Chandigarh : Gardens Galore!

The cleanest city in India, Chandigarh is one lively place, but can never fail to pacify your troubled soul. Everything about Chandigarh makes me fall in love with this city which is both a city and a union territory. The roads here are spacious and clean which makes it a favourite among those who love to drive. The night life is spectacular because the city has some really cool clubs and lounges and not to forget the local markets and the hundreds of food stalls that light up this city with their hustle and bustle. The people here are also buzzing with energy, so Chandigarh is basically everything. When in Chandigarh, there are some things you ought to do and here's a guide to all the amazing places you could see in the city.

1) Sukhna Lake

This is an artificial lake but that doesn't make it any less beautiful than a natural one. You can either boat in the lake or just spend the evening sitting on the panels constructed for public. You can munch on some snacks that the local vendors are always selling there. Watching the sunset from Sukhna Lake is something you will always remember and cherish for the rest of your life.

2) Rock Garden

This is my most favourite place in Chandigarh, where I spent a small but memorable part of my childhood. This garden was constructed by Nek Chand and has the most exquisite best-out-of-waste sculptures. The garden is huge with a lot of turns and one can see thousands of handmade sculptures made solely from waste materials. The garden is adorned by little fountains and a small wishing well, too. The garden is a perfect place for photographers with so much to surprise them with. This garden is a MUST visit!














3) Chhatbir Zoo

I remember going to this Zoo on a chilly January morning and what a day it was! This Zoo lives up to its name and is not just a little habitat of ordinary animals. This zoo houses a large variety of animals and birds which would not disappoint the near-tiring journey you'd have to make if you're in the city. This zoo is also home to the white tiger so all you wildlife freaks won't be left disappointed. Do not forget to carry your camera!

4) Rose Garden

Chandigarh literally is gardens galore! One of the many gardens that add to Chandigarh's beauty is Rose Garden which is also called the Zakir Hussain rose garden. This garden had a vast expnase of flora which could refresh you from within! This garden boasts of having some 1600 varieties of roses and a lot of other flowers, sure to lift up your mood. A picturesque location, ideal for those seeking a peaceful evening.

Make sure to visit the vibrant markets of Chandigarh and have authentic Punjabi cuisine to seal the day with. 

CHILL OUT AT CHATTISHGARH

Chhattisgarh, located in the heart of our country, and the tenth largest state of India, boasts of a rich natural and cultural heritage - beautiful frothing waterfalls, exotic wildlife, exquisitely carved temples, huge dams and lush greenery. For those who want to escape from the din and bustle of crowded city life and rest in peace and tranquility, Chhattisgarh, consisting of over 43% forest cover is the perfect getaway.

CHITRAKOTE WATERFALLS:

Located in the  Bastar district on the Iravati River, in western Chhattisgarh, Chitrakote falls from a height of about 95ft and is India' broadest waterfall. Swelling to disproportionate sizes during the monsoons, it is rightly called the "niagara falls of India". On the left bank of the Chitrakoot falls, a small Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is quite popular for tourists with a taste for religion.

TIRATHGARH WATERFALLS:

Located in the Bastar district, Teerathgarh is a magnificent block type waterfall on River Kanger and plunges 91 meters in one single drop. Kutumsar Caves and Kailash Gufa are nearby attractions. Located in the confines of Kanger Ghati National Park, it showcases multiple stunning vistas, drapes, steps, twists and turns that will leave you spellbound!


TAAT PANI - THE HOT SPRING:

This hot spring which is a popular tourist attraction, is located in Balrampur district. It flows perennially throughout the year and is well known for its medicinal properties due to its high sodium content. National Thermal Power Corporation Limited is developing a geothermal power plant at TAAT PANI, described as the first geothermal power plant in India.


BHORAMDEO TEMPLE:

Located in the Bhoramdeo district of Chhattisgarh, it is a complex of four Hindu temples of brick and stone, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Many people regard it as a very sacred religious shrine. Due to its architectural grandeur, it has been nicknamed "Khajurao of Chhattisgarh".


