Trekking

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

Singalila Ridge Trek-Most Admired Trek of Sikkim

Friday, March 5th, 2010

The Singalila Ridge trek is one of the best treks in the Sikkim Himalayas. The trek is most famous for its views of the Greater Himalayan Range. Starting from Darjeeling, the trek runs through the border of India and Nepal and merges into the southern ridge of Mt. Kanchenjunga. From Darjeeling hills where tea plantations stretch as far as the eye can see, to Sikkim, an ancient Himalayan kingdom of Tibetan culture, trek to Singalila offers breath-taking views. Trekking in Sikkim

The Singalila Ridge Trek is one of the rare spots on earth where the view embraces five summits. On these 19th century English Lords trails, one will trek on easy narrow paths along the Indo-Nepali border, sometimes at the edge of the jungle, sometimes through rhododendron forests. The visit of the main Sikkim monasteries provides a touch of culture and makes this journey a rare venture.

From the Singalila Ridge, one can see a huge panorama of peaks stretching for several hundred kilometers. Included in this view are Mt Everest (8850m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8481m) and Kanchenjunga (8585m) four of the five highest mountains in the World. The peaks of Bhutan and Tibet can also be easily seen from the Singalila Ridge Trek. A glimpse of the summit of Everest and the adjacent peaks provide an additional bonus on this outstanding introductory trek.

The ridge is heavily forested with oak and rhododendron forest and has superb views of many well known peaks- Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Kanchenjunga and Chomolhari. The Singalila Ridge Trek is an outstanding and well-liked short trek. The trails are not very steep so you can take it easy and the altitude is also not that extreme.

The charms of the Himalaya along with its mysteries gradually unfold as trekkers transverse through the dense forests of rhododendron and verdant landscape, through the miles of green-carpeted meadows and sleepy hamlets lost in time.

Most of this trek is in Singalila National Park. The park has a number of tree species such as Oak, Hemlock, Juniper Silver Fir, Magnolia and Rhododendron. The park has good wildlife stocks, leopard, elephant and the rare Red Panda being the most famous. As well as a number of Migratory birds the park had resident pigeon, dove, minivet, magpie, sibia, cuckoo, hornbills and kaleej pheasants.

The fascination of mountain lovers for the Singalila Ridge Trek has many enigmatic reasons. Nowhere else in the world, do such steep heights crowd up a square kilometer, resulting in the richest flora and fauna possible in the mountains. This is an extremely pleasant trek for those who love nature and respect culture. The view of mountains from Sandakphu is unsurpassed by any other view anywhere.

The best season to go for Singalila Ridge Trek is from March to November.

Article Source: Ezine

Trekking in Leh Ladakh

Thursday, February 25th, 2010

The two of the world’s most powerful mountain ranges – the Karakoram and the Great Himalayas – make Ladakh a much preferred adventure destination. Ladakh is also one of the major trekking regions in India. Leh is the most important town in the area.Leh Ladakh Trekking

Leh is where your adventure in Ladakh begins. Age-old monasteries, quaint lanes, colorful markets and dazzling views of the Himalayas make Leh an exotic destination. Feel on top of the world on the Leh Ladakh Trekking which is a paradise for trekkers with plenty of opportunities to fit all adventurers and nature enthusiasts. One can take a trekking tour of 1 day to 1 month – walking, cycling, rafting, riding and touring, exploring the local life styles and culture. There are numerous options with a combination of culture and sport activities in Leh Ladakh Trekking.

Leh is one among the few trekking places in north India that offers wonderful trekking trails. One can hit the route to Markha Valley from Spituk or take the Ladakh Zanskar trek along the Zanskar River. Another popular trek that can be taken is the Indus valley trek.

Some of the leisurely options available in Leh Ladakh trekking include the Sham trek, Spituk trek and the Nubra Valley trek that pass through the green meadows of the alpines. Other options for light treks are Spiti valley Trek and snow leopard trails Trek. Some of the moderate treks include Darcha Padum Trek, Pangong Lake Trek, Indus Valley Trek, Frozen River Trek and Junglam trek. The most challenging treks of the region are Stok Kangri Trek, Nubra Valley trek, Markha Valley, Alchi – Lamayuru Trek and the Rupshu Valley Trek.

