The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef image courtsey: eb.com

The treasure of Oceania.

The region of the mid-south Pacific Ocean where Australia, New Zealand and numerous small islands (about 25,000) scattered is known as the Oceania. The Oceania has much geographical exclusivities for its credit; but Great Barrier Reef that spans 2000 kms near Australia is the most prominent among them. It is the largest coral reef in the world (the second largest is the Belize Barrier Reef of Central America) located in the Coral Sea off north–east part of Australia almost parallel to Queen’s Land. This rare natural wonder comprises of about 900 islands and more than 3000 coral platforms all formed by millions of years of biological activity has been approved as the icon of Queen’s Land.

Great Barrier Reef Map courtsey: gbrmpa.gov.au

The Coral Polyps, their self less service.

Unbelievable but true is the fact that these huge ‘mountains’ are aragonite structures created by a type of miniature animals known as ‘Coral Polyps’ belonging to the group of Sea Anemones and Jelly Fishes (colonial cnidarians). The Coral Polyps are very special types of ‘animals’ which are shaped like flowers, and live in enormous colonies consisting of billions of such animals. Each animal during its life span leaves an amount of calcium deposit (which functions as their exoskeleton) on which a new one finds its shelter thus the process goes on. These so called animals have no brain, heart, ear or even eyes, are engaged twenty four hours in absorbing calcium rich minerals from the surrounding sea water and converting it to hard calcium deposits that is the coral reef, a self less service for the welfare of the mother earth!

Symbiosis.

The lives of the Coral Polyps are dependent (rather it is a symbiotic relationship) on a special type of algae by name Zooxanthellae. Coral Polyps carry these yellowish brown algae in their body, Zooxanthellae produce necessary oxygen for the breathing and nutrients for the polyps in addition they help in the removal of wastes that get accumulated on its body. In return the algae get ‘lodging’ facility in the body (cytoplasm) of the polyps. This type of natural arrangement existing in nature between two types of being is known as symbiosis. The problem with symbiosis is that one animal cannot live without the other.

Barriers and Atolls, Bank Reef etc.

The Great Barrier Reef image courtsey: smh.com.au

The Coral Reefs are of many types, Fringing Reef, found in the shallow waters of seacoast and leaves a shallow lagoon with beautiful fish varieties, The Apron reef, Barrier Reef is that remains detached from mainland looks like a mountain range. Patch Reef, Ribbon Reef, Table Reef etc are shaped as their names denote (Table Reefs are comparatively larger). Atoll is ring shaped group of islands (may be continuous) that encircle a lagoon. The Barrier Reefs are located off the coast and are dotted with deep water bodies in between coat and the reef. The groups of coral islands also have lakes with bluish water in between. These Great Barrier Reefs that stretch more than 2000 km in length occupy more than 20,000 sq kms and each year they are engaged in the manufacturing of 500 million tons of calcium compounds!

A unique eco-system.

The Barrier Reef being a live mass require congenial atmosphere to flourish, temperature should be between 18 to 30 degree C, water should be saline and clear enough to allow sunrays in. Barrier reefs, Atolls and coral islands are all variants off same system. They jointly create a very rare and valuable eco system where numerous fish like Angel Fish, Parrot Fish, Damsel Fish, Butterfly Fish etc. algae, and many lower types of animals like Sea Cucumber, Shrimps, Spiny Lobsters, Star Fish etc. In a survey conducted in 1997 more than 93,000 species of plants and animals have been discovered from the barrier reef ecosystem. About one third of the total species of beings live in the barrier reef system. Deforestation makes the rivers filled with silt that flows direct in to the see.

Great Barrier Reef image courtsey: businessweek.com

A rude shock.

Deforestation is a main issue that works havoc on the reef, the disappearance of trees makes surface soil without support and it along with silt flows in to river and finally reaches in to the sea. These silt blocks sunlight beneath the sea and kill the symbiotic bacteria and thereby causing the death of the coral polyps. Industrial units discharge waste to the sea and effluents from crowded cities deposit it in to the sea. These effluents act like nutrients to some harmful bacteria and algae that invade the reef. All these are ringing death knell of this valuable system that has formed by billions of years. It is shocking to read that a major part of the barrier is on the verge of death.

A recognition.

The world has recognized the value and importance of the reef and it has been given the status of World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981. More than 2 million tourists visit the reef each year and Australian tourism is much dependent upon the reefs for its revenue sources. The responsibilities related with the protection of reef are entrusted with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. This Authority has the hard task to protect the environment while facilitating amenities to the tourists who come from the whole part of the world for pleasure as well as study.

Tourism.

