Latest news with #GuruPadmasambhava
Time of India
29-07-2025
- Time of India
Anand Mahindra praises Gurudongmar Lake as a ‘surreal vision'; here's how to reach this Himalayan gem and essential travel tips
Source: Incredible India Perched at a staggering 17,800 feet above sea level, Gurudongmar Lake in northern Sikkim is one of the world's highest and most awe-inspiring lakes. Surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks and glacial terrain, it is more than a natural wonder—it is a site of spirituality, myth, and ecological importance. Named after Guru Padmasambhava, the revered 8th-century Buddhist saint, this lake attracts pilgrims, travelers, and adventure seekers alike. Recently, an image captured by ex-Indian Navy pilot Capt. Sumit Bhatnagar caught the eye of industrialist Anand Mahindra , who described it as a 'surreal vision,' quoting Rabindranath Tagore to capture its tranquil beauty. Anand Mahindra shares stunning photo of Gurudongmar Lake Industrialist Anand Mahindra recently drew attention to Gurudongmar Lake when he shared a stunning photograph captured by ex-Indian Navy pilot Capt. Sumit Bhatnagar. Describing the lake's beauty as a 'surreal vision,' Mahindra quoted Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore: 'In the mountain, stillness surges up to explore its own height; in the lake, movement stands still to contemplate its own depth.' His post highlighted not just the lake's mesmerizing stillness but also its spiritual and emotional resonance, sparking curiosity among his millions of followers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Up to 70% off | Libas Purple Days Sale Libas Undo Mahindra's appreciation placed this remote, high-altitude wonder firmly in the spotlight, inspiring travelers and nature enthusiasts worldwide. Anand Mahindra calls Gurudongmar lake a 'surreal vision'. The lake gained fresh attention when Capt. Sumit Bhatnagar, a former Indian Navy pilot, photographed its surreal landscape. Business tycoon Anand Mahindra shared the image on social media, calling it a 'surreal vision' and quoting Tagore: 'In the mountain, stillness surges up to explore its own height; in the lake, movement stands still to contemplate its own depth. ' The photograph showcased Gurudongmar not just as a travel destination but as a place of emotional depth, serenity, and natural artistry, inspiring global curiosity and admiration. Why Gurudongmar Lake is sacred and key to the Teesta river's origin The name 'Gurudongmar' honors Guru Padmasambhava, widely regarded as the second Buddha in Tibetan Buddhism. According to legend, the lake once remained frozen year-round, making it impossible for locals to access water. Guru Padmasambhava is believed to have blessed the lake, ensuring that a portion of it remains unfrozen even during the harshest winters. This miracle gave the lake sacred status among Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. Pilgrims visit to collect its water, believed to possess healing powers and divine energy. For Sikhs, the lake is linked to Guru Nanak's visit, adding another layer of faith and reverence. Source: X Beyond its spiritual aura, Gurudongmar Lake plays a vital role in Sikkim's ecosystem. It is fed primarily by glacial melt from the surrounding Himalayan peaks and flows into the nearby Tso Lahmu Lake before forming the Teesta River. The Teesta is the lifeline of Sikkim and parts of West Bengal, supporting agriculture, drinking water needs, and hydropower projects downstream. Despite appearing small due to its surrounding rugged terrain, the lake covers a vast area, its turquoise waters reflecting the dramatic mountain backdrop. At this high altitude, oxygen levels are significantly lower, making the journey challenging for both visitors and the region's sparse wildlife. How to reach Gurudongmar Lake Reaching Gurudongmar is an adventure in itself. Travelers can fly into Pakyong Airport, located around 30 km from Gangtok, or Bagdogra Airport, approximately 100 km away. From there, the road journey covers the route Gangtok–Mangan–Lachung, winding through mountain roads and breathtaking landscapes. Those traveling by train can opt for New Jalpaiguri station, the nearest railhead. Visitors require a special permit, as the lake is close to the Indo-China border, and acclimatization is crucial due to the extreme altitude. The journey, while challenging, rewards travelers with unmatched views and an unforgettable spiritual experience. Travel tips for visitors Best time to visit: March to June and October to early December are ideal for clear skies and accessible roads. Permits required: As the region lies near a sensitive border area, Indian nationals need permits issued by the Sikkim Tourism Department. Foreign nationals face additional restrictions. Altitude precautions: At nearly 18,000 feet, altitude sickness is common. Visitors should acclimatize in lower areas like Lachen or Lachung and carry essential medication. Clothing and essentials: Warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and hydration are crucial due to extreme weather and low oxygen levels. Also Read | This small European nation has no airport, no currency, yet is richer than most nations; the answer may surprise you; know more about the nation
