Kailash-Manas Sarovar Yatra Series - 5
Nyalam to Manas Sarovar
Nyalam is situated at
about 35 km from the Kodari border at 12, 300 ft altitude. It is
located in the Shigatse Prefecture of Tibet. It has expanded from
being a village to a small town by housing shopping streets and
hotels. From here onwards, we start experiencing the climatic
variations of a typical Tibetan Plateau. We can feel a warm morning
changing into a windy noon, accompanied by sudden downpour. Evenings
will be very cold and it gets dark very late. Nyalam is the place
where we get acclimatized with the crazy weather conditions of Tibet.
It is better to be wrapped up with warm cloths.
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| Nyalam (image credit:Prajna LS |
The road from Kodari
border to Nyalam was mesmerizing. The journey begins at the lower
point of a Ghat section and as we move on, the landscape changes.
Green hill slopes, river streams, steep valleys, countless
waterfalls…nature unwinds in varied forms. As we approached Nyalam,
we began noticing the Rocky Mountains and dry pastures.
We were accommodated
in a dormitory. Accommodation for all Yatris will be the same upto
Manas Sarovar. These towns will be closed for winter. Don’t expect
any luxury at these dormitories. There will be common latrines with
very poor conditions. It is better to carry tissue roles. At some
points, especially during the Kailash Parikrama, we used the open
ground for that purpose. But, be careful about the dogs there. Never
go alone.
Food will be prepared
by the Sherpa team, a soup will be provided every evening. Good
enough for the survival. The leader of our Sherpa team was Sangey.
The team carries utensils, cylinders, groceries and vegetables in a
separate vehicle. After reaching every destination, they would be
busy with unloading, cooking, washing, serving, and again loading
everything into the luggage van. They were our chefs, guides and
doctors! They are well experienced trekkers; they know how to survive
in extreme weather conditions. If at all could get through the risky
Parikrama of the Mount Kailash it was due to the support of these
Sherpas. Very friendly and affectionate companions.
The team used to
provide the Diamox tablet after dinner. Diamox tablets are essential
to overcome the ‘altitude sicknesses. We had started the diamox
course in Kadori itself. As we move on to higher altitudes, we start
feeling nausea, headache, and fever. Symptoms may vary from person to
person. Increased heartbeat, pulse rate, palpitation, sweat, and
loss appetite may cause troubles. We get tired very easily. It
becomes very hard even to walk. Once after acclimatizing with the
climate, these symptoms may disappear. Nevertheless, it is better to
take diamox tablets to avoid the risk.
You can buy
accessories of trekking in Nyalam. Walking sticks, down jackets,
shoes, water cans could be bought here. Carry enough Chinese Yauns,
you may need the currency to pay for porters and ponies during
Kailash Parikrama.
Next day morning, we
left Nyalam for Dongba. It takes about 8 hours to reach Dongba from
Nyalam. On the way to Dongba, we passed through the Brahmaputra River
valley. We had finished the packed lunch on the banks of the
Brahmaputra River. We reached Dongba at about 5 in the evening. Most
of our teammates were tired and despite the intake of Diamox, we were
suffering from Altitude sickness. Headache, nausea and loss of
appetite were common symptoms. We were instructed strictly to cover
our body with thermals and down jackets. We stayed that night at
Dongba.
The most awaited day
had arrived. We left Dongba, next morning. It is about 3 to 4 hours
journey from Dongba to Lake Manas. Our bus moved along the serpentine
path, passing through bare hillocks covered under white clouds. Our
initial excitement to reach the ultimate destination had been hushed
by the tedious travel experience. Most of our senior mates looked
tired and sick. It was indeed a hard time for us to manage our mental
and physical health under the erratic climate condition of Tibet.
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| Manas sarovar lake (image credit:Prajna LS) |
But, all that misery
seemed temporary when we had a glimpse of Lake Manas from our moving
bus. It was a clear noon, fortunately. All our dismal faces
brightened up. Wow, what a breathtaking moment!! In a clear day
light, the lake surrounded by snowy mountain peaks like a glittering
blue veil appeared heavenly. It was an ethereal sight.
