Lonar Meteorite Crater

If you like off-beat adventures, travel to Lonar to explore a prehistoric natural wonder. About 50,000 years ago, a meteorite slammed into the earth here, leaving behind a massive crater, 2km across and 170m deep. In scientific jargon, it’s the only hypervelocity natural impact crater in basaltic rock in the world. Inlay terms, it’s as tranquil and relaxing a spot as you could hope to find, with a shallow green lake at its base and wilderness all around. 

The lake water is supposedly alkaline and excellent for the skin. Scientists think that the meteorite is still embedded about 600m below the southeastern rim of the crater. The crater’s edge is home to several Hindu temples as well as wildlife, including langurs, peacocks, deer, and an array of birds. MTDC Tourist Complex has a prime location just across the road from the crater, and offers eight rooms of relatively good value, considering the location. 

Keoladeo Ghana Nationa Park India

If you like birding to be ridiculously easy, there may be no better place in the world for you than the Keoladeo Ghana National Park in northern India. Usually, known simply as Bharatpur, this site is small (only 29 sq km in area), flat, ease of access, and it simply teems with birds for most of the year. Over 400 species have been recorded here, and it is not at all unusual to see 150 in a single day (in the winter). Not much effort is required to observe the masses of herons, ducks, cormorants, and storks on the flooded lakes (jheels); they are there in front of you, and often allow a close approach. Your only problem is to identify them all.

Keoladeo Ghana lies on the Gangetic Plain 180 km south of Delhi and 60 km west of Agra. It is an ‘island’ in a vast flat area of cultivation and its continued existence in such a populous region is a quirk of history. It seems that there were always marshes in the area but in 1890 the Maharajah of Bharatpur, who was keen on duck shooting, extended and enclosed the local wetland by setting up a network of canals and earthen embankments, known as bunds. He henceforth used his newly created reserve for ‘sport’, inviting various visitors and dignitaries to join him on regular massacres of the wildfowl. But happily, despite the persecution, the birds kept coming, and by the 1960s they were afforded protection by the government of India.

Then, largely thanks to pressure from the great Indian conservationist Dr Salim Ali, the national park was declared in 1982. The most obvious inhabitants of Bharatpur are the waterbirds, which can be divided into residents and migrants. The monsoon season lasts from July to September, and this encourages many tree-nesting species to set up colonies in the branches of the acacias that grow on islands within the jheels. Throughout the reserve some 50,000 pairs of large water birds nest, including Little and Indian Cormorants, Darter, four species of egret, including Intermediate Egret, Black-crowned Night-Heron, Grey Heron, Painted and Black-necked Storks, Asian Openbill, Black-headed Ibis and Eurasian Spoonbill. Many colonies are mixed, allowing superb comparisons of all the species.

They are so easy to see and so close that you have to pinch yourself to realize you are not in a safari park or zoo. In the surrounding marshes, there are dozens of other colorful or interesting breeding birds to see. These include the delightful long-toed Pheasant-tailed and Bronze-winged Jacanas, which trot energetically over the emergent vegetation, plus ubiquitous Indian Pond Herons, White-breasted Waterhens and Purple Swamp-hens. Sarus Cranes walk sedately over the marshes, towering over everything else, while less obvious ‘birders’ birds’ well worth searching for include the weird Greater Painted Snipe and the highly secretive Black Bittern.

From October onwards these resident species are joined by many thousands of wintering Palearctic water birds. One of the commonest, the Barheaded Goose comes here after an epic flight that takes it over the peaks of the Himalayas; it has been recorded flying at 9,000–10,000 m altitude, and studies have shown that it has four types of hemoglobin in its blood, each working at different partial pressures of oxygen. Alongside it, many of the ducks sharing the jheels in winter will be familiar to visitors from Europe or North America, and include large numbers of Gadwalls, Northern Pintails, Eurasian Teals and Northern Shovelers.

However, mixed in among them are good numbers of more typically Asian species, including the resident Indian Spot-billed Duck, Lesser Whistling Duck and Cotton Pygmy Goose. Bharatpur is also famous for its birds of prey and, again, these can be divided into residents and winter visitors. One of the most important of the former is the sedentary Indian Spotted Eagle, which is now a very rare bird indeed; there is usually one pair on the reserve. 

The crisis among Indian vultures has hit here as everywhere; the White-rumped and Indian have disappeared, while the more solitary Redheaded Vulture still hangs on. Winter is the best time for birds of prey, when dozens may come to Bharatpur from Eurasia to spend the season harassing the water birds. One of the most numerous, often numbering 30 or more, is the Greater Spotted Eagle, a bird that can be extremely difficult to find in its breeding haunts: Bharatpur is probably the best place in the world to see it.

