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India.com
a day ago
- India.com
Look At Some Heart-Racing Adventures in Darjeeling That Will Push Your Limits and Excite Your Soul
Darjeeling isn't just about tea estates and toy about that pulse that quickens when you look down from a cliff. That rush when wind slaps your face mid-air. That tingle in your chest when you hear your own heartbeat louder than the world. Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling has always been painted as a postcard town: misty mornings, monks chanting, steam engines whistling. But beyond its postcard charm lies another Darjeeling—a wilder, bolder one that doesn't sip tea. It gulps adrenaline. This isn't the Darjeeling your guidebook shows. This is the Darjeeling that dares you. What Makes Darjeeling Different for Adventure Seekers? Adventure in Darjeeling isn't just about the activity. It's about the else do you paraglide with Kanchenjunga staring back? Or raft on rivers that carry Himalayan snowmelt? Or trek through forests that smell of rhododendrons and history at once? Unlike the commercial hubs of North India where adventure often feels curated, Darjeeling is still raw. It has trails that locals still whisper about, rivers that change mood with every turn, and skies that make you feel like you've walked into a dream you can't wake up from. Here, adventure isn't escape. It's immersion. 1. Paragliding – Flying with the Himalayas Forget the cable cars. If you want to see Darjeeling from above, strap into a points around Tukvar or Lebong open up skies where Kanchenjunga isn't just a backdrop—it's a co-passenger. The wind carries you over emerald tea gardens, colonial rooftops, and winding Himalayan roads. Beneath you, toy trains look like sketches, rivers like silver in that suspended silence between earth and sky, you learn what freedom tastes like. Best time: October to AprilPro tip: Mornings offer gentler winds. Afternoons are for thrill-seekers. 2. White-Water Rafting on the Teesta – The River That Doesn't Sleep If Darjeeling is tea, the Teesta is wild river, fed by glaciers, doesn't believe in calm. It tumbles, crashes, roars—inviting you to test if your spirit is as unshakable as its waves. Rafting here is not for the faint-hearted. Grade 2 to Grade 4 rapids toss you like a toy. Water sprays sting your face. And between gasps of adrenaline, you glance up: the forests are thick, the sky impossibly blue, and somewhere, prayer flags flutter like tiny victories. Best time: March–June, October–DecemberPro tip: Beginners can start with Kalimpong stretches. Veterans should take on Tarkhola–Kali Jhora. 3. Trekking to Sandakphu – Walking on the Edge of the World Sandakphu isn't just a trek. It's a pilgrimage for the 11,941 ft, it's the highest point in West Bengal, where four of the five tallest peaks in the world—Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu—line up like gods in attendance. The trail takes you through Singalila National Park, where red pandas hide among mossy branches and rhododendrons set the forest on fire. The path is steep, the nights freezing, the climbs when dawn breaks at Sandakphu, and the Sleeping Buddha (Kanchenjunga range) glows golden, you realize: some struggles aren't burdens. They're blessings. Best time: April–May, October–NovemberPro tip: Carry warm gear—even in spring, the winds bite. 4. Mountain Biking – Roads that Test and Reward Darjeeling's winding roads aren't just for jeeps. They're battlegrounds for mountain manicured trails cutting through tea gardens to rugged forest paths that seem to vanish into mist, biking here is equal parts challenge and therapy. Ride down from Darjeeling to Kurseong, or brave the trails around Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary. Every turn is both risk and muscles burn, your lungs protest, but when Kanchenjunga peeks through the clouds as if cheering you on—you forget the pain. Best time: March–May, September–NovemberPro tip: Local rental shops provide both bikes and guides. Always wear protective gear—the slopes don't forgive carelessness. 5. Rock Climbing & Rappelling at Tenzing Rock – Testing Grip Against Granite Named after Tenzing Norgay, the legendary Sherpa, this natural rock is no tourist gimmick. It's where amateurs learn the ropes and professionals sharpen their skills. The granite surface is unforgiving, your fingers search for holds, your feet for balance. Every slip is a lesson. Every climb, a as you rappel down, adrenaline still rushing, you understand why this rock is more than stone. It's a rite of passage. Best time: Year-roundPro tip: Local mountaineering institutes provide gear and supervision. 