Nelong Valley: The Hidden Jewel of Uttarakhand

The Hidden Jewel of Uttarakhand

   The hand-built wooden bridge that was once used for Indo-China trade in Nelong Valley

Nicknamed as ‘Ladakh of Uttarakhand’ due to its striking resemblance to the famed landscape of Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir, Nelong valley has been off limits for tourists for more than half-a-century since the 1962 Sino-Indian war, due to its proximity to the Chinese border. That changed in May 2015, when the shrouded valley opened its doors for the first time since 1962. 

A Gem within a Gem

Situated in the Uttarkashi district, the mesmerizing Nelong valley lies within the Gangotri National Park. Just 23km from Bhaironghati, this nature’s delight is just a stone’s throw away from the revered Gangotri shrine. As opposed to the lush green background of the Uttarakhand Himalayas, Nelong valley is a cold desert with scarce vegetation and wildlife, imitating the Tibetan plateau. Still, home to the rare and elusive Snow Leopard, the valley offers some of the spectacular Himalayan landscapes to leave you awestruck.
In addition to that, this veiled valley was a part of the arduous Sino-Indian trade route which lasted for centuries. A hand-built wooden bridge which is still present from those days evidently confirms it.

Lukewarm Response, Govt. Vows to Pull up Socks

Despite opening its doors to the public earlier this year, the Nelong valley failed to generate enough tourism for the state in past six months, with a footfall of only 200 tourists. For Uttarakhand, which relies substantially on tourism to generate revenue, this cold response was a setback. Inadequate publicity was one of the reasons for the low footfall. Retired bureaucrat S S Pangtey concurs. “It is a remote, virgin area that can turn into an adventure tourism hot-spot if the state provides ample publicity.” Another reason for the no-show can be credited to the bad roads. Forest minister Dinesh Aggarwal assures that the roads leading to the valley will be improved in addition to the proper promotion of this newfound treasure by next season. However, whether Forest ministry keeps its promise or not, only time will tell.

 A mesmerizing view of Nelong Valley in Uttarakhand.

Experts believe that the scenic and enchanting Nelong valley has the potential to spearhead tourism in Uttarakhand, just like Valley of Flowers in Chamoli district which attracts thousands of tourists and nature enthusiasts every year. It is a golden opportunity for the Uttarakhand government to improve the tourism sector in the state.

Nelong valley is open to the Indian public from May to November. However, entry to the foreigners is not allowed, yet.

 

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Mountain Biking in Uttarakhand

Mountain Biking in Uttarakhand Devbhoomi



Mountain biking is all about speed, control and thrill and is one of the latest ways of exploring and discovering new vistas of the Himalayan landscape. The rugged terrain and steep slopes, though risky at times, provide great mountain biking experience in Uttarakhand. The cycle trails in this region are best traversed between October and December. In India, this sport is still in its nascent stage, surviving on some financial support from the government. Blessed with rare and diverse flora and fauna, Uttarakhand is an ideal place to develop adventure sports and eco-tourism. After paragliding, mountain biking is the second most popular adventure sport in the state. The sport attracts many national and international tourists and adventure sports enthusiasts, which in turn boosts tourism activities in the state. It is a belief that in a few years, Uttarakhand is bound to become the future hub for mountain biking in Asia.
Mountain biking and cycling can be great ways to explore the towns and villages that fringe the foothills of the Himalayas. It also gives tourists the opportunity to understand the challenges that mountains have in store for them.

Routes Defined -

In Garhwal, mountain biking can be enjoyed on the Rudraprayag – Augustmuni – Ukhimath – Chopta – Gopeshwar route, the Srinagar – Pauri – Khirsu – Pawbo – Satpuli – Lansdown – Kotdar route, and the Haridwar – Dhaulkhand – Mohand – Dehradun route. More routes are yet to be identified, explored and developed. The mountain biking routes at Kumaon are not to be left out. Tourists can enjoy the Nainital – Bhawali – Ramgarh – Mukteshwar route, the Almora – Kosi – Kathpuria – Sheetlakhet route, the Nainital – Bhawali – Sattal – Bhimtal – Naukuchiyatal route, and the Nainital – Kilbury – Kunjkharak route.

