Category: Himalayas

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Asia Himalayas

Haa Valley – the beautifully quaint valley in Bhutan

With its boundaries traversing the majestic districts of Samtse, Paro, and Chhukha, Haa Valley is regarded as one of the most exotic destinations in Bhutan. This picturesque art of peace blessed by the grace of the Gods is spread over an area of 1706 sq. km. The place earned reputation for its animist tradition during pre-Buddhist era. People from Haa Valley indulged in animal sacrifices to please their local Gods and Goddesses in that era.

However, these rampant animist beliefs in Haa Valley were soon abolished by the efforts of Guru Padmasambhaava in the 8th Century. Peaceful traditions of Buddhist value had taken over the animist beliefs. Some of this often plays a peek-a-boo in the valley’s festivals and rituals. Animist traditions have not disappeared from the scene completely.

How to reach there

To reach Haa Valley, one should reach Thimpu first which is connected to most parts of Bhutan. From Paro airport, you can board Thimphu-bound taxis which can cost up to Nu 800. Once you reach Thimpu, drive to Haa Valley via Dawakha. The distance is approx 120 kms approx and it’s a 3.5 hours drive via Dawakha.

Tourism

It might surprise you to know that such a beautiful side of the country was first opened for foreign tourists in the year 2002. Two of the most popular sites to visit in Haa Valley are 7th century Lhakhang Karpo also known as White temple and Lhakhang Nagpo also known as Black temples. These temples of immense religious value are situated at the foothills of a venerated three brotherly mountains also called Meri Puensum.

One of the most celebrated festivals of Buddhist significance Haa Tshechu is also observed in the valley at Lhakhang Karpo in the 8th month of Bhutanese month. It is performed on 8th and 10th day of the month.

Places to Visit

One of the best places to visit in Haa Valley is Haa Wangchuklo Dzong. It was built in the year 1915 after Dumchog Dzong was razed by a wild fire. Other major attractions of the valley are Juneydrag of 8th Century, Katsho Goempa, Drana Trashidingkhag, Yangto Goempa, Jamtoe Goempa, Shelkardrag, Takchu Goempa and Haa Goempa.

Culture

The valley boasts an unparalleled cultural significance and diversity not just in Bhutan but everywhere in the country. The traces of its majestic soul can be felt in the air when you are in Bhutan. It is also regarded as a hub of folk culture diversity, legends, and shamanistic rituals.

One of the most common traditions practiced by all the communities in Haa Valley is shamanistic tradition. The communities of the valley celebrate a festival dedicated to honoring Ap Chundu, the deity of the Valley.

Natural Beauty

Apart from a host of festivals and cultural extravaganza, Haa Valley is an ideal destination for nature lovers. It is a paradise of natural beauty with unparalleled scenic views. You can just walk along the beautiful stretches decorated with an azure sky above. Being in Haa Valley is a rewarding experience for you and your family.

While on your way to Haa Valley, you will pass through Chele-la pass from where you can have one of the best views of Mount, Chomolhari, and Jichu Drakey.

Interesting Facts

One of the specialties of this region is a dried variety of Yak Cheese called the “Habi Ruto”. Some of the domestic animals raised by most of the people of this region are Yak, cattle, chicken, pigs and horses.

For those who may not know, the people of Haa valley are commonly known as “Haap”. The people of this place are known for their smiling faces and warm personalities which makes this part of Bhutan a much loved land.

Things to Do in Haa Valley, Bhutan

Go for Hiking

Do explore the hiking option at Haa Valley. There are many Goembas, that is Buddhist temples surrounding the valley where you can go for an amazing one day hike. One can visit Katsho Goemba and Jana Dingkha for some of the best hiking trails.

Visit the Chele La Pass

Chele La Pass located mid way from Haa valley to Paro is in all ways, a place worth visiting. As you ascend up from Haa to Chele La Pass, be prepared as the weather will change drastically. One will experience stronger winds and clouds will give way to rains.

Take a walk along the Haa Chu river side

You must head to the picturesque Haa Chu river flowing right through the center of the valley. You will love the fascinating walk by the river side, listening to the sound of water striking against stones.

Food

While in Haa Valley, you explore the Lechuna Heritage Lodge that is located in the smallest district of Bhutan in the Haa Valley. It has a restaurant that serves traditional Bhutanese, Indian and Continental cuisine. It also offers Bar Services and has a bar that serves wine, beer, soft drinks and fresh clean drinking water.

Explore the unspolit Haa Valley once in a lifetime and don’t miss the beautiful walking and hiking trails there.

