Kondapalli

Kondapalli Trek

Kondapalli Trek on the eve of World Diabetes Day

Sunday, November 15th at 6:00AM

Brisk Walk / Trek

Shoes & Backpack with 2litre minimum Water are Compulsary

Note: For Diabetics transportation can be arranged if informed before.

Contact:
Nani: 9440137694
Rahul: 9948794488

Kondapalli Trek

On Sunday 20th Sep2009

Starting Point: Police Control Room (Reach there by 6am)

Come with Energy Food and plenty of Water

Team Leader: Gopi (9966056666)

Trek at Ganginenipalem

Date: 9th August 2009 (Sunday)
Time : 7:55am
Starting Point: Railway Station
Must Have -
* Good Shoes
* Back Pack consisting of 3 Litres of Water
Energy Snack (i.e Lentil Soup Toor or Blackgram or Masoor Dal, Fruits, Nuts and Seeds, Sweet Potato, Curd Rice, Rolled Oats (or) Flattened Rice Atukulu, Whole-wheat Pasta or Chapathi, Atukulu, sprouts)
* Daily Physical Exercise
Route: Catch Bhadhrachlam Road Passenger at 7:55am on Platform No.:8 with Rs.5/- Ticket and board on the last compartment along with the co-trekkers and get down at gangineni. The trek starts from there, out Co-trekker Mr.Ramdas will guide your through.
Contact: Mr.Ramdas 9490877839

The Trekking Pole Advantage

Beginner's are often unsure of the advantages of using trekking poles. In fact, many trekkers never feel the need for poles until they first use them. Few avid hikers, and especially backpackers, leave home without them--and for good reason. Trekking poles help reduce leg strain, help establish pace and help maintain balance.
Reduce Leg Strain

A good beginner set of trekking poles
Trekking poles reduce the stress on your legs and especially your knees. If you have a previous knee injury or are prone to stiff knees, trekking poles can save you from discomfort since they reduce the weight and impact to your knees during a hike or backpacking trip. You will find poles especially helpful during inclines and declines. While hiking uphill, trekking poles give you added strength to push up the hill. Your arms absorb some of the strain to assist your legs when climbing. On downhill trails, you can use trekking poles to reduce the impact on your knee joints as you descend. If you suffer from knee pain, you'll agree that downhill is harder on your knees than uphill. Trekking poles help reduce this strain. By distributing the weight, you are less likely to injure or strain your knees and legs.

Establish Pace
Using trekking poles helps you more readily establish a pace during your hike or backpacking trip. The rhythm of using the poles in coordination with your stride helps your whole body get into a set pace. Your breathing also becomes steady and controlled as you settle into a steady pace. Many people find they can hike much longer times or distances when using trekking poles than they would without them. If you have struggled with walking, hiking, or backpacking at a steady pace, give trekking poles a try. You will subconsciously settle into a pace when you coordinate your poles and stride. If you are new to trekking poles, you might notice a slight adjustment period, but before long you will establish a pace without even thinking about it.

Maintain Balance
Trekking poles help maintain balance for water crossings
Trekking poles give you four points of contact instead of just two. When traversing rugged terrain, water crossings, or slick surfaces, trekking poles help you maintain your balance and prevent slips, trips and falls. If you are hiking a trail with water crossings, poles can help you walk safely across the water without falling. You can use the poles to test the stability of rocks before you step onto them. If you are carrying a backpack, trekking poles are particularly helpful to keep your balance. Your heavy pack can shift your center of weight back, but trekking poles reestablish your center of gravity forward, to a more balanced and comfortable position.

Endless Miscellaneous Uses
Trekking poles can be used for an endless number of additional purposes, including protection from animals, erecting a temporary shelter, hanging clothes or shoes to dry on, fishing pole, and just about anything else you can dream up. When hiking with a dog, you can use trekking poles to gently prod your dog forward if he stops to sniff a little too long. Trekking poles can be used to make sure no critters, like snakes, are hiding under rocks or in a pile of leaves before getting too close.

Get Trekking Poles a Try
Huge selection of styles and prices.
Trekking poles don't have to cost you a fortune. If you are unsure of the benefits of trekking poles, try out a less expensive set before deciding if you want to upgrade your poles. A decent first pair of trekking poles can cost less than Rs.1500. If you decide to upgrade your trekking poles later, you might chose a great set that costs closer to Rs.5000, though you can spend more if you choose to do so. Trekking poles make a great addition to your outdoor gear, whether you are on a day hike or a week long backpacking trip.

Best is the bamboo stick to start with which is in the nature, that costs you nothing.

Signaling Techniques for Wilderness Survival

Few things are more frightening than the possibility of being lost in the wilderness with no means of communication. Whether trapped in a dense forest or barren dessert, it is often difficult for rescue teams to locate people who are lost without some sort of sign. Knowing your options for signaling techniques for wilderness survival may mean the difference between life and death.

Fire
The most common signaling device is fire. Smoke and fire can be seen for miles, making this a highly useful tool. Fire and smoke are also useful in nearly any terrain. This makes lighters and matches a pivotal part of any adventurer's arsenal. To get a fire started, use your surroundings. Use any brush, extra clothing or other flammable materials you can find. At night focus on building three fires either in a triangle or in a row about 25 meters apart. This is an international distress signal. During the day focus more on the smoke. If your car is nearby, remove a tire and light it on fire. The black billowing smoke can be seen very well from a distance, and the fire can last for hours upon hours. If there is no car, try throwing some moist elements onto your fire without squelching it. This will create a lighter smoke but should still attract attention.