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Devbhoomi Uttarakhand : Char Dham Yatra Latest News

The Char Dham Yatra

The Char Dham Yatra is a holy journey and it is believed that it relieves one from cycle of birth and death, wash away their sins and attain Nirvana.

The spiritual journey along with the spectacular view of the gadhwal Himalayas make this trip one of the most unforgettable pilgrim undertaken in the lifetime.

Opening Dates of Char Dham Temples - 2014

Yamunotri : The Yamunotri Temple opens on day of Akshaya Tritiya - 2 May 2014.

Gangotri Dham : The Gangotri Shrine opens on the day of Akshaya Tritiya - 2 May 2014.

Kedarnath Dham : The Kedarnath Temple opens on the day of Shiva Ratri 4 May 2014.

Badrinath Dham : The Badrinath Temple opens on the day of Basant Panchami 5 May 2014.

Registration is compulsory for CharDham Yatra 2014

Chief Minister Harish Rawat on Sunday said the Char Dham yatra would be regulated but not restricted.

Pilgrims would be registered through a biometric registration system. Emergency helicopter services would be provided if the yatra routes were blocked by landslips.

Biometric Registration facilities started in Sonprayag.

Biometric Registration facilities Rishikesh - ( Near Bus Stand ).

Biometric Registration facilities Haridwar - ( Near Railway Station ).

Biometric Registration facilities Janki Chatti - ( District Council Building ).

Kedarnath route change for CharDham Yatra

Minor changes have been made on the Kedarnath route, which is now approximately 16 kms instead of the earlier 14 kms, maintaining the earlier stopovers of Gaurikund, Bhimbali and Limchauli..

The pilgrims will be provided with wayside shelters, food, medicines and medical help and other emergency facilities. The state government will also provide the option of night shelter, which can accommodate around 500-1,000 persons.

Biometric Registration facilities started in Rishikesh and Sonprayag.

50 thousand pilgrims from all over the world have made their holy yatra to Char Dham till date this year. The number is 10 times less than the number of pilgrims who made the holy yatra last year same time ( around 10 to 12 lakhs ).

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Uttarakhand Devbhoomi - Fire in the Hills

On a recent trek I managed to get a few pictures of one of the small forest fires that plague the Himalayas just before the monsoon starts.

Some are started by local people clearing land for cultivation or clearing out the underbrush, particularly the pine needles which contribute to small fires spreading into huge fires. Some are caused by carelessness. But most are caused by lightning. The storms that come just before monsoon season are incredibly extreme. The thunder and lightning is dramatic. One reads in the newspapers about shepherds up in the hills or village people out collecting wood or their crops being struck by the lightning.

There is no fire-fighting facilities in the Himalayas. No brigades of firefighters or water bombers such as one finds in North America or Europe. The fires just burn themselves out.

There have been times when I’ve been on the road and driven very close to some of these fires. This is particularly the case near Rajaji National Park just southeast of Dehra Dun. The smoke was so thick it was like driving through heavy fog. And one could see the flames at a little distance through the trees.

When the fires approach the highways sometimes the local police or the army will come and close the road until it either burns out or passes the highway. And most villages remove trees and brush around them making something of a fire break in case there is a fire.

                                               Fire starting

                                         Another view of the fire

                                         Fire in the mountains

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Uttarakhand Devbhoomi Tourist Places- Place to be when it comes to beat the heat

Uttarakhand is a beautiful state in lap of potent Himalaya, serves to be perfect escape from baking summer for denizens of Delhi. Uttarakhand is attracted with various tourist attractions namely wonderful snow-laden peaks, gushing rivers, lush tropical forest and cascading waterfalls dotting it everywhere, wholesome weather and a cheerful ambiance year-round and a lovingly fusion of cultures & cuisines, I must say Uttarakhand is really a place to be when it comes to beat the heat.

