The Garhwal Himalayan region may not be your first thought when considering an adventure holiday. It has traditionally been known as a spiritual place where people can find inner peace. However, it is also one of the greatest outdoor adventure playgrounds in the world. It has huge mountains, green valleys, dense forests and an abundance of river and water ways. The following are 15 things which simply have to be tried whilst there:
1. Rishikesh
Rishikesh may be known as the home of Yoga but this area is also home to a 36km stretch of river which is perfect for white water rafting regardless of whether you are an amateur or very experienced.
2. Beas Ghat
Beas Ghat is on the bank of the Ganges River and is becoming known for its excellent fishing and angling spot. It is home to a huge variety of fish including the man-eating Goonch fish.
3. Tehri
There is a huge dam located in Tehri and it is the start of many climbing and cycling routes. These climb from 770 meters above sea level to a whopping 3,200 meters; not for the faint hearted.
Rajaji National Park is an 820 square kilometer national park home to black bears, wild boar, sloth bears, deer, goral, elephants, tigers and panthers. Explore it with care!
5. Dhanolti
An ideal spot for those keen on trekking, mountain biking or horse riding. There are a variety of temples and waterfalls to be discovered at a height of 2,286 meters above sea level.
6. Nanda Devi National Park
Nanda Devi National Park is the place to visit if you want to see rare flowers and the blue mountain goat framed by huge snow-capped mountains. The braver explorer can search for the snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, mainland serow or Himalayan tahr.
7. Valley of Flowers National Park
If you travel to an impressive 3,600 meters above sea level you will find a sea of exotic flowers. It is said that the scent of so many flowers together is strong enough to make you faint. The Valley of Flowers must be reached via an arduous 3km trek – and this is just from the gateway to the valley!
8. Auli
Skiing in India! This part of the Himalayas is known around the world for its skiing facilities. It is also an excellent area for hiking around and viewing the multitude of lakes and snow capped mountains.
9. Chopta
This has traditionally been a location for birdwatchers witnessing the alpine and migratory birds. However, Chopta has also become popular with trekkers who wish to experience the fun of walking through dense jungles, small villages and green meadows with several impressive mountain peaks in view.
10. Chakrata
Camping here is an experience not to be missed. Chakrata is surrounded by thick deodar forests, ancient temples and Tiger falls. All this comes with an awe inspiring backdrop of mountains. It is becoming known as the place for adventure camping holidays.
11. Harsil
This village is on the banks of the river Bhagirathi and is the starting point of a trek through mountain passes and dense forest where you will witness several alpine birds and possibly a fox or ibex.
12. Dayara Bugyal
Dayara Bugyal is a well known skiing spot in the winter with a full range of slopes for all levels of skier. The summer may melt the snow but can be a wonderful time to visit a picturesque small natural lake surrounded by Oak trees.
13. Dodital
Enjoy a 21 kilometre trek from Sangamchatti to Dodital. Then take full advantage of some of the best fishing in the Himalayas or simply use this as you base camp for exploring the wilds of the mountains.
14. Bedni Bugyal
Bedni Bugyal is an idea starting point for those taking an adventure holiday for the first time. The trek here is gentle and climbs through villages and stunning alpine flower meadows.
15. Har Ki Doon
Har Ki Doon is also another trekking place for avid beginners. The trek to this site starts from Sankari and finishes with a 14km climb. Possible for family holidays and a chance to see snow capped mountains, alpine flowers and a variety of mountain streams.
By Peter Smith and ShaktiHimalaya.com!
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