www.lensmagik.com Open in urlscan Pro
119.18.54.85  Public Scan

URL: https://www.lensmagik.com/
Submission: On October 17 via api from CA — Scanned from CA

Form analysis 3 forms found in the DOM

POST https://www.lensmagik.com/send_email_for_subscriber/

<form method="post" action="https://www.lensmagik.com/send_email_for_subscriber/">
  <div class="input-group mb-3">
    <input type="email" class="form-control" placeholder="Subscribe with email..." name="email_subscribe" required="">
    <button class="btn btn-outline-default" type="submit">Subscribe</button>
  </div>
</form>

<form>
  <h5>Lensmagik.com</h5>
  <span></span>
</form>

<form>
  <h5>Contact Information</h5>
  <div>
    <i class="fas fa-envelope"></i>
    <span class="m-2">info@lensmagik.com</span>
  </div>
  <div>
    <i class="fas fa-phone-square-alt"></i>
    <span class="m-2">789456123</span>
  </div>
  <div>
    <i class="fas fa-map-marker-alt"></i>
    <span class="m-2">Gujarat, Bharat</span>
  </div>
</form>

Text Content

ADBLOCK DETECTED!

Our website needs to display ads to our users. Please, support us by disabling
adBlocker from your Browser

Okay, Reload page
 * Home
 * About Me
 * Privacy Policy


INSPIRE, EXPLORE, CREATE & SHOWCASE.

Imagine more



Oct 12, 2024 | Places To Visit In India Rann of Kutch: India's Surreal Salt
Desert

The White Desert of Kutch is also known as Great Rann of Kutch. It is a natural
wonder that transforms into vast expanse of glistening white during dry season
or winter season. Great Rann of Kutch is located in Gujarat  near Dhordo in
Kutch District. Kutch is the largest salt production area in India. Also a
largest evaporation rate per year in India. In Monsoon the Arabian Sea flood
rann with sea water. Area is full of water during monsoon season so you can only
visit during winter season from December to February. 



About White Desert Of Kutch :

Vibrant Life :  White desert of kutch becomes alive with diverse ecosystem,
migratory birds, flora and wild Ass. 

Infinite White landscape : The most amazing features is infinite expanse of pure
white salt. The layer of white salt create magnificent contrast against amazing
blue sky .



Cultural Richness :  At White Desert Of Kutch surrounded areas are rich cultural
heritage , with colorful tribes, crafts and cuisine. 



Things To Do at White Desert of Kutch :

You can get a Camel safari or jeep safari for exploring a white desert and enjoy
the beauty of it.Suggest you to see Sunrise or Sunset of Rann. At sunset or
sunrise time you can see magical glow over salt  flats. So sunrise and sunset
are stunning experience at Rann of Kutch.Immerse yourself in the culture of
Kutch. You can visit local villages, attending traditional dance  and also you
can enjoy local food.You can also see wildlife in Rann of Kutch.  You can see
Indian Wildass or Onager which is found only in Kutch in India. Also a migratory
birds like Greater Flamingo, Pelican and many more raptors found here. The
endangered spices like Great Indian Bustard also found here. 



Best Time To Visit White Desert of Kutch :

The Best time for experience  white desert of kutch is November to February
during winter season. During winter salt march completely dry . Also during this
period Rann Utsav managed by Gujarat Tourism. In Rann Utsav you can see colorful
festival showcasing the region's culture and traditions.  Also i suggest to plan
in November or December because in February salt march are destroyed due to
public foot fall and also a dirty too. 



Some Tips while visit White Desert of Kutch :

You can choose luxury Tent of Rann Utsav or also some affordable tents available
near white desert.  Comfortable cloths and lose fit cloths are suitable for
desert.You can capture stunning landscape with vibrant colors during sunrise and
sunset with white desert salt marsh. So bring good quality camera to capture
stunning images of White Desert of Kutch.



Best Experience of White Desert : On Full moon day you can experience the best
of white desert of Kutch.

White Desert of kutch is truly unforgettable destination of Gujarat. It offers
unique blend of natural beauty , cultural richness and also adventure and
wildlife. So i must suggest whenever you plan to visit Gujarat you must visit
Rann of Kutch during  Rann Utsav in November to February. 



Nearest places to visit : Road To Heaven, Dholavira, Kadiya Dhro, Mandvi Beach,
Vijay Vilas Palace, Kalo Dungar, Bhuj city, Bujyo Dungar, Smritivan memorial.

Famous dishes of Kutch : Kutchi Dabeli is one of the most famous fast food of
Kutch. Also Khichadi - Kadhi,  Kachhi Thali , Odho, Mesukh and Pakwan are famous
and must try it.

Famous Cloths of Kutch : Bandhani ( used in sari ,dress material and dupatta),
Ajrak ( used in cloths, home decor and accessories)  , Rogan Art ( Used in saree
and dress materials), Kutch Embroidery, Kala cotton ( used in home decor and
clothing )

Photos Taken from : Samsung S22 mobile, Canon 6D, Canon 80D



Read more
Oct 02, 2024 | Mammals Kings of the Savannah : The Mighty African Lion African
Lions are keystone spices in African Savanna and also playing a vital role for
eco-system. Africa is a dream of every wildlife Photographer to visit. In Africa
you can find mammals, serpents, birds, miniatures, macros, water animals and
many more. In Africa most people in the world visit Masai Mara National Park.
Masai mara is the biggest wildlife National park in Kenya to visit. During June
to August month the National park is full of tourist to see the migration of
wild beasts. Also you heard about Big Five Africa that includes the major 5
animals of Africa. In Big 5 African Animal includes Lion, Leopard, Buffalo,
Rhino and Elephant. Africa is very famous for Lions and Elephants too. In Masai
Mara Safari timing is early morning and evening can do also you can go for full
day safari about 6 hours with packed lunch. I found lions and also pride of
lions in early morning safari. 





Facts About African Lions :

African lion is a spices of Pantherian Cat.It has deep chested body and round
head and ears.African  Lion total length is about 208 cm from head to tail.Group
of femali Lions hunts together.Adult male Lion have prominent mane.Lions found
in grassland and savannas.Population of Lions in African countries decline about
43% since 1996 so they put Vulnerable on IUCN red list.In zoos lions breed with
tigers for hybrid spices. Hybrid spices called Liger. It is bigger than Lion and
Tiger. Lions are only cats that lives in Group.A lion's roar may heard around 8
km away.Lions mark their territory with their wee  and create a border.African
lions bite force is around 600-1000 PSI.Lions are most intelligent cats.Lions
gestation period around 3-4 months. They deliver 2-6 cubs generally. Cubs stay
with mother around 18 months.African lions lifespan is around 15-18 years.As per
African wildlife report lions can sleep 20 hours in a day.





In Kenya there are lots of wildlife Sanctuaries to visit like Masai Mara
National park, Amboseli National Park,  Tsavo National park, Lake Nakuru, Lake
Naivasa etc. Among them Masai Mara National Park and Amboseli National Park are
most favorite for Lions and Elephants. In Masai mara national park you can see
all major animals at one place so it is most favorite place for wildlife
photographer. During migration time the Masai Mara National Park is full of
tourist. There are many resorts inside of Masai Mara National Park so it is
better to do best experience in the wild. During migration time resorts and
hotel prices are too high. 



Park fees For Masai Mara National Park :

From 1st Jan 2024 park fees for Masai mara national park is revised and
increased too.

For Non resident adult fees is 100 $ per person per day. Child from 9-17 years
fees 50$ per person per day.  These fees are applicable from 1st January to 30
th June.

From 1 st July onwards fees for Masai Mara National Park is 200 $ for non
resident adult per person per day. For child fees remains same.



Lions are most social big cats. They living in pride which include females, cubs
and one or two males. Lions are predators and they hunt together with teamwork
to take down prey. Population of African Lions are significantly decline due to
habitat loss, poaching , conflict with humans etc. 