In Uttarakhand there are several of places for tourists, some for nature lovers, while others for adventure-seekers. However, historical sightseeing, cultural extravaganzas and spiritual fervor in the state are also ineluctable.

1. Mussoorie: Truly the ‘queen of Hill’, Mussoorie is the most in vogue knoll station in Uttarakhand, about 35km from the capital city Dehradun. Pleasant Garhwal rises throws an enchanted spell here went hand in hand with lovingly climate, rich social legacies and wonderment courtesies encompassing.

2. Haridwar: Truly a bit of paradise, Haridwar is the spot where your soul looks for shelter. It’s a paramount site for journey, and is the venue of prevalent Kumbh Mela.

3. Rishikesh: The heavenly city for Hindus and the state’s undertaking capital, Rishikesh welcomes a great number of explorers every twelve-months. About 6km from Haridwar, this delightful town offers extraordinary chance for white water rafting in sparkling water of Ganga.

4. Nainital: A prominent summer withdraws since British provincial period, Nainital draws in countless yearly. Tranquil beautiful excellence in Nainital is only awe inspiring, with the town being encompassed by elevated Himalayan tops, immaculate lakes & waterfalls and rich green wildernesses.

5. Badrinath: One of holy singe dhams in India, Badrinath is a grand town in the chamboli region in Uttarakhand. This blessed town is accepted to be established by Adi Shankara in 9th century.

In Uttarakhand you can enjoy all types of tourist attractions, Here’s a look at some most famous tourist spot in Uttarakhand.

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UTTARAKHAND DEVBHOOMI - Narsingh Dev Temple, Joshimath, Uttarakhand

Narsingh Dev Temple, Joshimath, Uttarakhand.Narsingh is one of the avatars of lord Vishnu. When the Badrinath Temple is closed in winter, devotees throng to worship at the Narsingh Temple at Joshimath. The characteristic feature of the deity is that its left wrist is verythin and is getting thinner by the day.A legend goes about the deity's wrist is that of being a sign that the day the wrist separates from the forearm, the route to Badrinath would get closed permanently by a major land slide.

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Nainital Tourism – “Lovers Park” - Uttarakhand Devbhoomi

Nainital Tourism:

Nainital Tourism is one of the most beautiful and stunning holiday destination located in the Nainital districts in Uttaranchal on the foothills of outer himalayas. The city garden itself at a height of 2,084 metres above the sea level and the highest point are Naini (2,615 m) in the north, Ayarpatha (2,278 m) and Deopatha(2,438 m) on the west. The name Nainital is derived from the famous lake Naina which is a very prominent tourist place and the city is also known as the lake district of India. Nainital Tourism offers numbers of beautiful place to enjoy and pass on one’s vacation. Nainital Tourism is a very famous honeymoon destination and people flock to get their tickets booked during these seasons.

Places to Visit During Nainital Tourism 

Naini Lake: This is the most important destination for tourist visiting Nainital tourism. It is an eye shaped lake with greenery and hills surrounding it from all the sides and offers boating facilities which is the main attractions of this lake.

Bhimtal lake: It is the biggest lake and is situated at a distance of 22 Km from the heart of the city. The name of the lake is after one of the Pandav i.e. Bhim.

Mukteshwar Temple: The temple sits on the top of the Kumaon Hills and it’s a red stone temple with a beautiful garden surrounding the area.




Nainital Zoo: It is a very important place to visit, you will find some of the rarest species of Steppe eagle, Himalayan black beer and snow leopard.

Governer’s house: Build during the British time, it has all the facilities that are found in this modern world. It’s an architectural marvellous with lawns, swimming pool and a golf course.

Snow View Point: It is the coldest and one of the highest point in Nainital. Beautiful picturesque of mountains and terrains submerged in snow brings a magnificent view of the city.

