I had done my research before sign-ing up for a four day and three night cycling tour in Lao Cai province with Lotussia Travel. My friends thought I was mad, cycling around one of the most mountains parts of northern Vietnam. But, the trip is well planned, so you're never on your own. But I didn't tell my friends that – I liked to think they pictured me huff-ing and puffing on my father's rickety old Peugeot up and down the hills under a blazing hot sun.
However, not even riders in the Tour de France go solo – everyone needs a team, and a car, and a medic! My friend and I meet our team from Lotussia Travel at lao Cai station after taking the overnight train from Hanoi.
First things first, we head for a big hearty breakfast. With a long day of rid-ing we need to "feed the engine". Afterwards, we drive to Hai Phong town, 20km from Lao Cai railways station, where we will set off on two wheels.
Our destination from there is Coc Ly, a cycle of 18km or so. The land-scapes are stunning with rolling mountain ranges, wild forests and the yellow Chay River slowly meandering through the valleys below. We stop at Coc Ly market and it's bustling with hill tribes who come from all over the area to buy or sell goods, or simply eat, drink and have fun.
Here you can buy handicrafts or simply hang out and people watch as members of flowers H'mong, Phu La and dao Tuyen hill tribes wander past in colourful costumes. The atmosphere is lively and everyone is smiling. Nearby, I see a photography studio and a dentist's clinic filled with boys and girls – signs of the times we live in.
After an hour exploring the market, we cycle to the nearby village of Sa Koun Ho inhabited by both members of flower h'mong and Black Dao eth-nic minorities. Next we embark on a motor – boat cruise along the Chay river. This is exciting boat cruise winding us through breathtaking, out – of – this – world – scenery where the mountains grow out of the water, presenting us with hidden mysteries, including beautiful caves and grottos. There's an added sense of poignancy as we travel around as I am informed that the market and the area around will be submerged by a manmade lake created for Coc Ly hydroelectricity plain in future.
We disembark at Trung Do village which is home to members of Tay hill tribe. We are picked up by car and then transferred to a local restaurant for lunch. Before you start to accuse us of not cycling very much on our so – calls cycling tour, we hop back into the sad-dle after lunch, and this time we're going up a hill! Our destination is Bac ha town. The road from Coc Ly to Bac Ha is in good shape but the uphill segment is tough going. But we push on, inspired by our awe- inspiring surroundings and the thought of dinner!
We eat at a Tay family's house and after a day of cycling, we devour our dinner. There is nothing more delicious on earth than o hot meal for o hungry soul! Grilled chicken and purple sticky- rice, stir- fried bamboo shoot with buffalo meat, and boiled wild vegetables with a wonderful dipping sause – everything hits the spot.
That night we fall asleep quickly on a mat in the corner of the stilt house after being provided with pillows, a thin blanket and a mosquito net. Not even the grunting of the local buffalos can disturb our sleep!
After breakfast, Lotussia Travel transfers us by car to Si Ma Cai. Upon arrival we start cycling upstream along the banks of the Chay river. The sky above Si ma Cai is clear and blue. With a cool breeze on my face I take a deep breath and bask in the glory of the seemingly endless mountain ranges around.
On the road I can see the roof- tops of hamlets down below in the green and yellow valleys and the terraced fields in harvest season. The landscape is the most beautiful I have seen on my journey so far. Every now and then a young flower Mong woman appears with a beautiful smile that further lights up this bucolic paradise.
Si Ma Cai is not as frequented as Bac Ha or Sa pa, since it is nestled at the far a road near the border with China, but its just 40 kilometres from Bac Ha, and worth the trip.
The town is quiet and beautiful and the people here have a simple daily life. The streets and the market are rather deserted except on Sundays when the market drawn a crowd of Mong, La Chi, Phu La and Nung ethnic minorities in colourful costumes from the surrounding area.
After Si Ma Cai, we cycle to Me village and stop at the village bridge. We cross the river and start the most challenging ride yet – 19km uphill to Pha Long town, where we will have lunch (always a powerful motivating force in my mind). Along the road, we pass more breathtaking mountain peaks and quaint villages. Located 1,200 meters above sea level, Pha Long is a sleeping beauty in a thick green forest shrouded by white mist – it's truly a fairtale setting. After lunch, the cycle is easier as we go downhill for another 19km. We arrive at Muong Khuong in late afternoon and check into a local guest house for the night. The guest house in an isolated town in the back of beyond but it is very clean and comfortable. There's plenty of hot water, too; perfect to soak our tired bones.
The next morning we do our last hard slog – 13km to Cao Son market where we spend about an hour visiting the market, which is much smaller than Coc Ly or bac Ha market, but is very charming with a backdrop of pine trees forests and pretty villages.
Flowers H'mong, Tu Di, Tay, and Giay ethnic minorities come here to buy or sell local products. A stall run by flowers H'mong flogs corn wine and as guests we are treated to some exuber-ant local hospitality! After a tipple or two, head back towards Lao Cai where we will board the train for Ha Noi.
All in all, it's a wonderful way to see the country, and an unforgettable tour that will live long in the memory. And don't be afraid! Even if you're not Lance Armstrong, there is plenty of assistance to make sure you get to the finishing line.
About the Author
Michael Nguyen is a Marketing Manager at Lotussia Travel, a Hanoi-based tour operator offering a selection of multisport vacations such as jungle trekking, mountain hiking, road cycling, motorcycle touring, sea kayaking, scuba diving and more. The company is headquartered in Hanoi with branches in Danang and Ho Chi Minh City. The company sells Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
ecotourism laos_2="ecotourism laos" what kind of information should i have on my ecotourism project?
hi. i am doing my ecotourism project on the country LAOS. and i dont know how to start and what kind of information to include. could someone pelase offer some advice and help to me? thanks
yes to all that, but try to give unbiased view or both sides of the story all good stuff if they are doing well....but dont just go by what is presented on the official sites.
ah the power of a well known search engine :-)
i found these people talking about this very thing last year; http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/thread.jspa?threadID=1340396
Hue city 1 day – Deluxe Group tour building by Asiana Travel Mate-Vietnam tours
OVERVIEW
Hue city 1 day – Deluxe Group tour building by Asiana Travel Mate-Vietnam tours team brings to you a new experience about Hue Monument Complex. Hue was once the Imperial Capital and now listed as a World Heritage site. On the banks of the delightful Perfume River you will find amazing citadels, fabulous palaces and royal tombs. Many of the sites can be reached by river and this makes an excellent way to see the city.
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Hue City Tour
8:00 am - 8:30 am: Our Asiana Travel Mate guide & driver will pick up from your hotel in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam transfer to Toa Kham Boat Station. Take a dragon boat trip on the romantically named Perfume River visits Hue's best-known religious sites, Thien Mu Pagoda.
9:30 am: Continue enjoying dragon boat trip to discover the elaborate tombs of emperors Tu Duc & visit some traditional trade villages to see the way of making Incense and Hue Conical Hat (Non Hue) - the poetic symbol of young ladies of Hue city.
11:30 am: Our driver picks up our group then transfer to Khai Dinh Tomb. Our tour guide gives you a deep understanding about King's philosophy of geomancy and how this affected royal life.
13:00 pm: Have lunch at Local Restaurant.
14:00 pm: In the afternoon, exploring Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945 including Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Nine Dynastic Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, Thai Hoa Palace, and Forbidden Purple City.
16:00 pm: After visiting Citadel, our Community Cyclo Team will transfer you back to hotels. Tour ends.
Vietnam Deluxe Group Set Departure 18 days:
This Deluxe Group Set Departure Tour, 18 day in Vietnam, will bring you the most highlights of Vietnam. With 18 day Driving from Hanoi to Saigon, we travel along Vietnam highway by our deluxe bus through country side and main cities of Vietnam.
The Deluxe group will have maximum 26 people on tour with our English speaking tour leader through-out the trip. The Hotel will base on mostly 4 star hotels and Resorts. Meals are included in the program but some time on your own discovery to locals Interesting restaurants.
Saigon Head Office: 113C Bui Vien Str., Dist. 1. - Phone: +84-8 38 38 6678 Hanoi Tourist Information Center: 7 Dinh Tien Hoang Str. , Hoan Kiem Dist. - Phone: +84-4 39263370 Hue Tourist Information Center: 45 - 47 Le Loi Str., Hue City. - Phone: +84-54 3942 233 Saigon Tourist Information Center: 92-94-96 Nguyen Hue str,, Ho Chi Minh city - Phone: +84-838250615 Truly Halong Center: 21 Luong Ngoc Quyen, Hoan Kiem Hanoi - Phone: +84 4 39263449 Cambodia Office: 117, St 6 Salakanseng, Svay Dangkum, Siem Reap, Cambodia - Phone: + 855 (0) 63 963320 Laos Office: 03/Ban Viengxay-Kithsarath RD, Luang Prabang Province-Lao PDR - Phone: +856-71 260 567
About the Author
Asiana Travel Mate, founded in 2006, provides customized inbound travel into Vietnam, extending to Cambodia and Laos. We believe in delivering services as promised, benefiting local communities and preserving the cultural and natural heritage of Vietnam tours
Mr Hung
Yahoo: dinhhung_84
Skype: tdhung1184
COPY RIGHT: ASIANA TRAVEL MATE please contact us when you use the content.
"Luang Praban" Globetrippin's photos around Luang Prabang, Lao Peoples Dem Rep (ban fa praban)
ban lao hotel luang prabang ban lao hotel luang prabang ban lao hotel luang prabang
Singapore Bintan Tour – Make Your South East Asia Tour Memorable One
With what word shall I describe this beautiful country of South East Asia, Singapore which is endowed with not only scintillating and splendorous attractions, but at the same time tempting history? Welcome to Singapore and enjoy holiday with your family, friends and dear ones in a delightful and memorable way.
Singapore is a beautiful country where fun and entertainment never ends. Here one can enjoy fun-filled water sports in the serene and palm fringed beaches as well as enjoys fun-filled shopping in the bustling markets or enjoy visit to the sightseeing spots or delight in exploring some of the top tourist destinations like Chinatown, Kampong Glam Attractions, Sentosa Island, Outlaying Attractions, Geylang Serai, National Museum, Night Safari, The Singapore Mint Coin Gallery, Hua Song Museum, Philatelic Museum, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, East Coast Park, Fort Canning Park and Marina South City Park. These entire destinations are amazingly beautiful and offer wonderful opportunity to enjoy memorable tour in Singapore and treasure remarkable experince to relish in forever.
Well South East Asia is known for its several astonishing destinations and some of them that include are the famous Thailand the Land of Smiles, Malaysia its Truly Asia, Mauritius the Paradise for Beach Lovers and last but not the least Singapore a wonder in itself. If you are planning to explore much more than Singapore and Bintan you can customize your travel package and enjoy Singapore Thailand Tour, or Singapore Thailand Malaysia tour or Thailand Malaysia tour, Singapore Mauritius tour, etc. All these destinations make a great combinations and offer wonderful opportunity to enjoy holiday in South East Asia in a delightful and memorable way.