Mirrors
When an air rescue has been dispersed, mirrors can be an excellent tool. Consider packing a compact mirror in your gear bag. If you do not have a small mirror and are stranded with your car nearby, break off one of the car mirrors. Once you have a mirror, it is a waiting game. When a low-flying plane flies near, angle the mirror to catch the sunlight and reflect it up toward the cockpit of the plane. Move the mirror around slightly to avoid blinding the pilot. Ideally, this will alert the pilot to your position.

Lights
At night there are few things more telling than a flash of light to let people know where you are If possible, always carry a flashlight with extra batteries. Other signaling devices include flares, tracer gun ammunition and strobe lights. These tools work well when lost at night but can also be used during the day when an airplane approaches. However, flares and ammunition should never be fired directly at a plane.

Messages
One of the most traditional signaling techniques for wilderness survival involves creating large messages that allow a plane to see that you are in danger. Whether in the desert, snow or dense forest it is almost always possible to work your way toward a large empty area where you can make your message. Use colors that contrast with the terrain to spell out S.O.S., or create a geometric shape that is likely to attract attention. Use dark twigs, light brush or extra clothing to create the desired effect. Try to make your message several times bigger than yourself to ensure it is easily seen.

Audio Signals
When a ground rescue is under way or other people may be nearby, it is important to carry a whistle or other audio signaling device such as a gun or bell. In lush forest or when taking cover this can be particularly important. These loud signals can carry much farther than a human voice. These signaling techniques for wilderness survival enable people to find you more quickly with less effort.

A Good Workout Plan to build Muscle

No matter what type of athletic activities you enjoy, chances are you'll perform them better after using a combination of aerobic fitness, flexibility and muscular strength. Building muscular strength doesn't have to involve complicated training plans on expensive equipment, but you will need to pay attention to all of the major muscles groups that include the chest, shoulders, lower back and abdomen. Here's how to get started.

Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1
Things You'll Need: Variety of free weights
Design a total fitness program that includes aerobic exercise, flexibility and muscular strength. Assuming that you are walking or jogging five days a week, devote two to three days on strength training. Strength training can take many different forms. You can build muscle strength using your own body resistance and things you have around the home. It can also mean performing a routine of exercises at the house or with free weights.

Step 2
Divide your body into three general areas and work on one area each day--the upper body and extremities, lower body and extremities and your core (abdominals and lower back). Each session should take between 15 to 30 minutes, or until the area is fatigued. It helps to write the three areas on a calendar so that you don't lose track of what area needs work on a specific day.

Step 3
Start with exercises that use the resistance of your body. Perform three sets of 10 repetitions of push-ups, pull-ups and tricep dips to build strength in your shoulders, chest and arms. Building upper body strength will help when carrying heavy loads in a backpack. If you would like to take your workout into the gym, focus on weight machines or free weights to build strength in the same areas, using more resistance. Increase the weight approximately 10 percent each week and chart your progress in a journal or day planner.

Step 4
Complete three to five sets of 15 to 25 repetitions of sit-ups. Use your body weight as resistance in the beginning. As your abdominal muscles get stronger, try holding a 2 or 4 kg free weight against your chest for more resistance. Alternate abdominal muscle exercises with lower back strengthening exercises. Begin by lying on the floor with your hands clasped behind your neck. Slowly lift your chest off of the floor and hold for 10 seconds. Complete three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions.

Step 5
Climb stairs or a series of short steps to begin strengthening the quadriceps in your legs. Begin by taking one step at at time, then increase it to two or three steps, each stride. Climbing stairs is a great way to build muscular strength and endurance. When you reach the top of the stairs, turn around and walk down, slowly bending your knees. By walking down stairs, you build "negative" muscle strength that is important for many types of outdoor activities like snow skiing and trekking. For more of a challenge, try wearing ankle weights or holding 500g to 2 kg hand weights in each hand.

Step 6
Spend at least 10 minutes cooling down and re-hydrating after each workout. Alternate strength training workout days with aerobic fitness days.

Tips & Warnings
Devote at least three days a week to strength training. Let your body rest at least one day a week.
Be careful not to increase resistance until your body is ready. Avoid securing your feet while doing sit-ups.

Choose a Water Bottle

Carrying an appropriate amount of water when you exercise is a healthy practice that everyone should do. While you could simply purchase bottled water, and never worry about having your own water bottle, this creates unnecessary waste and costs more money. Purchasing a water bottle is a low-impact, inexpensive solution.

Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1
Get the right size. Remember that the main purpose of buying a water bottle is to carry enough water to keep you hydrated during work-outs. If you have a water source nearby, such as in the home or at a gym, the size of the bottle isn't as big of a concern. However, if you're walking, running or hiking where you won't be able to fill your water bottle, you'll want to get a large enough bottle. Decide the size bottle you need based on the length and intensity of your average workout. Water bottles come in a variety of sizes including 1, 2, 5 and 10 Litres.

Step 2
Consider whether you prefer a squeezable water bottle or a rigid bottle. Squeezable bottles are good for activities like running and biking where you might prefer to squeeze the water into your mouth, but they can add a bit of taste to the water. They are durable when it comes to drops and the only worry is a potential puncture. Rigid bottles tend to add less taste to the water; however, they may dent or crack when dropped.

Step 3
Choose the right material. Rigid water bottles come in a number of different materials including aluminum, stainless steel, high density polyethylene (semi-rigid) and copolyester (Tritan). Avoid bottles composed of polycarbonate, which contains the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) i.e the Cool drink pet bottles. Some companies now label their bottles BPA-Free, so there's no mistaking them. Metal bottles are the most durable option but these can transfer the cold temperature of your water to your hand more than plastic bottles.

Step 4
Purchase a bottle that will be easy to carry. Whether you're using a backpack or carrying the bottle by hand, make sure that the shape and size of the water bottle make it convenient to carry.

