Enjoy different travel spots

Sharm El Sheikh - the beautiful coastal city in Egypt

2009-09-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

If you think Egypt, what comes to mind ? Most people associate Egypt with the teeming bazaars and mosques of Cairo, or with Cleopatra, the pyramids, or the Sphinx. Yet more people think about a cruise on the Nile. It is a few (increasing hugely in number) who know about the incredible beach and diving experiences you get at Sharm El Sheikh on the Sinai Peninsula. A huge number of those who come here want to have the pleasure of coming again.

Brief update about the weather: Sharm El Sheikh promises some great weather throughout the year, with dry warm tropical weather providing reprieve from rain or cold in many parts of the world. However, it is hotter and drier in the summer (with temperatures between 25 Celsius and 35 Celsius).

Some amount of history of Sharm El Sheikh. Even a few centuries back, Sharam El Sheikh was shown on a map (showing up in 1762 on a Spanish map), but nothing significant happened here till a few decades back. Even till around 1968, it was nothing more than a quiet fishing community. When Israel took control of the Sinai Peninsula after the war, there were efforts put in to develop Sharam El Sheikh into a tourist destination. Even after Israel handed back the Sinai to Egypt under an agreement, the Egyptian Government continued with those efforts. As a result, Sharam El Sheikh is now known as one of Egypt's best beach resorts, with many excellent and high class premium resorts opening up in the area. Other than these, you also have restaurants from around the world, ejoyable water sports and golf courses. As well as some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world, and arguably the best in the world. In short, you can really relax and unwind on a trip over here.

Location of Sharam El Sheikh on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

Geography: If you decrease the view of the above map, you can see that Sharam el Sheik is situated on the Southern tip of the Sinai peninsula, being surrounded by some classic natural features, the Red Sea towards one side, the mountains of Mount Sinai on the other.
If you try to further break down the internal geography of Sharam El Sheikh, you will find that the reagion comprises of 3 main sections.

Na'ama Bay: First starting to become known in the 1980's, this bay with long stretches of sand saw the first hotel appeared in the early eighties. With more effort spent on this area to make it more beautiful and appealing, one of the attractions is the shoreline of this bay, with a seafront comprising of a long beautiful paved walkway for leisurely walks, lined with flowers of all types such as bougainvillaea and oleander. You will find many more tourists at Na'ama Bay in the evenings. This is where you will find many shops, restaurants, bars and 'Sheesha' cafes.

Ras Um Sid Cliff: Located centrally between Na'ama Bay and the bay of Sharm El Maya (not being more than 5-10 minutes drive from each other), Ras Um Sid Cliff is essentialy famous for some very beautiful coral reefs, as well as a cliff top area where a number of hotels and resorts are located.

Sharm El Maya: The bay area of the older sections of Sharam El Sheikh. Why the bay area ? Well, it has a natural harbor, and you can view a large number of boats of all sizes in the water. And of couse, who can forget the beach, the reason to visit Sharam El Sheikh. The beach is surrounded and full of palm trees, and relaxing under these palm trees is what provides a beautiful green natural shade for the sun soakers. This area is starting to see more premium hotels coming up, and also provides easy access to the old town area.

For more details on what you can do there, and some of the great places to see.
I cannot forget to mention the beautiful underwater scenery (it can get truly amazing) you can get to see in the area located between Tiran Island and Ras Mohammed National Park on the tip of the Southern Sinai. As with any great reef area, you can find crystal clear water, incredibly beautiful reefs, and an incredible variety of exotic fish amongst the colorful coral. If you are not a scuba diver, don't worry, since you can even do short depth snorkelling (surface depth) and still catch sight of these incredible pleasures; and of course if you have come here for scuba diving, Sharam El Sheikh has an excellent reputation world-wide for scuba diving, providing access to some of the Red Sea's most prominent and interesting dive sites.
One of these is a protected site, called Ras Mohamed. It was declared a protected site to ensure that the incredible beauty of this area does not get spoiled. Ras Mohamed is located to the south of Sharm, on the very tip of the Sinai.

What about attractions for others, those who do not know diving, or want more pleasure besides the water ? Now, you can enjoy many pleasures in Sharam El Sheikh; diving is only part of the attraction here, you can come here to soak in the sun, for adventure sports such as parasailing and windsurfing, or to explore the magical desert landscape of the southern Sinai. Since the mid-1980s, the Sharm el-Sheikh area has come into its own as a world-class resort destination, with the construction of a large number of hotels and resorts.

Back to the diving: It is accepted by many that the diving experience in Sharm-el-Sheikh is one of the best in the world. The variety and easy access of corals and the fish life astound every visitor to the area, even to those who have experience in snorkeling and diving. The corals can be found at shallow depths, starting from approx 1 meter from the surface and then going down into the depths. The fish life is all over the reef, allowing visitors the opportunity to view them from the surface, and with such colors, they are easily noticeable. You can see all kinds, from small fish, to the more exotic sharks and rays.

Some of the diving regions: If you already don't know, the diving spots are spread from the Straits of Tiran in the North to the protected region of Ras Mohamed in the South. For diving, the usual experience is using medium size boats, around 20m. These are designed for divers, with a large dive deck and easy access in to the water and then a ladder out. And of course, if you are going with a diver but not stepping into the water, you will find a sun deck on the boat where you can soak in the sun.

And now to something that may not seem so obvious in all the talk about diving, cliffs, and water. Sharam Ek Sheikh is also now having a night life, , with many of the clubs and bars staying open all night, almost until dawn. There are some that operate at timings to attract the divers, while others are geared towards people who want to enjoy the night life. Then there are the ones that are restaurants during the day and converting to night clubs as the night progresses. Regionwise, Naama Bay is the place to be in if you are a night animal. As always, there are exceptions to such a rule, with one of them being El Fanar, which is at Ras um Sidd. This holds a beach party every Wednesday.

And there are also other natural beauties, such as the mountains of the Sinai. Sharam El Sheikh offers an insight into the beauty of the Sinai, with its majestic mountains and valleys, a number of national parks, as well as some well known nearby tourist attractions such as St. Catherine's Monastery.

Details of water sports available at the Sharam El Sheikh. You can find a wide variety of water sports over here, as well as other pursuits such as four wheeling to go cart tracts, from horse riding to championship golf. Everything that goes to make the place a family vacation, one that the whole family can enjoy. In addition, for the more active, you have bungee jumping and, incredibly, ice skating.

Places to stay in Sharam El Sheikh / hotels / resorts:

1. Domina Hotel & Resort El Sultan (site)Contact details: P.O Box 74, Hadaba 46619 Sharm El Sheikh, Sharm El Sheikh, Phone: 069 3601610

2. Jolie Ville Royal Peninsula Hotel & Resort (site)
Peace Rd. PO Box 95, Um MArikha Bay Sharm EL Sheikh, South Sinai – Egypt
Phone +20 69 3604 200
The Jolie Ville Royal Peninsula Hotel & Resort is located at the southern tip of Sinai Peninsula 7kmto Naama Bay and 5km to the Sharms international airport.

3. Maritim Jolie Ville Golf & Resort (link)
Um Marikha Bay, Sharm El Sheikh
Phone: 069 3603200

4. Sharm El-Sheikh Jolie Ville Resort & Casino (link)
Naama Bay, South Sinai, Sharm El Sheikh
Phone: 069 3600100

5. Sheraton Sharm Hotel, Resort, Villas & Spa (link)
Al Pasha Coast, Sharm El Sheikh
Phone: 069 3602070
Nestled on the east shore of the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula on one of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs. Located at Al Pasha Coast, four kilometers from the nightlife of Na'ama Bay and 10 minutes from Sharm El Sheikh International Airport.

6. Beach Albatros Resort Sharm El Sheikh (link)
Ras Om El Sid Cliff, Sharm El Sheikh
Phone: 069 3663923
069 3663924
This all inclusive resort is only 18 km from Sharm El Sheikh Airport and 10 km from the famous Naama-Bay.

7. Aqua Blu Sharm El Sheikh (link)
Photos (link)
Aqua Blu Sharm, Ras Om El Seid, Sharm El Sheikh, South Sinai, Egypt
Tel: +20-69-3665993/7
Aqua Blu Sharm is only 18 km from Sharm El Sheikh Airport and 10 km from the famous Naama-Bay.

8. Royal Albatros Moderna Sharm El Sheikh (link)
Royal Albatros Moderna, P.O.Box 215, Nabq Bay, Sharm El Sheikh, South Sinai, Egypt
Tel: +20-69-3710401 to 8
This elegant all inclusive resort is only 12 km from Sharm El Sheikh Airport, and 20 km from the famous Naama-Bay.

9. Creative Badawia Sharm Resort (link)
Ras Om El Sid Cliff, Sharm El Sheikh
Phone: 069 3663981

10. Creative Grand Sharm Resort (link)
Ras Om El Sid Cliff, Sharm El Sheikh
Phone: 069 366383

11. Creative Mexicana Sharm Resort (link)
Ras Om El Sid Cliff, Sharm El Sheikh
Phone: 069 3661490

12. Sultan Gardens Holiday Inn Hotel (link)
The resort is located in Shark’s Bay, just 5 kilometers from Sharm el Sheikh International Airport and 7 kilometers away from the Bazaars of the City Center.
Phone number: 002 069 360 21 30

13. Habiba Village (link)

14. Iberotle Palace (link)

Listing of hotels along with recommendations available at TripAdvisor (link)

Red Sea Diver's Guide, Volume 2: From Sharm el Sheikh to Hurghada

Blogs / Sites about Sharam El Sheikh:

1. http://www.sharmelsheikh.com/: Some details about the location and various things you can do.
2. http://www.sharmguide.com/
3. http://www.sharm-el-sheikh.com/
4. Weather for Sharam El Sheikh (link)
5. Tips from the T list (link)

See the sun rise over the desert on an unforgettable visit to the place where Moses received the 10 Commandments. On this sunrise tour you will watch the sun rise over the Sinai Mountains, and retrace the footsteps of Moses when he climbed Mt. Sinai. On your journey back down the mountain you will stop at St. Catherine’s Monastery, built between 527 and 565 A.D.

6. TravBuddy (link)

So, I indulged, in true tourist style, in snorkelling (like, wow!), quad biking (whose idea was it for me to don the shades coming back across the desert when it was dark already?), clubbing (had to see the New Year in somehow), and generally lazing around the pool (temperatures could have benefitted from being just that little higher though, give the coldness of the pool's water).

7. TravBuddy (link): Reports on diving and enjoying

For those of you who've dived the Sinai for the sake of form I'll list some of the dives I was able to enjoy in my time there. Ras Katy and Temple in the Rastan Sea; Fiddle Garden or 'Tony Blair Reef'as its occasionally called now owing to the condo the former Brit PM now owns on the shoreline.

8. Coastal vacation club blog (link)

Shark Bay is in the surrounding area and has a great diving centre for those tourists who are looking for some excitement from their holiday. Diving is great fun and Shark Bay is the ideal location for families as there is a very relaxed atmosphere and you will be diving with a dedicated crew with years of experience.

9. Akira Travel (link)

Sharm el- Sheikh was formerly a port, due to strict environmental laws introduced in 90s, commercial shipping was drastically reduced. After the development of civilian port there has been a huge raise in visitors to 5.1 million from 16,000, which invited business and star hotels.
The Sinai Peninsula and its luxury hotel resort areas are collectively called the Red Sea. It is a coast dotted with oases, mangrove forests, and habitat to many species of terrestrial and marine wildlife.

10. Amman adventures (link). Some good photos of a holiday.
11. Reasonpad.com (link)

All around are Bedouins, colorful tents, mountains and sea. There are small, intimate hotels with modern designs, as well as larger hotel complexes belonging to International chains, plus about all the amenities one could expect of a tourist center, including casinos, discos and nightclubs, golf courses and health facilities. In fact, with diving and snorkeling, windsurfing and other water sports, horses and camel riding, desert safaris, and great nearby antiquities attractions, it is almost impossible for a visitor to ever suffer from boredom.

12. Travel Suggestions Blog (link)

With Sharm el Sheikh being so well known for its activities you could be forgiven for thinking that history and culture have taken a back seat. However, visitors to the area are in a prime position to see one of Egypt’s most significant religious sites. St Catherine’s monastery – with the looming Mount Sinai beside it – is where Moses is said to have seen the burning bush before journeying up the mountain to receive the Ten Commandments.

13. 2Articles.com (link)

For those who live to shop, then shopping in Sharm El-Sheikh mall provides shops with both foreign and local products, including jewelry, leather goods, clothing, pottery and books.
Though there are two main seasons, as both of them are desert climates, where the weather is very hot and dry, do make sure to drink plenty of water and take enough protection from dehydration.

14. Elite diving school at the Red Sea (link)

Picture / Image gallery for Sharm El Sheikh:

1. Beach in Sharm Ek Sheikh (link)
2. Many photos (cliff, beach, ships, dive boats, topography) at RomanVirdi.com (link)
3. Huge number of photos at virtualtourist.com (link)
4. Great photos of diving, coral, and water at pbase.com (link)
5. Photos of Sharm Ek Sheikh at tripadvisor. in (link)
6. Photos of Sharm El Sheikh at flickr.com (link)

Videos of adventures at Sharm El Sheikh on Youtube:

1. Naama Bay, Sharm el Sheikh (link)

2. Snorkelling at Middle Garden Reef - Sharm El Sheik (link): Views of coral and colorful fish

3. Shark encounter while diving in the Red Sea October 2007 (link)

4. Dolphin Dive; Sharm el Sheikh (link)

Kadmat Island (in India) - Incredible scuba, snorkeling, white beach

2009-09-03T08:44:00.000-07:00

Kadmat is a beautiful Island, located in the Arabian Sea, as part of the Lakshadweep Islands. It is situated 407 kms. far from Kochi (Cochin) in the Indian state of Kerala('11* 13*' north latitude; '72* 48*' east longitude). One of the largest islands in the group of islands in the Lakshadweep, Kadmat is 8 Km long and 550 m wide at the broadest point. Surrounded on the eastern and western side by a reef lagoon, Kadmat is the ideal heaven of solitude.
The beautiful shallow lagoons that surround Kadamat form an ideal spot for water sports activities. There is a very large lagoon on the western side abounding in coral growths and the associated colorful fish that frolic in such coral growths. This little island has an astonishing variety of marine flora and fauna. Out of these, the best attractions are the long sandy beaches and the sand banks on the southern tip that are ideal for a sunbath.

Location of Kadmat Island on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

The resort at Kadmat offers peace and solitude at the isolated South tip of the island. The rooms offer fantastic views of the encircling lagoons and waking up to Dolphins frolicking just beyond the reef at sunrise is part of the charm at Kadmat (however, be warned, sometimes the Dolphins don't appear and you could get disappointed). A full-fledged water sports institute is functional at Kadmat which allows you deep sea scuba diving (as long as you are able to show your qualifications - if you have not done scuba diving, you can take a learners starter course, but it is not part of the package).
Kadmat woos its visitors with its long unending stretches of white sandy beaches and exceptional scuba diving facilities. Although Kadmat is among the inhabited islands in Lakshadweep, it's population is quite low and is only around 5000. The water around the Kadmat islands are one of the most cleanest in Lakshadweep. The afternoons here are a little sultry and hot, but the nights are quite pleasant with cool breeze from the ocean soothing the environment. If you somehow miss the sunrise, do not forget to witness the sun setting behind the horizon. It lasts a little more than an hour curtaining the sky in a myriad of unbelievable hues. Without a doubt, the shores of Kadmat are one of the most irresistible in many sections of Asia.
Apart from the warm and clear waters, Scuba Diving is worth it for the awesome spread of coral reefs on the sea bed. The most appealing of them all is the red tinged coral that might just tempt you to pick them. However it is advised that you don't do it as it is against the law to take corals from these islands. The tourists may indulge in the water sports like kayaking, yachting, boating and skiing on the water surface. In addition, you can do para-sailing with a rope tied to a speedboat (however, keep in mind that you should reach there early). There is also a glass bottom boat ride where you can see corals and fishes through a glass pane at the bottom of the boat. And then you can do snorkeling, lazily floating through the water with a small pipe getting you the required air to breathe. A person will show you the places with beautiful fish and corals.

Tourist Information:
Lakshadweep Tourism Resort provides both AC and non-AC accommodation with attached bathrooms, foyers and a porch. The huge resort has an office, a gymnasium, a conference room and bathing blocks for people coming after a swim in the sea. The meals here are served in buffet style. The Kerala cuisine are the most favored cuisine here. However, Lakshadweep specials can also be had here.
Kadmat can be reached from Agatti by taking a cruise. It can also be reached by taking up Lakshadweep Tourism departments Marine Wealth and Scuba Diving packages. Read more at this link. http://www.lakshadweeptourism.com/
Learn and book for diving at this location: http://www.lacadives.com/

External articles / blogs:

1. Great Driving challenge (link to article):

The large variety of fish however, ensures that snorkeling is delightful at all times. You may even attempt snorkeling at night. But only if accompanied by a local expert. The experience is ethereal – Imagine - A solitary large star lighting up the sea with a starlight beam. The lagoon is dark and foreboding but for the canopy of little stars above and a world of luminous plankton lighting up the sea grass underwater and the fish swimming around the torchlight.

2. Scuba Diving news (link to article):

The remoteness of Kadmat Island really gives you a feeling of "getting away from it all" - but this comes at a price, either in terms of money or time. Staying on Kadmat Island and paying for the dives are not expensive (in fact, comparatively cheap), but getting to Kadmat is. The diving was truly spectacular, and Kadmat had a wonderfully comfortable, mellow island feel to it.

3. Reviews of the Kadmat Island Resort (link to review)
4. Wanderlust (link to article):

Once you get used to breathing in from your mouth and allow your nose the rest that it never gets, snorkelling and scuba diving is fun.It is like you are absorbed in a different world surrounded by fish big and small, beautiful coloured corals of numerous shapes and sizes and all you have to do is float about enjoying the spectacle.

5. GalBeanVie Leaves Home (link to article). Many photos on this blog also.

The island is a narrow strip of about 6km long with one single road running through the middle, covered in coconut trees and surrounded by the reef, heavenly! The ship stopped just outside the reef and then we had to climb down a rope ladder and get onto a small wooden boat for a 20 minute trip to reach the island. As there is nothing here but fish and coconuts it comes as no surprise to learn that there is a tiny desiccated coconut plant and coconut coir rope factory which we visited one morning.

Photo / Picture Galleries of Kadmat:

1. Ashish's Gallery (link 1, link2)
2. Photo Gallery at lacadive.in (link)
3. Indiamike.com (link)
4. Photos at Kadmat on Flickr (link)

Poovar - Unexplored and Unspoiled Beach in Kerela, India

2009-09-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

Quick Facts
Country : India
State : Kerala
District : Thiruvananthapuram
Coordinates : 8.18 N 77.4 E
Official language(s) : Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi and English
Poovar Climate / Weather : Summers: 36°-20° C; Winters: 16°-32°C

Poovar is like a natural wonder where different water bodies such as Lake, River, Sea and Beach meet the land. A rare find in Kerala, the southern state of India. Poovar fits the definition of an unspoiled and unexplored place, enveloped by serene backwaters, and opening out to the sea, with a bonus of a dream golden sand beach. The historical importance of Poovar lies in its strong ties with the legendary King of the erstwhile Princely State of Travancore, the great Marthanda Varma Maharaja.

Location on maps.google.com

View Larger Map

How to reach ?
Nearest Airport - Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) International Airport : (travel time - 45 minutes by road.
Nearest railway station Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) - (travel time - 45 minutes by road).

Poovar Beach, near the Kovalam Beach, separates the River Neyyar from the sea. Poovar is basically a fishing village, and interestingly, the only way to reach Poovar is through water approach. Known for its pristine and virginal beauty, Poovar Beach is visited by those who love solitude. There are not too many beach activities or water sports on this beach because of the fishing population and emphasis on fishing. Those who love angling as a sport would like the place.
Poovar is truly a window into paradise. Time stopped a few decades ago bowing to the sheer beauty of Poovar. The tranquility of Poovar is punctuated by the sound of waves and the birds. The area is abundant in well-preserved local flora, with hundreds of species of spices, exotic flowers, complete with banana and coconut groves. You can go out with a camera, fitted with a nice zoom lens, and enjoy some spectacular shots of nature.
Poovar offers several possibilities. Cruise to a neighbouring fishing village in 2 minutes. Alter course, and visit a centuries old martial arts village. Kerala is the birthplace of a unique martial art form. The traditional lifestyles here provide the experience of a natural museum.
The Poovar beach separates the river from the sea and is quite breathtaking. Because of the active fishing population the beach is not really used as a sunbathing spot or for swimming as the currents are quite strong.

Poovar weather:
Poovar lies on the southern coast of Kerala, close to the major tourist resort of Kovalam. Like other regions of India, Kerala enjoys a tropical climate with plenty of sunshine, with the peaceful beach resort of Poovar seeing high temperatures all-year round. The best time to visit Poovar is during the dry winter season, from November to February.

Holidays in Poovar – Stay in a unique floating cottage
The beach at Poovar is covered with golden sands and backed by coconut and palm trees, enjoying an unspoilt atmosphere and an abundance of natural beauty. Banana groves, exotic flowers and spices add to the scenery and create an exotic environment. Poovar is home to a couple of hotels along the river estuary and on the beach offering modern and comfortable facilities, as well as the Ayurvedic health centres, found throughout Kerala. A must-see in Poovar is the serene and isolated Poovar Island Resort, accessible only by boat from the jetty, offering the unparalleled experience of staying in a floating cottage, which bobs gently up and down in the Arabian Sea. These cottages are

Things To Do In Poovar :
- Beach (and it is spectacular). The tranquil beach resort is the ideal spot for relaxation, in a setting of golden sand backed by coconut and palm trees. The exotic setting is enhanced by lush vegetation and tropical flowers, and the picturesque fishing village boasts an unspoilt charm. Swimming and snorkelling are the main activities on the beach.
- Waterways. Located on the famous Kerala backwaters, Poovar offers many trips along the canals and rivers, providing a fascinating insight into local life. Excursions range from basic canoe trips to luxury houseboat cruises, with the many water-taxis a unique way to get around. These can give a great feeling on gently coasting on the water, relaxing, with a book in one's hand.
- Ayurvedic Treatments. With Kerala being the home of Ayurvedic medicine, Poovar offers plenty of opportunity to try age-old treatments that soothe the mind, body and soul, with the tranquil ambience enhancing the relaxing atmosphere found here.
- Cuisine. Enjoying the delicious Kerala cuisine is one of the pleasures of a holiday in Poovar, with plenty of places to try the many different spicy dishes, from street snacks to leisurely meals. With affordable prices and an array of varying flavours, dining out is a treat, and especially good for vegetarians. And of course, enjoying sea food is great.
- Shopping. Poovar's weekly market offers a taste of local produce and offers an array of hand-made goods and crafts, which make ideal gifts and souvenirs.
- Floating Island. Visit the luxurious Poovar Island Resort and enjoy a tranquil stay in one of their unique floating cottages, or a drink or a meal in the restaurant for a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Day Trips. Head out on a crocodile watching expedition, enjoy a sunrise cruise to watch the fishermen, or a romantic sunset cruise for two. Make the trip to the city of Thiruvananthapuram for a taste of bustling life in Kerala.

