Munsiyari Hill Station, Uttarakhand

Ever heard of the ancient salt route to Tibet and the enchanting Johar valley? For those who are not aware, here is the story–owing to the transportation of one of the most valuable commodities of the ancient times i.e. salt, this route came into existence. Crossing though the wondrous glaciers and challenging valleys, this route had once made salt, our food essential the super expensive ‘white gold’. Apart from the challenges, this route itself speaks of an enigma full of challenges and delightful adventure. The route has long perished from its purpose but the adventure and beauty remains intact and a trip across this path is worth a try for roving souls. Tearing a piece of this path, at the mouth of the Johar valley there rests Munsiyari, a small town of distinct natural delights. The good news is that this region is no longer a restricted area in the Himalayan Inner Line as in the past. Wedged in between the borders of India, China and Nepal, access to Munsiyari has been now eased.

Munsiyari, a small town in the Pithoragarh district of the hill-state of Uttarakhand lies at the base of the great Himalayan mountain range. As unique as its name, this place has evolved itself as the latest favorite hill station in the state. Situated at an elevation of about 7,200 ft, Munsiyari is a trekker’s abode since a lot of the great Himalayan hiking kicks off from this small abode of mountains and green forests. The name suggests a ‘place with snow’ and when the winter is miles away from the rest of the country, this place gathers up soft coats of snow over its green sheath but the effect only comes out more positive.

The whiteness around the Goriganga River banks are justifiable reason to spend one’s winter vacations, however, for the adventure seekers this place is a bustling spot during the summer months. And for those who never mind the seasonal interference, Munsiyari is a place to be in any part of the year. Don’t be surprised when you spot different types of people visiting this small town-from meditating souls, mountaineers, glacier enthusiasts, trekkers, nature lovers to tired city folk-this place has answer to all the needs. For the nature lovers, the region is home of leopard, panther, mountain bear, musk deer and other animals and birds.

The main attraction in Munsiyari is its large garden of Rhododendron called Betulidhar. Rhodendron happens to be the state flower of Uttarakhand and a visit to Munsiyari is incomplete until some time is spent this. But, the Nanda Devi Temple, at a 3km stimulating trek from Munsiyari is the most visited site in the area. The temple, no doubt, has placed Uttarakhand in the Indian pilgrimage map. Besides, a trip to Darkot and Madkot, two most picturesque spots near Munsiyari, is often recommended for those who are interested in nature walks but not hiking.

Visit Munsiyari during the monsoon and you will be overwhelmed to see the water gurgling out of the Birthi Falls. It is unimaginable to envision this lively fall standing frozen during the winters when you see it in its monsoon glory. Falling from a height of 126 mts, this falls defines the attraction of Munsiyari in complete new fashion. For those who want to explore beyond these, there are innumerable reasons, legends and locations to spend a memorable vacation here

Discovering Himachal Pradesh and its Tourist Places

Generally known as the ‘fruit bowl of India’, Himachal Pradesh is famous for many special reasons.  Being the picture perfect mosaic of beauty and culture, this place is one of the most widely visited states in India and probably houses the most number of tourist destinations ( each having unique weather conditions and natural treasures at different points of elevation) after Uttarakhand. 

Speaking of the British Raj, Shimla, present day capital of the state, was the special summer administrative region.  Today, Shimla tourism attracts the largest chunk of tourists in summer seeking a relief from the scorching city heat. A train ride from the national capital of Delhi to Shimla is the best way to   romance the hills, pine forests and snowy valleys.  Further, the romance is deepened by a completely Colonial setting this city offers. Old buildings from the time of the Raj, crowded streets filled with summer weary travelers markets flocked by fruit vendors, everything in Shimla represents a perfect world.  Comes the winter, the same warm streets turn in to white sheets of snow and the fun quotient takes a different nature. But, no matter, what time of the year it is, Shimla is one place that always remains crowded.  Thanks to the sense of nostalgia in the air, a visit to Shimla is always special to the people from all over the world.

However, the place also offers wooded ravines in the solitary mountain pathways which are perfect for a rejuvenating walk. Otherwise, Shimla is a trekker’s paradise too. Not to forget the other adventure sports options.  Thus, Shimla offers everything from a shopping filled family vacations to adrenaline rushed adventure seekers. Ideally, these are the exact things a popular hill station offers.

Moving upwards from Shimla, tracing the Bias River, there lays another charming small town named Kullu. A small valley on the river bank, Kullu is known as the valley of the gods as the vast emerald Deodar forests remind one of a forbidden charm.  Usually, Kullu is visited as a part of a Shimla-Kullu-Manali route, where travelers on the way to Manali stop by just to spend a lazy evening by the Bias River or to buy the famous Kullu handloom shawls. 

