Dwarka Parichay - Dwarkadhish Temple

Among India's many different pilgrimage sites, particular ones are traditionally viewed as being especially holy for a variety of different mythological reasons. Preeminent among this listing are the Sapta Puri or Seven Sacred Cities and the four Dhamas or “Divine Abodes” (for more information on the Dhamas, see the photos and text for Rameshvaram, on this web site). The Seven Sacred Cities of Ayodhya, Mathura, Haridwar, Banaras, Kanchi, Ujjain and Dwarka are known as Mokshada, meaning ‘Bestower of Liberation’, and these sites are believed to confer liberation upon all persons who die within their boundaries. Dwarka, one of these seven sacred cities, is also listed among the Four Divine Abodes.

Seldom visited by westerners because of its remote location in the western state of Gujarat, the fascinating and extremely beautiful Jagatmandir temple is bordered on one side by the ocean coast and on the other side by the town of Dwarka. One of India's oldest and most venerated pilgrimage sites, Dwarka's archaeological and historical background is shrouded in mystery. Mythologically, Dwarka - or Dvaravati as it is known in Sanskrit - was the site chosen by Garuda, the Divine Eagle, who brought Krishna here when he departed Mathura. Krishna founded the beautiful city and lived there the remaining years of his life until he died (according to legend) in 3102 BC. Scholars confer that the oldest parts of the Jagatmandir temple may only date to the reconstructions of the Gupta period in 413 AD.

In the 7th century the sage Shankaracharya established four great monasteries in the cardinal directions of the country (Sringeri in the south, Puri in the east, Joshimath in the north, and Dwarka in the west). This emphasis on Dwarka further increased its importance as a pilgrimage destination. The original temples were destroyed during the 11th century by Muslim armies; frequently rebuilt, they continued to be attacked by the Muslims through the 15th century. The existing temple of Jagatmandir, also known as Sri Dwarkadish, dates from a 1730 rebuilding. It is 52 meters tall, and enshrines an idol called Sri Ranchhodrayji. The temple stands five storeys tall and is built on 72 pillars.

Dwarka is sanctified as the place where Lord Vishnu slew the demon Shankhasura. The Puranas mention the 12 Jyotirlingas or columns of light representing Lord Shiva which manifested in different parts of the country. One of these is located in Dwarka and is known as the Nageshwar Mahadev. The Jagat Mandir or Nij Mandir forms the sanctum of the Dwarkadish temple and dates back to 2500 years. Jagat Mandir has its own hall of audience and a conical spire. The roof of the hall is supported by 60 columns and the main temple rises five storeys high. The spire rises to a height of 157 feet and is richly carved. One of the most popular temples in Dwarka is that of Rukmini, Krishna's wife, considered an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and beauty. The Sharad Peetha, one of the four Maths established by Jagatguru Shankaracharya, is also situated here.

Rain on the "Ocean of Milk"

If you are anxious to know whatever I am saying is true or a stupid fantasy!! Lemme be very clear that whatever I said it's absolutely true.. Drive down to 60 kms from Panaji (capital city of Goa) you will be amazed to see a milky white high, tall waterfalls i.e "Dudhsagar" which literally means "Ocean of Milk".

The Dudhsagar waterfalls are located in the Sanguem district of Goa near the Goa-Karnataka border. It is located at a distance of around 60 kilometers from Margao and can be reached easily by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from either Margao or Panaji. Dudhsagar waterfalls of Goa have the distinction of being ranked as the fifth highest waterfall in India and they list in the Top 100 highest waterfalls in the world.

The Dudh Sagar waterfalls have a milky white appearance which is why it is named as Dudhsagar which literally means "Ocean of Milk". The Dudhsagar waterfalls plunge down from a staggering height of 2000 feet. The waterfall is located amongst lush green surroundings of the forests of Western Ghats which is what makes it even more scenic and beautiful. During monsoons the Dudhsagar waterfall becomes very lively and attracts tourists in hordes.

There is a myth associated with Dudh sager waterfalls. Years ago there lived a powerful and rich king on the top of a mountain in the Western Ghats along the Goan frontier. He lived in a lavish palace made of pure ivory and embedded by precious stones. Near this palace, there were luxuriant gardens abounding in a vast variety of flowers.

