tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79108505213219057352024-03-14T17:22:22.085+05:30Nupur GoyalThe World from my Eyes...goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-18471230093733051792020-05-31T18:20:00.000+05:302020-05-31T23:18:53.305+05:30Moscow, the heart of Russia<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVW3PwlsoTjZp8WZTCUuZhjy7ZZTRl9r3ENr-bYGOQQ1O_L9i5FkZ4IJMH55eZEftIBqE7l7QHnFlspvd5DzmBIcKhqboEVQ7tFGSTZsly8ZTpljIdk1b7Ho3DwKr7IHgPQ6Lm5Vtcg8/s1600/Moscow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1280" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVW3PwlsoTjZp8WZTCUuZhjy7ZZTRl9r3ENr-bYGOQQ1O_L9i5FkZ4IJMH55eZEftIBqE7l7QHnFlspvd5DzmBIcKhqboEVQ7tFGSTZsly8ZTpljIdk1b7Ho3DwKr7IHgPQ6Lm5Vtcg8/s640/Moscow.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Privet,
Moscow!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Whether you were drawn here by
the city’s chaotic political history, its rich cultural heritage, its
breathtaking performing arts or just the need of some good vodka, Moscow will
amaze you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">If Saint Petersburg is Russia’s
“window on Europe,” Moscow is the Russia’s heart. It is vibrant, upbeat and an
iconic city. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">A strange combination of
traditional Russian architecture with new modernized buzz, Moscow is an
adventure waiting to happen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Here
are some of the top attractions that you should check out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Red
Square<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6207jYjo9cJBymi8SIh40yiGhuRop8iviHRgF8Klef9lr2mjirtOuEqpaZDy-GeAT8CluMDyy_fpdos8By2iXAHwo0txs3jiz5aOYjfQsuLwrbhyxVscQuC6osyHZDr9HbLSfXDgcXI/s1600/Red+Square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="1280" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6207jYjo9cJBymi8SIh40yiGhuRop8iviHRgF8Klef9lr2mjirtOuEqpaZDy-GeAT8CluMDyy_fpdos8By2iXAHwo0txs3jiz5aOYjfQsuLwrbhyxVscQuC6osyHZDr9HbLSfXDgcXI/s640/Red+Square.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Square in Moscow</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Red Square is the Heart &
soul of Moscow. The first place almost everyone heads to once in Moscow is the
Red Square.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Almost 8 lakh square feet, it
lies east of the Kremlin and north of Moskva River. The State Historical Museum
lies at the northern end of the Red Square. At the Square’s southern end,
stands the nine-towered Cathedral of St. Basil the Blessed. Lenin’s tomb is on
the west and GUM, the Premoum departmental Store is on the east. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Red Square has been the scene
for demonstrations, executions, riots, parades and speeches. Even today the military parades are held at Red Square on
May Day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Red Square was added to
UNESCO’s World heritage List in 1990. The streets around Red Square are a
good start for you to stroll and have them as background for your photos.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The
most famous landmark in Moscow and a must visit place!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station: Ohotnii
Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshad Revolutsii<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">St. Basil’s Cathedral<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizdOtqxb7vr2iM3DMmEeLsX-JB9nv51i6-Pi1THe_d20LfLvlni-akbTs0fD2QrXVbkI9kkSCwULY1z63RI1EgzWVJKor_PA4uQ0hxhTeQ7QRCgH0Y-h2YOPCOXbET4dBAtGiBugTPmtE/s1600/St.+Basil.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="St. Basil's Cathedral" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizdOtqxb7vr2iM3DMmEeLsX-JB9nv51i6-Pi1THe_d20LfLvlni-akbTs0fD2QrXVbkI9kkSCwULY1z63RI1EgzWVJKor_PA4uQ0hxhTeQ7QRCgH0Y-h2YOPCOXbET4dBAtGiBugTPmtE/s640/St.+Basil.jpg" title="St. Basil's Cathedral" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Basil's Cathedral</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Everyone has seen the picture
of the church with the colourful onion shaped dome. Clearly, the most famous
landmark of Russia, you can spot it the moment you start walking inside the Red
Square.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">St. Basil’s Cathedral was build
in 1561 to celebrate Ivan the Terrible crucial defeat of the Khan of Kazan, a
victory that secured Moscow’s position as the region dominant city.<o:p></o:p></span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivAgvcAinNpjfWF5h97nUeZBO5CF8ZBU3CAsRoK9xPxNu8sCcIngCW-oFQ_vCubSrBymN1QE8VGKn3tMZKZppB38d9XyolIGU3BTdtpoLxWg3FguKtpCNSL2lFAWW4I4QzRS5XLCS5LWk/s1600/St.+Basil%2527s+Cathedral.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivAgvcAinNpjfWF5h97nUeZBO5CF8ZBU3CAsRoK9xPxNu8sCcIngCW-oFQ_vCubSrBymN1QE8VGKn3tMZKZppB38d9XyolIGU3BTdtpoLxWg3FguKtpCNSL2lFAWW4I4QzRS5XLCS5LWk/s640/St.+Basil%2527s+Cathedral.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The story goes that the eyes of
the architect who commissioned the cathedral were cut out, so that he cannot
make another beautiful cathedral like this one.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The cathedral is far more
beautiful from the outside than from the inside. If you still want to have a
look, there is a ticket booth right next to the entry gate of the Cathedral.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Opening
Hours:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">June-August:
10:00 to 18:00 <br>
November - April: 11:00 to 17:00<br>
May, September, October: 11:00 to 18:00<br>
First Wednesday of the month – day off<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Entry
Price: 700 RUB<br>
Entry Price with audioguide: 1200 RUB<br><br>
</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Website: </span><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="https://en.shm.ru/museum/hvb/">https://en.shm.ru/museum/hvb/</a></span><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station: Ohotnii
Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshad Revolutsii<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">GUM Departmental Store<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXUkuXgR1-du-ZVsjlP7xccPbqo9W0pL6c9O_2inIgQ3kRguZTXJJc5KQ1j7qNSE-N9s3WdchBCzjAycdoEoc88rzTLXf6l-tEnVaV9Dzb9WcIvaGC-f7gV7txVPWUtFa0LZ6uz2gdH0/s1600/GUM.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="GUM Departmental Store" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXUkuXgR1-du-ZVsjlP7xccPbqo9W0pL6c9O_2inIgQ3kRguZTXJJc5KQ1j7qNSE-N9s3WdchBCzjAycdoEoc88rzTLXf6l-tEnVaV9Dzb9WcIvaGC-f7gV7txVPWUtFa0LZ6uz2gdH0/s640/GUM.jpg" title="GUM" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GUM</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Look towards the stunning
building on the left hand side of the St. Basil’s Cathedral. It’s the GUM
Departmental Store (I am sure it is the most beautiful & the most famous
departmental store in the entire country). Pronounced as “Goom” the 19</span><sup style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">
century building was built to replace the old trading area that once stood
opposite the Kremlin.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">GUM is a departmental store
which today houses hundreds of premium stores, boutiques, cafes and restaurants
and is one of the prominent landmarks of Moscow. Even if shopping you not on
your cards, do drop by GUM to witness the glass roof arcade and the high street
shops.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station: Ohotnii
Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshad Revolutsii<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">State Historical Museum<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Km7UGNb0FW6wid5UKhYiGO_tWsm6Hg5MG3UlpPJlLeTBzGHqfwP-lDGGQJPAc9nLKMf2CX8YLGCjI0Q1F1SZ-Nnn8G3QbuXue_1YAJpdy7TxT-rp44Gi0HVgYjpiFQMV7mZbFJXsYU4/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="786" data-original-width="1179" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Km7UGNb0FW6wid5UKhYiGO_tWsm6Hg5MG3UlpPJlLeTBzGHqfwP-lDGGQJPAc9nLKMf2CX8YLGCjI0Q1F1SZ-Nnn8G3QbuXue_1YAJpdy7TxT-rp44Gi0HVgYjpiFQMV7mZbFJXsYU4/w640-h426/State+Historical+Museum.jpg" width="640"></a></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">State
Historical Museum is the largest museum of Russia containing over 4.5 million
items collected over 100 years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The
State Historical Museum (built 1875-83) stands at the northern end of the Red
Square.<o:p></o:p></span><br>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Opening
Hours:</span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Mon,
Wed, Thur, Sun: 10:00 to 18:00<br>
Fri, Sat: 10:00 – 21:00<br>
Tue: Closed<br>
Admission Fees: Ruble 1100<br><br>
</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Website: </span><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="https://en.shm.ru/museum/hvb/">https://en.shm.ru/museum/hvb/</a></span><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station: Ohotnii
Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshad Revolutsii<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lenin’s Mausoleum<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The body of the Russian
dictator, <b>Vladimir Lenin</b> has been on
display at the Red Square for over 90 years. One of the walls of the Kremlin
makes an imposing backdrop to the mausoleum of the leader of the communist
movement.<o:p></o:p></span><br>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">During
our visit to Moscow, due to the preparation of the Victory Day the Mausoleum
was cordoned off. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Please
note that bags and camera are not allowed inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Opening
Hours:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Tue,
Wed, Thur, Sat, Sun: 10:00 to 13:00<br>
Mon, Fri: Closed <br>
Admission Fees: Free<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station: Ohotnii
Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshad Revolutsii<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Moscow’s Kremlin<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzDjVpreGYOs48V8WNqLWBjGWhWuFxugcEy6udyi-UizGjKmGR68O1xPeNYxSM1bzyRkbF5WxOpwLa5shEsysCct48ZLRzvZ34SJdKCLxa8cm_JxYHg7dG1jiycsugjDZWdGBqwJuO4o/s1600/Kremlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzDjVpreGYOs48V8WNqLWBjGWhWuFxugcEy6udyi-UizGjKmGR68O1xPeNYxSM1bzyRkbF5WxOpwLa5shEsysCct48ZLRzvZ34SJdKCLxa8cm_JxYHg7dG1jiycsugjDZWdGBqwJuO4o/s640/Kremlin.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kremlin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">There are many reasons why
Kremlin is worth a visit. The 36.4 hectare Kremlin has been included in the
UNESCO World Heritage List and its history can be divided into three periods:
the wooden Kremlin (13</span><sup style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"> century), the Italian Renaissance Kremlin
and the modern Kremlin.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Kremlin lies in the heart of the
city of Moscow and today houses the political head quarter of the Earth’s
largest nation. Within the world famous walls of Kremlin lies a collection of
buildings or various architectural styles, ranging from ancient Russian style
to modern buildings. While much of it is not accessible to the general public
being part of the government and President estate, the buildings open to the
public forms a treasure of its own.<o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NAGHa7wsAmS4SAvsdXli-yO13FavWfYEo0Sb_oNuQ2Tz7ImQ745kBgvL8VCsInkM3mgIijnxbGhK6EEixbmsSRKra-pmOGQgXmILu32uySzCaDTC8ae2hpD7rDHP8nj8gKoAK-i1APg/s1600/Kremlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="758" data-original-width="1280" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NAGHa7wsAmS4SAvsdXli-yO13FavWfYEo0Sb_oNuQ2Tz7ImQ745kBgvL8VCsInkM3mgIijnxbGhK6EEixbmsSRKra-pmOGQgXmILu32uySzCaDTC8ae2hpD7rDHP8nj8gKoAK-i1APg/s640/Kremlin.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">You will need a ticket to enter
the Kremlin and are advised to leave any large bags in the cloak room located
near the ticket office. A “Kremlin territory” ticket gets you inside the
cathedrals but in order to visit the Kremlin Armoury you need to buy a separate
ticket (very expensive) before you enter the Kremlin.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ80WGr7KXYfx15mUhNNWTMsav1LHn3RX07vP5TiCBQlVvjaI6tEyzPPSHLCS5RtJ99MWZbZ4zieF7_YkHeuaRHPpy1CUYxp4tkaUcgJzfYSjMOVup5mLBYCbg8crI4_KXFe7DNUvlCPc/s1600/Inside+Kremlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="835" data-original-width="1280" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ80WGr7KXYfx15mUhNNWTMsav1LHn3RX07vP5TiCBQlVvjaI6tEyzPPSHLCS5RtJ99MWZbZ4zieF7_YkHeuaRHPpy1CUYxp4tkaUcgJzfYSjMOVup5mLBYCbg8crI4_KXFe7DNUvlCPc/s640/Inside+Kremlin.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">So how
big is the Kremlin?</span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Total
Area – 27.7 Hectare<br>
Wall’s Length – 2,500 metre<br>
Wall’s Height – 5-19 metre<br>
No. of Towers – 20<br>
Tower’s Height – Upto 80 metre<br>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br>
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Tsar Bell (200 Tons)<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlAWaDM7jbLXxZUeGEmd0vrfNMVrBfUd7adoCn3D8WHsrKyNbMcdE-UXhgaE4z5w2h9yLARG_lnDlYdBhqGasLbmnvL4OlOPxAGgx8I3Hyqis3v5Vl40Y_oB5uOgBcogGcBf3NseNenU/s1600/Tsar+Bell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="853" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlAWaDM7jbLXxZUeGEmd0vrfNMVrBfUd7adoCn3D8WHsrKyNbMcdE-UXhgaE4z5w2h9yLARG_lnDlYdBhqGasLbmnvL4OlOPxAGgx8I3Hyqis3v5Vl40Y_oB5uOgBcogGcBf3NseNenU/s640/Tsar+Bell.jpg" width="426"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tsar Bell</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">It was in the 18</span><sup style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">
century that the Russian decided to cast the biggest bell in the world – the
tsar of the bells. The weight of this bell is 200 tons (shocking) and is 6.24
metre in height.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">It would be no exaggeration to
say that if this bell rang, the whole of Moscow would hear it. However it was
never heard. This bell has never been rung. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">It is said that there was a
massive fire in the Kremlin in 1737. The Muscovites feared that the bell might
melt in the fire and rushed to the sites and poured cold water on the bell. The
sudden change in the temperature caused a big slab to split off the bell. Since
the bell was broken, it was never lifted to a bell tower. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The bell rests on a pedestal at
the foot of the Ivan the Great Bell Tower inside the Kremlin in Moscow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The yellow building behind the
bell today houses various offices of the Russian Presidential Administration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Tsar Cannon (40 tons)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qj8lcKmEz5_9YHYHTs1hlWBsWGBrk8mGtGMiIDm4vKuA9tUuV_-VZaSTvMxInpWAPst7CWPnvXyHGe7aX-_pT3fCS2rpR8vjdg6JKVNmIdb_JZWprLgkAotg8JhMNZfu8-mWGt3kbUk/s1600/Tsar+Canon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qj8lcKmEz5_9YHYHTs1hlWBsWGBrk8mGtGMiIDm4vKuA9tUuV_-VZaSTvMxInpWAPst7CWPnvXyHGe7aX-_pT3fCS2rpR8vjdg6JKVNmIdb_JZWprLgkAotg8JhMNZfu8-mWGt3kbUk/s640/Tsar+Canon.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">The Kremlin also boasts the
biggest cannon in the world which weighs 40 tons and is almost 5 metre long. The
cannon were cast in bronze in 1586 and is decorated with various inscriptions,
and ornaments. It is located near the Kremlin armoury facing the Kremlin
Senate.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">According to the legend, the
cannon have never actually been fired. The cast balls placed near the cannon
are for decorative purpose only and weighs one ton each. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br></div>
</div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Cathedral of the Assumption<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDZQlZY7HTq37PcWBvZiSi3VhMM97mpdk3MRJvSffEpthKDwckTuOLxkexX6_ZAaiu_9tpB5iPbqGbEaoPqqGgzv2y9DY_JGlAZP__36eaTO6zyFEXfsoTYLn1fu0zxPV8YMlGP22zzI/s1600/Cathedral+of+the+Assumption.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDZQlZY7HTq37PcWBvZiSi3VhMM97mpdk3MRJvSffEpthKDwckTuOLxkexX6_ZAaiu_9tpB5iPbqGbEaoPqqGgzv2y9DY_JGlAZP__36eaTO6zyFEXfsoTYLn1fu0zxPV8YMlGP22zzI/s640/Cathedral+of+the+Assumption.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathederal of Assumption</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">The Cathedral of the Assumption
is the oldest and the biggest church of all the Kremlin churches and was built
in 1475 by Italian architect Aristotle Fiorovanti. It’s simple and is crowned
by five golden domes. The Orthodox metropolitans and patriarchs of the 14</span><sup style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">
and the 18</span><sup style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"> century are buried here.</span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Cathedral of the Annunciation<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2126O38U6-90u9WtxB2MzgZ5GzGNuRdhtoXF-2FixeZjdH1WnRUruUIY4FI6xt-ZYm_9mqThtGIIyzfxG89krUeLRa0PzrVj-ZLr1V6Cgxh3AOrXfliiqWPoptYCN1yTLmyPp0WC2hwY/s1600/Court+in+Kremlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="817" data-original-width="1280" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2126O38U6-90u9WtxB2MzgZ5GzGNuRdhtoXF-2FixeZjdH1WnRUruUIY4FI6xt-ZYm_9mqThtGIIyzfxG89krUeLRa0PzrVj-ZLr1V6Cgxh3AOrXfliiqWPoptYCN1yTLmyPp0WC2hwY/s640/Court+in+Kremlin.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">The Cathedral of the
Annunciation was built by Pskov Architects in 1484-89 and was designed as the
main church for Russian Tsars and their families. In this Cathedral, Russian
Tsars were married and baptized. Its chapels are topped with golden roofs and
domes.</span></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Dormition Cathedral <o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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</div>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Dormition
Cathedral was the key cathedral of Russia and it is at this cathedral where all
the emperors of the Romanov Dynasty were coroneted.</span></div>
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<br></div>
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<b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Cathedral
of the Archangel Michael</b><br>
<b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br></b>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis6HUPFkF0sq-Ksi3wsom9atso80LF-ZVvqeiwvr1-wP0ogVvPOXYJvqkWVxVie14YHhnIjCy4jytrf02x2A3KgIxLy-_Wc58V9aXOhkJRNfbUMSXUk1kxsjEcGFuP4X1HEwmNBsFXq9U/s1600/Kremlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis6HUPFkF0sq-Ksi3wsom9atso80LF-ZVvqeiwvr1-wP0ogVvPOXYJvqkWVxVie14YHhnIjCy4jytrf02x2A3KgIxLy-_Wc58V9aXOhkJRNfbUMSXUk1kxsjEcGFuP4X1HEwmNBsFXq9U/s640/Kremlin.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">This
Cathedral is dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel was rebuilt in 1505-08 an
dis the place where the Prince of Moscow is buried.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Opening
Hours:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Museum
opening Hours: 10:00 to 17:00<br>
Day off: Thursday<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Visiting fees:<br>
</span></i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Armoury:
1000 Rubles<br>
Architectural ensemble of Cathedral Square: 700 Rubles<br>
Museum in the Bell Tower: 350 Rubles<br>
<i><br>
Nearest Metro Station: Ohotnii Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshad Revolutsii<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Website: </span><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="https://www.kreml.ru/">https://www.kreml.ru/</a></span><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Cathedral of Christ
the Saviour<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimk9rf1GyY0BAgbiFU0nxcJzpZnXmizERehXWqHHPGZkB9MCwWEyx8uh6Cefgn6C0OvSmpOvHPPgkYL84TmlxBg54VVVFr47H7GGPrB-MRU_LZsMjORJufaE_nrnWja6qR4tf6Nv9MjJ8/s1600/Cathedral+of+Christ+the+Saviour.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1016" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimk9rf1GyY0BAgbiFU0nxcJzpZnXmizERehXWqHHPGZkB9MCwWEyx8uh6Cefgn6C0OvSmpOvHPPgkYL84TmlxBg54VVVFr47H7GGPrB-MRU_LZsMjORJufaE_nrnWja6qR4tf6Nv9MjJ8/s640/Cathedral+of+Christ+the+Saviour.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral of Christ the Saviour</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Few metres away from the
Kremlin, the bright white walls and glistening golden domes of Cathedral of
Christ the saviour can be seen from far and wide. The Cathedral is the largest
Ordhodox Church in the World and is also the most important church in the
country.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The cathedral that you see
today is a close replica of the original cathedral and was restored between
1994 and 2000. The original cathedral was built in the 19<sup>th</sup> century
in honour of the victory over the Napoleon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Of all the churches in Moscow,
none are as impressive, opulent and grandiose as Cathedral of Christ the
Saviour. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtddQnbnxDlIEdh9Gduj2CHCEnoKDwhNOQnKMikvT9pwmbpEkN2zAXSAYOD9xQkyBf6UhaytltEccrAr2UWKNoLBrouWtPb7ru3SN2ElyqSwlt4j0_RUZzunyGzisTMAytqQ4mBSwb-F4/s1600/Christ+of+Saviour.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtddQnbnxDlIEdh9Gduj2CHCEnoKDwhNOQnKMikvT9pwmbpEkN2zAXSAYOD9xQkyBf6UhaytltEccrAr2UWKNoLBrouWtPb7ru3SN2ElyqSwlt4j0_RUZzunyGzisTMAytqQ4mBSwb-F4/s640/Christ+of+Saviour.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The entry to the Cathedral is
free, but clicking pictures inside the cathedral is strictly prohibited. As it
is a place of worship, it is advised to dress conservatively. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Do get on the bridge in front
of the Cathedral to enjoy the amazing view of the Kremlin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Opening
Hours:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Tue,
Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun: 10:00 to 18:00 <br>
Mon: 13:00 – 21:00<br>
Admission Free<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Website:
</span><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="http://new.xxc.ru/">http://new.xxc.ru/</a></span><i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station:
Kropotkinskaya<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Alexander Garden<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8M-V04yDegf0Z2HPodGCp7-kt5j8RthZM0BSqFbQxjkaz-ueuAOwLLz2NL8qsuPFgZUPTDFAqTUoYhDppwQoG0il_Xyh4Bw821gpmmTpHAmd_FXH19Q-WD9ai_xGs6t4uOhbKK1zEjM/s1600/Road+Directions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8M-V04yDegf0Z2HPodGCp7-kt5j8RthZM0BSqFbQxjkaz-ueuAOwLLz2NL8qsuPFgZUPTDFAqTUoYhDppwQoG0il_Xyh4Bw821gpmmTpHAmd_FXH19Q-WD9ai_xGs6t4uOhbKK1zEjM/s640/Road+Directions.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">At the back of the Kremlin and
at the end of the Red Square is the Alexander Garden. It’s a beautiful set of
garden, fountains and statues and is a good place to stroll and relax in the
very center of the Red Square.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The garden was laid out at the beginning
of the 19<sup>th</sup> century and Emperor Alexander I personally ordered the
garden to be created. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The garden also has many
monuments erected in memory of the two major Russian wars - the one in 1812
(against France) and WWII<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Okhotny Ryad, a shopping mall
is located just at the end of the Alexander Garden and is a good mix of high
end and budget shops. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Zaryadye Park<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIxc0qVGNa1Ew_PpXlr_y20dQz0dM5dDEkQicfAR8oSyt-oyc9GEqxTJ7DlZ0FMgYcipFfQhVlysP5JeSyXIONXPDozJQXn7Ld0r7HjDpgeaNcdPkoQGSAeEGljl4G2ABFulT5MTJPIA/s1600/Zaryadye+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIxc0qVGNa1Ew_PpXlr_y20dQz0dM5dDEkQicfAR8oSyt-oyc9GEqxTJ7DlZ0FMgYcipFfQhVlysP5JeSyXIONXPDozJQXn7Ld0r7HjDpgeaNcdPkoQGSAeEGljl4G2ABFulT5MTJPIA/s640/Zaryadye+Park.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Zaryadye Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">A new addition in the long list
