I am continuing with my earlier post on an inspiring and rejuvenating experience. Here are a few videos which will give you more information about Bir and Deer Park Institute in Himachal Pradesh.
An inspiring and rejuvenating experience
Pathankot Cantonment station at Punjab is where you alight. You then take a cab or minibus to reach Bir which is in Himachal Pradesh.
On the way, you will find streams, which will leave you spellbound.
Bir, located in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful town renowned for meditation studies and ecotourism. One can wade through tea gardens into the forests and mountains in the north. The inhabitants are friendly, relaxed Indians and Tibetan (Khampa) community. Bir Tibetan Colony came into existence around 1960, following the exile of Dalai Lama and other refugees. There are many Tibetan monasteries, center of handicrafts, Children’s Village school, Medical clinic and Deer Park Institute.
Deer Park Institute Monastery
Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche founded Deer Park Institute which is a centre for the study of classical Indian wisdom traditions. Rinpoche is a term used to honour or shows respect to the ‘precious one’-older, respected, spiritual teacher.
Breath-taking view of the surroundings.
Inside the premises of Deer Park institute, Bir
Within the monastery or Buddha Hall, in the presence of Buddha, it is peaceful for meditation. Meditation in the broader sense will include techniques for relaxation, building up internal energy and empathy, love, patience, generosity and forgiveness. Meditation has been practiced since ages in religious traditions and beliefs. It has health benefits too, easing blood pressure, depression and anxiety. It can be done in many ways, from sitting in the way Buddhist monks sit, to chanting mantras with prayer beads and closed eyes. It has a calming effect which creates inward awareness.
Roses in Deer Park Institute
A panoramic view of Deer Park Institute and monastery
Inside Deer Park institute, you can see an Indian classical performance which stays true to what the centre’s aim is the study of classical Indian wisdom traditions. Not very far from this place is Billing.
The path leading to Billing, a Paraglider’s paradise.
An international Paragliding competition held by Paragliding World Cup Association from 24-30 October.
Billing from where the paraglider’s would take-off. The launch point is approximately 2400 meters in the meadow on the top of a ridge at Billing and the landing area is in the fields near the tea garden of the Tibetan Colony in Chowgan.
A paraglider, flying over the valley. It is among the top ten flying sites in the world. It is best to fly in good weather with strong thermals and no rain. You need to keep a watch on the clouds while flying. While nearing landing, need to watch out for power lines as it becomes difficult to see from a distance.
Lama’s- Although, the term ‘Lama’, is used for a spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism but is now extended to respected monk or priest.
Chauntra monastery– Dzongasar Khyentse Rinpoche institute at Chauntra is a renowned educational institution. The institution is situated in Chauntra Town of Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, India.
The first view as you enter this monastery.
Beautiful paintings at the monastery- They are colourful and different.
Buddhist monks in training at the Chauntra monastery – The student body comprises of more than 500 monks from various locales and monasteries. The students have a complete theoretical education in Buddhist philosophy. The institute produces highly qualified professionals with primary language being Tibetan. This institute also runs an exhaustive English language program for level 10 students who can then travel and teach across physical and cultural boundaries.
Truly, it has been an inspiring and rejuvenating experience with the environment, climate, people and their place of worship, giving peace and tranquillity.
Continued….. Part -2
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5 fabulous offbeat attractions
India is a melting- pot of countless cultures, cultural ethnicities, sites. Memories that will be with you long after you have left the country. Some places in India will always remain popular than others. So, let us then explore here the fabulous offbeat attractions in India.
Bishnoi, Rajasthan– It is not very far from Jodhpur and provides a genuine experience of rural Rajasthan. People of this village worship nature and live in harmony with it. They bury their dead instead of burning them like Hindus. You can take the Bishnoi Village Safari which allows a personal encounter with the lives of Bishnois, an old clan of the land. Here you can meet the artisans like the weavers, potters and block printers. While in Jodhpur, don’t miss the blue houses in the old part of the city which often referred to as ‘the Blue City’.
