Leh Ladakh – Himachal Pradesh

Leh Ladakh – Himachal Pradesh

 An Exotic Destination 

Leh, (3505 m) the capital of Ladakh is a fascinating destination. Age-old monasteries, quaint lanes, colorful markets and stunning views of the Himalayas, make Leh an exotic destination. Leh is where your adventure in Ladakh begins. You can go trekking through the mountainous terrain of Ladakh, enjoy a game of polo in a high altitude arena or watch an archery contest where local residents compete in a contest that remains unchanged by time.
The two of the world’s most powerful mountain ranges – the Karakoram and the Great Himalayas – make Ladakh a much preferred adventure destination. Mountaineering, white water rafting and wildlife tours are other adventurous attractions of Leh Ladakh India. With all its majesty and amazing sceneries, Leh valley attracts tourists from all over the world, to its lap all through the year…

Location:
Leh is the capital of Ladakh, which is a district of Jammu and Kashmir. Leh is located in the state of Jammu & Kashmir in the extreme north of India. The valley of Ladakh is situated at quite a high altitude, which varies from one place to the other. Infact, the geographical location of Ladakh ranges from 9,000 ft high at Kargil to 25,170 ft high at Saser Kangri, in the Karakoram Range. Due to its high altitude, Ladakh experiences a very cold climate, where even the summer temperatures rarely exceed 27 deg C.

Best time to visit Ladakh :   June to October

Route Map:
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How to Reach:

Air
Indian Air Lines operates regular flight to Leh from Delhi, twice a week between Leh to Jammu and once a week from Srinagar. Jet Airways Operates daily flight between Leh to Delhi.

Road
There are two overland routes the Srinagar to Leh road remains open from early June to November. The Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation operates regular deluxe and ordinary bus services.

INTERNAL TRANSPORT

The Taxi ( car/gypsy) are available for hire on fixed point -to-point tariff, For visit to the newly opened areas of Nubra, Changthang and Dah-Hanu , it is mandatory to engage the services of the registered /recognized travel agency for making all the requisite arrangements including internal transport.

Places of Interest:

There are a number of places to see in Ladakh. Some of the Prime Attractions are

Leh:

It’s a well known tourist spot with an airstrip, above 50 kms from Upshi.The roads leads to Khardung la (in north) and to Kargil (in west). Tourism, H.P. SRTC and J&K SRTC operate Deluxe and Ordinary bus services between Manali and LEH. The bus journey between Leh and Manali takes about 19 hours or two days with an overnight halt in camps at Serchu or Pang. Gypsy and jeep taxis are also available, both at Manali and Leh.

The Nubra valley:

The Nubra valley lies in the north of leh and is accessible over the Khardungla pass, 5600 Mtrs, which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The valley is on the trade route from leh to Khangar via Samsar and Karakoram passed. Apart from unparraled trekking opportunities, the valley has several Buddhist Gompas.  Diskit Gompa is 350 years old and is situated on the highest point near the village in which there are about 120 Resident Buddhist Monks.

Kargil:

Kargil, 204 kms from Srinagar in the west and 234 kms from Leh in the east, is the second largest urban centre of Ladakh and headquarters of the district of same name. Kargil serves as an important base for adventure tours in the heart of Himalayas. It is also the take off station for visitors to the erotic Zanskar Valley. Kargil mainly serves as an ideal base station for adventure activities like trekking, mountaineering, camping, river rafting etc. In high Himalayan Valleys.

Zanskar Valley:

This main valley is approximately 300 kms long and is ringed by mountains. This is an isolated Buddhist land, wedged between the main Himalayas and the Zanskar range.. Access to it is therefore over one of the high passes. Zanskar Valley presents the World with Buddhist monasteries, mountain passes, glaciers and breathtaking landscape. This region can be visited by Trekking, but this is not easy. The treks are often rough & steep, the passes high and the climate - extreme. There are some strenuous treks starting from Lahaul Valley through the Zanskar region and ending in Padum or further to Lamayuru and Leh.

