Trekking

« Older Entries

Discover the amazing adventure of trekking in the lap of Nanda Devi

Tuesday, July 20th, 2010

India is highly blessed to have several beautiful mountain peaks in her lap. Nanda Devi is one such scenic grandeur present in Garhwal Himalayas. Description of Nanda Devi on papers is not only difficult but it would also be a sheer injustice to its scenery. So, plan a Nanda Devi trek and see for yourself profound beauty unfolding in front of your eyes.

Nanda Devi trekking has always managed to attract fun enthusiasts and adventure lovers from all over the world. The steep roads of this mountain region are surrounded with Rhododendron, Birch and Fir forests making trekking along these routes even more exciting. For those who are in search of an escapade, the snow-clad mountains of Bithartoli-Himal, Nanda Ghunti and Ranthi Peak offer the perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Trekking in Nanda Devi also offers you a chance to get a view of the ethereal beauty of Auli Bugyals, Urgam Valley and Lata village.

Some of the fantastic trekking routes in Nanda Devi that you should visit while you are in India for an adventure travel are: Nanda Devi Trek, Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek and Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek.

Nanda Devi Trek

Nanda Devi is the best choice for satiating your craving for adventure and fun, all because of its scaling height and beautiful valley of Rhododendron flowers. The trek takes a couple of days and along the route encompasses a whole lot of places like Bageshwar, Munar, Mikila, Mikila, Rajkharak, Rajkharak, Namik Village, Namik Village, Thalthok, Thalthok, Sudamkhan Pass and Bhuyadabli that are epitome of beauty and splendor. Trekking here will also give you the opportunity to experience the fun-filled base camps in Lwan, ND East Base Camp and Martoli to name a few.

Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

The Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek traces its route through the Jauher Valley. This valley is situated on the fringes of Nanda Devi Sanctuary and gives magnificent glimpses of famous peaks such as the Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot. Passing through villages and meadows, the trek then moves along the Gori Ganga River. Some of the other places of interest are Almora, Munsyari, Lilam, Bugdiar, Rilkot and Ghangar.

Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek

Nanda Devi Sanctuary Trek is one of the most attractive destinations of the Himalayas that attract both, wildlife enthusiasts as well as adventure lovers from all over the world. Trekking here you will see the Kuari Pass, the Nanda Devi, the Changabang, the Doonagiri and the Kamet.

Visiting the Nanda Devi trek will also give you the opportunity to encounter various rare wildlife animals of India. About 83 different species of animals have been reported from this reserve including common Himalayan black Bear, Common Leopard, Himalayan Thar, snow Leopard, Bharal, brown Bear, Mainland Serow, Goral and Musk Deer, Langoor. In addition to this, a total of 114 bird species have also been reported which includes birds like Grosbeak, Crested Black Tit, Rose Finch, Yellow-bellied Fantail Flycatcher, Nutcracker, Orange-Flanked Bush Robin, Ruby Throat, Monal, Himalaya Crow and many more. Interestingly, you also will find several rare plants and valuable medicinal herbs in this park.

The inner part of this sanctuary is closed for visitor even today. You would need special permit from Indian Home Ministry to visit this zone. It will be better if you get in touch with a reputed tour operator that will not only plan your trip to Nanda Devi but also help you obtain the permit from the government faster.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Trekking, nanda devi trek | No Comments »

Adi Kailash Trek

Monday, July 12th, 2010

Mt. Adi Kailash is popularly known as Chhota-Kailash. It is located in Indian territory, very close to the Indo-Tibet border. This region is a place of great natural beauty, serenity and sovereignty. Those tired of the incessant roar of urban life, will find this place to be a spiritually healing quietude. Visit India for Adi Kailash trek and get an experience of a lifetime.

During Adi Kailash trek in Kumaun Himalayas, you will come across the mighty grandeur of the snow covered peaks of Annapurna, the gushing Kali River, number of waterfalls, thick forests, Narayan Ashram full of wild flowers and rare variation of fruit gardens. The famous Om Parvat, a miracle of nature, is clearly visible at a distance from here. Snow lies on this Om Parvat in the shape of a perpetual “OM”, the primordial sound of Hindu prayers.

At the foot of mountain Kailash is situated Gauri Kund, whose water is a reflection of the beauty of the mountain itself. Another water body close by is called Parvati Sarovar. Also known as ‘Mansarovar’ this place houses a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati that you must visit for spiritual solace.

Adi Kailash has a village named ‘Kunti’. This village has been named after the mother of Pandavas, characters from the great epic Mahabharata. It is a common belief that the renowned sage, Ved Vyas who wrote Mahabharata lived here for a long time.

The locals living in Adi Kailash are known as Bhotias. The Bhotias have preserved their ancestral heritage throughout all these years and are always ready to showcase glimpses of their tradition through dance and music shows. You will simply love interacting with these people and hear interesting stories of their land.