[To be continued…]
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Pilgrimage,
Tripura: Land of Oranges
It was a
princely state in the colonial times. The state at present, is just
gearing up for the contemporary trends in tourism. Tripura, best
known for rich natural landscape, is quiet region compared to its
sister states in the North Eastern India.
Agartala,
the capital city of Tripura is the most visited city. Accommodation
with wide range of hotels and resorts and connectivity make Agartala
a possible tourist junction in Tripura.
People of
Tripura feel proud if you mention the name of Indian legendary music
composer late S.D. Burman. S.D. Burman, possessing a royal
inheritance in Tripura, was born and brought up in present day
Bangladesh. But, he is considered an icon of Tripura till today.
Another legendary personality, the poet Rabindranath Tagore also is
respected highly in this state. He seems to have great affinity with
the Manikya rulers of Tripura. So, you would win the hearts of
Tripura people by mentioning these two famous personalities!
Total 19
tribes live in the state. The Kokborok speaking community is the main
dominant tribe among all. At present the state houses mixed culture.
Influence of Bengali culture on food and festivities is apparently
visible.
Agriculture
is the main activity here. Tripura borders Myanmar in the east and
Bangladesh in the west.
How to
reach: Agartala is well connected by road,
rail and airways. Flights are available from Agartala to Delhi,
Kolkata, Imphal, Silichar and Guwahati. You would get connecting
flights to other cities. Agartala is connected to Assam, Dhaka and
Comilla by train. The state is connected by only one National Highway
and that is not in good condition.
What
to buy: Buy Bamboo and Cane products and
Tripuri traditional dress. Tripuri traditional dress consists of
three parts out of which only two parts are worn nowadays. The
pattern will be somewhat like wrap around and a top, but it is known
as Rignai (wrap around) and Risa (top).
What
to see: Most visited city in Trpura is
Agartala. Other parts of the state could be reached by buses and taxis. Interiors of the state can offer government guest houses and
low budget hotels.
Agartala:
The city boasts of having a rich historical connection with the Manikya rulers. The city was the capital of the Princely State that ruled over the region. Ujjayanta Palace, Museum, Sukanta Academy, and Purbasa Emporium are the main attractions in the city.
Unakoti,
It is at about 178 km from Agartala, is a place of attraction from archeological point of view. This place is known for stone carvings on a hill belonging to 7th/8th centuries. These rock carvings of Shiva and other gods are situated randomly on a hill. Imagine a hill comprising carvings on its huge rocks everywhere! Also visit Debtamura and Pilak sites.Tripura Sundari Temple:
it is considered one of the Shakti Peethas in India. The place is located about 55 km from Agartala.Gomuti Bird sanctuary:
This is located at about 40 km from Agartala and is a good place for bird lovers.Jampui Hill:
This is at about 250 km from the capital. This is a beautiful hill station comprising orange gardens. Visit during winter months to see orange trees bearing orange fruits.
Jampui Hill
(image credit:
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Explore North East India-Nagaland
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| Map of Nagaland image courtesy: wikimedia |
Nagaland, the land of 16 indigenous tribes and their unique traditions, is located between Assam, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar. Kohima is the capital city. The city of Dimapur bordering Assam is the main city inside the state having good connection with other parts of the country by road, rail and Airways. It takes about one and half hour to reach Kohima from Dimapur by road.
Culture of Nagaland
comprises of indigenous tribes following the traditions of their
forefathers, but, most of them have been Christianized during the
Colonial rule. One can expect modernized cities and people over
there. However, the native culture is preserved through community
festivals and local rituals. The Great Indian
Hornbill festival is one such cultural gathering of all tribal
people.
It is the home for
Hornbills, Tragopan (State Bird of Nagaland), and Mithun
(domesticated Gaur species. The geographical terrain contains hill
ranges. The region experiences cool weather throughout the year. It
is one of the most hospitable destinations in North East India.
Nagaland is served by
one airport located at Dimapur. Connecting flights and direct flights
are available to Guwahati and Kolkata. Dimapur is the well connected
railway head in the state. Buses and rental taxis are available to
travel around the state.
