Tag: Nepal

Categories
Spiritual Hubs Travel Trends

Shakti Peethas Outside India

Shakhtipeeths

There’s this thing that makes India different from the rest of the world and that is the culture and the religious beliefs that we have. There are many religious beliefs and almost 330 million Gods and Goddesses that make India the country it is. Every God and Goddess have their own shrine and stories behind the formation of the shrines.

Although there is one story of the Goddess Sati that left a huge mark in the history of Hinduism. The marks that Goddess Sati left are now known as the Shakti Peethas and there are many of them in India and outside India as well. So today we will talk about the Shakti Peethas outside India.

What is Shakti Peethas?

Now before we can head on to the list of Shakti Peethas outside India, let’s know a little about them. Shaktipeeths or Shakti Peethas are the shrines of Goddess Sati where it’s believed that body parts of Goddess Sati corpse fell.

The story behind the Shakti Peethas

The son of Lord Brahma, Prajapati Daksha had a daughter named Sati when Sati was born she was raised with the stories of Lord Shiva, and when Sati got in the age of marriage she decided to marry Lord Shiva. Prajapati Daksha didn’t like that decision and was hurt when Sati married Lord Shiva. So later to insult Lord Shiva Prajapati Daksha held a massive Yagna where he invited everyone but not Lord Shiva.

After hearing about that Sati went to her father’s place and there everyone including his father insulted Lord Shiva. Hearing all the hurtful words Sati couldn’t bear and ended up giving her life there only when Lord Shiva came to know about Sati’s death he got furious and started doing ‘Tandav’ while holding Sati’s dead body. Later to calm Lord Shiva down, Lord Vishnu chopped Sati’s dead body into 51 pieces which later fell in different places which we now call as the Shakti Peethas.

Shaktipeeths outside India

Shikarpur

  • Location: Bangladesh
  • Body part: Nose
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Sugandha

The divine temple of Goddess Sati where she resides and is worshipped by the people in the form of Shakti Sugandha is located at the Banks of Sonda River near the Barisal town. The locals here also call the Goddess Sugandha as Devi Tara.

Sri Shail

  • Location: Bangladesh
  • Body part: Neck
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Maha Lakshmi

The holy shrine of Goddess Sati where she resides and worshipped in the form of Shakti Maha Lakshmi is situated in the Jaunpur village in Bangladesh. Goddess Maha Lakshmi is very well known for bringing the money or wealth with her and worshipped by every businessman and in every house.

Shivaharkaray

  • Location: Karachi Pakistan
  • Body part: Eyes
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Mahishmardini

Just near the Parkai railways station in Karachi, you will find the hokey temple of Goddess Sati where she resides and is worshipped in the form of Shakti Mahishmardini.

Chandranath

  • Location: Bangladesh
  • Body part: Right-arm
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Bhawani

When you go to the top of the Chandranath hills in Bangladesh there you will find the holy temple of Goddess Sati where she resides and is worshipped in the form of Shakti or Maa Bhawani.

Guhyeshwari

  • Location: Nepal
  • Body part: Both knees
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Mahashira

This divine temple of Goddess Sati where she resides and worshipped in the form of Shakti Mahashira is located in Kathmandu Nepal near the temple of Pashupati Nath. This temple was made in the 17th Century by a king named Pratap Malla.

Nainativu

  • Location: Sri Lanka
  • Body part: Anklets
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Indrakshi

In Sri Lanka when you go near the capital of Jaffna you will find Nallur where this divine shrine of Goddess Sati where she resides in the form of Shakti Indrakshi is located. This is also believed that in the time of Ramayana Sri Ravana and Lord Rama used to worship Shakti Indrakshi.

Mansa

  • Location: Tibet, China, and Mansarovar. This is because the temple is just at the foot of Kailash Mountain that connects it with all this.
  • Body part: Right Hand
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Dakshayani

The divine temple of Goddess Sati where she resides in the form of Shakti Dakshayani is situated at the foot of Kailash where her Right hand is believed to have fallen. This divine shrine is famous for its stone slab form and many people visit here.

