Ladakh

Ladakh a word which means "land of high passes", is a region in the state of Jammu and Kashmir of Northern India sandwiched between the Karakoram mountain range to the north and the Himalayas to the south. The Indian portion of Ladakh is composed of the Leh and Kargil districts. The Leh district is the largest district of India, covering more than half the area of Jammu and Kashmir, of which it is the eastern part.


The only two roads into the area from outside are the Zoji-La Pass and Kargil route from Srinagar in the Kashmir Valley, and the high altitude Manali-Leh Highway from Himachal Pradesh. The Manali-Leh road is open only from May or June to October or November, when snow is cleared from several passes. The Srinagar-Leh road is open from April or May to November or December, and is generally blocked by snow through the winter only at Zoji-La Pass.
Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport at Leh has flights from Delhi year-round on Jet Airways, GoAir and Air India. Air India also operates weekly flights to Jammu and Srinagar. Cancellations and delays for two or three days are not uncommon and can happen at any time of year, so travellers must plan for that possibility when scheduling their onward travel.

A vehicle on the Leh-Kargil highway

Roads within Ladakh, except to Zangskar, are open all year round. Khardong-La Pass to Nubra has an alternate day schedule, is closed Mondays, and can get closed by snow for several days in winter and spring. Chang-La pass to Panggong Lake rarely closes, and if it does, rarely for more than one day.
Busses serve the whole area from Leh and Kargil towns. Taxis are available in Leh and Kargil as well as in block headquarters like Trangtse, Diskit and Khaltse. Shared taxis to Nubra, Kargil, Srinagar and Zangskar leave Leh in the early morning.
If planning one direction by air and the other by the Manali-Leh highway, the option closest to safety guidelines is to fly into Ladakh and go out by road to Manali. All Manali-Leh runs involve the risk of having to sleep up to one thousand meters higher than Leh, with a high risk for severe altitude sickness. Travellers already acclimatised to the altitude of Ladakh, however, should suffer less and be able to enjoy the scenery.
The Leh Palace, which is situated behind the main market has eight stories and is similar to the Potala Palace of Lhasa and still belongs to the royal family of Ladakh. Just ahead of the palace is the famous Chamba Temple, which is a one roomed shrine that has a huge icon of Maitreya, the Buddha to come. Since this temple cannot be found easily, it is essential to enquire about it in the second row of shops.
Also in the bazaar, at the top of the street, one can see the Jama Masjid. This has been painted in green and white colour. Another place must to visit is the Sankar Gompa, which is situated within the city and is one of the oldest structures here. At one time, this monastery only welcomes maximum twenty monks and is a fairly active one. Also the monks here are extremely hospitable and always offer yak butter tea to those visiting the monastery.
Also a visit to the famous Thikse Monastery is a must. This monastery is the largest such structure in central Ladakh and is primarily known for its magnanimous statue of Maitreya (future Buddha) in its Maitreya Temple. This statue is 15 meters (49 ft) high and the largest such statue in Ladakh. The Buddha here is unusually portrayed as seated in the lotus position rather than his usual representations as standing or in a sitting posture on a high throne.




For More Information Contact:
www.btpyatra.com
https://www.facebook.com/btpyatra
Twitter : @btpyatra
http://www.waghobanagari.com/

Munnar

Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years, will bloom next in 2018. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.

Let us now explore some of the options in and around Munnar that would provide travellers ample opportunities to enjoy the captivating hill station of Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park

One of the main attractions near Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park. This park is famous for its endangered inhabitant - the Nilgiri Tahr. Spread over an area of 97 sq. km., this park is also home to several species of rare butterflies, animals and birds. A great place for trekking, the park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and also the rolling hills caressed by blankets of mists. The park becomes a hot destination when the hill slopes here get covered in a carpet of blue, resulting from the flowering of Neelakurinji. It is a plant endemic to this part of the Western Ghats which blooms once in twelve years.

Anamudi Peak

Located inside the Eravikulam National Park is the Anamudi Peak. This is the highest peak in south India standing at a height of over 2700 m. Treks to the peak are allowed with permission from the Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.

Mattupetty

Another place of interest, located about 13 km from Munnar Town, is Mattupetty. Situated at a height of 1700 m above sea level, Mattupetty is known for its storage masonry dam and the beautiful lake, which offers pleasurable boat rides, enabling one to enjoy the surrounding hills and landscape. Mattupetty's fame is also attributed to the dairy farm run by the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, where one would come across different high yielding breeds of cows.