Drass Valley:
Drass Valley is an enchanting valley formed by the Drass River which rises in the Machoi glacier near the famous Zojila Pass. The river is joined in its course by many other rivers and streams flowing in from snowfields. The river Shigar flowing in from the north drains into the Drass River. As the snow melts in summer the volume of this river rises considerably The terrain is characterized by rock and stones with the occasional greenish patches formed by willow and groves. The short summer season in the Drass Valley begins in May.

Indus Valley:
This valley is located at a height of 3500 m, and  is sand-witched between the Zanskar Range on its South and the Ladakh Range on its North, This is the geographical backbone, and the historical heartland of Ladakh. The bulk of the population resides along the Indus. Its main attraction is the numerous Buddhist monasteries, quaint villages, fairs, festivals and bazars.

The Pangong Lake:
This route takes the visitor past the picturesque villages of Shey and Thikse, and turns off the Indus valley by the side valley of Chemrey and Sakti. The Ladakh range is crossed by the Chang-la (18,000 feet / 5,475 M) which despite its great elevation is one of the easier passes, remaining open for much of the year even in winter, apart from periods of actual snowfall. Tangse, just beyond the foot of the pass, has an ancient temple

Rohtang Pass:
Manali is the starting point of this dramatic journey and Rohtang Pass(13,000 ft/3,978 m), 51 kms away is the first important milestone on the Manali - Leh road as it is the gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys.

SARCHU:
Sarchu is at the other base of Baralacha - La (4892mts.), the end point of Himachal Pradesh and located on the way to Leh - Ladakh.. There are various trekking routes to Spiti, Chandertal and Zanskar start from here. The strategically important base for the Indian army and the cold desert with moonscape remains open for just four months in a year.

Tsomoriri Lake:
This is a Mountain Lake situated in the middle of the elevated valley of Rupshu. This valley is inhabited by a small scattered population of -Changpas- nomadic shepherds who also engage in trade and work in caravans in Ladakh, Lahaul and Spiti. The Area is rich in wildlife .

DROK PA AREA:
An expedition to this area takes the trekker to the picturesque villages of the Drok Pa people. Though Buddhist in religion, they are distinctly different, both racially and culturally. Two of their villages Dah and Biama may be visited. The route following the Indus after Khalaste goes past the attractive villages of Domkhar, Skurbuchan and Achinathang, set amidst fields of ripening crops and orchards of fruit trees.

Shanti Stupa :
The Shanti Stupa was built by a Japanese order and was opened by the Dalai Lama in 1985. From the top, one can view the exotic locales nearby. The stupa is located at a distance of 3 km from the Fort Road.

ULETOKPO:

This is the  most beautiful camping in the Ladakh region on the way of Spituk Monastery, which is just 5 kms from Leh town. Alchi Choskor is the only monastery in the Ladakh on flat ground, around 69 Kms west of Leh

Shylok Valley:

The Shylok Valley is the valley of the river of death - Shylok River. Rising from the Khumdang glacier this can be approached from Shylok. The river freezes in winter forming an easy access between the Khaplu and the Nubra valleys. In summer, as the snow melts in the uplands, the river overflows its banks and inundates the surrounding plain for many kilometers, at times creating a vast marsh. During this period, the Shylok River has to be crossed on rafts of inflated skin.

Salt Valley:
The Salt Lake Valley is one of the widest open areas in Rupshu. It can be approached from Leh across the Tanglang La pass. The valley has a length of about 20 km and a maximum width of about 7 km. Its average elevation is 5,000 m.

Padum:

Padum is 464 Kms. From Leh and 234 Kms away from Kargil. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Zanskar valley, today it is the administrative headquarter of the region and probably the most populace settlement of barren Zanskar region. There is a tiny market along the main road.

Shey Palace And Gompa:

 Situated on a hillock 15 Kms upstream from Leh, it was once the residence of the royal family. According to tradition, it was the seat of power of the pre-Tibetan kinds.             A 7.5 mts high copper statue of Buddha, plated with gold and the largest of its kind, is installed here.

Stok Palace and Museum:
The palace of the banished royal family, Stok has a museum which displays fabulous period costumes and jewelry of the royalty along with exquisite Thankas representing the life style of Shakya Muni. Interesting historical objects like coins, armor, weapons, precious jades and porcelain too can be seen here.

