My Wishlist

This is my wishlist of the goodies which I want to buy. I have not set any time limit but I want them all with in next 6 months .. so here it goes

1. APO 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG MACRO lens for my NIKON DSLR (Done)
2. KATA 3N1-20 Sling + Backpack convertible Camera Bag
3. Lafuma - Summertime 3/4 Tent
4. Fujifilm FinePix F30 6.3 Or Nikon Coolpix S7c
5. SPEEDLIGHT SB-600 or SPEEDLIGHT SB-400
6.

Next One Will Add very soon....

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Experiments with the Camera

1. Shoot in Low Light of Sunrise and Sunrise: The low-light period around sunset and sunrise is considered one of the best times to take outdoor photos, so get up early in the morning and wait for sunset. However, shooting in low light can also be challenging for beginners. Since longer exposure times are often required in low light situations, a tripod is an essential piece of gear to bring along. Try experiment with camera's ISO and shutter speed. Keep aperture narrow i.e. higher F number to get good depth of field.

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 2. Use Flash creatively: Use your flash outside on a sunny day, it will actually fill the shadow areas cast by a hat or umbrella, for example. Faces will also be brighter. Remember though, the flash has limited range, so you need to be within 10-12 feet to realize the benefit.

3.Add a Subject to the Landscape: By placing someone in your landscape, you can establish both a focal point and a point of reference for the composition of your image. By adding a person to the scene, the brain immediately recognizes the scale and tells you what you're looking at. Adding someone to your landscape can also makes a photo more evocative, as viewers can more easily picture how they would fit into the scene if they were actually there.

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4. Bad Weather is Good: Use extreme weather to create striking images with a lot of drama. Overcast days might give you flat images but you can enliven them by shooting into the light. Rays streaming through a fog or through clouds, dark, forbearing clouds, brilliant streak of light are few examples.

[/caption] 5. Capture motion with slow shutter speeds: Use slow shutter speeds to capture motion, milky way effect while shooting water fall.


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Leh Ladakh - Hemis Festival

A one-time highly flourishing trade centre along the historic Silk Route, Leh has forever been romancing with awe and mystery. With enough fantabulous elements to conjure up an adventurous story by someone like Robert E. Howard, this city spins a web of attractions that you would seldom find anywhere else. Distinct Landscapes contrasting the deep blue skies with patches of lush green, with colourful prayer flags fluttering on rooftops, lofty mountains walling the city (as if) from foreign winds, sprawling valleys cradling opulent meadows of green, mud brick houses that seem to emerge right off the face of the mountains, a silence broken only occasionally by sombre ritualistic chants. Leh is your earthly ground for a cosmic experience. It is here that you will break your shackles from the outside world and become a wanderlust meanderer.

Day 1: Arrive Leh; 3505 meters / 11567 feet.

Arrive Kushok Bakula airport Leh - 3500m above sea level. Transfer to hotel. Breakfast at the hotel before 09.30 am. Half Day at rest for acclimatization. Lunch at the hotel. After Lunch drive to Visit Shanti Stupa Leh Palace, Later in the evening walk around local market. Dinner and overnight stay at the Hotel in Leh.

Day 2: Thiksey , Shey monastery 3 Idiots School Campus Sindhu Darshan, 

After a leisurely breakfast drive to visit Thiksey Monastery, located on a hill-lock with formidable views of the Indus valley. Thiksey is especially noteworthy for its gigantic seated statue of the Maitreya and is also known for its (Dukhang) assembly hall which houses hundreds of rectangular prayer books, stacked between wooden covers and bound in silk. After that we continue to drive through series of chortens to visit Shey Palace the former summer palace of the King of Ladakh. 3 Idiots School Campus Sindhu Darshan visit, Dinner and Over Night at the Hotel in Leh.

Day 3: Drive Sham Valley Alchi -70km (One Way)

After breakfast, carry packed lunch for the day. Sightseeing of 1000 year old Alchi monastery the only Gompa in Ladakh region on flat ground. Thereafter proceed to the Likir Monastrey to visit the splendid three storeys Dharma Wheel Gompa. Here youll be awestruck with the sight of the massive Buddha statues., Indus Zanskar river Sangam, drive along the Indus river visiting, Pathar Sahib Gurdwara and Magnetic Hill (where the cars defy gravity), Basgo Palace Hiking only and further on to Leh Hall of Fame (which has a museum of the Kargil War memorabilia) Dinner and Over Night at the Hotel in Leh.

Day 4: HEMIS FESTIVAL 

Full day at Hemis festival (opening Ceremony). Dinner and Over Night at the Hotel in Leh.

Day 5: HEMIS FESTIVAL 

Closing Ceremony. Dinner and Over Night at the Hotel in Leh.

Day 6: Tour of Khardungla Pass (18380FT) Stok 

After breakfast drive to Khardungla- world’s highest motorable road at 18832 feet above sea level. At Khardungla pass the snow capped peaks of Nubra Valley and the mountain views of Stok range are amazing. In the afternoon we will visit Singhu point (Indus River where all the Singhes pay holy bath) and Stok Museum. The Stok palace and museum is around 200 years old. The palace and museum at Stok is a showpiece for the royal tankhas, royal crown, dresses, coins, precious stones and turquoise head dresses. Return back to the hotel for Dinner over Night at the Hotel in Leh.