At one end of the forest, which fringed the king's palace, there was a picturesque lake. In the panoramic setting of this lake, the king's daughter, accompanied by her ladies-in-waiting, went to bathe and to sip sugared milk which one of her maids served to her in a pure gold jug.

One day, while she was sipping at the milk, a prince, who was passing by, stopped on hearing the sound of people nearby. Immediately, the princess poured the milk in the pond to shield her body from the glances of the stranger. It is believed that the sugared milk that was poured by the virtuous and modest princess still comes flowing down in torrents along that side of the mountain.

Dudh Sagar waterfalls with their strange, mystical fascination are a dream come true. The uneclipsed vision, furnished by this native waterfall as it plunges over crag-covered precipes and stupendous steeps, belies description.

Many tourists who visit Dudh Sagar prefer swimming in the calm waters. It is quite safe to swim there provided one is careful enough. The Dudhsagar waterfalls provide a breathtaking view from the top and they look scintillating during the crack of dawn. Those who love adventure and thrill can always try to climb to the head of the waterfalls though the rough path full of rocks, vegetation and water. It may take a couple of hours but it will definitely be worth it! So if you want to spend an entire day in serenity, come to Dudhsagar waterfalls of Goa.

Blessed with Peace and Calmness - Almora

"In these hills, nature's hospitality eclipses all men can ever do. The enchanting beauties of the Himalayas, their bracing climate and the soothing green that envelopes you leaves nothing more to be desired. I wonder whether the scenery of these hills and the climate are to be surpassed, if equalled, by any of the beauty spots of the world. After having been nearly three weeks in Almora Hills, I am more than ever amazed why our people need go in Europe in search of health." - Mahatama Gandhi

"These mountains are associated with the best memories of our race: Here, therefore, must be one of centers, not merely of activity, but more of calmness of meditation, and of peace and I hope someone to realize it." - Swami Vivekananda

Almora, a picturesque district in the Kumaun region, East of Uttarakhand in India, with a breathtaking panoramic view of Himalayas, summons tourists worldwide to its alluring grandeur of natural beauty. Famous for its rich cultural heritage, unique handicrafts, sumptuous cuisine and magnificent wildlife, coupled with an easy accessibility, Almora promises its tourists a visit full of fun and unforgettable moments.

The region of Kumaun hills is rich in folk lore and the folk tales of Ajua-Bafaul, Narsingh and Ghana, Purukh Pant and the tales of Chivalry of Gangnath, and the mythical tales of Haru-Sem, Golu,Bin-bhat, Ganwara, Kalsem, Churmal Airi, Pari and Jhorra Folk Dance ( Photograph : Anoop Shah )Anchari are prominent. Many of these tales in the form of lallads are sung in diverse melodies and Nyoli, Bhagnaula, Chapeli, Jhorra, Chanchari, Barrey, Shakun Geet and Banara belong to this group. The folk songs of this region make a poetic description of the glory of the Himalayan Region, the inherent charm of Nandadevi, Panchhchuli, Trishul and Chiplakot and the beauty of various aspects of nature including the luxuriant vegetation and the dense forest of Deodar, Banj (Oak) and Shiling Kafal, Burans (Rhododendrone) etc. The folk songs also frequently allude to the fields, forests, rivers, streams, rivulets, fauna and the snow clad peaks.

The Township of Almora is the district headquarter and has all the facilities for a tourist of twenty first century. This ancient hill station is reputed for it's health giving climate and is perched on a five Km. long horse saddle shape ridge in between the river Kosi and Suyal and has been a cultural and political region of Kumaun for almost four hundred years, settled by Chand Rajas and nurtured by the British.
One can have a panoramic view of the snowy peaks of Himalayas on any clear day and in addition a glimpse of the township with it's tiled roofed houses and paved streets would take you to the sixteenth century in some thoughtful moment.

Nearby places of tourist interest where an excursion can be made within a day are Bright End Corner's unforgettable sunset, Chitai temple with it's unique collection of brass bells of all sizes, gifted to the temple by devotees since centuries, Kasar Devi which houses many Europeans who fell in love with the place so much that they settle down, Nanda Devi Temple the cultural and religious center of Almora for now hundreds of years and Lala Bazar a unique market of more than two hundred years with paved streets of stone.

