The Great Cultural Curry - Offbeat Travel Gems

Tranquebar - Revisiting the Scandivanian Legacy of Denmark at India's Southernmost Tip

2020-11-12T20:40:00.003+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

"The bygone times leave in its trail eternal memories of heritage structures and customs".

[Picture Credits: "Fort Dansborg at Tranquebar, built by Danish Admiral Ove Gedde, in 1620." by Eagersnap , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 ]

Think of colonial powers that ruled India, and the Big 3 always come to the fore - British, Portuguese, and the French. Not many are familiar with the Scandivanian connection to India. Yes, the Danes, native of Denmark ruled some parts of India for a considerable period of time - more specifically at the start of the 16th century (1620-1845).

The Danish East India Company merchants and ships arrived from 1616 onwards and dropped their anchors on the Coromandel coast(Tamil Nadu), Balasore(Orissa), Andamans, Sri Lanka, Puducherry(Karaikal coast), Surat(Gujarat), Cochin(Kerala) and Serampore(Hooghly, West Bengal) for the lucrative trading business of spices - chiefly Cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. The Southern coast of India also witnessed the French connection in all its glory, at Puducherry. Even today, you will find tree-lined avenues of French designs in Puducherry which is a delight to watch.

Although they ruled a few places in India, the Danish East India company left behind a stunning architectural trail that consisted of golden pink-hued forts, whitewashed churches, baroque houses, and majestic trading centers, colonies, and warehouses.

The two significant trading ports which bear strong testimony to Danish presence were - Traquebar in Tamil Nadu and Serampore in Hoogly, West Bengal. The Danes were full-bodied traders and merchants and their intention on setting foot in India was to establish trading outposts that linked all the way to Denmark.

It was in 1616-1620 that King Christian IV sent his envoy and admiral Ove Djedde to set an economic base in India. Ove Djedde with his keen insight sensed an opportunity in this place to be an important trading port and received a land grant from the Raghunatha Nayak, ruler of Thanjavur Kingdom. Subsequently, he built a strategic and important landmark overlooking the ocean which was called 'Fort Dansburg(60metres long and 11 meters wide)'.

At its height of power, this trapezoidal-shaped fort(closed on Fridays) served as the residence and a headquarters for the Governer and various high ranking officials of the Danish East India company. This imposing 400-year old mustard hued Fort Dansburg also housed a barrack, church, warehouse, storerooms, mess, minting press, merchants quarters, jail, chaplain house, and an administrative center. It is next only to Fort Kronborg in size of all the Danish forts Currently, it is converted into a museum that displays artifacts and relics of the colonial era. The museum also undertakes walking tours to understand the historical significance of the fort.

The antique collections on display are Chinese porcelains, manuscripts, steatite lamps, tea jars, curios, rare Maratha paintings, coins, fish bones, woodwork, stucco figures, glass items, terracotta, stones, swords, whale skeleton, and cannonballs. The fort was secured by the sea on the eastern and western sides. To keep it well guarded it was surrounded by a moat and access to it was through a drawbridge.

Another colonial remnant here is the 'Bungalow by the Beach', a residence for the Governor who was titled 'Opporhoved' meaning the 'supreme chief'. After the exit of Danes, the colonial bungalow was sold to the British East India company who then passed it to the local Nadar family who resided for many years before finally transferring it to the Taj Group. It also served as a summer house for the British collector after the treaty with the Danes.

[Picture Credits: "Bungalow on the Beach, Neemrana Hotels, in Tranquebar, Tamil Nadu" by Koshy Koshy , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY 2.0]

Due to its exotic value, the property was acquired once again by Neemrana Hotels, a heritage group in 2000, who opened the property in 2004 after extensive renovations. One striking feature of this property is the rare collection of architectural items of the colonial-era which can be accessed from the verandah of the hotel. The Fort and Pandya temple is in close vicinity of the property also. It is one of the most stunning and distinct of all Nagapattinam hotels, which is evident from the resplendent interiors.

Extending further it includes a library, exhibition area, shop selling artifacts, tamil restaurant, and a tourist guiding center.

A private pool extending towards the sea and surrounded by a sun deck affirms your privileged position in the cosmos like none other.

Coming to the religious structures, New Jerusalem Church on Kings Street was constructed by the Danish missionary of Danish - Halle mission, Bartholomaeus Ziegenbalg in 1718.

The Danish East India Company suffered heavy financial setbacks due to constant attacks by the Portuguese and British East India Company to establish their hegemony over the spice trade. The Danes could never get a strong foothold in India except at Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

The Danes traded mostly in Salpetre, silk, sugar, cotton, spice, and salt. Today we are going to unravel Traquebar - the hidden stronghold of the Danes in Tamil Nadu which few people are aware of.

[Picture Credits: "Bartholomäus Ziegenbalg monument" by Michael Gaebler , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY 3.0]

Traquebar(Trankebar) or Tharangambadi is a town in the Mayiladuthurai district in Nagapattinam off the Bay of Bengal on the Coromandel coast. Tranquebar literally means 'The Land of the Singing Waves'. Traquebar was a famous trading port till the 18th century before it was ceded to the British after the Dutch winded up their colonies The town has retained its Scandivanian influence through colonial street names like Kings Street, Queen Street, Admiral Street, etc..

Tranquebar true to its name lies in a serene landmass at the meeting of Kauveri and Bay of Bengal and was a potpourri of cultures - Danish, English, German & French coexisted in the peaceful town.

The coexistence of different cultures in this scenic town gave it a colorful hue that is existing to date.

The Dutch were very tolerant of all religions here and resided in their own colony by the ocean unmindful of the chatter and commotion in the mainland.

[Picture Credits: "Zion Church" by Mukul Faiz , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

In its halcyon days, the Tranquebar region housed several important landmarks notably Fort Dansburg constructed from the land grant given by Tanjore ruler Raghunath Nayak to Dutch nobleman Ove Djedde, New Jerusalem Church built by the Protestant missionaries, and the Zion Church built by the Lutheran missionaries from Germany.

Many Dutch ships landed in Tranquebar to trade and barter and got a cordial welcome from the locals.

[Picture Credits: "Danish Church" by Chenthil , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

The town gate('Landporten' in Danish) extends a warm welcome through a royal danish insignia on top. Relive the old world charm when the Danes ruled through the historic ruins and peppery ocean views. Along the far western end of Kings street, there is a marine museum also called Danish Indian cultural center for the marine buffs to visit. The everyday life in thatched roofs dwellings coupled with the ever swaying palm trees nearby, the saltiness of the ocean water, and soothing Tamil music in the background evokes the wonder of how the town has stood firm so long after experiencing the vagaries of nature.

[Picture Credits: Murali poduval, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons]

For the history enthusiasts, the town is kept in its former glory through the initiative of INTACH and Danish Bestseller, two of the foundations at the forefront.

It is located at a similar distance of 15kms from Karaikal, Puducherry, and Chola town of Pumpuhar and around 7 hr drive from capital Chennai to the south.

[Picture Credits: "Restored Goldsmith Street in Tranquebar" by Mukulfaiz , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

Famous attractions near Tranquebar:

Subramanya Temple, Perambur - Located on the outskirts of Tranquebar is one of the most famous Murugan Temple.
Zion Church - The first renowned Protestant church set up in 1701 by the German missionaries.
Brethrens Garden or Governors Mansion - Located in Porayar near Tranquebar. It was built by the Moravian Brethrens missionaries from Saxony, Germany.
Wildlife Sanctuary (Point Calimere which also has a lighthouse with the same name) - 100 km from Tranquebar. Spot wildlife like Blackbucks and exotic migratory birds at this location.
Goldsmith Street - Old colonnaded row houses and villas lined up in succession. They are renovated by the government and look charming. People can be mistaken to take this as a locality of Goldsmiths. :). The first printing press & paper press built by the Danes is also located here.
Uppanar river - Ideal for bird watchers, 10 mins drive from the Fort. A small inhabited island has some lunch options if you happen to visit.
Masilamani Nathar Temple - This 700-year-old wonder of the Pandyan kingdom combines unique dual designs of Chinese and Tamil architecture. It is located at the poolside of the Neemrana property - The Bungalow by the beach. A lone Nandi statue looks imposing outside the temple.
Chidambaram - This marvelous spiritual spot of the Hindus is 45kms away which is home to the Nataraja - A dancing form of Lord Shiva.
Vailankanni Basilica - 40kms away from the main town, this Lourdes of the east as faithful call, is a popular pilgrim spot not only for Christians but people from all walks of life.
Dargah of Hazrat Meeran - A famous spiritual center for the Muslims whose tank water is thought to carry healing properties.
Danish Cemetery - Forlorn and secluded white plastered cemetry housing the remains of Danes soldiers and royalty, on the Kavalamettu Street (on the opposite side of Kings Street)
Peter Anklers colonial house
Zeigenbalg museum - Located in Admiral street

Getting There:

Air Route: There are flights from every major metro to Trichy, which is the closest place to Tranquebar (130kms / 5hrs approx). Travelers flying from Chennai can take direct flights from Chennai to Trichy. For exploring the scenic route, take a taxi which will debit you by 3000 bucks.

Rail Route: The closest stations are Nagapattinam (35kms) and Chidambaram (40kms). Mayilduthurai is another close railhead.

By Road: It takes approx 7 hrs in traffic to travel from Chennai to Traquebar. There are Government buses from Chennai Bus Terminus and luxury private operators who charge double the rate of Government buses. Taxis are exorbitant and cost upwards of 4000 / -. (Rates may vary)

Route No. 324 bus travels from the Chennai bus stand to Tanquebar and costs around 350 and takes a total of 7hrs. From Pondicherry it takes around 4 hrs, Nagapattinam around 1 hr, Karaikal around 1/2 hr, so you can plan your schedule accordingly based on which town you are in. You will also encounter Cuddalore and Chidambaram, two holy towns along the bus route via East coast road.

Best time to travel:

August - March is the most pleasant period to travel. But be ready to face cyclones and rain fury also during the monsoons. So it would be preferable for tourists to visit the town after rains to spare you from the rain gods' wrath.

How to Explore this Danish Delight:

The best and convenient way is to rent a bicycle, pedal bikes, or walk lazily and explore. The scan and go type of tourist can hail a cab to visit religious places and nearby landmarks.

Except for Puducherry(100 km), all other towns like Nagapattinam, Chettinad, Mayiladuthurai, and Vailankanni are within 40kms distance to Traquebar.

Accomodations / Hotel options:

There are plenty of guest houses, lodges, budget stays, rustic resthouses, and luxury options in close vicinity of Tranquebar. Neemrana is a boutique property that offers splendid sea views. It also takes you on an old-world tour with its lofty interiors and vintage furniture. Here on offer are Intercontinental and South Indian dishes.

GateHouse Hotels(3/4 km) is another option just inside the old city. It has rich Tamil interiors and Danish exteriors.

Hotel Nippon is a colonial-style property just 1 km from the beach. Also, check-in Nayak House and Tamil Nadu House which are run by the Neemrana Group.

Finally, check out Expedia.co.in for pocket-friendly deals atTharamgambadi.

This link lists all the closest hotels in Traquebar: https://www.yatra.com/hotels/hotels-near-tranquebar-in-nagapattinam

Feast on the Go:

Looking to dine, drink, and make merry? Then Hotel Chettinad, a local favorite is a must-visit with its signature Chettinad chicken curry and Arabic dishes.

Hotel Kandaas is a fully vegetarian hotel with delectable dining options. The latter is located in the Karaikal area of Puducherry.

Hot Tip: You can get awesome deals by searching Google using the term ' Clicktripz hotel deals'. Once in Cliktripz.com enter the search term 'Tharangambadi' and the date range of booking.

For the newbies who want to take a guided virtual tour, the 360-degree panoramic virtual map from Tamil Nadu Tourism is a handy tool. Get detailed directions, navigate through colonial landmarks, and choose the itinerary as per your whims, all by a click of the button.

Time remains standstill in Tranquebar. True to its name, Tranquebar rhymes like tranquility and it is indeed a serene area. I really admire the ingenuity of the Danish East India Company to select such a wonderful location.

Tranquebar is one of the most gifted locations due to the floating of the thickest ozone layer, which is known to prolong life and drain away the stress from the tired urban body. One visit and you will discover the most enchanting experience of your lifetime.

Soak in the sun rays, feel the sea breeze caress your tired urban body, and relive your romantic fantasy when night sets in - Tranquebar has all the ingredients of a honeymoon destination.

Tranquebar is a haven for the laid back traveler who likes to saunter along the beach. Open your book, laze around on the rocking chair, watch the silent waves kiss the craggy rocks, the colorful boats at a distance, all these are just a few of the options to explore in Tranquebar.

For the night lovers, sitting on the fort bastions at twilight watching the waves hits the gigantic boulders is an experience of a lifetime. Get drifted with your myriad thoughts as you watch the time fly past.

Hidden in plain sight just next to the Mayiladuthar area, lies the quaint town of Tranquebar, which will leave you not only flummoxed by its beauty but healthy as well.

If I have to describe Traquebar in few words it would be - Magical, Delightful & an Idyllic oasis by the ocean.

Although the Danish asked for only 5 by 3 miles from the Tanjore king, they etched their place in the hearts of all in Tranquebar.

Ilha De Calma (Calm): The Stunning. Tranquil and Delightful Island of DIU( Daman ) in Gujarat

2020-10-31T23:45:00.921+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

[Picture Credits: "Diu - gate to the Diu Town " by User:Aotearoa , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0)]

"Don't get fooled by the size" is an oft used adage. At times, the smallest work of art hides mesmerizing tales of intrigue and beauty.