Naina Peak: Just like the snow point, this point brings to you on of the most beautiful view of the entire city. Other important places for your Nainital Tourism include St. John’s Church, Nakuchia Lake, Sonapani Haimalayan View, Eco cave garden and many more…



Best Time to enjoy Nainital Tourism

Nainital Tourism is best in the month of late October and November.
How To Reach Nainital

By Air: Pantnagar in the nearest airport situated at a distance of 70 Km from the city.

By Road: National Highways connect Nainital and there are regular bus from Delhi, Dehradun and Haldwani.

By Train: Kathgodam is the nearest Railway station which is situated at a distance of 35Km from the city.

Nainital Tourism is best for Holidays, Honeymoon and off beat tracks. There are still many places which are not very popular but are thrilling and enjoying which can be visited during your Nainital Tourism.

Nainital Tourism is one of the most beautiful and stunning holiday destination located in the Nainital districts in Uttaranchal on the foothills of outer himalayas. The city garden itself at a height of 2,084 metres above the sea level and the highest point are Naini (2,615 m) in the north, Ayarpatha (2,278 m) and Deopatha(2,438 m) on the west. The name Nainital is derived from the famous lake Naina which is a very prominent tourist place and the city is also known as the lake district of India. Nainital Tourism offers numbers of beautiful place to enjoy and pass on one’s vacation. Nainital Tourism is a very famous honeymoon destination and people flock to get their tickets booked during these seasons.
Places to Visit During Nainital Tourism


Nainital Tourism is one of the most beautiful and stunning holiday destination located in the Nainital districts in Uttaranchal on the foothills of outer himalayas. The city garden itself at a height of 2,084 metres above the sea level and the highest point are Naini (2,615 m) in the north, Ayarpatha (2,278 m) and Deopatha(2,438 m) on the west. The name Nainital is derived from the famous lake Naina which is a very prominent tourist place and the city is also known as the lake district of India. Nainital Tourism offers numbers of beautiful place to enjoy and pass on one’s vacation. Nainital Tourism is a very famous honeymoon destination and people flock to get their tickets booked during these seasons.
Places to Visit During Nainital Tourism

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TEMPLES IN UTTARAKHAND - SURKANDA DEVI TEMPLE

Surkanda Devi temple is one of the famous and highly worshipped places of Uttarakhand state.The temple is situated in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand and is at a height of 10,000 feet. Surkanda devi temple is dedicated to Parvati devi who was the wife of Lord Shiva. The legends say that the Parvati became Sati (burnt alive) after an argument with her father.When Lord Shiva came to know about this, he lost his temper and did Tandav and flew with the ashes of his wife.During his journey with ashes the head part of the devi fell at this place which gave the name as – Shree Khanda which stands for head which gradually became Surkanda.



[ View of the new temple ]

The temple is located on a hill and one has to trek for around 1.5 kilometers from the base – Kaddukhal. For the people who cannot trek, there are horses and ponies available at low costs around 200 rupees.


There is a huge belief of blessings and people visit this place for taking blessings and “mannats”. Once a year there is a fair organized at the temple on the occasion of Ganga Dusshera and high number of followers visit the temple during this period.



[One gets a view of lofty peaks and greenery alongside the road]

The place is located about 30 kilometres from the hill station Mussoorie and around 60 kilometres from Dehradun- the capital city of Uttarakhand. The roads are in very good condition and temple is easily accessible. A large part of Tourists visiting Mussoorie and Dhanaulti visit Surkanda Mata Temple and during the summer seasons the rush increases comparatively to the other part of the year.



[Way to Surkanda Devi]

During winters there is moderate snowfall in the region which makes the trip highly enjoyable and fills it with fun.

Once the person reaches the top he is welcomed by the cool breeze which hits on the forehead and gives a very fresh and heavenly feeling. There is a eye soothing, heart occupying view of 360 degrees from the top of the hill which brings the camera in use.

The old temple has been renovated in past few years and will be brought to the existence during Ganga Dusshera 2013. There are small tea and snacks shops available on the top of the hill and having a maggie and tea with biscuits when the mild wind is blowing things is a very rich experience.

During the trip one can stop at Dhanaulti and enjoy a peaceful time in presence of loads of Pine trees.

