tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3216296710692515052024-03-18T12:59:35.248+05:30Arjun HaarithArjun Haarith - PhotographyArjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-14775804043537865422022-07-11T00:50:00.014+05:302022-07-28T16:00:38.053+05:30Netravathi Peak - Venturing the Gardens of God<p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdU358ONrYmd1cmcNCezqs-3U03ida5fxDW_jcJadwSD5ZRqUrT_Uvx0k-1dWqffjoZxRghEWmsjc6aqlKsqT9ty672-CpNYCz0qCZS-ajDJKcv9gF1gxl7FGui1JA7xYTwiV7FGundRKDeerbc1sIj80whbWERdeW9KY64uMeZB3MLp3iCKQjsvypA/s1500/Header%20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1049" data-original-width="1500" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdU358ONrYmd1cmcNCezqs-3U03ida5fxDW_jcJadwSD5ZRqUrT_Uvx0k-1dWqffjoZxRghEWmsjc6aqlKsqT9ty672-CpNYCz0qCZS-ajDJKcv9gF1gxl7FGui1JA7xYTwiV7FGundRKDeerbc1sIj80whbWERdeW9KY64uMeZB3MLp3iCKQjsvypA/w640-h448/Header%20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Hello Friends,</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Welcome to my new post. Hope you enjoy reading the same !!</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Due to some prior commitments, I was not able to come up with a blog post for a long time. Even though the trek was completed in 2021, I am posting this in 2022 (making it the first post of 2022).</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Mr. Vishwanath of <a href="https://summitersadventures.com/" target="_blank">Summiters</a> had told me about this trek in 2017, when we had trekked the <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2017/10/face-to-face-with-horses-face-kudremukh.html" target="_blank">Kudremukha</a> peak together. He even invited me to join him for the Netravathi peak trek from ever since, but I wasn’t able to join him due to personal reasons.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Fast forward to December 2021… Vishwanath and myself were talking about his upcoming schedule for the year, and that is when he reminded me again about the Netravati trek . He was planning to go with a small team during the second week of December 2021, and I immediately agreed to join him come what may. Eventually, the trek was arranged on 11th and 12th of December, 2021</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">I then discussed about this trek with some of my friends, and a couple of them agreed to join me.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Each trek is extremely exciting and careful planning makes the trek memorable. In this regard, I spoke to my friends and decided on the trek plan the previous day.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></span></p><h4 style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The Journey :</span></h4><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></span></p><h3 style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">10th December, Friday :</span></h3><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Vishwanath had asked the team to meet at Nagasandra metro station by 9.30 PM where a tempo was arranged to pick us.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Bhargav, Meghana and myself stay close-by and we decided to meet at Yelachenahalli station and go together. If you have read my earlier blog about <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2021/10/ettina-bhuja-conquering-oxs-shoulder.html" target="_blank">Ettina Bhuja</a>, you will be aware of Bhargav and Meghana (this couple are actually couples 😀) <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space">While I was waiting for my friends at the Metro station, I tried my hands on mobile photography. The interiors of Metro station in Bangalore are very intriguing for photographers.</span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccr3zNMcl3FPExKMhu7SahSOr5pZPoGh1UU6GUdWRsizZsO5crq5-_H8VkFqQgAND4oaKA3vFHne-l8FNjfJrCNs-Hl9NyTX6UFOwdtnawUaLcVSdrx1_rn3ZtY6FMKlI67k9r7zWioTvPMX9ub0S2w9iIRFHSBe8UWHRG2wFEPqJ1oFj2t475ujNPA/s1024/Metro.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="626" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccr3zNMcl3FPExKMhu7SahSOr5pZPoGh1UU6GUdWRsizZsO5crq5-_H8VkFqQgAND4oaKA3vFHne-l8FNjfJrCNs-Hl9NyTX6UFOwdtnawUaLcVSdrx1_rn3ZtY6FMKlI67k9r7zWioTvPMX9ub0S2w9iIRFHSBe8UWHRG2wFEPqJ1oFj2t475ujNPA/w392-h640/Metro.jpg" width="392" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Namma Metro welcoming the passengers !</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space">We met the whole team at Nagasandra station, and our journey towards the western ghats started. It's always very nice to meet new people, and this is what makes the trek interesting. After a short introduction by team members, Vishwanath briefed us on the trek. We were all so engrossed in the discussion, that we failed to notice that we were already on the Hassan highway. A short break at one of the restaurants was a great refresher for all of us.</span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space">Within no time, people started to hit the bed only to be awakened by the steep curves of the Western Ghats. That is when we realised it was 4.30 AM and we were almost close to our homestay.</span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span class="Apple-converted-space">After we passed through the quaint hilly town of Kalasa, I realised that we had entered the Kudremukh limits. The tempo stopped near a place called </span>Guthyadka, where an open jeep from the homestay was ready to pick us up. </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">We all got down from the tempo to only realize how cold and dark it was outside. The cold December winds made people to shiver, and some of us even thought 'Do we still need to do this trek 😀 ' ? </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The crystal clear sky was exposing all its gems throughout the night, and we could clearly see the Orion Constellation & Orion Nebula among many other celestial objects.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">We then hopped on the open jeep, and little did we know that it was a journey of another 6kms uphill on a bumpy road. While many of them were counting the stars, some of them were even counting for their broken bones 😀</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><h3 style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">11th December, Saturday :</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The skilful driver took us to the homestay within 30 mins and it was still pitch dark outside. Vishwanath suggested that we take some rest for a couple of hours and start the trek with fresh energy. We followed his advice promptly and hit the bed in no time. All of us woke up around 7.30 AM and finished the morning chores by 8AM. By then, the hosts had prepared super delicious breakfast which comprised of Idli- chutney, Avalakki (poha) and piping hot filter coffee. </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Sipping a cup of hot Filter Coffee in the land of Coffee is nothing short of heaven.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAaTcOn3tYIxVkMdDba_O_Wy_kF1yI2o83eW8f1BSmaAF8Cc7b88IuT0V9nIAfv1dh4_Br0wgPmuV9_GBpbz20UsWU56w0ENtNuFVfIN6SWaQzAVJYLCgSYwgxcnY2bBkXvwVYFypvh6Gbd2Jsi2vd1AKSYeWe65HEUYZjVXIhysfWxQTuAyu7MPwJNg/s1500/_ARJ8716.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1285" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAaTcOn3tYIxVkMdDba_O_Wy_kF1yI2o83eW8f1BSmaAF8Cc7b88IuT0V9nIAfv1dh4_Br0wgPmuV9_GBpbz20UsWU56w0ENtNuFVfIN6SWaQzAVJYLCgSYwgxcnY2bBkXvwVYFypvh6Gbd2Jsi2vd1AKSYeWe65HEUYZjVXIhysfWxQTuAyu7MPwJNg/w548-h640/_ARJ8716.jpg" width="548" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Our home for the next two days<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">By then, our guide Mr. Surendra had packed lunch for us and we hit the trekking trail by 9 AM. The trail was just above our homestay that eventually led us to the shola forests. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4SOd9hUstNsjkqXCbQdnblT1II4CTxjFITe_X7A5AQDmZbkH74ysmLRWow8pggjWYxnxA5xGsgRZMIlETHAzQlLxlOtT41PFDPQhBQra-XsrMgT5g9zAdjMCtI15mibf_uWi2RBcIi6B7KP52tex1iftuPdh9SJwzKQr1xXZla9cPJ4VCerVallvLBQ/s1500/Trek-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="1500" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4SOd9hUstNsjkqXCbQdnblT1II4CTxjFITe_X7A5AQDmZbkH74ysmLRWow8pggjWYxnxA5xGsgRZMIlETHAzQlLxlOtT41PFDPQhBQra-XsrMgT5g9zAdjMCtI15mibf_uWi2RBcIi6B7KP52tex1iftuPdh9SJwzKQr1xXZla9cPJ4VCerVallvLBQ/w640-h390/Trek-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The initial trail was mostly filled with gravels and was extremely slippery. This was a gradual ascent for about 2 kms before we encountered the first patch of Sholas.</span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEwFZbr4zxe7Mh_K0WC_FDdf8hZ6JnlaFTBY6Vji9Fdx6PynzUPMGCirlnpinIlenbXGZ30QZw-LbQ_bzCWvVIQRBhZZm5KIhZpeWa9tBJqDAdzYhuY28UhOmxTkU8qr4J-CUZv_UzwsQfxRVVOaiJMZrfvstEOdnauZofzrZXSJKfwR4rXekyyaBNA/s1500/_ARJ8726.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1500" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEwFZbr4zxe7Mh_K0WC_FDdf8hZ6JnlaFTBY6Vji9Fdx6PynzUPMGCirlnpinIlenbXGZ30QZw-LbQ_bzCWvVIQRBhZZm5KIhZpeWa9tBJqDAdzYhuY28UhOmxTkU8qr4J-CUZv_UzwsQfxRVVOaiJMZrfvstEOdnauZofzrZXSJKfwR4rXekyyaBNA/w640-h368/_ARJ8726.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Isolated homes as seen from the forest trail</span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3ASqW0vHUKVDZ8Bofp2NUYIvhAghQ5OqL7rpDAT_jhaDITbH93z9NBCuAHgIjD5fe20H8o6WoX5sOa8o5a77i4Bd0L8-ZDf3kcWiHR7cneKLYXn-X0CLT1Ychjgxo1a_N_L7l5_q9fNhVw0HL-XjfszxDsq5TSgAyROOByhr2CmqaM8MWvUDKPOJFA/s1500/_ARJ8734.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1005" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3ASqW0vHUKVDZ8Bofp2NUYIvhAghQ5OqL7rpDAT_jhaDITbH93z9NBCuAHgIjD5fe20H8o6WoX5sOa8o5a77i4Bd0L8-ZDf3kcWiHR7cneKLYXn-X0CLT1Ychjgxo1a_N_L7l5_q9fNhVw0HL-XjfszxDsq5TSgAyROOByhr2CmqaM8MWvUDKPOJFA/w428-h640/_ARJ8734.jpg" width="428" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><p style="color: #ffe599;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">What makes this trek interesting and totally worth it ?</span></p><p style="color: #ffe599;"><span style="color: #cfe2f3;">This trek is a combination of Adrenaline Terrains like Crossing streams, Hiking the Emerald grasslands, Soaking yourself in the Waterfalls and then Climbing the mountains covered with clouds before you finally conquer the 1500m peak.</span></p><p style="color: #ffe599;"><i>(You will find out the answer by yourself at the end of the blog... Keep reading !!)</i></p></span></div><div style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">After we trekked for 10 minutes in the Shola forests, we arrived at a Y junction where the trails looked similar. This is where the knowledge of the guide comes into picture. If we were alone, there were high chances that the correct route would have been missed. The path towards the left leads us to the inner shola forests. The path on the right leads us to Netravathi peak.</span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The beauty of this trek is, you encounter both the Sholas and the Grasslands on and off. The first minute you see grasslands, the next minute you are already in thick Shola forests.</span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY2Ph0rfafWyAwLxoW2mvTizxitNY4YM2Y_4vGlkGhC6J0iBE7ZXpNh70cCV2ojh-ezK5vTS6bttju-ep0ZIf6CulIyZomapFN11Yazp1xyLgd7mT63MPPTqECI7ZA0pzVPVghIskK9UEdpldx8K0bMSDQPlKMCMhui9FIx8pFAS1LjFS8Aqngu-JTqg/s1500/_ARJ8737.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="1500" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY2Ph0rfafWyAwLxoW2mvTizxitNY4YM2Y_4vGlkGhC6J0iBE7ZXpNh70cCV2ojh-ezK5vTS6bttju-ep0ZIf6CulIyZomapFN11Yazp1xyLgd7mT63MPPTqECI7ZA0pzVPVghIskK9UEdpldx8K0bMSDQPlKMCMhui9FIx8pFAS1LjFS8Aqngu-JTqg/w640-h414/_ARJ8737.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">It was now a break time for all of us as we enjoyed the beauty of the place by sitting on a huge rock besides us. It was also a time where we could examine ourselves for Leeches.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKt6tZvmZOfRTXzFYU_iSj9w95o6Gr5SOEJzTOZczx_2Yj4wQF7TEBTRY-P5FHGRq595lF41EZckXYjNR3ywuizVc9Qtph1Dv6eYxVeAtgji3qPjAV5Tg_xPqvNAYlXL-gjEKvA44FhhXZYU73v4YfXKeBnK3J1mTpD8zMcWBF4UnHiADFUu6IYPDI-Q/s1500/_ARJ8744.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1500" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKt6tZvmZOfRTXzFYU_iSj9w95o6Gr5SOEJzTOZczx_2Yj4wQF7TEBTRY-P5FHGRq595lF41EZckXYjNR3ywuizVc9Qtph1Dv6eYxVeAtgji3qPjAV5Tg_xPqvNAYlXL-gjEKvA44FhhXZYU73v4YfXKeBnK3J1mTpD8zMcWBF4UnHiADFUu6IYPDI-Q/w640-h378/_ARJ8744.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGkCNZ7B34KQBO5Hpk2mRT4VJtQfUDoQfdeFq9fxCtpp7f5YGAWXWVyCnxofw4SztlR4kx2YVLrIMTmYZpqVifcq6QuaEs2FCMTcWMoyodTTZ7nnjqJU0TITLEpEm3PkMIZcY3-ybL0zIQeeiswBkpGt63QFgfEUUKx7apC-c62eKdFFmiAIA7NM6_3g/s1500/_ARJ8750.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGkCNZ7B34KQBO5Hpk2mRT4VJtQfUDoQfdeFq9fxCtpp7f5YGAWXWVyCnxofw4SztlR4kx2YVLrIMTmYZpqVifcq6QuaEs2FCMTcWMoyodTTZ7nnjqJU0TITLEpEm3PkMIZcY3-ybL0zIQeeiswBkpGt63QFgfEUUKx7apC-c62eKdFFmiAIA7NM6_3g/w640-h426/_ARJ8750.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>After enjoying the beauty of the mountains, it was time for us to hit the track soon. </span></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYk1-MR0i9-y56_kIs0gKpRGRqFF5OYwFe0OUi9B7FA4ZTLj4nOu-16oGE5NhJg1NpPna21H4KhguTrivPPSNj6hYQlLeqr_1x9T_DT8Xg9KxEigJbfMt27FZAxi77uBUW6rmdy48UD0YCECDQfJQJ-3dyZP3w-tguJr_d8rian7p1WSvZDioAjVNcaQ/s1500/_ARJ8753.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="1500" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYk1-MR0i9-y56_kIs0gKpRGRqFF5OYwFe0OUi9B7FA4ZTLj4nOu-16oGE5NhJg1NpPna21H4KhguTrivPPSNj6hYQlLeqr_1x9T_DT8Xg9KxEigJbfMt27FZAxi77uBUW6rmdy48UD0YCECDQfJQJ-3dyZP3w-tguJr_d8rian7p1WSvZDioAjVNcaQ/w640-h412/_ARJ8753.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The ascent is gradual from here onwards and you get to see the neighbouring hills in a close vicinity. The houses start to appear smaller and smaller once you start ascending.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmY5xSm1d1h7oE04EVKdJG1kv3pV79wfUZfrMsVXC8lrpjA-Bvqh-HpkPM_7X0gAdf-AH4XCrduDbdzOktifz7IBLAXuJ6O4Kg0FtjUIkGcHoXvOLop4RokJvFZzeHO79v-kjK7gktAFFdgvdFPXk_opnDy9Looql8Gtdj3I1uRi32RC21FbReqrkYZQ/s1500/_ARJ8760.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="839" data-original-width="1500" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmY5xSm1d1h7oE04EVKdJG1kv3pV79wfUZfrMsVXC8lrpjA-Bvqh-HpkPM_7X0gAdf-AH4XCrduDbdzOktifz7IBLAXuJ6O4Kg0FtjUIkGcHoXvOLop4RokJvFZzeHO79v-kjK7gktAFFdgvdFPXk_opnDy9Looql8Gtdj3I1uRi32RC21FbReqrkYZQ/w640-h358/_ARJ8760.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The Light plays hide and seek with every passing minute, and this drama is a spectacle in itself. </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicn0Y324s9GJj-rfxPFnpPu5m-RsdFgWzXiDaQbatvk-an-3mYKOpbOtN8TKHr_AJzJtUfKXRAFlb0bdX7Ed_vhxOb_j1WeC8h2T9xLPmQqjR0xBk5QRGfaV0yLo287fX4vPE-BdEEkoGw1K-MvWJXNTyYgBXhencSXN88OY4I5lB71fYKyhpu9RzO2g/s1500/_ARJ8769.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1500" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicn0Y324s9GJj-rfxPFnpPu5m-RsdFgWzXiDaQbatvk-an-3mYKOpbOtN8TKHr_AJzJtUfKXRAFlb0bdX7Ed_vhxOb_j1WeC8h2T9xLPmQqjR0xBk5QRGfaV0yLo287fX4vPE-BdEEkoGw1K-MvWJXNTyYgBXhencSXN88OY4I5lB71fYKyhpu9RzO2g/w640-h322/_ARJ8769.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Play of Light on the mountain ridge<br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">We now enter back to the forest through a small patch of grassland which makes way for our next pitstop (a small waterfall). This place is great to relax and rejuvenate ourselves. </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhe6KgsD_k_JRiOrSzHurVD9ZBeQBzLq2VW6kJiO1EGXWDhNyTxpilHZhtj4Uy2xjiStUuYaj5y3NFa_fQBufomYq4xOx02cn0Fqu5krL09wtynAb8AcVAuDozSv5LxQTLZtXrDVtf1DwrvRIcuUo8X1gc9-hDES6CEbCDt-whKMPxs6C6szwSLy75w/s1500/_ARJ8816.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1363" data-original-width="1500" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhe6KgsD_k_JRiOrSzHurVD9ZBeQBzLq2VW6kJiO1EGXWDhNyTxpilHZhtj4Uy2xjiStUuYaj5y3NFa_fQBufomYq4xOx02cn0Fqu5krL09wtynAb8AcVAuDozSv5LxQTLZtXrDVtf1DwrvRIcuUo8X1gc9-hDES6CEbCDt-whKMPxs6C6szwSLy75w/w640-h582/_ARJ8816.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>Many of our teammates were eager to take a dip in this waterfall. However owing to stricter timelines, we made a promise to ourselves that we enjoy in the waterfall while returning. This decision helped us gain more time to trek and enjoy the summit.</span></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSbHKevOCmUNAlsOJSnwoAOp2Jr9YUiMUj1OGuEFHhJerimf7kyJ1QC45Ynfj7PNxkyG2mpeFhHZVyBGwkq2tqWNTlrTQy7Os-COsz3HOeYFOoijYR3JqBFaJKYjCr7LIbGio0SBWWPC8LrQv1OWZM6Awj599JHPdpnXAqemTj_Zw-82PeCGzCFhjA4g/s1500/_ARJ8827-Pano.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="1500" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSbHKevOCmUNAlsOJSnwoAOp2Jr9YUiMUj1OGuEFHhJerimf7kyJ1QC45Ynfj7PNxkyG2mpeFhHZVyBGwkq2tqWNTlrTQy7Os-COsz3HOeYFOoijYR3JqBFaJKYjCr7LIbGio0SBWWPC8LrQv1OWZM6Awj599JHPdpnXAqemTj_Zw-82PeCGzCFhjA4g/w640-h302/_ARJ8827-Pano.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>As I said earlier, the play of hide and seek between Sholas & Grasslands and the Lights & Shadows, makes this trek more enjoyable.</span></span><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">After ascending to the top of the current hill, we now start to descend to the other side of the hill. </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQFC-0Na8IkGUuBWcfLDPJGYxYogrAWJ1NLFNkhkYGbmXOP6QYbFp971rpWf5yJbEFwmCI1M43zscAOJjVw2JP9mICUwsilC__CDAWicq_eaG4F51e0gQXIPLbiOikleVqQPQTJ5ver9YpBf3RrOrztAy0JYROlvoeP1X5Dpgg7ub3d2s44efGdKGKw/s1500/_ARJ8844.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1500" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQFC-0Na8IkGUuBWcfLDPJGYxYogrAWJ1NLFNkhkYGbmXOP6QYbFp971rpWf5yJbEFwmCI1M43zscAOJjVw2JP9mICUwsilC__CDAWicq_eaG4F51e0gQXIPLbiOikleVqQPQTJ5ver9YpBf3RrOrztAy0JYROlvoeP1X5Dpgg7ub3d2s44efGdKGKw/w640-h414/_ARJ8844.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Descending means, we are now entering back to the Shola forests. Didn't I tell you? ... That's the fun part of this trek</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_511TFTUhkHXUi0ogUOb8gU1quK904pHLujRgpdDPMMVasp_WvEwk5qOOlUayysicTtO0U00pP_7wHguO2UUgcZXej-KIrVDUo7cwYs_WBMVnCaddW6nmrz99FytNSdjgTRXnVBXYSkw9QIhqn_VxiaOjVzkfQdEi6SJAF4YvFGIgOZPvPbi8X62h2g/s1500/_ARJ8857.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="862" data-original-width="1500" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_511TFTUhkHXUi0ogUOb8gU1quK904pHLujRgpdDPMMVasp_WvEwk5qOOlUayysicTtO0U00pP_7wHguO2UUgcZXej-KIrVDUo7cwYs_WBMVnCaddW6nmrz99FytNSdjgTRXnVBXYSkw9QIhqn_VxiaOjVzkfQdEi6SJAF4YvFGIgOZPvPbi8X62h2g/w640-h368/_ARJ8857.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Can you see the trek path in the above image? That's where we have to climb...</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> Netravathi peak is beyond these hills and cannot be seen from here yet.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5zTigYKns9Gj0g3p16Ou8WtVTzBZ2lk-HQW6ZL3xJl6jX-0MMxhvg516Y1ear5Yz_y9CwhPw3P1AX5S1AGew-py7W934WUtzyrYNh3mrFu3yvC2yRQC0VzIiSFv1uxooZhqn2p-OUNm2iJysK8sYARtN3ZI5si6dxewnLYwR-jJHopgG9TjNL793cA/s1500/_ARJ8861.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="1500" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5zTigYKns9Gj0g3p16Ou8WtVTzBZ2lk-HQW6ZL3xJl6jX-0MMxhvg516Y1ear5Yz_y9CwhPw3P1AX5S1AGew-py7W934WUtzyrYNh3mrFu3yvC2yRQC0VzIiSFv1uxooZhqn2p-OUNm2iJysK8sYARtN3ZI5si6dxewnLYwR-jJHopgG9TjNL793cA/w640-h306/_ARJ8861.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9jXWrciUDxdtXu0osx-6nGGQTM2OUtad-VQkno5-vV_MKxMZIaLfAialdgUeTdKvWpbtoEKPX-vcnMJQ_D7Eq58iEXv2DoqqVprrCMg00_6skI118gKeTcasa80vZ3NWQoTToITI1iWl5_glFdK9byvbBXtteIqnx9d41r2hzcESsQ-aOhrsERRXKA/s1500/_ARJ8864.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="962" data-original-width="1500" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9jXWrciUDxdtXu0osx-6nGGQTM2OUtad-VQkno5-vV_MKxMZIaLfAialdgUeTdKvWpbtoEKPX-vcnMJQ_D7Eq58iEXv2DoqqVprrCMg00_6skI118gKeTcasa80vZ3NWQoTToITI1iWl5_glFdK9byvbBXtteIqnx9d41r2hzcESsQ-aOhrsERRXKA/w640-h410/_ARJ8864.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Descending trekkers</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>In about 20 minutes from this point, you will arrive at a small stream which is a rivulet of Netravathi river itself. This was our next pitstop...</span></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_IRhYqwIcp_L5GD_bahtptZFH-FmL9VBPrdNE58o_dH96OOCRGr7H2LAE41sBzthxIe5LikU_j-hftp8_3h6v_IRr6JLI86aneeuRLAjeDQzVU4REIACOn_uip7VJrtcFqxVHxyD5g-JTrdFWk0xsDRqcstp3OsVizoECVWzggTI16jc9JTzW-L6DA/s1500/_DSC1994.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="929" data-original-width="1500" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_IRhYqwIcp_L5GD_bahtptZFH-FmL9VBPrdNE58o_dH96OOCRGr7H2LAE41sBzthxIe5LikU_j-hftp8_3h6v_IRr6JLI86aneeuRLAjeDQzVU4REIACOn_uip7VJrtcFqxVHxyD5g-JTrdFWk0xsDRqcstp3OsVizoECVWzggTI16jc9JTzW-L6DA/w640-h396/_DSC1994.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>This is where you can refresh yourself, fill water bottles and resume the trek. It is actually a breather which is seldom seen in many treks. A good water source makes the trek extremely rewarding.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Just while we were relaxing on the rocks, our teammate Prajna spotted a snake. To my dismay, it was a cat snake.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lGTDcfx7ioxgOlX8gMEdczoeop-rNw7_Q6AEg3WhifdMeMzYgy6svSLFQrQAK0TcLkg1bylkW88ZEkoYBTq5o1ayltPNkNeb5LFYCOF9-zSQp3WoDoY0qGPAUYS-buY3UGFrI7aiS0u1Tr52roh8wm92cZ_EHdo3uwJ2T946Wc5Qcu_-BwMF6IIw8g/s1500/Cat%20snake%20copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1500" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lGTDcfx7ioxgOlX8gMEdczoeop-rNw7_Q6AEg3WhifdMeMzYgy6svSLFQrQAK0TcLkg1bylkW88ZEkoYBTq5o1ayltPNkNeb5LFYCOF9-zSQp3WoDoY0qGPAUYS-buY3UGFrI7aiS0u1Tr52roh8wm92cZ_EHdo3uwJ2T946Wc5Qcu_-BwMF6IIw8g/w640-h410/Cat%20snake%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></span><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">This path can be very tricky to cross during monsoons as the water might be gushing and rocks will be slippery. It is advised to go in groups during this time. It is also very challenging to not get your shoes soaked in water atleast once. I actually removed my shoes, crossed the water in bare foot and then wore the shoe again. </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">From here onwards, it is a constant steep ascent. You will have to cross two such hills before you actually start hiking towards the Netravathi peak.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWp5NyYDYF-yEg5b4-4ZSEj7Gh7eOeDjZmlKga6XAH_N-nUX_njMRLce3NaqE4669qLuAsfu5KjBSElHuho2YqiQnT7Vsks53EbkA8cGxAfcipJcGQ5NwaTcF-rbmg-MHsNxoeUX9Ne0wp7H9aA4dbyafTbv0KG1yVfIvvPUuAWm2T2PncZk9mkADhJw/s1500/_ARJ8854.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="1500" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWp5NyYDYF-yEg5b4-4ZSEj7Gh7eOeDjZmlKga6XAH_N-nUX_njMRLce3NaqE4669qLuAsfu5KjBSElHuho2YqiQnT7Vsks53EbkA8cGxAfcipJcGQ5NwaTcF-rbmg-MHsNxoeUX9Ne0wp7H9aA4dbyafTbv0KG1yVfIvvPUuAWm2T2PncZk9mkADhJw/w640-h336/_ARJ8854.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>One has to follow the trail as seen in the above image. Two hills beyond this point is where Netravathi peak resides.</span></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">As you can see, it's a constant ascent and most of the trekking time is consumed on this trail.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-WfjelhpQB_d8FswhzfNJSnYpgq7dB-T4EsJH9_JqxBiYYH7MUDBsOFZ4w6UCjRNG5l1VEjzj2qkU4V7pGYkID-wqO4J33D79GkwVTOY6JAMqQZKdvwjI2-MPAxYgwO5aMKy3JHW9vSZpvzwlFISlVfXsTdlLHZJa9UFbEbkMX9f92_cHeKHLd2nqg/s1500/_ARJ8974.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="994" data-original-width="1500" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-WfjelhpQB_d8FswhzfNJSnYpgq7dB-T4EsJH9_JqxBiYYH7MUDBsOFZ4w6UCjRNG5l1VEjzj2qkU4V7pGYkID-wqO4J33D79GkwVTOY6JAMqQZKdvwjI2-MPAxYgwO5aMKy3JHW9vSZpvzwlFISlVfXsTdlLHZJa9UFbEbkMX9f92_cHeKHLd2nqg/w640-h424/_ARJ8974.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">All of us screamed with joy on reaching the top of the hill after all the gasping and panting. This joy vanished in a second when Surendra, our guide told us that Netravathi peak is still far away and cannot be seen from here yet. </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Most of us sat there itself, and took deep breaths before we continued the journey.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGjuR7dxk3Ktj8_0L6X4hUUcaKJj_p9hTNuhnsa93yI4BwSRaOEtewHZ9bUOfLzNS47-5XsDNQgxomqPcZ1ZUSitUnOy3d-Faix46VOSLTe4m4Bv2FTB0JVgKjBphWQ9Slb8eZnsZYAWr63fmvxFX-B2ntNH24pB3s6_q0kjq2IuTKh0yl9-ArBmVFg/s1500/_ARJ8981.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGjuR7dxk3Ktj8_0L6X4hUUcaKJj_p9hTNuhnsa93yI4BwSRaOEtewHZ9bUOfLzNS47-5XsDNQgxomqPcZ1ZUSitUnOy3d-Faix46VOSLTe4m4Bv2FTB0JVgKjBphWQ9Slb8eZnsZYAWr63fmvxFX-B2ntNH24pB3s6_q0kjq2IuTKh0yl9-ArBmVFg/w640-h426/_ARJ8981.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We were told that the place where we were standing was in Chikmagalur district, and the region behind the hill (in the above image) falls under Dakshina Kannada district. Nature is so amazing isn't it ...</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The final stretch was quite steep and filled with tall grass. This made the trail barely visible. </span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">By around 12.30 PM , we made it to the top of the Netravathi peak and our happiness knew no bounds. It was extremely ecstatic as we all jumped with joy.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsq2MuBCXLXpixZ6uzvkd8Ycy2mKexfpC5teNKzR0r-fUmRPzEjGILGxdTKETLOJaJ-n5bAgcMqBtqzfV_ATZ5UKblCZELOvqssr9MJjanD92sPHCqPjPi76Kif_A2PBrB63YxQHTZ8h_NEfXHddj3TzugqtJbSKg6IY1NKgnU0tF9VClt0CjaLfhtQ/s1500/_ARJ9006-Pano.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="622" data-original-width="1500" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsq2MuBCXLXpixZ6uzvkd8Ycy2mKexfpC5teNKzR0r-fUmRPzEjGILGxdTKETLOJaJ-n5bAgcMqBtqzfV_ATZ5UKblCZELOvqssr9MJjanD92sPHCqPjPi76Kif_A2PBrB63YxQHTZ8h_NEfXHddj3TzugqtJbSKg6IY1NKgnU0tF9VClt0CjaLfhtQ/w640-h266/_ARJ9006-Pano.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We stayed at the peak for quite sometime, and also savoured the delicious lunch at the peak itself. The packed lunch consisted of lip smacking Puliyogre , chips , pudina juice etc., and what a place it was to enjoy the food. </span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciu_h1_48QaBxjSdwCwq5p29C1Ac4n_mz_akTM1uOZiXS4EaxyXJ_qRLXkh3wHyRJT7Hbq-kszye_xZpmLh7TEluMvmYOk-q2Qu-DaqqNJg_YptX6Lvt2biiMP_DIx9Kv0gslunxB7TVTxhPCpF5wxlVkPlpCIVj_v86XEIDdaHl9Tkx9cusZjsOPcQ/s1500/_DSC2024-Edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciu_h1_48QaBxjSdwCwq5p29C1Ac4n_mz_akTM1uOZiXS4EaxyXJ_qRLXkh3wHyRJT7Hbq-kszye_xZpmLh7TEluMvmYOk-q2Qu-DaqqNJg_YptX6Lvt2biiMP_DIx9Kv0gslunxB7TVTxhPCpF5wxlVkPlpCIVj_v86XEIDdaHl9Tkx9cusZjsOPcQ/w640-h426/_DSC2024-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Some of them rested , while some of them were busy clicking photographs. The speed of the clouds made me to shoot timelapse videos which can be seen below.<br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xtcfXq6TMrQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="xtcfXq6TMrQ"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span>Netravathi peak offers a 360 degree view of the stunning valleys and vistas all around. One can actually spot many scenic locations from here. I have tried to name some of them below :</span> </span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>1) Gadai kallu : </b></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">This place is also called as Jamalabad and there is a well known trek to this hill. Gadai kallu can be seen exactly in front of you upon reaching the Netravathi peak</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpg8trYPnFJuLLbC0d3wox44DSHJjVygoeeqDGV3hVpTjaKtzdpzxUBv9ep8gzsSXdhEcv16lddEvaFmhb6cNf7ARkFG0C19y_BoEAjS3Ju7iPdYTxJiLe1kUzjNpq53ypK8sGzTB3WYBYfZeIa1uV0T-iuNAVRyUMWJWQwzueKV4Cg4G_Ckkm2hXbsQ/s1500/Gadayikallu%20view.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="829" data-original-width="1500" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpg8trYPnFJuLLbC0d3wox44DSHJjVygoeeqDGV3hVpTjaKtzdpzxUBv9ep8gzsSXdhEcv16lddEvaFmhb6cNf7ARkFG0C19y_BoEAjS3Ju7iPdYTxJiLe1kUzjNpq53ypK8sGzTB3WYBYfZeIa1uV0T-iuNAVRyUMWJWQwzueKV4Cg4G_Ckkm2hXbsQ/w640-h354/Gadayikallu%20view.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><p style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>2) Netravathi river valley : </b></span></p><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">When you turn towards your left , you can see the Netravathi river flowing in all its charm in the valley down below. The course of the river can be seen on a clear day.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4Ipmphcf5CS-3W8A-4-BJBg41aIwTjC7LxOBFTo04w8lBylYuPUgaISb1N-oTTqcGdwzpGCZlwi05FONYnt3ixmIsJF03nOzueWsgfsziKg8IDLut0dv4Fm7tYB7d5kxGQ5qkuVb-0IUpoTmpdn-izFHnX-dqk9q2EKYSh6USnvI_0CfXfuiMrISCg/s1500/Netravathi%20river%20view%20view.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4Ipmphcf5CS-3W8A-4-BJBg41aIwTjC7LxOBFTo04w8lBylYuPUgaISb1N-oTTqcGdwzpGCZlwi05FONYnt3ixmIsJF03nOzueWsgfsziKg8IDLut0dv4Fm7tYB7d5kxGQ5qkuVb-0IUpoTmpdn-izFHnX-dqk9q2EKYSh6USnvI_0CfXfuiMrISCg/w640-h426/Netravathi%20river%20view%20view.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><p style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>3) Other well known peaks :</b></span></p><h4 style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></h4><div style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">You can also see the mighty Kudremukha peak standing tall in the distance. The other prominent ones in the region are Attibheri, Kallusanka and Kumbhalakhana which can also be seen from Netravathi peak.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1G7HRt0XkZU7LbYU-3LotvS6xNOToBk8A3LCi3NyNPpO_IIArS5-gMa3wbUfjZDXvd30C80pxV0GtsxMHOa8QrW-ncTCsItCP7s1HBlXQkjrdwDEwJD73ZLpUGRwiB8FbYkt0sizEZTA0a4lLFnWKnxpFpcVSvkG090tmqO1y-AG2nLV695pfrXfIHA/s1500/Panoramic%20view.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="1500" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1G7HRt0XkZU7LbYU-3LotvS6xNOToBk8A3LCi3NyNPpO_IIArS5-gMa3wbUfjZDXvd30C80pxV0GtsxMHOa8QrW-ncTCsItCP7s1HBlXQkjrdwDEwJD73ZLpUGRwiB8FbYkt0sizEZTA0a4lLFnWKnxpFpcVSvkG090tmqO1y-AG2nLV695pfrXfIHA/w640-h290/Panoramic%20view.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The team :</span></h3></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7VSAmoKbGzlfSpFh1y_6Jp0MKIDtd4cmtRMI8rVOIu7fKMbyHwCyUj7Ay-1dDutn7VkvwNLdDgl-rPqFwIF5ybm2aUP1-Kz8jL82-_o1FL6JgzbhnNq3Ul5moJiPizjtYb63iVj8SnKmgh8xR2Qctxs5j1Q9_wrGZKj5m2Hnnqf2mWTog6NBCADb-g/s1500/_ARJ9076.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7VSAmoKbGzlfSpFh1y_6Jp0MKIDtd4cmtRMI8rVOIu7fKMbyHwCyUj7Ay-1dDutn7VkvwNLdDgl-rPqFwIF5ybm2aUP1-Kz8jL82-_o1FL6JgzbhnNq3Ul5moJiPizjtYb63iVj8SnKmgh8xR2Qctxs5j1Q9_wrGZKj5m2Hnnqf2mWTog6NBCADb-g/w640-h426/_ARJ9076.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">From L to R : Myself, Vishwanath, Prajna , Meghana , Bhargav and Mrs. Shylaja</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>Mrs. Shylaja was always leading from the front and her speed was unmatchable. I actually thought that she may be around 40 years, but when we found out that she was 60, we were awestruck. She is working as a principal in a very reputed school and has also travelled many countries. She has also completed many Himalayan treks </span>and was a true inspiration for all of us !</span></div><div><p></p><p></p></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-Ru-tgVDEhvU0k9Fv-TcS5xjjHD-9WHooGWCWLyfkGQSEkHxABHlsi86WQ-cVR7DkVpX7905C4v0AFl3zObAeTm282UhZHTiqohs-CWMRG1tVUBkw_8TVlQ2fQ0OzHGA-_Ul7WJNMxg2U_yNA2aaB7v2gZ7TfDnF8wITXoFSiV2fyUd40Bpi9yIBwg/s1500/_ARJ9100-Edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="953" data-original-width="1500" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-Ru-tgVDEhvU0k9Fv-TcS5xjjHD-9WHooGWCWLyfkGQSEkHxABHlsi86WQ-cVR7DkVpX7905C4v0AFl3zObAeTm282UhZHTiqohs-CWMRG1tVUBkw_8TVlQ2fQ0OzHGA-_Ul7WJNMxg2U_yNA2aaB7v2gZ7TfDnF8wITXoFSiV2fyUd40Bpi9yIBwg/w640-h406/_ARJ9100-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I have been on multiple treks in the Western Ghats, but I rate this as my most favorite trek. The beauty of this trek starts right from the base camp until you reach the summit.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR45nnXz5CA0AbBkEK-p3q-wMBjNWf8Xl-W0fJIDpmd9DqLOEA5WNRE0gg1jEuX5wZ2rJ0fQn8xIWoe5aJbkxLsZmzLkPvOkOkao8c8XlufgpymwrCg7WaeZtDRvi2xbETtgGFDCnuL6HUljQIJeHzzeiHRIRzakuxg5_Lm9CdxCwOkecYbNoijafALw/s1500/_ARJ9102-Edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR45nnXz5CA0AbBkEK-p3q-wMBjNWf8Xl-W0fJIDpmd9DqLOEA5WNRE0gg1jEuX5wZ2rJ0fQn8xIWoe5aJbkxLsZmzLkPvOkOkao8c8XlufgpymwrCg7WaeZtDRvi2xbETtgGFDCnuL6HUljQIJeHzzeiHRIRzakuxg5_Lm9CdxCwOkecYbNoijafALw/w640-h427/_ARJ9102-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">It has beautiful undulating meadows of grasslands complemented by thick evergreen Shola forests. There are varied Flora and Fauna in this bio-diversity hotspot.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXptJ9vc0TrCZfKo7TKhHeDrEvxO3Znq35J2xs8TQao4SuW6CjUarUtUDhiAWmY3rUOQjyfgroH5MLoInR6X9DBQ8W0EoTAF7TwIws3PBDgwZ87yORm0PR4vUiT-JhxNtPYTRaiMD3dSDDPxCRkrLCV9usi2OxqK2MxRUYAhWB1Ye1ZhRVEEateWFHow/s1500/_ARJ9104-Edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1500" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXptJ9vc0TrCZfKo7TKhHeDrEvxO3Znq35J2xs8TQao4SuW6CjUarUtUDhiAWmY3rUOQjyfgroH5MLoInR6X9DBQ8W0EoTAF7TwIws3PBDgwZ87yORm0PR4vUiT-JhxNtPYTRaiMD3dSDDPxCRkrLCV9usi2OxqK2MxRUYAhWB1Ye1ZhRVEEateWFHow/w640-h292/_ARJ9104-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>I generally prefer to trek post monsoons, just for the greenery. However, in this trek I realised the importance of other colors too. Since it was the onset of winter, the green grass had slowly started to turn golden brown. The myriad hues of Greens , Yellows , Goldens and Reds made the place nothing but Heaven in all its glory.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">After staying at the peak for almost an hour, we started to descend with no intention to go back at all. The calm surroundings made us to forget the outer world for a short while.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX63FAPeF904Yvol6TttjrNgNAjU0WWNSl3llOHPd3MGeubytsHcCzy0tmF44Qyvw_thJeALmDHh0jtMVb97lpjYd3EEbHoK8hSvn8nhnSUuWIYZJ0z3htllQdyQkwbdJ_-OhXO1-Z9pMY1XZrb9yP8XCYBQswYcuIaQnROswfkMktBndxioCu_-ZVGA/s1500/_ARJ9035.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="1500" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX63FAPeF904Yvol6TttjrNgNAjU0WWNSl3llOHPd3MGeubytsHcCzy0tmF44Qyvw_thJeALmDHh0jtMVb97lpjYd3EEbHoK8hSvn8nhnSUuWIYZJ0z3htllQdyQkwbdJ_-OhXO1-Z9pMY1XZrb9yP8XCYBQswYcuIaQnROswfkMktBndxioCu_-ZVGA/w640-h388/_ARJ9035.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>The descent was pretty easy, with gradual slopes descending to the valley down below. It was more of a straight walk with undulations here and there. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-ECGZ3AfDAP8gePq-JXLuTZU5-ViSfQIC2QoMzBkTlAnac6zNAoQkTEmLUEoB1sZU11-4vjBFCVlHJ2NVTtronIdsyVZAiK9s3uxTmaPvAktxr77FSYB8HcNQpc0wX6C9ceFctAT358i0D0eO8_GQp7eLuMGpRKGx1VKqhxr8rM0BBPVOElXs-kpOA/w640-h426/_ARJ9135.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Up close and personal with the Kudremukha peak<br /><br /></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span></span></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYk5Bn5XS1ifUmYc5-FC2CWIy1yREFqzFrVbepX5X-pyy7I-DeMFqNgs9I10Lf6JzKCg9pzLm2P_cOJTwfvUkqLrX9AjkZFLyJgmWJdS7Vyw2vUaf-6LE6bRnbznHwlnhIe4vfHL8WVNxrsDLaZlszFUpPgUgWLzqbip-wcv4yzYLmObBqvzZaQEotg/s1500/_ARJ9191.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYk5Bn5XS1ifUmYc5-FC2CWIy1yREFqzFrVbepX5X-pyy7I-DeMFqNgs9I10Lf6JzKCg9pzLm2P_cOJTwfvUkqLrX9AjkZFLyJgmWJdS7Vyw2vUaf-6LE6bRnbznHwlnhIe4vfHL8WVNxrsDLaZlszFUpPgUgWLzqbip-wcv4yzYLmObBqvzZaQEotg/w640-h426/_ARJ9191.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Iris<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">During the descent, I spotted this lovely flower and mistook it to be the endemic 'Neela Kurinji', and later Vishwanath clarified it as Iris.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RF7qNGhluYc3EeCimhcKoZiPfL-NfWNaRiIIIcTszMbSWylb0nE8lwu3sJcGOmUqsCep5rmZen83NvA7GrUxGgbJvXQnFV2AoG_G-iX5z7OA1s7s6AK3BtFeXaB9_nXNX2TcO0-m1EmJy-99zhKdrGDgAiRWqape918dgECP9tGhJ0XDybFpY1A5BQ/s1500/_ARJ9055.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RF7qNGhluYc3EeCimhcKoZiPfL-NfWNaRiIIIcTszMbSWylb0nE8lwu3sJcGOmUqsCep5rmZen83NvA7GrUxGgbJvXQnFV2AoG_G-iX5z7OA1s7s6AK3BtFeXaB9_nXNX2TcO0-m1EmJy-99zhKdrGDgAiRWqape918dgECP9tGhJ0XDybFpY1A5BQ/w640-h426/_ARJ9055.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">During landscape photography, it is not always the wide angle that matters. Even a telephoto lens would help you create wonders.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FMEBUK0At-FeBZJS7AqeBMxt9MlR3ZamBfZzGwCV0q8GxhRC9mGBOllZgWR0QGdigVaF3qcvFU-hNTWf4e5aKfHncfOXECejoxB3UVsjE8CjBLgULtEEaAdkduxRzYGvrpgKDg-aodIKl1TvOHMdyGD_P82Mpg2sYsH7T-7eH8lRUwGwM2N4Is69cQ/s1500/_ARJ9085.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1088" data-original-width="1500" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FMEBUK0At-FeBZJS7AqeBMxt9MlR3ZamBfZzGwCV0q8GxhRC9mGBOllZgWR0QGdigVaF3qcvFU-hNTWf4e5aKfHncfOXECejoxB3UVsjE8CjBLgULtEEaAdkduxRzYGvrpgKDg-aodIKl1TvOHMdyGD_P82Mpg2sYsH7T-7eH8lRUwGwM2N4Is69cQ/w640-h464/_ARJ9085.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">When Kudremukha peak starts to fade away, that means you are descending on the right trail</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilPxwyiauVVFSwHG3JljPiQlqSz1siCCYP50UUPuutkZSnK84dYDNZ6kY5juBXqZGPmwpgtKnvwBovhdF9zIRDKTkj-IA4Y9cTOTUr0jwKXDx9jmYv5lMHk4eZ3Z4FKthwXMiyH2hAcdT_znGwzqlsOGeGy0vckFt1t1T8hfPfG9xkOEwHjpeXQfjKDQ/s1500/_ARJ9132.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="932" data-original-width="1500" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilPxwyiauVVFSwHG3JljPiQlqSz1siCCYP50UUPuutkZSnK84dYDNZ6kY5juBXqZGPmwpgtKnvwBovhdF9zIRDKTkj-IA4Y9cTOTUr0jwKXDx9jmYv5lMHk4eZ3Z4FKthwXMiyH2hAcdT_znGwzqlsOGeGy0vckFt1t1T8hfPfG9xkOEwHjpeXQfjKDQ/w640-h398/_ARJ9132.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">It was around 2 PM when we started to climb down the mountain, the clouds had started to congregate by then.<br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Keeping the promise that the team had earlier made, we all started to descend as quickly as possible. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhza7nZ2u9y7vhzR_Dg5Wiw9sc8me0G8G3b-qyj2XUcMy-18NGo4FRBv0I4yLw2AhCoFKLGCi1y_AVQwmQPleFU5In-fwyJhK9vEyHXbuDdDxFg8quyLI43q9VJiEOswUKbdRJDnJAIkw56eJygEehUzuag_7ue9nQ85jzmGkrxnJbdyslm5hdd_syjw/s1500/_ARJ9166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhza7nZ2u9y7vhzR_Dg5Wiw9sc8me0G8G3b-qyj2XUcMy-18NGo4FRBv0I4yLw2AhCoFKLGCi1y_AVQwmQPleFU5In-fwyJhK9vEyHXbuDdDxFg8quyLI43q9VJiEOswUKbdRJDnJAIkw56eJygEehUzuag_7ue9nQ85jzmGkrxnJbdyslm5hdd_syjw/w640-h426/_ARJ9166.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>As you can see in the above image, Shylaja ma'am was well ahead of us even during the descent. The couple-duo and myself kept on descending slowly by capturing everything that we could see.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigaBCaYKFdobVWbwc_sgSO_lifWEJXrs2rym-_5dBRXchLLeWJnyF1MNO1NCUTpEIt1QqTBi95GJyZXvVWK6vU-pdS5h5bF-ineW3HUxp9UtBO7oUUXLnLEbhW7paHNNdMx8VdaNYcXMyX84q2UmKinGXXw3ghACTIxhpt3SZTl4UmcUO2Ps8nza16aQ/s1500/_ARJ9148.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="1500" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigaBCaYKFdobVWbwc_sgSO_lifWEJXrs2rym-_5dBRXchLLeWJnyF1MNO1NCUTpEIt1QqTBi95GJyZXvVWK6vU-pdS5h5bF-ineW3HUxp9UtBO7oUUXLnLEbhW7paHNNdMx8VdaNYcXMyX84q2UmKinGXXw3ghACTIxhpt3SZTl4UmcUO2Ps8nza16aQ/w640-h420/_ARJ9148.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq10-d_BOgBego_icZWEoN-6_0nXWoO5_2XArZGC05L2BtMrwtzbtbmB_5scE4ocITy7Edg2idff4HfAv7Xi9708ozK7zFsao4lgxEoorHQHoGNImWrajtTKQppeTDMeVHwkEsidCt_o3StR5qQFNEv-vsgE3eDDSHdNxEqAc1IkySI1zGxO4gzt4kLw/s1500/_ARJ9149.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq10-d_BOgBego_icZWEoN-6_0nXWoO5_2XArZGC05L2BtMrwtzbtbmB_5scE4ocITy7Edg2idff4HfAv7Xi9708ozK7zFsao4lgxEoorHQHoGNImWrajtTKQppeTDMeVHwkEsidCt_o3StR5qQFNEv-vsgE3eDDSHdNxEqAc1IkySI1zGxO4gzt4kLw/w640-h426/_ARJ9149.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXUtzatQTMYQpG_pP9Lh9gVd4KzvROJwYOWmDrRNZP5IOPUBHDKkTL2L3CyqfO9p6cs6-3As5GzFBH0Mbedn-34ZEqyqGNuYUM0rzpzqTo46rCwJPfLpIWf_Nq9nWrMGWD3YuDgqSywn2QEzaWkdh4FIgqAd0606pGatTFsVQvn6dxTcyLTbsCESv9BA/s1500/_ARJ9152.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="975" data-original-width="1500" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXUtzatQTMYQpG_pP9Lh9gVd4KzvROJwYOWmDrRNZP5IOPUBHDKkTL2L3CyqfO9p6cs6-3As5GzFBH0Mbedn-34ZEqyqGNuYUM0rzpzqTo46rCwJPfLpIWf_Nq9nWrMGWD3YuDgqSywn2QEzaWkdh4FIgqAd0606pGatTFsVQvn6dxTcyLTbsCESv9BA/w640-h416/_ARJ9152.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span><br />Small patches of grasslands were lit while the other patches were in shadows. This made the whole scene a lot more dramatic. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVBdMev51JzE3OFA9U77caw9E194MwQVR51mqVHrZWDfwMKlwZEIpAAXDAwm2ehxYEgKro3uXr1Xld_Vyi9Gm6QenWVYOljnghcyKzEQ48OrskH_6U8b0i3cL1WpwxHP7C46nhI-mhN-O8A2AmbxwOWwHmusmpPNLg9altlTFNGdDMQVP7UvDqEXuzQ/s1500/_ARJ9175-Edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1028" data-original-width="1500" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVBdMev51JzE3OFA9U77caw9E194MwQVR51mqVHrZWDfwMKlwZEIpAAXDAwm2ehxYEgKro3uXr1Xld_Vyi9Gm6QenWVYOljnghcyKzEQ48OrskH_6U8b0i3cL1WpwxHP7C46nhI-mhN-O8A2AmbxwOWwHmusmpPNLg9altlTFNGdDMQVP7UvDqEXuzQ/w640-h438/_ARJ9175-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPsaz1qZHUP1NRNJAIurs6weRxYeUVkXqTqfNZfLSSmv248Q74RnJSjVmaKrkPiuH6Y3ur0EYb6R4Y2nsrbCISOo4ZFpRWpINrQJyxvWvKQzY0j7sTFj6VRZstnBo6GMeJjl0FunvsUZ5UX2eSC3M__1GYjHO9vcOwg-q5FXrq2MhbrBAE0hY-ijjlYQ/s1500/_ARJ9217.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1500" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPsaz1qZHUP1NRNJAIurs6weRxYeUVkXqTqfNZfLSSmv248Q74RnJSjVmaKrkPiuH6Y3ur0EYb6R4Y2nsrbCISOo4ZFpRWpINrQJyxvWvKQzY0j7sTFj6VRZstnBo6GMeJjl0FunvsUZ5UX2eSC3M__1GYjHO9vcOwg-q5FXrq2MhbrBAE0hY-ijjlYQ/w640-h318/_ARJ9217.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><span style="color: #fff2cc;">I hope you would have understood by now, as to why this trek is super amazing.</span></i><span> </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">By around 4.30PM , we had almost reached the first waterfalls. The time taken to climb down was much quicker than expected, and we were able to spend sometime in the waterfalls. Though the weather was cold, we all took shower in the chilling waterfall.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYVXmXds_10OYmDv9HS4j1S9LHYga9AJnrdsehy3BCvsE-DzGD4UHKzN7WSc-_s6Vq2FANL_WQ-q54ZyWDCrU_TGvVaD4k2qWj-F6OHH6kxe25XEcXTHwlm4rWDo8To8k3KE8xbh6SPPfXreaUzABg45kR2XXF3TeIoGffRo3FQdfy7gOr9rXCwDl_-Q/s1500/Bath.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1500" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYVXmXds_10OYmDv9HS4j1S9LHYga9AJnrdsehy3BCvsE-DzGD4UHKzN7WSc-_s6Vq2FANL_WQ-q54ZyWDCrU_TGvVaD4k2qWj-F6OHH6kxe25XEcXTHwlm4rWDo8To8k3KE8xbh6SPPfXreaUzABg45kR2XXF3TeIoGffRo3FQdfy7gOr9rXCwDl_-Q/w640-h480/Bath.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We could see the sky turning Gold and light fading gradually. It was another 45 mins journey from here to the homestay. So, we started our trek back to the basecamp after an hour's play in the waterfall. I highly recommend this activity to trekkers visiting the peak, as its a highly energetic and refreshing activity. <span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><i>But, please do not spoil the nature by littering. If you are not a Nature Lover, then please stay back at your homes in the city.</i></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoBjEYx3Aj3IV9WF1aZzBk6_3rhkq8RtY2x9V2i2ZnbyeEP1368hyx6lOSZ8Ul1V3mU3g9wgkpF7cjLUaqmIgiH4qyst1A6U691JtxulynXV_k3iwnSRz2wwRmWbUPqmr7Ih9uXB1p5b0p3ffRgG3IlDhIdCoz6O33-NcCi-M2L1L77xOaGQ-T9RMOg/s1500/_ARJ9264-Pano-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="1500" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoBjEYx3Aj3IV9WF1aZzBk6_3rhkq8RtY2x9V2i2ZnbyeEP1368hyx6lOSZ8Ul1V3mU3g9wgkpF7cjLUaqmIgiH4qyst1A6U691JtxulynXV_k3iwnSRz2wwRmWbUPqmr7Ih9uXB1p5b0p3ffRgG3IlDhIdCoz6O33-NcCi-M2L1L77xOaGQ-T9RMOg/w640-h262/_ARJ9264-Pano-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">This was the last image for the day. Both the battery of my camera and my personal battery had drained by then. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCn4rYvDaj1zNpZh6EiHdtZ3ljgvnOkjGr5rd6JU7uuDN2m_hPBJjIlp95-gLNa1zVrNRWXQKJagSmwg1sFDqTIcDlTQH2UW76HoeBbIO2edloCyxIZL60wf-dPt_sgo5nDSkBgGxZd-vb43fIeg0fVqhZe4UDOcrtBd7DR4Xpo94547oCuYcOlj6xyg/s1500/_ARJ9242.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="974" data-original-width="1500" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCn4rYvDaj1zNpZh6EiHdtZ3ljgvnOkjGr5rd6JU7uuDN2m_hPBJjIlp95-gLNa1zVrNRWXQKJagSmwg1sFDqTIcDlTQH2UW76HoeBbIO2edloCyxIZL60wf-dPt_sgo5nDSkBgGxZd-vb43fIeg0fVqhZe4UDOcrtBd7DR4Xpo94547oCuYcOlj6xyg/w640-h416/_ARJ9242.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">We reached our homestay by around 6.30 PM and were welcomed by Hot onion pakodas with piping hot filter coffee. This was a super energy booster to all of us. </span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">This was then followed by sumptuous dinner, and we all hit the bed pretty early to earn a well deserved sleep.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><h3 style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">12th December, Sunday :</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I woke up early to shoot time-lapse of the rising sun. Prajna accompanied me to a small hillock nearby and I had set the camera in the right direction based on the composition and light direction. However, the clouds played a spoilsport and we couldn't see the sunrise at all.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8E9Gjjt9_YtskQyc7p-RIsb1dSdXieGCAZDoS_RqisJl2utl3BcnlnSyXaNoRVWPufWC4o2GbktzWX50JY1ZvkNdm7orajlnRlu9orQaRRiLZTcKdrQi0_H7EGoVDm3gFz2LL-yklI8Qx9PV_VJjNyiIMqrg41FPvtWBU2brkGdfeF5-DtdFQeWcgIQ/s1500/_ARJ9291.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8E9Gjjt9_YtskQyc7p-RIsb1dSdXieGCAZDoS_RqisJl2utl3BcnlnSyXaNoRVWPufWC4o2GbktzWX50JY1ZvkNdm7orajlnRlu9orQaRRiLZTcKdrQi0_H7EGoVDm3gFz2LL-yklI8Qx9PV_VJjNyiIMqrg41FPvtWBU2brkGdfeF5-DtdFQeWcgIQ/w640-h426/_ARJ9291.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span>After shooting timelapses (<a href="https://youtu.be/xtcfXq6TMrQ?t=46">https://youtu.be/xtcfXq6TMrQ?t=46</a>), we returned to the homestay for breakfast.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">By then, most of the group were awake and ready. The plan for the day was to visit Elneer falls and then go to Hornad temple for lunch. However, owing to some last minute changes we headed to Hornad temple directly. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We departed from the homestay by around 10AM with heavy hearts and promised ourselves that we shall come back again to reminisce our trek. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UwJBXErB_JllK5rUax2vYZzXuiwQP04vbPwe9KABpyh1qV59g-cCV9s8Fu24FpjjjA4vuIonT65qP64ej4VqUdb-Sd1XuaBO8XBw0wzQ4qYo39iSm7DcYxy_JYdffWP6t-Edjq3IUYRggk7JTvG10di2g8x6nh5c0QTotACQgTgA2p8FLJARcrLraw/s1500/camper.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="921" data-original-width="1500" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UwJBXErB_JllK5rUax2vYZzXuiwQP04vbPwe9KABpyh1qV59g-cCV9s8Fu24FpjjjA4vuIonT65qP64ej4VqUdb-Sd1XuaBO8XBw0wzQ4qYo39iSm7DcYxy_JYdffWP6t-Edjq3IUYRggk7JTvG10di2g8x6nh5c0QTotACQgTgA2p8FLJARcrLraw/w640-h392/camper.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The owner then dropped us back to Guthyadka village where our tempo was parked. This is when we realised how deadly the night drive was the previous day. This was truly an experience !!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">It was an hour's journey from here to Hornad. We reached the temple just before lunch time and had a wonderful darshan of Goddess Annapoorneshwari. This was then followed by mouthwatering lunch<span> served by the temple authorities.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We headed back towards Bangalore by around 2PM from Hornad. However, a quick break near the Bhadra river turned out to be a longer one as the child in each one of us was reluctant to go back.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTp4aL8QmNSn3DLheZ6CSHxLO_PnV_tL-ryZI-yWdvL2eJYSHn4r53E6gERL6OkNTZDfbkule0fUuCiBUdZZwNOWyHFxf6j3vsVOVkmbwcdiaJqAfOz7ogcUHNxXsziatmo9uWvdtQX0-9W2hGOBJYtLs-Gqq28y91OoyHlbH00rhLXv1ML6_2pbrEQw/s1500/_ARJ9348.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1097" data-original-width="1500" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTp4aL8QmNSn3DLheZ6CSHxLO_PnV_tL-ryZI-yWdvL2eJYSHn4r53E6gERL6OkNTZDfbkule0fUuCiBUdZZwNOWyHFxf6j3vsVOVkmbwcdiaJqAfOz7ogcUHNxXsziatmo9uWvdtQX0-9W2hGOBJYtLs-Gqq28y91OoyHlbH00rhLXv1ML6_2pbrEQw/w640-h468/_ARJ9348.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhzLHyDh_0Vje9v5Sy6aPAJH7MRn6ADQ2IusyagShdjp_FXZ1mbFtng3cr2RShfAekX6VlRkoaPeFpPlMn_gyx0tkug6ApIbAsE1xOzob179cNr5GOfd5cYbNls6s7VrSFTJKddIzKerY4iLD8L84iRUKbMN1oE0Knv4TyOV1iyCGRkto2Shgr_tBCw/s1500/_ARJ9373-Edit-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="991" data-original-width="1500" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhzLHyDh_0Vje9v5Sy6aPAJH7MRn6ADQ2IusyagShdjp_FXZ1mbFtng3cr2RShfAekX6VlRkoaPeFpPlMn_gyx0tkug6ApIbAsE1xOzob179cNr5GOfd5cYbNls6s7VrSFTJKddIzKerY4iLD8L84iRUKbMN1oE0Knv4TyOV1iyCGRkto2Shgr_tBCw/w640-h422/_ARJ9373-Edit-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />We reached Bangalore by 10 PM and bid a heartfelt goodbye to the entire team, hoping to meet again !!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">This was one of my most memorable treks till date, and I thoroughly enjoyed trekking with this team. Everyone was inspiring, and I learnt a lot from each one of them.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Netravathi Peak Trek Guide :</span></h4><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">1) <b>What's the best season for Netravathi trek ? </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">September to February is the best time to trek here.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I don't suggest trekking in monsoons as the weather can be extreme. If you still wish to trek during monsoons, then July-August would be good.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">2) <b>How to reach ? </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span>Samse is the starting point. Take any overnight bus from Bangalore to Kalasa and Samse is just a few kms from Kalasa</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">3) <b>Any accommodation ?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span>Summiters had arranged accommodation in an unknown homestay near Samse. However, I believe you get some homestays at Samse or Kalasa</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">4) <b>How long is the trek ?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We completed the trek in 9 hours (which included ascent, descent, lunch & breaks in between and bathing in waterfalls)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">5) <b>Where is the Netravathi Peak located ?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Netravathi peak is located in the Chikmagaluru district of Karnataka which is in pristine Western Ghats. We do not encounter the actual birth place of the Netravathi river in this trek, but I believe it takes birth somewhere near the peak</span></div><div><span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">6) <b>Do you suggest any tour operator for this trek?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I have trekked with Summiters on multiple occasions, and can vouch for them.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>Summiters </b>: <a href="https://summitersadventures.com/">https://summitersadventures.com/</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>Vishwanath : 9740360365</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>7) </i></span><b style="font-family: verdana;">Total trek distance :</b></div><div><b style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></b></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Netravathi peak trek is around 7-8 kms one way.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">8) </span><b style="font-family: verdana;">Trek difficulty :</b></div><div><b style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></b></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I consider this to be a moderately difficult trek. The final stretch is a bit exhausting.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">9) <b>Prior trekking experience :</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Not mandatory but recommended</span></div><div><span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: verdana;">I hope you liked reading this blog post and enjoyed the trek as much as we did. If you liked this post, then please leave a comment below. Also please share this among your friends, which will motivate me to write more of such stuffs and provide quality content to all of you.</span></div><div><span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: verdana;">You can also follow me on : </span></div><div><span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: verdana;"><b>Instagram</b> : <a href="https://www.instagram.com/arjun_haarith/">https://www.instagram.com/arjun_haarith/</a></span></div><div><span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: verdana;"><b>Youtube</b> : <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSjwIgTWlS1TsPBzPNurS4Q">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSjwIgTWlS1TsPBzPNurS4Q</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><i><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></i></div><div><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: verdana;"><i>Last but not the least</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Save Nature. Please do not litter</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: verdana;">(A humble request from a fellow Nature lover)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANjU9Xh2q51v_ryKzgykmVNfPjdMed8qMQbIoLVAnC0GUq8aldLWMfnknz4kLrjtGNL9rVDiUfM5XLk9LPf90BGzh8lEM2jWeDinGaPxf_fde1YdIxeNLyD66WkPdkB2pXERx-oX4uCztnbniKTDibLaHzaghG1JAA_VcHLppXBn9YQpGJrKM0TC9ww/s1920/Profile%20picture-1%20copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="876" data-original-width="1920" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANjU9Xh2q51v_ryKzgykmVNfPjdMed8qMQbIoLVAnC0GUq8aldLWMfnknz4kLrjtGNL9rVDiUfM5XLk9LPf90BGzh8lEM2jWeDinGaPxf_fde1YdIxeNLyD66WkPdkB2pXERx-oX4uCztnbniKTDibLaHzaghG1JAA_VcHLppXBn9YQpGJrKM0TC9ww/w640-h292/Profile%20picture-1%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><br />Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-60261690357601970802021-10-28T18:45:00.006+05:302021-10-29T01:35:23.137+05:30Ettina Bhuja - Conquering an Ox's Shoulder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsjvbjL2aFzwzAR9MRSMxpT7VKOt-jD0eHSZsADfsWjD1JZKWb0v-cGlQkQY4XKIKGidbGBaOZw42Gw2Bduj-Vl2ZW_dCdU_uIKcAzq2Ew0HKjAQHp-LTuvBIqhdNgeJzafkwENyvQtMc/s1024/Ettina-bhuja-peak.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsjvbjL2aFzwzAR9MRSMxpT7VKOt-jD0eHSZsADfsWjD1JZKWb0v-cGlQkQY4XKIKGidbGBaOZw42Gw2Bduj-Vl2ZW_dCdU_uIKcAzq2Ew0HKjAQHp-LTuvBIqhdNgeJzafkwENyvQtMc/s16000/Ettina-bhuja-peak.jpg" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Well guys, its been almost 2 years since my last blog post. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My hands were itching for two reasons :</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">i) Not able to Travel and take Photographs</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">ii) Not able to pen down experiences in my blog</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Reasons being ?? Any guesses .....</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Yes, you guessed it right ...... The COVID-19 Pandemic !! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">With travel restrictions imposed everywhere and the whole country being in a state of Lockdown for a long time, travelling seemed impossible. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Eventually, my legs also started to itch after being idle for quite some time 😁</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Luckily, the country started getting into a better shape and the travel restrictions were relaxed. This was a blessing to many travel freaks like me.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: verdana;">Fast forward to Oct 2021 ....</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My good old friend Bhargav and his wife Meghana were planning to trek Ettina Bhuja for quite sometime, and he asked if I would be interested to join. Without any second thoughts, I agreed to the plan. Eventually my another childhood friend Karthik and his wife Samhitha too joined the clan.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">If you have read my earlier blogs of <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2014/07/transcendental-ecstasy-at-abode-of-gods.html" target="_blank">Roopkund</a> or <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2015/08/taste-of-monsoons-in-western-ghats.html" target="_blank">Kurinjal</a> treks etc., you would be familiar with these guys.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">However, I had a feeling of being a <b>"Kabab mein Haddi"</b> or "ಶಿವಪೂಜೆಲಿ ಕರಡಿ ಬಿಟ್ಟ ಹಾಂಗೆ". The reason being, I was the only Bachelor in the trip (as my wife was not in town) 😁</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Bhargav had booked a homestay by then, which made the travel much more streamlined. Generally, most of our trips were ad-hoc without any prior plans. However, this is not the case after marriage 😁</span></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />Oct 16, 2021</span></h4><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">As planned, we hit the road on Oct 16th which was a Saturday. Karthik agreed to get his XUV500 which was like a "House on Wheels" for us. With five people and luggages onboard, this car was tailor made for the trip.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Since all of us had some commitments in the morning, we decided to depart Bangalore at 4PM. The initial hustle-bustle of the city traffic made us to reach Nelamangala an hour later, and from there it was a cake's walk (thanks to the beautiful highways by NHAI). </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">After an hour and a half, we decided to have a small break at <a href="https://gkdhruvathare.com/">Dhruvataare</a>. This small break turned out to be longer than expected, but that was energising, refreshing and lip-smacking at the same time.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We again hit the road by around 7.30 PM, and reached our <a href="https://smarikafarms.in/about-us" target="_blank">homestay</a> by 9PM after buying some eatables enroute.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">As soon as we reached Smarika Farms, we could instantly feel the chillness of the place and olfact the aroma of coffee.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Our dinner was ready by then, and the hungry stomachs wasted no time in gobbling the food.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Post dinner, we decided to take a stroll on the road and discuss on random stuff. Immediately, I noticed a dragonfly roosting on the side of the road in a small bush. I then placed a torch behind it, to show the effect of backlighting . Eventually, everyone became photographers 😁</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdT6i4woNhziiUTW5Dw8vKDakYGOxyJZ0cW4qNLJ4MtxOPEeLnlS2BCHBp8w4prJmBe4KDRWuG93gLB2VJeKhtHV4M1MJidTxqeRtX8v1wBb5Tc086eKIHZh8csXR08UiG6oNmU9STS3M/s1024/dragonfly.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="675" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdT6i4woNhziiUTW5Dw8vKDakYGOxyJZ0cW4qNLJ4MtxOPEeLnlS2BCHBp8w4prJmBe4KDRWuG93gLB2VJeKhtHV4M1MJidTxqeRtX8v1wBb5Tc086eKIHZh8csXR08UiG6oNmU9STS3M/w264-h400/dragonfly.jpg" width="264" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We then retired for the day, wondering What's in store for us the next day !!!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><h4><span style="font-family: verdana;">Oct 17, 2021</span></h4></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">All of us woke up early and headed towards Ettina bhuja by 5.30 AM. Since the distance to the nearest town Byrapura is around 50 kms , one needs at least an hour to 90 mins to reach the place. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We reached Mudigere town by 6.15 AM, and an early morning dose of fresh filter Coffee was what everyone was craving for. It's a different feel altogether to drink Coffee in the Land of Coffee.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">By 6.45, we reached Byrapura and parked our car near the Nanya Bhairaveshwara temple which is the starting point of the trek.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBEq01ubNxkYpsj1PeM8DNXnRG0qTf1PHlH_OoTHacHNVVOM1k9EuWNqxVUAx9rv4j4zotmCqrVZMKjBiiwza4IPakVIm4ik0nT1EI9eiQt_YL2Cgw-H-X883f7oENzGEQQ8KyJO2DiPI-/s2048/IMG_20211017_075045.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1538" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBEq01ubNxkYpsj1PeM8DNXnRG0qTf1PHlH_OoTHacHNVVOM1k9EuWNqxVUAx9rv4j4zotmCqrVZMKjBiiwza4IPakVIm4ik0nT1EI9eiQt_YL2Cgw-H-X883f7oENzGEQQ8KyJO2DiPI-/w640-h480/IMG_20211017_075045.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">This temple is said to be built in the 13th century by the Hoysala kings. If the weather is clear, you can see the Ettina bhuja peak from the temple itself.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We started the trek around 7 AM from the temple campus. A small muddy road opposite to the temple, leads us to the starting point of the trek. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUJ4QUPvyOG01it4MKUIKmAGGnW1MqrNQbjLXzjQ9fbKmVjWvDeEsLEubSMrLZ0c0md7Z5uVEu_SfYmMpXLIhFHAvYFbdOjMECNNhZ_AZzvYwhuI7wcqDZQE81Wwx_C2UUcig9OTSqjNy/s1024/_ARJ6636.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="672" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUJ4QUPvyOG01it4MKUIKmAGGnW1MqrNQbjLXzjQ9fbKmVjWvDeEsLEubSMrLZ0c0md7Z5uVEu_SfYmMpXLIhFHAvYFbdOjMECNNhZ_AZzvYwhuI7wcqDZQE81Wwx_C2UUcig9OTSqjNy/w421-h640/_ARJ6636.jpg" width="421" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCawXsQwSK-a1NSkurahB808UdhL7AHG1H9qOSzMghPtbOnG-XutMEpI9zop8NDiGYhLYqQCzfgEHZFeoOkwkp7XD6Ksm5nCaRWcar_S0itrtuRZ-uuE_Fi4yl5752CDrQcgQBJbQgHkYR/s1024/_ARJ6639.