PLACES TO STAY IN POOVAR :
- Poovar Island Resort (link)
The Poovar Island Resort Thiruvananthapuram belongs to the Sarovar Park Plaza hotel chain. It offers you the very best in luxury and hospitality. Traditional Keralian architecture has been used to construct the cottages. The cottages though traditional in outlook is replete with all modern facilities. Set amidst the verdant green of coconut plantation and overlooking the cobalt blue sea, Poovar Island Resort Thiruvananthapuram, is an ideal place to spend your weekend.
The floating cottages are connected to the main area by a bridge. They are constructed out of hollow light weight hulks. Traditional materials have been used to accentuate the heritage value of the resorts.
- Estuary Island (link)
It is nestled in Poovar Island and offers 46 rooms which show off premium comforts and plush settings. The rooms are categorized as Estuary Suites, Estuary View Suites and Estuary Garden suites – all of which are aesthetically furnished with attractive wood furniture, spacious lounge areas, king sized beds, attached washrooms and baths, and private balconies. Enjoy the tranquility of a beach resort without compromising on the world class amenities.
- Isola De Coco (link)
It is blessed with some of the finest natural bounties, it provides you with the best of comforts. No visit to Kerala would be complete without a reverie stint with this enchanting resort. There are 46 well furnished rooms with fine decor, which are last words in opulence. The ensuited rooms are categorized into Suites, Heritage Rooms and Standard Rooms, complete with private balconies, which offer great views.

External articles / blogs:

1. Wanderlust (link to article):

Poovar Estuary Island resort has an island with a beach and the Arabian Sea beyond, an estuary giving way to a lake and subsequently, the Poovaru (river). There is a vantage point upfront with recliners from where all of them form part of one panoramic view. The island is sandy for the most part (land reclaimed and silted) and looks over to the lake on one side, the sea on the other. There are boats that ferry people from the resort to the island and the boat-jetty is operational 24 hours if prior notice is given.

2. A wandering mind (link to article). Lots of photos in this article.

Poovar is a small island about 30 Kms from Trivandrum, where the backwaters merge with the Arabian Sea. The river Neyyar also empties into the sea here, and thus, at Poovar Beach near the island, one can see the remarkable sight of river, sea, beach, backwaters, as well as lakes (formed at intervals due to the flow of water), all converging at the estuary.

3. Travel and Places (link to article):
4. Holiday Spa Resports (link to article):

Situated on the midst of south-west coast of Arabian Sea, the beautiful land of Kerala, Poovar Island Resort owns a sense of natural beauty in itself, where it has been widespread around 30 acres along with 60 cottages, which looks like that nature itself is creating a true landscape. And not only has this, the secluded beauty of golden sandy beaches where long palm trees surrounds it, made this place a true paradise. That is the reason why the count of tourist visiting Poovar Island Resort of Kerala is increasing year by year.

5. Anoop's weblog (link to article). Plenty of photos on this blog.

Poovar is a small coastal village in the Trivandrum district of Kerala state, south India. This village is almost at the southern tip of Trivandrum and there is not much distance from here to the Kerala – Tamilnadu border. This village has a beautiful beach which attracts tourists. There are also some good tourist resorts. Poovar was a trading center of timber, sandlewood, ivory and spices. It is believed that the trading ships of King Solomon landed in a port called ‘Ophir’, which is figured out as Poovar.

6. Travel to India Guide (link to article):

Poovar island is 30km from Trivandrum and 12km south of kovalam. Nearest airport and railway station is in trivandrum…Through road if you travel from Trivandrum in the early morning you can avoid the traffic and reach the boat jetty in 45-mts….A 15-minute scenic boat ride through the backwaters takes you to the resorts around the island.

7. Vacation Tour (link to article):

In the southwest coast of India, Arabic sandwiched between the sea and the majestic mountains of the Western Ghats, is a narrow strip of the beautiful countryside. A great country, famous for its natural beauty breathtaking. The lush green country of the name of Kerala, the country of God. " Poovar Island Resort, http://www. poovarislandresort. com, has a large number of unique habitats. A total of 54 bungalows in a 25 hectares. Charming country cottages, country inns 54, built in typical Kerala architecture, which extends over the island, lined with coconut Haine traditional atmosphere combined with state-of-the-art facilities.

8. Wanderlogue (link to article):

The resort offers stay in either a land cottage, which lies beyond the reception and swimming pool, or a floating cottage - on the backwaters. The floating units are constructed on hollow light weight concrete hulls. They are air-conditioned and fully equipped with all modern amenities.

9. Jaggu's Blog (link to article):

We had reservations for a floating cottage, which are built on a hollow concrete base and tethered to the shoreline. However, as these cottages were shutdown in the weeks prior to our arrival due to high tides and wind, they were not ready for occupation when we arrived. They put us up in a regular room, with a hammock in the balcony for a couple of days before we shifted to the floating cottage. In hindsight, that was a good break, as I was not very impressed with the cottage, which had quite a shabby feel to it. In contrast, the rooms were extremely impressive, spacious and neat.

10. Rising of a photographer (link to article). Lots of photos in this article.

This stunning location has been successful in attracting many tourists over the years. This charming beach is considered as one of the leading tourists spots in Kerala. Poovar Beach is a place where life goes on as it did hundred years ago

11. Lightning strikes everyday (link to article):

The place is already so beautiful that you feel you are part of some dream sequence. On top of it everywhere you see, there are couples holding hands and walking slowly, couples sitting near the swimming pool and nuzzling each other like newly born kittens. Things are almost in slow motion and where ever you see, couples are walking in slow motion looking dreamily into each others eyes.

12. Scene India (link to article):

Poovar was a trading center of timber, sandlewood, ivory and spices. It is believed that the trading ships of King Solomon landed in a port called 'Ophir', which is figured out as Poovar.

Photo / Picture Gallery:

1. Poovar Estuary on Webshots.com (link)
2. Poovar Photos on sulekha (link)
3. Poovar Photos at trekearth.com (link)
4. Poovar Photos on oktatabyebye.com (link)
5. Photo Gallery at royj.net (link)

Videos of Poovar on Youtube:

Poovar Resort (link)

Poovar Island Resort (link)

Fridays Place, Ecolodge homestay, Poovar Island (link)

Poovar Island Resort, TVM (link)

Poovar Island Resort (link)

Poovar (link)

Sikkim - Land of peace and tranquility in East India

2009-08-07T02:40:00.000-07:00

GENERAL INFORMATION :
Sikkim : 7,096 sq.kms
Latitude : 27-28* North
Longitude : 88-89* East
Altitude : 5,500 ft.
Temperature Summer: Max -21*C / Min-13* C
Winter: Max-13*C / Min-05* C
Annual rainfall : 3,894 mm
Best Seasons : Feb – May / Sep-Nov.
Capital Town : Gangtok
Other Major Towns : Rongpo, Namche, Gyezing, Jorthang, Pelling, Singtam
Clothing : Summer - light woolens / Winter – Heavy woolens

Sikkim is a land of peace and tranquility, an ideal destination for trekking and for seeking some rest from fast paced action of life. People can rejuvenate themselves by being much closer to nature, walking in green areas, among mountains and trees. The Night sky is clear with constellations being clearly visible as opposed to cities where the light hides everything. Spend some time in this cultural wonderland, get some insights into Buddhism, enjoy shopping in the local markets, and overall forget all your tensions and problems.
Small but beautiful. Sikkim is situated in the eastern Himalayas. The state is legendary for its peaceful nature and simplicity. Famous for Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, along with a view of the majestic Mount Everst. The mountain state of Sikkim offers tremendous variety of plant and wildlife besides a diverse ethnic mix of people with rich cultural tradition.
Sikkim is rich with a wide variety of flora and fauna, and can make nature watchers salivate at the prospect of finding nature's marvels so easily accessible. About 450 varieties of orchids, over 600 species of butterflies, 500 species of birds along with red pandas, snow leopards and other animals can be seen in Sikkim. The largest collection can be seen at the Kanchenjunga National Park which covers an area of 850 square kilometers. As a result ornithology tourism is also gaining in prominence in Sikkim.

TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATION:
Airlines:
Nearest airport is Bagdogra (124 kms) in North Bengal which is about 4 hours drive from Gangtok. Sikkim Tourism operates daily five-seater helicopter service between Gangtok and Bagdogra connecting all civil flights. We also arrange Helicopter service for sight-seeing.

Railways:
The two nearest railway stations are Silliguri (114 kms) and New Jalpaiguri (125 kms).

Road:
Good condition roads connect Sikkim with Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Silliguri all the way to Kolkata. The Sikkim Nationalized Transport (SNT) plies regular bus service from Gangtok to all Major cities and towns in North Bengal and within the state. Booking facilities are available at Silliguri and Gangtok. Private buses and taxis are also available in plenty connecting Gangtok, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Silliguri.

View Larger Map

Places to visit in Sikkim :

- The Ridge Park : It stretches from the Main Palace Gate to the White Hall. A long idyllic stretch lined by the beautiful cherry trees that in season burst into flower in a profusion of delicate pink blossoms, this is the perpetual haunt of the jogging enthusiasts. The flamboyant marquee or 'Hawa Ghar' with ornate design holds sway over the Park where you can laze around or watch the local children romp exuberantly. The Flower Festival which is held year round is just a short walk down.
- Saramsa : It is the home to the Ipecac Garden is another popular tourist destination that is a mere14kms away from Gangtok. Home to many rare orchids and other flora, its shady lawns often play host to picnic parties.
- The Water Garden : A little further away at 16 kms is another alternative worth exploring. Cool off in the small and sheltered swimming pool there. Or else clamber over rocks in the vicinity and dip your feet in the river.
- Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology : It was Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal, the last monarch of Sikkim who realized a long cherished dream when he set up this Institute. HH The Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of the NIT which is done in typical Tibetan architectural style in Feb 1957. The following year Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurated the NIT.
- Do-drul Chorten : It is one of the most important Chortens or stupas of Sikkim that is exquisite as it is sacred. It was built in 1945 by Trulshik Rimpoche, a great teacher and interpreter of Buddhism.

NORTH SIKKIM :
- Dzongu : The territory of Dzongu in North Sikkim was set up in 1975. It is a land where pristine glacial streams thread their way through thick virgin forest. Countless waterfalls cascade down the steep cliff-sides and hot-springs bubble inside the hidden caves. The area is very remote, and is surrounded by sharply tilted verdant mountains that are stacked on top of each other at a forbidden angle. The elevation ranges from 500m to 6000m, and these extremes have nurtured an amazing diversity of plants and wildlife.

EAST SIKKIM :
- Rumtek Monastery : It is now the largest Buddhist monastery in East Sikkim and is the place where the monks perform sacred rituals and practices. Many sacred objects are housed within the complex, and one of the most magnificent is the Golden Stupa, which contains the precious relics of His Holiness the Sixteenth Karmapa.
- Pastanga : The village located in East Sikkim is very rich in culture and folklore; and is surrounded by hills covered with dense forest and cascading streams with rivulets cutting through the landscape and appealing orchids blooming on tree tops.
- Khedi - Located in East Sikkim, is renowned for its two sacred lakes, the Bhale Pokhari and the Pothi Pokhari where a festival is celebrated every year attracting hundreds of pilgrims from all over Sikkim.

WEST SIKKIM:
- Pelling : The city of Pelling located in West Sikkim is balancing on a ridge at an altitude of 2.040 m. One of Pelling's main attractions is the Pemayangste Monastery. Known as the "Perfect sublime lotus" it is one of the oldest Monasteries in Sikkim being founded in 1705. The Sagachoeling (or Sang Gnak Choling) monastery is an even older monastery, dating back to 1697, and situated on a hilltop close to Pelling. Khecheopalri Lake, which is considered to be a holy lake by both the Buddhists and the Hindus, can be easily reached from Pelling.
- Darap : The picturesque village of Darap, located 8 kilometers from Pelling is a 20 minutes drive downhill passing through cardamom groves and terraced paddy fields.
- Yuksam : Yuksam is situated in the far western corner of Sikkim and nestled at the base of high forest-covered snow-capped mountains. Yuksam literally means 'the meeting place of the three monks'.
- Uttaray : Tucked away in the lap of mother nature is the tranquil village of Uttaray, the gateway to the Singalila trek. This village provides visitors with many options to go for short hikes or longer treks in the vicinity or visit the Limboo village of Sopakha located an hour walk from Uttaray.
- Hee Bermiok : The newly developed destination of Hee Bermiok with widespread community participation is an ideal destination for visitors wanting to sample unique rural lifestyle of Sikkim. The strong Limboo culture of this area is worth appreciating.

SOUTH SIKKIM :
- Namchi : Sikkim's South District, is the second largest populated districts of Sikkim. Its headquarter is in Namchi, meaning "High sky". The area does credit to its name, nestled among the hills it gives panoramic views of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and the magic snow-capped mountains in the back.
- Kewzing : It is a typical Bhutia village in South Sikkim under the cover of the forest. At an altitude of 1200 m Kewzing provides its inhabitants with magnificent views of mountains including Mt. Kabru. Best mountain views occur from mid September to mid December. The atmosphere in the village is very serene and peaceful as the local people are very friendly and hospitable.

TREKS IN SIKKIM :
Most of the mountain areas in Sikkim have a fragile ecosystem. This demands any trekkers to obtain special permit to trek. Trekking in Sikkim is conducted in an organized manner. Individuals cannot trek on their own.
* Darjeeling to Kanchenjunga Trek
* Darjeeling and Sikkim Trekking
* Off Beaten Treks
* Singalila Ridge & Goecha La Trek
* Sikkim and Kanchenjunga Trek(20d)
* Sikkim and Kanchenjunga Trek(23d)
* Varsey Trek
* Yuksom To Dzongri & The Goecha La

RIVER RAFTING IN SIKKIM :
Rafting in Sikkim is an adrenalin pumping exercise especially in the two snow fed rivers of Teesta and Rangit. During the monsoon season hundreds of small streams can be found all over Sikkim. The two trails that are possible amongst rafters are :
* On River Teesta: Chungthang - Dikchu - Singtam - Melli
* On River Rangit: Legship - Jorethang - Melli
http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=7200244138493866871

Where to stay in Sikkim ?
- Heritage Hotels
* Norkhill Heritage Hotel, Paljor Stadium Road, Gangtok
* Himalayan Heights Hotel, Palzor Stadium Road, Gangtok
- Luxury Hotels
* Tibet Hotel (3 Star), Paljor Stadium Road
* Chumbi Residency, Tibet Road
* Tashi Delek Hotel (4 Star), Gangtok
* Hidden Forest Retreat, Lower Sichey Busty
- Deluxe Hotel
* Tashi Gang Resort, Yangtey near Peling, West Sikkim
* The Bliss Resort, Biksthang, Mangalbarey, West Sikkim
* Hotel Golden Pagoda, M.G.Marg
* Golden Heights, M.G.Marg
* Hotel Tashi Tagay, Tadong, Gangtok
* Hotel Bayul, M.G.Marg
* Hungry Jack, National Highway - 31 A
* Hotel Mount Simvo Tadong, Gangtok
* Middle Sichey, Gangtok
* Tashi Ghang Hotel, Yuksom

Kalimpong - Quiet and Serene Hill Station

2009-07-29T20:32:00.000-07:00

Area : 1056 sq km
Population : 50,000 (approximately)
Altitude : 1250 m (4100 ft)
Summer : Max. 27.1°C, Min. 16°C
Winter : Max. 15°C, Min. 5°C
Annual Rainfall : 220 cm
Best Season : March to mid June & Sept. to November
Languages Spoken : Nepali, Hindi, English, Tibetan and Bengali
Clothing required : Tropical in summer and light woollens in winter.

Kalimpong bears a name of historic significance. Once the headquarters of a Bhutanese Governor, the word 'Kalim' means King's Minister and ' pong' - the stronghold hence the stronghold of the King's minister. It is also called 'kalibong' or the spur by the hill people. 'Kalimpong' in local dialect stands for 'Kaulim' which is a fibrous plant which grows in abundance in this region.
Kalimpong is a bustling and rapidly expanding, though still relatively small, bazaar (market) town set among the rolling foothills and deep valleys of the Himalayan at an altitude of 1250m. It was once part of the lands belonging to the rajas of Sikkim, until the beginning of the 18th century when it was taken from them by the Bhutanese. In the 19th century it passed into the hands of the British and thus became part of West Bengal. It became a centre for Scottish missionary activity in the late 19th century, and Dr Graham's orphanage and school is still running today.

View Larger Map

Kalimpong's attractions include three monasteries, a couple of solidly built churches, an excellent private library for the study of Tibetan and Himalayan language and culture, a sericulture, orchid nurseries and fine views over the surrounding countryside. Although not many travelers bother to visit Kalimpong, there's enough here to keep you occupied for a couple of days, and for the energetic there's some good trekking too, and who can resist trekking. The dense forests of golden oak trees offset by the rich undergrowth of moss and lichen provide an ideal setting for balmy walks on the thick cushions of russet-brown leaves. One comes to Kalimpong to slow down and be pampered by nature's bounties.
The vast rolling meadows covered with a riot of wild flowers, the sparkling brooks and rivulets meandering lazily by the terraced fields are a feast for one's eyes. Kalimpong is a blaze of colour throughout the year owing to the richness of its stunning flora. The orchids of this region in particular are famous for their infinite variety as well as their delicate tints.

Tourist Attractions In and Around Kalimpong :
1. Gompas
Established in 1922, the Tharpa Choling Gompa belongs to the Yellow Hat Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, founded in the Tibet in the 14th century and to which the Dalai Lama belongs. It's a 40 minute walk from town; take the path to the right off KD Pradhan Rd, just before the Milk Collection and Extension Wing Building.
Lower down the hill, the Thongsa Gompa, of Bhutanese Monastery, is the oldest monastery in the area and was founded in 1692. The present building is not so old - the original was destroyed by the Gurkhas in their rampage across Sikkim before the arrival of the British.
Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa, five km south of the town centre at the end of the ridge, was built in the mid - 1970s at Durpin Dara Hill and was consecrated by the Dalai Lama. There are impressive wall paintings in the prayer room, and a rare three dimensional mandala upstairs. Mountain views are good from Durpin Dara Hill. This area is a big military camp, but you are free to walk or drive through it.

2. DR. GRAHAM’S HOME: Dr. John A. Graham, a Scottish missionary founded this Institute in 1900. This Institution built on Deolo Hill north of the main township was established as an orphanage-cum-school for destitute Anglo-Indian children. It is now a renowned regular co-educational school situated in a 500-acre campus.

3. Durpin Dara: an observatory point from where a truly spectacular view of the Himalaya can be enjoyed. This along with the panoramic view of the Teesta and Relli rivers, and the plains far below, provide visitors with a memorable sight.

4. Flower Nurseries : Kalimpong produces 80% of India's gladiolas and is an important orchid - growing area; flowers are exported from here to many cities in northern India. The Sri Ganesh Moni Pradhan Nursery and the Udai Mani Pradhan Nursery are among the most important in the area. The Standard and the Universal Nurseries also specialise in cacti. There's a flower festival in Kalimpong in October.

5. Pedong monastery : Built around 1837, is of Bhutanese origin, while a kilometer away is the historical Bhutanese fort of Damsang, an important landmark of the area before the main town of Kalimpong came into prominence.

6. Mangal Dham Mandir : Sprawling over an area of two acres and built in 1993, Mangal Dham is considered to be one of the most splendid temples in India. It is the ground floor of the Dham, where lies the "samadhi" of their revered Guruji.

7. LAVA : 34 kms away from Kalimpong, Lava at a height of 7 , 755 ft. is a small hamlet, hidden in the mist & cloud all through the year. Most of the proposed treks in & around Kalimpong start from Lava.

8. LAVA LOLAY GAON : Whole day Excursion to Lava with a visit to the Tibetan monastery at Lava and a drive to Lolaygaon, a hamlet situated at 55 kms from Kalimpong, where you can walk among the treetops on a specially built tree top pathway. Late evening drive back to Kalimpong or stay overnight at Lava Lolay Gaon.

9. RISHYAP : 10 km rough jeep drive from lava is this small Lepcha Village situated at a heigh of 8, 500 ft. Rishyap means “lofty cliff of forest of ancients trees” in Lepcha language. Snow capped mountain peaks, dense evergreen forest, terraced agricultural field are the part of Rishyap.

10. DEOLO HILL: The highest point within Kalimpong municipality area (elevation approximately 1650 mtrs) that provides a 360-degree panoramic view. A fantastic bird’s-eye-view of Kalimpong town & Durpian hill can be had from here.

11. Sericulture Research Institute : At this institute silkworms are bred and silk is produced as well as herbs and plants. Locate on the road to Darjeeling, the institute can be visited between 9.30 am and 4 PM.

12. Nature Interpretation Centre : Located on Rinkingpong Rd, this centre consists of a number of well-organized dioramas, which depict the effects of human activity on the environment. The centre is open to visitors from Friday to Wednesday from 10 am to 4 PM and admission is free.

