Camel Safari in India

The idea of a veritable camel safari is attractive for exciting ventures and nature lovers. It is a unique way to explore the arid deserts. You will be amidst the most traversed deserts of India. Camel Safari in India

offers major hotspots including Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bikaner in Rajasthan. These spots are the kingdoms in the huge ranges of deserts. A tour of camel safari also includes night halts at villages in camps within desert scrub. Camel safari is also performed in the barren deserts of Ladakh in many regions, which is quite surprising for many people. Camels are the lifeline of deserts and known as ship of desert. It is a major transportation in deserts of Ladakh and Rajasthan. It is the best way to

explore the culture of Rajasthan and Ladakh. It will let you experience illuminating glances of India’s harshest but prettiest regions!

Destination - Ladakh:

Camel safari in Ladakh is enjoyed in the month of July, August and September. You will traverse through rutted mountain terrains on camels. The cold deserts of Ladakh offer beautiful sights of colorful landscapes and remote villages. Spend your nights under the studded sky. Camel safari imparts exciting views of glorious vales, Buddhist Gompas. You can explore pretty settlements such as Nubra and its valley, a fantastic place.

From Leh, you travel to Hunder, and take a camel ride through the sand dunes and picturesque valleys to Diskit. Take a short ride to Tegger village for another fascinating camel ride with the river to Pinchimic. Ladakh is well known for its nonpareil beauty, which can be treasured with two-humped camel ride.

Destination - Rajasthan:

Jaisalmer: A town of cobbled streets, desert, medieval architecture, Jaisalmer is bounded by golden sand dunes. It is the place where camel ride commands supremely! Camel safari in Jaisalmer will take you to the Badabagh, worth exploring. Badanagh is the place where tombs of Bhatti Rajput Kings are located. Visit a village called Baisakhi where you will find a temple. Take halt at Baisakhi and move your camel ride towards Ramkunds, famous for its Hindu temples. Trail to the village of Roopsi on the back of camel. A typical camel safari traverses to the architectural ruins of Lodurva set in the vicinity of Jaisalmer.

Bikaner: Bikaner is 333 km north-east of Jaisalmer. It is renowned for its interesting camel safaris, sweets, rugs and savoury snacks. Camel safari starts from Bikaner itself, in which the magnificent view of old Junagarh fort can be sighted. The lovely fort of Leh Palace is second to none! Camel safari will take you to south, where you trails through the villages of Baru, kansar, Naukh and other small towns like, Tadana Mohangarh. Thereafter, ride on camel towards Dungri and then to Jaisalmer.

Mandawa: Mandawa can be reached in just a few hours’ drive from Delhi. The ancient Havelis of Mandawa are decorated with colourful frescos, which is worth exploring. Camel safaris halt at the small villages nearby, mainly in the hamlet of Dhakas. It set within the dunes of Thar and its settlements. Thar is one of the famous deserts of Rajasthan. Next place for your respite is Khotia.

Pushkar: The camel fair at Pushkar is another added attraction if the riders want to witness a camel dance in its entire exquisite aura. You can view Aravalli Range, sandy fields, small dunes, pleasant hills and bewitching Sunrises and sunsets. The sights are exceptionally enticing!

Things to carry:

• Camel safari is done during winters, so carry woolen clothes, socks, mufflers.

• Take along plenty of warm sweaters and jackets when you are on a camel safari.

• Bedding- a warm sleeping bag, extra blanket

• Carry a first aid kit as well as any other essentials.

• You can carry an extra blanket to envelop the wooden saddle

Precautions/advice:

• Keep in mind about the arrangements, accommodation, food and drink etc.

• Be careful while riding on camel, you may turn dried up.

• Drink plenty of water – 2, 4 liters per day.

• Apply cream on your body to prevent from heat.

• Wear sun glasses, sun hat

• Do not harm the ecology and the culture of any region in which you do camel safari.

• Rajasthan is quite un-spoilt region, so do not spoil the places around and deserts.

