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Gambier Islands

The Gambier Islands are a group of small volcanic islands surrounded by coral reefs in the southeast extreme of the Tuamotu Islands archipelago of French Polynesia.

Gambier Group

 * — the largest island and only island developed for tourism. Mangareva has a permanent population of over 1,200 (2012). The largest village on the island, Rikitea, is the chief town of the Gambier Islands.
 * Undeveloped —
 * — (population 22 in 2012)
 * — (population 40 in 2012)
 * — (population 9 in 2012)
 * — (uninhabited as of 2012)
 * Uninhabited — Angakauitai, Apou, Atumata, Gaioio, Kouaku, Makapu, Makaroa, Manui, Mekiro, Motu-O-Ari, Motu Teiku, Papuri, Puaumu, Rumarei, Tarauru Roa, Tauna, Teauaone, Teauotu, Tekava, Tenoko, Tepapuri, Tepu Nui, Teohootepohatu, Tokorua, Totengengie, Tuaeu, Vaiatekeue.

Acteon Group
All the four small atolls in the group are uninhabited: Matureivavao, Tenararo, Tenarunga, and Vahanga.

Understand
There are no ATMs or banks, so you will need to bring enough cash for your stay. Locals here deal with cash only. You can exchange US dollars or euros for French Polynesian francs) at the post office in Rikitea. The pensions sometimes accept credit cards (ask first).

Mangareva is approximately 8 km (5 mi) long and, at 15.4 km² (5.9 sq mi), it comprises about 56% of the land area of the whole Gambier group. Mangareva has a high central ridge which runs the length of the island. The highest point in the Gambiers is Mt. Duff, on Mangareva, rising to 441 m along the island's south coast. The island has a large lagoon 24 km (15 mi) in diameter containing reefs whose fish and shellfish helped ancient islanders survive much more successfully than on nearby islands with no reefs.

Climate
At 23 degrees south, you will find the subtropical climate more comfortable than the main/Society Islands. Humidity is lower, and trade winds provide a welcome relief. The climate is comparable to that of Hawaii.

History
Mangareva was once heavily forested and supported a large population that traded with other islands via canoes. However, excessive logging by the islanders during the 10th to the 15th centuries resulted in deforestation of the island, with disastrous results for its environment and economy.

The first European to arrive at Mangareva was British Captain James Wilson in 1797 on the ship Duff. Wilson named the island group in honour of Admiral James Gambier, who had helped him to equip his vessel.

Mangareva along with its dependencies in the Gambier Islands were ruled by a line of kings and later regents until the French annexed the islands in 1882.

Read
Painter and author Robert Lee Eskridge's book Manga Reva: The Forgotten Islands (Bobbs Merrill; 1931) offers first-hand observations of the environment, peoples, and traditions of Mangareva. Eskridge also wrote and illustrated a children's book about his visit to Mangareva: South Sea Playmates (Bobbs Merrill; 1933).

Talk
Speaking French (or Mangarevan) will serve you well as very few locals speak English at a conversational level. The pension operators know very basic English - with a bit of French, you can get by. If there is an emergency speak to Monica, the mayor/police officer, and she help you find an English speaker. John who lives on Kamaka is fluent, as is his son who lives in town. Remember to say "merci" and "nana" after someone has helped you. They mean "Thank you" (French) and "See you later".

Get around
There are no rental cars. Arrange with your pension to be picked up at the dock (after taking the ferry from the airport on the motu). The island's 27-km (16-mile) circle road can be walked in 4-6 hours. It's a great walk. If you wish to see one of the other islands in the group, ask your pension about day trips. Pension Moroi offers a great day trip to see several other islands. It's a fascinating day.

See

 * Rikitea Ruins - At Mangareva's main village, Rikitea, visitors will find a number of ruins. Among these archeological relics are a convent, a triumphal arch, several watchtowers, a prison and a court. These abandoned remains have been noted for their dark, eerie feel.
 * Rikitea Rectory - Across the path from St. Michael of Rikitea Church is a well-maintained 140-year-old rectory, occupied by the parish priest.

Do
Enjoy a piece of the planet nearly untouched by the modern world. The lagoon is stunning. Tour a black pearl farm. Spend a day on a motu having a picnic, tour Mangareva's historic churches. Snorkeling is quite good, if only there was a dive operation. Watch the stars at night. Hike around the entire island, or to the top of Mt. Duff, 1200 ft, the only volcanic remnant of all the original volcanoes which made up the Tuamotu archipelago.

Eat
There are one or two restaurants in Rikitea. You can also eat at the pensions (let them know ahead of time as they only prepare enough food for those they know are coming for dinner). Food at the pensions is simple, tasty, and plentiful and you will not go hungry. The hospitality is heartwarming.

Drink
Despite the legacy of French nuclear testing at nearby Muraroa atoll, the water is safe to drink, and bottled water is available from small shops in town. Many of the locals, the soils, and groundwater have been tested for residual radiation by the French government and Greenpeace. All results were negative for radionucleotides. There are no surface streams or wells, and all potable water is collected by catchment from roofs, and thus quite safe to drink.

In Rikitea there are two small markets. One has a decent selection of alcohol, but you will pay dearly for anything but beer. A bottle of Absolut Vodka was priced at nearly USD100. If you wish to have anything specific for you trip you'd better bring it with you to save money, as prices even in Papeete are high.

At night the pensions and small restaurants in Rikitea serve beer (Hirono). Prices are high, but reasonable given the remoteness of the islands.

Stay safe
The locals are friendly and a delight. Wear lots of suncreen, and be careful of stonefish. Bug spray is recommended. Europeans, and to an increasing degree North Americans, are less modest than Polynesians. Dress appropriately — public nudity is discouraged.

Go next

 * Mangareva is famous for being the only island that provides a regular travel link to the Pitcairn Islands. Hop on a boat for a 32-hour ride. Mangareva is reached by boat from the nearby airport across the lagoon.
 * Tuamotu Islands

title: Gambier Islands


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Gamboa

Gamboa is a small town in Central Panama.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Gamboa


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Gampaha

Gampaha is a city in Sri Lanka.

Get in
About 25km from Colombo. Can come by bus or train or taxi. 45mins to 60 mins.

See
Henarathgoda Train station one of the oldest train station in Sri Lanka.

 * Gampaha Botanical Garden is one of the at least 6 botanical gardens in the island and one of the biggest
 * Attanagalla Temple
 * Maligakanda Temple
 * Pilikuttuwa mountain monastery
 * Nissarana Vanaya Forrest Tradition monastery
 * Te-watta Church

Buy
Handicrafts in Wewaldeniya and Nittambuwa Cashew nuts in Kadgugama, Imbulgoda fresh Pineapple and many more.

Eat
Traditional Sri Lankan dishes with Milk rice and many more foods to enjoy through out the city.

Go next

 * Kandy
 * Colombo

title: Gampaha


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Gananoque

Gananoque is a town of about 5,400 people (2021) in Eastern Ontario in the Thousand Islands region on the St. Lawrence River.

Understand
Gananoque traces its history to United Empire Loyalist times; after the American Revolution, Loyalist militia Colonel Joel Stone received a land grant and established a mill site in 1789, The town was attacked during the War of 1812 and stores in the government depot looted by Americans. A five-gun Gananoque Blockhouse, completed in 1813 to defend against further US attacks, stood until 1852.

The Gananoque River watershed was an important water transportation corridor, extending north to the Rideau River watershed. In 1830, water was diverted westward to the Cataraqui River as part of the Rideau Canal, redirecting this traffic to Kingston. A short-line railway, built to haul timber for river shipment, carried mainline passengers to the Gananoque waterfront from 1884 to 1962; the right-of-way is now a hiking trail.

Visitor Information

 * Town of Gananoque

By car
The town is on Highway 2 or 401 on the beaten-path Windsor-Quebec corridor. From Watertown (New York), I-81 north (Penn-Can Highway) ends at the 401; Gananoque is 10 miles (16 km) upriver from the Thousand Islands bridge.

By train

 * Operates between Ottawa and Toronto including stops in Smiths Falls, Brockville, Gananoque, Kingston, Napanee, Bellevile, Trenton, Cobourg, Port Hope, and Oshawa.
 * Operates between Ottawa and Toronto including stops in Smiths Falls, Brockville, Gananoque, Kingston, Napanee, Bellevile, Trenton, Cobourg, Port Hope, and Oshawa.

By plane
There is a tiny airport with no scheduled service. The nearest airport is in Kingston; add a $60-75 taxi ride (one way) from Kingston to Gananoque.

By boat
Cruising on small craft? There is a municipal marina downtown (directly west of the 1000 Islands Playhouse). There are two private marinas which sell gasoline (but not diesel oil):

Get around
Due to the town's small size, there is no local transit system; it is relatively easy to drive or walk anywhere within Gananoque. Visitors to the parkway may wish to bring or rent a bicycle as extensive trails exist.

Local taxis are available from A-One Taxi +1 613-382-3777 or Gananoque Taxi +1 613-382-3399.

Buy
The main commercial district in Gananoque is King Street (Ontario Highway 2) east of the Gananoque River, although there are a handful of businesses near the waterfront at the base of Stone Street South (former Highway 32) including a marina and tour boats. Fuel is usually cheaper on the main street than at the Highway 401/CR32 offramp.

There is no mall and no major department store in town. There are two major supermarkets, a Metro and a No Frills. Housewares are available from Donevan's (downtown), Home Hardware (401 exit 645) and Canadian Tire (King St. E); clothing is available from various small independent merchants on King Street downtown.

There are three tiny art galleries: Little Pump House gallery (2 King St E), Heather Hanes Gallery (27 King St. E) and O’Connor Gallery (130 King St. E).

Eat
Major fast food chains (Tim Horton's, McDonald's, Dairy Queen) are available on King St. East (Ontario Highway 2), along with a few independents. Many of the hotels (including the Gananoque Inn on the waterfront and a few on King St. E.) have restaurants on-site.

Sleep
Various hotel chains (Ramada, HoJo, Holiday Inn Express, Quality Inn, Travelodge) are represented on King Street East (Highway 2) between the downtown and Hwy 401 (exit 648). There are also a few independent motels on King Street West as the old road leaves Gananoque for Kingston. Bed and breakfast is available in central locations, including Stone Street South near the water.

Go next

 * The Thousand Islands and Thousand Islands National Park  — follow the 1000 Islands Parkway eastward through the 1000 Islands region to Brockville.
 * Kingston — one of Canada's most historic cities, about west, and home to Fort Henry and the Lake Ontario end of the Rideau Canal.

title: Gananoque


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Gandía

Gandia (Spanish: Gandía) is a city in Valencia Province, Spain. Gandia is a thriving centre of commerce, and as such does not rely solely on tourism. The beach and the town are some 4 km apart which succeeds in separating the summer tourism from day-to-day living.

Understand
Gandia is the capital of the county of La Safor, between the mountains and the beaches of the Mediterranean. It is 65 km south of Valencia and 116 km north of Alicante and is one of the largest coastal towns and a rather well kept secret. Traditionally Gandia's tourism is Spanish-based, with a major part of it coming from Madrid. It seems though that the cat may be out of the bag with more and more foreign tourism coming to the area. With the foreign tourism boom, there has also been a rise in the number of people coming to live here. Imagine, in the middle of August being able to visit the bank in Gandia without fighting through hoards of people waving foreign currency and smelling of suntan lotion, to then be able to visit the beach and be right in the thick of it all. The same advantages also exist in the winter time. Unlike many coastal towns which become deserted as the colder months approach, Gandia stays populated and open.

