Thursday, December 31, 2009

Machu Picchu - Peru

Machu Picchu

Place of Peace and Power

Machu Picchu is the most intriguing destinations on the planet ( one of the seven wonders of the world ) situated in Peru, South America.
Machu Picchu , is the Lost City of the Incas, located on 8000 ft above sea level and nestled on the highest peak of the Andes Mountains. This ‘Sacred Valley’ is famous for its spectacular views and photographic scenaries, a place of unforgettable sunrises and magical moonlit nights This is one of the world's archaeological jewels and South America's major travel destinations. This is situated in the middle of tropical mountain forest, in an extraordinarily beautiful setting, and was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, a professor from Yale. This Lost City is famous for the Inca architecture and is fascinating both for its history and for the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Prepare the soul, sharpen the senses, forget for some minutes, the small, transcendental problems of our lives, of modern…man…And take a trip to Machu Picchu, a trip to the serenity of the soul, where we feel our fragility…

Location:
Machu Picchu stands 2,430 m above sea-level and located high in the Andes Mountains in modern Peru, South America. It lies 43 miles northwest of Cuzco at the top of a ridge, hiding it from the Urabamba gorge below. Its mountain peaks, at around 6,270 meters above sea level,

Best months : May to September

May is the prettiest month (the dense, subtropical mountain forests are exceptionally green) while August is the best all around month. The least desirable period is from October to April, the rainy season.

Route Map:<
View Larger Map
Getting There:

There are a variety of ways to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco. These include
Fly Away:
Nearly all tourists begin their adventure by flying from Lima to the city of Cuzco (1 hour 15 minutes). They then stay overnight in Cuzco before embarking on their journey to Machu Picchu.
On Tracks: A three and a half hour train journey from Cusco will take you to the colourful Machu Picchu Town. There you will board a bus for the 30 minute drive up the mountain to Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge and the ruins. You then transfer to a bus that zig-zags up a steep 2,000 foot high mountain slope to reach the Machu Picchu site (30 minutes).
By Hiking:
You can also hike from the Cuzco area to Machu Picchu on a network of ancient paths collectively named the Inca (or Inka) Trail. The journey takes 2 to 10 days, depending on your speed and choice of paths.
By Helicopter:
There is service between Cuzco and Aqua Calientes (near Machu Picchu).
On Wheels: By road to Ollantaytambo, then by train to Machu Picchu Town. Allow three hours. Train service is provided by PeruRail. Once in Machu picchu Town a regular bus service operates between Machu Picchu Town and the Inca ruins where Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is located. Allow 20 minutes
Please note that there are no taxis from Machu Picchu Town to the Machu Picchu Citadel, the only form of transportation is on public buses.

Tourist information

Daily visiting hours: 6.00am to 5.30pm

The entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are only sold at the INC (National Institute of Culture) office in Aguas Caliente town. Please note that the INC only accepts local currency. Since 2005, night visits to the Machu Picchu Citadel are no longer permitted.

Prime Attractions:
Machu Picchu :

Machu Picchu is a place of unforgettable sunrises and magical moonlit nights - located at the top of Aguas Calientes, in the heart of the valley of the Incas. Enjoy the remains of the ancient culture of this unique place, considered part of

Peru

's and the world's cultural heritage..The ruins are located in a lush jungle and are believed to have been built in the mid-15th century by Inca Pachacutec.
The Citadel

It has a magnificent natural scenery of a historic sanctuary, recognised as a Cultural and Natural Patrimony of the World. The construction was generally in stone and the roofs were built of tree trunks and thatched with ichu or straw. The walls lean slightly inward to protect against earthquakes. The breathtaking views from this mountaintop citadel and its well-preserved ruins are a photographer's dream.

Intipuncu – Sun Gate
Located at 2,600m above sea level,. The climb from the Citadel to Intipunco has great views and photo opportunities

Puente Inca – Inca Bridge Bridge is constructed over the Urubamba River. This bridge is a masterpiece of engineering, as it is carved out of the protruding rocks embedded in the mountainside, which served as a protection of the sacred citadel.

Temple of the Moon
The magnificent and extraordinary artistic skill of the Incas is really amazing. The Moon Temple is one more instance of their incredibly sophisticated constructions. Although the site is really small, it amazes one with the perfection of its chisel work.
Funerary Rock Hut

One of the most photogenic spots at Machu Picchu can be experienced by hiking to the Funerary Rock Hut. Believed to be the place where Incan nobility were mummified, this vantage point offers a dramatic view of the whole complex.

