Reflections from Adi - A to Z Challenge.

Reflections from Adi - A to Z Challenge.

A to Z challenge - I had seen the badge on some fellow bloggers but was never excited to know more about it. Nor was I excited enough when Sweta posted her theme and decision to take the challenge. However, I clicked the link and went to the page. There were so many participants. But it was a tough month for me with almost 20 days travel plan. There were some more blogs on A to Z like those of Shashank and Amita and I couldn't keep myself away. On the first April itself and took to write - Write for the whole month. Then instantly came the thought of a theme and I took the theme of travel with focus on Himalayan states Himachal & Uttranchal where I had spent two years a part. Thus, started the journey and you would be surprised to know Himachal had so much to offer that I didn't even touch Uttaranchal throughout the month. Blogging really is infectious ... you stay in touch and you would love to get addicted.

Thus started the month, some commitment some planning lot of surfing, lot of research, lot of reading and plethora of writing. I can't believe I could write all through though I went off by couple of days at times. What I could write is one part of it which naturally gives one the satisfaction, more fulfilling were the constant visit by some fellow friends and their constant comments. For any writer comment is breather and I am indebted to all visitors for their time and motivating comments. I would love to bestow my special  thanks to Archana, Sweta,  Indrani, Abhijit, Selfdrive, Yogi and all those whose visit kept me motivated to write more and more. Thanks a lot.

It was not only one way - writing and writing - but more fulfilling as it was a learning experience. I was overwhelmed by the variety of blogs that were available throughout. It almost touched all one can think of. There were fiction, reflection, article, poetry, travelogues, technical suggestions everything. I had gone through some of them. But now is the time... I would love to read more and more of them to learn more, know more writers and connect with more bloggers.

In the last I would like to thank the host of this challenge who had been so devoted to constantly be in touch and make this a real interesting episode. 

Just to add pls find below the link to all the 26 posts of A to Z challenge.

A : A for Apple State 

Dhauladhar in Moonlit Night

B : B for Bir - Billing & baijnath

Billing

C : C for Churches in HP  

Church at McLeod Ganj

D : D for Dham  

Dham

E : E for Eco Tourism

Eco Tourism 

F : F for fish farming

Fish Farming

G : G or Government in Exile - Tibetan Govt. & Dalai Lama in McLeod Ganj

Dalai Lama Temple

H : H for Hidamba Temple and all about Manali

Hidimba Temple

I : I for India's Marijuana Heaven - India but still Alien - Malana   

Malana

J : J for Jakhoo temple and all about Shimla 

Jakhoo Temple

K : K for Keylong and all about Lahaul and Spiti 

Lahaul Museum

  L : L for Lakes in Himachal

Manimahesh Lake

M : M for Monolithic Temple - Masroor  

Masroor Tempol

N : N for Nako, Namgyal, Nyingmapa, Norbulingka and other Monasteries

Norbulingka

O : O for Ornaments of Himachal 

Chirri Tika

P : P for Pilgrim Special - Shakti Peeths in Himachal

Bajreshwari Devi Temple

Q : Q for Queer Facts and beliefs

Jwala ji

R : R for Rohtang Pass

Rohtang

S : S for Sports for Tourists in Himachal

Rafting

T : T for Triund and other Trekking Trails

Triund

U : U for Ultimate festials of Himachala

Kullu Dussehra

V: Vagabonds - The Gaddis

Gaddis

W : W for Weekend Tourist Destinations in HP

Dharamshala

X : X for 'Xtra in Himachal

Pong

Y : Y for Yatras in Himachal

Mani Mahesh Yatra

Z : Z for Zenith of all travel routes - Manali - Leh Ladakh Drive

Manali - Rohtang - Leh

Thanks.

Aditya Sinha

For other participants in the challenge visit : A to Z Challenge

X for 'Xtra in Himachal

This post is written for A to Z Challenge.

X for 'Xtra in Himachal

All through the 25 posts on Himachal I have tried to touch all possible aspects that a tourist can choose from while visiting Himachal. I have tried to list important pilgrim places, the new way of tourism, the sports, the driveways, churches, religion, people, jewellery, monasteries, Tibetan government, weekend tourist spots, lakes, yatras..... perhaps everything. Yet I have missed one - as that was not natural but more of Man - made Lake i.e. Pong Lake - the reservoir created due to the pong dam. This is 'xtra.


