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.

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.

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