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The beauty of every trekking expedition is unique in its nature and form. Sar Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh is the most popular one amidst the stunning trails of the world. So, do not miss the chance to share the vastness of the Himalayas and challenge your inner potential for some thrill, adventure and excitement.

Know About Sar Pass Trek Before Your Visit

There is a lot of mystery, excitement and thrill involved when you go for the Sar Pass trek. Located in Parvati Valley of Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 13,800ft, Sar Pass Trek is perfect for those who wish to experience all the beauty that nature has to offer.  The Himalayas have continued to inspire the human race since time immemorial. From towering peaks to lush green meadows and beautiful valleys with crystal clear streams, there are several amazing views that await you on your journey to Sar Pas. Moreover, coniferous trees, rhododendron plants and colourful flowers resemble that sublime beauty which makes this place look like a prelapsarian Eden world. Rediscover eternal beauty and tranquillity as you make your way to your final destination.

Sar Pass Trek: The Highs and the Lows
The starting point of trekking for Sar Pass is Kasol, which acts as a base for most of the trekking trails in Himachal Pradesh. The town is known for providing a chance to relish the authentic Israeli food. The first day of the journey starts with a trek from Kasol to Grahan village. Initially, the trail seems easy to navigate and enables one to cover much distance in a couple of hours. However, the gentle gradient of the trail begins to transform soon as it becomes little rocky and steep after crossing the river, Grahan Nalah. Grahan village, situated at the top of the hill, will be visible after a steep climb of about an hour. The surreality and the beauty of the village, formed some 500 years ago, lends this place an extraordinary charm. It appears to be more appealing for those who love art, as it is considered to be a stoner’s and painter’s paradise. Replete with the beauty of traditional Himachali houses, pine forests and Rhododendron trees, you can relax in the company of nature.

The next stop on the trek is at Min Thach. Commonly used by locals to access their farms or cattle, the trail of Min Thach is replete with natural beauty. The sunset painting the sky golden is one of the most soothing sights after an exhausting trek from Grahan village to Min Thatch. As you climb higher towards the north, the trail becomes steeper and leads into the woods. However, Rata Pani, the most amazing lunch point, can make you forget the tiredness as you gaze in wonder at the hills on one side, and the deep valley on the other. Passing through the dense forests, you will witness mesmerising views offered by the thick canopy. During the course of the journey, be sure to admire the Chanderkhani stretch and many more ranges from the campsite at Min Thatch. Moreover, it would be helpful for the trekkers to acclimatise and warm-up to regain the energy lost during the trail.

On the next day, trek through the pastoral forest covered with snow as the trail from Min Thatch to Nagaru commences, which is the highest point of this expedition at 12,500 ft above sea level. The most beautiful experience of this expedition is to face the towering peaks and simultaneously feel the force of biting wind that literally pushes you to scale even further. Snow could be a tricky part of this trail, as the path becomes slippery, making the trail tougher. It helps a lot to have a trekking pole handy and an experienced guide at your side to ensure your safety. Starting the trek before noon is advisable in case the path is covered by snow, as the weather remains favourable during the day.

Though it may seem difficult at some points, particularly for a beginner, this is exactly where the adventure lies that inspires you to challenge and self-actualize. Once you reach the campsite of Nagaru, you will experience a different world altogether. To enjoy the picturesque views of magnificent mountains across the Parvati valley and the small glittering lights of the Manikaran town reflecting the rustic charm of nature is an experience of a lifetime. Manikaran is well-known amongst the religious pilgrims. It has a hot spring around the gurudwara, which has curative properties, and a visit to this town is considered to be as auspicious as a trip to the holy city of Varanasi.

Moving ahead from here, the next trekking destination will be Biskeri Thatch via Sar Pass. The lush green meadows, wildflowers and variety of birds at Biskeri can rejuvenate your body and mind with new energy. Biskeri Thatch also serves as an ideal location for film shooting. Apart from providing clear and majestic views of ice-covered peaks, the simplicity of the place will leave you spellbound. As you climb upward, it is crucial to keep a slow and steady pace. Though the snow is easier to walk on, it is likely that you end up exhausting every ounce of energy that you have. However, there is nothing to get anxious about. The heavenly surroundings of the location will keep your spirits high and will inspire you to celebrate the joy of completing the trek. You will be rejoiced to see the much-awaited arrival of your final destination, Sar Pass. While beholding a breathtaking view of the lofty mountains, you can take a sigh of relief and enjoy the lush green scenic beauty that nature beholds.

Like most of the hikers, you can also acclimatise and spend some quality time at Sar Pass Top. The trek to Sar Pass can provide you with an absolute escapade from the mundane struggle of your daily l

For people who love adrenaline pumping through their systems and want to experience the thrill of a lifetime, skydiving is just the thing for them. A dive from 10,000 feet above the ground does indeed send a chill down your spine. When it comes to safety, skydiving in India was considered notorious earlier. But now things have completely changed. Skydiving is gaining popularity among the youth as an exhilarating experience, and who can blame them? Just imagine yourself- jumping out of the plane, the wind rushing past as you free fall for the next 30 seconds, and then floating back to land as you gaze at the surreal beauty that is our Earth. So one early morning, I set out to tick one more thing off my ever-growing wishlist for this year – skydiving. 

