Almeida's revelation removes the last legitimate reason for keeping any of the JFK files secret. Even though their release was required by the 1992 JFK Act -- passed unanimously by Congress, due to the efforts of Senators like John Kerry and Christopher Dodd -- "well over a million CIA records" about the assassination remain secret until 2017. The Secret Service admitted destroying key records in 1995, three years after the law was passed, an incident that has never been investigated by Congress. And in late September 2006, a federal judge ignored the JFK Act when he threw out a lawsuit by a Washington Post reporter seeking files about Oswald, which the CIA had lied about withholding from the 1978 House Select Committee on Assassinations (which included then-Congressman Dodd).

Recently declassified files show that in addition to protecting Almeida, agencies from the CIA to the FBI to Naval Intelligence also withheld information to hide their own intelligence failures and domestic surveillance operations, as well as to protect the reputations of their own agencies and key officials. Santayana said, "those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." That is certainly true in this case since, as the following examples show, that is true in this case since all the secrecy has impacted US domestic and foreign policy for decades, and continues to do so.

• The JFK-Almeida coup plan (codenamed AMWORLD by the CIA) came about because of the failure to resolved the October 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. As JFK's Secretary of State Dean Rusk revealed to us -- and files later confirmed -- JFK's pledge not to invade Cuba never took effect because of Fidel's refusal to allow "UN inspections" for "weapons of mass destruction" that were part of JFK's deal with the Soviets to end the crisis. JFK, not Bush, was the first president to use those terms -- and to suffer tragic consequences because problems with such inspections led to an attempt to overthrow a foreign dictator.

• The JFK-Almeida coup failed because it was infiltrated by three Mafia bosses targeted for prosecution by Attorney General Robert Kennedy (who played the leading role in managing the coup plan for his brother). The Mafia chiefs -- banned by the Kennedys from the coup plan, and from reopening their casinos in Cuba -- infiltrated the CIA's portion of the coup plan, and used parts of it to kill JFK in Dallas. This forced key US officials -- RFK, LBJ, and J. Edgar Hoover -- into a cover-up to protect Almeida and prevent a possible nuclear confrontation with the Soviets, a cover-up which continued for decades.

• The Mafia bosses infiltrated the JFK-Almeida coup plan using contacts established during Richard Nixon's first "October Surprise," in 1960. The CIA admits it was working with the Mafia chiefs at that time, in an attempt to assassinate Fidel just before the 1960 election between Nixon and JFK. Unknown to JFK, the CIA continued using the Mafia bosses in their own anti-Castro operations into October and November of 1963, giving the mobsters a way to infiltrate JFK's coup plan with Almeida.

• Robert Kennedy knew who killed his brother, and even told associates about the leading role of New Orleans godfather Carlos Marcello. But RFK couldn't tell the Warren Commission or the public -- or even allow a thorough investigation -- without endangering Almeida and risking World War III. The FBI finally got a detailed confession from Marcello in 1985 when he was in prison, thanks to a trusted FBI informant deemed credible by a Federal judge. But the FBI and the Reagan-Bush Justice Department withheld it from the public. They also refused to prosecute Marcello for numerous crimes the godfather confessed to on hundreds of hours of tapes generated by a court-authorized bug in his prison cell. This allowed Marcello to go free, after he was released from prison on a technicality. All of those 1985 tapes are still being withheld more than a decade after the godfather's death.

• The JFK-Almeida coup plan -- and the Mafia's infiltration of it -- was withheld from the Warren Commission and at least six Congressional Committees, and some of those involved are still active in politics. Current Senator Arlen Specter was the Warren Commission attorney who dealt with two JFK aides who said they were pressured to alter their testimony about seeing shots from the grassy knoll "for the good of the country."

• A dozen veterans of the JFK-Almeida coup plan -- and the Mafia's infiltration of it -- were involved in Watergate, though it was withheld from Congress and Justice Department prosecutors (including Ben-Veniste, later a member of the 9-11 Commission). At that time, Robert Bennett -- now a Senator from Utah -- had employed one of those veterans and was feeding information to Bob Woodward to protect the CIA.

• Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld were key officials in the Ford Administration -- and George H. W. Bush was CIA Director -- when information about the Mafia's infiltration of the JFK-Almeida coup plan was withheld from the Senate Church Committee (including Gary Hart and Walter Mondale) and Congress's Pike Committee.

• Several veterans of the JFK-Almeida coup plan later surfaced in Iran-Contra, during the Reagan-Bush Administration. Some were involved with then-US Ambassador John Negroponte, currently the National Intelligence Director. But relevant information about the JFK-Almeida coup plan and the Mafia's infiltration of it was withheld from the Iran-Contra Committee (co-chaired by Lee Hamilton, later a member of the 9-11 Commission), and Senator John Kerry's Subcommittee on Narcotics.

