Listen to Your Soul amidst a Divine Ambiance on Ladakh Monastery Tour

Dotted with countless historic monasteries, Ladakh is a destination that fascinates me a lot. It is my dream destination. The beautiful hills, scenic locations, high mountains and above all ancient 'Gompas' or monasteries have always allured me.

Thiksey Gompa

Working with an organization where employee satisfaction is an important goal, I got an opportunity to visit Ladakh with my co-workers. We, a team of five members were given the privilege to collect the information about Ladakh Monasteries. Feeling ourselves delighted, we jumped at it and started our Ladakh Monastery Tour.

I am very fond of visiting religious places as the tranquility of these holy spots energizes my inner self. Ladakh tour was already like making my dream come true and monastery tour was just like a feather in the cap. With high hopes, we left from Delhi and reached Ladakh by flight. For that very day, we were left free to enjoy the mesmerizing charm of the place.

Next day, we all were very excited to experience the tranquil ambiance of Gompas. Situated on a hillock, Shey Gompa was the first monastery, we visited. Lying at a distance of around 15 km to the south of Leh town, the monastery houses a beautiful image of Buddha Shalyamuni. While we were looking at the image, I found some of my team members were so stunned that they were not even blinking their eyes. Perhaps, it was the magic of this hug image of the seated Buddha and the way it has been constructed beautifully with the metal. Glided with gold, the Buddha statue simply looks outstanding. We bow our head in front of Buddha statue where a large bowl of wax with a central flame was kept.

After paying our regards, we left for Thiskey Gompa. Situated around 18 km from Leh town, Thiksey Gompa is a beautiful monastery. We were surprised to see a temple-Lakhang Nyerma, which was inside the monastery. Dedicated to Goddess Dorje Chenmo, the temple was standing mostly in ruins but it was worth spending time. There were many other holy shrines that attracted us and left us mesmerized. We were amazed to know that it also houses a rich collection of artifacts and ancient relics. On visiting the monastery, we got to know that sacred dance organized annually in the monastery, an important part of Gustor ritual.

Hemis Monastery was the next attraction of our exploration. Based on my experience, I would not hesitate to say that it is the biggest monastery of Ladakh. Standing gracefully on the Western bank of Indus river, the monastery also has a rich collection of old relics. The famous Hemis festival is also celebrated here, which is an annual affair.

Likir Gompa

Later we visited Stok Palace, which is the royal residence of the king of Stok. It also houses a museum, showcasing the royal artifacts, prayer instruments and precious stones. Some of my colleagues found it the best way to come across Buddhist life style and culture. We came back to the booked hotel and took rest overnight amidst all the comforts.

Next morning, after breakfast, we left for Likir Gompa. Lying atop a windy cliff, the beautiful village of Likir just took away our heart. Still, I am not ready to believe that a village can be so fascinating. Famed for its outdoor, tall and seated Buddha, the Likir monastery was the next part of our visit. After that, we were all set to cross the river Indus and we did it joyfully. Zanskar also unites into Indus at a point.

We moved towards the Spituk Gompa, which is located on the hill-top near the river. The monastery is famous for its annual event-The Spituk Festival. The curiosity to the most heard Lamayuru monastery simply could not stop us. This monastery is the oldest gompa of the region. I found it so outstanding that I could not help insisting my team mates to spend some more time there and they agreed. Sankar Gompa, Phugtal Gompa and Alchi Gompa were the other monasteries, we visited during our Ladakh Monastery tour.

With a heavy heart, we bid goodbye to Ladakh but with a promise to come again!

Solving Mystery of History with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels - Part II

During this tour we also covered Sawai Madhopur and Jodhpur, the two other important destinations of India. Each of the destinations offered a different experience. We explored Mehrangarh Fort, Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana. We also visited Umaid Bhawan. We have read enough about these places and even we had been there earlier also but visiting these places by Royal Rajasthan on Wheels was a fairy-tale experience. We were feeling like princesses who were travelling from our one palace to another and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels was our royal caravan.