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="686" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCawXsQwSK-a1NSkurahB808UdhL7AHG1H9qOSzMghPtbOnG-XutMEpI9zop8NDiGYhLYqQCzfgEHZFeoOkwkp7XD6Ksm5nCaRWcar_S0itrtuRZ-uuE_Fi4yl5752CDrQcgQBJbQgHkYR/w429-h640/_ARJ6639.jpg" width="429" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The path is well defined and is very easy even for first timers without the need of a guide. However, there is another route from Shishila village for which you may need a guide. I haven't trekked from Shishila village though.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">After walking for 1km, you would magically enter into a small patch of grassland, from where you can see the whole expanse of sholas and the Ettina bhuja peak.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6GveZ3eZOglCp_NDDwZyvn0uzEMTD0AkXJQKounNtdG2-jqScNcJwDPxuNtx0I9xymt-IAVgljWMAqP2ML1i4NEU236yVv_R4233XZ9i5fZEVzcjaJNaAZIGYhLrvIG1__Hoya6o0pQa/s1024/_ARJ6586.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="644" data-original-width="1024" height="403" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6GveZ3eZOglCp_NDDwZyvn0uzEMTD0AkXJQKounNtdG2-jqScNcJwDPxuNtx0I9xymt-IAVgljWMAqP2ML1i4NEU236yVv_R4233XZ9i5fZEVzcjaJNaAZIGYhLrvIG1__Hoya6o0pQa/w640-h403/_ARJ6586.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyU4A8hfd956kNjddg7w4A8Ll8-9dBtb3dd7vAUjKHvK1qQuPUnfdt8uDZLXlaHV28KQCM2UO5KTGHmpXVlsrBDRBLgVMDW-dURaffmJf1vRI6o4p_CvQ503TjxO8WHrPLBDxW9rADmGnJ/s1024/_ARJ6598.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="651" data-original-width="1024" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyU4A8hfd956kNjddg7w4A8Ll8-9dBtb3dd7vAUjKHvK1qQuPUnfdt8uDZLXlaHV28KQCM2UO5KTGHmpXVlsrBDRBLgVMDW-dURaffmJf1vRI6o4p_CvQ503TjxO8WHrPLBDxW9rADmGnJ/w640-h406/_ARJ6598.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">When you see the peak for the first time, you feel there is a lot to trek. However, that is not the case. The distance is quite short compared to other treks in the Western ghats. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">If the peak is visible, and the light is good, it means that it is Photo time ...</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLgS_y2eb0TmYC9uKhLfCflEMYC_ONCwfuNW9TLnn7LFi5SrNmU2TNTdB_qv6ODUiPjvmoL1WIR4EvtNhQaRvNTbaVKaQlCkmBH_mt16ZjiTyHLgq14mrdV4q6HIY3z1DnQxtpLfEVAtP/s1024/_ARJ6621-Edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLgS_y2eb0TmYC9uKhLfCflEMYC_ONCwfuNW9TLnn7LFi5SrNmU2TNTdB_qv6ODUiPjvmoL1WIR4EvtNhQaRvNTbaVKaQlCkmBH_mt16ZjiTyHLgq14mrdV4q6HIY3z1DnQxtpLfEVAtP/w640-h426/_ARJ6621-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div style="text-align: center;"> (From L to R : Myself , Karthik , Samhitha , Meghana , Bhargav)</div></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">After the photo session, we resumed the trek. You will have to cross another forest patch before you hit the grasslands again. This patch is slightly trickier than the first one. If it's raining, the route may be slippery and you may have to cross small puddles of water here and there. The ascent starts to increase gradually from here onwards. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Ensure you have multiple supplies of water and energy bars to keep yourselves energized. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFPtQqD9ACsRGRLWsmSVpLdAEh2DhptyUJ5H5N2Ric8s2gLgusNQbcL6IevhBdzOB10wnNAanCwT_m2XH-FB0L7Ct2cMPMaaG4yfsy_6Qyx2WtgeurIeEdrKO0RRCFwD8gNvBNTDODAqm/s1024/_ARJ6572.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="1024" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFPtQqD9ACsRGRLWsmSVpLdAEh2DhptyUJ5H5N2Ric8s2gLgusNQbcL6IevhBdzOB10wnNAanCwT_m2XH-FB0L7Ct2cMPMaaG4yfsy_6Qyx2WtgeurIeEdrKO0RRCFwD8gNvBNTDODAqm/w640-h470/_ARJ6572.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Trekking in monsoons has its own charm. You see vibrant green patches of ferns and moss everywhere. </span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgJpYt_umfIezzB7thv8oy91JWkoh2BDF63EX3oMJxFPmsqrxrggedp3CTZC3jBGO5Wbz3vA52G-BrRXF_3HIJYV7G2mEKQxnK7iWDSECLlzpDyn4JXOOr57Nv7-c0tGeV6RQd9wo1IqI/s1024/_ARJ6657.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="754" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgJpYt_umfIezzB7thv8oy91JWkoh2BDF63EX3oMJxFPmsqrxrggedp3CTZC3jBGO5Wbz3vA52G-BrRXF_3HIJYV7G2mEKQxnK7iWDSECLlzpDyn4JXOOr57Nv7-c0tGeV6RQd9wo1IqI/w472-h640/_ARJ6657.jpg" width="472" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; text-align: left;">The floral life is incredible with large varieties of flowers that can be spotted enroute.</span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYL0uRDZeuTrKqRmAB2HnmFBVi_tDglTlBt1KRQV44W8Tbt3eYi6UowhH9IKqnpB9TyxENfogIQC3dJzboXRWPC6VvZADfroQOL3xv9UGi1kN5pTvbO4L8gnSocCv5PoEwEx7aOlFvZaE/s1024/_ARJ6678.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="1024" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYL0uRDZeuTrKqRmAB2HnmFBVi_tDglTlBt1KRQV44W8Tbt3eYi6UowhH9IKqnpB9TyxENfogIQC3dJzboXRWPC6VvZADfroQOL3xv9UGi1kN5pTvbO4L8gnSocCv5PoEwEx7aOlFvZaE/w640-h488/_ARJ6678.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">As I said earlier, the route is clearly defined and one may not need a guide to climb the peak. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">After trekking for another 1km in the forest, one enters a small junction where there are two routes. You may get confused at this point and we learnt the hard way !</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The route towards the left was a proper well defined route, and the route towards the right was short and narrow.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">It is common sense to take the well defined route, and any body would have done that. However, this route gradually becomes narrower and leads to a small check dam around 500 metres away.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We all took this route, and entered the check dam. The route was extremely narrow and infested with leeches. Immediately we realized that we had to return back to the junction point.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGCossge-kM7PktT02YsbVAjzilIW20RiUJcrOzhWO6DkO7uvc3QgVEa-4ddAxV16w5hmTeiM1hVwyrNIm2dLT2dJ49ERStqcG_bG0691zIxJq6iWlGIMvbTgO3IzZ9R7OlR3tjcBgeeD/s1024/_ARJ6716.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="533" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWGCossge-kM7PktT02YsbVAjzilIW20RiUJcrOzhWO6DkO7uvc3QgVEa-4ddAxV16w5hmTeiM1hVwyrNIm2dLT2dJ49ERStqcG_bG0691zIxJq6iWlGIMvbTgO3IzZ9R7OlR3tjcBgeeD/w334-h640/_ARJ6716.jpg" width="334" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidA9cxMbK5-8dc_tg0ptRlgox6nLsUYXSQy0pAOXvDu9VRe96Grm0ZcBUwlWoU1alTCkgQ44VRRy6BD78dPc01fqG0B4c8hfnOo2358T5x6EbNR-6rAUL-sUKqtuEdJdF2hLMquow6IUdB/s1024/_ARJ6752.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="1024" height="441" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidA9cxMbK5-8dc_tg0ptRlgox6nLsUYXSQy0pAOXvDu9VRe96Grm0ZcBUwlWoU1alTCkgQ44VRRy6BD78dPc01fqG0B4c8hfnOo2358T5x6EbNR-6rAUL-sUKqtuEdJdF2hLMquow6IUdB/w640-h441/_ARJ6752.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">However, this route had its own beauty. Leeches were playing hide and seek with us, and it was a tough time to seek the leeches.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The clouds had filled the forest, and we could see fog and mist all over the place.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtiCqB3k-8i8W4L_CLnBDYwAwUgVwjRFW8ATnd6PsA9QXIF61e6hbzPlgRaXxu4INmMev2j8g_cdovf7dSULlqoxs6aZ9xDc4qZ8pUfpnkoO5oqDNh8Wun4FCy2C7y3qONoKRDNdVroEz/s2048/IMG_20211017_083642.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtiCqB3k-8i8W4L_CLnBDYwAwUgVwjRFW8ATnd6PsA9QXIF61e6hbzPlgRaXxu4INmMev2j8g_cdovf7dSULlqoxs6aZ9xDc4qZ8pUfpnkoO5oqDNh8Wun4FCy2C7y3qONoKRDNdVroEz/w640-h480/IMG_20211017_083642.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBrYpc5JIfe6IRWqiooncYvxtTAFVi1UYx9z3gHeKej1KYzvS59mTfGe70yPPuF-_PPPUS4f_kB_gY6SjdnStbq4CiUTXmLKO8vU3Aw7DXjKVQ_psEUAwk767cW9HS4IQtU_JYQ2CNeM-l/s2048/IMG_20211017_083902.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1538" data-original-width="2048" height="481" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBrYpc5JIfe6IRWqiooncYvxtTAFVi1UYx9z3gHeKej1KYzvS59mTfGe70yPPuF-_PPPUS4f_kB_gY6SjdnStbq4CiUTXmLKO8vU3Aw7DXjKVQ_psEUAwk767cW9HS4IQtU_JYQ2CNeM-l/w640-h481/IMG_20211017_083902.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">After reaching the junction point, we trekked along the route towards the right and we entered the grasslands in no time. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Summary : <b>RIGHT ROUTE is the RIGHT ROUTE 😃</b></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">From the grassland, it's a constant ascent till the peak. Things can get slightly tricky from here onwards, if you are a first time trekker. The air starts to become thin, and you can feel your heartbeat.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZSiJNhyphenhyphen6lTdx-AyrgdEMCFLickJm_EiMh5i8uYa23uHyLmc66dGWB29wJvnuHjyBN3Xhpkc1wD60cxJCxXDGboJWlBag4edA3iWtEMM-axp0gg5Y-RntWR7OLb-ymDu2IKAI4UuWXBP-/s1024/A+lone+tree.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZSiJNhyphenhyphen6lTdx-AyrgdEMCFLickJm_EiMh5i8uYa23uHyLmc66dGWB29wJvnuHjyBN3Xhpkc1wD60cxJCxXDGboJWlBag4edA3iWtEMM-axp0gg5Y-RntWR7OLb-ymDu2IKAI4UuWXBP-/s16000/A+lone+tree.jpg" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>I loved this lonely tree standing firm amidst all odds </span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The clouds too started playing Hide and Seek with us, as the visible peak becomes invisible within no time !</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrY3MjmvuUSdGZqa9h5huQRPmWL5vPRnK8kYKqSHxom5p_M08JB8TK7n8PSyKFqk624KUX8CvNGFLzm5vnqLWY98s5yxe9W1UF8FZtHCm72sDz4aCNBxGzmikD8DVJVH_JZHdUA8a3rFK/s1024/_ARJ6795.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="1024" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrY3MjmvuUSdGZqa9h5huQRPmWL5vPRnK8kYKqSHxom5p_M08JB8TK7n8PSyKFqk624KUX8CvNGFLzm5vnqLWY98s5yxe9W1UF8FZtHCm72sDz4aCNBxGzmikD8DVJVH_JZHdUA8a3rFK/w640-h339/_ARJ6795.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBNTnn_b7xkf8aZPTs3nNLKUAXPthTsH-e-iU4Tgf28nc8o3uDHe3wN6Jo-qk_Fp73VJO7Qn18suTUrHRhyphenhyphenJKg3MWUNGWlpgI7uCK1xgjqUK7fw8uB9N0DEQS_M1oXpxxLu9q0_4KhTzNS/s1024/_ARJ6789-Edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBNTnn_b7xkf8aZPTs3nNLKUAXPthTsH-e-iU4Tgf28nc8o3uDHe3wN6Jo-qk_Fp73VJO7Qn18suTUrHRhyphenhyphenJKg3MWUNGWlpgI7uCK1xgjqUK7fw8uB9N0DEQS_M1oXpxxLu9q0_4KhTzNS/w640-h427/_ARJ6789-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">From this viewpoint, you can get a 360 degree view of the whole range. The charmadi ranges opens up from here, and if you are lucky you get to see them.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">For us, it was a different game altogether. We could not see the Ettina bhuja peak itself, forget about seeing the Charmadi ranges. All thanks to Clouds and Fog <b>😃</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">This is a good resting point to refresh and re-energize.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBZF-VUEIyMfbwYOjsGaNCtZv4l85wq7Z3vf9RsiIojAC9v_J-9CzFh3mQqIi3bmSi0Re6rHUhqABHSSo7cA86qYp_HF6DsUlE4ZmFe315nsrkrq7Q53OJjLKVVexOQbeuWoZNrCJciQ6N/s1024/_ARJ6874.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="1024" height="431" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBZF-VUEIyMfbwYOjsGaNCtZv4l85wq7Z3vf9RsiIojAC9v_J-9CzFh3mQqIi3bmSi0Re6rHUhqABHSSo7cA86qYp_HF6DsUlE4ZmFe315nsrkrq7Q53OJjLKVVexOQbeuWoZNrCJciQ6N/w640-h431/_ARJ6874.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">You can also see the Nanya Bhairaveshwara temple from here, which seems to be visible in a distant hill.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OlUGTMTD7e6M-Mrj2wpehgQZkdnC-lcPpYSljSncUsX3sZTsS0FfcTtgxzvwcfCUSA_eBYK88Rd3KeBwskJ6vDUuvOqKQ_XtYQCvEpAlxPMiydaOZafWa20pXDfW8bhxsAxEdlXRxQG3/s1024/temple-viewpoint.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OlUGTMTD7e6M-Mrj2wpehgQZkdnC-lcPpYSljSncUsX3sZTsS0FfcTtgxzvwcfCUSA_eBYK88Rd3KeBwskJ6vDUuvOqKQ_XtYQCvEpAlxPMiydaOZafWa20pXDfW8bhxsAxEdlXRxQG3/s16000/temple-viewpoint.jpg" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Once you start nearing the hump of the Ox's shoulder, you can feel the ascent to be more strenuous. The climb is almost 70 - 80 degrees, with boulders to hold on.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The last part of the climb is slightly difficult, as you have to climb on a huge rock to reach the summit. During monsoons, this stretch can be very difficult as the rocks might be slippery with winds adding to the difficulty.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzVaVLLrZh28ORQohLp3paQsX9RBOK5Ltpxia9rfQ3zfj-__mfAuolM99qEI_yzYSCbaFgj8_FSmmZ1dd2o5nNZvrg9o-y146txFN8V_DxCulliB57YipIEOM2ZKzbbWBFX-_RWt2bBy8/s1024/Grass-on-peak.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1024" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzVaVLLrZh28ORQohLp3paQsX9RBOK5Ltpxia9rfQ3zfj-__mfAuolM99qEI_yzYSCbaFgj8_FSmmZ1dd2o5nNZvrg9o-y146txFN8V_DxCulliB57YipIEOM2ZKzbbWBFX-_RWt2bBy8/w640-h420/Grass-on-peak.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7CASovqKq25d1Z-F7xBpxxWb6AGWWtXjC8zzbGU6JJlMdEI6SmW0XsjxdU2ljqrAshMMMh8to3Jnrx3c7I_noC1hyYF_3CBrr96O1EcYpyjM1eD_J5HvCS-qhOPMytbqa-yq-lbSbHsN/s1024/_ARJ6818.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="920" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7CASovqKq25d1Z-F7xBpxxWb6AGWWtXjC8zzbGU6JJlMdEI6SmW0XsjxdU2ljqrAshMMMh8to3Jnrx3c7I_noC1hyYF_3CBrr96O1EcYpyjM1eD_J5HvCS-qhOPMytbqa-yq-lbSbHsN/w576-h640/_ARJ6818.jpg" width="576" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgIr26yBEYSe5wAxoXwjVz5GDMKiPLNrWsHr0P1-xlyiUvlCf0kPj8Z577GlnzLcNCiAtm43tE7eLD4RTVp916T8valJWL25WDJO0cwG6l51LK6h3V1LqD9rQ4dVqJuuO_TWMPzfJ9qJ4/s2048/IMG_20211017_103810.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgIr26yBEYSe5wAxoXwjVz5GDMKiPLNrWsHr0P1-xlyiUvlCf0kPj8Z577GlnzLcNCiAtm43tE7eLD4RTVp916T8valJWL25WDJO0cwG6l51LK6h3V1LqD9rQ4dVqJuuO_TWMPzfJ9qJ4/w640-h480/IMG_20211017_103810.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We reached the summit by 9 AM, and it was slightly earlier than expected. If there were clear skies, we could have seen the whole ranges of Charmadi Ghats and Shishila valley which were bathed in emerald green.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiywmvwcHOjdWf2I2WNKE9ApPU50JMd7CW9vAtGvzwlSvb4VZId09G4OgEVjHAjXggYP0w40cnUfRXWvcMvO66jAse6IY_DMD0swSkbcD-9f5p6WbOEgfOqkJA8F75bvl66bG1VXgwOklXS/s1920/Samhitha-flag.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiywmvwcHOjdWf2I2WNKE9ApPU50JMd7CW9vAtGvzwlSvb4VZId09G4OgEVjHAjXggYP0w40cnUfRXWvcMvO66jAse6IY_DMD0swSkbcD-9f5p6WbOEgfOqkJA8F75bvl66bG1VXgwOklXS/w640-h480/Samhitha-flag.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">It was Samhitha's first trek, and her joy knew no bounds upon reaching the summit. She expressed it by waving the flag of Karnataka.</span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">From the peak, one can get clearer views of Jenugallu gudda , Deepadakallu , Amedi kallu etc., which are other prominent peaks of the region (if there is good visibility).</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGhe8Q7ZzXKhJ_7tnYdBoHf46MT1FtxxxE0qawF748KyeDYOIAnYO8jfpfxU3yxdNLUQw4cYi8egFS_idwP8FLbSyHQS3SUwaRzN8Wqhh6LHOTkJrJC8CwPzYpx5YzNDkQpd3187g2aMl/s1920/peak.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGhe8Q7ZzXKhJ_7tnYdBoHf46MT1FtxxxE0qawF748KyeDYOIAnYO8jfpfxU3yxdNLUQw4cYi8egFS_idwP8FLbSyHQS3SUwaRzN8Wqhh6LHOTkJrJC8CwPzYpx5YzNDkQpd3187g2aMl/w640-h480/peak.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="text-align: left;">This is what we could see </span><b style="text-align: left;">😃</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We had carried packed breakfast, and savouring the food at this place was no less than heaven.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The descent follows the same path as ascent, and if the weather is clear, one can reach the temple in an hour. However, our motto of every trek is different, as we try to create Green Trails wherever we trek. Because of this, we took a lot of time in clearing up the garbage which was discarded in these pristine mountains. "<b>How cruel can humans be"</b> is the thought that came to my mind, after seeing huge chunks of plastic everywhere.</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">While clearing the plastic, we also requested people not to litter the place. Some followed and some pretended to follow. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: verdana;">Conserving Nature is of utmost importance to everyone.</span></i></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></span><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: black; font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: verdana;">“In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught.”</span></span></h4></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="background-color: black; font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: verdana;">- Baba Dioum</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGaPijXO4TjjPkuxmNGswTsraVKWy11IbJ8V1jZE6-dVnAHwF2LhPZ2SYpZHY5bRyZDb2UjGLLuEihyphenhyphenDhyphenhyphenoH7Boxw9LtwXNYed2tWiONnPYvWHNfaXmk0661b1f6gTUpTtXFQW172UcHxH/s1560/garbage.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1172" data-original-width="1560" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGaPijXO4TjjPkuxmNGswTsraVKWy11IbJ8V1jZE6-dVnAHwF2LhPZ2SYpZHY5bRyZDb2UjGLLuEihyphenhyphenDhyphenhyphenoH7Boxw9LtwXNYed2tWiONnPYvWHNfaXmk0661b1f6gTUpTtXFQW172UcHxH/w640-h480/garbage.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We reached the base in about 2 and half hours, after collecting as much plastic as we could. To save space, we stuffed in chocolate papers in these bottles. Expecting others to clean your trash in these mountains is purely Inhuman.</span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Let us be responsible and try to create green trails everywhere. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCCkhuQncCSPirOr8pphStfFTFy7uVO4hvhFXgMTQTaGV4ZTUF8-pVR2sCZCD4OXCc_YTyPq94BDK-CTSPvbKnn8WwKwsO17_DCc3654XqpMEMNjxki1af5KcMiPbCUlGOhXjWOrxfy99Q/s1024/_ARJ6702.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="1024" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCCkhuQncCSPirOr8pphStfFTFy7uVO4hvhFXgMTQTaGV4ZTUF8-pVR2sCZCD4OXCc_YTyPq94BDK-CTSPvbKnn8WwKwsO17_DCc3654XqpMEMNjxki1af5KcMiPbCUlGOhXjWOrxfy99Q/w640-h374/_ARJ6702.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I especially like to thank Meghana and Samhitha for their help in clearing the plastic. The reason being, it was their first trek & cleaning garbage was definitely a first time experience for them. To do so without any hesitation is highly appreciable !!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">This is nothing new to Karthik, Bhargav and myself as we do this in most of our treks !</span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Tips to trekkers :</span></h1><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><h3><span style="font-family: verdana;">About Ettina Bhuja :</span></h3></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-weight: normal;">Ettina Bhuja literally means an Ox's Shoulder in Kannada. By now you would have understood why the hill is named that way. If not, see my banner image 😀</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-weight: normal;">It is situated in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka and is about 1300 m above sea level.</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Best time to Visit :</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">September to February</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">If you want to enjoy greenery, then September/October is good. If you want to enjoy the views with no clouds, then Winter months are better. However, the grass turns brown in winters.</span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />How to Reach :</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">1. <b>By Bus</b> - Take an overnight bus from Bangalore in the night which reaches Mudigere early in the morning. From there take a local bus to Byrapura where the Nanya Bhairaveshwara temple is situated.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">2. <b>By Car</b> - </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Bangalore - Nelamangala - Hassan - Sakleshpur - Byrapura</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">or </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Bangalore - Nelamangala - Hassan - Belur - Mudigere - Byrapura</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We chose the second route, as our homestay was in between Belur and Mudigere.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><h3><span style="font-family: verdana;">Distance to trek :</span></h3></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Unlike other Western ghats trek, this one is a fairly easier one (if you start the trek from Nanya Bhairaveshwara temple). </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Assuming you have started from the temple, the trek is around 4kms one way to reach the peak.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">If you start the trek early in the morning, you should be back by noon.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><h3><span style="font-family: verdana;">Food and other essentials :</span></h3></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">You need to carry all essentials like Water & Food , as you would not get them nearby.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Where to stay :</span></h3><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">There are plenty of homestays and resorts near Mudigere and Sakleshpura. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">We stayed in a homestay called <a href="https://smarikafarms.in/overview">Smarika Farms</a>. The hosts were very hospitable & helpful, and the place is situated amidst coffee plantations which makes it a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate yourself. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Al the details of this place is given in the link above.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOIB-v2Pr9CXbHiU9kSs5D8Rx6nApXcYWFMjLsXG4wa-wvskWVULFOhOgHsu09q5iYaroA1VEKo0y767miPhAD1_oWHqBIzJDfWQDlM_6iTbXEDLRqSN_MZ45q2ot0qDyDEfT6-_DyR-H/s2048/IMG_20211018_103520.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOIB-v2Pr9CXbHiU9kSs5D8Rx6nApXcYWFMjLsXG4wa-wvskWVULFOhOgHsu09q5iYaroA1VEKo0y767miPhAD1_oWHqBIzJDfWQDlM_6iTbXEDLRqSN_MZ45q2ot0qDyDEfT6-_DyR-H/w640-h480/IMG_20211018_103520.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieGRezWFtMbE4byCnkgmXWgbOwrG7pvsaXFQVD9aXDg_TmZh8c-iwc691AnVfVA-UX9VJMD4bfuucddBphTcVuYLSiRC9Qx95evM28867z4qaE2R6h-OjwJx7ekAPN95sfVT5ci6nrbwxY/s2048/IMG_20211018_103530.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="2048" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieGRezWFtMbE4byCnkgmXWgbOwrG7pvsaXFQVD9aXDg_TmZh8c-iwc691AnVfVA-UX9VJMD4bfuucddBphTcVuYLSiRC9Qx95evM28867z4qaE2R6h-OjwJx7ekAPN95sfVT5ci6nrbwxY/w640-h126/IMG_20211018_103530.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><h3><span style="font-family: verdana;">Places to visit :</span></h3></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Some of the major tourist attractions nearby are : Dharmasthala , Mudigere , Devaramane , Chikmagalur , Belur , Sakleshpura etc., </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">It all depends on the route that you are taking</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I hope you enjoyed reading the blog. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Please follow and subscribe to get more updates from me.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><b>My instagram handle : <a href="https://www.instagram.com/arjun_haarith/">https://www.instagram.com/arjun_haarith/ </a></b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: verdana;">PLEASE DON'T LITTER !!</span></h3><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="TbwUpd NJjxre" style="display: inline-block; left: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px; padding-top: 1px; position: absolute; text-size-adjust: none; top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="B6fmyf" style="height: 0px; position: absolute; top: 0px; visibility: hidden; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div class="TbwUpd" style="background-color: #202124; color: #bdc1c6; display: inline-block; padding-bottom: 2px; padding-top: 1px; text-size-adjust: none;"><cite class="iUh30 Zu0yb qLRx3b tjvcx" style="font-style: normal; line-height: 1.3; padding-top: 1px;"><span class="dyjrff qzEoUe" style="color: #969ba1;"></span></cite></div><div class="eFM0qc" style="background-color: #202124; color: #bdc1c6; display: inline-block; padding-bottom: 2px; padding-left: 2px; padding-top: 1px; visibility: visible;"></div></span></div></div></div>Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-46466096645389493012019-05-31T22:59:00.002+05:302019-05-31T23:58:54.766+05:30A night at the haunted church : Shettihalli <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Frankly speaking, I never knew this beautiful church had a haunted background to it. I always thought that this church was a perfect weekend getaway to many Bangaloreans and people of other towns nearby. Though my thought is still true, the other side of the story can still be creepy especially at night.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The once beautiful church is now nothing but a mere ruin. Because of its uniqueness, it is also a sought after destination to many photo lovers. This place also has less light pollution compared to other places in the state, thus making it a good destination for night sky / astrophotography.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">History of the Church</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The church was built during the 1860's by the French missionaries. However a century later, the denizens of the area moved along with their belongings, thus abandoning the place</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. This was due to the construction of the Gorur dam which </span><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">was built across the Hemavati river, had caused the church to be submerged in water. Even today during monsoons, the church is covered with water, and many tourists visit the place to get a glimpse of this magnificent architecture in a different dimension.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim8R98dZMX7If0b46UQl9LnzLQSKbicPao-F_2adkSuw0FNU2CGYJj6dTN0rQzZiQbCuUmv_GhUFo44JKzSbj-SnVOBK4ZpimCa9Adj2n59RH1M4u_8qtvOKlbxMIQY32sgx-YKz0DUSny/s1600/church-2-bw-cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="1024" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim8R98dZMX7If0b46UQl9LnzLQSKbicPao-F_2adkSuw0FNU2CGYJj6dTN0rQzZiQbCuUmv_GhUFo44JKzSbj-SnVOBK4ZpimCa9Adj2n59RH1M4u_8qtvOKlbxMIQY32sgx-YKz0DUSny/s640/church-2-bw-cartoon.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Best time to visit</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Though the church is open all around the year, it is suggested to visit the church at-least twice in a year to see the beauty in two different perspectives.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijjsyhsUOhbkWud-K7jCQwcVvgLQFZmiZXsXivsu3Wgu5drY_0vMaBOHOn7fhJFZynWFdPKTFzoy1fHWsrZX-aG7SUzGd8vl-6UKFYqogvTVaPgjKto7qSkrnZlydMMTSTLf2sXncto2P/s1600/church-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1024" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijjsyhsUOhbkWud-K7jCQwcVvgLQFZmiZXsXivsu3Wgu5drY_0vMaBOHOn7fhJFZynWFdPKTFzoy1fHWsrZX-aG7SUzGd8vl-6UKFYqogvTVaPgjKto7qSkrnZlydMMTSTLf2sXncto2P/s640/church-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dec-May : The church is seen as shown above, and one can take a stroll around it to enjoy the structure and appreciate the church.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">July - Sep : The whole perspective is changed during this time, where the church is partially submerged in water.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shettihalli is located around 35kms from Hassan (in the state of Karnataka). Hassan is very well connected by roadways and railways from various other places in the state. Hassan is situated around 200kms from Bangalore , around 130kms from Mysore and around 170kms from Mangalore.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Route:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bangalore -> Nelamangala -> Kunigal -> Channarayapatna -> Hassan -> Shettihalli</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you are going by a private vehicle, take the deviation to the left just before Hassan and exit the highway. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you are still unsure, use Google Maps :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are plenty of restaurants/dhabas all along the highway until Hassan. Among these, few noted ones are, <b>Kicchana Halli Mane</b> run by the famous movie star Sudeep , <b>Swathi Delicacy , Hotel Mayura , A2B</b> etc.,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, if you plan to stay overnight at the church, then it is advised to carry packed food as there are no hotels in the vicinity.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Itinerary </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This season I made a couple of visits to the rosary church. First in April 2019 with a group of around 9-10 people and again in early May with a team of almost 25 people. I was mentoring this group as part of the astro photography workshop conducted by <a href="http://www.ypsbengaluru.com/" target="_blank">Youth Photographic Society</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The church has its own glory even though it is a ruin. Though there are cracks that are developed in the structure, I was amazed at the construction and silently appreciated the people behind its construction back then. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While I was wondering about the church, I pondered upon these things:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. Even though the church was abandoned from 1960 (almost 60 years back), the major part of it is still intact.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Every year, the church is submerged in water for a good amount of time, and also subjected to immense heat during the later part of the year. However, the church is standing tall irrespective of the harsh natural conditions.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tips to photographers</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. I suggest you to reach the place before sunset, so that you can shoot the monument along with the setting sun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The above image is a composite image which was stitched using 10 single images. The gradient light and variation of colors is what makes the place more attractive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Post sunset, the clouds can be as dramatic as it can be. This is considered as the golden hour when you can capture vivid images of the enchanting vistas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="711" data-original-width="1024" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqD2dzqzIzgEtJDK9HFlQuKl4Bj6W5Vc2fefkyGrWIla_D0dS4J4XxarCpHaxnpn7CFqa7bbaquDpyBYEIyccd0SIKu5Rxud9k8fQnqRJPkd3zTT7LxREZR_nbfYX_4IEZNXb4gpCpSwu6/s640/church-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Once the golden hour starts to recede, try the long exposure photography. If you have a private vehicle and a co-operative friend, then ask him to encircle the church with the vehicle's headlights ON. Thereby, in a single exposure you can capture both the light trails and the movement of clouds as shown below.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnENHcpyDNmdHF0JlbVANlLT50Dzp245KwbbUcnDfllHD5YKM8m5Oa4BR6_Yortt2d_FBSPkmsx7uUx1TIC6LJwFZo45JqmcFxRY9HQmmbbamKUj2HtmDiNl9rVD884Ruv9FHfyf9LHWuq/s1600/car-trails.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1024" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnENHcpyDNmdHF0JlbVANlLT50Dzp245KwbbUcnDfllHD5YKM8m5Oa4BR6_Yortt2d_FBSPkmsx7uUx1TIC6LJwFZo45JqmcFxRY9HQmmbbamKUj2HtmDiNl9rVD884Ruv9FHfyf9LHWuq/s640/car-trails.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. Later in the night, steel wool can also be tried. However, be careful when playing with fire and also keep in mind that protecting the monument comes first than anything else. So none of your actions should cause any harm to the monument.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZqQsO60ooYnrCOqCUfFT0SIZmHcZ3RHU2EUwvjjmltACQ55ALGNPEpo4pQVFKJy8zP2NeGcWB0cwzk6T33AKg6IirtsIsEN7Hz56vYfGKrzop4bJ_Je41QQUwiV_I_aTWtgox3idOYGBa/s1600/DSC_3509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="1024" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZqQsO60ooYnrCOqCUfFT0SIZmHcZ3RHU2EUwvjjmltACQ55ALGNPEpo4pQVFKJy8zP2NeGcWB0cwzk6T33AKg6IirtsIsEN7Hz56vYfGKrzop4bJ_Je41QQUwiV_I_aTWtgox3idOYGBa/s640/DSC_3509.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-piJ52H1XzAAUcMu3ItD-RznX7RN5Ma-bgoRAtzL_NiyytQ9rxG7T6iQpS1Va75QNE10BDug_AAh14fo-FLRqiciFU_oLas1ZOhVp3F-_aPEXH7xr2XafDGQtcaMewPVDyUSpg5PSXUZ/s1600/DSC_3523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="1024" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-piJ52H1XzAAUcMu3ItD-RznX7RN5Ma-bgoRAtzL_NiyytQ9rxG7T6iQpS1Va75QNE10BDug_AAh14fo-FLRqiciFU_oLas1ZOhVp3F-_aPEXH7xr2XafDGQtcaMewPVDyUSpg5PSXUZ/s640/DSC_3523.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. Also, try your hands with Light painting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Light painting, painting with light, light drawing, or light art performance photography are terms that describe <span class="s1" style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white;">photographic</span></span> techniques of moving a light source while taking a <span class="s1" style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white;">long exposure</span></span> photograph, either to illuminate a subject or space, or to shine light at the <span class="s1" style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white;">camera</span></span> to 'draw', or by moving the camera itself during exposure of light sources. Practiced since the 1880s, the technique is used for both scientific and artistic purposes, as well as in commercial photography.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Technically even Steel Wool can be considered as Light painting.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6LxcaiLNbwfmyPG1GpqTjfoDSfi4NKY0kJZv-qJKNv7xWx49SKUS4vP_hA-i8okWq9bipj8iihOF0E2lCpxtJg8iM9qc4pKSbFbeeCtS83MO2SkLh6-zBBynR2mwUhC1yOTn5Ujrhazqw/s1600/church-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="1024" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6LxcaiLNbwfmyPG1GpqTjfoDSfi4NKY0kJZv-qJKNv7xWx49SKUS4vP_hA-i8okWq9bipj8iihOF0E2lCpxtJg8iM9qc4pKSbFbeeCtS83MO2SkLh6-zBBynR2mwUhC1yOTn5Ujrhazqw/s640/church-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiCDU4D1RnRPblUx7mQ3OnyFNsRSAqt0x2DGCPuhzTs_GozVoiAcPiFZCgs-mdsH5Q8LzGCKRBxhRZK2tnci5j9EGaQ5i09Rwx4eIemCwBpjNQMpwnm7Bs7KbIbi3PTjo_Xu503-Rqt6x/s1600/church-and-car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="653" data-original-width="1024" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiCDU4D1RnRPblUx7mQ3OnyFNsRSAqt0x2DGCPuhzTs_GozVoiAcPiFZCgs-mdsH5Q8LzGCKRBxhRZK2tnci5j9EGaQ5i09Rwx4eIemCwBpjNQMpwnm7Bs7KbIbi3PTjo_Xu503-Rqt6x/s640/church-and-car.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIWaaqmHjvBf91YU3A7PmFzTmyFRp6M-uETymhM-7kFX1vB3TIg9Ul3offRghQNbaFOTwPlv5B0Jb_pThXCUUjAXLrUCpTqIp7EVI9w73IfLNLWRn6h0FyDZP-8NiRT9KtYXzeBQzoh_M/s1600/manandchurch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="1024" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIWaaqmHjvBf91YU3A7PmFzTmyFRp6M-uETymhM-7kFX1vB3TIg9Ul3offRghQNbaFOTwPlv5B0Jb_pThXCUUjAXLrUCpTqIp7EVI9w73IfLNLWRn6h0FyDZP-8NiRT9KtYXzeBQzoh_M/s640/manandchurch.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. Once the stars engulf the sky, the magic unfolds. A person who is from urban areas will get to witness millions of glowing jewels that they seldom see in cities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Night sky / Astro photography is a very challenging genre of photography and equally exciting as well. Once you start capturing the beauty of the night sky, it is very hard for you to come out of it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Star Trails :</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These are not falling stars, but the movement of stars captured using a technique called Long Exposure. The movement of stars is due to the Earth's rotation and it can be seen as a trail.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOH74LZu_tUtQsB3afcBGG0TqBTgj7O3bQ698nN8y8_1zm04joHMv7jwYH3V6_c5dnjMoYn3Mtc2wRt_KlW4O4E0B_8VO5EeeOcTZqx9fRG5V1MdIznaS2EXO3hCEKou3kMw3QmMHrzCG/s1600/Star+Trails+-+posting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOH74LZu_tUtQsB3afcBGG0TqBTgj7O3bQ698nN8y8_1zm04joHMv7jwYH3V6_c5dnjMoYn3Mtc2wRt_KlW4O4E0B_8VO5EeeOcTZqx9fRG5V1MdIznaS2EXO3hCEKou3kMw3QmMHrzCG/s640/Star+Trails+-+posting.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hyhq6yEkfyFVFWcO1xCldGi7MS2_L0Ucq7_yt3VjvGSyr87uWcplTrFis0PhHBjboyj-UjL8vRe1SraDLwhbwyAybnllx4a4Tio3f8Gdkg4YjlgLfKMppXT3HKNGFFPFsrqbTybBHgrc/s1600/star-trails-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="1024" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hyhq6yEkfyFVFWcO1xCldGi7MS2_L0Ucq7_yt3VjvGSyr87uWcplTrFis0PhHBjboyj-UjL8vRe1SraDLwhbwyAybnllx4a4Tio3f8Gdkg4YjlgLfKMppXT3HKNGFFPFsrqbTybBHgrc/s640/star-trails-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">More details on the techniques to capture Night sky is written in this blog. Click <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2013/09/from-here-to-eternity-exploration-of.html" target="_blank">here</a> to read about it.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJtdJ1RzzbWnCqc4kQ6ov0cfATDcDWiyuBcr4XXImNls7uiqS5xlJgy0U18EGc5kubapPG3k1mDiCEqcIjzCJL0ZFT-PbkA0IjeRjHKC9a4bdYGCc0KyhzJQZNvhfSVKlt8ZL1XjrT3ei/s1600/Ghost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJtdJ1RzzbWnCqc4kQ6ov0cfATDcDWiyuBcr4XXImNls7uiqS5xlJgy0U18EGc5kubapPG3k1mDiCEqcIjzCJL0ZFT-PbkA0IjeRjHKC9a4bdYGCc0KyhzJQZNvhfSVKlt8ZL1XjrT3ei/s640/Ghost.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once you have captured the trails, try to make it more interesting by placing an object of interest and compose the frame accordingly.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib28B_Y-LoMie3MM66HK5HXADqPWI-c_a3Z-RnWJEPR3U5GUEQWb70B6DUstzLwshQm3u3GrYETonr5yk23G5iZX9qu6qmAlKJMX9n1cLugfJUm9BUDd4xZPF_WUAbA5PlLxL8xdfPorDe/s1600/Church-and-star-trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="1024" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib28B_Y-LoMie3MM66HK5HXADqPWI-c_a3Z-RnWJEPR3U5GUEQWb70B6DUstzLwshQm3u3GrYETonr5yk23G5iZX9qu6qmAlKJMX9n1cLugfJUm9BUDd4xZPF_WUAbA5PlLxL8xdfPorDe/s640/Church-and-star-trail.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6398sz4oPHvRHpZvceqLrHeCUhIvDa39v_28HOCr81XXyDWz4Mov24D_5sHFG6VN4Xy5_VwRj4FJzQ4D4nvwK-Jt3NZXMdwp5_7FlpglBLwa6F59NGHrXCTfAUQqD0fwOpQs_D2zf0F_G/s1600/Church-and-startrail-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="1024" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6398sz4oPHvRHpZvceqLrHeCUhIvDa39v_28HOCr81XXyDWz4Mov24D_5sHFG6VN4Xy5_VwRj4FJzQ4D4nvwK-Jt3NZXMdwp5_7FlpglBLwa6F59NGHrXCTfAUQqD0fwOpQs_D2zf0F_G/s640/Church-and-startrail-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Milky Way :</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Milkyway is the galaxy where we live. Inorder to capture the milkyway, one should have a camera that is capable to shoot long exposure with a high ISO. A fast lens with a large aperture is a good choice.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM3QZLJfB7jfEvwolCeEnNdqaOssdmOutzreKo6bwZq_LeITEMm7sLxtEphQZd2gwCC5_-fmrObvUFPma82gX3494SM6z8E66nMrVL2fYjXmxjvKCqy_PcAIffgo-l1Y0Sfa8dl2Ym0A4c/s1600/Milkyway-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="727" data-original-width="1024" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM3QZLJfB7jfEvwolCeEnNdqaOssdmOutzreKo6bwZq_LeITEMm7sLxtEphQZd2gwCC5_-fmrObvUFPma82gX3494SM6z8E66nMrVL2fYjXmxjvKCqy_PcAIffgo-l1Y0Sfa8dl2Ym0A4c/s640/Milkyway-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3tyoGRSTEjQeMyUmdsGjF9tZMv3R9fwlcKyfrp2Se9jrCi5GwIsXdXSwnh3JjMdS9op9NkEgCA0IC3LdiykmxJUZfhP6YtwjwFXsTzVaA9ZjzeiiX0x1AYjIAvWztWeSjiLIK5QdaT_D/s1600/milkyway-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="775" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3tyoGRSTEjQeMyUmdsGjF9tZMv3R9fwlcKyfrp2Se9jrCi5GwIsXdXSwnh3JjMdS9op9NkEgCA0IC3LdiykmxJUZfhP6YtwjwFXsTzVaA9ZjzeiiX0x1AYjIAvWztWeSjiLIK5QdaT_D/s640/milkyway-3.jpg" width="484" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenQY-DtKoQQAfDr9pDqRsOIfI8xFtLjnqQQ9p2k9doKX2OQBx94r5Em-ihZVFcJEIQZubrbL-8s7s2rftkjtncz6IvHhrFb63SJgQi7L9j-FLr81yBq5NWWh1OOmqIir6HBGpgSevfMK2/s1600/Milkyway-and-church-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1024" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenQY-DtKoQQAfDr9pDqRsOIfI8xFtLjnqQQ9p2k9doKX2OQBx94r5Em-ihZVFcJEIQZubrbL-8s7s2rftkjtncz6IvHhrFb63SJgQi7L9j-FLr81yBq5NWWh1OOmqIir6HBGpgSevfMK2/s640/Milkyway-and-church-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Haunting at the church :</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While we were shooting the night sky and enjoying the tranquility, an eerie feeling arose and we could sense something amiss. All of a sudden we heard a sound and when we went near the entrance of the church, we could not believe what we saw.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7cESoIRiGq3p6Fjv9cuQAHeXXCE70M3hJEJHrIQYcq5q1ygZxB0lN0GkWqjUDZ2gXNV_qBu-1MCD_GbHMWTE3iTUrySRyEPGuREJcvLcgGl-PrbRF4uhwNT1gTIHaJqHzNwCbFnVw-CW/s1600/shadow-of-ghost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="1024" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7cESoIRiGq3p6Fjv9cuQAHeXXCE70M3hJEJHrIQYcq5q1ygZxB0lN0GkWqjUDZ2gXNV_qBu-1MCD_GbHMWTE3iTUrySRyEPGuREJcvLcgGl-PrbRF4uhwNT1gTIHaJqHzNwCbFnVw-CW/s640/shadow-of-ghost.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This marks the end of our eerily beautiful trip to the land of the rosary church : Shettihalli.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Don't get tensed, this was one of our model who posed for us :D</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Points to remember : </b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. As I always say, please don't litter the place. The last time I went there, it was very disappointing to see the church surrounded by plastic plates and other trash around it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. If you are alone then night stay is not suggested. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Carry sufficient food and water to keep you energised.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. Neither the walls of the church need your poetry nor the people visiting the place need to know whom you love. Hence, please do not scribble on the monument and be a disgrace to the humanity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. Be a responsible citizen and help to protect the monument.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thank you</span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-38761776936548911082019-05-10T16:29:00.000+05:302019-05-11T14:35:45.598+05:30Chao Phraya Dinner cruise : An evening in Bangkok<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bangkok is one of the most beautiful cities and its nightlife is what attracts more tourists. The magnificent malls, enthusiastic tourists, vibrant vistas and everything about this city makes one exhilarating.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Among the many attractions of the city, dinner cruise in the Chao Phraya river is what many people crave for. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Not only you get to savour the delicious dinner, but you can also visually savour the fascinating architectures of the city.</span><br />
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Chaophraya Cruise</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Chaophraya Cruise consists of two decks, the lower deck is the air-conditioning room, the upper deck is the open-air. The Cruise’s interior is vividly pronounced over distinct Thai Style. They are convenient, glamorous and decorated with Thai Style embracing your dinner cruise experience at its best.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once you are onboard, you get to see the following memorials on your right hand side.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. Sheraton Hotel </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sheraton Hotel</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Memorial Bridge<br />3. Wat Pho</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. Thammasat University</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. Rama VIII Bridge </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rama VIII Bridge</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The cruise then makes a 'U' turn beneath the bridge and then heads back towards the Pier. While heading back, you can see the following monuments on your right hand side.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">7. Wat Arun</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wat Arun</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">8. Wat Kanlaya</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">9. Hilton Hotel</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">10. Peninsula Hotel</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Peninsula hotel</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">11. Asiatique</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Asiatique mall would be the last thing on your plate before the dinner cruise ends at the Sheraton Hotel river Pier. This marks the end of a 2 hour magical journey.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Highlights of the dinner cruise :</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pros:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1) You get to see the beautiful city of Bangkok</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2) The dinner is delicious </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3) You can dance to the tunes of Bollywood numbers performed by the live orchestra inhouse </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4) The upper deck offers a different perspective of the city.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5) Alcohol is served in the cruise (at extra cost)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cons:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1) If you are there on a weekend, then expect lot of tourists. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2) Due to large influx of tourists, it is not well organized, and you can see people shouting and rushing during the entry/exit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Altogether it is a different experience, and I would recommend you to relish this experience if you are in Bangkok.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tips for tourists</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. Reach early to avoid last minute rush.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Entry tickets can be obtained online </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Many travel companies have this program in their packages. If not, you can get it added.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. Respect the local culture, and help in preserving the beauty of the city.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thank You </span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-33869894891697248382018-10-28T00:18:00.000+05:302018-10-30T09:46:04.465+05:30Great Grandeur of the Grand Canyon<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I grew up watching Wild Western movies like Mackenna's Gold, The Good Bad and Ugly, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Magnificent Seven etc., (and not the wild movies that you are thinking. lol </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">😃</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://emojipedia.org/people/" ping="/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://emojipedia.org/people/&ved=2ahUKEwi1tKeG-KXeAhXXfn0KHc_iAxMQFjAAegQIAhAB" style="background-color: white; color: #660099; cursor: pointer; font-size: small;"></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you have watched any of those, you would agree with me that most of the filming was at the Canyons of USA.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ever since then, my mind yearned to see the Great Grand Canyons. Fast forward few years from then, and in early this year I visited the USA on an official trip, and I used this opportunity to witness the grandeur of these mighty rocky mountains spread over hundreds of kilometres.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is in continuation of my previous trip to <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2018/06/exploring-yosemite-national-park.html" target="_blank">Yosemite National Park</a> (If you have not seen the Yosemite blog, you can click on this <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2018/06/exploring-yosemite-national-park.html" target="_blank">link</a>). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On April 2nd (2018), we drove all the way from Yosemite National Park (California) to Las Vegas (Nevada) covering a distance of almost 480 miles. The drive was extremely beautiful as we traversed through different kinds of terrain (from Snowy mountains in Yosemite to Arid desert in Las Vegas). After driving for almost 8-9 hours, we finally hit the most happening city of Las Vegas by evening. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">April 3rd, 2018</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Early in the morning, we drove from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon. Well there are many places in this range and it depends on where you go. Grand canyon is spread across states and is really huge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since time was not on our side, we decided to visit the nearest point from LasVegas which was West rim. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You see nothing but barren landscape throughout your drive. The only waterbody that you come across on the way is the Colorado river which forms a physical boundary between Nevada and Arizona. Once you enter Arizona, you will have to move your watch ahead by 30mins as the time zone is little ahead here.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMKVUVmgRrjeSCt68e3wGsNcWQnYc2duBCMS_P2vFaI66V2ou8zRq_dV_Yo4GKlfE-CvbelEGV1_d6m7bIaNfqJ1iYRuK-wYPPjhIErjDoEGdx1_7HlTu0hKYEoFPxtNNIXwwaSpJoXZq4/s1600/grand-canyon-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMKVUVmgRrjeSCt68e3wGsNcWQnYc2duBCMS_P2vFaI66V2ou8zRq_dV_Yo4GKlfE-CvbelEGV1_d6m7bIaNfqJ1iYRuK-wYPPjhIErjDoEGdx1_7HlTu0hKYEoFPxtNNIXwwaSpJoXZq4/s640/grand-canyon-24.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrV7503zvk_WGXWlXBEXFyTT5Spx7eIY55gyRgdffcXMkIcOlAB6dTrAfOBoein2A3KIZrDJOI5FftI3m26JudSlqsXreYmJgmZpdChcaJmaAeB_GIIbSSzOah5ES5EUQCRHF_bqRKeNM0/s1600/grand-canyon-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrV7503zvk_WGXWlXBEXFyTT5Spx7eIY55gyRgdffcXMkIcOlAB6dTrAfOBoein2A3KIZrDJOI5FftI3m26JudSlqsXreYmJgmZpdChcaJmaAeB_GIIbSSzOah5ES5EUQCRHF_bqRKeNM0/s640/grand-canyon-12.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwx35_WIW1Luk8GLPRrvb5fk0scYBdnFuRqQDwtUdUwn2VBf6seb10OgL2UxbMfHOLU03D617w_AEaKX3kutn89Eml8dmQmkfy8uNZ7tkIb-kXhWA7fm8pZHfCQaKnhGHHFIevFeSK9Y6q/s1600/grand-canyon-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="1024" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwx35_WIW1Luk8GLPRrvb5fk0scYBdnFuRqQDwtUdUwn2VBf6seb10OgL2UxbMfHOLU03D617w_AEaKX3kutn89Eml8dmQmkfy8uNZ7tkIb-kXhWA7fm8pZHfCQaKnhGHHFIevFeSK9Y6q/s640/grand-canyon-22.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHK3P81Uu2FsL_zRKVMkAd87Dyj9nNUpc8UBJkQWdsWOaYFxrvyOc6dnJ-zKgSs_mgid-f3tcpKsQWU98zZZ3yYuQtulaTTRlnl7kpi-PxPtWxfFuF2p7bwgFF-t4HJCpmEDvgyXeEwrLp/s1600/grand-canyon-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="657" data-original-width="1024" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHK3P81Uu2FsL_zRKVMkAd87Dyj9nNUpc8UBJkQWdsWOaYFxrvyOc6dnJ-zKgSs_mgid-f3tcpKsQWU98zZZ3yYuQtulaTTRlnl7kpi-PxPtWxfFuF2p7bwgFF-t4HJCpmEDvgyXeEwrLp/s640/grand-canyon-21.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a designated parking area, where you will have to park your vehicles. The Grand-Canyon management committee and the Hualapai Indian tribe operates the tour by taking you in their private buses to all the famous view points at West Rim (of-coarse you have to pay :) )</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just a short distance from the National Park, within the Hualapai Tribal Reservation, is the wild Western nature of the Grand Canyon's West Rim. Though not nearly as commercially-developed as the bustling South Rim, the West still hosts nearly a million visitors each year. Still, this area is much more peaceful and less-crowded. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is the land of the Hualapai Indian tribe, who are the guardians of the Grand Canyon. The name Hualapai means "People of the tall pines".</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hualapai Ranch</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ideally this is the first stop where the shuttle bus drops you. There are some ranches of the Hualapai tribe here, where you can take a horseback ride, a mechanical buffalo ride etc.,</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Eagle Point</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As the name says, the adjacent mountain from this viewpoint looks like an Eagle with its wing spread. This is the first viewpoint that we come across in this tour, and is a pit-stop for all photo lovers and selfie maniacs .</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoHFMiL_2dBbkKL3-pobNmbx273du6rsOzpRkfeDOllHbRTOksqgD5npDJjVBJh1WlL5PdU7ftkKEZDnbM9lbPJpYQuUsJ9wgGV9J9dFzktzUqAicodZoQnecliTUaFnWvJQl4jl5CCC5k/s1600/grand-canyon-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1024" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoHFMiL_2dBbkKL3-pobNmbx273du6rsOzpRkfeDOllHbRTOksqgD5npDJjVBJh1WlL5PdU7ftkKEZDnbM9lbPJpYQuUsJ9wgGV9J9dFzktzUqAicodZoQnecliTUaFnWvJQl4jl5CCC5k/s640/grand-canyon-9.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Skywalk</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Skywalk is the most famous viewpoint of the region. Most exciting of all is the glass walkway that extends out between the canyon walls and allows guests to stare a mile through to the floor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a horseshoe-shaped cantilever bridge with a glass walkway in Arizona near the Colorado River on the edge of a side canyon in the Grand Canyon West area of the main canyon.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzPHtu5e4DsiJCLQSA4VzoK8_Wfs04o3bB5f4bsWWfVM3YgrSmtPpOgssYwCpBQKgGlIqYyezGrtpalHBsIGGP0CgAxtDBuECSKi0zuqk-IghI_j8DPWCrMOMo5-dC2-6drPKeg4TZkGiB/s1600/grand-canyon-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="1024" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzPHtu5e4DsiJCLQSA4VzoK8_Wfs04o3bB5f4bsWWfVM3YgrSmtPpOgssYwCpBQKgGlIqYyezGrtpalHBsIGGP0CgAxtDBuECSKi0zuqk-IghI_j8DPWCrMOMo5-dC2-6drPKeg4TZkGiB/s640/grand-canyon-16.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black; font-size: 14px;">Topographic maps show the elevation at the Skywalk's location as 4,770 ft (1,450 m) and the elevation of the Colorado River in the base of the canyon as 1,160 ft (350 m), and they show that the height of the precisely vertical drop directly under the skywalk is between 500 ft (150 m) and 800 ft (240 m)</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black; font-size: 14px;">Cameras or cellphones are not allowed while you are on the skywalk and you have to deposit it in a locker just before stepping on the glass. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DrbXOwUpSKvzdshvE7xRSsmJi4ocyeUJe0WpuGhqQsOV_DgqS721vGpjDgIkJNb3h4P0lJV-akvUMfjkQVrOc3LSo9Vbmf0pfd4XgygBfeySikh1bnJSXcCDrRq9eUeK-C7ILps8W4pO/s1600/grand-canyon-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="1024" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DrbXOwUpSKvzdshvE7xRSsmJi4ocyeUJe0WpuGhqQsOV_DgqS721vGpjDgIkJNb3h4P0lJV-akvUMfjkQVrOc3LSo9Vbmf0pfd4XgygBfeySikh1bnJSXcCDrRq9eUeK-C7ILps8W4pO/s640/grand-canyon-17.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This place is not for the weak hearted, because the height induces fear in you. The adrenaline starts gushing when you look down and literally your heart will come to your mouth.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Guano Point</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The last of the three viewpoints in the Grand Canyon's - West rim is the Guano point. Here you can have a 360° view of the mountains and valleys.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1Ywm9hmEr9K1fTzYABGiSt7-sTJhr3IvhmSQlYDJXFE_rOTKLJXkJ0_7Ulv3FuCEiwEPxoJ763iMicX4X-v6Mz4i3RUJ9D1lXUdKzJm8XI7T3n3LvuKgiXYY_8yCj8KKKInK9QBLrJok/s1600/grand-canyon-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1Ywm9hmEr9K1fTzYABGiSt7-sTJhr3IvhmSQlYDJXFE_rOTKLJXkJ0_7Ulv3FuCEiwEPxoJ763iMicX4X-v6Mz4i3RUJ9D1lXUdKzJm8XI7T3n3LvuKgiXYY_8yCj8KKKInK9QBLrJok/s640/grand-canyon-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Colorado river</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jutting out into the Grand Canyon, Guano Point could be one of the most stunning viewpoints in the whole of the Grand Canyon. One can walk out to the tip of the point and experience a nearly </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">360°</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> canyon view. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs8Y4qynm_8h3vVufQo5ubnITuw-4o152L79hyphenhyphenZJPVZff6L2tplBEVbJf0iknF8VTp11DQGrPMLQ94v-rzwyPmtoniox4GFjVlx-zHQof97v-Y9oYZscv3xKDnB9mI6HVCVwKGpTcnyGa3/s1600/grand-canyon-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1024" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs8Y4qynm_8h3vVufQo5ubnITuw-4o152L79hyphenhyphenZJPVZff6L2tplBEVbJf0iknF8VTp11DQGrPMLQ94v-rzwyPmtoniox4GFjVlx-zHQof97v-Y9oYZscv3xKDnB9mI6HVCVwKGpTcnyGa3/s640/grand-canyon-20.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This location at Grand Canyon West is also the home of the Hualapai Buffet (a popular package meal choice) where one can eat a sumptuous meal while sitting near the edge of the Grand Canyon. While at the point one can see a few remnants of a past age. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpBWMyZH7cov_xEvAinY3q2OVq98peux8aI90MN09n1TyDX17i1FVxmgyE55C3aXzibTQoMTxWG7Bjo4OpQmo77ddDeP8LvGBUpanSwMHIDzcGbtkEuwmvc0oTs5jZbfFLKhSSmrAAfAC/s1600/grand-canyon-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="1024" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpBWMyZH7cov_xEvAinY3q2OVq98peux8aI90MN09n1TyDX17i1FVxmgyE55C3aXzibTQoMTxWG7Bjo4OpQmo77ddDeP8LvGBUpanSwMHIDzcGbtkEuwmvc0oTs5jZbfFLKhSSmrAAfAC/s640/grand-canyon-19.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In 1958 the rights to a nearby bat cave were purchased by U.S. Guano Corp. The company constructed a $3.5 million dollar tramway system to extract the expected 100,000 tons of guano (a valuable ingredient in fertilizer) from the cave below the rim. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuR1koT8BfAJHzrAEvp0c_vUpn44IXuLxmPZ2uRs9Fpb1hTWNkr9utpW-hPTBhQ2ZGiYYTfd1mJuXj1MyMOUesTqgsEueEceC5kkYV-cP6sQs7lXUgzqTv-eUbTgCo3JVkZdGGcJiDK8o/s1600/grand-canyon-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="1024" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuR1koT8BfAJHzrAEvp0c_vUpn44IXuLxmPZ2uRs9Fpb1hTWNkr9utpW-hPTBhQ2ZGiYYTfd1mJuXj1MyMOUesTqgsEueEceC5kkYV-cP6sQs7lXUgzqTv-eUbTgCo3JVkZdGGcJiDK8o/s640/grand-canyon-18.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Unfortunately the original site survey was incorrect and the last of the mere 1,000 tons of guano was extracted by the end of 1959. Shortly after the mine petered out, a US Air Force fighter jet collided with the overhead cable system, permanently disabling it. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipH6fNuL1guTdHVciGiB1O5y55DqvtQOHFRYCzQMpqXYWmKQF7K_vr1MvkgvxGvBeCVjLwIjaPFyh2pfroRs49eYGsNnFKIZwg31b-hcz4mFbuiR-Gp-YhwzQ3FQa1X6F01szufsoISHe4/s1600/grand-canyon-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1024" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipH6fNuL1guTdHVciGiB1O5y55DqvtQOHFRYCzQMpqXYWmKQF7K_vr1MvkgvxGvBeCVjLwIjaPFyh2pfroRs49eYGsNnFKIZwg31b-hcz4mFbuiR-Gp-YhwzQ3FQa1X6F01szufsoISHe4/s640/grand-canyon-14.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The remaining towers were left intact as a monument to man's attempt to mine the canyon. As if this history was not enough to keep visitors busy, this point is also home to the Hualapai Market. This unique shopping area hosts many Hualapai artisans offering both their wares and education on their cultural significance.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt1EdOMx-44VhyphenhypheniRULnEkaMCRbLECYdv8u4U2AanQ8NyZviB_1LVx5VNzAFGOtH-wD7-1ExexaIQx_iIWQf237ZZnqJ5BdUzbr7XeAKvuL78hGTmJHxct7a7Zku-RADJXzlho6xpxohGi/s1600/grand-canyon-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="749" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt1EdOMx-44VhyphenhypheniRULnEkaMCRbLECYdv8u4U2AanQ8NyZviB_1LVx5VNzAFGOtH-wD7-1ExexaIQx_iIWQf237ZZnqJ5BdUzbr7XeAKvuL78hGTmJHxct7a7Zku-RADJXzlho6xpxohGi/s640/grand-canyon-13.jpg" width="468" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQPcl7GWbRthGCd3Exewq3gIff3K4HKYCOuW7h1Iou9-y-c7FgIx74jyObZJ6fEU6TuCpaPlgHxLOy-UPalhNbxNt3_b6x-zmHbgAgwNvz9MYYxuaiY3BxAe75uifHFbRQjMZ8QhjZ767/s1600/grand-canyon-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="1024" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQPcl7GWbRthGCd3Exewq3gIff3K4HKYCOuW7h1Iou9-y-c7FgIx74jyObZJ6fEU6TuCpaPlgHxLOy-UPalhNbxNt3_b6x-zmHbgAgwNvz9MYYxuaiY3BxAe75uifHFbRQjMZ8QhjZ767/s640/grand-canyon-7.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One can walk till the end of the cliff at the Guano point, where you can view the magical expanse of the whole Canyon's ridges & valleys. With a bag of popcorn and some coke, you can peacefully sit on the edge of the cliff and witness the beautiful sunset where the sun sets just behind the Colorado river in the valley down below.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tips to visitors :</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. West rim is the nearest point from Las Vegas and is almost 2.5 hours drive from there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. The whole land belongs to the Hualapai tribes, and the money that you pay goes to the conservation of the land.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. You would need to pay the entry fee to visit these viewpoints</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. There are multiple tour options that include Helicopter tour, Boat tour, zip lining , Viewpoint tour etc., and each has a separate cost.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. There are small cafes/restaurants near the Skywalk and the Guano point </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. Generally food will be part of your entry ticket (if Skywalk is included)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">7. You would have to pay extra to walk on the glass bridge. This can be either purchased as a package during the start of the tour, or buy separately near the sky walk entrance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">8. We paid almost $80 for the tour (that includes Entry to all these viewpoints + skywalk entrance + Food and transportation)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thank You !</span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-59643699361577368752018-06-23T19:47:00.000+05:302018-10-25T19:59:14.724+05:30Yosemite National Park<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Ever since I had seen some intriguing pictures of the 'Tunnel view' point, I always wanted to visit this amazing wonderland called Yosemite. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yosemite had been in my wish list ever since I was a kid, and always wished to see it live someday. The reason being, it is truly a world of it's own. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luckily, I got a chance to visit the United States of America during Feb 2017 due to some official work. I made plans to visit Yosemite then, but unfortunately I could not visit that time. With heavy heart, I came back to India hoping to visit it some other time.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You may call it second time lucky, as I got another chance to visit the United States of America again during March-April 2018. This time too it was an official trip, but I ensured to visit Yosemite no matter what.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Journey :</span></h3>