• Even after Kerry and Dodd helped to spearhead the 1992 JFK Act, the CIA and other agencies continued to withhold key information. US military and CIA veterans of the JFK-Almeida coup plan began a new outreach to high Cuban military officials in the mid-1990s. While those in the US military seemed sincere, this outreach would also allow the CIA to claim the 1963 files couldn't be released because the same people were still involved in the same type of active, ongoing operation.

• In the 1990s, numerous US coup attempts against Saddam failed for the same basic reason the JFK-Almeida coup plan failed (and one even resulted in an assassination attempt against President George H. W. Bush). Likewise, several of the key intelligence failures by the Bush Administration, the CIA, and the FBI in the months before 9-11 mirror those in declassified files about the 1963 intelligence failures that preceded JFK's assassination. But because of all the secrecy, those failures were never exposed. The lessons of history couldn't be learned, so the same agencies kept making the same mistakes -- and history kept repeating itself.

That will continue to be the tragic case, unless the public demands that Congress no longer allow the agencies and the courts to ignore the 1992 JFK Act. It's not just a partisan issue. Rep. Christopher Shays was the first member of Congress to acknowledge the files that are still being withheld, in the March 14, 2006 hearings of his National Security Subcommittee. Now that the US government has declassified Commander Almeida's secret work for JFK, there is no legitimate reason to withhold the "well over a million CIA records" and not to investigate the files the Secret Service and other agencies admit destroying.

As for Almeida, both RFK and the CIA were certain he was sincere in 1963 and not a double agent, and the evidence backs that up. Fidel only learned about Almeida's work for JFK in 1990, after which Almeida disappeared for several years. Fidel allowed him to rejoin the Cuban government because now -- as in 1963 -- he is one of the highest Black officials in Cuba, an important consideration in a country where some estimate that seventy percent of the population is of African descent. Almeida's family is safe because after RFK and the CIA helped them leave Cuba on a pretext in the fall of 1963, they never returned to Cuba to live.

Because Almeida's family and his work for JFK have been officially declassified, we can now tell the full story of the JFK-Almeida coup -- and its penetration by Marcello -- in the new, updated trade paperback edition of our book Ultimate Sacrifice: John and Robert Kennedy, the Plan for a Coup in Cuba, and the Murder of JFK. As it details, there was not a large conspiracy that killed JFK -- none of those named in this article were involved, except Marcello -- but there was a big effort to protect Almeida and to cover-up information that could harm the reputations of agencies and key officials.

With the publicity surrounding the release of the JFK-Almeida coup plan, this may be America's last chance to get the files JFK released before the year 2017 (when all the files are supposed to be released). With every member of Congress -- and a third of the Senate -- up for re-election, is there any reason to vote for a candidate who doesn't want to see the law enforced and all the JFK files released?

by

Gyandotccom

Nagaland in the north eastern frontiers of India is a linguist’s paradise where not less than 23 different indigenous languages are spoken in full vigor. Though English is the official language in Nagaland, It is Nagamese (a pidgin arising out of Assamese, Hindi, English and various Naga languages) which rules the roost across the state. Though the origin of Nagamese is unknown, it is evident from the accounts of Lt. Bigges (Tour Diary 1841) that this pidgin was in vogue before the British soldiers set their feet in the Naga Hills. The earliest record of Nagamese is found in Hutton (1921) with a few lexical items and phrases in the pidgin. Hutton (1921) says

‘the Assamese as spoken in the Naga Hills is peculiarly well adapted for the reproduction of Naga idioms as a vehicle of interpretation. It makes a better lingua franca for the Hills than Hindustani or English would, the substitution of which for Assamese has been occasionally suggested.’

Hutton is referring to Nagamese when he is writing of Assamese of Naga Hills. Similarly Haimendorf (Von Furer Haimendorf, The Naked Nagas, 1939, London) writes

‘fortunately many people including children spoke fluently Nagamese, the lingua franca of entire Naga Hills’.

The spread of Nagamese according to Sreedhar (M.V. Shreedhar, 1985, Standardized Grammar of Naga Pidgin, Mysore) is due to several factors. He cites the construction of roads, penetration of Marwari traders in far flung areas, and various state and central agencies bringing Non-Nagas in Nagaland as the primary reason for the spread of Nagamese. It is absolutely clear that neither colonization nor subjugation was responsible for the birth of Nagamese.

Today Nagamese is used for diverse inter-lingual communication situations such as Schools, market, hospital, legislative assembly, and even in churches. Moreover the emergence of a unified Naga identity irrespective of tribal affiliations has led to situations where it has acquired the role of a mother tongue of the child born out of wedlock of people from two different communities. Nagamese is increasingly used in informal conversation though formal discourse is still done in English or any other indigenous language. Youth use it profusely among themselves on the streets of Kohima, Dimapur, Mokukchung and outside Nagaland etc.

Knowing a little of Nagamese in Nagaland comes handy when one decides to visit this beautiful state in the Far East. Nagamese is like a song you would like to sing time and again.

Here are some SURVIVAL PHRASES in Nagamese based on Dr. N. Khashito Aye’s book titled Nagamese: the Lingua Franca of Nagaland, 2007 (published by Christian Education Ministry, Sugar Mill, 5^th Mile, Dimapur- 7977112, Nagaland).

SURVIVAL PHRASES in NAGAMESE

And I end this piece with a Nagamese Love song by Kevilinuo Vizo:

Moi laagaa darling

Moi laagaa darling bishi sunder,

Tai laagaa bosti moi najaane,

Beraai beraai kenaa thing bekhaaise

Biyanpabi salam di aase

Ek din noholie, dui din noholie

Love kuribo etu time te koi dibo de,

Eki logote rastaa rastaa beraabo,

Itu din rukhi aase darling.

Post photo courtesy: http://miyzone.blogspot.com/2007/08/different-houses-nagaland-heritage.html

At least four people have been killed in a bomb blast at a crowded market in the north-eastern Indian state of Assam, police say.

Fifty others were wounded in the explosion at Kumarikata in the west of the state near the border with Bhutan.

Police blamed the attack on separatist rebels belonging to the United Liberation Front of Assam (Ulfa). They said the bomb was in response to a truce announced by some Ulfa commanders which the group's top leaders oppose.

'Heinous'

"The bombs exploded when there were hundreds of villagers in the market. This is a serious attack and a very heinous one," said Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi. The BBC's Subir Bhaumik in Calcutta says a number of the wounded have been taken for treatment to the Assam state capital, Guwahati.

Assam police intelligence chief Khagen Sharmah told the BBC the explosion was a "direct reaction" to the ceasefire declaration by some Ulfa commanders. "There is no doubt that such a powerful explosion can be done by only one group in Assam and that is the Ulfa," he said. Ulfa has not said it carried out the bombing or denied it. The group began an armed rebellion against what it describes as colonial rule by Delhi in 1979. Thousands of people have died in the violence.

An effort to start peace talks between the rebels and the Indian government broke down in 2006. The rebels are seeking a separate homeland for the Assamese people and demanding the departure of the non-indigenous population, particularly Hindi speakers. Earlier in June, some Ulfa commanders started secret negotiations with the Assam government and the Indian army, following which they announced a ceasefire. Top Ulfa leaders say they have fallen into a "government trap".

Rebels sink Indian police launch

Forty police officers are feared drowned in eastern India after a police motor boat capsized after coming under attack from a suspected Maoist rebels. More than 50 members of an elite anti-insurgency force were aboard the boat, which was patrolling the Chitrakonda reservoir in Orissa state. The suspected rebels - who have been fighting the Indian government for decades - opened fire from a hilltop. Eight of the officers managed to swim to the shore, but 40 are still missing. A local Superintendent of Police, Satish Kumar Gajbhiye, told the BBC there were about 60 men on the boat - four of them, including two drivers of the motor launch, from the Orissa police force. The rest were from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. Four of the survivors had gunshot injuries and were being treated in hospital, he added. A rescue operation involving fire brigade personnel and helicopters has been launched. But the BBC's Sandeep Sahu says that the water level in the sprawling reservoir is about 40m (131ft), and there is little chance of any survivors being found. He adds that the incident is one of the biggest setbacks for security forces fighting insurgents in the thickly forested border areas of Andhra Pradesh, long considered a safe haven for the Maoists. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has described the Maoist uprising as the biggest internal security threat the country faces.

Fortunately, today's post is not about me as the name suggests. I want to learn about the teas you have been drinking during the past week. What's new? What's a favorite and possibly new to me?

Nevertheless, here is what you were drinking last week...

 1. Summer of Felicitea... my poster child for new tea experimentation enjoyed a nice assam, hopefully after seeing this post she'll provide me with the name and where to purchase. Summer has been trying new teaware and brewing styles this week trying to determine what if any impact it has on some of her favorite teas.  Update: The Assam Summer was drinking is Season's Pick Mokalbari East FBOP from Upton Tea Imports. Thanks Summer for the update!

2. This week I enjoyed and reviewed Super Irish Breakfast Black Tea and White Monkey Paw Tea. You can read the reviews right here on Tea Escapade by simply clicking the link. Both teas were distinctively different - one being black and the other a cross between white and green tea. Nevertheless, the quality of the White Monkey Paw Tea was superb. You'll have to try it for yourself.

It seems this week that Summer and I were the only tea lovers drinking new teas. Please visit and share What's New In Your Cup this week, I cannot wait to share what's in mine.  Until then... Happy Tea Drinking!

Today, the food prices are rising globally, being compelled by severe competition due to reduced international supplies of wheat, maize, rice, and other agricultural commodities. As concern grows over the risk of food shortages and instability in dozens of low-income countries, global attention is turning to an age-old crop that could help ease the strain of food price inflation. The compliant crop of potato is potentially very useful as it can be grown easily in many parts of the world and is a rich source of nutritious food. The nutritional value of potato along with its taste and ease of cooking has made it the most popular crop in the entire world. Potato is a good source of calories, hence people with low income in many developing countries, who cannot afford high-calorie diet such as milk products, meat and pulses, use potatoes as their prime source of calories. Potatoes are rich in carbohydrates, making them a good source of energy. They have very high protein content and are a useful source of vitamin C. Potatoes are considered good for high blood pressure patients and for the patients of hyper acidity. Compared to one cup of milk, it has seven times more iron, the same amount of thiamine, and eight times more niacin. Besides it is a rich source of minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. Not only is it easily digested, inexpensive and healthy, it is cholesterol-free and 99% fat free.
In the times of population explosion, squatted economy and world food security concerns it is very practical to aim at promoting the development of such sustainable systems that augment the well-being of producers and consumers and help realize the full potential of a crop as a 'food for the future'. Over the next two decades, the population of the world is expected to rise on average by more than 100 million people a year and more than 95 percent of that increase will occur in the developing countries, where pressure on land and water is already intense. The potato should be a chief constituent in policies aimed at providing nutritious food for the poor and hungry. It is ideally suited to places where land is limited and labor is abundant that is the conditions that typify much of the developing world. The potato produces more nutritious food more quickly, on less land, and in harsher climates than any other major crop. Moreover, up to 85 percent of the plant is edible human food, compared to around 50% in cereals.

India is the biggest potato producer after China and Russia and has 1.28 million hectares under potato. The country's annual output runs to 22.49 million metric tons. The major potato producing states in India are Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Assam, Karnataka and Uttaranchal. Today, India is one of the highly populated nations in the world. A key challenge is to ensure food security for present and future generations and to feed all of its population, while protecting the natural resource base on which we all depend, therefore, no crop other than potato can make an impact and sustain the efforts to meet those challenges.

However, the lack of adequate storage facilities and inadequate infrastructure to facilitate the transportation and marketing of processed potato products continue to impede the development of large-scale potato processing in India.

More efforts must be undertaken in order to extract this untapped potential and making the country productive and self sufficient. This year let us join hands in creating better awareness in enhancing the further progress of this wonder crop and accord it due importance in the interest of the country's food security.

On the way from Bagdogra or Siliguri, the transport stops at Kurseong to give its occupants some relaxation. One can stretch ones limbs while looking around this little town known as a Sub-division of Darjeeling district. It commands a direct view of the plains nearly 5, 000 feet below.

The journey to Kalimpong, via Darjeeling, along the Peshok Road takes one through an almost virgin forest, interspersed occasionally by clearings where tea is grown and villages are to be found. Visitors will long remember the magnificient view that is seen from the View Point – half way down the Peshok Road. After traveling through a world bounded by gigantic trees, one rounds a bend and is presented suddenly with a glorious view of the valley and the towering mountains beyond. Far below, one can see the confluence of the Rangeet and Teesta Road Rivers, mingling together with a muffled roar in a swift flow of turbulent blue green water.

The town is centered around its large market square with the Deolo and Durbindara Hills to the North and South, respectively. The world knows St. Andrews’ Grahams Homes which is situated in the Deolo Hills. This School not only educates the children but also trains them up in all spheres of art and industry, so that when they leave school set out into the world, they are ready to take up any work without undergoing any further practical training.

Kalimpong has a feature of its own with its picturesque setting as it is the home in this district of Arts and Crafts Industry. During Haat (market) days, people from all surrounding bustees, villages and from the border of Sikkim are to be found holding stalls to sell their products such as vegetable, ghee (butter), foodgrains etc. After selling their products, they buy their requirements and prepare to return to their destinations after seeing a Cinema show and enjoying some Tibetan food and a glass of country liquor, Pachawal or Tongba, served in a hollowed bamboo container which refreshes them for their long tedious journey back.

Sikkim is situated to the North, forming a wedge between Bhutan to the East and Nepal to the West. The great Tibetan plateau lies to the north of Sikkim itself.

Although Sikkim is only 65 miles long and 45 miles broad, yet it contains some fo the finest mountain and ravine scenery in the world. The Kanchenjunga range is viewed in all its splendour, while the Everest massif can be seen from many advantageous points. The Teesta River with its tributaries drains Sikkim and the Teesta Valley is a magnificient gorge, wonderful and awe-inspiring when in flood. Sikkim has no low foot-hills when approached from the plains: the mountains descend abruptly on to the “Dooars” the famous tea district of Bengal and Assam.

Like Darjeeling District, Sikkim too was originally inhabited by the Lepchas. The Lepchas first settled in Sikkim in the 12^th Century, A. D. In 1641, most of them were converted to Buddhism by Lama Missionaries from Tibet, and they consecrated their Maharajah. Sikkim has weathered two foreign invasions and conquests. At present she is a state of the Indian Union.

Trekking in Sikkim presents no difficulties to the average trekker. Roads, bridle paths and Dak Bungalows are in evidence everywhere, and no fear need to entertained as to one’s personal safety or to their belongs. The best time for trekking is October and November.

A one day trip to Gangtok, capital of Sikkim should be on the itinerary of every visitor to Darjeeling. It is possible to trek it, taking advantage of the “Dak Bungalows” along the route, but most people do the 122 miles return trip by taxi. The first leg of the journey is done along the Peshok Road to Kalimpong and the Coronation Bridge over the Teesta River is reached. The road is narrow and tortuous, a marvel of engineering.

From the Coronation Bridge the road branches off towards Rangpoo, the border post between Darjeeling Hills and Sikkim. Another bridge is crossed-not as impressive as the Coronation Bridge – and one finds oneself in Sikkim.

The road at this stage of the journey runs parallel to the Teesta River – a swiftly running blue-green stream. Soon the road, leaving the river-side begins to wend its way gradually up-hill towards Gangtok.

The scenery during this stage of the journey is beautiful beyond description. One finds oneself at an elevation where it is neither too hot nor too cold. The car passes through rich cultivated fields, smiling in the pleasant sun.

Gangtok’s tiny market square – the focal point of the town presents one of the most picturesque scenes to be seen anywhere. Tibetans, Bhutanese, Sikkimese and Nepalese mingling about; mule caravans, with their wild-looking muleteers, plodding past with their bells tinkling gaily.

A visit to the Royal Palace is well worth while. Guards, clad in their traditional uniform, stand vigilant at the gates. The palace is perhaps one of the most beautiful specimens of its kind. The Lama dances held here in December attract hundreds of visitors. The state itself is well laid out and maintained.

With the construction of all weather road to the Nathula pass, the 14, 300 feet high pass into Tibet, visitors are given yet another opportunity of viewing some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the world. The road to Nathula passes through Karpanang, the Changu Lakes and Sherathang: it winds its way gradually up to a height of 14, 300 feet and its 34 and half miles from Gangtok.

The scenery at Nathula is grand and impressive. To the left arises a multitude of peaks which stand as a barrier between Sikkim and Tibet, while on the right, ravines lead down between lesser peaks. Rhododendron bushes cover the mountain sides, giving way to pine and fir trees at higher altitudes and waterfalls cascade down at regular intervals besides the road.

Foreign tourists’ seeking to visit Sikkim must apply for a permit to the Deputy Commissioner, Darjeeling, fro a trip to Gangtok. For Nathula Pass, an application for a special permit has to be obtained from New Delhi through the proper channel. For tourists coming through Delhi it is suggested that they make a direct and personal approach to the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi, which would facilitate the issue of such a permit. Applications made from Darjeeling may be delayed and should a tourist’s stay here be short, he may feel disappointed.

TREKS IN AND AROUND DARJEELING: The Darjeeling and Sikkim regions are a trekker’s paradise. Not only can there be found some of the world’s best mountain scenery, it is also of easy accessibility, thus making trekking a pleasure even for the least initiated.

The whole of the surrounding country is interesting with well maintained bridle paths, comfortable and well furnished Bungalows placed at easy stages along the route. Treks can extend from short ones of a few days, to longer ones lasting a month, and to even more ambitious ones that will bring trekker to the very foot of the everlasting snows.

Trekking in the District is of particular delight to the botanist and entomologist, who will encounter myriads of interesting specimens and species. Pleasure seekers without any hobby whatsoever, will still be adequately rewarded with vision of the snows, the ever changing effects of light and shadow on the forest – clad mountains, the fragrant air of the woodlands, or the bracing breezes on the mountain-tops. The whole area is a paradise for artists and photographers.

Intending trekkers should plan carefully in advance, as treks entail entry permits (in the case of Sikkim) reservations of Dak Bungalows, the hiring of porters, and an adequate supply of good provisions and other necessities. The best times of the year for trekking in the Darjeeling Region are between October and January, and during April and May. For further details and advice, it is best to contact the Government of India, Tourist Information Office, Above Indian Airlines (Now only Indian) , Nehru Road, Darjeeling.

TREK NO. 1 TO PHALUT AND BACK: This round-trek usually takes 8 days, and is one of the most popular, not only because it is short, but also because of the unsurpassable views that are seen of the Kanchenjunga and the Everest Ranges.

The whole trek can be done on foot, but it is also possible to shorten and simplify the trek by going by car to Maneybhanjyang, on the Nepal border. From Maneybhanjyang, one ascends to the Tonglu Dak Bungalow, a distance of 9 miles Tonglu (10,744 feet above sea level, looks directly on Darjeeling and commands a view of the Kanchenjunga Range as well as the whole range of Eastern Sikkim.

The next day’s march brings one to Sandakphu, 14 miles away. In clear weather the view from Sandakphu is never to be forgotten; the majestic beauty of the panorama that unfolds itself to the trekker exceeds anything that is to be seen on the face of the earth, as one gazes at the highest and mightiest mountain range in the world.

The last 12 and a half miles to Phalut are fairly simple, and the view from there is very similar to the one from Sandakphu, except for the setting of the foreground. The return journey is over the same route as the outward march.

TREK NO. 2 TO PAHLUT AND RETURN via JHEPI: Instead of returning from Phalut by the same road, an alternative route back to Darjeeling presents itself along the lower forest clad slopes. The round trips takes 9 days.

Leaving Phalut one drops down by a steep bridle path to the Rammam River 7,958 feet and 7 miles away. Crossing the junction of the Rammam and Khela rivers, the Rammam Forest Bungalow is reached after a two miles march. The valley is particularly beautiful with regard to its forestation, and for the interesting view that is obtained of the Kanchenjunga Range.

The next day’s 12 miles march to the Rimbick Bungalow (7,500 feet) is along a zig-zag road that leaves the forest, dips down to the Siri Khola river, corsses it and re-enters the forest a little before the Bungalow is reached. A good view of Darjeeling is seen, and there is an interesting little Buddhist Monastery a little way from the Bungalow.

The Jhepi bungalow 4, 100 feet is prettily situated near a rivulet whose banks are thickly clothed with wild cardamom: it is 11 miles away a road that gently rises and falls as it winds its way round the mountain side. There is a fairly large and prosperous village nearby.

The last leg of the journey to Darjeeling is via Pul Bazaar. The road drops to 2,195 feet, where it crosses the little Rangneet, and the last 8 miles to Darjeeling entails a steep and steady climb. A Land Rover may be ordered to meet one 4 miles down this road.

TREK NO. 3 PHALUT AND PEMIONGCHI: Proceeding to Phalut via Maneybhanjyang, Tonglu and Sandakphu, one makes a long march of 17 miles to Dentam. The march, though long has few equals in the variety and beauty of the scenery that is met with. Leaving Phalut the road takes a short climb to the Singalila Ridge (12, 200 feet at Singalila Point) along which it travels for 3 miles. The grassy, boulder strewn mountain side, gay with flowers, and with the snows always in view, presents a pretty picture. Plunging downwards for 11 miles the road drops 8,000 feet, passing through a variety of vegetation shortly how cold it is up in Phalut, at the start of the march, it is very warm in Dentam. There is a small bazaar in the neighbourhood.

The climb to Pemiongchi, 6,920 feet, begins with the next day’s trek. The 11 miles march is enlivened by some very beautiful scenery, including scenery, including cascading waterfalls and gorgeous orchids. The full beauty of the Sikkim forests strikes one during the march to Pemiongchi.

Pemionngchi is remarkable for its monastery and different angle at which Kanchenjunga is viewed. The monastery of Sanga Choling is the older and largest in Sikkim and it means “The Sublime Perfect Lotus”. A beautiful view of the surrounding country-side can be obtained from the monastery and it is itself of great interest.

The return journey is via Rimchenpong (6,300 ft), Chakung (5,100 ft) and Badamtam (2,500 ft). The route however, can be shortened by 1 day by making a double march of 20 miles from Chakung direct to Darjeeling via Singla, Barnesbeg and Takvar Tea Estates.

FISHING: The Terai, the District’s lower region provides excellent small and big game shooting. The Teesta group of rivers – the Sevoke, Kalijhora Riyang and Gielle Khola – provide excellent fishing. A note worthy fact is the approachability of all these rivers by car from Darjeeling.

Mahseen Kutli and Indian Trout are the main sporting fish available and the best fishing months are April, May and end of June. There is no closed season. A point to be remembered is that there are few facilities for buying rods and tackles in Darjeeling.

Licenses and other details can be had from the Divisional Forest Officer, Darjeeling.

]]> http://hotstimulatingtreksntours.wordpress.com/?p=15 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 15:23:11 +0000 barunroy http://hotstimulatingtreksntours.wordpress.com/?p=15 By Barun Roy

On the way from Bagdogra or Siliguri, the transport stops at Kurseong to give its occupants some relaxation. One can stretch ones limbs while looking around this little town known as a Sub-division of Darjeeling district. It commands a direct view of the plains nearly 5, 000 feet below.

The journey to Kalimpong, via Darjeeling, along the Peshok Road takes one through an almost virgin forest, interspersed occasionally by clearings where tea is grown and villages are to be found. Visitors will long remember the magnificient view that is seen from the View Point – half way down the Peshok Road. After traveling through a world bounded by gigantic trees, one rounds a bend and is presented suddenly with a glorious view of the valley and the towering mountains beyond. Far below, one can see the confluence of the Rangeet and Teesta Road Rivers, mingling together with a muffled roar in a swift flow of turbulent blue green water.

The town is centered around its large market square with the Deolo and Durbindara Hills to the North and South, respectively. The world knows St. Andrews’ Grahams Homes which is situated in the Deolo Hills. This School not only educates the children but also trains them up in all spheres of art and industry, so that when they leave school set out into the world, they are ready to take up any work without undergoing any further practical training.

Kalimpong has a feature of its own with its picturesque setting as it is the home in this district of Arts and Crafts Industry. During Haat (market) days, people from all surrounding bustees, villages and from the border of Sikkim are to be found holding stalls to sell their products such as vegetable, ghee (butter), foodgrains etc. After selling their products, they buy their requirements and prepare to return to their destinations after seeing a Cinema show and enjoying some Tibetan food and a glass of country liquor, Pachawal or Tongba, served in a hollowed bamboo container which refreshes them for their long tedious journey back.

Sikkim is situated to the North, forming a wedge between Bhutan to the East and Nepal to the West. The great Tibetan plateau lies to the north of Sikkim itself.

Although Sikkim is only 65 miles long and 45 miles broad, yet it contains some fo the finest mountain and ravine scenery in the world. The Kanchenjunga range is viewed in all its splendour, while the Everest massif can be seen from many advantageous points. The Teesta River with its tributaries drains Sikkim and the Teesta Valley is a magnificient gorge, wonderful and awe-inspiring when in flood. Sikkim has no low foot-hills when approached from the plains: the mountains descend abruptly on to the “Dooars” the famous tea district of Bengal and Assam.

Like Darjeeling District, Sikkim too was originally inhabited by the Lepchas. The Lepchas first settled in Sikkim in the 12^th Century, A. D. In 1641, most of them were converted to Buddhism by Lama Missionaries from Tibet, and they consecrated their Maharajah. Sikkim has weathered two foreign invasions and conquests. At present she is a state of the Indian Union.

Trekking in Sikkim presents no difficulties to the average trekker. Roads, bridle paths and Dak Bungalows are in evidence everywhere, and no fear need to entertained as to one’s personal safety or to their belongs. The best time for trekking is October and November.

A one day trip to Gangtok, capital of Sikkim should be on the itinerary of every visitor to Darjeeling. It is possible to trek it, taking advantage of the “Dak Bungalows” along the route, but most people do the 122 miles return trip by taxi. The first leg of the journey is done along the Peshok Road to Kalimpong and the Coronation Bridge over the Teesta River is reached. The road is narrow and tortuous, a marvel of engineering.

From the Coronation Bridge the road branches off towards Rangpoo, the border post between Darjeeling Hills and Sikkim. Another bridge is crossed-not as impressive as the Coronation Bridge – and one finds oneself in Sikkim.

The road at this stage of the journey runs parallel to the Teesta River – a swiftly running blue-green stream. Soon the road, leaving the river-side begins to wend its way gradually up-hill towards Gangtok.

The scenery during this stage of the journey is beautiful beyond description. One finds oneself at an elevation where it is neither too hot nor too cold. The car passes through rich cultivated fields, smiling in the pleasant sun.

Gangtok’s tiny market square – the focal point of the town presents one of the most picturesque scenes to be seen anywhere. Tibetans, Bhutanese, Sikkimese and Nepalese mingling about; mule caravans, with their wild-looking muleteers, plodding past with their bells tinkling gaily.

A visit to the Royal Palace is well worth while. Guards, clad in their traditional uniform, stand vigilant at the gates. The palace is perhaps one of the most beautiful specimens of its kind. The Lama dances held here in December attract hundreds of visitors. The state itself is well laid out and maintained.

With the construction of all weather road to the Nathula pass, the 14, 300 feet high pass into Tibet, visitors are given yet another opportunity of viewing some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the world. The road to Nathula passes through Karpanang, the Changu Lakes and Sherathang: it winds its way gradually up to a height of 14, 300 feet and its 34 and half miles from Gangtok.

The scenery at Nathula is grand and impressive. To the left arises a multitude of peaks which stand as a barrier between Sikkim and Tibet, while on the right, ravines lead down between lesser peaks. Rhododendron bushes cover the mountain sides, giving way to pine and fir trees at higher altitudes and waterfalls cascade down at regular intervals besides the road.

Foreign tourists’ seeking to visit Sikkim must apply for a permit to the Deputy Commissioner, Darjeeling, fro a trip to Gangtok. For Nathula Pass, an application for a special permit has to be obtained from New Delhi through the proper channel. For tourists coming through Delhi it is suggested that they make a direct and personal approach to the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi, which would facilitate the issue of such a permit. Applications made from Darjeeling may be delayed and should a tourist’s stay here be short, he may feel disappointed.

TREKS IN AND AROUND DARJEELING: The Darjeeling and Sikkim regions are a trekker’s paradise. Not only can there be found some of the world’s best mountain scenery, it is also of easy accessibility, thus making trekking a pleasure even for the least initiated.

The whole of the surrounding country is interesting with well maintained bridle paths, comfortable and well furnished Bungalows placed at easy stages along the route. Treks can extend from short ones of a few days, to longer ones lasting a month, and to even more ambitious ones that will bring trekker to the very foot of the everlasting snows.

Trekking in the District is of particular delight to the botanist and entomologist, who will encounter myriads of interesting specimens and species. Pleasure seekers without any hobby whatsoever, will still be adequately rewarded with vision of the snows, the ever changing effects of light and shadow on the forest – clad mountains, the fragrant air of the woodlands, or the bracing breezes on the mountain-tops. The whole area is a paradise for artists and photographers.

Intending trekkers should plan carefully in advance, as treks entail entry permits (in the case of Sikkim) reservations of Dak Bungalows, the hiring of porters, and an adequate supply of good provisions and other necessities. The best times of the year for trekking in the Darjeeling Region are between October and January, and during April and May. For further details and advice, it is best to contact the Government of India, Tourist Information Office, Above Indian Airlines (Now only Indian) , Nehru Road, Darjeeling.

TREK NO. 1 TO PHALUT AND BACK: This round-trek usually takes 8 days, and is one of the most popular, not only because it is short, but also because of the unsurpassable views that are seen of the Kanchenjunga and the Everest Ranges.

The whole trek can be done on foot, but it is also possible to shorten and simplify the trek by going by car to Maneybhanjyang, on the Nepal border. From Maneybhanjyang, one ascends to the Tonglu Dak Bungalow, a distance of 9 miles Tonglu (10,744 feet above sea level, looks directly on Darjeeling and commands a view of the Kanchenjunga Range as well as the whole range of Eastern Sikkim.

The next day’s march brings one to Sandakphu, 14 miles away. In clear weather the view from Sandakphu is never to be forgotten; the majestic beauty of the panorama that unfolds itself to the trekker exceeds anything that is to be seen on the face of the earth, as one gazes at the highest and mightiest mountain range in the world.

The last 12 and a half miles to Phalut are fairly simple, and the view from there is very similar to the one from Sandakphu, except for the setting of the foreground. The return journey is over the same route as the outward march.

TREK NO. 2 TO PAHLUT AND RETURN via JHEPI: Instead of returning from Phalut by the same road, an alternative route back to Darjeeling presents itself along the lower forest clad slopes. The round trips takes 9 days.

Leaving Phalut one drops down by a steep bridle path to the Rammam River 7,958 feet and 7 miles away. Crossing the junction of the Rammam and Khela rivers, the Rammam Forest Bungalow is reached after a two miles march. The valley is particularly beautiful with regard to its forestation, and for the interesting view that is obtained of the Kanchenjunga Range.

The next day’s 12 miles march to the Rimbick Bungalow (7,500 feet) is along a zig-zag road that leaves the forest, dips down to the Siri Khola river, corsses it and re-enters the forest a little before the Bungalow is reached. A good view of Darjeeling is seen, and there is an interesting little Buddhist Monastery a little way from the Bungalow.

The Jhepi bungalow 4, 100 feet is prettily situated near a rivulet whose banks are thickly clothed with wild cardamom: it is 11 miles away a road that gently rises and falls as it winds its way round the mountain side. There is a fairly large and prosperous village nearby.

The last leg of the journey to Darjeeling is via Pul Bazaar. The road drops to 2,195 feet, where it crosses the little Rangneet, and the last 8 miles to Darjeeling entails a steep and steady climb. A Land Rover may be ordered to meet one 4 miles down this road.

TREK NO. 3 PHALUT AND PEMIONGCHI: Proceeding to Phalut via Maneybhanjyang, Tonglu and Sandakphu, one makes a long march of 17 miles to Dentam. The march, though long has few equals in the variety and beauty of the scenery that is met with. Leaving Phalut the road takes a short climb to the Singalila Ridge (12, 200 feet at Singalila Point) along which it travels for 3 miles. The grassy, boulder strewn mountain side, gay with flowers, and with the snows always in view, presents a pretty picture. Plunging downwards for 11 miles the road drops 8,000 feet, passing through a variety of vegetation shortly how cold it is up in Phalut, at the start of the march, it is very warm in Dentam. There is a small bazaar in the neighbourhood.

The climb to Pemiongchi, 6,920 feet, begins with the next day’s trek. The 11 miles march is enlivened by some very beautiful scenery, including scenery, including cascading waterfalls and gorgeous orchids. The full beauty of the Sikkim forests strikes one during the march to Pemiongchi.

Pemionngchi is remarkable for its monastery and different angle at which Kanchenjunga is viewed. The monastery of Sanga Choling is the older and largest in Sikkim and it means “The Sublime Perfect Lotus”. A beautiful view of the surrounding country-side can be obtained from the monastery and it is itself of great interest.

The return journey is via Rimchenpong (6,300 ft), Chakung (5,100 ft) and Badamtam (2,500 ft). The route however, can be shortened by 1 day by making a double march of 20 miles from Chakung direct to Darjeeling via Singla, Barnesbeg and Takvar Tea Estates.

FISHING: The Terai, the District’s lower region provides excellent small and big game shooting. The Teesta group of rivers – the Sevoke, Kalijhora Riyang and Gielle Khola – provide excellent fishing. A note worthy fact is the approachability of all these rivers by car from Darjeeling.