Preparing yourself for the Chadar Trek

An unusual expedition of trailing on ice, Chadar trek (3850 m) has cloudy blue-green waters. Black rocks are covered under a thick veneer of ice and snow. Chadar trek is also known as the “Chadar” (or veil). A very unique winter trek is worth experiencing in winter in Ladakh. Chadar trek is also familiar as Khado sanglam in Zansakari lingo – Dakini Path. Local people of Zanskar use this path to connect with other nearby places and hence, this trek is left almost alienated from many people. Every year this route remains chop off due to heavy snow fall.

The literal meaning of Chadar means white sheet of crystal ice. Trekking on silent blanket of snow can be a life time experience for the trekkers. One of the most exciting treks of Ladakh is very special as there is a pleasant river of Tsarap. You will be stopped by the Chilling Sumdo, a small settlement. Continue trekking towards a narrow vale filled with exciting and breathtaking sights of ice peaks. There are grazing grounds on the way. Spend your nights at camp side or in cave camps. Enjoy dinners with campfire. You will be amidst the whole serene and tranquil surroundings of Ladakh region.

A born fire will make you relaxed and warm. Sun's up and blue skies will let you cheer despite the cold weather. The trek trails through the pleasant Tsarap River in the region of Nyerag, Lingshed and forms to Zanskar region! Zanskar is a complete portal of Trekking trails in Ladakh. Explore the ancient cloisters and monastic establishments of Zangl and Karsha. These places promise you to give a deep insight into the mystic Ladakh and its culture. Chiling and Lingshed are the only sizeable settlements on this trek till you reach Hanamur and Pidmo before Pishu and Zangla.

Trekking on Zankar valley is a quality experience for adventure lover as well as trekkers. The trek traces the river gorge through a scenic landscape, a photographer’s heaven, providing rare sighting of Wildlife.

An ideal time to hike Chadar trek is mid January to end of February. Level of difficulty for this trek is moderate to challenging. You need to be very fit for his hike.

The necessary steps one should take before the trek:

• Chadar trek is quite a high altitude trek.

• This trek is an unsafe voyage with temperatures regularly getting below minus 30° C.

• This trek needs reasonable fitness as quality trekking gear is difficult.

• Make sure that you are done with your trekking equipments properly.
• Carry all your equipment with you before you leave home.

• Make a list of important things and equipments you will need for Chadar trek.

• Get adjusted with the climate before trekking.

• Sort out or divide your trekking equipments as per their need.

• Before leaving home for high altitude trek, it is advisable to have a medical check up.

• Carry essential medications and remedies, common medicines.

• Carry warm sleeping bags, warm clothing, gloves, pairs of socks and specially walking sticks.

Tips for Foreign visitors:

• Carry valid passports and visas.
• Ensure that your ‘tourist visa’ contains the duration of your visit.
• You need to take special permits before get into the territory of Ladakh.
• Special permits are not need for hiking in the Indian Himalayas, with the exception of certain restricted areas.
• If you carry heavy equipment like, special cameras or scientific equipment, then you will have to hire porters, and hence you will be charged for this extra service.

Nose to Nose with highest peaks

Not only Indians but also the visitors from all over the world, everybody has a desire to explore the Himalayas. Himalaya with its exciting expeditions always has attracted people. Himalayan peak is paradise for trekkers which offer highest peaks of this range to be climbed. The peaks of Himalayas set about 8,850 m in elevation. Himalayan peaks will give you deep insight into nature and its surroundings. Hiking Himalayas is one of the major attraction for the foreign tourists.

Himalayas are regarded as world’s highest peak which houses ten gallant summits of world. Other fourteen peaks are beyond 8000m in altitude. Some of the peaks are Nanga Parbat, Manaslu, Lahotse, dhaulagiri, Annapurna etc. The snow capped summits have enchanted millions of people coming here. The splendid beauty of the atmosphere is exotic. Experiencing the majestic panorama of Himalayas will be worth.