There are budget hotels available in the area to stay for overnight .

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UTTARAKHAND DEVBHOOMI - KEDARNATH TEMPLE OPENS ON MAY FOUR

गोपेश्वर: शीतकाल में छह महीने बंद रहने के बाद गढ़वाल हिमालय की उंची पहाड़ियों पर स्थित भगवान शिव के धाम केदारनाथ मंदिर के कपाट श्रद्धालुओं के लिये इस वर्ष चार मई को खोल दिये जायेंगे ।

इसी के साथ उत्तराखंड के चार धाम के नाम से प्रसिद्व चारों मंदिरों के द्वार खुलने की तारीखें घोषित हो गयी हैं । इस वर्ष चारधाम यात्रा मई के प्रथम सप्ताह से शुरू हो जायेगी । बदरीनाथ केदारनाथ मंदिर समिति के सूत्रों ने यहां बताया कि मंदिर खोले जाने का मुहूर्त आज महाशिवरात्रि के पावन पर्व पर भगवान शिव के शीतकालीन प्रवास स्थल रूद्रप्रयाग जिले के उखीमठ में मंदिर समिति के पदाधिकारियों तथा धर्माधिकारियों की मौजूदगी में निकाला गया ।

सूत्रों के अनुसार, केदारनाथ मंदिर के कपाट चार मई को सुबह छह बजे श्रद्धालुओं के लिये खोले जायेंगे । इससे पहले, भगवान शिव की उत्सवयात्रा उखीमठ से 30 अप्रैल को रवाना होगी जो तीन मई की शाम केदारनाथ पहुंचेगी ।

चमोली जिले में स्थित बदरीनाथ मंदिर के कपाट पांच मई को खोले जायेंगे जबकि गंगोत्री और यमुनोत्री मंदिर के कपाट दो मई को अक्षय तृतीया के दिन खुलेंगे । गढ़वाल पहाड़ियों पर 10,000 फुट की उंचाई पर स्थित चारों धामों के कपाट हर साल अक्तूबर-नवंबर में शीतकाल के दौरान श्रद्धालुओं के लिये बंद कर दिये जाते हैं जो अगले साल अप्रैल-मई में दोबारा खोल दिये जाते हैं ।

गढ़वाल की आर्थिकी की रीढ़ मानी जाने वाली चारधाम यात्रा में छह माह के सीजन के दौरान देश विदेश से लाखों श्रद्घालु आते हैं । हालांकि गत वर्ष आयी भीषण प्राकृतिक आपदा में जनहानि होने के साथ ही बड़े स्तर पर चारधाम जाने वाले रास्ते भी प्रभावित हुए थे । इस बारे में हालांकि राज्य सरकार ने दावा किया है कि यात्रा शुरू होने से पहले ही सभी तरह की व्यवस्था कर दी जायेगी जिससे आने वाले श्रद्धालुओं को कोई परेशानी नहीं होगी

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Uttarakhand Devbhoomi- Uttarakhand CM launches develop schemes in minority community areas

Uttarakhand Chief Mnister Harish Rawat today launched 52 schemes of Rs 463.16 Lakh under the minority development fund in minority concentration areas in the state.

According to an official statement, the schemes being generated in the minority concentration areas under Vikaskhand, Vikasnagar and Sahaspur, includes development schemes for Waqf properties, graveyards, hand-pumps, Idgah, solar and street lights and anaganwadi centres.

Speaking on the occassion, Rawat said his government is working toward integrated development of all areas. He also directed concerned authorities to ensure timely implementation of these policies so that people can benefit from it.

The Chief Minister said, developmental schemes should be created timely, only then people are able to derive benefit from it. He also directed officials for quick disposal of problematic issues faced by people.

