In the wilderness of Dudhwa

 EXPERIENCING DUDHWA – The Exciting Elephant Safari

As we drove towards Salukhapur, we were moved by the grandeur and majesty of the saal forest in the cool early-morning light. At Salukhapur we were introduced to Batalik, our elephant. To our surprise there were no railings on the platform on elephant’s back. Handling a camera and kit on the elephant while you are fully loaded with winter wear and also sharing space with 3 others was an experience in itself. Soon we adjusted to the rolling gait of the pachyderm and settled in.

The Exciting Elephant Safari

We were mesmerized by the sight, sounds and scent of fresh morning in the heart of the jungle. Tall saal trees whispering to the sky above gave shelter to thousands of birds. As we passed through the uneven terrains of the jungle, enthralled and captivated, the sound of dew drops kept falling on the leaves resulting in rhythmic music. Shy golden rays of sun could hardly reach the wet bushes and leaves longing for the warm touch. We were lost in the magic of wild Dudhwa when our mahout silently pointed towards a pair of Rhino roaming around lazily in the grassland completely ignoring our presence. Rhinos are quiet species and generally never charge until they are disturbed. So without disturbing our dear friends we quietly clicked some shots and proceeded further.

Rhino Roaming Around Lazily

While on our way back to the rest house a huge herd of wild elephants crossed our way. I never had witnessed such a sight. There were more than 30 elephants old and young crossing the road.

RAIDING SATHIYANA – In search of “Her”

A leopard along with her cubs has been sighted recently in the area and is supposedly still around the rest house. We have brilliant chance of sighting her, we were informed. We kept driving the rough terrain slowly along the guided way. It was good to observe the jungle movements as our vehicle passed along the tall trees, the grasslands and the bushes. While on our search for the leopard we experienced the hidden life of the jungle. Suddenly a herd of deer or some peacocks or a wild boar would come on the track and startle us. We also spotted a few crocodiles lying lazily on the marshes at the bank of river Suheli.

As the warm golden rays of sun bade goodbye to the calm playful forest changing its colors from playful to tense, the sounds of the jungle also grew intense with a dash of mystery for us. We knew we were surrounded by all kinds of wild animals including boars, hyena, lynx and leopard and there is lot of action going on. As we were lost in the magic of the dusk, we heard some shriek calls of Langoor. We were informed that a leopard is around. The startled langoors had all climbed up to the highest branches of the trees.  We silently paid attention, though we could not see a thing but we could clearly feel the fear and tension in the atmosphere. The calm and quiet had suddenly broken into confusion and pressure. Amongst all this confusion one (leopard) might have got Dinner for her family while the other (deer) might have lost her mother. That’s how nature works. We decided to respect the Jungle rules and leave the beast to feed on the feast.

MORNING SAFARI – No less than a Dream

It was a cool misty morning. We were mesmerized by the beauty of the Jungle. Sun peeping from behind the clouds, the silk cotton Trees and palash trees standing tall in the vast green grasslands created a magical effect. 

Palash Trees Standing Tall in the Vast Grasslands

The jungle was in full action quite opposite to our expectation due to a dull day. A deer running here and a peacock dancing there; flock of strokes flying over you and kingfisher fishing; it seemed we have entered some dreamland. 
We could spot a lot of birds including jungle owlets, crested serpent eagle, Bush-chat, Bulbul and Barbet.  On our way back we were amazed to find a herd of golden spotted deer grazing on the track. We observed and clicked the herd to our heart’s content. More so as it was the last safari of our trip we wanted to capture the beauty in our cameras, eyes and heart.

The Herd of Golden Spotted Deer

Exchanging our travel experiences, singing songs, having deep discussions and lots of fun and laughter – that’s how we ended our amazing trip.  

