Experiencing the raw nature at Stok Kangri

I first experienced the thrill in climbing a mountain when I was 13. It was really a momentary incident in my life as I was not the person who was fond of traditional or nature sports. That day I had realized that this adventure would enable me to experience physical and psychological challenges through which I would be able to know much more about my personality and also learn from those experiences and become stronger.

Also, mountain climbing gave me the chance to see nature in its purest form. But I was not so pleased by the fact that I was only climbing in the Peak District which was no more new to me. But eventually when I traveled with my friends to Lake District and Snowdonia and Scotland, then I got introduced to the sheer beauty of these places which further motivated me to continue these types of adventures or traveling.

Over the years I went various countries in search of different climbing experiences. I have been to almost every continent from America, Europe, Australia and Asia. Wherever I went I was mesmerized by the sheer love and affection by the people of every culture I experienced.

From all of the places I have gone to, there is specifically one place which stands out for me as the perfect divine destination for climbers and that is India. This is the country which every adventurer desires to visit as it offers unique challenges totally different from the challenges we face in other places.

India is also a very important place for ambitious mountaineers who wish to climb the highest mountains. The north Indian region possess the mighty Himalayas weaving their way through the states of Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura and Sikkim in the northeast to all the way to the north western states of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.

One of the most fascinating regions in this entire Himalayan Belt is the Ladakh Region also dubbed as 'Himalayan Desert'. Here, a mountaineer would find his desired height of mountains and the treacherous terrain he/she craves for. A peak called Stok Kangri is a gem of a mountaineering destination. All the mountaineer requires is reliable mountaineering gear and that's it.

Way to Stok Kangri

People who are coming from abroad would have to land at Delhi Airport. You can Hire a taxi or take a Volvo bus which would take you direct to Ladakh. It is a very Long journey which takes nearly 20 hours by Bus and an hour less from a hired car. People who want to see the geographical scenery of India are recommended to take the journey through road to reach Ladakh. But for the ones who are on a short timescale, taking the domestic flight from Delhi to Ladakh would be the best option.

When I went to India I was a bit tight on my schedule so I took a flight to Leh main city of Ladakh.

After you enter the hilly region, you can see the plane taking you through the curving valleys and mountains.

Checking in at Leh

 

After I landed in Leh’s I saw what I had thought about the place. The airport was small, basic and friendly. I took a taxi to a hotel where I check in and took rest after traveling at the height of 3500 meters.

Next morning I was recharged and ready to go exploring the rich natural surroundings of Ladakh. I was strolling on the streets when I saw nearly every hill had Buddhist Stupas on them. I could also clearly see the Stok Kangri Peak.

The scenery is mystic and gives you the idea of how remote the place is and why do we live in cities and depend on technologies when people here are nowhere near to leading a lifestyle with technology being part of it.

I talked to some locals on during my stroll and I was flattered by their generosity and friendliness. This is the friendliest city I have ever visited. There is a huge Tibetan population in Ladakh who came here because of the Chinese treating them inappropriately in Tibet.

I always took souvenirs for my family back in the U.K. from everywhere I went. So, I went to the market to look out for some authentic and native products for souvenir and I was stunned to see the artistic talents that the people possessed. I saw people different types of finely embroidered Silk clothes, jewelry and Buddhist Sculptures at very affordable prices.

Besides, I found out that there were shops which offered mountaineering equipments and clothing. Also, some trekking agencies were there which provided logistical assistance and tour guides so that you can get much more about the local lifestyle of the people and the traditions and customs they follow.

Climbing to the Peak’s Base Camp

Taking the right trek route is the most important thing in terms of safety and time management. Choosing a path that is shorter but more treacherous than a long route, would be beneficial for professionals but is a no go for people who are not experienced mountain climbers.

I took the route which went through the Markha Valley. Beginning from a small village called Chilling, just 15 minutes from Leh, is a thrilling experience as the village is the gateway to the Markha Valley and it requires one to pass the famous Indus River through a cable bridge.

On the other side of the river, there is pony service available which charge genuine fare from you. If you are using trekking agency services, then they would make all the arrangements for you.

After crossing the river, route leads you from the mesmerizing Markha Valley to the village named Skiu. Till this village it would take you around four hours to come from Leh. The Village has nice camping site and various royal bungalows and cafes. One take rest here and move ahead the next day.

The next village is Shingo which has unusual scenic beauty. After crossing Shingo, the challenge begins as the track moves upwards towards the Ganda La Pass. One may experience Fatigue as there is oxygen shortage at the height of 4900 metres.