of places to see in Moscow is Zaryadye Park, which is a stone throw away from
the Red Square. The park is massive in size overlooking the Moskva River. The
park has various eating joints and a small amphitheater. It has now become a
very popular place for live musical performances.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Don’t forget to enjoy the
breathtaking view of the Kremlin from the newly constructed floating bridge in
the Zaryadye Park.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station: Kitay
Gorod<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Bolshoi Theatre<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJyMMUW9C-_XGl7tJu7eSFfUqPn3QE8Q_SmqUU6a_vaMl7Fv6-lY1n2Colv-Drspviibpblitn8y3_M-9Jk6cbGGLlDXVrsvLfkaoe35JrcxNK0yjDGT_F8BC4EGFVQWYY0q-pValNn8/s1600/Bolshoi+Theatre.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bolshoi Theatre" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJyMMUW9C-_XGl7tJu7eSFfUqPn3QE8Q_SmqUU6a_vaMl7Fv6-lY1n2Colv-Drspviibpblitn8y3_M-9Jk6cbGGLlDXVrsvLfkaoe35JrcxNK0yjDGT_F8BC4EGFVQWYY0q-pValNn8/s640/Bolshoi+Theatre.jpg" title="Bolshoi Theatre" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bolshoi Theatre</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">The Bolshoi Theatre is one of
the most celebrated theatres in the world. It was opened on 20</span><sup style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">
October 1856 on Tsar Alexander II’s coronation day.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">On 29<sup>th</sup> October 2002
the Bolshoi was given a New Stage while the Historic stage was undergoing
reconstruction and renovation. The revamping project lasted from 1 July 2005 to
28<sup>th</sup> October 2011 and today it boasts of most technically equipped
theatre in the World.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">But please be prepared to empty
your pockets as a ticket at Bolshoi will surely leave a dent in your wallet. You
can book a ticket online or if you want you can standing tickets are also
available. The ticket counters open two hours before the actual show but be
sure to stand in the line quickly because the tickets are sold like hot cakes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">There
are two ways you can visit the Bolshoi theatre – you can either buy tickets to
attend a ballet or opera performance or you can take a guided tour of the
historic building. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">For a fancy night of culture
and high society head to Bolshoi for an opera or ballet performance. Trust me,
its whimsical and glamorous!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Address:
1, Teatralnaya Square<br>
Website: </span><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="https://www.bolshoi.ru/">https://www.bolshoi.ru/</a></span><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br>
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Gorky Park<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaW_f25WMVviCKnVZHDH1lPQvhrI-4X_i55iKW0Q73I4YTdq1SoQSQebi11-rQ2lm8SzCulUp_fLSW6mRULHe8BuQDX84RnTeLaS2EXUVqKjZMwq-HkkIgDs8zBKh2DQ4TVdN0filj9QE/s1600/Entry+to+Gorky+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaW_f25WMVviCKnVZHDH1lPQvhrI-4X_i55iKW0Q73I4YTdq1SoQSQebi11-rQ2lm8SzCulUp_fLSW6mRULHe8BuQDX84RnTeLaS2EXUVqKjZMwq-HkkIgDs8zBKh2DQ4TVdN0filj9QE/s640/Entry+to+Gorky+Park.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entry to Gorky Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Take a break from walking
around the historical attractions and rest in the well groomed green areas on
Moscow. Gorky Park provides some of Moscow’s best people-watching spots and
offers various activities you can do with your group. It is the biggest and the
most famous park in Moscow.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">First established in 1923,
Gorky Park underwent a huge reconstruction in 2011.<o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPc4_fypenVvF8qfUQ0jeIFa4tojd90kmBh5y5exl4_LomFc2Lf6gkUd_bqR4xn7lmySDJ9tgZds-a2FXBFGIB_Oy1xEK0vifpfq49dqFOSeN8QequoNID4rVQHJRk_rs8kUoTZdIDQoI/s1600/Gorky+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPc4_fypenVvF8qfUQ0jeIFa4tojd90kmBh5y5exl4_LomFc2Lf6gkUd_bqR4xn7lmySDJ9tgZds-a2FXBFGIB_Oy1xEK0vifpfq49dqFOSeN8QequoNID4rVQHJRk_rs8kUoTZdIDQoI/s640/Gorky+Park.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The 30 acres park has play area
for children of all age groups, a beach volley ball court, ping pong, skate
boarding, skating, bike riding etc. In winters half of the park becomes an ice
rink, with separate segments for children, ice hockey, dancing and skating. If
you want to enjoy a cruise, aboard a boat on the Moskva River from the park.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The park also has eating
outlets wherein you can enjoy a meal or some coffee with your friends and
family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfB3gFiFRfohfIvmCDN-NfkY50ksyPPr_Zk1P1ym3t6rBqt9W1gSkqXN8kRNU7JzzCPPt8qVHsw88-nGk9LyCzaGEjg2yRNEas6VO9tKuRlfSVFno9GXXf1vzf_SKuJscbfOHyJrVbiQ/s1600/Gorky+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfB3gFiFRfohfIvmCDN-NfkY50ksyPPr_Zk1P1ym3t6rBqt9W1gSkqXN8kRNU7JzzCPPt8qVHsw88-nGk9LyCzaGEjg2yRNEas6VO9tKuRlfSVFno9GXXf1vzf_SKuJscbfOHyJrVbiQ/s640/Gorky+Park.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBmEIuMh16r1RVTb4kaeIDS5Q6hOJ5dmL465yVtvnQTBi7Ty4-FlwYg07HEN2UFk7Yv5C39J5FXm1mO_2lo_zpEBsCw_en3_crXHamAdTPlSNsYs1tgOjU9R-I1Y1l_Y9SUeT83yAmLZ8/s1600/Tulips+in+Gorky+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBmEIuMh16r1RVTb4kaeIDS5Q6hOJ5dmL465yVtvnQTBi7Ty4-FlwYg07HEN2UFk7Yv5C39J5FXm1mO_2lo_zpEBsCw_en3_crXHamAdTPlSNsYs1tgOjU9R-I1Y1l_Y9SUeT83yAmLZ8/s640/Tulips+in+Gorky+Park.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">It is the first Russian Park to
compete with some of the leading parks in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Entry is free and there is free
wifi throughout the park.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station: Park
Kultury, Oktyabrskaya<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Free Admission and is open 24
hrs.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sparrow Hill & Moscow State University (MSU)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Sparrow Hill, the highest point
of the city, is the best place to have a panoramic view of Moscow. Once known
as the Lenin Hill, Sparrow Hill has the amazing backdrop of the Moscow
University Building and is the perfect place to click pictures. There is a
viewing platform on the Sparrow Hill overlooking the Moscow River. The front
view is the Central Stadium which was the main venue of the 22<sup>nd</sup>
Olympic Games in 1980. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjAeOh0MRZvo3ZrjuCDb5lN29CqssMZoHvkR9DARduISW5z-cNosmy_F4Mr2ZP9iaEyEloI8UuCw_GtbpR1RCqgFw0Q4mAVRR1qYqD5_Bf69cSn-h1oxrvMkfwpQvNsdLoqPs0msSeMw4/s1600/Moscow+University.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Moscow State University" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjAeOh0MRZvo3ZrjuCDb5lN29CqssMZoHvkR9DARduISW5z-cNosmy_F4Mr2ZP9iaEyEloI8UuCw_GtbpR1RCqgFw0Q4mAVRR1qYqD5_Bf69cSn-h1oxrvMkfwpQvNsdLoqPs0msSeMw4/s640/Moscow+University.jpg" title="Moscow State University" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moscow State University</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Moscow State University is the
tallest amongst the Stalin’s seven skyscrapers (The Seven Sister). It is
definitely a building to watch. You might not get an entry inside the building
if you do not have the right student ID, but do drop by to appreciate the
massive and the beautiful MSU building.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station:
Universitet<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Metros in Moscow<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The easiest, fastest, cheapest and
the most efficient mode of transportation in Moscow is the metro. Even if you
plan to travel by taxi, you should go underground to see some of the beautiful
metro stations of Moscow. I am sure the metro stations will leave you spell
bound!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Opened in 1935, it is one of
the largest and oldest underground railway systems in the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">With its grand architecture,
intricate mosaics, it has turned many metro stations into picturesque tourist
attractions. Most of the stations look like a monument; with every station has
its own distinctive decoration, theme and may be a fascinating story to tell. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">I suggest visiting the metro
stations during dead hours (11 am to 4 pm) and thus avoiding the peak hours of
Moscow. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">There are 12 lines and a total
of 200 stations and counting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Few metro stations that we
visited were:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Mayakovskaya</span></b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"> is considered as
one of the stunning metro station in Moscow. The station is gleaming with domed
arches and it feels like a luxury hotel. This metro station was erected in
1938, three years before the beginning of World War II. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Novoslobodskaya</span></b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"> Station is
decorated with stained glass panel.</span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Komsomolskaya</span></b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"> is definitely one
of the prettiest metro stop with impressive chandeliers. You will be forgiven
for thinking that you have accidentally strolled into a palace rather than a
metro station. Yellow has recently become my favourite colour </span><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "wingdings";">J</span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "wingdings";"><br></span></div>
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<br></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><b>Okhotny Ryad </b>- This metro station is closest to the Red Square and also leads to one of Moscow's main downtown street - Okhotny Ryad</span><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzc5Ff0s_TvYvnAiz1RIfUCmMwY-vkOXLQdUIUvgjl1PJLfPmAYNzX9YB0-fHGAUW_buOhQO3Uq4VOxjrMgsnYyYVKZLxQ367Eu7fVjD9_iID2NOPkd3UhhfVUUrBQ4obrDZ1OkOHuBU/s1600/Okhotny+Ryad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzc5Ff0s_TvYvnAiz1RIfUCmMwY-vkOXLQdUIUvgjl1PJLfPmAYNzX9YB0-fHGAUW_buOhQO3Uq4VOxjrMgsnYyYVKZLxQ367Eu7fVjD9_iID2NOPkd3UhhfVUUrBQ4obrDZ1OkOHuBU/s640/Okhotny+Ryad.jpg" width="480"></a></div>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><b>Kurskaya - </b>The most striking point of this metro station are its marble covered walls, the moldings in its ceilings and the chandeliers.</span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdP5zLYgfzYwOypjir4ZNpHqxQSgGUsOjf217DdNryk-jP7mVfOjDs_NAbdq8daGupEhj6tuneUaFsXdlK7D-4MeWc_TArwFQ4s08hmKhMVlwXa-FREIcmatCO3rumo0PnTpUyEu7icAI/s1600/Kurskaya+Metro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdP5zLYgfzYwOypjir4ZNpHqxQSgGUsOjf217DdNryk-jP7mVfOjDs_NAbdq8daGupEhj6tuneUaFsXdlK7D-4MeWc_TArwFQ4s08hmKhMVlwXa-FREIcmatCO3rumo0PnTpUyEu7icAI/s640/Kurskaya+Metro.jpg" width="480"></a></div>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Bolorusskya</span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_j_MM-h_lgHSLf3WliXFWEgQVsUBRf4i7WGNuTXQx6aSZM-AITGDZLigfUgAquYKNKpl-jvOt5Rvu8aPnEGI21xv2Sk80jYc6kF9CGXRMtSXLoIywqcFhWwyVEWWwkn6gr5ql9VUPJM/s1600/Bolorusskya+Metro+Station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_j_MM-h_lgHSLf3WliXFWEgQVsUBRf4i7WGNuTXQx6aSZM-AITGDZLigfUgAquYKNKpl-jvOt5Rvu8aPnEGI21xv2Sk80jYc6kF9CGXRMtSXLoIywqcFhWwyVEWWwkn6gr5ql9VUPJM/s640/Bolorusskya+Metro+Station.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></b></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Ploshchad
Revolyutsii</span></b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">
is one of the most popular metro station and is very near to Red Square. This
metro station is famous for its bronze sculptures. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">VDNKH <o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0R5SOuP6PJmh0xd1oQnBEuqfR_nfnYEdmPKvlZkLvZ8rbVUnbdon0N7Q5tZvUUlaYNcLP6YAX68lAJEI4EdqaVdW91VP6V5bnKxFsoUBgtbRDY8eHwYXSJl7PMSeZ9_r-rwbMO7mkUo/s1600/VDNKH+I.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="VDNKH" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0R5SOuP6PJmh0xd1oQnBEuqfR_nfnYEdmPKvlZkLvZ8rbVUnbdon0N7Q5tZvUUlaYNcLP6YAX68lAJEI4EdqaVdW91VP6V5bnKxFsoUBgtbRDY8eHwYXSJl7PMSeZ9_r-rwbMO7mkUo/s640/VDNKH+I.jpg" title="VDNKH" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VDNKH Entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Try reading this - vystava dostizheniy
narodnogo khozyaystva</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">This is the full form of VDNKH,
the English translation is the Exhibition of Achievements of the People’s
Economy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXCt3uVDVka4gTNpnYQphJPbdvAyRu5T5NCk554YslXS9xoFI5owszbtXTn1pD1bKklu_hvXR_9cdHEjwajusSbLAsR16XXhOKL6VA7C9R5P0VWjyx_vxdbS00veliQ9xhYQ2Z2kNbdE/s1600/VDNKH.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="VDNKH" border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1280" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXCt3uVDVka4gTNpnYQphJPbdvAyRu5T5NCk554YslXS9xoFI5owszbtXTn1pD1bKklu_hvXR_9cdHEjwajusSbLAsR16XXhOKL6VA7C9R5P0VWjyx_vxdbS00veliQ9xhYQ2Z2kNbdE/s640/VDNKH.jpg" title="VDNKH" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VDNKH</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">There is a museum of
Cosmonautics just in front of the metro station, where you can learn something
new about space exploration. The museum boasts a collection of 85000 pieces
relating to Russian space exploration.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We visited the Park on a
weekday but since the holidays were going on in Russia, there were lot of
people there. The complex includes more than 500 structures some of them being
heritage buildings. It serves as a park where people can relax, hangout, cycle,
skate and eat. </span><br>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Opening
Hours:</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Mon,
Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun : 10:00 to 19:00 <br>
Thur, Sat : 10:00 – 21:00<br>
The entrance fee is 250 Ruble.<br><br>
</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Address: 119 Mira Square, Moscow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Website:
</span><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="https://vdnh.ru/">https://vdnh.ru/</a></span><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Old Arbat & New Arbat Street<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy_I1sM7ahIzn58XiOYzlgANNcmo7xD0NaW3KohfQ20rZkb_Ky0-ScnsET936QCeklEXlqh4DfLocKLuakA3g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Arbat Street is one of the
oldest, cobbled pedestrian street in Moscow and is a perfect place for evening
stroll. The street is lined with numerous shops and small cafes and restaurants
which makes it a perfect place for souvenirs and curios shopping.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The street is full of street
performers and musicians at Arbat Street which makes for a great atmosphere. The
street can be an overwhelming place because it is constantly in motion and
buzzing with activities. It is incredibly welcoming and sure is touristy, but
it’s a fun place to walk around, window shop and grab a bite. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Izmailovo Kremlin & Flea Market<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnKNPmrqN1susc6elRB6A2kbKbBoCM8Uf_dNAVffYNWphxr-C1jl2op9MRRsp919YSdD4mHVTe0wySV9O8_1y0Hcz6q0V-9hn6gw1zrZHATdHvZHU9rLuebPvQnAk2Mw7LJp1WusNeXo/s1600/Izmailovo+Kremlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="1280" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnKNPmrqN1susc6elRB6A2kbKbBoCM8Uf_dNAVffYNWphxr-C1jl2op9MRRsp919YSdD4mHVTe0wySV9O8_1y0Hcz6q0V-9hn6gw1zrZHATdHvZHU9rLuebPvQnAk2Mw7LJp1WusNeXo/s640/Izmailovo+Kremlin.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Do you know that there is a second
Kremlin located in the north east part of Moscow? Make an effort to venture a
little outside from the centre of the city to Izmailovo Kremlin & Market. Brimming
with museums, regal palaces and galleries, the area is a cultural hub which
provides ample photo opportunities. The main courtyard of the Kremlin offers
ample culinary specialties. This colourful fairy tale palace was recently build
in 2007 is a popular venue for weddings. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQ07w1QdXq2XOVQz-G3Sl_6Hc5o81BPYLwsDgeUkkJy3zSQ5nPPuvMAnwD_DtHBTuEJ3KdzwcUFGr_3sxcK4yQsB3_Itk5ST1ebN5TuUdfqKezhJul85SQx7kLGMKcdHQ6qgsgN_ADIA/s1600/Inside+Izmailovo+Kremlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQ07w1QdXq2XOVQz-G3Sl_6Hc5o81BPYLwsDgeUkkJy3zSQ5nPPuvMAnwD_DtHBTuEJ3KdzwcUFGr_3sxcK4yQsB3_Itk5ST1ebN5TuUdfqKezhJul85SQx7kLGMKcdHQ6qgsgN_ADIA/s640/Inside+Izmailovo+Kremlin.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Next to the Kremlin, is the Izmailovo
open air flea market, the perfect place to find the best souvenirs and tourist
trinkets in Moscow. The market has the biggest and best selection for
Matryoshka dolls, vodka short glasses, warm caps and gloves, fridge magnets, Putin
paraphernalia ranging from towels, mugs to T shirts.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Don’t forget to bargain, that’s
a must here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Opening
Hours:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Every
day: 08:00 to 21:00 <br>
Website: </span><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="https://www.kremlin-izmailovo.com/">https://www.kremlin-izmailovo.com/</a></span><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Nearest Metro Station: Partizanskaya,
Izmailovo<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Moscow City Skyscrapers<o:p></o:p></span></b><br>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7HZMQ0WD65hZ96eTRkiByvb8ZA6dLa7HtwZFTg9T1H0kzjz2EDZzG1FstJ9DWU7T3ivP5TYwARHfuZHi1I7BqrFT65hpYk079jLShRjY2atcqJv71cmMIfIMpnVkpPF8D4p-3n0VNro/s1600/Moscow+River+Cruise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="1280" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7HZMQ0WD65hZ96eTRkiByvb8ZA6dLa7HtwZFTg9T1H0kzjz2EDZzG1FstJ9DWU7T3ivP5TYwARHfuZHi1I7BqrFT65hpYk079jLShRjY2atcqJv71cmMIfIMpnVkpPF8D4p-3n0VNro/s640/Moscow+River+Cruise.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">The Moscow city gives a glimpse
of the future modern city with breathtaking skyscrapers, hotels, offices,
malls, theatre, commercial complex etc.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The Federation Tower is the
tallest building in Europe (374 meters). The Imperia Tower is 352 meters tall
and is equipped with a sightseeing platform. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Afimall commercial and
entertainment center is situated in the heart of the Moscow city. It includes
over 100,000 square meters of shops, cafes and entertainment venues. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Website:
</span><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="https://citymoscow.ru/">https://citymoscow.ru/</a></span><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br></div>
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<br></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Things Not to Miss in Moscow<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Tour
the Red Square and the Kremlin</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">See
a ballet performance at the Bolshoi Theatre</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Ride
on the Moscow metro are not to be missed</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Buy
some Soviet souvenirs </span></li>
</ul>
<br>
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<br></div>
<br></div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-23201543164998243732020-05-20T13:34:00.000+05:302020-05-20T13:37:01.600+05:30Panch Prayag - The confluence<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span>
Panch Prayag
connotes the confluence of five sacred rivers in the Himalayas located in the
state of Uttarakhand in India. These five prayags are considered holy and
bathing at these points of confluences is considered as cleansing of soul. The
last rites of the departed are also prevalent at these points.</div>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN">As per Hinduism,
the confluence of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati at Allahabad is
considered the holiest. The Panch Prayag in Uttarakhand is next in order. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN">Enroute
Badrinath, the Prayags are located at scenic locations with the snow covered
peaks of Himalayas and enchanting valleys. It is believed that Panch Prayag is
the road to heaven and is said that the Pandavas followed this route to attain
salvation.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">The
story of River Ganga<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNJtr62QeNyOScCfSL1QtUPxvacUkyLohdXu6AMABYItCWGkSZsei61hOIzr1jcacoxWG_MtnEJtgim0wtBph16si_gFQrBCehg12gedJ_CHDU6YyjKIhvbpxMJDGUVsfIIS4EzWbBXA/s1600/One+of+the+many+bridges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNJtr62QeNyOScCfSL1QtUPxvacUkyLohdXu6AMABYItCWGkSZsei61hOIzr1jcacoxWG_MtnEJtgim0wtBph16si_gFQrBCehg12gedJ_CHDU6YyjKIhvbpxMJDGUVsfIIS4EzWbBXA/s640/One+of+the+many+bridges.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many bridges</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: justify;">In Hinduism,
River Ganga is considered sacred and is thus personified as Goddess Ganga. The
water of River Ganga is considered holy and it is believed that bathing in the
river causes the remission of sins and in attainment of Moksha.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN">When Goddess
Ganga descended to Earth, the might of Ganga gushing down to earth would have
been too immense for the land to bear. There would have been earthquakes,
floods and the crops would have been ruined for years to come. So, Lord Shiva
sat at the spot where Ganga will fall and bear the impact of her power on his
head. Ganga cascaded down from the sky as a mighty waterfall on Shiva, wherein
Lord Shiva imprisoned her in the locks of his hair. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN">When Ganga
reached Earth, she was harmlessly split into various streams. After passing
through five confluences the streams unites and form the sacred Ganga. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IN">In the descending flow sequence the five
points of confluence are:</span></div>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Vishnu Prayag</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Nand Prayag</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Karna Prayag</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Rudra Prayag</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Dev Prayag</span></li>
</ul>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Vishnu Prayag<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN">Vishnuprayag is
the confluence of River Alaknanda and Dhauli Ganga. Alaknanda originates from
the Satopanth glacier whereas Dhauli Ganga originates from Niti Pass. After
flowing for around 26 kms Dauli Ganga meets River Alaknanada at Vishnuprayag. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Places
to see near Vishnu Prayag<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Badrinath Temple </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">is one<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>of the<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>most sacred pilgrimage destinations as per Hindu religion and forms
one of the Char Dham sites. Badrinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is
perched at an altitude of 3133 metres above sea level. The temple is opened for
six months in a year because of the extreme weather conditions in the
Himalayas. The temple is located along the banks of Alaknanda River in the
Chamoli district of the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="http://nupurgoyal.blogspot.com/2019/05/auli-paradise-on-earth.html" target="_blank">Auli</a></span></b><span lang="EN-IN"> is a hiking and skiing
destination and is located 3050 above sea level. Auli is blessed with a
paranomic view of the Himalayas and is surrounded by coniferous and oak trees.