African Lions Vs Asiatic Lions :

African lions are bigger than Asiatic Lions. African Lion weight around 500
pounds of male and 350 pounds of female. Asiatic Lion weight 450 pound of male
and 350 pound of female. Male African lion have thick and full mane while
Asiatic lions have shorter and sparser mane. Both lions live in pride but
African Lion pride have one or two males while Asiatic lions have only one male.
African lions live in various savannas and grasslands in Africa while Asiatic
lions have only one forest Gir National Park.African Lions hunts large prey like
wildebeest, zebra etc while Asiatic lions hunts small prey like Antelope and
deer. Both Lions spices are Endangered. African Lions face habitat loss and
conflict with humans while Asiatic lions face restricted habitat in Gir National
Park. 

 



Lions are big mammals and while in safari if you see them you definitely scared.
It is really a great experience to see African Lion too close and contact eye to
eye. My hands are shacked while clicking photos because if Lion jump on my van
then i would be his breakfast definitely. Overall great experience in Masai Mara
and also at Amboseli National park in Kenya to watch lions with their cubs and
family. 

Photos Taken at Masai mara National Park and Amboseli National Park in Kenya

Gear Used : Canon 6 D with Canon 100-400 mm lens. 

Read more
Sep 07, 2024 | Reptiles Of India The Marvelous Multi-Moniker: A Look at the
Indian Garden Lizard The Oriental Garden lizard is also known as common garden
lizard, Indian Garden Lizard, Eastern garden lizard, changeable or blockbuster
lizard. It is widely distributed in Indo -Malaya. It is also found in many other
part of the world and also in USA. Oriental Garden Lizard is a resident in
gardens. It helps in control  insect populations. They are insectivorous and
their main diet is insects. Binominal name of Oriental Garden lizard is Calotes
versicolor. They also change their body color according to weather. 





Description and facts about Oriental Garden Lizard :Male oriental garden lizard
has bright red throat in breeding season .Length of Oriental garden lizard is
around 10 cm. Total length with tail is around 37 cm.Dorsal crest elevated on
neck and anterior part of trunk.Ground color is light brownish. It can be change
into red, black or mixture of both.During breeding season male change its color
to orange in head and shoulders. Male change head color to red after successful
battle with rival.Lizards don't drop their tail and also tail is very long,
pointy and stiff.They eat mainly insects like grasshopper, crickets , ants and
rodents like  geckos .Female lay 10-20 eggs which are long spindle shape and
covered with leathery skin. They hatch in 6-7 weeks and they also able to breed
in 1 year.They are diurnal means they are active during a day.They are excellent
climber, thanks to their sharp claws and moving eyes.Some spices of lizard will
go their entire life without drinking waterAverage lifespan of lizard is around
3-5 years.



Oriental Garden Lizard can move each of  their eyes in different  direction.
Oriental garden lizard do not attack on humans and don't suck blood. Lizards are
live everywhere even in the houses also. In India housewives are scared of
lizards. There are various spices of lizards found in home and garden also.
Lizards are in Reptilia class  and they are in least concern in IUCN list. I
found many lizards in farm areas and agriculture areas near to my home.

Gear Used : Canon 6D, Canon 80D, Canon 100 mm macro lens

Exif Data : F-stop = f/5 , Exposure : 1/100 sec,  ISO : 640, Focal length  : 100
mm , No flash 

 



Read more
Aug 23, 2024 | Places To Visit In India Kadiya Dhro: India's Secret Grand Canyon
Revealed

Kadiya Dhro is a fascinating natural wonder located in the Kutch district of
Gujarat, India. It is looks like a grand canyon site and similar to it. Site is
not much big but it is far from main road of Ulat in Kutch. You have to drive
around 5 km from main road. There is a local transport of Jeep get to the Kadiya
Dhro site and come back in 1 hour . They charge 100-200 INR per person or hire a
jeep around 1000-2000 INR depend on season. Most people not visited Kadiya Dhro
site because it is not in the main route of Kutch , Bhuj and Rann of Kutch. But
i think it worth to visit it.  Kadiya Dhro site was discovered by traveller
Varun Suchday in 2020. Kadiya Dhro is located in between White Desert of Kutch (
Rann of Kutch )  and Bhuj City. 



Grand Canyon of India: Kadiya Dhro is nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of India" due
to its resemblance to the famous landmark in the United States. Layers of
colorful sandstone have been carved by the wind and river over thousands of
years, creating a visually striking landscape.










Location: It's situated about 32 kilometers from Bhuj, near a small village in
the Kutch district.

Getting There: Reaching Kadiya Dhro requires an off-road drive of around 4-5
kilometers, so a jeep with good ground clearance is recommended. You can find
jeeps available for hire locally 

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is between November and February,
when the weather is pleasant and sunny 

Things to Do: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the rock formations, explore the
surrounding area, and be on the lookout for the diverse birdlife. Keep in mind
that crocodiles have been spotted here, so avoid swimming in the water .

Hidden Gem: Kadiya Dhro was recently included in The New York Times' list of "52
Places to Visit in the World" in 2021, bringing it more recognition .











If you're looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination in Gujarat,
Kadiya Dhro is definitely worth considering. Also Kadiya Dhro is less crowded
site so you can enjoy a lot without any disturbance. The local jeep allow you
for 1 hour visit site but i suggest that reach early morning or late evening to
watch sunrise or sunset and hire jeep for atleast 2-3 hours for better visit
site. Also some places have good photographs to take with sunset and sunrise. We
had  a limited time for visit Kadiya Dhro so we reach in the afternoon in very
sunny but still is good site to capture in your camera.

Photos Taken with  : Canon 6D, Canon 80D, Samsund S22 mobile, DJI Mavic Air 2

Read more
Aug 11, 2024 | Places To Visit In India Driving to Divinity: Experiencing the
Road to Heaven in Kutch

Road To Heaven is named to the road from Khavda to Dholavira in Kutch Gujarat.
The road is so wonderful and scenery so it known  as Road to Heaven .  Khavda to
Dholavira distance is around  58km but from Khavda there is a single line narrow
road passes through small villages around 15-20 km approx. The main road starts
after it and it is around 30-35 km approx. strait to Dholavira. Road is under
constriction but almost 70-80% work done. The road heading to the city of
Harappan Civilization Dholavira which is one of the largest site of Harappan
Civilization and Indus valley Civilization.

 

Kutch is a largest district of Gujarat and also of India. Main City or
Headquarter of Kutch District is Bhuj. Kutch is famous for White Desert or White
Rann. In Every winter season from December to February celebrate “ Rann Utsav “
to attract foreigners and also locals. Tent City made in white desert to stay
and also cultural programs arranged in it. The main Rann Utsav held in Dhordo of
Kutch.

 

After visit White desert people also visit Dholavira which is nearest
destination from Dhordo and also Kalo Dungar in between. From Dhordo you will
have to go Khavda first and then from Khavda to Dholavira which is connected
through “ Road To Heaven “. Dholavira is located at Khadir Bet. Khadir bet is
separated because after monsoon the water filled outer side of bet. So the Road
To Heaven is the way to connect Khadir bet to main city Bhuj.

About Road To Heaven Dholavira / Road to Heaven in Kutch :

·         It connected from Khavda to Dholavira.·         Road to heaven
distance around 30-35 km.·         After monsoon the rain water on the both side
of the road. You can see beautiful Greater Flamingo birds in between. Water
level is low but muddy.·         After winter in January –February the water on
both side of the road is evaporated and turn into salt. Not all water but some
areas during the road.·         Water on the both side of the road or Salt/
white layer on both side of the road make the beauty of the road and that’s why
it name as “ Road To Heaven “·         When you are on the road there is hardly
some traffic you face the open road with both side water or salt at morning or
evening make the scenery like a Heaven.