From the Pass, you get on to a steady track which leads you descending to Rumbak located at the height of 3800 meters. It would almost take you Ten hours to reach there from Shingo. This is the point from where you detour towards the Stok Mountain range.

The detour would lead you to the south east direction where the Stok Mountains stand. You first reach at Stok La situated at a height of 4850 meters. The track is tiring and treacherous with the oxygen level at very low percentage.

After crossing the Stock La, you would reach the village of Stok. You can either camp at the village and see the ceramic nature all around or rather continue with climb and reach the peak of Stok Kangri.

Reaching the Base Camp

The base camp at Stok Kangri is fairly Satisfying in terms of facilities they provide. The region is arid and offers only the basic necessities.

To enjoy more scenic beauty you can follow the track leading to the Advanced Base Camp from where you can see the glacier and upper sections of the mountains. Though camping at this place is restricted.

After a night’s stay or more according to your schedule, you can plan for the ascent. Deciding the time of departure has to be in tune with the time you need to catch your flight back to U.K.

The Return

Following the path going out of the site of Advanced Base Camp I witnessed a descending path which led to the glacier. I initially was getting uncomfortable as I was not able to climb in a rhythm until I started climbing from the naturally made slope patterns. Sometimes there may be snow on the mountains and it is very important to watch your step and every move you make as it would be dangerous.

I climbed nearly hundred meters towards the usual line of attack which lead me back to the southern ridge from where I could straight away head towards the summit. The rocks were loose and particular you need to be careful of where you are placing your foot, but if you are confident and sure footed you’ll find this section passing quickly. After the treacherous climbing on the edge of the glacier I finally reached Stok Summit.

After this tiresome adventure I wanted some rest after which I had to plan my returning back to Leh.

Back to Leh

After taking adequate rest at the base camp I took the quickest route which took 5 hours. Strolling down this route I witnessed the beautiful flora and fauna of the area with animal species like Bharal, Blue Sheep and Marmots. You would get all the photogenic moments at this stretch so keep your cameras ready. As you reach the Stok village you can take the pony straight back to Leh.

Things to figure out before packing your bags –

What is the most Favorable season to go to Ladakh?

In Ladakh, the trekking season starts around the middle of June till the beginning of July and until the end of August. The best time to be there would be the period around July to September. The weather at this time is favorably good and things start to quieten both in the mountains and in Leh. This also the time when the Ladakh’s annual festival is organized. 

 

How much it would cost you to go to Ladakh from U.K.?

Tourists from UK should get down at Delhi. It would cost you around £500-600 for a direct flight. After reaching Delhi the best way to reach Leh is by flight. The flight would take you their in 1hr 30 minutes. The expedition organizing agencies charge around 150-170 Pounds which is quiet affordable. It is convenient and conventional for a outsider to hire a expedition or trekking agency so that you does not get to face any problems regarding the local language and the knowledge about the terrain and the routes to reach your desired destination.

Where Do I Stay?

There are so many hotels in Delhi which offer excellent facilities at very low prices. After you leave to Leh you can check in to a guesthouse. The guesthouses there are really simple but that is the specialty of them as there are beautiful scenic view from each room which makes you forget everything and keeps you fresh all the time.

Should I hire a Trekking Company?

There are agencies there in Leh with very professional and experienced people who provide you the best equipments and guides and make arrangements for transportation and accommodation during the trek.

Which trekking company is best to use?

Adventure India (Only Adventure - Nothing Else) is an tour & travel operators Company providing the Trekking in India service for tourists. Full details can be found on http://www.adventureindiagroup.com/ or +91-97361 02222 call to book your Trekking tour. 

 

All in all going to Stok Kangri would be a life time experience and would leave you mesmerized and amazed by the sheer mightiness of The Himalayas. You may even plan to stay their forever.

Trekking In Garhwal Is Famous For Treks & Places

The term Trekking derived from Trek. The word Trek is noun and Trek ken is verb and it means a long and arduous journey “typically on foot”. The meaning of Trekking comes from it only as it is adventurous and enjoyable. Trekking in Garhwal is a most enjoyable and meaningful. As we all know Garhwal is one of the beautiful regions of Northern India. Nature has blessed this land with so much beauty and with spiritual beauty that’s why it is also known as Land of God.