JASHPUR:

The northern part of the district has hilly terrain that makes for an uplifting long drive. Excite your senses and sit back and relax in the serenity of nature as you drive through the upper ghat and Loroghat. A must visit for any nature lover!


HASDEO BANGO DAM:

It is Chhattisgarh's largest and longest dam whose expansive catchment area makes it a multipurpose storage reservoir. It's lush greenery, freshwater lake and picturesque view render it the perfect picnic spot for travelers.


MAITRI BAGH:

Literally meaning "garden of friendship", Maitri Bagh was established by the Bhilai Steel Plant to commemorate friendship ties between India and Russia. It is the biggest zoo of Chhattisgarh, containing many beautifully tended gardens and is a popular picnic spot.

Don't think that it is not worth visiting places that are not frequented by tourists. Being a true traveler means exploring the unexplored, venturing into the unknown and making roads where they don't exist. Don't walk behind others, let the world follow your footprints. Just travel!

Some Tea and Tripping in Munnar

Munnar is a hill station in Kerala, which is known for its exquisite tea and exotic locations. Be it the mighty waterfalls or the rich tea estates, Munnar has something magnificent to offer to everyone. The biodiversity parks in Munnar are also a great getaway, if one enjoys tranquility. Munnar has a long list of tourist attractions, though its Natural beauty is what makes it stand apart from the rest of the hill stations. The best time to go to Munnar is between November and January end. The weather is the best there, during this time. There are places you must visit and things you must do, when in Munnar. Here's a travel guide for the traveler in you!

Attukal Waterfalls

This place is ideal for trekkers and people who truly admire nature and seek tranquility in Nature. These waterfalls make for a picturesque scene and one can't help being left mesmerized by the beauty and grandeur of this miracle of Nature. The waterfall glistens and can be seen from a long distance as well. The slopes and terrains that surround the waterfall are ideal for hiking, so one can indulge in adventure here. You'll be left speechless at the sheer charm of this waterfall and you would want that awesome feeling to persist!

Eravikulam National Park

This park has bountiful greenery which is hard to find in majority of cities in India. It is also home to rare Nilgiri Tahr, the endangered animal, which can be found here exclusively. Only the Rajamalai region is accessible to the tourists because the rest of the region is basically a thick, dense forest. The park provides spectacular views of the tea estates and green pastures, which will have calming effect on your mind. Do not forget to take your camera with you because you would want to capture these beautiful moments forever.

Anamudi Peak

Located inside the Eravikulam Park is the Anamudi Peak which is the highest peak of South India. Anamudi means 'elephant's head' and the mountain looks like an elephant's head, hence the name. Tourists are restricted from climbing the peak but the view can be enjoyed from the park itself. The mountain looks absolutely majestic, standing proud and tall and makes for a wonderful landscape for photographers.

Kurinjimala Sanctuary

Though, Munnar is already blessed with numerous varieties of flora and fauna but the Neelkurinji flower, adds to the charm of the town. This flower blooms once in several years and draws huge crowds from all over the world to Munnar. There has, however, been a depletion in the flower beds because of urbanisation, but these flowers can be found at the Kurinjimala Sanctuaryin Kottakamboor and Vattavada villages in Devakulam, Munnar. These flowers are worth having a look at, because they bloom once in years!

It would be a shame if you don't go to Saravana Bhavan when in Kerala. You will find the Saravna Bhavan on your way to Munnar. You must stop there for a meal and let your taste buds rejoice! Have some authentic seafood with tapioca and you'll be done for the day! Come back with some authentic tea and homemade chocolates to relish later.

THE BEST PART OF TRAVEL

Hey are you a lazy bug or do you love traveling? Care for some adventure, want to spice up your life? Then hurry, pack your backpack, take along your camera and set off in the pursuit of some ecstasy. Well, I just love traveling and I wou like to share my opinion regarding the best part of traveling.

