Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh: A Himalayan Wilderness of Waterfalls, Wild Rivers and Untamed Biodiversity

Tucked away in the north-eastern-most corner of India, where the Eastern Himalayas collide with the Indo-Burma ranges, lies a land so rugged and remote that it remains one of the world's last true "blank spots" on the map. This is Arunachal Pradesh’s Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary.



Spanning an astronomical 4,149 square kilometres in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Dibang Valley, this sanctuary is not just a protected forest; it is a living, breathing fortress of biodiversity. For the premium traveller and the seasoned trekker, Dibang represents the "Final Frontier"—a place where tigers roam at altitudes of 4,000 meters and the ancient traditions of the Idu Mishmi tribe serve as the ultimate law of the land.

Geography: The Vertical Kingdom



The sheer scale of Dibang is defined by its verticality. The sanctuary’s altitude ranges from a temperate 1,800 meters to the permanent snowline at over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet).

The landscape is a chaotic, beautiful symphony of:



Deep River Gorges: Carved by the forceful Dri, Mathun, and Talon rivers.

Alpine Meadows: Known locally as Uyea, these high-altitude grasslands are often draped in a thick veil of mist.



Glacial Lakes: Most notably the Kahaiwhite Snow Lake near the Indo-China border, named after the highest peak, Kahaii Kala.



This geographical isolation has preserved an "unbroken sequence" of vegetation—from tropical evergreen forests to sub-alpine shrubs and high-altitude tundra.

Biodiversity: The Ghost Tigers and Golden Takins



Dibang is a global biodiversity hotspot and part of the Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve. It acts as a biological bridge between the species of the Indian subcontinent and those of Southeast Asia.

The High-Altitude Tiger



In a discovery that shook the conservation world, tigers were documented here at altitudes exceeding 3,500 meters. These "Ghost Tigers" are protected by the local Idu Mishmi people, whose mythology dictates that killing a tiger is equivalent to killing a brother.

Rare & Endemic Species



Mishmi Takin: This large, golden-haired goat-antelope is the sanctuary's most iconic resident.

Red Panda: Found in the northern bamboo thickets.



Musk Deer: Two distinct species inhabit the higher ridges.

Mishmi Wren-Babbler: A bird so rare it was "lost" to science for nearly 60 years before being rediscovered in these hills.

Monal & Tragopan: The sanctuary is a stronghold for the iridescent Sclater’s Monal and the elusive Blyth’s Tragopan.

The Land of a Thousand Cascades: Waterfalls of Dibang



If Dibang had a soundtrack, it would be the roar of falling water. Due to the region’s extreme rainfall and steep gradients, waterfalls are omnipresent.

Matu Waterfall (Chigu Falls): Located near the Chigu campsite (Acheso), this is perhaps the most accessible "major" waterfall. It cascades down a jagged cliff face into a turquoise pool, surrounded by dense ferns.



Mawu Aando Falls: A short trek from the main road leads to this thundering waterfall where you can soak in its beauty from a viewing deck. You can also safely access the stream below the waterfall for a refreshing bath.

Dechaa Falls: This gorgeous multi-tiered tall waterfall is just by the main road and it empties itself into the Dri river. A pit stop by the road treats you to this stunning waterfall. When the water levels are low in the Dri river, one can cross onto the other bank and stand right under the waterfall.



Other named waterfalls include Alubru Falls, Ahi Falls and Kaha Falls. These waterfalls can either be seen or heard from the main road or in some cases, you can walk right up to it. In addition to these named waterfalls, there are many other unnamed waterfall giants that prop up during the summer season when the snow melts and also during the rainy season. All in all, it makes for a spectacular experience.



The Unnamed Giants: While many falls in the sanctuary remain unnamed on official maps, trekking along the Dri River Valley reveals dozens of seasonal cascades that drop from heights of over 100 meters, particularly stunning during the post-monsoon window (September–October).

Trekking the Legend: The Seven Lakes Trek



For the elite adventurer, the Seven Lakes Trek starting from Anini is the "Holy Grail" of Indian trekking. This 50-kilometre journey is physically demanding but offers views that rival the Swiss Alps or the Patagonia wilderness.

The Seven Emerald Sisters:

Lake 1 (Emuli): The gateway to the high altitudes.

Lake 2 & 3 (Chenni & Dinni): Twin lakes reflecting the jagged peaks.

Huhu Uyea: A sprawling glacial lake often partially frozen until late June.