Oranges are a considerable source of income, but also onions, tomatoes, peppers and many other natural crops in La Conca de la Safor, handled and packed in the many local stores, contribute to the obvious wealth of the area, together with the industries that make the most varied of goods, the shops that sell them and the tourism, which has an important hotel infrastructure distributed along the coastline.

All these products used to be exported via Gandia harbour, inaugurated in 1893 after an English company built the narrow-gauge railway from Alcoi to Gandia, where the company boats unloaded the coal that heated the factory boilers. The harbour was for many years the main point of export of Valencian oranges and, though it has not the traffic that it used to have in the 1960s, Gandia harbour still has a fishing fleet of some importance, while land transport has replaced transportation by sea. This has generated the appearance of many transport companies owning long-distance truck fleets that travel the roads and motorways of Europe and carry the name of Gandia everywhere in the world where it deserves to be known.

By plane
Two major airports are close enough: Valencia and Alicante, at a distance of 70 km (the former) and 110 km (the later).

By car
Major roads get you to the center of the city. The main A7 motorway is directly adjacent to Gandía.

By boat
The marina at Gandia has 120 moorings up to 30 m. No visitor moorings are available (typical of Mediterranean marinas) but turn up or book and you should get in.

By bus
La Marina Gandiense operates seven bus routes within Gandía and connecting the city to the surrounding pueblos. L2 and L6 connect the train station directly to the city beaches. A single journey costs €1.50-1.80, depending on the route, and is payable directly to the bus driver on entry.

Beaches
Gandia has 7 km of beaches, which are known for their especially fine sand. The beach season runs from June until the end of September.

Festivals
Like its much larger neighbour Valencia, Gandia greets the arrival of springtime with a spectacular pyrotechnic festival known as Falles. Various events and entertainments take place over the period of a few days, culminating in the Feast of Saint Joseph on 19 March. All the hard work put into the creation of giant figures of wood and paper go up in smoke in the great bonfires that take place in the evening as part of the Gandia Falles celebrations.

Eat
Fideuà, a paella-like dish with thick, short noodles and seafood, is originally from Gandía. A variation of this is fideuà negra, prepared in the same manner but with the addition of squid ink.

title: Gandía


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Gander

Gander is a small town of 12,000 people (2016) with a huge international airport on the Trans-Canada Highway in Central Newfoundland. Established in 1935, the airport was once a major refuelling point for almost all trans-Atlantic flights.

Understand
As the easternmost major fog-free airport on the north Atlantic coast, Gander was a frequent stop for both civil and military trans-Atlantic aviation. "Goose and Gander" were strategic transit points for the Royal Air Force Air Ferry Command during World War 2 and key refuelling stops for civil aviation in the early years of commercial "jet set" travel. Both airports have diminished in importance as range of commercial passenger aircraft increased to allow more routes to fly non-stop, advances in instrument navigation made a fog-shrouded landing in St. John's safe and routine, and de-escalation at the end of the Cold War curtailed military flights. On the other side of the Atlantic, Shannon in Ireland had a similar function (and still does for the LCY-NYC flights that are too heavy when taking off with a full tank) and became known as the birthplace of the Duty Free Shop at Airports.

There are various local memorials to aviators and servicemen, including Commonwealth War Graves for a hundred and one who served during the Second World War (Gander hosted air-reconnaissance planes, military defence forces and an anti-aircraft regiment) and a Silent Witnesses Memorial which overlooks a site where an Arrow Air flight carrying 256 peacekeepers of the 101st US Airborne Division "Screaming Eagles” home from the Sinai Peninsula crashed on take-off.

Gander accepted more diverted passengers during the September 11, 2001 attacks than any other Canadian airfield except Halifax and Vancouver and more aircraft than any city except Halifax, adding 6,600 people to its local population (in 2001) of 9650 in just a few hours. Lufthansa named one Airbus A340 "Gander/Halifax" to acknowledge both cities and a book The Day The World Came to Town recorded the incident for posterity. There was also musical called Come From Away which enjoyed successful runs both on Broadway and in London's West End, among other places.

By car
Gander is located on Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway). Gander is west of St. John's and  east of Port Aux Basques.

Airlines
Canadian airlines operating to Gander:
 * Operates daily flights to Gander from Halifax (1.75 hours).
 * Operates flights to Gander from Goose Bay (1.5 hours).
 * Operates flights to Gander from Goose Bay (1.5 hours).

Get around
Busy Bee Cabs and M&S Limousine Service (+1 709 256-8426) provide local transport.

Budget (+1 709 256-3566), National (+1 709 256-4934) and Thrifty (+1 709 256-8955) provide hire cars at the airport; there's also a Rent-a-Wreck (+1 709 256-7066) on the main highway.

Go next

 * Beothuk Interpretation Centre, Boyd's Cove ( north) recalls the now-extinct native tribe.
 * Terra Nova National Park is an hour east on the Trans-Canada Highway
 * Twillingate, Fogo Island and Change Islands are fishing villages with small museums
 * Lewisporte is the base for coastal ferry service to various small Labrador outports not on the Trans-Labrador Highway

title: Gander


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Gandhidham

Gandidham is a port city in the Kutch district of Gujarat.

Get in
Gandhidham being a satellite township of the bustling Kandla port is extremely well connected by Air, Rail and Road. By plane there is one daily flight from Mumbai to the Kandla airport at a distance of 6 km from the main city. By rail its connected by multiple trains coming in at the Gandhidham Railway Station and the NH 8A connects Gandhidham with Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities in India.

See
Being a port city, Gandhidham is totally commercial one and there are hardly any places for tourists.

Another place worth visit is - Gandhi Samadhi. The only second place where last remains of Mahatma Gandhi is kept and over that a memorial is built.

Connect
State Transport Gandhidham Bus depot : +91 2836 220198

Go next
You can visit further places while getting out from the city. Mandvi - a serene beach is 74 km away. While district headquarter Bhuj is at 54 km. In North-East direction, you can visit Dholavira - a centuries-old city excavated from ruins. A Harappan civilization museum is there too.

title: Gandhidham


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Gandhinagar

Gandhinagar (Gujarati: ગાંધીનગર Gāndhīnagar, Hindi: गांधीनगर Gāndhīnagar) is the capital city of the Indian state of Gujarat and the twin city of Ahmedabad. Often hailed as the greenest capital in India, it is fast emerging as a desirable destination for real estate for the Gujaratis, with neighbouring Ahmedabad spilling over.

It is in a green farm belt, and houses major Gujarat Government organisations and administrative buildings, along with famous educational institutes like Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University (PDPU), Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), National Institute of Design, National Institute of Fashion Technology and the Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology. Kalol is most populated tehsil (taluka) of Gandhinagar.

Understand
After being separated from Maharashtra, the state of Gujarat had its government offices in Ahmedabad temporarily. This town was created to set up the government offices through which the state can run. All the bureaucrats travelled by public transport from Ahmedabad to serve the government offices (or, Sachivalaya - Gandhinagar has Old Sachivalaya and New Sachivalaya). Some still do so. New Sachivalayar surrounds Vidhan Sabha or State Senate Building). From its start is a town of bureaucrats. It is now booming with tourism. It is one of the greenest cities in the world and has many high cader high schools and professional teaching institutes. New infrastructure projects by the Gujarat Government are attracting people from whole state and the country. The population is now getting diverse with a mix of professionals, government service personnel, college students. Non-Gujarati community from all over India is increasing like never before. Gandhinagar is becoming a symbol of cultural and economic hub of Gujarat with a lot of foreign investments and multinational companies and businesses.

Get in
As a twin city of Ahmedabad, most of the options will be via Ahmedabad as the services will be more frequent. Although Gandhinagar has its own railway station and GSRTC bus depot (Pathik Ashram).

By plane
Gandhinagar is served by the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) International Airport which is in the area of Hansol, North Zone, Ahmedabad. The airport is expanding with permissions for many international air lines being given and development of new terminals.

There is an international direct flight to New York City/New Jersey (Newark) via Mumbai served by Air India. Non-stop connections are available for Muscat, Kuwait (Kuwait Airways), Dubai (Emirates), Doha Qatar (Qatar Airways), Sharjah (Air Arabia) and Singapore (Singapore Airlines).

Ahmedabad is well-connected domestically via daily flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Indore, Chennai, Bangalore, Goa, Kolkata, Jaipur, Pune, Coimbatore, Hyderabad and Nagpur with connections to several other Indian cities and towns. Flights to Kandla and Surat have also been launched. Most domestic airlines have a flight in and out of Ahmedabad.

The international terminal is not open 24 hours, and may not open until the late afternoon. Similarly, as at other Indian airports, you will likely be denied entry until approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight even if the terminal is open. Therefore, connecting between a domestic and an international flight will often involve waiting outside the airport with the throngs of touts for several hours.

From airport to city:
 * By road: The Hansol area where the airport is lies near the river banks, between the areas of Shahibaug and Naroda that give access to Ahmedabad. For travelling to Gandhinagar, is accessible through the road from Airport Circle (in direction of Naroda from the airport): Take left from Airport Circle onto Indira Bridge and keep straight onto the inter - city highway, crossing roundabouts at Tapovan Circle and Koba Circle, ending at Indroda Circle (CH 0), the starting point of Gandhinagar (from South).
 * By auto rickshaw/taxi: An auto rickshaw or a taxi should cost roughly ₹200 and ₹300 respectively. Save yourself considerable hassle by using the prepaid booth, or, better yet, arrange a pickup through your hotel.

By train
For more frequent services, the best option is Ahmedabad Railway Station (ADI) in Kalupur (Ahmedabad), which is connected with Mumbai (500 km), Vadodara Jaipur, Jodhpur and Delhi with trains several times a day. Daily connections (or multiple weekly connections) are also available to several other major cities including Bikaner, Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara, Udaipur, Indore, Pune, Bhopal, Kolkata, Nagpur, Lucknow, Varanasi, Bhubaneswar, Puri, Chennai, Nagarcoil, Thiruvananthapuram, Bangalore and Coimbatore. Direct trains are also available for Jammu, Patna, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Kolhapur, Goa, Mangalore, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad and Bangalore.

Another railway station of Ahmedabad, Sabarmati Junction (SBI) in northern neighbourhood of Sabarmati, and is closer to Gandhinagar, but has fewer services than the main railway station of Kalupur (Ahmedabad).

Get around
To move about locally in Sectors, travelling in CNG auto-rickshaws is the best option available.

Also VTCOS runs local city buses.

See
Here are the main places to visit in Gandhinagar.

Do

 * Sanskriti Kunj
 * Vidhan Sabha

Drink
Alcohol is prohibited in Gujarat.

Sleep
There are a number of good hotels in Gandhinagar. With Ahmedabad International Airport at a drive of less than 20 minutes (less distance than from most of the neighbourhoods in Ahmedabad), it is not unusual for travellers to stay in the nearby airport hotels and visit Gandhinagar.

