Archive for January, 2007

Manali to Leh

Tuesday, January 23rd, 2007

If you love the hills and if you can rough it out, then the Manali to Leh route is an absolute must. Manali is situated in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, and is just an overnight train journey from New Delhi. Or you can take a flight to Shimla the state capital, and drive from there to Manali. Shimla was incidentally the summer capital of India during the British rule. And Leh is the capital of Ladakh, which belongs to the greater Tibetan Plateau. Though extremely inaccessible, but still, for centuries people have come to Ladakh – the traders from Central Asia, the pilgrims from Tibet, conquerors from Europe and West Asia, and finally tourists from across the world.

If you want to view the stunning lakes, mountains and monasteries of Ladakh, or enjoy the cold and harsh lunar landscapes you can of course fly directly to Leh, which is the highest airport in India. But it is always advisable that you drive from Manali, if you really want to enjoy the true beauty of Ladakh. And also, if you are driving from Manali, you can travel through the Manali-Leh road, which passes through some of the highest passes. It is actually the second highest motorable road in the world where you cross breathtaking altitudes of 5,328 meters above the sea level. The road crosses through four passes, including the world’s second highest motorable pass Taglang La. Incidentally, the highest motorable pass and also the third highest motorable pass in the world is also in Ladakh. Actually the word Ladakh means – ‘Land of the High Passes’, and thanks to Indian Military, these passes have now been made motorable.

Manali to Leh is a 485 km drive and is covered in 2 days. But this road is open only between June and September, in other times it is non-motorable even for the military. As you leave Manali you will first reach Rohtang Pass which is a very popular tourist destination in India, and then you will move to the cold desert areas of Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal. The landscape starts to get barren once you cross the small settlement of Keylong. And then you come across hairpin curves, dirt tracks, glacial streams and the occasional landslides. Almost for the entire 2 day drive the rivers that will give you company are roaring Beas, Chandra, Bhaga and Indus.

Be prepared – the road is sure to tax you. Sometimes the Oxygen levels become so thin that you can start to get a headache. This is the first sign of Altitude Sickness. If you are coming from the plains, always stay a couple of days in Manali to acclimatization before you venture deeper.

Most tourists stop over at Darcha for lunch on the first day. After Darcha you will be crossing the Lungalacha Pass and then you move in to the incredible Rupshu valley. As you move from this desolate land, you approach Baralacha La, which is sure to blow your mind. From here you move on to Sarchu Serai, which is where most travelers in this route halt for the night.

The next morning is another early start. Today you will be crossing the second highest motorable road in the world at Taglang La. The first stop over is at Whisky Nullah where you get absolutely pure water in natural form. You will also meet the Indus, which has been witness to one of the oldest civilizations – the Indus Valley Civilization.

You will know that you are closing in on Leh once you have reached the Moray Plains. The gateway to Ladakh from Manali is at Upshi. Once you have reached Leh, make sure that you have complete rest for a day because the road is extremely demanding. Plus you can also acclimatize with the high altitude.

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The Amazing Karakoram Highway

Sunday, January 21st, 2007

Taking cue from the ancient Silk Road or Silk Route that traversed an amazing distance of more than 8000 kms or 5000 miles through high altitude passes, dry inhabitable deserts, picturesque snowbound lakes and mountain caves connecting China with Asia Minor and Southern Asia, the Karakoram Highway (KKH) is an amazing feat of human endurance and achievement. It today links China’s Xinjang region with northern Pakistan’s Abbotabad district.

It is the highest paved international road in the world across the Karakoram range of mountains. It goes through the Khunjerab Pass at an altitude of 4,693 meters or 15,397 feets, and is also the highest paved International Border Crossing. Yet another amazing feature of this fantastic highway is that, it cuts through the collision zone between Asian and the Indian Sub continent where China, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India come within 250 kms of each other. In terms of strategic and military importance, the Karakoram Highway (KKH) is indeed of high importance.

The Karakoram Highway (KKH) also known as the Friendship Highway in China. It was built by the governments of Pakistan and China, and was completed after 20 years of toil and strives in the year 1986. 810 Pakistani and more than 50 Chinese road-building workmen had reportedly lost their lives while constructing this amazing Highway, mostly due to landslides and high altitude sickness.

The Highway, connecting the Northern areas of Pakistan runs around 1300 kms from Kashgar in the Xinjiang region of China to Havelian, which is located in the Abbotabad district of Pakistan. An extension meets the legendary Grand Trunk Road at Hasan Abdal, west of the Pakistani capital Islamabad. However, not all parts of this super highway is quite motorcar worthy. According to Lee Freeman of Australia who cycled through the KKH as a tourist, “It cannot be called a highway at all since a large section of it, specially the one that runs through Afghanistan, is merely a cattle-track”. Vivid photographs taken by him of the road condition affirms his statement. Abdul Ghani of Pakistan who made a thrilling trip to China through the KKH soon after its completion remarks, “The Karakoram Highway follows the Indus river here for 340 kms, and it’s all like this, narrow and winding, with a steep drop to the river, isolated and awe inspiring.”

On June 30, 2006, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Pakistan Highway Administration and China’s state-owned Assets Supervision (SASAC) to rebuild and upgrade the KKH. “The width of the highway,” according to SASAC, “will be expanded from 10 meters to 30 meters, and its transport capacity will be increased three times. Also, the upgraded road will be constructed to particularly accommodate heavy-laden vehicles and extreme weather conditions.”

“The Karakoram Highway, following the ancient Silk Route that once connected famous landmarks that are now lost to time,” said a tourist recently traveling through the KKH, “today offers an opportunity to visit these sites and capture some of the magic of old times as historical figures like Alexander the Great, Marco Polo, Genghis Khan and Taimur Lang or Tamerlane had all once marched through this Avenue de la Fame.

The Karakoram Highway, in recent years, has become a destination for adventure tourism. The road has also given mountaineers and cyclists easier access to many high mountains, glaciers and snowbound lakes, providing routes to Gilgit and Skardu from the Pakistan end of this amazing highway.

The Karakoram Highway is truly amazing – it is important historically, communicates East and West Asia and the scenic beauty is simply fabulous.

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Paradise Island – Maldives

Saturday, January 20th, 2007

Floating on the blue waters of the south-eastern Indian Ocean is a garland of islands of astounding beauty… where time almost stands still and from where returning back to the world of mundane affairs is as excruciating as being torn away from the womb. This paradise on earth, called the Maldives, is a dream come true to those in search of exotic travel destinations.

Maldives is actually a cluster of hundreds of tiny coral islands that are divided into 26 atolls. Each atoll has hundreds of islands, most of which are uninhabited. However some of the islands have villages, and in others there are resorts. Tourism is restricted in Maldives and so, there are no more than 1resort per island. And some of these resorts you will come across in Maldives are truly world class. One such place is the Paradise Island – if there is Paradise on earth, it is here in Maldives. And Paradise Island is among the best places from where you can enjoy Maldives.