India.com
19-07-2025
- India.com
10 Things About Sikkim That'll Make You Want To Pack Your Bags Right Now
Where snowcaps whisper, monasteries hum, and the land feels like a prayer. Somewhere between the sharp edges of the Eastern Himalayas and the soft heartbeat of ancient traditions lies Sikkim. It is not a state. It is a pause. A breath. A place that does not rush to impress but lingers in your soul long after the suitcase is zipped. You may arrive for the snow, the silence, or the stories—but you stay because everything here feels rooted. Still. Sacred. But how much do we really know about this land of prayer flags and peaks? Let's go deeper. Let's walk past the postcards and into the essence of Sikkim. 1. Sikkim Was Once a Kingdom, Not a State Yes, Sikkim had its own king. Until as recently as 1975, this was an independent Himalayan kingdom ruled by the Chogyal dynasty. The transition into the Indian Union wasn't just political—it was emotional. And traces of that regal past still whisper through Rumtek's corridors and Gangtok's quieter corners. 2. The Only Organic State in India This is not a marketing tagline. Sikkim banned chemical pesticides and fertilizers back in 2003. Today, every farm here is organic. Every vegetable, every spice—grown with respect, not shortcuts. It is a way of life, not just farming. When you bite into that local radish or spinach soup, you taste purity. And intention. 3. A Place Where Nature Leads, Not Follows There are more butterflies in Sikkim than in all of Europe. Over 5,000 species of flowering plants. Glaciers, lakes, and medicinal forests exist here not as backdrops, but as main characters. Visit Yumthang Valley or Tsomgo Lake, and you'll know—this is not décor. This is identity. 4. It Hosts India's First Skywalk At Bhaleydhunga near Namchi, Sikkim rises—literally. Perched at over 10,000 feet, India's first glass skywalk stares down into the void, framed by a massive statue of Guru Padmasambhava. If you dare to look down, the clouds part and the valley speaks. This is not a thrill. It's a surrender. 5. The Spiritual Pulse Here Is Unmistakable It's not about temples or rituals. It's energy. The hum of monks chanting in a monastery at dawn. The quiet glow of butter lamps. The way locals fold hands in respect to every mountain. Sikkim is spiritual not because it tries to be, but because it always has been. 6. The People Speak Many Tongues, But the Land Feels United Lepchas, Bhutias, Nepalis—they all call Sikkim home. Each has their own language, food, attire. Yet, somehow, there is no noise. Just harmony. Just a shared silence that says—we belong here, together. Listen closely in a market or monastery, and you'll hear this unity without words. 7. You Can See the World's Third-Highest Peak from Your Balcony Kanchenjunga is not a mountain here. It is family. Guardian. Pride. The golden glow it casts during sunrise over Pelling or Goechala Trek is not a view. It's a blessing. Locals never climb it. Out of respect. Because some heights are meant to be revered, not conquered. 8. Sikkim's Food is Humble but Deeply Healing Think beyond momo and thukpa. Imagine warm millet-based porridges. Fermented leafy greens. Soups that have stories in them. Each meal is simple, but thoughtfully prepared. No excess. No waste. Just nourishment the way elders once taught, and children still remember. 9. The Roads Are Winding, But the Journeys Are Straightforward Sikkim is not for the impatient traveler. Landslides happen. Roads turn to dust. But somehow, every delay becomes a discovery. A waterfall unplanned. A roadside stall with cardamom chai. A story from the driver's childhood. Here, the journey really is the destination. 