I had done some research beforehand on where to go, and I chose the most reliable and safest skydiving site, Skyhigh India, situated at Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh – Kanpur Expressway, at the ‘Aligarh Airstrip’. After making some inquiries, I came to know that it is the first full-time commercial skydiving drop zone in India that not only matches international standards but is also affiliated to the United States Parachute Association (USPA). After covering about 140 km, in just two and a half hours via the Yamuna Expressway, I reached my destination.

I went inside their training institute and met several adventure lovers from around the world. We all started introducing ourselves to each other.  Some of them had already done skydiving in some other countries and they shared their thrilling experiences with me. All this was only building up my excitement, and I couldn’t wait to actually experience it myself!

We were all then introduced to the instructor, who told us that skydiving was initially not considered to be a sport, but was meant to save victims of aircraft accidents and to help with positioning armed forces on the battleground. He further said that at present, Skyhigh India only offers Tandem Skydiving and solo skydiving courses are soon to be introduced. Luckily, we got an opportunity to meet its founder, Rudra Bhani Solanki. In a conversation, we got to know that Tandem Skydiving is perfect for first timers as it is the safest and easiest style of skydiving. All you have to do is follow instructor’s guidance, take the flight up, jump and enjoy the breathtaking views! It all sounded so easy!

The parachute would be your only flying machine to provide you protection up in the sky. In case you’re planning to go for skydiving, just make sure that you get an experienced and qualified trainer, and feel free to talk to the people around you if you have any doubts.  At Aligarh Airstrip, I got a parachute that had an installed Automatic Activation Device (AAD). Also, the team provided me ground training where I was trained in all the safety measures. All the parachutes at Skyhigh India are regularly inspected and maintained for safety. In the training session, I learned various tactics and skills which I could later apply while skydiving. The instructors were truly the best, with a lot of experience in this particular field. If you are a first-timer, Sigma Tandem Parachute Systems is highly recommended as there is nothing to worry about. Everyone has to compulsorily undergo a training session of three to four days at the camp, even if they have already done skydiving before.

How It All Went Down

Finally, the day came which I had been excitedly waiting for; the day when I was going to do the skydive. All the equipment that I was supposed to carry had been previously tried and tested, so there was nothing to worry about.

In no time at all, I was taken up in a plane, ascending to the required height. While I was ready to experience the delight of my first tandem jump, I was safely strapped and securely tied together to the instructor by the assisting team. Another instructor made space for us in the aircraft. As I stood near the door, everything appeared so tiny to me, and that scared me a bit. I reminded myself that what I need to do was to rely on my instructor and wait for his guidance. In 30-40 minutes, the plane was in the drop zone. As I was told earlier in the training session, I kept breathing deeply and after five or six deep breaths, I jumped. The free fall lasted for 20-30 seconds, but nothing will be able to describe how I felt. It was exhilarating, with the wind in my face, hurtling towards the ground, at a speed of at least 200 km/hr! Free-fall was the most breathtaking, frightening yet exciting thing I had ever done. My mind was totally blank, as I experienced the thrill of the moment with a broad smile on my face that’ll definitely be back every time I will think about this. The parachute opened suddenly, and then we were floating gently down. My instructor kept guiding me with the basic tricks of the parachute, showing me how to turn it left or right. Together, we both circled and I couldn’t resist yelling at the top of my lungs.  I was on the ground in the next 30 minutes.

There is no doubt in my mind that those 30 minutes were one of the most exceptional moments of my life! I would carry this memory for a lifetime. All the credits for that remarkable 30-minute skydive go to Skyhigh India, which never compromises on safety equipment because, for them, the safety of their customers is of utmost priority. The instructors are the best that anyone is likely to find, as they are qualified and experienced. The activity here is safe and promises the best experience.

When it comes to health or body weight, anyone up to 90 kilos is fit to jump. Notably, if you have any heart-related problem, you need to show a fitness certificate signed by your consultant. Skydivers need to wear appropriate clothes as no ill-fitted clothes or strappy sandals are allowed. It is necessary to carry your athletic clothes and sports shoes.

If Safety Is A Concern 

My skydiving adventure has reassured me of one thing – there are many safe avenues where people can indulge in this activity without any apprehensions about safety. After some research, I also learned that there were some organisations in the Northern part of India which were rigorously working towards restoring people’s faith and confidence, and aim to make skydiving an accessible activity for everyone. 

All the adventure lovers in Delhi, now you don’t need to look for other avenues for Skydiving as you have a perfect option near you. Are you ready to create an unforgettable memory? If yes, then just brace yourself and go for it!

Also known as the Mystery Lake, Roopkund is a glacial lake located at a breathtaking height of around 16,499 feet above sea level in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The presence of numerous human skeletons, which can be seen in the lake when the snow melts, adds a tinge of mystery to the Roopund trek.

As you set out on the trek, you will encounter verdant green meadows or ‘Bugyals’, soaring snow-clad peaks, and lush dense forests. You can feast your eyes on the magnificent breathtaking views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti as you make your way to Roopkund lake. Being one of the most famous sites for trekking in the Garhwal region, it is frequented by people from all across the world.

