Jeita Grotto – Lebanon

Amazing Natural Wonders

The Jeita grotto is two separate but interconnected limestone caves spanning an overall length of 9 km. The caves are situated in the Nahr-Al-Kalb valley within the locality of Jeita, 18km north of Beirut. Though inhabited in prehistoric times, the lower cave was not discovered until 1836 by Rev. William Thompson. It can be visited by boat & its channels and Underground River provides fresh drinking water to more than million Lebanese. In 1958, Lebanese speleologists discovered the upper galleries 60m above the lower cave which have been accommodated with an access tunnel and a series of walkways to enable tourist’s safe access without disturbing the natural landscape. The upper galleries house the world’s largest stalactite. The galleries are composed of series of chambers the largest of which peaks at a height of 120m. Jeita Grotto plays a vital socio-economic & cultural role. It’s a finalist in the new 7 Wonders of Nature competition.

The Jeita upper cave has an overall length of 2130m of which 750m are accessible to visitors via specially conceived walkway; access to the remainder of the cave is restricted to prevent ecological damage which may occur due to flocking tourists. The upper cave consist a great concentration of a variety of crystallized formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, columns, mushrooms, ponds, curtains & draperies. The upper gallery is famous for its formations, lit by effective lighting systems. It is entered through 117m long concrete tunnel. The part accessible by visitors has three huge chambers. First white chamber second is Red due to the color of formations. White dripstones are pure calcite without defilement; the red color is given by red oxide in small amount. The white chamber is medium sized, but has the most impressive formations of the cave; the Red chamber is 106 m high & 30-50m wide. The third chamber is biggest of all the threes &has a height of almost 120m. the longest stalactite in the world is located in jeita’s white chamber; measures 8.2m

The lower gallery which has an overall length of 6200m is located 60m below upper gallery. It is traversed by smooth underwater river & lake (the “Dark Lake”). The river is broken up by several small cataracts & rapids. The lower cave’s “Thompson’s Cavern” is a massive hall with a impressive speleothemes such as Eagle Obelisk stalagmite. Other halls in the lower gallery include Pantheon , grand chaos, & Shangri-La. Visitors are transported in lower gallery by electric boats for a distance of 500m. in winter the lower level is closed, when water level is too high.

In 1961, Jeita became national symbol when Lebanese authorities issued a stamp to promote tourism. 

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Dead Sea - Jorden

Amazing Natural Wonders,

Dead Sea is a salt late between the West Bank / Palestine / Israel to the west & Jordan to the East. At 420 meters below sea level, its shores are the lowest points on the earth that are on dry land. With 30% salinity. It is 8.6 times saltier than ocean. The salinity makes harsh environment where animals cannot flourish; hence it’s name. it is 67 Km long & 18km wide at widest points. It lies in the Jordan Rift valley & it’s main tributary is the Jordan River. 

The Dead Sea has attracted visitors from around the globe for thousands of years. Biblically, it was a place of refuge for King David. It was one of the world’s first health resorts (for Herod the great), & it has been the supplier of wide variety of products; from balms for Egyptian mummification to potash for fertilizers. People also used salt & minerals from Dead Sea to create cosmetics & herbal sachets.

The Dead Sea’s climate offers year-round sunny skies & dry air with low pollution. It has very minimal rainfall & the temp. avgas .somewhere between 32-39 Celsius in summer & 20-23 Celsius in winter. The region has weakened ultraviolet radiation, particularly the UVB (erythrogenic rays ),  an atmosphere characterized by high oxygen content due to the high barometric pressure. 

The dead sea has become major center for health research & treatment for several reasons.  The mineral content of the water, the very low content of pollens and other allergens in the atmosphere, the reduced UV component of solar radiation, & the higher atmospheric pressure at this great depth each have specific health effects. E.g. persons suffering reduced respiratory functions from diseases such as cystic fibrosis seem to benefit from the increased atmospheric pressure.

Sufferers of the skin disorder psoriasis also benefit from the ability to sunbathe for long period in the area due its positions below sea level & subsequent result that many of the sun’s harmful UV rays are reduced.  Thus, the region’s climate & low elevation have made it popular center for therapies mentioned below :

Climatotherapy :  Treatment which exploits local climatic features such as temperature, humidity, sunshine, barometric pressure.

Heliotherapy : Treatment that exploits biological effects of sun’s radiation. 

Thalassotherapy : Treatment that exploits bathing in Dead Sea Water.

Due to the popularity therapeutic & healing properties several companies have also shown interest in manufacturing & supplying dead sea salt as raw material for body & skin care products.