Royal Tomb,
is the place where Incan Kings were mummified. . This cave-like area of Machu Picchu contains ceremonial niches. Inside the Royal Tomb , you can see numerous mummy excavations. Of more than 100 skeletal remains discovered here, 80% were women. This fact, among others, leads many historians to surmise that the area was inhabited primarily by high priests and chosen women.

Sacred Plaza

The view from Machu Picchu's Sacred Plaza makes one appreciate the superb craftmenship of the Inca. Surrounding the plaza are the most important buildings of the city. The Principal Temple is an example of excellent Inca stonemasonry, with its large stone blocks polished smooth and joined perfectly.

Central Plaza

Descending from the back of Sacred Plaza is the Central Plaza, a large grassy field that separates the Sacred Plaza and Intiwatana

Intiwatana

known as the "hitching post of the sun" is a carved rock pillar whose four corners are oriented toward the four cardinal points. The Inca wereaccomplished astronomers, and used the angles of the pillar to predict the solstices.

Sacred Rock:
Before a village could be erected, a sacred stone must be dedicated to the site. The Sacred Stone of Machu Picchu sits at the base of Huayna Picchu (little peak), from where you can take a one-hour climb to the top for another excellent view of the entire valley

Temple of the Condor

is a breathtaking example of Inca stonemasonry. A natural rock formation began to take shape millions of years ago and the Inca skillfully shaped the rock into the outspread wings of a condor in flight. Under the temple is a small cave that contained a mummy. A prison complex stands directly behind the temple, and is comprised of human-sized niches and an underground maze of dungeons.

Inca Trail

is one of the world’s most famous hiking trails. Starting from the Sacred Valley of the Urubamba River and ending at the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu, the 45km trail takes three to five days to complete. The trail itself winds through a combination of high altitude mountain ranges (the Andes) and dense subtropical forest.

Inca Trail Map

Select a location and virtually travel to the popular and world famous Inca Trail. The trail will take you to Machu Picchu where you will find stunning views of the ancient village abandoned by the Incan's in the 17th century.

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel located adjacent to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu and the best hotel by which to explore the beautiful surrounding area. Machu Picchu is a sacred and magical place of spectacular sunrises and mystical moonlit nights. This lodge is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the shadow of the Lost City.

Machu Picchu - Old Mountain
This mountain is located towards the south of the Citadel. A slow climb takes approximately three hours and once you reach the top, you will enjoy spectacular views. Not many visitors climb this peak (3,000 meters above sea level).

Putucusi
This is the mountain directly facing the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, name means 'Happy Mountain'. It has an altitude of 2,400 metres above sea level, and is sometimes also known as the 'Orange Half' mountain.

This hike takes about two and a half hours from the base of the mountain,. Once at the peak, you will be rewarded with a special view of Machu Picchu.

Thermal Baths
The town of Aguas Calientes, has hot springs and is just a 15 minute walk up the Pachacutec Avenue from the town's main square. These are natural, underground, hot sulphur springs, which bubble up from the rocky ground at varying temperatures and are well known for their medicinal properties.

MANDOR WATERFALLS
Visiting Mandor Waterfall is an unforgettable adventure. It is an area of lush forest surrounding the town of Machu Picchu.
Fountain
This stream of water flowing from step to step is one of the more tranquil spots in Machu Picchu. Just what the pools of water were used for is not exactly known. They could have been ceremonial baths. The first three fountains are very well decorated which may suggest a more religious purpose

The Palace:

Where the king lived is one of the more house-like dwellings in the ruins and has the only private bathroom in the kingdom.

Temple of the Sun:

One of the most important parts of the ruins of Machu Picchu, the Sun Temple is where religious ceremonies took place and well worth a visit.

The Guard House:

This is where the classic photo of Machu Picchu is taken. Most of the post-card views are from this vantage point and it is a good place to see the “face” in the rocks behind the ruins.

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is set in the Andes Mountains at an altitude of around 12,500 feet, and as such, earns the title of highest navigable lake in the world. Also it is the largest lake in South America in terms of volume, and is sometimes used by the Bolivian Naval Force for naval exercises.

