Himalayan Treks To Take With Your Friends

1. Annapurna Base Camp:

   
   Height: 8091m (26545ft)
   Duration: 11 Days
   Difficulty Level: Easy
   Best Season: September to November, March to May, December to February
   
   The tenth highest mountain in the world, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is amongst the most enthralling Himalayan treks in the world. Originating from Pokhara, Nepal, the trek takes you through scenic landscapes, rustic villages, evergreen rhododendrons and offers prismatic views of the Himalayas.

2. Bara Bhangal Trek:

   
   Height: 4800m
   Duration: 12 Days
   Difficulty Level: Challenging
   Best Season: June to October
   
   Also known as the ‘Shepherds Tail Trek’, Bara Bhangal Trek originates from Manikaran in Kullu Valley. Passing through high passes, exhilarating terrains, scenic Himalayan vistas and the captivating Spiti Valley, the trek ends with arrival in the Bara Bhangal settlemment of Himmachal Pradesh.

3. Chadar Trek:

   
   Height: 11,123ft
   Duration: 9 Days
   Difficulty Level: Challenging
   Best Season: January to February
   
   Well, this trek needs no introduction! Taking place only during the month of Jan-Feb, it is known to be the most enthralling treks in India; it involves trekking over the Frozen Zanskar River in the Zanskar River in Ladakh.

4. Dodital Lake Trek:

   
   Height: 13616ft
   Duration: 9 Days
   Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
   Best Season: Round the Year
   
   A trek to the Dodital Lake is filled with fun, excitement and adventure! Dodital, which is considered as the birth place of the Lord Ganesha, is known for its exoticness, immaculate beauty and trek friendly ambience.

5. Dzongri Goecha La:

   
   Height: 5,760-14,100ft
   Duration: 13 Days
   Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
   Best Season: March to May
   
   While talking about treks, Sikkim proves to one of the finest destinations in the country. Originating from Yuksom, this trek follows the Rathong Valley and is considered as the gateway to the mighty Khanchendzonga Peak along with other Himalayan Peaks.
   Everest Base Camp (EBC):
6. 
   Height: 18,523ft
   Duration: 18-22 Days
   Difficulty Level: Challenging
   Best Season: February to June, September to November
   
   The fascinating beauty and charm of the Mt Everest has always attracted trekkers from different corners of the world. On this trek that originates from Kathmandu, Nepal, you will be trekking through the ridges of the Himalayas, captivating glaciers, rhododendron and pine forests and much more!
   Gangotri Tapovan:
7. 
   Height: 14,638ft
   Duration: 14 Days
   Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
   Best Season: April (mid) to June, August to October (mid)
   
   Whether you are yearning for thrill and adventure or peace of mind, the Gangotri Tapovan Trek is an ideal trek to get indulged in. Originating from Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand, you can witness spectacular glaciers, craggy terrains, challenging passes and scenic meadows in this trek.

8. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:

   
   Height: 10,531ft
   Duration: 9 Days
   Difficulty Level: Moderate
   Best Season: January to May, October to December
   
   Rising around 10,531ft above the sea level, Poon Hill is an astounding place to witness the magical beauty of the sunrise. This 4-5 days originates in the Himalayan Range of Nepal and takes you through the untouched beauty of Nepal and its pristine beauty.

9. Goecha-la Trek

   
   Height: 16,000ft
   Duration: 11 Days
   Difficulty Level: Easy
   Best Season: April to June
   
   The enchanting valleys of Sikkim are where this trek originates. Taking you through the magical turns and twists of the Himalayan Range, this trek is considered as an ideal experience to witness and enjoy the mesmeric views of the Khanchendzonga Peak and other astounding Himalayan Peaks.
   Har ki Dun Trek
10. 
    Height: 11,675ft
    Duration: 7-8 Days
    Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
    Best Season: March to June, September to November
    