White sandy beaches, palm shaded coastlines, secluded luxury resorts, snorkeling, shark feeding, night-fishing – if your holiday ideas run along these lines, then welcome to Paradise Island. People from all over the world flock to the magical Paradise Island in Maldives, which is referred to simply as Paradise by the locals.

‘An escape to paradise’ is what strikes every visitor to Paradise Island. The island is located only 9.6 km from the airport and is at the Male’ Atoll. It has 40 water bungalows and over 200 breathtaking beach bungalows. A water bungalow is a place to stay that is actually on the sea itself. These bungalows have a glass floor from where you can see marine life all around you. Just imagine you lying down on your bed and watching the fish swim in the coral bed. Or a shark wanting to feast on the school of colorful fish.

You can just sit back and relax away your time soaking in the sun, or take a stroll around the island sampling tropical savories in the different restaurants. If you would like to stretch a leg, there are quite a few options, ranging from Beach Volley ball to scuba diving and other water sports. Paradise Island resort is plush with modern amenities. You can pamper yourself with a Japanese Shiatsu Massage or treat yourself to a sauna. If you feel a craving for your favorite Pizza, just order your fill on Pizza express.

The island is a great place from where you can visit the other islands in the locality. Just hire a boat (locally referred to as Dhoni). There is a seaplane that will take you over longer distances that are in the other atolls in Maldives.

You can visit Paradise Island and Maldives from Bombay or Cochin in India by air. It is just a short hop away. There is also a ship service between Cochin and Male, the capital of Maldives.

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The Shinto Festival of Japan

Friday, January 19th, 2007

Shintoism is one of Japan’s largest religions. It also holds the distinction of being the native religion of the land. Having originated in Japan and being almost exclusive to the country, Shintoism is believed to date back to the prehistoric times as a religion which preached paying respect to nature and in particular certain sacred sites. These sites were probably used to worship the Sun, rock formations, trees, and even sounds. Since the people of Japan used to associate a deity with each of these things, this led to a complex polytheistic religion. The deities in Shintoism are known as Kami-sama. Shinto itself means ‘The way of the Kami’. The forms of worship celebration in Shinto are all meant to express gratitude to the Kami for what has been, and to secure their continued good favor in the future.

After the sixth century, Shinto gradually became a religion of shrines, with set festivals and rituals, overseen by a separate priestly class. Many festivals are large community celebrations for particular parts of the year such as spring planting, fall harvest, or other special events in the history of a location or shrine. Other celebrations are performed for similar purposes on a smaller scale at home or in a neighborhood shrine.

Cleanliness is a major emphasis in the Shinto festival. Ritual washing, neatness and order, and personal sincerity are all ways in which cleanliness is emphasized. Since the earliest days, Shinto has been the source of a code of honor and action for the Japanese people. This code stresses a gratitude and respect for living things, deep appreciation for natural beauty, and a preference for the simple and unadorned. Thus the lines of a raked stone garden both symbolize and become the ripples of water surrounding the large upright stone(s) in the gardens’ center. Out of respect for the lines in the garden, one treats other human beings with the greatest of respect, not knowing where the ripple effect of one’s action may encounter another human being. The tranquility of this harmony between the human, natural, and divine elements is the source and goal of Shinto celebration.

Worship of Shinto is done at shrines. It is an indigenous religion and has no holy book, no founder, and no canon. There are three essential elements in any form of Shinto worship. The first step is the all-important act of purification, a ritual washing involving water. The second step is an offering to the Kami, which is usually food or money. The third step is offering a prayer to the Kami, of both thanksgiving and petition for the future. Music, dance, and ritual reenactment of planting, harvest, or history are often involved in the large community celebrations. The Shinto celebrations bring the Kami into the presence of the daily life of the community.

Shinto began to fall out of fashion after the arrival of Buddhism, but soon, Shinto and Buddhism began to be practiced as one religion. On sites of Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples were built, and people began to adhere to both. Today, most Japanese adhere to Shrine Shinto, and also to Buddhism.

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Volcanic Soil, Beautiful Lagoons, Spectacular Beaches & Ethnic Tribes of Central Vietnam

Thursday, January 18th, 2007

Vietnam is a land that strikes a tourist immediately with its stunning natural beauty. Talk of Vietnam and the images that sprig to mind are those of the Red River Delta to the north, the Mekong Delta to the south, and almost the entire coastal strip with its rich tapestry of brilliant green rice paddy fields, tended by the local women in their conspicuous conical hats.

But there are more pictures to Vietnam than these, and you will see them if you delve deeper into the country, both geographically and culturally. The central region of Vietnam offers a more rounded picture of the country’s roots and origins. The major sites of interest are loosely gathered around the three main towns in the region, Hoi An, Hue and Da Nang.

In the heart of the coastal provinces, between the North and South Vietnam, is the imperial city of Hue. It was the capital of southern Vietnam during the 18th century. Hue is still untouched by rampant westernization that is noticeable in the rest of the land, and still remains a non-westernized enclave of Vietnam’s traditions, and an important repository of its ancient past. Populated by majestic temples, ancient tombs and the imperial citadel, Hue is a place in which time seems to have stopped. In the inland highlands of Central Vietnam are found many of Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups.

Hoi is a small seaport town where Chinese, Japanese and French architecture blends in perfect harmony under the mossy-clad houses.

Between Da Nang and Hue, the road merges into the hills until it reaches the excellent panorama of Hai Van Pass. The impressive views in the north and the south have always been strategically important, and this explains the cluster of rugged pillboxes and older French forts, complete with bullet holes. Today it’s a place for tourists to stop off and stretch their legs.

50 km south of Hoi An are the best ancient ruins of Vietnam. The remote My Son Temples are a testament to the Cham civilization of 7th to 13th centuries.

Central Vietnam is slowly opening up and becoming more accessible to tourists. Vietnam is unique in offering an opportunity to see a country of traditional charm and rare beauty while rapidly opening up to the outside world. As the frontier between former North and South Vietnam, the Demilitarized Zone saw some of the worst ravages of the war with the devastation still very obvious. But on a broader basis, Central Vietnam is a picturesque area graced with emerald paddy fields and some surprisingly attractive beaches and beautiful lagoons.

Speaking of beaches, Central Vietnam also has one of the country’s most picturesque and uncrowded beaches at Nha Trang. If you love serene, calm beaches, you’ll just adore Nha Trang. In fact, the idyllic Central Vietnam coastline is frequented by photographers from all over for that great shot of the sea and the sand.

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Kashmir Himalayas

Wednesday, January 17th, 2007

Amarnath Yatra

Whatever may be your idea of a tour, trek or a holy journey to a divine place, the charisma of a Himalayan pilgrimage surpasses all. The valley of Kashmir attracts people from all over the world for its breathtaking splendor and a trek through the Kashmir Himalayas is no exception. Add to it the sensational joy of finding a stalagmite phallic ice formation that waxes and wanes with the phases of the moon. Intriguing yet captivating. You know what I am talking about – the journey to the Amarnath caves in the high Himalayas in India where your fellow trekkers will all along be singing devotional hymns in praise of the God of rage and fury, Shiva.