You can stay either in
Dimapur or Kohima. However, do not miss to experience village stays.
Bamboo huts built in the model of the tribal huts provide you a
different experience. Do not worry about the amenities. The huts and
guest houses at the villages provide western facilities.
Indian tourists are
required to get Inner Lane Permit and foreign tourists no longer
require the Restricted Area Permit (barring tourists from Bangladesh,
China and Pakistan).
Destinations to visit:
- Dimapur: This is an ancient city known for Ahom rule and the Kachari Dimasa rulers. It is said that the region in which the present day Dimpaur is located was the place of Hidimba (wife of Bhima) from the Mahabharata. At present the city is the gateway to Nagaland. Ruins of old Kachari tribe are preserved in the city.
- Kohima: This city witnessed the famous battle between the Japanese and the British forces during the Second World War. Visit the war memorial and the Kisama Heritage Village here. Make a trip during the first week of December; you would get to participate in the famous Hornbill Festival.
- Mokokchung: This district is the home of Ao tribe. Visit the Mopungchuket village.
Mokokchung (image credit:stylesatlife.com) - Mon: It is the home for the Konyak tribe. You can find the tribal people appearing in traditional tribal dress. This district borders Myanmar. The district hosts Aoleong Monyu Festival in April.
- Wokha: This is the home for Lotha tribe. This is best known for landscape, and fresh farm products.
How to reach Nagaland:
By Air - The state has only one airport which is at Dimapur, It's connected with Dibrugarh, Delhi, and Kolkata by regular flights.
By Rail - Dimapur Railway station is the only railway station in Nagaland and it is connected to Guwahati and Kolkata.
By Road - Taking a road to reach Nagaland is best way to visit Nagaland because the state has a good network of National and state highway with other major cities of India. You can opt or book private taxi or cab online from Dimapur, Kohima and Guwahati.Tag :
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Meghalay: Land of clouds!
Meghalay, as the name suggests, is the land of clouds. The state is the home for highest rainfall belt comprising Chirapunji. The state shares its borders with Assam and Bangladesh. Shillong is the capital city. It is a state that is adorned by green hills all over and is thus, districts of the state are divided on the basis of hill regions. So, you see Khasi Hills district, Jaintia Hills district etc.
The state
is a rich source of coal, limestone, dolomite and quartz. Timber,
bamboo, reed, cane, lemon-grass, thatch grass and medicinal herbs are
grown all across. The state experiences highest rainfall in the
country.
Khasi
culture is one of the indigenous cultures of the region. The
community follows matrilineal kinship tradition. Khasi
is one of the spoken languages of Meghalaya.
Let
us explore tourist destination in Meghalaya. Destinations are divided
according to the hill districts in which they are situated. Exotic
landscape, waterfalls and caves are the main attractions in the
state. You would be interested to visit deep rock caves wading
through waterways! Meghalaya houses such ones.
Khasi Hills Region:
Khasi Hills region
Image courtesy:
Shillong is the most popular city
located in the Khasi Region. The capital city is the gateway to enter
Meghalaya. You can visit the city all through the year. It is a well
connected to Assam. Shillong is a hill resort comprising waterfalls,
green valleys, river brooks and gardens. The city entertains wide
range of guests. It would be an ideal place to hold business
conferences.
This
region is the home for heavy rainfall areas including Cherrapunji.
Smit, Mawaphlang, Sohra (Cherrapunjee),
Laitkynsew, Mawsynram, Nongkhum Island, Ranikor river valley and
Mawlynnong Villages to experience exotic landscape.
Jaintia Hills Region:
This
is located towards the border of Bangladesh. Dawki, is the gateway to
enter Bangladesh. It is a border city where lots of border crossing
activities go on. It is a route for international trade between India
and Bangladesh. The Umngot River is the natural boundary between the
two countries.
Tyrshi
Falls, Lalong Park, Krang Suri Falls, Umlawan Cave (this is
considered to be the deepest and the longest cave in the
sub-continent), Thadlaskein lake -these are some important sites to
visit.
