About India

RAFTING

Location : Rivers Of Kumaon & Garhwal, Uttar Pradesh.
Suitable Period : March-May & September-November.
Specialty : Canoeing, Kayaking.  

ADVENTURE IN THE TURBULENT WATERS
The challenge of violent rivers is no less than that of the rugged mountains. The icy heights of the Himalayas are the source of some of India's mighty rivers. Fed by innumerable streams, they race along tortuous boulder-strewn beds, cutting deep gorges and breaking into silvery-white rapids.With the intricate network of mountain rivers flowing through a myriad of different colours of rocky gorges, forests, flowers and high mountain villages, the Garhwal and Kumaon Hills provide ideal locales for the perfect water adventure.

The sport of white water river rafting calls for a triumph over the swift swirling river, as it gushes past spectacular mountains. It is practised mainly in the upper reaches where the water is wild and white as it frothes & foams, crashing against narrow gorges, rocky outcrops and falls at deep gradients.

KINDS OF ADVENTURE IN RAFTING
All the rivers can be graded on the basis of the water stretches and the adeptness required, to negotiate their waters. The grading ranges from 1 to 6, starting from calm water to moderate flow to extremely torrential flows.

Canoeing:
There is, firstly, the pleasure of a gentle canoe trip in a lightweight alloy-metal craft, which holds two to three people. The gradient best suited for canoeing is the stage near the river's entry into the plains where the trip can be combined with moderate hiking and a naturalist holiday in the forest. For this, the suitable areas are Rishikesh, Dakpathar and the Ramganga in Corbett National Park.

Kayaking:
For the slightly more adventurous, kayaking is appealing as it enables innovation on the river by a solitary oarsman or two, seated in tandem. The degree of difficulty would depend on the river gradient and its rapids.

BEST TIME TO GO RAFTING
The suitable period for river running depends on the adequacy of water. September- November and March- April- May are most appropriate. The equipment required is ordinary outdoor gear, goggles, antiseptic cream and a liking for getting wet!

RAFTING IN GARHWAL
In Garhwal region, the sacred river Ganga offers the professional as well as the amateur, the exhilaration of white water rafting. The Alaknanda & Bhagirathi are the main tributaries of the Ganga and meet at Devprayag, frothing from their racy descent. Their waters are of grade IV to V, challenging the expert to savour the thrill.

Down river from Devprayag, the Ganga changes into a pool drop river. This stretch of almost 70 kms. is perfect for amateur and the novice, for here the river offers some fine grade III rapids and two grade IV 'golf course' 4 kms. below Shivpuri village; each followed by rapids, the 'wall' at Byasi and the deep and placid pools.

Sandy beaches line the river at intervals, allowing river rafters to pull up alongside. The slopes on either side are covered with oak, pine, spruce and fir, with the occasional village and its terraced fields dotting the landscape. Wildlife is visible at a distance, comprising mainly of spotted deer, monkey, leopard, while multi-hued butterflies flit among flowering bushes. Spiritual retreats and ashrams overlook the river and add to the spiritual experience.

RAFTING IN KUMAON
In kumaon, the Kali Ganga (Sharda) flows down from the Nepal border through Kumaon Hills. The Kali and the Gori rivers meet at Jauljibi, where the water volume increases, offering adventure to professionals. For over 117 kms. from Jauljibi to Tanakpur its rapids are grade IV and more. The tough 3 days of rafting should be done by professionals.Lower down among the forested slopes, the river become calmer offering the amateur a sporting challenge before flowing out into the plains of Uttar Pradesh. Mahakali Ganga River flows along the border between India and Nepal. A self-contained river journey as well as and expedition or mega trip upto Tanakpur can be undertaken. Rafting can also be undertaken through Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam in Mahakali River.

Potential Sites For White Water Rafting, Canoeing & Kayaking
There are many sites in garhwal and kumaon region of uttar pradesh that can be tapped as the perfect sites for providing the pleasure of water sports. There are quite a few places, especially in the Garhwal region, which have a latent potential as tourist recreation centres and some hold immense potential for professional rafting.

IN GARHWAL
River Yamuna:
Barkot to Bernigad. Both professional and tourist stretch.
Damta to Yamuna Bridge- both professional and tourist stretch.
Mori to Tuni - (Khoonigad) 30 kms tourist stretch.

River Alaknanda:
Kaliasaur to Srinagar- 16 kms. Tourist stretch.
Srinagar to Bagwan- 20 kms. Tourist stretch.
Kaliasaur to Rishikesh.

River Bhagirathi:
Matli to Dunda- 12 kms. both professional and tourist stretch Harsil to Uttarkashi. Dharasu to Chham- 12 kms. Both professional and tourist stretch. Jangla to Jhala- 20 kms. Both professional & tourist stretch Bhaldyana to Tehri- Both professional and tourist stretch.

Bhilangana river: Ghansali to Gadolia: 32 kms. Professional stretch.
River Mandakini: Chandrapuri to Rudraprayag 26 kms. Professional stretch.