Day 7: Tour of Pangong Lake

It is the highest land locked lake (155 Kms on way from Leh 05 Hrs driver each way. After an early breakfast we leave for Pangong Lake through Changla pass 5486 Mtrs. Pangong Lake, situated at 14,000 feet (4,267 m). A long narrow basin of inland drainage, hardly six to seven kilometer at its widest point and over 130km long, it is bisected by the international border between India and China. A few years back the government decided to open it to tourists though the lake and its surrounding is under army surveillance. Enjoy the landscape in the back drop of the Lake. One rarely feels so close to nature and environment and the scenery is unforgettable. Drive back to Leh Over Night at the Hotel in Leh.

Day 8: Depart Leh

In the morning transfer to the airport to board the flight for your onward destination

Lamayuru to Alchi trek

Around 125 km off Leh, on a spectacularly beautiful road, lie some of the earliest surviving monasteries ofLadakh. The Gompas are remarkably built on sand stone and date back to the 11th Century. The monastery has a remarkable history and the surrounding areas present an interesting topography.

The Alchi Monastery lie 69 kms west of Leh, the most famous and largest of all the Gompa built by Rinchen Zangpo in the 11th Century. The monastery houses some of the best murals and frescoes representing the Kashmiri style of Buddhist iconography. Each monastery in Ladakh is distinct in itself and for those who wish to experience the uniqueness of Ladakhi monasteries this is an ideal opportunity.

This is a beautiful and interesting Ladakh trek where we will come across some of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh tourism, founded around 11th century by Lotsawa Rinchen Sangpo. Lamayuru, Wanla, and Alchi are too important to be missed because of their historical values. This trek is unique as it offers an opportunity to see not only the many natural beauties of Ladakh trip, but also some of its most famous monasteries.

This 5 day trek is spiritually enlightening. It reinvigorates the senses and compels one to introspect and express gratitude to some of the world’s most sacred places.

ay 01: Leh - Lamayuru – Wanla 3250 m (3-4 hrs)

We drive from Leh in the morning towards Lamayuru (3 hrs) along the Indus River through Sham valley. After visiting the Lamayuru monastery, we pack our backpacks, watch the horses get ready and set off for our first day's trek. After following the stream for some time, we will gradually move up to the small pass of Prinkti La (3750m). We will then walk down a narrow gorge to the small village of Shilla, and the last 3 kms will take us to Wanla (3250m).

Day 02: Wanla – base of Tarla 4200 m (8 hrs)

On this day we will follow the dusty road along the river's left bank and arrive at the small village of Phenjilla (3410 m). From Phenjilla, we will follow the left side of the valley along a small stream for around an hour and arrive at the scattered Ursi village. We will walk a little further to arrive at our campsite.

Day 03: Base of Tarla –Tar (6-7 hrs)

The trail from the camp is clear but challenging as we will have to trek up and down a few times before reaching the Tarla (5250 m). Our hard labor will be rewarded with the splendid view of the mountains around. Climbing down is difficult due to a mass of fallen rocks strewn about. It takes 3-4 hrs for us to reach our campsite at the village of Tar.

Day 04: Tar – Mang Gyu (4-5 hrs)

From Tar, the path heads up along the mountainside to a small pass. We will have an easy descent to Man Gyu village, where there are traditional Ladakhi houses and an ancient monastery worth visiting. It is believed that the monasteries of the Mang Gyu and Alchi were built on the same day.

Day 05: Mang Gyu – Alchi – Leh.

We will end our last day by walking down a very beautiful narrow valley covered with rosebushes all along the path. We will reach the village of Gera, where we’ll find our vehicle waiting to take us back to Leh. But before that we will visit the beautiful and famous monasteries of Alchi and Likir.

Sandakphu Trek

Sandakphu Trek

Sandakphu, the world famous trekking paradise, from where you can enjoy the clear views of Himalayan Giants Like Mount Everest, Kanchanjunga, Lothse, Nuptse, Makalu, Janu, Pandim, Chomolhori and many more upto Arunachal Pradesh. People in the trekking circle have surely heard of the Sandakphu trek along the Singalila Range. Those getting introduced to trekking adventure activities this trek is the most suitable with awesome views.

Day 1 : Arriving at Darjeeling (2134 Mt.)

Arrive at Darjeeling the hill capital of the West Bengal or the capital of Gorkhaland

Day 2 : Transfer to Dhotrey by Bus/Jeep. Trek to Tumling (2900 Mt.) 7 km.

First day is quite an easy hike across scenic locations to go on top of India, cross a border outpost and head into Tumling (Nepal). But the most amazing experience on this trip was the beautiful trees and birds chirping, while we overlooked the clear blue skies.  The true beauty of this experience was our feeling of being in a different country and trekking to it. 

Day 3 : Trek to Kalipokhri (3108 Mt.) 13 km.

Today’s trek is quite challenging with 13kms trek to Kalipokhri which means The black Lake in Nepali.

Day 4 : Trek to Sandakphu (3636 Mt.) 6 km.

Day 5 : Trek to Gurdum (2910 Mt.) 14 km.