The starting point for this trek is Lohajung. Replete with rich biodiversity and picturesque surroundings, you can witness nature in its purest form here. It is a little difficult to traverse the curvy and winding roads which steadily gain altitude, but it will lead to an amazing feeling of accomplishment. After walking for around 6 km,  you will reach a peaceful village in the district of Garhwal, called Kulling. Filled with natural beauty, this village offers a narrow concrete plain, cutting through houses and fields. While descending down the village and crossing the bed of Neel Ganga, you will come across a moderately steep road covered with a forest of rhododendrons and oak, that connects to the Didna village, situated at an altitude of 8000 ft.

The gorgeous village of Ali Bugyal is the next hamlet you will visit, which is one of the highest inhabited locations in the country.There are two trails from here – you can take either the right side of the trail or the left one. The trail on the right side is slightly ascending, and the trail on the left side is of a steeper nature. However, both sides lead to the same destination.

Moving ahead from here, the next location is Ghora Lutani. You will enjoy gorgeous scenic views as you trek upwards to reach your final destination. A steep altitude gain of around 12,500 ft to 14,500 ft, the long continuous walk, coupled with the high altitude of this location, will challenge you and demand a lot from you. Also, the effect of high altitude can make breathing difficult, but the amazing vista surrounding you will be there to inspire and rekindle the fun of trekking. After reaching the campsite, you can wrap up for the day and retire to relax for the night.

Next day, as you walk towards Bhagwabasa, the terrain seems to look rough and not so easy to traverse. Situated at around 14000 ft above the sea level, the road will take you across Kalyuvinayak temple, which is further 200 ft higher. It is suggested to walk slowly and carefully as the air gets thinner and the quantity of oxygen decreases.

The gift that awaits you at such a height is a look at the final trekking destination, Roopkund. With shining and sparkling Trishul on one side and bell-shaped Nandagunti on the other, the view is simply magnificent and enchanting. It is surely the highest point on the trek with an altitude of more than 16000 ft. Though the path is not that difficult to climb, even the 4 km walk can pull out every ounce of energy that you have and make you feel tired.  After covering the hard and steep terrain, a lot of photographic opportunities will be waiting for you at the Nanda Devi temple. You cannot afford to miss this chance of capturing some warm memories with near and dear ones.

Before moving further, you can choose to acclimatise and rest for a day like most of the hikers do. Rest well before you start the reverse journey and celebrate the joy of enduring the perils involved in the trekking expedition to Roopkund. This trek requires a whole lot of determination and courage, however, sheer exhilaration and the thrill involved in reaching Roopkund will become your motivation to complete this trek.

The best time to do this trek is between May-June and between August – September. If you choose to go in May/June, you might not be able to see the skeletons as the lake will be thawed, but on the bright side, the verdant bugyals will take your breath away. However, if you choose to go after the monsoons, the lake will, in all probability, be frozen at the end of September, and you will be able to see why the Roopkund lake has an air of mystery surrounding it.

The ultimate destination for party-lovers and youngsters, Bangalore is fast becoming an important tourist destination in India. The city is also known for being the nation’s information technology hub, in addition to housing superpowers like ISRO. The capital of Karnataka is known for its beautiful climate, famous eating joints and night clubs. The city also offers the finest cuisines and street food which is ideal for spending some time here. While touring the city, don’t forget to visit Cubbon Park, Vidhan Souda and Brigade Road, among a host of other important places. Bangalore is the most ideal place for trekking, as it offers a range of suitable landscapes and a favourable weather to carry out this activity. There are four locations which offer you the best experience and one must not miss trekking in these few places while on a trip to Bangalore.

One of the best opportunities for trekking is Tadiandamol Trek. The trek takes people to the lofty and magnanimous Western Ghat. It takes place in Coorg, a place in Karnataka. As people climb higher up the mountains, they will be able to see a transition in the vegetation, from dense and impenetrable jungles to grasslands. The place also happens to be the home to a rich variety of fauna. As people traverse through the mountains, they will also encounter many pilgrimage sites and waterfalls on their way. The program offers pick up and drop from and to the hotel. The itinerary involves a visit to the Chelavara Falls and ultimately to the trekking site. Tourists will be served lunch during the course of their activity. They will also be offered a beautiful dinner alongside a warm bonfire. The tour also comprises of activities like river rafting. People can go to pilgrimage sites like Bhagamandala also. However, before leaving for the trek, please ensure that the shoes are sturdy and have a good grip. Adequate water is also a must to keep oneself hydrated during the entire journey.

Another exciting tour across the lofty mountains is offered by Kumara Parvatha Trek. It promises to be challenging yet a memorable activity. A three-day trip, the trek starts from the mountain summit, known as Pushpagiri. It is known to be one of the most challenging terrains in South India. The trek starts soon after a coach picks all the tourists up from Bangalore and drives them to a small town near the base of the hill. The first stage of the trek takes people through an easily-negotiable path leading to Battar Mane. Then the next stage of the trek to Kumara Parthava begins. It is after crossing Kallu Mantapa that you encounter the most difficult part of the trek. With steep climbs and a difficult terrain, the trek becomes a real challenge. Trekkers are supposed to ascend and descend halfway down the terrain on the same day. Supplemented with a pleasing and filling lunch and dinner meal, the trek will be a great experience for everyone.

