Best time to visit / climate:
The best time to visit Bali is from April to September as during this season the climate is good enough for travel, being sunny with moderate humidity.

Location on Google Maps:

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How to get there:
Bali is listed as “Denpasar” in airlines, which is the capital of the island. It takes few minutes (say 15mins) from Ngurah Rai Airport. Domestic flights in Indonesia are readily available. If taken sea route Cruises at stop offs work out from Java and Lombok and by car and bus from Java. For around, Air Bali helps getting helicopters on rent for joyrides and charters.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers):
1. You can find best deals and hotels in this website
2. www.Balivillas.com : Gives info on villas in Bali and conveyance around. For helicopter tours and private charters (3 to 6 passengers) please contact the Balivillas.com Service Center at 703-060 as soon as you arrive. Most full day tours by car (about 8 to 10 hours, min 2 persons) cost about US$45 to US$50 per person, half day tours US$30 to US$35. These prices include a multi-lingual guide and transport in an air-conditioned private car, all entrance fees, but no meals.
3. http://travel.nytimes.com/travel/guides/asia/indonesia/bali/restaurants.htm : website for the best of the restaurants at Bali.

Blogs / Sites about Easter Island (with small excerpts from these blogs):

1. Bali on Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bali )
Bali is an island in Indonesia lying between Java and Lombok. It has 33 provinces with Denpasa at its capital. It adheres to Balinese Hinduism, but remaining follows mostly Islam. It is famous for its arts and music and temples.

2. History of Bali: http://www.asianartmall.com/balihistory.htm
People in Bali emigrated from China in 2500BC. This culture had a different and effective form of irrigation and agriculture of rice. Though emigrated from china, there were many Hindu artifacts found and hence there was a tie in it of the religions of Buddhism and Hinduism.

3. Maps and A description along with photos www.bali.com

Photo / Image Gallery:
1. Google Images
2. Shows you albums of exotic locations in Bali and culture of Bali.
3. More photos of Bali

Sikkim is a land of peace and tranquility, an ideal destination for trekking and for seeking some rest from fast paced action of life. People can rejuvenate themselves by being much closer to nature, walking in green areas, among mountains and trees. The Night sky is clear with constellations being clearly visible as opposed to cities where the light hides everything. Spend some time in this cultural wonderland, get some insights into Buddhism, enjoy shopping in the local markets, and overall forget all your tensions and problems.
Small but beautiful. Sikkim is situated in the eastern Himalayas. The state is legendary for its peaceful nature and simplicity. Famous for Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, along with a view of the majestic Mount Everst. The mountain state of Sikkim offers tremendous variety of plant and wildlife besides a diverse ethnic mix of people with rich cultural tradition.
Sikkim is rich with a wide variety of flora and fauna, and can make nature watchers salivate at the prospect of finding nature’s marvels so easily accessible. About 450 varieties of orchids, over 600 species of butterflies, 500 species of birds along with red pandas, snow leopards and other animals can be seen in Sikkim. The largest collection can be seen at the Kanchenjunga National Park which covers an area of 850 square kilometers. As a result ornithology tourism is also gaining in prominence in Sikkim.

TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATION:
Airlines:
Nearest airport is Bagdogra (124 kms) in North Bengal which is about 4 hours drive from Gangtok. Sikkim Tourism operates daily five-seater helicopter service between Gangtok and Bagdogra connecting all civil flights. We also arrange Helicopter service for sight-seeing.

Railways:
The two nearest railway stations are Silliguri (114 kms) and New Jalpaiguri (125 kms).

Road:
Good condition roads connect Sikkim with Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Silliguri all the way to Kolkata. The Sikkim Nationalized Transport (SNT) plies regular bus service from Gangtok to all Major cities and towns in North Bengal and within the state. Booking facilities are available at Silliguri and Gangtok. Private buses and taxis are also available in plenty connecting Gangtok, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Silliguri.

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Places to visit in Sikkim :

- The Ridge Park : It stretches from the Main Palace Gate to the White Hall. A long idyllic stretch lined by the beautiful cherry trees that in season burst into flower in a profusion of delicate pink blossoms, this is the perpetual haunt of the jogging enthusiasts. The flamboyant marquee or ‘Hawa Ghar’ with ornate design holds sway over the Park where you can laze around or watch the local children romp exuberantly. The Flower Festival which is held year round is just a short walk down.
- Saramsa : It is the home to the Ipecac Garden is another popular tourist destination that is a mere14kms away from Gangtok. Home to many rare orchids and other flora, its shady lawns often play host to picnic parties.
- The Water Garden : A little further away at 16 kms is another alternative worth exploring. Cool off in the small and sheltered swimming pool there. Or else clamber over rocks in the vicinity and dip your feet in the river.
- Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology : It was Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal, the last monarch of Sikkim who realized a long cherished dream when he set up this Institute. HH The Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of the NIT which is done in typical Tibetan architectural style in Feb 1957. The following year Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurated the NIT.
- Do-drul Chorten : It is one of the most important Chortens or stupas of Sikkim that is exquisite as it is sacred. It was built in 1945 by Trulshik Rimpoche, a great teacher and interpreter of Buddhism.

NORTH SIKKIM :
- Dzongu : The territory of Dzongu in North Sikkim was set up in 1975. It is a land where pristine glacial streams thread their way through thick virgin forest. Countless waterfalls cascade down the steep cliff-sides and hot-springs bubble inside the hidden caves. The area is very remote, and is surrounded by sharply tilted verdant mountains that are stacked on top of each other at a forbidden angle. The elevation ranges from 500m to 6000m, and these extremes have nurtured an amazing diversity of plants and wildlife.

EAST SIKKIM :
- Rumtek Monastery : It is now the largest Buddhist monastery in East Sikkim and is the place where the monks perform sacred rituals and practices. Many sacred objects are housed within the complex, and one of the most magnificent is the Golden Stupa, which contains the precious relics of His Holiness the Sixteenth Karmapa.
- Pastanga : The village located in East Sikkim is very rich in culture and folklore; and is surrounded by hills covered with dense forest and cascading streams with rivulets cutting through the landscape and appealing orchids blooming on tree tops.
- Khedi – Located in East Sikkim, is renowned for its two sacred lakes, the Bhale Pokhari and the Pothi Pokhari where a festival is celebrated every year attracting hundreds of pilgrims from all over Sikkim.

WEST SIKKIM:
- Pelling : The city of Pelling located in West Sikkim is balancing on a ridge at an altitude of 2.040 m. One of Pelling’s main attractions is the Pemayangste Monastery. Known as the “Perfect sublime lotus” it is one of the oldest Monasteries in Sikkim being founded in 1705. The Sagachoeling (or Sang Gnak Choling) monastery is an even older monastery, dating back to 1697, and situated on a hilltop close to Pelling. Khecheopalri Lake, which is considered to be a holy lake by both the Buddhists and the Hindus, can be easily reached from Pelling.
- Darap : The picturesque village of Darap, located 8 kilometers from Pelling is a 20 minutes drive downhill passing through cardamom groves and terraced paddy fields.
- Yuksam : Yuksam is situated in the far western corner of Sikkim and nestled at the base of high forest-covered snow-capped mountains. Yuksam literally means ‘the meeting place of the three monks’.
- Uttaray : Tucked away in the lap of mother nature is the tranquil village of Uttaray, the gateway to the Singalila trek. This village provides visitors with many options to go for short hikes or longer treks in the vicinity or visit the Limboo village of Sopakha located an hour walk from Uttaray.
- Hee Bermiok : The newly developed destination of Hee Bermiok with widespread community participation is an ideal destination for visitors wanting to sample unique rural lifestyle of Sikkim. The strong Limboo culture of this area is worth appreciating.

SOUTH SIKKIM :
- Namchi : Sikkim’s South District, is the second largest populated districts of Sikkim. Its headquarter is in Namchi, meaning “High sky”. The area does credit to its name, nestled among the hills it gives panoramic views of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and the magic snow-capped mountains in the back.
- Kewzing : It is a typical Bhutia village in South Sikkim under the cover of the forest. At an altitude of 1200 m Kewzing provides its inhabitants with magnificent views of mountains including Mt. Kabru. Best mountain views occur from mid September to mid December. The atmosphere in the village is very serene and peaceful as the local people are very friendly and hospitable.