Day 6 : Trek to Rimbik (2286 Mt.)  Back to Darjeeling

Hampta Pass - A beginners Delight

Escape to the natural wonders of Great Himalayas, just south of Manali, for an unforgettable experience. Hampta Passtrek is the beginners delight in every way easy access, dense pine forest, beautiful meadows, adrenaline pumping river crossings and a high altitude mountain pass called Hampta. It got its name from the Hampta village and shepherds and villagers used this pass to enter in Lahaul Spiti valley of Himachal. This was traditional alternative route between Lahaul and Kullu Valley before the road was made over Rohtang Pass.

Hampta Pass is a moderate trek with a scope of mixing lot of other adventure activities to suit varying duration and interest of trekkers. It start from the Prini village and takes us to the majestic foothills of The Great Hiamalayas, the Pir Panjal Range which is the largest range of the lower Himalayas. Over this trek one will see different hues of nature as you gain altitude from thick green pine forest to awe inspiring view of Mt. Deo Tibba and Mt.Indrasan and their snaking down glaciers to the barren landscape of Lahaul and Spiti valley.

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The trail for the trek begins after you cross the hydel power project buildings, it takes you into the pine forest with occasional bunch of other trees like Maple, Walnut, Oak and Alder. After walking for sometime with a mild gradient you have to cross a beautiful nala  over a wooden bridge can stop here for water and a photography break.

This trail leads to a open meadow with river Hampta flowing on one side, here you will get the first view of Deo Tibba and Indrasan. On the other side of river you will see beautiful rock faces and above those there lies the manali lake.

This meadow is called Chikka and is the Camp for the day. Chikka has lush green grass so you will find some sheeps or grazing there, nestled in between of rocky mountain face and pine and maple trees. On one side Rani River is flowing and few small ponds and nice and flat camping places. On top of that majestic views of snow clad mountains and evening might see the twinkling lights of Manali town from some spots.

You can do campfire here for that team work is required go into the forest and collect dry logs of wood in further camps no wood is available. After having pitched your tent, traverse the meadow, climb the hill for height gain and have bonfire with the hot fantastic dinner.

After the excellent quality sleep, be ready for the next destination Balu Ka Gera which is about 4-5 hours gradual ascent from Chikka. Have a heavy breakfast start your day with a small walk and then crossing the river over the huge logs put by shepherds.

Keep watching the Gendarme (mountaineering term which is a pinnacle of rock on a mountain ridge) right infront of you, keep walking on left bank of river. This entire walk will be through the rocks and boulders. On the way you will get some superb boulders to try your hands and hone your skills on bouldering. After few hours of walk you take a right turn and here come the thrill and chill the crossing of nullah. Take of your shoes and just take the plunge…no only knee depth only. The water is icy cold so don’t stay in water for too long. Now you are just halfway from your destination.

On one side you have superb rock face and river flowing beneath them and right in front of you valley full of snow and trees are left behind only small bushes. Walk along the river through boulder you will reach Balu ka Gera which means Heaps of Sand. This is flat ground with river flowing one side and a nice water stream just near the campsite. Its water will be used for drinking and for food. In the night from here you can try your hands on night photography of stars with snow clad mountains.

Next desination is Shea Goru after crossing the highest point of trekHamptaPass.

Morning Excercise

Todays trek would be moderately steep and then steep descent from the Hampta pass. While approaching the Hampta pass you can see some the wonders of mountains like Cornice formation, Glaciers and their snouts and of course snow along the way. Stay at Hampta for your lunch at an altitude of 14500ft and be ready to careful steep descent and wear your backpack in case you fall your backpack will save your back.

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From top you will be able to see your campsite, it seems very near but it takes good two hours to reach there.  Tall snow clad mountains surround you from three sides and the open side leads you to Sheagoru. Again you have the river flowing to your right. Choose a nice camp site close to the river and retire happily for the day after crossing HamptaPass.

River Rafting Packages

Rishikesh is a popular spot for white water rafting enthusiasts, both from India and abroad, as it offers medium to rough rapids in the course of river Ganges, with rapids rated grade 3 and grade 4 rapids. It is also a center or hiking and backpacking. Now one try bungee jumping and flying fox in Rishikesh.

This the most famous trip to Rishikesh of  2 Days and 1 Night

Rafting with Bungee Jumping

Day 01. Arrive in Rishikesh before 10:00 am. Go to Junmping site & after jump back to Rishikesh Have a lunch.Later, transfer to the base camp and then spend some free time to explore the area. Either you can relax in the camp or take a Jungle walk near the campsite. Enjoy evening tea, bonfire with lite snacks. Have Dinner. Overnight at the camp.

Day 02. Have the morning tea. After breakfast, start on a River Rafting from Shivpuri to Rishikesh (16 kms). Today, we hit some of the most exciting rapids on the Ganga i.e. Return to Sender, Roller Coaster, Golf Course, Club house, Initiation, Double Trouble and Hilton. One can try Body Surfing and Cliff Jumping also in this section. In the later part, we float past temples and ashrams and Ghats. Enjoy the riverbank life along the Ganga. Arrive in Rishikesh. The tour terminates.