10. Sikkim Doesn't Ask for Attention. It Deserves It Quietly. There are no aggressive souvenir shops. No neon signs asking you to 'explore now.' Instead, you'll find silence. Smiles. A cup of tea offered without a price. This is a place that doesn't scream its beauty. It lets you find it slowly, as all good things should be found. So why does Sikkim matter in 2025? -Because in a world that is speeding up, this place insists on slowing down. -Because where most destinations focus on what you can see, Sikkim is about what you can feel. -Because the future of travel is not just about discovery. It's about reverence. And Sikkim teaches you that in ways you didn't expect. -You leave not with photos, but with stillness in your bones. -You remember not the itineraries, but the inhale you took at Gurudongmar Lake. The one that reminded you—you are tiny, and that's beautiful. Practical Tips If You're Planning a Trip to Sikkim Go Slow Spend at least a week. Let your pace match the land. Pack for Layers Sun, wind, snow—all in a day. Sikkim doesn't follow forecasts. Respect Local Culture Ask before photographing. Take your shoes off at monasteries. Listen more than you talk. Try Local Homestays They're not just cheaper—they're stories waiting to be shared. Do Nothing Sometimes Sit by a lake. Sip local tea. Let the silence teach you something new. Final Thought Let Sikkim not just be a place you visit but an experience that moves you. Walk its trails with an open heart and quiet mind. Feel the purity of its air the clarity of its sounds and the quiet magic that makes you wish you never had to leave. Some truths about Sikkim are not meant to be learned but lived.
Hans India
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Buddhist heritage site sought for Bhikampali
Jharsuguda: The Guru Padmasambhava Suraksha Trust submitted a memorandum to Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari seeking comprehensive development of Bhikampali (Padmapur) in Lakhanpur block of Jharsuguda district. Bhikampali is internationally recognised as the birthplace of Guru Padmasambhava, revered as the Second Buddha. The memorandum was submitted during a two-day national seminar on Guru Padmasambhava organised on July 4 and 5 at Bhikampali. The event drew scholars, spiritual leaders and the local community to celebrate the legacy of Guru Padmasambhava, who played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism to Tibet and beyond. The global Buddhist community has acknowledged Bhikampali as his birthplace, bringing immense pride to the region. The key demands include construction of a monument in memory of Guru Padmasambhava, declaration of Bhikampali as a Buddhist heritage site, establishment of a Buddhist Cultural and Research Centre, inclusion of Guru Padmasambhava's life and teachings in the academic curriculum, initiation of archaeological and historical research by the Archaeological Survey of India and State Culture department and promotion of Bhikampali as a tourist site. On the occasion, Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit supported the move and assured that he will bring the matter to the notice of the Central government. Eminent researcher Prabir Kumar Pattnaik highlighted Bhikampali's historical significance. 'Sambad' founder-editor Soumya Ranjan Patnaik called for greater awareness on the birthplace of Guru Padmasambhava. The Trust urged the minister to initiate steps to convert Bhikampali into a global centre of peace, spiritual learning and pilgrimage site. The local community and Buddhist fraternity have expressed the hope that the Odisha government will take steps to place Bhikampali on the Buddhist heritage map.
Time Business News
26-06-2025
- Time Business News
Sikkim Tourism Guide for Nature, Culture, and Peace Seekers
Sikkim, tucked in the northeast of India, offers a rare balance of nature, culture, and calm. With its high-altitude lakes, ancient monasteries, and green valleys, Sikkim Tourism has grown steadily among travelers who prefer raw beauty and depth over commercial hotspots. It's a region where every road leads to a story—be it of snow peaks, prayer flags, or age-old traditions. What makes Sikkim Tourism stand out is not just the place but the pace. Unlike crowded tourist zones, Sikkim still holds its identity. Whether you're a solo traveler seeking silence, a photographer chasing Himalayan sunrises, or a family looking to spend slow days in nature—Sikkim fits. The people are warm, the food is simple yet rich, and the environment breathes purity. You can reach Sikkim via Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri railway station in West Bengal, followed by a road journey. The new Pakyong Airport near Gangtok has also made access smoother. The best months to visit are from March to June and from late September to December. Winters turn the higher regions icy and magical, while spring dresses the land in blooms. Gangtok is the state's capital and the primary hub for Sikkim Tourism. It's not just a base for other destinations, but a blend of tradition and modernity. You can walk the MG Road without being chased by vendors, visit monasteries like Rumtek and Enchey, and sip butter tea in a quiet café—all in one day. Gangtok is clean, disciplined, and rich with charm that sticks. Lachung, Yumthang Valley, and Gurudongmar Lake form the soul of North Sikkim. These areas demand permits due to their proximity to international borders, but