Go next

 * Ahmedabad
 * Mehsana
 * Adalaj

title: Gandhinagar


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Ganges

There is more than one place with "Ganges" in its name:
 * The River Ganges is one of the most important rivers of the Indian subcontinent, sacred to Hindus and with many cities on its banks. The Grand Trunk Road runs near it for quite a long distance.
 * The town of Ganges is the largest community on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia, Canada.

title: Ganges


text:
Ganghwa Island

Ganghwa Island (강화도, 江華島 Ganghwado), previously romanized as Kanghwa Island, is a rural county (군, gun) of Incheon, South Korea. It is the fourth largest island in South Korea, with an area of 302.6km2. During the Goryeo Dynasty, it served as a temporary capital for 39 years during the Mongol Empire's invasion. The county of Ganghwa includes several other islands, most notably Seokmodo, the site of Bomunsa Temple.

Understand
Ganghwa is separated from the Korean mainland by a narrow channel, spanned by two bridges passable by cars. North Korea is directly across the channel on the north coast of the island. Since North Korea is across the Han River (the border), tension is felt in the northern part of Ganghwa Island. In fact, even from Ganghwa Bridge, the gateway to Ganghwa Island, you can see the mountains of Gaepung-gun, old Kaesong-si, in the distance. Ganghwado Island was a symbol of exile. Many people were sent to Ganghwa Island when they sent figures who were dangerous to keep alive but had a lot of political burdens to kill. After the Japanese Invasion and the Horan, it was designated as Ganghwa Yushubu and was one of the military important points to defend the outer areas of Hanyang. In the Joseon Dynasty, it was said that the importance of Ganghwa Island was the same as the 'heart of the country'.

By bus
There are frequent direct buses (W4200; 90 min) from Seoul's Sinchon Bus Terminal to the main town of Ganghwa-eup, as well as Bupyeong Station, Hapjeong Station, Songjeong Station, and Incheon Bus Terminal in Incheon. Local buses also connect to Gimpo (the city, not the airport).

Get around
There is a tourist information located inside the bus terminal. No English is spoken but they have English-language tourist maps. There is also a tourist information center at the ferry terminal in Oepo-ri. They speak English.

Local buses appear to be infrequent.

See

 * Jeondeungsa Temple
 * Jeondeungsa Temple
 * Jeondeungsa Temple

Buy
Ganghwa Ginseng and Hwamunseok, which is a mat woven with flower patterns a representative traditional Korean product, with its intricate handwork and designs.

Sleep
There are several motels and yeogwan in Oepo-ri.

title: Ganghwa Island


text:
Gangneung

Gangneung (강릉,江陵) is the largest coastal city in Gangwon Province, third largest overall. Gangneung is nestled at the east side of South Korea's longest mountain range, Taebaek. The Taebaek Mountains stretch along the eastern edge of Korean Peninsula and run along the East Sea.

Understand
Geologically isolated from most parts of the country, the city was able to preserve its own distinct culture, and to date it has a tendency of being politically and culturally more conservative. Gangneung was the venue of the ice sports in the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018.

By high-speed train
Korea Train Express (KTX) Gangneung Line is the high-speed train which runs at a maximum speed of 250 km/h. It takes two hours from Seoul station to Gangneung and an hour and half from Cheongnyangni station to Gangneung.

The fare is ₩27,600 from the Seoul station and ₩26,000 from the Cheongnyangni station. Tickets can be purchased a month in advance, from 07:00 to 20 minutes before the departure of the train, at the station or through KorailTalk (Mobile Application) or via the (official website.)

By bus
Here you can find the main tourist information centre (TIC). Also the international airport of Incheon can be acceded by an "Airport Limousine" from this bus terminal. That bus will take four hours, stopping by the small Gimpo Airport on the way. Cost ₩30,000.

Get around
Downtown Gangneung is not very big. One can cross downtown on foot in 15 minutes. Getting to other popular areas will take less than 15 minutes by taxi from downtown. Most streets in Gangneung have names and signs.

By bus
The public bus system is good. Most signs on the buses have English. Fare is a flat ₩1,300 for city routes when you pay cash. Transportation card holders will receive a 10% discount from the regular fares. Transportation card holders can transfer between buses and a regular bus and an express city bus once for free. If you wish to transfer to a different bus, make sure to tag your transportation card at the transportation card terminal located near the front door or the rear door. You must transfer to a different bus within 40 minutes to avoid being charged an additional fare. There are two different types of transportation cards: prepaid and post-paid. Prepaid transportation cards can be purchased at a designated card sales (charging) shops with a payment in cash, while postpaid transportation cards refer to credit or debit cards issued by credit card companies or banks that have a transportation card function.

By taxi
Taxis in Gangneung are considered an affordable and convenient means of transportation. You can catch a taxi anywhere in Gangneung on the streets. All of the taxis charge the fare based on a metering system, with additional charges imposed upon the base fare of ₩3,800 according to the distance of travel. Taxi drivers will accept payment in cash or by credit card.

Do

 * Surfing, Geumjin Beach, When you take a look at the blue sea of Gangneung and the moderately high waves, you will automatically think of surfing. People in their 20s and 30s are now visiting Geumjin Beach for a surfing experience. There are clubs and numerous travel agencies that rent out surfboards and provide surfing lessons for beginners, so there is no need to worry even if you are new to surfing.
 * Scuba diving, Sageunjin Beach of Gangneung is rising in fame as a hotspot for scuba diving in Korea. With assistance from a team of professional instructors, even first-timers and beginners can have a fun scuba diving experience in the clean sea surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
 * Kiteboarding, Songjeong Beach, Kiteboarding, which will make you as though you are running across the blue sky as you glide over the blue sea, has become a popular marine recreational sporting activity. This is why you can see kiteboarding enthusiasts and club members coming here with their own kiteboarding equipment. Songjeong has hosted the Gangneung Kiteboarding Association Korea Cup six times already, which attests to its status as the ideal place for kiteboarding.
 * Surfing, Geumjin Beach, When you take a look at the blue sea of Gangneung and the moderately high waves, you will automatically think of surfing. People in their 20s and 30s are now visiting Geumjin Beach for a surfing experience. There are clubs and numerous travel agencies that rent out surfboards and provide surfing lessons for beginners, so there is no need to worry even if you are new to surfing.
 * Scuba diving, Sageunjin Beach of Gangneung is rising in fame as a hotspot for scuba diving in Korea. With assistance from a team of professional instructors, even first-timers and beginners can have a fun scuba diving experience in the clean sea surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
 * Kiteboarding, Songjeong Beach, Kiteboarding, which will make you as though you are running across the blue sky as you glide over the blue sea, has become a popular marine recreational sporting activity. This is why you can see kiteboarding enthusiasts and club members coming here with their own kiteboarding equipment. Songjeong has hosted the Gangneung Kiteboarding Association Korea Cup six times already, which attests to its status as the ideal place for kiteboarding.
 * Kiteboarding, Songjeong Beach, Kiteboarding, which will make you as though you are running across the blue sky as you glide over the blue sea, has become a popular marine recreational sporting activity. This is why you can see kiteboarding enthusiasts and club members coming here with their own kiteboarding equipment. Songjeong has hosted the Gangneung Kiteboarding Association Korea Cup six times already, which attests to its status as the ideal place for kiteboarding.

Festivals

 * Gyeongpo Cherry blossoms Festival held in the mid-April every year, at the whole areas of Gyeongpodae Pavilion, has become the representative festival of the city. The beautiful flowers bloom along the 4.3-km road of Gyeongpoho Lake, with Gyeongpodae Pavilion in the center. Spring flowers such as cherry blossoms, forsythia and narcissus bloom beautifully, with the old trees spreading their branches and blooming flowers. There are various events including Flower Exhibition and Cultural and Artistic Events around the Gyeonpodae Pavilian.
 * Christmas winter festival, held in every December, and visitors can enjoy Christmas tree lighting ceremony, busking, various making experiences, and winter food. There are stores that offer discounts only to festival visitors, and they are held near Anmok Beach.
 * Gyeongpo Cherry blossoms Festival held in the mid-April every year, at the whole areas of Gyeongpodae Pavilion, has become the representative festival of the city. The beautiful flowers bloom along the 4.3-km road of Gyeongpoho Lake, with Gyeongpodae Pavilion in the center. Spring flowers such as cherry blossoms, forsythia and narcissus bloom beautifully, with the old trees spreading their branches and blooming flowers. There are various events including Flower Exhibition and Cultural and Artistic Events around the Gyeonpodae Pavilian.
 * Christmas winter festival, held in every December, and visitors can enjoy Christmas tree lighting ceremony, busking, various making experiences, and winter food. There are stores that offer discounts only to festival visitors, and they are held near Anmok Beach.
 * Gyeongpo Cherry blossoms Festival held in the mid-April every year, at the whole areas of Gyeongpodae Pavilion, has become the representative festival of the city. The beautiful flowers bloom along the 4.3-km road of Gyeongpoho Lake, with Gyeongpodae Pavilion in the center. Spring flowers such as cherry blossoms, forsythia and narcissus bloom beautifully, with the old trees spreading their branches and blooming flowers. There are various events including Flower Exhibition and Cultural and Artistic Events around the Gyeonpodae Pavilian.
 * Christmas winter festival, held in every December, and visitors can enjoy Christmas tree lighting ceremony, busking, various making experiences, and winter food. There are stores that offer discounts only to festival visitors, and they are held near Anmok Beach.

Buy
There are several market places in Gangneung. Gangneung Jung Ang Market, at the center of the city, is the largest one in the area. Jumunjin Fish Market, at the eponymous harbor, is also very popular with tourists as they can see and buy various types of fish, squid and shellfish.

There are two major supermarkets, Homeplus and E-Mart.

Eat

 * Paul&Mary Burger.jpg

Connect
The area code for Gangneung and the rest of Gangwon province is 033.

Go next
Pyeongchang, the site of the 2018 Winter Olympics, is approximately 30 km west of Gangneung. There are several ski resorts such as Alpensia Ski Resort, where the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2018 Winter Olympics took place, and Yongpyong Ski Resort  which has 31 slopes and 15 different lift facilities.

title: Gangneung


text:
Gangotri

Gangotri is a place of pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, at the headwaters of the mighty Ganges River.

Understand
Gangotri is one of the most visited holy places in India. This Himalayan place is believed to be the spot where Ganga, the Ganges River goddess, touched earth for the first time. It is therefore one of the dham to be covered during the Char Dham Yatra, a Hindu pilgrimage. Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are the four sites of this pilgrimage.

According to mythology, Goddess Ganga, the daughter of heaven, manifested herself in the form of a river, to absolve the sins of King Bhagirath’s predecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. Lord Shiva received her into his matted locks to minimise the immense impact of her fall. She came to be called Bhagirathi at her legendary source.

By plane

 * Jolly Grant, Dehradun - 226 km
 * Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi.

By rail
Railhead : Haridwar, 230 km.

By car
Well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun and Delhi by road.

Important Road Distances :

Dharasu (129 km), Yamunotri (224 km) Mussoorie (247 km), Tehri (172 km)

See

Buy
Ancient coins and wollens

Eat
Only local eating places (dhabas) are available. Non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks are prohibited in Gangotri.

