Sikkim’s Gangtok: The Place where great journeys begin
There are places, without question, where you should be - even if it’s a great distance away. Because it is apparent that in situations where “you have to take a break”, there’s no substitute for your direct, personal attention. What other destination could you possibly look up in your travel journal when you have Sikkim, inviting you to indulge in the most beautiful imaginings of days worth being called a vacation.
An independent kingdom until 1975, unknown to the world has now opened up in all its capacity to share the natural grandeur and pleasure of this astonishing land. Fascinating culture, beautiful hills, stunning countryside, meandering rivers, majestic mountains, good food, enchanting lakes and hospitality unmatched in it equivalence, is what Sikkim has to offer to its visitors.
Sikkim is bounded by Bhutan to its east, Nepal to its West and China to its north. The southern boundary is shared with the state of West Bengal. The topography of Sikkim is such that the entire state is covered with beautiful hills and mountains. Not just a tourism destination, it is also a paradise for naturalist and environmentalists owing to its wealth of flora and fauna. There have been many expeditions related to zoological and botanical research leading to the discovery of a number of plants and animals. It is also the spiritual center for Buddhists all over the world and has around 250 monasteries, each having its own peculiar history and traditions.
Gangtok is the heart of all activities and is the capital of Sikkim. You will have to reach Gangtok, for unless you get here, you will have much difficulty reaching other parts of the state. Standing at an elevation of 5,480 feet, overlooked by the majestic Mount Khangchendzonga, Gangtok is perched on a hilltop, stretching wide as if covering the whole mount and making it glow at nighttime like a reaction of some scientific experiment. When you are here, security is the last thing that you’ll have in mind because there is no trouble at all. You can walk in the streets at midnight and you are still safe. There are many hotels, guesthouses and resorts to house the ever growing number of visitors. A number of fine traditional and multi cuisine restaurants, Discotheques and lounges are all in the vicinity of the town. Taxi service is readily available so mobility is not a problem either. After all Gangtok is not just another dead town, it is a vivacious place to spend your vacation.
The adjoining areas around Gangtok are of historical and religious significance and visiting these places will give you an insight into its history, culture and beauty. It is a point where visitors make way to their further destination for tours and treks however when you are here you should go sightsee and make the most of this amazing place.
Tashi view point which is a 20 minutes drive from the town was built by the late Chogyal (King) of Sikkim; the point commands a panoramic view of the Khangchendzonga Range and the hills of north Sikkim. You should be here early in the morning to witness the sunrise. The early sunrays hit the mountain range and light up the peaks one after another with respect to their altitude. The experience is overwhelming when you see the mountains glow amber taking you to a higher level of spirituality and contentment. Though you would want to stay here forever, there are many places that you can visit while you are in this part of Gangtok.
Ganesh Tok is just about ten minutes drive from Tashi View point. It is a small shrine located on a ride which overlooks Gangtok town. From here you can get a bird’s eye view of the town and myriad hills on the horizon. This small Ganesh temple is popular among the locals and is frequently visited in the morning hours by devotees.
Opposite to Ganesh Tok is the Himalayan Zoological Park covering an area of 205 hectares which is locally known as Bulbuley. Though a road is built and can take you through the park, vehicles are strictly prohibited inside the park. While inside the park you might catch a glimpse of the adorable Red Panda which is the state animal and is also listed under the endangered species list. In a semi natural habitat the animals here roam about freely without any fear of poachers. There is plenty of food and protection; however you are not guaranteed to see the animals because they normally shy away from humans.
Enchey Monastery is located on a hilltop and is quite close to Ganesh Tok. Enchey monastery means ‘solitary temple’ and true to its name the monastery is rather secluded by the greenery of its compound. This monastery was built around 200 years was blessed by Lama Druptob Karpo, who was a great tantrik known for his flying prowess. Legend has it that the great Lama is believed to have flown from Maenam hill which is a hill in south Sikkim to the very spot where the monastery stands now. This monastery is also famous for its Chaam dance (mask) which is organized once every year in the month of January.
You cannot miss the flower show which is on for the entire year. The show is held below the Palace Ridge Park which is about 5 minutes drive from the town. The show has now become an important platform to showcase the floral treasures of the Sikkim. A special competition is organized annually during the springtime where flowers from different parts of the state and the adjoining areas are displayed. This event is truly a bonanza for flower enthusiasts.
Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center also locally known as Rumtek Gompa (monastery) is situated in the hill adjacent to Gangtok. It is about an hours drive through the beautiful countryside. The Gompa was built by His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa in 1960 and is an important pilgrimage site for the Kargyudpa sect of Tibetan Buddhist all over the world. It is believed that the monastery has a huge collection of some of the most unique manuscripts and scriptures. It also has the rarest of religious art objects. Very close to the present monastery there is another monastery which is called the Old Rumtek Monastery built by the 9th Karmapa in 1730 and was destroyed in fire which was later rebuilt to its present state.
Rumtek monastery organizes the Mahakala Chaam (spiritual mask dance) once a year in the month of February. This is an extravaganza of enigmatic music, graceful moves, color and intricately painted masks. This event is witnessed by a huge congregation of Buddhist of the Kagyurpa sect and tourists, especially foreigners who gather once a year just for this extraordinary dance.
You should also visit the Directorate of Handicraft if you want to see the age old tradition of craft and weaving. The traditional weaving, painting and carvings are taught by masters to younger generation of craftsmen keeping alive skills passed on through centuries. Here you can actually see how traditional carpets are weaved and masks carved. You may even want to pick some for your friends and family back home.
If you are in Sikkim and you haven’t visited Tsomgo/Changu Lake, you haven’t seen it all. This lake is situated high up in the mountain, 40 kilometers from Gangtok. The lake remains frozen during the winter season. Changu Lake is revered as the holiest lake in Sikkim. The lake is about a kilometer long and somewhat oval in shape. It serves as a stoppage point for the various migatory birds and ducks and more importantly it is home to the Brahmini ducks. It’s an amazing place with breathtaking views around almost everywhere. There are a number of stalls run by the local people where you can refresh yourself with a hot cup of tea, a much needed beverage in the cold up here. There are yak in the lakeside and you can enjoy a yak ride high up in an altitude of 12,210 feet. A picture with the amiable beast will be your souvenir from this trip.
And if you have never seen China and its red army, this is you opportunity to see the communist china and its army. The Indo-China border Nathula is just 14 kilometers from Changu Lake. The road to Changu Lake and Nathula is rather scary as you cut through the high hills but the scene enroute is simply incredible with the mountains so close, clad with snow and clouds just above you, the word is just ‘awesome’. Though the road seems scary at times when you see the river down below and it looks like a thread, be assured the drivers here are very skilled and will make you feel comfortable as if you are driving on a 6 lane highway.
In the evenings the market place widens as vehicles are not allowed entry after 5 pm. The market becomes abuzz with tourist and local people making it a fun place to hang around. The market stretch is the only “litter and spit free zone” in India, You are cautioned, if you are caught spitting and littering here, you will be fined. You can visit the local curio and traditional stores pick souvenirs of your trip and if that’s not enough there are good pubs, lounge bars and discotheques for party goers around the town and excellent restaurants if you just want to spend a peaceful evening with your family.
Best time to visit:
April — mid July; September — November
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By: Ashish Pradhan.
Visions n’ Vistas.
Welcome to the magnificent vistas, the wondrous pulse of ancient religious, and the over powering magic that fills the crystalline air!
Nepal is a land of rich bio and cultural diversities. Its exquisite beauty has lur ed citizens from all over the world to share her natural and cultural treasures. Nestled strategically between Tibet and India, it is presently a dynamic living classroom for sustainable development, ecological restoration and cultural preservation. Presently, micro-financing projects supporting the women are setting an example worldwide for positive development.
Upper Dolpo – A forbidden kingdom Valley.
The Himalayas, roof top of the world, is a magical place where the magnificence of the world’s highest mountains is mirrored in the rugged beauty and unique Bhatia culture of the people who live in their shadow.
Upper Mustang – a land of ancient civilizations
On the border of Tibet, this region is only recently opened to outsiders and is home to ancient tribes and contains remote Buddhist and Bon monasteries. Recent explorations have discovered century’s old Buddhist caves with paintings untouched since the 13th century.
Tibet …. a Himalayan Shangri-La.