Nanda Devi East Base Camp Trek

Nanda Devi West (7816mts) is the highest peak completely in India (PoK not included). It is surrounded by dozen of peaks each not less than 6200mts forming an amphitheatre with circumference of nearly 70 miles. Nanda Devi east(7454) connected to Nanda Devi by a ridge of 3kms long, It took a long time to explore this region; when the Europeans first tried to measure the height, they couldn't believe that there could exist a peak of that height on earth!

Itinerary

Day01- Kathgodam to Munsiyari

It’s a whole day drive to Munsyari. You pass through Almora, Bageshwar, Kausani, Choukhori and Thal. The road winds itself all the way upto Kalamuni top at a height of 9027 ft before descending into the glorious Munsyari valley. Munsyari is a small hamlet nestled in the Pithogarh district of Uttarakhand and is the last road head in Kumaon. Munsyari lies on the Indo – Tibet border and is the point of cross over into Tibet. Overnight stay at guesthouse at Munsyari.

Day02- Munsiyari (5905 ft.) to Lilam (6070 ft.) 6 km drive (8 km. trek) 4-5 hrs

Drive to Selapani towards Darkot, 6kms from Munsyari. From Darkot we start the trek descent to the Gori Ganga and continue descending until we reach the River at Jimighat. This is the lowest point of the trail and from here we start climbing to Lilam. On arrival we will setup camp for overnight stay.

Day03- Lilam (5905 Ft.) to Nehar Devi (8480 Ft) Via Bugdiyar (13kms) 6 hrs.

Head for Bugdiar 5 kms from the start we cross the confluence of Ralam River and Gori Ganga. Above the Gori Ganga the hill sides above are covered in dense bamboo forest. After the junction of the Ralam and Gori Ganga rivers the trek climbs to a tea shop at Radgari, and then goes to a small rest house at Bugdiar. A memorial commemorates villagers and army personals lost in the avalanche of 1989, and now only a few houses remain on the edge of a waste land. Shepherds with their flocks of sheep and goats are a common sight at the meadows of Bugdiar. On arrival set up campsite for overnight stay in tents.

Day04- Nehardevi (8480 Ft.) to Martoli (11316 Ft.) (13km.) 7 hrs

The valley opens up after climbing quite steeply to an overhanging cliff which shelters a local deity. The route enters progressively drier terrain, but there are two water falls of about 100m one opposite a tea shop at Mapang. The trek continues to climbs to the village of Martoli-- this village used to be a thriving village of several hundred people until trading was stopped on the closure of the border with Tibet in 1962. The trek continues to the village Martoli situated at the edge of Lwan Gad Valley.

Day05- Martoli (11316 Ft.) to Ganghar (10920 Ft.) (9km) 4 hrs.

A 10km (5 hrs) trek in the shadow of the magnificent Martoli Peak takes us to the ancient village of Ghangar, which is dotted with typical Jauhar houses and an ancient temple all with intricate wood carvings.

Day06- Ganghar (10920 Ft.) to Panchu (12765Ft.) (5km). 3 hrs.

A strenuous 7km trek (5 hrs) through lush green vegetation, mostly pink and white rhododendron flowers with Mt. Nanda Devi looming in the distance, makes this trek an exhilarating experience. We will camp in an alpine meadow at the head of the Pachhu Glacier which lies on the North Face of Mt. Nanda Devi. Overnight stay in tents.

Day07- Panchu (12765Ft.) to Base camp (14100 Ft.) and back to Martoli (11316 Ft.) (15km) 8 hrs.

The walk to the base camp is a gradual ascend. Walking through boulders is easier than walking across landslides. There was a nameless glacial lake on the way. After that trek mostly downhill only the last bit is up. Martoli is one the very important destinations from the ancient Indo-Tibetan trade route. The exquisite wood carvings on old houses speak stories about how this was the commercial centre once upon a time. From Martoli you also get fascinating views of the Nanda devi (East) and Nanda kot.

Day08- Martoli (11316 Ft.) to Rargari (7100Ft.) (18 km) 6 hrs.

Start walking towards Raragri through railkot, Nehardevi, Bugdiya. Overnight stay in huts.

Day09- Rargari (7100 Ft.) to Munsiyari (5905 Ft.) (13km.) 7 hrs.

We will trek to Munsiyari which is around 14 kms from Rargari. Treat yourself with luxury of hot bath during our stay in a hotel.

Day10- Munsiyari to Kathgodam 280km

We drive down to Kathgodam and reach by evening to take the overnight train/bus to New Delhi.

Goecha La Trek - Sikkim Beauty at its best

This popular trek in Sikkim, is from Yuksom to Dzongri and onwards to Goecha La, and has superb views of Kanchenjunga. From Yuksom, the trail follows the  RathongValley to Bakhim crossing four small bridges and from here a steep ascent to the village Tsokha. Tsokha has small pond and a monastery with few tea stalls and restaurants. Above Tsokha the trail reaches Phedang. A further stage brings you to Dzongri (4020 M). From here the trail drops steeply down the river to Thansing (3930 M).  The final stop is at Samiti Lake from which an assault is made to Goecha La (4940 M) for the best views of Kanchenjunga. Dzongri is situated at an altitude of about 4020 M, in west Sikkim. It offers the trekker a most fascinating close-up view of Khangchenjunga and Mt. Pandim.  To the west rises the long outline of the Kyangla ridge. Dzongri is trekker’s paradise .Goecha La is situated at an altitude of about 4940 M. Goecha La offers a mind catching sight of the mountains like Pandim, Khangchenjunga and the others. There are only few trekking routes around the Kangchenjunga National Park that are open to visitors. The trek is traditional which follows a picturesque route past lush vegetation and wonderful mountain views until it reaches a high pass. The training courses of the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute are conducted in these valleys and Rathong Glacier is their main training area for ice craft and others training on glacier.