In additional if you are very much interested in Singapore Bintan Tour Packages you are making a right choice. Singapore Bintan tour too makes the perfect combination and offer wonderful opportunity to see and explore some of the top places and attractions of these town magnificent destinations.
Some of the top tourism destinations in Singapore and Bintan are listed below:
• Jurong Bird Park • Sentosa Island • Zoological Garden • Night Safari' • Mount Faber Tourist Attractions in Bintan • Bintan Elephant Park • Pasar Oleh Oleh • Tannung Pinang • Banyan Tree Temple • Snake River Temple • Senggarang Chinese Temple • Raja Haji Fisabillah Monument • Trikora Beach Apart from all these there are many other tourism destinations in Singapore and Bintan which are worth to visit and explore. In additional the rich culture and heritage, magnificent nightlife, pleasant climatic conditions, cheerful people, world class accommodation facilities, irresistible cuisines and many other tourism attractions have made Singapore a hot spot and the famous holiday destination in South East Asia.
Come and enjoy intimate hours of lifetime in the magnificent and the marvelous Singapore and treasure remarkable experince to relish in for lifetime. Truly speaking once you visit to this beautiful country you will love to come time and again… That's for sure.
Welcome to Singapore, the land whose charm and beauty will dazzle in front of your eyes forever.
Vietnam Today Travel is an international travel agency based in Hanoi has become the first Vietnamese travel firm to open the representative office in Yangon.
The company is the pioneer in offering online travel service, tour packages and customized holiday to Myanmar. With the lanching of http://www.myanmartravel.com , they also start promoting holidays connecting Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. Their very first target is to provide qualified services for inbound market included: English, French, Spanish and Itilian speaking customers.
Vietnam Today Travel 's mission is to provide our customers with a tour that intimately connects you to the people and culture of Vietnam while providing guides that lead you on a true vacation. From the smallest details to the larger picture, Our company seeks to share the Vietnam that Vietnamese people live, day in, and day out, while making you feel like a special guest, in our home. Tan grow up in a village along the northern coast of Vietnam. As one of the few graduates from his high school to be able to enter college, He moved to Hanoi to pursue his university degrees and eventually his work in the tour industry. He began as a tour guide, for 7 years, learning what visitors value most, and then moved into a tour operator manager position, studying under the best of Vietnam. Finally in 2006 with the supports from some close foreign friends, Tan and his team set up Vietnam Today Travel.
Since 2008, Vietnam Today Travel has launched offices in Siem Riep ( Cambodia), Ho Chi Minh city ( Vietnam) , representative office in America. The 5th office in Yangon enables them to ensure their service quality in Indochina countries.
About the Author
Indochina Expert - living 10 years in Vietnam and Myanmar.
laos_11="laos" If I become a missionary to Laos and start a pro-polygyny Church will I be hunted like an animal?
Hunted like an animal for openly being a Christian? Will it be worse if I become a citizen of Laos or the U.S. ? while living in Laos is the government more brutal to Laos citizens or U.S. citizens?
If you become a missionary who is really and truly spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ, expect to be persecuted for it, and expect to have a rough time no matter where you go or what you do. You will have as many difficulties being a missionary in an inner-city United States ministry as you would in Laos. Hostility from the secular authorities will be more direct and overt in a Communist country such as Laos, but it really will be the same here in the U.S., just masked as something else.
Missionaries are wonderful and brave people, doing the work that the Lord commands we as Christians do. In many cases they actually put their lives on the line for what they believe, and bring the Gospel to those who otherwise would not hear it.
I'm not sure at all what a pro-polgyny church is BTW - be careful here where that's concerned, whatever it is. If it isn't of God, it isn't preaching the Gospel.
You've Decided to Head off to Southern Laos – and then What?
Laos is fast becoming one of the most desirable travel destinations out there. It may be landlocked (meaning no seaside beaches and oceans) but that does not take away the country's charming character. You may have heard by now stories of the ever unwinding ambiance of Laos, how the air is just filled with relaxation and that there never seems to be any worry in the country. With so many stories about the laid back atmosphere, it's got to be true, right? Yes it is. And it is even more so in Southern Laos.
If you need to get away from it all; no technology, no work, no deadlines, no hassles, then you have chosen the right place. But sometimes too much of a good thing can leave you dazzled and somewhat intimidated. The usual questions remain: What to do? Where to go? We are to help answer those so you get a clearer picture of what to expect in Southern Laos.
First, expect some variety. What you get in Southern Laos is warm weather down on the ground, cooler climates up in the hills, ancient Khmer temples, European colonial buildings, verdant flora and fauna and down to earth riverside settlements. The people though are all quite the same, friendly, smiling and like the atmosphere, pretty laid back.
Below we have listed some of the attractions of Southern Laos. This should help answer the earlier set of questions of What to do? Where to go?
Pakse – This is the main hub for Southern Laos. If you need to come down to this region of the country, you'll probably end up here. How long you stay is up to you. It is, after all, the region's largest town, but you can still practically explore the entire place by foot. Pakse is your prototypical sleepy settlement, which introduces you nicely to the area. If you are looking to spend some time here, then suggested stops include Wat Luang, the town's biggest temple housing Buddha's footprint and the vast green rice fields of Ban Keosamphanh.
Wat Phou – If you like temples then Wat Phou is where you need to go. The 11th century Khmer temple sits peacefully amongst the soothing greenery that makes up the area. As with many Khmer structures, its intended purpose was to be a Hindu place of worship. Elements of the religion can be seen today, such as a shrine where a linga is placed. And like other Khmer temples, it eventually became Buddhist. It is quite an experience to arrive at Wat Phou from the river.
Savannakhet – Laos's second largest city with just 120,000 people. If you like the sights of colonial structures mixed in with the local scenery, then this is it, the town is a classic example of what Indochina is all about. This is also your base for nearby eco-tourism treks.
Bolaven Plateau – A highlight of Southern Laos for some. And its 1,000 to 1,350 meter elevation above ground guarantees that the weather will be cooler. A fine relief from the heat and humidity, that's for sure. But other than cooler weather, the place offers breathtaking natural scenes. Some of the country's finest waterfalls are here including the 120 meter drop of Tad Fane (which by the way is Laos's farthest drop) and the equally impressive Tad Lo Falls. This truly is nature at its best. But wait, there's more. The area is renowned for producing some of the country's if not the world's best coffee. Imagine having a nice robust cup and relaxing to the flora. It is an unbelievably soothing experience! And wait, there's even more. A lot of indigenous hilltribes call the plateau home. If you ever are interested in their simple and unchanged way of life, this is the perfect opportunity for it.
Siphandon – Another highlight for many visitors to Southern Laos. This is the best definition of what life is life down here. It is slow paced (even slower than the other places we mentioned before), it is green, it is scenic and it is relaxing. Some sit by the river and let the rhythmic sound of the current clear their minds, some hop onto a hammock and let the soothing environment get to them, others go for a walk, a bike ride or relax with a beverage in hand. Whatever your definition of relaxation is, the place's got it. In fact, Siphandon, when translated means 4000 Islands. Obviously that means there are tons of islets here, but most of them usually appear during the dry season when the water level subsides. So, which islands to go to?
Don Det – Perhaps the most developed island of the bunch, with installed electricity poles and wires, ensuring 24 hour electricity. None of this was available ten or even five years ago. That being said, you're still in for a relaxing time. If you want, take a boat tour and catch glimpses of dolphins, perhaps even the rare Irrawaddy.
Don Khon – A little more up market, larger and even quieter than Don Det. A nice set of waterfalls are located here. Remnants of colonial France are present such as buildings, the rail tracks and an old train. There are great waterfalls here, with Jacuzzi-like pools.
Don Khong – The largest of the islands, perhaps best known for its vast rice fields. If you are looking for a good cycle, this is probably your best bet, with its unbeatable scenery and humble villages scattered throughout.
So, there you have it, the complete lowdown of Southern Laos. If you're thinking it then you're right, why not go to most, if not all of these places? You can base your exploration of the area with our Blend of Calm in Southern Laos tour or our 4000 Island program.
Exotissimo Travel globally markets a curated collection of tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan. Each of our unique tours evoke a sense of belonging and oneness by immersing guests with the culture and experiencing their genuine hospitality. Experts in Asia - in Asia.
guest house in luang prabang="guest house in luang prabang"
North laos discovery tour
Day 1 : ARRIVAL - VIENTIANE (-/-/-) Meet on arrival, you are welcome to Vientiane, the city of the moon - an ancient city, situated on the bend on the left bank of the Mekong as the largest city and the capital of Laos. Transfer to hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, we take a sightseeing tour of Vientiane, to visit religious museums of Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple to have been survived from the Siamese war of 1828 and its cloister contains more than 8000 Buddha statues; Wat Ho Prakeo, the former home-temple of the Emerald Buddha statue or Pra Keo, but today it contains a collection of Buddha statues, antiques and all artifacts found in around Vientiane; That Luang Stupa, the single most important monument in Laos, which was built to cover the original small stupa containing a piece of the chest bone of Buddha; Patouxay (Arch de Triumph), built quite recently in commemoration of those who died during the wars in the past and it is today as the land-mark of Vientiane. Meals: None. Accommodation: Hotel. Transport: Private air-conditioned.
Day 2 : VIENTIANE - LUANG NAM THA After breakfast, transfer to Wattay airport for departure by QV flight to Luang Nathan, a land of rugged mountains, pristine forests, and rich river plains with over 20 ethnic groups, make it the most ethnically diverse province in Laos. Upon arrival at Luang Nathan airport, our guide will accompany you to your guest house. P.M visit Luang Nathan provincial museum, drive outskirt of town to visit Ban Nam Leu, a small village of Lane Tane hill tribe and also visit Ban Thongchai Neua, a silk-weaving village of Tai Dam. Meals: B. Accommodation: Guest house. Transport: Private air-conditioned, airplane.
Day 3 : LUANG NAM THA - MUANGSING Following breakfast, we head north by car about 2-3hrs to Muangsing, a small town near Laos-China border where there are more hill tribes to be seen. There are lots of interesting villages of various ethnic groups such as Hmong, Aka…that we may visit. Check in at a good guest house and enjoy our lunch at local restaurant. Afternoon, we continue to drive to near China border area and visit villages of Ikor or Aka ethnic group as well as a village of Yao hill tribe where you will learn more traditional way of rural life with their fascinating culture of these people. Dinner is at a local restaurant or guest house. Meals: B, L, D. Accommodation: Guest house. Transport: Private air-conditioned.