Great Barrier Reef image courtsey: liveandletdive.googlepages.com

Tourism is the main income of the Great Barrier Reef area, the revenue it receives is over 1 billion dollars. The visitors to this reef are with varying demands some for sheer pleasure, others want to spent holidays in luxury, there are adventurers, and there are visitors who are aware of the rarity of the barrier reef phenomenon and want to understand it in person. Linder man, White Sunday, Hamilton, Day dream, Hook (all islands) Hardy Reef, Whit Heaven Beach are some of the destinations visited by cruisers, tourists can have sight seeing all around the places and avail great company along with.

Facilities.

There are about 700 approved tour operators of which more than 65% actively engaged in facilitating amenities to tourists. There are glass bottomed boats for viewing the corals by sitting in the boat, There are scuba diving facilities, semi submersible vessels, snorkeling gears (a tube and fittings to breathe while under shallow waters) rowing boats and etc provided. Those who are interested in fishing can pass time by catching fish. Those who have come to study the system has a good chance as educational tours are also here.

As it is in the case of most of the good tourists’ spots, here also the tourists who come for mere pleasure or just for spending a holiday; return with a lot of information and awareness; that they would never have acquired sitting at home.

Victoria Falls - Mosi oa Tunya

Victoria Falls - Mosi oa Tunya

Victoria Falls

“No one can imagine the beauty of the view from anything witnessed in England, it had never been seen before by European eyes; but the scene so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight!” David Livingstone who explored the Zambezi River during 1852 -56. Livingstone was not just an explorer but might be a poet in heart. The River Zambezi flowing quiet through the vast plains of Africa all on a sudden trips as such in to a 360 feet deep gorge making a water curtain that is 5577 feet (1700 meters) wide, the largest water curtain in the world. The local people call it ‘Mosi oa Tunya’; the thundering smoke!

Location.

Victoria Falls Map courtsey: botswana-tourism.gov.bw

Two nations own the credit of having the Victoria Falls; Zambia, and Zimbabwe. One bank is Livingstone (named after the famous explorer) and the other bank is the Victoria Falls of Zimbabwe. It is easy to select the Livingstone route as Zambia is a better place to Zimbabwe. From the town of Livingstone travel through the Mosia O Tunya road; the falls are just 11 km away. People of both countries are permitted to visit the other side without visa. The location being accessible by bus and train this is for the local people a cheap destination and most of the tourists is local people.

World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls - The Eastern Cataract, on the Zambian side.

The Victoria Falls are one of the world’s major tourist attractions and a UNESCO approved World Heritage Site. Each country has a National Park for the protection of the flora and fauna as well as for enhancing tourism. These National Parks are habitats of numerous animals wandering and grazing in the grass land plains are very easily visible to the tourists. In no other parts in the world wild animals are so easily visible; this is an added attraction to the visitors. Both countries depend heavily on the income from tourists to survive. Entry to Zimbabwe is expensive due to hefty fees and corrupt officials at the entry points. Political issues prevalent in Zimbabwe are not conductive to promote tourism hence the present the occupancy rates in hotels the at Zimbabwe side are dismal.

The mighty Zambezi.

The Zambezi River (The fourth longest river in Africa - length 1600 miles) has its origin in the 4922 feet high Mwinilunga Town (a hilly town -the wettest place in Africa) in Zambia and flows through the border dividing between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The mighty river has a basin of 1,390,000 sq kms (second only to Nile) and it has three major falls in its course (Victoria, Ngonye and the Chavuma Falls) of which Victoria is undoubtedly the biggest and the greatest. Zambezi flows 1600 miles through the parched plains of Middle Africa supplying the much needed water to people of 8 countries Zambia, Congo, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique to join Indian Ocean. The greatness of the river is that most of the whole animal world living in this area depends on the water of Zambezi.

Dr. David Livingstone (19 March 1813 – 4 May 1873).

It was Livingstone who revealed the existence of this marvel to the outside world and who named the falls after Victoria in honor of Queen Victoria. He was one of the most popular heroes of the 19^th century was a many splendored genius, a Scottish Presbyterian (a senior member of a church under the Bishop), pioneer medical missionary, a member of the London Missionary Society, Scientific investigator and explorer etc Livingstone’s descriptions are numerous. He was also a crusader against slavery as well as the hero of the working class. Discovery of Victoria Falls was just one feather on his cap, there others like, the source of River Nile, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Mweuru, Lake Banweulu etc. It was in a village (Illala on the south west banks of Lake Bangweulu; Livingstone breathed his last affected by chronic dysentery and malaria. He was granted the title ‘National Hero’ posthumously in 1874.

Vantage Points.

