Day 1: The Golden Triangle Tour with Khajuraho

The incredible India is truly an extravaganza of amazing attractions which make it a favored destination of both national and international tourists. No wonder India is a treasure-trove of fascinating attractions. There is so much to experience and explore in this destination. A few days back two of my friends Saito and Misikawa from Japan came to India for some business purpose. They came to India for the first time and were really excited. They had less time in hand but they wanted to explore some attractions of the country. So I suggested them to take the Golden Triangle Tour which is the most popular tours of the country, especially when it comes to foreigners. I along with my Japanese friends planned the Golden Triangle Tour. This tour encompasses three enchanting destinations of India: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.

Qutub Minar: Delhi Tour

As my friends were already in Delhi for their business deal so we, after their official work got over, started exploring Delhi. It is the capital city of India which is a perfect example of the fine combination of traditional and modern. In the past it serves as a seat of power for several dynasties. The city is divided into two sections, Old Delhi and New Delhi, each part having its own distinct charm.

Our guide Dinesh took us to the arresting attractions. First we visited Qutub Minar, a magnificent structure built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek in 1206. It is famed as the tallest brick minaret in the world. It reflects a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture. It is also a World Heritage Site. Then we visited Humayun's Tomb, India Gate, Jantar Mantar, Jama Masjid, Red Fort and Laxmi Narayan temple. My friends were delighted to see these historic monuments of Delhi. We did some shopping in Chandani Chowk market in old Delhi and feasted on a variety of stuffed paranthas( the specialty of Chandani Chowk) and Jalebi.

After an overnight stay at Marriot in Delhi, we headed towards Jaipur the next morning. To taste the royalty of the bygone era we stayed at a heritage hotel in Jaipur. Post breakfast we went to see the City Palace which was stunning. There we saw various belongings of the raja-maharajas. Saito said a visit to the palace was like a visit to the bygone era of raja-maharaja. Next we visited the Amber Fort, a majestic fort with several royal apartments. We covered the steep path to the fort on an elephant's back which was very royal and pleasurable. Then we visited the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical house with several stone devices which were once used to measure time and several astronomical events. Our last halt was Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds, a wonderful structure which was especially built for the royal ladies to see the processions taking place in the streets without themselves being seen. There are more than 900 small windows in this palace which is quite amazing.

This marked the end of our first half journey. Now we were slated to cover two more fascinating destinations: Agra and Khajuraho.

A Revitalizing Trip to Dharamshala

His Holiness The Dalai Lama was actually a lucky charm for Chennai Super Kings! Yes, this time my excursion & my last holiday trip were associated with the high on IPL cricket tournament. I planned for a two day trip to Dharamshala (lying on the spur of the Dhauladhar range in Himachal Pradesh), and luckily my friend arranged for 2 passes for Kings XI Punjab VS Chennai Super Kings match there. All this raised my excitement level several times.

A Revitalizing Trip to Dharamshala

I boarded my train from Delhi and arrived Pathankot, which is the nearest broad gauge railway terminal to Dharamshala. While covering the rest of distance by a cab, I stopped for a quick bite at a roadside dhaba to enjoy morning breakfast. I was willing to relax for a while in my hotel, but the hidden wanderer and explorer somewhere inside me pushed towards the divine greens of Kangra town. The place is wooded with oak and conifer trees and snow capped mountains enfold three sides of the town. My exploration started with Mcleodganj, located 9 km from Dharamshala. This is the place that serves as a headquarter of His Holiness The Dalai Lama. There I came to know that His Holiness The Dalai Lama himself would be going to Dharamshala in the evening to watch the match in the beautiful Cricket stadium overlooking mighty Dhauladhar. I spotted a few Tibetan shops there that sell authentic handicrafts.

In the day-time I explored places like Bhagsunag falls (11 km from Dharamshala), Dal lake (12 km from Dharamshala), St. John's Church (8 km) and War Memorial (3 km). And in the evening, I relished my senses with an awesome cricket match in this picturesque hill station. The auspicious presence of His Holiness The Dalai Lama blessed Chennai Super Kings and made the team enter the Semi-Finals by defeating Kings XI Punjab.

Next day, I planned short visits to places like Dharamkot (11 km) and Jawalamukhi Temple (54 km). While getting back to my hotel for check out, I spend an hour at Kotwali Bazar, a general shopping area in Dharamshala. In short, the divine scenic beauty, calmness and serenity at Dharamshala simply rejuvenated my senses. Spending days amidst high pine trees, tea gardens, and timber yielding trees was remarkable. Moreover, it exhibited the unique Tibetan art, cultures and traditions.

Kovalam Beach: Nature’s Best Description

Kovalam Beach: Nature’s Best Description

For me beaches are the most well composed landscapes of nature. The juxtaposed beauty of glittering sun, silvery sand and azure sea makes beaches a romantic destination where one can freely stimulate their sense of imagination. Particularly for me beaches are the source of fascination from my childhood. When I was child I used to think from where this waves come and why did it return back. I also used to ask about the places other side of this huge water land. These stupid questions sometime irritated my parents and when ever they tried to explain me I asked lots of question to satisfy my complete eager about sea.