Day 4 : MUANG SING - XIENGKOK - MUANGSING After early breakfast, it will be another highlight day to take a drive about 2-3 hrs to visit villages of various types of Aka hill tribe on the way to Xiengkok, a small village for the check point on the Mekong to Burma It's quite easy to see lots of ethnic Aka people, walking along the road. Arrive Xiengkok village, where we will have lunch at local restaurant and take a view of Burma on the other side of the Mekong river. Return to Muangsing in late afternoon and the rest of the day is spent free at leisure. Dinner is at local restaurant. Meals: B, L, D.
Day 5 : MUANGSING - OUDOMXAY Early morning visit Muangsing morning market, where there are lots of Aka people, who bring their forestry products to sell and also buy their necessary goods back home. Breakfast at local restaurant, it's time to say good buy to Muangsing, and drive back to Luang Namtha and continue about 4 hours drive to Oudomxay, a good stop off point N or S surrounded by hills, linking China, Vietnam, Luang Prabang and Pakbeng, even it was razed during the war. There are also more villages of ethnic groups such as Hmong, Khmu that we may stop and visit along the way. There are a few good local restaurants where we can take a good simply lunch along the way. Arrive in Oudomxay, check in at a good guest house and relax after a long day drive. Dinner is also at local restaurant. Meals: B, L. Accommodation: Guest house. Transport: Private air-conditioned.
Day 6 : OUDOMXAY - PAK OU - LUANG PRABANG After breakfast, it is also interesting visit the morning market in town, where some Hmong hill tribe people come to sell and buy things there, before we head south by car about 4 hours to Luang Prabang, the ancient first capital of Lane Xang kingdom, the center of religious life in Laos and today the World Heritage City. We also stop to relax and take our lunch at local restaurant. We en route stop to at Ban Pak Ou, a village opposite of Pak Ou cave in the side of a lime stone cliff and opposite of the mouth of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers. The sanctuaries at Pak Ou consist of two large caves, both repositories for thousands of Buddha images, which range from mere centimeter to two meters in height. We cross the Mekong by small ferry boat to visit Pak Ou cave, and we cross back to Ban Pak Ou to continue our way to Luang Prabang. This afternoon is spent free for own experience of this charming town with kind people. Meals: B, L. Accommodation: Hotel. Transport: Private air-conditioned.
Day 7 : LUANG PRABANG Breakfast at hotel, we take a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of temples, of which nearly fifty still remain in the town and surrounding areas. visit the National Museum, the former Royal Palace which houses the collection of valuables including the famous Prabang Buddha statue, gifts received from foreign dignitaries…etc…; Visit Wat Visoun, the 16th century temple served as a small museum for religious artifacts; Wat Aham, the early 19th century temple, whose two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from the Ramayana - Hanuman, the Monkey God and a fierce Yaksa; drive outskirts of town to visit Ban Xangkhong, the well-known village for its wood papers and also Lao silk weavings with natural dyes. In the afternoon, we continue to visit Wat Xiengthong, the 16th century temple, which more than any temples in Luang Prabang, epitomizes all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture, Hmong market in town, where some of Hmong ladies still show their skilled embroidery works, climb Phousi Hill, the 328 steps leads to the summit of Phousi Hill that dominates the sky-line of Luang Prabang overlooking the finest panoramic view in the whole Luang Prabang and watch sunset over the hill at Wat Phabat Tai on the bank of the Mekong river. Meals: B. Accommodation: Hotel. Transport: Private air-conditioned.
Day 8 : LUANG PRABANG - KUANGSI WATERFALL A morning breakfast, we take a drive (30 km South) to visit Kuangsi Waterfall, which, though not very high, is spectacular and really beautiful with its green surroundings as the preserved National park. We stop en-route, stop to visit a fresh produced market namely Talad Phosy, where most of your food come from and also visit Ban Na Oune, a small village of Hmong hill-tribe group. Just before arriving at Kuangsi waterfall, there is another village of Khmu minority group, Ban Tha Pane that we may visit. Our picnic lunch is served at the shady park nearby Kuangsi waterfall. There is plenty of time for relaxing and a swim in cool water, before we head back to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is spent free for independent exploration on this ancient town. Meals: B/L. Transport: Private air conditioned. Accommodation: Hotel
Day 9 : LUANG PRABANG - DEPARTURE After breakfast, we spent a free morning for last chance to shop and visit local sights by own, before we say good bye to Luang Prabang. Transfer to Luang Prabang airport for departure to next destination. Meals: B. Transport: Private air conditioned.
Vietnam Paradise Travel is one of outstanding Vietnam travel companies that offer specialized Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar tours to their customers. They are experts with the places in Vietnam Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar and know the places well and hence can get your Voyage au Vietnam Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar planned in an effortless and easy manner. The website has numerous offers in the form of best sellers that are available for the customers to choose from. Whether it is the Travel Essential Vietnam 14 days trip or the L'Indochine à découvert 16 jours trip or Discovery Travel Vietnam 12 days trip, you can enjoy your Voyage Vietnam Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar and feel one with the picturesque place.
Vietnam Paradise Voyage through its numerous trips helps the tourist get an authentic experience of the place and a close encounter too with the Indochina border. You may discover all the major attractions the place has to offer and also tread on the paths where very few people have set foot. If you are more of an adventure lover, you could try any of the programs that are listed under the new circuits. For instance, you could be a part of the authentic travel and travel towards discovering the actual face of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. These authentic encounters in the place will truly fill you with immense satisfaction and adventure too. On your Voyage au Vietnam you may touch upon the Halong Bay, Mekong delta, Luang Prabang, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, Saigon, Hoi An, Muine, Da Lat and many more.
Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar are also favorite eco-tourism destination and you can go on Vietnam eco-tours and enjoy your favorite time in pure nature. As Voyage Vietnam calls for careful planning of the itinerary as you will have to cover the entire place without leaving any remarkable place of interest, you could allow the experts in the field do it for you.
Spending time amidst the picturesque settings of the Halong Bay is indeed a true idea of relaxing after working in hectic schedules and leading a busy monotonous life. Voyage au Vietnam offers the perfect getaway and the expert tourist planners that are available will plan your holiday in such a way that you will not have missed out on anything at the place.
Hanoi, Sapa, Mekong delta, Luang Prabang, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Phu Quoc and Chau Doc are some of the favorite destinations in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar that you should not miss for the kind of pleasure they have in store for the tourists. Get your bookings done well in advance through Voyage Vietnam providers at Vietnam Paradise Voyage so that you can enjoy your holiday and take back wonderful memories of the same.
luang prabang travel_3="luang prabang travel" Feasible to Backpack Southeast Asia in 2 months?
I currently trying to plan on backpacking around southeast asia. I was just wondering if it's possible to see the highlights of each city within 2 months.
I planning on flying into Bangkok. Then I"m head to Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) --> Saigon --> Hanoi --> Luang Prabang --> Chiang Mai --> Bangkok --> Phuket --> Kuala Lumpur --> Singapore --> Bali.
My budget is approximately around 4k including airfare roundtrip from the states. Also, I"m planning on traveling from June to August.
I think the among is enough just for airfare. Nothing much else left for food, lodgings, local transport. Your trip in between Asian cities would take about 7000 km.
Laos Luang Prabang Travel Airlines Hotel Disney Inn
travelling in laos_4="travelling in laos" I am hoping to travel to Thailand,Laos,Vietnam in the next year. What should I do first for visas?
Has anyone travelled to any of these countries and has any tips on the first steps to getting visas so I can travel around for a few months before I head to Oz / NZ..? Any hints and tips gratefully received. Thanks!
You just get the visas for Thailand and Laos when you enter those countries, no need to arrange in advance as you are a British citizen. However, you need to sort the Vietnam visa before you get there - there are "travel agents" in most places that can arrange this but probably best to do it before you leave UK or somewhere like Bangkok.
The Thai visa is 30 days and you can renew by quickly leaving the country for a few hours, we popped over to Myanmar and back and had another month in Thailand.
Travelling through Laos: Floods in Vian Vieng
travelling in laos travelling in laos travelling in laos
laos holidays_5="laos holidays" Geography Homework Help...SE Asia Holidays..?
Hello, I need help on my homework... If you could please find me a list, and a definition of each of the following: Vietnam January holiday Indonesia March holiday Laos April holiday Malaysia May holiday Myanmar June holiday Philippines July holiday Singapore September holiday Thailand October holiday
I would really love help on this, I am bad at the other countries information. If you would, please give me the holiday's name, and a brief description of it, and how it is celebrated. Also the date it is celebrated on. I will give anyone who helps a thumb's up. Thanks soooo much, I really appreciate it!
Here websites for each one that you listed. Just go to each one and it has holidays listed for them! =]
From Magical Monasteries, Unique Customs and Mystical Cruises, Explore Luang Prabang in Style
The magic, the glamour, the beauty, the flair and the elegance of Luang Prabang demands one thing from you; that you travel this UNESCO Heritage Town in style. Located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, this 700 year old city that resembles more of a town is strikingly well-preserved and demands your attention. There's a reason why it is considered the country's spiritual capital. And you will find out via a stylish and experiential trip.
The authentic Laos experience starts right away. Even before the arrival of Buddhism, citizens participated in an ancient tradition called the Baci ceremony. This ritual is of Animist origin and like most aspects of that belief got integrated into Buddhism. Important events like births, marriages ordination into monkhood, departing, returning and others all warrants a Baci ceremony, including your visit to Luang Prabang!
Next up is Lao culture at its most graceful. And you will certainly agree after watching the beautiful movements of Lao traditional performances such as the Lao Ramayana epic, local folk dances and tribal shows at the Royal Ballet Theater. Then it's time to savor those tempting Lao flavors at L'Elephant, one of the town's top restaurants.
Visit Luang Prabang's top attraction, Wat Xieng Thong. This temple, situated along the banks of the Mekong is the town's oldest at 461 years old. Glittering gold designs embedded onto a dark and burnished background as well as columns featuring a rich lacquer-like black with gold stenciling should catch anybody's attention. Haw Kham, the former Royal Palace turned museum includes lots of fascinating relics that you should take a look at. Wat Sen and numerous other temples also await your arrival. And here's where your tour becomes stylish; you can elect to experience the town via electric bike. Faster than a traditional bicycle but without the fumes that come with it, this is a fast, fun and easy way to explore Luang Prabang.
As majestic as the town itself, Kuang Si Falls warrants your visit. Its blue pools, splashing rapids, verdant fauna and relaxing atmosphere may make leaving the area difficult. If you want to continue with the water scenery, then Pak Ou Caves is where you need to go. The caverns, set along the banks of the Mekong are mystically filled with Buddha statues, ranging in size from the palm of your hand to your actual height. End the day as you embark on a fabulous river cruise aboard the Nava Mekong riverboat with a gourmet Lao dinner served onboard.
For early risers, observe or join the local residents along the streets to offer alms to the monks. This is the perfect opportunity to see one of Luang Prabang's highlights, long lines of orange robed monks during their early morning ritual.
