Kalij Pheasant is a bird of Phasianinae family.It generally found in forest area. It is a heavy body ground feeding bird which known as Galliformes in Order. It is also a game bird in Asia many years ago but now this bird is not use a s a game bird. Many years ago it spell also Kaleeje Pheasant. The Binomial Name of Kalij Pheasant is Lophura Leucomelanos. A beautiful bird found in India at Corbett National Park also found many other areas but i don't know all places. I shoot at Jim Corbett National Park during safari ride in the morning.
Subspices of Kalij Pheasant :
Total nine subspices of Kalij Pheasant
- White Crested Kalij Pheasant
- Leucomelanos - nominate at Nepal
- Black Kalij Pheasant
- Oates' Kalij Pheasant
- Lineated Pheasant
- Black Backed Kalij Pheasant
- Horsfield's Pheasant
- Williams' Kalij Pheasant
- Crawfurd's Pheasant
About Kalij Pheasant :
- Size of Male kalij pheasant is 24-30 inch and female about 20-24 inch.
- In plumage Kalij Pheasant is glossy blue back and underpart have white rump.
- Crest is white in all spices.
- In some subspices underpart and tail are white with feathers bunch.
- Female Kalij Pheasant is brownish.
- Underpart of female is black and whitish.
- Kalij Pheasant is Least Concern spices of IUCN bird list.
Jim Corbett National park is one of the best place where you can found birds, mammals, reptors and reptiles too. While i am at safari i was looking for Tigers but on the road Kalij Pheasant Pair are wondering and i don't miss the chance though they are far from me. The result of images is very low but it easily helps to identify it. A record shot for me of Kalij Pheasant at Corbett national park.
Camera Gear Used : Canon 6 D, Canon 100-400 mm lens.
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Saw scaled Vipers snake also called Carpet Vipers . Its suborder of Reptiles is serpentes. It generally found in dry regions. It found in India, Shri Lanka, Pakistan, Middle East and Africa. Most snakebite death causes by viper snakes. Genus Echis is latin translation of Greek word Viper. My first siting of Viper snake at Jessore sloth bear sanctuary Gujarat. Viper snakes are one of the spices among 4 dangerous spices of snakes in the world. It is one of the Poisonous Snakes Found In Gujarat
Interesting things About Saw scaled Vipers snake :
- Saw scaled viper are small snake.
- The largest spices length is almost below 90cm and the smallest is about 30cm.
- The head is small and short but wide pear shaped and distinct from neck.
- The venom of this viper consists mostly of hemotoxins and cytotoxins.
- Venom toxicity is different among different spices.
- They have characteristic threat display, rubbing sections of their body together to produce sizzling warning sound.
- They eat spiders, worms, scorpions, frogs, reptiles etc.
- Grey skin with black spots on body
Generally most of snakes are non poisonous but Viper snake is not. Venom of Viper snake may cause bleeding anywhere in the body and also hemorrhage. That may cause of death to humans and also animals.
Jessore sanctuary is really a good place to reptiles. Also many other snakes spices found here but i found one only. Well i was unable to watch it but one of my friend recognized it and we have a jackpot. Also at that time i have only my 50 mm lens with canon 6d. if i bring my macro then result will be sharp n clear n closer too. The skin of this viper snake is like black spot on body. Skin color is grey and dark grey or black spot on it.
Gear Used : Canon 6 D body, Canon 50 mm lens
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Singalila National Park is located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. It is at an altitude of almost 7000 ft. above sea level. I visit Singalila park on 6-12 Nov 2012 participating in Nature wanderers. It was a wonderful time to spend with the wild life photography experts Shivang Mehta(Delhi), Tejas soni(Gujarat) and Shantanu prasad(Kolkata). I joined first time in wild life photography tour and had a great experience. Geographic location of singalila national park is located in Singalila ridge. There are two rivers flowing through park. River Rammam and River Shirikhola. Sandakphu and Phalut are highest peak of west Bengal.
Trek To Sandakphu : Singalila National Park is a bird sanctuary cum wildlife sanctuary. A track route from Manebhanjan - Guiribus - Sandakphu covers Singalila park. Guiribus is a base of very rar Red Panda but we are not very lucky to catch them. Weather is awesome to guiribus.5 am sunrise u can see and at 3 pm u can see the clouds take charge as seen above picture. After 3-4 pm u cant get sunlight. Also a big problems at these places of lights. They have only solar lights. A trek to sandakphu is starts from manebhanjan. You can go by trek (by walk) or you can take a ride of Land Rover from 1960s. Rate for Land Rover is around 5000 INR for round trip from Manebhanjan to Sandakphu and extra 1000 INR for night halt per night. These price rates are in year 2012-2015 so now a days price are different.
About Sandakphu and Singalila National Park : Sandakphu is almost 11700 ft height. Such a great place it is as per location and weather. We stay at border of Nepal-India. At sandakphu you can see beautiful Himalayan Mountains Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Everest, Kumbhkarna Mountain etc. At this height you may also find snow in winter season. Morning sunrise and evening sunset scenery are really beautiful with Himalayan range. Amazing view of Mt. Kanchenjunga the highest peak of west Bengal. You can get beautiful pictures of morning golden light on Mt. Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan mountains. Also the night scene is amazing. You can see amazing night sky which full of stars and milky way. You can see milky way easily from sandakphu. You can do stargazing from Sandakphu. I had done my first star trail at sandakphu.