The highest peaks of Himalayas:

Mount Everest: Mount Everest, an abode of snow has been proved as the highest peak in the world which is set at an elevation of 8,850m (29,035) above sea level. One of the most gallant Mount Everest covers the areas of Nepal, north part of India and Tibet. It has derived its name from Sir George Everest, a British general. Mount Everest is known as Sagarmatha in Nepal and

Quomolongma in Tibet. This mount is always covered with snow. The altitude of the mountain deviates depending on snowfall on its crest.

Nanda Devi (25663 ft, 7824 m): The second highest peak is Nanda Devi. It lies at an altitude of 7824 meters on the border regions of Nepal and India. This peak was the loftiest one till 1808. Nanda devi is the part of Garhwal Himalayas, located in the state of Uttarakhand. It is placed betwixt two picturesque valleys such as Rishigana and Goriganga. Nanda Devi stands for “goddess who gives bliss blessings. The peak is considered as the patron- deity of the

Uttarakhand Himalaya.

Karakoram: Karakoram is also familiar as Austin Godwin. It is named after an English photographer who visited and explored the region. Karakoram stands for “The great mountain”, as it is the second highest mountain peak in the world, which sets at an elevation of 8,611m or 28,250ft.

Khangchendzonga: World’s third highest peak is Khangchendzonga in sikkim covering around 7000 sq km on the Sikkim and Nepal border. Khangchendzonga literally means “five treasures of snow”.

It has five summits. Khangchendzonga is set at an elevation of 8,586 m. This peak is hard to climb and explore.

Nanga Parbat: Another very famous and important range of Himalaya is Nanga Parbat is the ninth highest mountain in the world. Set at an altitude of 8,126 m, this peak has sharp edges. The snow capped summits worth viewing. Winter can be the best season to mount this peak.

Annapurna: One of the most prominent peaks of the Himalayas the Annapurna range is situated in central part of Nepal. An important Himalayan range of Annapurna is set at an elevation of 8,091 m. On the way to this peak, you can view the glorious glaciers, which enters into the beautiful gorge. Annapurna has several towering summits but the two most elated peaks are Annapurna I and Annapurna II.

Manaslu: An eighth mountain in the world is Manashu, set in Nepal and few miles from Annapurna. This is the highest peak of the plateau Gurkha. The word Manasa means “mountain of the spirit”.

Dhaulagiri Mountain: Set in the Eastern part of Nepal, Dhaulagiri is sited at an altitude of 8,201m. It is the 7th highest mountain in the world. Dhaulagiri stands for "white mountain. This peak unfolds till 30 miles, where you will find sharp ridges, glaciers, and icefalls. Other peaks are pyramid shaped.

Lhotse: The 4^th highest peak in the array of Himalaya is Lhotse, located in the China and Nepal border. It is places at an altitude of 8,516m. The summit unfolds from the east to west. A vertical ridge of this peak is linked with other two mounts. One is Lhotse Shar and Nuptese, which are set on west ridge of Lhotse.

Thrilling and Fun-filled GOA

An enormously popular destination for tourists from all over the world is Goa. Goa has invoked many holiday hoppers with its large number of beaches. Goa has been proved to be one of the best places to experience thrill of the surf with rush of excitement. You will be offered with ample choices in water sports. Goa is an idyllic destination to realize the real Adventure Sports in India, which will charge up you to no end! Your holidays can become more relaxing and thrilling too on the popular beaches and huge coastlines.

Beaches

Agonda Beach: A heaven for the loners, Agonda beach can be visited for many water sports over a stretch of three kilometers of golden sand.

Anjuna Beach: Anjuna beach is only 18 km from Panaji. An exotic beach is famous for its trance parties and multiple adventures.

Arambol Beach: Set about 50 km from Panaji, tranquil and lonely ambience of the Arambol beach will let you experience a comfy contrast to the hustle and bustle of other Northern Goa beaches.