.jpg) |
| Thlumuwi Waterfalls (image credit: |
Get in:
There is a small airport in Shillong about 35 km from the city. It is called Umroi Airport. Flights to Kolkata are available. Best way is to reach via Guwahati, which is just 2-3 hours journey by road. Helicopter service is available from Guwahati to Tura and Tura to shilling.What to buy:
You would get bamboo artifacts. Buy Naga and Manipuri shawls that you get in Meghalaya. You would get Manipuri wrap-around skirts and lungis too. Khasi Scrub, a natural handmade scrub you would get on the streets.Tag :
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Mizoram
Mizoram
is one of the less travelled states in North Eastern region. It could
be termed as a state of hills; cities are built up on the hill slops
in almost all districts of the state. The state is best known for
close-knit community sense. The Mizo people are less conscious about
class distinctions, it is said.
Mizoram
is located on the southern tip of North East India hosting indigenous
ethnic communities. However, culture of Mizo people has undergone
transformation due to Christian Missionaries in the early 18th
and 19th
centuries. Almost all communities are Christianized, it is doubtful
yet, how distinct are they now, in real terms.
The state
of Mizoram is surrounded by Myanmar and Bangladesh, two foreign
countries. Assam, Manipur and Tripura are the Indian states bordering
Mizoram. Aizawal is the state capital.
How to
reach:
The
Lengpui Airport situated at about 35 km from Aizawal, the state
capital is connected to Guwahati and Kolkata. Silichar in Assam (180
km from Aizawal) is the nearest railhead. Buses and private vehicles
are available from Silichar to Aizawal.
One needs
to obtain Inner Lane Permit. Carry your photo ID and copies of your
photographs. Entry formalities can be done at these cities: Kolkata,
Guwahati, Shillong, Delhi and Silichar.
Main
occupation in Mizoram is agriculture. Up until recently Mizo people
used to practice the age-old ‘Jhum’ (slash and burn) cultivation.
Now the government has introduced new methods of farming. People are
uniquely distinct and show strong community sense.
MIzo
people are best known by their Bamboo pole dance which is called
Cheraw Dance. They celebrate the festival of Thalfavang Kut Festival
every year in the month of November. This is a harvest festival.
Cultural games and dances will be showcased during then.
Mizoram
offers cloud filled hills, emerald valleys, meandering streams, and
unique tribal culture. Weather would be pleasant all through the
year. September to May would be the best time to visit. Buy
handicrafts, hand woven fabrics and bamboo crafts.
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| image courtesy: indianetzone.com |
Tourist
destinations in Mizoram:
- Aizawal: This hill town is closer to many important tourist destinations in Mizoram like Reiek village on a mountain top, Durtang Hills, Hmuifang, Berawtang, Solomon’s Temple, and Khuangchera Puk Cave. Don’t miss to visit the World’s Largest Family in Baktawang Village. Aizawal has good many hotels and resorts with modern amenities. Make the city your base destination. Rejoice your shopping in the traffic free Bara Bazar.
- What else would be more interesting than to explore exotic forests, steep hills, waterfalls in Mizoram?! Visit Phawngpui Blue Mountain which is located near Myanmar border. It is at about 230 km from Aizawal. You would be enthralled by rare kind of orchids and rhododendrons flowers.
image courtesy: industrialtour.com - Sibuta Lung Stone Architecture at Tachhip Village (20 km from Aizawal), Memorial of Chhingpui, Pangzawal Village, Lung Memorial Stone, Tualchang Stone slabs , Tomb of Vanhimailian, Vantawang Falls are some other tourist sites near Aizawal. Aizawal city is the main tourist point in Mizoram.
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Manipur: the land of Gandharvas!
Manipur,
being the home for a tradition of antiquity called Sanamahism and an
oldest ethnic community called Metei, is known as the ‘Switzerland
of East”. Imphal is the capital city.