TREKS IN SIKKIM :
Most of the mountain areas in Sikkim have a fragile ecosystem. This demands any trekkers to obtain special permit to trek. Trekking in Sikkim is conducted in an organized manner. Individuals cannot trek on their own.
* Darjeeling to Kanchenjunga Trek
* Darjeeling and Sikkim Trekking
* Off Beaten Treks
* Singalila Ridge & Goecha La Trek
* Sikkim and Kanchenjunga Trek(20d)
* Sikkim and Kanchenjunga Trek(23d)
* Varsey Trek
* Yuksom To Dzongri & The Goecha La

RIVER RAFTING IN SIKKIM :
Rafting in Sikkim is an adrenalin pumping exercise especially in the two snow fed rivers of Teesta and Rangit. During the monsoon season hundreds of small streams can be found all over Sikkim. The two trails that are possible amongst rafters are :
* On River Teesta: Chungthang – Dikchu – Singtam – Melli
* On River Rangit: Legship – Jorethang – Melli

http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=7200244138493866871

Where to stay in Sikkim ?
- Heritage Hotels
* Norkhill Heritage Hotel, Paljor Stadium Road, Gangtok
* Himalayan Heights Hotel, Palzor Stadium Road, Gangtok
- Luxury Hotels
* Tibet Hotel (3 Star), Paljor Stadium Road
* Chumbi Residency, Tibet Road
* Tashi Delek Hotel (4 Star), Gangtok
* Hidden Forest Retreat, Lower Sichey Busty
- Deluxe Hotel
* Tashi Gang Resort, Yangtey near Peling, West Sikkim
* The Bliss Resort, Biksthang, Mangalbarey, West Sikkim
* Hotel Golden Pagoda, M.G.Marg
* Golden Heights, M.G.Marg
* Hotel Tashi Tagay, Tadong, Gangtok
* Hotel Bayul, M.G.Marg
* Hungry Jack, National Highway – 31 A
* Hotel Mount Simvo Tadong, Gangtok
* Middle Sichey, Gangtok
* Tashi Ghang Hotel, Yuksom

All good things in life come in small packets and Gangtok is a good illustration. Be it the rich flora, the beautiful people, or the serene Buddhist monasteries, this small town, occupies an important position in the itinerary of tourists in search of tranquility from the humdrum of modern life. The eastern state of Sikkim lies couched between the borders of Nepal and Bhutan. Gangtok became the capital of the state in the 19th century and lies to the south of the district of East Sikkim. It is a hilly town and spreads down the western side of a long ridge flanking the Ranipul River.

Location of Gangtok on Google Maps:

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Tourist Maps of Gangtok and Sikkim (link,
Gangtok In and Around Map (link)

An air of enchantment hangs over the city, indeed the whole valley; the mysticism, the stupas, the monasteries reach out as soon as one has crossed the border. While across the hills and valleys comes the sounding of the long trumpets by robed lamas.

Places to Visit :
1. Do Drul Chorten : It is regarded as the most important ’stupa’ of Sikkim. This stupa also has sacred gold-topped shikhara with 108 prayer wheels.
2. ENCHEY MONASTERY : The Enchey monastery literally means the solitary temple. This place especially attracts attention during the religious dances or ’Chaam’ performed in January.
3. Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology : The institute promotes research on Mahayana Buddhism.
4. Pemayangtse Monastery : This Monastery is located at the hill top and gives a wonderful view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills of the region.
5. Government Institute Of Cottage Industries : t was established with the purpose of promoting the manufacture and sale of local handicrafts. Thankas (also spelt as Thangkas), hand carved wooden tables – known as Choksees and exquisitely woven woolen carpets.
6. Lachung : This is the area inhabited by the Lachungpas, a hardy mountain people who consider themselves quite different from the Bhutias and the Tibetans. The lush green, terraced hillsides, even in winter, were a testimony to the grit and determination of these people.
7. Phurchachu Reshi Hot Springs : These springs are considered holy as one of the four holy caves is located here. This holy cave is called the “Kadosangphu” or ‘Cave of the occult fairies’ and lies on the south of the four cardinal points.
8. Orchid Sanctuary : The sanctuary is famous for its rare and extensive collection of orchids.
9. Namgyal Institute : Namgyal Institute was built in the year 1958 to promote research in Mahayan Buddhism and Tibetan language and traditions.
10. Tsuk La Khang : A depository of a large collection of scriptures, this is the principal place of worship and assembly for the local Buddhists. The Tsuk la Khang is also characterised by the beautiful and impressive building with mural covered interior, lavishly decorated altars or images of Buddha, bodhisattvas and Tantric deities and the many fine works of woodcarving.

Excursions from Gangtok :
1. Kabi Longstok : 25-km from Gangtok, here is a spot amidst tall trees, where the treaty of brotherhood between, the Lepcha Chieftan – Tetong Tek and the Tibetan chief Khye Bhumsa was signed.
2. Changu Lake : 35-km from Gangtok.
3. Chungthang : 95-km from Gangtok.
4. Ganesh Tok : 7-km from Gangtok.
5. Hanuman Tok : 11-km from Gangtok.
6. Menmecho Lake : 20-km from Gangtok.
7. Phoodong Monastery : 40-km from Gangtok.
8. Tashi View Point : 8-km from Gangtok.
9. The Ipecac Garden : 14-km from Gangtok,
10.Yumthang : 149-km from Gangtok.
11.Yumthang Hot Springs : 135-km from Gangtok.
12.Nathula : It is a mountain pass situated about 56 km from Gangtok at an altitude of about 14,200 ft and is covered with rich varieties of alpine flora and fauna.

Places To Stay In Gangtok
1. Heritage Hotels
* Norkhill Heritage Hotel, Paljor Stadium Road
* Himalayan Heights Hotel, Palzor Stadium Road
2. Luxury Hotels
* Royal Plaza Hotel
* Hotel Tashi Delek (4 Star), Mahatma Gandhi Marg
* Nor-Khill Hotel (4 Star), Paljor Stadium Road
* Hotel Dew Pond (3 Star), P.S. Road
* Hotel Central (3 Star), 31A, National Highway
* The Oriental (3 Star), Mahatma Gandhi Marg
3. Deluxe Hotels
* Hotel Rigwa, M.G. Marg
* Orange Village
* Sidlon Residency
* Hotel Sonam Palgey
* Shambhala Mountain Resort
* New Castle
* Chumbi Residency
* Hotel Rendezvous

How to reach there ?
- Nearest Airport Bagdogra Airport (16km)
- Nearest Train Stations New Jalpaiguri (124 km)
- Main Road Highways NH 31A

External articles:

1. Long journey – section of Gangtok (link): Bike journey with photos of difficulties
2. Sikkim’s Gangtok: The Place where great journeys begin (link)

Sikkim is bounded by Bhutan to its east, Nepal to its West and China to its north. The southern boundary is shared with the state of West Bengal. The topography of Sikkim is such that the entire state is covered with beautiful hills and mountains. Not just a tourism destination, it is also a paradise for naturalist and environmentalists owing to its wealth of flora and fauna. There have been many expeditions related to zoological and botanical research leading to the discovery of a number of plants and animals. It is also the spiritual center for Buddhists all over the world and has around 250 monasteries, each having its own peculiar history and traditions.

3. Hotels in Darjeeling and Gangtok (link)
4. Forum post on trip to Darjeeling (link1, link2, link3)
5. Gaga about Gangtok (link)

Our first stop was at the Rumtek Monastery. The Monastery consists of the main shrine-temple, a retreat centre, a monastic college (Shedra), a nuns’ hostel, some stupas, a protector’s shrine, and some other establishments for the community. I was awed by the vibrant basic colors of the walls, festoons, and chandeliers in the monastery.

6. adventures of mak & mainu (link): Many photos of Gangtok as well

So there we were finally, the long awaited Gangtok. Saw the sikkimese people with their chic clothes and finest shoes, supposed to be brought in from china. We checked-in to Sonam Palgey hotel, touted to be one of the best in the area, located right under the Gangtok ropeway. After a warm shower and some rest we went out to explore the area. Started with the Rumptek Monastery, seeing the monks in their maroon robes reminded me of those Dalai Lama movies, the peaceful serenity of the monastery was capturing.

7. Gangtok Hill Station (link)

Gangtok in Sikkim is well connected by roads, rail and air transport. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra in West Bengal. There are helicopter services from Bagdogra to Sikkim. The nearest railhead is at New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal, which is connected by regular trains from different cities in India. One can easily reach Gangtok by road from the airport and the railway station. The city is connected with West Bengal by all weather roads which connect Siliguri and Kalimpong in West Bengal with Sikkim.