SOME USEFUL INFORMATION:

Located on the Indo-Nepal border in the district Lakhimpur-Kheri in Uttar Pradesh, Dudhwa National Park (680 sq km), together with Kishanpur (204 sq km) and Katerniaghat (440 sq km) Wildlife Sanctuaries, represent the best natural forests and grasslands left in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh.  The three Protected Areas, being the last viable home of the Royal Bengal Tiger in the state, have been jointly constituted into Dudhwa Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger. They are highly productive habitats of diverse flora and fauna and home to diverse species. The vegetation is of the North Indian Moist Deciduous type, containing some of the finest examples of Sal forests in India, as well the most extensive tracts of moist grasslands that remain in this region. The fauna includes, apart from sizable populations of Tiger and Leopard, a viable population of a nominate sub-species of the Swamp deer or Barasingha, a population of Indian One-horned Rhinoceros successfully reintroduced in 1984, and certain critically endangered species like the Bengal Florican  and the Hispid Hare, adding to the marvels of Dudhwa.

There is an enviable bird life with over 450 resident as well as migratory species. Dotted with a number of shallow lakes or taals, there are diverse, perennial sources of freshwater in the reserve. The Sharda River flows by the Kishanpur WL Sanctuary, the Geruwa River flows through the Katerniaghat WL Sanctuary and the Suheli and Mohana streams flow in the Dudhwa National Park, all of which are tributaries of the mighty Ghagra River. Some of the important taals are the Bankey, Kakraha, Amaha, Bhadi and Bhadraula. The taals, streams and rivers support a rich variety of turtle species, the Mugger crocodile, (Crocodylus palustris), the unique and endangered fish eating crocodile or Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) as well as the Gangetic dolphin (Plantanista gangetica),which are found in the Geruwa.

The best time to visit: The Park remains open to public from November to June, though the months of May and June are a little too hot for comfort. While visiting the Park during winter you must remember to take woolen clothes as it can get pretty chilly, particularly between December and February.

Need to know:

• Park timings are from 7AM to 10 AM and 3PM to 6 PM. The best point to start your park trip is at the Dudhwa Forest Office, where you can get information from the foresters about everything ranging from accommodation to safaris.
• The entire park is administratively divided into nine ranges of which only Sathiana, Bankati,  Sonaripur, Salukhapur, Belrayan and Kila have accommodation facilities.
• Elephants can be hired from the office near the park gate or from the Salukhapur Chowki for Rs. 100/head.
• A library at the Dudhwa office provides information about the park. A nature shop located near-by sells books and other souvenirs.

All visitors to the park require an entry permit, which can be obtained from the director of the park. For more information and entry permit you can contact: Director, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Distt Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh. Tel: 05872-252106.

Feel like going? Chaloletsgo! can help you plan.

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Preparing Yourself for Winter Trekking

1.       The rule of thumb is to be in five layers for a temperature that goes down to -5°C or lower. With every subsequent increase in temperature by 10 degrees (say from -5°C to 5°C), you can strip off one layer. But keep in mind that during the day when the sun is out and you are trekking, it actually gets very warm with the layers of clothes you have on so don’t over-layer yourself and be prepared to peel off layers depending on the heat.

An example of five layer clothing for -5°C would be:

·         1 thermal inner

·         2 T-shirts

·         1 full sweater

·         1 jacket

But you can make your own variations of this. For example, I wear one sweater with a fleece jacket and then add a windcheater jacket over it. It keeps me warm for any situation.

2.       The choice of SHOES is very important. You need a shoe that protects you from the elements and gives you grip on snow. It’s always good to have water proof shoes if you are trekking on snow.

3.       For your legs, one thermal inner with a track pant is usually enough. Keep an extra track pant handy for an additional layer or in case it gets wet in snow.

4.       Your head, fingers, toes, ears and nose need extra protection. To make sure they stay warm and dry do carry the following:

·         Woolen cap

·         Water proof gloves

·         Woolen socks

·         Scarf - It is something that can protect your neck and nose or work as an extra glove. This multi-utility gear is a must for a winter trek.

