African Safari - Enchanting Wildlife

African Safari - Enchanting Wildlife

One of the main reasons why people travel to Africa is to see the Big Five - the African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard, and the White/Black rhinoceros.

However, one of the most frequently asked questions we get is which destination offers the best chance to see all five species?  

To answer this question, You got to explore African safari by all means.

The Sabi Sand Game Reserves are stunning and popular of course, as are places like the Okavango Delta, the Serengeti, Moremi, Masai Mara and Chobe to name just a few of the more well-known destinations. 

There are places like MalaMala and Londolozi in the Sabi Sand where Big Five sightings are almost guaranteed as is the case in KwaZulu Natal at Phinda and Madikwe Game Reserve in North West Province.

These destinations are somewhat pricey though and if you are looking for something a little more affordable then there is nothing wrong with Kruger, Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park or Mkhuze.

If I had to choose one out of all of these I think it would be MalaMala but if the price was an issue then I would go with Mkhuze - visit in July, August or September.

Thats all about Africa...Lets hit the Jungle now

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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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Camel Safari in Bikaner

Adventure Travel

It would be a pity to leave Rajasthan without enjoying a ride on the ship of the desert. Camel rides are notoriously bumpy affairs, but it’s more than likely that by the end of the ride you’ll have become accustomed to that high perch and rhythmic sway. Bikaner is a good place to enjoy a camel safari amidst the vast expanse of the desert. Combine this with a sojourn at a desert camp, where you can stay in tastefully furnished tents and dine al fresco under the starry canopy.

Avoid the blister of the desert summers by going on a camel safari between the September and March.

Camel safaris are a good source of income in the desert. The height of the camel enables you to catch a good view beyond the fences and walls. Wandering about the narrow lanes, you get a sense of people’s everyday lives and domestic routines in the most delightfully intimate way.

The camel safari is all about visiting, the local rustic villages with decorated huts, spending nights below the twinkling stars, visiting magnificent palaces, deserted forts and ancient temples. Camel safaris are custom-made to suit the needs of every traveler. There are short safaris arranged for a few hours, for a weekend and longer ones from 4 to 15 days. The price varies from $ 25 to $ 30 per day.

The intricate filigree work in the havelis (palaces) of Bikaner glow like gold. The architecture of the fort, the havelis, the houses themselves are beautifully done. The entire camel safari is the most treasured souvenir that tourists carry along with them in their memories.


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Trekking in Zanskar

Adventure Travel

Of all the trans-Himalayan valleys Zanskar is the most isolated valley. This kingdom which lies in the northwest Indian Himalayas is a very ancient and secluded one. Winter temperatures here can dip as low as -30 C or more, making it the one of the coldest places on earth. There are just about 10,000 occupants in the isolated villages of Zanskar. Summer trek in Zanskar would cost $ 450 and winter trek $ 700.

Trekking in the Zanskar ranges could be quiet strenuous. The deep gorge and high-rise mountains that surround Zanskar are stunning. Camping in the gorge besides a rushing stream, among aromatic shrubs and wild roses is deeply restful. The sharp zigzagging mountainous path of Zanskar will make you aware of the silence that linger around here.

There are plenty of birds and animals in the way: large hares, a skittish mouse hare, beautiful painted chakors, a few redstarts and then phias (Himalayan marmots), which are absolutely adorable. One would definitely fall in love with the wild flowers carpeting in the meadows. It is bizarre to find heady scent of wild roses here, since the landscape here is sere and rocky and hardly a blade of grass is seen, yet here there is unmistakable presence of rose garden, which are tall, wild bushes bursting with flowers.

The spectacular monasteries that we come across while trekking are surrounded by naked lunar hills. The various peaks are surrounded by dramatic landscapes. The climbs and dips past ancient fortresses, wide meadows and braided streams leave you totally exhausted. The view from the peak is spectacular: tall, snow covered peaks fall away endlessly on all sides. The Zanskar trek thus forces you to define the world silence.