Pong Dam Lake 

Maharana Pratap Sagar Dam on River Beas in Kangra is also known as Pong Reservoir or Pong Dam Lake  and was created in 1975, by building the highest earthfill dam in wetland zone of the Siwalik Hills of the  kangra district of HP.the reservoir or the lake is a well-known wildlife sanctuary and one of the 25 international wetland sites declared in India.

Migratory Birds at Pong

The Pong Reservoir and Gobind Sagar Reservoir are the two most important fishing reservoirs in the Himalayan foothills HP. These reservoirs are the leading sources of fish within the Himalayan states.

It stands in the border of Punjab and Himachal and can be easily reached from Pathankot (32km) or Mukerian (30km). It is about 55 kms from Dharamshala and can be reached through Nagrota Surian or Jwali in Kangra. It is well connected by roads in these areas.

View in the evening

It has been declared as a bird sanctuary in 1983. Lacs of Migratory birds come to this area during the winters. The national, as well as international, significance of the sanctuary is enhanced because of its waterfowl diversity, which was evidenced by the increase of water fowl species from 39 prior to the reservoir to 54 species at post-reservoir stage. The number of birds reported, particularly during the winter period of November to March, has steadily increased over the years and is over lacs now. The main bird species seen here during winters are the barheaded goose, Anser indicus, northern lapwing, rudd shell duck, northern pintail, common teal, Spot billed duck, Eurasian Coot, Red necked Greebe, Black headed gulls, Black stork, water-fowl, egrets, Wagtails, Sand Larks, Pipits etc.

Birds at Pong

Its a budding tourists destination. There is also a regional water sports centre established in the Pong Dam Reservoir, which offers focused activities such as canoeing, rowing, sailing, and water skiing, apart from swimming. Training programmes are organized in water safety and rescue measures with three-tier water-sports courses are provided here.

Water Sports

With this I complete the A to Z challenge taking theme of travel in Himachal.

For other posts on Himachal written as part of A to Z Challenge  check - List of post on Himachal Pradesh written as part of A to Z challenge.

Aditya Sinha

For other participants in the challenge visit : A to Z Challenge

Y for Yatras in Himachal.

This post is written for A to Z Challenge.

Y for Yatras in Himachal

Mani Mahesh Lake with Pilgrim

Pilgrim Yatras means a visit to a Pilgrim station on foot, and are integral part of Himachal. And Kailash Parbat is revered as the most sacred Pilgrim by Hindus. It is believed that there are total seven Kailash mountains. The Mansarovar Kailash in Tibet is well known to all. Others are Adi Kailash in Pithoragarh district of Uttrakhand, Amarnath Kailash in J&K, Kinner Kailash in Kinnaur, Mani Mahesh Kailash in Chamba, Sri Khand Kailash in Shimla. The seventh one is believed to be Boorha Kailash and is yet to be located.

Three yatras fall in Himachal and are discussed here. 

1. Mani Mahesh Yatra starting from Bharmour in Chamba to Mani Mahesh Lake (also called Dal lake , Mani Mahesh) in Pir Panjal range at height of 4080 m, the abode of Lord Shiva.

The Yatra starts from Lakshminarayan Temple in Chamba and ends at the Manimahesh Lake in Bundhil valley. The holy trek or Yatra starts about fifteen days after the festival of Janmashtami in Aug - Sept. The religious sanctity of this place is next to the Lake Manasarovar. The Manimahesh Kailash peak stands high close to the lake.

Mani Mahesh Lake

The route to Manimahesh is via Chamba, Bharmour and Hadsar. Motorable road is up to Hadsar after which one has to cover on foot about 13 km of steep climb by the banks of Manimahesh Ganga. It originates from the Manimahesh Kailash peak. The yatra is dawned by pilgrims walking barefoot along the rocky path, singing Bhajans and praying ecstatically to Lord Shiva. After reaching Manimahesh Lake, they take holy dips in the lake water. After culmination of the Yatra, one visits the ancient temple of Chatrari, located between Bharmaur and Chamba. One has to be really physically fit to take this Yatra.