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My most memorable moments of year 2014

1. Sitting on the edge of a cliff at TUNGNATH

"I want to stand as close to the edge as I can without going over because out on the edge I can see the things I can't see otherwise."
Rainy season, fog all around, slippery rocks but some adventurous souls decided to take the risk. Not just of trekking up to Tungnath but to try our limits by standing on the edge and experience the thrill.The RISK involved made the moment adventurous and memorable.

At the edge

2. The view of frozen SURAJTAL

On our way back from Leh we crossed Bara-lacha-la pass. Driving at the elevation of almost 4,890mt...we reached Surajtal - the third highest lake in India, and the 21st-highest in the world. The lake was partially frozen. The white looked stunning against the deep blue sky. Couldn't stop appreciating the vivid and beautiful nature. The BRIGHTNESS of the moment is what made it memorable.

The MOMENT

3. The drive through the snow storm at KHARDUNGLA

This is all we could 

manage to click

Going to Khardungla did not feel like a big accomplishment until we survived the snow storm while coming back. All of sudden weather changed from sunny on the way to Kardungla to light snow at Khardungla and the killer snow storm on our way back.
Snow hitting direct on the face, zero visibility - due to the snowfall and snow filled glasses, numb body and no chance to stop as the road will get worse with snow. Driving a bike through this storm was an achievement.
The CHALLENGE of the moment made it so accomplishing.

4. Witnessing a tiger pouncing on its prey at KANHA

Wildlife has always astound me. For one creature to survive the other has to die. Have seen many of such moments on Television but witnessing it in a jungle in real was an amazing. A mixed feeling it was... The gravity of the king made me forget everything.

Tiger getting ready to pounce

5. Posting from world's highest post office at HIKKIM

Sitting there in a small mud room of a remote village in high Himalayas and writing a post card was the feeling that can't be expressed in words.

A proud moment

6. The sudden rainbow at THIKSAY MONASTERY

I was mesmerized by the beauty of Thiksay monastery when all of sudden a rainbow appered to add to the beauty. The moment will be etched in my memory forever.

Rainbow in the barren lands of LADAKH was no less than a miracle

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It's December already!

We are already sitting on December. How fast this year passed. I guess this happens when life is full of happenings. At this time of the year reflection and contemplation is unavoidable -looking back on the journey of year 2014 and making plans for 2015.

Can't believe I was on road for one-third of this year. What a nomad I've become!

Explored some new places -
Lotwara- a remote village in rajasthan,
Orchha - a quaint little town in MP, 
Khajuraho - carvings from the past that I wanted to see since long,
Langza, Comic and Hikkim - remote villages in high Himalayas in Spiti region,
Kasol - a laid back place where I would love to go to relax anytime,
Chopta - a marvel of nature that amazed me with its strong positive energy,
Kantaboni - a remote tribal village in Odisha and
Kanha - jungle at its best and i was fortunate enough to meet the king of this amazing jungle 4 times.
 
And revisited my favorite places - Pushkar, Ladakh, Bharatpur and Kinnaur.

I love traveling with familiar strangers. So all the above travels were with some amazing people. Met many new people on my journeys, made friends with lots of them while learnt lessons from others.
Putting down names of some 'strangers-when-met' added to my list of friends and with whom traveling was fun. +ayandrali dutta , +Nabamita Ray , +Namrata Gupta , Shilpa Ravishankar , +Rajneesh Mathur , +santosh arya , Paritosh , +sanket modi , +Saraswati Mohan , Shilpi Garg , +Kp Menon and Prasanna Menon.
While new is important old is gold. This year was really good as I found most of my school friends and am now in constant touch with them.

As much as I like being on the move and meeting new people, I love coming back home to my people and MY LITTLE SPACE. This year was exciting in this front as my home at Indirapuram got all new look. I got it repainted with all bright colors, so my life back home is as colorful as the world is!


I also got opportunity to do some remarkable assignments that added to my skill set and experience. Thanks Vaibhav Dayal and Aditya Arya for trusting me for work that I did for you.
And apologies to people I could not work with due to my tight work schedule.