For a short but memorable trek, Kuntibetta Trek is ideal. The trekking takes place on Pandavapura, a hill where, legend has it, the Pandavas resided after their exile from Indraprastha. The beauty of the hill is enhanced by a lake that hides behind the hill, making the entire location very beautiful and picturesque. The trek may be a short one, but it does not guarantee that people won’t find hurdles. There are places where the terrain becomes especially difficult to cross. But then, that is the real fun of trekking – facing challenges. For people who desire to be a part of this trek, they will first have to pass a fitness test, since the climb is quite challenging. For the purpose of the trek, there are some essential things that everyone show carry – a water bottle and good quality shoes. People may also be subject to scorching sunlight, hence, carry goggles and sunscreens. A coach will carry the guests to the site of the trek. As one starts the trek, the beautiful view all around is sure to impress them. The lake at the summit of the hill makes the place look all the more beautiful. People will also encounter many bushy patches on the way and they will have to crawl through it. This just increases the fun of trekking here. Upon reaching the destination, relax and have a great time admiring the view from the top.

One of the most popular locations in the outskirts of Bangalore is Ramanagara. The place is known for being the shooting site of the legendary movie Sholay. It is for this reason that the place attracts tourists in great numbers. The place is filled with hills which gives it a beautiful scenic view. It is, indeed, an ideal destination for people who love trekking. Another interesting fact about the area is that when viewed from a particular angle, the hills in this region are said to resemble some Hindu Gods. Thus, this place is religiously very significant and sees a lot of devotees throughout the year. Ramanagara is also an ideal location for bird-watching, as one can find countless species of birds here, like Egyptian and Indian vultures. So as people trek, they can also watch out for some of the most amazing bird species that they might have seen. Leopards and bears can also be easily spotted in the hills.

Interestingly, many of the cliffs in this area have been named after the characters of the film Sholay. So it makes the experience all the more enjoyable. The climb isn’t particularly very treacherous, but people must watch out for some challenges on the way. It is important that guests carry water with them to keep themselves hydrated. They should also carry sun glasses and sun screen to protect themselves from the harsh sunlight. Good quality trekking shoes are a prerequisite for any trekking expedition. In order to do the activity, you need to be physically fit. So ensure that you don’t have any breathing problems. A quick warm up before embarking on the trek is recommended as it warms the body and preps it for physical activity.

These four are some of the best places for trekking in Bangalore. Tourists are at the leisure to choose from whichever trek or try out all of the sites, in case people are very passionate about the sport. It is indeed one of the best ways to spend a holiday in Bangalore.

Vacation season is the most favourite season of all, especially for children. Excitement entraps and intrigues your mind whenever vacations knock on your door. And it seems that the interesting phase of getting excited has arrived with the two most favourable months to visit almost any place in India, February and March! So get ready to embark on a pan India journey, and to have the most exhilarating experience of visiting some of the most sought-after tourist attractions in the country.

 

Being one of the most visited tourist spots, Delhi offers a plethora of activities for the entertainment of the tourists. Among several activities to do near Delhi, skydiving is one of the most thrilling experiences that you can have. There are three kinds of sky jumps, and Tandem jump is the safest of them all. For those who have any second thoughts about the activity’s safety, there is no need to be worried. There will be experienced instructors to assist them and also, the equipment will be checked thoroughly before use. Being suspended in mid-air at 10,000 feet above ground level and looking down at the earth below will be an experience in itself. Challenge your inner fear and do not let the fun go by!

With a range of activities available to do in Gurgaon, there is no reason to compromise with the fun expected by every travel connoisseur. For all those adventure seekers, Paramotoring is a unique activity to try. The thrill of flying in the sky offers a sudden gush of blood that heightens up the energy and makes one scream for more. It is an excellent choice to quench the thirst and craze for flying and the skies.

For those who wish to have some fun away from boring city life, there are many super exciting things to do in Rishikesh. The best adventure of all has to be bungee jumping in Rishikesh. With experienced instructors and well-maintained equipment, safety concerns should be kept at bay. So, get ready to experience a unique combination of fear, excitement, thrill and wonder. Tourists can also try camping in Rishikesh. Camping around thick Sal forest can surprise the tourists with a vast amount of greenery that its landscape beholds. In addition, it offers an exciting river rafting opportunity. With proper safety equipment and some training, grab the chance to embark on such an adventurous journey that allows you to marvel at the power that nature holds over man.

 

 

 

Moving on from the Yoga Capital of the World to the Pink City, there is a range of things to do for travellers. A hot air balloon ride in Jaipur is one of the best ways to indulge in the beauty and historicity of the city. Apart from offering a bird’s eye view of the beautiful palaces and lakes of the Pink City, it also provides an opportunity to behold these fantastic sights and capture them in the camera to cherish later.

Maharashtra offers a multitude of activities that promises tourists a mesmerising experience. Kundalika River, one of the fastest flowing rivers in the state, offers thrill and excitement to adventure seekers, which is worth experiencing.

For those who have a fascination for flying, there is no better activity than paragliding. To imagine oneself flying with a pair of wings might sound unreal, but paragliding at Kamshet can provide a real-life experience of soaring high in the sky. With a set of certified pilots and flying enthusiasts, embark on an exciting experience and live the old dream of humankind, which is to fly like a bird without any age restrictions.

