We’re back with the ‘weekend music mayhem’ but with a twist – this time the event is on Sunday! So, ‘no excuses’ for not being there… or being square!

Save the Date: Sunday, 11 July
Time: 5 – 7 pm sharp
Place: Kunzum Travel Café; T-49, GF, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi 110016; +91.11.2651 3949, +91.9650 702 777 (Last left turn before the monument)
Who: An upcoming music group called ‘Pratham’

About the band
“In an era where Western Rock and Heavy metal rule the roost in the music industry, we have formed Pratham whose main objective is to revive the tradition and the root of Indian music through songs which belong to genres like Sufi, Semi classical, Fusion and Indian Soft Rock. We are passionate about music and we live in music and love playing it. We live in the world of music. We Play any song but differently and with a magic of feelings in the song.” - Pratham

GO WILD WITH CANON & NATURE WANDERERS
Editing and Post Processing Workshop
July 17, 2010, Canon Image Lounge, Ambience Mall, Gurgaon

Nature and wildlife photography is all about patience and post processing plays an important role in giving your photographs a fine edge by making them look neater. Nature Wanderers and Canon is pleased to kick-start season 2010-2011 of the Go Wild series with a workshop that would help you to edit your photos and make them look more presentable.

Workshop Snapshots

• Learn how to use Canon Digital Post Processing
• Photoshop tips and tricks
  • Basic Photoshop tools and their usage
  • Advanced usage
• Watermarking of images
• Usage in the online world

Program Trainers

Prashanth Vishwanathan
Inspired by the masters and their legacy, photojournalist cum travel enthusiast, Prashanth Vishwanathan photographs life and times he witnesses through his censor.  Based in New Delhi, he has been shooting news events and social cum travel stories all over the country. He contributes to various international news agencies and his work has been published in international magazines and newspapers like New York Times, International Herald Tribune, Time Magazine and others. Presently he is working on long term stories in India. His work is showcased in the website, www.prashanthpix.com.

Shivang Mehta
Shivang started shooting nature and wildlife 7 years ago and in a short span of time his art and creativity gained him a lot of respect from stalwarts in the field of wildlife. He started his professional career as a journalist and moved into PR where he worked for leading edge companies like Bharti Telesoft, Evalueserve and Google. In 2006/07 Shivang’s work got multiple honorary mentions at the Nature Conservancy Awards – organised by the Nature Conservancy magazine based out of UK. His work has also been used by publications like Outlook Traveller, Mail Today, Swagat, Discover India and Femina. In addition to this conservation focused forums like the Mahaseer Conservancy Society and Dhikala Eco-Tourism Camp have also used his photographs. Visit his online album – www.flickr.com/photos/shivangmehta.

The workshop is being conducted in association with Kunzum.com, India’s leading travel blog mag, publisher of travel books and curator of photographic art.

Course Fee – INR 2000/-

Registration Details:

• Please write to info@naturewanderers.com for confirming your registration
• Registration would be on first come first serve basis. Seating capacity per batch – 10
• Program to start from 2pm onwards
• In case a batch of 10 is filled, the registration would be for the second batch that starts at 6 pm

Please bring your laptops and sample pictures (RAW and JPEGs)

Payment procedure:
* Bank transfer – JOLLY PRODUCTIONS – HDFC Charmwood Village Branch – 03962000004291 (Current Account)
* Cheques can be dropped at the Kunzum Travel Café, T-49, GF, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi +91.11.2651 3949, +91.9650702777 (Last left turn before the monument), Tuesday – Sunday, 12:00 – 7 pm
* Registration will be confirmed post payment of registration fee
* Registration fee is non-refundable

For more information please call:
Mr. Shivang Mehta
Wildlife Photographer / Founder
Nature Wanderers
+91 9873914780 / +91 9871384780

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Image of a Delhi Drum Circles musician at one of their performances in Deer Park

Save the Date: Saturday, 3rd July
Time: 5 – 7 pm sharp (you don’t want to miss this! – before you rush off to watch Argentina vs Germany)
Place: Kunzum Travel Café; T-49, GF, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi 110016; +91.11.2651 3949, +91.9650 702 777 (Last left turn before the monument)
Who: ‘Delhi Drum Circles’ (oh yes! you better believe it and be there)

Margot Bigg, Rakesh Mathur, Yogesh Kumar Badobaria, Anisa Nariman are a few of the names behind ‘Delhi Drum Circles,’ which is fast becoming an average Dilliwalah’s favourite thing to do, once a fortnight at the Deer Park (Hauz Khas side). This is where, anyone who’s musically inclined, can join in for a heartfelt jam session with or without a percussion instrument of choice or other acoustic instruments as well.

