Himalayas, literally
meaning “abode of the snow” in Sanskrit, are a cluster of over
hundred mountains stretching across five countries (India, Nepal,
Pakistan, China and Bhutan). These mountain ranges are unique in many
respects, besides being the youngest mountains on the planet;
Himalayas are home to a variety of flora and fauna, are a major
tourist attraction and are considered sacred in Hinduism and
Buddhism
The abundant wildlife,
beautiful, scenic views, pleasant climate, trekking and pilgrimage
are some of the things which attract tourists to these ranges. Its
deep valleys and lofty peaks have enticed travellers since eternity.
The Weather in Himalayas enjoy an alpine climate which varies with elevation; it
gets colder with increasing height. Summers, monsoons and winters are
the main seasons. Monsoons are experienced by the lower ranges and
decrease as height increases
The best time to visit
Himalayas depends largely on the purpose of your visit. If
trekking is what you are looking for then March till June and
September to November are a good time. There is little or no snow
which makes camping and climbing easier and less treacherous. For
sightseeing, anytime is good. If you wish to enjoy the snow then plan
your trip in the months from December to February. Hill stations like
Shimla and Darjeeling experience snow at this time. Be prepared to
take heavy woollens as temperatures drop at night. The summer months,
from April till June are also good if you want to escape the
blistering heat of the plains. The Himalayan region enjoys a pleasant
weather during this time.
For clear views of the
majestic peaks you must visit during the months from October to
November. This is the time when the skies are clear and blue and one
can get excellent views of the Himalayan peaks. The Buddhist and
Hindu pilgrimage centres are open to devotees at all times, but if
you wish to enjoy Buddhist festivals, visit around July-August. The
famous Amarnath Yatra of Hindus occurs during the same time. It is
attended by thousands of devotees who undertake an arduous trek to
the shrine located at a height of 3,888 metres.
A visit to the Himalayas
will be a unique and exotic experience regardless of the time of your
visit. So plan a trip to any of its scenic hill stations and enjoy a
satisfying vacation with your family in blissful surroundings.