 

 

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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.

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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 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

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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 Ghoomophiro Blog Himalayas National Parks Relax Travel Trends Treks wildlife

Tranquility in the lap of Nature- Great Himalayan National Park

If you are looking for a surreal getaway from Delhi at a distance of overnight travel, then Himalayan National Park is a must for you. Bus from Kullu to Aute can take you inside, from where locals can guide you to the way toGoshani or Nagini, small villages in Kullu. It is from these villages, one can get into the park with the help of porters either by hiking or car can leave you at the entrance gate. Inside the park there are various hiking trails. Neuli- Sarangarh loop, Neuli- Sainj valley, Sainj- Tirthan valley, Gushaini-Tinder village, Gushaini- Shilt Hut, Neuli-Manu temple, Siund- Pashi villages, Jiwa Nala- Parvati River valley, Gushaini- Tirthan valley and Shamshi- Kaza are some of the popular ones. We took Gushaini to Tirthan. The place is bounded by lush green forests, waterfalls, and indeed make it one of the scenic places. Thankfully, modernization has not yet reached this part of the Kullu and hence place continues to brim its beauty. Park is part of world UNESCO Site. It is the home for several endangered flora & fauna and is bird watcher’s paradise.Let this photo essay drive inspire you for your next trip to Great Himalayan National Park.

Beautiful Tirthan valley & river, which is famous for trout fishing

Several locals, shepherds can be seen inside the park with their cattle.

Entry Gate to the park. There is a small entry fee, which is been taken by the forest department. Do carry your photo ID, while you enter the park.

This is what you can expect inside this beautiful jungle. The lovely camaraderie of waterfalls, trees, and birds perching. Perfect place to find your solitude and unwind yourself.

Camping in the midst of Jungle, in itself gives you goosebumps, as you set your camp beside the flowing river, and want to get lost in the wilderness.

The place is totally unchartered and your solidarity can surely resonate with the mesmerizing and unprecedented beauty of the jungles and you would not mind coming here, whenever you are looking an escape from maddening cities.

Best time to go here is summers, though the park is opened throughout the year, but summers attract a lot of trekkers to the park.

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Adventure Himalayas Itinerary Relax Spiritual Hubs Travel Trends

Must Do’s at Tawang

Located in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is one of the most picturesque places in north-east. What makes is more beautiful is the variety of scenic landscapes you get to witness during your journey. Color, landscape changes with every curve.  From Bright yellow mustard fields merging with orchids that suddenly morph into dense forests and then to snow clad mountains. “Journeys are more important than destination”- this holds true for road trip to Tawang. Surrounded by Tibet to its north, Sela range of West Kameng to the east and Bhutan in the southwest direction in itself makes it a surreal place. Though you will be rewarded by stunning waterfalls, mesmerizing valleys, here is my quick Must-visits, while you in Tawang.

Sela Pass

Situated at the height of 13,714 ft above mean sea level, Sela pass connects Tawang to Tezpur and Guwahati and one of the highest motorable pass in the world. On the way to Sela pass is Paradise Lake. While summers at Sela Pass are not very cold, but temperature goes to as low as -10 degree in winters. The place is rightly called as “heaven on earth” due to its breathtaking views.

Tawang Monastery

As the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tawang boasts of being the holy site for Tibetan Buddhists and a prominent center for Gelug or Gelugpa, the pre-eminent Buddhist school in Tibet. This monastery is the 2nd largest in Asia & largest in Asia, and one of the oldest monasteries as well. It is also known as Golden Namgyal Lhatse . The story behind the monastery is interesting. It is believed that Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso, could not find a suitable place for monastery, so he decided to pray for guidance. When he opened his eyes, he found his horse was on the top of hill, where present day monastery is there. It is the main venue of Torgva festival. Several manuscripts, religious books can be found in the place.

Gorichen Peak

Located at a distance of 160 Kms of Tawang, this peak has religious sentiments attached to it. It is also known as Sa-Nga Phu, which literally means the Kingdom of Deity, and is assumed that it protects the place from evils. Place is hikers’ paradise. The entire trek journey is amazing and adventurous. Once you are at the peak, the entire journey seems worth because of the splendid views.

Shonga-tser Lake

Alternatively known as Madhuri Lake, is located at a distance of 40Kms from Tawang. It is the best example of how nature changes the landscapes. It is the resultant of a massive earthquake, which was otherwise grassland for local cattle. Lake is highly photogenic and boasts of being photographer’s delight. Stroll around the lake is indeed soulful and enticing.

