Category: Adventure

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Adventure North India Staycation

Sit back, read your favorite book in the arms of the mountains at Khembharti Homestay

Not known to many, Banjar in Himachal Pradesh has earned the name as an amazing tourist destination as it offers enticing key attractions to the tourists and hosts a chilly atmosphere. Khem Bharti Homestay contributes to the grandeur of the beauteous Banjar. Be it this place or any other destination in the country the stay becomes even more comfortable with the home staying options emerging. One such homestay in the very beautiful Tirthan valley is Khembharti that makes your stay incomparable to others.

The sole purpose behind the establishment of a guest house or homestay is to provide the tourists a feeling of being at home while wandering around sightseeing in an alien place. And as it happens, Khembharti excels in that regard. The surrounding beauty of the place serves as a perfect companion for the tourists spending their night here. On the top of it, the best services are being provided to them just makes the experience further more worthwhile.

How to reach

This homestay in Banjar can be easily reached via travel hubs such as Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation Bus Stand (6 km) and Kullu Manali Airport (56 km). One can also visit Tirthan (1 km) and Hamani Temple (1 km).  The hotel is located across the Tirthan River on the main road.

About the place

Khembharti hotel is known to be one of the most affordable budget hotels in the entire Banjar region. The popularity of the hotel is quite evident if you visit there in the holiday season. Most probably, you would not be able to find the rooms. The entire place is a two storey building with an enthralling architecture and comprises of 4 rooms.  The hotel accommodates a total of 5 well-spaced rooms with all the basic amenities. The rooms are cleaned from time to time by the very efficient hotel staff and the warm hospitability one receives at the reception just adds on to the overall experience of staying in a high profile place such as this.

Services provided

–The impeccable parking service provided by the hotel is widely appreciated. The tourists can safely park their vehicles here and go on their sightseeing adventure without any worries.

-The hotel has appointed a well-trained staff of physicians so that the tourists receive immediate medical attention in case of an emergency.

-Laundry facilities at Khembharti meet the international standards.

-Luggage storage also happens to be here.

-In case you have booked your rooms in advance, the hotel appointed vehicles can pick you up from airport and while checking out, you will be dropped off at the airport as well.

-The hotel provides free wi-fi access to all their rooms.

-The in-room amenities ensure a comfortable stay at the place. The wakeup calls and breakfast in bed along with a flawless supply of warm and cold water and electricity are without a question, the best you can ever get on a budget.

Conclusion

The next time to decide to make a trip to Tirthan valley, remember to plan your stay at Khem Bharti Homestay for its welcoming hospitality and good accommodation.

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Adventure Himalayas North east North India Treks

Highest lakes in India, that gives breathtaking views!!

Trekking to a high altitude lake might be a strenuous task to undertake but the magical scenic beauty that it offers is completely worth the efforts. The following listed lakes are located at enough heights to keep them frozen during the winter season which adds on to their magnificence.

Pangong Tso, Ladakh

Located at an altitude of 4,250 meters in Ladakh, Pangong Tso is one of Asia’s largest salt-water lakes and is just 5 hours drive away from Leh. Its azure waters spread over an area of 100 kilometres across the borders of two countries- one-third of it lies in India while the remaining two-third lies in Tibet and a majority of the streams that constitute the lake are located in the latter part. Also known as the Hollow Lake, its brackish water along with sunlight produces beautiful light effects. During winters, the surface of the lake freezes and an ice skating festival is organised on it, inviting contenders from all over the world.

 Roop Kund, Uttarakhand

This high- altitude glacial lake is located in Uttarakhand and it takes 2 days to trek 30 km to it from Lohajung. The bottom of the lake contains the bones of humans as well as animals, the reason behind which is not clearly known yet and this very fact gives it a thrilling touch. The lake has a depth of only about 2 metres and the skeletons become visible once the water melts.

Tsongmo/Changu Lake, Sikkim

Situated at 12,313 feet above sea level, the glacial lake Tsomgo is nearby Gangtok, which makes it a great getaway option for not only locals but also tourists. This lake although small in size, has a unique and fascinating feature, which bestows upon it an important place in Buddhism and Hinduism alike. Due to natural factors, its surface reflects different colours during the changing seasons of the year.

Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

Gurudongmar Lake’s altitude of about 17,800 feet makes it one of the highest lakes in the world. It is located 190 km away from Gangtok and 5 km to the south of the Chinese border.  Considered sacred by both Sikhs and Buddhists, Guru Padmasambhava of the Sikhs is believed to have visited this place. The area around the lake is inhabited by various high altitude animals but disappointingly its clear waters have now become polluted due to local interference.

Suraj Tal, Himachal Pradesh

Suraj Tal or the Surya Tal literally means the Lake of the Sun God and is the third highest lake in India and the 21st highest in the world.  It is located in the Lahaul and Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh, just below the Bara-lacha-la pass. This lake is the source of the Bhaga river which is a tributary of Chenab river. Its climatic conditions are similar to the poles of the Earth due to which the lake remains frozen for the most part of the year.

Categories
Adventure Asia Himalayas Spiritual Hubs Treks

Everything you would like to know about Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Mythological Importance:

The Tiger’s Nest is another name of Paro Taktsang or Taktsang Palphug Monastery. It is a sacred temple of the Buddhists that was built in 1692 in Bhutan, around the Taktsang Senge Samdup Cave. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava had meditated in these caves for three years, three months, three weeks, three days and three hours in the 8th century. Today, Paro Taktsang is famous for the 13 ‘tiger lair’ caves in which he had meditated.

A temple which is devoted to Padmasambhava (also known as the Temple of the Guru with Eight Names) is a classic structure built around the cave by Tenzin Rabgye in 1692. Therefore, it is Bhutan’s cultural icon.

According to legends, Guru Padmasambhava came here from Tibet, on a tigress’ back from Khenpajong.

There is also an alternative story by another legend that stated that the former wife of the emperor Yesh Tsogyal willingly became the disciple of Guru Padmasambhava. She transformed into a tigress and carried him on her back. Consequently, the place came to be known as the ‘Tigers Nest’.

It is also believed that Tenzin Rabgye, the builder of the monastery in 1692, was the reincarnation of the Guru Padmasambhava.

How to reach the Tiger Nest Monastery?

The Monastery is 10 km to the north of Paro in Bhutan, at an elevation of about 10,000 ft. You can reach the Tiger’s Nest by walking or on horseback. It is a quite challenging trek, you gain merit with every step but the view of the Paro Valley from the monastery is worth the endeavor. The trek starts from the valley floor which is at about 7000 ft and it takes about 2-3 hours (on an average) to complete the hike. It starts with slow climbs into serene pine forests where you will find water- powered pray wheels and flags. It is said these are for trekkers to be bestowed upon with power and stamina to complete the forthcoming journey. From here onwards, the climb becomes steep, arduous and steady up to a ridge. Horse- ride is only allowed till the second viewpoint due to some accidents that took place in the past.Once you reach the monastery you will find the atmosphere to have become mystical; you will find a deep sense of calmness and peace. Also, you should seek blessings from the monks. It is the true feeling of being a pilgrim!

Travel Notes:

  • Wear hiking shoes and it is better to wear thick socks as you have to remove your shoes at the entry.
  • Bring your hiking poles. If you forget, you can buy a wooden walking stick at the parking lot.
  • Bring your rain gear as the weather is unpredictable.
  • The hike should be done at the end of your trip to give you more time to acclimatize to the altitude.
  • Walk at a steady pace and avoid walking fast and resting too much.
  • It is recommended to start the hike early in the morning.

So get set and go to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan if you want to have an adventurous cum religious trip!

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Adventure Beaches South India Western India

Best places to enjoy Marine Life in India

Swimming side by side innumerable schools of dazzling fishes, peeking under the corals hoping to spot an unusual marine creature, adoring the heavy silence as you blade through azure waters with only the noise of your inhalation to accompany you – yes, that is what snorkeling is all about. The Ghoomophiro team checks out the best snorkeling destinations in India as follows.

The Andamans

Snorkeling in the magnificent and turquoise waters of the Andaman Islands is equivalent to doing it in Seychelles or Maldives. Havelock Island, known for its flawless, white sand beaches, is the ultimate hub for lovers of the sport. Unadulterated coral reefs remain of sunken sea vessels, gorgeous underwater rock formations, and lively marine life- all make for an amazing and unforgettable experience. Cinque Islands and Passage Island, which are known for shark sightings, are other famous spots in the Andamans.