Moti Mahal

After Rajasthan, the train moved towards Madhya Pradesh, the heart of India. Located in almost middle of the country, Madhya Pradesh was new for us. We had never been to this beautiful state. After spending another night in that moving palace, we were in Khajuraho temples. Fine architecture of these temples made us wonder that without any technology and tools how did they carve such amazing sculptures? Although we were exploring the amazing temples of Kahjuraho yet I was missing the luxury on board. I was not able to understand what was the magic that was dragging me towards train. I guess it was luxury and the decoration. Exclusive Bar, Spa Facilities, Personalized Services, Splendid Saloons, Royal Decoration and Personalized Attendant, all these facilities were not allowing me to concentrate on the world outside the train.

As we boarded the train, I got that princely feel again. I could not realize that I was even behaving in a royal manner. Suddenly Heena made me realize that we were on the train just for a week. I was a bit low after realizing the fact that five days of the tour were over. I did not notice when I fell asleep in the cozy beds of the train. I woke up in the morning. Heena told me that she could not sleep due to the luxurious environment as she was living there as a dream.

Agra Fort

The moment we got down in Varanasi, we felt that no combination can be better than travelling in luxury to the Varanasi. Calm ambience and enchantment of mantras took my heart away. I did not know why but Varanasi was always on my list of must visit places. After stepping in the holy region I could realize that there lies a heaven on the earth. We visited different Ghats and temples there and all of them were amazing. A whole day in spiritual aura was not allowing us to leave the place but finally luxury of the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels won and we were back on the train.

Next destination was Agra, the land that houses the symbol of love. A full day in the city made me realize that the love of these emperors was also royal like them. Gloriously standing Taj Mahal is the evidence of the fact. We explored Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort as well. Finally, we left for Delhi. The tour was about to over and we were not in a mood to step out of this world class luxury.

On Sunday, we de-boarded the train early morning. It was really hard for us to come out of that luxury experience but we had to. There was no choice. Soon, we would be planning another luxury train tour.

Solving Mystery of History with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels - Part1

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

I often travel in train even I would say travelling in train is a part of my life. Whenever I get a chance, I explore a new place. I always had a dream to experience the royalty in the journey as well. I asked my best buddy Heena to join me on this excursion. As it was going to be a planned trip, so we gathered all the information and finalized Royal Rajasthan on Wheels. The train remains in operation between November and March and offers a week long journey that starts from Sunday.

We booked the tour after understanding different aspects of the tour including itinerary, destinations, meals and everything else. Be it food, services or sightseeing, everything was covered in the tour package. The only thing we were told to be careful about reaching Safdarjung station, Delhi on time.

The day approached. I and Heena were extremely excited. We reached Safdarjung around 4:30 pm, an hour before departure time of the train, which is 5:30 pm. As it was Sunday, there was no traffic on the roads of Delhi. We were ready to experience the luxury travel.

The moment we boarded the train, our eyes were pleased with the surprise. The decoration made us felt as if we had entered a palace. I was so lost in the decoration of the train that Heena alone settled the baggage in our booked coach. It was a Deluxe Saloon. The train also has Super Deluxe Saloons. I came back to my senses when I found that a traditionally dressed person came in front of me. He asked me to take a seat so as to avoid the hindrance for other passengers.

The journey began, I was still lost in the imperial décor of the train that was dipped in royalty of bygone era. That night I could not sleep as it was hard to believe that I am on a luxury train not in any palace.

Next morning, we were in Jaipur, the 'City of Palaces'. It was not first time that we were in Jaipur. We had been to this royal city earlier also but with a luxury tour on Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, it was completely different. We explored Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort and Amber Fort. After a day's excursion, we were back in the train. Heena and me both are very fond of traditional items. Be it clothing, decoration or anything else, we never miss a chance to hit the market and to shop a lot. How it was possible that we were in Jaipur and did not shop? We were back with some heavy baggages as we did not realize that we bought numerous traditional items from Jaipur.

