On 4th Oct 2009, I, daksh.dad and mom set for Puri by Bhubneshwar express from Kurla Terminus at 8.35 P.M. Next day morning at 5.00 A.M. we arrived at Bhuneshwar railway station. On arriving at the station we came to know that there was a bus strike across the state and hence we were left with only option i.e., puri via train. We took the 6.35 Howrah puri express and by 9.15 A.M. arrived at Puri. The station was quite crowded and we were surrounded by auto-drivers offering to take to good cheap hotel. We decided to give a short and asked the driver to take to a place which should be close to the temple. After searching for almost 35 minutes and various hotels we finally selected hotel VISHAL. Total Damage: INR 2000 for 2 days /2 rooms. Driver Damage: INR 40.00. The hotel was almost 10 minutes walking away from the beach and roughly 1.5 kms from the temple. Check out of the hotels in Orissa is at 7.00 A.M. Our hotel check out was at 8.00 A.M. The rooms were non A/c with TV and attached toilet. After resting for roughly an hour we visited the Jagganth temple. Auto charges INR 40.00 and hand cart driven was for INR 30.00. The temple is in the middle of the city and there is a congested road in front of the temple. Outside the temple on the right side was the shoes counter where we deposited our shoes and mobile phones /cameras since it’s not allowed. At the entrance on the left side is a place to wash ones feet/face. There was this main entrance and on entering the gate there were smaller temples within the boundary. The entrance to the temple was from the left side and there is a prasadam counter with offerings from INR 51.00- 5000.00. There were pujaris surrounding us for offering prayers/-abhisekh, however we didn’t paid any heed. Now we got the glimpse of the temple and were simply amazing. I have visited lot of historical temples, but this was looking so ancient and there was so much of positive vibes. Inside the temple there were already devotees in large numbers and wishing to touch the Lord. There were basically 3 statues of Lord Jagannath, Balram and Rukmani. One needs to just keep on moving since the prayer hall in vertically quite long and there are 2 entrances to be cleared to get close to the Lord. There was separate arrangement for getting close and was basically taking a ticket of INR 40.00/person. However if one doesn’t wants to stand in a queue for the tickets, the pujaris will manage the tickets and will charge INR 50.00/person. We took the darshan and touched the feet of the Jagannatha. Kids below 5 years were not allowed near the Lord since it was too crowded and was basically for protection. Inside the temple wall were various other temples of gods and worth a visit. One can find monkeys who have adopted the temples as their homes and freely roam around and feed on the prasadams offered by the visitors. There was a place inside the temple compound with shops selling prasadams post offering to the Lord. We finished our darshan and nearby took lunch at JOSHI BHOJNALAY. Total Damage: INR 30.00/Person. Thali containing Dal, Rice, Vegetables (2 types) unlimited.
In the evening we went to the beach which was as usual surrounded by many visitors, and there was camel, horse rides for kids. One can find locals selling pearl, necklaces made of pearls. We asked our hotel manager to arrange for visit to CHILKA and SUN TEMPLE. Total Damage: INR 1100.00. In the evening we took lunch at RADHEGOVIND which was roughly 10 minutes walking from our hotel. It was a thali system- DAL, RICE, CHAPPATI, VEGETABLES-2, and KADHI- UNLIMITED. TOTAL DAMAGE: INR 40/- PLATE.
Next day morning at 7.15 a.m. we left for CHILKA LAKE-65 K.M. from Puri. The journey on the way was pleasant with lot of greenery, trees, and small ponds. Finally around 9.15 a.m. we arrived at CHILKA LAKE. There were small shops selling refreshments, coconut vendors etc. There were various packages available i.e., dolphin viewing, crazy crabs and lake water joining the sea –INR 800.00. Keeping the all constant however bird viewing – INR 1200.00. We took the first one and opted for the mechanical boat, however one can also take speed boat by paying INR 100.00 more. The boat was exclusively for our family was had roof cover to protect from sun. The experience was simply marvelous with water all over and green patched of mass in between. This reminded me backwater at Kerala and this was equally beautiful. Finally after boating for an hour we arrived at the spot where after few minutes and patience we saw INDIA DOLPHINS jumping in a group. The trip was worth post watching dolphins and we all were thrilled and excited. Meanwhile there were other boats also which joined the show. Next he took us to a beach in the middle where the lake was meeting the sea and there were few small shanties selling coconut water- INR 10.00, crabs, fishes etc. There were locals selling pearls straight out from the sea and breaking the shell in front of us for INR 20.00 per pearl. There was calm and serenity on the beach with very few peoples visible. Next we proceeded towards SUN temple which was 36.00 k.m. from Puri, and by 3.00 P.M. we arrived at SUN TEMPLE. The car dropped us almost a kilometer away since tourist cars are not allowed. We took an auto and within 10.00 minutes arrived at the entrance of the temple. Total Damage: INR 30.00. There was an entrance fee of INR 5.00/ person and guides were available for INR 110.00. The sun temple is a marvel and perhaps only a few can match its fine art work and the beauty. There were 2 elephants – stones welcoming at the entrance and the temple was behind this structure. There were in total 24 wheels and 7 horses and the statue of Lord Sun on 3 sides. The government has build up beautiful garden around the temple and the carvings on the walls were fantastic. Overall it was magnificent and worth a visit. Just outside the temple are small shops selling articles made of stones, pictures of sun temple etc. we took lunch at a MADWADI BHOJNALAY and proceeded towards PURI. We took the darshan once more and also visited the GUNDICHA TEMPLE which was roughly 10 minutes from the Main temple. At Gundicha, deities are brought for a week during the RATH YATRA.
Next day morning at 7.30 A.M. we set for Bhubaneswar via car TOTAL DAMAGE: INR 900.00. We arrived at DHAULGIRI- 8 K.M. from Bhubaneswar. It was basically a stupa and is a magnificent structure. We then finally arrived at LINGRAJ TEMPLE- in the city. The temple was quite old and within the walls there was more then 100 small temples dedicated to LORD SHIVA. The temple is a must visit and should not be avoided at any cost. Post darshan we visited the MUKTESHWAR and SIDDHESHWAR temples which were roughly 10 minutes away from LINGRAJ TEMPLE.
Finally our driver dropped us at the station and thus our journey came to an end but will remain permanently in our memory. On 8th Oct 2009 we caught the Konark express and reached Dadar on 10th Oct 2009.
Key Take away: Take A/C room since the place is close to sea it’s quite humid, bargain hard for hotel tariffs, don’t pay heed to pujaris.
For Pictures please visit the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Lonavla- Rajmachi
On 26th Sept 2009 I, Amit Bhalerao and Rahul (Amits Friend) set out for Rajmachi. Amit picked me up from Gokuldhan Gate at around 7.05 A.M. and we took the JVLR route to pick up Rohit and roughly at around 7.45 A.M. we left for Rajmachi. We took the Nerul route and moved towards Panvel and moved towards Lonavla after taking the old Pune highway. We moved towards Kondivane and started moving towards Prakruti resort. The road towards this resort was a single lane and was in better shape. We could see majestic mountains on both the sides and could feel the clean breeze. After passing Prakruti farms we proceeded straight and finally reached a dead end and a few houses. Amit parked his car at one of the locals place. Total Damage: INR 50.00. The place was surrounded by mountains but we couldn’t make out which was one was Rajmachi. We took the route which was formed on account of walking and proceeded towards our destination. We started fumbling since the path was not clear and used the help of few locals whom we met on the way. The vegetation was quite thick in the start itself and was thus making our journey tiring right from the start itself. Finally after walking for roughly 20 minutes we arrived at series of small water falls on the way and arrived at Leni- Buddhist cave like structure however of smaller size. There was a big waterfall beside the caves and is favorite hangover for lot of nature lovers. We proceeded towards our ultimate goal and since our start at 10.00 A.M. we were already exhausted and had finished almost 3-4 litres of water. The atmosphere was quite hot and the heat was draining our energy. The climb was becoming difficult and we were quite frequently getting confused over the path. We kept on going based on trial and error and it was almost 12.30 P.M. but there was no sign of the fort. Finally at around 1.00 P.M. we could see the walls of the fort and it looked a good 1.30-2.00 hours of more climb. By this time Amit and Rohit were totally exhausted and I too found it much more difficult then Bheemashankar. We all decided to leave the journey over there since it was almost 3 hours climb and we still were now-where near the summit. We had exhausted our water stock and we had to return the same day too. We started our journey down and while coming down we were pretty fast. However we lost our path and didn’t knew what to do?? We simply started following whatever path came and were ending up nowhere. The idea came of walking up the stream since we had left Leni much above and somehow wanted to reach there. Even that became difficult since the path was too difficult to climb and everyone was too exhausted. Finally we agreed to move along with the stream straight down. Finally we managed to arrive at a small hut which we had noticed while climbing and thus our journey came to an end.
Key Take Away: Start early morning, take local guide, plenty of water, food, cap.
For pictures visit the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Key Take Away: Start early morning, take local guide, plenty of water, food, cap.
For pictures visit the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Bhavnagar- Palithana
On 18th Sep 09, I Parul and Daksh left for Palithana- near Bhavnagar. We took the Bhavnagar Express from Borivali which left at 10.10 P.M. Next day at 12.00 P.M. we arrived at SONGADH was a small station unlike big stations. On the platform while moving towards Mumbai front, there were autos- Vikram made waiting for the pilgrims arriving. The autos were taking in passenger loads of around 10-12, with both of us seated in the front along with the driver. Palithana was at a distance of 24.00 K.M. from the station. Total Damage: INR 30/ person. There was a straight road outside the station and there were hardly any shops near the station and the market was at roughly 500-600 meters away from the station. The auto immediately took right and then left and moved straight towards Palithana. The surrounding was pictures and there were small mountains surrounding giving a magnificent look. Finally at around 12.30 P.M. we arrived at Palithana—typical small Indian town with shops surrounded on both the sides and the air smelled much like rural India—fantastic. The bus stand was located while entering the town itself and was roughly at a distance of around 3.00 K.M. from Taleti- (base of the mountain). The pilgrims visiting Palithana are Jains- and belong to some samaj and hence stay in the dharmshalas of the sect samaj. Since we were Hindus- we asked the auto-driver to take us to the place which was open to everyone—since as usual I don’t believe in pre-booking. Before arriving at Palithana the tall majestic Shatrunjaya mountain range stands in its grandiose form and gives the entire place the spiritual look and feel. We arrived at Oswal Dharmshala and after checking we managed to get a room: Total Damage: INR 500.00 (for A/c rooms and INR 200 for Non A/c). We checked into the room and were surprised to find the place so clean and spacious that it was better than a hotel room. The room contained the front room, a kitchen and separate toilet and bathroom. There was no TV inside the room and was having 24 hours hot water facility. Inside the campus was a garden in the centre with trees of various species and a temple of Lord Mahavir. There were also rooms available on first floor and in total there would have been at least 200-250 rooms. The place was surprisingly clean and calm despite having so many tourists. There was an eating place in the dharmshala and was strictly in accordance to Jain culture- no onion, garlic etc and with strict timings (evening was open only till 7.00 P.M.). Since it was almost 1.20 P.M. we decided to take lunch and some sleep since it was not feasible to go out as it was very hot. The lunch at the place was another experience all together- Personally I never had such simple, good food ever wherever I have travelled so far. Total Damage: INR 40/ per person. In the evening we visited the local market which was at a distance of 1.5 k.m. from our hotel. There were autos and horse cart to take us to the market. Total Damage- Auto: INR 20.00. The market was in the form of shops on both the sides selling ladies dresses, kids dresses with local touch in the form of designs etc. the place has hardly few good restaurants i.e., Red Rose Restaurant. However the place had road side eateries selling dosa, Chinese, pav bhaji etc. we decided to eat at Bhojnalay – as advised by the locals and best for those looking for simple, non spicy food. The place had plate facility with dal, 2 vegetable, roti and rice. Total Damage: INR 40.00 / person. The market is open till 10.300-11.00 P.M. and there is also SBI ATM in the market.
Next day morning we started our journey to palithana temples- which was on the top of the mountain, however was not visible from the base. The start of the climb at the foothills was roughly at a walk of around 10-15 minutes from our dharmshala. At the foothills there is a magnificent temple of Lord Mahavir and the whole place was having a religious touch and feel. There are potters who will surround once you reach the base for taking you to the top along with also option for taking your kids. We started at 6.17 A.M. and were already accompanied by hundreds of pilgrims to reach the religious spot. There were proper steps which were built and the place was not having any stalls and hence it was clean. the initial climb was pleasant, however as we kept on climbing started taking toll on Parul- was exhausted since she was on fast previous day and had not eaten anything. The climb was not a straight climb, however was zig-zag and then flat to be covered across 2 range of mountains. After climbing for roughly 500-600 steps we got the magnificent view of the entire Palithana city. On the left side was Shatruganya river and the mountain we were climbing was lush green and the morning atmosphere was amazing. Finally at around 8.29 A.M. and after climbing roughly 3500 steps we arrived at the summit. The experience at the summit could not be described in words and was really like reaching heaven on earth. There were roughly around 900-1000 temples (of varying sizes). After spending roughly 40 minutes and trying to visit maximum temples we started climbing down at 9.18 A.M. and at around 10.40 A.M. we reached the base. The total experience was simply amazing and one really needs to visit the place to experience the feel. We set towards Bhavnagar and after reaching the bus stand at Palithana, caught the bus at 1.00 P.M. and left for Bhavnagar- 55 K.M. Total Damage: INR 62.00. We arrived at Bhavnagar at around 2.15 P.M. and took an auto for local sight-seeing. Total Damage: INR 200.00. We first visited the New Port and were roughly at 4-5 k.m. from the city and while approaching the place we saw mountains of salt and the few migratory birds. The security person denied us to go inside since the place was a restricted area for civilians. Our next destination was the old port area in the city and the approach road was in worst condition and finally we arrived at a private marine ship maker and we saw a new private marine which was built. Our next spot was Ganga Deri- a marble structure of Ganga Devi. The place is in the middle of the city and was in pretty bad situation- it’s used by locals to rest over there from the afternoon heat and there was nothing much to see. Our next spot was clock tower—and then finally we arrived at Thakteshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The place was in pretty bad situation since it was used by as usual locals for resting from afternoon heat. We arrived at Bhavnagar station- only station in India to have female coolies. As such there was nothing interesting in Bhavnagar to see.