Yogeshwari

  • Location: Bangladesh
  • Body part: Palms of her hand and soles of her feet
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Yogeshwari also called as Goddess Jashoreshwari

The divine temple of Goddess Sati is situated in Iswaripur village in the district of Khulna. It is said that Goddess Shakti resides here as Goddess Jashoreshwari.

Jayanti

  • Location: Bangladesh
  • Body part: Left thigh
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Jayanti

The divine temple of Goddess Shakti Jayanti is situated at Kalajore in Bangladesh. The locals also call it the Nartiang Durga Temple where the Goddess Sati resides in the form of Shakti Jayanti.

10. Hinglaj

  • Location: Pakistan
  • Body part: Top part of her head
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Kottari

This divine temple is not easy to visit if you are Indian because there will be lots of trouble when you go to this temple which is situated in Balochistan a few Kms away from Karachi. It is believed that the top part of Goddess Sati’s head fell here and from that time Goddess Sati resides there in the form of Shakti Kottari.

11. Gandaki

  • Location: Nepal
  • Body part: Forehead
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Gandaki Chandi

In the beautiful country of Nepal near the banks of Gandaki river lies this divine shrine of Goddess Sati who resides here in the form of Goddess Shakti Gandaki Chandi. You can also find here the Ancient text encrypted by Lord Vishnu himself in this holy land.

12. Bhavanipur

  • Location: Bangladesh
  • Body part: Left ankle ornament
  • Opens on: Almost every day
  • Resides as: Shakti Aparna

The divine temple of Goddess Shakti Aparna is situated in Sherpur village, it is said that in this holy place Goddess Sati’s left ankle ornament was fallen. You can not visit this place so easily as it comes to Bangladesh now and you will need to get permission to enter there.

Jai Mata Di!!

Categories
Culture Historical

#ghoomophirosisters visit to Lumbini

A trip to Nepal is incomplete without submerging oneself in the culture and beauty of the place called Lumbini. Known mainly for its deep connections with the story of Lord Buddha, the place is close to the bordering nation of India and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Buddha was born here, in-between the homes of his parents, in a sacred garden, while her mother was travelling.

Maya Devi

The mother of Lord Buddha, Maya Devi is greatly celebrated in the region of Lumbini. Her importance is manifold in the Buddhist literature and it speaks of the birth of Lord Buddha. It is believed that she dreamt of a white elephant and foresaw that she would give birth to ‘the great one’. Another important event she is associated with is the birth of Lord Buddha during travels when she was heading to her parents’ home in Devdaha from the place of her husband who was king Sudhodhan from the Sakya Clan. Many efforts were made for the preparation of the delivery.

Legend of Buddha’s Birth

The scene depicting Buddha’s birth can be observed in many Buddhist sites. The dream scene of Maya Devi and Buddha’s birth are two important visual incidents. In the scene of Buddha’s Birth, Maya Devi is seen accompanied by Lord Buddha’s foster mother- Prajapati Gautami.

The scene is shown as Maya Devi is at a pond in Lumbini, holding the branch of a tree above her as she gave birth in a standing position. It is believed that as soon as Buddha took birth, he walked seven steps and lotuses bloomed with each footstep, wherever his feet touched the ground. Along with that, people are of the faith that when he was born, Gods of three worlds: Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh came to receive the child. This is considered to be the beginning of the many miracles of Buddha’s life.

Maya Devi Temple – Lumbini

Maya Devi Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple and also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is also known by the name of Maha Maya and the place where it is situated in Lumbini referred to as Pradimoksha Vana. While the temple laid deteriorating in the last few centuries, in recent years archaeologists have started excavation of the place and conserving all the findings.

There are also other important places to see as well such as Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar, Rajgriha and Vaishali

Things to see in & around Maya Devi Temple at Lumbini

Known mainly as the place where Buddha was born, there are many monuments to see inside the Maya Devi Temple.