Trekking:

Leh is one among the few trekking places in north India that offers wonderful trekking trails. You can hit the route to Markha Valley from Spituk or take the Lamayuru gompa to Chilling trek along the Zanskar river. The another popular trek that can be taken is from Likir to Temisgam. June to October is considered to be the ideal time for trekking in Leh Ladakh.

Shopping:
The Yak milk chocolates and butter or a Buddhist bell is very famous.  A tourist can choose from a number of items from the local market that typically depicts the culture of Ladakh people in its best.

Where to Stay:

Finding accommodations in Ladakh, India is quite easy. There are various residential options available to suit everyone's budget. Ranging from hotels to paying guest accommodation, there are a number of places to stay in Leh Ladakh. Some of the best stays are

Hotel Dragon

Hotel Ksar Palace

Hotel Ga-LdanContinental  

Hotel Shambha-La  

Hotel Nirvana Palace

Caravan Centre

Hotel Bijou

Hotel Devachan

Hotel Ga Ldan Continental

Where to Eat:

Restaurants in Ladakh offer many kinds of cuisine including Tibetan, Korean, Chinese, and Western dishes. Enjoy a culinary adventure on tours to Ladakh with Leh Ladakh, India.

Himalaya Café                        - for good Tibetan fare
Shangri La                              - offers Korean cuisine
Budshah Inn                          -  offers Chinese and Kashmiri cuisine
Dreamland Restaurant           - offers Tibetan, Kashmiri, Indian and Italian food.
Penguin Bar and Restaurant - has a German Bakery with a wide choice of baked goods         Mentokling Restaurant        - offers pizzas cooked over a traditional wood-fired oven
Pumpernickel German Bakery - offers lasagna and a fixed-price breakfast, as well as picnic meals.

Adventure in Ladakh

Mountain Climbing   Cycling      Jeep Safari Tours     Yak Safaris      Mountaineering
Ladakh Trekking

Travel Tips:

·         All visitors must ensure that they are physically fit.

·         The best is to take plenty of water

·         It is an absolute must to carry skin creams, lotions and chapsticks.

·         One should also carry Sun Glasses, hats, Scarfs, thick cotton trousers / jeans for day use, wollen sweaters/ jackets, sports shoes, sandals with straps for rafting and evening wear and gloves.

·         Films and batteries for cameras should be carried in quantity, because re-supply is not assured.

·         A powerful flashlight is a must for those interested in studying monasteries, as the interiors are dimly lit.

·         Photography of bridges, airfields and military installations is strictly prohibited.

·         One should carry regular medicine for Diarrhoea, Gastric, Acidity, Headaches, Fever, Cold and Congestion.

Happy Journey!!

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!!

Pachmarhi - Madya Pradesh

Pachmarhi

Pachmarhi is one of the most popular hill stations deriving its name from a group of five caves. It is located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The cool and tranquil weather and the serenity that reside in Pachmarhi, makes this place a paradise for the holiday makers. It is popularly known as Satpura Ki Rani. 

Pachmarhi is a place where nature has found exquisite expression in myriad enchanting ways. Green shades embrace the mountains, and there is a gentle murmur of flowing water everywhere.

The valley, ravines and maze of gorges, sculpted in red sandstone by the wind and weather, add their own colouring to this palatte of shades, and cascading waterfalls flash silver in the sunshine.You can also find some rare species of orchids in Pachmarchi.

Location:

Located in the Satpura ranges, Pachmarhi is an idyllic hill station in Madhya Pradesh. Pachmarhi is about 210 kilometres from Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh.

Season:   April to July, September to May.  However the climate is  cool and pleasant throughout the year. The pure and fresh air of pachmarhi refreshes the tired souls.

Route Map:
View Larger Map

How to reach:

Air: The nearest airport is Bhopal, connected by regular flights with Delhi, Gwalior, Indore and Mumbai.
Rail: Pipariya (47 km), on the Mumbai-Howrah main railway line via Allahabad, is the most convenient railhead. Bhopal is also a mainline railway station with trains to most major destinations.
Road: Pachmarhi is connected by regular bus services with Bhopal, Hoshnagabad, Nagpur, Pipariya and Chhindwara. Taxis are available at Pipariya.
Tourist Attractions:

Pandav Caves
Pandav Caves are the famous caves from which Pachmarhi derived its name. According to historians, during Mahabharata era, the five Pandava brothers had spent good part of their exile here. These caves are considered to be carved out during Buddha period.