PLACES TO STAY :
1. Samthar Farm House : A special place for those who appreciate nature Tucked away in the lap of nature in the remote mountains, 80 Kms from Kalimpong, The SAMTHAR FARM HOUSE is a unique getaway - an intimate Wilderness Eco Lodge, offering tranquility, and one of the finest views of Khangchendzonga, the third highest peak in the world. It is ideal for nature lovers, honeymooners, and those seeking unusual places. It has been created by converting an abondoned Lepcha Farmhouse into a deluxe country residence, by Retired Indian Army General "Jimmy" Singh. Its natural stone and old timber construction has been preserved. The house nestles in a clump of pines, with a terraced nature garden rising to the rocky outcrop at the top of the hill. The natural landscape has been retained. The view rivals Tiger Hill (near Darjeeling). As a bonus, the sunrise and sunset views can simply be described as breathtaking.
2. Holumba Haven - HOLUMBA facing Mount. Kanchenjunga is a 2 acres natural landscaped botanical extravangenza, water fed by a natural spring, inhabited by a flora population over 1000 species of orchids, plants & trees, and conveniently located on the main highway,a kilometre ahead of Kalimpong town having own car park & garages. (The Ven. Bikchu Sangharakshita lived in "The Hermitage" (Magnolia) and refers to it as his Garden of Eden.) HOLUMBA offers the nature loving tourists an expansive orchid nursery :-"Nurseryman's Haven", world wide exporter since 1972 - specialist in Indo- Burmese orchids & Himalayan & Exotic - bulbs, tubers, rhizomes, plants, & seeds.
3. Hotel Silver Oaks - Lounging in the landscaped gardens in a profusion of colour, one is treated to breathtaking view at the Silver Oaks, Kalimpong. The natural décor is characteristic in the imposing Kanchenjungha which can be seen on a clear day, blooming petunias and asters, the serrated violet edges of iris, iridescent butterflies flitting through colourful azaleas, drooping geraniums, proud orchids and heaven, temporarily descends on earth. Sitting in one of the quaint gazebos, the tea seems to be flavoured by the refreshing winds of the Himalayas. The Silver Oaks was built in 1930 and once belonged to the prominent architect Frederick Desraj who built the old Teesta Bridge.
4. Hotel Himalayan - In the early days of the last century the hotel was the family home of David Macdonald. After accompanying the Younghusband Mission to Lhasa in 1904 as interpreter, Macdonald was posted to Tibet as a British Trade Agent, serving in Yatung and Gyantse until his retirement in 1924. Macdonald assisted the 13th Dalai Lama's escape from Tibet in 1910, and he was later invited to Lhasa in 1921. Prior to his retirement he served briefly as Britain's Political Officer in Sikkim, in charge of Britain's relations with Tibet, Bhutan and Sikkim.
5. Hotel Kalimpong Park - It is situated on a viewpoint, 1 km. uphill from the downtown area. The hotel faces north-east, and has a 270 degree panoramic view of the hills and valleys, with Kachenjunga massif standing majestically on the left. The hotel has its own cars that drive up to the front door.
6. Soods Garden retreat : 8.5 Miles is where you will find the retreat, just 800 meters before the Hustle and Bustle of the Market area, set amidst Nature with a breath taking view, on the sunniest part of the Hills. For whatever you have in mind you can't be better Located. Near to all the site seeing interests. Laze on the rolling Lawns and Gardens or just admire the Glory of the mighty Mt. Kanchenjunga from the Restaurant, Balconies or Lawns.
7. Garden Reach hotel : It is a budget hotel, located at a distance of 0.5 kms from the main town. The hotel is a perfect place for the leisure as well as business traveler.
8. Gurudongma House : Gurudongma House is located 3 kms from Kalimpong town center, away from the pollution, and noise of the town, in the exclusive hilltop locality. The house commands breathtaking views of the panorama of snows, dominated by Khangchendzonga – the third highest peak in the world.
This is not a hotel but a home, providing exclusive hospitality. Paying guests are personally hosted by the General, and are cared for by trained ethnic staffs, which provide spontaneous personalized service. The house offers just four guestrooms.
9. Hotel Tres : It lies at the crossroads of elegance and comfort. The building blends old and new, aesthetically pairing a new modest structure with an old cottage. Superbly located in Kalimpong offers a portrait of the hill station few will ever forget. Kalimpong is a beautiful place blessed with flowers and a pleasant weather all year round.

Banks :
1. State Bank of India
2. Central Bank of India
3. Union Bank of India
Hospitals :
1. Kalimpong Govt. Hospital
2. Dr. Mishra's Nursing Home
3. Dr. Mullick's Nursing Home
4. Dr. Sharma'a Nursing Home

How to get there ?
- Local Transport : Ponies, Jeeps, Private taxis
- Air Connections : Nearest Airport is Bagdogra. Bookings for Indian Airlines, Jet Airways, Sahara India and Damania can be made at Kalimpong.
- Rail Connections : Nearest Railway Stations is New Jalpaiguri. Bookings can be had from agencies in Kalimpong around Rishi Road.
- Road Connections : It is 51 km from Darjeeling, connected by all weather metalled road.
Kalimpong to Siliguri (2 1/2 hrs.) - 65 km
Kalimpong to Gangtok (3 1/2 hrs.) - 78 km
Kalimpong to Darjeeling (2 hrs.) - 51 km

External articles / blogs:

1. Traveller's point (link to article)

To everyone who will tell me that 14 people in a jeep is not possible, I will answer them that they have to try the road between Darjeeling and Kalimpong in the jungle XD. Nice ride and I arrived in this bazaar busy city yesterday.

2. Exotic India (link to article):

Welcome to Kalimpong! The dense forests, lone roads, distant vision of mighty Himalayas, vast valleys, green meadows, it is indeed a heaven of the eastern part of India. Not only nature but the culture and tradition of Kalimpong are also a nice thing to experience. Kalimpong in West Bengal is a major center for traditional handicrafts, thanka paintings, metal crafts, Tibetan and Leptcha jewelries, wooden mask and other indigenous products. A large number of tourist throughout the year flock to this small town for its unique beauty.

3. HolidayhomeIndia (link to article)

Kalimpong is a beautiful hill station in the Darjeeling Hills at a height of 1,250 metres (4,101 ft) situated in the Indian state of West Bengal. Kalimpong is known for its educational institutions many of which were established during the British colonial period. Kalimpong, located on a ridge overlooking River Teesta, is a tourist destination for temperate climate and proximity to popular tourist locations in the region. Kalimpong is famous for its horticulture of various rare species of world famous orchids. Kalimpong is a town of religious centre of Buddhism.

4. Travel and Places (link to article):

One of the first things that comes to mind when the name Kalimpong is mentioned is its vast treasure-house of flowers. Rare and beautiful varieties of flowers and orchids grow in abundance, beautifying the region and also contribute significantly to the economy of the same. Kalimpong also boasts of numerous nurseries. Kalimpong is also the habitat of wildlife species including Asiatic Black Bear, Barking Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Tahr, Pangolin, Clouded Leopard, Siberian Weasel, Red Panda, Goral, Gaur and birds like Monal Pheasant, Orioles, Maynas, Besra, Hornbills, Swallows, Eurasian Sparrowhawks, Himalayan Griffon Vulture, Owls, Parakeets, Woodpeckers, Sunbirds, Black Baza and the Kalij Pheasant. Wildlife enthusiasts would thoroughly enjoy themselves at Neora Valley National Park.

5. Hill Stations in India (link to article):

The name, Kalimpong, has three different origins. One, it means the place where the local tribesmen gathered to organize field sports, second, it takes it’s name from the Bhutanese king’s minister’s stronghold and thirdly, it is named after Kaulim, a fibrous plant found in abundance in this region.

6. my dharmic life (link to article):

Kalimpong, in the north-eastern part of India close to the border to Sikkim, was the home of Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche after he had fled from Tibet. Here Sogyal Rinpoche received instructions by him when he was in his early twenties.

7. Santosh Yatra (link to article):

Kalimpong has a lot to offer in terms of shopping. The Main Road, the 10th Mile Market and the Raja Dorje Market are some of the good places to shop. The must-buys of Kalimpong include fresh ginger and honey, Tibetan noodles, jewelery, artefacts, seeds and flower bulbs. The Kalimpong Arts & Crafts Centre is the best place for authentic Lepcha, Bhutanese and Sikkimese embroidered work on purses and dresses.

8. Adrian Cycling around Sikkim (link to article). Some great photos also here.

I woke in the morning to even thicker clouds and set off on the next leg of my circular route back to Kalimpong. The road to Kaffir (also known as Lolygoan) turned out to be a mostly terrifying route through forests considerably more ominous and misty than the previous day's, but this time on deserted roads full of potholes and loose stones. It was all fairly nerve wracking. It was also almost all very steep downhill, so turning back would be almost impossible.

9. Of Ink, Pennings And Pittoresco's! (link to article):

Cradled in the hills of Darjeeling-India, the small town of Kalimpong is but a place overwhelmed by ardent football enthusiasts. The passion for the game runs back to decades and the zeal has been carried down through the generation. Arguably, the pinnacle of this begins early July and ends in the usually rainy evening of the Indian Independence day.

10. MyTourInfo (link to article)

Most of the drive to Kalimpong from Siliruri is along forests fringing the Teesta River. Built into a steep gorge, the road overlooks this beautiful river as it rumbles and slides through the Himalayan foothills. About halfway, the graceful Coronation Bridge leads off to the east towards the Dooars, West Bengal’s picturesque tea country. Further upstream is Kalimpong.

11. TSI Holidays (link to article):

The road is one of the most scenic routes in this part of the nation. You will get a breathtaking scenic view of the Teesta river all your way to the town. The hill station is at an altitude of 1250 mts above the sea level. From this town one can get a panoramic view of the majestic Mt Kanchenjunga and the snow clad Himalayan range. The Durpin Dara and Deoro Hill are the two most popular scenic points of Kalimpong. Kalimpong belongs to the Darjeeling district. Coming here you will find a number of monasteries. The Kali temple of Kalimpong is very famous. The Tibetan Monastery Dr Graham's home are the remarkable tourist spots.

12. Real Travel (link to article):

I spent the majority of my time (weekends excluded) in a tiny little village called No.12 Dhura (aka Barranumber), which is North-east of Kalimpong near the town of Pedong.

13. Just Another Travel Blog (link to article):

The easiest route to reach Kalimpong is to take a flight from Delhi to Bagdogra/ Siliguri (about 70kms from Kalimpong). At the airport, many taxis are accessible to Kalimpong. [Remember that when you are going to Kalimpong, it is best that you reach not later than 5pm so that there is ready commute, since the towns really stop working after 530pm.

14. Driving directions from Kolkata to Kalimpong (link to article)

Photo Galleries (external):
1. Photo Gallery at world66. com (link)
2. Kalimpong.info's public gallery (link)
3. Many photos from Anuj (link)
4. Photos of Kalimpong at Flickr (link)
5. Kalimpong Photos at trekearth (link)
6. High Street in Kalimpong, India (link)

Videos of Kalimpong on Youtube:

1. Kalimpong Videos, West Bengal, India

2. Dr GRAHAM'S HOMES KALIMPONG

3. Kalimpong to Teesta Bridge

4. kalimpong mainroad

Siliguri - Gateway to North East India

2009-07-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

AREA : 6,227 sq. kms.
LATITUDE : 26° North
LONGITUDE : 88° East
ALTITUDE : 400.62 ft. Above Sea Level
Population : 258,000
STD Code : 0353
Best Tourist Season : April to Mid-June; Mid September to November
Best Mountain Views : Mid Sept. - Mid Dec.
Recommended Clothing : Light woollens and tropicals in summer (umbrellas and raincoats are useful) and heavy woollen in winter.
Language Spoken : Bengali, Hindi, Nepali and English
Weather : The weather and climate in Siliguri is fine throughout the year; temperature in summer being an average of 34.8 'C and the winter temperature being around 12.8 'C. The humidity in this region remains high throughout the year with an average of about 81 %.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the city is throughout the year except for the monsoon season that begins in June and lasts up to the end of September.

Silguri is the main commercial city of North Bengal and its importance comes from its strategic location near international and state borders. It is located on what is called the Chicken's Neck, a small width of territory that connects the main portion of India to its North-Eastern states. Siliguri is situated on the banks of the river Mahananda. The town is located on the foothills of the eastern half of the Himalayas, and is an important transportation, trading and educational center. Siliguri is the gateways to Darjeeling, Sikkim, Nepal, Dooars, Bhutan and most of the North-East states of India.

Siliguri is the commercial capital of North Bengal, Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh. There are a large number of tourists in Siliguri at any point of time, with over 5 lakh domestic and 15000 foreign visitors, excluding the people of Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal, who visit Siliguri regularly both for business as well as for leisure.

Siliguri is the major trade centre for the North-East and eastern Nepal; cycle-rickshaws dominate the roads and there are large number of buses and jeeps plying to different tourist destinations of the region. The main national highways of this region pass through Siliguri. Bus services to all the neighboring places and states is available from Siliguri. Bus services to Bhutan are also there from Siliguri.

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Siliguri being the junction, accomodation is easily available here with price ranges from expensive to nominal. Restaurants are also available in plenty. Siliguri also gives the pleasure of marketing specially the foreign stuffs. Siliguri apart from being a junction also offers some places in its surroundings to visit and relax. You can visit the tea gardens, monastries, hills, forests and many more..... . You can also visit the different beautiful picnic spots around Siliguri.

How to get there ?
By Road : Siliguri is the main city in the plains by the Tenzing Norgay Road (formerly Hill Cart Road).
By Bus: Bus services between Siliguri and Calcutta are frequent.
By Rail: New Jalpaiguri/Siliguri Junction stations at the base of the Darjeeling Hill areas have direct railway connections with Calcutta, Mumbai, Guwahati, Madras, Lucknow, and Delhi.
By Air: By air to Bagdogra (Siliguri), from where you need to go by road to Siliguri. Indian Airlines as well as private airlines operate on this route.

Places to Visit In and Around Siliguri
1. Nature Interpretation Centre : Mahananda Wild Life Sanctuary Nature is presented as an exhibition. Entry permit for Mahananda weir, Sukna are issued.
2. Mahananda Weir wild life Sanctuary, Sukna : 18 km from Siliguri, a place, deep inside forest & nature a good picnic spot.
3. Madhuban Park : A park, developed by Indian Army, is an excellent picnic spot.
4. Umrao Singh Boat Club, Sukna : Umrao Singh Boat Club, Sukna, a Boat Club, developed by Indian Army. Different size & shapes of boats are available for tourists.
5. Passing through Tea Gardens : The trip passing through tea gardens provides an excellent view which everybody can cherish for a long time to come. One can see tea processing also by making prior arrangements.
6. Salugara Monastery : His Eminence Kalu Rinpoche constructed a one hundred foot stupa, which contains five types of relics and is an object of veneration which will bring liberation to any one who sees it.
7. Kalchakra Monastery : Kalchakra was 1st time organized in Salugara in December '96and is one of the most religious nerve centre of Budhdhist religion.
8. Teesta view Point at Sevoke : The Teesta river is the life line of the Sikkim and Darjeeling Himalayas. One can get a good amount of bird watching at this place.
9. Kali Mandir : Kali Mandir, a Hindu Temple near Sevoke, an abode of the living goddess Kali. The famous Kali Mandir is visited by many newly wedded couples seeking the blessing of the Goddess Kali for a happy married life.
10. Monkey Point : Before reaching Coronation Bridge, you will run into groups of friendly monkeys. These monkeys can be hand-fed items such as bread, bananas etc.
11. Coronation Bridge : Between Salugara & Kalijhora is the Sevoke Bridge, built in 1930, a relic of British Excellence in design & architecture. This is about 23 km from the city on way to Gangtok/Kalimpong and Dooars on the National Highway 31.
12. Consumer Goods Market : Seth Srilal Market and Hill Cart Road have some big consumer goods shops, which stock large varieties of mercantile. The people of North Bengal, Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh regularly visit Siliguri for Purchasing. Prices are competitive and bargaining is negligible.
13. Railway Exhibition : For seeing Steam Engines of narrow gauge , a relic of British Raj, one can visit Siliguri Junction.
14. Art Gallery : Regular art exhibitions are being held in Siliguri. The most important and regular site of Art Exhibition is Dina Bandhu Manch.
15. ISKCON Hare Krishna Mandir : A temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The ISKCON CENTRE in Siliguri is being labelled as the biggest Krishna Centre in the whole of the North East. Lord Krishna had gone into hiding in the jungles of Baikunthapur with Rukmini at one time so Siliguri was the first choice of Iskcon for making this biggest Krishna Centre in the North East.
16. Fulbari barrage: Typically a barrage means that a water body is formed, and the sam is the case over here. Located about 15 km from Siliguri on the Siliguri-Jalpaiguri national highway is a small but beautiful artificial water body - Fulbari. The main attraction here is that, Mahananda, the most important river of Siliguri forms a huge marshy land which provides ideal nestling place for migratory water fouls like Rudy shell, Mallard, open bull stork and much more.

Where to stay in Siliguri ?
You can take your pick from a range of luxury and budget hotels in Siliguri besides star categorized accommodation. The various hotel packages offer the best of facilities. The well-furnished rooms place most of the comforts at your feet.

Hotel Sinclairs, P.O. Pradhan Nagar (link)
Hotel Heritage, Hill Cart Road, Pradhan Nagar
Hotel Gateway, Sevoke Road
Hotel Cindrella, Sevoke Road, 3rd Mile, Box No. 88
Viramma Resorts & Hotels, Hill Cart Road
Hotel Vinayak, Opposite Tourist Office
Hotel Apollo, NH 31, Mallaguri, PO Pradhannagar, Siliguri, India
Hotel Tourist Inn, Opp. P.C. Mittal Bus Terminus, Siliguri 734001, India
Hotel Conclave
Hotel Dolly Inn

Photo Links / Galleries:

1. Djingen Photography: Kolkata to Siliguri by train (link)
2. Siliguri Jn. Railway station (link)
3. Photos of Sikkim and Siliguri (link)
4. sunset on mahananda bridge siliguri (link)
5. Siliguri Photos at trekearth.com (link)
6. Photos of Siliguri at Flickr.com (link)

Videos of Siliguri from Youtube.com:

MAHANANDA BRIDGE, Siliguri

Siliguri City Ride

River-Teesta on way Siliguri to Gangtok

In Siliguri, Life has Symmetry

Siliguri Children's Park: Bringing Out the Child in You

Siliguri Crafts Beauty

Lonavala - Hills of Sahyadris in India

2009-07-23T10:15:00.000-07:00

Lonavala is a beautiful and charming Hill Station at a height of 625 Meters above sealevel. It is without any doubt blessed by nature's beauty. The hill Station is only 128 Kms from Mumbai and around 70 kms from Pune, and is one of the favored hill stations and weekend getaways for people from Mumbai.

The best Season to visit Lonavala is throughout the year, except perhaps May when it can get warmer.
* October to March is ideal for sight seeing, with the best weather.
* April is bit warm, but suitable for outings, but as you get to May, it gets hotter.
* June to September offers some great views of natural beauty of Lonavala in the rainy season with rainfall all around, and can be a good time to visit if you like to look at natural settings when water is pouring all around, and the overall feel is soft and romantic.

Population : 50,000
Languages : Marathi, Hindi and English

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Set in the lush green hills of the Sahyadris, Lonavala is the most popular weekend destination from Mumbai and Pune. For a lot of people, it is a regular outing from the busy life in hectic cities, and there are no problems in going to the same place again and again. Lonavala is known as the Jewel of the Sahyadri; if you look at what all it offers, the praise seems justified - it offers the tourist pristine woods and valleys, gurgling and gushing waterfalls, historic caves, and many scenic vistas.
Historically, Lonavala has been there for many centuries, with the surroundings hills being the stronghold of the Maratha rulers, in their fights against the Moghuls and later the British. The Maratha warriors practised guerrilla warfare from here in their battles against these sets of enemies. However, now Lonavala is the epitome of peace and tranquility, with a lot of rich and famous people having setup holiday homes here for their use as a rest away from the city.
Lonavala also provides thrills of adventure sports in terms of rock climbing, including rock climbing at Duke's Nose.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS :
- Karla & Bhaja Caves: These rock-cut cave temples date back to the 2nd century BC and are amongst the oldest and finest examples of Buddhist rock cut temple art in India; they belong to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
- Rajmachi Point: Located about 6.5 km from Lonavla. Why is it famous ? It is famous for the view; this point commands a magnificent view of Shivaji's famous fort, Rajmachi (Royal terrace) and the surrounding valley.
- Ryewood Park and Shivaji Udyan: The stunning gardens are amongst the favorite picnic spots of the children, owing to the soaring trees and spacious open spaces provided by them.
- Valvan Dam : Located about 2 km from Lonavla. Located at the foot of the dam is a blooming garden, adorned with a wide variety of colorful flowers and other plants, which attracts a number of tourists.
- Tungarli Lake : The lovely Tungarli Lake supplies water to Lonavla town. There are no buses to the site, but taxis and autorickshaws are available from Lonavla Station (3 km).
- Lonavala Lake : The tranquil surroundings and serene atmosphere offered by the Lonavla Lake are enough to lure tourists here. The lake is also visited by a number of birds, making it a bird watcher’s delight.
- Duke's Nose : It stands 12 km from Lonavla, it is the finest landmark in Khandala and is popular with hikers. The cliff owes its name to the Duke of Wellington, whose famous and ample nose it resembles.
- Tiger's Leap : It is a cliff-top with a sheer drop of over 650 m. The magnificent view from Tiger's Leap is enthralling.
- Christian Cemetery : It is worth a visit for the century old tombstones with work on them. However, as happens in a number of such places, vandals have been at them, with most of them having been desecrated and their precious engravings stolen.
- Bushi Dam : During the monsoons, the dam fills with water and the water overflows on the 'steps'. People can sit on these steps and get wet. There are also a few waterfalls around.
- Lohagad Fort : Lohagad (literally 'Iron fort' in Marathi) is one of the many hill forts of Chatrapati Shivaji. It is situated 52 km from Pune in western India. Lohagad is at an elevation of 3,450 feet. A robust climb of about 11.2 km from Malavali Railway Station takes you to the 'Iron Fort', once a formidable battle-station of Shivaji. The fort commands a view of the surrounding hills and hamlets.
- Yoga Center: Lonavala has a Yoga center that provides

How to get there ?
Air: The nearest airport from Lonalvala is Pune, which is 64 km from Lonavala.
Train: Lonavala is on the main railway line between Mumbai and Pune, all express trains plying between the two cities stop here.
Road:The bus service between Lonavala and Pune is good (2 hours). However, the ride is rough and it takes 4 hours to reach Lonavala from Mumbai. Buses shuttle between Lonavala and Khandala (5 km from Lonavala; 15 minutes trip).

PLACES TO STAY
- Fariyas Holiday Resort
- Treasure Island Resorts
- Velvett Country
- Dukes Retreat
- Kumar Resort
- Swiss Resorts
- Sahil Sarovar Protico
- The Upper Deck Resort
- Hotel Whispering Brook
- Basilica Holiday Home
- La Exotica Resort
- Biji's Hill Retreat
- The Lagoona Resort
- Orchard Resort
- Country side Inn

External articles / blogs:

1. Ayushveda.com (link)

Tourists to West India often make it a point to include Lonavala referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Sahyadri Mountains’, in their itinerary. Trekkers, campers, hikers throng the hill station while leisure travelers account for the majority of the footfall. It is also fast emerging as a preferred choice of honeymooners. Most part of the year is good to visit Lonavala as it sports pleasant climate.

2. Placesnearpune.com (link). Some great photos of scenery, greenery and waterfalls.

Lions view point was easily the best part of my lonavala trip. The moment you reach the edge of the cliff after walking across the road, you just cannot avoid saying “wow!”. The view is majestic and panoramic. You would see dozens of small waterfalls all over the place with one waterfall pretty prominent in the view.

3. Monsoon trek (link)

On the two hour train journey, we passed Lonavala and Khandala and almost as many waterfalls as the tunnels we went through.