6. Camping Under the Stars – Nights that Hum with Mystery Adventure isn't always loud. Sometimes, it camp near Tonglu or Tumling after a day's trek. As night falls, the forests fall silent except for the crackle of your fire and the distant call of a Himalayan owl. The sky in Darjeeling isn't like city skies. Here, it's a canvas spattered with stars so sharp they feel within reach. And as you sip tea from a metal flask, warmth seeping into cold fingers, you realize: not all adrenaline comes from speed. Some comes from stillness too. Why Choose Darjeeling for Your Next Adventure? Because it's not just about thrill. It's about in Darjeeling isn't staged—it's symbiotic. You aren't just rafting, you're listening to the Teesta's ancient songs. You aren't just trekking, you're walking a path monks once took. You aren't just flying, you're sharing skies with the Himalayas. And unlike many tourist-packed destinations, Darjeeling still guards its secrets. It lets you earn your experiences. It rewards patience, respect, and curiosity. Practical Tips for Thrill-Seekers Gear Up Smart – Quick-dry clothes, sturdy shoes, layered jackets. The Himalayas are moody. Trust Local Guides – They know the trails, the rivers, the winds better than any app. Respect Nature – Don't litter, don't disturb wildlife, and carry back what you carry in. Train Your Body – Most adventures demand stamina. Prepare before you arrive. Stay Hydrated, Stay Humble – Altitude can play tricks. Listen to your body. Summary Darjeeling isn't just a retreat. It's a courage, of endurance, of how far you're willing to go beyond your comfort zone. While tourists line up for sunrise at Tiger Hill, you could be mid-air, mid-rapid, or mid-climb, writing your own Himalayan story. A story that isn't about sipping tea on a balcony, but about gulping the raw, wild air of the Eastern Himalayas. So the next time you plan a getaway, don't just look at Darjeeling. Leap into here, adrenaline isn't optional. It's the way the land breathes.
News18
09-07-2025
- Politics
- News18
Who Is Qatari Princess, The New Brand Ambassador For ‘Pakistan's Mountains And Tourism'?
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Sheikha Asma Al Thani for her recent feat of scaling Nanga Parbat. Days after Qatari royal and elite mountaineer Sheikha Asma Al Thani successfully scaled Nanga Parbat in Gilgit-Baltistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appointed her as Pakistan's brand ambassador for mountains and tourism. Sharif also congratulated her on the inspiring feat with a message on X (formerly Twitter). His message read, 'Her achievement sends a powerful message of courage and determination and stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Qatar." 🇵🇰 Majestic mountain ⛰️ calling!I am pleased to appoint Her Highness Sheikha Asma Al Thani as the Brand Ambassador for Pakistan's Mountains and Tourism. My heartfelt felicitations to Her Highness on her recent feat of scaling Nanga Parbat. It is truly inspiring! Her… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) July 8, 2025 Who is Qatari royal Sheikha Asma Al Thani? A mountaineer by passion, Sheikha Asma Al Thani is a member of the ruling family of Qatar. She has been a pioneer for Qatari women and is deputed as the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Qatar Olympic Committee. Her love for mountaineering has earned her several records, including being the first Qatari woman to summit Mount Everest. She has also partnered with the UNHCR, waving their flag to raise her voice and concern for the refugees. After her expedition to Mount Everest in June 2022, she shared in her post, 'As I was pushing my limits to reach the top, I couldn't help but think of the millions of refugees who embark on dangerous journeys to reach safety. More than 100 million people around the world have been forced out of their homes by conflict, violence, and persecution. An alarming reality and a sad milestone we never wanted to reach." The UNHCR describes her as 'an adventurer at heart and a humanitarian by nature'. In her passion and love for mountaineering, she has recently summited Nanga Parbat, also known as the 'Killer Mountain'. Located in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region, the peak is 8,126 metres high. It is one of the deadliest mountain peaks to climb, given the harsh weather conditions. Before this achievement, she had climbed Mount Everest, K2, and Makalu. On all her expeditions, she displays her advocacy for refugees. In one of her previous posts, she wrote, 'Every time I raise the UNHCR flag on a summit, I think of the more than 120 million people around the world who've been forced to flee their homes." First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Business Recorder