There can also be a few Eastern Imperial, Steppe and Bonelli’s Eagles on-site, all of which loaf about in the trees for hours on end, causing identification headaches for visiting birders. Less tricky are the numerous Western Marsh Harriers, and the snake-eating Short-toed Eagle, which is found around the drier parts of the reserve. 

Once you have got to grips with the larger birds you begin to notice that there are plenty of small passerines around as well. Not content with being fantastic for waterbirds and raptors, Bharatpur in winter is a superb place for catching up with mouthwatering migrants from northern and central Asia. One of the best places is known as ‘The Nursery’, close to the barrier where you present your tickets, where there are scattered bushes and trees.

Such gems as Bluethroat, Siberian Rubythroat and Red-breasted and Taiga Flycatchers can be found here, along with Tickell’s and Orange-headed Thrushes. If all these birds are too easy for you, a fine range of difficult wintering warblers will tax your skills to the full: these include Sykes’s, Dusky, Hume’s Leaf, Blyth’s Reed, and Paddyfield Warblers, together with two specialties, Smoky Warbler and Brooks’s Leaf Warbler. 

In short, there is something for everyone here, whatever their birding ability and the sheer number of birds can be almost overwhelming. You could easily spend a month at this marvelous reserve and still be seeing new species right to the end. In recent years Bharatpur has suffered a major water shortage, mainly caused by its source of water being siphoned off for other uses, leading to fears that it would become degraded and lose its value as a reserve. Hopefully, this crisis can be remedied so that Bharatpur can continue to be flushed with water and birds. 

Gilbert Hill - Mumbai, India

Gilbert Hill is a 200 ft (61 m) monolith column of black basalt rock in the middle of Andheri, in Mumbai, the state of Maharashtra, India. The rock has a sheer vertical face and was formed when molten lava was squeezed out of the Earth's clefts somewhere around 65 million years ago. During that era, molten lava had spread around most of the Indian states of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, covering an area of 19,000 sq mi. Gilbert is made entirely of black basalt made during the volcanic lave spread during the Mesozoic era. Gilbert Hill is a well-kept secret in the middle of urban sprawl, surrounded by trees and vegetation.

The volcanic eruptions were also responsible for the destruction of plant and animal life during that era. Geologist believes, this unique geological occurrence was the remnant of a ridge and had clusters of vertical columns in nearby Jogeshwari which were quarried off two decades ago. These vertical columns are akin to the Devils Tower in Wyoming, and the Devils Postpile in eastern California, the USA due to similarities in its sheer rock face and basalt-rock composition.

In 192, the Central Government declared Gilbert Hill a National Park under the Forest Act. In 2007, after years of lobbying by geologists, the hill was declared a Grade II heritage structure by the MCGM (Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai), and all quarrying and other activities around the monument were prohibited. Gilbert Hill has faced severe erosion problems too in recent times.

The Hindu Temples are set at the atop of the rock column, and a small garden. You can access by a steep staircase carved into the rock. Gilbert hill offers a panoramic 360-degree view of suburban Mumbai. Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation is doing efforts to make the Gilbert Hill into a tourist attraction and include it as a stop on a tour of Mumbai and protected it from quarrying and housing development.

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Lonar Lake, India

Lonar is one of Maharashtra’s best-kept secrets. Lonar Lake is incredibly 50,000 years old lake. Lonar Lake is also called Lonar Crater is the youngest and best preserved impact crater formed in basalt rock and is the only of its kind on earth. The crater was formed fifty-two thousand years ago, when a gigantic meteor crashed into the earth at an estimated speed of 90,000 km per hour. Lonar Crater has a mean diameter of 3,900 ft and is about 449 ft below the crater rim, and meteor crater rim is about 1.8 KM in diameter.

The Lake is mainly fed by Dhara and Sita Nahani streams. The Lonar Crater is protected as a geological landmark and authorities have recognized the role of the historical and archaeological heritage in the lake. The lake water contains various salts or sodas, and during dry weather when evaporation lessens the water level, large quantities of soda are collected. The Lonar crater has an oval shape and its meteorite impact came from the east, at an angle of 35 to 40 degrees. The saline deposits obtained from the lake are rather of an exceptional nature.

The salts collected from this lake vary in their nature and composition and from their-appearance are effortlessly separated by men accustomed to handling them. The Lonar Lake is home to a horde of algae and plankton species that thrive in its unusual ecosystem and give the water its vibrant color. Most tourists come to nearby Aurangabad to visit the Ajanta and Ellora UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but never make it as far as Lonar.