Day 01: Delhi – Bagdogra – Yoksum

Take morning flight from Delhi to Bagdogra. Meet our representative and drive towards Yoksum. Yoksum is the base of our trek. Dinner and overnight stay in guesthouse/tents.

Day 02: Yuksom (1785 mts/5854 ft) – Tshokha (3000 mts/9840 ft) (14 kms/5-6 hrs)

The trail from Yuksom starts at the local market and follows main road towards the north. The trail climbs gently out of the valley and hugs the right bank of the Rathong Chu River, which can be heard thundering through the gorge below. The trail crosses over four bridges to climb steeply towards north-west to the small settlement of Bakhim. Continue for another 3 kms through forest of magnolia and rhododendron to reach Tshokha. On arrival set campsite for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 03: Tshokh – Dzongri (4030 mts/13218 ft) (10 kms/5-6 hrs)

On this day the trail passes through the village of Tshokh and continues to climb north through the forest of rhododendron to the alp of Phidang (3650 m) taking around 3 hrs to complete the ascent. Continue further towards Dzongri. On arrival set campsite for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 04: Rest day & Acclimatise at Dzongri

Today is the rest day for acclimatization. On this day one can savour views of the mountain peaks by climbing up to Dzongri Top. From here you get a panoramic view of Kabru (7353 m), Rathong (6678 m), Kanchenjunga (8534 m), Koktang (6147 m), Pandim (6691 m) and Narsing (5825 m). Towards the west, the Singalila Ridge, which separates Sikkim from Nepal, can be seen. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 05: Dzongri – Tangsing (3800 mts/ 12464 ft) (10 kms/4-5 hrs)

The trail from Dzongri continues along the right bank of the river towards east. After cresting the hill the path drops into the valley and then crosses the bridge over the Prek Chu river. Its an hour climb from the bridge to Tangsiing (3800 m) located on the slopes of Mt Pandim. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 06: Tangsing – Samiti Lake (4500 mts/ 14760 ft) (7 kms/3-4 hrs)

The trail from Tangsiing climbs gently north and follows a stream and alpine meadows. About an hour above Tangsiing we reach Onglathang from where the superb view of the south face of Kanchenjunga can be seen. In order to capture clear views one has to reach Onglathang early. The trail then skirts through a series of glacial moraines before crossing over meadows again, and arrives at the emerald lake at Samiti. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 07: Samiti Lake – Goecha La (5002 mts/ 16406 ft) – Samiti Lake (12 kms/6-7 hrs)

The climb to Goecha La begins with a gentle gradient eastwards for about half an hour and then later the steep ascent starts. The trail follows the glacial moraine north-east and then drops to a dry lake at Zemathang. A tough scramble over rocks and boulders with a rise of 400 meters will bring us on the top of the pass. The pass is formed due to the depression between Pandim and the Kabru spurs. It over looks the Talung Valley and commands a very impressive view of the south face of Kanchejunga. Afternoon return to the Samiti lake. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Bachendri's brother to scale Mt Everest

Celebrity Indian mountaineer Bachendri Pal's younger brother, Rajendra Singh, along with two tribals from Jharkhand, are all set to scale the world's highest mountain peak, the Mount Everest.

Binita Soren and Meghlal Mahato, both of whom hail from district Seraikela in Jharkhand, along with Rajendra Sigh Pal, the younger brother of Bachendri Pal, the first Indian woman to climb the 29,035ft summit, will fly to Kathmandu on March 25th for the Eco-Everest expedition.

The trio will set on their journey, which is being sponsored by the Tata Steel Adventure Foundation (TSAF), from March 26 and will reach the base camp on April 17. In the interim the team will also scale the Island Peak at a height 20,275ft.

The trekkers are expected to reach the summit by the end of May depending upon the prevailing conditions.

Mahato, who along with Binita climbed Mt Aconcagua in Argentina earlier this month said he was very excited and added that mountaineering has lifted him from the rubbles to the top of the world.

"I am very excited about the expedition. Mountaineering has lifted me from the poverty line to the Mt Everest," said Mahato, who holds a postgraduate degree in Economics. All three of them have been preparing hard at the TSAF under the watchful eyes of veteran Bachendri Pal.

"We have prepared well, both mentally and physically. The expedition to Aconcagua has helped a lot," said Binita, whose inception to mountaineering came as a chance.

"I come from village Tumlung. Three kilometres from my home there is the training center of TSAF. I had heard a lot about mountaineering and one day decided to visit the center with some of my friends and since then I have never looked back," said Binita, who has also Mt Stok Kangri (20,305ft) and Mt Saser Kangri (24,331ft) to her credit.