After all, its Shiva’s domain and all are going to take a darshan of the all powerful, in the form of a lingam formed of natural ice in a cave that is ensconced in a glacial backdrop. Also found alongside are the ice formations depicting Shiva’s consort Parvati and their son Ganesha.

How is the Yatra organized?

Amarnath yatra is organized every year by the government of Jammu & Kashmir in India during the month of Sravana (July – August), the actual date depending on certain circumstances. Anyone may participate in the yatra or trek if he or she feels like. But the person needs to be in sound health as there is a lot of walking involved in high altitudes. There are a number of tour operators who take care of all formalities like extension of visas, arranging permissions, hiring ponies, booking of halting places en route, looking after creature comforts, making rail or air reservations and other arrangements.

Base point for the Yatra

The base point of the Yatra is the picturesque hamlet of Pahelgam that is a few hours from Srinagar. During season (July-Aug), this sleepy little place is all agog with communities speaking Hindustani, English, French, German, Chinese and Japanese. In fact, people from all over the world congregate here to take part in the ceremonial Amarnath yatra every year. The starting point of the Amarnath yatra is another charming Himalayan tourist spot named Chandanwari (2895m or 9500 ft), which is just 16 km’s from Pahelgam. From thereon, the trek gets precipitous and is accessible only on foot. Some prefer pony rides for this 11 km journey to yet another stunning Himalayan lagoon known as Sheshnag (3547m or 11730 ft) where people usually relax and rest. 13 km’s from Sheshnag is Panjtarni (12729 ft), the last stopping point. The final destination is just 6 km ahead, surrounded by snow-clad Himalayan peaks and ethereal encompassments.

Climatic Conditions

Climate in the high Himalayas during July-Aug is erratic and unpredictable. Remember, this is also the rainy season. So adequate protection against sudden snow is always good. Unexpected changes in temperature affect pilgrims often in the Amarnath Yatra.

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Band-e Amir – Five Lakes High in the Hindu Kush Mountains

Sunday, January 14th, 2007

High in the Koh-e-Baba range (3000 meters) of the Hindu Kush Mountains, the five lakes of the Band-e Amir are Afghanistan’s greatest natural wonder. They used to attract tourists in hordes from all over the world before the problems started. And the problems have continued for so many years that the Band-e Amir lakes have now been forgotten by the outside world.

The amazing thing about them is the high retaining wall that surrounds each lake. The five Band-e Amir chain of lakes constitute of the Band-e Gholaman (slaves), Band-e Qamber (Caliph Ali’s slave), Band-e Haibat (grandiose), Band-e Panir (cheese), Band-e Pudina (wild mint) and Band-e Zulfiqar (sword of Ali). Of these, the Band-e Haibat is the largest and the deepest with an average depth of more than 80 meters. Although the high retaining walls appear to have been formed by calcium carbonate precipitates, the local legends tell a different story. Caliph Ali is believed to have miraculously raised the walls to dam a perilous river course and thus gain the confidence of the local pagan king whom he converted to Islam. Next to the legendary Bamian Buddha statues (alas no more there), the Band-e Amir lakes are one of the most amazing sights in Asia. The landscape is stunning and looks other-worldly.

Tourists used to throng the lakes to witness the astounding change of hue of each lake according to the light and timing of the day, due no doubt to the high mineral content of the water in the lakes. “Just at sunset – we reached some large terraces of snow, so flat that I realized that they were a chain of frozen lakes. The waterfall had frozen into bloated stalactites, streaked with intense copper oxide green and turquoise blue and sulfur yellow, creamy with snow where they had struck the water”, described a veteran tourist.

After destroying the Bamiyan Buddha despite worldwide protests against such vandalism, why the Taliban did not mine the lakes remains a mystery. The bad news is, the adjoining area still remains unsafe even for pedestrians. The road that takes the visitor to the fascinating Band-e Amir lakes lying approximately 75 km west of Bamiyan should only be attempted during the height of summer or autumn, because there is a lot of snow at other times. In favorable weather, the trip takes about five hours and the vehicle should be hired from Bamiyan.

Since the lakes could not be declared either a heritage site nor given the status of a national Park, many ecological and conservation problems hang high over the Band-e Amir lakes. Several warring factions planted numerous landmines along the route to the lakes in 2001. Though some of the explosives have been cleared, enough remain to pose serious threat to all life forms around the area. As peace is limping slowly back in Afghanistan, the volume of tourism is sure to grow and so the environmental protection wing of the local government would do well to raise awareness for preservation of the lakes and its surrounding areas. The outside world will hopefully one day soon again discover the incredibly wondrous beauty of the 5 lakes in the Hindu Kush mountains of Afghanistan.

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Tokyo, Japan

Saturday, January 13th, 2007

Welcome to one of the most exciting cities of the world – Tokyo. One of the world’s major global cities and a bona fide mega city, Tokyo is the seat of the Japanese government and the Imperial Palace, which is the home of the Japanese Imperial Family. It is also the capital of Japan.

Tokyo (Tokyo Metropolis) as an administrative region is one of 47 prefectures of Japan and is not administered as a single city. It consists of twenty-three central “special wards” and many suburban cities.

About 12 million people – 10% of the population of Japan live in Tokyo, while approximately 33 to 35 million people live in the entire Greater Tokyo conurbation, making it effectively part of the most populated urban area on the face of the planet. Many also feel that Tokyo is the costliest city in the world, and also has the most congested streets.

Tokyo holds many attractions for tourists. Getting to see every attraction would take weeks. Thanks to a very convenient train and subway transport system (with signs in English), it is easy to visit most of these attractions if you plan in advance.

Japan is a land of many shrines and temples scattered throughout the land. Of these, the Imperial Palace (Kokyo), the Meiji Shrine, and the Sensoji Temple are the three most popular ones in Tokyo. Kokyo is the home of the Emperor and Crown Prince and their families. The Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji, and hence the name.

Tokyo also holds many festivals, large and small, throughout the year. Of these, some of the most popular ones include the Shishi Matsuri (lion dance festival), held in Spring (March-May), the Tokyo Bay Fireworks in Summer, the Tokyo Jidai Matsuri during Fall and the Hatsumode New Year’s Prayers at Meiji Shrine, Sensoji, and other major shrines and temples in Winter.

Tokyo also offers an array of locations famed for their scenic beauty, such as the magnificent Tokyo Tower, the grand Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory, the unforgettable Rainbow Bridge walkway, the Sunshine City Observatory in Ikebukuro, and the Fuji TV Headquarters Observatory in Odaiba. Should you feel like taking a stroll in a park, choose from the many beautiful and immaculately maintained parks found in Tokyo. These include the Hibiya Park, the Jingu Gaien, the beautiful East Garden of the Imperial Palace, the Meiji Shrine Inner Garden, the Sumida Park and plenty more.