Calangute Beach:

Calangute beach covers an area of 7 km. It is known as the queen of Beaches, with the scenic beaches dot the Goan landscape.

Colva Beach:

The longest beach of Goa, Colva beach is set within the serene surroundings of Goa. It covers an area of 20 km.

Dona Paula Beach:

Dona Paula beach has attracted many tourists with its scenic beauty and palm trees and casuarinas groves.

Miramar Beach: Miramar Beach is only 3 km from Panaji. It is a bustling tourist hub.

Palolem Beach:

Palolem Beach is one of the prominent beaches in the South Goa. It is famous for its scenic beauty, idyllic milieu and silvery sand.

Vagator Beach:

Around 22 km from Panaji, Vagator beach is a famous beach in Goa. The coast line of Vagator beach stretches 30 km.

Bogmalo Beach:

Bogmalo beach is easily approachable from Vasco de gama, only 8 km away. This beach is visited by many tourists due to its charm.

Baga Beach:

Around 10 km from Mapusa, this beach is one of the most splendid beaches of Goa.

Chapora Beach:

The most visited beach, Chapora is set at a distance of 10 km from Mapusa. Its boat building and fishing legacy are the major attractions here.

Benaulim Beach:

The magnificent beach of Goa is Benaulim beach. As per Hindu mythology, the pointer of Lord Parasurama came on earth, when he was creating Goa.

Water Sports

Angling:

An easiest and safest activity is Angling in which fishing rod, food and ample of time ar

e required. You can travel to Betul and Agonda to enjoy angling in Goa.

Dinghy Sailing:

A quite un-straining water sport is Dinghy Sailing. In this sport the dinghy sails calmly to the gentle wind. Three to four persons can accommodate in one dinghy. Many private water sports provide dinghies on hire.

Parasailing:

An escapade cum novel activity is Parasailing in which you will be attached with a parachute tows. You can sail in the air 300 feet above sea level. View the panoramic sights. Parasailing is enjoyed at beaches like Anjuna, Baga, Candolim, Dona Paula and Majorda.

Sailing in Goa: Sailing in the long and beautiful rivers of Goa is an unforgettable experience. It is the only sport that any sport lover can try out. The best way to get relaxed is sailing in the waters of Goa.

It's the best recreational and relaxation activity for your beach vacation in Goa.

Fun activities:

Beach Sports:

The beaches of Goa tempt one to play vivid sports like, volley ball, Basket ball, children go and find sea shells. The combination of silvery sands, sea waves and palm grooves entice people with

its rhythm.

Casinos:

Casinos of Goa are popular for professional and amateur gamblers. Goa is known as Las Vegas of India. Casinos of Goa follow cosmopolitan and sophisticated culture. The local people are friendly. Some of the most visited casinos of Goa are filled with excitement and energy. You can cherish playing games while ship journeying through sea.

River cruises: Goa offers a great chance to traverse through sea. The scenic lakes and rivers have tempted many tourists. In day time, you get a chance view sunset and in moon light, you can trail along with dolphin, crocodiles. This realistic world is full of wonders!

Please note:

Goans are music freaks and play Western and Indian music. Dances are the part of various clubs, streets and the beach.

Tourism:

Tourism of Goa was established for touristy and infrastructure. It was formulated to provide the needs of foreign tourists. Tourism Goa has risen up after a long internalization and now has become a ground breaker for the general tourism industry in India.

Best places for Backpacking in India

Introduction to backpacking

India is one of the cheapest places to go backpacking for. The tourism is continually rising but even today there are places where you can get accommodation at 100 rupees a day. This only

makes India a preferred destination among backpackers. The three basic requirement clothing, shelter and food are absolutely manageable and easily affordable here. For these practical reasons and also owing to the huge publicity

it receives as being a land of rich culture, heritage and traditions, India easily lures hundreds of backpackers every year.

