Tales Of A Nomad

Chittorgarh: The Historical Fort

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 04:57:53 GMT

As you stroll through the stunning Chittorgarh fort, it evokes stories of the spirit, valor, pride and romance of the Rajputs, the warrior clan. Sprawling over 700 acres and intimidating over a hillock by the Berach River in Rajasthan, Chittorgarh fort with a 13 km long circumference is the largest fort in Asia. It is believed to have been initially built in the 7^th century A.D. by the Maurya Kings and was later taken over by the Mewar kingdom for a long period. The fort was ruled for 800 years by various dynasties such as Mauryas, Pratiharas, Solankis, Guhilas and Mewars. It was also witness to three attacks by Alauddin Khalji in the 14^thcentury, Bahadur Shah and Akbar in the 16^th century. Legend says that while the men died in the battlefields, the women and children committed Jauhar (self immolation) to save themselves from the wrath of the victorious army. However, the Mewar kings managed to fight back every time and regained hold over Chittorgarh fort, which is considered as the 'Pride of Mewar’. The prominent Mewar rulers who ruled this fort were Ratnasimha, Rana Kumbha, Rana Sanga, Maharana Udai Singh II (Founder of Udaipur) and Maharana Pratap. The Mewar dynasty later moved to Udaipur and made it their capital. Kumbalgarh fort, with one of the longest fort walls in the world is the other major fort that was under the Mewar kings.

Chittorgarh fort is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

Magnificent structures laced with stunning sculptures and intricate carvings are strewn across the fort, which showcases a blend of Rajput and Islamic style architecture. The formidable fort wall runs all across the hillock with seven entrance gates that you need to pass through to reach the insides of the fort. The fort is also sometimes referred as water fort, as it had about 84 water bodies during its prime, of which very few remain today. Rana Kumbha’s palace which is mostly is ruins, once housed many structures such as underground cellars, elephant and horse stables, royal treasury and shrines a well. It is believed that Rani Padmini committed Jauhar inside this palace. Rani Padmini’s palace with a well laid out garden is the other major palace here, and has a small palace (Jal Mahal) inside a large pond. Fateh Prakash palace is presently a museum which houses various artefacts, weaponry, photographs and other displays of the royal family.

The fort also houses numerous Hindu and Jain temples such as Kumbhashyam temple, Kalikamata Temple, Meerabai temple, Tulja Bhavani temple and Satbis Deori Jain temple. There are numerous ponds or reservoirs as well with Gaumukh Kund being the most significant one, as it served as the source of water during the fort’s glorious times. There are also cenotaphs, gates, smaller palaces and more dilapidated structures scattered across.

Despite the magnificent palaces and stunning temples, what garners most of the attention inside Chittorgarh fort is undoubtedly the Vijay Stambh or the Tower of Victory built by Rana Kumbh in the 15^th century to commemorate his victory over the Sultan of Malwa. Emblazoned with spectacular carvings of gods and motifs, this is an absolute stunning piece of artwork and unsurprisingly the most celebrated structure here. Narrow steps lead you to the top of this 37 meter high nine-storeyed structure with magnificent views of the fort through the numerous peep holes. Kirti Stambha, another victory post with elaborate carvings was built in the 12^th century, and is dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain Thirthankara.

The fort also has a sound and light show every day from 7:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M.
Travel Tips:

Chittorgarh fort is open every day from 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M.
The entry charges are INR 50 for adults and INR 25 for children.

How to reach Chittorgarh Fort:

The closest major city is Udaipur, which has an airport and railway station connecting to other cities in India. It is recommended to take a private taxi from Udaipur to reach Chittorgarh fort, which is about 116 kms away. Public transportation is not frequent between Udaipur and Chittorgarh.

Let's Rise!

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 05:03:20 GMT

Like the sun that rises every morning giving us hope to look forward to brighter moments in life, I wish 2021 turns out be much better than what we all went through in 2020. Let's hold each other closer and rise together in the coming year. Hopefully, we will all soon be able to get back to our travelling days again.

Have a memorable and wonderful 2021 full of travels and excitement!

The above picture was captured from the sand dunes of Thar desert in October 2018.

Kumbalgarh Fort: Home to One of the Longest Walls in the World

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 03:57:36 GMT

It wasn’t until I read up about Kumbalgarh fort that I learnt it houses the longest wall in India and the third longest in the world. The fort wall of Kumbalgarh which can be described as Great Wall of India stretches over 36 km across the Aravalli range in Rajasthan. Kumbalgarh fort might not be as extravagant as Chittorgarh fort with impressive structures, but built in the 15^th century by Rana Kumbha, it is one of the prominent forts in Mewar region. Rising to a height of more than 3600 feet, the fort holds great significance in the history of Mewar rulers as it was considered impregnable for a very long period with many attempts by various rulers turning futile. The fort is also the birth place of Maharana Pratap, one of the most celebrated rulers of Mewar.

Kumbalgarh fort is presently a UNESCO World Heritage site under Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

Perched on a craggy hillock, Kumbalgarh fort can be spotted from a distance as you head towards it. The long fort wall with intermittent bastions snaking its way till it bends over makes an interesting and intimidating frame. With thick walls, some stretches of which are fifteen feet wide and seven fortified gateways, Kumbalgarh fort is quite an outstanding work of architecture. There are numerous beautiful Jain and Hindu temples spread across the fort and a couple of stepped tanks as well. The aerial views from Kumbha Palace on top are absolutely spectacular with endless views of hills, the meandering fort wall and various structures inside the fort premises.

Travel Tips:

1. The fort is open every day from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM.

2. The entry charges for the fort are INR 10 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners.

How to reach Kumbalgarh Fort:

The closest major city is Udaipur, which has an airport and railway station as well. It is recommended to take a private taxi from Udaipur to reach Kumbalgarh fort, which is 84 km away. Public transportation is not frequent between Udaipur and Kumbalgarh fort.

Marble Temples of Ranakpur

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 04:39:21 GMT

By the River Maghai and nestled cosily amidst the Aravalli hills in Rajasthan are the magnificent Jain temples of Ranakpur. Made from marble in the 15^th century by a Jain businessman, it apparently took almost 50 years to construct them. It is also considered to be one of the prominent temples in Jainism along with the ones at Dilwara and Palitana. The temples which are known for their extensive intricate carvings, designs and figurines are built in Maru Gurjara style of architecture.

The main temple dedicated to Adinatha (the first Thirthankara) is known as Chaturmukha temple, and is the largest and most elaborately carved temple here. The three-storeyed structure houses 80 domes, 29 halls, 84 underground chambers and more than 1400 carved pillars. There are four entrance doors that lead to the inner chambers and extends further to the inner sanctum, which houses the idol of Adinatha. The extensive carvings and detailing on the pillars, ceiling, and sculptures of elephant, cupolas and various gods and goddesses make the temple an exceptional work of art. The architecture is so unique that it ensures natural light enters the halls, and also keeps the insides of the temple cool.