Manipur
is the land of unique Metei culture representing unique dance style
and sports traditions. The region is known for elegant dance styles,
music tradition, martial arts and sculpture. The Rasalila dance with
delicate and graceful movements is known to be inherited by
Gandharvas. Pung Cholom, a group dance performed by playing a
percussion instrument called Pung, is a dance form performed by male
dancers.
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| image credit: manipuri.20m.com |
The state
was founded in 1972. It is surrounded by three Indian states
(Mizoram, Nagaland, Assam) and a foreign country (Myanmar).
Manipur’s
geographical terrain contains river valleys, and hills. The natural
environment in Manipur has been undisturbed so far. The presence of
AFSPA has been a matter of concern and you might have heard of Irom
Sharmila the brave lady of Manipur who has been protesting against
it.
Manipur
is connected well by Imphal Airport. The capital town is linked well
to Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Silichar and Agartala by air and
roadways. If you are traveling by train, Dimapur in Nagaland would be
the nearest destination. But, Dimapur is located at about 220 km from
Imphal.
Manipur
hosts a 10 days cultural fest from 21st
to 30th November
every year. It is known as the Manipur Sangai Festival.
Accommodation:
Imphal city is the best place
to stay. You would get plenty of hotels. If you want to check resorts
in the interiors of Manipur, you would get of course.
Cuisine:
Staple food is rice along with leafy vegetables and fish. They use
herbs and spices while preparing food. Serve in small banana leaf
pouches. Ngari, Iromba, Chamfoot and Morok are some popular names of
Manipuri dishes.
Shopping:
Go for Handloom articles, silk sarees, scarves, bamboo articles,
ivory articles, shawls and jewellery.
Important
tourist destinations:
- Bishnupur district: The popular tourist spot - Loktak Lake, a 14th century Vishnu temple, Keibul Lamjao National Park, INA memorial and the Loukoipat Lake. Loktak Lake is situated at about 48 km from Imphal. A tourist guest house attached with a cafeteria is there on an island called Sendra Island facing the lake.
- Imphal is divided into two districts: Imphal East and Imphal West. Imphal, the state capital is located in Imphal West district. Manipur State Museum, Shaheed Minar, Zoological garden, palace, Ima Market and the very famous Khonghampat Orchidarium are the main attraction in the district. The Orchidarium houses more than 100 orchid varieties. It is located on the outskirts of Imphal city.
- Senapati district: The district houses old villages belonging to age old Naga tribes. Yangkhullen and Makhel are the quite known among them. Mao, an oldest hill station is located in this district. Dzukou valley is the most popular tourist place in the Senapati district. With picturesque landscape and unique Lily flowers the valley attracts nature loving tourists. The valley is the home for the highest mountain peak in Manipur named, Manipur Mount. Sadhu Chiru Waterfall is also located in the same district.
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Kailash-Manas Sarovar Yatra Series-4
The Friendship Bridge
Our aim was to cross the Kodari border that day. We took the Arniko highway that connects Kathmandu with China occupied Tibet. Kodari is a small township comprising Tibetan migrants mostly. Nepali people are scantly visible. It is the last town of Nepal. Traveler inns are available providing only basic amenities.
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| Image Courtesy:Prajna LS |
Next day morning, we proceeded towards Kodari border along with a team of Sherpa men in a private travel bus. These Sherpa team accompanies us throughout our journey. This team takes care of routine breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is a team consisting of trekking experts, a chef, and other helpers. A pantry vehicle follows the bus carrying pilgrims. Fortunately, our Sherpa team consisted of very caring and jovial persons.
Our aim was to cross the Kodari border that day. We took the Arniko highway that connects Kathmandu with China occupied Tibet. Kodari is a small township comprising Tibetan migrants mostly. Nepali people are scantly visible. It is the last town of Nepal. Traveler inns are available providing only basic amenities.
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| Image Courtesy:Prajna LS |
Kodari lies in a God gifted ambience. Whether it is a boon or a curse, one should decide for himself. Situated on top of a Himalayan valley, the town is blessed with a picturesque landscape. Green hills, countless waterfalls and the meandering Botikosi River flowing down the valley make this town look beautiful. However, the fate of migrants is a big question mark. Poverty and an uncertain future haunt the township and that is strikingly visible for travelers.