And who can escape without doing a little shopping while in Tokyo? Tokyo has various shopping districts famous for specific products. For example, Akihabara is well-known for its dazzling electronics stores, Shinjuku for cameras and books, Ginza for department stores and luxury goods, Shibuya and Harajuku for teenage fashion, and Jinbocho for used (and new) books.

Take time to explore the fascinating city of Tokyo. One trip may not be enough to experience everything that this great city has to offer. But whatever you gather will make for memories of a lifetime.

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Bangkok Massage Parlors

Friday, January 12th, 2007

When in Bangkok, there’s no dearth of activities to take part in. The “City of Angels”, as it is fondly called by the locals, offers something for everyone. However, when you mention Bangkok, there are a few things that spring to your mind first. And among these are the famous Bangkok massage parlors. Paying a visit to one of the many massage parlors for the perfect end to your day’s activities is a favorite with many tourists and locals alike.

For the first time visitor to one of these massage parlors, it’s often asked: “When do I get there?” What’s the best time to visit these massage parlors – is it after midnight, or perhaps early in the afternoon? In general, the best time is between 5 – 6 pm, as that’s the time when you get to see the maximum number of girls in the “fish tank” or “fish bowl”. 

However, there are exceptions. Different establishments may have different timings. So it’s perhaps a good idea to call up the authorities at the parlor of your choice, and ask for the best time. The best models (even those featuring on the covers of the local Penthouse magazines) are available during these “best times”. You surely don’t want to miss out on an opportunity to let them be at your service.

It’s worthwhile to remember that most of the massage parlors close at 1 am. So their last call would be at around 11 pm. However, like always, you can also find parlors that remain open 24 hours.

Many look upon Bangkok massage parlors as the ultimate entertainment experience in this exciting city. If you have not tried it, you ought to, at least once. Most massage parlors in Bangkok observe a similar operating procedure. Upon entering the parlor, you will be ushered into a reception area where you get to meet a bevy of attractive young girls in a glass gallery. This gallery has a nickname – the “fish bowl”, based on its resemblance with one. Help yourself to a drink if you like while you admire the ‘exhibits’.

And then, you make your choice.

Once you have decided on your girl (or two), just beckon the manager and tell him the number. The girl you have picked will be brought out to greet you, and have a drink with you, or just head up to the private room.

In the room, you can choose to order another drink and one for the girl, from the tea lady. Have a quick chat if you are similarly inclined, and get on with the business of pleasure. Depending on the option that you have chosen, you will first be treated to a sudsy bath, or, if you have chosen the body massage, you will receive the rubber mattress treat. At a massage parlor, two’s often better than one. Opt for two girls and ask for a “sandwich” massage. It’s an extremely pleasurable option that you will remember for long.

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Ancient City of Polonnaruwa – UNESCO Heritage Center

Thursday, January 11th, 2007

Like a large teardrop fallen from southern end of the Indian peninsula, Sri Lanka or Ceylon or Sinhal is a small island country that has witnessed many crucial battles with the powerful South Indian kingdoms over the centuries. After the fall of Anuradhapura, the erstwhile capital of Sri Lanka, Pollonnaruwa was first declared as the capital city of the country in 1070 CE by King Vijayabahu-I who defeated the Chola invaders and reunited the country once again.

Surrounded by a vast water-body called Parakrama Samudrya that provided protection and also served as a perennial source of water, the ancient city of Pollonarrua or Polonarrua thrived well under the able king Parakrama Bahu-I (1164-97). By then, Buddhism had reached Sri Lanka and Buddha’s images and edicts were widely displayed all over the country.

Being himself a devotee of Lord Buddha, King Parkrama Bahu adorned the capital with splendid architectural monuments and monoliths including those of the founder of Buddhism. Apart from the colossal statue of the recumbent Buddha, the gifted king also erected numerous temples, vihars, chaittyas and stupas throughout Polonnaruwa that invites people from all over the world for their magnificence and glory even today. What strikes the tourist most is the architectural splendor that has been so painstakingly preserved even after decades of exposure to the elements. In fact, the ruined city of Polonarrua is one of the few wonders left of the bygone days, when sovereigns not only ruled over their subjects but also cared for them.

To promote eco tourism in Polonnarua, the ancient city has been divided into two parts – new and old, and the ruins into five principal areas that include the famous ‘terrace of tooth relic’, Northern city group, the Rest House group (the royal palace enclosure) and others. Besides, the world Heritage Site has been so carefully laid out now that you can visit all the monuments and edifices on foot or may be, on a hired cycle if a car is not readily available.

Some of the relics are indeed superb like the Gal Vihara that consist of a group of four Buddha images situated in a place called the “Cave of the spirits of knowledge”. Here, each image is carved into stand-alone granite pieces of which, the 7 meter tall image of standing Buddha is the most impressive. No less imposing is the 14 meter long reclining Buddha that is beautifully carved out of a single granite piece, while the rest are of minor importance.

The ruins of the Pollonaruwa Council Chamber or Audience Hall are another great place of attraction in this ancient city. The structure was the King’s formal center for government where day-to-day affairs of the state were carried out, and the King also met his foreign dignitaries. Sitting pretty on a three-tiered granite platform due east of the King’s palace, the Council Chamber was once connected to the royal palace through a covered colonnade.

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982. Tourists have been visiting the ruins of a great city ever since.

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Biking Through Tibet

Wednesday, January 10th, 2007

Bikers the world across are a different class. They think different, they behave different, and of course they travel different. Bikers form communities and go on expeditions to places that are extreme, much like the way they think. Perhaps the Tibetan Plateau is much like the mind of a biker, harsh and cold, and yet warm and inviting. And so it was sure to be a matter of time before biking expeditions started to enter the Plateau and even reach Lhasa, the ‘Roof of the World’. Biking through Tibet has become a latest fad.

One beneficial aspect a non-biker would notice immediately is that when you are on your bike, you are closest to nature, non-bounded by the steel body of the vehicle. And this adds on a whole new meaning when you are crossing the stunning landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau.

Biking through Tibet was simply not possible particularly for people from other parts of the world. However the restrictions have been relaxed only recently, in anticipation of a number of foreign tourists taking the train to Lhasa. Though a biker still needs many permits and this can be a real hassle, but the expedition is at least possible today.

Most biking trips to Tibet start off either from Beijing or from Kathmandu. It is better to form your own interested group and then approach a travel agent who can arrange all the permits for you. Or may be you can also join a group that has already been formed.

You will first be taken to Shigatse which is the second largest city in Tibet. From Shigatse you will bike on to Lhatse and then halt for the night at Shegar. The morning view from Shegar is awesome as you are very close to Mt. Everest. Your next destination will be the Everest Base Camp, from where mountaineers climb the north face of the highest peak in the world. While you are biking through this region in Tibet you will also cross Ronghpu which has the highest monastery in the world. Spend a few hours in the monastery to know how the monks spend a solitary life in such extreme seclusion. You can also meet the head monk to receive his blessings for the rest of your biking trip.

On the way back you will cross the Friendship highway and reach Tingri and then onto Nyalam, which is where most bikers rest for the night.