 





I must suggest to visit Road To Heaven in Kutch while you visit Kutch. Also
Visit Dholavira which is one of the largest Harappan Civilization site.

Places to visit near Road To Heaven :

Dholavira, Kalo Dungar, Dhordo, White Desert

Places to Visit near Bhuj : Kadiya dhro, Chhatardi, Mandvi beach, Vijay vilas
palace, Bhujyo Dungar, Smriti Van, Vande matram memorial

Camera Used : Canon 80D, Canon 6D, DJI Mavic Air2



 

Read more

Aug 01, 2024 | Birds of India The Indian Pond Heron: A Common Bird with Uncommon
Skills The Indian pond heron is also known as the paddybird. It is a small
heron bird which  found in southern Iran and east to the Indian subcontinent,
Burma, and Sri Lanka. It's a widespread and common bird, but you might easily
miss it while it's stalking prey at the edge of small bodies of water. I found
it at Thol Bird Sanctuary in Gujarat. Also found in agriculture areas, canals,
farms and many more sanctuary like Nal Sarovar, Velavadar sanctuary, Pariej
Wetland etc.



Some interesting facts about the Indian pond heron:

They are stocky birds with short necks, short thick bills, and buff-brown backs.
In summer, adults can grow long neck feathers. Their dull colors transform when
they take flight, and the white of their wings makes them very prominent. Indian
pond Heron are similar to the squacco herons, but back is darker. During the
breeding season, some individuals may have red legs. They are solitary foragers,
but a large number of them may feed together during dry seasons when small
wetlands have a high concentration of prey. Indian pond herons are semi-colonial
breeders. They nest in small colonies, often with other wading birds, usually on
platforms of sticks in trees or shrubs. Their diet mainly consists of insects,
fish, and amphibians.

During breeding season, the Indian pond heron sheds its drab disguise for a more
vibrant look. Males develop a reddish-brown back that pops against their
yellowish head, neck, and breast. This colorful plumage is a sure sign that the
heron is ready to find a mate and raise a family.

The Indian pond heron is a bird of freshwater wetlands. It is found at rice
paddies, marshes, ponds, and canals, patiently stalking its prey in shallow
water. Fish, frogs, insects, and even small reptiles are all on the menu for
this opportunistic eater. Indian pond herons can sometimes be seen feeding in
close proximity during dry seasons when prey concentrates in shrinking water
bodies.

While typically solitary feeders, Indian pond herons come together for breeding.
They form semi-colonial nesting sites, often in trees or shrubs near water.
These colonies can sometimes house other wading bird species, creating a
bustling neighborhood of feathered friends.





A Bird of Least Concern

Thankfully, the Indian pond heron is classified as a species of Least Concern by
the IUCN. Its widespread range contribute to its healthy population. However,
threats like habitat loss due to pollution and development remain a concern.

Have you ever spotted an Indian pond heron? These remarkable birds are a
testament to nature's wonders, showcasing both the art of camouflage and the
beauty of transformation. Keep your eyes peeled next time you visit a wetland –
you might just be lucky enough to witness this little wonder in action.



Location in Gujarat : It is widely spread bird in Gujarat also.Indian pond heron
found in many bird sanctuaries in Gujarat like Nal Sarovar Bird sanctuary, Thol
Bird sanctuary, Pariej Wetland, and many more wetlands, farms, agriculture areas
and canals too. 

Read more
Jul 09, 2024 | Heritage Places India Dholavira: The Lost City of the Indus
Valley Civilization

Dholavira is located in Bhachau taluka in Kutch District of Gujarat. Dholavira
is archeological site and it is one of the largest Harappan site among 5 sites.
You can go to Dholavira by passing Road to Heaven which is finest route both
side salt water. It is also a world heritagesite of UNESCO. Dholavira is located
on Tropic of Cancer. It is located on Khadir bet island in the Kutch Desert
wildlife Sanctuary. It is in the Greate Rann of Kutch belonging to Indus River.
The site was discovered by Shambhudan Gadhvi in 1960. After his effort site was
officially discovered in 1967-1968 by archeological survey of India. Total 8
Harappan site and Dholavira is one of the largest site among them. Other major
Harappan site discovered are Harappa, Ganeriwala, Mohenjo-Daro, Kalibangan,
Rupnagar, Rakhigarhi and Lothal. Dholavira was important center for trade
between central Asia, south Gujarat, Punjab and Sindh. The excavation was
started by ASI in 1989. There were 13 field excavation between 1990 to 2005.



City Plan of Dholavira :

Dholavira city is in rectangular shape. It spread over 54 acers and total area
measures length around 2530 ft and width around 2023.8 ft. City Dholavira is
divided in 3 parts as The Citadel, The Middle Town and The Lower Town. The
Castel is double in height and bailey area near the castle is where important
officials were lived. Middle town has own defense, gates, streets , well systems
and large open spaces. Lower town for lower workers which has no boundary walls.
In Dholavira there are 2 rivers flown one is Manhar in the south and Mansar in
the North side.





Water storage system/ Reservoirs :

Water harvesting and storage system of Dholavira says about advance hydraulic
engineering in third millennium BCE. The unique features of Dholavira is water
conservation system of reservoirs and channel systems which was never found
anywhere in the world before. They store rain water which diverted into
rivulets. The system for water harvesting is for long time preserve fresh water
in Kutch climate where sometimes rain may not fall for years. Reservoir are cut
through stone about 23 ft deep and 259 ft long. Total 16 or more reservoir
created of different size.

 



A huge sign board found around 9.8 ft long on which 10 letters of Indus script.
The costal route existed linking Lothal and Dholavira to Sutkagan Dor on the
Makran coast.



Language :

The Harappan spoke an unknown language. The Script which was found on large sign
board not yet deciphered.



Chronology of Dholavira :

Cultural Stages

Chronology

Cultural Affiliation

Culture

Period

Stage VII

c. 1500-1450 BCE

Post Harappan

Late Harappan

Period 5

Stage VI

c. 1950-1800 BCE

Late Harappan

Late Harappan

Period 4

Stage V

c. 2100-2000 BCE

Harappan

Harappan

Period 3

Stage IV

c. 2500-2100 BCE

Harappan

Harappan

Period 3

Stage III

c. 2800-2500 BCE

Dholavira Culture

Kot Dijian

Period 2

Stage II

c. 2900-2800 BCE

Dholavira Culture

Ravi/ Hakra

Period IA & 1B ( starting before 3700 BCE )

Stage I

c. 3000-2900 BCE

Dholavira Culture

Ravi/ Hakra

Period IA & 1B (starting before 3700 BCE )

 



While visit Kutch Dholavira is must visit site in your itinerary. You can visit
Dholavira with family to know about old architecture, business coastal area via
sea, living things and utensils and most important is water harvesting system.
While visit Dholavira must take a guide to know every structure in detail it
will cost around 500 INR per group but worth it.





How To reach Dholavira :

Dholavira is 130 km from Bhuj. Bhuj is main city in Kutch where you find airport
, railway stations and bus transports. From Bhuj Dholavira around 2 hr 40 min
distance. Road is very good just from Khavda road is single line and narrow for
half an hour. After it the Road To Heaven started around 30-40 km long and the
road is fantastic both side water after monsoon and after evaporate water you
can see salt a white desert both side of road.











 Near by places to visit : Road To Heaven, White Rann in Rann Utsav by Gujarat
Tourism, Kadiya Dhro, Bhuj City, Smriti Van, Bhujyo Dungar, Mandvi Beach, Vijay
Vilas Palace. 