The road to Kadori from Kathmandu is called the Arniko Highway. This road has been constructed with the initiatives taken by the China Government for the improvement of bilateral trade and commerce. You can’t call it a proper highway. It is a narrow strip of road skirted by steep hills on side and the Botikosi River Valley on the other side. Landslides are common during rains. We could notice the damage already done by previous landslides. A scary highway indeed.
A bridge has been built across the Botikosi River and the bridge is known as ‘Friendship Bridge’. This bridge is a part of the Arniko Highway connecting China with Nepal. One will have to cross the bridge on foot. Nepali vehicles are not allowed on this. A red line has been drawn in the middle to mark the boundary between two countries. Chinese military commandos will be guarding on the other half. Border crossing is done through strict immigration process.
Chinese immigration center is located on the Chinese side of the bridge. That area is called Zangmu. The United Nations has not officially recognized Chinese status on the Tibetan territory. However, China is executing its supremacy over the land and visitors are supposed to respect the law of the land. After crossing the border, tourists will have to travel with Chinese travel guides in the Chinese permit vehicles.
Due to Indo-China border tensions the Kailsh Manas Sarovar Yatra was banned from 1962 to 1981. Kadori is the only official gateway to enter China from Nepal side. We were strictly warned in Kathmandu as not to talk about political affairs of China and about Dalai Lama. It is almost a known factor there. There seems to be an undeclared deal among the Nepali merchants/businessmen/traders/travel agencies. They do not encourage any kind of activities against the Chinese policies in Kathmandu or anywhere inside the Chinese territory. In that way they have secured entry into the Chinese territory. One can use the trade route for uninterrupted trade and commerce. That must be the reason, perhaps, that the number of private travel agencies in Kathmandu is increasing day by day for conducting Kailash-Manas Sarovar Yatra. These private agencies assure us of a safe journey inside the Chinese Territory for the same reason. As long as one does not protest or keeps showing green signal to the Chinese Supremacy the show goes on!
Most of our travel mates were elders. Most of them had come to accomplish the ultimate yatra, it was a dream come true for them. They were excited, thrilled to have that ultimate experience of reaching the abode of Shiva. However, the Kailash Manasarovar yatra (on this route) makes us to think about the bilateral relations of India and Nepal with China. We did share a bit of unexplainable anxiety, could observe the same in the eyes of the migrant workers crossing the bridge everyday for the daily bread.
One needs to obtain a valid passport and a Chinese Visa before crossing the border. We had group Visa, but we had to get through the immigration check in. The Chinese agent booked by the Nepali travel agency must be present on the Chinese side to complete the formalities. To our bad luck, that fellow didn’t turn up on that day. We were put up in a roadside inn. We waited till the evening for the Chinese guide. Late in the evening, our Nepali guide came back with the message that the Chinese guide would come next day morning. We were made to stay in the same inn where we had lunch that noon.
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| Image Courtesy:Prajna LS |
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| Image Courtesy:Prajna LS |
Houses of that town were roughly built on the hill slope, terraced residences. Timber houses without foundation. The Inn we had stayed was built on the edge of a slope overlooking the Botikosi river stream. It had a balcony and if we stand on that we would feel as if we were standing on a hanging bridge! Such an unstable condition. Kids of migrant workers rush towards you asking for snacks, and money. Pretty and adorable Tibetan faces, mostly girls and women were seen.
Next day, we woke up to a chilly morning, bought hot water paying 100 Nepali rupees for each bucket, had bath and got ready to cross the border. After this day, we again had bath only in Kathmandu on our return journey, on the twelfth day! It is just five minutes’ walk from our inn to the Friendship Bridge. We crossed the bridge in a line. It was indeed an emotional moment for all of us to cross the border of a country on foot. I was imagining about the experience of crossing the Indo-Pak border!
Photography is not allowed on the bridge. Even at the immigration center, visitors are not allowed to take photos. But, we noticed a few foreign visitors shooting outside the immigration center. Please confirm anyway with your travel guides before taking snaps. We took a snap of the bridge from a far distance.