It is said that wherever the Portuguese ruled, there remained a glorious legacy in the form of gigantic monuments, splendid churches, majestic forts, and wondrous heritage structures. Being a naval might during the colonial times, the Portuguese were quite familiar with the sea, and beaches. Right from Kerala, Goa, Alibaug, Sri Lanka, Ambon (Indonesia) to Daman, Diu, the Portuguese left behind an incredible and indelible trail of stunning architecture. Many of the structures still stand testimony to the Portuguese architectural skills.

Today, I will be covering DIU, the 'Mysterious Isle of Calm' or 'Island of Calm' as the Portuguese called it, which is situated in Gujarat, India. It has achieved the moniker due to its unspoiled coast and low frequency of tourists, which is not the case anymore. Rapid constructions and infrastructure developments coupled with aggressive promotions by Diu Tourism have brought it to worldwide acclaim.

Now you can find tourists not only from Gujarat but also from other states of India and even the world. It is located South of Gujarat's Kathaiwad peninsula, 64 km SouthEast of Veraval in the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. '#Damao' or #Daman is the capital and administrative city of Diu. During its heydays, the island of Diu captured the attention of many colonial powers for maritime trade and was at the center of conflict between Gujarat's Sultans, Arabs, European powers, and Mamluks. Even the Kolis ruled over the city for a brief period.

[Picture Credits: "St Paul Church DIU" by Mohnish , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY SA 3.0]

Diu is now a prominent tourism and fishing hub. Diu is one such place where the Portuguese held its sway for a long period, and it is evident in the culture, language, the whitewashed churches, seaside forts, and hard to miss '#Hokka' Trees(also called 'Doum Palm'), which are a unique type of Palm trees native only to Diu, and not found anywhere else in India. Local lore states that these trees are indigenous to Egypt and were planted here by the Portuguese.

[Picture Credits: "Palm Hokka Tree" by Sarangib , Pixabay is in the Public Domain, CC0]

They bear red edible fruits(gingerbread fruit) at the time of maturity which is also used as a kitchen ingredient in Diu, and the hard as the iron seed is utilized for firewood. If you yearn for that uninterrupted solitude, then DIU is the place to be in. With its wide, clean, and structured roads, DIU boasts of a splendid infrastructure coupled with majestic arches, gateways, and marketplaces.

Need some bit of color? Then your visit is incomplete without landing at the stunning beaches and silent Havelis in Diu.

[Picture Credits: "Palm Hokka Tree Fruit" by Sarangib , Pixabay is in the Public Domain, CC0]

#Diu is a miniature copy of Goa with fewer beaches, resorts, restaurants, and other scenic places, but it carries its own grace and charm with whatever it has to offer. Here you will find Churches, Forts & Beaches coexist in heavenly serenity.

Golden sand Ghogla beach is the largest beach with a long coastline. In succession, there are beaches like #Nagao which is the most famous beach in Diu with crystal clear blue waters, #Chakratirth, #Gomtimata(secluded, but a busy beach), #Devka for its magical sunsets, #Jallandhar(visit for solitude), etc.

The sunset at the Devka beach is simply breathtaking and tourists gather at the spot to watch it after their day's routine is over.

[Picture Credits: "Nadia Caves, Jalandar Beach" by Rashmi Parab , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

Diu is a small place so it can be covered in 1-2 days even with a cycle. There are exclusive cycle tracks in Diu for the leisurely folks, but for the hard-pressed of time, there are plenty of cycle rickshaws, taxis, and tuk-tuks (rickshaws).

One of the major tourist attractions is the 'Festa De Diu', which is held in December and hosts adventure, cultural, heritage, and nature tours and sightseeing. It is the longest beach festival in Asia and is a sight to behold with numerous artisans dispensing their crafts.

[Picture Credits: "Nani Daman Fort" by Pradeep717 , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

Lined up are music concerts, carnivals, workshops, jam sessions, and literary events all in a themed calendar format. For the dare-devils, hot air ballooning, Bungee jumping, Ziplining, and Parasailing are the activities to indulge in.

Local tourists can take the Junagard route which is well maintained by a four-lane highway. You will encounter Somnath along the way which is at a close distance to Diu. Expect a dense green carpet on both sides of the road from Ahmedabad to Diu during the rainy season.

Due to the influence of Portuguese culture, many Catholic residents of Diu speak Portuguese, but the mainland languages remain Gujarati, Hindi & English. Daman and Diu are polar opposites, where Daman remains boisterous and noisy, Diu Town comes as a serene sibling.

[Picture Credits: "Diu Fort" by Sumit Sharma , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

Daman is like an enigma where it lies separated into two parts the smaller one called Nani Daman and the bigger older part of the city called Moti Daman. The irony of the fact is that Nani Daman is actually bigger in area than Moti Daman. This made me wonder why on earth the naming twist The Daman Ganga river separates the two parts of the city as if it's avoiding a clash of siblings(pun apart!).

Diu is one of the cities being nominated for the Smart City Mission of the central Govt. and efforts are on to project it as a city with a clean image.

The climate of Diu is hot, semi-humid as it's at sea level.

Visitors should carry all the accessories to keep away from suntan and scrappy blisters (for those with sensitive skin).

The culture of Diu is influenced by the Kathyawadi culture and this extends to dress, language, customs, food habits, and other practices.

[Picture Credits: "Daman Fort Lighthouse" by Premshree Pillai , Flickr is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0]

Hindus are the predominant religious group here, followed by Muslims and the minority Catholics.

The old Diu town is arrayed with Portuguese architectural remnants like the Diu Fort and its chiseled arch, which reminds me of the St Catherine Arch of Goa, yet another glorious Portuguese colony on the west coast of India. This arch was the exact point wherein the Portuguese forces entered into Old Goa, the vantage, fabled city of Goa.

How to Reach:

The town of Diu is separated from the coast by a narrow channel and consists of two mainland enclaves. You can arrive straightaway at Ghogla side if you happen to travel from Una.

[Picture Credits: "Diu Fort, Diu Island" by Aditya Mahar , Wikimedia Commons is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0]

The closest towns are Una, Veraval, Somnath & Gir. The nearest railhead is at Veraval, around 90 km from Diu and 70 km from Ahmedabad. The next closest railhead is at Somnath which is around 65 km from Ahmedabad. Taxi is available from Veraval to Diu which costs around 1500 max (may change).

There are 3 trains departing from Ahmedabad viz:

Somnath Express
Ahmedabad - Veraval Intercity
Jabalpur - Veraval Express

By Road: This option is the most exciting as it traverses the length of Gujarat amidst a carpet of greenery and red earth. The road trip provides a sneak preview of the Gir Lion sanctuary which is simply amazing.

Below listed are 3 optimal routes to reach Diu from Ahmedabad by road:

The best, safest, and least traffic Route 1 (approx 370km): It takes you via Bhavnagar to Una entering Diu
Next is from Ahmedabad to Amreli via Una to Diu
The final route traverses from Rajkot - Junagarh - Veraval - Somnath - Kerseval - Diu.

By Airways: There are direct flights from Mumbai to Diu by Air India flights. Diu being a small place, the airport is just a strip with a small terminal building.

The town of Diu is quite accessible by bridge to the mainland. Air India subsidiary, Alliance Air runs direct flight from Mumbai landing at Diu Airport. Local transport is also available from the nearest town of Una.

Nearby Attractions / Sightseeing places in the vicinity:

Diu Fort - The entrance to the fort has some Portuguese inscriptions engraved. One of the strategic bastion at the gate is named St. George. The uppermost arch point has the engraving of the Portuguese Royal Coat of Arms. It served as a sentinel against enemy attacks and has a double moat, cannons, and a chapel inside.
Shiva Temple, Gangeshwar coast - A lone temple on the southern coast of Diu at Fudam village.
Iconic St Paul Church - Need a visit to view its splendid facade design of Baroque style and wooden stucco work.
St Thomas church - now converted into a museum
Nadia caves - near Jalandhar beach, 1km via Hadmitya road from the city center. Watch the intermingling of orange, green, white colors from the naturally formed rock cuts, as the first sun rays pass through it. These caves are rumored to have formed when the Portuguese blasted the rocks to extra the sand for building the Diu Fort. There are other versions like geological formations, but that remains a mystery.
INS Khukri - Has an open-air amphitheater. The first frigate drowned during the Indo Pak war of 1971. Find the frigate at the Chakratirth beach. This reminds me of the INS Chapel, a Chamak class missile boat stationed at Karwar beach.
Nagao beach - Horseshoe-shaped, Pristine, palm-fringed beach approx 20min drive from Diu. The only happening beach where many water sports activities are conducted like parasailing, balloon rides, water skiing, and banana boat rides. Another being Ghoghla which also offers parasailing and surfing.
"Fort de Mar" Diu lighthouse(Caveleiro Lighthouse) - Lighthouse jutting the Diu fort overlooking the sea on a cliff. Venture on top to get a wide view of the whole city. (Climb on top is not for the faint-hearted).
Shell Museum - Housing extensive and exquisite shells
Fudan Bird sanctuary - with its exotic bird species.
Bunder Chowk - the main market area for carrying out your leisurely shopping jaunts.
"Fortress De Panikhot" - A smaller fort at the mouth of the creek in the Arabian Sea on the opposite side of the main Diu fort. It is a ship-shaped structure 1-nautical mile off the Diu Fort enclosing a lighthouse inside.
Nagarseth Ni Haveli - An amazing Indian art style haveli with colorful stucco work. It is located in the Panchavati area of Diu town.
Vanakabar fishing harbor - Days catch of fish is unloaded at this harbor. It lies 20kms from the city center. Prepare to get your olfactory glands assaulted by a strong heady aroma of the fish.
Sunset Point - To get a scintillating view of the sunset of the day at Nagao beach.

Accommodations and Hotel deals:

For accommodation discounts and deals, always go to the big daddies of travel - Tripadvisor, Makemytrip & Yatra. For those looking out for some local rustic stays, DIU provides good value for money choices near the beachside.

I have a clever trick to search for accommodations that will suit your taste and budget. Just search in Google using this phrase 'Hotels near Ilha De Cama Diu' and you will be presented with a few options wherein you can set your price range and accommodation type.

There are some decent stay options in Diu and you will be surprised at the choices of resorts and guest houses. For the uninitiated, the Circuit Guest House will cost around 1200/day. Kostamar beach resort at Nagao breach has a unique rooftop restaurant with splendid sea views. Sugati resort at the Diu Fort entrance is a pocket-friendly resort that provides a panoramic view of the sea from its complex. . For the veggie crowd, Apna hotel with its fares and dishes is a crowd puller.

Tourists attracted to the sandy golden hue of Ghogla Beach can opt for Sea View resort which is quite reasonable.

For the hipster and eclectic vibe type of crowd, there are few backpacking hostels and hotels. Notable among them is Sao Tome Retiro near the St. Thomas Church which is converted into a museum cum hotel.

Others include Hersa Goesa homestay and Hoeka Resort where prices are in the range of 3000-5000/day. For luxury ambiance, Try Hotel Laabh which is 1 km from Diu fort & 750 meters from St. Pauls church.

For those looking for a grub in a cool ambiance, a visit to Coqueiro Music Garden restaurant is a must. Try the prawn's curry which is a hot selling item. To get a whiff of fresh air on rooftop setup, Cats Eye restaurant is a stunner.

Diu for many is an idyllic getaway, but for some, it's a tipplers paradise, as alcohol is legal here. People throng to DIU to revel in the atmosphere of a bygone era.

A casual, relaxed walk through this coastal enclave is enough you give you limitless joy & peace.

The broad promenades and sun-kissed sands promise to provide the much-needed tranquility you always yearned for.

Here is the #IlhadeCalm island where time refuses to move.

"Come, explore and revel in this hidden gem to find your Isle De Calm! "

Maui : Picture-Perfect Postcard Adventure Island in the Evergreen US State of Hawaii

2020-09-30T22:56:00.444+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

[Picture Credits: "Kaihalulu Beach, Maui" by RustyGage , Pixabay is in the Public Domain, CC0]

Located in the lush green, volcanic active isle of Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean lies the secluded gem of Maui (not secluded anymore :). Known for its deepest ocean, the Pacific region encloses within its cocoon some of the finest coastal gems like Atolls, volcanoes, tropical forests, lagoons, and other marine wonders, Hawaii being one of them. Maui is heaven incarnate with swaying and rustling palm trees casting its glory on the azure waters beneath. It is rated as the best island in the USA for 22 years by Conde Nast Travelers magazine. The golden divine beaches, forested mountain stretches, and eternal sunshine make it an ideal place for a discerning traveler. It is here that you can pamper yourself at the many spas, immerse yourself at Luau organic farmers market, sip a swig at the Kula local distillery and dine on multi-ethnic cuisines.

The Hawaiin territory is renowned for its vibrant beaches, eclectic sunsets, and evergreen panorama and is replete with marine wonders and breathtaking sceneries. You can gauge the beauty of Hawaii from the numerous word-of-mouth praise stories of tourists and the ritzy beauty pageants held on its soil since the time it opened the economy to the outside world. In terms of area, Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii & 17th in the US. Although Kahului island scores in terms of commerce and finance, Maui surpasses it with its unparalleled scenery. Wailuku is the seat and capital city of Maui island. Other lesser-known places on the bucket list of travelers are Kehei, Lahaina, Pukalani, Kula, Haiku, Hana & Makawao.