And something that I love to mention - I got featured in Smart Indian Women and DNA this year. Its my dream to have my success story published in some leading newspaper or magazine one day. Who knows that's what new year will bring.

Will share my plans for 2015 soon. All of you known or unknown ones are most welcome to join me on my journeys. Let us hope this new year brings with it lots of happiness and positivity in our lives.

HAPPY 2015!

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Weekly Inspirational Travel Quote

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CELEBRATING THE SILENCE - Prim Resorts, Ramgarh

Waking up was never so pleasing… the birdsongs, the tinkle of wind chimes, and the warm sun-rays filtering through the huge glass windows adorned with beautiful art curtains; open the curtains and your eyes will land upon the snow covered misty mountain range lit by golden sun rays. The bell rings in a school far away in the valley, the tree pie and cuckoo sing in synchrony, the bumble bee is busy buzzing on beautiful pink flowers... Welcome to Prim Resorts, Ramgarh Valley.  

View from the rooms of the resort

Nestled in the heart of Kumaon Himalayas (village Nathuakhan, Ramgarh) at 6200ft this heritage property oozes with tranquil old world charm and warmth. The beautiful estate has lush fruit orchards, a renovated bunglow and dense oak and pine forest cover.  There are eight aesthetically done cottages, and each room has its own distinct appeal.  The paintings, the little artifacts and the antique wooden pieces add pulse and character to the place. Wines climbing up the old trees, walls and the ceilings give this place a rustic charisma.

The rooms are very well maintained and have a beautiful old world charm. In spite of the seemingly rustic aura, all basic amenities like attached modern bathrooms are taken care of. A wood fire bukhari in every room keeps you warm and cozy the traditional way

Aesthetically done rooms

 The cook conjures up a variety of meals that one would least expect in a place like this. If you are visiting in summers you have the novelty to pick and relish fresh fruits like plum, peaches and apricot off the trees. What makes this place truly unique is the personized service and care from the staff. 

Catch up on your writing

This is a great place for a quiet repose. Lie in a hammock and read a book with breathtaking panoramic views of Himalayas for company, sip tea under sun umbrella overlooking the mountains, write that letter you have always wanted to at a little desk on the garden porch or stroll around the beautiful garden full of fruit trees and colorful flowers.

At any point in all directions is a stunning view of lush green hills that you will not be able to take your eyes off from. And it all comes wrapped in serene silence.

And when all that languor gets too much, ramble through the woods or village hamlets. Thirty minutes and you are in the tranquil courtyard of an isolated medieval temple; an hour and you can be beside a cool, gurgling stream - Sufi River. While you are walking towards this stream, soak in the Kumaoni life. Simple villagers will invite you for a cup of tea. Nathuakhan village is worth wandering through.

If you have some more time in hand visit Mukteshwar. The drive through Sitla Estate takes around 30 min through dense woods of deodar, silver oak, green oak and occasional rhododendrons. Take a forest walk by the side of the temple and check out the 180 degrees snow-covered Mountain View from the PWD bungalow which is famous for being associated with Jim Corbett when he had come to Mukteshwar to kill a maneater. On the way do visit Kilmora Shop for handicrafts and other local produce. 

The place is a paradise for nature lovers

Spend an afternoon basking in the sun and exploring the surroundings. This place is a paradise for nature-lovers and bird-watchers. The bunglow is located in midst of beautiful trees of deodar, Rhododendrons and oak and are frequented by birds like yellow vented bulbul, Asian koel, white crested laughing thrush, spotted dove and many others.

Fireplace makes a perfect setting for an evening drink

Join other people in the lounge for some adda in the evening. With the fireplace going, it makes for a cozy place for an evening drink or a cuddle up with your favorite thriller.

At sunset, bonfire will beckon from the sit-out outside the lounge. Witness the golden evening transforming into dark night. The silent valley, the twinkling stars, the rusty scent of the woods and some light music will touch your soul while fire warms your body.