The Chinese guide had arrived and we proceeded towards Nyalam in a bus. The road from Zangmu to Manassarovar is well maintained. We would be provided with a well conditioned luxury bus to travel. So, the bus journey till we reach Manas Sarovar is completely hassle free. But, one can’t be so confident about the accommodation facility. Now, we have entered the Tibetan Plateau.
Let’s explore the Tibetan plateau in the next episode!
Tag :
Pilgrimage,
Explore North East India
North-Eastern India is
the less explored region in India compared to other parts of the
nation. Lack of accessibility was the major concern for the tourists.
But, now, the region is slowly opening up to nature enthusiasts.
Though there are instances of separatist protests and agitations in a
few parts of the region, tourists activities go on. However, it is
better to update yourself before landing up there.
North East India, as
the name suggests, is located to the North-Eastern part of India
bordering China (Southern Tibet), Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. The
region consists of seven states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur,
Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. Rich biodiversity,
indigenous local cultures and picturesque landscape have made this
region versatile and unique. Let us explore the tourism possibilities
of each state within this region. There are two World Heritage Sites
in the region and they are located in Assam: Kaziranga Wildlife
Sanctuary and Manas Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam.
Arunachal
Pradesh
Known as ‘The land
of Dawn lit Mountains’, the state of Arunachal Pradesh is located
on the eastern most part of North Eastern India bordering China,
Bhutan, Myanmar, Nagaland and Assam. Bound by the Himalayan Mountains
in the north, the state is the home for exclusively rare variety of
orchids. Hence it is also called the Orchid State of India.
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| Image credit: |
Culture
of Arunachal Pradesh comprises indigenous tribes and Buddhist
traditions mainly. Most of the tribal language belongs to
Tibeto0Burman family, which is known as Tani language. Itanagar is
the capital city.
Buddhist
Gompas occupy the larger section of state heritage sites and thus
makes the state a destination for ‘Spiritual Tourism’. The Tawang
Monastery is one of the important Buddhist sites in the entire India.
Travellers
need Inner Lane Permits to travel within the state. There are
different travel circuits marked by the Tourism Authorities and the
tourists will have to mention to which circuit they will be
travelling.
Travel
locations within the state are spread out among five river valleys
(the Kameng, the Subansiri, the Siang, the Lohit and the Tirap),
lakes, Himalayan peaks and Himalayan forests. The climate depends
upon the locations; freezing Greater Himalayas, cool Middle Himalayas
or moderate lower Himalayas.
Four
main travel circuits are:
- Tezpur-Tipi-Bombdilla-Tawang
- Tinsukia-Tezu-parasuramkund
- Margherita-Miao-Namdapha
- Itanagar-Ziro-Daporijo-Along-Pasighat
Main
tourist destinations within the state are:
- Tawang Monastery: This 17th century Buddhist monastery is the largest in India located about 180 km from Bomdilla. It is situated at 10,000 ft altitude.
- Ziro: This is the headquarters of Lower Subansiri district. This town is known for community festivals hosted by the Apatani tribe.
- Namdapha Tiger Project
- Sela Lake near Bomdilla
- Malinathan temple, Rukmini Nagar, Parasuram Kund are associated with epics of India.
- Itanagar: the state capital houses archaeological sites. Ita Fort, Ganga lake, Jawaharlal Museum are main attractions.
The
state is not served by a proper airport. Airports in the Assam state
are the nearest points for air travellers. By road, the state is
connected to Tezpur of Assam. Soon it will be connected by a railway
line Harmuti to Naharlagun. Stay in guest houses, lodges, private
hotels and home stays.
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Booking a Cab for 1st Time?
Are you planning to
take your family for a leisurely holiday and you are thinking of
making your own travel arrangements? If you are confused whether to
hire a taxi or to travel in bus, then we have a suggestion, book a
cab. By hiring a taxi you would not only be saving time but also your
money. Don’t be surprised. Rental cars are affordable by anyone
these days. Moreover, cabs can be booked online and that is made easy
by Clear Car Rental Company.