Join us in our pilgrimage to Tibet on the ancient caravan route between Kathmandu and Lhasa through hidden valleys, ancient villages and centuries old monasteries. The Buddhist culture permeates every rock in the landscape.
Besides Lhasa, with its world famous Potala Palace and major Buddhist monasteries, we also offer group pilgrimages to Mt. Kailash and Manasarovar Lake where it is said that heaven abides on earth. The four great rivers of Asia, the Indus, Pramaputra, Ganges and Sutlej flow through this region.
A Taste of real Nepal- a cultural immersion-11 Days
This trip offers an experience of the real Nepal. After visiting seven culture world heritage sites, you will experience the reality of life in Pashupati Temple. A highlight of your experience will be riding on an elephant!
Your trip takes you to a wonderful banana palmed valley where the tropical climate ensures your pleasure. Scan the horizon and the 140 kms of majestic Himalayas staggers your imagination.
Holiday of a lifetime in the Himalayas
Anapurna Classic Treks.
Everest Base Camp treks.
Journey to Kanchanjunga.
Chitwan Jungle Safari.
Ghorepani Treks.
Royal Treks.
Jomsom Treks.
Langtang Gosaikunda Treks.
Ancient Heritage tour.
Magic of Himalaya.
Himalayan Holidays.
Himalayan Luxury holidays.
Discover ancient trail.
Maximum Adventure
September 5, 2008 by admin
Filed under Maximum adventure, Nepal
Maximum Adventure
Achieve the ultimate adventure with our MAXIMUM ADVENTURE TOURS which are individually designed tours to meet the expectations of the world’s most ‘ADVENTUROUS TRAVELERS’. Maximum adventure tours can include BUNGEE JUMPING, PARA- GLIDING, MOUNTAINEERING AND EXPEDITIONS and other less known adventures in Nepal.
For our Maximum Adventure Tours we organize anything from a cultural tour of a THANKA PAINTING SCHOOL, to an experience with a trek in the Himalayas. For those who want an experience that is rarely available Himalayan Dreams offers mountain climbing expeditions led by an experienced Sherpa guides and climbers to mountains that have yet to be assaulted by any global climbers.
Come with and experience the thrills of the Himalayas !
Paragliding In Pokhara.
After breakfast at the Hotel transfer to the paragliding take-off spot.Tandem flying involves a pilot flying with a passenger. Both have separate harness that are attached to each other and the wing. Paragliding harnesses are built for comfort and safety, they feel more like an armchair. Once launched the passenger just sits back, relaxes and takes in the epic scenery. Even taking pictures is not a problem. Due to the portable nature and easy launch characteristics of a paraglider (they fit into a rucksack). We can take them anywhere and fly them from most mountains in Nepal.
There are different types of flights as follows:
Phewa Tal view: In the morning and late afternoon these 15-20 minutes flights give you a taste of un-powered flight, taking you over Pokhara lake and then landing by a Lakeside bar.
Cloud buster: This midday flight gives you the thrill of high flight as we thermal up above Sarangkot in the company of eagles and vultures, 30-40 minutes. We land by the lake.
Cross - Country: This offers you the chance to experience flying from one valley to another. Using thermals, clouds and birds to guide us, we take you on an unforgettable journey north of Pokhara towards the big mountains. We fly up to 2 hours and return to Pokhara in the afternoon. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara.
Note: Due to limited number of Paragliders, the flight is subject to availability of the paragliders.
Ultra light aircraft flight in Pokhara
Aircraft and its safety: These aircraft’s are manufactured in Russia and are completed with the Rotax 58 engines. The operational speed ranges from 50 km/h to 130km/h.These are two-seater plane which carries one pilot one passenger each in every flight. These aircrafts can fly for four hours and reach the height of 5000 meters and fly 300 km at a stretch. Its high aerodynamic qualities. allow this delta wing aircraft to perform long flights with engine turned off. It is uniquely designed and filled with ballistic parachute system, which will enable the aircraft to land safely during emergencies
Note: Due to limited number of aircrafts, the flight is subject to availability of the aircraft.