The other temples are nearby and dedicated to Neminatha, Parshvanatha and Suryanarayan. These temples are much smaller in size, but do have beautiful carvings on the outer facade.

Traveller Tips:

1. There is a minimal charge for camera and phone cameras, if you would like to take photographs.

2. While the temple is open from 6:00 A.M. until 7:00 P.M. everyday, non- Jains can visit only between 12 noon and 5 P.M.

How to reach Ranakpur:

The closest major city is Udaipur, which has an airport and railway station as well. It is recommended to take a private taxi from Udaipur to reach Ranakpur, which is 93 km away. Public transportation is not frequent between Udaipur and Ranakpur.

Darjeeling- The Queen of Eastern Himalayas

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 08:16:00 GMT

85 year old Aku was happy to see visitors and gleefully narrated stories about the secluded monastery, where he is the head monk and caretaker. He was the lone person at the monastery which also offers breathtaking views of the snow clad Himalayas. As I listened to his stories, my eyes loitered around the colourful walls of the monastery and the spectacular views. I was a tad disappointed that it was only on the last day of my travel in Darjeeling that I found this gem, tucked away from the touristy trail. I could have probably spent more time here, otherwise. While some like Aku love meeting people, otherwise like me are on the lookout for serene corners away from the crowds, and Darjeeling ensures that it offers the best of both worlds to both tourists and travellers.

The name Darjeeling translates to Land of Thunderbolt in Tibetan (Dorje means thunderbolt and Ling means place or land). Nestled at a height of a more than 6700 feet in the northern tip of the state of West Bengal, Darjeeling has over the years grown from being a colonial hill station to offering the widely popular Darjeeling tea to cementing itself as one of the prominent tourist destinations in the country. The neighbouring hill stations of Kalimpong and Kurseong too are worth a visit. While the view of the splendid Kanchenjunga, chugging along on the toy train, enjoying a sip of Darjeeling tea and exploring the age old monasteries remain the highlights of this hill town, Darjeeling definitely has more to offer if you are ready to go beyond the guide book.

It was a nice long drive from Bagdogra, the closest airport to Darjeeling as landscapes changed and the frames turned more captivating. Despite being in the east and well known for its sunrises, especially from Tiger Hill, Darjeeling offered a gorgeous sunset with a mélange of hues as I entered the hill town.
I have always believed that the best way to explore any place is by foot and I did that for a large part while exploring Darjeeling. A walk down the road from my hotel led me past the heart of Darjeeling lined with popular cafes, colourful shops and bustling markets to Lloyd Botanical garden. It was a long walk down on slopping roads and through residential areas to the garden, which definitely seemed not too popular on the tourist’s trail. With hardly a soul around, I strolled through the beautiful pathway that meandered through the lush greenery and moss laden trees. Listening to resonance of cicadas and taking in the fragrance of orchids, cacti, herbs and rhododendrons, I soaked in the sunlight that percolated through the canopy, and the surroundings of this 19^th century garden built during the colonial era. The garden is home to a wide range of flora characteristic to Eastern Himalayas with more than 110 species of orchids, and has a glass house as well.

From the serene gardens I trudged back to the market on top and walked further to Happy Valley Tea Estate, the most popular tea gardens in Darjeeling. Though the sun turned harsh by then, the gorgeous intermittent views of the distant hills and colourfully stacked houses amidst them with floating mist to boot made the walk less tiring. I went past the winding road and gardens which had a few workers plucking tea leaves. While the estate is not a sprawling one, the engulfing mountains in the backdrop create a picturesque frame. The tea here came from China, and over the years Darjeeling tea has become one of the renowned teas worldwide. The tea factory here offered a lovely tour of how the tea leaves are plucked, processed and made into tea powder. The tea tasting session offered a deeper insight into different types of tea such as black tea, white tea and green tea.

The next pit stop was at Himalayan Mountaineering Institute within the premise of Padmaja zoological park. The institute has exhibits of equipment, photographs and stories about Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay and various other mountaineers. The stories and displays are quite inspiring and gives you a glimpse of what these adventurers went through while climbing some of the highest peaks in the world. Unfortunately, photography inside the museum is prohibited. Just outside the museum is the statue of Tenzing Norgay where his remains are also kept.

An ideal time to explore the famous mall road of Darjeeling is in the evening. The crowded street which is lined with shops selling myriad items, cafes and restaurants offering continental and Tibetan cuisine, musicians performing and street hawkers selling random things is a vibrant place to enjoy an evening stroll. Relishing different types of momos to tasting Darjeeling tea to buying curios to people watching, I spent most of my evenings in Darjeeling on this street. The evening skies are an absolute treat with a mélange of colours spreading over the horizon.

Probably the most popular activity while exploring Darjeeling is to witness the sun rise from Tiger hill. My driver sped away through the narrow alleys of the town which was still dark except for the sodium vapour lamps at the corners. As we neared the hill at 4.30 A.M., I could sense the crowd up there with numerous vehicles, people hustling to reach the hill, vendors selling tea and photographers walking around with lenses dangling around their necks. That was definitely not a pleasing sight when you would like to experience a serene sunrise. The wait continued until 5.00 A.M. and then the dark sky slowly gave way to a tinge of morning rays. As far as I could see there were floating clouds interspersed with mist and the silhouettes of mountains beyond them. The changing hues over the horizon and the first rays immersing the snow clad peaks in a golden glow was undoubtedly a spellbinding frame. Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world stood tall amidst the clouds and mist, and looked the most prettiest of the lot. While I have always loved the hues of a sunset over sunrise, the gaze waiting to see the orange ball come up was definitely worth it.

Darjeeling has a host of wonderful cafes and restaurants that serve delicious continental breakfast, and post relishing my spread I took a taxi to Japanese Peace Pagoda. Built by the Japanese Buddhist Nipponzan Myohoji organization, the large white pagoda has numerous carvings of Buddha and his preaching. I strolled around the pagoda and visited the adjoining Buddhist temple as well before heading out.

Darjeeling has a couple of old monasteries and I headed out to Druk Sangak Choling Gompa or Dali monastery as it is commonly referred. Built in 1993 and enroute Ghum, what caught my attention at this monastery were its extensive and vibrant wall art. Though the monastery was shut when I visited, it was nice to see numerous young monks going about their daily activities. The monastery is home to more than 300 monks who learn philosophy, literature, meditation, music and dance here.

