TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS

THE REST HOUSES OF HIMACHAL PRADESH - The Dak Bungalow Trail

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Sun, 23 May 2010 21:40:00 +0000

During the pre independence days, in the mountains, when there were no roads,the babus and the common alike used the bridle paths. You must remember those old stories of traveling from village to village and how people used to spend days on these paths. In Himachal these old footpaths are still used, and you will find Dak ...Bungalows after every 12 kms in the state. Some of these are over a century old and some even date back to 1800’s. Trail Tales Outdoors invites you to this wonderful journey, as we retrace the steps of days gone by, and we promise you, it sure is awakening as much as it is refreshing. We will outfit for your travel in your style WALK, CYCLE, MOTORCYCLE, 4 WHEELS. Lets us know how many days and we chalk out the best plan for you. And we go ........

You know when we were trying to design this product at Trail Tales, we had a long discussion before, you know, just talking about our travels in the state and how we have stayed at so many wonderful places around the whole place. But we all came to the conclusion that nothing can... beat the old worldly charm of staying at rest houses any where. Especially the old ones, yes, there are what they call new rest houses (brick and mortar structures against the backdrop of grand Himalayan vistas). There is a certain image which we think we might share with everyone; thinking of these old rest houses or Dak Bungalows as they are known in old lingo, An old Chowkidar who has spent his life taking care and upkeeping the place, a certain supernatural aura surrounding these places (ooof!) deep jungles, stories of wild animals, ghosts and pre independence Mem Sahibs and their rendevouz with eloping officers and staying at these places. Well, to say some might even hold true, for in the visitor guest lists of these rest houses you do find references dating back to as far 1890's. And the locations where the rest houses are, exquisite and exclusive. There is another trivia - and this might interest the hikers, cyclists and motorcyclists alike - All the rest houses in Himachal Pradesh - at least the old ones are 12 KMS APART ... so if you say you start from Shimla, the next place where you would unwind is 12kms and so on -- At least thats what it used to be in the old days, traveling on foot you reached your night halt after 12 kms .... Makes sense ... Imagine! A deep forest, small villages, Himalayan Outdoors ... Makes you want to unwind .. and retrace these Bridle Paths ... Get in touch with the forest department Himachal Pradesh to make your bookings .. or if you want to relax and let Trails Tales do the outfitting .. connect with us ... We will outfit your holiday for HIKING, CYCLING, MOTORCYCLING, 4 Wheel Road Trip and book the places and also if you ask send across a field expert .... These trips are ONLY FOR SMALL GROUPS - Maximum 8 people ... You have destinations to choose from ... Give us a buzz or write in ... We will be glad to help you out ... Cheers and Regards --- Naysa and Dhananjay @ Trail Tales Outdoors +91-97186-30467, info.trailtales@gmail.com ... OUR BLOG - www.trailtalesoutdoors.blogspot.com OUR WEBSITE IS GONNA BE UP SOON ... www.trailtales.in

Cheers and Regards,

Dhananjay and Naysa

PARASHAR LAKE, MANDI, HIMACHAL PRADESH, cycle, hike, motorcycle, trip

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Sat, 22 May 2010 22:58:00 +0000

A QUICK GETAWAY - PARASHAR LAKE ... Mandi, Himachal Pradesh (8 hours from Delhi) Hike, Downhill Cycling, Road Trip ... Nearby Destinations Chindi, Barot, Janjehli.

Do it Yourself - Best Plan

Travel to Shimla. Spend about a day there. Bike downhill to Tattapani. Enjoy a session of Rafting on the Sutlej. 18kms (1hr). Proce...ed further towards Chindi, nestled amongst Apple orchards and rolling Meadows. A great destination for unwinding. Absolutely splendid in the Monsoons. Travel further through a great winding road towards Mandi (cycle it down) 69 kms. A day in Mandi is just as good. Its the temple town of Himachal Pradesh. Kataula is 22 kms from Mandi, from where we start towards Parashar Lake. Katindi is the base for the hike up to the lake or you can also drive up through the forest and the off road track leading up to the lake and the temple. Stay at the Forest Rest House.