Brahmaputra – A Thrilling experience

River rafting within Arunachal Pradesh is full of challenges that it offers to a skilled rafter. River of Brahmaputra is not at all cool and calm. It flows through rutted surface of the north-eastern Himalayan state of Arunachal Pradesh. The biggest white water run in the world is Brahmaputra River.

You will be offered the exhilarating hotshot from the glimmer of fast-moving clear-water. Here you will be passing from the grumble and sudden rush and rapid actions at a range of rivers and water bodies of India. White Water Rafting is one of the most gratifying means to experience the rustic areas and natural surrounds of India.

This expedition has all the big water features with hollows. The region is rich in Wildlife with animals such as tigers, leopards, elephants and Deers. There are over 300 different species of birds. This rafting tour is for those who are looking for an extra challenge.

River Rafting in Brahmaputra

is an exciting expedition and a journey through great rivers. One of the most pleasant rivers is Tsang Po River flows gently towards east Tibet. Namche Barwa is the place where real Adventure begins. Few miles inside, there is Siang, the Upper Brahmaputra.

River Rafting in Brahmaputra commences with a ferry boat ride at Dibrugarh. Enter into the plains of Pasighat, it is the entry point. This trip will bring you to the remote villages. This poised river flows and provides an exciting journey through tropical forests, gorges. Rafting trip traverses through isolated hillsides and settlements, bounded by thick rainforest.

The Upper Brahmaputra is fairly known as Siang which can be passed through riffles, rapids, legendary big drops and strong eddies. You get a chance do camping on the river bank while on the expedition. Experience nature so closely, that you will never forget!

A star studded sky covers you at night. Running to the Upper Brahmaputra is the most exciting way. Huge Class IV (advanced) rapid, named for Ningguing, a small village that reaches high beyond it, is the first of the challenges of the majestic Brahmaputra in northeastern India.

Zangbo is the starting point, also known as Tsangpo. A beautiful lake of Mansarovar can be seen. Raft further to reach to the Tibetan Plateau. Dihang valley is one of the major attractions and a home to an attractive tribe of hill people called the Adi. Raft down big drops in the gorge with the 'Roaring Rikor" and "Zebra Rock" till you reach on the track of "Toothfairy" rapid at Cherring.

For many of the raft men or rafters it can be first experience of flicking and an alarming one. But at times, you can be exhilarated, too; experience an amazing rafting trip!

Seven Getaways from Delhi

Rishikesh

Rishikesh lies in the beginning of the Himalayan mountain range. It is on the northern side of India and is named after Lord Vishnu who showed himself to Raibhya Rishi after being impressed by his penance.

How to reach

Distance between Rishikesh and Delhi is 225 km. The most preferred way to reach here is by car/bus/taxi which takes approximately 6-7 hours. The nearest reailway station is at Haridwar. The distance between Haridwar and Rishikesh is 24 km. away.

What to see

While in Rishikesh you should see Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat. Rishikesh is a pilgrimage and hence temples here are one of the major atteractions. Do not miss visiting the Bharat Mandir(A Vishnu Temple) on the outskirts of Rishikesh.

Adventure Activities

Rishikesh is quiet popular for the Adventure Activities it offers.White River Rafting is one of the major attractions here. Other sports you can enjoy here are Kayaking, Trekking and body surfing.

Nainital

Nainital is Kumaon’s biggest settlement. It is also a famous hill resort among honeymooners and families on holidays. Nainital is named after the famous Naini temple located on the Naini lake.

How to Reach

You can reach Nainital from Delhi via Meerut by road which takes eight hours. The nearest rail head is Kathgodam which is 35 km away from Nainital.

What to See

The major tourists’ attractions here are Tallital, Mallital, Naini Peak, Jim Corbett National Park, Bhimtal Lake and Hanuman Garhi.

Adventure Activities

There are several Water Sports carried out at Nainital. These include Yachting, Boating, Canoeing and kayaking. You can also go horse-riding, Rock Climbing or try golf.

Agra

Agra lies on the banks of Yamuna. It belongs to the Akbar era though the general belief is that Sultan Sikandar Lodi found it in 1504. A new religion came into existence during Akbar’s reign called Dīn-i Ilāhī and Radhaswami which now has millions of followers worldwide.

