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New “Rishikesh Map” launched

IMG_5605Sohan Tours & Travel have commissioned and produced a new „Rishikesh Map“ which aims at giving visitors a good first orientation of the city. And as special service, this city guide is free of charge!

Apart from providing a street map with indications on all that is relevant during your stay (e.g. temples, ashrams, auto rickshaw stands, post offices, fuel stations, cash machines and a selection of shops, spas and restaurants), you get a list of important numbers such as police, hospital, pharmacy, tourist information centre, copy shop, cinema etc. Plus a section “where to go & what to do”.

Clients and tourist can get their free copy at our office in Badrinath Road (next to Kentura Plaza/opposite Shri Balak Nath Temple) or at cooperating shops and restaurants in Tapovan/Laxman Jhula.

If you have any suggestions to improve the map, please contact us.

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Please note that it is neither an official map of Rishikesh nor is it complete. And we disclaim any errors or inaccuracies. 


 

Special Offer for School Classes

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SPECIAL OFFER FOR SCHOOL CLASSES
+++ 4 days Camping Retreat in Chopta +++

We are delighted to propose our most recent initiative to teachers and school management:

Camping and trekking in beautiful Chopta – the Switzerland of India – one of the most picturesque spots in the entire Garhwal region. It is famous for its breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas and scenic landscapes – picturesque villages, rich grassland, fairytale-like forests and rich variety of flora and fauna. 

We now offer a unique and convenient package that includes transportation,
accomodation, food and a variety of activities:

Program for 4 days/3 nights:

  1. camping in the Himalayas: beautiful, lush environment and breathtaking views
  2. groups of max. 30 school children from age 14 (only boys or only girls)
  3. comfortable tents (2 sharing basis)
  4. breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, evening snacks, dinner 
  5. campfire in the evening
  6. activities: trekking, walking, volleyball, cricket, badminton, yoga, meditation
  7. visiting places of interest: Chopta, Musk Deer Sanctuary, Tungnath Mandir, Deoria Tal Lake
  8. transportation by bus
  9. our team consists of: trekking guide, cook, yoga teacher, driver
  10. local doctor on call 
  11. available 10 months: September to December, January to June


We have experience in organising excursions for students (e.g. Ganga Jungle Camping for around 100 students from Delhi) and corporate events of up to 300 people.

For further details, potential schedule and price indications, just email sohantoursandtravel@gmail.com
or call us on 9557 417765

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Related: https://sohantoursandtravel.com/chopta/

All photos © Sohan Tours & Travel.
Copying, extracting, modifying image material from this post without written permission is prohibited.


The Himalayas : Ultra HD footage

The Himalayas : First ever Ultra HD footage from above 20,000 ft

The Aerial Cinema experts at Teton Gravity Research release the first ultra HD footage of the Himalayas, shot from above 20,000 ft, with the GSS C520 system.

It is said to be the most advanced Gyro-Stabilized camera system in the world. Filmed from a helicopter with a crew flying from Kathmandu at 4,600 to 24,000 ft. on supplemental oxygen, these are some of the most stable, crisp, clear aerial shots of these mountains ever released.

Breathtakingly beautiful Himalayas. With Mount Everest and nearby peaks.

Must watch video in High Resolution with Full Brightness and Full screen.


 

Marvellous Monsoon Season


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Some people might think, there is nothing left to do in Rishikesh during the Monsoon. The rafting and camping season is over and it seems just too humid for any activities. But think again!

  1. The Rishikesh landscape is so pristine and green now! The Himalaya foothills are covered with juicy, fresh leaves and the roads are lined by glowing trees and shrubs. In the mountain area countless waterfalls, streams & springs are coming to life. Not to mention the many colourful butterflies everywhere once the sun comes out inbetween the showers.
    rihikesh july 2015
  2. • Not all days are humid and it isn’t raining every day. In fact, as it doesn’t rain all the time and temperatures are really pleasant, you can go walking or trekking.
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  3. • Fewer tourists in town means that the rather touristy places close down and you can find a good hotel or yoga school for a better rate. You can book 1:1 individual yoga sessions or benefit from the various drop-in classes at the yoga schools that haven’t closed.
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  4. • Yoga Teacher Training is possible also during the monsoon months.
    rishikesh cloudy morning sunbeams
  5. • It is the perfect season for a retreat-like detoxing programme. Take Rishikesh as a hideaway and book yourself a series of ayurvedic treatments (Panchkarma) or a holistic healing programme.
    rishikesh opne air restaurant
  6. • As the rafting season is over, you can now enjoy the more natural, original side of Ganga.
    rishikesh ganga monsoon
  7. • Over two weeks in July and August you can witness thousands of Kanwariyas, barefooted Lord Shiva devotees in saffron robes, coming for Kanwar Yatra (pilgrimage) to Haridwar and Rishikesh (visiting Neelkanth temple). Bol Bam is the festivals that runs during the monsoon month Shraawan (July/August). While most pilgrims are men, a few women also participate in Yatra. Most travel the distance on foot, a few also travel on bicycles, motor cycles, scooters, mini trucks or jeeps.
    Kanwar yatra
  8. • Book yourself a nice accommodation overlooking the Ganga valley and take time to go within, meditate and study. Rishikesh has so many ashram bookshops as well as public bookstores specialising in spiritual literature!
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  9. • Visit an ashram or temple and book a special puja or yagna (ceremony) in your name or in the name of your loved ones– or get your new mala charged.
    rishikesh tulsi mala
  10. • Book an excursion to Dehradun, capital of the state Uttarakhand: for shopping, cinema, temple visits (e.g. Shri Shirdi Sai Baba temple) or exploration of one of the largest Buddhist institutes in India (Mindrolling Monastery) and the World Peace Stupa.
    world peace stupa dehradun