Assy & Achanga Uyea: The highest points of the trek, offering panoramic views of the Tibetan border peaks.

Travel Tip: This is a "Grade: Difficult" trek. You will need local Idu Mishmi porters and guides, as the trails are often overgrown and require expert navigation. ️

Heritage & Culture: Guardians of the Valley



The Idu Mishmi tribe are the stewards of this sanctuary. Their culture is deeply animistic, centred around the belief that humans and wildlife are part of the same spiritual lineage.

Athu-Popu: A sacred site located at 3,500m near the Kayala Pass. It is believed to be the resting place of departed souls on their journey to the afterlife.

Traditional Taboos: The tribe practices strict conservation through taboos. Hunting of certain species (like tigers and takins) is forbidden during specific periods, which has effectively preserved Dibang’s wildlife better than any modern law could.

Plan Your Premium Journey (2026 Edition)



Best Time to Visit

For Trekkers: Late June to early October.

For Birdwatchers: March to May (the flowering season of Rhododendrons).

For Luxury/Relaxation: October to February (Clear skies and snow-capped vistas).

How to Reach



Fly: The nearest major airport is Dibrugarh (Assam).

Drive: A two-day journey from Dibrugarh via Roing. The drive across the 9-km Bhupen Hazarika Setu and the Mayodia Pass (2,666m) is a highlight in itself.

Stay: Opt for the Mishmi Hill Resort in Anini or the Chigu Camp for a "glamping" experience at the edge of the wilderness. During my visit there, I stayed at Mili Homestay, a traditional Idu Mishmi home surrounded by snow capped mountains.

Essential Permits



Arunachal Pradesh requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian citizens and a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreigners. These are now easily processed online but should be secured at least 3 weeks in advance.



Final Thought: Dibang is not a destination you "tick off" a list; it is a landscape that demands respect and patience. Whether you are there to spot a Red Panda or to stand in the spray of a hidden waterfall, you are entering a world that has remained unchanged for millennia. Welcome to the last wild frontier.

Other tourist attractions in Arunachal Pradesh:



1) Golden Pagoda, Namsai: A radiant beacon of Buddhist heritage in India’s North East

2) Traditional wooden hanging bridges of Arunachal Pradesh

3) Mayodia Pass: Arunachal Pradesh’s high altitude gem

4) Anini: Gorgeous hill station of India

5) Ranaghat Bridge near Pasighat: Mesmerizing view of the Brahmaputra river



6) The world of rhododendrons between Mechuka and Lamang

7) India’s Last Cafe: Gorgeous pit stop enroute Lamang, Arunachal Pradesh

8) Lamang: Unknown snow covered paradise of India

9) Arunachal Pradesh’s Kaho: The first village of India

10) Emuli Grasslands: Gateway to the hidden seven lakes trek of Arunachal Pradesh



11) Tak-Tsang Gompa or T Gompa: As serene as it gets

12) Jaswantgarh War Memorial: Great pit stop enroute Tawang

13) Thukje Chueling Ani Gompa: Beautiful nunnery in Tawang

14) Sela Pass: A high altitude Himalayan wonderland

15) Snow scenes from Sela Pass, Arunachal Pradesh



16) Arunachal’s Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary: Birdwatcher’s paradise in the Himalayas

17) Dirang: Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden magical world

18) Tawang: India’s true Shangri-la

19) The serene and majestic Tawang Gompa

20) Tongpen La View Point: A Himalayan vista



21) Penga Teng Tso: A high altitude Himalayan lake

22) Sangetsar Lake: Abundance of Himalayan vistas

23) Heavenly Sela Lake in the Eastern Himalayas of India

24) Jung Falls: A sensational setting

25) Ugyenling Monastery: Birth place of the 6th Dalai Lama

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Lamang: Unknown Snow Covered Paradise of India

The locals refer to it as the ‘Last Shangri La on Earth’. It is a gorgeous village located at a height of 11,154 feet above MSL on the Indo-China border in Arunachal Pradesh. It is also a military camp that is home to the Indian army and the ITBP personnel. It is the land of tall Himalayan mountains, thick coniferous forests and umpteen snow fed waterfalls and rivers. I am talking about the mountainous village of Lamang that is located on the India-China border in the Shi Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh.