Pallivasal

Pallivasal, located at about 3 km from Chithirapuram in Munnar is the venue of the first Hydro-electric project in Kerala. It is a place of immense scenic beauty and is often favoured by visitors as a picnic spot.

Chinnakanal & Anayirangal

Near the town of Munnar is Chinnakanal and the waterfalls here, popularly known as Power House Waterfalls, cascade down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic view of the Western Ghat ranges. When you have traveled about seven kilometers from Chinnakanal, you reach Anayirangal. Anayirangal, 22 km from Munnar, is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by tea plantations and evergreen forests.

Top Station

Top Station, which is about 32 km from Munnar is at a height of 1700 m above sea level. It is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. Travellers to Munnar make it a point to visit Top Station to enjoy the panoramic view it offers of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the spots in Munnar to enjoy the Neelakurinji flowers blooming over a vast area.

Tea Museum

Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.


For More Details Contact :
www.btpyatra.com

HIMACHAL TADKA

Day 1:- Delhi To Shimla

Arrival at Delhi railway station, our special vehicle pick up you & drive to you to Shimla (9 Hrs). Evening free for leisure & you have a choice of shopping at Mall Road Also. Come back to the Hotel & take your Dinner. Overnight stay at Hotel in Shimla .

Day 2:- Shimla Local Sightseeing

After breakfast proceed for wonderful day excursion to Kufri. In Kufri enjoy a walk through thick ceder woods to Mahasu Pick for amazing view of mighty Himalayas. Enjoy Hirse riding at your own cost. You can do wonderful photography also. Evening come back to the Resort & do some shopping at very famous Mall road of Shimla. Enjoy your dinner at Hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Shimla.

Day 3:- Shimla To Manali

After taking breakfast transfer to Manali. (350 Kms/ 10 Hrs). When ever reach at Manali check into your Hotel & get fresh. Take your dinner at Hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Manali.

Day 4:- Manali Local Sightseeing

After breakfast proceed for full day local sightseeing of Mnali like Hadimba Temple, Tibetan Monastery, Lord Buddha and Tankha paintings, Vashistha Temple for "Hot & Cold water Kund”, Club House. The evening is free leisure & you can move around to the Mall Road for shopping. When ever reach at Hotel take your dinner at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Manali.

Day 5:- Manali - Rohtang Pass - Manali

After breakfast proceed on a day excursion to the Rohtang Pass also called Snow Point of Himachal – enjoy the beauty of year round snow caped mountains. The rest of the day is free to explore this picturesque town on your own. Evening free for leisure & enjoy your dinner at Hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Manali .

Day 6:- Manali To Chandigarh

After breakfast take a transfer to Chandigarh (350 Kms / 10 Hrs). When ever reach check ino your hotel & get fresh. Take your dinner. Overnight stay at hotel in Chandigarh .

Day 7:- Chandigarh - Delhi Railway Station

After breakfast do some local sightseeing in Chandigarh, visit Rock Garden & Pinjore Garden.By noon proceed for Delhi as per your further journey schedule towards to your home town.(9hrs).

Package Include:

·         3 Nights Stay at Manali.

·         2 Nights Stay at Shimla.

·         1 Night Stay at Chandigarh.

·         Welcome Drink on Arrival.

·         Daily Breakfast  and Dinner at hotel.

·         Vehicle Cost include vehicle on disposal from Delhi to Delhi or Chandigarh to Chandigarh

·         Driver Allowance and All Taxes.

For Details Contact..
http://www.btpyatra.com/holiday/contact_us.html

Nathu La Mountain pass in Asia

Nathula Pass was a major corridor of passage between India and Tibet before it was closed in 1962. Located around 56 kms from Gangtok at an altitude of 14450 ft, the road to Nathula passes through the Tsomgo lake. It is one of the highest motorable roads in the world and is richly surrounded by alpine flora. On a clear day you can even see the road winding down the Chumbi valley. Tourists are allowed to go close to the international border from where you can see Chinese soldiers on the other side of the barbed wire.
  Nathula is open for Indian nationals on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays. The visitors have to get the permit to visit the place by applying to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department through a registered and recognised Travel Agency. Foreign nationals are not allowed to visit Nathula. Photography is strictly prohibited. One can find ATM facility here which is the worlds highest Automated Teller Machine (ATM).



The Nathula Pass is marked by Entrance gates of both countries (India and China) and military bunkers on both sides of the gates. On the Indian side, you would find some fortified military bunkers, a war memorial, an army exhibition centre, a military canteen serving hot tea and fresh snacks to tourists.