4. Tale India (link)

Lonavala is not only about the picturesque sights and salubrious climate but it is also home to some of the finest places of tourist interest. The most outstanding among the tourist attractions in Lonavala are the Buddhist rock cut caves of Bhaja and Karla located in close vicinity of this hill station. On your trip to Lonavala, you must not miss out on these caves since they offer interesting insight into the development of Buddhism in the region.

5. Trek to Twin forts of Lohagad-Visapur & Bhajje caves near Lonavala (link)

Lohagad: This is one of the most interesting forts to visit as it still has its fortification and doorways in pristine condition. The fort dates back to the Satvahan Era and was mainly used to keep a watch on the trade route passing through the Sahyadris.

6. Lonavala's secret destinations (link)

Yet, the hidden beauty of the city can be revealed only after a chat with localites. One such place is the Karala caves, which are approximately eight kilometers from Lonavala. The cheapest mode of transport to reach this fabulous place is bus service, which will drop you in 10 minutes to the site. Or else you can also take an auto rickshaw, easily available in the city.

7. Discover India (link)

The must visiting sites in Lonavala during your trip are as follows -
First, there is the Rye Wood Park near the rail way station which is famous for its dense forest of many big and beautiful trees. During the season it attracts tourists with variety of flowers.

8. Lonavala Excursions: A Visit at the 5 Historic Caves (link)

Bhaja Caves are located at the center of Lohagad Fort and Visapur Fort. These caves are mush smaller with a Chaitya style. Tourists should take a 250 feet climb to get into the caves. There are 18 rock cut caves as old as since the 2nd century. The first cave is the place of the master architect and ten were reserved for the viharas for priests. The other seven caves have an inscription concerning its donors. A beautiful waterfall is seen at the end.

9. Wonderful Attractions In Lonavala (link)

The Gambhirnath Caves is the most exciting natural attraction. The adventure lovers will enjoy it here This area lies between Thakarwadi and Monkey Hill while departing towards Mumbai. Everyone may reach this location after experiencing some sorts of annoyance. Tourists will get the chance to climb atop the hill. The path will be narrow but is still worth trying for experience.

10. Enjoy the cool and lush greenery of Lonavala (link)

Start your day with a visit to the Karla Caves where you can look at some ancient ruins and Buddhist carvings. Not a very crowded place, it will give you ample time to explore it in a better way. The Chaitya caves are also a must-see. You can also go trekking to the Bhaja caves, which is situated next to Karla caves. The rocks date back to 2nd century BC and make up many temples.

11. A whole new life (link)

For people who are looking for a good place to stay try MTDC resorts Karla - The cottages are good much better than highly priced hotel rooms , the only drawback is the distance from the main city - but its a good place to just relax & enjoy the rains...

12. Maverick - The thought begins (link)

The scenic beauty was amazing, all the mountains were lush green, and covered by clouds and it was raining consistently to add on to the beauty of the weather. As we were heading towards the Tiger Waterfall, the fogs became more dense

13. Pen Shots (link)

Ryewood Park is a picturesque hang out in the hill station Lonavala and is located very close to Lonavala market. This Park has plenty of grounds with greenish lawns and playing grounds for children. The Park is blessed with many varieties of trees which are decades old. It was a botanical garden and later converted to a Park.

14. Visit to Karla Caves, Lonavala (link)

Admired the symmetrical architecture of the place which was built in 2nd or 3rd Century. The stupa inside the cave is a very common feature in the Buddhist rock cut caves in India

15. Journeys explored (link)

Further reached Lonavala almost at noon. Grabbed up almost anything be with melons, chikkis etc..to suffice our hungry, thirsty souls.

16. Pune to Loanavala (link)

after some thoughts we went for Lonavala and thankfully it turned out to be a worthwhile decision. A wonderful ride for someone in Pune looking out for a decent biking experience. Mind you it is a bit risky, we were lucky not to get into any accident but next time if I am gonna go that route it would be in day time and with some more preparation.

17. Trek, Trips and Adventures (link)

Korigad predates 1500 A.D. and Shivaji Maharaj included this fort in Swarajya along with Lohgad, Visapur, Tung and Tikona in 1657 and in 1818 Marathas lost it to the British. There is Ganesh Darwaaja half way to the top with idol of Lord Ganesh in small rock cave and big cave near it.

18. My Trip To Lonavla (link)

While going through the old highway there were three things which stuck me most. First being the countryside around me it was beautiful. I have almost visited all the hill stations in northern India so small cliffs now dont entice me so much but i was awestuck by the sights i saw in a cloudy evening.

Photos:

1. Photos of a trip to Lonavala (link)
2. Photos of Lonavala on Flickr (link)
3. The Lion Valley, Lonavala (link)
4. Loanavala Photo Gallery on world66.com (link)
5. Photos at sulekha.com (link)
6. Photo of Karla caves near Lonavala (link)
7. Lonavala in monsoons (link)
8. Photos of famous tourist spots (link)
9. Lonavala: Korigad and Kune falls: Amby Valley: Entrance (link)

Some videos shared by people about Lonavala on Youtube:

1. Lonavala Trip

2. Another Lonavala Trip

3. Lonavala- one of the best trip

4. Lonavala trip waterfall (at Tiger Falls)

5. Team picnic at Lonavala

6. Lagoona Resort Lonavala (link)

7. Ola Lonavala! 26 types of National Chikki (link)

8. The Machan - A Tree House, Lonavala

9. Amby Valley - Sahara City Lonavala

Gangtok - "the lofty hill" in Sikkim in North-East India

2009-07-16T22:46:00.000-07:00

General Information :
- Altitude: 1600 meters.
- Language: Nepali, Sikkimese, Bhutia, Lepcha, Hindi, English.
- Best time to visit: Gangtok enjoys a gentle, moderate climate all year through. Mercury levels range from an average maximum of 22°C in summer (March to June) to an average minimum of 4°C in winter during December to February. Best time to visit is September to March.

All good things in life come in small packets and Gangtok is a good illustration. Be it the rich flora, the beautiful people, or the serene Buddhist monasteries, this small town, occupies an important position in the itinerary of tourists in search of tranquility from the humdrum of modern life. The eastern state of Sikkim lies couched between the borders of Nepal and Bhutan. Gangtok became the capital of the state in the 19th century and lies to the south of the district of East Sikkim. It is a hilly town and spreads down the western side of a long ridge flanking the Ranipul River.

Location of Gangtok on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

Tourist Maps of Gangtok and Sikkim (link,
Gangtok In and Around Map (link)

An air of enchantment hangs over the city, indeed the whole valley; the mysticism, the stupas, the monasteries reach out as soon as one has crossed the border. While across the hills and valleys comes the sounding of the long trumpets by robed lamas.

Places to Visit :
1. Do Drul Chorten : It is regarded as the most important ’stupa’ of Sikkim. This stupa also has sacred gold-topped shikhara with 108 prayer wheels.
2. ENCHEY MONASTERY : The Enchey monastery literally means the solitary temple. This place especially attracts attention during the religious dances or ’Chaam’ performed in January.
3. Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology : The institute promotes research on Mahayana Buddhism.
4. Pemayangtse Monastery : This Monastery is located at the hill top and gives a wonderful view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills of the region.
5. Government Institute Of Cottage Industries : t was established with the purpose of promoting the manufacture and sale of local handicrafts. Thankas (also spelt as Thangkas), hand carved wooden tables - known as Choksees and exquisitely woven woolen carpets.
6. Lachung : This is the area inhabited by the Lachungpas, a hardy mountain people who consider themselves quite different from the Bhutias and the Tibetans. The lush green, terraced hillsides, even in winter, were a testimony to the grit and determination of these people.
7. Phurchachu Reshi Hot Springs : These springs are considered holy as one of the four holy caves is located here. This holy cave is called the "Kadosangphu" or 'Cave of the occult fairies' and lies on the south of the four cardinal points.
8. Orchid Sanctuary : The sanctuary is famous for its rare and extensive collection of orchids.
9. Namgyal Institute : Namgyal Institute was built in the year 1958 to promote research in Mahayan Buddhism and Tibetan language and traditions.
10. Tsuk La Khang : A depository of a large collection of scriptures, this is the principal place of worship and assembly for the local Buddhists. The Tsuk la Khang is also characterised by the beautiful and impressive building with mural covered interior, lavishly decorated altars or images of Buddha, bodhisattvas and Tantric deities and the many fine works of woodcarving.

Excursions from Gangtok :
1. Kabi Longstok : 25-km from Gangtok, here is a spot amidst tall trees, where the treaty of brotherhood between, the Lepcha Chieftan - Tetong Tek and the Tibetan chief Khye Bhumsa was signed.
2. Changu Lake : 35-km from Gangtok.
3. Chungthang : 95-km from Gangtok.
4. Ganesh Tok : 7-km from Gangtok.
5. Hanuman Tok : 11-km from Gangtok.
6. Menmecho Lake : 20-km from Gangtok.
7. Phoodong Monastery : 40-km from Gangtok.
8. Tashi View Point : 8-km from Gangtok.
9. The Ipecac Garden : 14-km from Gangtok,
10.Yumthang : 149-km from Gangtok.
11.Yumthang Hot Springs : 135-km from Gangtok.
12.Nathula : It is a mountain pass situated about 56 km from Gangtok at an altitude of about 14,200 ft and is covered with rich varieties of alpine flora and fauna.

Places To Stay In Gangtok
1. Heritage Hotels
* Norkhill Heritage Hotel, Paljor Stadium Road
* Himalayan Heights Hotel, Palzor Stadium Road
2. Luxury Hotels
* Royal Plaza Hotel
* Hotel Tashi Delek (4 Star), Mahatma Gandhi Marg
* Nor-Khill Hotel (4 Star), Paljor Stadium Road
* Hotel Dew Pond (3 Star), P.S. Road
* Hotel Central (3 Star), 31A, National Highway
* The Oriental (3 Star), Mahatma Gandhi Marg
3. Deluxe Hotels
* Hotel Rigwa, M.G. Marg
* Orange Village
* Sidlon Residency
* Hotel Sonam Palgey
* Shambhala Mountain Resort
* New Castle
* Chumbi Residency
* Hotel Rendezvous

How to reach there ?
- Nearest Airport Bagdogra Airport (16km)
- Nearest Train Stations New Jalpaiguri (124 km)
- Main Road Highways NH 31A

External articles:

1. Long journey - section of Gangtok (link): Bike journey with photos of difficulties
2. Sikkim’s Gangtok: The Place where great journeys begin (link)

Sikkim is bounded by Bhutan to its east, Nepal to its West and China to its north. The southern boundary is shared with the state of West Bengal. The topography of Sikkim is such that the entire state is covered with beautiful hills and mountains. Not just a tourism destination, it is also a paradise for naturalist and environmentalists owing to its wealth of flora and fauna. There have been many expeditions related to zoological and botanical research leading to the discovery of a number of plants and animals. It is also the spiritual center for Buddhists all over the world and has around 250 monasteries, each having its own peculiar history and traditions.

3. Hotels in Darjeeling and Gangtok (link)
4. Forum post on trip to Darjeeling (link1, link2, link3)
5. Gaga about Gangtok (link)

Our first stop was at the Rumtek Monastery. The Monastery consists of the main shrine-temple, a retreat centre, a monastic college (Shedra), a nuns’ hostel, some stupas, a protector’s shrine, and some other establishments for the community. I was awed by the vibrant basic colors of the walls, festoons, and chandeliers in the monastery.

6. adventures of mak & mainu (link): Many photos of Gangtok as well

So there we were finally, the long awaited Gangtok. Saw the sikkimese people with their chic clothes and finest shoes, supposed to be brought in from china. We checked-in to Sonam Palgey hotel, touted to be one of the best in the area, located right under the Gangtok ropeway. After a warm shower and some rest we went out to explore the area. Started with the Rumptek Monastery, seeing the monks in their maroon robes reminded me of those Dalai Lama movies, the peaceful serenity of the monastery was capturing.

7. Gangtok Hill Station (link)

Gangtok in Sikkim is well connected by roads, rail and air transport. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra in West Bengal. There are helicopter services from Bagdogra to Sikkim. The nearest railhead is at New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal, which is connected by regular trains from different cities in India. One can easily reach Gangtok by road from the airport and the railway station. The city is connected with West Bengal by all weather roads which connect Siliguri and Kalimpong in West Bengal with Sikkim.

8. Love to travel (link)

The nearest train station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri which has direct connections to New Delhi, Kolkata, and other major cities in India. It is a 10-12 hour journey from Kolkata. From New Jalpaiguri, you can either hire a taxi from the station itself or take an auto-rickshaw to the Siliguri bus stand. From there, you have the option of traveling to Gangtok by state bus, roughly a 5-6 hour journey.

9. Alistair D'Souza (link)

Gangtok is 140 km from Bagdogra Airport. You can take a vehicle from the airport to gangtok. No need of booking anything in advance.

10. Travelling India (link)
11. One step closer to Freedom (link)

The road to Gangtok was really breathtaking. Its surely a must try. But today, it had a lot of traffic snarls with the mud and rocks still being cleared with bulldozers. In one place, we were held up for almost an hour. Maybe there was a landslide here last night, I wondered. But the delay there, gave me a unique oppurtunity to take photos of the Kanchenjunga peak which was slowly coming out of the clouds. Let me tell you one thing. The first time you see a mountain peak for real is very special. I have seen many photos of this peak before. But only when you stand here, you get to see the relative size of the peak with everything else around you. That, my friend, you can't get in a photo. For people like me from the plains, its truly a breathtaking experience to see a mountain peak.

12. Travel & Work, Work & Travel (link). Some great photos of Gangtok.

To my amazement, and utter joy, she stayed for a bit. And then she also rubbed up against the fence and I got a chance to touch the soft, soft fur. That touch seemed to have lasted, because for the next minute or so she pushed into the fence, and I dug my fingers further into her fur. Behind her ear, on her shoulder blades, neck, even (and I admit my foolishness in going this far) but was able to pet her underbelly a bit.

13. Destination Gangtok (link)

The tourist attractions in Gangtok include museums, monasteries and quaint surroundings. The Deer Park is a must-see tourist spot commanding a breathtaking view of the valleys neighboring the city of Gangtok against the backdrop of the elegant Mt. Kanchenjunga. The park is home the rare red panda and the Himalayan Bear. Dul Dul Chortena also features among the popular tourist attractions in Gangtok that was built under the direction of the late most respected Rimpoche and is a place of worship for the Tibetan Buddhists.

14. Discover India (link)

The inhabitants of Gangtok are chiefly dependent on tourism, which is the most important occupation for the residents. A number of superior international standard hotels have turn up in the recent years to cater the escalating demand of tourists. All these hotels are extravagantly built and decorated and offer service which is a combination of conventional hospitality along with modern professionalism.

15. Guide to Gangtok (link)

The name Gangtok is derived from the Tibetan word for 'hillside,' and the city currently has a population of around 80,000 - a mixture of indigenous Sikkimese and people of Lepcha,Bhutia Nepalese and Tibetan ancestry along with people from across India settled and engaged in trade and business activities.

16. Adrian Cycling across Sikkim (link)

I'm now in Gangtok, which seems a very pleasant place so far. It's got a wide pedestrianised main street with no litter. This is a first for me in India (outside of shopping malls) and it's very nice. I'm not sure how they enforce it – I suspect large fines and men with sticks. Sikkim is noticeably quite wealthy, which I believe is partly because the Indian government put lots of money into their economy to lure them away from any loyalty to China.

Photos of Gangtok:

1. Gangtok city view on rope way (link)
2. Gangtok picture gallery at India Travelinfo (link)
3. Photos of Gangtok on Slideroll (link)
4. Many photos of Gangtok at SikkimInfo (link)
5. Photos of Gangtok at oktatabyebye.com (link)
6. Gangtok Photo Collection (link)
7. Photos of Gangtok on Flickr (link)

Videos detailing different experiences in Gangtok:

Surviving in Gangtok in Rs 3,000

Gangtok town

How to Get Lost Two backpackers: part 2 of 7: India (Sikkim, Gangtok, Kolkata)

Gangtok - Sikkim - India

Gangtok: A Beautiful Memory

Gangtok calling: This video was taken en route to gangtok when i was about to reach Teesta.

Gangtok: The land of Mystic Splendor

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hf9lYFp1r6A

Beautiful Snow Fall in Gangtok (26.05.2009)

Gangtok (Sikkim) Road Trip

Gangtok Videos, Sikkim, India

Helicopter ride from Bagdogra to Gangtok: Beautiful experience flying over the Himalayas

Darjeeling - Land of Thunderbolts in East India

2009-07-16T21:39:00.000-07:00

Darjeeling conjures visions of serenity, of vibrant green hills steeped in splendour, a land of breathtaking beauty crowned by the majestic Himalayas.
Darjeeling is one of the most magnificent hill resorts in the world. This heavenly retreat is bathed in hues of every shade. The flaming red rhododendrons, the sparkling white magnolias, the miles of undulating hillsides covered with emerald green tea bushes, the exotic forests of silver fir - all under the blanket of a brilliant azure sky dappled with specks of clouds, compellingly confounds Darjeeling as the QUEEN OF HILL STATIONS.

General Information :
- Area 11.44 sq.kms
- Altitude 2134 m
- Best Season March to mid June & September to mid December
- Clothing Summer - Light woollens, Winter - Heavy woollens
- Languages Spoken English, Nepali, Bengali, Hindi, Tibetian

Location of Darjeeling on maps.google.com:

View Larger Map

Map of Darjeeling at astrainfotech.com (link)
Another map at Darjeelingnews.net (link)

How to Reach there ?
- By Air : The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra about 94-96 kms away from Darjeeling. Tourists heading for Darjeeling can get direct taxis/cabs to Darjeeling from Bagdogra or one can head towards Siliguri first and get a transport there. There are a number of transport facilities available from Siliguri.
- By Train : The closest Railway Station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) about 88 kms away from Darjeeling. Once in NJP one can avail of taxis directly to Darjeeling or take an auto-rickshaw or rickshaw upto Siliguri and thus proceed to Darjeeling by getting a taxi.
- By Road : Darjeeling is connected to Sikkim, Nepal, Bhutan and all of its surrounding hills. The major access to Darjeeling is via Siliguri which is connected to all the major cities.

Darjeeling - the name is derived from the Tibetian word 'Dorje' which means the precious stone or ecclesiastical sceptre, which is emblematic of the thunderbolt of Indra, and 'ling' - a place, hence the land of the thunderbolt. Darjeeling tea, which is one of the most exported items from the city, occupies a place of pride in the entire world for its fresh aroma and taste . The city is a paradise for trekkers and is one of the most sought after cities for adventure lovers.

MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS :
1. Ghoom : The renowned Yiga Choeling Monastery dominates the hillock. While visiting the monastery you must check out the images of Maitreya Buddha. Then there are the ancient palm leaf and paper manuscripts in Tibetan script too, of much interest to the historians.
2. Museum of Natural History : The museum boasts of a fine collection of Himalayan animals, reptiles, birds and insects.
3. Tiger Hill: It is situated at an altitude of about 2590 m and gives a magnificent view of the sunrise over the Kanchanjunga hills.
4. Kalimpong: This city is located near Darjeeling at an altitude of about 1250 m and has many places of tourist attractions like Kalibari, Kalimpong market, Gouripur House, Golf Course, Pedong Monastery, and Rishyap.
5. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: he institute was established in 1954 by the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in the wake of the conquest of Everest.
6. Mirik : he hill station of Mirik is a marvelous retreat for the sun-scorched souls of the plains. In Mirik you have to see and experience the magnificence of the mighty Himalayas in the Sumendu Lake. The tea gardens and the orange orchards are the other places of interest in Mirik.
7. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park : It is the only center in India for the breeding of the rare snow leopard.
8. Darjeeling-Rangit Valley Passenger Cable Car: Popularly known as the ropeway, it is situated at North Point. It is the oldest passenger ropeway and connects Darjeeling with Singla Bazaar at the bottom of the valley.
9. Kurseong: This city near Darjeeling is located at an altitude of about 1458 m and is famous for its scenic beauty with peace and tranquility all around.
10. The Mall: The Mall, like many other hill stations, is Darjeeling’s popular commercial street, full of tourists and people selling stuff to these tourists. It has shops with Tibetans selling hand-knitted sweaters and souvenir shops chock-full of Himalayan artifacts and both real and imitation antiques. Photo shops carry turn-of-the-century photos as well as specialising in hand-painted black and white prints with glowing oil colours.

Darjeeling - Adventure Sports
he breathtaking panoramic views of Everest and Kanchenjunga have been alluring thousands of nature lovers from different parts of the world since then. Treks in this region are organized through both high and low altitude areas.

Toy Train ride to Darjeeling
This joy ride begins at New Jalpaiguri.
Leaving New Jalpaiguri station, the train passes through the outskirts of Siliguri town and reaches Siliguri station.
After a short halt the train leaves Siliguri station and crosses the Mahanadi bridge over the Mahanadi river which flows from the Himalayan foothills.
After six miles train reaches Sukna station from where the real ascent begins.
The train now passes through Rangtang station (1404 ft/430 m) and a little further away the train may stop for water again.
It then passes Chunbhati.
Then the train passes the Tindharia Railway workshop to reach Tindharia station (2,822 feet/860m).
Leaving Tindharia one can see the jagged rock-faced mountains up ahead called Giddapahar (Eagle's Craig) which the train later has to pass through.
After this station the train stops for water near Pagla Jhora.
Shortly after this the train reaches Mahanadi Bazar station (4,000 ft/1,225m). Leaving Mahanadi the train travels west through Gidhapahar (Eagle's Craig) with an excellent view of the valley, the hills and tea gardens and reaches Kurseong station.
Now the train reaches Tung (5656 ft/1725m) which gives us an excellent view of the Kurseong ridge.
The journey new leads through Sonada.
The train now passes through a small town called Jorebunglow.
The train now reaches Ghoom (7407 ft/2260 m) the highest point of the journey. Leaving Ghoom the train descends towards Darjeeling.
On the way the train passes through Batasia Loop with its memorial to the Gorkha soldiers.

Places To Stay In Darjeeling :
Heritage Hotels
- New Elgin.
- Hotel Windamere.
- Fortune Resort Central (Heritage Hotel).
Premium Hotels
- May Fair Hill Resort.
- Cedar Inn.
- Himalayan resort.
- Gymkhana resort.
- Hotel Sinclairs.
Budget Hotels
- Alice Villa.
- Dekeling Resort.
- Shangrila Regency.
- Hotel Ivanhoe.
Tea Estates
- Glenburn Tea Estate.
- Makaibari Tea Estate.

External articles / blogs:

1. Darjeeling sight-seeing tour (link)

Every year from the month of April to June and September to December tourists flock in this beautiful hill station to enjoy holidays in splendor. With sprawling tea gardens, fruits orchards, cardamom plantation, exotic natural beauty, undulating slopes, exotic flora and fauna and Breathtaking scenery, Darjeeling never fails to lure visitors. Visit once and it is sure you will fall in love with its breathtaking scenery and the lovely weather condition of this beautiful hill station of India, Darjeeling.