Thus our amazing journey came to an end.
Key Take Away: Start the climb in early morning, spend some quality time at the top, beware of the horse cart drivers trying to sell your horses metallic strip.
For pictures visit the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Next day morning we started our journey to palithana temples- which was on the top of the mountain, however was not visible from the base. The start of the climb at the foothills was roughly at a walk of around 10-15 minutes from our dharmshala. At the foothills there is a magnificent temple of Lord Mahavir and the whole place was having a religious touch and feel. There are potters who will surround once you reach the base for taking you to the top along with also option for taking your kids. We started at 6.17 A.M. and were already accompanied by hundreds of pilgrims to reach the religious spot. There were proper steps which were built and the place was not having any stalls and hence it was clean. the initial climb was pleasant, however as we kept on climbing started taking toll on Parul- was exhausted since she was on fast previous day and had not eaten anything. The climb was not a straight climb, however was zig-zag and then flat to be covered across 2 range of mountains. After climbing for roughly 500-600 steps we got the magnificent view of the entire Palithana city. On the left side was Shatruganya river and the mountain we were climbing was lush green and the morning atmosphere was amazing. Finally at around 8.29 A.M. and after climbing roughly 3500 steps we arrived at the summit. The experience at the summit could not be described in words and was really like reaching heaven on earth. There were roughly around 900-1000 temples (of varying sizes). After spending roughly 40 minutes and trying to visit maximum temples we started climbing down at 9.18 A.M. and at around 10.40 A.M. we reached the base. The total experience was simply amazing and one really needs to visit the place to experience the feel. We set towards Bhavnagar and after reaching the bus stand at Palithana, caught the bus at 1.00 P.M. and left for Bhavnagar- 55 K.M. Total Damage: INR 62.00. We arrived at Bhavnagar at around 2.15 P.M. and took an auto for local sight-seeing. Total Damage: INR 200.00. We first visited the New Port and were roughly at 4-5 k.m. from the city and while approaching the place we saw mountains of salt and the few migratory birds. The security person denied us to go inside since the place was a restricted area for civilians. Our next destination was the old port area in the city and the approach road was in worst condition and finally we arrived at a private marine ship maker and we saw a new private marine which was built. Our next spot was Ganga Deri- a marble structure of Ganga Devi. The place is in the middle of the city and was in pretty bad situation- it’s used by locals to rest over there from the afternoon heat and there was nothing much to see. Our next spot was clock tower—and then finally we arrived at Thakteshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The place was in pretty bad situation since it was used by as usual locals for resting from afternoon heat. We arrived at Bhavnagar station- only station in India to have female coolies. As such there was nothing interesting in Bhavnagar to see.
Thus our amazing journey came to an end.
Key Take Away: Start the climb in early morning, spend some quality time at the top, beware of the horse cart drivers trying to sell your horses metallic strip.
For pictures visit the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Lonavla- Lohghadh
On 29th Aug 2009 I, arunabha, ashish negi and his friend Sameer set for Lohgadh. After taking the pune expressway we arrived near Lonavla, and took the left turn and after passing through Lonavla market proceeded straight and joined the expressway again. After crossing the toll, we went straight and took right turn and proceeded towards Malavali. There is a crossing near the Malavli railway station and finally reached the Malavali village. The village was quite small with hardly 20-30 families and few small shops selling tea/biscuits/water bottles etc. We parked our car in the market and proceeded towards Lohgadh. There is a clear path towards which takes one to the fort and immediately near the village was Bhaje Caves. We however decided to first reach lohgadh. The walk was proving to be tiring since it was a steep climb and as we were descending up we could see the entire place- lush with greenery. The road was in pretty bad condition and hence one cannot take his vehicle. After walking for almost 45 minutes we arrived at a place where we could see 2 mountains –one on the right side and the other on the left side. The right one was Lohgadh and the one on the left was Visapur. We proceeded towards Lohgadh and arrived at the base of the fort- Lohgadwadi village. We had tea, biscuits before we started the climb. The village is pretty small- hardly 25-30 habitats, with small refreshment huts selling biscuits, tea, cold-drinks, wafers, mineral waters etc. there was a proper steps which took to the top of the mountain and we found monkeys greeting us in the start. We took roughly 20-25 minutes to reach the top, locals can be found selling tea, lemon-water. The scene at the top was amazingly beautiful with utter silence and peace. Immediately on reaching the top, there is a mosque like structure on the left side and small cannon. We walked straight towards the left side and came across a small temple and a tank with water. There was so much of fog that the place turned out to be surprisingly beautiful. We walked straight and came across a lake which contained water and was pretty clear. We kept on walking straight and came to a place called Vinchukata (resembles scorpions fangs). We climbed down and were a bit difficult and came to a place where we actually could go down, but we could see the end of the fort. We walked down and on the way once come across water-fall. We started our climb to Bhaje caves and roughly in 10-15 minutes we arrived at Bhaje caves- there is an entry fee of INR 5.00/ person. The caves are of small sizes and the total number of caves is around 22. However of importance is hardly 3-4 caves, and rest all are of not so importance. The place seems to be more visited by young college couples then by cave lover. We moved towards Karla caves which was on the other side of the road and is 12 k.m. from lonavla. The climb was of 20-25 minutes and finally we arrived at the summit after paying for the entry fee of INR 5.00/person. The caves were of larger size and much better than Bhaje. The caves were cut into the hill and there were several chaityas and viharas. The chaitya over here is the biggest in India and is really beautiful. Just outside the chaitya is Ekvira Devi temple.outside the chaitya there are beautiful carvings of elephants and there is a tall pole like structure resembling ashoka pillar. During rainy reason there was a water fall falling and was looking magnificient. Near the top there were stalls selling tea, water, wafers, eatables etc. there is a small hotel at the base of the climb and a parking lot with a toilet facility. Thus our journey came to an end.
Key Take Away: Carry sufficient stock of water, cap.
For Picyures visit the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Key Take Away: Carry sufficient stock of water, cap.
For Picyures visit the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Nashik
On 7th Aug 09, I, parul and Daksh set out for Nasik, my second trip. Next day morning after visiting trumkeshwar we arrived back at Nasik. We started our local sight seeing in an auto, total damage: INR 600.00. We first arrived at Pandav Leni which was roughly 08.00 k.m. from the city towards Mumbai highway. There are 2 mountains separated by the road and to the left was the Panduv Lena. At the base of the mountain was the Buddha auditorium (Pagoda kind structure) and inside the structure was a huge hall which was having Gautam Buddha’s statue in a sitting position. The place was quite and peace and even the slightest murmur were echoing like anything. Beside this monumental structure was a garden and we started our climb after passing through the garden. The climb was for roughly 20-25 minutes and the place was used in true sense by the college couples. At the summit there is an entrance fee of INR 5.00/ person. The caves are look like’s of Ajanta/Ellora, however of small stature. There were total 20-21 caves, however hardly 3-5 were worth visiting. There was just one eating place at the base and since we were hungry had no choice. We had dosa, uthappa and tea. Our next spot was Jain temple roughly 10 minutes further from this spot. The temple was stunningly situated beside the highway with mountains on all the sides. It was a Jain temple with the statue of Lord Mahavir weighing 10.00 tonnes /10 foot. The temple was amazing built with 2 more floors and the top floor was having lord’s statue in all the directions. The temple provided meals and the food is quite good as suggested by our rickshaw. We proceeded towards other side of Nasik- Chambharleni near Mashrul, roughly 85 km from the city towards Jain temple build on a mountain. The place was having a deserted look and at the base was dharmashala with bathing/staying facility. There were steps to be climbed and after a tiring journey it was quite exhausting. Parul and Daksh stayed in the auto and I decided to climb up the mountain and scaled the top in flat 10.00 minutes. The entire city could be seen from the top and there was temple of Lord Mahavir.
Key Takeways: Bargain hard, avoid night trains while returning from nashik.
Bhandardara-Near Igatpuri
On 1st Aug 09 I, Arunabha and Ashish set out for Bhandaradara in Arun’s car. We took the malshej ghat route and at the shivneri turn, we went straight and finally reached a village where we took left and drove towards bhandardara. It was my second visit, and spend the first day with the local sigh seeing and stayed at room given by the locals. There was no bed, neither TV. Total damage: INR 500.00. Next day morning we set out for Ratangadh fort, which was near the Amruteshwar temple (near Ratanwadi village) supposed to be build by pandavas in one day as told by the locals. On reaching the place Arun parked his car and I negotiated with one of the locals for guiding to the summit. Total damage: INR 175.00. The place is at its best during rainy season and we were simply amazed at the nature’s beauty. Finally we started the climb at 9.00 a.m. and after passing through streams started the trek .The jungle was having thick vegetation and finally at around 11.00 we arrived at the summit. The last stretch of the climb is the most dangerous one since we had to climb on huge boulders without any support except for the small gaps in the boulders which was used for climbing. At the summit was a small cave kind structure used by trekkers for overnight staying. Since it was rainy season there was so much of fog that we couldn’t see anything.
Key Takeaways: Best in rainy season, travel in your own vehicle/hire, carry rain jacket.
Key Takeaways: Best in rainy season, travel in your own vehicle/hire, carry rain jacket.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Near Murbad: Malshej Ghat
On 18th July, I and Amit Bhalerao set out for Malshej Ghat (110 K.M. from Mumbai) in his Honda Civic. He picked me at around 7.00 a.m. from Gokuldham Gate and we took the Western express highway and via Jogeshwari Vikhroli linked reached the eastern express. We proceeded towards Thane and after passing Bhiwandi took the right turn and moved towards Murbad. The surroundings was amazing with lush green vegetation all around and was overall terrific being outside Mumbai. On the way we halted at ‘’Mamaji Dhaba’’ and had poha and tea. Total Damage: INR 80.00. The road was in pretty good condition and was not so crowded. As we started approaching Malshej Ghat, the landscape, atmosphere surprisingly took a marvelous change and was everything was looking simply amazing. The road was surrounded by lush green trees on both sides and huge mountain was visible on the right side. The roads were full of ups and downs and we were literally at 100/100 kmph. Finally we arrived at the ghat at 10.00 a.m. and as we started driving uphill we were in clouds and there was so much of fog we were not able to see things beyond few meters. Finally we had arrived at Malshej ghat—basically a road beside the mountain with multiple water falls at short distances and a valley on the other side of the road. We parked our vehicle like others and started enjoying the scenic beauty. There were lot of vehicles parked on the road side and travelers were enjoying the bath below the water fall. One however needs to go with his vehicle, since the place has lot of visitors who come drunk and actually create a nuisance. There are few small time vendors selling corn, tea etc. Its feels great enjoying corn and tea among the mountains. The area is surrounded by monkeys and one needs to be beware since they are interested in the eatables. We stopped for almost 45 minutes and proceeded on the same road towards Shivneri fort—Birth place of Shivaji. Roughly 5-10 minutes from the ghat on the left side was MTDC resort. As we went on we were followed by a river on the left side and the entire scene was terrific. After travelling for almost 30 k.m. we arrived at a small village, from where we took right. The road was pretty quiet with fields on both the sides. Finally we arrived at Shivnrei fort and the road goes upto the base of the fort. There are vendors selling tea, lemon water, wafers, and biscuits. After parking our vehicle we started the climb and there are 2 big doors on the way. The fort is on pretty good conditions and there is a garden build inside were one can take rest. Finally we arrived on the top after roughly 15-20 minutes of climb. There were water tanks on the way and as we proceeded further we came to this small place where Shivaji was supposed to be born. This was a small room, locked and has steps which can be climbed to arrive on the first floor. Behind this structure was a small water tank and with a walk of 5 minutes was a point from where the entire surrounding area could be seen. Near the birth structure with a climb for 5 minutes we arrived at the summit which had a mosque like structure. We climbed down and went on the other side of the mountain to arrive a temple which was inside the mountain and beside that were small caves which were basically used for storing goods etc in those times. The view from the mountain is amazing and we relaxed there for almost 30 minutes. Finally we started towards back home and took lunch at the shivneri village which was settled near the base of the mountain. The village was pretty big with ST stand, markets, small time hotels, schools etc. After finishing our lunch we proceeded to Mumbai and thus our one more amazing journey came to an end.
Key Take away: Visit only in rainy season; take your own vehicle, avoid driving at night since there are no street lights.
For pictures please follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Key Take away: Visit only in rainy season; take your own vehicle, avoid driving at night since there are no street lights.