How to Reach

Agra is situated at a distance of 200 km from Delhi. There are at least 20 trains connecting Delhi and Agra which take anywhere between 4-5 hours. The quickest way to reach Agra from Delhi is by flight which lasts for 40 minutes but people generally prefer to take a day trip to Agra from Delhi and spend the night at Varanasi. When inside Agra you can make use of Auto rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws.

What to See

Agra is most famous for the Taj Mahal and when you see it you realize why it is still one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The other places worth seeing here are The Agra Fort which is another example of great architecture. Visit Sikandra, Akbar’s tomb, Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb built by Empress Noor Jahan and the Jama Masjid constructed by Princess Jahanara Begum in 1648. Other tourist’s attractiong here are Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-e-aam, Diwane-e-khas, Sheesh Mahal and Panch Mahal. The gardens of Swami Bagh, can also be visited. Besides Taj Mahal, Agra is famous for leather goods and Petha.

Adventure Activities

Agra is not a destination for sports or adventures but it has a golf course and one of the five start hotels has a tennis court. If you want to be amidst nature you can visit the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary which is 60 km from Agra.

Jaipur

Jaipur was the first planned city of the country. Built by Sawai jai Singh, it is the biggest city in Rajasthan. The legend behind the pink city is that the Maharaja painted the town pink to express hospitability to the Prince of Wales. Since then Jaipur is known as The Pink City.

How to Reach

You can reach Jaipur by flight from

Delhi. A large number of tourists prefer roads and trains. Bus service between Delhi and Jaipur is great and they run for the entire day. Car is the most popular was of reaching Jaipur. It takes less than 4 hours. Regular trains run between Delhi and Jaipur. Once you enter Jaipur you can hire rickshaws, taxis or cycle rickshaws to get around.

What to See

Must-see list is ; Amer Fort which you can explore the place on an elephants back, Hawa Mahal a red sandstone structure built for the royal ladies to observe the street life, Jantar Mantar one of the five biggest astronomy observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh and Birla Temple. Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, City Palace, Moti Doongri, and several places are should be on your to-see places.

Adventure Activities

Hot Air Balloon is an exciting activity you can indulge.

Corbett

Corbett National Park named after Jim Corbett was established in the year 1973. It was one

of the first 9 tiger reserves of the country. The flora and fauna is rich here. The deep forests and its beauty are captivating. The park houses more than 600 species of birds.

How to Reach

Ramnagar the head quarters of Jim Corbett is well connected by road with New Delhi. A direct train runs from Delhi to Ramnagar.

What to See

Bengal Tigers, Boars and Leopards are animals to look out for.

Adventure Activities

You can do bird watching, fishing and angling or simply explore the reserve in a jeep or go for an elephant safari.

Mussoorie

Known as Queen of Hills, Mussourie is a very popular as a hill station. Mussourie is named after the plants ‘Mussourie’ which grow in abundance here. After Mussourie was discovered, this place grew as an education and tourism center.

How to Reach

Dehradun is the nearest railhead but trains run from Delhi too. You can take your own car or get in a state transport bus from Delhi. Nearest Airstrip is Dehradun.

What to See

Lal Tibba the highest point in Mussourie, Kempty Falls is a famous tourist attraction; Happy Valley is a tibetian village and is great for a small trek and Dhanaulti the spot where the forest is converted into 2 eco-parks.

Adventure activities

Mussouries is used by trekkers and the Aglar and Yamuna Rivers offer good chances of trout fishing.

Rajaji

Rajaji was named so after C Rajgopalachari, the famous statesman of our country.

This is a national park near Haridwar. It is popular for wild elephants. This park was formed in the year 1983 by merging three sanctuaries; Rajaji Sanctuary, Motichur Sanctuary and Chilla sanctuary.

How to Reach

Rajaji is 229 km from Delhi. Trains run from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh on a regular basis. If you are coming by road then the park is only 5 hours away from Delhi.