Lakshwadeep

The best thing about Lakshwadeep is that it is less frequented as a tourist destination. The reefs around the islands are pure and unspoiled by human intervention plus the beautiful blue waters bustle with a variety of sea life. Kadmat Islands and Bangaram are the most visited and the former even has a diving school. Tourism policies for Lakshwadeep keep on changing, so make sure you acquire the required permits before planning a vacation.

Goa

Goa, India’s party capital is also a paradise for water sports aficionados. More than the sea life, which is present in plenty in the tepid waters of the Arabian Sea, it is the shipwrecks along the coastline that pull divers from all over the globe to this place. Some of the most well- known sites are Wreck of Suzy, Grande Island, Bay of Bounty and Cove of Shelter. Expect to sight angelfish, parrotfish, barracudas, snappers and Moorish idols. You should avoid going here during monsoons as the water gets dull and the ebbs are not very welcoming.

Maharashtra

Tarkarli is a hidden treasure on the Konkan coast. The Sindhudurg Fort has a grand coral growth on the submerged walls which houses plenty of aquatic creatures. The pristine, unpolluted waters allow excellent visibility and since tourism is still in its initial stage, snorkeling and diving here are much cheaper comparatively. Tarkarli is easily accessible by road from Goa, Pune, and Mumbai.

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

Pondicherry may not have acquired a name as a scuba diving destination in India but you’ll be happily surprised with what its warm waters have to provide. Arvind’s Wall, 4 Corners, Cool Shark Reef, The Hole and Danny’s Eel Sanctuary are pervasive with aquatic life and you can spot sea snakes, parrot fish, lion fish, crustaceans, groupers, moray eels, and triggerfish. If you are lucky enough, you may even have a tete-a-tete with a turtle or a reef shark. Chennai is the closest airport to Pondicherry.

Netrani Island, Karnataka

This tiny island off the coast of Karnataka is growing quickly in fame as a snorkeling destination. Also called as the Pigeon Island, Netrani is a coral island that is accessible from Bengaluru, Goa, and Mumbai. Barracudas, manta rays, stingrays, reef sharks, turtles, and stonefish are commonly sighted around this place. Because sharp rocks surround the island, it is not really possible to step onto it, Therefore, snorkeling expeditions are often launched from a vessel. The monsoon season should be avoided.So, a shout out to all the snorkeling enthusiasts to visit these amazing sites in India!

So, a big shout out to all the snorkeling enthusiasts to visit these amazing sites in India!

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Adventure Beaches Corporate Outings Spiritual Hubs

Gokarna – The little picturesque town

Located right in the heart of Karnataka, Gokarna is one little temple town renowned for its picturesque rocky beaches, hills, and natural beauty soaked in religious traditions. The town is also an essential pilgrimage centre for the devotees of Hindu religion who pay a visit to this place from all over India and other countries through the year. The name of the place literally translates to ‘Cow’s Ear’, the holiest animal for Hindus.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Gokarna is the Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is about 140 km away. The nearest railway station is at Ankola, approximately 20 km.

The place is also well connected by a network of roads. The KSRTC buses ply frequently from Bengaluru, Mangalore, Hubli, and many other cities of Karnataka.

Places To See

Om Beach

The beach derived its name from its shape, which at the bird’s eye view forms a majestic ‘OM’. One of the most popular destinations in Gokarna, you should not miss this Beach for all the cool fun it packs. There are tonnes of water sports and other activities such as jet-skiing to enjoy. The beach is surrounded by a variety of Cafes and Shacks where you can enjoy some delicious foods.

Half-Moon Beach

Half-moon beach is approximately a kilometre hike from Om Beach. The beach is a potpourri of exotic locales and sparkling water world. It is normally less crowded than Om Beach and thus gives you ample opportunity to explore the place in detail.

Mahabaleshvara Temple- Dedicated to lord Mahabaleshwar, it is one of the oldest temple here and the main pilgrim site. It is said to be next in sanctity to the one and only Vishwanath Siva Temple in Varanasi. Thus, it is often regarded as ‘The Kashi of the South’.