Come Saturday – a few of ‘Delhi Drum Circles’ regulars (like Rakesh Mathur)  are going to jam at the Kunzum Travel Café for some pure, uninhibited, relentless… fun! So,… uh, like we said before, you really don’t want to miss this!

See you there then!

Photography workshop by Canon along with Nature wanderers.

Go Wild with Canon and Nature Wanderers – Calendar 2010-2011
Does nature and wildlife photography fascinate you? Are you looking for a platform to learn from and network with nature photographers? Do you shoot great pictures and want to showcase your skills to the world?

Canon along with Nature Wanderers brings to you a series of exciting photography cum nature workshops that give you the opportunity to explore and shoot the unique wilderness of India. Be a part of the Go Wild series that comprise FOUR highly informative and thrilling workshops and of-course CANON WILD CLICKS – Edition II (India’s only Live photography contest) – that would test your skills as a photographer in defined situations in the wild.

Just pick and choose your preferred event, block your calendar and avail early registration discounts!

The ‘Go Wild’ Calendar

17th July 2010
Workshop on post-processing of wildlife and nature shots using
Canon DPP and Photoshop in Delhi
Registration fee – INR 2000

21-23 October, 2010
Go Wild Workshop in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (2 nights 3 days)
Normal Registration – INR 9000
Early Registration – INR 8500

19-22 November, 2010
Go Wild Workshop in Corbett National Park – Dhikala zone (3 nights,  4 days)
Normal Registration – INR 17000
Early Registration – INR 15300

26-29 January, 2011
Canon Wild Clicks – Edition II in Ranthambore National Park (India’s only LIVE photography contest – 3 nights 4 days)
Normal Registration – INR 20000
Early Registration – INR 18000

19-23 February, 2011
Go Wild Workshop in Kaziranga National Park (4 nights 5 day)
Normal Registration – INR 20000
Early Registration – INR 18000

April, 2011 (date to be announced)
Go Wild Workshop in Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks (4 nights, 5 days)
Normal Registration INR 25000
Early Registration INR 22500
Cost inclusive of workshop registration, accommodation in luxury resorts across all national parks, all meals, gypsy safaris, guide and naturalists fees, elephant safari (if applicable), park entry fees, pick and drop, inter-park transfers in case 2 destinations are covered.

Above cost is for Indian nationals. Participants can pay 50% of the fees as booking advance and the remaining 50% prior to departure for a particular event. Registration fees is non-refundable.

Event Snapshots

• Workshops to include photography tips
• Sessions on knowing your camera
• Wildlife film shows
• Interactions with ace naturalists, environmentalists and photographers
• Tiger workshops – learn about tiger behaviour from our experts
• Events open for non-Canon users
• Network & Learn – Ongoing discussions with fellow photographers
• Test Canon equipments by using our demo Canon DSLR bodies and lenses
• Touch and Feel of the dream Canon equipments (high end bodies and lenses)
• Special discounts on Canon equipments for workshop participants
• NW-Canon events are covered by leading media groups (including photography magazines) and participant pictures are displayed in print & electronic media

Early registration ends on August 31, 2010

For queries, please contact: info@naturewanderers.com or call +91 9871367945 / +91 9871384780

Our Partners

• Earth Matters Foundation

• Kunzum – India’s leading travel blog

• Infinity Group of Resorts

View event details… http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1361/4729279331_e3c8e06162_b.jpg

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Just wanted to let you know that we’ve just launched a ‘Travel Café’! (We hate to brag but it ‘is’ one of its kinds!). Check us out on http://kunzum.com/travelcafe. And we are opening it formally with a live gig on June 19. And you are invited.

What is a travel café you ask?!

Well, it’s a place where you can bum around, meet other travellers, exchange stories, make plans, read books, post travelogues & pictures, and even write books! You can also attend or hold events, buy travel books and photographic art – over coffee and cookies (where you pay what you like). And use free Wi-Fi!

Or you can simply sit back and enjoy as musicians jam around.

And, that’s EXACTLY what you can do this Saturday, June 19 from 5 – 7 pm.

Come and join us for a performance by the band ‘Beyond the Barriers’ – an alternative rock band that performs covers of Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Eagles, and many more such greats, along with their own compositions. At Kunzum, they will be doing an interesting acoustic set – with a swweeet little personal touch. Feel free to interact with us and the band whilst you’re there. There is no entry or cover charge.

And, conversations with Kunzum are powered by Shack Coffee!

See you Saturday June 19 at 5 then at the Kunzum Travel Café, T-49, GF, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi 110017. Call Umang or Shruti at 9650702777 / 2651 3949 for directions.