Drink
No alcohol permitted here. Instead, drink plenty of natural mineral water.

Sleep
Many cheap hotels and Ashrams. Money no problem, will even fit if you are broke.

Go next

 * Bhairon Ghati (10 km): Towards Uttarkashi, it is known for the temple of Bhairav Nath, surrounded by thick forests.
 * Dayara Bugyal: (93 km): A breathtakingly beautiful meadow, at a height of 3,048 m above sea level. A motorable road connects Bhatwari (27 km from Uttarkashi) with Raithal village, from where follows a 6 km long trek to Dayara. The famous Sheshnag Temple enroute is an attraction of the trek. From Dayara, one can also trek down to Dodi Tal (30 km). During winters, Dayara provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq km.
 * Dodi Tal (123 km): A sparkling lake at an elevation of 2286 m surrounded by dense forests. The famous Himalayan trout are found in abundance in the lake. Permit for fishing can be obtained from the Divisional Forest Officer, Uttarkashi. A beautiful camping site, a Forest Rest House and a log cabin are seen along the lake.
 * Gaumukh (18 km): The snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the source of the Bhagirathi river. Pilgrims trek up to the sacred spot on foot or on ponies to take a holy dip in the ice-cold water.

 * Gangnani (59 km): Noted for its thermal springs, spectacular views and tranquil surroundings. A small upcoming town - Bhatwari, lying 12 km from Gangnani is worth a visit.
 * Harsil (28 km): In the mountain district of Uttarkashi is the sylvan hamlet (2620 m above sea level), known for scenic landscapes and delicious apples. Sat Tal or seven lakes, nearby (2 km) are a not-to-be-missed attraction.

 * Kedar Tal (18 km): An enchanting lake, 4425 m above sea level against the splendid backdrop of mighty Thalaiyasagar peak. Accessible through a rough mountain trail, it is the base camp for trekking to surrounding peaks. The trek to Kedartal needs a local guide.
 * Maneri (86 km): The dam across the Bhagirathi and a surrounding lake are worth a visit.
 * Nachiketa Tal (131 km): A pleasant trek through lush green forests leads to this peaceful retreat. A small temple along the lake and lovely surroundings are an attraction.
 * Nandavan Tapovan (24 km): An arduous trek along the left of the Gangotri Glacier leads to scenic Nandanvan - the base camp for the Bhagirathi peaks, that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Shivling peak. A trek across the snout of the Gangotri Glacier across the right  leads to Tapovan known for its beautiful meadows that encircle the base of the Shivling peak. There is also a route from Tapovan across the Gangotri glacier to Nandanvan. From Nandanvan, one can trek further along the Kalindi Khal to Badrinath, which is an extremely difficult trek and has to be done with sufficient preparation.
 * Narendranagar (239 km): The new capital of erstwhile Tehri state offers a magnificent view of the Ganga valley of Rishikesh and the plains of Haridwar.
 * Tehri (173 km): Lying at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Bhilangna rivers, is the former capital of Tehri Garhwal principality, the site of a giant hydro project.
 * Uttarkashi (99 km): An important pilgrimage centre, at an elevation of 1,150 m above sea level on the of river Bhagirathi. Some of the important temples worth visiting are - Vishwanath temple, Ekadash Rudra temple, Gyaneshwar temple and Kuteti Devi Temple. Nearby is the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Every year, during the ‘Magh Mela’ (January 14), people visit Uttarkashi to take a holy dip in Bhagirathi along with the image of their village deity.

title: Gangotri


text:
Gangtok

Gangtok is a bustling, friendly hill station, and the capital of the Himalayan state of Sikkim. The name Gangtok is derived from the Tibetan word for 'hillside,' and the city has a population of around 100,000 (2012) being a mixture of indigenous Sikkimese and people of Nepalese and Tibetan ancestry.

Understand
Gangtok is popular place with tourists heading on treks, although the facilities do not reflect the number of international visitors. However, efforts are being made by the government to improve the conditions. Gangtok is one of the cleanest cities in India and is well organised and beautifully maintained.

Gangtok resembles the Bhutanese capital, Thimphu. Mostly devoid of large shops, this place is a nice break away from typical city lives. The city is a fascinating place to spend a few nights, the winding side alleys hide some unexpected gems, and the main street (MG Marg) is pedestrianized and a pleasant place to take a stroll.

The city sleeps by 21:00 mostly, except for a few pubs which are open till 23:00.

The best season to visit Gangtok is Jan-March.

By plane

Bagdogra Airport is farther away, roughly 14 km from Siliguri and 120 km from Gangtok, but offers more flight connections. It is served by direct flights from Kolkata and New Delhi. From the Bagdogra airport you have a number of options to reach Gangtok:

 * Hire a taxi - a lovely highway passing through beautiful scenery, waterfall and mountains will take you there.
 * Pick up a shared taxi or bus from Siliguri Bus Station, located on Hill Cart Road. Around ₹400 for the four hour journey.

By train
The nearest train station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri which has direct connections to New Delhi, Kolkata, and other major cities in India. It is a 10- to 12-hour journey from Kolkata.

Once you arrive in New Jalpaiguri, you can either hire a taxi from the station itself or take an auto-rickshaw to the Siliguri bus stand. From there, you have the option of travelling to Gangtok by state bus, roughly a 5- to 6-hour journey.

By road
The roads in the area are all winding mountain roads in poor condition. The average travel speed between Gangtok and other cities is around 30 km/h.

Shared jeeps connect Gangtok to Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and other mountain locales. Jeeps leave when full and are filled up by priority order so the price is generally fixed.

Jeeps to Namchi, a nearby tourist destination with many holy sites, costs around ₹110 and takes about 3 hours. Jeeps to Kalimpong cost ₹120 and are available from Deorali (or Mainline) Bus Stand, distance of around 80 km and time around 3.5 hours.

Fare of the shared taxis is generally fixed, around ₹400 to Gangtok from Siliguri. Drivers might try to charge high so check for the fare with other taxis before taking one.

By taxi
Tourists are of paramount importance to the economy and so rules have been enacted to prevent them from being cheated. Taxi fares are mostly fixed.

Taxis are the dominant form of transportation due to Gangtok's hilly and steep roads. There are standard charges within the main areas: at least ₹100 for private service and ₹20 for shared. Taxis are available from designated taxi stands.

By road
It may be available from the private taxi stand a few minutes downhill from MG Marg. However, most of these will be shared jeeps that are one-way so it would be prudent to inquire ahead of time.

See
Gangtok provides beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and hills. There are also several viewpoints near the city with views of Kanchenjunga ranges.

Do
A few minutes walk down the hill from Do-Drul Chorten is the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a small but informative museum providing a general introduction of Tibetan Buddhism using authentic artifacts such as thankas and statues. Entrance fee is ₹10. About 5 minutes from the museum is the Gangtok Ropeway (or Damodar Ropeway), a cable car which connects Deorali to a hill above Gangtok. One way or round trip cost is ₹80, with a children's discount.

Buy
Aside from the local handicraft, Sikkim is famous for its fruit processing and tea. Passion fruit squash, alpine cheese, Temi Tea & Maha Gurudev Tea are some of the local products.

Eat
There are many great and cheap places to eat in Gangtok. In fact Gangtok is the best place if you want to try the Sikkimese, Nepali and Bhutanese dishes. Along with that you will also get North Indian, South Indian and vegetarian places, but they are few in number. Most of the restaurants are located near Mg Marg. Moreover, today one can easily use Zomato to know the menu and food options in some of the restaurants, but keep in mind that not all restaurants are listed there.

 * Parivar's, on MG Marg down a short flight of stairs, good food and is popular with locals.
 * Quick Bite, and numerous other sweet shops along MG Marg, serve up everything from samosas to momos.
 * The Roll House, tucked on the side of a stairway between MG Marg and the main market, serves up Veg Momos & hot chapatis (Roll)with various fillings (paneer, egg, veggies). This place is always packed with both tourists and locals.
 * Zongri Cafe (Tibet Road) : Just a five minutes walk from MG Marg, Zongri offers Thai Pad rice, ramen, pizza, burgers and bakery stuff.
 * Happy Town Pizzeria (MG Marg) : Great authentic pizza.
 * Thalung (Mahatma Gandhi Marg, about 3/4 of the walk away from the Tourist Information Center to the far end of the central pedestrian promenade, on the right side). A cultural relic not to be missed, this fast food outlet located in a wooden hut (perhaps the last traditional building surviving in the remodelled central area) serves a rigorous menu consisting of 2 items: beef momos (Tibetan dumplings) and beef noodle soup. The food is devoid of spices and salt. Chili paste, soy sauce and salt are provided as condiments. The building is somewhat skewed and may present safety hazards, but it appears to have survived generations of customers, and the upper floor offers an agreeable view. An antique portrait of Dalai Lama XIV is displayed at front counter. Visit this one before it has been replaced by another McDonald's.
 * The Roll House, tucked on the side of a stairway between MG Marg and the main market, serves up Veg Momos & hot chapatis (Roll)with various fillings (paneer, egg, veggies). This place is always packed with both tourists and locals.
 * Zongri Cafe (Tibet Road) : Just a five minutes walk from MG Marg, Zongri offers Thai Pad rice, ramen, pizza, burgers and bakery stuff.
 * Happy Town Pizzeria (MG Marg) : Great authentic pizza.
 * Thalung (Mahatma Gandhi Marg, about 3/4 of the walk away from the Tourist Information Center to the far end of the central pedestrian promenade, on the right side). A cultural relic not to be missed, this fast food outlet located in a wooden hut (perhaps the last traditional building surviving in the remodelled central area) serves a rigorous menu consisting of 2 items: beef momos (Tibetan dumplings) and beef noodle soup. The food is devoid of spices and salt. Chili paste, soy sauce and salt are provided as condiments. The building is somewhat skewed and may present safety hazards, but it appears to have survived generations of customers, and the upper floor offers an agreeable view. An antique portrait of Dalai Lama XIV is displayed at front counter. Visit this one before it has been replaced by another McDonald's.

Coffee
There are a number of cafes in MG Marg (Road).

Stay safe
Gangtok is generally safe. However, the standard rules of safety like being alert with strangers and not hanging out in deserted places are applicable to everyone.

If you are travelling alone then it is advisable to take a hotel in Gangtok itself and not in a remote area.

The roads in Gangtok are not intact, and sometimes the main highway remains closed due to frequent landslides.

Respect
No plastic bags can be sold or used in Gangtok.

Spitting, littering or smoking in public areas of Sikkim is a punishable offence and can incur a large fine. Streets in Sikkim have bins for garbage and spitting.

Connect
Since the introduction of 4G, the Internet connectivity has tremendously improved. Jio and Airtel provided good internet speed on wireless as well as Broadband. Zongri, Bike & Cafe and Rachna Books provide free WiFi.