Amazing landscape of Himalayan mountain range with clouds. The layers of mountain range with snow on last looking awesome. Singalila national park is really good for birding, trekking and Landscape photography. Here you can take good Landscape photos of himalayan range. Also Sandakphu is good place for birds too, Here you can also take good macro shots of morning frost in winter.
The land rover car of 60's ride to sandakphu from manebhanjan. It was joy ride in land rover.
Best Season To visit Sandakphu : Amazing weather in November. Extreme cold season. You stay beyond the clouds looks like you are in heaven. Every morning some snow frost on leaf of bush. Don't go their during rainy seasons. In rainy seasons leeches are come out and they are very dangerous for us. So not in a rainy season whenever u go their just prepare urself for every challenges. For birding you can go in Febuary to June.
Wildlife At Singalila National Park : Also sandakphu trek is beautiful for birding. Bird watchers may come in blooming season for birding. Singalila national park is beautiful place for bird watchers and wildlife photographers. Lots of birds like Himalayan vulture, scarlet minivet, khalij Pheasant, Blood pheasant, Parrotbills, Tits, Warblers, Finch, Fulvetta, owls etc and also mammals like Red Panda, Leopard cat, wild boar, Yellow throated marten, barking deer, Himalayan black bear, leopard, pangolin etc.
Above image i don't know what actually it was but i guess that it was Buddhist small God and one type of praying to Lord Buddha. It was made by white sand and made like lord Buddha's Idol.
Morning frost in above image show the beauty of Singalila National Park. Also birds makes more beautiful to Singalila National park. Some birds i capture here like Dove, Jungle Owl, warblers, Tits etc.
How to reach Sandakphu : By train you can go from Kolkata overnight train to New jalpaiguri and from their you can go by car around 4-5 hours to Manebhanjan. Or you can take a flight to Bagdogra Airport and from their go by car to Manebhanjan. After Manebhanjan its up to you to go by trek or go by Range Rover Car. Car rentle is around 5000 - 6000 INR per round trip and may night charges extra 1000 INR and park fees camera fees and others are extra.
At the end the full Panorama view of Sandakphu . Panorama of Singalila National Park. Panorama Mt. Kanchenjunga.
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Mt Kanchenjunga or Mt Kangchenjunga both spellings right and whatever you say located in west Bengal India. When i was on my Singalila National park trek i visit it. It was really gesture to see Mt Kanchenjunga from own eyes. A beautiful Mountain surrounded by snow and little bit clouds looks like you are in Heaven. The view i capture makes me very happy to see first time snow mountain in my life. When i was at my last location of my trek at Sandakphu we go for birding and v had a clear mountain view of Kanchenjunga. Kanchenjunga is also spelled Kangchenjunga. Height of Mt. Kanchenjunga/Kangchenjunga is 8586 m . The view of Mt Kanchenjunga from India is amazing as you can see in photos. This Mountain range in wide angle as shown above image looks like Sleeping Budda so this mountain range also known as Sleeping Buddha Mountain Range too.
The name Kanchenjunga is derived from sanskrit kanchana ganga . Kanchana means gold and ganga is the river which flows in the region. The river shines like gold and hence the name Kanchana Ganga was given to this mountain.
Things to know About Mt. Kanchenjunga/ Mt. Kangchenjunga :
- Kanchenjunga Mountain is about 28,169 ft height and located along the Nepal-India border in the Himalayas.
- It is the third highest mountain in the world.
- It contains 5 peaks and four of them above 27,700 ft of heights.
- Kanchenjunga is also name of surrounding section of Himalayas and means THE FIVE TREASURES OF SNOWS .
- Joe Brown and George Band was the first climber of Kanchenjunga mountain on 25 may 1955.
- Kanchenjunga mountain boundry shared by Nepal, India, China and Bhutan.
- Total 5 peaks of Kanchenjunga are Kanchenjunga Main ( 28169 ft ), Kanchenjunga West ( 27904 ft ), Kanchenjunga Central ( 27828 ft ), Kanchenjunga South ( 27867 ft ), Kangbachen ( 25928 ft ).
- Kanchenjunga Main is the highest elevation of Brahmaputra River.
- There are four climbing route for Kanchenjunga among them 3 are from Nepal and one from Sikkim India.
- It is also known as Sleeping Buddha Mountain range.
When i was on a tour to Singalila National Park we have a terrific view of Kanchenjunga mountains and also other Himalayan mountains. The best view of Kanchenjunga i saw from Sandakphu located at India-Nepal border. I also saw Mt. Everest from here. Everest is on a long distance but if weather is clear you can see it very clearly.
In above picture the mountain shows in left side ( Triangle 3 peaks ) of Mt Kanchenjunga is Kumbhakarna Mountain.
Sandakphu trek is one of the beautiful trek among India and also of Himalayas. During summer lots of trekkers go for these trek and also Phalut trek. At Sandakphu you can stay a night and just see at night the sky is full of stars. I was never seen such stars in my life. A milky way you can see and it was amazing experience of star gazing at Sandakphu. Also after dark a sunrise is beautiful as enough. At 4 or 4:30 am sunrise time and we were ready to see first light of sun rays on Himalayan mountains. The color of rays are red orange color looks beautiful on snow mountain of Kanchenjunga. Thats the beauty of Himalayas.
For climbing Mt. Kanchenjunga you can go from Nepal only because Indian Government has been closed Northeastern Sikkim route of Kanchenjunga since 2000. To See Mt. Kanchenjunga from India Sandakphu is the best place. You can go to Sandakphu via Trek or via Range Rover car hire at manebhanjan village. Nearest airport is Bagdogra or you can go to Kolkata and go for overnight train from Kolkata.