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Iguazu Falls – Brazil

Amazing Natural Wonder

Iguazu falls are waterfalls of the Iguazu River located on the boarder of the Brazilian state of Parana & Argentine province of Misiones. The waterfall system consists of 275 falls along 2.7 km (1.67 miles) of the Iguazu River. Some of the individual falls are up to 82 meters (269 ft) in height, though the majority is about 64 meters (210 ft). Devil’s throat, a U-shaped 82 meters high, 150 meters wide & 700 meters long (490 by 2300 ft cataract, is the most impressive of all, & marks the border between Argentina & Brazil. 2/3 of falls are within the Argentine territory.  About 900 meters of the 2.7km length does not have water flowing over it. The edge of the basalt cap recedes only 3mm per year. The water of lower Iguazu collects in a canyon that drains in to the Parana River in Argentina, shortly downstream from the Itaipu dam.

The falls can be reached from the two main towns on either side of the falls: Foz du Iguacu in the Brazilian state of Parana, & Puerto Iguacu in the Argentine province of Misiones as well as from Ciudad del Este (Paraguay) on the other side of the Parana River from Foz du Iguacu. The falls are shares by the iguazu national park (Argentina) & Iguazu national park (Brazil). Theses falls were designated UNESCO world heritage sites in 1984 & 86, respectively. The fall area provides opportunities for water sports & rock climbing.

Upon seeing Iguazu, the United State’s First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt reportedly exclaimed, “Poor Niagara”. Iguazu is also often compared with South Africa’s Victoria Falls which separates Zambia & Zimbabwe. Iguazu, however, affords better views & walkways & its shape allows for spectacular vistas. At one point a person can stand & be surrounded by 260 degrees of waterfalls. The Devil’s throat has water pouring in to it from three sides. Likewise, because Iguazu is split in to many relatively small falls, one can view this portion at a time. Victoria does not allow this as it is essentially one waterfall that falls in to a canyon & its too immense to appreciate at once. In some of the movies this falls were features Moonraker, The mission & Indiana Jones, The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. 

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Trekking in Gangotri

Adventure Travel
 
Trekking in the Himalayas can be an experience no mountains on this planet can duplicate. The beauty of simply being surrounded by mountains, snow and clouds makes you ecstatic.

The environment of Gangotri is a totally different one. The gurgling and tossing sound of River Bhagirathi is very melodious. In this land one will find saints all around and some of them mediating in their huts. The sound of Bhagirathi with Mantras in the background creates an extraordinary atmosphere. This is what makes this place lonely yet lively from the rest of the world.



The trek from Gangotri to Gaumukh should be ideally done during June to September, since this place is filled with snow other than these months. The approx. cost would be in the vicinity of $ 900. As you trek to the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, you will realize that the mountains remain dazzling white even under the Sun. Bhujabasa on the way is the only place take which has provisions for meals and overnight stay.

The path leading to Gaumukh is full of boulders and rocks which makes it every important for trekkers to be vigilant. The river Bhagirathi begins to flow from a cave made up of glacier. This glacier is 4255 m above sea-level. The crystal clear water of this sacred river has a very divine taste.

Gangotri is bounded by the grandeur of nature. Its dense forest comprising of deodar, oak, pine and rhododendron trees gives it a very primitive look. This trek is for the zealous adventure lovers who are eager to experience rock climbing, mountain climbing, boulder jumping and glacier traversing.

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Paragliding in Manali

Adventure Travel
 
Hand gliding and parachuting when combined is called paragliding. A paraglider has to run down the hill at 40 degree slope, the running results in air filling in the columns of the keel, this allow the glider to take off. The Solang valley slopes are perfectly made for paragliding.

Paragliding is organized all round the year in Kullu valley in areas like Solang Bijli Mahadev, Marhi and Fatru. Generally two types of flights are offered; in the short flight the inexperienced client is taken above 100-150 ft high and they join the pilot in the double seated paraglide. It gives you the thrilling experience of viewing the surrounding with the pilot taking care of maneuvering the glider. This flight lasts for one or one and a half minute. On the other hand high flight is conducted by experienced pilots and this flight last for 20-30 minutes.

When the weather conditions are perfect it is possible to stay in the air for more than three hours and rise to a height of 3000 m. The geographical conditions of Manali are conducive for all grades of paragliding. Any person above 15 years of age and weighing between 45 to 85 kgs can paraglide. Training is a very important part of this sport. February to June and September to November are the best seasons for paragliding. A five-day course cost about $135.

One experiences ethereal serenity while sailing in air above the ground. Enjoy the high view of Manali from height, an experience which is surreal and peaceful. The bird’s eye view of the beautiful scenery below gives the gilder an exhilarating feeling.

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Trekking in Sikkim

Adventure Travel
 
Sikkim, the undisclosed land of the Himalayas is a fabulous place for treks. One can sense the fresh and crisp air lingering in the atmosphere while trekking. As one passes through the valleys and gorges the beauty of the mountains unfolds before the eyes. Trekking to Kangcendzonga is extremely challenging and captivating, but a worthy one for it provides an opportunity to see nature at its vibrant best.