On the Lap of Himalaya "Kasauli"

Kasauli is a small town in the state of Himachal Pradesh located at an altitude of 1,927 m. The town is 77 km from Shimla and 70 km from Chandigarh. Legend says that it came into existence after Lord Hanuman placed his feet here in order to advance on to the Sanjeevani hill. The place where the lord actually kept his feet is believed to be at a hillock which is 300 m high.

 
Historically, Kasauli is one of those hill stations that was developed by the British Empire during its peak period in India. It is one of those places that, despite its beauty still has yet to find itself prominently on the tourist's map. In fact, it is very good for all those who yearn to spend some time alone with their family or, for that matter, even themselves.
If you happen to visit the town during the off-season (November to February), it is quite likely that you will not come across any person for a long while on your walk. Still, you will be accompanied on your walk by the sweet and soothing voices of the birds along with the gentle rustling of leaves.

Places to See:

Monkey Point: The highest point in Kasauli called Monkey point is just 4-km from the Kasauli bus stand. The Monkey Point commands an excellent view of the distant plains of Chandigarh region and the river Satluj, tracing a silvery trail through the scene. A small temple is also situated on the top of the hill, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. According to a legend, at the end of Ramayana when Lord Hanuman was returning from the Himalayas after obtaining Sanjivany Booty or the Magical Herb, his foot touched the hill and thus the top of hill is in a foot shape. On a clear and starry night the gorgeous view of Chandigarh can be seen from the Monkey Point.

Sanawar: Just 6-km from Kasauli, Sanawar houses one of the best schools in the country. The Lawrence school is almost one hundred-years-old and a major attraction of the town.

Dharampur: Just 15-km from Kasauli on the National Highway No.22, Dharampur is situated. Amidst the healthy air of the fragrant pines, Dharampur has one of the best hospitals in India for the cure of tuberculosis. It is also connected by Kalka-Shimla railway line.

Sabathu: A little cantonment town has a Gurkha fort built in the early years of the 19th century, situated at an altitude of 1,437m. This cantonment town quartered the British soldiers at the time of British Empire. A diversion road from Dharampur 15-km away leads to the Sabathu town.

Dagshai: Another little cantonment at an altitude of 1,925m just 19-km from Kasauli, it is accessible by a link road, which diverts from Dhrampur. Dagshai is perched on a small hill and comprises of a military public school and numerous military barracks.

Mandarmani - an unexplored sea beach

Mandarmani is an obvious choice, if an unexplored sea beach far from the hustle and bustle of your city is what you have in mind. Distinctly different from Digha, the other sea beach in West Bengal’s kitty, Mandarmani will be cherished for its serenity and its beach resorts. Digha beach and Mandarmani are in close proximity.

Mandarmani is a large and fast developing seaside resort village in the state of West Bengal, India. It lies in East Midnapore district and at the northern end of the Bay of Bengal. Mandarmani is connected to Kolkata/Howrah by a highway. It is argued to be the longest driveable beach in India. Geomorphologically, this area has relatively low waves than nearer tourist beach of Digha. However still this beach is deposition with formation of neo dunes in several areas specially around Dadanpatrabar.

From Contai this can be travelled through a place called Chaulkhola.

This is a drive-in beach. It is an ideal place to relax, far away from the hustle and bustle of Kolkata. The sunrise and sunset are a treat to the eyes. The peaceful atmosphere brings a sense of relief to one's soul.

It is beautiful sea beach in East Midnapore with more lodge and restrurent.more people comes for picnic.The shiny weather attract tourist.Winter season is very vast season in Mondarmani.

Sunderban - Den of Royal Bengal Tiger

Sunderbans national park is located at the South Eastern tip of the 24 Paraganas district in the state of West Bengal. It got its name from one of the mangrove plants known as Sundari (Heritiera Minor). The Sunderbans are a part of the world's largest delta formed by the rivers Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna. Sunderbans is a vast area covering 4262 square kms in India alone, with a larger portion in Bangladesh. 2585 sq. kms of the Indian Sundarban forms the largest Tiger Reserve and National Park in India. The total area of the Indian part of the Sundarban forest, lying within the latitude between 21°13'-22°40' North and longitude 88°05'-89°06' East, is about 4,262 sq km, of which 2,125 sq km is occupied by mangrove forest across 56 islands and the balance is under water.

