About Uttaranchal
The
newly formed state of Uttaranchal is home to a number of fantastic hill
stations in the country including Nainital, Dehradun, Mussoorie, Kasauni
etc. The state is known far and wide for its exquisite lakes, rolling hills,
dense forest, beautiful national parks and sanctuaries. The northern part of
the state form part of the Greater Himalayan ranges. There are snow-capped
peaks and glaciers to be seen. The lower foothills are densely forested. The
country's popular sacred rivers the Ganga and the Yamuna take birth in the
glaciers of Uttaranchal.
Today Uttaranchal is fast emerging as one of the most popular and much
talked about tourist destinations in the world. The tourism industry has
played a vital role in strengthening the economy of the state as well. The
state of Uttaranchal also has some of the holiest Hindu shrines. For almost
more than 200 years, the pilgrims have been visiting temples located at
Haridwar, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Jageshwar to attain peace of mind, body and
soul.
Garhwal Himalayas
Uttaranchal is a major destination for adventure enthusiasts from all
across the globe. There is a plethora of adventure activities to be enjoyed
here in the verdant surroundings of the state. Trekking is one of the most
popular adventure activities here. Trekking in Uttaranchal is mainly done in
the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayan region. Garhwal Himalayas lie to the
northwest of Uttaranchal. There is a wide range of trekking options awaiting
in the Garhwal Himalayas. There are even easy and moderate treks to be
enjoyed. These treks can be tried anytime of the year.
» Trekking Sites - There are a number of travel
agencies that conduct trekking to different parts of the region. There are
experienced mountain guides available to take care and to ensure the safety
of the trekkers. There are trekking sites namely Roop Kund, Hem Kund or the
Valley of Flowers, Kedar Tal, Khatling Glacier, Har Ki Dun Valley, Dodi Tal
etc.
Kumaon Himalayas
The
Kumaon Himalayas have some of the finest hill stations of the country. This
Himalayan region provides the trekkers with everything that they would
desire- verdant valleys, rich flora and fauna, crystal clear lakes, fresh
water rivers, snow capped peaks and much more. The experience of trekking in
this region is second to none. Adventure seekers keep coming here every year
in large numbers to keep them in good mood and taste.
» Trekking Sites - In the Kumaon Himalayas, there
are places like Pindari Glacier, Kafni Glacier, Sunderdunga Base Camp, Milam
Glacier, Adi Kailash, Nanda Devi Base Camp, Nag Kund, Devi Kund etc. There
are travel agencies that will chalk out a trekking route as per your stamina
and disposition.
Low, moderate and high altitude treks
There are treks ranging from low and moderate to high altitude treks. One
can chose as per one's stamina and disposition. Low altitude treks are
generally below 3000 metres and do not require a very sturdy and tough body.
Upto 4500 metres, the treks are termed as moderate level compared to the
low-altitude and the high-altitude treks. Upto 5500 metres is considered as
the high altitude trek. It needs an enduring and sturdy built to embark on a
high altitude trek.
Trekking essentials
Trekking essentials include sunglasses, sun cream, a self inflating
mattress, a sleeping bag, an electric torch or a frontal lamp, hiking shoes,
a fleece jacket, good pair of trousers, sweater, gloves and cap, plenty of
fluid and some vitamin C and aspirin tablets.
Ideal time for trekking
Late spring to summer is the main trekking season in the Himalayas. Among
the Garhwal and Kumaon hills the ideal time is between the months of May and
October.