Next in line was Samten Choling Gompa, by the main road which had a couple of young monks selling Buddhist curios and paraphernalia. The inner sanctum seemed like any other monastery with a huge statue of Buddha, which I was told later by my taxi driver that it’s one of the largest in West Bengal.
Guru Sakya monastery looks like it is built inside fort walls from a distance. It took a while for me to see the red coloured structure in full frame due to the intermittent mist that wafted across. When it finally cleared it was a delight to see many kids playing football with the tall monastery in the backdrop. The art works on the walls are quite an attraction here.
More mist welcomed me at Yiga Choling gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in this region built in 1850. There was some celebration that was coming to an end and the monks happily offered me food and tea. This is also apparently the largest and most popular monastery in Darjeeling. A large statue of Maitreya (known as future Buddha) sat calmly surrounded by beautiful mural works, a huge collection of sacred texts and various smaller statues. A monk lit the lights and incense sticks as I went around gawking at the wonderful works.
Back in town and after a quick lunch at Kunga’s, a Tibetan restaurant which serves delicious fried momos, I rushed to Darjeeling Railway station to get on the popular Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. A UNESCO World Heritage area, this mountain rail was built in 1881 connecting 13 stations over 88 km on a mountainous terrain during the British colonial rule. Criss crossing along the Hill Cart road, running along loops and reversing on a ‘Z’ shaped layout are some of the highlights of this train ride apart from the lovely vistas all along. I took the ride to Ghum, the highest railway station in India at more than 7400 feet. The steam locomotive from the bygone era was a charmer and created a sense of nostalgia as it chugged its way past the town and alongside the road. Apart from the shrilling sound it gave out intermittently, the ride was quite a pleasant experience. The train had a short stop at Batasia loop which has a small but pretty garden and overlooks the city of Darjeeling. Ghum railway station reminded me of some of the old railway stations that you can probably see in movies from 1960s or 70s. The station also houses a museum which displays stories, pictures and technicalities of how the rail line was built more than a century ago. Back in Darjeeling, it was time for more nonchalant walks, sunset views and café hopping.

My last day in Darjeeling started with a late and delicious continental breakfast at Tom & Jerry café. A stroll towards observatory hill led me to St. Andrew’s church, a pretty looking white structure against the blue skies. The church was closed and I walked further ahead to the view point on observatory hill. The views of the spectacular snow clad Kanchenjunga peak with clear skies were absolutely breathtaking. All that I did was to gaze at it in oblivion, while sipping multiple cups of tea. This vantage point undoubtedly offers the best view of Kanhenjunga from Darjeeling.

Back amidst the crowd, the long road down from Mall road took me to Bhutia Basti monastery, the prettiest monastery (more for its location) in Darjeeling. The views enroute are scenic and that helped me to go on, despite losing my way a couple of times. The 19^th century monastery was earlier located in Sikkim and then transferred to the Observatory hill in Darjeeling before being moved again to its present location due to a Gorkha invasion. The interiors are adorned with the statue of Buddha and beautiful murals. The picturesque location with views of endless snow clad mountains and deep gorges is absolutely spectacular and adds to the charm of the monastery. If I come back to Darjeeling, I would love to spend solitude time at this monastery and listen to more stories from the head monk, Aku.

How to reach Darjeeling:

Located in West Bengal, the closest airport to Darjeeling is at Bagdogra, 70 Kms away. From Bagdogra you can take a private taxi to reach Darjeeling. Public transportation such as shared jeeps is available as well, which could work out cheaper.

Food and Accommodation:

Darjeeling is well known for its numerous cafes and restaurants that serve continental and Tibetan cuisine. If you would like to check out Darjeeling tea, head to Nathmull’s. There are a host of options to stay from hostels to resorts to choose from. I stayed at Golden Dolma hotel near mall road, which is well recommended.

Ten Must Visit Cafes and Restaurants in Darjeeling

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 04:50:38 GMT

When you talk about Darjeeling, beyond mountains and monasteries, what pops up in every mind would be Darjeeling Tea. This hill station is widely popular for its tea, which is considered one of the best across the globe. There are quite a few shops that sell high quality Darjeeling tea and different other varieties as well in this hill town nestled at the foot of Eastern Himalayas. Being a popular hill station since the colonial times, Darjeeling has seen travellers and tourists in large numbers over the years. As the travellers thronged this beautiful hill station, this resulted in numerous hotels, resorts, cafes and restaurants sprouting across the town. From Tibetan to Continental to Chinese to Indian, there are a wide range of eateries across Darjeeling to tingle your taste buds.

Below are some of the must visit eateries that I suggest to visit while exploring Darjeeling.

1. Kunga

Quite a popular place near the Mall road, Kunga majorly offers Tibetan cuisine and probably serves the best Momos in Darjeeling. From thukpas to thenthuks to wantons to fried momos, the restaurant has a delicious spread of Tibetan dishes. The restaurant also offers continental breakfast. Make sure to visit Kunga early as getting a table here is quite a challenge, but definitely worth the wait.

2. Tom and Jerry

This cute little café, tucked away from the main road is a delightful breakfast joint if you are looking for continental cuisine. Their pancakes and hash brownies are absolutely delicious and well recommended. The service is excellent and the place has a nice décor with books and wall paintings of the iconic Tom and Jerry.

3. Nathmull’s

Nathmull’s is probably the best place to pick up the renowned Darjeeling tea bags. Apart from the different varieties of tea that you can purchase, they also help you understand the differences and suggest the tea leaves/ powder that suits your taste. Nathmull’s also has a café where they serve sandwiches, burgers, cakes and other short eats. Do check out their quirky collection of tea pots.

4. Sonam’s Kitchen

A short walk away from the Mall road leads to Sonam’s Kitchen, a popular place for breakfast and brunch. The restaurant is well known for its English breakfast, French toast, sandwiches, hash brownies, pancakes and ginger lemon tea. It is open only until 2:30 P.M. every day and breakfast is served until then.

5. Glenary’s

If you are looking for a fancy place to enjoy your meal, head to Glenarys, a lovely café and restaurant overlooking the hills. While you can enjoy short eats such as pastries and cakes at the lower floor, head up if you are keen on a relaxed lunch or dinner with a bigger spread. The white coloured building with a tinge of colonial charm located near the clock tower is hard to miss.

6. Shangri-La

Shangri-La, as the name suggests serves a good spread of Chinese and Tibetan cuisine. The restaurant is inside an old fashioned heritage building with a nice warm ambience. Their momos and thukpas are well recommended. The place is open for both lunch and breakfast. Apart from the restaurant, Shangri-La also has a bar and rooms as well.

7. Himalayan Java Coffee

Are you missing caffeine while in Darjeeling? If so, head to Himalayan Java Coffee to enjoy your cappuccino! Overlooking the crowded streets of Darjeeling, sip your coffee and see the world go by. The neatly done up chic cafe serves a wide range of cakes and pastries as well.

8. Joey’s Pub

Away from the hustle bustle of the touristy lanes of Darjeeling, Joey’s Pub enroute the railway station is a cosy pub with wooden interiors and has a colonial charm. This is also the only pub in Darjeeling to unwind after a good day of exploration. As you listen to the music, gulp down that mug of beer and let your mind wander, Joey’s Pub would easily beguile as one of the old British country pubs.

9. Keventer’s

A landmark place in Darjeeling, Keventer’s, a 100 year old establishment is well known for its English breakfast, sandwiches, burgers, sausages and cutlets. While the lower floor has a bakery from where you can take away, it is recommended to relish your breakfast on the open terrace with magnificent views of the snow clad mountains.

10. Chowrasta

Nehru road that leads to Chowrasta, a boulevard, has a line of road side vendors who sell pipping hot momos and a couple of other delicacies. Check them out if you are up for some momo binging.