Hotels and Resorts:

As Machu Picchu becomes more and more of a popular destination, it is important to try and make your arrangements as far in advance as you can. Some of the best hotels are

· Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

· Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel

· Hostal Presidente

· Gringo Bills

· La Cabana Hostal

· Hostal Machu Picchu

· Hostal Pachacuteq

· Hostal Continental

· Jardin Real Hotel

· Rupa Wasi Eco Lodge

Restaurants to Eat

· Chez Maggy

· Indio Feliz

· Pueblo Viejo

· Toto's House

Nearby Attractions:

Amazon , Trujillo and Chan Chan , Sacred Vally of the Incas , Arequipa and Colca canyon , Titicaca Lake and Puno , Huaraz and Chavin , Lima , Nasca Lines and Paracas , Puerto maldonado , Manu National Park , Iquitos , Andes Mountains

Peru Travel Resources

· Climbing

· Inca Culture

· Inca Trail Tours

· Machu Picchu Tours

· Peru Adventure Travel

· Peru Surfing

· Peru Travel Guides

· Peru Travel Insurance

· Trekking

· Vacation Rental

For your Safety
Its good, if you notify the authorities of the INC (Instituto Nacional de Cultura) at the entrance of the ruins, if you are planning to make any hikes. Please do not go out alone, the chance of getting lost is very high.

For your Comfort
Carry enough drinking water, wear comfortable shoes, take insect repellent and sun block with you. Keep at least one set of dry clothes at the Lodge.

Wishing you a very Safe and Happy Journey!!

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Mashobra – Himachal Pradesh

Mashobra – Himachal Pradesh

Place of Unique Beauty

Mashobra surrounded by a frill of snow capped mountains, is situated at a height of 7500 ft above sea level at Himachal Pradesh. This place has a commanding splendid views and ringed by the peaks of the western Himalayas. Mashobra is well known as Asia's largest watershed with the water basins of the Indus on one side and the Ganges on the other.

Breathtaking Mashobra forms part of the Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary and is more thickly forested than Shimla. It has numerous shady glades, cool streams and flowery glens, so its perfect destination for camping, picnics, trekking and river rafting. This forested hill has a salubrious climate, that it never gets bitterly cold.

The entire valley is covered by dense woods of oaks and pines and is ideal for taking a pleasant walk in the midst of extremely soothing climate. If nature is your thing, Mashobra is an excellent destination to relax and rejuvenate you completely…

Fast Facts:

· Location Sivpur, Mashobra, near Shimla

· Distance from Shimla 12 kms

· Distance from Delhi 365 kms

· Driving time from Delhi 9 hrs approx

Season:

· Summer months: March to June

· Rainy season: July to August

· Pleasant and ideal time: September to November

· Winter months: December to Feburary

Route Map:
View Larger Map

How to Reach:

Fly away :- The nearest airport to Mashobra is at Shimla, located around 10 kms away from Mashobra.

On tracks :- The nearest railway station to Mashobra is at Shimla, located around 10 kms away from Mashobra. The station is well-connected to Mashobra as well as the other railway stations of

India

.

On wheels :- Well connected to major cities of India such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali by a network of well- maintained roads, reaching Mashobra by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town.

Tourist Attractions in Mashobra:

Mahasu:

Mahasu is named after Lord Mahasu, the patron deity of this village. And the Mahasu Jatara is a popular fair organized in honour of the God. On the third Tuesday of May, people from far and wide, congregate for the two day festival held in front of the Durga Devi Temple. This is an ancient temple and every year, a local dance called the 'Natti'is performed here. Folk songs and games add to the melee. And the main attraction of the fair is an archery competition.

Kufri

Kufri is situated at an altitude of 8600 ft above sea level, is a site offering some famous hikes and wonderful snow for skiing in winters. An enjoyable walk leads up to the Mahasu Peak, the highest point in Kufri. The Himalayan Nature Park here has a good collection of animals and birds found in the region. . When the sky’s a cloudless blue, watch for those inviting views of the snowy peaks of the Badrinath and Kedarnath ranges.

Fagu:

Fagu Situated on Hindustan-Tibet Road at a height of 2,450m and is gifted with some enchanting views. Himachal Tourism runs the Hotel peach Blossom here.

Naldehra

Naldehra is the name for a stunning hill spur that overlooks a dense deodar grove. Earlier a camping ground for the British, Naldehra is famous for being the oldest and highest 9 hole golf course in the country. The course is covered with fine turf. This place is the venue for many high-profile competitions and is lauded for its great beauty. And there is a ancient temple named Nag Temple very near.

Reserve Forest Sanctuary:

Here you will find rare species of plant and animal life as well as a riveting view of the Himalayas. Mashobra's lush slopes are populated by monkeys, baboons, jackals, barking deer, leopards and myriad species of birds, including pheasants, Himalayan Eagles, chikor and partridges. The trees you will find here are of the pine, oak, deodar, maple, horse chestnut, cedar and rhododendron species.

If the weather if good, you'll actually be able to see the Pir Pinjal range of mountains all the way in Jammu and Kashmir. You could also trek your way to the many peaks that surround this place to catch some breathtaking views. . A trek to Shali Peak - the highest in the area, can be made from Mashobra.This place is also ideal for camping and picnics.