Auli slopes are intended for novice and professional skiers. It has a 4 kms
cable car, chair car and ski lift and has two resorts by Garhwal Mandal Vikas
Nigam Limited. Check out my blog of Auli <a href="http://nupurgoyal.blogspot.com/2019/05/auli-paradise-on-earth.html" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Nandprayag <o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN">River Alaknanda is joined by Nandakini River
at 1358 meters above sea level approx. River Nandakini originates from the
glacier below Nanda Ghunti. This confluence is located 22 kms from Karnaprayag
and around 194 kms from Rishikesh. The place is named after King Nanda who had
performed yagna at this place and gave generous donations to people to seek
blessings of God.</span></div>
</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Places
to see near Nandprayag<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><a href="http://nupurgoyal.blogspot.com/2020/05/tunganath-chandrashila-peak.html" target="_blank">Tungnath</a> </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">is one of the
highest Lord Shiva temples in the world. Tunganath is perched at an altitude of
3680m/12,073 ft above sea level and is located just below the peak of
Chandrashila. Tunganath literally translates to “Lord of the Peaks”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tunganath can be accessed through roads till
Chopta (2926m/9600 ft) and then an uphill trek of 5 kms. Check out my trek to Tunganath <a href="http://nupurgoyal.blogspot.com/2020/05/tunganath-chandrashila-peak.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Chopta </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">is a small village
very popular amongst the trekking enthusiast.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>Chopta forms as a base camp for trekking to Tunganath Temple and
Chandrashila. Chopta is accessible through roads and is well connected to
Dehradun and Rishikesh.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Karnaprayag<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibN4Hkm0dQe9Yznu-mzA-kh-G_h_vUYpVKmQ0mbtg-NGCi8hPDihpMvpwIa1A7BWmtJRBdMdqCobiGHMaAiFKr-nYSrudYiwg340RXajycNrevv5TfyA7jxdHmNso7K7cjuNB11cwkiY/s1600/Karna+Prayag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1152" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibN4Hkm0dQe9Yznu-mzA-kh-G_h_vUYpVKmQ0mbtg-NGCi8hPDihpMvpwIa1A7BWmtJRBdMdqCobiGHMaAiFKr-nYSrudYiwg340RXajycNrevv5TfyA7jxdHmNso7K7cjuNB11cwkiY/s640/Karna+Prayag.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN">After flowing
through Vishnuprayag and Nandprayag, River Alaknanda joins the River Pindar which
originates from Pindar Glacier. It is believed that Karna did the penance at
this location and this is the place where Lord Krishna cremated Karna. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Places
to see near Karnaprayag<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Hemkund Sahib </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">is a place
of worship for Sikhs and<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>is devoted
to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth sikh guru. It is located in the Himalayas at an
elevation of 4632m/15197 ft and is approached from Govindghat which is 275 kms
from Rishikesh. 9 kms trek from Govindghat to a small village Ghangaria is
reasonably well maintained. From Ghangaria 3600 ft climb on a 6 kms stone paved
path leads to Hemkund Sahib. Overnight stay is not allowed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Valley of Flowers </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">is
another 3 kms trek from the village Ghangaria. The visitors to Valley of
Flowers need to get a permit from the Forest Department at Ghangaria and the
permit is valid for three days. Trekking to valley of flowers is allowed only
during day time. The best time to visit is in july and early September when the
valley is full of flowers. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Rudraprayag<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzBDc2Uue0K4xPAzwb8YYTx3oICRBT-yYzsW9PafpTYRlM0dtsUczDDOqQVYnJrAs6kQVV_rUaGZ0GKGPpUFA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN">The fourth
confluence amongst Panch Prayag is situated at the convergence of two holy rivers
– River Alaknanda and Mandakini in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand.
River Mandakini originates from Chorabari glacier near Kedarnath and flows
around 50-60 kms before reaching Rudraprayag. The most popular story associated
with his place is of Lord Shiva also known as Lord Rudra. It is said that Lord
Shiva performed Tandav dance here and played his favourite musical instrument –
Rudra Veena. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-IN">The main road fork
at Rudraprayag – one runs parallel to River Alaknanda and will take you to
Badrinath. The other road runs parallel to River Mandakini all the way till
Gaurikund which is at the foothills of Kedarnath.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Places
to see near Rudraprayag<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Kedarnath Temple </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">is a Hindu
temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located near the Mandakini River in the Garhwal
Region of Uttarakhand. Due to extreme climate the temple is open from April to
November only. The temple is not directly accessed by road and has to be
reached by a 16 kms uphill trek from Gaurikund. Kedarnath Temple is one of the
twelve <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">jyotilingas</i>, the holiest Hindu
shrine for Lord Shiva. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Ukimath – </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">During winters
the deity from Kedarnath Temple is carried down to Ukimath and is worshipped for
six months. Ukimath is situated 41 kms from Rudraprayag. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Devprayag<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFiTesgfPXZYgKSZleuAQ_c4o6ZTD44tpD7LRNQYmMaTJMh_fBJOh94RQrYcSptmgpswpVFcItdUi6rLKr7QMtqvHeEcTyNA_EdaFIkBFEIsnjn3retpj8zsvwo8G7k1a5aG-PU-eKUac/s1600/Dev+Prayag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFiTesgfPXZYgKSZleuAQ_c4o6ZTD44tpD7LRNQYmMaTJMh_fBJOh94RQrYcSptmgpswpVFcItdUi6rLKr7QMtqvHeEcTyNA_EdaFIkBFEIsnjn3retpj8zsvwo8G7k1a5aG-PU-eKUac/s640/Dev+Prayag.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green water of Bhagirathi and Mudy water of Alaknanda</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">Devprayag is the
last confluence where River Bhagirathi from Gangotri glacier meets the holy
River Alaknanda and the sacred River Ganga comes to life. Devprayag is located
at an elevation of 830m/2700 ft and the name translates to “Godly confluence”. The
confluence is clearly visible here, with muddy coloured Alaknanada meets the
bluish green Bhagirathi which flows at a high speed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
At Devprayag, you can clearly see the rushing green water of River Bhagirathi converging with the clam muddy water of River Alaknanda.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Places
to see near Devprayag<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Teen Dhara – </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">As the name
suggests<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>three water streams are
located in this area. This place has become one of the favourite resting places
of the tourist along the pious River Ganga and is located with many budget
friendly restaurants and dhabas.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">Raghunath Temple </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">is located
at the confluence of Alaknanada and Bhagirathi River.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>It is considered as one of the oldest temple of Lord Rama and pilgrims
come here to seek blessings of Lord Rama.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">How
to reach:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">By
Air: </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">Jolly Grant,<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>Dehradun is the closest airport. There are many car and bus
options from here. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">By
Train: </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">Closest railway station<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>is Rishikesh and Dehradun. From the railway station, opt for bus
or taxis.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-IN">By
Road: </span></b><span lang="EN-IN">Located on NH-58, this is the best way to reach
the panch prayags. The drive is long but rewarding with beautiful views. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-57650135689590167942020-05-14T16:44:00.000+05:302020-05-17T00:51:58.254+05:30Tunganath & Chandrashila Peak<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPM0-H6xD0_JxuJ5dvxCA-MbNVW1C54OisIQ4d1nYBRacajNcZkVzK31bVIr7XEKcXVIZhhlGL_k9p4AJtedP-tj7AS7MBQ9ml3tNVkVmx5jDed1LbpL5EPh9Xgn_vWanvjKu8OuzjFg/s1600/Chandrashila+Temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPM0-H6xD0_JxuJ5dvxCA-MbNVW1C54OisIQ4d1nYBRacajNcZkVzK31bVIr7XEKcXVIZhhlGL_k9p4AJtedP-tj7AS7MBQ9ml3tNVkVmx5jDed1LbpL5EPh9Xgn_vWanvjKu8OuzjFg/s640/Chandrashila+Temple.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chandrashila Trek with Tunganath is one of the most exciting
and adventurous trails in Uttarakhand. Rocky terrain leading to the summit to
witness the impressive panoramic views of the Himalayas leaves you enchanted.
Soaring upto 13000 feet decked with snow, oak trees, clouds and mists, this is
one trek you must take. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Tunganath Temple is the highest Shiva Temple in the world perched
at 3680 metres. The 1000 year old temple is open to public from April end to
November and is closed during winters and the deity is shifted to Mukku
Village. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chandrashila Trek Route
Map <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Haridwar – Chopta – Tunganath – Chandrashila Peak – Chopta -
Haridwar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Where is Chopta?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chopta is actually a small settlement on the main road with
few restaurants. It’s not even a village but a collection of restaurants and
hotels. It is the starting point for the trek to Tunganath and Chandrashila
Peak. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">But do remember there are two Choptas in this region. The
second Chopta is located near Rudraprayag which is actually a bigger village
and is thus shown more prominently on Google maps. Do not get confused. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just to let you know, there is a Chopta Valley is Sikkim also. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">How to reach Chopta<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRwZugwgqQwqxBF_446j_poREPixObtqWl0LCZB__RdaNiZxkHV8Qdkvpic8ppn3lbs6Og_E-50USGRrWNE27SHEH20iIw3gvWL0sfSalvyRahb86geQ3cweC9Ni2frpr3pTzDao2kM4/s1600/Enroute+Chopta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enroute Chopta" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRwZugwgqQwqxBF_446j_poREPixObtqWl0LCZB__RdaNiZxkHV8Qdkvpic8ppn3lbs6Og_E-50USGRrWNE27SHEH20iIw3gvWL0sfSalvyRahb86geQ3cweC9Ni2frpr3pTzDao2kM4/s640/Enroute+Chopta.jpg" title="Enroute Chopta" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute Chopta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By air: </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun<b> </b>is the nearest airport to Chopta. It takes
around 6 hours to cover 180 kms from Airport to Chopta by road on a private
vehicle</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">rail</b>: Haridwar
is the nearest railway station which is well connected with major Indian
cities. Local buses and Taxis are available from Haridwar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">road</b>: Government
buses, private buses and taxis run all the way from Haridwar to Chopta and
takes about 8 hours. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Trek from Chopta to
Tunganath Temple<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfQsoXyqI5yrXpUdCggXKBiQFDJdU8gp2tAZINQM9X5Is53pe9j0EJesSslNs4V7698JwSnUZElYME3LX2gXtXIHuNG6HZa_3d0LRKlwZaATLVEBD1Q8nnSARdu_OAsg76Ecogs8OIVQ/s1600/Trek+to+Tunganath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfQsoXyqI5yrXpUdCggXKBiQFDJdU8gp2tAZINQM9X5Is53pe9j0EJesSslNs4V7698JwSnUZElYME3LX2gXtXIHuNG6HZa_3d0LRKlwZaATLVEBD1Q8nnSARdu_OAsg76Ecogs8OIVQ/s640/Trek+to+Tunganath.jpg" width="480"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail to Tunganath Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The very nature of this beautiful and easy trek, distance and
connectivity to Chopta makes this an ideal trek for novice.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvJ9VwTkbVUo79xfRlKtiZh97AKHfPcHvcIqJo3ymYiF3LhK5g3jS7oBx0_LpkHGCXaAO-zNpvKOd67L6dgaBeF6nrj65GVgRxeqEwUIEzxkfEh0xtRR95ZP-tzydcIA0mzoRIQ8ca2A/s1600/Trek+to+the+top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvJ9VwTkbVUo79xfRlKtiZh97AKHfPcHvcIqJo3ymYiF3LhK5g3jS7oBx0_LpkHGCXaAO-zNpvKOd67L6dgaBeF6nrj65GVgRxeqEwUIEzxkfEh0xtRR95ZP-tzydcIA0mzoRIQ8ca2A/s640/Trek+to+the+top.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trek to the top</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The trekking distance between Chopta and Tunganath is 4 kms
and it usually takes 3 hours.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Time taken to trek from Chopta to Tunganath Temple is usually
three hours for an average person and another one hour from Tunganath to
Chandrashila. It can be classified as a fairly easy trek and is an ideal trek
for first timers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfA-LooKOEIkD7UmGwyMBfMJRGAbbSSy77Yjgyy94WiBzNeavMulLBPU31Ok6ZTYo5UsI0-M9kop19TIa5aHyFRVpNiHsS1oWWYqtVgfHpCfJ23XYbmnhzQYt75eDkJBpfWc_DofHXWhg/s1600/Tunganath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tunganath temple" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfA-LooKOEIkD7UmGwyMBfMJRGAbbSSy77Yjgyy94WiBzNeavMulLBPU31Ok6ZTYo5UsI0-M9kop19TIa5aHyFRVpNiHsS1oWWYqtVgfHpCfJ23XYbmnhzQYt75eDkJBpfWc_DofHXWhg/s640/Tunganath.jpg" title="Tunganath temple" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tunganath Temple - The Highest Shiva Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The trekking path from Chopta starts from the main road. The
trekking trail is well marked and is properly paved till Tunganath. Trees
welcome the trekkers as soon as the trek begins and an endless array of
snowcapped peaks can be seen on the left side.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFjSr6MveoQ1R7EQi0GedCJ4s4CIloRgmGgOQQeMyU01Cgyb6qO0Syq-wjMzO_CkuN5PdKeBpDaUVkWDSwnvFpFXDjggU8A0iMR1gRFJeI-FE9i2nwsHd8D0YC_-60EQ1NkvrmPGeFFs/s1600/Tunganath+Bell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tunganath Temple" border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFjSr6MveoQ1R7EQi0GedCJ4s4CIloRgmGgOQQeMyU01Cgyb6qO0Syq-wjMzO_CkuN5PdKeBpDaUVkWDSwnvFpFXDjggU8A0iMR1gRFJeI-FE9i2nwsHd8D0YC_-60EQ1NkvrmPGeFFs/s640/Tunganath+Bell.jpg" title="Tunganath Temple" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tunganath Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGNJofruN15kbRphhRsitZJ8EXRKrHrLzdf1tdms_20MLggyeLqeTF_AT4NHVvTU0dlc5QhGZxyDnSi5Bk24a1tZKXW07ihlo6JHBZtmmw2M_KlfqbhEUSLr4KOcmO-sBzj-fhjTRbEY/s1600/Tunganath++-+Snow+Shivling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tunganath Temple" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="839" height="584" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGNJofruN15kbRphhRsitZJ8EXRKrHrLzdf1tdms_20MLggyeLqeTF_AT4NHVvTU0dlc5QhGZxyDnSi5Bk24a1tZKXW07ihlo6JHBZtmmw2M_KlfqbhEUSLr4KOcmO-sBzj-fhjTRbEY/s640/Tunganath++-+Snow+Shivling.jpg" title="Tunganath Temple" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow Shivling at Tunganath Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The trail zigzags and steadily climbs up gaining altitude. There
are places where one can sit and enjoy the views of the snow capped
Himalayan range.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkAoCxLnOI04gqdgH_3h9zMuZiWFJMMePSc-K1Rb0Xdaub-X9AtASJYi2kb29auA_slxad5hmHxvQi3WWpknGYHEsf4oq5rmt4OlB5C6xkgc38urmoZNV7nx0VAfDBZupM9zNnzF2le50/s1600/Tunganath+Temple+-+Small+temples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkAoCxLnOI04gqdgH_3h9zMuZiWFJMMePSc-K1Rb0Xdaub-X9AtASJYi2kb29auA_slxad5hmHxvQi3WWpknGYHEsf4oq5rmt4OlB5C6xkgc38urmoZNV7nx0VAfDBZupM9zNnzF2le50/s640/Tunganath+Temple+-+Small+temples.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Trek from Tunganath
Temple to Chandrashila Peak<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtC_ooCPBXKgmpikLBjHGiZi3-9OoIISuxP5ooijASFCpmb6dJxZ89z94Rd8j-TzGPPusCUlkcagLcoymC_O26I5NLg1kAMtQbRP3TtHVavbZnBVvbCGMg0186YbJv8cSuKQA5lrKeJ0U/s1600/View+from+Chandrashila+Peak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandrashila Peak" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtC_ooCPBXKgmpikLBjHGiZi3-9OoIISuxP5ooijASFCpmb6dJxZ89z94Rd8j-TzGPPusCUlkcagLcoymC_O26I5NLg1kAMtQbRP3TtHVavbZnBVvbCGMg0186YbJv8cSuKQA5lrKeJ0U/s640/View+from+Chandrashila+Peak.jpg" title="Chandrashila Peak" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Chandrashila Peak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The trek from Tunganath Temple to Chandrashila Peak is of 1.5
kms and is a steep climb gaining 600 feet ascent to 13000 feet. The path to
Chandrashila starts from Tunganath itself and cannot be missed. There is a
small temple at Chandrashila Peak. One can savour the 360 degrees panoramic
view of the Himalaya Range from the Chandrashila Peak. Prominent peaks visible
from the peak are Trishul, Nanda Devi, Kamet, Kedar dome.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">While we were climbing Chandrashila Peak, it became cloudy and as soon we payed our regards to the temple at the Peak it started snowing (how cliche!!). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWD2BUm90aReX6c9rWahNZGauWGUVGTmx8nmqlWYrbDeWmQ1O2z4JW1L8eW28Qf4dqb1dboeoNJD7JqKs-fsonlWDl-NwgdelbgsXCorDqKR9QCaMHqxa_HglbS_p4mfdFNuwF0Jt_wg0/s1600/Chandrashila+Peak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandrashila Peak" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWD2BUm90aReX6c9rWahNZGauWGUVGTmx8nmqlWYrbDeWmQ1O2z4JW1L8eW28Qf4dqb1dboeoNJD7JqKs-fsonlWDl-NwgdelbgsXCorDqKR9QCaMHqxa_HglbS_p4mfdFNuwF0Jt_wg0/s640/Chandrashila+Peak.jpg" title="Chandrashila Peak" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chandrashila Peak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">According to mythological legends, Chandrashila is the place
where Lord Ram performed penance after killing Ravana.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Trekking back to
Tunganath and Chopta<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The downhill trek to Chopta will be an easy task and will
roughly take half the time taken to ascend the Chandrashila Peak. If there is
no hurry, take a leisure walk back and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the
mighty Himalayas. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Stays and accommodation
at Chopta<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjorRTBVN6BC6wQ5fmplL0LC2caR2MarrnwmhH2Pyu1KoFpKqdtojfW2U2cJimutslyZi_MEKBGc9kNmoT-oTTlNKHOCtp-FjRQJxHuNPLZ2_R26Aom2d6wzPj8icMQBfTcqXQMXtZ3F0I/s1600/Tents+in+Chopta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chopta - Tent accommodation" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjorRTBVN6BC6wQ5fmplL0LC2caR2MarrnwmhH2Pyu1KoFpKqdtojfW2U2cJimutslyZi_MEKBGc9kNmoT-oTTlNKHOCtp-FjRQJxHuNPLZ2_R26Aom2d6wzPj8icMQBfTcqXQMXtZ3F0I/s640/Tents+in+Chopta.jpg" title="Chopta - Tent accommodation" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tents at Chopta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Many lodges, guesthouses and tents are available in Chopta
and in the nearby village Sari on a single and sharing basis. Campsites are
also available in Chopta and Sari.</span></div>
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<br></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dos & Don’t’s<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHa274JwnbeDIXAcwRiGoA0fQI2151FgmM3fdefrdqsi-k5X-0selB5DKE0HF3SuwV8QQ_GWkN-GIXchTLpZkoll4zWr_NCAEssWdZYdWQdfaeeVfJuaAiNRuOB0OxJuUDgLhJPk3YGU/s1600/Our+Snowman.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHa274JwnbeDIXAcwRiGoA0fQI2151FgmM3fdefrdqsi-k5X-0selB5DKE0HF3SuwV8QQ_GWkN-GIXchTLpZkoll4zWr_NCAEssWdZYdWQdfaeeVfJuaAiNRuOB0OxJuUDgLhJPk3YGU/s640/Our+Snowman.JPG" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our very own SNOWMAN</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Carry sufficient water and keep yourself hydrated. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A good trekking shoe is a must. It can save your life. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Wear light clothes. Avoid jeans and body hugging clothes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dress as per the weather</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Carry some nuts and chocolate bars for instant energy</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Trekking poles are helpful and work as a third leg sharing
the body weight and pressure</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Physical Fitness is essential. Trekking needs a lot of
physical and mental strength and stamina. Start practicing from today.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Always remember that you are the inferior one in the
Himalayas. Listen to the weather.</span></li>
</ul>
<br>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-40587368302211967512020-04-01T17:47:00.000+05:302020-04-01T18:00:12.767+05:30Velneshwar – unexplored gem in Konkan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Velneshwar
is a small hamlet near the sea shore in Konkan blessed with Lord Shiva himself.