This place is a perfect blend of chilly, silent air and warm hospitality!

PRIM RESORTS is a Collection of Boutique Resorts in most beautiful offbeat locations. For details and bookings visit their website http://www.primresorts.com/.

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Weekly Inspirational Travel Quote

Picture by Shailza Sood Dasgupta

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Exploring the hidden gems of Odisha

The train journey...
Looking out of the window of Dhauli express on the way from Hawrah to Balasore, I was feeling like a child again. Green fields seemed to be smiling at me, small ponds where kids were taking bath and having fun seemed to be inviting me to join them. Mud houses reminded me of my childhood spent in the villages of Himachal.

 Singara, jhaal moori, chai, bread cutlet, biryani, cold drink and chips... there ware options to munch on every other minute. Eye contact and smiles shared with the cute kid of the family sitting next to us made my day. There was another huge family traveling together. They had lots of alu dum and moori packed and members kept moving to and fro in the compartment... serving, eating, chatting and what not.

Green fields as viewed from the train

Happy village kids

A memorable walk through the Villages of Odisha...

My destination for now was village Kantabonia, Shyamsundarpur. I liked the rawness of the place.

Village people far from the modernity seemed happy living close to nature. Ladies sitting out on the verandas of their houses, children rejoicing together in the pool, men folk returning home on their by-cycles.

Agriculture is the main occupation

Walking on the muddy route crossing water stream twice and passing through a village, we reached KUMKUT. I thoroughly enjoyed having tea while watching the sunset and talking to the villagers. 

Kumkut 

t was already dark when we started back. This time on a different route. Devraj told me to take my shoes off. We walked on the muddy road with puddles all along, through the water stream for around half a km and through narrow lanes cutting through village. While I was struggling to find the way and keep my feet on right place to avoid the puddles, Devraj was narrating stories of Elephant herds frequenting this place. Moon and stars gave me company and lighted my way. Fireflies were my other companions on this adventurous walk. Silence of the night was broken only by the sound of crickets. 

As we reached back the resort the santhal ladies and men were getting ready for tribal dance performance. It was fun to match the steps with those shy ladies and funny men folk.

Tribal Dance

Drive through the Jungle

Jungle walk to Devkund...

Next day was dedicated to Devkund. Started just after breakfast. A drive of around 3 hrs took us to Simlipal reserve forest. Though the reserve park was closed due to rains we drove a stretch in the jungle and walked a few kms to reach Devkund. It being monsoon season, the area was lush green and the waterfall gushing. Hundreds of small steps took us to the temple. The serene forest walk refreshed our senses.

Serene Jungle Walk

Drive back through the country side was even more beautiful.  The setting sun beyond the green fields; saree clad ladies and men folk in their lungis, kids in vibrant clothes all were going to the mela... It was a festive season and everyone seemed to be in their cheerful best.

Delicious dinner served with love by the village people was a perfect end to the day.

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Reasons why I visit Pushkar time and again

Here are a few of the things that bring people to Pushkar:
Spirituality - Holy Lake, the only Brahma Temple and many other temples;
The local life - cheerful people dressed in vibrant dresses;
Nature's marvels - mesmerizing sunrise and gorgeous sunset;
Food and shopping - cafes overlooking the lake serving delicious food and the variety of silver jewelry and traditional clothes to shop; 
Music and dance - Bhopa musicians playing Ravanhatha and kalbelia ladies performing dance... 

For me... Its the mystic yet relaxed air of this place that I come here time and again. Pushkar is my favorite getaway during winters if I am not heading to the Himalayas.

Fragrance of Dhoop and incense sticks mixed with fragrance of roses welcomes you here. Walk through the maze of narrow lanes to reach the hotel. Warm simple people will greet you with full heart. After relaxing you can decide on weather you want to spend time by the side of the lake listening to someone playing guitar or you want to hike up to Savitri temple and watch the golden sun dipping down the horizon while some Rajasthani bhopa plays ravanhatha (a traditional musical instrument).

