Adventure Travel

Tibet Cycling: The Complete Guide to Lhasa to Ganden Monastery Cycling Tour

Published

7 years ago

May 21, 2017

Tibet appeals to travellers in many ways. The first and most important thing is the beautiful natural scenery. However, Tibet is a bit different from the other scenic spots. There is a charm to this place, which is not found anywhere. Travellers have a mind which wanders and loves to explore new things. They can get this experience for their Tibet travel as the various associated activities can completely thrill them. From photography to trekking and cycling, the options never seem to end.

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Almost everyone is well acquainted with the various joys of cycling in Tibet, the atmosphere is absolutely perfect. Tourists can pass through several spots and they can enjoy every bit of this beautiful natural land. Cycling happens on various routes and these routes have to be understood thoroughly. In this article, we will discuss about the cycling tour to Ganden Monastery from Lhasa and provide you every detail that you need.

Why travel to Ganden Monastery?

Tibetan Buddhism has a unique appeal which calms the soul of all wanderers. They are struck by wanderlust and the monasteries in Tibet, offer them something to cherish about forever. For those who love religious places, Tibet has plenty of offerings. The monasteries, the temples and the rituals, Tibet’s heritage have always echoed through the ages. This brings us to Ganden Monastery, which is truly a magical place. It is an absolute wonder in front of the eyes and the viewers are left completely captivated. This was the very first monastery, which laid the foundation of Tibetan Buddhism. The vast expanse of land on Tibet’s western site is absolutely heavenly. Emperor Yongzheng who was from Qing Dynasty gave a very special name to this monastery and called it “Yong Tai”. Situated at a height of 3,800m from the sea’s level, the elevation is majestic. Lagyi Hall, Angyiukang, Yangbagyain Hall are the major construction in this monastery.

Located 47Km away from the capital city of Lhasa, this monastery witnesses a huge influx of people every year. This is an important structure as far as Tibet’s cultural heritage is conserved and it is preserved for this reason. The cultural and artistic significance is terrific and Ganden will always be the centre of Tibet’s attraction. It joins the famous Sera Monastery in a unique list, which also features Drepung Monastery. These three temples are considered “great” and the visitors value them greatly. Tibetan Buddhism features many activities and some of them are grand and marvellous. Once in a year, a giant picture of Buddha is unfolded and it easily attracts disciples from all parts of the country. Cycling to this monastery can provide a great experience, but you must follow the basic guidelines. Once these points are followed, your trip will not only be great, it will be perfect.

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Highlights of the amazing cycling tour from Lhasa to Ganden Monastery

Cyclists are of different types and they begin their journey, by having different trips in their minds. We have introduced trips of various lengths and they are tailor-made for each type of traveller. Some people can opt for the short and customized tour, while, others can choose the longer version. The distance from Tibet’s Lhasa to this amazing monastery can vary slightly, depending on the route taken. Cyclists have to travel 60Km to reach their destination and not much difficulty is faced in the process. Don’t forget to be in a relaxed mood, as you take this trip. Lhasa is a great spot to be in the right frame of mind and two days can be easily spent here. The famous trip begins from Lhasa River and cyclists go upstream. Picturesque villages and some amazing farmlands fall between that and they are just perfect. Reaching Ganden is easy and once you reach here, your soul will be touched by a positive vibe. The environment is filled with peacefulness and everything seems perfect here. One night can be spent here to soak in the feeling. The return journey can start next day and Chubuxi village falls in the route. Tibet is all about the unique lifestyle of the locals and this is something you can’t afford to miss. From Chubuxi, the trekking trip to Samye commences.

The most classic 6 days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Bike tour, you will enjoy the cycling joy and Tibet wonderful natural landscape and Tibetan monasteries architecture. Most tourists can complete this short ride after relaxing yourself in Lhasa for two days. The ride route begains upstream along the Lhasa River, and you will pass some farmlands and small villages. Then arrive in Gandan monastery, one of six Gelug sect monasteries, and worship this famous monastery. Then you are expected to spend a night at Gandan monastery to experience the peaceful environment. Next day, you will head back to Lhasa, and visit Chubuxi village at the foot of Gandan monastery. On the way you can experience the daily life of local people. Moreover, Chubuxi village is the starting point of Ganden to Samye trek. Finally we move back to Lhasa and the ride ends.