How to Reach Darjeeling:

Located in Northern West Bengal, the closest airport to Darjeeling is at Bagdogra, 70 Kms away. From Bagdogra you can take a private taxi to reach Darjeeling. Public transportation such as shared jeeps are available as well, which could work out cheaper.

Here Are the Most Unusual Destinations for Experienced Nomads

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 04:04:06 GMT

Traveling around the world and experiencing different cultures and meeting lovely peculiar people are a big dream for most travellers, but only a few of us get to embark on such journeys. Experienced nomads are hardcore travel enthusiasts that brave the challenges of unknown countries and places all over the world. In this article, let’s look at some unusual destinations that an experienced nomad may not have been to yet, and should definitely visit.

1. Brazilian Pantanal

Considered as the world’s largest flooded grasslands or wetland, the Brazilian Pantanal would be a fascinating place for an experienced nomad to tackle and explore. These flooded fields are teeming with biodiversity. From cute capybaras to dangerous predators such as the caiman, this place will satiate that thirst for exploration in any experienced nomad.

You can explore the Brazilian Pantanal on a small cruise across the wetlands, seeing all the different unique fauna and flora along the way. Even though it gets fewer tourists than the famous Amazon forest, the Brazilian Pantanal is still a destination worth visiting at least once.

2. Armenia

Armenia is a beautiful country rich with history and culture. This destination is a must-visit for any nomad looking to experience one of the earliest Christian civilizations in the world. The city of Yerevan is an excellent start for any traveller looking to explore the wonders of Armenia on an adventure holiday of a lifetime. The capital of Armenia and its largest city, Yerevan is full of history waiting to be explored.

A private tour around the city and its surrounding areas is worth every second. The best trips around the city are during the day as it is also known as the City of Cafes. If you’re confused about where in Armenia you should visit, Yerevan is the place to go.

3. Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is located in Central Asia and has been a part of multiple great empires and civilizations over thousands of years as it lies on the crossroads of the ancient trading route named ‘The Silk Road’. This gorgeous country may not be the most popular tourist destination but it sure is worth visiting for an experienced nomad. While trekking in Kyrgyzstan, you can visit the second largest mountain lake in the world, Issyk Kul Lake. Go on picnics and hikes in the Ala Archa National Park as well. You can even visit the vast pasture plains of Song Kul Lake where native nomads graze their animals as they have been doing for centuries.

4. Azerbaijan

The wonderful fusion of medieval times and modernity, Azerbaijan is a destination any experienced nomad should visit at least once in their lives. The first destination one should explore while in Azerbaijanis its capital city, Baku. Baku is situated along the beautiful Caspian Sea and is famous for the medieval walled city of Cheri Seher which beautifully blends with the modern skyscrapers. Strolling through the city, you’ll experience thousands of years of history and culture all concentrated in one place.

5. The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands is one of the common bucket-list travel destinations and for good reasons too. If you’re an experienced nomad and haven’t been to the islands, then you have to step up your game. Located off the coast of Ecuador, this beautiful archipelago consists of 19 islands. Going on private rainforest cruisesin a small cruiser is the best way to experience the islands and its unique endemic wildlife.

Conclusion:

So those are our top picks for unusual destinations for experienced nomads to visit. If you are one who hasn’t visited any of these places, do head out soon as these destinations are spellbinding and rich in unique culture and history.

P.S.: This is a collaborative post

Top 5 Amazing European Destinations Nomads Need to Visit

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 03:26:56 GMT

Nomads regularly move from one place to another, and many of them have travelled all around the world. However, there might be some who have not yet visited the vibrant cities and historical areas in Europe. Here are some of the most amazing destinations to visit while you are in Europe.

1. Turkish Spas in Turkey

You would most commonly hear that Turkey is famous for Kebabs and Turkish Delights apart from its carpets and rugs. But did you know that Turkey has some of the best spas you would find in the entire Europe?

Istanbul has approximately 269 spas and wellness destinations and topping all of them is the Cagaloglu Hamami. Suleyman Aga designed Cagaloglu Hamamito has architectural and historical significance. This spa is the final great Turkish bath said to be built just before the construction of great baths was prohibited by Sultan Mustafa III back in 1768.

2. Canals of England

Who said you cannot enjoy an exploration of the English Canals in the UK? There is no doubt that nomads will love an exploration of the canals of England. Most tourists have found narrowboat renting to be a new experience for their vacation and exploration. Chas Hardern is one of the established companies that allow you to rent narrowboats and have a trip down the canal. The most popular routes for nomadic narrowboat holidays in England, as they are known are the Cheshire ring, Cambridge waterways, and Grand Union Canal.

3. Party in Ibiza

The third largest of the Balearic Islands, which is branded as an autonomous community of Spain is Ibiza. Most people tend to believe that swimming is the only activity that they can ever do in the Ibiza beaches.

However, Ibiza is notoriously known to have over 50 heavy electronic-themed party nights. From Glow Neon parties in Es Paradis to Flower Power themed parties in Pacha, they have it all. One of the most famous and favourite parties in Ibiza that brings a distinct type of Urban Flair is La Espuma which is the only foam party available here.

4. Go Island Hopping in Greece

If you are planning an adventurous Mediterranean holiday, Greece would be one of the most magical and wonderful places to visit. Here, you can plan an Island hopping within the Mediterranean Sea in Greece or visit the Iguana Beach in Crete, which is known for its easterly cove and pristine waters.

You can also plan a trip to Kalathos in Rhodes which is less windy or the famous Pelion peninsula which has the tiny caste.

5. Wild Camping in Scotland

Wild camping is a famous activity in Scotland due to its surroundings and atmosphere. Some of the most famous Scottish wild camping sites which you can enjoy are Loch Lomond, Aviemore, Pitlochry, and Glencoe. Of course, there are guides going around these camping sites to preserve its natural beauty.

Conclusion:

Make your vacation unique and brilliant by visiting these amazing places. You will be surprised by how much fun you and your family or friends will have.

P.S.: This is a collaborative post.

Top 4 Things to Do in Mallorca

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 03:17:57 GMT

Mallorca is known as the main and largest island of Spain in terms of area. It is one of the top 2 most populated places among the Balearic Islands. It is wonderfully filled with breathtaking coastal drives, towns, wineries, hiking trails, cycling roads, limestone mountains, sandy beaches, and private coves.

What are you waiting for? Explore the vastness and beauty Mallorca has to offer!

These are the top 4 things to do when visiting this wonderful place:

Eat Some Amazing Seafood in Palma:

Flying into Palma De Mallorca would be most satisfying when you take time to eat some amazing seafood. You can use this past time to check in on your flight delay cover and a great way to appease your hunger.

The Balearic Islands are known for their passion for seafood and fish. The place indeed has a wide array of traditional menus and fusion cuisines wherein fresh produce is given much importance.You can enjoy food from Michelin-starred restaurants preparing world-class food.