ANTICIPATING THE TRIP:
     Excitement is inevitable in man. And I am no exception. The moment a trip is planned, the tickets done and hotels booked, I begin feeling restless. From that same day onwards, I start ticking off days on the calendar. Time seems to be moving at a snail's pace! And my restless reaches its night on the night before the trip - I just keep fidgeting in bed, waiting for the first Rays of the sun to signal the arrival of the D-day at last!

THE JOURNEY ITSELF:

       I have traveled by train, bus, car and flight too and each of these conveyances has its own charm! Believe it or not, one of my best experiences was a journey to Ooty from Banglore by night bus. The way the bus maneuvered through the winding roads cut around steep slopes, pausing every now and then to peer in the darkness, danger pulsating at every bend, was indeed a terrific experience. And on the flight, I love to observe the varied shapes of cloud racing across the blue sky like a flock of fluffy sheep. The Indian railways snaking through countryside tracks like a long scarlet caterpillar and the sumptuous meals served by uniformed waiters is indeed a treat!

RELAX AND ENJOY:

          Now that you are away from your workplace and your daily chores, this is a forced relaxation for your mind and body. Break away from that hectic monotonous schedule and enjoy yourself. Stretch yourself and tan your physique at the beach, sipping coconut water or exotic mocktails. Or, sit  back in your hotel room and simply enjoy the picturesque surroundings, if you are at a hill station. Or, if it's still higher up, go skiing, mountain trekking or even camping down the countryside. Just switch off your phones, tabs and detach yourself from the outside world. Spend quality time with your family, heal your body and mind and rejuvenate your senses. Hey, you can always afford this small luxury!

FOOD, FOOD AND MORE FOOD...

        The most fascinating part of traveling new places is tingling your tastebuds to all the yummy cuisines of different parts of the world. Take for instance in India itself the style of cooking and the various dishes of the north, south, east and west vary in radically different ways. Up north in Delhi or Punjab treat yourself to rich shimmering gravies, curried or roasted chicken, Chole-bhature, Korma, Biriyani, Halwas, and lassi. In the Northeastern region, particularly in Assam, Tibet and Mehalaya stuff yourself with Momos, Thupka and Chowmein. Deep down south enjoy mouthwatering Sambar, Rasam, Idli, Dosai, Vada and Uttapam with a tinge of tamarind and chilly! And Mumbai is eternally famous for it's Bhelpuri and Pavbhaji! So, what are you waiting for? Go and treat yourself. But then, don't overeat or you will fall sick.

SIGHTSEEING:

        I just love visiting new places, be it just a garden or water park or lake or some age old monument like Red Fort or Taj Mahal or Mysore Palace. Go to the major places of tourist interest in whichever area you are visiting. Look up about the local history and culture and do some prior research about the place you will be visiting. And of course don't forget to take selfies and photographs at the site. Back home you can create a photo collage and hang it in your study.

MEETING NEW PEOPLE:
    Wherever you go, there's every chance to strike up a close acquaintance with someone who may become your friend for life. Take the first step, mix with the locals and get an idea about their culture and lifestyle. It is really great meeting up with new people, adding to the list of your friends. After all the world today is a global village!

FINDING YOURSELF:

         For me, this is the most important aspect of travel, especially when you are traveling solo. You get to spend some 'alone' time, relax and be at ease with yourself. And through this process, you get to know yourself even better, gaining an insight into your inherent interests, likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses. Take it easy, sit back and enjoy your trip to the fullest!

        I guess you can identify with what I have written here as these are my principal feelings whenever I plan a trip. And do make sure the trip is not too hectic. Plan out in such a way that you return back to work in a refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated frame of mind.


(Excerpts from the memoirs of a true traveler)
Signing off,
Happy Traveling!✈️

Of Lakes and Mountains : Nainital

India is home to some mesmerizing hill stations and all of them stand at par with each other. One such splendid hill station is Nainital - home to seven beautiful lakes to blow your mind away. Nainital is a very popular holiday spot for not only Indians but foreigners who come to India to enjoy and unwind, as well. If you are fond of mountains and a self-proclaimed water baby, then this is the place for you. Where else would you find seven beautifully lakes, waiting to be explored?