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Forest Trails at Periyar National Park

Adventure Travel

India’s oldest and best-known National Park, the Periyar National Park is 145 km from Madurai and can also be accessed from Munnar or from Kottayam. Though this was developed by the erstwhile Trancore Princely State in 1934, it expanded to the present size of 780 sq km and was named the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950. The entry fee to Periyar National Park is $7.

Here, wildlife can be observed from special boats which surf the waters of the lake, leaving the animals undisturbed by the human visitors. The sanctuary is a part of Project Tiger. Wild elephants, bears, sambhar, bison and spotted deer, as well as many screeching monkeys are the animals that one can see near the lake. People basically come here to the watch the Indian elephant’s abluting in the Periyar Lake.

Birds such as the kingfishers, racket-tailed Drongoes, cormorants, hornbill are found here. Visitors trekking in the Periyar National Park have frequently spotted a python and a King Cobra.

The cardamom hill which is in the vicinity of Periyar is worth exploring. October to June is the best time to visit Periyar national Park. The chances of sighting animals after the heavy rains are slim since animals come to the lakes for water only after water sources in the interior of the forest have exhausted.

There is a picturesque lake in the centre of the park; this provides a constant source of water to the habitats of the park. The experience of inhaling and feeling the fresh and untainted air emitting from the deciduous forest of Periyar national Park compel the tourists to revisit the park. 

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White Water Rafting at Rishikesh

White Water Rafting at Rishikesh

Adventure Travel

This pilgrim’s haven is also Mecca for river-rafting enthusiasts. The river Ganga comes gushing down from the mountains, winding down through Kaudiyala and Shivpuri before it reaches Rishikesh. Here it slows down and then bursts into white water rapids as it descends into the plains. There are several adventure agencies offering packages for whitewater rafting-and all rafting operators have riverside camps with tents for the overnight stay. All equipments for white water rafting come along with the package and they charge $40 per person.

Rafting in Rishikesh is best enjoyed between November and March; this is subject to winter temperatures. Such camps are environmentally friendly - no detergent, no chewing gum, no plastic and no electricity. Only tents, gas lanterns and sandpits!

The drive to Rishikesh, via Roorkee and Haridwar whizzes past interesting scenery like sugarcane plantations and soot-choked chimneys.

White water rafting in Rishikesh begins as early as 5 am. The rafts begin their tryst in the icy, unpredictable currents. Teamwork takes an all-new meaning, while rafting, as the lives of rafters depend on it. Whenever the raft overturns, there are some comic attempts to rescue co-rafters. Conquering rapids are met with victorious shouts of joy.

Situated 30 kms from Rishikesh, Shivpuri and Kaudiyala are ideal starting points for these daylong and half-day rafting trips with class III and class IV rapids. These rapids are graded in accordance with the complexity of the run. No wonder that Rishikesh would be the perfect destination for its fair share of thrills, chills and spill overs. The idea behind organizing these activities is to experience adventure and thrill.

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Mountain Biking in Ladakh

Adventure Travel

When traveling by bike, you will get to see the best of that region with the level of intimacy unmatched by most other modes of travel. Trails can be matched to everyone’s riding ability.

Mountain biking can hog you to limelight. The treacherous ride en route to Ladakh is full of surprises. This adventurous mountain biking journey takes you to the world’s greatest motor biking roads. The journey after Manali has unforgiving roads. One has to ride on roads at heights where clouds usually hang out.

The journey takes you over the highest passes in the world, including Rohtang La, Baralacha La, Lachlung La and Tanglang La and the grand Daddy of them all, the Khardung La, standing proud with its head thrust 18,380 ft in the air. This is considered to be the best motorcycling road in the world. Mountain Biking for 14 days duration would cost $2600.

One will have their share of falls when one comes across different kinds of terrain. The numerous hairpin bends test the true ability of the rider as well as the bike. The water crossings enroute can be a thoroughly bone chilling experience.

The rough road from Keylong to Sarchu is a tough battle; however the physical hardship fades away into nothings because of its surroundings. The long winding roads, snow-capped mountains, green valleys blooming with flowers can rapt you with the beauty of the land.

As you reach the destination a sense of pride will engulf you for you have bravely handled treacherous roads, have ridden over snow and ice and crossed the mighty Kardung La, the world’s highest motorable road. 

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