Trail Tales OUtdoors can arrange for the outfit for your trip (tents, Bikes, Rafting etc). Connect with us, to arrange it from us or for any suggestions dont hesitate to call upon us or mail us. info.trailtales@gmail.com, www.trailtalesoutdoors.blogspot.com Call +91-97186-30467 (dhananjay) +91-98914-13232 (Naysa) ... Website coming up soon www.trailtales.in

These Photographs were taken in November last week 2009. It snowed that day there. We are waiting for our next trip, to visit the pristine and pure Parashar in the summers when its enveloped by green all over.

Connect with us to plan your visit for Parashar Lake, or if you need any suggestions and the outfit for your trip (tents, bikes, Rest House Booking etc)

Regards,

Naysa and Dhananjay @ Trail tales Outdoors

LADAKH - PHOTOGRAPHY - ROAD TRIP - CYCLING - 9th july - 22nd july, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Fri, 21 May 2010 14:02:00 +0000

THE DETAILS

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
• The 3 Highest Road passes in the world. The Khardungla, Tanglangla, Wari La.
• The Classic Manali – Leh Highway
• Pangong Lake
• Nubra Valley, The last bastion on the Silk Road.
• Ladakh Confluence Festival.
• Spectacular Opportunity to cycle, photograph and experience the road journey.

Introduction
Sandwiched between the Western Himalayas, the Karakorum and the Tibetan Plateau, lies the high altitude desert of Ladakh, or “Little Tibet”. Once a major halting post on the caravan route through Asia, this Buddhist land is more culturally akin to Tibet than the lowlands further south. The beautiful multi colored desert landscapes are arid and awesome and dotted with small villages inhabited by rugged-looking people of Tibetan stock. It is literally ‘a land of high passes’, characterized by tiny whitewashed villages and Buddhist monasteries set beneath a dramatic Trans Himalayan mountainscape.
There is a timeless quality about life here - ancient Lamaist monasteries, built high on sheer rock faces, the barren, almost haunting landscape of this fascinating kingdom and a way of life and culture preserved for thousands of years.
Ever since 1974 when Ladakh first became accessible to visitors, this high and arid region has captured the imagination of adventure travelers. Geographically, Ladakh is a western extension of the Tibetan Plateau and, as recently as the beginning of the nineteenth century, this mountainous country was a part of Tibet. Buddhism was brought to Ladakh by Guru Rimpoche who was born in Pakistan’s Swat Valley and this colorful religion is still practiced throughout Ladakh and neighboring Zanskar. Large numbers of monasteries, many of them occupying impressive hill-top sites, are active in the region to this day. The Muslim religion is also important in Ladakh, thanks in part to the influence of Kashmir to the west. A mixture of cultures and religions is an important element in the attraction of Ladakh as a destination for adventure travel. Perhaps more important, however, is the remarkable landscape of the area, which is particularly well-suited to the needs of trekking and trekking peak expeditions. A number of parallel mountain ranges, including the Great Himalaya Range, and then north of that the Zanskar and then Ladakh ranges, divide this territory, offering a wealth of 6000 meter peaks, and a maze of excellent trekking routes, which usually involve high pass crossings. Scattered high villages, each with its irrigated fields of barley and potatoes, add color to this otherwise quite barren environment.

