While
some people like to enjoy the beauty of nature quietly, there are quite a few
people who like to get more adventurous with nature. Luschious, green mountains,
extensive wildlife hidden under the green covers, the enticing meadows, deep
gorges - all these invite them to explore the land, to embark upon a journey of
uncovering the secrets on their own. This is what adventure is all about in
Uttaranchal, its snow covered peaks, its glaciers, valleys hiding numerous
secrets of flora and fauna, its terrains that lie in the state of pure
wilderness.
Some adventure activities are purely meant for adrenaline thrill like skiing,
others are there for exploring like trekking. Then there are the ones which have
both thrill and exploration like river rafting. Apart from these there is safari
which is a relaxed adventure at times or a searching journey at other times.
Uttaranchal is a state which has major area under forest coverage and comprising
mainly of hilly terrain, all the three Himalayan ranges, the greater, middle and
lesser. Even after much of development, much of the hilly terrains that are
untouched and far away from the daily hustle bustle of crowds. That's where the
trekkers step in. With so much of raw, natural wilderness, Uttaranchal is a
trekker's paradise. Quite a few places are in their most primitive forms, in
state of pure wilderness.
The kind of treks one will come across in Uttaranchal range from the easier ones
to moderate and difficult ones, from heights varying from 2000 ft to 7000 ft
approximately. The snow capped peaks, steep climbs, streams and lakes, all add
to the existing charm of nature found in the trek route. The fun of trekking
lies in covering the land on foot, feeling close to what the land offers, to
move at your pace observing closely. It is a physical challenge you take to
reach a particular destination, over coming all that comes in between. The
stakes are high; you are in an unknown territory. You are more of a nomad,
carrying least possible things required. All this is what adds to the thrill and
adventure of trekking. The fun part of trekking will suffer considerably if any
of these are missing. Every trek is unique in its own way, that's what makes it
worth trekking. You walk steeply uphill and then down hill, every day there is a
set distance to cover, not to forget carrying 10 kgs on your back. Uttaranchal
is just the kind of place where you will have this kind of thrill if you decide
to under take a trek here.
Himalayas are stunningly beautiful, while you trek you just want to savor every
sight that you see. Each panoramic view is better than the one gone before and
at every step there is the curiosity to find what lies ahead. What one tries is
a keen close look at the flora and fauna, the alpine meadows, lines and lines of
oak trees. It is not just a physical journey but also a cultural and spiritual
one while you trek in Uttaranchal. It gives you that unique opportunity of
meeting the Himalayan tribes, the mountain folk and knowing their lives from
close by. A study of their customs and costumes is quite interesting. Treks to
many glaciers and kunds that are considered spiritual are also enlightening
experiences.
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Most of the region in Uttaranchal is hilly. There is so much to explore that you
move in any direction, you are sure to run into a hilly terrain. But not every
route might be as interesting, and as full of variety on its way. Some treks
are very popular which many trekkers undertake every year. In spite of so many
trekkers actually trekking along the routes have not lost on any of their
natural beauties. The reason is that there are many trek routes; each of the
main trek routes is accompanied by several smaller ones. These are the easier
ones, undertaken more for fun of camping with friends; then there are routes
which are moderate ones, they also judge your stamina, whether you are capable
of taking more
difficult ones or not. Strenuous ones are strictly for the physically fit and
with some previous experience.
Mussoorie (2000m)
treks are the most popular treks with people who undertake trekking for fun. The
queen of hill stations is the base camp for trekkers. You can undertake a trek
from here to Dehradun (60 kms, 1800 ft), Dhantauli (26 kms, 2,600 ft) and Har Ki
Dun (3506m). Uttarkashi (1158m) is one of the most beautiful places in
Uttaranchal , has panoramic views of Himalayas. It is the gateway to gods and is
the base camp to the holy treks to Gangotri (3,048 m, 100 km), Bhojbasa (3,500
m, 14 km), Gaumukh (3,969 m, ) and Tapovan (4,200 m). There are other treks also
from here to Yamunotri and Kedarnath and other places in the hills.
Nainital
is one of the most famous hill resorts in Kumaon. Main treks from Nainital (1938
m) is to Snow View (2270 m) and Naukuchiya Tal(1800 m),
Apart from these, there are treks from Joshimath, Almora, Munsyari, Chowkari,
Pauri and other places.
Tips, Organised Treks And Equipment
For full details of trek routes one can contact Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam and
Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam. Trekking trips are organised by these bodies in
their respective districts, in which you can enroll. All the equipment (tents,
rucksacks etc) are available with GMVN on hire.
Some tips for trekkers are to wear well fitted comfortable shoes, know some
basic first aid, carry energy boosters like chocolates, candies, dry fruits,
glucose etc. One should not walk too fast, or exhaust himself unnecessarily as
this will not let you enjoy the trek.