Gear used : Canon 1000 D body, Canon 18-55 mm lens, Canon 55-250 mm lens.
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Krabi Thailand: Krabi is in west cost of southern Thailand. It is 783 km from Bangkok by road. Tourism is the main industry here. Krabi is facing Andaman sea . Here rainy season about six months from may to November. Overall climate is really good during November to February . Till now highest temp recorded 39 C. Lots of mini island to visit when you visit Krabi. Almost all tour operators will arrange Krabi 4 island tour. All island are really very good and worth to visit. I like Krabi in Thailand because of low croweded destination then Phuket. Peoples of Hotels and all others are very friendly here. Also travel help desk are on walking distance everywhere.
A deep blue sea and white sand u cant refuse to catch a picture.
Krabi Resorts and Hotels :
Most hotels are near to Aonang beach . Lots of options you have to choose a good hotels. There are budget hotels and expensive hotels too so plan as what you want. I suggest to choose mid range hotels because during a day time you travel on beaches and came to hotel for rest. So need clean and good rating hotel for rest. There are some good midium range hotels in Krabi which you can book. I stayed in Ibis style Krabi Hotel and its very good to stay in Krabi. Rooms and hotel very clean and staff also co operative and friendly. They also provide shuttle drop service for beaches .
Food In Krabi Thailand :
For food if you are non vegetarian then u don't need to go anywhere to find food. A good street food veg, non veg, sea food are available at walking distance. But if you are Vegetarian then find hotel near to pure veg restaurant so it will be good for you. There are also good pure vegetarian hotels in city. We find hotels near to vegetarian restaurant so we are on walking distance for lunch or Dinner.
Krabi Tour Package :
Krabi and Phuket tour made combine and takes atleast 6-7 days tour. The tour starts from Bangkok and end in Bangkok. All flights to Krabi from Bangkok. From Bangkok you have to take local flights to Krabi. ( please check your flight tickets for Local flights baggage. Sometimes local flights can not include check in baggage in your tickets they only include cabin baggage.)
Krabi Thailand Tour Itinerary :
Day 1 : Transfer from Krabi Airport to Hotel. Rest day you can enjoy nearest beach at Krabi. Also enjoy nightlife at krabi, sea food on streets.
Day 2 : Half Day Krabi 4 Island tour by Speed boat include packed lunch
Includes: packed lunch, life jacket, insurance, English-speaking guide, National park
fees. (Tour covers Pranang Beach, Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island.)
Day 3 : Transfers from Krabi Hotel to Phuket or if you are not going to Phuket then Bangkok or somewhere else.
Krabi to Phuket Distance :
Krabi to Phuket distance is around 160 km via road. It takes atleast 2-3 hours by road. You can go Krabi to phuket via ferry and it takes approx 3-4 hours. One main benifit in ferry travel from Krabi to Phuket is you can enjoy all small and major island during ferry ride. Amazing island view of krabi and Phuket during boat ride.
Krabi places to visit and 4 island tour Krabi :
- Every tour operator provides Krabi 4 island tour is for whole day where the tour operator can pick up u from your hotel at 8 am and drop to hotel at approx. 3-4 pm. It includes lunch at PODA island (packed Lunch).The 4 island tour Krabi by speed boat is really a good experience. The first stop is Pranang Beach. Here u can see princess cave. Poda island is famous for film shooting. Many Bollywood film shooting done here.
- Second stop is TUP island. here u can snorkeling with beautiful and colorful fishes.
- 3rd stop is Chicken island and the last one is PODA island where you can have your packed lunch.
- For snorkeling they can provide mask and life jacket. also during whole trip they provide water bottle , juice and snacks too. so it worth to visit.
Krabi to Bangkok Distance :
Krabi to Bangkok via road route is around 780 km approx. and it takes almost 10-11 hours drive. So it is too long distance for road travel. I suggest to take a flight for Krabi To Bangkok travel.
Nightlife In Krabi :
Well Thailand is famous for nightlife. Krabi is one of the beautiful place for nightlife. Here at night some streets are full of clubs , pubs and bars with live music. People are enjoying their life at night with drinks and music. There are also thai massage parlors in streets too so you can relax at night with Thai massage.
Krabi is in Thailand so the main language is Thai. U can talk in English too. All peoples are really good with co-operate and helpful to anyone. Currency is TBH Thai bath. Also USD you can exchange here or most of restaurant and hotels accepts cards and US Dollars.
We stay at Ibis style Krabi hotel Ao Nang area. A good location Ao Nang beach is near and hotel provide service of transport in evening to go to beach . Also in good budget too.
Thailand tour is one of the cheapest tour in foreign locations. From India its cheapest foreign destination per day cost.
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Hill Stations Of Uttarakhand
Nainital Hill Station, Uttarakhand : Nainital is one of the most popular hill station in India. It is located in Kumaon hills Uttarakhand. Nainital is about 6350 ft above from sea level.Nainital city is set in a valley. In the valley there is a lake in eye shape approx 2 miles and surrounded by mountains. From the top of mountains you can see megnificent view of Himalayas. Best time to visit Nainital is March to Jun.