Adi Kailash is a very exciting trekking region. You should visit here from July to September which is considered to be the best time for this type of adventure tour in India. Trekking here not only involves walking along large portions of the Kailas – Mansarovar route, but also interacting, understand and learning the social and cultural life of the locals living in the Chaudans, Darma and Byans valleys.

Your journey for Adi Kaillash trek will usually begin and end at Tawaghat, a place popular for being the confluence of the river Kali and Dhauli in district Pithoragarh. Since Adi Kailash is situated at a height of 12,000-14,000 feet above sea level, cold winds blow here in the daytime as well as in the evening. Trekking region like this is occasionally accompanied with bad weather so you should not ignore light, wind proof, water repellant and warm clothing. Last but not the least; do not forget to carry all necessary trekking equipments for this strenuous trek.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Adi Kailash Trek, Adventure, Trekking | No Comments »

Pindari Glacier- A Popular Trek in Kumaon Himalayas

Friday, June 18th, 2010

The Pindari Glacier is the source of Pindari valley. It has been attracting nature lovers and trekkers from all across the world because of its amazing rugged beauty, breathtaking sight and easy trekking routes. Experience its pristine glory and at the same time trek in one of the most popular trekking routes present in India, when you holiday here the next time.

Pindari Glacier is indeed an ultimate place for adventure travel in India. Lying in the Bageshwar district, this glacier is among the most easily accessible trek of all other Himalayan treks that India boasts of. Terminating at a height of 3627 M, Pindari glacier stretches between the Nandakot peaks and the Nanda Devi situated in the Pindar valley. The beautiful Pindar River flows through the sedimentary rocks of the region before descending towards the plains. You will find here that the Pindar River has carved out a 10 Km long gorge on both sides of the thick glacial deposit of the mountain.

Trekking in Pindari glacier begins from the Saung base-camp. From Saung you have to trek a distance of 3 Km to reach Loharkhet. From here you will then move towards Dhakuri, Khati, Dwali, Phurkia and finally to Pindari Glacier. The entire distance is 45 Km long so you need to be highly fit and carry with you necessary clothing and food to last the entire trek.

Some of the prominent peaks that you will encounter while trekking in Pindari glacier are the Balijuri, the Panwalidwar, the Nanda Khat, the Changuch and the Nanda Kot. Pindari glacier trek will also take you to the pristine village of Loharkhet. Here you can climb up the beautiful Dhakuri pass and enjoy its scenic beauty. Moving down hill towards the village of Khati, you can see the snow clad Himalayan peak from a distance.

The best time for trekking in the Pindari Glacier is between the months of May to October. The Saung base-camp can be easily reached from Bageshwar, Almora and Kathgodam. The nearest airport is in Pant Nagar and the nearest railhead is in Kathgodam. If you want to travel by road Bageshwar will be the best choice since it is well-connected by road with all other major cities of Uttarakhand.

Above all, trekking in Pindari glacier is an exciting mix of pleasure, adventure and self realization. The natural beauty of Pindari Glacier cannot be explained in words. You need to be there to feel it yourself. So pack your bags to travel to Pindari glacier!

Source: Ezine

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Adventure, Pindari Glacier, Trekking | No Comments »

Top 5 Family Treks in India

Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010

Planning an adventure travel in India with your family? There are plenty of easy trekking options in India where you can take your family for a vacation. Although previous family trekking and camping experience will be highly helpful, nevertheless with the help of experienced kid-friendly guides you can easily trek in India.

Here are five of the easy treks in India that you and your family can set out, on your next holidays in India. These treks assure safe, fun and a memorable holiday experience.

Bedni Bugyal Trek

Bedni Bugyal is one of the finest and largest meadows in Uttrakhand, India. Vast acres of lush meadow can be found lying in between the mountains. A little above you can also find the enormous western flank of Trishul.

Chopta Chandrashila Trek

This is one of the popular treks that you and your family can easily undertake any time of the year, except when it heavily snows during the months of December to January. You will view the beautiful Nandadevi peak, Kedar Peak, Trishul peak and Chaukhamba peaks while trekking in this route.

The Chandrashila summit lies above the Tungnath temple. You can make a short halt in this temple before beginning trekking with your family.

Har ki Doon Trek

Har ki Doon is a cradle shaped valley and is a paradise for trekkers, bird watchers and nature lovers. Glittering mountain peaks and dense pine forests surround this valley. Moreover, the whole valley looks absolutely colorful during the flowering season in monsoon.

Har ki Doon trek is located at an altitude of 3,556 M, at the base of Fetch Pravat. This trek will take you to one of the least explored Garhwal Himalayan regions. The best time to go for this trek is between June to October as during the rest of the year, the region remains either very cold or very wet. These extreme conditions are not good if you are travelling with your children.

