Garhwal

Top 5 Winter Trekking Destinations in India

Friday, April 16th, 2010

India is a country filled with a wide array of culture, history, and the most breathtaking mountainous and desert ranges in the world. It is not just a country that offer beach or wildlife holidays, but there are much more to explore and enjoy different adventure holidays in this country, especially in the winter months. During the winter season that generally starts from October to February, winter trekking adventure tour is one of the most preferred packages that tourist generally look for. Perhaps winter trekking in India is one of the most preferred adventure activities that have gained enough recognition in recent times. In fact, with the changing times interests of tourists have also changed, and many of them are looking for adventure tourism. Local as well as international tourists are constantly looking for some thrill and winter trekking in India is just turning out to be the most ideal option.Chopta Chandrashila Trek

Today trekking in India can be an ultimate experience as it features different winter trekking destinations. In addition to this, there are several mountain ranges of India that can offer breathtaking and enchanting trekking routes in winter seasons. In fact, in the vast amphitheatre of the Indian Himalayas and Karakorams, there are numerous possibilities for trekking and adventure tours. Nevertheless, in case if you are looking for winter trekking in India and experience some of most chilling experience then here are famous trek that you must think of:

1. Chopta Chandrashila Trek – This is one of the most beautiful and picturesque winter trekking spots in India that has always pulled the attention of many adventure seekers. Offering the breathtaking snow view of the Himalayas, trekking on this route is treating for the eyes as well as soul. While Chopta is situated on the Gopeshwar – Ukhimath road at a distance of about 40 Kms, Chandrashila summit is popular trek that offer the most beautiful view of the Trishul, Kedar Peak, Nandadevi and Chaukhamba peaks.

2. Dodital Trek – At an elevation of 3307 meters above mean sea level, in the north of Uttarakashi , this is a precise winter trekking destination in India that holds potential for adventure experience. Trekking on this Dodital trek can provide you opportunity to pass through the thick forests of Oak, Rhododendron, Fir and Deodar. Adding to this, as this trekking route is very rich in flora and fauna, here you can enjoy the beautiful views of Garhwal Himalayas as well.

3. Frozen River Trek- Winter trekking on the Frozen River trek can be yet another exciting option that you must experience if you love winter trekking. The most unique feature of this trek is it lies into some of the most isolated yet inhabited regions in the Zanskar Mountains. This trek follows the river gorge through a spectacular landscape, a photographer’s paradise and even offer occasional sighting of wildlife. However, the important point that one need to take care of is the weather conditions.  It may be very pleasant and clear but the weather conditions can change drastically with wind temperatures known to plummet minus 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.

4. Snow Leopard Trek – This trek of high passes stands at a height 4,600 meters in the outer Himalayas with its peaks, ranging from 5,800 to 7,600 meters forming the most striking feature of the area. The most unique part of winter trekking on the Snow Leopard trek is it provides you opportunity to even visit the nearby Hemis National Park, which is a high altitude protected area created in year 1981. The park is full of dry forests of juniper, birch and fir that are found in the park area. Also present are the alpine grasslands and scrublands.

5. Kedar Kantha Trek – This famous trekking route located in the north of Uttrakhand state and covers an area of 958 Sq. Kms. The altitude in the area varies from 1300 to 6000 meters, makes it more appropriate option to enjoy the trekking.

These are some of the most famous winter trekking routes that you must not ignore if you are looking forward to outdoor adventure activity like trekking. No doubt, today India is an extraordinary country filled with numerous tourist sites.

Top Destinations for Adventure Trekking in India

Wednesday, March 10th, 2010

Looking forward for thrilling and fun filled adventure tours that are different from your daily routine? Ever thought about what it would be like trekking in the Himalayas in India? Well, in case you too want to explore the mighty Himalayas, plan an adventure travel in India next time you want to go for an adventure trip. However, try to make your trip Eco friendly so that in future other adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy similar Himalayan treks.Adventure in India

Adventure tourism in India specially trekking in Himalayas is increasingly gaining popularity in the recent times. Popular trekking routes in Garhwal, Ladakh, Sikkim and Himachal are visited by numerous trekkers in the peak trekking season between the months of April to November, however some routes are open only for a couple of months every year. So plan your trip meticulously keeping in mind the local terrains, weather conditions, permits available and other essential requirements before trekking in India.