Myth About Naini Lake : Naini Lake is very famous in Nainital. Here Lord Shiva performed Tandav with Parvati's Body. Meanwhile the charred body parts fell out on earth and at Naini lake the eye of Devi Sati fell thats why the lake looks like eye shape. Naini lake is one of the 51 sakti peeths. Nainital is surrounded by mountains Ayarpata, Hanibani, Devpata, Chini, Ladiya Kanta, Alma and Sher ka Danda. Among all Chini mountain is heighest around 8560 ft. Famous places to visit in Nainital are Naini Lake, Himalayan Darshan, Eco zone, Naina Peak, Pt. G B pant High altitude zoo., Nainital Yacht club, Naina Devi Temple etc.
Lakes In Nainital :
There are total 7 lakes in Nainital.
- Sattal Lake
- Bhimtal Lake
- Khurpa tal Lake
- Naukuchiatal Lake
- Kamal tal
- Garud Tal
- Sariyatal
Sattal region is very famous for birding. Sattal lake is group of seven lakes. For birding in Uttarakhand sattal is very famous. Its a bird paradise place and found lots of different spices of birds. In lakes you can enjoy boat ride for one hour. In naini lake boating experience is amazing because its a clean water and also a surrounding mountain view is amazing. Poeple of Nainital are very friendly and co operative. You can also buy warm cloths from here with wide range.
Mussoorie Hill Station, Uttarakhand
Mussoorie is the hill station located in Dehradun District. It is just 35 km from Dehradun. Mussoorie is located in Garhwal Himalayan range. Height of Mussoorie hill station is around 6575 ft. There is snow range on Northeast of Mussoorie and to the south there is a doon valley. Mussoorie is also known as The Queen of Hills.
Well the road Dehradun to Mussoorie hill station is very hilly area. Mountain seekness is common here for tourist. Till today i go through that hills twice one when i go to mussoorie hill station and second when i went to Har ki Dun. The 35 km of hill road is very dangerous and i never seen these hilly area in my life. Its a snake walk like road zig zag . For places to Mussoorie hill station you must visit Camel's Back Road, Gun Hills, Kempty Falls, Nahata Estate, Lake Mist, Mussoorie Lake, Bhatta falls,Jwalaji Temple , Lal Tibba, Mall Road etc.
You can see amazing campty fall or water fall from heights. Thats the beauty of Mussoorie. Amazing view of water fall and look at the roads a zig zag road make this hill station one of the best.
You can plan Mussoorie and Nainital Trip together. Start from Mussoorie and end to Nainital. From Mussoorie to Nainital you can visit Haridwar and also Rishikesh the holy places in between. You can stay 2-3 days to Mussoorie and also 2-3 days in Nainital to cover all major attractions.
Nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar but you can take connecting flight from Delhi for pantnagar. Also you can take Train from Delhi. For Mussoorie nearest airport is Dehradun. Also you can take train from Delhi to Dehradun too. By selecting train from Delhi that cuts your expenses. But it may long your trip duration too.
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Eastern imperial eagle is member of Aquilinae family. It is also called booted eagle. It is winter visitor in LRK Gujarat, India. It migrate form southeast Europe. It also breeds in Southeast Europe. My first siting of Eastern Imperial Eagle at LRK ( Little Rann Of Kutch ) Gujarat. There are also other migratory raptors are found here. Little rann of Kutch sanctuary is known for Raptors during winter season.
Description of Eastern Imperial Eagle :
It is large in size and dark in color. White spots on its wings and wings color is dark grey. It has long and thick neck, square tipped tail and well feathered strong legs. Generally Male are little smaller than female. In talk of Eastern Imperial Eagle size length is around 70-90 cm . Average wing spawn is about 5 to 9 ft. Eastern Imperial Eagle is a predator and also called Birds Of Prey. It generally hunts small mammals, reptiles and birds.
Some facts about Eastern Imperial Eagle :
- There may be confusion between Eastern Imperial Eagle and Golden Eagle.
- Difference is Eastern Imperial Eagle is smaller then Golden Eagle. Also Its head is larger than golden eagle.
- Eastern Imperial Eagle migrate from southeast Europe to middle east .
- Some Eastern Imperial Eagle is breed at Lake Baikal will migrate to south Asia.
- In winter Eastern Imperial Eagle found in Gujarat, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand.
- Eastern Imperial Eagle weight around 2.5 kg
- Eastern Imperial Eagle bird call is owk owk..... gok gok or kraw kraw
- Best time to catch Eastern Imperial Eagle in Gujarat is November to February.
About Little Rann Of Kutch :
Little Rann Of Kutch is very well known for Raptors and migratory birds. During winter season there are lots of migratory birds like Flamingo birds, Pelican, Goose birds etc and also Raptors, falcons, harriers etc. So that LRK is beautiful place to visit for wildlife lovers in Gujarat. Also small birds are good attractions for bird watchers of Gujarat. And the best think is the Horizons Of LRK. A beautiful sunset and sunrise views from LRK you can see a flat surface looks beautiful. Amazing wetland areas also in LRK and also outskirts of LRK.
Little rann Of kutch is about 120 km from Ahmadabad. You can go Bajana Forest Entry gate for enter in LRK. Also some outskirts village area where you can find good wetlands for birds and sunset or sunrise shooting.
Location : Little Rann of Kutch
Best time to Visit LRK : November to March
Nearest Airport is Ahmedabad.
Gear Used : Canon 1000 D with Canon 100-400 mm lens.
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Nature Trek To Jessore Sanctuary : Jessore sanctuary is located in Banaskantha District of Gujarat. The sanctuary is at the border of Gujarat and Rajasthan near Iqbalgadh. The sanctuary is famous for Sloth Bear and so its called Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary. Sanctuary is located in Jessore and Aravalli Mountain Range. In 1978 It declared as a sanctuary. The area of sanctuary is around 180 sq km.