While I was packing all that stuff, Heena was occupied in arranging the pictures that we clicked during Jaipur visit. After that, we took rest for a while. As we did not have snacks in the evening we were feeling hungry so we headed towards the lavishly decorated restaurant of the train. Sheesh Mahal and Swarn Mahal are the two restaurants on board. We chose Sheesh Mahal. It is an amazing place, which is decorated with splendid floor lamps along with crystal pelmets. Fine work of wood and crystal left us speechless. That day I did not know what we had in dinner as we both were soaked in that royal ambience. Excellent service and fairy-tale aura was treating us as the princess.

Excellent Service

Our next day was dedicated to Udaipur and Chittorgarh. We visited Lake Pichola, City Palace and Saheliyon ki Bari in Udaipur. While in Chittorgarh, we marked our presence at Rana Kumbha Palace, Chittorgarh Fort and Padmini's Palace. Palaces were amazing. There we came to know that why people visit these wonderful destinations. All these are jewels of time that are carrying the golden charm of vintage era.

We had dinner on the train as we wanted to live every moment on the train. It was such an amazing feeling that could not be expressed in words. It is mandatory to board the train for this royal feel. Night was telling us to snuggle in the cozy beds of the coach but our heart was still stuck in the luxurious aura of the train and the attractions, we visited.

                                                                                             To be continued...

Relive your Life with Rishikesh Travel Guide

Recently, I got an opportunity to visit Rishikesh with my group of astrology-learners. Located in Uttarakhand, a home of natural beauty, Rishikesh just leaves me captivated, whenever I read, talk or even write about it. Anaida is like buddy to me and I love to spend time with her even after my astrology session. We both were feeling in high spirit on being reached to Rishikesh.

Laxman Jhoola

From Delhi, we took a flight and landed in Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport. Rishikesh is just 15 km away from Dehradun. Captivated by the sheer natural beauty of the place, we decided to stay in an Ashram-Himalayan Retreat, where the blissful atmosphere made us to relax in the best possible manner.

Nestled amongst the spectacular backdrop, with a beautiful view of mountains, rivers and green forests, the Ashram has all the things to made us calm and relaxed. Well, we were there for two days and wanted to make the most of it.

Due to my great interest, I decided to take a few yoga lessons. Another reason behind joining the yoga sessions was my concern for well-being of human, of-course including me. Like me, many other people were drawn to Yoga because it does not only stretches and tones, but also gives you a truly relaxing experience altogether. Staying in an Ashram, practicing Yoga and eating only vegetarian food just make you feel contented.

The only thing which I found difficult was to wake up early in the morning, yet my eagerness to learn this ancient practice overcame my laziness.

Well, next day after taking rest, we headed towards Laxman Jhoola, the most popular attraction of the place. According to the legends, Hindu Lord Ram spent his time of exile in the forest area of Risikesh along with his consort Sita and brother Lakshman. The suspension bridge bears testimony to their stay here.

The original bridge was built of jute and was renovated in 1939. However, later on it was converted into an iron bridge. Based on our experience, I must say that this is a classic tourist attraction, offering beautiful view of the area. Standing upon the bridge, we got our group photo clicked in different poses. Interestingly, we also got to see some yellow-brown monkeys and some of them were really looking aggressive.

Another attraction that we visited was the famous temple of Neel Kanth Mahadeo, situated just 12 km from Rishikesh. Legends say that in ancient times, when the churning of the ocean produced both nectar and poison, a few drops spilled on the earth. The drops of poison were consumed by Lord Shiva at this spot and later on, a temple was made, which is now known as the Neel Kanth Mahadeo temple. Set amidst the forest area, it offers you a chance of walk through the forests.

River Rafting

Being the oldest temple, Bharat Mandir holds our attention as well. Located near the Jhanda Chowk, it is largely visited by rishis (sages) from across the world.

Then our group divided into two groups. Some of them went for enjoying the river rafting while others went on shopping. I am a die-hard adventure and the thrill just doubles my excitement. I must say one should go for this amazing adventure of river-rafting in Rishikesh to treat their adventure buds. But before starting this interesting adventure, you should equipped yourself with light clothes, torches suntan lotion etc.

As Anaida was in shopaholic group, so she came back with the popular shopping items of Rishikesh that include local handicrafts, beaded jewellery and pearls.