Maya Devi Temple enclosure

As we entered the Maya Devi temple, walking on the wooden walkway around ancient ruins, looking at the large bricks arrangements, we were awe-struck and yet bedazzled by what we say. We could not quite make out what the place was supposed to be like. It was unlike any hall, monastery or temple. We could not tell if the place had been found like that or reconstructed over years. The temple enclosure with its white walls and a Buddhist Stupa on top that has the ruins of the ancient Maya Devi temple in it gave us a sight to behold.

Most of these structural ruins belong to the Gupta period i.e. 5-6th CE.

Nativity Sculpture and Marker Stone

At the end of the hall, there is a stone sculpture which has been rubbed down to such extent that nothing is clearly visible. It is believed that the statue is rubbed flat by the touch of so many devotees. Yet, this nativity sculpture dominates the aura of the place.

The Marker stone is situated beneath the nativity sculpture. A few feet below on the ground level, there is this irregularly shaped stone that has the marks of a human foot on it. It is believed to be the footprint of Lord Buddha but that is entirely a matter of faith. The stone is enclosed in bulletproof glass and is allowed to be looked upon. It is surrounded by currency notes of all kinds.

The marker stone has a long queue standing for just one look. One has to wait a long while to finally glance upon it and that too for barely a couple minutes.

Ashoka Pillar at Lumbini

Ashoka Pillar is a sight to behold. Standing tall at the back of the Maya Devi Temple, it is said to have been erected by Ashoka himself when he visited Lumbini. The inscription on the stone says – ‘Hida Budhe Jate Shakyamuniti‘ which means that Shakyamuni Buddha was born here. It is also mentioned that because Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha, their taxes were reduced.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pushkarni or the Sacred Pond

There is a beautiful and serene pond on the side of the Maya Devi temple. This is considered to be a sacred pond, the one in which Maya Devi took bath after giving birth to Lord Buddha. That gives a level of importance and holiness to the pond for the devotees. The pond that exists there on the date, is a recent reconstruction.

Near the pond, there exists a large Bodhi tree along with a shrine dedicated to Lord Buddha. There are plenty of other trees as well with round wooden benches surrounding them. People sat on these benches to relax or meditate. Walking near the pond, one sees the incredible sight of various colourful prayer flags tied to trees.

Standing beneath the barrage of colours, one sees a marvellous view of the pond and the Maya Devi temple. It creates a serene and joyful atmosphere all around.

Votive Stupas

There are many stupas, some Votive (built by the devotees after their wishes come true), some ancient (dating back to 1-3rd CE), some from different eras, surrounding the Maya Devi temple. The stupas vary in size and in their construction.

Some of the stupas have also deteriorated and close to ruination, though not as badly as the temple itself. It is not quite true that they would have been kept preserved. Probably, they haven’t been touched by people too much and thus still are better preserved. The votive stupas stand like pieces on a chessboard, an interesting sight to behold. It was a total set of 16 stupas, some circular and some square in shape.

Worship at Maya Devi Temple

On one of the evenings that we were there, we saw the Temple come alive with people from different places visiting. There were Buddhist monks from different countries performing their rituals.

Among them, was a group of Sri Lankan Monks who sat silently as the head monk went on to narrate the life and teachings of Lord Buddha for everyone. There was also a Chinese group that wore black robes and worshipped the images of young Lord Buddha. They also lighted lamps around Pushkarni, making the place light up like the eve of Diwali. Another group began praying and chanting hymns.

While the square stupas were being decorated with marigold flowers, another group decorated the Ashoka Pillar using a bright silk cloth. The Monks kept coming in and chanting along with other devotes. It was at that time that we felt the temple came truly alive with all the spiritual energy and peace. There was such devotion and energy in the atmosphere that it often felt overwhelming as we quietly observed it. It was at that moment; seeing the look of devotion on people’s faces that we felt that our trip to Lumbini was complete.