Tackling the changing altitude on the way to Ganden Monastery

The altitude in Lhasa is about 3600m, and that of Ganden Monastery is 3800m. There is no strict change of altitude, so it’s relatively easy for travellers who want to try short cycling in Tibet. Cycling is a strenuous activity and it can take a toll on your health. That being said, cycling in the rough terrains of Tibet is even more challenging. Ganden is situated high above the normal sea level and this steep rise can often weaken cyclists. The high altitude woes will continue, if proper precaution is not taken. Carrying additional oxygen cylinders is a must and this should be done in advance. The temperature changes greatly and travellers should also be aware of this. However, if you choose us for this trip, everything becomes easier. The freezing months can pose a far bigger threat and that should be avoided at all costs.

The perfect time to take Lhasa – Ganden Monastery cycle tour

Tibet embraces every season fabulously, though the conditions are not favourable every time. Travellers and especially cyclists must understand the timing absolutely well. If the activity is done in a pleasant month instead of the harsh winter, the fun can increase manifold. The best time for cycling is from May to October because good weather and temparature. The other months can be targeted as well, but the safety issues become important in the hilly roads.

Getting the Tibet Travel Permit – How can we help?

Exploring Tibet is a fun activity, but Tibet travel permits matter greatly. Foreign travellers must fulfil the necessary travel guidelines to get in this region and we can help you from all sides. We make the process easier, by getting you the right documents at the right time.

What to pack for this cycle tour? – Bicycle Rent and Other Tips

Taking the most essential things can do the job here. The all-important ID card and travel permit is absolutely essential and it gets the first priority. Take a medium-sized backpack to put in your things and pack it with the right kind of warm clothes. Waist packs also come in handy, as they store many important things. This is a place where you will see high elevation, so oxygen should be there in abundance. Avoid getting sunburn by taking a good sun-screen cream or lotion and lastly don’t miss out on the medicines. Helmets and other cycling wear can be taken, as it is very essential. The bicycle can be rented easily and it is supplied by the tour operator itself. An important trip in this aspect would be to prepare for the changing weather. It can stay sunny or it can rain, so plan accordingly.

The challenges in Tibet are quite tough, but it will gift you an experience, which you will not forget in a long time. Cycling here is precious and it is an important aspect that strengthens Tibet’s tourism.

Adventure Travel

Honest Review of New Jersey Island Beach State Park

Published

3 weeks ago

September 30, 2024

Warrren Hamels

New Jersey Island Beach State Park is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts along the Jersey Shore, known for its scenic beaches, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this barrier island offers something for everyone, from swimming and hiking to birdwatching and fishing. Before heading to this beautiful park, it’s essential to know the operating hours, costs, and other practical details to make the most of your visit. Here’s a full breakdown:

An Active Day at New Jersey Island Beach State Park with the Family

Our day at New Jersey Island Beach State Park was packed with adventure! My husband and I brought along our twin 11-year-old boys, and we made sure to hit all the exciting activities the park has to offer. We started the morning with a leisurely bike ride along the park’s trails. The boys loved pedaling through the scenic coastal dunes, and we all took in the fresh, crisp air of the ocean. It was a perfect way to kickstart our day while getting the boys’ energy flowing.

Next, we headed to the beach, where we all took turns trying our hand at surf fishing. My husband has always been an avid fisherman, so it was great to see the boys learn from him as they cast their lines into the surf. They were thrilled when they reeled in a small catch, and the excitement kept them motivated to try again!

For lunch, we settled in for a picnic near one of the park’s many shaded areas. Afterward, we decided to go for a hike along the scenic coastal trails. The boys were fascinated by the wildlife we spotted, including several shorebirds and even some turtles basking in the sun.