Located about 40 kms from the town of Mechuka, the paradise experience of Lamang begins from the valley of Mechuka itself. The human settlements and buildings give way to gorgeous alpine forests that is full of exotic flora and fauna. As you head closer to Lamang, the valleys get deeper, the peaks get higher and snow starts coming into view. The number of waterfalls next to the highway keep increasing and the spectacles keep getting better and richer. And if you are visiting during the spring months, you will also get to see rhododendrons blooming everywhere.



Once you cross Yorlung, the presence of ITBP and the Indian army increases, the places get even wilder and the scenes get much prettier. Once you reach the Lamang check post, you will have to park your vehicle there, get your permits checked and then continue a bit further on foot. A helicopter crash site, the Lamang army highway and the military camp are the attractions further ahead. While the army folks can go all the way till the line of control, we civilians can go only a few kilometres ahead of the Lamang checkpost.



There might not be much in Lamang village apart from the army camp, but it is the journey that is unreal. The picture perfect winding mountain roads, the pristine alpine forests, the many snow fed waterfalls falling by the road and that entice you for a cold waterfall bath, the panoramic spectacle and the diverse mountain flora and fauna all make for a fantastic experience. The Lamang military camp becomes the icing on the cake.



And the best part about this destination is that it is totally unknown, not just in India, but also in Arunachal Pradesh. Only the army folks and the locals of Shi Yomi district seem to know of this place. So, if you are looking for an offbeat mountain holiday where you can see and play in the snow, I would recommend Arunachal Pradesh’s Lamang, the unknown snow covered paradise of India.


Key things to keep in mind while visiting Lamang:



1) Carry warm wear as Lamang can get bitterly cold any time

2) Carry your ID cards, inner line permits and Lamang permit with you at all times

3) Wear good quality shoes as the walking trails are usually muddy and slushy

4) Carry some water and snacks with you at all times as there are no shops on this route

5) Mobile network is not available at Lamang

6) Do exercise caution when visiting a water body or cliff edge. Rocks can fall any time from the top and the ground can be soft after overnight rains

7) Do take all your garbage back with you
Best season to visit:



The best season to visit Lamang would have to be the spring months from March through May. This is when nature is at its most active with snow covered peaks and roads, full waterfalls and streams, flowers blooming, birds chirping actively and the weather not too cold.

The winter months from October to February would be dreamy with completely white landscapes, but it is bound to be too cold and sometimes the roads might get blocked due to heavy snowfall.

The monsoon months from June to September are the least preferred time as this is when the area receives heavy rainfall and there is a chance for lots of landslides and road blocks in the region.

Irrespective of whichever month you visit, do ensure that you head to Lamang first thing in the morning as the weather in the high altitudes is usually very unpredictable and can change at any time. As a thumb rule, weather is good till about 10 to 11 AM.

How to get permits to enter Lamang:



You need to visit the ITBP office in Mechuka at least a day in advance or first thing on the same day, show your inner line permits and Aadhaar cards, pay an entry fee of INR 200 per person and get your permits for Lamang. These permits are valid for one day and allow you to visit Lamang anytime between 7 AM and 6 PM.

How to reach there:



The nearest airports to reach Lamang would be Dibrugarh in Assam (402 kms away) and Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh (523 kms away). Mechuka has a functional airport, but it is only for the Indian army and officials. The nearest railway station would be Dibrugarh in Assam (402 kms away).

There is no way to avoid the road trip to Mechuka and Lamang. Road widening activities are currently taking place and due to which, the road is closed at certain times of the day and night between Aalo and Mechuka. It is best to start from Aalo for Mechuka as early in the morning as possible, preferably 4 to 5 AM to avoid significant delays.

As roads are still under construction, there are many stretches where the roads are in poor condition and more so during or after rains. It is best to travel in a good car and preferably with an experienced local driver.

The road from Mechuka to Lamang is in excellent condition.

Where to stay:



The nearest place to stay would be at Mechuka, about 35-40 kms away. Mechuka has homestays, hotels and resorts that cater to a wide range of budgets.

Where to eat:



There are no places to eat in Lamang. You have to avail one of three options:

1) Carry your packed food from Mechuka

2) Eat at the langar of Gurudwara Shri Tap Ashtan Sahib that is located between Mechuka and Lamang. The langar is open 24 hours and they serve delicious North Indian food that includes Roti, chawal, dal, subzi, kheer and chai.

3) Eat at India’s last cafe near to Jang Bahadur Falls. This place is located right before the army checkpost and they serve biscuits, cookies and cakes with tea and coffee.