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<span style="color: #93c47d;"><u><b>Day 1 : March 31st, 2018</b></u></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On March 31st, 2018, we hired a Nissan car from 'Hertz' rental company in San Jose, California for around $800 for 5 days. This included an option to drop the car at different city, as we had plans to drive the car till Grand Canyon.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The hiring procedure costed us a lot of time, and we finally hit the highway by around 11.30 AM.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was our first time driving in the highway of a different country, and we were extra cautious on our driving, and made sure we don't break any traffic rules :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The winding roads took us through different vegetations from plains to grasslands to mountains. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There were a lot of garlic plantations enroute, and me being a garlic-oholic (a new word coined by me :)) stopped the car in a restaurant nearby and had a taste of the delicious Garlic Ice-cream. I never even thought in the wildest of my dreams that such a delicacy existed. But yes, it tasted awesome. Atleast for me though !! :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In no time we were out of the city limits, and could see only hills and green meadows approaching.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxdo_Z6hyphenhyphenJDPiECrxZqSS3n90c0uH32Z2DHnb-uYKDOMMhkFZvvdTRfBUoZ-s0D6xbsY1h1OwaaJZupCY7Zgefzkba_JS37qD5o3aBsMrMJusLn4JMxpPNQL6B7A9FOXhUazhGNx-2XRn6/s1600/ARJ_7926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="724" data-original-width="1024" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxdo_Z6hyphenhyphenJDPiECrxZqSS3n90c0uH32Z2DHnb-uYKDOMMhkFZvvdTRfBUoZ-s0D6xbsY1h1OwaaJZupCY7Zgefzkba_JS37qD5o3aBsMrMJusLn4JMxpPNQL6B7A9FOXhUazhGNx-2XRn6/s640/ARJ_7926.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our destination for the day was a place called "Mariposa" where we had booked the homestay through Airbnb.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Mariposa, “the Mother of Counties”, initially encompassed one fifth of the state of California. As the land filled with settlers, boundaries were redrawn until twelve present day counties emerged from the vast area. Today, Mariposa County’s legacy from these origins includes an incredible range of landscapes and a heritage of historic sites and towns.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">This range of scenery, outdoor attractions, rich history, combined with a generally sunny, moderate climate, make Mariposa County one of California’s most popular year-round vacation destinations.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yosemite’s grandeur always looms as a major attraction, but we encourage you to enjoy the many other faces of Mariposa County. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities or see one hundred fifty years of California history, without crowds and without traffic.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As soon as we entered this land, I got a sense of accomplishment. Driving in a new country with new rules and new terrain totally changed my perception of viewing things.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The town of Mariposa made me feel like I was in heaven. This place is covered by pine forests , rivers and streams , Flora and Fauna. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Innumerous meadows and grasslands added to the beauty of this county.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX471eKXdqCAYVUyfTQFMOdGBZIHUPAZWJ5wZmpa1kqMn2SVImEdoCa56fGCskNYLW8h7yXr1lH3_pjvkeM-NURV-3zJs4l8gydMOzl0vh-GgdLw2_aIbK_7EB5Kcnbzhcn630dLj4IMqr/s1600/reflections.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="1024" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX471eKXdqCAYVUyfTQFMOdGBZIHUPAZWJ5wZmpa1kqMn2SVImEdoCa56fGCskNYLW8h7yXr1lH3_pjvkeM-NURV-3zJs4l8gydMOzl0vh-GgdLw2_aIbK_7EB5Kcnbzhcn630dLj4IMqr/s640/reflections.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our homestay was further uphill from the town of Mariposa. We had to drive through forests and winding roads to reach this place. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luckily we had saved the map of the area which made it easier for us to find out our home in the jungle.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached our homestay by 5 PM which is situated deep inside the woods, and we were really surprised to see the home. It was very nicely decorated and unique. I was also surprised to see the kitchen had many masala items and powders.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We then set out to Mariposa to buy some groceries and vegetables for the next 2 days. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By the time we reached back home, it was post sunset, and all I could see was the dramatic clouds and beautiful colors of the sky.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgIOtFj6TUvBu1ES-9lskC96P8koMe5BQ2IdKsujxN93j1j5vyvv90a34m8bOz4rpjQozk3wTtijlO-SFNUYHb-1EtpbTt11stPKj0yx-I2EeDruLmo2ewLTFvwKyvhX-j_hwqM1lbWiv/s1600/Yosemite-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="603" data-original-width="1024" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgIOtFj6TUvBu1ES-9lskC96P8koMe5BQ2IdKsujxN93j1j5vyvv90a34m8bOz4rpjQozk3wTtijlO-SFNUYHb-1EtpbTt11stPKj0yx-I2EeDruLmo2ewLTFvwKyvhX-j_hwqM1lbWiv/s640/Yosemite-8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was stargazing in the meadow outside while the others were happily enjoying their drink at home.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sleep betrayed me for sometime, as I was eagerly waiting to enter the majestic valley. Yosemite valley had totally engulfed in my mind, and I could not think of anything else apart from it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We all decided to depart from our home as early as possible, so that we could enjoy the valley for the whole day. With all alarms set and our minds ready, we hit the bed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #93c47d;"><u><b>Day 2 : April 1st, 2018</b></u></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I woke up very early as soon as I heard a small bird chirping near my window. I noticed that I woke up much earlier than my alarm's sound. Wasting no time, I started to do watch birds in the estate while others were still happily sleeping.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a sumptuous breakfast prepared by Abhinav, we departed our home by 8.30AM. We were late by 1 hour than our agreed time of departure</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The cool breeze and a beautiful fragrance welcomed us into the much awaited Yosemite Valley.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The entry ticket (per vehicle) was $30 that was valid for 7 days. Once we entered the gate, I could see many cyclists encircling the hairpin curves. The granite mountains were covered with pine forests and small patches of snow here and there.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I could see a majestic waterfalls to my left hand side, and I screamed in excitement. We stopped the car nearby and proceeded towards the waterfalls.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: black;">Tueeulala Falls :</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is located on the north side of Hetch Hetchy Valley in Yosemite National Park. At roughly 880 feet it is the smaller of two large waterfalls that spill into Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, the other being Wapama Falls.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tueeulala Fall is probably the first waterfall you'll notice as you approach the parking area for Hetch Hetchy. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KmNx7ySGAKWqdjmxV4_p0G8Y4uukTEAY1UbbAJObP9TpYTtCMUP_iYalT0Y1JFw9EV7dCqVTjNGwzfJfB1Vdh5tIB5Bn-LaROJ26PpTbbTQpATICsLQbUnFEqElXYgn7keArYNcr1dPN/s1600/Yosemite-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="683" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KmNx7ySGAKWqdjmxV4_p0G8Y4uukTEAY1UbbAJObP9TpYTtCMUP_iYalT0Y1JFw9EV7dCqVTjNGwzfJfB1Vdh5tIB5Bn-LaROJ26PpTbbTQpATICsLQbUnFEqElXYgn7keArYNcr1dPN/s640/Yosemite-9.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This tall, plunging waterfall together with Wapama Falls complements Kolana Rock and the Hetch Hetchy Valley panorama in much the same way that Bridalveil Fall complements El Capitan and the Yosemite Valley panorama.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggrr8QWpCE8s-iBWrg50JbZiX15m-jAmwxWJqNkS3L_mXpGEFDMv7AoMDGrTRdywNMkq7bxCSnpXaxkRAQtLRZF1_MMjWt6A9kadARfVIfcQvOULDNyiLa43Ai2yn98Sri2d_ruQFSwvuu/s1600/Yosemite-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="683" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggrr8QWpCE8s-iBWrg50JbZiX15m-jAmwxWJqNkS3L_mXpGEFDMv7AoMDGrTRdywNMkq7bxCSnpXaxkRAQtLRZF1_MMjWt6A9kadARfVIfcQvOULDNyiLa43Ai2yn98Sri2d_ruQFSwvuu/s640/Yosemite-10.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a brief photo session, we headed to the Yosemite village where the main tourist centre is located. From this place, there is a free shuttle bus that takes us to different view points in the valley.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: black;">Mirror Lake trek</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Having no idea where to go next, we boarded the shuttle bus and alighted at Mirror lake (as the name sounded very catchy). Inorder to visit Mirror lake, one has to trek for almost 2kms from the main road. The gushing Merced river flows towards your left and the emerald forests are towards your right.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This trail begins at shuttle stop #17. The first mile of this trail is a paved service road that leads directly to Mirror Lake. You may access the loop trail from the end of the paved path. The loop follows Tenaya Creek beyond the lake, and crosses two bridges after the Snow Creek Trail junction before returning past Mirror Lake on the south side of Tenaya Canyon. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODVCLzLhZxf_Pj6lf-zRzAXCA_hYRDRPkiEhEqJW6GhvZTnOi-eLoZXes2E6L69iEHygflDw21KEXkw1OdKYXLGV24Hh18Z73CYY-BphjRVxkVPrihyphenhyphenZIaj7U0YepGjTLv7mU50LSHjro/s1600/Mirrorlake-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="858" data-original-width="1024" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODVCLzLhZxf_Pj6lf-zRzAXCA_hYRDRPkiEhEqJW6GhvZTnOi-eLoZXes2E6L69iEHygflDw21KEXkw1OdKYXLGV24Hh18Z73CYY-BphjRVxkVPrihyphenhyphenZIaj7U0YepGjTLv7mU50LSHjro/s640/Mirrorlake-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mirror Lake has little water much of the year and, while pleasant at any time of year, it is fullest in spring and early summer, when Tenaya Creek flows freely with fresh snowmelt. When water is calm, the lake offers beautiful reflections of surrounding cliffs. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Pv2__gAu_YXO92RkpDBpPvArjZu7CEypLljViH0fj0eL0QtAPPoVfQCRIZCe0TJx5B-RxOJcI1_g3BfbrZzDbxkZq8NTB4aO7cvWokZ3lZiKK0NjvZyGSxAczqxutQDFzou73VxkK-ni/s1600/Mirrorlake-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1024" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Pv2__gAu_YXO92RkpDBpPvArjZu7CEypLljViH0fj0eL0QtAPPoVfQCRIZCe0TJx5B-RxOJcI1_g3BfbrZzDbxkZq8NTB4aO7cvWokZ3lZiKK0NjvZyGSxAczqxutQDFzou73VxkK-ni/s640/Mirrorlake-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Exhibits along the trail tell the story of Mirror Lake's lake-to-meadow succession, and also highlight some of the cultural history of the area. Mirror Lake is often referred to as Mirror Meadow in late summer due to the lack of water and the influx of grasses and sandy areas.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-k1PvOSemuYbJEtP8dgAyPc4yPRbd0lmxZHSuy3MTuFR3UOY_TXsEqms8zukqFpBxHiL8JeISFmrcodZxd9jV85EqH2JlFzyVgEzglu2PtrSNZh22HjOUH-N4O0J-u1MLeJqERItw6SqX/s1600/Mirrorlake-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="677" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-k1PvOSemuYbJEtP8dgAyPc4yPRbd0lmxZHSuy3MTuFR3UOY_TXsEqms8zukqFpBxHiL8JeISFmrcodZxd9jV85EqH2JlFzyVgEzglu2PtrSNZh22HjOUH-N4O0J-u1MLeJqERItw6SqX/s640/Mirrorlake-4.jpg" width="422" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Myself at the lake</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is no safe access to the north side of Mirror Lake directly from the south side of the loop, except via bridges at the west and east ends of the trail.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By now, it was afternoon and we headed towards the main area (Yosemite village) for lunch. Enroute, the majestic "Half Dome" was standing in all its might.</span><br />
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<b><span style="background-color: black; color: #ffd966; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Half Dome :</span></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rising nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and 8,800 feet above sea level, Half Dome is a Yosemite icon and a great challenge to many hikers. Despite an 1865 report declaring that it was "perfectly inaccessible, being probably the only one of the prominent points about the Yosemite which never has been, and never will be, trodden by human foot," George Anderson reached the summit in 1875, in the process laying the predecessor to today's cable route.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmC1vmzidPxxXbfhtM6GlNzc_4z2JatJ3wPW341pLnHPdKgpbrfHG6o8A0e7kgErE_30haYEn_H74nTvu3lzTGkfwDWC-nOGNPKcxZP_tmTDaXp3mIc14Cx_PPXltY1PIBVR8sxNF4rtgK/s1600/Yosemite-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1024" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmC1vmzidPxxXbfhtM6GlNzc_4z2JatJ3wPW341pLnHPdKgpbrfHG6o8A0e7kgErE_30haYEn_H74nTvu3lzTGkfwDWC-nOGNPKcxZP_tmTDaXp3mIc14Cx_PPXltY1PIBVR8sxNF4rtgK/s640/Yosemite-27.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Much of the hike to Half Dome is an adventure into Wilderness, and, while there is nothing you can do to guarantee your safety, below you will find some tips to reduce your risk and have a safer, more enjoyable hike.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Post lunch, we headed towards the Upper and Lower Yosemite falls viewpoint. This was really a sight to behold.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: black;">Upper and Lower Yosemite :</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Part of North America's tallest waterfall, Lower Yosemite Fall is the final 320-foot (98-meter) drop. Deafening in spring and early summer when the waterfall peaks in volume, you can expect to get sprayed with water when standing on the footbridge near its base. This short, easy walk rewards with spectacular views of both Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls. This paved loop trail offers different vantage points of Yosemite Falls and Yosemite Creek, and you can stop at the many exhibits to learn more about the natural and cultural history of the area.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If walking from the Valley Visitor center, follow the bicycle path to shuttle stop #6 and begin the trail. Consider walking the loop in a clockwise direction for best views of Yosemite Falls. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Lower Yosemite</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The rumble of this waterfalls was so deafening that we could not hear anything apart from the thunderous roar of this waterfalls. The mist formed by the waterfalls was covering my lens every now and then, and I had to clean it very regularly.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9uSO8TDSjv-l2RcXFzwCmp6UY9CPtzIaQMMery9QrQXIh6T6N8RL2Foin3ddvgKHKgwvHLqp3M_4kE8Ahodd5fNmuKNTUnxWjlcPO2va6qgdQjT493cOoYYWXbIb2QjhV6HH-PW4d74P/s1600/Yosemite-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="918" data-original-width="1024" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9uSO8TDSjv-l2RcXFzwCmp6UY9CPtzIaQMMery9QrQXIh6T6N8RL2Foin3ddvgKHKgwvHLqp3M_4kE8Ahodd5fNmuKNTUnxWjlcPO2va6qgdQjT493cOoYYWXbIb2QjhV6HH-PW4d74P/s640/Yosemite-25.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By now, the last curtain was about to be rolled for the day, and we quickly proceeded towards "Tunnel view". I was very much fascinated by this place right from my childhood, where I had seen a glimpse of it in a TV programme.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was very eager to visit this place, and we made a quick drive towards the place before sunset.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHgNkv3X3Q7NQLPPdx55Scb5PqzUpBNif-U9B8B91TwU71t8Xa-3c9rl1z-Fk5ba9CsHcqPf7bKP2XLBlkpudzZ5OPOAOfSIC22pS7GwopiFfSoAqPfjaBf2jW2HkCiH2QZ14Sydw3Z4I/s1600/Yosemite-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="816" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHgNkv3X3Q7NQLPPdx55Scb5PqzUpBNif-U9B8B91TwU71t8Xa-3c9rl1z-Fk5ba9CsHcqPf7bKP2XLBlkpudzZ5OPOAOfSIC22pS7GwopiFfSoAqPfjaBf2jW2HkCiH2QZ14Sydw3Z4I/s640/Yosemite-12.jpg" width="510" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Last rays of sun kissing the granite mountain</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAe-d0-lfNxicJMGop_bZxoaGIm8Ef7yEa1SafiqE5Gf0xpM5k61S8TW7impsQQ9X03cWM9XgH-2zwcjflSLQ6esFRALOYRsQ37qLI5SdXSwOWB2z_o3VUUNw8BMGs-xOAZIfjFgu5p7rT/s1600/Yosemite-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="1024" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAe-d0-lfNxicJMGop_bZxoaGIm8Ef7yEa1SafiqE5Gf0xpM5k61S8TW7impsQQ9X03cWM9XgH-2zwcjflSLQ6esFRALOYRsQ37qLI5SdXSwOWB2z_o3VUUNw8BMGs-xOAZIfjFgu5p7rT/s640/Yosemite-13.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; text-align: left;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First view of Bridalveil waterfalls seen enroute Tunnel View</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: black;">Tunnel View :</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The view that Ansel Adams made famous, Tunnel View is a must stop for any first time visit to Yosemite Valley. Find it just outside the Wawona Tunnel on State Highway 41. No hiking is required, you simply park at one of the lots and make your way to the vista. This spot can be very popular in summer, so try to arrive early.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3KmwyFVCsOywpYd9OldoGHf1c4Kgf0KuhiUCuSA3t-H-1gHD71MfddtpmJPrhGPm4XC_RCH2MqnQ-QIoi3Nkixy-GLW9urp5HBw3ZWPc1Zt0cF59BR2sdZKfwvCYdFQ8cTTogN8Bknwq/s1600/ARJ_8316-Pano-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="1024" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3KmwyFVCsOywpYd9OldoGHf1c4Kgf0KuhiUCuSA3t-H-1gHD71MfddtpmJPrhGPm4XC_RCH2MqnQ-QIoi3Nkixy-GLW9urp5HBw3ZWPc1Zt0cF59BR2sdZKfwvCYdFQ8cTTogN8Bknwq/s640/ARJ_8316-Pano-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From this vista you can see El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. This vista changes with each season to show something new but the best times to see Tunnel View are early spring (when Bridalveil Fall is at peak flow) and winter, when the beautiful granite domes are draped in snow and mist.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpDewwShhNBqUYLzvoLE59Kb-OhBDXRN95nxgrN9hSOq_PEccrhFo91PPPDoPw3zzJ72rr_TJlGTB_7IDsSrADrhdst7Sc5pQgR7TJCxEpPgNcSWEptTx5bc_gBpuj8kZ70oZAHpXhV9c/s1600/Yosemite-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1024" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpDewwShhNBqUYLzvoLE59Kb-OhBDXRN95nxgrN9hSOq_PEccrhFo91PPPDoPw3zzJ72rr_TJlGTB_7IDsSrADrhdst7Sc5pQgR7TJCxEpPgNcSWEptTx5bc_gBpuj8kZ70oZAHpXhV9c/s640/Yosemite-4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />The scene was changing very rapidly, as the sun cast its golden light that kissed the peaks of the Yosemite Valley.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-cCQrFTETzlQjufv11Pp6hvh7jjF1bh3c2wVpBC3g7Ij8xH9AgU-yUTiVTNNXXvQV4p_1SLyrFlBcXlem-Ird9MFevXNOW4bvU0yoXXawgNZi0O1aP8qVDodu_7M0zcJKp8nJsqugS1w/s1600/Yosemite-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1024" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-cCQrFTETzlQjufv11Pp6hvh7jjF1bh3c2wVpBC3g7Ij8xH9AgU-yUTiVTNNXXvQV4p_1SLyrFlBcXlem-Ird9MFevXNOW4bvU0yoXXawgNZi0O1aP8qVDodu_7M0zcJKp8nJsqugS1w/s640/Yosemite-5.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; letter-spacing: 0.32px;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Everybody seems to have an opinion about overrated sights and places to visit. Viewpoints on highways that have amazing vistas are usually there because the view is incredible. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtif_HWkTC3fTh6dWe395y0043ZNubujIE9Cd7wh5XDmt9aJCIteXgaKCG_yYD9L5UD4hsBPdFfS2sMMxa01z2oFfFNH3WkqEKofbnV2ePpz3L8fsDHthZku6L1ZQDPoPCM8SO2EO4_WSt/s1600/Yosemite-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1024" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtif_HWkTC3fTh6dWe395y0043ZNubujIE9Cd7wh5XDmt9aJCIteXgaKCG_yYD9L5UD4hsBPdFfS2sMMxa01z2oFfFNH3WkqEKofbnV2ePpz3L8fsDHthZku6L1ZQDPoPCM8SO2EO4_WSt/s640/Yosemite-6.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; letter-spacing: 0.32px;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Every tour bus and tourist and hiker and solo traveler and everybody everywhere always stops there and rightly so. Tunnel View is jaw dropping. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlLNr9JBTbR8uDTP4klxNQmji5B17EFukBQrDn7kAgJkxX7HkscRRB_GqEsmWRToNYKCHzAMEbhZUkv7BBzxIUbYkphUk2os8rj18LM0niyAloZVb4VnqXGWL8qoQE4S7xPh87jfjwudR/s1600/Yosemite-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="663" data-original-width="1024" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlLNr9JBTbR8uDTP4klxNQmji5B17EFukBQrDn7kAgJkxX7HkscRRB_GqEsmWRToNYKCHzAMEbhZUkv7BBzxIUbYkphUk2os8rj18LM0niyAloZVb4VnqXGWL8qoQE4S7xPh87jfjwudR/s640/Yosemite-17.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Major landmarks of Yosemite such as 'El capitan' , 'Half Dome' and 'Bridalveil falls' are seen from here.</span><br />
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<b><span style="background-color: black; color: #ffd966; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">El Capitan :</span></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: 14px;">El Capitan</b><span style="font-size: 14px;"> (Spanish for </span><i style="font-size: 14px;">The Captain</i><span style="font-size: 14px;">, </span><i style="font-size: 14px;">The Chief)</i><span style="font-size: 14px;"> is a vertical </span>rock formation<span style="font-size: 14px;"> in </span>Y<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14px;">osemite National Park</span><span style="font-size: 14px;">, located on the north side of </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14px;">Yosemite Valley</span><span style="font-size: 14px;">, near its western end. The </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14px;">granite</span><span style="font-size: 14px;"></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14px;">monolith</span><span style="font-size: 14px;"> is about 3,000 feet (900 m) from base to summit along its tallest face, and is a popular location for </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 14px;">rock climbers</span><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG6X_rBCHoYzJh3T_-EAtZGdtjUZGZUyJDOarWink-uYBalaCdjxaIBZGCPfka06EJoYESmXdb8A2nULlFWIZKerupo6cn62C8T8WR-ffHhIgJl0iCK2zWlCScrACUPVD7TeSNtclkukbS/s1600/Yosemite-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="1024" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG6X_rBCHoYzJh3T_-EAtZGdtjUZGZUyJDOarWink-uYBalaCdjxaIBZGCPfka06EJoYESmXdb8A2nULlFWIZKerupo6cn62C8T8WR-ffHhIgJl0iCK2zWlCScrACUPVD7TeSNtclkukbS/s640/Yosemite-19.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: #ffd966; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Bridalveil falls :</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In spring, it thunders; during the rest of the year, look for its characteristic light, swaying flow. A paved trail leads from the parking area to the base of this waterfall, which flows year-round. Although paved, this is trail is not wheelchair accessible due to its grade.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisntLlDMg7bTUT89Wp8wndf3KZcVmiN9wybetOJ8ukyuTTNY-h-Phldm-1zPOy6rig7pfcaSjGCMKKVHouznp8VfDu5A5KimtJaL7NS_nrxkHYVOoc5V0WvT_ynUR6FZMUH_2_EwdTUEQB/s1600/Yosemite-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1024" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisntLlDMg7bTUT89Wp8wndf3KZcVmiN9wybetOJ8ukyuTTNY-h-Phldm-1zPOy6rig7pfcaSjGCMKKVHouznp8VfDu5A5KimtJaL7NS_nrxkHYVOoc5V0WvT_ynUR6FZMUH_2_EwdTUEQB/s640/Yosemite-20.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The trail to Bridalveil Fall is open year-round. When the water is at its peak in spring and early summer, you can expect to get wet! In some cases the spray is so strong, you may not even be able to easily access the end of the trail. Expect icy and very slick conditions in winter.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQBtq-9Rkjvq7ScnIx9YSjUbthhZMkg29iwpt8QsIh6RHN84-Yti0JSPf2NLr9khxQ5C5KiOrT9YuBFjaEiI-_LUKLsAXf4wKcDRKQxYCfXEbD4L8lDcjSwvpXNIC-6TcyCI8q1GObUzM/s1600/Yosemite-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="738" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQBtq-9Rkjvq7ScnIx9YSjUbthhZMkg29iwpt8QsIh6RHN84-Yti0JSPf2NLr9khxQ5C5KiOrT9YuBFjaEiI-_LUKLsAXf4wKcDRKQxYCfXEbD4L8lDcjSwvpXNIC-6TcyCI8q1GObUzM/s640/Yosemite-21.jpg" width="460" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you are a landscape photographer, then this place is a treat to your eyes and the camera. You get to photograph the majestic valley and vivid vistas using varied compositions.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRSb6ixOGX6snfgxSZTZ9V2iJj8u-JaphAm5Kj8JntfWakfYkcJWx2PJXiHV7jiKcYTxwJ4T8dqlVMRnu6amqZojAWjl5Sx86nsaq2Zl_jsRSc5lckZnLBhvY4_moZzvaUEyHBQTHqUz5l/s1600/Yosemite-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1024" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRSb6ixOGX6snfgxSZTZ9V2iJj8u-JaphAm5Kj8JntfWakfYkcJWx2PJXiHV7jiKcYTxwJ4T8dqlVMRnu6amqZojAWjl5Sx86nsaq2Zl_jsRSc5lckZnLBhvY4_moZzvaUEyHBQTHqUz5l/s640/Yosemite-22.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Sun light kissing the tree tops</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomfzOO1GsjGcSObXHVtivIPXz4eJoHm-XZO6CvxVM8AlwLWlfL0AloYjP83nBi4bdhUcqYnG2kJfTJKxMMp25M89t7kac3QvPbvfHVVc6lugZrIrUQ2mG6eV4G1bW28W4CIYPLhRzcJVb/s1600/Yosemite-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomfzOO1GsjGcSObXHVtivIPXz4eJoHm-XZO6CvxVM8AlwLWlfL0AloYjP83nBi4bdhUcqYnG2kJfTJKxMMp25M89t7kac3QvPbvfHVVc6lugZrIrUQ2mG6eV4G1bW28W4CIYPLhRzcJVb/s640/Yosemite-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjogpvnIljKUnJr0WccZI7ElO_GSOY9kndp30IYiIE-4m-ZC887BRwdQo-6BJ9pKcQv1DAUH2pDVMJ-K3cmGxWZ64aMUuTmnfpzFE2SeOcT7FPkF63F1RdL3-76Kx_epdt3Iv5frYtIj-l/s1600/Yosemite-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="1024" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjogpvnIljKUnJr0WccZI7ElO_GSOY9kndp30IYiIE-4m-ZC887BRwdQo-6BJ9pKcQv1DAUH2pDVMJ-K3cmGxWZ64aMUuTmnfpzFE2SeOcT7FPkF63F1RdL3-76Kx_epdt3Iv5frYtIj-l/s640/Yosemite-7.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Golden light kissing Half dome and another peak nearby</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you are into astro photography, then this place is tailor made for you. Just be watchful of the car lights that might ruin the image.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white;">I would highly suggest you to visit "Tunnel View" if you are visiting the Yosemite valley. Sunlight in the late afternoon creates the most striking perspective. If you can plan your day to arrive just before sunset, the transfer of light to shadow that plays out across the valley is a enchanting display. If Tunnel View is your first stop in Yosemite National Park, the classic imagination-inspiring viewpoint will make you fall in love and you will surely don’t want to leave.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Important tips : </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">1. If you are visiting "Tunnel view" , plan to be there before sunset.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">2. The "Fire falls" spectacle happens during February.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">3. Entry to the park is $30 for 7 days (Per vehicle)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">4. Food and beverages are available near the Valley visitor centre</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">5. Free shuttle buses are available in the valley</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">6. There are no hotels / homestays inside the valley, and you have to stay outside the National park. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">7. Camping is allowed at designated places only (you might have to take permission)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">8. Best time to visit : </span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">a. Spring (April to June) - Water in the valley is enormous and you can see the waterfalls plunging in its whole might</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">b. Fall (September to November) - Less number of visitors , it might snow a bit and some treks would be closed.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">c. Winter (December to March) - It will be snowing all round the valley, most of the roads and treks would be closed, but the valley will be covered with white blanket of snow (which is also a visual treat).</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: black;">Thank you</span></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-55011362473929379242017-12-29T22:29:00.000+05:302017-12-29T22:29:50.324+05:30Alcazar : The cultural cabaret of Pattaya<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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One of the most attractive and famous shows in the city of Pattaya is 'Alcazar'. Pattaya is a city that is widely known for its colourful night life.<br />
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Alcazar Co., Ltd., or broadly known as Alcazar Cabaret, was established on November 8th, 1981. Originally, with about 100 performers and staff, the former Alcazar's theatre had a capacity of only 350 seats which were not enough to welcome domestic and foreign visitors.<br />
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Nowadays, "Alcazar" is globally famous with the reputation of the best cabaret show in Thailand.<br />
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We were roaming around the streets of Pattaya and a small random thought of witnessing the spectacular show of 'Alcazar' flashed in my mind and we made this a plan. Subsequently, we hired a tuk-tuk from the Walking street and directly headed towards the 'Alcazar' arena.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylwElUFaJUA7ldnKVLw6xGWhY3YJ3j0eHtFEQcwlB51qBH72rZK9ukdGL_exc0GyYdNbqQXyOow2QGr8BiIZpBrGjPFuulqua4PV93VcZxhbiTMchr-KzeHdzDBXtgeGB2RNgnysATIWD/s1600/IMG_6775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylwElUFaJUA7ldnKVLw6xGWhY3YJ3j0eHtFEQcwlB51qBH72rZK9ukdGL_exc0GyYdNbqQXyOow2QGr8BiIZpBrGjPFuulqua4PV93VcZxhbiTMchr-KzeHdzDBXtgeGB2RNgnysATIWD/s640/IMG_6775.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once we entered the hall, we were given a glass of cool drink as a welcome gesture by the Alcazar staff.</div>
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We were glued to the seats for the next one hour or so, to watch the grandeur of this majestic cabaret.</div>
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If you want to see a great show filled with grand costumes , lighting and sound effects, then visit the Alcazar show.<br />
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Extravagant costumes, convincingly stunning ladyboys, spectacular stage sets are all part of a grander show that delights you with non-stop fantastic entertainment.<br />
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The costumes are really magical and the artists are exuberant in their art skills. It is really worth to see this show if you are in Pattaya.<br />
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Alcazar Cabaret can successfully blend the art of acting, stage design, costumes & the sequence of the shows so well to be impressed by every one of all ages. So Alcazar is a must to visit for both local & foreign visitors. Don't miss it ever!<br />
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Aided with some top-notch technology and surround-sound systems, it is a perfect way to spend an evening out with family to watch some brilliant performances reflective of not jus Thailand, but other Asian cultures as well.<br />
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With four shows every evening, the Alcazar venue also has a Thai restaurant, cafe and a souvenir shop. </div>
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From the Russian stage to Pop to Persian to Indian and even outer space, there are different themes in their act. Whether you are in for the beautiful ‘ladies’ or the show, you’ll get your money worth at Alcazar.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For your Information :</span></div>
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1) Entry Ticket starts from 600 THB</div>
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2) Alcazar venue can be reached by tuk-tuks (10 THB per person), cabs etc.,</div>
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3) Eatables are available </div>
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4) Photography is allowed, but no flash</div>
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5) You can get a photograph with these artists at a cost of 100 THB per person per artist</div>
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Thank you</div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-61457657179359902522017-12-20T15:50:00.001+05:302017-12-20T19:29:18.557+05:30Exploring the Erawan National Park <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Arguably one of the most amazing waterfalls in Thailand is none other than 'Erawan' waterfalls. It is situated in the Kanchanaburi province, and located at a distance of approximately 70kms from the town of Kanchanaburi.<br />
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If you are a person who enjoys Nature and Adventure along with peace and tranquility, then a visit to the Erawan Falls is a must. Imagine a place with emerald pools, natural caves and dense forests mixed together, and that is Erawan for you !!<br />
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I had researched about this place before going to Thailand, and the images of Erawan inspired me to visit this place.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">The Journey :</span></h3>
Early in the morning of 7th November 2017, Myself and my wife Manasa, headed towards the Kanchanaburi bus stand to board the local bus that departs to Erawan.<br />
There are local buses that departs to Erawan from the Kanchanaburi bus terminal at an interval of every one hour, and the first bus departs at 8 AM.<br />
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Though the bus was crowded, we managed to get a seat. The journey was quite thrilling, as this was the first time we boarded a local bus in Thailand.<br />
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As and when the destination comes closer, the villages and agricultural fields slowly transform into a beautiful thick forest.<br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: x-large;">Erawan National Park</span></h2>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(68, 68, 68);"><span style="color: #999999;">Erawan National Park is a 550 km2 park in western Thailand in the Tenasserim Hills of Kanchanaburi Province. Founded in 1975, it was Thailand's 12th National park.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(68, 68, 68);"><span style="color: #999999;">81% of the park is mixed deciduous forests and the rest deciduous dipterocarp and dry evergreen forest. The park consists of limestone hills with elevation between 165-996m above the sea level, plains and number of streams. The major attraction of the park is Erawan Falls, a waterfall named after the Erawan, the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology. The seven-tiered falls are said to resemble the Erawan.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Erawan falls constitute of seven different tiers of waterfalls, and to access each tier, one has to trek along a well defined trail.</span></div>
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<span class="s1">We purchased fruits and snacks along with few chocolates to help us retain energy for the whole day. </span></div>
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<u><span style="color: #6aa84f;">The seven tiers of Erawan Waterfalls :</span></u></h3>
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<span style="color: #f1c232;">1) Lai Kuen Rung</span> </h3>
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The first tier is named as <b>'Lai Kuen Rung'</b>, which is hardly a 100 metre walk from the main gate. The emerald ponds intrigue us to jump in to the water</div>
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For photography buffs, this place is tailor made.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0FHZIOe-4iRLDYA9oaxBidnfZJ_KwInVMmy26oXdomsHAXr_3W9ZOBdyCG_PhRYP1eSH7-V20q707eI2wTN_LbEcOLSzrm08M28g-uO-hbYU8QhdQgYLznjryDeBKdzc8I6Uq_KsCTQl/s1600/erawan-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="1024" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0FHZIOe-4iRLDYA9oaxBidnfZJ_KwInVMmy26oXdomsHAXr_3W9ZOBdyCG_PhRYP1eSH7-V20q707eI2wTN_LbEcOLSzrm08M28g-uO-hbYU8QhdQgYLznjryDeBKdzc8I6Uq_KsCTQl/s640/erawan-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RU4MS8_RtXsm-NEzw-kJMYVY_6s1q-e0S5BzR4hMyHE4cdE90801pUaKu9BRd4HQYySMOgChEejd1xaGoGEVcwYDkqniq_uC5kBEp7kiSxZICncCKsVN1prkeWpYxroIj4ZLPPbsmYLh/s1600/erawan-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RU4MS8_RtXsm-NEzw-kJMYVY_6s1q-e0S5BzR4hMyHE4cdE90801pUaKu9BRd4HQYySMOgChEejd1xaGoGEVcwYDkqniq_uC5kBEp7kiSxZICncCKsVN1prkeWpYxroIj4ZLPPbsmYLh/s640/erawan-16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232;">2) Wang Macha</span></h3>
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A further walk for about 150 metres will lead you to the second tier of waterfalls called <b>'Wang Macha'. </b>I personally found this as the best of all the seven tiers. You can see lots of fish in these emerald pools, and the beauty of this falls is that you can sit behind the waterfalls. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPb8l6tZt2dAQ05JKXlZ6LGl6d2pAzPB9ZtOrCk1v2CDr7Ui1yFR81TUFuigaPaS1bjEU3qg7nRBWsMLygTWaTqgole3wDL8HyfqzM6vg3AHQN2jUkdJDFaL8n9tYL-Rka-6zMWW-9Srjk/s1600/erawan-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="1024" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPb8l6tZt2dAQ05JKXlZ6LGl6d2pAzPB9ZtOrCk1v2CDr7Ui1yFR81TUFuigaPaS1bjEU3qg7nRBWsMLygTWaTqgole3wDL8HyfqzM6vg3AHQN2jUkdJDFaL8n9tYL-Rka-6zMWW-9Srjk/s640/erawan-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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None of the Thai massages are equivalent to the massage you get at Erawan. To experience this, you have to just sit on a rock and let the water do its duty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpoFoqP5IVrdgwPKB0f1DE_zno1VFhM9nUX0qNCz-PjcIy_x2ye0WFX6H-F_Q8Tvwq_7bOcdiZyifw2eBjPxfrCISTDhSGjbKfMPvhB8QHK3Tcac5dwwDjAwu0NT8c-mzzlHyGzdtpe8R/s1600/erawan-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1212" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpoFoqP5IVrdgwPKB0f1DE_zno1VFhM9nUX0qNCz-PjcIy_x2ye0WFX6H-F_Q8Tvwq_7bOcdiZyifw2eBjPxfrCISTDhSGjbKfMPvhB8QHK3Tcac5dwwDjAwu0NT8c-mzzlHyGzdtpe8R/s640/erawan-6.jpg" width="540" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Along with this you also a get a Natural Fish spa / Fish Pedicure in the package :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhehWRb8k3vseA2S-_-Nli-BCJuG71OWELqQfFBSe5CJ2h1gxClXDf-EsMDyfxqeX_aa1WnA9AVJsPTwdxioCrxOkB9YrQHDxvlsEnC8XPqu3LtotmrisFGmjlNBMiAollk3Y2Z8ZhAMt7a/s1600/erawan-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhehWRb8k3vseA2S-_-Nli-BCJuG71OWELqQfFBSe5CJ2h1gxClXDf-EsMDyfxqeX_aa1WnA9AVJsPTwdxioCrxOkB9YrQHDxvlsEnC8XPqu3LtotmrisFGmjlNBMiAollk3Y2Z8ZhAMt7a/s640/erawan-15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232;">3) Pha Nam Tok</span> </h3>
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Next comes the <b>'Pha Nam Tok'</b>, the third waterfalls which is around 1 kilometre from the entry, and about 250 metres from 'Wang Macha', the second tier.</div>
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This is a single tier water falls, that plunges from a height of around 30 feet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdrmVwxr2DaOvAehmc-mvPpL019oMw-VLCLxWRVfXTqQIg2O1FvIvImsKJeMWeQP_mytAzZ3dwFLwzq0ICZQWkNy0QdBfbwno119Q7Tv_bxGefpPbxu_s8YOj10WCzS0zAXdleYpAU0_4/s1600/Erawan-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="1024" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdrmVwxr2DaOvAehmc-mvPpL019oMw-VLCLxWRVfXTqQIg2O1FvIvImsKJeMWeQP_mytAzZ3dwFLwzq0ICZQWkNy0QdBfbwno119Q7Tv_bxGefpPbxu_s8YOj10WCzS0zAXdleYpAU0_4/s640/Erawan-7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8emgy3NumH8uZ8q16RgJjpwg6v77Qd-WgjheaJZ1kXkjka2_Hfu3rGL5auWPth1lQ1HIfOQjo7j4MKwfbE32Wm-tLy2aA4ugf5DyCxWVjAiJyl860P4kXCwcFSeitrRpYCkG1pQJ6Ld1M/s1600/Erawan-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8emgy3NumH8uZ8q16RgJjpwg6v77Qd-WgjheaJZ1kXkjka2_Hfu3rGL5auWPth1lQ1HIfOQjo7j4MKwfbE32Wm-tLy2aA4ugf5DyCxWVjAiJyl860P4kXCwcFSeitrRpYCkG1pQJ6Ld1M/s640/Erawan-11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The first image was captured from a DSLR, and the second one was with an iPhone 7 plus.</div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232;">4) Oke Nang Phee Sue</span></h3>
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About half a kilometre further, the fourth tier is seen. This is a small waterfalls, compared to the second and third tier.</div>
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A gradual ascent in the forest leads you to this serene place. This waterfalls is tranquil compared to the other ones. One can enjoy Nature and have a peaceful swim here.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAOsx9DeBlUZcRNlD36FTMWVg9jMaYsAFH0MXgBpGYxZa6neD5mkIFdefmA4kE1fDcD68c469kaLIEeIMk9wBf883u2f2HOrckAw6wYwX5IAgX-fbKIEDTUDw9VaBkSIfzAf17diob2wU/s1600/Erawan-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAOsx9DeBlUZcRNlD36FTMWVg9jMaYsAFH0MXgBpGYxZa6neD5mkIFdefmA4kE1fDcD68c469kaLIEeIMk9wBf883u2f2HOrckAw6wYwX5IAgX-fbKIEDTUDw9VaBkSIfzAf17diob2wU/s640/Erawan-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232;">5) Bue Nai Long</span></h3>
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Next comes the <b>Bue Nai Long</b>, which is the fifth waterfalls in the Erawan National Park. The altitude starts to increase from here onwards, and the gradient of the terrain is a gradual ascent. </div>
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The fifth waterfalls is almost 1.5 kilometres from the fourth waterfalls, and it takes approximately 30-40 mins to reach.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrjnAQar5bBEzlEMOFPLnJUqfHNiM5LJTGJJETBC2ZEHLXo70yrW2Ew1a45TvI_eq3Q3KLOG1I2yyUEi2OLJNZn6vmmGgw_kFsK8hKPX78cAW203Se5FPNag-pBW8ZdUX0bGPVI_xGRuqN/s1600/Erawan-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1024" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrjnAQar5bBEzlEMOFPLnJUqfHNiM5LJTGJJETBC2ZEHLXo70yrW2Ew1a45TvI_eq3Q3KLOG1I2yyUEi2OLJNZn6vmmGgw_kFsK8hKPX78cAW203Se5FPNag-pBW8ZdUX0bGPVI_xGRuqN/s640/Erawan-13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232;">6) Dong Pruk Sa</span></h3>
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Another 500 metres from the fifth water falls leads you to <b>Dong Pruk Sa, </b>which is the sixth waterfalls in the series. </div>
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From the main trail, we have to take a deviation towards the right to visit this waterfalls. Once the stairs are climbed, one has to wade in the water for about 20-30 metres to reach the sixth tier.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXlMZJdWJyjoMT0pu9Jpk864o1vc0ONRXhmc4JjsTGFuhPgjHpt_0ArrXNUZsW80f8FY6tXwHj80M9JCSs23Yz1DGKiH2dIcKFY0Koger1RrQs6m1VdbNhi-9HZZTDCDilNSY3NSXuTSz/s1600/Erawan-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXlMZJdWJyjoMT0pu9Jpk864o1vc0ONRXhmc4JjsTGFuhPgjHpt_0ArrXNUZsW80f8FY6tXwHj80M9JCSs23Yz1DGKiH2dIcKFY0Koger1RrQs6m1VdbNhi-9HZZTDCDilNSY3NSXuTSz/s640/Erawan-9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxu6Zk2m8bWUJtLRY_HHchX4E5G6XqTua6cyAagzeatOHAI-0JMARBxVIRRQnSHyVDrei2bE6GoUuFxMTgZDPe79mbyQaIGJT36RYsNZ0dUFyD2-bkBdxapQcReIXJg40SPIlCQIf09B2U/s1600/erawan-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="663" data-original-width="1024" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxu6Zk2m8bWUJtLRY_HHchX4E5G6XqTua6cyAagzeatOHAI-0JMARBxVIRRQnSHyVDrei2bE6GoUuFxMTgZDPe79mbyQaIGJT36RYsNZ0dUFyD2-bkBdxapQcReIXJg40SPIlCQIf09B2U/s640/erawan-12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232;">7) Phu Pha Erawan</span></h3>
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Return to the main trail from the sixth tier and take a deviation towards the left to reach the last tier of the Erawan falls. i.e, <b>'Phu Pha Erawan'</b></div>
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This is another half a kilometre trek from the sixth tier. Once we reached the top, we were extremely happy to have covered all the seven tiers of the Erawan falls and thereby witnessing the beauty of Nature in its raw form.</div>
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We were quite exhausted by then and started to unpack our bag to eat fruits. There were a lot of monkeys, and opening the bag without them noticing us was a herculean task.</div>
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We then traced back the steps to reach the main gate before the last bus departed. However, I could not resist swimming in this lovely pool. Hence, we returned to the second tier as quickly as possible.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqIxuvVf4bzJiQM5hXijcYW4BtF8teSNToQCwRyVExFsXFSUXYn8WOqn7BqNGhW1qPZKmw58TgJ6X9ynBqZdgx9EzvYDi0UkLW5kKnvEwrfb-MrnUc1ifqBAuRL40shqW3NyWd7AwsaSO/s1600/IMG_4943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1024" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqIxuvVf4bzJiQM5hXijcYW4BtF8teSNToQCwRyVExFsXFSUXYn8WOqn7BqNGhW1qPZKmw58TgJ6X9ynBqZdgx9EzvYDi0UkLW5kKnvEwrfb-MrnUc1ifqBAuRL40shqW3NyWd7AwsaSO/s640/IMG_4943.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After fulfilling my desire, we reached the entry point well before time, so that we could board the last bus.</div>
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Personally, this was one of the best place that we visited in Thailand, and I recommend nature lovers to visit this place. </div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Tips to Travellers / Visitors</span></h3>
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<div>
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li.li5 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; line-height: 21.0px; font: 18.0px Helvetica; color: #0000ff; -webkit-text-stroke: #0000ff}
li.li6 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; line-height: 21.0px; font: 18.0px Helvetica; color: #000000; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000}
span.s1 {font-kerning: none}
span.s2 {background-color: #f4f4f4; -webkit-text-stroke: 0px #000000}
span.s3 {font-kerning: none; -webkit-text-stroke: 0px #0000ff}
span.s4 {background-color: #f4f4f4}
span.s5 {font-kerning: none; background-color: #f4f4f4}
span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}
ul.ul1 {list-style-type: disc}
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232;">WHEN TO VISIT THE ERAWAN NATIONAL PARK</span></b></div>
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Duration: The hiking trail is fairly easy and takes about 1 hour one way to the top, without stops.</div>
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However a visit to the Erawan Falls National Park should not be rushed.</div>
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Many group tours visiting the falls rush in and out in about 2 hours. This is not enough time to enjoy the tranquil jungle setting. Forget about package tours and spend a whole day at the waterfall.</div>
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When: The Erawan National Park open gates at 7.30 am and officially close at 4.30pm.</div>
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The Erawan Falls gets busy on weekends. If possible it is best to visit the waterfall during the week. Arrive early in the morning and you’ll have the jungle to yourself.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232;">HIKING TRAILS AT ERAWAN NATIONAL PARK</span></b></div>
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There are lot of birding trails in and around the park. If you are observant and lucky enough, you get to see lot of chirping beauties along with mammals like monkeys, langurs and Elephants.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232;">CAVES</span></b></div>
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The Erawan National Park is also known to a number of caves. </div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Phartat Cave</div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ta Duang Cave</div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Mi Cave</div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Reua Cave</div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Wang Bah Dan Cave</div>
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Contact the information centre to visit these caves.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232;">HOW TO GET FROM BANGKOK TO ERAWAN NATIONAL PARK</span></b></div>
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Stage 1: The first stage of getting from Bangkok to Erawan National Park is getting to Kanchanaburi. Unless you have your own private transport these are your options:</div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Train – Trains depart from Bangkok’s Thonburi train station at 7.50am and 1.55pm. The trip takes about 3 hours</div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Bus<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> and Minivan – This is the quickest way of getting from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi. Minivans regularly depart from Mochit bus terminal, and costs 120 THB per person</div>
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Stage 2: Kanchanaburi to Erawan National Park</div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Motorbike – The ride takes about one hour and you have total freedom with time. Motorbikes can be rented for 300 THB per day in Kanchanaburi.</div>
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<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Bus – There is a dedicated bus operating from Kanchanaburi to Erawan National Park. Buses depart the Kanchanaburi Bus Station for the park almost hourly from 8am to 5pm. They also return to Kanchanaburi almost hourly. The public bus takes about 1 hour each way and costs 50 THB.</div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">ENTRY FEE :</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "tahoma";"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-size: 14px;">The entry fee collected by the Erawan National Park authorities is 300 THB for a foreign national, and 60 THB for a Thai National.<b> </b></span></span></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">ETHICS TO BE FOLLOWED :</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "tahoma"; font-size: 14px;">1. Do not litter the place. It is protected very carefully and beautifully.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "tahoma"; font-size: 14px;">2. Do not shout, as it may disturb the fauna of the national park and other tourists as well.</span></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Hope you enjoyed the blog. </span></b></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Thanks for viewing !!</span></b></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-83379476772016636302017-10-22T22:37:00.001+05:302020-09-20T19:05:46.388+05:30Face to Face with the Horse's face : Baamikonda and Kalchukki (Part 2)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9hrj_Qa_jdARUk5EoFsBLI9CNb1TnORnrAwo42-3fw2s0w-2YA-bMMsySwb5a9oCFa1Y3SKXd2ZSIjrWLv2GxVH-mDi_xmcgSp2daQREPoUX5by2uxb-yx41QMq5AlFCKhbyBqFGL_5C/s1600/DSC_2007-NEW.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="1024" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9hrj_Qa_jdARUk5EoFsBLI9CNb1TnORnrAwo42-3fw2s0w-2YA-bMMsySwb5a9oCFa1Y3SKXd2ZSIjrWLv2GxVH-mDi_xmcgSp2daQREPoUX5by2uxb-yx41QMq5AlFCKhbyBqFGL_5C/s640/DSC_2007-NEW.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">While the memories and leech bites of our previous day's trek to <a href="https://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2017/10/face-to-face-with-horses-face-kudremukh.html" target="_blank">Kudremukh</a> was still afresh, we set out on another small hike in the Baamikonda range to a peak called Kalchukki. </span><br />
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<b><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Day 2 : Sep 3rd, 2017</span></b><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The whole team was energised after a wonderful sleep, and were eager to trek the Kalchukki peak. This is a very small trek of around 3 kms and takes almost 1-2 hours to reach the mountain top from "Shola Heights" homestay</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We started the trek by 7.30 AM after sipping a cup of hot coffee.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1ZEwJiRWLalS8w6FZes7Y4EcuRKdFoO8VEL75c-DZKYR35Nj8A4kakq1jVGtCvzOtiXJehRgcAbRdOX7yqVfR_a87W4g0lCXnmpqvmjemYYWtdwNzIfTKuyavZliAuziioT63WLH6aeX/s1600/DSC_1981.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="1024" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1ZEwJiRWLalS8w6FZes7Y4EcuRKdFoO8VEL75c-DZKYR35Nj8A4kakq1jVGtCvzOtiXJehRgcAbRdOX7yqVfR_a87W4g0lCXnmpqvmjemYYWtdwNzIfTKuyavZliAuziioT63WLH6aeX/s640/DSC_1981.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Since there was dew , the first 200 metres from "Shola Heights" homestay was very slippery and we had to cross it very carefully. The presence of algae made it even more challenging.</span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Once this was crossed, a well defined route led us to the top of a small hillock. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Kalchukki is another small hillock nestled in the magnificent ranges of the Kudremukh mountains. These are small gems that are etched in the emerald necklace of the Western ghats in India. Western ghat mountain ranges constitutes one of the the top vegetation of rain forests and is home to many endangered species of flora and fauna. Western ghats is classified under the UNESCO world heritage sites and is a top biodiversity hotspot. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The step farming of paddy crops was done beautifully on the opposite hillock and the view was very scenic.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOB6RIBdotJVGF5lyS6Cj3SkRzGLq0ZtnvGRLzVi_2cGpVJJdeQpcMfRdqvnRE8y43FynHjiXnnlyHa6Ru5-YOCeXJjc5cAlr8ud_Ypkoe-jbZ-KawaSkEsC6LV6h3QAvHowoKd3GvZ2N/s640/DSC_1987.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The trek is along the ridge of a small hillock in the Baamikonda mountains, and we have to move through local plantations.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Once we reach to the top of the hillock, one becomes a mute spectator of the jaw dropping mountain ranges of Kudremukh. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We then proceeded towards the peak. If you are starting the trek from "Shola Heights", then the time taken to trek is reduced greatly. You directly start hiking from the grassland and then venture to the Shola forests, and then again ascend in the grasslands to reach the peak.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Kudremukh peak </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RaKz6zpgf4QsxAa2E4KRxHRsn08aIwsMW-QboR2aw0jM5TX0hWueohNMNfU-vn6UWXpSit8oP2ZFeBpLcoCYt9q3jp4gh_Fzeoo94DFM5vj0cEkA2ck-H_oqftkWGKcI0MPqZu-SniLj/s1600/DSC_2029.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="1024" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RaKz6zpgf4QsxAa2E4KRxHRsn08aIwsMW-QboR2aw0jM5TX0hWueohNMNfU-vn6UWXpSit8oP2ZFeBpLcoCYt9q3jp4gh_Fzeoo94DFM5vj0cEkA2ck-H_oqftkWGKcI0MPqZu-SniLj/s640/DSC_2029.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The color of the grasslands had many hues of green and slight tinges of red. This balanced the contrast of the varied saturations. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The terrain was almost neutral with very few ascents and descents. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiule9rqQ0663blK3yUs-R0UBnvCI5o-ftpt5ZYvg2W21HIl44RKBw7-8F6Z0lEo20rzKaF9lhIn7UJcsxtzEZQd88yeXI5MIrSkXQ_kzbLoWX-KsiYwTa5g3IgcTxw5FNvq3s72zqilXD/s1600/IMG_1861.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiule9rqQ0663blK3yUs-R0UBnvCI5o-ftpt5ZYvg2W21HIl44RKBw7-8F6Z0lEo20rzKaF9lhIn7UJcsxtzEZQd88yeXI5MIrSkXQ_kzbLoWX-KsiYwTa5g3IgcTxw5FNvq3s72zqilXD/s640/IMG_1861.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We reached the peak within 1.5 hours, and spent sometime at the top. The cool breeze and mist accompanied us. The clear view of Kudremukh range was invisible within no time.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> At the top of the peak</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> Team on the peak </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The most funniest part of the trek was the amount of leeches this small route had. Not even one leech bit me the previous day. But the amount of leeches in Baamikonda-Kalchukki was huge.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">What fun is it, if there is not even a single leech bite on your trek in the western ghats ?</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I feel having a leech bite denotes the successful completion of one's trek :)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Right from Baamikonda, a dog accompanied us. In no time, this lovely animal became a pet to everyone and was ultimately loved by all. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We came back to the homestay by 11.00 AM, and departed the place after having a wonderful breakfast at "Shola Heights".</span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The jeep dropped us to Balgal where the tempo was waiting for us.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We then proceeded towards "Sri Annapoorneshwari temple" at Hornadu which is approximately 20kms from Balgal. The wonderful darshan of the goddess and the mouth watering lunch at the temple soothed our mind , soul and stomach as well. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">By 2.15 PM, we resumed our journey towards Bangalore and enroute we visited the famous temple of 'Channakeshava' at Belur.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The Chennakeshava Temple, also referred to as Keshava, Kesava or Vijayanarayana Temple of Belur, is a 12th-century Hindu temple in the Hassan district of Karnataka state, India. It was commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 CE, on the banks of the Yagachi River in Belur also called Velapura, an early Hoysala Empire capital. The temple was built over three generations and took 103 years to finish.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The temple complex at Belur is one of he finest examples of Hoysala Architecture, and even today the intricate carvings and the statues of 'Darpana Sundari' - Shila balike are world famous.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The team at Belur </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #6fa8dc;"><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">What happened on Day 1 ??, click </span><span style="color: white;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2017/10/face-to-face-with-horses-face-kudremukh.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: white;">here</span></a> </span><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">to know more.</span></i></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Location :</b> Baamikonda , Chikmagalur(District) , Karnataka (State)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Distance from Bangalore :</b> 320 Kms</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Trek starting point :</b> Mullodi </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Trek difficulty Level </b>: Easy</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Kalchukki trek distance</b> : 3-4 Kms (One way)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Time to trek </b>: 2 hours (one way)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Best time to trek</b> : Sep to Jan</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Contact Number </b>: Raje Gowda, 9481179008(M)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Jeep charge </b>: 600-800 per group ( from Balgal to Mullodi)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Nearest bus stop</b> : Balgal , Kalasa</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #93c47d;"><b><i>Shola Heights</i> </b></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">Baamikonda</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Samse - 577124</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Chikmaglur district</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Karnataka</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">email : sholaheights@gmail.com</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">www.sholaheights.com</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Phone : 9449620070</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b style="color: #93c47d;"><i>Summiters Adventures</i></b></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #93c47d;"><a href="http://summiters.net/">https://summitersadventures.com/trip_kudremukh.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Vishwanath : +91 97403 60365</span></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #cc0000;">Please do not litter. Save Nature and Wildlife</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #cc0000;">Happy trekking !!</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #6fa8dc;">Thank you</span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-69510149333715350302017-10-22T00:09:00.002+05:302020-09-20T19:06:35.821+05:30Face to Face with the Horse's Face : Kudremukh (Part 1)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbE2vFH4q8VygMs2QCtrwVDWpXwMrVIKuwNBFzju-yKvDgoTBWoWDvV3PnQi9_AkB_MjBlBABZzprAlvPTaMfhbBmXdFIRJwl40k9i1hFutFj74V_1DbSx9Fm-Sa5FKWoY_lKGVV4o3AhJ/s1600/DSC_1666-NEW.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbE2vFH4q8VygMs2QCtrwVDWpXwMrVIKuwNBFzju-yKvDgoTBWoWDvV3PnQi9_AkB_MjBlBABZzprAlvPTaMfhbBmXdFIRJwl40k9i1hFutFj74V_1DbSx9Fm-Sa5FKWoY_lKGVV4o3AhJ/s640/DSC_1666-NEW.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was my first trek after my wedding, and luckily I was able to make it for the Kudremukh trek, that was hosted by <b><a href="https://summitersadventures.com/trip_kudremukh.html">Summiters Adventures</a> </b>led by Mr. Vishwanath.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">My wife (Manasa) accompanied me for her debut trek in the ghats. It was totally a new experience for her, as she had never ventured into such terrain before.</span></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I could see her excitement while we were preparing for the trek even though she was worried about the cute leeches of the ghats :)</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">All things went as planned, and we departed Bangalore on <b>Sep 1st, 2017 </b>around 10.30 PM in a Tempo traveler. Myself and Manasa boarded the vehicle near Jayadeva hospital, and eventually many trekkers joined us.</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">It was wonderful to meet a whole new bunch of people from different walks of life, and hearing their experiences added to the joy. </span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">A small jerk in the vehicle after a few hours made me realise we were in Hassan. In no time from there, we reached the village of Balgal.</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Day 1 : Sep 2nd, 2017</b></span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Balgal is a small sleepy hamlet situated in the western ghats of Chikmagalur district which is almost 10 kms from Kalasa. We alighted at Balgal by around 6 AM, and waited for the 4x4 jeep to pick us. </span></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Balgal is the last place where buses or tempos ply, and from here onwards one has to go in a 4x4 jeep. The road from Balgal to Mullodi(which is further 7kms) is narrow & rocky.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Since our accommodation was at <b>"Shola Heights"</b>, the staff had come to pick us up from Balgal. The journey was literally a back breaking experience and by the time we reached <b>"Shola Heights"</b>, I had to count if my bones were intact.</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">However, the view from <b>"Shola Heights" </b>reduced my pain and stimulated my ecstasy at the same time.</span></span><br />