In addition, tourists can go for a hot balloon ride at Lonavala. Feel the freshness of the cool breeze and witness the picturesque beauty of the place, filled with mountains, waterfalls, forests and greenery, from a breath-taking height.

When it comes to tourism, Goa is one of the most preferred destinations by tourists from across the world. Known for its diverse and attractive water sports activities, it has a lot of exciting surprises to offer to the tourists. Scuba diving is an activity enjoyed by both elders and children equally.

For a quick glimpse of Goa, tourists can also try a hot air balloon ride. Apart from allowing you to experience an uplifting sensation, it also provides a great way to see more of the lush Goan countryside.

Gearing up for the microlight flight!

Give flight to your fantasy and experience the feeling of steering the plane across the limitless skies.
With an excellent mix of attractive sights and entertaining activities, Bangalore is an abode of dreamers. Among a plethora of things to do in the city, microlight flying in Bangalore is the most popular one. Soaring high above in the sky at around 4000 ft is a delightful experience. Irrespective of any age limit, the activity can be enjoyed by people
of all ages. Tourists can indulge in it anytime between 6:30 in the morning to 9.30 in the evening.

Multiple options for enjoyment and fun await the travelers heading from IT city to a great holiday adventure site, Port Blair. Water sports activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea diving and ocean walks are popular for offering an opportunity to dive deep into the water. Scuba diving is one of the most-sought- after activities to do in the area. Apart from admiring the rich coral diversity that adorns the waters, tourists can explore an underwater world full of fascinating formations of coral reefs, serenity and peace. With the help of the training given by certified instructors, enjoy this activity and let your fear vanish into thin air.

Enhance the excitement of your trip with a wide range of options available in the twin months of February and March and make your visit a memorable one.

Trekking in India is an experience only accorded to the luckiest of travellers. It is an exciting way to combine Ecotourism and Adventure Sports to add value to your experience. It challenges you and pushes the best in you to the fore so you always end up learning a few things about yourself by the end of each trek; be it easy, moderate or difficult.

India is home to a lot of accomplished travellers who have made the impossible possible. However, they all had to begin somewhere. So, if you are a beginner who is looking for a credible compilation of solid advice that ensures a safe, exciting and environment-friendly travel, read on!

 

• Budgeting
  The first step towards going on a trek that makes for memories of a lifetime, and definitely begins your long tryst with adventure in India, is to have a budget. Allocating a budget to a trek is now easier than ever. If you plan to avail the services of a travel agency (which is recommended for a beginner), you can easily look up the fixed rates for different treks they offer in a certain region. A few travel companies also give you the option of making the payment in monthly instalments. So, save up because money is no excuse to miss out on an opportunity of a lifetime!   

• Research
  A very, very important point is to do a thorough research about the trek you’re going to take. Reading up on blogs such as these will be of great help. Contacting the agency is another way to gain some insight. You can also get in touch with some of your friends who have relevant experience.
  
  Your primary research should be based on where you’re going. This entails having information on the kind of region you’re headed to; its climate, flora and fauna, places to visit, local culture, etc. You’re secondary research should be based on how you’re going to do this. You should read detailed itineraries and decide whether it’s something you’re ready for or not. Your tertiary research should be based on what you’re going to need for doing the trek – this includes having knowledge about all the essentials, like water bottles and food items, trekking gear and other accessories, and medical aid that you will need while on the trek.

• Easy Trek
  The excitement to take on tough challenges and shoot that adrenaline level through the roof can be exhilarating. It is important to understand that trekking requires significant training and clarity of thought and judgement to tackle adverse conditions at such high altitudes without compromising your own safety.
  
  So, for your first time ever, choose an easy trek. Choose a trek you can imagine yourself completing without draining yourself of motivation. Even though all treks can be tiring, easy or moderate treks are less dangerous and great stepping stones for bigger accomplishments in near future.

  

  
  How To: Websites enlist all treks and classify them on a grading scale that has at least three scales– Easy>Moderate>Difficult. Look for this information and choose wisely.

• Scheduling
  Scheduling is an important step for having a safe and exciting experience. Contact the guides and the trek operators in advance to know the detailed itinerary. Get in touch with other people who are going with you prior to embarking on the trek. Inform family and friends about your plans so if you need some immediate assistance, they can be called up. Remember, caution is better than cure.   

• Fitness/Training
  On the same note, some amount of training prior to the actual trek needs to be taken in order to both build mental and physical stamina and get some motivation.
  a) Try walking at least 3 km everyday for three weeks up to the final day. Try completing one km in 20 minutes.
  b) Jog for about 1-2 km everyday for three weeks up to the final day.
  c) Try doing some yoga to improve breathing. This will help you to handle high altitudes.
  d) You should try exercising your shoulder and back so you don’t find it difficult to carry your bag on the back and trek for long distances.
  e) You should not smoke or drink while trekking. So, if you’re someone who smokes or drinks try steadily reducing it and then stopping it in the build up to the final day.
  

• Packing
  Here is a list of things you might need. 