Major Leh Ladakh Trekking Routes are:

  1. Leh Ladakh Trek
  2. Frozen River Trek
  3. Lamayuru Alchi Trek
  4. Ladakh Zanskar Trek
  5. Indus valley trek
  6. Ladakh Monastery trek
  7. Markha Valley trek
  8. Stok Kangri Trek
  9. Nubra Valley trek
  10. Darcha Padum Trek

The trek from Lamayuru to Hemis starts and ends with two of the most famous Buddhist Gompas and takes you through the hilltop villages of Ladakh. Stok Kangri, located at an altitude of 6,153 m, is really a nerve wrecking climb. But, it is worth the spell binding views of Zanskar and Karakoram ranges. An extreme trekking route is the ice path of the frozen river Zanskar. It involves walking 15 to 20 km on the tough icy terrains in minus 15 to 20 degree Celsius.

A Travel to Ladakh is not just about beautiful views of snow-capped peaks kissing the blue sky or colorful flags flattering in the wind but is also about centuries old culture of Ladakhi people and their indomitable spirit to live cheerfully in one of the most hostile terrains in the world.

Thus Ladakh is a popular destination for a solitary, leisurely, relaxed holiday. Traveling in Ladakh is traveling in a snow desert. With all its majesty and amazing sceneries, Leh Ladakh Trekking is a tourist’s draw that attracts tourists from all over the world, to its lap all through the year.

Mid June to October is considered to be the ideal time for trekking in Leh Ladakh.

Article Source: Ezine

Dzongri-Goecha La Trek 2010 Departure Dates Unveiled by Peak Adventure Tour

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010

Peak Adventure Tour is a prominent name in the field of Adventure tours that gives value added services to adventure freaks. This year it has come forward with its package for the impending Goecha La trek to Sikkim

“The Dates have been decided keeping in mind the crest season of the trek which is from the month of April till the month of October”, said the head at Peak Adventure.Sikkim Trekking

Situated at an altitude of about 4940 meter, the trek offers a mind catching sight of the mountains like Pandim, Kanchenjunga and the others. The trek is traditional which follows a picturesque route past lush vegetation and wonderful mountain views, pristine and isolated rhododendron forests and mountain lakes. The trail is steep with a lot of flowers and pine trees along the way.

“The dates for the Dzongri-Goecha La trek are April-9 & 23, May- 7, 14 & 21, June 11, August 20, September-10 & 24, October 8 & 22”, he further revealed.

The package to the Dzongri-Goecha La trek gives complete travels in the mountains with visits to monasteries and also one is able to meet the local people and understand their lifestyles. Trekkers can view the mighty Kanchenjunga and other mountains from a very close range.

The trek starts from Yuksom and moves towards north to Tsokha and Dzongri. From here one can savor panoramic mountain views. The trail from Dzongri continues towards east towards the mount Pandim and arrives at the Samiti Lake and then finally to Goecha La.

This is undoubtedly the most popular trek in Sikkim & Darjeeling area. The trek to Goecha la really is getting out & getting trekked.

“Goecha la trek is one of the finest trekking trails in Sikkim. If one loves mountain, rivers, trees then this is the right place to be in without doubt”, said the head at Peak Adventure.

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

News Source: PR-Inside.com

Leh Ladakh Trekking- Paradise for trekkers and Adventure lovers

Tuesday, February 16th, 2010

Ladakh is surrounded by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram; it lies athwart two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range.  Leh Ladakh Trekking

Trekking in Ladakh, an online adventure tour website offers tour services to Leh Ladakh, a land like no other.  This website gives complete information on different Ladakh trekking options like the Stok Kangri Trek, Frozen River Trek, Darcha Padum Trek, Zanskar Trek, Markha Valley Trek, Nubra Valley Trek, Darcha Lamayuru, Snow Leopard Trek and the list continues to Jeep safari, motorbike safari, mountain biking, peak climbing, River rafting expedition and many more.

Leh, the capital of Ladakh is a charismatic destination. From the venerable Buddhist monasteries to thrilling adventure tours, Leh Ladakh Trekking lets you explore a Gompa, go mountaineering in the Himalayas, camp on the Ladakh plateau where the earth seems closer to the sky, trek on treacherous and magnificent routes and see rare mountain goats climb the slopes and cranes fly overhead.

“Leh is where adventure in Ladakh begins. Age-old monasteries, quaint lanes, colorful markets and dazzling views of the Himalayas make Leh an exotic destination”, revealed Arun Joshi, head at Peak Adventure Tour.

Hear the musical song of Buddhist monks in an ancient monastery where time stands still. See the rushing waters of an icy river gush down from a hostile height.

“One may also go trekking through the mountainous terrain of Ladakh (The Land of high passes). Mountaineering, white water rafting and wildlife tours are other adventurous attractions offered by Trekking in Ladakh”, he further added.