You need to walk a lot to see these temples

Though the temple and the places all around are open to visitors and travellers, they are not entirely tourist friendly as they are meant mainly for monks, Buddhist followers and people who live there. As an outsider, the most one can enjoy is the view and the architecture of the place, vaguely knowing the story of Buddha or the importance behind a particular structure. One can just admire the décor, statues as it represents the country and the religion.

But there won’t be much information about the temple itself or the religion that one can come across easily.

The best method to make the most of your trip would be to pick the particular temples you want to see and then focus upon those. If you try to see everything, you will end up disoriented after a while. Unless one has deep knowledge about the religion, there is not much that one would be able to appreciate about the temples apart from the structure and architectural design.

The Nepalese temple has a huge Buddha statue which is beautiful to look at and the German temple has murals. The Chinese temple is of beautiful red and yellow colour.

Lumbini Development Trust Museum

Lumbini Museum is not really a popular spot among people and with good reason. Standing at the end of one canal, it is a nicely shaped building of a bright red color. Though at first glance, it may look like a Buddhist Vihar, one would find no similarity upon entering. The tickets are bought from another building and you would have to cross a pond for that.

The Museum building may be beautiful but the reason why it sees such lack of crowd is that there are no real artifacts that it houses. There are plenty of replicas from other Buddhist sites like ones in Andhra Pradesh but he replicas lack the wonder and awe of the real stones. There are also some pictures of various popular Buddhist sites but none are too impressive.

The place is good enough to pass some time but not something particularly intriguing.

Walk around Lumbini Park

Lumbini Park is meant for people like us who love walking around. You can visit the park during the mornings or evening and see lots of other walkers enjoying the place as well. There are some water bodies nearby which attract birds and butterflies and one may even spot a Saras Crane during the winter season when the Migratory birds visit Lumbini’s wetlands.

There are some sections where one might need to take precautions since some of the roads are still under construction. Take proper care.

We had conversations with some monks and Bhikkunis. There were many young monks wearing their robes and looking half innocent half mischievous. We had some good time sitting and talking to the locals there, along with getting some good clicks as well.

Travel Tips for Lumbini – Nepal

  • You will have to walk through parks and large patches of jungles. So, it is highly suggestible to wear shoes that are comfortable.
  • Don’t expect restaurants or food to be available once you are inside Lumbini Park. There may be small ice cream and bhel vendors but it is preferable to eat before you’re visiting. There are still water shops available on the eastern side but none on the western side of the park.
  • Carry enough water bottles with you, no matter where you are visiting. Stay hydrated.
  • There is no availability of transportation facility inside the park. So, either hire a rickshaw in advance and use that or just roam around while walking on foot.
  • Though there is an option for a boat ride to go from one end of the park to another, you will not get to see all the temples on the way.
  • Be thoughtful of how you dress since it is a religious place.
  • The only places where you will need a ticket are Maya Devi temple as well as Lumbini Museum and that too, a small amount of INR 20/- each for Indians (including camera ticket). The rest of the places are free.
  • Temples and museums are open from 9 – 5 with a break from 1-2.
  • Maya Devi temple needs at least two hours of undivided attention. If you can spare only half a day, spend time at this temple.
  • Though the park remains open, it is not advisable to walk after dark.
Categories
Adventure Himalayas

A Complete Guide to Everest Base Camp Trek

Thousands of people travel to Nepal every year for trekking to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest. Nepal is a worldwide famous spot for such adventure sports and hiking expeditions and as such, quite popular among adventure junkies. We are going to delve into this detailed guide for Everest base camp trek options, which is based on our latest adventure to the place.

The Everest Base Camp is known to be the most popular trekking destination, located amidst the peak of the highest mountain in the world. People come from all over the world to trek over here, every year and the usual trekker count reaches 40000.

After the successful expedition of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary in 1953, the route became everyone’s dream. 