What to see in Nathula Pass:

The winding Gangtok – Nathula Highway is one of the most beautiful mountain roads of the world. Nearly, 70 kms from Gangtok, crossing the azure blue Tsomgo Lake (also known as Changu Lake) and the new Baba Harbhajan Mandir, the road is an adventure itself. The border checkpost at Nathula Pass is marked by the Border Gates of India and China, a war memorial and an Exhibition Centre of India Army. On a clear day, you can also enjoy great views of Mt. Chomolhari from Nathula Pass. Even though Nathula Pass is a border checkpost, there is no “No Mans Land”. In Nathula Pass the border consists of a barbed wire where armies of both India and China, guard their side of land. Tourists need to abandon their vehicles, few paces away from the Nathula Pass to reach the actual border. Due to the Indo China War, this legendary trade route was closed down in 1961. Recently, after a negotiation between the two countries, trading on some commodities has been resumed recently.
You have to climb around 90 steps to reach the border gates and memorial. Climbing this high altitude pass is quite tiresome. So, it is advised not to rush up the stairs, as you may go out of breath after sometime.  As you get close to the border, you can see Chinese armed forces shielding their side of the border. You can sometimes shake hands with the Chinese soldiers across the border. Contrary to popular belief, tourists are allowed to take photographs in and around this high altitude pass. Soldiers from both sides pose with the tourists. The Nathula Pass stays fully closed for tourists usually on Mondays and Tuesdays. However, on other days of the week, it closes by 1:30 pm.

Best time to visit Nathula Pass:

Nathula Pass experiences heavy snowfall during winter. The temperature of the region may drop down to a sheer -25 degree C. However, if you are fond of snow, you can visit Nathula Pass in winter with proper garments. The sight of the snow capped mountains and snow covered valleys on all sides will make you feel out of the world. May to mid November is the summer time in Nathula, when the temperature ranges around 10 degree C.




For More Information Contact:
www.btpyatra.com
https://www.facebook.com/btpyatra
Twitter : @btpyatra
http://www.waghobanagari.com/

Wayanad ( North-east of Kerala, India )

Wayanad District came into existence on 1st November, 1980 as the 12th District of Kerala consisting of Mananthavady, Sulthanbathery and Vythiri Taluks. The name Wayanad is derived from Vayal Nadu which means the land of paddy fields. It is a picturesque plateau situated at a height between 700 meters and 2100 meters above the mean sea level nested among the mountains of the Western Ghats on the Eastern portion of North Kerala and on the sides of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka States. The District was carved out from the then Kozhikode and Kannur Districts. About 885.92.sq.km of area is under forest. The culture of Wayanad is mainly tribal oriented. Though considered as backward, this District is perhaps one of the biggest foreign exchange earners of the State, with its production of cash crops like pepper,cardamom, coffee, tea, spices and other condiments. 

PLACES TO VISIT :

Chembra Peak: The hills, rocks and valleys which contribute to the very unique character of Wayanad provide a lot for adventure tourism. Trekking to the Chembra peak is a risky mountaineering endeavour. Chembra peak, the highest hill in Wayanad, is near Meppady town. Trekking to the top of this peak takes almost a day. Tourists can also stay one or two days at the top of the peak in temporary camps. District Tourism Promotion Council provides guides, sleeping bags, canvases, huts and trekking implements on hire. The scenic beauty of Wayanad, which is visible from the top of Chambra, is very exhilerating.

 Edakkal Cave: This location of breathtaking beauty is three kilometres from Ambalavayal which is 25 kilometres from Kalpetta. The Edakkal cave in the Ambukuthy mountain, is not a cave in the real sense. As stated in the India Antiquary (Vol.XXX, page - 410) and quoted in the District Gazette, Kozhikode, it is only'a cleft about 96ft. long and 22ft wide in the rock'. It is a fissure made by a corner of rock splitting off from the main body due to some natural causes. The depth of both the cleft and the fissure is 30 ft. What makes it a cave to the ordinary observer is the fact that in the other portion of the large cleft, an enormous rock, weighing several tonnes, has fallen forming a roof over a large part of it. The rock wall contains some interesting carvings, which represent human and animal figures and objects of human use and symbols. These carvings speak of a highly civilized people of pre-historic age and inspires the archaeologists and historians to rewrite the history of Wayanad and Kerala as a whole.