Step 5
Consider if you'll want to pack the bottle with ice. If so, you'll want to make sure that the neck is large enough to fit ice cubes through. If not, you'll need to use crushed ice or forego ice altogether.

Step 6
Consider the drinking valve. A good, strong valve that securely locks will help prevent any leakage. Make sure the valve is wide enough and provides optimal flow. A bite valve is another option that is easy to get open on-the-fly. However, bite valves may experience leaking issues after time, if they don't include a locking mechanism.

Step 7
Check for any additional details. Having measurements on the side of your water bottle can be a handy way of tracking your water intake and measuring the water for other purposes like campground cooking.

Tips & Warnings
For longer hikes or trips where you'd need to carry a very large water bottle or risk running out of water, consider purchasing a hydration pack. Hydration packs generally carry much more water than bottles (as much as 25 Litre) and are easy to carry and use. Consider purchasing a backpack or belt pack with mesh water bottle holder(s) for easy carrying.

Trek to Cheruvu Madhavaram

Date: 19th July 2009 (Sunday)
Time : 4:30am
Starting Point: Police Control Room
Must Have -
* Good Shoes
* Back Pack consisting of 3 Litres of Water
Energy Snack (i.e Lentil Soup Toor or Blackgram or Masoor Dal, Fruits, Nuts and Seeds, Sweet Potato, Curd Rice, Rolled Oats (or) Flattened Rice Atukulu, Whole-wheat Pasta or Chapathi, Atukulu, sprouts)
* Daily Physical Exercise
Route: BZA - via kondapalli - Cheruvu Madhavaram - Gangineni - BZA

Note: Carry light to walk straight.

Core Members - Trek

A trek for Core members. Met at 4:30am, Police Control Room, Vijayawada. We started at 5am went to goginenipuram via kondapalli there we picked up our local guide and moved towards dongamarla Bhaavi. This route was not much of an experience for our bikes than the route e came back from dongamarla bhaavi to vijayawada via mulapadu.












We started or trek from dongamarla bhaavi, after 2km we found this beautiful place with waterfalls in the rainy season, it was dry not much of rains.












But it is must visit place in heavy rainfall time. There we had our breakfast with the energy foods we bought. we had our breakfast in bio-utensils.












We moved on to the dense forest after 3km, our guide lost the route, so we had to return back. But this trek experience was the best we had until now. The greenary we enjoyed a lot. we decided to come back to explore more of this place.












Route: Vijayawada - via kondapalli - Madhavaram - Dongamarla bhaavi - Duggiralapadu - Dongamarla bhaavi - Vijayawada

7 Reasons to Travel With One Bag

There is a great debate among travelers about how to pack for a trip. Should you pack everything but the kitchen sink so you're sure to have everything you need, or strip down all the superfluous baggage and risk missing something you really wanted? While the debate may never be settled, here are seven reasons (conventional and otherwise) to side with the latter and travel with only one bag.

Cost
Save yourself an extra luggage fee and opt for one well-packed carry-on. Use that extra money for something special you find on your travels.

Convenience
Lighten your load and experience the freedom. Travel (especially getting to the destination) can be cumbersome. Hauling more than one piece of luggage around the transportation is anything but relaxing.

Challenge
Stretch your traveling prowess by packing and journeying light. Packing might not be the most exciting part of your trip, but mastering the art is a fun and creative way to boost your brain power and self-discipline.

See More
Go more places with less stuff. Backpackers see more things if they don't have to worry about transporting a lot of baggage. A single backpack with the essentials will allow you more movement.

Thieves
Make yourself a smaller target for thieves. If you are lugging around several large bags, you become an instant mark for thieves. Keep important items close to you in a small unassuming bag or backpack, and leave all items of great value at home.

Shopping
Pack less, shop more. If you are a shopaholic, the idea of leaving certain items at home can be appealing because it allows you to purchase them on your trip. Coming home with a new dress from a fancy boutique you discovered can be the best reward for not bringing your "little black dress" from home.

Spontaneity
Be ready to go when the opportunity knocks. If you can pack fast and light, then you can be ready to travel at a moment's notice. Knowing how to pack and travel with one bag allows you many more chances to see and explore the world.

Gauging Weather in the Mountains

Weather in the mountains changes fast. The rapid changes in elevation, the valleys and peaks, and even vegetation all create micro climates that can exchange latent heat in surprising ways. Additionally, mountains uplift winds from low-lying plains, which can help create precipitation. Knowing how to gauge changes in weather is a useful tool for any mountain hiker, and when it comes to mountain climbing, it's a skill that might save your life.

Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Clouds
Step 1
Know the basic types of clouds: cumulus, stratus, cirrus and nimbus. Fluffy cumulus clouds form in the lower atmosphere, 6,500 feet to 20,000 feet. Stratus and cirrus clouds are thin and layered, and typically are found above 20,000 feet. They are composed predominantly of ice crystals, which also cause sun dogs and haloing. Nimbus, from the Latin word meaning cloud or rain, describes clouds that are about to burst.
Step 2
Watch for cumulonimbus clouds--large, vertically developed, cumulus clouds with swollen, dark underbellies. Also known as thunderheads, they often bring violent storms. If you see cumulonimbus clouds flocking in from the horizon, and you have yet to reach the summit, it would be wise to turn back.
Step 3
Stay aware of cumulus clouds in general. Even if they are white and fluffy, speckling distant valleys with shadow, pay attention. As cumulus clouds aggregate above mountains and peaks, they could begin to turn darker, and hail could be on the way.
Step 4
Gauge airflow by the direction of cirrus clouds. Typically, cirrus clouds occur in fair weather. High in the atmosphere, and stratified along isotherms and pressure gradients, they mark air currents. This can help you gauge the movement of the weather, and from which direction the weather is approaching.
Step 5
Watch for distant rain. From a distance, rain appears as dark wisps, a veiling and graying of the landscape. If you see cumulus clouds with this appearance, and they are moving toward you, act quickly.

