Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Trekking in Himalaya





The Himalayan chain is spread southeast to northwest across the Asian continent. What is called the ‘Indian Himalaya’ is that part of the Himalayan chain which lies within Indian Territory. In the east, the Indian Himalaya originates from a knot between Myanmar. China and India. The chain continues to the border of Bhutan. Beyond that lies Sikkim, home to many peaks including the world’s third highest, Kangchenjunga. The Himalayan range west of Sikkim forms part of Nepal until you reach the border of Kumaun and Garhwal. From here the Indian Himalayan chain continues without a break through Kinnaur, Spiti, Ladakh and lastly East Karakoram.

India is a vast country with the Himalayan Range forming its northern boundary. Its climate and geography are complex, so when considering your trip you need to plan carefully where to go, when to go and what your budget is. The initial experience of India - the heat, the noise and the street life, the vibrant colours and the multitudes of people - may bewilder and exhaust the first - time visitor, but the country and its people are friendly and hospitable. Once you have spent some time here everything will fall into place, and you will be amply rewarded with your first glimpse of the Himalayan peaks, one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world.


Thursday, June 4, 2009

Ratangadh - a Great experience !


Igatpuri is the most convenient station , can go either by train or vehicle. From Igatpuri take bus for Igatpuri it reaches village Shendi/ Bhandardara within 1 1/2 hr (~ 35 km.). The Bhandardara lake has to be crossed by launch. Launch timings are not fixed, there is a alternative road if you are going by your own vehicle.
Ratanwadi is the village situated on Ratangadh base, It takes for about 2:30 hr to reach the Top.
Top of Ratangad has two caves in which stay can be made. One can go around the fort to have a look at the nearby mountains in the Kalsubai range. Ratangad also has a natural orifice (nedhe). It is also possible to go an sit in this nedhe .
Kalsubai is the highest peak in Maharashtra, mammoth hills of Alanggad, Madangad and Kulanggad on the right side, is a real treat.
Great experience !
Best season : August (rainy season) / December-January