Would you like to join some heritage walks on the weekends in Delhi organized by INTACH or DELHI HERITAGE WALKS? They are really well organized, and led by highly informed people who really know their subject. (This is not an advertisement for INTACH or DELHI HERITAGE WALKS, but I am sharing this with you as I felt you could be interested.)

INTACH WALKS
As before, you need to register separately for each walk.  Email Intach at intachdelhi@rediffmail.com. If that is inconvenient then you may ring them the following numbers between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on working days: 24632267; 24632269; 24631818; extension- 105

Mehrauli Archaeological Park:
Day/ Date: Saturday, 19th June’10
Time: 8.00 am
Duration: 2 hrs approx.
Charges: Rs.50/- per person
The walk covers Balban’s tomb, Jamali Kamali’s mosque and tomb, Metcalfe’s bridge, Boathouse, Quli Khan’s tomb, Metcalfe’s Guest house, Rajon ki Baoli, Mosque and tomb, Serai , Maulana Majduddin’s tomb and Khan Shahid’s tomb.

DU Darshan:
Day/ Date: Sunday, 20th June’10
Time: 7.00 am
Duration: 2 hrs approx
Charges: Rs.150/- per person
North campus of Delhi University has a rich cultural heritage. To ensure that this rich cultural heritage is noticed and appreciated, SRCC-SIFE team has taken an initiative to organize regular weekend trips to visit these monuments.

Lodi Garden:
Day/Date: Sunday, 20th June’10
Time: 8.00 am
Duration: 1 and half hour approx.
Charges: Rs. 50/- per person
A beautiful landscaped garden set in the midst of New Delhi, this park contains some exquisite examples of medieval architecture.  There are Syed and Lodi tombs and mosques, a Mughal garden and mosque, and other scattered structures.

Hauz Khas:
Day/ Date: Sunday, 27th June’10
Time: 8.00 am
Duration: 2 hrs approx.
Charges: Rs. 50/- per person
The highlights of this area are the thirteenth century reservoir which has now been revived and teems with bird life; and the buildings of a renowned Madarsa beside which is also the tomb of its royal founder, Firoz Shah Tughlaq.  Several other
pavilions, tombs and mosques are to be found in the surrounding park.

DELHI HERITAGE WALKS

Hauz Khas:
Day/Date: Saturday,19th June’10
Time: 5.30 pm
Duration: 1 & ½ hours
Charges: Rs. 200

Chandni Chowk:
Day/Date: Sunday,20th June’10
Time: 7.30 am
Duration: approx. 2 hrs
Charges: Rs. 200

To know more about the Delhi Heritage Walks, look at their blog http://blog.delhiheritagewalks.com/

The Kunzum Travel Cafe

Here is the latest from your travel friends at Kunzum: we now have a Travel Cafe. A place to bum around, meet travellers, share travel stories, use free WiFi, enjoy fresh coffees and teas with cookies (you pay what you like), read travel books, check out books and photographic art curated by Kunzum and more. You could hang around all day and be under no obligation to buy anything. Like the idea? Read more about it here – and come over. We would love to talk travel with you.

Address: T-49, GF, Hauz Khas Village, New Delh 110016, India. Tel: +91.9650 702 777, +91.11.26513949
Timings: Tuesday – Sunday, 11 am – 7.30 pm

The Himalayan Marmot is the new mascot for Kunzum - Give it a name and win a book

The Himalayan Marmot is the new mascot for Kunzum.com.  Do you like him? But we want to give this cuddly mammal from the squirrel family a name. He has feelings too – and would like an identity of his own. Can you suggest one?

If you do, and we select it, you get to win a copy of Ajay Jain’s book, Postcards from Ladakh. Delivered anywhere in India where courier services work.

All answers must be left in the comments form only. And the competition is open till we find a suitable name. The early bird gets the book. Your time starts now!

Do you have a unique travel experience to share from India? Is it something you would like everyone to experience for themselves? Would you like to share it with us? To be published in a book with credit to you! Then read on…

WHAT KIND OF TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
It could be a place (natural, man-made), destination, food, event, a place to stay, an activity, adventure, wildlife, monument, road trips, treks or anything you cannot wait to tell others about. Has to be in India though.

FORMAT TO SEND IN
Send us a document in Word. With or without photographs. Write it in as lively a style as possible. Don’t worry about language – our editors will manage that. Important thing is what you are trying to say. Add useful info like how to get there, places to stay, any contact info, useful websites, best time to go, budget etc. Don’t forget to give us your full name, contact info and what you do. Send all mails to mail@kunzum.com.

WHAT WILL WE DO WITH YOUR SUBMISSION
Review it. If its exciting, we will include it in one of the forthcoming travel books on India. And also post on Kunzum.com. With credit to you as due. (Note: All credits in books go at the end).