Here are some of the restaurants you can visit:

Sadrassana:

This 19^thCentury establishment is owned by an art gallery named Horrach Moyà. The place has a delicious menu of dishes, namely the Rack of Lamb and the Suckling Pig.

Kurobota:

One of the most sought after food this store can cook for you is their Steamed Pork Belly Buns, which are worth the try. They also have Soft-shelled Crabs you can feast on, and even have a professional mixologist to bring you top-notch and unique cocktails.

Visit the Mallorca Caves:

There are more than 200 caves around the Mallorca island. Here are some of the caverns you can venture during your stay:

Dragon Caves or the Cuevas del Drach:

It is one of the most striking caves in the area. These caves have canopies that dramatically drip from the ceilings and astonishing stalactites.

Cuevas de Artá:

It is found on the top of a cliff overseeing the Canyamel bay.The entrance room of the cave is similar in size to the nave of La Seu Cathedral. Meanwhile, the Queen’s room is surrounded with formations that grow almost less than a half annually.

Go Kayaking:

Going on a kayaking adventure in the Mallorca Islands is an outstanding substitute for your beach escapade. It welcomes you to the hidden natural reserves of the place which can only be reached through waters.

There are guided kayaking tours to assist you and make the tour easier. You just have to choose the package and the company that works best for you.The most beautiful sceneries are situated on the west and north coast where the Serrade Tramuntana is located. One kayak trip often takes around two to four hours to complete.

If you love snorkeling, then you may do so in the crystal clear waters of Mallorca. Stony corals and sea anemones dominate the cliffs while moray eels as well as squids are in the unseen fissures.

Take a Spanish Cooking Class:

Lonja 18 is an open kitchen in Mallorca where you can take top notch Spanish cooking classes.

They will teach the great classics of Spain and give you a hands-on cooking practice of a full four-course Spanish cuisine.

You can even incorporate your regular cooking class with a market tour. This shall consist of a directed visit to their famous market called Santa Catalina. This way, you’ll see the fresh ingredients first hand. You will also be guided on what ingredients you need for the recipes you prepare.

P.S.: This is a collaborative post.

Here are the Best Places to Stay on Your Visit to Europe

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 05:20:16 GMT

Europe is a beautiful getaway destination with outstanding places to stay in. Whether you are travelling with your partner, family, or group of friends, you will be impressed by what this continent has to offer. Below are some of the best places to stay that will make your vacation in Europe a remarkable experience:

1. Igloo in Kakslauttanen

The Igloo in the Kakslauttanen Artic Resort in Finland is a luxurious place to stay in. The resort has 65 glass igloos: 53 for two people and 12 igloos for four people. The igloos have a fireplace, kitchenette, as well as a private bathroom and sauna.

The two-person igloo comes with a toilet and an optional extra bed. The bedroom has a beautiful glass roof that makes this place great for viewing the northern lights.

Apart from spending the night gazing at the bright starry sky, there are a lot of activities that visitors can do in Kakslauttanen resort. During winter, the hotel accommodates activities like ice fishing, sleigh rides with huskies, and snowmobile rides. Other activities include panning for gold and horseback riding.

2. Stay in a Villa in Dubrovnik

Staying in one of the villas in Dubrovnik is a good way to make the most of your vacation in Europe. Dubrovnik is famous for hosting charming, unique, and luxurious Croatian villaswith magnificent views. Some of the best villas in this region include Villa Marco, Villa Vega, Apartment Laura, Villa Zeus, Villa Mlini, and more.

These villas are perfect for couples, families, and groups who prefer authentic experience and a peaceful atmosphere. Most villas come with a pool while others feature an outdoor jacuzzi for ultimate relaxation. Plus, villas like Apartment Laus are in proximity to historical attractions where you can spend the day learning more about the region’s history.

3. Stay in Classic Lake District Cottage

If you enjoy independence and luxury while travelling, consider staying in one of the classic Lake District independent cottages that are by the winding roads around the surrounding hills. Lake District is home to a wide selection of cottages that can accommodate couples as well as a large group of people.

Most of these cottages are in the popular towns in Lake District such as Keswick, Ambleside, Grasmere, and Windermere. If you enjoy the outskirts, you can also find Lake District cottages in areas like St. John and Grange.

Lake District is loved by many tourists because of its scenic views and attractions in the area. Here, you can go trekking up England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, or take a boat ride in one of the 16 lakes. Families can also visit the national park that covers about 2,000 square kilometres.

4. Stay in Tree House in Berlin

Adventurous and nature lovers will enjoy spending the holiday in the gorgeous tree house in Berlin, Germany. Interestingly, the tree houses feature a modern and sleek design with amenities like a full kitchen, bathroom with rain shower, steam room, and more.

Not only are these tree houses great getaways, but they are also a unique way to enjoy nature. Since they are located far from the city, they provide the perfect opportunity to hike and bike along the forest paths. Besides, some are near the lake where visitors can head to swim or sunbath.

Conclusion:

People come to Europe for vacations, and it’s for good reasons. After all, this beautiful continent has a lot to offer including wonderful hotels and resorts. The places above are all unique and extraordinary to make your stay in Europe quite exceptional.

P.S.: This is a collaborative post.

Top 5 Food and Wine Destinations for the Foodie Nomad

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 03:47:33 GMT

While some eat food to survive, others eat to feel alive. These people are foodies, and those who are willing to travel to enjoy various dishes are dubbed as foodie nomads.

If you consider yourself a foodie nomad, you should know about these top 5 food and wine destinations.

Top Food and Wine Destinations for Foodie Nomads

Greece:

Greek cuisine is known for its Greek salads and Giros, but it has so much more to offer. You should try their tasty Taramasalata, which is a mainstay of most Greek meals.

You should also not miss out tasting the different varieties of Dolmades, which commonly a classic vine life parcel stuffed with meat and long-grain.

The Greeks also know how to cook meat very well, whether it is spit-roasted or charcoal grilled. They even taste better when paired with fresh pita bread with some tzatziki. On top of all that, you can enjoy their delicious food along with the great scenery of nature and scenic landscapes.

France:

If you are a true foodie, then you know that France is a must-visit. They have plenty of beautiful and delicious pastries and bread that you should discover.

Not only that, but they also have a wide selection of wine. You can experience their exquisite taste by doing a wine tour of the Loire Valley, which is a popular place for high-quality wine in France.

Thailand:

Are you looking for a budget-friendly food destination? Then Thailand might just be the place for you.

Along the busy and bustling streets of Thailand, you can get a bowl of hot and satisfying GuayTeow noodle soup. You can have it with pork, beef, or chicken. Some vendors also even add some meatballs and wantons to the broth.

If you love spicy food, then taste some authentic Yam Talay or Laab. Yam Talay is a type of spicy seafood salad. It is not only very healthy but delicious and appetizing as well.

Meanwhile, Laab is another type of Thai salad that is from the northern region. It is mixed with mint, mushroom, and meat for a refreshing yet mouthwatering taste.