Victoria Falls Bridge

There is no dearth for vantage points to catch finer vision of this falls, for a closer vision to the visitor there is a natural basalt platform with the same height of the falls where visitors can comfortably stand and watch the massive curtain of water collapsing in to curtain to 360 feet deep gorge with a thunderous sound raising spray that can be seen from several miles away.

The Knife Edge Bridge, the Look out Tree are and the Falls Bridge all offer a 360 degree vision of the whole settings like Eastern Cataract, the Main Fall as well the ‘boiling pot’ where the river turns head down the Batoka Gorge.

The Victoria Falls Bridge commissioned by Cecil John Rhodes in 1900, this bridge has significance as Mr. Rhodes who wished the railway carriages getting a shower bath from the spray of the falls; never had the luck to witness the falls as he died before the completion of the bridge.

Boiling Pot.

‘Boiling Pot’ is a real sight when the broad and wide Zambezi suddenly collapses in to the falls and zigzag through the narrow gorges. This ‘pot’ really boils with the sheer power of the angry waters. This river is not the old placid Zambezi before the falls but a ‘possessed’ schizophrenic enraged with anger and brutal power; clearly visible from the steep cliff above. This place can be accessed from the parking lot; though the climb is a bit strenuous the reward compensates the effort. From their the thundering flow below, a panoramic view of the falls and a view of the Victoria Falls Bridge as well as the emerald forests around cane be clearly seen.

A walk way for some views.

The opposite cliff facing the falls is a well paved walk way through which visitors can take a walk through the rim of the rain forests and at times there are points to view the falls from different angles. The intense spray from the falls may wet the visitors but it can be taken as a welcome sign in the scorched tropical heat, take care of camera and other electronic items from getting soaked.

A wild view!

Main falls of Mosi-oa-Tunya or Victoria Falls

Africa is a continent very wide and scenic; it is less populated and secured from the recent frenzy of developmental activities. These two factors have helped in keeping its nature unspoiled to great extent. In Africa’s grass lands scenes one would have seen in movies can be seen in first person. Giraffe, zebra, bison, all sorts of deer, roam free and often falling prey to predators like lion, cheetah or tiger all offer a cinematic view of the whole land.

Facilities.

There are micro aircrafts for hire which tourists can avail though costly it is worth the money, as no where else in the world you can see a lion running after a herd of dears or a group of bisons numbering more than thousands grazing free! There are numerous agencies who arrange safaris both on elephants and walking; these facilities demand certain amount of physique, courage and endurance, because a confrontation with a rhino cannot be totally ruled out! Thinking of a ‘wild’ vacation? Come to the Victoria Falls and the surrounding National Park and see animals and Mother Nature as fresh as the time when god almighty created them

Harbor of Rio de Janeiro – Guanabara Bay

Harbor of Rio de Janeiro – Guanabara Bay

Habour of Rio de Janeiro image courtsey: ucop.edu

There is some error in the name; Rio de Janeiro means River of January, but it is on the shores of Guanabara Bay. The Portuguese sailors who came early were in a naming spree; found a calm water body within 20 miles of the shore they took it for the mouth of a river and named it Rio de Janeiro -the River of January as they discovered it in the month of January. Now the bay is Guanabara Bay its original name called by the natives and the huge natural harbor functioning within the bay and the nearby city all are ‘Harbor of Rio de Janeiro’. It is the capital of the Brazilian state with the same name -Rio de Janeiro.

The Harbor of Rio de Janeiro

Harbour of Rio de Janeiro Map courtsey: murrayhudson.com

In the South-East coast of Brazil the Atlantic Ocean juts in to the land giving birth to the Guanabara Bay which is a narrow alluvial strip that connects two big mountains; the Sugar Loaf and the Corcovado Mountains. Within these boundaries lies the Guanabara Bay that is 143 km in circumference that can house as many ships as the authorities wish; because it is so vast! No one can count the number of ships and yachts that has parked and those on the move in the colorful and bustling bay, which was once this bay was dotted with numerous islands. It’s status as a world wonder is amply justified when the sheer size and the safety of the vessels offered by the two gigantic mountains that stand as sentinels for the protection for the entire bay; all made by god almighty!

A bay under threat

Harbour of Rio de Janeiro image courtsey: bfirsttravel.com

The rapid expansion of the port and development activities taken place in the near by City of Rio (which in the process of encircling the bay) put tremendous pressure for land (which is at extremely high premium) in the surrounding areas of the bay. Shallow banks of the bay are being filled for land use. The requirement of sand for the purpose was met by the islands which were siphoned off to the banks for meeting land filling; until all islands vanished from the bay. At present the bay is almost filled with ships, almost like a crowded parking lot and its pristine waters getting polluted from the effluents of the ever growing city and the vessels that float all around.