  Kuruva Island: The Kuruva island, 950 acres of ever green forest on the tributaries of east flowing river Kabani, is an ideal picnic spot, far away from the disturbances of city life. The island is uninhabited. Rare species of birds, orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this supernal kingdom. It is 17 Kms. east of Mananthavady and 40 kms. north west of Sulthan Bathery.

    Lakkidi: One of the highest locations in Wayanad, Lakkidi also commands a picturesque scenery. It is about 58 kms. north east of Kozhikode and five kms. south of Vythiri. Lakkidi, the gate way of Wayanad, lies atop Thamarassery, a ghat pass at an elevation of 700 m. above mean sea level.The lofty mountain peaks, the gurging stream, luxuriant vegetation and the bird's eye view of the deep valley on the south, with its winding roads, are breath taking. The 12 kms.long journey from Adivaram to Lakkidi through ghat road with nine hairpin bends amidst thick forests, is a fascinating experience.

    Muthanga Wild Life Sanctuary: Muthanga, Which is 16 kms. east of Sulthan Bathery, is located very near to the Karnadaka border. Wild forests covering an area of 345 sq.kms form the Muthanga wild life sanctuary; the biggest abode of wild animals in Malabar. Elephant, spotted deer, bison, tiger, cheeta, wild bear, etc. are found in this sanctuary. The forest Department has facilities for providing elephant rides to tourists, here.

    Pakshipathalam: Pakshipathalam in the Brahmagiri hills at Thirunelli, is a challenging tourist spot for any adventure seeking tourist. To reach Pakshipathalam seventeen kilometres have to be covered through wild forest. The deep rock caves, formed among the thick blocks of rocks at the northern top end of the Brahmagiri, are the abode of various birds and wild beasts. Special permission has to be obtained from Forest Department to go to Pakshipathalam. District Tourism Promotion Council arranges vehicle, guides, camping equipments, etc. to the tourists, on hire.

    Pazhassi Raja Tomb: Pazhassi Tourist Resort at Mananthavady is a good picnic centre in north Wayanad. There is a good aquarium here. Coin-operated toys for children and boating facilities for tourists are available here. Pazhassi Raja, the Lion of Kerala, who organised guerilla type warfare against British East India Company, was cremated here in 1805.

    Pookot Lake: It is a natural fresh water lake, brimmed with ever green mountains. The weather here is salacious; the scenic beauty, hypnotising and the nature, unspoiled. Pookot lake tourist resort in Vythiri is the most sought after tourist spot of Wayanad. There is an aquarium and a green house here. Boating facilities are also available. Spices and handicraft items are also arranged for sale at Pookot. The lake has an area of 8.5ha. and the maximum water depth is 6.5mtrs. This lake is three kms.south of Vythiri.

    Sentinel Rock Waterfalls: This waterfall is at Vellarimala village near Chooralmala in Meppadi panchayat. It is a picnic spot as well as a trekking centre. The sentinel rock, a rock of more than 200 m.in height, is ideal for rock climbing.

    Kanthanpara Waterfalls: Relatively smaller than Sentinal Rock Waterfall and rather less frequented, Kanthanpara and its surroundings are nonetheless very pleasant. An easy hike away from the main road, it is perfect for picnic

    Soochippara Waterfalls: The waterfalls at Soochippara near Meppadi is really a treasure of nature, yet to be discovered. The stretches of waterfalls ranging at places from 100 to 300 feet height is a treat to the eyes. The pool below, provides for water rafting, swimming, bathing,etc. The tree top huts at Soochippara give an unique view of the valleys of the Western Ghats and the glimmering shallow waters of the surrounding springs.
 
    Banasura sagar Dam: This is the largest earth dam in India. The topography here is such that many islands will be formed in the upstream of the dam when the dam is full. These islands with the background of the Banasura hill will provide a hypnotising sight to tourists.  

For More Information Contact:
www.btpyatra.com
https://www.facebook.com/btpyatra
Twitter : @btpyatra
http://www.waghobanagari.com/

Singapore Malaysia Tour

Arrival Singapore
Arrive at Singapore transfer to the hotel. In the evening enjoy Night Safari built specifically for night viewing. Experience the thrill of exploring a tropical jungle at night by tram. Overnight halt in Singapore. 

Day 01 Arrival Singapore

Arrive at Singapore transfer to the hotel. In the evening enjoy Night Safari built specifically for night viewing. Experience the thrill of exploring a tropical jungle at night by tram. Overnight halt in Singapore.