There Is Enough to See In India for Years

India is a huge country. Not just in size but also from tourism point of view. If you decide to explore the entire nation you would probably have to come back every year for the rest of your life. Culture wise India is very rich and multifaceted. To understand the lifestyle and people here one needs to invest time, money and emotions. There is such a huge contrast in people, language, dressing and values within the same country that most people feel lost yet attached to this place.

Many backpackers come here for spiritual gains. They go and stay in Rishikesh or any other Himalayan settlement and probably never return from there. Some who like to have a feel of all the sides of India design itineraries that cover all the four direction of the country. Backpacking in India for foreign tourists is a cheap affair. Traveling takes time but each journey is a learning experience, a peek into yet another aspect of Indian culture.

Places for backpacking in India

Depending on what whether you are visiting India you can choose your destination accordingly. Or Vice Versa where you want to go and what’s the temperature like. Either ways knowing the temperatures makes your trip a lot less hassle. These are a few names mentioned for backpackers to explore. But it does not end here. The options are endless.

New Delhi

The capital city New Delhi has an extreme climate. Summers are long and hot, winters last 3-4 months and are very cold. It doesn’t snow here but the temperatures go as low as 0 degrees. As far as tourist attractions go Delhi is a huge city and has many types of entertainment activities for everyone. It also offers Adventure Sports and great sight seeing places. Delhi is an urban city with shopping malls and star rated hotels.

The culture is cosmopolitan and can suit even foreigners. Delhi is also a city of thugs where you never know who might con you. So when here give priority to your safety. Other things to do while here are shop at Janpath or Rajori bazaar, eat at chandni chowk or paranthe wali gali or see the red fort or India gate.

Mumbai

Mumbai climate is humid due to the sea. It never gets too hot or too cold here. Monsoons come earlier here and end late. Mumbai is the commercial hub of the country. It is cosmopolitan and absolutely a tourist’s favorite. There are many excursions from Mumbai like Ajanta and Ellora caves, Aksa Beach, Pune etc. In Mumbai you can visit the famous siddhi vinayak temple, shop at linking road, Crawford market or Fashion Street. Take a taxi ride on the Bombay-w

orli sea link or enjoy the chatpata food of Juhu Chopati.

Calcutta

Summers here are humid and temperatures exceed 40 degrees. Winters are short but extremely chilly and rainfall is moderate. Calcutta is a land of artists, literati and revolutionaries. It also has rich spiritual wealth. There is a strong influence of Romans, British and Moghuls. There are many historical monuments of tourist attractions and several adventure activities that you can indulge in. The China town, Howrah Bridges, tiffany’s pub is very famous

here. Calcutta is also place where coffee-houses are quiet an old trend.

Shimla

Shimla is a cold place and has moderate warm weather. Snowfall occurs in December. The places

to see in Shimla are the summer hill, Annadale, Christ church, Kufri, Kasauli and many more.

There are hostels in shimla especially for backpackers. You can go trekking and camping in the Shimla Hills. You can

also shop for handmade shoes, dolls, woollen caps, carved wooden sticks, toys in the Shimla Mall.

Things to carry in backpack

Here is a master list things which you can refer to if you plan for a backpacking trip. These few essential things can make your backpacking trip very easy.

• A route map which gives you locations of petrol pumps and toll booths. But this is a personal choice as backpackers generally like to discover places as and when they reach there. A big marker to keep a check on the places covered or any important notes to make. Lots of plain paper and cardboards and paper clips.
• Keep a small foldable umbrella with you. A large towel, toiletry, liquid peppermint soap, toilet paper, deospray.
• A sleeping bag, waterproof compression sack.
• Warm clothes: 3-4 t-shirts, lots of socks and under garments, a jacket, wind cheater, warm woolen leggings, 2 pairs of jeans, sneakers, flip flops, chewing gum, peppermints, water bottle, drinks, books, pack of cards.
• First-aid kit, sewing kit
• Torch, camera, iPod, CD player.
• Your cell phone.

