Latest news with #KumaonRegiment
India.com
08-07-2025
- India.com
Too Hot To Handle? These Dreamy Hill Spots Near Varanasi Will Save Your Summer!
As one of India's prominent sacred cities which dates back to antiquity Varanasi presents an energetic environment and religious devotion through its unique ghats. Northern summer heat compels citizens and visitors of Varanasi to escape to nearby hill stations for relief. The peaceful hill stations provide perfect relief from hot weather along with magnificent natural sceneries and abundant nature to discover. The following list presents the excellent hill station choices which offer perfect summer destinations from Varanasi. 1. Nainital Nainital stands as one of Uttarakhand's most favored hill station locations at 400 kilometers distance from Varanasi. Naini Lake stands as the main attraction of this destination which offers visitors a cold sanctuary during the summer months. The hill station allows visitors to sail on water, walk through its terrain and to browse shops at Mall Road. The landscape of the Himalayan ranges becomes visible to visitors from two prominent viewpoints named Snow View Point and Tiffin Top. Families alongside individuals who love nature will find Nainital an outstanding choice because of its pleasant climate together with its scenic beauty. 2. Mussoorie Mussoorie is located 450 kilometers from Varanasi as a Himalayan mountain resort located within the Garhwal Himalayan range. This famous hill station receives its title as the 'Queen of Hills' because visitors find its colonial buildings combined with picturesque natural landscapes and quaint shopping areas on Mall Road. The three main landmarks in this destination are Kempty Falls and Gun Hill together with Lal Tibba which delivers incredible perspectives of mountain peaks. People seeking outdoors adventures through paragliding and rock climbing can find excitement in this location alongside those who prefer to relax among the peace of the Company Garden and Camel's Back Road hiking trails. 3. Ranikhet Ranikhet represents an enchanting lesser-known hill station located 480 kilometers from the main town in Uttarakhand. Located in north India the small community earns fame through its apple gardens and pine woodlands alongside Himalayan mountain views. Jhula Devi Temple with Chaubatia Gardens must be at the top of your tourist destination list when visiting this destination. The headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army established at Ranikhet brings both military and picturesque beauty to the town. The location offers complete calmness that attracts people who want to relax within natural surroundings. 4. Auli The destination of Auli serves as a perfect choice for adventure enthusiasts who must travel 500 kilometers to reach Varanasi from this location. Auli has established itself as a ski destination with cable car accessibility whereas cold weather turns it into a magical snowy sight. Alpine meadows at this site along with panoramic peak views involving Nanda Devi and Kamet remain attractive during any season. Adventure seekers consider the Gorson Bugyal trek their favorite because it provides an opportunity to experience pristine untouched nature. Auli maintains a refreshing climate due to its elevated position. 5. Chopta About 600 kilometers distant from Varanasi residents can find the Indian 'Mini Switzerland' in Chopta. Easily overlooked by tourists, this Uttarakhand hamlet exists within Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary while scenic forests together with elevated mountains create its surroundings. From its location in Chopta one can reach Tungnath temple standing as the world's highest Shiva shrine as well as Chandrashila Peak for viewing spectacular sunrise colors. Birdwatchers together with nature enthusiasts find sanctuary in this region because it possesses abundant biodiversity while maintaining serene surroundings. 6. Pithoragarh As the primary entrance point to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Pithoragarh rests at 550 kilometers east of Varanasi. This concealed Uttarakhand destination presents its visitors with a variety of landforms including lush valleys and rough mountain terrains. Visitors should prioritize experiencing Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave as well as viewing the Askot Wildlife Sanctuary and admiring Dharchula which serves as a town along the border with picturesque Himalayan vistas. The excellent position of the hill station enables visitors to discover nearby hiking paths while immersing themselves in the local way of life. 7. Almora Located 520 kilometers distant from Varanasi exists the historic Almora hill station which features vintage appeal. The area showcases natural woodlands of oak and pine which combine with cultural landmarks. The must-see attractions in this location are Bright End Corner where visitors can watch both sunrise and sunset as well as Kasar Devi Temple which is sacred to spiritual seekers. Several museums together with art galleries located in Almora display traditional Kumaoni crafts as well as artifacts. The town offers a peaceful lifestyle together with suitable climate making this an outstanding place for relaxation. Why Choose These Hill Stations? The hill stations present individual traveler experiences that satisfy a wide range of preferences. People with various interests can find something attractive in these travel destinations that suit their individual preferences. Their proximity to Varanasi—most being within a day's drive or short flight—makes them convenient options for weekend getaways or longer vacations. These destinations have exceptional road and air network as well as rail system connectivity which helps travelers access their remote locations easily. The hill stations operate under ecotourism programs to implement sustainable travel rules which maintain their scenic wonders. Tips for Planning Your Trip Tourists should plan their visit to these hill stations during March up to June to experience optimum weather conditions. Complete your packing with light woolens along with comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen and pack rain gear whenever you plan to travel during monsoon season. Tourists have multiple options when it comes to choosing accommodation from basic guesthouses to luxurious resorts throughout these destinations. Be sure to taste popular local foods including kapa and bal mithai as well as gahat ke dal ki puri because they represent the true Uttarakhand flavors. Final Thoughts The amazing hill stations make it possible to leave behind Varanasi's summer heat in the most convenient manner. Tourists will experience distinct combinations of natural beauty and cultural heritage along with recreational entertainment in each destination. Take the adventure that leads you to discover the refreshing hill stations by driving towards Varanasi.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Indian Army dominates cross fitness event at Khaan Quest 2025
The Indian Army Contingent delivered a standout performance, blazing through the course with the fastest timing among all participating nations at Khaan Quest 2025 , a multinational military exercise hosted in Mongolia. From sandbag carries to tyre flips, every soldier gave it their all -- not just to win, but to enjoy the challenge, bond with fellow troops, and carry forward the spirit of joint training. This remarkable feat once again reflected the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to excellence -- be it in operations or on the global stage of military diplomacy . Exercise Khaan Quest 2025 is a multinational military exercise being hosted by Mongolia in Ulaanbaatar from June 14 to June 28. The Indian contingent, comprising 40 personnel, is primarily represented by troops from a battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, along with members from other arms and services. Notably, the team includes one-woman officer and two women soldiers, reflecting the Indian Army's commitment to gender inclusivity. Live Events The exercise marks the 22nd iteration of Khaan Quest, which began as a bilateral event between the United States and Mongolian Armed Forces in 2003 and evolved into a multinational peacekeeping exercise from 2006 onwards. The previous edition was held in Mongolia from July 27 to August 9, 2024. The primary objective of Exercise Khaan Quest is to prepare the Indian Armed Forces for peacekeeping missions in a multinational environment, enhancing interoperability and military readiness under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The training will emphasise high levels of physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills. Participants will engage in practical exercises, including the establishment of static and mobile checkpoints, cordon and search operations, patrolling, evacuation of civilians from hostile areas, counter-improvised explosive device drills, combat first aid, and casualty evacuation. The exercise is expected to facilitate the exchange of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for joint operations among participating nations. It will also promote interoperability, camaraderie, and a spirit of cooperation among the soldiers involved. The Indian Army's participation underscores its growing role in global peacekeeping efforts and its commitment to strengthening ties with international military forces.