Italy:

When you hear about Italy, the first thing that might come into your mind is the word pasta. If that is the case, you should definitely try to learn how to cook pasta in Florencewhen you visit Italy.

You should also definitely visit Sicily and taste their regional cuisine and fine wine. You will be amazed by how much people love their food in this country, so as a foodie, you will fit right in!

Argentina:

Want some amazing steak? If you do, then you should visit Argentina.

Their vast grassland is one of the best places to raise cattle and other domesticated animals. This enables them to have high-quality meat for steak. Their expertise in cooking meat and adding spices and unique flavors makes the steak even more impressive.

Final Word:

So, where is your next destination? Regardless of what destination you choose among the countries listed above, be sure to prepare for a gastronomic adventure of a lifetime.

P.S.: This is a collaborative post.

Top Places to Visit in Kalimpong

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 03:37:58 GMT

The first impression of Kalimpong is that of one of the innumerable bustling and dusty small towns in India. The town of Kalimpong which is just 50 Kms away from its big brother, Darjeeling, has a few interesting attractions which include Buddhist monasteries, nurseries, colonial architecture and magnificent views of the snow clad Eastern Himalayas. The drive from Darjeeling to Kalimpong is a nice winding one through lush greenery with river Teesta and snow mountains popping up intermittently. The town spreads itself over a ridge and was once a prominent link along the trade route with Tibet. Kalimpong is also culturally an important place and was a part of Bhutan during the colonial era. With tea plantations booming across Darjeeling and surrounding areas during colonial times, the face of this region changed with trade really picking up. While the town in itself might not be too appealing due to the chaos, Kalimpong has its numerous corners overlooking the magnificent landscape that engulfs it.

Here are a few of the must visit places in Kalimpong:

Colonial Remnants:

With the Biritsh colonial rule and influence of Scottish missionaries, Kalimpong witnessed churches and missionary schools being built alongside temples and monasteries, bringing in varied architectural styles. A walk along the secluded narrow by-lanes of Kalimpong would reveal some of the colonial beauties that have withstood time. One of the popular structures is Graham’s house, which belonged to a Scottish missionary, Dr. J.A. Graham. It was an educational institution for the children of British planters and estate workers in 1900s. The chapel nearby is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows. Morgan’s House, which is presently a tourist lodge run by the tourism department is another beautiful structure from the colonial era.

Kalimpong is also known for its gorgeous churches such as St. Teresa’s church known for its Bhutanese Gompa architectural influences. Macfarlane memorial church built in late 19^th century in memory of Rev. Macfarlane is another prominent colonial structure in Kalimpong.

Nurseries:

Kalimpong is home to many nurseries and also produces exotic varieties of orchids and cacti apart from gladioli, roses and anthuriums. Pine View nursery with its huge collection of cacti is one of the most popular nurseries in the town. The view of Kalimpong from here is a pretty one. Some of the other nurseries in Kalimpong are Holumba Haven, Universal nursery and Standard nursery. Most of these nurseries hold flower exhibitions as well in October every year.

Durpin Gompa:

Often referred as Durpin Gompa, Zang Dhog Pelri gompa was consecrated in the year 1976 by Dalai Lama and sits atop Durpin hill from which the gompa get its name. Adorned with mandalas and wall paintings, the interiors of the monastery are vibrant. One can walk up to the top deck of this Nyingmapa monastery and enjoy the magnificent views of the hills from there. Near to the monastery is a nice view point which offers a bird’s eye view of the beautiful undulating hills and river Teesta.

Tharpa Choling Gompa:

This gompa belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and was built in the year 1992 overlooking the town of Kalimpong. The premise also houses a new monastery and has a few chortens as well. The view of the colourful houses scattered over the hills from Tharpa Choling gompa is an interesting sight.

Thongsa Gompa:

Founded in 1678 A.D., Thongsa Gompa is the oldest monastery in Kalimpong and is also referred as the Bhutanese monastery. The original structure was destroyed in local wars and the present one was built in the 19^thcentury. The monastery has a couple of chortens and more than two hundred prayer wheels.

Deolo Hill:

A winding road leads to Deolo Hills, the highest point in Kalimpong with a large open park. Deolo hill offers captivating panoramic views of the engulfing distant mountains, deep valleys and river Teesta snaking its way through them. Even Mount Kanchenjunga can be sighted from here on a clear day. Enroute the hill lies a large satue of Buddha seated on a statue and a view point named Sherpa view point.

Army Golf Course:

Laid out along the Durpin Hill, the Army Golf course opposite Morgan’s house offers lovely views of the surrounding hills and villages. Enjoy a cup of tea from the army canteen and gaze at the vistas from the highest golf course in West Bengal.

Forest Museum:

Nature Interpretation Centre or the Forst museum as it is commonly referred has a nice collection of photographs of Kalimpong, it’s forests, animals and landscape. This museum is a great place to understand in detail about Kalimpong’s ecosystem.

How to reach Kalimpong:

Kalimpong is 52 Kms away from Darjeeling and 67 Kms from Siliguri. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, 78 Kms away and the closest railway station is at Siliguri. There are private taxis available from both Darjeeling and Siliguri to Kalimpong. There are frequent local jeeps plying between these towns as well.

Accommodation and Food:

Holumba Haven, Deki Lodge and Himalayan Hotel are some of the recommended places to stay in Kalimpong. There are cheaper places as well within the town. There are quite a few small eateries in Kalimpong, but two of the must visit places are Zakhang, for its authentic Bhutanese cuisine and Art Café for its continental cuisine and amazing views.

Stacked Up!

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 03:31:53 GMT

Colourful houses and buildings stacked up together like match boxes are a common pretty frame that one can sight at many popular hill stations across India. Howsoever colourful and pretty they might seem, in reality it is encroachment of a hill; and all that remains of it are the sporadic 'greens' that you might easily miss out amidst the blues, reds and yellows.

Kalimpong, West Bengal. October 2019.

5 Safest and Best Rated Taxi Services in Kerala During the Lockdown

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 03:01:34 GMT

Known to the rest of the world as God’s Own Country, Kerala boasts of an expansive coastline on the South-western side of the Malabar Coast. Its exotic backwaters and rich heritage undoubtedly make Kerala a dreamy escape for travelers across the world. Its scenic beauty along with the umpteen number of activities to indulge in make it hard to not fall in love with this slice of paradise on earth.

With some of the best places in Kerala scattered around, one of the ideal ways to get around is by renting a safe and convenient taxi service. Call for a convenient door to door pick up and go sightseeing with your friends and family. These hassle-free experiences save you the inconvenience of an uncomfortable commute - every traveller’s nightmare. Most of these car rental companies offer drivers who are well-versed with the roads, know a lot about local history, and can give a nice tour of all the good places, including hidden gems in their state.

Kerala is well-connected via roads. Its amazing network of roads allows commuters to get to any part of Kerala in just a few hours. While there are a ton of options out there, we bring to you only the best so you can make a safe choice in the post-COVID world.