Come for a weekend or several weeks – you’ll be delighted about the unique atmosphere in Rishikesh, also during the Monsoon season. 

Further information, recommendations and bookings. 
call us: +91 9557 4177 65 or: +91 9358 5748 61
or mail: sohantoursandtravel@gmail.com

rishikesh sunset monsoon


 

Click related article: What to do in Rishikesh


Photos: All rights reserved.
© Sohan Tours & Travel, Rishikesh. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of these images without written permission from Sohan Tours & Travel is prohibited.

1st International Yoga Day

The world is celebrating the 1st International Yoga Day today — an initiative by the Modi government. In fact PM Narendra Modi even participates in a yoga event at New Delhi’s majestic Rajpath (ceremonial boulevard). Around 37,000 people are expected to join this function which heads to be the world’s largest Yoga Demonstration at a single venue.

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Yoga programmes are being held at various places simultaneously across the country, and worldwide more than 190 countries are participating in the commemorations to mark the International Yoga Day. 

As we are based in Rishikesh – which is with its ca. 150 ashrams and yoga schools the world’s Yoga capital – and have experienced the benefits of Yoga ourselves, we’d like to direct you to a couple of excellent articles on Rishikesh and Yoga:

Indian Awakenings – by CNN journalist Jessica Ravitz: CLICK HERE

Unplugging in the Unofficial Capital of Yoga – by The New York Times journalist Mary Pilon: CLICK HERE

Rishikesh’s history is filled with religious and mythological anecdotes, and with its many temples and shrines it attracts tourists and devotees throughout the year. Only in 1968, when the iconic British band, The Beatles, visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram, Rishikesh and yoga became popular worldwide. 

“By proclaiming 21 June as the International Day of Yoga, the General Assembly has recognized the holistic benefits of this timeless practice and its inherent compatibility with the principles and values of the United Nations.”
Ban Ki-Moon, United Nations Secretary-General

June 21 was declared as the International Day of Yoga by the United Nations General Assembly on December 11, 2014. Yoga, a physical, mental and spiritual practice having its origin over 6000 years ago in India aims to integrate the body and the mind. 

In suggesting June 21, which is the Summer Solstice, as the International Day of Yoga, Narendra Modi had said that the date is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and has special significance in many parts of the world. From the perspective of yoga, the Summer Solstice marks the transition to Dakshinayana. The first full moon after Summer Solstice is known as Guru Poornima. According to Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, in the yogic lore, the first transmission of yoga by Shiva, the first Guru, is said to have begun on this day. Dakshinayana is also considered a time when there is natural support for those pursuing spiritual practices…

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international yoga day worldwide


Sources: United Nations, New York Times, Wikipedia
Photos: Yoga in Rishikesh by Kuni Takahashi for The New York Times, Beatles in Rishikesh (by Special Arrangement)

A Tribute to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is known as Dev Bhoomi – “The Land of the Gods” – because of the presence of a multitude of spiritual powerspots and pilgrimage destinations. 

Uttarakhand is the name of the state that was formed from the hill districts of Uttar Pradesh, India. Literally North Country or Section in Sanskrit, the name of Uttarakhand finds mention in the early Hindu scriptures as the combined region of Kedarkhand and Manaskhand. Uttarakhand was also the ancient Puranic term for the central stretch of the Indian Himalayas. Its peaks and valleys were well known in ancient times as the abode of gods and goddesses – and source of the River Ganga (or Ganges). source: Wikipedia

See more in Films about India under menu point Gallery.