8. Love to travel (link)

The nearest train station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri which has direct connections to New Delhi, Kolkata, and other major cities in India. It is a 10-12 hour journey from Kolkata. From New Jalpaiguri, you can either hire a taxi from the station itself or take an auto-rickshaw to the Siliguri bus stand. From there, you have the option of traveling to Gangtok by state bus, roughly a 5-6 hour journey.

9. Alistair D’Souza (link)

Gangtok is 140 km from Bagdogra Airport. You can take a vehicle from the airport to gangtok. No need of booking anything in advance.

10. Travelling India (link)
11. One step closer to Freedom (link)

The road to Gangtok was really breathtaking. Its surely a must try. But today, it had a lot of traffic snarls with the mud and rocks still being cleared with bulldozers. In one place, we were held up for almost an hour. Maybe there was a landslide here last night, I wondered. But the delay there, gave me a unique oppurtunity to take photos of the Kanchenjunga peak which was slowly coming out of the clouds. Let me tell you one thing. The first time you see a mountain peak for real is very special. I have seen many photos of this peak before. But only when you stand here, you get to see the relative size of the peak with everything else around you. That, my friend, you can’t get in a photo. For people like me from the plains, its truly a breathtaking experience to see a mountain peak.

12. Travel & Work, Work & Travel (link). Some great photos of Gangtok.

To my amazement, and utter joy, she stayed for a bit. And then she also rubbed up against the fence and I got a chance to touch the soft, soft fur. That touch seemed to have lasted, because for the next minute or so she pushed into the fence, and I dug my fingers further into her fur. Behind her ear, on her shoulder blades, neck, even (and I admit my foolishness in going this far) but was able to pet her underbelly a bit.

13. Destination Gangtok (link)

The tourist attractions in Gangtok include museums, monasteries and quaint surroundings. The Deer Park is a must-see tourist spot commanding a breathtaking view of the valleys neighboring the city of Gangtok against the backdrop of the elegant Mt. Kanchenjunga. The park is home the rare red panda and the Himalayan Bear. Dul Dul Chortena also features among the popular tourist attractions in Gangtok that was built under the direction of the late most respected Rimpoche and is a place of worship for the Tibetan Buddhists.

14. Discover India (link)

The inhabitants of Gangtok are chiefly dependent on tourism, which is the most important occupation for the residents. A number of superior international standard hotels have turn up in the recent years to cater the escalating demand of tourists. All these hotels are extravagantly built and decorated and offer service which is a combination of conventional hospitality along with modern professionalism.

15. Guide to Gangtok (link)

The name Gangtok is derived from the Tibetan word for ‘hillside,’ and the city currently has a population of around 80,000 – a mixture of indigenous Sikkimese and people of Lepcha,Bhutia Nepalese and Tibetan ancestry along with people from across India settled and engaged in trade and business activities.

16. Adrian Cycling across Sikkim (link)

I’m now in Gangtok, which seems a very pleasant place so far. It’s got a wide pedestrianised main street with no litter. This is a first for me in India (outside of shopping malls) and it’s very nice. I’m not sure how they enforce it – I suspect large fines and men with sticks. Sikkim is noticeably quite wealthy, which I believe is partly because the Indian government put lots of money into their economy to lure them away from any loyalty to China.

Photos of Gangtok:

1. Gangtok city view on rope way (link)
2. Gangtok picture gallery at India Travelinfo (link)
3. Photos of Gangtok on Slideroll (link)
4. Many photos of Gangtok at SikkimInfo (link)
5. Photos of Gangtok at oktatabyebye.com (link)
6. Gangtok Photo Collection (link)
7. Photos of Gangtok on Flickr (link)

Videos detailing different experiences in Gangtok:

Surviving in Gangtok in Rs 3,000

Gangtok town

How to Get Lost Two backpackers: part 2 of 7: India (Sikkim, Gangtok, Kolkata)

Gangtok – Sikkim – India

Gangtok: A Beautiful Memory

Gangtok calling: This video was taken en route to gangtok when i was about to reach Teesta.

Gangtok: The land of Mystic Splendor

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hf9lYFp1r6A

Beautiful Snow Fall in Gangtok (26.05.2009)

Gangtok (Sikkim) Road Trip

Gangtok Videos, Sikkim, India

Helicopter ride from Bagdogra to Gangtok: Beautiful experience flying over the Himalayas

See towering mountains reach up to a clear blue sky, and seem to touch it. Hear the rhythmic chant of Buddhist monks in an ancient monastery where time stands still, in a land with a mix of religions living peacefully with each other. See the rushing waters of an icy river, the Indus (Sindhu) surge down from a glacial height. This is all part of what Ladakh (the Land of Passes and the Roof of the World) awaits you. From age-old Buddhist monasteries to exciting adventure tours, Leh (the capital of Ladakh) has a lot to offer. Explore a Gompa, go mountaineering in the Himalayas with sheer slopes and rocky cliffs, camp on the Ladakh plateau, trek on treacherous and breathtaking routes and see rare mountain goats ascend the slopes. Tour a land that will amaze you with its stark beauty and delight you with the warmth of the Ladakhi people.
Leh has a cold, arid climate with long, harsh winters from October to early March, with minimum temperatures well below freezing for most of the winter. The city gets occasional snowfall during winter. The weather in the remaining months is generally fine, and leads to a tourist season that peaks between July and September.

Leh (capital of Ladakh) on Google Maps:

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Travellers flock to Ladakh from all corners of the globe, and Ladakh is becoming an adventure for a large number of Indians as well. This trans-Himalayan district of Jammu and Kashmir has now become a favourite of both adventure freaks and culture enthusiasts, and a good place to consider going to when you want to avoid those commercial tourist locations.
Leh, the capital of Ladakh is a fascinating destination. Monasteries that seem from the ages, quaint lanes, colorful markets, friendly people, and stunning views of the Himalayas make Leh an exotic destination. Leh is where your adventure in Ladakh begins. You can go trekking through the mountainous terrain of Ladakh, or even enjoy a game of polo in a high altitude arena or watch a local contest of archery between local residents. Mountaineering, white water rafting and wildlife tours are other adventurous attractions of Leh.
Leh is is bounded by Pakistan occupied Kashmir in the West, China in the north and eastern part, and Lahul Spiti of Himachal Pradesh in South East.

Major tourist attractions

• Leh Palace: This is a building built to reflect the grand traditions of Tibetan architecture, and which is said to have inspired the more famous Potala palace in Lhasa (Tibet), built half a century later. The palace was built long back, in the 17th century and had nine storeys with different floors for the royals and for those who server them, but it is now dilapidated and deserted (It was the home of the royal family until they were exiled to Stok in the 1830s). Within the palace are Buddhist wall paintings, centuries old ‘tankas’ or painted scrolls and other artefacts. Above the palace, at the top of the Namgyal hill, is the Victory Tower, built to commemorate Ladakh’s victory over the Balti Kashmir armies in the early 16th century.
• Leh Monastery and Gompa: The central area of Ladakh has the greatest concentration of major Buddhist monasteries or gompas, incredibly beautiful and a must see. Of the twelve situated on or near the Indus, the oldest monastery is that of Lamayuru, which is believed to have been a sacred site for the pre-Buddhist religion known as Bon. The monasteries of Phiyang, Hemis and Chemrey were all founded under the direct patronage of members of the ruling Namgyal dynasty. Phyang represents an act of penance by the 16th century King Tashi Namgyal for the violence and treachery by which he reached the throne.
• Spituk Monastery – The Gompa is famous for a wonderful view of the commanding river, the Indus. Further, the gompa stands on the top of a hillock, 8 Kms. from Leh. Many icons of Buddha and five thankas are found in 15th century monastery. There is also a collection of ancient masks, antique arms, and an awe inspiring image of Mahakal.
• Shanti Stupa: Shanti Stupa is a fairly recent monument, build with the support of the Japanese Government, and build by a Japanese who wanted to spread Buddhism around the world. The Shanti Stupa is located at Changspa, on the hilltop, and was inaugurated by Dalai Lama in 1985. Its state of the art work attracts a lot of tourists to Ladakh and is spectacular to watch. The stupa is connected by a ‘motorable’ road and a steep flight of stairs. The view from the top is great, and you can stop for a snack in the tea shop, and enjoy the panoramic view of the chain of mountains and the peaceful little village of Changspa (having typical Ladakhi houses built along a gushing stream), and the towering Namgyal Tsemo in the distance.
• Shey Gompa: 15 Kms upstream from Leh, a 7.5 metre high copper statue of Buddha, plated with gold, and the largest of its kind, is installed in the palace.
• Soma Gonpa (Jokhang): The Ladakh Buddhist Association in 1957 built the small Gonpa opposite to SBI, in the main bazaar, which is open throughout the day for visitors. The Gonpa contains a statue of Joyo Rinpochey (crowned Buddha).
• Stok Palace Museum: 17 km from Leh town, this museum exhibits precious stones, thangkas, coins, royal crowns and dresses and prayer instruments.
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa – The Namgyal Tsemo Gompa was built in 1430 by King Tashi Namgyal on Namgyal Tsemo peak overlooking the town. The monastery contains a three-story high solid gold idol of Maitrieya Buddha (future Buddha also called laughing buddha) and a one-storied statue of Avaloketesvara and Manjushri along with ancient manuscripts and frescoes. The fort above this gompa is ruined, but the views of Leh from here are breathtakingly beautiful. The associated temples here remain intact, but they are kept locked except during the morning and evening hours when a monk toils up the hills from Sankar Gompa to attend to the butter – lamps in front of the images.
• Leh Mosque – Apart from all the Buddhist structures, the striking green and white Leh Mosque, an exquisite work of Turko-Iranian architecture, stand in the Main Bazaar of Leh. This historical mosque was built in 1666-67 A.D. consequent to an agreement between the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and then ruler of Ladakh, Deldan Namgyal.
• The Nubra Valley – The Nubra valley gets clad in endless bushes of yellow and pink wild roses. However, once the rose season is over, a carpet of wild lavender lies gently on it. Nubra is also a relatively warmer valley in Ladakh making it perfect for crops and fruits to grow. Diskit Village located near Khalsar, dotted with apricot plantations is one of the larger village of the Nubra valley. The road between Diskit and the quaint little Hunder Village winds through a gorgeous stretch of sand dunes. A quiet and pleasant evening can be spent amidst nature with snowcapped peaks in the background
• Pangong Lake – This lake is situated at a elevation of 14,000ft. In the Eastern sector of Ladakh, at a distance of 154km. from Leh across Changla pass (17,000ft.). This lake is one of the largest and most beautiful natural brakish lakes in the country. It is located 1/3rd in India, and 2/3rd in China, and one needs a permit to visit the Lake. The trip to the lake is half the pleasure of the lake itself.