However there are operators, who take bikers on a different trail and cross the Khamba-la Base Camp, the Khamba La pass at 4970 meters, Nakartse, Yumdrok, the Karo La pass at 5045 meters, and then onto Gobsi and the Simi La pass. There is yet another third route that goes through Sichuan, Zhongdian and Qinghai. While biking through Tibet you will come across watermarks on rocks indicating that once the Himalayas was under the sea, and you may even come across fossils if you are lucky.

Biking through Tibet is an endurance test both for the biker and his mean machine. So keep your bike in top condition before you even plan to come on this trip. Remember, this is the ‘Roof of the World’, and so it is going to be really cold. Though the day temperature will be warm, but the nights can get bitter. Storms can happen with snowfall anytime, so you have to be ready. April to October is the best season for biking through Tibet.

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Phuket & Krabi – Jewels of the South East

Tuesday, January 9th, 2007

Phuket and Krabi together make the brightest jewels in South East Asia. Situated in Thailand on the banks of the Andaman Sea, these two provide some of the finest beaches in the world. But that is not all. Phuket and Krabi have coral reefs with exciting under water sea life making them a diver’s dream, great mountains from where the adjoining blue lagoons look lovely, hundreds of small islands in various shapes and sizes, and forests including marshy swamps.

Phuket is actually an island, actually the biggest in Thailand, and is 900 km south of the capital city of Bangkok. But the easier way to reach Phuket is by air – just take a flight to the Phuket International Airport which has seen a lot of foreign tourists in recent years. And these tourists have not been restricted to Asian countries only, who have known about the beauty of the place for decades, but from far away Europe, America and Australia as well.

Krabi on the other hand, though just a hop away from Phuket, has not enjoyed so much international acclaim as a tourist destination. Though Krabi has a long history of continued settlement – archeologists have dated skeleton and pottery remains back to the Stone Age, but the fact that Krabi is probably as beautiful if not more as Phuket was known to Thais only, until a few years back. But now things are beginning to change. An increasing number of tourists are visiting Krabi as well, and the tourist figures are rising – notwithstanding the Tsunami, which hit hard these twin jewels in the South East.

Among all other attractions at Phuket and Krabi what mesmerizes the tourists the most are the coral reefs and the impossibly sheer limestone outcrops that rise out of the sea particularly in the Phang Nga Bay. But there are other places as well like the Phi Phi Island, Racha Islands and the Similan Islands. Never miss out on the Phi Phi Islands while you are at Krabi as the islands have some exciting caves that contain prehistoric paintings of men, women and animals. Also see how the locals erect bamboo poles in stiff cliffs to get birds nest for the popular bird’s-nest soup. An accidental drop would mean sure death. Another great cave in a stiff cliff and surrounded by water and mangrove forests is the Hua Gah Lohk cave. Legend has it that this was home to a bigheaded ghost. Apart from the paintings, you will also find thousands of shells here, one on top of another. How they got here is a mystery. Did the ghost love shells?

Diving is a popular sport here. Actually the Similan Islands is among the top 10 dive spots in the world, and so divers from all over the world come to Phuket and Krabi to visit the abyss and be one with the corals and the marine life. Diving trips lasting up to weeks are also organized for the distant islands. Many of these islands are uninhabited and pristine.

Another activity that is picking up is rock climbing. The exotic limestone cliffs jutting out of the sea look awesome but are not without danger as well. And this is what attracts adventurers from across the world to try their skills.

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A Train to Lhasa

Monday, January 8th, 2007

Tibet the ‘Roof of the World’ is all set to become accessible like never before. For centuries Tibet ranked at the top among the most inaccessible parts of the world – both geographically due to its extreme terrain, and politically since international movement was strictly restricted. But all that is set to change now with the opening up of the railroad that is going up to Lhasa, which is the capital of Tibet.

The new railroad is popularly referred to as the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, and it goes from the Western Chinese city of Lanzhou to Lhasa. In between it passes through some of the finest terrain you can ever come across making it among the most scenic railroad journeys. The Euro Rail routes, Rocky Mountain routes, railway lines in Canada, Scandinavia and Australia included. Though the Qinghai-Tibet Railway originates from the city of Lanzhou, but the fact is that, trains to Lhasa go from six other cities – they include Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xining and Guangzhou. The longest stretch is the Beijing-Lhasa route, and this 4064 km journey takes 47 hours 27 minutes to cover.

Since the train to Lhasa passes some of the highest passes and mountains, Altitude Sickness may be a worry, and so, the train has 2 Oxygen sources – Oxygen is released into the cabins when the train enters Tibet after Golmund, and there are personal Oxygen Canisters as well. You might need it because after Golmund the air becomes really thin, actually you get half Oxygen as compared to what you get at sea level. So take the precautions to enjoy a world of stunning landscapes you are about to enter.

Snow capped mountains are all around you as you pass through stark lunar landscapes. Not a green leaf anywhere. This is some landscape that is not available anywhere, at least in such a huge magnitude. After all, you are passing through the Tibetan Plateau – the Roof of the World. The only animals you will come across are sheep, donkeys, a wide variety of birds, and herds of wild yaks. And of course the endangered Tibetan Antelope. The cars are completely transparent, and so, you are always close to the scenery all around you.

En route, you will pass through Lake Namtso, the huge Qinghai Lake where as many as 20 rivers and streams flow into, Kunlun Mountain, Yangbajing thermal spring as well as the incredible and famous Potala Palace.

Here are some facts on the Train to Tibet:

  • It is the highest railway in the world. As many as 960 kilometers are located 4,000 meters above sea level. The highest point is at 5,072 meters, 200 meters higher than the Andes Railway in Peru.
  • 550 kilometers run on frozen earth, which us another record.
  • Tanggula station at 5,068 meters above sea level is the highest station in the world
  • Fenghuoshan Tunnel at 4,905 meters is the most elevated tunnel.
  • The Qinghai-Tibet Railway to Lhasa is also referred to as the ‘Sky Train’, the ‘Lhasa Express’, ‘Rocket to the rooftop of the world’, and simply the ‘World’s highest railway’.
  • To say the least, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway to Lhasa is an engineering marvel.

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Uttaranchal – Valley of Flowers

Sunday, January 7th, 2007

Stretching over an expanse of 87.5 sq km in the Himalayas between 3360 and 3900 meters, and carpeted with more than five hundred varieties of exquisitely beautiful flowers, and surrounded by snow-capped mountains in the Indian state of Uttaranchal, is the legendary Valley of Flowers or the Nandan Kanan (Playground of the gods).

Situated within the Chamoli Garhwal region of Uttaranchal, the Valley of Flowers offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks all around – the Gauri Parbat (6590m) and the Rataban (6126m) looming high over the eastern horizon; Kunt Khal (4430m) to the west; Saptsring (5038m) towering over the south, while the 6479m high Nilgiri Parbat stands guard at its northern boundary. Surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world, this is a place of tremendous unspoilt and virgin natural beauty. The Valley of the Flowers has been declared a National Park in 1982 and is now a protected site. The valley is also home to some of the most endangered species like the snow leopard, musk deer, bharal, mountain sheep and the Himalayan black bear.