The park is surrounded by a buffer zone of 885 square kilometers. This also mainly consists of mangrove forests. The core area of the park has its own natural boundaries with the river Matla on its West, the river Haribhanga on its East, with Netidhopani and Gosba in the North.
The four Sunderbans national parks have been lumped together as they all share common features of the estuarine mangrove ecosystem. The main attractions of the Sunderbans are the Tiger, of which the delta harbor large reptiles like the Monitor Lizard, Estuarine Crocodile and the Olive Ridley Turtle, for which there is a conservation program in the Indian park. The Leopard, Indian Rhinoceros, Javan Rhinoceros, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer and Water Buffalo have all become locally extinct from the delta in recent decades.

Tourist Places:

Sajnekhali: Sajnekhali has a bird sanctuary and is the only place to have a accommodation. There is a Mangrove Interpretation Centre here. There are watchtowers at Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, Netidhopan, Haldi and a number of other places.

Bhagbatpur Crocodile Project: This is a crocodile breeding farm. This place is accessible through Namkhana. Bhagabatput is a hatchery of the largest estuarine crocodile in the world.

Piyali: It is 72 kms from Calcutta and is a gateway to the Sunderban. It is being developed as a tourist complex.

A thrilling cruise through the largest estuarine delta in the world and the biggest colony of the `Royal Bengal Tigers' - the Sundarbans. These evergreen mangrove forests pulsate with a myriad forms of life. Above the Kingfisher and White-bellied Sea eagle add a brilliant burst of colour. The sea creeps in at high tide. The forests float. The ebbing waters reveal nature so alive on the glistening mud flats. The land is split by numerous rivers and water channels all emptying into the Bay of Bengal. Venture further to discover a rich tribal folklore. It is believed that Bonbibi, the goddess of the forest, protects the wood-cutters, honey-collectors and fishermen on their hazardous missions. For, as the saying goes, `Here the Tiger is always watching you'.

Delta-forest home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. The Ganges, which is rightly known as the Ganga, carries silt and fertility from its ice-melt sources in the high Himalayas, through the lush plains of India, past the riverine port of Calcutta. Here, however, it is no longer the Ganga because it has become one of the major distributors. For, in the flat Grey-clay lands of Bengal, the great river splits into numerous channels, dividing and sub-dividing like the roots of a tree, till it pours through many mouths into the Bay of Bengal.

Best Season:
The best time to visit Sunderbans is during winters between December and February although the park is open for longer from September to March. This is the period when the maximum migratory birds are also present here.

How to Reach:
The Sunderbans are not easily accessible. To get to the Sunderbans national park in India the nearest airport is Calcutta, the nearest railway station is Canning, and the nearest town is Gosaba. From the park headquarters at Canning take the country motor launch (5 hours) to Sajnekhali.

Sanskrit Village in 21st Century - Mathur, Karnataka

In the era of US English and Jazzy, fast pace life, how would you feel if somebody speaks Sanskrit with you. I know it's very rare to meet people like this, but if you want to feel this amazing experience, you can visit an abode village of Karnataka.

Matturu (ಮತ್ತೂರು) in Kannada,also spelt Mathur/Mathooru etc) is a scenic village on the outskirts of Shivamogga (Shimoga) town in Karnataka. Mattur is known for having Sanskrit language as their primary language. Villagers use Sanskrit here for their day to day conversation and not just during poojas. The town also is a hub for those aspiring to learn Vedas. If these things doesn’t interest you, Mattur is also a very scenic place from pure tourist perspective. If you’re traveling to or Via Shimoga and have couple of hours to spare, a quick visit to Mattur can be memorable.

One of the potential tourist interests in Mattur is a small Shiva temple built inside a nice garden (inaugurated in 2005 by the then state governor) with flowing freshwater stream nearby. Couple of other temples (Someshwara temple and Lakshmikeshava temple) on the banks of Tunga River are also good. Drive through tall Arica nut trees will be a bonus.

That Sanskrit is the language of Gods need not apply to Mathoor. It is the vernacular of a majority of the 5,000 residents of this quaint, sleepy hamlet situated a little over 4 kms from Shimoga. Away from the hustle-bustle of the district headquarters, Mathoor sits pretty with a garland of arecanut and coconut plantations along the Tunga river, which has now been swelling thanks to a good monsoon.