 Camera Used : Canon 6D, Canon 80D, 14mm lens, Samsung S22 Mobile

Read more
Jun 26, 2024 | Birds of India Pink-Browed Rose Finch: A Stunning Songbird of
India









There are lots of spices of Finch bird. Pink browed rose finch family name
carpodacus rodochroa. Very small in size like a sparrow. The male is bright
raspberry pink color and female is brown with streaked Buffy underparts and
broad white eyebrows. This spices generally found in Himalayan range about
8000-12000 ft heights. I found both Male and female during my different trek.
The male i found on my Har Ki Dun trek, Chandrakhani Pass Trek in manali and
female i found at Singalila National Park. Images are taken at  with my canon 6D
and 100-400 mm lens.



Pink Browed Rose finch generally found in heights above 7000ft . During my trek
to Har Ki Dun and Manali (Chandrakhani pass ) i found Lost of birds among them
one is Rose finch. It  is really beautiful to see this bird . Its color is very
beautiful and looks like raspberry pink. It was difficult to shoot with distance
and got sharp image. Well i had a good camera and lens so that i capture this
sharp image.



Some facts about Pink Browed Rosefinch: 
It is resident bird of Himalayas.Pink Browed Rosefinch is small and compact
rosefinch.Male has pink supercilium rump and underparts.Maroon pink crown and
ear-coverts.Pinkish brown coloration to mantle.First year male and Female of 
Pink browed rosefinch have prominent buff supercilium contrasting with dark
ear-coverts, brownish buff coloration to mantle.It has tawny to rump and strong
tawny wash from breast to undertail-coverts.Pink browed rosefinch breeds high
altitude shrub in winters and in oak forest.Pink Browed Rosefinch bird call is
Loud  .....Per- Lee....















Pink Browed Rosefinch is generally found at Himalayas. I found it at Har Ki Dun
trek and also at Chandrakhani pass trek to Manali.  Bird is so beautiful in
color you can not resist to capture image of it. There are also different types
of finch bird available in manali and also at Uttarakhand. They generally found
in pair of male and female. 

Gear Used : Canon 6D, Canon 1000 D, Canon 100-400 mm lens, Canon 80 D

Read more
Jun 13, 2024 | Landscape Photography Unveiling Sikkim: A Land of Enchanting
Beauty

Sikkim is the state in northeastern side of India. In northeast side of Sikkim
is Tibet , east side is Bhutan, in the west is Nepal and in south its border
touches to West Bengal. Capital of Sikkim is Gangtok. Total area of Sikkim is
7096 sqkm. Highest elevation of Sikkim is Mt Kanchenjunga 8586 m.  Population of
Sikkim around 6 lakhs. Languages spoken here is Nepali, Sikkimese, Lepcha,
English.

Sikkim has four districts known as East Sikkim capital Gangtok , North Sikkim
capital Mangan, South Sikkim capital Namchi and west Sikkim capital Gyalshing .
Major city and biggest of state is Gangtok .



Flora And Fauna of Sikkim :

Sikkim is home of more than 5000 spices of flower plants. Among them 515 are
rare orchids,36 spices of rhododendron, 11 spices of Oak, 60 spices of Primula,
23 spices of Bamboo, 362 varieties of Ferns and over 900 medicinal plants.
Official flower of Sikkim is Noble Dendrobium. State tree of Sikkim is
Rhododendron. On other side of Sikkim fauna there is a lots of wildlife found
here. Major Attractions in wildlife in Sikkim is Red Panda, Snow leopard,
Himalayan Marmot, Himalayan Tahr, Asian Black Bear , Leopard Cat, Tibetan Wolf,
Comon Langur, Himalayan Jungle Cat, Dhole, Himalayan Serow, Himalayan Goral and
Yaks. Also Sikkim is heaven for Birds too like Crimson horned Pheasant , Impeyan
Pheasant, Tibetan Snowcock, Griffon Vulture, Golden Eagles, Quails, Plovers,
Pigeons, Flycatchers and many more. Total more than 550 spices of birds found
here. In Sikkim also butterflies found more than 1400 spices. Red Panda is the
State animal of Sikkim. Singalila National Park is most favorite place for
trekker and wildlife photographers.

The earliest inhabitants of Sikkim are Lepchas. Sikkim is almost in a hilly
area. State elevation from 280m to 8586m.  Lowest elevation at West side at west
Bengal border and highest is Mt. Kanchenjunga  summit. Kanchenjunga Mountain is
the 3rd highest mountain in the World. It is Situated on the border of Sikkim
and Nepal. Mt. Kanchenjunga can be seen from Darjeeling early in the morning
also if you want to see Kanchenjunga very closely then visit Sandakphu at
Singalila National park where you can see a clear Mount Kanchenjunga and also Mt
Everest if weather is clear.

In Sikkim Tour we planned for North Sikkim, East Sikkim and South Sikkim places.
Most tour visit Gangtok – Darjeeling – Pelling  or Gangtok – Lachen- Lachung –
Darjeeling- Namchi . If you want to go pelling then Lachen and Lachung you have
to skip or you have to add more 3-4 days in your tour to complete all of these.
We done in our tour Gangtok-Lachen-Lachung-Gangtok-Darjeeling . Our tour
Itinerary as below.



Best Time for Visit Sikkim :

The best season for traveling to North Sikkim is Mid February to Mid-June  &
Mid-September to Mid December. 

Sikkim Tour Itinerary :

For Sikkim you can go via flight to Bagdogra then from Bagdogra (IXB) to Gangtok
via road. Also a New Jalpaiguri Railway Station ( NJP ) overnight train from
Kolkata reach in the morning and then via road to Gangtok.

Day 1

IXB Airport / NJP Railway Station to Gangtok 125kms in 4hrs  and drive to
Gangtok (Capital of Sikkim). Gangtok is also a resting ground for people
traveling to North Sikkim. Check in at Hotel. Evening we go for Gangtok city
tour and shopping. We stay at Lemon Tree hotel Gangtok. A very nice property and
good Hospitality.

 

Day 2

Early Morning leave to  Tsongmo Lake (12,400 ft.) & Baba Harbhajan Singh
Memorial (13200 ft) 52 kms from Gangtok city. Tsongmo Lake freezes completely
during the winter and is much revered by the locals.

Optional tour to Nathula Pass (Alt 14000Ft / 4200M) on China Border can also be
arranged (Except Mon, Tue) for Indian Nationals on advance request at an
additional cost. I must say to visit Nathula Pass cost around 3000-4000 INR per
car. At Nthula pass you must go early in the morning otherwise traffic  jam on
afternoon. Also weather changes after 12 pm so reach early. At Nathula Pass if
you stuck in traffic and if heavy snow fall then you will stuck for overnight
and after BRO clear the roads you can not go back. So plan early morning if
possible and listen to your driver and follow their guidance.

 





Day 3

Gangtok to Lachen (125 Kms / 6 hrs) Morning drive to Lachen in North Sikkim
(8660 ft). In between  visit Singhik View point, Seven Sisters Water Fall, Naga
Water Falls, and Chungthang Confluence. Arrive at Lachen in the evening. We stay
at Khenkhim Hotel in Lachen.

 

Day 4

Lachen – Chopta Valley (13,200 ft.) – Gurudongmar Lake (17,100 ft.) – Lachung
Early Morning drive to Chopta Valley to get some breathtaking view of alpine
valley of frozen rives. Then procede further 30 Kms in 1.5 hrs to Gurudongmar
Lake. The Highest and the biggest fresh water lakes in Sikkim, and it is very
close to Tibet Border. After Lunch drive to Lachung.  We Stay at Etho Metho
hotel in Lachung. Also a good and finest property.

 

Day 5

Early Morning Leave to Yumthang (Valley of Flowers) at 1200ft. It is a summer
grazing ground of Yaks and winter playgrounds of Yetis. Back to Lachung. After
lunch drive back to Gangtok. Kala Patthar or Zero Point is optional for visit
around 3000-4000 per car. At Zero point or kala patthar you can see lots of snow
and beautiful snow mountain view of Himalayas. Also on the way to kala patthar
you can visit valley of flowers. In April to May month you can see
beautiful rhododendrons are in full bloom and the entire route that leads to
Zero Point looks almost like a painting. But when we were visit lots of snow
fall during those days so flowers was not so many on that day but its worth to
visit. You never disappoint with the entire route scenery. 