Trekking in Garhwal, Uttarakhand is considered to be the biggest challenge for the trekkers because it has some of the highest mountain peaks of the world. You must be highly physically fit to be successfully able to trek here. Besides trekking, you can even indulge yourself in other adventure sporting activities like camping, river rafting, skiing and motor biking.

Trekking in Himachal takes place mainly in the Chamba & Manali and Kullu & Lahaul regions. The four mountain ranges, Dhaula Dhar, Pir Panjal, Himalayas and Zanskar almost run parallel to one another in Himachal Pradesh thus creating challenging passes for the trekkers. You will easily get mesmerized by the lovely landscape of the region. Various grades of treks are available in Himachal Pradesh to attract first timers as well as expert trekkers.

Trekking in Sikkim is common due to the presence of unusual trekking routes. The Kanchenjunga Trek is the most beautiful trekking route, where you can spot beautiful sights of Mount Everest and stunning view of the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga. Trekking here is enjoyed the most when done in spring and autumn. However, you should be well prepared for erratic weather conditions here since Sikkim receives unpredictable snow storms.

Trekking in Ladakh & Zanskar in Jammu and Kashmir offers some wonderful trekking trails in Northern India that you must surely visit. Trekking routes here are setup between worlds two of the highest mountain ranges, Himalaya and Karakoram. You can even plan to go for biking and mountaineering after trekking in Ladakh. The best time to go for a trekking tour in Ladakh in between July and September.

The Himalayan range is considered to be the best for trekking in India since it takes one closer to the serene nature. When you come here for an adventure trip you will feel satisfied and certainly want to return here again as this place gives you a combination of both adventure and pleasure.

Source: Ezine

Gangotri Tapovan Trek 2010 Fixed Departure Dates Disclosed by Peak Adventure Tour

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010

Peak Adventure Tour, is a leading name in the adventure travel industry who gives value added services to adventure freaks. For the year 2010 Peak Adventure Tour is pleased to announce fixed departure dates to the famous trek to Gangotri Tapovan.

The Gangotri Tapovan Trek is an adventurous trek of the Garhwal region of India where the holy river Ganga emerges from the Gangotri glacier. This is a very adventurous trek that involves mountain climbing and glacier traverse with fabulous views of some of the famous peaks of the Indian Himalayas.

Dates revealed by Peak Adventure Tour are May- 1, 14, 21, 28 June-11 & 18, July 23, August-13 & 20 and September- 3, 10, 17, 24

“The dates which have been announced start from the month of May and last till the month of September. Ranging between a periods of five months, these dates have been decided according to the suitability of the travelers”, says Arun Joshi, head at Peak Adventure Tour .

The Gangotri Tapovan Trek follows the Ganges to its source at the massive Gaumukh glacier, which somewhat resembles the mouth of a cow. (Gau-mukh implies the cow’s mouth in Hindi). Further up from Gaumukh is Tapovan, a trekker’s paradise and base for many challenging mountaineering expeditions.

About Gangotri Tapovan Trek

Region: Garhwal Himalayas

Altitude: 4090 mts/13415 ft

Duration: 12 Days

Altitude: (4463 mts /14638 ft)

Season: May – June & August – Mid Oct

Grade: Moderate to tough

Group size: Maximum: 12 People plus leader

Minimum: 4 People plus Indian Leader

The Detailed Itinerary is as follows:

Day 01: Arrive Delhi

Day 02: Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh

Day 03: Rishikesh – Uttarkashi (170 kms/4-5 hrs)

Day 04: Uttarkashi – Gangotri (3048 m/ 10,000 ft) Drive (95 kms).