Another less frequented trekking route originates from Holi, which is connected to Chamba

As per legend the name Manimahesh refers a jewel (Mani) on Lord Shiva's crown. Locals believe that the moon-rays reflected from the jewel and can be seen from Manimahesh Lake on clear full-moon nights.

2. Sri Khand Kailash Yatra - Sri Khand Kailash is situated at around 6k m. The Yatra usually happens with the Ashada Poornima or, full moon day of June to July.

The yatra can be started from Bathad, Gushani, Jeori and Jaon. The easiest and most travel starts from Jaon Village of Kullu district. Jaon is 167 Km. from Shimla and can be reached by road. The trek starts from Jaon from the temple of goddess Shakti. The foot travel is approx 64 to 74 km depending upon two trekking tracks available passing through dense forests, water streams, sprawling meadows and lofty mountains. The climb is difficult and offers a panoramic view. 3 Km. from Jaon there is village called Singh Gad, which was named after a brave man who dared to live their and established a village. Singh Gad is the last habitat of civilization on this route and Sri Khand Kailash is a minimum three full days trek from here. Its a very tough yatra and most yatris  return from first stop itself.

A typical Sri khand Kailash trek one way has on first day 12km Jaun to Taacharu. approx 8 – 9 hrs. Next day it is Taacharu to Parvati Baag 13.5 Kms in 9-10 hrs. and  finaly Parvati Baag to Shrikhand  6 Kms in 4 hrs.

Sri Khand  Kailash

Legend behind Sri Khand Kailash : It is believed that there was a demon named Bhasmasur who worshipped Shiva for many years which made Lord Shiva happy  and he asked Bhasmasur to ask for anything. Bhasmasur asked for the power of burning by just  placing his hand on the head of anybody. Lord Shiva blessed him with the power. Bhasmasur became so proud that he tried to burn the Lord himself when Shiva ran and hid himself in a cave near Nirmand at Deo Dhank. There after Lord Vishnu came to rescue Shiva.In the process Vishnu incarnated himself as a beautiful lady Mohini and asked Bhasmasur to dance with her. Bhasmasur got mesmerised and so involved that Mohini could cleverly got Bhasmasur place his hand on his own head  thus turn to ashes. 

After this all the God’s reached Deo Dhank to look for Lord Shiva who had detained himself under the web in the cave. It was very difficult to get him released. So Lord Shiva used a secret route and emerged as Shakti Roop at Shrikhand Mountain from cave at Dev Dhank.

When lord Shiva was getting out from Shrikhand Mountain, it was accompanied by a great blast and only the present Shrikhand Shivling is as the remains. On the way to Shrikhand top one can find big boulders that look like as the part of any big mountain. At Shrikhand there is main peak (Shivlinga) dedicated to Lord Shiva. Opposite to it are another big boulders revered as Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesh. Behind the Shrikhand peak  is a peak named as Kartikeya Parvat.

3. Kinner Kailash Yatra :The Kinnaur Kailash is locally known as Kinner Kailash and is at a height of 6050 meters and is considered as sacred by both Hindu and Buddhist Kinnauris. 'Kinner Kailash' is considered winter residence of Lord Shiva. It is said that Lord Shiva conduct a meeting of all Devi-Devtas on Kinner Kailash Top in month of January. The Yatra or trek to Kinner Kailash Starts from July end to August. At the time of Janmashtmi 10 days special arrangement are made for food and shelter on the top.  Journey starts. 

The Kinner Kailash Trek is of two to three days and starts from Tangling which is a small village spread across one small rivulet with around 100 homes and a beautiful temple dedicated to the local deity Nag Devta. The village is full of orchards and seasonal vegetables with cheerful hospitable people. It can be reached in two ways i.e. by crossing the Jhoola pul at Powari ( which is very thrilling) or by dirt road and crossing the Shontong Bridge over the Sutlej.

A typical yatra from Base Camp of Tangling Village (where one can reach by bus/car from Shimla approx 270 km) will have first day Tangling Village to Ashiqui Park about 9 kms in approx 6 hrs and night stay at a cave. On the second day the yatra starts early morning to reach the Shivling point covering 10 kms in about 8 to 9 hrs crossing Bheem dwar and Parvati Kund on the way. Next day by about 9 am. After visit the return starts in the same way.