For me seaside or beaches are the fabulous destinations to spend quality time in nature’s lap. It is the perfect destination which not only fascinates you but also inspires you, because the cure for anything is salt water - sweat, tears, or the sea’ as quoted by Isak Dinesen.

I often visit Kerala Capital City Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) for my official purpose which provides me an opportunity to visit Kovalam Beach which is one of the best beaches of the world. Every time I went there I find something new which refreshes my mind and provides solace to weary soul. But most of the time I enjoy my Kovalam Beach Visit because of its serene and scenic beauty.

Kovalam is among the most pristine in India which is located about 17 km from Thiruvananthapuram city on the Malabar coast of India. This is a beach town situated on the coast of Arabian Sea which attracts scores of nature lovers from various parts of the globe.

On Saturday early morning I went to Kovalam Beach in a taxi from my office guest house. This was my fourth visit to this mesmerizing destination where one can see the best of amalgamated beauty of sun, sand and sea. This beach is renowned for its three crescent shaped beaches which are separated by the rocky terrain. The largest beach is known as Light House Beach because of its 35 meter high lighthouse. Hawah Beach is the second largest beach which was also the first topless beach in India but topless bathing has been banned nowadays. And the third is Samudra Beach which is famous among the local fishermen.

This time I selected Light House Beach to spend my whole day in nature’s lap. It is perfect spot from where you can get complete view of this place. The long and clean sandy strip makes it a favorite hangout among tourists. The light house of this place is named as Vizhinjam Lighthouse which is situated on the promontory at the southern end of the beach. After enjoying sea waves I sat under the palm tree facing the sea. The cool breeze, whimsical sound of waves and panorama of nature engrossed me completely which rippled several my sense of imagination in me. I was lost in my thoughts which were invoked by the mystic and bewitching surroundings of this place.

It’s my hunger that broke my thought in which I was involved for long time. I went to nearby restaurant to eat mouthwatering Kerala Sea food. The taste of fresh prawn and flavor of original spices still lingering on my taste buds.

After strolling some more time on this pristine beach I went to nearby souvenir shop to purchase conch for my mother. After that I returned to my guest house and from there headed to airport.

Jaipur: A Land of Man Made Marvel

Much heard about Rajasthan the land of contrast and diversity, which is known for its several mesmerizing attractions. This state has several places of tourists delight but the fascination of Pink City Jaipur is entirely different from any other tourist destinations. Since long I wanted to visit Jaipur the colorful city of Rajasthan but never got any chance.

Jaipur: A Land of Man Made Marvel

But opportunities comes in many ways and none of us know when and where, same thing happened with me last month when one of my close and childhood friend invited me to Jaipur for his marriage engagement. This invitation was unexpected and instigated discussion in our friend circle because it is a love marriage and we don’t know his fiancée. In our friend circle we inquired and investigate lot about this affair because of human nature of being interested in other affair. Finally after settling our urge and inquiry about this love affair four of our good friends choked out Jaipur Tour program on the occasion of this marriage engagement.

All of my friends residing at different places so we planned to reach Jaipur two days in advance so that we can have ample of time to enjoy this mystic place. Finally with Kingfisher flight I reached Jaipur from Banglore on Friday night. It was night when I my flight landed in this historical city. After checking out from airport I saw all three my friends waiting outside. We all met each other after one year, this joy of meeting was really touched us and our emotions burst out.

Soon this emotional drama ended and we became same old guys pulling each other’s legs, shouting, making noise and disclosing some of the hidden facts from our past life. After reaching hotel we took delectable Rajasthani food in our dinner. The food was really tasty which filled appetite but not able to satisfy our taste buds. Moreover the company of best friends reminded our college days when we used to eat in canteen.

Although we have two rooms booked but all of us stayed in a single room sharing our past, present and future thoughts. This long session of discussion enjoyed by us as it gave chance to know something new and hidden facts from their college day’s life.

Water Sports in Goa: Holding Your Interest Superbly

Delhi’s scorching heat is something that you cannot resist, actually. Air-conditioners, ice-creams and even chilled beer bottles seem to be ineffective. And for all the wanderer spirits, this calls for a freaky holiday trip. Being a water sports lover, I decided to fly to Goa Beaches. This is one such destination that is unbeatable in terms of water sports in India.

Water Sports in Goa

While peeping out of the window of my plane, I watched & admired vast picturesque coastline and serene beaches of Goa. The entire coastline was dotted with countless tourists busy in sunbathing and enjoying water sports there. I was booked in a beach resort there. After spending my evening at leisure, I enjoyed authentic sea-food delicacies (comprising of fish, prawns, lobsters & Feni) at my resort. My exploration started the very next morning from the famed Agonda Beach. I could see numerous restaurants / bars and handicraft shops there alongside the coastline. After having my brunch there, I went up to a water sports operator who assisted me with a trainer. He briefed me regarding thrilling water activities. 