It is a small village known for its virgin beach, coconut, betel nuts, Hapus
mangoes and the exemplary Konkani cuisine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGL57w7xmXVnHqpk_Oc7s1dbTUgoR7uTqObasFODMtjg3kignqcSUQelH2AtSEW3UzqvJTv86pnpGYvv7Jc4NTluoMEw8N95K2GN3WtZrP8nhzGpt9P9fqgbOs7TuDCJy-5hizMzAal_o/s1600/Sunset+at+Velneshwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Velneshwar" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGL57w7xmXVnHqpk_Oc7s1dbTUgoR7uTqObasFODMtjg3kignqcSUQelH2AtSEW3UzqvJTv86pnpGYvv7Jc4NTluoMEw8N95K2GN3WtZrP8nhzGpt9P9fqgbOs7TuDCJy-5hizMzAal_o/s640/Sunset+at+Velneshwar.jpg" title="Velneshwar" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset in Velneshwar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">A
great place away from the crowds, this Konkan belt covering Guhagar –
Velneshwar – Ganpatipule remains untapped and unexplored by most.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Velneshwar
has a white sand clean beach surrounded by coconut and betel plantation, which
gives way to expanse of white sand and merges into the horizon. Swimming,
sunbathing and lazing on the beach are the only things to do here. One can
spends hours here by simply taking in the natural beauty. Don't miss the sunset
and especially early morning “moon-set”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Every
day in Velneshwar begins with cool breeze from the sea and the serene sound of
sea waves. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Popular Sites in Velneshwar:<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Velneshwar Temple</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> – is a beautiful temple of
Lord Shiva located right on the sea shore of Velneshwar. There are small
temples within the complex of the main temple of Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu etc. It
is said that the Lord in this temple instantly fulfils the wishes asked by the
devotees and thus is aptly named Velneshwar (Vel – n – Ishwar). “Vel” in Marathi
means not wasting any time and Ishwar means God.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdrpVjmqRCkDWECPXXisT-Tx6SSNaH-WlOn16UVxWGKNQKQsTz7bIJcyxqCX9D2cmZ5bibu17kC5q8ahlT4fdCbarBmPB-T7kavKiSH8CbkgCDQU8xrvidgWijBL0PG5gl39fAAzdItE/s1600/Velneshwar+Temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Velneshwar Temple" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdrpVjmqRCkDWECPXXisT-Tx6SSNaH-WlOn16UVxWGKNQKQsTz7bIJcyxqCX9D2cmZ5bibu17kC5q8ahlT4fdCbarBmPB-T7kavKiSH8CbkgCDQU8xrvidgWijBL0PG5gl39fAAzdItE/s640/Velneshwar+Temple.JPG" title="Velneshwar Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velneshwar Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The
entrance of the temple is welcomed by a tall Deepmaala. Mahashivratri
celebrations are celebrated in this temple with lot of fanfare which attracts
tourists and devotes from far.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><b>Velneshwar Beach</b> - The beach is spotless without any sign of commercial activity. It is fairly expansive and without too much of tourist crowd. There are a couple of resorts right at the beach, if you enjoy being next to the shore. If you are any early riser and venture out for a walk on the beach, you will find locals exercising a bit and tourists trying to collect a few sea shells.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiL1zxwVevOUddRx1ldcNCoSoLA6SLM5rQn9z9dXScnA2XqFdoOWkim9F43auNj3kmHIpwQWUYF8UdYiYHi-sKStygbGbhZjJJvdDg5bw0rL2b6AQSPQQxDIq_m5gU1qY_qM0QoUiZ16c/s1600/Velneshwar+Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Velneshwar Beach" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiL1zxwVevOUddRx1ldcNCoSoLA6SLM5rQn9z9dXScnA2XqFdoOWkim9F43auNj3kmHIpwQWUYF8UdYiYHi-sKStygbGbhZjJJvdDg5bw0rL2b6AQSPQQxDIq_m5gU1qY_qM0QoUiZ16c/s640/Velneshwar+Beach.jpg" title="Velneshwar Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velneshwar Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Popular Sites in Hedvi:<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHSjiJUHxWQzyu_huH397-mfwKBPK4UQRR0vFza_14mz8Qg5VRCp7XM4FMlurlRS-uYGxKx8mFjPC95RmFuB-KjZDmG4RkUG27kQCYFCjtGAkfRLtqQrrgksNodgtL9mgbfapGWXAbyk/s1600/Hedvi+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hedvi Beach" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHSjiJUHxWQzyu_huH397-mfwKBPK4UQRR0vFza_14mz8Qg5VRCp7XM4FMlurlRS-uYGxKx8mFjPC95RmFuB-KjZDmG4RkUG27kQCYFCjtGAkfRLtqQrrgksNodgtL9mgbfapGWXAbyk/s640/Hedvi+Beach.JPG" title="Hedvi Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hedvi Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Hedvi
is located approximately 5 kms towards south of Velneshwar. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another white sand beach, totally secluded is Hedvi
beach which is hidden beyond small roads. Temple of Uma Maheshwari is located on the sea shore.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Brahmangal - Near the hedvi beach there is a 20 feet deep gorge in the black rocks wherein the sea water gushes in and when it hits the end of the gorge, the water rises as high as 20-30 feet. During high tide it is a sight to behold.</span><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKySf2BRyRMewVqSy707-3yYvO8i2oulcJx-QBzyuyEyckYcLks4alM6e7lgSzwY0XuhzF7R8PfjENjLd7QCMWiFSXerW4DikUlTgI3d8m_kjEFLWNNG3tAW1nm2yQ8_CbPS0ZleeqEQ/s1600/Brahmangal%252C+Hedvi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Brahmangal Hedvi" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKySf2BRyRMewVqSy707-3yYvO8i2oulcJx-QBzyuyEyckYcLks4alM6e7lgSzwY0XuhzF7R8PfjENjLd7QCMWiFSXerW4DikUlTgI3d8m_kjEFLWNNG3tAW1nm2yQ8_CbPS0ZleeqEQ/s640/Brahmangal%252C+Hedvi.JPG" title="Brahmangal Hedvi" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brahmangal, Hedvi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>Dashabhja Ganesh Mandir </b>- Hedvi is famous for this temple which is very well maintained and peaceful in nature. The temple of Lord Ganesha is carved in Marble and as the name of the temple states has 10 hands. The temple dates back to the age of Peshwas.</span></span><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ohRpAXwzKpWOnJeGhkPvekZJajNoBg2I5xpF9GA_Y0BV9Q16sXR3dPhGP35e-bxNVrIN7qXNhSJESXB14sI_UCM9651PbUN2SGmamx3hWV9imw8fdq8hkPjrELuFAeY41NPuoDOYgVI/s1600/Dashabhuja+Ganesh+Temple%252C+Hedvi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dashabhuja Ganesh Temple, Hedvi" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ohRpAXwzKpWOnJeGhkPvekZJajNoBg2I5xpF9GA_Y0BV9Q16sXR3dPhGP35e-bxNVrIN7qXNhSJESXB14sI_UCM9651PbUN2SGmamx3hWV9imw8fdq8hkPjrELuFAeY41NPuoDOYgVI/s640/Dashabhuja+Ganesh+Temple%252C+Hedvi.JPG" title="Dashabhuja Ganesh Temple, Hedvi" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dashabhuja Ganesh Temple, Hedvi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Popular Sites in Guhagar:<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;">Guhagar is 15 kms away from Velneshwar and is a beautiful drive through ghats. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;">Guhagar Beach</span></b><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"> – is a beautiful and well
maintained beach in Konkan. The beach is walking distance from the cneter point
of Guhagar. The beach also has parasailing and water sports options. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAP1Eo-Rk-1rcbagTYF4lMlDKDGD_GxA9pViGLnJ-aW_n3TP2f9lqRL-k5GGwb6L_R5g-k2siJcC9egqpj0jv-yGEn6uw7IxgPUeL1RVl9Ps0OwxD5J-w5lSEggb2hYSUKSSC-zqQ6GwU/s1600/Way+to+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Velneshwar Beach" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAP1Eo-Rk-1rcbagTYF4lMlDKDGD_GxA9pViGLnJ-aW_n3TP2f9lqRL-k5GGwb6L_R5g-k2siJcC9egqpj0jv-yGEn6uw7IxgPUeL1RVl9Ps0OwxD5J-w5lSEggb2hYSUKSSC-zqQ6GwU/s640/Way+to+beach.jpg" title="Velneshwar Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Way to the beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">There are many beaches near Guhagar like Budhal Beach
(20 kms), Borya Bunder & Karul (22 kns) and Palshet Beach (13 kms)</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;">Vyadeshwar Temple & Durga Devi
Temple</span></b><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"> – Vyadeshwar
Temple is literally a stone thrown away from the main market of Guhagar. The
temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Guhagar is a treat for temple lovers as it
boasts of many outstanding temples such as Vyadeshwar Temple, Tolekeshwar
Temple, Udaleshwar Temple, Balkeshwar Temple, Ufratya Tondacha Temple and many
more. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2TY359i5AWus_hSqR0ysF-ZahCHEe45QjKv4aCa5jKsRkwtZ9CFNdnW0fZ1wcPvTUYbNFtAz9bCR3UBjsZ0KoDVG0IZPhSFCOWctNOq50fGIK0z10oAs4jNj-0s4C2kqVqMmbL-V8bM/s1600/Vyadeshwar+Temple%252C+Guhagar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vyadeshwar Temple, Guhagar" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="808" height="608" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2TY359i5AWus_hSqR0ysF-ZahCHEe45QjKv4aCa5jKsRkwtZ9CFNdnW0fZ1wcPvTUYbNFtAz9bCR3UBjsZ0KoDVG0IZPhSFCOWctNOq50fGIK0z10oAs4jNj-0s4C2kqVqMmbL-V8bM/s640/Vyadeshwar+Temple%252C+Guhagar.JPG" title="Vyadeshwar Temple, Guhagar" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vyadeshwar Temple, Guhagar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">There is a small shop near Vyadeshwar Temple from where
you can shop for kokam, kokam sharbat, aamla, aam papad, pickles, amba poli,
phanas poli etc. It is the perfect place to pick up famous food delicacies of Konkan.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Other places to
visit near Velneshwar:</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;">Jaigad</span></b><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"> – From Velneshwar, drive to
Tawsal to take a ferry to Jaigad. This is<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>a RORO (roll on/Roll off) ferry and will transfer you along with your
vehicle to Jaigad. Please check out the timings & fare on carferry.in/jaigad-tawsal-2/
Once in Jaigad, explore the Jaigad fort which stands on a cliff overlooking the
Jaigad creek. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;">Ganpatipule</span></b><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"> – is a small town famous for
Swayambhu Ganpati Temple and its pristine Beach. The Ganpati idol is said to
have originated from soil and thus called swayambhu. Unlike the Indian temples
wherein the idol faces east, in this temple the Ganpati idol is facing west and
is said to be guarding the west.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>How to reach Velneshwar?</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Velneshwar is around 300 kms from Mumbai and it should
take around 8-10 hours.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>By
Road</b>: There are three routes to reach Velneshwar from Mumbai:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Via Panvel on NH 17 upto
Chiplun and turn to SH 78 (Chiplun-Guhagar Road) and then reach Velneshwar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Via Khopoli on the expressway –
after the toll take the left turn for Khopoli and from the service route drive
towards Mangaon. From Mangaon – Khed- Mahad- Chiplun. From Chiplun take the SH
78 upto Palshet. At Palshet, take the turn for Velneshwar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjEcajlgY2Ii_SkbI2TOq7_xKI9zMUApEI-Y_dd3la5kQlvnglKtg78VUFRd-YH11IjnfuazVI9gRkwa3tW4Lp32D4Gyj92Xr8X3C6eGNc9ydNrWenDqYDrE65UUwUmQibuJIXO5K0rs/s1600/Enroute+Ferry+Ride.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjEcajlgY2Ii_SkbI2TOq7_xKI9zMUApEI-Y_dd3la5kQlvnglKtg78VUFRd-YH11IjnfuazVI9gRkwa3tW4Lp32D4Gyj92Xr8X3C6eGNc9ydNrWenDqYDrE65UUwUmQibuJIXO5K0rs/s640/Enroute+Ferry+Ride.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Ferry Ride</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; text-indent: -18pt;">Via Dapoli – Travel On NH 17,
cross Karnala Bird Sanctuary – Pen – Wadkhal – Nagothane – Mangaon. Post this
turn right for Goregaon – Mandangad and heading towards Dapoli. From Dapoli
head towards Dabhol which has a ferry service available from Dabhol (20 kms
from Dapoli) to Dhopave. From Dhopave lead the car in ferry boat and cross the
creek to reach Anjanvel. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Velneshwar is
approximately 30 kms from Anjanvel. You can check the ferry timings and fare on
</span><a href="http://carferry.in/dabhol-dhopave/" style="text-indent: -18pt;">http://carferry.in/dabhol-dhopave/</a><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxQQ9z_CsgpUw4wtJHTABgel7LrSBONvGFMBc2NX7ymxO-X0B0lD7RiYNUkdEfO8y9L3-sCa_Xs1dul8fqFCQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>By
Rail</b>: The closest railway station for Velneshwar is Chiplun. From Chiplun, take
a bus or taxi to Velneshwar.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>By
Air</b>: Nearest Airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai which
is around 300 kms from Velneshwar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;">Where to stay?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;">MTDC has a resort at
a distance of around 500 metres from the beach at a slightly higher altitude
with a beautiful view of the sea. MTDC offers stunning view of the sea and is a
nice spot to spend time especially in the evening. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT5ZZW7coEHAYoqimXcmk_huJhUtsdIOXsV4cDz3Y1VDw4piWA7sCj-cANLKUzKW2HkuksSKZP9CW6RB_JPB6FUIqpJXAK-4aGte0is1XO4HeEwe6fZfUhMrVE7Sn5HnOwA_pHwPdCZH0/s1600/View+from+MTDC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="MTDC Velneshwar" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT5ZZW7coEHAYoqimXcmk_huJhUtsdIOXsV4cDz3Y1VDw4piWA7sCj-cANLKUzKW2HkuksSKZP9CW6RB_JPB6FUIqpJXAK-4aGte0is1XO4HeEwe6fZfUhMrVE7Sn5HnOwA_pHwPdCZH0/s640/View+from+MTDC.jpg" title="MTDC Velneshwar" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from MTDC, Velneshwar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; line-height: 115%;">Other resorts in
Velneshwar are Kinara Velneshwar Beach resort, Privilege Resort, Athithi Beach
Resort. All these resorts including MTDC are standard resorts and cater basic
amenities. If you are looking for a luxurious stay, Shantatai in Guhagar is <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>15 kms from Velneshwar</span></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Velaneshwar, Maharashtra 415729, India17.3758516 73.21191317.3606971 73.191743 17.391006100000002 73.232082999999989tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-56241884677646639942019-05-19T23:15:00.000+05:302019-05-19T23:15:32.101+05:30Auli - Paradise on Earth<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYHJjiqEmsuWXtpFx0MKTGrM_nQdcSxxIVw7bf4DX0xQwXcjNkgYjt9sQhNd7Xnw7KS-sovMGLZwKp2HY4xLc49EJuEliC15o2O6Cdq_GgYoR1mJrFfC32GQLHSivVzCt1a_YkqRP_Qw/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYHJjiqEmsuWXtpFx0MKTGrM_nQdcSxxIVw7bf4DX0xQwXcjNkgYjt9sQhNd7Xnw7KS-sovMGLZwKp2HY4xLc49EJuEliC15o2O6Cdq_GgYoR1mJrFfC32GQLHSivVzCt1a_YkqRP_Qw/s640/031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Are
you looking to spend some peaceful days, away from the hustle bustle of city
life? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Heading for the mighty Himalayas?? <br /><br />
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Are you looking for a not so touristy (and less crowds!!) destination – unlike
Manali, Shimla, Nainital. <br /><br />
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Are you looking for a place where you can go for trekking or simple hiking? <br /><br />
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Are you looking for a place where you can enjoy some snow and learn skiing too?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">If
your answer to these questions is yes, then I have a place for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Snuggled
within the grand Himalayas in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, lies the
ultimate ski destination of India, </span><b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Auli</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">.
In literal sense, Auli means “meadows” and is situated at a height of 7500 feet
above sea level. Auli has put India on the world map for skiing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmT9n6zlJFycQWUjGby56kGqIAGM2hxq8xMQJikenzS1Y5uy6ft2u8EKTBc0QPWT-FfnTLmybfaIHWOIdm3v74NSt7Gg7JaYveNTG6RqHxH9EuIQEFA-BLTqWsy0sY6tG6Dh75Y1QJQ0/s1600/123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="GMVN Nanda Devi Eco Tourist Resort" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmT9n6zlJFycQWUjGby56kGqIAGM2hxq8xMQJikenzS1Y5uy6ft2u8EKTBc0QPWT-FfnTLmybfaIHWOIdm3v74NSt7Gg7JaYveNTG6RqHxH9EuIQEFA-BLTqWsy0sY6tG6Dh75Y1QJQ0/s640/123.JPG" title="GMVN Nanda Devi Eco Tourist Resort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GMVN Nanda Devi Eco Tourist Resort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Auli
encompasses spectacular views of the Himalayas which will leave you spell
bound. During winters the entire area is covered with snow and is visited by
skiing and snowboarding enthusiast. During summers this simple town offers lush
greenery and is akin to a hill station - to beat the heat from the plains and an
exciting trekking experience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
visited Auli in the first week of March which was the perfect time to explore the
place in all its glory. During our visit, Auli, the surrounding areas were
covered with a thick blanket of snow and the sky was clear too - giving us the
opportunity to witness and enjoy the scintillating Himalayan Peaks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">During
our stay we witnessed snowfall a couple of times. We were lucky to experience
the two aspects of Auli – the clear weather because of which we were able to
witness the snow covered mountains all around and the snowfall which is an
experience in its own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Things to experience in Auli<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Skiing in Snow<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Auli
is the skiing destination in India. So when in Auli, get ready for skiing. See
how beautifully the slopes of the Himalayas are covered in glittering snow.
Professional guides and equipments required for skiing are easily available on
rent. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYDqHdzHaBr6qvn63UK8n0GJptT4NcWRcQYCrCjs0CHy94ge_9hyphenhyphenBu2WgXlzVskIQj6qbRulsEH4wUOeGX0DkRdlt4wvDKExO441yRKdA8FuxdSjLKrvGY-v8vZMdHq8R77Ml3GosEHyg/s1600/071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Auli Ski Track" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYDqHdzHaBr6qvn63UK8n0GJptT4NcWRcQYCrCjs0CHy94ge_9hyphenhyphenBu2WgXlzVskIQj6qbRulsEH4wUOeGX0DkRdlt4wvDKExO441yRKdA8FuxdSjLKrvGY-v8vZMdHq8R77Ml3GosEHyg/s640/071.JPG" title="Auli Ski Track" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Auli Ski Track</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Auli
skiing slopes vary from 400 m to 4 kms and if you really want to learn skiing,
you can join the 15 days or a 1 month training program run by GMVN.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Longest & 2<sup>nd</sup>
Highest Ropeway<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Auli
is connected to Joshimath (base point) through ropeway which is the longest (4
kms) and the 2nd highest ropeway in Asia. The highest Ropeway is in Gulmarg,
Kashmir and is 5 kms long!! The ropeway is run by GMVN and cost Rs 700 per
person for a return journey. You can also try the cable lift which cost Rs 300
per person and offers a spectacular view of the Himalayas.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2u6x0rHK98Vle1MORdCdffucmkxOgWprDszjjOeDZe_yOAKghJdA56feNZVnY7EFugnJxm66rFbmpuoYs9SkZj7riuFky_48f18_aKRMV3c4oAuPEOHZPlJFPxxOSNFYy4rGNsfT6qew/s1600/135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Ropeway" border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="1024" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2u6x0rHK98Vle1MORdCdffucmkxOgWprDszjjOeDZe_yOAKghJdA56feNZVnY7EFugnJxm66rFbmpuoYs9SkZj7riuFky_48f18_aKRMV3c4oAuPEOHZPlJFPxxOSNFYy4rGNsfT6qew/s640/135.JPG" title="The Ropeway" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Ropeway</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">When
we took the cable ride, it left us speechless with the calmness (not a whisper
expect for the wind whistling past) and dazzling snow covered slopes.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Highest Manmade Lake<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Auli
has the highest manmade lake in the world which was created to produce
synthetic artificial snow in skiing season in case of scanty snowfall.
Sometimes in snow if there are lot of tourist in Auli, the operators produce
artificial snow for tourist delight. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoDPi7Df1uA22fTv7NJFHbcAsU_XxopaiRgO5o7lhYxvWtXzfC7pxdCqCtHSajIGq2ZjhGNVREqIMi2ZLfCqmj412454btF-AFNV3HiU7bp3gqXvGrMjg1k25V3bD7m62DrQv7kkkkOY/s1600/20190303_124726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Highest Manmade Lake" border="0" data-original-height="703" data-original-width="1024" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoDPi7Df1uA22fTv7NJFHbcAsU_XxopaiRgO5o7lhYxvWtXzfC7pxdCqCtHSajIGq2ZjhGNVREqIMi2ZLfCqmj412454btF-AFNV3HiU7bp3gqXvGrMjg1k25V3bD7m62DrQv7kkkkOY/s640/20190303_124726.jpg" title="Highest Manmade Lake" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highest Manmade Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">During
our visit the artificial lake was covered with snow as you can see in the
picture. The mesmerizing frozen lake set against the backdrop of Nanda Devi
peak is a must visit.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">360 degree view of Himalayas<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCmD6kMJVGxAePj3gZycaijYDJQOVJBJDRFSImxZwsOsgeXkKk4hWI88riRqpGrgdvQhKje-QTvSorCdzJ___Ac4gb_dCd4w2QcHXNcuj9vxZSYMvLL1RoGMGY-cs3OJNHHGQqWAMB58/s1600/IMG_20190303_073325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Himalayas in Auli" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCmD6kMJVGxAePj3gZycaijYDJQOVJBJDRFSImxZwsOsgeXkKk4hWI88riRqpGrgdvQhKje-QTvSorCdzJ___Ac4gb_dCd4w2QcHXNcuj9vxZSYMvLL1RoGMGY-cs3OJNHHGQqWAMB58/s640/IMG_20190303_073325.jpg" title="Himalayas in Auli" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wake up view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">Auli
provides the 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayas. In fact if you arrive
at night, the morning view from your room is quite fascinating and touches you
to the core. During the winters the mountains are covered with thick white
blanket of snow which can make a beautiful postcard pic. Auli boasts of some of
the majestic Himalayan mountain ranges like the very famous Nanda Devi Peak,
Kamet Kamat, Trishul Peak, Maha Parbat.
The snow covered mountains left us speechless and instil a sense of calm
and serenity.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Trekking<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">There
are many trekking routes in and around Auli. So for trek lovers and hikers Auli
is the place to be. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Here is a list of trekking routes:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Trek
to Gurso Bugyal (3 kms)<br />
Trek to sweet water Chattrakund Lake (4 kms)<br />
Hiking to Kwani Bugyal via Gurso Bugyal (13 kms)<br />
Trek to Kuari Pass (20 Kms)<br />
Nanda Devi National Park trek from Joshimath/Auli (Difficult)<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">A cup of coffee & maggi at
the top</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Enjoy
piping hot maggi and a cup of strong coffee at the top amidst snow covered
slopes as the backdrop and the mighty Himalayas at the front. There is a small stall
just at the exit of the cable car lift center in upper Auli. Don’t miss on the
delicious maggi and the absolutely delicious coffee that he has to offer.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QU-k0DYnlhMMkPzQNGT1jo5FtLFk3NDdBt4D0a4t6nkSkyQSxs5Swe246rfUDVvk1c1cCUOXbQTMMuGxL6-aSAnVZqq5zOZiOh00I2KlhORztj1GmYSQ43XG5AyOwwy29nRz5ontJQ4/s1600/132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QU-k0DYnlhMMkPzQNGT1jo5FtLFk3NDdBt4D0a4t6nkSkyQSxs5Swe246rfUDVvk1c1cCUOXbQTMMuGxL6-aSAnVZqq5zOZiOh00I2KlhORztj1GmYSQ43XG5AyOwwy29nRz5ontJQ4/s640/132.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">We
had stayed in the GMVN Ski Resort and the restaurant in the resort offer good
food. The resort also has a bar so you can keep yourself warm in the late
evening with a drink.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Other activities In Auli</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Other
than the activities mentioned above you can also do the following:</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif; text-indent: 0px;">
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Camping
under the million of star filled sky</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Riding
ATV Bikes on the slopes of Auli</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Explore
Joshimath</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Go
to Hemkund Sahib and Badrinath</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Auli Ropeway Details</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
ropeway in Auli boasts of being the longest and the 2<sup>nd</sup> highest
ropeway in Asia with a total stretch of 4.15 Kms which it covers in 22 minutes.
The cart can accommodate 25 people in one go and the tariff is Rs 750 per
person for a return journey. Kids above the age of 5 years are charged full
ticket.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5YOaxUEHl2VTRTD1DGIcrsAr_ieQUdqcZof-iEyk4-EiljapWOHzi67xKePWWDMuRXCaZFEEZRhovBOY_4qvY2i-8k3XTybJwKgUhsUMxHPaidABKiq8YGNwk2dBR4DvbdBN5XpBFgM/s1600/080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5YOaxUEHl2VTRTD1DGIcrsAr_ieQUdqcZof-iEyk4-EiljapWOHzi67xKePWWDMuRXCaZFEEZRhovBOY_4qvY2i-8k3XTybJwKgUhsUMxHPaidABKiq8YGNwk2dBR4DvbdBN5XpBFgM/s640/080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">You
can also opt for taking a chairlift (800 m in Rs 300 per person for a return
journey) or a ski lift (500m) if you want a shorter ride. Both of them offer
stunning views of the mighty Himalayas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Timing
for the ropeway from Joshimath:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Summers
– 8:00 am to 5:10 pm<br />
Winters – 9:15 am to 4:20 pm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">How to reach Auli<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">By Air:</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> Jolly Grant Airport in
Dehradun is the nearest Airport. From there you have to travel by road (Taxi or
Bus) and the distance is approximately 290 Kms. It takes 12 hours to cover this
distance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">By Train:</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> The nearest railway station is
Rishikesh and from there again you have to travel by road. Rishikesh to Auli is
around 250 Kms. You can also take a train to Haridwar or Dehradun and then
travel to Auli by road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">By Road:</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> Joshimath is the base point
for Auli and is well connected from major cities like Delhi, Haridwar,
Dehradun. From Joshimath there are two ways you can reach lower Auli – either
take the very famous ropeway (which can drop you at lower Auli and upper Auli
both) or go by road. The road will be closed if it had snowed heavily. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Upper
Auli cannot be reached by road. You have to either take the ropeway or trek up.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Best time to visit Auli<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
best time to visit Auli depends on what you are looking for in your vacation.
If you want to enjoy snow, try skiing then plan your visit anytime between November
and March. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">If
you are looking for a respite from the scorching heat in the plains, April to
June is the perfect time to visit Auli. In summers, the weather is clear and
you can enjoy clear view of the Himalayan Peaks and treks in the lush green surrounding
areas.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGokojEOZReKmoEyegtWbx9KKMlFU2c-D4NLnDlcnUFQk27VkM4yXS0Hj_rKzNeAOovO7iADjDYIGMVzeHHn7jGsY6uGA4_xdKGYcUoutgQit7xXOpMRpEY-hn4JJ1Gnm-RZDoo5RfaY/s1600/IMG_20190303_073445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="GMVN Resort in Lower Auli" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGokojEOZReKmoEyegtWbx9KKMlFU2c-D4NLnDlcnUFQk27VkM4yXS0Hj_rKzNeAOovO7iADjDYIGMVzeHHn7jGsY6uGA4_xdKGYcUoutgQit7xXOpMRpEY-hn4JJ1Gnm-RZDoo5RfaY/s640/IMG_20190303_073445.jpg" title="GMVN Resort in Lower Auli" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GMVN Resort in Lower Auli</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The
monsoon in the region starts from July and scanty rains continue till October.