Sugar Loaf and the Corcovodo.

The mouth of the bay is protected by two tall mountains standing like sentinels, the Sugar Loaf and the Corcovodo Mountains. The Sugar Loaf is a naked mountain and the mould that grows on the rocks would have given the reason for getting it this strange name is provided with cable car to facilitate tourism. The Corcovado in Portuguese means hunch back and the profile of the mountain is in accordance. It is on the Corcovado Mountain the ‘Christ the Redeemer Statue’ is placed. During Carnival time the ‘Suvacado Christo’ Band parades in the Botanical Garden starts from beneath the stretched arm of the Redeemer Christ Statue (Suvacado Christo means Christ’s armpit)

Christ the Redeemer.

When the Harbor of Rio de Janeiro itself is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, The Statue of Christ the Redeemer, the 38 meter giant of a statue that stands upon the Corcovado Mountain - which it self is 710 meters high- also is one of the Seven Manmade Wonders of the World! The only difference being when the Guanabara Bay is a god-made wonder Christ the Redeemer is man-made. When god made a port; man made a god! A World Wonder itself is rare but one such overseeing another World Wonder is rarer still.

A pilgrim spot.

The Corcovodo hill is famous for not only its Christ statue but is a well known tourist spot also; visited by millions of people from all around the world as well as domestic people. There is a small chapel adjoining the statue and where the Holy Mass is held regularly. Standing at the top of the Corcovodo hill one can see the panoramic view of the City of Rio (Rio de Janeiro). It is a real sight indeed! In fact before joining the crowd of the maddening Rio catching a vision of it from the Corcovodo is a must, one can either climb the steps or take rail that will reach up to 90% of the hill.

City of Rio.

Rio is the largest port city in the Latin American Continent, and a magnet in attracting world tourists, merely looking at it from the Corcovodo itself is thrilling then what would be becoming one among the reveling crowd; forgetting all; losing oneself in the maddening crowd; in a city of real joy. Rio is the land of Carnivals, celebrations, Samba and bold women who dare to wear the most revolutionary attire! See Brazilians whose hardened muscles (black, white and all hues) flex while they dance to the tune of the violent samba, where people forget day today worries in the frenzy of sheer celebrations. Making money is not the issue, but celebrating it; is, if not convinced come to Rio the City of joy during the Carnivals and see how to celebrate life. You only live once but come to Rio and live it twice.

Carnivals.

Carnival in Rio

The Carnivals had its origin as parades in Samba Schools and grew in size and magnitude to become the greatest show on earth, Sambadroma stadium is one of the biggest of its kind in the world. February and March (prior to Easter) is the time of these celebrations and plane-loads of tourists arrive to witness the revelation. All the seats and rooms are booked very much in advance (a seat may cost $ 80 to 100 officially and double that procured from a tout. As huge and weird floats pass by carrying the aggressively dressed ‘Samba Queens’ people cheer, sing and dance as if in a trance, nothing is impossible as it is time to rejoice! Those who could not get or afford a ticket can join in the numerous ‘Street Parties’ held at hotels, where drunken balls and revelries are frequent (law and order generally look the other way). Carnival time is the season of touts, pick-pockets, whores and pimps, the gullible visitor in search of some ‘pleasure’ will have to foot the bill in tears, while the smart Alec make hay in the Carnival sun!

Beaches.

Brazilians love and adore their body far more than others; they keep it fit so that they can go to beach with pride. Beauty parlors and boutiques are abundant beside the beaches. Rio has the credit of having world famous beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema to which the tourists can enter free. Copacabana is a lively one with people playing beach volley ball, surfers gliding along (this beach is popular for surfers) and others relaxing in the sand while Samba playing in the background. Visitors are advised to apply sun-screen lotion lavishly to avoid possible sun-burn as the sun is quite hot. There are numerous peddlers hawking tourists’ requirements. The Ipanema beach is generally frequented by the rich young and fashionable people is a world apart.

Samba Music.

Samba is more than a music to the Brazilian, it is the essence of all the pleasures of his life that make him feel like heaven while living even a life of penury. It is believed that the Samba had its origin in Angola, Africa; but the Brazilian version of it has evolved in Rio de Janeiro from the influence of the immigrant population from Bahia a place in Brazil. Samba even outlived the onslaught of Rock, and the Jazz to prevail its numero uno position for the Brazilians and whole world as well.

Pele telephone.