Check also our page about the Garhwal Himalayas:
https://sohantoursandtravel.com/garhwal-himalaya/


 

Beautiful Chopta – India’s Switzerland

Do you love nature? If you enjoy walking, trekking or just relaxing in breathtakingly beautiful landscapes then this is the destination for you: Chopta. It is also known as the Switzerland of India and is one of the most picturesque spots in the entire Garhwal region. It is located in the Rudraprayag district of the state Uttarakhand and is famous for its views of the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas.

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Our expedition team just came back from a 4 days trip. Accompanied by a trekking guide, yoga teacher, cook and, of course, a driver, our clients – a group of 10 people from abroad – went for camping, trekking and yoga in one of India’s most scenic and unspoiled regions. 

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A burst of rain – or rather snow – was followed by bright sunshine and royal blue skies.

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Chopta is well known for its rich variety of flora and fauna. Located at an altitude of about 2700 m above sea level, Chopta enjoys perfect weather almost throughout the year. For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts this place is perfect to visit.

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4 days/3 nights is a good timeframe for first time visitors.
Best season: Apr – Jun, Sep – Nov

For further information, please contact us/click here.

More details on Chopta, click here.

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Butterfly Adventure Camp® opened!

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Stay in our beautiful campsite “Butterfly Adventure Camp®” in the Ganga valley outside Rishikesh. The camp is situated on the banks of the revered river Ganges, surrounded by breathtaking lush nature and provides all facilities and services for your comfort. 

Picturesque views of the Himalaya mountains and foothills, huge variety of flowers, shrubs and trees, colourful butterflies and the emerald coloured waters of Ganga right in front of you – ideal for cooling off. It is an idyllic place to relax and unwind – before you start or after your adventures. Facilities include a playground for Volleyball and Badminton, tree and rock climbing, a beach, space for yoga/meditation as well as a special tent for group activities (e.g. music/dance). 

All tents are in “first row” with direct Ganga views.

Our special camping weekend package includes (2 days/1 night):
+ Start from Rishikesh (only a 19 km drive)
+ Accommodation (nice new 2-bed tents, new bathrooms, Indian & Western toilets)
+ Food (lunch, evening snacks, dinner, breakfast)
+ Drinks (non-alcoholic)
+ Campfire in the evening
+ Included on second day: river rafting (or drive) back to Rishikesh
+ Optional: trekking tour or temple visit (additional charges apply)
+++ Only INR 1800 per person +++
Depending on the size of the group (12 people and more), a discount is possible.

For bookings, please call Mr Sohan Kumar on
+91 9557 4177 65 or +91 9358 5748 61

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BAC Rishikesh


butterfly adventure camp rishikeshSohan Tours & Travel Camping

Air Safari


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Air Safari involves light aircrafts like Powered Parachutes that can take off and land on short stretches of rugged terrain. It is usually well suited to explore remote and wild areas or small towns. Air safari through bush flight is a new and successful activity for the adventure lovers, exploring the natural scenic beauty in and around Rishikesh from the sky (with equipments such as para-motors, trikes, para-gliders and powered parachutes etc.) 


What is Powered Parachutes?
Powered parachute is a type of ultra-light aircraft consisting of a motor and wheels with a parachute. Powered parachute is also known as paraplane or motorized parachute and abbreviated PPC. Powered parachute flies at an average speed of 40-60 km per hour. The average operating height for powered parachute ranges between 500 to 1500 feet. PPCs have a very short take-off and landing rolls which can sometimes be less than 100 ft.

Safety
All the aircrafts used are the safest Light Sport Aircrafts (LSA). These aircrafts and machines are completely new and imported from the best companies in the world. All fleet of Light Sport Aircraft and other air sports operations are approved by The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Each flight is coordinated and controlled with the instructions of Airport Authority of India to maintain the safety and security with other flights. During all the flights, each pilot keeps regular communication with Air Traffic Controller of Jollygrant Airport Dehradun. We maintain equivalent safety in the sky as well as on the ground. Well qualified aircraft maintenance engineers are always available on site to ensure the pre flight and post flight checks and go through a systematic inspection of the flights and aircrafts to maintain high level security standards.

Trips can be booked for 10-12 minutes as well as 60-70 minutes.

For tariffs and bookings, call Mr Sohan Kumar on
+91 9557 4177 65 or +91 9358 5748 61

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The Himalayas to take home

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Would you like to have breakfast with a view on the epic Himalayas? Whether you live in India, Germany, Great Britain, Brasil, Australia or wherever, it is possible!

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Limited edition mugs
with a “window” towards the Himalayan mountain range are available now and only in our office in Rishikesh.

Packed in a cute little cardboard box, the cup will arrive safely with you at home. Perfect also as holiday souvenir for your loved ones and colleagues.

The idea is to produce regularly special edition mugs which showcase majestic Himalayan photography. 

Price per mug: INR 320.

Sohan Tours & Travel mug sept 2014