Day 05: Gangotri (3048 mts/10000 ft) -Bhojwassa (3792 mts/12440 ft) 13 kmstrek/5-6 hrs)

Day 06: Bhojwassa – Gomukh (3890 mts/12760 ft) – Tapovan (4463 mts / 14640 ft)

Day 07: Tapovan (4463 mts / 14640 ft)

Day 08: Tapovan – Bhojwassa (Trek 4-5 hrs)

Day 09: Bhojwassa – Gangotri (Trek 4-5hrs)

Day 10: Gangotri – Uttarkashi

Day 11: Uttarkashi – Haridwar – Delhi

Day 12: Delhi Departure

The trip will  end at this point

More and the latest information about the Gangotri Tapovan Trek can be taken from the official website of Peak Adventure Tour http://www.peakadventuretour.com/

Roopkund Trek

Monday, January 25th, 2010

Roopkund, situated at an altitude of 5029 m in the district of Chamoli in Garhwal, is often called a mystery lake. Situated in the lap of the Trishul Massif, the Roopkund Trek is hidden below a crest on the edge of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
Roopkund Trek
Roopkund Trek is famous for the mysterious shallow lake of about 2 meters with the edges covered with snow almost throughout the year and came into limelight when a large number of human skeletons and remains of horses were discovered there. With various theories claiming that the bones belonged to a party of pilgrims on a yatra to Homkund who got killed in a landslide. The other is that they are the remains of soldiers who had been on a mission to Tibet.

The Trek to Roopkund passes through lush green grassy land and conifer forests which cling into the slope of hills. The trek thereafter winds its way along the river. During Roopkund Trekking one can enjoy the view of Himalayan peaks Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and Badrinath. Bedni Bugyal and Bhagwawasa are the most beautiful places in this trek. Roopkund Trekking gives a beautiful experience to the adventure seekers in the shadow of the giant Nanda Ghungti (6310 m), Changabang (6864 m) and Trishul (7120 m) peaks. The trek passes through far-flung villages, forests and flower clad meadows.

The best time to visit the Roopkund Trek is from last week of August to last week of October. The starting point of the trek is lohajung, easily approached by motor from Almora. Roopkund can also be reached by ghat, connected by a motorable road with Nanda Prayag situated on the main highway of Badrinath.

High-up in the Himalayas, the Roopkund Trek is surrounded by rock-strewn glacier and snow clad peaks, is a marvelous sight. This mystifying Lake is nestled amidst panoramic scenic views.

Trek to Valley of Flowers

Tuesday, January 12th, 2010

Trekking in the Indian Himalayas has become a lifetime event to remember for all adventure enthusiasts. It not only has difficult treks for professional trekkers but also relatively easier ones to attract first time trekkers. Moreover with tourist infrastructure on a boom, advanced trekking equipments and clothes are being manufactured, thus enabling treks to any part of the Himalayas a relatively easy trip. So if you are planning a fun filled adventure trip to India, trekking in Garhwal (Uttarakhand), to the valley of flowers will be the best option for you. Valley of Flowers

This Valley Of Flowers, also known as the India National Park is located in Chamoli Garhwal in the Western Himalayas. Being situated at an altitude that varies between 10,500 feet to 21,900 this stunning landscape comes alive in the monsoon season. Also famous for its rare natural beauty this area is home to animals like the Asiatic black bear, blue sheep, snow leopard and brown bear which have become very rare and scarce in the recent times.

How to reach

Trek to Valley of Flowers requires a totals journey of about 17 km. Its nearest town Joshimath (Garhwal) has good road connections from stations of Haridwar and Dehradun. From the town of Joshimath, a vehicle can be easily hired to make an hour’s journey to the nearby habitat of Gobindghat.