By bus
Private and Sikkim Nationalized Transport (SNT) buses are available for intercity travelling. For Tashiding, Yuksom and Pelling, buses depart from 07:00 and 12:30 from SNT bus stop. Hourly services are also available for some places like Jorethang, Namchi, Ravangla and Geyzing.

title: Gangtok


text:
Gangwon

Gangwon (강원, 江原) is a province in the northeastern corner of South Korea, bordering North Korea and having a long coast along the East Sea (Sea of Japan). Remote and off the traditional tourist trail, the region is relatively undeveloped being 82% mountainous and only sparsely populated. The northern border is sealed off by the Korean DMZ, with the Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains and Mount Baekdusan in North Korea close by. The beauty of Gangwondo's four seasons radiates even more against the rich natural environment here, with many leisure activities available each season. During the winter snow falls, the Gangwon-do mountains become a skiing paradise. The town of Pyeongchang was the host city of the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Cities

 * Gangwon is sparsely populated, and many settlements in the list below are better described as large villages or towns rather than large cities.

 * - the capital city of Gangwon-do, with great rivers and lakes.
 * - a port city with routes to Russia and Japan
 * - a large city in the east coast, with many attractions
 * - a famous sunrise spot in Gangneung
 * - fishing village
 * - coastal city famous for caves
 * - a coastal town close to the DMZ and gateway to the Seoraksan National Park
 * - a gateway to Taebaeksan National Park, and was a large mining town,
 * - the largest city in Gangwon-do, and gateway to Chiagsan.
 * - a remote coastal town with an airport, it has become a surfing spot for young people.

 * Hongcheon- a famous rafting spot in Gangneung, the first Mugunghwa Arboretum in Korea.

National parks

 * One of the tourist attractions overseas visitors consider the most memorable is Seoraksan. Outer Seoraksan has fantastic cliffs and big fountains, while the beautiful inner Seoraksan exhibits the highest level of splendor and sensation by displaying various forms and colors that nature can offer during the four seasons. The Seoraksan Mountains have multiple hiking courses, valleys, and cultural artifacts hidden in each valley, and are internationally renowned as a habitat for rare plants and animals. UNESCO designated the region in 1992 as a Biosphere Reserve.
 * is to the south of Seoraksan national park. Odaesan (오대산) (Odae Mountain) is considered one of the most beautiful mountains in South Korea. Odae Mountain is located at the divergence of Baekdu Mountains and Charyeong Mountains across Yeongchanggun, Hongcheon gun and Gangneung city. The name of Odae was given by Jajangyoolsa who was a sainted Buddhist monk during the Silla Dynasty. There are Dongdaesan (Hangul: 동대산, - means the name of small mountain) on the east, Durobong (Hangul: 두로봉, - bong means 'peak of mountain') on the west, Sangwangbong (Hangul: 상왕봉) on the south, Virobong (Hangul: 비로봉) on the north, and Horyeongbong (Hangul: 호령봉) at the center. The park was established in 1970 as a scenic spot of the River Sogum, and then in 1975 as a national park of Korea. The area of the park was extended again in 2011.
 * Centering around Birobong that stands at 1,288 meters above sea level are other peaks up to 1,000 meters. Mt. Chiaksan with its steep cliffs and solemn physical aspects is a sharp contrast to the smooth, feminine Mt. Odaesan. You can find precious elements of the regional cultural heritage such as beautiful valleys, Sinseondae, Guryongso, Seryeom Falls and Sangwonsa Temple. The park changes color as the seasons pass: azalea and royal azalea in spring, thick forest in summer, red maples in autumn and snow in winter.

Counties
As Gangwon is relatively sparsely populated, many locations are better described as counties rather than towns or cities.

 * Counties that border North Korea (The Korean Demilitarized Zone):
 * is a district along a remote part of the DMZ border with North Korea and has many DMZ attractions to see.
 * is another district along the border with a deep connection to the Korean war.
 * - Ski resort and the host city of the 2018 Winter Olympics.
 * — White water rafting and other mountain activities
 * — White water rafting and other mountain activities
 * — White water rafting and other mountain activities

Itineraries

 * Gwandong Palgyeong - 8 Landscapes

Talk
Many parts of the region are remote, and English isn't widely understood there. Traveling in this region is much easier if you can read and speak Korean. Or call the 1330, its travelling Translate Hotline.

By plane
Yangyang International Airport is the main airport. There are flights from Busan's Gimhae International Airport, the south west city of Gwangju and Shanghai in China. Wonju Airport has a daily flight to Jeju island, but nowhere else. Or, fly into Seoul's Incheon International Airport and take a direct bus from there.

By train
Gangwon province is served by four train lines. Saemuel and Mugunghwa trains operate on these lines. After Gyeongang-seon Line was built for the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, KTX trains runs in this region.

 * The Gyeongchun metro line connects Sangbong station in Seoul to Chuncheon city
 * The people who want to go to Gangwon's capital city Chuncheon, can use ITX train which go to Chuncheon city from Seoul. The start station is Yongsan station in Seoul and the final station is Chuncheon station. It takes from Yongsan station to the final station Chuncheon 1 hour 13 min.

 * The Youngdong-seon line terminates at Gangneung city
 * The Joongang-seon line connects Taebaek and Wonju city.
 * The Gyeongang-seon Line is connected directly to the Jongang Line. You can take a KTX train to Pyeongchang or Gangneung at Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station.

By bus
Almost all cities and counties in South Korea have an express bus to the Gangwon province.

Bus companies

 * Seoul Express Bus +82-2-535-4151
 * Dong-Seoul Suburban Bus Terminal +82-2-446-8000
 * Sangbong Suburban Bus Terminal +82-2-435-2129

By car

 * Gyeongchoon Highway: connecting Chuncheon
 * Youngdong Highway: connecting to Gangneung via Wonju and Pyeongchang
 * Joongang Highway: connecting to Wonju via Hongcheon and Hoengseong

By bus
Cities and counties of Gangwon province also have an extensive bus service. Each of city and county have citybus line and intercity bus lines. So you can look around Gangwon comfortably and connect to other regions of South Korea easily.

By taxi
There are plenty of taxis prowling the street of cities and counties. Regular taxi flag drop is ₩1,800 for the first 2 km, then the meter starts ticking at ₩100 for each 169 m.

By train
Despite being on the other side of the country, the Seoul Metro Gyeonggang Line has a segment from Wonju to Gangneung that was built in preparation for the 2018 Winter Olympics. However, it is actually more of a regional rail line, featuring high speed KTX services taking less than an hour to serve the whole route as well as some Mugunghwa trains.

Sunrise
Many Koreans enjoy seeing sunrise on New Year's Day in the eastern side. Gangawon has many famous spots for the ceremony, including Jeongdongjin and Gyeongpo Beach in Gangneung.

Temples
Thanks to the rocky landscape, many historical Buddhist temples have survived in the region. Woljeongsa in Pyeongchang is famous with its beautiful nine-story stone pagoda. Oseam in Inje has a legend that Buddha helped a kid to survive in heavy snowfall, which inspired a movie and an animated film. Naksansa in Yangyang is located on the slope of Obongsan Mountain, and you can enjoy the sea at Uisangdae Pavilion built on the top of a cliff.

Pavilions
Koreans have been built pavilions to enjoy beautiful landscapes. They sometimes wrote poems that praised the beauty of the nature there, with viewing the sea, the moon and streams. Especially, eight spots along the east seacoast of Korea have been thought to be attractive and enjoyable, and called Gwandong Palgyeong.

DMZ Tours
The DMZ (Demilitarized zone) is the dividing line set up according to the Korean War cease-fire agreement on June 27, 1953. It is a buffer zone to stave off hostilities between North and South. Military activity or equipment is prohibited in strip of land four kilometers wide that runs the width of the entire peninsula and constitutes approximately 0.5 percent of Korean territory North and South. The United Nations Committee of Military Administration manages the Southern half of the DMZ. DMZ tours offer visitors a chance see how time has been at a standstill for the past half century. In Gangwon-do, DMZ tours are available in Cheorwon at the far West of the province, in Yanggu county in the center, and on the East coast at Goseong, about 50 km north of Sokcho.

Outdoor recreation sports
You can go rafting in the Naerincheon region and in the Donggang river in Yeongwol. Good places for hiking, a popular Korean pastime, include the Naerincheon riverside and the region around Wondaegyo. The latter is also a destination for mountain bikers. For those who want to try out being a bird for a while, the Habgangjeong region offers paragliding at Mount Giryong and bungee jumping.

Hot springs
Gangwon-do offers a range of hot springs for you to enjoy, such as Seorak Hanwha Waterpia in Sokcho.

Ski
Gangwon is a famous place for skiing. In Gangwon, there are many mountains and also much snow in winter, so there are many ski resorts in the area. Normally ski resorts open at November and close at March. One of that is Oakvalley ski resort. Oakvalley ski resort is located in Wonju. They manage the shuttle bus from Seoul to the resort.

Eat
Some of the regional dishes are:
 * Sundubu (순두부):  Made from the clean water of the Seoraksan Mountains and salt from the East Sea, Sundubu, Korean-style silken tofu, has a mild, sleek and delicious flavor. A truly gourmet dish. Try Sokcho's Haksapyeong Sundubu Village and the Sinheung's Sundubu Stew Village.
 * Chobap (초밥):  The best chobab, Korean-style sushi, is from fish caught at dawn and eaten right away. Gangwon's East coast offers many fresh fish markets. Once you try fresh raw fish, you will become an ardent fan. Excellent sushi can be found Sokcho's Daepo Port, just past the international ferry terminal, and around Dongmyeong Port.
 * Roasted Hwangtae (황태): Hwangtae is salt-removed Pollack dried in a cool, dry place. Gangwon-do takes pride in the best hwangtae in Korea, properly dried by adequate wind and cold. It is cooked in a hot cauldron with special spices and condiments. It is also called "yellow pollack" for its color after washing and drying the pollack that was salt-dried during winter.
 * Bibimbap (비빔밥) and Sanchaejeongsik (산채정식): Bibimbap is a mouth-watering dish of boiled rice and various greens and vegetables, sometimes meat, and peppered to your taste with spicy sauce which you mix yourself in a large bowl. Sanchaejeongsik (Rice with mixed wild vegetables) is a particular kind of Bibimbap that uses vegetables picked out in the mountains, small restaurants in rural areas of Gangwon-do often have the best Sanchaejeongsik in all of Korean.
 * Hongcheon hwarosutbulgui (홍천 화로숫불고기): This is pork flavored with 20 different types of spices and charcoal broiled. People of all ages love this cuisine for its abundant spices and non-greasy flavor.
 * Chodang Sundubu (초당 순두부): Sundubu stew is made of soft bean curd, famous for its delicate taste and flavored with salt from the East Sea. The sundubu is cooked from early in the morning, so soft it melts in your mouth. Try restaurants in Gangneung's Chodang-dong district.
 * Chuncheon Dalk-galbi (춘천닭갈비): A spicy barbecue chicken dish where the cook grills richly flavored chicken with fresh vegetables on a steel plate in front of the customers. Each restaurant has its secret formula of spices. While the best Chuncheon chicken can be found only in Chuncheon, many restaurants throughout Gangwon-do offer both Chuncheon-style, and their own regional variations of this dish.
 * Chuncheon Makguksu (춘천막국수): Chuncheon Makguksu is made of buckwheat instead of flour and flavored with spicy condiments. It stimulates your appetite and enhances the beauty of your skin. à Usually sold at barbecue spicy chicken restaurants
 * Korean beef (한우):  Korean beef in Gangwon is famous in Korea. Gangwon province is good place to breed the cow for beef because of their environment. There is famous Korean beef festival in September or October in Hoengseong.
 * Sujebi (clear soup with dumplings) (수제비):  Sujebi is a traditional Korean clear soup with dumplings. Potato is a specialty of Gangwon, so there are many potato dishes there, including Potato Sujebi.
 * Sundae squid (오징어순대):  Sundae is a kind of Korean-style sausage. Sokcho is famous for Sundae squid because Sokcho is a port and squid is Sokcho's specialty. The Sundae squid wrapped by squid. When you visit Sokcho or other port cities in Gangwon, you can find many restaurants, which sell Sundae squid so you can try Sundae squid.
 * Cold Raw Fish Soup (물회):  There are many port cities in Gangwon, so sashimi is famous in Gangwon. Cold Raw Fish Soup is sashimi with special soup. Its ingredients include many vegetables, special sauce (normally spicy sauce), and special soup. Normally Korean people enjoy the Cold Raw Fish Soup with a bowl of rice.

