Dear Friends,
TAG INDIA and its members wish you and your family a very happy 2010 :-)
We thank all the members who joined us for the many adventurous & memorable trips in 2009 and we hope to do more of such trips in 2010.
2009 was very exciting indeed with many adventure trips that took us to the southern most part of India (Kerala) and to the remotest borders of North India (Himalayas)! We learnt some new skills with our scuba diving & snorkeling trip, white water rafting events, rock climbing and river crossing camps! We visited some exotic places like the Mullaingiri caves, Himalayan glaciers, magnetic hill, ipod death zone, Dubare elephant camp, Kalvarbetta clouds and many more. We had great fun organizing leadership building events, team outbounds, kids camp and survival camps. To sum it up, 2009 was indeed a very memorable year and it went really fast! We are now at the doorstep of 2010 and we certainly hope that it will be a fun year too.
So here is a wish to you from all of us!
May the new year bring you lots of new adventures, excitement and fond memories
May we spend more time with nature in conservation and restoration activities and revitalize the planet with our efforts
May we discover new places, make new friends and make planet earth a friendlier place
See you in 2010!
Best Wishes
TAG INDIA TEAM
To see photos of all our trips please visit: www.tagindia.net or http://picasaweb.google.com/tagindiateam
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
1 JAN to 3 JAN 2010 - NEW YEAR 2010 IN COORG
NEW YEAR 2010 IN COORG
Owing to popular demand, we are leaving from Bangalore at 4:30 AM from Devegowda Petrol Bunk.
Schedule:
1-Jan-2010, Friday:
Leave Bangalore from a common point at 5:00 am;
have breakfast on the way;
travel via Nagarhole National Park in the hope to meet a Tiger;
reach the estate by before Lunch;
Activities: Nature walk in coffee plantation, Waterfall, cooking & camping, games, night walk
2-Jan-2010: Saturday:
Jungle Trek, Picnic Lunch, visit Jungle Gym, Cooking & Campfire, Games, Star gazing
3-Jan-2010: Sunday:
Brunch;
Leave for Bangalore via Kushal Nagar & Dubaare;
Lunch at Dubaare, still water rafting & swimming;
Visit the Golden Temple;
Reach Bangalore before dinner;
The cost per head for the 3 day event is Rs 2950/-
Night Camping fee, camping gear including tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, 2 Breakfast, 2 Lunch, 2 Dinner, (veg meals), As many Tea, Transport, Guide Fee, Accommodation rent, Campfire (if weather permits), basic medical kit, cooking equipment
Does not include any personal expenditure, non vegetarian meals, lunch & dinner on the way to the estate and back, activity fee at Jungle Gym & Dubare, Local attraction entrance fees.
Bank Account Details:
Axis Bank (Branch Banashankari)
Account Name: TAG India
Account Number: 102010200008617
Things to carry:
Books (optional), Umbrella, Torch & extra batteries, Floaters, Warm clothes for the cold nights, Swim wear, Cap, Min 2 ltrs of Water & bottles, personal snacks & munches, a small bag for one day trek, Camera, Chargers,
Rules:
1. All participants should have filled up the membership form by using the join us link on www.tagindia.net
2. In case of trekking, every group will have a Leader and a trailer - Decision taken by them would be the FINAL. Suggestions from trekkers are welcome but expecting maximum co-operation to Leaders. Trekking schedule/plan is designed without knowledge of Seasonal situation, Wildlife activity and anything which could go wrong at that time. Expecting high level of patience with respect to change in schedule/plan.
3. TAG INDIA is a media for adventure/nature enthusiasts in Bangalore to come together and participate in eco-friendly adventure activities. TAG INDIA , TAG INDIA TEAM, Trek Leaders, and other TAG INDIA members are NOT responsible for loss of belongings or life of any participant. Please be very serious about this note. Take care of your own belongings and respect your life.
4. Littering & shouting in the wilderness is prohibited. Night stay is arranged in estate property. We will be having very simple and basic facilities. Luxury not included.
6. Consumption of alcohol is not allowed in any of the TAG INDIA TREKS.
7. Do not tease any living being in forest - from small plant, worm to elephant.
8. Making your trip a great experience is in your hand. Help yourself to follow the guidelines and enjoy the fun and adventure :-)
9. After the announcement of final list, anyone dropping out has to bear the cost of Transportation & Food. (Transport & Food already booked/ordered)
Things NOT to carry:
Liquor, narcotic drugs & ego
Regards,
TAG INDIA team
W: www.tagindia.net
M: +91-9886162404
E: info@tagindia.net
B: tagindia.blogspot.com
"Shoot only pictures; Capture only memories; Leave only Footprints"
Monday, November 2, 2009
Orissa Dairies: Chandikhole, Panikoli, Ghatagaon, Keonjhar by NALIN AGARWAL
Location: Chandikhole, Panikoli, Ghatagaon, Keonjhar
Nearest Towns: Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Sambhalpur
Distances: Chandikhole 95Kms, Ghatagaon 150kms, Keonjhar 210kms from Bhubaneswar
Getting there: From Bhubaneswar via Cuttack highway NH5. Take a turn left into Panikoli under the flyover to reach the jajpur main road. State highway 215 from here would lead to Ghatagaon, Keonjhar falls straight ahead of the same.
Trip Length: 5 Hrs one way
Best Time to Visit: September to February
Worst Time to Visit: Peak Summer
Permission: None Required
Things to carry: A local map of the roads and places, bottles of water, plenty of filling snacks, extra memory cards.
Things to keep in mind before traveling:
• Since your vehicle would have to endure some good stress, make sure it is properly serviced.
Make sure you are carrying your toolkit and a torch.
• You can’t rely on your mobile phone for help (no network in most places). So keep someone informed about your whereabouts and move in a group with not much distance between.
• Keep a cool head, keep buffer in your travel time, plan in advance for the places to visit and make a milkman route for the same.
We had no luxuries of knowing this before we started, because it was all planned at the last moment.
Rating: 3.5/5
Fact File:
Mahavinayak temple is a major centre of pilgrimage and one of the oldest Ganesha temples in Orissa. In Orissa there are five different Kshetras or religious centers celebrated for these Pancha Devata(Five God) viz: Vinayaka or Ganesh Kshetra at Mahavinayak hills in the district of Jajpur, Vishnu or Sankha (the attributes in the hands of Lord Vishnu) Kshetra at Puri, Shiva or Ekamra Kshetra Bhubaneswar, Durga or Viraja Kshetra at Jajpur or Yajanapur. Mahavinayak enshrines the five god heads in one Lingam. The speciality of Mahavinayak temple is that the Pancha Devata: Shiva, Vishnu, Durga, Sun and Ganapati, are worshipped as a single deity in a single sanctum sanctorum. In no other Hindu temples such tradition of worship is present. It is situated 40 Km north to Cuttack besides NH5 and 4 Km away from the NH towards west via Sukinda Parad
ip expressway in Chandikhole. *Source: Wikipedia
Maa Tarini Temple, Ghatagaon is one of the most sacred places of Orissa. One legend with a delightful association with the rathyatra concerns King Purushottam Dev(15th Century). (More details at www.maatarini.com). The temple is highly revered and the goddess there is believed be highly powerful. Coconuts are the offering here. In fact, such is the faith in the goddess that if anyone in the state waves a coconut wrapped in a red cloth on a highway the next bus would surely stop to pick it up and take it to the temple. Even if the bus is on a different route, the driver ensures that the coconuts are dropped in the collection box on the way or hand it over to another bus headed for Ghatagaon. The drivers say and from their experience, the people who have failed in this met with several difficulties on their journeys. During festival seasons, as many as 100,000 coconuts reach the temple everyday. This flawless coconut courier service based on the faith has made Maa Tarini an extremely popular deity in Orissa. It has even figured in the news in BBC Asia.
Keonjhar district is a green land of panoramic beauties and a store house of mineral wealth. It offers a variety of attractions to the tourists which includes religious shrines, fresco painting, waterfalls and above all the natural sceneries. The terraced villages buzzing with the sweet melodies of the birds take the visitors to a dream land. The simplicity of the tribal folk mixed with the gaiety
of their festivals can keep the visitors amused. Places to visit here are:-
Sitabinji: It is situated on river Sita. The spot has gained prominence as a place having ancient fresco paintings on a rock shelter called Ravan Chhaya which is like a half opened umbrella. The paintings depict a royal procession. It is 30 km from keonjhar (23 km on the Jajpur-Keonjhar road upto Katrabeda and 7 km from there)
Badaghagara: It is about 9 Km from Keonjhar on NH6 towards Sambhalpur. It is yet another small (200ft high) but exciting waterfall.
Sanghagara: It is 6 Km from Keonjhar on NH-6 towards Sambhalpur. It is a small (100ft. high) and a beautiful waterfall.
Keonjhargarh: It is the district headquarters and is famous for Vishnu temple. On the outskirts are the shrines of Sidha Jagannath, Sidhakali and Panchabati amidst picturesque settings.
Deogaon (Kosaleswar): On the river Kusei near Anandapur., the temple of Kosaleswar built in Circa 900 AD is a famous centre of pilgrimage. Once upon a time it was a flourishing seat of Budhism.
Gonasika: Situated at a distance of 45 Km from Keonjhar, Gonasika hill is the source of the river Baitarani.
Murgamahdev: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated on picturesque Thakruani hil. It is situated in Champua subdivision and is 65 Km away from Keonjhar.
The Journey:
Day 1:
Bitten by the travel bug, the weekend of 10th Oct we planned a short trip to Ratnagiri, a series of hills with remains of Buddhist monasteries from the 10th centuries. This was planned by a friend of mine who had recently gained a lot of enthusiasm considering the perfect weather and the number of long weekends that were headed up for us. Mind it, long weekend for us means a consecutive day to a Sunday even though we’re all in IT. Due to the inhuman project requirements, Saturdays are also working for us….sad but true.
Anyways, we made a rough plan, about 110Kms one way, 85 of which on a straight highway NH5, total travel time was estimated to be 2 hrs one way. As we reached office as the common point for meeting up, some more colleagues added up to in the caravan on the spot. The count was now 7 and with 4 bikes it seemed like a perfect daylong trip. A brief about the team members,
Prahlad- The planner for the trip, a flamboyant SAP consultant from Bangalore who has found better REASONS for his stay in a place like Bhubaneswar as well *wink wink*
Sudhir- A fraud Telugu (has very few distinguished Telugu qualities) who is more than happy to be on any trip, condition being booze and fag should readily be available.
Sandip- An easy going guy from Mumbai who would joke with a straight face and you would not even realize when he is taking you for a long ride :).
Suneel- The bachelor for the week, since his wife was back home, he was more than eager to relive his college days.
Vivek- The most quiet of the species in the office. You would always catch him with his eyes dug into the computer screen and hands on keyboard fiddling around with ABAP codes.
Suresh- A first timer to our group usually stays to himself, another quiet fellow.
And
Yours truly- Well I can go about myself for pages altogether, but I’d leave the job to you to figure me out.
Due to some inherent tendencies of delays by few people (I hope they’re reading this :))…we finally started at 11.45am (about 90 mins post the scheduled time). By now the sun was up high glaring down upon us bad. Our first destination was a place named as Chandikhole (92kms from Bhubaneswar on NH5). The ride till Chandikhole was defined by an awesome highway, and an amazingly smooth ride. Reaching the town crossing (Chandikhole Chaka), 30-35Kms into the road on the right turn was Ratnagiri and 5-7 kms into the left were much revered temples of Chandi and Maha Vinayaka.