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<i><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">"When the golden rays of the sun kisses the mighty mountains, everything turns magical "</span></i></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I had never seen a rice field isolated in the ghats.</span></span><br />
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<b><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Shola Heights :</span></b></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Shola heights</i></b> is a unique home stay nestled on the fringes of the Kudremukh national park. It offers very nice view of the Kudremukh peak and the adjacent hills surrounding it. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">Kudremukh peak and the "Shola Heights"</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The breakfast comprised of fruits , Uppittu (Upma) , Shavige (Vermicelli) and Gasgase Payasa (porridge). These delicacies filled our stomach and triggered the energy levels of the team.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">A small briefing session led by Mr. Ananth made the team aware of what to expect, how to react in case of a leech bite and overcome the fear of creepy reptiles in the jungle. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Most of the team members were new to trekking and I could see their excitement grew as Ananth described the forest.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">With packed lunch in our bags, we were ready to summit the peak of Kudremukh</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-size: small;">The Team :</span></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsK5ph5e3aEeDCUkN7JKDWyycAZd3o1ZQnlJetEiEqAUCP5TpsYD1ecH-LJP4DZxfScfYvku8PTjGwB6IIa9TUqFf1Xfwh5V2F_KBLyCRwoQuVvo46O1S4YwEPgPtleuaHlFvgHlDp5Pqk/s1600/IMG_1514.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="702" data-original-width="1024" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsK5ph5e3aEeDCUkN7JKDWyycAZd3o1ZQnlJetEiEqAUCP5TpsYD1ecH-LJP4DZxfScfYvku8PTjGwB6IIa9TUqFf1Xfwh5V2F_KBLyCRwoQuVvo46O1S4YwEPgPtleuaHlFvgHlDp5Pqk/s640/IMG_1514.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">(From L to R : Sundar , Parul , Shreya , Ramya , Ananth , Vishwanath, Agni , Amrita , Manasa , Arjun)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-size: small;">Surmounting the Horse's Face :</span></h3>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Kuduremukha(1894 m) is a mountain range and name of a peak located in Chikkamagaluru district, in Karnataka, India. It is also the name of a small hill station situated around 20 kilometres from Kalasa. The name Kuduremukha literally means <b>‘Horse-face' </b>in Kannada and refers to a particular picturesque view of a side of the mountain that resembles the horse's face. It was also referred to as 'Samseparvata', historically since it was approached from Samse village. Kuduremukha is Karnataka's 3rd highest peak after Mullayangiri and Baba Budangiri.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">One has to take permission from the Forest department office situated at Mullodi near Rajappa's house. Once the entry fee and guide charges are paid, we are allowed to trek to the peak.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WuzqQ9Uf0etZ3kvtKnC61Qb8eW1akmuf-Wp2GQv1kA8wz9beSPv_OpUwcfbDo3oKvHyDs3Jv1o3-1jFWLJJepQ2TgpN-R6HcNV7GdqGO76-FrdTVXVBfJEcRV_rzOHGyqjuRkiOL6r6f/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-10-14+at+2.11.55+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WuzqQ9Uf0etZ3kvtKnC61Qb8eW1akmuf-Wp2GQv1kA8wz9beSPv_OpUwcfbDo3oKvHyDs3Jv1o3-1jFWLJJepQ2TgpN-R6HcNV7GdqGO76-FrdTVXVBfJEcRV_rzOHGyqjuRkiOL6r6f/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-10-14+at+2.11.55+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The back gate from the forest department office leads one to the peak. However, there are some small routes that appear to be marked as a proper pathway, but they do not lead to the peak. These routes are used by villagers to graze their cattle. Hence it is advised to go in a group with a guide.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The initial path is well marked and there are no gradations for the first few kilometres.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBes3UjC_PJUVJ3c3YjGVZ2wTjwV8cr6FxUZ8sYwKzKmXMwPGrtMoNBrnZkjEQldoKkA0DwWikss31Usx-HQ8gl7lbWEiRFaG-dT-IIBA4SNSL5DXZH2X6RZdhyJJ_IRLADkWfkA6ccSta/s1600/DSC_1791.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBes3UjC_PJUVJ3c3YjGVZ2wTjwV8cr6FxUZ8sYwKzKmXMwPGrtMoNBrnZkjEQldoKkA0DwWikss31Usx-HQ8gl7lbWEiRFaG-dT-IIBA4SNSL5DXZH2X6RZdhyJJ_IRLADkWfkA6ccSta/s640/DSC_1791.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: black; font-size: small;">There is a small stream that flows elegantly in the valley below and the sound of the gurgling water can be heard from a long way. This stream is one of the many sources of water, where one can refill their water bottles and energise their souls.</span></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Since there were newbies in the team, we had to match the pace with them. Though our guide asked us to walk fast, frequent water breaks reduced the pace.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The streams were flowing with all its might, and crossing them made it challenging.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Gang of girls crossing the stream.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">As we were crossing the stream, there were few jumping jacks on the rocks below. On further inspection, I could see small croaking frogs jumping here and there.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkef73cki7LUse1IlZ0h84NmDoGOdacOhY_kekpW3AVZvH5lp3OGWHxq-VaaBOfi-iLvZSi6wqKLF50Xj5afGGa0w_GRs_A7erxipPLOmkrfGZewww-Vxxw7FTVNdBzr2pu-e4XnD3INxK/s1600/DSC_1773.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="1024" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkef73cki7LUse1IlZ0h84NmDoGOdacOhY_kekpW3AVZvH5lp3OGWHxq-VaaBOfi-iLvZSi6wqKLF50Xj5afGGa0w_GRs_A7erxipPLOmkrfGZewww-Vxxw7FTVNdBzr2pu-e4XnD3INxK/s640/DSC_1773.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The most challenging part of the trek was to cross the streams, and even more challenging was to cross it without wetting our shoes. On some occasions this was pretty difficult to achieve, and I had to dip my shoe in the chilling water. </span></span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The water in my shoe made a 'Kluch Kluch' sound every-time I walked. Though this was irritating initially, I got adjusted to it every-time I crossed a stream</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEYspsCvcrdmcHNgP_ERviVJmiQ7wAtyPFseiMlY-vkACNWPa3Cakacs45HPU6W0mQjzxaw8iHmj8XdBW4lACdPE5VwJaRXlpJHeZlchmZZIjyWSQvcC-V7M2eUJxwtK3OmJ4CU4yOf67/s1600/DSC_1582.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="950" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEYspsCvcrdmcHNgP_ERviVJmiQ7wAtyPFseiMlY-vkACNWPa3Cakacs45HPU6W0mQjzxaw8iHmj8XdBW4lACdPE5VwJaRXlpJHeZlchmZZIjyWSQvcC-V7M2eUJxwtK3OmJ4CU4yOf67/s640/DSC_1582.jpg" width="592" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Once the stream was crossed, the gradient of the terrain changes gradually. It becomes a steady ascent till the grasslands.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Thirumaleguppi and Irumaleguppi peaks were quite intriguing, and can be easily seen on the way to Kudremukh. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygjAjudKl46xKmmBbE9ePJKPWZWs3SG8GRS4bQcW90P-w0M-iUALlpgG_0pARsvXNG97GV8Xhz6aDgVFpcZCo69w_Q4zBE7c2LSkkrzM_PrOMzFQTb9mQs0TgcxiKet1qkFAh0J5ZEGnL/s1600/DSC_1611.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="617" data-original-width="1024" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygjAjudKl46xKmmBbE9ePJKPWZWs3SG8GRS4bQcW90P-w0M-iUALlpgG_0pARsvXNG97GV8Xhz6aDgVFpcZCo69w_Q4zBE7c2LSkkrzM_PrOMzFQTb9mQs0TgcxiKet1qkFAh0J5ZEGnL/s640/DSC_1611.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> Peeping Tom - Horse is seem to be peeping :)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YsCjmxwmqBM3WWtHzE-ArngJhfdgRiZQ-VMOu7g6pDwn-u96ys5FtidOK_sLNe1KnIwa8KLUPie42LmjAj5Uv2yrRBMR4VNzAhVDDPrNaecgQtsmmpk6Xg_VJy10ChSCZgkJUBUaiNcV/s1600/DSC_1696.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="1024" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YsCjmxwmqBM3WWtHzE-ArngJhfdgRiZQ-VMOu7g6pDwn-u96ys5FtidOK_sLNe1KnIwa8KLUPie42LmjAj5Uv2yrRBMR4VNzAhVDDPrNaecgQtsmmpk6Xg_VJy10ChSCZgkJUBUaiNcV/s640/DSC_1696.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Blue tiger moth seen on the way</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The shola forests slowly transformed to emerald grasslands. The vast green carpets welcomed us with a cool breeze and slight showers of rain.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Even though the peak seemed near to us, it was very far.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Monsoons had turned the whole range into a paradise and you can see nothing but greenery.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The sheer beauty of trekking in monsoons is the mixture of Temperature & Colors. While the temperature soothes your body, the color of the forest soothes your eyes.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZdGnL6E08y0ocM4ctPQW2pbIH4jALWS2mZU_oIDXVLxDDoDKkddjjWKq8urszt3vurufco-cnhwRIaKDHNoaTai1GnkuBeRpyRTkJSn9tIbF8GXGW9gkGDwmgD4JtUqeGws8GrQpT1YG/s1600/DSC_1846.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="683" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZdGnL6E08y0ocM4ctPQW2pbIH4jALWS2mZU_oIDXVLxDDoDKkddjjWKq8urszt3vurufco-cnhwRIaKDHNoaTai1GnkuBeRpyRTkJSn9tIbF8GXGW9gkGDwmgD4JtUqeGws8GrQpT1YG/s640/DSC_1846.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> Flower offering to the Horse god</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> Onti mara - One of the many rest points</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Our guide was forcing the team to walk fast considering the climate and time in hand. However, by the time we reached 'Onti Mara' - lone tree , it was almost 12.30 PM, and it was too late to scale the peak and return the same day(as camping is not allowed). </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPyZhdSMP_ULenlIOlvOnmXCRF_O08WuYTqJ1PwmQSDUOBsXAsjmYOH3xGdRljm7khcuU05GtzSEKtqz1ARU6d9lgYiuzgIqdlY2c3FLz57VmoNA2IlNbEysy_Yq1tEe3PctDc_Qf2E0cO/s1600/DSC_1882.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="1024" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPyZhdSMP_ULenlIOlvOnmXCRF_O08WuYTqJ1PwmQSDUOBsXAsjmYOH3xGdRljm7khcuU05GtzSEKtqz1ARU6d9lgYiuzgIqdlY2c3FLz57VmoNA2IlNbEysy_Yq1tEe3PctDc_Qf2E0cO/s640/DSC_1882.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">You can see few trekkers resting under the 'Onti Mara'. The peak is almost 5 kms and another 1.5 hours trek from this point. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9yPB1oCOkY_WTitmKLfBELqA_ySGl4OnKKDMlGb6rcLfcNEKUSKMDiSOsojyCtp9_7EEybcXAhfBxKhtZgsHVzAQEDaNhxrqA9OWl0IH904lf8WOHC5x7ia_TIqGzD9cU7J6MwVD9BdUZ/s1600/DSC_1883.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1024" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9yPB1oCOkY_WTitmKLfBELqA_ySGl4OnKKDMlGb6rcLfcNEKUSKMDiSOsojyCtp9_7EEybcXAhfBxKhtZgsHVzAQEDaNhxrqA9OWl0IH904lf8WOHC5x7ia_TIqGzD9cU7J6MwVD9BdUZ/s640/DSC_1883.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Considering the time delay and growling stomach, we had to halt there.'Onti mara' was our pit stop, and it provided us with lot of photo opportunities.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">While few of the team members decided to continue the trek towards the peak, few others resisted going ahead. It was about to rain heavily, and light began to fade.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUCFmKVb-WCigoHYF1ah6-OjEHnW24YOASKnLP-PNhSctYlZE71PCwe8kxGHgYwT2uVhX5523e7OYCrE8JtULczwUGZTdEohELDECek68omWsz2_LthGo9xcSVZx7YwbZQTXBrZyZBa6ud/s1600/DSC_1936.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUCFmKVb-WCigoHYF1ah6-OjEHnW24YOASKnLP-PNhSctYlZE71PCwe8kxGHgYwT2uVhX5523e7OYCrE8JtULczwUGZTdEohELDECek68omWsz2_LthGo9xcSVZx7YwbZQTXBrZyZBa6ud/s640/DSC_1936.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The lunch comprised of Puliyogre , Pakoda and Banana. Trust me, when you are exhausted, even a small candy will be equivalent to nectar. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The joy of simple yet sumptuous lunch made the team to jump in ecstasy.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhMYZRwdbsid9tcORSpbsc3jiEnlDebH5PsyQz3SuFGpJEUs2hoOtYkoLbyGk0SM6EUUWE0PXg2eH8yciHVYneIsAQ4pubg7gXHQ4eI_n5GExzVk5ylhaXR7c6gneIYk5jUBSg5Qt7k5n/s1600/IMG_1684.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1024" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhMYZRwdbsid9tcORSpbsc3jiEnlDebH5PsyQz3SuFGpJEUs2hoOtYkoLbyGk0SM6EUUWE0PXg2eH8yciHVYneIsAQ4pubg7gXHQ4eI_n5GExzVk5ylhaXR7c6gneIYk5jUBSg5Qt7k5n/s640/IMG_1684.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> Enjoying the Emerald gardens</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Welcoming the rain</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Enjoying the beauty of the forest , relishing the delicious food, and spending time with my better half diminished my vain.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUuixJuAhs-8IixXtcLXGxZxHoKRKM0lA-vS74kdv_u1Iaj_PUDpQnwzRfyw2_vKBpAh3uHa2n4_LPNd-8M2o_LmP7Uqh7nxwRhbjIcEuxBS9FtAAsjaeWeYMwqCm9fRyKMLq6DRB2Xn-R/s1600/IMG_1625.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="1024" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUuixJuAhs-8IixXtcLXGxZxHoKRKM0lA-vS74kdv_u1Iaj_PUDpQnwzRfyw2_vKBpAh3uHa2n4_LPNd-8M2o_LmP7Uqh7nxwRhbjIcEuxBS9FtAAsjaeWeYMwqCm9fRyKMLq6DRB2Xn-R/s640/IMG_1625.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7svwuKBukDhyxM2G-5b0cvWr3Q74FZm6Vq77sbTcfqBSIBVWCFyBlEihis4frrgxji_y1L186Qyk-YPQZASbSHi2NBr5do5widqUeZMUYcBXr2uZhkElHwbC7qV0_g3Pl7VGEm_LqhY6N/s1600/IMG_1630.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="1024" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7svwuKBukDhyxM2G-5b0cvWr3Q74FZm6Vq77sbTcfqBSIBVWCFyBlEihis4frrgxji_y1L186Qyk-YPQZASbSHi2NBr5do5widqUeZMUYcBXr2uZhkElHwbC7qV0_g3Pl7VGEm_LqhY6N/s640/IMG_1630.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">A few of us started to descend early sensing the circumstances. However, 4-5 members from our group wanted to summit the peak, and they went ahead.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAy15kLbjZPPZAu-VrvCR52yklImN52yzGfD16QXzbuxgZgQ3I-ye7rXiZhA6F3JgmGKrstQR7z282vFviAzC3FxNvQgiBFeFiMzugx1hu682nQE7DGS9r1PpbOkC9vRJaqn4Cg_kkyZe/s1600/IMG_1749.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAy15kLbjZPPZAu-VrvCR52yklImN52yzGfD16QXzbuxgZgQ3I-ye7rXiZhA6F3JgmGKrstQR7z282vFviAzC3FxNvQgiBFeFiMzugx1hu682nQE7DGS9r1PpbOkC9vRJaqn4Cg_kkyZe/s640/IMG_1749.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I regret for not having trekked the peak, but cherish the moments we spent near the place. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NALQXAMBovfqeTi-agINJjrssGS5dAJmf9118jkxCoLhBiKHsER3Dr7fj9h36wx05EXqLORZ7HFEEaGQhZd4XgBUMccTgbhc0wMs_0KfkjXMr_PkomSxZdoT9Gk2Q2STF1Tpg8ofph-8/s1600/IMG_1754.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="1024" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NALQXAMBovfqeTi-agINJjrssGS5dAJmf9118jkxCoLhBiKHsER3Dr7fj9h36wx05EXqLORZ7HFEEaGQhZd4XgBUMccTgbhc0wMs_0KfkjXMr_PkomSxZdoT9Gk2Q2STF1Tpg8ofph-8/s640/IMG_1754.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The descent was pretty challenging, as the downpour was constant. We had to halt for sometime and wait for the rain to recede and mist to decrease.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHOAQc6zBKOoJgx8VWsygEQ-kWMwiHBclL4jT_R2F4g0VFaAB9UfUTM18PH-8pQdxI8dqmWOZq4xyOmkN4ZOlIcZ4W44hJh7YSiNWgt0zg-6Y5045gBIX19oRtBcwPVAmgpp-PLrxvZnZ/s1600/IMG_1774.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHOAQc6zBKOoJgx8VWsygEQ-kWMwiHBclL4jT_R2F4g0VFaAB9UfUTM18PH-8pQdxI8dqmWOZq4xyOmkN4ZOlIcZ4W44hJh7YSiNWgt0zg-6Y5045gBIX19oRtBcwPVAmgpp-PLrxvZnZ/s640/IMG_1774.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Infact, the weather was playing a game of hide and seek with us. By the time we moved out of the Shola forest, the weather became clear. Kudremukh trail is abundant with water sources such as small rivulets & streams. That's the reason why Kudremukh is one of the most beautiful trek in the Western ghats.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5EtoxgS1Q4_OljxZTOBWggqwJVzzTmkbaLeVILbEApKN_ARyjXuivK_Zso2rFopd7RHYC_Q1Stj6DKzWF97fhyphenhyphenLjHuFfPKUVgI97I5aDPWh9KohgxsqOmp-eNZKML9usvf_EgzHk5lJbG/s1600/IMG_1786.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1024" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5EtoxgS1Q4_OljxZTOBWggqwJVzzTmkbaLeVILbEApKN_ARyjXuivK_Zso2rFopd7RHYC_Q1Stj6DKzWF97fhyphenhyphenLjHuFfPKUVgI97I5aDPWh9KohgxsqOmp-eNZKML9usvf_EgzHk5lJbG/s640/IMG_1786.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We reached our accommodation by 6 PM as planned and the hosts had prepared hot 'Mensinkai' bajji for us by the time we reached there.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFBe-B2q6EotS25eV995prr-0zZGgL8udCeRNMKW0zw7IC5RsDHAfp3N0TasBe7YrJGY69xiC5-jApXp3P3WY2mm98O__f_8bubGbyus8eCvCRCNDzrdYhrlYjVzURGX74ddFVw5MVD7i/s1600/DSC_1959.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1024" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFBe-B2q6EotS25eV995prr-0zZGgL8udCeRNMKW0zw7IC5RsDHAfp3N0TasBe7YrJGY69xiC5-jApXp3P3WY2mm98O__f_8bubGbyus8eCvCRCNDzrdYhrlYjVzURGX74ddFVw5MVD7i/s640/DSC_1959.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">A smoky cup of fresh Malnad filter coffee and hot Mesinkai(chilli) Bajji made a deadly combination, and added to the beauty was the mesmerising sunset. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The whole trek was a spectrum of lovely colors, and the way nature had managed them was indeed a play of God. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The Turquoise valley of the dawn and the Emerald gardens of the day followed by the Golden Sky of the dusk made the trek even more colorful.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Thus, we called it a day and hit the bed by 10 PM for a hard earned well deserving sleep. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #6fa8dc;"><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">What happened on Day 2 ??, click </span><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2017/10/face-to-face-with-horses-face.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: white;">here</span></a><span style="color: #6fa8dc;"> to know more.</span></i></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Nikon D500 + Nikon 24-120mm lens</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">iPhone 7 plus</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #ffd966;">Useful Information</span></h2>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Location :</b> Kudremukh , Chikmagalur(District) , Karnataka (State)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Distance from Bangalore :</b> 330 Kms</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Trek starting point :</b> Mullodi </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Trek difficulty Level </b>: Moderate</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Kudremukh trek distance</b> : 9 Kms (One way)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Kudremukh peak height</b> : 1894 mts</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Time to trek </b>: 4-5 hours (one way)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Camping </b>: Not allowed</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Best time to trek</b> : Sep to Jan</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Permission </b>: Required, should be taken forest office at Mullodi</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Trekking fees </b>: Rs 350 per person (with guide fee)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Contact Number </b>: Raje Gowda, 9481179008(M)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Jeep charge </b>: 600-800 per group ( from Balgal to Mullodi)</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Nearest bus stop</b> : Balgal , Kalasa</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #93c47d;"><b><i>Shola Heights</i> </b></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">Baamikonda</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Samse - 577124</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Chikmaglur district</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Karnataka</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">email : sholaheights@gmail.com</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><a href="http://www.sholaheights.com/">www.sholaheights.com</a></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Phone : 9449620070</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b style="color: #93c47d;"><i>Summiters Adventures</i></b></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #93c47d;"><a href="http://summiters.net/">https://summitersadventures.com/trip_kudremukh.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Vishwanath : +91 97403 60365</span></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #cc0000;">Please do not litter. Save Nature and Wildlife</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #cc0000;">Happy trekking !!</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="color: #6fa8dc;">Thank you</span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-45591711685782320422017-01-08T23:20:00.001+05:302020-09-20T19:05:11.977+05:30Rhapsody in Silver : Belligundi Waterfalls<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Mr. Vishwanath of <a href="https://summitersadventures.com/" target="_blank">Summiters</a> had informed me about this trek long time back, and I always wanted to do this trek considering the challenges it posed.</span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I could not join for this trek last year when he had organized one, but was lucky to join the trek this year.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Western Ghats are dotted with Pristine streams and waterfalls. In the dense forest are few waterfalls which are difficult to access due to uneven terrain. The rich Sharavathi Valley is home to numerous waterfalls and offer a feast to ardent nature lovers. Belligundi falls is also known as Kudumari waterfalls, and is one such waterfalls which offers challenge to anyone who is willing to explore it.</span><br />
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<b><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Day 1 : 23rd Dec, 2016</span></b><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Things were planned and we were set to depart on 23rd Dec, 2016. As usual some of my friends cancelled their participation at the last moment, and this time I had to go alone with a new group. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We decided to depart from Bangalore by 3.30 PM, but the hustle bustle of city traffic made us to hit the highway by 5.30 PM after picking up fellow trekkers.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">After a small coffee break near Tumkur, we headed towards Shimoga. Enroute, we s</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">topped at hotel Masala Suruchi (somewhere near Kadur) </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">for dinner</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">. The food was tasty and value for money. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIUF2wghqQ-514WS83OT9BbrqMMZicz1cHSJCGyYZausWqTjZ84Z3ST4muzc_A8EefwBvir7EGovzeUbp8eylvI1CFOkXyr9ibbJguvBOjuz2rDLlf7CJfuU5a1Dk5_qFiJ-RQxxX2awt/s1600/masala-suruchi.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIUF2wghqQ-514WS83OT9BbrqMMZicz1cHSJCGyYZausWqTjZ84Z3ST4muzc_A8EefwBvir7EGovzeUbp8eylvI1CFOkXyr9ibbJguvBOjuz2rDLlf7CJfuU5a1Dk5_qFiJ-RQxxX2awt/s640/masala-suruchi.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The dinner was so sumptuous and filling, that most of us fell fast asleep once we boarded the vehicle. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We reached Shimoga by 11.30 PM and then proceeded towards Kattinakaru village which was our base for Belligundi trek.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We could make out the arrival of Western ghats by the breath of fresh air and cool breeze. The star studded sky was one of the most beautiful sights that I had seen in recent times. After losing our way and asking for proper directions, we managed to reach our home stay at Kattinakaru by 2.30 AM. </span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The cold weather and the barking dogs welcomed us at Kattinakaru. We then met Mr. Goutham who was our host and discussed about the travel before hitting the bed. I was dreaming about the majestic waterfalls that we were going to see the next day.</span><br />
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<b><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Day 2 : 24th Dec, 2016</span></b><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were supposed to start our trek by 7.00 AM, but some of our fellow trekkers caused some delay due to which we hit the trail by 9.30 AM. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The team :</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3vXhftL06VHBSAPCEV_IOJp7i-nXWQVvsmGJkl3OhAT3AjAlrdk8DjPlD-Cu4kfq-o9HgR5wvGNZe3dR0DdOhrsrPEc4w4oQMwF6UQpgBUj0DHJlDSvnPq0dZsZ2ZoEWPW-UlZaJ2fPH/s1600/ARJ_5719.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3vXhftL06VHBSAPCEV_IOJp7i-nXWQVvsmGJkl3OhAT3AjAlrdk8DjPlD-Cu4kfq-o9HgR5wvGNZe3dR0DdOhrsrPEc4w4oQMwF6UQpgBUj0DHJlDSvnPq0dZsZ2ZoEWPW-UlZaJ2fPH/s640/ARJ_5719.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-size: x-small;"> From L to R : Deeksha , Usha , Goutham (host) , Amit</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihpJk56isG1rNm7FcIkRyRpSRnuWJmgrGU7cnvFkLjrFAl0ylzTjQhVOTYUVhMv5uvHQVmMKUHyJMUuqgBfMtphaGVnIDM04nnphtlSe_uZubicpn7eAKfEMH_y5cQeKXtnVlfjMrIJEY_/s1600/ARJ_5732.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihpJk56isG1rNm7FcIkRyRpSRnuWJmgrGU7cnvFkLjrFAl0ylzTjQhVOTYUVhMv5uvHQVmMKUHyJMUuqgBfMtphaGVnIDM04nnphtlSe_uZubicpn7eAKfEMH_y5cQeKXtnVlfjMrIJEY_/s640/ARJ_5732.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: x-small;">From L to R : Tulsi (2 from left), Hari , Dinesh , Narayana (guide - 6th from left) , Ajay , Sridhar , Jyothi , Vishwanath , Goutham , myself</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The starting point of the trek was around 10 kms from Goutam's home in Kattinakaru village. Once we reached the point, we started to trek without even looking back (as you know it was already late).</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Our guide Narayana and his assistant Dhananjaya had brought packed lunch for us. The initial route was almost flat , except we had to cross small streams and a temple. The path was across the coarse of water which usually flows during monsoon months.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCP8qABE3DAYDpRJG_Q_wIZUd-lTZtEcTMHzBC-8YuisqBBN-eKCTEl6mUu6rDWuQpBbMgYF6KtEZiMlDOp477Q8CUNKxsnQU7k7CKBKMMylAgVzcDGP1rv7K_f-njeMoFqoDosm0804-z/s1600/ARJ_5458.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCP8qABE3DAYDpRJG_Q_wIZUd-lTZtEcTMHzBC-8YuisqBBN-eKCTEl6mUu6rDWuQpBbMgYF6KtEZiMlDOp477Q8CUNKxsnQU7k7CKBKMMylAgVzcDGP1rv7K_f-njeMoFqoDosm0804-z/s640/ARJ_5458.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This lesser known waterfalls is hidden deep inside the thick evergreen forests of the Western ghats in the Sharavathi valley. Its a sheer pleasure to trek in this less trodden region, that makes this trek more beautiful.</span></div>
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Rain shadow forests</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFFHlr6ZtKpeMCThqXzhSojb1WY0zlsL8vGHev88ZduzDD2r_Iyh3-r6ntczecCbxebK2NpWvzxlk7KzZLTIH-uggNkZRs32MoVd1yLs007npZZZjt7BK3yz893rdyB1oTKFNvgn9mxro/s1600/ARJ_5473.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFFHlr6ZtKpeMCThqXzhSojb1WY0zlsL8vGHev88ZduzDD2r_Iyh3-r6ntczecCbxebK2NpWvzxlk7KzZLTIH-uggNkZRs32MoVd1yLs007npZZZjt7BK3yz893rdyB1oTKFNvgn9mxro/s640/ARJ_5473.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Sharavathi Valley:- The Sharavathi river valley nestled in the central Western Ghats, Shimoga district has been an ecological paradise. The Sharavathi River, rising at Ambuthirtha in Thirthahalli taluk flows north-west and drops down in the Ghats at the world famous Jog falls.</div>
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The Sharavathi Valley is home to many water falls and beautiful streams. The valley is evergreen to semi-evergreen forest along with moist deciduous type of forests that dominate the entire basin along with scrub savannah, grasslands, marshy areas . The plantation of acacia, cash crops like areca and rubber provides diverse options in the region.<br />
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It is also one of the topmost ecologocial hotspot in the Western ghats with varied flora and fauna.</div>
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After walking for almost one hour we arrived to a small place that has flowing water and is a small refreshing point (this place is called Kanchinakere). We quickly filled our water bottles before proceeding our trek. Our guide Narayana wanted us to reach the base of the waterfalls by 12.30PM, so that we could return back in time.</div>
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Each and every tree was extremely huge, that we had to trek in between the gigantic roots .</div>
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In my habitat</div>
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From this point onwards, the level of trek increases gradually from being moderate to difficult. The gradients continuously change from ascent and descent almost every few meters. </div>
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The route from here to base of the falls is very thrilling, as we have to take the support of tree roots and balance between slippery rocks while descending. The descent was very challenging, and many people started to fall every few meters. We then reached the water stream by around 12.30 PM. Most of them were completely drained of energy at this point, and this was where we got the first glimpse of the mighty falls.</div>
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First glimpse of the Belligundi falls</div>
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To have a glimpse of this waterfalls and to feel the presence of its magnificence, one has to trudge through the unbeaten path. For an ardent trekker to reach the bottom of the falls, he has to cross the intermittent streams, wading through grass, shredding of blood to hungry leeches & descending and ascending multiple emerald slopes. </div>
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Walking through the canopy and listening to the sounds of chirping birds makes the hike memorable. The sight of the silver line of this roaring waterfalls through the canopy that is cascading from height of 600 ft brings a pinch of curiosity in you.<br />
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Once the shola forests end, one has to trek further around 1-2 kms to the right thereby crossing small streams and rock boulders. This takes you to the base of the falls from where you can have a refreshing bath in the lap of Nature.<br />
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However, few people could not proceed post this point due to the difficulty in terrain and physical stress.</div>
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It took around 30 mins for the rest of us to reach the base of the waterfalls. </div>
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The sight from the base of the waterfalls was breathtaking and spellbinding. The thick forests of the Sharavathi valley could be seen from here. </div>
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There was a beautiful rainbow that was formed at the base and this made our bath more colorful. Without even looking back most of us took bath near the rainbow and this was extremely refreshing and rejuvenating.</div>
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Taking a refreshing bath under the sprinkling water, a natural shower with a vibgyor of colors removes the hardship and rejuvenates the body, mind and </div>
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soul..! </div>
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All our physical sorrows were vanished by taking a refreshing bath in the Sharavathi river. It was a real Natural therapy treatment for all of us.</div>
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Water drops as seen from the Rainbow</div>
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This feeling cannot be explained, but has to be experienced.</div>
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After the bath, we all gathered near the rock for lunch. The lunch comprised of Chapathis , Chutney , and Gojju (a local delicacy). Trust me this was one of the best lunch we had and the chutney was truly lip smacking.</div>
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We started to trek back by 3.30 PM and hoped to reach the starting point before sunset. However, our calculations went wrong, as the darkness engulfed in no time. All of us were really tired with the ascent due to which the water bottles ran empty within a short span. We were gasping for breath and waiting to reach Kanchinakere, so that we could fill our bottles again. </div>
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Trekking in the darkness was a first time experience for me, and it was a unique experience. It was good that we anticipated darkness and brought torches before hand.</div>
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Atlast we reached the Kanchinakere water source by around 6.45 PM, and the group prepared fresh Nimbehannu Panka (Lime juice). It was like finding an oasis in the desert, as it brought back all the energy within us.</div>
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From this point it took another 2 hours for us to reach the starting point where the tempo driver was waiting for us. We finally reached the starting point by 9.00 PM, thus marking an end to this amazing trek which was totally surprising , exciting and thrilling. </div>
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We reached the homestay at Kattinakaru by around 9.30 PM, and soon most of us hit the bed to earn a well deserving sleep after having delicious Malnad dinner.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUS9Jlcr0supWR_tB2prQrCKoT3MVJ4G96UHnLPlEzp381Q9Hu0Oq67goPzw1_QyZkSat3oDl_Fe-9bSlNQtAm2Wk2uzyre_QtmDDtbOMxEPDL7lJogEgUCkQIC96uFTtPj8f26Iihe8ix/s1600/ARJ_5726.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUS9Jlcr0supWR_tB2prQrCKoT3MVJ4G96UHnLPlEzp381Q9Hu0Oq67goPzw1_QyZkSat3oDl_Fe-9bSlNQtAm2Wk2uzyre_QtmDDtbOMxEPDL7lJogEgUCkQIC96uFTtPj8f26Iihe8ix/s640/ARJ_5726.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The homestay decorated with lanterns </div>
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<b>Day 3 : 25th Dec, 2016</b></div>
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I took a small stroll around the house to have a glimpse at the surroundings.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkjhg5FhpMoa_-eMnjFwkzqWT_xtIWdsNuoienj_PwciInbgkuBBWquKX1r12E53ZqqK2ZnCNP5b_aF6ZtbHuW_DRRgrLS5jgutjYq-pkeDpXQNj2tz0_Pgv3IzjrrqS_oiw6xJuPBbm3/s1600/IMG_20161224_071904058_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkjhg5FhpMoa_-eMnjFwkzqWT_xtIWdsNuoienj_PwciInbgkuBBWquKX1r12E53ZqqK2ZnCNP5b_aF6ZtbHuW_DRRgrLS5jgutjYq-pkeDpXQNj2tz0_Pgv3IzjrrqS_oiw6xJuPBbm3/s640/IMG_20161224_071904058_HDR.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Homestay<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifM4J7C-I5C7PijFh5Kd_0k4XauLAHLP7pNpyqVQLsRC-MLxCQ6cICXdS_q8-XG7qCdlXUubq07IUNM_3iAKKEq5q1hqxQWY1ziEeVHgthO1ZFhcjvNZATwKlzWKAftwTAAD8OjI4GFS3k/s1600/IMG_20161224_071941060_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifM4J7C-I5C7PijFh5Kd_0k4XauLAHLP7pNpyqVQLsRC-MLxCQ6cICXdS_q8-XG7qCdlXUubq07IUNM_3iAKKEq5q1hqxQWY1ziEeVHgthO1ZFhcjvNZATwKlzWKAftwTAAD8OjI4GFS3k/s640/IMG_20161224_071941060_HDR.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Arecanut plantations</div>
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After the morning rituals and breakfast, we bid goodbye to Goutham and his family and thanked them for the amazing hospitality they showered on us.</div>
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While driving back to Bangalore, we had a quick visit to Jog falls only to be disappointed by the water level in there. It was truly dis-heartening to see Jog falls without water.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMK9t5ZAVVclb2qt-btxl-rrAfFd68BNnQo4IMIulGaUEdmHzeMtVtxLbssVoqUVf12Vl1-SgME0ufBUeqxdywtk39aOy5dK2jwkq-yB_jdDlJWy82T5UFupq6vrrF3P0XfKBty7sJ-3q/s1600/Jog.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMK9t5ZAVVclb2qt-btxl-rrAfFd68BNnQo4IMIulGaUEdmHzeMtVtxLbssVoqUVf12Vl1-SgME0ufBUeqxdywtk39aOy5dK2jwkq-yB_jdDlJWy82T5UFupq6vrrF3P0XfKBty7sJ-3q/s640/Jog.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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Just a comparison </div>
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(The first picture was photographed during Aug 2007, whereas the second one was during this visit)</div>
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<b><u>Tips for trekkers</u></b></div>
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1. Smoking and Drinking is strictly prohibited</div>
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2. Permits and Guide is necessary</div>
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3. Usage of plastic is banned</div>
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4. Avoid trekking in Monsoon season (lots of leeches and riskier to trek)</div>
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5. <b>Best time is Oct to Jan</b></div>
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6. No mobile signals except BSNL at Kattinakaru</div>
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7. Water bottles and Energy bars are recommended</div>
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8. <b>Trek level : Moderate to Difficult</b></div>
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9. Do not mess with wildlife if at all you encounter any.</div>
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10. Leeches are abundant during monsoons and the frequency reduces thereafter.</div>
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11. Carry powerful torches<br />
12. It takes almost 10-12 hours to trek (up and down)<br />
13. Snakes like Vipers , vine snakes , Cobras(Spectacled and King) , Rat snakes are common. Best advise is to leave it as it is if you encounter with any snake. Be very careful & do not harm them in any way.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">How to react in case of Snake bite ? see this </span><a href="http://summiters.net/blog/item/408-about-snakes-and-a-bite-how-to-handle-it" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">blog</span></a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgV9E5T0TUtU3g9494mC4DvkDdaighMSRcKX-g-EuFw0OTOGweIvfWZG53rIUImZV7VV8_dumOXAeU_gYfNkhBOyW480XW8CqGcBZ4zgSYFe6P7kf8XQhnvhVbzMnK5Kmraumr7GLEmRho/s1600/Capture2.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgV9E5T0TUtU3g9494mC4DvkDdaighMSRcKX-g-EuFw0OTOGweIvfWZG53rIUImZV7VV8_dumOXAeU_gYfNkhBOyW480XW8CqGcBZ4zgSYFe6P7kf8XQhnvhVbzMnK5Kmraumr7GLEmRho/s320/Capture2.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgV9E5T0TUtU3g9494mC4DvkDdaighMSRcKX-g-EuFw0OTOGweIvfWZG53rIUImZV7VV8_dumOXAeU_gYfNkhBOyW480XW8CqGcBZ4zgSYFe6P7kf8XQhnvhVbzMnK5Kmraumr7GLEmRho/s1600/Capture2.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgV9E5T0TUtU3g9494mC4DvkDdaighMSRcKX-g-EuFw0OTOGweIvfWZG53rIUImZV7VV8_dumOXAeU_gYfNkhBOyW480XW8CqGcBZ4zgSYFe6P7kf8XQhnvhVbzMnK5Kmraumr7GLEmRho/s1600/Capture2.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Hump nosed pit viper</a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKERuevI8qy7u5rnG_tSPorvybFDyiRnFHaw7sYQ5JmglyzJ_TCq1wbDHkpSgsK2oocbDzkWDnud8SphY9EEl3pl4AyRhujmx_FFplY64sqVnwS3AYTyQ0yHNC44v8esKUxmSgBrSaVzrY/s1600/Capture3.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKERuevI8qy7u5rnG_tSPorvybFDyiRnFHaw7sYQ5JmglyzJ_TCq1wbDHkpSgsK2oocbDzkWDnud8SphY9EEl3pl4AyRhujmx_FFplY64sqVnwS3AYTyQ0yHNC44v8esKUxmSgBrSaVzrY/s320/Capture3.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKERuevI8qy7u5rnG_tSPorvybFDyiRnFHaw7sYQ5JmglyzJ_TCq1wbDHkpSgsK2oocbDzkWDnud8SphY9EEl3pl4AyRhujmx_FFplY64sqVnwS3AYTyQ0yHNC44v8esKUxmSgBrSaVzrY/s1600/Capture3.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;">Green vine snake</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKERuevI8qy7u5rnG_tSPorvybFDyiRnFHaw7sYQ5JmglyzJ_TCq1wbDHkpSgsK2oocbDzkWDnud8SphY9EEl3pl4AyRhujmx_FFplY64sqVnwS3AYTyQ0yHNC44v8esKUxmSgBrSaVzrY/s1600/Capture3.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<i>Snake images were photographed during my previous trip to Western ghats. You can see that blog <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2011/08/magic-of-monsoons-in-malnaad.html" target="_blank">here</a></i></div>
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<b><u>Route :</u></b></div>
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Bangalore - Tumkur - Arsikere - Shimoga - Sagar - Talaguppa - Kargal - Kattinakaru</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ10Vfx5ftBuHUIneQXC1rtZmqeTDczFC3akm9-bLmS54bg7Hm8259JQVb98ShThUpi0lCoYpAgNY43XxflcxMppMB4cs3JoH0L4bKjcltu_RPnAYFqaVTRXunG1_5RRTXVYiRwQdJtKSH/s1600/valley+view+and+Falls+from+View+point.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ10Vfx5ftBuHUIneQXC1rtZmqeTDczFC3akm9-bLmS54bg7Hm8259JQVb98ShThUpi0lCoYpAgNY43XxflcxMppMB4cs3JoH0L4bKjcltu_RPnAYFqaVTRXunG1_5RRTXVYiRwQdJtKSH/s640/valley+view+and+Falls+from+View+point.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Belligundi falls as seen from a distant view point</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture courtesy : Vishwanath</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Note : This was not photographed during this trip)</span></div>
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Our fellow trekker Mr. Dinesh has shared his experiences of trekking to Belligundi falls. Please see this short video here :<br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/Hh26KUiiT1A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWIsxQgjkfku4V_ZmePLerr2fxcD3fEYlPI0xYZx7HxK85wj9Sg6_wpanlURAz_vMIZJvGtcLVyEOJLzIYDbHaMV_NosD5r4dAxR4SwmCVhNPE4n59e9RajWVyH5ewmNm5yQB2YAOMRUQ0/s320/Capture.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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To know the grandeur of Jog falls during monsoons, see this short video :</div>
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<a href="https://youtu.be/CVQRkobcDi4" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCToGg263PmWi5tB9bpUAshA8LCwb9tRdQ-wscolbVWCz4HKNLXQuy4RH-DFYUmY8c_FdOzdaYQGyMmDbPbPEZZ5JbmHKpxZKgwSJW47knBzIXSbbgsw2TmvDYYDY3wu6vp9aSrBxuTU2h/s320/Capture1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you are interested in this trek, then please contact :</div>
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<b>Mr. Vishwanath</b></div>
<div style="font-size: medium; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #9fc5e8;">(Summiters Adventures)</span></div>
<div style="font-size: medium; text-align: left;"><a href="https://summitersadventures.com/trip_belligundi.html">https://summitersadventures.com/trip_belligundi.html</a> </div>
<div style="font-size: medium; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">+91 97403 60365</span></span></div>
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Thank you</div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-53713352400641720802016-10-31T18:43:00.000+05:302016-10-31T18:43:50.986+05:30Spectacular Spiti : Ancient centers of learning - Tabo and Dhankar <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #eeeeee; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Page 6)</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 7 - Aug 11th , 2016</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We thought of staying for another day at Mudh. However, considering the odds and risks of mountain roads, we decided to depart from Mudh.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As planned, we departed from Mudh village by 9.30 AM. Our next destination was Tabo, one of the oldest monasteries in the Spiti valley. The drive took almost 3 hours from Mudh to Tabo. The terrain was almost the same as it was from Kaza to Mudh. But after crossing the bridge, the terrain is filled with rocks and pebbles. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rakeshji was skeptical about driving to Tabo, as the route was not that good as per him. However, the locals suggested us to proceed to Tabo.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enroute Tabo, we found a herd of Bharals(Blue sheep). These animals were highly camouflaged and that made it very difficult for us to sight them.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQ96RDucdQkw_391BR16ywjFOKbQ3PqIpWC2qmbR_t6zfP40xCSLKwTnhACXGrf6p1nHEdqXf6eOcedwsrtxWvEJpdHI1gMKnQzJ4LftAlVBPn5Y44WaEM_8HUf2hV10p5Ro-iaBrup16/s1600/bluesheep-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQ96RDucdQkw_391BR16ywjFOKbQ3PqIpWC2qmbR_t6zfP40xCSLKwTnhACXGrf6p1nHEdqXf6eOcedwsrtxWvEJpdHI1gMKnQzJ4LftAlVBPn5Y44WaEM_8HUf2hV10p5Ro-iaBrup16/s640/bluesheep-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The bharal or Himalayan blue sheep or naur (Pseudois nayaur) is a caprid found in the high Himalayas of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and Pakistan.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4i3gL1qKjXclRU3LUe04_97Y-nZg2LAtSsYRViOBQts742LCI_0tiUJ_NeFMwyLuyzbRX-e0y6qDy_y2HBWKriTXE7L8NN-fL6sp-UpjROExsYRdqc85e3XduKlUAT0pI4VRRh4A8jFQV/s1600/bluesheep-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4i3gL1qKjXclRU3LUe04_97Y-nZg2LAtSsYRViOBQts742LCI_0tiUJ_NeFMwyLuyzbRX-e0y6qDy_y2HBWKriTXE7L8NN-fL6sp-UpjROExsYRdqc85e3XduKlUAT0pI4VRRh4A8jFQV/s640/bluesheep-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqBNJwYJ_a5hXRGLAWHBcTawCv1RghqIZJis5v7HZqysDrUHJXYmk67zP-wUABm06altvMtktu09OC1u17dmsWaXC-cdaOzwoXSPQRK6tVaPjVT4ntjUoSiFCIr19snPRBOi1UuB60D5B/s1600/bluesheep-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqBNJwYJ_a5hXRGLAWHBcTawCv1RghqIZJis5v7HZqysDrUHJXYmk67zP-wUABm06altvMtktu09OC1u17dmsWaXC-cdaOzwoXSPQRK6tVaPjVT4ntjUoSiFCIr19snPRBOi1UuB60D5B/s640/bluesheep-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Tabo Monastery</u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached Tabo by 12.30 PM. The old monastery was closed for lunch, and we had to wait until 2 PM for it to reopen.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the meanwhile, we visited the new monastery and other places surrounding the monastery.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFskVjpB9rTXnYcqkosLySzylbUHsQceu5WbvjUsvPZjC0Un5-_cIhC5yW5HmsEJsfp-ltiMfrgW3x2Zn8c5Y4ligXZZQ9wzZYabLJYMpjkyx6yVdcLXGG_70IhCtFZmXywR0YjMp9KURC/s640/35.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Satish uncle entering the Tabo monastery</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFskVjpB9rTXnYcqkosLySzylbUHsQceu5WbvjUsvPZjC0Un5-_cIhC5yW5HmsEJsfp-ltiMfrgW3x2Zn8c5Y4ligXZZQ9wzZYabLJYMpjkyx6yVdcLXGG_70IhCtFZmXywR0YjMp9KURC/s1600/35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Ajanta of the Himalayas", as the Tabo Chos-Khor Monastery is popularly known, was founded more than a millennium back in 996 A.D., The Year of the Fire Ape by the Tibetan Calendar.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KuDrf7ktRn-TgMmcmHpkkW7BDAGSPlPqYZUdaTRET5Oi7-sVLCasvSJXTfCme9spWxrcPVG9kvQO0X2v2tITLDLMqDAxp5Twf1sKJh2vFaSg4hxIdnkNWOjPKpemH1dU4WAgUWJ3tKVa/s1600/36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KuDrf7ktRn-TgMmcmHpkkW7BDAGSPlPqYZUdaTRET5Oi7-sVLCasvSJXTfCme9spWxrcPVG9kvQO0X2v2tITLDLMqDAxp5Twf1sKJh2vFaSg4hxIdnkNWOjPKpemH1dU4WAgUWJ3tKVa/s640/36.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It stands on the barren, arid, snow covered, cold and rocky desert of the Tabo valley at a dizzying height of 3050 m. Untouched by the tribulations of humanity, a heaven in its own sense, it has preserved the glorious heritage, traditions and culture of Buddhism through the passage of centuries, withholding its institution with utter purity.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibq8KyJCKFvIXQtXf8lLQ-ybz6fQe1_Y03wW156VjOH8hZbTuKrKfWMLLsKJs3CJFnKA62_5l5uH7svUIKFiKcRMFw3QiCLDfWLF-tNj03ZxXqQzIsD6_G9cM07hfJlTd79VnkOhJm5Wmx/s1600/37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibq8KyJCKFvIXQtXf8lLQ-ybz6fQe1_Y03wW156VjOH8hZbTuKrKfWMLLsKJs3CJFnKA62_5l5uH7svUIKFiKcRMFw3QiCLDfWLF-tNj03ZxXqQzIsD6_G9cM07hfJlTd79VnkOhJm5Wmx/s640/37.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Tabo Gompa, or Buddhist monastery, is second in importance only to the Tholing Gompa in Tibet in the entire Himalayan region. It was developed as an advanced centre for learning by the great teacher and translator Lotsawa Rinchen Tsang Po, the king of western Himalayan Kingdom of Guge -- also known as Lha Lama Yeshe O'd or Mahaguru Ratnabhadra</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZoNNdIbJwoefJVsjOdI0vuaKJtq_cYNx45-jzI5EoTj9Ln6fe5U9GN-4WCGGhXSTZPTNRVp0M4d_YQR54XT3XuQFNn_QzMdqnuvOjIcxeInEDgK_phN3bXf1wXMSnfeKQNl23mQf2Vwi/s1600/38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZoNNdIbJwoefJVsjOdI0vuaKJtq_cYNx45-jzI5EoTj9Ln6fe5U9GN-4WCGGhXSTZPTNRVp0M4d_YQR54XT3XuQFNn_QzMdqnuvOjIcxeInEDgK_phN3bXf1wXMSnfeKQNl23mQf2Vwi/s640/38.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> The Chos-Khor at Tabo remained one of the most important Buddhist establishments during the time of Lotsawa after the Chos-Khor at Tholing, the capital town of Guge. It is known that the Chos-Khor at Tabo commanded great importance, and hosted for a considerable period, many great scholars and translators in the Buddhist history studies. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8x5NZUL9-VuS9BwP8ja-H3D9FWF40Z4K5HQPps37HEkSS-5q8TCQ1And5CXwrufkvoQfd92G129QcNWi9pMHIQ5DfrkQZouz8qgEGjY6oR8xI0oCtdtJUE2PYMU5q6KoG-bpyhxjQSZTA/s1600/ARJ_3938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8x5NZUL9-VuS9BwP8ja-H3D9FWF40Z4K5HQPps37HEkSS-5q8TCQ1And5CXwrufkvoQfd92G129QcNWi9pMHIQ5DfrkQZouz8qgEGjY6oR8xI0oCtdtJUE2PYMU5q6KoG-bpyhxjQSZTA/s640/ARJ_3938.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">New monastery</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To date, it is the preserver of the Buddhist Legacy and is one of the most important Gompa of the entire Tibetan Buddhist world.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDriAj9gFK64-IlWoh3IO_D0DLMlEED84rK9sdd5NX_d3-2QthADhgcjO8wjxn-jBkkoudv3Qfph75yI3buIW1bw_jxlNwhIyH1mk8NxdgjqNz9seP2JpkYe0-wVW2nSzH3nIfRFeJEuqx/s1600/ARJ_3950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDriAj9gFK64-IlWoh3IO_D0DLMlEED84rK9sdd5NX_d3-2QthADhgcjO8wjxn-jBkkoudv3Qfph75yI3buIW1bw_jxlNwhIyH1mk8NxdgjqNz9seP2JpkYe0-wVW2nSzH3nIfRFeJEuqx/s640/ARJ_3950.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are small stupa like structures which can be seen around the old monastery which are built by bricks and mud. In the surrounding hills, there are many caves which dates back to ancient times. It is said that many Lamas perform meditation there.</span></span><br />