the extra steps are worth it. Gurudongmar, one of the world's highest lakes, remains frozen for most of the year and reflects a stillness that's hard to put into words. Lachung is a sleepy village with wooden homes and whispers of the past. The journey to these places is bumpy, slow, and often unpredictable—but that's what gives it value. Sikkim Tourism here is less about comfort and more about presence. South Sikkim attracts fewer tourists but holds some of the most important cultural sites. Namchi, the district headquarters, has the massive statue of Guru Padmasambhava on Samdruptse Hill. Temi Tea Garden, the state's only tea estate, offers walks among rolling hills and green rows that seem painted on the land. For those interested in religious history, Char Dham and the Siddheswar Dham complex in Namchi blend pilgrimage and architecture with quiet hill views. If Sikkim Tourism has a spiritual side, it resides in West Sikkim. Pelling, a small town, is home to Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most revered in the region. From here, the views of Kanchenjunga—India's second-highest peak—are breathtaking on clear mornings. Khecheopalri Lake, sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus, lies quietly in this region. The lake is never allowed to be disturbed; even leaves are said to be swept away by birds. This region teaches patience and rewards it with depth. The famous Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) and Nathu La Pass to the China border fall under East Sikkim. These spots are frequently visited under Sikkim Tourism due to their iconic status and easy reach from Gangtok. Tsomgo Lake changes color with seasons—sometimes blue, sometimes icy white. Nathu La, if open to tourists on specific days, is a reminder of Sikkim's location at the edge of India. The crisp air and waving flags make these spots more than just checkpoints—they are landmarks of pride. Sikkim's food is clean, local, and deeply influenced by its geography. You'll find dishes like Phagshapa (pork with radish), gundruk soup (fermented leafy greens), and the famous momo served at street corners and homestays alike. The food here tells a story—of highlands, resourcefulness, and community. The cultural blend of Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalese communities gives Sikkim Tourism its emotional tone. Festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year), Pang Lhabsol (honoring the mountain guardian), and Tihar (like Diwali) are all celebrated with spirit. Due to its proximity to international borders, Sikkim requires permits for many regions, especially for non-Indian nationals. The Protected Area Permit (PAP) and Inner Line Permit (ILP) are handled easily by tour operators and government counters. What adds true value to Sikkim Tourism is the state's approach to conservation. Plastic is banned. Homestays are encouraged over large hotels. Locals participate in every aspect of tourism—from guiding to cooking. As a traveler, it's essential to match that respect. Avoid litter, stay with locals when possible, and engage rather than consume. No trip through Sikkim Tourism is complete without stopping at local markets. The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom in Gangtok is a great place to understand and buy local crafts—thangkas (painted scrolls), wool carpets, carved wooden tables, and handmade paper products. Rural weekly markets in smaller towns are also treasure troves. Instead of souvenirs, you'll find hand-woven items, organic honey, and pickles passed through generations. Monasteries in Sikkim are more than religious structures—they're silent keepers of time. Rumtek Monastery, the largest, is colorful and calm. Enchey Monastery sits close to Gangtok but feels miles away from noise. Tashiding Monastery, in the west, requires a small trek but the quiet at the top is worth it. Each monastery has chants, murals, and incense that wrap you in a feeling both warm and humbling. Spiritual tourism is not a buzzword here—it's woven into daily life. Though it's often seen as a calm destination, Sikkim Tourism also includes rugged treks and river thrills. The Goechala Trek is popular among serious hikers—it takes you close to Kanchenjunga and through dense forests, rhododendron trails, and alpine lakes. White-water rafting on the Teesta River and paragliding near Gangtok are available for those looking for action. Mountain biking, especially in the South and West districts, is slowly growing. One of the strongest pillars of Sikkim Tourism is its village homestay movement. Places like Dzongu (a Lepcha reserve), Yuksom, and Kewzing offer stays with local families. These homes may not offer room service, but they give you priceless conversations, homemade food, and insight into real life in the