We took left to visit the temples first which were closer. Unfortunately, by the time we reached the Chandi temple (1300hrs), it was closed and was expected to open only by 4pm. Even Gods deserve a power nap in the afternoon :)) hence we headed further for the Maha Vinayaka temple dreading if it might be closed as well. It was about another 3-4 Kms further ahead, and the entrance was categorically marked with statues of lion over an elephant on both its sides which is commonplace in Orissa. After a small flight of steps was the temple, which to our dismay was also closed but thankfully only for sometime. To make the most of the time we had, we started for the Devi temple on the hilltop the steps for which started from the rear of the temple. The high and steep steps made most of the junta panting for breath, all thanks to their sedentary lifestyles. I in the meanwhile got some good opportunity to try my hands on some macro photography sighting variety of spiders and butterflies on the way up. It was a beautiful view of the town from the hilltop. That’s where we offered our prayers and rested for a while.
By the time we reached back, the Maha Vinayaka temple was already open. It was a small but beautiful temple with three entrances to it. Within there was the much known and revered lingam with the five god heads. With a narrow passage to the idol, and many devotees thronging the place, it was difficult to get a snap of the same, so I chose to keep the cam inside the bag, get inside and take the blessings at least.
By this time everyone’s stomachs were twisting and turning from inside since we had a very very small snack at the start and the hunger was accentuated by the hill climbing up drill we just underwent. We spotted a hotel “Hotel Midtown” right at the Chandikhole crossing. Thankfully it was still open and serving, since most of the places shut down in afternoon usually after 2.30. The food was ordered and the round table discussions started about the rest of the trip. Considering that the next day was also off, we were contemplating extending our travel, but to where and how was the question.
Keonjhar came out as the picked destination after some quick phone calls to our local colleagues at office. However we were warned of the extremely bad roads and the trucks plying on the same if we happen to get late.
At that moment, Ratnagiri was dropped as the destination since it was already 4pm and we had to cover another 120 odd kms out of which most part of the road was in a bad shape with no lights. Our inherent delays followed us everywhere, this time because we missed a turn from the highway by 20kms and had to come all the way back. We were supposed to take a left from the highway at Panikholi. We still had over 90 kms to reach Keonjhar and by now it was getting dark. Single road with multiple SPEEDBREAKERS (they were meant to break more than just speeds) and potholes marked our ride till we realized we had missed a turn once again, thankfully only by 4kms this time. Once we got the turn, we made sure that we keep asking people for directions not to go off track again. The road now had no lights except coming from the vehicles, and it was almost 6.30. Our next miles
tone was to reach Ghatagaon, Maa Tarini Temple which was about 45kms from here. Sudden huge potholes on the road kept us on an alert all through the ride. The last phase of 20-25kms towards Ghatagaon was an awesome road through a dense jungle, wherein if you shut off your headlights, you would not be able to see your own hands even. Scary but splendid it was. It was getting a bit cold as well which was hurting the already aching backs from those huge speed bumps. We finally reached Maa Tarini Temple at 8pm. I would say that we were very lucky to have reached there just in time before the temple closes. The front gate was already latched, but a local suggested trying the side door which might be open, and it was. We were the last group of visitors to enter after which they shut that door. The temple was beautiful from inside with a circular boundary. In the centre was the idol of Maa Tarini. The idol with two big eyes, with a mark in centre for nose, completely painted in red emanated power and divinity. I so much wanted to have a shot of the scene there but unfortunately taking pics was not allowed inside. Stepping out after the short puja and the yumm prasad we were wondering how much more of roads we had to cover till we finally got a bed to rest our butts on.
We had absolutely no idea that the worst was still to come. The next 45-50Kms were only potholes with roads showing up sometimes in between. To worsen the situation, we had a caravan of trucks (unfortunately the truck movement had started) on the road. Dust was all around, all over, and inside our systems as well. We were looking like a
s if just came out from a dust mine by the time we reached Keonjhar.
It was about 10 by the time we reached. Now we desperately needed some rest, a warm bath and cozy beds. Looking around we came across “Hotel Labanaya” towards our right on the main road itself. On checking out the inside, we could not rate it worthy to spend a night, not value for money by the amount they were charging. Looking out further, on the way we came across another hotel “Hotel Shreekrishna”. It had decent rooms, cheap, and the best part, had hot water…we went no further and simply checked in there. We ordered food. There in the hotel we were eating papads, egg bhurji, munching on the baadam (groundnut is called badam here), and discussing how crazy we are and what a crazy journey this has been so far. It was 1.30 when everyone hit the sack and I did doubt if anyone would be ready to start anything before 10 in the morning.
Day 2:
A pleasant countryside morning it was and Suneel (the enthusiastic one) came banging each door, pulling each one’s sheets, punching…trying to wake up the sleeping logs, only to give a start. But all efforts in vain, we eventually started at about 11.
Taking directions from the hotel guys and the places to see we headed for the 1st in our list “Sanaghagra” and “Badaghagra” falls. Just about 3-4 kms from our place we spotted a “Panthnivas” on the right. It could have been a very good stay for us in case we knew about it in advance. Nonetheless we moved on.
It was surprising that very few people were able to give us the correct directions for the two places and we went off road a couple of times before we were able to reach the smaller of the two “Sanaghagra” falls. The place had been decently maintained. One had to walk for about 500mtrs from the parking area to reach the falls. It was a series of small but beautiful waterfalls. Unfortunately it did not look very inviting for a dip so most of us kept to the sides getting wet and playing around.
On the way back to our bikes, there was a villager selling blocks of wood claiming to be sandal at 40 bucks each. I was skeptical about the authenticity of the same since a block of sandalwood of that size costs around 800 bucks back in Cauvery, Bangalore. In fact the doubt was strengthened when he agreed to give it for 15 bucks a piece. Only to realize at the end of the journey that we had been duped :), it was just a block of wood dipped in scented water, did not expect this from a villager.
Post “sanghagra” we headed for “badaghagra”. Trying to figure out the way, we realized that it was a narrow stony road uphill which lead to the Ghagra river reservoir and the falls. We could see no one on the way and nowhere near and around as well. Such was the situation that at one point we divided into two groups at a V junction and planned come back after exactly 10 mins, since there was no network in any one’s mobile (Something Vodafone should look at. they did not follow me here). Incidentally both the ways went to different sides of the water fall. We reached the base of the waterfall where there was some solar power stat
ion which looked as if it was an abandoned building. While the other group reached the reservoir. Shouts and yells brought both the groups together at the huge reservoir. It was a beautiful sight with only water at one end of the horizon and lush green jungle on the other end.
Considering it was 2pm already and we were way behind our schedule we headed for the other places on our list. Still clueless as to what to visit, how to visit, where to go, we took the advice of some local people as to what could be completed within the small amount of time that we had. A unanimous answer was Gonasika, and the origin of river baithrani. Asking directions was easy, but getting the right direction was a hell of a task. From the main road near Sanghagra, the distance was estimated to be about 25-30kms.
Once off the highway towards Sambhalpur, it was a dreamlike stretch with a narrow but smooth single road with tall trees on both sides. It was a winding road with steep ups and downs…more of climbs since we were on our way towards the hill top.
Even though the ride was smooth but the load of pillion and the steep climb made our mean machines to groan in agony. And that’s when it happened, one of them broke down. Chain went loose. We were like, in middle of nowhere, no idea how far we were from civilization, how much time it would take to reach there and million such thoughts started brewing in our heads. That’s when a god sent angel came (a local) who though was going the other way, obliged us by taking us to the village mechanic. The mechanic’s shop was so inconspicuous, that we could have not possibly figured it out on our own. The bike was fixed and we were ready to start again all thanks to that angel.
In this village it was a temple ahead of which was the river origin. Prayers were offered at the temple, Prasad taken and off we were towards the hilltop. Road now was the narrowest, and there was a point where we had to finally park our bikes to walk and climb the rest of the distance. After walking fo
r a while, there was another series of steps painted green by the moss covering them and small streams of water gushing by. At the end of the steps was a very small temple. Inside was an idol of a goddess and a rock looking like head of a cow at her feet. On close observation we saw the stream of water actually pouring out of the nostrils of that cow head shaped rock. This, this was the origin of the baitarini river. Such an interesting thing it is, that most of the rivers start from small springs or streams like this and grow huge before flowing into the sea. It was about 4.30 and slightly getting dark, so with more prayers, more offerings and some snaps we wrapped up the stay there.
Next task was to reach back to our hotel. Ride downhill was much easier and smoother since we knew the roads well now. Our only aim was to be able 2 hit the state highway before the trucks and dumpers did. But as luck would have had it, on the way back Sunil’s bike gave in again. This time it was a flat tyre. Since we were moving in sets of two bikes, he had one company. Since there was no network, there was no possibility of messaging to us as we had moved ahead.
Interestingly Vivek volunteered to get some help, waved his thumb, got a lift to nowhere (mind it he does not understand hindi, forget Oriya). The situation now, one bike reached the hotel, one stopped en route ahead since a call connected to them from a local PCO, two bikes at the puncture shop, and a lost guy with no network.
It was a painful ordeal of patience and wait for about an hour before everyone was able to get in touch with each other. Maybe the prayers came for our help. Else otherwise it could have easily been a big search operation since it was already pretty dark.
Everyone took a breather getting back together at the hotel and that’s when the ragging session of the lost soul began. The fun got interrupted by the tea and plates full of hot aloo pakoras which in no time were gobbled up. These were the first elements of food that got into our system other than biscuits and water. Refueled we were back on the road by 7. By now it was already late and we had to face the ordeal of the following the trucks with the whirlwind of dust behind them.
This time we were not lucky to be at the Ma Tarini temple on time, way late by half hour. By now we knew that there was no chance we could reach before 12, but the need of the hour was food, which we desperately longed for. The hope of getting a good dhabha on the highway fuelled us to cover the next 50kms of the ride. The small eating joints looked too tempting on the way, but we held back to reach the highway, even though we were not sure of what we would possibly get there.
And then came the highway, and a series of small and big dhabhas. Had no more patience, simply barged into one, ordered a humongous meal and gulped Masala coke while we waited for the feast to arrive. Not a great meal, but then who cares when you’re hungry. Gluttony had taken over the taste buds. Now that everyone was full getting up from those chairs now seemed to take like an eternity. It was 12.30 by now, and we had another 100kms to reach Bhubaneswar. But now it was a smooth 6 lane national highway ahead of us, with barely any traffic. Stomachs full to hearts desire we were ready to zoom back to our comfortable homes.
Zipping at comfortable speeds of 80-90, in no time we were back in Bhubaneswar sitting at the Rasulgarh circle for everyone to catch up. There we were, all of us sitting and laughing at the moments from the trip. Finally at 2.30 in the night we bid each other byes as we parted ways for our homes.
Lying on my bed, after such an eventful trip, I was wondering how ill cope with the uneventful days in office ahead. That’s when I stretched, shrugged the thought out of my head, turned on my side and slipped into sweet slumber. Goodnight!
Places of Stay in Keonjhar:
Panthanivas Keonjhar, At/Po. Judia, Keonjhar - 758 002,
Tel. 06766 - 253603, Mob. 9238211629
Hotel Shreekrishna, NH6 Near Madhapur
09437826311, (06766)256999, 250111
Other hotels in the area are
Hotel Ajanta 06766-253372, Hotel Plaza 06766-255246, Labanya Lodge 06766-255507, Keonjhar Lodge 06766-255794 , Gayatree guest house 06766-255668, Hotel Ankita, Shreekshetra Hotel
More pics from the trip can be found at Picasa Album
--Nalin Agarwal
Nearest Towns: Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Sambhalpur
Distances: Chandikhole 95Kms, Ghatagaon 150kms, Keonjhar 210kms from Bhubaneswar
Getting there: From Bhubaneswar via Cuttack highway NH5. Take a turn left into Panikoli under the flyover to reach the jajpur main road. State highway 215 from here would lead to Ghatagaon, Keonjhar falls straight ahead of the same.