It was in 1917 for the first time ‘Pele telephone’ a recorded version of Samba was published by Ponga and Mauro Almeida. It was a resounding success and it marked the beginning of Samba coming out of the black favelas (slums occupied by blacks) to gain acceptability in the society. The advent of radio literally made Samba a world phenomenon. Getulio Varges the Brazilian dictator even made Samba Brazil’s official music. While on the path of growth Samba got branched in to various versions like Common Samba, Pagode, Partido Alto, Samba Concao, Samba Enrido etc. Samba with drum orchestra is a main attraction of the Carnival.

Foot ball.

The João Havelange Stadium.

Football is Brazil’s national weakness, during season all alleys turn to virtual football ground and elders watch and cheer the playing skill on their children with awe. Rio de Janeiro is home to mega football clubs like America, Bolafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense, Vasco etc. When Brazilian team wins a match it is national celebration to the whole Brazil and Rio in particular. The Maracana Stadium where major football matches are played is the biggest in the world while Pele (known as the black pearl) the football legend prevails as the greatest Brazilian ever born.

Too many to pull him up.

Football, Samba, Beaches, Carnivals and bold women what else to make life a pleasure filled dream run, Brazilians have all these. When football season recedes there arrive the carnivals and between these two there are the beautiful beaches where lovely dolls play beach volley ball and the Samba prevailing over his head, all these combined take the helpless Brazilian to cloud nine. There is only one string to pull him back to earth the ‘bold’ women, without whom an overwhelmed Brazilian would have risen up the skies like a hydrogen balloon, god bless!

Paricutin Volcano, Mexico – A volcano from corn field

Paricutin Volcano, Mexico – A volcano from corn field

Paricutin Volcano

Born on a Saturday evening (February 20, 1943) in a village by name Paricutin in Mexico; this volcano has the credit of being one of the youngest in the world. It was a fine Saturday evening; when Dionsio Pulido a Tara scan Indian (a native ethnic group of Mexico) went in to his corn field hearing an array of unusual sounds; for his horror what he saw was his farmland getting caved in and thunderous rumbling sounds coming out. Fumes with the foul odor (that of rotten eggs) emanating from the fissure. The poor Tara scan family did not foresee that a volcano was having its birth in their farmland. The enfant terrible swallowed not only Paricutin the village of its origin but the neighboring San Juan Parangarikutiro.

The youngest; but the fastest.

In one way Mr. Dionsio Pulido can sigh in relief; though he lost his farmland he can claim ownership of one of the Seven Wonders of the World; because this volcano was born in his farmland! Paricutin is located in the Michoacan State of Mexico. Since its birth in 1943 it grew fast and almost reached three fourth of its present size within one year of its inception.

Trans Mexican Volcanic Belt or Transversal.

Map of Paricutin Volcano

The birth of a volcano; taken place in a populated place; that too from within a cornfield was a very rare occurrence. This place known as the Trans Mexican Volcanic Belt (The ‘Transversal’ that passes across Southern Mexico in east-west direction) has the credit of owning more than 1400 volcanoes; many of them still active. Among these 1400 the Paricutin is the ‘fastest’ growing one in the pyroclastic (eruptive stage) itself it reached a height of 336 meters.

What is a volcano and how is it formed.

1943 eruption

People for generations have feared, admired and worshiped volcanoes but only recently they were brought under scientific research and study. The core of the earth is made up of molten materials made up of different materials like silica, magnesium, sulfur etc remaining in high temperature and pressure. Volcanoes are mere outlets for the release of this pressure. Some weak area closer to the pressure zone will finally give way for the release and the magma flows out spewing lava and other contents. It may either burst or flow out; this process is determined by the temperature of the magma, gases dissolved in it etc. The lava cools of after contacting atmosphere and rocks are formed (such rocks are called igneous rocks), it is these deposits that accumulate and become the volcano. The Paricutin is a telling example and there are even eyewitness; still alive to tell the story.

Tierra Caliento terrain.

Paricutin from Las Cabañas

The Paricutin is located about 200 miles from Mexico City in an elevation of 10,400 feet above sea level. It has at present a height of 1391 feet (424 meters) and occupies 10 sq km or area with solidified lava and another sq km with volcanic sand lying scattered all around. This volcano is in a climate region called Tierra Caliento which is about 3000 feet above sea level and known for its long hot summers and mild winters. Cactus forests, Tree Ferns, Mossy Orchids and other flowering plants are abundant in this region. Many species of snakes (most of them non poisonous) coyotes and mountain lions are also found in the area surrounding the volcano.

A research lab of a volcano.