    One of the least explored vicinities, the Har Ki Doon Valley is known for its pristine and untouched beauty. Laced with the amazing views of alpine forests, snow-clad peaks, chestnut, walnut, willow and chinar forests, the trek also offers ample of opportunities for bird watching and enjoy the charm of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Thrilling Experiences Around Bangalore You Can Do On A College Budget

1.  Night Trek at Kunti Betta 

Add one more to your list of crazy midnight adventures. This time around, explore the nocturnal mysteries of Kunti Betta with your friends. Stunning to look at, it is believed that this is the very hill where the Pandavas and Kunti resided during their exile. A rather off-beat experience, you would begin your trek around the wee hours of 1.30am. Reach the peak, relax by the campfire, sleep under the starlit sky and if you wish, enjoy kayaking and swimming the next day. 

2. Coorg Camping

Why stay cooped in the confines of the house when you can explore the fascinating outdoors? And if it is the lack of pocket money holding you back, fret not. You can enjoy this experience amidst rich green, dream like destination of Coorg. It comes at a reasonable price.

Over two days and one night, relish the thrills of camping with a bonfire, visit to the waterfalls and a night walk .

3. Day Outing at Bheemeshwari

Instead of lazing around and doing nothing on a holiday, you can whisk yourself way to Bheemeshwari, where adventure and nature awaits. Resting on the banks of River Cauvery and on the edges of Mutati forest range, Jungle Lodges, Bheemeshwari offers the ideal setting for exciting times.

Unwind by the serene surroundings, spot some wild animals and birds, choose between zip-line, Burma loops, rappelling, kayaking, coracle rides and more. 

4. Wine Tour At Ramnagara

Wondering what a wine tour is doing in the midst of these activities? At a throw away price of around 150 rupees, we had to kind of mention this. If you are of the legal age, enjoy your occasional glass of wine and are curious to know more, then this is your kind of tour. And even if you are not one of them, you can still make a picnic out of it!

After you reach the winsome town of Ramangar District, get to know fun facts about the wine making process, learn to appreciate the drink the professional way. The best part though is you get to sample 5 different types of wine that include Indian and French. Much cheaper than your local pub, don’t you think?

5. Star Gazing and Night Trek in Skandagiri

Now this is an experience worth convincing your parents to break the midnight curfew. you won’t even have to rely on them for the money either. Ideal for thrill seekers and romantics alike, get to encounter night charms as you meander on the moderate and challenging trail of Skandagiri, an ancient mountain fortress near Bangalore.

20 Places You Need to Visit In India With Your Best Friend

1. Pangong Lake, Ladakh

Transporting you to an ethereal place, the Pangong Lake is located in Ladakh. This is a place where unblemished azure water is fringed by rugged mountains while cotton candy clouds float above. Feel the serenity and magic envelope you!

2. Rafting and Camping in Rishikesh

With bursting of vitality and eagerness, twenties is the best time to indulge in adventure sports. Ride the mystical waters of Ganges with rafting in Rishikesh, which is the most famous place for this adrenaline pumping sport. For, you get to raft upon fierce frothing water pouring through rocky terrains and green stretches. To experience the landscape of this mysterious place you can also go camping and undertake other adventure sports.

3. Living Root Bridges, Meghalaya

What seems to appear straight out of a fantasy movie, the Living Root Bridges have to be seen to be believed! Some of these roots are more than hundred feet long and are strong enough to carry the weight of fifty people at one time. Located in Meghalaya, they are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Chadar – The Frozen River Trek

How often does one boast about walking on a frozen river in a dreamlike destination? Stamped as one of the most thrilling experiences for an adventure aficionado, the Chadar trek route connects villages in the Zanskar valley deep in the mountains with Chilling and the frozen Zanskar River.

Bringing back the vigour of younger days, the once-in-a-lifetime experience will make you come across breathtaking sights. It also gives you the much needed nudge to be physically fit before you even get there.