[Picture Credit: "Maui " by Wrolandholst , Pixabay is in the Public Domain]

Many places are located alongside mountains, valley, beachside, and confers an amazing topography to the region. It is really blessed to be in Hawaii.

Legend states that Hawaii's name is derived from Hawaii Ilona, an early settler on the island. You can find numerous peaks dotting the island of Hawaii, and the highest of them is the Haleakala, carpeting more than 70% of the island area. Even the Maui beach is not immune from the overlapping of volcanic rocks which zigzag on the shore. The climate of Maui is characterized by marked changes based on regions.

[Picture Credits: "Maui, Hawaiʻi" by Tony Webster , Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0]

The climate of lowlands and highlands subregions vary with altitude and can be tropical based, wind-based, rain-fed, etc. Makena Beach in Maui is one stunning wonder which forms an enclosed mass in the center of the river.

Due to the warm tropical climate, Maui is home to many Humpback whales that migrate and rush here to enjoy the warm waters and mate.

[Picture Credits: "Maui, Sunet" by hmmunoz512 , Pixabay is in the Public Domain]

The whale population is concentrated in the Auau channel wedged between the Maui islands. Many whales watching adventures are conducted here during that season of whale arrivals. Maui is also home to Rain and Cloud forest but due to the wanton agricultural and coastal activities, most of the area is run off with pollution and uninterrupted tourism leading to the destruction of natural marine habitats of turtles, dolphins, and fishes.

[Picture Credits: "Maui" by dan Hutchinson , Wikimedia Commons is licensed under CC BY 3.0]

The Tahiti tribe, more specifically the Polynesians were the original inhabitants of the Maui islands. Due to its ethereal beauty, Maui was not far off from the sight of avid explorers like James Cook who was lucky to watch its shores but was unable to land due to its difficult terrain. The first sight eventually led to many explorations and Maui got its first European visitor by way of French admiral Jean-François de Galaup, who set his foot on its shores at a place called La Perouse Bay in 1786. Curiosity led to many traders, loggers, wildlife enthusiasts, missionaries, and other marine adventurers to land here in subsequent cycles. But the opening of tourist activity brought with its own peril of land exploitation, trafficking, and natural degradation. Even the population of whales showed a marked decrease due to the extraction of its oil for medicinal purposes.

The rapidly increasing population coupled with traffic and tourist growth has led to congestion, low access to water, and a housing boom which ultimately led to unaffordability. A lot of homeowners started letting their rooms on rent giving rise to vacation rentals and new real estate complexes.

Maui's economy is mostly concentrated on tourism, but retail, agriculture, services, and the IT industry also share space as secondary sectors of the economy.

[Picture Credits: "Secret Cove,Maui" by Joe Parks , Flickr is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0]

The main agricultural products are corn, seeds, cattle feed, sugar, macadamia nuts, Pineapples, Papaya seeds, and flowers.

This is not all, Maui's tourism industry boasts of pleasure activities for adventure freaks like Snorkelling, Windsurfing, Kitesurfing, Paddleboarding, helicopter rides, and Whale watching.

To relieve your hunger pangs, visit some street-side open-air restaurants which offer delectable dishes at affordable prices. Mamas Fish restaurant is one famous hippie style grab and dine restaurant.

The main attractions in Maui include Haleakala national park, which is also the highest peak at 10000 meters above sea level, Lahaina which is the smaller of the main ports, and which serves as the main city center lined with ritzy cafes and beaming restaurants. Lahaina is best visited for its panoramic sunsets and whaling pastime. Kaanapali beach is the star-studded jewel in Lahaina kitty and is visited by hordes of tourists to let their hair down and relax. Kahalui is the primary port of call for cruise liners and ships.

[Picture Credits: "IslandMauiHwaii" by Dronepicr , Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0]

Hana highway crosses Maui's east coast and winds along rugged mountains, passing through black sand beaches and milky waterfalls.

The road to economic prosperity should not be at the cost of natural degradation and for this reason, many locals have taken on the cudgels to save the environment through eco-friendly measures and Government intervention. This has generated an eco-conscious movement which is directed at the tourists.

Internal Touring of the Island: A Primer

Due to the proliferation of tourism-related ancillary business and arrivals of inbound tourists, the Govt. started what was known as the Maui Bus, a funded program for touring the island by bus. Hop on the designer buses and tour the island at nominal rates. Renting a car in Maui is easy on the pocket and there are plenty of rent a car agents to assist you. Bus trips normally cost between $2-$5. Guided bus tours, For eg: On Hana Route is navigated by Shuttle buses.

Landing on the dream island by Air:

To land in West Maui: Board at Kapalua airport.
To land in Eat Maui: Board at Hana airport.
To land in Central Maui: Board at the Kahalui International airport, which is most commercial & busiest.

For healthcare and 24/7 medical facilities: Visit the 3 main healthcare centers located in most of the areas of Maui.

Maui medical center (Located in the central town of Wailuku)
Hana medical center (Located in South East of Maui)
Kula hospital (Located in the remote rural town of Kula)
Lanai medial center (In Lanai island neighboring Maui)

All the facilities are located in close vicinity of Maui island.

Maui has something to offer for every class of tourists from family, solo, and business class. Family excursions, hiking trails, and rural rustic farm tours are some splendid offerings from Maui's tourist itinerary.

Find an Accommodation in Maui, Hawaii to Unwind and relax: Hawaii is one of the magnificent islands in the world and is rated as the top 20 islands in the USA. It is not a surprise to find even honeymooners and Event planners descending on this slice of paradise year after year. Kaanapali beachfront hotel is one truly amazing and typical Hawaiin type hotel wherein you'll be spoilt for choices.

Check the link to find reasonable and pocket-friendly accommodation options:https://cutt.ly/Lf95MBQ
For signature dining options, visit the link: https://cutt.ly/of9599

Main Airport: Kahalui airport is the primary airport and second-biggest commercial airport in Hawaii. It serves as the major hub for interisland travel by Hawaiin airlines. Kahului can be reached nonstop from major cities in the USA. Kapalua and Hana are secondary airports for traveling to other local islands.

Exit the airport and reach either Lahaina and Kaanapali where majority of hotels are concentrated.

What to shop for:

Being a tourist haven, Maui is littered with shopping centers and supermarkets where you can shop at leisure for trinkets, souvenirs, relics, clothing, cultural artifacts, etc. Need some flea market experience, then Kihei is worth a visit. ABC Stores can be found all over the island and comes to your rescue from normally inflated rates at superstores.

You can fly from Maui to other islands via a short-haul flight. Honolulu is well connected to Maui and there are frequent flights to and fro. Catamarans ply nearly 4-5 times a day between some islands like Lahaina and Lanai. The travel time is approx 1 hr and costs $25 per travelers per direction.

Exiting from the Hawaiian islands to the US Mainland requires strict checking of luggage for any agricultural produce (mainly pineapples and papaya) to contains fruit fly disease.

Currency Traded: $US

Best time to visit: Summers and winters are the most appropriate times to visit Maui island.

The coolest month is February and the hottest month is August. So you can plan the trip accordingly based on your seasonal preference. May-Oct also has some pleasant weather devoid of crowds. Nov-March starts the rainy season and also peak times when you find crowd swelling in numbers. Labour Day & Thanksgiving Day are the two times when the airfare and accommodation rates are the lowest.

Maui has been on the radar of Hollywood celebrities and Page 3 crowd for a long time due to its radiant beaches and glamour quotient. Not only celebrities but seekers of truth and spiritual mavens flock to Maui for some peaceful vibes and soak in its untouched beauty.

Some cultural terms for befriending the locals: The Hawaiian language is derived from Polynesian dialect and is a mix of Swahili, Samoa, Tahiti, Maori, etc... which are the Austronesian language mix. 'Pidgin' is the slang language mostly used by locals to converse.

Hello / Goodbye - Aloha
How are you - Pehea Oe
Thank you - Mahalo
Where is this place - Aia I Keia Wahi
How much? - Ehia
Anything less - Kekahi Mea Emi
Bathroom - Lua
Help - Kokua

Top Cities and significance:

Hana - Isolated town on the east coast of Maui renowned for rainforests, green pastures, and black sand beaches
Haiku - Maui's cultural melting pot. Known for agricultural and plantations estates.
Kahului - Main airport is located here. It is a commercial and transportation hub.
Kaanapali - A tourist frequented place where major festivals are conducted. Close to Lahaina.
Kapalua - Prominent place for golfing events. Also boasts of luxurious resorts, boutiques, and award-spinning restaurants.
Kihei - Features famous condos and beaches and is close to the Haleakala volcano region.
Lahaina - Famous whaling tour center and also houses museums and galleries.
Paia - Renowned town for windsurfing, and kitesurfing adventures.
Wailuku - Central seat of Hawaiin government, and contains list of prominent storefronts.
Lao valley - A nature, hiking, and wellness center.
'Road to Hana' - A unmissable slice of Hawaiin adventure. Encounter peaks, valleys, tropical flowers, tranquil ponds, bamboo jungles, gurgling waterfalls on this 50 mile Hana Road trip traversing through 54 one way bridges and 600 hairpin curves.
Haleakala national park - Home to the endangered SilverSword plant and exotic flora and fauna.

Helpful links for an immersing experience:

For local brewing experience: To enjoy the local brew flavors and Hawaiin hospitality,

visit: https://mauibrewingco.com/

For wellness and spiritual retreats: https://lumeriamaui.com/
For Coffee addicts: https://mauicoffeeroasters.com/
Local outlets: https://www.outletsofmaui.com/
Pineapple cultivation tours: https://mauipineappletour.com/
Airline for Interisland travel: https://www.hawaiianairlines.com/island-guide/maui
Wine brewing tours: https://mauiwine.com/
Maui Film Festival: https://www.mauifilmfestival.com/
Maui Mexican Food connect: https://mauitacos.com/
Best Maui cultural extravaganza: https://www.dukesmaui.com/
Explore the underwater world of Maui: https://atlantisadventures.com/maui/
Encyclopedia of Maui: https://www.hawaii-guide.com/maui
Maui Information Guide: https://www.mauiinformationguide.com/
Top things to do in Maui: In order to truly enjoy your Maui trip, I recommend you check this: https://cutt.ly/nf8eYWJ

Extra reference link:: (Take it easy in Hawaii - Zero in your preferences and don't confuse with too many offers) - https://cutt.ly/Bf3qfzy

HAWAII is truly a paradise to those who experience it.

Do you want to Escape, Unwind, and Relax from the HumBum of life?

Then its time to visit Maui, Hawaii, and utter 'ALOHA', 'HO OPONOPONO' & 'KAHUNA'.

Macha Pichu - The Lost Ancient Wonder City of Inca Civilization in [Cusco, Peru]

2020-08-31T17:52:00.591+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

[Picture Credits: "Macha Pichu Peru" by Diego Delso, Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0]

If there is one place that truly depicts Peru and its famed culture, it is the Macha Pichu historical site. Located at an altitude of 8000ft on a mountain ridge, between the Peruvian Andes mountains and the Amazon basin, this 15th century Inca citadel is truly a breathtaking Inca masterpiece that is surrounded by staggering zigzag terraced fields for farming. Its location along pristine waters and surrounded by towering and gigantic Andean peaks is truly awe-inspiring.

Macha Pichu is the mysterious place in the cloud forest which the ancient historians mentioned ages back.

The correct geographic location of Macha Pichu is in Eastern Cordillera>Cusco Region>Urubamba Province>MachaPichu district>in South Peru. This breadcrumb trail is shown to help first-time visitors so that they don't lose their way. Macha Pichu is located in the famous Peruvian Andes mountains of South America above the sacred valley, some 80kms NW of Cuzco. The roaring Urubamba river crosses the Macha Pichu region along the sacred valley creating a grand canyon which is nothing short of a spectacle. The region is blessed with a tropical mountain climate, where you can also enjoy river rafting activities along the Urubamba River.

The material for its construction was extracted from the banks of the Urubamba river, some 30kms from the site. Historians and archeologists are puzzled about how the Incas transported the stones without any heavy machines during those times. Speculation was rife that it was built during a previous cult that existed there who used already scattered stones from there or may have been constructed by the hand of aliens. But no one is sure of the truth.

Archeologists are of the opinion that the Macha Pichu region was constructed as a royal estate for Inca emperor Pachacuti. A spectacular icon of Inca heritage, Macha Pichu was shrouded in mystery and untouched even during the Spanish Conquest till it was discovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911 which catapulted it to international acclaim.

The outer facade was built using polished white dry stones which provided the structure a rugged exterior.

The 5 most prominent structures in Macha Pichu are the Monolithic shrine of Sacred Plaza, mysteriously cut Intihuitana stone, a Room with 3 windows, the unusual Royal mausoleum, and the elegant Sun Temple.

In local Quecha terminology, Macha Pichu means the 'Old Mountain'. The Incas abandoned the site after ruling it for 80yrs due to the Spanish conquests leaving behind a trail of golden heritage. You can find animals like llama & Alcapas here which are not native to the region but brought for their meat and pelts.

The panoramic view of Machu Pichu can truly be enjoyed all year long, except for the rainy season.