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<b style="color: #f1c232; font-size: x-large;"><u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dhankar Monastery</span></u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our next destination was Dhankar monastery. We had seen this place while going to Mudh. It was nestled on the high cliffs of the Spiti mountains. As and when we went near the place, I was baffled with the amazing architecture it possessed. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNhW9aYzDe9_ykadG7KB3G2qfeinb59TXVNEkdX6ECBSheIPymu7AaFYk3xuCQmkhdAOMEPXF86I7fOtKOFd6hz879dHrqAqUXp8DP2Cl18jL33ARdYd5LEregiAp_-nNsxhF-FvCEjJR/s1600/ARJ_4044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNhW9aYzDe9_ykadG7KB3G2qfeinb59TXVNEkdX6ECBSheIPymu7AaFYk3xuCQmkhdAOMEPXF86I7fOtKOFd6hz879dHrqAqUXp8DP2Cl18jL33ARdYd5LEregiAp_-nNsxhF-FvCEjJR/s640/ARJ_4044.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Confluence of Parvathi (L) and Spiti (R) rivers</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The confluence of the Parvati and Spiti rivers can be seen from Dhankar. Both the rivers emerge from high mountains, and merge together to form Spiti river.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dhankar village is situated at an elevation of over 3,800 metres in the Spiti Valley. It is connected to the rest of the valley through a motorable road, which is good for small vehicle only.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9u3dG2d_1dBKXySN1xBafjdFmlxVFsIvOZ8vI_5x9r7dOtPatmDszqQDUv1DQjmgSbbLwig6DGUVMHuAO3p-4Dq5sfYxSg-ZjWGVeMpiMtmVsE4dDh8KDbkjnTKwHnsd5KFA4pj0TzNQ/s1600/ARJ_4064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9u3dG2d_1dBKXySN1xBafjdFmlxVFsIvOZ8vI_5x9r7dOtPatmDszqQDUv1DQjmgSbbLwig6DGUVMHuAO3p-4Dq5sfYxSg-ZjWGVeMpiMtmVsE4dDh8KDbkjnTKwHnsd5KFA4pj0TzNQ/s640/ARJ_4064.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dhankar is just like another small village in the cold desert of Spiti Valley. Untouched and away from tourists exploitation , the population of this village is very less</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sGEMcpY3I_LtKuIO6uHbblcsxswnsa3cHvH0-7zkzo0metkv3eT0lOHEkMxZWEW2DyMgc-FrFjM303WNn90QkySjM_NSXxpOD9wlpZlSmX6olr1L7JQV5noeHamI43vGn4yZ8wZSVv0M/s1600/dhankar-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sGEMcpY3I_LtKuIO6uHbblcsxswnsa3cHvH0-7zkzo0metkv3eT0lOHEkMxZWEW2DyMgc-FrFjM303WNn90QkySjM_NSXxpOD9wlpZlSmX6olr1L7JQV5noeHamI43vGn4yZ8wZSVv0M/s640/dhankar-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This Monastery was built using traditional materials like mud, stone and timber. It is dark inside and small steps are leading from one place to another. To prevent complete darkness, there are small windows in the walls, from where sunlight approaches. There are many prayer hall inside the monastery.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ynwB3wurOx7_IWhAVAz_HVfRTt3Z0_t4EAqG9BGmpi42ePeC9NJkVMlwWAoXCbCcSCXLrBtVFyQsTe9HRYGdd9_6egwujsqD94rOcMwnsK12Psc9rqZOM8yysAgLbiFTvZeIKi-yP1E5/s1600/dhankar-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ynwB3wurOx7_IWhAVAz_HVfRTt3Z0_t4EAqG9BGmpi42ePeC9NJkVMlwWAoXCbCcSCXLrBtVFyQsTe9HRYGdd9_6egwujsqD94rOcMwnsK12Psc9rqZOM8yysAgLbiFTvZeIKi-yP1E5/s640/dhankar-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The cliff base of the monastery is highly vulnerable to erosion caused by the cold wind and incessant rain. This monastery is reducing its stability due to soil erosion and other natural calamities. World Monuments Fund declared this monastery as one of the 100 most endangered sites in the world. A nonprofit group, Dhankar Initiative, is attempting to revoke the loss.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the recent times, due to the deteriorating condition of this majestic monastery, a new monastery is being built in the village which is very near to the old monastery</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30BSnHoTY-6NtfYAyhZR7ROVjx39soCL0bjKmyQf1vFSwAwe442v_vFJACj4-mIhw7WBjdUw2pRPPW5O3R7RnQJBLRqQxO739hcemetVYjJ4Lde2h0r3eZSxbjIxNzH6AzZVkTaU1D1Ws/s1600/ARJ_4060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30BSnHoTY-6NtfYAyhZR7ROVjx39soCL0bjKmyQf1vFSwAwe442v_vFJACj4-mIhw7WBjdUw2pRPPW5O3R7RnQJBLRqQxO739hcemetVYjJ4Lde2h0r3eZSxbjIxNzH6AzZVkTaU1D1Ws/s640/ARJ_4060.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Other places of interest in Dhankar are the Dhankar lake and the Dhankar fort. As we were short of time, we could not visit these places.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5kjKikSXw8ddtM0-v3nB5ZrDeZceTcjbao6B2piiqvWtJiB4ppCoVJkMYiens4kSnQqo1VIyBfs3ZChluGUdHOxWL-xPlUmVeScNf28u7a7jGbh1jumWbR2nHXfxURzY1uWGFyjLlFi8/s1600/dhankar-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5kjKikSXw8ddtM0-v3nB5ZrDeZceTcjbao6B2piiqvWtJiB4ppCoVJkMYiens4kSnQqo1VIyBfs3ZChluGUdHOxWL-xPlUmVeScNf28u7a7jGbh1jumWbR2nHXfxURzY1uWGFyjLlFi8/s640/dhankar-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We then returned back to Kaza via a small village called Shichling. Enroute, we got an opportunity to see another Red fox crossing the road. The road conditions were pretty good, and is well connected from Dhankar to Kaza.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We again checked in to the same hotel we stayed earlier (Hotel Spiti valley) and departed early the next morning back to Manali.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 8 - Aug 12th , 2016</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For us to reach Manali before dark, we had to depart from Kaza as early as 6 AM. As we were aware of the road conditions, we did not want to take any risk.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgo-k8xLirB36CoiKynlRKZz3cMmHiGhFrRbehpXq0u7ZKf3sq7v5Rx1Xjy59xWHafNmEhvzH_Bew7XGNZZiDUq3I91bI_OFRORCGPwMUiRXcHkE5iJf_ODQBr7llBvgtx3t6mJrIkDRSC/s1600/cyclists.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgo-k8xLirB36CoiKynlRKZz3cMmHiGhFrRbehpXq0u7ZKf3sq7v5Rx1Xjy59xWHafNmEhvzH_Bew7XGNZZiDUq3I91bI_OFRORCGPwMUiRXcHkE5iJf_ODQBr7llBvgtx3t6mJrIkDRSC/s640/cyclists.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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Our breakfast was at Losar, which comprised of Alu Paratha and my all time favorite maggi. Myself and Bhargav purchased few shawls from the neighboring shop.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVZx0JLl8EJa-N2nlWV7ziqcfColRWs_Z9QRazG2eOdru47c-kT10fZ0mUA0ZOWj7v8AEd4iSTsL8lcHKJp5MKaOl8Si4es0oGNZXEUYcgkpyru1KlYpdCRm4Go4CMdku-735U9wnlAY7/s1600/chikappa-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVZx0JLl8EJa-N2nlWV7ziqcfColRWs_Z9QRazG2eOdru47c-kT10fZ0mUA0ZOWj7v8AEd4iSTsL8lcHKJp5MKaOl8Si4es0oGNZXEUYcgkpyru1KlYpdCRm4Go4CMdku-735U9wnlAY7/s640/chikappa-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached Manali by 5.30 PM after visiting the Beas kund temple at Rohtang pass. The clouds had filled the valley, and this made the visibility very low.</span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Fj8RtJoLO4quNQeCADvSP0YPMmrE0gB8bm6m_Ywzkew_47mJtOYEv7p-12tjMkTUVGBiFmhGha3P7ocPrlx6HDhn14r3FAHD_ES-y39H_uJftkmroX2v-yowAjji3ARPe8sZS8H1gqCT/s1600/lovelymanali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Fj8RtJoLO4quNQeCADvSP0YPMmrE0gB8bm6m_Ywzkew_47mJtOYEv7p-12tjMkTUVGBiFmhGha3P7ocPrlx6HDhn14r3FAHD_ES-y39H_uJftkmroX2v-yowAjji3ARPe8sZS8H1gqCT/s640/lovelymanali.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Manali as seen from a heart shaped cloud</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We then checked in to the same hotel as we stayed on Day 2 ("Hotel Anupam"), and then retired for the day after strolling the Manali mall road.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 9 - Aug 13th , 2016</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We visited Solang valley and Naggar before departing from Manali.</span></span><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Solang Valley :</span></u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Solang Nala (Valley) derives its name from combination of words Solang (Nearby village) and Nullah (water stream). It is a side valley at the top of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India 14 km northwest of the resort town Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass, and is known for its summer and winter sport conditions.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPc0UxbZ5GQa1QiJqSpQvLQNMQI96wzP6MHos2mwgyO6hS_6zo9FVsf_X2CiHJhUeqrzCKQn4G5AGU-mhK28flUfjGdfRGF05taFbGkhyphenhyphenESiMbxWIY0TP6BVVYPyS_OEvUoYdABoytQWxw/s1600/39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPc0UxbZ5GQa1QiJqSpQvLQNMQI96wzP6MHos2mwgyO6hS_6zo9FVsf_X2CiHJhUeqrzCKQn4G5AGU-mhK28flUfjGdfRGF05taFbGkhyphenhyphenESiMbxWIY0TP6BVVYPyS_OEvUoYdABoytQWxw/s640/39.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The sports most commonly offered are parachuting, paragliding, skating and zorbing.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-fWO9c1RXsviQS-rByG2tbqw1G6CR8ANgFoU1HRwYQH37CkSJBQlvZMhL8hEV_1QhNRJZWlH_nmK2sQGF3ytWl8zADHGPNGIYORYPxwZ7_PzeIaY0GSb5DXTe0NAr0NZwJGHPaugLJSa/s1600/40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-fWO9c1RXsviQS-rByG2tbqw1G6CR8ANgFoU1HRwYQH37CkSJBQlvZMhL8hEV_1QhNRJZWlH_nmK2sQGF3ytWl8zADHGPNGIYORYPxwZ7_PzeIaY0GSb5DXTe0NAr0NZwJGHPaugLJSa/s640/40.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a Rohtang tunnel project that is currently going on in the Solang area, which connects you to Rohtang from Solang at a reduced distance.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhH-KR9kBC4i3alN2nbMoJS3QkJ2qw80kadiUy4DAfXX8MNVJQL1f54ig2DualAvho9sntLnKKbsGnocvLsWhSWbWqvRfZl5OnJrDfNkEm3bCkLN_HOZQxK1-3G9DVSROxFvfGbNT9SCT/s1600/41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhH-KR9kBC4i3alN2nbMoJS3QkJ2qw80kadiUy4DAfXX8MNVJQL1f54ig2DualAvho9sntLnKKbsGnocvLsWhSWbWqvRfZl5OnJrDfNkEm3bCkLN_HOZQxK1-3G9DVSROxFvfGbNT9SCT/s640/41.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim1PKzG8qLMq5awzAhbEN35q3Y3ILW6JL9XHx_MdWQ21W5XjP3yGwUA_DmeTzD_iFRrHtPga5FF_5MTAV-1RtHQhNagMYz62fQ4AMuBH27sp2wJteV5w0LDbMWcDrASXtxqdIcYA8OGsyr/s1600/42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim1PKzG8qLMq5awzAhbEN35q3Y3ILW6JL9XHx_MdWQ21W5XjP3yGwUA_DmeTzD_iFRrHtPga5FF_5MTAV-1RtHQhNagMYz62fQ4AMuBH27sp2wJteV5w0LDbMWcDrASXtxqdIcYA8OGsyr/s640/42.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Mahamaya Jogini falls :</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just 5 kms from the Manali bus station is the famous Jogini falls. It is nestled in thick forests and mountains of Manali. This is a short 1-2 kms trek from the parking area to the base of the falls.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNnqHfx7izGZSA8ZazFLdL3MlppFixH7JrK1rIPUVQCYLsLq4aZEqgFdfyvZqATTDjbS7inzZeLZtkMpp2v0u37JM-G5Bao6O46Xjd1Pk1jOOX0QJR9xuUwoU9VWAEZ_DoOLgTUuRqv1b3/s1600/jogini-falls---1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNnqHfx7izGZSA8ZazFLdL3MlppFixH7JrK1rIPUVQCYLsLq4aZEqgFdfyvZqATTDjbS7inzZeLZtkMpp2v0u37JM-G5Bao6O46Xjd1Pk1jOOX0QJR9xuUwoU9VWAEZ_DoOLgTUuRqv1b3/s640/jogini-falls---1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a temple that is dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya Jogini (another form of Goddess Parvathi) at the base of the waterfalls. Hence the falls has got its name.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBbA0Y9p-KJ6DhT2XQtznNOJ1Rby7K0SSaVa7DqV-_-K7hgm8VGT51JVPN8_sUKRymOOpcxnYArGbszh4N0IZxEQ0CR4_h39OuVFT4ft7z7MkEgjEKS_dq3Cy6pEZk4lBCC_7SZ6X_8dt/s1600/jogini-falls---2--1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBbA0Y9p-KJ6DhT2XQtznNOJ1Rby7K0SSaVa7DqV-_-K7hgm8VGT51JVPN8_sUKRymOOpcxnYArGbszh4N0IZxEQ0CR4_h39OuVFT4ft7z7MkEgjEKS_dq3Cy6pEZk4lBCC_7SZ6X_8dt/s640/jogini-falls---2--1.jpg" width="476" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9AMJQnDBrM6-nOVWhaBw-3NMY3xsMFueNSoV-5QoEL0bVoWhusPMsgVNpZHAC5rqEF9MzfzVh5iatF7GbW438JhJWtYzIGe6ZAlvfnswAVtbpAQ7tZwZSWKbbt-uh-_ae-XWxVgnZvXZj/s1600/jogini-falls---3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9AMJQnDBrM6-nOVWhaBw-3NMY3xsMFueNSoV-5QoEL0bVoWhusPMsgVNpZHAC5rqEF9MzfzVh5iatF7GbW438JhJWtYzIGe6ZAlvfnswAVtbpAQ7tZwZSWKbbt-uh-_ae-XWxVgnZvXZj/s640/jogini-falls---3.jpg" width="366" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDl-y9jnXXeeCvh0Ocbhp-6upbGR2SKL3PA4BRuRLMuEDZdGabD119MnjloEElD688dfMtgZ2yLsTZC0LvOCU-KSzvt26MBCd4HRFMxjGgzQ1i07olIubwrMwMnAdHcFII_xF5fvasEr2/s1600/jogini-falls-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDl-y9jnXXeeCvh0Ocbhp-6upbGR2SKL3PA4BRuRLMuEDZdGabD119MnjloEElD688dfMtgZ2yLsTZC0LvOCU-KSzvt26MBCd4HRFMxjGgzQ1i07olIubwrMwMnAdHcFII_xF5fvasEr2/s640/jogini-falls-a.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="color: #f1c232;"><u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Naggar : </span></u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Naggar is a small sleepy hamlet which is close to Manali in the Kullu district of Himachal pradesh. We visited the famous Roerich house there, which contained old artifacts and things used by Roerich. The house contained his paintings and an old vintage car used by him.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We departed Manali by a volvo bus at 5.30 PM, and reached Delhi by 7.30 AM the next day.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 10 - Aug 14th , 2016</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Spent the whole day in Delhi by visiting Palika bazaar , Connaught place etc.,</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 11 - Aug 15th , 2016</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Took the early morning flight back to Bangalore and reached home by 11.30 AM. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Useful information / Tips to the travelers :</u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. Both Dhankar and Tabo has a lot of home stays which range from 300 INR</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Usually the home stays offer you food (with an additional cost). The food options are limited with just Indian and Chinese dishes.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Do not expect luxury here. This place is only for travelers and not for tourists. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. The best time to visit Tabo and Dhankar is from June to September. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. The road conditions to Tabo is not good compared to Dhankar. It becomes difficult to visit Tabo if there are frequent rains, as it is prone to landslides.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. Mobile signals are very weak</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">7. Electricity is very scarce , so charge your batteries when available.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">8. Do not litter the place, keep the Himalayas clean</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">9. Tabo is around 50 kms from both Mudh and Kaza.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">10. The bus connectivity is weak. It is suggested to travel by private vehicles to save time.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thanks for viewing</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBA-CFJcoIS8IBB3ipSOGZX1dRhljJDOmOFPhofK6bhQgJ2yuICLDBYaeAq8ye38n095OrplMyyw1K_ygv7EIkd5WeBQFnOcxw9ciBAzmbxfEf8WLXr4IB-HkHrDzykau-IYomcbYfVFI_/s1600/leftarrows.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<i><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This marks the end of my Spiti series</span></i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-pin-parvati-valley.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpAoVoo0rPwLVABVCZv_t-pDbdBBXNNPy-dEtoh5UN2MzSB8-1FbM5CDTUfKKijm_sNswleEDxp0gGZagauTNkACUPZ2B2BSVGM-iU6Aw7QkZ_x7faA5ZUWO-HqHuoIw1y8vmRPsP6yLs/s1600/left.JPG" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-pin-parvati-valley.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Pin valley</span></a></i></span></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-pin-parvati-valley.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 5)</span></a></i></span></b></td></tr>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-75973910349759810382016-10-31T18:42:00.000+05:302017-02-28T20:51:12.067+05:30Spectacular Spiti : Pin valley<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #eeeeee; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Page 5)</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 6 - Aug 10th , 2016</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Early morning visit to the Sakya monastery at Kaza was completely refreshing and energizing. The Buddhist hymns and prayers created a sense of divinity and generated positive energy amongst us. Few of us meditated at the prayer hall for some time, before proceeding to Pin valley.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We checked out from our hotel by 6.30 AM, and headed towards Mudh village which is supposedly the last village in the Pin Parvati valley.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The initial stretch from Kaza to Mudh takes you through many small villages along the Spiti river. </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The terrain is rugged but complemented with beautiful rock formations enroute. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowuOvuE_mOsGRi-cr-a0yWysHs76EufmPZ8vaixFN_PmhQnkLaVJnMRKVK2j6vJL8TDF16TN2sKxhmYlv8RDyuF3ulep8GvyCfPkYaHss_mt3SB1Y7DCoitzhHG2rNALeOo9mGPsXbA-8/s1600/mudh---sand-formation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowuOvuE_mOsGRi-cr-a0yWysHs76EufmPZ8vaixFN_PmhQnkLaVJnMRKVK2j6vJL8TDF16TN2sKxhmYlv8RDyuF3ulep8GvyCfPkYaHss_mt3SB1Y7DCoitzhHG2rNALeOo9mGPsXbA-8/s640/mudh---sand-formation.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once the bridge is crossed, you enter the Pin valley. Parvathi river welcomes you from this point onwards.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZn_f6PVCpTs2X2dVf5zcL2NMdD2RBiTTDr8D4ZIkOst9xOh_I6J1_9Qfi3w5Wghjtp5zTw9zoC63OPKI_SuI5tfDiy9vUB7-a00hC8xsZsTCqS299FmFrk17i9St1Ji8OEUWQYuvnYCCk/s1600/ARJ_3234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZn_f6PVCpTs2X2dVf5zcL2NMdD2RBiTTDr8D4ZIkOst9xOh_I6J1_9Qfi3w5Wghjtp5zTw9zoC63OPKI_SuI5tfDiy9vUB7-a00hC8xsZsTCqS299FmFrk17i9St1Ji8OEUWQYuvnYCCk/s640/ARJ_3234.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The very sight of this arch increased our thrill and excitement. The journey from Kaza to Mudh is truly amazing. It is filled with colorful mountains , valleys , villages , people , flora and fauna. Before visiting this place, myself and Bhargav had read some blogs to know more about this place. But the beauty of this place was even more beautiful than we had read. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnWOGRJbQIpp77ovMRz0Rksls6snoxUPZsiNEld2i_Iq9RdMWq982p-fW4miYT9oAXocK8ANXAtvufWq33-nzTaSud_ftpxGuf80qJMy2yNzzTtrENM7KXEWjTb-Ftoh_vk5c8MLZwUJ_6/s1600/ARJ_3260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnWOGRJbQIpp77ovMRz0Rksls6snoxUPZsiNEld2i_Iq9RdMWq982p-fW4miYT9oAXocK8ANXAtvufWq33-nzTaSud_ftpxGuf80qJMy2yNzzTtrENM7KXEWjTb-Ftoh_vk5c8MLZwUJ_6/s640/ARJ_3260.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The valley is home to many colorful villages, which are on the banks of the Parvati river.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVfh3u26bX-DrJOmCeKvpve4Y_QkBdroSUU6T92aSHCFBPzKxIuc0TU5A1umlypxnFTP6X6xVO0hNrVoOtTPa3wgnH-zLbj_b8XmIVwYwClhMjqak8xD8l4cZ2UzfYv4dZLCMi2EccpJ5/s1600/ARJ_3277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVfh3u26bX-DrJOmCeKvpve4Y_QkBdroSUU6T92aSHCFBPzKxIuc0TU5A1umlypxnFTP6X6xVO0hNrVoOtTPa3wgnH-zLbj_b8XmIVwYwClhMjqak8xD8l4cZ2UzfYv4dZLCMi2EccpJ5/s640/ARJ_3277.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Some of these villages are completely dis-connected with the outer world. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQgFfqQiNdX6vjRAaZeYYIiJ2eO1rS5W5MJkTQb3HT-G9SwVtd6mO7zcsq3nWBGdFaCj22eoVkgj1bkF0zROu5sfByJUnp2ZdhNUv24QjSKyzbpDhPgICjQLhyphenhyphenPWJ-5buDepmLcQUnWyJ/s1600/ARJ_3305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQgFfqQiNdX6vjRAaZeYYIiJ2eO1rS5W5MJkTQb3HT-G9SwVtd6mO7zcsq3nWBGdFaCj22eoVkgj1bkF0zROu5sfByJUnp2ZdhNUv24QjSKyzbpDhPgICjQLhyphenhyphenPWJ-5buDepmLcQUnWyJ/s640/ARJ_3305.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enroute Mudh, we got an opportunity to visit Peas farms and eat some sweet and delicious peas. These were totally different from what I had eaten before. The sweetness of these peas was incomparable.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached the lovely village of Mudh by 11.30 AM and checked into a hotel called<b> "Snow valley"</b>. It is just opposite to the famous Tara homestay in Mudh. This particular hotel offered amazing views of the neighboring mountains and valleys. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84zIo_867sAoKPnaqsqO3vka66dxfrnqw7Yp9MLd_aGBzyV16zrOeylao1oVA2t56X_0hqwF0nWfU02sRsFadiH7LjV20lp9PGn0jk6Hw4HCbbu3l-H_0EOq8XpnRfvoTVSUj_PAkNITe/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84zIo_867sAoKPnaqsqO3vka66dxfrnqw7Yp9MLd_aGBzyV16zrOeylao1oVA2t56X_0hqwF0nWfU02sRsFadiH7LjV20lp9PGn0jk6Hw4HCbbu3l-H_0EOq8XpnRfvoTVSUj_PAkNITe/s640/10.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">View from our room</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is run by a person called Mr. Ramesh, who is a hospitable person. The rooms are pretty decent and economical as well. Most homestays at Mudh shares the bathroom with two or three rooms. However, this particular hotel had a private bathroom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There was a small glacier that was seen from our room's window. It looked very near to us, and we decided to trek towards it. Ramesh told us that the lunch would be ready by 1.30 PM, so we thought to utilize the time and proceeded towards the glacier. However, except CG and Dheeraj, no one were willing to join us. Hence only three of us continued our trek to the unknown glacier.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our initial assumption was that it would take around half an hour to climb and another twenty minutes to descend. But after we started to trek, our assumptions were totally wrong. The glacier was not that near as we thought, and it took us almost 75 minutes to reach there. A lot of adventure went in to conquer the glacier amidst slight drizzles.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dheeraj and CG</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh28t73LjoEukYHm6Gmx0M_aeZwqaWGsQjnAc0YbyXIvM76y8-mWhEYwvSoz3D4d_82ly7d7Isjp-jdxzVww-MlSFIGalrtTT8Ur9ehX2Tq7byOSh5Ij_IYEk4tTj8bxrekrQ7PnUxF6Jn0/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The terrain was completely filled with rocks. There was no path, and we had to make our own route.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipCrclvLaRW4xydNrgwP3IH1TDrV5xjHaHctqnfryMMBSJ4zrgyoDsC4s2B4hwJFNGtbLXEiOBBYDxWyOLX4w9YhRKn-qbROocOdVXU_RNCzGK2dz-F2CjA43csdI4H1VFyrW9nD6DATyO/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipCrclvLaRW4xydNrgwP3IH1TDrV5xjHaHctqnfryMMBSJ4zrgyoDsC4s2B4hwJFNGtbLXEiOBBYDxWyOLX4w9YhRKn-qbROocOdVXU_RNCzGK2dz-F2CjA43csdI4H1VFyrW9nD6DATyO/s640/11.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After reaching the glacier, our happiness knew no bounds. Though the water originating from the glacier was muddy, we did not hesitate to drink it. It was a different feeling and experience that we seldom get to enjoy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We returned to our home stay by 1.30 PM, and the physical stress was vanished by the hot lunch we ate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Post lunch, we had a small drive for about six kilometers along the right banks of the Parvati river. Believe me, the place that we saw during this time was really a dreamland. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was as if watching a suspense film, wherein each and every scene was totally dramatic.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJK7MJbA7B43ixjusl-IAvdPExnRA7h_K-ldIFhGesG637RL5w3ycAUwBSfCXyFkIJiQuwKAvVf_-MnAZTwgzX7BlteUJGbzxDnILjuQIOqWclBasiE496T_268k3i-_b9W7K_UwJBgIyC/s1600/mudd---11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJK7MJbA7B43ixjusl-IAvdPExnRA7h_K-ldIFhGesG637RL5w3ycAUwBSfCXyFkIJiQuwKAvVf_-MnAZTwgzX7BlteUJGbzxDnILjuQIOqWclBasiE496T_268k3i-_b9W7K_UwJBgIyC/s640/mudd---11.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Riot of colors<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8gtEZFqqS3N7CjsJePITBaXDSL_qNUp6uvNgS-7bWWPfvEOi4SPKkDdogK6DkP8HeOwEFHYD9qkw0BjQKOpbxobWk_YgkZbOJozS_HevlXzzBRtOD0MDyMZmu9bWooEVdnlRv8mT95WG/s1600/mudd---20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8gtEZFqqS3N7CjsJePITBaXDSL_qNUp6uvNgS-7bWWPfvEOi4SPKkDdogK6DkP8HeOwEFHYD9qkw0BjQKOpbxobWk_YgkZbOJozS_HevlXzzBRtOD0MDyMZmu9bWooEVdnlRv8mT95WG/s640/mudd---20.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I have never seen such a colorful place before. I really felt that god has painted this beautiful landscape using all the colors in his palette.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj270pj7GddxNEkCuCycsViksPUaW4kevF670Wf-FBU3DrYg7sLH__hwgOZnX1ykBg2BwjFP-onAwsJe1UyuL4HJD624UYSBrWsZzZid23mwCDopvPNVHxuQuwMq2hh1FBlUtRplCjI0FAb/s1600/ARJ_3377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj270pj7GddxNEkCuCycsViksPUaW4kevF670Wf-FBU3DrYg7sLH__hwgOZnX1ykBg2BwjFP-onAwsJe1UyuL4HJD624UYSBrWsZzZid23mwCDopvPNVHxuQuwMq2hh1FBlUtRplCjI0FAb/s640/ARJ_3377.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pin valley</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This place is home to some endemic animals such as Himalayan Ibex , Blue sheep and the Snow leopard.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IuSGHKzu_bCINhjy3lZB3T1k3xtXixBh3RwSE8JMQTa245XAPvYT_nVC6G8prEn3oHlCgDbi2t5JJuncLRLfpT2o1yklLFArgiebgizAuqMf_LyHrSOim0HztFxh-WnCdjJYC-M-eqce/s1600/mudh---1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IuSGHKzu_bCINhjy3lZB3T1k3xtXixBh3RwSE8JMQTa245XAPvYT_nVC6G8prEn3oHlCgDbi2t5JJuncLRLfpT2o1yklLFArgiebgizAuqMf_LyHrSOim0HztFxh-WnCdjJYC-M-eqce/s640/mudh---1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mudh village, as seen from a distant point in the Pin valley.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3-bZ1Fvelkearq8pLwR7wjSIRIOwfAYaxf1aD5vmAOTWNRv51eHk1HeQgTHYpGs2WKt6dGqQaGfm-bGaLI8smje3D7c8TLb-X7NA0zK-aFRWp5t_1nx-9z_fpkyOrUnRiIR21tKwX700/s1600/mudh---2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3-bZ1Fvelkearq8pLwR7wjSIRIOwfAYaxf1aD5vmAOTWNRv51eHk1HeQgTHYpGs2WKt6dGqQaGfm-bGaLI8smje3D7c8TLb-X7NA0zK-aFRWp5t_1nx-9z_fpkyOrUnRiIR21tKwX700/s640/mudh---2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Each and every mountain has a different color to offer its viewers. The different shades of every damn color on this earth can be seen here.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyupRpc_oJnQbMb9ctjPSYxvit7TPaVm1ClxaiQiePdy3WOcVFAFE0L8h88ExPlTZcdqdXVq2iYOnIIGaLliSgffdPMt9QNC_M-T-66Sj39GiFhseWfDJknCXv6Er-mpTGmWrCRM8yZlS/s1600/mudh---3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyupRpc_oJnQbMb9ctjPSYxvit7TPaVm1ClxaiQiePdy3WOcVFAFE0L8h88ExPlTZcdqdXVq2iYOnIIGaLliSgffdPMt9QNC_M-T-66Sj39GiFhseWfDJknCXv6Er-mpTGmWrCRM8yZlS/s640/mudh---3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: white;">When I was roaming around the mountain of Gods , along the Parvathi river in the pristine valley of a blessed village, I noticed something unique. So unique that I stopped for a while and gasped at the glory of the golden gardens.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcON6m8NkejErOMC1qGaVQQ60xAtsYaHLyN1q4IxXTsOnEpqMJRyLJm1d-bV1A5E3H7lxDyQfkBMdef2U1UuUQrLfxeB7c2hmHj0Os9NFkXs_donoNKS_6p_WisKXN7obdmoFjrBcixC9c/s1600/mudh---4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcON6m8NkejErOMC1qGaVQQ60xAtsYaHLyN1q4IxXTsOnEpqMJRyLJm1d-bV1A5E3H7lxDyQfkBMdef2U1UuUQrLfxeB7c2hmHj0Os9NFkXs_donoNKS_6p_WisKXN7obdmoFjrBcixC9c/s640/mudh---4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4f3ewrIz8D5QSOX0YJ6BZ_w5Dsm2dGGJ-Gu9zoMdgLO70D8u9BwJvcbvkRwg4fWA5q2VjkPxKk_i9wFGDSounHZUFJi-68PVtY6zwsTBGyBRNkdENZ1S6oGu_fNzhXfphgVhQ4T7lMSa7/s1600/Pin-valley-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4f3ewrIz8D5QSOX0YJ6BZ_w5Dsm2dGGJ-Gu9zoMdgLO70D8u9BwJvcbvkRwg4fWA5q2VjkPxKk_i9wFGDSounHZUFJi-68PVtY6zwsTBGyBRNkdENZ1S6oGu_fNzhXfphgVhQ4T7lMSa7/s640/Pin-valley-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white;">The rhythmic movement of clouds and the aroma of fresh air made me dance in the ether of space.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9sLn9E-0JJApp6V0bamkwfKmga7fnSVuy9HrReg0NZo_g0yWJm3yv7FJz16YjR5VnaaCBPpOaqddgN0wKpVB9kjvMu4z4V_InT71lAuWpeDEEu6mkI7cNhensV-KVCopXRnj6qjHuIdt/s1600/mudh---5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9sLn9E-0JJApp6V0bamkwfKmga7fnSVuy9HrReg0NZo_g0yWJm3yv7FJz16YjR5VnaaCBPpOaqddgN0wKpVB9kjvMu4z4V_InT71lAuWpeDEEu6mkI7cNhensV-KVCopXRnj6qjHuIdt/s640/mudh---5.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">All I could see was the various forms and colors of the mystical ornaments worn by the magical mountains that were very well complemented by the harmony and tranquil in the air. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white;">I could see nothing but the intertwined gems of ruby , emerald , turquoise and sapphires that were spread across acres and acres of the majestic playground of heaven.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">An abstract painting by the almighty</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Lungs of the mountains</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Grazing in the garden of Gods</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VIIoxjOS92ZnnD4n0ycIWBYcaFPdM7_KBoIKSIalUYGH-3Skn_ARkEBDgLj_QDvY7AIKU6P1pqzngGr2gIjXeud7TP35Rf7WgnhIFG21qOGylSOX2zYRSKd8bw8BItxDJA9b_r2-O4Gw/s1600/mudh---15-new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VIIoxjOS92ZnnD4n0ycIWBYcaFPdM7_KBoIKSIalUYGH-3Skn_ARkEBDgLj_QDvY7AIKU6P1pqzngGr2gIjXeud7TP35Rf7WgnhIFG21qOGylSOX2zYRSKd8bw8BItxDJA9b_r2-O4Gw/s640/mudh---15-new.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am really in short of words to explain this beautiful place. I would highly recommend my viewers to visit this place atleast once.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqSd-RCdof-N7NvoDAHdBjitrkWiu7wjGTqsY1rir6odZ259VYNMYncBh9jinAks3LldcYnIpWYJZTsDXb5zs2v5xrPatf61UF8CTb2bYojWgqr67IXD3jHVQ5UHCs3dh5lFlLjF6mHvh/s1600/Pin-valley-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqSd-RCdof-N7NvoDAHdBjitrkWiu7wjGTqsY1rir6odZ259VYNMYncBh9jinAks3LldcYnIpWYJZTsDXb5zs2v5xrPatf61UF8CTb2bYojWgqr67IXD3jHVQ5UHCs3dh5lFlLjF6mHvh/s640/Pin-valley-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSSFmnwJS6vxdrHPmdVm6Ed9Oc7sfKOC1z9tRfQTcJ9xIdOpHbsMtrNQPKo06M9VZXkfD4OmaYRi_oWoFpWnNkBSvWw9zn7wXSGIz9I5rjLH_aswc1DDc8LwOiXGj1cJvwjKw_kv8hTt5/s1600/mudh---16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSSFmnwJS6vxdrHPmdVm6Ed9Oc7sfKOC1z9tRfQTcJ9xIdOpHbsMtrNQPKo06M9VZXkfD4OmaYRi_oWoFpWnNkBSvWw9zn7wXSGIz9I5rjLH_aswc1DDc8LwOiXGj1cJvwjKw_kv8hTt5/s640/mudh---16.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Typical homes at Mudh village</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPCEmFj8Vp0iTdZXcwtpupt_2Y30hlwRHPPF8mPnmKlQJVz0WiKfw0VyALzCvKHBzc5pcH6GkAyz_BAYDg8SWpoApI6sox5GD2DJZ2sx3lLTRmEQQXU_YY_tZh3HXa_z4IYEYxmWg9Xwy/s1600/mudh---17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPCEmFj8Vp0iTdZXcwtpupt_2Y30hlwRHPPF8mPnmKlQJVz0WiKfw0VyALzCvKHBzc5pcH6GkAyz_BAYDg8SWpoApI6sox5GD2DJZ2sx3lLTRmEQQXU_YY_tZh3HXa_z4IYEYxmWg9Xwy/s640/mudh---17.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="426" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Peeping monk</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The evening snack was comprised of Hot Maggi , Pakodas , Momo and ginger honey tea. The company of these delicious items made the sunset even more beautiful.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaERCYdbJFma8RdjS5__-sUg4rQb3W0v7ieFm190PSx500NEq_E9upO6-5qEAMt9OmW-j0Qo9dissgmGvOkZFPw9xr9ueBwc6Himg3yLF5-vZP57mcyxVj88RCAXdxcbVdlQVqiBApXGir/s1600/mudh---18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaERCYdbJFma8RdjS5__-sUg4rQb3W0v7ieFm190PSx500NEq_E9upO6-5qEAMt9OmW-j0Qo9dissgmGvOkZFPw9xr9ueBwc6Himg3yLF5-vZP57mcyxVj88RCAXdxcbVdlQVqiBApXGir/s640/mudh---18.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Glowing mountains of the Pin Valley</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxdnUBToWW64QQrFb7Km0FJ3RgZv5zkVjqONWqUn6nm9HmS3KBCkrcFRiZxADPHZNvr3oprvXiM4ZNS5eVEflLhpKDTio9OWA4Pl7EL585Wxwf0C9udRbZYFkAgx1vcbajeMu_DdMIn6Z/s1600/mudh---19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxdnUBToWW64QQrFb7Km0FJ3RgZv5zkVjqONWqUn6nm9HmS3KBCkrcFRiZxADPHZNvr3oprvXiM4ZNS5eVEflLhpKDTio9OWA4Pl7EL585Wxwf0C9udRbZYFkAgx1vcbajeMu_DdMIn6Z/s640/mudh---19.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I thought of shooting star trails and milkyway after the sun went down. However, the weather played a spoilsport. Just after the sunset, the clouds started to cover the sky, and we could see no stars.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We played cards and sang songs before calling it a day. The dinner was finished in no time, and we hit the bed soon. I was thinking about all the experiences of Spiti valley and had no idea when sleep conquered me. It was really a blissful day for all of us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Early in the next morning, we set off to see a small waterfall beside our home stay. It was almost half a kilometer from the place where we stayed.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYB8AAmysM2U8BifIHqG2f5ATMcnM7dE8yS8mF_uXQyh5KfgGE-K3RO_6iP1Rc2DyL7BqHOspfwviuHGtx4Gh48Q_ONi0fv2-B8vl2QHzhd7cjDh4QtTSI8Xh73arCU6YwXEBfQZqUAw3/s1600/waterfalls-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYB8AAmysM2U8BifIHqG2f5ATMcnM7dE8yS8mF_uXQyh5KfgGE-K3RO_6iP1Rc2DyL7BqHOspfwviuHGtx4Gh48Q_ONi0fv2-B8vl2QHzhd7cjDh4QtTSI8Xh73arCU6YwXEBfQZqUAw3/s640/waterfalls-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Post breakfast, we headed back towards Kaza.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Useful information / Tips to the travelers :</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. There are very few hotels which provide you with accommodation</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Usually the home stays offer you food (with an additional cost). The food options are limited with just Indian and Chinese dishes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Do not expect luxury here. This place is only for travelers and not for tourists. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. The best time to visit Mudh is from June to September.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. Transportation to Mudh is limited. Very few government buses ply from Kaza. If you are having a private vehicle, then absolutely fine.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. No Mobile signals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">7. Electricity is very scarce , so charge your batteries when available.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">8. Do not litter the place, keep the Himalayas clean</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">9. "Snow Valley" is the name of the home stay where we stayed. It is decent and economical as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">10. Mudh is approximately 50kms from Kaza, which almost takes 2.5 hours to reach.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">11. There is a one day trek from Mudh to the Ibex valley </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(Tara homestay will help you in arranging). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thanks for viewing</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBA-CFJcoIS8IBB3ipSOGZX1dRhljJDOmOFPhofK6bhQgJ2yuICLDBYaeAq8ye38n095OrplMyyw1K_ygv7EIkd5WeBQFnOcxw9ciBAzmbxfEf8WLXr4IB-HkHrDzykau-IYomcbYfVFI_/s1600/leftarrows.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>How does the oldest monasteries of the Spiti valley look like ?? Click on the below link to know more</i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-kaza-and-beyond.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpAoVoo0rPwLVABVCZv_t-pDbdBBXNNPy-dEtoh5UN2MzSB8-1FbM5CDTUfKKijm_sNswleEDxp0gGZagauTNkACUPZ2B2BSVGM-iU6Aw7QkZ_x7faA5ZUWO-HqHuoIw1y8vmRPsP6yLs/s1600/left.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-kaza-and-beyond.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Kaza and beyond</span></a></i></span></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-kaza-and-beyond.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 4)</span></a></i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-ancient-centers-of.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOHTGokRDB-ZKEnhJmesZdGGiHZMiFRa7ihiJIoLUmF5YoDSK8buKRnkFA6CEqqwm_0FCkIddg0zRWECAL3RCBBJ6y8bHt1y9-hlTcRy5fP47g58BNPadKn-6F5v1mhEDBI3k3JA27Ucv/s1600/right.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-ancient-centers-of.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Tabo and Dhankar</span></a></i></span></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-ancient-centers-of.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 6)</span></a></i></span></b></td></tr>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-27711323851959467262016-10-31T18:39:00.000+05:302016-10-31T18:39:36.356+05:30Spectacular Spiti : Kaza and beyond<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #eeeeee; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Page 4)</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 5 - Aug 9th , 2016</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This day was meant to explore places in and around Kaza. We left Kaza by 6.30 AM and our next pit stop was a village called Komic.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Kaza :</u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Its mountainous terrain and pristine locales attract visitors who want to indulge in adventurous activities and spiritual well being alike. It is the base camp for trekking, mountaineering and other adventures.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7bGc27BtlsIKqOJ9bwJG8aOgv0Fropj5D_RAG0Bb9caSIBb9UfCmqyjh3s2ABiuWRkxeJJgzwmz8_dRXYsLUNWBVjSGIMv52ftdI24BMXEcRwy_fILmSkBgobXTZ4CrWDyy28QcBqE0u/s1600/29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7bGc27BtlsIKqOJ9bwJG8aOgv0Fropj5D_RAG0Bb9caSIBb9UfCmqyjh3s2ABiuWRkxeJJgzwmz8_dRXYsLUNWBVjSGIMv52ftdI24BMXEcRwy_fILmSkBgobXTZ4CrWDyy28QcBqE0u/s640/29.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pin-Parvati, Parang-La and Pin-Bhaba are some of the popular trails which start from Kaza. A gentle stroll to villages around Kaza can also be an interesting experience.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBj3vOsR1PPCl0LnmqdbnPZQdivTBY92fI6deoa2qPgRQ6CGEISQ9GP1TIy2zLgoYDZ1LK7bNmI9mBxvg-VlH_KKyabksE-D2HpWyV4PyNixv7RtYKwD93M6J8_YLI0bqtVSU3BYmvJgK/s1600/30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBj3vOsR1PPCl0LnmqdbnPZQdivTBY92fI6deoa2qPgRQ6CGEISQ9GP1TIy2zLgoYDZ1LK7bNmI9mBxvg-VlH_KKyabksE-D2HpWyV4PyNixv7RtYKwD93M6J8_YLI0bqtVSU3BYmvJgK/s640/30.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Rangrik village as seen from Kaza</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kaza can be accessed from Kinnaur Valley and Lahaul Valley. Though the Kinnaur Valley route remains open throughout the year, the Lahaul Valley route remains open only during summers as the Kunzam Pass closes during winters.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ5TfL9P0oNlOpvbaiQL7H_-b_jMapf__F1ZY3z_X2JszGmGLGMNSHAfOkrLOhYY5hvRpWEH39eiZZ75MW7wUkRfsUhBk_D1pCn3vt4-KnmI0P79YkgkgA0bS82O5vW1h1_6ullMVb0b9A/s1600/kaza-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ5TfL9P0oNlOpvbaiQL7H_-b_jMapf__F1ZY3z_X2JszGmGLGMNSHAfOkrLOhYY5hvRpWEH39eiZZ75MW7wUkRfsUhBk_D1pCn3vt4-KnmI0P79YkgkgA0bS82O5vW1h1_6ullMVb0b9A/s640/kaza-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Winters in Kaza are severe with the temperature plunging to sub-zero levels. Locals remain within the confines of their households and venture out only if absolutely necessary.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU4uZq4pM2S72q_Ph-BsMvqFtrwhiYFfbXRkq-QW1yL8SBVd-NLarV1KO-c5dsZvz6BmXImkF2EVEGnr7IRddqnS4ugHPtx0e-IX7tCjofZQ6r_iXMRVl_p2QGB6UAGy1aLD1fNx12DOh/s1600/Kaza---2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU4uZq4pM2S72q_Ph-BsMvqFtrwhiYFfbXRkq-QW1yL8SBVd-NLarV1KO-c5dsZvz6BmXImkF2EVEGnr7IRddqnS4ugHPtx0e-IX7tCjofZQ6r_iXMRVl_p2QGB6UAGy1aLD1fNx12DOh/s640/Kaza---2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kaza boasts of high mountains with snowy crowns, crystal clear rivers, streams and barren splendor interspersed with patches of green. Kaza is known for its colorful festivals and the Sakya Tangyud Monastery.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB5lC4I8tBXMq5i5AfckWhjBq7ZzNTl3u4Xr2p1zeCbuIQodNSjakUaAYemkWTETV6TgS815oDWBg3ThXLxOa0K5MUQIeHx6JXHaI9oxyBeRtvHeqVPN32hKEm8Lpm-mVDKrFEJHL24HcS/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB5lC4I8tBXMq5i5AfckWhjBq7ZzNTl3u4Xr2p1zeCbuIQodNSjakUaAYemkWTETV6TgS815oDWBg3ThXLxOa0K5MUQIeHx6JXHaI9oxyBeRtvHeqVPN32hKEm8Lpm-mVDKrFEJHL24HcS/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQ-AHJwfM3kz1Tj-PahXZuSUqVK5S0CGDJs_RH91xzUQ41bpevYN35C58z3xCsg85kN3mlYxmv5loixmUNh5GErTES_-SVra9yKJoUTo3eeDX8mPmuNX_HLikSfkFXSAf_PYe984yfwzu/s1600/kaza-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQ-AHJwfM3kz1Tj-PahXZuSUqVK5S0CGDJs_RH91xzUQ41bpevYN35C58z3xCsg85kN3mlYxmv5loixmUNh5GErTES_-SVra9yKJoUTo3eeDX8mPmuNX_HLikSfkFXSAf_PYe984yfwzu/s640/kaza-9.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The early morning light made the whole Spiti valley to glow in gold. The village of Rangrik as seen from Kaza.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The route from Kaza to Komic is very scenic, as the journey traverses through high altitude villages , green pastures , snow peaks , monasteries.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQVwQYxQuwbyj9DOLglnYg6CZdzB_W3KLFgt6GiEMJ-P92RicU8iv5_bVEz5r67bIr7Zi5W_o6zP2d55tZR8e5WmL9Y8wwLIEAHp7qfuil4yzDrIaCFtm9De2uC_v5GQVlak4KyWQ7qs9/s1600/Landscape-Kaza-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQVwQYxQuwbyj9DOLglnYg6CZdzB_W3KLFgt6GiEMJ-P92RicU8iv5_bVEz5r67bIr7Zi5W_o6zP2d55tZR8e5WmL9Y8wwLIEAHp7qfuil4yzDrIaCFtm9De2uC_v5GQVlak4KyWQ7qs9/s640/Landscape-Kaza-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kanamo peak : </span></u></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This white peak towers 5964m above sea level. Located above Kibber and Ki gompa, the holiest mountain in Spiti. Ka means white or auspicious and Namo means hostess or a lady so Kanamo means the mountain is a good omen or simply a white hostess.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACVlMGUn9aB-3vrasj9sqtIsAaQng6EXzt9cmyuEv0bdDXmp-hnRCo1zC-YYVRJ0vFhv-4bSBzXlcXpe5XBSWoEgGhNj4Rnd1TVUqX0ggMGZdeFZv0KuYg__YySUjA7Z_rsZil029Um4m/s1600/Landscape-Kaza-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACVlMGUn9aB-3vrasj9sqtIsAaQng6EXzt9cmyuEv0bdDXmp-hnRCo1zC-YYVRJ0vFhv-4bSBzXlcXpe5XBSWoEgGhNj4Rnd1TVUqX0ggMGZdeFZv0KuYg__YySUjA7Z_rsZil029Um4m/s640/Landscape-Kaza-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKowW372gCnve8wuVSr8szMuEimA8BLhl5BLfz8bBv8AhnpQ8dVisZeuP_7xuCQiBbu6-aTACdM4pyb8_rjz17KmPRvbDX3tHPHbutBSdT2kRnSd5V-A_vmjApB7_kE9NK6NTd7HhtStgS/s1600/Landscape-Kaza-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKowW372gCnve8wuVSr8szMuEimA8BLhl5BLfz8bBv8AhnpQ8dVisZeuP_7xuCQiBbu6-aTACdM4pyb8_rjz17KmPRvbDX3tHPHbutBSdT2kRnSd5V-A_vmjApB7_kE9NK6NTd7HhtStgS/s640/Landscape-Kaza-3.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This beautiful peak can be seen while travelling from Kaza to Komic village. We then spotted a Himalayan Red Fox crossing the road. I had not carried my telephoto lens, and hence missed the opportunity of shooting it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Langza :</u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nestled between the mountains in a bowl shaped area in the Spiti Valley is a small remote village named Langza. This village is situated at an altitude of 14,500 feet above sea level in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh in northern India.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGjD6FHAAV9t31FyExRkBQyfMUjvwh4Q-Ky1KltczqSDEtlxkIfIdCP-V72CCaGFF4BDOFxSnZ_86FlbZcon7gLnpP-PZwbtRY2U8VF0ityosCVgtTx5hYqJtUUuaAmARAwWeQot487DjM/s1600/langza-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGjD6FHAAV9t31FyExRkBQyfMUjvwh4Q-Ky1KltczqSDEtlxkIfIdCP-V72CCaGFF4BDOFxSnZ_86FlbZcon7gLnpP-PZwbtRY2U8VF0ityosCVgtTx5hYqJtUUuaAmARAwWeQot487DjM/s640/langza-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At the first glance of the village, one will instantly notice a huge Golden coloured Buddha statue which is believed to be around 1000 years old.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyXHDM98MN4NiSp1Dn-tSRAgqd81ozVID1jvxL-7_BPwwJmjaVvviWLfWGigCs5yA_F5L0uaGNL9HTau7qWuUdMyMaK5v9e8-maFy4L_SbENVxH5r4pwUYJ9BksE6qw5E5LtrUU-tb5xo/s1600/31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyXHDM98MN4NiSp1Dn-tSRAgqd81ozVID1jvxL-7_BPwwJmjaVvviWLfWGigCs5yA_F5L0uaGNL9HTau7qWuUdMyMaK5v9e8-maFy4L_SbENVxH5r4pwUYJ9BksE6qw5E5LtrUU-tb5xo/s640/31.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As the tourism in this region has increased in the past few years, more and more houses have turned into home stays providing the travellers with accommodation and food options.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiteX2b7eseecDe6nM-j9OIydR3LJ4GdGfALk8bFF3FHssJ6q0ChPIrZa0y2bgqMhsc1REOD9ahqHudu7iz2E0370aGwk8RbgD8MQ_qbviZCG4xAnzcfAyDpaeSCZwLqMEsYg72Qw1RzdnL/s1600/32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiteX2b7eseecDe6nM-j9OIydR3LJ4GdGfALk8bFF3FHssJ6q0ChPIrZa0y2bgqMhsc1REOD9ahqHudu7iz2E0370aGwk8RbgD8MQ_qbviZCG4xAnzcfAyDpaeSCZwLqMEsYg72Qw1RzdnL/s640/32.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The main occupation of the people of Langza is agriculture. They grow peas and other small crops in the region. Apart from agriculture, tourism and homestay business is gradually increasing.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBPDk9XG04vORqOKrZdJHL0a29gWunCNZWOoiUV2VAkx4zviTLcsxGRiR73kR4SABweQJedKJAufzPMLQT-S_aQ7OqzfNv3UTRvtKccupU0OuICDsgXS0UFdGVcvS9Fsx4rY1GWFrsla_/s1600/langza-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBPDk9XG04vORqOKrZdJHL0a29gWunCNZWOoiUV2VAkx4zviTLcsxGRiR73kR4SABweQJedKJAufzPMLQT-S_aQ7OqzfNv3UTRvtKccupU0OuICDsgXS0UFdGVcvS9Fsx4rY1GWFrsla_/s640/langza-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Komic :</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The next visit was to a village called Komic. This village has the record of being the "World's highest village with motorable road". This village has a small monastery and few houses in its vicinity.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPok3cDSsEaQ9N1moG1N0gAI54-pc-DGcZFcEgBMZ5MtsWocAQeW1On2Nm71xVwCwkBSvhis6ObRtOcDa5tP-VxyecAXoepeyLELl4gCU9Q1cvCK9Hy24YApLY4rMcBVY0RFFaIJqFldAP/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPok3cDSsEaQ9N1moG1N0gAI54-pc-DGcZFcEgBMZ5MtsWocAQeW1On2Nm71xVwCwkBSvhis6ObRtOcDa5tP-VxyecAXoepeyLELl4gCU9Q1cvCK9Hy24YApLY4rMcBVY0RFFaIJqFldAP/s640/9.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWD1JZhzODAmtOWTFHXdBzleJPkaoZBdDnEtaBwOxBUuvUvVxkjdunRhIrFD6rRh-jd25cKGKF0AZmSA2vt19kzDTcyo4UkOZSoFqyizgeM8pKZkCzY3pDf_IpAdDDTcaOkkqoEFQqbSZv/s1600/komic-monastery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWD1JZhzODAmtOWTFHXdBzleJPkaoZBdDnEtaBwOxBUuvUvVxkjdunRhIrFD6rRh-jd25cKGKF0AZmSA2vt19kzDTcyo4UkOZSoFqyizgeM8pKZkCzY3pDf_IpAdDDTcaOkkqoEFQqbSZv/s640/komic-monastery.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLWrllHri-qC3A57Sg2id_bRdIQ5Cv_VV_FkeDW4xoPewjFDrwNVvkjH-dytrM_nub6qb5lGH-9IKEgQJjaZWASzxPwL5CnOg8r8ncHZJKTO6sK1cGz7N93vQ4ZdF4Y65STyUdcBkf4NFe/s1600/climbing-monk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLWrllHri-qC3A57Sg2id_bRdIQ5Cv_VV_FkeDW4xoPewjFDrwNVvkjH-dytrM_nub6qb5lGH-9IKEgQJjaZWASzxPwL5CnOg8r8ncHZJKTO6sK1cGz7N93vQ4ZdF4Y65STyUdcBkf4NFe/s640/climbing-monk.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7oEjR4zLEh4M-XThi0vJIYo9y67wH-onm8gK_G8-IJZkk6YWMzTbrc2V9OLAftflHHW3POPHvO46XdzEy08g9LFDEhb2oC61JBT-i6Gk64TAP6gBDX7Jg5OtiE-rP_-l4uCP_poxr-udH/s1600/Lonely-sentinel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7oEjR4zLEh4M-XThi0vJIYo9y67wH-onm8gK_G8-IJZkk6YWMzTbrc2V9OLAftflHHW3POPHvO46XdzEy08g9LFDEhb2oC61JBT-i6Gk64TAP6gBDX7Jg5OtiE-rP_-l4uCP_poxr-udH/s640/Lonely-sentinel.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hikkim:</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hikkim is a small sleepy hamlet which is around 2-3 kms to the village of Komic. From a far distance, Hikkim looks very similar to Langza and can be easily misunderstood. But the village is entirely different.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYl1JmQxqnTmq3j5nUzSu4bK5Kj0wa6kua-cmmaI2xgUs6zv2VjqmqmeM5wWLQFcG0mQOP6k49xaN8F-8dbYSJk2MnAsIIEORpc9X2NI731JG8fa2Wc0CYkfrbPmeWwlpnyGE6Or2tl6q/s1600/hikkim-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYl1JmQxqnTmq3j5nUzSu4bK5Kj0wa6kua-cmmaI2xgUs6zv2VjqmqmeM5wWLQFcG0mQOP6k49xaN8F-8dbYSJk2MnAsIIEORpc9X2NI731JG8fa2Wc0CYkfrbPmeWwlpnyGE6Or2tl6q/s640/hikkim-4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hikkim is famous for two reasons. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1) Highest post office in the world</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2) Highest poling booth in India</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEFcYm2JphyphenhyphenLjf3M-2VdoxENdfIeRM0Au2H0m1HXkkmRV6R-V-IOIuvda6akuHUAC9JLyr9lvIdXeczXc5pOE_RTxaQqROMuySaSNc_Ucy2TuRjXT9UNrE5aIy-XZeid4WZ-6VwOOZK7f/s1600/hikkim-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEFcYm2JphyphenhyphenLjf3M-2VdoxENdfIeRM0Au2H0m1HXkkmRV6R-V-IOIuvda6akuHUAC9JLyr9lvIdXeczXc5pOE_RTxaQqROMuySaSNc_Ucy2TuRjXT9UNrE5aIy-XZeid4WZ-6VwOOZK7f/s640/hikkim-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuShCXMS1XKOoK5Pj6bgDL1BxRsjSINDD7H-VTWJUymshYDyMQnLYMbCMx05AvKYsqRiBqwb_A68UR7Sg2Bcl2o3pVFYaFW_7X43tyeKQEatH0mNEK5WTS6TcXOGBJ_aC2Cs-5289_ITlC/s1600/hikkim-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuShCXMS1XKOoK5Pj6bgDL1BxRsjSINDD7H-VTWJUymshYDyMQnLYMbCMx05AvKYsqRiBqwb_A68UR7Sg2Bcl2o3pVFYaFW_7X43tyeKQEatH0mNEK5WTS6TcXOGBJ_aC2Cs-5289_ITlC/s640/hikkim-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since this place had a record of being the world's highest post office, we thought of sending a post card back home. However, the post office had been locked and the person incharge was farming somewhere nearby. With the help of local kids, we found him and fulfilled our wish to send postcards.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PfVuy4v1yp5Ce6gGpqkZUlRbJB9G960EbOz9iB0QlVNnGnyTyCANd8NusJy06sLdA5Lbs03eK3uvEn1yJ-z_1wQCFmIlKNME2b2IVgZvloDd2yWs8lQgZ49P7ghlJCGxyhrT8mAKjbbq/s1600/33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PfVuy4v1yp5Ce6gGpqkZUlRbJB9G960EbOz9iB0QlVNnGnyTyCANd8NusJy06sLdA5Lbs03eK3uvEn1yJ-z_1wQCFmIlKNME2b2IVgZvloDd2yWs8lQgZ49P7ghlJCGxyhrT8mAKjbbq/s640/33.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Engaging with these kids is very much fun. I got to know a lot about their lifestyles and much more about the place. In return, we gave them some chocolates.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We visited the house of a Lama at Hikkim, where we were served with one of the best ginger-lemon tea, that I had ever had. This place is also a home stay where tourists can halt.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I really admired at the simplicity and hospitality of these wonderful human beings. Seeing such selfless people makes us think how cruel the urban people are.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With a heavy heart, we bid these lovely people and kids goodbye and returned to Kaza for lunch.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a shortcut route from Hikkim to Kaza. You need not touch Langza while returning.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ePbjMzdPj3VllAtjHuAOX9UzElj19O3pKLqSZ-Z-XjFPL9th70xR6nk559tax1awh3r8mJ8PGYXlhyphenhyphen6axERSdUM3MbGK_rqjKoUj2Za8Mqp-TYCL0CyWH2E3KxIrH37_vq2ioDNGKnzZ/s1600/kaza-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ePbjMzdPj3VllAtjHuAOX9UzElj19O3pKLqSZ-Z-XjFPL9th70xR6nk559tax1awh3r8mJ8PGYXlhyphenhyphen6axERSdUM3MbGK_rqjKoUj2Za8Mqp-TYCL0CyWH2E3KxIrH37_vq2ioDNGKnzZ/s640/kaza-8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The whole expanse of Spiti valley can be seen from the top. The city of Kaza as seen from a bird's eye view.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I had to recharge my batteries before we left for Key and Kibber. While having lunch at the hotel, I put them for charge and made sure both my battery and stomach were fully charged.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the meanwhile, Tanzin suggested us to visit Chicham village before visiting Kaza. This lies on the Kibber - Kaza route.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Kibber :</u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We left Kaza by 2.30 PM and headed towards Kibber. Kibber was earlier the highest village with motorable road before Komic.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDdQTrSZ0dFvSq3oYyypll49heh8rwVMuJiStiMPid6ebUVj-kXCHcQ7zep9FEqpKudFesHWXYW4i71VJAuQbB7hkyYRSCmuvVohIbUdYRA78P9UUA0JU54RiNzRteI90RL4WRe9W_x7E/s1600/34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDdQTrSZ0dFvSq3oYyypll49heh8rwVMuJiStiMPid6ebUVj-kXCHcQ7zep9FEqpKudFesHWXYW4i71VJAuQbB7hkyYRSCmuvVohIbUdYRA78P9UUA0JU54RiNzRteI90RL4WRe9W_x7E/s640/34.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Houses are constructed in the Tibetan architectural style, as the land in Lahul and Spiti is mountainous and quite prone to earthquakes. The rooftop is loaded with dried branches or twigs to serve both as a cushion and insulation during snowfall</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnKMvPNrkUCwTYqBF3QnFPhX0PtsdV6Bz91gpI9RJBzH_gdtnOxsVOr2os2TMih8FUrsQX12ny1w8vYkZTI0xEED3MwJGYXxYIPYmyzu_KsNBG0z7-zsqfL5rRcDA6jekQehyphenhyphen1pm-eunZQ/s1600/kibber-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnKMvPNrkUCwTYqBF3QnFPhX0PtsdV6Bz91gpI9RJBzH_gdtnOxsVOr2os2TMih8FUrsQX12ny1w8vYkZTI0xEED3MwJGYXxYIPYmyzu_KsNBG0z7-zsqfL5rRcDA6jekQehyphenhyphen1pm-eunZQ/s640/kibber-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Agriculture is the main source of livelihood. Potato farming is common. Occupations include animal husbandry, working in government programs, government services, and other businesses and crafts that include weaving. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We then proceeded towards Chicham village, where the highest bridge was being constructed. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim158PsKNDIzq9FePHROlzzR3MBNS4Zsran5R5AoAOALN-n6WRHs6ZGq3Abek9QRWAqyv6GEpJ7mE_Ls-pElH9sHxd0Id9iyBgQGzT1lt3jp6TUPAuGG1c7mlcuYeNgwvhW5zvXE9kARAu/s1600/highest-bridge-chicham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim158PsKNDIzq9FePHROlzzR3MBNS4Zsran5R5AoAOALN-n6WRHs6ZGq3Abek9QRWAqyv6GEpJ7mE_Ls-pElH9sHxd0Id9iyBgQGzT1lt3jp6TUPAuGG1c7mlcuYeNgwvhW5zvXE9kARAu/s640/highest-bridge-chicham.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Highest bridge under construction</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju67uUqM00F-BfC8jWm-wbV9yvABtdNbiPiO9Pds7EC5iprFH8XfQ1xEE3-cFnmYxyKPaErg6e7bQJeqLBE9tiTnq2QfctQDQv9xE2LDFfRfsppxVKBAvnWnwKXQXTlaAUyRNUJOD6sVcg/s1600/chicham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju67uUqM00F-BfC8jWm-wbV9yvABtdNbiPiO9Pds7EC5iprFH8XfQ1xEE3-cFnmYxyKPaErg6e7bQJeqLBE9tiTnq2QfctQDQv9xE2LDFfRfsppxVKBAvnWnwKXQXTlaAUyRNUJOD6sVcg/s640/chicham.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Chicham village as seen from Kibber</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUC-rQKwp7Qn6bqT-RmAnMmVuzswyxXimtKSs5bkj1eaDn3OH8ii3wisiB0aGcftzAIwA9yjmRuFX_yspuFyPBOFYwJDt_DRcOMSuB7ImyEi7euyka2YXt3zVnz5mZ3itcXSZhPE5t-uj/s1600/ARJ_3029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUC-rQKwp7Qn6bqT-RmAnMmVuzswyxXimtKSs5bkj1eaDn3OH8ii3wisiB0aGcftzAIwA9yjmRuFX_yspuFyPBOFYwJDt_DRcOMSuB7ImyEi7euyka2YXt3zVnz5mZ3itcXSZhPE5t-uj/s640/ARJ_3029.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our next visit for the day was to Key monastery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Key Gompa is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located on top of a hill at an altitude of 4,166 metres (13,668 ft) above sea level, close to the Spiti River, in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Lahaul and Spiti district, India.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is the biggest monastery of Spiti Valley and a religious training centre for Lamas.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJ-09nSiKZjTeSRYLPIkPULeih5sWmEeqMGBk8ChsU4_rVHvCHLw33sOzAnvi5UujdLDnwSwF57hgbmWatW7P803iuZRyQgVtlK2kZgbUGmAsSjIzTLUvIxy6zVGX1GedK18BX6hb3FMb/s1600/key-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJ-09nSiKZjTeSRYLPIkPULeih5sWmEeqMGBk8ChsU4_rVHvCHLw33sOzAnvi5UujdLDnwSwF57hgbmWatW7P803iuZRyQgVtlK2kZgbUGmAsSjIzTLUvIxy6zVGX1GedK18BX6hb3FMb/s640/key-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Key monastery is probably the most visited place in the Spiti valley. This may be due to its close proximity to Kaza, and also due to its religious significance.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The group of buildings surrounding the monastery is truly an arhitectural marvel. The monastery is built on top of the hill, and small houses surround the main monastery.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1hs6Czc_U8-Xo53ZPAbI1LxthcU0zQBv-jWxxVZ1WH2ik_rRq5rEwIsFv57uTXNUP22VQE__0W4R7MsVKChg8Z_0k3vjbuAZ1ZRYbYuGz5s4KxVcEIFotE9coKoaMdp8OCYOacylqul7/s1600/Key-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1hs6Czc_U8-Xo53ZPAbI1LxthcU0zQBv-jWxxVZ1WH2ik_rRq5rEwIsFv57uTXNUP22VQE__0W4R7MsVKChg8Z_0k3vjbuAZ1ZRYbYuGz5s4KxVcEIFotE9coKoaMdp8OCYOacylqul7/s640/Key-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This place has a lot of historical importance as well. This was under attacks by several kingdoms including Mongols as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Key Monastery was destroyed by invaders and rebuilt several times. It was also caught by fire and has suffered extensive damage due to an earthquake. Having been rebuilt several times, temples and other buildings appear to have been stacked haphazardly. The monastery appears like a fortress.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are no much eateries at Key. You might have to carry yourselves or have to reach Kaza.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt79Rr5oExPkdhoYsY_XyFf47lEischqjJtOh7LgJh34sC_GD0tGY50GywdokzAYia8Cyj6M1awzuitWFnCX-tR-mwWw_EPMctFciWT7aPM_G8RMQ-TWmdDu7OzOZA1M09Zhw6NZUHMA9F/s1600/kaza-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt79Rr5oExPkdhoYsY_XyFf47lEischqjJtOh7LgJh34sC_GD0tGY50GywdokzAYia8Cyj6M1awzuitWFnCX-tR-mwWw_EPMctFciWT7aPM_G8RMQ-TWmdDu7OzOZA1M09Zhw6NZUHMA9F/s640/kaza-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A agricultural field seen near Key monastery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Spiti river as seen from Key monastery</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A young monk was seen playing near his home, and I got few opportunities to shoot some photographs of him.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After cherishing the sunset from Key, we headed towards Kaza to mark the end of the day. This was one of the most beautiful day of the trip. We got to witness the varied flora , fauna , culture , people , monuments & food of the Spiti valley.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The day ended with yet another sighting of the Himalayan Red Fox. This time, I made sure to carry my telephoto lens. Though the lighting was very bad, I managed to get some record shots. All were handheld at 6400 ISO (now imagine the lighting condition) :) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was a great sighting of this cute animal. It is difficult to spot this, as it is highly camouflaged and is quicker than the shutter speed of the camera.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We returned back to Kaza with a box full of wonderful memories of the Spiti valley.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A small stroll along the Kaza bazaar and a sumptuous dinner made us hit the bed early. We had few more experiences that were waiting to be unfolded the next day, that made us wonder about the next journey</span><br />