5. Andaman Islands, Scuba Diving Exploring the Coral Reefs

If the white sandy beaches and pristine blue beaches have excited you, be prepared to be awe stricken as you witness what the waters of Andaman hold for you! The rich reefs will surprise you with their varied offerings. Colourful fish, sunken ships, prismatic sea life and some steeply undulating hills of raven volcanic lava, makes for an unusual diving experience. Think of this experience as that of getting a view of heaven underwater while experiencing one of the most remote places in India.

6. Manali-Leh Road Trip

The ‘Mecca’ of all road trips in India, the Manali-Leh Highway has always been a favourite. Be it for the groups or solo travellers, this route outshines any other backpacking trips in India. All -you need to do: get geared up for some adventure, hit the road and reach nowhere! Passing mountains and villages, passing people who are going about their business in a more simple way what will get you appreciate both nature and simplicity.

7.  Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Let your imagination take flight as you look at nature in its entire splendor. Be treated to a spectacular view of the Solang Valley as you soar in the sky. In seconds you’ll have your adrenaline rush and you’ll be spellbound by the spectacular sight you’ll behold. Go for paragliding in Manali and you will find one of the best ways to disconnect from the world.

8. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

Imagine nothingness and then imagine it some more! Being one of the remote places in India and the largest salt desert in the world, the Rann of Kutch comes to life somewhere in October as the otherwise watered locale begins to dry up. Try making it to Kala Dungar (Black Hill) and experience a panoramic view from 458 meters above sea level.

9. Sandakphu, Darjeeling

Image Credit: Nicolas Mirguet – FlickrAmong the 5 highest peaks in the world, Sandakphu makes for a dreamy location. Surreal natural beauty and spectacular views define this place. It is here one can spot around 600 myriad orchid-varieties and a remarkable diversity in nature which is not found anywhere else in the world.

10. Ganapatipule Beach, Maharashtra

A hidden treasure of Maharashtra, we suggest that you visit Ganapatipule Beach before commercialization takes over. The ride on the way too is a delightful one. When at this sandy retreat, treat your eyes to 6km of unbridled clean sand flanked by greens of the cliff on one side and blues of the Arabian Sea on the other. Some hotels have opened up for accommodation. Those looking for a bit of entertainment can enjoy camel rides as well as water sports.

11. Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim

Lakes at high altitudes always make for fantastic viewing. That’s what Tsomgo Lake is too. The lake is situated at an altitude of more than 12,000 feet above sea level. The lake gets its water from the melting ice of the surrounding glaciers. About 40km from the capital city of Gangtok and 5km from the Chinese border, you need to take an arduous trek to the lake. Despite the hardships involved, the trek to the lake is truly worth it!

12. Tawang Town, Arunachal Pradesh

Moving onto the North Eastern part of India, you will find one of the most serene and magnificent hill stations. Tawang, a sparsely populated hill town in Arunachal Pradesh also outshines other hill stations in India. Azure sky, lofty clouds, snow clad peaks and stunning views of the hills, mountains and the valleys make it a pristine hill station to visit in India.

13. Caves of Meghalaya

An exhilarating adventure in Meghalaya include exploring the many caves, this beautiful terrain has to offer! Laced with magnificent caves like Krem Mawmluh, Krem Phyllut, Krem Liat Prah, Mawsynram, Mawsmai and Siju, this North-Eastern state also has some of the hidden marvels. Natural formations, scenic hills and the mesmerizing beauty of the valleys make for an interesting backdrop to explore the interesting flora and fauna of the region. Come Meghalaya, discover one of the most remote places in India.

14. Rajasthan, Dune Bashing

Don’t miss out on a quintessential rustic desert experience when in Rajasthan. The best regions of Rajasthan for a typical desert safari are Osian, Bikaner and Jaisalmer. You get to travel to some remote places of Rajasthan during the desert safari and explore some interesting ruins of the place. There is a story associated with the ruins and forts of Rajasthan, stories that captivate you from the word go.