Over time, the jungle took over the deep depression, and a perennial stream transformed the crater into a tranquil, emerald green lake. Today, the forest-fringed lake is located in the Buldhana District of Maharashtra. The lake was initially believed to be of volcanic origin, but now it is recognized as an impact crater created by the hypervelocity impact of either a comet or an asteroid.  The lake water is polluted by using of fertilizers, pesticides and toxic material in the agricultural field. 

The lake has wildlife sanctuary with a unique ecology that is vastly different from the surrounding flat landscape. Its water supports micro-organisms rarely found elsewhere on earth while its surroundings are peppered with fragments of unique minerals like maskelynite. The local peoples are destroying Lake Eco system, by bathing, washing clothes and drinking water by cattle’s and disposing detergents in them. Deforestation and excavation also carried out here and cattle grazing inside near him create fecal pollution cause environmental damage to nearby land.

Marauding pilgrims and increasing pollution is disturbing its substantial flora and fauna with about 100 resident and migratory birds. Furthermore lonar lake ecosystem is being damaged because of the sewage dump in the lake. Also commercial activities, including illegal construction, within the vicinity of lake has damaged the lake's natural topography. There is a small circular depression at a distance of around 700m from the main lake, believed to be caused by a splinter of the meteor that hit the ground to also make a crater.

The Lonar Lake is also home to thousands of peafowls, chinkara and gazelles. The natural lake is a heaven for a many species of plant and animal life. The migratory and resident birds such as black-winged stilts, grebes, shelducks, shovellers, teals, herons, red-wattled lapwings, blue jays, baya weavers, parakeet hoopoes, larks, tailorbirds, magpies, robins and swallows are found on the lake. Also among reptiles, the monitor lizard is reported to be the most prominent. Lonar Lake is one of the most exclusive landmarks on the world. Hence, it is slightly out of the way, but totally worth it.

Before you go there, keep in mind that March till May are the hottest months in Maharashtra, and temperatures can climb upwards of 40°C. Occasional. However monsoons normally starts in June and can go on up to September. The heavy rainfall took place in July. Hence, winter starts from Oct till Feb is mild, with clear skies, gentle breezes and average daytime temperatures that range between 12-25°C. The views of this stunning Crater Lake, the only one of its kind in the world, are bound to give wings to your imagination.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hide and Seek Beach: The Miracles of Nature in Odisha

This world is full of so many places to discover, that even a lifetime of travelling will not be sufficient for it. An Indian strange Chandipur beach, located in the Balasore district of Odisha, is a place waiting to be discovered. This is called the Hide and Seek Beach, actually a miracle of nature. Hide and Seek beach always spellbound us by its lovely and unusual creations. Due to its rare and exclusive phenomenon, it is globally popularized as ‘vanishing sea’. Apart from this, there are other amazing features which add to its exceptionality.

One place which is every person would look at through his own perspective, and that's what discovery really means. A phenomenon that is rarely seen in any other part of the world, the sea here recedes by as much as 5KM every day.  Odisha, fondly called the “Soul of India”, is highly rich in its culture and heritage, making it one of the most visited tourist destinations in India. Also, every year in the month of February, a beach festival takes place here to setting folk dance, art, and culture of the State. The beach is also home to biodiversity and supports a wide variety of sea animals.

Well, believe us or not, the beach is not a constantly existing feature on the map. At least it doesn't look the same every time. Is it surprised? Hence, whenever you are at the Chandipur beach, you can actually see the sea disappear in front of your eyes, and come back again and see the area of sand dunes. So, when you are at the beach during the ebb, you can see the water receding massively from the beach and then coming back during the high tide in order to fill up the emptiness. This Hide and Seek of the sea comes to play with you twice a day. However, the locals are fully aware of the time of the high and low tides.

This is the reason why the beach is home to a host of unique species, i.e., horseshoe crab and the red crab. It’s a surreal experience to watch the sea disappear before your eyes and walked on the exposed sea bed. One can find pearls, seashells, crabs and tiny fish on the shore during the times of low tide. This is not something that every other beach offers. The sight of Casuarina trees and sand dunes also call for a visual treat. The ultimate golden colored sea beach has gorgeous casuarina trees and the solitary sand dunes which make the ambiance over there more peaceful and soothing.

However, travelers can visit this dramatic beach anytime. The best time according to the locals is from November to March. Hide and Seek Beach is in depth feel of magic of nature, to feel the wet soft sand under your feet and live up the unforgettable experience. A trip to Hide and Seek Beach will leave you mesmerized on how beautiful and interesting place in India. If you’re visiting beach in the afternoon, then don't miss the spectacular sunset here. Source: CP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur Rajasthan

Mehrangarh Fort is also known as “Mehran Fort” located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The foundation of the Mehran fort was decided on 12 May 1459 by Rao Jodha on a rocky hill 9KM to the south of Mandore. Rao Jodha, previously known as “Marwar” founded Jodhpur in 1459. He was one of Ranmal's 24 sons and became the 15th Rathore ruler. The fort rising perpendicular and impregnable from a rocky hill that itself one of the most magnificent forts in India. Still run by the Jodhpur royal family, Mehrangarh is packed with rich history and legends.