IN KUMAON
River Maha Kali: Jauljibi to Tanakpur

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TREKKING-MOUNTAINEERING

The captivating landscape, with an incomparable diversity of flora and fauna: India is regarded as the ‘trekkers’ paradise’ and, indeed, is a refreshing treat to the trekkers. India is the ultimate destination for a trekking holiday, offering everything from short and easy excursions to the long challenges of the snowy peaks, invoking visions of the spectacular Himalayas, the lush meadows, green woodland and fragrant orchards. Some of the most breathtakingly beautiful trekking routes are in the Kumaon and Garhwal hills; the Chamba-Manali area in Himachal Pradesh; Kishtwar and Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir; the Darjeeling - Thalut route and the routes through Sikkim.




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SKIING

AULI
Location : Garhwal Himalayas.
Altitude : 2500-3000m Above Sea Level.
Specialty : Skiing Resort.
Nearby Attraction : Badrinath.

EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF SKIING
Auli is nestled in the lap of the snow-capped peaks of Garhwal Himalayas in the Chamoli District of western Uttar Pradesh, near the world famous religious shrine of Badrinath.

At an altitude of 2,500-3,050 metres above sea level, Auli's well-dressed slopes are flanked by coniferous and oak forests and offer a panoramic view of Mt. Nanda Devi, Mana Parbat, Dunagriri, Beethartoli, Nilkanth, Hathi Parbat And Ghori Parbat.

The rugged and snowy terrain of Auli is so challenging that it used to be a training ground for India's para-military forces in the 1970's.

Realising the potential of Auli as a ski-resort, the Government of U.P. had it surveyed by French and Australian experts, who favourably compared the slopes of Auli to the best in the world. Auli is today a promising ski-spot and an ideal winter resort.

THE PERFECT VENUE FOR WINTER GAMES
Apart from skiing festivals that are held here since 1986, national championships under the aegis of Winter Games Federation of India have been held at Auli, with technical and other backup assistance provided by various governments and adventure-related agencies.

Auli has now become a leading tourist spot and while its slopes beckon daring and gallant skiing enthusiasts, its pristine natural beauty and the alpine atmosphere lure many a tourist. Auli has something or the other to offer to all, whether it is to seek a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city life, or for conquering the challenging heights of the glorious peaks. People come here simply to savour the tranquil nature in its most pristine self or just to throw snowballs at each other.

SERVICES AND FACILITIES FOR SKIING FREAKS

A. A state-of-art ski lift, which has been imported from France. The ski lift is 500 metres long, which makes it the longest in the country.

B. Secondly, the slopes of Auli also have the luxury of an 800-m long chair lift, linking the lower slopes with upper slopes.

C. There are two snow-beaters imported from Germany.

D. Dressed and improved ski slopes, which make the slopes of Auli ideal for hosting skiing festivals and competitions.

E. A 3.9 km. long ropeway links Joshimath with the upper slopes of Auli. It covers a track distance of 4.15 kms. and is the longest ropeway in Asia in zig-back system. It has ten towers of self-supporting steel structures with saddles and shoes. Remote controlled hydraulic and pneumatic braking system make it the safest ropeway. Besides, most sophisticated electronic circuitry with telemetry, and storm-warning devices are used to minimize human error.

TRAINING COURSES IN SKIING
Auli is not only the battle- ground for experienced skiers, who come here armed with their skiing equipment, it is also a training ground for those aspiring to ski with dexterity, with the help of expert guidance.

Training courses are conducted in modules of 7 and 14 days. Training is imparted to the enrolled persons, in modern skiing techniques by qualified instructors from skiing & tourist resorts, Auli; and Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, Gulmarg. The 7-days courses are non-certificate courses with a total of 25 seats. These courses are conducted in January, February & March. The 14- days module is a certificate course, each one having 15 seats.

HOW TO GET THERE

Air: The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant, Dehradun.
Rail: The nearest railheads are Haridwar and Dehradun.
Road: Auli is only a 13 kms. drive from Joshimath. State transport and union buses ply regularly between Joshimath and Rishikesh (253 kms.), Haridwar (276 kms.), Dehradun (295 kms.) and Delhi (500 kms.)

Local Transport:
From Joshimath onwards, both bus and taxi services are available for Auli. Deluxe coaches can also be arranged with prior notice for a group of 15 people or more.

Cable Car:
The most popular way to drop in at Auli is by the famed cable car service, which runs for 3 kms.

Travel Kit:
Tourists are advised to bring woollen clothings, cap, socks, dark glasses, gloves, mufflers, pullovers, wind-proof jacket, gum/snow boots and a torch light. These accessories are a must for the tourist, keeping in mind the weather conditions of Auli, where the temperature drops to as low as - 8 C in winters, although it is moderately cold in the summers.

Skiing Equipment:
The tourists who are interested in skiing may bring the equipment of their choice with them. Ski equipment is also available on hire.