Other nearby tourist attractions:



1) The picturesque Mechuka valley with its wooden bridges, monasteries, Buddhist culture and surreal views

2) Gorgeous forest highway between Mechuka and Lamang



3) Gurudwara Shri Tapo Ashtan Sahib: Lovely gurudwara run by the Indian army at the confluence of two mountain rivers

4) Dorjeeling village: A gorgeous valley settlement located a few kilometres from Mechuka



5) Samden Yangchak Monastery: A 400 year old Buddhist monastery that offers panoramic views of Mechuka town and valley

6) Siko Dido Waterfall: A tall waterfall located on the way to Mechuka from Aalo

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Nepal for the Unconventional Traveler: Everest Base Camp and Manaslu Circuit Off the Mainstream Trail

Trekking in Nepal is often reduced to two words: Everest Base Camp. Yet for those drawn to authenticity, the Himalayas offer much more than a popular trail.

In this article, I’ll explore two routes that reveal the soul of Nepal: the iconic Everest Base Camp Trek and the lesser-known Manaslu Circuit Trek. Both challenge your body, but more importantly, they shift your perspective.

These aren’t tourist experiences. They are journeys—quiet, humbling, and, at times, beautifully uncomfortable.

What It Means to Travel Differently

Not every traveler wants luxury lodges and glossy itineraries. Some seek something else—a place to walk without performance, where encounters happen naturally and landscapes speak louder than itineraries.

Both Everest and Manaslu offer this, depending on how you approach them. The key is to slow down, stay curious, and respect the rhythm of the land.

Everest Base Camp Trek - Real Trails, Raw Views, Unfiltered Nepal

The Everest Base Camp Trek often draws crowds, and it’s easy to dismiss it as overdone. That would be a mistake. Done with care, this trek remains one of the most rewarding experiences in the Himalayas.

Starting from Lukla, you pass through Namche Bazaar, climb steadily to Tengboche Monastery, and eventually stand beneath the towering Khumbu Icefall. But it’s not about Everest itself. It’s about mornings with clear skies, soft-spoken guides who know the trail by heart, and the quiet pride of making it on foot.

Manaslu Circuit Trek: The Quiet Trail



If Everest feels like a chorus, Manaslu is a solo instrument—simple, haunting, and powerful. The Manaslu Circuit Trek remains one of Nepal’s least disturbed routes. It winds through dense forests, stone villages, and across the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m).

You won’t find souvenir stalls or café bakeries here. Instead, you’ll walk alongside yaks, greet monks at hillside gompas, and feel the quiet presence of the mountains. It’s a different kind of reward—less celebratory, more meditative.

Culture in Layers: Sherpa and Tibetan Worlds

Both treks move through culturally rich areas, each distinct. On the Everest route, you’ll encounter Sherpa Buddhist culture—mani walls, spinning prayer wheels, and the deep-rooted reverence for the mountains.

In Manaslu, the air shifts. The villages carry a Tibetan influence, with stone houses, remote monasteries, and elders who speak a dialect passed down from across the border. This contrast isn’t just interesting—it’s immersive.

You’re not walking through scenery. You’re walking through worldviews.

Crowds and Quiet: Which Feeds You?

Everest offers connection. You’ll meet trekkers from around the globe, share tea in communal lodges, and hear a dozen languages at dinner.

Manaslu offers silence. Sometimes the only sound is the wind in the trees or the distant jingle of mule bells. There’s value in both.

If you crave solitude and reflection, Manaslu delivers. If you’re energized by people and shared effort, Everest won’t disappoint.

The Landscape’s Story

Everest is immediate. From day one, the peaks rise like stone cathedrals. The higher you go, the more the terrain hardens—glaciers, ridgelines, ice.

Manaslu unfolds slowly. It begins in lush lowlands and moves through alpine forests before revealing wide open valleys and barren, windswept passes.

If Everest is a visual climax, Manaslu is a slow build—one you feel in your body and memory.

Altitude and Acclimatization

Both treks reach altitudes over 5,000 meters. EBC tops out at 5,364m at base camp. Manaslu’s high point, Larkya La, sits slightly lower at 5,160m.

Manaslu ascends more gradually, which can help with acclimatization. Everest begins at a higher altitude in Lukla, so your first few days are critical. Both require patience. This isn’t a race—it’s a process of adaptation and awareness.