The Mystery Lake Trek - Roopkund Lake

RoopKund becomes famous when large number of Human bones was reported. After that explorers and scientists have tried to explain the mystery but it helped in deepening the mystery rather solving it. Two theories have emerged and one is that these bones are of Gen. Zorawar Singh of Kashmir and his men who were coming back after raiding China-Tibet in 17th Century. Second opinion, which is also believed by locals, is that large numbers of people visiting Hemkund were trapped in avalanches and snowstorms and got killed. Not even a single man survived to tell the true story.

Situated at a height of 5029 mts in the lap of Trishul massif, Roop Kund Lake is situated at eastern part of chamoli district of Garhwal in Uttaranchal, This area is usually called the 'Mystery Lake', since human skeletons and remains of horses from the age of paleolithic age were found here. The lake is surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow clad peaks. The starting point of the trek is Debal.

The route passes through lush green grassy land and conifer forests clinging onto the slopes of hills. The trek thereafter winds it's way along the Pinder river. Then to round off this trek, one can approach Hemkund via Shail Samudra glacier and then move on to Ghat or Nandprayag (in Chamoli district in the Garhwal region). For the round trek, services of a guide are advisable. Famous Bedni Bugyal(meadow), on the way to Roopkund, attracts nature lovers around the world. The attractions of the treks are bhagwawasa and bedni bugyal. You will found a lot of "Bramhakamal" at trekking routes. The best time for trekking in roop kund trek is August to October."

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Kathgodam to Loharjung

You can reach Kathgodam through one of the most famous trains reaching the destination, which is the Ranikhet express. The Roopkund trek has its starting point from here. The mystery lake trek would give you a incredible experience. It is just living your dream.

Day 2: Loharjung to Didna Village

Just behind the bus stand in Lohargunj, take the trail that takes you to Raun Bagad. It is a fairly marked trail that descends through mixed forests. It is a moderate trek and you would take around 2-2½ hrs to reach the Ruan Bagad. There is an iron bridge across the famous Neel Ganga river. There is also an alternative route to reach here from Loharjung which is through the road towards Wan. It is an easy 6km walk to Kulling Village where after there is a steep slope towards Ruan Bagad. You can opt for the latter, which is easy to travel but you would certainly miss on the beautiful mixed forests. Hereafter the climb to Didna starts once you cross the iron bridge. With a relatively tough time in the beginning, you would reach Didna in about and an hour and a half’s time. This climb will teach you some pretty good mountaineering skills.

Day 3- Didna Village to Ali Bugyal 

To reach Ali Bugyal from Didna, there are two alternative routes. If you look in the direction of the valley, you would look at Tolpani, which is a cluster of huts that belong to the shepherds. It is almost 3 kms away and 1000 feet high. From Tolpani, you take a trail that climbs to Tolkaan in the northern direction. The meadow trek goes through a series of switchbacks and grassy oak mountains. From Tolkaan, you take a sharp left towards the south and steer through the ridge to come out of the forest at Ali Bugyal.

The alternative route is to climb directly towards Ali Bugyal without going through Toplani. You would certainly save on distance but it a relatively much steeper and tiring climb. It takes nearly two and a half hours to reach Ali Bugyal on this route.

To enjoy the seductive views from Ali Bugyal, you need to reach there before afternoon. It is a great post monsoon trek as well as a pre monsoon trek.

Day 4- Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani

The trek from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Latoni is an easy trek. You would follow a straight line ahead of you for about 3 kms. On your gradual increase to the slope, the trek brings you to the other side of the ridge. The view from this point is absolutely marvellous.

Ghora Lotani is a brilliant campsite and offers you great views all around. It is an easy day and you will get time to relax and acclimatize to the weather conditions before going ahead with your trekking. In fact, you could consider spending a day here to adapt to the altitude and atmosphere.

Day 5-Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa

This is the day when you make a steep dash to gain altitude and finally trek in the snow line. The day’s snow trek will bring you to an altitude of 14,500 ft from 12,500 ft. It is an high altitude trekking and you would start feeling the effects of weather change and thin air and definitely the effects of high altitude. You would have to start your day early as you would like to reach Bhagwabasa as early to acclimatize to the weather. Your route takes a climb to Kalu Vinayak, which is a steep and zigzag way to take you up the mountain. Go through this section carefully and slowly.

It takes around one and a half hours to reach Kalu Vinayak. The route from Kalu Vinayak to Bhagwabasa is simple and gradually sloping downwards. Bhagwabasa is 2 kms away and you can have a view of the Bhagwabasa huts from here. The trail towards Bhagwabasa goes through snow patches and you would enjoy the journey.

Day 6- Bhagwabasa to Roopkund

You have to start the day as early as 5 AM. The sooner you start, the better it is for you as the snow is still hard, while later in the day, it would get soft and your feet would start sinking in. Roopkund is a 5 km gradually up-hill climb from Bhagwabasa. You will have steep climb towards the end of the trail to reach Roopkund. It would take about 3 - 3½ hours to reach Roopkund.

Once you climb to Roopkund, you must climb up to Junargali. Trekkers must visit unless the weather is very harsh and does not permit you. The climb to Junargali is not long. It is around 200 ft and doesn’t take much time. It is hardly a climb of 25 - 30 min. You can start off early to return back to Bedni Bugyal via Bhagwabasa. You need to be careful in trekking back as the snowy slopes may trick you.