Nainital Lake

This is the most visited place in the hill station and is always bustling with people at all times of the day. One can walk down from one side of the lake to another and even stop for coffee at a lot of new cafes that have cropped up here. The roads have hundreds of shops for avid shoppers, but the Tibetan market that awaits you at the other end of the lake is bigger and better. If you want enjoy boating, then the Naini lake could equal paradise for you because it is vast and is surrounded by lush green mountains. The place looks straight out of a painting.

On reaching the market, you can easily spot Naina Devi Temple which is visited by devotees regularly. One can even feed fishes from the temple since it is located right on the lakeside. After you are done feeding the fishes and offering prayers, you can shop hours and then stop to have some legendary steaming hot momos at Sonam's, a street-side eatery, dedicated to delicious Chinese food.

You can also come back in the evening and just sit by the lake, appreciating Nature and all that it has to offer. You'll see a million lights twinkling on the mountains and you would definitely want the moment to just freeze.

Sattal

This another lake which is pretty secluded but is a camper's delight. You can even go for some kayaking in this lake. A lot of adventure seekers come here and indulge in some recreational activity. You can even plan and set up your own barbecue here, so that when you're tired for the day after a long swim, you have fresh steaming food. Taking your own inflatable boat should also be a great idea. A lot of campsites are already set up, so you can easily get a fun and action filled package at a pretty reasonable rate. Everything, in the lap of Nature!

Naukuchiatal

This is another of the seven lakes of Nainital and is again not as commercialized as Naini lake. One can, though, enjoy some adventurous activities which is sure to give them a huge adrenaline rush. Paragliding is one such activity that you can indulge in, at Naukuchiatal. One can also go visit the famous Hanuman Temple which isn't very far from the lake or just spend a day bird watching or doing some wildlife photography in nearby villages.

MAGNIFICENT MYSORE

Located in Karnataka, Mysore is one of South India's most coveted tourist destinations. Go deep down South and enjoy the blend of the Hindu, Islamic, Rajput and Gothic culture. Lose yourself in the grandeur of the age old Mysore Palace, relax in the lap of nature's finery at the mesmerizing Brindaban Gardens and chill out at the Karanji Lake. And many more delightful places to visit, tingle your tastebuds to the spicy southern cuisine and drape yourself in elegant silks and kanjeevarams. Off you go!!!


The Mysore Palace

          Perhaps the most coveted destination of Mysore, located at the heart of the city, the Mysore Palace was the former abode of the ruling Wodeyar Dynasty. An excellent symphony of Dravidian, Indo-Saracenic, Oriental and Roman architectural styles, it boasts of the grandeur of a bygone era and is one of the greatest tourist attractions. The Maharaja's palace is painstakingly designed of pink marble and grey granite and is a three storeyed building. Towering above it is the 145ft high tower of five storeyes whose domes are gilded in gold.  There are seven canons marshaled in front of the palace, each marking a day of the Dussehra festivities. There are twelve temples inside the premises, showcasing varied architectural patterns. A must visit for any enthusiastic traveler!

The Karanji Lake

        Originally a part of the Mysore Zoo, the Karanji Lake is a vast water body with rippling fluids enhancing its natural beauty. It is surrounded by lush greenery, a beautiful garden and India's largest walk-through aviary. You will have the time of your life watching birds of brilliant hues twittering in the wilderness. And don't forget to visit the Butterfly Park where a plethora of tiny winged beauties and brilliant blossoms await to steal your attention.

Brindaban Gardens

         Adjoining the massive Krishnagovind Sagar Dam is the mesmerizing Brindaban Gardens, justly  famous all over the world for its symmetric design and grand layout. One of the most well known terrace gardens of India, it is a horticultural pride of the nation. Modeled on the design of the Shalimar Bagh of Kashmir by Sir Mirza Ismail, the garden is laid out over three terraces, ending in a horseshoe shape. It's musical fountain is a delight for one and all - an unforgettable sight! The whole garden when illuminated is a dazzling sight to behold!

