2018: Travel diaries

SUNDAY PIONEER lists a few places that one can explore this year

INTERNATIONAL

Dead Sea

As one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water, located at the lowest point of the Earth’s surface, the Dead Sea certainly claims a few superlatives. You may feel that you’ve landed on another planet with the barren and rugged terrain. The shores with clusters of salt rocks resemble the froth of waves frozen in motion while the blue of the water has a smooth surface. No trip to the Holy Land would be complete without experiencing the sensation of floating on the water’s surface while covered in mineral-rich mud believed to have therapeutic properties.

Machu Picchu

Located at 8,000 ft, this UNESCO World Heritage site is often referred to as The Lost City of the Incas. It’s one of the most familiar symbols of the Incan empire and also one of the most famous and spectacular sets of ruins in the world.

Cherry blossoms

Hanami — the act of cherry blossom viewing — is an extremely popular activity in Japan that attracts both locals and tourists from around the world every year. For a short week or two every year, Sakura trees blossom and Japan is transformed into a sea of pink. Take a stroll in the parks, or have a picnic under one of the many Sakura trees; spring in Japan is an extremely wonderful time. It is worth the travel to Japan just to experience this annual event. Ueno Park (Tokyo), Osaka Castle, Koriyama Castle Ruins, Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto), Gokoku Shrine (Kobe), Kanazawa Castle, Hiroshima Peace Park, Hokkaido Shrine are some of the popular tourist sites to witness cherry blossoms.

the Northern lights

The northern lights is a natural phenomenon often seen in northern latitudes from October to March. Thanks to the latitude of its stunning landscapes, Norway is one of the best holiday destinations on Earth to see this phenomenon. While it’s possible to see then from above the city itself, it’s best to head away from the centre. Choose your favourite mode of transport: snowmobiles, four-wheel drives or treks and sleds on overnight excursions or evening jaunts. One can even take a six-night cruise through Norway’s picturesque fjords to the Arctic Circle to allow for plenty of opportunities to see the northern lights.

Lavra Cave Monastry

As one of a handful of Lavras in the world, Kiev Pechersk Lavra is an experience found only in Ukraine. An active monastery, it remains a true dedication to Christianity, and even for non-religious visitors, the underground caves and preserved history provide a richly atmospheric experience.

The complex is divided into the upper lavra (owned by the Government and Kyiv Patriarchate) and the lower lavra (which belongs to the Moscow Patriarchate and contains the caves). Admission to the upper lavra allows access to the churches, several museums on site. The highlight is the fabulous hoard of gold jewellery worked for the Scythians by Greek Black Sea colonists.

Entrance to the lower lavra and the caves is free. Underground, the mummified monks’ bodies, preserved in glass cases which are believed to have healing powers.

DOMESTIC

Tawang

A place to visit is Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh which is historically and naturally endowed. It is located at a distance of 183 km from Bomdila and is situated at an altitude of 3,500 metres above sea level. The natural beauty and solitude of Gudpi and Chong-Chugmi ranges, Tawang chu River and Tawang valley are very mesmerizing. The inhabitants of the districts are all of Monpa tribes except Shyo village which is dominated by people of Tibetian origin. There are many beautiful glacial lakes in and around Tawang with crystal blue waters such as Sela lake, P.T.Tso lake, Sangetser lake, Banggachang lake and many more. These remain frozen in winter while in summer they become haven for migratory birds.

Dudhwa National Park

Dudhwa National Park, Uttar Pradesh, is home to some of the world’s most exotic wildlife including elephants, single horned rhino, the Indian narrow headed soft-shell turtle and a hugely rich diversity of birds. You can also see the elusive and endangered Ganges river dolphins as well as animals like the exotic fishing cats. From this year, Dudhwa also has luxurious stay options for the upscale wildlife enthusiasts.

Jodhpur

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. Also known as the Gateway of Thar Desert, it is a very popular tourist destination in India. The majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, vibrant festivals like Marwar Festival, Gangaur and Teej are some of the reasons to visit Jodhpur.

Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is one of the must visit places in Ladakh this year. The wide landscapes, humongous mountain faces, lovely trails, wide variety of colors and musical Shyok river flowing midst the valley will take your breath away. The major attraction is the highest motorable road, Khardung La Pass. May-Sept is the peak season to visit Nubra Valley.

Kasauli

Kasauli is a small, beautiful hill station of Himachal Pradesh located at a distance of 77 km from Shimla. This hill town is ideal for long walks along wild-flower-hedged winding roads. The town provide a charming view of Chandigarh, Shimla and the Himalayas covered with snow.  It is home to gabled colonial-era houses, orchards and green-roofed Christ Church, dating from the mid-19th century. A small temple also sits atop the hill. Nearby, the Gilbert Nature Trail winds through lush green countryside rich in birdlife.

The writer is  Karan Anand, Head, Relationships, Cox & Kings