Winds and Pressure Differentials
Step 1
Keep track of the wind. If you're hiking at tree line, observe the movements of deciduous leaves. Low pressure turns leaves over; there is a distinct noise and visual patterning to this effect. When people say they can "smell the rain" coming, this is often low pressure bringing down an accumulation of ozone from the ionization occurring in the clouds. If you are above tree line, watch another hiker's hair. It will rise and fall with lowering pressures.
Step 2
Feel the temperature of the wind. As you climb higher, note the temperature of the wind, its force and frequency in gusts. A cold wind might bring precipitation, especially if it is moving clouds.
Step 3
Be aware of the landscape. High ridges--knife-edge ridges--often batter winds between them. In the heat of the afternoon, winds typically should be rising. If it is cold and the atmosphere is inverted (which could indicate wind), the wind might change direction.
Step 4
Use your surroundings. Northern aspects (mountainsides facing north, typically on the southern side of a valley) will be colder, wetter and populated by more evergreens. Southern aspects (those areas facing south) will be warmer, drier and populated by deciduous and hardwood forests. This means convective currents rise from the southern aspects. Paragliders take advantage of this fact, rising over the north side of a valley and descending from the south.
Step 5
Remember, hail can fall in the mountains, even in summer. When falling rain freezes in flight, hail forms. Hail can be accompanied by thunder and lightning.

Tips & Warnings
Always check local weather sources, on the Internet or radio stations, before heading out. Be humble. Often hikers who get caught in the weather took a risk they could have avoided. Pay attention to your feelings. Most people can learn to gauge weather with time and practice. Trust your gut feelings. The inner ear and sinus cavities can readily detect pressure changes, so "listen" to your body.

Always camp below tree line. Waiting out the weather can be a fun way to spend an afternoon. Remember, it is always better to be late in this world than early in the next.

Guthikonda Bilam

Guthikonda Bilam situated close to Karampudi, 38 km from Narasaraopet Guthikonda caves are located amidst dense forest. The environment here is serene and legend has it that many Rishis meditated here for centuries. The place is also popularly known as Dakshina Kasi. The famous Guthikonda Bilam is still a place of deep mystery attracting the intrepid and curious tourist to explore.

Mulapadu

Mulapadu is a village in the Ibrahimpatnam Mandal of Krishna district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.

Hiking & Camping: Kondapalli

______________________

Sorry to say the trek has been

CANCELLED due to rain

the rocks get slippery, mud gets sticky and the place

for camping and without camp fire at night you know

-----------------------------------

Date: 30th May 2009
Time: 4:30pm
Objective - Hike along rocky trail and grass land, small uphill climbs.
Difficulty - Easy / Moderate
Duration - 1 Night, Start Saturday evening, overnight camp uphill and return by Sunday morning.
Distance - Hiking distance is around 2km
Expense - On your Own
MUST CARRY LUGGAGE: Good Hiking Shoes preferably Boots, Own Water bottles (with water), Lightweight Plate Spoons and Cup, Small / Medium backpack to carry water, food, camping gear, LED torch to get around at night, A sprain relief spray - like Volini / Amrutanjan, Food (fruits, dry fruits), Camera
VERY IMPORTANT: Travel lightweight or you will find it difficult
WHOM TO CONTACT: Mallikarjuna Rao (Trek Leader) 9908871936 (or) vijayawadatrekkers@gmail.com
Organisers: Youth Hostel Association, Vijayawada.
Do’s and don’ts during a trek: Alcohol and Un Parlimentary activities are strictly prohibited
***THIS TREK IS FOR GENTS ONLY***

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Basic Hiking Safety

Hiking offers enjoyable outdoor exercise that is often a meditative, relaxing experience. However, hikers should take caution while out on a trek as dangers are abundant, including lack of preparation, animal encounters and unforeseen natural disasters. Following basic hiking safety guidelines will help prepare hikers for possible trek hazards and outdoor emergencies.

Hiking Preparation
Hiking preparation and execution requires several basic safety standards. Always hike with another person, sign in (and out) at each registry stand, and communicate with friends and family the trek route and hiking plan before heading off on your hike. Once on the trek, do not deviate from the planned route. Carry a cell phone, area maps, compass, flashlight and headlamp with extra batteries, first aid kit, matches, knife, emergency strobe light, food and plenty of water in additional to traditional hiking gear. If hiking during summer season, ensure that you carry that extra bottle of water and Glucose. Some hikers and their dogs wear a bell as well. Always follow all food safety guidelines required for safe hiking and camping. Additionally, invest in a pair of high-quality hiking boots that provide adequate foot and ankle support and ensure that hiking ability appropriately matches the chosen hiking challenge. Know how to build a fire (should it be needed) and follow all local fire regulations. Respect the trek for the duration of the hike. Always bring out what you packed in.

Animals, Vegetation and Terrain
Learn about the natural wildlife and vegetation in the predetermined hiking area. Each park, state and region has an abundance of wildlife. Understand that some plants may be poisonous, flowing streams may not provide safe drinking water and dangerous animal encounters are a possibility. Research about bears, snakes (such as rattlesnakes), insects (like yellow jackets) and vegetation in the area (think poison ivy). Additionally, many hiking treks have dangerous trek terrain--perhaps an icy cliff or swollen river--that may need crossing. A little education before the hike will help reduce risk while on the trek. Be watchful of trek edge bluffs and loose boulders. Learn how to treat a snakebite, back away from a bear, avoid trek hazards and treat drinking water. Consider carrying a local field guide for animal and plant identification.