Trekking to Annapurna
Trekking to Annapurna
Crossing innumerable ups and downs through lush evergreen forest up to astonishing altitude variations and ecological diversity of amazing Annapurna makes everyone completely fresh and rejuvenated mentally. Among the many tourism-related activities, trekking is a modern-day adventure and leisure activity in its refined form.
Travel by foot, whether it is a languid stroll or a quick-paced walk with purposeful strides in order to reach a particular destination within a set time frame is indeed a trekking. The terms – “trekking” and “hiking” – are directly attributed to “hill walking“. Trekking – long, hard, mountain walking – is nowadays more synonymous to on-foot excursions in Nepal. A trekking course follows the paths from village to village crossing deep valleys and mountain ridges, and staying overnight in one village after another.
The Annapurna Sanctuary leads you among the valleys surrounded by enormous peaks, out of barren plateaus. The combination of high alpine valleys, lush jungles, quaint villages, wide variety of species of orchids, rhododendron and birds reflects the land of unique diversity. The Sanctuary is a hidden glacial hollow, which shimmers like a jewel in the mountains. For thousands of years, many people from diverse ethnic backgrounds have carved a lifestyle out of its steep terraces.
This is a famous trekking destination. The recent data indicate that nearly 64 per cent of the trekkers choose this destination because of the best and splendid Himalayan panorama of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt Annapurna South (7219 m), Hiunchuli (6441 m), Mt. Fishtail (6907 m), Annapurna III (7555 m), Mt Annapurna IV (7525 m), Lamjung Himal (6980 m) and hundreds of other magnificent peaks. Pokhara, a lake city, is the starting and ending point for this trek.
The trek can be organized in two ways – teahouse and tented camp treks. The tea house trek means staying at local inns along the trail. During the trek you are served food in cozy drawing rooms with kerosene heater under the table; and the tented camp trek means you trek with all necessary camping gears. The cook, porters and their assistance will provide you all as you carry everything. The advantage of this trek is that you can stay wherever you want.
Every year hundreds and thousands of people from all over the world visit Annapurna and explore the fascinating natural beauty and breathtaking view of panoramic mountains.
Equipment, clothing, health safety and security:
Trekking to Annapurna, which starts from Pokhara – the tourist hub of Nepal – does not cost much as compared to other adventure activities. Lots of fine lodges during the trail serve you with their warm hospitality. Most of the foreigners choose Annapurna for their trekking destination because of its accessibility by both plane and several luxurious tourist buses (to Pokhara). The trekkers needn’t be fully equipped as the required things are easily available along the trails. The main emphasis should be given to keep warm and dry while at the same time maintaining lightweight. Fleece jackets, woolen hat, pants or trousers are adequate. Medicine shops are available on the way during the high season, but it is advised to carry first aid kit. Nepal is a safe country to trek, provided the basic rules are observed. One should not trek alone, follow rules, do not display wealthy ornaments, keep belongings secure and within sight. Before going to trek, personal information and trekking planning should be registered.
The autumn season is the dawn of the trekking season. When I was there last, the panoramic view was just hiding behind the cloud due to heavy rainfall and foggy weather. People had been staying at Ghorepani (2800 m) for best view. Enrico and Shana, two tourists from London, were disappointed for the first three days of their trekking but the weather favored them later.
Michael Lareuz from France says, “When I feel myself mentally sick of over- work I pack my backpack and run to Annapurna for relaxation.” Annapurna hypnotized me during my first visit in November last year. “What an amazing beauty!” exclaims Stephanie Marshall from London. Carlos Esparta from Spain enthusiastically expresses his experience, “I don’t have even a single word to explain, because my words never suffice the explanation of its (mesmerizing) beauty”.
Some bitter facts:
Some trekkers this time were bit disappointed because they were charged from both sides – the government and the Maoists. The government charges Rs. 2000 per person and Maoists charged them US$ 15. So they have to pay slightly more than Rs. 3000 to secure trekking permits. Because of adverse political situation of the country, tourism business is receiving major setback. Some travel and trekking agencies are doing well, whereas some are even in the breaking point.
Enrico and Shana later on expressed their experience, “We had a dream to come to visit Annapurna. Now the dream has come true. We felt completely safe and secured during our 15-day holiday in Nepal. Sincere Nepali people, wealthy natural resource and rich cultural heritage are worth of it.”