Some of the safest and best-rated taxi services in Kerala that you can trust during the lockdown are:

1. Savaari Car Rentals

Founded in 2006, Savaari Car Rentals is known to offer its services in 130+ cities in India. Rated 4.4 on Google with over 2000 reviews, Savaari takes the extra mile to give its customers a great travel experience. From offering travel kits to real-time food-breaks suggestions during the trip, Savaari prides itself on being the real road trip expert and their blogs surely speak volumes for this testimony. They cover a wide range of services such as intercity, one-way, airport pick and drop as well as local rentals. Their cab offerings vary from hatchbacks, sedans, luxury cars, SUVs to 16 seater tempo travelers. But what makes Savaari one of the best car rentals in India is that they offer COVID digit insurance to its driver-partners as well as customers during the pandemic, thus redefining safe travel in the post-COVID world. Get a taste of Savaari’s excellent service with a car on rent in Thrissur with an experienced driver.

2. Kerala Taxis

Boasting an amazing team of car rental and tourism professionals, Kerala Taxis assures a hassle-free experience and all the positive feedback left by people on their website will only strengthen your faith in them. Their taxis are well-maintained and they take immense pride in offering only their best vehicles to the customers. Being a Kochi based taxi company, they sure know some of the best places in and around, so be rest assured of a great and comfortable time with them. Their drivers are well trained and have a record of being on time.

3. Grandeur Car and Coach Hire

Whether it is a business trip or a leisure holiday, Grandeur Car and Coach Hire will have you covered regardless. Their mantra is “Safety, Sincerity, Good faith, and Genuineness”. Located in surfer’s paradise, this car rental company ensures each of its drivers are thoroughly screened and carefully selected through interviews. They are well versed in English and Hindi. This car rental takes its customers very seriously. Their round the clock customer support only shows their dedication in ensuring a comfortable time to each of their customers, making it one of the most trusted taxi services in Kerala. For all their airport pickups, they ensure the guests are graciously received with a placard bearing the names and other details.

4. Avis India

AVIS India offers premium cars for rent. They offer cars with or without a driver. Their mobile app makes booking a car an effortless experience. The company is recognized world over as a strong, iconic and truly global brand, catering to the expectations of all business, corporate & leisure travelers. Founded in 1946, Avis was launched as a company to rent cars from airport locations.

5. Le-Cabz

Le Cabz has a large fleet of cars, utility vehicles, coaches with all India permits. These folks make renting a car ridiculously simple. They take their visitor experience quite seriously. Not beaten on price for economy car hire in Kerala, they are one of the most affordable car hire companies offering brand new cars. Most of their customers love the price offered by Le-Cabz and have applauded their dedication in providing brand new cars to their clients.

With COVID changing the way people travel, the above-mentioned car rental companies are strictly following all precautions to curb the spread of the contagious disease. Savaari is one such company that has strictly adhered to all precautions recommended by WHO. Keeping in mind the safety of their customers as well as their driver-partners on the road, all cabs are sanitized and disinfected at regular intervals, drivers are trained to practice social distancing and mandatorily wear a face mask. Savaari’scar rentals in Kottayam is quite popular for being a safe and reliable mode of transport in Kerala.

P.S.: This is a sponsored post.

Lover's Confluence

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 03:18:23 GMT

The Lover's view point between Darjeeling and Kalimpong offers a magnificent view of the the confluence of River Tessta and River Rangeet. The hills on the left are a part of Sikkim and the ones on the right fall under the territory of West Bengal. It is easy to discern the rivers with the difference in colour apart from the direction of the flow. Teesta flows from north Sikkim separating Sikkim and West Bengal for a large distance, and Rangeet joins Teesta from the left as seen in the above frame. The white sandy stretch near the confluence is often used as a launch for river rafting on Teesta.

Mountains are Calling!

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 06:38:52 GMT

It's not just the mountains; even beaches, lakes, roads, forts, islands, waterfalls and wildlife as well are calling every travelling soul out there during these uncertain times. It would take a while before travelling becomes common again, an even when it does post COVID 19, the way we travel is going to be totally different.

However, until travel sneaks its way back into our life, let's relive our old travels through photographs, videos, experiences, views, adventures and numerous memories that we have collected over the years. Go search your hard discs and phone galleries to run through them for some virtual travels.

Am gazing at the above picture of Kanchenjunga Peak (taken in October 2019 near Darjeeling) today to celebrate the completion of 11 years of Tales of a Nomad.

Islands of Kadamakkudy

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 03:50:58 GMT

Kadamakkudy was half awake as we manoeuvered the car through its narrow alleys sandwiched between marshy lands, mangroves, fish farms and endless paddy fields. There was hardly anyone outside at 6:30 in the morning. Google map wasn’t really helpful as I took a few wrong detours to turn up at dead ends with gorgeous views of the backwaters, fishing nets, slanting coconut trees, paddy fields, numerous birds and a few solo fishermen going about their chores. Most of these islands are still not connected by a road or a bridge and we had to take a couple of make shift ferry services. These are a few small boats tied up together and operated with an engine to help people and vehicles hop on from one island to another. It is an interesting experience to float away with your vehicle on the serene backwaters and enjoy the surroundings.

Kadamakkudy in the suburbs of Ernakulam is a cluster of 14 islands- Valiya Kadamakudy , Pizhala, Cheriya Kadamakudy, Murikkal, Palyam Thuruth, Pulikkapuram, Moolampilly, Kothad, Korambadam, Kandanad, Puthussery, Chariyam Thuruth, Chennur and Karikkad Thuruthu. The islands are majorly known for their large cultivation of Pokkali rice and fish farms.

I wouldn’t say there is a list of places to see or explore in Kadamakkudy. Instead, the place is all about soaking in the surrounding, nature and landscape. The breathtaking landscape and the engulfing tranquility would definitely leave anyone gazing in oblivion. This is a great place for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who love landscapes and avian fauna. There are more than 70 species of birds around these islands. With beautiful narrow alleys running through the country side, Kadamakkudy islands offer lovely trails for cyclists as well. The islands are known for its sunrises and sunsets, and it is well recommended to visit Kadamakkudy during either of these times.

Travel Tips:

There aren’t any good restaurants except for a couple of toddy shops.
Visit early in the morning or in the evening.
If you would like to cover multiple islands, it is ideal to come in own vehicle

How to reach Kadamakkudy islands:

Kadamakkudy islands are 18 Kms away from Ernakulam. If travelling by own vehicle, cross over the islands of Bolghatty, Mulavukad and Moolampilly to reach Pizhala, the main island in Kadammakudy. Alternately you can take a bus from Ernakalum to Varappuzha and then take another bus to Kadamkkudy. There are also boat services from Ernakulam, but the frequency and timing needs to be checked prior to the visit.

Thumboormuzhi Dam and Butterfly Park

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 03:19:36 GMT

A spate of butterflies welcome as you walk through the large entrance gates of Thumboormuzhi dam and butterfly park. The check dam on Chalakkudy river in Kerala is enroute Athirapilly waterfalls and is a popular attraction on this road that leads further to Malakkapra and Valparai.