Things to do:

Trekking : Leh is a trekker’s paradise. The treks from Spituk to the Markha valley and Lamayuru gompa to Chiling village alongside the Zanskar River are the most popular treks in the region. Another trek route is from Likir to Temisgam. Treks are open from the June end upto mid October. The passes for trekking are as high as 5,000 m in altitude, so you need to attempt these only if you are fit, and have experience. Many trekking agencies in Leh offer trek packages with a guide, packhorses, food and supplies.

Polo : Polo is also very popular in Leh. Apart from a well-maintained polo ground, regular matches and competitions are organised during the Ladakh festival.

River Rafting : One might also take fun of rafting in the Zanskar River in the month of July to September.

Places to stay:

Mehek Guest House
Green Land, Ladakh Hotel
Khangri Hotel, Ladakh
Laser Mo Hotel
Hotel Lumbini
List of places to stay (link to post)
Chamba Camp
The Grand Dragon
Hotel Caravan Center
Hotel Cho Palace
Hotel Dragon
Hotel Gawaling International
Hotel Holiday Ladakh
Hotel Khanglachan
Hotel Mandala
Hotel Lotus
Hotel Namgyal Palace
Hotel Omasila
Hotel Royal Palace
Hotel Shambha-La (link)
Hotel Spic N Span
Hotel Yak Tail
Sangaylay Guest House
Hotel Singge Palace (link)

By Air: The airport is approximately 8 kms away from Leh.

By rail: Jammu is the closest among all with a distance of 620 Kms.

By road: Kashmir valley is the closest place to approach Leh. The approach road to Leh is either through (434 km) Srinagar-Kargil-Leh, or through (473 km) Manali-Keylong-Leh. Both roads are open only on a seasonal basis.

External articles / blogs:

1. Biking from Srinagar to Leh (link to article):

Early on the 10th June we started for Leh. After 8.5KM of uphill we took a 5KM deviation from the main road to visit the Likir monastery. The ride from Likir monastery till the main road was an easy downhill and later the road was relatively flat till Nimmu (our Lunch halt). After climbing up till the Magnetic Hill and facing some heavy wind which made even standing difficult we reached the Pattar Sahib Gurudwara. The road beyond the Gurudwara was a neatly paved downhill for more than 10KM. This stretch gave us an oppurtunity to touch a maximum speed of 77.7KMPH and soon we entered the busy Leh city!

2. Proposed drive to Leh on the 4th of July (link to article)
3. Drive from Srinagar to Leh with some great photos (link to article)
4. Complete guide to Leh-Manali Road (link to article)

It is the difficulty involved in traversing the road that attracts travelers to make the journey from Manali to Leh by road. Nowhere else in India do you get to drive hundreds of kilometers without seeing a single permanent habitation. The road runs above ten thousand feet for almost entire journey, and the highest point on the road is above 18,000 feet. The landscapes are unparalleled. The superb greenery on the way out of Manali will be the last stretch of abundant vegetation that you encounter until the day you return from Ladakh

5. Ice hockey in Leh (link to article)

The famous Karzoo Ice Hockey Rink has become the most sought after destination in Leh during winters for the localites as well as tourists having a passion for Ice Hockey. It is the highest Ice Hockey rink in the country, which is situated at an altitude of 3483 meters above sea level. 2009 has been an year of achievement for the local players from Ladakh, where they got an opportunity to represent their county in International Ice Hockey Federation Challenge Cup of Asia held at Abu Dhabi.

6. Khardung La – World’s Highest Motorable Road (link to article)

Khardung La (la means pass in Tibetan) (elevation 5359 m) is a high mountain pass located in the Ladakh region, Jammu and Kashmir, India. The local pronunciation is “Khardong La” or “Khardzong La,” but, as with most names in Ladakh, the romanised spelling varies. It is the highest motorable road in the world as signs put up by the Border Roads Organization proudly proclaim. The views from this pass are no doubt breathtaking – with the Ladakh range to the south and Karakoram to the north. And snow capped peaks at almost touching distance all around. The pass experiences up to 10 feet of snow in winters, with temperatures dropping to 40 degrees Celsius below zero. Even though temperatures in summers average 20 degrees Celsius, the weather can turn for the worse suddenly.

7. Not walking to Leh (link to article):

We traveled to Leh, in northern Kashmir, a few years ago. Good sample-the-local-culture tourists that we are, we traveled on crowded buses, hitchhiked on trucks, and once, memorably, on a fully loaded gasoline tanker truck driven by a dozing driver. One thing we did not try to do much was hike.

8. Whether safe to plan to drive in October on the highways (link to forum post)

I’m looking at doing the trip from manali to leh. Trying to coordinate the trip with some friends overseas and the only time that works for all of us would be early – mid october. Also we’d only have 12 days from arriving in delhi to leaving delhi. So first of all how trafficable is the route at this time of year – I’ve heard it officially closes in september. We would be self supported on mountainbikes so not opposed to a bit of snow and the like but don’t want to do anything stupid. Also what would we find in the way of tent villages and permanent villages along the way. As for the 12 days (probably 10 by the time you bus out to manali and fly back from leh) is it realistic in this time. I don’t expect or want this to be an easy ride but I don’t want to bite off more then I can chew.

9. Trip to Leh (link to article)

For the spiritually inclined, the monasteries of Thiksey, Hemios, Spitup, and Lamayuru provide perfect refuge. Most monasteries also have small guest houses where visitors may stay and participate in Buddhist rituals with the resident monks. These monasteries offer great insight into the culture of Leh – with their museums holding great treasures of tourist interest. Religion plays an important part in Leh’s culture and it is advisable to listen carefully to your guide so as to not disrespect any religious sentiments.

10. Leh and Ladakh (link to article)
11. Long trip covering Leh and Amarnath (link to forum post)
12. Ketchup with Aubs (link to article)

The capital city of Leh offers a rare insight into what Tibet was like before the Chinese invaded the country. It also boasts the highest golf course in the world at the Indian army base (at about 3,200m). Permission can be sort to play a round. Similar to the Gulf, you carry a piece of artificial turf around and aim for the “greens”, which are actually brown – a mix of oil and sand which offers a seriously challenging putting surface.