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<b style="color: #6aa84f;"><u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Useful information / Tips to the travelers :</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. There are many hotels which provide you with accommodation at Kaza</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Number of eateries at Kaza are also on the higher side. You get to eat Indian , Chinese and other continental dishes.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Schools , hospitals, government offices , markets , Gompas , monastery and Petrol/Diesel stations are available here.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. The best time to visit Kaza is from June to September. However, you can visit any time of the year.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. Transportation to Kaza can be by private hired vehicles from Manali or Shimla.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. Only one government bus runs per day from Manali to Kaza.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">7. Mobile signals are very weak, and only BSNL works</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">8. Electricity is very scarce , so charge your batteries when available.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">9. Manali to Kaza route will be closed in Winters. However, Kaza can be reached by the Kinnaur route from Shimla even in winters.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">10. Small homestays offer you with basic accommodation and food at Komic , Hikkim and Langza</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">11. Government run bus facilities are very limited to these remote places.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">12. "Hotel Spiti Valley" is the name of the hotel where we stayed during our visit to Kaza. It is a decent hotel and pocket friendly as well. Food is provided at an additional cost</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">13. Do not miss to visit the Kaza bazar to purchase the souvenirs of the Spiti valley</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">14. No shops are available at Langza , Hikkim or Komic. You will have to purchase anything that you require at Kaza itself.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thanks for viewing</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>How does the last village at Pin valley look like ? Click on the below link to know more</i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-kaza-via.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpAoVoo0rPwLVABVCZv_t-pDbdBBXNNPy-dEtoh5UN2MzSB8-1FbM5CDTUfKKijm_sNswleEDxp0gGZagauTNkACUPZ2B2BSVGM-iU6Aw7QkZ_x7faA5ZUWO-HqHuoIw1y8vmRPsP6yLs/s1600/left.JPG" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-kaza-via.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Journey to Kaza</span></a></i></span></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-kaza-via.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 3)</span></a></i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-pin-parvati-valley.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOHTGokRDB-ZKEnhJmesZdGGiHZMiFRa7ihiJIoLUmF5YoDSK8buKRnkFA6CEqqwm_0FCkIddg0zRWECAL3RCBBJ6y8bHt1y9-hlTcRy5fP47g58BNPadKn-6F5v1mhEDBI3k3JA27Ucv/s1600/right.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-pin-parvati-valley.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Pin Valley</span></a></i></span></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-pin-parvati-valley.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 5)</span></a></i></span></b></td></tr>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-62695285799402572912016-10-31T18:36:00.000+05:302016-10-31T18:36:54.197+05:30Spectacular Spiti : Journey to Kaza (via Kunzum Pass and Losar)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 4 - Aug 8th , 2016</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By 8.00 AM, we bid good bye to this beautiful emerald lake and hoped to visit this lovely place once again.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcWshdKYzvFpzzr_h0Ev-3lLlEif099Y9Q7VeU_jg4vsJSpDGYXAqWQCDPIQMJ4i4Hnw0m2kAN-4Y6xWyKu3DXX3fvJkZBlkONmujuLmZX7U2eaXBAZiM4d496dr5NlpZkfEI333m5ryz/s1600/Chandertal-Kaza-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcWshdKYzvFpzzr_h0Ev-3lLlEif099Y9Q7VeU_jg4vsJSpDGYXAqWQCDPIQMJ4i4Hnw0m2kAN-4Y6xWyKu3DXX3fvJkZBlkONmujuLmZX7U2eaXBAZiM4d496dr5NlpZkfEI333m5ryz/s640/Chandertal-Kaza-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While the charming Chandertal was still lingering in our heads, we set off to explore the interior Spiti valley. Our destination for the day was Kaza, which is an important economic district head of the Spiti valley.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The next pitstop was Kunzum pass, which was just 6-7 kms from Chandertal.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi75WMcShRTGyRYtqSlFLVwlrJLlTagH7p2-eblB3ZyzAZ7xb1o9CqiXAfZQVP1C40onqXPfSHARF-2jTzO_oq8riGq0XDrSpNHdmIN28ostd_rsPY-JliKdvSuCg1U4kCzBKb__99BXfDW/s1600/26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi75WMcShRTGyRYtqSlFLVwlrJLlTagH7p2-eblB3ZyzAZ7xb1o9CqiXAfZQVP1C40onqXPfSHARF-2jTzO_oq8riGq0XDrSpNHdmIN28ostd_rsPY-JliKdvSuCg1U4kCzBKb__99BXfDW/s640/26.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kunzum Pass is a high mountain pass on the eastern Kunzum Range of the Himalayas some 120 km from Manali. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxzHhZ6K04sz_5TBANXAM0PXS0G0r87vmX7MZtjA15NOhRgSj5dOHlwZzE-hOKc5SLhTB9bHegLquFrF8RNEvSwnaw5M495J-k0qhEdAySjFN6c0G6NM05P5MPraz1BFKMBaWSVp9Isyo/s1600/27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxzHhZ6K04sz_5TBANXAM0PXS0G0r87vmX7MZtjA15NOhRgSj5dOHlwZzE-hOKc5SLhTB9bHegLquFrF8RNEvSwnaw5M495J-k0qhEdAySjFN6c0G6NM05P5MPraz1BFKMBaWSVp9Isyo/s640/27.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It connects the Kullu Valley and Lahaul Valley with the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is on the route to Kaza, the subdivisional headquarters of Spiti. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Kk49O7HLD-3a04rHtJ88ibsBlktaZwzaZNd8OVbDRydYWfvdch9oseOpssLjxGBsRyZHstI4B2xbRGN1fu2-A4-Pvpf-gpiXvfr6Ovn8vkplcJVvhACuMvcjnEcteSS2HNvb9N6W3fgc/s1600/28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Kk49O7HLD-3a04rHtJ88ibsBlktaZwzaZNd8OVbDRydYWfvdch9oseOpssLjxGBsRyZHstI4B2xbRGN1fu2-A4-Pvpf-gpiXvfr6Ovn8vkplcJVvhACuMvcjnEcteSS2HNvb9N6W3fgc/s640/28.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The 'Congress Kadle Kai' from Iyengar bakery in Bangalore was a good companion for us in the trip. The cold weather and the tangy peanuts made a deadly combination. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgpWtSrPAMWyK-lBAiQ8H72EVFw5fNXgQ7Pkh2fIpyxpQ5GIyhRpUZU0ea8e8ErXKLi7wb3S4d4YD9jh3Ln4WQN-wV70g2R9E1tMmJOD6Sxl3UNhnCYeswNOPeKTJh6BYXMIIx009Gru9/s1600/kunzum-pass-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgpWtSrPAMWyK-lBAiQ8H72EVFw5fNXgQ7Pkh2fIpyxpQ5GIyhRpUZU0ea8e8ErXKLi7wb3S4d4YD9jh3Ln4WQN-wV70g2R9E1tMmJOD6Sxl3UNhnCYeswNOPeKTJh6BYXMIIx009Gru9/s640/kunzum-pass-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is also a religious belief at Kunzum stupa, which goes like this. "If you place a coin on top of the main deity, and if the coin sticks to it, then your wish would be fulfilled"</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWG1ZEfEDYuxti7-IoOX-QrzBuUkT_I5JbNfqRyJ5R9NCs3fNd1v_32QE83ZTUsBVSC04GurLLZaTRY3MiovpjNSbmJ7nZJbi8p9tykvrKajRrJ9rfQuCpn2aLxDyjkz1OsFS9TWwXwSLJ/s1600/kunzum-pass-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWG1ZEfEDYuxti7-IoOX-QrzBuUkT_I5JbNfqRyJ5R9NCs3fNd1v_32QE83ZTUsBVSC04GurLLZaTRY3MiovpjNSbmJ7nZJbi8p9tykvrKajRrJ9rfQuCpn2aLxDyjkz1OsFS9TWwXwSLJ/s640/kunzum-pass-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Buddhist prayer flags are tied everywhere. According to Buddhism, these prayer flags connect you to the almighty.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dQqbELSxkSbflQj3dj2lJWDxcRds5UTCvVs9bhv8MubwJRj58U2Y4140nKBHV2oFRJkvWcejMtm49ItpjBP-neptjUqKkb5JeuJP5ui5-PSpESvEc8WEucr3V2IRR8CvfEeydMUZ277c/s1600/kunzum-pass-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dQqbELSxkSbflQj3dj2lJWDxcRds5UTCvVs9bhv8MubwJRj58U2Y4140nKBHV2oFRJkvWcejMtm49ItpjBP-neptjUqKkb5JeuJP5ui5-PSpESvEc8WEucr3V2IRR8CvfEeydMUZ277c/s640/kunzum-pass-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">All your prayers will reach the god through wind is their belief.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The journey from Kunzum to Kaza is breathtaking. The arid yet vibrant mountains on both sides, high passes , cold winds , valleys and rivers make you feel blessed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The roads on this route were better compared to the ones we travelled yesterday.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh60q7-XuV8_2cVItiOpefzHHT59KsdPHfzlb7BDa6LHuH-qYmnqhyWCs541TT27Vl11xCFpoq57GvE3RIEJJreiQbF2yIDJ83lNWM-HpuNhESBd7bBHlNRfcJ8pUvYch0eooS34XAnVIMX/s1600/Chandertal-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh60q7-XuV8_2cVItiOpefzHHT59KsdPHfzlb7BDa6LHuH-qYmnqhyWCs541TT27Vl11xCFpoq57GvE3RIEJJreiQbF2yIDJ83lNWM-HpuNhESBd7bBHlNRfcJ8pUvYch0eooS34XAnVIMX/s640/Chandertal-16.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The spellbinding mountains filled with aroma of fresh air has to be only experienced and cannot be explained.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZkDXi71X6Fz6_M4kHOgmLgSKb-XAaLuAn-kAo91-YDEBOi52b-9R63Z2zs7O6TS05AjONVwJcbSngh0Dw43cuMr0s50vRKLtVobdUd5Ml5Yg9LCcdH3I-p2MlE1gGONQWYHvh1s1_FgZ/s1600/Chandratal---15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZkDXi71X6Fz6_M4kHOgmLgSKb-XAaLuAn-kAo91-YDEBOi52b-9R63Z2zs7O6TS05AjONVwJcbSngh0Dw43cuMr0s50vRKLtVobdUd5Ml5Yg9LCcdH3I-p2MlE1gGONQWYHvh1s1_FgZ/s640/Chandratal---15.jpg" width="478" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Spiti river is seen flowing through the garden of Edens. Nature has its own version of Holi is what we felt after passing through such an amazing terrain.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihNOqthx0PSiz-AbuQXao4Aw7X5OcR3zg4fRlnXNxRKstC207eeyC2QnV4dgblZLTnrRKP-NwXYrnarOoruCDMLgPQoGMpzzvMqqZLUqd9eh2nwWLbXVdF9w5tmzlrHfDAyU501NGWwGQ/s1600/Chandertal-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihNOqthx0PSiz-AbuQXao4Aw7X5OcR3zg4fRlnXNxRKstC207eeyC2QnV4dgblZLTnrRKP-NwXYrnarOoruCDMLgPQoGMpzzvMqqZLUqd9eh2nwWLbXVdF9w5tmzlrHfDAyU501NGWwGQ/s640/Chandertal-17.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By afternoon, we reached another small town called Losar which is enroute to Kaza. Losar has many small dhabas and homestays which serves you with basic needs.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKETPTj1UeoFiUJbwbPYVd9N-ZuozbO0tsWuojcrwJsJm_hX0UQvKORBkdPH3YupN8plxAFusSgPn-85aXwCnign-IsfDaQN0Vg7WmIaEozvgaufBoemGaeAXEBWUZVWfl2tuVSvq18fPI/s1600/Chandertal-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKETPTj1UeoFiUJbwbPYVd9N-ZuozbO0tsWuojcrwJsJm_hX0UQvKORBkdPH3YupN8plxAFusSgPn-85aXwCnign-IsfDaQN0Vg7WmIaEozvgaufBoemGaeAXEBWUZVWfl2tuVSvq18fPI/s640/Chandertal-18.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Losar is a small village in the Lahaul and Spiti District of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Spiti Valley is located very close to the Indo-Chinese border and is believed to be the last mountain range before one reaches China through India. Spiti Valley is an extension of Ladakh and is a cold desert region. Losar is situated at an altitude of 13,400 feet above sea level.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW4kcCHukAcaXZb0Ljq82M1YL-8GlX90hgFGBulnXN8pDoWsjuBLVNj4h0pkg9XnmUkpbMReOPcXQPhsZu15fbsWJNRxq7I93WxUofEyszmUIcuWEpWULFOWY-vA5Gf_N_EZgh5MJ7wyjD/s1600/Chandertal-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW4kcCHukAcaXZb0Ljq82M1YL-8GlX90hgFGBulnXN8pDoWsjuBLVNj4h0pkg9XnmUkpbMReOPcXQPhsZu15fbsWJNRxq7I93WxUofEyszmUIcuWEpWULFOWY-vA5Gf_N_EZgh5MJ7wyjD/s640/Chandertal-19.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The road leading to Losar has breathtaking beauty with magnificent views and different coloured mountains with waterfalls emerging through them. On any given day the weather is generally very windy and pleasant owing to its high altitude.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Losar is relatively unexplored, due to its remoteness and inaccessibility. Very few travellers spend the night at Losar, most stop for a meal and proceed to Chandra Tal Lake or the district headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti, Kaza nearby for a night halt.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGxwB-3Oh_K_JnJFCJmnFaAlmgb3ZGD0TyEFg7o-75-bwhslvoXuj50fciAfEM1ys3wNu0ySpQfX9-_FpV9IZ7rGITwmML8lm5M2uByHNECCiJ-jhFQB2BBbu0f-waddr-IgkWMuO3eJb/s1600/Chandratal--16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGxwB-3Oh_K_JnJFCJmnFaAlmgb3ZGD0TyEFg7o-75-bwhslvoXuj50fciAfEM1ys3wNu0ySpQfX9-_FpV9IZ7rGITwmML8lm5M2uByHNECCiJ-jhFQB2BBbu0f-waddr-IgkWMuO3eJb/s640/Chandratal--16.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Losar has very few accommodation and food options. The village houses have over the time been converted to home stays and guest houses to meet the needs of the travellers. The accommodation options are generally very basic with just a bed and bathroom. The food options are also generally very basic consisting of Chowmein, momo, dal, rice, chapati and vegetables.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn6fUbDnMlmsOVYaYhBwqWNEz4j1QnyHzU0pgfMq6k9H9a0xp3DXWZo7tEKDKqX7OnyedbsokC1VZPnypow2pALlbcTLX1eOwOI0-QF_eLJrt_aNIjunmt_aDdWlQgcrlWKB2VDV2Tip1O/s1600/Chandratal-landscape-9.-ajpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn6fUbDnMlmsOVYaYhBwqWNEz4j1QnyHzU0pgfMq6k9H9a0xp3DXWZo7tEKDKqX7OnyedbsokC1VZPnypow2pALlbcTLX1eOwOI0-QF_eLJrt_aNIjunmt_aDdWlQgcrlWKB2VDV2Tip1O/s640/Chandratal-landscape-9.-ajpg.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The village is nestled in the centre bordered with mountains on all sides. The houses are generally made of mud and have prayer flags surrounding it. The prayer flags symbolise the Buddhist religion which is the main belief in the village.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg5JZA0heTUvUA_yHU7dCRflY2oOabm1CK1bfx2btRV4vq98n1N9k0IEW841L2GTHMGfMbADuzUYpLnSp_oI286f9sjp5yyNYKg4UgyfwzGMvX8FZaaKSFxgmO_keq3q80HTpezdwClFms/s1600/Landscape-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg5JZA0heTUvUA_yHU7dCRflY2oOabm1CK1bfx2btRV4vq98n1N9k0IEW841L2GTHMGfMbADuzUYpLnSp_oI286f9sjp5yyNYKg4UgyfwzGMvX8FZaaKSFxgmO_keq3q80HTpezdwClFms/s640/Landscape-1.jpg" width="450" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To reach Losar one can either go via the Kunzum Pass which is a high altitude pass. Kunzum is considered to be one of the most treacherous passes in the world. One can also access the village via Kinnaur. The Kunzum pass is generally shut for most part of the year and can be accessed only during the summer months of mid-July to mid-September. Kinnaur is fairly open for most part of the year other than during winters when the temperature is sub zero.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3piO4STM8dhYN-gKNdYcdni2nYa0ru8F-pm7h48kVMeNAZn4Lc4sQUdI4StHh7PxnzU5CqcAdBZ3KsvbBFN0_eGVczvgrnS3RpmeKLFCKTCvXjXtCoqAGOJsu3tNvgXLPrJuDmJewqYUU/s1600/Landscape-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3piO4STM8dhYN-gKNdYcdni2nYa0ru8F-pm7h48kVMeNAZn4Lc4sQUdI4StHh7PxnzU5CqcAdBZ3KsvbBFN0_eGVczvgrnS3RpmeKLFCKTCvXjXtCoqAGOJsu3tNvgXLPrJuDmJewqYUU/s640/Landscape-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The best time to visit Losar is from July to September when the road conditions are fairly better than most other months. To reach Losar one can either hire a private vehicle from Manali via Kunzum pass or via Kinnaur. One can also hire a private vehicle from Kaza which is 56 km. Although while traveling to Losar one must always do a prior check on the roads condition and also make sure to acclimatize properly to avoid falling sick. Considering there are no major medical facilities available at Losar the nearest hospital is situated at Kaza</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fP4PHC8qzuR4A7_0Dxa4wUyDIRn5fQVEm2L0bNxd_cgJEExozswTPseO_OhLDcrti1zYsLwLThAAfzwMa2tkPOm25tdn25PcAbfYlaRzwF-ugoCIaRJZHwZT4lNj5bakjw-zL8As_-wW/s1600/losar-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fP4PHC8qzuR4A7_0Dxa4wUyDIRn5fQVEm2L0bNxd_cgJEExozswTPseO_OhLDcrti1zYsLwLThAAfzwMa2tkPOm25tdn25PcAbfYlaRzwF-ugoCIaRJZHwZT4lNj5bakjw-zL8As_-wW/s640/losar-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The main occupation of the villagers is farming and animal husbandry but with the increase in the number of travellers each year tourism is on the rise.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The locals are also very welcoming towards the tourists. Losar is considered to be coldest place in Spiti valley and a night stay is sufficient to explore the village.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQcrEYHbldMAV09evWnR7LCaqO82OLgybLm-obcG93IjHUI_LQYAesGXXc9eN0WSFcxhfsg5wDtNWnnS2yKaD_C0B4plaCU3AZv9OhQ5QZb_c6zPgL55kVA7BT28KClHWB4MhVaLIaQw8/s1600/losar-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQcrEYHbldMAV09evWnR7LCaqO82OLgybLm-obcG93IjHUI_LQYAesGXXc9eN0WSFcxhfsg5wDtNWnnS2yKaD_C0B4plaCU3AZv9OhQ5QZb_c6zPgL55kVA7BT28KClHWB4MhVaLIaQw8/s640/losar-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Within the village there is also a monastery which is decorated with paintings on its walls and prayer wheels around it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpeQ7xrpPBZehQqoFz2Yah9kthzbqUBXeJxb6dbf1BuPNRLXrCK74if5NhahZt7hRYhuhGKd7vfnjSpsYxXLAQH_7m-KBoDErcTOsYCZTCOSKRltQM0F-1LJbOhryk9TXA2FsNDpWhyTHd/s1600/losar-monastery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpeQ7xrpPBZehQqoFz2Yah9kthzbqUBXeJxb6dbf1BuPNRLXrCK74if5NhahZt7hRYhuhGKd7vfnjSpsYxXLAQH_7m-KBoDErcTOsYCZTCOSKRltQM0F-1LJbOhryk9TXA2FsNDpWhyTHd/s640/losar-monastery.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Himachal Pradesh government runs bus services from Manali to Kaza. The bus runs only once daily and halts at Losar while plying to Kaza. Bus booking has to be done much earlier, else the seats are not guaranteed (as there is only one bus per day)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We finally reached the main town of Kaza by 2.00 PM. Kaza is the district head quarters of Lahaul and Spiti valley district.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kaza was more beautiful than I thought. It had green pastures , schools , monasteries , bridges and valleys. A small town with vibrant culture and hospitable people.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We checked in to the hotel called "Spiti Valley" which was run by Mr. Tanzin. It was a decent accommodation with pretty good food and WiFi facilities.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The evening was spent on the banks of the Spiti river by watching the sun go down. The sunset was one of the best that I had seen in my life.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33ceuWmwx2pNci6a-GECDQq6l4nfEEtA3PfRY44QwEp5LiPQqSH-wwugIRNg1MGMsLD48c_ruS7-at0yMc7E_bya4AkOsQQYPkgv6POzefTuzkvuukEmzB6to08AQ8oOlvF0i_peCDAsa/s1600/spiti-sunset-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33ceuWmwx2pNci6a-GECDQq6l4nfEEtA3PfRY44QwEp5LiPQqSH-wwugIRNg1MGMsLD48c_ruS7-at0yMc7E_bya4AkOsQQYPkgv6POzefTuzkvuukEmzB6to08AQ8oOlvF0i_peCDAsa/s640/spiti-sunset-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We then roamed around the Kaza bazaar to check on souvenirs specific to the region and retired for the day.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b style="color: #6aa84f;"><u>Useful information / Tips to the travelers :</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. There are many hotels which provide you with accommodation at Kaza</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Number of eateries are also on the higher side. You get to eat Indian , Chinese and other continental dishes.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Schools , hospitals, government offices , markets , Gompas , monastery and Petrol/Diesel stations are available here.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. The best time to visit Kaza is from June to September. However, you can visit any time of the year.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. Only one government bus runs per day from Manali to Kaza.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. Mobile signals are very weak, and only BSNL works</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">7. Electricity is very scarce , so charge your batteries when available.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">8. Manali to Kaza route will be closed in Winters. However, Kaza can be reached by the Kinnaur route from Shimla even in winters.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thanks for viewing</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBA-CFJcoIS8IBB3ipSOGZX1dRhljJDOmOFPhofK6bhQgJ2yuICLDBYaeAq8ye38n095OrplMyyw1K_ygv7EIkd5WeBQFnOcxw9ciBAzmbxfEf8WLXr4IB-HkHrDzykau-IYomcbYfVFI_/s1600/leftarrows.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>To know more about the life and culture of Spiti valley, click on the link below!!</i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-moon.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpAoVoo0rPwLVABVCZv_t-pDbdBBXNNPy-dEtoh5UN2MzSB8-1FbM5CDTUfKKijm_sNswleEDxp0gGZagauTNkACUPZ2B2BSVGM-iU6Aw7QkZ_x7faA5ZUWO-HqHuoIw1y8vmRPsP6yLs/s1600/left.JPG" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-moon.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #f1c232;"> </span><span style="color: orange;">Chandertal</span></a></i></span></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-moon.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 2)</span></a></i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-kaza-and-beyond.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOHTGokRDB-ZKEnhJmesZdGGiHZMiFRa7ihiJIoLUmF5YoDSK8buKRnkFA6CEqqwm_0FCkIddg0zRWECAL3RCBBJ6y8bHt1y9-hlTcRy5fP47g58BNPadKn-6F5v1mhEDBI3k3JA27Ucv/s1600/right.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-kaza-and-beyond.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Kaza and beyond</span></a></i></span></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-kaza-and-beyond.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 4)</span></a></i></span></b></td></tr>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-841005913849828602016-10-31T18:32:00.000+05:302016-10-31T18:34:35.834+05:30Spectacular Spiti : Journey to the Moon shaped lake - Chandertal<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Day 3 - Aug 7th , 2016</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We checked off from the hotel by 6.00 AM , and hit the main road in no time. The mighty Beas was flowing to our left until Rohtang pass. A small Chai break at a nearby village called Kothi was a energy booster for us. As and when the altitude gained , the sleeves started to come down and as we neared Rohtang, we dressed in layers.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The road until Rohtang pass is a curvy ghat section road that takes you through thick virgin forests with beautiful landscapes. The clouds and sun started to play hide and seek with us, which made our visibility less for most of the time.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUXzetyM77J8kqg5Wbs8S8PYzxdVgBJyVxLO3RsNN2tzn7THBtXpw0hwDmQ27WEnBTD7UH7AID9hPN7sMQHbH0whqqRyEFPztuTVEZ4_D8wx5DgdnodNIdeUBdlm9w4oxI_uSBuiL2Pogx/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUXzetyM77J8kqg5Wbs8S8PYzxdVgBJyVxLO3RsNN2tzn7THBtXpw0hwDmQ27WEnBTD7UH7AID9hPN7sMQHbH0whqqRyEFPztuTVEZ4_D8wx5DgdnodNIdeUBdlm9w4oxI_uSBuiL2Pogx/s640/9.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By 8.00 AM, we were near Rohtang pass. This place is a famous pit stop for people going towards Ladakh or Spiti region.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rohtang Pass, is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, around 51 km from Manali. It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh, India.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEwzzO5STveQjWgxEMFg-YVqsGXQcHmRFeod0Tusw5sLzuuKBv8GiLnrQZM7Dqfpbyitnm5SabeUhbX3212v2qMqqHptSvCRKTgClmfr4nbBQFGd95SZj4vAwjSzjH-j5tXprPb1enz7e/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEwzzO5STveQjWgxEMFg-YVqsGXQcHmRFeod0Tusw5sLzuuKBv8GiLnrQZM7Dqfpbyitnm5SabeUhbX3212v2qMqqHptSvCRKTgClmfr4nbBQFGd95SZj4vAwjSzjH-j5tXprPb1enz7e/s640/10.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4N1q16cnS84AQ0CbTd0iNXkghm2Y9G8fdEtsd77YsJpDEPHttRTGVnDZ9xPOL0aJNzbRgPO7mopdmC9wEglzG3Dzr8haXjmCdjxuYn5YFlaVQESnTX6FY_ECQBqzKnJWsPRAZ5aAFcSyS/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4N1q16cnS84AQ0CbTd0iNXkghm2Y9G8fdEtsd77YsJpDEPHttRTGVnDZ9xPOL0aJNzbRgPO7mopdmC9wEglzG3Dzr8haXjmCdjxuYn5YFlaVQESnTX6FY_ECQBqzKnJWsPRAZ5aAFcSyS/s640/11.jpg" width="488" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When you are driving through these high altitude roads, do not miss to see the slogans and information by BRO. It is very humorous and informative.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This place is truly a gateway to the Himalayan odyssey. You can see large number of tourists until this point, and only travelers go beyond. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(note the difference between tourists and travelers)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvZyyrDDuhTZzh9dk_vTvnMf42Ia8_f0DWl3bPxeeCajCO_tcIJMWsMeyht9QeA3X4kt9JNcEW0D0OlSgvqAkmU2nh6ZLUEHC5eVwoWCqMfpXJa5-CCNPkNtad9sMbDXqDtg-Sl8A15qGP/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvZyyrDDuhTZzh9dk_vTvnMf42Ia8_f0DWl3bPxeeCajCO_tcIJMWsMeyht9QeA3X4kt9JNcEW0D0OlSgvqAkmU2nh6ZLUEHC5eVwoWCqMfpXJa5-CCNPkNtad9sMbDXqDtg-Sl8A15qGP/s640/12.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Heavy lorries and trucks ply on this route frequently. The skills of these drivers are truly exceptional, and I was really amazed by that.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Rv5KKJzCYBEM0PXiOXFzIF-Nh1tJiefMQQNwfLzz63L3vlLFD5YzDj0HDZIEIpygTyD0DyxMLeX7w4Tde9zaww5oSj0eCa3fqgoBtgZNFZeg91s9evGvM-mtbZXJsbES3eiTznBR0ux4/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Rv5KKJzCYBEM0PXiOXFzIF-Nh1tJiefMQQNwfLzz63L3vlLFD5YzDj0HDZIEIpygTyD0DyxMLeX7w4Tde9zaww5oSj0eCa3fqgoBtgZNFZeg91s9evGvM-mtbZXJsbES3eiTznBR0ux4/s640/13.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The weather started to clear post Rohtang pass, which was a sigh of relief for us.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHJLfsTWuHKZQNVJ3GP1331znOdPOG68mczyFPaflwuqxdTDhyphenhyphenjqZdY_GKhX2v3xwTGzA4cbHb69xHotlYBT4UaYtTHUQu2YE7yyZXcBkOFo7oryd3vPaCN5MRmed_uJmMki5BWnkR89V/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHJLfsTWuHKZQNVJ3GP1331znOdPOG68mczyFPaflwuqxdTDhyphenhyphenjqZdY_GKhX2v3xwTGzA4cbHb69xHotlYBT4UaYtTHUQu2YE7yyZXcBkOFo7oryd3vPaCN5MRmed_uJmMki5BWnkR89V/s640/14.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Each and every turn made us closer to the destination and our minds were eagerly waiting to see the snow peaks.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The roads were really bad, as it was completely filled with small rocks and streams that we had to brave upon.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim8b2lPeyREeuZb0IcXSX46dbDAYsGjJgCqkdtfFTx9KA2ZxDs4Yqt1c8ugQuBNVQ8s0yXcINnuvP_pfsFDtwrE5gPEfqf9o2ijSKrD8YzdCuPZk9ouVMgi8RukTNaNd0Sf0nEXLbIJPqQ/s1600/Chandertal-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim8b2lPeyREeuZb0IcXSX46dbDAYsGjJgCqkdtfFTx9KA2ZxDs4Yqt1c8ugQuBNVQ8s0yXcINnuvP_pfsFDtwrE5gPEfqf9o2ijSKrD8YzdCuPZk9ouVMgi8RukTNaNd0Sf0nEXLbIJPqQ/s640/Chandertal-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7sLkCib6EiFgG3rXJaCOoTRT9j_47xV0Py_GrKm35vLqlU0DbQPmPjqZz8vQNOFGiXQMlrqCXlxv7JTnE93SVs8mMMoyQX9rdksp85IlMDk8CdcRTcADasmZk6pPW62Jk9kpyDWPAmdee/s1600/Chandertal-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7sLkCib6EiFgG3rXJaCOoTRT9j_47xV0Py_GrKm35vLqlU0DbQPmPjqZz8vQNOFGiXQMlrqCXlxv7JTnE93SVs8mMMoyQX9rdksp85IlMDk8CdcRTcADasmZk6pPW62Jk9kpyDWPAmdee/s640/Chandertal-4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsWdZe7JLmKNzsR5mDF9Q2WpIAnByNcNB8Rr7ScaabBaqEd7w4ASGMpoxFWjpMCQIOaEP_6d_fhjVwrssMGHqvv16ZXc4VlqWR4OIgFAgbDJg2O7IQ0Of5J4R4z-4OYGfJxGR5i-SY7-R/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsWdZe7JLmKNzsR5mDF9Q2WpIAnByNcNB8Rr7ScaabBaqEd7w4ASGMpoxFWjpMCQIOaEP_6d_fhjVwrssMGHqvv16ZXc4VlqWR4OIgFAgbDJg2O7IQ0Of5J4R4z-4OYGfJxGR5i-SY7-R/s640/15.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A beautiful waterfalls that was seen enroute. They are the main feeders to the Chenab river, that can be seen down in the valley while moving towards Chandertal.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz6EvybV4cQ-GwHUpLxxDqMfS-WMsCIy3sMp-GvMOcBxGIF47jkMhp8MoGGOiDp12-mK7VDN73RcWbQSdAtixZd43SfmP_ZyocDy-R1MnnqeEGzAJ2mpfTDiulW96dy0OnqyfsExz9Oodg/s1600/Chandertal-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz6EvybV4cQ-GwHUpLxxDqMfS-WMsCIy3sMp-GvMOcBxGIF47jkMhp8MoGGOiDp12-mK7VDN73RcWbQSdAtixZd43SfmP_ZyocDy-R1MnnqeEGzAJ2mpfTDiulW96dy0OnqyfsExz9Oodg/s640/Chandertal-3.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii75RslAgv0trlwyVljH2ei4gh1OluuQ7CGbPzazp7uNiOykfkAKH126iukJMqZ1cEinIqSVqk8DnCsr4IhjlRs4edNTUOrfe79Zn1KQeAxgkwlGwSb4adN4Emreh_jUwfS1MBZGb2CJ8-/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii75RslAgv0trlwyVljH2ei4gh1OluuQ7CGbPzazp7uNiOykfkAKH126iukJMqZ1cEinIqSVqk8DnCsr4IhjlRs4edNTUOrfe79Zn1KQeAxgkwlGwSb4adN4Emreh_jUwfS1MBZGb2CJ8-/s640/16.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We then crossed a small village called Chatru which houses just a couple of tents. This place is a very good pit stop for refreshment breaks.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4GgT285VCM3EIR42Lq8VA1wKhBqNDDi2EghEvyHM4a87jce6tDZvX1hyNGYgMxq5e-k16VYuw02FuRdRt2ZiY-zyaI4iYh-1HIaRm2r1DR5bMa_l7M9BQiKIdalIFwNHuq2_cPJrJ-K8r/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4GgT285VCM3EIR42Lq8VA1wKhBqNDDi2EghEvyHM4a87jce6tDZvX1hyNGYgMxq5e-k16VYuw02FuRdRt2ZiY-zyaI4iYh-1HIaRm2r1DR5bMa_l7M9BQiKIdalIFwNHuq2_cPJrJ-K8r/s640/17.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A cup of hot Maggi noodles was all that was needed to complement the weather. Maggi is your best friend in the mountains.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyw5XDwDph20j5rmqS4jE8Kd5MfWMve5QylYHWi54jscvEfWvpZtsBGkObBUMOX6VhrUEHgI7OY0qlk4OPnt5MpGeDaWOSm7aSNhYZxEvCKzk4yYQxYAlGucTTaQiP3KhSTb0V0Ns1RrnB/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyw5XDwDph20j5rmqS4jE8Kd5MfWMve5QylYHWi54jscvEfWvpZtsBGkObBUMOX6VhrUEHgI7OY0qlk4OPnt5MpGeDaWOSm7aSNhYZxEvCKzk4yYQxYAlGucTTaQiP3KhSTb0V0Ns1RrnB/s640/21.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enroute Chnadertal, we need to cross many mountain ranges and small villages. The views are extremely colorful and breath taking.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC2fTio0SnmlGR8Cr4tqDbVQ8a1oian4GWHEH-mT4VzcTBvtcG5AgnDAYyBHLSijrMFprX-whAOdZYS-qhuDHnFkMXhIkbYv8YttD-kB6sz8hqZ9v9ZI8CgQsagt2qnjIUwOpqgQ1aAjBz/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC2fTio0SnmlGR8Cr4tqDbVQ8a1oian4GWHEH-mT4VzcTBvtcG5AgnDAYyBHLSijrMFprX-whAOdZYS-qhuDHnFkMXhIkbYv8YttD-kB6sz8hqZ9v9ZI8CgQsagt2qnjIUwOpqgQ1aAjBz/s640/18.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For every few metres, you tend to stop the vehicle and click photos.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjiPnUhjYy5b4sbFOPdBCW79GR8f3jYugfs4vxGH1YHfS0k9Cw4lW-jFHeNWsOAZ29wJrz23fqgKuo9e-EEj8qkvQHVxKtPFAyuGeDk8ucQzQTPhwrdoLy3y1zlocltf1phP9OmmorRZ6/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjiPnUhjYy5b4sbFOPdBCW79GR8f3jYugfs4vxGH1YHfS0k9Cw4lW-jFHeNWsOAZ29wJrz23fqgKuo9e-EEj8qkvQHVxKtPFAyuGeDk8ucQzQTPhwrdoLy3y1zlocltf1phP9OmmorRZ6/s640/19.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We met many riders who rode all the way from Delhi , Chandigarh and some from Manali as well.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXRXr2LPIP9QnWhaHOvYFP8PpF-e-NmKDvPyxTE7XMGX27sY48h3Ac_ni7gkBk6rMQOk-LHG-UgtJ1p5gknL7gvOA96ln4EyuhufMSR448JhxMhCg4GFXoJBb9ZxzY_Q1kRdaLerW5fjx/s640/20.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just an idea on how the road conditions are, while travelling in the Spiti valley.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXRXr2LPIP9QnWhaHOvYFP8PpF-e-NmKDvPyxTE7XMGX27sY48h3Ac_ni7gkBk6rMQOk-LHG-UgtJ1p5gknL7gvOA96ln4EyuhufMSR448JhxMhCg4GFXoJBb9ZxzY_Q1kRdaLerW5fjx/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I met a group of riders who were from Bangalore. It seems they had shipped their bikes from Bangalore and started their journey from Chandigarh.I was really happy to see "Karnataka" registration vehicles high up in the mountain valleys.</span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UUm0k02RgTIj9zF-QaIgvZVcjxG7xd_qd8Xi3iyvD5J8HNdvNEsYVpioq3bYYTL2dCYsNJ-1CoK28IXOTVzBiWcAjqo-qRwckxpuOdfMyExLn_M3qctIMjQ79A_uEYMT0LEng1Ai197I/s640/ARJ_1427-2-Edit.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">A curious onlooker who stood wondering on what I was doing with my camera.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UUm0k02RgTIj9zF-QaIgvZVcjxG7xd_qd8Xi3iyvD5J8HNdvNEsYVpioq3bYYTL2dCYsNJ-1CoK28IXOTVzBiWcAjqo-qRwckxpuOdfMyExLn_M3qctIMjQ79A_uEYMT0LEng1Ai197I/s1600/ARJ_1427-2-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5ora4YSFrjgqqShSBi1yu5By9JVyLRCGPxMok7CQg3z9ZRs-q8dVxtgHPU3jGwuQv0z32t2wEmlqgrQZFgJt2Ef7-o5OdWKnidGcD6HwQuQcwSvbYlK79SMkPqUqWXcKYUccP0wOLb6i/s640/ARJ_1591.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;">Venki shooting the arid landscape at Batal.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5ora4YSFrjgqqShSBi1yu5By9JVyLRCGPxMok7CQg3z9ZRs-q8dVxtgHPU3jGwuQv0z32t2wEmlqgrQZFgJt2Ef7-o5OdWKnidGcD6HwQuQcwSvbYlK79SMkPqUqWXcKYUccP0wOLb6i/s1600/ARJ_1591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Batal is also a very small village which houses a small tent owned by an elderly couple. The tea and food they prepared were really delicious. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpa-UR9zK_l27MrmtkV1vnZDO6HVAH4GRlf-2IuLGPxfBoMh2FI2XXC0BpdJQElTOqfQq1N7S4pzx7bpRRG3GIBWBGnFrtsr_NvtJLILzDoXz0SlGasxuqsun9V1uuNezNWoSArDjIOj3/s1600/Chandertal-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpa-UR9zK_l27MrmtkV1vnZDO6HVAH4GRlf-2IuLGPxfBoMh2FI2XXC0BpdJQElTOqfQq1N7S4pzx7bpRRG3GIBWBGnFrtsr_NvtJLILzDoXz0SlGasxuqsun9V1uuNezNWoSArDjIOj3/s640/Chandertal-5.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Landscape started to change every now and then. So did the colors , vibrance and the lighting of the place.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcYL8j5ORn0A5nabRSjWrclIQvjoYPEF_DWPNT7cASUesPgow8B-HoE971c24at7-KpGYbV-acgMCxq8rlwzrBav2a4sBfYPWsOMAeZuuFwKh4nAPRylb4QN6nGTZmweyKU8jeJPVsS9Q/s1600/Chandertal-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcYL8j5ORn0A5nabRSjWrclIQvjoYPEF_DWPNT7cASUesPgow8B-HoE971c24at7-KpGYbV-acgMCxq8rlwzrBav2a4sBfYPWsOMAeZuuFwKh4nAPRylb4QN6nGTZmweyKU8jeJPVsS9Q/s640/Chandertal-6.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcTkKu7nrVtfdORBvQ4RZZp6_Ki9dOpI1SI8OblRfS9mY2RvXbggTUVS_CyHhdowwbbDSHya83LiZrio59Pq9kgEMlsG9mVxMLMteIAFqenQkxc9vFpnec2IR4-plyzOzY9epqhqMzKnJf/s1600/Chandertal-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcTkKu7nrVtfdORBvQ4RZZp6_Ki9dOpI1SI8OblRfS9mY2RvXbggTUVS_CyHhdowwbbDSHya83LiZrio59Pq9kgEMlsG9mVxMLMteIAFqenQkxc9vFpnec2IR4-plyzOzY9epqhqMzKnJf/s640/Chandertal-8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A panorama comprising of almost 7-8 images. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYUf0ljC6ye8vs7Mwca1mzTfNhpWF_0gXvIltEnE2vTiAarvc0SRMuUCmnHtWk_zvjKwoj3t4EYb336WkIixeGWE009su5bY0_RdeXT9LDAI4MziopNg39f9CdnAxN8BvdyLjB3uJjO1-/s1600/Chandertal-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYUf0ljC6ye8vs7Mwca1mzTfNhpWF_0gXvIltEnE2vTiAarvc0SRMuUCmnHtWk_zvjKwoj3t4EYb336WkIixeGWE009su5bY0_RdeXT9LDAI4MziopNg39f9CdnAxN8BvdyLjB3uJjO1-/s640/Chandertal-7.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The colors of the valley are truly amazing . What you are seeing in the above image is one single mountain which had different color shades.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8vAoUL99m8y96gQ1f5iFYwQSTuhPa_oAGzluIgNIQj3GcTkjt-r_Svt-Q0-Hc3pG2wGyHMx86xuloRSpcd1elkDeei66X8ySTNngb3pQijkMYAMDWwNuGNovcGgF9qST0wMcC3LVPEzZ/s1600/Chandertal-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8vAoUL99m8y96gQ1f5iFYwQSTuhPa_oAGzluIgNIQj3GcTkjt-r_Svt-Q0-Hc3pG2wGyHMx86xuloRSpcd1elkDeei66X8ySTNngb3pQijkMYAMDWwNuGNovcGgF9qST0wMcC3LVPEzZ/s640/Chandertal-9.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The monsoon clouds were fast approaching and that added drama in the sky. The Chandra river is seen all along the way while driving towards Chandertal.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiP57sMGogJGsuQV33CIvs6gzRWWPnD_o9SLnfx1KvWHueZ5WgTazEWk_F3EVZZH9RGioOUqHFFziYtUNDohCl2G2NMoAtNUt3OCL2LXQMJ2iG1Pxt7ZfbZKOdgC_Q-VuQRyMEt2bM1-m/s1600/Chandertal-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiP57sMGogJGsuQV33CIvs6gzRWWPnD_o9SLnfx1KvWHueZ5WgTazEWk_F3EVZZH9RGioOUqHFFziYtUNDohCl2G2NMoAtNUt3OCL2LXQMJ2iG1Pxt7ZfbZKOdgC_Q-VuQRyMEt2bM1-m/s640/Chandertal-21.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached the base of Chandertal by 2.00 PM. The tents were seen from quite a distance, and we were really excited to see our new homes.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjXtKRHo4LwboiFZvDt5baOhSXUdNUrrbApsl9IYR1viQA2Fz6ZLxjCESVuOdfh2wvoi84r8S5FSkNgTGIiGMNfB_yRmtMQdBQthOTSc8uZTfwfhlcC8JIat4epdH_4SgatBbNobhZLhJ/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjXtKRHo4LwboiFZvDt5baOhSXUdNUrrbApsl9IYR1viQA2Fz6ZLxjCESVuOdfh2wvoi84r8S5FSkNgTGIiGMNfB_yRmtMQdBQthOTSc8uZTfwfhlcC8JIat4epdH_4SgatBbNobhZLhJ/s640/22.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1Pve8rOA-G1Jt0V5-HeiIkNqphCVLLrF2p0uSyu3tX5QEB8eaSS-W44pQqWTv7VYUoVPoT0l0njdsZVQWjvcgwzqgagXW75Xtv9lyVygI0wXpMhMW6b3l6VWSf30gpWDrsFPS7pX4Oe0/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1Pve8rOA-G1Jt0V5-HeiIkNqphCVLLrF2p0uSyu3tX5QEB8eaSS-W44pQqWTv7VYUoVPoT0l0njdsZVQWjvcgwzqgagXW75Xtv9lyVygI0wXpMhMW6b3l6VWSf30gpWDrsFPS7pX4Oe0/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The tents at Chandertal were priced differently, based on the number of person occupancy and the luxury provided in there. An average two bed tent was rented for around Rs. 3200, which also had a private bathroom.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This price included dinner and breakfast(for the next day) as well.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After searching and negotiating among many tent owners, we finally settled on one from Mr. Tanzin. This was a single 6 bed tent which was being offered for Rs.3600 for the whole tent along with food. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The lunch was not a part of the package, so it was served for an extra payment.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our lunch was Maggi, while some others from our group savored the lunch which was prepared by some shepherds.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By around 4 PM we set off to see the majestic crescent shaped emerald lake. It was a small walk of around 3-4 kms from the basecamp.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqd9DfGH5ITXqnWudutLVuRkgmyZuzc5wdGlQB5d_JYGOmhYlb3UytXO8jc4nzz1fVk3ESmKYtnwJACD-rQW5evg0Pym5wdRKpyMhUuykQk1qNbtngwnHP-gB47Alr1n7H7SPRkFtOMtzK/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqd9DfGH5ITXqnWudutLVuRkgmyZuzc5wdGlQB5d_JYGOmhYlb3UytXO8jc4nzz1fVk3ESmKYtnwJACD-rQW5evg0Pym5wdRKpyMhUuykQk1qNbtngwnHP-gB47Alr1n7H7SPRkFtOMtzK/s640/23.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Chandra Tal (meaning the Lake of the Moon), or Chander Tal is situated in the Spiti part of the Lahul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh (India).The name of the lake originates from its crescent shape. It is situated at an altitude of about 4,300 metres (14,100 ft) in the Himalayas. The mountains overlook the lake on one side, and a magnificent valley presents a view on the other. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5K1mQ6IqxnSctD5qjvsuiMelr_NwkoaGvRG-v0H7Yu2x-LalT_SHApoPJnvClh0R4XIWTIreSHKHyeArvxqbMuWoxygniiARLEjQp_pdxj6lbe55mXsXoPRtD1zrQswqStpXx5_IlHgd6/s1600/25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5K1mQ6IqxnSctD5qjvsuiMelr_NwkoaGvRG-v0H7Yu2x-LalT_SHApoPJnvClh0R4XIWTIreSHKHyeArvxqbMuWoxygniiARLEjQp_pdxj6lbe55mXsXoPRtD1zrQswqStpXx5_IlHgd6/s640/25.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The team</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Chandra Taal is a popular destination for trekkers and campers. The lake is accessible on foot from Batal as well as from Kunzum Pass from late May to early October. There is also a motorable road from Batal which is 14 km (8.7 mi) away from Chandra Taal.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEharnLNWOwOLaez4GaIQwAQNBWg1p4qGaiyoj6yClGuWLoA5Cmv5Dyg-0D5qevXoxC3DzZdPlMU2R4LlCLbKqKH6-xi_3VsuKJ4JJoN7ddoTKpdKzPpmskfmp9YvJB0JdfC1zOSlxnyuiQ4/s1600/bhargi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEharnLNWOwOLaez4GaIQwAQNBWg1p4qGaiyoj6yClGuWLoA5Cmv5Dyg-0D5qevXoxC3DzZdPlMU2R4LlCLbKqKH6-xi_3VsuKJ4JJoN7ddoTKpdKzPpmskfmp9YvJB0JdfC1zOSlxnyuiQ4/s640/bhargi.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bhargav enjoying the view</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Vast meadows on the banks of the lake are the camping sites. During springtime, these meadows are carpeted with hundreds of kinds of wildflowers.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZcrX3Of3Kf5GVEUz0mZ2JLpK2yJWZo5e6lK7_yL7TvzFNJWTvdYYtJ3vjv0Xvh_r1INXczkbvjmSJBg149eZsNRnPVjWVIH45Ipuxh0_lY59B74yIpwIJO2LZbDfDsRq-NUqX0VoIjFl/s1600/Chandertal-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZcrX3Of3Kf5GVEUz0mZ2JLpK2yJWZo5e6lK7_yL7TvzFNJWTvdYYtJ3vjv0Xvh_r1INXczkbvjmSJBg149eZsNRnPVjWVIH45Ipuxh0_lY59B74yIpwIJO2LZbDfDsRq-NUqX0VoIjFl/s640/Chandertal-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The lake is situated on the Samudra Tapu plateau, which overlooks the Chandra River.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlVkUYVJPK9m2nTCDLdkWJv4l2JCCPHRtut46cNMGRudChwZf3AfTa_FdLi5X9ajKBFQetRUK-HR28qN3nrPWFtSEWfdAq74kRxirJIArSO0b3f2q7gLmYIHzY8eg6_T1E_J82lhSXxGK/s1600/Chandertal-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlVkUYVJPK9m2nTCDLdkWJv4l2JCCPHRtut46cNMGRudChwZf3AfTa_FdLi5X9ajKBFQetRUK-HR28qN3nrPWFtSEWfdAq74kRxirJIArSO0b3f2q7gLmYIHzY8eg6_T1E_J82lhSXxGK/s640/Chandertal-11.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The lake is one among the two high-altitude wetlands of India which have been designated as Ramsar sites.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MWvIz4ql5aijra0rFWpUYruWTc9wvKno1mwx_SDHMDGZfFZOdfsNheoAbpNyaIowM9q0HzVctmdLMYoi4pHXmETVQv8V8pvOo8KeBSjRu-6YTc5v6BASdEqp7Y-SYpYVAveJ9puqf2w2/s1600/Chandertal-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MWvIz4ql5aijra0rFWpUYruWTc9wvKno1mwx_SDHMDGZfFZOdfsNheoAbpNyaIowM9q0HzVctmdLMYoi4pHXmETVQv8V8pvOo8KeBSjRu-6YTc5v6BASdEqp7Y-SYpYVAveJ9puqf2w2/s640/Chandertal-12.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If there were no clouds, we could have seen the snow capped peaks from here. It is indeed a magnificent view from this place. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTp9GCI6ZxI0CVywTWcPGukRXzSogRJNzVvw3zasVurugHDI7E81oO5XuivzpQ75Buj1WKELZ4ZGHDzK2OICqLVfdcMxGAVmd-51Hw33F3yseO_OyfCFx28sLIWOgcQB8LUQLcoPGbMXD/s1600/Chandertal-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTp9GCI6ZxI0CVywTWcPGukRXzSogRJNzVvw3zasVurugHDI7E81oO5XuivzpQ75Buj1WKELZ4ZGHDzK2OICqLVfdcMxGAVmd-51Hw33F3yseO_OyfCFx28sLIWOgcQB8LUQLcoPGbMXD/s640/Chandertal-10.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Except Bhargav and Satish uncle, we all went to the top of another hill to view the golden sunset.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5v-g5-LR1eCm0qrqGifYVHIIwsM_ESbzD5PSbtwj0fCjFE9ZREANmpV3xV3IyIYqcO5Z0V_lmyec1aSUhNqHhfXSzajnNsOEajkviVRjk5OOm582NjrVD2i15R00uoLI81z-RSIQTqMU/s1600/Chandertal-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5v-g5-LR1eCm0qrqGifYVHIIwsM_ESbzD5PSbtwj0fCjFE9ZREANmpV3xV3IyIYqcO5Z0V_lmyec1aSUhNqHhfXSzajnNsOEajkviVRjk5OOm582NjrVD2i15R00uoLI81z-RSIQTqMU/s640/Chandertal-13.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is believed, Chandratal was discovered by traders who came to the region from Tibet or Ladakh. After an arduous journey, the traders used to rest near the lake before resuming their journey to Kullu or Spiti.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90Oj2w6vygjfEDEQAMemtSvyOSLyJZ-l66s4eqK4cKa6Rqgtt_utegwqEXX6ju1upe-upgEK1lSbX9jhK_fBmrFa2xZTjeDD2fOQD60eXa9xId3vyddXgQfN4bllHgjfXft2B2Uh7PWw8/s1600/Chandratal-landscape-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90Oj2w6vygjfEDEQAMemtSvyOSLyJZ-l66s4eqK4cKa6Rqgtt_utegwqEXX6ju1upe-upgEK1lSbX9jhK_fBmrFa2xZTjeDD2fOQD60eXa9xId3vyddXgQfN4bllHgjfXft2B2Uh7PWw8/s640/Chandratal-landscape-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The sweet water lake is around 2.5 km wide. It is the source of Chandra River which merges with Bhaga River to form Chandrabhaga River and later assumes the identity of Chenab.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The lake can be visited only during the three summer months. For the rest of the season, the lake remains cut off and frozen.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIFETTfvRKTn8jLmRydw51KuprjLIAK4pfv5fnLmvm1JXifD2GOPcM_04QP67fSychNQO4-8bjr0VkMWsAK74sEko6Prp-nbal1iRQJGmti0kbbFL3ESJPfPbmrVe8G6iD2rt_BhJKgqu/s1600/Chandertal-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIFETTfvRKTn8jLmRydw51KuprjLIAK4pfv5fnLmvm1JXifD2GOPcM_04QP67fSychNQO4-8bjr0VkMWsAK74sEko6Prp-nbal1iRQJGmti0kbbFL3ESJPfPbmrVe8G6iD2rt_BhJKgqu/s640/Chandertal-14.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Though the place is barren and bereft of any human settlement, it is a famous camping site during summer. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuBZSZF4J1MHKTQzgKqfaZ8xKuQQISmLRhAztmyIe9gAEQjRGQt1khqG70sNGFWn9bKjdjmOriff_-mAuzMaNnRIqGyKBcvXTPIPtC6ceYyEs1yEeQtBY7UVFE6b6YfILHS-c9tnDofqR/s1600/Chandertal-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuBZSZF4J1MHKTQzgKqfaZ8xKuQQISmLRhAztmyIe9gAEQjRGQt1khqG70sNGFWn9bKjdjmOriff_-mAuzMaNnRIqGyKBcvXTPIPtC6ceYyEs1yEeQtBY7UVFE6b6YfILHS-c9tnDofqR/s640/Chandertal-20.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Travelers often get awestruck by the blue colour of the lake, bordered by wide carpet of green grass coupled with the pristine white of Chandra Bhaga mountain range.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XK6wvnplnmrPWHJEvxHTS8ZRxse0pWVZDQy4PxRN-0wj-tsN5cAC6p-rhRrg3ioyIdNoQb9YGDZao4QHkIVKofhL_QCmcgDTd8K1szz0Vd05Z33vHLGjKXBZj0rxAChvqA13x7RU6xCx/s1600/Chandertal-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XK6wvnplnmrPWHJEvxHTS8ZRxse0pWVZDQy4PxRN-0wj-tsN5cAC6p-rhRrg3ioyIdNoQb9YGDZao4QHkIVKofhL_QCmcgDTd8K1szz0Vd05Z33vHLGjKXBZj0rxAChvqA13x7RU6xCx/s640/Chandertal-22.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After the sunset we set off towards our tents by walking in the darkness. Satish uncle did not join us as he had already gone back to the tent much earlier. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bhargav at the valley</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA79BJwXQuGCVd-mdnQ3ahg8cLp1ndAlG4Hi0_GC5Uh4OercMZW3Xxqswldghd9a5ma_xF9oAvevsjbtyI1cc5tpJBuYduX3Ll93DJqXX0DpIHt8wdRgTtwrDYEFgjobwUd1aknuaXrK0v/s1600/Chandertal-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, Bhargav was waiting for us at a small view point. And after sometime, we even lost track of him as he had gone to the tent all by himself.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxF-uwPgJ1RjfV9-54mz5Kp2wh_zMiOc5mvUVTEGyLI9ggarLU9R-mTzmPebVh02ggEx9p5rYsKuMDq273xN9ypr4aKOzYfbnJUnDcjkfa3SniHPtQkkk8GIcDK3yLz85lB0YzL3JrfEkb/s1600/Chandertal-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxF-uwPgJ1RjfV9-54mz5Kp2wh_zMiOc5mvUVTEGyLI9ggarLU9R-mTzmPebVh02ggEx9p5rYsKuMDq273xN9ypr4aKOzYfbnJUnDcjkfa3SniHPtQkkk8GIcDK3yLz85lB0YzL3JrfEkb/s640/Chandertal-24.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3n6DVmLmhf_28UGnf6Qp07DFfPo9hJyMNd4jZBNRxk2CfwgRPzQkwpwXLANQp1d3XhYkheRpcgboCnXrYqGQP9tRuSozAdpAS78kUUI-mKTgNG3qMRfU5SJ67VOmflroQxOD44cgYA1OQ/s1600/Chandertal-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3n6DVmLmhf_28UGnf6Qp07DFfPo9hJyMNd4jZBNRxk2CfwgRPzQkwpwXLANQp1d3XhYkheRpcgboCnXrYqGQP9tRuSozAdpAS78kUUI-mKTgNG3qMRfU5SJ67VOmflroQxOD44cgYA1OQ/s640/Chandertal-25.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached the tent around 7.00 PM, and were served with a hot cup of soup. It helped us regain our lost energy and brought the dead cells back to life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The dinner was served by 9.00 PM. Post that, we hit the bed to earn a well deserved sleep, as it was a long and tiring day. The whole night was a circus, as none of us could sleep properly. The cold winds & less space made us go crazy.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilAS_yRl6WrZ87nNyFvnEfYqz2Oc1dYPETQeIPkyow6n7jU3JpSssa2VvJkM7O3wfJ9LnEqN-j8jtfsO1dZ1Z9_hRaXOW2qJMwKyn9S2VcalwNZrBNgGVtXH37zOENxF76PTcMNbuwrJ9p/s1600/Chandertal-Kaza-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Useful information :</u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. Options to stay are limited in Chandratal. PWD guesthouses and rooms let out on rent by villagers at Kunzum Pass and Batal are the main options to stay. In summer, majority of the tourists prefer to stay in camp at Chandratal.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Options to eat are limited in Chandratal. There are some small dhabas at Batal which offer food. The eateries(tents) in Chandratal offer limited Indian food. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Don’t expect any exotic cuisine.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. The best time to visit Chandratal is from June end to September end.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. Camping is allowed near Chandertal, and many people offer their tents on a rental basis.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. The price for each tent differs.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">7. Lunch is not included in the package. Only dinner and breakfast are counted</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">8. Vehicles do not go till the lake, we need to walk for around 2kms from the last parking point of the vehicles</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">9. Do not litter the place. Plastic should be banned</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">10. Be a responsible traveler / tourist.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">11. The mercury drops during night. Stay warm by dressing in layers</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">12. Symptoms such as flu , fever, head ache are common at high altitudes. Do not be panicked </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thanks for viewing</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBA-CFJcoIS8IBB3ipSOGZX1dRhljJDOmOFPhofK6bhQgJ2yuICLDBYaeAq8ye38n095OrplMyyw1K_ygv7EIkd5WeBQFnOcxw9ciBAzmbxfEf8WLXr4IB-HkHrDzykau-IYomcbYfVFI_/s1600/leftarrows.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></a><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How is the journey from Chandertal to Kaza ?? To know more, click on the link below</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpAoVoo0rPwLVABVCZv_t-pDbdBBXNNPy-dEtoh5UN2MzSB8-1FbM5CDTUfKKijm_sNswleEDxp0gGZagauTNkACUPZ2B2BSVGM-iU6Aw7QkZ_x7faA5ZUWO-HqHuoIw1y8vmRPsP6yLs/s1600/left.JPG" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #f1c232;"> </span><span style="color: orange;">Introduction </span></a></i></span></b><br />
<b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 1)</span></a></i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i> <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-kaza-via.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Journey to Kaza </span></a></i></span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><span style="color: orange;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;"> </span><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-kaza-via.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">(Page 3)</span></a></span></i></span></b></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-45628991828286700592016-10-31T18:28:00.000+05:302016-10-31T18:28:21.287+05:30Spectacular Spiti<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #eeeeee; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(Page 1)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #ffd966; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Introduction</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Spiti Valley was one such place that had been in my wish list from a very long time. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before I start my experiences about Spiti, let me share a few words on how this magical journey was planned.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Myself and a few of my friends planned to do a Himalayan trek this year. Once all things were sorted out, we decided on the<b> "Valley of Flowers" </b>trek. Since this was a monsoon trek, we had to take some precautions before proceeding. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For people who are not aware of this place, let me describe it briefly.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>This is one such place in India which has been identified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Valley of Flowers National Park is an Indian national park, located in West Himalaya, in the state of Uttarakhand and is known for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and the variety of flora. This richly diverse area is also home to rare and endangered animals, including the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, brown bear, red fox, and blue sheep. Birds found in the park include Himalayan monal pheasant and other high altitude birds.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">More information about this place can be found online.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In total 13 enthusiastic people confirmed their reservations. Leaves were approved for most of us, and some were yet fighting for leaves which is a usual scenario in the corporate world :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Based on the majority, we booked the flights that were scheduled to depart on Aug 5th (Bangalore to Delhi) and return on Aug 15th (Delhi to Bangalore). The interim transportation and accomodation bookings at GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam - Ghangaria) was also made.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, some of my friends started to cancel their participation once the days neared. At last only 6 of us proceeded with the journey.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On Aug 2nd, we got to know that heavy rains had lashed the Garhwal region, due to which many landslides caused had temporary road blocks. Though there was a news that it would be cleared by the time we go there, we did not want to take any risk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Believe me, the entire travel had to be replanned within 3 days prior to our journey. Many logistics had to be handled, new place had to be jotted , transportation had to be re booked and finally cancellations of the old plan had to be carried over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thanks to my friends and uncle, who helped me in this plan because of which we had no hassles in the journey.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since Delhi was our base destination, the only place that we thought of as an alternative was the ever charming and incredibly spectacular Spiti valley. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b style="color: #ffe599;">The Team :</b></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7UXcz60fKP_tFAePMONC0M131L5X4BLdZC6VVxjSAW4V_yRLMHDfE8PcywHHGHOS1Fkn6809GSphgav5EepzjjmYBgpAZecdNp2cJ5S3VSAE-_aXqMnVP1knO-a1ZOj5AuhGVhe47xjI/s1600/43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7UXcz60fKP_tFAePMONC0M131L5X4BLdZC6VVxjSAW4V_yRLMHDfE8PcywHHGHOS1Fkn6809GSphgav5EepzjjmYBgpAZecdNp2cJ5S3VSAE-_aXqMnVP1knO-a1ZOj5AuhGVhe47xjI/s640/43.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(L to R : Bhargav , Satish uncle , Venki , Dheeraj , Karthik (CG) , Arjun )</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b style="color: #ffe599;">The </b></span><span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>itinerary:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 1 : Bangalore to Delhi (afternoon flight)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Delhi to Manali (night bus)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 2 : Local sightseeing in Manali</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 3 : Manali to Chandertal (halt at Chandertal)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 4 : Chandertal to Kaza (via Kunzum pass & Losar - halt at Kaza)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 5 : Kaza local sight seeing (Langza , Komic , Hikkim , Key , Kibber , Chicham - Halt at Kaza) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 6 : Kaza to Mudh village (Journey from Spiti valley to Pin valley - halt at Mudh)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 7 : Mudh to Tabo & Dhankar (halt at Kaza)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 8 : Kaza to Manali (halt at Manali)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 9 : Visit to Solang valley & Naggar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Manali to Delhi (volvo bus)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 10 : Delhi local sightseeing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 11 : Delhi to Bangalore (early morning flight)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #ffe599; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>The Journey :</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Day 1 : Aug 5th , 2016</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The d-day finally arrived, and we were all set to venture for yet another Himalayan sojourn. We all met at KIA (Bangalore airport) to unbox the treasury called 'Spiti' and the first leg of our journey kick started within no time.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2X6Fzzag3ucReyGqM-CIf3gebWJ6wJMCvtGvaBf2o2MMY-hOmF7w0gt-jIJzdrXz3gx7TR86B2yUG02U3c6gHT5q2KlpEVqrOImcTiHqU-yh7ge8dFTa8Tv8ZdPTbx1OpNpEA8ZLHsRx0/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2X6Fzzag3ucReyGqM-CIf3gebWJ6wJMCvtGvaBf2o2MMY-hOmF7w0gt-jIJzdrXz3gx7TR86B2yUG02U3c6gHT5q2KlpEVqrOImcTiHqU-yh7ge8dFTa8Tv8ZdPTbx1OpNpEA8ZLHsRx0/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(L to R : Arjun , Satish uncle , Karthik (CG) , Bhargav , Venki)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rains bid a farewell to us at Bengaluru.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJBDiqQBL2kFVYad6zazJ0gZW8jFMnn0oLwuGLKBKzakMUt60yMChTWCqQ7BvVtO6uLUNPJd4rf0mxE_9j2Qm9GiPOuFe-M4luDfW99GQZBYBJVW1EK7WANQwifbSGdVzPFN9hY0kS3us/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJBDiqQBL2kFVYad6zazJ0gZW8jFMnn0oLwuGLKBKzakMUt60yMChTWCqQ7BvVtO6uLUNPJd4rf0mxE_9j2Qm9GiPOuFe-M4luDfW99GQZBYBJVW1EK7WANQwifbSGdVzPFN9hY0kS3us/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Nandi hills and monsoon rains</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">We reached Delhi around 5.30 PM , and met a few friends before departing to Manali.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">with Ritu and Deepanshu at Bikanerwala</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The bus to Manali was scheduled to depart at 8.30 PM. However, many pickup points and the city traffic allowed us to hit the highway only at 11.30 PM.</span></div>
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<b style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Day 2 : Aug 6th , 2016</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Early morning refreshment stop at Mandi, made us realise that we are in the foothills of the Himalayas. Rains welcomed us, and the weather was pleasant with greenery everywhere.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxTOrwAQ9b4-QHEfXuByUG8jlO4-oGfzDedlCDsfXo1LdZlqTtsUr3B7Q8gOxysO3jORq9HCGD1zD1mEIGbaNJSBMwlFt9wD2RXtTXWNCIMFn8sdRecNKjOrE53PnQPZoQ6axQfkyPW8Nn/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxTOrwAQ9b4-QHEfXuByUG8jlO4-oGfzDedlCDsfXo1LdZlqTtsUr3B7Q8gOxysO3jORq9HCGD1zD1mEIGbaNJSBMwlFt9wD2RXtTXWNCIMFn8sdRecNKjOrE53PnQPZoQ6axQfkyPW8Nn/s640/5.jpg" width="410" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Beas river and Beas valley </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The bus was supposed to reach Manali by 10 AM, but the weather and ghat section delayed our journey. We reached Manali by 2.00 PM </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rakeshji (who was our driver for the rest of our journey) was waiting for us at the bus stand. He then dropped us to "Hotel Anupam" where we retired for the day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a delayed lunch by 4.30 PM , we started to roam around Manali. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #b6d7a8; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>1. Hadimba temple </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hadimba temple is a beautiful temple nestled in the pine forests of Manali. It is one of the major tourist destination here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima, a figure in the Indian epic Mahabhārata. The temple is surrounded by a cedar forest at the foot of the Himalayas. The sanctuary is built over a huge rock jutting out of the ground which was worshiped as an image of the deity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This place is filled with corn vendors , traditional dress rentals , yak rides , photo rabbits among the others to attract tourists.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMPZS1GRgG02B6nrIhMoDcXVeTw4ltKk0F9u_ZRrby7VBPbs53Bz5S5MqZGBwmYkw2VpLKQYGFSRTJMFDuZl3gl4rf9A1mftuQFM5fBm_i9Qwdp8Zi4Njy6R35ibmuoVtaFPGlboHvNg8/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMPZS1GRgG02B6nrIhMoDcXVeTw4ltKk0F9u_ZRrby7VBPbs53Bz5S5MqZGBwmYkw2VpLKQYGFSRTJMFDuZl3gl4rf9A1mftuQFM5fBm_i9Qwdp8Zi4Njy6R35ibmuoVtaFPGlboHvNg8/s640/2.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Also, a small temple dedicated to Gatothgaja , son of Bhima is located in the vicinity.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWj1oCO8D1CwaBxIrPzI6JpK5sXJO_YnTSDrya4U53FOz70XcQSXmL7Rr9WeEbxD3EXn-UQtiKyIeP1xtc9OEaOKLFc9fVNMS6Tj9ysBH1QTqjiQUf5nqESm0o6flZ8UdKvDJG8ZTrqUzl/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWj1oCO8D1CwaBxIrPzI6JpK5sXJO_YnTSDrya4U53FOz70XcQSXmL7Rr9WeEbxD3EXn-UQtiKyIeP1xtc9OEaOKLFc9fVNMS6Tj9ysBH1QTqjiQUf5nqESm0o6flZ8UdKvDJG8ZTrqUzl/s640/3.jpg" width="422" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="color: #b6d7a8;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. Manali mall road</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Evening set in, and so was the drop in temperature. We then took a small stroll from the Hadimba temple to the mall road. Spending the evening in the mall road of Manali is a real good feeling every tourist must experience.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuok1waBEZrTUHm8YF4qQ2e_Sj6F9n_vReex2CkpXQiC778hdvqXqVBa0M-u2Fd5dPcNRQXCAox0FscxYs_j47wFojNt6Ms6JyeeFoLV7gS7MnWzH5HgfGREHbA33p9GagjPnEViQt5qp1/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuok1waBEZrTUHm8YF4qQ2e_Sj6F9n_vReex2CkpXQiC778hdvqXqVBa0M-u2Fd5dPcNRQXCAox0FscxYs_j47wFojNt6Ms6JyeeFoLV7gS7MnWzH5HgfGREHbA33p9GagjPnEViQt5qp1/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Manali Mall road is not an iconic high street, instead it is a crowded stretch housing the bus stand, taxi stand, ATM, market and the tourism office. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6iT28vwt0ShGjt5qmZN9itR35wOzHb3oZqtya_AU2aWTDYNm8vEcpGSOTVVS67Fw22kSv2OTIxU3f2Pv1rf5AJzpkuTbMSBz38poWtBVW6hED9H-E6A945dDO1Rrri36Jv2qu5DNdw_i/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6iT28vwt0ShGjt5qmZN9itR35wOzHb3oZqtya_AU2aWTDYNm8vEcpGSOTVVS67Fw22kSv2OTIxU3f2Pv1rf5AJzpkuTbMSBz38poWtBVW6hED9H-E6A945dDO1Rrri36Jv2qu5DNdw_i/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hotels on Manali Mall Road is not suggested for those looking forward to spend a quiet holiday in a hill resort.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hqVic0axXLgIW2FIzmHZhHH7oheh0PsaGmWCWRoMVBtjCHC0854NJoW8kH0B6mwAd-pg-FWfc7FOs-eTfIwRL90zm7wwWdA9m6oxexZYIQyahbF3l5AscciONqNSx2XW7OWaK2I5sM88/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hqVic0axXLgIW2FIzmHZhHH7oheh0PsaGmWCWRoMVBtjCHC0854NJoW8kH0B6mwAd-pg-FWfc7FOs-eTfIwRL90zm7wwWdA9m6oxexZYIQyahbF3l5AscciONqNSx2XW7OWaK2I5sM88/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you are based in a hotel right in the town centre, you will have to compromise on the views.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitrK5fPmZ7XIkZnwleecIjGL9aOqyd8EVOfPgOdzrtrMZZl1jSHNX_UnXSFpLMD45zLPuUgs_RPq-9QNCOxpSUmvNmQ19m_hHbn0aJfh2mp2CkUl-977pBsy6dcKzYCUVlv51XMG4oe6or/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitrK5fPmZ7XIkZnwleecIjGL9aOqyd8EVOfPgOdzrtrMZZl1jSHNX_UnXSFpLMD45zLPuUgs_RPq-9QNCOxpSUmvNmQ19m_hHbn0aJfh2mp2CkUl-977pBsy6dcKzYCUVlv51XMG4oe6or/s640/7.jpg" width="460" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mall Road offers a decent mix of budget and value for money hotels in Manali. Since this area offers a better accomodation option to the travellers, it is well suited for those who want the comfort of a decent hotel at a good price. The area is again well connected to other parts of Manali and is a popular location for those looking for a good value for money on their accomodation.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEC4phjpMTk5-sqrM_lgb-keaEjBwIJU2sCXom06adwART_rnqWgfopug9Rj2SQEaqYAArSKxQ7YPadeKlFo7Re2b9q-HmcD2eQGg_IXFvfcq7-QDyRUFX7OzNZMxl-cHtIuoTwLB1d1wo/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEC4phjpMTk5-sqrM_lgb-keaEjBwIJU2sCXom06adwART_rnqWgfopug9Rj2SQEaqYAArSKxQ7YPadeKlFo7Re2b9q-HmcD2eQGg_IXFvfcq7-QDyRUFX7OzNZMxl-cHtIuoTwLB1d1wo/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The rest of the journey to Spiti and our experiences can be seen in my further blogs.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Do you know how beautiful Chandertal is ? Click on the link below</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-moon.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOHTGokRDB-ZKEnhJmesZdGGiHZMiFRa7ihiJIoLUmF5YoDSK8buKRnkFA6CEqqwm_0FCkIddg0zRWECAL3RCBBJ6y8bHt1y9-hlTcRy5fP47g58BNPadKn-6F5v1mhEDBI3k3JA27Ucv/s1600/right.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/10/spectacular-spiti-journey-to-moon.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Chandertal (Page 2)</span></a></i></span></b></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-30308500472760174782016-04-03T23:26:00.001+05:302017-03-18T17:00:56.874+05:30Hampi : Karnataka's Pride and World's Heritage<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUc7o_tqP6VRXaiyOI6x9Ke5H_N-48lr9wPtl7IksDmRW3UEN53lVl27QQTp5z51J3aJ5nWvyWgp3ZBtkfrHqi3oVsCWl2-gJKXk0KYHu9lQf71fWxg5FQkabz0YFG_9TJ194JlJzF8tV/s1600/Stone_chariot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUc7o_tqP6VRXaiyOI6x9Ke5H_N-48lr9wPtl7IksDmRW3UEN53lVl27QQTp5z51J3aJ5nWvyWgp3ZBtkfrHqi3oVsCWl2-gJKXk0KYHu9lQf71fWxg5FQkabz0YFG_9TJ194JlJzF8tV/s1600/Stone_chariot.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The name 'Hampi' is literally a visual treat and a soothing music to the new species of human race called Photographers and Travelers. It was a blessed land which was once filled with wealth and glory, has now been turned to a cursed land with only ruins. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This short visit to Hampi was special to me, as it was my first visit . Though I stayed in Bangalore for all these years, I had not visited Hampi before.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The plan was made in a hurry, and two of my colleagues (Venkatesh a.k.a. Venki & Kanheiya) agreed to join me. We then booked the Sugama sleeper bus, which was scheduled to depart at 10 PM on 3rd March, 2016. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After the hustle-bustle of city's traffic, the bus finally hit the free road by 11.30 PM. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Early in the morning, we were in for a surprise at Hospet bus stand. The crew member of Sugama told us to alight at Hospet and continue our onward journey to Hampi. After the discussion with him, we learnt only few KSRTC buses would ply to Hampi and the rest of them terminated at Hospet. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached Hospet by 5.15 AM and was approached by many auto drivers who were willing to take us to Hampi . Since no small buses/tum-tums were available at that time, we decided to go by auto only. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hampi is around 12 kms from Hospet, and the ride in the darkness was quite exciting. We then checked into a small homestay which is very near to the Virupaksha temple. After refreshing, we then headed to Hemakuta hills to witness the sunrise. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ovz9y-CXK5MuLpjp2jqKXauZaqgxMK_ha74S0jTT97D48sjO0JQQu4jwnXcY-B8CxnfQ7pdhX7LCMc5YIwJYGgaSvhqvaDtgpdUQZTAkUHPxLkudWYChPRzYnI3VGS6KzGXxVuTXjYKS/s1600/team-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ovz9y-CXK5MuLpjp2jqKXauZaqgxMK_ha74S0jTT97D48sjO0JQQu4jwnXcY-B8CxnfQ7pdhX7LCMc5YIwJYGgaSvhqvaDtgpdUQZTAkUHPxLkudWYChPRzYnI3VGS6KzGXxVuTXjYKS/s1600/team-2.jpg" /></span></a></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(The team : Kanheiya , Venki and Yours Faithfully)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>(4th March , 2016)</i></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luckily, the sky was still dark and we were off to reach Hemakuta. None of us knew the way, and hence climbed small hillocks, jumped across compounds to reach Hemakuta.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hemakuta hill :</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is not one of the tallest hills in Hampi. But this hilltop offers a splendid view of the sprawling ruins site.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBNo7SSkdQoovrSvX5gxPSuVDHXAjB5K-vRbHzITuoZl5S49viVc8Ced8weIJSCUdfcbisxYhWbiW8AqhBAxSDllYDo-szDWIc8wz7qIkmm0rqH-aqCRV_UBPBsre7qCvQXWX-P6p16ot/s1600/sunrise-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBNo7SSkdQoovrSvX5gxPSuVDHXAjB5K-vRbHzITuoZl5S49viVc8Ced8weIJSCUdfcbisxYhWbiW8AqhBAxSDllYDo-szDWIc8wz7qIkmm0rqH-aqCRV_UBPBsre7qCvQXWX-P6p16ot/s1600/sunrise-1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hemakuta Hill is one among the best places in Hampi to see the sunrise and sunset. It is very easy to reach the top compared to the Matanga Hill, which is boasted as the best location to watch sunrise and sunset in Hampi.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNQkJT8AbdSRxI-Hp7N06LyRTbQGp9KzxD4OtJ6O7dxAj4Y7-Ezh4yyQiB0k_sElJBC32Uvd1wzQHMmw6nDw-HaSMz_db2Fq0cX02e6NM_bokzeuFlUbnxYUsO-dFLkvGdqECMtsIUQHr/s1600/sunrise-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNQkJT8AbdSRxI-Hp7N06LyRTbQGp9KzxD4OtJ6O7dxAj4Y7-Ezh4yyQiB0k_sElJBC32Uvd1wzQHMmw6nDw-HaSMz_db2Fq0cX02e6NM_bokzeuFlUbnxYUsO-dFLkvGdqECMtsIUQHr/s1600/sunrise-2.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">An easier and a quicker option to watch the sun's spectacle would be Hemakuta.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sunrise on the Matanga hill</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMGzDwX6eAVNQ08oeAUDvxWrGnwv_fN21KWZahIJAs6osUzITCSBqq5QdkkInPdzueuRuYBuDGs12OsnIc2Jk5DLXLtYiKTa5gpsGUWg1JWbje0pBixTp6pdq2TVqf46T44cJ3Mlk2xZ8/s1600/Langur-jump-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMGzDwX6eAVNQ08oeAUDvxWrGnwv_fN21KWZahIJAs6osUzITCSBqq5QdkkInPdzueuRuYBuDGs12OsnIc2Jk5DLXLtYiKTa5gpsGUWg1JWbje0pBixTp6pdq2TVqf46T44cJ3Mlk2xZ8/s1600/Langur-jump-1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Langur jumping on the Tenali Mantapa</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mWvDWyroPQpNo6-OEOwvlINaXtzW4ACPlfEGwaPNIqsiGRlydPb-UryTdtnfFe5BWxwDOuJ6qlcG_bPFFzZgcHVvYtO_xl39RDAX-OcMWh6swemLd4QaDjX_2TmI-jyMOdtE_Dn0fBC0/s1600/Langur-jump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mWvDWyroPQpNo6-OEOwvlINaXtzW4ACPlfEGwaPNIqsiGRlydPb-UryTdtnfFe5BWxwDOuJ6qlcG_bPFFzZgcHVvYtO_xl39RDAX-OcMWh6swemLd4QaDjX_2TmI-jyMOdtE_Dn0fBC0/s1600/Langur-jump.