Trip Length: 5 Hrs one way
Best Time to Visit: September to February
Worst Time to Visit: Peak Summer
Permission: None Required
Things to carry: A local map of the roads and places, bottles of water, plenty of filling snacks, extra memory cards.
Things to keep in mind before traveling:
• Since your vehicle would have to endure some good stress, make sure it is properly serviced.
Make sure you are carrying your toolkit and a torch.• You can’t rely on your mobile phone for help (no network in most places). So keep someone informed about your whereabouts and move in a group with not much distance between.
• Keep a cool head, keep buffer in your travel time, plan in advance for the places to visit and make a milkman route for the same.
We had no luxuries of knowing this before we started, because it was all planned at the last moment.
Rating: 3.5/5
Fact File:
Mahavinayak temple is a major centre of pilgrimage and one of the oldest Ganesha temples in Orissa. In Orissa there are five different Kshetras or religious centers celebrated for these Pancha Devata(Five God) viz: Vinayaka or Ganesh Kshetra at Mahavinayak hills in the district of Jajpur, Vishnu or Sankha (the attributes in the hands of Lord Vishnu) Kshetra at Puri, Shiva or Ekamra Kshetra Bhubaneswar, Durga or Viraja Kshetra at Jajpur or Yajanapur. Mahavinayak enshrines the five god heads in one Lingam. The speciality of Mahavinayak temple is that the Pancha Devata: Shiva, Vishnu, Durga, Sun and Ganapati, are worshipped as a single deity in a single sanctum sanctorum. In no other Hindu temples such tradition of worship is present. It is situated 40 Km north to Cuttack besides NH5 and 4 Km away from the NH towards west via Sukinda Parad
ip expressway in Chandikhole. *Source: WikipediaMaa Tarini Temple, Ghatagaon is one of the most sacred places of Orissa. One legend with a delightful association with the rathyatra concerns King Purushottam Dev(15th Century). (More details at www.maatarini.com). The temple is highly revered and the goddess there is believed be highly powerful. Coconuts are the offering here. In fact, such is the faith in the goddess that if anyone in the state waves a coconut wrapped in a red cloth on a highway the next bus would surely stop to pick it up and take it to the temple. Even if the bus is on a different route, the driver ensures that the coconuts are dropped in the collection box on the way or hand it over to another bus headed for Ghatagaon. The drivers say and from their experience, the people who have failed in this met with several difficulties on their journeys. During festival seasons, as many as 100,000 coconuts reach the temple everyday. This flawless coconut courier service based on the faith has made Maa Tarini an extremely popular deity in Orissa. It has even figured in the news in BBC Asia.
Keonjhar district is a green land of panoramic beauties and a store house of mineral wealth. It offers a variety of attractions to the tourists which includes religious shrines, fresco painting, waterfalls and above all the natural sceneries. The terraced villages buzzing with the sweet melodies of the birds take the visitors to a dream land. The simplicity of the tribal folk mixed with the gaiety
of their festivals can keep the visitors amused. Places to visit here are:-Sitabinji: It is situated on river Sita. The spot has gained prominence as a place having ancient fresco paintings on a rock shelter called Ravan Chhaya which is like a half opened umbrella. The paintings depict a royal procession. It is 30 km from keonjhar (23 km on the Jajpur-Keonjhar road upto Katrabeda and 7 km from there)
Badaghagara: It is about 9 Km from Keonjhar on NH6 towards Sambhalpur. It is yet another small (200ft high) but exciting waterfall.
Sanghagara: It is 6 Km from Keonjhar on NH-6 towards Sambhalpur. It is a small (100ft. high) and a beautiful waterfall.
Keonjhargarh: It is the district headquarters and is famous for Vishnu temple. On the outskirts are the shrines of Sidha Jagannath, Sidhakali and Panchabati amidst picturesque settings.
Deogaon (Kosaleswar): On the river Kusei near Anandapur., the temple of Kosaleswar built in Circa 900 AD is a famous centre of pilgrimage. Once upon a time it was a flourishing seat of Budhism.
Gonasika: Situated at a distance of 45 Km from Keonjhar, Gonasika hill is the source of the river Baitarani.
Murgamahdev: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated on picturesque Thakruani hil. It is situated in Champua subdivision and is 65 Km away from Keonjhar.
The Journey:
Day 1:
Bitten by the travel bug, the weekend of 10th Oct we planned a short trip to Ratnagiri, a series of hills with remains of Buddhist monasteries from the 10th centuries. This was planned by a friend of mine who had recently gained a lot of enthusiasm considering the perfect weather and the number of long weekends that were headed up for us. Mind it, long weekend for us means a consecutive day to a Sunday even though we’re all in IT. Due to the inhuman project requirements, Saturdays are also working for us….sad but true.
Anyways, we made a rough plan, about 110Kms one way, 85 of which on a straight highway NH5, total travel time was estimated to be 2 hrs one way. As we reached office as the common point for meeting up, some more colleagues added up to in the caravan on the spot. The count was now 7 and with 4 bikes it seemed like a perfect daylong trip. A brief about the team members,
Prahlad- The planner for the trip, a flamboyant SAP consultant from Bangalore who has found better REASONS for his stay in a place like Bhubaneswar as well *wink wink*
Sudhir- A fraud Telugu (has very few distinguished Telugu qualities) who is more than happy to be on any trip, condition being booze and fag should readily be available.
Sandip- An easy going guy from Mumbai who would joke with a straight face and you would not even realize when he is taking you for a long ride :).
Suneel- The bachelor for the week, since his wife was back home, he was more than eager to relive his college days.
Vivek- The most quiet of the species in the office. You would always catch him with his eyes dug into the computer screen and hands on keyboard fiddling around with ABAP codes.
Suresh- A first timer to our group usually stays to himself, another quiet fellow.
And
Yours truly- Well I can go about myself for pages altogether, but I’d leave the job to you to figure me out.
Due to some inherent tendencies of delays by few people (I hope they’re reading this :))…we finally started at 11.45am (about 90 mins post the scheduled time). By now the sun was up high glaring down upon us bad. Our first destination was a place named as Chandikhole (92kms from Bhubaneswar on NH5). The ride till Chandikhole was defined by an awesome highway, and an amazingly smooth ride. Reaching the town crossing (Chandikhole Chaka), 30-35Kms into the road on the right turn was Ratnagiri and 5-7 kms into the left were much revered temples of Chandi and Maha Vinayaka.
We took left to visit the temples first which were closer. Unfortunately, by the time we reached the Chandi temple (1300hrs), it was closed and was expected to open only by 4pm. Even Gods deserve a power nap in the afternoon :)) hence we headed further for the Maha Vinayaka temple dreading if it might be closed as well. It was about another 3-4 Kms further ahead, and the entrance was categorically marked with statues of lion over an elephant on both its sides which is commonplace in Orissa. After a small flight of steps was the temple, which to our dismay was also closed but thankfully only for sometime. To make the most of the time we had, we started for the Devi temple on the hilltop the steps for which started from the rear of the temple. The high and steep steps made most of the junta panting for breath, all thanks to their sedentary lifestyles. I in the meanwhile got some good opportunity to try my hands on some macro photography sighting variety of spiders and butterflies on the way up. It was a beautiful view of the town from the hilltop. That’s where we offered our prayers and rested for a while.
By the time we reached back, the Maha Vinayaka temple was already open. It was a small but beautiful temple with three entrances to it. Within there was the much known and revered lingam with the five god heads. With a narrow passage to the idol, and many devotees thronging the place, it was difficult to get a snap of the same, so I chose to keep the cam inside the bag, get inside and take the blessings at least.
By this time everyone’s stomachs were twisting and turning from inside since we had a very very small snack at the start and the hunger was accentuated by the hill climbing up drill we just underwent. We spotted a hotel “Hotel Midtown” right at the Chandikhole crossing. Thankfully it was still open and serving, since most of the places shut down in afternoon usually after 2.30. The food was ordered and the round table discussions started about the rest of the trip. Considering that the next day was also off, we were contemplating extending our travel, but to where and how was the question.
Keonjhar came out as the picked destination after some quick phone calls to our local colleagues at office. However we were warned of the extremely bad roads and the trucks plying on the same if we happen to get late.
At that moment, Ratnagiri was dropped as the destination since it was already 4pm and we had to cover another 120 odd kms out of which most part of the road was in a bad shape with no lights. Our inherent delays followed us everywhere, this time because we missed a turn from the highway by 20kms and had to come all the way back. We were supposed to take a left from the highway at Panikholi. We still had over 90 kms to reach Keonjhar and by now it was getting dark. Single road with multiple SPEEDBREAKERS (they were meant to break more than just speeds) and potholes marked our ride till we realized we had missed a turn once again, thankfully only by 4kms this time. Once we got the turn, we made sure that we keep asking people for directions not to go off track again. The road now had no lights except coming from the vehicles, and it was almost 6.30. Our next miles
tone was to reach Ghatagaon, Maa Tarini Temple which was about 45kms from here. Sudden huge potholes on the road kept us on an alert all through the ride. The last phase of 20-25kms towards Ghatagaon was an awesome road through a dense jungle, wherein if you shut off your headlights, you would not be able to see your own hands even. Scary but splendid it was. It was getting a bit cold as well which was hurting the already aching backs from those huge speed bumps. We finally reached Maa Tarini Temple at 8pm. I would say that we were very lucky to have reached there just in time before the temple closes. The front gate was already latched, but a local suggested trying the side door which might be open, and it was. We were the last group of visitors to enter after which they shut that door. The temple was beautiful from inside with a circular boundary. In the centre was the idol of Maa Tarini. The idol with two big eyes, with a mark in centre for nose, completely painted in red emanated power and divinity. I so much wanted to have a shot of the scene there but unfortunately taking pics was not allowed inside. Stepping out after the short puja and the yumm prasad we were wondering how much more of roads we had to cover till we finally got a bed to rest our butts on.We had absolutely no idea that the worst was still to come. The next 45-50Kms were only potholes with roads showing up sometimes in between. To worsen the situation, we had a caravan of trucks (unfortunately the truck movement had started) on the road. Dust was all around, all over, and inside our systems as well. We were looking like a
s if just came out from a dust mine by the time we reached Keonjhar.It was about 10 by the time we reached. Now we desperately needed some rest, a warm bath and cozy beds. Looking around we came across “Hotel Labanaya” towards our right on the main road itself. On checking out the inside, we could not rate it worthy to spend a night, not value for money by the amount they were charging. Looking out further, on the way we came across another hotel “Hotel Shreekrishna”. It had decent rooms, cheap, and the best part, had hot water…we went no further and simply checked in there. We ordered food. There in the hotel we were eating papads, egg bhurji, munching on the baadam (groundnut is called badam here), and discussing how crazy we are and what a crazy journey this has been so far. It was 1.30 when everyone hit the sack and I did doubt if anyone would be ready to start anything before 10 in the morning.
Day 2:
A pleasant countryside morning it was and Suneel (the enthusiastic one) came banging each door, pulling each one’s sheets, punching…trying to wake up the sleeping logs, only to give a start. But all efforts in vain, we eventually started at about 11.
Taking directions from the hotel guys and the places to see we headed for the 1st in our list “Sanaghagra” and “Badaghagra” falls. Just about 3-4 kms from our place we spotted a “Panthnivas” on the right. It could have been a very good stay for us in case we knew about it in advance. Nonetheless we moved on.