2. Few photos of Darjeeling (link)

In India Darjeeling is a very beautiful place you cannot compare it to any other place. Darjeeling is famous for Buddhist temples and botanical gardens. There are many sightseeing places here. Large number of people attracted by the Kanchenjunga- snow-capped mountains. Tiger Hill which is at 8500ft. height is located 11 kms from Darjeeling. The sunrise over the Tiger Hill is a mesmerizing sight.

3. Kolkata-Sikkim-Darjeeling trip (link)

Our hotel was in the busy market place near the Mall road and we saw so many people here (mostly tourists) crowding the tiny shops with bags full of purchases! Not bad, huh? Shopping here was FUN!! So many things to buy and so less time! However we managed to buy some semi-precious stone jewellery and loads of woolen stuff!! Shawls were getting sold like hot cakes in almost all shops- trust me they were so good and affordable that it tempted me to buy 4!!

4. Explore tourism India with Darjeeling (link)

For centuries Darjeeling has been showing new dimensions to tourism India with its splendid landscapes, fresh mountains, eye catching sceneries and courteous people all around. Darjeeling is known as one of the most startling and magnificent hill resort with global fame. This exotic place is famous for its spectacular sunrise and sunset and glorious and sky-kissing mountains of Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.

5. Darjeeling, city in West Bengal (link)

Darjeeling is the holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists of the city. Tiger hill, a hill with a height of 2,600 meters, is the tallest hill in Darjeeling. It is visited by most visitors because it offers a perfect view of Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. Kanchenjunga is a beautiful hill station surrounded by many mountains and hills with chilled atmosphere due to which it is considered as summer capital.

6. Photos and information (link)

Ghoom is one of the major landmarks in Darjeeling. The renowned Yiga Choeling Monastery dominates the hillock. While visiting the monastery you must check out the images of Maitreya Buddha. Then there are the ancient palm leaf and paper manuscripts in Tibetan script too, of much interest to the historians. The Museum of Natural History is another tourist attraction in Darjeeling India. The museum boasts of a fine collection of Himalayan animals, reptiles, birds and insects.
For the botanist, an animal and nature lover Darjeeling offers several Tourist places of interest. At the Lloyd Botanical garden all tourists may enjoy the captivating collection of alpine flora and orchids. Darjeeling also has the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. The zoo happens to be the only center in India for the breeding of the rare snow leopard. The Ussurian tigers and the Himalayan black bear are also among its attractions.

7. ravings, cravings, etc (link)

Darjeeling is first and foremost a place for tourists. The tea industry comes next in terms of importance. But I seem to be guilty of the very thing that I am bemoaning. So I will correct myself: Darjeeling is first and foremost about its people and its vibrant admixture of cultures. This is the second reason for its once bustling tourism. The first reason is because of its climate.

8. indiamarks (link)

However a Taxi from Siliguri will not take you out for sight seeing once on the hills/or in the Darjeeling town ship. It is advisable to take a one way taxi from Siliguri into Darjeeling, and book a Taxi within Darjeeling for sight seeing and your journey back to Siliguri. Taxi-fares are standard, and are generally affixed on the rear wind shield of the vehicle. Share jeeps depart regularly, from several locations around town. They leave when full, and are a cheap, fast and reasonably comfortable way to get to Darjeeling.

9. inTechgrity.com (link)

Darjeeling is best seen by walk (ahem ahem). There is a market place with all the usual shops for woollen wear and stuff, not to mention an awesome looking INOX theater complex. And we watched Casino Royale there!! Seems like the single most important highlight of our trip to Darjeeling . If you ever want woolen clothes, best to buy it from here. Dirt cheap, bargains galore and the quality is not that bad either. Three places that were good and worth the while – the Peace Pagoda near the Japanese Temple, The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) and the Zoo! The pagoda was a treat to the eyes with the huge golden statues of Buddha at various milestones of his life.

10. More details of Darjeeling (link)

The history of Darjeeling is intertwined with that of Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim and Bengal. Until the early 19th century, the area around Darjeeling was ruled intermittently by the kingdoms of Nepal and Sikkim with settlement consisting of a few villages of Lepcha woods people. In 1828, a delegation of British East India Company officials on their way to Sikkim stayed in Darjeeling and decided that the region was a suitable site for a sanatorium for British soldiers. The Company negotiated a lease of the area from the Chogyal of Sikkim in 1835.Arthur Campbell, a surgeon with the Company and Lieutenant Napier (later Lord Napier of Magdala) were given the responsibility to establish a hill station there.

11. Go 2 Holiday in Darjeeling (link)

The Darjeeling Toy Train is a heritage railway line, which carries visitors on holiday up to Darjeeling. The train passes hill slopes covered with tea estates up to Ghoom, at 7407 feet, which is the highest stop on the railway line and then comes down to the hill resort of Darjeeling. On the way you can see Mt Kanchenjunga in the distance. The toy train was built by Franklin Prestage in 1888 and the tiny engine and coaches travel on a scenic route. The train moves at a slow pace so visitors can even hop off the train, admire the view, and catch up with the train again.

12. Gurkhafc.com (link)

The name Darjeeling comes from the word Dorje-ling,in which Dorje means “thunder” and Ling means “place” ,ie. “the place of thunderbolt”. It is also said that the word Darjeeling comes from “Dorjé-rinzing”, it is a name of a lama who founded the monastery which once stood on Observatory Hill.

13. matadorcommunity.com (link)

I finally arrived at my hotel and checked in and had a bite and chilled in my room for a bit. I was so happy to finally be here. I took a walk around the area for a bit and saw so many different faces. Asian, Bhutanese, Nepalese, Indian...they were all here. And the great thing is this is a place where alot of westerners come so I saw more white people in one hour than I have in the past 2 months. No one stared at me and I just reveled in the joy of being completely ignored! Was so awesome!

14. Another blog on Darjeeling (link)

This beautiful hill town is endowed with rolling hills, picturesque vistas, scenic natural beauty, sprawling tea gardens, lovely waterfalls and myriad places of tourist interest. It is the ideal destination for honeymooners, nature lovers, vacationers and adventure enthusiast. Every year quite in a good number tourists from all over the globe visit Darjeeling to grab its charming and splendid natural beauty. Come to this picture perfect town and it sure you will get lured with its magnetizing natural beauty.

15. Darjeeling sight-seeing tour (link)

Every year from the month of April to June and September to December tourists flock in this beautiful hill station to enjoy holidays in splendor. With sprawling tea gardens, fruits orchards, cardamom plantation, exotic natural beauty, undulating slopes, exotic flora and fauna and Breathtaking scenery, Darjeeling never fails to lure visitors. Visit once and it is sure you will fall in love with its breathtaking scenery and the lovely weather condition of this beautiful hill station of India, Darjeeling.

Photos of Darjeeling:
1. Darjeeling snapshots (link)
2. Various photos of Darjeeling (link)
3. Darjeeling and Sikkim (link)
4. travelsphoto.com (link)
5. Darjeeling Photo Gallery (link)
6. Photo Gallery of Darjeeling (link)
7. Darjeeling images / photos (link)

Video of Darjeeling toy train on Youtube:

Video of The Glory of Sunrise from Tiger Hill in Darjeeling:

Video of views of Darjeeling the Queen of the hills:

Video of downtown Darjeeling on Youtube:

Video of Darjeeling Tea Garden from a passing vehicle:

Kanyakumari - Southern tip of India

2009-07-11T03:25:00.000-07:00

- Total area of Kanyakumari: 1,685 square kilometers.
- Annual rainfall: 1,188.6 meters of rainfall.
- Maximum temperature goes to 35ºC and falls to a minimum of 21ºC.
- The nearest airport is about 87 kilometers away from Kanyakumari, located in Trivandrum (Kerala State).
- There are two railway junctions, Kanyakumari Junction and; Nagarcoil Junction.
- Bus terminus - 3; (i) Central and Express Bus Stand (ii) Anna Bus Stand and (iii) Christopher Bus Stand.

India, the sub-continental country is known for its richness in culture and tradition. For visualizing the geographic neighbors of India, the Northern side is bordered by the wide range of the huge snow clad Himalayas, the west by the Arabian Sea, and the East is covered by the Bay of Bengal. It is the southern side that is very unique as both these seas mingle with the Indian Ocean. The Land that is located in the tip of the country, where the three seas get united is none other than Cape Comerin or Kanyakumari.

Map of Kanyakumari on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

The name of this place has been christened after the virgin goddess – Kanyakumari Amman. As per mythology, Goddess Parvati under the disguise of Devi Kanniya did a penance in one of the rocks in this area to get the hand of Lord Shiva. Hence this place is also a popular pilgrimage. Kanyakumari and its surroundings are believed to be part of the land which was created by Parasurama, incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Folktales and mythological stories speak volumes about Kanyamymari.
In historical times, Kanyakumari was once referred to as the "ALEXANDRIA OF THE EAST". This place was a great centre for art, culture, civilization and pilgrimage for many years, in addition, it was also a famous centre for commerce and trade.
If you talk about modern Kanyakumari, some of the distinctive monuments are located on the sea; there are two rocks known as ‘twin rocks’. Each of them are distinctive and landmarks, both symbolizing the rich past of Indian heritage, having the monuments of swamy Vivekananda and Saint Thiruvalluvar.

Major tourist attractions:

Kumari Amman - The temple is located on the shore and is devoted to a manifestation of Parvati. The temple is located at a picturesque point, and commands a breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. The diamond nose ring of the deity can even be witnessed from the sea. The timings of visits to the temple are from 4.30 AM to 12.15 PM & 4.PM to 8.15 PM. Annual Festivals are the Car festival (May / June) and Navaratri (Nine Days) Festival (September / October). The temple can be very crowded at certain points.

Mahatma Gandhi Memorial - The monument was built on the spot where there is an urn that contained the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi before they were immersed into the river. The architecture of the temple is designed in a way so that the first rays of the sun fall exactly on the place where the ashes of this great personality were kept. Visting Hours are from 7 AM To 7 PM. Entrance is free for tourists.

Udaigiri Fort - The fort was built by King Marthanda Verma and has a factory where guns are manufactured. The splendid Padmanabhapuram Palace is a huge mansion of the Travancore Kings, recognized for its captivating artistic appeal.

Thiruvalluvar Statue - The pedestal of the statue is of 38 feet height and the statue located on the pedestal is 95 feet tall with a grand total height of 133 feet for the entire sculpture. The 3 tier pedestal known as Atharapeedam is surrounded by an artistic Mandapa known as Alankara Mandapam with 38 feet height. Surrounding the Alankara Mandapa stand 10 elephant statues, signifying 8 directions; the remaining 2 directions are with earth and space down. Visting Hours - 8 AM To 4 PM.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial - Essentially a sacred monument, built by the Vivekananda Rock Memorial Committee to commemorate the visit of Swamy Vivekananda to “Shripada Parai” during 24th, 25th and 26th December 1892 for deep meditation and enlightenment. Visting Hours - 7 AM To 4 PM.

Suchindrum - Suchindrum is a small village about 12 km. from Kanyakumari and about seven kilometres from Nagercoil. This holy place is located on the bank of the river Pazhayar, adjoining to fertile fields and coconut groves; the temple is dedicated to Sri Sthanumalayan. This word denotes Siva, Vishnu and Brahmma - Sthanu represents Siva, Mal represents Vishnu while Ayan represents Brhamma i.e. Siva, Vishnu and Brhamma in “One Form”.

Mathur Hanging Bridge - This bridge constructed in 1966, is the tallest as well as the longest trough bridge in Asia, having a height of 115 feet and a length of one kilometre.

St. Xavier Church - The church records show that the church was built in the year 1600 A.D. In the year 1865, the Church was enlarged and the shrine of our lady was also renovated and vaulted over. In 1930, the church was raised to the status of a Cathedral.

Padmanabhapuram Palace - It is one of the four municipalities in the district; 55 Km. south of Trivandrum, about two km. east of Thuckalay and 35 km. from Kanyakumari on the Trivandrum-Cape Comerin road. This town is surrounded by a fort with an area of 187 acres. The ancient capital of Travancore might be constructed before AD 1601. The palace with an area of seven acres, is situated in the very centre on the Padmanabhapuram Fort, amidst hills, dales and rivers. The palace which is situated in Kanyakumari District is under the control of a Curator of the Archaeological Department of Kerala Government.

Tirparappu Water Falls - The Kodayar makes its descend at Tirparappu and the water fall at this place, about 13km. from Pechiparai dam. The river bed is rocky and about 300 feet in length. The water falls from a height of nearly 50 feet and the water flows for about seven months in a year.

Muttom Beach - The famous beach at Muttom is located about 16 kms from Nagercoil and 32 kms from Kanyakumari. Muttom is famous for its beautiful landscaping and high rocks dipping into the sea at the beach-side. The sun set view point at Muttom is one of the most Panoramic view points in the district. Another attraction of Muttom is the century old light-house built by the British.

Vattakottai (Circular Fort) - A granite fort six kilometres north-east of Kanyakumari cape, forms the terminal of a line of ramparts known as the South Tranvancore lines built by Marthanda Varma to serve as defence for Nanjil Nadu. It is rectangular in shape and covers an area of about three and a half acres.

Peer Mohamed Dargah, Thuckalay (35 kms) - This dargah is named after Peer Mohamed Oliyullah, the great philosopher Mohamed Appa, who wrote many books on philosophy.

Sunrise and Sunset - Sunrise can be seen in Kanniyakumari through out the year at Bay of Bengal. Sunset can be seen from View Tower through out the year except the months of June, July and August.

Places to stay:
Hotel Parvathi Residency, Kanyakumari (link)
Hotel Singaar International (link)
Indienhermitage (link)
Hotel SeaView (link)
Hotel Cape Residency
Saagar Hotel
Melody Park Hotel.
Ashok Hotel

Reaching there

By Air: The nearest airport from Kanyakumari is situated at Trivandrum about 80 kms away.

By Rail: Kanyakumari is well connected by rail to major parts of the country.

By Road: Extensive road network connects Kanyakumari to other parts of the country.

External articles / blogs:

1. travelonthedollar.com (link): Has a few photos also

The oldest and the most ancient landmark in this town is the temple of Goddess Kumari who prayed to Lord Shiva to be accepted as wife by him. The name of this place has taken after the name of the Goddess. During the British Raj, it was also known as ‘Cape Comorin’, is probably a British spoilt version of ‘Kumari’, which mean virgin. The town is so small that an enthusiastic tourist may actually walk the entire length and breadth of the town and not shed a drop of sweat. Anyway, buses are available and the fares are rock bottom. The auto rickshaws fares are also very reasonable. In short, travelling in and around Kanyakumari is not expensive.

2. Indian Weatherman (link): Lots of photos

In 1609 AD Viswanatha Nayak of Madurai captured Kanyakumari. Afterwards there was no real threat to Venad Kings. Kanyakumari thus became an integral part of the Venad Empire with the capital at Padmanabhapuram. King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma(1729-1758) of Venad dynasty formed Travancore ( Modern Kerala) by extending his domain further north up to Aluva. Kanyakumari thus came to be known as Southern Travancore. In 1741, King Marthanda Varma another great king from the same dynasty overcame the Dutch East India Company forces at the fiercely fought "Battle of Colachel."

3. Video of Kanyakumari (link)
4. Post on triter.com (link)

Nearest airport from Kanyakumari is Trivandrum in the neighbouring state of Kerala. It takes about two hours by train or bus to go Kanyakumari from Trivandrum. Kanyakumari is well connected by rail to all major cities in India like Chennai, Trivandrum, Bombay, New Delhi, Kolkata, and Bangalore. Buses are frequently available from Thiruvananthapuram, the closest major transport hub. Long distance buses are available from Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai etc.

5. Nice Events on Blogspot.com (link)

Kanyakumari (also spelt as Kanniyakumari) order is contoured by Tirunelveli district in the northwestern and point, by Kerala denote in the northwest and confluence of Mount Sea and Soldier Ocean in the west and south. The coastline is nigh uniform eliminate for few points of come projects into the sea at Cape Comorin.

6. Post with great photos on indiaouting.com (link)

The temple of Goddess Kumari is rather small by South Indian standards, but comes with the usual ingredients of Pujaris (Hindu Priests), Poojas, Kumkums, and Prasads (sweet offerings made to Gods). All men are supposed to enter the temple with bare torsos as it deemed to be a mark of respect to the Devi. You should be careful about the touts in the temple.

7. miyzone on blogspot with some photos (link)
8. Photo of waves striking the rocks at Kanyakumari (link)
9. Post with great photos at oktatabyebye.com (link)

After lunch, we set out to see the Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial, by boat. There are regular ferry services from the jetty which is very close to the TTDC resort. We were lucky to get the last ferry, at 4.30 p.m. and were taken first to the Thrivallavur Statue, a famous Tamil poet of yester years. The statue is magnificent and stands tall on a rock near the Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial - the author of the philosophical work Tirukkural - a treatise on the Indian way of life.

10. Description of the Kanyakumari Temple (link)

he main entrance to the temple is through the northern gate though the deity is facing east. The eastern entrance is kept closed except on special occasions when the deity is taken out for ceremonial bath. Three corridors surround the sanctum. The outer corridor has no special shrines, but after a walk round it the devotees cross the 'Navarathiri mandapam' and a pathway leads to the second corridor encircling the shrine. There stands the flag mast or 'Kodisthambam'. From here you can have a clear view of the Goddess. A move further forward will take you in front of the sanctum.

11. Story on travelpod.com (link)

Swami Vivkeananda, also known as the wandering monk, travelled all over India. When he visited Kanyakumari in December 1892, he was drawn to the two rock islets which are the southernmost tip of India. He did not have money to hire a boat so he swam to the rocks. He meditated on the rock for three days and had a vision of one India. The main hall has a tall statue of Swami Vivekananda. The other hall is built around a foot shaped carving on the rock. According to folklore this is the foot print of goddess Kumari who stood on this rock on one foot in penance. There is also a meditation hall called Dhyana Mandapam.

12. Photos of sunrise at Kanyakumari (link)
13. Post on worldoftimepass.com (link)

Though there are several places of tourist-interest in the town and district, Kanyakumari is especially popular in India for its spectacular and unique sunrise and sunset. The confluence of three ocean bodies - the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea - makes the sunrise and sunset even more special. On balmy, full-moon evenings, (locally called Chitra Pournami) one can also see the moon-rise and sunset at the same time - on either side of the horizon.

14. Photos of the rocks at Kanyakumari (link)

How to plan ? Max time required for seeing whole Kanyakumari is 1 full day . Reach Kanyakumari by morning 5am and then complete sunrise (mostly at 6am; depends on seasons) and then get into prebooked hotel and complete breakfast and then visit Kanyakumari Temple , just beside the sunrise view point ; and then go for a trip to vivekananda memorial hall ( trip will be close to 2-3hrs) ;complete lunch and then you have option either to visit Padhmanabhapuram palace or go to some beaches near kanyakumari, watch sunset

15. Photos of Udaygiri Fort (link)

Photo Galleries:

1. Shunya.net Photos (link)
2. Kanyakumari Photos (link)
3. Photos of Kanyakumari at holidayiq.com (link)
4. MichaelJM's Kanyakumari Photos (link)
5. Great photos of Kanyakumari on Sulekha.com (link)
6. Photos of Kanyakumari on oktatabyebye.com (link)

Rishikesh- Tapo Bhumi or place of Meditation!

2009-06-29T22:36:00.000-07:00

Rishikesh is situated in the northern part of Uttarakhand in the laps of lower Himalayas, and is just 24 kms from Haridwar.

It is surrounded by scenic beauty of the hills and what makes this place so divine is that Holy Ganga River is flowing through it. Rishikesh is a believed to be a place for meditation which leads to salvation. There are many temples many of them are ancient along the sides of river Ganga.

Ashrams of Sadhus add up to the environment and feel of divinity and purity here.

Rishikesh is very famous for Yoga, and this is very much followed by foreigners, at Rishikesh people from different countries come to learn Yoga, meditation.

Big Celebrities come here to experience the divine life here. The famous Beatles visited this place in 60’s.

People from different countries come here to learn Hinduism, to spend more time with Lord. People who love rafting should come here and experience the adventure in the waters of Ganga.

Climate here is pleasant throughout the year as it is located in the foothills.

Highlights of Rishikesh –

Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula – These two are suspended iron bridge, which are a major attraction among the tourists.

Swarga Ashram - Here one can find numerous temples, it’s a place to shop and eat, Gita Bhawan is situated just across the Laksman Jhula and is famous for its paintings and statues from Hindu Mythology.

Neelkanth – According to Hindu Mythology Lord Shiva drank the venom at this place and henceforth this place is known as Neelkanth Mahadeo (Mahadev is the other name of Lord Shiva). It is situated 12 kms from Rishikesh and is one of the most revered temple.

Triveni Ghat – Daily in the morning and evening Maha Aarti is performed at this Ghat, people also take a dip here.

Other Activities –

River Rafting – People enjoy the adventure of rafting along the Ganga.

Rock-Climbing - Rishikesh is also one of the ideal base camps for rock-climbing.

How to get there?

Rishikesh is well connected with all major cities through trains and buses, it does not have an airstrip of its own but one can reach by air till Jollygrant near Dehradun and then take a bus or private cab to this place.

Where to stay?

Rishikesh does not have big five star hotels, but has Dharamshalas and guest houses which provide a good and inexpensive accommodation. GMVN i.e. Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam provides the facility of dormitory, single and double rooms for tourists.

Haridwar - gateway to the four pilgrimages in the Uttarakhand

2009-06-29T22:32:00.000-07:00

Haridwar - Religiously believed that Hari-dwar means Door leading to God as Hari means God and Dwar means Gateway or entrance according to Hindi language.

Haridwar is believed to be the gateway to the four pilgrimages in the Uttarakhand region (Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath)

Haridwar is located on the foothills of Shivaliks. It is on the banks of Holy river Ganga.

Millions of Hindus travel here to pray to Ganga Mai and take a dip in the river to wash away their sins and attain ultimate freedom, Nirvana

Haridwar has earned fame as being the place, which has been blessed by the trinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. It is also one of the major Shaktipeeths. Down the ages, Haridwar has purified the mind, the body and the soul.

Not only in spiritual or religious terms Haridwar has come up as a major learning center for arts, science and culture.

This place has maintained the Gurukul tradition of teaching. This ancient tradition of teaching has maintained its fervour in Haridwar. Haridwar has since ages been a source of Ayurvedic medicines and has been providing herbal remedies

Highlights of Haridwar:

Har-ki-Pauri - This ghat is one of the most sacred ghats in India.Its believed that Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari built this ghat. This ghat is also known as Brahmakund. In the evening a Maha Aarti is performed on this ghat which is a treat to watch and leaves everyone with a divine feeling .This is the central ghat in Haridwar where the waters of the Upper Ganga Canal are diverted from the main river.The ghat is also the venue for the famous Kumbha Mela.