Chamundeswari Temple 

       Located atop the Chamundi Hills, about 13 kilometers away from the city of Mysore, the temple is over 1000 years old. Built in the structure of a quadrangle, the temple boasts of Dravidian architectural pattern. Atop the Shikhara, the entrance to the tower, there are seven kalashas of pure gold! And standing at the edge of the Chamundi Hills, you can afford a spectacular view of the city of Mysore, sprawled out with palatial grandeur in miniature. The temple is considered the city's most sacred shrine as the deity is considered Mysore's principal deity. If you are not an atheist, a trip to Mysore without a visit to Chamundeswari is incomplete. But mind it, you have to climb one thousand steps to make it to the top!

Incredible Monasteries of Dharamshala!

Dharamshala is a gorgeous little city in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, which is famous worldwide for it's lush green mountains and picturesque locations. A large number of Tibetans constitute the population of this city, which only makes it natural that the city is full of breathtaking monastery in quaint corners. These monasteries are major tourist attractions and there's no reason why they shouldn't be. These monasteries are peaceful yet, they make for a bustling tourist destination. Though, one can't really rate them in terms of prettiness, but here are some exceptionally alluring monasteries of Dharamshala.

1) Norbulingka Monastery

This monastery is literally situated in the middle of a pond and the glistening green water just adds to the appeal of this one. More than a monastery, it is a complex which comprises of lush green gardens with little temples, a big temple, a doll museum which exhibits tibetan artistry and a nice cafe where one can taste lip smacking Tibetan delicacies. This institute was made to preserve Tibetan culture and literature which is evident through the extensive man-made gardens and sculptures. One must not miss the opportunity to give this gorgeous institute a visit.

2) Tsuglagkhang Monastery

This complex is actually the residence of The Dalai Lama in India and is open for tourists during the day. It is surrounded by thick forests and is simple to look at. Though, on entering the monastery, one is sure to get enchanted by the magnificent paintings and decorations of the main temple. A lot of Tibetan festivals are held in the complex and one can participate in them if one wishes to. This monastery is also the biggest meditation complex and people from all over the world come here to attain peace of mind. The most surprising part is that it is the simplicity of this place that blows one away.















3) Namgyal Monastery

This monastery was founded by the third Dalai Lama hinself and therefore is considered to be one of the most important Buddhist holy places among others. Special prayers for peace and harmony for Tibet and its government are offered here by monks who were relocated from Tibet to Dharamshala after the Tibetan uprising. The monastery houses 200 monks and the tranquility of this place really gets to you. Praying wheels and a million lit lamps can be spotted here along with the monks who are engaged in daily tasks. The murals and paintings inside the temple depict Buddha's many avatars and his life.

4) Gyuto Monastery

Loacted in Sidhbari, this monastery is the temporary residence of the Karmapa. This area is comparatively quiter and more tranquil than the rest of Dharamshala. The complex of this monastery is huge, overlooks the Dhauladhars and one can find monks meditating here. You can even chat with some of them, like I did, during my visit. One can sit inside the main temple for hours which is much less crowded than the other monasteries which are bustling with tourists. An enormous gold Buddha sculpture sits poised in the monastery with several other smaller ones. Intricate paintings and Tibetan flags adorn this monastery and one can also visit the Naam Art Gallery afterwards or just stay in the village for a calm evening.

JUNGLE SAFARI

Hi! Are u an animal or bird or even nature lover? If yes, why don't you plan a trip to the zoo right away? Take the entire family along, lots of yummy goodies in a picnic bag and of course your camera for some memorable moments to capture forever. And if you have a kid at home, that's the icing on the cake!
       Watch the lion roar at you with undisguised ferocity, the orangutan mimicking your movements, or the birds chirping with excitement in the aviary, the hippopotamuses lazily snoozing in the muddy puddles, snakes slithering in the dark reptile house, owls hooting eerily in the nocturnal zoo, crocodiles lounging in the sun, shedding false tears... And you could even go for an elephant ride if u are lucky enough. All this does merit a trip to the zoo.
        From north to south, India is the homeland to a diverse species of animals and birds that offer a rich natural heritage to our nation. And here's a list of some of the best zoos of India which you would love to visit.

