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Elephant Safari

Location : Uttar Pradesh, Kerala.
Best Time : Any Time of the year.

Elephant Safari in India
Elephant is associated with man since time immemorial. In the past, Elephant played a crucial role in the making and breaking of the history. Elephants were used by the Kings as a means of transportation and also to fight battles. Elephants are a common sight on our roads and temples and as a source of power still find use in forestry operations. Forests of India are well known for their elephant populations, where elephants roam freely with other animals like tiger, leopard , gaur, lion, monkeys and deer. They are an ideal option to explore some inaccessible places in the jungles. Elephant safari helps the visitor to travel through such difficult terrains where even jeeps can’t venture.


Elephant safari is the best and safest way to explore the remotest and densest areas of the forests. If you are more keen in combing denser areas of the forests and search for some fierce creatures, then Elephant Ride is the best option. Riding an elephant takes you back to the royal era, when only the Kings use to ride on these majestic creatures. Elephhant Safaris are equipped with a howdah, a large seat on which they and the visitors sit, and with an umbrella over the riders head. The elephant moves slowly and steadily, that’s why this type of safari is ideal in and around the wild regions, where riding the elephant can give you an easy access for viewing the unknown wildlife. More of all an elephant safari tour in the tropical wildlife sanctuaries of India gets you up, close and personal with these majestic animals.

During your ride, you can watch the wild elephants taking bath in the water bodies. If you are interested in photography, then you can easily take pictures of the wilds while riding and as a souvenir of the fantastic journey into the wilds.

Elephant Safari Destinations In India
Some place where Elephant Safaris are common are the forest areas of Uttar Pradesh and Kerala. Elephant Safari is also popular in the jungles of Assam in the northeast India.

Elephant Safaris in the Himalayan Regions
In the North and the North East India elephant safari is the best option to search the wilds in the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, particularly the ones that are located in the Himalayan region. Elephant is immensely versatile in negotiating the difficult Himalayan terrain that even a jeep can not traverse. Some of places in the Himalayan forest regions where you can go for an Elephant Ride are the national parks such as Corbett in Uttaranchal and Kaziranga in Assam.

Elephant Safari In Periyar Widlife Sanctuary
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the best elephant hub, any animal lover would love to find out. Elephant safari is a memorable experience in the Periyar. Periyar is, clearly, the safest elephant sanctuary in India, possibly in the world. Elephant, Wild Pig, Sambar and Guar are the four most popular animals with Periyar’s visitors. The smaller ones, however, are as interesting.

Some Other places where you can go for Elephant Safari in India are
Hardwar-Kotdwar-Kalagarh-Ramnagar-Kaladhungi-Haldwani, Uttaranchal.
Amber Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan

Essentials & Things to Carry
There are certain essentials you should carry along with yourself for elephant safari trip. The weather conditions can vary a lot, especially in a desert or tropical climate you require a good backup of plenty of portable water to avoid dehydration as well as sun screen, goggles, and a first aid kit.

The clothes that you are going to wear should also provide your skin breathing space, because of the hot climate you are tend to sweat. Some kind of head protection is essential too.

Horse Safari

Location: Rajasthan, Ladakh, Delhi, Deccan.
Best Time: October to April is the best for horseback riding in India as weather remains pleasant.

Horse Riding in India

Where are your horses, where the reins? How came ye? how had ye the power?
Rein was on nose and seat on back.
The whip is laid upon the flank. The heroes stretch their thighs apart, like women when the babe is born. 

Above lies clearly define the significance of horses in Indian history. The vehicle of the great rulers on the maiden tracks travelled miles for the archaic heros to conquer places. Horse riding is not a new concept in India, in fact it is as old as the kings who lived centuries ago. Then, it was a necessity but now it is an adventure activity. And for those who are on eco travel, it is eco-friendly mode of commutation. Moreover, unlike jeeps and cars, these four legged animal can take you to some of the inaccessible points as well.

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But horse riding is not as simple as it sounds. Peace and patience are much needed traits of a horse rider. Reasonably good experience and good control over horse is required to move across the varied terrains. These riding expeditions are undertaken for 4-6hrs at a stretch, with small breaks in between for rest and food. Only a well mannered ride and good riding fitness can ensure a perfect eco adventure so hire a horse for yourself and follow all the tips that we have mentioned while we wish you happy riding.