Evening Aarti - the evening prayers at Har-ki-pauri to the chants of drums and cymbals, is a sight worth experiencing.

Chandi Devi Temple - This temple is on the top of a hill called the Neel Parvat, which is the other side of the river Ganga. The King of Kashmir, Suchat Singh, constructed the temple in 1929 AD. Chandi Devi is a three-km trek from the Chandi Ghat.

Mansa Devi Temple - This temple is located on top of a hill called the Bilwa Parvat. The ropeway can reach the temple or one can take the normal trekking route to the top. The top of the hill gives you an excellent view of Haridwar.

Kavand Mela -

The fair is held ten days before Shivteras, during the Hindu months of Shravan & Phalgun.

Daksha Mahadevo Temple-

4 kms from Haridwar is a town called Kankhal.According to Mythology the king of this place King Daksha Prajapati performed a yagya. His daughter, Sati was married to Lord Shiva. But Daksha was not happy with this marriage and did not invite Shiva-Sati in the Yagya. But Sati came and was insulted by her father. She could not take the insult and burnt herself in the yagya kund. On hearing this followers of Shiva killed Daksha. But later Mahadeo (Shiva) brought Daksha to life. The Daksha temple is an attribute to this legend. This place is one of the five sacred places in Haridwar.

Sapt Rishi:

This is the place where Ganga divides itself into seven small streams and provides a very pleasing sight.

Maya Devi:

It is one of the Shaktipeeths in India. This ancient temple of Maya Devi is also the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar. It is said that when Lord Shiva was carrying his wife Sati, who had burnt her self to keep the honour of her husband, then the heart and navel of Sati had fallen at this place.

Gurukul Kangri University - :

This University is known for its unique system of education. It is located on the Haridwar-Jwalapur bypass road. This university follows the ancient tradition of Guru-Sishya pattern of education. The University also has the Ved Mandir Museum which has a very good collection of archaeological exhibits and displays artifacts which are of historical value.

Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar:

This is a must watch place as various species of birds can be spotted here particularly during the winters. Around Laljiwala on the banks of river Ganges one can expect the Siberian Cranes, which are one of the valued possession at the Pakshi-Vihar.

· Nearby cities-

Rishikesh - 24 kms.
Mussoorie - 90 kms.
Badrinath - 290 kms.
Yamunotri - 240 kms.
Dehradun - 52 kms.
Kedarnath - 250 kms.

· FAIRS & FESTIVALS

Ardh Kumbh:

The Ardh Kumbh is held every six years and the last Ardh Kumbha of this century ended this year. It is said that a holy dip in the river Ganges during the Kumbh gives you Moksha or Nirvana, Ardh Kumbh is celebrated with a lot of religious sentiments and this is one festival which attracts the mind of any tourist to this place.
People gather in huge number to take the holy dip during these holy days. There are Saints, Naga Sadhus, Politicians almost every one is here. The city gets overcrowded with people during this festive season and its better to avoid over crowded ghats during this time as there are reports of stampedes. The accommodation should be ensured well in advance if one is going to Haridwar during the Kumbh.

· SHOPPING - Haridwar offers some good handicraft items, which can be kept as decorative pieces or can be used as gift items. In the markets surrounding the temples, one can find jewellery imitations, which are very popular among the devotees. The bangles, chains, ear and nose rings are some items, which can be bough there. Then the shops also have items made of stone. The main shopping centers are Moti Bazaar, Upper Road, Jwalapur, and Kankhal. The UP handloom Emporium is near the Bharat Mata temple and the government Emporium, Gandhi Ashram is near the Haridwar post office.

· CLIMATE - Haridwar is located at a height of almost 300 meters. This place does not have a pleasant climate here. During the summers the temperature usually shoots upto 40 degrees but winters sees the mercury dipping as low as six degrees. The best seasons to visit Haridwar are some where between September and June though Pilgrims visit this place all the year round.

HOW TO GET THERE ?

Air Services are available only upto Jollygrant airport in Dehradun, but the Railways have a station at Haridwar. This major pilgrimage center has been well connected by trains to all the major towns of India. In fact trains are the main source of getting pilgrims and tourist to Haridwar. The national high way no.45 crosses through the city so it is connected to other cities of the State as well as other towns in India in an efficient manner. There are buses available from Delhi to this place. The state transport has ordinary as well as deluxe and semi-deluxe buses on this route for long distance travel.
There are private buses, which take you to nearby places, and also some of these private deluxe buses run on the long distance routes.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

Regional Tourist Office - Haridwar, Uttaranchal, India.
Tourist Bureau - Laltarao Bridge, Haridwar, Uttaranchal, India
Tourist Information Center - Railway Station, Haridwar, Uttaranchal, India
Tourist Reception Center - 36, Chandralok Building, Janpath, New Delhi - 110 001

Uttarakhand - the Land of the Gods" (Dev Bhoomi)

2009-06-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

UTTARAKHAND - Land of Gods and Goddesses

On the 8th of November 2000, Uttarakhand became a full-fledged state of India with the formal induction of a separate State Government. The State is carved out of the Uttar Pradesh, which has the largest population in India.
And with this, the people of Uttarakhand have finally achieved their dream of running their own affairs for which they have been fighting for some decades now.

State Info-
Situated in northern part of India, Uttaranchal is surrounded by Tibet & Nepal in the North, Madhya Pradesh in the South, Haryana, Delhi & Rajasthan in the West and Bihar in the East. Dehradun, Mussoorie, Nainital and Ranikhet are the valleys with immense natural beauty.

Uttarakhand was also the ancient puranic term for the central stretch of the Indian Himalayas. Its peaks and valleys were well known in ancient times as the abode of Gods and Goddesses and source of the Ganga River.Today, it is often called "the Land of the Gods" (Dev Bhoomi) because of the presence of a multitude of Hindu pilgrimage spots.

In January 2007, the name of the state was officially changed from Uttaranchal, its interim name, to Uttarakhand, according to the wishes of a large section of its people.
The High Court of the state is in Nanital.
Recent developments in the region include initiatives by the state government to capitalise on Handloom and Handicrafts, the burgeoning tourist trade as well as tax incentives to lure high-tech industry to the state.
The state also has big-dam projects, controversial and often criticised in India, such as the very large Tehri Dam on the Bhagirathi-Bhilangana rivers, conceived in 1953 and about to reach completion.

Land Area- Uttaranchal occupies 1.73% of India’s total land area with 51,125 sq. km.
Population- It has a population of about 6.0 million at 94.4 per sq. km.
Borders- It borders Tibet, Nepal, Himachal Pradesh, and the UP plains districts.
Capital- Dehradun was chosen as the state capital which is about 255 km away from India's capital, New Delhi

Districts: Uttaranchal comprises of 13 districts:-

1. Pithoragarh
2. Almora
3. Nainital
4. Bageshwar
5. Champawat
6. Uttar Kashi
7. Udham Singh Nagar
8. Chamoli
9. Dehra Dun
10. Pauri Garhwal
11. Tehri Garhwal
12. Rudraprayag
13. Haridwar

India celebrates "Unity in Diversity" in all aspects of life, be it religion, society, culture, education, economy and so on. Its awesome air of spirituality is marked by the multiplicity of gods and diverse religious beliefs, generating numerous strands, all wrought together into a knot of sameness in fundamental concepts.
In the same way uttarakhand is also the melting pot of many ethnic groups and castes.

Tourism-
The opportunities for tourism are immense in this state, be it-

1. Pilgrimage Tourism
2. Nature Tourism
3. Wildlife Tourism
4. Adventure Tourism

The major destinations for these are:-

Haridwar
Rishikesh
Gangotri
Yamunotri
Kedarnath
Badrinath

Dehradun
Mussoorie
Almora
Nainital
Ranikhet
Pithoragarh
Jim Corbett National Park

If you are adventurous and like tough challenges, you can go for high- and low-altitude trekking, river rafting, para gliding, hang-gliding, mountaineering, skiing, and many others.

Leh, the Buddhist mountainous region of North India

2009-06-21T02:14:00.000-07:00

The best season to visit Leh is between June to September
The temperature can range from −28 °C in winter to 33 °C in summer.
Average elevation is 3,500 metres (11,483 feet)
Coordinates: Leh is located at 34.17°N 77.58°E
Attractions : Trekking, Mountaineering, Camping, Water Rafting, And Buddhist Monasteries, along with an incredible view all around.
Religion: Buddhism, Islam, Hindu

See towering mountains reach up to a clear blue sky, and seem to touch it. Hear the rhythmic chant of Buddhist monks in an ancient monastery where time stands still, in a land with a mix of religions living peacefully with each other. See the rushing waters of an icy river, the Indus (Sindhu) surge down from a glacial height. This is all part of what Ladakh (the Land of Passes and the Roof of the World) awaits you. From age-old Buddhist monasteries to exciting adventure tours, Leh (the capital of Ladakh) has a lot to offer. Explore a Gompa, go mountaineering in the Himalayas with sheer slopes and rocky cliffs, camp on the Ladakh plateau, trek on treacherous and breathtaking routes and see rare mountain goats ascend the slopes. Tour a land that will amaze you with its stark beauty and delight you with the warmth of the Ladakhi people.
Leh has a cold, arid climate with long, harsh winters from October to early March, with minimum temperatures well below freezing for most of the winter. The city gets occasional snowfall during winter. The weather in the remaining months is generally fine, and leads to a tourist season that peaks between July and September.

Leh (capital of Ladakh) on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

Travellers flock to Ladakh from all corners of the globe, and Ladakh is becoming an adventure for a large number of Indians as well. This trans-Himalayan district of Jammu and Kashmir has now become a favourite of both adventure freaks and culture enthusiasts, and a good place to consider going to when you want to avoid those commercial tourist locations.
Leh, the capital of Ladakh is a fascinating destination. Monasteries that seem from the ages, quaint lanes, colorful markets, friendly people, and stunning views of the Himalayas make Leh an exotic destination. Leh is where your adventure in Ladakh begins. You can go trekking through the mountainous terrain of Ladakh, or even enjoy a game of polo in a high altitude arena or watch a local contest of archery between local residents. Mountaineering, white water rafting and wildlife tours are other adventurous attractions of Leh.
Leh is is bounded by Pakistan occupied Kashmir in the West, China in the north and eastern part, and Lahul Spiti of Himachal Pradesh in South East.

Major tourist attractions

• Leh Palace: This is a building built to reflect the grand traditions of Tibetan architecture, and which is said to have inspired the more famous Potala palace in Lhasa (Tibet), built half a century later. The palace was built long back, in the 17th century and had nine storeys with different floors for the royals and for those who server them, but it is now dilapidated and deserted (It was the home of the royal family until they were exiled to Stok in the 1830s). Within the palace are Buddhist wall paintings, centuries old 'tankas' or painted scrolls and other artefacts. Above the palace, at the top of the Namgyal hill, is the Victory Tower, built to commemorate Ladakh's victory over the Balti Kashmir armies in the early 16th century.
• Leh Monastery and Gompa: The central area of Ladakh has the greatest concentration of major Buddhist monasteries or gompas, incredibly beautiful and a must see. Of the twelve situated on or near the Indus, the oldest monastery is that of Lamayuru, which is believed to have been a sacred site for the pre-Buddhist religion known as Bon. The monasteries of Phiyang, Hemis and Chemrey were all founded under the direct patronage of members of the ruling Namgyal dynasty. Phyang represents an act of penance by the 16th century King Tashi Namgyal for the violence and treachery by which he reached the throne.
• Spituk Monastery - The Gompa is famous for a wonderful view of the commanding river, the Indus. Further, the gompa stands on the top of a hillock, 8 Kms. from Leh. Many icons of Buddha and five thankas are found in 15th century monastery. There is also a collection of ancient masks, antique arms, and an awe inspiring image of Mahakal.
• Shanti Stupa: Shanti Stupa is a fairly recent monument, build with the support of the Japanese Government, and build by a Japanese who wanted to spread Buddhism around the world. The Shanti Stupa is located 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 stupa is connected by a ‘motorable’ road and a steep flight of stairs. The view from the top is great, and you can stop for a snack in the tea shop, and enjoy the panoramic view of the chain of mountains and the peaceful little village of Changspa (having typical Ladakhi houses built along a gushing stream), and the towering Namgyal Tsemo in the distance.
• Shey Gompa: 15 Kms upstream from Leh, a 7.5 metre high copper statue of Buddha, plated with gold, and the largest of its kind, is installed in the palace.
• Soma Gonpa (Jokhang): The Ladakh Buddhist Association in 1957 built the small Gonpa opposite to SBI, in the main bazaar, which is open throughout the day for visitors. The Gonpa contains a statue of Joyo Rinpochey (crowned Buddha).
• Stok Palace Museum: 17 km from Leh town, this museum exhibits precious stones, thangkas, coins, royal crowns and dresses and prayer instruments.
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa - The Namgyal Tsemo Gompa was built in 1430 by King Tashi Namgyal on Namgyal Tsemo peak overlooking the town. The monastery contains a three-story high solid gold idol of Maitrieya Buddha (future Buddha also called laughing buddha) and a one-storied statue of Avaloketesvara and Manjushri along with ancient manuscripts and frescoes. The fort above this gompa is ruined, but the views of Leh from here are breathtakingly beautiful. The associated temples here remain intact, but they are kept locked except during the morning and evening hours when a monk toils up the hills from Sankar Gompa to attend to the butter - lamps in front of the images.
• Leh Mosque - Apart from all the Buddhist structures, the striking green and white Leh Mosque, an exquisite work of Turko-Iranian architecture, stand in the Main Bazaar of Leh. This historical mosque was built in 1666-67 A.D. consequent to an agreement between the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and then ruler of Ladakh, Deldan Namgyal.
• The Nubra Valley - The Nubra valley gets clad in endless bushes of yellow and pink wild roses. However, once the rose season is over, a carpet of wild lavender lies gently on it. Nubra is also a relatively warmer valley in Ladakh making it perfect for crops and fruits to grow. Diskit Village located near Khalsar, dotted with apricot plantations is one of the larger village of the Nubra valley. The road between Diskit and the quaint little Hunder Village winds through a gorgeous stretch of sand dunes. A quiet and pleasant evening can be spent amidst nature with snowcapped peaks in the background
• Pangong Lake - This lake is situated at a elevation of 14,000ft. In the Eastern sector of Ladakh, at a distance of 154km. from Leh across Changla pass (17,000ft.). This lake is one of the largest and most beautiful natural brakish lakes in the country. It is located 1/3rd in India, and 2/3rd in China, and one needs a permit to visit the Lake. The trip to the lake is half the pleasure of the lake itself.

Things to do:

Trekking : Leh is a trekker's paradise. The treks from Spituk to the Markha valley and Lamayuru gompa to Chiling village alongside the Zanskar River are the most popular treks in the region. Another trek route is from Likir to Temisgam. Treks are open from the June end upto mid October. The passes for trekking are as high as 5,000 m in altitude, so you need to attempt these only if you are fit, and have experience. Many trekking agencies in Leh offer trek packages with a guide, packhorses, food and supplies.

Polo : Polo is also very popular in Leh. Apart from a well-maintained polo ground, regular matches and competitions are organised during the Ladakh festival.

River Rafting : One might also take fun of rafting in the Zanskar River in the month of July to September.

Places to stay:

Mehek Guest House
Green Land, Ladakh Hotel
Khangri Hotel, Ladakh
Laser Mo Hotel
Hotel Lumbini
List of places to stay (link to post)
Chamba Camp
The Grand Dragon
Hotel Caravan Center
Hotel Cho Palace
Hotel Dragon
Hotel Gawaling International
Hotel Holiday Ladakh
Hotel Khanglachan
Hotel Mandala
Hotel Lotus
Hotel Namgyal Palace
Hotel Omasila
Hotel Royal Palace
Hotel Shambha-La (link)
Hotel Spic N Span
Hotel Yak Tail
Sangaylay Guest House
Hotel Singge Palace (link)

By Air: The airport is approximately 8 kms away from Leh.

By rail: Jammu is the closest among all with a distance of 620 Kms.

By road: Kashmir valley is the closest place to approach Leh. The approach road to Leh is either through (434 km) Srinagar-Kargil-Leh, or through (473 km) Manali-Keylong-Leh. Both roads are open only on a seasonal basis.

External articles / blogs:

1. Biking from Srinagar to Leh (link to article):

Early on the 10th June we started for Leh. After 8.5KM of uphill we took a 5KM deviation from the main road to visit the Likir monastery. The ride from Likir monastery till the main road was an easy downhill and later the road was relatively flat till Nimmu (our Lunch halt). After climbing up till the Magnetic Hill and facing some heavy wind which made even standing difficult we reached the Pattar Sahib Gurudwara. The road beyond the Gurudwara was a neatly paved downhill for more than 10KM. This stretch gave us an oppurtunity to touch a maximum speed of 77.7KMPH and soon we entered the busy Leh city!

2. Proposed drive to Leh on the 4th of July (link to article)
3. Drive from Srinagar to Leh with some great photos (link to article)
4. Complete guide to Leh-Manali Road (link to article)

It is the difficulty involved in traversing the road that attracts travelers to make the journey from Manali to Leh by road. Nowhere else in India do you get to drive hundreds of kilometers without seeing a single permanent habitation. The road runs above ten thousand feet for almost entire journey, and the highest point on the road is above 18,000 feet. The landscapes are unparalleled. The superb greenery on the way out of Manali will be the last stretch of abundant vegetation that you encounter until the day you return from Ladakh

5. Ice hockey in Leh (link to article)

The famous Karzoo Ice Hockey Rink has become the most sought after destination in Leh during winters for the localites as well as tourists having a passion for Ice Hockey. It is the highest Ice Hockey rink in the country, which is situated at an altitude of 3483 meters above sea level. 2009 has been an year of achievement for the local players from Ladakh, where they got an opportunity to represent their county in International Ice Hockey Federation Challenge Cup of Asia held at Abu Dhabi.

6. Khardung La - World's Highest Motorable Road (link to article)

Khardung La (la means pass in Tibetan) (elevation 5359 m) is a high mountain pass located in the Ladakh region, Jammu and Kashmir, India. The local pronunciation is "Khardong La" or "Khardzong La," but, as with most names in Ladakh, the romanised spelling varies. It is the highest motorable road in the world as signs put up by the Border Roads Organization proudly proclaim. The views from this pass are no doubt breathtaking – with the Ladakh range to the south and Karakoram to the north. And snow capped peaks at almost touching distance all around. The pass experiences up to 10 feet of snow in winters, with temperatures dropping to 40 degrees Celsius below zero. Even though temperatures in summers average 20 degrees Celsius, the weather can turn for the worse suddenly.

7. Not walking to Leh (link to article):

We traveled to Leh, in northern Kashmir, a few years ago. Good sample-the-local-culture tourists that we are, we traveled on crowded buses, hitchhiked on trucks, and once, memorably, on a fully loaded gasoline tanker truck driven by a dozing driver. One thing we did not try to do much was hike.

8. Whether safe to plan to drive in October on the highways (link to forum post)

I'm looking at doing the trip from manali to leh. Trying to coordinate the trip with some friends overseas and the only time that works for all of us would be early - mid october. Also we'd only have 12 days from arriving in delhi to leaving delhi. So first of all how trafficable is the route at this time of year - I've heard it officially closes in september. We would be self supported on mountainbikes so not opposed to a bit of snow and the like but don't want to do anything stupid. Also what would we find in the way of tent villages and permanent villages along the way. As for the 12 days (probably 10 by the time you bus out to manali and fly back from leh) is it realistic in this time. I don't expect or want this to be an easy ride but I don't want to bite off more then I can chew.

9. Trip to Leh (link to article)

For the spiritually inclined, the monasteries of Thiksey, Hemios, Spitup, and Lamayuru provide perfect refuge. Most monasteries also have small guest houses where visitors may stay and participate in Buddhist rituals with the resident monks. These monasteries offer great insight into the culture of Leh – with their museums holding great treasures of tourist interest. Religion plays an important part in Leh’s culture and it is advisable to listen carefully to your guide so as to not disrespect any religious sentiments.

10. Leh and Ladakh (link to article)
11. Long trip covering Leh and Amarnath (link to forum post)
12. Ketchup with Aubs (link to article)

The capital city of Leh offers a rare insight into what Tibet was like before the Chinese invaded the country. It also boasts the highest golf course in the world at the Indian army base (at about 3,200m). Permission can be sort to play a round. Similar to the Gulf, you carry a piece of artificial turf around and aim for the "greens", which are actually brown - a mix of oil and sand which offers a seriously challenging putting surface.

13. Manali-Leh highway (link to article):

From Manali, a pretty village in the green foothills of the Himalayas, the journey takes two days and ends up 500kms north in Leh, Ladakh’s capital - a staggering 3505m above sea level. It’s certainly an experience worth having, but the combination of Indian driving and a disconcerting lack of barriers on the windy mountain roads makes for a nail-biting trip. Rather alarmingly, our driver was suffering with altitude sickness and kept momentarily blacking out, reminding me to ‘grab the wheel’ if he fainted. On the plus side, he did own the full Bob Marley collection which blared most of the way, so, you know, swings and roundabouts.

14. Adventure on the Leh-Manali highway (link to article):

arlier this week I took a 20-hour jeep ride from Leh to Manali. Their were 10 people (I was the only non-Indian) in a jeep that was made for 7, so it was uncomfortable. Despite, the discomcomfort, or perhaps because of it, it was a ride I will never forgot. The scenery was stunning, and the road was terrifying. The road was rarely more then 1 lane wide and was on the edge of a mountain atleast 75% of the time.

15. manali-Leh highway (link to article)

The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. The road is only open between June and October, and by this time the landscape is a vast expanse of barren, snow-capped mountainous and deep canyons with rivers running through it. There’s the odd house or tiny settlement along the way, but the most people you’ll see are at the numerous rest-stops where drinks and snacks are sold. There are no toilets though – you’ll have to bare your bum at the side of the road – not so bad higher up where you can hide behind a mound of snow, but pretty embarrassing in the open, barren expanses lower down.

16. Wonderful post on travel through India (with Leh at the lower section) (link to article):

I visited Thiksey Monastery (or Gompa) first, leaving at sunrise and watching the incredible changes of light on the harsh, bare, and beautiful mountains. Thiksey sprawls down a mountainside, and has the usual monastery accoutrements of small shrines, huge Buddhas, and many steps. What it did not have many of, that day, was monks, as they were mostly visiting in the village for a funeral. It was fascinating to wander around, though, and is very aesthetically pleasing.
The monasteries have incredible artwork, but what I loved best about this area is the flowers. The garden at my guesthouse is a small treasure, and everywhere at the "gompas" (monasteries) and along the roadsides in the valleys there are flowers of all shapes and sizes, most noticeably vivid hollyhocks. They have such a short season that everything seems to grow with abandon.