Hema enjoying sunrise at Gayatri Devi temple

Head back to the market and relax on some roof top cafes with wide range of menu. Have local cuisine or try lafa and falafal or some of the best mud oven baked pizzas.

Wake up to the sound of ringing bells. Opening your eyes to this spiritual atmosphere is one thing I love about Pushkar. There is a range of breakfast options to chose from... kachori, kadi pakora, bedmi puri subji or if you want it light go for some awesome bakery product. Whatever you chose end it with rich sugary malpua.

Malpua in making

Life has a very slow pace here. Spend hours just sitting by the side of lake listening to the stories of sadhus or at a juice corner interacting with some backpackers. Walk around the lanes to find best silver jewelry and traditional clothes. You can pick the fabric and a design, give it to the tailor in the same shop and go get some lunch. Have a nap and your dress is ready. Stroll around the colorful bazar to flaunt your new dress, have your favorite cake with a cup of coffee and go to the desert to enjoy a camel ride with some soulful Rajasthan music.

Pushkar is a shopper's paradise

If you have time hire a bike and explore the outskirts of Pushkar. Cheerful locals, ancient temples and the greeny around will surprise you.

Hire a bike to explore surroundings

To reach this mystic land of Pushkar either take an overnight sleeper bus or a Shatabdi till Ajmer and then a bus or a taxi that will take not more than a hr to reach Pushkar. I find it the most easily approachable weekend getaway from Delhi.

Want to explore Pushkar with experts... Join PULSATING PUSHKAR this October

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A WILD ESCAPE - Corbett

With stress levels increasing in today’s competitive life, weekend getaway in the lap of nature is the best way to rejuvenate you. Corbett is one of the most sought after places for a quick escape. Just 6hrs drive from Delhi takes you to this beautiful place close to nature. While Corbett has plenty of accommodation options available finding a neat boutique hotel that is located in the heart of the jungle and moderately priced is not an easy task. Below is a brief of my stay. I hope my experience will help you make your search and decision-making easier!

After a lovely drive of around six hrs from Delhi we reached Ramnagar. An exciting drive started just a few minutes after we crossed the Kosi barrage that took us through the dense forest passing the grasslands and crossing the river beds. While we were driving through this magical land, a friend Pankaj who has already been here many times told us the tales of the area. He has witnessed a lot of wildlife here on this drive. Be it spotting beautiful little Himalayan birds or bumping into a herd of wild elephants or spotted deer one can expect anything. This drive is no less than a wild safari.

A beautiful drive through the Jungle that takes you to the resort

We passed through the uneven terrains enthralled and captivated by the beauty of the jungle. Shy golden rays of sun could hardly reach the wet bushes and leaves longing for its warm touch. We were mesmerized by the sight, sounds and scent of the jungle when we realized we have reached our destination - The PRIM Resort, located at Kyari - the buffer zone of Corbett National Park. Just outside the resort gate is a river bed that fills with water during monsoons. 
A warm welcome by the well trained soft spoken staff immediately made me feel at home. Just a walk around the nicely maintained beautiful resort was enough to assure me of a comfortable stay in coming days - hospitable staff, clean spacious tastefully decorated rooms with nice big bathrooms and hot water available 24hrs, enough green space and well trimmed gardens to walk around and a well maintained clean pool to relax.

A comfortable stay in midst of the forest

After relaxing for an hour, I pushed off to explore the village Kyari. Mud houses and the green fields, ladies working in the fields and carrying fodder, kids playing with sheep and old lady with her grandson sitting in the courtyard – I felt like I have been transported back to my childhood days. An elderly lady in one of the houses courteously invited me for a cup of tea. We sat in front verandah of her house looking at the sky. The sun was setting and the reflections of the setting sun on clouds created magical spell of colors.

Exploring life at village KYARI 

My group was relaxing by the pool side with some drinks and nicely prepared snacks when I reached back. I could not resist and joined them. The hotel staff deserves a mention here. They were extremely accommodating to our requests and went an extra step to ensure they are met. Delicious dinner was served absolutely on time.

