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All You Need to Know about Kedarnath Yatra

7 November 20234 November 2023travelingpersecond

A Collaboration Post with BanBanjara

Introduction

Kedarnath, situated in the state of Uttarakhand, India, is a widely acclaimed pilgrimage center of great significance. Tucked away in the serene embrace of the Garhwal Himalayas, it rests at an impressive altitude of approximately 3,583 meters. Kedarnath holds a revered place in the hearts of Hindus, being regarded as one of their holiest destinations.

In the following article, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of the Kedarnath Yatra, endeavoring to unravel its profound importance, guide you on the optimal seasons for a visit, delineate the trekking trail, and shed light on the myriad attractions that grace the region’s landscape.

Significance of Kedarnath:

Kedarnath holds immense religious significance for Hindus as it is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (lingams of light) of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva appeared here in the form of a fiery column of light to bless the Pandavas, the central characters of the ancient epic Mahabharata. The main deity in the Kedarnath temple is a Shiva Lingam, which is considered to be self-manifested and is worshipped with great reverence.

Best Time to Visit:

The Kedarnath Yatra traditionally kicks off in late April or early May, concluding in November. The prime period for visiting Kedarnath falls within the summer months, spanning from May to June, characterized by agreeable weather conditions and accessibility to the temple. Conversely, the monsoon season, spanning July to September, ushers in copious rainfall and frequent landslides, rendering the pilgrimage quite challenging. Finally, the winter season, from November to April, is marked by heavy snowfall, leading to the temple’s closure and the temporary suspension of the yatra.

Trekking Route:

The Kedarnath Yatra involves a mountainous trek of approximately 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. Gaurikund serves as the starting point for the pilgrimage, and it is easily accessible by road from major cities in Uttarakhand. The trek passes through picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and several small villages, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.

En route to Kedarnath, pilgrims come across various significant landmarks, including the Triyuginarayan temple, which is believed to be the location of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s celestial wedding. It is a popular site for devotees to take a break and seek blessings before continuing their journey.

Accommodation Options:

Throughout the trek, there are several stops where pilgrims can find accommodation options ranging from dharamshalas (guesthouses) to tented camps. These accommodations provide basic facilities such as food, shelter, and medical assistance. It is advisable to make prior bookings due to the heavy influx of pilgrims during the peak season. Once pilgrims reach Kedarnath, there are lodges and guesthouses available for an overnight stay.

Kedarnath Temple and Rituals:

The Kedarnath temple, a masterpiece of ancient architecture, is the main attraction of the yatra. It is built from large stone slabs and stands amidst the mighty mountains, providing a serene and divine atmosphere. The temple is open for darshan (worship) from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM and then from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, during which devotees can offer their prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

Several rituals are performed at the Kedarnath temple, including the Rudra Abhishekam, where the Shiva Lingam is bathed with various sacred substances such as milk, Ghee (clarified butter), honey, and water. Aartis (devotional worship) and bhajans (hymns) are also conducted, creating a spiritual ambiance that resonates with the devotees.

Other Attractions:

Apart from the Kedarnath temple, there are several other attractions in and around the area that are worth exploring. One such attraction is the Vasuki Tal lake, situated at an elevation of 4,150 meters. This picturesque lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding glacier-covered peaks and provides a peaceful environment for meditation and relaxation.

Another notable landmark near Kedarnath is the Chorabari Tal, also known as Gandhi Sarovar, which is a glacial lake formed from the melting of the Chorabari glacier. This lake holds religious significance and is a popular pit stop for pilgrims undertaking the yatra.

The Kedarnath Yatra is a spiritual journey that offers a unique opportunity to connect with divinity amidst the majestic Himalayas. The trek through the scenic landscapes, the serene ambiance of the Kedarnath temple, and the rituals performed during the pilgrimage create an unforgettable and transformative experience. It is a pilgrimage that holds immense religious and cultural importance for Hindus, and it continues to attract devotees from all over the world who seek solace, devotion, and a deeper connection with the divine.