Following the same river trail, as you move upwards, the deodar forests begins to recede and beds of organized cultivations starts appearing.  The scenery mostly filled with ripe apple orchards and wooden houses- typically indicates the existence of a nearby town. And, the apple orchards lead to this neat and clean town of Manali. Like many other places in the state, Manali shares a very interesting mythological connection. From the Vashistha Ashram to the Hidimba Devi temple- Manali is strewn with many signage of the past.  But, rather than sightseeing, this place is ideal for a lazy summer vacation spent in the woods.  Roadside cafes, ice cream stalls and picnic spots under the blue sky are the best things to indulge in while at Manali. Paragliding over the green valley is also a favourite with the tourists. Usually, Manali is used as the base for a trek up to the Rohtang Pass that leads to Ladakh. The pass is open only in summers as high altitude makes it difficult to scale the snow in winters. 

Apart from this Shimla-Kullu- Manali circuit, Himachal tourism has other interesting hill stations like Dharamshala that falls in to the Kangra Valley and unlike the other spots in the state, is the most accessible spot in winters. The snowline in this part of the Himalayan region is easily breakable which is why this place is used as a winter time administration zone. McLeod Ganj in the suburbs is the main region of activities. Part from the breathtaking beauty of the region, Dharamshala is famous for being the home of the current Dalai Lama and the exiled Tibetan government.  Popular among tourists for great Tibetan food and natural beauty, Dharamshala is a quite establishment signifying the bliss of life in a small town. Thus, the place offers a pefect gateway from the hectic city life.

Steering the compass to the Shivalik range in Himachal Pradesh, one can find another tourist friendly district called Chamba. Bordering the beautiful state of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Chamba is another quiet hill station. Unlike Shimla and Manali, this region still retains its natural purity and stillness.  What makes this place special is the co-existence of an old city life and a rustic culture.  The combination makes Chamba a place to explore and get acquainted with the great Himalayan lifestyle.  From old churches, temples, monuments, fairs, museums-Chamba is one small place stuffed with many wonders. 

Moreover, for a state like Himachal Pradesh that is blessed many natural wonders, every inch is a spot to explore and discover.  Apart from the crowded streets, lonely roads and eternal discoveries await every traveller in every step.  Taking excursions out of the famous towns in to the wild is an option that ends with many new beginnings.  Places like Nahan, Lahual Spiti, Palampur-are also catching up with the other popular tourist places in the state.  The state tourism board offers many facilities to tourists to explore adventure and relax in different parts of the state thus making it a destination offering every possible mode of thrill and bliss.

Dhikala Forest Zone – Best Area for Fascinating Tiger Safari in India

Dhikala Forest Zone the most wanted site in Corbett National Park because of its biggest safari area, dense forest and home of different kind of flora and fauna. Dhangarhi is the main entrance gate for Dhikala zone. It is 18kms far from the Ramnagar.  Forest Department checks all the permits at the entrance gate.  A small museum and souvenir shop is also there. After entering the gate the breathtaking wild area is waiting for you to enjoy the hilarious wildlife experience. 

Forest Lodges of Dhikala Zone: 

Corbett Tiger Reserve has forest lodges in different places of Dhikala zone. Visitors stay there and enjoy their wildlife safari. Famous Forest Lodges are:

Dhikala Forest Lodge: 

The most demanding forest lodge of Dhikala zone is, Dhikala Forest Lodge. It is 32kms far from the main entrance gate. This forest lodge is located at Patli Doon valley, at the edge of Ramganga River. Dhikala forest lodge has the maximum capacity of rooms. There are total 22 rooms and 24 bedded dormitories are available for accommodation and a well organise canteen by KMVN for having food. The lodge is covered by solar electricity fencing for the safety of tourists.  

Gairal Forest Lodge:

Gairal is the second most staying place at Dhikala zone. It is also located at the bank of river Ramganga. There are only eight rooms and one eight bedded dormitory. KMVN canteen is also available at there.  Solar fencing also makes this rest house very safe. 

Sarp Duli Forest Lodge:

At Sarp Duli, only 2 rooms and 1 four bedded dormitory is available. This is the most peaceful place of Dhikala. Canteen facility is not available at this rest house so tourists must take their belongings and food arrangements with them during the stay. 

Sultan Forest Lodge:  

Sultan is the first forest lodge which comes, after entering the Dhangari gate. There are only two rooms to accommodate. To stay at this forest lodge may little bit risky because there is not any electricity fencing around the forest lodge. 

Safari Area of Dhikala Zone: 

Dhikala is the most favourite place of tourists because of its various adventurous safari routes. Visitors can enjoy wildlife safari with open jeep and elephant both. Main safari routes are Dhikala Grass land, Sambhar Road, Ram Singh Road, Thandi Sadak, Mota Sal. There are various water holes in every area where one can get the great opportunity to see the majestic tiger. There are two watch towers from where tourists can keep their eyes in every movement of the wild animals. The crocodile point at the high bank area is famous for watching the Crocodiles and Ghariyals. 

Dhikala was the main hunting zone of Corbett National Park before making the tiger reserve. Now tourists can hunt the animals only with their cameras. Dhikala zone opens mid November to mid June and every wildlife enthusiast wants to visit Corbett – Dhikala once. Because there are very limited accommodation facilities, so it is advisable to make their bookings in advance. You can found various Dhikala Tour Packages through internet.