A relaxing evening by the side of the pool 

Next day was dedicated to the adventure activities that the resort had organized for us. We did jungle safari in the first half of the day that was full of excitement while rappelling, rock climbing and river crossing at River Khichdi and body surfing satisfied our adventurous souls later in the day. I was quite skeptical in the beginning to try all this but as I met the expert and spoke to him, his assuring and comforting talks made me do it all. And now I thank him for instilling the courage in me else I would have missed the entire thrill.

River-crossing, Rappelling, Surfing and Jungle Safari to satisfy your adventurous soul

The guided lantern walk in the jungle after dusk was what the resort people offered us to do in the late evening. Though we were dead tired, could not resist it. Walking through the jungle at night was like a musical spell. The sound of cricket and occasional calls of deer mixed with the sound of rain drops on the saal trees resulted in a mystic effect beyond the darkness. Though we could not stay out for long due to rain, I decided to visit the place again just to do more of it. 

I wanted to spend the next day at leisure. It started with a hot cup of masala tea while watching mesmerizing sunrise. Post breakfast I picked up my book and walked up to the machaan (watch tower). PRIM is the only place around that has a machaan where you can sit and enjoy reading or keep an eye on the surroundings for some wildlife or sit at night with friends and chat.  Around the resort are many river beds. Spending some quiet my time on a huge boulder, feet dipped in water sitting in middle of the jungle refreshed me.

River beds with huge boulders all around offers an ideal setting to spend some quiet time with yourself

It being a pleasant weather I took a walk in and around the resort and tried to capture as much as I could in my eyes and camera. 

My tired city soul was now fully refreshed to start my journey back to the city

Important Information:

1. The resort is just 6hrs drive from Delhi through Gajrola, Moradabad, Kashipur and Ramnagar (around 240 km.) and is located at Kyari, the buffer zone of Corbett.
2. Resort Amenities: Swimming Pool; TT table; Library; 50 ft. high Machaan to enjoy the forest; Beautiful dining area overlooking the landscape and 60 seated conference hall.
3. Room prices for this resort starts at Rs. 4000 with meals for two. They give the best rates at www.primresorts.com'. 
4. Room Amenities: Tastefully done rooms with big sit out areas and gardens; TV; Intercom; AC/Heaters
5. Activities like River crossing, rappelling and body surfing can be organised on request
6. Jeep Safari to Corbett National Park can also be arranged. Pick and drop from the resort at no extra cost.

PRIM RESORTS is a Collection of Boutique Resorts in most beautiful offbeat locations. For details and bookings visit their website http://www.primresorts.com/.

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In the shadow of Dhauladhars

Gossip session in the morning with bed tea in hand was followed by digging into steaming hot aalu puri as sweet rays of winter sun warmed our bodies.

Of all the hill stations in the North, Kangra valley rarely vies for attention with gimmicky spells. But perhaps that’s where its charm lies. Snuggling up to the snow capped Dhauladhar range, this valley in Himachal is a weekend getaway from Delhi with its scenic viewpoints, hidden monasteries and warm people. It has something to offer to everyone, amazing landscapes and lush green forests for photographers and nature lovers, serene monasteries hidden in the pines for those looking for some quietude and activities like paragliding and trekking for the adventurous lot.

Embracing the Cool Winds at Billing 

It was a clear day, perfect for paragliding. We were now heading to Billing, one of the world’s best Paragliding sites. Zigzag ways, deep valley on one side and snow covered high hills on the other and chilled air kissing our faces. The paragliding team was headed by Sonu. Sitting at the height of 2290m above sea level, looking at the horizon and sipping hot tea in chilling weather was something we will cherish throughout our lives. Exalted hearts, nervous minds and shivering bodies. Right direction and velocity of wind was required to jump off the cliff. Our pilots were experts in judging the right moment and encouraging us to jump. All the nervousness disappeared as soon as we were in the air. Then it was all excitement of flying up above the deep valleys and high mountains. The feeling while you are up there is beyond words.