From magical monasteries to mystical cruises on the Mekong, this truly is Luang Prabang in Style. Can't get enough? More exhilarating travel awaits as you explore the country via our Laos tours page.
Exotissimo Travel globally markets a curated collection of tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan. Each of our unique tours evoke a sense of belonging and oneness by immersing guests with the culture and experiencing their genuine hospitality. Experts in Asia - in Asia.
Best Photos near Luang Prabang, Laos - Incl. Kuang Si Waterfalls, Monks On The Mekong, Lanterns
accommodation in laos_6="accommodation in laos" How much spending money is needed for 17 nights in Thailand, Laos & Cambodia?
I'm planning on going on a Contiki tour through Thailand, Laos and Cambodia in December and I'm trying to budget for spending money. All accommodation, flights, transfers, breakfasts, and activities will already be paid for. Basically, I'll need spending money for meals, drinks, a few souvenirs, bit of shopping etc. Answers in AUD would be helpful. Thanks!!
This question comes up often on many travel forums - there is no one answer!! Not everyone spends money the same way. Backpackers staying in cheap $10 dives often have to also get by all day with $10 spending! Likewise those rich tourists staying in posh digs spend quite a bit more of course.
Here is a couple rough guides you can consider.
1. Have available at a minimum the same amount you are spending on your hotel on holiday.
2. Have available the same amount of money that you would need for a holiday vacation in an big city in your own country far from where you live.
Keep in mind that if you bring extra AU dollars and do not use them nothing is really lost. In Thailand it is easy to use ATM's for more cash from a debit card. If you do use a debit (or credit) card there is a 150 baht fee to withdraw baht so take out the maximum and change leftover Thai money at the airport when you leave. Don't leave Laos and Cambodia with their currency because no one wants it! (You must notify your bank that you will be using a debit or credit card overseas before you leave on your trip! Otherwise any sudden withdrawal overseas may be suspected of fraud!)
Your question is frequently asked on this forum: http://www.tripadvisor.com/SearchForums?scope=2&ff=3686&geo=293915&q=how+much+spending+money&sub-search.x=0&sub-search.y=0&sub-search=Click+to+search+forums&returnTo=__2F__ You can use this same forum for Cambodia and Laos.
"Luang Prabang" Ashley_and_erik's photos around Luang Prabang, Lao Peoples Dem Rep
accommodation in laos accommodation in laos accommodation in laos
Northern Laos and a Bike: A Wonderful Adventure through an Area Lost in Today's Modern World
If you're looking for prime biking territory, then look no further than Northern Laos. Why? You're looking at one of the least visited countries out there. The way of life has remained quite independent from the modernism that goes on in the world today. The laid back lifestyle regins supreme here! Secondly, the northern parts of the country features superb hills, mountains, forests, ethnic villages and is even less explored by visitors. Discover, experience and adventure; these are the themes of your biking trip in Northern Laos.
What a way to start. After your cultural endeavor in Luang Prabang, grab your bike and pedal your way to pure Laotian countryside. Cycle along mountain roads, alternating up steep climbs with breezy descents all the while soaking in the beautiful scenery and fresh air. Sure is prime biking territory, isn't it? Reach Oudoxmay and swell in the atmosphere that only the Nam Beng River can.
Your journey to Luang Nam Tha is a marvelous one. Enjoy the long, spectacular route along undulating ridge roads with great views and excellent downhills to enjoy. Spot a village here and there in the lush jungles and meet the friendly folk. Arrive at Muang Sing and rest those legs amidst ethnic villages and rice fields.
The winding road from Luang Nam Tha to Muang Sing provides parallel views of several rivers, serving as a unique but still striking background for your adventure. You'll also cross them at various points along the way. Other interesting sites you'll pass through include beautiful monsoon forests and hilltribe settlements such as the Akha, Hmong and Mien. This evening in Muang Sing, enjoy the tranquility and laidback pace of life that is common in these parts.
Awake early to visit Muang Sing's local market. Join the vendors, most of whom come from the ethnic minority villages in the area as they buy and sell fresh fruit, meats, and dry goods. There isn't a better way to experience the local lifestyle and ambiance than this. This should fuel the energy needed for your last leg of the trip to Xieng Kok, a small and simple town with wooden houses and bamboo shacks. On this peaceful stretch of road, the biggest hazards you are likely to see on the road are the cows and chickens who roam freely around the area!
You deserve a rest. And why not? You've just cycled about 250 kilometers around Northern Laos. A boat ride along the Mekong will surely ease those tiring muscles. Travel past the riverside villages and fisherman before reaching the border town of Huay Xai and the end of your journey through magnificent Northern Laos.
Laos and adventure. A truly winning combination. You'll truly experience and discover, as you wander untouched and unexplored lands, whilst pumping that adrenaline on your high octane venture.
Established in 1993, Exotissimo Travel is a well known Tour Operator in Asia. We have the expertise and connections to create your perfect inspirational tours as well as customized programs in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan at the best possible price. Your experience guarantees stops to the main sites as well as the hidden spots, giving you a true sense of the culture and rewarding you with unforgettable memories.
province in laos_6="province in laos" Is there really a province or city in Laos named Champasack?
I was just wondering because I'm Laostion and my last name includes "champasack" (with a double s) and I really don't believe that a province or city could be named after my family...?
Yes. It is a province in southwest Laos, and its' capital is of the same name.
Chances are, your family used the name Champasak as their surname when they immigrated to other countries to preserve their heritage - which is common among Asians.
Flood hits Borikhamxay province
province in laos province in laos province in laos
things to do in laos_2="things to do in laos" Is Obama and his policies a good reason?
to exercise your Second Amendment rights to firearm ownership? If he fires someone for voicing their dissatisfaction with Obama's handling of the war, what do you think Obama would do to private citizens who resist his socialist policies?
Take a look at all the other communist/totalitarian countries in the world. Take Cuba for example. Castro imprisoned and killed many political enemies. Same thing in the Soviet Union, China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia... It isn't just communist countries either. Look at Nazi Germany. They killed off political enemies too.
That's what the Founding Fathers warned us against, and gave us the right to firearms ownership for. To protect ourselves from tyrannical governments. I don't think there's ever been a more important time to own firearms.
Amazing.
So you think that the proper way to run a military is to permit all officers to be as insubordinate as they wish, and that any attempt to control insubordination amounts to "totalitarianism" or "Nazism."
Just wondering: If one of General Patton's officers in World War II had published derogatory remarks about him, what do you think would have happened? Probably something a lot worse than firing.
"What to do with an inner tube and a happy shake" Technotrekker's photos around Vang Viene
things to do in laos things to do in laos things to do in laos
Just like James Bond 30 or so Years Ago, you too can Enjoy the Beauty of Thailand
Slap in a DVD, sit back, kick your legs up and relax, you've earned your downtime. Just keep an eye out for Thailand, the country may very well be a part of the film you are watching, whether you may know it or not. One such film is James Bond: The Man with the Golden Gun. There are a good number of scenes and references to the Kingdom.
Perhaphs no film in the 1970's put Thailand on the map more than this film. James Bond (played by Roger Moore) attended a boxing match at Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium in Bangkok. The island that houses the solar panels is actually called Koh Tapu, meaning nail island but called James Bond Island through tourist literature and has now become common usage. The hideout of Scaramanga (played by Christopher Lee) is also here. Koh Tapu island is actually part of a pair called Ko Khao Phing Kan which in turn is part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park. The islands are now major draws in the area.
First, let's start in the capital. Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium is one of Bangkok's main Muay Thai arenas, the other being Lumpini Boxing Stadium. Ratchadamnoen, some may argue is the most prestigious of the two as champions from that arena are held in higher regard than the latter. Contests are held every Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, starting at around 6.30pm. Go ahead, knock yourself out. You could very well get ringside seats to the matches.
Phang Nga Bay hosts those beautiful limestone islands in the film. The province faces the Andaman Sea and hosts an impressive collection of islands and islets. Before the filming of the movie in 1974, Koh Tapu was a rarely visited indigenous area. After the movie, it is now one of the most visited. And it is easy to see why. Most of the island is covered with deciduous and evergreen trees. In addition, the waters in the area is home to an abundance of marine life, including 24 species of fish, 14 species of shrimp, 15 species of crabs and 16 species of manta rays and sharks. Bask it all in with our highly acclaimed Camping and Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay tour. If you're looking for beauty and adventure (a fine combination, isn't it?) this is your ticket to a wonderful and unforgettable journey, designed to suit all fitness levels and perfect for friends or families.
Your experience doesn't need to stop at these destinations. See our Thailand tours page for more inspirations.
Exotissimo Travel globally markets a curated collection of tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan. Each of our unique tours evoke a sense of belonging and oneness by immersing guests with the culture and experiencing their genuine hospitality. Experts in Asia - in Asia.
Established in 1993, Exotissimo Travel is a well known Tour Operator in Asia. We have the expertise and connections to create your perfect inspirational tours as well as customized programs in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan at the best possible price. Your experience guarantees stops to the main sites as well as the hidden spots, giving you a true sense of the culture and rewarding you with unforgettable memories.
Laos 0-1 Thailand
thailand to laos thailand to laos thailand to laos
Upon arrival, have your first meal on the island at the Koh Chang Grand Orchid Restaurant in Klong Son village. It is under the resort of the same name and offers Thai, international, and seafood cuisine.
Ton Sai Restaurant is set on top of a banyan tree, thus the name. It is located at White Sand Beachand serves fusion food.
Relax after dinner by sitting back at the nearby Sabay Bar. The bar is lively with the music from a Filipino band and fire-twirling shows by skillful performers.
Blues Cha Cha bar set along the main road at Kae Bae just across The Chill is a place to wine and unwind. Live bands plays nightly and firehouses play to the tune that fire up the atmosphere of a lively evening.
If you are looking for a 5-star environment Breezes bar at the Amari Resort would be your best pick.
Featuring a trendy decor the cozy bar plays live music 6 days a week and offers a wide selection of cocktails, beers and wines as you would expect from a 5-star hotel.
If you are a bit tired there is the sofa bed for you to stretch out. Patrons can also choose to relax at the outdoor quiet lounge facing the sea.
The White Sand Beach Restaurant is located right on the beach where guests can bask in the gentle sunshine or relax under the starry sky while dining.
The restaurant serves Thai and European menus, as well as dishes individually prepared by the chef.
Alina Restaurant, Ban Thai Restaurant and Banpu Koh Chang Restaurant are in-house restaurants for resorts of the same names on White Sand Beach.
It is an added advantage for the guests of the said resorts since these restaurants which serve seafood, Thai and international favorites are only a step away from their accommodations.
If dining under the starry sky is your current leisure pursuit, then Cookies Restaurant is the place to visit. For those seeking a Swedish dining experience, Heli's Kitchen is definitely the right choice.
Pizza lovers should be delighted to know that there are at least three pizza places on the island. If you prefer a fine dining ambience with candle-lit tables, try Invito Italian Restaurant. Pizza Ban Nuna is, meanwhile, down to earth.