Apart from flowers that include Himalayan orchids, poppies, rhododendrons, primulas, daisies, geranium and many others carpeting the ground with their profuse bloom, flowering plants like calendula, aconitum, gentians, etc. that are used in preparation of medicines are also found in the Valley of Flowers in abundance.

The location of the Valley of Flowers has been a closely guarded secret with the local pundits or religious gurus till 1931 when a British mountaineer, Frank S Smythe and his companions lost their way to the base camp while returning from an expedition to Mt. Kamet, and stumbled into the valley. Mists clearing, they were astounded to find themselves sitting pretty amidst a flowery bed. Fascination drove Smythe to revisit the place in 1937 and in the following year, he introduced the place to the world in his book, ‘The Valley of Flowers’. And thus the place was appropriately named. It was “a valley of peace and perfect beauty where human spirit may find repose”, he commented.

Most of the flowers in the valley appear as the snow melts after the long winter months. During the monsoon (July-Aug) there is a burst of blooming flowers all over the place when butterflies come alive with their ethereal colors, and the Himalayan avifauna starts breeding. It surely resembles at such times the real playground of the Gods. However, unwarranted human intrusion has created many problems in the recent past and to safeguard the unique natural heritage of the place, unauthorized trekking, camping and related activities have been banned within the Park area since May 1980.

Organized treks to the enchanting Valley of Flowers National Park begin at Govindghat, a tiny hamlet in Uttaranchal that can be reached from Rishikesh and Badrinath. In the trek you will come across breathtaking landscapes against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and glittering glaciers. Thereafter, the trail narrows to gradients and rock faces till it reaches the Park through forests. At times, it gets pretty tough and the weather in the high Himalayas is often unpredictable. Nevertheless, a trek to the Valley of Flowers is worth all the hazards to reach the “Playground of the Gods.” It sure is a lifetime experience. A testimonial of the tremendous beauty of the Himalayas.

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Bodh Gaya – the Ultimate Pilgrimage Destination for Buddhists

Saturday, January 6th, 2007

Bodh Gaya is the ultimate pilgrimage destination for Buddhists where people from all over the world come to visit. It is located 113 km’s south of Patna, which is the capital of Bihar in Eastern India.

Bodh Gaya is famous for its association with Goutama Buddha, the fonder of Buddhism who attained Nirvana or the ultimate release from the cycle of reincarnation, sitting under the Bodhi Tree in a secluded part of the place. The small town of Bodh Gaya near the main city of Gaya is one of the four holiest cities in Buddhism and attract thousands of Buddhists who come to visit and pay respect to the sacred place every year. Tropical in climate, Bodh Gaya gets fairly hot in summer (April to June) though the winter (October to February) is pleasant and comfortable. So most people prefer to come here in the winter months.

A pilgrimage trip to Bodh Gaya centers round the intricately carved Mahabodhi Temple that has a large gilded image of Lord Buddha that is believed to have been built around 3rd century BC by the mighty emperor Ashoka. Bodh Gaya has also been accredited the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992 – it is today recognized as an ancient seat of culture and religion.

Buddhists from a number of countries including China, Japan, Korea, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Nepal have created their respective temples and monasteries here in reverence to the Lord. Pilgrims also come to visit the Bodhi Tree for its association with the great event. It is here that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Although the tree has long been dead, the present one is a descendant of a sapling that was presented by ardent devotees from Sri Lanka decades ago. The Archeological Museum in Bodh Gaya is another center of interest for the pilgrims as it houses several ancient artifacts related to the original Mahabodhi Temple.

Temples and monasteries built around the Mahabodhi Temple by artisans and craftsmen from countries like Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Japan, China, etc. reflect the architectural style, exterior, interior decoration and idols of their respective countries. Buddha’s idol in the Chinese temple is more than 200 years old and has Chinese traits in it, while Japan’s Nippon Temple resembles the structure of a pagoda. The Thai temple is an exact replica of a place of worship in Thailand, complete with golden tiles and a curved roof. The temple built by the Nepalese look similar to the Buddhist temples you will come across in Nepal.

Apart from being a significant Buddhist pilgrim center, and an archeological site, Bodh Gaya is also renowned for the various meditation courses that are offered by numerous foundations and organizations. The courses are mostly conducted in the winter months.

The eventful past of Bodh Gaya is documented by many including the Chinese traveler, Huen Sang (Xuanzang) in the 7th century. According to him, the place was at the heart of Buddhist culture for centuries until it was destroyed in the 13th century by the Turkish army. As in the earlier days, people throng Bodh Gaya in respectful reverence during the full moon day in the month of Vaisak (April-May) that is observed elsewhere too as the august day of Buddha Purnima.

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Bird Watching in Sri Lanka

Thursday, January 4th, 2007

Sri Lanka is home to over 400 species of birds, and this alone makes it a veritable paradise for every bird watching enthusiast. This rich abundance of avian variety in Sri Lanka can be attributed to the tropical climate and wide geographical diversity – from mountains to lowlands, and dry plains to lush forests. Of all the varieties seen here, there are about 25 endemic species, native to Sri Lanka only and largely confined to the rainforests of the hill zone.

When you plan to go on a bird watching spree in Sri Lanka, remember that the best time of year for sightings is between November and April, especially in the months of February and March. It is around this time that the migrants, of which there are a staggering 198 species, arrive after their flight from colder zones from the North. The best time of the day for observation, as most avid bird watchers would agree, is early morning, right after daybreak. The only exception to the rule would be for the people-friendly ‘Townies’, like the black house crows, common mynah, sunbirds, parakeets, etc.

With close to 421 bird species comprising endemic, resident and migrants, Sri Lanka remains a fascinating destination for close encounters with the avian kind within a relatively short period. Starting from wet zone jungles to the dry zone wetlands, bird watching tours arranged by local sightseeing groups provide an excellent opportunity of observing Sri Lankan avian fauna under the guidance of professional birdwatchers. Due to the small size of the avian territory, the bird-lover can conveniently visit nearly all the best sites in the country in under two weeks’ time. With a little planning and preparation, a visitor can judiciously combine the sites for endemics with sites of general wildlife interest for a satisfying experience in bird watching.

Sri Lanka’s abundant bird-life makes the island a true Ornithologist’s paradise. With such a variety of environments, ranging from wet to dry zone, forest to jungle, and hill country to low lands, there’s no dearth of fascinating locations to spot these beautiful birds at. Most of the endemic kind, such as the Sri Lankan Grackle, is restricted to the wet zone, while birds such as the Whistling Thrush and the Yellow-Eared Bulbul are to be found in the hill country. Others, like the brilliantly plumaged jungle fowl, the striking red-faced Malkoha and the shy brown-capped Babbler can be found in forests and sanctuaries throughout the island. Among the best areas for sighting these birds are the Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve and the Adam’s Peak Wilderness Sanctuary.

