| Gangotri-Gaumukh Tapovan Trekking | ||||
| The Holy River Ganges is the most sacred river in the Hindu religion and its source at Gomukh on the Gangotri glacier and many other peaks. Gomukh is one of the holiest places for Hindu pilgrims who come here to witness the birth of Mother Ganga. The trek takes you to Gomukh (cows mouth), the mythological source of the River Ganges, which is at the snout of the Gangotri glacier.
In the morning after breakfast drive to Gangotri via a beautiful valley Harsil. Enroute take a holy dip in Gangnani hot water springs. Arrive at Gangotri by evening. Check in to hotel for dinner and overnight stay. Gangnani: Further up on way to Gangotri about 26 kms from Maneri is the hot water spring at Gangnani, where one can have refreshing bath in the Kund called Rishi Kund. There is a temple near the Kund dedicated to the Sage Parashar, believed to be the father of Ved Vyas. Harsil: Harsil is a beautiful spot to see the colors of the nature. The walks, picnics and trek lead one to undiscovered stretches of green, grassy land. Harsil is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Sighting here includes the Wilson Cottage, built in 1864 and Sat Tal (seven Lakes). The adventurous tourists have the choice to set off on various treks that introduces them to beautiful meadows, waterfalls and valleys. Situated amidst the incredible beauty of mountain peaks, Harsil is counted amongst some of the most beautiful places in the Garhwal region. Gangotri: The shrine of Gangotri is situated at an elevation of 3200 m surrounded by deodars and pines. The original temple was constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa. Every year people from all around the world visit this shrine. A number of ashrams and dharamshalas are located on the other side of the river. It is believed that Raja Bhagirath used to worship Shiva on a slab of rock "Bhagirath Shila" situated near the temple. Submerged in the river there is a natural Shivling where, according to mythology, Lord Shiva sat when he received the Goddess Ganga in his matted locks. A days trek takes one to Gomukh, the source of the mighty Ganges. Day 04): Gangotri (3048 mts/10000 ft)- Bhojwassa (3792 mts/12440 ft) 13 kms trek/5-6 hrs) Morning after breakfast we commands our trek further to Bhojwassa via Chirbasa (3600mt). From Gangotri we move along the beaten track towards Chirbasa, which is on tree line. The entire trek today is along the roaring Bhagirathi River. Beyond Chirbasa the terrain becomes really desolate and barren. In fact, it has been referred to as Artic Tundra by many trekkers. From Chirbasa we trek further to Bhojwassa, the entire trail passes through dense forest, Arrive Bhojwassa; there is a small temple and a potential campsite near down the river. We make our camp near river side. Afternoon free to explore the area and to enjoy excellent sunset on Bhagirathi group of peaks. Dinner and overnight stay in tents. Day 05): Bhojwassa - Gomukh (3890 mts/12760 ft) - Tapovan>(4463 mts / 14640 ft) Early in the Morning enjoy the panoramic view of Bhagirathi group of peaks. After breakfast trek to Gomukh (3890mt), the source of the Ganges. Gomukh is where the water of Ganga trickles down from the glaciers. The sages called it 'Gomukh', because in the distant past, it probably appeared like a cow's mouth. Explore the area and trek to Tapovan, one of the finest high altitude alpine meadows in the area. The trek from Gomukh to Tapovan is ascent steep, and as we climb, the view of the surrounding peaks becomes clearer. The appear to be just a stone's throw away. Tapovan known for its beautiful meadows that encircle the base camp of the Shivling peak, Tapovan is a very pleasant surprised spot with a large meadow complete with bubbling streams, wildflowers and campsites. Herds of Bharal (blue mountain goats) are a common sight from here on mountain ridges. On the far side of the glacier the Bhagirathi I, II, III (6454mt), provide an equally impressive backdrop. It is also the little wonder where Sadhus and saints choose this spot for extended meditation during the long summer month. Arrive Tapovan and camp. Dinner and overnight stay in camp.