Weather Conditions
Knowledge of basic cloud formations can help keep hikers aware of impeding weather conditions.
Hiking in specific weather conditions requires a high-level of caution and preparation. Learn about the weather, seasonal risks and temperature conditions before a hike and pack accordingly, such as bringing warm synthetic layers, a rain poncho or wide-brimmed sun hat. Learn about conditions, such as hypothermia, heat stroke and dehydration and follow precautionary measures. Understand that weather can fluctuate while out on the trek. Be prepared to turn around should the skies darken or rain pour. Knowledge of the trek and regional experience will benefit in determining appropriate weather conditions. For example, hiking in Kondapalli would require heat and sun protection in addition to fast food awareness. Execution of appropriate weather safety standards will help keep everyone safe for the duration of the hike.

H&C Gear: Best Camera Lens to Take on a Hike

A photographer's dilemma, you're planning a 10km round trip hike. The destination is an alpine meadow at 10,000 ft. or it's a wildflower season in the Rockies. Along the way, you might also see big horn sheep. Pack weight and room is always at a premium, so you only have room for one lens for your digital SLR. Considering weight, function and quality, which lens can handle all these requirements and help you bring back those poster images?

Alpine Meadow Landscape

Wide angle lens are a perfect selection for the landscape image. Wide angle refers to a lens with a focal length of 35mm or less. Canon, Nikon, Tamron, and Sigma all make excellent wide angle lens. Another type of wide-angle lens is the fisheye lens. The difference between a true wide-angle lens and a fisheye lens refers to the amount of curvature in the final picture.

Close-ups of Wildflowers

The wide-angle lens can work great for sweeping landscapes with wildflowers, but what lens is best to capture the vibrant blues of lupine, red of Indian paintbrush and yellows of coreopsis? A macro lens allows you to closely focus on the flower. The term, "macro" refers to the subject in the picture (in this case, a lupine) which is re-produced in the image as close to life-size as possible.

Wildlife in general

Wildlife photography is probably the most equipment-intensive type of nature photography. A lens with a focal length of at least 200mm is needed to get those up-close and personal views of wild animals. Lens manufacturers also make lens that can vary in focal length. These are called telephoto lens. A long lens allows you to get close-up images of an animal without getting too close. This is particularly important with animals with "teeth and an attitude."

Final Verdict:

A Macro Telephoto Lens

Remember, the goal was one lens for a digital SLR, which would capture sweeping landscapes, close-up wildflowers and great shots of wild animals. You could carry all three lens mentioned, but hiking a summit with 9kgs. of photography equipment will wear on you. Fortunately, lens makers have the perfect lens for the task-a macro telephoto lens with focal lengths ranging from 28mm-200mm all in the same lens. The 28-200mm will allow beautiful close-up images of wildflowers, and at 28mm is wide enough to capture the landscape shot. On the 200mm end of the spectrum, this lens will get you close to wildlife.

Recommends

Tamron: Model No.: A18 (AF18-250mm F/3.5-6.3 Di LD Aspherical [IF] MACRO) mounts on Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony. This lens costs you around 24k to 25k.

Model No.: A20 (AF28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di VC LD Aspherical [IF] MACRO) mounts on Canon and Nikon(NII) only. This lens costs you around 20k to 22k.

Nikon: 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-SVR DX Lens costs you around 34k

Canon: EF-S 18-200mm 1:3.5-5.6 IS costs you around 35k

MVP: Ethipothala Water Falls, Guntur

11 kms downstream, from the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam are the Ethipothala waterfalls, a mountain stream cascading down the hills from a height of 22 meters, the Ethipothala waterfalls are a radiant sight of the power and beauty of nature. The dazzling, azure lagoon formed at the foot of the falls houses a first-rate crocodile breeding center which is open to the public. The 'Chandravanka' stream here plunges from a height of 21.3 meters into a lagoon and flows on through a green valley much frequented by tourists.

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10 Best Energy Foods

Carbohydrates are the primary human energy fuels, generating the glucose that makes work and play possible. With a bit of protein to sustain your endurance and some vitamins and minerals to battle inflammation, minimally processed carbs, which raise your blood sugar slowly and moderately, are the star players in a diet for active people. Sugary foods (candy, cookies, soda, fruit drinks), elevate your energy level briefly but then drop you to new lows as your body attempts to balance its sugar-fired insulin level. High-fat foods slow down digestion and thereby delay access to energy.

Lentil Soup (Toor or Blackgram or Masoor Dal)
To a healthy carbohydrate load, lentils add heaps of fiber and don't cause gas. Kidney beans, black beans and chick peas are also good legume choices and are a great source of cardiovascular-friendly folic acid.

Oranges
Natural sugars, carbohydrates, vitamin C and fiber combine to make oranges both quick and sustaining in their benefit to your energy level and cardiovascular system. Apples are another heart-healthy and cholesterol-lowering fruit, and figs are extremely rich in vitamins.

Blueberries or Regi pallu
Like other fruits and vegetables, blueberries release sugar into your blood slowly and have high fiber content, lowering your cholesterol level and the risk of digestive problems. That same little blueberry contains cancer-preventing antioxidants as well as properties that slow cognitive decline associated with age.

Nuts and Seeds
The energy-boosting carbohydrate and protein loads in nuts and seeds are complemented by hefty amounts of vitamins, amino acids, monounsaturated fats and fiber. The large quantities of fat in nuts and seeds suggest they should be eaten in moderation.

Fish
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish increase your energy level by accelerating the flow of blood that distributes oxygen throughout your body. Cook your fish in olive oil to add an anti-inflammatory benefit.