If you’re heading there early morning, you’ll also see villagers carrying on their bicycles real fresh tender coconuts, just off the tree, to be sold in town.

I am sure you all have seen Bajaj Discover Ads on TV where they featured 'Mathur' village as an unusual places in India.

It's Raining in Cherrapunji

"Let the rain kiss you. Let the rain beat upon your head with silver liquid drops. Let the rain sing you a lullaby".... If you want to sing these 3 lines for your sweetheart with the perfect ambiance of romantic weather and with lovely tingle sound of rain, be in Cherrapunji.
High above misty valleys and foaming rivers, ensconced in swirling clouds and perched on an escarpment, lies Cherrapunji (4,500 feet). This is a stunning location and the year-round rain earned Cherrapunji coveted entry long ago into the Guinness Book of World Records as the wettest place on earth, the place where the rainfall can be recorded in feet rather than in millimeters. 

It is a subdivisional town in East Khasi Hills district in the Indian state of Meghalaya.

History:

As in days gone by, the faces of Cherrapunji change not with the seasons, but with the pattern of rainfall. The heaviest downpours span approximately five long months-from May until September. The clouds then are dark and menacing, full blown with rain, which descends earthwards with the stinging force of a whiplash.

Tour to Cherrapunji Throughout these months, Cherrapunji is transformed into a sea of tiny, gushing rivulets. The raindrops beat incessantly on rooftops and treetops creating a compelling tattoo of awesome sounds, which cannot be savored anywhere else but in the Northeastern states. These are also the 'record-making' months, which contribute to records such as the stunning 22,987 mm of rainfall in 1861. The annual average rainfall of Cherrapunji stands today at 10,871 millimeters. Barely 10 km from Cherrapunji stands the village of Mawsynram, which has snatched away the heaviest rainfall record, with 12,163 millimeters of rainfall.

With the passage of September, the rhythm of the rain-its main force spent-changes to a gentle patter. And the Khasis and other residents of Cherrapunji, the flora, and the fauna respond to the change in the Rain God's mood. Soft pastel shades begin to appear in skies that were gray all day and rainbows that are a photographer's delight begin to make unexpected guest appearances.

What to See:

Khasi monoliths :- It is located near Mawsmai Falls which is a beautiful labyrinth of underground passages beneath age-old caves. The must visit place for amateur and experienced explorers. Elsewhere around Cherrapunji, Khasi monoliths (stones in memory of their ancestors) lie scattered around.
Noh Kalikai Falls :- Noh Kalikai Falls is located few kilometers to the west of Sohra (Cherrapunji).It is a clear bubbling stream emerges from its steep mountain bed to hurl down a rocky precipice into a deep gorge creating a captivating view of breathtaking beauty. The cascading waterfall compares favourably with the well known Job Falls of South India.
Krem Mawmluh :- The krem mawmluh cave is located about half a km west of Cherrapunji adjacent to the small hamlet of Mawmluh. The cave interestingly has a five-river way with impressive proportions. With a length of 4503 m, this cave is at present and it is the 4th longest cave in the Indian sub continent.
Krem Phyllut :- It is Situated in village Mawsmai to the south of Cherrapunjee.This cave has a large section of fossil passage, two stream ways and three entrances. The length of the cave is 1003 m.

Source: http://www.travelmadeeasy.in/cherrapunji.htm

River Rafting in Uttarakhand

In Garhwal, the sacred river Ganga offers the professional as well as the amateur the exhilaration of whitewater river rafting. The rivers Alakananda & Bhagirathi are the main tributaries of the Ganga and meet Devprayag, frothing from their racy descent. Their waters are grade IV to V, challenging the expert to survive the thrill. Down river from Devprayag, the Ganga changes into a pool drop river.

This stretch of almost 70-kms is a perfect for the amateur and the novice, for here the river offers some fine grade III rapids and two grade IV rapids, the 'WALL' at Bysi and the 'Golf Course' 4-kms. Below Shivpuri village; each followed by deep and placid pools. Sandy beaches line the river at intervals, allowing river rafters to pull up alongside. The slopes on either side are covered with oak, pine, spruce and fir, with the occasional village and its terraced fields dotting the landscape. Wildlife can be sighted at a distance, especially spotted Deer, Monkeys, Leopard, while multi hued butterflies flit among flowering.