Permit Requirements: Know Before You Go

Everest Base Camp Trek:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Khumbu Rural Municipality Entry Fee

Manaslu Circuit Trek:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

TIMS card

Note: A Licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers are required if you plan to trek in the Manaslu region.

Manaslu’s additional permits and guide requirements may seem like a hassle. They protect the trail’s integrity and ensure local involvement.

Best Seasons for Both Treks

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal. You’ll find clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stable trail conditions.

Avoid monsoon (June–August)—landslides and poor visibility are common.

In winter (December–February), Manaslu’s pass may be closed due to snow, and high-altitude nights are bitterly cold on both routes.

Shoulder months—late November or early March—offer quiet trails with manageable weather, especially for EBC.

Accommodations: What to Expect

Everest has range. From basic teahouses to upgraded lodges with hot showers and Wi-Fi (in some villages), it’s evolved to handle global trekkers.

Manaslu is simpler. Teahouses are locally built, family-run, and often without modern amenities. Still, the welcome is sincere, and the food—dal bhat, momos, potatoes—is hearty.

What you lose in comfort, you gain in connection.

Trek Costs: Everest vs. Manaslu

Everest Base Camp (12–14 days):

· Group tour: $1,300–$1,800

· Independent (w/o guide): ~$900+

Manaslu Circuit (14–17 days):

Guided only: $1,300–$2,000 (permits, meals, transport, support)

EBC gives flexibility for solo trekkers. Manaslu’s higher cost includes necessary logistics—transport to trailhead, restricted permits, and professional guidance.

Safety and Support on the Trail

Everest has more infrastructure: health posts, helicopter rescue options, and a larger network of guides and porters.

Manaslu is remote. You’ll rarely see helicopters. Guides are essential—not just for safety, but for cultural access.

In both cases, travel insurance with high-altitude coverage is non-negotiable.

Environmental and Social Responsibility

Trekking should leave more behind than footprints. Choose local agencies that:

· Hire local staff at fair wages
· Minimize waste
· Educate trekkers on trail etiquette and culture
· Avoid plastic

Stay on trails. Respect customs—whether it’s removing your shoes in a monastery or listening more than speaking.

Which Trek Is Right for Traveller?

Feature	Everest Base Camp	Manaslu Circuit
Popularity	High	Low
Cultural Highlight	Sherpa Buddhism	Tibetan Influence
Infrastructure	Developed	Basic
Permit Process	Simple	Restricted, guide required
Trail Type	Structured, busy	Varied, remote
Ideal For	First-time trekkers, bucket list	Repeat trekkers, cultural depth

The best choice depends not on the trail, but on the type of experience you want to have.

Practical Trekking Advice

• Train before your trek—especially cardio and hill walking
• Test your boots beforehand to prevent blisters
• Travel with a local operator for permits, logistics, and safety
• Acclimatize properly: rest days are not optional
• Bring layers: expect warm days and freezing nights

Also, pack light. The less you carry, the more freely you’ll walk.

So, who’s the winner?

It depends on what you're looking for. But if we judge by authenticity, cultural depth, and trail solitude, the Manaslu Circuit Trek edges ahead for travelers who value raw, immersive experiences.

On the other hand, if you're seeking dramatic landscapes, world-renowned routes, and a sense of achievement that resonates across continents, the Everest Base Camp Trek holds its ground as a timeless classic.

For first-time trekkers, Everest offers stronger infrastructure and broader accessibility.

For those returning to Nepal—or looking to escape the obvious—Manaslu may just be the trek they never knew they needed.

Whichever you choose, both routes represent what trekking in Nepal is truly about: connecting deeply with the land, its people, and a rhythm far removed from the ordinary.

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How to plan a budget friendly trip to Manali

One of the most well-liked tourist spots in India is Manali. Everyone enjoys visiting Manali at least once in their lives. Whether on a lone quest for inner peace and adventure, a backpacking trip with your besties, or a honeymoon getaway with your significant other, Manali and its mountains will never cease to captivate you. The budget-friendly trip to Manali will ensure you get a taste of the area's well-known tourist attractions, and its friendliness will compel you to return. It is the most popular vacation spot for first-timers and regular tourists who frequently travel here use the Manali taxi service. Here is a budget-friendly travel itinerary for Manali.

Budget friendly travel option

By Bus: This is the least expensive and fastest way to get to Manali. The greatest time to take a bus is after 9 PM because you won't miss the light of day. An average state bus will only cost you Rs. 800, but you will have to make some compromises in terms of comfort. A Volvo luxury bus will cost you between Rs. 1200 and Rs. 1500 per person.