I started with angling, which is one of the safest and easiest of water sport activity. I was provided with a fishing rod & food for bait. The sea was full of tempting seafood and my frequent catches were comprised of soormai, salmon and mullet. Next I was transported to Candolim Beach by Dinghy Sailing that is locally known as 'Beer and Sandwich Sailing'. My dinghy was about 15 feet long and sailing calmly in the direction of the gentle wind across the sea was remarkable. 

I also paid short trips to beaches like Anjuna, Baga, Dona Paula and Majorda where I enjoyed a number of sports like dinghy sailing, parasailing, scuba diving, water scootering, water skiing and wind surfing. Those adventure-cum-recreational activities also allowed me to admire the panoramic view of the entire region and marine life. It was, more or less, like enjoying summer vacations in a watery paradise for me. Goa simply captivates your soul and offers you the best holidays of your lifetime.

Refreshing Darjeeling Tour

Refreshing Darjeeling Tour

Far from the madness of Delhi city I with three of my friends landed in Darjeeling. I had heard a lot about this destination and was very impressed. Now I was here to see it for myself. After reaching Siliguri we hired a taxi to Darjeeling which is around 75 km from this place. I really enjoyed the ride through the winding roads. No traffic jam, no pollution, it was a wonderful ride.

The moment we entered Darjeeling I was completely mesmerized by its charm and beauty. The sight of the verdant green hills was very soothing to the senses. The climate was pleasant and the environment was refreshing.

Darjeeling is a wonderful hill station of West Bengal state of India where nature lovers come from far and wide. Still retaining its old world charm, it is popularly known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations'. The most fascinating attraction of this destination is the refreshing and aromatic tea gardens. The forests here have their own unique charm.

Our first halt was the Tiger Hill which has an altitude of 2590 m. This is a famous spot as it offers breathtaking view of sunrise. I was enchanted to the hilt when I saw the sun rising like a fire ball over the great Eastern Himalayan Mountains from this hill. It was a Kodak moment. One can even get glimpses of Mt. Everest, the world's highest peak from here. Next we headed towards the Happy Valley Tea Estate. Roaming around in the gardens, breathing aromatic air and enjoying the mesmerizing views of the surroundings was a great experience. We also saw how tea leaves are processed. It was quite interesting.

Post lunch we headed towards the Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway which is the first of its kind in India. We enjoyed the cable car ride. After that we visited the monastery, garden and temple, which reflected the richness of this hill station. In the evening we went to the local market of Darjeeling and bought some handicrafts. We also picked up some tea packets as Darjeeling is famous the world over for its high quality and aromatic tea.

The Best Way to Reach Shimla

Shimla Tour

There are many things in our life which are destined and no one knows when and how it will get fulfilled. Same thing happened with me when I went to my friend’s engagement in Shimla. When his persuasion failed to convince me, he bribed me with a travel opportunity in Toy train from Kalka to Shimla. Since my childhood it was my dream to experience this riveting journey. Though I got several opportunities but somehow I missed all, why and how I don’t known. It was not destined that may be one of the reasons.

For me it’s not a bribe but he targeted on my Achilles’ heel and soon I headed for Delhi from Pune via flight. From here I boarded Howrah Delhi Kalka Mail and reached Kalka at around 5:00 in the morning. Kalka located on the foothills of Himalayas is an entry point to Himachal Pradesh. From here my long cherished journey started in a cozy seat of the Shivalik Deluxe Express. With smile on my face and joy in my heart I stepped inside the train.

It is a luxury train running between Kalka and Shimla. This train has only one stoppage at Barog that is why it is also called as ‘narrow gauge Shatabdi’. The train can accommodate 120 passengers at a time. There is a special tourist coach called 'Shivalik Palace’ attached to this train which is meant for elite tourists. Apart from this the Shivalik Express has individual posh cabins which are private compartments for couples or lovers. Some of the other distinctive features that impressed me most on board were the wall to wall carpet decorations, wide glass windows, reversible cushioned chairs, music system and microphone with an alarm bell for emergency communication. 

The slow and steady moving of the train over serpentine tracks, passing by charming hills, tunnels and bridges mesmerized me completely. The journey through green valleys, high mountains and steep slopes had left the impression of ecstasy and joy which will remain in my memory forever. Covering 96 km, the train passes through 919 curves, 20 railway stations, 103 tunnels and 969 bridges. 

The most fascinated duration of this expedition was when the train passed the longest tunnel at Barog. This tunnel is 1143.61-metre-long and the train passes through fissured sandstone. The train echo and darkness outside perplexed me and I got sacred for sometime. As soon as the train comes out of the tunnel, the spread over beauty of lush green natural ambiance is like a welcome sign of this bewitching land.

After 4:45 hours of this appealing journey the train reaches the beautiful hill station Shimla, where I saw my friends waiting for me. The moment I got down from the train two of my old friends hugged me and we all headed towards our friend’s house. 

It was really a memorable journey for me because not only it fulfilled my most cherished desire but also given me a chance to meet some of my old friends. After enjoying the company of natural vistas I spent quality time with my friends for two days which provided me a chance to enjoy everything at its best.