[Picture Credits: "Macha Pichu " by Martin St-Amant , Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

This site is located in an earthquake-prone fault zone and historians are perplexed as to why the Incas selected this location. Here we understand why the Incas were called master masons. Macha Pichu was constructed using big stone blocks without mortar for efficient water drainage and in case of earthquake vibrations, the stones simply would 'dance' and settle at its original position. This also provided the Incas ready availability of fractured stones in case of any eventuality. The Incas were adept at this technique of fractured stone construction called 'Ashlar'.

[Picture Credits: "Llama on Macha pichu" by Alexandre Buisse, Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

The agricultural terraced fields were held using hard granite stones and due to superior drainage system remained solid even ages later. The skill and genius of Inca engineering are further testified by the series of 'Aqueducts' and water systems they built which extended up to 1 km. These structures served as agricultural supplements to increase arable land and for the bathing purposes for the Inca population. The Andean region is known to be water scarce and the advanced water harvesting techniques adapted and Tipon channel system built by the Incas showed their civil & hydraulic engineering prowess.

[Picture Credits: "Terrace Farming " by RAF-YYC, Flickr is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

Water was chiefly sucked through the rivers and the freshwater springs on the mountains. The spot was best suited for defense against enemies due to the altitude and also for its single wall entry system into the palatial city. The artistic stone masonry and the temple surroundings with manicured terrace farms were the hallmarks of Inca engineering.

The exact significance of Macha Pichu still remains a mystery. Historians believe it to be a secret ceremonial site for Inti or Sun God, a royal retreat for the Inca nobles, military barracks, a fortified site, astronomical observatory, a final pilgrim destination for the Incas, a sanctuary for the Virgins of Sun, an elite women group, and many more along the Inca trail but its true significance remains unknown. It is believed to be a fabled & mysterious city even for the Peruvians.

[Picture Credits: "Intihuatana" by Fabricio Guzmán, Wikipedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

The entry of Spanish conquerors pushed the Inca cult to other hidden locations like Vilcabamba and Espiritu Pampa, which is a much larger settlement. Archeologists believe that unraveling the dense overgrowth, bamboo thickets, and Vine mess will reveal more hidden trails.

The high and hidden location rendered it inaccessible to strangers and conquerors alike. The entry to Macha Pichu is through a short but sturdy Inca bridge across a sheer cliff. To the east of Macha Pichu lies the Acropolis, a temple district ('Don't mistake to consider it to the Greek one').

The orientation of this site is influenced by the holy mountains or the 'Apus' which lies in the vicinity.

[Picture Credits: "Intihuatana Solar Clock" by Jordan Klein, Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0]

If we take a snapshot structurally, the area is divided into 3 parts - The Agricultural area, the Royal or Imperial area & the Urban center for common masses. Macha Pichu area is divided according to the class of people. The residential area houses the 'wise men' or 'Amautas', the 'princess' or 'nustas' quarters which have trapezoidal rooms, and the common 'sacred' neighborhood.

[Picture Credit: "Trapezoidal Rooms" by Martin St-Amant, Wikimedia.org is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

All the temples are engineered to catch the first sun rays, with the slopes reflecting the temple Huyana Pichu in the background which confers a visual spectacle to the entire area.

Other famous sites include - Sacred stones, Noble quarters, the Temple of Condor & the ritual fountain fed by spring waters. The tropical rainforest of Macha Pichu also hosts many exotic plants & animals too.

Tourists gather in hordes during the Inti Raymi or Sun Festival that is held on June 22 (Winter Solstice). Locals are of the opinion that some stones are sacred and emit energies, which can be felt with your bare hands.

Due to massive tourist inflow and historic legacy, the Peruvian Govt. declared it as a historic sanctuary in 1981. It even achieved a UNESCO World Heritage tag in 1983 and was listed as 7th New Wonder of the world.

How to get there ---->

The remote location of Macha Pichu rules out straight road access, so one option will be to hop on a train from Aguas Calientes, a town located near a station at the base of the valley. This town is the closest to Macha Pichu.

You can also opt for adventure walks which will take a strenuous 2 hrs. Preferable for large groups used to chit-chatting.

International Travelers: Visitors arriving by flights will land at Lima, the capital of Peru. Due to the late evening arrival in Lima, there is no connecting flight to the next closest town that is Cusco.

For lodging & accommodations, you can pre-book Miraflores hotel, 45 min drive from the airport. The hotel near the airport is not pedestrian-friendly, but you can still try it you don't want to travel further after the journey.

By Train:

Before trekking to Macha Pichu, book your tickets through an authorized agent online.

The far by easiest option is to take an Inca or Peru train from Cusco(Poroy station) cruising along the Urubamba valley, and then by bus up to the entrance of the site ruins.

Some other casual options are Classic Inca trails, which is an arduous 24 - 26-mile trek. This trek is longer but more scenic as you will encounter many archaeological and historical ruins and it takes to directly to the Sun Gate of Macha Pichu.

For the novice, it will be better to take a Peru based registered guide, destination travel agencies, or go pre-planned by downloading online guides. If these options doesn't suit your tastes, utilize Google Maps until you get the network signals, and then ask your way out.

Few other options are navigating through the Lares and Vilcabamba treks which traverses the same distance as the Classic Inca Trail.

Longer routes are the 6-day Salkantay trek, wherein the discerning trekker can opt for lodge & resort stay options. The final circular route to follow is to take a bus from Cuzco to Chacora village which links many ancient Inca ruins & peaks along the way. In between, there is an arduous 1500m slog way from the Apurimac river to Macha Pichu.

There are other shorter and cheaper routes by Bus or Taxi rides. Here trekkers take a circuitous route from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, another hit archeological site. You can travel by bus or cab which debits you by $5 to $13.

Overall the shortest distance( in order ) to the fabled site starts at Aguas Calientes, Sacred Valley - Ollantaytambo, and Cusco.

For the daredevils who need extra adventure, there are plenty of guided tours and activities, which can be found at website VIATOR.COM

Note: Fainthearted and nauseating types of people can take a shot of Cocoa leaf tea and which nullifies the effects of Headaches, altitude sickness & nausea.

You can get luckier if you plan an alternate shorter route through the use of online maps & of course your intellect.

For Visa and other formalities from different countries, kindly check this trusted World Travel and Tourism Safe Travel Protocol website G Adventures:

https://www.gadventures.co.uk/trips/wellness-peru-machu-picchu-the-sacred-valley/SPCCW/

(You can also book your own private room on this website)

The entry ticket to MachaPichu can be bought at Ministerio de Cultura in Cuzco or Aguas Calientes and.costs in between $30-$100 (may alter as per Govt. policies). All the travel policies and entry related information is listed on the Government website at Machapichu.gob.pe

The hotels and hostels in Cusco, Lima & Ollaytaytambo can also arrange for travel and local guide formalities if you ask for it.

Site visit timings: 6am - 6 pm

Where to Eat:

Due to the restrictions of visitors and captive audience at the site, the prices at the entrance are exorbitant and a meal plate usually costs $40. A bottle of water costs around $8, also steeply priced.

· Tinkuy Buffet restaurant at Belmond sanctuary lodge: You can get casual lunch over here which is decent.

· Tampu Bar cum restaurant, again in Belmond sanctuary lodge - Reserved for hotel inmates only. Prices are steep over here.

· Macha Pichu Pueblo Hotel - Located in lush jungles in the cloud forest.

· Gringos Bill Restaurant.

·Macha Pichu Green Nature Hotel (Close to Huyana Pichu) - Check detail information at Agoda.com

There are other reasonable dining options in Aguas Calientes(30 min form Macha Pichu). A few are listed below:

· Earthy Tree House restaurant (Peru-Asian specialty)

· Indo Felix (French - local specialty)

· Casa Del Sol

·Sumaq Hotel

·Casa Andina

· La Cabana (a B&B type of restaurant)

Bring your own water as the rates are exorbitant at the entrance. For the first-timer's information, snacks are sold at the site entrance. Eating is also strictly disallowed inside the ruins.

When to Visit: If the Andean valleys summon you, then visiting in April - October periods is apt, as these are the driest and sunny months.

Where to Stay / Accommodation:

Being a protected area, the construction is limited and there is not much you can do to let your head down. One expensive option is Macha Pichu Sanctuary Lodge which is near to the ruins. There are 2 luxury suites in the hotel which provide some hide and seek views of the site, but the night scenery is eclectic. If you intend to stay on a reserved budget, then there are options down the valley at Aguas Calientes.

Nearby Attractions:

· Huayna Picchu: Incan mountain ruins at a height of 2700 meters above sea level.

·Inti Pinku - Situated atop a mountain peak. This was a prominent spot in Inca heritage and it served as a Sun doorway to the Macha Pichu citadel. You can spot an array of orchids and Bromeliads along the path.

·Laras Hot springs - A world-famous wellness center, enclosing a medicinal hot spring.

·Grand cavern - Where Inca women would pray and offer sacrifices to the Mother Earth.

·Artisans Wall - Depicts the finesse of the Inca craftsmen

·Caretakers Hut & Guards Quarters - Names are self-explanatory

The mystical charm of this citadel set up against the carpet of the lush green mountain is a wonder to the sight. Macha Pichu is no doubt Peru's best-kept tourism secret.

The Incas chose the location due to its superior astrological significance and sacred coordinates.

It is recorded that there were 600-700 terraced fields which acted as a bulwark to the soil from sliding down. It was also an ideal location for agricultural activities along with religious studies. At the height of its glory, the Macha Pichu housed many learned scholars and experts in different fields, which catered to the needs of the minuscule Inca population.

Closing Chapter:

Macha Pichu is an important cultural landmark of Peru and the main revenue generator. Millions of tourists soak in the splendor of this amazing man-made wonder. The Precincts, storage houses, bathhouses, temples sanctuaries, stone canals, stairways, tombs, and the white granite ruins hidden among the vegetation all evoke the nostalgia of the glorious days passed by.

Macha Pichu was not constructed for the tourist peaks and talks are on to preserve the sanctity of the structure from the massive rush. The Peru government has already begun the process of protecting it by introducing a token/permit system for limiting travelers.

The government has taken a hard call with revenue on one side and age-old legacy at the another end.

Before leaving this amazing and stunning Peruvian Inca palace, bask in its glory by absorbing its mysterious aura and the hallowed walls of the ruins.

Head back to your pavilion with renewed vigor and strength in your feet taking along the memories of the mysterious Inca heritage.

Special Tip: As a remembrance, you can get your passport stamped with the Macha Pichu stamp.

Some Useful Reference Links:

1. https://rb.gy/stocsv

2.https://rb.gy/x2vrof

3.https://rb.gy/mnkh1b

4.https://rb.gy/4vayxr (A Detailed guide to reach Macha Pichu)

5.https://www.rome2rio.com/ (Website listing optimal travel options from any city in the world).

Angkot Wat Temple Complex - The Heart and Soul of Cambodia in South East Asia

2020-07-29T01:50:00.030+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

[Angkor Wat at Sunrise]
[Picture Credits: "Cambodia-2638B - Angkor Wat" by Dennis Jarvis, Flickr is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0]

Angkor Wat was originally constructed as a Hindu temple and a capital city dedicated to the God Vishnu by Khymer King Suryavarman in the first half of 12th century.

But by the end of the 12th century, it was considered a Buddhist site. Theravada Buddhism gained popularity by that time, and maybe the reason for the change. Angkor Wat is the most popular tourist and heritage spot in Cambodia located in the Siem Reap region in Northern Cambodia, around 5-6 km away from the temple complex.

There are other temples in the vicinity which I will cover later, one of them being the location for the iconic film 'Tomb Raider' shoot. This sprawling temple complex is considered a 7th wonder in the world due to the remote location and massive area, which is around 400 acres. In ancient times, it was a prosperous and fertile city having a population of around 1 million people. It also achieved the sobriquet as the 'City of temples' due to numerous temples in and around the vicinity of Angkor Wat. It was also called 'Praha Vishnuloka' in ancient times and regarded as a sacred dwelling of Lord Vishnu. At times it was thought to be a 'Jetavana' garden of Buddha, similar to the one in Magadha, Bihar, India.

There was a deep cultural connection between India & Cambodia right from 1 Century BCE. This is reflected in Sanskrit inscriptions found on the temple walls, resident brahmin priests, pottery findings, the discovery of Brahmi script, similar astronomical calculations, Gupta style architecture, and worshipping of deities Hanuman and Shiva.

In fact, this temple was called India's twin and was inspired by the Mahabalipuram temple in TN. Legend states that Suryavarman was a descendent of Cholas, the rulers of Tamil Nadu. Much of the temple was constructed in sandstone with 15 feet high walls surrounded by a moat, which protected the city from foreign invasion. A straight causeway joins right to the temple complex.

Angkor was also renowned for its excellent rainwater harvesting canals, reservoirs, and dikes, the largest of which spanned 8kms. This is nothing but an engineering feat. Even the moats depicted the design of the Hindu cosmic mountain of Mount Meru.

The temple complex soars majestically in the forested area and was first discovered by a French Naturalist Henri Mahout in 1860, and termed it as next only to Temple of Solomon in majesty. But the first western visitor was Antonio Madalena, a Portuguese Capuchin friar who was awestruck by the monumental architecture with sky-high towers, and aesthetic designs. He further went on to say that "There is no building in the world which can rival in grace and refinements as this, which only a genius could conceive in his mind. This is even grander than anything left by the Romans & Greeks".

It has 5 huge lotus-shaped towers that raise 65 meters into the sky which is mind-blowing. The empire spanned much of South East Asia, spreading from Cambodia, Burma, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, etc..