By Air: The closest airport to Manali, Kullu Manali Airport (Bhuntar), is reachable by direct flights at reasonable rates, and you can generally find discounts on flights. Since there aren't any commuting services like Ola and Uber in this area, you can rent a car in Manali when you get there to get to your accommodation.

By Rail: There is no direct rail that goes to Manali. Manali's closest railway station, Jogindernagar, connects the mountain town to several significant cities. You can also go to Manali by train from Chandigarh and Ambala. From the railheads, you can opt for either buses/taxi services in Manali.

Tips and tricks for an unforgettable budget trip to Manali!

Hostels staycation



When travelling on a budget to Manali, it is best to stay in hostels because hotel rates will be higher. You will get the opportunity to engage with other guests while staying at the hostel and be amazed by the cultural diversity and ethical standards. Any hostel stay would start at Rs. 250.

Food

To make your 3 to 4-day vacation to Manali on a budget more enticing and refreshing, you must try the local cuisine. You will pay INR 400 daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Check out these Manali specialities to awaken your taste buds: khatta, sidu, babru, trout, patande, bhey, aktori, and tudkiya bhat.

Rent a vehicle for travelling

One of the best options is to rent a bike because it is less expensive. Depending on the sort of bike, you'll pay anywhere from Rs. 600 to Rs. 1500 a day. Alternatively, you can pay between Rs. 1500 and 2500 per day OR about Rs. 400 for a one-way trip from Old Manali to New Manali from an affordable Manali taxi service (approximately 2 to 3 km).

Budget friendly tourist attractions for Manali trip

Mall Road



Manali's Mall Road is the busiest tourist destination for visitors to Himachal Pradesh and is frequently referred to as the city's centre. There is plenty to keep you busy for the day on Manali's Mall Road, which is well-known for its street shopping explorations and is bustling with a variety of activities.

Visit the Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple before continuing down the Mall road. It has the ideal fusion of architectural styles and vibrant tones to capture on camera. The main shrine's focal point is the Sakyamuni shrine. The Tibetan-style crafts on display are simply amazing, and they make the ideal gift that will fit the bill and not detract from your low-budget trip to Manali.

Winter Carnival

How about an affordable carnival? You're correct, of course! Winter Carnival is one of the best destinations for your inexpensive trip to Manali. Manali, one of the most exciting tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh, gets ready to ring in the new year with aplomb and celebrations each year around New Year's Eve.

Himachal Winter Carnival is the event's official name and is undoubtedly one of the most distinctive and exciting cultural experiences. The Manali Winter Carnival, the biggest tourism occasion in Himachal, promotes regional culture and winter activities to draw visitors during the slow winter season.

Old Manali

The tourist path crosses the Manalsu River bridge into Manali's "Old Manali" neighbourhood to see a different side of the town. The village's unusual charm will make you feel like you've entered another world. Visitors, especially lone travellers, who frequently praise the city as a place to unwind and relax. Old Manali is among the best places to visit on a limited-budget trip to Manali.

The Jogini Falls

Jogni Falls, another name for this magnificent cascade, is located 7.5 kilometres from Manali's bus terminal and 4 kilometres from Vashisht Temple. From the Vashisht temple, a 1.5-hour climb will take you to the waterfall. The entire stroll is gorgeous, offering breath taking vistas of Manali.

Solang Valley

Solang Valley is one of the incredible places to visit in Manali on a tight budget and is located between Beas Kund and Solang Village, 13 kilometres from Manali. The adventure activities in the Solang Valley, such as skiing, river rafting, and paragliding, are truly unique experiences.

Temple of Vashisht and Hot Springs

This 4,001-year-old temple, which lies 5 kilometres from Old Manali, is devoted to the ancient Indian sage Vashisht, who served as Ram and Lakshman's guru. This temple is well-known for its hot springs, which are revered and said to have healing effects on the skin. Both men and women have their own private, Turkish-style bathing cubicles.

Temple of Hidimba

Three kilometres from Old Manali, in the cedar-covered Dhun Giri Forest, you'll find a historic cave temple constructed in 1553. It is dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, a character in the Indian epic Mahabharata and the wife of Bhima. This temple is open every day from 8 AM to 6 PM, and there is no entrance fee.