Nuranang Waterfalls

Located 40 Kms away from Tawang, this is another spectacular waterfall, which you will not like to miss. Known as Jang falls, due to its proximity to Jang, small township between Tawang & Bomdila..There is a Hydel power station nearby, which can be visited. River Rafting can be done in summers. For SRK fans, this is the place where Koyala was shot.

Pankang Teng Tso Lake

Surrounded by the Himalayas, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, also called as Ptso Lake is situated 17 km from Tawang. It’s all about the nature that speaks at the lake. It is frozen almost half of the year and is good ground for skiing. Calm water, moving clouds, grazing animals, all look like scenery which can be painted only in mind. Place is highly recommended for all nature shooters.

Jaswant Garh

Built in the memory of Paramvir Chakra recipient Jaswant Singh, it is a must visit place. It is believed, he still protects the Indo-China border. Apparently, he fought for 72 hrs alone during Indo-China war in 1962 and is duly respected within Indian and Chinese army fraternity.

Tawang is one place, which will always refresh you from the city buzz and offers the nature at its best. This summer, don’t wait!! Just pack your bags and go to Tawang.

 

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Adventure Himalayas Rejuvenate Relax

Another of those cool hill retreats left behind by the British; Dalhousie

About the Place:Dalhousie is a gateway to the ancient Chamba Hill State, now Chamba District of the state of Himachal Pradesh of India. This hill region is a repository of ancient Hindu culture, art, temples, and handicrafts preserved under the longest-running single dynasty since the mid-6th century.

Spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar mountains are also visible form this enchanting town. Dalhousie was popular with the British Army personnel in 1860’s. By road Dalhousie is about 550 km from Delhi, 52 km from Chamba via Banikhet and 43 km via Khajjiar and the nearest railheads at Pathankot & Chakki bank railway station are approximate 85 km.

Must see places:Kalatop, Khajjiar, Jandari Ghat, Bholani Mata, Sach Pass

Good Time to Travel:Summer months from March to June are the best time to Visit Dalhousie

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Adventure Himalayas Rejoice Relax Spiritual Hubs Travel Trends

5 Safest places to travel solo for women in North India

#travelsolo, is the upcoming buzzword in female fraternity. Unless one takes the plunge, issues like security etc are on their mind. But let’s face the fact that not all places are same, and one should not miss the incredible India because of our assumed apprehensions.
1. Nainital, Uttarakhand:
Nanital is a lake district of Uttrakhand. Its beauty lies in the warm people who made you feel comfortable with their smiles. It has several mythological stories attached to itself. Niani lake is the prime attraction, whereas you would not like to miss on Bhimtal, Khurpatal and Sattal. Place is well connected via motorable roads with important destinations across India. It is just 9 Hrs drive from Delhi.
Quick To-Do’s
• Trek to China Peak
• Shop at Tibetan Market
• Take a Boat Ride at Naini Lake
• Go for Horse Riding
• Take a Cable Car Ride to Snow View
• Eat Sonam’s Momos
• Sip on the Coffee by Lake Side with a book
• Visit Balram Heritage Hotel
2. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh:

Khajuraho, the UNESCO world heritage site always reminds us of erotic temples, is indeed beautiful and great place for solo female traveler. Winter is a good season to explore the place. It is well-connected to roads and Khajuraho airport. Lakshmana Temple, Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Old Village, Lakshmi Temple, Matangeshwar Mahadev Temple, Parshwanath Temple, Lord Mahavira Temple and Adinath Temple are major attractions of the place.
Quick To Do’s
• Shopping at Shilpgram and Mrigyananni
• Visit to temples to witness exemplary carvings
• Coffee at Raja’s Café
• Sound & Light Show at Western Group of Temples
• Yoga Sessions at Yoga Meditation Centre
• Visit to Archaeological Mueseum
• Visit to Panna National Park
3. Udaipur, Rajasthan:
Udaipur is highly hospitable city and is a place known for its maginificence and elegance. Place is surrounded by beautiful lakes. People within the city make it easy for you to travel solo. September to March is the best season to be here. It is around 700 Kms away from Delhi and can be drove easily overnight, if you enjoy roadtrips.
Quick to Do’s:
• Shop in Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Rajasthali, Sadhana Emporium
• Go for Sunset Point
• Visit to Udaipur lake Palace
• Visit Udaipur Solar Observatory
• Other Major attractions around the place includes City Palace, Lake Pichola, Ahar Museum, Sajjan Garh/ Monsoon Palace, Bagore ki Haveli, Sunset Point & Machla Magra, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyo ki Bari and Jag Mandir