Cinder cone in 1943

As the origin of it was in a populated area scientists could watch every stages in the formation of a volcano and they could use all the modern devices to study the process in detail, perhaps the most significant aspect of the Paricutin Volcano is its birth and growth in the eyes of modern science. For scientists this is a ‘Cinder Cone’ (a cone shaped mount around a volcano) type volcano which is ‘monogenic’, meaning simply this ‘with a single vent’. Ever since it erupted initially and the second one in 1953 this volcano is growing up far faster than any of its peers. At present the solidified lava

The church bell-tower tells it all.

San Juan Parangaricutiro Church

Paricutin has the credit of one of the most harmless volcano as its initial eruption even though it occurred in the middle of a village and it covered the entire village of Paricutin (it is in the name of this village the volcano is named) and adjoining village of San Juan for its birth. Its eruption was slow enough in the pace so that people could find a secure shelter some where; while the entire village was covered by the debris thrown out of the volcano (ejecta) a church bell tower still stands up above all telling its presence to the visitors. The latest eruption in 1952 no one was dead from the flow of lava that flowed 50 feet below its rim, but the lightening that occurred in volcanic clouds caused the death of three persons.

Mount Everest – ‘The Fore-head of the Sky’

Mount Everest image courtsey: acrossthedivide.com

Like beads in a string.

The Himalayan Ranges which bear the tallest peeks in the world and stands as a robust rock-wall that stretches from Afghanistan to Assam. In the western edge it is the Hindu Kush, then towards east The Pamir Mountains, Karakoram and the Proper -Himalayas all like beautiful beads joined in a string to form the great Himalayan Ranges Mount Everest ‘the crown of the Himalaya is nearer to the eastern end. Being in the border between Nepal and Tibet (now part of China) both nations have reasons to boast as the host of the tallest Mountain.

Too many claimants.

Mount Everest image courtsey: presscluboftibet.org

Asians considered it as their god given wealth and accommodated it in their mythologies! Himalaya is considered to be the abode of Lord Siva (Kailasa) and hence Everest being the tallest mount there it is none other than Lord Siva for Hindus. Buddhists already treat it as their god. Government of Nepal to get it established that the peak is their own has came to a decision give it an exclusive Nepali name! After many deliberations the selected one name coined by one Baburam Acharya it was.....’Sagarmatha’ meaning Forehead of the sky (it was fortunate that they did not claim the moon their own and coined it some name).

Gold in dawn, silver in dusk.

A sun-rise at the Mount; a view from nearby hill (Rongbuk Monastery); the ice-clad peak that towers tall and sparkling in the purest golden rays of a fresh rising sun give a coat of gold to the peak that sprinkles it lavishly all around is a vision unparalleled; In the dusk; well adored in the milky moon on its forehead; reflecting its silvery beams all around the dark; it stands tall under the sky that looks as an open umbrella studded with a million stars is an unforgettable spectacle! Anybody who loves god so dearly would be compelled to call this ‘gold bathed peek’ god itself!

Hillary and Tensing.

Hillary and Tensing image courtsey: eb.com

Mount Everest had been there standing tall and challenging all adventurers all over the world, ever since Everest was acclaimed as the tallest peak in the world there had been no dearth for bold men attempting to conquer it. In this attempts of conquering Everest so many had lost their life but people still went on climbing, at last in May 29, 1953 a team of two, Sir Edmund Hillary a New Zealander adventurer and a Sherpa - Tensing Norgay was successful in conquering it. They were actually conquering the pages of history by this great ascend.

Youngest and the oldest.

Of late climbing on Everest has ceased to be a news as about there were more than 3050 ascends in 2006 itself, therefore records were born in different lines like climbing without oxygen, or through different route etc. Later they were followed by many other types of records like the youngest, oldest etc; let us see one or two such cases as a diversion. The youngest who ever climbed its peak is Shambu Tamang a 16 year old Nepali boy while the oldest was Roman Blanco of Spain who was sixty and a half years old.

Himalayan problem of pollution.

The climbing on Everest became a fad people began to flock to it as if in to a tourist spot this phenomenon created severe environmental problems in this high altitude areas which are difficult to be cleaned. As the mountain and the surroundings became polluted with the waste materials the climbers as well as their helpers have left, the government has imposed certain restrictions to climbers.

China and its ‘Everest road’

The recent decision of the Chinese government to build a 108 kilometer road up to the basic camp spending millions of dollars in this ecologically sensitive area also has drawn a lot of flaks from environmentalists. These projects include hotels and resorts intended for the tourism bonanza related with the ensuing 2008 Olympics. Chinese government does not seem to have liberated from the callous approaches of the formal Mao regime otherwise they would not have thought of flooding such an area with tourists and converting Sacred Himalaya in to a garbage bin. The question of a few dollars would have made them greed-struck!

