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.

An Infatuation with Thrill at Rishikesh

Named appropriately after Lord Vishnu’s one of the innumerable names, Rishikesh (Hrishikesh) has always done justice to its meaning. As the word Hrishikesh denotes Lord of the senses, the whole city brings one’s senses alive when it comes to appreciating the mysticism and natural charisma of the place. After winning the great altitude, as you pan your eyes from the red flags strewn all over this beautiful town to the blushing sun at the horizon, a surge of energy automatically flows into your veins. This is because you have always known the color red as the symbol of positive energy. Probably, this is why you will find red in the highest arc of a rainbow and it is the first color to disappear from your vision as the night approaches. But, the red lost during twilight is soon replaced by a spread of yellow as soon as the ‘Ganga Aarti’ begins at the Triveni Ghat. At this moment the concrete stairs, Vedic hymns, countless oil lamps and clinking bells outline a world oblivious to the usual commotion in this small town just 138 miles away from Delhi.

However, the geography of Rishikesh is what makes the place an incredible destination. Blessed with untamed rivers originating from some of the high altitude Himalayan glaciers, serene jungles around verdant hillocks and the some of the toughest pilgrimage roots, Rishikesh is a perfect holiday destination and a trip to Rishikesh is unquestionably incomplete without a fling with one’s adventurous streaks. For instance, a taste of Rishikesh rafting in the gushing white waters of the mighty Ganges flowing past the immaculate green cover is an adventure seeker’s final bliss and for an adventure seeker rafting is in itself a pilgrimage and the path leading to salvation definitely lies in the wild and turbulent river rapids! 

Setting aside the extreme monsoon months, September to December and March to June are the preferred seasons to go wild at the Ganges. Brhampuri Shivpuri, Byasi ,Kaudiyala near Rishikesh are the best spots to enjoy and explore the great Ganges abundant with rich flora and fauna by its sides. For the beginners it is the starting of an infatuation with thrill and for those already addicted, it satiates the hunger for adventure. This is because rafting stretches in Rishikesh include all types of rapid from grade I to the tougher grade V rapids with enhanced rafting facilities suitable for all types of adventure enthusiasts. 

The challenges involved in tackling the wild rapids are the most thrilling part and the lure of the wilderness is so intoxicating that challenging the great force of nature seems worthwhile for a change. The experience entraps one into a trance born out of sheer adrenaline rush and people come rushing all around the year just to discover the magic of rafting in the Himalayas. As they say, those born to be wild never mind experimenting.  Then, “…Darling' go make it happen…..Like a true nature's child, we were born, born to be wild…..” .The gurgling rapids you will encounter only represent your wilder side- rough and unyielding, yet deep and powerful at the same time. Moreover camping in Rishikesh is also famous with other adventures activities.

Almora Hill Station- An amazing Hill station in Uttarakhand

Almora was established in 1568. Almora is an amazing hill station to expediently enjoy the impressive snows cape of the Himalayas. Almora is placed at the top of a peak that is half round.

Almora is a town in the figure of a horse shoe. Almora is approx 5 km long mountain range. Almora has its own cultural, political and historical importance. In the olden time, it was the capital of Kumaon. It was set up by King Balo Kalyan Chand in 1563. The courts, governmental offices, forts and other historical monuments are still present today. Two rivers, Suyal and Koshi flow close to the Almora. The snow capped peaks of the Himalayas seem like a long train of ice and snow from here.
Every spot of Almora is full with charming beauty and the city has maintained its olden tradition even today.

Almora is also called a city of temples. Placed in the middle of the city is the temple of Goddess Nanda Devi. Not like Nainital, Ranikhet and Shimla, which were developed by the English, Almora is a totally developed by the Indians. Almora has lot of fruit gardens like apricots, plums, apples, peaches, etc.

Places to See in Almora:

Chitai Temple: Chitai temple is very famous temple in this area. Many people of Kumaon come here and worship of lord Golu. This temple is dedicated to Lord Golu. Once a wish is fulfilled people hang up bells in this temple. So there are many bells hanging on the wall. The vision of the Himalayas is very attractive from here.

Bright End Corner: Bright End Corner is 2 kms away from Almora. This point is famous for the sunrise and the sunset view of the Himalayan peaks. In this place you can spend some peaceful time surrounded by the nature. 

Katarmal: This temple is dedicated to the Sun. It is 800 year old temple. The temple is also called Sun temple. This temple is second in importance after the Sun Temple of Konark in Orissa. This temple is 17 kms away from Almora.

Deer Park: Deer Park is 3 kms away from Almora.

Nanda Devi Temple: This is thousand year old temple. This is the one main attraction of Almora. Every year a great festival held here.

Kasar Devi:  Kasar Devi temple is Near of Kalimutt. This was built in the second century. The distance between Kasar Devi and Kalimatt is very less. You can easily cover it by foot.

Around Almora:

Bageshwar:
Bageshwar is tourist place. It is 90Km. far from the Almora. Bageshwar is the main place for the Pindari Glacier tour. Bageshwar is placed at altitude of 3,825 meters.

Baijnath:
Baijnath is 70 kms. from the Almora. This is very old temple at the bank of Gomti River in a plane valley. Baijnath at a height of 1126 meters. The temples are observed upon, for its heritage and statue stone work. This temple was built by Katyuri leader.

Jageshwar:
Jageshwar is situated 34 kms from Almora. There is an olden Shiva temple at Jageshwar. This temple is enclosed by enormous fur trees. The Jageshwar Shiva temple holds archaeological importance too. The plan of this temple is appeal giving a close examination.

Travel Information :
By Road: Almora is well linked with all important cities of India by road like Delhi, Jaipur, Calcutta, Mumbai and many more .

By Air: The close airport is a Pant Nagar. During the summer regular flights are operational.