TRIP OVERVIEW
Our trip starts on July 9th, 2010, from Delhi, where we board the bus to Manali, a 14 hour overnight journey, into Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh. After spending a day there on the morning of July 11th, We drive through the legendary Leh-Manali highway across the Great Himalayan Range, the world’s second highest road, only tackled by a few adventurous travellers. But the mountain scenery and high passes are incredibly beautiful. This is not for the faint hearted, but those who take advantage of the opportunity to travel this spectacular route will not be disappointed. We reach Leh on July, 13th, after an overnight stay at Sarchu.
Our acclimatization period will be spent sightseeing and exploring in and around the fascinating bazaar town of Leh and we will include visits to the area’s main Buddhist monasteries; Hemis, Shey, Thikse and Stok Palace - all incorporated into superb downhill routes for the cyclists and a verdant road trip for the non cyclists. Then we will take a superb route to Pangong Lake, crossing the Chang La, another of the highest passes in our journey. The bikers can look for some fantastic riding as they descend from the pass to the lake a ride of 56 kms. We camp by the lake in the night and the next day we are ready to cross the Wari La, The third highest motorable pass in the world, into the Nubra Valley, staying at Hunder, famous for its Bactrian camels. The scenery is spectacular with the snow-capped Karakorums providing a splendid backdrop to the lush valleys of the Shyok River. The excitement prevails as the next day we are ready to descend from the Khardungla Pass into Leh. We spend a Day in Leh experiencing the “Ladakh Confluence Festival” and then backtrack towards Manali, cycling this time through the classic Highway. If you are looking for the excitement of pure downhill, day after day through ever changing scenery, the Leh to Manali traverse is hard to beat. Group members will have the option of ascending a total of 3800 meters to cross the four main passes on the route, (although you can use the vehicle support and not cycle any uphill if you wish). Nobody will want the jeeps for the downhill though, as there is the unforgettable experience of descending 10,800 meters (35,500 feet) through some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Unquestionably one of the greatest of mountain roads, the Leh to Manali highway crosses the main Himalaya Range by a series of very high passes, including the Tanglang La at 5280 meters, the second highest road pass in the world. In addition, this classic route offers exposure to a tremendous variety of landscape and culture, linking the strongly Tibetan influenced high plateau of Ladakh with the semi arid plains of Lahaul and the lush greenery of the Kullu-Manali Valley. Once on the main route we will have the constant back up of our support jeeps and any of the group who feel the need to hitch a lift for any section of the journey will be able to do so. Given the steep and sustained nature of some of the passes, it is likely that the jeeps will be used by most of the group at some stage of the trip. From the crests of the passes, there are superb views of the major peaks of the Ladakh, Zanskar and Chandra-Bhaga ranges. We are not in a race; there will always be time to rest, take photographs and to cool hot brakes before the next amazing hairpin descent! The trip finishes with a day celebrating and relaxing in Manali and our journey back to Delhi on the evening of 22nd July, 2010.

THE ITINERARY

July 9th, 2010.
Board the evening Volvo Bus to Manali. Reach Manali on the morning of 10th July.

July 10th, 2010.
Upon arrival in Manali, transfer to Hotel. Spend the day exploring the Manali Bazaar and attend the small orientation session by the dinner. Stay @ Grade A Hotel

July 11th, 2010
Depart early morning after breakfast. Cross the Rohtang Pass in the morning and enter Lahaul valley. Lunch stop at Keylong. Carry on further on the Manali Leh highway, stopping briefly at Baralacha Pass and continue towards Sarchu. O/N Fixed camps.

July 12th, 2010.
Depart after breakfast, and continue your classic journey through the Great Himalayan Landscape towards Leh, crossing the Gata Loops, lachalang La, Tanglang La and finally reaching Leh by early evening. Check into Hotel. Namgyal Palace or equivalent

July 13th, 2010.
The day is spent exploring around Leh. We’ll take a 30-minute drive to Stok Monastery on the other side of the Indus Valley. There are impressive views back across to Leh and beyond to the Khardung La itself. The monastery also has an interesting museum to look around. Now we can try out our biking legs with a short climb around Stok village before dropping back to the Indus and contouring along on a jeep track to Stakpa Monastery. Here, we will cross the Indus again and ride back along a tarmac road to Thiksey Monastery. We will have a guided tour of this impressive Buddhist monastery, commanding an imposing position atop a small hill. From here we will probably load up our bikes and drive back to our hotel. If time allows we’ll stop to visit the Lingshed Hostel. The hostel is a relatively new venture and is being supported by KE and The Juniper Trust. Initially set up by a local monk the hostel provides home from home care for children aged between 5 - 15 years old who come to Leh from the remote Lingshed area of Zanskar. O/N Hotel Namgyal Palace or equivalent

July 14th, 2010.
Depart Early morning after breakfast, towards Pangong Lake. Reach The Changla Pass By early afternoon, and the cyclists descend towards Pangong Lake, a distance of 56 kms. We have the support jeeps at bay, so if you don’t wanna ride any further just Hop in. O/n Camp Pangong.

July 15th, 2010
Depart the lake after breakfast and a wonderful session of Photography, towards the village Tuktak and continue your Journey towards Wari La Pass. Descend towards Khalsar in the Nubra Valley and continue towards Hunder. O/N Organic Camp.

