Chardham Yatra by Helicopter- Importance and Facts

The Chardham yatra is a blissful journey to the four pedestals of divinity namely Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri respectively. The pedestals of divinity are revered and frequented by the pious Hindu devotees every year to seek the holy blessings of gods and goddesses who hold the seat. The Chardham Tour by Helicopter offers unique experience of the pilgrimage as the devotees fly past the majestic and snow capped Himalayan ranges and they explore the mesmerizing topography of divine land from closer distance. Chardham Yatra by helicopter not only saves total traveling time, but also give the opportunity to the pilgrims to explore the richness of calm and composed surroundings and give a splendid feel altogether.

The Helicopter service is easy way to take the celestial journey abode to the shrines and holy places in Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. For the Hindu devotees, especially those who travel from across the seas to be the part of annual holy ensemble do not have much of time in their hands, and therefore, Chardham Yatra by helicopter is their preferred choice by all the means. The Helicopter service is available for devotees from the Agastya Muni to Kedarnath; and the holy journey offer them the best of both worlds- journey by feet and aerial journey. The Chardham yatra by helicopter truly offers unique experience to the devotees and it is heart rending too. 

The Kedarnath Yatra by helicopter offers the opportunity to the devotees to get mesmerized in the nature’s marvelous escapes and scenic beauty.  The Helicopter Service for Chardham yatra begins from Agastya Muni, lying 17 kms. from Rudraprayag and the total time is approximately 45 minutes. Devotees who to take off from the cumbersome travel procedures should prefer Helicopter service for Chardham yatra. The devotees boarding the helicopter from Agastya Muni are offered a halt of approximately one and a half hours at Kedarnath for spiritual and adventure sighting. Devotees who want to explore the divine serenity of Kedarnath can also choose to reside in the splendid resorts or hotel accommodations and catch the helicopter return to Agastya Muni on the following day at 11:10 AM. With the introduction of helicopter service for Chardham yatra, the comfort of undertaking spiritual journey has increased for the devotees. 

Helicopter service for Char Dham tour is organized by the local tour and travel operators and the helicopter services are arranged in conjunction with the private and government aviation operators. Maximum of 6 to 7 pilgrims can take the pilgrimage of Chardham Yatra in the Helicopter. You need to consult the tour operator about the latest rates and the availability of time for the Helicopter service.

Keep in your mind that you look for cost effective deals on Chardham tour by searching and comparing at the reliable tourist websites. In this manner, you will also save the precious time as well have the spiritual endowment. You can also book for the helicopter service online and it will not take more than few minutes.

Solitude and Romance in the Himalayas

Nature and romance has a very special connection. Being closest to the nature makes you realises life’s greatest blessings and seeing the world from a close distanced makes us want to celebrate our vital emotions like love, faith and fear. May be, that is why the greatest of the temples rests in the high mountains or by the gurgling rivers. Because, staying close to nature makes you realise the existence of the special power that keeps us grounded to this earth and life. May be this is why, the most romantic places on earth are always found in distance meadows.  And for the same reason, we seek thrill to overcome our fears by overcoming some of the most feared natural forces in the world. Nature has this magic to make us realise our true existence. 

Thus, celebrating a union with nature has always been a favourite practice by men. From getting married by the beach to discovering romance in the deep seas- some of the most romantic affairs in the world are celebrated in places full of natural bounty. Speaking of such celebrations, most of the honeymooners are often headed to places away from the hassled city life and try discovering romance through rejuvenation. Among many popular honeymoon destinations in India, Himachal Pradesh tops the list by being the most easily accessible, pocket friendly fairytale spot in India. Honeymoon in the valley by the lofty mountains and red rhododendrons may sound like a picture torn from a romance novel but that special feeling really exists. 

Life can be indeed a fairy tale romance when you rattle through the snow by a colonial train. A train ride up to Shimla from Delhi during the winters is the perfect thing to kick off your honeymoon. And a different world waits at the end of those snow covered railway tracks. A languid evening by the fire place in a well maintained hotel is a common activity in Shimla as the place is full of specially designed honeymoon accommodations. Further, strolling the famous Mall Road with your partner hand in hand or riding on a Yak in Kufri, in the upper Shimla- a honeymoon in Shimla can be the most beautiful to happen to you. 