Day 7- Bedni Bugyal to Loharjung via Wan. Bedni to wan (trek) wan to Loharjung (drive)

It is a great journey back to Lohajung via Wan. The path is fairly simple and you would not feel any distress throughout. You would cross the oak forest as you go and the scenic beauty is just mesmerizing. You would see the end of meadows after a few minutes. On a clear day, you would be astonished by looking at the Trishul on your way back from Bedni Bugyal to Wan. You would go down the Rhododendron forest. You would have a steep descent for the Neel Ganga. Faster trekkers reach there in approximately one and a half hours. However you should take your time and enjoy the beauty as you go by.

Day 8- Loharjung to Kathgodam

After getting to the base camp at Loharjung and finishing the Roopkund trek, you might think of spending a day at Loharjung. This is a great place to relax and chill out after your high altitude trek that has left your adrenaline pumping. You would enjoy the weather but definitely miss what you had at Roopkund or on its way. Travelling back to Loharjung is pretty simple and doesn’t really require any skill. 

Valley of Flowers Trek

Area: Garhwal Himalayas Duration: 06 Days Altitude: 3858 mts Grade: Easy Season:July To Sept

The snow on the Himalayas add majesty to the mountains and the innumerable flowers add to its beauty. This famous spot is not very difficult to reach. When the sun shines hot on this field, thousands of flowers bloom here. Tourists from all over the world come here. This valley was unknown till a British mountaineer Frank Smith first discovered this place. In 1931, Frank Smith wanted to scale a peak in Garhwal called Comet. While returning after successfully completing his mission he took the western pass and lost his way and reached this valley after many difficulties.

All of a sudden he came upon a sea of flowers which totally enchanted him. He put up a tent and stayed here for many days. During these days he collected 260 different species of flowers. Some seeds he took back with him. In 1937, he came back again to this valley and stayed here for a long time. Then he wrote a book called "The Valley of Flowers". Soon after this this place became world famous. Nature lovers started visiting this valley. Millions of different flowers adorn this valley. One also finds different kinds of insects, birds and butterflies. This valley is surrounded by high mountains on three sides and is at a height of 3500 to 6,500 mts above sea level.

In 1982, this valley was named the Republic Park. Its area was fixed at 87.5 sq. kms, Some of the flowers are saxifrags, sediams, lilies, poppy, calendular, daisies, denthus, turmopsis, primula, dadiculatar, pontitala, geranium, cipro nepolysis, holly, pansy, zinnia, petunia, fox, caropsis dynthus etc. Many small streams flow within this valley adding to its overall beauty. The high mountain peaks surrounding this valley stand guardian to this beautiful sight. The glaciers amongst this look very attractive.

After reading Frank Smith's book many foreign tourists came here. One of them was an English woman called Margaret Lague who came here in 1939. She was very fond of flowers. On the 4th of July, when she was trying to pick one of the rare flowers she slipped from a rock and fell into a chasm to her death. In her memory the tombstone on her grave reads as "My eyes will forever drink in the beauty of the mountains which gave me strength and inspiration". The tourists who visit this valley never fail to visit her grave and pay homage.

Day 01: Haridwar - Govindghat (245 kms/8-9 hrs) 
Arrive at Haridwar by morning train and drive to to Govindghat via Joshimath and Devprayag. On the way visit Dev prayag where Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers meet. From here the holy river Ganges started. Arrival at Joshimath by evening, check into the hotel. Dinner & overnight stay.

Day 02: Govindghat - Ghangaria (14 kms/3-4 hrs) 

Govindghat there is a gradual ascent along a well maintained pilgrim trail to Ghangaria. Upon arrival at Ghangria check into hotel. Explore the surroundings in the evening. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. 

Day 03: Ghangaria - Valley Of Flowers - Ghangria (5 kms one side/4-5 hrs) 
After breakfast trek to Valley Of Flowers (3858 m) from Ghangaria. The valley is an enchanting sight with an impressive array of rare wildflowers like Geranium, Marsh marigold, Prinula, Potentilla, Geum, Asters, Lilium, Ranunculus, Corydalis, Inula, Braham kamal, Campanula, Pedicularis, Arisaema, Morina, Impatiens, Bistorta, Ligularia, Anaphalis, Saxifrages, Sibbaldia, Thermo- psis, Trollius, Codonopsis, Dactylorhiza, Cypripedium, Str- awberry, Epilobium, Rhododendrons and numerous others. Most of the flowers have medicinal values too. The valley is 10 kms long, 2 kms wide, and is divided by the Pushpawati stream, into which several tiny streams and waterfalls merge. After enjoying the beauty of valley trek back to Ghangaria. Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 04: Hemkund-Ghanghria 
After breakfast trek to Hemkund Sahib (4329 m) from Ghangaria. This is quite a steep climb. In the Sikh holy book, The Granth Sahib, the Sikh Guru Gobind Singh recounts that in a previous life, he meditated on the shores of a lake surrounded by seven snowcapped mountains now recognized by Hemkund. Late afternoon trek back to Ghangaria. Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 05: Ghangaria - Govind Ghat - Joshimath
After breakfast trek down to reach Govind Ghat and from here drive to Joshimath. Upon arrival at Joshimath check into the hotel. Rest of the day is free to explore the area.One can also visit Auli in the evening. Dinner and over night stay at the hotel.