The first level exterior walls have Bass reliefs depictions and carvings of deities, animal figures, celestial dancers (apsaras/nymphs), and is a sight to behold. Even the mythological churning of the ocean 'Samudra Manthana' is depicted on the exterior walls. Photography is allowed at the temple site, but its best to take a shot during sunset and sunrise periods, which is truly magical.

The temple complex has achieved cult status and is depicted on Cambodia's National Flag, coins, stamps & currency notes. This is one of the hidden and lost civilizations of the yesteryears, whose beauty and construction is unparalleled. Further 25miles north of Angkor, you can unravel the ruins of the lost, hidden, and first capital city of the Khmer Empire, Mahendraparvata, which was the building template for the construction of Angkor Wat

If you want to understand the architectural and engineering marvels of olden times, then a visit to Phnom Pehn and Siem Reap is a must. Angkor Wat was the largest religious complex in the whole world during its heydays, and even now. But with the passage of times and vagaries of nature, the sprawling complex is in the grip of the huge Banyan tree and Silk cotton tree roots, which has choked it on all sides. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and was considered the largest city before the industrial era.

Tourists specially visit this temple for its sunrise and sunset which is a visual spectacle.

Some other famous temples in the vicinity are Bayon and Ta Prohm. Phnom Bakheng is a 70 feet high hill from where you can catch a glimpse of the temple. The smallest temple site is Ta Som and the largest is Preah Khan which are near to the Angkor Wat temple complex. Preah khan was a large Buddhist monastery, housing over 1000 monks.

Ta Prohm was made famous by the shoot of the iconic film of Lara Croft 'Tomb Raider' and it catapulted this temple to international acclaim.

[Picture Credits: "Ta Prohm" by Stefan Fussan , Wikimedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0]

Bayon is another spectacular temple, that has many mysterious smiling stone faces chiseled with utmost precision. It is richly decorated with bass reliefs of mythological figures. It is the only Angkorian temple built as per the Mahayana style of Buddhism. It is so-called due to the many representations of Buddha's faces depicting him as Avalokiteshwara or Lokeshwara.

The original name of Bayon was 'Jayagiri' or Victory mountain.

King Jayavarman considered himself the Bodhisattva or Devraja (King God).

[Picture Credits: "Bayon Temple, Angkor " by Harald Hoyer from Schwerin, Germany, Wikimedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0]

Open Timings for visiting Angkor Wat: 5am to 7pm.

Arrival Formalities:

There is a facility for Visa on Arrival (VOA) for a tourist visa which costs around $30 and can be obtained at Phnom Pehn and Siem Reap airports.

The Cambodian Riel and US dollars are the officially accepted currencies here. The dollar is traded at almost all places, except for street-side stores. You can trade here in a mix of Riel & Dollars.

For your information, 1 Dollar = 4 Cambodian Riels. Purchasing SIM cards is very easy and you can find them at airports for $5(25G). At retailers, you can source Smart SIM Cards for $3 with 1-month validity.

How to get to Angkor:

The religious town of Siem Reap can be reached by bus(IBIS Bus=Almost $17) or taxi from Phnom Penh which takes about 6 hrs. You can also travel by waterways, at around the same time as road travel from the capital city. Siem Reap has its own airport and you can reach Phnom Penh, Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Singapore from here.

Booking.com &12GoAsia.com have very good options for getting ideas on the travel itinerary, schedules, and prices beforehand to save a great deal of your time and energy.

Navigating through Khmer is only by Tuk Tuk and you can avail them for $1-$2. You can also download Grab App for getting an even cheaper deal.

Entrance Pass:

You need a valid Angkor complex pass to pass in the Angkor Archeological Park without which you can be fined. Passes are available for 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, etc.. If you purchase a multi-day pass, then you can enter in any day to visit the complex. There is a validity period for a 3 & 7-day pass which is printed on the ticket.

When to visit:

The peak season starts from December till May. Rains are unforgiving, so better plan your trip during winters and summers.

How to plan the visit:

Balloon rides give an aerial glimpse of the temple. If you want to visit some other complexes and off the beaten structures, then you can hire a cab or motorbike with registered guides. Siem Reap town is urbanized, and you will find plenty of lodging, dining, and tour package options.

Cultural aspects & Seasonal necessities:

Angkor Wat has a hot, tropical climate and its best acclimatized by wearing sunscreen, cap & UV Sunglasses. It's best to enjoy this place in light clothing. The rainy season demands a sturdy umbrella and boots. The hard terrain can take a toll on your shoes, so try to wear rugged shoes with hard soles.

You can tip the tour guides and waiters as a token of good service in Siem Reap.

There are numerous vendors, stalls, and restaurants selling their wares around the temple complex. You can bargain for Souvenirs, guide books, snacks, etc.. Beverages are pricey, so it's better to carry your own bottle.

You can hire an authorized guide and Tuk Tuk for navigating the temple complex. But since its a world heritage site, there are unregistered guides too, trying to make a quick buck.

Navigating the temple complex in a Tuk-Tuk costs $13 for 7hrs, but there's also a $5 extra charge for pickup at sunrise.

If you plan to hire a vehicle, then it is the norm here to drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Some cultural Lingo to learn:

Susadei - 'Hello'
Ot Thei - 'No'
Arkun - 'Thank You'

Popular local beverages:

Tomb Raider cocktail made famous by Lara Croft film 'Tomb Raider'
Anchor beer

If you prefer outdoor settings then visit Temple Bare, which is the best rooftop bar in Siem Reap.

Drinking Spots:

Miss Wong - Old world charm bar with lanterns, and vintage items all over.
Angkor Wat - Chic pub which serves drinks by a bucket.

Gastronomy spots:

Mie Cafe - Offers succulent meat dishes and fish menu.
Cuisine Wat Damnak: This is a restaurant with traditional Cambodian style cooking.

Hotels in Siem Reap:

Budget hostel - Chilled Backpacker(quiet and decent)
Mid-tier hotel - Baby Elephant Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel - Everland
Luxury Hotel - Belmond Angkor has private balconies constructed using locally crafted materials. Walls are adorned with bespoke artwork created by contemporary Cambodian artists.

The first two hotels are located in the Wat Bo area, around 10-15 min walk from the riverside to the city center. Luxury hotels such as Park Hyatt & Angkor Note residence are also favored by high-end tourists. Bopha Angkor is a chic hotel with spacious rooms, very near to Siem Reap. Do visit Blue Pumpkin Cafe for light snacks and icecreams. This is a famous hanging spot for expatriates and tourists.

Iconic Shopping Areas:

Made in Cambodia Market - Locals only artisan market where you can scout for local woven scarves, woven straw bags, wooden sculptures, and other souvenirs items to take as a memory.
Artisans Angkor - Local enterprise which promotes the rural Khmer craft, wood carvings, stone arts, and handmade products.

Bets Travel Deal websites: (Assuming you have taken your travel insurance)

Airbnb: Local homestays and apartments in cities, rented by homeowners. You even get a discount on your first stay.
Momondo: A classic flight search engine.
Hostelword: Hostel search engine.
Agoda: Best hotel booking search engine.

Nearby attractions in Siem Reap:

Angkor Palace - Palace of King Jayavarman.
Angkor Elephant terrace - 1000ft elephant terrace. It was a viewing gallery during public & royal ceremonies.
Srah Srang: Known as the 'Royal Baths', since it was a popular bathing area.
Tonle Sap Lake - The tourism department conducts sailing adventures here. It is considered the largest lake in Asia, where people reside in floating villages.

Angkor Wat Parting Notes:

Even today you will find monks from all over South Asia and curious tourists hoarding this temple complex. Angkor Wat was the famed 'Yashodhapura' reclaimed from the annals of history and time.

Cambodia famed temple, the ancient stone city, and its decrepit stones have a lot of enduring tales to narrate. It is rightly called the cultural treasure of Cambodia and Cambodians as a whole can go any mile to guard it.

This was the same magical place filled with grandeur, majesty, and harmony and located in lush dense jungles, that olden historical chroniclers mentioned eons ago.

Some historians and merchants even publicized a romanticized notion of a deserted temple town emerging from a hidden, mysterious jungle.

The impressive craftsmanship of the royal palace of Jayavarman, one of the famous Angkor kings and exquisite detailing of the 1000 elephant terrace is just remarkable.

Angkor Wat in its restored original state will rival even the best of monuments existing today. It's magnificence and majesty speak of a luxury surpassing even of Pharoah or Taj Mahal.

Angkor Wat is built in the Angkor Thom style of art. It's detailing, sculptural works, symmetry, composition, and proportions make it a masterpiece of yore.

Its depiction of the cosmic abode of Gods, Mount Meru truly relates to it.

Angkor Wat is a compulsory stop for any tourist visiting Cambodia. The picturesque backdrop of the setting sun is truly a wonder, and travelers will surely treasure the memories of wandering in the sprawling ruins forever.

An epitome of Khmer architecture and epicenter of Cambodia's tourism industry, Angkor Wat is an unforgettable experience.

Before winding, I truly wish everyone visit this breathtaking fabled city, whose facade and ruins never fail to surprise.

Sacred Gokarna - Picture-Perfect Tourist Town in Karnataka, India

2020-06-30T19:44:00.167+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

'Go Goa' has always been the hippie cry during the 70s and 80s, but did you know that they were also attracted to the fascinating coastal town of Gokarna, in the Western Ghat region. Gokarna was the quiet performer among the other coastal towns, but its hold on the tourist circuit swelled from the 90s. Gokarna's prominence grew to a level where hippie trails just ended here and continued. The hippies entering Goa also made sure to halt at their next pitstop - Gokarna. Hordes of hippies with their carefree lifestyle, banana shorts, Hawaiin shirts, and strumming guitars landed here in gay abandon as if they had found their next beach haven. Gokarna means 'Cows Ear' and hence the name. It is at the confluence of serene Gangavalli and roaring Aganashini river. Gokarna is hailed as one of the seven 'Muktishalas' in the state of Karnataka.

"OM BEACH" by Sankara Subramanian , Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Although famous for its religious significance and rustic ambiance, Gokarna's fame has spread across international borders. The reason for its sudden tourism growth was due to its uninterrupted and hidden location. Now it's not a sleepy town anymore. Cafes, resorts, adventure activities, and yoga communes have changed the landscape to a stage, where you will not believe that this is the same Gokarna of the 70s. It is also a spot where film shoots have taken place, and commercialization has taken place rapidly.

Tourists & pilgrims alike have a special affinity to 2 attractions in Gokarna, and for which it is most known for - Mahabaleshwar Temple & the world-famous OM Beach (naturally shaped 'Om' symbol carved on the banks). If you belong to any of the categories of people and have missed these spots, then probably you have not seen Gokarna fully. Even Shivaji Maharaj visited a temple in Gokarna before conquering Sadashivgad in Karwar.

The ethereal beauty of Gokarna's coast has no parallels in Karnataka. It's for this reason, some hippies extended their visas and stayed back to enjoy the Vedic era period passed by. Another beach which has risen to prominence is the white sand Malpe beach in Mangalore & ever frequented Murdeshwar beach which is near Gokarna.

"Mahabaleshwar temple" by Nvvchar , Wikimedia is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Let me now describe the ancient and sacred Mahabaleshwar temple which has catapulted Gokarna to International stardom. The 4th-century temple has a unique shaped AtmaLingam not present in any of the temples of India. It is said that you get blessed by just gazing at it. The classical Dravidian style architecture of the temple has captured the attention of history buffs and curators. Other temples of interest in Gokarna are - Adi Gomateshwara, Ganapati, and Koli Theertha. Just near the temple, standing majestically is a huge chariot depicting the ancient glory of this place. You will also find a holy water tank called 'Pushkarini' where you can do the ablution. One word of caution - Improperly attired visitors are strictly barred from entering this temple.

[Deepak Patil / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]

Before closing the spiritual chapter, let me also mention an extremely beautiful black granite statue of Adi Shankaracharya which is often bypassed by visitors for visiting Mahabaleshwar temple. It is located on the beach facing the sea, and just behind the Mahabaladeva temple.

This statue is often mistaken to be that of Gautam Buddh. This iconic and imposing statue sits majestically on a parapet overlooking the sea and looks stunning. This revered Hindu saint set up his first spiritual center(Mutt) here, and propagated the Vedic Advaita philosophy to North India. Legend states that he meditated here and stayed twelve out of his thirty-two years in Gokarna.

"Barnacles encrusting wood" by James St. John , Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Finally, those visiting Gokarna beaches can expect to find a unique formation of Acorn Barnacles, crustaceans living on rocky cliffs and shores which is a sight to behold. These stunning creatures draw water through the legs and appear very leathery on the surface.

How to Reach Gokarna - >

International tourist: The nearest airport is Dabolim, Vasco in Goa, which is 140 km away. You can hire a prepaid cab or take a bus. The journey time is approx. 6 hrs (may vary based on traffic). Direct buses available from the main cities of Goa - Panjim, Margao & Vasco.

You can hire a bus online on portals like MakeMyTrip, Redbus.in, Yatra, etc.
For rail travel, you can book online on IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, Expedia.in, etc.

Domestic Tourist:

Nearest railhead: Ankola, 20 km away, Gokarna Road - 7 km, Kumta - 30km, Karwar - 60km
By Bus: There is conveyance from Vasco, Panjim, Margao, the main cities in Goa. KSRTC buses are available from Bengaluru, Pune, Mumbai also.