Ganges River has always remains a mystery for explorers and full of surprises for the rafters. Ganga near Rishikesh in Uttaranchal is a popular spot for white water river rafting. The whitewater river rafting stretch of the Ganges is from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh where the river has 12 major rapids over 36-kms long, most of which are easily negotiable and some require our expertise

Camel Safari in Thar desert, Jaisalmer

The name Jaisalmer is an addiction in itself. You can see the long stretches of sand dunes as far as your eyes can go. The golden crests and troughs provide you with the sense of limitlessness. It is said while in Rome do as the Romans do. So, why opt for SUV when you have a camel. Take a camel safari to experience the limitless Thar Desert.

The majority of camel safaris start from the desert fort town of Jaisalmer. In most cases, one camel is provided per person and a camel cart accompanies the entourage, laden with food, utensils and other supplies; it's also an option for anyone who gets sick of sitting on a lurching camel. Tents, food, mineral water, mattresses and an escort are invariably provided, and most operators will also make sure that you get a full dose of local entertainment in the evenings. For longer camel safaris, which are spread over a few days, camps are usually set up at night in the vicinity of villages.

The ship of the desert, the camel, was domesticated thousands of years ago primarily for the purpose of making tedious journeys through the unrelenting Thar Desert. You may go for a short safari through a typical Rajasthani village or a long-distance expedition lasting a few days. The best times for travelling are the cooler parts of the day, the mornings and evenings.

The sights en route will captivate you and become a part of your most treasured memories. There may be barren land for as far as the eyes can see. The sea of yellow shimmering sand looks extraordinary. Closer to the village you can see herds of cattle and sheep roaming around purposelessly. Watch the children trotting off to school, while their mothers prepare their afternoon meal on a dung-fire. Stop over for a taste of the authentic Rajasthani food. The hospitable men and women will be at your service, eager to fulfill your every request.

On the Camel Safari, the tourists are required to gear up for the harsh weather of the desert. The safari is designed to suit travelers all across the globe. The tourists may enjoy the traditional cuisine of Rajasthan and listen to the traditional music. Tourists may also participate in the cultural programs hosted in the deserts of Rajasthan. 

Skating at Rohtang Pass

Have you seen the movie, 'Jab We Met'? if yes, you have definitely seen the song 'ye ishq hai..' and the picturesque backdrop of snow and hills. That's Rohtang Pass. if you are in Himachal Pradesh, you can't miss this place. It is the snow point of HP. Manali is the gateway to Rohtang pass beyond which lie the twin valley of Lahaul and Spiti. In winter the mountain slopes are snow clad and they turn into perfect skiing slopes. This point is one of the main attraction for tourists coming to Manali.

About Rohtang Pass:
The Rohtang pass is 51 KM north of Manali and it is located on Manali Keylong Highway at an altitude of 4111 meters ( 13,400 ft ). This pass opens for tourist from April end to October end of the year. The permission to travel on this highway is given by Indian army after they clear the snow and inspect the road for it's fitness and safety for movement of person and the vehicles. The same road connects to Leh Ladakh ( State of Jammu & Kashmir ) from Manali ( state of Himachal Pradesh). Sonepani Glacier and a small lake (Dashahr) are located opposite and left to Rohtang respectively.

Trekking, Skiing and Skating:

 Every one has a way and facility to enjoy with fun - Skating, Bike Skating, Horse skating, Push cart, Tube sliding. some of Our team members tried skating. There are many tibetian to help to learn basic skills of Each game.

Skiing in Himachal Pradesh is best enjoyed in the Rohtang pass which is covered by snow for nine months of the year. In fact, Rohtang pass in Himachal Pradesh is the only site in India, where one can indulge in skiing in the winters as well as autumn. The most important site for skiing in Rohtang pass is Sonapani glacier. Enjoy a holiday in Himachal Pradesh to enjoy the famous Rohtang pass attractions in Himachal Pradesh that involves the popular adventures in Rohtang pass.

So, unwind yourself and enjoy chill breeze and feel the romance of snow at Rohtang Pass valley this summer.