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UTTARAKHAND DEVBHOOMI TOURIST PLACES: COME TO EXPLORE ITS NATURAL BEAUTY

Uttarakhand is one of the most beautiful states of India, and also it’s very famous for its richness of tourist destination. People who have visited with attractive state of India will have their own description about its magnetizing natural attractiveness. The state of Uttarakhand is gifted with superb natural beauty, rich flowers and fauna, holy shrines, natural world sanctuaries, hill stations and it is also considered as a good tourist places for adventure tour. Tourists from across the world come quite in a huge number to travel around the without comparison beauty that is off bang than other tourist destination of India. Visit once to Uttarakhand and it is sure you will fall in love with its charismatic natural beauty.

Uttarakhand has numerous tourist attractions among which most them are photograph perfect hill stations. ,Dehradun , Nainital, Ranikhet, Mussoorie and Auli are the main hill stations of the state. These hill stations are gifted with delightful natural charisma and various beguiling places of tourist interest. The best among these hill stations are Nainital and Mussoorie which are visited by tourists all the year round quite in a good number. On the Mussoorie and Nainital tour tourists will have the golden chance to travel around the compelling natural beauty of the hill stations that are so soothing and its beauty is feast to the tourist’s eyes. Visit these hill stations and it is sure you will love share with you family, loved ones and with your neighbors.

Come to Uttarakhand and discover its natural attractiveness, wildlife sanctuaries, adventure spots and holy pilgrimage sites. You will definitely get tempts with its offbeat natural beauty and the serenity of the temples that are now the famous landmark of Uttarakhand.
Tourist Places in Uttarakhand



Deoria Tal



Gandhi Sarovar



Corbett National Park

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Uttarakhand-Panch Prayag in Uttarakhand

Devprayag

Deoprayag is regarded as the most complete showcase of legends, heritage & traditions. 70 km from Rishikesh , here the Bhagirathi from Gaumukh & the Alaknanda from Satopanth unite and for most Indians, this confluence is no less holy than the Sangam at Allahabad. These three rivers flowing majestically through sculptured channels carved through the rocks have carved angular blocks of land around the confluence & the town is set into these three angles. Located at a height of only 618 m, Deoprayag is an invocation to the gods who have gfenerously endowed this spot with tremendous natural beauty. It is believed that Lord Rama and his father King Dashratha did penance here. The temple of Raghunathji houses a tall image of Lord Rama made of black granite. The most celebrated event at Deoprayag is the congregation of devotees, who come here to worship at Raghunath temple. There is also a small temple popular as Bharat Mandir of Rishikesh in recluse. It is said that on fearing attack by Aurangzeb the pujaris from Rishikesh installed the same idol at Deoprayag as makeshift arrangement & later took it back to Rishikesh.
Srinagar the ancient capital of Tehri Garhwal is at a distance of 35 km from here.

Rudraprayag

Named after Lord Shiva (Rudra), Rudraprayag is situated at the holy confluence of Alaknanda & Mandakini rivers, at a distance of 34 km from Srinagar. It is believed that to master the mysteries of music, the sage Narad worshipped Lord Shiva, who appeared in his Rudra incarnation to bless the sage. It was here, also, that Shivas wife, Sati, was reborn after her self immolation because her father humiliated her husband. In her new life, as the daughter of Himalaya, she did penance here to ask the boon of Shiva as a husband once again. The ancient temple of Rudranathji is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Rudraprayag is the point where the two roads branch off to the holy Shrines of Kedarnath (84 km) & Badrinath (159 km).
The entire region is blessed with immense natural beauty, places of religions importance, lakes 8c glaciers.

Karna Prayag

Situated 11 km from Gauchar, the icy flow from the Pindari Glacier becomes the Pindari river, and when it meets the Alaknanda at 788 m, the confluence is known as Karnaprayag. The wooded thickets of the hills surrounding Karnaprayag were the meeting ground for Shakuntala C Raja Dushyanta, immortalised in Kalidasa’s immortal classic and a favourite ballad ever since. The place derives its name from Kama, the son of the Queen Kunti and her fiery lover, Lord Surya (sun), Kama’s lineage was kept a secret, but he propitiated the Sun God here, and acquired a pair of earrings & armour that made him invincible. Ultimately, he fell in the battle between the Pandavas & Kauravas, but remains a tragic hero for in life he never had the legitimacy he desired. Besides the temple dedicated to Kama, the temple dedicated to Goddess Umadevi, Narayan & Gopal stand at the confluence.
69 km from Gwaldam, Karnaprayag is on the main Rishikesh Badrinath highway. From here, the road to SriKedarnath (115 km) goes through Rudraprayag & the road to Sri Badrinath (128 km) through Joshimath.
Karnaprayag is the base for treks to Roopkund and the Bedni Bugyals and the approach to the Pindari Glacier.