July 16th, 2010.
Early morning photography sessions, and we continue our journey towards Khardungla Pass, the highest motorable pass in the world. This is our 3rd pass whilst riding, and we descend the pass towards Leh. O/N Hotel namgyal Palace.

July 17th, 2010
Explore Leh Bazaars, and be apart of the festivities at The Ladakh Confluence festival. O/N Hotel namgyal Palace or equivalent

July 18th, 2010.
Start Your wonderful journey, cycling through the Manali Leh Highway. We drive to Upshi and ascend the Tanglang La pass. The Taglang La (5280m / 17324ft) is the second highest road pass in the world and is the first major pass on our journey to Manali. For those who do not fancy the challenge there is the option of taking the support bus to the top. But, for the majority, it is an early start for the 30 km / 19 miles of steady uphill to the summit of the pass. The scenery becomes more impressive as we move slowly southwards towards the snow-covered peaks that make up the watershed of the main Himalaya range. At the summit we can briefly celebrate that we have now been to the summit of the world’s three highest road passes and pose for yet another picture alongside the sign that reads, "you have reached the second highest road pass in the world". We’ll not want to spend too long on the summit, as today is a long day, so we set off quickly down to the Moray Plains, which is geographically a part of the Tibetan Plateau – despite it lying completely within India. The colours generated by the low afternoon light, splashed across this high plateau, create an enchanting atmosphere for the final 30 km / 19 miles of riding. The plateau ends with a sudden drop into the rift valley of Pang, which is almost as spectacular as the Grand Canyon. Stopping a short distance beyond Pang we make camp on the banks of the river. As the light finally disappears the shapes and forms of the surrounding mountains take on a completely different perspective under a sea of stars and we savour yet another day of Himalayan mountain biking magic. Ride distance approx. 100 km / 62 miles - ascent 1667 metres (5470 feet) and descent 1505 metres (4938 feet). O/N Camp

July, 19th, 2010.
What a ride! From Pang towards Sarchu. The giant rollercoaster continues and today we set off for the Lachalung La (5065m / 16618ft) and the Nakli La (4900m / 16077ft). The slopes on either side of the road have tall rock pillars eroded into fantastic shapes and at one point the road has been blasted through the side of a cliff in the most improbable place. The magnitude of this feat of engineering, and the effort required to build this road, should never be taken for granted especially as it allows us hedonist mountain bikers the chance to witness this beautiful part of our planet from the comfort of a bike saddle. After cresting the Lachalung La we make a short, fast descent and then a short climb to the Nakli La. From this pass we begin a brilliant descent to Brandy Nullah (crossing Whiskey Bridge) through a series of 22 hairpin bends called the ‘Gata Loops’. Many of the hairpins can be short cut in true mountain bike style by using the footpaths created by the hardy road workers. The final part of the ride is on a relatively flat road along the Tsarap River to our campsite just past Sarchu, which is on the border between the states of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Altitude at camp: 4400 metres (14,436 feet). Ride distance approx. 88 km / 55 miles - ascent 1372 metres (4500 feet) and descent 1450 metres O/N Camp.

July 20th, 2010.
A 2-3 hour climb, gradually gaining height, up to the saddle of the Bara Lacha La (4880m / 16011ft) is rewarded by close-up views of the peaks of the Chandra-Bhaga Range. The Bara Lacha La stands at the crossroads of the Spiti, Zanskar, Lahaul and Rupshu areas of the inner Himalaya. We now have a long descent of 45 km / 28 miles to Jespa, which is situated next to the Bhaga River in the Lahaul Valley. From the high desert we then enter an alpine climate with green hillsides and forested slopes - a welcome change from the dry, desert scenery of Ladakh. We stay in a small hotel at Jespa, it has good basic showers and extra strong beer. Altitude 3400 metres (11,155ft). Ride distance. 71 km / 44 miles - ascent 710 metres (2330 feet) and descent 1806 metres From here it is another 25 kms to keylong our stay for the night. O/N Hotel

July 21st, 2010.
The land becomes increasingly greener as we get closer to the watershed of the Himalaya and we could easily imagine ourselves to be in Switzerland such is the beauty of the alpine scenery. Now fit and full of confidence we start our last climb to the Rohtang La, which is at the relatively modest altitude of 3990 metres (13,091 feet). The semi-arid Lahauli valleys give way to lush green slopes, and from the top of the Rohtang (if the weather is clear) we glimpse the green, forested slopes of the Kulu-Manali Valley. The monsoon rains that are deposited on the southern slopes of the Rohtang completely transform the scenery. A mind-blowing 52 km / 32 miles and 2000 metres (6562 feet) of descent to Manali (and our comfortable hotel) completes the main part of our trip.

