Ladakh

Darcha Padum Trek

Friday, January 29th, 2010

One of the most important cross state treks, the Darcha Padum trek , is a challenging trek. It takes along the fascinating journey from Darcha in Himachal Pradesh to Padum in Zanskar, connecting to incredible trekking adventures of India. lTrekking in Ladakh

In this trek one of the most popular and most beautiful regions of Ladakh which is called the Zanskar range is explored. It also gives a chance to visit the most famous and remote monastery of Ladakh in Zanskar region, the Phuktal gompa which is otherwise not accessible by road and thus very less visited.

The Darcha Padum trek, a must on the trekker’s wish list is an exigent Himalayan adventure trek in an exotic land of ancient kingdoms, high mountain passes and unforgettable landscapes. The trek to Darcha Padum through Ladakh and Zanskar takes one through the many Zanskar villages and various monasteries therein. A slow ascent up to the pass and then a steep descent to the Tsarap River brings one right into the heart of the Zanskar- a major center of Buddhism.

The main highlight of Darcha Padum trek is its remote, barren and rugged landscape which is also the home to some of the best wildlife in Ladakh. Spectacular rock formations and clear blue mountain streams are irresistibly attractive.  The steep passes, deep gorges, and several river crossing make it one of the most difficult treks.The trail follows the river most of the way and transverses through Chalang Tokpa, Ramjak, Chumikanakpo, Lakong, Kurgiak, Purne and finally to Padum.

Lovely high meadow camp sites and dry desert land, high passes and  snow-capped peaks stunning scenery, Buddhist monasteries and picturesque villages with their irrigated fields of barley and potatoes, and fascinating encounters with the people of Zanskar makes the trek to Darcha Padum an unforgettable experience. Change of Himalayan topography and profile is quite evident in this trek which is one of the key reasons that makes Darcha Padum the most interesting trek of the region.

The best time to explore this trek is from June to September.

Adventure Tour Company in India offering special tour packages for Ladakh Monastery Trek- a Tourists’ Draw

Monday, January 11th, 2010

Brimming with options for adventures and sightseeing, the Ladakh Monastery Trek let you explore the famous monasteries which are the unique flavor and beauty of the region. Ladakh Monastery trek

The presence of Himalayan peaks and Karakoram Mountains in the Ladakh region gives an unrivaled chance to trekkers to endeavor trekking thrills. Adventure Tour Companies in India like Peak Adventure Tour offer special packages for trekking in Ladakh.

Abundance of Buddhist Monasteries spread in almost every village makes this region an artistic hub. Ladakh monasteries have always been the center of religious, economic and political functions. They are a living institution.

The Ladakh Monastery Trek includes a visit to the famous Buddhist Gompas of the Leh Ladakh region. Almost all the gompas follow a code of architecture. The interior is divided into several halls of which Du- Khang; the main prayer hall is most spacious. Apart from this a Gompa also has dwelling cells, library and a large courtyard where dances and other ceremonies are performed. The most appropriate time for this trek is from June to October.

The famous gompas of the region are Lamayuru gompa, Alchi gompa, Hemis gompa, Leh gompa. Monks live and preach in these gompas. The main monk called the Lama leads the prayers.

“A total of 120 lamas live here. We have one-hour traditional prayers daily. Apart from that we have five-six large-scale festive prayers. We have a mask dance as well,” said Lobzang Dechan, a Lama.

Pilgrims from all over Ladakh throng the place for the main festival of Gustor held at the end of February.

For more visit http://www.trekkinginladakh.com/ladakh-monastery-trek.html

For more information contact Peak Adventure Tour 91-120-4052615-99, 91-9811636814/9810352536

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.

Experience the Thrill and Adventure of Ladakh

Tuesday, December 29th, 2009

Ladakh is a perfect holiday destination, at the same time it offers a wide range of adventure expeditiLadakh Adventureon to the tourists visiting India. Generally, people visiting here look forward to some fun filled activities and also want to enjoy the beauty of the serene nature of the cold desert, famous for its colourful fairs and festivals. So if you are one of those who like trekking, rafting, biking, mountaineering or camping then pack your bags with enough warm clothes, a medical kit, lots of dehydrating liquid and off course do not forget those sun glasses and moisturising lotions.

Being situated in a remote place in northern India, Ladakh falls within altitude ranging between 2,750 meters to 25,170 meters. Here maximum daytime temperature during summers is 27 degree Centigrade and minus 20 degree Centigrade in winters. What else can a travel enthusiast visiting here ask for? It certainly gives a satisfying experience to a nature lover.

Majority of the tourists come here for trekking but getting acclimatized to the climatic condition first, in this high altitude region becomes very essential for the first timers as well as the regulars. So do spend some time visiting the monasteries in the region of Leh to slowly allow your body to adapt to the change.

Being situated in the mighty Himalan range Ladakh offers some of the highest mountain passes in the world to the trekkers. The major trekking routes of Ladakh are Kargil Region, Ladakh-Zanskar Trekking, Indus Valley Trek and Tso Moriri Lake Trekking. The trekking season is ideally between August to early September though if you want to have the most unique trekking experience then Chadar trek in Ladakh could be the ideal option. The best time to enjoy Chaddar trek could be between January and Mid-March. Trekking is just one of a kind adventure sport that every fun-loving traveler would love but it is most essential to be physically fit and strong before undertaking these treks.

Adding to all these, if you are looking for more adventure then river rafting in Ladakh is something you should definitely give a try and better not ignore it. This place is an ultimate spot for river rafting. Here most of the rivers and its tributaries are known for gentle floating, as well as for the thrilling white water rafting. Some of the major river rafting routes in Ladakh is Phey to Nimo, Nimo to Alchi, Upshi to Kharu, Phey to Saspol, Kharu to Spituk, Saspol to Khaltsey, and Hemis to Choglamsar Bridge.
In winters tourists trek on the frozen river from Nimo to Karsha but, it should be kept in mind that this water sport require special skill and the rafter need to be expert before trying hands in this adventure. A highly secure arrangement for rescue coverage is an important pre- requisite before embarking upon a white-water expedition on a river.

When it comes to biking- be it motor bike or simple sports bike, Ladakh proves to be an unbeatable destination. Biking can be done usually in the months of October-December and late June/July to August. It generally involves a 12 to 13-day bike ride, which takes you to the steep hills, astounding glaciers and snow-capped Himalayan ranges.

Rohtang pass, Lahaul valley, Keylong, Darcha, Tanglang La (world’s second highest Pass), Lachung La, Baralach La and Khardung La, are all popular routes travelled by bikers in Ladakh. Another famous route frequently travelled is the 520 km long Manali-Leh route also known as the Army Road. The challenging ride begins with the climb to Baralcha after the Manali-Leh route as the altitude increases. The toughest part of the ride is the climb to Lachung La. Continuing for a couple of days you will reach your destination, Leh.  Do not forget to visit the Thiksey and Shey Monasteries just before Leh. Basic bike repairing equipments like tire levers, pump, patch tubes, chain tool, crescent wrench, duct tape, cables, brake pads, crank remover and spare spokes are most likely to come handy while on a long ride.

Though new, today tourism in Ladakh is gaining popularity among visitors from across the world. So, this season you must travel to this Himalayan region of India as it often surpasses the best in the world.