  Trekking Gear:
  Waterproof and well-broken shoes
  Waterproof backpack
  Raincoat
  Down jacket
  Woollens: Sweater, Pants, Shirt/T-shirt, Socks, Gloves
  Cotton: Shirt/T-shirt, Underwear
  Sunglasses and Hats

   

  Other Accessories:
  Pocket Knife
  Ready made energy food (protein bars and other snacks)
  Flashlights with extra battery
  Water bottle
  
  Your guide/trek operator will provide you with food, water and camps for overnight stay.

• Advice
  a) It’s not a race. Try making the best of your experience instead of competing with others. Do not overly exert yourself. One campsite to another, the journey is far more important than the destination.
  
  b) Carry medical aid. A first aid box and medicines that relieve altitude sickness are important. It is advised that you take a course of medicines before you go to high altitudes. Seek medical advice beforehand both from experienced friends as well as the trek operators.
  
  c) Wear layers of clothes to help avoid the biting cold.
  d) Make sure you have sufficient water supplies on you. And don’t forget to carry purifying tablets. You can suck on candies to reduce thirst.
  
  e) Do NOT litter. Abide strictly by the environment-conservative rules of eco-tourism. Do not trouble the locals or disrupt their routines or destroy their treasured places of stay.

 

Sure, trekking takes strength and a resolute mind, but it’s a fun thing to do. Proper training and guidance ensure you have a thrilling experience as you conquer the snow-clad mountains!

The Stok Kangri trek is a dream for many of us, for avid travelers and beginners alike. For the former, it’s their most cherished achievement and for the latter, it’s a spot high up on their to-do list. So, if you’re someone who is open to adding a deserving title on their list of travel goals in 2018, this one is for you.  

Trekking In Ladakh

Ladakh is home to the most exotic valleys, glacial lakes glistening ice-solid in the sunlight, most splendid Himalayan peaks, and breathtaking gorges; and all of it is serene due to the sparse population. Trekking in Ladakh is definitely something to write home about.

Don’t just enjoy, explore.

Why just visit a place? Stok Kangri Expedition gives you an opportunity to actively explore the area and immerse culturally as you interact with the locals and roam around on the very first day. Responsible tourism is not just indulging, but engaging with the wonderful world around you. Your takeaway from a trekking experience should not just be the achievement of scaling a certain height but also deeply appreciating the cultural, local and environmental significance and respecting it.

Highlights

1. Set up tents at Chang Ma at an altitude of 13,087 ft!
2. Witness the Orion arm of the Milky Way Galaxy with millions of twinkling stars as is clearly visible from Mankorma.
3. Be ready to walk on all fours as you tread the southern face of the mountain which has an approximately 75 degree gradient slope.
4. Let yourself loose as you behold the brilliant views of Zanskar valley and Karakoram mountains
5. Camping on the lush green meadows alongside a brimming water body is the perfect refuge.

A lot has been said about the difficulty level of Stok Kangri all over. First-time trekkers are not encouraged to do this. And even experienced trekkers are bound to face some difficulty in carrying this trek out. But that is no excuse to deny yourself the joy of this life-changing experience. If anything, that should encourage you to prepare and take this challenge headlong. However, there are few things that you could keep in mind to ensure a great time.

Acclimatization and AMS
It is essential that you spend a few days in Leh before you begin the trek. This is done to acclimatize to the increase in altitude after arriving. If you have not done a high altitude trek before, you mustn’t attempt Stok Kangri(20,500 ft) because the rapid increase in altitude on this trek could trigger AMS and make it impossible for you to reach the summit.
In order to avoid AMS, make sure you’re on a DIAMOX course before you leave for the trek.  This will prevent clouding of judgement due to altitude as you near the summit.

Stok Kangri trek is not just a trek. It is an experience that will change the way you go through life after it. Make sure you’re well prepared, then nothing can really stop you from emerging triumphant.

 

When it comes to road trips, the ‘Land of High Passes’ or Leh-Ladakh is the place to be! Extending from the Kunlun mountain range to the Great Himalayas to the south, the mystical region of Leh-Ladakh features jaw-dropping landscapes as far as your eye can go. If you still have not experienced the Delhi-Manali- Leh road trip, you are missing out an absolutely enchanting journey!

So without any doubt, a bike trip to the challenging mountainscape of Leh-Ladakh tops the bucket list of every passionate biker. Having said that, conquering the rebellious mountainous terrain of Leh-Ladakh is not every biker’s cup of tea! Especially on your way to Leh, you may come across extreme, unruly roads but the spectacular views along the ride, make up for all the pain gone through. However, to better tackle the rugged landscape of this Himalayan wonderland, here’s your Leh-Ladakh bike trip guide to make your journey thrilling and safe!

Best Time to Explore Leh-Ladakh on a Bike Trip
The months of June to September is the best time for a road trip to Leh-Ladakh as the snow melts away by this time leaving the mountain passes clear and safe for travel.

Best Route Options for Leh-Ladakh Two-Way Bike Trip
Consider New Delhi as a base to start your bike trip to Leh-Ladakh. Manali to Leh, and Srinagar to Leh, are the two prime routes offering decent traversable roads and gorgeous landscapes along the way. Here are the details of the two routes:
Route 1: Delhi → Manali → Sarchu → Pangi → Leh → Khardung La → Nubra → Kargil →
Srinagar → Delhi
Approximate Distance: 3,649 kilometers

Route 2: Delhi → Jalandhar → Jammu → Srinagar → Kargil → Leh → Karu → Sarchu → Manali
→ Delhi
Approximate Distance: 2,295 kilometers

Know more about the Dream Ride Motor Bike Expedition to Ladakh.