Garhwal Trekking can be the adventurous and attractive trekking destination to explore the Himalayan foothills. It gives great experience which is enjoyable, fun able. Trekking in Garhwal brings marvelous opportunity for adventures lovers to find the ever inspiring peaks, which are beautiful valleys. As it holds the most religious journey of Chardham that’s why it is also known as religious trekking. It gives much enjoyable and new experience plus gives a chance to meet simple living. It arranges many adventurous touring including trekking tours, rafting tours and cultural tours , mountain biking tour, in the fascinating and glorifying Himalayan region. Routes in Garhwal are arranged under very easy way, which are sensible and strenuous section. The treks of Garhwal are capable for entertaining. People from around the world visit Garhwal to do Trekking and explore hidden beauty of Garhwal.

Places of Trekking in Garhwal

1.   Chardham yatra Visit

2.   Kumaon Trekking Trip

3.   Panch Kedar Trek

4.   Dodi Tal

5.   Kalindikhal Trek

6.   Khatling Sahasratal Masartal Trek

7.   Har- Ki- Doon Trek

8.   Chandrashila Snow Trek 

9.   Kuari Pass Trek

10. Roopkund Lake Trek

Chardham Yatra

The Holy River Ganga that flow past the four dams that is located in the state of Uttaranchal in India. It is believed that Goddess Ganga passes upon the Earth in the form of River to help the suffering humanity. It was split into four ways that include Alaknanda (in Badrinath), Mandakini (in Kedarnath), Bhagirathi (in Gangotri) and Yamuna (in Yamunotri). These four places called the Chardham Yatra.

Kumaon Trekking Trip

In Kumaon Himalayan trekking has everything like that an avid trekker would desire, valleys, fauna, flora, lakes, river, peaks. In world it is the second places where a Trekker would love to come again and again.

Panch Kedar Trek

Panch kedar is the five different forms of the Hindu God Shivas, and are known as Kedarnath, Madmaheshwar, Tungnath, and Rudranath.

Dodi Tal

Dodi Tal situated at an elevation of 3024 mts, north of Uttarkashi and it surrounded by dense wood of oak, pine, Deodar and rhododendrons. The trek to Dodi Tal connemnce from Utarkashi to Kalyani and it is reachable by motor.

Kalindikhal Trek

Kalindikhal Trek is the most adventurous trekkers and it is is an extremely challenging expedition-style traverse of the Kalindikhal Pass (5967m) in spectacular Garhwal Himalayas. This kalindikhal trek started from Gangotri and takes you through Nandavan, the base of this Bhagirathi, a place that offers an unparallel view of shivling peak.

Khatling Sahasratal Masartal Trek

This is a lateral glacier, at the source of the river Bhilangana. Sahasratal      and Masartal are on the west and east of it respectively. Khatling Sahasratal trek passes through the thick forests and beautiful green meadows in the beginning. Later, it crosses two passes above 17,000 ft. and negotiates glaciers moraines and a snow patch.

Har- Ki- Doon Trek

Har ki Doon Trekking is one of the most famous treks in Himalaya region. And it also known as introductory treks. Har Ki Doon which is called the hanging valley of gods is a paradise for Trekkers. Owing to its isolation, the area is the paradise for bird watchers and nature lover.

Chandrashila Snow Trek

This takes you to the world’s largest temple Shiva Temple in Tungnath, at a height of 12074ft. It is one of the Panch kedar Shiva temples. Chandrashila Peak at an altitude of 12877 ft. above the sea level. Trekking from Chandrashilla to Chopta via Tungnath Temple and returning to Chopta is around 10 km. This is an all season Trekking.

Kuari Pass Trek

Kuaripass means “Door way”.Once in 1905, Lord Curzon reached Kuari Pass (4652m).He made the trek, and since then it also known as Curzon Trekk. The main attraction of this trek is view of the eastern peaks of Gharwal Himalayas, the twin peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, Trishul, Bertholi, Hathi Ghodi Parvat, Mana, and Neelkanth peaks.

Roopkund Lake Trek

Roopkund trek is situated at a height of 5029 mts in the lap of Trisul Massif as this area is called as “Mystery Lake” as human skeletons and remains of horses from the Paleolithic age was found here. The starting point of this trek is Tharali and it is easily approachable by motor Rishikesh. Roopkund can also can also be reached from Ghat, with Nandpryag situated on the main highway to Dadrinath. This route is passes through lush green grassy land and conifer clinging onto the slopes of hills. 