View from Jessore Sanctuary Forest Office :
Above photos are taken from Jessore Sanctuary Forest office. There is a small dam next to Forest office of Jessore sanctuary. In summer season water level in a dam is very low. During Winter and monsoon lake is full of water. Dam holds water for Sanctuary and for agriculture to surrounding areas. The view of mountain range is belongs to Jessore Sanctuary. So the view is awesome from Forest Office of Jessore.
Trek To Kedarnath Temple At Jessore Sanctuary :
Well Jessore sanctuary is best for nature trail. Also there is a Temple Of Kedarnath Mahadev inside Sanctuary. So if you want to go for small trek in Gujarat then Jessore Sanctuary is best place. From Jessore Forest office to Kedarnath Mahadev temple is small and easy trek with stairs. You can enjoy jungle trail during this trek. Amazing view at Kedarnath temple 24 hours water in Kund of Temple no one knows where the water came from.
Flora and Fauna Jessore Sanctuary :
- Total 406 spices of plants found at Jessore sanctuary
- Among them 90 trees, 194 herbs, 33 climbers, 6 pteridophytes, 2 bryophytes, 31 grasses, 1 epiphyte and 2 fungi spices .
- There are also Leopard, Porcupine, Blue Bull, Sambar, Wild Boar and Specially Sloth bear found here.
- Jessore Sanctuary is also heaven for Bird watchers because there are more than 100 spices of birds including migratory birds found here like Grey Hornbill, Indian Pitta Hawk Eagle, Scops Owl , Rufous treepie, Asian paradise Flycatchers and many more.
- Also more than 10 reptiles spices found here like Indian Python ( endangered ), Saw scaled Viper, monitor lizard and kobra.
- Also Muggar, Turtle and Varanus found here.
Trek To Muniji Kutiya :
From Base of Jessore to Kedarnath mahadev Trek is easy and with stairs. After Kedarnath mahadev to Muniji ni Kutiya is hill climb area and its really enjoyable trek in jungle. You can found different spices of trees during trek. At Muniji Ni Kutiya early morning you can see beautiful Sunrise as i captured in above image.
How to Reach Jessore Sanctuary :
Nearest Railway station for Jessore sanctuary is Iqbalgadh around 8 km from Sanctuary. Also outstat traveller can go to Palanpur railway station which 45 km far from sanctuary and hire car from palanpur. Nearest Airport is Ahmedabad. For resident of Gujarat i prefer go by own car or go to Iqbalgadh.
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Matheran is a hill station in state of Maharashtra. It is also a smallest hill station in India. It is on a height about 2625 ft.I visit matheran on 7th july 2012 the monsoon season in india.When i visit matheran for 3 days its heavy rain during all days.But in a rainy season u can see splendid beauty of nature and green lands.
In Matheran you can not get ur car inside the area covered or main gate.You can walk through ur hotel or also a Horse (cab) u can take.Rates of horse r highly priced.Best way to go to Matheran is get train or flight to Bombay and hire taxi to matheran. Some attraction points in matheran is eco-point,Alexander point,garden etc. But all r same to my view. Overall a good hill station for 2-3 days.
During monsoon season there is also a problem to go to some points where you can get best mountains view. There is red sand road which are very slippery in monsoon and during rain. You need to carry umbrella whenever you go outside hotel. Travel by horse ride is little bit expensive. Hotels are quite good and budget rates. When i go to matheran i had not search hotels and we book hotel at when we reach matheran. If you really want to enjoy the views of hill station then go after monsoon season during october to december when you can get greenary and best weather too.
Gear Used : Canon 1000 D with Canon 18-55 mm Lens
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Republic of Maldives : Maldives is country located in Arabian Sea of Indian Ocean. From Sri Lanka and India it is located approx 700 km in southwest. Maldives land is around 1 to 1.5 meter above from sea level. Maldives Images are one of the most beautiful and unique Landscapes on Earth. Maldives is the smallest country of Asia and also world's most geographically dispersed sovereign state. India was the first country to recognized Maldives Independence.
Maldives Package :
Well Maldives tour is pretty expensive from other overseas tours. But it is really most beautiful place with blue water sea. There are 1190 total islands in Maldives. Among them only 185 island are inhabited. I visited Maldives in month of may 2019. On may June month there may be chances of start of monsoon season in Maldives. Weather is pretty good and some kind of hot in afternoon. I stay at Paradise Island Resort located in north from Male city. Resort is around 10 km distance from Maldives Airport . I get to the resort via speed boat. If you stay some far resorts then there is a sea plane transfer option also available. Sea plane transfer at Maldives Resort charges extra. Total costing of my Maldives package was around 1.3 lac for 3 px. ( 2 Adult, 1 kid 10 years) with airfare from Gujarat . I got good Landscapes Images of Maldives with sunset and also good family pictures too. Decide your package for Maldives all inclusive ( return airfare , return Transport from Male to Resort, All meals ).
About Paradise Island Resort & Spa :
Paradise Island Resort is located near to the Maldives Airport in north Male Atoll. As I am vegetarian I choose Paradise Island Resort. This resort provide good vegetarian food. The island resort surrounded by white sand beaches and its own lagoon. I booked superior beach bangalow Paradise island resort. Room has simple decor and beach facing and beach connected on room other side. Also room has open air shower, TV, AC and wi-fi facilities. Some villa bangalows has private pool and varandas too. Water villas in Maldives as shown in above image are more expensive in any resorts. In Paradise Island Resorts total 6 restaurants which serves Italian and Japanese . Also 5 bars , Gym, Disco and a spa. They also provide cycle for rent 5$ per day per cycle. Half our canoe is include in my package. Other water activities are too expensive. My package Include breakfast - Lunch - Dinner. So overall its good resort to stay in Maldives.