Maha Ganpati Temple- According to the local Brahmins, the statue of Ganapati at Maha Ganpati Temple was made in the beginning of Dwapara Yuga i.e. much before the birth of Lord Krishna. The locals here believe that the Shiva temple should be visited only after first visiting the Ganesha temple.

Koti Tirtha- The name Koti Tirtha literally means – a thousand springs.  Located in Gokarna, at walking distance from the Mahabaleshwara Temple, Koti Tirtha happens to be one of the most sacred water resources where pilgrims take a bath. The importance of the lake stems from the fact that this sacred water source is a freshwater lake, fed by springs, though in such close proximity to the sea.

Mirjan Fort- Mirjan fort is a grand monument in Gokarna which serves mostly the history enthusiasts among the tourists. However, even if you aren’t a history buff, the place still remains a wonderful place to not miss.

There is the bouquet of activities that you won’t mind trying while being here.

Beach Trekking

There are five popular beaches in Gokarna. One of the best ways to explore the beauty of the place and know it from inside out is trekking along the beaches that are separated by rocky hills. Unfold the beauty of the surroundings and add the fun and excitement of trekking along the beach.

Offer Prayers in the Temples

Gorkana is originally a temple town. It is full of temples rich in history and religious values. One of the most popular temples is Mahabaleshwar Temple. The Deity of these temples is more than 1500 years old. Some other temples to visit are Ganapati Temple, Aadi Gokarneshwara Temple,  Koti Teertha among others.

Indulge in Water Sports

Your trip to any beach is incomplete if you don’t indulge water sports fun. Gokarna is a heaven for those who love waters sports and fun. Indulge in sports such as Jet-Skiing among, parasailing, banana boat rides, snorkelling or kayaking.

Places to Eat

One of the best ways to know a destination is to its food. There are some of the most exotic Cafes, Shacks, and Restaurants on the beaches. Indulge in local delicacies and be a foodie for a good reason.

The restaurants such as Shree Shakti, Pai hotel and Pritish love cafe along with the snack stalls on the beaches are appealing to everyone. However, being a pilgrim place, do not expect it to offer the nonvegetarian food.

Best time to visit

The place is full of tourists almost every time a year, so there is no specific time in a year which you must wait in order to book your tickets. But summers are the time when everybody starts getting ready for the beaches and hence, the time around it may make you struggle to book the places to stay.

Stay

Among the many, there are a few good places such as Namaste Sanjivani, Hotel Shivaprasad and the Namaste Yoga farm where you could have a great comfortable stay.

It’s going to be good fun while being at Gokarna!! An idyllic getaway for Banglorians.

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Adventure Corporate Outings North-West India

Why You will love Parasailing in these parts of India

Parasailing, aka parakiting or parascending, is a recreational kiting activity in which a person is hauled behind a vehicle (usually a boat) while attached to a distinctively designed canopy wing (like a parachute), called a parasail wing. It could either be aquatic or it could be terrestrial. Both of them have their own essence and experience to offer!The well- known states for parasailing sites in India are listed below.

Himachal Pradesh

March to October is the best time period to try out parasailing in Himachal Pradesh and Solang Valley, Dharamshala, Kullu, Manali, Lahaul Spiti and Bir Billing Valley are the sites in this state where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas while doing it.

They are suitable for professional as well as amateur parasailers and are some of the top spots for parasailing in India. Even international parasailing and paragliding events are organised here.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan is the most colourful and unconventional one of all the parasailing places in India. It is taken to be a leisure activity here and the colourful surroundings, open environment and sandy expanse enrich the experience many-folds. Adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers flock to the sandy world for its parasailing events which take place on an annual basis. The months from September to February are the best ones to undertake this activity and the good sites for parasailing in Rajasthan include Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer.

A must visit while you are on parasailing India mission!

Uttarakhand

Naukuchiatal, Doon Valley, Auli and Bedni Bugyal are some of India’s most sought after parasailing sites located in the scenic state of Uttarakhand, positioned vitally amidst the snow clad mountains and sprinkled with occasional greenery. All-encompassing views, sublime water bodies, lofty peaks, evergreen coniferous and oak forests make for a stunning view from the air. The months from May to November are the most suitable ones for undertaking this adventure sport.