Guide to Everest Base Camp Trek

There are many sights of various peaks on the journey that you will encounter and these sites will mesmerize you. Apart from the main attraction – Mt. Everest (8848m), you will also see Mt Nuptse(7855m), Lobuche peak(6145m), Pokalde peak (5806m), Mt Lhotse (8516m), Mt. Lingterin (6679m), Mt. Amadablam (6856m), Mt. Pumori (7161m), Mt. Changaste (7550m), Mt. Kantega( 6685m), Mt.Kusum Khagaru (6367m), Mt. Twache peak (6367m), Mt. Cholaste (6335m), Mt.Kusum Khagaru (6367m), Mt.Kongde (6011m), Mt. Thamserku(6723m), Mt. Khumbila(5761m) , Honku south peak (6119m) , Island peak(6179m) and many more.

Located in Everest region, which is the second best trekking region in Nepal, this trek is filled with views of flora and fauna. The walk through this region among the beautiful green hills along with thick forests, glacier lakes, elegant rivers and graceful waterfalls is an incredible experience in itself.

This region also includes a UNESCO World Heritage site in its midst that is a home to several rare and endangered species. The Sagarmatha National park is open for viewing and you can come across some of its wildlife treasures on your way.

There is also a unique culture that thrives in this region of Everest. Known as the Sherpa community, most of the people living in this region have a culture and lifestyle resembling Tibetians. The open-mindedness and friendly approach of these people make them special.

All these details are for the sole purpose of informing you because it is better to have a clear idea about a place before visiting. This article will briefly explain all the details you need to know for having a wondrous journey to the Himalayas.

General Itinerary for Everest Base Camp

This includes the most common path undertaken which leads to the Everest Base camp. You can always customize the route but will have to willing to spend more time exploring the place. The usual itinerary is as below:

Day 1: From Kathmandu,  Fly to Lukla (2804 mt.), then Trek to Phakding (2610 mt.)

Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar (3441 mt.)

Day 3: A break in Namche Bazar for Acclimatization

Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazar to Tengboche(3860 mt.)

Day 5: Begin Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410 mt.)

Day 6: A break at Dingboche for Acclimatization

Day 7: Start Trek again from Dingboche to Lobuche (4910 mt.)

Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5153 mt.) to EBC and back to Gorakshep

Day 9: Start hiking to Kala Patthar and then trek to Pheriche (4210 mt.)

Day 12: Start Trekking from Namche Bazar to Lukla

Day 13: Fly back to Kathmandu

If you don’t wish to fly to Lukla, you can take an alternative route to go to Everest Base camp via Jiri.

Train your body for the Everest trek

Everest is not a child’s play and while you do not need to have an athlete’s body, it is still required that your body is fit enough to endure the terrain. If you wake up sore every morning, you will not be able to enjoy the long walks. Thus, it is better to train your body with some easy methods:

•    Four to six weeks before the trek, start doing regular exercises.

•    Follow the cardio exercise routine like swimming, cycling etc

•    While doing these exercises, try carrying a backpack.

•    Do push-ups, pull-ups squat to strengthen your muscles.

•    Do not over-exercise. The aim is to increase lung capacity and stamina.

What to pack for EBC Trek

The trek requires several types of equipment and you can choose according to your needs. Below is a list of all needed equipment:

Start from Trekking gears, you must have these:

•    Waterproof heavy-weight gloves.

•    Running shoes or sandals which would work as running shoes around camp.

•    Hiking boots and shoes and carry a spare set of laces

•    Wool or fleece trousers or pants

•    Down vest or jacket

•    Warm and thick woollen socks for hiking

•    Gaiters (optional)

Some other things you will need during the trek are:

•    Shorts

•    Underwear

•    Thermal Tops

•    Plastic bags

•    Sun hat or scarf

•    Waterproof shell jacket

•    T-shirts

•    Socks

•    Cotton trousers

•    Thermal gloves

•    Thermal Bottoms

•    Fleece jacket

•    UV protection sunglasses

•    Sleeping bag

•    A daypack (35-40 litres/2500-3000 cubic inches)

•    Water bottle

•    Toiletries

•    First aid kit

•    Waterproof shell trousers

•    Small wash towel

•    Camping mattress

Some things to should know about the equipment

•    It is not compulsory to buy all items on the list. Use your own judgment according to necessity.

