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Trekking
Celebrated in Hindu mythology and religion, the Garhwal Himalayas are said to be the "Abode of the Gods". The river Ganges takes its source in this remote massif, at the sacred shrine of Gangotri, and rushes down to the plains in a torrential fury.
Very few trekkers follow this itinerary which will lead to one of the most important spots of Hindu spirituality, where you will experience a strange atmosphere of religious fervour.
From Kedarnath, where hundreds of pilgrims arrive from all regions of India, the path proceeds at first along the sacred Bhagirathi river, then through dense forests and grassy areas as far as Lata.
From there it is a 5-hour drive to Gangotri, where the second part of the trek starts. Near Gaumukh, close to the Source of the Ganges, you will experience the strange view of half-naked saddhus in the lotus position, meditating on the bank of the bubbling stream pouring out the glacier.
Further up, Tapovan is a grassy area with numerous brooks, surrounded by snowy peaks.North of the Great Himalayan range, amongst a tangled knot of jagged mountains, lies a rugged and fascinating land, the once independent kingdom of Zanskar.
Sandwiched between the Indus Valley and the main crest of the Indian Himalaya, this remote and inaccessible setting, well guarded by snowy mountain passes, has kept alive an archaic form of Tibetan Buddhism which flourishes in chain of far-flung monasteries, most of which occupy spectacular fortified locations, high on rocky ridges in isolated valleys.
Lovely high meadow camp sites and dry desert land, high passes and snow-capped peaks stunning scenery, Buddhist monasteries and picturesque villages with their irrigated fields of barley and potatoes, and fascinating encounters with the Zanskari people turn a trek in this area into an unforgettable experience.
Camel Safari
The ship of the desert, the camel, was domesticated thousands of years ago primarily for the purpose of making tedious journeys through the unrelenting Thar Desert. So, how would you like a camel safari - to explore the eccentricities of Rajasthan on the back of the most native guide?
You may go for a short safari through a typical Rajasthani village or a long-distance expedition lasting a few days.
The best times for travelling are the cooler parts of the day, the mornings and evenings.The sights en route will captivate you and become a part of your most treasured memories. There may be barren land for as far as the eyes can see.
The sea of yellow shimmering sand looks extraordinary. Closer to the village you can see herds of cattle and sheep roaming around purposelessly.
Watch the children trotting off to school, while their mothers prepare their afternoon meal on a dung-fire. Stop over for a taste of the authentic Rajasthani food. The hospitable men and women will be at your service, eager to fulfill your every request.
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