We trace back to Nandan van via Gomukh glacier. The route from Tapovan leads from the upper section of the meadow till down and onto the glacier. From Gomukh turn towards Nandanvan (4340m) and steering on right one will be on top of the Gangotri glacier. The glacier runs between two ranges and the landslides make a layer of rocky moraine on the ice which makes the walking easier. The glacier walk is very slippery and a slight lack of concentration would be dangerous. Huge crevasses gaped here and there. After a walking for about a kilometer there is a vertical ascent. Big rocks enroute offer grips and foot - holds but many of them are deceptive too. Dinner and overnight stay in tents. Day 08): Nandanvan - Bhojwassa(Trek 4-5 hrs) Early morning enjoy the sunrise on high peaks. After breakfast trek down to Bhojwassa. Arrive Bhojwassa and camp. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp. Day 09): Bhojwassa - Gangotri(Trek 4-5 hrs) – Uttarkashi Morning after breakfast trek down to Gangotri, where our car will be waiting for us. Then drive to Uttarkashi. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp. Day 10): Uttarkashi – Haridwar (170 kms/5 hrs) -Delhi Morning after breakfast drive to Haridwar. On arrival transfer to railway station to catch Dehradun Shatabdi train for Delhi at 18:05 hrs. Arrival at Delhi by 22:45 hrs. On arrival transfer to hotel for overnight stay. Day 11): New Delhi- Departure Transfer to the airport time to catch flight for onward destinations |
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Gangotri-Gaumukh Tapovan Trekking
Visit Ganpatipule
If you are looking for a beautiful, clean, pristine sea beach, far away from the mad, mad crowd, you will love Ganpatipule.
If you have the time and the inclination, there are a number of nearby forts to explore.
And of course, the famous 400 year old Ganapati temple is a major attraction.
It is not too close to Mumbai, not very well known and therefore not crowded.
The beautiful journey
The road to Ganpatipule runs almost parallel to the western coast of India.
You pass through towns and villages scattered across roads lined with red tiled-roof houses having large courtyards with different kinds of fruit trees.
And you get beautiful glimpses of the casuarina lined coast.
The 7 hour road journey is thoroughly enjoyable.
Things to see in and around Ganpatipule
The Beach
The clean, sprawling beach is wonderful.
The blue waters of the Arabian sea and the silver sands transform you into one of the fairy tale islands.
You can play around in the water or walk across the beach in the moon light.
Malgund is a small village, about 2 kms away from Ganapatipule.
It is the birthplace of Keshavsoot, the famous Marathi poet.
You can visit his old house and see his inkpot, writing desk and ‘jhula’ (swing).
Jaigad Fort
This legendary fort is only 35 kms from Ganapatipule.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri, 45 kms from Ganaptipule, is the land of the ‘Hapus’ or Alphonso mangoes.
It is also the birthplace of Lokmanya Tilak, the famous freedom fighter.
His house is now open to the visitors.
Accommodation
MTDC Holiday Resort spread over 45 acres of land near the coast is the best.
The rates are also quite reasonable.
Hotel Land Mark, a little distance from Ganpatipule, is another good hotel.
There are several other cheaper hotels.
Getting there
Road
Mumbai to Ganapatipule – 375 kms
Pune to Ganapatipule – 331 kms
Ratnagiri to Ganapatipule – 45 kms
Rail
The nearest railway stations are Bhoke (35 kms from Ganapatipule) and Ratnagiri on (45 kms from Ganapatipule).
But the latter is more convenient.
If you have the time and the inclination, there are a number of nearby forts to explore.
And of course, the famous 400 year old Ganapati temple is a major attraction.
Location
Ganpatipule is a small village on the sea coast near Ratnagiri – 375 kms south of Mumbai.It is not too close to Mumbai, not very well known and therefore not crowded.
The beautiful journey
The road to Ganpatipule runs almost parallel to the western coast of India.
You pass through towns and villages scattered across roads lined with red tiled-roof houses having large courtyards with different kinds of fruit trees.
And you get beautiful glimpses of the casuarina lined coast.
The 7 hour road journey is thoroughly enjoyable.
Things to see in and around Ganpatipule
The Beach
The clean, sprawling beach is wonderful.
The blue waters of the Arabian sea and the silver sands transform you into one of the fairy tale islands.
You can play around in the water or walk across the beach in the moon light.
Swayambhu Ganapati Temple
Swayambhu means ‘self appeared’.