hills. Waking up to wood-fired kitchens, stepping out to fields, and sitting on wooden porches under starry skies—that's what many find more memorable than hotel stays. Sikkim is India's first fully organic state. No chemical fertilizers, no pesticides. From cabbage to cardamom, what grows here is clean and cared for. The government has strict rules against deforestation and plastic use. Solar lights, composting toilets, and rainwater harvesting are becoming common, even in villages. These efforts make Sikkim Tourism sustainable—not just in brochures but in action. As a visitor, supporting this effort by traveling light and shopping local helps sustain what makes the place special. The real essence of Sikkim Tourism isn't captured in one destination or picture. It's felt when you walk slow, eat slow, and listen more than you speak. It's in the wind chimes at a monastery gate, in the eyes of a smiling yak herder, and in the silent snow that falls on a remote trail. This is not a place to tick off a list. It's a place to pause. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
16-06-2025
- Time Business News
8 Things to Do in Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang, known as the 'Forbidden Kingdom,' is one of the last strongholds of Tibetan culture and heritage. Tucked away in the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal, this remote area was once a part of the ancient Tibetan kingdom and remained isolated from the outside world until the early 1990s. Today, Upper Mustang offers a rare blend of dramatic desert landscapes, ancient Buddhist monasteries, mysterious sky caves, and preserved medieval towns. If you're planning an Upper Mustang Luxury Tour, here are eight unforgettable things to do. Your journey to Upper Mustang begins through the Kali Gandaki Valley, the deepest gorge in the world, nestled between the towering peaks of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Annapurna I (8,091 m). Stop at villages like Ghasa and Naurikot to witness the dramatic transformation in landscapes and soak in mesmerizing sunsets over snow-capped peaks. Muktinath is a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its sacred water spouts and the eternal flame that symbolizes the unity of the elements. Nearby, the village of Lubra is one of the last remaining Bonpo settlements, preserving pre-Buddhist spiritual traditions. Kagbeni, located at the gateway of Upper Mustang, boasts ancient alleyways and one of the region's oldest monasteries. This sacred cave, tucked into a sandstone cliff, is believed to have been used by Guru Padmasambhava for meditation. It houses monks' quarters, a prayer room, and several self-arisen images. Its peaceful, remote location and spiritual importance make it a powerful place to visit. Take a detour to explore the less-traveled eastern corridor of Mustang, home to the ancient cave monasteries of Luri Gonpa and Tashi Kabum. These hidden gems feature 15th-century murals and beautifully preserved stupas, surrounded by strikingly eroded cliffs and multi-colored landscapes sculpted by wind and time. Ghar Gompa (Lo Gekar) is considered one of the oldest Tibetan monasteries. Legend has it that it was built on the heart of a demoness defeated by Guru Padmasambhava. The nearby village of Tsarang, once Mustang's capital, features the ruins of a royal palace and an imposing red Gompa from the 14th century. Upper Mustang is still home to nomadic families who move seasonally with their herds. Visit their traditional yak-hair tents early in the morning, sip butter tea, and listen to stories of survival and tradition passed down through generations. It's a rare cultural exchange that brings you face-to-face with a vanishing way of life. The ancient capital of Lo Manthang is surrounded by six-meter-high walls built to protect its inhabitants. Inside, you'll find around 150 households, winding alleys, whitewashed homes, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Don't miss Thubchen Gompa, a 15th-century monastery adorned with vivid murals and sacred relics. A trip to the remote village of Chhoser reveals homes still using caves for storage and animal shelter. Nifu Gonpa appears carved directly into the cliffside, while the Shija Jhong cave (also known as Chhoser Cave) contains over 40 rooms spread across five levels, offering a glimpse into prehistoric cave dwelling. Planning a trek in Upper Mustang doesn't mean you have to sacrifice comfort. With expert guides, cozy boutique lodges, and private transport, an Upper Mustang Luxury Tour allows you to fully immerse yourself in Mustang's beauty and culture—without the physical strain of traditional trekking. For more details or to plan your Upper Mustang Luxury Tour: 📞 WhatsApp: +977-9826166085📧 Email: info@ 🌐 Website: TIME BUSINESS NEWS