These treks are very famous for Adventure & Splendid routes, treks, culture. Adventure India is very famous for trek lovers and tourist. Every year Thousands of people come here to make most of these treks and see the true Beauty of treks.

Step by Step Guide for Trekking To Valley Of Flowers

Trekking through the valley of flowers offers ample opportunities to unfold the kept secrets of the Himalayas. The best time to enjoy its vibrant beauty is monsoon when it rains the most every year(July & August). It is situated in the west Himalaya at an attitude of 3600 mts. This Valley of Flowers is a national park that comes under Uttarakhand state of Northern India. Meadows of alpine flowers are its uniqueness. Valley of Flowers is spread over 87.5 sq.km together with Nanda Devi National Park.

Renowned English mountaineers & botanists discovered the valley of flowers while stumbled in Bhyundar Valley of Chamoli district of Uttarakhand state. The valley is decorated with rare and vulnerable spices of blossoming flowers in the month July and August, taking shades of colors as time progressed. The best months to trek are July and August. The locals go with a myth that the valley has been inhabited by fairies. In 1982 the Indian government declared the valley a national park, and presently it has turned a world heritage site. It is a paradise for trekkers, nature lovers and botanists. The Brahmakamal, the Blue Poppy and the Cobra Lilly like rare flowers attract them more.

Trekking To Valley Of Flowers

Location : The valley of flowers sleeps in the lap of Chamoli district of state of Uttarakhand in the western Himalaya of India.

Time For Trekking : July and August are the best months to visit. It gets snow round the year and trek route is almost capped with snow, after and before these two months it is too difficult to enjoy trekking on snow carpet. Carrying important gears for trekking, would be a great help for you trekking guys.

Tourist Attractions : The valley of flowers beholds an unlimited scenic beauty. Whole path and route to the valley of flowers is covered with the beauty of more than 500 rare species of flowers such as Bramhakamal, Calendulas, Daisies, Anemones, Rhododendron, Orchids, Poppies and Primulas etc, and extended walk in the valley offers more diverse Alpine flowers.

Hemkund Sahib-Pilgrim Center

Hemkund Sahib-Pilgrim center is another center of attraction for tourists, basically a Gurudwara - a pilgrim center for Sikh community. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Sikh community. It is located at an attitude of 15,200 ft, very nearer to the valley of flowers, setting of a glacial lake surrounded by seven peaks. The only vehicle available to hire for this place is your foot.

Communication

Joshimath is the nearest town, and it is accessible by road only. There are many options available, you can fly, enjoy bus ride or Indian railway service from new Delhi.

By Air : Jolley Grant Airport is the nearest airport situated in Dehradun which is 315 km away.

By Rail : Haridwar railway station is the nearest railway destination which is 264 km away.

By Road : Nearest stop for valley of flowers from New Delhi by bus is Govindhghat which is on the Rishikesh- Badrinath highway.

Starting Point of your Trek

Govindhghat is the starting place for the valley of flowers trek, and it is 16 km away from Joshimath. Road is easy to ride a motor up to Gobindhghat only. There is a trek about 14 km to get the base camp site called Ghangharia. From Ghangharia, one has to trek for 4-5 km to the valley of flowers and 6 km for Hemkund Sahib on different directions. Camping and lodging is not allowed up there in the valley. It is advisable to come down well before dark.

Lodging and Boarding

It is basically a 10 days trip from new Delhi, and lodging & other facilities up there in the valley of flowers is very important. The valley offers only two months for trekking and the resources are very limited. Lodging facilities available up there in Gangharia, but do not expect any sort of luxury accommodation there. Small hotels and camps are available to stay. Places like, Haridwar, Joshimath and Rishikesh offer good hotels.

Belongings To Carry

• Pack your backpack with T-shirts, light long trousers, Warm long-sleeve shirts, woolen cap, gloves, wind and rain proof jacket. Don't forget to carry your water bottle, camera and 2 pair of sports shoes.

• Sun glasses, cap, sun block, extra battery, flash light, first AID box with daily and emergency medicines are very essential to pack.

• Keep a dairy and a pen to write your memorable experience at night. A novel is very useful during your travel. 

• A pocket knife is always suggested to keep with you for your self protection.

Follow above helpful Tips for Trekking To Valley Of Flowers Tour and Trekking in India Tour will explore the unseen secrets of Nature.

Article Source : http://www.sooperarticles.com/travel-articles/adventure-travel-articles/step-step-guide-trekking-valley-flowers-1209496.html