WHAT DO YOU GET
Credit as mentioned. A copy of the book. And a certificate that you have made a contribution.

IS THERE ANY MONEY IN IT
If you are a professional writer / photographer, and prefer to work for paid assignments only, talk to us.

WANT TO WRITE YOUR OWN TRAVEL BOOK?
Do you have any ideas for a travel book? A travelogue, a guide, a coffee table book? Ping us with your ideas in strict confidence.

ABOUT KUNZUM
Kunzum started as a travel blog by Ajay Jain, went on to become a publishing label (two books already out), and even owns a photographic art gallery in New Delhi’s trendy Hauz Khas Village. We are now all set for our next leap of faith with the publication of more books including e-books, getting into travel related events and promotions, setting up an online travel TV show, a photo stock agency and more. See some of the current work at http://kunzum.com.

Books published so far
* Postcards from Ladakh: A pictorial travelogue on Ladakh (http://kunzum.com/postcardsfromladakh)
* Peep Peep Don’t Sleep: A collection of funny roads signs and ads in India. (http://PeepPeepDontSleep.com)

Go Wild with Canon – Bandhavgarh Edition
The Big Bs of BANDHAVGARH – May 27-29, 2010

Discover the secret lives of the striped wonders of India and get wild and up-close with the legendary tigers of Bandhavgarh National Park with Go Wild With Canon : a Nature Wanderers photography workshop that not only brings you face-to-face with the majestic wilderness of Madhya Pradesh but gives you a unique opportunity to network with leading photographers, naturalists and environmentalists.

Nature Wanderers (NW) in association with Kunzum.com announces the launch of it’s workshop in Bandhavgarh National Park that would give you a platform to learn the basics of photography and tips on nature and wildlife photography from experts from Canon and NW.

The workshop would also focus on tiger conservation and talks by experts like Mike Pandey who would be briefing you about importance of the tiger in the ecosystem and The Return of The Tiger (TROT) – his upcoming project aimed to create a mass awareness that would be key for the survival of the big cats in India.

Workshop in Brief

• Know your camera by Canon experts
• Tips & tricks – nature & wildlife photography
• Tiger Conservation sessions
• Touch & Feel of Canon Equipments

The Schedule
May 26, 2010
Departure from Delhi (train journey)

May 27, 2010 (Thursday)
- Arrival at Bandhavgarh National Park
- Canon workshop on knowing your camera
- Wildlife photography – tips and tricks by Shivang Mehta, Nature Photographer
- Tiger Workshop – conducted by Kahini Ghosh Mehta, Nature Wanderers
- TROT – An introduction and the Mike Pandey appeal

May 28, 2010 (Friday)
- A full day safari in the Tala Zone of Bandhavgarh National Park: The Tala zone of Bandhavgarh NP has the highest density of tigers in a particular zone of a forest in India and is home to some legendary tigers like B2, Bokha, Kalua – to name a few. A birding heaven, the tala zone is teaming with bird life including the exotic Malabar Pied Hornbill, a host of raptors including the Eagles, Buzzards, Owls and Vultures.
- Bandhavgarh also offers the opportunity for Tiger Shows where as photographers you get the opportunity to be upclose with the big cats on elephant backs.

May 29, 2010 (Saturday)
- Morning safari in the Tala Zone of Bandhavgarh National Park
- Check out
- Departure to Delhi

May 30, 2010 (Sunday)
- Arrival in Delhi (early morning)

Registration
- INR 9000/- per person
- Last Date of Registration – May 10, 2010
- Contact Nature Wanderers at +91 9871367945 and confirm your registration NOW! Limited Seats…

Inclusive of:
- Accommodation (on triple sharing basis) & stay at the luxurious AC rooms of Infinity Resorts right outside the park boundary of Bandhavgarh National Park
- 3 safaris in Bandhavgarh National Park
- Elephant rides in Bandhavgarh (based on a tiger show that is happening during one of 2 morning safaris being offered)
- Pick & drop from Katni railway station

Please Note:
- This registration fee is non-refundable
- Registration does not include the train fare
- Registration amount mentioned is for Indian nationals. Foreigners may contact NW for registration queries
- NW would be not be undertaking bookings of train tickets. You are requested to book your train ticket at the earliest because of the holiday rush

Our Partners – Earth Matters Foundation, Kunzum.com

If you love the idea of travel, Kunzum has some opportunities for you given below. You may come on board as a part time volunteer, an intern or an employee. If you are enterprising enough, we can even offer you a partnership. In other words, show us the will and capability and we will offer you an exciting career path.

About Kunzum first:
Kunzum started as a travel blog by Ajay Jain, went on to become a publishing label (two books already out), and even owns a photographic art gallery in New Delhi’s trendy Hauz Khas Village. We are now all set for our next leap of faith with the publication of more books including e-books, getting into travel related events and promotions, setting up an online travel TV show, a photo stock agency and more.