Medical Facilities:
Adequate medical facilities are available at Auli and Joshimath and medical assistance can be easily obtained from Army and civil hospitals.

Communication:
In Auli, communication is done by microwave telephones, wireless sets and walkie-talkies.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Altitude: 2915m to 3049m.
Area: 5 sq. kms.
Temperature:
Summer: Max : 29°C ; Min : 13°C.
Winter: Max : 9°C ; Min : 2°C.
Rainfall: 180cms annually.
Clothing: Summer: Light Woollen.
Winter: Heavy Woollen.
Nearby Excursions: Hemkund Saheb || Valley of Flowers || Badrinath

MUNDALI

Location : Dehradun (Uttar Pradesh).
Area : Skiing Resort.
Nearest Town : Dharagarh.

THE IRRESISTIBLE SNOW
Located in the Dehradun district of Uttar Pradesh, Mundali is 129 kms from Dehradun via Chakrata. The distance of 36 kms between Chakrata and Mundali can be covered by a unmetalled road that is accessible by jeeps.

The other routes via Chakrata, Kandabad, Kathiyan & Dharagarh. The motorable unmetalled road can be availed of from Tiuni to Dharagarh (49 kms.). Mundali is 2.5 kms. away from Dharagarh and is surrounded by lush green forest.

Mundali offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas. This place has vast ski slopes on which professions can enjoy skiing.

HOW TO REACH THERE
Air:
The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant at Dehradun.
Road:
The motorable unmetalled road can be availed of from Tiuni to Dharagarh (49 kms) to reach Mundali.
Where To Stay:
Forest rest houses.

DAYARA BUGYAL
Location : Uttarkashi -Gangotri Road (Uttar Pradesh).
Meaning : High Altitude Meadow.
Specialty : Skiing Resort.
Skiing Area : 28 sq. kms.

FUN FILLED SKIING RESORT
Bugyal in the local language means "high altitude meadow". The road to Dayara Bugyal branches off near Bhatwari, a place on Uttarkashi-Gangotri Road, which is about 28 kms. from Uttarkashi.

Vehicles can go up to the village of Barsu, from where one has to trek a distance of about 8 kms. to reach Dayara. The other route is via village Raithal, 10 kms. from Bhatwari, from where one has to trek about 6 kms. to Dayara Bugyal. Situated at an elevation of about 3048 m, this vast meadow is second to none in natural beauty.

During winter it provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq. kms. Dayara bugyal affords a panoramic view of the breathtakingly beautiful Himalayas. There is a small lake in the area that provides an excellent camping site.

From this spot one can trek down through dense forests to Dodi-Tal, which is about 32 kms. away.

Where To Stay
Accommodation at Bhatwari. Some villagers' huts may also be used, for accommodation purposes.

MUNSIYARI
Location : Pithoragarh (Uttar Pradesh).
Specialty : Skiing Resort.
Altitude : 2135m Above Sea Level.
Nearest Town : Jauljibi.

SKIING IN KUMAON HILLS :
The easternmost hill district of U.P. bordering Nepal in the east and Tibet in the north, Pithoragarh is often called 'Miniature Kashmir'. Nestled in the midst of spectacular Kumaon Himalayas at a height of 1645 m is a small valley barely 5 kms. in length and 2 kms. in width.

The town was an important landmark of the Chand kings of Kumaon. The ancient trade route to eastern Nepal passed through this area. Pithoragarh and its environs are known for their abundant natural beauty and fine temples that are important points of pilgrimages.

Located at an altitude of 2135 mtrs. Munsyari is situated at a distance of 66 kms. from Jauljibi and 127 kms. from Pithoragarh via Thal. Munsyari is the center as well as the gateway of the Johar region.

Munsyari is the base of treks to Milam, Namik and Ralam glaciers. Khalia Top and Betulidhar are two high altitude places that offer excellent conditions for skiing. You can stay there in a tourist rest house.

HELI SKIING RESORT, GULMARG
Asia's only heli-skiing resort is at Gulmarg, Kashmir. Come December, and the verdant green slopes of Gulmarg are blanketed with snow, forming some of the finest natural slopes for ski runs of all levels.

The gentle slopes, having runs of upto 200 meters, are the best for beginners while the steeper runs of 500 meters for intermediate level skiers, and yet other stretches of over 2,000 meters, precipitously steep, for top level skiers. T-bars and chair lifts, on five runs for beginners and intermediates, are operated throughout the day.

Gulmarg also offers heli-skiing, being the first destination in Asia to do so. A helicopter takes you upto the Apherwat peak from where you choose your own descent route. Also in Gulmarg during winter are toboggans, sledges and snow cycles. Requiring little, if any, skills, they are perfect way to enter the spirit of fun and excitement that snow generates

The winter sports season in Gulmarg lasts for as long as the snow does - normally December through March. The State Tourism has winterized huts including some privately owned hotels, mainly in the upper bracket, remain open during this season.