Embark on a Himalayan adventure! From serene monasteries to thrilling treks, discover 6 unforgettable experiences this year. Read on for a soul-rejuvenating journey!
The Himalayas, our mighty northern neighbor,
beckons! Forget those usual holiday destinations, this year, head to the mountains for an experience that will rejuvenate your soul and leave you breathless (literally, at times, thanks to the altitude!).
From serene monasteries to thrilling treks, the Himalayan region offers something for everyone. We've curated a list of six unforgettable experiences you simply must have in the Himalayas this year. So, pack your bags, grab your warmest shawl, and let's get started!
Find Your Inner Peace in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj:
Dharamshala, and its charming upper suburb, McLeod Ganj, is where the Dalai Lama resides. The main attraction is undoubtedly the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the Dalai Lama's temple. Even if you are not Buddhist, the serene atmosphere and the monks chanting will bring peace.
Take a stroll through the colourful streets, lined with shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and warm clothing. Learn about Tibetan culture and try some delicious local food at the many small restaurants.
Consider taking a meditation class - in one of the quite monasteries, to delve deeper into mindfulness. A visit to the Norbulingka Institute, dedicated to preserving Tibetan art and culture, is also a must. This place is a true haven for peace lovers and those seeking a cultural immersion.
Learn the local language a bit, and greet the people using these. A visit here is a must.
Trek to the Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand:
Imagine walking through a valley carpeted with a million wildflowers in every color imaginable. That's exactly what awaits you at the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a trekker's paradise, open to visitors from June to October.
The moderate trek takes you through lush meadows, alongside gushing streams, and past snow-capped peaks. Keep an eye out for rare and endangered Himalayan flora, including orchids, poppies, and daisies. The best time to visit is during the monsoon months when the valley is in full bloom.
Remember to obtain the proper permits before starting your trek. It's a colourful feast for the eyes and a refreshing escape from the city’s concrete streets. Pack your camera because they will be needed. Book your tours in advance to avoid any last minute hassles.
So, take a look at the tours and book them or you can also book offline.
Experience the Serenity of Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh:
Located in the remote state of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang Monastery is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world after the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Perched atop a mountain, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Home to hundreds of monks, the serene atmosphere of the monastery is truly captivating. Explore the various halls, which are adorned with intricate murals, ancient scriptures, and statues of Buddha. Witness the morning prayers and experience the spiritual energy of this sacred place.
Getting to Tawang requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP), so be sure to arrange for that beforehand. Experiencing the rich Buddhist heritage and peaceful atmosphere of the monastery will touch your soul. The view from the top is something to capture.
Do visit the local markets to witness the culture and enjoy shopping.
Go River Rafting in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand:
For the adventure junkies, Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," also offers thrilling river rafting experiences. The Ganges River provides the perfect setting for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Choose from various rafting stretches, ranging from easy to challenging, depending on your experience level. Enjoy the rush of the rapids as you navigate through the turbulent waters, surrounded by the stunning Himalayan foothills.
There are also many camps along the banks to provide for more experience. Apart from the river rafting, there is yoga too, so that you can purify yourself. This will provide an excellent boost.
Enjoy the Scenic Beauty of Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh:
Spiti Valley, a cold desert mountain valley high in the Himalayas, is a landscape of stark beauty where rugged mountains meet clear blue skies. This beautiful location is ideal for a road trip. Visit the Key Monastery one of the oldest sites and the highest monasteries.
If you want to see stars, visit the highest village in the world which is Komic, for amazing astrophotography in the nights. Chandratal Lake, a crescent-shaped lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, is another must-visit.
The remote location and challenging terrain make Spiti Valley a truly unforgettable destination. You can take a bike ride around, and see the place. If you are going with your kids, it will be a great experience.
With the scenic landscape, you will be taking memories with you which will last forever.
Take a Ride on the Toy Train from Kalka to Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:
Step back in time and experience the charm of a bygone era by taking a ride on the historic Kalka-Shimla Toy Train.
This narrow-gauge railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meanders through picturesque valleys, over arched bridges, and through dark tunnels, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The train journey is slow-paced, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the landscape at your own leisure. This little train makes you revisit colonial India and the slow life of mountains. The ride is especially magical during the winter months when the mountains are covered in snow.
It is a truly captivating experience. Kids enjoying here are a common sight. So, let the kids enjoy!
These are just a few of the many unforgettable experiences that await you in the Himalayan region. So, what are you waiting for?
Pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime! Remember to respect the local culture and environment, and leave only footprints behind. Enjoy your Himalayan adventure! Be careful when travelling and be with your family.
AI Generated Content. Glance/InMobi shall have no liability for the content