Tour this land that will amaze you with its beauty and delight you with the warmth of the Ladakhi people. For more information visit http://www.trekkinginladakh.com/

Goecha La Trek

Thursday, February 11th, 2010

One of the most famed treks in Sikkim is the Goecha La Trek. Being the Third highest peak in the world, Goecha La trek is popular for superb mountain views, birds and the pristine forests. The Goecha La Trek passes through the mighty Kanchendzonga Bio-Sphere Reserve Forests. Sikkim

The Goecha La Trek which is an extension of the Dzongri Trek is set amidst invincible rumbling landscapes and high mountain glaciers. This strenuous trek takes along the Singalila ridge that separates Sikkim from Nepal, starting from the southern end and climaxing at Goecha la (5000 m) opposite the massive Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.

The Goecha La trek is a very adventurous trek beginning in the beautiful hill station of Darjeeling. The trail passes through beautiful wild flowers, wild life, and yak herds giving a pictorial aspect to the trek.

On the way to the Goecha La trek, one comes across crystal clear streams running through the lap of the Himalayas, clouds of butterflies and moths – sparking, fluttering displaying their dazzling color. Intermingling with this is the chirp, twitter and peeping of exotic Himalayan birds. Patience is rewarded by the Sikkim Himalayas Kanchenjunga and other peaks that appears as a background to the scene.

The trail that climbs towards the Goecha La pass will get adrenaline pumping because the path here is not wider than six inches. The cliff overlooks a massive network of glacial moraines and the landscape here transports one to another world. While walking through the glacial beds one feels in a landscape formed of white dunes.

The trek gives an incredible experience that is both challenging and rewarding. For the adventure lovers, Goecha la trek offers a memorable trekking holiday blended with nature, culture and adventure.

Best time to opt for the Goecha La Trek March-May, October-November

Article Published on EzineArticles

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/

Ladakh Monastery Trek

Monday, February 1st, 2010

Ladakh has many historic monasteries called Gompas, where Buddhist monks and nuns live, study and practice their religion. The monasteries of Ladakh are situated in scenic locations, on hills and mountains and have rich collections of Buddhist paintings, arts and artifacts.Monastery Trek Ladakh

With its snow covered peaks, remote villages, and ancient Buddhist monasteries, the Ladakh Monastery trek transports you to another world. Experience the most exotic excursion of your lifetime in the laps of the Great Himalayas that takes you to some of the most beautiful villages and fascinating gompas of Ladakh. The trek to Ladakh monastery crosses numerous passes, it’s a moderate grade trek required minimum of physical fitness and the path does not rise above 4500m.

The famous monasteries of Ladakh are:

Thiksey Monastery: It is the most beautiful of all the monasteries in Ladakh. It is on the north of the Indus River. The Thiskey festival (Thiskey Gustor) is held in the month of October- November. Around 80 Monks resides here. It has a famous statue of Buddha which is 15 meters tall. This statue is the largest Buddha figure in Ladakh.

Mulbek Gompa (monastery) dominates the valley. It is adorned by frescoes and statues. Mulbekh’s main claim to fame is the impressive eight meter high Chamba statue, an image of a future Buddha, cut into the rock face, dating back to about 700 AD.

Phyang Gompa: emerges large at the head of a secluded side-valley that tapers north into the Ladakh Range from the Srinagar highway. Hundreds of icons of Buddha are kept on wooden shelves. The Gompa itself houses a fifty-strong community of lamas. It also houses a ferocious veiled protector deity and an amazing collection of weapons.

Sumur Monastery: This trek is the most important monastery of the Nubra valley of Ladakh region. This monastery is the home to hundreds of monks.

Alchi Gompa: It is one of the most beautiful and the most explored monastery of the region. It is the only monastery in Ladakh which is located on flat ground. It displays Kashmiri style in its art and architecture.

Shanti Stupa: The Japanese for World Peace built the Shanti Stupa, at Changspa, on the hilltop, and was inaugurated by Dalai Lama in 1985. Its state of the art work attracts a lot of tourists to Ladakh and is spectacular to watch.

The monasteries of Ladakh are treasure house of rare statues, exquisite wall paintings, ancient thankas (Painting on cloth), precious antique pieces and artifacts. The best time to visit the Ladakh Monasteries is from June to October.

In Ladakh, the monasteries have always been the centre of religious, social, economic, and political functions. They are a living institution; almost all the gompas follow a code of architecture. The Ladakh Monastery trek is one of its kinds in Leh Ladakh.

Ezine Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Ladakh-Monastery-Trek&id=3656435