Collecting wonderful memories of the Rishikesh Tour, we came back home with a delighted mood.

Gangtok-The Quaint Little Hill Station of India

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim is the destination, I recently visited with my two friends. Me, Denial and Albert were on India tour last month. Located in the Shivalik Hills of the eastern Himalayan range, Gangtok was the perfect destination for all three of us due to our love for adventure.

Rumtek Monastery

We decided to go by air and landed at Bagdogra airport in West Bengal. From Bagdogra, we drove towards Gangtok which took around 4 hours to reach. As we wanted to make this Gangtok tour the cherishable affair for us, we stayed in a luxury hotel. The modern amenities and warm hospitality just made our mood light and helped us to relax at its best.

Surrounded by beautiful view of the mountains, Gangtok just stole away our heart. We devoted the whole day of sightseeing of the famous monasteries of the city.

Situated on a hilltop Enchey Monastery, two hundred years old monastery was the first place that we visited. It is an important seat of the Nyingma order of Buddhism. While going inside, we saw many images of Gods, Goddesses and different other religious objects.

Then, we headed towards the Rumtek Monastery, located 24 km from the town. This monastery belongs to the Kagyupa sect of Buddhism. It is the seat of the 16th Gyawla Karmapa, who was the head of the Karma Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism. We also got to see the Golden Stupa, which holds the cherished relics of the Sixteenth Karmapa.

The next gompa we went to was, the Pemayangste Monastery. We enjoyed an exciting trek to Pemayangtse. Built in the 17^th century by Latsun Chempo, this monastery relates to the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism. Before going there, I had read about the monastery. So I was bit eager to see the magnificent sculptures and beautifully decorated paintings. Well, as read, the monastery justified the description. Denial is very fond of visiting museum and the unique collection. The ancient Buddhist antique statues and scriptures caught his attention.

Albert, being a wildlife lover insisted us to visit the Deer Park there, which we could not refuse. Based on our experience, I would say that the park was worth to pay a visit. Offering spectacular view of nature, the park has an open enclosure housing where we could see the animals like deer, Himalayan bear and Red Panda.

Tsomgo Lake

The day was tiring yet excited and in the evening when we came back to the hotel. Our evening was devoted to the discussions of attractions that we visited that day. Next day, we went for shopping as our other friends (who could not accompany us to this tour) had asked us to bring the specialties of the place. On being searched a lot, we shop for some local specialties like handicrafts, Alpine cheese and tea for them.

On our Tour to Gangtok, the beautiful Tsomgo Lake captured our attention not because of the religious significance but because of its scenic beauty. The tranquility of the lake just took away my heart and I enjoyed the atmosphere for long time. On the banks of the lake, we could view a number of flowers.

At last, we started our favourite section of the Gangtok tour. The exciting adventures of mountain biking and yak safari also became a part of our experience with the help of the state tourism department of Sikkim.

Due to the limited time in hand, we had to bid goodbye to Gangtok. The beautiful shots of the place that we visited kept me delighted throughout the tour.

Taj Mahal Tour- A Trip to Immeasurable Beauty

Tajmahal Tour

Last month, we all 3 sisters planned to go out of the City. Reason being, we were very tired of our monotonous routine life and were looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Delhi, the place we live in. With my two sisters Bhawna and Ekta, I too was very excited for this short trip.

As there was nothing much to do on weekends, we found it the best time to visit Agra. We opted for the convenient travelling option, taxi. Involved in the discussion about Agra, the travel plan and several other fun-filled things we were supposed to enjoy there, we reached Agra after 4 hours. Well, the journey was tiring, but still we were extremely excited to see Taj Mahal.

On being reached Uttar Pradesh, the home land of Taj Mahal we were filled with an amazing feeling. Among one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Taj is one such monument about which I had been reading and listening since my childhood. Fortunately, we got the opportunity to see it in the evening, when it looks the best. Casted by moonlight, the dazzling Taj Mahal was looking spectacular. Built with beautiful white marble, the monument creates an impressive view.