•    The footwear you choose must be comfortable and durable. Make sure that the boots are lightweight trekking boots and the fabric should be good and waterproof. Blisters and shoe bites can often ruin the fun.

•    You can buy a pair of gaiters for your legs.

•    It is better to dress in layers to be able to regulate body temperature according to will. Choose the outfit according to weather conditions.

•    The clothes must be lightweight too and specially designed for trekking.

•    A waterproof shell outerwear is a must.

•    Your body, head and hands should be kept as warm as possible.

Required Permits for Everest Base Camp

While the Everest region is not restricted and does not require any prior permit, if you will be entering the Sagarmatha National park, then you must pay a little amount of permit fees.

Health concerns

There are many risk concerns while trekking to such high altitude. Whether it is a minor or major injury caused by a careless step or a natural calamity, or a case of common cold and viral fever, there are many things that might go wrong.

Some of the most important issues that you must make yourself aware of before trekking to the Everest Base Camp are as follows:

Altitude Sickness

This is one of the most common sicknesses that happen when one ascends to higher altitudes. The symptoms appear within six to twenty-four hours. But it is not something to be taken casually because altitude sickness can be fatal and must be treated in time. One must stay alert for any symptoms.

Symptoms

The symptoms of altitude sickness are mentioned below:

•    Dizziness

•    Tiredness

•    Headaches

•    Nausea and Vomiting

•    Upset stomach

•    Loss of appetite

•    Shortness of breath

•    Difficulty sleeping

•    Feeling unsteady

•    Increased heart rate

An effective measure to recover from early AMS

In case you observe any of the above symptoms, follow the following guidelines immediately:

•    Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

•    Take medicines immediately

•    Stop climbing and do not climb for further 48 hours

•    Make sure you rest until you feel better

•    Try descending to a lower altitude if possible

•    Take external oxygen if necessary

•    Do not smoke

•    Do not exercise.

If despite all these, you do not see your condition improving within the next 48 hours, you will need to be immediately deported for medical support in the city.

Preventive Measures

Though there are no ways to make your body adapt to high altitude before the trek begins, there are some ways to avoid AMS which are:

•    Start ascending slowly and gradually till you reach higher

•    Drink plenty of water on the way to stay hydrated

•    Avoid drinking, smoking or any tranquilizing medicine.

•    Let your body rest properly.

•    Eat high-calorie food as your body needs it.

Sunburn issues

Higher altitudes cause sunburn more easily and therefore, it is essential to carry an abundant amount of effective sunscreen lotion. Something with a strong SPF like SPF 80 is suggested and make sure to apply it daily in adequate amounts.

The sun’s wrath doesn’t end there and you will have to protect your eyes from the sun rays as well. Carry good polarized sunglasses.

Insurance

Insurance is very important while going on such a trek and remember not to start a trek without it. In case you fall prey to Altitude sickness or any natural calamity, you might have to be deported in a helicopter and Insurance covers such costs, but you will have to purchase it beforehand. The easiest way is to reach out to any Travel agent and ask them regarding the purchase of Health insurance. They will guide you through the process or you can research it on your own if you want. But this is one of the important things you must not forget.

Trekking options

There are plenty of options for trekking to Everest Base Camp such as:

•    Porter/Guide Combo

•    Small Group Tour with Guide with Porter

•    Private Guide with no Porter

•    Private Guide with Porter

•    No Guide with Porter

•    No Guide and No Porter

Hiring a guide and a porter

Though it isn’t compulsory for you to travel with a guide, it is recommended. Guides have good knowledge and more experience about trekking. They usually make the trek easier by guiding through navigations, suggesting good places to stay at and eat, and they can also help with negotiating price at various places. In case of emergencies, a guide is quite helpful but before hiring one makes sure to check their license.