 

Day 6

Gangtok Half day sight-seeing- to Darjeeling (Alt 7100Ft/2100M), 95km in 3 hrs.
Breakfast at the hotel, check out & visit Bakthang Falls, Enchey Monastery,
Flower Show, Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology, Dodurl Chorten and
Handicraft Centre and drive to Darjeeling. We stay at Sterling Holiday Resort at
Darjeeling. Resort is very good.

 

Day 7

Darjeeling local sightseeing Visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja
Naidu Zoological Park (Thursday closed), Tenzing Rock, Ropeway, Tibetan Refugee
self-help Centre (Sunday closed), Tea Garden (outer view), Japanese Temple,
Ghoom Monastery, Batasia loop, Tiger hill (8,400 ft.). Evening free at leisure.
you can go for shopping at Darjeeling market .



Day 8

Darjeeling to IXB Airport / NJP Railway Station – 90kms in 3hrs. In morning
 drive to NJP/Bagdogra.

Casinos In Gangtok : 

There are many casinos in Gangtok if you are interested like Deltin Denzong,
Ramada Casino, Big Bull Casino etc. We went to Ramada casino and had a great
fun. Entry Ticket for Ramada Casino is 2000 per person ( rates may change )
which includes 2 drinks, 2 starters, buffet dinner and 1000 INR token chip. Also
they have more package for entry for unlimited drinks and food may be.

 

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW  ABOUT DARJEELING: 

Due to the recent changes in the Traffic Management System in Darjeeling there
would be a lot of restrictions for visiting the Sight Seeing Points mentioned in
the itinerary.  300 vehicles would be allowed to visit Tiger hill in a day with
Coupon, which would be issued the previous  day by the Authorities. 

Batasia Loop, which was a part of the early morning sightseeing, would now open
from 10 am instead of  06:00am. You will have to walk minimum 500 mtrs from the
gate (Depending upon the rush)and the place where the car is parked.  No car
would be allowed to pick-up or drop passengers in from of HMI ZOO and the same
can only be done  at a designated area 100 mtrs away from the gate.  The cars
would be allowed to pick-up or drop passengers only from the designated areas
and not as per the convenience or wish of the guests

 

North Sikkim travel Guide (Lachung - Lachen):  Must Know Things while visit
North Sikkim

Guest Traveling to North Sikkim (Lachung / Lachen) requires 02-04 copies of
passport size photograph, original photo ID proof with photo copy (identity card
– Voter ID card / Pass-port / Driving License) for processing the permit. Aadhar
Card / PAN Card - not acceptable for issuance of the Permit  In Lachen and
Lachung . But when we go some places may accept Adhar Card too. Most of the
hotels are offering Vegetarian food . Food quality is very good.  All guests are
requested to carry minimum luggage when travelling to North Sikkim and keep the
extra  luggage at the hotel in Gangtok because of bad road conditions of North
Sikkim especially during transshipment due to landslides and road blockages. We
carry only 1 bag for 1 family. Child below 10 yrs. and Senior Citizen is not
suggestible to visit Gurudongmar Lake (17,100 Ft.) in Lachen  due to high
Altitude and low Oxygen Level  Hotels of Lachen and Lachung have only with basic
amenities  & simple food cooked by the locals and not by hotel Chef.  In maximum
hotels there is no geyser in the bathroom – hot water is supplied by buckets by
the hotelier. Also during Gangtok to Lachung there is a very few vegetarian food
restaurant and you must take a lunch at their. Other wise there is no restaurant
after that. Same at return to Gangtok. So plan some snakes and packed food from
Gangtok. Lachen and Lachung hotels rooms are also small so you must adjust in
it. No room heating systems are provided in the room in maximum hotels due to
shortage of power, instead the hotelier provides hot water bags. At some hotels
they provide heaters too depend on your hotel. Airtel, Vodafone  & BSNL operates
better in Lachen and Lachung. After leaving hotels and city you can not get
signal during sight scenes. So if you are travelling in group with 2-3 cars then
plan close all cars or make a point where you can all meet if someone left
alone.  Best way to keep walkie talkie for minimum 2-5 km range to contact each
other.    Due to shortage of power the guest sometimes may have to bear with
candle light.  Due to winter season (heavy snow) vehicle will be able to drive
till Snow point on the way to Yumthang Valley.  Zero point(must visit place ) 
(Yumesamdong) is kept optional which the guest can avail with an extra cost.
Approx. cost is Rs. 3500 per vehicle.  Mineral Water bottles are not available
in North Sikkim. You need  to carry a bottle at all times. They can be refilled
at hotels. Littering will attract fine. Cigarette smoking or tobacco / tobacco
product consumption is banned in public places.

After all sikkim is must visit place where you can find a high himalayan range
mountains with greenery. Here you can find greenery , snow, high altitude lakes
and enjoy beautiful weather with nature. Also in Darjeeling zoo we can see
rarest and endangered Red Panda and many more birds and animals.

Read more
Jun 01, 2024 | Birds of India Unveiling the Asian Openbill Stork: A Bird with a
Unique Beak

Asian openbill is also known as Asian openbill stork. It is a large wader bird
in stork family. Binominal name of it is Anastomus Oscitans and its family is
Ciconiidae. It is generally found in South-east Asia region. Like other stork it
size mostly similar to them. Only difference in color as openbill stork is
greyish or white in color and glossy black wings. In Gujarat it is found in Thol
bird Sanctuary , Nalsarovar Bird sanctuary, Pariej Wetland and agriculture areas
at many places. It found in low level wetlands where it can find food easily. In
Gujarat like Asian openbill stork other stork bird found like Painted Stork,
Wooley Necked Stork etc.



Description and Facts about Asian openbill stork :

Asian openbill stork is greyish or white in color. Its wings and tail are glossy
black in color.As it name openbill the gap between lower and upper mandible of
the beak. The gap between beak is not seen in young bird. The gap is very useful
for gripping snails and shells .They are generally found in flocks. Asian
openbill generally found near river bank, wetlands, Irrigation canal and
agriculture areas.It is very rare spices in Panjab and Sind region of Pakistan
But it common in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand and Cambodia.They are mostly
seen in Winter from September to February.Asian openbill feed snails and they
separate shell with its beak. They also feed frogs, water snakes and large
insects.Asian openbill breeding season is after monsoon in November to March in
Southern India and Shri Lanka and in Northern India and Nepal starts from July
to September .  In colonial India a sportsman shot Asian openbill for meat 
calling  it the  " beef-steak-bird".



In Gujarat there are lots of bird sanctuary where migratory birds and also
resident birds visit through all seasons. Thol Bird sanctuary, Nal sarovar ,
Little Rann of Kutch, Pariej Wetland, Velavadar National Park, Khijadiya
sanctuary etc are famous sanctuaries for bird watching. Thol Sanctuary is famous
for Flamingo bird, Pelican, Bar headed Goose and many migratory birds. I found 3
spices of stork bird name Painted Stork, Asian openbill stork and Woolly necked
stork in thol bird sanctuary. Thol sanctuary, nalsarovar , Little rann of kutch
are very near to my home so i visit all sanctuary often.