15. Almora, Uttarakhand

Almora; the perfect meeting ground of culture, history, heritage and natural beauty, is located in the Kuamon region of Uttarakhand. Situated in one of the eastern corners of Uttarakhand, it is the home to some of the notable temples like Nanda Devi, Asht Bhairav, Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple and many more.

16. Havelock Island, Andaman

Havelock Island is one of the largest islands of Andaman and Nicobar, spread across an area of about 113.93 square kilometers. A trip here is riveting, with its lush greenery and azure waters. There are quite a few fantastic diving and snorkelling sites in Havelock, which make it a great place for avid divers.

17. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

This beautiful place bears a very striking resemblance to Switzerland’s topography, the well-known romanticizing location. Khajjar is located at the foot of Dhauladkar, in the lap of Himalayas and is 2000 meters above sea level.

18. Roopkund Trek, Himalayas

Become one with nature and experience serenity with the Roopkund Trek, Himalayas. This trail provides an all-encompassing experience and visions of snow, ice, gushing streams, untouched forests, delightful stretches of meadows and scenic camping places. Need we say more?

19. Wagah Border

Get a feel of patriotism and nationality at a younger age. Head to Wagah Border which is on the only crossing road border of Punjab and Pakistan. Celebrate along with thousands the extravagant ceremony that occurs here every day before the sun sets.

20. Indian Ghost Town of Bhangarh, Rajasthan

The Indian Ghost Town of Bhangarh, Rajasthan is one of the scariest places in India to visit, in addition to being one of the most abandoned places in India. However, this tag has not perturbed visitors from making frequent trips to this ghost town.

Located near a famous forest in the area, this town is now slowly luring visitors from around the area, and country, to visit it. However, it should be noted that if you decide to visit the town after sunset, you will be not be allowed. In fact, there is a strict warning that it is out of bounds after the sun sets.

Festivals in India

The sub-continent of Indian is one long pageant of colorful fairs and festivals. As the days peel off the lunar calendar, the people of this country who come from widely different racial stocks and profess widely different faiths happily go about celebrating events that live in the collective memory.

And that sure makes for an impressive list of fairs and festivals, which are more than the number of days in a year! Here are some of the major Indian fairs and festivals that are extravaganzas in themselves and attract tourists from all over the world every year.

The major festivals that are celebrated in India includes Diwali, the festivals of lights and fire crackers; Holi, the festival of colors; Christmas; Eid-Ul-Fitr; Pongal, the harvest festival; Baisakhi; and the national holidays of the Independence Day and Republic Day etc, that are celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor in India.

Apart from all these - the Kumbh Mela has exerted a mesmeric influence over the mind and the imagination of the ordinary Indian since time immemorial. It is when millions of devout congregate on the banks of the holy river Ganges, for a dip in the sacred waters that is believed to bring spiritual salvation and contentment.

The famous Goa Carnival is an event that should not be missed. It is an energetic, no holds barred spring festival that is celebrated with great enthusiasm and revelry throughout the state of Goa before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent which is a 40 day period of penance and abstinence preceding Easter Sunday.

Than five day long popular and charismatic Pushkar Fair of Rajasthan has more than one lakh visitors every year! It is a period of relaxation and merry-making for the villagers, and corresponds with the largest cattle fair in the country. Animals, mainly camels, are brought from miles around. Trading is brisk as several thousand heads of cattle exchange hands.

India Fairs & Festivals

•     Holi
•     Goa Carnival
•     Diwali
•     Pushkar Fair
•     Snake Boat Races
•     Onam Festival in Kerala
•     Kumarakom Boat Race
•     Mysore Dasara
•     Hemis Tsechu
•     Indira Gandhi Boat Race
•     Nehru Boat Race
•     Saka Dawa
•     Khajuraho Dance Festival
•     Kohima Hornbill Festival
•     Kumbh Mela

Srinagar Hill Station

Introduction :

Located in the Kashmir Valley, Srinagar is a beautiful destination. Culturally rich Srinagar is one of the preferred destination for the tourists visiting North India.