Maldives Beach and water activities:
Maldives beaches are mostly white sand beach. Clean blue water so you cans see fishes clear in the water. Snorkeling is very good at resort in a shallow water. You can see different types of fishes and enjoy swimming too in a blue water sea. Cost of snorkeling in Maldives is around 8$ per day per person. Also there are lots of water activities to do at extra cost like Jetski (80$) , Glass boat trip (50$), Dolphin Safari ( 71 $ ) etc. Cost are per person and limited time.
Maldives for Honeymoon Couples :
Maldives is best place for honeymoon couples. A romantic beach destination on a island is really cool. For honeymoon couples Maldives is good because there are not more crowed and couples enjoy their alone as honeymoon couples want. Maldives water villas are best for honeymoon couples. Also couples had good memory of their honeymoon photos. Beautiful weather and beautiful sunset and sunrise photography makes honeymoon perfect. Also resort provide couple photography album at extra charges. They had good locations and also good lights for photography so it worthy. A romantic sunset on a white sand beach is really awesome experience. Well i went with my wife and 10 years kid so it was not my honeymoon trip but i really enjoy the place where i can just relax at evening with a drink on a beach and enjoy sunset. Kids have also some good fun in a sand and fishes at evening in a sea.
About Maldives Country :
- Maldives capital is Male city.
- Dhivehi and English languages spoken here.
- Religion is Sunni Islam. Total population of Maldives is around 3,75,000 assuming .
- Maldives currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa.
- For Indian visit to Maldives only stamping on Immigration. No visa required as both country developed their diplomatic relations.
- Maldives currency to INR ..... 1 Maldivian Rufiyaa = 4.77 INR ( rate as on 2021 May ). You can also check on https://www.xe.com/ anytime any currency rates.
- US dollar is also accepted here. Indian Rupees are not accepted in Maldives.
- Calling code for Maldives is +960.
- Maldives International Airport is Velana International Airport or Male International Airport at Male city.
- Best time to visit Maldives November to April.
Above image is not moon it looks like a moon but it doesn't. I capture sun image with rays on water of beach. I take a darker shot just show the rays on beach water so i done it black and white in post processing.
Accentor is a small bird of prunellidae family. In India it is generally found in East Sikkim area. It built its nest low in a bush. When i was on a trip to Singalila National Park. I found at sandakphu area. Sandakphu is high altitude place in Singalila National Park located in West Bengal. From here you can see Mt. Kanchenjunga very clear which is highest peak of West Bengal. Lots of Birds here. To visit Singalila Park November to February you can found lots of snow and good landscapes too with snow on Mt Kanchenjunga. Also if you are going for birding you can visit March to May/June Month is the best . It is very cold weather during winter November to February at Singalila National park.
About Alpine Accentor Bird :
- Alpine Accentor bird is robin size bird. Length of bird is around 15 -17 cm.
- Bird just like similar to house sparrow in color with brown back streaked.
- Adult Alpine Accentor have red brown spotting on underparts
- Also adult have grey head too.
- In Asia Accentor found at 2000 m above height. Specially at Himalayas.
- It build nest in bush.
- It laying 3-4 plain (not spotted) eggs of sky blue color.
Singalila National Park :
Singalila national park is located in West Bengal. There are lots of birds in this sanctuary. Also its good for trekking at Sandakphu. From here you can see Mt. Kanchenjunga easily and very closely. Also a beautiful Himalayan Mountain range with snow. Amazing weather very cold in winter and moderate in summer. Summer season is the best for birding at sandakphu.
Alpine Accentor bird Binominal Name is Prunella Collaris . Total 9 subspices are recognised of Alpine Accentor bird.
Gear used : Canon 1000 D, Canon 55-250 mm Lens.
Road To Heaven is named to the road from Khavda to Dholavira in Kutch Gujarat. The road is so wonderful and scenery so it known as Road to Heaven . Khavda to Dholavira distance is around 58km but from Khavda there is a single line narrow road passes through small villages around 15-20 km approx. The main road starts after it and it is around 30-35 km approx. strait to Dholavira. Road is under constriction but almost 70-80% work done. The road heading to the city of Harappan Civilization Dholavira which is one of the largest site of Harappan Civilization and Indus valley Civilization.
Kutch is a largest district of Gujarat and also of India. Main City or Headquarter of Kutch District is Bhuj. Kutch is famous for White Desert or White Rann. In Every winter season from December to February celebrate “ Rann Utsav “ to attract foreigners and also locals. Tent City made in white desert to stay and also cultural programs arranged in it. The main Rann Utsav held in Dhordo of Kutch.
After visit White desert people also visit Dholavira which is nearest destination from Dhordo and also Kalo Dungar in between. From Dhordo you will have to go Khavda first and then from Khavda to Dholavira which is connected through “ Road To Heaven “. Dholavira is located at Khadir Bet. Khadir bet is separated because after monsoon the water filled outer side of bet. So the Road To Heaven is the way to connect Khadir bet to main city Bhuj.
About Road To Heaven Dholavira / Road to Heaven in Kutch :
- · It connected from Khavda to Dholavira.
- · Road to heaven distance around 30-35 km.