Gear Used : Canon 6 D, Canon 1000 D , Canon 100-400 mm lens



Location : Thol bird sanctuary, Sanand, Kadi , Gujarat

Read more
 * 1
 * 2
 * 3
 * »

Search
Subscribe


All categories
Astro Photography (4) Abstract Photography (4) Landscape Photography (5)
Overseas Holidays (3) Trekking India (2) Best Hill Station In India (4) Birds of
India (47) Mammals (7) Big Cats (2) Reptiles Of India (3) Festival Of India (3)
Himalayan Mountains (4) Heritage Places India (6) Macro Photography (8) Insects
(1) Best Beach Destinations (5) Double Exposure Photography (1) Photography
Basics (3) Temples of India (3) Flowers (2) Wildlife Sanctuary India (2)
Elephants (1) Memorials and Convention Center (1) Places To Visit In India (3)
All tags
birds in flight (2) Alcazar Show Pattaya (1) Corbett National Park Landscapes
(1) Pen Abstract photography (1) Pencil Abstract Photography (1) Har Ki Dun Trek
(3) Annular Solar Eclipse 2020 (1) Rufous Treepie Bird (1) Republic Of Singapore
(1) Malaysia Country (1) United Arab Emirates (1) collared falconet (1) Maldives
Tour (1) Matheran Hill Station (1) Eastern Imperial Eagle (1) Nainital Mussoorie
(1) Star Trail Camera Settings (1) Sloth Bear Sanctuary Gujarat (1) Krabi Island
Tour (1) Kanchenjunga Mountain (2) Singalila National Park (3) Saw Scaled Viper
Snake (1) Rakhi Festival (1) Rhesus Macaque Monkey (1) Birds Of Prey (6) Eagles
Of India (2) Peacock (1) Gir Lions Photos (1) Adalaj Ni Vav (1) Jackal Spices
(1) Big Black Ant (1) Camouflage Insect Mantis (1) Uttarakhand Bird (5) Common
Hoopoe Bird (1) Birds Of Gujarat (29) Krishna Janmashtami (1) Little Rann Of
Kutch (8) Birds of Manali (14) Moon Photography (1) Festival Of Light (1) Thol
Bird Sanctuary (20) Best Beaches Of Goa (1) Spiders (2) Insects (6) Abstract
Photography (6) DSLR Photography Rules (3) Flowers (3) Mt Abu (1) Corbett
National Park (7) Masai Mara (5) Milky Way Photography (1) Spiti Valley (2)
National Symbols Of India (3) Phuket (1) Lizards (2) Tipu Sultan Palace (1)
Temples of India (3) Ladakh (1) Taj Mahal (1) Sikkim (2) Amboseli National Park
(5) Mahabaleshwar Lonavala Lavasa (1) Astro Photography (4) Solar Eclipse (1)
Landscape Photos (7) Best Treks In India (4) Pattaya (1) Thailand (3) Marina Bay
Sand (1) Universal Studio Singapore (1) Twin Towers Malaysia (1) Festival of
India (3) Kanchenjunga (2) Sandakphu Trek (2) Maldives Resort (1) Hill Stations
India (4) Krabi (1) Star Trail (1) Milky Way (1) Night Sky Photography (2)
Mysore Palace (1) Karnataka (1) Leh Ladakh (1) Pangong Lake (1) Nubra Valley (1)
Gir National Park (1) Asiatic Lions (1) Junagadh (2) Asian Elephant (1)
Uttarakhand (9) African Elephant (1) Big 5 Africa (3) Animals (2) Cheetah (1)
Wonders of the World (1) Taj Mahal Timings (1) Taj Mahal Ticket Price (1) Agra
(1) Fatehpur Sikri (1) Ambaji Temple (2) Ambaji Darshan Timings (1) Gabbar Hill
(1) Dubai (1) Abu Dhabi (1) Burj Khalifa (1) Desert Safari Dubai (1) Spiti
Valley Tour (2) Kaza (2) Tabo (2) Dhankar Lake (2) Chicham bridge (2) Himachal
Pradesh (13) Golden Jackal (1) Black Backed Jackal (1) Mahabaleshwar (1)
Lonavala (1) Lavasa City (1) Ganpati Temple Pune (1) Bahucharaji Temple (1)
Praying Mantis (1) Macro Photography (12) Gujarat (34) Caterpillar (1) Har Ki
Dun (2) Trek the Himalayas (3) Valley of Gods (2) Swargarohini (2) Birds (43)
Wildlife Sanctuary India (9) Vulture (1) Eagle (2) Owl (1) Dove (1) Pegion (1)
Full Moon (1) Double Exposure (1) Carpenter Ant (1) Ant (1) Matheran (1) Hill
Stations Maharashtra (1) Nainital (1) Mussoorie (1) Naini Lake (1) Maldives (1)
Paradise Island Resort (1) Dubai City Tour (1) Dubai Marina (1) Ferrari World
(1) Ski Dubai (1) Big Bus Tour Dubai (1) Long Tail Bird (6) Jessore Sloth Bear
Sanctuary (4) Genting Highland (1) Singapore Flyer (1) Lions (2) National Bird
of India (1) National Animal of India (1) Viper Snake (1) Reptiles (2) Venomous
Snakes (1) Saw Scaled Viper (1) Monkey (2) Kalij Pheasant (1) Pheasant (1)
Adalaj Stepwell (1) Phi Phi Island (2) Poda Island (1) Birds of India (31)
Flycatcher (4) Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher (1) Indian White Eye (1) Twilight (1)
Goa (1) Baga Beach (1) Calangute Beach (1) North Goa Beaches (1) South Goa
Beaches (1) Verditer Flycatcher (1) Wolf Spider (1) Himalayan Bulbul (1) Black
Bulbul (1) Great Barbet (1) Science Experiments (1) Demoiselle Crane (1)
Migratory Birds (7) Big Buddha Phuket (1) Wat Chalong (1) Fantasea Show Phuket
(1) Yellow Billed Blue Magpie (1) Flower Images (1) Darjeeling (2) Sandakphu (3)
Sleeping Buddha Moutain (1) Little Pied Flycatcher (1) Indian Wild Ass (1)
Indian Onager (1) Gudkhar (1) Rock Bunting (1) Indian Elephant (1) Elephant (2)
Egyptian Vulture (1) Black Tailed Godwit (1) Mount Abu (1) Nakki Lake (1) Guru
Shikhar (1) Rajasthan (2) Wader Birds (9) Grey Headed Swamphen (1) Ranthambore
National Park (1) Tigers of India (1) Tigers (1) Eurasion Collared Dove (1)
Horizons (1) Indian Paradise Flycatcher (1) Heritage places in India (4) Mysore
palaces to visit (1) White Browed Fantail (1) Russet Sparrow (1) Sparrow (1)
Flamingo (1) Flamingo Bird (1) Langza (2) Komic (2) Hikkim (2) Kunzum Pass (2)
Gue Mummy Stupa (2) Black Headed Ibis (1) Indian Grey Hornbill (1) Hornbill (1)
Alpine Accentor (1) Eurasian Hoopoe (1) Hoopoe (1) Housefly (1) Flies (1)
National Parks of India (8) Black Winged Stilt (1) Common Kingfisher (1)
Kingfisher Bird (1) Jumping Spider (1) Eurasian Curlew (1) Asian Wooly Necked
Stork (1) Stork Bird (2) Focal Length (1) Aperture (1) Photography Basics (1)
DSLR Basics (1) White Bellied Drongo (1) Bar Headed Goose (1) Meteor Shower (1)
Geminid Meteor Shower (1) Time-laps Photography (1) Bay Backed Shrike (1) Shrike
Bird (1) Montagu's Harrier (1) Velavadar National Park (1) Raptors (1) Ruddy
Shelduck (1) Brahminy Duck (1) Mahatma Mandir (1) Gandhi Kutir (1) Dandi Kutir
(1) Painted Stork (1) Dholavira (2) Kutch (6) Harappan Civilization (1) Harappan
Civilization Sites (1) Rose (1) Pink-browed rosefinch (1) Asian Openbill Stork
(1) Road To Heaven (3) White Desert Kutch (3) Yellow Baboon (1) Vervet Monkey
(1) Kenya (4) Vijay Vilas Palace (1) Bhuj (2) Mandvi Beach (2) Indian Pond Heron
(1) Gangtok (1) Lachen (1) Lachung (1) Nathula Pass (1) Chopta Valley Sikkim (1)
Yumthang Valley (1) African Lion (1) Big Cats (2) Oriental Garden Lizard (1)
Indian Garden Lizard (1) Kadiya Dhro (1) Grand Canyon of India (1) Indian Lotus
(1) Lotus (1) Chhatardi (1) Little Cormorant (1) White Wagtail (1) Salt Desert
Kutch (1) Rann Utsav (1) Great Rann of Kutch (1) Girnar (1) Dattatreya Temple
(1) Ambaji Temple Girnar (1)
Popular blog post
Greater Flamingo In Gujarat