About the opportunities:
We need team members to carry out the following tasks. Don’t ask for any formal job descriptions and designations from us – after all, the best part of travel is discovering the unknown. Just take the plunge if it appeals to you:

- Travel reporters, researchers and editors
- Photographers
- Travel Videos: Need camera and editing skills
- Anchors for travel videos
- Designers
- Photo editors
- Sales, Marketing, PR & Events

All positions are Delhi based.

Are you game for it? Ping us with a formal or informal CV. And do tell us briefly about a wonderful travel experience you may have had.

Write to:
Ajay Jain
Email: ajay@ajayjain.com
Mobile: +91.99100 44476

UPDATE ON MARCH 16, 2010: Only 5 seats left. Grab them fast. 25 already confirmed.

CANON WILD CLICKS (Corbett National Park, April 2-4, 2010)
Are you interested in nature and wildlife photography? Have you sent entries to a photography contest and kept wondering why your photograph was not shortlisted? Do you always wonder what was missing in your photograph while entering a contest?

Canon in association with Nature Wanderers and Kunzum.com announces the launch of Canon Wild Clicks – India’s first LIVE photography contest in Corbett National Park (April 2-4, 2010) that aims to give a platform to amateur and hobbyist photographers to showcase their skills and mettle in a unique competition that will ensure an equal level play field for all participants.

With a cap on equipments being used, participants will be put in identical situations and shooting conditions in a defined time frame thus putting all participants on an equal platform. The winners will be chosen on the spot and will be rewarded instantaneously!

The contest will be judged by leading wildlife film-maker, photographer and conservationist – Mike Pandey who would also be having an interactive session with participants in Delhi.

The event is also supported by Earth Matters Foundation which is India’s leading NGO dedicated to environment and wildlife conservation under the guidance of Mike Pandey.

THE ITINERARY
Mike Pandey – India’s ace environmentalist and film-maker – to have an interactive session with participants on wildlife photography and tiger conservation before their departure to Corbett National Park

April 2, 2010
Spend the entire day with the Canon team and your dream Canon equipments. Get a chance to interact with ace wildlife photographers and learn more about Canon equipments. Use some of the high-end Canon bodies and lenses to shoot your favourite subjects in the majestic wilderness of Corbett Tiger Reserve.
Session by Kahini Ghosh Mehta, Ace Naturalist, Corbett TR, on understanding of Corbett and its topography

April 3, 2010

• Opening session of Canon Wild Clicks – Allotment of themes
• An early morning safari in the Sitabani Zone of Corbett Tiger Reserve (the only part of the forest that can be trekked on foot) – An excellent location for bird photography and shooting macros & abstracts
• An evening safari in Bijrani Zone of Corbett National Park – An apt location for sightings of tigers, elephants and other mammals like the cheetal, sambhar deer, barking deer and home to hundreds of bird species. The grasslands and picturesque landscaping of Bijrani offers a great setting for shooting landscapes as well.
• Participants to edit and submit entries along with a write up that tells the story behind the picture by 8:00 PM in the evening
• Entries will be uploaded by the Nature Wanderers team on the Canon Wild Clicks Community on Facebook and sent to Mike Pandey

April 4, 2010

• Announcement of winners in the presence of local and national media in Corbett National Park
• Prize Distribution Ceremony – Prizes over INR 100,000/- to be given!

Winning photographs to be showcased at Canon Image Lounge and the Kunzum Art Gallery and to be published in leading publications.

The Package
## Accommodation will be provide in a luxury camp in Corbett National Park on a twin sharing basis for 2 nights / 3 days. Cost inclusive of:
- Stay, breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Safari and other related costs
Cost does not include:
- Beverages
- Transportation from Delhi (NW Team will organise for cabs from Delhi for which the participants can share the costs
Please note that the rates mentioned are only for participants who are Indian residents. Non-Indians can contact NW separately for pricing queries.

CANON WILD CLICKS EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS
Participants may use a digital point & shoot / DSLR Camera with a
o Maximum of 15X zoom
o Maximum of 15 megapixel
Lens specifications for DSLRs:
o A maximum of 300mm
o Use of tele-converters is not allowed
Participants may carry their tripods, monopods, bean bags etc.
Canon will provide demo equipments in the form of bodies and lenses (that meet the equipments criterion for the contest) to participants who wish to use a DSLR and do not possess it.

PRIZES BY INFINITY RESORTS
Winner get a 3N4D stay at Infinity resorts Corbett
Theme winners (5)
They get a 2N3D stay at Infinity Resorts Bandhavgarh and Infinity Resorts Rann of Kutch

Registration Charges & Procedure
INR 9000/-
Registrations close on March 15, 2010
Limited Seats!