Mehrangarh though the fortress was originally started in 1459 by Rao Jodha, founder of Jodhpur, most of the fort which stands nowadays dates from the period of Jaswant Singh of Marwar (1638–78). The fort is located at the centre of the city spreading over 5 kilometers on top of a high hill. Its walls, which are up to 118 feet high and 69 feet wide, protect some of the most gorgeous and historic palaces in Rajasthan. Further, the striking silhouette of the Mehrangarh fort against the stunning clouds at Jodhpur offers great view.

Mehrangarh Fort built around 1460, situated 410 feet above the city and is enclosed by striking thick walls. Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India, as inside and its boundaries are numerous palaces famous for their intricate carvings and extensive courtyards. There’s a museum in Mehrangarh Fort, one of most admired stocked museums in Rajasthan.  In one section of museum, selection of old royal palanquins, including the elaborate domed gilt Mahadol palanquin which was won in a battle from the Governor of Gujarat in 1730. Moreover, the museum exhibits the heritage of the Rathores in arms, costumes, paintings and decorated period. Moreover, on the left side of fort, a chhatri of Kirat Singh Soda, a brave solider who fell on the spot defending the Mehrangarh Fort.?

Mehrangarh Fort holds the pride of place in Jodhpur because of its impressive architecture and the diverse history accompanying with it. Moreover, entry to the fort is gained through a series of gates, thus there are seven famous gates, among them the most famous are “jayapol” built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806, “Fattehpol” built by Maharaja Ajit Singh built to celebrate the victory over Mughals in 1707, “Dedh Kamgra Pol” which still bears the scars of bombardment by cannonballs, and “Loha Pol”, which is the final gate into the main part of the fort complex. The imprints of the impact of cannonballs fired by attacking armies of Jaipur can still be seen on the second gate.

Within the fort there are several dazzlingly crafted and decorated palaces. These include Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesha Mahal, Sileh Khana, Daulat Khana, Rang Mahal, Chandan Mahal and Maan Vilas are exquisite splendors. The fort museum houses a rare collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. The ramparts of the fort house preserved old cannon, and provided a breath-taking view of the city.

The fort also encloses the Mehrangarh Fort Museum, exhibits all of the historical things, like the royal palanquins, miniature paintings, furniture, and historic armory etc. Mahadol, the Palanquin is mostly covered with gold and silver embossed sheets, which were fastened onto the elephant's back. Palanquins were most popular means of travel and circumambulation for the ladies of the nobility up to the second quarter of the 20th century. They were also used by male nobility and royals on special occasions. Daulat Khana - Treasures of Mehrangarh Museum gallery displays one of the most important and best preserved collections of fine and applied arts of the Mughal period of Indian history, during which the Rathore rulers of Jodhpur maintained close links with the Mughal emperors. It also has the remains of Emperor Akbar.

Moreover, rare collections of armour are displays i.e., sword hilts in jade, silver, rhino horn, ivory, shields studded with rubies, emeralds and pearls and guns with gold and silver work on the barrels. Also some personal swords of numerous emperors, among them outstanding historical piece like the Khaanda of Rao Jodha, weighing over 3 kg, the sword of Akbar the Great and the sword of Timur. There’s a gallery displays colors of Marwar-Jodhpur, the finest example of Marwar paintings. One of  Turban Gallery in the Mehrangarh Museum seeks to preserve, document and display the many different types of turbans once prevalent in Rajasthan; every community, region and festival having had its own head-gear.

Jodhpur is well-known for its warm climate and its location of being right at the edge of the Thar Desert, and with the number of amazing things to see and do in this city; you just can’t miss the prominence of Mehrangarh Fort. The Fort has been declared a unique geological location by National Geological Monument by the Geological Survey of India to encourage Geotourism in the country. Thar Desert region, spread over an area of 43,500 km2 represents the last phase of igneous activity of Precambrian age in the Indian Subcontinent. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park spreads over 72 hectares, adjoining Mehrangarh Fort. The park contains ecologically restored desert and arid land vegetation, distinctive volcanic rock formations such as rhyolite, with welded tuff, and breccia, sandstone formations. Nowadays, it is acknowledged as one of the best preserved fort in India. You don’t need a ticket to enter the fort itself, only the museum section.