As the day cooled down, we rented kayaks for an afternoon paddle on the bay side. The serene waters were a welcome change of pace from the excitement of the earlier activities. The boys couldn’t get enough of it—paddling through the gentle waves while racing each other to the next marker.

We wrapped up our adventure by watching the sunset over the dunes, a perfect end to our active day. The combination of biking, hiking, fishing, and kayaking left us all feeling accomplished, yet grateful for the peaceful moments of the day.

Park Hours

The main gate of New Jersey Island Beach State Park opens at different times depending on the season:

Summer (Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend):
- Weekends and Holidays: 7 A.M. – 8 P.M.
- Weekdays (Mon-Fri): 8 A.M. – 8 P.M.
Off-Season (After Labor Day Weekend):
- Every day: 8 A.M. – Dusk

During the peak summer season, it’s important to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the park can reach capacity quickly. Once the parking lots are full, no more vehicles are allowed to enter. If you’re planning to visit during these busy times, aim for an early morning arrival to ensure you get a spot.

Entry Fees and Costs

Island Beach State Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle, with different rates for New Jersey residents and non-residents. Here’s the breakdown:

Time of Year	NJ Resident	Non-Resident
Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend (Summer)
Sat, Sun, Holidays (7 A.M. – 8 P.M.)	$10.00	$20.00
Mon-Fri (8 A.M. – 8 P.M.)	$6.00	$12.00
Off-Season (Every Day, 8 A.M. – Dusk)	$5.00	$10.00

Motorcyclists: $5.00 for NJ residents and $7.00 for non-residents every day of the year.
Walk-ins or Cyclists: There is no fee for those walking or biking into the park.
Buses: Buses are allowed, except for weekends and holidays, but advanced arrangements with park management are required.

The entry fees are reasonable, especially when you consider the park’s stunning beaches, clean facilities, and well-maintained natural areas. However, keep in mind that extra costs may arise if you plan to rent equipment or participate in certain activities such as surfing or fishing.

Popular Activities at Island Beach State Park

The park offers a wide range of activities to suit all interests, from adventure seekers to those looking for a relaxing day by the ocean.

Swimming and Surfing: New Jersey Island Beach State Park is renowned for its beautiful, clean beaches, which offer excellent swimming opportunities during the warmer months. Lifeguards are on duty in designated swimming areas, ensuring a safe environment for all visitors. Surfing is also popular here, with several spots that cater to different skill levels.
Surf Fishing: Fishing is another key draw for visitors. The park offers some of the best surf fishing on the East Coast, with the chance to catch species like striped bass, bluefish, and flounder. Fishing permits are required for vehicles driving onto the beach, and these can be obtained at the park office.
Hiking and Biking: If you’re not in the mood for a beach day, the park has miles of hiking and biking trails. These trails wind through dunes, maritime forests, and marshes, giving visitors a chance to experience the island’s diverse ecosystem. The Barrier Island Interpretive Center offers insights into the local flora and fauna.
Kayaking and Canoeing: For a peaceful adventure, explore the bay side of the island by kayak or canoe. Rentals are available nearby, and the calm bay waters provide a tranquil setting for paddling.
Wildlife Viewing: Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts will love the park’s diverse ecosystems. The park is home to ospreys, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle. The coastal marshes are also teeming with other wildlife, including terrapins and various species of fish.
Picnicking and Barbecues: The park features several picnic areas, complete with tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal with a view. These areas are popular with families and groups, offering a more relaxed way to spend the day.
Winter Activities: The park remains open during the winter months, providing a quieter and more serene experience. Winter swimming at the famous Bondi Icebergs Club is a popular activity for the bravest visitors.

Additional Information and Considerations

Beach Driving: One of the unique features of Island Beach State Park is that, with the proper permits, you can drive your vehicle directly onto the beach to access prime fishing spots. This option is particularly attractive to surf fishermen who want to avoid carrying heavy gear across the sand.
Facilities: The park offers clean restrooms, changing rooms, and outdoor showers, making it convenient for families and groups.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit New Jersey Destination

New Jersey Island Beach State Park offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and a serene atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere along the Jersey Shore. Whether you’re a nature lover, an avid angler, or simply looking for a quiet beach getaway, the park has something to offer everyone. With reasonable fees and plenty of parking (if you arrive early), Island Beach State Park is a true gem for anyone looking to experience the best of New Jersey’s coastline.

