Chandanwadi

Overview

Chandanwari is a scenic location situated in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is a key stop on the way to the Amarnath Cave Temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage site. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and strategic importance in the pilgrimage route, Chandanwari is a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists. Here is a comprehensive overview of Chandanwari:

Geography and Location

Location: Chandanwari is located approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Pahalgam, a popular hill station in Jammu and Kashmir. It lies on the route to the Amarnath Cave Temple, which is one of the holiest sites for Hindus.
Altitude: Chandanwari is situated at an elevation of around 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level.
Coordinates: 34° 6′ N latitude and 75° 21′ E longitude.

Features and Attractions

Scenic Beauty: Chandanwari is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. The area is characterized by lush green meadows, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear rivers. The beauty of Chandanwari is accentuated by its serene environment and picturesque surroundings.
Starting Point for Amarnath Yatra: Chandanwari is a crucial starting point for the Amarnath Yatra, an annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave Temple. Pilgrims use Chandanwari as a base camp before embarking on the trek to the temple. The journey from Chandanwari to the Amarnath Cave is a challenging and spiritually significant trek.
Chandanwari Glacier: The Chandanwari Glacier is one of the prominent features of the area. The glacier adds to the valley’s scenic beauty and contributes to the local rivers and streams.
Adventure Activities: While Chandanwari is primarily known for its pilgrimage significance, it also offers opportunities for outdoor activities. The surrounding area is ideal for nature walks, camping, and photography.
Local Flora and Fauna: The region around Chandanwari is home to diverse flora and fauna. Visitors may encounter various species of birds, butterflies, and small mammals. The meadows are often dotted with wildflowers during the summer months.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Summer (May to September): The best time to visit Chandanwari is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is also the best time for trekking and outdoor activities.
Autumn (October to November): Offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors. The weather is generally clear, making it a good time for sightseeing and trekking.
Winter (December to February): The area experiences heavy snowfall during the winter months, which can make travel and trekking difficult. However, the snow-covered landscape is beautiful and offers opportunities for snow-related activities.
Spring (March to April): Spring brings blooming flowers and gradually warming temperatures. It is a pleasant time for exploring the area before the summer rush.

Day 1 :

Kathmandu to Pokhara (By flight or Bus)

Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu, you are welcomed by the team and then you will be transferred to your hotel. This trail goes through Ghorepani Poon Hill. Normally, the trek starts like Phokhara to Nayapul and ends like Phedi to Pokhara.

Day 2 :

Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri

While early travel tended to be slower, more dangerous, and more dominated by trade and migration, cultural and technological advances over many years have tended to mean that travel has become easier and more accessible. The evolution of technology in such diverse fields as horse tack and bullet trains has contributed to this trend.

Day 3 :

Trek to Ghorepani

The Palace of Fifty five Windows: This magnificent palace was built during the reign of King Yakshya Malla in A.D. 1427 and was subsequently remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the seventeenth century. Among the brick walls with their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony with Fifty five Windows, considered to be a unique masterpiece of woodcarving.

Day 4 :

Early trek to Poon Hill for Sunrise, Back to Ghorepani and Trek to Tadapani

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts.

Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast of the Semantics, a large language ocean. A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia.

Day 5 :

Tadapani to Chomrong

Even the all-powerful Pointing has no control about the blind texts it is an almost unorthographic life One day however a small line of blind text by the name of Lorem Ipsum decided to leave for the far World of Grammar.

Day 6 :

Chomrong to Dobhan (Dovan)

The Big Oxmox advised her not to do so, because there were thousands of bad Commas, wild Question Marks and devious Semikoli, but the Little Blind Text didn’t listen.

Day 7 :

Dovan to Deurali

When she reached the first hills of the Italic Mountains, she had a last view back on the skyline of her hometown Bookmarksgrove, the headline of Alphabet Village and the subline of her own road, the Line Lane. Pityful a rethoric question ran over her cheek.

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How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will to, you can.

How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.

What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?

The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.

What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?

Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, hot water facility could be free at lower elevation.

Are there ATMs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?

No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.

What about internet access?

Yes. Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.

Is it necessary to hire Guides/trekking agency for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during off season.

It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.

How much do guides and porters cost?

For Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.