July 22nd, 2010.
Explore the Manali bazaar by the day, and board the evening bus back to Delhi. End of trip and our services.

(Important: This day-to-day schedule should be taken only as a general guide. Although we update our dossiers on a regular basis, to take into account such things as changes to biking routes and changes in the routing or availability of local transport, it is not possible to guarantee that any of our trips will run exactly according to the proposed itinerary. A variety of factors, including adverse weather conditions and difficulties with transportation, can lead to enforced changes. The trip leader will make any changes that are necessary. )

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1) When does LADAKH PHOTOGRAPHY, CYCLING & ROAD TRIP take place?
The LADAKH PHOTOGRAPHY, CYCLING & ROAD TRIP takes place from the 9th-22nd of July 2010.

2) Where does the trip start from and where does it end.
The Trip begins and finishes in Delhi while Manali, Sarchu, Leh, pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardungla Pass, Wari La, Changla, Pangong Lake, Tanglangla etc, amongst highlights.

3) Who are the organizers?
The Trip is organized by PhotoSplendours & Trail Tales Outdoors who have come together to put a exhilarating and unforgettable adventure for the participants. Coupled with the passion of Photography and Years of expertise in organizing outdoor events of international stature in the Himalayas. Trail Tales and PhotoSplendours present an opportunity for you to trek and capture the uncharted untouched beauty of the Himalayas and take back a cherished memoir. We welcome you to enjoy our hospitality as we promise you an experience that will remain etched in your mind and association to meet and be with likeminded individuals among some of the most pristine Himalayan ranges.

4) How does in register for the trip?
We would request you to visit our Facebook page or Blog and send us a query through email and we would provide you all details required for registration.

5) What is the entry fee and what it includes?
The entry fee for the trip is Rs. 39,999/- (Thirty Nine thousand nine hundred ninety nine) the fees includes travel from Delhi to Delhi, accommodation and food.

6) Are there any entry fee waivers?
Yes, incase you are a group of 10 members or above we will give you a 5% waiver on the fees.

7) How to deposit the participation fee ?
The fee can be deposited via Cheque/Demand Draft/or deposit cash in favor of Trail Tales. Only Delhi Cheques will be entertained.
Bank/Account Details would be provided upon request by email to info.trailtales@gmail.com

8) Would the organizers provide accidental insurance for the participants?
No, as there are no insurance companies providing this for a large group we would request you to please have your own insurances incase of any untoward incident.

9) Is it mandatory to sign an Indemnity Bond?
Yes it is absolutely mandatory for all participants to sign a Indemnity bond before embarking on this trip failing which we would unable to accept your participation.

10) What kind of fitness level should the participants have?
If your exercise regularly and maintain good fitness regime and are healthy you well do fine on the trip. But a word of caution for people who suffer from high Blood Pressure and Cardiac problems we would request you to please submit a fitness certificate from your doctor and after which you are most welcome to join the trip.

11) Is there a limit to the number of participants?
Yes we would like to limit the group to max 30 people. So that we are able to divide them in to groups and have them shoot at different locations in the same area so that all participants do not end up with similar pictures.

12) Is LADAKH PHOTOGRAPHY, CYCLING & ROAD TRIP for professional photographer & cyclists alone?
The LADAKH PHOTOGRAPHY, CYCLING & ROAD TRIP is for anyone who has the love for nature, cycling and photography we believe in having a mix of people from different levels and genres of photography and different walks of life who share the passion and are likeminded so we all can learn from each others experiences.

13) What kind of camera should I carry, I only have movie camera?
Since photography and adventure are the essence behind this trip we would urge you to come with any sort of camera that you have form a Compact Digital Camera/SLR/DSLR all are fine as long as you are happy with what you capture. However, there will be few techniques discussed during the trip that can be only achieved through SLR & DSLR cameras but we believe knowledge gained as you graduate to a new level in photography. People with movie cameras can also participate.

