Monday, December 14, 2009

Lidder Valley






Lidder Valley:

Lidder Valley, inarguably the best of the Kashmir valleys, forms the north-eastern corner of the Kashmir vale. The valley, for its mild looks, serene air and the lush meadows, glaciers and snow-covered peaks dotting its 40 mile stretch, has been often compared with Scotland in appeal. The Lidder starts at Kolahoi glacier and along its length, encompasses other tourist hot spots like Amarnath Cave, Pahalgam, Mattan and Aishmuqam. It is a trekker’s paradise as well.

One can also take a solitary walk along the virgin pine forests and get lost in one's dream world. Watching the pristine waters of the mountain brooks amidst the sublimity of the Lidder Valley will surely make one rediscover one's soul.

Lidder Valley is also very close toAmarnath Shrine.

The entire valley is astounding for its mesmerizing beauty and hence has a large tourist inflow in the seasons. Lidder Valley is situated on the way to Pahalgam from Khannabal. There are regular bus services from Srinagar and Anantnag to Pahalgam. Nearest rail head is Jammu (96 km). Closest airport is Srinagar Airport.


Wednesday, November 25, 2009

PAHALGAM TO KOLAHOI GLACIER





PAHALGAM TO KOLAHOI GLACIER (J&K):

Mt.Kolahoi situated in the lidder valley of Kashmir is the highest peak in this division.It is also known as the Matterhorn of kashmir.This is the trekker’s favorite route and is one of the most extensively traveled one. This trek involves camping en route, as hotels etc. will be not easily available. Tents and other camping equipment should be got along.

On the 1st day from Pahalgam, the route goes to Aru, a small village on the banks of the Lidder River.

Day 2 sees you at Lidderwat, a beautiful campsite with breath taking scenery. Here, the Glacier stream meets the stream from Tarsar Lake. There are a couple of rest houses around for those interested.

The 3rd day is to walk up to the lake and back to Lidderwat. The Glacier is situated at 4000 meters and is quite a steep climb.

Day 4 is utilized in walking straight back to Pahalgam, covering the whole distance in a one-day trek.

One can extend the trek by a day by going to the Tansar Lake and back from Lidderwat.

One can also go to the Kulan valley in Sonemarg, if there are a couple of days to spare.

Day 1 Pahalgam to Aru 12 km

Day 2 Aru to Lidderwat 12 km

Day 3 Lidderwat/Kolahoi GlacierLidderwat 13 km

Day 4 Lidderwat to Pahalgam 24 km

Day 5 Sekiwas to Khemsar 10 km

Day 6 Khemsar to Kulan 10 km

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Monday, August 31, 2009

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Stok Kangri 20,130ft or 6000m trekking peak.......




Stok Kangri Peak:

It's a very challenging trek traverses the Ladakh mountains on a little-used route high above the Indus Valley,
and offers a chance to ascend Stok Kangri, a 20,130ft/6114m peak. 
The track approach from the west of Leh, climbing steeply from the Zanskar River towards the rugged Ladakh 
and Zanskar Range. 

This stark region of high passes and wild mountains is softened by the immense charm of the Ladakhi villages and their inhabitants. Trackkers cross one high pass after another, including the seldom-used Kang La where they have chance to ascend Palam Peak, a warm up for Stok Kangri. 

They can continue towards the spectacular scenery of the Stok Range, where we begin our ascent. The tough, but optional and non-technical climb provides stunning views extending across Ladakh to the Karakorams, the Himalaya and into Tibet.

How Reach Stok Kangri:

1.) Fly to Leh from Delhi or By Bus or Taxi.
2.) Drive to Choksi. Steep ascent to Kang La (5260m) and optional climb of Palam Peak (5360m) for superb views of the mountains.
3.) Cross Ganda La and Stok La to Stok Kangri Base Camp (5100m)
4.) Optional ascent of Stok Kangri (6114m) The route is non technical, but there is a short, exposed section near the summit. Those not attempting the peak can trek up to the glacier for stunning views.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Markha Valley...........




Markha Valley :

The Markha Valley is between the Ladakh and Zanskar ranges, behind the Himalaya. The wild and barren, yet hauntingly beautiful landscapes of this hidden land are often likened to Tibet - Ladhakh used to be known as 'Little Tibet'. 


Several monasteries and ruins are scattered along the trail to Markha. After Umlung the valley narrows and becomes a gorge just before Markha. This large village has a fort and a monastery perched on the northern hill. The gompa is reputed to be one of the oldest in Ladakh.

Skiu - Markha (13,078 FT/4,878M) : A very pleasant walk up one of the loveliest sections of the markha valley. Markha is one of the biggest in this valley. The way through woody bushes thickly along the river which is a spanned by several small bridges over which the trail marches to thinlespa.