13. Manali-Leh highway (link to article):

From Manali, a pretty village in the green foothills of the Himalayas, the journey takes two days and ends up 500kms north in Leh, Ladakh’s capital – a staggering 3505m above sea level. It’s certainly an experience worth having, but the combination of Indian driving and a disconcerting lack of barriers on the windy mountain roads makes for a nail-biting trip. Rather alarmingly, our driver was suffering with altitude sickness and kept momentarily blacking out, reminding me to ‘grab the wheel’ if he fainted. On the plus side, he did own the full Bob Marley collection which blared most of the way, so, you know, swings and roundabouts.

14. Adventure on the Leh-Manali highway (link to article):

arlier this week I took a 20-hour jeep ride from Leh to Manali. Their were 10 people (I was the only non-Indian) in a jeep that was made for 7, so it was uncomfortable. Despite, the discomcomfort, or perhaps because of it, it was a ride I will never forgot. The scenery was stunning, and the road was terrifying. The road was rarely more then 1 lane wide and was on the edge of a mountain atleast 75% of the time.

15. manali-Leh highway (link to article)

The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. The road is only open between June and October, and by this time the landscape is a vast expanse of barren, snow-capped mountainous and deep canyons with rivers running through it. There’s the odd house or tiny settlement along the way, but the most people you’ll see are at the numerous rest-stops where drinks and snacks are sold. There are no toilets though – you’ll have to bare your bum at the side of the road – not so bad higher up where you can hide behind a mound of snow, but pretty embarrassing in the open, barren expanses lower down.

16. Wonderful post on travel through India (with Leh at the lower section) (link to article):

I visited Thiksey Monastery (or Gompa) first, leaving at sunrise and watching the incredible changes of light on the harsh, bare, and beautiful mountains. Thiksey sprawls down a mountainside, and has the usual monastery accoutrements of small shrines, huge Buddhas, and many steps. What it did not have many of, that day, was monks, as they were mostly visiting in the village for a funeral. It was fascinating to wander around, though, and is very aesthetically pleasing.
The monasteries have incredible artwork, but what I loved best about this area is the flowers. The garden at my guesthouse is a small treasure, and everywhere at the “gompas” (monasteries) and along the roadsides in the valleys there are flowers of all shapes and sizes, most noticeably vivid hollyhocks. They have such a short season that everything seems to grow with abandon.

Photos of Leh / Ladakh:

1. Photos from Srinagar to Leh (link to article)

2. Photos of Leh-Manali highway (link to photos)
3. Beautiful photos of Leh (link to post)
4. Photos at thisismyindia.com (link)
5. Official site (link)
6. Leh Photo Gallery at world66.com (link)
7. Photo Gallery at pbase.com (link)
8. Blog + Photo Gallery (link)

* Location: Western Region Of Tibet, Tibetan Himalayas
* Duration: 11-18 Days
* Highest Altitude: 6,714m
* Best Time To Visit: June To September
* Temperature: June to September 15-20 degree Celsius. Morning and evening can be chilly between minus 2 to 0 degree Celsius.

A huge number of people would have heard of Mt. Kailash, but a very small fraction of them would have visited the place. So, what is this place ? Isolated for centuries behind the Himalayas in Tibet is a mysterious and mythical mountain. Mount Kailash is 6714m (22,028ft) high. It is a mountain that captures the imagination and breathes sheer excitement into the soul. Kailash has for more than a thousand years been a central pilgrimage site for some of the world’s major religions. It is sacred to 4 religions – Hindus, Buddhists, Bonpo and Jains from India.

For Hinduism, Mount Kailash is one of the most sacred spots of world. Shiva devotees have been going to the Kailsah Mansarovar Yatra since times unknown. Shiva Bhakts go to the holy yatra for attaining bliss, for being at peace with themselves. Devotees here seek harmony in and around themselves. The holy shrines bestows the pilgrims with harmony, peace, heath and wealth. People who return from the pilgrimage are known to feel good with themselves. Tibetans leave any kind of relic here to leave back their egos and pretences.
The mountain name in Tibetan is, “Gang Rinpoche” which is translated to mean, “Supreme Mountain.” Traditional Buddhist cosmology connects Mt. Kailash with Mt. Meru, the great mythological mountain that forms the axis of this world system. The power of this strange, domed peak has gripped the imagination of the people of Nepal, India and Tibet for thousands of years, as well as the imagination of people from all over the world are willing to see it in reality. It is one of the centers of spirituality, and the tough journey only adds to the romance of the place.
Geographic information: The four great rivers of the Indian sub-continent: Karnali (which feeds into the Ganges), Indus, Sutlej and Brahmaputra all originate from Mount Kailash, and thus the region is very important ecologically. The average altitude of the region is 4,700 meters above sea level. To the west of Mount Kailash is the Karakorum range, to the north is the Kunlun range, to the east is Magyal Pomra range and to the south is the Himalayan range.
There have been no recorded attempts to climb Mount Kailash for the past many hundred years; it is considered off limits to climbers in deference to Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. It is the most significant peak in the world that has not seen any known climbing attempts. There is a belief that the First Guru of the Sikh religion, Guru Nanak, climbed the peak way back in history, apparently to have discussions with yogis over there.
Every year, thousands make a pilgrimage to Kailash, following a tradition going back thousands of years. Pilgrims of several religions believe that circumambulating Mount Kailash on foot is a holy ritual that will bring good fortune, and don’t mind the ardous physical labor that this involved. This circumambulation is made in a clockwise direction by Hindus and Buddhists. Followers of the Jain and Bönpo religions circumambulate the mountain in a counterclockwise direction. The path around Mount Kailash is 52 km (32 mi) long and takes more than a day.
The other important place to visit in the region is Lake Mansarovar, also sacred to Hindus. Manasarovar is located at a height of 4580m. The circumference of Mansarovar is 88-km, its depth is 90m and total area is 320-sq-kms. The lake freezes in the winters and melts only in spring. It looks unbelievably fascinating on moonlit nights when an ethereal ambience pervades the atmosphere.
The circumference of Rakshas Tal, also known as “Ravan Kund”, is 122-km. A 6-km long natural channel – “Gangachhu” – connects Manas with Rakshas Tal. Where ritual bath will deliver a pilgrim to Brahma’s paradise is believed to bring about salvation (Moksha) and drink of its water relinquishes the sins of a hundred lifetimes.

Getting there from India:
Kailash Mansarovar is connected to almost all the major passes of Uttrakhand. Indians were not allowed to visit Kailash Mansarovar for nearly two decades because of the Indo-chinese border dispute from 1959 to 1980. However, since 1981, tours have been happening on a regular basis. Even though only a limited number of people are allowed to visit yet every Shiva devotee wants to go for a holy pilgrimage of Kailash.
Most of the visitors take a dip in the Mansarovar lake. The Mansarovar lake is 18 miles from the Mount Kailash. Taking a dip or soaking the head in the holy water provides spiritual benefits; however only the brave could take a dip in the icy water.

Visa and Documentation: All foreign nationals including Indians require a VISA to enter Tibet. One must be in possession of a passport valid for another six months to obtain Chinese VISA.

Accommodation: The shrine is in the most distant part of world. You need to assume that facilities are limited, with the tour operator making tent based arrangements to stay.

Clothing: Tibet is a dry cold country where weather may change unexpectedly at any time. Plan your clothing in a way that you can wear layers of clothes. Depending upon the season, the pilgrims should bring their wardrobe.

Now, the journey has become more comfortable, as more options are available to doing the trip in relative comfort in Japanese 4-wheel drive Land cruisers. This enables devout who were not physically fit to do the Yatra as it required (and still does) peak physical conditioning. But on the regulars 11- to 16- days tour by overland and on 7 days tour by helicopter, trekking need has reduced, with being required only during the 3 day Kailash parikrama when one has to cross the 19,500 ft high Dolma Pass.
However yaks can be hired locally on this parikrama and pilgrims need not trek the entire distance. One should also be prepared to walk through landslide zones in Nepal on the first and last day (specially during the June-Sept trips).

By Overland: Traveling by overland from Kathmandu in Nepal to Mt. Kailash, which lies in the Southwestern part of Tibet, is an incredible 13-day journey, an epic pilgrimage that is expeditionary in nature. This is for those who want to experience the majestic beauty of Kailash but is limited by time. The trip begins by drive from Kathmandu to the Tibetan border at Zhangmu. After the stay in Zhangmu, drive is done to the Lake Manasarovar across widely spread open spaces of the Tibetan Plateau known as ‘roof of the world’. It is undoubtedly the toughest and most rewarding of all such journeys known to man. Rivers and streams are crossed and re-crossed, treacherous passes are climbed and conquered. The numbing cold at night, the fierce sun during the day, the bitter winds, the looming solitude and the everlasting dust are constant companions.