Contact:
Kahini Ghosh Mehta
Nature Wanderers
kahinighosh@rediffmail.com
+91 9871367945

Shivang Mehta
9873914780 / 9871384780
Wildlife and nature photographs on www.flickr.com/photos/shivangmehta
www.naturewanderers.com

The season’s first photography workshop in Corbett titled the ‘Corbett Expedition – Jan 2010’ organized by Nature Wanderers in association with Kunzum was attended by 19 participants from Delhi, Mumbai, Gurgaon and Bangalore. The workshop was conducted at Camp Wild Adventure by seasoned naturalist Kahini Ghosh Mehta. During the 2 day interactive session, the participants were given ample opportunities to try their hands at nature, bird, wildlife and abstract photography. In addition to 2 safaris in Corbett, the participants also did a trek through densely wooded forests to shoot subjects like leaves, trees, landscapes – to name a few.

The second edition of this season’s workshop by Nature Wanderers and Kunzum will be in the month of February / March 2010. The dates would be announced soon. Stay tuned to Kunzum for more details.

Cheers – Nature Wanderers Team (Shivang Mehta, Ankur Srivastava, Shourabh Ghosh, Somya Srivastava)

I am off to the Haridwar Mahakumbh Mela starting January 14. Will be there till January 17. Hope to post some interesting stories and pictures from there. The once in 12 year event will continue till April 28, 2010.

The following is a travel advisory and list if important dates I received from a diplomatic mission in New Delhi. Appending the same should this interest you.

The entire Kumbh Mela region – Haridwar, Rishikesh, parts of Dehradun has been marked as a separate district for the period. Approximately 40-50 million people may travel to Haridwar during that period. Following are the important days on which most of the gathering is expected.

Important Dates

14 January 2010 (Thursday) – Makar Sankranti Snan (dip)
15 January 2010 (Friday) – Mauni Amavasya and Surya Grahan  Snan (Solar Eclipse)
20 January 2010 (Wed) – Basant Panchmi Snan
30 January 2010 (Saturday) – Magh Purnima Snan
*12 February 2010 (Friday) – Maha Shivratri – Pratham Shahi Snan *
*15 March 2010 (Monday) – Somvati Amavasya – Dvitya Shahi Snan *
16 March 2010 (Tuesday) – Nav Sanvstar Snan
24 March 2010 (Wednesday) – Ram Navmi Snan
30 March 2010 (Tuesday) – Chaitra Purnima Snan
*14 April 2010 (Wednesday) – Baisakhi – Tritya Shahi Snan*
28 April 2010 (Wednesday) – Shakh Purnima Snan

(Days marked with a * are considered most auspicious and therefore will have the maximum number of people taking a dip in the Holy Gangas)

Expected Problems:
1.    Entire criminal intimidation can be expected because of huge crowd.
2.    Spread of swine flu, gastroenteritis etc outbreaks, other respiratory infections etc.
3.    Massive Traffic Jams.
4.    Stampedes.

Arrangements made by the Government

1.    Deployment of 100 companies of forces including police, paramilitary force etc.
2.    Vehicle routes have been diverted to avoid traffic jams.
3.    Help line has been set up for any kind of emergency -. dial 100
4.    Several health camps has been arranged to provide medical facility.
5.    Help line for medical emergency has been set up- dial 108.
6.    Central control room has been set up.

Advisory:

Following the consultation with the Police authorities External missions to Haridwar and Rishikesh should be suspended for the aforesaid period.
•    Travel to Haridwar is not recommended especially on the aforesaid days.
•    Travel to Dehradun should preferably by Train/ Air.
•    In case of road travel from Delhi route suggested is via Sarahnpur ( Delhi – Roorkee – Saharanpur Rd – Dehradun)

The New Year 2010 will ring in a with a blue moon. Have you planned something special?

And what is a blue moon? A rare occurrence when you have two full moons in a calendar month. There was a full moon on December 2, 2009 and will come again on December 31. How’s that for a special New Year’s eve? Hope this marks a new year and a new decade full of travels for you.

Of course, there is nothing blue about the moon. It is just a name given. A full moon occurs every 29.5 days, and most years have 12. On average, an extra full moon in a month — a blue moon — occurs every 2.5 years. The last time there was a lunar double take was in May 2007. New Year’s Eve blue moons are rarer, occurring every 19 years. The last time was in 1990; the next one won’t come again until 2028. So go party under the blue moon. And Kunzum wishes you a 2010 full of travels.

