Travel plans begin even before the winter holidays begin. But one of the first problems is that when you visit those photogenic places on Instagram, the crowds can ruin the fun. While the usual options come to mind, there are plenty of other places that offer a new experience, yet offer a crowded atmosphere.
A rainbow descending at arm’s length
If someone asks me to choose a place to visit, the first thing that comes to mind is Manali’s Jugni or Jogini Waterfall. Families trek slowly, intermittently, making their way up the hill. The waterfall’s splash and the sun’s rays piercing it create a photogenic scene. There’s no need to wait for rain to see a rainbow. Here, the entire rainbow is not only visible, but also touchable. If you have a new generation of children in your family, this view and experience will prove to be absolutely aesthetic and Instagram-friendly. If you’re drenched in sweat after a trek, Salthar, a beautiful and tranquil destination near Manali, is known for its natural beauty, trekking trails, and local culture. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a quieter experience, a short distance from the main city of Manali, where you can enjoy the cafes and traditional atmosphere of old Manali.
The Vashishtha Ashram has two ponds for men and women. Bathing here not only provides relief but is also believed to alleviate skin problems. If you have some trekking experience, consider the Bhrigu Lake Trek. This moderately difficult route is known for its steep climb and rapid elevation gain (approximately 14,100 feet). It’s a 10-12-kilometer trek, starting from Gulaba village and ending at Rolakoli (Base Camp), and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and spectacular Himalayan views. Arriving here on a moonlit night, the canal will appear as if the moon has descended into a bowl. Nearby are Dudhi Lake, the Priyadarshini Range, the Lamadugh Trek, and the Pandu Ropa Trek, where nature and adventure await you in abundance.
Can become a ski master
Manali is a good place for river rafting. If you’re traveling to Manali, make sure it’s snowy, making it an ideal time for snow skiing. This exciting activity is enjoyed during the months of January-February (and even March) with snowfall. Solang Valley, about 14 kilometers from Manali, is a popular destination with slopes for all levels. Gulaba is a good area for beginners and offers spectacular views. Along with skiing, exciting sports like snowboarding, snow trekking, zorbing, and paragliding are also available between December and February. You can also take a dedicated skiing course here, along with experiencing the skiing.
Today I am above the sky below
If you want to enjoy paragliding, you should definitely visit Sonamarg, famous as the gateway to the ancient Silk Road connecting Kashmir with Tibet. This paragliding route offers breathtaking views, including the Betaab Valley, famous in Hindi cinema. If you can’t reach Sonamarg, head to Bir Billing, India’s paragliding capital, located in Kangra district. You can reach Bir via Mandi. Major events like the Paragliding World Cup are held here, attracting tourists and pilots from around the world.
One of the best paragliding destinations in the world, this area is renowned for its panoramic views, favorable weather, and excellent thermals, making it ideal for paragliding. The area is divided into two parts, Billing for takeoff and Bir for landing. The landing spot also offers some of the most beautiful sunsets. One advantage of visiting this place is that if you have the time, you can become a trained paraglider while on vacation. I took a paragliding course here; within just 10 days, you can be able to fly your own glider.
Let’s go somewhere far away
Located in the Sutlej Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Beed Tattapani trek is a natural hot spring site known for its sulphurous waters and natural beauty. Trekking routes open from here to Shimla and beyond. You can also visit the Baidyanath Temple and Dharamshala. At the Pottery Club, you can create clay art with your children and family and take home a keepsake.
There are also jungle gym clubs that take groups of people deep into the jungle and practice outdoors. Bungee jumping is also available in abundance in Beed. While the region offers the thrill of paragliding, its Buddhist monasteries offer a peaceful experience. It is a renowned center for meditation and spiritual studies, as well as for eco-tourism.
Icy River Adventure
If you’re looking to add another unique destination to your bucket list, the Chadar Trek is a challenging and thrilling experience in the Zanskar Valley of Ladakh. Tourists and locals walk across the frozen Zanskar River from village to village. This trek, renowned for its sub-zero temperatures of -20°C to -30°C and icy landscapes, takes approximately 8-9 days. This trek is only available once a year. Along with trekking, this place also offers opportunities for ice climbing.
Before embarking on any of these activities, it’s crucial to start working on your health. Mental control and patience are crucial here. Nature doesn’t forewarn you, and you never know when a situation might trigger panic. Oxygen levels are already low, and if your mental state is also unstable, it won’t take long for a mountain to turn into a mountain!
Look, don’t forget
- Start preparing at least 2-4 weeks before your trip. Walk 3-5 kilometers daily. If possible, practice climbing stairs, as you’ll be climbing mountains.
- Try cycling, slow running, or swimming. This will increase lung capacity and help your body adapt to working with less oxygen.
- Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily. Coconut water or juice are also good options. Eat iron-rich foods (spinach, jaggery, and dates), as these increase the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity.
- Wear 3-4 layers of thin clothing instead of one heavy jacket during the trek. This helps retain body heat.
- Wear sports shoes or trekking shoes with good grip. Break in new shoes for 2-3 days before your trip to prevent blisters.
- Be sure to carry sunglasses and sunscreen, as UV rays in the mountains can damage the skin and eyes.
Mountains are revered
Mountains are not just places for walking and picnics. They are revered and environmentally important. So, when the mountains are giving you joy, do not leave them with the sorrow of dirt or garbage while returning. Keep in mind that there is no garbage vehicle or sanitation worker there who will clean it after you leave. This is your civic sense, which you should not forget when you go to the mountains. Our rivers originate from the mountains. The garbage spread there ultimately pollutes our drinking water. Do not consider the mountains only as a ‘picnic spot’. Respect the people living there and their traditions.