Kerala

Parasailing in Kerala is an experience you will never forget in your lifetime. As the speedboat zooms off into the sea, the rush you will feel with be out of this world and your experience of parasailing in India will not be complete if you do not give Kerala a try! Alappuzha Beach, Varkala Beach and Payyambalam Beach are the famous parasailing sites in Kerala and the most appropriate months for doing so are from October to March.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a famous destination for parasailing in India because of the topographic variations in the state. Parasailing is an adventurous activity that has the sass to electrify your whole body with your shooting up through the wind. The greenery of natural parks, chiming rivers, moderate cliffs, deciduous forests, sandy beaches and expansive views augment the already stupefying experience of soaring in the sky. Matheran, Mahabaleshwar, Goa, Kamshet, Panchgani, Kundalika and Powai and are some of India’s top parasailing destinations in the western region. Parasailing in Pune is also trending now- a- days. Months from October to May are the most befitting for undertaking this activity in the region.

So which one will you cross out first from your bucket list?

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Adventure Rejoice Travel Tips Travel Trends Treks

The most beautiful Night Skies in India

Our world is full of so many natural marvels that there is not enough time for anyone on the planet to witness them all. It may take them an entire lifetime and they won’t even be able to cover half of the natural miracles that we are talking about. In India, there are many different places where one can enjoy the star gazing. This is turning out to be a great way of feeling closer to nature in the purest form. The craze is so high that people are ready to travel thousands of miles in order to get the glimpse the starry sky in all its glory.

Ladakh– In north,  Leh Ladakh is the most favourite tourist destination not just for the younger lot, but the older ones as well. One great thing about the place that there are so many places for stargazing that one can spend all nights moving from one place to another just to look at the beautiful constellations in the sky.

Andaman– This little island located in the south most part of the country is known for its beaches in the daytime and for the star gazing in the night. Lets us not just even try to compare the experience of lying under the sky at night on the beach and staring at the clear sky with stars glimmering all over with anything else. The cosmic magic is in its full glory at night and it’s a sight worth having at least once in your lifetime.

Coorg– Coorg is one of ideal places for holidays in the summers. The daytime can be spent trekking on the Nilgiri hills while the nights can be waited all day just to have the look at the sky when the stars shine.  However, the place is yet to be recognized as one good tourist spot in the area but the star gazing alone has managed to increase the flow of the tourists to a great extent.

Spiti Valley-The famous Kibber village in the Spiti valley may very well be notorious for the drugs trade but at night, it turns into a magical place. Known as the highest motorable village in the whole world, Kibber is located at about a height of 14000 feet from the sea level.

There are many other places in the beautiful country where one can experience the magic of stargazing. One of the greatest mysteries of life and the most beautiful night skies in India are here..

  • The Milky Way in Nubra Valley, Leh
  • Sonmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
  • Shahapur, Maharashtra
  • Pangong Tso, Ladakh
  • Shanti Stupa, Ladakh
  • Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Gaze at the stars, stare into the open space and absorb everything beautiful at these places in India. And do let us know about your tete-a-tete with the stars!!

Categories
Adventure Himalayas Rejoice Travel Trends

Adventure comes to life -Tirthan Valley

Ringed by the sprawling Great Himalayan National Park, jeweled with lush green forests, free-flowing rivers and tranquil and clear water sheet, the Tirthan valley is one of the most alluring places, resting in the lap of Himalayas.The Tirthan Valley has Charismatic ambiance and best idea to spend the weekend.
The beautiful land lies in Kullu district,Himachal Pradesh. The name “Tirthan”has been drawn from the majestic Tirthan river flowing in that region. It is an enduring river of cold and clear glacier water, which abundant with trout fish. It is the ideal place nature lovers and adventure freak.
The time as you reach the magnificent valley, you feel released from all exhaustion and frustration.
Things to do
The Tirthan Valley is an ultimate destination for many adventurous activities including, trout fishing, hiking, trekking, camping, bonfires, and photography.The last ten years has witnessed the huge rise in a number of travelers.This article is an attempt to guide you all through your travel to this alluring Himalayan valley.
Feel the thrill-River crossing.
The thrilling experience of River crossing in the Tirthan Valley is a most captivating adventure for people, who are fond of engaging in daring activity in the serene valley. You can enjoy the escapade sports, where you are tied with a rope and suspended freely to feel the cool spray of the tempestuous River Tirthan flowing underneath. Other than that you can try to cross the river with the help of a rope, where you’re tied with rope for safety.