Being there, we did not want to miss out the opportunity to savour the Mughlai cuisine. We found plenty of options but we opted for tandoori chicken, seekh and even tandoori fish, which were followed by petha (a sweet dish) and gazak.

Agra Fort

Lying on the bank of river Yamuna, Agra Fort is another spectacular spot of Agra. Imposing architecture, majestic building and the red sand stone stretches just grabbed our attention. Bhawna, my elder sister just could not take her eyes off from the monument. Though the fort has two gates-the Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gate but the entry was allowed only via the second one. While Ekta was admiring the architectural beauty of the monument, I was just trying to believe myself of being there.

Well, we had some time in our hand, so we decided to visit Fatehpur Sikri to make the most of our visit to Agra. The decision was worth as it gave us the opportunity to explore the royalty and architecture of Mughal era. The monument made in the contemporary style was clearly reflected.

Buland Darwaza and Sikandara were other place which became a part of our exploration during our Agra tour. Being a shopaholic, I could not helm myself buying intricate Mughal style jewellery. It was affordable and above all, having unique designs.

The tour ended and we were ready to back with a bang and a delighted mood!

Sikkim Tour- Exploring the Treasures of Nature

Sikkim, the destination which conjures up the images of immense natural beauty, old monasteries and romantic hills in my mind. With my husband, I had planned it several times but every time we left in lurch. This time when I got to know about 1 week break of my husband, I too applied for leaves. I was feeling myself fortunate enough when I got the approval and we packed our bags for Sikkim Travel.

Rumtek Monastery Sikkim

Leaving from Delhi, we reached Bagdogra Airport from where Sikkim was a six-hour jeep ride away. On being reached theres, I found it among the most beautiful places which I had even seen in my life.The moody weather, the pristine purity, colourful flowers and beautiful peaks just enlighted my mood the moment I entered the place.

We stayed in a comfortable resort lodge in Gangtok which was situated in the outlying areas. The modern facilities and a good view from our room just made it a really refreshing experience for us. The home like atmosphere and scrumptious food allowed us to enjoy our tour without worrying anything. We used to get awake in the early morning as soon as the cool wind entered the room.

Endowed with wondrous natural resources, Sikkim is nestled in the Himalayas and offers an impressive scene with each turn of the road. We found people of Sikkim was very warm and welcome tourists with a big smile on their face which helped us to be friendly with them.

I had heard a lot about the attractions of Sikkim and among those, one was the Rumtek Monastery so I was eager to visit the place. Unwillingly my husband accompanied me to the monastery, which lies about 24 km from Gangtok. This monastery houses a number of sacred things and Golden Stu-pa is worth to mention. Visiting the monastery was to fulfill my much awaited desire to experience the spirituality at a monastery.

On our day trip, we visited Tsomgo lake which is an alpine lake with many rainbow trout. Considered as a sacred lake of Sikkim, it is a must visit attraction. Along with it, we also went Nathuala pass. It used to be a gateway to Tibet and prior to Chinese aggression, it was the only silk route to Lhasa.

Tsomgo Lake

We also visited a 17^th century monastery, known as Pemayangste Monastery. Belonging to the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism, the monastery is known for its majestic sculptures. While seeing their decorated paintings on first floor, I was completely mesmerized.

How can I forget to mention the amazing view of mount Kanchendzonga which we enjoyed during our trip? Believe me, it seems like beckoning you with its spectacular views and to experience it, really enthralled me.

Being a passionate adventure, my husband decided to go for trekking in Sikkim and soon he was there. The thrill and excitement made me hold my breath till the time he was back. I wished to be with him but being scared of heights, I could not make it. After coming back from trekking, my husband told me that trekking through its dense forests, frosty waters and rocky trails is an amazing experience in itself. Next day, we woke up early morning, especially to visit Tiger hill. It was simply awesome and the best part of our Sikkim tour.

I love shopping and the charm becomes double when I am on any tour. The popular shopping items like handicrafts, the wall hangings and Tibetan carpets were just grabbed my attention and I could not help myself from buying them. At the end of our tour we drove to Bagdogra from Darjeeling to come back.  Our Sikkim tour ended with lots of photographs which we clicked with Sikkimese people.