A porter is just someone to carry your baggage so you can enjoy your journey more comfortable. In current times, Guide-porters are also available so it just depends on what you want to choose for yourself. Guide-porters help cut down additional expenses as these are experienced porters who are close to becoming a certified guide.

Best season for trekking

If you are trekking to Everest Base Camp, the months of March to May (Spring) and September to December (Autumn) are considered the best. The weather during these months is pleasant and you can make the most out of the trekking experience by enjoying the walks and weather. The rainfall is also limited or there is none at all which removes additional hassle. In the month of May, the flowers will be blooming in the rhododendron forest. The clear skies also help in making sure you get the best view of the Himalayan ranges.

Enjoy your Everest Trek!

The Everest Base Camp Trek is every trekker’s dream. So we hope this Trek guide helped you out in your plans. Just the thought of standing at the highest peak fills us with such excitement. And though the journey sounds so difficult, in reality, it is just not so. There are just so many things to enjoy and savor along the way that one almost forgets the weariness and forgets to pay attention to the tiredness of the body. But if you follow the tips and tricks mentioned in the guide, you will have a complete and a pleasant trip which will be unforgettable. Drop us a note at ghoomophirosisters@gmail.com for any Everest related query.

Categories
Adventure Architectural Asia Spiritual Hubs

48 Hrs in Kathmandu

The nonignorable chaos of wonderfully diverse people, most of them tourists though and the places full of pure natural bliss, Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital city. The city, like every other capital cities in the world, happens to be the center of all cultural, social and political happenings in the country. The added charm comes from the Mother Nature herself who has poured her heart into making this city a beautifully constructed piece of architecture. The mankind has also been quite fond of the city, how else would you explain the amazing temples and monuments located here. The recent earthquake almost ruined the city in its entirety but perhaps, it knows quite well how to take care of itself.

There are many things a tourist can do in here to make the most out of their trips. The religious institutions, the majestic Himalayan range, the national parks etc makes the city a complete package. Let us know more about what exactly one should be doing in the city once they land here.

Boudhanath Stupa- One of the very few UNESCO world heritage sites in the country, Boudhanath Stupa is a charming attraction for the tourists. Most of the tour guides always chose this place to start the journey deep into this beautiful city. The religious center of Nepal’s Tibetan/Budhh community, this stupa is a marvelous piece of architecture and a wonderful kick starts to the trip.

Everest Region- Home to some of the tallest mountain peaks in the world such as Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest, the Himalayan range is one other big tourist magnets in the city. Trek into the Everest was somehow closed due to the recent earthquake that shook the country but it was reopened after some time thanks to the heavy pressure by the tourists.

Annapurna Region- If there is anything else in the world that could be compared to Everest region in terms of magnificence is this. The 10-day trek over here is one of the longest and the most exciting trek in the world. The Annapurna Base Camp happens to be the highest point that gives a cool 360-degree view of the entire region, which makes for a sight to savor.

Durbar Square- Affectionately known as the heart of Kathmandu tourism, the Durbar Square remains crowded for the most part in the year. There are countless numbers of shrines and little temples spread in the square which is a great place for the most religious of tourists. Hanuman Dhoka and Taleju temple are two shining diamonds in the crown that Durbar Square is.

Pashupatinath Temple- King Bhupendra Malla, who reigned the country in the later parts of the 16th century, got this temple built and invited some of the most accomplished architects from all over the world to do the task. And the result is for all of us to see. This serves as a great pilgrim spot for the Hindu devotees who come here in heavy numbers.

There is no dearth of tourism spots in this city. There is the Royal Palace, Narayanhiti place museum among many other places. The only Hindu country in the world is being run by the Kathmandu city and its spirit is unbreakable. The latest example is the earth shattering earthquake. The city got up on its feet in no time and from the bruises of it, it became stronger than ever.

Categories
Asia Rejoice Rejuvenate Relax Travel Tips Travel Trends

Go travel to these Visa free countries

Everybody knows that getting a visa on an Indian passport can be a real pain. We all wish we could go on a vacation just like that, just pick a destination, plan a trip, pack our bags and simply go for it without any hassle. God, why is it not that easy!!