The Print
11-06-2025
- General
- The Print
‘Khaan Quest': Indian Army contingent arrives in Mongolia for multinational military exercise
The annual joint military exercise, scheduled to be held from June 14-28, will bring together military forces from around the world to collaborate and enhance their peacekeeping capabilities. The contingent reached Ulaanbaatar for the exercise 'Khaan Quest', the defence ministry said in a statement. New Delhi, Jun 11 (PTI) An Indian Army contingent comprising 40 personnel, mainly troops from a battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, reached Mongolia on Wednesday to take part in a multinational military exercise. The Indian Army contingent is being represented mainly by troops from a battalion of the Kumaon Regiment along with personnel from other services, the ministry said. 'One woman officer and two women soldiers will also form part of the contingent,' it added. The previous edition of this exercise was conducted in Mongolia from July 27 to August 9, 2024. 'The exercise first started as a bilateral event between the US and Mongolian armed forces in 2003. Subsequently, from 2006 onwards, the exercise graduated to a multinational peacekeeping exercise with current year being the 22nd iteration,' the statement said. The aim of the exercise is to also 'prepare the Indian armed forces for peacekeeping missions while operating in a multinational environment, thereby increasing interoperability and military readiness in peace support operations under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter', it said. The exercise will focus on high degree of physical fitness, joint planning and joint tactical drills. Tactical drills to be practised during the exercise will include establishment of static and mobile check points, cordon and search operations, patrolling, evacuation of civilians from hostile area, counter improvised explosive device drills, combat first aid and casualty evacuation, the ministry said. 'Exercise 'Khaan Quest' will enable the participating countries to share their best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures for conduct of joint operations. The exercise will facilitate developing inter-operability, bonhomie and camaraderie between soldiers of the participating countries,' it said. Meanwhile, in a post on X, the Indian Air Force shared photos and videos of a bilateral military exercise that ended on June 10. 'Exercise Tiger Claw 2025, the first ever independent Special Forces exercise, between IAF and USAF, concluded at the Garud Regimental Training Center, yesterday. Conducted at various locations in North India, from 26 May to 10 Jun 25, the exercise objectives included expanding partnership, mutual exchange of best practices in Special Operations, and joint training between the two Air Forces to develop interoperability,' it said. PTI KND KVK KVK This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
Hans India
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Celina Jaitly's heartfelt Mother's Day tribute
On the occasion of Mother's Day, actress Celina Jaitly paid a moving tribute to her late mother, Meeta Jaitly, hailing her as a symbol of strength, resilience, and selfless love. Through a deeply emotional social media post, the 'No Entry' actress shared how her mother's life was a powerful testament to the silent courage of an army wife who not only supported her family through the rigours of military life but also inspired generations of soldiers' wives. Meeta Jaitly, who belonged to the Kumaon Regiment, was the daughter of a soldier and later became the wife of an infantry officer. Despite enduring long periods of separation from her husband due to frequent field postings, she pursued her academic aspirations with exceptional determination. Celina revealed that her mother held a doctorate in psychology and two master's degrees, all while managing the demanding life of an army household. 'She chose a life of sacrifice over personal ambition, setting aside a flourishing career to become a humble schoolteacher—not out of compulsion, but out of love,' Celina wrote, recalling how her mother raised her children with dignity and grace, despite the financial constraints of a soldier's modest salary in the 80s and 90s. In a touching family photo shared alongside the post, Celina described her mother as a 'stunning beauty' who spent her youth waiting for a husband more committed to his uniform than to his home. As a commanding officer's wife, Meeta Jaitly not only held her own through silent battles but became a guiding force for other women in the regiment, encouraging them to pursue education and self-worth. Celina concluded her tribute by calling for recognition of every soldier's wife, stating, 'Even a soldier needs the unshakable foundation of a love so steadfast, it teaches him how to lay down his life for his country without hesitation.' Describing her mother as a 'woman of rare brilliance,' she thanked her for instilling values that remain the heartbeat of their family. With this poignant message, Celina Jaitly has brought attention to the quiet heroism of military wives and the invaluable contributions they make—often without fanfare or recognition.