Things You Need to Know about Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

5 November 20234 November 2023travelingpersecond

A Collaboration Post with BanBanjara

Introduction:

Conversating on a Leh Ladakh bike trip is a dream for many adventure enthusiasts and travel affectionists. Situated in the Himalayan region of India, Ladakh offbreath landscapes, challenging heights, and an experience that’s nothing short of excitement. However, a successful bike trip requires meticulous planning, especially when it comes to budgeting and costs. In this guide, we’ll delve into the various aspects of planning a Leh Ladakh bike trip, including costs, tips, and a sample itinerary.

Budgeting and Costs:

Before revving up your bike and hitting the road, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the costs involved. While the actual expenses can vary based on factors like the duration of your trip, type of accommodation, and personal preferences, here’s a breakdown of the major expenses to consider:

Travel and Accommodation: The travel costs primarily include fuel for your bike. The distance from your starting point to Leh can impact this significantly. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Camping is also a popular and budget-friendly option.

Permits and Fees: Ladakh is a protected region, and tourists are required to obtain Inner Line Permits to visit certain areas. These permits come with a nominal fee.

Food and Drinks: Food expenses can vary depending on whether you choose to dine at local eateries or prefer restaurants. Local cuisine is generally more affordable.

Rentals and Repairs: If you’re renting a bike, factor in the rental charges and also keep a buffer for any potential repairs your bike might need during the journey.

Miscellaneous: This includes expenses for activities like sightseeing, shopping, and any unexpected costs that may arise during the trip.

Tips for Cost-Effective Travel:

While a Leh Ladakh bike trip can be a memorable experience, it’s important to keep your expenses in check. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your adventure while being budget-conscious:

Travel with a Group: Traveling in a group can help in cost-sharing for accommodation, fuel, and other expenses. Plus, it’s safer and more enjoyable to share the experience with others.

Pack Light: Carrying excess baggage can impact your bike’s fuel efficiency. Pack only the essentials to save on fuel costs.

Choose Accommodation Wisely: Consider budget options like guesthouses, hostels, and camping sites. This not only saves money but also offers a more immersive experience.

Eat Local: Indulge in the local cuisine as it’s often more affordable than eating at fancy restaurants. Plus, it’s a great way to experience the culture.

DIY vs. Guided Tours: While guided tours provide convenience, planning your own trip gives you more control over your expenses. Research and plan the route beforehand.

Maintenance Check: Ensure your bike is in top condition before starting the trip. Regular maintenance can prevent costly breakdowns during the journey.

Sample Itinerary:

Here’s a sample 10-day itinerary for a Leh Ladakh bike trip, focusing on key destinations and approximate costs:

Day 1-2: Start your journey from Manali, covering around 330 km. Stay in budget guesthouses (approximately $15-25 per night).

Day 3-4: Ride to Jispa (138 km) and then to Sarchu (80 km). Camp in Sarchu or opt for budget accommodations.

Day 5: Head to Leh (250 km). This leg might have slightly higher fuel costs due to longer distance.

Day 6-7: Explore Leh and nearby attractions. Visit monasteries and enjoy local cuisine.

Day 8: Ride to Nubra Valley (150 km). Experience the famous sand dunes and stay in a guesthouse.

Day 9: Proceed to Pangong Lake (160 km). Camp by the stunning lake under the stars.

Day 10: Return to Leh. Relax and prepare for your journey back home.

Conclusion:

A Leh Ladakh bike trip is an adventure of a lifetime, offering unmatched natural beauty and an adrenaline rush like no other. While costs are a significant aspect of planning, careful budgeting and smart choices can make the journey affordable without compromising on experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group, the memories and stories you’ll gather from this journey will undoubtedly be worth every penny spent. So, plan wisely, ride safely, and get ready to create unforgettable memories amidst the majestic Himalayas.

Failed and Succeeded: The Story of India’s eVisa Hunt

11 May 2023travelingpersecond

<—-Previous Story

I have experienced that applying for an eVisa was easier and the chances of being accepted were greater than applying for a Regular Visa. It was enough to attach the required documents and pay at the online payment gate, the e-Visa would be issued according to the planned time of arrival in the country.

At least I had made eVisa Taiwan, Sri Lanka, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Oman. Everything went smoothly and the eVisa was easy for me to get.