- · After monsoon the rain water on the both side of the road. You can see beautiful Greater Flamingo birds in between. Water level is low but muddy.
- · After winter in January –February the water on both side of the road is evaporated and turn into salt. Not all water but some areas during the road.
- · Water on the both side of the road or Salt/ white layer on both side of the road make the beauty of the road and that’s why it name as “ Road To Heaven “
- · When you are on the road there is hardly some traffic you face the open road with both side water or salt at morning or evening make the scenery like a Heaven.
I must suggest to visit Road To Heaven in Kutch while you visit Kutch. Also Visit Dholavira which is one of the largest Harappan Civilization site.
Places to visit near Road To Heaven :
Dholavira, Kalo Dungar, Dhordo, White Desert
Places to Visit near Bhuj : White Desert , Kadiya dhro, Chhatardi, Mandvi beach, Vijay vilas palace, Bhujyo Dungar, Smriti Van, Vande matram memorial
Camera Used : Canon 80D, Canon 6D, DJI Mavic Air2
It is the largest species of Flamingo bird family and also a most widespread species of flamingo family.It is found in India ,south east , middle east and Africa. It is migratory bird. They also breed in India. In Gujarat they breed in Rann Of Kutch , Little Rann of Kutch also found in Thol Bird Sanctuary. I often visit Thol sanctuary so got good shots of them. Best time for shoot them is may-Jun at Thol bird sanctuary bcz of water level is too low . It is been recorded that some flamingo birds are resident in Gujarat at many places like LRK, Khijadia sanctuary, Nalsarovar and Thol Sanctuary. They also breed here and stay for all seasons. So you can find greater flamingo birds in all seasons in Gujarat at many places.
Flamingo bird facts and description :
- Greater flamingo bird is the largest living spices of flamingo.
- Greater flamingo has no subspices.
- Flamingo color most of pinkish white in plumage. Wings are red and feathers are black in end.
- Greater Flamingo bird call is like honking.
- The average lifespan of flamingo bird is 30-40 years.
- Main Difference between Greater flamingo and lesser flamingo is height . Lesser flamingo is shorter than greater flamingo. Also Greater flamingo has pale pink bill and black tip. In other case lesser flamingo has dark crimson bill. Lesser flamingo is also more red in color than greater flamingos.
Greater Flamingo birds In Thol Lake : Thol sanctuary is often i visit. Flamingo birds are stay here all seasons. I got good numbers of Greater flamingo and lesser flamingo bird images in a group when i visit Thol. This is my best time with flamingos. Also i got some beautiful pictures of flamingo birds with group and also in duo with some masti. Flamingos looks very good in frame bcz of their color. Thol lake is good place for birders because more than 150 birds spices found here. Also some mammals like Blue bull and black buck also found here. Lots of water birds and tree birds found here. Also sanctuary is not so big so you can find all birds in around 6 sqkm area. Best time to visit thol lake is November to March. All migratory birds are visit in winter so that is best time. Early morning is best for birders.
Timing And Fees of Thol Sanctuary :
Thol Sanctuary open at 6 AM in morning and close at around 5 PM
Fees of Thol Sanctuary is 50 INR per person and camera fees are 200 INR. Car fees are 500 INR.
Weekend fees may change that actually i don't know about it.
Two flamingos with little egret in between of them with down head all. The images of flamingo bird making a good frame. Because of its color flamingo birds images are very attractive and also their grouping make a perfect frame of flamingo bird picture.
A morning pared time for flamingo birds. A beautiful Greater flamingo birds are in a raw make image nice and show their unity.
Perfact wingspan of Flamingo bird looks great. Pink Wings make image more attractive.
Solo Greater flamingo bird
Some masti time for two flamingo birds .
Above image shows the discipline of Flamingo Bird and looks like a morning pared they are doing .
https://youtu.be/9dVBrR9NSOo
A group of Flamingo Birds at Thol Lake make your frame awesome.
Location : Thol Lake, Gujarat
Thol lake is just 25 km approx. from Ahmedabad. You can visit one day for Thol lake is enough. Also you can find another migratory birds like pelicans , bar headed goose, river tern and many more resident spices.
Ahmedabad to Thol lake distance about 25km
Thol bird sanctuary is located in Kadi Taluka in Mehsana District near sanand Gujarat. It is an artificial lake located near village Thol. In 1912 thol lake was built and it was declared as a Sanctuary in 1988. The main use of lake is use of water for irrigation. The Thol Bird Sanctuary or a Thol lake wildlife Sanctuary India is a habitat of more than 150 spices of birds. Also it is famous for migratory birds Flamingos and Sarus Crane which breeds here.
About Thol Lake / Thol Bird Sanctuary
Thol lake is located near Thol village and its area around 38000 acres. Lake faces all season winter , summer and monsoon. During winter temperature goes to 8 degree and in summer temperature goes to 43 degree. Thol lake is under control of Forest and Irrigation department of Gujarat. Thol lake water storage capacity is around 84 million cubic meters. Thol wildlife sanctuary is declared as Eco Sensitive Zone .
Flora and Fauna Thol Sanctuary :
Thol lake has many vegetation plants like Zizyphus, Acacia nilotica, Ficus, Capparis, Azadirachta indica etc. There are also some mix flora of Marshy and Aquatic plants reported in Thol Lake.
Thol lake is protected area and it is very good habitat for water birds. In thol bird sanctuary there are more than 150 spices of birds found . Among these more than 60 % of birds are water birds. Flamingo bird is most prominent bird of Thol Lake. Also Sarus Crane nest in large number here.