The large lakes in the dry zone also attract numerous varieties of duck, while larger aquatic birds such as stork, heron, egret, spoonbill, pelican, and ibis can easily be seen in the wetlands, especially at Wirawila, Kalametiya and Bundala National Park (which is also famed for its large flocks of migrant flamingoes).

Come to the kingdom of birds in Sri Lanka. It’s a memory worth collecting. The feathered friends are waiting.

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The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar

Wednesday, January 3rd, 2007

The great Mughals (also Moghals) that ruled India for more than three hundred years were gifted with many qualities, though a few were fanatics too. Emperors like Shahjehan and Jehangir contributed to the cause of art and literature, while historians agree that the great king Akbar was an ideal ruler. Perhaps the most legendary edifice left by the Moghals is the Taj Mahal at Agra, but the gardens they built in Srinagar, Kashmir are great achievements too, and draw tourists in hordes as well. Describing the scenic beauty of Srinagar, Akbar went eloquent – “If there is heaven anywhere in earth, it is here, my friend, it is here”, he quipped to his intimate friend and mentor, Birbal.

If you ever get to Kashmir, you must pay a visit to the Shalimar Baugh garden in Srinagar to appreciate its charming beauty, against the backdrop of snowcapped mountains and the air of seclusion and repose perennially present here. Shalimar was built by Emperor Jehangir for his beloved wife, Nur Jahan, or ‘the Light of the world’, and was rightly called ‘the garden of love’. Measured 540m x 183m, Shalimar Baugh is built in terraces with traditional water channels running down through the middle. The upper terraces were held in reserve for the royalty and included a pavilion that was supported by jet-black marble pillars intricately engraved and curved. The pavilion also served as a banquet hall. The optical illusion of the rows of fountains and the shade trees gradually receding towards the horizon makes it an amazing landscape. Son et Lumeiere (sound & light show) performed every night nowadays within the garden premises brings back the memories of by gone days to the delight of visitors at the Shalimar Baugh.

Yet another striking beauty is the Nishat Baugh garden that is situated on the banks of the Dal Lake. Comprising twelve terraced flowerbeds that sequentially descend down till almost merging with the still waters of the Lake – it is a sight to behold. Measuring 548m x 338m, Nishat is probably the largest of all Moghul gardens in Srinagar. Designed by one of the brothers of Queen Nur Jehan, Asaf Khan, it was built in 1633, following the same pattern as Shalimar. However, how the 12 signs of the zodiac were embodied within those 12 terraces is a grand mystery. A walk through the garden lined with rows of Cypress and Chinar trees is an exhilarating experience.

Though smaller in dimensions (108m x 38m), the Chasma Shahi Moghul garden (the royal spring) is no less eye-catching. Situated well above the hillside, the central theme of the garden is a natural spring cascading down through the terraced flowerbeds and the pavilions, running gracefully all the way over gleaming granite. The water is used to run the fountains within the garden as also to dampen the flowerbeds. Laid out in 1632 by Ali Mardan Khan, Chasma Shahi includes three terraces, several waterfalls and fountains, and an intricately designed aqueduct. Meticulously maintained with water ducts and channels in perfect working order, the Chasma Shahi is a must for people eager to visit the Moghul gardens in Srinagar. Water coming out of the fresh water spring is also believed to be good for digestive disorders as well. However, unlike the other gardens, a nominal entry fee is levied for the Chasma Shahi.

Besides the three major gardens laid out in Srinagar by the great Moghuls, there are a few more Moghul gardens in the picture post-card city, but compared to the Shalimar Baugh, Nishat Baugh and the Chasma Shahi, they only play a second fiddle.

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Bamiyan – is it Gone Forever?

Tuesday, January 2nd, 2007

The answer probably is no. Though it is a stupendous work to reconstruct the colossal monuments, help nevertheless, is pouring in from various parts of the world.

Nearly one thousand seven hundred years ago, two large standing Buddha statues were carved out of the sedimentary rocks in the valley of Bamiyan in Afghanistan. These immense sculptures were as high as 53m and 38m, the larger one believed to be the tallest representation of a standing Buddha in the world. When in 1996, the Taliban rose to power in Afghanistan, it started indulging in systematic destruction of Afghan art and cultural images and icons, that were deemed to be in violation of the tenets of Islam, to them.

However, when the Talibans expressed their desire to destroy Afghanistan’s priceless and monumental sculptures, the Buddha statues carved into the Hindu Kush mountain range in Bamiyan, the whole world went against it. A senior political leader ruefully commented that the proposed action, if carried out, may tantamount to India’s decision to destroy the Taj Mahal on similar but opposite grounds. Directors of world-renowned museums begged for the statues to be kept for the sake of posterity. The United Nations sent special envoys to Afghanistan to prevent the vandalistic attitude of the Talibans towards such priceless examples of world heritage.

Incidentally, the Chinese traveler Hiuan Tsang first reported the statues in 632 describing the larger Buddha as ‘glittering with gold and precious ornaments. Both the statues combined classical Indian and Central Asian symmetry and poise. Their faces were modeled on that of the Greek god Apollo while the bodies were clothed in Greek robes’. The carvings survived myriad invasions and wars, ravages of time and were a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists world over. They were also one of the wonders of the ancient world. Despite protests from people, governments, political parties and national leaders, Taliban militia destroyed the Bamiyan Buddha’s before U.S toppled them in the Afghan battle.

Recovering from the after effects of the vandalism unleashed by the Talibans, amateurs and professionals from across the world has offered their services to reconstruct the statues in right earnest. Afghan sculptor, Amannulah Haiderzad returned to Afghanistan in April 2002 after a 23-year exile to lead a reconstruction project of the Bamiyan Buddha’s. The Japanese artist Hiro Yamagata in November 2005 declared a $60 million project to create the Bamiyan Buddha’s with Laser beams and computer-aided equipment.

Later, a group from ETH Zurich completed computer reconstruction of the Bamiyan Buddha’s that may serve as the basis for a physical reconstruction. Results of the image-based 3D reconstruction of the statues, performed on three different data-sets in parallel and using different photogrammetric techniques and algorithms is currently being viewed with interest by the United Nations World Heritage Site chapter.

Hopefully, sometime soon, the Hindu Kush would again be alive with people singing in praise of Lord Buddha and his eternal teachings.

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Atolls of Maldives

Tuesday, January 2nd, 2007

If you have not been to the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia, you can very well decide to come to Maldives – and rest assured, the beauty is no less.

Atolls form when an underwater volcano tops, surrounded fringing reefs sink into the ocean or the sea level rises around them. The fringing reefs grow gradually, forming circles with lagoons inside in the form of islands. The Maldives, where the word Atoll originated, is a group of such coral islands, sitting atop an ancient volcanic mountain range off the coast of India. Since most of the atolls are composed of coral reefs and sand bars, they attract a wide variety of marine life that includes colorful tropical fish and larger predators who come in search of them. The crystal clear water adds charm by way of displaying the amazing world of tiny marine creatures playing in the knee-deep water. The climate being tropical and the swaying palms providing the ideal shade, it requires but little imagination to see that such an island is a heaven on the earth.