Places to travel through in Leh-Ladakh
If you are passionate about offbeat traveling, then a bike trip to Leh-Ladakh is something that you need to experience. As you begin your expedition from the concrete jungles to the valley of the gods, feel the air turning nippy and crisp with every kilometer you tread. Ride through high-altitude passes, and take on the extreme twists and turns, to reach this Himalayan refuge, that conjures up an ethereal vision with lofty, snow-draped peaks, plummeting valleys, and quaint monasteries. Here are the prime places to bike your way through in Leh-Ladakh:

Zanskar Valley– The best thing about Zanskar Valley is its remoteness. Tucked in one corner of Ladakh between two alpine lakes, conquering the treacherous trails of this valley is no child’s play! Ride your way through an impressively rugged terrain under the appeasing hues of the blue skies taking in the splendour of the sweeping landscapes, dreamy cave monasteries and settlements of this Trans-Himalayan region.

Khardung La Pass– Imagine freewheeling on the world’s highest road pass taking in the stunning scenery that goes all the way down from the snow-laden terrain to the emerald-green oasis of Upper Leh! Set at a vertigo-inducing altitude of 18,379 feet, Khardung La Pass is about 40 kilometers away from Leh. It is considered one of India’s most dangerous motorable roads that could test the patience of even the most seasoned bikers! A ride along the ‘Pass of Lower Castle’ is a must-try when you are here.

Pangong Lake– Perched impressively on the Changtang plateau in eastern Ladakh, the 134 kilometers long pristine blue beauty will more than rejuvenate your tired body and mind, making it well worth the long ride up! The world’s highest saltwater lake, the very first glimpse of this brackish lake will make you fall in love with it! An idyllic spot to stretch your legs after along bike ride, spend some time in solitude by the Pangong Lake and enjoy the captivating beauty of the surroundings. Graced by the snowy mountains, the golden sun rays glistening on the lake against the backdrop of vivid twirls of minerals in a starkly arid setting, the Pangong Lake creates a surreal vision for both the eyes and soul.

Magnetic Hill- As they say, ‘nature works in mysterious ways’! The magical stretch of Magnetic Hill invites bikers to be a part of a mystifying experience. At 14,000 feet, you would not be able to figure out if it is the reverse gravity at play or the case of an optical illusion. Boggle your mind by riding on this amazing stretch that works mysteriously – pulling vehicles uphill, defying gravity.

Nubra Valley– Once you land in this picturesque refuge, you will be struck by its utter tranquility and natural magnificence! An austerely gorgeous tuft of land lying in far-flung isolation, find your heart and soul soar with delight as you cruise through this stunning valley. Let your eyes absorb the immense beauty of this valley ornamented by quaint monasteries, vivid orchards, green oasis villages, and the unusual sight of Bactrian camels in a thrillingly stark, arid-white setting.

Other than these beatific locales, you can take a halt at other attractions as the Leh Palace, Stok Palace, Shanti Stupa, Tsemo Fort, Dha and Hanu, Old Town, Tiger Hill, Drang-Drung Glacier, Drass Valley, among others, depending on the duration of your trip.

You may have been to the Pink City several times before and seen all that the city has to offer. But going on a hot air balloon is enthralling in its uniqueness – feeling the crisp air on your face, taking in the immaculate view of monuments and forts, is an experience you will never forget.  As you glide over local villages on the outskirts of the city, the ride may take you very close to the undulating Aravalli, so close that you get a whiff of the rugged earth!

Hot Air Ballooning is now a growing trend in India, especially among the youth. However, if you are travelling with children, hot air balloon rides are actually a great option to bond over, as ballooning is a calm experience unlike a helicopter ride or cliff jumping. Families are increasingly taking such trips that are easy on children and make parents happy as well. The trip is generally conducted in a group of four to eight people travelling in baskets that are divided into compartments and attached to the hot air balloon.

Hot air balloon rides in Jaipur are held in the morning and evening hours when the wind is most stable. The morning flights start between 5:45 AM and 6:45 AM while evening flights are timed between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM, except for summers when sweltering heat interrupts favorable winds for smooth sailing.

Read on to know why a hot air balloon ride in Jaipur must feature in your to-do list.

The quiet and the beauty

As you see the earth fades away and the horizon becomes clear, immerse yourself in the quiet, far from the madding crowd on the ground. Soak yourself in the serenity and peace as the cool breeze brushes against your skin. You can certainly imagine the riveting view of a sunrise or a sunset while staying suspended high above the ground.

Mesmerizing sights from above

Most of us enjoy the views while flying in an airplane. In that case, a balloon’s-eye view should definitely leave you awestruck. As you move smoothly over Samode Bagh and Palace, Amber Fort and Maota Lake, Shiv Vilas, Jal Mahal, Madhogarh Fort, or Delhi Road, take a closer look at the monuments. Many of these are not accessible, while interesting features of others can be seen from above, which when viewed at ground level, tend to elude your peering eyes. Seize the opportunity to find out a missed minaret or simply feast your eyes by looking at the mundane from unusual angles.