Hefty fees!

Now the government of Nepal has started to charge a hefty fee ($ 25,000) from those who attempt to climb the mountain, yet there are many to do the job and pollute the mountain! Now Mount Everest stands as one of the most polluted Mountain in the world as the Fee collected from the climbers is not spent for the cleaning of the mountain; instead it is spent for meeting government’s own financial requirements.

Highest point on this planet!

Cimbers route Mount Everest image courtsey: alumnus.caltech.edu

There are many ways to calculate the height of a mountain. If the criteria is the height of the peak from sea-level (this is the most common practice) Everest is easily the highest as it is 8848 Meters above sea-level. When the criteria vary (difference from base to peak is taken as height; then Mount Mauna Kea of Hawaii comes first as it is 10200 Meters tall from its base but it only 4205 meters above sea-level. The reason being Mount Mauna Kea is located in the ocean-bed what a misfortune! It can be taken as a ‘locational dis-advantage’. In any case there is no dispute that this peak is the highest point on this planet.

Wow! Indian mathematics.

Mount Everest was named after George Everest the British Surveyor General of India who surveyed the peak first. At that time visiting those areas were forbidden for outsiders yet one Indian mathematician by name Radhanath Sikdar could calculate the height of the peak standing about 150 miles away in India as 29002 feet! Mount Everest has two main climbing routes the main path is through the Nepal route (Katmandu – Lukla – Namache bazar – Base camp is the most popular one. Due to political problems the Tibet route is generally not selected by the climbers.

Base camp.

The climb begins with a trek to base camp (5380 Meters) about two weeks has to be spend in the base-camp at Khumbu Glacier, there while debutants undergo training in various aspects of mountaineering; while they are getting acclimatized. In the mean time seniors with the help of Sherpas (a tribe living in the border between Nepal and Tibet they are famous for mountaineering skills) will be engaged in fixing ropes ladders etc for beginners to enhance progress of the beginners as well as to reduce casualties.

Camp -1 (ABC)

Then they proceed to Camp 1 or the ABC (Advanced Base Camp) in the early morning before the ice loosing its toughness. The ABC is about 6065meters high yaks will be provided to carry luggage like food, water and tents.

Climb via South East ridge, Camp 1 to 4 and then!.

Everest route image courtsey: -t-n.no

From Camp-1 climbers make way for camp 2 to the base of Lhotse (it is the 4^th tallest in the world) at 6500 meters which is relatively flat, but gaping crevasses do not let direct pass and have to progress through extreme right. This place lacks the usual whistle of the blowing wind and hence called ‘valley of silence’.

The toughest parts.

Mount Everest climbers route image courtsey: 4to40.com

The journey from camp 2 to camp 3 (it is a small ledge at an altitude of 7470 meters) is tough and have to be done through ropes alone. From camp 3 to camp 4 the journey is a hurdle jumping exercise have to cross the yellow band (a wall of anvil-shaped sedimentary rocks (is another 500 meters altitude) the South Col (7920 meters) Climbers proceed from South Col at midnight towards 8400 meters balcony the South Summit.

Further journey is through a very dangerous and narrow path (Cornice Traverse) with a single misstep one can fall to gorges as deep as thousands of meters. At the end there is the Hillary Step a 12 meter high rock-wall at the height of 8760 meters to receive the climbers.

Top of the world.

Loose and rocky path is in waiting for the climber after the Hillary-Step; paving of fixed ropes is a relief but has to be careful of not getting entangled as he is already at the top of the world but has to return within less than half an hour because they have to reach camp before night. Saying goodbye! To the summit is difficult as there is no body residing not even an insect, as the only insect available was the jumping spider that too about 500 meters below. However Good bye dear Everest! See you later if God so desires!

Grand Canyon –Arizona USA

Grand Canyon

The earth on which we live in has unbelievable features; if not fully convinced of the statement go and see the Grand Canyon, any one will agree with a shock and awe that the earth is a real wonder. Looking on the rim one may find the ‘really grand’ canyon as a giant crack on the face of the earth; it may look as if the Mother Earth got cracked in to two, but scientists claim it has been made by the erosive effect of the Colorado River that flows thousands of meters down the ridges.

Some millions and some billions.

As per scientists the canyon is the creation of the Colorado River; its running waters engaged in non-stop erosion activity; that has taken to take away the rocks; and carved out such a canyon. Need a pinch of salt to digest? If so, how many millions of years it would have taken to rob of so much mass of rocks? No definite answer several millions, that is all! What would be the age of the rock that got caved in as the canyon, the answer is “several billions”.