Adventure Travel

A Beginner’s Guide to Yacht Charters: How to Choose the Right Yacht and Plan the Perfect Trip

Published

10 months ago

December 13, 2023

Warrren Hamels

handsome young man enjoying time boat scaled

Yacht charters offer a unique and luxurious way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations. Whether you’re looking to spend a week exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, or you want to take a romantic trip to the Mediterranean, a yacht charter is an excellent option. Phuket is an excellent location to charter a yacht and is one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the world.

However, choosing the right yacht and planning the perfect trip can be a daunting task for those who are new to yacht charters. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your yacht charter experience a success.

Consider the Size of the Yacht Needed

Yachts come in a variety of sizes, from small sailing boats to large motor yachts. Consider how many people will be traveling with you, and how much space you’ll need for your trip. You’ll also want to think about the type of activities you want to do on your trip. If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, a smaller sailing yacht may be the way to go. But if you’re looking for a more luxurious and spacious experience, a larger motor yacht may be a better choice.

Small Sailing Yachts: These are typically 30-50 feet in length and are ideal for more intimate and adventurous trips.
Mid-Size Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 50-80 feet in length and offer more space and amenities than small sailing yachts.
Large Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 80 feet or longer and offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort.
Superyachts: These are the largest yachts, typically over 100 feet in length, and are often custom built to the highest standards.

Consider a Place to Discover

Yacht charters are available all over the world, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, so choose a location that appeals to you and your travel companions. Research the destinations you’re interested in, and find out what the weather will be like during your trip. You’ll also want to consider the time of year that you’re traveling, as some destinations may be more expensive during peak season.

Here are some popular yacht destinations:

Mediterranean: The Mediterranean region is a top destination for yacht charters, with its turquoise waters, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Some popular destinations include the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and the Greek islands.

Caribbean: The Caribbean is a popular yacht charter destination for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. Some popular islands include the British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, and Antigua.

Bahamas: The Bahamas are another popular yacht charter destination, known for its stunning crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and tropical landscapes.

Maldives: The Maldives is a group of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant sea life.

Thailand: Thailand is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, vibrant local culture, and rich history. Some popular destinations for yacht charters in Thailand include the Andaman Sea, Phuket, and Koh Samui

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beautiful beach view Koh Chang island and Tour boat for tourists seascape at Trad province Eastern of Thailand on blue sky background , Sea island of Thailand landscape

Plan Ahead

When it comes to planning the perfect trip, timing is everything. Booking your yacht charter early is key to ensuring that you get the yacht and destination that you want. Don’t wait until the last minute to book, as yachts can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s also a good idea to book well in advance if you’re traveling during the holidays, as yachts tend to be in high demand during these times.

Yacht Charter Cost

Another important factor to consider when planning your yacht charter is the cost. Yacht charters can be expensive, so you’ll want to budget for your trip carefully. Consider the cost of the yacht, fuel, food, and other expenses. Some yacht charters may include some or all of these expenses, so be sure to ask about what’s included when you’re booking. You may also want to look for yacht charter deals or discounts to help save money on your trip.

Think About the Crew

Finally, you’ll want to consider the crew. Yacht charters typically come with a crew that includes a captain, chef, and other members. Consider the size of the crew, and make sure that they have the experience and skills you need for your trip. You’ll also want to make sure that the crew is friendly and professional, and that they can accommodate any special requests or needs you may have.

Final Thoughts

A yacht charter is an excellent way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations in style and comfort. With a little bit of planning and research, you can choose the right yacht and plan the perfect trip for you and your travel companions. So start exploring your options today, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Adventure Travel

Medieval Towns with German Castles Near Munich & Frankfurt

Published

2 years ago

May 17, 2022

Rebecca Barlow

Our favorite castles in Germany near Frankfurt and Munich:

Neuschwanstein Castle is there somewhere amongst all the fog!