Go next

 * The province of Gyeonggi with the national capital of Seoul to the west
 * The cultural sights of North Gyeongsang to the south
 * Take a ferry to from Donghae port to Vladivostok in the far east of Russia

title: Gangwon


text:
Ganish

Ganish is the oldest village of the Hunza Valley and its a treat to watch.

Understand
Ganish is the oldest village in the heart of Hunza, Six kilometres (4 miles) beyond Aliabad, the KKH makes a sweeping S-bend down past Ganish village to the bridge across the Hunza River. Ganish, on fertile flat and above the river, is guarded by an old watchtower and fort. The old craved mosque is also worth a visit.

In the past, all the local children used to learn to swim in the pool in front of the tower. Until this century boys had to swim across the Hunza River to prove that they could escape or attack across the river when necessary. Until the British came in 1891, the men of Hunza used to keep a sword, gun, shield and a loaf of bread (which was replaced every eight days) beside their doors. When the drums beat the alarm from Altit fort, heralding the approach of raiders, each man would grab these things and run for the fort (presumably his family went too).

Like Gilgit, Hunza was an important staging post on the Silk Route and was heavily travelled for thousands of years by traders going back and forth between China, India and the west over the Kilik, Mintaka, Parpik and Khunjerab passes. The most convincing proof of this lies in the inscriptions on the Ganish rock, a sort of Silk Route guest book.

The majority of people living in Ganish follow the Twelver branch of Shia Islam.

See
Ganish is full of rich culture and traditional hospitality, Following are the places to visit in Ganish Village.

 * Ganish Watch Towers
 * Hunza River
 * Sacred Rocks
 * Mosques

title: Ganish


text:
Ganja

Ganja (Azeri: Gəncə) is a city in the Ganja Region of northwestern Azerbaijan.

Understand
Ganja is one of the oldest cities in the Caucasus, and has long been one of the most important in Azerbaijan. Having been subjected to a seemingly endless stream of invading armies, its name has changed repeatedly over the years and is very interesting architecturally. The historical name, Ganja, was restored once again upon Azerbaijan's independence in 1991. With a population of 330,744 (2016), it is the country's second-largest city. Most proudly the city was home to Azerbaijan’s national bard Nizami Gəncəvi (1141–1209).

By plane
The airport is open from 08:00 to 17:00.

By train

Ganja sits on one of the Azerbaijani primary rail lines running east–west through the country. This line now forms part of the Kars–Tbilisi–Baku railway, which directly connects Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan. This railway connects Ganja with Baku as well as with Tbilisi in Georgia, from where passenger trains may in the future eventually connect to Akhalkalaki, and Kars in Turkey.

Check the complete timetable online:
 * Astara – 8 manat.
 * Baku – The daytime ‘express’ (6 manat) departs from Ganja at 15:50 on alternate days arriving in Baku around midnight. The overnight train 37 departs daily from Ganja at 02:56 and arrives in Baku at 08:52. The train has 2nd class kupé (KP) 4-berth sleepers (14.81 manat) and 3rd class platskartny (PL) open-plan sleepers (8.12 manat). The overnight train 38 departs daily from Baku at 20:40 and arrives in Ganja at 02:33, before continuing on to Tbilisi. The train has 2nd class kupé (KP) 4-berth sleepers (14.81 manat) and 3rd class platskartny (PL) open-plan sleepers (8.12 manat).

 * Tbilisi – Train 37 between Tbilisi and Baku departs from Tbilisi at 20.35 and arrives in Ganja at 02:50. Train 38 between Baku and Tbilisi departs from Ganja at 02:55 and arrives in Tbilisi at 08:55. The trains in both directions have 1st class spalny vagon (SV) 2-bed sleepers (40.67 manat), 2nd class kupé (KP) 4-berth sleepers (23.52 manat) and 3rd class platskartny (PL) open-plan sleepers (16.58 manat).

By bus or marshrutka
The city has the following bus stations:

Specific destinations (Sep 2019):
 * Baku – Every 30 min 06:00-19:00. 4½ hr, 9 manat.
 * Daşkəsən – 0.40 manat.
 * Goranboy – Hourly 08:00-18:00, 0.90 manat.
 * Göygöl – Frequently, 25 min.
 * Ismailli – 4.70 manat.
 * Naftalan – 06:00, 08:00, and 12:00. 1-2 manat.
 * Qabala – From Ganja at 08:15, amd 08:30. 5 manat.
 * Qazakh – Regular marshrutkas, 2 hr 10 min, 4 manat. The last one departs at 19:30.
 * Sheki – From Ganja at 13:30 and 16:30, 3 hr, 4 manat. Though they can leave earlier if they fill up.

 * The other option is to take a marshrutka from the Yeni Şemkir Bus Station to Qazakh (Qazax) (2 hr 10 min, 4 manat). While the frequency is unknown one marshrutka departs at 08:00. From the same location in Qazakh (where the service from Ganja terminates) frequent marshrutkas (1 hr 15 min, 1 manat) go to the border crossing at Red Bridge (Krasny Most, Qırmızı Körpü, Tsiteli Khidi), from where you can catch a marshrutka to Tbilisi (1 hr, 5 lari). If you take this route, then a 08:00 depart from Ganja will see you arriving at Station Square in Tbilisi at 13:30.
 * The other option is to take a marshrutka from the Yeni Şemkir Bus Station to Qazakh (Qazax) (2 hr 10 min, 4 manat). While the frequency is unknown one marshrutka departs at 08:00. From the same location in Qazakh (where the service from Ganja terminates) frequent marshrutkas (1 hr 15 min, 1 manat) go to the border crossing at Red Bridge (Krasny Most, Qırmızı Körpü, Tsiteli Khidi), from where you can catch a marshrutka to Tbilisi (1 hr, 5 lari). If you take this route, then a 08:00 depart from Ganja will see you arriving at Station Square in Tbilisi at 13:30.

By taxi
A taxi from/to Naftalan can be had for 25 manat.

From/to Sheki is 50 manat or less, depending on your bargaining skills. Or just use a ride sharing app.

By car
The city is served by the M2, R19, R20, R21, R50 and R51 highways.

On foot
The Old City is best visited on foot.

By bus
There is also public bus service for 0.30 manat available. Routes change pretty often due to ongoing road construction, but #1 and #4 head to the Heydar Aliyev Park, and in the opposite direction #4 and #5 go to the Southern Bus Station (for Göygöl).

By taxi
A taxi can be convenient for the Heydar Aliyev Park, bus stations or Göygöl. Expect to pay 3 manat to/from any of the bus stations from/to the centre. Fares are generally ⅓–½ manat/km.

Old City
The Old City of Ganja was developed starting in the 16th century. Living quarters (məhəllə) from those times make up vast parts of the city to this day.

Sloboda
Sloboda or commonly Vtoroy Chast ( rus: "Вторая часть"), is the part of the city, which started to develop during Russian rule (19th-20th centuries).

Ancient Ganja
Ancient Ganja is the archeological site of the city. This part was destroyed during Mongol invasion in 13th century. After the war, the city of Ganja remained uninhabited till the 16th century.

Casual

 * Go to the "Kolkhoz bazaar" and take to breakfast fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products.
 * Perform a hot day in the shade of plane trees in the Khan Garden, and in the evening, get some cup of tea with old-timers in one of the cosy tea houses (Chaykhana).
 * Invite yourself to Ganjali wedding.
 * Gaming cafés are popular with locals and will only cost 1-2 manat an hour, or you pay for the tea/beer.

Buy
Ganja is well-known as a center of the carpet trade.

Eat
The list of top dishes of Ganjali cuisine (special recipes):
 * Dovğа
 * Xan aşı
 * Yarpaq dolması
 * Göy kətəsi
 * Şorqoğalı
 * Nazik
 * Gəncə paxlavası
 * Gəncə halvası
 * Şəkərbura

Drink
It is recommended to drink bottled water. However, there are a lot of tea houses offering tasty tea.

Connect
Ganja's area code is 22.
 * 🇹🇷 Turkey

Respect
Basic advice will help you to feel comfortable in most common situations.

 * Be familiar with the terms Qeyret, Adat and Namus (code of honour). Unlike Baku, Ganjalis understand causes of globalization and resist it in areas related to family and human behaviour.
 * Never joke about the name of the city also being a word for marijuana.

Ganjalis are very hospitable people, and sometimes you may mistakenly think that it's false hospitality. In fact, some people can overdo it in their desire to help you. It is your responsibility to stop them (and do so with plausible arguments), but be careful because even a hint of rejection will hurt them.

Go next
Ganja is the gateway to Lesser Caucasus region, where you can take few day trips from city:

 * Göygöl – A must visit German town in the suburbs of Ganja, formerly named Khanlar (Xanlar) and Helenendorf, founded by German farmers from Bavarian Swabia.
 * Göygöl National Park – About 20 km from Göygöl and near Toğanalı, this hiking and leisure destination can be found. Its lake was formed during a strong earthquake in 1139.
 * Xoshbulag – Most Ganjalis spend their vacations and summer weekends in this village.
 * Shamkir – Mixed Azeri-German small town. There are cognac and wine plantations.
 * Qazakh – Gateway to Georgia with hot pool in a nearby local village.
 * Gedabay – Home of Ayrum people, turkified descendants of ancient Roman soldiers.
 * Naftalan – A well-known petroleum spa resort, the centre of medical tourism in Azerbaijan.
 * Sheki – A bus ride to the north. A beautiful city in the Caucasus mountains with lots to see and do. It has one of the largest densities of cultural resources and monuments that span 2,700 years of Azerbaijani history.
 * Tbilisi – Many people continue further into Georgia directly from Ganja.

title: Ganja


text:
Ganja Region

Ganja Region is a region in Azerbaijan that includes the Agdash, Agstafa, Barda, Dashkasan, Gadabay, Goranboy, Khanlar, Qazakh, Samukh, Shamkir, and Yevlakh rayons.

Cities

 * – Azerbaijan's second largest city has a long history, some important sites and an interesting and manifold architecture.
 * (Bərdə) – Ancient Capital of Caucasian Albania, located on the Tartar River.
 * – The capital of the homonymous district.
 * – A well-known petroleum spa resort, the centre of medical tourism in Azerbaijan.
 * (Evlakh, Евлах, Yevlax, Jevlach) – It stands on the banks of the Kura River.

