Page 41 - MASALA Vol8 Issue4 February-March 2017
P. 41
North Sikkim, Sikkim: Nature Untouched Manas National Park, Assam: Wildlife Diversity
There is no doubt that the areas of Sikkim are considered Manas National Park, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage-site in
to be some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Assam, is home to three natural reserves for elephants, tigers
India, with North Sikkim’s best-kept secret being Lake and flora biodiversity. Its extensive area encompasses 360
Gurudongmar. This picturesque and sacred lake, which km2 and is an idyllic escape for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
supplies striking emerald blue waters to the river Teesta, Although this park is less commercial than others in the nation,
is said to have curative properties. There are several ways it does include a jungle safari for those keen on seeing the
to make your way to the highest altitude lake in India, as infamous Manas water buffalo, endangered endemic wildlife
you can travel by train, car or air. However, be prepared such as the golden langur and roofed turtle, as well as the more
for a gruelling but scenic three to four hour journey from mainstream and notorious Bengal tiger. For those less fascinated
the nearest town of Lachen to the lake itself. Since the with animals, the biosphere reserve also has some of the most
destination is 17,100 ft above sea level, there can be exceptional vegetation worth exploring.
a lack of oxygen, so it is recommended for visitors not Best time to visit: November to April (the park is closed from June-
to stay too long at the lake. When in the area, definitely September and only partially open in October and May).
indulge in Tibetian snacks like thukpa (a noodle soup
dish) and momos. Hemis: Snow Leopard Sanctuary
Best time to visit: November to June. With tourism figures soaring for Jammu and Kashmir,
and travellers mostly flocking to more commercial
areas such as Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Srinagar, a lot of
the region remains untouched, including the unspoiled
and snowy Hemis. Just north of the Himalayas, it is
the largest protected national park in India and home
to the elusive Snow Leopard. Visitors can conveniently
make their way to Hemis from the city of Leh – a mere
50 kms or so away for a day excursion and partake
in trekking through the forests of the park. The town
is also home to the 400 year-old Hemis Monastery,
which is definitely worth a quick tour.
Best time to visit: May to September.
Masalathai.com | 41