Photos of Leh / Ladakh:

1. Photos from Srinagar to Leh (link to article)

2. Photos of Leh-Manali highway (link to photos)
3. Beautiful photos of Leh (link to post)
4. Photos at thisismyindia.com (link)
5. Official site (link)
6. Leh Photo Gallery at world66.com (link)
7. Photo Gallery at pbase.com (link)
8. Blog + Photo Gallery (link)

Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh, India

2009-06-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

State: Himachal Pradesh
Distance by road: It is around 305kms away from Delhi.
Nearest Railway Station: It is at Dehra Dun, at a distance of around 49kms.
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant at Dehra Dun
Best Season: September-April
Elevation: 389 meters

Paonta Sahib is a place sacred to the Sikh community, and is also making its name as a growing industrial region. The religious background as to why Paonta Sahib is a significant place is: In the year 1685, Guru Govind Singh (the 10th and last human guru for Sikhism), son of Guru Tegh Bahadur (9th guru), was on the way to Anandpur Sahib for setting up the Khalsa. He took a halt at Paonta Sahib, lived there for four years and wrote Dasam Granth there.
The original name of the city was paontika - In Hindi 'paon' means feet and 'tika' means stable. So the genesis of the name of Paonta Sahin is that the horse of Guru Ji stopped there on the way to Anandpur so he decided to rest at Paonta Sahib. Guru Govind Singh set his foot at this place that is why this place was named as Paonta Sahib. It is here, where he penned the `Dasam Granth’.

Location of Paonta Sahib on Mapmyindia.com

Just a short distance away from the gurudwara, there is the beautiful sight of the river Yamuna flowing, with all the sounds that a gurgling river makes. But just short of its walls the water suddenly falls silent, not making any more sound. The story goes that it happened only at the Guru’s behest, with the Guru requesting the river to flow silently since the noise was distrubing the Guru’s meditations, and another says that the Guru found it hampered his communication with the sufi saint Bhure Shah who lived high above the opposite bank.
Climate during the summers is pleasant while winters are bit colder than plains. This religious cum tourist destination is favorable among tourists round the year because of its moderate climate.
The Gurudwara houses some interesting spots that traces the events in the life of Guru Gobind Singh. There is Shri Talab Asthan where he disbursed salaries, and the Shri Dastar Asthan where he judged the turban - tying competitions. The Kavi Durbar was the venue of the poetic symposia. A memorial dedicated to Kalpi Rishi, and a museum showcasing the pens of the Guru and the weapons of those times, are also located within the precincts of the Gurudwara

Attractions:

Sri Talab Asthan: Sri Talab Asthan located inside Paonta Sahib is the place where the Guru distributed salaries to his followers for their hard work.

Sri Dastar Asthan: There is another place of interest inside Paonta Sahib known as Sri Dastar Asthan, where the Sikh Guru used to witness the turban tying competition by his followers.

Kalpi Rishi: Kalpi Rishi is another significant locale; this is a museum that displays various weapons used by the Sikh Guru and his followers.

Sirmour: Here are the remains of the old capital of the princely state of Sirmour. The town is said to have been destroyed by flood in the 11th century, when it was cursed by a dancing girl, who was promised the kindgom by the king if she completed a hard task, and who the king killed while she was doing the task.

Bhangani is fourteen kilometers out of Paonta Sahib. Settling on high ground, the Guru fought his first battle at Bhangani. Guru Gobind Singh defeated a phalanx of twenty thousand professional soldiers that had expected scant opposition from the Guru’s rag-tag force of five hundred men. The Guru’s eldest son was also born during the twelve-day period of the battle.

Simbalwara Wildlife Sanctuary: 12 km off the main Paonta Sahib - Nahan road, this is known for a variety of bird life.

Fossil Park, Saketi: This was the site of the largest fossil find in the Siwalik hills. The park has a museum and life-size models of the animals that once roamed these tracts.

Katasan Devi Temple: Also known as Uttam Wala Bara Ban, this is on the Paonta Sahib - Nahan road. The shrine is revered by local people. At this spot, the forces of Sirmour defeated the marauding armies of Ghulam Qadir Khan Rohiolla.

Ram Temple: Within Paonta Sahib and also known as the 'Mandir Shri Dei Ji Sahiba', this is located near the Yamuna bridge. With exquisite marble work, this was built in 1889 in memory of Raja Pratap Chand of Kangra by his wife who originally belonged to Sirmour. The Kirpal Dass Gurudwara is just past the temple

Shiva Temple, Patlian: Surrounded by fields and sal trees, the linga in this temple is supposed to be steadily increasing in size.

Shrine of Baba Garib Nath: Located in a sal forest and with an excellent view of the area, the shrine is revered by childless women.

Khodri Dak Pathar : It is a beautiful picnic spot just 25 km. from Paonta. There is a beautiful park, a swimming pool and a tourist Bungalow. At this place the torrential river Yamuna has been tamed into an artificial lake by constructing a barrage. From here one can get a fantastic view of the lake and the park nearby.

Assan Lake : 4 km. from Paonta Sahib. This beautiful lake has all facilities like speed boats, rowing, paddle and sailing boats. In addition, one can enjoy water skiing and hovercraft rides. A fast food restaurant is also available.

Places to stay:

HPTDC: Hotel Yamuna, Paonta Sahib (HP) 173025. Tel: 01704-222341, 224161. (check availability)
Hotel Citizen
Hotel City View
Hotel Clock Tower
Ganga Lodge

How to reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti in Himachal Pradesh about 145km from Paonta Sahib.

By Rail: The nearest rail head is Yamunanagar about 56kms from Paonta Sahib.

By Road: The Himachal Road Transport Corporation runs bus connecting Paonta Sahib to almost all places in Himachal Pradesh.

External articles:

1. Brief history (link to article):

In October 1686 the hill chieftains collected a force of 30,000 men and under the leadership of Raja Bhim Chand and Fateh Shah they rode towards Paonta Sahib. Guru Gobind Singh Ji's army consisted of around 4,000 Sikhs only besides a number of Udasis and Pathans.

2. Explore Himalayas (link to article):

That night we left Delhi and after 8 hours of journey we reached Paonta Sahib a small town, which was founded by the tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh. This town was situated on the banks of Yamuna River in Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh. The adventure and trekking organization ‘Explore Himalayas’ is situated here.

3. History of Guru Gobind Singh (link to article):

At the request of Medani Prakash, Guru Gobind Singh laid the foundation of Paonta Sahib in Nahan and built a beautiful city and a castle there. In Paonta Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh compiled the Jap Sahib, Savaiye and Vanis of Akal Ustat.

4. Photo of Guru Gobind Singh's weapons at Paonta Sahib (link to photo)
5. Tour to Delhi - Hemkund - Paonta Sahib (link to article)

Surrounded by the Sal forest and on the bank of river Yamuna the historic town of Paonta Sahib was founded by the tenth Sikh Guru Govind Singh Ji. When only sixteen years old, the guru left Anandpur Sahib and on the invitation of Raja Maidini Prakash of Sirmour, lived at this beautiful place for over four years. The historic gurudwara commemorates his stay and interestingly the waters of the Yamuna fall silently below this -which happened at the Guru's behest. The word 'Paonta' means 'Space for a foot hold'.

6. Legacy of a warrior (link to article)

Today Paonta Sahib’s large gurudwara gleams like an edifice carved out of snow and as the sun sets the white marble is offset by touches of pink and gold. Here the Guru wrote the Dasam Granth and with in the precincts are a number of significant spots associated with his sojourn.

7. Sikh pilgrimage tour covering Delhi- Hemkund Sahib - Paonta Sahib - Anantpur Sahib - Amritsar (link here)
8. Photos of Paonta Sahib (click here)
9. Photo of entrance to Paonta Sahib gurdwara (click here)
10. Road directions to Paonta Sahib from Delhi on oktatabyebye.com (click here)
11. Beautiful photos of Gurudwara at Paonta Sahib (click here)

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib in New Delhi - next to Connaught Place

2009-06-13T13:14:00.001-07:00

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib is probably the most visited Gurdwara in Delhi. Located centrally in Delhi, it is located on the Baba Kharag Sahib Marg that has Connaught Place at one end, and Gol Dakhana (round post office) at the other end. The back side of the Gurdwara (and the associated school) opens up to Ashoka Road. The Gurdwara was originally the Bungalow of one of the important Rajput ruler Mirza Raja Jai Singh. Jai Singh was a devotee of Guru Harkrishan, and played a role in ensuring that politics being played out in the emperor's court did not cause Aurangzeb to treat the Sikh Guru badly. Guru Harkrishan had been nominated as a successor by the seventh Guru Sri Har Rai, and was summoned to Delhi by Emperor Aurangzeb in a furtive attempt by his older brother Baba Ram Rai to grab the Gurugadi. Earlier Baba Ram Rai had disgraced himself by giving a false translation of Bani to appease the Emperor. For this he had been disowned by his father and rewarded by Aurangzeb.
The place where the current Gurudwara is located was earlier a palatial home, and it was here that Guru Sri Harkishan had stayed here for a few months as a guest of Raja Jai Singh. It was during this time that there was a terrible epidemic of cholera and smallpox and the Guru spent a lot of time caring for people and distributing help. He was eventually struck by the disease as well, and died in Delhi in 1664. He used to distribute water from a well built in the house, and this water is said to have holy and medical properties. The water is now revered as having healing properties and is taken by Sikhs throughout the world back to their homes.
The grounds include the temple, a kitchen, a large pond, a school and an art gallery. As with all Sikh Gurdwaras, the concept of langar is practiced, and all people, regardless of race or religion may eat in the Gurdwara kitchen (langer hall).

Gurdwara Rakab Ganj in New Delhi's Pant Road

2009-06-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

In the heart of New Delhi, on Pant Road, facing Parliament and North Block, there is a beautiful white marble Gurudwara, with entrances on all 4 sides (symbolizing the fact that the Gurudwara and the religion does not support any kind of separation of humanity based on caste or creed). It has a beautiful garden surrounding it. This is the Rakab Ganj Gurdwara, built in 1732 by a devotee (Lakhi Banjara) of the 9th Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
It was the year 1675, and the Guru Tegh Bahadur was in rebellion against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Aurangzeb was a zealot who wanted to convert people to Islam, and Guru Tegh Bahadur was approached by Kashmiri Pandits for their defence. The Guru proceeded to reach Delhi so as to try to negotiate with Aurangzeb (although he knew that his death could happen). He was arrested and then eventually beheaded.
It is rumored that after he was beheaded, there was a massive dust storm and in that storm, his body was rescued by his disciple and taken to the disciple's home where to hide any special attempts to cremate the body, the disciple Lakhi Shah Vanjara kept the body in his own home and burnt down the home in order to do the last rites (the head was taken away separately to Anandpur Sahib where it was cremated).
It was this very spot where the body was cremated that is the site of the present Rakab Ganj Gurudwara.

Gurudwara Sis Ganj - located in the heart of Chandni Chowk

2009-06-13T13:08:00.000-07:00

Getting into Chandni Chowk means taking the road from Red Fort and leading directly perpendicular to it. You see a straight road with a divider, and unless you are in the middle of the night or early morning, the road will be crowded with all sorts of traffic. There are numerous shops, and side roads that lead to narrow bustling shopping lanes. As you move ahead, you will see a beautiful Gurudwara to the left side, and this is called Gurdwara Sis Ganj. It is a pivotal part of life in Chandni Chowk, and you can see a huge number of devotees moving in and out of the Gurudwara. Not too many of these people though know the history of the Gurudwara, or the significance.
The life of the Sikh Gurus was built on the concept of sacrifice and not protecting their lives if their was something fundamental at stake. Thus it was during the time of the great (but cruel) Mughal emperor Aurangzeb who was more of a zealot than many of his previous Mughal emperors. This was also a time when there was a clash between the Mughals and the Sikh Gurus, and when the Mughal Emperor was forcibly converting Hindus to Islam. It was then that the Guru told a group of Pandits who approached him to tell the emperor that Aurangzeb should first convince the Guru to convert to Islam, and then only go to the Pandits.
The Guru refused and was imprisoned by the Emperor's men. He was finally beheaded on November 11th, 1675. His body was cremated secretly by one of his followers so that it would not be on display. Similarly, the separated head was taken to Chakk Nanaki in Anandpur Sahib. After around a century when the Mughal influence had waned and Sikhs had become more forceful, one of his followers Sardar Bhagel Singh, built the Gurudwara. The Gurudwara is made of white marble, has several domes with spires for flags and a water body for religious purposes. It took around Rs. 10 lakh and manpower of 4000 people over various stages to complete the Gurudwara.
The main structure of the Gurudwara is a large open hall. This is very spacious and has a bronze canopy in the middle under which, the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs is kept. The Guru Granth Sahib is covered with a large red tunic cloth and garlands. At night, the book is ceremonially carried to a special room in the gurudwara. Here it is kept in a transparent and well-lit glass chamber for the visitors. The book is kept there in a special-resting closet. It is surrounded by the pieces of tree trunk of the same banyan tree under which the Guru was martyred. There is also an enclosed structure where the guru was held prisoner before being executed. The people who go to the Sis Ganj Gurdwara also visit the well in which the Guru used to take his daily bath when he was in prison.
Guru Tegh Bahadur was the youngest of the five sons of Guru Har Gobind. He was born in Amritsar in the early hours of 1st April 1621. The name Tegh Bahadur (mighty of the sword), was given to him by Guru Har Gobind after he had shown his valour in a battle with the Mughals.

Some photos of the Gurudwara can be seen at this link.

Visit to the Vatican: Tips and what to see

2009-06-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

The Vatican (official site) is an incredible destination; the spiritual head-quarters of Catholic Christians the world over. Vatican City is a landlocked sovereign city-state whose territory consists of a walled enclave within the city of Rome, the capital city of Italy. At approximately 44 hectares (110 acres), and with a population of around 900, it is the smallest country in the world by both area and population. At the same time, there is a distinction between the Holy See (central authority of the Roman Catholic Church) that has existed for a long time in history, and Vatican City, which is a city-state that came into existence in 1929 (for more details of the distinction, refer to Wikipedia (click here)). Vatican City is an ecclesiastical or sacerdotal-monarchical state, ruled by the Bishop of Rome — the Pope.

Map of Vatican City (placement within Rome) on Google Maps (may need to zoom in)

View Larger Map

A great site with information on timings for many places inside the Vatican, dress code, mass timings, climbing the cupola, grottoes, restrooms, St. Peter's Tomb, seeing the pope, Sistine Chapel, Tours (link)

Hours: St. Peter's Basilica is open daily, Apr-Sep 7:00-19:00;
Oct-Mar 7:00-18:00
Treasury Museum: 9:00 - 18:15 (Apr - Sep) 9:00 - 17:15 p.m. (Oct - Mar)
Grottoes: 7:00-18:00 (Apr - Sep) 7:00-17:00 (Oct - Mar)
Cupola: 8:00 - 18:00 (Apr - Sep) 8:00 - 16:45 (Oct - Mar)
Scavi Office: weekdays 9:00 - 17:00

Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel - (Vatican website)
Hours - Closed on many holidays, check the Vatican Website
Mar-Oct 8:45-15:20, Exit 16:45 Saturdays 8:45 - 12:20 Exit 13:45
Nov-Feb 8:45 - 12:20, Exit 13:45
Closed Sundays, except the last Sunday of the month which is free.
Regular Price - 12 Euros

Virtual Tour of St. Paul's Basilica Outside the Walls available at this link (click here)

Virtual tours of the Vatican Museums at this link (click here)

Information on St. Peter's Basilica (Wikipedia - including the history of the construction of the Church) and Square in the Vatican City (link), (Photos from EWTN Catholic Network)

For people visiting the Vatican, it is always a challenge for them to decide what to visit. Here are some links to articles that describe what to visit:

Article in the Telegraph about how to visit the museums (click here)

Few visitors to the Vatican Museums come away unmoved by what they see - especially in the Sistine Chapel. The sheer scale of Michelangelo's ambition and achievement (he painted more than 600 figures in all), the coherence of the compositions and the consistency of the artistic quality is heart-stopping. The problem is how to enjoy it. Throughout most of the year, the sheer number of people cramming into the chapel, and especially into the Raphael Rooms, undermines the whole experience. It's like trying to read metaphysical poetry in a rugby scrum.
Top 20:
Raphael paintings and tapestries, Aldo-Brandini Wedding Fresco, Horses heads, The Ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, The Last Judgment, Fra Angelico: Chapel of Nicholas V (for more, including descriptions, visit the actual article)

Some useful tips at this forum post at fodors.com (link)

The Sistine Chapel is part of the Vatican Museums and furthest from the entrance. There is an admission fee. For an additional fee, you can prebook a timed entry to avoid waiting in line. Anecdotal evidence suggests that lines are short or non-existent after about 1 pm.
http://biglietteriamusei.vatican.va/musei/tickets/index.html
There is no fee for entry to St. Peter's Basilica, but there is a security line, which generally moves quite fast.

Tips from ehow.com (link)

Select the day you want to visit Vatican City. Check the official Vatican website for events you want to attend or avoid, including the Pope's weekly public appearance in St. Peter's Square.

Private visit to the Vatican Gardens and Sistine Chapel (link)

Detailed description of visit to the Vatican City with photos (link)

Finally, we moved into the Sistine chapel where no speaking, photography or videography is allowed. It is difficult to comprehend the scope of the Michelangelo ceiling from individual images - they can never recreate the feeling of looking up at this work in its whole. This is also the room in which the Pope is elected by the college of cardinals and seems to resonate with history and untold secrets. It was far less crowded in the chapel from the last time I visited, and we were able to take seats along the benches that line the perimeter. From here we could comfortably take in the various panels without the sort of reverse vertigo that you get from walking in slow circles with your head tilted back. Certainly the panel showing God creating Adam is captivating, but so are many of the less famous images that lead to this centre piece.

Ticket Office online of the Vatican Museums (for skipping the lines, for getting guided tours, for school groups, and for pilgrimages) (link)

A pilgrim's report (link)

As Christian and Catholic, I will never conceive a visit to Rome without visiting the Vatican City, the spiritual centre of the Christendom, with the famous Saint Peter's Basilica and the other three Basilicas located outside the Holy See walls: Saint John in Lateran, Saint Mary Major and Saint Paul outside the Walls, the impressive Vatican Museums, the beautiful Gardens and the fantastic St. Peter's Square.

Vatican City, Italy - Sistenth Chapel, St Peter's Basilica

2 parts of a virtual tour of the Vatican (an excerpt from a National Geographic documentary titled "Inside the Vatican").

A virtual tour of the Vatican (Part 1)

Mansarovar Kailash Yatra in Tibet - A religious challenge

2009-06-06T04:13:00.000-07:00

Quick Facts:

* Location: Western Region Of Tibet, Tibetan Himalayas
* Duration: 11-18 Days
* Highest Altitude: 6,714m
* Best Time To Visit: June To September
* Temperature: June to September 15-20 degree Celsius. Morning and evening can be chilly between minus 2 to 0 degree Celsius.

A huge number of people would have heard of Mt. Kailash, but a very small fraction of them would have visited the place. So, what is this place ? Isolated for centuries behind the Himalayas in Tibet is a mysterious and mythical mountain. Mount Kailash is 6714m (22,028ft) high. It is a mountain that captures the imagination and breathes sheer excitement into the soul. Kailash has for more than a thousand years been a central pilgrimage site for some of the world's major religions. It is sacred to 4 religions - Hindus, Buddhists, Bonpo and Jains from India.

For Hinduism, Mount Kailash is one of the most sacred spots of world. Shiva devotees have been going to the Kailsah Mansarovar Yatra since times unknown. Shiva Bhakts go to the holy yatra for attaining bliss, for being at peace with themselves. Devotees here seek harmony in and around themselves. The holy shrines bestows the pilgrims with harmony, peace, heath and wealth. People who return from the pilgrimage are known to feel good with themselves. Tibetans leave any kind of relic here to leave back their egos and pretences.
The mountain name in Tibetan is, "Gang Rinpoche" which is translated to mean, "Supreme Mountain." Traditional Buddhist cosmology connects Mt. Kailash with Mt. Meru, the great mythological mountain that forms the axis of this world system. The power of this strange, domed peak has gripped the imagination of the people of Nepal, India and Tibet for thousands of years, as well as the imagination of people from all over the world are willing to see it in reality. It is one of the centers of spirituality, and the tough journey only adds to the romance of the place.
Geographic information: The four great rivers of the Indian sub-continent: Karnali (which feeds into the Ganges), Indus, Sutlej and Brahmaputra all originate from Mount Kailash, and thus the region is very important ecologically. The average altitude of the region is 4,700 meters above sea level. To the west of Mount Kailash is the Karakorum range, to the north is the Kunlun range, to the east is Magyal Pomra range and to the south is the Himalayan range.
There have been no recorded attempts to climb Mount Kailash for the past many hundred years; it is considered off limits to climbers in deference to Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. It is the most significant peak in the world that has not seen any known climbing attempts. There is a belief that the First Guru of the Sikh religion, Guru Nanak, climbed the peak way back in history, apparently to have discussions with yogis over there.
Every year, thousands make a pilgrimage to Kailash, following a tradition going back thousands of years. Pilgrims of several religions believe that circumambulating Mount Kailash on foot is a holy ritual that will bring good fortune, and don't mind the ardous physical labor that this involved. This circumambulation is made in a clockwise direction by Hindus and Buddhists. Followers of the Jain and Bönpo religions circumambulate the mountain in a counterclockwise direction. The path around Mount Kailash is 52 km (32 mi) long and takes more than a day.
The other important place to visit in the region is Lake Mansarovar, also sacred to Hindus. Manasarovar is located at a height of 4580m. The circumference of Mansarovar is 88-km, its depth is 90m and total area is 320-sq-kms. The lake freezes in the winters and melts only in spring. It looks unbelievably fascinating on moonlit nights when an ethereal ambience pervades the atmosphere.
The circumference of Rakshas Tal, also known as "Ravan Kund", is 122-km. A 6-km long natural channel - "Gangachhu" - connects Manas with Rakshas Tal. Where ritual bath will deliver a pilgrim to Brahma's paradise is believed to bring about salvation (Moksha) and drink of its water relinquishes the sins of a hundred lifetimes.

Getting there from India:
Kailash Mansarovar is connected to almost all the major passes of Uttrakhand. Indians were not allowed to visit Kailash Mansarovar for nearly two decades because of the Indo-chinese border dispute from 1959 to 1980. However, since 1981, tours have been happening on a regular basis. Even though only a limited number of people are allowed to visit yet every Shiva devotee wants to go for a holy pilgrimage of Kailash.
Most of the visitors take a dip in the Mansarovar lake. The Mansarovar lake is 18 miles from the Mount Kailash. Taking a dip or soaking the head in the holy water provides spiritual benefits; however only the brave could take a dip in the icy water.