This is the period where I will request you to </span><i style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><u>avoid travelling in the Hills</u></i><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> due to increased risk of
accidents and landslides.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Where to stay in Auli<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Auli
has not been commercialised yet and thus have few stay options – Cliff Top
Club, Himalayan Ecolodge and Garhwal Government (GMVN) run accommodation. GMVN
has two stay options in Auli namely, GMVN Auli Ski Resort (Lower Auli) and GMVN
Nanda Devi Eco Tourist Rersort (Upper Auli)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRQ0vKK_II8Q_KSd1ODpBC-DD7BP0AsMK4uE3qKfp4gNnH3V0KVFP9XVicpgA0J32DhfY68jPCU4bL_-DRDSXrtkSIQHwRxZt4IUpcwfgFwPrUANUV3ALON2j9H7mqtlc_8elKDtnBkTY/s1600/039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRQ0vKK_II8Q_KSd1ODpBC-DD7BP0AsMK4uE3qKfp4gNnH3V0KVFP9XVicpgA0J32DhfY68jPCU4bL_-DRDSXrtkSIQHwRxZt4IUpcwfgFwPrUANUV3ALON2j9H7mqtlc_8elKDtnBkTY/s640/039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">All
these options are comparatively expensive, the most economical being GMVN
Tourist Guest House which can be booked online through their website </span><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><a href="http://gmvnl.in/">http://gmvnl.in/</a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">If
you want a cheaper stay options you can stay at Joshimath which has a plethora
of budget stay options and visit Auli on day tour. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Some Tips:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Accommodation
in GMVN is highly recommended. Book your stay early using the GMVN website as
the resort. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">In
GMVN Auli you can contact Mr. Kamal Kishore – 9568006629 for all your queries.
He is a jovial person and will assist you. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">No
matter what the season always keep some woollen clothes with you. If you are
visiting in winters the temperature easily goes below zero so be adequately
prepared.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
had travelled by Nanda Devi Express (Train No. 12205) from New Delhi to
Haridwar and then booked an Innova to take us to Auli. The train departs from
New Delhi at 23:50 and reaches Hridwar at 03:52. While coming back we again took
Nanda Devi Express (Train No. 12206) from Haridwar at 23:30 and reached New
Delhi at 05:20</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
had booked Innova from Haridwar to Joshimath and return with Car Rental In
Haridwar. You can check the website on </span><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><a href="http://www.carrentalinharidwar.com/">www.carrentalinharidwar.com</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">During
your drive to Joshimath you will cross the four prayags (sacred river confluence
as per Hindu religion) out of the five prayags – Nanda Prayag, Karn Prayag,
Rudraprayag and DevPrayag. The fifth prayag i.e. Vishnu Prayag is a short drive
away from Joshimath, if you have time please stop over at the prayags and enjoy
the sacred convergence.</span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNp5Uhpgr-8CbYe61Hs3kiFs-SlA4CH6HZdSHk2zmeXGwZaMeQ7x7VNepfjbzgRfNwyBLT9Lcc5CKNlLulObTq3mH8v66TEX6MgvQdZ5vA90jZaWh9iYCIl-YAsvCA_2iHCYFPD3if5gE/s1600/IMG_20190304_091809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNp5Uhpgr-8CbYe61Hs3kiFs-SlA4CH6HZdSHk2zmeXGwZaMeQ7x7VNepfjbzgRfNwyBLT9Lcc5CKNlLulObTq3mH8v66TEX6MgvQdZ5vA90jZaWh9iYCIl-YAsvCA_2iHCYFPD3if5gE/s640/IMG_20190304_091809.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The day after - Icicles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">We
did our entire trip from Mumbai – Delhi – Haridwar – Auli and back in four
days. The fifth early morning we took a flight back from New Delhi to Mumbai
and were in our respective offices in the morning. Ours was a very packed trip
which is not recommended. We were in Auli for only one day which is a very
short time.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO1mAy1rqYmw6aKvIerS5SqUIRvc7VQW_GyRCH5EtdcN4IqQq9epcuXGXxZVI8hvv-D84LICKuoQ2doOs3UyoIZ1QiHmbhlMpLIIJrfYRS7JTnyr-5v-6fhzB176-dGO2RXDtBs-QIqPE/s1600/IMG_20190304_111410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO1mAy1rqYmw6aKvIerS5SqUIRvc7VQW_GyRCH5EtdcN4IqQq9epcuXGXxZVI8hvv-D84LICKuoQ2doOs3UyoIZ1QiHmbhlMpLIIJrfYRS7JTnyr-5v-6fhzB176-dGO2RXDtBs-QIqPE/s640/IMG_20190304_111410.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally a dash of colour</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">It is
recommended to stay in Auli for 3-4 days to enjoy its calmness and serenity. I
know that one day in Auli was worth the entire effort m</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack" style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;"></a><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">ade
to reach there. We all have promised ourselves that we will come to Auli again
with more time in hand because we all have fallen in love with Auli. I would
highly recommended to visit in Auli because then you will get to see the snow
covered slopes, Winter clouds and enjoy the beauty that the colour white (snow)
holds. It will awaken your spirit and snow and you will never even realise when
you have fallen in love with Auli.</span><br />
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Govt. Tourist Complex, Auli, Joshimath, Uttarakhand 246443, India30.5377618 79.5649647000000195.0157272999999982 38.256370700000019 56.0597963 120.87355870000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-78284942454917258612019-02-20T21:06:00.004+05:302019-02-20T21:06:39.129+05:30Nashik & Trimbakeshwar - A rich Wine of Mythology<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg91bWzRjU06o9Kfj3vSDEkOyvLpmcvJvPz-a9iRcuAspweDATn2mei4M2ra0FtEsJLyB8Tz8HBoxE-CJEICvn1hABF4BpqSjA54pl7dbjp5tnmoIhGsWVei1ELuQKZA9ootDDPuKY8CJ0/s1600/Brahmagiri+Hills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Brahmagiri" border="0" data-original-height="703" data-original-width="1024" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg91bWzRjU06o9Kfj3vSDEkOyvLpmcvJvPz-a9iRcuAspweDATn2mei4M2ra0FtEsJLyB8Tz8HBoxE-CJEICvn1hABF4BpqSjA54pl7dbjp5tnmoIhGsWVei1ELuQKZA9ootDDPuKY8CJ0/s640/Brahmagiri+Hills.jpg" title="Brahmagiri" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brahmagiri</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Nashik,
a four hour beautiful drive from Mumbai is a city which has made a mark on the
tourist map for a lot of reasons, namely:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">It is one amongst
the four destinations which hosts the largest religious congregation globally –
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Kumbh Mela.</b></span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Nashik boasts of
having one of the twelve <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Jyotirlingas</b>
as the famous temple of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Trimbakeshwar</b>.
</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Ramayana, one of the
most loved epics in India, had a backdrop of Panchavati. This very own <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Panchavati</b> is in Nashik.</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The Currency Note
Press and the India Security Press are located in Nashik. The Indian Currency
and the Government stamp papers are printed in Nashik.</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Another star which
has been recently added in the name of Nashik is the wineries located in this
area. It is the Nappa Valley of India, with the most famous brand <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sula Wines</b> located in Nashik. </span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Nashik is also host
of annual wine fest – <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">SulaFest.</b></span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Nashik has a unique
Coin Musuem.</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The origin of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">River Godavari</b> is in Nashik.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Nashik has been in our list of
places to visit for a long time. Finally last weekend we were able to knock it
off our list. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ascii-font-family: "Palatino Linotype"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Palatino Linotype"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br />
Popular Religious/Mythological Sites:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Trimbakeshwar Temple </span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Ramkund</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Kalaram Temple</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Muktidham Temple</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Sundarnarayan Temple</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Sita Gumpha</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Someshwar Temple</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Brahmagiri – Origin of River
Godavari</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Most
of the religious places do not allow photography and videography.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2foL5F2SYEspWnaQu3SLYR7fWuEhS9RDJqYM6xsQm0603src-QHBZxDr53rhHMZyCE6fMwUvsmOXyVPVxeTGrbzUkTj5TE-4W6pf2g8F_-BRFjhZHUcyy98A5kUGsbCH2DcqTV7ShBM/s1600/Nashik+City.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nashik City" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2foL5F2SYEspWnaQu3SLYR7fWuEhS9RDJqYM6xsQm0603src-QHBZxDr53rhHMZyCE6fMwUvsmOXyVPVxeTGrbzUkTj5TE-4W6pf2g8F_-BRFjhZHUcyy98A5kUGsbCH2DcqTV7ShBM/s640/Nashik+City.jpg" title="Nashik City" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nashik City</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The Kumbh Mela</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">As per the Hindu Mythology, the
Devas (Gods) and the Asuras (Demons) fought over the amrita, the elixir of
immortality produced by the joint churning of the ocean. During the fight for
the elixir between the Devas (Gods) and the Asuras (Demons), the drop of the
elixir are believed to had fallen at four earthy sites. At these four places
the Kumbh Mela is celebrated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The Kumbh Mela is celebrated
four times over the span of twelve years between four pilgrimage places on four
sacred rivers – Haridwar on River Ganga, Godavari in Nashik, Ujjain on River
Shipra, Prayagraj over the confluence of River Ganga, River Yamuna and River Saraswati.
It is believed during the Kumbh Mela the planets are in such an auspicious
position, that the river turns into the elixir and a dip in the sacred river
will bring in purity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Ramayana Trail<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Nashik is the place where a
major part of the Hindu epic, Ramayana was played out. It is believed that Rama, Lakshman
and Sita stayed here during their 14 years of exile from Ayodhya. It is also
believed to be the place where that the sister of Ravana, Surpanakha was attracted
to Rama. To teach her a lesson, Lakshman cut her nose, thus giving this place
the name – <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Nasika</i> – meaning nose.
This is the place where Ravana mesmerized with the beauty of Sita, abducted her
which led to the war between Rama and Ravana as told in Ramayana. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">During our visit our first stop
was Panchavati, this is where Ram Kund is located. Located in Panchavati is the
very famous temple of Nashik – the Kala Ram Temple. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxbUqRTJyl4q859f6eUbrINmWJ4F8GnA3jEt6ctZY7rSz1_6gB_pE1WvxUSYZBFw9_GVIhjrAj_C3Bqm83WsjFv9xdLmb3iP9bWwqQtZ3inT6OwXnwtXvEGZgH_VyD5GfGTa1ApoUr5o/s1600/Sadhu+in+a+small+temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nashik Temple" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxbUqRTJyl4q859f6eUbrINmWJ4F8GnA3jEt6ctZY7rSz1_6gB_pE1WvxUSYZBFw9_GVIhjrAj_C3Bqm83WsjFv9xdLmb3iP9bWwqQtZ3inT6OwXnwtXvEGZgH_VyD5GfGTa1ApoUr5o/s640/Sadhu+in+a+small+temple.JPG" title="Nashik Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the numerous temple in Nashik</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The temple got its name from
the black stone statue of Lord Ram in this temple.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Very near to this temple is
Sita Gumpha or Sita Caves. Walking distance from Sita Gumpha is Tapovan, which
is believed to be the place for meditationand Lakshman Bridge which is as per
local belief is the Lakshman Rekha or the line which Lakshman has drawn to
protect Sita.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Trimbakeshwar Temple<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">One amongst the twelve Jotirlingas,
Trimbakeshwar is one of the holiest places in India and is located around 30
kms from Nashik. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The temple is beautifully built
with black stone with Brahmagiri Hills as the backdrop. Unlike other temples,
the sanctum is deep and therefore a mirror is placed above it, so that the
devotees can have a clear view of the linga. The lingam in this temple has
three faces – signifying Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7V1a0bHg1lnyqgPR68fRl6FBEwtJxTSXV8Z3maKBIDBSlbrs_LWk2m1pAtMWaMUwvAHSEkJgk_auaxBNssIBjnkubKAfAXnYPGkIwhSnc0LysBS2cLpDripFMpTmYCb1i3Mod9yqlaw/s1600/Trimbakeshwar+Temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Trimbakeshwar Temple" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7V1a0bHg1lnyqgPR68fRl6FBEwtJxTSXV8Z3maKBIDBSlbrs_LWk2m1pAtMWaMUwvAHSEkJgk_auaxBNssIBjnkubKAfAXnYPGkIwhSnc0LysBS2cLpDripFMpTmYCb1i3Mod9yqlaw/s640/Trimbakeshwar+Temple.jpg" title="Trimbakeshwar Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trimbakeshwar Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Early morning is the best time
to visit the temple. As the day progresses the crowd increases and you might
have to stand in queue for hours. The timing of the temple is 5:30 am to 9:00
pm. Every Monday from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm the crown of the Lord is taken out on
a procession to the kund.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Please note mobile phones are
not allowed inside the temple. If you don’t want to leave the mobile phone in
your hotel room or car, the shops near the temple have mobile locker
facilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a shoe stand on the
left hand side of the temple entrance gate. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">There are plenty of hotels and
dharamshalas near the Trimbakeshwar Temple. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The Pandavleni Caves<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-TE91RpkhSO84deGnuyIBz9CzcdpXA2jsBzNr2RXQPEvxKFxOb1kfo4VO-cx349NbHVuqyEKc-E343uhky78c2zVi2WE52NuQPmU8D2rLxfd3hOnAYyPB_OsAbeNWB6dOtSi1U5pAQM/s1600/Pandavleni_Caves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pandavleni Caves" border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1024" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-TE91RpkhSO84deGnuyIBz9CzcdpXA2jsBzNr2RXQPEvxKFxOb1kfo4VO-cx349NbHVuqyEKc-E343uhky78c2zVi2WE52NuQPmU8D2rLxfd3hOnAYyPB_OsAbeNWB6dOtSi1U5pAQM/s640/Pandavleni_Caves.jpg" title="Pandavleni Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pandavleni Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">A group of 24 Buddhist around
2000 year’s old caves is situated atop a hill in the middle of Nashik. Around
200 steps climb and you can feast your eyes with the panoramic view of the
City. These caves are not as grand as the caves of Ajanta Ellora in Aurangabad
but if you have time then do make a visit.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Gangadwar<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After our visit to
Trimbakeshwar, we decided to climb around 800 steps and visit the Gangadwar. Gangadwar
is the place where River Godavari originates from the Hills. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhPuQmeqzcR8rly_YyhDTpF18XccBfolzGWKTlDYgcHvv_X2U3fHHxkLyxni78LN-x0UjSr0JUk7iYN3mn1DoiuZF_TutTI-XbVLSoOCxfzNx_49roKglgUOLRDOFUKvsgebY-dwjO8Q/s1600/View+during+trek+to+Gangadhar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View from Gangadwar" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhPuQmeqzcR8rly_YyhDTpF18XccBfolzGWKTlDYgcHvv_X2U3fHHxkLyxni78LN-x0UjSr0JUk7iYN3mn1DoiuZF_TutTI-XbVLSoOCxfzNx_49roKglgUOLRDOFUKvsgebY-dwjO8Q/s640/View+during+trek+to+Gangadhar.jpg" title="View from Gangadwar" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View - Trek to Gangadwar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">There is a temple
of Maa Godavari and at her feet is a stone in the shape of cow’s head through
which River Godavari water is flowing drop by drop.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_wDevXjjbug3tFMw5LG4RumeCutxbV0tVI3E9fUn0ut8Di_1m3YRxKpq5EUV3ukApitZOW8VoaSH9NCFo0uPhpA6Yi9XEl-3fw59Q4ALYImJmQaEuhICuxnWhAYc2rxOADR8-kzH8Bls/s1600/River+Godavari+Origin.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Gangadwar -River Godavari origin" border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_wDevXjjbug3tFMw5LG4RumeCutxbV0tVI3E9fUn0ut8Di_1m3YRxKpq5EUV3ukApitZOW8VoaSH9NCFo0uPhpA6Yi9XEl-3fw59Q4ALYImJmQaEuhICuxnWhAYc2rxOADR8-kzH8Bls/s640/River+Godavari+Origin.mp4" title="Gangadwar -River Godavari origin" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Godavari origin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The short and sweet story of
the origin of River Godavari goes like this – Rishi Gautama and his wife Ahilya
used to stay in this area. A cow was accidentally killed by Rishi Gautama. To become
free from the sin of killing a cow (gao hatya) he was asked to take a dip in
the sacred water of River Ganga. Rishi Gautama and wife Ahilya meditated
(tapasya) for years in the name of Lord Shiva to send the River Ganga on earth.
After years of mediation Lord Shiva relented and thus River Godavari originated
from Brahmagiri Hills. Rishi Gautama took a dip in River Godavari and was
released from the sin of killing the cow.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The view from Gangadwar is a
site to see.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uhh_mJ-JGdDiWVYqXCrY80sgv4WLglsYJnXIgND_ELmoiwBlYnRCu-KzBn1R3paSNwfSOKZFzFUr8taQCsFBL5OGxS9PlWFHXjuOyKlM4DoBFwQcc8RK_PRAebvJRLpqYruoZxWCmiI/s1600/Gangadwar+-+108+shivlingas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="108 Shivlingas" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2uhh_mJ-JGdDiWVYqXCrY80sgv4WLglsYJnXIgND_ELmoiwBlYnRCu-KzBn1R3paSNwfSOKZFzFUr8taQCsFBL5OGxS9PlWFHXjuOyKlM4DoBFwQcc8RK_PRAebvJRLpqYruoZxWCmiI/s640/Gangadwar+-+108+shivlingas.jpg" title="108 Shivlingas" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">108 Shivlingas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Near the Gangadwar is a small
temple/cave where there are 108 shivlingas. This is the cave where Maharishi
Gautama worshipped Lord Shiva.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Wine Tourism<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Nashik has now become the
little gem for Wine lovers. Nashik is our very own Napa valley. An entrepreneur
Rajeev Samant, set up a small vineyard on few acres of family land. From a few
acres it has now become synonyms with Indian Wines – Sula Wines. The Sula
vineyards now provide wine tours and wine tasting.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbcgTjgaOEEOtsC58ov6xEsRSGO3KrOku2w4QeuFr0X5wAY9_ihWIx-q0DgVodEQS6vx4MasJzT4I7PGCSmzzQuWz6aITMO7nDsENwicSEmKyvvhXAp76gQDIR0ke2NX1B4I-4aPBwzo/s1600/Sula+Vineyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sula Vineyard" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbcgTjgaOEEOtsC58ov6xEsRSGO3KrOku2w4QeuFr0X5wAY9_ihWIx-q0DgVodEQS6vx4MasJzT4I7PGCSmzzQuWz6aITMO7nDsENwicSEmKyvvhXAp76gQDIR0ke2NX1B4I-4aPBwzo/s640/Sula+Vineyard.jpg" title="Sula Vineyard" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sula Vineyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The entry fee in Sula Vineyard is Rs 200 per person which can be redeem against any purchase or tour taken in the vineyard. The wine making tour costs Rs 150 per person and wine tasting (6 wines to taste) Rs 400 per peron. Once you complete your wine
tour, take your pick from the dining options - Little Italy (Italian Food)
& Rasa (Indian Food).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSMFCWjc5tRbfkyi55rUJsKgloBAdiITilWuQh6ia8PmzRa_3ZPWKt9JuGKi4kXb480RqmJZ2285hwOUmzsE32Vzc3y9nn11xZKOXgrpseqk8xUFligmqpVIYfijoFHiSxAla9SSK4ow/s1600/Winery-Shop-at-Sula-Vineyards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wine shop in Sula Vineyard" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSMFCWjc5tRbfkyi55rUJsKgloBAdiITilWuQh6ia8PmzRa_3ZPWKt9JuGKi4kXb480RqmJZ2285hwOUmzsE32Vzc3y9nn11xZKOXgrpseqk8xUFligmqpVIYfijoFHiSxAla9SSK4ow/s640/Winery-Shop-at-Sula-Vineyards.jpg" title="Wine shop in Sula Vineyard" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lets shop Wine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Sula Vineyards also has two
luxury resort called ‘The Source”& Beyond” wherein you can enjoy the
calmness in comfort. The prime moto of the resorts are – Relax. Unwind.
Rejuvenate.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Other
places to visit in Nashik:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Someshwar
Waterfall</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">
– A quick visit to Someshwar waterfall in this trip told us that this will be a
beautiful place in the monsoons and should be a must visit in the rainy season.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Gangapur
Dam</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">
– Not very far from the Someshwar Waterfall, lies Gangapur Lake & Dam. We
stopped over at this place but were not given entry as permission from the
Department of Irrigation is required.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Trek
to Brahmagiri</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">
– We have decided to do this trek in the monsoon this year when the weather
will be pleasant and the mountains will be green and serene.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Coin
Museum</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">
– Another place to visit on our next trip to Nashik is the coin Museum. It is
closed on Sunday.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Anjaneri
Fort</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">
– It is believed to be the birth place of Lord Hanuman. A 2 kms drive from the
highway and around a 5 kms trek will take you to Anjaneri Fort. This is one
place that’s on our list to visit on our next visit to Nashik.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">How to reach Nashik<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>By
Road:</b> Regular buses ply from Mumbai and Aurangabad. The roads are good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>By
Rail:</b> Nearest railway station is Nashik Road and is well connected to major
cities in India like Mumbai, Aurangabad, Bhopal, Delhi etc.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>By
Air:</b> Closest airport is in Mumbai which is approx 200 kms far.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Nashik, Maharashtra, India19.9974533 73.78980230000001919.758702800000002 73.467078800000024 20.2362038 74.112525800000014tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-71927070982074103052019-02-09T12:00:00.002+05:302019-02-15T17:20:46.882+05:30Touring the Calm Forts and Buzzing Bazaars of Sion<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32Zhs62U8AksU4WCvE45ZoB2W5aG_lO4aIiNva7R5RLE1JgTtYxMzIUXYmL8MX8WSNziEyQn2S4B32nXoWtc4PjYhdvYzeKO72PKFbx3rCh47fZy1ZdBru9v-0A6jiKh94l_GbyZVh6I/s1600/Sion+Fort+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sion Fort" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32Zhs62U8AksU4WCvE45ZoB2W5aG_lO4aIiNva7R5RLE1JgTtYxMzIUXYmL8MX8WSNziEyQn2S4B32nXoWtc4PjYhdvYzeKO72PKFbx3rCh47fZy1ZdBru9v-0A6jiKh94l_GbyZVh6I/s640/Sion+Fort+I.jpg" title="Sion Fort" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sion Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Last within the limits of
Bombay City and Island, Sion has seen many a ruler come and go, before India
became independent. It saw the rule of the Sultans of Gujarat, followed by the
Portuguese (around 16</span><sup style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> Century) and finally the British.</span><br>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Today situated in the heart of
Mumbai, it acts as an access point to Western and the Central suburbs and to
Navi Mumbai. From Churches to temples, forts to Buzzing Bazaar, hospitals to
cultural centres, refugee camps to planned township, Sion has it all.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Sahapedia has come up with
Indian Heritage Walk Festival which they are celebrating throughout the month
of February. In totality they will be conducting numerous walks in more than 40 cities in India.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">I
attended the heritage walk in Sion which was held on February 3, 2019, 9:00 AM
– 11:30 AM and was led by Ashwini Nawathe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">When
you travel on the central line of the local railways in Mumbai, we have all
heard – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">“Pudhil Station Sheev, <br>
Agala Station Sion, <br>
Next Station Sion”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">But
how many of us know what Sion means? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Sheev as Sion is popularly
known in Marathi means <u>limit or boundary</u>. Back in the 17<sup>th</sup>
Century Sion formed the boundary between the Mumbai Island and the Salsette
Island (Thane). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Seven Islands of Bombay<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Back in the 16<sup>th</sup>
Century and earlier, Bombay was a cluster of Seven Islands which were a part of
the Silhara Dynasty and the Sultan of Gujarat. These islands were then captured
by the Portuguese around the 16<sup>th</sup> Century which were later handed
over to the British as a part of the dowry of Catherine of Braganza (from
Portugal) when she married Charles II in 1661. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The islands handed over to the
British were:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Isle
of Bombay</li>
<li>Colaba</li>
<li>Old Woman’s Island (Little Colaba)</li>
<li>Mahim</li>
<li>Mazagaon</li>
<li>Parel</li>
<li>Worli</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpi2NOL2zrmInjuWan3GX2GV476q1M4D8bqMphD_t4vBUzE3fLWyiWevuiGc-43sPgD0KHZUQlZKrNnZM_WjpifKv8SqFZR090R2Ny4XT2f8l-l3YDCb-ZR52r1dB8zjXfkLstMVjahTQ/s1600/Seven_Islands_of_Bombay.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Seven Islands of Bombay" border="0" data-original-height="1372" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpi2NOL2zrmInjuWan3GX2GV476q1M4D8bqMphD_t4vBUzE3fLWyiWevuiGc-43sPgD0KHZUQlZKrNnZM_WjpifKv8SqFZR090R2Ny4XT2f8l-l3YDCb-ZR52r1dB8zjXfkLstMVjahTQ/s640/Seven_Islands_of_Bombay.png" title="Seven Islands of Bombay" width="372"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seven Islands of Bombay PC - Wikipedia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">After acquiring the islands as
dowry, Charles II rented the islands to East India Company. By 1845, the
islands had been merged through various land reclamation projects.</span></div>
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<br></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Heritage Walk<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We all met our walk leader Ms.