It was surprising that very few people were able to give us the correct directions for the two places and we went off road a couple of times before we were able to reach the smaller of the two “Sanaghagra” falls. The place had been decently maintained. One had to walk for about 500mtrs from the parking area to reach the falls. It was a series of small but beautiful waterfalls. Unfortunately it did not look very inviting for a dip so most of us kept to the sides getting wet and playing around.
On the way back to our bikes, there was a villager selling blocks of wood claiming to be sandal at 40 bucks each. I was skeptical about the authenticity of the same since a block of sandalwood of that size costs around 800 bucks back in Cauvery, Bangalore. In fact the doubt was strengthened when he agreed to give it for 15 bucks a piece. Only to realize at the end of the journey that we had been duped :), it was just a block of wood dipped in scented water, did not expect this from a villager.
Post “sanghagra” we headed for “badaghagra”. Trying to figure out the way, we realized that it was a narrow stony road uphill which lead to the Ghagra river reservoir and the falls. We could see no one on the way and nowhere near and around as well. Such was the situation that at one point we divided into two groups at a V junction and planned come back after exactly 10 mins, since there was no network in any one’s mobile (Something Vodafone should look at. they did not follow me here). Incidentally both the ways went to different sides of the water fall. We reached the base of the waterfall where there was some solar power stat
ion which looked as if it was an abandoned building. While the other group reached the reservoir. Shouts and yells brought both the groups together at the huge reservoir. It was a beautiful sight with only water at one end of the horizon and lush green jungle on the other end.Considering it was 2pm already and we were way behind our schedule we headed for the other places on our list. Still clueless as to what to visit, how to visit, where to go, we took the advice of some local people as to what could be completed within the small amount of time that we had. A unanimous answer was Gonasika, and the origin of river baithrani. Asking directions was easy, but getting the right direction was a hell of a task. From the main road near Sanghagra, the distance was estimated to be about 25-30kms.
Once off the highway towards Sambhalpur, it was a dreamlike stretch with a narrow but smooth single road with tall trees on both sides. It was a winding road with steep ups and downs…more of climbs since we were on our way towards the hill top.
Even though the ride was smooth but the load of pillion and the steep climb made our mean machines to groan in agony. And that’s when it happened, one of them broke down. Chain went loose. We were like, in middle of nowhere, no idea how far we were from civilization, how much time it would take to reach there and million such thoughts started brewing in our heads. That’s when a god sent angel came (a local) who though was going the other way, obliged us by taking us to the village mechanic. The mechanic’s shop was so inconspicuous, that we could have not possibly figured it out on our own. The bike was fixed and we were ready to start again all thanks to that angel.
In this village it was a temple ahead of which was the river origin. Prayers were offered at the temple, Prasad taken and off we were towards the hilltop. Road now was the narrowest, and there was a point where we had to finally park our bikes to walk and climb the rest of the distance. After walking fo
r a while, there was another series of steps painted green by the moss covering them and small streams of water gushing by. At the end of the steps was a very small temple. Inside was an idol of a goddess and a rock looking like head of a cow at her feet. On close observation we saw the stream of water actually pouring out of the nostrils of that cow head shaped rock. This, this was the origin of the baitarini river. Such an interesting thing it is, that most of the rivers start from small springs or streams like this and grow huge before flowing into the sea. It was about 4.30 and slightly getting dark, so with more prayers, more offerings and some snaps we wrapped up the stay there.Next task was to reach back to our hotel. Ride downhill was much easier and smoother since we knew the roads well now. Our only aim was to be able 2 hit the state highway before the trucks and dumpers did. But as luck would have had it, on the way back Sunil’s bike gave in again. This time it was a flat tyre. Since we were moving in sets of two bikes, he had one company. Since there was no network, there was no possibility of messaging to us as we had moved ahead.
Interestingly Vivek volunteered to get some help, waved his thumb, got a lift to nowhere (mind it he does not understand hindi, forget Oriya). The situation now, one bike reached the hotel, one stopped en route ahead since a call connected to them from a local PCO, two bikes at the puncture shop, and a lost guy with no network.
It was a painful ordeal of patience and wait for about an hour before everyone was able to get in touch with each other. Maybe the prayers came for our help. Else otherwise it could have easily been a big search operation since it was already pretty dark.
Everyone took a breather getting back together at the hotel and that’s when the ragging session of the lost soul began. The fun got interrupted by the tea and plates full of hot aloo pakoras which in no time were gobbled up. These were the first elements of food that got into our system other than biscuits and water. Refueled we were back on the road by 7. By now it was already late and we had to face the ordeal of the following the trucks with the whirlwind of dust behind them.
This time we were not lucky to be at the Ma Tarini temple on time, way late by half hour. By now we knew that there was no chance we could reach before 12, but the need of the hour was food, which we desperately longed for. The hope of getting a good dhabha on the highway fuelled us to cover the next 50kms of the ride. The small eating joints looked too tempting on the way, but we held back to reach the highway, even though we were not sure of what we would possibly get there.
And then came the highway, and a series of small and big dhabhas. Had no more patience, simply barged into one, ordered a humongous meal and gulped Masala coke while we waited for the feast to arrive. Not a great meal, but then who cares when you’re hungry. Gluttony had taken over the taste buds. Now that everyone was full getting up from those chairs now seemed to take like an eternity. It was 12.30 by now, and we had another 100kms to reach Bhubaneswar. But now it was a smooth 6 lane national highway ahead of us, with barely any traffic. Stomachs full to hearts desire we were ready to zoom back to our comfortable homes.
Zipping at comfortable speeds of 80-90, in no time we were back in Bhubaneswar sitting at the Rasulgarh circle for everyone to catch up. There we were, all of us sitting and laughing at the moments from the trip. Finally at 2.30 in the night we bid each other byes as we parted ways for our homes.
Lying on my bed, after such an eventful trip, I was wondering how ill cope with the uneventful days in office ahead. That’s when I stretched, shrugged the thought out of my head, turned on my side and slipped into sweet slumber. Goodnight!
Places of Stay in Keonjhar:
Panthanivas Keonjhar, At/Po. Judia, Keonjhar - 758 002,
Tel. 06766 - 253603, Mob. 9238211629
Hotel Shreekrishna, NH6 Near Madhapur
09437826311, (06766)256999, 250111
Other hotels in the area are
Hotel Ajanta 06766-253372, Hotel Plaza 06766-255246, Labanya Lodge 06766-255507, Keonjhar Lodge 06766-255794 , Gayatree guest house 06766-255668, Hotel Ankita, Shreekshetra Hotel
More pics from the trip can be found at Picasa Album
--Nalin Agarwal
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Orissa Dairies: 64 Yogini Temple & Local Palm Leaf Art by NALIN AGARWAL
Location: Hirapur village, Khorda Distt.
Nearest Towns: Bhubaneswar.
Distances: 16Kms from Bhubaneswar
Getting there: Bhubaneswar towards Puri, left turn into the village after crossing Dhauli. One can book an auto or taxi to and fro from Bhubaneswar.
Trip Length: 3 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: September to March (preferably mornings to be able to attend the morning puja)
Worst Time to Visit: Peak Summer
Permission: None Required
Things to look for: 64 Yogini temple and local palm leaf art
Things to carry: Bottle of water, some snacks, extra memory card for camera (you are bound to take many photos).
Rating: 3.5 / 5
Fact file:
Simple circular enclosures without a roof are an unusual phenomenon among t
he religious shrines in India. In addition, the circular walls of these enclosures have niches that enshrine sixty-four female images known as Yoginis. These shrines are referred to as the Chausath (sixty-four) Yogini temples, and the cult associated with them is known as the Yogini cult, forbidden archaeological sites of India. All told, nine Yogini temples have been discovered so far in Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Orissa has two of these outstanding temples located at Hirapur, a deltoid village just outside Bhubaneswar, and another at Ranipur Jharial in the western strip of Bolangir district.
Of all the Yogini temples of India, the Hirapur Temple is the best preserved forbidden archaeological site. Loca
ted over the vast plains of the Mahanadi delta, on the bank of the sacred Bhargavi River, Hirapur is a small picturesque village, set amidst a peaceful environment, just outside the modern bustling town of Bhubaneswar. The Yogini Temple, otherwise known as the Mahamaya Temple, situated near the village entrance has an ambience that is quite charged. The temple conveys an impression of the overwhelming power of its sixty-four Yoginis. Mahamaya, the presiding deity of the temple is found adorned with red cloth and vermilion. The deity is still worshipped by the local villagers.
The Hirapur Temple is the smallest of the Yogini temples in India. The temple is a
circular structure
, 30 feet in diameter, which is built of coarse sandstone and has barely 8 feet high walls containing 64 niches to house the sculptures of Yoginis or Dakinis (2 feet in height). These 64 deities carved from fine-grained gray chlorite are goddess with voluptuous figures or animal faces and shrunken skulls give the 64 Yogini Shrines its name. These goddesses in turn serve Goddess Kali (Bhairavi). The Yogini cult, an offshoot of tantric practices in India during the 9th -13th century, believed that by worshipping the 64 goddesses and the Goddess Bhairavi, they would be able to channel the destructive energies of these deities to acquire positive supernatural powers for themselves including the ability to shape shift and become invisible.
The deities are derived from the village deity such as Ramchandi, Shyamkali, Harachandi, Tarini, Viraja, Bhagavati, Durgamata, Sarala, Bhadrakali, Kamakhya, Bhabani, and Mangala who are revered by the local villagers. Together in numerical groupings of 8 especially 64, they unleash there significant powers that can create and destroy mankind.
The Journey:
Inspired by my previous visit, and the pleasant weather, a friend of mine tagged along with me this time to explore the much talked about Yogini temple. Also, as it was my first chance to get started with my
new baby ….Canon 1000D, I was very excited about the trip. Considering that it was just 16kms away, we took our own sweet time, had lunch and then made a move for the place on my bike. We reached the place around 2 in the afternoon, with an overcast sky; it was a great weather for making an excursion. The place was beautifully located within the village with a big pond on one side and farms all the way.
At the entrance of the complex was a small but a beautiful temple on the left with a statue of Gopinath. Similar to other temples I have seen here, it was painted in vibrant shades of orange, red and blue with an idol of Nandi facing the door of the temple.
A little up ahead was the Yogini Temple. At the first sight of it, we could simply think of it like a circular stage or a platform of stones being only a little over 7-8 ft in height. Moving close we could see the idols on the outer walls of the temple, as well as two idols standing carved at the narrow entrance. We stooped to enter inside the temple through the small gate. The temple inside had a perfect circular wall and without a roof. We could not help but notice and admire the beautifully carved idols of the Yoginis on the wall one beside the other.
Closely observing, each one of them looked as if they were made of metal, so neat was their finishing considering it is a temple belonging to 9-13th century. It was a
transformation into another world altogether, with an open sky above and surrounded by idols which were considered extremely powerful in the tantric cult religion. Each idol was clearly distinguished from the other by the mounts, postures and head structures. A guide explained each of the 64 idols and their names, some of which I remember are Narmada on an elephant, Mananda on lotus, Padmavati on snake etc. Some of the idols were damaged and fractured, and are considered to be the act of an angry king. At the centre of the temple was an elevated platform with four pillars, which was explained to be the place for the execution of sacrifices.
The two idols at the entrance were Kala and Mahakala. However, being very poor at mythology, I could not truly appreciate the religious or the spiritual significance of the presence of various idols there, but for sure I felt the entire setup to be overwhelming.