Nuranang Falls in Arunachal Pradesh– These spectacular falls are the wonders of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. The falls are 100 meters high in the pristine surroundings, one place; you must not miss while in Arunachal Pradesh. They are commonly known as Bong Bong Falls which also generates electricity for the district.
Darjeeling Tea Gardens– The luscious tea gardens of Darjeeling are located in West Bengal state of India. They are not only renowned for their flavoured tea cultivation but also for their picturesque beauty. The infinite stretch of tea plants which has a tendency to vanish in the mist, transforms into a magical spell for the tourists.
Matheran, Maharashtra– Although, it is the smallest station in India but is beautiful in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 2600 feet above sea level. It is around 90 km drive from the city of Mumbai. Vehicles are not allowed here which means you get to breathe in fresh mountain air which replenishes your soul. Beautiful scenery of the natural surroundings can be experienced while on a trek to Panorama Point.
Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra– This Ghat is nestled in the magnificent peaks of Western Ghats and is a renowned weekend getaway for people of Mumbai. The best time to visit is in August and September where you feel blessed in the refreshing greenery, some gorgeous waterfalls and mist covered peaks. This place is a home for several species of birds like cranes and flamingos which is a haven for a birdwatcher.
So, explore these fabulous offbeat tourist attractions in India and cherish memories for a life time.
Bora Bora Island – a Dreamy Affair
Located in the Leeward group of Society Islands of French Polynesia, Bora Bora Islands is in close proximity to another famous destination Tahiti Islands. Known for the aqua centric luxury destination that are developed as a part of eco tourism to allure newlyweds from around the globe. The iconic over water bungalows webbed on the vast stretches of lagoon gives a feeling of fantasy come true. With many choices of activities such as water sports, treks, helicopter ride or just read your favorite author to choose from Bora Bora has something for everyone.
Your dream journey to Bora Bora starts right from the moment you enter the air space of this beautiful archipelago on board your flight. The picturesque views of Mount Otemanu on the little islet of Bora along with the blue lagoon and the white sand beach are breathtaking. If a traveler wishes to visit Bora Bora by the sea, they can arrive in style by the luxury cruise that will pamper you to your soul with their compassionate and courteous services on the cruise.
The locals have built a web of these beautiful small over water bungalows that provide all types of luxuries and amenities possibly available any tourist destination. The best part of some of this accommodations is they have glass bottoms where you can witness the crystal clear water and the rich marine life that Bora Bora is famous for.
The island is full of surprises when it comes to natural beauty and reserved habitats. Since this place of the earth is known to be explored the last on earth, the stunning landscapes are mostly untouched. Twin mountains of Mount Otemanu and Pahia are formed out of volcanic caldera and are best for treks and mountain safari on jeeps
A perfect lagoon destination, Bora Bora offers some of the most exotic and resplendent experiences of water sport. Snorkeling, Scuba diving and swimming in and around lagoons of Bora Bora are the must do activities. Many local operators can help you with the unique experiences of diving with manta rays and sharks that are easily found in this part of the world.
There are some other experiences like Aqua Safari, Aqua Biking and Keishi Lagoon tour that travelers can opt for to make most of your stay at Bora Bora.
It is one of the rare destination that is sure to make a huge dent on your pocket. No matter how hard you try to save you will be quick to realize that Bora Bora is either expensive or indescribably expensive. But this pricey destination makes sure to repay you with all of its heart. The perfect combination of ambiance and service will be hard to match in any other destination of the world and will stay in your conscience for a lifetime.
The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the dry season that runs from May to October. The rains in these islands are unpredictable and can go on for long hours. During the dry season which is also the peak season, the water stays mildly warm which is perfect for swimming. Since this is a French Polynesian country, the main language here is French, and the other language that has great influence of Bora Bora is Tahitian although most locals have a good understanding of English.
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