Ganga Aarti at Haridwar

The Ganga Aarti in Hardwar’s Har-ki-Pauri is one of the famous rituals in India. It starts at around 6.30pm after sunset, with large crowds gathered around both the banks of a canal that carries the waters of Ganges. Loud speakers blare songs in praise of Ganga Maiya and Shiva.
The time of Aarti sees a bustle of activity on the ghats. Many babas are seen sitting in corners, hoping to get some donations from the devotees. Men in blue uniform move around with a receipt book, collecting donations that will be used for conducting the Aarti. People keep walking in all direction trying to find a good place to sit or stand. Hawkers sell wick lamps or diyas to float in the Ganges.

Trekking in Kedarnath

Trekking in India can turn out to be one of the most wonderful and adventurous experiences for you if you know the exact place to trek in. If you are in India, you can trek through the beautiful range of Himalayas, Sikkim, Garhwal, Ladakh, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, etc. We all look for an exciting and memorizing vacation but, either due to lack of time or money we tend to cancel or post pond it further. Trekking and related activities not only relaxes our mind and body but, also enables us to discover the thrill of Mother Nature.

Trekking Tour in Kedarnath:
Celebrated in Hindu mythology and religion, the Garhwal Himalayas are said to be the "Abode of the Gods". The river Ganges takes its source in this remote massif, at the sacred shrine of Gangotri, and rushes down to the plains in a torrential fury. Very few trekkers follow this itinerary which will lead to one of the most important spots of Hindu spirituality, where you will experience a strange atmosphere of religious fervour.

From Kedarnath, where hundreds of pilgrims arrive from all regions of India, the path proceeds at first along the sacred Bhagirathi river, then through dense forests and grassy areas as far as Lata. From there it is a 5-hour drive to Gangotri, where the second part of the trek starts. Near Gaumukh, close to the Source of the Ganges, you will experience the strange view of half-naked saddhus in the lotus position, meditating on the bank of the bubbling stream pouring out the glacier. Further up, Tapovan is a grassy area with numerous brooks, surrounded by snowy peaks.

Kedarnath Temple

It is a round-trip itinerary starting in Kedarnath, along the sacred Baghirathi river, then heading west, through dense forests and grassy areas. The northern part of the itinerary will offer magnificent views of several high altitude lakes. Location: Garhwal Himalayas Base: Rishikesh Duration: 10 Days Day 01: Arrive Delhi Arrive Delhi where you will be met and transfered to your hotel. (Hotel B&B)

Day 02: Delhi – Haridwar - Rishikesh by bus (5h).
We will go on a sightseeing tour of Haridwar, which is an important pilgrimage place.

Day 03: Haridwar – Gaurikund (2000m) by bus (9h).

Day 04: Gaurikund – Kedarnath (3600m) in 6h.
This is a steep climb where we will walk with hundreds of pilgrims from all over India. The forest slowly gives way to splendid views of Mount Kedarnath (6940m).

Day 05: Seightseeing in Kedarnath
Kedarnath is one of the most important Indian pilgrimage places. The temple, built in the 8th century and dedicated to the goddess Shiva, is magnificently surrounded with snow-capped peaks.

Day 06: Kedarnath & Gaurikund in 4h.

Day 07: Gaurikund – Maggu(3050m) in 6h.
After a 4-km drive to Sonprayag, we trek upwards through dense forest.

Day 08: Maggu – Panwali Khanta(3150m) in 5h.
After a short climb, we follow a pleasant trail over a flat area, and descend towards the meadows of Panwali Khanta.

Day 09: Panwali Khanta – Ghuttu (1600m) in 6h. We climb up to Khinko La (3500m), then descend through a magnificent tropical forest and rice-fields. Day 10: Ghuttu – Baghi Chatti (2600m) in 5h. We continue our way through forest and rice-fields to a ridge trail. From the top, the view towards Mount Garhwal is quite impressive. Day 11: Baghi Chatti – Budakedar (1530m) in 4h. An easy day, all-downward, through fields and forests. Day 12: Budakedar – Belak Khal (2750m) in 6h. The trail passes through a succession of tiny villages: Agund, Jhala and Pangrana. Magnificent high-alpine panorama.

Day 13: Belak Khal – Lata (1700m) in 3h – 22 Kms Drive to Uttarkashi.

Day 14: Uttarkashi - Rishikesh-155 Kms Drive to Rihikesh. In the Afternoon arrive Rishikesh.

Source: http://www.trekkinginindia.com/trekking-in-garhwal/trekking-in-kedarnath.html