After taking photographs of the temple, and some special pics of my friend who needed them to be posted for his matrimonial page ….we made our exit from the temple complex. My friend got into a conversation with a local villager there while I was busy taking photographs, and that’s when I realized the villager had taken my friend to his home nearby. I followed them into the house. That guy and his wife were actually artists who painted and drew on palm leaves and sold them for a living and wanted to show/sell them to us.
Here they showed us the various pieces of art they had made. A quick look into their house I could see various idols of Lord Jagannath and other art pieces. In fact, as a demonstration, the woman even showed us how they make the drawings on the palm leaf. With a heavy, big nail like tool she quickly drew some invisible stuff on the leaf. Then she rubbed some kohl on that area and voila, the drawing appeared. Within seconds, she had made a real neat pair of hands and a face. As an appreciation to their art and efforts, we both bought small drawings from them.
A personal word here, please do not bargain much with them or artists like them anywhere. They make their living with this art and it is only because of the support they get, various art forms are still alive & getting carried forward to future generations. Please make sure you are promoting the art & the artists not the traders.
We made a final bow towards the temple, hopped on the bike and headed back towards our cribs.
More pictures from this trip can be found here Picasa Album
--Nalin Agarwal
Nearest Towns: Bhubaneswar.
Distances: 16Kms from Bhubaneswar
Getting there: Bhubaneswar towards Puri, left turn into the village after crossing Dhauli. One can book an auto or taxi to and fro from Bhubaneswar.
Trip Length: 3 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: September to March (preferably mornings to be able to attend the morning puja)
Worst Time to Visit: Peak Summer
Permission: None Required
Things to look for: 64 Yogini temple and local palm leaf art
Things to carry: Bottle of water, some snacks, extra memory card for camera (you are bound to take many photos).
Rating: 3.5 / 5
Fact file:
Simple circular enclosures without a roof are an unusual phenomenon among t
he religious shrines in India. In addition, the circular walls of these enclosures have niches that enshrine sixty-four female images known as Yoginis. These shrines are referred to as the Chausath (sixty-four) Yogini temples, and the cult associated with them is known as the Yogini cult, forbidden archaeological sites of India. All told, nine Yogini temples have been discovered so far in Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Orissa has two of these outstanding temples located at Hirapur, a deltoid village just outside Bhubaneswar, and another at Ranipur Jharial in the western strip of Bolangir district.Of all the Yogini temples of India, the Hirapur Temple is the best preserved forbidden archaeological site. Loca
ted over the vast plains of the Mahanadi delta, on the bank of the sacred Bhargavi River, Hirapur is a small picturesque village, set amidst a peaceful environment, just outside the modern bustling town of Bhubaneswar. The Yogini Temple, otherwise known as the Mahamaya Temple, situated near the village entrance has an ambience that is quite charged. The temple conveys an impression of the overwhelming power of its sixty-four Yoginis. Mahamaya, the presiding deity of the temple is found adorned with red cloth and vermilion. The deity is still worshipped by the local villagers.The Hirapur Temple is the smallest of the Yogini temples in India. The temple is a
circular structure
, 30 feet in diameter, which is built of coarse sandstone and has barely 8 feet high walls containing 64 niches to house the sculptures of Yoginis or Dakinis (2 feet in height). These 64 deities carved from fine-grained gray chlorite are goddess with voluptuous figures or animal faces and shrunken skulls give the 64 Yogini Shrines its name. These goddesses in turn serve Goddess Kali (Bhairavi). The Yogini cult, an offshoot of tantric practices in India during the 9th -13th century, believed that by worshipping the 64 goddesses and the Goddess Bhairavi, they would be able to channel the destructive energies of these deities to acquire positive supernatural powers for themselves including the ability to shape shift and become invisible.The deities are derived from the village deity such as Ramchandi, Shyamkali, Harachandi, Tarini, Viraja, Bhagavati, Durgamata, Sarala, Bhadrakali, Kamakhya, Bhabani, and Mangala who are revered by the local villagers. Together in numerical groupings of 8 especially 64, they unleash there significant powers that can create and destroy mankind.
The Journey:
Inspired by my previous visit, and the pleasant weather, a friend of mine tagged along with me this time to explore the much talked about Yogini temple. Also, as it was my first chance to get started with my
new baby ….Canon 1000D, I was very excited about the trip. Considering that it was just 16kms away, we took our own sweet time, had lunch and then made a move for the place on my bike. We reached the place around 2 in the afternoon, with an overcast sky; it was a great weather for making an excursion. The place was beautifully located within the village with a big pond on one side and farms all the way.At the entrance of the complex was a small but a beautiful temple on the left with a statue of Gopinath. Similar to other temples I have seen here, it was painted in vibrant shades of orange, red and blue with an idol of Nandi facing the door of the temple.
A little up ahead was the Yogini Temple. At the first sight of it, we could simply think of it like a circular stage or a platform of stones being only a little over 7-8 ft in height. Moving close we could see the idols on the outer walls of the temple, as well as two idols standing carved at the narrow entrance. We stooped to enter inside the temple through the small gate. The temple inside had a perfect circular wall and without a roof. We could not help but notice and admire the beautifully carved idols of the Yoginis on the wall one beside the other.
Closely observing, each one of them looked as if they were made of metal, so neat was their finishing considering it is a temple belonging to 9-13th century. It was a
transformation into another world altogether, with an open sky above and surrounded by idols which were considered extremely powerful in the tantric cult religion. Each idol was clearly distinguished from the other by the mounts, postures and head structures. A guide explained each of the 64 idols and their names, some of which I remember are Narmada on an elephant, Mananda on lotus, Padmavati on snake etc. Some of the idols were damaged and fractured, and are considered to be the act of an angry king. At the centre of the temple was an elevated platform with four pillars, which was explained to be the place for the execution of sacrifices.The two idols at the entrance were Kala and Mahakala. However, being very poor at mythology, I could not truly appreciate the religious or the spiritual significance of the presence of various idols there, but for sure I felt the entire setup to be overwhelming.
After taking photographs of the temple, and some special pics of my friend who needed them to be posted for his matrimonial page ….we made our exit from the temple complex. My friend got into a conversation with a local villager there while I was busy taking photographs, and that’s when I realized the villager had taken my friend to his home nearby. I followed them into the house. That guy and his wife were actually artists who painted and drew on palm leaves and sold them for a living and wanted to show/sell them to us.
Here they showed us the various pieces of art they had made. A quick look into their house I could see various idols of Lord Jagannath and other art pieces. In fact, as a demonstration, the woman even showed us how they make the drawings on the palm leaf. With a heavy, big nail like tool she quickly drew some invisible stuff on the leaf. Then she rubbed some kohl on that area and voila, the drawing appeared. Within seconds, she had made a real neat pair of hands and a face. As an appreciation to their art and efforts, we both bought small drawings from them.
A personal word here, please do not bargain much with them or artists like them anywhere. They make their living with this art and it is only because of the support they get, various art forms are still alive & getting carried forward to future generations. Please make sure you are promoting the art & the artists not the traders.
We made a final bow towards the temple, hopped on the bike and headed back towards our cribs.
More pictures from this trip can be found here Picasa Album
--Nalin Agarwal
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
YOGINI
Yogini is the feminine form corresponding to the masculine yogi. Yoginis are known to possess a steadfast mind, which they cultivate through the disciplined pursuit of transcendence, an idea that is central to the practice of yoga. Tantric scholars have described yoginis as independent, outspoken women with graceful spirits, without whom yoga would fail to achieve its full, fruitful purpose.
Though the leaders of the modern Yoga-asana & meditation tradition have often been male, the vast majority of modern practitioners are female, including many who have attained mastery through the primary Yoga of the embodied Shakti life mysteries of the life cycle and mothering. Only the female can awaken the muladhara chakra (the seat of the Kundalini-shakti) via fertility and sexuality; the male must use kriya Yoga.
In the Hindu tradition, mother is first guru (teacher) and in the Yoga tradition, proper respect of Yoginis is a necessary part of the path to liberation. A Yogini is the sacred feminine force made incarnate: the goddesses of mythology (Lakshmi, Durga, Kali) as well as the ordinary human woman who is enlightened, both having exuberant passion, spiritual powers and deep insight, capable of giving birth to saints, peacemakers, and Yogis.
In the Tibetan Buddhism and Bön tradition, a female practitioner is known as a ngagma (see ngagpa), and in the Drikung Kagyu school of Buddhism, togdenma (Tenzin Palmo). These married tantric practitioners are required to devote significant time to retreat and spiritual practice. Ngagma are particularly known for performing birth rituals, weddings, funerals, divinations, and pacification of spiritual disruptions. Some ngagma are comparable in practice to the Mahasidda yoginis of Indian Buddhism.
Yogini as tantrika
According to the Hatha-Yoga-Pradipika text, a yogini is more specifically a wom
an initiate who can preserve her own genital ejaculate (rajas) and contain the male semen (bindu) by means of the practice of the vajroli-mudra, also practiced in reverse by advanced yogis.The Sixty-Four Yogini temples
There are four major extant sixty four yogini temples in India, two of them are in Orissa and the other two are in Madhya Pradesh. One of the most impressive yogini temples in Orissa is the 9th century CE hypaethral Chausathi yogini (sixty-four yogini) temple located at Hirapur in Khurda district, 15 km south of Bhubaneshwar. Another hypaethral sixty-four yogini temple in Orissa is the Chausathi yogini pitha in Ranipur-Jharial, near Titilagarh in Balangir district. Presently only 62 images are found in this temple.
Two notable Yogini temples in Madhya Pradesh are the 9th century CE Chaunsath yogini temple to the southwest of the western group of temples in Khajuraho, near Chhatarpur in Chhatarpur District and the 10th century CE Chaunsath yogini mandir in Bhedaghat, near Jabalpur in Jabalpur district.
The iconographies of the Yogini images in four Yogini temples are not uniform. In Hirapur yogini temple, all Yogini images are with their vahanas (vehicles) and in standing posture. In Ranipur-Jharial temple the yogini images are in dancing posture. In Bhedaghat temple Yogini images are seated in Lalitasana.
Association with Matrikas
Often the Matrikas are confused with the Yoginis which may be sixty-four or eighty-one. In Sanskrit literature the Yoginis have been represented as the attendants or various manifestations of Durga engaged in fighting with the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha, and the principal Yoginis are identified with the Matrikas.[16] Other Yoginis are described as born from one or more Matrikas. The derivation of 64 Yogini from 8 Matrikas became a tradition. By mid- 11th century, the connection between Yoginis and Matrikas had become common lore. The Mandala (circle) and chakra of Yoginis were used alternatively. The 81 Yoginis evolve from a group of nine Matrikas, instead of seven or eight. The Saptamatrika (Brahmi, Maheshvari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indrani (Aindri) and Chamundi) joined by Candika and Mahalakshmi form the nine Matrika cluster. Each Matrika is considered to be a Yogini and is associate with eight other Yoginis resulting in the troupe of 81 (nine times nine).
Source: Wikipedia
Compiled by Roopa Sreedhar
Dakini
Dakini
A dakini (Sanskrit: डाकिणी ḍākinī; Tibetan: khandro; Wylie:mkha'-'gro-ma;TP:Kandroma; Chinese language: 空行女) is a tantric deity described as a female embodiment of enlightened energy. In the Tibetan language, dakini is rendered Khandroma which means 'she who traverses the sky' or 'she who moves in space'. Sometimes the term is translated poetically as 'sky dancer' or 'sky walker'.