It is believed that the idol of Ganesha in the temple originated by itself.
A lot of visitors take a ‘pradakshina’ or walk around the temple.
The one kilometre walk on the beautiful ‘Pradakshina Marg’ lined with trees and plants is enjoyable.
You get beautiful views of the beach from here.
Swayambhu means ‘self appeared’.
It is believed that the idol of Ganesha in the temple originated by itself.
A lot of visitors take a ‘pradakshina’ or walk around the temple.
The one kilometre walk on the beautiful ‘Pradakshina Marg’ lined with trees and plants is enjoyable.
You get beautiful views of the beach from here.
Ganapatipule Market
Ganapatipule Market is small but interesting.
You can taste the local ‘Kokam’ sherbet, ‘Modak’ , Pav Bhaji, Chaat dishes, Wada Pav, Samosa Pav, Lime Water, etc.
MalgundGanapatipule Market is small but interesting.
You can taste the local ‘Kokam’ sherbet, ‘Modak’ , Pav Bhaji, Chaat dishes, Wada Pav, Samosa Pav, Lime Water, etc.
Malgund is a small village, about 2 kms away from Ganapatipule.
It is the birthplace of Keshavsoot, the famous Marathi poet.
You can visit his old house and see his inkpot, writing desk and ‘jhula’ (swing).
Jaigad Fort
This legendary fort is only 35 kms from Ganapatipule.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri, 45 kms from Ganaptipule, is the land of the ‘Hapus’ or Alphonso mangoes.
It is also the birthplace of Lokmanya Tilak, the famous freedom fighter.
His house is now open to the visitors.
Accommodation
MTDC Holiday Resort spread over 45 acres of land near the coast is the best.
The rates are also quite reasonable.
Hotel Land Mark, a little distance from Ganpatipule, is another good hotel.
There are several other cheaper hotels.
Getting there
Road
Mumbai to Ganapatipule – 375 kms
Pune to Ganapatipule – 331 kms
Ratnagiri to Ganapatipule – 45 kms
Rail
The nearest railway stations are Bhoke (35 kms from Ganapatipule) and Ratnagiri on (45 kms from Ganapatipule).
But the latter is more convenient.
Mumbai to Gokarna
One of the nearby getaways around maharashtra & konkan area...
Mumbai - Kumta- Managlore Express (nearest railway station)
Rs 400
Kumta - Gorarna town (state transport bus)
Rs 100
Gokarna town - OM Beach (auto - Rs120)
Stay at Namaste Cafe at OM beach resort(Rs1200 per day)
Return by train(Gokarna Rd - Lokmanya Tilak) Matsyagandha Express
Rs.400
Relaxation : FREE
Ladakhing and Leh'ing Around
From Mumbai to Ladakh
Route:
Mumbai - Chandigargh ( Flight)
Rs. 3200
Chandigarh - Manali ( Himachal State Transport Bus)
Rs.500
Manali - Leh ( Sharing Car/Mini Bus with a stop at Sarchu)
Rs.1700
Where to Stay? Staying in Leh could be Rs 400 -500 per day - Mona Lisa Guest House at Changspa Road
Places around Leh:
Pangong Lake: Sharing from Leh - Pangong one day trip Rs 1500 per head
Nubra Valley : Two day trip : Rs 1600 + Rs 500 for staying at diskit
Travelling from Leh to Thiksey = Rs. 100 two way by state transport Bus
Leh - Srinagar (Overnight sharing Car /Mini Bus Non stop via Kargil)
Rs.1500
Srinagar - Mumbai (Flight)
Rs.4000
You can also try downhill mountain biking from World's highest motorable road, Khardungla Pass to Leh!
Contact any travel agent at Changspa Road -Leh for arrangements
Apart from above Rs 200 per day for food at a budget restuarant.