Horse Riding and Eco-Tourism

Horse riding is a fine example of eco-tourism for it will take you to some of the virgin and inaccessible spots without harming nature. Unlike Jeep safaris, it is pollution free and does not defaces the natural tracks. While on a eco-tour, it will not be appropriate to harm nature to enjoy a few fun full days. Keeping this thing in mind, if you make an eco-tour, it can be incredibly relaxing and joyous way of talking to the maiden winds and unfolding some of the mysterious places that nature has harbored in its heart for centuries. Following the off beaten tracks along the foothills of world’s largest mountain range, you can enjoy a perfect eco-adventure on a horses back.

Trotting Trails in India

India is a famous as a heritage destination but very few people have idea that it has come out as an adventure destination in which horse riding is a priemier activity. Covering all major tourist destinations in India are Horse Safari tours. You can travel along the folding hills and cross all major rivers and valleys on a horse’s back. These horse riding paths are not only enthralling but also an eco-friendly way of maundering around. There are few horse riding packages that we have mentioned here. You can also choose one which seems germane.

Riding Along the Golden Sands
Rajasthan is a land of deserts but interestingly is never deserted. When it comes to horsing,it beats away all other horsing destinations of India. The famous horse that is used for horse riding trails in the dry-hot areas of Rajasthan is Marwari which is a desert horse. The horses are charged by the breed you ride. Marwari and Kathairai are the two breeds found here while there are a few cross breeds. The horses here are slim and athletic. Specially, for the foreign visitors, English. style sandals are used.

Within Rajasthan, there are a number of horse trailing destinations. Different guided tours are available within Rajasthan to help visitors trot around. Pushkar is one such place. The annual fare organized here is like a Christmas carnival in India. So, if you are also attending to this carnival, there is another option to take a trot around Aravalli Hills. Covering most of Rajasthan, this ride will take you to some of the deepest core of the golden city.

Starting from Dundlod, the safari offers an interesting sight seeing halt at some of the oldest forts, Havelis or mansions of Rajasthan. Since this safari travels through the villages, you can sooth your eyes with the sceneries of village life and meet some of the local craftsmen. After visiting all the heritage sights of Rajasthan, this safari ends at Jaipur. The Marwari horse found here is best to trot around the golden sands of Rajasthan.

Riding along the Mystique Mountains
If you are penchant about the hills, then there are a few horse riding expeditions that can be undertaken at high altitudes of Himalayas. Romancing with the snow, the Himalayan Mountains offer bewitching views. The best part of horse riding tours here is the adventure you experience as the horse rides along the narrow pathways at some of the highest peaks. Moreover, you can make a stop at some of the magnificent surroundings. The spectacular landscapes of Ladakh look breathtaking on a horse’s back. There are few maiden tracks, unblemished spots and variegated valleys that enslave travellers with their majestic beauty.

There are other areas in the north which offer great horse riding opportunities for the travellers. Although most of the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that are found in Northern Region of India offer horse riding expeditions, you can find very good horsing tracks along the unbeaten paths across central India.

Deccan Riding Trails
Travelling in Deccan on horseback is the best possible way to see the countryside. Such a tour can take you through deserted forests, tribal lands, rolling hills, rural villages and forested foothills. Eco-tourism here is not restricted to mischievous mountains playing with the winds and deep valleys, its about all that is a part of our circumambient. The multifarious life that is found in India us worth exploring. Smallvillages with no electricity, unexpectedly you see a waterfall by your side and amazingly witching birds that company you for some time during your journey; can one ask for another reason for a trot! So, you can also trot around the green mountains and enchanting landscapes to have a perfect horse riding expedition in India.

Some Trotting Tips

There are a few horseback riding tips that we would recommend before you begin with your tour. You must always read your map thoroughly and make any necessary repairs, as regards the equipment, before you head out.

If you are new to riding, you must avoid riding alone.  Otherwise as well, if you have even a minor accident and you’re alone, what started out as a nice ride could end up being a serious or life threatening predicament. Ensure that you wear hard-soled boots with a small heal.

Avoid boots with deep arches or large treads, they can cause your feet to get caught in the stirrups. Head gear is a must. A cool pair of shades can provide protection against ultraviolet rays, dust and dirt. A long-sleeved shirt and long pants will give you a bit of protection from scrapes and sunburn and it helps to keep the bugs from biting you.

Things to Bring

Horse riding is undoubtedly an adventure tour but this adventure can turn into misery if you ignore some of the safety precautions. There are a few things that you must never forget to carry with you whole on a horse riding expedition. A safety helmet, good pair of boots, riding trousers, long sleeved shirts, waterproof warm jumper and water bottle are little things that you must carry.

Basic Facts
A good horse rider is one who knows his horses well. Different kinds of horse riding trails use different kinds of horses. The multifarious terrain of India houses a variety of this mammalian species. Different kinds of terrains need different kinds of horses. Choosing upon an appropriate horse in a particular horse riding destination is a much asset. Talk to local guide and he’ll help you choose a better horse for yourself.