The dakini, in all her varied forms, is an important figure in Tibetan Buddhism. She is so central to the requirements for a practitioner to attain full enlightenment as a Buddha that she appears in a tantric formulation of the Buddhist Three Jewels refuge formula known as the Three Roots. Most commonly she appears as the protector, alongside a guru and yidam, but Judith Simmer-Brown points out that:
The dakini, in her various guises, serves as each of the Three Roots. She may be a human guru, a vajra master who transmits the Vajrayana teachings to her disciples and joins them in samaya commitments. The wisdom dakini may be a yidam, a meditational deity; female d
eity yogas such as Vajrayogini are common in Tibetan Buddhism. Or she may be a protector; the wisdom dakinis have special power and responsibility to protect the integrity of oral transmissions.Iconography
According to Campbell, "Iconographic representations tend to show the dakini as a young, naked figure in a dancing posture, often holding a skullcup (kapala) filled with menstrual blood or the elixir of life in one hand, and a curved knife (kartika) in the other. She may wear a garland of human skulls, with a trident staff leaning against her shoulder. Her hair is usually wild and hanging down her back, and her face often wrathful in expression, as she dances on top of a corpse, which represents her complete mastery over ego and ignorance.
Although dakini figures appear in Hinduism and in the Bön tradition, dakinis are particularly prevalent in Vajrayana Buddhism and have been particularly conceived in Tibetan Buddhism where the dakini, generally of volatile or wrathful temperament, act somewhat as a muse (or inspirational thoughtform) for spiritual practice. Dakinis are energetic beings in female form, evocative of the movement of energy in space. In this context, the sky or space indicates shunyata, the insubstantiality of all phenomena, which is, at the same time, the pure potentiality for all possible manifestations.
Dakinis, being associated with energy in all its functions, are linked with the revelation of the Anuttara Yoga Tantras or Higher Tantras, which represent the path of transformation. Here, the energy of negative emotions or kleshas, called poisons, are transformed into the luminous energy of enlightened awareness or gnosis (jnana) yielding rigpa.
When considered as a stage on the Vajrayana Path, the dakini is the last of the stages: the first is the guru, which corresponds to the initial realization of the true condition of reality, as this is introduced by the guru in the empowerment, if the disciple obtains what the Inner Tantras call peyi yeshe (dpe yi ye shes); the second is the devata, which corresponds to the Contemplation insofar as the devata is the method we use for developing the state discovered in the initial realization of the true condition of reality; the third and last is the dakini insofar as the dakini is the source of the activities of realization. In Dzogchen (rdzogs chen) these three correspond to tawa (lta ba), gompa (sgom pa) and chöpa (spyod pa): the first is the direct Vision of the true nature of reality rather than an intellectual view of reality, as is the case with the term in other vehicles; the second is the continuity of this Vision in sessions of Contemplation; and the third is the continuity of this Vision in the everyday activities, and the use of imperfection for making the Vision uninterrupted. Qua base, the dakinis are the energies of life; qua Path, they are the activities of advanced practitioners; qua Fruit, they are the actionless activities of realized Masters.
According to tradition, a Dakini gave a black hat to the third Karmapa, Rangjung Dorje (1284 - 1339), when he was three years old.[4] The Black Crown became the emblem of the oldest reincarnating Tibetan lineage.
[edit] Classes of Dakini
Senge Dongma.
Judith Simmer-Brown, based on teachings she received from Tibetan lamas, identifies four main classes of dakini. These follow the Twilight Language tradition of esotericism in referring to secret, inner, outer and outer-outer classes of dakinis. The secret class of dakini is Prajnaparamita (Tibetan yum chenmo) or voidness, the empty nature of reality according to Mahayana doctrine. The inner class of dakini is the dakini of the mandala, a meditational deity (Tibetan:yidam) and fully-enlightened Buddha who helps the practitioner recognise their own Buddhahood. The outer dakini is the physical form of the dakini, attained through Completion Stage Tantra practices such as the Six Yogas of Naropa that work with the subtle winds of the subtle body so that the practitioner's body is compatible with an enlightened mind. The outer-outer dakini is a dakini in human form. She is a yogini, or Tantric practitioner in her own right but may also be a karmamudra, or consort, of a yogi or mahasiddha.
Dakinis can also be classified according to the Trikaya, or three bodies of a Buddha. The dharmakaya dakini, which is Samantabhadri, represents the dharmadhatu where all phenomena appear. The sambhogakaya dakinis are the yidams used as meditational deities for tantric practice. The nirmanakaya dakinis are human women born with special potentialities, these are realized yogini, the consorts of the gurus, or even all women in general as they may be classified into the five Buddha-families.
Source: Wikipedia
Compiled by Roopa Sreedhar
Monday, October 19, 2009
Orissa Dairies: Hot water springs & Hatkeshwar temple by Nalin Agarwal
Location: Baghmari village, Khorda Distt.
Nearest Towns: Bhubaneswar.
Distances: 42Kms from Bhubaneswar
Getting there: Bhubaneswar towards Khorda (NH5), turn into khorda town and keep left from new bus stand. Baghamari is well connected with Govt and Private Buses from Bhubaneswar and you can find Buses within one hour interval for Nayagarh.
Trip Length: 3 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: October to Feb
Worst Time to Visit: Peak Summer & Peak Monsoons
Permission: None Required
Things to look for: Hatkeshwar temple and Hot water springs
Things to carry: Bottle of water, some snacks.
Rating: * out of *****
Factfile:
Situated in the Khurda district of Orissa, 42 Kilometers from the capital city, Atri is one of the most popular hot water sulfur springs in Orissa. The Atri sulfur spring is situated in the middle of paddy fields, and a distinct o
dor of sulfur surrounds the entire surroundings. The water at the Atri hot water spring maintains a steady temperature of 55 degree centigrade all through out the day. The waters from the spring are reserved in an artificial lake for the use of the people.
With a depth of around 15 feet and a circumference of 10 feet, the reservoir collects enough water to supply all the people visiting the place. The crystal clear water of the Atri sulfur spring is believed to have medical properties that have curative powers. According to the local people the Atri sulfur spring can even cure the infertility of women.
The Atri sulfur spring is located in a picturesque setting and the path leading to the spring is lined with banyan, neem and peepul trees. The tourism department of Orissa has constructed a bathing complex besides the spring which allows the pilgrims to take hot water bath indoors. Besides having healing powers the hot water of the Atri spring is famous for rejuvenating ones body and soul. Very near the Atri sulfur spring is located the Shrine of Lord Hatakeswar which is also a popular tourist spot. The place acquires a festive look on the days of Sivaratri and festival of Makar Sakranti.
The Journey:
After wasting numerous weekends spending indoors lazin off or watchin movies I finally decided to give myself a break. Starting after a big gap I needed somewhere close, somewhere easy to warm myself up before I went into bigger expedites once again. So there I was sitting online looking for places in the near vicinity. Of all the options thrown, I chose a lesser visited place known for an old temple (Hatkeshwar Temple) and a not so famous Sulfur hot water spring. Total travel distance was approximated to 42kms and about an hour to reach there. Neither wikimapia nor google maps were of any help to check the route, nonetheless the area was known so the plan was final. Unfortunately my friends were still coming out from the inertia and the hangover from the night…so if I ha
d to travel…it had to be by myself. Still anyways…
I started easy at 11 in the morning towards town of Khurda on NH5. The weather was perfect, cloudy, very light drizzle at times, great road … I couldn’t have had chosen a better day for this trip.
After cruising for 24Kms on the national highway from Khandgiri square, I turned right to enter the roads of town. One could easily miss the turnings as there were no
signboards, and from the boards or hoardings of shops etc, it was difficult to make out the area since they were all in OriyaJ. That’s when the friendly local crowd comes to the rescue, after seeking the directions from the local in my broken two-three word local vocab, I was able to figure the way out. It was mostly straight roads with complete greenery around, green farms on both the sides and an overcast sky up and ahead of me.
These roads through the town with a couple of turns brought me to the temple. It was a beautiful temple with the colourful arch and statues at the entrance. Amidst the quiet farms and serene surroundings the temple was really peaceful. After offering my prayers and taking some pics I made a move towards the hot sulphur springs.
A mile ahead from the temple was the “Atri-Hot Springs”. I entered into the complex with a measly entry charge of Rs.2 J (inflation sure didn’t hit here !!). In the centre of the complex was the well. Walking towards it I could get the same pungent smell that we used to shove at the noses from the test tubes to irritate the girls in the chemistry lab …yes it was sulphur J. Peeping inside the well I could get the whiffs of bubbling hydrogen sulphide emanating from the hot water.
In the meanwhile a priest (or he pretended to be one) had hurried over to me bringing along a small cup tied from a rope which he hurled into the well and took out some water for me to experience, giving the gyaan of 55 degrees temperature etc. He finally left me at peace once he was handed over a currency note. It was a well maintained well, looking around I saw some bathing pools which supposedly had the same sulfur water to cure various ailments. Being touted as having medicinal properties I did wanted to have a go and take a dip in the same.
As I walked towards the 4 of them, there was Fifth pond with the title as ‘Maansik Kuan (Literal English translation – Mental Pond J). At the sight of that I was so sad that I should have brought some of my friends with me…mebbe a dip here would have helped them gain some mental stability J. Sigh…they should have come along !!! Moving further towards the 4 small pools, my enthusiasm was however dampened by the sight those pools were in.
Local villagers were busy having a proper soapy bath while some were busy washing clothes. Nearing the ponds I couldn’t se the inside of the pool because of the deeply murky water.
Considering that I am in the pi
nk of my health I thought I can make a pass at having a dip in this water J maybe laters when I would need some medicinal treatments ill come back again..till then this can wait. Apart from this the complex there had a small park with a couple of swings and see-saws where some kids were having a good time.
Being promoted as a tourist destination under Orissa tourism I would say that this place has not received any attention at all. The main attraction, the hot water spring is safe in that well, but those pools which should have been an interesting pull for tourists shabbily or rather not maintained at all. Overall my score for this place would be 1 out of 5. Not a place that you may feel sad about in case you’re not able to make a visit here.
Finally the lazy me started to take over me slowly and I headed back straight for my home..where my cozy comfortable bed was waiting for me. Not a very rewarding trip but the weather and the surroundings surely made it worth remembering.
More pics from this trip can be found here: Picasa Album
--Nalin Agarwal
TAG INDIA Discoverer for Orissa
Nearest Towns: Bhubaneswar.
Distances: 42Kms from Bhubaneswar
Getting there: Bhubaneswar towards Khorda (NH5), turn into khorda town and keep left from new bus stand. Baghamari is well connected with Govt and Private Buses from Bhubaneswar and you can find Buses within one hour interval for Nayagarh.
Trip Length: 3 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: October to Feb
Worst Time to Visit: Peak Summer & Peak Monsoons
Permission: None Required
Things to look for: Hatkeshwar temple and Hot water springs
Things to carry: Bottle of water, some snacks.
Rating: * out of *****
Factfile:
Situated in the Khurda district of Orissa, 42 Kilometers from the capital city, Atri is one of the most popular hot water sulfur springs in Orissa. The Atri sulfur spring is situated in the middle of paddy fields, and a distinct o
dor of sulfur surrounds the entire surroundings. The water at the Atri hot water spring maintains a steady temperature of 55 degree centigrade all through out the day. The waters from the spring are reserved in an artificial lake for the use of the people.With a depth of around 15 feet and a circumference of 10 feet, the reservoir collects enough water to supply all the people visiting the place. The crystal clear water of the Atri sulfur spring is believed to have medical properties that have curative powers. According to the local people the Atri sulfur spring can even cure the infertility of women.
The Atri sulfur spring is located in a picturesque setting and the path leading to the spring is lined with banyan, neem and peepul trees. The tourism department of Orissa has constructed a bathing complex besides the spring which allows the pilgrims to take hot water bath indoors. Besides having healing powers the hot water of the Atri spring is famous for rejuvenating ones body and soul. Very near the Atri sulfur spring is located the Shrine of Lord Hatakeswar which is also a popular tourist spot. The place acquires a festive look on the days of Sivaratri and festival of Makar Sakranti.