Dayara Bugyal Trek

The Dayara Bugyal is a very beautiful place situated in Uttarakhand, India. Ranging between 10000 to 12000 Ft in height, the beauty of this vast meadow is second to none. If you visit this place during winters, your children will be able to ski over this vast 28 Sq Km area. Besides the breathtaking view of Himalayas there is also a small lake called the Barnala Tal in this area. Enjoy camping by the side of this lake.

Spituk Trek

You can begin the Spituk Stok trek either from Spituk or Stok village. However, many people prefer starting from the Spituk monastery. This is the only trek around Leh which is easily accessible from the starting to the finishing point. You will cross several villages besides a pass, named the Stok La, on your way.

This trek is surely the one for you and your family because it is a relatively short and offers fantastic panoramic view of the Ganda La pass, at 5000m.

Finally, when you are trekking in India, you and your family will get the best opportunity to meet the friendly local people. You get to know their Himalayan life. This will be a good learning experience for your children.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Adventure, Bedni Bugyal Trek, Chopta Chandrashila Trek, Dayara Bugyal Trek, Har ki Doon Trek, Spituk Trek, Trekking | No Comments »

A Real Adventure and Amazing Travel Experience of Markha Valley Trek in India

Tuesday, May 25th, 2010

The Markha Valley is one of the most beautiful trekking valleys in the region of Ladakh. This green oasis gives a breath taking view of the snow capped Korakoram Mountains. Famous due to Markha Valley Trek, this region offers travel enthusiasts an enthralling short trekking trip along the high passes of the beautiful mountains surrounded with deep gorges and arid landscapes. Covered with bright colors of mustard and barley plants this place offers spectacular views of the Indian subcontinent to the tourists in a Ladakh trek. So if you are one of those who want to explore to the limits an adventure tour in India, this Himalayan region known as the “Little Tibet” is the best place to be.

The real adventure and amazing travel experience of Markha Trek in India is sensed when you face some of the core daredevil challenges thrown by this uneven terrain situated at 5, 150 m of height. The more physically fit you are, the more you will enjoy Markha Valley Treking in India. Adding to this, the Markha Valley trekking tour in India even has much more to offer. Perhaps, the place even provides numerous opportunities where you can indulge yourself in numerous options and have maximum excitement.

Since winters in Ladakh are extremely cold with maximum temperature being fifteen degrees Celsius, the best time for you to do Markha Valley trek is between the months of September to December. You should make sure to pack your bags with sufficient medicines, food and warm clothing to last the entire trekking trip since you may not find these essentials once you have started the trek. If you purchase one of the adventure tour packages, make sure they provide you with all necessary camping equipments needed while hiking on the Markha Valley Trek.

Your tour of India in Himalayan region is just incomplete without experiencing the real adventure of Markha Valley Trekking. This place can definitely give you the ultimate experience of some of the roughest trekking tours at the backdrop of most serene and exuberating nature. Moreover, the presence of local Buddhist cultures and the colorful Buddhist monasteries will further add up to the memories of your adventure tour of India which you will cherish through out your entire life.

Source: Ezine

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Adventure, Ladakh, Markha Valley Trek, Trekking | 1 Comment »

Top 5 Moderate Treks in India

Saturday, May 22nd, 2010

The Himalayan range offers trekking routes for all abilities. If you are one of those who have a sturdy pair of legs and a determination to discover, trekking in India happens to be the safest and most enjoyable option for you. Moreover, trekking in the Himalayas is the best way to connect with its pristine surroundings and local inhabitants who are oblivious of the changes taking place in the modern world.

The following are some of the moderate treks in India that you must try in your next adventure tour to India.

Dzongri Goecha La trek

The Goecha La Trek is one of the most famed treks in the north eastern state of Sikkim, India. Being the third highest peak in the world, Goecha La trek is famous for excellent snow clad mountain views. Additionally you can also spot rare birds in the pristine forests of the region.

The Goecha La Trek passes through the Kanchendzonga biosphere forest reserve. It begins from the beautiful hill station of Darjeeling and is a very adventurous trek in the beginning.

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Gaumukh Tapovan trek passes through the Garhwal region, via gangotri glacier at Gomukh. On the way you can see the Bhujbasa, the Sudarshan peak, the Matri peak and several other well known peaks. If you trek beyond Bhujbasa, you will have to climb a steep slope until you reach Tapovan. Not only this, you will also see the mind blowing Kedar, the Meru and the Bhagirathi. The best time to go for this trek is between the months of May to June and from mid September to early November.