What to see

This park is known for its population of wild elephants. Besides them you can also find tigers and leopards here. There are numerous Chitals and Sambars here which serve as food for the higher predators. More than 300 species of birds are found here.

Adventure Activities

You can opt for a jungle safari or nature walks to experience the park from its closest. You can observe migratory birds early morning and treat yourself to the large variety that can be seen.

Equipments for a trekking trail

If you plan to do hiking on your own, you will have to bring all your equipments with you. Make sure that you take all the necessary belongings. Sort them out into three different parts:

What will you wear on the trail?
What will you bring in the day pack?
What will you pack in the duffel bag?

Your bag will carry necessary things, which will be transported by the porter during the Trekking. Be sure that, you bring the requisites for the day packed separately in a small

backpack which you will carry. If you are carrying heavy equipments like cameras or any expensive equipment, then you will have to pay extra for this.

Trekking Equipments List:

• Water proofed trekking boots
• Shoes and extra sleepers
• Jacket
• Heavy wool shirt or sweater
• Cotton shirts, trousers or shorts
• Woolen trousers, skirts for women, cotton and woolen socks
• Sun hat with brim, woolen gloves, or balaclava
• First aid kit, including common remedies.
• Tablets of water purification.
• Sunglasses, snow goggles, with extra pair
• Toilet kit, with paper soap and towel.
• Flashlight including extra batteries
• Water bottles of at least one liter, preferably wide mouthed.
• Swimming costume, raincoat
• Boosters, snacks
• Pocket knife
• Pencils, Pen, notebooks, telephone directory
• Sleeping bags, and duffel bag
• Some plastic bags: small sized and big sized.
• Light weighted duffel bag, especially waterproof.

List of Optional Accessories:

1. Camera and film with cells or digital.

2. Binoculars
3. Umbrella

4. Needle, thread, tape, glue, scissors.
5. Extra water bottles

6. Pens, pencils, books, etc.

Precautions:

Health: Consult doctors before going for hiking tours. Get assured about your health.

Fitness: It is important to go for medical check up before visiting high altitude treks.

It is necessary to carry a medication who suffers from Nausea and shortness of breath.

Do not take snaps at the spiritual or holy places like temples/ monasteries and military base where shooting is restricted.

• While going for Adventurous Sports like Rafting and Trekking, always take a help of an expert guide.
• When you are trailing, drink water as much as you can.
• Stay out of direct sun. Use hats and caps as well as sunglasses.
• Apply sunscreen lotion.
• Avoid the hours between 10 am to 2 pm, when the rays of sun are strongest.
• Enjoy an early morning hike, and then rest in the shade that afternoon.
• Avoid skipping meal; make sure you provide your body proper nutrition.

Precautions for foreigners:

• Special permits are not necessary for trekking in Indian Himalayas except certain areas.
• Essential to carry your passport when you are on such travel.
• Special permits are taken before 6 months of your hiking trip.

Lakshadweep - Indian Water Sports Capital

Lakshadweep is abundant in its bunch of islands. The mysterious Lakshadweep is the only destination which suits more for water sports. The islands of Lakshadweep have enchanted thousands of tourists. It appears that the islands of Lakshadweep were discovered from the deepness of ocean. These islands are just only for tourists to take delight with the Water Sports. The soothing and cool milieu of Lakshadweep offer many escapades in water. You will be tempted by its deep blue lagoons. The waters of Lakshadweep are warm and tranquil, which has been proved to be a virtual heaven for all water

escapades. Lakshadweep has umpteen training centers on many islands, which also provide skilled and trained guides for your safety. The most renowned and favored sports are scuba diving and snorkeling. The lagoons are pretty shallow

, certain and easy for first time swimmers.

Water sports:

Snorkeling:

The most widely indulged escapade is Snorkeling which is on Lakshadweep beaches. All the facilities are provided for snorkeling. You will be offered by the nature, where you will experience smooth waters and crystal clear water. Observe the coral life very closely. Islands like Kadamt and Bangaram are the best places to spend quality time in snorkeling.