14) How much distance would we be covering in these 15 days?
The trip would start from Delhi and culminate in Delhi the total distance that we would be covering is approx 3000kms.

15) What is a typical day at the LADAKH PHOTOGRAPHY, CYCLING & ROAD TRIP?
A typical day would start as early as 4-5am in the morning so that we can capture the landscapes and scenery in the soft morning light and may be a great sunrise in certain places. Through the day we would be trekking and travelling by car and stopping where ever you find a good spot to click. It will be our endeavor to reach our destination hotel/campsite for the day before sunset so you can make use of the evening light and hues to photograph. We would have evening session where we would urge you to share your work and all can enjoy your talent through a slide show every evening. We would try to end the day by 9 so you can retire to your rooms/camps as we need to recharge ourselves for the next day. For the cyclists, you are free to plan your ride with the trip leader and the rest remains the same.

16) What is the food menu?
The food menu would depend on our stay. At hotels you would be provided with Indian/English breakfast
Lunch would be packed or would be on way at a Dhaba. Dinner would be as per the hotel menu.

17) What happens to the luggage?
The Participants are requested to take care of their equipment and baggage the organizers will not be responsible for any breakage or theft and urge you to only carry bags that can be locked. We request each participant to carry not more than 2 bags one for Camera equipment and the other for clothes etc. The camera bag can be kept inside the car and the other baggage would be either carried on the roof or inside the vehicle you are travelling in.

18) What is the trip gets extended due to natural causes or borders/passes being sealed?
In the event of the trip being extended due to Natural causes or passes being sealed the cost of the extra day/s would be borne by the participants as these are events that cannot be foreseen and planned for hence the organizers would not be able to include this in the participation fee. We would request to hold the organizing committee responsible for such unforeseen circumstances and bear with us.

19) Where do we sleep?
This would depend on the course of the trip as accommodation will be mixed bag we would be using Hotels/ Country Inns and Campsites. We would be staying in Grade A Hotels in Manali and Leh. Our Campsites at Sarchu, pangong and Nubra would also provide A grade accommodation, in terms beds and Toilets which are attached. All accommodation is on twin Sharing.

20) Are the tents water proof incase it rains as we would be carrying photographic equipment?
The tents are waterproof and excellent arrangements are made to keep the moisture out.

21) What kind of toilets is available at campsite and is there a provision of hot water?
At the campsites we would provide you with dry pit lavatories and Bathing tents. Yes, hot water will be provided where ever possible.

22) Will there be a provision for charging camera/mobile/laptop at the campsite?
Yes we would be providing electrical points for the same at all campsites.

23) Can I bring my family along for the trip.
Yes you are most welcome to bring your parents/wife /children along however we would request you to bear in mind that it's a long trip via road and if you think your family members would be able to endure it you are most welcome.

26) Do we need to carry medicines/ first aid/Oxygen?
We would be carrying Oxygen cylinder(s) first aid and medicines or nausea/headaches/sprains etc. However, if you have been prescribed a certain medication or a medicine that you take on a daily basis we would request you to carry the same and enough to last you the entire trip as you may not find the same medicine during the journey.

27) I need to know more or I have a special request?
Please write to us at photosplendours@gmail.com or info.trailtales@gmail.com.

ESSENTIALS & OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS

Cancellation:

1. You can, at any moment before the commencement of the tour, cancel your registration. It is, however, important that we receive the information about your travel cancellation in writing.

2. Standard Cancellation Fees:

From 30 to 15 days before commencement of the tour 25%
From 14 to 05 days before commencement of the tour 50%
Below 5 days or not traveling 100%

3. You may, however, recommend a substitute, in case you are unable to join the tour.

1. First aid services will be provided by us, Photosplendours & Trail Tales outdoors will be not liable for expenses occurred on major illness or mishaps in between the tour.

2. It is important that a person with medical problems informs us well before departure. The Tour Leader has the right to disqualify anyone at any point of time during the trip if it is felt that the tour member is incapable of completing the trip safely. Refunds are not given under such circumstances.

3. If you cancel your reservation, your deposit will be returned as applicable in the section related to “Cancellation”.

4. In case a tour cannot be started or must be interrupted or ended for reasons outside the control of Photosplendours & Trail Tales, as in the case of but not limited to civil unrest, riots, strike, Government restrictions, earth quake, floods, or other forces of nature, this contract becomes invalid.