Markha Valley Trek

Markha Valley Trek is possibly one of the most beautiful trekking routes in India that you can travel. For this you have to encircle two passes located at a height of more than 15000 feet. While on a Markha Valley Trek you will pass through incredibly beautiful gorges and mountains. You will also experience a whiff of spirituality by the Buddhist monasteries and the gompas. The best time to do Markha Valley trek is between the months of September and December.

Roopkund Trek

The Roopkund Lake is at a height of 5029 M. Located in the vicinity of Chaoli district, Roopkund Lake is covered in snow during most of the year. This is a moderate trek and the best time for you to do a Roopkund Trek is between the months of May and June.

Nubra Valley Trek

The Nubra Valley means the valley of flowers. It is situated in the north of Leh at an average altitude of about 10,000 Ft and is bordered by the Karakoram Range in the North. The main attraction that you will find in this area is the Bactarian Camels, which are a type of shaggy double hump Camel. They can be seen around sand dunes; Deskit & Samstanling monasteries and Khardung la Pass (the highest motorable road in the World). The best time to go for a Nubra Valley Trek is between June to October.

The Nubra Valley is also the gateway to the world’s largest glacier i.e. the Siachen Glacier.

Finally, the most important thing that you should keep in mind before setting on a moderate trekking in India is the fact that, the heavier pack you carry with yourself, the more difficult it is going to be for you to be successful in your voyage. So carry light, plan ahead and you will surely have one of the most memorable adventures of your life.

Source: Ezine

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Adventure, Dzongri, Gangotri, Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, Goecha La Trek, Ladakh, Markha Valley Trek, Sikkim, Trekking, roopkund trek | No Comments »

Top 5 Easy Treks in India

Wednesday, May 19th, 2010

With the presence of mighty Himalayas, trekking in India is an experience for lifetime. This is because along with enjoying the rugged beauty of the Himalaya’s, you also experience a mixture of pleasure, adventure and self- realization, while traveling through the mighty Himalayas and if you want to unveil the tedious lifestyle of the people residing in the mountainous terrains of the Himalayas, trekking in India is the best options for you.

In case you are not one of those regular adventure sports lover, but still want to trek the Himalayas, try one of these easy treks in India.

Sham Valley Trek

Sham Valley Trek is also known as a “Baby Trek” due to lower altitude. During this trek you will visit several spiritual monasteries, Apricot valley and landscapes in the neighborhood of Thiksey, Hemis, Spituk, Alchi and Lamayuru. You can visit the Likir monastery, the Indus Valley and the ancient kingdom of Sham. This trek is relatively easy because the maximum altitude that you have to travel is 4500 M.

As you move along the local communities in the Himalayas, you get the opportunity to be familiar with their hardship lifestyle. The best time to go on this trek is between mid June and October.

Chopta Chandrashila Trek

Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of the most fabulous treks of the Garhwal Himalayas. It can be easily taken any time of the year. You get to view the beautiful sight of snow capped Himalayas from the famous Chandrashila point on this trek. The best part of this trekking route is that you may even encounter snow fall during your trek which makes your trek.Chopta is also one of the most beautiful and picturesque spots in the whole Garhwal. The breathtaking view of the Himalayas is treating for the eyes as well as soul.

Dodital Trek

Dodital is a lake situated at a height of about (3307 10847 ft). This lake is surrounded by dense forests. The Himalayan Golden Trout, a type of fish, can be found aplenty in the clear crystal water of Dodital Lake. The best time to go on this trek is from mid March to October because this is the time when lush green meadows of the region are at its blossom due to the receding monsoons. In addition to this, the magnificent view of Himalayas is simply out of this world during these months. However you can also go on this trek any time of the year.

Dzongri Trek

Dzongri Trek at an altitude of 4020 M is another trek that you can easily take. Travelling a distance of 3983 M, you will get to see wonderful view of the Kanchenjunga and Mt. Pandim. The Dzongri trek runs through moss-laden forests of birch, oak, rhododendron, maple and bamboo. One can hit this trek from March to early June and September to mid of November.

Valley of flowers Trek:

Valley of flowers is like a fairy tale land busting with beautiful, lively and vibrant colored flowers. It is popular due to its largest collection of wild flora species. Go for this trek simply for the beautiful sight that it offers. Best time to do this trek from July to mid September.

These easy treks in India guarantee you a complete adventure travel in the Himalayan foothills. You can easily find several affordable tour operators and trekking guides in India to make your trip more convenient. So what are you waiting for? Set out on one of these easy treks in India.

Source: Ezine

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Adventure, Dzongri, India Tour, India Travel, Sham Valley Trek, Trekking, Valley of Flowers, dodital trek | No Comments »

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.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Adventure, Chopta Chandrashila Trek, Garhwal, Kedarkantha Trek, Snow Leopard Trek, Trekking, dodital trek, frozen river trek | No Comments »

« Older Entries