Choosing an adventure destination

Decision on the Adventure Destinations need ample time to sort out many things starting from the things to carry to the budget. Tips below can be useful for a proper journey of escapades.

One of the most important things is to know about the destination, because the proper destination makes all the difference. Hiking to the nearest peak or surfing on the nearest beaches should be preferred first.

Make a list of number of persons with whom you are going. Do a thorough research in the books or on the net. Focus on the age of your company, and according to them, you can choose your adventure destination. Come up with one which is liked by everyone, and what is feasible. Check the itineraries or schedule of your adventure tours, so that you will come to know about your capability for doing those activities. Do not get deceived by the showy and colorful adventure sites or its pictures on net. Sometimes you can be cheated.

Ensure that, you book your tour with the travel company that assures your safety with the place and the equipments used. Be sure about your guide that will be provided in your tour. When you are done with all the information about the place and the travel packages, you need to consider it budget wise.

Relatives or friends can be useful who have been there the places which you choose. Visit some holiday fairs, contact some reputed travel companies these can be the best options to make shrewd decision.

If you are going for hiking, then you should know about the elevation of treks, best season in which it is carried, its grade etc. If you are going scuba diving you must know about what sea provides and the diving training centers and courses available there.

Another important point to keep in mind is that, look out for the affordable air flights and book them right away. Simultaneously, other things like food, accommodation, and climate must be considered before you plan adventure trip.

Carry extra pair of clothes, prescribed remedies, and other essential equipments. Pack them in two parts, what to carry in your bags, and what to carry while hiking or doing Water Sports, or any

kind of safaris. Thus, after planning about your destination for escapades, it will be easier for you to cherish them, and you can fulfill your desires.

Prepare yourself for high altitude trekking

The joys of Trekking in high altitude cannot be described but neither can the dangers related to be stated in words. Lot of trekkers and even sight seers suffer from high altitude sickness. People can be affected by it at 8000 feet but it doesn’t start showing before 12000 feet. It is not the height which causes it but the speed with which you climb that height.

The high altitude sickness is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Men are more prone to it because they tend to climb the altitude rapidly. For people of both the genders it is always sensible to have enough number of days that give you time to acclimatize. To avoid getting ill in the mountains give yourself 2-3 days to get used to height. For any sort of vigorous activities let you body get accustomed to the cold, thinness of air and the general weather. Mostly doctors prescribe acetazolamide for people flying straight to high altitude places. But it is advisable to seek medical advice before consuming this medicine.

The symptoms of mountain sickness are headache, difficulties in sleeping, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea of loss of appetite. When it becomes severe you might experience less urination, confusions, and difficulties in breathing, severe headache, loss of memory, delirium and unconsciousness. If the symptoms are intense then it can also prove fatal.

Between 6000-8000 feet Trekkers and Climbers should rest for a day or two before starting their journey. You can climb more when the sun’s out and rest 1000 feet above what you were the previous day. Heights can expose you to scorching sun light, spine chilling cold and wind. You should be take precaution against these as well.

Wear boots that give ankle support. Old worn out boots should be preferred instead of new ones. You should carry a pair of extra shoes to walk in around the camps. You should also carry along with you water and wind proof jacket. It’s called Parka/anorak jacket. Carry a pullover, 2-3 t-shirts, a shirt maybe and a long sleeved tee. Carry woolen bottoms as they are more comfortable than jeans. Also carry a woolen cap, woolen socks and gloves.

Lack of water in the body is a main reason behind people falling prey to altitude sickness. The air becomes thin at heights which is usually dry and results in loss of fluid from the body. Dehydration makes lowers you tolerance power, tires you quickly and makes you prone to heat and sunburns. So in the weeks prior to trekking time you should increase your water intake.

If you have had enough fluid before and during trekking you’d sleep better and remain energized on all days of the trek. Get yourself a good comfortable sleeping bag and if you happen to be a

light sleeper carry ear plugs.