My way is the highway
My way is the highway
As World Tourism Day approaches on Sept 27, Sunday Times tracks desi backpackers — that often ignored group which is slowly making its presence felt
Atul Sethi | TNN
Animesh Rawal doesn’t mind calling himself kanjoos, a miser. But then, being a kanjoos can sometimes be a handy trait, especially if you are backpacking around the globe on a shoestring budget. The Bangalore-based former IT professional with a fondness for languages —his profile says he is fluent in English, Hindi and Indonesian, conversational in Spanish, and can “convincingly make a fool of myself in French” — has set for himself the challenge of backpacking around the world in six months, without spending more than Rs 2 lakh from his pocket (expenses on beer excluded). “The myth that ‘Indians don’t backpack’ has been broken time and again by desis from all over the globe,” says the 20-something globetrotter intent on busting the myth further with what he calls the ‘Do Peti Challenge’ — the Rs two lakh-challenge.
Rawal epitomizes the rising generation of confident, young Indian backpackers who are increasingly hitting the road, often in the truest tradition of backpacking — taking each day as it comes and savouring the journey as well as the destination.
Akshay Chhugani, who set up the Indian Backpacker Company, a travel planning outfit targeting foreign backpackers coming to India, says he was surprised to get a lot of business from Indian customers. “Our clients are mainly the young, often those in the 22-26 age group. The concept is especially popular among college students who may have visited popular destinations with their families and now want to experience the flavour of backpacking, usually in off-beat places.”
Interestingly, there are more women backpacking now — at least to destinations outside India. Yogi Shah, CEO of Mumbai-based The Backpacker Co, says the ratio of Indian women to men backpackers going abroad is 60:40. “Popular destinations for Indian women backpackers are Europe and the UK,” he adds. But desi destinations are catching up fast, too — notwithstanding the perception of the country being unsafe for female backpackers. Meha Ved, who got bitten by the backpacking bug five years ago on a holiday to Dharamsala, has since been on backpacking trips to Gaumukh, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Ladakh and Kashmir, accompanied in her trips by another female friend. “Although we seldom saw a single girl or a bunch of girls travelling, it never bothered us
because people went out of the
way to help us. For instance, when we were in Kashmir during the Ramzan month, and wanted to taste kahwa — the Kashmiri saffron tea — the waiter at a restaurant told us that it was not being served due to Ramzan. But soon, he got us two steaming hot cups of kahwa from somewhere and refused to take any money for it.”
Such incidents among backpackers abound. An Indian couple that backpacked across Europe last year reminisces being stranded at an obscure railway station in Italy when they heard a familiar tune. It was Salman Khan’s song from his latest movie! They located the source of the song to a shop selling Indian groceries and got directions and a complimentary hot Indian meal.
Europe and the Far East have always been popular with Indian backpackers. But, interestingly, the style of backpacking changes when away from home. “Indians, by na ture are flashpackers, especially when travelling abroad,” says Chhugani. Flashpacking is a term used for affluent backpackers who travel with technological gadgets and are not averse to splurging on accommodation or travel options unlike the quintessential back packer who doesn't mind roughing it out.
But such distinctions may be getting fluid as backpacking itself becomes more broad-based and in tune with the times. Shah says this is reflected in many little things. “Earlier, hostels which backpackers used were bottom-of the-barrel. But now, hostels offer private room options and are more evolved. Also, many back packers hitchhiked their way around, but now it’s illegal to do so in many countries. And, unlike the past when backpackers could take off when they wanted, now it’s impossible to get visas unless there is a fixed itinerary.”
Flashpacker or backpacker — the term may vary, but the reason for travelling doesn’t. Subhashish Roy, who makes it a point to back pack inside India at least once every three months, says the soul of the backpacking experience lies in going off on a trip where nobody tells you what to do. “For me, it essentially means experi encing the unknown, mingling with the locals and getting a fla vour of their lives,” he says.
TV actor Ejaz Khan, another ardent backpacker, echoes this thought, but adds another dimen sion to it. “Backpacking is often
highly educative experience One of my most memora ble backpacking trips was when I, along with a friend, stayed in small village near Nasik. We bathed in ponds and experienced village life. Through our interactions, we were able to understand the conditions that prompted most young men in the village to leave for the cities. It in spired us to do something constructive for rural em ployment in the future.” This, then, may con tain the essence of the backpacking experience — learning more about how others live. As someone once said, “ travel because there is no greater teacher.”
atul.sethi@timesgroup.com
BLAZING A TRAIL More Indian women are backpacking, especially to destinations outside India
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