Being a part of 'Heaven on the Earth', the region also enjoys blessings of mother nature. Be it lakes, valleys, flora, hills or anything else, the region is rich in everything. This is the reason that a large number of tourists from all over the world visit this wonderland frequently.

To enjoy an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life, Srinagar is the best. A major section of the tourists visiting the region, is of honeymooners. They visit this wonderland to celebrate the most special occasion of the life. Breathtaking views and fragmented aura of Srinagar create a picture perfect environment for honeymooners. These scenic locations will insist you to lose in the romantic aura. There are several attractions in the region that can take your heart away.

Attractions :

Mughal Gardens

If you wish to witness the sense of beauty and lavishness of the Royal era, Mughal garden is a treat for you. As the name suggests, it was built in the period of Mughals. This s a combination of three gardens Chashm-E-Shahi, Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Gardens. All of these are well-maintained and are famous for providing beautiful views.

Dal Lake

8 km long and 4 km wide, the beautiful Dal Lake is the pride of Srinagar. Picturesque location of the lake includes snow-covered mountains, water stretch beyond the views and the spectacular Shikaras. Highlight of the lake is, it looks amazing throughout the year. In summers, it offers you to spend memorable time on the Shikaras in the lake and in winters, it offers you an opportunity to walk past on the frozen lake. Lokut Dal, Gagribal, Nagin and Bod Dal are other lakes in the region.

Jama Masjid

Built by Sultan Sikandar, it is an architecture of 1400 AD. Located at Nowhatta, Jama Masjid is a religious place. This mosque is a combination of beauty, artwork and spiritual aura. 370 wooden pillars of the mosque make it a fascinating destination. For anyone having interest in history, culture or beauty, it is not less than a treat.

Other Attractions

Khanqah-e-Molla, Hazratbal Shrine, Shankaracharya Temple, Pari Mahal, Sri Pratap Singh Museum and Wular Lake are other attractions of the region. Tourists must ensure their visit to all these during their trip to Srinagar.

How to Reach Srinagar

By Air: Sheikh ul Alam airport is an international airport. Popularly known as Srinagar Airport, the airport serves for flights to and from all prime locations.
 
By Road: The region is well-linked with all the nearby cities. A wide network of roads makes the journey easy and smooth.

Camel Safari in Rajasthan

The vast Thar Desert, its colorful people and the long stretch of sun baked golden sand. This is something die hard travel freaks dream of and you can experience it all if you go on a camel safari in Rajasthan. Some may disagree with such a proposal saying that it would be too harsh on the body.

But again the camel safari is something that should not be missed if you are anywhere near the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. What can be a better way to know Rajasthan than sitting atop the 'ship of the desert' and exploring its rustic charm?

The camel safaris in Rajasthan not only give you a great insight into Rajasthan but also offers ample opportunity to mingle with its people and get to know everything about their lives and culture.

If you are someone who needs a dose of adventure along with everything the camel safaris in Rajasthan take care of that too. These safaris arrange for night camping trips with bon fire nights on the vast arid stretch, which would be too much for adventure lovers to resist.

The very specialty of Rajasthan is the presence of color and vibrancy everywhere you go. The fact that its people haven't allowed geographical challenges to mar their jest for life is really admirable. Don't worry about your comfort because there will be a band of local people accompanying your group on these safaris and will be there to take care of everything for you.

You just need to ensure that you carry enough water, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses to escape the desert heat. It is true that the camel safari is an unconventional way to tour a place. But Rajasthan is a place where conventions are ignored to give you the experience of a lifetime. You may not remember a picnic trip to a beach, but memories of the camel safari in Rajasthan will always be with you for the rest of your life.

A camel safari in Rajasthan can be of any duration. It can a an hour long ride that gives you a feel of the desert or it can even be a 15 day long trip.