Well, this time I will share a little story about how I made India’s e-Visa three times.

India’s eVisa is the second eVisa that I’ve ever pursued after the first eVisa that I’ve taken care of, i.e. eVisa Taiwan.

At that time….End of 2017….

The mental challenge that was so heavy after getting a Jet Airways flight ticket towards the capital of India, made my quest for an Indian e-Visa less enthusiastic. Getting an Indian eVisa was indeed very easy. I only needed to complete the data on the e-form and attached documents in the form of a photo of myself and a scan of the passport biodata sheet requested by the official India eVisa website. Then I only needed to wait some time for the eVisa to be issued. But the lack of enthusiasm in dealing with the e-Visa lied in the feeling of anxiety about visiting that Gandhi’s Country.

The eVisa validity period to entering India was short, which was around four months, making me had to apply for this eVisa close to the departure date.

I myself applied for this eVisa twenty days before departure and the eVisa was approved the day after submission after paying 50 US dollars at the payment gate. The application address was as follows: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/

This was my first story of hunting for an Indian eVisa.

The next day the eVisa application had GRANTED status.

Check it out!…. Any entry point in India that could use this eVisa.

Tracking eVisa status on the application page.

Second Experience

Whereas my next experience in applying for an Indian eVisa occurred on November 8, 2018.

At that time, India’s eVisa was made free by the Indian government on June 18, 2018. The idea itself was conveyed by Nerendra Modi during a meeting of the Indian Diaspora in Jakarta.

Where was my destination at that time?….

Mumbai….Yups, I planned to get out of Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport heading to the city center during a transit of more than 13 hours. At that time Jet Airways would take me from Dhaka to Colombo and transit in Mumbai.

Maybe due to a change in policy from a paid eVisa to a free eVisa, there had been a change of address on the India eVisa page. I submitted the eVisa application myself, exactly two months before departure.

Because the Web URL that I entered was wrong, the decision to accept or not my eVisa application never reached my email. The URL I went to at that time was https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/

Do I then plan to reapply?

No….Because at the same time, there was a change in Jet Airways flight from Dhaka to Mumbai. The change in flight schedule didn’t allow me to get out of the airport, let alone head to the city center. Because the change in flight schedule apart from shortening the transit time also made 80% of my transit time fall at night. Hence, it would be impossible for me to explore Mumbai at night….Too risky.

In the end, I decided, I wouldn’t continue the continuation of this eVisa application because basically, I didn’t need it anymore. But my curiosity was prolonged, finally, I tried to find the correct Indian e-Visa application page address. And I found it, here is the URL in question: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/eVisa/

Even though this page was wrong, the appearance of the e-form turned out to be exactly the same as the e-form on the correct page.

The page for checking the status of eVisa applications was also the same.

Third Experience

The third submission for the India eVisa was when I intended to explore the Middle East Region and decided to take entry to Dubai from Kochi.

The decision to jumping off to the Middle East from Kochi was of course closely related to the budget conditions I had. This condition was strengthened by the availability of low-cost Srilankan Airlines flights from Kochi to Dubai with temporary transit in Colombo. Of course, I chose to jump from Kochi also based on a strong desire to return to nostalgia with the rich culture of India.

The next opportunity occurred at the end of 2019. I applied for India eVisa to explore Kochi.

I processed this application by visiting the eVisa India page twice.

On December 4, I filled out the e-form partially due to busy work. Partially filling out the e-form during the day, I had to complete it in the afternoon until finally at four o’clock in the afternoon I was able to submit the e-Visa application.

This was the advantage of applying for an India eVisa where we could fill out the e-form several times (not fill in once). Usually, at the opportunity to fill out the first e-form, we would be given an Application ID No. which was entry access to our submission data if we wanted to edit or complete data.

On the third occasion of making this India eVisa, I submitted my eVisa application on December 4, 2019, and eVisa got GRANTED status on December 8, 2019.

Email sending that filling in the partial filling of my eVisa application was stored.

Notice that my e-Visa submission e-form was successful and waiting to be processed.

So, it was easy to make an Indian eVisa….

Come on, the pandemic was over, let’s go to India.