4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Varanasi in itself is an experience. It is an amalgam of culture, colors and spirituality. Though the general notion about the place is, it is unsafe due to crowd, but if you make sure what to say and what not, you can surely make your way out and come with mesmerizing experience for lifetime. It is one of the holiest cities for Hindus and you can easily fly to the place.
Quick to Do:
• Take a walking tour
• Evening Aarti at Ghats
• Visit to Vishwanath Temple, Durga Temple, Bharat Mata temple
• Apple Pie at Pizzeria Vatika café
• Silk Shopping at Baba Blacksheep
• Meal at Brown Bread Bakery
• Boat Trip at Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat during dawn.

5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand:
Rishikesh is termed as the yoga capital of India. If you are looking for peace and tranquility and some adventure at the same time, this is the place to be. Place is overnight drive from Delhi.

Quick to Do’s :
• White Water Rafting
• Fox-flying
• Bungee Jumping
• Cliff Jumping
• Eat at Little Buddha Café
• Have Coffee at Devraj Coffee Corner
• Practice Yoga
• Camping by the River and watch the moon
• Other Attaractions include Swarg Niwas Temple, Shri Trayanbakshwar Temple, Swarg Ashram, Lakshman Jhula, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Asharam, Neelkantha Mahadev Temple.
Note: Though all the above places have been visited by author herself, but would request you to dress appropriately to avoid unnecessary attention and just be polite to the locals to have lifetime memories.
Hola!! Where are you vacationing next?

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Himalayas North India Rejoice Travel Trends

5 To Do’s at Pangong Lake

Remember the last scene from 3 Idiots movie, when Kareena approaches Aamir in bridal dress and confesses her love to him. That epic shot is from Pangong Lake. The famous lake is 160 km from Leh, and is 14,256 feet above sea level. Nearest airport to reach to the place is Leh airport, from where either you can drive or bike ride to this beautiful lake which makes you speechless and gives you timeless experience. The ride to the lake in itself is scenic as one gets to pass through famous Changla Pass and other small villages. The countryside makes you feel nostalgic and reminds you of childhood paintings. Apparently, it is just the 40% of the lake that lies in India and rest lies in China. The crystal clear blue lake sprawls over an area of 100 kilometers across the borders of two countries in India and China. This is the reason; you may also see the patrolling by the defense personals. It is opened for tourists from May to September, as it is frozen during winters and routes to the lakes are usually closed. During the trip to Leh-Ladakh, one should keep at least 1 night/2 days for the place. Penning down few must to-do’s that one should plan while at Pangong.
Bird Watching at lake
Pangong is bird watcher’s paradise. Though due to salty water, you may not spot much aquatic flora and fauna, but surely you may find migratory birds as the lake is breeding ground for many. Bar-headed goose and Brahmini ducks are the most common, though.

Stroll at the lake
The serenity and tranquility at the lake will let you spend time with yourself. Evening and mornings are the best times when you can go for a quick stroll around the lake or maybe sitting on the banks to soak yourself in the sun. The clear and crystal water will try to lure you, but you are not allowed to take a dip in the lake, so resist yourself and enjoy just being at the bank.

One night stay with Locals in Home Stays
There are several homestays near the lake. You can pick and choose any of them and enjoy their lifestyle by spending one night with them. Panoramic view from them is usually beautiful, as most of them are near the banks. Cooking rice, chopping vegetables, talking to them in sign language, enjoying with their pets and trying to accommodate with locals is super fun. These homestays are budgeted accommodations and are almost close to Ladakh traditions. Usual price range from 3000 to 3500 inclusive of all meals. It gets really cold in the night, but fortunately good homestays like the camp watermark and eco huts provide you with warm water and other amenities to make the life easy.

Capturing Pangong with your lens
You can never get over capturing Pangong’s beauty with your lens. The place is beautiful especially when the sun shines at its peak. One can identify the three different shades of blue in the water. The landscape is beautiful. The place is indeed picturesque.

Eating Momos at 3-Idiots Point
Momos and Chowmein are famous at these small joints that have come up post 3 Idiots movie. Their Momos are different from what usually eat. You may find spinach momos, which are exceptionally good, and it is advised to have your food at these places, as once it gets dark and you enter homestays, you are left with very less options to eat.

Pangong Lake is the must visit place, on your trip to Leh-Ladakh.

Are you ready to book your tickets to the land of gods this vacation?

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