Visa and Documentation: All foreign nationals including Indians require a VISA to enter Tibet. One must be in possession of a passport valid for another six months to obtain Chinese VISA.

Accommodation: The shrine is in the most distant part of world. You need to assume that facilities are limited, with the tour operator making tent based arrangements to stay.

Clothing: Tibet is a dry cold country where weather may change unexpectedly at any time. Plan your clothing in a way that you can wear layers of clothes. Depending upon the season, the pilgrims should bring their wardrobe.

Now, the journey has become more comfortable, as more options are available to doing the trip in relative comfort in Japanese 4-wheel drive Land cruisers. This enables devout who were not physically fit to do the Yatra as it required (and still does) peak physical conditioning. But on the regulars 11- to 16- days tour by overland and on 7 days tour by helicopter, trekking need has reduced, with being required only during the 3 day Kailash parikrama when one has to cross the 19,500 ft high Dolma Pass.
However yaks can be hired locally on this parikrama and pilgrims need not trek the entire distance. One should also be prepared to walk through landslide zones in Nepal on the first and last day (specially during the June-Sept trips).

By Overland: Traveling by overland from Kathmandu in Nepal to Mt. Kailash, which lies in the Southwestern part of Tibet, is an incredible 13-day journey, an epic pilgrimage that is expeditionary in nature. This is for those who want to experience the majestic beauty of Kailash but is limited by time. The trip begins by drive from Kathmandu to the Tibetan border at Zhangmu. After the stay in Zhangmu, drive is done to the Lake Manasarovar across widely spread open spaces of the Tibetan Plateau known as 'roof of the world'. It is undoubtedly the toughest and most rewarding of all such journeys known to man. Rivers and streams are crossed and re-crossed, treacherous passes are climbed and conquered. The numbing cold at night, the fierce sun during the day, the bitter winds, the looming solitude and the everlasting dust are constant companions.

By Helicopter: The trip begins by airways from Kathmandu to Nepalganj and continues to Simikot. After Simikot, charter helicopter flight to Hilsa and drive to the Lake Manasarovar across widely spread open spaces of the Tibetan Plateau. Then the most attractive part of the trip to Mt. Kailash and follow the pathway across huge dry plains for Nepalese border lies to the south. Finally, we take the trip back to Kathmandu. This is truly the trip of a lifetime with stunning scenery and cultural highlights.

External articles:
1. Dave's landslide blog, with a potential landslide description (link)

This year the pilgrimage is going to have an additional challenge. I posted back in February about the Chautuldhar landslide in northern India, which was causing major problems in the close area of Tawaghat in Dharchula. The landslide is not quite where I thought it was back then - it now looks as if it is on the section of slope shown on the Google Earth perspective view below

2. Tours to Mt. Kailash from Tibet (link)

Mt. Kailash (6714 m) - also known as Tise, Kailasa or Kang Rinpoche (Jewel of the Snows) has since time immemorial been celebrated in many eastern cosmologies as Mt. Meru, the axis-mundi. As the center of the physical and metaphysical universe, Mt. Meru (Kailash) is sacred to the Hindus, the Buddhists, the Jains, and the Bonpos. For the Hindus, the mountain represents the seat of Shiva. For the Buddhists, a terrestrial projection of the cosmic mandala of the Dyani Buddhas and Boddhisatvas .… The Wheel of Life.

3. Forum post on LonelyPlant (link)

The Kailash kora, which crosses an astonishing pass linking two beautiful river valleys, and passes three fine small gonpas, each sited with scenic views. Lake Manasarovar is well worth a drive around, with stays at Purang down on the Nepal border - the road passes beneath Ghurla Mandata, a couple of football fields short of 8,000m. Chui and Truro gonpas are otherworldly. Depending on time/money, most visit the Guge, on which I cannot comment, except to say I do want to see the high road down there with a sweeping view of the western Himal.

4. Niravana travel deals (link)

Passport is must if you want to be the part of the most holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
16 Days Yatra by Land Cruiser
11 Days Yatra by Helicopter

5. Post on askblogster.com (link)

This holy mountain is situated in remote place of Tibetan Himalayas. As Chinese army entered into Tibet in 1950 and created political and border disturbance, pilgrims stopped going there from 1959 to 1980. After that very limited Indian pilgrims were given permission to go there and obviously under supervision of Chinese army and Indian government. But nowadays many people are going there. It’s a very expensive tour. And many travel agencies provide lucrative travel package for Kailash.

6. Yatra to Kailash Mansarovar (link)

For the Hindus Mount Kailash is the earthly manifestation of Mt. Meru, their spiritual centre of the universe, described as a fanatastic world pillar 84,000 miles high, around which all else revolves, its roots in the lowest hell and its summit kissing the heavens. On the top lives their most revered God, Shiva, and his consort Parvati.

7. Trip to Mount Kaliash, showing it can be tough (link)

I indoors at Mt Kalish at dusk, which in summertime comes about 10pm; Mt Kailash was bathed in crimson-red hues, a spectacular site, however one shortly obscured by drizzly shower clouds. Exhausted, I curved in for the night at an adjacent yurt on the grassy banks of Damding Donkhang and presently after I set my leader on the filthy pillows, I floor asleep.
I’d been cautioned by several experienced pilgrims that the moment half of the Mt Kailash kora was the most fractious. And, trusty enough, as shortly as I agreed Dirapuk monastery and crossed the Lha-Chu tributary the following morning, the direction became increasingly treacherous. The steep means eventually weak out – as did the air – and then disappeared all together among the large boulders spread about the Drolma-Chu valley.

8. Description of journey to Mt. Kailash over 18 days including the itinerary (link)

The trip begins in Nepal’s capital city-Kathmandu where we obtain China/Tibet visa and also take chance to visit its medieval temples, palaces and monasteries. We will set out overland by 4 WD jeeps with well supplied Nepali crews. In most places, we will be camping, meals being cooked by our Nepali crews. After 4 days circuit trek, retrace drive to Kathmandu or extend to visit Lhasa.

9. 11 day trek to Mt. Kailash (link)
10. Kailash Parvat (link)

The very fact one thought of proceeding to Kailash and Manasarovar is a call from within. Thousands of Sages, ordinary mortals, philosophers and even the Gods had submerged in blissful trance at the very Bight of this divine grandeur. It is the MERU, SUMERU, SUSHUMNA, HEMADRI (golden mountain), RATNASANU (jewel peak), KARNIKACHALA (lotus mount), AMARADRI, DEVA PARVATHA (summit of gods), GANA PARVATHA, RAJATADRI (silver mountain). It was the SWAYAMBU - the self-created one. Kailasa and Manasarovar are as old as the creation. Everything emanates from there are finally return there. It is the centre of creation and the Universe.

11. Circling Kailash and Mansarovar (link)

Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar are the only two places in the whole of Tibet that were visited by Lord Buddha, accompanied by five hundred Arhats. During the turning of the Three Wheels of the Dharma, Buddha Shakyamuni extensively explained the merits of building images. So Indra (the king of gods) offered precious articles of the gods, Ananda (the king of Serpents or Nagas) offered precious articles of the Nagas and Bimbisara (the king of Magadh) offered gold and silver, etc. to the Buddha and requested him to have three images of the Buddha made, as a means of generating merit for the sentient beings in the future.

12. Various tour packages (link)
13. Details of journey at shivam.org (link)

The parikrama (Circumambulation) continued a few meters away from the brim of Manasarovar. There is a Tibeten monastery on the bank, to which the guide took around. The sight of the Holy lake was quite impressing. had there been no clouds the shade of the mountains, including the great Kailash would be seen on this dark green water. From the monastery the parikrama again continued towards a hot spring called chiu gompa. On the way to the left was another huge lake called raaxastal. This is the lake created by rAvaNa after his failed misadventure to lift up the Holy Mount Kailash. While people (Hindus and Tibeten Budhdhists) consider the Manasarovar as holy, the adjacent raxastal is not considered good. Before getting to the Holy water of Manasarovar, we wanted to wash away many days' dirt from our body. The hot sulphur spring on the high grounds near the lake, served that purpose.

14. 16-20 day package for Mt. Kailash (link)
15. Preparing for the Yatra as part of one of the packages (link). This includes information for documentation and visas, clothes, medicines, equipment, health precaution
16. Photos and blog of trip to Lake Mansarovar (link)

Photos and photo gallery:
1. Chiu Gompa and Gang Rinpoche, Mt. Kailash, Tibet (link)
2. Photo on the journey (link)
3. Beautiful photo of Mount Kailash (link)
4. The holy Kailash in Tibet (link)
5. Photo on the travelchinaguide (link)
6. Photos of Mount Kailash at Photographers Direct (link)
7. Beautiful pictures of the journey and Mt. Kailash (link)
8. The Saga Dawa festival at Mt Kailash (link)
9. Pictures of the peak of Mt. Kailash (link)
10. Panorama photo of Mt. Kailash (link)
11. Beautiful photo of Lake Mansarovar (link)
12. Photos at tibettrip (link)
13. Blue water of Lake Mansarovar (link)
14. Slideshow of photos of Lake Mansarovar (link)

Lord Amarnath Yatra: The holy pilgrimage

2009-05-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

Climate: Average Max temp 16°C, Min Temperature -4°C.
Best time to visit: July to August.
Height: Amarnath is located at a height of 3888 metre above sea level.

The trek to the Amarnath caves during the months of June - August every year is one of the most holy pilgrimages for Hindus. However, it is an ardous trek, passing through mountains, through ice and involving physical hardship. However, a large number of tourists (in the hundreds of thousands) visit the caves during the auspicious period.
The Cave entrance is a very visible hole on the side of the mountain. Inside, it has the Shivalinga formed naturally of an ice stalagmite. Unbelievably, it waxes and wanes along with the phases of the moon. By its side are two more ice lingams, of Parvati and Ganesha. On the full moon day the linga is about 6 ft high.
As per mythology, Lord Shiva is one of the holy trinity, a living god. Lord Shiva was explaining the secret of creation to his consort, Parvati. Unknown to them, a pair of doves eavesdropped on this conversation and having learnt the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the pigeons-pair when they trek the arduous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam.
According to an ancient tale, there was once Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik who was given a sack of coal by a Sadhu. Upon reaching home he discovered that the sack, in fact, contained gold. Overjoyed and overcome. Buta Malik rushed back to look for the sadhu and thank him, but on the spot of their meeting discovered a cave, and eventually this became a place of pilgrimage for all believers. To date, a percentage of the donations made by pilgrims are given to the descendants of Malik, and the remaining to the trust which manages the shrine. The cave was re-discovered in 1850, although details of the pilgrimage has been documented in historical tales for many years, with the belief being that the knowledge of the cave has been known for 5,000 years now.

Amarnath on maps.google.com

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Amarnath on mapmyindia.com

There is no place to stay at the Amarnath caves, and hence return from the caves is a must.
Tips for a safe trip:
* Be in good physical condition as the yatra is very long and rigorous. You will need to be fit to endure the journey.
* You should carry needful warm clothings and wind shield with proper shoes. The weather can be very dangerous during the trip. The climatic conditions are very uncertain . Rain or snowfall may take place at any time or place during the Yatra . It is to be particularly noted that abrupt changes in temperature might occur.
* Carry water with you along with dry fruits and baked grams during journey.
* Do pack your common medicines such as Glucose, Disprin etc. for an instant relief in case of any emergency.
* Keep vaseline or cold cream with you to have protection against cold winds.
* The item one must carry in abundance is sunscreen cream. The merciless sun can burn the exposed parts in minutes.
* Drugs are prohibited during your journey.
* Do not take short cuts and stop at such places which have warning notices as it may be dangerous for your life even. The terrain can be fairly dangerous, so be careful.

How to reach:

Air: The capital of Jammu & Kashmir, Srinagar has the nearest airport. Srinagar is located 45 km from Amarnath. Srinagar is well connected by flight to other cities of India.

Rail: The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu city is the nearest railway station. There is considerable distance between Jammu and Amarnath caves (300 km) and the road jounrney takes many hours.

Road: Amarnath is accessible from Pahalgam or Baltal, and both these locations are well connected by road from Srinagar.

Helicopter: The Amarnath caves are now well connected by helicopter from Baltal and Srinagar. (Refer this site for a package)

One of the routes:
From Pahalgaam, the taxi drops you at Chandanwari, and then the trek to Lord Amarnath Caves starts from Chandanwari. On a normal trek, the first day's stoppage is at Sheshnag, second day stop is Panchtarni, and on the third day you go from Panchtarni to the holy cave and come back and stay in the night at Panchtarni. The return is just like the forward trek, first return to Sheshnag and then Chandanwari.

External sites / blogs:
1. Trekking to Amarnath Yatra (link)

Scenic beauty nearby was wonderful. Devdar trees, waterfalls, snow color river, flowers of different kinds, environment of Amarnath Yatra and zeal of Kashmir started taking on us. Here on we started admiring beauty of Kashmir and why all call it as heaven on the earth.

2. Spiritual travel post on Amarnath yatra (link)

No matter how fit you are, this is one demanding hike. The religious faith and zeal are what keep most of the people going. There are huge community kitchens set up at regular distances to feed the people. Some tents are also provided to offer shelter from the elements as you break for the night. The climb is difficult but it is not uncommon to see entire families making the journey together. You will have grand parents, parents and children all climbing up the slippery and treacherous slopes together. Falling, recovering, and supporting each another with physical help and encouraging words.

3. Some beautiful photos (link)

Quick article: Great Barrier Reef (Australia)

2009-05-17T12:22:00.000-07:00

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 3,000 kilometres (1,600 mi) over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres (133,000 sq mi). The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland in northeast Australia. This reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps. The Great Barrier Reef supports a wide diversity of life, and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981. CNN has labelled it one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. The Queensland National Trust has named it a state icon of Queensland.
A large part of the reef is protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which helps to limit the impact of human use, such as overfishing and tourism. Other environmental pressures to the reef and its ecosystem include water quality from runoff, climate change accompanied by mass coral bleaching, and cyclic outbreaks of the crown-of-thorns starfish.

Map on Google Maps:

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A few blogs on the Great Barrier Reef:

traveltheworld360.com wrote:

Much of the reef is also protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, and through these protection efforts, many of the vulnerable and endangered species that make the reef their home and are in fact endemic to the reef system are protected as well. Among these animals are thirty known species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, six species of sea turtles, salt water crocodiles, the Irikandiji jellyfish, the giant clams, and various fish species. These animals call the reef their home year round, so be on the lookout it may be the only time that you will ever be able to seem them outside of a marine theme park.

best-reviewnow.com wrote:

Some of the most interesting things that can be found in the ocean are coral reefs. The largest coral reef in the world is the Great Barrier Reef, which is located off of the coast of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is in the Coral Sea, which is situated just off of the coast of Queensland in northern Australia. It is made up of 3000 separate coral reefs and 900 different islands, which stretch to a length of 1616 miles. The Reef is often referred to as the largest living organism in the world, although in reality, it is actually made up of many, many tiny organisms; each of these is known as coral polyps.
Another of the great things about the Great Barrier Reef is its age. Although scientists believe that the Reef is built on the remains of another coral reef that dates back at least 18,000 years, the current Great Barrier Reef can only be dated back 1000 years, which can be dated by analyzing the species of boulder coral that makes up this Reef.

External article: Tawang, the Buddhist town in far eastern part of India

2009-05-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

Tawang is a small town situated at an elevation of approximately 3,048 meters (10,000 feet) in the northwestern part of Arunachal Pradesh. The Tawang Monastery of the Gelugpa sect in Tawang town was built by the Mera Lama in 1681. This monastery is one of the largest in the country and is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world. It is a major holy site for Tibetan Buddhists. China claims Tawang and briefly occupied it during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Visitors to Tawang require special Inner line permits from the government which are available in Kolkata, Guwahati, Tezpur, and New Delhi. Most of the travel from the plains is on a steep hill road journey and one needs to cross Sela Pass (13,700 feet) to get there. In June 2008, a helicopter service from Guwahati was started by the Arunachal Pradesh government.
Road travel to Tawang from Tezpur, Assam, is by buses, private taxis and shared taxis. It is an arduous journey: most of the road is loose tarmac and gravel giving way to mud in many places. However, it is a scenic journey of nearly 12 hours, crossing Bomdila Pass (8,000 feet), peaking at Sela Pass (13,700 feet), Jaswant Garh and, finally, Tawang. Government buses often break down (usually on the way up) and passengers end up hitchhiking in private cars and taxis. En route, one can sample local food especially meat & vegetarian momos and cream buns.

Map of Tawang on Google Maps:

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Another map here (maplandia.com)

Trip to Tawang put photos and wrote about the beauty (link)

Tawang, perched at a height of over 10,000 ft, is world-renowned for its 400-year-old Buddhist Monastery, one of the biggest in India. The sixth Dalai Lama was born here. The Tawang Monastery has an interesting collection of Thangkas (Tibetan painting on cloth) and a large gilded statue of Sakyamuni (the historical Buddha) in the prayer hall. The Tawang Monastery, also known as the ‘Galden Namgyal Lhatse’, is beautifully situated on a spur about 2 km from the heart of the town.

Post on AdmirableIndia.com (link)

Founded by the Mera Lama Lodre Gyasto in accordance to the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama, Nagwang Lobsang Gyatso, The Tawang monastery of the Gelugpa sect is the largest Buddhist monastery in India. The name Tawang means Chosen Horse. It is also known in another Tibetan name known as Galden Namgey Lhatse, which means a true name within a celestial paradise in a clear night. Located at an elevation of 10,000 feet (3,300m) in the district capital, Tawang Town, it is home to more than 600 Lamas. It also houses the Parkhang library: a collection of the 400-year-old Kangyurs which consists of 110 volumes with 400-500 pages in each bundle in addition to invaluable manuscripts.

External article: Trip to Mysore

2009-05-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

Mysore is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, India. It is the headquarters of the Mysore district and the Mysore division and lies about 146 km (91 mi) southwest of Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. The name Mysore is an anglicised version of Mahishūru, which means the abode of Mahisha. Mahisha stands for Mahishasura, a demon from the Hindu mythology. The city is spread across an area of 128.42 km2 (50 sq mi) and is situated at the base of the Chamundi Hills.
Known as the cultural capital of Karnataka, Mysore is well known for the festivities that take place during the period of Dasara, the state festival of Karnataka. The Dasara festivities, which are celebrated over a ten-day period, were first introduced by King Raja Wodeyar I in 1610. On the ninth day of Dasara, called Mahanavami, the royal sword is worshipped and is taken on a procession comprising decorated elephants, camels and horses. On the tenth day, called Vijayadashami, the traditional Dasara procession (locally known as Jumboo Savari) is held on the streets of Mysore city. An image of the Goddess Chamundeshwari is placed on a golden mantapa on the back of a decorated elephant and taken on a procession, accompanied by tableaux, dance groups, music bands, decorated elephants, horses and camels. The procession starts from the Mysore Palace and culminates at a place called Bannimantapa where the banni tree (Prosopis spicigera) is worshipped. The Dasara festivities culminate on the night of Vijayadashami with a torchlight parade (locally known as Panjina Kavayatthu).

Bypass Rider wrote (link) about a trip to Mysore:

One thing to note in Mysore is that, during weekends the palace is lit with lights in the evening from 7PM to 8PM. It’s a magnificent sight to see. Since it was a Saturday when we went there, we decided to view the lit palace. A short ride in an auto-rickshaw brought us to the entrance of the palace. We spent an hour in the lit-palace posing for photographs. At 8PM sharp, the lights went out and it was total darkness all around. It took a minute t re-adjust to the darkness around and then we headed out to of the palace.

Debasish wrote about a trip to Mysore:

Mysore ,the name now changed to Mysuru,is 130 KM away from Bangalore.
We started early in the morning from Bangalore. We hired a taxi for the trip and headed towards Mysore on NH-17, the Bangalore-Mysore Highway. The scenic beauty on both sides of NH-17 was awesome. On the way to Mysore, we stopped at Srirangapatana for about 1 hour. Sringapatana or Sringapattanam as locally called, was the summer capital of Tipu sultan.
The Mysore palace is a architectural master piece of Mysore city.The palace houses a treasure of superb carvings and artistic works from all over the world. The palace is a three storeyed building with a series of square arched towers crowned by domes. A gold-plated dome 145 from the ground covers the open courtyard in the center. The dramatic entrance way of the place takes you through the the 'Gombe Thotti' (the Doll's Pavilion) that exhibits classic European and Indian sculpture and ceremonial articles. The main entrance to the center of the palace is through the Elephant Gate, ornamented with floral designs and sporting a double-headed eagle as the royal symbol of Mysore.

Mysore on Google Maps:

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External article: Sariska - one of the nature reserves in India

2009-05-05T11:20:00.001-07:00

The Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of the most famous national parks in India located in the Alwar district of the state of Rajasthan. This area was a hunting preserve of the erstwhile Alwar state and it was declared a wildlife reserve in 1955. In 1978, it was given the status of a tiger reserve making it a part of India's Project Tiger scheme. The present area of the park is 866 km². The park is situated 107 km from Jaipur and 200 km from Delhi.
Some of the wildlife found in the Sariska Tiger Reserve include the Bengal tiger, leopard, jungle cat, caracal, striped hyena, golden jackal, chital, sambhar, nilgai, chinkara, four-horned antelope 'chousingha', wild boar, hare, hanuman langur, and plenty of bird species and reptiles. The reserve's tiger population disappeared in 2005.

Brief excerpts from an article detailing a trip to Sariska on Ghumakkar.com (link)

On a hot summer day, one thing which you can do, apart from sipping an equally hot cup of tea, is to visit Sariska. It’s a big ‘Tiger Reserve’ in India’s biggest state, Rajasthan. Its close to Alwar city and is at a 4.5 hrs driving distance from Delhi. So that’s what a group of young software engineers did on March 31, 2007.
Sariska, essentially has one long tar road which is flanked by dry-rocky forest on both sides. There are tracks which fork from the main road, travel inside the jungle for a mile or two and then again join the main road. You can only drive on the main road in your own car and you don’t miss much if you don’t venture inside. But it’s a good idea to rent a jeep which can be had at RTDC office at the gate which will take you inside these tracks. At the gate, you car is frisked to check for any liquor so be warned and have the right preparation. After about 10 KMs the road reaches a point where one end goes to Pandupole, the Hanuman temple, which is the traditional or more common road, the other goes to Kali Ghati. Apart from Pandupole, the other big milestone within Sariska is the fort, which is an old ruined structure and it can get scary since you don’t find any one there, but an ok adventure to have.

Map of Sariksa on Google Maps:

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