By Helicopter: The trip begins by airways from Kathmandu to Nepalganj and continues to Simikot. After Simikot, charter helicopter flight to Hilsa and drive to the Lake Manasarovar across widely spread open spaces of the Tibetan Plateau. Then the most attractive part of the trip to Mt. Kailash and follow the pathway across huge dry plains for Nepalese border lies to the south. Finally, we take the trip back to Kathmandu. This is truly the trip of a lifetime with stunning scenery and cultural highlights.

External articles:
1. Dave’s landslide blog, with a potential landslide description (link)

This year the pilgrimage is going to have an additional challenge. I posted back in February about the Chautuldhar landslide in northern India, which was causing major problems in the close area of Tawaghat in Dharchula. The landslide is not quite where I thought it was back then – it now looks as if it is on the section of slope shown on the Google Earth perspective view below

2. Tours to Mt. Kailash from Tibet (link)

Mt. Kailash (6714 m) – also known as Tise, Kailasa or Kang Rinpoche (Jewel of the Snows) has since time immemorial been celebrated in many eastern cosmologies as Mt. Meru, the axis-mundi. As the center of the physical and metaphysical universe, Mt. Meru (Kailash) is sacred to the Hindus, the Buddhists, the Jains, and the Bonpos. For the Hindus, the mountain represents the seat of Shiva. For the Buddhists, a terrestrial projection of the cosmic mandala of the Dyani Buddhas and Boddhisatvas .… The Wheel of Life.

3. Forum post on LonelyPlant (link)

The Kailash kora, which crosses an astonishing pass linking two beautiful river valleys, and passes three fine small gonpas, each sited with scenic views. Lake Manasarovar is well worth a drive around, with stays at Purang down on the Nepal border – the road passes beneath Ghurla Mandata, a couple of football fields short of 8,000m. Chui and Truro gonpas are otherworldly. Depending on time/money, most visit the Guge, on which I cannot comment, except to say I do want to see the high road down there with a sweeping view of the western Himal.

4. Niravana travel deals (link)

Passport is must if you want to be the part of the most holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
16 Days Yatra by Land Cruiser
11 Days Yatra by Helicopter

5. Post on askblogster.com (link)

This holy mountain is situated in remote place of Tibetan Himalayas. As Chinese army entered into Tibet in 1950 and created political and border disturbance, pilgrims stopped going there from 1959 to 1980. After that very limited Indian pilgrims were given permission to go there and obviously under supervision of Chinese army and Indian government. But nowadays many people are going there. It’s a very expensive tour. And many travel agencies provide lucrative travel package for Kailash.

6. Yatra to Kailash Mansarovar (link)

For the Hindus Mount Kailash is the earthly manifestation of Mt. Meru, their spiritual centre of the universe, described as a fanatastic world pillar 84,000 miles high, around which all else revolves, its roots in the lowest hell and its summit kissing the heavens. On the top lives their most revered God, Shiva, and his consort Parvati.

7. Trip to Mount Kaliash, showing it can be tough (link)

I indoors at Mt Kalish at dusk, which in summertime comes about 10pm; Mt Kailash was bathed in crimson-red hues, a spectacular site, however one shortly obscured by drizzly shower clouds. Exhausted, I curved in for the night at an adjacent yurt on the grassy banks of Damding Donkhang and presently after I set my leader on the filthy pillows, I floor asleep.
I’d been cautioned by several experienced pilgrims that the moment half of the Mt Kailash kora was the most fractious. And, trusty enough, as shortly as I agreed Dirapuk monastery and crossed the Lha-Chu tributary the following morning, the direction became increasingly treacherous. The steep means eventually weak out – as did the air – and then disappeared all together among the large boulders spread about the Drolma-Chu valley.

8. Description of journey to Mt. Kailash over 18 days including the itinerary (link)

The trip begins in Nepal’s capital city-Kathmandu where we obtain China/Tibet visa and also take chance to visit its medieval temples, palaces and monasteries. We will set out overland by 4 WD jeeps with well supplied Nepali crews. In most places, we will be camping, meals being cooked by our Nepali crews. After 4 days circuit trek, retrace drive to Kathmandu or extend to visit Lhasa.

9. 11 day trek to Mt. Kailash (link)
10. Kailash Parvat (link)

The very fact one thought of proceeding to Kailash and Manasarovar is a call from within. Thousands of Sages, ordinary mortals, philosophers and even the Gods had submerged in blissful trance at the very Bight of this divine grandeur. It is the MERU, SUMERU, SUSHUMNA, HEMADRI (golden mountain), RATNASANU (jewel peak), KARNIKACHALA (lotus mount), AMARADRI, DEVA PARVATHA (summit of gods), GANA PARVATHA, RAJATADRI (silver mountain). It was the SWAYAMBU – the self-created one. Kailasa and Manasarovar are as old as the creation. Everything emanates from there are finally return there. It is the centre of creation and the Universe.

11. Circling Kailash and Mansarovar (link)

Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar are the only two places in the whole of Tibet that were visited by Lord Buddha, accompanied by five hundred Arhats. During the turning of the Three Wheels of the Dharma, Buddha Shakyamuni extensively explained the merits of building images. So Indra (the king of gods) offered precious articles of the gods, Ananda (the king of Serpents or Nagas) offered precious articles of the Nagas and Bimbisara (the king of Magadh) offered gold and silver, etc. to the Buddha and requested him to have three images of the Buddha made, as a means of generating merit for the sentient beings in the future.

12. Various tour packages (link)
13. Details of journey at shivam.org (link)

The parikrama (Circumambulation) continued a few meters away from the brim of Manasarovar. There is a Tibeten monastery on the bank, to which the guide took around. The sight of the Holy lake was quite impressing. had there been no clouds the shade of the mountains, including the great Kailash would be seen on this dark green water. From the monastery the parikrama again continued towards a hot spring called chiu gompa. On the way to the left was another huge lake called raaxastal. This is the lake created by rAvaNa after his failed misadventure to lift up the Holy Mount Kailash. While people (Hindus and Tibeten Budhdhists) consider the Manasarovar as holy, the adjacent raxastal is not considered good. Before getting to the Holy water of Manasarovar, we wanted to wash away many days’ dirt from our body. The hot sulphur spring on the high grounds near the lake, served that purpose.

14. 16-20 day package for Mt. Kailash (link)
15. Preparing for the Yatra as part of one of the packages (link). This includes information for documentation and visas, clothes, medicines, equipment, health precaution
16. Photos and blog of trip to Lake Mansarovar (link)

Photos and photo gallery:
1. Chiu Gompa and Gang Rinpoche, Mt. Kailash, Tibet (link)
2. Photo on the journey (link)
3. Beautiful photo of Mount Kailash (link)
4. The holy Kailash in Tibet (link)
5. Photo on the travelchinaguide (link)
6. Photos of Mount Kailash at Photographers Direct (link)
7. Beautiful pictures of the journey and Mt. Kailash (link)
8. The Saga Dawa festival at Mt Kailash (link)
9. Pictures of the peak of Mt. Kailash (link)
10. Panorama photo of Mt. Kailash (link)
11. Beautiful photo of Lake Mansarovar (link)
12. Photos at tibettrip (link)
13. Blue water of Lake Mansarovar (link)
14. Slideshow of photos of Lake Mansarovar (link)

Map of Tawang on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

Another map here (maplandia.com)

Trip to Tawang put photos and wrote about the beauty (link)

Tawang, perched at a height of over 10,000 ft, is world-renowned for its 400-year-old Buddhist Monastery, one of the biggest in India. The sixth Dalai Lama was born here. The Tawang Monastery has an interesting collection of Thangkas (Tibetan painting on cloth) and a large gilded statue of Sakyamuni (the historical Buddha) in the prayer hall. The Tawang Monastery, also known as the ‘Galden Namgyal Lhatse’, is beautifully situated on a spur about 2 km from the heart of the town.

Post on AdmirableIndia.com (link)

Founded by the Mera Lama Lodre Gyasto in accordance to the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama, Nagwang Lobsang Gyatso, The Tawang monastery of the Gelugpa sect is the largest Buddhist monastery in India. The name Tawang means Chosen Horse. It is also known in another Tibetan name known as Galden Namgey Lhatse, which means a true name within a celestial paradise in a clear night. Located at an elevation of 10,000 feet (3,300m) in the district capital, Tawang Town, it is home to more than 600 Lamas. It also houses the Parkhang library: a collection of the 400-year-old Kangyurs which consists of 110 volumes with 400-500 pages in each bundle in addition to invaluable manuscripts.