Make sure to find a package deal for river rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, and so on, rather than a single one if you're feeling adventurous or wish to try some of the sports. When compared to paying for individual sports, package deals give you more for a lower price. Manali's lush green valleys and adventure sports will elevate your mind and soul and are worth every penny.

Note: The pictures in this article are courtesy of wikipedia.org and have been borrowed under the Creative Commons license. Each photograph has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.org.

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Tabo: Himalayan Village famous for its delicious apples

It is referred to as the ‘Ajanta of the Himalayas’. It is home to a Buddhist monastery that is over a thousand years old and that is considered one of the holiest monasteries in all of India and the Himalayas. It is also the place where you can find some of India’s most delicious apples. I am talking about Tabo, the simple Himalayan village of mud huts that is situated in a bowl-shaped valley by the Spiti river in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh in India.



Situated at an altitude of 10, 760 feet, Tabo village lives a quiet existence amidst the mighty Himalayas. People usually visit this laidback Himalayan village for its 10th century Buddhist monastery with its many beautiful murals and wall paintings. The Tabo monastery, is one of those rare Buddhist monasteries to be located in a valley than on top of a hill. Just above the monastery, there are a number of caves carved into the cliff and that were used by monks for meditation. These caves are also home to an assembly hall and some faded paintings. It is these caves that give Tabo the title of ‘Ajanta of the Himalayas’ as they bear an uncanny resemblance to the Ajanta caves near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. In addition to these caves and the monastery, one can see a whole bunch of stupas and chortens all throughout the Tabo rocky landscape. While the monastery, caves and stupas are certainly special, I love Tabo for its juicy and absolutely lip smacking apples. Tabo’s apple orchards, located in the fertile valley of the Spiti river, bear fruit every year between August and October and I think they are the best apples in all of India. The colder environment ensures that the apples are juicier and that they get fully ripe a good 45 to 60 days later than most of the other apple orchards of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir.

Tabo is also a lovely destination for a Himalayan village holiday. Fresh food, great hospitality, spectacular landscapes, lots of walking trails and lots and lots of sun make it the kind of place where you can completely de-stress and rejuvenate your physical and mental batteries.



Personally, I will always go to Tabo in September and October for its apples. The joy of biting into a fresh apple plucked straight from an apple tree and letting its juice fall on to your t shirt is something truly special. Not only are these apples simply outstanding, they are also available super cheap (like INR 40 per kg for the golden apples). Which means, during apple season, you can totally indulge in apples by having them throughout the day and in different forms.

If you are an apple lover, I would recommend that you visit Tabo during September and October. You can visit during the other times too and go about visiting its monastery, many walking trails and enjoying its pristine setting. It is an important pit stop on the Spiti valley trail and one that I would recommend heavily.



How to reach here:

The nearest airport would be Chandigarh, about 474 kms away.

The nearest railway station would be Shimla, about 362 kms away.

The nearest large bus station would either be Shimla or Kaza.

The only way to reach Tabo is by road. The route is a narrow mountain highway that is at the mercy of nature (landslides, snowfall, accidents, etc.) and hence one should budget in some buffer time to accommodate for delays.

It is best if you have your own mode of transportation. However, buses run by HPSRTC will also take you there, though the number of buses plying every day would be limited to a few.

Best season to visit:

Tabo is open all year round.

If apple season is on your mind, late September to early October should be the best time to visit.

The peak tourist season is between April and July, which also happens to be the summer season. As more people visit Spiti valley during this time, except roads to be busy and all hotels to be booked in advance.

Autumn, winters and early spring are best for people who can handle the cold, the difficulties that come with it, but love the peace and tranquillity as tourists usually avoid these months.



Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Dhankar: Prettiest village of Spiti valley

2) Nako: A rustic Himalayan gem

3) Kalpa: A hill station that offers spectacular views of Kinnaur Kailash

4) Chitkul: Himalayan village with cleanest air in India

5) Baspa river trek: A scenic mountain trek in Himachal Pradesh

6) Sangla: Another village famous for its apples and views of Kinnaur Kailash

7) Sarahan: A village known for its apples and ski slopes

8) Pin valley national park: A remote himalayan wilderness known for sightings of the elusive snow leopard

9) Langza: The Himalayan village that is known for fossils of marine animals

10) Ki Monastery: A stunning monastery surrounded by snow capped mountains near Kaza

11) Kibber: The village of the snow leopard

12) Komic: One of the world’s highest villages with road connectivity

13) Hikkim: The Himalayan village with the highest post office in the world

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