These days, honeymoon in Himachal Pradesh has been made further special by the addition of many adventure sports activities where couples can explore their wilder sides by paragliding over the breathtaking valleys or hiking in the wining pathways.  For those seeing more privacy and solitude, picnic spots away from popular towns like Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala can be a better option. Cottages and special spa facilities are also available in different isolated spots where the only sound you hear is of the gurgling rivers and frolicking birds and the chuckles of your partner. There are other many tourist places in Himachal for honeymooners.

A spa experience is probably the ultimate honeymoon experience where you get to combine the benefits of the Himalayan climate, Ayurveda and great company. The result is a relaxed and happy you. Thus, when you return from an exotic honeymoon in the Himachal, the only thing you remember is the bliss you were gifted with. And what can be a better option than shopping to make your partner happy and ask yourself in the glory of togetherness.

Although, it is not necessary to seek romance outside the confinements of your daily life, a gateway definitely helps in putting together the special parts of your life. Thus, celebrating your honeymoon in the wilderness is the most beneficial exercise you can effortlessly perform. 

Special Himachal packages for honeymoon are available all around the year and each of them only specialize in blowing your mind away. A honeymoon package can be booked from any authorized tour operator but make sure you discuss the facilities beforehand. 

Article Source: http://majestictourindia.wordpress.com/2011/11/30/solitude-and-romance-in-the-himalayas/

Up Close With Nature at Corbett National Park

Rejuvenation is a state of mind when you get rid of stress and fatigue through different relaxation techniques. It can be a holiday in a serene place, a simple massage or reading your favorite author- any special thing that relaxes your nerves is a rejuvenation exercise. However, a holiday, being the most popular technique with stressed out city birds, always scores the highest points for relaxation.  Getting away from our routine life into the wild or a closer distance to nature can actually help our stressed nerves and spending some time with family or alone in such serene environments can actually encourage us to celebrate life’s simple joys. Thus, when it comes to nature, what can be a better place than a wild life sanctuary to feel the pulse of nature? Luckily, India is a naturally rich topography with diverse regions of many wild life wonders. If you count all the accessible wildlife zones in the country, a few places always top the list and the Jim Corbett National Park is one of them.

Named after the hunter and conservationist Jim Corbett, this park is the oldest national park in the country. Situated in Nainital district of the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is famous for being a protected zone for the critically endangered Royal Bengal tiger of India. Thanks to the initiative taken by the park authorities. The conservation project at Corbett is known as Project Tiger which makes a trip to this park even more special.  No wonder, the park is considered one of the safest and most visited ecotourism destinations in India, Corbett has been a haunt for tourists and nature lovers from all over the world. However, tourism activity is only allowed in selected areas inside the park. Splendid landscapes, suitable accommodation facilities and adventure sports options in the park, thus, make it an ideal location for seeking relaxation. Not to mention, the diverse wildlife to keep people hooked.

What makes this park unique is the combination of hills, marshes, grass lands and lakes-an exotic canvas for nature spotting. Moreover, the ideal climatic conditions make it accessible all round year. So, from wildlife safaris to fishing in the nearby rivers- a visit to Corbett National Park ensures a complete rejuvenation package. And, most importantly, the line between the human existence and the nature has been drawn clearly at Corbett where accommodation facilities are located at a reasonable distance from the wild habitats. 

Apart from the options of bird watching, elephant safari, jeep safari, there are other options available too. These include, camping near the park to rappelling. However, nothing beats the joy of locating a special tiger in an early morning safari. The best time to visit the park is during the winter months when the sun is less harsh and the animals love to come out of their shades to enjoy the winter noon.

This most popular zone inside the park is situated at the fringes of Patli Dun valley. An old rest house in the area only adds to the charm.  Otherwise, the spectacular view of the valley keeps people engaged. Owing to the demands, there is no dearth of accommodation facilities around Corbett. Combined packages are also available which are well suited for different requirements go the visitors. Hence, a few days in the lap of nature can be really therapeutic as the cacophony of the jungles is barely called noises.

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.