5. Photosplendours & Trail tales reserves the right to accept, decline or retain any tour member from any tour at any time, and to cancel any contract on grounds of a tour member not complying with local traffic laws or for the violation of any of our requirements for group travel.

DISCLAIMER
Trail Tales & Photosplendours. takes utmost care to ensure safety of its clients. However in the case of any unforeseen mishaps, Trail Tales Outdoors & Photosplendours. will not be liable for any injuries caused or for loss of life. All disputes rising due to the above are subject to the jurisdiction of the courts in New Delhi/Delhi only.

LADAKH - PHOTOGRAPHY - ROAD TRIP - CYCLING - 9th july - 22nd july, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Thu, 20 May 2010 16:53:00 +0000

THE DATES HAVE BEEN CHANGED TO ACCOMMODATE THE CONFLUENCE FESTIVAL ...AND UNAVAILABILITY OF FLIGHTS ...

MOUNTAIN BIKING - SPITI VALLEY - The Trans Himalayan Mountain Cycling

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Mon, 17 May 2010 11:43:00 +0000

“At last they entered a world within a world. A... valley of leagues where the high hills were fashioned of mere rubble and refuse from off the knees of the mountain. Surely the Gods live here… beaten down by the silence and the appalling sweep of dispersal of the cloud shadows after the rain. There is no place for men.”

A billion years ago, Spiti’s present location was the bed of Tethys Sea, separating Asia from the ancient continent of Gondwana. Gondwana joined Asia to form the Indian Subcontinent and in the process pushed up the intermediate ground of the Tethys Sea. Over time the sea dried up and the Himalaya sprang up, inching higher even now as the tectonic plate of the former landmass of Gondwana continues its movement under the Asian mainland.

Ranges of the Greater Himalaya enclose Spiti in a semi circular arc, separating it from Lahaul on the west, Kullu to the south and Kinnaur to the southwest. They also prevent the moisture laden monsoons from reaching the region, thus creating in Spiti, a bleak and arid landscape in common with Ladakh and Tibet, located beyond the Zaskar Mountains to the north and east. Lacking vegetative growth, the exposed terrain is a geologist’s paradise. It records every geological age from the Pre-Cambrian to the recent, in pristine formations.

Spiti valley is formed by its synonymous river which rises on the slopes of Kunzum la (4551mts) dividing the Lahaul and Spiti district, and ends at Khab where it meets the Sutlej. From NW to SE the valley extends for 140kms. Along its course the Spiti river traverses beds of clay and rocks, out of which rise peculiar rough monument like masses honeycombed all over with deep holes as if scooped out by a sculptor. It can be a soul journey for those affected by the “mane walls”, fluttering flags, prayer wheels, monks, all beneath an ageless blue sky, in a primordial landscape. We invite you to visit this beautiful land and soak yourself in its beauty, culture and people.

SPITI VALLEY FIXED DEPARTURES ... This June, July and August. In association with www.gio.in (Great Indian Outdoors)

WEBSITE COMING SOON ... www.trailtales.in

Contact further for details Dhananjay +91-97186-30467

PHOTOGRAPHY - CYCLING - ROAD TRIPPIN - LADAKH - 11th 22nd July 2010

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Sun, 16 May 2010 20:45:00 +0000

THE TRIP - LADAKH - Mountain Cycling, Roads & Photography ... The trip to Ladakh is on everybody's m...ind this year. We bring to you our version of the land, looking forward to share our experience with your curiosity and wide eyed excitement, as we set out on a road which is termed classic. Again as we always maintain, its your personal experience which counts, your expressions and your outlook. We look forward to connecting with you on this special trip, and share our tale with yours as it unfolds on the Ladakh trail. We will cycle past some of the highest passes, enjoy a walk along some pristine high altitude lakes, walk in silence till the chants in the monasteries lift us higher and possibly unleash a bit of adrenalin, rafting down the Indus. Some unexplored places have recently been opened up to us mere mortals, so we will dig a chance to be amongst the first to pay our respects and gaze away in awe. Making it an active trip, we will muse and try to find ours and yours creative expression through the lenses, and what else we would do? Remember "The important thing is to go"; quoting "Versace". Connect with us if you are keen to join us this july for this trip, and are seeking more information. Experience awaits once we get going. Email - info.trailtales@gmail.com, info@trailtales.in, Phone: +91-97186-30467. Or better, if in Delhi, drop by for a chat over a coffee at our office in Narayana. Cheers & Regards, Team Trail Tales (Dhananjay & Naysa)