Hotels/Accommodations near Om Beach, Gokarna: (Check Tripadvisor, Agoda for best deals)

Viraz Valley
Coconut Tree Resort
Theera Stay Inn
White Elephant Cottages
Sarvodaya Nature Retreat - Costly with seaside hill views
Cocopeli Guest House
SwaSwara Eco-friendly resort - Favored by organic folks, SwaSwara is back to nature type property housing natural elements.
Anariya Beach Front
Namaste Yoga Farm
Zostel Gokarna (for hostel-type crowd)
Namaste Cafe - Famous beachside cafe
Hostelavie - Cheap at 300/ night in the single bed dormitory system. In house cafe, Ocean Pearl provides dishes at the best rates.
Mud/Coconut twig Shacks - You will be lucky to stay in :)
Red Earth Gokarna

The rates for hotels in Gokarna suit every budget travelers and range between 300- 15000 (may vary)

Nearby Attractions / Scenic Places:

Iconic Joga Falls (2hrs drive) - Famous for the milky white cascading waters, originated at the river Sharavati
Murdeshwar Beach (2hrs drive via NH66 - almost 80km) - Famous for gigantic Shiva statue and towering Gopuras(domes)
Kudle Beach - Close to Om beach with multiple lodging facilities. Laidback & located amidst multiple cliffs, watch the unending waves at your leisure.
Karwar Rabindranath Tagore Beach - 2hrs journey reversing 70kms via NH66. A haven for peace-loving beachgoers.
Paradise and Half-moon Beaches - Close to main Om beach, but spread out on rugged terrain. Mostly frequented by foreigners, so keep your etiquette when visiting these beaches. These Isolated & sublime beaches can be reached by local speed boats
Rustic villages of Bankikodla & Hanihalli - Twin villages with an old-world vibe. The Gangavalli river flows north of the village and joins the Arabian Sea
Gokarna Beach - Main beach in this temple town, people prefer to sunbathe here before venturing in the Mahabaleshwar temple.
Yana caves - Naturally formed limestone caves with unusual shapes (1 1/2hr, from Gokarna Rd)
Mirjana Fort - Built by Queen Chennabharadevi (30min)
Nirvana Beach - To get a dose of Nirvana. Near to Om beach.

Religious Purchases - There are various stalls selling genuine Rudraksha-Malas (Hindu religious rosaries), trinkets, souvenirs & relics. Haggle with vendors before buying, you may get a steal.

In the casual category, Harem pants are also available along with Dream Catchers, Croquet balls, etc.

Best time to visit: Oct-March. Summers are hot and evenings pleasant. You can also stroll at night under the star-studded skies for some soul searching and romantic outings.

Ending Notes:

Gokarna is definitely an offbeat paradise for 'Nirvana'. If you want to avoid the madding crowds of Goa, Kerala, and other heavily trafficked destinations, then you should give this mural hamlet a try. You can also indulge in Beach camping, treehouse stay, tent house, and adventure activities at your leisure. Gokarna is one of the few exotic beaches with a hill station vibe, green valleys coexisting amidst cliffs, groves, caves, coves giving it an eternal feel with a celestial orchestra.

If you want to indulge in Sun, Sand, Sea, and divine serenity, then you should keep Gokarna in your bucket list. This is a perfect destination for Photographers, backpackers, and Instagrammers. If you like to be at untainted beaches and do nothing, then this is a perfect place for you. Gokarna is all about fusion and co-existence.

For more details on this place, Visit http://www.gokarnatourism.in/

Sadashivgad, Karwar ( India) - Scenic and Tranquil Village at Confluence Of Arabian Sea and Kali River

2020-06-25T22:10:00.073+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

Situated along India's western coast at Kawar, Uttar Kannada district lies the picturesque and scenic village of Sadashivgad. Just at the Kali river point in Sadashivgad and across the periphery of Nandangadda village, you will find a small beach stretch where you can laze and do your literary scribblings or any activity of leisure. Further from the beach and navigable by a canoe, lies enclosed island housing mangroves and palm trees, tall shrubs, and edible oysters. I used to wonder what lies in that enclosed island, as we always had the fear of landing there due to its central location. This island is a picture-perfect location for shutterbugs. Karwar town, at a distance of 5kms from Sadashivgad village, was called 'Baithkol' in Arabic, meaning 'Bay of Safety', due to its hidden location at sea.

[Picture Credit: Wikipedia]

The origin of Sadashivgad is peculiar since it was called 'Cintacora', an old port during the Portuguese times. The name further underwent a metamorphosis and was changed to 'Chitakula' and 'Sindbur'. But the real nomenclature of Karwar is derived from 'Kadwad', a village on the banks of Kali river. Kadwad was an important trading center during British times, and there existed a factory dealing in Muslim, a fine cotton cloth for which Kadwad was famed for. Pepper, Cinamon, Blue coarse cloth were other traded items, which were favored by Arab and African traders.

Sadashivgad was also not immune to the Maratha culture as Shivaji Maharaj visited it after marching from Bednore in the South. He paid his obeisance at the sacred temple in Gokarna and captured Ankola and ultimately crossed the Kali river to conquer Sadashivgad ('Gad').

[Gateway to Fort]

The village of Sadashivgad was built using the ruins and ramparts of the Samvargad fort built by the Sonda Kings. This satellite fort is at the highest pinnacle(200m high, m high ramparts, 2m wide walls) and was called the 'Pani Killa'. You can find a canon point and tower with an opening for guns. This fort was a guarding point for the main Sadashivgad fort which existed to its east & North East sides and had 3 canons. It was named Sadashivgad by Sonda king. Basavalinga after his father Sadashivalinga in 1715. Now only broken fortifications remain.

One can get a panoramic view of the Arabian sea and the Kali river from here. Tourists come to get a glimpse of the setting sun at the Kali river which is a spectacle. There's a beautiful single arched entry point when climbing from below Sadashivgad village towards the fort. After falling into the hands of Portuguese, the fort was pulled down and now you will find only single walls and broken ramparts. The Portuguese called it 'Fort de Piro' due to the presence of a Muslim Dargah of Sufi Pir(saint), Shah Karamuddin.

Embarking on the spiritual side of Sadashivgad, we get an interplay of cultures and religions. There are two important landmarks, Durga Bhavani Temple & the Dargah of Pir Shah Karamuddin.

Midway along the Sadashivgad hill, lies the centuries-old Durga Bhavani Temple, made famous by Shivaji Maharaj's visit. Legend states that he visited this temple twice.

The environs around the temple is very serene and you can get an enchanting view of the estuary below the Sadashivgad cliff.

The surreal vistas, majestic hills, canoe dotting estuary, and the setting sun makes the view from the temple simply breathtaking.

The annual Utsav/Jatra is held at the temple and attended by hordes of locals and tourists. It is celebrated with much pomp and fervor. People specially come to have a glimpse of the sanctum sanctorum where Durga Devi sits majestically atop a lion. The idol is very striking and is said to be placed by the ancient kings. Two cannons guard the entrance up the stairs of the temple which was brought here from the fort.

[Photo Credits: "DURGADEVI TEMPLE" by hrm1000 , Wikimapia is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0]

[Photo Credits:

"Sadashivgad Dargah" by hrm1000 , Wikimapia is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ]

Just diagonally opposite the temple lies the very famous and sacred blue-domed Dargah of Baghdadi Sufi Saint Peer Shah Shamshoddin Kharobat.

It is said that the saint arrived from Bijapur to Sadashivgad(Chittakula) and was attracted by the Sangam of Arabian sea and Kali river and settled here.

The saint was well renowned for Karamat/ miracles and hence was called 'Shah Karamamuddin'. This mosque is regarded as one of the top 10 best mosques in coastal region of India.

At a further distance of 2km northwards, lies the village of Shiveshwar, from which the Fortress Shiveshwar derived its name. Here you will find a Muslim dargah, tunnel, and a well enclosed inside the fortress.

Any traveler looking out for heavenly peace will find Karwar and its surrounding areas captivating, due to the mesmerizing beauty of the Kali River and the nearby areas. No doubt, why it is also called the 'Kashmir of Karnataka'. The coastal seaside town of Karwar beckons one and all and never fails to amaze. This is the reason why the greatest Bengali poet and literary stalwart, Rabindranath Tagore once quoted - 'If there is a heaven on earth, it is here, it is here'. Though small in area and devoid of attractions, Karwars is a haven for the eye which beholds it. Arab traders knew the significance of the place and called it 'Bhaitkol' meaning 'Safe harbor'.

How to get there ---->

International Travelers:

Goa Dabolim Airport(Vasco) to Karwar: 90-100km / 2hrs (may vary)

Distance from Karwar to Sadashivgad(Toll-Naka): Almost 6 km

Domestic Tourist:

Nearest Place: Karwar

Nearest Railway Stations:

Karwar
Asnoti
Shirwad

Hotels near Sadashivgad Fort:

Emerald Bay - Sterling, Sadashivgad (300m)
Hotel Bhadra, Karwar (600m)
Cintacor Island Resort, Kurumgad (6.3 km)
Jungle Lodges, Devbagh (6km)

Nearby Restaurants:

Hotel Amrut - Very famous for seafood (4km)
Shweta Lunch Home (4km)
Masala Kitchen (1.3km)

Lodges / Accommodations in Karwar:

Hotel Premiere
Hotel Kamat Plus
Hotel Sahana Palace

Rates are around 1000 for one full day (may vary according to seasons and at the discretion of management).

Lodges / Accommodations near Sadashivgad:

Om Lodge
Anmol Residency

The lodges are in Kodibag, which is around 8km from Sadashivgad.

Bets Time to visit: Oct-March

Nearby Attractions:

Tilmati Beach
Devbag Beach (famous for a groove of Casurina trees - called 'Gali Mari' in Kannada)
Karwar Beach Warship Museum - INS Chapal (decommissioned missile boat)
Rabindranath Tagore Beach - Gazebos present on the beach / Mayura Musical Fountain /Rock Garden
Binaga Caustic Soda Factory
Sea-Bird Naval Project (INS Kadamba) - of Indian Navy
Kaiga Atomic Power Center (Almost 60km from Karwar - But kindly check on Google Maps or online sources for exact distance as there may be short cuts. Different sources give different results.)
Majali Beach

More scenic places:

Chendia waterfall
Nagarmani falls
Gudahalli peak
Shirve Ghat
Anshi Ghat
Kurumgad island (tortoise shaped island, 4 km away from the coast) / Visit 5 story lighthouse (Oyster Rock built by the British)
Anjadiva island - Indian Naval base and also famous for Our Lady Of Brotas (Spring) church built by the Portuguese.

Conclusion:

Tourists visit Karwar for its pristine beaches, and is aptly called 'The Queen of the Konkan Coast'. The Sylvan lush green Western Ghats, raging Kali river and undulating Arabian sea are truly natures gifts for Karwar and their fusion is a visual spectacle. As Tagore stated - 'Karwar is certainly a fit place where we realize, the beauty of nature is not a figment of imagination'. Due to this, many colonial powers like Arabs, Dutch, Portuguese, French & British had their sails directed here. Although Karwar and its environs remain untapped, the beauty remains awe-inspiring.

The crescent-shaped Rabindranath Tagore beach is a go-to place for every tourist. For the adventurous, there are Dolphin sighting tours, Kayaking, Parasailing, Snorkelling, Banana boat rides, and Canoeing in close by locations to Karwar, top among them being Devbag Beach.

Now, Karwar has been adjudged the first-rate harbor, in between Bombay and Colombo. It is the district headquarters of an eponymous taluka and of Uttar Kannada district. The annual Karavalli Utsav is also held here for 2-3 days.

My Final Thoughts:

Although Sadashivgad is less remote and more of a village, I included it in my blog list due to its internal location jutting out at NH-17, which connects Goa and Karnataka. I myself have visited this place many times and have my fondest memories here at Kali river point and RT Beach.

Charming and Quaint Banavasi (Karnataka, India) - The forgotten, royal capital of the glorious Kadamba dynasty

2020-06-10T01:25:00.083+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

Steeped in antiquity and flourishing with architectural remnants lies Banvasi (Ancient name: Jayantipura, Vanvasi, kokanapura, Bansa), a temple town in Sirsi, Uttara Karnataka district. Banvasi is a sleepy pilgrim town situated in the Malenadu region in between Shimoga and Sirsi, encircled by the serene Varadha river. The name Banvasi means 'nestled in the jungles' and is situated in the rain forest of Western Ghats.

It is the oldest Indian city after Varanasi and is considered a religious hub due to the spiritual heritage all around. In its heydays, Banvasi's charm resonated all over the world. Religious minded students flocked here from as far as Goa & Maharastra for their Vedic studies. Even the Greek Philosopher Ptolemy mentioned a town called 'Bansa' in South India after being enamored by its natural beauty. The famous Kannada literary stalwart Pampa too found his calling here and composed of his greatest epics at this place. There is a garden/groove dedicated to him named 'Pampa Vatika/Vana where you can find exotic medicinal flora and fauna. The history & culture of Kadambas in Banvasi have no parallels in the whole of Karnataka due to the unique heritage located here. Although there are numerous heritage places in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andra Pradesh, Banvasi's charm lies in its remote stillness. The place was a perfect locale for religious studies due to its uninterrupted ambiance. Even today, Banvasi has maintained its legacy of being untouched by modernity. But with the passage of time and rush of tourists, few lodges and eateries have sprung up in its vicinity. Here you can find a lone SBI Branch for your financial dealings. The Kadamba dynasty got its moniker from the Kadamb tree (Neolamarckia Cadamba) which blossomed here.