Fluttering and colourful under the bright sunlight, visitors can easily spot Buddha Mayoori, Blue Glassy Tiger, Garuda, Striped Tiger and more than hundred other species of butterflies here. It is an absolute eye soother to see them flutter around this park by the banks of Chalakkudy river.

Further ahead lies and children’s park and then the hanging bridge over Chalakkudy river. The dam was built for irrigation of the farm lands in and around Chalakkudy area. A walk on the hanging bridge offers picturesque vistas of the gushing Chalakkudy river, Thumboormuzhi dam that checks its flow, rocks protruding from the river, hills in the backdrop and surrounding lush greenery. Across the bridge is Ezhattumukham, the other bank of the river, which offers an access to the waters and visitors can take a dip in the same.

While visiting the dam post monsoons is ideal as the river would be at its furious best, the butterfly season is prior to the monssons. Thumboormuzhi is an underrated one day getaway from Kochi and Thrissur which many skip in a hurry to reach Athirapilly waterfalls.

Travel Tips:

The dam is open from 9 AM to 5 PM
There are entry charges of INR 15 per person
There are a few shops that sell short eats and snacks on Ezhattumukham bank.

How to reach Thumboormuzhi Dam:

Thumboormuzhi dam is 45 Kms from Thrissur and 60 Kms from Ernakulam (Cochin). The dam lies on the Athirappilly road, and the nearest main town is Chalakkudy, 17 Kms away. There aren’t frequent public transportation services to Thumboormuzhi, and it is recommended to visit in your private vehicle.

How travel is going to change post the COVID-19?

Mon, 18 May 2020 03:00:02 GMT

Since most of us entered into lockdown in March , the world as we know it has changed drastically. After we emerge from the lockdown not everything will go back to the way it was - especially travel. Every aspect of travelling will need social distancing in it – from where you can travel to how you can sit on a plane. So how can we travel responsibly post the COVID-19 phase?

1. Start with travelling closer to home - Most countries would be coming out of lockdown at different points of time. They would also be having restrictions on letting in outsiders. It is better to plan your first vacation within the country or somewhere closer to your country. Choose a good getaway within your country. You will have hands-on information about the situation in your own country rather than a foreign place.

2. Choose your accommodation with someone you trust - To maintain cleanliness, it is best to choose an accommodation with someone you trust or with a well-known brand. Do not opt for cheap hotels, which are not known for their cleanliness. Read reviews and research well about your hotels before booking them. Avoid overcrowded hostels where it would be difficult to maintain social distancing. The lesser you interact with people, the better; at least until we are fully unlocked from the grips of COVID-19.

3. Health certificate could be made mandatory - Most states and countries would also ask you to submit health certificates before you enter. This could become a norm until the Corona virus has been completely eradicated. It will always be best to have health certificates ready in hand when you first start travelling post COVID-19.

4. Buy an international travel insurance policy - Travel insurance policy will be of use now more than ever. If in the worst-case scenario you have to undergo any medical emergencies, having an international travel insurance will cover for the expenses. There are also higher chances of flights being cancelled or delayed. Travel insurance will cover those expenses too.

5. Avoid public transport - This might come as a blow to budget travellers, but avoiding public transports is the best precaution you can take right now. Overcrowded public transportation could be hotspots for virus infections. They could also be unsanitary. Even if you are opting for metros or buses, ensure you maintain proper social distancing norms.

6. Opt for private transportation modes - Choose private vehicles like cars to get around your destination. You must know how to get an international driving license in India before you plan your trip in a private vehicle abroad. You can also opt for a trustable personal taxi service.

7. Plan road-trips - Road trips could be the best form of travel post COVID-19. Destinations to which we can drive-in will be the safest and affordable choice. You will have better control over the itinerary this way.

8. Staycations to ensure social distancing - Staycations are when you stay at a place nearby your home rather than travelling abroad. You can plan on a resort getaway or plan on a leisure activity time with your family at a place. This will reduce the number of people you meet. It will also be less expensive and more sustainable.

9. Travel maintaining social distancing and by wearing a mask - It is always best to ensure we follow the practice of maintaining social distancing and of wearing a mask even after we come out of lockdown. Ease on restrictions doesn’t necessarily mean that the virus would also be easy on us. Take the necessary precautions while you travel.

10. Last but not least, maintain hygiene and wash your hands often - COVID-19 has instilled in us a very good hygiene practice – washing your hands often and maintaining proper hygiene. It is best to keep following this practice even after corona virus has been eradicated.

P.S.: This post is in collaboration with Go Digit

Win every new challenge on Royal Enfield Himalayan BS6

Tue, 12 May 2020 07:51:42 GMT

As I sat scrolling through my old travel photographs it reminded me that I haven’t travelled nor gone for a long ride in a while. Road is my favourite home and in the last couple of months I have terribly missed thedeserted roads, meeting smiling strangers, breaks at nonchalant tea stalls and gazing at endless landscapes. The eudemonia that I feel while am on the road can never been explained in words. And I am sure many of us can relate to that.

The last three years were filled with travels winding my way through various destinations. From a 78 day long ride across Himachal, Ladakh, Kashmir and Uttarakhand to the ride across the temples of Tamil Nadu to covering the palaces and forts of Rajasthan to the rides across secluded beaches of Maharashtra to staying with the local tribes in Arunachal to exploring the art and architecture of Italy to diving in the blue waters of Maldives, my travels have been a concoction of memorable rides and unforgettable destinations and breathtaking experiences, which have all been nostalgic.

With a full-time job and the present lockdown situation that the world is facing, travel seems too farfetched for the next few months. Staying indoors without travels is definitely a challenge but virtual tours are one way to relive memories and keep the travel spirits high. Reading travel book,travelogues and blogs, watching travel videos and movies, and researching on new destinations are some of the ways the traveller in me has been readying himself for the future travel days.

During this search for travelogues and videos I happened to stumble upon a video on YouTube which I could resonate with so much. Everyone goes through difficult times and searches for that perfect dose of motivation that keeps life going. For some it comes in the form of riding their Royal Enfield. It is the therapy that gives them clarity of vision to move ahead. I instantly wanted a test ride to feel the magic. Himalayan BS6 has been launched recently and while checking it out at a showroom near you may not be possible, remember I was talking about virtual tours?

How about we indulge in one? Go on, take the tour, I’ll wait a minute.

I am impressed by the new additions in Himalayan BS6 with more focus on rider safety as hazard light feature has been introduced. There has also been a change to EFI in BS6 from Carburetor in BS4 with no drop in performance at higher altitudes.The most important change is that BS6 engine has become more environment friendly with more of ethanol in fuel. The new riding experience is going to be out of this world.

But the challenge that I am facing at present as a traveller is that I cannot travel frequently, but I am being patient enough and hope to travel for long in the near future. What excites me right now is the anticipation of being on the road on the new improved Royal Enfield Himalayan BS6 that makes all the waiting worthwhile. The lockdown may feel like a challenge right now but it’s going to end soon with me back to the road!