Bekhalti:

The drive from Mashobra to Bekhalti is one of the prettiest in the region. The 18 km road meets Theog on the old Hindustan

Tibet

road.
Seog

Just towards the Kufri raod lies Seog, a reserve forest whose ancient cedar trees make you feel like a pygmy. A 7 km walk inside brings you to a water reservoir built in 1901. A well situated forest rest house is a welcome break for a cup of tea. Kept out of bounds for travelers for years, this jungle oasis has preserved an aastonishing variety of flora and fauna.
Wild Flower Hall:

On the Mahasu range, at Charabra, is the Wild Flower Hall situated at an altitude of 2,498 m. Nestling among picturesque sylvan surroundings, the Wild Flower Hall commands a breathtaking view of the snows. Serving as a hotel today, it attracts many tourists who wish to revisit the grandeur of a bygone era.
Rampur:
Located on the Hindustan Tibet Road. The town is situated on the banks of Satluj river. The whole area is a maze of lanes, shops and temples. In the month of November, the Lavi Fair is organized here. Dumgir Buddhist Temple, Padam Palace, Raghunath Temple, Ayodhya temple and Narsingh Temple, are worth visiting. Himachal Tourism runs a tourist Complex and air conditioned Cafe, Satluj.

Chail:

Chail is a lush green setting and was the former capital of the Patiala State. It has the world’s highest cricket ground at a height of 2250 m, built in 1893. It is also a hiker’s paradise and there is a wildlife sanctuary at a distance of 3 km from here. Himachal Tourism runs the Palace Hotel (Earlier the Palace of Maharaja Of Patiala)

Glenn :
Its about 4 km walk from the Ridge through dense Forests, a sprightly stream flows through the Glen forests at an altitude of 1830 meters.It is a secluded picnic spot.
Narkanda:
Narkanda, offers wonderful slopes for skiing. At an elevation of 2708 m, it has dense pine forests. Hatu peak, 8 km from Narkanda, provides a striking panorama of the plains below. Narkanda offers spectacular views of snow ranges. Ancient temple of Hatu Mata is alive with skiers. HPTDC runs Hotel Hatu and in winters short skiing courses are organised.

Sarahan :

On Hindustan Tibet Road beyond Rampur is a small village worth visiting. It provides a spectacular view of Shrikhand Mahadev (5227 m) and hiking opportunities to the nearby villages such as Ranwin and Bashal Peak. The Bhimakali temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is the finest example of Indo-Tibetan architecture. Saharan is the gateway to Kinnaur. A Pheasant Breading Centre and stadium are worth visiting. The area is a rich bowl of quality apples and other varieties of delicious fruits.

Tattapani : This is a spot well known for hot sulfurous springs. Shiv Goofa at Saraur (4 Km) is also worth visiting. One can enjoy fishing.

Jakhu Temple : Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is at an altitude of 8048 feet above sea level, near the highest point of Shimla ridge. It offers a panoramic view over the surrounding valleys , out to the snowcapped peaks, and over the town itself. The temple is a 45-minute walk from the Ridge, one can also hire pony or taxi to visit temple.. Jakhu is a vantage point for witnessing the changing skyline as the sun rises or sets.

Accommodation and Lodging:

As Mashobra is quite a popular tourist destination, the hotels in Mashobra remain busy to serve guests almost all the year round. Some of the famous hotels are

Wild Flower Hall - Oberoi Group Hotel, Mashobra

Club Mahindra Whispering Pines

Mashobra Spa & Resort

The Chalets Naldhera, Mashobra

Gables Resorts, Mashobra

Golf King, Naldhera

Koti Resorts Baldeyan

Golf Glade - HP Tourism

Woodstock Resort

Wishing you a very Safe and Happy Journey!!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Gokak Falls – Karnataka’s Niagara

Gokak Falls – Karnataka’s Niagara

Karnataka is blessed with many waterfalls. Gokak Falls is a waterfall known for its beauty. This falls is often compared to the globally famous Niagara falls due to its thundering waterbody.
This falls has a height of about 170 feet. The falls is famous for its spread and shape. The rugged valley and the picturesque inspires poetry. The dull roar of the falls can be heard much before you reach it. "Except in width and colour of the water, the general features of the fall, its height, shape and rapidity above are much like those of Niagara". The falls are horse-shoe shaped at the crest, with a flood breadth of 177 metres. Gokak gets its name due to the Goki trees found in abundance in these areas.

During rainy season, the thick reddish brown water sweeps far over the brink of the cliff with a roar that can be heard from distance. There is a hanging bridge across the river, measuring about 201 metres. Its height above the rock bed is 14 metres.
The waterfall is formed when the river Ghataprabha takes a 170 ft leap from over a horseshoe shaped sandstone cliff, spanning a breadth of 177 m.