Ashwini Nawathe near the ticket counter of the Sion railway Station. Our first
stop was to “Our Lady of Good Counsel Church” which is just next to the Sion
Railway Station. Our Lady of Good Counsel Church is one of the oldest churches
in Bombay. Initially it was a chapel and was affiliated to the St. Michael’s
Church at Mahim. The chapel was separated from Mahim and was entrusted to the
Franciscans. The chapel was then converted into a Church.<o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNTDV213EZxWPfV3_-0eM2NEERRXTZyMYNx96t6JGjSLTiYSOb5KsIwPrTvbjNTRxk9hmGkAix-jjIYm9IivTK5nCHXZIqxxd1lj8b1ZE3ECVsdOfQlaoSmM3tvjXuNUEgbJJbhbLtP8/s1600/Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Our Lady of Good Counsel Church" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNTDV213EZxWPfV3_-0eM2NEERRXTZyMYNx96t6JGjSLTiYSOb5KsIwPrTvbjNTRxk9hmGkAix-jjIYm9IivTK5nCHXZIqxxd1lj8b1ZE3ECVsdOfQlaoSmM3tvjXuNUEgbJJbhbLtP8/s640/Church.jpg" title="Our Lady of Good Counsel Church" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Lady of Good Counsel Church</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The church also houses a
convent co-ed school which is more than 100 years old. On your visit to the
church, don’t miss the beautiful stained glass windows of the church.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Next came the up-hill walk just
next to the ayurvedic hospital in Sion. Here on the uphill you can see watch
towers which were made for fortifying the northern frontier of Bombay. In order
to fortify Bombay various forts were made namely – Worli Fort, Mahim Fort,
Bandra Fort, Dharavi Fort (Kalla Killa), Sion Fort & Sewri Fort. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsJfMD3keo7sJuLOCppUQhk3wphERh7st1M1EmAtXngib6AlYJRe-V9PrEcDiT4vj6CrFsctAzI1wFj1CsbIcUlbuMi4LC_snjH0quyjNNVoGr1Uaf7bfIQjekXiWDv_tgsqZ24FQtgY/s1600/uphill+climb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Uphill Walk in Sion" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsJfMD3keo7sJuLOCppUQhk3wphERh7st1M1EmAtXngib6AlYJRe-V9PrEcDiT4vj6CrFsctAzI1wFj1CsbIcUlbuMi4LC_snjH0quyjNNVoGr1Uaf7bfIQjekXiWDv_tgsqZ24FQtgY/s640/uphill+climb.jpg" title="Uphill Walk in Sion" width="480"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uphill Walk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Strong fortifying was done by
the British on the places where the Marathas and Portuguese had made small
watch towers etc. This Hill was blasted twice – once to make space for laying
the railway tracks for the Central Line and second time to make way for the
Eastern Express Highway. If these blasts had not taken place the hill directly
extends till the Sion Fort.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">This land is marked as “Villa
Residence” is actually a sanatorium of ayurveda. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">One close look of the
architecture of the building you will notice that it is a mix of Gothic &
Renaissance structure which is known as “Maunlein” style. Have a look at the
pillars which clearly reflect the Roman Style. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaqZP2TmF5C44a1bYtQgBn0ZRJruYkWpSlU6jEMgtuw08YK9YEJhZPDK54jqr2bdNiU28iVaoSkhHh6AnmNSSufMOgZAjVzswiSUhk14YdqDj75J7an14-aggBQuztH2L2BHcBjNzkAC0/s1600/IMG-20190205-WA0050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Villa Residence" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaqZP2TmF5C44a1bYtQgBn0ZRJruYkWpSlU6jEMgtuw08YK9YEJhZPDK54jqr2bdNiU28iVaoSkhHh6AnmNSSufMOgZAjVzswiSUhk14YdqDj75J7an14-aggBQuztH2L2BHcBjNzkAC0/s640/IMG-20190205-WA0050.jpg" title="Villa Residence" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Villa Residence</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">At one entrance of the
sanatorium the inscription is engraved in wood in English and at the other
entrance in Gujarati. Please note that the year of construction has been carved
out (May be they don’t want the building to gain a heritage status).</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">One part of the sanatorium has
been now converted into a boy’s hostel. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-l5866L8UaUY01HCSPpEt6Kjz_T9mW2R2Wwhil4J83X24pY7cKB3XzSqgsb67sJRqiPcv06NHdeE-MjRcT0t1XRF3TN6EZ72ruT6_fDClN59ODC2EpM0uy1idnKNwevJ4gEH6GOO7qs/s1600/IMG-20190205-WA0065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-l5866L8UaUY01HCSPpEt6Kjz_T9mW2R2Wwhil4J83X24pY7cKB3XzSqgsb67sJRqiPcv06NHdeE-MjRcT0t1XRF3TN6EZ72ruT6_fDClN59ODC2EpM0uy1idnKNwevJ4gEH6GOO7qs/s640/IMG-20190205-WA0065.jpg" width="480"></a></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We walk down the stairs and
also the hill and we come across a beautiful green painted bungalow which was at
that time, the last house on the Mumbai Island City. The owner of the house
recalls his childhood days (atleast 60 years back), when the area was unsafe at
night – as it was wild and had jackals roaming around post dusk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Once on the main road you come
across a pond next to the Dwikuta Temple (Dwi means two and kuta means kalash) of
Shiva and Parwati. It is said that the pond never goes dry. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Next stop on the walk is the
Dunkan Causeway. While walking to the Dunkan Causeway we were reminded that we
are walking on the reclaimed land, this the place where there was a creek and
boats and ferries used to dock. The people living near the creek used to cross
the creek for daily necessities (food, etc.), for which they needed to pay
customs once the goods were unloaded on the Sion side.<o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHrqr3i26192w866XyqLPLpnkQyv6AmlTt8ZZCeVQFa5byUhoH7BP-zqCyEyCiaU_ebJTdwlKGuIdShxzQT91tocaygCqUGciTYJF_-Gqc3Mvst7w8GDOoRddmSSVckLtRslOTboqK24/s1600/Dunkan+Causeway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dunkan Causeway" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHrqr3i26192w866XyqLPLpnkQyv6AmlTt8ZZCeVQFa5byUhoH7BP-zqCyEyCiaU_ebJTdwlKGuIdShxzQT91tocaygCqUGciTYJF_-Gqc3Mvst7w8GDOoRddmSSVckLtRslOTboqK24/s640/Dunkan+Causeway.jpg" title="Dunkan Causeway" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dunkan Causeway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Today though Dunkan Causeway has
been renamed, the only sign of its erstwhile name is the sewage pumping station
(of BMC). Inside the Dunkan Casueway we saw two milestones which states – “9
Miles from St. Thomas Church” and “7 Miles from St. Thomas Church”. Just for
your ready reference St. Thomas Church is near Asiatic Library in South Bombay.
It was near Asiatic library that the townhall was located and the Bombay
milestone there showed Zero Miles.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5RZXgy4nraHe8ylzypOAAWQYpDn-1b51RocDDscYni9RauViJEGPNJ51Wvmu7jZjEc_9foti2TBytZkFunXu6H8ncgF4-DYXIgiPwuFwoU7d7cXTePyaJNIxIOpHXZwjXQE7Ma0Lftk/s1600/Milestone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Milestone" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5RZXgy4nraHe8ylzypOAAWQYpDn-1b51RocDDscYni9RauViJEGPNJ51Wvmu7jZjEc_9foti2TBytZkFunXu6H8ncgF4-DYXIgiPwuFwoU7d7cXTePyaJNIxIOpHXZwjXQE7Ma0Lftk/s640/Milestone.jpg" title="Milestone" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milestone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The road down from the Dunkan
Causeway leads to Chunnabatti. Chunnabhatti is rightly named as it literally
translated to limestone quarries in English. This was the place where many
limestone quarries were located. It is also said that prisoners from nearby
jails were bought here for work.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Just next to Dunkan Casueway
there is a underground storage house where the ammunition were stored at the time of World War II.
The structure is so strong that no one has been able to even drill a hole for
fixing a light bulb or a water connection. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3iGK44GBi32_yhc5wnnLEovcUxmhyphenhyphenR9knYDOZ9OIy0-HlcbeX29bVPe3_b534cKBvN3fJ_teIVEDMxSVw6ifzLtYrJMgK13FgyrY2ezkHXzvmlKUMaSPLznbTNnmrNp6YeFjkuJ0_Zc/s1600/Ammunition+Dumpyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ammunition Storage" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3iGK44GBi32_yhc5wnnLEovcUxmhyphenhyphenR9knYDOZ9OIy0-HlcbeX29bVPe3_b534cKBvN3fJ_teIVEDMxSVw6ifzLtYrJMgK13FgyrY2ezkHXzvmlKUMaSPLznbTNnmrNp6YeFjkuJ0_Zc/s640/Ammunition+Dumpyard.jpg" title="Ammunition Storage" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ammunition Storage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Next and the last stop of the
Walk was the very obvious – Sion Fort.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivz_rDU4fZk27IlZVwBZoT5r2y9YKV4JRSPsD-vMu-JxpsEnAHiUJNqGMPqSvl6BbNZUoM0q2E8fPQaS2oIBI54OsqOefdJp2xPzu7XKfISCDeORCCJO13qbuMa4cOeenTfmnLPjMGWTw/s1600/Sion+Fort+III.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sion Fort" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivz_rDU4fZk27IlZVwBZoT5r2y9YKV4JRSPsD-vMu-JxpsEnAHiUJNqGMPqSvl6BbNZUoM0q2E8fPQaS2oIBI54OsqOefdJp2xPzu7XKfISCDeORCCJO13qbuMa4cOeenTfmnLPjMGWTw/s640/Sion+Fort+III.jpg" title="Sion Fort" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Sion Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">A small walk and we were at the
entrance of the fort. The fort has been partially converted into a park with
slides and simple exercise machines in place. On our visit we could see
children playing and enjoying at the park.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SZI24SXMgE5emi0WTfEAWHGhloBe75V81D999bw5uZtnAA8l98ddxQDd1ps_XNDwEcReykLc1PY-ky6i4HNaAlGCrfqT_tIbESKJC7lOS-JjPLa5Y9k_mtCvQAOOqL0xvLrF9KoYYK4/s1600/Sion+Fort+II.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sion Fort" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SZI24SXMgE5emi0WTfEAWHGhloBe75V81D999bw5uZtnAA8l98ddxQDd1ps_XNDwEcReykLc1PY-ky6i4HNaAlGCrfqT_tIbESKJC7lOS-JjPLa5Y9k_mtCvQAOOqL0xvLrF9KoYYK4/s640/Sion+Fort+II.jpg" title="Sion Fort" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sion Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The Fort is an uphill climb
with a beautiful view of the Bombay City. No wonder the British decided to make
a fort at this point, as this fort shows an aerial view of the city and is the
second highest point of Bombay (after Malabar Hill). In some parts of the fort
you can see the architecture of the wooden slabs of those times.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0wiQlXnxOcTVWc3nzCMVQlBB1QVBz80SBwpKBa7fwSIDY_HmRSUOUEvhzy3NtHjb16zuPAGx7T_ZGVqnafDpcgKGQDWXgWCMzOE63Eh8nNcdVeMDKSL-y_fo2sz-QTXHBKss9NqLaD8/s1600/View+from+Sion+Fort.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View from Sion Fort" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0wiQlXnxOcTVWc3nzCMVQlBB1QVBz80SBwpKBa7fwSIDY_HmRSUOUEvhzy3NtHjb16zuPAGx7T_ZGVqnafDpcgKGQDWXgWCMzOE63Eh8nNcdVeMDKSL-y_fo2sz-QTXHBKss9NqLaD8/s640/View+from+Sion+Fort.jpg" title="View from Sion Fort" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Sion Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The fort is actually in a dilapidated
form with various hearts and names scribbled on the walls. We also met two
youngsters practicing street dance format on one side of the fort.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Post this we discussed about
other prominent things in Sion which we can explore on our own namely:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Lokmanya Tilak Municipal
General Hospital, popularly known as Sion Hospital was started in 1947 with 10
beds and today boasts of more than 1400 beds. A medical college is also
attached to the hospital and is one of the best govt medical college in Bombay
(after KEM). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Gandhi Market is a popular
market which predominantly caters to women Indian Wear. Gandhi Market is not
very far from Sion Station and it was established around 1949-50 by refuges from
Pakistan. Even today few shops are run by the family members of the refugees
and will have lot of stories to share with you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Shanmukanandan Hall – This is
known to be one of the center pieces of theatre in Mumbai. It is one of the
first theatres of Mumbai and boasts of a seating capacity of over 2000. It is
also equipped with modern stage change equipment<o:p></o:p></span><br>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHA7jcNuFwYx1e8FLtNVHqzkO8nl8jx6RubZ5MqLMbTFdXyjkRdb4Skl196Lm1FUAQHTeblGDaz5i9Chr2m2E6A4FW_OJ0Gm0T38daabAN24uN_VAHBE4bmJfJiWFKZ5Ycxq4C-_YCJg/s1600/Notepad+%2526+Pen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHA7jcNuFwYx1e8FLtNVHqzkO8nl8jx6RubZ5MqLMbTFdXyjkRdb4Skl196Lm1FUAQHTeblGDaz5i9Chr2m2E6A4FW_OJ0Gm0T38daabAN24uN_VAHBE4bmJfJiWFKZ5Ycxq4C-_YCJg/s640/Notepad+%2526+Pen.jpg" width="480"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With IHWF notepad & pen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">And with this we came to the
end of the highly engrossing heritage walk. I would like to offer sincere
thanks to Ashwini Nawathe and Sahapedia IHWF for the efforts and time.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">There are many walks being
conducted in Mumbai and various other cities in India in the month of February.
In case you are interested please go through their website <a href="http://www.indiaheritagewalks.org/">www.indiaheritagewalks.org/</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Sion, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India19.0390214 72.86189519999993519.009001899999998 72.821554699999936 19.0690409 72.902235699999935tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-15565940076802950732018-11-25T11:35:00.000+05:302018-11-25T11:35:17.116+05:30Lukshmi Vilas Palace - Vadodara<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">It was during our
recent trip to Statue of Unity that we decided to make a quick visit to the
grand Lukshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Luksmi Vilas Palace<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfWmEn0sFqq22L8rr5skZ_FNRxuvgPTG6WCGxf79CMhonHJ8LEXyXpq5mjSrosh-3STAIaYQJrOnf7QejqPHc3_9Um7In5pze8ORP1JUpPWpGIwdH2CBBMFLGRc3BjU67eIatbJuWS-I/s1600/The+Palace+at+length.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfWmEn0sFqq22L8rr5skZ_FNRxuvgPTG6WCGxf79CMhonHJ8LEXyXpq5mjSrosh-3STAIaYQJrOnf7QejqPHc3_9Um7In5pze8ORP1JUpPWpGIwdH2CBBMFLGRc3BjU67eIatbJuWS-I/s640/The+Palace+at+length.jpg" title="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Build on an estate of
700 acres, Lukshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat is the luxurious home of
the Rulers of Baroda. It was commissioned by Maharaja Sayaji Rao III in 1878
and was completed in 1890. Interestingly, Lakshmi Vilas Palace is four times
the size of Buckingham Palace and was build at a cost of GBP 180,000 (Rs.
27,00,000 in 1890).</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Entrance
& Parking <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">You can enter from
Gate No 2 which is the entrance of the Palace & Museum for general public.
The security guard will make a note of your vehicle No. at Gate No 2. There is
enough parking space within the compound of the Palace for two wheelers and
four wheelers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Timing
<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Anytime between 10:00
am to 5:00 pm. You will spend around 2 hours in the palace. So please plan
accordingly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Entrance
Fee <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The Entrance Fee is
Rs 225 per person which includes an audio guide in English, Hindi &
Gujurati. Divided into ten segments, the audio guide takes you to the royal
journey amidst the courtyards of the Palace, The coronation Hall, The Armoury
Room and The Durbar Hall. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The ticket is very
beautiful and looks more like a postcard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Photography inside
the Palace is strictly not allowed. You can take pictures of the exterior of
the Palace with your mobile phones. Taking pictures from your DSLR &
Cameras are not allowed. There are many guards in every room in the Palace to
ensure that you don’t touch anything and don’t click any picture. Respect the
rule of the Palace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Garden & the Golf Course<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTuW0JcV7Axta5vZKp2_Ltp7m72x9dP6xFuToIh5lOVpKON8BleWsww4vHNhVOrJUSKahaGQoPXYXFg9_oU0TGZ4Da7nm4_8ojVb3_sw1bIsFCuPgQVS0nz3vWHWp-WqF-uU04sR0Jdc/s1600/The+Palace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTuW0JcV7Axta5vZKp2_Ltp7m72x9dP6xFuToIh5lOVpKON8BleWsww4vHNhVOrJUSKahaGQoPXYXFg9_oU0TGZ4Da7nm4_8ojVb3_sw1bIsFCuPgQVS0nz3vWHWp-WqF-uU04sR0Jdc/s640/The+Palace.jpg" title="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A closer look of the Palace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">The tour of the
Palace starts from the beautiful garden which overlooks a massive golf course.
It is a great vantage point for getting the panoramic views of the magnificent
Palace. This is the place where you can have a picture with the Palace as the
back drop. There are some peacock statues made in marble which gives a very
royal touch.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Entrance Hall<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">After many picture
perfect clicks of the massive Palace we now head towards the Entrance Hall. The
Entrance hall has beautiful marble pillars with magnificient carvings. There
are marble sculptures by Fellici of a Brahmin, of a noble man, and a sculpture
of the king and the queen mother. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Climbing the few
steps, we reach the staircase. The pillars supporting the Entrance Hall have
been carved with cow and sun – Sun being the main deity and cow being the
symbol of the Gaekwads. The staircase has been intricately carved by Fellici.