While travelling from Joshimath to the Valley of Flowers, you will find the main road that goes to Badrinath. Almost in the midway of this main road a minor road branches off to Gobindghat considered to be the starting point of the Valley. Once you have reached so far a trek of another 14 km along steep, narrow yet well defined mountain track will take you to base camp at Ghangaria, a small settlement from where the Valley is just about 3km away. This journey from Gobindghat to Ghangaria can be travelled between 4 to 8 hours, off course this depends on your level of fitness! The valley of flowers now starts over with the gorgeous site of Pushpawati River.

When to visit

Trekking in the valley of flowers can be done between the months of April to October, though the best time to visit is just after the first monsoon rain in the month of July to August. It is in the monsoons that The Valley is covered with fully blossomed flowers. Usually in the rest of the year the place is covered with snow with hardly any flowers around the park.
Visiting hours for trekking in the valley of flowers have been restricted to daytime (from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and camping is strictly prohibited. This is mainly done so that park does not bear too much toll due to trekkers and other livestock.

Travel tips

A trekking trip to The Valley of Flowers requires an exhausting hike but one completed you’ll feel on top of the world due to its majesty and charm. You should make sure that you pack abundant clothes just in case it rains on the way. Also carry sufficient food with you to last the entire hike. Along with these it is always better to book an accommodation in advance in Gobindghat or Ghangaria.

Other major attractions

The popular trekking destination of Hemkund is about 19 km away from Govindghat. Also to be found here is a high altitude lake named Hemkund (4329 m). The sacred Sikh Gurudwara, Hemkund Saheb near this lake attracts tourists due to its beauty and cultural importance. Next attractive place is Joshimath, famous for the temples of Nav Durga and Narsingh. This 8th century popular centre for pilgrims is also the base for trekking to the Valley Of Flowers. Lastly the holy Hindu town of Badrinath (14 kilometers) from Joshimath can also be visited easily on a day’s trip from the valley.

Mountain Biking-Conjugations of human spirits and Adventure leads to Unforgettable Experiences

Wednesday, January 6th, 2010

Adventure is one such element; urge of which is ever-increasing and doesn’t degrade with time. With the passage of time, the spark illuminates at much higher intensity. This is the reason why many modern-day nomads and adventure junkies loiter in search of places that could really excite them to the fullest. India has been a major source of destinations proffering fascinating treks, brawny mountains, challenging weather and some real fun. Places like Leh-Ladakh, Sikkim, Garhwal and the burly Himalayan ranges provide apt surroundings to put limits at stake. Nowadays mountain biking is fast emerging as one of the most liked adventure activities amongst adrenaline junkies as the sport appeals to their adventure preferences and is challenging on the physical grounds. Mountain Biking

The northern portion of India is really a treat for these adventure enthusiasts and stand class apart in offering steep routes and testing weather to try mountain biking at level best. Every year, vacationers in large troupes flock to places like Garhwal, Ladakh, Himachal and many more places to get their thirst for adventure satisfied. The mountainous regions of India are full of long downhills and grueling uphills that lead to highly demanding tracks for bikers.  The straight stretches, sections of hike and bike and sections of fast paced gravel roads all together contributes to bone chilling mountain biking experience. There is a little bit of everything for riders of all initiations, besides just dirt roads and single tracks.

Bone Chilling Experience of Mountain Biking in Himalayas

If you are looking for the fervor of challenging the climbs and some of the best sliding for mountain biking in the world then Himalayan ranges in India is the answer for you. Set amongst ever-changing and splendidly thriving scenery, Himalayan ranges offers some hard to beat tracks for the adventure lovers. In a nutshell, mountain biking trips in Himalayas focus on those who are born to be wild.

Discover the Real Essence of Mountain Biking in the Trans Himalayan Ranges

Trans Himalayan region of India or the Garhwal and Kumaon region is an apt destination for trying your caliber at mountain biking. The steep routes, mountainous terrains and valleys offering amazing routes, together makes mountain biking, an enjoyable sport.