Day 06: Joshimath -Rishikesh/Haridwar Early morning drive to Rishikesh/Haridwar with packed breakfast. On the way visit Rudraprayag where river Mandakini and Alaknanda meet. Lunch enroute. Arrive Rishikesh/Haridwar by evening. Check into the hotel/camp for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 07: Rishikesh/Haridwar After an early breakfast drive to Delhi. OR Start Rafting (Rishikesh) trip OR Local Sight Seeing & Temples.,lunch, Tour Terminate. End of the Services 

Deoria Chopta Chadrashila Trek

Area: Garhwal Himalayas Duration: 05 Days or 3 Days Altitude:4090 mts Grade: Easy Season: May - June & Sept - Oct

Chandrashila Trek is one of the popular trek that can be undertaken round the year, in Garhwal Himalayas except during heavy snowing months of December & January.Chandrashila summit is a rock face above the temple of Tungnath, the highest of all the temples in the Himalayas. It is a short but rigorous hike beyond the temple. The Chandrashila summit affords the most beautiful view of the Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak and Chaukhamba peaks.Chopta is one of the most beautiful and picturesque spots in the whole Garhwal. The breathtaking view of the Himalayas is treat for the eyes as well as soul. Chopta is situated on the Gopeshwar - Ukhimath road at a distance of about 40 Kms. from Gopeshwar Chopta is 2900 mts high.Deoriatal Lake has captivating surroundings with forest all around. The mighty Chaukhamba Peak & Neelkanth peaks are reflected in the pristine waters of this lake.

Itinerary:

Day 01: Haridwar - Ukhimath (200 kms/7-8 hrs) Reach Haridwar by morning train we drive to Ukhimath via Rishikesh, Devprayag (Confluence of Alaknanda & Bhagirathi, from Devprayag the Holy river Ganges started), Rudraprayag (Confluence of Alaknanda & Mandakini River). Breakfast and lunch enroute. Arrival at Ukhimath by evening. Check into Hotel. Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 02: Ukhimath - Deoriatal (2438 mts/7998 ft) In the morning you can see snow clapped Himalayan ranges. After breakfast start your trek to Deoriatal through dense forest of Rhodendron and lots of wild flowers and ferns. The trek will take 3- 4 hrs to reach Deoriatal. Upon arrival at Deoriatal set out the tents for overnight stay.

Day 03: Deoriatal - Sari - Chopta In the morning trek down to Sari village (3 kms) and from here drive to Chopta through dense forest and meadows. Its 30 kms drive from Sari Village. Upon arrival at Chopta set out your tents for overnight stay. In the evening explore the magnificent view of the Himalayas.

Day 04: Chopta -Tungnath (3680 ft/12070 ft) - Chandrasila (4090 mts/13415 ft) - Chopta After an early breakfast trek to Tungnath with packed lunch. Tungnath is situated at the height of 3680 mts from the sea level the highest in India. The trek is three kms upward. Enroute you will find lush green meadows and you can see the entire range of snow clapped Himalayas. Upon arrival at Tungnath Temple and visit the temple. After relax one further one kms trek to Chandrasila peak. Later trek back to Chopta for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 05: Chopta - Rishikesh After an early breakfast drive to Rishikesh. Lunch enroute. Upon arrival at Rishikesh transfer to camp/Hotel. Dinner and overnight at Rishikesh. 

Day 06: Rishikesh - After an early breakfast drive to Delhi. OR Start Rafting trip OR Local Sight Seeing & Temples.,lunch, Tour Terminate. End of the Services. 

TCIL initiates ‘Travel & Learn’ Packages in India

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd (TCIL), India’s travel and travel related financial services company has recently taken an initiative to launch new ‘Travel & Learn’ packages - tours that are educational and fun. The packages include 12 world class destinations USA, South Africa, Australia, Ireland, Paris, Switzerland, London, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. 

‘Travel & Learn’ is another unique, innovative and pioneering initiative from Thomas Cook India’s outbound travel portfolio, with a delightful infusion of experiential and practical learning - where theory comes to life. ‘Travel & Learn’ packages are out-of-school experiential learning tours which help students in adopting a more practical approach towards education.

Speaking on the initiative, Madhav Pai, Chief Operating Officer, Leisure Travel (Outbound) said: “Thomas Cook (India) Ltd has always promoted education and encouraged the progress and development of youth. This initiative is aimed at giving young adults a chance to learn and grow, while enjoying the excitement of being on a holiday. At Thomas Cook we believe that learning should not be restricted to classrooms; travel itself is a delightful tutor.”  

Trans Himalayan Jeep Expedition - Manali to Leh Ladakh Jeep Safari

About Ladakh

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Ladakh a barren, virtually rainless area is the most remote region of India. The defiance of its barren landscape, unique flora and fauna, birds, culture, clear blue skies and clean air has much more to offer than just a good holiday. Ladakh is also known as "The Moonland" and romantically as "the last Shangri La" where as Ladakh in Tibetan language means “The Land of Passes”