Famous Migratory Birds of Thol Lake
• Flamingos
• Sarus Crane
• Great White Pelican
• Mallards
• Bar Headed Geese , Grey Headed Geese
• Waterfowl
There are also some spices reported here like Dalmatian Pelican, Indian Skimmer, Greater Spotted Eagle, Indian Vulture and white rumped Vulture etc. In Mammals Bluebull, Blackbuck and Golden jackal reported here.
Thol Lake Timing and Fees :
Thol lake open everyday at 6 AM in morning and close at 5.30 PM in evening. Entry fees for Thol Lake or Thol sanctuary is 50 INR for per person. Also Camera fees extra at 200 INR and if you go via car then car fees also 500 INR. Foreigner fees are 10 $ per person.
Best Time to Visit Thol Sanctuary / Thol Lake :
Best time early morning for Thol Lake. In winter if you go before sunrise you can see Twilight sky amazing with lake shore and birds sound .During all season Thol lake has its own beauty. Every season you can visit at Thol Lake. But mostly during winter from November to March season is best for Thol Sanctuary visit. Because during winter lots of Migratory birds came here and stay for long time so for birding winter season is best at Thol Lake. Also during summer some of birds stays here like flamingos and pelicans, geese etc. So you can also see them in summer too. Also during summer water level of lake is low so may be the birds you can get in deep or sometimes closer. During monsoon most people don’t visit but if you like macro photography then you must visit Thol lake in monsoon. You can get some excellent macro subjects like waterdrops , Spiders, Insects etc.
What to do and What not to do in Thol Lake / Keep in mind while visiting sanctuary in India :
• Keep silence in sanctuary
• Maintain discipline
• Keep sanctuary clean
• Do not throw plastic waste anywhere in sanctuary
• Protect wildlife
• Observe birds, mammals etc and protect them and identify them
• Follow rules of wildlife protection act -1972
• Don’t disturb birds and animals
• Don’t enter in sanctuary with liquor and inflammable objects
• Don’t make loud noice.
• Enter in sanctuary with permit only and keep receipt till you leave sanctuary
• Don’t feed birds and animals
Where to Stay near Thol Lake :
Well near to Thol Lake there are not good places to stay at night but you can go near to destinations like Kadi, Kalol or Gandhinagar , Ahmedabad where you can get good places to stay at night. Nearest I suggest Kalol around 15-18 km or you can go Ahmedabad around 25 km.
Places to Visit near Thol Lake :
If you are staying at Ahmedabad then go for Ahmedabad Darshan , Pol area of Ahmedabad and Adalaj Ni Vav ( Heritage places ) etc. Also go for fast food test at night at Manek Chauk and SindhuBhavan road there are lots of option for food lovers like Urban Chauk, Freezbee etc.
If you stay at Gandhinagar then visit Mahatma Mandir at Gandhinagar, Sarita udyan , Akshardham Temple etc.
I would suggest Modhera Sun Temple if you had some more time which is around 100km from Ahmedabad. For bird lovers and bird photographer I would suggest visit Little ran of Kutch (LRK) during Winter season, Pariej Lake, Indroda park Gandhinagar, Jessore Sanctuary Banaskantha etc.
How to Reach Thol Sanctuary :
Nearest airport is Ahmedabad and from Ahmedabad thol lake distance is around 30-40 km
Also for Railway station is Ahmedabad because you can get all frequency and destinations from Ahmedabad railway station.
Bahucharaji or Becharaji is located in Mehsana district Gujarat. It is a Hindu Temple of Hindu Goddess Bahuchara Mata.Bahucharaji Temple is in Bahucharaji town near shankhalpur village Mehsana. Bahucharaji Temple is in center of town. Bahucharaji temple managed by State Government. Ma Devi Bahucharaji is worshipped here as Goddess Bala Tripura Sundari.
Story of Bahucharaji temple
As per old people says Dandasur demon was stayed near Becharaji and won Patallok, Mrutyulok and Devloka all three lokas. The Devil has boon from Lord Shiva that a godeess appeared against him in small girl form. All 3 lokas Devas went to Goddess Parambaa to save them from demon. The Bahuchar mata appeared in form of small girl for fist time at Varakhadi tree . So bahuchar mata known as Bala Bahuchara Mata. Goddess killed demon with Trishul and bought peace for people of earth.
- Main vehicle of Bahuchar Mata is cock.
- Bala Yantra of Crystle and encased In gold is worshipped at temple.
- Bahuchar Mata carries sward on top right hand, Abhay mudra on bottom right, a text of scriptures on top left and trident on bottom left.
- In my family we believed that new born male child first time hair removed ( Mundan ) after 1 year in temple.
- It is also believed that any new child don’t speak properly then bought here and on his behalf cock donated to Mata and in few days child can speak properly.
- All over from India devotee came here and pray for blessing of Goddess. On purnima ( full moon ) day is special for devotees. On Chaitri Poonam 5 days fair arranged near the Temple and in city.
Where to Stay in Bahucharaji or Bechraji :
There are lots of Dharamshala , Hotels, Guest Houses in Bahucharaji. All places are in good rate available. People can also go to Mehsana , Shankhalpur for stay . Also people can go to Modhera Sun Temple for visit.
Bahucharaji Mata Temple Darshan Timing :
Bahucharaji Mata temple darshan timing is from 5.30 AM to 10 PM .
Nearest Airport : Ahmedabad
District : Mehsana
Pincode of Bechraji : 384213