Bee Falls:   It is a spectacular fall in the stream that provides drinking water to Pachmari and is easily accessible.
Mahadeo
Situated just 10 km from the town, this is an important cave shrine for Hindus. This shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The legend behind the shrine is that, this is the place where Lord Shiva came to hide from Bhasmasura, who was rewarded a boon that, whomsoever he touches on the head, will be destroyed. Using this boon, the demon tried to destroy Lord Shiva. There is a Shivalingam in the cave. Shivratri is celebrated here with huge enthusiasm. Reaching here is a bit strenuous as the only way is through deep Sal forests and sharp curves.

Jatashankar   an important rock formation is -a place sanctified by the Shaivite lore. The stones are indeed shaped like the mater hair of the great Hindu god Shiva, and inside a natural Cavern there is a stone formation like the hundred-headed divine snake Seshnag.

Satpura National Park:
This park is set up in 1981 in around 524 sq. km of area. Fascinating natural valleys, waterfalls and Tawa’s reservoir add beauty to this park. Tourists can come across bisons, tigers, leopards and a rich variety of birds.

Churches:
The Christ church and Catholic church were constructed by the British in 1892 and 1875 respectively. The Belgian stained glass windows in Catholic church attracts tourists. The nave of Christ church doesn’t have a single pillar for support.

Apsara Vihar:     

A lovely little bathing pool, and easily accessible from Jai Stambh, this pool is an ideal picnic spot for families. The pool is shallow, deepening only towards the base of the fall which cascades gently into it's waters.

Silver Fall (Rajat Prapat)   Water Stram of Fairypools falls into a valley making a big fall named Silver fall ,it falls into a depth of around 350 ft.

Cahuragarh Dhupgarh
Cahuragarh and Dhupgarh hills are the prominent landmarks of Pachmarhi. The place offers panoramic view of the setting sun. The ancient Shiva temple is also worth seeing.
Irene Pool: This pool was discovered by Irene Bose, wife of Justice Vivian Bose, and named after her. The approach to this bathing spot is from the car stop to Reech Garh. The route upstream leads to a cave, through which the stream goes underground and then over a khud in a series of falls.

Jalawataran (Duchess Falls):
It is located very close to Irene Pool. This falls is ideal for swimming. The trek is a little difficult as the path is very steep. Such setting makes it one of the picturesque waterfalls.

Sunder Kund (Saunder's Pool): Crossing the stream below Duchess Fall and following a footpath about 2.5 km in a south-west direction, brings one to a huge rocky pool in the Jambu Dwip stream. This is an excellent place for swimming. 

Forsyth Point (Priyadarshini Point)
Formerly named after Captain Forsyth who discovered this verdant jewel in 1857, Priyadarshini Point commands spectacular sunset views.

Handi Khoh:
This is the most impressive small valley of this hill station. It has a 300 ft high cliff with attractive steep sides. Adventurous tourists should visit this spot.

Where to Stay:

Accommodation is easily available in the hill resort of Pachmarhi.

Golf View

Hotel Indraprastha

Hotel Pachmarhi Regency

Hotel Pandav

WelcomHeritage The Golf View

Hotel Giri Shringar

Hotel Sanskar

The Misty Meadows Resort

Panchvati Huts and Cottages

Pachmarhi Regency Hotel

Holiday Homes

Rock End Manor

Where to Eat:

Abhinanndan Restaurant

Amrapali Restaurant

Anand Bhojnalaya

Angeera Restaurant

Anjora Restaurant

Arya Bhawan Restaurant

Dhana Laxmi

Fantasy Restaurant

Hot Treats

Other Attractions In Madhya Pradesh

Kaliadeh Palace
Kalbhairav Temple
Laxmi Narayan Temple
Fort Palace
Khajuraho
Kamadgiri Temple
Sunder Mahal
Gopal Mandir
Bhimkund
Gwalior Fort
Moti Masjid
Bandhavgarh Sanctuary

Other Hill Stations in India

Munnar

Manali

Kodaikanal

Lonavala Khandala

Darjeeling