Sweet Potatoes (Chilakadadumpa)
Sweet potatoes are the fountain-of-youth entry among energy-giving foods, as the vitamin A-fixing properties of the antioxidant beta-carotene are thought to slow the aging process. Sweet potatoes are high in carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Rice Bran (Nuka or Towdu)
Rice bran is packed with carbohydrates, fiber and antioxidants. It also contains minerals that assist in energy during exercise. Use it in equal parts with flour for baking; add it to casseroles or shake a bit of it on cereal.

Low-fat Yogurt (Perugu)
Yogurt's glycogen-replenishing capability and vitamin B-12 provide energy; help prevent fatigue and aid in muscle recovery after exercise.

Rolled Oats (or) Flattened Rice (Atukulu)
Another great glucose stabilizer, rolled oats also aid in digestion, and they contain energy-making vitamin B and immune-strengthening zinc.
Flattened rice (also called beaten rice) is a dehusked rice which is flattened into flat light dry flakes. These flakes of rice swell when added to liquid, whether hot or cold, as they absorb water, milk or any other liquids. The thicknesses of these flakes vary between almost translucently thin (the more expensive varieties) to nearly four times thicker than a normal rice grain.

Whole-wheat (Pasta or Chapathi)
The health perks provided by whole wheat reach far beyond energy production; its high fiber and antioxidant levels reduce the chance of heart disease and diabetes. Compared with other pastas, the whole wheat variety is lower in calories and higher in fiber.

MVP: Coringa, East Godavari

Coringa is a tiny village East Godavari district, in Andhra Pradesh, India. In 1789, a cyclone hit Coringa. Strong storm surge resulting from it killed 20,000. It was hit again in 1839, when, on November 25, another disastrous cyclone slamed India with terrible winds and a giant 40-foot (12 m) storm surge, wiping out the port city of Coringa. 300,000 people died.

River Coringa is the Athreya Branch of Goutami Godavari River flowing in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh.

Geography: Goutami Godavari is the eastern Branch of godavari that splits at Vijjeswaram while Vasista Godavari is the western Branch. Other main branch is Vainateya, which got split at Dowleswaram. Minor Tributories are Tulya, Atreya and Bharadwaja.

Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
It is at a distance of about 15 Km from Kakinada on Kakinada Yanam Road. Coringa Sanctuary, named after a tiny village coringa in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh a part of Godavari Mangroves was declared as a wildlife sanctuary by Govt. of Andhra Pradesh vide G.O.Ms.No - 484, Forests and Rural Development (For.III) Department dated 5-7-1978 was to conserve the mangrove vegetation of the estuary, extending in an area of about 235.Sq.Kms. It is located between 16o-30' to 17o-00' N latitudes and 82o-14' to 82o-23'E longitudes. Mangroves are salt - tolerent forest ecosystems of tropical and sub - tropical intertidal regions of the world.

They normally occur between high waterlevel and near about mean sea level along the sheltered shores, estuaries, tidal creeks, back-waters, lagoons, marshes and mud-flats. Where conditions favour the Mangroves may form extensive and productive forests in the sheltered coastal lines. The mangrovees contain a highly specialised community of plants associated with animal species which are not capable of surviving in any other situations.

Status
Mangrove occur in Andhra Pradesh in estuaries of Krishna and Godavari rivers. Andhra Pradesh has got an area of 582 Sq.KM.of Mangrove forests, accounting for about 9% of local forest area of the State, which amounts to just about 2% of the local geographical area of the State. Even the entire land under mangroves do not contain fully the Mangrove vegetation. The area includes forest of open blanks. Sandy patches and Mud-flats.

The District Wise distribution of mangrove forests are as below:
DISTRICT AREA IN Ha.
East Godavari 33.266
Krishna 16.463
Guntur 8.490
Total 58.219

Importance of Mangroves to Mankind
Mangroves forest act as a barrier against the coastal storms, high velocity winds, and the high tidal waves thus protecting the villages and the agricultural land. Mangroves are a highly productive ecosystem, and supply nutrients to the marine living resources and thus increasing the Fish, Prawn, Crab etc., production.

Mangroves provide shelter to the wildlife particularly as nesting ground for migratory birds. They protect the coast-line from erosion and also it reclaims land from the sea. They build up and extend coastal soil by accumulation and stabilisation of sediments. They provide highly valued products like timber for boat building, Bark for tanning, Seedlings for food etc.

Flora
Thirty Five Plant Species are present in this sanctuary belonging to twenty four families. The Plants species commonly found here are
Species (Telugu Names)
Avicennia officinalis (Nalla Mada)
Avicennia marina (Tella Mada)
Avicennia alba (Vilva Mada)
Excoecaria agallocha (Tilla)
Rhizophora mucronata (Uppu Ponna)
Ceriops decandra (Calhasu)
Bruguiera gymnorrhiza (Oorudu)
Lumnitzera recemosa (Thanduga)
Sonneratia apetala (Kalinga)
Rhizophora conjugata (Ponna)
Aegiceras corniculatum (Guggilam)
Thespesia populneoides (Attakanarai)
Hibiscus tiliaceous (Gangaravi)

Avicennia marina. A officinalis and A alba representing the family Avicenniaceae and Excoecaria agallocha belonging to Euphorobiaceae are dominant. The Mangrove plants exhibit interesting adaptations such as stilt roots as in Rhozophora, Pneumatophores (respiratory roots) in Avicennia and Sonneratia, viviparous seedlings in Rhizophora, Bruguiera and Ceriops. A part from the above tree species shrubs like Dalbegia spinosa (Chillangi), Derris trifoliata (Nallatheega).

Acanthus ilicifolius (Alchi) and Clerodendrum inerme (Pisingi) and herbs like Sesuvium portulacastrum, Suaeda maritima (IIakura), Suaeda monoica (IIakura) and Salicornia brachiatta and grasses like Aeluropus lagopoides. Porteresia coarctate (Yelugaddi) and Myriostachya wightiana (Dabbagaddi) are also found in the sanctuary.