Sassi, at the Amari Emerald Cove Resort, is famous for its traditional Italian cuisine. Its bright and vibrant atmosphere is cosy yet lively. The restaurant's air conditioned indoor ambience complements the fine tastes of Italy.Outdoor servings are available if you prefer the natural air supply.
Just one level below is the Just Thai restaurant stylishly designed with contemporary Thai decor. Expect the more innovative Thai delicacies and fresh seafood. The restaurant turns a bit Japanese with an additional 5-course dinner menu every Mondays and Thursdays. Outdoor seatings are available here too.
The Cove Terrace boasts of an all-day a la carte menu in a bright, airy setting. Check out the special theme buffet available on some evenings. Exclusive romantic sunset dining right on the beach can be arranged.
Buffalo Bill Steak House on White Sand Beach serves one of the best steaks on the island . The wild west steak house has a very relaxed ambience and a friendly staff Here, the portions are American size but not the prices.
The Milky Bar on White Sand Beach is an ideal place for those who want to spend the night singing to the tune of music.
The Terrace Restaurant in the premise of the Chang Buri Resort and Spa on White Sand Beach is on a hillside terrace where diners can enjoy food in a natural environment. The restaurant prepares both Thai and European cuisines.
The resort's Beach Bar Restaurant is perfect if you prefer to dine by the beach, where the menu is similar to that of the Terrace Restaurant.
For fine dining experience amongst the vegetation of a rainforest overlooking the sea go to Saffron On The Sea. This boutique restaurant offers Thai & Western delicacies in the open space with a good view of the mountain and the sunset.
For a change in scenery, schedule a breakfast or lunch date at The Cinnamon Restaurant, at the Aana Resort on Klong Prao Beach. The restaurant is located along the river, and now provides free Wi-Fi connection for its patrons.
If a light meal is all you need at the moment, then visit The Hill Bar at the same resort. Before heading down to dinner, drop by at the same bar for a sunset aperitif.
For a more relaxed dining experience, get down to Aana's The Beach Bar for street food, drinks and cocktails.
Imagine dining in a tropical garden setting with the sound of the lapping waves of the nearby sea. Remark Cottage Restaurant at the Klong Prao Beach makes that experience possible, plus letting you enjoy a wide variety of seafood.
A health-conscious vacation is now possible at the Boutique Restaurant where they serve health and vegetarian foods.
Just inside the Chai Chet Resort is the Chai Chet Seafood which serves the best in seafood cuisine to its in-resort patrons. However, they will also be happy to welcome anyone who'll come visit them.
Enjoy a homey, cozy atmosphere while dining at the K.B. Restaurant that serves local favorites, fresh seafood, and international food.
Let Siam Beach Restaurant's chef prepare for you only the best Thai food a la carte and discover what it is like to experience the so-called dinner in paradise.
The Bay Restaurant at the Dusit Princess Koh Chang has a delightful selections of seafood and international cuisine. Modern decor in bright colours with a view of the Bai Lan Bay will further enhance your appetite.
The fishermen's village in Bang Bao is the place to go to for the best seafood. Here you can expect the freshest catch of
the day, at famous restaurants. One of the most reputable seafood restaurant here is the Ruan Thai Restaurant. Set above the sea the restaurant is famed for its fresh seafood prepared the local way at reasonable prices.
For a romantic culinary adventure try the Tantra Restaurant at the Nirvana Resort in Bang Bao where contemporary European and Thai cuisine are prepared by their renowned chef. An innovative promotion called the Nirvana Twilight Nights include a breathtaking view of the sunset amid soothing beats and refreshing cocktails, an illuminated jungle walk and a 3-course dinner at the restaurant set on stilts overlooking the fishing village and the calm sea. Fine wines and an extensive drinks menu add to the delight.
On the eastern coast, a vegetarian outlet--Spa Koh Chang Restaurant--is fast becoming popular among travelers. Its "Food for Health" slogan makes it a distinct choice for health-conscious diners.
Salakphet Seafood Restaurant is built above the waters, giving the place a relaxing ambience and a feel of being part of the fishing community.
Watering holes, or beer bars, can be easily found on every beach on the island.
Other than Koh Chang, most resorts on other islands include meals in their packages. Nevertheless, some restaurants such as the Makathanee Restaurant on Koh Maak also serve a la carte menus. The place which is under the resort of the same name serves seafood, local and international favorites.
Get a feeling of the island by dining at the Shantaa Restaurant on Shantaa Koh Kood. It is where local favorites are enhanced with the cooking secrets of local chefs.
But just before heading down to the restaurant, take a detour to the resort's Shantaa Beach Bar for your favorite drinks and snacks.
You can find more information in Koh Chang at http://www.koh-chang.com
About the Author
I'm Web Master and Web Marketing of , Koh-chang.com and Kohchangholiday.com - Online reservation services for hotels and resorts in Koh Chang, Koh Kood, Koh Mak, Trat - Thailand.
Adventure & Knowledge are your Companions as you Embark on an Akha Experience in Northern Laos
By now you must've heard about the various hilltribes that live across the hills (hence their name) in Southeast Asia. And sometimes, they make you wonder, how do they live without the modern conveniences that we practically need? You also can't help but marvel at their skills; they do make bright, interesting and eye-pleasing clothes. You know what, you too can be a part of the hilltribes. The indigenous people in question are the Akha, and the destination is Northern Laos. The theme is an adventure trek with insider knowledge to their lifestyles and culture.
The scenery up here in is stupendous! Forested hills, green jungles, rivers, tropical animals; this is the environment you'll be hiking through for the next three days. Your Laos tour begins in Muang Sing near the Chinese border in northwestern Laos. This is a melting pot of many hill tribes; the Hmong, Thai Lu, Thai Neua, Yunnanese and of course the Akha gather at the local market here to sell their wares and goods. There are also great treks in the area, making it an obvious starting point for your adventure.
The first leg will take you to Nam Keo Noi Waterfall, a beautiful site where gracious Akha villagers are waiting your arrival with a traditional lunch. Continue on to Ban Lao Khao Village and spend the evening embracing Akha music and observing the courting rituals of the tribe's youth, among other unique Akha cultural activities. A traditional massage soothes those tiring legs.
Feeling like one of them yet? Head on over to more villages including Ban Phou Yae, Ban Houeinagang and Ban Eu La and continue with your cross-cultural integration with these friendly and welcoming people. As much as you are intrigued by their culture and lifestyle, they themselves are intrigued by yours. Spend some time sharing your experiences and your life stories. Show them pictures of your family and friends. In the meantime, get to know them a little bit more by engaging in their daily activities such as cotton spinning, buffalo riding and rice pounding. Your meals will be in their gracious company.
Loving the experience so far? The third day pretty much follows the same pattern, but to different parts of the region and visits to different Akha villages. You'll continue seeing the lush Lao scenery, unique wildlife and friendly villagers at work in the fields. There's even a hilltop viewing of Muang Sing in it for you. Recap your Akha Experience with a visit to the hilltribe museum. So, are the facts given in the museum true compared to the experiences you just encountered with the Akha?
Check out Laos! The country is slowly making its way onto many travelers' holidaying wish list. Come to the country while it's still hot!
Exotissimo Travel globally markets a curated collection of tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan. Each of our unique tours evoke a sense of belonging and oneness by immersing guests with the culture and experiencing their genuine hospitality. Experts in Asia - in Asia.
Postcards from Laos, A tour of Vientiane's Buddha Park
A system is a group of parts that interact through one or more processes (Odum 1983). The term ecosystem was introduced and defined by Tansley (1935), who as “a fundamental organizational unit of the natural world that includes both organisms and their spatial environment.” Ecosystems have since been defined in various ways, and at different spatial and temporal scales (Golley 1993; O'Neill et al. 1986; Evans 1956). Some ecologists define ecosystems on the basis of biotic organisms, populations, or communities. For example, Hutchinson (1978) considered the ecosystem to be the environmental context in which population or community dynamics occur. Others define ecosystems in terms of their abiotic characteristics and processes (Rowe and Barnes 1994). For example, Lindeman (1942) defined ecosystems as “...the system composed of physical, chemical, and biological processes active within a space/time unit.” Regardless of whether the emphasis is on biotic components or abiotic characteristics and processes of ecosystems, both remain integral to the concept of ecosystem. Rowe (1961) emphasized this when he defined ecosystems as “...a three dimensional segment of the earth where life forms and the environment interact.”
Wetland ecosystems have been defined in a variety of ways by researchers, resource managers, and regulatory authorities, depending on their specific needs and objectives (Mitsch and Gosselink 1993). In the applied world of regulation, planning, and management, wetlands are usually defined in terms of their physical, chemical, and biological characteristics such as hydrologic regime, soil type, and plant species composition. For example, in classifying wetlands for mapping, inventory, and other purposes, Cowardin et al. (1979) defined wetlands as “...lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface or the land is covered by shallow water...” that are characterized by the presence of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and surface water during the growing season.
Wetlands are often biodiversity ‘hotspots’ (Reid et al., 2005), as well as functioning as filters for pollutants from both point and non-point sources, and being important for carbon sequestration and emissions (Finlayson et al., 2005). The value of the world’s wetlands are increasingly receiving due attention as they contribute to a healthy environment in many ways. Wetland functions are defined as the normal or characteristic activities that take place in wetland ecosystems or simply the things that wetlands do. Wetlands perform a wide variety of functions in a hierarchy from simple to complex as a result of their physical, chemical, and biological attributes. For example, the reduction of nitrate to gaseous nitrogen is a relatively simple function performed by wetlands when aerobic and anaerobic conditions exist in the presence of denitrifying bacteria. Nitrogen cycling and nutrient cycling represent increasingly more complex wetland functions that involve a greater number of structural components and processes. At the highest level of this hierarchy is the maintenance of ecological integrity, the function that encompasses all of the structural components and processes in a wetland ecosystem. Wetlands are one of the most productive of all ecosystems, and carry out critical regulatory functions of hydrological processes within watersheds (Banner et al. 1988). Regulating water quality, water levels, flooding regimes, and nutrient and sedimentation levels are a few of these processes (Gregory et al. 1991). As with any natural habitat, wetlands are important in supporting species diversity and have a complex of wetland values. Moreover, the pattern of seasonal variation of the wetland affects the bird population fluctuation (Imran. A. D and Mithas. A. D 2009). Even small wetlands are extremely important to the conservation of biodiversity because they provide critical breeding habitat where dispersed populations can exchange genetic material, reducing the risks of extinction (Semlitsch and Brodie 1998).
The present review is aimed at providing in a nutshell, the distribution of wetlands, the value of Wetlands, the causes and consequences of the loss of wetlands and their conservation status with special reference to India.