24-05-2025
- Business Recorder
Naila Kiani summits Kanchenjunga
LAHORE: Pakistani mountaineer, Naila Kiani, has successfully summited Kanchenjunga (8,586m)—the world's third highest mountain, becoming the first Pakistani woman to conquer this formidable peak. With this milestone, Naila now stands among an elite group of global mountaineers, having scaled 12 out of the world's 14 highest peaks above 8,000 meters, continuing her unprecedented journey of defying limits. With just two summits remaining, she is edging closer to becoming one of only 17 women in the world to have conquered all 14 of the planet's 8,000-meter giants. Naila is not only a climber but a change-maker. She has led environmental campaigns, such as a high-altitude cleanup at K2, and a recovery mission for Pakistani porter Muhammad Hassan Shigri, bringing closure to his grieving family. As a mother of two, a former banker, and a passionate advocate for sustainable climbing, Naila Kiani defies traditional molds and inspires a new generation of Pakistanis, especially young women, to dream beyond the boundaries placed before them. Naila Kiani's rise in the mountaineering world is as inspiring as it is unprecedented. From her first successful summit of Gasherbrum II—achieved while balancing a demanding career in finance and the responsibilities of motherhood—to conquering giants such as Everest, K2, Lhotse, Annapurna I, and Makalu, she has consistently defied the odds and broken barriers. In just under three years, she became the first Pakistani woman to summit 11 of the world's highest peaks above 8,000 meters. These include K2 (8,611m), known as the savage mountain and Pakistan's tallest peak; Everest (8,848m), the highest peak in the world; Lhotse (8,516m); Makalu (8,485m); Annapurna I (8,091m); as well as Broad Peak, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Gasherbrum I and II, and Nanga Parbat. In 2023 alone, she achieved the extraordinary feat of summiting seven 8,000-meter peaks within just six months, placing her in the company of only a handful of climbers worldwide to have accomplished such a milestone in a single climbing season. Behind Naila's extraordinary pursuit of the world's highest peaks stands a consistent force—the BARD Foundation. Their continued support is not just a partnership, but a commitment to seeing her through to the summit and beyond. Mehreen Dawood, Member – Board of Governors, shared, 'Naila represents the very spirit we aim to nurture at BARD: resilience, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. Her summits are not just personal victories—they are milestones for all Pakistani women. We are proud to support her journey and amplify the impact she continues to make globally.' Abdul Razak Dawood, President – BARD Foundation said, 'What Naila has achieved is historic. Her drive, integrity, and purpose embody the values of the BARD Foundation. We believe in backing talent that breaks barriers, and Naila is the perfect example of what can be accomplished when ambition meets opportunity.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
23-05-2025
- Express Tribune
12 down, 2 to go: Naila Kiani summits Kanchenjunga
Listen to article Pakistan's pride and mountaineering icon, Naila Kiani, has successfully summited Kanchenjunga (8,586m)—the world's third highest mountain, becoming the first Pakistani woman to conquer this formidable peak. With this milestone, Naila now stands among an elite group of global mountaineers, having scaled 12 out of the world's 14 highest peaks above 8,000 meters, continuing her unprecedented journey of defying limits. With just two summits remaining, she is edging closer to becoming one of only 17 women in the world to have conquered all 14 of the planet's 8,000-meter giants. Naila is not only a climber but a change-maker. She has led environmental campaigns, such as a high-altitude cleanup at K2, and a recovery mission for Pakistani porter Muhammad Hassan Shigri, bringing closure to his grieving family. As a mother of two, a former banker, and a passionate advocate for sustainable climbing, Naila Kiani defies traditional molds and inspires a new generation of Pakistanis, especially young women, to dream beyond the boundaries placed before them. Naila Kiani's rise in the mountaineering world is as inspiring as it is unprecedented. From her first successful summit of Gasherbrum II—achieved while balancing a demanding career in finance and the responsibilities of motherhood—to conquering giants such as Everest, K2, Lhotse, Annapurna I, and Makalu, she has consistently defied the odds and broken barriers. In just under three years, she became the first