Corbett Expedition, January 23-25, 2010

Nature Wanderers in association with Kunzum are pleased to invite you for its first photography workshop in Corbett National Park. Nestling in the foothills of the Himalayas, home to over 160 Royal Bengal Tigers and over 600 species of birds and a multitude of other life forms, Corbett National Park is a dream photography destination for nature photographers. Come and be a part of the magical experience in Corbett – the land of the roar, the trumpet and the song!

The workshop is a unique opportunity for budding, amateur and want-to-be nature photographers and naturalists to explore the unique wilderness of India’s supreme natural wonders. In addition to photography tips, the workshop is an excellent knowledge building platform as you get to interact with ace naturalists, seasoned locals as they unfold the mysteries of Corbett National Park.

Dates: January 23-25, 2010
Venue: Camp Wild Adventure, Corbett Tiger Reserve

Tour Itinerary
January 23, 2010

* Reporting at Camp Wild Adventure (4 kms from Bijrani gate of Corbett National Park)
* Introduction to Corbett, the ecosystem and photography in Corbett on the banks of the scenic Kosi River that flows through Corbett Tiger Reserve

January 24, 2010
* Nature trek in Sitabani forest (Corbett Tiger Reserve):
The only part of Corbett that can be accessed on foot, Sitabani zone is one of the best places for bird watching. During the 2 hour long trek, the team would be crossing streams and would be on the lookout for some rare species of birds and mammals like the Great Indian Hornbill and the swift yellow throated marten. Who knows you can have a face to face encounter with the king of the jungle!
* An enthralling session by Abdul Ghaffar Ansari , Ace Naturalist, Corbett National Park
* Film Show: Wild Saga of Corbett – the only travel film on Corbett National Park by Kahini Ghosh Mehta & Shivang Mehta
* Photography review session by Shivang Mehta

January 25, 2010
* Morning gypsy safari in Bijrani Zone of Corbett National Park

The Bijrani zone of Corbett National Park has the reputation of some of the best tiger sightings because of its vegetation and high concentration of the wild cats. With an all time high frequency of tiger sightings, the Bijrani zone is currently being flocked by wildlife lovers from across the globe. Enjoy the gruelling 4 hour game of hide & seek and give yourself the chance to shoot some variety of wetland birds and raptors.
* Check out post breakfast

Package cost

INR 3500/- per person inclusive of:
- Boarding & Lodging
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and evening tea
- Safari cost, guide fees, vehicle and safari permits

# Cost does not include:
- Beverages
- Transit to and from Ramnagar

Contact Kahini Ghosh Mehta at Nature Wanderers at +91 9871367945 / kahinighosh@rediffmail.com
Online Partners : Kunzum – India’s Leading Travel Blog

There is an exciting road expedition of 20 cars going to Bhutan. Flag-off is in Delhi on December 12. There are still some slots available – would you like to be a part of this adventure? Its for anyone, not just 4-wheel off-roaders. You cannot ask for anything better this holiday season? Interested? Read the following message from the organizers:

Message from the organizers
We are organizing a Road Expedition to Bhutan in December 2009. The Road Expedition will connect New Delhi to Thimphu. The tentative start day for the event is December 12, 2009 from New Delhi and arriving in Thimphu on December 16, 2009. The following link will give more details about the expedition  https://www.box.net/shared/cc8208xj0v.

After flag-off in Delhi , the expedition will follow the following route covering almost 2000 Kms:

Day 1 – Delhi to Agra (200 Kms), Day 2 – Agra to Varanasi (650 Kms), Day 3 – Varanasi to Bodh Gaya (250 kms), Day 4 – Bodh Gaya to Siliguri (665 Kms), Day 5 – Siliguri to Thimpu (340 Kms), Day 6 – In Thimphu (participate in the National Day celebrations) and Day 7 – Punakha / Wangdue and to Paro (177 Kms). The expedition will end in Paro.

It is expected that about 20 cars including support vehicles and sponsor cars will travel as part of this expedition. The expedition is open only to Indian and Bhutanese nationals.

We are kick starting this initiative for the first time and will like this to be an annual event in the coming years.

The cost of the expedition is being borne by the participants and sponsorships. And needless to say we are looking for sponsors to fund the event. The objective of the road trip is to:

• Promote regional cooperation
• Showcase the unique bilateral cooperation that exists between India and Bhutan
• Bring to focus the tranquility and peaceful existence of Bhutan to larger Indian populace
• Promote potential opportunities for business, tourism and investment
• Take people to people contact – already established – to newer levels
• Promote motorsport and related activities in both countries

The event is supported by the Northern Motorsport (www.motorsport.in), which is one of the leading professional organizations in India involved with motorsport activities and is supported by UVA sports which is a young motorsport organization which very recently organized the Women’s car rally from Delhi to Agra. The event and logistic support is provided by Orchid Inc (www.orchidinc.co.in) which is a leading event organizing company.