Notable towns and villages

 * (Gədəbəy) – Home of Ayrum people, turkified descendants of ancient Roman soldiers.
 * – A must visit German town in the suburbs of Ganja.
 * – Once the majority of Armenians and has its significance where the treaty was signed in 1813.
 * (Xoşbulaq) – Most Ganjalis spend their vacations and summer weekends in this village.
 * – Gateway to Georgia with hot pool in a nearby local village.
 * (Şəmkir) – Another by Germans populated town. There are cognac and wine plantations.

Other destinations

 * – About 20 km further afield from Göygöl and near Toğanalı, this hiking and leisure destination Mount Kapaz can be found. Göygöl lake was formed during a strong earthquake in 1139.
 * – 3,350 m.

Get in
The Ganja Region is along the main route between Baku and Georgia. Hence, all transport options and frequencies for them are valid for the cities (Ganja, Qazakh, etc.) along these bus and train routes. Direct trains exist from Tbilisi and Baku into Ganja with many stops inside the Ganja Region along the way. Also, Ganja is the major bus hub for all destinations in Azerbaijan. Likewise, Qazakh is an important hub. From these larger cities frequent local bus transport exists into all smaller towns and villages.

By plane

 * Gəncə Beynəlxalq Hava Limanı / Ganja International Airport
 * Yevlakh Airport

Get around

 * Azerbaijan has a well developed bus system between the local city and village terminals.
 * Drivers are commonly friendly with backpackers and road trippers, so auto-stop is equally an option to travel within the region.

Stay safe
When hiking in the mountains south or southwest of Ganja close to the border with Nagorno-Karabakh, get the latest information on the Karabakh conflict and whether it is safe to be there.

Go next

 * Sheki Region in the north. Gateway to the Azerbaijani Caucasus.
 * Baku Region in the east. With the Azerbaijani capital Baku, and famous for its mud volcanoes.
 * Southern Azerbaijan in the east.
 * Georgia – There are direct buses and trains to Tbilisi from Baku.

title: Ganja Region


text:
Gannan (prefecture)

Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is in Gansu Province, China.

Cities

 * (Zoi)
 * (Sangqu)
 * (Zhuoni)
 * (Zhouqu)
 * (Sangqu)
 * (Zhuoni)
 * (Zhouqu)
 * (Sangqu)
 * (Zhuoni)
 * (Zhouqu)

Get in
Gannan Xiahe Airport

title: Gannan (prefecture)


text:
Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule is in South Konkan.

Understand
Ganapatipule is a beautiful beach along the Konkan Coast, that attracts peace-seekers, beach lovers, and pilgrims alike. The temple of Swayambhu ("self-originated") Ganesh is much frequented by thousands every year. The God is considered to be the Paschim Dwardevta (Western Sentinel God of India), and those who visit Ganapatipule, make it a point to pay their respects to the deity. Aside from its clean beach and clear waters, Ganapatipule is rich in flora, including mangroves and coconut palms, with many trails to explore, that lead from the beach.

By Train
The nearest railway station is Ratnagiri on the Konkan Railway line. Ganpatipule is about 18 km from here.

By Road
There are private buses as well as MSRTC (ST Bus) going to Ganpatipule. You can also drive to this place by car. It is about 340km from Pune. Take NH4 south from Pune until Umbraj (30km after Satara). From here turn right from the under the flyover in Umbraj towards Patan/Koynanagar. Cross the Western ghats (about 90km) towards Chiplun. From Chiplun take NH17 highway towards Goa. At Nivli Phata, leave the highway and take internal road to Ganpatipule. It takes at least 7 hours depending on traffic.

See
Ganpati Temple, on the Ganapatipule beach itself is the primary attraction in Ganapatipule that draws thousands of pilgrims every year to this village. Ganapatipule with a series of pristine beaches apart from the Ganapatipule beach itself makes Ganapatipule an ideal holiday destination for a beach lover. The twin beaches of Aare - Ware and The Malgund beach flanks either sides of the Ganapatipule beach. There are many other attraction apart from the beaches and the Ganapati temple in Ganapatipule.

Malgund at a distance of 2 km from Ganapatipule is the birthplace of the famous Marathi poet Keshavsut and houses the memorial of the great poet. The Jaigad fort about 15 km from Ganapatipule offer some beautiful sea views and the drive to Jaigad is also a great experience with the sea on one side of the road for most part of the drive. Now in ruins, the bastions of this famous 17th century fort offers spectacular views of the village and the sea. Jaigad fort overlooks the confluence of River Sangameshwar and the Arabian sea.

Prachin Konkan - a life size museum set up by Mr. Sardesai and aided by the government. It is a unique approach to show the old culture and customs from the Konkan area. This set up shows the houses, costumes, ways of livelihood and lifestyle in ancient Konkan.

title: Ganpatipule


text:
Gansbaai

Gansbaai (Goose Bay) is a town in the Overberg region, Western Cape, South Africa. Gansbaai is a quaint little fishing village that bloomed into the Great White Capital of the World. Although there's not much to the town itself, the bountiful landscapes and oceans around gives way to a multitude of outdoor activities and spectacular views to behold.

Understand
Gansbaai developed around a fresh water fountain frequented by wild geese. Later a harbour was built around the fountain and a (now abolished) whaling station was erected in De Kelders, just outside of town.

Two celebrities that lend Gansbaai the name Big 2 Town: the graceful Southern Right Whales and the famous Great White Sharks.

Get in
By road it is 165 km southeast of Cape Town. From Cape Town, follow the N2 in the direction of Hermanus then take the R43 turnoff and follow that route until you come reach Gansbaai, about two hours driving time.

See
At the tip of Danger Point Peninsula is the Danger Point Lighthouse. Just a mile offshore is the Birkenhead Rock, place of doom of the HMS Birkenhead which wrecked in clear view of the coast with the loss of many lives of young English soldiers on their way to fight the Zulus.

The hinterland of Danger-Point-Peninsula is a mosaic of different habitats of the remarkable Cape Floral Kingdom ("fynbos"), ancient indigenous forest, agricultural lands, vineyards, flower-farms and rural communities. Many of these places can be visited. Experienced guides are available to take you to the highest mountain peaks or the deepest riverine gorges. Though there are many nature parks and reserves in the greater area, several animals, among which 6 antelope species, roam freely and the abundance of different bird species is due to a plethora of different landscapes.

The small seaside village of Franskraal has one of the quaintest museums in the country. An original "Strandveld-house" immediately on the sea harbors a special collection about the history of the area.

Baardskeerdersbos can easily be missed when passing this rural hamlet on the road from Gansbaai to Elim; it has only a small number of houses. It has however a magnificent position in the Boesmansriver-valley nestled in between fynbos-clad hills.

The neighboring village of Elim is an old Moravian mission station, established to function as a refuge for Khoi-people (the indigenous inhabitants of the Western Cape) in the 18th century. Visiting Elim is almost a time travel to the 19th century. There is a monumental church, a working water-mill and the only monument to celebrate the abolition of slavery in South Africa.

Do
Gansbaai is world-renowned for great white shark cage diving, with peak times running from June to August.

Eat
Gansbaai is a working fishing town and the local restaurants serve a lot of fresh fish. Gansbaai is also crayfish town, of which there is plenty to enjoy during the crayfish season. Gansbaai is also famous for its Perlemoen (Abelone). It is a threatened shellfish and locally considered as a culinary delight, though some people might argue it is an acquired taste. The neighbouring Victorian village of Stanford has a few very good restaurants.

Drink
There are various places in Main Street in Gansbaai, but one could also have a sunset-drink overlooking the harbour watching the fishing boats come home or on top of the cliffs in De Kelders watching the whales prepare for the night.

Sleep
The Danger Point Peninsula area has strangely enough not developed a vast tourism infrastructure. There are no hotels or resorts and - contrary to Hermanus on the other side of Walker Bay - the total amount of beds in the area is restricted. Yet there are some lodges, guesthouse and nature reserves, spread around Gansbaai, offering comfortable to luxury accommodation.

Go next

 * You can leave the Gansbaai are in easterly direction to Bredasdorp and from there to Swellendam and onwards to the Garden Route or the Western Cape Karoo.
 * More to the east is Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of the African continent and the meeting place of Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean. The Agulhas National Park, stretching from Agulhas in the east to Buffeljagsbaai in the west, is a sanctuary for several rare and endangered species of the Cape Floristic Region and the future home of all the animals that once roamed the Agulhas Plains, "the Serengeti of the Western Cape".
 * The Victorian village of Stanford lies 24 km from Gansbaai in the direction of Hermanus. Located on the Klein River estuary, it is a birding hotspot of fame with over 300 different species.

title: Gansbaai


text:
Gansu

Gansu (甘肃; Gānsù) is a province in the North West region of China. Historically, it is the combination of the two regions, gan (甘) and su (肃). On the Silk Road Gansu marked the end or beginning of China proper depending upon if you were traveling east towards Xi'an or west towards Central Asia and Europe. Gansu's western frontier thus juts right into the borders of the vast steppes of Mongolia, the unforgiving deserts of Xinjiang and the high mountain wastelands of the Tibetan Plateau.

Cities

 * - 2,000 years of history, the capital of Gansu Province
 * - Buddhist grottoes, colossal treasure trove
 * - more Buddhist grottoes plus some ruined cities
 * - Fort at the western end of the Great Wall, nicknamed "Last Fort Under Heaven"
 * - colorful Islamic market town known for its mosques and madrasahs
 * - more Buddhist grottoes, 194 cave shrines, nicknamed "Gallery of Oriental Sculpture"
 * (Sangqu) - a little piece of Tibet for those who don't get to Tibet
 * - former garrison town on the Great Wall of China
 * - near beautiful mountain landforms, and a former garrison headquarters on the Great Wall of China
 * - more Buddhist grottoes, 194 cave shrines, nicknamed "Gallery of Oriental Sculpture"
 * (Sangqu) - a little piece of Tibet for those who don't get to Tibet
 * - former garrison town on the Great Wall of China
 * - near beautiful mountain landforms, and a former garrison headquarters on the Great Wall of China

Other destinations

 * - important site in the Taoist religion
 * - Buddhist statues, botanical gardens
 * - Singing sand amid oases

Understand
Gansu spans the Qinghai-Tibet, Inner Mongolia and loess plateaus in the upper reaches of the Yellow River. The topography is complex and the climate unpredictable. The river valleys in the south belong to a subtropical zone while the north is an arid temperate zone. The province was a centre for East-West cultural exchanges as early as the Han and Tang dynasties. Many people go to Gansu to seek out the roots of world civilization. The Silk Road of the Han and Tang dynasties brings visitors to such places as the grottoes at Dunhuang (a world-class treasure house of art), the Jiayu Pass on the Great Wall of China, Majiishan Grottoes of Tianshui, the Labrang Temple of Xiahe, the Great Buddha Temple at Zhangeye and the bronze sculpture of galloping horse in Wuwei.