The Journey:
After wasting numerous weekends spending indoors lazin off or watchin movies I finally decided to give myself a break. Starting after a big gap I needed somewhere close, somewhere easy to warm myself up before I went into bigger expedites once again. So there I was sitting online looking for places in the near vicinity. Of all the options thrown, I chose a lesser visited place known for an old temple (Hatkeshwar Temple) and a not so famous Sulfur hot water spring. Total travel distance was approximated to 42kms and about an hour to reach there. Neither wikimapia nor google maps were of any help to check the route, nonetheless the area was known so the plan was final. Unfortunately my friends were still coming out from the inertia and the hangover from the night…so if I ha
d to travel…it had to be by myself. Still anyways…I started easy at 11 in the morning towards town of Khurda on NH5. The weather was perfect, cloudy, very light drizzle at times, great road … I couldn’t have had chosen a better day for this trip.
After cruising for 24Kms on the national highway from Khandgiri square, I turned right to enter the roads of town. One could easily miss the turnings as there were no
signboards, and from the boards or hoardings of shops etc, it was difficult to make out the area since they were all in OriyaJ. That’s when the friendly local crowd comes to the rescue, after seeking the directions from the local in my broken two-three word local vocab, I was able to figure the way out. It was mostly straight roads with complete greenery around, green farms on both the sides and an overcast sky up and ahead of me.These roads through the town with a couple of turns brought me to the temple. It was a beautiful temple with the colourful arch and statues at the entrance. Amidst the quiet farms and serene surroundings the temple was really peaceful. After offering my prayers and taking some pics I made a move towards the hot sulphur springs.
A mile ahead from the temple was the “Atri-Hot Springs”. I entered into the complex with a measly entry charge of Rs.2 J (inflation sure didn’t hit here !!). In the centre of the complex was the well. Walking towards it I could get the same pungent smell that we used to shove at the noses from the test tubes to irritate the girls in the chemistry lab …yes it was sulphur J. Peeping inside the well I could get the whiffs of bubbling hydrogen sulphide emanating from the hot water.
In the meanwhile a priest (or he pretended to be one) had hurried over to me bringing along a small cup tied from a rope which he hurled into the well and took out some water for me to experience, giving the gyaan of 55 degrees temperature etc. He finally left me at peace once he was handed over a currency note. It was a well maintained well, looking around I saw some bathing pools which supposedly had the same sulfur water to cure various ailments. Being touted as having medicinal properties I did wanted to have a go and take a dip in the same.
As I walked towards the 4 of them, there was Fifth pond with the title as ‘Maansik Kuan (Literal English translation – Mental Pond J). At the sight of that I was so sad that I should have brought some of my friends with me…mebbe a dip here would have helped them gain some mental stability J. Sigh…they should have come along !!! Moving further towards the 4 small pools, my enthusiasm was however dampened by the sight those pools were in.
Local villagers were busy having a proper soapy bath while some were busy washing clothes. Nearing the ponds I couldn’t se the inside of the pool because of the deeply murky water.
Considering that I am in the pi
nk of my health I thought I can make a pass at having a dip in this water J maybe laters when I would need some medicinal treatments ill come back again..till then this can wait. Apart from this the complex there had a small park with a couple of swings and see-saws where some kids were having a good time.Being promoted as a tourist destination under Orissa tourism I would say that this place has not received any attention at all. The main attraction, the hot water spring is safe in that well, but those pools which should have been an interesting pull for tourists shabbily or rather not maintained at all. Overall my score for this place would be 1 out of 5. Not a place that you may feel sad about in case you’re not able to make a visit here.
Finally the lazy me started to take over me slowly and I headed back straight for my home..where my cozy comfortable bed was waiting for me. Not a very rewarding trip but the weather and the surroundings surely made it worth remembering.
More pics from this trip can be found here: Picasa Album
--Nalin Agarwal
TAG INDIA Discoverer for Orissa
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Dzongri Goecha La Trek in Oct/Nov 09
Dzongri Goecha La TrekIntroduction
This popular trek in Sikkim, is from Yuksom to Dzongri and onwards to Goecha La, and has superb views of Kanchenjunga. From Yuksam, the trail follows the Rathong Valley to Bakkhim and from here a steep ascent to the village of Tsokha. Above Tsokha the trail reaches Phedang. A further stage brings you to Dzongri (4020 M). From here the trail drops steeply down the river to Thangsing (3930 M). The final stop is at Samiti Lake from which an assault is made to Goecha La (4940 M) for the best views of Kanchenjunga.
Dzongri is situated at an altitude of about
4020 M, in west Sikkim. It offers the trekker a most fascinating close-up view of Kanchenjunga and Mt. Pandim. To the west rises the long outline of the Kyangla ridge. Dzongri is trekker’s paradise. Goecha La is situated at an altitude of about 4940 M. Goecha La offers a mind catching sight of the mountains like Pandim, Kanchenjunga and the others. The trek to Goecha la really is getting out & getting trekked. There are only few trekking routes around the Kanchenjunga National Park that are open to visitors. The trek is traditional which follows a picturesque route past lush vegetation and wonderful mountain views until it reaches a high pass.
Day 01: Bagdogra – Darjeeling
Take morning connecting flight from Bangalore via De
lhi to Bagdogra. Transfer into hotel. Evening sightseeing and acclimatisation. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.Day 02: Darjeeling – Yuksom (123 kms/6-7 hrs)
Today we will drive to Yuksom. The base of our trek. Dinner and overnight stay in
guesthouse/tents.
Day 03: Yuksam - Bakkhim (5-6 hrs/ 2744 m)
Today we will start our day 1 trek to Bakkhim with packed lunch. We follow a well-marked forest trail that winds high above the Rathong River. The trail winds through forests of conifer and oaks, mosses and ferns and past frequent side streams that tumble down the hillside. After four to five hours the trail crosses a substantial bridge just upstream of the confluence of the Rathong River and the
Prek River. From the bridge it is a further one hour ascent to the small settlement of Bakkhim (2750 metres), where a single Lepcha family live. The Lepchas, the original inhabitants of Sikkim were forced to move to the remote regions when large numbers of Tibetans migrated to Sikkim in the 17th century. Although there is a Rest House in Bakkhim, on arrival set out camp for overnight stay.Day 04: Bakkhim – Tshoka - Phedang (04godz. - 3760 m)
In the morning after breakfast we ascend the meadows above Bakkhim before reaching the village of Tsokha. Tibetan refugees who were granted this tract of land by the Sikkim government founded the village about a generation ago. From Tshoka the trail ascends steeply through magnificent rhododendron forest to the grazing meadow at Phedang (3700 metres). A short stage but necessary for acclimatization before continuing to Dzongri. Overnight at camp.
Day 05: Phedang - Dzongri (03godz. - 4320m)
From Phedang an early start is imperative. The trail ascends steeply for one hour before we gain our first uninterrupted views of the peak of Kanchenjunga (8586 metres) and Pandim (6691 metres). From the vantage point it is a further two to three km across the open meadows to the camp at Dzongri (4020 metres). Here we gain views of the main peaks along the Singalilla Ridge- the impressive divide between Nepal and Sikkim. The panorama includes
Koktang (6147 metres), Rathong (6679 metres), Kabru Sth. (7317 metres) and Kabru Nth (7338 metres). Overnight at camp.
Day 06: Rest day & Acclimatise at Dzongri
The day is for rest and acclimatization. On this day one can savor views of the mountain peaks by climbing up to Dzongri Top. From here you get a panoramic view of Kabru (7353 m), Ratong (6678 m), Kanchenjunga (8534 m), Koktang (6147 m), Pandim (6691 m) a
nd Narsingh (5825 m). Towards the west, the Singalilla Ridge, which separates Sikkim from Nepal, can be seen. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.Day 07: Dzongri – Thangsing (3800 mts/ 12464 ft) (10 kms/4-5 hrs)
The trail from Dzongri continues along the right bank of the river towards east. After cresting the hill the path drops into the valley and then crosses the bridge over the Prek Chu River. It’s an hour climb from the bridge to Thangsing (3800 m) located on the slopes of Mt Pandim. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Day 08: Thangsing – Samiti Lake (4500 mts/ 14760 ft) (7 kms/3-4 hrs)
The trail from Thangsing climbs gently north and follows a stream and alpine meadows. About an h
our above Thangsing we reach Onglathang from where the superb view of the south face of Kanchenjunga can be seen. In order to capture clear views one has to reach Onglathang early. The trail then skirts through a series of glacial moraines before crossing over meadows again, and arrives at the emerald lake at Samiti. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.Day 09: Samiti Lake – Goecha La (5002 mts/ 16406 ft) – Samiti Lake (12 kms/6-7 hrs)
The climb to Goecha La begins with gentle gradient eastwards for about half an hour and then later the steep ascent starts. The trail follows the glacial moraine north-east and then drops to a dry lake at Zemathang. A tough scramble over rocks and boulders with a rise of 400 meters will bring us on the top of the pass. The pass is formed due to the depression between Pandim and the Kabru spurs. It over looks the Talung Valley and commands a very
impressive view of the south faces of Kanchenjunga. Afternoon return to the Samiti lake. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Day 10: Samiti Lake – Tshokha (14 kms/6-7 hrs)
Start retracing steps towards Thangsing will take about couple of hours or so. From Thangsing follow the trail to Kokchorung (3800 m) which is a good camping site. Continue descending towards Tsokha by going through a bypass route directly to Tsokha. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.
Day 11: Tshoka – Yuksom (14 kms/5-6 hrs)
Retrace steps towards Yuksam on the final day of the trek. The going is easier as the path is mainly downhill. Overnight stay at guest house.
Day 12: Yuksam – Bagdogra
In the morning after breakfast drive to Bagdogra to catch a flight for onwards destination. Trip Ends Here
COST OF THE TRIP
Approximately Rs. 6,000 per person* (for a minimum of 4 people)
COST INCLUDES
• Accommodation: Budget Hotel/Guest House at Darjeeling, Yuksam. While on trek we take
Dome/Alpine trekking tents on twin sharing basis. Sleeping bag, Camping mattresses, camping stool etc would be provided.
• Transport: Toyota Qualis/Tata Sumo from Bagdogra – Trek point and back to
Bagdogra.
• Meals: While on trek, all meal. Meals will be freshly prepared and will be a mix of Indian, Chinese & Continental.
• Yaks/Porters: For carrying camping equipment, rations, vegetables and some
amount of personal gear of the clients (one bag not weighing more than 14 kgs).
• Professional local trekking guide and kitchen staff would accompany the group
• Entry fee and Inner Line permit (ILP) etc
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE
• Air Ticket
• Any charges for carrying still/video cameras etc.
• Personal expenses like tips, telephone calls, laundry, etc.
• Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances like landslides, road blocks, bad
weather, etc.