It is the largest species of Flamingo bird family and also a most widespread
species of flamingo family.It is found in India ,south east , middle east and
Africa. It is migratory bird. They also breed in India. In Gujarat they breed in
Rann Of Kutch , Little Rann of Kutch also found in Thol Bird Sanctuary. I often
visit Thol sanctuary so got good shots of them. Best time for shoot them is
may-Jun at Thol bird sanctuary bcz of water level is too low . It is been
recorded that some flamingo birds are resident in Gujarat at many places like
LRK, Khijadia sanctuary, Nalsarovar and Thol Sanctuary. They also breed here and
stay for all seasons. So you can find greater flamingo birds in all seasons in
Gujarat at many places. 



Flamingo bird facts and description : 

Greater flamingo bird is the largest living spices of flamingo. Greater flamingo
has no subspices. Flamingo color most of pinkish white in plumage. Wings are red
and feathers are black in end. Greater Flamingo bird call is like honking. The
average lifespan of flamingo bird is 30-40 years. Main Difference between
Greater flamingo and lesser flamingo is height . Lesser flamingo is shorter than
greater flamingo. Also Greater flamingo has pale pink bill and black tip. In
other case lesser flamingo has dark crimson bill. Lesser flamingo is also more
red in color than greater flamingos.

Greater Flamingo birds In Thol Lake : Thol sanctuary is often i visit. Flamingo
birds are stay here all seasons. I got good numbers of Greater flamingo and
lesser flamingo bird images in a group when i visit Thol. This is my best time
with flamingos. Also i got some beautiful pictures of flamingo birds with group
and also in duo with some masti. Flamingos looks very good in frame bcz of their
color. Thol lake is good place for birders because more than 150 birds spices
found here. Also some mammals like Blue bull and black buck also found here.
Lots of water birds and tree birds found here. Also sanctuary is not so big so
you can find all birds in around 6 sqkm area. Best time to visit thol lake is
November to March. All migratory birds are visit in winter so that is best time.
Early morning is best for birders. 

Timing And Fees of Thol Sanctuary :

Thol Sanctuary open at 6 AM in morning and close at around 5 PM

Fees of Thol Sanctuary is 50 INR per person and camera fees are 200 INR. Car
fees are 500 INR. 

Weekend fees may change that actually i don't know about it. 















Two flamingos with little egret in between of them with down head all. The
images of flamingo bird making a good frame. Because of its color flamingo birds
images are very attractive and also their grouping make a perfect frame of
flamingo bird picture.





A morning pared time for flamingo birds. A beautiful Greater flamingo birds are
in a raw make image nice and show their unity. 



Perfact wingspan of Flamingo bird looks great. Pink Wings make image more
attractive.







Solo Greater flamingo bird 



Some masti time for two flamingo birds .



Above image shows the discipline of Flamingo Bird and looks like a morning pared
they are doing . 



https://youtu.be/9dVBrR9NSOo



A group of Flamingo Birds at Thol Lake make your frame awesome.

Location : Thol Lake, Gujarat

Thol lake is just 25 km approx. from Ahmedabad. You can visit one day for Thol
lake is enough. Also you can find another migratory birds like pelicans , bar
headed goose, river tern and many more resident spices.

Ahmedabad to Thol lake distance about 25km

Common Kingfisher _ Small Blue Kingfisher Common Kingfisher is also known as
Eurasian Kingfisher or River Kingfisher.  It is sparrow size bird with blue
color on top of the body.  It is widely distributed in North Africa and Eurasia.
When rivers freezes in winter they migrate from their. In India common
kingfisher also a widely distributed in all over region. They generally found
near to the water areas like canals, rivers, river birdges, ponds etc. I took a
shot of common kingfisher or Eurasian Kingfisher at Thol bird sanctuary located
in Gujarat near Sanand.





Description and facts about Common Kingfisher :It is about 16cm long and 25cm
with wingspan.Its weight around 35-44 gm.It has short tail as all kingfisher
tail is short.It has green blue upperparts and it has green blue neck
stripe.Juvenile is similar to adult but dull underparts.Main flight feathers
moult between july to november and it will takes 90-100 days to grow.Kingfisher
flight too fast on low water.It is widely distributed in Europe, Asia and North
Africa ( winter visitor ).Common kingfisher eats 60% of its body every
day.Common Kingfisher lays 2-10 eggs which are white glossy in color.



Common Kingfisher in Gujarat :

Common Kingfisher or Small Blue Kingfisher found in Gujarat at many places like
Thol Bird Sanctuary, Nalsarovar Bird sanctuary, Velavdar Sanctuary and many
other outskirts of Wetlands too. They are very small and cute in look. There are
lots of kingfisher bird spices found in Gujarat also. 
Jumping Spider | Little Rann of Kutch

There are lots of Spider spices in the world. Spiders are good subject to shoot
as a macro photo. Actually spiders are everywhere along to home and gardens.
Jumping spider are group of spider constitute the family  salticidae. This
family contained over 600 described genera and over 6000 spices. Jumping spiders
are easily identify from other spiders from their eyes and shape. The jumping
spiders have faces that are roughly rectangular surface. The eyes are forward
looking on flat face. The body length of jumping spider are around 1 to 25 mm.
They generally found in forest , desert, scrub lands,temperate forest
too. Toxicity of jumping spider is very less for humans. so jumping spider bite
is not poisonous. Spiders are not insects because they belongs to family
Salticidae and classified as Arachnids.



I found jumping spider during my trip to LRK ( Little Rann Of Kutch ). also its
a live photography competition Name WILD CLICKS powered by canon in December
2019. Spiders in macro photography looks beautiful . For Macro Photography you
need good light and good camera gears.

Some Facts about Jumping spider : 

The life of jumping spider is around 6 month to 2-3 years.  Jumping spider are
shy but you can easily catch them.  They have 8 eyes.  Once you will be familiar
with spider then it enjoy your company.  As per research of Miami university
spiders like music.  Generally they build their web in corners and dense trees ,
small plants etc.All spiders are predators.Jumping spider can change sudden
blood flow in their body.Jumping spider do not use web for hunting.Jumping
spider can dance also.Jumping spider can jump 10-50 times of their body.Jumping
spider have 8 legs as all spider have 8 legs.

About Little Rann of Kutch : 

LRK or little rann of kutch is a Wild ass sanctuary of Gujarat. Sanctuary for
Indian Wild Ass but its also very well known for raptors and migratory birds.
During winter some migratory birds like flamingos, pelican, bar headed goose,
raptors, falcons, eagles, owls  are regular visitors. So the sanctuary is more
important for wildlife in Gujarat where you can find all birds, mammals and also
360 view of rann of kutch. Also some wetland areas near rann are beautiful for
sunset and sunrise. You can also get some good macro photos of insects of rann
for making good theme of COLORS OF RANN. I tried to shoot this spider with
background of sun but its too hard for me . because it cant steady on one place
for a second but got good pictures.