If you are booking a
cab for the 1st time, you would naturally be scared and
confused. Will that be affordable, reliable, or will that be
convenient…all sorts of doubts arise in your mind. Online Cab
Booking services are plenty these days, and you can book a cab
through your cell phones. Here is a trustworthy Online Cab Booking
service provider that clears all your doubts regarding cab booking,
follow Clear Car Rentals.
There are two ways
for cab booking which is followed usually; one is the conventional
way of booking through travel agents and another one is on the spot
booking. Online Cab Booking is the new wave in the history of cab
booking in India. It is as reliable as your travel agent and more
efficient than him.
Online cab booking
would be done through online service providers who are connected to
various travel agencies and cab owners. Clear Car Rental Company, a
reliable online rental car service provider, guides you how to book a
car. It is fast, easy and simple.
Open the Clear Car
Rental web page. On the home page, you would see a search box. Just
fill the details asked in the search box. Choose the type of service
you need: whether it is an out station trip, local or transfer
service. Click whether you want for a round trip, a one way drop off
or a multicity travel. Enter the starting point and end point,
duration, date and time.
Now, you will be
directed to our price deal on the different types of vehicles and
select the one you prefer. Book the car! You can pay the full amount
or partial in advance. Everything would be mentioned online. If you
have our discount coupon, mention that. We accept all types of cards,
and you can make cash payment also.
Filter your search
through wide range of vehicles and price range. Our staff will be at
your service round the clock. Advantage of online cab booking is that
you can book in advance, can choose from wide range of booking
options, vehicles and price list. Booking is done very quickly.
We are connected to
210+ cities now. We provide rental cabs for Outstation, local and
transfer services. These services come in three types: Round trip,
One way and Multi city travels. You can book for full day or half
day. Book cabs for airport transfers, leisurely holidays, wedding,
parties, business trips and any other kind of travel packages. Go
through our travel guides to know more about the destination. We
provide reliable and efficient service.
Our web page:
http://www.clearcarrental.com/
Call us: 0888 885 5220
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Wayanad
Wayanad region in
Kerala is known for aboriginal tribal culture, paddy fields and rich
forests. The region is not connected by rail network yet. It is
situated in the southern tip of the Deccan Plateau bordering
Karnataka and Tamil Nadu states. The region has
been a district in the state of Tamil Nadu. The entire region
comprising three Taluks has been chosen as one of the promising
tourist spots under the Responsible Tourism project in Kerala.
Kalpetta
is the district headquarters. You can approach this region via
Karnataka or Tamil Nadu. From Karnataka side, one can enter through
Mysore and Coorg. Kozhikode in Kerala is the nearest major
destination that is connected well by rail/road and airways. Kalpetta
is at a distance of about 75 km from Kozhikode. Sultan Bathery is
another main town in Wayanad having good connection.
Speciality
of this region is that it is tucked away in the wild forests of
Western Ghats. The remoteness and less movement of population have
created a distinct atmosphere in the entire region. You feel like
exploring more. Winding Ghat sections, thick jungles, wild life,
heritage spots and the local indigenous/un-disturbed tribal culture
are really rewarding. Preservation and conservation of the local
culture and environment has been the priority of Wayanad Tourism
Organization.
Chembra
Peak, Neelima View Point, Meenmutty Falls, Chethalaym Falls,
Brhamagiri Hills, Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries in
Muthunga and Tholpetty, Sulthan Bahthery Jain Temple, Edakkal Caves,
Wayanad Heritage Museum, Muniyara, Pazhassi Raja’s Tomb, Valliyoor
Temple, Papanashini, Tirunelli, Pookote Lake, Sentinal Rock Falls,
Sunrise Valley and phantom rock…huh! Innumerable spots you see.
Many
NGOs have joined hands in the preservation of local culture and have
been providing market to locally grown products. Medicinal herbs,
spices and handicrafts produced in this region are in great demand.
Accommodation:
Resorts
and home stays overlooking Jungles and plantations are very popular
among the tourists here. These home stays provide the experience of
traditional homes of Kerala. Jungle resorts are typical of this
region.
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