• Travel insurance
Best Regards,
TAG India Team
9886162404
Friday, July 31, 2009
Animal Rescue Shelters in Bangalore
Animal Rescue Shelters in Bangalore
Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Trust
Animal Shelter, Snake Catchers
Mr Srinath N K
-26392561
No.4, 19th Crs,15th Mn,Chikkalasandra Tank Bed,
Padmanabhanagar, Bangalore - 560070
Cupa
Animal Shelter
Dr Balasubramaniam
-22947291
www.cupabangalore.org
Lakshman Rao Ngr, Viveknagar, Bangalore - 560047
Wild Life Association Of South India
Animal Shelter, Associations
Ishwariah
-25300367
No.17/1, Victoria Layout, Bangalore - 560047
Pet India Clinic
Animal Shelter, Veterinary Hospitals
+(91)-(80)-25532636, 25532766
No.630, 17th A Mn,6th Blk,
Koramangala, Bangalore - 560095
Bangalore Gourakshan Shalla
Animal Shelter, Diary Dealers
Mr Prakash Jain(Proprietor)
+(91)-(80)-28510272, 28517092
-9844455289
No.B-37, Nr Kr Puram Railway Station, Doddanikundi Indl Area,
Mahadevapura, Bangalore - 560048
Cartman Animal Shelter & Clinic
Animal Shelter, Veterinary Doctors, Dog Boarding Kennels
Mr Tn Bamzai
-65362687
-25533203
cartman@vsnl.com
No.870, 17th E Mn Rd,6th Blk, Koramangala, Bangalore - 560095
Government Veterinary Hospital
Animal Shelter, Veterinary Doctors, Veterinary Clinics
Dr Lakshmi Narayan
-22260200
Nr To Kptcl Of, Queens Road, Bangalore - 560001
Karuna Animal Welfare Association
Animal Shelter, Snake Catchers, Dog Catching Van
+(91)-(80)-22860205, 23411181
-9844062539
contact@karunaanimalwelfare.org
www.karunaanimalwelfare.org
Op To Queens Statue, Kasturba Road, Bangalore - 560001
New Look Aquarium
Animal Shelter, Aquariums, Aquarium Fish Dealers
Mr Ganesh Rao
-9886783835
mainhoonna-2004@yahoo.com
No.09,, Opp Ashoka Heights, Shankarnagar Mn Rd,
Mahalakshmipuram Layout, Bangalore - 560086
Cupa Animal Shelter
Animal Shelter, Ngos
+(91)-(80)-22947300, 22947301
santosh2413@gmail.com
www.cupabangalore.org
Kvafsu Campus, Bh Veterinary College Hospital,
Hebbal, Bangalore - 560024
Livestock Breeding Farm
Bangalore-560088
Animal Shelter
-28466445
-9880995972
Best Regards,
Roopa Sreedhar
9886162404
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Snake Rescue in Bangalore
Snake Rescue in Bangalore (Snake Catchers)
Come rainy season, out come the snakes. Every year this is the scene in all cities. More often that not, without a second thought about handling the situation differently, the snakes are killed. In Bangalore, there are many good human beings who are trained in snake rescue. The snakes are rescued & let into freedom at Turahalli forest or faraway green areas. If you come arcoss a snake that needs rescue, please stop others from killing the snake. Environmentalists will help to rehabilitate the snake to safer zones.
BBMP has also many volunteers helping out in Snake Rescue. Call BBMP and ask for volunteer information for your area. Shoab is one such volunteer; he helps in rescuing snakes in Bangalore. The snakes are let off into the wilderness around Bangalore. You can also learn and train in the art of catching snakes. Volunteers will very willing train you.
Kindly contact
Shoab - 9900206859 (Bangalore South)
Sharath - 9880108801 (Bangalore North)
if you need help in Snake Rescue.
Best Regards,
Roopa Sreedhar
9886162404/9535278981
P.S. Sometimes there may also be a cost involved in rescuing a snake. Please don't let this discourage you.
Chennagiri
Chennagiri
Location: Behind Nandi Hills, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Nearest Towns: Chickballapur, Devanahalli, Bangalore.
Distances: 56 km from Bangalore
Route: NH4, Bangalore, Devanahalli, Nandi cross, behind Nandi Hills
Camping Sites: top of the hill, or at the base of the hill near the Shiva temple
Trek Length: half a day trek
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Best Time To Visit: All round the year
Worst Time To Visit: Peak Summer & Peak Monsoons
Permission: None Required
Things To Look for: Stone temple atop the hill, stone pool
Things to be aware of: Confused villagers & Monkey menace
Things to carry: Lot of Water, Sunglasses, Cap, Food
Summary:
Channagiri or Channarayagiri, 56 kms from Bangalore, is one of the 5 major hillocks in the Nandi Ranges. The others are Nandi giri, Skanda giri, Deva giri, Dibba giri. The Nandi hills range has views across the plains and ideal for hiking. Channagiri hill is densely covered with shrubs. At the base of the hill is a Shiva Temple with a huge Nandi, built in Chola Architecture. The trek starts from a temple near Sultanpet and the track goes behind the hill and culminates at the hill top taking wholly about 2 ½ hours. A small temple and a stone water pool within a fort stands in ruins. Hardly used by trekkers, Channagiri is suitable for teams to enjoy nature at its best. Expect strong winds as you near the top. Adjacent Nandi Hills and Kalwarbeta are in full view from Channagiri. A nice drive from Bangalore and good trek makes Channagiri an ideal destination for a day trip. Do carry lots of water and beware of the naughty monkeys at the temple.
The route to Chennagiri is almost the same a Nandigiri except that we have to pass through the village of Sultanpet to get to the base of Chennagiri. This hill stands behind the Nandi Hill and is hence not visible from the main road. When asked for directions, villagers generally mislead by showing the path to the nearby Skandagiri, also known as Kalawarabetta. While the trek to Kalawarabetta starts from the Chickballapur town, the trek to Chennagiri starts from Sultanpet village itself.
It is 4398 ft. (1340 meters) above sea level. The hill is very steep and at some points is at an angle of 70+ degrees. Though the route upto the top is marked & is easier to find, we have to make our own way each time to climb down the hill. This is difficult and equally exciting. There are some stretches where we have to do a little bit of rock-climbing. We also have to carefully make way through a small forest of thorny shrubs. All in all, a very exciting trek, is not recommended for family trips.
The terrain is very diverse, rocky at some places & evergreen forest on the slopes. The forest of the hill acts as a substrate for cloud condensation and every morning the trees are covered in water. This allows for many moist forest species of plants and animals. The hills are very rich in birdlife making it a very popular location for birdwatchers and bird photographers. The evergreen forest patch on top of the hill being a favored wintering location for many migrant species of warblers, flycatchers and thrushes. The forest patch is also home for a relict population of the Nilgiri Woodpigeon. A breeding pair of Shaheen Falcon, the resident race of the Peregrine Falcon is also often seen here. The Malabar Whistling Thrush, Uropeltid snakes and Pill millipedes which are otherwise known only from the Western Ghats ranges are also found here. The hill slopes are the home of the Yellow-throated Bulbul, a species endemic to the hills of peninsular India.
When I first trekked here many years ago, this hill was not exposed to Stone Quarrying, that has been one of the long time works threatening the environment and the ecosystem. My trek to Chennagiri this year was disappointing as I saw that many parts of this beautiful rock were quarried. There is no end to the greed.
Best Regards,
Roopa Sreedhar
9886162404
Rock Climbing at Ramanagara
Ramanagaram
Location: Ramanagaram, Karnataka, India
Nearest Towns: Ramanagaram, Bidadi, Mandya, Bangalore, Mysore,
Distances: 50 km from Bangalore
Route: Bangalore -> Bidadi -> Ramanagaram
Camping Sites: The temple atop the hill, Fields in the surrounding area
Trek Length: half a day,
Activities: Rock climbing, Bouldering, Rappelling, Trekking
Permission: Permission Required for Rock climbing & Rappelling (RFO- Ramnagaram Office) Rs25 Per Person and guide charges Rs150/-
Things To Look for: Legendary Temples,
Things To Be Aware Of: Monkeys, Slippery surfaces during rain
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Best Time To Visit: All around the year except monsoons
Worst Time To Visit: Avoid monsoons
Summary: Ramanagaram is situated in a valley surrounded by (48 km from Bangalore) rocky hillocks is sub-divisional headquarters from 1884. It became a taluk headquarters in 1928, and the place was named Ramanagaram in 1949 . It is the biggest cocoon marketing centre now.
Ramanagaram Rocks lie on the right side of the Bangalore Mysore main road beyond Ramanagaram town and are visible from the main road. To reach the rocks, one could ask directions to 'Rama Devara Betta'. Beyond Ramanagaram town, you will see a diversion on right hand side. There is an arch at the entrance of this road. This leads to the base of the 'Rama Devara Betta' Hillock. Cars can be parked here. Monkeys have made this place their abode. Beware of monkey attacks. Do not carry anything in plastic covers. Do not eat while climbing the steps.
There are a few hundred steps that lead to the top of the hillock. There is a resting place & platform on top and a few temples of Rama, Seetha, Hanumantha. Another huge hillock stands tall making the top of Rama Devara Betta as its base. This is most famous rock climbing wall in Karnataka. A natural pond leads the way to this hillock. One needs to be careful while crossing the dense pathway to reach the base of the climbing wall of the hillock. It is very dangerous to swim here and must be avoided. Many a villager has lost his life by diving into this pond. Avoid trekking on rocky surfaces if it is raining very heavily.
Ramanagaram is spread on the banks of the Arkavati and the old bridge connecting the town was built by Sir Barry Close, the Resident at the Royal Court of Mysore. Hence, the place was named Closepet, during the British period. Closepet Granites are formed during the Lower Proterozoic era . They form the rock belt stretching north south direction about 50kms. This belt has potassic granites, low grade granite greenstone belts with iron manganese ores, also younger gneiss's of granitic and granodioritic composition with gold bearing schist belts.
Ramanagara gets its name from Ramagiri Hills or Ramadevara Betta. Along with Ramadevara Betta there are other hills Rama Siddeshwara betta, Shivar-amagiri, Kaakasura Betta, Kapotagiri, this hill resembles a lingam when viewed from the east, Ganesha from the west, a serpent from the north and Lord Hanuman from the south. The village has a Agrahara, on the banks of the river Arkavati. Arkeshwara Temple built in Vijayanagara style was later renovated by Krishnaraja Wodeyar III.
The popular movie of 1970, Sholay, was shot in Ramanagaram area. Nature enthusiasts & bird watchers also haunt this site as many species of birds make their home here due to the vicinity to Ranganatittu Bird sanctuary. The hills are the home for endangered species like the Yellow throated Bulbul and Long billed Vultures. Many people have spotted the sloth bears, tigers were found in the region in 1900s. Stone Quarrying has been one of the long time works threatening the environment and the ecosystem.
For a Bangalorean, it is amazing to know that River Arkavati flows all the way to Bangalore through the Nandini Layout Area of Rajaji Nagar. During time of my grandparents who settled in Rajajinagar in 1950, my uncles & aunts used to trek, walk up to the stream and bathe & have have memorable picnics. Sadly, hazards of urbanization have eaten into this river and once a beautiful stream, today it is just another gutter.
I used to enjoy looking at the tall rocks on my drives to Mysore. My first trek/trip to these rocks happened only when we organized a rock climbing/rappelling camp on these hills.
This is an internationally recognized rock-climbing site. Grades here vary from 5.8 – 5.11 American with 1 to 2 pitches. There are the climbs called Wanakkal wall (“Gabbar ki asli pasand”, “labour pain”) on the Rainbow wall (“UIAA”, “Kalia”), on the Anna Thamma Rock (“Darkness at Dawn”, “Black Diamond”).
I have always felt that rock Climbing is one of the safest adventure sports. Every climber needs to be equipped with high quality safety gears. This is a sport which is an ultimate test for our inner strength, endurance, confidence and concentration powers. Though its more of physical activity, its mental game one should win. Here, there is no 'men can do it better'. We are competing with ourselves to know how much better we can do for ourselves, how much more we can stretch our limits. Every individual test his/her own capacity and comes out feeling mentally stronger with a sense of achievement! I hope to get back to my favorite sport again.
Best Regards,
Roopa Sreedhar
9886162404
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