Enjoy Trout fishing.
Get ready with your fishing tackle!! The Tirthan river is the best place for trying out explore your fishing skills. The crystal clear flowing water offers you an ideal spot to hunt trout fish. The travelers are love in love with this place and try yet another adventure of fish hunting.
Adventure at the peak- The Great Himalayan Park.
The beautiful and alluring view of the Great Himalayan Park will leave you mesmerized. It is an ideal place to experience the thrilling danger and unfold the unrevealed chapters of the Himalaya. It definitely gives you vacation goals to the adventure enthusiast. The region is loaded with amazing wildlife, Landscape, trekking, and fishing.


The refreshing and Stunning art of nature- Waterfalls
The alluring view of invigorating waterfalls is the best sight you definitely don’t want to miss. Find out some time to witness the extreme beauty of nature. Enjoy bathing in refreshing pure Himalayan water.


If you want a break from your hectic life, and need some quality time for yourself, then tour to tirthan valley in the laps of Himalaya is an excellent idea.
Travel tip
The best season to head towards this heavenly place is summers between March to June.
Don’t forget to carry your fish tackle!!
How to reach?
By Air: Nearest Airport is Bhunter near Kullu.
By Train: Chandigarh is the closest Railway Station.
By Road: Possible route(s) to Tirthan Valley from Delhi by road are
Delhi – Ambala (188 KM) – Chandigarh – Roopnagar (282 KM) – Kiratpur – Bilaspur (371 KM) – Mandi (440 KM) – Pandoh – Aut (481 KM) – Larji – Gushaini – Tirthan (511 KM)
The government Buses (Volvo) also head from Janpath, Delhi at 6 P.M daily and it takes 12 hrs to reach Aut. Next morning after reaching Aut you can hire taxi or bus heading towards Tirthan valley. It is about more 45 minutes drive from Aut to Tirthan

Categories
Adventure Himalayas Rejuvenate

Hidden gem of Himalayas- Prashar Lake

Located at a distance of about 40 km from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi village, the Prashar Lake lies at an altitude of 2730 m above sea level.  It has a floating island and the depth of the lake has not been determined yet.  A Pagoda style temple was built near it, in the 13th century and is dedicated to sage Prashar who is believed to have meditated at the place. One remarkable thing about the temple is that it is entirely made up of just one Deodar tree. Its sinuous carvings of snakes and other animals augment its splendour. A lot of natives and people from around the globe arrive here during the yearly festival of the temple that is held in June. Some peaceful time can be spent at this place, away from the human habitation and its aura will start blending with your soul.

The trek to Prashar Lake is a pleasant one. It is not very famous but is slowly gaining popularity among people. The 6-7 km trek starts from Baagi Village. The initial 1.5 km runs along a local rivulet but the real hike starts after that only. En route, you will come across a Shiva trident. It is better to keep cross – checking with people whom you meet on the way, to make sure that you are moving on the right track. The directions are not properly marked so one has to be careful. You will find horses and cows on the way and the views of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar and Kinnaur mountain ranges are amazing. The path becomes slippery when it rains.

Once you reach the top, you will start feeling rejuvenated. The pollution- free air of the hills will boost up your energy and stamina making you feel revitalised. At some occasions, clouds welcome the hikers too!

Accommodation options include the PWD and Forest Department Rest Houses but it is recommended to book rooms in these two from beforehand only to be assured of their availability. When you fail to do so, you might be allowed to stay in the Prashar Mandir’s premises as well.

Making Parashar Lake as your base camp, you can try to go further on a 12 km trek to Tunga Mata temple which is located above it. This trail comprises a steep climb on the mountain ridge situated behind the lake and on the way back, you can visit some idiosyncratic places near the lake such as Shikhari Devi temple, Chindi, Pandoh, Kamru Nag Lake & Temple and Barot.

