You should say:
– Where this place is
– How you knew this place
– What it is like
– And explain why you like to visit it
One of my favourite natural places to visit is the serene hill station of Dharamshala,
located in the Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh, near Punjab. This place is nestled in the foothills of the
Dhauladhar mountain range, offering a picturesque
retreat from the hustle and bustle
of everyday life.
I first came to know about Dharamshala through my family. We
often planned summer trips to escape the sweltering
heat of the plains, and Dharamshala was highly recommended by friends and
relatives for its cool climate and stunning
landscapes. My first visit there was during my school summer vacation, and it
left an indelible impression on me.
Dharamshala is a haven
of natural beauty, with lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, and clear
blue skies. The area is also rich in Tibetan culture, with numerous monasteries and temples that add to its
charm. McLeod Ganj, a suburb of
Dharamshala, is particularly famous as the residence of the Dalai Lama. The
crisp, clean air and the peaceful environment make it an ideal place for
relaxation and rejuvenation.
I like to visit Dharamshala because it offers a perfect blend of
natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s a place where I can unwind and enjoy nature’s tranquility. Moreover, it provides
ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, paragliding, and
visiting tea gardens. It is commonly said, “A change of scenery can do wonders,” and Dharamshala is the
perfect example of this idiom. Each visit to this hill station feels like a
breath of fresh air, allowing me to recharge my batteries and return to my
routine with renewed energy.
In general, visiting natural places like Dharamshala has
numerous benefits. It allows us to disconnect from our hectic urban lives and
reconnect with nature. This connection can significantly reduce stress and
improve overall well-being. Additionally, spending time in nature has been
proven to enhance creativity and improve mental health, embodying the phrase “Nature is the best medicine.”
Overall, Dharamshala holds a special place in my heart. Its
natural, combined with its serene and peaceful ambiance, makes it a perfect getaway. Whether it’s the scenic
beauty, the cultural experiences, or simply the joy of being amidst nature,
Dharamshala is a place I always look forward to visiting.
FOLLOW UP QUESTIONS
1 What kind of people like to visit
natural places?
In India, people from various backgrounds enjoy visiting natural
places. Nature enthusiasts, families
looking for a getaway, students seeking a break from their studies, and elderly
individuals appreciating the tranquility are some examples. Professionals
stressed from their hectic work schedules often visit natural places to rejuvenate. Additionally,
health-conscious individuals and photographers who wish to capture the beauty
of nature also frequently visit these places.
2. What are the differences between a
natural place and a city?
Natural places, like forests, mountains, and parks, offer serene environments, fresh air, and
beautiful landscapes. They are usually quiet and provide a sense of peace and
relaxation. Cities, on the other hand, are bustling with activity, noise, and
pollution. Cities have concrete structures, crowded streets, and limited green
spaces, while natural places are abundant
in greenery and wildlife. Cities offer conveniences and amenities, but natural places provide a much-needed escape from
urban life’s chaos.
3 Do you think that going to the park is
the only way to get close to nature?
It may be one of the ways to get close to the nature but
visiting parks is not the only way to get close to nature. In India, people
also visit hill stations, beaches, riversides, and rural areas to experience
nature. Trekking in the mountains, camping in forests, and exploring wildlife
sanctuaries are other ways to immerse oneself in nature. Gardening at home or
maintaining indoor plants can also bring a touch of nature into everyday life.
4 What can people gain from going to
natural places?
Visiting natural places offers numerous benefits. It provides a
break from the daily grind and helps reduce stress and anxiety. The fresh air
and physical activity involved in exploring these places improve physical
health. It also allows people to reconnect with nature, fostering a sense of
peace and mindfulness. Moreover, spending time in nature can spark creativity,
enhance mood, and provide educational experiences about the environment and
conservation.
5 Are there any wild animals in the city?
In Indian cities, while large wild animals are rare, there are
smaller wild animals and birds commonly found. Stray dogs, cats, monkeys, squirrels, and various bird species like
pigeons and crows are frequently seen. In some areas, peacocks, bats, and even
snakes might be spotted. Additionally, urban wildlife like rats and mice are
quite common.
6 Do you think it is a good idea to let
animals stay in local parks for people to see?
While it can be enjoyable for people to see
animals in local parks, it is essential to consider the well-being of the
animals as well as people. Parks can provide a safe habitat for some animals, like birds and squirrels, but introducing
larger or non-native species can disrupt the local ecosystem and pose safety
risks. It is crucial to ensure that animals have their natural habitats
preserved and are not brought into urban parks merely for human entertainment.
Educational and conservation-focused zoos or wildlife sanctuaries are better
suited for people to learn about and appreciate animals responsibly.
USEFUL VOCABULARY
Serene: Calm and
peaceful, like a serene lake at dawn.
Nestled: Snuggled or
settled comfortably, like a cozy cabin nestled in the mountains.
Picturesque: Visually
attractive, like a picturesque village with charming cottages.
Hustle and bustle:
Busy and noisy activity, like the hustle and bustle of a city market.
Sweltering: Extremely
hot, like a sweltering summer day.
Stunning: Extremely
beautiful, like a stunning sunset over the ocean.
Indelible: Impossible
to forget or remove, like making indelible memories on a vacation.
Haven: A safe or
peaceful place, like finding a haven in a quiet garden.
Monasteries: Places
where monks live and pray, like visiting ancient monasteries on a spiritual
journey.
Suburb: A residential
area outside a city, like living in a suburb with good schools and parks.
Rejuvenation: The process
of making something feel fresh or new again, like a weekend getaway for
rejuvenation.
Unwind: To relax and
release tension, like unwinding after a long workday.
Tranquility: The
quality of being calm and peaceful, like enjoying the tranquility of a secluded
beach.
“A change of
scenery can do wonders”: Experiencing a new environment can be very
refreshing and beneficial, like taking a trip to clear your mind.
“Nature is the
best medicine”: Spending time in nature is very healing, like hiking in
the mountains to relieve stress.
Ambiance: The
character or atmosphere of a place, like the cozy ambiance of a candle-lit
restaurant.
Enthusiasts: People
who are very interested in a particular activity or subject, like car
enthusiasts attending an auto show.
Abundant: Available in
large quantities, like an abundant supply of fresh fruit at a farmer’s market.
Amenities: Useful or
enjoyable features or facilities, like having amenities such as a pool and gym
in an apartment complex.
Chaos: Complete
disorder and confusion, like the chaos of a busy train station during rush
hour.
Stray: To wander away
from the correct path, like a stray dog wandering the streets.
Habitat: The natural
environment where an animal or plant lives, like protecting the natural habitat
of endangered species.