For pictures please follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Dwarka- Jyotirling
On July 10, 2009, I parul and daksh set out for Dwarka and caught the saurashtra mail at 9.15 p.m. from Borivali. Next day at around 3.45 p.m. we reached Dwarka station. It’s a small station and was filled with devotees arriving from across India to visit Dwarka and Bet dwarka. The station was unique in the sense it was different from other stations I have visited so far. There were no single shops, outlets and bus stand. There were however autos waiting for passengers arriving at the station. We took an auto and asked him to take us to a budget hotel, near the temple. He took the only single road outside the station and after travelling across residential houses for roughly 10 minutes we arrived at Meera Hotel. I checked the hotel room and seemed to be ok for one night stay. Total Damage: INR 250.00. Auto damage: INR 20.00. We got a room on the first floor and after taking a bath I went out to enquire of the temples and surroundings. Just outside the hotel I checked with an autoguy and he agreed to take us to Jyotirling, Rukmini temple and drop us at Main temple. Total Damage: INR 200.00 within half an hour we were ready for our trip and our first stoppage was Jyotirling at a distance of 13.00 K.M. from our hotel. Meera was located near Isckon gate and was just outside the main city and roughly at 1-1.5 k.m. away from the main dwarka temple. It was however centrally located and was at a suitable location to cover rukmini, bet dwarka, bus stand and jyotirling. The road to the jyotirling was quite empty and was surrounded by lush green vegetation on both the sides. It was the perfect place to be and we were enjoying each moment and on the way saw lot of peacocks. On the way I saw the local animal called Neelgah (as big as horse, with skin colour similar of donkey). Finally as we were approaching the place one can easily see a huge statue of Lord Shiva standing tall amidst the place. One can hardly miss the beauty of the place and I was surprised to see a religious place which was not at all crowded by smaller outlets. It was almost 5.00 P.M. and there was hardly any queue and we got darshan within seconds. On the temples left was a huge Shiva statue and in between was a banyan tree and the whole place was having a tranquil and peace atmosphere. After few photo sessions we set out towards Rukmani temple which was on the way to Bet-dwarka and hardly 2 k.m from the main city. The temple was quite old and had the ancient look with sea water hardly 800 meters away. One needs to be beware of the local priests who promises to narrate the entire story of the place being away from main dwarka temple, ending up with donation of INR 100.00 towards the trust. We then proceeded to the main temple which is in the heart of the city and the city itself is quite small. The temple is magnificent from outside and one cannot take camera, mobile phone inside. Inside the temple has the status of Lord Krishna and has separate queues for male /female. Just behind the temple is the Arabian sea/ghat. After our darshan we searched for some good place to dine. In dwarka there are lots of dining places with gujarati thali concept. We somehow found it difficult to look for some good place and finally after much enquiry reach at a local chauk and took a dinner at a famous thali restaurant. Total Damage: INR 60.00. Dwarka as such has nothing great place to shop except for pooja items, bangles, idols of God etc. next day we left our hotel at around 7. 00 a.m. and reached the bus stand and got into a bus for Bet dwarka. Total damage: INR 40.00. Roughly after travelling for 40.00 minutes we arrived at Okha and immediately proceeded towards the ferry. There were people who were alredy waiting and the ferry takes in almost 65-70 people. Total Damage: INR 20.00. One can also book the entire boat for INR 600.00. The ferry took almost 20-25 minutes to reach Bet-Dwarka—basically an Island on the other side where Lord Krishna ruled. The boat ride is worth an experience and the breeze was great /fun. Finally on approaching the other side one has to walk for roughly 5-10 minutes to reach the place which is surrounded by shops/ small restaurants and the temple is a roughly a 2-3 mnutes walk. One has to leave his cellphone /camera outside and even luggage is not allowed inside. Its an old temple, but worth a visit. After finishing darshan we took the chakkda and proceeded towards a Hanuman Temple- roughly 5.00 k.m. from the main temple. Chakkda is basically the cheapest /only mode of transport in bet and has a handle just like motorcycle with a carrier just like the tractor trolly for carrying people. Parool and daksh sat in the trolley with other passangers and I rested on the side frame balancing myself and the luggage. It was a lonely, road trip with mangroves on both the sides without any human settlement—the perfect places I always love. We finally arrived at the temple where one needs to take care of ants-big ones which dot the entire place. After our darshan , we proceeded further for just 5.00 minutes and arrived at an ashram of some ancient saint. We were running late and had a train to catch from Okha and rushed towards the ferry and finally managed to reach Okha station at 12.00 P.M. since we had 30 minutes more, we took lunch just outside the station and had a great food along with butter milk.
Thus one more journey to an end, but will always remain in my soul.
Key Take aways: Ready to adjust to gujarathi food, Bargain hard,return journey best from Okha
For more pictures please follow the following link:http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Thus one more journey to an end, but will always remain in my soul.
Key Take aways: Ready to adjust to gujarathi food, Bargain hard,return journey best from Okha
For more pictures please follow the following link:http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Aurangabad- Ajanta & Ellora
On 25th June 2009 I, Parul and Daksh set out for Jalgaon. We arrived sharp at 10.15 p.m. Dadar to catch the Nagpur Special departure at 10.25 p.m. Next day morning at 6.30 a.m. we arrived at Jalgaon station. We proceeded towards east side and outside the station there was a rickshaw stand and SBI ATM. There is a single straight parallel road outside the station and after walking for 2-3 minutes we arrived at Anjali Restaurant (based on locals recommendation).We had idli sambhar and the restaurant was no cheap as compared to Mumbai ones. Unfortunately the restaurant does not serve tea, however there a numerous tea stalls .After having breakfast we caught auto to proceed to New Bus Stand. Total Damage: INR 15.00. There is also old bus stand, which is for intercity travel. The shops were closed and usually open at around 9-9.30. Within 10-15 minutes we arrived at the bus stand. The bus stand was quite clean and organized as compared to normal upcountry bus stand. We were advised to wait near stand no.7 and the bus was at 8.00 a.m. Finally the bus arrived at 8.00 a.m. and was 2*2, much comfortable then normal ST bus. Finally at 9.25 we arrived at Ajanta and the bus dropped us on the main road –towards Aurangabad. Total Damage: INR 100.00 and the distance is 55-60 K.M The place was great as we can see mountains on all the sides. We proceeded towards the main gate and after taking left arrived at the entrance and were asked for entrance fee. Total Damage: INR 14.00. There was this straight road without any vehicle noise and took right to arrive at entrance –various shops were present selling maps, stones, paintings, eatables etc. We proceeded towards the bus stand and after passing through the shops arrived at the bus point. There are 2 options available: A/c and Non A/c: INR 12.00 and 7.00 accordingly. Total Damage: INR 14.00. We caught the bus and it was remarkably good one and once sufficient passengers had aboded we set out for AJANTA. After travelling for 10-15 minutes we arrived at the entrance of Ajanta. There is an entrance of 10/person Total Damage: INR 20.00. There is a restaurant named Ajanta and one can have some stuff before proceeding since it’s the last place where u can eat something. There is a cloak room where we kept our luggage and it also has toilet facility available. Charges: INR 4.00 for Cloak and INR 8.00 for bath facility. There are pottery facilities for elders and for small children’s. Charges are INR 300.00 negotiable. There is a giant banyan tree right at the entrance and we rested for around 30.00 minutes and had bhel.
Right at the start on the left side there is a lonely wooden bridge which is used while coming out and the official journey starts with a climb on stairs. Everywhere there were mountains and after walking for 5-7 minutes we arrived at the entrance where the entrance tickets are checked. Thus we started our Ajanta journey with all the caves in sequences numbered from 1 to 30. The caves are great with paintings which still seem live and the initial caves have lights since its quite dark inside. We were not alone, but accompanied by numerous tourists i.e., Indians and foreigners. The caves were not on even base, however one has climb up and down. It was really tiring since it was quite hot and I was carrying daksh most of the times. In between we halted numerous times to rest and have some food. Finally we finished at around 3.45 p.m.and one has to travel the same route to come back. There was a waterfall on the extreme right towards the final caves, however we dropped the plan since there were no waters, and it would have been great in Aug. we arrived back and reached the main road at around 4.45 p.m.we waited on the main road and after waiting for 15 minutes got a lift from GATI logistic TATA 407.We were seated beside the driver and was an amazing experience. Total distance is 98 K.M. from Ajanta to Aurangabad. Total Damage: INR 160.00 finally at 8.10 p.m. we arrived at Aurangabad bus stand and after asking parul we wait at the stand I started the search for the hotel. I got a hotel near the bus stand –SHANGRILLA INN. Total Damage: INR 250.00. The room was nice and big with toilet and TV facility. We had dinner at Paradise restaurant near the bus stand. All the hotels are near the bus stand in a single lane and there is no good restaurant for dinner except for Paradise and Manjeri near the bus stand. Manjeri is pure veg.
Next day on 27th June 09, after taking bath and other morning chores we proceeded towards the bus stand for Ellora 7.15 a.m. we took breakfast-poha at one of the tea vendors and decided to take an auto for sight seeing. The places to be covered were Ellora, biwi-ka-makbara, jyotirling, daultabad fort, tomb of Aurangzeb, pan chakki. After negotiation –Total Damage: INR 350.00 we proceeded first towards Daulatabad Fort which was at a distance of 25-26 k.m. from bus stand and finally we arrived at the fort. Being early morning it was not so crowded and after paying and entrance of INR 10.00 we went inside. It was a huge fort and believed to be one of the finest of that time and was quite huge. Just at the entrance there is big hall which has cannons of various types displayed with one big one at the centre. After proceeding inside on the left side there is a ‘’step-well’’ but in a depilated condition. After proceeding further there is big minar structure –red color which stands out. On the left side there is a huge structure which seemed like assembly hall and is connected to an old temple towards right side. Further walking for 5-10 minutes one arrives at the entrance of the fort. There are lots of monkeys inside the fort. On arriving inside this fort we came across a bridge which was to cross the water beneath –almost 30 feet and look marvelous with huge boulders. On crossing the bridge we arrived at a small entrance and took a guide to explain further—since there was a ‘’bhool-bholiya’’. Total Damage: INR 50.00. He took a mashal and explained us each and every intricacy and it’s impossible to go without a guide. We came out and there is a big cannon- 14ft which is worth a look. One can climb 750 steps to the summit –however there is nothing worth going except for scene. We proceeded towards Ellora and after travelling for 20 minutes arrived at Ellora. Entrance fee: INR 20.00 + 10.00 for auto. We were asked to visit Cave 16. First since it was the best one. Indeed the same was the case and we were left speechless. One should not miss this cave and we saw all the caves till 22. Caves 22-32 were slightly far off—walk of 1.00 k.m. and since it was quite hot we dropped the plan. However I found Ellora much better then Ajanta. We proceeded to jyotirling which was at 10 minutes from ellora. Since it was afternoon it was not so crowded and after spending 20 minutes in queue we arrived at the main entrance. Mens are supposed to remove their upper clothes and we took darshan in flat 30.00 minutes. We proceeded towards the tomb and after travelling for 10-15 minutes arrived at the mosque where we saw Aurangzeb, his son, wife and gurus tomb. The mosque was quite calm and pleasant. We moved towards Biwi-ka-maqbra and arrived in 30.00 minutes. Entrance fee: INR 10.00. While moving towards biwi, we took lunch on the highway and there are good restaurants. Biwi-ka-maqbra looks like taj mahal however cannot be compared in the real sense. The marbles are giving away to rugged looks and appear brownish. On the entrance there is water pool with ducks quacking and daksh enjoyed a lot and was infact not moving from there. The walk towards the main building takes 5 minutes and has a bi garden on the left side. The main building has a mosque on the left side and few buildings on the right and behind. The structure is big and has its own importance. Finally we arrived at PanChakki and since we were late we couldn’t see as there was no electricity and one has to arrive before 4.30 P.M. or after 7.30 P.M. we arrived at 5.00 p.m. in our hotel and after resting checked out at 8.25 p.m. and arrived at Aurangabad railway station –distance 3-4 k.m. Total Damage: INR 20.00 –Auto. There are restaurants near the station and the station building is quite good. Finally our train arrived at 11.45 p.m.and we boarded the train and thus our journey to Aurangabad came to an end.
Key Take aways: Take any means from Ajanta, Bargain hard, carry sufficient waters, food.
For more pictures please follow the following link:http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Right at the start on the left side there is a lonely wooden bridge which is used while coming out and the official journey starts with a climb on stairs. Everywhere there were mountains and after walking for 5-7 minutes we arrived at the entrance where the entrance tickets are checked. Thus we started our Ajanta journey with all the caves in sequences numbered from 1 to 30. The caves are great with paintings which still seem live and the initial caves have lights since its quite dark inside. We were not alone, but accompanied by numerous tourists i.e., Indians and foreigners. The caves were not on even base, however one has climb up and down. It was really tiring since it was quite hot and I was carrying daksh most of the times. In between we halted numerous times to rest and have some food. Finally we finished at around 3.45 p.m.and one has to travel the same route to come back. There was a waterfall on the extreme right towards the final caves, however we dropped the plan since there were no waters, and it would have been great in Aug. we arrived back and reached the main road at around 4.45 p.m.we waited on the main road and after waiting for 15 minutes got a lift from GATI logistic TATA 407.We were seated beside the driver and was an amazing experience. Total distance is 98 K.M. from Ajanta to Aurangabad. Total Damage: INR 160.00 finally at 8.10 p.m. we arrived at Aurangabad bus stand and after asking parul we wait at the stand I started the search for the hotel. I got a hotel near the bus stand –SHANGRILLA INN. Total Damage: INR 250.00. The room was nice and big with toilet and TV facility. We had dinner at Paradise restaurant near the bus stand. All the hotels are near the bus stand in a single lane and there is no good restaurant for dinner except for Paradise and Manjeri near the bus stand. Manjeri is pure veg.
Next day on 27th June 09, after taking bath and other morning chores we proceeded towards the bus stand for Ellora 7.15 a.m. we took breakfast-poha at one of the tea vendors and decided to take an auto for sight seeing. The places to be covered were Ellora, biwi-ka-makbara, jyotirling, daultabad fort, tomb of Aurangzeb, pan chakki. After negotiation –Total Damage: INR 350.00 we proceeded first towards Daulatabad Fort which was at a distance of 25-26 k.m. from bus stand and finally we arrived at the fort. Being early morning it was not so crowded and after paying and entrance of INR 10.00 we went inside. It was a huge fort and believed to be one of the finest of that time and was quite huge. Just at the entrance there is big hall which has cannons of various types displayed with one big one at the centre. After proceeding inside on the left side there is a ‘’step-well’’ but in a depilated condition. After proceeding further there is big minar structure –red color which stands out. On the left side there is a huge structure which seemed like assembly hall and is connected to an old temple towards right side. Further walking for 5-10 minutes one arrives at the entrance of the fort. There are lots of monkeys inside the fort. On arriving inside this fort we came across a bridge which was to cross the water beneath –almost 30 feet and look marvelous with huge boulders. On crossing the bridge we arrived at a small entrance and took a guide to explain further—since there was a ‘’bhool-bholiya’’. Total Damage: INR 50.00. He took a mashal and explained us each and every intricacy and it’s impossible to go without a guide. We came out and there is a big cannon- 14ft which is worth a look. One can climb 750 steps to the summit –however there is nothing worth going except for scene. We proceeded towards Ellora and after travelling for 20 minutes arrived at Ellora. Entrance fee: INR 20.00 + 10.00 for auto. We were asked to visit Cave 16. First since it was the best one. Indeed the same was the case and we were left speechless. One should not miss this cave and we saw all the caves till 22. Caves 22-32 were slightly far off—walk of 1.00 k.m. and since it was quite hot we dropped the plan. However I found Ellora much better then Ajanta. We proceeded to jyotirling which was at 10 minutes from ellora. Since it was afternoon it was not so crowded and after spending 20 minutes in queue we arrived at the main entrance. Mens are supposed to remove their upper clothes and we took darshan in flat 30.00 minutes. We proceeded towards the tomb and after travelling for 10-15 minutes arrived at the mosque where we saw Aurangzeb, his son, wife and gurus tomb. The mosque was quite calm and pleasant. We moved towards Biwi-ka-maqbra and arrived in 30.00 minutes. Entrance fee: INR 10.00. While moving towards biwi, we took lunch on the highway and there are good restaurants. Biwi-ka-maqbra looks like taj mahal however cannot be compared in the real sense. The marbles are giving away to rugged looks and appear brownish. On the entrance there is water pool with ducks quacking and daksh enjoyed a lot and was infact not moving from there. The walk towards the main building takes 5 minutes and has a bi garden on the left side. The main building has a mosque on the left side and few buildings on the right and behind. The structure is big and has its own importance. Finally we arrived at PanChakki and since we were late we couldn’t see as there was no electricity and one has to arrive before 4.30 P.M. or after 7.30 P.M. we arrived at 5.00 p.m. in our hotel and after resting checked out at 8.25 p.m. and arrived at Aurangabad railway station –distance 3-4 k.m. Total Damage: INR 20.00 –Auto. There are restaurants near the station and the station building is quite good. Finally our train arrived at 11.45 p.m.and we boarded the train and thus our journey to Aurangabad came to an end.
Key Take aways: Take any means from Ajanta, Bargain hard, carry sufficient waters, food.
For more pictures please follow the following link:http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Igatpuri—Mt.Kalsubai
On 13th June 09, I and Ashish Negi set out for Mt.Kalsubai. We reached Dadar station at 11.45 p.m. to catch the Mahanagri express , however the train was delayed for more than an hour and arrived at 2.15 a.m. instead of its actual departure at 00.25 a.m. At 5.00 a.m. we arrived at Igatpuri station and after using the public loo on the station we set out. We walked towards the platform 1 and came out of the station. There is a rickshaw stand immediately outside, however we proceeded towards the bus stand which was towards the right hand side once we were outside the station. We arrived at the bus stand after walking for roughly 10-15 minutes. The shops were closed since it was only 5.25 a.m. We enquired at the bus stand and were being informed that the first bus to Bhandardara was at 7.00 a.m. and Kalsubai was one the way. Immediately outside the bus stand are tea vendors and I had tea. The entry point of the bus stand has a dargah and the exit point has a temple. We waited at the temple and caught the bus at 7.00 and the bus left sharp at 7.00 a.m. Total Damage: INR 40.00. After a journey over almost an hour we arrived at Bheri—small village which is the base from where one starts for Mt. Kalsubai. There was a small outlet where we got down and we took tea and Poha. Total Damage: INR 26.00. There is no other option except for poha and biscuits. One can see majestic Kalsubai from the stand and was magnificent. We proceeded towards the Bheri Village and after walking for 15-20 minutes arrived at the village. There is a well outside the village which was surrounded by villagers collecting waters which were dropped in by the tanker. We walked just beside the school and asked the locals for the direction and they were quite helpful. We walked and passed across the fields and kept on moving. There was no major trouble in finding the path since they were made on account of people walking. On the way we came across Bheri temple and few huts of villagers and we kept on walking and finally were very close to the base. There was a group of hikers who were walking down and had come from Mumbai. They informed of starting the trek at 6.00 a.m. and at 8.30 a.m. were down. They told us of the climb and step to be taken. Our journey had started at 8.35 a.m. and we were pretty comfortable in our timing. Finally we arrived at the spot where there were iron girdles and steps which were to be climbed. The steps and the iron girdles were of great help and additionally I was carrying a bamboo stick which was of great help in the climb. Ashish unfortunately was not wearing any cap and was neither carrying stick. After climbing on the steps for 20 minutes we came across iron ladders which were laid since steps could not be built as it was vertical rocks. One needs to be cautious while climbing the ladders. We kept on climbing with intermittent halts of 2-3 minutes to restore energy. Finally we came across a family with 2 children’s who had started at 8.00 a.m. we arrived at 10.40 a.m. at a spot where there was a tree and a huge stone where we all rested and infact we took a nap for 20.00 minutes. I was under impression that we had arrived, however the guide with the family informed that still there was a steep climb. By this time the sun was also bright and was taking its toll. We kept on walking, on the step, sometimes flat land and finally with intermittent iron ladders. We reached a flat top where the small temple of Behri was visible and that spot was the tallest peak in Maharashtra. The last step to the temple was through the iron ladder and finally we had arrived at the summit and it was 11.37 a.m. It took us 3 hours to reach top without any stretch. The view from the top was something which left us forgets out tirelessness. On the one side we can see the Bhandardara Lake and on the other side were the wind mills on the mountains. As far as our eyes could see there were only mountains and nothing else. At the top beside the small temple there was nothing and there was no shady place to take rest. We rested and ate Sattu, dry-fruits which I had got. After resting for 25 minutes we decided to travel down and decided to rest at the place where we had waited earlier while climbing. While travelling down we came across cattle’s i.e., cow grazing. We took rest at the spot and after resting for almost 1.5-2.0 hours at 2.30 p.m. started descending down. While climbing down it was easier, however on the iron ladder one needs to be really careful. We finally arrived at a small hut where we had nimboo-pani for INR 5.00/ glass. We arrived at the village and it took us 2.00 hours to reach the base. We had not eaten and Ashish was quite hungry and there was not a single hotel since it was a small village. We reached the main road and at the roadside shop we ordered for Poha and tea. Total Damage: INR 41.00. We waited for the bus at 6.00 p.m. since we had missed the 4.30 p.m. and finally caught the bus and arrived at Igatpuri station and it was 7.05 p.m. we roamed in the local market and Ashish had Chinese at the dinner and I took some fruits. We caught the Howrah-Mumbai at 8.25 p.m. and arrived at 11.05 p.m. at Dadar. Thus one more memorable journey came to an end.
Key Takeaway: Start Early, carry eatables, good quantity of water, cap.
For more pictures please follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Key Takeaway: Start Early, carry eatables, good quantity of water, cap.
For more pictures please follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Nasik—Trimbakeshwar
On 30th May 09 I and parul were to set out for Nasik, however since she couldn’t make it, I decided to go alone. I caught the 00.25 a.m. mahanagri express from Dadar and arrived Nasik at 4.25 a.m. the journey was supposed to be most interesting one as I was carrying only INR 320.00 and the account for which the ATM card I was carrying was out of funds. I asked my father to deposit some cash next day morning. I sat at the station for 15-20 minutes and proceeded to platform no.1.immediately outside the platform was the rickshaw and the bus stand. There were refreshment shops selling tea, vada pav which are open 24 hours. I was asked by the ticket conductor to catch the bus to CBS (Central Bus Stand) and immediately got the bus which was packet even in early morning. Damage: INR 10.00 and in 15 minutes arrived at CBS. At CBS there is a common toilet and paid one for using the service. The first bus for trimbakeshwar leaves at 5.15 a.m and goes from bus stand 1. There was a queue of people already standing and one need to really muscle to get inside the bus. Buses leave every 15 minutes for Trimbakeshwar and I caught the 5.30 a.m. bus. The scenic beauty was too good and one could see huge mountains on the left side of the raod. Toal damage: INR 20.00. At 6.00 a.m. I arrived at trimbakeshwar and as I got out of the bus, I couldn’t believe that it was such a good place. I could see mountains surrounding the place with clouds touching the mountains. There is a common toilet which I availed for INR 2.00 .It was not a great place, however being a budget traveler one needs to be prepared for every eventuality. I immediately proceeded towards the temple and after walking for 5 minutes arrived at the entrance of the temple. There was already queue with people standing since long and I became part of them which started at 6.30 a.m. and finally at 7.45 a.m. I got the darshan of jyotirling and one is not even allowed to stand even for a minute. There were lot of people doing parikrama of the temple and there is a holy water in the temple compound which is however open only to pundits of the temple. The place outside the temple was now buzzing with pilgrimages and one can find shops selling all sorts of things. I took breakfast at the nearby hotel of poha and tea. Total damage: INR 11.00. Towards the left side I walked straight and reached KUSHAWARTA--- a bathing place where there are waters of Godavari river and usually one takes a bath in the water before visiting jyotirling. One can't take a bath with soap since that’s not allowed and there are security people who keep watch on everyone. Immediately I proceeded to the bus stand and at 8.54 a.m. left for ANJANERI on the way to Nasik at a distance of 6.00 k.m from Trimbakeshwar. I asked the conductor to stop at anjani and immediately towards the right side there is a board which reads to Anjani—birthplace of Lord Hanuman. It’s a climb through the village and takes 30-40 minutes to reach the base of the mountain. There is a big mountain which is like a straight rock and can’t be climbed straight. There are steps which I took and was quite tiring since the temperature was almost 40-41. On the way I arrived at a small cave of Lord Buddha. I rested for 5 minutes and proceeded straight up and reached a flat plateau. There is a temple and a place to rest .the wind was so strong and was the windiest place I had ever visited. The view was exhilarating and I proceeded on and took the company of few local students who were also on the way up. Finally we arrived at the summit and walked for 5-10 minutes and arrived at this small temple on which it was written—birth place of hanuman. Immediately we proceeded back and reached the base at 12.00 p.m. at the base there is nothing to eat, however there is a local which sells lemon juice for INR 5.00. There is a place where I took rest and at around 2.30 p.m. proceeded to the main road. On the road I took lunch. Total damage INR 55.00. Usually one finds bus from anjani however I found it difficult since lot of the state buses didn’t stop. Finally I got the bus and arrived at CBS at 4.00 p.m. immediately outside the bus stand there are shared auto which takes to Ram ghat for INR 5.00/person. It took roughly 10-15 minutes to reach the ghat and the place was full with devotees who were bathing and offering deeps. The place is surrounded by market where locals come for shopping and near the ghat is old shiv temple worth a visit. Just outside the road is black Rama temple which is made of full black stone. Immediately next to this temple is the SITA gufa—where sita was supposed to be abducted .proceeding straight I came to a small temple which was Lakshman Rekha and then Hanuman Temple –8th meters. Its worth some time to spend at the ghat and watch people bathing of all ages and wakes of life. There is also boating facility available and aarti which takes place at 7.00 p.m. I proceeded to station and near the station there are small road side stalls which sell milk—full glass for INR 9.00 and half a glass for INR 5.00.
I enquired for my train to find that it was 10 hours late so I took general ticket and entered Amritsar express which arrived at 12.00 a.m. there was not a single place to sit and came standing till igatpuri. There I managed to find a place to sit and had slept for only an hour and arrived at Mumbai at 5.10 a.m.
Key Takeaway: Start early, visit Anjani, caves on the Mumbai Highway (I couldn’t).
For pictures follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
I enquired for my train to find that it was 10 hours late so I took general ticket and entered Amritsar express which arrived at 12.00 a.m. there was not a single place to sit and came standing till igatpuri. There I managed to find a place to sit and had slept for only an hour and arrived at Mumbai at 5.10 a.m.
Key Takeaway: Start early, visit Anjani, caves on the Mumbai Highway (I couldn’t).
For pictures follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Ahmadabad—Modhera
On 22nd May I and Ashish Negi set for Modhera and caught the Lok Shakti express at 8.25 p.m. Andheri. The train was packed with locals who usually travel till Palghar. Next day morning at 4.59 a.m. we arrived at Ahmadabad. Immediately we rushed to the platform No.1 to enquire for a train to Mehsana and go 2 general tickets for INR 28.00 /head. We rushed to platform no.3 and found Bandra-Jaipur express and were about to leave at 5.30 A.M. the next train was a local passenger at 6.30 A.M. we reached Mehsana at 7.59 a.m. and paid 100.00 to the TC for travelling in Sleeper class which was the difference amount and took the voucher. There is an ATM of SBI at the station and one can find lodge for INR 100.00 immediately near the station. We took breakfast at the nearby shop i.e., Dhokla, bhajia and tea. We took the straight main road i.e., Raj Mahal road and reached the bus stand in 10.00 minutes. The bus was at 9.00 a.m. from bus stand number 1 and the total damage was INR 30.00. The distance between Modhera and Mehsana is 25 K.M.and we arrived at Modhera around 10.00 A.M. we didn’t get down at the bus stand instead got off near SHAKTI FURNITURE from where the temple is much closer. One need to walk for roughly 10-15 minutes to reach the sun temple distance would be 800.00 metres. The temple is really a fine art and has much more intricate designs then the one at Humpi. There is water reservoir outside the main temple which has 108 small temples of SHIVA, Sheetlamata, and Ganesha etc. There is an assembly hall in front of the main temple and the visit was worth. The entire place is surrounded by a big garden where there a langoors. Local cultural festivals are held over here. There is just one refreshment counter outside the main entrance. The entrance fee is INR 5.00/ person. Outside the temple towards the bus stand when one walks down there is a step well—one step which can be visited .the step wells were built to help quench the thirst of the locals in those days. After spending almost 1-1.30 hours we left for the bus stand at 12.20 p.m. and had to walk down to the stand roughly 15 -20 minutes walk. The temperature would be 40-42. The bus was at 1.00 p.m.; however one can also take local auto which packs up passengers like anything. We arrived at Mehsana and took the Jammu Tavi express at 2.10 p.m. and arrived Ahmedabad at 4.48 p.m. our train to Bombay was at 8.10 p.m. Mumbai special and hence we decided to visit Adalaj vav –step well. There was a local bus which goes but since we were short of time, we negotiated an auto for INR 200.00 and reached the place at 6.15 p.m. the step well really marvelous with 3 steps down and are sure not to be missed and have an entrance from the top towards the garden side. It’s in the middle of this place adalaj. We rushed back and just before the station out rickshaw person took us to an old Jain temple which was built almost 175 years back and is great. We arrived on time and reached Mumbai next day at 5.00 a.m.
Key Take-away: carry water, caps.
For more pictures follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Key Take-away: carry water, caps.
For more pictures follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Karnataka—Humpi, Pattadakal, Badami, Aihole
On 31st March, I, ashish negi and Deepika (friend of Ashish) set out for Humpi and arrived at Dadar station to catch Chennai Express departing at 20.30. Our ticket was not confirmed. Deepika was carrying the army pass since her father was in army. We boarded in the army compartment and next day at 11.15 a.m. arrived at Guntakal station. Immediately we took the local passenger train to Bellary. Total damage was INR 27.00. The train left at 11.45 a.m. with the next train being at 12.40 p.m. the train was overcrowded with people and there was not a single place to sit. Deepika managed to find a place to sit, whereas I and ashish reached Bellary standing at 1.05 p.m. the station was too small to handle to passengers and was over crowded. Outside the station we bargained for an auto to Humpi .total damage was INR 600.00. Auto took the NH-63 and after travelling for half and hour took right to DAROJI. Roughly 19.00 k.m. from daroji is the bear sanctuary. The journey to humpi was on a lonely road with boulders on both the sides. We stopped on the way to take snaps of the lakes, boulders. We arrived humpi at roughly 2.30 p.m. the first glimpse of the place left all of us speechless. It was an area spread in diameter of around 7 k.m. on the way to the humpi market we could see lot of temples. On reaching the market, we were followed by guest house agents and we took 2 rooms at Deva hotel for INR 200/room. It was a single room with attached toilet, however the biggest advantage being just 2 minutes walking from the main temple. Immediately after taking bath we took an auto who promised to show all the important places in Humpi. Total damage: INR 500. We saw vithala temple. There is one main road surrounded by shops on both the sides. The market had cyber-café, restaurants, garment shops and an ATM.Next day morning we took 02 bikes from the nearby shop. Total damage was INR 200 / bike for whole day and INR 150/ scooty, petrol charges separately. He takes the advance money and an identity proof. We left at 8.00 a.m. and drove all the way towards the vithala temple to catch a dongi to take us to the other side of the river. The last stretch to the dongi is quite narrow and one needs to be careful. The dongi carries 2-3 bikes and 8-10 people. It’s made of bags used for carrying food grains and tied with bamboo sticks. The dongi however turned out to be quite strong to handle such weights. This was the most amazing moment for all of us, since we had never travelled in dongi earlier. The local authorities were building flyover, however the same couldn’t be completed as it caved in. total damage: INR 50.00. We drove our bike towards left and straight towards monkey hill, and pampasarovar.from this place we went straight and reached a market and from there we took right and reached a dam which was awesome. We went straight and reached a village called JUNGLEE. The place was simply magnificent with fields spread across. We lied down over there in the cool breeze. From this place we headed to monkey hill. The hill has some 750-1000 steps to be climbed and on the top is a temple and big boulders where Jackie Chan had shooted for MIRAGE. One can view entire humpi from there and is worth a climb. Finding a food can be an issue as the stalls at the base sell only tea and coconut water. We reached our guest house in the evening after visiting the other temples which we had left on the first day. By 6.30 p.m. we left for HOSPET in auto and total damage was INR 100.00.we arrived at near the bus stand since the major hotels were nearby. We took a room in the nearby lodge and total damage was INR 550.00 for 2 rooms. The rooms were big; however the toilet was not clean.
We decided to visit Pattadakal, Aihole and Badami. We negotiated with the local taxi and we all settled for INR 1900.00 and to start next day morning at 5.30 A.M. we all left at 6.10 a.m. and after travelling through the highway the taxi driver took left for the road to Belgaum and we arrived at Aihole in one an half hour. Aihole had temples which were built in 10-11the century A.D. and has fine work and is worth a visit. We left for Pattadakal (UNESCO site) and reached in next half and hour. The place was magnificent as compared to Aihole and there was a main temple which contained small pictures of various episodes of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Here we found local woman selling bhakri, vegetable and butter milk homemade. The best food I have ever eaten in my travelling carrier and the total damage was INR 75.00. Finally we arrived at Badami, which is in the middle of the city. The place has a big lake at the centre and was surrounded by hill on the left side and 4 caves on the other side. The climb to the top is worth as one can see the entire city. The caves are marvelous with huge idols of Krishna and Siva. Cave 4 is of Mahaveer Jain and is worth a visit. On the way to the cave there are monkeys. We all set for Badami railway station to catch a local passenger train to Sholapur. The train was supposed to depart at 12.25 p.m. and one can take the general ticket and enter the sleeper class with paying the difference in the train. We arrived at Sholapur at 8.45 p.m. and immediately managed to find a train for Mumbai and reached the next day morning at 5.00 a.m.
Key Take away: take bike; spend at least 2 days, not to be missed place.
For more pictures follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
We decided to visit Pattadakal, Aihole and Badami. We negotiated with the local taxi and we all settled for INR 1900.00 and to start next day morning at 5.30 A.M. we all left at 6.10 a.m. and after travelling through the highway the taxi driver took left for the road to Belgaum and we arrived at Aihole in one an half hour. Aihole had temples which were built in 10-11the century A.D. and has fine work and is worth a visit. We left for Pattadakal (UNESCO site) and reached in next half and hour. The place was magnificent as compared to Aihole and there was a main temple which contained small pictures of various episodes of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Here we found local woman selling bhakri, vegetable and butter milk homemade. The best food I have ever eaten in my travelling carrier and the total damage was INR 75.00. Finally we arrived at Badami, which is in the middle of the city. The place has a big lake at the centre and was surrounded by hill on the left side and 4 caves on the other side. The climb to the top is worth as one can see the entire city. The caves are marvelous with huge idols of Krishna and Siva. Cave 4 is of Mahaveer Jain and is worth a visit. On the way to the cave there are monkeys. We all set for Badami railway station to catch a local passenger train to Sholapur. The train was supposed to depart at 12.25 p.m. and one can take the general ticket and enter the sleeper class with paying the difference in the train. We arrived at Sholapur at 8.45 p.m. and immediately managed to find a train for Mumbai and reached the next day morning at 5.00 a.m.
Key Take away: take bike; spend at least 2 days, not to be missed place.
For more pictures follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Mumbai- Kanheri Caves
On 25th April, I, Arun, negi and Trideep decided to visit Kanheri Caves at Borivali. Ashish picked me and Arun from the highway at 8.10 a.m and we arrived at Sanjay Gandhi National Park Gate. Trideep had already arrived. We took our car inside after paying an entry fee of INR 5.00/ person and the car entry fee of INR 50.00. The drive inside the park was great in the morning and roughly in 15-20 minutes we arrived at the base of the Kanheri Caves. If one were to walk down it will roughly take 45-60 minutes to reach the base. It was so surprising to find a small hill with caves in the park. After paying at entrance fee of INR 10.00/person we arrived at the caves. The information board at the entrance surprised all of us since it mentioned of 100 caves. We had never ever imagined of 100 caves. Cave-3 was great with 2 statue of gautam Buddha and a big prayer room inside. All the caves are lined side by side and the surprise element keeps on increasing. Cave 34 and 52 is also good. All the caves are more or less built of the same style. Few caves are at the top from where we could see entire national park. There is also a temple which was not so ancient; however the idol of the god was destroyed. Beside the temple is a dense jungle with langoors. We finished the entire cave visit in 2 hours. Senior citizens will difficult as there is sizeable climb. We decided to visit the safari which was inside the park. After parking the car, we took the bus. The charges are inr 30/person for adults and inr 15/child. The first bus starts at 9.00 a.m. and the last bus is at 5.00 p.m. the bus accommodates 15 people. The bus entered the safari and after travelling for 10 minutes arrived at a huge gate which was opened and we saw tigers which were resting. The tigers were not exactly in open however were surrounded by fence. After the tiger visit we arrived at a place where we could see lion resting under the shade. The lion was not in great health and feeds on the food supplied by the park people.
The place is however good for children’s.
Key takeaway:
Start early, carry water, caps.
For more pictures follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
The place is however good for children’s.
Key takeaway:
Start early, carry water, caps.
For more pictures follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Mumbai- Elephanta Caves
On 18th April 09, I, Nikhil talwar and manoj set out for Elephanta Caves. I met Nikhil and andheri station and we caught the 8.15 a.m. fast train to churchgate. We arrived at the station and waited for Manoj. We all left for elephanta and caught taxi from Eros to Gateway. Total damage: Inr 17.00.at the gateway on the left side there are counters selling ferry tickets to elephanta. There are 2 options available: small and big ferry. Small ferry charges INR 100/ person whereas the big one charges INR 120/ person. Total damage to us: INR 360.00. The ferry carries at a one go roughly 40-50 persons and one can sit at the top for which one needs to shell INR 10.00/ person extra. The view from the top is great and as one sees water everywhere. The ferry passes through huge merchant ships on the way. The total ride is for 45 minutes and is worth. Finally we arrived at this tiny island which is full of greenery. Once we got down, there is an option of either catching a toy train which would be carrying roughly 30-40 people at one go. We decided to walk down and in ten minutes we reached at the entrance. On the way we found small shops selling waters, biscuits, wafers. The entrance fee is INR 5.00/ person. There are steps to be climbed and takes 10-15 minutes to reach the elephanta. The step to the elephanta is surrounded by small shops on both sides. These shops sell t-shirts, ladies wear, stones, status of god in silver. There are refreshment centre’s selling dosas, vada-pav, idli etc.senior citizens can avail of doli while climbing the steps.
Finally we arrived at the elephanta, where on the right side was MTDC accommodation which is rarely available. The first glimpse of the site made us feel as if we have arrived at a site which is still so ancient. The first cave is huge with some marvelous artwork on the walls. It’s quite huge inside and at the centre was the 3 faced brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh statue. It was looking so live as if someone had made just recently. Inside there is shiv linga. Just beside was cave 2 which contained a small shiv linga and Ganesha statue. Cave 3 and 4 is at a distance of roughly 5 mns and is not so great as compared to Cave1.
We finished the entire thing by 12.00 p.m. and after taking some refreshment at the nearby hotel returned back home.
Key Take-away: Avoid going in summer, wear cap if going in summer, carry water, and start early morning
For pictures please follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Finally we arrived at the elephanta, where on the right side was MTDC accommodation which is rarely available. The first glimpse of the site made us feel as if we have arrived at a site which is still so ancient. The first cave is huge with some marvelous artwork on the walls. It’s quite huge inside and at the centre was the 3 faced brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh statue. It was looking so live as if someone had made just recently. Inside there is shiv linga. Just beside was cave 2 which contained a small shiv linga and Ganesha statue. Cave 3 and 4 is at a distance of roughly 5 mns and is not so great as compared to Cave1.
We finished the entire thing by 12.00 p.m. and after taking some refreshment at the nearby hotel returned back home.
Key Take-away: Avoid going in summer, wear cap if going in summer, carry water, and start early morning
For pictures please follow the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Friday, May 15, 2009
Vidisha & Bhopal-Sanchi Stupa and Bhimbhetka
On 26th march 2009, I, trideep, ashish and denzil set out for Vidisha. We took the Punjab mail from dadar departure time being 7.55 p.m. Next day at 10.40 a.m. we reached Vidisha station. The station had the similar looks of the traditional upcountry stations of India, however we all were feeling good and were feeling the freshness of the clean air. Outside the station there was a market –as anticipated, markets develop around railway stations in India. There is a SBI ATM near the station. We all decided to take a lodge to rest, have bath to set out for the journey. Very near to the station there was a temple which had the entrance in the form of Lions mouth and was looking marvelous. We enquired and took a lodge ''SWAPNLOK'' for 1-2 hours. Total damage: INR 80.00. The rooms were of bare minimum standard, with a common bathroom outside the room, however on the same floor. We took bath and other morning chores and rested for 30.00 minutes. We took breakfast in one of the nearby restaurants ''Shree Krishna Sweets & Restaurant '' comprising of poha, poori-chola, juices, and lassi. The hotel owner advised us to take an auto to visit Sanchi. The bus stand was around 1.00 k.m. away from the railway station. Nearby the station was the taxi stand, and after hard negotiation got an auto for INR 190.00. The autos in Vidisha accommodate 4 people and we set out for our journey to Sanchi. Locals in the train advised us to visit Udaygiri caves and we asked the auto to take to Udaygiri. At 12.20 p.m the auto after going through the market, finally took a route which was the traditional deserted trial with trees on both the sides. Finally after a travel of roughly 25 minutes we reached Udaygiri caves. The cave had a deserted look with hardly any tourist—perfect recipe for all four of us. It was an area with small villages surrounding it and small hills which were bearing the structures. The cave 1 itself was having the huge Krishna avatar – bore and was quite a marvel. There are local guides available – depends on ones interest level. Beside this caves were other surrounding places –Krishna in sleeping posture. We walked up the mountain and could see some structure far towards the north and walked towards it. It was a 10-15 minutes walk up a small hill and reached the temple place from where we could see the entire surrounding place. The view from this place is worth remembering and we will never forget in our lifetime. Nearby the cave1 there is a beautiful garden, which is usually used by the young couples. After spending almost 1.00 hours we set out for Sanchi. There is new road which has been built and takes directly to Sanchi bypassing Vidisha market. The road lacks the normal chaos of the Mumbai traffic, however surrounded by fields, breezes, far- off mountains and pure O2. We all were so impressed by the nearby serene that we all stopped at one place in the middle and took impressive photographs. Finally the auto reached Sanchi market- too small as compared to Vidisha at 2.10 p.m.There was an entrance fee of INR 05.00/ person and is a short climb, tiring if one were to climb. Finally we got the first glimpse of the stupa of Sanchi—World Heritage Sight. We all were left speechless at the first glimpse of this magnificent sight. There is a parking site for vehicles and after the security check we entered the site. At the entrance on the left side was the water tap with clear and cold water- with which we quenched our thirst. The main stupa stands right at front with stupa-2 on the left side and stupa-3 on the right side- however not visible and one needs to walk down. The way to the stupa-1 is surrounded by a garden on which we all rested down and looked at the beautiful structure lying on the grass. However lying on the grass is not allowed and the caretakers will ask you not to do so. We all started taking the photographs and Ashish was the leader in this. The stupa was basically a tomb shaped structure – which does not have any entrance inside. There are steps which encircles the entire structure. Immediately to the left of stupa-1 on a short climb one can see small structure with the status of Buddha. Within the compound is a shop for refreshment and a museum – closed on Friday. Stupa-3 was on the left of Stupa-1 and while walking down we saw a wall structures which could have been the bathing place. Near stupa-3 was a small artificial tank, which was great since I was resting with my legs in the water. After spending almost 3.00 hours we all set for Bhopal at 4.41 p.m. Coming down we couldn’t find an auto and hence walked down. It took roughly 15 minutes to reach the main road and easily found a mini bus to Bhopal. Total damage: 75.00 INR. The journey to Bhopal took 1.25 hours and reached the bus stand. We took an auto to the station, since it’s always better to stay near railway station. Total damage: INR 20.00. There were few guest house very next to the station, however was not worth. The automan finally took us to a hotel – 5-7 minutes walking from the station – which was however decent. We took 1 room with an extra bed to accommodate all 4 of us. Total damage: INR 650.00. It was already 7.00 p.m. and we all decided to see local Bhopal. After getting fresh we took an auto and went to Tajul mosque—India’s largest mosque and worlds second largest. Total damage: INR 110. 00. Bhopal city is exceptionally clean and was looking quite decent and not so overly crowded. By the time we reached it was already 8.15 p.m. however could see the magnificent mosque. It was really huge and the scene from inside the mosque was thrilling. We set out for our dinner and finding a veg restaurant was a slight challenge. There is lot of juice corners selling fruit juices—worth a try. JAMEEL Restaurant is great for Non veg in Bhopal. Finally we took the dinner at the hotel – beware of the dal and ask the waiter in advance of not preparing it spicy. The dal was so spicy that we couldn’t eat.
Day-2
Next day morning myself and dada (Trideep) set out to the station to find out means to reach Bhimbetka-unesco site at a distance of 41.00 k.m. from Bhopal. Finally we negotiated with an auto---total damage: INR 650.00.we all set out at 7.40 a.m. and first went to a place –breakfast as suggested by the auto driver. The breakfast comprises of poha, kachori, tea. The route to bhimbetka was slightly altered to accommodate Bhojpur as suggested to us by one local. Finally after a ride of almost 45.00 minutes we reached Bhojpur- small place with a temple on a small hill at 9.00 a.m. The climb to the temple made us reach a place –which was like an ultimate surprise to us. It had a huge shiv-ling ---22.00 feet –tallest in the world. The shiv-linga was such a huge that the poojary was using a staircase to reach the top and by the time we reached he was bathing the linga with milk. Beside the temple- 10 minutes walk on the left side took us to Betwa river. The scene from the top of the rocks was great. We proceeded with our journey towards Bhimbetka at 10.30 a.m. The road was passing through paddy fields, trees. The auto then took the highway and after travelling for certain distance it took right and had to cross a railway crossing. At the cross itself there is a hotel—for accommodation available. The path to bhimbethka is a climb with an entrance fee of INR 15.00/ person. The place has a totally different look with rocks surrounding the entire place. Finally we arrived at the entrance of the place at 110.20 a.m. One needs to take a guide for complete understanding of the place. The guide was quite decent, English-speaking and knowledgeable. The first point is a huge rock on which there are paintings of man, animals, bows-arrows. The paintings are believed to be around 50000 years back and still remain intact. The guide showed us other rocks-enclosures nearby where the primitive human beings used to stay. The total experience was great- however since short of time we could spend much time over there. There are believed to be total some 50-75 such places with the forest area. At few places the excavations are still on as advised by the guide. 5- Minutes walk takes to a temple—one can actually miss this since it’s not any ancient temple. We all set out for Bhopal and very near to this place after crossing the railway crossing on the high-way is a DHABA. This palace serves delicious food and we had lunch packed till the last space. Since the summer was just setting in we were feeling thirst every 10 minutes. Finally we reached the hotel at around 2.30 p.m. Ashish set out for TAJUL since he wanted to take snaps of the mosque in the day light. We 3 decided to go for local shopping and reached the main market of Bhopal-CHAUK BAZAAR. The place was live with shoppers-ladies and was having numerous shops. I bought 3 ladies purse – for home. Denzil bought ear-rings and Dada bought a bag for carrying goods while travelling.
Thus came the journey too an end and we left Bhopal on 28th March 09 with fond memories.
Key takeaways: Bargain hard for auto fare, carry sufficient water, carry eatables while off bhimbetka, avoid summer, don’t miss Bhojpur.
For pictures please follow this link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Day-2
Next day morning myself and dada (Trideep) set out to the station to find out means to reach Bhimbetka-unesco site at a distance of 41.00 k.m. from Bhopal. Finally we negotiated with an auto---total damage: INR 650.00.we all set out at 7.40 a.m. and first went to a place –breakfast as suggested by the auto driver. The breakfast comprises of poha, kachori, tea. The route to bhimbetka was slightly altered to accommodate Bhojpur as suggested to us by one local. Finally after a ride of almost 45.00 minutes we reached Bhojpur- small place with a temple on a small hill at 9.00 a.m. The climb to the temple made us reach a place –which was like an ultimate surprise to us. It had a huge shiv-ling ---22.00 feet –tallest in the world. The shiv-linga was such a huge that the poojary was using a staircase to reach the top and by the time we reached he was bathing the linga with milk. Beside the temple- 10 minutes walk on the left side took us to Betwa river. The scene from the top of the rocks was great. We proceeded with our journey towards Bhimbetka at 10.30 a.m. The road was passing through paddy fields, trees. The auto then took the highway and after travelling for certain distance it took right and had to cross a railway crossing. At the cross itself there is a hotel—for accommodation available. The path to bhimbethka is a climb with an entrance fee of INR 15.00/ person. The place has a totally different look with rocks surrounding the entire place. Finally we arrived at the entrance of the place at 110.20 a.m. One needs to take a guide for complete understanding of the place. The guide was quite decent, English-speaking and knowledgeable. The first point is a huge rock on which there are paintings of man, animals, bows-arrows. The paintings are believed to be around 50000 years back and still remain intact. The guide showed us other rocks-enclosures nearby where the primitive human beings used to stay. The total experience was great- however since short of time we could spend much time over there. There are believed to be total some 50-75 such places with the forest area. At few places the excavations are still on as advised by the guide. 5- Minutes walk takes to a temple—one can actually miss this since it’s not any ancient temple. We all set out for Bhopal and very near to this place after crossing the railway crossing on the high-way is a DHABA. This palace serves delicious food and we had lunch packed till the last space. Since the summer was just setting in we were feeling thirst every 10 minutes. Finally we reached the hotel at around 2.30 p.m. Ashish set out for TAJUL since he wanted to take snaps of the mosque in the day light. We 3 decided to go for local shopping and reached the main market of Bhopal-CHAUK BAZAAR. The place was live with shoppers-ladies and was having numerous shops. I bought 3 ladies purse – for home. Denzil bought ear-rings and Dada bought a bag for carrying goods while travelling.
Thus came the journey too an end and we left Bhopal on 28th March 09 with fond memories.
Key takeaways: Bargain hard for auto fare, carry sufficient water, carry eatables while off bhimbetka, avoid summer, don’t miss Bhojpur.
For pictures please follow this link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Malkapur- Lonar Crater
On 3rd April 09 Ravindra Mishra, Manoj Shriyan , Denzil Dsouza and Ashish Negi set out for Malkapur to visit Lonar—(Worlds third largest crater of basalt rock). We reached dadar station to catch the Howrah mail at 8.50 p.m. After finishing our homemade dinners which myself and manoj had got we decided to go for sleep since we had to get up early morning. I and Ashish had a good sleep, whereas Manoj and Denzil would have slept for not more than 2 hours. We reached Malkapur next day at 5.30 a.m. The station was quite calm without any hussle and bustle of passengers. Very few passengers alighted at the station. We started our photo session with the snapshots of the Malkapur station board and a group photo. We finished the brushing of teeth and washing our faces on the station itself. Immediately out of the station there was a rickshaw stand and few tea stalls. The appearance outside the station was of a small town with limited stores/stalls. We halted at the Satyam Pan Mandir and had tea, poha and vada-pav. The tea was really good, however was too sweet (peculiarity of interiors in Maharashtra). The bus stand was roughly 1 k.m. from the station and we caught hold of one to take us to the station. They charge INR 5.00 / person. Outside the station there is this single road which takes to the bus stand. On the way we got the glimpse of the city, which was like any other traditional small towns of India. The shops had not opened since it was just 6.15 a.m. in the morning; however the atmosphere was quite thrilling. We were able to breathe in lot of fresh oxygen and the calm, tranquility and peace being experienced by all four of us. We had reached the bus stand, which was almost at the centre of the market. Surprisingly it was not as crowded as one would have imagined. I checked for the bus timings and was told by one of the cunductors that the first bus was at 7.00 A.M. he also informed us that it would take 4-5 hours to reach Lonar. This set us back as 4 hours of journey was going to be painful and trying. Manoj threw the idea of going by rickshaw. The same person who had taken us to the bus stand agreed to carry us, however put the total damages at INR 1700.00. Finally we all decided to go by Maruti van, which was being offered at INR 2200.00. After hectic negotiation the final price offered by the guy was INR 1700.00. We disagreed and moved on for some other travelling agent. In the interim we bought lots of fruits from the vendor and he advised us to go to Satyam stores for the vehicle. We finally landed at satyam refreshments after a walk for 10-15 minutes. It was a refreshment centre selling tea. Poha, colddrinks, sugarcane juices etc. He first showed reluctance of arranging, since just a month back, some tourists had come for a vehicle to take them to lonar and at a remote place asked the driver to step down and took the vehicle away. We somehow managed to convince the person and who agreed to arrange for the vehicle. Finally the deal was stuck with the driver for INR 1400.00 to and fro. It was already 8.25 a.m. by the time we left for Lonar. We were comfortable seated with Negi at the front and rest three of us at the back. The road condition was quite good and was a main road with trucks, buses passing by. We could see fields, as far as we can see and mountains which was not so tall. At one place there was a temple where we halted for darshan and took snaps from there. We crossed 2 toll naka on the way which charged us INR 30.00 each for return journey. We crossed Buldana on the way, and few other places where one can stop for refreshments. We finally reached Lonar market at around 11.10 a.m. It was a good sized marketplace with lot of villagers who had come for buying, selling their produce. The place however was decent and we could find shops of all types along with guest houses including AC. Within the town itself the van took a right turn and we proceeded toward the crater. After driving for just 10 minutes we had arrived at Lonar crater. It was a magnificent view from the top. All we could see was blue water at the middle of the mountain. We started taking snaps from all the angles possible. We could find lot of bushes with thorns and one needed to be careful of not walking onto them. By this time the heat started taking its toll. The place was quite dry and the suns ray was striking us directly. The temperature was roughly around 42. We returned back and came to the main entrance. We asked the driver to wait for us at the entrance and we started our march to the base of the crater. We found lot of villagers who had come to this place; however they had come to visit the ancient temples which were one the way to the base. We reached the first temple it was quite old and the carvings and the looks of the temple really gave it a great appearance. There was a water stream inside the temple and all the devotees were taking bath. We proceeded downwards and the way down was full of slopes, however not so difficult. We came across one more temple which was of Lord SHIVA and quite old probably of 5-6th century A.D. there were lots of devotees and nearby villagers taking bath, washing clothes. We proceeded further and came across the last temple of SHIVA which was in dilapidated order and the walls had fallen down. The carvings inside the temple was really great and was of 5th century A.D. we found lots of monkeys over here and the place was really quiet, cool and pleasant. Surprisingly very few devote come to this temple. We halted and decided to quench our thirst and hunger with grapes and other fruits which we were carrying. Finally after relaxing for 15 minutes we proceeded further and reached the water. There was human habitat at the base and they were carrying out farming. The base of the crater turned out to be a disappointment as the view from the top was much more spectacular then from the base. The journey to the base took us almost 45 minutes. There were buffalos that were enjoying the summer heat in the water and we could see one temple of DEVI at the other side of the lake. We rested over there for roughly 15 minutes and decided to climb back. By this time the heat started taking toll on us and we were terribly hungry. Climbing up was a bit challenge since everyone was tired and we halted at the second temple on the way. I decided to lighten myself, by taking a bath and did so and was really fun. Reaching at the top we asked the driver to take us to some good restaurant. He took us to a restaurant type of setup and we ordered lots of chappatis, dal, rice, butter milk. We had our tummy full to the last with no space to accommodate. The food was simple and tasty; however was by no means cheap looking at the place. Total damage was INR 167.00. We started our journey back to Malkapur. We were consuming lots of water since it was really dry and we could feel the heat and warmth. We had closed the window of the car as the air was quite hot. Finally at around 4.00 p.m. we arrived at Malkapur. Since our train was at 10.15 p.m. we decided to rest in some lodge since there was nothing else in Malkapur where one can spend time. The driver after enquiring with few lodges took us to Rohini Hotel and we settled for the non ac room. Total damages INR 300.00 for 5 hours. We took bath and rested back watching TV. At 7.00 p.m. we decided to go our for dinner and shopping. Manoj, Denzil and Negi tried Pani Puri which was really cheap. Then we for juices i.e., pineapple, mango, sugarcane. We visited the wholesale market, which was really big and was in two lanes. Finally we took the dinner at KHADEKAR Bhojnalay as recommended by the locals. It was a pure veg joint which was frequented by all sorts of people. The food was simple and spicy and total damage was INR 148.00. We visited a sale offer of Chinese items and picked up few items for home. Finally we came back to the hotel and set for the station. Finally we had tea at Vaibhav tea near the station and went to catch our train ( Vidarbha Express). We arrived at dadar station next day at 6.25 a.m.
Key Takeaways: Avoid April till June, Avoid going by bus, start early morning.
For photos:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Key Takeaways: Avoid April till June, Avoid going by bus, start early morning.
For photos:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Gangtok-Sikkim
On 1st March 2009 I, parul and daksh left for gangtok and arrived at sealdah railway station. Priyesh had accompanied us to the station and we were slightly bulky on the luggage front. As it was a first visit to such a cold place we didn’t wanted to take a chance especially since Daksh was of only 2 years and 1 month. The best part of the station was that there is no bridge to board the train since all the platforms are parallel to each other. We got ourselves seated to our respective places. There were lot of foreigners in the train and were carrying huge lugguages demeaning what we were carrying. The train left at 10.10 p.m. and after few minutes we straight away went to sleep. Next morning at 8.05 A.M. we arrived at New Jalpaiguri station. The climate was pleasant and I could feel the peace and tranquility in the air. We arrived near the taxi stand and I could find SBI, AXIS ATM on the station. Outside the station there was lots of SUMOS/JEEPS/Mahindra waiting for tourists. I enquired for the trip to GANGTOK and there were 2 options: book the entire vehicle for INR 1425.00 or settle for shared one (INR 155.00/person). Since I have always been a budget traveler decided for the shared one. We got 2 seats next to the driver in the front; there were 4 seats in the middle and the back. Outside the station there were lots of travel agents shops for booking trips along with small eateries. We left for GANGTOK at 9.35 a.m. with a new wed couple in the middle who had booked the entire seat and 3 people in the last seat. After driving through the small habitat and few shops we were on our path, and reached Siliguri which was roughly at 40.00 mns from New Jalpaiguri. The driver filled the tank at Siliguri and we moved on. The roads were pretty good and the temperature was roughly around 18-22 C. the scenes were picturesque and was surrounded by mountains on both sides. After driving for roughly 2.00 hours we stopped at a place for some refreshments. It was a small shop selling wafers, biscuits etc. I ordered for dal/rice and tea and Daksh took wafers and peanuts. The peanuts were provided in small plastic pouches with a small plastic container with salt. The food was really good and we enjoyed since we were feeling hungry too. At 1.40 p.m. we arrived at Gangtok. The place was amazing since it was roughly at a height of around 3500 ft and was surrounded by mountains and lots of trees. The climate was cold with temperature of around 18c.we could see locals well dressed and didn’t look like Indians. They were having fair complexion and looks like the Chinese have. I was amazed as I could find everyone good liking and was giving us a complexion. We arrived at the taxi stand where everyone got down and now had to search for my hotel. I managed to find one taxi who knew our hotel i.e., Basar Residency. It took roughly 15 minutes and he left us at a tax stand opposite Sadar police station opposite to which was my hotel. We reached the hotel which was just 3 minutes away from the famous M.G. Road. The hotel manger didn’t had confirmation of my booking (Through Travel Guru). I called up the portal who in turn clarified my booking and the manager took us to the second floor. Our room was great, big, having good view with newly carpet and furniture. I decided to not waste the day and asked the manger for some tour operator who could take us to some nearby place of visit. Within next 10 minutes there were 2 young chaps named Anil and Deepak and they advised us to visit Rumtek monastery since it was almost 3.00 p.m. I agreed and within next 20 minutes we were out to Rumtek. The Maruti van was zipping across twists and turns of the road which was climbing up the hill and by 4.40 p.m. we had reached at Rumtek. The last 10 minutes was a walkable distance and vehicles not allowed inside the gate. It was like a dream come true since the view from the top left me speechless and we were roughly at a height of 4500 -5000 feet with temp of 10-12. We stepped inside the gate which was having 2 army personnel as security guard. The temple was looking like the ones I had watched in Chinese movies and was lucky to reach just in time, since the temple closes at 5.00 p.m. inside the temple was Buddha’s statue and places where the monks sit and pray. We took pictures and the monks were loving DAKSH and playing with him. Outside the temple was the bell which is rotated and was good moving all of them? We came back and it was almost 7.00 by the time we reached the hotel. Total damage for the trip INR 550.00. The next day trip was decided to Aritar lake (I always believed in visiting places which was close to nature).we took the dinner that day at M.G. Road since that’s the place where you find all the tourist and it’s the happening place in Gangtok where you find all the stuffs i.e., Eating, shopping, fun etc. we had Chinese at one of the food joint.
Day -2: 3rd March 09
Next day after our break fast (Aloo ka paratha) we left for the place at 9.00 A.M. it was a long drive and the journey was amazing since there were lots of greenery and the scenic beauty was breathtaking. There were few patches of the journey where the road was not good, otherwise it was comfortable. We stopped at a place for some refreshment. The food places in Gangtok normally stuff noodles, momos, dal/rice and WAI-WAI (substitute of MAGGI).AT 12: 15 P.M. we were at ARITAR LAKE roughly at a height of 5500 ft. my first impression was is this the place I should have come for any paid INR 1700.00, since it contained a lake (man made), however was surrounded by big pine trees and few guest houses. The lake had a boating facility; however I never wanted that since I was looking for something close to nature. Anil casually told us that there was a point at the top if we think of going there. I discounted that since I was not happy. Daksh was enjoying the place to the fullest since there were ducks inside the lakes and were quacking a lot. However the best part was that there were hardly any tourist and was not so crowded. We climbed up the place near the guest house and took lots of snaps. I told Parul to climb up to the top since we were curious of reaching the place. It was a 20-30 minutes climb; however it turned out to be the place I had always dreamt of. As we were climbing up on the stairs we were able to see the majestic range of mountains and the temperature was dropping at the same pace and must have been around 8-10. Finally we reached the top which was worth the sight and a place which has left a great impression on our minds. I felt like reaching heaven and the feeling and the emotions I was going through cant be expressed in words. We stayed over there for 2 hours and were enjoying the breeze and Daksh was at his best and was really delighted. We took lot of snaps we could have captured. There were few houses of the locals nearby, however none tourists and we were alone at a height of 6500 ft. after quenching our thirst of the glimpses of the mountain and feeling satisfied we proceeded towards the base. I thanked my tour guys from my heart, since by this time they had understood what I was looking for. We reached the hotel at 7.10 p.m. and took the dinner at one of the veg joints on the M.G. Road. Visit to gangtok can’t be complete without a trip to NATHULA PASS. I enquired with my hotel manager and he informed of the trip to nathula being cancelled on account of heavy snowfall. I decided to approach tour operators who had their shop on the M.G. Road and the trip was fixed for 5th March. We submitted 2 photographs each, PAN card photocopy and INR 1100.00.
Day-3: 4TH March 09
There was a sudden change in plan of Arun (newly wed couple) since they had to halt at Siliguri and so I asked my guys for a new place and after much discussion and thought we left for TENDONG HILL. This place was a gamble my me since Anil was also not so aware of this place. We were ready by 9.10 a.m., however started off late since I called up Anil at the last moment of my plan. We left at 10.00 a.m and the journey was full of surprise elements since for the first time we came across tea plantation and the scenic views was mindboggling. The gamble had paid since we were at a height of around 7000 ft and this place was none less than our visit to Aritar. We had stopped on the way where we tried out momos (fried) and was a good stuff. Finally we reached this small place where we started our walk, as we proceeded further we were told by the local that it was a 3 hours journey and would lead us to a Monastery. We kept on walking and were in the middle of the jungle without any human civilization except us three and the trees. The air we were breathing in was like the one which was something we have never inhaled i.e., clear, energetic, more oxygen content. After walking for almost an hour Parul was feeling slight tired (off course she was never used to such walk). I was carrying DAKSH on my shoulder and was no sign of fatigue or tiredness. I decided to call it off since we had moved quite inside the jungle and we had travel back too. The experience of not reaching the destination was not letting down, since alteast we experienced the kind of jungle I had never seen in my life. While travelling back we halted at a botanical garden on the way and the place is worth a visit.
Day-4 5th March 09
We left at 8.00 a.m. in the morning to the Changu stand since we had to reach there by 8.30 for NATHULA. I was wearing a t-shirt, on which there was 3 additional shirts and a jacket. Daksh was also having 4-5 layers of clothes, the same was with Parul. We were lucky to find the front seat and we left with 10 tourists on board. The journey was setting my adrelaine running since this was the day we had been waiting for. The climb for the vehicle was becoming challenging since it’s at a great height. The journey is marked with lot of army base camps on the way and there is permission to be soughed for vehicles plying on this route. We were enjoying the each and every moment of our journey. On the way we halted at a place where there was lot of tourist vehicles and a place for refreshments and toilet to lighten on self. If any one missed out woolen clothes, one can shop at this place, however should be ready to shell out extra bucks. We then proceeded on after a halt of 15.00 minutes. There were lots of labours building the road which was the only connectivity to NATHULA. The journey was full of twists and turns and the road quality was pathetic. Finally I saw a huge chunk of white object on the mountains “”” that’s it it was ICE…ICE…ICE. The thing which we had been waiting for. Amazing, speechless, nature’s creation…thrilling. Finally we came across CHANGU LAKE…which was great among the mountains at a height of 10500 ft. finally we reached a check post where there was a road to BABA MANDIR for which there was no permission required. After getting clearance from the army personnel he gave us the green signal. We proceeded on and the minute by minute I had my blood gushing to see what exactly was NATHULA PASS. Finally we had arrived at 14500 ft. that was NATHULA. There were were halted and asked by our guide to be there in next 2.00 hours. As soon as we stepped out it was amazing, being at 14500 ft, we were not having any breathing problem, however it was chilly atmosphere. We climbed on since there was a last stretch of 10 minutes. Now I was able to touch ICE and pick it up. DAKSH Was at his best… picking up ice and then crying and again picking. Parul was slight tired in climbing the last leg. We were amidst mountains which were having snow spread on them. Finally we arrived at an elevated platform which was NATHULA. On one –sides were Indian soldiers and on the other side were Chinese. Tourists were taking photographs with the Chinese and they too were enjoying. We also took snaps with them. Infact they were having fun with DAKSH and they took there digital cameras and shooted photo of DAKSH with themselves Daksh was without his shoes and socks and was enjoying the chill. Great spirit.that my son. We took lots of photos and infact on the Chinese side I could see a mountain which was of ice and not rock, that was amazing. After spending 2 hours we set to the base with Daksh enjoying the lolly pop given by the Chinese soldiers. We went to BABA mandir which is in the name of the Indian soldier who got lost in the mountains and never returned. UBI ATM could be found at this height. We then finally reached CHANGU LAKE, the place must a visit and was terrific, and we saw YAKS and took photographs on the YAK of myself and DAKSH (INR 60.00). The weather changes every minute at such heights and within seconds it became so cold that PARUL was shivering so we came to the base nearby which had lots of shops selling refreshments and woolen clothes. We reached our hotel but the fond memories would always remain.
Day-5 6th March 09.
We checked out of our hotel and Arun & Debarathi picked us up from and we proceeded to see a water fall which was just 20-25 minutes from Gangtok. The place was RIDGE garden and had a great water fall. We took lots of photographs and I also took bath in the fall, the water was really cold.
We then went to Aruns hotel and set out for Pelling, we were quite late on account of late availability of big vehicle. We reached pelling at 9.00 and had left at 3.00 P.M. the place could not be seen however was much colder than GANGTOK. It was a small place with the main road and the check in hotels on bothsides.we checked in our hotel—Rabdentse residency (travel guru). The room was good with an attached balcony and a wooden furnishing on the walls. After taking our dinner we went too sleep. It was quite chilling with temperature of 7 at night.
Day-6 7th March 09
We left our hotel at 10.00 a.m. with our first destination being KHECHEOPALIRI LAKE – the place is at a distance of 25 kms from Pelling and this route to the destination is great. There is more greenery in Pelling than Gangtok and better too. We arrived at the lake which was a great sight since there was so much of calm and serenity. It’s not visited by too much of Indian tourist except for foreign ones. It was surrounded by mountains and lots of greenery. We then proceeded to KHANGCHENDZONGA water fall on the way to YUKSOM .the waterfall is beside the road, however can’t be seen since one has to go inside to see this majestic waterfall. The scene was terrific with water flowing with such a great force. One however needs to be careful since the rocks are slippery and one can fall. The water droplets were falling on our faces despite we all standing quite far from the main fall. DAKSH was shivering on account of the cold. Debarathi was wet on account of the fall, and Arun was advising her to be cautious of catching cold. We took snaps of each other and were worth a fun. After spending few hours we left for YUKSOM. After a drive of 40 minutes we arrived at the place which was a quiet place with shops and houses and finally we arrived at NORBUNGANG CHORTEN, in the form of stone seats and a huge stone like structure. The place had lot of tall trees with huge trunks we had never seen before. Finally we took our lunch at 4.00 p.m. and set back with fond memories. In the evening we were told while taking dinner that we need to leave at 7.30 a.m. for Gangtok since the next mode available was only at 12.00 p.m.
Day-7 8th March
We checked out and left for Gangtok at 7.35 a.m. we got the last seat and was painful and reached at around 12.00 p.m We got the vehicle and reached NJP at 4.00 p.m. much before the expected time since the train was at 8.00 p.m. arun was returning in the evening to Siliguri and hence we couldn’t go together. We boarded the train at 8.00 p.m. for sealdah
Day-8 9th Match
We reached Sealdah and managed to find taxi to reach badabazaar to priyesh house. Since it was one day before holi we couldn’t venture out too much but managed to visit BHOOTHNATH TEMPLE of Shiva. After spending the day at his house we left at 5 .00 p.m.to visit the cousin of Parul on the other side of GANGES via ferry. Finally made to Howrah to catch our train at 8.00 p.m.
Thus came the journey to an end.
Key takeaways: visit during March start, nathula must, trip to lachung a must (I missed), woolen clothes must, stay close to M.G.Rod
Day -2: 3rd March 09
Next day after our break fast (Aloo ka paratha) we left for the place at 9.00 A.M. it was a long drive and the journey was amazing since there were lots of greenery and the scenic beauty was breathtaking. There were few patches of the journey where the road was not good, otherwise it was comfortable. We stopped at a place for some refreshment. The food places in Gangtok normally stuff noodles, momos, dal/rice and WAI-WAI (substitute of MAGGI).AT 12: 15 P.M. we were at ARITAR LAKE roughly at a height of 5500 ft. my first impression was is this the place I should have come for any paid INR 1700.00, since it contained a lake (man made), however was surrounded by big pine trees and few guest houses. The lake had a boating facility; however I never wanted that since I was looking for something close to nature. Anil casually told us that there was a point at the top if we think of going there. I discounted that since I was not happy. Daksh was enjoying the place to the fullest since there were ducks inside the lakes and were quacking a lot. However the best part was that there were hardly any tourist and was not so crowded. We climbed up the place near the guest house and took lots of snaps. I told Parul to climb up to the top since we were curious of reaching the place. It was a 20-30 minutes climb; however it turned out to be the place I had always dreamt of. As we were climbing up on the stairs we were able to see the majestic range of mountains and the temperature was dropping at the same pace and must have been around 8-10. Finally we reached the top which was worth the sight and a place which has left a great impression on our minds. I felt like reaching heaven and the feeling and the emotions I was going through cant be expressed in words. We stayed over there for 2 hours and were enjoying the breeze and Daksh was at his best and was really delighted. We took lot of snaps we could have captured. There were few houses of the locals nearby, however none tourists and we were alone at a height of 6500 ft. after quenching our thirst of the glimpses of the mountain and feeling satisfied we proceeded towards the base. I thanked my tour guys from my heart, since by this time they had understood what I was looking for. We reached the hotel at 7.10 p.m. and took the dinner at one of the veg joints on the M.G. Road. Visit to gangtok can’t be complete without a trip to NATHULA PASS. I enquired with my hotel manager and he informed of the trip to nathula being cancelled on account of heavy snowfall. I decided to approach tour operators who had their shop on the M.G. Road and the trip was fixed for 5th March. We submitted 2 photographs each, PAN card photocopy and INR 1100.00.
Day-3: 4TH March 09
There was a sudden change in plan of Arun (newly wed couple) since they had to halt at Siliguri and so I asked my guys for a new place and after much discussion and thought we left for TENDONG HILL. This place was a gamble my me since Anil was also not so aware of this place. We were ready by 9.10 a.m., however started off late since I called up Anil at the last moment of my plan. We left at 10.00 a.m and the journey was full of surprise elements since for the first time we came across tea plantation and the scenic views was mindboggling. The gamble had paid since we were at a height of around 7000 ft and this place was none less than our visit to Aritar. We had stopped on the way where we tried out momos (fried) and was a good stuff. Finally we reached this small place where we started our walk, as we proceeded further we were told by the local that it was a 3 hours journey and would lead us to a Monastery. We kept on walking and were in the middle of the jungle without any human civilization except us three and the trees. The air we were breathing in was like the one which was something we have never inhaled i.e., clear, energetic, more oxygen content. After walking for almost an hour Parul was feeling slight tired (off course she was never used to such walk). I was carrying DAKSH on my shoulder and was no sign of fatigue or tiredness. I decided to call it off since we had moved quite inside the jungle and we had travel back too. The experience of not reaching the destination was not letting down, since alteast we experienced the kind of jungle I had never seen in my life. While travelling back we halted at a botanical garden on the way and the place is worth a visit.
Day-4 5th March 09
We left at 8.00 a.m. in the morning to the Changu stand since we had to reach there by 8.30 for NATHULA. I was wearing a t-shirt, on which there was 3 additional shirts and a jacket. Daksh was also having 4-5 layers of clothes, the same was with Parul. We were lucky to find the front seat and we left with 10 tourists on board. The journey was setting my adrelaine running since this was the day we had been waiting for. The climb for the vehicle was becoming challenging since it’s at a great height. The journey is marked with lot of army base camps on the way and there is permission to be soughed for vehicles plying on this route. We were enjoying the each and every moment of our journey. On the way we halted at a place where there was lot of tourist vehicles and a place for refreshments and toilet to lighten on self. If any one missed out woolen clothes, one can shop at this place, however should be ready to shell out extra bucks. We then proceeded on after a halt of 15.00 minutes. There were lots of labours building the road which was the only connectivity to NATHULA. The journey was full of twists and turns and the road quality was pathetic. Finally I saw a huge chunk of white object on the mountains “”” that’s it it was ICE…ICE…ICE. The thing which we had been waiting for. Amazing, speechless, nature’s creation…thrilling. Finally we came across CHANGU LAKE…which was great among the mountains at a height of 10500 ft. finally we reached a check post where there was a road to BABA MANDIR for which there was no permission required. After getting clearance from the army personnel he gave us the green signal. We proceeded on and the minute by minute I had my blood gushing to see what exactly was NATHULA PASS. Finally we had arrived at 14500 ft. that was NATHULA. There were were halted and asked by our guide to be there in next 2.00 hours. As soon as we stepped out it was amazing, being at 14500 ft, we were not having any breathing problem, however it was chilly atmosphere. We climbed on since there was a last stretch of 10 minutes. Now I was able to touch ICE and pick it up. DAKSH Was at his best… picking up ice and then crying and again picking. Parul was slight tired in climbing the last leg. We were amidst mountains which were having snow spread on them. Finally we arrived at an elevated platform which was NATHULA. On one –sides were Indian soldiers and on the other side were Chinese. Tourists were taking photographs with the Chinese and they too were enjoying. We also took snaps with them. Infact they were having fun with DAKSH and they took there digital cameras and shooted photo of DAKSH with themselves Daksh was without his shoes and socks and was enjoying the chill. Great spirit.that my son. We took lots of photos and infact on the Chinese side I could see a mountain which was of ice and not rock, that was amazing. After spending 2 hours we set to the base with Daksh enjoying the lolly pop given by the Chinese soldiers. We went to BABA mandir which is in the name of the Indian soldier who got lost in the mountains and never returned. UBI ATM could be found at this height. We then finally reached CHANGU LAKE, the place must a visit and was terrific, and we saw YAKS and took photographs on the YAK of myself and DAKSH (INR 60.00). The weather changes every minute at such heights and within seconds it became so cold that PARUL was shivering so we came to the base nearby which had lots of shops selling refreshments and woolen clothes. We reached our hotel but the fond memories would always remain.
Day-5 6th March 09.
We checked out of our hotel and Arun & Debarathi picked us up from and we proceeded to see a water fall which was just 20-25 minutes from Gangtok. The place was RIDGE garden and had a great water fall. We took lots of photographs and I also took bath in the fall, the water was really cold.
We then went to Aruns hotel and set out for Pelling, we were quite late on account of late availability of big vehicle. We reached pelling at 9.00 and had left at 3.00 P.M. the place could not be seen however was much colder than GANGTOK. It was a small place with the main road and the check in hotels on bothsides.we checked in our hotel—Rabdentse residency (travel guru). The room was good with an attached balcony and a wooden furnishing on the walls. After taking our dinner we went too sleep. It was quite chilling with temperature of 7 at night.
Day-6 7th March 09
We left our hotel at 10.00 a.m. with our first destination being KHECHEOPALIRI LAKE – the place is at a distance of 25 kms from Pelling and this route to the destination is great. There is more greenery in Pelling than Gangtok and better too. We arrived at the lake which was a great sight since there was so much of calm and serenity. It’s not visited by too much of Indian tourist except for foreign ones. It was surrounded by mountains and lots of greenery. We then proceeded to KHANGCHENDZONGA water fall on the way to YUKSOM .the waterfall is beside the road, however can’t be seen since one has to go inside to see this majestic waterfall. The scene was terrific with water flowing with such a great force. One however needs to be careful since the rocks are slippery and one can fall. The water droplets were falling on our faces despite we all standing quite far from the main fall. DAKSH was shivering on account of the cold. Debarathi was wet on account of the fall, and Arun was advising her to be cautious of catching cold. We took snaps of each other and were worth a fun. After spending few hours we left for YUKSOM. After a drive of 40 minutes we arrived at the place which was a quiet place with shops and houses and finally we arrived at NORBUNGANG CHORTEN, in the form of stone seats and a huge stone like structure. The place had lot of tall trees with huge trunks we had never seen before. Finally we took our lunch at 4.00 p.m. and set back with fond memories. In the evening we were told while taking dinner that we need to leave at 7.30 a.m. for Gangtok since the next mode available was only at 12.00 p.m.
Day-7 8th March
We checked out and left for Gangtok at 7.35 a.m. we got the last seat and was painful and reached at around 12.00 p.m We got the vehicle and reached NJP at 4.00 p.m. much before the expected time since the train was at 8.00 p.m. arun was returning in the evening to Siliguri and hence we couldn’t go together. We boarded the train at 8.00 p.m. for sealdah
Day-8 9th Match
We reached Sealdah and managed to find taxi to reach badabazaar to priyesh house. Since it was one day before holi we couldn’t venture out too much but managed to visit BHOOTHNATH TEMPLE of Shiva. After spending the day at his house we left at 5 .00 p.m.to visit the cousin of Parul on the other side of GANGES via ferry. Finally made to Howrah to catch our train at 8.00 p.m.
Thus came the journey to an end.
Key takeaways: visit during March start, nathula must, trip to lachung a must (I missed), woolen clothes must, stay close to M.G.Rod
More Photos:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30002962@N05/
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