Nandprayag

22 km from Kama Prayag, Nand Prayag at 914 m forms the confluence of the Alaknanda & Mandakini (flowing from a glacier near Nanda Devi Peak) rivers. On their way to Tapovan across Kunwari Pass or on their way to Roopkund, it is popular with trekkers. It is said that the confluence is named for the pious Raja Nanda. According to one legend, the king had been promised the boon of Vishnu as a son. Unfortunately, the same boon had been granted to Devki, the imprisoned sister of the tyrant king, Kansa. Ultimately, the gods found an ingenuous if wily solution: Vishnu would be born as Krishna to Devki but would be brought up by Raja Nandas wife, Yasodha.

Vishnuprayag

Hormed by the confluence of the impetuous Vishnu Ganga (known after this point, as the Alaknanda) and the Dhauliganga river, Vishnu Prayag, 1372m, has an ancient temple called Vishnu Kund. It is said that the sage Narad worshipped Vishnu at this sanctified spot. Visitors will find the Kagbhusandi Lake bewitching with its emerald green depths giving it a still surface, while on the banks, blossoms evoke the colours of nature in all her glory. The lake can also be approached from Vishnuprayag beside from Bhundhar village near Ghangaria.

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BJP asks Harish Rawat not to focus much on image-building

Dehradun: The Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday asked newly appointed Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Harish Rawat not to confine himself to an image-building exercise in disaster affected areas but take concrete steps to rebuild lives and rehabilitate affected people  



"Only visiting affected areas is no more than an image-building exercise. People are looking for concrete steps from the government to bail them out of the effects of the crisis that hit them last year," Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly Ajay Bhatt said commenting on the CM's ongoing visits to the flood-hit areas of the state.

Citing pitiable condition of villages, the BJP leader said that Semi village in Rudraprayag district is sliding, Urgam valley has no connectivity and Darnma valley is totally devastated despite over seven months after the mid-June tragedy.

Asking the Chief Minister to take concrete steps to mitigate the suffering of people in affected areas, he said that Rawat should immediately seek from the Centre Rs 8,000 crore promised towards rehabilitation of the people of the state.

"What I want to say is that piecemeal efforts won't do. What is needed is concrete visible work in terms of repair of damaged infrastructure and relocation and rehabilitation of the flood-hit villages," Bhatt said.

However, assuring the Chief Minister of full cooperation from the opposition in his efforts to provide succour to people, the Leader of Opposition said, "It is his (CM's) honeymoon period. We are not going to subject him to rigorous
scrutiny from day one. But the results of his efforts should begin to make themselves visible in a month's time," he said.

After being sworn as the Chief Minister on Saturday last, Rawat has been visiting flashflood-hit areas of Uttarakhand to take stock of the ground realities.

He visited Tharali and Piplkoti areas of one of the worst-hit Chamoli district on Monday and is currently touring the affected areas of Kumon region in Pithoragarh district.

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The Amazing Annual International Yoga Festival of Rishikesh

The world has recently woken up to the benefits of yoga. Yoga is a treat for both the body and the mind. It works on the principle of unifying our souls and bodies. Its benefits include increased physical fitness, concentration and peace.

For access to breathtaking yoga classes in multiple styles for over seventy hours, the International Yoga Festival, is a must visit. Held in Rishikesh annually, there are classes taught by globally renowned teachers. Tourists and travellers are guaranteed peace and self-introspection here. Routines start as early as 4.30 am and there are classes, lectures and presentations to keep you absorbed.