Location:
Gokak Water Falls is in Belgaum District, Karnataka, South India. It is at a distance of 60 Kms from Belgaum and 10kms from Gokak town.

Season:

The best time to visit Gokak falls is the time between July to September, when the fall is impregnated with rain and it flows majestically and colorfully.

Route Map:
View Larger Map
How to Reach:
On Wheels: Gokak Falls is a mere six km from Gokak town and 71 km from Belgaum. Every 15 minutes a bus departs from Belgaum’s Khade Bazaar bus terminus to Gokak.
On Tracks: Ghataprabha railway station about 3 km from Gokak town is the nearest railhead. The Gokak falls is about 7 km from the railway station.
Fly Away: Belgaum has a civilian airport at Sambra. Deccan Aviation operates regular flights from all major cities across the country.

Prime Tourist Attractions:

Shivalinga - Gokak Falls Temple

This riverside temple is dedicated to Lord Mahalingeshwara. The temple is a large and sprawling structure built in the Later Chalukyan style of architecture. The temple has a garbhagriha, (sanctum), an ardhamantapa and a spacious but open mukhamantapa (frontal courtyard). The sanctum with its tall Shikara adorned with exquisite sculptures is a sight to behold.

Gokak Mills

Just walking down a few steps on the other side of the temple were the falls. A tiny bridge runs right over the falls and takes mill workers from one side of the falls to the other. The mill is called Yeah right Gokak Mills. They make cotton items. Tee shirts, curtains, towels, knitwear…

Hanging Wooden Bridge

Another important historical landmark here is the 210-metre long hanging wooden bridge built across the river built in 1907 to enable workers from nearby villages to cross the river and arrive at work. A walk on this century old creaking bridge – on which only 30 people are allowed at a time – is a thrilling experience. One can view the breathtaking vista of the waterfalls directly below as one walks across the bridge.

Chalukya Architecture

You can see the glimpses of glorious Chalukya architecture on the banks of Ghataprbha River near the falls
Electricity Generating Station
This is not an ordinary Electricity Generating Station. Electricity was generated here for the first time in the country in 1887. The generating station can be reached on the ropeway. Recommended only for the extra courageous!
Trekking Spot:

10 kms from Gokak falls there is a village named Godachinamalki. A trek of 2 Kms from here takes you to a beautiful falls, the stream flows in a slow rhythm, until the first drop of about 70 Ft, If you trek to the spot, you come across a long line of tiny falls that add up to make the big jump. The area being a rocky bed facilitates the creation of numerous lovely cascades to give the look of a royal bath in a palace complex.
The main falls dips again a little further by another 50 Ft before joining the Ghataprabha. This is truly rejuvenating falls, unspoilt and devoid of noisy crowds.

Travel tips for Trekking at Waterfalls

Dos	Don'ts	Tips
Go for forest friendly coloured clothes like green/browns	Litter	Don’t jump into water pool as there could be boulders beneath
Flat, comfortable walking shoes	Tease animals	Before plunging into stream for swimming seek locals' advice
Camera preferably with a tele photo lens	Talk loudly/make noise	Carry a bottle of kerosene to smear over the shoes to avoid leeches
Torch, sunglasses and hat	Get off the vehicle unless asked	Do not step on boulders covered with algae as they might slip
Essential Medicines	Use strong perfumes	Stay away from alcohol and liquor
Binoculars	Pick up anything as Souvenir	Do not go too close to the falls, as the water pressure could gush you out
Light jacket for winter	Touch insects/birds nest
Listen to sounds of nature	Wear bright coloured clothes
Observe/obey safety rules during safaries, coracles/boat rides and rafting	Play music

Famous Hotels and Resorts:

The food in this part of Karnataka is unique. You get Rotis made from corn and some side dishes are mouth watering. Also, do not forget to pack some Karadantu, a local sweet dish in Gokak for your family.

There are plenty of hotels available in Belgaum to cater to your tastes and needs. There are hotels in Gokak too, although the choice is not as varied as the hotels in Belgaum.

Sankam Residency
Travel Inn
Hotel Adarsha Palace
Hotel Karishma
Hotel Milan
Hotel Hoysala
Central Park
Hotel Keerthi
Hotel Vaishali
Hotel Dharwar
Pai Hotel
Hotel Western Tower
Brindavan Lodge
Hotel Sheetal
Meenakshi Lodging and Boarding
Hotel Pavan
Hotel Gurukrupa
Hotel Nataraja

Other Fascinating waterfalls of Karnataka:

Other Interests: