BY experiencing
Mori is easy with your eyes closed. Just breathe in deep the pine-scented air,
and then open your eyes and feast on the sight of the grey river meandering
across the valley. Once you’ve soaked it all in, count your options. You could
give company to the Tons River as it lazily winds its way to the plains. Or
shop for the best rafting deal on the river. Or swim in a deep pool
formed by a laughing creek or bike down a boulevard of yellow mimosas and pine trees.
If nature’s your call, you can’t go too wrong by responding to the lure of the Tons Valley. Legend has it that the Tons was born of the tears of the demoness Surpa- nakha. Some of the angst survives in the treacherous rapids; though from a distance the river looks beguilingly calm, you are advised to test the waters only in the company of experienced guides and life-jackets.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
To get the most out of the valley, put up at an organised campsite on the sandy banks of the Tons River The day begins with a wake-up call from the birds and the surreal sight of the entire valley bathed in the quiet of the first rays of the sun. The day brings options of rafting, cycling, trekking or simply lazing around by the riverside under the shade of the tallest pine tree in Asia. For people who like walking down the historical lane, a visit to the ancient temple built by the Pandavas is a must.
The Tons Valley also boasts of the only Indian temple dedicated to Duryodhana. If you’re not the active type, you could still be persuaded to do the walk to the Lunagad Creek. From the Aquaterra. Adventures Campsite, it’s just 30 minutes away, through forests and Gujjar huts, and at the end of it, there’s a clear blue pool with a small narrow gorge and pine forests and Gujjar huts, and at the end of it, there’s clear blue pool with a small waterfall. Just like in the movies- only, here you can be almost sure there are no prying eyes. Looking up the mountain-side, you can see clouds coming down the valley, interwoven with strands of sunlight… ethereal!
Tons Valley comes with an excitement guaranteed tag for children. They can
attempt rock climbing, rappelling, river rafting. And if you’d rather let them loose
while you would rather laze in the sun, the children can choose from among
cricket and volleyball, nature walks and birdwatching. On the river Rafting or
kayaking down the river is highly recommended. The camps here will arrange this
for you. But be ready for some hard paddling; the crazy rapids do not allow
time to soak in the sights.
Warning Check the boat before you step into it, and make sure there are
lifeboats on board. This stretch of the Tons River is not for unescorted
beginners, so venture in only with the camp. Apart from rafting, the
river also offers anglers its plenty. The Tons is full of trout, but to fish,
permits are required from the DFO’s office at Purola. Let your camp advance if
you plan to fish.