Mountain Expeditions

Mountaineering Location : Himachal, Garhwal, Ladakh and Kumaon.
Best Time : Summer months from May to Mid-October are best time to suitable to climb mountains at high altitudes. Rainy months of July is not advisable for mountain climbing as there landslides during rains are common.

Some Tips : Examine your physical and mental health before taking an mountaineering expedition. Body resistance varies from person to person. Exercising is an asset. It can help you build stamina. And always go with experienced mountaineers.

Mountaineering in India

“Nine planets round the sun, only one does the sun embrace.  Upon this watered one, so much we take for granted; So let us sleep outside tonight, lay down in our nature’s arms, for here we can rest safely.  One sweet world around a star is spinning – One sweet world – And in her breath we will be swimming, and here we will rest in peace.”

It costs nothing than a fortune to be as close to our mother nature. Life seems dwindling in front of vast canvas that appends all the mysterious wonders of the world. There is so much to see while the time we have is so little. So, if you are penchant about this small meeting with mother nature, brace yourself for an unforgettable journey of the majestic mountains of India.

Mountaineering Destinations

Himachal Pradesh
The foothills of Himalayas are the core of mountaineering activities in India. The area around Manali, Beas Kund and Hunuman Tibba are some of the popular mountaineering destinations in Himachal Pradesh. If you are a beginner then Tibba is a perfect mountaineering spot. The Chandra Bhaga ranges, Pir Panjal and Dhaulandhar ranges are the focal points of such an adventurous expedition.

Jammu and Kashmir
Num, Kun and Zanskar ranges are choicest summits that are loved mountaineers. The snow covered mountains not only offer great adventure but bewitch mountaineers with the variegated surroundings that adorn Kashmir. Climbing a mountains here is like climbing up the heaven. The high peaks here will not only test your stamina but technical skills as well. Ladakh, here, is the most enthralling mountaineering destination with a number of high peaks testing mountaineers.

Garhwal
Garhwal draws an large number of trekkers in India. Either love for nature or passion for adventure; Garhwal is a perfect mountaineering spot. The snow covered mountain peaks of Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Kamet, Bandarpoonch, and other peaks rising 1000 Mts. into the blue distant sky of the challenges to the mountaineers to surmount and prevail over.

Some Precautions for Mountaineers

Mountaineering can be risky if you miss on even a very minute precaution. You must consult a doctor to determine your physical stamina and body resistance. All medicines that you mayu require while climbing should always be there with you. Dehydration is a common problem so you must not forget to carry a bottle of water with you. Moving in groups is always advisable as you can be in touch with your friends, if need some help. Carraying your identity card with yourself can really help. You may leave some of your basic information with the organizers as well.

Permits and Licenses

For Foreign Nationals
If you are a foreign national, you may need permits to undertake mountain climbing activity in India. It is a punishable offense to climb a mountain without prior permission. You need to register yourself with the regular authorities to avoid legal hassles. Send your application with all documents at least three months in advance to Indian Mountaineering Foundation. You have to specifically inform about the destination, path, group, group leader, number of days and past experience in mountain climbing.

As you reach India, you may inquire from the from police or army headquarter about the expedition. They can also help you hire porters and liaison officer to assist you throughout your trip. You are expected to ensure yourself to cover for accident risks and ground/helicopter search and rescue. All mountaineers are expected to have X Mountaineering Visa endorsed on their visa by Indian Embassy.

For Indian Nationals
Applications for mountaineering expedition should be sent to state government or military base, 6 months in advance. Trekking in restricted areas of Jammu and Kashmir should be undertaken only after a clearance from military. Medical examination is a must. Two weeks prior to the expedition, you must inform the commissioner of police or defense base of a particular place; about your trip. If any photographs are taken, they must be first cleared from military. Insurance against all risks is necessary with a credit letter for 35,000 and above if a helicopter search is required.

Things to Carry

There are a number of equipments that you may require while on a mountaineering expedition. Ropes, crampon (ice-climbing spikes), gaiter, head lamp, snow goggles, chock (a metal device inserted into rock as anchor; also, nut), butane gas, twin sling, shoes, carabiners (oblong metal rings), harness seat, ice axe, ascender, descender (a device used for rappelling), hammer, tent, sleeping pad, rucksack, sleeping bag, jummar (device with handles and is used in pairs to ascend a rope), pulley, and helmet are the essentials.

Although most of these equipments can be hired or purchased from Indian Mountaineering Foundation in Delhi or from the departments of tourism offices of state governments but it is the responsibility of the adventure tour operator, if you have hired one.