With special benefits such as a traditional Indian meal, the awe inspiring evening aarti on the banks of the Ganga and the cultural programs, this festival promises to be a unique experience. A grand lunch is provided between 12.30 and 3.30 pm for participants. Alongside, the river aarti experience is guaranteed to put you in touch with your divine self. Post the 7.30 pm dinner, the cultural program comprises campfires, dancing, songs, satsang and even more! The day is rounded off by 9 pm.

This festival will give you a chance to find out the eight limbs of yoga practice. There are reputed teachers dealing with multiple schools of yoga. These include Kundalini Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Power Vinyasa Yoga and Kriya Yoga among others. This festival also gives you an opportunity to learn and interact with divine spiritual healers and saints.

This annual event is the brainchild of the Parmarth Niketan Ashram which is a just an hour away from Dehradun by car. You will also get comfortable accommodation at the ashram itself. This comes coupled with modern amenities which are sure to make this a special experience for tourists. So, be prepared to soak in a unique travelling odyssey at the International Yoga Festival.

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Bedni Bugyal

Bedni Bugyal (High altitude grass, meadow) is one of the finest meadow in India. This has got to be one of the most romantic spots in the Himalayas - acres and acres of meadow scooped out of lush mountain scape, a steep ridge

arching up into the dusk, and above it, the enormous western flank of Trishul. One of the larger Bugyal (meadow) in Uttarakhand, Bedni is also a major way-station on the Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra, a ritual procession held every 12 years.


Bedni Bugyal is a charming green meadow adorned with flowers in a spell binding varieties, in full bloom. There is a small lake situated in the midst of the meadow, where Tarpans are offered by the devotees. Situated nearby is a small temple where the devotees pay there obeisance, during their halt at Bedni Bugyal.

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DEVBHOOMI UTTARAKHAND

Uttarakhand became the 27th state of the Republic of India on 9th November 2000. The State is carved out of Uttar Pradesh. It occupies 17.3% of India's total land area with 51,125 sq km.
On Uttarakhand Travel, you will find the great diversity of the region where snow-clad mountains, green hills, fertile valleys, flowing rivers and thriving lakes add to the natural beauty. The popular hill stations of Uttarakhand are Nainital, Bhimtal, Almora, Ranikhet, Pithoragarh, Munsiyari, Mussorie, Chopta, Valley of Flowers, Joshimath and Lansdowne. For unlimited serenity and tranquility in pleasant pollution free environs, hill station on Uttarakhand Travel are ideal for vacations. To enhance the attractiveness of the region are the several natural lakes in the region, which are the center of attraction of the town and good for sporting activities.
Since Uttarakhand is known as the Abode of the gods, there are several highly venerated pilgrimage places. The tourists must visit Kedarnath, Badrinath, Henmkund Sahib, Ganotri, Yamunotri, Jageshwar, Bageshwar, Rishikesh and Haridwar for their religious importance on Uttarakhand Travel. Each hilltop or bent is known to have a temple, big or small, which are considered very sacred by the locals.

Chandika Mata Temple (Simli Uttarakhand)

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About Yamunotri Dham - (Yamunotri Temple) Uttarakhand Devbhoomi

A View of the Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri Temple is situated near a hot spring running water in geyser force and in which the pilgrims cook their food. The Temple of Yamunotri is at the foothill of the Kalind Parvat at the left bank of the Yamuna at a height of 3,185 metres. Acting as a backdrop, a glorious waterfall drops, more than 2,000 metres from the snow of Banderpoonch into the valley at this point. Besides `Ratnjot` an herb claimed to be curative for eye diseases, with chestnuts, walnuts, and apricots grow in abundance in this valley. A frozen lake of ice on the top of Kalind Parvat, at a height of 4,421 metres and almost a kilometre further up is the source of the Yamuna but since the approach to it, is extremely unsafe, the temple has been built at the foothill. Here, the sage Asset had his habitat, all his life he bathed in both, Ganga and Yamuna.

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