Scuba Diving:

If you want to spend quality vacation or holidays, better to move for diving. Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep will let you experience the cool water and refreshing water. Scuba diving is indeed

an exciting experience along with pristine water. The magical moments can be cherished by performing scuba diving in lagoons of Lakshadweep. Kadmat Island is the best option for scuba diving. It has a training institute that provides all the amenities with proper equipments.

Surfing:

There are not many destinations that provide all the facilities for surfing. An enthralling Adventure, surfing is still in its nativity stage in India. Several places of Lakshadweep h

ave become popular and developed for water sports including surfing. Surfing is performed on the

island of Kadmat, the lagoons around this island are ideal for a safe surfing. Water is easily predicted here for surfing. Popular training centers of Kadmat and Kavaratti provide

professional guides of surfing.

Water Skiing:

A surface water sport, water skiing is a recreational activity, take place on the islands of Agatti and Bangaram.

Kayaking:

An adventurous sport, Kayaking is done using a kayak for proceeding across water. You need to sit with the legs and hips inside the kayak hull, and are moved by hand-held paddles. Kayaking is performed on islands of Agatti and Bangaram Islands.

Best time: October to December is an ideal period for water sports in Lakshadweep.

Water sports emerging in Lakshadweep:

Huge lagoons of Lakshadweep have attracted many tourists all over the world. All the islands have come out as a water sport destination in the country. The department of Lakshadweep realized the potential of islands and hence it has become largely popular destination for water sports not only in India but also within country. Lakshadweep is the development of eminent affording adventure water sports like Para sailing and scuba diving etc. The main reason behind the popularity of Lakshadweep is its institute which offers all the amenities for canoeing, kayaking. Scuba diving centers are set on Kavaratti and Kadmat islands. These islands have emerged as superior scuba diving destinations to the adventure lovers and audacious holidaymakers.

Wildlife Tourism in India

Introduction to Wildlife tourism

Approximately 4% of the total Indian land is forests in which 90 forests are national parks and 482 Wildlife Sanctuaries. According to statistics, India has 60-70% world’s bio diversity.

In Indian forests you will find a variety of wildlife. From Asian Elephants to Asiatic Lion, Bengal Tiger, Sloth Bear, Indian Rhinoceros and Leopard, you will find all of them here. There are hundreds of bird species and it is one of the best places for bird watching.

Some National parks like Jim Corbett National Parkk

(Uttaranchal), Bandhavgarh National Park and Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh, Gir National Park in Sasangir (Gujarat), Ranthambore National Parkin Sawai Madhopur are rich in bird species.

History of WLT

Way back in 1973, Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore and Sariska were launched as national parks. In the year 2000, September 24^th, a need arises for the departments of forest, transport, fisheries and tourism to co-ordinate their resources. But for India it still looks like a dream. Despite of chaotic management, in Dec 2004 Dec 24^th, tourism saw growth due to availability of fantastic locales which were perfect to attract tourists from worldwide. In 2002, Kerala Tourism Development Corporation entered into a partnership with Indian Tourism Development Corporation development of tourism in Kerala.This included that sites for water sports, wildlif

e tourism, backwater holidays and mountain activities be identified. An year later in October India has more number of tourist pouring in to visit the national parks. The industry by now had started sustaining a substantial amount of people.The recent news is that Taj Hotels have entered into a treaty with Conservation Corporation Africa to promote wildlife tourism in India.

Present Situation

In India, the Wildlife Tourism industry is one of the most progressive. In 2006 talks of having policies to align wildlife in the country were in circulation. They wanted to assign this to think tanks which could help adopt the African Safari Model. By 2007, eco tourism was a properly introduced concept, which gained momentum but marketing of wildlife tourism was even then done poorly. The ways were unscientific and unsystematic. The wildlife is abundant in the country but still there are improper mans to exploit their real potential.

Vibrant Colors of India – Festivals

Incredible India

A very huge country celebrates every day of a year as a festival. People of India celebrate all the festivals with great joy and happiness. Festivals which India celebrates are Diwali, Holi, Rakhi, Eid, New Year, Christmas, Vijaya Dashmi and Onam etc. India is a unique country with national, local, religious and seasonal celebrations which fill various colors in one’s life.