2. Distribution of wetlands in India
In India a total area of 40494 km2 is classified as wetlands. This consists only 1.21 per cent of the total land surface. Most of the wetlands in India are directly or indirectly linked with major river systems such as the Ganga, the Cauvery, the Krishan, the Godavari and the Tapti. A Directory of Wetlands in India (1988) gives information on the location, area and ecological categorization of wetlands of our country. Wetlands in India are distributed in different geographical regions ranging from Himalayas to Deccan plateau. The variability in climatic conditions and changing topography is responsible for significant diversity. They are classified into different types based on their origin, vegetation, nutrient status, thermal characteristics, like 1. Glaciatic Wetlands (e.g., Tsomoriri in Jammu and Kashmir, Chandertal in Himachal Pradesh).
2. Tectonic Wetlands (e.g., Nilnag in Jammu and Kashmir, Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh, and Nainital and Bhimtal in Uttaranchal).
3. Oxbow Wetlands (e.g., Dal Lake, Wular Lake in Jammu and Kashmir and Loktak Lake in Manipur and some of the wetlands in the river plains of Brahmaputra and Indo-Gangetic region. Deepor Beel in Assam, Kabar in Bihar, Surahtal in Uttar Pradesh).
4. Lagoons (e.g., Chilika in Orissa).
5. Crater Wetlands (Lonar lake in Maharashtra).
6. Salt water Wetlands (e.g., Pangong Tso in Jammu and Kashmir and Sambhar in Rajasthan)
7. Urban Wetlands (e.g., Dal Lake in Jammu and Kashmir, Nainital in Uttaranchal and Bhoj in Madhya Pradesh).
8. Ponds/Tanks, man-made Wetlands (e.g., Harike in Punjab and Pong Dam in Himachal Pradesh).
12. Creeks (Thane Creek in Maharashtra), seagrasses, estuaries, thermal springs are some kinds of wetlands in the country.
The Indo-Gangetic flood plain is the largest wetland system in India, extending from the river Indus in the west to Brahmaputra in the east. This includes the wetlands of the Himalayan terai and the Indo-Gangetic plains. The vast intertidal areas, mangroves and lagoons along the 7500 kilometer long coastline in West Bengal, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Mangrove forests of the Sunderbans of West Bengal and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Offshore coral reefs of the Gulf of Kutch, Gulf of Mannar, Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Ninety-four wetlands have been identified for conservation and management under the National Programme for Conservation and Management of Wetlands.
These wetlands are eligible for financial assistance on 100% grant basis to the concerned State Governments for undertaking activities like survey and demarcation, weed control, catchment area treatment, desiltation, conservation of biodiversity, pollution abatement, livelihood support creation of minor infrastructure, educational awareness, capacity building of various stakeholders, and community development. So far 24 States have been covered; the remaining States are expected to the covered in the Eleventh Five-Year Plan.
Wetlands play a vital role in maintaining the overall cultural, economic and ecological health of the ecosystem, their fast pace of disappearance from the landscape is of great concern. The Wildlife Protection Act protects few of the ecologically sensitive regions whereas several wetlands are becoming an easy target for anthropogenic exploitation. Survey of 147 major sites across various agro climatic zones identified the anthropogenic interference as the main cause of wetland degradation (The Directory of Indian Wetlands 1993). Current spatial spread of wetlands under various categories is shown.
3. Wetland losses – a threat to ecological balance
Threats to wetland ecosystems comprise the increasing biotic and abiotic pressures and perils.
Biotic
(1) Uncontrolled siltation and weed infestation.
(2) Uncontrolled discharge of waste water, industrial effluents, surface run-off, etc. resulting
in proliferation of aquatic weeds, which adversely affect the flora and fauna.
(3) Tree felling for fuel wood and wood products causes soil loss affecting rainfall pattern,
loss of various aquatic species due to water-level fluctuation.
(4) Habitat destruction leading to loss of fish and decrease in number of migratory birds.
Abiotic
(1) Encroachment resulting in shrinkage of area.
(2) Anthropogenic pressures resulting in habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.
(3) Uncontrolled dredging resulting in successional changes.
(4) Hydrological intervention resulting in loss of aquifers.
(5) Pollution from point and non-point sources resulting in deterioration of water quality.
(6) Ill-effects of fertilizers and insecticides used in adjoining agricultural fields.
Coastal ecosystems are among the most productive yet highly threatened systems in the world. These ecosystems produce disproportionately more services relating to human well-being than most other systems, even those covering larger total areas, but are experiencing some of the most rapid degradation and loss:
(1). About 35% of mangroves have been lost over the last two decades, driven primarily by aquaculture development, deforestation, and freshwater diversion.
(2). Some 20% of coral reefs were lost and more than a further 20% degraded in the last several decades of the twentieth century through overexploitation, destructive fishing practices, pollution and siltation and changes in storm frequency and intensity.
(3). There is established but incompleteevidence that the changes being made are increasing the likelihood of nonlinear and potentially abrupt changes in ecosystems, with important consequences for human well-being. These nonlinear changes can be large in magnitude and difficult, expensive, or impossible to reverse. For example, once a threshold of nutrient loading is crossed, changes in freshwater and coastal ecosystems can be abrupt and extensive, creating harmful algal blooms (including blooms of toxic species) and sometimes leading to the formation of oxygen-depleted zones, killing all animal life. Capabilities for predicting some nonlinear changes are improving, but on the whole scientists cannot predict the thresholds at which change will be encountered. The increased likelihood of these nonlinear changes stems from the loss of biodiversity and growing pressures from multiple direct drivers of ecosystem change. The loss of species and genetic diversity decreases the resilience of ecosystems —their ability to maintain particular ecosystem services as conditions change. In addition, growing pressures from drivers such as overharvesting, climate change, invasive species, and nutrient loading push ecosystems toward thresholds that they might otherwise not encounter.
(4). Many wetland-dependent species in many parts of the world are in decline; the status of species dependent on inland waters and of waterbirds dependent on coastal wetlands is of particular concern. Although the evidence has geographical limitations and is chiefly from species already globally threatened with extinction.
The primary indirect drivers of degradation and loss of rivers, lakes, freshwater marshes, and other inland wetlands (including loss of species or reductions of populations in these systems) have been population growth and increasing economic development. The primary direct drivers of degradation and loss include infrastructure development, land conversion, water withdrawal, pollution, overharvesting and overexploitation, and the introduction of invasive alien species.
The current loss rates in India can lead to serious consequences, where 74% of the human population is rural (Anon. 1994) and many of these people are resource dependent. Healthy wetlands are essential in India for sustainable food production and potable water availability for humans and livestock. They are also necessary for the continued existence of India’s diverse populations of wildlife and plant species; a large number of endemic species are wetland dependent. Most problems pertaining to India’s wetlands are related to human population. India contains 16% of the world’s population, and yet constitutes only 2.42% of the earth’s surface. Indian landscape has contained fewer and fewer natural wetlands over time. Restoration of these converted wetlands is quite difficult once these sites are occupied for non-wetland uses. Hence, the demand for wetland products (e.g., water, fish, wood, fiber, medicinal plants etc.) will increase with increase in population. Wetland loss refers to physical loss in the spatial extent or loss in the wetland function. The loss of one km2 of wetlands in India will have much greater impacts than the loss of one km2 of wetlands in low population areas of abundant wetlands (Foote Lee et al. 1996). The wetland loss in India can be divided into two broad groups namely acute and chronic losses. The filling up of wet areas with soil constitutes acute loss whereas the gradual elimination of forest cover with subsequent erosion and sedimentation of the wetlands over many decades is termed as chronic loss.
Acute wetland losses
(1). Direct deforestation in wetlands:Mangrove vegetation are flood and salt tolerantand grow along the coasts and are valued forfish and shellfish, livestock fodder, fuel wood,building materials, local medicine, honey, beeswax and for extracting chemicals for tanningleather (Ahmad 1980). Alternative farming methodsand fisheries production has replaced manymangrove areas and continues to pose threats.Eighty percent of India’s 4240 km2 of mangroveforests occur in the Sunderbans and the Andamanand Nicobar Islands (Anon. 1991). But most of thecoastal mangroves are under severe pressure due to the economic demand on shrimps. Important ecosystem functions such as buffer zones against storm surges, nursery grounds and escape cover for commercially important fishery are lost. The shrimp farms also caused excessive withdrawal of freshwater and increased pollution load on water like increased lime, organic wastes, pesticides, chemicals and disease causing organisms. The greatest impacts were on the people directly dependent on the mangroves for natural materials, fish proteins and revenue. The ability of wetlands to trap sediments and slow water is reduced.
(2). Hydrologic alteration:Alteration in the hydrology can change thecharacter, functions, values and the appearance ofwetlands. The changes in hydrology include eitherthe removal of water from wetlands or raising theland-surface elevation, such that it no longerfloods. Canal dredging operations have been conductedin India from 1800s due to which 3044 km2of irrigated land has increased to 4550 km2 in1990 (Anon. 1994). Initial increase in the crop productivityhas given way for reduced fertility andsalt accumulations in soil due to irrigated farmingof arid soils. India has 32,000 ha of peat-land remainingand drainage of these lands will lead torapid subsidence of soil surface.
(3). Agricultural conversion:The primary direct driver of the loss and degradation of coastal wetlands, including saltwater marshes, mangroves, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs, has been conversion to other land uses. In the Indian subcontinent due to rice culture,there has been a loss in the spatial extent of wetlands.Rice farming is a wetland dependent activityand is developed in riparian zones, river deltasand savannah areas. Due to captured precipitationfor fishpond aquaculture in the catchment areasand rice-farms occupying areas that are not wetlands, water is deprived to the downstream natural wetlands. Around 1.6 million hectares of freshwater are covered by freshwater fishponds in India. Rice-fields and fishponds come under wetlands, but they rarely function like natural wetlands. Of the estimated 58.2 million hectares of wetlands in India, 40.9 million hectares are under rice cultivation (Anon. 1993).
Chronic wetland losses
(1). Degradation of water quality:Water quality is directly proportional to humanpopulation and its various activities. Morethan 50,000 small and large lakes are polluted tothe point of being considered ‘dead’ (Chopra 1985).The major polluting factors are sewage, industrialpollution and agricultural runoff, which may containpesticides, fertilizers and herbicides.
(2). Introduced species and extinction of native biota:Wetlands in India support around 2400 speciesand subspecies of birds. But losses in habitat have threatened the diversity of these ecosystems(Mitchell & Gopal 1990). Introduction of exotic species like water hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes) and salvinia (Salvinia molesta) have threatened the wetlands and clogged the waterways competing with the native vegetation. In a recent attempt at prioritization of wetlandsfor conservation, Samant (1999) noted that as many as 700 potential wetlands do not have anydata to prioritize. Many of these wetlands are threatened.
(3). Ground water depletion:Draining of wetlands has depleted the groundwater recharge. Recent estimate indicates that inrural India, about 6000 villages are without asource for drinking water due to the rapid depletionof ground water.