The Kadamb dynasty was founded by Mayurasharma and held its sway in most parts of Karnataka, including NW-Mysore for over two centuries. Goa & Maharashtra too had tasted the culture of this famous dynasty. The Kadamba base in Goa was at Chandrapur (present-day Chandor, Margao, Goa) and extended till Goa Velha, Pilar, Old Goa up to Panjim. Till today you can find crumbling vestiges of the Kadamb architecture at Goa Velha(a port wall), Royal Road (Rajbid at Goa Velha till Panelim, Old Goa). The Kadamb rulers were excellent statesmen, cultural devotees, and architects, so you will find plenty of architectural remnants in all the places they ruled.

The hillock in Pilar, Goa was one of the locations where the ASI excavated the vestiges of the Kadamb dynasty. Banvasi was a flourishing trade center in olden days and traded in indigenous works like Terracota, Bead-making, mud artifacts, clay designs, woodwork, carpentry, basket weaving, pottery, tools, and other traditional occupations. The theatrical dance form 'Yakshagana' finds its base here and you will find mask making as one of the occupations of the villagers. Banvasi is famous for its king and queen pineapples, jaggery, jackfruit, paddy, plantains, spices, ginger, wheat, sugarcane, areca nut produce. The Gudigar community is adept in making Basingas (headgear used during a wedding), garlands, flower making, sandalwood carvings, baskets, and sculptural works. This temple town and its myriad lanes are famous for its two markets - Santipete for selling village produce and Kanchipete for displaying copper wares.

The Hoysalas & Chalukya heritage is drawn from the architectural splendor of Kadambas at Banvasi. The annual December traditional festival, Kadambotsav, draws many artists, cultural enthusiasts, craftsmen, folk dancers, dance troupes, writers, classical artists, and heritage lovers from all over South India. If you want to experience the slice of rustic rural ambiance, then you should give this hamlet a try. The biggest and the tallest temple Rath/chariot can be found here made totally of pure Red Sanders (Raktha Chandana).

(Picture Credit: No machine-readable author provided. Clt13 assumed (based on copyright claims).

/ CC BY-SA (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)

Before closing the trail, I would also love to mention the temple for which Banvasi is most acclaimed for and has catapulted it to international fame and reviews - The Madhukeshwara Temple. Not mentioning this piece of history would be an injustice to the Kadamba history. Famous and untouched by the ravages of time, the pillars of the temple have withstood the severe climate and still standing strong. This reminds us of the ingenuity of the artisans. You can also locate a Jain temple in the vicinity of this temple.

The name Madhukeshwara is derived from the golden-hued lingam inside the Sanctum Sanctorium. The hallowed precincts of the temple instantly take you back through time travel to the glorious era past by. The serene surroundings and cube-shaped residential quarters at this temple has a uniqueness that can be felt only by staying here. Meditating here for a month can be truly rejuvenating for a wannabe truth seeker. The temple roofs are etched with intricate carvings of animals, flowers, and other designs. Be sure to encounter two huge pachyderms standing majestically at the entrance. Inside you will find a 7-feet tall monolithic statue of Nandi Bull laying down in an imposing manner.

One of the interesting features of Madhukeshwara temple is the exquisitely designed stone cot and the Triloka Mantapa which depicts the three worlds succinctly. A huge bell made of pure Panchadhatu metal can also be found inside. Words can't describe the beauty of the temple and the skill of the artisans who constructed it.

How to get there ----->

Domestic Tourists:

The nearest railroad is at Shimoga,112 km away.

International Tourists:

The closest airport is at Mangalore, 250 km away. You can travel by bus or cab from there. The closest town is Sirsi, around 20 km.

Nearest Petrol Bunk: Sirsi, 20 km away.

KSRTC runs direct bus services from Bangalore, 374 km away. You can inquire at the KSRTC Counter in Bangalore if you happen to travel from there.

Best time to visit: Sept-Feb is the best time to visit. Dec is the time when the state govt. organizes the Kadambotsav, the cultural festival, depicting the Kadamba history and Feb during Mahashivratri.

Nearby Attractions:

Sahasralinga (1000 linga spectacle at one place)
Unchalli falls
Jog falls
Marikamba temple in Ramanbail area of Sirsi (Very famous temple dedicated to Goddess Marikamba, a manifestation of Durga, also known as 'Marigudi', frequented by hordes of domestic tourists to have a glimpse of a eight armed figure of Goddess & huge bull inside)
Dandeli Forest reserve

Lodges / Accommodations:

There are few budget homestays with reasonable accommodation nearby. The Banvasi Kendra has a few options.

Hotels and Restaurants:

Although there are not many dining options you can find small eateries selling snacks. And a few small hotels serving delicious rice dumplings, pineapple drinks, etc.

Banvasi Fort was called Jaldurg or 'water fort' due to water on three sides and a mud-brick wall on the other end. Currently, the fort lies in a rumbled state. Many reviews on Tripadvisor are testimony to the glorious history of Banvasi. Digging into its glorious past, one will find many residues like Gold coins, inscriptions at Talgudda(Shimoga), fort wall and moat, turbulent rivers and gurgling waterfalls, and Gudnapur palace located 5 km away. You should also visit Veerabhadra temple & lake in Gudnapur which is simply breathtaking. What remains now are just memories but the beauty of Banvasi will 'NEVER FADE AWAY'

For more details on this amazing place, CLICK HERE

Jebel Hafeet Mountain Range - A towering, remote Iconic Landmark in the heart of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE

2020-06-01T00:17:00.059+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

People close to Abu Dhabi, Dubai and its surrounding emirates must be familiar with the mesmeric Al Hajar mountain ranges but for people in the rest of the world, a trip to #JebelHafeet is a privilege.

The Jebel Hafeet is a mountain range in the #Tawam region located on the border of Oman & UAE. The climate is typical of the desert but due to the altitude, you can experience some breeze. Here you can also locate the elusive #ArabianTahr, an endangered, elusive, stocky mountain goat native to the #Hajr region.

(Picture Credit: "jebel hafeet house" by Krista, Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0)

Located 1300m high above MSL (mean sea level), a drive to the mountain top is along a winding, scenic panorama which will leave you bedazzled. Although the whole of UAE is dotted with mountains, caves, streams, a few beaches, and heritage locales, this one perched remotely in Al Ain will surely impress you to curate it in your blog or a journal. A trip to Jebel Hafeet is one of the most beautiful experiences for any Emirati and expatriate alike. This mountain range borders Oman and you can rejig your tour by buying an Omani visa and car insurance in advance if you plan to do so. The closest Omani town is Al Buraimi & Nizwa. But right now let's focus our attention on a UAE resident or a visit visa traveler on a sojourn to Jebel Hafeet.

The mountain has existed since historic times and more so important during the Hafit or Bronze age due to the discovery of the bronze era 'Beehive tombs' located at the mountain base on the eastern side. It is one of the locations to be incorporated in the list of Sheikh Zayed protected areas. The mountain has extensive cave networks and ridges spread in the vicinity, so be sure to explore it if you are an avid history buff. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations for ex-pats and locals alike and preferred by residents for a weekend get-together next only to the famous 'Baracudda Beach Resort' in Dubai.

Jebel Hafeet mountain is part of the National park, home to exotic flora & fauna located in #WadiTarabat. The whole mountain range covers an area of 17 km comprised primarily of sedimentary, craggy limestone rocks and sandstones. You can get a spectacular view of the illuminated Al Ain city from the mountain top. The journey to Jebel Hafeet is around 11 km from the base at Al-Ain city circle and is counted as one of the best mountain ranges in the world as cited by Edmunds(US Auto information resource site). You can try out some local delicacies and amazing beverages at the lone restaurant at the top named 'Top of Hafeet'. Tantalize your taste buds with some Khaboos(flatbread of Lebanese origin) along with lamb chops and wash it down with the local favorite, the distinct Suleimani tea.

How to Reach Jabe(a)l Hafeet:

* Dirhams: UAE local currency

* Buses are operated by Al Ghazal or Dubai RTA Agency

* Important Note: The bus & cab fares mentioned in the article are as per the Internet sources. The current rates may differ per se prevalent market rates in UAE. So you can check it accordingly from verified online sources.

International Travelers: (Guessing that the currency conversion is already done at Money exchanges Bureaus)

If you are in Dubai: 100 km
If you are in Abu Dhabi: 140 km

Dubai residents:

Take a metro to Deira city center, walk to the bus depot, and take a bus heading to Al-Jubail, Sharjah. From Al-Jubail board a bus heading to Al-Ain bus stand. Catch Bus No. 990 to Al-Ain Wadi. From Wadi its almost 1/2 hr drive. It's preferable to take a taxi from here which costs around 40-60 Dirhams.

Abu Dhabi Residents:

By bus: No direct buses are available to Jebel Hafeet but you can alight at Wadi adventure or Al Ain American School and take a taxi from there. The total journey time from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Wadi is 2 1/2 hr and costs in the range of 60-80 Dirhams.
By Taxi: It will costs around 300-400 Dirhams

Best time to visit:

The best month to plan a trip to the top is Aug - Sept when the weather is kind and milder.

Nearby Attractions:

#AlAinZoo: While taking a leisurely stroll in the zoo, meet and greet the famous Arabian antelopes, Oryx, Gazelles & Giraffes, which are peculiar to the region.
Green #Mubazarrah: Green oasis located at the base of Jebel Hafeet mountains. Lined by palm-fringed pathways and surrounded by lush greenery, water chalets, streams, and hot water geysers, this place is a must-visit to escape the scorching temperatures. The water channels or the Falaj system of agriculture is native to the Arabian region and practiced for hundreds of years to feed the palm groves. This place is renowned for its therapeutic thermal springs and is flocked by hundreds of tourists.
#AlAinmuseum: Dispensing local artifacts and traditional merchandise, this place is teeming with cultural addicts to collect #Bedouin jewelry and historic ceramic pots and Arabian lamps.

Hotels to satiate your taste buds:

What makes this place all the more interesting is the unparalleled dining & staying options. Expect the world's best cuisines and liquors flushing here at the top hotel brands.

Selected & curated hotel list for your reference:

Hotel #GrandMercure
Ayla Grand
City Seasons
#AlRotana
Raddison Blue
Grand Mubazarrah

Remember to get the best deals on Aggregator sites like Expedia, Booking, Hotels, Agoda, etc. Its probably in the range of 3000-15000 per night.

Don't go by the dry, withered landscape of this region. Beauty sometimes lies hidden in the least expected places. So pack your wares and fasten your gears and head straight to visit this place at least once in your lifetime. You may never forget the memories!

Bon Voyage!

Tiger Nest Adventure (Bhutan): The Trek that will test your Bravado

2020-05-14T20:15:00.046+05:30

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

(Photo Credit: "White Painted House on Top of the Mountain during Daytime" by Pixabay , Pexels)

Tiger Nest or Paro Taktshang is a famed Buddhist temple and monastery located in Paro in the kingdom of Bhutan. This place is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Perched precariously atop at height of 3000 meters from Paro valley and nestled on a cliff, the winding paths through cragged mountains will surely jolt you down.

If you love mountaineering and gravity-defying heights, then this trek is a must-visit. The beauty of this place is simply majestic and breathtaking.

How to get there: There are direct flights to Bhutan from major Indian cities - Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, Kolkata, Gaya, Bagdogra. Paro, the destination is 1 ½ hour drive from the state capital Thimpu. Once you reach Paro valley, TigersNest is a short distance from there. Alternatively, if you land at Paro airport, then you’ll be at a striking distance. Hire a pony and mules from below the valley to ascend up to the shrine. There are also some small stalls selling Souvenirs, trinkets & craft items. Bargain with the vendors and you are sure to get that killer deal.

Hotels in the vicinity: There are some colonial looking budget accommodations located in the range of 2-5kms from Tigers Nest. You can avail some good discounts from Hotel & Travel websites like TripAdvisor.com & Agooda.com. The rates vary in the range of 2000-6000 per day inclusive of breakfast & snacks. Get ready to be mesmerized with some stunning views from across your boarding.

Local Cuisine: Listed below is a curated list of items to have your fill:

Food:

Ema Datshi – A extremely favored dish made of Chilly and cheese, a must-have when you visit Bhutan
Jasha Maroo– A variety of spicy chicken
Paksha Paa – Pork gravy with Red Chilies
Red Rice – Crunchy, nutty, nutritious & flavorsome rice high in anthocyanins & flavonoids to provide you satiety.

Kindly note dining is expensive in Bhutan and can set you back by 785 NU per head.

Beverages:

Glory Amber Ale – Bhutanese Beer specialty
K5 (Whiskey)
Royal XXX-Rum.
Takin Red Wine
Raven Vodka.
Zum Zin Peach Wine
Ara.

Above listed drinks will debit you by 100-150 NU local currency (Ngultrum).

Handy Tip: Denominations of INR 500, 1000, 2000 are not accepted in Bhutan.

Tourists can exchange cash and traveler's cheques at the Foreign Exchange Desk at Paro Airport and Bank of Bhutan branches located in major townships such as Paro and Thimphu. Ngultrum is the widely accepted currency at major shopping points and will get you all the necessary services in a breeze, so try to shop using the local currency.

Best time to visit: Oct-Dec is the most favorable time to visit as the weather is pleasant.

Time to start the trek: It’s better to start the climb at 8am and get back to your destination before 5pm. The climb is arduous, and mind you, as a matter of precaution, High BP patients should better avoid it. If you feel faint or dizzy, fret not. There's a cafeteria just at a halfway mark to refresh you. In between the ascent, you will encounter numerous prayer flags of different hues. It's a Sight to Behold! You will be greeted with a prayer wheel to turn & make that silent wish. Lucky You! From here maneuver on a straight path ahead. You are now heading towards the Tigers Lair.