Famous Skiing Places In Uttaranchal
Auli
Auli is one of the most preferred destinations for skiing in Uttaranchal. 16
kilometers from Joshimath, Auli Resort, run by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN)
is a favorite spot in winters. The major attraction among skiers here is a three
kilometer long slope with an altitude of 3049 m to 2519 m. Much credit of making
the place a favorite among the skiers goes to GMVN. They have provided
facilities like snow beaters to keep the slopes perfect for skiing and others.
Another good thing is that there is a 500 meter long ski lift to take skiers
back to the top so that they save time and energy.
All the equipment for skiing is available with GMVN, but the tourists should
come equipped with heavy woolens as the weather is really cold. The best time to
be here for skiing is from December end to March. And if you are not trained for
skiing, never mind, there are qualified ski instructors here to teach you the
sport. GMVN organizes 7 and 14 day skiing courses for starters. Together with
the views of coniferous forests and oak trees, virgin slopes of snow, Auli is a
skier's dream paradise. Every year National skiing championship and skiing
festivals also attract major chunk of skiers to the place.
Dayara
Bugyal
Dayara Bugyal is a skiing resort some 28 Kilometers from Uttarkashi, on the
Uttarkashi Gangotri road. Bugyal , a local word, means 'high altitude meadow'.
There is an 8 kilometer trek before you finally reach Dayara. As an avid fan of
skiing , you will realize that the trek is worth it. Located at an elevation of
3048 meters, the place is breathtaking in terms of natural beauty. The view you
get of Himalayas from here is panoramic.
Skiing at Dayara becomes a lifetime experience with its 28 kilometers of skiing
slopes and literally few other skiers to cross your way; you are on your own for
miles of virgin snow territories. Accommodation is not much of a problem in
Bhatwari which is a 6 kilometer trek from here.
Mundali
129 kilometers from the capital of Dehradun is Mundali which is also under the
same district. The route to Mundali is via Chakrata, it is motorable distance of
36 kilometres. Not just the place has vast expanses of snow covered fields, but
also offers some astounding views of Himalayas. The place a delight particularly
for professional skiers, miles and miles of snow fields and almost no traffic to
crisscross. But accommodation here is limited to the forest guest house.
Munsyari
Sixty- six kilometers from Munsyari and 127 kilometers from Pithoragarh is
Munsyari at an altitude of 2135 meters. Munsyari is not just a skiing
destination, it is also a base camp to treks to Milam, Namik and Ralam Glaciers.
For accommodation purpose there is a rest house. The place is the bordering
beauty since it is the getaway to Johar region.
Other Skiing Places In Uttaranchal
Apart from those mentioned above there are other slopes in Uttaranchal where you
can have a great skiing vacation with your circles of friends. There won't be
many facilities available at such places but the slopes are mostly deserted and
you have the place for yourself.
Kush Kalyan & Kedar Kantha in Distt. Uttarkashi, Panwali & Matya in Distt. Tehri
Garhwal and Bedni Bugyal in Chamoli are other places with skiing slopes in
Garhwal. Chiplakot Valley in Distt. Pithoragarh in Kumaon is also an option you
could consider.
Safaris
Safaris
are one such activity which bring together the thrill of adventure without
really exhausting you physically. In fact it is quite a laid back activity at
times. An excellent way to go around, safaris in Uttaranchal are exciting ways
to enjoy and explore. With so much of hilly terrain, jungles and wildlife
sanctuaries to look out for, safaris are undoubtedly the best way to go looking
around. To casually explore the wildlife parks, elephant safaris are pretty
exciting, but if you are on some serious spotting of tigers and other wildlife,
and want to cover more area in less time, then nothing better than Jeep safaris.
Safaris in Uttaranchal, both jeep and elephant are associated mainly with jungle
safaris. At some places even horse safaris are also available.
Jungle Safaris (Jeep, Elephant and Horse
Safari)
Jeep
safaris are most convenient in Corbett National Park where to spot tigers and
other animals, one need to cover large distances in less time (Corbett is spread
in 520 sq. Kms). In Rajaji National
Park (820 sq. Kms) also jeep safari is the best way to move around.
Elephant safaris on the other hand are sort of a laid back activity. As you sit
on the back of this largest mammal of earth's back and it walks in its seemingly
careless manner, you start feeling the fun of it. Elephant safaris enable you to
be more to be more observant since they are slower; many people go for it for
experience sake. Horse safaris are also available in these National parks. Horse
safari is quite a sporty activity as compared to elephant safari.
Jeep Safari through Uttaranchal
Apart from wildlife safaris, there are also other kinds of safaris. Jeep safari
tours are available with many tour operators or you can undertake one yourself.
Covering this hill state on jeep is quite an experience. Finding one’s way
through the lesser known wilds, taking your own route or moving from one
district to another, observing flora, fauna, people and their lifestyle at your
own pace - this can be quite an experience. Jeeps can be hired from Uttaranchal
itself, but the driver should be trained to drive in hilly areas, narrow and
curved paths.