THE TRANSHIMLAYAN PHOTOGRAPHY TRIP 17th - 28th June 2010

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Sun, 16 May 2010 19:54:00 +0000

Trail Tales would love to Thank Rishabh Sood of Cedar Hill Lodge, Charabara, Shimla, for sharing these photographs. Nags, our trips were always tripping, and their essence has and would always be drenched in the purity of having no barriers. I guess that's what our calling has been. Thank you.

Trail Tales dedicates this trip to "Gautam Kapoor". You have been an inspiration always. We are going to be visiting your favorite places, missing that wicked smile and eccentricity and insanity. You are missed.

For More information on this trip please don't hesitate to contact us at info.trailtales@gmail.com or connect to us on +91-97186-30467.

Happy Trails,

Team Trailtales (Dhananjay & Naysa)

Team Photosplendours (Rohan, Michael & Navneet)

WEBSITE COMING SOON. www.trailtales.in

MOTORCYCLING SACH PASS & LADAKH

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Sun, 16 May 2010 18:38:00 +0000

This is the ride of 2010 Summer. The Sach Pass in the Pangi Valley, is a motorist's delight, how much We yet have to find out, for most doing the rides, don't come this way. NO! It is the road less taken, and we delight in it, as we bring it to you this August from the 7th - 28th. Thereafter we head out to the Ladakh Highway from Keylong to Leh via few High passes, Baralacha - Lachalang La - Tanglang La. We travel to Nubra crossing Khardungla and come back to Leh via The Wari La. Then its time for Pangong Lake and Fotu La and Kargil, before we finally reach Srinagar. From there a ride on the plains till Jammu and Amritsar and we are back in Delhi on the 28th. This sure is a big ride.

For More information write to us info.trailtales@gmail.com or call +91-97186-30467

WEBSITE COMING SOON - www.trailtales.in

MOTORCYCLING

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Sun, 16 May 2010 17:58:00 +0000

Our Motorcycling Tours run Extensively through Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Ladakh in the summers. From October onwards there are rides in Rajasthan, Karnataka, Goa and Kerela. Our newest ride this year is a wildlife park ride across Ranthambore, Sariska, Bharatpur and Corbett, the recce for which we have just completed.

We recommend you bring your own bike for our tours, however don't despair, because we have our own fleet too of 12 enfield Bullets 350 CC's. For your tryst with the open roads and the highways you can always rely on us to hire them.

Keep a look out on the blog for this year's rides and write ups of our rides.

WEBSITE COMING SOON - www.trailtales.in

A PICTORIAL PREVIEW OF WHAT WE DO

noreply@blogger.com (TRAIL TALES OUTDOORS) — Sun, 16 May 2010 16:06:00 +0000

Though we like to maintain that every journey is an adventure and every adventure an experience, to make things a little easy we do at times like to differentiate between the offerings we make to our guests. Our geographical operational area includes Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal (March to October) and Rajasthan, Konkan Coast, Goa, Karnataka & Kerela (October to March) where we offer resonating travels which sparkle just as the trails which we explore. We encourage active explorations through uncharted interiors to let you wander freely, venturing into the great outdoors, enjoying close contact with native people and their customs, getting close up views of wildlife and feasting your eyes on the scenic vistas of the great mountain ranges, rivers, canyons, and deserts of our beautiful planet. We work hard to create adventures that have just the right mix of fun, learning, and challenge, that stimulate your curiosity about the world and leave you better for having ventured into it. Invariably you’ll come back a different person with a whole new perspective on life. We treat you like the rugged individual you are and also provide the benefits of group travel without the regimentation. We provide a more personal experience, and are always poised to take advantage of any serendipitous “happenings” that cross our path.

We’ll be delighted to supply you with all the information and assistance you may need in planning your trip. To start one of the best adventures of your life, join us.

Happy Trails,

Dhananjay & Naysa

Website coming up soon. www.trailtales.in