Shivam Chandra
Bio
I'm a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, and travel blogger who has trekked across Uttarakhand, Himachal, Ladakh, and Nepal. Exploring new places and discovering hidden trails is what inspires me.
Stories (8)
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Top 5 Treks for Beginners in Uttarakhand, India
Uttarakhand, often called the Land of Gods, is a dream destination for trekking enthusiasts. With its rolling meadows, sparkling rivers, dense forests, and mighty Himalayan peaks, it offers some of the most scenic and beginner-friendly treks in India. If you're new to trekking or planning your first Himalayan adventure, Uttarakhand has plenty of safe, well-marked, and breathtaking trails to choose from.
By Shivam Chandra2 months ago in Wander
Valley of Flowers Trek, Uttarakhand: An Ultimate Guide to Best Time, Route, Difficulty Blooming Season & More
Nestled in the serene Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, the Valley of Flowers is a mesmerizing jewel that comes alive with an explosion of colors during the monsoon season. Situated approximately 300 kilometers north of Rishikesh, near the sacred town of Badrinath, this enchanting valley lies within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, forming one of its two pristine core zones. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of Flowers National Park is globally celebrated for its diverse and rare flora and fauna, making it a magnet for botanists, researchers, and adventurers alike.
By Shivam Chandra7 months ago in Earth
An Ultimate Guide to Hampta Pass Weather and Temperature
Hampta Pass sits at about 4,290 m (~14,100 ft) in the western Himalayas, so Hampta Pass weather is strongly influenced by high altitude. The pass forms a climatic divide - it forces moist monsoon air to drop heavy rain and snow on the Kullu Manali side, while creating a rain-shadow toward Lahaul which lies within Pir Panjal mountain range. As a result, Hampta sees extreme alpine conditions with warm sunny days briefly in summer but plunging cold by night. Trekkers often report that Hampta Pass feels much colder than other Himalayan treks at lower elevations. In fact, winter temperatures at the highest camps can dip to minus 15 degrees Celsius or lower. In contrast, summer days can reach the low double-digits in degrees Celsius before evening frost sets in. This guide covers year-round trends in Hampta Pass temperature and precipitation so trekkers can plan gear and timing for a safe journey.
By Shivam Chandra7 months ago in Earth
Living in the Heights: Daily Life in Himalayan Villages of Himachal Pradesh
In the far reaches of Himachal Pradesh, tucked between towering peaks and forested slopes, lies a world that beats to the rhythm of tradition, nature, and quiet perseverance. The lifestyle of villages in Himachal Pradesh is not just different—it's a living example of coexistence with the natural world. Life in these Himalayan hamlets is slow yet meaningful, with a deep connection to the land, the seasons, and centuries-old customs that remain untouched by rapid urbanization. Understanding the lifestyle of villages nestled in the high Himalayas offers a glimpse into a world where survival and culture go hand in hand.
By Shivam Chandra8 months ago in Lifehack
My Top 5 Hiking Destinations in Himachal Pradesh, India
If you’ve ever felt that urge to leave everything behind, grab your backpack, and walk into the wild mountains, then the Land of Snow "Himachal Pradesh" is probably already on your radar. This Indian Himalayan state is a dream for anyone who loves hiking, whether you’re a first-time backpacker, an experienced mountaineer, or an adventure lover who craves high-altitude thrill.
By Shivam Chandra9 months ago in Lifehack
Auden Col Trek: One of the Most Difficult Treks in India
Auden's Col may not be widely known, but it holds significant prominence in Indian literature and mountaineering. Standing at an elevation of 5,242 meters, it separates the Jogin I and Gangotri III peaks while also linking the Rudragaira and Bhilangna Valleys. Additionally, this high-altitude pass is nestled between two massive glaciers—Khatling and Jogin I. It was first discovered by John Bicknell Auden, a renowned geologist and explorer, who became the first to cross it from the Rudragaira side and descend to Kedarnath in 1939. As a result, the pass was named in his honor. With such an abundance of natural wonders, Auden's Col offers the true thrill of a mountaineering expedition, making it highly significant in the mountaineering world.
By Shivam Chandra11 months ago in Journal
Auden Col Trek: A Detailed Route Map Guide to Unforgettable Himalayan Expedition
The trek route map taken during the Auden Col Trek follows: Rishikesh → Gangotri → Nala Camp → Rudragaira Base Camp → Auden Col Base Camp → Auden Col → Khatling Glacier Camp → Zero Point → Chowki → Masar Tal → Mayali Pass → Vasuki Tal → Kedarnath → Gauri Kund → Rishikesh
By Shivam Chandra11 months ago in Journal
Challenging Terrain and Difficult Climbing of Auden Col
Hello, intrepid explorers and adventure enthusiasts! You will reach 5,490 meters (18,010 feet) elevation when standing within the divine Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand India's sublime region. Visitors to Auden Col will encounter a high-altitude mountain pass which requires intense focus on endurance as well as control and skill throughout the entire journey. From the Rudragaira Valley to the Bhilangana Valley the famous Auden Col connects these two regions while presenting unparalleled vistas of spectacular mountain peaks including Jogin I and Gangotri III and Kedarnath. Situated between Khatling and Jogin I glaciers the Auden Col offers more than a hike through mountains because this challenging pathway represents human motivation and scientific discovery. Mountaineers worldwide consider this trail which John Bicknell Auden first opened in 1939 to be one of the premier locations for experiencing true physical and psychological adversity.
By Shivam Chandra12 months ago in Wander