Unveil the Chilling Experience of Mountain Biking in the Lap of Kanchenjanga

Mountain biking in Sikkim that too in the lap of Kanchenjanga can be highly elevating and enjoyable. Scaling heights measuring 8,500 meters, the Kanchenjanga stands tall as the third highest mountain in the world. Mountain biking session in Sikkim takes you through the lush sub-tropical rain forests right into the highest terrain of the earth and through the picturesque meadows, rural villages and impressive hillsides. Moreover, the biker will be able to get glimpses of outstanding monasteries of the Rumtek, Pemayangtse, and Dubdi.

Mountain biking in the amazing Kangra Valley of Himachal

While mountain biking in Himachal, a biker will get a lifetime opportunity of experiencing the real fun. Kangra, a small town situated 17 km from Dharamshalas and overlooking the gushing torrent Ban-Ganga, proffers excellent routes and eye-catching scenery along side during biking.

The adventure tours spend and enjoyed in India leaves unforgettable memories and affect the hectic schedules in a great way in the sense that people are left relaxed and tranquilized. Several travel agencies are stepping in the domain as every season; people yearning for adventure and flocking to India are increasing in noticeable amount. For them, India is fast emerging as the sole destination offering ways to satiate their hunger for adventure as well as source of peace and tranquility.

Discover the Real Adventure Between the Invincible Statures of the Garhwal Himalayas

Wednesday, December 16th, 2009

India has become one of the most sought after destinations for adventure lovers. Be it the mountainous terrains, camouflaging greenery or the hypnotic sand dunes – India has it all to stimulate your hidden adventurous desires. One such treat is Himalayas, the compelling altitudes of which have captured the nerves of numerous adrenaline junkies from across the globe. Encapsulating a couple of peaks, Garhwal Himalayan ranges are the most likeKedarnath Snow Trekkingable and sought after amongst travelers.

Snow-clad mountains like Bithartoli-Himal (6354 m), Nanda Ghunti (6309 m), Ranthi Peak (6003 m) to name a few alternative options for people in search of an escapade in the lap of Garhwal Himalayan ranges. Moreover, trekking in Nanda Devi, one of the famous and tallest peaks in Garhwal offers the adventure lovers, a chance to have a view of ethereal beauty of Auli bugyals, Urgam valley and Lata village and forests of Rhododendron, Birch and Fir. Moreover, the mountainous terrains are just apt for offering climbers a fair chance to scale heights and to put one’s limits to test.

Additionally, the Garhwal Himalayas have Dodital Trek routes that are flocked by adventure lovers all across the globe. Situated at an altitude of 3024 meters above mean sea level, Dodital is amidst the beautiful locales of north of Uttarakashi. The entire land of Dodital is surrounded by crystal clear water and all surrounded by dense Oak Woods, Pine, Deodar and Rhododendrons. Another place of interest is Roop Kund that proffers mysterious and fascinating trekking routes.

Vacationers are left spell bound with the unmatched beauty of the Garhwal region. Other places adding to the charm include Har Ki Dun. Reckoned as one of the most famous trekking destination, the place is located in the western Garhwal Himalayas, at the base of Fateh Parvat. The entire place is bordered by dense forests of pine, deodar and other coniferous trees. The major snow covered peaks that can be viewed from here are Swarga-Rohini, Bandarpunch and Kala Nag.

Other beautiful features are Rhododendron valley, which is a paragon of ethereal gorgeousness and which provides vacationers ample scope to test their climbing caliber. While the Garhwal Himalayas attract the attention of adventure aficionados, a really tough physique and a good fitness level are the prime requirements for achieving success in hiking.

So if you are planning a trip to the Himalayas, go for Garhwal Himalayan ranges,as this is the only way through which you can witness and experience the natural beauty and the testing conditions there. All you need to have is a strong mind, determination, a nice tour package and the company of your loved ones, which could ultimately catapult your escapade into a memorable one.