We were crazy enough to visit Neuschwanstein Castle on a public holiday. This meant that along with all the Asian tourists, there were an awful lot of Germans. Plus, even though we arrived by 11 am, the soonest tickets we could buy were for the German tour at 2.30 pm, as the terms in English were sold out until 4 pm. So, if you don’t have German friends at hand to translate the tour for you, we recommend booking in advance online. The castle was impressive, and the time was undoubtedly fascinating! Don’t worry, I won’t spill the beans, but the manmade Grotto room made my jaw drop!

Mespelbrunn Castle

Mespelbrunn Castle is located on a pond between Frankfurt and Wurzburg. Unfortunately, we arrived 30 minutes after its closing time of 5 pm, but it looked cool from behind the fence!

Lichtenstein Castle

Lichtenstein Castle is located on a clifftop near Stuttgart and costs 6 euros per person for a tour in German; however, they did give us a very informative written guide in English. This castle is small compared to Hohenzollern castle, but its story is fascinating. Tanks shelled it in World War II, and today you can still see the cracked mirror from where a small fragment of a tank grenade ricocheted!

Hohenzollern Castle

Hohenzollern Castle is not too far from Lichtenstein Castle. It is located on a hilltop near Hechingen, and we enjoyed the guided tour. Along with getting to wear GIANT slippers, make sure you explore the casemates and secret passages. One sign made me want to learn more. It read, “Exactly where these steps lead to is unknown. More casemates and secret passageways are likely waiting to be discovered in the heart of the mountain”!

Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle was a lot larger than we expected! Unfortunately, we had spent far too much time at the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim, so we did not have time to explore this castle. But if we get the chance, we will explore the town and its castle next time in Germany.

On our drive from Munich to Frankfurt, we also loved:

Andechs Monastery

The beer garden at Andechs Monastery was just like Oktoberfest but amongst trees and more family-friendly. The beer was cheaper, and the food was great, including the giant pork knuckle, which Moss could not finish. It was also fun walking up multiple flights of stairs to the tower’s very top.

River surfing in Munich

Rothenburg

Three hours in Rothenburg was not enough to explore this wonderful medieval town! We recommend getting your hands on a city map from the tourist information office. We enjoyed Roder Gate, walking along the wall and exploring the 17th-century spital bastion, plus Moss lost me in the Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop for over half an hour, and I didn’t even buy anything!

Bamberg was a neat town with old buildings in the center of the river and had a famous smoked beer which Moss just had to try!

I’m not the hugest car or plane fanatic, but even I enjoyed the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim. A highlight for me was sliding out of an airplane (from the museum’s roof)!

Don’t go out of your way to see it, but the world’s narrowest street in Reutlingen is worth a photo if you are passing through.

In Frankfurt, go to the old part of town for an apfelwein and see the Frau Rauscher statue – watch out, she spits about every 12 seconds!

The average person would Google Munich to Frankfurt and see that it only takes about 3 ½ hours depending on how fast you wish to drive on the autobahn! However, we are NOT typical. We took one look at train prices and decided that hiring a car wouldn’t cost too much more.

Suppose you’re interested in traveling to Germany for a damn good deal. In that case, plenty of tour companies have some pretty unique and affordable vacation packages to Berlin, Munich, and Bavaria.

It may be small but this building on Trappensee Lake is classed as a castle!

It may be small, but this building on Trappensee Lake is classed as a water castle!

We aren’t going to tell you our exact route. Still, after surviving Oktoberfest in Munich, we did a giant zigzag to see as many castles and medieval towns as possible. So to save you doing so much driving, we have picked our favorite cities and castles. First of all, ‘Ausfahrt’ is not a destination accessible from every off-ramp! It means ‘Exit’! Another word of wisdom to keep in mind is that the autobahns with speed limits do have speed cameras… and the flash is blinding!