Fauna of Mangroves
The fauna found in mangroves is unique and cannot survive in any other ecological situation. Mangroves provide different varieties of conditions for the habitation of variety of animal population. The crowns of trees including trunk, branches, leaves, flowers and fruits provide niches essentially, to terrestrial fauna like birds, mammals and insects. The soil surface of mangroves provide niche for mudskippers, crabs and molluses. The water in the forest supports a variety of animals like the smooth Indian Otters (Mud skipper, Crab) Jackal Monkeys and Fishing cat. The Sanctuary has an unique distinction of having a 18 Km. long sand spit in the North Eastern side, where the species of Olive Ridley sea turtle ( endangered species) nests during January - March every year.

Apart from these animals, mangroves invariably attract large populations of birds which feed on various organisms occurring in the mangrove forest and in the back water. During the low tide some of the areas are exposed (elevated mud flats having small fishes, shrimps, molluses) attracting avafauna for its feed. Over 120 species of birds are reported and among them the following are the common birds found in the Sanctuary.
Little Egret Cattle Egret
Pied Kingfisher Small Blue KingFisher
Black Capped KingFisher Pond Heron
Reef Heron Grey Heron
Night Heron Little Stint
Sand Piper Red Shrank
Red Wattle-Lapwing Crow Pheasant
Flamingos Sea Gulls
Purple Heron Brahmini Kite
Open Bill Stork Little Cormorant

Conservation Strategies
For purpose of conserving, improving and developing the existing mangroves the following conservation strategies are adopted. Bring mangroves under the network of protected areas. Demarcation of MANGROVES, and Mangrove sanctuaries including the core areas to avoid encroachments.

Taking up various protection measures by intensified watch and ward. Taking up of large scale afforestation of blanks by digging channels at 12.5 mts. apart. The seedlings of 60 cms height. The seedlings grown in the nursery are planted on sloped edges of the channels at 2.0 mts apart staggered through the funds from the World bank Assistance and the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.

Forming Eco - Development Committees for the Conservation of man groves through participatory approach towards conservation by providing welfare measures/alternatives to the villagers living around the sanctuary to reduce the dependency on the mangroves and at the same time enhancing the livelihood of the coastal community. Setting up of Nature Study center to educate the local people regarding the importance of fragile ecosystem and the necessity for it's protection and it's role in the environment.

Accessibility
This sanctuary is easily accessible from Kakinada. East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh, The Kakinada town is well connected by rail and road. The sanctuary can be visited from places viz;Chollangi, Matlapalem or Ramannapalem which are located on Kakinada to Yanam Road about 10 - 15 Km. distance from Kakinada
Visiting Seasons
December to June: By boat and By foot.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses are available at :

Kakinada

Contact: Division Forest Officer (Territorial), Madhavanagar, Kakinada

Phone no: 0884 - 2379381 or Phone no: 0884 - 2367460
Rajahmundry

Contact:Division Forest Officer, Wildlife Management Division,Opp. Govt. Arts College, Rajahmundry-3. Phone no: 0883 - 2448643

Driving directions to Coringa, Yanam, Andhra Pradesh, India
238 km – about 3 hours 38 mins
Vijayawada, Andhra PradeshIndia
1. Head north 5.6 km
2. Turn left at NH 5 139 km
3. Sharp left to stay on NH 5 11.3 km
4. Turn right toward NH 214 24.7 km
5. Turn left at NH 214 42.4 km
6. Turn right 14.2 km
Coringa


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Event: Members Meet

Date: 17May 2009

Time: 4:30pm

Objective: Members Meet regarding formation of the Club

Place: Youth Hostel, Veternary Colony, Vijayawada

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MVP: Belum caves, Kurnool

Belum Caves is the second largest cave in Indian sub-continent and the longest caves in plains of Indian Subcontinent. Belum Caves derives its name from "Bilum" Sanskrit word for caves. In Telugu language, it is called Belum Guhalu. Belum Caves has a length of 3229 meters, making it the second largest natural caves in Indian Subcontinent. Belum Caves have long passages, spacious chambers, fresh water galleries and siphons. The caves reach its deepest point (120 feet from entrance level) at the point known as Patalganaga.
The site: Belum Caves is located at Belum Village in Kolimigundla Mandal of Kurnool District in State of Andhra Pradesh, India. Kolimigundla is situated 3 km from Belum Caves.
Discovery: Even though the Belum Caves were known to the locals, the first records of Caves were mentioned in expedition report of Robert Bruce Foote, in 1884. Thereafter, Belum Caves remained unnoticed for almost a century till a German team headed by Herbert Daniel Gebauer conducted detailed exploration of the caves in 1982 and 1983.
Charges: The tourists are charged an amount of Rs.25.00 for entrance. Foreign Tourists are charged Rs.300.00 per person for entrance.
Accommodation near Belum Caves: APTDC runs Harita Hotel in the vicinity of Belum Caves. The only accommodation type offered is a 32 beds dormitory. The charges for dormitory accommodation is Rs.40.00 per person.

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MVP: Kuntala Water Falls, Adilabad District

Amidst dense forests and sahayadri mountain range, the District of Adilabad is bestowed with nature’s beauty at it’s best. In the mountain range are present many big and small waterfalls, which are fed by monsoons. Most of these waterfalls run through the living habitats of local tribal communities.