Our media partners for this event is IBN7 which is a leading Hindi News Channel which also runs a very popular motor show called Top Drive on their channel. The crew of IBN7 will travel as part of this expedition and will broadcast daily updates from each of the night halts (pit stops). In addition they will do an exclusive 30 minute coverage post event on their Top Drive program. Talks are on to do similar coverage on IBN7’s partner channel CNN IBN and CNBC Awaaz. In addition to this we intend to hold press coverage at each pit stop to ensure maximum visibility for the event.

If you are interested in participating then call Ashit Ranjan at +91 987 355 1888 or email us at triptobhutan2009@gmail.com.

Let’s meet and share travel stories and experiences

Would you like to meet other travel enthusiasts? Relive adventures? Share stories and photos? Get recommendations for new destinations and experiences? Pick up travel tips? Have fun and share a few laughs? And even find new travel buddies?

Join us for an informal meet where everyone is encouraged to share their stories and experiences, and listen to others. WE WILL COVER ONLY INDIAN DESTINATIONS.

When: Saturday, 24 October 2009, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
Where: Kunzum Gallery, T-49, Ground Floor, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi 110 016

And let’s have a POT LUCK: Carry any refreshments and dry snacks for yourself – and for sharing. But only if you want to.

Open to all. No entry fee. RSVP at Facebook Events. Or just land up if you can’t for any reason. Call +91.9650 702 777 or +91.98110 08698 for directions on the day of the event.

Would you like to participate in any of the excellent heritage walks conducted by INTACH’s Delhi Chapter in October 2009? Here is a calendar for the month – if you really want to know the city, then we suggest you do sign up too.

Chandni Chowk
Day/Date: Saturday, 3rd October’09
Time: 8.00 am
Duration:  2 hrs. Approx
Charges: Rs. 50/- per person
The walk covers the Shri Digambara Jain Lal Mandir, Gauri Shankar temple, State Bank of India, Central Baptist Church, Sisganj Gurudwara, Sunheri Masjid, Paranthewali gali, Naughara, Dharampura, and Gali Guliyan. The walk ends at the gate of the Jama Masjid.

Nizamuddin
Day/ Date: Sunday, 11th October’09
Time: 8.00am
Duration: 2 hrs. Approx
Charges: Rs. 50/- per person
The focus of this area is the living shrine of the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Aulia.  Apart from the tomb of the saint, there is a thirteenth century mosque, several beautiful Mughal tombs and the tomb of Ghalib the great Urdu poet of the nineteenth century.

Mehrauli Archaeological Park
Day/ Date: Saturday, 24th October’09
Time: 8.00 am
Duration: 2 hrs approx.
Charges: Rs.50/- per person
The walk covers Balban’s tomb, Jamali Kamali’s mosque and tomb, Metcalfe’s bridge, Boathouse, Quli Khan’s tomb, Metcalfe’s Guest house, Rajon ki Baoli, Mosque and tomb, Serai , Maulana Majduddin’s tomb and Khan Shahid’s tomb.

Lodi Garden
Day/Date: Sunday, 25th October’09
Time: 8.00 am
Duration: 1 and half hour approx.
Charges: Rs. 50/- per person
A beautiful landscaped garden set in the midst of New Delhi, this park contains some exquisite examples of medieval architecture.  There are Syed and Lodi tombs and mosques, a Mughal garden and mosque, and other scattered structures.

Hauz Khas
Day/ Date: Sunday, 31st October’09
Time: 8.00 am
Duration: 2 hrs approx.
Charges: Rs. 50/- per person
The highlights of this area are the thirteenth century reservoir which has now been revived and teems with bird life; and the buildings of a renowned Madarsa beside which is also the tomb of its royal founder, Firoz Shah Tughlaq.  Several other pavilions, tombs and mosques are to be found in the surrounding park.

How to Register? You need to register separately for each walk.  Email INTACH at walks@intachdelhichapter.org If that is inconvenient then you may ring on the following numbers between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on working days: 011-24632267; 24632269; 24631818; extension- 105

Kunzum Gallery now has a bricks and mortar presence in Delhi’s fashion district of Hauz Khas Village.

The gallery is currently displaying a collection of Ajay Jain’s travel photographs from Ladakh, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Prices start from a modest Rs. 750 and go up to Rs. 25,000 for select limited edition prints. If you are planning any festive gifting, or want to add something to your home or office, check out the gallery for many attractive options. You can even preview the collection here.

Address: T-49, GF, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi 110 016, India
Timings: Monday – Saturday, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Call +91.99100 44476 / +91.9650 702 777 for further information, directions or to visit at hours other than mentioned above.