By Rail: The nearest railway station near Almora is Kathgodam.

Do Dham Yatra - Holiest Pilgrimage and Paradise

Char Dham Yatra is one of the holiest pilgrimage tours in India.  Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri, Gangotri are conjointly called Char Dham. Those pilgrims are situated at the magnificent location, of the top of the Himalaya. Every Hindu wants to see those places once in the lifetime to wash all the sins and get the peace of body, mind and soul. 

All temples of Char Dham are up in the Himalayan Glaciers and every Dham is the main resource of holy rivers in India like Yamunotri is for Yamuna River, Gangotri is for Bhagirathi River, Kedarnath is for Mandakini River and Badrinath is for Alaknanda. 

Chardham Yatra takes a long time to complete so some devotees splits the yatra it in two terms each term is called Do Dham Yatra and covers two sacred shrines.

Do Dham Yatra and its shrine’s description are as followings: 

Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham:

Both famous temples are located into the top of Garhwal Himalaya. Shri Kedarnath Dham Temple is constructed by Adi Shri Shankaracharya, dedicated to Lord Shiva.  This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Kedarnath is situated at an altitude of 3584meters surrounded by snow covered mountains of majestic Himalaya. To arrive Kedarnath temples devotees need to cover 14kms trekking rout.  Main attraction of Kedarnath Dham are Shri Kedarnath ji temple, Gaurikund, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Agatsyamuni Temples, Ukhimath and many more.

Badrinath is 213kms far away from Kedarnath Dham. Badrinath temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This is elevated at 3133meters above from the sea level. Badrinath temple is the main pilgrim of Chardham Yatra. It’s also created by Adi Shri Shankaracharya in 8th century. Badrinath temple has an amazing scenic location. Main spot to visit at Badrinath Dham are  Badrinarayan Temple, Badri Vishal Temple, Vridha Badri,  Adi Badri (Karnprayag)Tapt Kund, Narad Kund, Shishnetra, Panch Shilas, Vyas Gufa, Brahama Kamal, Panch Shila many more. Badrinath temple is well connected by road.

Yamunotri and Gangotri Dham:

Yamunotri is the origin of the sanctified river Yamuna. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Yaumuna. It is situated at the altitude of 3165meters above from the sea level.  The main attraction of this place is Yamunotri temple, Divya Shila and Surya Kund, hot water pond. Devotees use this pond for making Prasad. There is 5kms trekking area to arrive the main temple.

Gangotri temple is located at 3042meters height. The holy river Ganga first came down to earth at this place. The sacred stone, designed as the locks of Lord Shivji is near the main temple. The main temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. According to mythology mighty Ganga came into the earth in form of river to wash the sins of King Sagar’s son.  Most visiting place at Gangotri are Gaumukh, Sattal many more. Gangotri is well connected by road.

Visiting those temples has not only spiritual importance but also a breathtaking adventurous and scenic experience. Do Dham yatra form covers the tour in short time duration without any lack of its religious significance. Best time duration of Do Dham Yatra is May to October. Skip the heavy rainy season July and August.

Gangotri – The origin of Sacred River Ganga

Gangotri Dham

Ganga, the sacred river for the Hindu’s is believed to be the embodiment of Goddess Ganga, the daughter of Heaven and Gangotri is the spot where this river comes into contact with the earth. The heavenly presence of the tall mountains and gushing streams make the ethereal beauty of this small town a very special experience.  Situated in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Gangotri is one of the four holy spots of Chardham Yatra that covers four of the holiest spots in the Devbhumi (Land of God).  Mythological connection speaks of a beautiful story of Ganga who manifested herself in the form of a river in order to wash away the sins of King Bhagirath and his ancestors and to reduce the destructive power of her divine fall into the earth; Lord Shiva received her into his tresses.

This connection surely explains the fact that the whole Himalayan region in this part of Uttarakhand is scattered with many significant shrines of Lord Shiva. Bhagirath, grand son of King Sagar is believed to have performed sever penance to bring down Ganga so that she could cleanse away the ashes of his ancestors who were killed by sage Kapil’s rage.  Thus, Ganga and the land blessed by its presence is said to possess cleansing prowess.

The temples worth visiting near the area are Vishwanath temple, Ekadash Rudra temple, Gyaneshwar temple and Kuteti Devi Temple. Every year, during the ‘Magh Mela’ during Makar Sankranti (January) Uttarkashi is flooded with devotees who toil on to take a holy dip in Ganga.

Besides its religious importance, Gangotri is famous for its challenging Gangotri glacier that is a rafter’s ultimate challenge. The road up to the glacier is also trekked by hikers. The trek ends at a scenic spot called Nandanvan known for its serene meadows. However, the trek is a challenging task because of the high altitude. But, for the enthusiastic hikers there is an option to polish trekking skills in the form of the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering.

For nature lovers, Gangotri has many interesting spots carefully tuck away from the concrete life.  Kedar Tal just 18 kilometers away is a magnificent lake and the mighty Thalaiyasagar peak peepes out of its abode at its backdrop. Often used as base camp for trekkers, this lake area is Gangotri’s most beautiful spot. At the same distance there also lies Gaumukh, the muzzle of the Gangotri Glacier, the exact source of the Ganges. This spot is also considered sacred by the Hindus.

The religious importance of the place however demands expansion of this small town and accommodation facilities are gradually increasing. This has made travelling to Gangotri much easier now a day.  The small town does not have much entertainment to offer since the tranquility of the hills is supposed to sooth our minds the most uncomplicated way. One can collect ancient coins from the local market which is the best souvenir. This sacred town does not permit alcoholic indulgences and non vegetarian food is also not allowed inside the town premises. The best season to visit Gangotri is the summer months.