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0C-tbrQ4nvcNp3Et40qnc6F4eN33aoMMJd1fDZ84hHOwjaAugeyYebJp-jXQafotmmwu7aO9hS6C3Az9ZJ7518dyyRPIQ8AkfFr0E-3NPyYE-RuW8vhkiteU0WdZlsI4nbQnXDX0l8FcE/s1600/mantapa-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0C-tbrQ4nvcNp3Et40qnc6F4eN33aoMMJd1fDZ84hHOwjaAugeyYebJp-jXQafotmmwu7aO9hS6C3Az9ZJ7518dyyRPIQ8AkfFr0E-3NPyYE-RuW8vhkiteU0WdZlsI4nbQnXDX0l8FcE/s1600/mantapa-3.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This hill has many temples, mantapas , rock inscriptions and pavilions. After a small climb to the top (about 15 minutes climb) , it is almost a flat land and easy to walk around.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXU436Y6vv4Loe1LTEzFa5qefr4gK8ex3m_OQWKK0UPCeG8oZpifdEipCGw91rJNk0gBKZUCUPEcpiM_CzEC02ot2dr3AtLqQuh7HLUb9FLoco03yu1QlXWz-_AIb2w1WdzSJwFJIa8V1/s1600/mantapa-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXU436Y6vv4Loe1LTEzFa5qefr4gK8ex3m_OQWKK0UPCeG8oZpifdEipCGw91rJNk0gBKZUCUPEcpiM_CzEC02ot2dr3AtLqQuh7HLUb9FLoco03yu1QlXWz-_AIb2w1WdzSJwFJIa8V1/s1600/mantapa-5.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Accessing Hemakuta can be done through two main gateways : One is through Virupaksha temple entrance, and the other is from Sasivekalu and Kadalekalu Ganesha temples.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are a number of temples in this area that are dedicated to Lord Shiva, the major one being the Virupaksha temple .</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This place is packed with the large number of pre Vijayanagara temples. Atop there is Moola Virupaksha Temple with a pool infront, considered to be the original Virupaksha Temple.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">According to folklore, sage Vidyaranya prayed god and it had rained gold coins in a cave on this hill, which helped Hakka and Bukka to establish the Vijayanagara empire. Hence the name 'Hemakuta', 'Hema' means gold in Sanskrit.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The beautiful sunrise caused a gold cast spread over the entire complex, and it was a joy to photograph the spectacle. Myself and Venki were roaming around to try out different compositions and lighting, while Kanheiya was trying out timelapse.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proceeding towards north from this place, takes you to the famous Virupaksha temple. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Virupaksha Temple :</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Believed to be functioning ever since its inception in the 7th century AD, Virupaksha temple is the oldest and the main temple in Hampi. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This temple is located on the south bank of the river Tungabadra. The area in general has been an important pilgrimage centre for the worshipers of lord Shiva. Virupaksha temple is equally sought after by the tourists and pilgrims. The annual festivals attract huge crowds of both types of people.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is one of the prime areas in Hampi, and is close to all the hotels, home stays , shops , bus station etc.,</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBZo1RCqAdcJv_0qC6VCBYAAlmsLSrNsyjQ3qyVsYtjnO8JtO3QvYKyG0MFccz_ql_AF15jPjraEEVmy_oqv6iwf6i5h7fCZchNVlMLYaLgRG3-qlGXMOuOX4__wA7_I76Xnl2bQTG925/s1600/Temple-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBZo1RCqAdcJv_0qC6VCBYAAlmsLSrNsyjQ3qyVsYtjnO8JtO3QvYKyG0MFccz_ql_AF15jPjraEEVmy_oqv6iwf6i5h7fCZchNVlMLYaLgRG3-qlGXMOuOX4__wA7_I76Xnl2bQTG925/s1600/Temple-8.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is fully intact among the surrounding ruins and is still used in worship. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as Virupaksha, and his consort goddess Pampa.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPZgpTPxqPKGNA7ADTzoEnrkbCKlwVmcWQDqFuKK8RcA2_EXjWKyXao7gniGDKbuDhuuVvoncL7QrN_aqbRHiIwEu1xD6b3ElnnIBuCMfobJpcvqK214RkzkyG1ETEkmCVdeHyAKZyggH/s1600/Temple-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPZgpTPxqPKGNA7ADTzoEnrkbCKlwVmcWQDqFuKK8RcA2_EXjWKyXao7gniGDKbuDhuuVvoncL7QrN_aqbRHiIwEu1xD6b3ElnnIBuCMfobJpcvqK214RkzkyG1ETEkmCVdeHyAKZyggH/s1600/Temple-12.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Currently, the Virupaksha Temple consists of an open pillared hall , three chambers and a sanctum.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvqhhnTmVRmrSN7GuVrP7kJhdm66K2ApyFsh-nsxVQ89xWrP-afMKUgECWskbc4-Jr0CQgV1N6b468X3fyIzilL7F3EhqZMxJvxR00AacAnGcCbNu2nBojBVxMl6RPX1WHUr9CI2b7q3F/s1600/temple-pano-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvqhhnTmVRmrSN7GuVrP7kJhdm66K2ApyFsh-nsxVQ89xWrP-afMKUgECWskbc4-Jr0CQgV1N6b468X3fyIzilL7F3EhqZMxJvxR00AacAnGcCbNu2nBojBVxMl6RPX1WHUr9CI2b7q3F/s1600/temple-pano-1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The above image was created by stitching 6 individual images to form a panorama.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiazaj5qMZqji6JFsfe8cshPb5VcByoX6kv8Z6b0-605p5hzu21T0F9fhUIbzO-6jmupD0LRBEJ74pVOB4saPeROrQ-6npwzeOSadqmXGkrZqVdazgXhCCTHOhSpyeaMwdcbzXo5fBUQEQO/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiazaj5qMZqji6JFsfe8cshPb5VcByoX6kv8Z6b0-605p5hzu21T0F9fhUIbzO-6jmupD0LRBEJ74pVOB4saPeROrQ-6npwzeOSadqmXGkrZqVdazgXhCCTHOhSpyeaMwdcbzXo5fBUQEQO/s1600/10.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Virupaksha temple's main Gopura </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture courtesy : Venki</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We then proceeded towards our home stay , refreshed , had a sumptuous breakfast and then headed towards the Royal Enclosure of Hampi.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Earlier motor bikes were rented for travelling around Hampi. This is stopped at present and bicycles are available for hire.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our plan on Day 1 was to cover the monuments near the Royal Enclosure (on the way to Kamalapura) and witness the sunset from Hemakuta hills.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">The initial excitement was very high, as most of us were riding a bicycle after a long time. After a small duration, the ascending roads of Hampi was a tough challenge for our stamina. The empty water bottles and the scorching sun were a good combination that overpowered us. The thrill was good nevertheless.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sVAOMNAD7XJSFrPzCeknM2apYhPIgXO2mFI4OHrpWu-E4GWwfg3m-XlyB6fOVIbvHZO6wcWmZ5gRTxe_yN_Vw7W6paGw8UhYQ8uxRQbG_Qhg159lswWvfffl1bpQ3Ygf4Qo58QUBK6z4/s1600/cart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sVAOMNAD7XJSFrPzCeknM2apYhPIgXO2mFI4OHrpWu-E4GWwfg3m-XlyB6fOVIbvHZO6wcWmZ5gRTxe_yN_Vw7W6paGw8UhYQ8uxRQbG_Qhg159lswWvfffl1bpQ3Ygf4Qo58QUBK6z4/s1600/cart.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Many small photography-breaks rejuvenated and brought back life in us. We stopped at everything that looked interesting. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ_O3hQtDnMFRYdULidAX5PLx-HuhaScN86EIOi8iSklx6D2xvEbAxU8ByyeIkdJYzZkb4Y7EhVIWhGkrJ-b2R6j1TlhUAI9KUSgM3qlwR6pVCz3c3-drWpB1ld_JhCc34IB4sAMOucqSj/s1600/goatherd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ_O3hQtDnMFRYdULidAX5PLx-HuhaScN86EIOi8iSklx6D2xvEbAxU8ByyeIkdJYzZkb4Y7EhVIWhGkrJ-b2R6j1TlhUAI9KUSgM3qlwR6pVCz3c3-drWpB1ld_JhCc34IB4sAMOucqSj/s1600/goatherd.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NG8j2xOclEijFBM1Dd26nHMnZ4Cijbg2-q5_yb255l1CDZw2fLu7viOHQfqEJjKviUotd3fLycJ0lwQ8CY2a5SA4evIvduKroVXP0anwro0Daf5zUgw__fz6sJeqz1DHeW1ddNlHNvF9/s1600/team-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NG8j2xOclEijFBM1Dd26nHMnZ4Cijbg2-q5_yb255l1CDZw2fLu7viOHQfqEJjKviUotd3fLycJ0lwQ8CY2a5SA4evIvduKroVXP0anwro0Daf5zUgw__fz6sJeqz1DHeW1ddNlHNvF9/s1600/team-1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cycling through the streets of Hampi is quite amazing. You can see many temples , monuments of historical importance , mantapas , banana plantations etc.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a 4km cycle ride, we stopped at the entrance of Queen's Bath. A glass of lime soda and buttermilk injected a strong dose of energy and enthusiasm in us.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoushTUlBwCGQy7IEDM_Gcf6PpPssQOD7vqXTxRVSZib_kG2OUhgmTUbV-R2kRIwIwyxYBV9CPdN2gWhJWhxTS0fPUYETyrss4CgZlBHpilidIzZqi8681b2hBizXaA7lJ4NyU7gl-zFZs/s1600/soda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoushTUlBwCGQy7IEDM_Gcf6PpPssQOD7vqXTxRVSZib_kG2OUhgmTUbV-R2kRIwIwyxYBV9CPdN2gWhJWhxTS0fPUYETyrss4CgZlBHpilidIzZqi8681b2hBizXaA7lJ4NyU7gl-zFZs/s1600/soda.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Queen's bath :</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Queen’s Bath in Hampi is a huge bathing area that glorifies the architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is located close to the entrance of the Royal Enclosure in Hampi.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXe3rvwS6lRkcLEbzB3Hpaq2Q5e2xwtupKbbIv-NgMyr6i8ZAlLb9Snwc64_dZ4kJKjaEGb0dugHHXKpWgTufBIhjzb0H5x0vpfZAQc_Yf882Ci4pBj6VwkKPiUasPnWe78pl9DCHMLs-/s1600/queens-bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXe3rvwS6lRkcLEbzB3Hpaq2Q5e2xwtupKbbIv-NgMyr6i8ZAlLb9Snwc64_dZ4kJKjaEGb0dugHHXKpWgTufBIhjzb0H5x0vpfZAQc_Yf882Ci4pBj6VwkKPiUasPnWe78pl9DCHMLs-/s1600/queens-bath.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Queen’s Bath is an empty structure now. Its walls have lost their shine and the building has lost its glory. The building looks terribly weak with few visible cracks.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWnCbpYiV54MrZiYc_y5ltJPLrR2BTl7e4BOvOrUuRjnrFF9zth652QZD49-9yNGrHGK4Nma8qAqHxLm6kepHhN6uw9yE10Dev12mnWl_IkPuhBuMa_ms91Lc5b9SkcG4WheH-iIt1uzF/s1600/queens-bath-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWnCbpYiV54MrZiYc_y5ltJPLrR2BTl7e4BOvOrUuRjnrFF9zth652QZD49-9yNGrHGK4Nma8qAqHxLm6kepHhN6uw9yE10Dev12mnWl_IkPuhBuMa_ms91Lc5b9SkcG4WheH-iIt1uzF/s1600/queens-bath-1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The floor of the bath has some empty sockets that were once used to support pillars. These pillars are believed to have been part of a canopy that was destroyed during the Sultan attacks on Hampi.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoGwCZ1UEwsC18CFQOmkyDzKrWWJIkJxyUOVi4mcEH6n0ZkXzKGqSyWbcJbwpm_quuzBDtXCurndvfLzVGzO2eT0Ns4-rvjg9Os-Hr32Qepw_CCueRWzhyitbp6zsjBtHQuvqBNb7rnTr/s1600/queens-bath-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoGwCZ1UEwsC18CFQOmkyDzKrWWJIkJxyUOVi4mcEH6n0ZkXzKGqSyWbcJbwpm_quuzBDtXCurndvfLzVGzO2eT0Ns4-rvjg9Os-Hr32Qepw_CCueRWzhyitbp6zsjBtHQuvqBNb7rnTr/s1600/queens-bath-2.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Some reports have suggested that the bath was not only meant to be for the Queens but was used by the King as well. As the bath is located at the outskirts of Hampi, it was said to be a center of royal pleasure for the King and his Queens.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The walls of this great monument has the inscribed names of silly tourists. This is very awful and disheartening.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Royal Enclosure :</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This fortified area had been the seat of power of the fallen empire. Spread over many hundreds square meters, this area is sprinkled with a number of amazing relics.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On of the best classical structures in this area is the Mahanavami Dibba. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1) Mahanavami Dibba :</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is also known as the Dussera dibba and is located in the Royal Enclosure. It consists of an elevated stone platform on which the Kings used to sit and watch the grand Dassera procession. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsIzSQiIOu2c66BErJGw3_xFSBYWCj8aF9zRCMbZLxDof-byRwAuMwFMBHBI4XtWoo8gPwpMI3kyIMGVVsqVp1xEpH15ftdY33KCgkxwZoA9CFYxjnorvkLj1BvJ1sKzvepdbc4hQIYtT7/s1600/dibba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsIzSQiIOu2c66BErJGw3_xFSBYWCj8aF9zRCMbZLxDof-byRwAuMwFMBHBI4XtWoo8gPwpMI3kyIMGVVsqVp1xEpH15ftdY33KCgkxwZoA9CFYxjnorvkLj1BvJ1sKzvepdbc4hQIYtT7/s1600/dibba.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This impressive structure just looks like a stack of stones from far, but the inscriptions that are carved on them can be witnessed only if we are closer.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMPB2Z8tyPhfp6oMB2W5iU98yvhI0c9SmqKjVsuU4dqc-3wEUprep-NwxqzCgLGMIAEQuZvtvWDbgZXjRQWsP_fG_DDSl7AdBApt_8bMFUdyOnaXrZHUn89XBEgfKjozQ6A8gE6H9bIUc/s1600/dibba-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMPB2Z8tyPhfp6oMB2W5iU98yvhI0c9SmqKjVsuU4dqc-3wEUprep-NwxqzCgLGMIAEQuZvtvWDbgZXjRQWsP_fG_DDSl7AdBApt_8bMFUdyOnaXrZHUn89XBEgfKjozQ6A8gE6H9bIUc/s1600/dibba-1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A pair of Elephants inscribed on a stone - Mahanavami Dibba</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2) Stepped Tank :</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Another huge attraction of the royal enclosure is the stepped tank, which is located very close to the Mahanavami Dibba. It is one of the finest examples of architectural brilliance. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The symmetrical steps are jaw dropping.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM2k3ZwxEHMkmlUYTNlPYXOW80QfKTH05H2V_HsRKj6ev2Lu_1kAvHgthTba7oG54kbsJfPz_jYZAsSk1VNhTBx7r-fAQs00MVldXIcL1ZuJL9KE3HyYgBK7QjDY2z8pD7u4TeogRZyVFw/s1600/pushkarini-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM2k3ZwxEHMkmlUYTNlPYXOW80QfKTH05H2V_HsRKj6ev2Lu_1kAvHgthTba7oG54kbsJfPz_jYZAsSk1VNhTBx7r-fAQs00MVldXIcL1ZuJL9KE3HyYgBK7QjDY2z8pD7u4TeogRZyVFw/s1600/pushkarini-1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It has five distinct tiers, each fitted with steps set in a pleasing pattern. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1y4tKd5_veefvpIj3iGmn8Yzl1Ea36O0DqnlNai1SMeFtMtkYJpYDydQTjae2nBa-t4Nxfur5s0w2lVAUEjeii-KtX1O8whJhDFeR9RRX0PnjBceFSPj6iOqCSMYobLhEEcBo4poQVdKK/s1600/pushkarini-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1y4tKd5_veefvpIj3iGmn8Yzl1Ea36O0DqnlNai1SMeFtMtkYJpYDydQTjae2nBa-t4Nxfur5s0w2lVAUEjeii-KtX1O8whJhDFeR9RRX0PnjBceFSPj6iOqCSMYobLhEEcBo4poQVdKK/s1600/pushkarini-2.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The use of this structure is not known for sure, but history says that the stepped tank was used for religious purposes by the royal dynasty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A small walk from this place takes us to the famous Hazararama temple. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>3) Hazararama temple:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Hazararama temple is the only temple situated in the core zone of the Royal Enclosure between the residential and ceremonial enclosures.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dedicated to Lord Rama, this 15th century temple is the finest example of the Dravida Vimana type of architecture. It has sanctum, pillared dance hall with an entrance porch. There is also a shrine for the goddess which is elegantly sculpted.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The temple is known for its sculptures depicting the Ramayana. It is because of this the temple is evidently called Hazara Rama temple. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Apart from the scultptures depicting Ramayana, this temple also houses scultpures of Bhagavatha. It was undoubtedly the finest structure of the royal patronage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After visiting the Hazararama temple, we then moved towards the Lotus Mahal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b style="color: #f1c232; font-size: x-large;">Zenana Enclosure :</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>1) Lotus Mahal :</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lotus Mahal, also known as Kamal Mahal is situated in the Zenana Enclosure of the monuments.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is a ticketed monument and a single ticket would let you into the Zenana Enclosure covering several monuments including Elephant Stables. The term Zenana to the Queens’ enclosure along with the servants’ quarters and private temples.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A ticket costs Rs.10/- for an Indian and Rs. 250/- for a Foreign national. This ticket is also valid to visit the Vijaya Vittala temple.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;">2) Elephant Stables :</span></b></span></div>
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A walk from the Lotus Mahal, leads you to the elephant stables. This is a beautiful symmetrical structure built in the Indo-Islamic style of architecture.</div>
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One among the few least destroyed structures in Hampi, Elephant Stable is a major tourist attraction. This rectangular building with a row of domed chambers was the shelter of royal elephants. There are 11 domed tall chambers and the center one is specially decorated and big.</div>
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The tender coconut and a glass of lime soda near the place was another lifer for us to beat the hot sun. We then walked back towards the Mahanavami Dibba to collect our parked cycles to go back to Hampi.</div>
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One the way back, we realized that none of us had much money left , and the nearest ATM was in Kamalapura (5 kms from Hampi). We then rode towards Kamalapura in search of an ATM. </div>
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We then headed back to Hampi for lunch. Enroute, we visited another famous statue of Lord Ugra Narasimha.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: large;">Ugra Narasimha :</span></b></div>
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This beautiful statue is arguably one of the largest statue of Hampi, and is situated enroute Kamalapura.</div>
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The lord Narasimha is seen sitting on a seven headed serpent</div>
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One of the most affected statue during the Mughal invasion is the statue of Ugra Narasimha where one can see the chopped hand of the lord.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj5zi7ylG-GeMovIHNpvJXD0gNhk7moJhfJtL9s9XH0yUwALBc8VFsynNAELM4PJw2bdgZuY5hww0RLAjVS6qidYFkAIZIlgjYU1XFfRuwHl7pbE6Yp1Vm-Fa6TwqHaDVPnUtdDShFA8FW/s1600/Narasimha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj5zi7ylG-GeMovIHNpvJXD0gNhk7moJhfJtL9s9XH0yUwALBc8VFsynNAELM4PJw2bdgZuY5hww0RLAjVS6qidYFkAIZIlgjYU1XFfRuwHl7pbE6Yp1Vm-Fa6TwqHaDVPnUtdDShFA8FW/s1600/Narasimha.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The most unique feature of the statue is the bulging eyes of Narasimha. The large round protruding eyes provides the statue with an exceptional look. Though the statue of Lakshmi is no longer sitting on the lap of Narasimha, one can imagine the beauty of the complete statue in its original undamaged form.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To give rest to the tired legs and fill the growling stomachs, we reached the bazaar area of Hampi for lunch. The lunch was pretty costly (might be because of the foreign tourists).</span></div>
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By then, evening had set in, and it was time for the sun to set. Many people were heading to Hemakuta hills to watch the sunset. We were no exceptions :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6lmNFE0gTGHjKcF-EZXr9dNBZkSAfyyUE-M4IY7wMvWXG0_2Td8iOdNJaZumrw9Dl4TpEuHQVoJdaZ6lhOobwSAYLa3GDAfB8xgJXeegNWR5GByFPREdrFyLQdgcGxW-yw4_JXQUcE-N/s1600/hemakuta-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6lmNFE0gTGHjKcF-EZXr9dNBZkSAfyyUE-M4IY7wMvWXG0_2Td8iOdNJaZumrw9Dl4TpEuHQVoJdaZ6lhOobwSAYLa3GDAfB8xgJXeegNWR5GByFPREdrFyLQdgcGxW-yw4_JXQUcE-N/s1600/hemakuta-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHIKfbFhMPvyd2ibRi_RIBK3UO_C5rOQmcg9EtslbVfA_XlWl2-RWo7HgbWGG5p3Ur7ZqTShyVOMRCUcPjit2bnrzfknQTTRoL7qImMuYBDlS5Ilb5ynAhwDieZ3L8GcuAeeDfAdUu0wL5/s1600/Sunset-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHIKfbFhMPvyd2ibRi_RIBK3UO_C5rOQmcg9EtslbVfA_XlWl2-RWo7HgbWGG5p3Ur7ZqTShyVOMRCUcPjit2bnrzfknQTTRoL7qImMuYBDlS5Ilb5ynAhwDieZ3L8GcuAeeDfAdUu0wL5/s1600/Sunset-3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Sunset through the pillars</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnNnqjGeQjbSVSDArdv-a5tmCCwzuCpABCNrEv3dMgP5gcH13TniwE9-7cJajsVWopA5Qndm2TD2w5hRH9COsAA0L1sjZ45QnPEdRS204x9ASutoplGQ5j2o1juNF5-TNqQSQZHHvqI9l/s1600/Temple-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnNnqjGeQjbSVSDArdv-a5tmCCwzuCpABCNrEv3dMgP5gcH13TniwE9-7cJajsVWopA5Qndm2TD2w5hRH9COsAA0L1sjZ45QnPEdRS204x9ASutoplGQ5j2o1juNF5-TNqQSQZHHvqI9l/s1600/Temple-5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hanumantharaya swamy temple : The Hanuman temple on top of the Hemakuta hills is one of the best place to witness sunset and is a very popular subject for the photographs. This monument has been captured by innumerable photographers and is featured in many photography exhibitions and salons.</div>
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I also got a chance to meet Mr. Shivashankar Banagar, who is a famous photographer from Hospet. In the process, we got to learn more about Hampi and the lighting conditions of the area from him.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LnU66lUHReSd1aZ_FW8p06Tyy6eGpt99DJJlynEt1BjOTZL-AlOqOdyUzUPyLq1VG9b4uH7NYyNHO3IGOOgrPK-PCSm4_tDAoSxV1w50q1xmlsZDxp1q5pNAlk3G8GHVPdRQadAPlUpV/s1600/Sunset-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LnU66lUHReSd1aZ_FW8p06Tyy6eGpt99DJJlynEt1BjOTZL-AlOqOdyUzUPyLq1VG9b4uH7NYyNHO3IGOOgrPK-PCSm4_tDAoSxV1w50q1xmlsZDxp1q5pNAlk3G8GHVPdRQadAPlUpV/s1600/Sunset-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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The beautiful array of clouds forming a set of golden stripes along the group of temples was a beautiful sight to watch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIc7SaVcJYxgRoKYHKo0zlFaWXZ8Nq0jvR4vTLpCUFBUVSjBnAzok4LlfIrpaKDBbcALWqKlaft-sWPtUv2Bl60K7AtEhm8_QZLjZ9Ypv6tx4bNctBYxObT3R-fIE7WuKyvKfAUYdXx9K/s1600/Temple-3-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIc7SaVcJYxgRoKYHKo0zlFaWXZ8Nq0jvR4vTLpCUFBUVSjBnAzok4LlfIrpaKDBbcALWqKlaft-sWPtUv2Bl60K7AtEhm8_QZLjZ9Ypv6tx4bNctBYxObT3R-fIE7WuKyvKfAUYdXx9K/s1600/Temple-3-4.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5EKN0ZiDoycS2Hs1r4RM1J1Qd53qmLkt2BM8uR4u_AakqXC7VLTmATTuPF74lBrqWPELBi0fg0PpwbOF_Melv72XUtLVJbu38DkBhHAex12EqanfJaiHdDUPIJKYKOiEAkHr3OkK5ygyX/s1600/Temple-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5EKN0ZiDoycS2Hs1r4RM1J1Qd53qmLkt2BM8uR4u_AakqXC7VLTmATTuPF74lBrqWPELBi0fg0PpwbOF_Melv72XUtLVJbu38DkBhHAex12EqanfJaiHdDUPIJKYKOiEAkHr3OkK5ygyX/s1600/Temple-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Virupaksha temple at Night</div>
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We then visited the Virupaksha temple to have a divine darshan of Lord Virupaksha and Goddess Pampa. The temple was almost on the verge of closing and we made it in time. After having a holy darshan, we witnessed a mind blowing performance of fire dance by a foreign couple in the temple premises.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLgfmPmruRT1Ity-SgIYFtcxrs2O1hRboFHh94_MrmVQe8hYKQaascZIGXsG6s_XDP5HJYjPbOpotGd0h2xuq8bkABsS-r7PdpTjBoSa7J5deadPM_UO4Lh4JrcyOgtXmBzpA2nTNwrrd/s1600/Temple-at-night-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLgfmPmruRT1Ity-SgIYFtcxrs2O1hRboFHh94_MrmVQe8hYKQaascZIGXsG6s_XDP5HJYjPbOpotGd0h2xuq8bkABsS-r7PdpTjBoSa7J5deadPM_UO4Lh4JrcyOgtXmBzpA2nTNwrrd/s640/Temple-at-night-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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These couple perform the dangerous art to raise funds, and then use those funds for the betterment of under privileged children of the area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGJ_lVzPOs-t4DvqdY5V1U71PU7BGDMf_uq4rH_ToU11ezB3BsgPXE_wvxaWn04ONrVbCiIjZx5K0BJitTSMCScLuCDTCiDBcWmNH5d3fVyADz1sbf0Kw5LUrd3y2M02GBzqvDX_YbyqC/s1600/shop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGJ_lVzPOs-t4DvqdY5V1U71PU7BGDMf_uq4rH_ToU11ezB3BsgPXE_wvxaWn04ONrVbCiIjZx5K0BJitTSMCScLuCDTCiDBcWmNH5d3fVyADz1sbf0Kw5LUrd3y2M02GBzqvDX_YbyqC/s1600/shop.jpg" /></a></div>
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One of the many shops in Hampi<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOONTeAU3vXFgoFxi_hd-_K47N5rrkYQzkTz-rAVYiTHzPQFz4KWNmvjnDGUJB3BRH5s9speXHgr363_5PDSVIfQsbSYi8n3uC-WaRlDqNBSBYjEpp9H8XxwT7no0TZHKtQ_m-GNQeQBzB/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOONTeAU3vXFgoFxi_hd-_K47N5rrkYQzkTz-rAVYiTHzPQFz4KWNmvjnDGUJB3BRH5s9speXHgr363_5PDSVIfQsbSYi8n3uC-WaRlDqNBSBYjEpp9H8XxwT7no0TZHKtQ_m-GNQeQBzB/s1600/6.jpg" /></a></div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture courtesy : Venki</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Picture courtesy : Venki</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2m-X5Tp4dm5g9mKTFffdmeq-VcYmdUQDbXHsbyAUme_mQVcgPI7l1vy20skQXx1A6vAC0cpLzC9yEcYP2x94KYrRGztq9GZp6s1fwx10RVug2WFTyGo8kJTIgf9d_9CpwtLBPR8-xorsh/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2m-X5Tp4dm5g9mKTFffdmeq-VcYmdUQDbXHsbyAUme_mQVcgPI7l1vy20skQXx1A6vAC0cpLzC9yEcYP2x94KYrRGztq9GZp6s1fwx10RVug2WFTyGo8kJTIgf9d_9CpwtLBPR8-xorsh/s1600/9.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Picture courtesy : Venki</i></span><br />
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The dinner was consumed in no time, and we hit the bed to earn a well deserving sleep after a very tiring but fruitful day.<br />
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<b style="color: #93c47d; font-size: x-large;">Day 2 : </b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(5th March , 2016)</i></span></div>
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Early in the morning, we set off to climb the Matanga hill. We had heard that this was one of the best places in Hampi to see the sunrise. A straight road from the Virupaksha temple leads to the Hampi police station. This is the gateway to Matanga hill, and one can see hill right opposite to the police station. We parked our bicycles in front of the police station and then started to climb the hill. The hill is a gradual ascent amidst rocks and small patches of shrub forests. </div>
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It is a good 20-30 mins climb to the top of the hill, and is not that difficult. Since the area is home to few Bears and Leopards (as per the locals), it is wise to carry a powerful torch and go in groups.</div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: large;"><b>Matanga Hill :</b></span></div>
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Probably Matunga Hill is the most talked about hill in Hampi. May be because of its central location or the sunset/sunrise view associated with it, this hill commands a special attraction.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6vXjJbaq5V1Ppa7HOEhzrAbTZlS8RnQcjFrQ7DTueay1nG74JP91uSf9QClx2MyKo8a86k6JC1goFwD5kHe5FzHLLZQmNrW9wM_YgnkNFybC9zjgQ6LHn_pIPlsOUd_Yqm1Awbcszf23/s1600/sunrise-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6vXjJbaq5V1Ppa7HOEhzrAbTZlS8RnQcjFrQ7DTueay1nG74JP91uSf9QClx2MyKo8a86k6JC1goFwD5kHe5FzHLLZQmNrW9wM_YgnkNFybC9zjgQ6LHn_pIPlsOUd_Yqm1Awbcszf23/s1600/sunrise-3.jpg" /></a></div>
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The view from the top is mesmerizing, especially from the eastern side, you get to see the aerial view of the Achyuta Raya’s Temple complex; at south, the cart trail and Turthu Canal winding through the banana plantations; at north the chain of hills and the river that flows along it's ridges; at west the Hampi settlement with the tower of Virupaksha Temple dominating.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWEMveTs1_G2shR1xd_I7w_kGwSUL963K94gjABSxAPb7sane99dW7S_sUmu-QArYzpZVwa9GkL7lgAfbhR-5eDTC-hrM3q64GFT_OWhN6qgvb55CETTZ6tGr8lo7hyphenhyphencNEdIPNzXtFjvB/s1600/sunrise-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWEMveTs1_G2shR1xd_I7w_kGwSUL963K94gjABSxAPb7sane99dW7S_sUmu-QArYzpZVwa9GkL7lgAfbhR-5eDTC-hrM3q64GFT_OWhN6qgvb55CETTZ6tGr8lo7hyphenhyphencNEdIPNzXtFjvB/s1600/sunrise-5.jpg" /></a></div>
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The rooftop of the Veerabhadra Temple at the summit is the ideal place to view the sunrise and sunset of Hampi. Avoid climbing the hill during the hot part of the day. However it doesnt matter if you have already used to the hot climate of Hampi.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26WfD0Xn5yqhm5S5JXlAHZ4ldhwDxazDZ1aae4rR0mXobqUONujYzrrICSoYp5592iEoaSUlM59h0mfUvBaCISo8bgXLZAn0rDlbmG7zIWjqz8HAbBcEzAoz0bgEOxhT40_d2T6YRAHPN/s1600/krishna_temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26WfD0Xn5yqhm5S5JXlAHZ4ldhwDxazDZ1aae4rR0mXobqUONujYzrrICSoYp5592iEoaSUlM59h0mfUvBaCISo8bgXLZAn0rDlbmG7zIWjqz8HAbBcEzAoz0bgEOxhT40_d2T6YRAHPN/s1600/krishna_temple.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you turn back, one can see the temple complexes of Krishna temple (above) and the Virupaksha temple (below) towards the West.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ncWBnb1hW4rgPWecuWlmZMlhHctMLccrE0f6cs8lZ5M9pvHCtPagZnBPquN-lNK4SynA5FphxGKIxJYWZ1Qya17OVEQ7V210rPwBZWB4D7r4TZ4sYENM_9u9LVIJji1WJZW6E2ffka_e/s1600/Temple-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ncWBnb1hW4rgPWecuWlmZMlhHctMLccrE0f6cs8lZ5M9pvHCtPagZnBPquN-lNK4SynA5FphxGKIxJYWZ1Qya17OVEQ7V210rPwBZWB4D7r4TZ4sYENM_9u9LVIJji1WJZW6E2ffka_e/s1600/Temple-13.jpg" /></a></div>
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The view to the north of the hill offers a splendid view of the Tungabhadra river.</div>
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The descent was much easier than the ascent and also the time taken was less. Within no time, we were at the base of the hill and in the premises of the ancient Achyutaraya temple.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: large;">Achyutaraya temple :</span></b></div>
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Achyuta Raya Temple is one of the magnificent and major temples of Hampi. Built during the Vijayanagara kingdom, this temple stands as an exemplary example of Vijayanagara style of architecture. </div>
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The temple is located between the Gandhamadana and Matanga hills. It is one of the last grand creations of the Vijayanagara dynasty before the fall of the great empire.<br />
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Pillars and Prakara </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture courtesy : Venki</span></i></div>
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We then moved towards the home stay, took bath , had a quick & delicious breakfast and then set off towards Vijaya Vittala temple.</div>
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A small road towards the left of the Hampi police station takes us to the river bank. Walking along the river bank takes us to Vijaya vittala temple. There are many temples enroute, among which the deities of Kodandarama swamy temple and the Yantrodharaka Hanuman temple are still worshipped.</div>
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A small broken boat lying on the banks of the river</div>
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A circular shaped boat (called Coracle , in Kannada, Theppa) is used to cross the river. On an average a coracle takes about 6-8 people.<br />
Coracle ride can be taken from Kodandarama temple.<br />
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Coracles at Tungabhadra</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Picture courtesy : Venki</i></span></div>
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Priest at Kodandarama temple</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture courtesy : Venki</span></i></div>
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On the way to the main temple, one can see many relics and ruins of the erstwhile Vijayanagara kingdom.<br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: large;"><b>Stone Chariot :</b></span></div>
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Arguably this the most famous structure in the history of Karnataka. The replica of this epic structure has been featured in many travel expos across the globe. A sheer architectural excellence has given a grand product which has in turn become one of the most pride possession of the state.</div>
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The "Stone Chariot", as it is often referred is the flagship tourist attraction of Hampi. This is not a chariot ,as the name suggests, rather a shrine built like a chariot. This is located inside the Vittala Temple campus.<br />
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It is believed that the idea for the construction of the chariot dates back to the time when King Krishnadevaraya saw the famous stone chariot at the Konark Sun Temple in Odissa while waging war on the eastern state.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: large;">Vijaya Vittala temple :</span></b><br />
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As the epicenter of Hampi's attractions, Vittala Temple is the most extravagant architectural showpiece of Hampi. The temple is built in the form of a grand campus with compound wall and gateway towers. There are many halls, pavilions and temples located inside this campus.<br />
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The main attraction of this temple is 56 musical pillars when tapped gently on these pillars, they produce musical sounds.<br />
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These pillars are popularly known as Musical Pillars as the saptaswara of 'Sarigamapadani' can be heard. Though, now it is prohibited for the visitors to tap on them.<br />
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Each temple and mantapam has innumerable sculptures engraved on it.<br />
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The above temple is dedicated to Rani Chinnambika, who was one of the wives of Sri Krishnadevaraya.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Picture courtsey : Venki</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Picture courtesy : Venki</i></span></div>
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By the time we visited this place, the sun was on top of our heads. As a result, the lighting was a bit harsh. If you are a keen photographer, then visiting this place early in the morning must be in your to-do list.<br />
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Summer holidays</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture courtesy : Venki</span></i></div>
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Enroute Hampi, we savoured ice-creams , tender coconut , lime sodas etc., to quench our thirst, but still the hot sun had an upper hand over us :)</div>
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After photographing the architectures, it was time for us to shoot the sunset again. We had an option to either visit Malyavantha or stick back to Hemakuta. Since time was short, we decided to stay back at Hemakuta.</div>
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I also met Mr. Pompayya Malemath, who is a very famous wildlife photographer , passionate birder and a conservationist.<br />
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We then packed our bags and set off to Hospet, to board the bus back to Bangalore.</div>
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After an amazing session of photography and a great travel with like minded people, our journey came to an end. </div>
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The amazing architecture of Hampi will always be etched in the back of our minds. This reminds us the historical grandeur that our state had during the golden era of Vijayanagara kingdom.</div>
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It is a pity to watch the condition of the present day monuments , which makes us think how cruel the wars could be. The rich Vijayanagara kingdom which was once filled with Gold, Diamonds and Jewels is now nothing but a dusted town of only rocks and ruins. Currently, the rich glory has to be felt only in the historical books.</div>
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We should help in conserving the remaining monuments, and preserve the precious structures. They will always be a pride not only of of our state but also history of mankind, and sing the architectural glory of the Vijayanagara kingdom.</div>
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Photography gears : Nikon D7100 , Tokina 11-16, Nikon 18-105mm</div>
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I thank my uncle (H.Satish) for helping me out in planning the trip and tips on photography.</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><u>Tips for travelers / tourists</u></b></span></div>
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<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Responsible tourism has to be cultivated in the mindset of people. Please do not write your names on the walls of the protected monument and litter the place .</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">As I always say, refrain from throwing plastic.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Carry plenty of water and fruits, as the hot sun dehydrates you. Summers are very hot.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Most of the temples are not functional, so do not expect any pooja there.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Plenty of home stays and restaurants are available near the Virupaksha temple at a nominal cost.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">The rental services of two-wheelers are stopped. Either you have to rent a bicycle or travel by the local autos or get your own private vehicle.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Entry tickets are applicable at the Vijaya vittala temple and Lotus Mahal. It costs Rs. 10/- for an Indian and Rs. 250/- for a foriegn national (when we visited, it may be revised) </span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Vijaya vittala temple can be accessed by two ways : </span></i></li>
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<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Virupaksha temple : A 1km ride till the police station/hampi bazar and a 2km walk from there.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Kamalapura : Kamalapura is around 5kms from Hampi, and the Vijaya vittala temple is further few kms from there. Bus/auto is available </span></i></li>
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<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">There are no many direct buses from Bangalore to Hampi. Nearest place would be Hospet(12 kms from Hampi) which is well connected by trains also, and from there you can travel by either shared auto / local buses.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">For photographers : Minimum of 3 days are required based on lighting conditions. Tripods are not allowed in most of the places.</span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Daroji bear sanctuary can also be a part of your tour itenary. It is around 20 kms from Hampi.</span></i></li>
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Hope you have enjoyed the virtual visit to the royal capital of the Vijayanagara kingdom.</div>
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Thank you</div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-62914550619729448502016-01-05T09:59:00.000+05:302016-01-05T10:00:29.898+05:30A sojourn in the Kumaon and Garhwal Himalayas : Ancient Adi Badri - (Part 10)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>Day 12 - Oct 13th , 2015 </u></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The lodge (Krishna Palace) where we stayed the previous night at Karnaprayag, was on the banks of Pindar river, and very close to the confluence point of the two rivers. The sound of the gushing water of Pindar river was like a lion's roar. </span><br />
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Pindar river</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Confluence point of Alaknanda and Pindar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On the way back to Nainital from Karnaprayag, we stopped at a place called Adi Badri.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Adi Badri , the first temple complex among the Sapta Badri temples, is an ancient shrine dedicated to Vishnu. It is located in the hill ranges 17 kilometres, beyond Karnaprayag.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">According to tradition, Jagadguru Sri Adi Shankaracharya is attributed as builder of all the temples.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In ancient times, when approach to the main shrine of Badrinath was closed due to bad weather conditions, pilgrims worshipped Vishnu at this temple.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are many temples in the complex at Adi Badri, where gods such as Surya , Kubera , Kali , Ganesh , Shiva etc are worshipped.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We then proceeded to Nainital, which was the last leg of our journey.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We reached Nainital by 5.30 PM, met Mr. Anup Sah at his residence, and then proceeded to Kathgodam to catch the Ranikhet express.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day 13 - Oct 14th , 2015</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We alighted at Delhi by 4.30 AM . Myself , Ambika and Akshay proceeded to IG airport to board the return flight to Bangalore, which was scheduled to depart at 8.15AM.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The other members of our team, stayed in Delhi for 2 more days, as they desired to visit Agra and a local</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> tour of Delhi, before they departed to Bangalore.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>Getting there ...</u></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>By air</b>:</span> Jolly Grant airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport( 190Km from Karnaprayag).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>By rail:</b> </span>Haridwar railway station, around 200Km from Karnaprayag </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">By road:</span></b> You can reach Adi Badri from Dehradun , Nainital , Haridwar or Rishikesh. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Route to Adi Badri</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Dehradun – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag - Adi Badri</span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) a) Nainital - Almora – Dwarahat – Gairsain – Karnaprayag </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> b) Nainital – Almora – Kausani – Gwaldham – Tharali – Karnaprayag – Adi Badri</span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<b style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>Our Route</u></b><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Karnaprayag - Adi Badri - Ranikhet - Nainital - Kathgodam</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">This marks the end of my 10 series blog, and I really thank our team for the company. Special thanks to </span><b><span style="color: #f1c232;">Satish uncle</span></b><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"> for making all the arrangements and </span><b><span style="color: #f1c232;">Sandeep</span></b><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"> , our driver who accompanied us in the tour.</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">Sandeep</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><u>Equipments</u></i></b></span></span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><u> that I have used </u></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Nikon D7100</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Nikon 200-500mm F/5.6 VR lens</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Nikon 18-105mm VR lens</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Nikon 24-120mm F/4 VR lens</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Tamron 90mm F/2.8 VC lens</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Tokina 11-16mm F/2.8 ATX-II lens</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Aputure timer remote control</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. Benro A300FN0 Tripod</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f6b26b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>I hope you enjoyed all the blog posts in the Himalayan series. Thank you for your wonderful time and patience !!</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: inherit;"><i>Thank you !!!</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_20.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nikklT09Btc7VsdEHyu-wlOntULIJB3R-3LTfIKcNNu_Tdz_QcrwNEcxEmvbui8f17g2Y_Dul-r8jhmClVapdEZdyI4aqv_J8ZF-2NE3gT14fZdsF_LPkSAEPR8lfg7xtqpe45AxQlq0/s1600/green-left.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_20.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 9 - Tungnath</span></a></b></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-17438053497539288742016-01-05T09:57:00.000+05:302016-01-05T09:57:14.341+05:30A sojourn in the Kumaon and Garhwal Himalayas : Tranquil Tungnath - A short Himalayan trek to the highest Shiva temple in the world - (Part 9)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day 11 - Oct 12th , 2014</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started our trek by 9.30 AM from the base point at Chopta. The melodious bells at the entrance and the rhododendron path gave the trail a divine touch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Most of the journey is through the Rhododendron forests, and if you are in the right season, you would be surrounded by Buransh (local name for Rhododendron).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tunganath, one of the auspicious ‘Panch Kedars’ is cradled amid the lofty snow wrapped peaks of Uttarakhand. It draws thousands of pious pilgrims who wish to feel the deep spirituality that pervades the ambience of this truly sacred Shiva temple.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The trek is a gradual ascent with a well defined path. There is no much strain to the trekkers, as the route is clear with a plain road.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtt7lIBZaNtG83t7cMZXADN3BgdhlTYT8EhPtrP0wnTlqx71TfELNjv1Ot3f-XLdvuCQskMqRFKaQaDKY8KvWXZMvrXn6zft53QJt8V74D7tAwnK1AROJbe6i8qICfCeNI9cNe5Y3Sk1VV/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtt7lIBZaNtG83t7cMZXADN3BgdhlTYT8EhPtrP0wnTlqx71TfELNjv1Ot3f-XLdvuCQskMqRFKaQaDKY8KvWXZMvrXn6zft53QJt8V74D7tAwnK1AROJbe6i8qICfCeNI9cNe5Y3Sk1VV/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The initial point of trek to the famous Tungnath Temple, Chopta boasts of enchanting views of the Himalayas with plentiful flora and fauna to admire. Being an unspoiled and non-commercialized location, it has endowed Chopta with the bliss of beautiful meadows and excellent trekking trails throughout the year.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgRCHaQdsKdLOGP-f3TaDS9fkFhg4iUdk8kr5XQfwAXh8akJhVk0fhSMtx70qBgXnrZGasXIIm-VbNkE1SCbSitDkLEjAs_uoCtHn_GoQ6riE_Zu4tTfI-4MXEqnxWSSQw-XFoDEcZvUjJ/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgRCHaQdsKdLOGP-f3TaDS9fkFhg4iUdk8kr5XQfwAXh8akJhVk0fhSMtx70qBgXnrZGasXIIm-VbNkE1SCbSitDkLEjAs_uoCtHn_GoQ6riE_Zu4tTfI-4MXEqnxWSSQw-XFoDEcZvUjJ/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ambika and Sandeep trekking</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mules are available at Chopta for people who cannot trek.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tungnath trek is short and easy trek in the Himalayan region, which runs parallel to the sky-scraping Himalayan Treks. During this hiking, one can enjoy clear view of majestic peaks of Panchchuli, Nanda Devi, Nilkanth and Kedarnath. Chopta gives a picturesque view of the Himalayas. In the early spring the Rhododendron forest glow red as the flowers bloom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During the start of the trek, the weather was very clear and I was hoping to see the majestic mountains. However, the weather changed drastically and the clouds filled the valley.</span><br />
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Satish uncle and Akshay</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The major attractions of this trek are the Tungnath Temple and the Chandrashila peak, which provides a breathtaking 360 degree view of the valleys below.</span><br />
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Group taking a break</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The fog covered the whole valley, and the visibility was too low.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The invisible route made the trek exciting, as we did not know what was ahead of us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The thick forest slowly unveils sunbathed meadows which sprawl upto the horizon blending into blue valleys and snow peaks. The air is scented with multi-fragrant flowers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One can spot the Himalayan Pika, which can be seen on the way to Tungnath.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Himalayan pika is a species of small mammal in the pika family, Ochotonidae. It is found at high altitudes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Few tea shops on the way are a good source of refreshment to the pilgrims.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The narrow path is higher than the surrounding ground level. It is neatly laid with jagged rocks which have lost their sharp edge, being used by pilgrims and nature-lovers for ages.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> It is the highest temple of Lord Shiva perched at an astounding elevation of 3,680mts above sea level.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Magnificent in its architecture and artistic structure, Tungnath Temple is considered to be more than 1000 years old. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and few other idols of Goddess Parvati and other gods can be seen in the vicinity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This sacred temple was discovered by Adi Shankaracharya and one can see the idol of Jagadguru inside the sanctum.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The mythological background of Tungnath Temple is associated with the epic Mahabharata. Vyas Rishi told the Pandavas that they were guilty of killing their own brothers in the war, and their sins would be expiated only if Lord Shiva pardoned them. Pandavas began to search Lord Shiva in the Himalayas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In order to escape from the Pandavas, Lord Shiva disguised himself as a bull and took refuge underground. The places where the parts of the bull were found are now renowned Shiva temples. Tungnath Temple is the place where his hands (bahu) were supposedly seen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whereas, the hind part of the bull is believed to be Kedarnath.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This highest temple of Lord Shiva is ironically the easiest one to achieve. Tungnath Temple can be reached by an easy but steep trek of 4km commencing from Chopta (2700mts). The region receives heavy snowfall during winters making Tungnath temple tough to access.</span><br />
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From the sanctum</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another 1.5 km steep trek take you to Chandrashila summit which offers a majestic view of snow clad Himalayan peaks including Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FaCaYzPHF8a9FJbY0BlYrBkaShC6UphRP2T82fHc3jRjjiNu44UmjA4zqx0bPiWeMP3F-YsEz2uV24SUZ8O6S8ZYSkKHE7DEx_qevWNxlTgOuLM-SNrjF8HWkeN7AJCpRtfaqOtOblK-/s1600/36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FaCaYzPHF8a9FJbY0BlYrBkaShC6UphRP2T82fHc3jRjjiNu44UmjA4zqx0bPiWeMP3F-YsEz2uV24SUZ8O6S8ZYSkKHE7DEx_qevWNxlTgOuLM-SNrjF8HWkeN7AJCpRtfaqOtOblK-/s640/36.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While descending, we saw a Monal pheasant that flew in front of us. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Within no time, we descended the hill and reached Chopta by 3.30 PM.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We then departed Chopta, and headed to Karnaprayag for a night halt. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Important Information</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) When it gets windy , it is very chilly and cold out there. So always take some jackets or woolens with you. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In winters it is very cold , hence warm woolens, jackets and thermals are necessary.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) Lodges are open only till November. If you plan to camp or stay beyond November, do take local guidance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3) For camping, permission needs to be taken from Forest department. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4) There is no electricity at Chopta, Tunganath.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5) For photographers, October till mid November is the best season, when the skies are clear and peaks shine. But the weather cannot be predicted in Himalayas, as we faced clouds and rains in October also.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6) During monsoon months it rains heavily , so be adequately geared (Raincoats, boots, woolens). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7) There are porters and mules available at Chopta. They usually charge 300/- to 400/- Rs for a mule one way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8) Trekking distance, one way : Tungnath is 4 kms and Chandrashila peak is 5.5 kms</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9) Please do not litter the area. It is a bio diversity hotspot, an ecologically sensitive area and moreover a holy land of Lord Shiva.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10) Pooja items are available near the temple premises.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Getting there ...</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By Road : Chopta is well connected with many places like Gopeshwar , Chamoli , Rudraprayag , Almora , Bageshwar</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By Rail : Nearest railhead is Rishikesh (165 kms)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Our Route ...</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chopta - Rudraprayag - Gauchar - Karnaprayag</span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Next Pitstop -> Karnaprayag</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_39.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nikklT09Btc7VsdEHyu-wlOntULIJB3R-3LTfIKcNNu_Tdz_QcrwNEcxEmvbui8f17g2Y_Dul-r8jhmClVapdEZdyI4aqv_J8ZF-2NE3gT14fZdsF_LPkSAEPR8lfg7xtqpe45AxQlq0/s1600/green-left.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_86.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jpj8D34tNLlB9xZQ0-Paf8I9SWa1aS10u7DTA0208T9mKfrb7KAfj-qKwFh84SCQWQv_teYs1hitxs4H6_afmjyNkl2iP5s0ROV39aWizhJRVJq9qaLQLCczRYKtI6352fw8nbJrbMOf/s1600/green-right.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_39.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 8 - Chopta</span></a></b></span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_86.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 10 - Adi Badri</span></a></b></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-61522883299736967192016-01-05T09:53:00.000+05:302016-01-11T15:40:39.988+05:30A sojourn in the Kumaon and Garhwal Himalayas : Captivating Chopta - The bird watcher's paradise (Part 8)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day 10 - Oct 11th , 2014</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We reached Chopta the previous night, and stayed in a private homestay at Bhulkan run by Mr. Shishupal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It has basic facilities, but is situated at a mind blowing location. The forests around it, are home to many endemic birds and animals of the Himalayan range.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Note : This blog mainly focusses on the Flora and Fauna present in the region.</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaubtdqoCB2RhK2XSDYmNeZg1ScDiTNDpbHVYvvHR6f9Ha3s-JJcpT0LAe3xRTqnBDm-7n7XISuCxjPvBu0oh2xCgdhJegSR7hzJR9bptgr4FC2bwJnoCkK1kEFKLS00iDkHQXZlWy5gX/s1600/bhulkan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaubtdqoCB2RhK2XSDYmNeZg1ScDiTNDpbHVYvvHR6f9Ha3s-JJcpT0LAe3xRTqnBDm-7n7XISuCxjPvBu0oh2xCgdhJegSR7hzJR9bptgr4FC2bwJnoCkK1kEFKLS00iDkHQXZlWy5gX/s640/bhulkan.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Early in the morning, we heard the calls of the Monal pheasant, and followed it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After walking for some distance, we could see the Himalayan Tahrs crossing the road. It was so quick, that in two jumps it was in the cliffs below.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Himalayan Tahr :</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus) is a large ungulate native to the Himalayas in southern Tibet, northern India and Nepal. It is listed as Near Threatened by IUCN, as the population is declining due to hunting and habitat loss.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Results of an analysis indicate that the Himalayan tahr is associated with wild goat.</i></span><br />
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A young female Tahr</div>
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Male followed by two females</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While shooting the Tahrs, we heard the calls of the Monal again, and I spotted few female Monal pheasants that had perched on a rock ahead of us. We approached carefully, and Satish uncle spotted the male bird which was nearby.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Seeing a Monal was a dream come true experience, as it is highly endemic , elusive and colorful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I strongly believe that this bird was created when God spilled his color palette on the canvas.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Himalayan Monal</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The Himalayan monal (Lophophorus impejanus), also known as the impeyan monal, impeyan pheasant, is a bird in the pheasant family, Phasianidae. It is the national bird of Nepal, where it is known as danphe, and state bird of Uttarakhand India, where it is known as monal.</i></span><br />
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Monal Pheasant - Female </div>
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Monal Pheasant - Female </div>
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Monal Pheasant - Female </div>
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Monal Pheasant - Female </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Monal Pheasant - male</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The very sight and photograph of this bird was worth the whole trip. Such vibrancy in one creature is hard to imagine !!</span></div>
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Mistle thrush</div>
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Coal tit ?</div>
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Himalayan queen frittilary</div>
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Variegated Laughing Thrush</div>
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Yellow throated marten</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Green backed tit</div>
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Whistling thrush</div>
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Wild flower</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FPpWsZ79tFHHG2IMd0XZimPKUd3d9tpvhyphenhyphenXkp9CASX_gWRjawCgOp_N4iyMbQRVS7zaBl10ghyj2H5nr_W1hoQ3VrpWegn9xVRf_r4CYncfWPZBRs2RmYbNVna9BbCPlQw3Hqs6PHSEg/s1600/woodpecker-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FPpWsZ79tFHHG2IMd0XZimPKUd3d9tpvhyphenhyphenXkp9CASX_gWRjawCgOp_N4iyMbQRVS7zaBl10ghyj2H5nr_W1hoQ3VrpWegn9xVRf_r4CYncfWPZBRs2RmYbNVna9BbCPlQw3Hqs6PHSEg/s640/woodpecker-2.jpg" width="414" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Scaly bellied woodpecker</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Later in the day, we all headed to Dugalbitta. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are few nature camps which are present in Dugalbitta, a destination which is very near to Chopta. Dugalbitta is situated between thick forests, and is a good place to watch birds.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is a very silent offbeat location to spend time with Nature, and a walk on the bugyals makes this a place to yearn for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A refreshing tea in a small Chai shop rejuvenated our mind , body and soul. This gave me more energy to hold my 500mm lens.</span></div>
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Grey bushchat</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKavxHBRsP2Dom9Tl_cDvJ4RjfT_3aJvLrSFxp7eu4LthNc4quXKCTK_ebAu8VEPJMUawwyvMTzTbuGe8M-16_ZXS3NhJp0Q61U9Pkb7FUchH_ICsZT4IW7mE-8-oayBYHeMy0TL-C3mO8/s1600/grey-headed-bushchat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKavxHBRsP2Dom9Tl_cDvJ4RjfT_3aJvLrSFxp7eu4LthNc4quXKCTK_ebAu8VEPJMUawwyvMTzTbuGe8M-16_ZXS3NhJp0Q61U9Pkb7FUchH_ICsZT4IW7mE-8-oayBYHeMy0TL-C3mO8/s640/grey-headed-bushchat.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Grey Bushchat with flies around</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzdmxtkUhzh45VcrTwJahyphenhyphenPvzubBJ2Av1RmIeCrwIqcU2wYGztMwVH-68NDeqYudbWnqGz394aqo9R0UWD3DvRFjYS18tsXmFfg25tFsGKGstACfMIABBcTF-MhJdQ9TMW6QA4CThT3-V/s1600/sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzdmxtkUhzh45VcrTwJahyphenhyphenPvzubBJ2Av1RmIeCrwIqcU2wYGztMwVH-68NDeqYudbWnqGz394aqo9R0UWD3DvRFjYS18tsXmFfg25tFsGKGstACfMIABBcTF-MhJdQ9TMW6QA4CThT3-V/s640/sunset.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Clouds during sunset</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbLAHkcwoo864-HshCzvvk3YM8x6aR5n7SKp8t4mU0ITbZgEBVWZKVywqhCwPuTxc1QW6rfQaWSPWI122MmEOdQLtW_3nNEdb4QJzEXd3tJy7NwEnZ2px4oeqXrSW3nYBGzbVBIddaMWVd/s1600/evening-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbLAHkcwoo864-HshCzvvk3YM8x6aR5n7SKp8t4mU0ITbZgEBVWZKVywqhCwPuTxc1QW6rfQaWSPWI122MmEOdQLtW_3nNEdb4QJzEXd3tJy7NwEnZ2px4oeqXrSW3nYBGzbVBIddaMWVd/s640/evening-1.jpg" width="640" /></a>Dusk</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A day completely filled with Wildlife, was a breather for me after many days. Seeing many exotic species on a single day has carved an inscription in my mind forever.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Night sky photography:</u></b></span><br />