There are altogether 26 atolls in Maldives that have been divided into twenty administrative districts and a capital city is at Malé. The atolls in Maldives vary in dimension and class too. Sometimes, there are hundreds of island in an atoll, and while most of them are not inhabited, some are fairly populated. Haa Alifu atoll is at the extreme north and Seenu atoll is at the extreme south, and the islands there are lived in. The largest atoll in the Maldives and perhaps in the world is Gaafu Alif while the smallest is the Gnayivani atoll. Maldives is a very small and peaceful country, and so thousands of people come to visit. But sometimes traveling between the various atolls can be a bother, because the distance from one atoll to another can be quite big. And so sea planes and bigger vessels cover the greater distances. A small boat is called Dhoni and a Dhoni is a great option for island hopping within an atoll.

The atolls of Maldives attract people from all over the world for their ethereal bliss, coral beaches and the temperate climate. An assortment of hotels, resorts and retreats complete with private swimming pools and seaside bars and restaurants welcome visitors from far and abroad. Cruising could be another interesting pastime while in the Maldives. And the atolls are particularly delightful for all diving enthusiasts. You can choose between a diving safari and a relaxing cruise through the atolls. Since most of the cruise vessels are equipped with professional diving equipment and are staffed with qualified diving instructors, diving could be a pleasurable experience even for the beginner. Alternatively, you can opt for snorkeling in the atolls.

A word or two about the luxuries afforded by some of the five or six star resorts hotels and spas in the Maldives. Tourism is restricted here and so, no more than one resort per island is allowed here. And some of the resorts are really world class – the Hilton, Taj and others… many of the atolls offer the ultimate in luxury. But the prices can be a bit steep for the budget traveler. There are cheaper city hotel options as well in the capital Malé from where a tour of the atolls can be organized.

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Vietnam – The Unexplored Cuc Phuong Forest

Monday, January 1st, 2007

An unexplored area in Earth – in 2006? Is this a fantasy? No Sir, this is a reality, here in Vietnam. Yes in Vietnam there is this amazing area known as the Cuc Phuong forest, and it is as yet unexplored. An unexplored forest is a great passion as it gives an explorer the trill of going someone where no one has gone before. But it is also useful for the scientist as it is an important area for biodiversity. Since no one has gone before, there has been almost no interaction with the local plant and animal life, and so, you can never be sure what you will find in such a forest.

Decades of violent struggle, civil war and internal conflicts have left most of the forested regions of Indochina in a perpetual gloom and even today, after peace has returned to the devastated landscape, certain regions of south-east Asia still remain unexplored and uncharted.

Take for example Vietnam. The country’s forested land is yet to be explored though it is fairly rich in both flora and fauna – specially the avifauna. Only in recent years have efforts been made to create nature reserves to protect the various species including the endangered ones. In Cuc Phuong National Park that was inaugurated by the legendary statesman, Ho Chi Minh in 1962, there exist a wide variety of plant, bird and mammal species that have been listed in the World Red Book. However, much of it still remain unexplored, and so a mystery. Cuc Phuong also boasts of varied wildlife and natural beauty though much of it is lost as a result of illegal felling and indiscriminate killing of wild animals.

Another curious aspect of Cuc Phuong is its numerous grottoes where samples of pre-historic tools and implements were discovered only in 1974. Another exploration a couple of year later unearthed ancient tombs in an artificially ornamented cave that is believed to be several hundred years old. The cave can be reached through a long staircase going down below where many stalactites were found in bizarre shape and sizes.

The 200 sq km forest in Cuc Phuong is home to an amazing variety of wildlife including some that were believed to have been long extinct. Visitors in the recent past have recorded sighting of the famous indo-Chinese Tiger, Clouded leopard and the exceptionally rare Delacour’s Langur. Besides, the Park contains a plethora of avifauna that includes bar-bellied, blue-rumped and eared Pitta, white winged Magpie, limestone Wren-Babbler, red-collared Woodpecker and Pied Falconets.

Treks to Cuc Phuong, which is around 160 km’s away from Hanoi can be arranged through privately owned tour operators. It takes about a couple of days to explore the mysteries of the forest’s ambiguity and weirdness. The trip usually combines a short trek through Cuc Phuong with a visit to Kenha village, a picturesque rural village in the Red River delta.

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Japan – Land of the Rising Sun

Monday, January 1st, 2007

There are a good many reasons for calling Japan the ‘Land of the rising Sun’. One that is quite logical concerns its location on our planet that is easternmost. Since the sun rises in the east, its rays perceptibly reach Japan first and so the saying is justified. Another version relates to the ancient Japanese who believed that there was no landmass existing in the world, east of their country and hence called their land ‘Nippon’ or land of the rising Sun. No matter whether the Sun is partial to the Japanese or not, people living in the land of the rising Sun are adept in rising to any occasion whenever the situation so demands.

Japan consists of four major islands – Hokkaido in the north, Kyushu in the south, Honshu and Shikoku. Of these, Honshu is the largest. Although the total land area in Japan is around 378,000 sq km, only 16% of it is habitable and/or arable, since the rest is mountainous and inhospitable. The obvious result is the immense density of population. Also, Japan is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, meaning the country is prone to earthquakes. Japan experiences around 1500 seismic occurrences every year. So, the housing and construction schemes in Japan are more restricted as compared to other countries.

Unlike other Asian countries, the climatic condition in Japan varies much. While Hokkaido in the north experiences freezing cold, Okinawa in the south has tropical climate. Japan is affected by Typhoons during September, but the hazards are mostly limited to the southern islands.

Being one of the leading industrial superpowers having teams of skilled workforce with strong work ethics, Japan has advanced on various industrial fields, surpassing many. Innovative thought process and technical advancement of the Japanese have helped them achieve topmost niches in several industrial fields where others had not been so successful. Japanese car- makers had almost beaten hollow most of the big American manufacturers with the introduction of front wheel drive cars in the USA that never skid or slip on a road surface that is covered in ice. Being a pioneer in the field of cellular phone manufacturing, Japan today is probably the largest supplier of mobile phones in the world. In electronics and allied trade, companies like Sony, Nokia and Mitshubishi have reached legendary dimensions. Roboting technology is currently sweeping Japan to such an extent that all hazardous jobs in the not too distant future are likely to be taken over by robots, replacing the human agency altogether.

People from the land of the rising Sun have also made ample contributions to the cause of art, literature, cinema and music. Great Japanese filmmakers like Kinji Fakasaku, Elji Okuda and Yasijiro Ozu have made award winning movies that have gained worldwide applause.

According to eco gurus, however, Japanese economy that represents almost 15% of the world economy may suffer a lot in the foreseeable future since the scenario is undergoing fast change with China and India hitting hard on the world market. With globalization working in full swing, electronic goods made in China are fast replacing Japanese products for their cheaper price and easier availability. Is this an indication that the Sun is on the point of setting in the land of the rising Sun in the near future? But never rule out Japan, remember, they rose like the Phoenix since the destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

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