4. Condition and Trends in Wetland-dependent Species
There is increasing evidence of a rapid and continuing widespread decline in many populations of wetland-dependent species. Data on the status and population trends of species in some inland wetland-dependent groups, including mollusks, amphibians, fish, waterbirds, and some water-dependent mammals, have been compiled and show clear declines. An overall index of the trend in vertebrate species populations has also been developed and shows a continuous and rapid decline in freshwater vertebrate populations since 1970—a markedly more drastic decline than for terrestrial or marine species.
Even in the case of more poorly known wetland fauna, such as invertebrates, existing assessments show that species in these groups are significantly threatened with extinction. For example, the IUCN Red List reports that some 275 species of freshwater crustacea and 420 freshwater mollusks are globally threatened, although no comprehensive global assessment has been made of all the species in these groups. In the United States, one of the few countries to comprehensively assess freshwater mollusks and crustaceans, 50% of known crayfish species and two thirds of freshwater mollusks are at risk of extinction, and at least one in 10 freshwater mollusks are likely to have already gone extinct. Nearly one third (1,856 species) of the world’s amphibian species are threatened with extinction, a large portion of which (964 species) are freshwater-dependent. (By comparison, just 12% of all bird species and 23% of all mammal species are threatened.) In addition, at least 43% of all amphibian species are declining in population, indicating that the number of threatened species can be expected to rise in the future. In contrast, less than 1% of species show population increases. Species dependent on flowing water have a much higher likelihood of being threatened than those in still water. (Figure 5) Basins with the highest number of threatened freshwater species— between 13 and 98 species—include the Amazon, Yangtze, Niger, Paraná, Mekong, Red and Pearl (China), Krishna (India), and Balsas and Usumacinta (Central America). The rate of decline in the conservation status of freshwater amphibians is far greater than that of terrestrial species. As amphibians are excellent indicators of the quality of the overall environment, this underpins the notion of the current declining condition of freshwater habitats around the world.
Key vulnerabilities
Gitay et al. (2001) have described some inland aquatic ecosystems (Arctic, sub-Arctic ombrotrophic bog communities on permafrost, depressional wetlands with small catchments, drained or otherwise converted peatlands) as most vulnerable to climate change, and have indicated the limits to adaptations due to the dependence on water availability controlled by outside factors. More recent results show vulnerability varying by geographical region (Stern, 2007). This includes significant negative impacts across 25% of Africa by 2100 (SRES B1 emissions scenario, de Wit and Stankiewicz, 2006) with both water quality and ecosystem goods and services deteriorating. Since it is generally difficult and costly to control hydrological regimes, the interdependence between catchments across national borders often leaves little scope for adaptation.
Impacts
Climate change impacts on inland aquatic ecosystems will range from the direct effects of the rise in temperature and CO2 concentration to indirect effects through alterations in the hydrology resulting from the changes in the regional or global precipitation regimes and the melting of glaciers and ice cover (e.g., Chapters 1 and 3; Cubasch et al., 2001; Lemke et al., 2007; Meehl et al., 2007). Studies since the TAR (Third assessment report of IPCC) have confirmed and strengthened the earlier conclusions that rising temperature will lower water quality in lakes through a fall in hypolimnetic oxygen concentrations, release of phosphorus (P) from sediments, increased thermal stability, and altered mixing patterns (Jankowski et al., 2006). In northern latitudes, ice cover on lakes and rivers will continue to break up earlier and the ice-free periods to increase (Duguay et al., 2006). Higher temperatures will negatively affect micro-organisms and benthic invertebrates (Kling et al., 2003) and the distribution of many species of fish (Kling et al., 2003); invertebrates, waterfowl and tropical invasive biota are likely to shift polewards (Zalakevicius and Svazas, 2005) with some potential extinctions. Major changes will be likely to occur in the species composition, seasonality and production of planktonic communities (e.g., increases in toxic blue-green algal blooms) and their food web interactions (Winder and Schindler, 2004) with consequent changes in water quality. Enhanced UV-B radiation and increased summer precipitation will significantly increase dissolved organic carbon concentrations, altering major biogeochemical cycles (Frey and Smith, 2005). Studies along an altitudinal gradient in Sweden show that NPP can increase by an order of magnitude for a 6°C air temperature increase (Karlsson et al., 2005). However, tropical lakes may respond with a decrease in NPP and a decline in fish yields (e.g., 20% NPP and 30% fish yield reduction in Lake Tanganyika due to warming over the last century O’Reilly et al., 2003). Higher CO2 levels will generally increase NPP in many wetlands, although in bogs and paddy fields it may also stimulate methane flux, thereby negating positive effects (Zheng et al., 2006). Boreal peatlands will be affected most by warming and increased winter precipitation as the species composition of both plant and animal communities will change significantly (Weltzin et al., 2000, 2001, 2003; Berendse et al., 2001; Keller et al., 2004;). Numerous arctic lakes will dry out with a 2-3°C temperature rise (Smith et al., 2005 ;). The seasonal migration patterns and routes of many wetland species will need to change and some may be threatened with extinction. Small increases in the variability of precipitation regimes will significantly impact wetland plants and animals at different stages of their life cycle. In monsoonal regions, increased variability risks diminishing wetland biodiversity and prolonged dry periods promote terrestrialisation of wetlands as witnessed in Keoladeo National Park, India (Chauhan and Gopal, 2001).
5. Wetland management - current status
Wetlands are not delineated under any specific administrative jurisdiction. The primary responsibility for the management of these ecosystems is in the hands of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Although some wetlands are protected after the formulation of the Wildlife Protection Act, the others are in grave danger of extinction. Effective coordination between the different ministries, energy, industry, fisheries revenue, agriculture, transport and water resources, is essential for the protection of these ecosystems.
Cardinal Constituents of Comprehensive Strategy for Wetland Conservation:
The conservation and management of wetlands calls for a comprehensive strategy, ranging from legal framework and policy support to inventorization, institutional mechanism, capacity building, and community participation. The position with regard to these aspects is as follows:
Legal framework
Though there is no separate provision for specific legal instrument for wetland conservation, the legal framework for conservation and management is provided by the following legal instruments:
1. Several legislations have been enacted which have relevance to wetland conservation. These include Forest Act, 1927, Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, the Water Cess Act, 1977 and the umbrella provision of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
2. India has set up 505 Wildlife Sanctuaries and 100 National Parks, 14 Biosphere Reserves, 6 Heritage Sites, Projects on Tiger conservation and Elephant conservation and Marine Turtles conservation with the objective of effective conservation of wetlands, and floral and faunal wealth in forest areas.
3. Notification declaring the coastal stretches of seas, bays, estuaries, creeks, rivers and backwaters, which are influenced by tidal action (in the landward side) up to 500 metres from the high tide line, and the land between the low tide line and the high tide line as the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991 under the provision of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. This proposes graded restriction on setting up and expansion of industries, including pressures from human activities.
4. Portions of the listed sites have been declared as Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks.
5. Guidelines for sustainable development and management of brackish water aquaculture have been drawn up. State Governments like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have aquaculture guidelines also at the local level.
6. The Biodiversity Act, 2002, and the Biodiversity Rules, 2004, are aimed at safeguarding the floral and faunal biodiversity, and regulating their flow from the country to other countries for research and commercial use. Thus, their provisions also contribute towards conserving, maintaining, and augmenting the floral, faunal and avifaunal biodiversity of the country’s aquatic bodies.
Policy Support: National Environment Policy (NEP), 2006
Our National Environment Policy (NEP), approved by the Cabinet on 19 May 2006, recognizes the numerous ecological services rendered by wetlands. The NEP states:
‘Wetlands are under threat from drainage and conversion for agriculture and human settlements, besides pollution. This happens because public authorities or individuals having jurisdiction over wetlands derive little revenues from them, while the alternative use may result in windfall financial gains to them. However, in many cases, the economic values of wetlands’ environmental services may significantly exceed the value from alternative use. On the otherhand, the reduction in economic value of their environmental services due to pollution, as well as the health costs of the pollution itself are not taken into account while using them as a waste dump. There also does not yet exist a formal system of wetland regulation outside the international commitments made in respect of Ramsar sites. A holistic view of wetlands is necessary, which looks at each identified wetland in terms of its causal linkages with other natural entities, human needs, and its own attributes.’
The Environmental Policy identifies the following six-fold Action Plan:
1. Set up a legally enforceable regulatory mechanism for identified valuable wetlands to prevent their degradation and enhance their conservation. Develop a national inventory of such wetlands.
2. Formulate conservation and prudent use strategies for each significant catalogued wetland, with participation of local communities, and other relevant stakeholders.
3. Formulate and implement eco-tourism strategies for identified wetlands through multi stakeholder partnerships involving public agencies, local communities and investors.
4. Take explicit amount of impacts on wetlands of significant development projects during the environmental appraisal of such projects; in particular, the reduction in economic value of wetland environmental services should be explicitly factored into cost-benefit analysis.
5. Consider particular unique wetlands as entities with ‘Incomparable Values’, in developing strategies for their protection.
6. Integrate wetland conservation, including conservation of village ponds and tanks, into sectoral development plans for poverty alleviation and livelihood improvement, and the link efforts for conservation and sustainable use of wetlands with the ongoing rural infrastructure development and employment generation programmes. Promote traditional techniques and practices for conserving village ponds.
Inventorization
Survey and inventorization should take into consideration identification of different human activities, effect of both industrial and domestic effluents, and information obtained through remote sensing to be verified with the ground truth data for getting proper results. This component includes mapping of catchment areas through revenue records, survey and assessment, and land-use pattern using GIS techniques, with emphasis on drainage pattern, vegetation cover, siltation cover, encroachment, conversion of wetlands, human settlements, total area encroached, human activities at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, and their impact on catchment and water body. The following surveys of wetlands have been undertaken so far:
1. Asian Wetland Directory, 1989 – identified 93 Wetlands of International Importance.
2. Wetland Directory published in 1990 by the Ministry of Environment and Forests using questionnaire survey.
3. Identification of 2167 natural freshwater wetlands covering 1.5 million ha area.
4. Identification of 65,253 man-made freshwater wetlands covering 2.6 million ha area.
5. WWF-India and the Ministry of Environment and Forests in 1993 identified 54 additional wetlands of international importance with more details.
6. Space Application Centre using remote sensing techniques identified 27,403 inland and coastal wetlands covering 7.6 million ha
7. Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology under UNDP project has undertaken survey of 72 districts.
8. A project on ‘National Wetland Information System and Updation of Wetland Inventory’ has been sanctioned by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The objectives of this project are (1) to map and inventorize wetlands on 1:50,000 scale by on-screen interpretation of digital IRS LISS III data of post and pre-monsoon seasons, (2) to prepare State-wise wetland Atlases, and (3) to create a digital database in GIS environment in respect of all wetlands in the country.