Gansu contains some of the largest and most important Tibetan monasteries outside of Tibet. Travel by local bus across high, frigid plateaus to reach them. Ride horses across the plateaus past yurts. Share lunch with Tibetan monks. Share yak butter tea with monks. This part of China bears almost no resemblance to Eastern, Han China. Empty, wild, culturally and ethnically distinct, it offers some of the most exhilarating travel in the world.

Imagine seven hours of travel across a high plateau in a rickety bus dating from 1970. Every few hours, one of your neighbours, swathed in yak wool, stops the bus, dismounts and starts walking to the horizon. You can see for 30 km in all directions, with no towns in sight. It is an empty and riveting land.

Beware of the time of year you travel there. It is cold even in May. In rural areas, which are the most interesting areas are rural, very few housing options are available. Probably, there will be no heat so bring layers or buy a yak wool coat.

Talk
There is a Tibetan region in Southwest Gansu bordering Qinghai province, where both Chinese and Amdo Tibetan are spoken. Local dialects are used across the province, but in general most people can talk standard Chinese.

Get in
The main airport of Gansu is Lanzhou. Others include Dunhuang Airport, Zhangye Ganzhou Airport and Jiayaguan Airport.

Get around
Some train access, but to get to the interesting sites local buses are a necessity. Best to consider it as an adventure, and get ready to use non-verbal communication.

Foreign tourists are supposed to get insurance for bus trips and are normally charged twice the regular fare paid by locals. This occurs in the main parts of Gansu with many tourists, but less so in the outlying areas. CITS sells a policy as well as the Peoples Insurance Company of China.

See

 * Water Curtain Thousand Buddha Caves - located at Luomen, temple built in a cave and a 30 m high Sakyamuni Buddha carved into the cliffside.

Do

 * South Ride horses for days on a trek; hike through the hills; hang out in monasteries. If you don't like the outdoors, this is not the place for you.
 * North Camels are an option for short trips in tourist locations.

Eat
Southern Gansu: Yak meat, butter, yogurt. In places catering to foreigners they often have scrambled eggs with tomatoes. Beware of local rice whisky.

The most famous food not just in Gansu, but all around China is 兰州拉面 (Lánzhōu lāmiàn), noodles: available everywhere in Gansu from ¥2.

Another choice is lamb (羊肉; yángròu).

Drink
Yak milk. Zhangye local spirits.

title: Gansu


text:
Ganzhou

Ganzhou (赣州 Gànzhōu) is a city in Jiangxi Province. It is a significant destination for both tourism and business travel.

Understand
Ganzhou is in the southern part of Jiangxi Province, adjacent to Fujian, Guangdong, and Hunan provinces. It is an important transportation hub and commercial center.

Ganzhou boasts a rich history and is considered an important cultural heritage site. The city is home to numerous historical landmarks such as the ancient city wall, City God Temple (赣州城隍庙), and Longyuan Academy (龙源书院). The Ganzhou region also features stunning natural landscapes, including Chongyi Grand Canyon (崇义大峡谷), Longhu Mountain (龙虎山), and Shaoshan Mountain. Ganzhou has preserved a rich traditional culture, with a focus on Hakka culture (客家文化), including Jiangxi opera, folk arts, and Hakka cuisine (客家美食).

Talk
The dialects in the Ganzhou region mainly consist of Gan dialects, which are further divided into several dialect branches, including:

Gan Southern Dialect (赣南方言): Gan Southern Dialect is the primary dialect in the Ganzhou region and is one of the most widely spoken dialects within Jiangxi Province. There are various local variants of Gan Southern Dialect, as the Ganzhou region covers a large geographical area, resulting in slight dialectal differences.

Hakka Dialect (客家方言): A portion of the population in the Ganzhou region uses Hakka dialect, especially in areas where Hakka communities reside. Hakka dialect is a branch of Chinese and has some differences from Gan Southern Dialect.

Standard Mandarin (标准普通话): Standard Mandarin is also widely used in Ganzhou city and some urban areas, particularly in business and official contexts.

While Gan Southern Dialect is the predominant dialect in the Ganzhou region, the dialects and language culture in the area are relatively complex due to geographical, historical, and demographic diversity, incorporating influences from various Chinese dialects. Different regions and communities may use different dialects or variants.

By plane
China Southern Airlines from Guangzhou, one flight a day.

By train
From Guangzhou, Nanchang, Shenzhen and Shanghai.

By bus
From Guangzhou, Nanchang and Shenzhen.

Get around
Taxi is the easiest, fastest way. The city also has buses and is very easy to walk.

Do
Explore Natural Scenic Spots: Ganzhou boasts beautiful natural landscapes, including Chongyi Grand Canyon (崇义大峡谷), Longhushan Mountain (龙虎山), Shaoshan Mountain, and Nanhe Grand Canyon. You can go hiking, mountain climbing, admire the magnificent scenery, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Visit Historical Landmarks: Ganzhou has many historical sites and cultural attractions such as the Ganzhou Ancient City Wall, City God Temple (赣州城隍庙), and Longyuan Academy. These places can help you learn about the local history and culture.

Taste Local Cuisine: Ganzhou is renowned for its delicious traditional food, including Gan Southern rice noodles (赣南米粉), unique cured meats (腌制肉), lotus leaf rice (荷叶饭), bamboo tube rice (竹筒饭), and more. Don't miss the chance to savor local specialties.

Explore Cultural Museums: Ganzhou has several museums, such as the Jiangxi Ganzhou Revolution Museum (江西赣州大革命博物馆), showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of Ganzhou.

Experience Folk Culture: The Ganzhou region has a rich tradition of folk culture. You can watch local traditional performances, learn crafts and arts, and participate in folk activities.

Appreciate Hakka Culture (客家文化欣赏): Ganzhou also has some Hakka culture influence, and you can learn about the characteristics of Hakka culture, including Hakka folk songs (客家民歌) and Hakka architecture (客家建筑).

Shopping: Ganzhou has various markets and shops where you can purchase local specialties, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

In summary, Ganzhou offers a diverse range of activities, whether you are interested in natural beauty, historical and cultural exploration, local cuisine, or experiencing the rich folk and Hakka cultures.

Buy
Ganzhou tabacco.

Eat
River fish, Chinese country cooking (with lots of chili).

Drink
Tea, snake wine.

title: Ganzhou


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Ganzi (prefecture)

Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, (甘孜藏族自治州), also known as Garzê in Tibetan, is located in western Sichuan Province, China. It is set amongst the scenic high alpine mountains of the province and it is historically part of the Tibetan region of Kham making the area interesting for both culture and landscape. Ganzi (Garze) and Kangding (Dardo) are its largest cities.

Cities

 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March
 * — a famous river crossing in the history of the Long March

Other destinations

 * Yading Nature Reserve
 * Yading Nature Reserve
 * Yading Nature Reserve
 * Yading Nature Reserve

Understand
The region sits on the Eastern edge of the Himalayan plateau. The plateau gradually descends eastward into the plains of China, and the Eastern edges of Ganzi are both geographically and culturally a Tibetan/Chinese mix. The western parts of Ganzi therefore are generally higher in altitude.

The area is characterized by long mountain ridges, with river valleys running between them. In the lower areas (roughly speaking, below 3000 meters), the landscape consists of lush forest, while the upper reaches (roughly above 5000 meters) are comprised of rocky peaks. Most of the region, which sits in between these elevations, consists of alpine grasslands.

Permanent settlement has taken place mostly in the valleys, especially the river valleys, where one sees numerous villages and towns consisting of traditional stone houses in a style that is endemic to the region.

Travel restrictions vary from time to time, but in general, it is more difficult for foreigners to obtain permission travel to the region in the spring because of regular protests during the Tibetan new year. However, there are usually fewer restrictions on travelers in Ganzi than there are in Tibet proper. Visiting this region can therefore be more hassle-free way to experience Tibet and its culture.

Talk
A great many Tibetan dialects are used in this region. Bilingual signage does exist to an extent and some efforts are being officially made to compensate the majority Tibetan population but the region is still far from being truly autonomous. These dialects differ enough from each other and from Lhasa Tibetan as to be mutually unintelligible. There are also some local languages such as Minyak that are considered separate languages and are only distantly, if at all, related to Tibetan. Some ethnic Tibetans speak Mandarin Chinese and/or only the Sichuan dialect of Chinese. Most can switch back and forth to both. Younger people regardless of their ethnicity will speak Mandarin and may also speak English. As a rule cities are dominated by written Chinese and the further you venture out the more likely you will hear and see Tibetan. Local people are very happy to hear you attempt to learn a few words of their local language.

Get in
Bus service leaves from Chengdu. Major hubs are Kangding and Garze/Ganzi. There is an airport serving Kangding that lies about halfway between Kangding and Tagong.

Get around
Most towns have minivan drivers available who will drive you anywhere for the right price. A private van (包车, bāochē) costs something like ¥100 per hour. Shared vans with strangers (pingche) can often be arranged -- sometimes on the spot, sometimes the day before. A van usually seats seven, and if the remaining strangers cannot be found, you may need to either wait around or pick up the tab. If your driver is waiting around for the last passenger, and you are eager to go, offering to (even partially) pay for the seat may resolve the issue.

The roads are of varying quality, and their condition changes with time. They often get damaged by landslides during the rainy season, and some have not been fully restored following the May, 2008 earthquake. As of August, 2012, the national highways (G317 and G318) were being rebuilt and were essentially dirt roads, while the provincial highways were in generally good condition. Hotel managers can be a useful source of information about road conditions.

See

 * Yading Nature Reserve with three Tibetan holy mountains.
 * Mugecuo lake area
 * Gonga Shan Mountain
 * Litang Horse Festival

Do
Most of the major towns in Ganzi have old Tibetan monasteries (gompas), many of which are of historical significance. Of particular importance are the monasteries in Tagong, Litang, Sershu, and Darjay Ghompa (near Ganzi city). Often, though, visiting a local gompa just offers an interesting destination for a local hike.

As a rule, the towns in Ganzi are dusty, and the beautiful areas are the grasslands outside of them. It is therefore more pleasant to stay outside of the towns whenever possible. This is a slow-moving, rural region, and often the most enjoyable activity is just to sit back and take in the scenery.

Hiking and even mountaineering trips are also possible. Enquire with hostels in Tagong and Kangding for information about trekking and mountaineering activities.

There is a horse festival that takes place every August in the prairie outside of Litang, and other similar Tibetan festivals may take place throughout the region in the summer.

Many of the towns have hot springs nearby, though not all of the hot springs are open air.

Eat
The businesses in the towns of Ganzi are dominated by Chinese, while ethnic Tibetans fill out the rural areas. It is therefore quite common to find both Chinese (especially Sichuan) food and Tibetan food in the region.

Drink
Try the Tibetan barley wine if you can find it. Avoid drinking while you are still acclimatizing to the altitude.

Stay safe
Ganzi is quite the hotbed for Tibetan secession activities and you will get noticed very fast by local authorities if you make any visible signs of support. If you are allowed in (if there is no foreigner travel ban in effect) local authorities will most likely not bother you and be quite friendly (as in all of China), provided you follow this advice. You will be putting local people at risk by even discussing Tibetan independence with them in open so best to avoid this topic for their sake.

Altitude sickness is a risk.

Go next
Garzê

title: Ganzi (prefecture)