The windows above the staircase have been beautifully decorated with colored
stained glass. The Lukshmi Vilas Palace has the maximum number of stained glass
that has ever been used at one place in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Weapons
& Armoury<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwTWamFiEqEm_B5NZKQWRryIzOv7ZK41PuQUvogF72-c4hgL_BtUA28j4KMS820D_tvtPkotEQsJLBeHjYPK_jCWwT8CARlUUMkKrdhhmBYvg2wpQ4-KWzRbW7FEAmlCcGkcduAOirdCg/s1600/The+Painting.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwTWamFiEqEm_B5NZKQWRryIzOv7ZK41PuQUvogF72-c4hgL_BtUA28j4KMS820D_tvtPkotEQsJLBeHjYPK_jCWwT8CARlUUMkKrdhhmBYvg2wpQ4-KWzRbW7FEAmlCcGkcduAOirdCg/s640/The+Painting.JPG" title="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wall Painting near the entrance of the Palace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Next comes - The
Armoury, which has an impressive collection of swords, spears, daggers, guns, shields
and other antique weapons. Anyone who has a weakness for weapons would like to
spend a lot of time in this Exhibit. Every weapon in this Exhibit has been used
in war and battles and has a story to tell.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Coronation
Hall<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">One of the most
important Hall in this Palace is the Cornation Hall also known as the Gaddi
Hall. This hall is so sacred that you have to take off your footwear to enter
this Hall. I was taken aback by the simplicity of the hall. This is the Hall
where the Maharajas of Baroda were coronated. The throne (Gaddi) is very simple
– a fat cushion placed under the peacock umbrella. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgEjJOWGSH6FXjQ34LXr3QF86dwC4LALv13qwSQztgkwKqKtO6G68oaXOILk9Fikz67hoo5ip0X1gRKB5zszFcBj0xj07XopPxdDYF3A0a2tHntmAwYnGhC8dzixXex7JPyvoD6q7NKQg/s1600/Beautiful+Archway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgEjJOWGSH6FXjQ34LXr3QF86dwC4LALv13qwSQztgkwKqKtO6G68oaXOILk9Fikz67hoo5ip0X1gRKB5zszFcBj0xj07XopPxdDYF3A0a2tHntmAwYnGhC8dzixXex7JPyvoD6q7NKQg/s640/Beautiful+Archway.jpg" title="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Archways </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Another major
highlight of this Coronation Hall is the regal paintings by Raja Ravi Verma.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Darbar Hall<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Connecting to the
Elephant Hall, is the largest and the most beautiful room of the entire Palace,
The Darbar Hall. This is the place where all the cultural performances took
place. The Darbar Hall is a gigantic
place which is not supported by any pillar. It’s a wonder how the structure
supports itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The floor of the Hall
has been inlaid with beautiful mosaic and semi precious stones. The upper parts
of the wall are dotted with carved balconies made of rose and sandal wood. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9BkY3EOORJxcSoRr5iE3EW3dyHDexEGWB_EWSOPd9fcEeriNJS5cyUBgFlcRdtb7fCxkrzQg8sSRselEtsJx8oy5cSV0G2G0nJy0ygQYSUmAH7GOzkZklDqWn2Dy1Ae0HBJk0UHyFsk/s1600/Durbar+Hall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9BkY3EOORJxcSoRr5iE3EW3dyHDexEGWB_EWSOPd9fcEeriNJS5cyUBgFlcRdtb7fCxkrzQg8sSRselEtsJx8oy5cSV0G2G0nJy0ygQYSUmAH7GOzkZklDqWn2Dy1Ae0HBJk0UHyFsk/s640/Durbar+Hall.jpg" title="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Durbar Hall; Courtsey : Natgeo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">The windows of the
Hall are decorated with the most beautiful stained glass, portraying scenes
from the Hindu Mythology.</span><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The King of Baroda says
that “There is perhaps no finer room in India”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
Just when you step out of the Darbar Hall, there is a small café within the
Palace premises and I highly recommend some snacks and tea here before
concluding your royal tour to the opulent Lukshmi Vilas Palace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieVUNDeFfxjzzgTlP9HhelOfyQcwjFv4q-fD26i1q3VpYXrBmIGzob0qVkGJ86NHUC_6O3Uz2D7GbYcLhfvAA6rGR6U4FYuDRN3COzpXqCSrso5wR1IFm7XbKkz64th1ZjEO7Y8KjpuC0/s1600/Bye+from+the+Palace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieVUNDeFfxjzzgTlP9HhelOfyQcwjFv4q-fD26i1q3VpYXrBmIGzob0qVkGJ86NHUC_6O3Uz2D7GbYcLhfvAA6rGR6U4FYuDRN3COzpXqCSrso5wR1IFm7XbKkz64th1ZjEO7Y8KjpuC0/s640/Bye+from+the+Palace.jpg" title="Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the Palace as the backdrop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">The Lukshmi Vilas
Palace is an acknowledgement of the splendor of Baroda state, a beautiful
combination of Indian and European architectural styles. If you happen to be in
Vadodara, please make an effort to visit this grand and extravagant home of the
Royals.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Don’t
miss:</span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>The
stained windows and the mosaic floor in the Durbar Hall</li>
<li>Sword
of Guru Govind Singh and Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb</li>
<li>Masterpiece
paintings by Raja Ravi Verma</li>
<li>Picture
with the Palace as the background</li>
</ul>
<br />
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</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Vadodara, Gujarat, India22.3071588 73.18121870000004522.0721388 72.85849520000005 22.5421788 73.50394220000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-11022483252320417752017-12-09T12:04:00.001+05:302017-12-09T12:04:31.301+05:30Mesmerizing Meghalaya <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">A 5
day trip to Meghalaya that covers Shillong, Cheerapunjee, Dawki and trek to
double decker living root bridge. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></i>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4g1LJjzypChp8p5fXi2qdvDKcHuqyHnr1iIwyxUpCCVlvEHwmYWxUDiW8dEX5wX2jLEO8PtqmrJ2115LP9eVxFecNWKS3msR894iyU6tHuq_aYI-E1mu6pz0TA-0PlPHOCDeLmGkaOc/s1600/Meghalaya.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4g1LJjzypChp8p5fXi2qdvDKcHuqyHnr1iIwyxUpCCVlvEHwmYWxUDiW8dEX5wX2jLEO8PtqmrJ2115LP9eVxFecNWKS3msR894iyU6tHuq_aYI-E1mu6pz0TA-0PlPHOCDeLmGkaOc/s640/Meghalaya.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></i>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">When you think of Meghalaya,
you imagine the massive waterfalls, the very famous living root bridge, the
wettest place on the earth and the hovering clouds. For someone who is a nature lover, Meghalaya
can be described as the paradise on earth. Some even refer to it as the
“Scotland of the East”</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">A beautiful three hour drive
from Guwahati Airport took us to the capital city of Meghalaya – <b>Shillong</b> which has been aptly known as
the “Abode of the clouds”. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRZDTgTIUSmjzlGA60qMCf2CxB8FqAcUzDhzqoASc35TqsgTYGi5V_j87rmJKJleFc9uZV6MK30FEc-MVR1L9oU4B3SGioN-2S_q8oN3ApdcMtmlZryLxhS3KqzGYu2x2XVmcCLCgl-I/s1600/Lake+outside+Guwahati.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lake outside Guwahati" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRZDTgTIUSmjzlGA60qMCf2CxB8FqAcUzDhzqoASc35TqsgTYGi5V_j87rmJKJleFc9uZV6MK30FEc-MVR1L9oU4B3SGioN-2S_q8oN3ApdcMtmlZryLxhS3KqzGYu2x2XVmcCLCgl-I/s640/Lake+outside+Guwahati.JPG" title="Lake outside Guwahati" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake outside Guwahati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Just a few kms before we
reached Shillong there lies the very famous man-made </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Umain Lake</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">, in the lap of Mother Nature. We decided to stop at the
lake on our way back to the airport and continued heading towards Shillong
right away.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Shillong is a bustling place
where people are warm and friendly and the day was well spent in exploring the
by lanes for walks and the market where one could shop for souvenirs, curios
and cane artifacts. The weather was cloudy and very pleasant for a long
comfortable walk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">While walking towards <b>Police Bazaar</b> we explored <b>Ward’s Lake</b> and <b>Lady Hydari Park</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Police Bazaar is the center
point of Shillong and is bustling with people. It’s the place where everything
is a stone’s throw away. All well known brands are available there along with
many local items too. Here you will also find many tour operators / drivers for
short trips outside Shillong.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxLN67s55N_GTnhLKc8Ul5L1hfx6EZJhMn2R9qVAJyJ7QF4grRjNmw3fcs9fqdOaYKMqAuYvpP012p3mhkRQIE68j5g6rOZVFKuJg8UhrjaqLIYKo9dsndFBBuFlSWsvPvlpCgSZoSQM/s1600/Enroute+Dawki+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enroute Dawki" border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxLN67s55N_GTnhLKc8Ul5L1hfx6EZJhMn2R9qVAJyJ7QF4grRjNmw3fcs9fqdOaYKMqAuYvpP012p3mhkRQIE68j5g6rOZVFKuJg8UhrjaqLIYKo9dsndFBBuFlSWsvPvlpCgSZoSQM/s640/Enroute+Dawki+1.JPG" title="Enroute Dawki" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute Dawki</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Early next morning we headed to </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Dawki</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> – which lies on </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">India Bangladesh Border</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">. We experienced
a serene drive through the clouds. On our way we saw the view which is known as
the </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Laitlum Canyons</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> (Rock-On 2 was
shot here). The landscape was mesmerizing and one dare not blink lest he misses
something.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtP0NaCkH-i2Nk5_2d-0qnCRctD3P_-gNhTyWIrftdTD9eSrCgDaY_ZosIjRHUfl1YHUtXafRlB16kJ-YIdNKZcc1dv1ZjoYgOTo0nSG2qbEnyzA3hxkJbsxauPHs1aokiajmWA_PsmE/s1600/Dawki.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dawki Lake at Bangladesh Border" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtP0NaCkH-i2Nk5_2d-0qnCRctD3P_-gNhTyWIrftdTD9eSrCgDaY_ZosIjRHUfl1YHUtXafRlB16kJ-YIdNKZcc1dv1ZjoYgOTo0nSG2qbEnyzA3hxkJbsxauPHs1aokiajmWA_PsmE/s640/Dawki.JPG" title="Dawki Lake at Bangladesh Border" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawki Lake at Bangladesh Border</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgphcY9KjNlib8J8PHDTwUp0nh58SxZeacm4EyERNybFGNNtu8ACbK1CB177QM9F5g2oQ-I9T6pznmNmsB9e7rJNZ9A7_t-IscXAeftAD4s5Kk8shfSC42inFww92Lj9czaznNIueZyj20/s1600/Dawki+in+Bangladesh.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dawki in Bangladesh" border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgphcY9KjNlib8J8PHDTwUp0nh58SxZeacm4EyERNybFGNNtu8ACbK1CB177QM9F5g2oQ-I9T6pznmNmsB9e7rJNZ9A7_t-IscXAeftAD4s5Kk8shfSC42inFww92Lj9czaznNIueZyj20/s640/Dawki+in+Bangladesh.JPG" title="Dawki in Bangladesh" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawki in Bangladesh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Dawki boasts of the magnificent
</span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Umngot River</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> which has crystal clear
water and beautiful backdrop of hills. However, during the monsoon period the
water is muddy and is not clear; so it was a bit of a disappointment for us.
The perfect season to visit the lake is from October to February.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">But, don’t forget to enjoy a
boat ride on Umngot River. You can also take the <b>Dawki Suspension bridge</b> to reach the last village Tamabil; and
click a picture on the India Bangladesh Border.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqUaVmyWoDA1b-xy52YH8SXXZZpcGqSCI_ffMobyDs0KA76_by_yXmXuvD5eOlOaHtOeUAmsDfuBWgjdarjmVrxDsFYz7WYqjZRGaPYqTVc1Mal22_xhvtmxnRfX0lyO4MEYFoJax3XGo/s1600/Bangaldesh+Border.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bangladesh Border" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqUaVmyWoDA1b-xy52YH8SXXZZpcGqSCI_ffMobyDs0KA76_by_yXmXuvD5eOlOaHtOeUAmsDfuBWgjdarjmVrxDsFYz7WYqjZRGaPYqTVc1Mal22_xhvtmxnRfX0lyO4MEYFoJax3XGo/s640/Bangaldesh+Border.JPG" title="Bangladesh Border" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bangladesh Border</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Next, we headed to the wettest
place on earth – </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Cheerapunjee</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">.
Strangely it was not raining at Cheerapunjee. We saw few giant waterfalls like </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Naukhalikai falls</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">, </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Seven Sister waterfalls</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> etc. though not clearly as it was engulfed
with clouds. At Cheerapunjee do check out the </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Mawsmai Caves</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">. It also an ideal stop over point for breakfast /
lunch as there are a variety of eateries to choose from near the caves.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2ZMGZOa7bQ6-7XSO-UIxY-h_TLPDpFUdA3ODatbTrKDMT2LEsxmwpO7ZpD6l0mgmhYMegJb6lpw__S9UYqtsxJB-Fsk8MgI6S_YOWa0THAEDvd6lpGUEv3A40tH6OEpPBUMj2uJnHe0/s1600/Naukhalikai+falls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Waterfall in Cheerapunjee" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2ZMGZOa7bQ6-7XSO-UIxY-h_TLPDpFUdA3ODatbTrKDMT2LEsxmwpO7ZpD6l0mgmhYMegJb6lpw__S9UYqtsxJB-Fsk8MgI6S_YOWa0THAEDvd6lpGUEv3A40tH6OEpPBUMj2uJnHe0/s640/Naukhalikai+falls.JPG" title="Waterfall in Cheerapunjee" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterfalls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHMcEbTX4wSNmTzWZpTZHIzeCy09YSvALKYAn3A2Ku2l3Mybn4hOalrzBLpsOp5ikRUYzQKNJRZdoeRyKRo2PjSH7y-UKdPbKKt9udir9kal1H0JD7lNNluA5Wf1e_2xdRL9y3KD-zTM/s1600/IMG_9292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Waterfall in Cheerapunjee" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHMcEbTX4wSNmTzWZpTZHIzeCy09YSvALKYAn3A2Ku2l3Mybn4hOalrzBLpsOp5ikRUYzQKNJRZdoeRyKRo2PjSH7y-UKdPbKKt9udir9kal1H0JD7lNNluA5Wf1e_2xdRL9y3KD-zTM/s640/IMG_9292.JPG" title="Waterfall in Cheerapunjee" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lets take a closer look</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The third day was the highlight
of our trip. Today we will see one of the amazing creations of Nature - where
the roots of Ficus Elastica tree are naturally intertwined for years to form
bridges to cross stream and rivers.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9AVs9z3vOTeT7XGEeD29tEu0ckZX5dFfcudMPIgQtgWlgS84vZmZnYMdsqhYyf5Z4haTRNzADFgNNNvCBGEyreEC_tEa35iuCgyfXQzbFB4_uV6wsfBTsSqZqg37HjHawL6zkXXXgf4/s1600/Mawsmai+Caves+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mawsmai Caves" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9AVs9z3vOTeT7XGEeD29tEu0ckZX5dFfcudMPIgQtgWlgS84vZmZnYMdsqhYyf5Z4haTRNzADFgNNNvCBGEyreEC_tEa35iuCgyfXQzbFB4_uV6wsfBTsSqZqg37HjHawL6zkXXXgf4/s640/Mawsmai+Caves+1.JPG" title="Mawsmai Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance of Mawsmai Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirMVFNGcQEhKxpKoOu9q6jJ-CP3qxEUCUzzQCmziH5jfx2sz6CId_ulryUbwsF3JoRAo4ff89CdTGWpnHICBdD79wLMJuFRfgq-SkxKdM2-OdjSbY_q5M8Zxt2z_pkxPXQymWobRildc8/s1600/Mawsmai+caves+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mawsmai Caves" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirMVFNGcQEhKxpKoOu9q6jJ-CP3qxEUCUzzQCmziH5jfx2sz6CId_ulryUbwsF3JoRAo4ff89CdTGWpnHICBdD79wLMJuFRfgq-SkxKdM2-OdjSbY_q5M8Zxt2z_pkxPXQymWobRildc8/s640/Mawsmai+caves+2.JPG" title="Mawsmai Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Mawsmai Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">It was a taxing journey
downhill with stairs at most places but the fluttering butterflies, the
tropical forest, the beautiful landscape, the hanging bridges and the treasure
at the end of the trek – “</span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">the double
decker living root bridge</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">” would make all efforts totally worth it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxw8U6ncWBVgzpVw3Xegqi-l6t3oovJgMtsAdlE5NU_6BWti8HAw4dBIsMwMsZ5OT4J0BuQMkLi5pYGvhgi0baMx-dH1T2NUURJtTbjQ2fS1fHFj-DKEgSJFYYSzaA5LRhj9_4Ql6KN4/s1600/Sunrise+at+Cheerapunjee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sunrise in Cheerapunjee" border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxw8U6ncWBVgzpVw3Xegqi-l6t3oovJgMtsAdlE5NU_6BWti8HAw4dBIsMwMsZ5OT4J0BuQMkLi5pYGvhgi0baMx-dH1T2NUURJtTbjQ2fS1fHFj-DKEgSJFYYSzaA5LRhj9_4Ql6KN4/s640/Sunrise+at+Cheerapunjee.jpg" title="Sunrise in Cheerapunjee" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shades in Cheerapunjee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">On the way there are very few stalls, where you can rest, have tea/coffee, munch something and resume the trek. To reach the living bridge you have to cross two hanging bridges over a stream of water which is an adventure in its own. The first sight of the double decker living root bridge will leave you speechless. There is a small waterfall where you can relax and take a dip. If you are game for it, you can also enjoy a totally natural “fish spa” close to the bridge. Do ensure you cross the stream through the living bridge and click a memorable pic.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwufKTSjaWSF0sRNcZYmYMW0qCJUXqs4XAFtPACz5hE08AZ-2dAVcrSZlJmMghtQ1_npLH_nv5G6dbKJAS2k0hnBjh86cwfSCUwn1-GoSCoepiTmTXu9nbCLvQsdZf8_NVogNpa9YZoOM/s1600/Double+Decker+Bridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Double Decker Living Root Bridge" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwufKTSjaWSF0sRNcZYmYMW0qCJUXqs4XAFtPACz5hE08AZ-2dAVcrSZlJmMghtQ1_npLH_nv5G6dbKJAS2k0hnBjh86cwfSCUwn1-GoSCoepiTmTXu9nbCLvQsdZf8_NVogNpa9YZoOM/s640/Double+Decker+Bridge.JPG" title="Double Decker Living Root Bridge" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double Decker Living Root Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The trek back can be strenuous
as it is majorly up hill and climbing steps. Before starting the trek, try to
ensure you carry minimum baggage and only the bare essentials. Stock yourself
up with some water / juice and chocolate bars (downhill and especially return
journey). Always keep yourself hydrated and conserve energy levels. Once you
finish the trek, don’t forget to feast onto the delicious pineapple and
cucumber packs.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After an exhausting but a very
fulfilling trek we headed back to Shillong. Just outside Cheerapunjee we
stopped over to enjoy the <b>Wahkaba Falls</b>
and have some hot maggi for lunch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUHl5MolT9U9n-hFgiRSpvWCtkAjT1OFZtY1CXxEyHnD0f8CjidiLRaVCbNDOTvLRL7yoZIEeP_mJpbGjkOrqJYCOXapyyrtnKjEZPTtRLtepHwQBlx2h2SMSSoPrFr2ng9mfUAmIRi4/s1600/Wahkaba+Waterfall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wahkaba Waterfalls" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUHl5MolT9U9n-hFgiRSpvWCtkAjT1OFZtY1CXxEyHnD0f8CjidiLRaVCbNDOTvLRL7yoZIEeP_mJpbGjkOrqJYCOXapyyrtnKjEZPTtRLtepHwQBlx2h2SMSSoPrFr2ng9mfUAmIRi4/s640/Wahkaba+Waterfall.JPG" title="Wahkaba Waterfalls" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wahkaba Waterfalls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Enroute we saw the </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Elephanta falls</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> which is a three tier
waterfall at the outskirts of Shillong.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNNvozaZh6j5oCyHvjAmDkczk2IIYnsnOFWen6qiPdLVb2vAKCcz6mqixbg8FnswKR3yDNI2KvY6j4Drp-iM_qjn4hs4wrEy7sZH0JmsafKCKmWqRLxoqW2iBQoPrPXUZ3xq_sU-AMOs/s1600/Elephanta+Waterfall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Elephanta Falls near Shillong" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNNvozaZh6j5oCyHvjAmDkczk2IIYnsnOFWen6qiPdLVb2vAKCcz6mqixbg8FnswKR3yDNI2KvY6j4Drp-iM_qjn4hs4wrEy7sZH0JmsafKCKmWqRLxoqW2iBQoPrPXUZ3xq_sU-AMOs/s640/Elephanta+Waterfall.JPG" title="Elephanta Falls near Shillong" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elephanta Falls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We took it easy on the fourth
day of the trip as everyone was getting cramps in their legs due to yesterdays
trek. We headed to the <b>Laitumkhrah
Cathedral</b></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> </span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Church</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> which was a stone
throw away from our hotel and then headed to <b>Don Bosco Museum</b> which is a seven storey building reflecting the
indigenous culture, with various tools, clothing & artifacts on display.
All the North east cultures (of 7 states) are exhibited here. The roof top is
amazingly built and gives you a 360 view of Shillong. There is also a tiny
cafeteria where you can take a quick break and watch a 10 min film on North
East.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7wx3fN5wG-xf-Gi1zue802Qqr4cLF8bJiMvdAhaeqdOUttjRik0NtzGWBgkQySJCXSP5LqMuAI5zW7zdfF0P0KyT4lHOho3JBb8M9Q0gaWiKKO4DkF6xy7zi27DTbQGy-7xpSlWVbe4/s1600/Laitumkhrah+Cathedral+Church.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Laitumkhrah Cathedral Church" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7wx3fN5wG-xf-Gi1zue802Qqr4cLF8bJiMvdAhaeqdOUttjRik0NtzGWBgkQySJCXSP5LqMuAI5zW7zdfF0P0KyT4lHOho3JBb8M9Q0gaWiKKO4DkF6xy7zi27DTbQGy-7xpSlWVbe4/s640/Laitumkhrah+Cathedral+Church.JPG" title="Laitumkhrah Cathedral Church" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laitumkhrah Cathedral Church</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The fifth and last day of our
trip, was a Sunday and Shillong was closed. Every shop was closed, even the
road were empty. After breakfast and exploring the market, we started from
Shillong towards Guwahati to catch our flight to Mumbai. Enroute we stopped at </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Umaim Lake</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> (also known as </span><b style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Barapani</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">) and enjoyed the cool breeze,
the placid water and the serene landscape.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLOf77HxDCFwhbI9n2FyJxb9abLYAhUqNj038IPvOls5g3dNVjr1dgS9lo9_cnyuRydPWgg84zAG0WEMNq5XbnGMtisHvzuEtnOzWS1nTbR0Q7U7noWuNBpb7NcsVHV9i_5wTkvtifHQ/s1600/Umaim+Lake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Umaim Lake (Barapani)" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLOf77HxDCFwhbI9n2FyJxb9abLYAhUqNj038IPvOls5g3dNVjr1dgS9lo9_cnyuRydPWgg84zAG0WEMNq5XbnGMtisHvzuEtnOzWS1nTbR0Q7U7noWuNBpb7NcsVHV9i_5wTkvtifHQ/s640/Umaim+Lake.JPG" title="Umaim Lake (Barapani)" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Umaim Lake (Barapani)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Though we were sad to leave the
place behind we were richer by tons of memories. We had seen only a part of
Meghalaya – a small part of East Khasi hills.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">This was surely a trip which
re-ignited the flame to see this country and explore its nooks and corners.