Pakistani woman to summit 11 of the world's highest peaks above 8,000 meters. These include K2 (8,611m), known as the savage mountain and Pakistan's tallest peak; Everest (8,848m), the highest peak in the world; Lhotse (8,516m); Makalu (8,485m); Annapurna I (8,091m); as well as Broad Peak, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Gasherbrum I and II, and Nanga Parbat. In 2023 alone, she achieved the extraordinary feat of summiting seven 8,000-meter peaks within just six months, placing her in the company of only a handful of climbers worldwide to have accomplished such a milestone in a single climbing season. Behind Naila's extraordinary pursuit of the world's highest peaks stands a consistent force—the BARD Foundation. Their continued support is not just a partnership, but a commitment to seeing her through to the summit and beyond. Mehreen Dawood, Member – Board of Governors, shared: 'Naila represents the very spirit we aim to nurture at BARD: resilience, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. Her summits are not just personal victories—they are milestones for all Pakistani women. We are proud to support her journey and amplify the impact she continues to make globally.' Abdul Razak Dawood, President – BARD Foundation said: 'What Naila has achieved is historic. Her drive, integrity, and purpose embody the values of the BARD Foundation. We believe in backing talent that breaks barriers, and Naila is the perfect example of what can be accomplished when ambition meets opportunity.' Now, with only two 8,000-meter peaks left to summit—Cho Oyu and Shishapangma—Naila is within striking distance of completing all 14 of the world's highest peaks, a dream few have dared to chase and even fewer have achieved.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
JBL's Summit Series of speakers has 3 new models
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. JBL has launched three new pairs of high-end speakers in its flagship Summit Series: Makalu, Pumori and Ama. Appropriately launching at High End Munich 2025, these join the existing Everest and the five-star K2 speakers. Like their forebears, each speaker is named after a Himalayan peak. And each promises a suitably large-scale performance, with heavily-braced cabinets, binding posts wrapped in carbon fibre and plated in rhodium. They also boast JBL's MultiCap crossover network, which promises to maintain purity and performance throughout the audio chain, and JBL IsoAcoustics adjustable isolation feet. Let's go climbing. The top of the range of is Summit Makalu, named after the world's fifth-highest mountain that's just 12 miles from Everest (the mountain, not the JBL speaker). A three-way floorstander, the Makalu is designed to "anchor large, immersive listening spaces with deep, articulate bass and soaring midrange detail", according to JBL. Inside are a 12-inch subwoofer and an 8-inch midrange driver that both use JBL's proprietary HC4 composite cones, alongside JBL's patented D2 compression driver and precision-moulded HDI Sonoglass horn, promising "stunning dynamics and crystal-clear imaging". It also promises to be a looker, with a contoured cabinet with a rich ebony veneer and gold accents or high-gloss piano black with platinum detailing. Summit Makalu cost £36,998 / $44,995 (around AU$77,000) per pair. Mount Pumori on the Nepal-China border is known as the daughter of Everest. Its namesake is another three-way floorstander whose speciality is musical balance and purity. It boasts a 10-inch woofer and an 8-inch midrange driver, along with the same D2 compression driver and HDI horn architecture as the Summit Makalu. It also has a softly contoured cabinet with luxurious finishes. Summit Pumori cost £26,998 / $29,995 (around AU$56,000) per pair. Ama Dablam is one of the Himalayas' most iconic and picturesque peaks – its name translates as 'Mother's Necklace'. The Summit Ama speaker is a two-way standmount that's more compact than its stablemates. It offers an 8-inch HC4 cone woofer, D2 compression driver and HDI horn, and promises "exceptional clarity, control, and coherence across the frequency spectrum". It comes with a matching steel-and-aluminium stand. Including stands, they cost £14,998 / $19,995 (around AU$31,000) per pair. Still, that's cheaper than the K2 speakers, which cost a cool £44,000 when we reviewed them back in 2017. We considered them one of the best speakers money can buy, praising their "spellbinding combination of dynamics, insight and finesse". Let's hope the new trio live up to such grand heights. MORE: Read our JBL K2 S9900 review Check out the best 39 hi-fi speakers of What Hi-Fi?'s lifetime Here are the best hi-fi speakers around