Gear used : Canon 80 D , Canon 6 D ,Canon 100mm Macro , Flash not fired

Location : Little Rann Of Kutch, Dasada

An Artificial Lake | Thol Bird Sanctuary

Thol bird sanctuary is located in Kadi Taluka in Mehsana District near sanand
Gujarat. It is an artificial lake located near village Thol. In 1912 thol lake
was built and it was declared as a Sanctuary in 1988. The main use of lake is
use of water for irrigation. The Thol Bird Sanctuary or a Thol lake wildlife
Sanctuary India is a habitat of more than 150 spices of birds. Also it is famous
for migratory birds Flamingos and Sarus Crane  which breeds here.



 

About Thol Lake / Thol Bird Sanctuary Thol lake is located near Thol village and
its area around 38000 acres.  Lake faces all season winter , summer and monsoon.
 During winter temperature goes to 8 degree and in summer temperature goes to 43
degree. Thol lake is under control of Forest and Irrigation department of
Gujarat. Thol lake water storage capacity is around 84 million cubic meters.
Thol wildlife sanctuary is declared as Eco Sensitive Zone .

Flora and Fauna Thol Sanctuary : Thol lake has many vegetation plants like
Zizyphus, Acacia nilotica, Ficus, Capparis, Azadirachta indica etc. There are
also some mix flora of Marshy and Aquatic plants reported in Thol Lake. Thol
lake is protected area and it is very good habitat for water birds. In thol bird
sanctuary there are more than 150 spices of birds found . Among these more than
60 % of birds are water birds. Flamingo bird is most prominent bird of Thol
Lake. Also Sarus Crane nest in large number here. 



Famous Migratory Birds of Thol Lake

•    Flamingos •    Sarus Crane •    Great White Pelican •    Mallards •    Bar
Headed Geese , Grey Headed Geese •    Waterfowl

There are also some spices reported here like Dalmatian Pelican, Indian Skimmer,
Greater Spotted Eagle, Indian Vulture and white rumped Vulture etc. In Mammals
Bluebull, Blackbuck and Golden jackal reported here.



 

Thol Lake Timing and Fees : Thol lake open everyday at 6 AM in morning and close
at 5.30 PM in evening.  Entry fees for Thol Lake or Thol sanctuary is 50 INR for
per person. Also Camera fees extra at 200 INR and if you go via car then car
fees also  500 INR. Foreigner fees are 10 $ per person.

Best Time to Visit Thol Sanctuary / Thol Lake : Best time early morning for Thol
Lake. In winter if you go before sunrise you can see Twilight sky amazing with
lake shore and birds sound .During all season Thol lake has its own beauty.
Every season you can visit at Thol Lake. But mostly during winter from November
to March season is best for Thol Sanctuary visit. Because during winter lots of
Migratory birds came here and stay for long time so for birding winter season is
best at Thol Lake. Also during summer some of birds stays here like flamingos
and pelicans, geese etc. So you can also see them in summer too.  Also during
summer water level of lake is low so may be the birds you can get in deep or
sometimes closer. During monsoon most people don’t visit but if you like macro
photography then you must visit Thol lake in monsoon. You can get some excellent
macro subjects like waterdrops , Spiders, Insects etc.



 

What to do and What not to do in Thol Lake / Keep in mind while visiting
sanctuary in India :

•    Keep silence in sanctuary •    Maintain discipline  •    Keep sanctuary
clean •    Do not throw plastic waste anywhere in sanctuary •    Protect
wildlife •    Observe birds, mammals etc and protect them and identify them •  
 Follow rules of wildlife protection act -1972 •    Don’t disturb birds and
animals •    Don’t enter in sanctuary with liquor and inflammable objects •  
 Don’t make loud noice. •    Enter in sanctuary with permit only and keep
receipt till you leave sanctuary •    Don’t feed birds and animals







Where to Stay near Thol Lake : Well near to Thol Lake there are not good places
to stay at night but you can go near to destinations like Kadi, Kalol or
Gandhinagar , Ahmedabad where you can get good places to stay at night. Nearest
I suggest Kalol around 15-18 km or you can go Ahmedabad around 25 km. 









 



Places to Visit near Thol Lake :  If you are staying at Ahmedabad then go for
Ahmedabad Darshan , Pol area of Ahmedabad and Adalaj Ni Vav ( Heritage places )
etc. Also go for fast food test at night at Manek Chauk and SindhuBhavan road
there are lots of option for food lovers like Urban Chauk, Freezbee etc.

If you stay at Gandhinagar then visit Mahatma Mandir at Gandhinagar, Sarita
udyan , Akshardham Temple etc. 

I would suggest Modhera Sun Temple if you had some more time which is around
100km from Ahmedabad. For bird lovers and bird photographer I would suggest
visit Little ran of Kutch (LRK) during Winter season, Pariej Lake, Indroda park
Gandhinagar, Jessore Sanctuary Banaskantha etc.

How to Reach Thol Sanctuary : Nearest airport is Ahmedabad and from Ahmedabad
thol lake distance is around 30-40 km Also for Railway station is Ahmedabad
because you can get all frequency and destinations from Ahmedabad railway
station.  

Horizons Photography | Little Rann of Kutch

What is HORIZONS ? :: The horizon is the apparent line that separates Earth from
sky. The true horizons can observed when it lines on the sea surface. Also many
locations this line is made by Lands, Trees, Buildings, Mountains etc.The
Horizon line divides all visible directions into two categories : those that
intersect the Earth surface and those that don't. The horizon line is horizontal
like to feel like end of earth no end of Earth surface . The Images of Horizons
or skyline taken at Little Rann of Kutch . I tried to shoot many locations but
sometimes not gonna happen that. Little Rann of Kutch is good place for Horizon
photography bcz flat surface and 360 degree view. Above photo we passed thorough
rann and i saw car trek on ground and line goes end of surface looks beautiful.



Horizon Height and distance calculation : 

Well if you want to see horizon then you have to observe from 5-7 feet above sea
level. Also you need clear land about 3-5 km distance then you can see clear
Horizon line. In cities there are lots of disturbance like buildings, trees,
towers etc so you can not see the clear horizons. For horizon line  to see you
need clear land area or water area. Best area for Horizon line is in between
sea. In ocean there is clear Horizon line you can see easily. Also sunrise and
sunset time horizons are amazing to see because of Twilight sky colors. Well all
of these photos are not taken from 7 feet height and distance may not 3-5 km but
its still you can see Horizons clearly. Photos taken from ground level but the
rann area is clear so you can see horizons line from ground level.

For calculation of Horizon distance equation is  ::  Square root ( Height /
0.5736 ) and the result you get distance of Horizons.

Best Place To See Horizon lines :

The best place to see horizons are beaches. Because you can see clear line
between Sky and Earth. Well where i live in Gujarat i have also one place name
Little Rann of Kutch where i can see clear Horizon line as you can see in photos
of Horizons. Little rann of Kutch is best place for me because its very near to
me like about 2 hours car drive. Here there are huge number of raptors you can
see in winter seasons. Lots of Migratory birds came here and the most important
about Little Rann ot Kutch is Indian Wild Ass. Indian wild ass found only in
Gujarat in this region only.



All Images taken at Little Rann of Kutch, Guajrat. Little rann of kutch known as
LRK also famous for raptors and Indian Wild Ass. Lots of migratory birds coming
here in winter. So never miss a change to visit LRK in Gujarat. LRK also very
nice place for Star Gazing  and Star Trail Photography, Time laps Photography.

Camera used : Canon 6 D, Canon 100-400 mm lens, Canon 50mm lens, canon 18-55 mm
lens

 

LENSMAGIK.COM

LINKS

 * Home
 * About Me
 * Privacy Policy

CONTACT INFORMATION

info@lensmagik.com
789456123
Gujarat, Bharat

© 2024 Lensmagik.com. All rights reserved.

 * 
 * 
 * 
 * 
 * 



 * 6
   Shares
 * Post
 * Share
 * Pin
 * Share
 * Copy
 * Share
 * Mail
 * Share


 * Pin