Ghumakkar.com wrote about this ..

The main attraction of this place is this magnificent statue, which measures about 57 feet in height, and is said to be the largest statue Asia sculpted out of a monolith. It is carved out of one single stone, standing as a symbol of renunciation, calm and peaceful. To get a closer look of this statue one has to climb about 700 steps, cut out in the rocks, to reach atop the hill. The steps are not steepy, and they are provided with handrails on both sides, which makes the climbing easier. The aged people and those who cannot climb the steps can take the help of palanguin to be carried up and down, for a reasonable charge.

Location of Dharamshala

We reached a place called The Norbulingka Institute, a center that is dedicated to the preservation of Tibetean culture. Due to Chinese domination of Tibet and the moving of more mainland Chinese into Tibet, there is a fear that the culture of Tibet is being lost. And hence the institute. It is a very beautiful place, with lots of greenery and silence inside. There is a guest house, a doll house, a Buddhist temple and learning place, and a shop that sells Tibetean products (very beautiful).

After spending a fair amount of time in the institute, we moved to the next location in our journey, which was the Chamunda Devi temple. One of the Jwalapeeths, the temple is very famous and gets a large number of disciplines on a daily basis, and many more on auspicious periods. There is a stream flowing just next to the temple, and it is considered holy to take a bath in this stream as well. The shrine also has a beautiful statue of Hanuman and Lord Ram. The temple is located around 20 KM from the town of Kangra.

Once we were done with paying our respects to the deity, we decided to move on, and moved towards the town of Palampur. Palampur is a moderately large town, but somehow we did not find much there to see, except for some tea gardens enroute. We stopped to buy some locally packaged tea right next to one tea garden (unfortunately I do not drink tea, and hence don’t know how good the tea was).
Some distance from Palampur is the Taragarh Heritage hotel, a wonderfully well kept heritage hotel. It is located in a large property, with a wonderful setting of trees and silence. There were a number of foreign tourists over there; additionally, to one side of the compound, there is an historic heritage building that was locked when we went; but we had learnt that it was well maintained.
Next, after some more travel, we reached the ancient Shiva temple of Baijnath. This is a beautiful temple made our of rock, and supposedly first built in the 15th century. It is pretty well maintained now, and is actually a functioning temple, with people coming there to offer prayers; it also has a priest in attendance who does the customary things that are done in a temple. The whole complex comprises of the temple building surrounded by a green area. The surrounding area is essentially full of shops, but you can get a bite to eat if you are hungry.

Where else to go ? There is a park that is built to honor the soldiers who laid down their lives in India’s various wars, and is good to spend some time over there. The last place that we went to was an art gallery that houses prints and paintings by Shobha Singh. The actual gallery is not very big, being one big room of a house where his relatives live; you can actually purchase reprints over there for a couple of thousand. If you are an art lover, then you should really visit this place.
After this visit, we had to leave back to the resort as it started raining, and it took us more than an hour in the rain (which was not very hard), but enough that our driver wanted to get back to the safety of the hotel. One advantage of driving in these locations was that none of the roads were steep or winding.

More Photos (Link to many more photos of Dharamshala, Kangra, and McLeodganj)

One of the picturesque hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is located at a distance of 40 km from Kullu and 521 km from state capital of India, Delhi. One of the preferred tourist destinations of Himachal Pradesh, Manali offers an excellent opportunity for adventurous sports activities like trekking, mountaineering and river rafting. Apart from the these, tourists can travel to Manali to witness century old temples and monasteries like Hadimba temple, Manu temple and the Gadhan Thekchhokling monastery. The small town was the beginning of an ancient trade route to Ladakh and, from there, over the Karakoram Pass on to Yarkand and Khotan in the Tarim Basin.
While planning a tour to Manali, keep in mind the climatic condition of the region, an ideal time for the tour would be mid-May to June and September to November. Monsoon months are to be avoided because of fear of landslides.
Manali derived its name from Manavalaya i.e. the abode of Manu. According to myth, Manu the divine law-giver, was the only survivor of the Mahajal Pralay – the great flood – and is said to have fathered the human race. The valley of gods, as the Kullu valley has come to be known, is perhaps the most delightful region in the western Himalayas. The ancient Hindus regarded it as the furthest limit of human habitation – Kulantapitha, and its original name finds mention in the epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata as well as Vishnu Purana. The actual myth is:
One day, Vaivasvata, the seventh incarnation of Manu found a tiny fish in his bathing water. The fish told him to look after it with devotion for one day it would do him a great service. Manu cared for the fish till it grew huge and he released it into the sea. The the fish warned Manu of an impending deluge when the entire world would be submerged and bade him to build a boat that could save humanity. When the flood came. Vaivasvata and the Seven Sages were towed to safety by Matsya the fish (regarded as the first avatara of Lord Vishnu).

View Larger Map

* Kothi – This is a quiet but picturesque spot, at the foot of the Rohtang pass, 12 km away Manali town, situated on the Lahaul-Spiti Leh Highway. It offers a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers and an awe inspiring gorge below Kothi, where for more than a kilometre the river Beas flows through a deep gorge, almost a subterranean passage, 30 metres or more in depth, and the cliffs which flank both sides of the canyon are a favourite haunt for rock pigeons.
* Van Vihar: This is just off the Mall with pathways between towering deodhars and also leads to a boating pond.
* Tibetan Market and Mall: The Tibetan Market is an interesting cluster of shops. Nice to browse around for knick knacks, handicrafts and imported goods. Located on the Mall. The Mall also has other shops selling local handicrafts and clothes. It also has some good restaurants. Buses, taxis and autos are easily available from the Mall for local sightseeing or excursions.
* Rohtang Pass – Situated at an altitude of 3979 mtrs above sea level and 51 kms outside Manali is the mighty Rohtang Pass – the gateway to Lahaul-Spiti valley. Open for just about four months a year, it affords a wide panoramic view of the mountains. Here one sees the majesty of the mountains at its height and splendour. At the top of the pass the air seems to glitter against the snow as you look down over herringboned ridges into the Lahaul valley. There is the beautiful Dashohar Lake left of the pass. A few km away from the pass is the Sonapani glacier and slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Gaypan-jagged pyramid of rock, snow streaked and snow crowned peaks.
* Solang Valley – 13 kms outside Manali is the Solang Valley, offering spectacular views of the snow-clad mountains and the glaciers all around. Solang is the venue for paragliding and the annual skiing courses. The plateau is frequently used for holding camps by trekking enthusiasts.
* Rahla Falls: 2 km from Kothi. Here the river Beas hurtles down from a height of about 50 metres. Charming spot for picnics.
* Manali Sanctuary: A bridle path from the Manali log huts goes past the Dhoongri Temple and wanders into the dense deodar, kail, horse chestnut, walnut and maple forest that form a part of this sanctuary. Camping overnight in tents at Lambadug or Galiani Thatch is possible. You can see various animals such as Musk deer, monal and brown bear over here.
* Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa : Close to Tibetan Monastery, Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa is another tourist spot which was constructed in 1969. The Lakhang or the shrine hall of the monastery was built by the contributions of local people. The Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa has the idol of Shakyamuni.
* Jagatsukh Temple – About 6 km from Manali is the famous Shiva Temple in “shikara” style and nearby is the old and interesting Devi Sharvali Temple.
* Roerich Art Gallery – In Naggar, the museum, houses a collection of the paintings by the Russian artist. It is located in a grove of deodhars and has lovely views all around. Naggar is very serene and picturesque.
* Hadimba Temple – Also known as the Doongri Temple, this four-tiered pagoda-like wooden temple stands in a clearing amid tall and stately deodar trees and has beautiful carvings on its ornamental door. Dedicated to Hadimba, the wife of Bhim, this temple is the venue for an annual fair held during May. Built in 1553 and with a superbly crafted four tiered pagoda roof. It is famous for its exquisitely carved doorway.
* Vashist Spring – Across the Beas river, about 3 km away from Manali, at an altitude of 1,982 meters (6,200 feet), are the natural sulphur springs. There are old temples dedicated to the sage Vashishth and to Lord Rama. The village itself is perched on a steep hillside across the river Beas.
* Tibetan Monastery – These are new and colorful (3 of them). A pleasant place to visit. Two are located in the town and one at Aleo on the left bank of Beas river.
* Beas Kund – The tiny roundish igloo like stone hut shelters the Beas Kund, the very source of the holy river Beas. Water flows at the source of the river likfe a spring, so clear and icy cold that it almost numbs the fingers. All around is the rocky terrain with very little vegetation. The great rishi, Vyas performed “Tapa” here during the Mahabharat times.
* Manikaran: 85 km from Manali and 45 km from Kullu, lies in the Parvati Valley, the holy pilgrimage place of Manikaran. Here icy cold waters of the Parvati river co-exists with boiling water side-by-side. The hot water springs are reputed for their healing properties.
* Triloknath: Located in the Pattan Valley, its an important pilgrimage centre. Noted for its temple dedicated to six armed statue of Avalokiteshwara Bodhisattva.
* Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave): 4kms. from Manali towards Naggar, the cave is situated near Prini village 1km. above the road where Arjun had meditated. This is good 1/2 a day excursion with a beautiful view of the striking mountains.
* Nehru Kund: 5 kms. on National Highway to Leh,a natural spring of cold clear water named after Pt. Jwahar Lal Nehru, who used to drink water from this spring during his stay in Manali. This spring is believed to originate from the Bhrigu lake situated high-up in the mountains.