Really grand canyon!

Grand Canyon map courtsey: utexas.edu

The Grand Canyon - central part of the Grand Canyon National Park- is in the state of Arizona. This location was first discovered by Coronado a European in 1540. The Grand Canyon National Park is 4927 sq km in area is the largest national park in US. It is located in a plateau at about 8200 feet above sea level. This canyon located between two rims (the North Rim and the South Rim) is 20 to 29 km wide (from one rim to the other), and depth between 3000 to 5000 feet; the canyon is about 500 km long.

And quietly flows the Colorado!

In the bottom river Colorado flows quite like a thin blue thread stretched between the desolate setting and rugged terrain. It would be hard to assume that such an innocent river could make this vast expanse of a canyon and still keep on flowing as if does not know any thing about the origin of the canyon!

Money spinner.

This area though placed in a remote corner of Arizona has turned out to be a virtual money spinner to US, as each year the numbers of tourists who visit the spot keep on increasing and to the visitors to US Grand canyon remains in the top of their wish list. The Grand Canyon National Park has been declared a National Park by the US government in 26^th February 1919. The UNESCO has also approved it as World Heritage site.

Some precautions before visit.

Grand Canyon

As pleasure seekers from US as well as those around the world come here for enjoyment, tourists who are not accustomed with realities may face problems. June to mid September is the ideal time for visit. About 4 million people visiting this park every year and the South Rim is the favorite location of 90% of them.

Not a city!

• Grand Canyon is not a city; but a remote location those who come without advance booking in the lodges as well as personal belongings will be in trouble.

• During seasons traffic will be heavy and be prepared for snarls that can make anybody restless (avoiding peek season is the only way out).

• Servicing of vehicles would be difficult (keep the vehicle fit check the spare tire), refilling of fuel will be problem, so come with the tank full.

• Take enough water as well as food items (otherwise will have to beg for a bottle of water!).

• It is good to take an extra set of car keys as loss of a set should not make you a lost child.

• Parking of vehicles will also be an issue for those who come late, hence be an early bird (better leave the car at the gate and take free bus facility).

• There are few rain shelters take an umbrella because the weather; as it is every where is quite un-predictable.

• South Rim is about 7000 feet above sea level (people with Asthma or claustrophobia better avoid walking through the trails).

Hikers beware!

Grand Canyon

Hiking is a thrilling experience but Grand Canyon is no ordinary hill! Only those with good health should try it. Even those with experience in hiking should spend two days one for the descent and spent night in a secure place and start climbing next day. Take enough water with electrolytes to keep body cool as the temperature may rise up to 41 degree Celsius. There may be confrontations with rattle snakes (very common in the locality) just ignore it and mind your business.

Feeding or going near wild animals is not only risky but there is fine for such activities as it is illegal (leave the wild as wild).

Facilities!

Grand Canyon

The efficiency that is found in facilitating maximum convenience to the tourists along with ensuring their safety is a demanding task, but the same is managed here with marked efficiency. Canyon View Information Plaza is open 365 days and provides necessary guidance to tourists. They also provide rest rooms and a good library for visitors. There are more than one vantage point in short walk distance like Mater Point. There is free shuttle service Grand Canyon Village Desert View or take the Hermit road to the rim in 13 km distance where private vehicles are not allowed.

Tour options.

There is no dearth for packaged tour organized by tour operators, programs which are tailor made fit for age groups as well as all pockets. All facilities can and should be previously booked for ensuring availability. There are helicopter ride enabling visitors to see the ultimate details of the canyon the multicolor hues of the rough terrain scattered along with boulders of many shapes. There is one option more thrilling that is rafting through the Colorado River to the canyon; it is dove-tailed with helicopter down an up to save time and energy at the cost of some money.

Hualapai Reservation.

There are Red Indian villages in the southern side of Colorado River; inhabited by Hualapai Tribes (hualapai in native language means ‘people of tall pine’ denoting the lush pine forests where they originally lived). This settlement is about 150 sq km in area and population is 1350 these people live in a world of their own and the tribal chieftains still wield power over the community. Law and order are maintained by Bureau of Indian Affairs. Yavapai and Havasupai (who live nearby) are related tribes. The contact with modern culture and life style has wreaked havoc in their culture, now alcoholism and obesity has become prevalent.

Business of selling dreams!

The business acumen of America is visible everywhere, entrepreneurs here know how to do business and make money, they know that here people are out to seek some pleasure, and tour operators leave no opportunities unexplored in rendering all sorts of services and facilities to the visitors; and as a result money flows here mightier than River Colorado while the tourists satisfaction level rises above South Ridge; That is American dream!