Day 02 Singapore

After Breakfast, We will proceed to orientation City Tour of Singapore which includes cricket club, parliament house, supreme court, city hall continue to merlion for a photo stop & enjoy a panoramic views of Marina Bay. Enroute to Thian Hock Keng Temple. After Lunch proceed to visit Sentosa, an Island of peace and tranquillity which includes Admission to Island by Cable Car. On the Island enjoy ‘Images of Singapore’, The Underwater World with Dolphin Lagoon. Lastly enjoy the spectacular Songs of the Sea. Overnight halt in Singapore.

Day 03 Singapore:

After Breakfast, proceed to Universal Studio. An action packed fun day awaits you at South East Asia’s first movie theme park. Enjoy various attractions throughout the day. Free time for Shopping @ Mustafa Shopping Mall. Overnight halt in Singapore.

Day 04 Singapore – Kuala Lumpur – Genting Highlands :

After Breakfast depart to Genting Highlands via Kuala Lumpur by coach. En-route visit the marvellous Batu Caves. In the evening, enjoy spectacular rides and shows at the ever popular Indoor Theme Park includes Mini Train Ride, Euro Express, Bumper Car Rides, 4D Motion Master, Mini Train, Reindeer Cruiser Rides,Ferris Wheel, witness some exciting shows with its myriad attractions for the young and old alike. Try your luck at casino De Genting. Overnight halt in Genting.

Day 05 Genting – Kuala Lumpur :

After Breakfast enjoy spectacular rides and shows at the ever popular Genting Outdoor Theme Park includes Space shot, Go-Karting, Roller Coaster, Dinosaur Land, Merry Go Round, Space Mountain, Flying Dragon, continue enjoying some of the fast paced action rides, witness some exciting shows. In the evening leave for Kuala Lumpur. Overnight halt in Kuala Lumpur.

Day 06 Kuala Lumpur

After Breakfast enjoy an orientation City Tour of Kuala Lumpur which includes Petronas Twin Tower (Photo - Stop), King’s Palace, National Monument, National Mosque. Later Visit the Kuala Lumpur’s famous KL Tower with Entry Ticket to Observatory deck- 4th largest telecommunication tower in the world. The rest of the day is at leisure for Shopping. Overnight halt in Kuala Lumpur.

Day 07 Kuala Lumpur (Departure)

After breakfast Departure from Kuala Lumpure airport with sweet Memories, Tour ends

For More Details Contact :
www.btpyatra.com

Hidimba Devi Temple ( Manali )

Manali has many attractions but the chief centre of interest, historically and archeologically, is undoubtedly the DHOONGRI TEMPLE dedicated to goddess Hidimba, the Bhim of Mahabharat fame. It has four-tiered Pagoda shaped roof and the doorway is carved with legendary figures and symbols. This temple located amidst wooden forest of deodar is about 2.5 kms. from the tourist office. It is a pleasant experience to stroll in the temple complex which was built in 1533 A.D. A large festival is held here in May.
The Indian epic Mahabharata narrates that Pāndavas stayed in Himachal during their exile. In Manali, a strongest person named Hidimba,a brother of Hidimdi, attacked them, and in the ensuing fight,Bhima,the strongest Pandav, killed him. Bhima and Hidimba's sister, Hidimbi, then got married and had a son, Ghatotkacha, (who later proved to be a great warrior in the war against Kauravas).When Bhima and his brothers returned from exile, Hidimbi did not accompany him,but stayed back and did tapasyā (a combination of meditation, prayer, and penance) so as to eventually attain the status of a goddess.
In their move about without a definite purpose the Pandavas and their mother, came to the territory of Hadimb Rakshash after escaping from wax house. Bhima fell in love with Haimba and wanted to marry her but the condition was that he could marry her only after killing the brother. Both lived in the area for about one year and then he joined his brother and mother. On the other side Hadimba gave birth to a son 'Ghototkachh'. , Hadimba looked after her country till the time ghototkach was a child. She withdran to the hills for meditation at Dhungri Van Vihar etc.. Thereafter a Temple was raised and She became Hadimba Devi. She was having supernatural powers and was kind to her people. Hadimba became the patron-deity of the Rajas of Kullu . According to Hira Nand Shastri this temple is an antique of about 500 years old. There is noo idol is cherised and only a foot print on a stone has been kept. It was Raja Bahadur Singh who built the temple is serve by a Mela held on the first of Savan annually named as 'Bahadur Singh Re Jatar.' This Mela is also called as Saroohni. 


For More Details Contact :

www.btpyatra.com
https://www.facebook.com/btpyatra
Twitter : @btpyatra
http://www.waghobanagari.com/