March to May and September to December are the best time for trekking in Sikkim. Trekking amidst the gorgeous orchids, the kaleidoscopic birds and butterflies make you feel exhilarated. Numerous wonderful trekking routes are available in Sikkim. These treks pass through spectacular gompas, colorful hamlets and interesting alpine forests which have abundant flora and fauna. The estimate cost of per day would be $100.

Namchi which is South Sikkim’s district head quarters offers unparallel views of the white-crested mount of Kangchendzonga and is a convenient base for the short treks. The walk from Rabangla to Mainom top winds past ancient forests which is teeming with birdlife.

The Barsai Rhododendron Sanctuary is a scenic, easy trek; its protected forest is home to silver fir, hemlock, magnolia and of course, rhododendron which are in glorious bloom in March and April. The trek with the best mountain views is from Dzongri to Goecha La. You can even see the Kanchendzonga reflected in the glacial lakes.

At every twist and turn in the path you come across another natural wonder and you marvel at the bounty nature has bestowed upon this region. Trekking in Sikkim is an experience of a lifetime.

Scuba Diving at Andaman Islands

Adventure Travel
 
Scuba Diving at Andaman Island is a memorable lifetime experience. Andaman waters offer a fascinating world of under-water marine life. The coral reef ecosystem of Andaman Islands is considered to be the richest in the world. All these attractions can be explored only through Scuba diving. In these islands, it would cost in the vicinity of $70 per day.

The specialty of these coral reefs and underwater formations are, they have remained uncontaminated by human activity. Most of the islands are bounded by fringing reefs, which are hundred meters wide and are separated from the coast by a lagoon of parallel width. Huge pelagic and a wide variety of sharks are found in abundance in these waters. Large shoals of Hammerhead are found at a distance from the reefs and other types of fishes such as nurse and leopard sharks, grey and whitetip are found closer to the shore.

The sea-beds of the Andaman Islands houses an array of marine treasure. The dazzling life of underwater flora and fauna, the mysterious remains of the sunken ships can be closely viewed and explored through scuba diving. The scuba diving society at Wandoor in the Andaman Islands provides ample opportunities for scuba diving to the tourists. Andaman scuba diving clubs provide training to amateurs.

Comparatively, Scuba diving in the Andaman Islands is an expensive affair. This is mainly because scuba diving has started gaining popularity recently and so it becomes difficult operating in fairly new places.

Andaman Islands make a good point for diving adventure. The good choice of wrecks and reefs make an incredible sight when explored under good visibility.

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Fishing at Cauvery Fishing Camp, Bheemeshwari

Adventure Travel

Cauvery fishing camp, Bheemeshwari which is located on the banks of the River Cauvery is the natural habitat to the famous Mahseer fish which is easily the most popular fish to catch among people who go fishing far away from the crowds, yet not very far for the average tourist to reach without too much effort. This place is quite unique and offers a lovely glimpse of nature.

This camp is rough, matchless and extremely beautiful. It is equally fascinating for non-fishing lovers of nature. The nature package here cost between $75 per person/day on twin sharing basis.

Bheemeshwari is about 100 km away from Bangalore. It is the most favorite weekend getaway of many. The majestic Mahseer are found in four different colors; pink, sliver, black and gold. The other fish that is found here are carp, catfish and other small sized ones.

The ideal months for angling here is between November and February. Every guest is offered a local guide. Being experienced local fishermen they can guide the tourists better. Fishing is done from early in the morning till midday and later in the evening from 4 pm till sunsets. Only 10 rods are permitted during a session.

Fly fishing, bait fishing and spinning are some of the techniques that are used here. Bheemeshwar fishing camps are a haven for people who prefer isolation. The catch and release system is a very popular activity in this fishing camp. Even a novice can try it under expert guidance.

Bheemeshwari fishing camp is the perfect place to get close to nature amidst luxury. 

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Mountaineering in Darjeeling

Adventure Travel
 
Darjeeling is the popular adventurous location for mountaineering. As there are many peaks and mountains to climb, it is a paradise destination for mountaineers. There are some reputed mountaineering institutes in Darjeeling. Climbing the higher peaks of Darjeeling needs tremendous strength, energy, vigor and zeal. One has to undergo tremendous training programmes in order to qualify. These courses would cost approximately $100.

The ideal period for climbing the mountains in Darjeeling is from June to September, since at this period Darjeeling remains unaffected by the climate changes. However, it is necessary to get used to the weather conditions before trying to climb the peaks.

In Darjeeling, the Karakoram Range provides some of the most stunning and difficult climbing points. The institute, which is the hub of all mountaineering activities, is located at an altitude of 6800 ft and they give a fantastic view of the Kanchanjunga. Mountaineers are immensely fascinated by Kanchanjunga.