In a nutshell, Parashar Lake is a good option if you have time for only 2-3 days and want a religious as well as an adventurous trip. The journey is quite refreshing and the locals very amiable. So get ready to explore this destination!

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Adventure Central India Corporate Outings Travel Trends wildlife

UNESCO sites that you should visit in North India

In 2014, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognised 32 places as World Heritage Sites in India. These are the places that are great importance of cultural or natural heritage as described in the UNESCO World Heritage Convention. Of these 32 sites, 25 are cultural sites and the other seven are natural sites.

Here is the list of UNESCO sites which can you should visit in North India

Qutab Minar & its monuments, New Delhi

One of the most popular & visited heritage site in India. It was build in 1311 by the muslim ruler . The Qutab complex includes Qutab Minar, Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, Qubbat-ul-Islam Mosque, Tomb of Iltumish, and Iron Pillar. Its foundation was laid by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, but completed by other rulers.The Qutab Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world, inspired by the Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan, The Qutab Minar is 72.5 metres (239 ft) high, has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony carried on muqarnas corbel and tapers from a diameter 14.3 metres at the base to 2.7 metres at the top, which is 379 steps away.

Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

This observatory was built by Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh in 1734 CE.  It has a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments. Apart from this it boasts of having the world’s largest stone sundial. The instruments helped in observing astronomical positions with the naked eye.Not only this, it is one of the best preserved observatories but also a great example of the scientific & cultural heritage of India, shared over the centuries.

Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh

This is one of the hotspot for Buddhist tourist in India. Monuments at Sanchi are the oldest stone structure in India and was originally commissioned by Ashoka, the Great. Sanchi Stupa is the most important of all the monuments here. Stupas are large hemispherical domes, which has a central chamber, in which the relics of the Buddha were placed. The Sanchi Stupa is one of the best preserved early stupas in central India. This stupa is surrounded by a railing with four carved gateways facing all the four directions. This Buddhist vihara is located Sanchi Town in Raisen, 46 km north-east of Bhopal.

Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam

This  famous sanctuary is located in Assam and known for its one horned rhinoceroses. Apart from Rhinos, the park is a home for  many endangered species Tigers, Elephants,wild water buffalos, swamp deer & birds.

The project was started by Lord Curzon in 1905. The park is located in Nagaon district. Nearest airport is Guwahati, which is 271km away from the park.

Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh

The park was established in 1984 & is located in Kullu region. It is part of the Himalaya biodiversity hotspot and is home to  25 different forest types along with a rich collection of fauna species, several of which are threatened. One can spot very rare species of plants and animals such as blue sheep, snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan Tahr, musk deer spruces, horse chesnuts and huge alpine meadows. The park is spread over an area of 1,171 km2 at an altitude of between 1500 to 6000 m. One can do trek and camp inside the park by taking prior permissions.

Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi

This was the first garden tomb of India & was built by Begum Bega in the memory of his husband Humayun. This monument is considered as the precursor monument to the Taj Mahal, which was built a century later. Apart from the tomb of Humayun, it houses about 150 tombs of various members of the royal family.

The Red Fort Complex, New Delhi

Red Fort Complex, also known as Lal Qila is a palace fort built in the 17th century by Shahjahan, when he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. It is one of the ceremonial & political centre of Mughal government It got its name Red fort because of the red sandstone used to make the enclosing walls.The fort complex was planned according to iSlamic prototypes & reflect Persian traditions. Today , every year on15th Aug, the PM of India hoists the national flag and delivers the national speech. Light & sound show about the Fort history ,is also a major attraction

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, Uttarakhand

It was established in 1982 , near the peak of Nanda Devi, in West Himalayas. The gentle landscape of the Valley of Flowers National Park complements the rugged mountain wilderness of Nanda Devi National Park &  Together, they form a unique zone between the mountain ranges of the Zanskar and Great Himalaya.Like GHNP, this park also give shelters to many rare and endangered animals, including the Asiatic black bear,snow leopard,musk deer,brown bear, red fox,blue sheep etc.

This summer vacation, get your kids on an educational tour to UNESCO sites, and let them cherish the rich heritage they belong to.

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