ARIGNAR ANNA ZOOLOGICAL PARK (Vandalur Zoo), Chennai, Tamil Nadu

         One of the most coveted destinations of Chennai, the Vandalur Zoo (as it is popularly known) is located at Vandalur, a suburb in the southwestern part of Chennai, about 31kilometres from the state capital. Founded in 1855 as the Madras Zoo, it is the first public zoo and the largest zoological garden in India sprawled over an area of 1490 acres. It houses 1500 wild animals- over 170 species of exotic fauna in over 81 enclosures. The zoo is especially well known for the rare Lion-tailed Macaque, found only in the Western Ghats and the White Tiger. Besides, the zoo offers Lion Safari ( a short drive through the natural habitat of the lions) as well as an Elephant Safari. So, grab your chance to become one of the 3000 visitors who come to the zoo every day!



NANDANKANAN ZOOLOGICAL PARK, Bhubaneswar, Odisha

          This is probably one of the best zoos you could ever hope to visit (speaking from personal experience). Located in the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, the capital city of the state of Odisha, within the environs of the Chandaka forest, NANDANKANAN, literally meaning, the abode of the Gods, is world famous for its white tigers and orangutan. It was established in the year 1963 and boasts of more than 1580 animals housed in 101 enclosures and 202 sub-enclosures. It became the first zoo in India to join the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) in 2009. Nandankanan is the only zoo in the country credited with having Patas Monkey, Eastern Rosella (Platypus) and Open-billed Stork. Besides two other zoos in India, Nandankanan is home to Orangutan, Indian Pangolin, Spotted Munia, and Burmese Python. It is the host zoo for white Tigers and offers a unique Tiger Safari trip to visitors since 1991. You can also enjoy Toy Train Ride, Boating and Ropeway at the zoo. Don't miss the chance to visit this paradise on earth. (Monday closed).


NATIONAL ZOOLOGICAL PARK, Delhi

           Popularly known as the Chidiya Ghar, the National Zoological Park was established in 1959 and is spread over an area of 176 acres. The zoo is home to 1350 animals and over 150 species of birds. Among the well known species found here are gibbon, white buck, white tiger and the Manipur antlered-deer. Situated close to the Old Fort at Delhi, one of the principal attractions of this zoo is the 16th century citadel and a picturesque green island. One of the most interesting places to visit, especially for children and youngsters. The zoo also has an in-house library, cafeteria and mobile vans for the convenience of visitors. A trip to Delhi woul never be complete without a visit to the zoo.  Trust me! (Friday closed)


NEHRU ZOOLOGICAL PARK, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

          Also called the Hyderabad Zoo, it is located near the Mir Alam Tank in Andhra Pradesh and is one of the best zoos in the country. Spanning an area of over 300 acres, it houses over 250 species of fauna, popular among which are the Bengal Tiger, Indian Rhino, Indian Elephant, Python, Panther, Himalayan Black Bear and the Asiatic Lion. Added attractions include the Lion Safari, Tiger Safari, Bear Safari and Bison Safari, Natural History Museum, Butterfly Park, Aquarium, Children's Park, Jurassic Park and Toy Train. Besides, you can enjoy boating activities organized by the Tourism department at the Mir Alam Tank. (Monday closed)


ALIPORE ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS, Kolkata, West Bengal

           Also called the Alipore Zoo or Calcutta Zoo, it is India's oldest formally stated zoological park and one of the best gateways of West Bengal. Covering an area of only 50 acres of land, the zoo is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, African Lion, Panthers, Giraffes, the One-Horned Rhinos, Hippopotamus and a variety of migratory birds like touracos, hornbills, golden pheasants and numerous large flightless  birds like ostrich, emu and cassowary. One of its prime attractions is the glass walled enclosure for Tigers and a new aviary that boasts of spoonbills, pelicans and storks. The Calcutta Aquarium is just across the street and is managed by the zoo authorities. (Thursday closed)