People visiting Darjeeling can not only enjoy mountaineering but can also view the beautiful hills. Tourists can spend hours of pleasure and delight while they take a trip to Darjeeling.

Besides the Kanchanjunga, the Singalila Ridge also allures the mountaineers. Before you set off for mountaineering, one should consider few essential things such as extra clothing for changing, a map, sunglasses, extra food, first aid kit, lights with extra batteries etc.

Mountaineering in Darjeeling will enable you to explore and view the place from a totally different angle. The higher the altitude, the more spectacular the view gets. Yaks and snow leopards and the cuddly pandas on the high altitudes enliven the high snowy mountains.

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Camping at Kabini River Lodge Camps

Adventure Travel
 

Reportedly, one of the world’s best forest retreats. Located in the Nagarhole National Forest, the lodge offers a getaway that beats all getaways. Once upon a time this was a retreat of the erstwhile Maharajas; it has now been converted into a tasteful lodge for the discerning few. It offers you quiet luxury and the chance to see the striped king of the jungle.

This sanctuary lies on the banks of River Kabini amidst the forests of Karapur in the southern part of Nagerhole. The forest is home to the ferocious tiger, the graceful elephant and the antelopes. Deer, Bison, Egret, Cormorant, Stork, Python, Cobra, tortoise and crocodile are some of the wild inhabitants of the region.

Kabini River lodge is a wonderful getaway for lovers of nature. The backwaters of River Kabini are a perfect place for vacationing. Herds of elephants can be seen at a time in this kingdom of elephants.

Kabini River lodge can accommodate 50 people at a time. This well-equipped lodge styled in majestic designs has 14 spacious double rooms, 6 cottages and 5 tent cottages with attached baths. The provision of modern amenities will make your stay comfortable. The Kabini River flowing in the surrounding gives this place a paradisaical look. The package cost for two adults per night would cost $200, which is inclusive of meals and jungle safari.

Wildlife here can be view from the roofless jeep safaris. Elephant rides around the jungle would take approximately 45 minutes. The congregation of elephants on the riverbanks will make your eyes gleam. To cruise along the river, guest can either choose between a motorboat, a circular boat which is built with bamboos and buffalo skin or the motorboat.

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Forest Trails at Kaziranga National Park

Adventure Travel

Kaziranga holds an all-important place in the world wildlife atlas as the single significant gene pool of the greater one-horned Rhinoceros. It is perhaps the only park where the presence of the tiger is overshadowed by the other big animals-rhino, elephants and wild buffaloes.

Spread across 688 sq. km. and flanked by the river Diphlu River on one side and Nh 37 on the other, this national park was established in 1908 to protect the endangered one horned Rhinoceros. Other animals that can be seen here are the tiger, buffalo, swamp deer, hog deer, wild boar, Hoolock gibbon, capped langur and ratel (badger).

Rock python, monitor lizard, crested serpent eagle, fishing eagle, grey headed fishing eagle are frequently seen here. Mihimukhi is the entry point to the park and elephants can be hired from here to enter the sanctuary. The nearest railhead is Jakhalabandha which is at a distance of 43 km from Kaziranga.

There are over 1,500 one-horned rhinos now in Kaziranga-a major leap from the handful that was there in 1908. Extreme steps were taken to curb extensive poaching and hunting that was taking place here. Henceforth, there was to be no more hunting, nor any human habitation or cultivation within its confines.

The Kaziranga National Park is known for its diversity. It is home to some of the rare and endangered species. So, if you are a wildlife enthusiast, come to Kaziranga. But remember to leave fear behind, especially when you watch the one-horned rhino, the only surviving pre-historic animal. So get ready for a thrilling experience.

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Skiing in Gulmarg

Adventure Travel

Gulmarg takes immense pride in being the best ski resorts. Gulmarg is grandly known for skiing, as it houses Asia’s famous heli-skiing resort. Visiting Gulmarg during December will tempt you to ski on the thick blanket of snow. Skiing in Gulmarg is well-known because of Gandola Cable Car Lift. In all, there are 3 ski lifts and single chair lifts that give an excellent opening for novice and amateurs.

Skiing is an excellent fun-time recreation that commences during mid-December and continues till mid-April thereby enabling large group of tourists to have exciting hours of vacation. Gulmarg is one best place for individuals to learn skiing. Moreover, they are considered to be economical the world over. A full day of skiing with equipment and use of the Gondola cable car will cost you about $40-50 and that is assuming that you go all the way to the top at least twice.

Boasting of the highest ski slope in the world at approximately 13,400 ft above sea level, tourists from across the world are slowly making their way back to this proclaimed paradise to satiate their adventure spirits at rates that are inconceivably low.

For the uninitiated, skiing can be practiced on the beginner’s slope before heading off to the more advanced sections of the mountains. It is worth heading to the top just for the spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan range painted in varying hues of shadows and light. 

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