But hold on, it’s still a long way to the apex. You will encounter a steep ascent and a deadly descent along a gurgling waterfall coupled again with ascending a flight of steps before reaching the shrine. The ascent is more spine chilling than the descent due to the thinning air and increasing heat.

Catch your breath, as now we are at the final leg of the journey. Completing the final climb lands you at the Iconic prestige of Bhutan, the Land of Thunder Dragon.

I understood why Bhutan is named the 'Happiest Country' with the highest happiness index. The Place and its environs are so serene that you will feel of settling down.

Once in, be sure to respect the sentiments of the local populace by removing your footwear at the entrance and bow with reverence to the grand deity inside - Guru Rimpoche.

You can photoshoot and curate the memories but it’s better to ask for permission as you are in a sacred place.

If you are smitten by a remote traveling bug, then this place will perfectly suit your tastes.

Let me sign off by mentioning the famous Buddhist Chant of ‘Nam Myoho Renge Kyo’ which means ‘Glory to the Dharma of Lotus Sutra’.

Hidden in Obscurity - The Royal Palace of the Soundekar Rajas (Curca-Moula- Ponda, Goa, India)

2020-05-06T23:41:00.070+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

Lost in the annals of time and neglected by generations, lies an important part of the history of Goa - The hidden mansion of the Sundekar Rajas at Moula-Curca, Goa. Long before Goa unchained the shackles of colonial rule, there existed a feudal vessel of many a kingdom and served as their benefactors in expeditions. The Sundekar Rajas served almost all dynasties - The Adil Shahi, Marathas, Portuguese with utmost dedication and loyalty. It was during the reign of Hyder Ali that they were expelled from their ancestral royal kingdom in Sunda, Karnataka. They sought refuge from the Portuguese who were generous enough to welcome them and grant them privileges. The Soundekar Rajas were kingly class and wore turbans & royal robes bedecked with jewelry and filigree.

Lying in a 2-3 acre plot is Shivtirth Palace, the majestic edifice in Bandoda, Ponda which served as a residential place for the kingly class. It has a main courtyard, reminiscent of many Hindu homes, and has still maintained its bygone glory. The palace also encloses a sacred tank of the royal descendants where some religious events are still held with much fanfare.

[Entry to Hidden Palace]

The Soundekar kings built a massive underground structure, fit to be called a palace to hide from the prying eye of the enemies, and is still intact in its former glory. A secret passageway wide enough for one person to enter in the midst of a forested area will take everyone by surprise. Once in, get ready to be mesmerized by the sheer size of the structure. The majestic pillars and divine Arch's will outwit your senses as to how they managed its construction. The plaster is laid out using jaggery and lime and has withstood the test of time. The exact location is Moula, Curca, lying around 8-10 km from Panjim in Tiswadi Taluka. If you are a travel junkie out to visit this sunny state of Goa, then try rejigging your itinerary and include this heritage trail in your list. You will not regret it.

Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is located at Dabolim Vasco, Goa which is at a distance of around 20kms from Curca in Tiswadi taluka. . The exact location is in between Ponda and Panjim but in close proximity to Panjim.

Nearest railhead: Old Goa is the nearest rail station on the northern side and Karmali on the Ponda side.

Hotels/Accommodations in Panjim/ Ponda:

Most of the Soundekar heritage lies in Ponda, Canacona, Quepem, and Marmagoa talukas, so it was obvious to list Panjim / Ponda in my article. This is to assist travelers who would like to visit the Shivtirth Palace in Ponda and then tour the hidden palace.

Being a tourist place, there is no doubt about the availability of hotel rooms and lodges. There are a plethora of accommodation choices right in the center of Panjim and Ponda city with reasonable rates.

MakeMyTrip, OYO, and GTDC (Goa Tourism) provide accommodation suiting every budget travelers. For travelers inclined to lodge type setups, there are many locally-owned guesthouses in Panjim / Ponda which will come in handy. The rustic stays in heritage villas will transport you to the colonial era of yore.

Panjim / Ponda has plenty of vegs & non-veg restaurants to suit every pocket. Travelers experiencing a stop-start type of internet connectivity issues can get a first-hand experience of real Goan hospitality. Just ask any true blue Goan the directions to any place and be assured to never lose your way.

Goans by nature are very helpful and you can navigate your way without carrying any maps, guides, and the GPS just by asking any local for good options on hotels and tourist places.

Nearby Tourist Attractions:

St Ann Church, Talaulim - Imposing, majestic church in Talaulim village on top of a hill overlooking Panjim city. Built during the Portuguese era, this iconic church reminds you of Lisbon architectural remnants.
Old Goa - Once a capital city and a fabled kingdom, Old Goa was a prosperous city during colonial times, and many kingly powers descended here just to experience its glory. Don't forget to visit See Cathedral housing the remains of Goa famous saint, Francis Xavier. The area surrounding See Catherdral will astound you with its huge spaces, manicured gardens, and amazing architecture.
Mary Immaculate Church, Panjim - Another religious wonder, the high, zigzag path crisis crossing to reach the top at the church will leave you in awe.

The route along Curca, Moulim, Talaulim, Batim, Aggasiam, Panelim, Goa Velha, Pilar were once a stronghold of the Kadambas, another royal kingdom from Karnataka which ruled Goa. Tourists interested to inquire more into the Kadambas history can visit 'Rajbid - or the Royal road' of the Kadambas in Panelim, Old Goa, and the Queens enclosure which was the bathing place for the royal queens.

Kushavati river in Chandor, near Zuari, is another heritage place which was also a bathing place for the Kadamba queens.

Travel Tip: Don’t forget to carry a flash Torch and wear knee-length boots while visiting Soundekar Palace in Curca, as you will be traversing a forested land and there is a possibility of stamping on some reptiles (just a caution!). Also, carry an HD/SLR CAMERA(preferable) to curate the memories.

The Cave Garden Of Meghalaya (North East India) - A Remote Gem Hidden in Plain Sight

2020-05-02T16:25:00.057+05:30

Important Note:

Check the COVID 19 travel restrictions of the place online before undertaking your sojourn.
Kindly note that the Distance of places, Prices, Hotel rates, Temperature, and other figures may change according to the conditions prevailing at the time of your visit. There may even be short cuts and extra conveyance available that you can avail of when traveling locally. Tourists must conduct their own research before traveling and take due diligence on rates & distances from authorized online sources. All the facts and information provided in relation to the place is for my own personal use and collected from different online sources and collated together. For more details, Click this link DISCLAIMER.

Want to avoid the frantic crowds? Then head straight to the quaint village of Laitmawsiang, Meghalaya aptly titled the "Garden of Caves". Situated in dense forests, surrounded by bushes, shrubs & entwining vines lies the untouched, unexplored gem of Meghalaya. In fact, this place is listed as one of the best tourist places to visit in Meghalaya.

The caves are inaccessible to the outside world except for the first rays of the sun, which shimmer on it transforming the waters into sparkles of a diamond. This cave has an intricate network that is suitable for hiding. It is for this very reason, the Khasi tribes used it to avoid the British troops.

Picture Credit: Abhiyansh kumar dikshit / CC BY-SA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)

It is on the way to Cherrapunji, a place notorious for its extremely heavy rainfall. Cherrapunji was called "THE WETTEST PLACE" for recording the highest amount of rainfall in India. Off late, it has lost the title to Mawsynram, a place also in Meghalaya.

The Cave Gardens has come to the limelight due to the heritage trails organized by the Govt.of Meghalaya and with the information onslaught on Social Media.

The best time to visit is in August when the rains are in full fury. It is situated in the Laitmawsiang village of Sohra, approx. 10 km from Laitryngew. You can also access it through Shillong or Cherrapunji.

Be sure to carry your travel gear(a.k.a knee-high boots) and take extra care due to the slippery outfields.

Extra Place Highlighters(For your HELP):

Cuisine: Meghalaya is known for its Red Rice & Meat lovin' inhabitants. Almost everyone in Meghalaya consumes the staple item, Rice & spiced meat. The trademark tribal dish or Khasi dish is boiled rice or Jadot. The Khasis give more emphasis on meat, be it Beef, Mutton, Chicken but Pork is the clear favorite. If you are a Pork eater, then you are in for a treat.

Smoked, Fried & Roasted varieties are on the platter. The Garo tribe, another tribal class too prefers meat laden with spices. Fish is abundant too. Pickled Bamboo dishes are also a hit among the masses. So try this unique dish to titillate your taste buds.

Kyat (Fermented Rice beer) is a must-try when in Meghalaya. Other popular beverages are Cha Khoo & Sha Shiakrot.

Nearest Rail Station: The nearest railway station is in Guwahati which is 145km away from Laitmawsiang. From Guwahati, you can hop on a taxi to Shillong and visit Garden of Caves midway.

Distance by Road: The nearest point is Shillong and you can hire a full day taxi ride to visit Laitmawsiang

Nearest Airport: You guess it right, The closest airport is Shillong, located around 50 km apart.

Regional Attire: If you are a cultural follower and like to source regional outfits then you need to pick the Meghalayan attire. Simple and elegant, the body-hugging cloth turns you into a medieval warrior. Hey, but don't use your Ninja skills on people :).

Garo men wear a loincloth as their traditional dress. The men of the Khasi Tribe wears a long cloth around their waist which is untailored. It's identical to a Dhoti which can be complemented with a jacket, turban, or other headgear.

Khasi Women wear long dress tailored with Assam Muga silk. The senior women wear Jainkup made using a woolen cloth. They also wear costume adorning accessories that complement the look.

As a general rule for tourists, wearing woolen cloth in winters and cotton outfit in spring is a must due to the extreme weather climes. Do not forget to carry thick cloth sets for protection during the rainy season.

Budget Accommodations/Hotels: If you miss your flight or are planning for a long haul, then booking a cozy resting place is a pre-requisite. If you are familiar with hotel bookings, then try booking using TRIPADVISOR.COM or AGODA booking engine. It has some excellent and cheap deals, with minimum hassle and documentation.

List of Budget hotels:

· OYO Blooming Inn guest House

· Holiday Inn

· Shillong Mantra Guest House

· Hotel Gateway Shillong

· Hotel Holy Gate

· Hotel Polo Towers

Nearby attractions:

1. Nohkalikai Falls

2. Upper Shillong Forest

3. Jingmahan Living Root Bridge entirely nature-made form tree roots

I hope you all tick this Paradise on Earth as the next destination in your Bucket list.

Happy Journey & see you till I come out with another hidden gem.

Let's begin the Odyssey of the Spice Trail

2020-04-24T23:53:00.035+05:30

*Seeker (traveler) - ['Walk on, stop not, till you establish yourself']

The numerous #caravans and their destinies are a subject of many folklore. Assembling together on a common mission to discover #unexploredlands, #eclecticcuisines, magical customs and rituals, the caravan and their cliche is an enigma.

Spice Caravan (Picture Courtesy: "Photo Of A Man In White Long-sleeved Top on Blue And White Pop-up Camper" by neil kelly , Pexels)

What makes them all the more interesting is their guts & gumption story. As the old adage goes by "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step", the caravans get into uncharted territory with a first bold move. Boldness has genius - what a remark!

The haphazard trails towards the destination evoke a sense of fulfillment with each passing moment. The seeker is not at peace until he reaches the path he has mapped. Come what may, but the goal has to be reached. The undulating hills, the deep oceans, the treacherous terrains fail to breakdown the indomitable spirit of a seeker in his quest for new territories.

Different cultures bring out the curiosity in him, customs bedazzle his sight and heritage leaves him dumbfounded. Such is the intensity of the seeker who is hell-bent on exploring and discovering.

Come let's begin this journey with our first Pit stop, the Cave Gardens of Meghalaya.

The Great Cultural Curry - Offbeat Travel Gems

Tranquebar - Revisiting the Scandivanian Legacy of Denmark at India's Southernmost Tip

"The bygone times leave in its trail eternal memories of heritage structures and customs".

Ilha De Calma (Calm): The Stunning. Tranquil and Delightful Island of DIU( Daman ) in Gujarat

Maui : Picture-Perfect Postcard Adventure Island in the Evergreen US State of Hawaii

Macha Pichu - The Lost Ancient Wonder City of Inca Civilization in [Cusco, Peru]

Angkot Wat Temple Complex - The Heart and Soul of Cambodia in South East Asia

Sacred Gokarna - Picture-Perfect Tourist Town in Karnataka, India

Sadashivgad, Karwar ( India) - Scenic and Tranquil Village at Confluence Of Arabian Sea and Kali River

Charming and Quaint Banavasi (Karnataka, India) - The forgotten, royal capital of the glorious Kadamba dynasty

Jebel Hafeet Mountain Range - A towering, remote Iconic Landmark in the heart of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Tiger Nest Adventure (Bhutan): The Trek that will test your Bravado

(Photo Credit: "White Painted House on Top of the Mountain during Daytime" by Pixabay, Pexels)

Hidden in Obscurity - The Royal Palace of the Soundekar Rajas (Curca-Moula- Ponda, Goa, India)

The Cave Garden Of Meghalaya (North East India) - A Remote Gem Hidden in Plain Sight

Let's begin the Odyssey of the Spice Trail

(Photo Credit: "White Painted House on Top of the Mountain during Daytime" by Pixabay , Pexels)