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River Rafting
River
Rafting is an adventure sport which thrills and chills you at the same time. It
is a challenge to tame a wild river. When it comes to river rafting, Uttaranchal
offers the broadest possible options for river rafting in the world, from milder
river courses to wilder ones. Uttaranchal has in abundance rivers and terrains
to suit all levels of river rafting. The challenge and thrill of flowing with
the river and controlling yourself at the same time is the true thrilling
experience.
Following the river course right from the time it emerges from the glacier up to
the plains is a not just a fun water sports. Deep gorges, rocky course,
boulders, all the way is what one across.
Rafting in Garhwal
Garhwal is the origin land of many rivers in Uttaranchal,
Ganga being the most prominent. The river courses in Uttaranchal can appeal to a
novice as well as an amateur. At Devprayag, where Alaknanda and Bhagirathi meet
Ganga, where the waters are frothy and racy. River rafting here in Grade IV to V
is full of thrill, recommended for experts only. Down the course of the river,
ahead of Devprayag, the river turns into a pool, just suitable for amateurs. The
best thing about river rafting in Garhwal is sight seeing. Rafting through the
river, you closely follow the white sands where you camp in night. You can also
see the grassy terrains of oaks, pine spruce and fir, the terraced fields, and
here and now glimpses of some wildlife. Not to forget the spirituality of the
river combined with the riverside ashrams. Since when did rafting get so much
more then just wading in the frothy waters, well, the answer is for you to find
in Garhwal.
The most popular stretch for rafting in Garhwal is between Kaudilya and Shivpuri.
There are other stretches also including a variety of grades on rivers Alaknanda,
Mandakini and Bhagirathi.
Rafting in Kumaon
Rafting in Kumaon is no less exciting. In fact, it has long stretches of
dangerous waters where only the experienced can make an attempt. River Kali
Ganga, also known as Sharda in the lower reaches, enters India from Nepal. At
Jauljibi where it meets River Gori, it is then that the real adventure begins.
The river gains volume and for the next 117 kilometers it is a taxing run. It
passes through some dangerous rapids, hence this run is recommended only for
experienced (Grade IV). It's a three day rafting to Tanakpur. Further down the
course of river, rafting gets easier.
Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam, an undertaking of Uttaranchal government organises
river rafting courses at Kaudilya which is 38 kilometers from Rishikesh. They
offer courses, equipment etc. Trained professionals teach river rafting in
Ganges. For more information about river rafting expeditions in Uttaranchal, you
can contact GMVN.
Best Time to Go
The best time for river rafting, if you have some experience, is during summer.
It is at this time that water level rises due to melting of snow and the
monsoons. For beginners, months of August and September are best as the water
level is lower and manageable. Even springs and early summers can be considered
for rafting. Rafting in winters is a complete objection because many rivers are
frozen, the climate is chilled and getting soaked means inviting hypothermia.
Mountaineering
Himalayas
with its snow fields and great heights offer some great opportunities for
mountaineering. Uttaranchal with its ranges of Greater, Middle and Lesser
Himalayas offers all kinds of mountaineering experiences, from the strenuous,
difficult ones to milder, easier ones. From 3000 meters to 7000 meters
approximately, all kinds of mountaineering expeditions can be carried out here.
Angling and Fishing
Himalayan rivers offer some great opportunities for angling and fishing. Anglers
from all over the world come here with a hook and a line to make a catch. The
fresh waters of Ganga and Kali can give a great
opportunity to anglers. There are some 31 species of freshwater fish, trout,
brown and rainbow trout, murrel, catfish and cyprinids here.
Nature Camps
This is for school children; Uttaranchal Forest Corporation organizes these
camps. These 'eco or adventure' camps are organized in the hills of Garhwal and
Himalayas. The content of the camp is decided on the basis of the needs of the
group, the age group of children etc. There are summer, winter, spring and
autumn camps. In all seasons, except for summers, children are camped in tents,
in summers there are alpine cottages. These camps make the children feel closer
to Mother Nature with the right dose of adventure, they learn and have fun.
Delecious food is the added advantage. Uttarkashi, Nainital and Rudraprayag are
favorites of little campers.
Rock Climbing
The
rocky cliffs of Himalayas challenge the climbers to take great risks. The varied
topography of Himalyas make them every climber's dream. In Uttaranchal, the
areas of rock climbing are centered around Gangotri. The best time for rock
climbing here is in summers and autumns. Many rock climbing clubs have also come
in the region.
Canoeing
Though canoeing is sports mainly carried out on vast expanses of sea but
Uttaranchal also offers you place where you can enjoy this water sport.
Rishikesh, Dakpathar, Ramganga in Corbett park are the places in Uttaranchal for
canoeing. The best thing about canoeing is that, it is an eco friendly sport.
The unique conical ends of canoes make them easily glidable in water anywhere.
