They say the Ice fields Parkway is one
of the most beautiful roads and it is true! The area is really nice with
forest, mountains, glaciers, bighorn sheep, and bears!
TOURISTY FUN
The
‘Rockies’ compose mainly of two National Parks in Alberta, Banff and Jasper which are close to British Columbia
border and are one of the most famous tourist destinations in western Canada.
With its ranges of stunning mountain, stunning campsites, and townships similar
to small European villages, I just could not leave it unexplored.
STUNNING VIEWS
Within
the park, at Lake Louise area, the most awe-inspiring of all is the lake itself.
From a common vantage point across the wide jade colour water rise two bluish
mountains, I composed very clearly the whole view of the landscape in my frame,
as the cloud infused backdrop of the sky completed my desire of capturing the
exhilarating beauty. Nearby from where I stood while taking pictures of the
lake, stands proudly the majestic Chateau Lake Louise. Originally owned and
built by Canadian Pacific Railway back in the late 19th century for the purpose
of enticing travellers to explore western Canada by train. The dynamics of
travelling changed at the advent of highway infrastructure and airplane, so it was
eventually sold. The Chateau offers an ambience of serenity and enigma. Its
massive hallway, the high ceiling, the spiral steps, even its wide planks of
wood used generously throughout allowed me to feel its heritage beginning.
ATHABASCA GLACIER
We
left Banff
and drove along the Ice fields Parkway; one can even drive down from Jasper to
the ice-fields. The views of the mountains, waterfalls, lakes, glaciers and
wildlife along the way were simply stupendous. The main attraction here is the
Athabasca Glacier and the ride in the Brewster Ice Explorer down to the glacier
is a sure highlight as the bus negotiates the steep slope while the commentary
from the driver certainly adds to the suspense! After a few minutes, the bus
reached a clearing and we were allowed to hop off.
The icy wind was the first
thing I felt before I lost my footing on the ice. I walked around and marvelled at the
colours and patterns of the ice. Apparently the water from the glacier is meant to make
you look 10 years younger, so of course I filled up a bottle.
CALGARY
Nestled
at the base of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary kept me really busy during the
day. I even spotted some real cow boys and did lots of shopping like a true
Indian. It gets even better at night with live music venues to quiet bars; you
can find just as many places to relax. That said, for such a pluralistic Region
as Alberta, the Calgary Stampede provides a powerful expression of local pride,
and I would recommend visiting Calgary at this time for a fantastic experience!
FAST FACTS
BEST WAY TO REACH- Fly from Delhi to Calgary via London with British
Airways. A great idea is to book in the World Traveler plus…it’s premium economy
but maximum comfort in a little extra price.You
can carry 2 bags of 23 Kg each even in economy class.
VISA & CURRENCY- Indians require a Canadian visa to visit Toronto.
The currency used is the Canadian dollar which is approx. INR 55.