9. The Centre for Advanced Studies in Marine Biology at Annamalai University, Parangipettai, has been assisted in project mode for updating all wetlands in the country.
Institutional mechanism
(a) It is imperative to have multi-disciplinary, holistic and integrated approach for achieving long-term sustainable wetland conservation and management measures. At present, various models exist in States and different nodal agencies are responsible for implementing the Wetland Conservation Programme. In some States, the programme is executed by the Department of Forests and/or Environment or Urban Development; in some others, it is the Department of Irrigation or Science and Technology or Fisheries. However, the Wetland Conservation and Management is a specialized technical and scientific field where multi-disciplinary approach is needed, involving a number of components like water management, sustainable fisheries development, hydrological aspects, socio-economic issues, community participation, weed control, biodiversity conservation and use of aquatic macrophytes for nutrient recycling process, hydrological aspects providing information about inflow/outflow pattern in the system, nutrient fluxes and nutritional dynamics. These aspects need to be dealt with in a coordinated manner by managers having expertise in the relevant fields.
(b) Taking into consideration the complexity of the issue, the State Steering Committees have been constituted under the chairmanship of Chief Secretaries of the States having members from all Departments concerned. The Committee is also expected to have representatives from communities, NGOs and academicians. The officer from the nodal department acts as a member-secretary of the Committee. The success of the programme depends upon its strong institutional mechanism where conservation efforts are undertaken through integrated and multi-disciplinary approach. However, due to inadequacy of infrastructure and staff, conservation activities are yet to acquire comprehensiveness and sustainability in some States.
State Governments have been advised to consider constitution of Wetland Conservation Authorities so that experts from various Departments undertake conservation activities in a more scientific, cohesive and sustainable manner.
(c) Some States have already constituted Authorities for execution of wetland conservation programmes in their respective States. Notable among them are Chilika Development Authority in Orissa (mandated to manage all identified lakes in the State); Loktak Development Authority in Manipur; Shore Area Development Authority in Andhra Pradesh; Lakes and Waterways Development Authority in Jammu and Kashmir; Lake Development Authority in Karnataka and Lake Conservation Authority in Madhya Pradesh.
Capacity building
Capacity building is a major tool without which no conservation activity is possible. We need to have good infrastructure, trained people, and case studies to teach values and functions of wetlands in an integrated and multi-disciplinary manner. The Ministry has taken several initiatives in this regard as per details given below.
(a) It has published several reports/documents on conservation and wise use of wetlands which include six monographs on Ramsar sites in collaboration with WWF India and eco-tourism guidelines for Chilika Lake.
(b) During the Tenth Five Year Plan, several training programmes have been conducted in collaboration with different academic organizations/research institutes/State Governments/international NGOs to impart training on various components of wetland conservation which include wise use, catchment area treatment, weed control, hydrological aspects, research methodology, preparation of management action plans and community participation. Training is imparted to policy makers, senior/ middle level managers, organizations, stakeholders and others. A National Training Programme for Integrated Water Resource Management and Wetland Conservation was organized during 7-11 August 2006 by Chilika Development Authority with the financial support from Ministry of Environment and Forests. More training programmes are proposed to be organized at different regions of the
Country.
A series of regional workshops were organized in various parts of the country to make people aware of the importance of wetlands and integrate their traditional knowledge in the planning process. The following regional and international workshops were organized during the Tenth Plan:
1 Western Region, Gujarat
2 Southern Region, Kerala
3 Eastern Region, Orissa
4 North-Eastern Region, Manipur
5 Central Region, Madhya Pradesh
6 Northern region, Uttar Pradesh
7 Northern region, Jammu and Kashmir
8 Southern region, Lakshadweep
9 International Workshop on High Altitude Wetlands, Sikkim
10 Meeting of Board of Directors of Wetland International, Rajasthan
Holding regional workshops along with research organizations and wetland managers is an ongoing feature.
Community Participation
(a) No decision-making is complete without participation of local people whose livelihoods depend on wetland resources. People have been using wetlands since time immemorial. We have to blend both traditional and latest scientific technologies to achieve long-term conservation goals. Participatory Rural Appraisal exercise involving local communities should be the main ingredient of community participation. It should also take into consideration issues of women and gender sensitization and involve women in the management process.
(b) The component of community participation comprises the following constituents.
1. Assessment of resource availability by surveys and participatory rural appraisal of the site.
2. Stakeholder analysis
3. Contact with external institutions for resource and technical advice
4. Utilization of wastes and aquatic weeds for energy regeneration, for example through installation of community- based biogas plants.
5. Additional alternate income generation programmes like handloom, handicrafts, integrated farm management techniques and other measures to reduce pressure on wetlands.
6. Highlighting of gender-related cross-cultural, governance-related practices and other special concerns for assessment by community.
(c) The Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs), also referred to as Village Protection Committees (VPCs) or Eco-Development Committees (EDCs), are expected to play an active role in conservation and management of wetlands located in forest fringe areas, i.e. normally within a radius of 5 km of forest boundary. The JFMC/ VPC/EDC shall be instrumental in mobilization of communities and for implementing equitable access to information rights.
Use of Geo-spatial technology in wetland management
Remote sensing data in combination with Geographic Information System (GIS) are effective tools for wetland conservation and management. The application encompasses water resource assessment, hydrologic modeling, flood management, reservoir capacity surveys, assessment and monitoring of the environmental impacts of water resources project and water quality mapping and monitoring (Jonna 1999).
Flood zonation mapping
Satellite data are used for interpretation and delineation of flood-inundated regions, flood-risk zones. Temporal data helps us to obtain correct ground information about the status of ongoing conservation projects. IRS 1C/D WIFS data having 180 km spatial resolution and high temporal repetitiveness has helped in delineating the zonation of flooding areas of large river bodies, thus helping in the preparation of state-wise and basin wise flood inventories.
Water quality analysis and modeling
Remote sensing data is used for the analysis of water quality parameters and modeling. Water quality studies have been done carried out using the relationship between reflectance, suspended solid concentration, and chlorophyll-a concentration. In the near infrared wavelength range, the amount of suspended solids content is directly proportional to the reflectance. Due to spatial and temporal resolution of satellite data information of the source of pollution and the point of discharge, inflow of sewage can be regularly monitored. Using IRS LISS II data (Sasmal & Raju 1996) monitored the suspended load in estuarine waters of Hoogly, West Bengal in a GIS environment. In this study band 4 of the data set was found to show a wider range of digital classes indicating a better response with depth than rest of the bands. Landsat TM and IRS –1A data were used to estimate sediment load in Upper lake, Bhopal (Raju et al. 1993). This study showed high relationship between the satellite as well as ground truth radiometric data and total suspended solids. Different image processing algorithms are also used on Landsat MSS dataset to delineate sediment concentration in reservoirs (Jonna et al. 1989). Qualitative remote sensing methods have been used for real time monitoring of Inland Water quality (Gitelson et al. 1993) Airborne sensor has also been used to study the primary productivity and related parameters of coastal waters and large water bodies (Seshmani et al. 1994).
Water resource management
With the development of highly precise remote sensing techniques in spatial resolution and GIS, the modeling of watershed has become more physically based and distributed to enumerate interactive hydrological processes considering spatial heterogeneity. A distributed model with SCS curve number method called as Land Use Change (LUC) model was developed (Mohan & Shresta 2000) to assess the hydrological changes due to land use modification. The model developed was applied to Bagmati river catchment in Kathmandu valley basin, Nepal. The study clearly demonstrated that integration of remote sensing, GIS and spatially distributed model provides a powerful tool for assessment of the hydrological changes due to landuse modifications.
Mapping of Wetland
The Space Application Center (SAC) has mapped the wetlands at 1:250000 scale in the mainland as well the islands using the visual interpretation of coarse resolution satellite data. The states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Goa Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Andaman, Nicobar, Lakshwadeep, Dadra and Nagerhaveli were mapped at 1:50000 scale. However, in the rest of the country, only wetlands of 56.25 ha and above in size could be mapped. It is known that a vast majority of wetlands-often in number, extent and conservation importance is below 50 ha in size (For example, those in the Indo-gangetic plains and in the Deccan peninsula). Thus, the inventory covered only a small number of wetlands: more over, the conservation values are not known for those wetlands even whose inventory has now been obtained. The data merely indicates location of wetlands, the classification of wetlands on 1:250,000 scale is moreover, only geomorphologic in nature (such as Oxbow lakes, Playas, Lakes and Ponds etc.) and has no other factual biological conservation value. By itself, the information will only be partly useful for conservation of wetlands. This estimate is likely to be twice if we include wetlands of size 50 ha or less (Das et al. 1994 for Etwah and Mainpuri districts of U.P.).
6. Conclusion
Threats to wetland ecosystems comprise the increasing biotic and abiotic pressures and perils. About 35% of mangroves have been lost over the last two decades, driven primarily by aquaculture development, deforestation, and freshwater diversion. Some 20% of coral reefs were lost and more than a further 20% degraded in the last several decades of the twentieth century through overexploitation, destructive fishing practices, pollution and siltation and changes in storm frequency and intensity. The primary direct driver of the loss and degradation of coastal wetlands, including saltwater marshes, mangroves, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs, has been conversion to other land uses. In the Indian subcontinent due to rice culture,there has been a loss in the spatial extent of wetlands. Wetlands in India support around 2400 speciesand subspecies of birds. But losses in habitat have threatened the diversity of these ecosystemsIntroduction of exotic species like water hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes) and salvinia (Salvinia molesta) have threatened the wetlands and clogged the waterways competing with the native vegetation. As many as 700 potential wetlands do not have anydata to prioritize. Many of these wetlands are threatened. In monsoonal regions, increased variability risks diminishing wetland biodiversity and prolonged dry periods promote terrestrialisation of wetlands as witnessed in Keoladeo National Park, India. So far as current status of wetland management in India is concerned, Wetlands are not delineated under any specific administrative jurisdiction. The primary responsibility for the management of these ecosystems is in the hands of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Although some wetlands are protected after the formulation of the Wildlife Protection Act, the others are in grave danger of extinction. Effective coordination between the different ministries, energy, industry, fisheries revenue, agriculture, transport and water resources, is essential for the protection of these ecosystems. The dynamic nature of wetlands necessitates the widespread and consistent use of satellite based remote sensors and low cost, affordable GIS tools for effective management and monitoring.
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About the Author
I am Imran Ahmad Dar. I have completed my M.Sc. in Environmental Sciences in Kashmir University, India and i am doing research (Ph.D) in the department of Industries and Earth Sciences, Tamil University, India.I am having seven(refreed and peer reviewed) international publications. In addition i have presented three papers in National Symposium/Conferences. Moreover, presently, i am the Editor of the journal- Journal of Wetland Ecology, besides being the reviewer of Journal of Coastal Research and Journal of Hydrology.
The Mekong Institute: A Human Resource Development Centre in the Greater Mekong Subregion