Thus giving a feast of ancient and ethnic culture of the tribals amalgamated with Mother Nature; to the eyes of the beholder. Among these Kuntaala and Pochera waterfalls are prominent. About 32Kms from the district centre and 12Kms from the village NerediKonda nestled in dense forests is The Kuntaala Waterfall.
According to the popular and prevalent local belief Kuntaala Waterfall got it’s name after Shakuntala, the beloved wife of King Dushyanth who fell in love with each other and were mesmerized by the scenic beauty of the surroundings. The locals also believe that Shakuntala used to bathe by the waterfall.
River Kanda flowing through the dense forests; at this point comes gushing and falls from a height of 45metres. One has to experience the sight of water splashing down with such a force that water below turn into whirls.

Adjacent to Kuntaala Waterfall, We find the temple of Lord Someshwara Swami, the locals as well as the visitors offer this deity pujas. We reach this temple by passing through a hill slit into two, making a passage. This magnificent nature’s carving is very rare to see. On “Maha ShivaRathri” festival this temple is beautifully decorated and devotees throng the temple from various places of the district.Route:Hyderabad to Nirmal 210 Kms Nirmal to Neredigonda 30 kms Neredigonda to Kuntala Falls 14 kms.

How to reach? 250 kms from Hyderabad, and 45 kms (appoximately) from Nirmal, on National Highway no.7, and is on the way to Adilabad-NAGPUR.

Where to stay? As these waterfalls are located near to village Neredigonda, you will not find any hotels to stay nearby. Ideal place is to stay in Nirmal hotels. You will find lot of good hotels in Nirmal. Hotel Tirumala is a 3 star hotel. Food Facility You will find some small hotels and Dhabas in Neredigonda Village, which is on the highway. You will not enjoy food, but you can take some snacks and cooldrinks before going to waterfalls. Take Food parcels from Nirmal hotels (on the way), if you are going from Hyderabad.

How long it will be from Hyderabad?
Hyderabad to Nirmal 210 Kms 5 hours
Nirmal to Neredigonda 30 kms 45 minutes
Neredigonda to Kuntala 12-15 kms 30 minutes
NOTE: After parking the vehicles at Kuntala waterfalls, You have to go down by walk. There are around 1,200 steps to reach waterfalls. So, it will take another 30 minutes from parking place.

When to visit? Plan your trip in the months of July, August, September and October. So that you can enjoy the full flow of rain water. Above photograph is taken in the month of January.

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MVP: Uppalapadu, Guntur District

Uppalapadu is a village near Guntur City, in the state of Andhra Pradesh in India. It is also a reputed bird. It is one of the only three places in India where Spot-Billed Pelicans nest, while they reside at other places too.

Painted Storks, Spot-billed Pelicans and other birds migrate from various countries such as Siberia, Australia and use the sanctuary. The water tanks in the village are unique as they provide refuge to many species birds including endangered Spot-Billed Pelicans and Painted Storks. The bird population in these tanks used to be around 12,000 previously, however lately only about 7000 birds roost in this dwindling habitat through the year. But some initiatives have taken place such as adding artificial trees, local awareness, proper water supply to the ponds etc. The artificial trees are added in the pond on which the birds can perch in addition to the natural trees. During the visit to the sanctuary on 16 February, 2008, the author could found only about 1500 spotted bill grey pelican(pelecanus philippensis) and a slightly less number of Painted Stork(mycteria leucocephala). Besides this 6 pintail ducks a few cormorant 5 red crested pochard(rhodonesa rufina), common coot, common teal, black-headed ibises, 2 stilts were also sighted.

Spot-billed Pelicans Pelecanus philippensis in Uppalapadu, Andhra Pradesh, India. The ever increasing demand of land both for building and cultivation by the villagers, location of a Zilla Parishad High School within the pelicnary and denudation of Kikar tree( Botanical Name: Prosopis velutina) which is the main stay of the pelican and stork colony, are imminent threat to this sanctuary. Instead of erecting wire mesh artificial-trees the forest department should plant more Prosopis velutina tree in and around this swamp. The ibises and painted stork were found scavenging on the left over rotten fish droppings of pelican along with jungle crow. The main diet being fed to the chicks was both fresh and sea water fish. Some of the fish, particularly LabeoRohita (Carp) and other sea fish, which had dropped from the nests, were fresh and about 0.8 kg in weight. They must have been brought from nearest river and sea which is about 20-30 km away from the site since the pelicans were not found fishing from nearby ponds. A recent visit on 2nd. February 2009 has confirmed that the large wire mesh tree which were provided by the Forest department are being used for nest making by the pelican, although it was not done so in the initial years. This pelicanary has completed ten years operation in 2009. Some pelicans have now opted another pond at Ramchandrapalem which is about 4 km from this site towards Guntur.

Karnataka, Kerala-TN Border are the other two places where these large winged creatures nest. Some nesting grounds of Burma, Malaysia and Vietnam got destroyed or were deserted for various reasons leading to increase in numbers at Uppalapadu. In practice these Pelicans and Painted Storks have found a new tank at Garapadu a little over 4 k.m. from Uppalapadu, for nesting and for the past several months this panchayat tank is being inhabited by about 500 pelicans and 50 painted storks due to shortage of space at Uppalapadu.A Zilla Parishad School is housed in a small island inside the tank on a 2.5 acre site and there is sufficient water around the school, but due to regular visit of human beings, these birds have not nested on some of the trees that are most suitable for their purpose. If the Gram Panchayat agrees and gets an alternative land with the help of Zilla Parishad and District Administration for the School Building, this could become country’s largest nesting ground for Pelicans.At Uppalapadu first half of February is the best time for visitors see young chicks making efforts to fly out and by June-July a new species of birds -- Open Bill Storks and White Ibis will takeover the space and fly out some time in October.

Route: From Guntur City this place is 10 Kms away and nearer to N.T.R Manasa Sarovaram on N.H-5.

* MVP is Must Visit Places (a place worth to Visit)

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