The process, in reality, requires first to look for options then choose a getaway based on the size of the hole it will burn in your pocket. By chance, if the chosen place is abroad then you have to apply for a visa and then the problem of obtaining it starts. Day in and day out you have to go to the visa office for various verification formalities.

So here are some places abroad where Indians can go to without getting a visa, and they will amaze you with their landscapes.

Bhutan

A visit to Bhutan, the land of happiness, from India requires just the payment of a certain amount of money. The perk of an Indian’s passport is that you pay a lesser amount as compared to people of other countries. While in the beautiful country, you get to explore the Switzerland of the East, visit the peaceful Tiger Monastery and relish the spicy local food. If you drive from India to Bhutan, you get an entry for 7 days without a passport and if you fly to the place, you get an entry for 1 month. Both of them are extendable, though.

Ecuador

Ecuador which is considered as the equatorial paradise of South America can be toured by the holder of an Indian passport without getting a visa from beforehand. It is the place to behold and enjoy in the vast Amazon rain forests, the sensational beaches, the Andes Mountains, the isolated Galapagos islands and the world’s highest capital city of Quito. Indians get free visas if they show valid return tickets or the visas of any other place that they plan to visit from Ecuador.

Pic Credits- Wikipedia

Antarctica

Being the last land on the earth, it is a place for people who want to see mighty glaciers, icy white landscapes and plenty of penguins. It may be the only place on the planet where there is minimal human involvement and boasts of untouched natural beauty. You can go to Antarctica via the USA, Argentina, Chile, South Africa and New Zealand. Since it is uninhabited, there is no visa regime for visiting it.

Pic Credits- Wikipedia

El Salvador

With an insane number of volcanoes, El Salvador is amongst the smallest countries in Central America. The tropical paradise has hospitable people along with a diverse culture, natural beauty, beaches, volcanoes, lip- smacking food, nightlife and much more to offer to its visitors. Indian citizens get a free visa for a maximum of 3 months, depending on the show a valid return ticket or a valid visa for the next destination.

Fiji

The honeymooners’ destination Fiji is a coral paradise of South Pacific. Imagine yourself flopping on a beach sipping Pinacoladas and relaxing with your family or going scuba diving in the exquisite coral reefs and enjoying the natural beauty under the sea. Indians can get a free visa for 4 months if they show a valid return ticket and have sufficient funds for their stay.

Pic Credits- Wikipedia

Hong Kong

The amazing skyline, the awesome shopping venues, the delicious Cantonese food and the fact that it is nearest to the gambling hub of Macau make Hong Kong one of the most favourite spots for Indian tourists. They can get a free visa for 14 days after showing a valid return ticket with sufficient funds for the stay and a valid hotel booking.

Macau

It is the place where you can go to try your luck at Blackjack, Poker or SOT machines. It is also the place to witness rich Portuguese history and relish Portuguese food. Indians do get a free visa for up to 30 days on showing valid return tickets with sufficient funds to cover their trip.

Mauritius

Mauritius  is one of Indian Ocean’s top holiday spots. Its water sports and scuba diving spots are amazing. If you are planning for a relaxed beach vacation, this is the perfect spot. Here you will find a mixed culture of Indians, French and Africans. Indians can stay here visa- free for a minimum of 90 days and a maximum of 180 days on the condition of showing a valid return ticket along with sufficient funds for their trip.

Nepal

India shares its border with Nepal which means you can drive, ride or fly into the country. Indians do not even need a passport for the purpose; having a voter’s ID card or a driving license is sufficient. You can go to Nepal to trek or to visit the Buddhist temples or to enjoy the beauty of its capital city Kathmandu. As mentioned above Indians don’t need a visa, they can visit Nepal with a valid voters ID card or driving license. Also, they can stay and work there for 6 months.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go for them..!!

Exit mobile version