Kinnaur Kailash

That's all from Y next is Z.

For other posts on Himachal written as part of A to Z Challenge : List of post on Himachal Pradesh written as part of A to Z challenge.

Aditya Sinha

For other participants in the challenge visit : A to Z Challenge

W for Weekend tourist destinations in HP

This post is written for A to Z Challenge.

W for Weekend tourist destinations in HP

Himachal is at a very approachable distance from the plains. It is also connected by one of the best roads. So many of its hill station becomes an apt weekend destination when you can just rush away from the city life and spend a day in peace and scenic beauty,  then return for your work fresh and rejuvenated.  

Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Some of these sites are Dharamshala,  Mcleodganj and Dalhousie in Kangra and Chamba region. All these are at a distance of about 110 KM from Pathankot in Punjab and can be reached in about 2 to 3 hrs drive.  I have already discussed about the activities and places of interest in these Dharamshala,  Mcleodganj in my earlier posts. Dharamshala / Mcleodganj can also be reached in five hours drive from Chandigarh which is about 270 kms. 

Mc Leod Ganj Market

Dalhousie is about 120 km from Pathankot in Chamba. Being very close to the plains of Punjab it was established in 1854 by the Britishers in India as a summer retreat for its troops and bureaucrats. It is situated in the Dhauladhar mountain range at height of 2700 mt and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The best time to visit is in the summer, and the peak tourist season is from May to September. Scottish and Victorian architecture is prevalent in the bungalows and churches in the town. It is the gateway to the ancient Chamba Hill State (now Chamba district).

Gandhi Chowk Dalhousie

One can just relax in Dalhousie and stroll in the mall to rejuvenate or do shopping in the Sadar Bazaar. The Churches especially St. Patrick church, here are also worth spending some time. Aside one can always spend time in the following places as well.


Khajjiar : Often referred to as Mini Switzerland is worth a visit for its mesmerising scenic beauty.

Khajjiar

Dainkund Peak: is the highest mount in Dalhousie from where one can enjoy 360° view of the entire valley. The sound of the breeze passing through the trees makes a musical sound, due to which this peak has also acquired the name, the singing hill.
The top of this hill is occupied by the Indian Air Force and from there a left turn takes us to the Pholani Devi Temple. One of the most interesting facts about this temple is that, except a trident there is nothing inside the temple premises. In addition, one  can also enjoy trekking on this hill.

Kalatop and Kalatop Forest :  It is a wildlife sanctuary just 6 km from Dalhousie. The entire forest is covered with the thick foliage of deodar trees and is inhabited by Leopard, Bear, Deer, Squirrel, Barking Goral, Serow, Langur, Jackal and Himalayan Black Marten etc.The other vegetation in this sanctuary are blue pine & fir.

From Chandigarh one can also go to Kasauli and Shimla in about four hours. 

Shimla

Kasauli : is a cantonment area just 65 km from Chandigarh en route to Shimla. and can be reached in hardly 2 hrs drive from here. One can enjoy the colonial architecture of the british era or can stroll on the lower and upper mall here. Aside from this one can temples like Monkey Point,  Nihri Temple, Churches and Gurudwara.

Kasauli

Manki point is situated in 'The Air Force Station' near the Lower Mall region about 4 kilometer from the center of town. According to myth at the Ramayana while Lord Hanuman was returning from the Himalayas after acquiring "Sanjivani Booty",touched the hill by one of His foot. Therefore top of the hill is in foot shape. On starry and clear night the stunning view of Chandigarh is seen from Manki Point. Cameras And Cell phones are not permitted inside the station and need to be given at the station gate. 

Manki Point

Manali can also be reached as a weekend destination from Chandigarh. It is at about 250 km and can be reached by overnight Volvo buses.

Manali

All these location can be reached by overnight Volvo (and private tourist buses) from Delhi as well.

So plan your weekends in these hill retreats. I can bet even if you visit repeatedly there would something new to be done always. 

That's all from W. Next is X.

For other posts on Himachal written as part of A to Z Challenge : List of post on Himachal Pradesh written as part of A to Z challenge.

Aditya Sinha

For other participants in the challenge visit : A to Z Challenge