Things to do: Manali is famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, para gliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking.

Skiing: 13 km from Manali, Solang Valley has good skiing slopes equipped with an excellent lift. A splendid valley between Manali and Kothi, it also offers views of the glaciers and snow-capped mountain peaks. Season: January – March. Gulaba slopes also provide good skiing. Facilities for skiing are available at Solang Nullah (January-March) and Rohtang La (during summer). The Mountaineering Institute at Solang Nullah is a good training institute.

Trekking: There are several good hikes from Manali. The 12 km hike up the western banks of the Beas to the Solang Valley is noteworthy. Lama Dugh meadow is a 6 km hike up to the Manalsu Nala, west of Manali town. Another great trek is from Solang Valley to Dhundhi onto Dussar Lake and terminating at Manali (a good 5 day trek)

Whitewater River Rafting: Many organized adventure companies organise rafting along the River Beas between the stretch from Manali to Aut. The points where the rafting trips start from are Raison and Mohal. Season: May to mid June.

Angling and Fishing: River Beas is said to abound with trout and salmon.

Paragliding – Organized by the local adventure companies in the summers in Solang Valley.

How to get there:
By Air: Manali has no airport of its own. The nearest one Bhuntas is around 10 km south of Kullu town and about 50 km from Manali.
By Train: Chandigarh, about 280 km away and Joginder Nagar, about 200 km away.
By Road: Manali is well connected by road to Delhi through NH-21 which goes on to Leh and is the world’s highest motorable road.

Places to stay:
Good reference article (link)
Span Resorts: Phone : (01902) 240138, 240538
Manali Resort
Holiday Inn: Tel.: 01902-52563, 53312
Manali Heights: PH no: 01902-252621-252061
Apple Country: Phone: +91 – 1902 254187 – 89
Banon Resorts: Tel: +91-1902-253026, 252490, 253994
Lords Regency
Orchard Greens
Sun Park
Ankit Palace
Beas View
Evergreen
Snow Crest Manor
Manu Allaya (Ambassador Resorts): Tel.: 01902 – 252235 – 38 Fax: 252173
Quality Inn River Country
Hotel Honeymoon Inn
Hotel Sagar Resort
Hotel Shingar regency: Tel:+91 1902 252251-52
Hotel Lord’s Regency
Glacior Resorts
Hotel Evergreen
Snow Valley Resorts (link)
Hotel Vintage
Hotel Mountain Top
Hotel Sunpark
Club Mahindra: Tel : (01902) 254181 / 82/ 83
Highland Park, Manali: Phone: 01902 256501/02/03
Vacred Manali Resorts
Hotel Manali Ashok
Piccadily Hotel
Sagar Resort
Kanishka Hotel
Hotel Chandramukhi
Glacier Resorts
Hotel Regent Centre Point

Other articles:
Some good photos (link)
Book a luxury bus (link)
Blog 1
Sandeepinlife blog (link)

Centuries ago, when man first began to look up at the sky and wonder what lay above him, he’s been captive to an inherent urge to fly- to soar above and see what the earth looks like from way up there. He has used balloons, developed flight, spacecraft, and so on. But the easiest way to fly (and probably the cheapest) is through the adventure sports of hang-gliding and para-gliding. In India, Himachal Pradesh is one of the centers of these sports. And inside Himachal, a small town near Palampur is one of the centers.
Called Billing, this small adventure village is one of the centers of hang-gliding in India, and has become extremely famous in the recent past. The bald peak of Billing, above the Buddhist monastery of Bir in Kangra, has been the venue for five national and three international hang-gliding rallies since 1984. The site is perfect for para-gliding too. Its topography makes it the most suited venue for future world paragliding championships. Billing in Himachal Pradesh is located at 8,500 feet in the Kangra valley. The massive Dhauladar mountain range and the Kangra valley below with its panoramic views offer opportunities for high altitude ‘up and down’ and ‘cross-country’ flying for more than 200-km.

Location of Palampur

View Larger Map

Billing is by far and away Himachal’s most prominent site for hang gliding and parasailing. It offers nearly a 100 km of clear, beautiful countryside where gliding is possible, and the Aero Sports Club at nearby Bir is a good place to go for assistance of any kind. Up to Bir town you can travel by any vehicle. The 14 km distance from Bir to billing is actually a rock road, whose rock cutting was done way back in 1962. It is advisable that this distance be covered either by foot or if by a vehicle then Gypsy or the Mahindra which are suitable for this terrain.

What is hang-gliding ? In Hang Gliding, you are suspended by a harness from a large type of a kite called a Hang Glider. Hang-gliding requires some training and handling the glider is tougher than handling the equipment using in para-gliding.
What is Para-Gliding? Para Gliding is another adventure sport that has caught the fancy of the people al over the world. The credit of introducing Para Gliding goes to Dr Francis Rogalo who constructed a flexible Delta Kite for gliding. But, the sport gained popularity only in early 80′s. It is lighter and easier than Hand Gliding and safer than Hang Gliding. This sport was introduced in India in 1991-92, when some foreign visiting pilots decided to explore flying possibilities in the Kullu Valley. The sport with its self-advertising nature soon charmed the Valley adventure lovers, who had till then been involved in skiing, trekking and rock climbing.

Bir has Buddhist Monasteries that are worth visiting. Fine Tibetan handi craft are also produced here. Bir, surrounded by tea gardens and an amphitheater of low hills, is an ideal landing around for para-gliders. Bir is famous for an annual fair, which is related to Holi festival. During the festival, locals come dressed in their best clothes and dance and sing joyously.

What to carry:
Warm clothing and a windcheater are a must, as the higher you rise, the lower the temperature falls, and it can get quite cold. Make sure you’re wearing sturdy ankle-support shoes, long trousers, and gloves. A pair of sunglasses and a liberal splash of suntan lotion are highly recommended too. You should also carry your own bedding, medicines, mineral water, etc. Smaller and more inaccessible sites such as Billing need not have the comfort of even small towns. The best time for hang gliding is May-June and September-October.

Accommodation:
Basic accommodation is available at Bir and Chaughan Tibetan colony. The facilities are limited so its better to make arrangements in advance especially during season.
For Billing, fiberglass tents and tented accommodation can be arranged through the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation.
Chaughan Tibetan colony, Shakya guest house (basic amenities)

Getting there:
Air: Kangra has its own domestic airport at Guggal, which is 7km away from Kangra town and about 40 km from Palampur. Kangra airport is connected to Pathankot and Delhi.
Rail : Pathankot is the nearest railhead. There is an overnight train from Delhi to Pathankot. From Pathankot Palampur is connected by narrow guage railway. One can also take a bus or taxi to Bir from Pathankot.
Road: There are ordinary, semi deluxe or deluxe buses available from Delhi and other major towns of Himachal Pradesh to Dharamsala, Palampur, Baijnath, Jogindernagar or Mandi (all of them relatively close to Bir)
Contact details of the HP tourism dept located at this link.

Some videos of this sport in Billing (link)
A beautiful photos of para-gliding in Billing (link)
A great post outlining the adventure, the risks and precautions that you need to take (link)
Refer to this website if you are looking for more information (http://www.paraglidingindia.net/)
Pre World Cup : Bir/Billing, Himachal – Oct 2008 (link)
More videos of para-gliding ( link)