Getting hang of the high altitudes differs from person to person. And this can be learned only from hand on experience. But if you have had no prior experience you can start by following the above hints.

Nose to Nose with highest peaks

Not only Indians but also the visitors from all over the world, everybody has a desire to explore the Himalayas. Himalaya with its exciting expeditions always has attracted people. Himalayan peak is paradise for Trekkers which offer highest peaks of this range to be climbed. The peaks of Himalayas set about 8,850 m in elevation. Himalayan peaks will give you deep insight into nature and its surroundings.

Himalayas are regarded as world’s highest peak which houses ten gallant summits of world. Other fourteen peaks are beyond 8000m in altitude. Some of the peaks are Nanga Parbat, Manaslu, Lahotse, dhaulagiri, Annapurna etc. The snow capped summits have enchanted millions of people coming here. The splendid beauty of the atmosphere is exotic. Experiencing the majestic panorama of Himalayas will be worth.

The highest peaks of Himalayas:

Mount Everest: Mount Everest, an abode of snow has been proved as the highest peak in the world which is set at an elevation of 8,850m (29,035) above sea level. One of the most gallant Mount Everest covers the areas of Nepal, north part of India and Tibet. It has derived its name from Sir George Everest, a British general. Mount Everest is known as Sagarmatha in Nepal and Quomolongma in Tibet. This mount is always covered with snow. The altitude of the mountain deviates depending on snowfall on its crest.

Nanda Devi (25663 ft, 7824 m): The second highest peak is Nanda Devi. It lies at an altitude of 7824 meters on the border regions of Nepal and India. This peak was the loftiest one till 1808. Nanda devi is the part of Garhwal Himalayas, located in the state of Uttarakhand. It is placed betwixt two picturesque valleys such as Rishigana and Goriganga. Nanda Devi stands for “goddess who gives bliss blessings. The peak is considered as the patron- deity of the Uttarakhand Himalaya.

Karakoram: Karakoram is also familiar as Austin Godwin. It is named after an English photographer who visited and explored the region. Karakoram stands for “The great mountain”, as it is the second highest mountain peak in the world, which sets at an elevation of 8,611m or 28,250ft.

Khangchendzonga: World’s third highest peak is Khangchendzonga covering around 7000 sq km on the Sikkim and Nepal border. Khangchendzonga literally means “five treasures of snow”. It has five summits. Khangchendzonga is set at an elevation of 8,586 m. This peak is hard to climb and explore.

Nanga Parbat: Another very famous and important range of Himalaya is Nanga Parbat is the ninth highest mountain in the world. Set at an altitude of 8,126 m, this peak has sharp edges. The snow capped summits worth viewing. Winter can be the best season to mount this peak.

Annapurna: One of the most prominent peaks of the Himalayas the Annapurna range is situated in central part of Nepal. An important Himalayan range of Annapurna is set at an elevation of 8,091 m. On the way to this peak, you can view the glorious glaciers, which enters into the beautiful gorge. Annapurna has several towering summits but the two most elated peaks are Annapurna I and Annapurna II.

Manaslu: An eighth mountain in the world is Manashu, set in Nepal and few miles from Annapurna. This is the highest peak of the plateau Gurkha. The word Manasa means “mountain of the spirit”.

Dhaulagiri Mountain: Set in the Eastern part of Nepal, Dhaulagiri is sited at an altitude of 8,201m. It is the 7th highest mountain in the world. Dhaulagiri stands for "white mountain. This peak unfolds till 30 miles, where you will find sharp ridges, glaciers, and icefalls. Other peaks are pyramid shaped.

Lhotse: The 4^th highest peak in the array of Himalaya is Lhotse, located in the China and Nepal border. It is places at an altitude of 8,516m. The summit unfolds from the east to west. A vertical ridge of this peak is linked with other two mounts. One is Lhotse Shar and Nuptese, which are set on west ridge of Lhotse.