Superior services and international standards followed

If you enjoy being treated like a royal family member in Rajasthan, opt for this ride. The organizers offer advance and real-time updates about your trip. They also ensure you are received at your lodgings at the beginning of the trip and dropped after your ride. The equipment and gears are largely imported while pilots who will guide the balloon throughout the ride are well-versed with the prevalent practices. The operators go that extra mile to make you feel comfortable. If you are afraid of heights (the flight can take you as high as five thousand feet in the air), the safety briefing held before the flight will alleviate your fears.

Get to know the locals and their culture

As you sail through the settlements on the outskirts of the city in the hot air balloon, experience the vibrant local culture that mostly remains off-limits to the regular tourists. The guides on-board, rich in their knowledge of the local area and its people, explain the nitty-gritty of their life, traditions, and cultures. Keep aside three to four hours for a complete experience, of which the in-air time will be about one hour. Believe us when we say that you simply cannot miss this chance of enriching yourself!

Book your hot air balloon trip in Jaipur and create your very own experience to be cherished forever.

Is winter the right season for trekking in the Himalayas? Of course it is! The Himalayan slopes turn magical as it begins to snow.

As the temperatures plummet below zero degrees and the sun rays breathe life into icy terrains for increasingly shorter duration, trekking can be a daunting task. But the rewards of traversing through snow are immense – the shroud of white covering trees and meadows meeting the clear blue sky is a treat to the eyes. You will be surprised to see how the weather changes from sunny to overcast in the blink of an eye – it begins to snow in no time. Listen carefully if you are inside a tent when it is snowing – you might mistake snowfall for raindrops at times.

Snow treks are little more challenging than normal treks because it involves more equipment to allow smooth movement. Common accessories like waterproof gloves, woolen socks, and scarves are a must along with specialised gears such as micro spikes, trekking poles, ice pick and gaiters that you learn to use during the trek. These gears are especially designed to ease your walk through both light and deep snow as well as ice sheets of various densities.

Most of the winter treks in India include camping for night halts. You will not forget the surreal experience of taking a nap inside your sleeping bag laid on the snow. Nor will you forget the efforts made to drag your legs out of fresh, loose snow or doing a ‘Penguin walk.’ A typical style of walking resembling that of Penguins, this requires sturdy moves without lifting your leg much from the ground. This prevents tripping and falling on hard ice.

The best part of winter treks in snow is that it acquaints you to a new you! And more often than not, a good one, that you can take pride in. All successful and memorable snow treks are result of good team work; you make friends in the face of adversities and as is said, a friend in need is a friend indeed!

Snow treks in Himalayas will continue to beckon the adventure enthusiast in you. With its magnificent scenic beauty and a host of sporting options such as sledging, skiing, skating, snowboarding, and ice climbing, the experience will be unparalleled.

Here are some of the best winter treks in India.

Brahma Tal Trek

Brahma Tal stands as an exception when most of the popular trails of snow trekking in India are closed. As you wade through waist-deep snow on the trail rising steadily to the lake, take some time out for the fantastic view of the surrounding mountains – Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti being the most prominent of all. Look around you to see the blob of colours indicating your fellow trekkers amid the white carpet of snow covering the forests and the meadows. Here’s a photo story of the ever beautiful Brahma Tal! Know more about Brahma Tal Trek!

Winter Kuari Pass Trek

This trek takes you close to the highest mountain peak in India, Nanda Devi. So close that you can actually see the entire south west flank of the mountain, perhaps one of the rarest full flank views of any mountain in the world. Kuari Pass snow trek is ideal for fit beginners as well as experienced trekkers and passes through forests of oak and rhododendrons, covered in snow. The campsites are equally spectacular; the Khullara campsite has Mt. Dronagiri in the background while the Padiyar campsite is flanked by snow-capped pine trees. Know more about Winter Kuari Pass Trek!

Chadar Frozen River Trek

As the name chadar (meaning sheet) suggests, the trek takes you through the deep and icy gorges of Ladakh formed by the Zanskar River that freezes every winter. Revel in the sun rays, shining out of an azure sky, that reach the trail only around mid-day. Listen carefully to the sound the thick and thin layers make to watch out for thin ice layers and decide on where to step. The caves, where locals stay during their travel in winters, are an added attraction as much as the frozen waterfall and the elusive snow leopard conspicuous by their pug marks. Know more about Chadar Frozen River Trek!

Kedarkantha Trek

When most of the snow treks in India draw to a close, Kedarkantha flaunts snow until as late as April. From the Kedarkantha base camp, you get an unparalleled 360 degree view of the mountains. This trek also offers the prettiest of campsites, set on the edge of pine forests or amid snow-sheeted meadows as well as a refreshingly scenic drive passing through Mussoorie, Nowgaon, Purola, Mori and Naitwar. Know more about Kedarkantha Trek!

Prashar Lake Trek

If you have only a weekend at your disposal, opt for this trek in Himachal Pradesh. The trail passes through forests, rivulets and local villages, and offers a wonderful view of Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Kinnaur mountain ranges. It is one of those rare treks that bring to you a unique mix of natural beauty and Himachali culture. Know more about Prashar Lake Trek!

So, winter is here. Have you booked your trek yet?