Paragliding at Billing

Landing was trickier than the take off. Along with the right direction and velocity of air, folding legs in a specific way was also required. Follow the instruction exactly as given by your instructor or else break your legs, we were told. We opted to follow the instructions. We were all dead tired after this soul stirring experience. Not just exciting but it was also a good learning experience - trust and confidence in your instructor, perfect coordination, taking timely decisions and much more.

Celebrating Life with Lively Monks at Shera Bling monastery, Bhattu

Tucked away from the town, just a few kilometers west of Bir in Upper Bhattu, is this sprawling Tibetan Buddhist monastery and retreat complex. Situated in the midst of lush green pine forested foothills of the Kangra Valley, Palpung Shera Bling monastery is the place to relax and celebrate life, leaving behind all the worries and hassles.  

Serene walk around Shera Bling monastery Bhattu

A quiet walk through the pine forest with colorful Buddhist prayer flags on the sides of the road guided us to the monastery.  While we were taking a look at the magnificent monastery building, the magical drum beats compelled our attention. We followed the beats and found that they were coming from the 3^rd floor. The monks, young and old, were engrossed in the rehearsals. The monastery will host bi-annual Lama-dances in its premises we were told, of which the practice sessions were going on. Celebration of life in the midst of serene nature, glowing jovial faces of kids, youth and old alike, we felt as if we have reached some different world altogether where people knew no sorrow.  After having Thukpa and tea, being served by most friendly people in the café outside the monastery we proceeded further.

Rediscovering History at Ancient Shiva Temple, Baijnath

On our way back to the hotel we visited the ancient Shiva temple in Baijnath.  13th century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva has been continuously under worship ever since its construction in 1204 A.D.

Old Shiva Temple, Baijnath

The temple is a beautiful work of the early medieval north Indian Temple architecture known as Nagara style of temples. Baijnath being my birth place, this temple holds special importance for me. We, as kids, used to come here every evening with our parents. While they used to offer prayers, we would spend time playing in the well maintained garden just outside the temple. I still have very fond memories of grand 5 day celebrations on maha shivratri in the temple. All the members, including kids of the family would get up early morning, take bath and rush to the temple and this routine would go on for the whole week.  Decorated with marigold flowers all over, temple looked so different in those 5 days. Thronged by numerous devotees from all over the state, we had to wait for hours just to get a glimpse of the inside of the temple that’s so easy to approach on any normal day.  Today while visiting it with people from other cities and narrating to them the whole childhood experience I relived those childhood memories.

That was the moment when we realized that it’s time to say goodbye to this serene land. With heavy hearts we left the beautiful valley but we were happy to have gathered so many memorable moments and have made friends for life.

The Guide

Kangra Valley is situated in Himachal Pradesh, India. The valley has an average elevation of 2000 ft. The highest peak on the Dhauladhar range which marks the boundary of the valley reaches 15,956 ft.

FACT SHEET

Getting there

·     By Rail :  The nearest broad gauge railway station is at Pathankot placed at a distance of about 90 km from Kangra. There is frequent bus service and taxis are also available from Pathankot. One can also take narrow guage rail from here.

·     Air: The nearest airport to reach Kangra is Gaggal airport, placed at distance of 13 kms from Kangra city. Taxi cabs are available from there. The taxi fare varies depends on the season. Typically taxi charges are Rs.300.

·     By Road: Kangra is approximately 450kms from Delhi. It is around 10hrs drive and roads are in good condition.

Getting Around

You’ll need a car to travel around. Hire a taxi from Pathankot, if you have come by rail or from Kangra, if you have come by air. 

The areas of interests in and around Kangra valley are Palampur, Baijnath, Bir, Billing, Bhattu, Kangra fort and Mcleodganj.

Recommended stay: http://www.homestaysofindia.com/properties/palampur-homestay/

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