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F/2.8 , ISO 3200 , 30" sec , Tokina 11-16mm</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6OTKImY8HBsirl4NSU4u5xZGGlArlgqq1bZJbeDQBwE8rMUangfbIKwVtigilbxd2vl4a2Iu1KkeMyXc1xyQVz5SIzyr7ib2LpPIaJZ9eXOTi5pohMmWc3fbgleufd7ksUlezvlghIN4/s1600/milkyway-2-blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6OTKImY8HBsirl4NSU4u5xZGGlArlgqq1bZJbeDQBwE8rMUangfbIKwVtigilbxd2vl4a2Iu1KkeMyXc1xyQVz5SIzyr7ib2LpPIaJZ9eXOTi5pohMmWc3fbgleufd7ksUlezvlghIN4/s640/milkyway-2-blog.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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F/2.8 , ISO 3200 , 30" sec , Tokina 11-16mm</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6YQorI_edsXi6ev0IFG3kp_7VpmDfnd783VkDeOSbiy8hjbjqzaDSJsnI6RpvuwR3FfJCWnyqUvhvt5migwP9N-bIp5IyuJbc3MdEI69QEKeph9sBbUjvFgjeRpTWSYmtW4rdy5mA5Go/s1600/milkyway-3-blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6YQorI_edsXi6ev0IFG3kp_7VpmDfnd783VkDeOSbiy8hjbjqzaDSJsnI6RpvuwR3FfJCWnyqUvhvt5migwP9N-bIp5IyuJbc3MdEI69QEKeph9sBbUjvFgjeRpTWSYmtW4rdy5mA5Go/s640/milkyway-3-blog.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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F/2.8 , ISO 3200 , 30" sec , Tokina 11-16mm</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHkGjV8wCYJyIF7nOFLnW-4JVByUzMg7qJzU5eGFrl5klvdZmTVO0yS9ce4wFgGfbjFY_T_04-A6dk21Qu11jjTJ1HJ6ZQ_J1NMWK4DREGBFJoARqEUeNoUAFFGA_QR7YnLG7W13mjU1G/s1600/milkyway-4-1cpa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHkGjV8wCYJyIF7nOFLnW-4JVByUzMg7qJzU5eGFrl5klvdZmTVO0yS9ce4wFgGfbjFY_T_04-A6dk21Qu11jjTJ1HJ6ZQ_J1NMWK4DREGBFJoARqEUeNoUAFFGA_QR7YnLG7W13mjU1G/s640/milkyway-4-1cpa.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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F/2.8 , ISO 3200 , 30" sec , Tokina 11-16mm</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePZtTM3LxIZOfsE6AqaZ21uscvqvneh2258ja_pXWb06_Zslx9C8uAUzApWMD1J8UZNmg2k_7K_q1YRPlxWK7ujVn8-YApdYvWFaw7mcrlYVqwq0CrJjTXoc18G1_EEk0Ds_DVKJSoD4y/s1600/startrails-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePZtTM3LxIZOfsE6AqaZ21uscvqvneh2258ja_pXWb06_Zslx9C8uAUzApWMD1J8UZNmg2k_7K_q1YRPlxWK7ujVn8-YApdYvWFaw7mcrlYVqwq0CrJjTXoc18G1_EEk0Ds_DVKJSoD4y/s640/startrails-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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F/8 , ISO 160 , 30 mins , Tokina 11-16mm</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><b>Equipments used :</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nikon D7100 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nikon 200-500mm F/5.6 VR</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nikon 24-120mm F/4 VR </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tokina 11-16mm F/2.8 ATX-II</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Visit my post <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2013/09/from-here-to-eternity-exploration-of.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #ffd966;">"From here to Eternity - An exploration of the universe through my lens" </span></b></a>to know more about star trails / milkyway photography. </span></div>
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_4.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nikklT09Btc7VsdEHyu-wlOntULIJB3R-3LTfIKcNNu_Tdz_QcrwNEcxEmvbui8f17g2Y_Dul-r8jhmClVapdEZdyI4aqv_J8ZF-2NE3gT14fZdsF_LPkSAEPR8lfg7xtqpe45AxQlq0/s1600/green-left.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_20.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jpj8D34tNLlB9xZQ0-Paf8I9SWa1aS10u7DTA0208T9mKfrb7KAfj-qKwFh84SCQWQv_teYs1hitxs4H6_afmjyNkl2iP5s0ROV39aWizhJRVJq9qaLQLCczRYKtI6352fw8nbJrbMOf/s1600/green-right.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_4.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 7 - Badrinath</span></a></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_20.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 9 - Tungnath</span></a></b></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-14642598774393382462016-01-05T09:49:00.000+05:302016-01-13T17:50:42.896+05:30A sojourn in the Kumaon and Garhwal Himalayas : Breathtaking Badrinath and Mindblowing Mana - (Part 7)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day 9 - Oct 10th , 2015</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Joshimath (earlier known as Jyotirmath ) is one of the four ‘maths’ discovered by Adi Guru Shri Sankaracharya in the 8th century AD. The place is highly revered by Hindus and is an important pilgrimage centre in the country. Many devotees and travelers can be seen in the area during the summer season. There are many temples and other religious sites that are located in the town as well.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Joshimath at an altitude of 2100 mts, is a town with religious importance in Uttarakhand. It is also the junction point for people visiting Auli, one of the best skiing spots in India. It is also the main base point for Badrinath.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Char Dham Yatra and Joshimath</i></b></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many pilgrims take night halt at Joshimath, during their char dham yatra. The road distance from Rishikesh to Joshimath is 251 km via Rudraprayag, KaranPrayag, Srinagar and Chamoli.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>During winter season, the ‘Utsav Murti’ (idol used for public functions and to move around the temple) of Lord Badrinath is worshipped in Narasimha Temple at Joshimath.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Gate System in Joshimath</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Departure from Joshimath to Badrinath is controlled by what is known as the ‘gate’ system. There are two stretches on this road that are so narrow that two-way heavy traffic is impossible. Queued up vehicles from both Joshimath and Badrinath are released at fixed intervals and timings at a nearby place.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>There are certain timings for Gate release. Once released from Joshimath or Badrinath the traffic then stops again at Pandukeshwar (the approximate mid-point), which allows a short two-way. These vehicles cross each other here, and thereafter it is again one-way traffic.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Badrinath</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started from Joshimath by 5AM, after a small Chai break, and hoped to see the sunrise enroute. Most of the people in the car dozed off , while myself and Sandeep were talking about the road consitions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Slowly, the light began to increase (Tamasoma Jyotirgamaya ...), and we could see the surroundings clearly. The only sounds that were heard was that of the gushing waters of the Alakananda river, the engine of our vehicle and the snore of the sleeping souls :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The road to Badrinath is truly adventurous , as one can expect the unexpected. Landslides are very common and the roads are completely broken. The path is very narrow, and vehicles coming from both the sides, crossing each other dangerously.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One side of the road is Alakananda valley, and the other side is the mighty mountain. The never ending turns on the road, rocks and boulders spread over the route, makes this a bumpy-jumpy ride. But, all the pain vanishes once the holiest of the town "Sri Badrinath" is arrived.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Road that leads to Badrinath</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Alakananda valley - Photographed from Mobile phone </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Badrinath is a holy town in the Chamoli district of the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is the most visited of the four sites in India's Char Dham pilgrimage, and gets its name from the temple of Badrinath.</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Badrinath has an average elevation of 3,100 metres (10,170 feet). It is in the Garhwal Himalayas, on the banks of the Alaknanda River. The town lies between the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges 9 km east of Nilkantha peak (6,596m). </span></i><br />
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Golden Hues</div>
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Mountains and Alaknanda river</div>
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Nilkanth peak</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Nilkanth</span></b> is a major peak in the Garhwal division of the Himalayas. Although substantially lower than the highest peaks of the region, it towers dramatically over the valley of the Alakananda River and rises 3,474 metres (11,398 ft) above , only 9 km (6 mi) to the east of </i></span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">the Hindu pilgrimage site of Badrinath.</i><br />
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Play of Lights and Shades</div>
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Nilkanth peak and Badrinath town</div>
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<i><br /></i>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The Satopanth Glacier lies on the northwest side of Nilkanth, The Panpatia Glacier lies to the southwest. Further away, to the west of the peak, lies the well-known Gangotri Glacier and its associated peaks. Across the Alaknanda valley lie the Kamet and Nanda Devi groups.</i></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Alaknanda river</div>
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Badrinath temple</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0lR3iiXrw461onYSFppa-_LYYyx2Px7iJrJ06eiqpKIuCiEi8BlHVWlJTs0GxzML_Alcy6cMoiM3YBWbqnvRAoBWJI0dywYgZ4YnSS0QDoDE7CJY6s0VaLNdweyOVnYg7-fWlrC-i7ui/s1600/temple-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0lR3iiXrw461onYSFppa-_LYYyx2Px7iJrJ06eiqpKIuCiEi8BlHVWlJTs0GxzML_Alcy6cMoiM3YBWbqnvRAoBWJI0dywYgZ4YnSS0QDoDE7CJY6s0VaLNdweyOVnYg7-fWlrC-i7ui/s640/temple-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Alaknanda river and Badrinath town</div>
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Taptakund</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Tapt Kund, a group of hot sulphur springs just below the temple, are considered to be medicinal. Many pilgrims consider it as a requirement to bathe in the springs before visiting the temple. The springs are hot throughout the year.</span><br />
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Entrance of Badrinath temple</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The Badrinath temple is divided into three parts – the ‘Garbha Griha’ or the sanctum sanctorum, the ‘Darshan Mantap’ where the rituals are conducted and the ‘Sabha Mantap’ where devotees assemble.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>At the gate, directly opposite to the main Idol of the Lord himself, is seated the idol of Bird Garuda, the vehicle of Lord Badrinarayan, sitting in prayer with his hands folded. The walls and pillars of the mantapa are covered with carvings.</i></span><br />
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Nilkanth peak and Badrinath temple</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The <b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Garbha Griha</span></b> portion has its canopy covered with a sheet of gold, and houses Lord Badari Narayan, Kuber (God of wealth), Narad rishi, Udhava, Nar & Narayan. The complex has 15 idols especially attractive is the one-metre high image of lord Badrinath, finely sculpted in black stone.According to legend Shankara discovered a black stone image of Lord Badrinarayan made of Saligram stone in the Alaknanda River. He originally enshrined it in a cave near the Tapt Kund hot springs. In the sixteenth century, the King of Garhwal moved the murti to the present temple. It represents Lord Vishnu seated in a meditative pose called padmasan.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The main entrance gate of Badrinath temple is colourful & imposing popularly known as Singhdwar. The temple is approximately 50 feet tall with a small cupola on top, covered with a gold gilt roof.</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Darshan Mantap: </span></b>Lord Badari Narayan is armed with Conch and Chakra in two arms in a lifted posture and two arms rested in Yogic Pose. Badarinarayan is seen under the Badari tree, flanked by Kuber and Garuda, Narad, Narayan and Nar. As you look, standing to the right side of Badrinarayana is Uddhava. To the far right side are Nara and Narayana. Narada Muni is kneeling in front on the right side and is difficult to see. On the left side are Kubera-the god of wealth, and a silver Ganesh. Garuda is kneeling in front, to the left of Badrinarayana.</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iKwE6ysXuoFZbjMzM3_rLocSUkMi79b3UUoT-5L8nBQc4La2LfLJsi6pzsdnTQov6SHbmhmHOU8tzJ7Gl0VDzL0G4jdHfYX1tZvrkf79ZnbDQopo045GEVzIrWM71TDD3n2ZyJlODObx/s1600/Badri-temple-windows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iKwE6ysXuoFZbjMzM3_rLocSUkMi79b3UUoT-5L8nBQc4La2LfLJsi6pzsdnTQov6SHbmhmHOU8tzJ7Gl0VDzL0G4jdHfYX1tZvrkf79ZnbDQopo045GEVzIrWM71TDD3n2ZyJlODObx/s640/Badri-temple-windows.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Temple windows</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Sabha Mandap</span></b>: It is a place in the Temple complex where devotees and pilgrims assemble.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Badrinath temple is open only during April/May - Oct end (Diwali time). The temple committee decides the opening and closing dates of the temple.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mana </span></h2>
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We then proceeded towards Mana, which is very close to Badrinath. Mana is officially the <i>"Last Indian Village" near China border, in this region .</i><br />
We reached Mana by 11.30AM, but we could not visit any other place nearby as time was short, and we had to go back to Chopta.</div>
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We just wanted to step in the "Last Indian Village" :)</div>
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Mana is a village in the district of Chamoli in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, located at an altitude of 3,200 meters. Mana is the last village before the Mana Pass and is 24 kilometres from the border of India and Tibet/China. The village is at a distance of about 3 km from the Hindu Pilgrimage Badrinath and the two places are culturally connected with each other.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiunkZIkIVSVK1I0ODWex3pFPTBc-EzYbGMXuoJ6CcZcoAt_pUJ_uF4n5cbujCZgkK24Axq-OLEOQNHVvVjjpUfhG7nI4eUNFnMKr3PL_kCm96t7pwSbFKqm0HVdqJWfICGU1p1XtuH8o0O/s1600/mana-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiunkZIkIVSVK1I0ODWex3pFPTBc-EzYbGMXuoJ6CcZcoAt_pUJ_uF4n5cbujCZgkK24Axq-OLEOQNHVvVjjpUfhG7nI4eUNFnMKr3PL_kCm96t7pwSbFKqm0HVdqJWfICGU1p1XtuH8o0O/s640/mana-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Mana is a small village stuck in time – one has to park their vehicles at the village border itself, and walk around on foot, thus giving you a chance for a refreshing walk in the midst of the heavenly Himalayan surroundings</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvk4yCWoOnUie-fFArYmjRc0XvQn1sHuvxIbbbBmoMi5mZtKDx4CsZYNsmtWB58RP7CM6XuM6ItbnP3CRwfBOG2dJ0wHP-Azaxu5SNWbyc-ym3OjEBuUy-cYXbG5XSnbRRUDQhZlGZcIC7/s1600/mana-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvk4yCWoOnUie-fFArYmjRc0XvQn1sHuvxIbbbBmoMi5mZtKDx4CsZYNsmtWB58RP7CM6XuM6ItbnP3CRwfBOG2dJ0wHP-Azaxu5SNWbyc-ym3OjEBuUy-cYXbG5XSnbRRUDQhZlGZcIC7/s640/mana-3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Alaknanda at Mana</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Portrait of a local woman</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Board says it all ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are many sight seeing places around Mana, like the Vasudhara Falls , Satopanth Glacier , Vyas gufa , Saraswathi kund , Bhim Phul , Brahma Kapal etc</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All these places are worth visiting, but proper planning is required.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We departed from Mana around 12.15 PM, and proceeded towards Chopta.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Enroute Chopta, we met a forest official at Gopeshwar (Satish uncle's friend)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and had a good "Chai pe charcha" with him.</span><br />
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<b style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Getting There ... </b></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">By Air:</span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> The nearest airport from Badrinath is the Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun, about 320 km from Badrinath. Next best is the Indira Gandhi airport at Delhi, 535kms from Badrinath.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">By Helicopter:</span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> The distance by a helicopter journey is hardly 100 km. There are many providers of helicopter service from Dehradun to Badrinath.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">By Train:</span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> The nearest railway stations to Badrinath are at Rishikesh (300 kms), Haridwar (324 kms) and Kotadwar (327 kms). Rishikesh is not connected by fast trains and Kotadwar has very less number of trains.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thus, Haridwar serves as the best railway station if you are visiting Badrinath by train. Haridwar is connected by many trains from all parts of India.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">By Bus:</span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Badrinath is easily accessible by road. It is located at a distance of 535 Km from Delhi , 300 Km from Rishikesh. There are regular buses operating to Badrinath from Delhi, Haridwar and Rishikesh.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Regular buses operate from Rishikesh bus station to Badrinath and start very early before dawn. The road is narrow after Joshimath and travel is not permitted on the road after sunset. Therefore if one misses the bus for Badrinath at Rishikesh bus station, one has to go only up to Rudraprayag, Chamoli or Joshimath and spend the night there to take the early morning bus for Badrinath.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well connected to Haridwar , Rishikesh, Dehradun , Dev Prayag, Rudra Prayag, Kotdwar, Joshi Math and other hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaon region.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Our route ...</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #76a5af;"><i>Joshimath - Vishnu Prayag - Govind ghat - Pandukeshwar - Hanuman Chatti - Badrinath - Mana </i></span><i style="color: #76a5af;">(48 kms from Joshimath to Mana)</i><br />
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<span style="color: #76a5af;"><i>Mana - Badrinath - Joshimath - Pipalkoti - Chamoli - Gopeshwar - Chopta (approx 190 kms)</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-size: large;"><b>Next Pitstop -> Chopta ....</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_2.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nikklT09Btc7VsdEHyu-wlOntULIJB3R-3LTfIKcNNu_Tdz_QcrwNEcxEmvbui8f17g2Y_Dul-r8jhmClVapdEZdyI4aqv_J8ZF-2NE3gT14fZdsF_LPkSAEPR8lfg7xtqpe45AxQlq0/s1600/green-left.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_39.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jpj8D34tNLlB9xZQ0-Paf8I9SWa1aS10u7DTA0208T9mKfrb7KAfj-qKwFh84SCQWQv_teYs1hitxs4H6_afmjyNkl2iP5s0ROV39aWizhJRVJq9qaLQLCczRYKtI6352fw8nbJrbMOf/s1600/green-right.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_2.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 6 - Gwaldam</span></a></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_39.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 8 - Chopta</span></a></b></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-65227435744036177112016-01-05T09:47:00.000+05:302016-01-05T09:47:38.909+05:30A sojourn in the Kumaon and Garhwal Himalayas : Glorious Gwaldam - (Part 6)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day 7 - Oct 8th , 2015</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a long drive from Munsiari to Gwaldam. The distance was around 250 kms , but the journey took a long time.. really long.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We departed from Munsiari around 9.30 AM , and reached Choukori by lunch time. Had a sumptuous lunch at the same hotel where we used to eat during our stay there. The hotel guys still remembered us :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The same old menu, bread toast - bun makhan , lassi and paratha was our lunch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Around evening , we reached a place called Bageshwar.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><u>Bageshwar</u></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Bageshwar is a city in Bageshwar district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is also the administrative headquarters of district.</i></span><br />
<i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Situated at the confluence of rivers Sarayu and Gomti, lies the holy township of Bageshwar. It is also revered as the pious land associated with Lord Sadashiva, the redeemer of all sins. As the puranas state, this place is undoubtedly capable of liberating one from the eternal bondage of births & deaths. This land of Lord Shankar is of great religious, historic and political significance.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bhageshwar temple</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We then travelled to Baijnath dham, which is another Shiva temple with a great historic importance.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Baijnath Dham</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The temples at Baijnath are situated on the left bank of the Gomti. It has no inscriptions , and the main temple, dedicated to Baijnath or Vaidhyanatha (a name of Shiva), which gives its name to the present village is situated near the Gomti. The temple is approached from the riverside by a flight of steps made of stones. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Baijnath Dham</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Gwaldam</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The winding roads and the starry sky welcomed us at Gwaldam. We reached there by night, and our hunt for lodging began. Checked into KMVN, but found it was not that clean enough.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Few locals suggested another place called "Nature's Treat", which is around 1km from KMVN. This place looked quite good, and we halted there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was dinner time and few local delicacies were savoured.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Gwaldam is a sleepy little town, on the border of Garhwal & Kumaon hills. Set amidst green woods and apple orchards, it is located at an altitude of 1629 mt. 40 Km from Kausani, Gwaldam offers a fascinating view of Himalayan peaks Nanda Devi (7817 mt), Trishul (7120 mt) and Nanda Ghuti (6309 mt).</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Gwaldam is 22 km beyond Baijnath, The highway that goes to Bageshwar, branches off to take you through a fascinating route amidst thick pine forests, against the backdrop of the Himalayas.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>From Gwaldam, the road winds it’s way through dense forests and terraced fields dotted with cottages of Tharali upto the Ranikhet road.</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day 8 - Oct 9th , 2015</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next morning , we set off to a nearby view point to see the Trishul mountains during sunrise. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was very near to the SSB training centre.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gwaldam offers its visitors one of the finest views of the Trishul and its sister peaks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After seeing the mighty Trishul and Nandaghunti peaks, myself and Ambika remembered the amazing trek to Roopkund we had done an year back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The link to my <a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2014/07/transcendental-ecstasy-at-abode-of-gods.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffe599;">Roopkund blog</span></a> is here incase you have missed it:</span></div>
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Trishul at dawn</div>
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<span style="color: #b4a7d6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Trishul is a group of three Himalayan mountain peaks of western Kumaoun, with the highest (Trisul I) reaching 7120m. The three peaks resemble a trident - in Hindi/Sanskrit, Trishula, trident, is the weapon of Shiva. The Trishul group forms the southwest corner of the ring of peaks enclosing the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, about 15 kilometres (9 mi) west-southwest of Nanda Devi itself. The main peak, Trisul I, was the first peak over 7,000 m (22,970 ft) to have ever been climbed, in 1907.</i></span></div>
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Tishul and Maiktoli peaks</div>
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First rays touching Trishul</div>
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Trishul , Maiktoli and Mrigthuni peaks</div>
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Distant town as seen from Gwaldam</div>
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Trishul I , II</div>
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Nanda Ghunti</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Nanda Ghunti is a 6,309-metre-high (20,699 ft) mountain in Garhwal, India. It lies on the outer rim of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary.</i></span></div>
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Trishul and Maiktoli(R)</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>To the west of the Pindari Glacier, situated on the southern slope of the Sunderdhunga Khal, is the 5 km long Maiktoli Glacier. The west of Maiktoli Glacier, is the Mrigthuni Glacier situated on the southern slope of the Mrigthuni, Devtoli peaks. Along the western side of the Sunderdhunga, one reaches at a point from where the Maiktoli and the Mrigthuni Glacier becomes approachable. </i></span><br />
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Trishul and Nanda Ghunti</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbnAPRK817Wrvs7aqN2Fejxg2PZZpzSegPs0_vmAylFMnP0Yl7nSCQAmrnndSI6FodOsnobf8XBHIRhTkkDKOeZlmH44G6QklmSP88GfGhNlK4IBAYRRGtWj_SesEyT-jfQmkgpFyaijv/s1600/gwaldam-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbnAPRK817Wrvs7aqN2Fejxg2PZZpzSegPs0_vmAylFMnP0Yl7nSCQAmrnndSI6FodOsnobf8XBHIRhTkkDKOeZlmH44G6QklmSP88GfGhNlK4IBAYRRGtWj_SesEyT-jfQmkgpFyaijv/s640/gwaldam-20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nanda Ghunti , Trishul , Maiktoli and Mrigthuni</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Tricolor flag</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The very sight of these incredible mountains leaves you spellbound as you admire the beauty of Nature and lose your mind and soul there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Each falling rays of the sun, creates an irreversible magic, which makes you wonder what happens next !!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We then set off towards Badrinath from Gwaldam. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Kumaon was completed and we were entering Garhwal.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Many landslides on the way and Pindar valley welcomed us to Garhwal - the land of gods.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We could feel the Pindar river below us waiting to meet Alaknanda, as we approached Karnaprayag.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Karnaprayag :</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The lunch at a hotel near the confluence of Alaknanda and Pindar rivers was very refreshing. The sight of the gushing river and the sound it makes was a pleasant scene.</span></div>
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Alaknanda and Pindar river (beneath the bridge)</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Alaknanda river</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Karnaprayag is a city in Chamoli District in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Karnaprayag is one of the Panch Prayag (five confluences) of Alaknanda River, situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda, and Pindar River.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Karnaprayag is one of five sites where the confluence of rivers occurs. The five prayags are Vishnuprayag, Nandprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag and Devprayag. Karnaprayag is believed by many to be the place where Karna of the Mahabharatata is said to have worshipped the Sun God. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From Karnaprayag, we travelled along the banks of the Alaknanda river as we headed to Badrinath.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We could not make it to Badrinath the same day, however, we managed to reach Joshimath by night,and halted there.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>Getting there (Gwaldam & Karnaprayag) ...</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) <span style="color: #f1c232;">Gwaldam</span> is well connected by roads, as it is easily accessible from Kumaon and Garhwal sides.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>By Air :</b> Dehradun</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>By Railways </b>: Kathgodam (180 kms)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>By road </b>: Well connected with major towns like Almora , Bageshwar , Nainital and Kausani</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) <span style="color: #f1c232;">Karnaprayag</span> is also well connected by roads from the Garhwal region.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>By Air :</b> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The nearest Domestic Airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, roughly three hour drive from Karanprayag. This airport is well connected to the other important cities like Delhi, Amritsar and Mumbai. The second nearest Domestic Airport from Karanprayag is Pantnagar Airport, roughly 255 Kms from Karanprayag.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>By railways :</b> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The nearest Railway Station is Rishikesh which is connected by all major cities of Uttarakhand. It is situated on the New Delhi-Dehradun railway line and is linked with the place like, Haridwar and Rudraprayag.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>By road : </b></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Being located on National Highway 58, it connects Delhi with Badrinath and Mana Pass in the state. Karanprayag is 32 Kms from Rudraprayag, 41 Kms from Gopeshwar, 67 Kms from Srinagar, 95 Kms from Pauri, 99 Kms from Devprayag, 173 Kms from Rishikesh, 193 Kms from Haridwar and 400 Kms from New Delhi through Uttarakhand State Road Transport Corporation (USRTC) and some private travel services.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Our Route ...</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">i) Munsiari - Choukori - Bageshwar - Baijnath - Gwaldam (approx 250 kms)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ii) Gwaldam - Karnaprayag - Nandaprayag - Chamoli - Pipalkoti - Joshimath (approx 160 kms)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #c27ba0; font-size: large;"><b>Next Pitstop -> Badrinath ...</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_25.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nikklT09Btc7VsdEHyu-wlOntULIJB3R-3LTfIKcNNu_Tdz_QcrwNEcxEmvbui8f17g2Y_Dul-r8jhmClVapdEZdyI4aqv_J8ZF-2NE3gT14fZdsF_LPkSAEPR8lfg7xtqpe45AxQlq0/s1600/green-left.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_25.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 5 - Munsiari</span></a></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_4.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jpj8D34tNLlB9xZQ0-Paf8I9SWa1aS10u7DTA0208T9mKfrb7KAfj-qKwFh84SCQWQv_teYs1hitxs4H6_afmjyNkl2iP5s0ROV39aWizhJRVJq9qaLQLCczRYKtI6352fw8nbJrbMOf/s1600/green-right.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_4.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 7 - Badrinath</span></a></b></span></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-24096801832610888412016-01-05T09:43:00.000+05:302016-01-13T17:15:44.131+05:30A sojourn in the Kumaon and Garhwal Himalayas : Magnificent Munsiari - (Part 5)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day 5 - Oct 6th , 2015.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The route from Choukori to Munsiari is covered with Pine forests and couple of waterfalls. Though it is only 95kms, the time taken to reach is more, because of the altitude and mountain roads.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Munsiari is a very famous destination in the Kumaon region as it is a starting point to many treks such as Milam glacier trek , Dharma valley trek etc.</span><br />
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Women carrying heavy bundles of grass</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4fyLcZZmWnigbvnZQl8TEQsfRx3yGTXDFqgTmotJ4Lq7-U1l2RA2eSDovvSyIFEeBmpbUnYY-shoOQH6bXho1ictbSgf6Qy6jopF7oW758IcHwn4zLb8O8wG1ZJnm4CjQdDtm1wmkp6I/s1600/farm-lady.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4fyLcZZmWnigbvnZQl8TEQsfRx3yGTXDFqgTmotJ4Lq7-U1l2RA2eSDovvSyIFEeBmpbUnYY-shoOQH6bXho1ictbSgf6Qy6jopF7oW758IcHwn4zLb8O8wG1ZJnm4CjQdDtm1wmkp6I/s640/farm-lady.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Birthi falls :</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can see Birthi Falls from a long distance and as we got closer and closer, the sight was gradually beginning to unfold, till we finally reached the base of the falls. One can see the KMVN's TRH at Birthi from a long distance and the plan was to have a lunch stop.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A small iron bridge is constructed at the base of the falls.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjew8xjT7riQOPb6sPmCw1aN9d-HsTmA9c8ddGpoxsedTme1l7JXjIIqnKp3hPP24WCxg6V7nDFKZ_NC1nFNMdkZ0-57b9Z1Z-Dy0rBZ5iQFLicYnXYdSVrgFl_zEYVJHxCUOnDmUmARjP1/s1600/birthi-falls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjew8xjT7riQOPb6sPmCw1aN9d-HsTmA9c8ddGpoxsedTme1l7JXjIIqnKp3hPP24WCxg6V7nDFKZ_NC1nFNMdkZ0-57b9Z1Z-Dy0rBZ5iQFLicYnXYdSVrgFl_zEYVJHxCUOnDmUmARjP1/s640/birthi-falls.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Birthi falls</div>
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Jogging in afternoon- Ambika and Satish uncle </div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The landscape changes every few kilometres. The pine forests were then changed to grassland vegetation, and then again changed back to shrub jungle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We could see the vegetation changing as we gained altitude.</span></div>
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TRH - Birthi</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kalamuni top is a sharp bend which is located about 5 kms from Munsiari. This place offers tourists the closer view of the mountain peaks of Panchachuli range. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Kalamuni temple</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AU7_37aIxguZz2cTES91Bf8a4H3Z0XuU-czpoWwBO4bSjAJeok7csECStT3DHd1f3RiDpGtPA36AgryksDq0ID-69JNM0NsjgC9XNUqxwOQNyeearpUyK8HKz6XDxluPaX77JZWE5q5i/s1600/landscape-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AU7_37aIxguZz2cTES91Bf8a4H3Z0XuU-czpoWwBO4bSjAJeok7csECStT3DHd1f3RiDpGtPA36AgryksDq0ID-69JNM0NsjgC9XNUqxwOQNyeearpUyK8HKz6XDxluPaX77JZWE5q5i/s640/landscape-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Valley</div>
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Paramount pictures</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidorF2IyRp2lcEAPTtzAl0riPT5VgGLiZ6cVtYBe1JSzu8eMeBSXEMao2cB9_iDrbXI7xP8KCwF_TCSF0DJclRhYtdizI2OjdAMidfQgk6GRQgS70qJEwXXruvVDTIHQvGNWIyr3qE-lK-/s1600/landscape-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidorF2IyRp2lcEAPTtzAl0riPT5VgGLiZ6cVtYBe1JSzu8eMeBSXEMao2cB9_iDrbXI7xP8KCwF_TCSF0DJclRhYtdizI2OjdAMidfQgk6GRQgS70qJEwXXruvVDTIHQvGNWIyr3qE-lK-/s640/landscape-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Panchachuli pea</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">k</span></div>
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Lammergier / Bearded vulture</div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Munsiari</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Atlast, the most awaited place of the trip had arrived. The sheer beauty of the place and its surroundings made us enthralled. It is surrounded by Himalayan Peaks of the Panchachuli range , thick forests , streams and rivulets , potato fields , waterfalls etc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is a tailor made destination for landscape photographers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Munsiari is a small town, in the Pithoragarh District of the hill-state of Uttarakhand.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>It lies at the base of the great Himalayan mountain range, at an elevation of about 2,200 m (7,200 ft) and is a starting point of various treks into the interior of the range.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The cool breeze welcomed us at Munsiari and the sun had almost set. We were in search of accommodation and finalized "Milam Inn" . It is a beautiful hotel which offers an amazing view point of the Panchachulis.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The night had set in, and I was ready with my camera and tripod to shoot stars. Shooting night sky with hot pakoras and bread toast with some chai in the Himalayas is a divine feeling.</span></div>
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Milkyway</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The milkyway is seen along the Panchachuli peaks in the backdrop. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Day 6 - Oct 7th , 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We all woke up to the tunes of small birds around us and were very eager to watch the sunrise with the peaks in front of us. This was a great moment that we witnessed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Each ray of the golden sun falling on the majestic peaks at varying times is a phenomenon on its own, and the spectacle is mind blowing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Within no time, the sun rises over the mighty peaks and the light is spread all over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Satish uncle had shot some pictures last time when he had visisted this place (around 10 years back) in a farm nearby. We thought of trying out similar pictures this time as well, and headed towards the farm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The people over there recognized him, and thus were very hospitable.</span></div>
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Majestic view of Panchachuli ranges</div>
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Panorama</div>
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Farming</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is a beautiful tribal museum at the town centre which has a wide collection of old dresses, tools , herbs , photos etc. This is worth watching when you are at Munsiari, and all the items are single handedly collected by Dr. Pangteyji.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a privilege meeting him at the museum.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a while, we decided to go towards Kalamuni, to try our luck in shooting the Lammergier (as we had seen it the previous day). Though we could not spot the bird, we spotted couple of endemic birds such as Plumbeous redstart , Yellow billed blue magpie , and the majestic Himalayan Monal itself.</span></div>
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Yellow billed blue magpie</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Plumbeous Redstart</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All of us were eagerly watching for birds, and all of a sudden Teju spotted the Monal. It was a first timer for all of us (except Satish uncle), and the very sight of the magnificent bird gave me goosebumps. The colors of it has no match.</span></div>
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Shepherd with his sheep herd</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The sun was about to set, and we could see the colors eventually changing to Gold.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We rushed to a viewpoint as we drove down from Kalamuni.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The clouds were covering the mountains very quickly, and we could manage to get only few photograohs, before the clouds played spoilsport.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once back at the hotel, I started to do astro photography again :)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Day 7 - Oct 8th , 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Woodpecker</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Woodpecker</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Early in the morning, we went towards the gate of Khulia top (entry point) , and could spot few Himalayan Griffons. These birds gave us a lot of opportunity for photographing them with varied compositions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Himalayan Griffons :</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Himalayan vulture or Himalayan griffon vulture (Gyps himalayensis) is an Old World vulture in the family Accipitridae. Closely related to the European griffon vulture (G. fulvus) and once considered a subspecies of it, this species is found along the Himalayas and the adjoining Tibetan Plateau. It is one of the two largest Old World vultures and true raptors.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAR83EWlxdlM7B-Wmgaqp8-dECeDL5G4_oG6R6uKhd2SQANMuDlYD2qIg4H_QJTNBLXjrMt-NvzWTNj8Eoen17PvRY51dGiMpNP73xHzQlo80hg55rB3vAuFdLtpFO1orR9lWVpJ68RyMt/s1600/Griffon-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAR83EWlxdlM7B-Wmgaqp8-dECeDL5G4_oG6R6uKhd2SQANMuDlYD2qIg4H_QJTNBLXjrMt-NvzWTNj8Eoen17PvRY51dGiMpNP73xHzQlo80hg55rB3vAuFdLtpFO1orR9lWVpJ68RyMt/s640/Griffon-19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMxJMpYzg1QOqp926fYCOQ3koTcpKwIiZL5Rob2aeN6fVu3TPyC020C0sTgA0X59cU_SCFVjqaGYbOQ68wTrKHiD9bawv9NonE0Q9oa5zN9fvm0IZqOKIpZ5cMFcjfdIWdwOC-u3nNlay/s1600/Griffon-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMxJMpYzg1QOqp926fYCOQ3koTcpKwIiZL5Rob2aeN6fVu3TPyC020C0sTgA0X59cU_SCFVjqaGYbOQ68wTrKHiD9bawv9NonE0Q9oa5zN9fvm0IZqOKIpZ5cMFcjfdIWdwOC-u3nNlay/s640/Griffon-20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhECAbYIClMJOOfGYVGXE7vJeArNl-qhnMAGGiqsuT2QotSosmemM6FtuCwEvE8dar0UBz3798jejOcYbzVpE2O2dEFJmzYS26Os4mP3o_E6ZiX8IubrGAVXn19BoUf9qDa6p6U7rJDnX8c/s1600/Griffon-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhECAbYIClMJOOfGYVGXE7vJeArNl-qhnMAGGiqsuT2QotSosmemM6FtuCwEvE8dar0UBz3798jejOcYbzVpE2O2dEFJmzYS26Os4mP3o_E6ZiX8IubrGAVXn19BoUf9qDa6p6U7rJDnX8c/s640/Griffon-21.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZErHjajf9eCvFpX9VrtJwEmT-Ksi4n9_0-k2iiqvAjUEukY-Dt_zh9npjjVywRoF75vwM04PIsj9AZQ_2ITkRENQeovHXJdSzflXmWceHbOi2TubfkxIv-x0zejuCwwLQ7zh02opLNnH3/s1600/Griffon-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZErHjajf9eCvFpX9VrtJwEmT-Ksi4n9_0-k2iiqvAjUEukY-Dt_zh9npjjVywRoF75vwM04PIsj9AZQ_2ITkRENQeovHXJdSzflXmWceHbOi2TubfkxIv-x0zejuCwwLQ7zh02opLNnH3/s640/Griffon-22.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuNsd1IjJgq1yFpLXUI0loUTbAw-EhWiAj_7wfpwIDEulpvhS0W5bmNNNzOxYqx4TC4ocq3fUxftsZD45Hnmepge1z05jNp4nMuIvt3xZKdFno90QYGAbpbpumIfgfMjd9tW3x5Kc1JsM/s1600/Griffon-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuNsd1IjJgq1yFpLXUI0loUTbAw-EhWiAj_7wfpwIDEulpvhS0W5bmNNNzOxYqx4TC4ocq3fUxftsZD45Hnmepge1z05jNp4nMuIvt3xZKdFno90QYGAbpbpumIfgfMjd9tW3x5Kc1JsM/s640/Griffon-23.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WLJCP_k2kkgqCqCxTyV4KHanJ6zl7X3kn418qgn43BZXW54eHn_NTpWoWWUP-N8D0BBfAvNHOKqkRR5g4SRkz9sncjt2Q2q5vTWStOIebavmza9I7gH5H2sBxrbube-BWmUbSz7EwUmy/s1600/Griffon-25-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WLJCP_k2kkgqCqCxTyV4KHanJ6zl7X3kn418qgn43BZXW54eHn_NTpWoWWUP-N8D0BBfAvNHOKqkRR5g4SRkz9sncjt2Q2q5vTWStOIebavmza9I7gH5H2sBxrbube-BWmUbSz7EwUmy/s640/Griffon-25-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_Ivxos6b3rsDBxJBwanmePUud34Yne6wKN4lFSOplU9aWaFAajmds-5TBSkeqYDkBe2ELXwAmOkt8J5-jTVZ8XmWQue1jwV4o3SwSsdGDhyI_SJG10qeIEI9pa9Kx6zI0RhHkmSqEA_o/s1600/Griffon-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_Ivxos6b3rsDBxJBwanmePUud34Yne6wKN4lFSOplU9aWaFAajmds-5TBSkeqYDkBe2ELXwAmOkt8J5-jTVZ8XmWQue1jwV4o3SwSsdGDhyI_SJG10qeIEI9pa9Kx6zI0RhHkmSqEA_o/s640/Griffon-26.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7RP6nArVI0Ex1mTGqXYyb6HfNW1TY74NqSCH_cWsUpBj1JGgiG9_x0ZKrkbAFd-7CLKGl5fRi0BclR6fmh6ib2UgGFc1NC9ibe9Fvi_3c8qvEZNLS_nB0YWZ0ic29c6YOApepOR2gIHyL/s1600/Griffon-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7RP6nArVI0Ex1mTGqXYyb6HfNW1TY74NqSCH_cWsUpBj1JGgiG9_x0ZKrkbAFd-7CLKGl5fRi0BclR6fmh6ib2UgGFc1NC9ibe9Fvi_3c8qvEZNLS_nB0YWZ0ic29c6YOApepOR2gIHyL/s640/Griffon-27.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We then left the place and headed towards Gwaldam. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Below pictures were shot enroute :</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDacL00IvIxkDek0m_lf0PfGY_3VgTY6xcbGWcnWJY_BVoBUPV2QzlAnNVSCWggsfMlbViyX79D_EuXk4uexjjh7AUHiS37mO9d8UsrVzGOZBW63XdWC3Ab6Fneknuitk8GvLZNNMbBfF/s1600/house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDacL00IvIxkDek0m_lf0PfGY_3VgTY6xcbGWcnWJY_BVoBUPV2QzlAnNVSCWggsfMlbViyX79D_EuXk4uexjjh7AUHiS37mO9d8UsrVzGOZBW63XdWC3Ab6Fneknuitk8GvLZNNMbBfF/s640/house.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On the way back, there was a small waterfalls. The cascading water between the rocks and the algae formation on the rocks, gave me </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">good opportunity to try slow shutter speed photography.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3lB9Dwj5gXdBBzjrz1mmlZ3lFjIezE7hqTDBK0HIqbze7kG8goroumFF3ellIsRk8uPZcpm5dKGW7bGuCCre_CH3aYKNIbTam8gi43chYrTQ0foH3HzeMPLLBSV0gjzEUVFWdlfVssh3/s1600/falls-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3lB9Dwj5gXdBBzjrz1mmlZ3lFjIezE7hqTDBK0HIqbze7kG8goroumFF3ellIsRk8uPZcpm5dKGW7bGuCCre_CH3aYKNIbTam8gi43chYrTQ0foH3HzeMPLLBSV0gjzEUVFWdlfVssh3/s640/falls-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOok3NyA7AmGPoUU7MHBAXvIGX4LeksswY73eFxIMiPkeq3OiiuvJoc2QiDP4LdEx9ilp2tdGvG45s3KVz6hTd92qd8FSd969E8jTgKnQ349LSskqunjwPF0J-gNwc9m5f49IJ03J5Zfeo/s1600/falls-new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOok3NyA7AmGPoUU7MHBAXvIGX4LeksswY73eFxIMiPkeq3OiiuvJoc2QiDP4LdEx9ilp2tdGvG45s3KVz6hTd92qd8FSd969E8jTgKnQ349LSskqunjwPF0J-gNwc9m5f49IJ03J5Zfeo/s640/falls-new.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Milam Inn :</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The hotel is situated in a very scenic location that offers magnificent views of the Panchachulis.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Website : http://milaminnmunsiyari.com/index.html</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tariff : Depends on the season, we paid around Rs. 1400/- per room per night.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hotel Milam Inn</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Getting there (Munsiari) :</b></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Nainital to Munsiari</b> - 300 kms (via Pittoragarh) - Cabs are available from major cities in the state like Nainital , Almora , Pittoragarh etc</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Choukori to Munsiari</b> - 95 kms</span></div>
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<b style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our Route :</b></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Choukori - Birthi - Munsiari (approx 95 kms)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Next Pitstop -> Gwaldam ....</i></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_70.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 4 - Choukori</span></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_2.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 6 - Gwaldam</span></a></b></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-321629671069251505.post-12681762724193169582016-01-05T09:40:00.000+05:302016-01-05T09:40:52.364+05:30A sojourn in the Kumaon and Garhwal Himalayas : Charming Chaukori - (Part 4)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Day 4 - Oct 5th , 2015</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A small village that offers splendid views of Mt. Panwalidhwar , Mt. Nanda devi , Mt. Nanda Kot , Mt. Nanda East and the Panchachuli range is Chaukori.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Chaukori </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chaukori is a small hill station in the Pithoragarh district set among the lofty peaks, of the western Himalayan Range in the Kumaon Division of Uttarakhand, India. To the north is Tibet and to the south is Terai. The Mahakali River, running along its eastern boundary, forms the Indo-Nepal international border.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chaukori's elevation is 2010 m with spectacular panoramic views of the snowy peaks of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and the Panchchuli group. It is approximately 10 km from Berinag, another little hill station.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was told that the sunrise would cast a golden spell on the mighty mountains. Hence , I was eager to witness this spectacle right in front of my eyes. We all woke up early to watch the sunrise ,( which we never do in Bangalore :)</span><br />
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Nanda Devi , Nanda Kot and Nanda East</div>
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Nanda East</div>
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Colorful Layers</div>
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Nanda Devi </div>
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Panchachuli ranges</div>
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Panchachuli ranges</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We then set off to an ashram which is very near to the KMVN guest houses. This place is situated in a vast open grassland, and the views of the mountains are extremely clear.</span><br />
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Panwalidhwar , Nandadevi , Sunandadevi</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Monochrome mountains</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next, we planned to visit a place called Pathal Bhuvaneshwar. Believe me, this was one of the best places I have ever seen.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Pathal Bhuvaneshwar</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a limestone cave temple, 14 km from Gangolihat in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand state in India. It is located in the village Bhuvaneshwar. Legend and folklore have it that this underground cave enshrines Lord Shiva and thirty three crore Gods . The cave is about 100 m long and 90 feet deep from the point of entrance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Limestone rock formations have created various spectacular stalactite and stalagmite figures of various colors and forms. This cave has a narrow tunnel-like opening which leads to a number of caves. The cave is fully electrically illuminated. Built by the flow of water, Patal Bhuvaneshwar is not just one cave, rather a series of caves within caves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Unfortunately, photography is not allowed at the place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"This awesome cave is believed to be as old as the earth itself. It has been mentioned in detail in the "Skanda Purana". The first human who entered this cave was king "Rituparna" of Surya Dynasty during the "Tretayuga". It is said that during his visit, he had encountered several demons and "Sheshnaag" himself acted as his guide.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One can see the gateway of the great ages in Patal Bhuvaneshwar. There are four entrances inside the cave named as ‘Randwar’ , ‘Paapdwar’, ‘Dharamdwar’ and ‘Mokshadwar’. The Paapdwar was closed soon after the death of Ravana and the Randwar, literally, the road to war, was closed down after the great Mahabharata war. At present only two gateways are opened. You can see the tongue of Kali Bhairav, Airavat of Indra, hairs of Lord Shiva and several other wonders inside the caves of Patal Bhuvaneshwar.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In "Dwaparyuga" this cave was rediscovered by the Pandavas. In Kaliyuga, Adishankar Acharya consecrated this cave and since 1191, this has been a place of visit, both for sightseeing and worship."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By sunset, we were back at Chaukori.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RCBEXvPZkl7hdbAVN7TyOHoKCS2EcvfKzOexT5gyhz0dPMe6dz03XRBHfNDLJuDR6Q8P7vJ0FfFNvEuvoV1uYaLhhu0zVwk8bkhqry8wcdLptYPRNEmH0FfnLafnMWXi0lMR9zuv_H3v/s1600/Choukori-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RCBEXvPZkl7hdbAVN7TyOHoKCS2EcvfKzOexT5gyhz0dPMe6dz03XRBHfNDLJuDR6Q8P7vJ0FfFNvEuvoV1uYaLhhu0zVwk8bkhqry8wcdLptYPRNEmH0FfnLafnMWXi0lMR9zuv_H3v/s640/Choukori-17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Last rays if sun hitting the Panchachuli peak</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Star trails along Berinag village</span></div>
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<b style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day 5 - Oct 6th , 2015</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next morning, Satish uncle and myself walked towards the ashram to shoot mountains during sunrise.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUk0yCQQbFNjltflAVjXWP0hncHRnwsS27Y773jpC6f5Vbi1fNLFUu6ANQw-9QvPgE9ryivRXylRLqriK2bUtKjA87ueXLPfsECNK-chK6DRy3ESMCYM-I0kc84PPxVqeFOVZIGXZtz7le/s1600/Choukori-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUk0yCQQbFNjltflAVjXWP0hncHRnwsS27Y773jpC6f5Vbi1fNLFUu6ANQw-9QvPgE9ryivRXylRLqriK2bUtKjA87ueXLPfsECNK-chK6DRy3ESMCYM-I0kc84PPxVqeFOVZIGXZtz7le/s640/Choukori-18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PfUzBc_q_XmFTH5_MDouN_WzR7FWGVVvJNW4JbfFg6_Wky8a-bFHIJQ9gi7cQqGUIgBJdHKno-Ze8khGF0kAKWFMX7Ut5cRs_aSUDuFm0zduZSxjXjq-mPIxwCJvTfnnGFsTWtl-ObFF/s1600/Choukori-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PfUzBc_q_XmFTH5_MDouN_WzR7FWGVVvJNW4JbfFg6_Wky8a-bFHIJQ9gi7cQqGUIgBJdHKno-Ze8khGF0kAKWFMX7Ut5cRs_aSUDuFm0zduZSxjXjq-mPIxwCJvTfnnGFsTWtl-ObFF/s640/Choukori-20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Panorama (stitched 8 images)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTiW-flyDLbwCovnT40NDq3BfL59ubShJAm3_PFOQULb1qHpIJ8gIuM5OWJw7IYQemcVtJeCHo3_Bgl4ehNuvTFBntdOAcSda_1Yinxg595MB6P_gooQAIRg8Ffq8sNcmd5XHmu15T4Opw/s1600/Choukori-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTiW-flyDLbwCovnT40NDq3BfL59ubShJAm3_PFOQULb1qHpIJ8gIuM5OWJw7IYQemcVtJeCHo3_Bgl4ehNuvTFBntdOAcSda_1Yinxg595MB6P_gooQAIRg8Ffq8sNcmd5XHmu15T4Opw/s640/Choukori-21.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Tt02AGFm8QaPM7Q_P33nwxVmJ9exx4EXsBEFDA4ZcPi9zPD6AKnbryub6SjAfvpJS9AA-eW6_-Au4WfQpgCOigOjLabli5_Fr4U4aXg2r9d0sgieJDx-25Nlq-GscIvM4rsDvkRYigOj/s1600/Choukori-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Tt02AGFm8QaPM7Q_P33nwxVmJ9exx4EXsBEFDA4ZcPi9zPD6AKnbryub6SjAfvpJS9AA-eW6_-Au4WfQpgCOigOjLabli5_Fr4U4aXg2r9d0sgieJDx-25Nlq-GscIvM4rsDvkRYigOj/s640/Choukori-23.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Gold</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mGXjMCzY9w3zPM4s7punPCs6qcKuDhy6Du5A8stSexVfaXR96gxuXIjIXkVgguJYDLY_4_xh6qh1yUJVQqUK5AtytiV-VadaUYzl-5CuV53tmqTerBmAU2DT4yYemlZ1nRzUO-7Lyrt4/s1600/Choukori-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mGXjMCzY9w3zPM4s7punPCs6qcKuDhy6Du5A8stSexVfaXR96gxuXIjIXkVgguJYDLY_4_xh6qh1yUJVQqUK5AtytiV-VadaUYzl-5CuV53tmqTerBmAU2DT4yYemlZ1nRzUO-7Lyrt4/s640/Choukori-24.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The area is also good for bird photography. Within a span of 1 hour, we could spot around 10 species of birds</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9J4aXLBrTI58_tr9de4go60EazLo_8VOu4KQ2Tf_13OejcW6oQSQ8bFpm13bN-Gi70rwU_o0ZPu2e2XPBjUclwvWsN6LIwafPtmv798jLu2RR7etTu-XSHPwLseT-1U-YradnvqKejVRa/s1600/hoopoe-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9J4aXLBrTI58_tr9de4go60EazLo_8VOu4KQ2Tf_13OejcW6oQSQ8bFpm13bN-Gi70rwU_o0ZPu2e2XPBjUclwvWsN6LIwafPtmv798jLu2RR7etTu-XSHPwLseT-1U-YradnvqKejVRa/s640/hoopoe-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hoopoe</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UNdqfa9BO48DNRGsVe5GaxoABJ5WsYOKAhK1yRiqaITZbXm_gijUTA13SHJaI57xEsHpfTjuB2VycBBFiG7AZvSzlx_rwebmCyUjk6SwUe5TuZHjRfnlrFxUTaYVUknClmZIqmkkL-fd/s1600/hoopoe-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UNdqfa9BO48DNRGsVe5GaxoABJ5WsYOKAhK1yRiqaITZbXm_gijUTA13SHJaI57xEsHpfTjuB2VycBBFiG7AZvSzlx_rwebmCyUjk6SwUe5TuZHjRfnlrFxUTaYVUknClmZIqmkkL-fd/s640/hoopoe-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Black headed Jay</div>
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Black headed Jay</div>
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Black headed Jay</div>
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Black headed Jay</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Red billed blue magpie</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFpoeg_4q07eP7R7WSGwQdV1ZDaeH_1ETYIRu8jC0Llvrsr3vADsMaD53QrzXcIZUmQQ4c1tbwrQJDFR0fvxpdvxGxs3bloKpkTshq-VCI6fdmi_IvHUVaEItcgsU5_Qi2mdiHNaj_gZ4P/s1600/trh-kmvn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFpoeg_4q07eP7R7WSGwQdV1ZDaeH_1ETYIRu8jC0Llvrsr3vADsMaD53QrzXcIZUmQQ4c1tbwrQJDFR0fvxpdvxGxs3bloKpkTshq-VCI6fdmi_IvHUVaEItcgsU5_Qi2mdiHNaj_gZ4P/s640/trh-kmvn.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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KMVN guesthouses with Nandadevi in the backdrop</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bounded by beautiful snow-covered peaks, and dense forests, Chaukori is a dream weekend getaway from Nainital for people who admire the exquisite beauty of nature and to enjoy absolute peace and tranquility.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Gaurav Resort</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gaurav Resort is an ideal accommodation , that is situated just before the KMVN guesthouse, near the police checkpost at Chaukori.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tarriff : Rs. 1000/- per room per night</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Note : This may change, based on seasons and inflow of tourists</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We stayed here for two nights.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGidNAeh6ME16N3gTqAyWO7v4SiYU5rtS1FKo73RySmqABSSCVY18dOfYmVFa2SR29xb0kLl5moGEoZptyAUW_3zQ8VkWb1CkdT9t_KzgEaaQdGLmA2YHcl9vVNJhxToVYepKa8SoAsaPS/s1600/gaurav.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGidNAeh6ME16N3gTqAyWO7v4SiYU5rtS1FKo73RySmqABSSCVY18dOfYmVFa2SR29xb0kLl5moGEoZptyAUW_3zQ8VkWb1CkdT9t_KzgEaaQdGLmA2YHcl9vVNJhxToVYepKa8SoAsaPS/s640/gaurav.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Getting there </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Delhi - 530 km</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kathgodam - 230 km via Almora and Bageshwar</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nainital - 200 km</span><br />
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Reach Chaukori By Air</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IG Airport at Delhi or the Jolly grant airport at Dehradun, are the nearest ones to approach Chaoukori as these airports are well connected from major Indian cities </span><br />
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Reach Chaukori By Rail </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The nearest railway station is Kathgodam. Chaukori town is situated at a distance 198 kilo meters from the closest rail head Kathgodam. From the railway station you can hire private cars or can get buses to reach Chaukori. Trains are also there from capital city Delhi to Kathgodam on a daily basis. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Reach Chaukori By Road </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tourists can reach Chaukori by bus, the major and well known places like Haldwani and Almora. Apart from the state buses, pilgrims can also catch buses from otherplaces of India such as Delhi and Nainital. The distance between Chaukori and Nainital is around 200 kilo meters. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Our Route ...</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nainital - Almora - Jageshwar - Danya - Berinag - Chaukori</span><br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Next pitstop -> Munsiari ....</b></i></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_93.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nikklT09Btc7VsdEHyu-wlOntULIJB3R-3LTfIKcNNu_Tdz_QcrwNEcxEmvbui8f17g2Y_Dul-r8jhmClVapdEZdyI4aqv_J8ZF-2NE3gT14fZdsF_LPkSAEPR8lfg7xtqpe45AxQlq0/s1600/green-left.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_25.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jpj8D34tNLlB9xZQ0-Paf8I9SWa1aS10u7DTA0208T9mKfrb7KAfj-qKwFh84SCQWQv_teYs1hitxs4H6_afmjyNkl2iP5s0ROV39aWizhJRVJq9qaLQLCczRYKtI6352fw8nbJrbMOf/s1600/green-right.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_93.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 3 - Kainchidham and Jageshwar</span></a></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://arjunhaarith.blogspot.in/2016/01/a-sojourn-in-kumaon-and-garhwal_25.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Part 5 - Munsiari</span></a></b></span></div>
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Arjun Haarithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02508022502793338385noreply@blogger.com1