Major Festivals

Guru Purnima: Celebrated in the month of Ashadh – July or August according to Hindu, Guru Purnima is celebrated in honor of the birth of Maharishi Veda Vyasa. On this day Gurus are worshipped by their disciples. Especially, this fest is celebrated in the ashram of Sivananda, Rishikesh.

Raksha Bandhan: The festival of love, compassion, sacrifices and protection, Rakhi is a holy thread of protection decorated with the love of a sister for her brother. In the month of Shravan – July or Sugust, Rakhi is celebrated mostly in north and western region of India. It is also renowned in other parts of India.

Ganesh Chaturthi: This festival is devoted to Ganesh. Devotional songs, dances, drum beats are the main parts of procession and hence this fest becomes more energetic. It is celebrated on Bhadarva Sud 4^th mostly in the states such as Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Janamashtami: Known as Krishnastami or Gokulastami, Janamashtami is a festival dedicated to Lord Sri Krishna. On this day, devotees do fast, bhajans and puja. An idol of lord is offered bhog full of Fruits, kheer, pedha, milk, and milk products. The main attraction of Janamashtami is chappan bhog- 56 dishes which are offered to Bal Gopal. This is celebrated in months of August-September.

Radhasthami: Radhasthami is closely linked with the divine mystery of Sri Radha-Krishna. The idea and spiritual importance is associated with legends. On this day, Radha Krishna is attractively embellished with flowers. Devotees worship Radha along with Lord Krishna in August- September.

Nagapanchami: A festival dedicated to snake-god, Nagpanchami comes on the fifth day (panchami) of the fortnight. On the fifth day of Shravan, people worship Nāga Devata. Devotees visit temples worship the snakes. Snakes are offered milk and silver jewelry to protect from all evils. People fast on this day. This festival is celebrated from July to August. Mostly, Punjab and Bengal celebrated this fest to the fullest.

Sri Ramanavami: Dedicated to lord Rama, this festival comes on the ninth day of the month Chaitra – April. The festival is associated with the birth of Rama. The chief attraction in this procession is decorated chariot especially in states such as Bihar and U.P.

Diwali - the Festival of Lights: Festival of Lights is one of the major festivals of India. People celebrate this fest with great joy and excitement in the month of October or November. During Diwali people visit the places of their relatives and greet for New Year. Lakshmi goddess of wealth is welcomed in the decorated houses with lamps and diyas. People wear new clothes, fire crackers offer sweets to their friends and relatives. People of all the regions celebrate this fest.

Basant Panchami: An advent of spring, Basant Panchami is feted as Saraswati Puja. Devotees gain blessings from this goddess. This festival occurs in the month of January-February. During this festival, yellow color is given major importance. Worshippers visit temples and do prayers to several gods. Women prepare kesar halwa. On this festival, Sarswati is adorned especially in Bengal.

Holi - Festival of Colour: Holi is celebrated with great joy and wild abandon. It is also known as a spring harvesting festival. On this day people lit bonfire. They sing songs and dance around bonfire. This festival is not only for children but elders also celebrate this fest with spraying colorful colors. This festival needs big time planning. Baskets and barrels are filled colorful balloons in which water is filled. This festival is celebrated in March in the states especially in Rajasthan, Gujarat Maharashtra.

Mahashivaratri: The history of this fest is linked with lord of Mount Kailas-Lord. During this festival, only cold water and leaves of bael are offered. According to history, other traditional offerings are also served. Worshippers use milk and Panchamruta – a blend of curd, milk, ghee, honey and sugar. Lord Shiva is worshipped as the god of adjournment. Mahashivaratri is celebrated in the month of February or March. Major states like Rajasthan, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh celebrate this festival.

A realm of various traditions and cultures, India appears as light with its splendid festivals. It is rich in its diversity of festivals. Indians take part with harmony in each and every festival; they enjoy freedom to practice any religion in India. With lot of excitement and prosper, Indian festivals are celebrated.