So, you can easily pick a tour that is tailor made for your comfort. Safaris that go through the cities of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Bikaner are the most popular routes. You would also come across old ruins, deserted villages and beautiful monuments on your safari. They are great places to explore and exude a romantic charm that is hard to ignore. So if you are planning to visit Rajasthan in the near future, do embark on a camel safari in Rajasthan and see Rajasthan and its arid beauty at its best.

Toy Trains

The toy trains that are popular in India are

Darjeeling Toy Train

This train runs between New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling and counts among the most wonderful journeys of the world. Although the 83 km long journey takes about nine hours to reach its destination, the wait is worth it as the magnificent views of landscapes that you get to savour are truly enchanting.
The proposal to lay down a train line between Siliguri and Darjeeling was put up by one Franklin Prestage. The earlier train was very different from the one that runs today as it was only a four wheeled trolley covered with canvas. Then it was used to carry cargo whereas today it is known for carrying the tourists.

Route covered

From Siliguri - Kurseong up to Ghoom and Darjeeling in the hills.

Shimla Toy Train

Just after the introduction of railways in India, there was a proposal to build a rail line up to it. After the proposal for the railway line was submitted, intense discussions followed and then an adhesion line was preferred to the rack system. Around 120 passengers can be accommodated on this train. The coaches of Shimla Toy Train are very well appointed with wall to wall carpeting as well as glass windows that enhance the overall appearance of the toy train. About four and half hours are needed to reach Shimla from Kalka.
The Barog railway station is somewhat special as the train stops here for about 15 minutes to enable the passengers to have some refreshments from the restaurant here which is regarded as the best of any hill station in India.

Routes covered

Kalka - Barog - Solan- Shimla

Nilgiri Toy Train

The journey that you undertake through this train is truly amazing as it is not only the distance that you cover but also the altitude that you gain that takes your breath away. The journey commences at the height of 1069 feet and goes up to 7228 feet.
The reason for building this track was that it was very difficult to reach Udhagmandalam (now known as Ooty). Travellers needed to go to Ooty on a horse back through the forests. Although the idea began to take shape in 1854 itself, it took another 40 years to begin work on it. First, a Swiss inventor Riggenback started work on it and built the line up to Conoor by 1899. Later the track was extended up to Ooty by 1908.
This rail line is unique in itself as it negotiates the steepest slope with ease. To climb up, it uses Alternate Biting System which is also called the rack and the pinion system. The engine is kept on the back of the train to push the train forward.
The journey commences at Mettupalayam, passes through the plain areas only for about five miles and then goes up to Ooty. En route, you'll witness beautiful sceneries.

Route Covered

Mettupalayam - Kellar - Coonoor - Wellington - Lovedale - Ootacamund

Matheran Toy Train

Matheran is an incomparable hill station and is easily accessible from Mumbai as it is only 108 km away from Mumbai. The landscapes visible from Matheran are exceptional and the air, pollution free as the place is a vehicle free zone.
The Toy train at Matheran starts its journey from Neral on the Mumbai Pune line and ends at Matheran. This route was discovered by an Indian, Abdul Hussein. He obtained permission from his father and based himself at Neral and started working on the project from there. The work on the railway line finished in 1907 and was opened for traffic in the same year.
Although the journey takes only 90 minutes, yet the visual delights that it offers along the way are tremendous and beyond comparison. Come Hardar hills and the ascent begins but the real treat comes at the Jamnapatti station where the track and the road run together for some distance and get separated after a while. They come back again after the slope at Bhekra Kund ends. The attractions to watch out for en route are the Panorama point and Simpson Tank after which the train reaches its destination, Matheran.

Route covered

Neral - Hardal Hill - Jammapatti Station - Bhekra Station - Mount Barry - Panorama Point - Simpson Point - Matheran Bazaar.

Caper Travel India provides wide range of Luxury & Toy Train Tour Packages. For more details fill the query form with detailed requirement.