Everything keeps changing every few miles – be it landscape, culture, dialect,
cuisine. So a lifetime might just be sufficient to soak in the beauty that
Meghalaya offers. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">PS : That's us :</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFcgCa004LC9uNnG-S_Ph-cPFEfxoO8uYMYccSRlUw6Ridps9ZlCKuiKx0XyEG7mYm0s37slCoB5QKZlbj29lOqxkdh5ZLBh8SkAmK9UTrIM1aAQ4K5GPDozsoQaE3M66Tz9DZQVKREA/s1600/Us.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFcgCa004LC9uNnG-S_Ph-cPFEfxoO8uYMYccSRlUw6Ridps9ZlCKuiKx0XyEG7mYm0s37slCoB5QKZlbj29lOqxkdh5ZLBh8SkAmK9UTrIM1aAQ4K5GPDozsoQaE3M66Tz9DZQVKREA/s640/Us.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">US - Nikhil, Nikita & Nupur</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
</div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Shillong, Meghalaya, India25.5787726 91.89325350000001425.4642041 91.731892000000016 25.6933411 92.054615000000013tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-53569501888919004552016-12-28T17:45:00.000+05:302016-12-28T17:45:01.571+05:30Few Hours in Chandni Chowk<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">If you ever want to
know what Old Delhi looks like – head towards Chandni Chowk. The plethora of
shops, hawkers, people, tourists struggling to find way in the narrow lanes,
the web of telephone and electricity wires overhead, the I care a damn attitude
is what depicts our very famous Chandni Chowk – an organized chaos. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI2qI9nje841C0UweGNDFdVJjIGa_JGi3ADwLA0WafrMaAmfkRIH1XcioBD0U1PI_T-v01hr3PJCpj46JuT6-0QG4GhNPuQzHXyWmTu2wuvuZjcU8EpD4_B4YFEqcs7yVDmCpEoPnQycg/s1600/Red+Fort+-+A+little+Closer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Red Fort, Delhi" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI2qI9nje841C0UweGNDFdVJjIGa_JGi3ADwLA0WafrMaAmfkRIH1XcioBD0U1PI_T-v01hr3PJCpj46JuT6-0QG4GhNPuQzHXyWmTu2wuvuZjcU8EpD4_B4YFEqcs7yVDmCpEoPnQycg/s640/Red+Fort+-+A+little+Closer.JPG" title="Red Fort, Delhi" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Fort, Delhi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">On our way to Amritsar,
we had few hours in hand in Delhi and we decided to head and get a feel of this
brouhaha and enjoy some very famous street food of Delhi.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">From the airport, we
took the easiest and the fastest way to Chandni Chowk – the metro. It is said
that Chandni Chowk is undoubtedly the King of Street Food and since we wanted
to have exactly that why settle for less. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Just when we walked
out of the Metro Station and came on the main road of Chandni Chawk we found a
hawker selling roasted sweet potato and for us that was the starting point. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0INPayh4VVMWVzdLCneQ_PEIHyKd5Bv5zMjkWk8YLRVKMIFCISFmTtmAi5QqIitIBafXXf8rfGWNJ0RdywbH9lE3o9SE-7CuMlKExWlfOevl2wRNUsWtPyJLAxtO2WFZJXSQQQYwcmY/s1600/Sweet+Potato+Hawker.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandni Chowk" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0INPayh4VVMWVzdLCneQ_PEIHyKd5Bv5zMjkWk8YLRVKMIFCISFmTtmAi5QqIitIBafXXf8rfGWNJ0RdywbH9lE3o9SE-7CuMlKExWlfOevl2wRNUsWtPyJLAxtO2WFZJXSQQQYwcmY/s640/Sweet+Potato+Hawker.JPG" title="Chandni Chowk" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lip Smacking sweet potato chaat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Post that, we headed
towards the Red Fort Side and on our way we stopped at the very famous Natraj Dahi Bhalla Corner (near Central Bank). It’s THE place to have Aloo Tikki and Dahi Bhalle. All the tikki lovers must stop here
and savor its flavor. They make it right in front of you and serve you hot loaded
with sweet and sour chutneys. It made in pure ghee and costs Rs 50 each. There
is no sitting area, you have to stand on the footpath and eat.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmtq3vQxOmCto0Jqbz6daE1HUwA8ejNC3Kp3wvcRo60_wqZ8UlnyZvHw9LErKGH1dTBiCMZ1yGh6aQPSJgaM4udO2ZTIINRzbhwfN0zZenHm33rQpeb65oU2420KLoT6sGk8j2pFphoQ/s1600/Natraj+Dahi+Bhalla+Corner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandni Chowk" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmtq3vQxOmCto0Jqbz6daE1HUwA8ejNC3Kp3wvcRo60_wqZ8UlnyZvHw9LErKGH1dTBiCMZ1yGh6aQPSJgaM4udO2ZTIINRzbhwfN0zZenHm33rQpeb65oU2420KLoT6sGk8j2pFphoQ/s640/Natraj+Dahi+Bhalla+Corner.JPG" title="Chandni Chowk" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natraj Dahi Bhalla Corner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIneKfOEsgBb3urZlcAqpTxFKbfLUIkADK0n1fY34IGpmdb3AgaoXyOTsJaf36nJcJnxnOwvs0xZ2BrAB31la53ZIz8OLAf58Ud5krkgAHXOS_NB7OOES-4aJjKpJQLNfRBaaF_BEYGh8/s1600/Aloo+Tikki.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandni Chowk" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIneKfOEsgBb3urZlcAqpTxFKbfLUIkADK0n1fY34IGpmdb3AgaoXyOTsJaf36nJcJnxnOwvs0xZ2BrAB31la53ZIz8OLAf58Ud5krkgAHXOS_NB7OOES-4aJjKpJQLNfRBaaF_BEYGh8/s640/Aloo+Tikki.JPG" title="Chandni Chowk" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Served HOT!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Next we stopped at
Haldirams’ and had a Chole Bhature and Raj Kachori.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhirs53YCfeQCMo1_6CkyP5L3ONmcAmDx_IBR7BfLAXvHQ2w6XZwxPhgGFz5_pwthEkZ93TAaW9tJ3pUDfBbBfDe2Lqelm53iYp9plSFWibp8_QeiXR4knRw7B-NkLcXoTYy0aXEEm38XA/s1600/Haldirams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandani Chowk" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhirs53YCfeQCMo1_6CkyP5L3ONmcAmDx_IBR7BfLAXvHQ2w6XZwxPhgGFz5_pwthEkZ93TAaW9tJ3pUDfBbBfDe2Lqelm53iYp9plSFWibp8_QeiXR4knRw7B-NkLcXoTYy0aXEEm38XA/s640/Haldirams.jpg" title="Chandani Chowk" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch at Haldiram's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">We also stopped over to have aloo fried in ghee topped with chutney, chaat masala and lemon... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Then we headed to the
Red Fort. Since we dint have much time we decided to visit the Red Fort some
other time and took pics from the outside only. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggS0C0ECmRdhlTnnfmxLoLmZiUKzE3qL3Io1GREQw_rjqjID266YoIqrOdnM22uZ2-95p0UsyoBZLzXsRHMDtJuq8gYmuh_y46xvZ5AMulXFfkwlWG8WDm3TWT_WPpWNfReXzgvpJUIv0/s1600/Red+Fort.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Red Fort" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggS0C0ECmRdhlTnnfmxLoLmZiUKzE3qL3Io1GREQw_rjqjID266YoIqrOdnM22uZ2-95p0UsyoBZLzXsRHMDtJuq8gYmuh_y46xvZ5AMulXFfkwlWG8WDm3TWT_WPpWNfReXzgvpJUIv0/s640/Red+Fort.JPG" title="Red Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">While returning back to
the Metro Station we stopped at the Old Famous Jalebi Walla. Sweet tooth
anyone? As the name suggests, this small place is known for its iconic Jalebi
which are made in pure ghee. </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXBgGw5pkywTHBOWdUrJod1TAf3KCmC_Ggp9BHix-tIhj9dkoy-reKV9JT732PfCH3nPHiXDTFbRqewgudjj5THJTQft8ni9hu9XKBtDyCgPXVJ2uVITvvuo4eYvrnvGhyf18r9dxKck/s1600/Jalebi+Wala.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandni Chowk" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXBgGw5pkywTHBOWdUrJod1TAf3KCmC_Ggp9BHix-tIhj9dkoy-reKV9JT732PfCH3nPHiXDTFbRqewgudjj5THJTQft8ni9hu9XKBtDyCgPXVJ2uVITvvuo4eYvrnvGhyf18r9dxKck/s640/Jalebi+Wala.JPG" title="Chandni Chowk" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jalebi Walla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Chandani Chowk" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigrEThMuho98pk8N6Q2NdJRIcOGw2nj8gw_Gk0b7aVbk1WYS5hA1xE2e5bk0KHsl4DSDWipbXV0A_1XY4jnQsBiMbSnJ_X7wvJaC8ywAp3RccRrjzNj2HtDXFTJ8wKRIH1KEyJX17mGts/s640/Jalebi.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Chandani Chowk" width="480" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jalebi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">We were not able to
cover all the places which we wanted to due to time constraints. But we were
more than happy with what we have eaten. My advice – try a little bit if
everything and keep reminding yourself that there is loads more to taste and
appreciate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Chandni Chowk also
known as Dilli 6, is the place to come to relish some lip smacking street food.
It is a Gastronomical Delight!!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi, India28.6505942 77.23032839999996228.6227252 77.189987899999963 28.6784632 77.270668899999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-49332667524514666912016-12-26T16:29:00.001+05:302016-12-26T16:29:17.819+05:30Amritsar – A Day of Spirituality, Patriotism & Food <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Amritsar,
a city in Punjab which is famous for Golden Temple, Wagah Border, Jalliawala
Bagh and finger licking food. And this is exactly what we did in our one day
stay in Amritsar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsSVXfMu4SA7Tt5P_NHIEODK5jBj5GVr_BZZoSoxmDOqoZyuW426PkznBCcvJ0fqhgi7OlTFy4gqq9YKNRiY1-nP-pEu9EMPf79CC7VxjPcBHAYhX8Vg9Ya09a3jlEDD5dVpkWwnUVwa0/s1600/The+Golden+Temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Golden Temple" border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsSVXfMu4SA7Tt5P_NHIEODK5jBj5GVr_BZZoSoxmDOqoZyuW426PkznBCcvJ0fqhgi7OlTFy4gqq9YKNRiY1-nP-pEu9EMPf79CC7VxjPcBHAYhX8Vg9Ya09a3jlEDD5dVpkWwnUVwa0/s640/The+Golden+Temple.jpg" title="The Golden Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Golden Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Golden Temple – Tranquility
& Spirituality at its peak</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
most famous and the most mesmerizing place in the whole of Amritsar has to be
undoubtedly The Golden Temple whose actual name is Harmandir Sahib. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
temple gets the name ‘Golden’ because of the golden dome on the main temple.
The temple is open to people of all faith. One can enter the compound of the
temple from different directions but there is one entrance to reach the main sacred
place - Harmandir Temple. The temple is located in the middle of the sacred
pool and is mesmerizing. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkEVuv8cxEBZyBLRJIMtl8EOQg2QbBsLVi7o8LNiFEgwaTQB1chxV8SBuoog4WN_xHyUThluFXhOp8oHbhXhjCkO-woN_q_sBr6qqMrUtszmVbcDhKA7OZUAp8ispVsVpJPF5pWfLniBU/s1600/Entrance+of+the+Golden+Temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Entrance of the Golden Temple" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkEVuv8cxEBZyBLRJIMtl8EOQg2QbBsLVi7o8LNiFEgwaTQB1chxV8SBuoog4WN_xHyUThluFXhOp8oHbhXhjCkO-woN_q_sBr6qqMrUtszmVbcDhKA7OZUAp8ispVsVpJPF5pWfLniBU/s640/Entrance+of+the+Golden+Temple.JPG" title="Entrance of the Golden Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance of the Golden Temple</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Every
day thousands of pilgrims visit The Golden Temple some for a day visit and some
stay longer and volunteer in the Temple. The Temple also provides shelter to
people without homes, with a place to sleep and a warm blanket during the
chilly nights.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">I
recommend that you visit the temple at least twice – One in day time to feel
the vibe of the place and enjoy the beautiful splendor and later at night to
view the sheer brilliance of the temple’s beauty. At night, The Temple lits up
in dark and leaves you starring with its golden beauty. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-oDvOXJO87af-Lx_xZuXAISpb9PTBmUcesfjV8Ln1BLmY5P7Tihu_9BJ30eZ2U_wKOS1N5RpwOQGtS-gYLwfmbjz2J1Mq7dYfGfrYFSWeKy99pIZIDtmQ7c5lEz4GfBpbP1dmtKzh-ok/s1600/Sights+on+wake+to+Golden+Temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sight on way to Golden Temple" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-oDvOXJO87af-Lx_xZuXAISpb9PTBmUcesfjV8Ln1BLmY5P7Tihu_9BJ30eZ2U_wKOS1N5RpwOQGtS-gYLwfmbjz2J1Mq7dYfGfrYFSWeKy99pIZIDtmQ7c5lEz4GfBpbP1dmtKzh-ok/s640/Sights+on+wake+to+Golden+Temple.JPG" title="Sight on way to Golden Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sight on way to Golden Temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoQsP7YTFj19fjSDeYHbuydA8sv2KrWIR15tLPbh4cUI52-g_vhSLRcFSa0xu1KsjwpjST8qHLbqgRzPHF9GBndVyCIi9Z3uYfpAmGCfmqHk7QwxVNi40xuA0j3XDZDm5Y-H0QvDE8KI/s1600/Another+one.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoQsP7YTFj19fjSDeYHbuydA8sv2KrWIR15tLPbh4cUI52-g_vhSLRcFSa0xu1KsjwpjST8qHLbqgRzPHF9GBndVyCIi9Z3uYfpAmGCfmqHk7QwxVNi40xuA0j3XDZDm5Y-H0QvDE8KI/s640/Another+one.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right in front of Jallianwala bagh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Always
keep your head covered within the complex. You can use a shawl, scarf or
handkerchief. There are numerous head covers provided for free at the entrance
of the temple.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Do
not carry back packs – you have to deposit them in the cloak room (for free).
Cameras and ladies hand bags are allowed. You can click pictures in the complex
but not in the main temple. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">You
need to wash your hands and feet before entering the temple complex.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">At
each corner of the complex, water is served by the volunteers. You must try out
the Langar here – the food is provided free of cost and will have chapatti, one
vegetable, dal, and sweet. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Most of the work in the temple like managing
cloak room, shoe room, kitchen, cooking, cleaning the utensils, cutting
vegetables, serving food, providing water etc are done by volunteers and with a
big and pleasant smile on their face. This volunteering in their word is called
‘<i>Seva</i>’. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
Golden Temple should be an inspiration to all the other religious places in the
world. This is one place where there is total discipline, total neatness. You
will not find any chaos anywhere in the complex and all the things run
smoothly. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4BY87FJOgPXl7PO5ORsPlqwmiO6OINXWek24Ue-Lm3A9MmMDDTZ9dHqjN8_XT_OfERMd1ArHklgJ2Sn7Bc4PsIMhyE2TkCsv8SJAV2XYfCAiK2r5yp8qpVTTXxOxmAgDeXPNs2EbYvgU/s1600/First+sight+of+Golden+Temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="First sight of The Golden Temple" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4BY87FJOgPXl7PO5ORsPlqwmiO6OINXWek24Ue-Lm3A9MmMDDTZ9dHqjN8_XT_OfERMd1ArHklgJ2Sn7Bc4PsIMhyE2TkCsv8SJAV2XYfCAiK2r5yp8qpVTTXxOxmAgDeXPNs2EbYvgU/s640/First+sight+of+Golden+Temple.JPG" title="First sight of The Golden Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First sight of The Golden Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Since
it was winters, the water where you wash your hands and the shallow where you
wash your legs was warm. They think of such nitty gritty details to make one’s
visit comfortable. Hats off to the volunteers at The Golden Temple.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Not
to forget the Khada Prasad that you get after the visit to the Harmandir Sahib
is simply out of the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Jallianwala Bagh <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Jallainwala
Bagh is located very close to the Golden temple and there is no entry fee. It
is just what it is supposed to be – a park – a garden. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">But
it’s the history; it’s the event that happened here so many decades ago that
does not make this park just a simple park. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorMffqe-_DjYNw1X-EATtaK5EouZ8-VOgLTPSNRdm-vO4dVnm2bn86tL-uVRb-3ikbUzuAp5u9HgPvLPrpheSQhW6BfbNBPZfxVqb4f0LReV7X7slFB4oHgt2h7B0dmiNANRezQsJpms/s1600/Jallianwala+Bagh+Entrance.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Jallianwala Bagh Entrance" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorMffqe-_DjYNw1X-EATtaK5EouZ8-VOgLTPSNRdm-vO4dVnm2bn86tL-uVRb-3ikbUzuAp5u9HgPvLPrpheSQhW6BfbNBPZfxVqb4f0LReV7X7slFB4oHgt2h7B0dmiNANRezQsJpms/s640/Jallianwala+Bagh+Entrance.JPG" title="Jallianwala Bagh Entrance" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jallianwala Bagh Entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">A
walk in the Jallianwala Bagh will surely remind you of the stories you read in
your History Class.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">As
I entered this place I was shocked to see the place brimming with people. It
looked like a picnic spot with kids playing cricket and Frisbee. There were
others that were catching on their afternoon nap. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DJwp0NTi0_GHZI0xK9ouQGDydtNLv-fbPxKOH81Mn31SyLDZ1G0Rw8EPgSvOMWLhc_ik77wGPeFF53Nv375CbdCN70G3GQ9jKgW4smuJcpKRPfsoXxMx4eYWtwVzvpiF5PqqVoj565A/s1600/IMG_8686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Inside Jallianwala Bagh" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DJwp0NTi0_GHZI0xK9ouQGDydtNLv-fbPxKOH81Mn31SyLDZ1G0Rw8EPgSvOMWLhc_ik77wGPeFF53Nv375CbdCN70G3GQ9jKgW4smuJcpKRPfsoXxMx4eYWtwVzvpiF5PqqVoj565A/s640/IMG_8686.JPG" title="Inside Jallianwala Bagh" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Jallianwala Bagh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">About
a short distance from the entrance is the ‘Flame of Peace’. There is a museum
at the exit that depicts the horrific story of the Jallianwala Bagh
massacre. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">You
can see the well in which so many unarmed Indians (women & children amongst
them) jumped to escape from the merciless firing by the English army. The walls
where they were mercilessly shot, butchered and annihilated. The bullet marks
have been chalked out on these walls. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxVZUYP2CuMdr5k5TR0Pvw6iNxddfS99pWNJ7fVrcs3QmZymDrlOL6iRz4e1XS1hjiONngcb3KtjGKYYBn02WnslX4ZI24fHuAH76Ob1-HmMizED3Us1phG7cQutigi2oMtdaozzNtXo/s1600/Bullet+marks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bullet Marks at Jallianwala Bagh" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxVZUYP2CuMdr5k5TR0Pvw6iNxddfS99pWNJ7fVrcs3QmZymDrlOL6iRz4e1XS1hjiONngcb3KtjGKYYBn02WnslX4ZI24fHuAH76Ob1-HmMizED3Us1phG7cQutigi2oMtdaozzNtXo/s640/Bullet+marks.JPG" title="Bullet Marks at Jallianwala Bagh" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bullet Marks at Jallianwala Bagh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxOAkMGBHn39De1nNDzsC9vGcd_3-O3Ad_pone0OjtE7Hk7yDzC3kyhdbBq06bEe58oMT4u9rT-HVM0ZjWrFGHGp6jGTjsbMMdympxgrsKal3TgAd5nLIxyfx2F0VoCP9a6AdGaqFOX8/s1600/Well+at+Jallianwala+Bagh.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Martyrs' Well at Jallianwala Bagh" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxOAkMGBHn39De1nNDzsC9vGcd_3-O3Ad_pone0OjtE7Hk7yDzC3kyhdbBq06bEe58oMT4u9rT-HVM0ZjWrFGHGp6jGTjsbMMdympxgrsKal3TgAd5nLIxyfx2F0VoCP9a6AdGaqFOX8/s640/Well+at+Jallianwala+Bagh.JPG" title="Martyrs' Well at Jallianwala Bagh" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martyrs' Well at Jallianwala Bagh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">This
is one place which is very crucial in Indian History but the way it manhandled
gives you creeps.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Wagah Border <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Around
45 minutes’ drive from Amritsar is the India – Pakistan Border where every
evening a special border closing ceremony is conducted. We took a private tuk
tuk for Rs 800 to reach the border. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcl-Bon1GpMVtl9TObsF2HqyyPN4VlPJGrPnLcq2H3VrA7-mMTC2xyJNjG66Bh3XNx__m6bMBWuhP37WbuQ4BLOjKPnaszxhocZDNhY_iNZ5Z8n-hQB_HbhlizrlNrEX410KPCdjIrCE/s1600/Enroute+Warah+Border.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcl-Bon1GpMVtl9TObsF2HqyyPN4VlPJGrPnLcq2H3VrA7-mMTC2xyJNjG66Bh3XNx__m6bMBWuhP37WbuQ4BLOjKPnaszxhocZDNhY_iNZ5Z8n-hQB_HbhlizrlNrEX410KPCdjIrCE/s640/Enroute+Warah+Border.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute Wageh Border in a tuk tuk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The
ceremony starts at 5:00 pm in winters but it is recommended to go atleast two hours
before the ceremony starts – first to get better seats and secondly to clear
the security check. Please carry only the essential items as they will not let
you to carry anything else to the border area. Locker facility is available in
the parking area. Cameras are allowed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Before
the ceremony the Indian women (from the spectators) are asked to run on the
road with the Indian Flag followed by them dancing. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj221H6eIskN8ElfERJz-43WdWwXRAR3-la6L2BoF3s2yhChyU3JECwRif8241jLIFxOmXMuVAegcEEZuVOlWlx8zSkn_1jBq9nQ2jqKqM0XFPSb9tLz49op9AHWkHBhviD8i1hL1nyt5A/s1600/Our+Jawans+at+Wageh+Border.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wagah Border Ceremony" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj221H6eIskN8ElfERJz-43WdWwXRAR3-la6L2BoF3s2yhChyU3JECwRif8241jLIFxOmXMuVAegcEEZuVOlWlx8zSkn_1jBq9nQ2jqKqM0XFPSb9tLz49op9AHWkHBhviD8i1hL1nyt5A/s640/Our+Jawans+at+Wageh+Border.JPG" title="Wagah Border Ceremony" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Ceremony Starts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-W1rRi3aeM_5ElW3RwwBqOIB8uCVIbYho8sUUhU8703xxQYAZAgkQ7eXhTZ64s9c7uTK_RZ6VbGKN5mJ3wZugzOdnc-BEeqV9APw4JFu3kvOvfJl25v4NThZOIjqgTZvHVlBPB1DXy3o/s1600/Crowd+at+Wageh+Border.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Crowd at Wagah Border" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-W1rRi3aeM_5ElW3RwwBqOIB8uCVIbYho8sUUhU8703xxQYAZAgkQ7eXhTZ64s9c7uTK_RZ6VbGKN5mJ3wZugzOdnc-BEeqV9APw4JFu3kvOvfJl25v4NThZOIjqgTZvHVlBPB1DXy3o/s640/Crowd+at+Wageh+Border.JPG" title="Crowd at Wagah Border" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crowd at Wagah Border</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The
main show starts after this. The officers of both the countries – India &
Pakistan – dressed in their respective uniform starts by shouting some
commands. They start marching towards the border gate like gymnasts and
throwing their legs up till their head.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
lot of marching and shouting commands the flags of both the country are lowered
simultaneously. During the ceremony the border gate is opened for few minutes
and then closed after shaking hands with the commander of the other country. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJgNYi_fFulUPkCheDu-3MoFZyAADIv7mz1TmtgMjjrUbxpNMhMcxCfVTbPVzzWo-EFXVXm3qlrvujA1qHxYav34ZC9-PL8tvGWREzUINfcyJWs9Zyd2KkfeKdaQxOG_-zzzSKfPZ6WY/s1600/Soldiers+of+India+%2526+Pakistan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Soldiers of India & Pakistan" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJgNYi_fFulUPkCheDu-3MoFZyAADIv7mz1TmtgMjjrUbxpNMhMcxCfVTbPVzzWo-EFXVXm3qlrvujA1qHxYav34ZC9-PL8tvGWREzUINfcyJWs9Zyd2KkfeKdaQxOG_-zzzSKfPZ6WY/s640/Soldiers+of+India+%2526+Pakistan.JPG" title="Soldiers of India & Pakistan" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soldiers of India & Pakistan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUlUbuPNIzs-gL4HSVA0vIYGsVVYcZQqM_S4TpUoMSHhPvFFdQ7k8ogOdHv2_33Ew2qAOko4bBJEZyD0b6qpDzB47do3FUFYgMdD7J4y1NLR0Uj0zshIkYn-8HKt7feZQWEtO6kINQRo/s1600/The+lowering+of+the+Flag+Drill.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lowering of the Flag" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUlUbuPNIzs-gL4HSVA0vIYGsVVYcZQqM_S4TpUoMSHhPvFFdQ7k8ogOdHv2_33Ew2qAOko4bBJEZyD0b6qpDzB47do3FUFYgMdD7J4y1NLR0Uj0zshIkYn-8HKt7feZQWEtO6kINQRo/s640/The+lowering+of+the+Flag+Drill.JPG" title="Lowering of the Flag" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lowering of the Flag</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The
entire ceremony does not take more than half an hour.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Throughout
the time the spectators are shouting slogans with respect to the motherland.
You could see lot of Indian Flags amidst the crowd and hear slogans and
clapping on numerous occasions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">On
the Indian side of the border, construction is on – they are making the stadium
wider and in some time more spectators can come and witness the ceremony in its
full glory. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Food<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">This
city is the apt place for foodies; from Amritsari Kulcha, to aloo chole puri, to
sarson da saag and makki di roti to Lassis to Jalebis… you can spend breakfast
to dinner relishing delicacy after delicacy, one better than the other. There
are numerous places where you can go and eat and it’s very difficult to decide
which is your favorite. But if you are looking for some recommendations – try
Kesar da Dhaba, Kanha Sweets, Langar at Golden Temple. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxu6ps8D9qdpybyWk56atJkNY_f46z3hOvVQWkCgzgg4kZ3bUgXPxixVV1hYz_0I2CsHZ7G952XefdXaTcjr7W59yNoNT_bZX6_hj6SQYiPf_7c0or2JlbJ22moT5zLshGw7RJID4dJc/s1600/Breakfast+in+Amritsar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Breakfast at Kanha Sweets" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxu6ps8D9qdpybyWk56atJkNY_f46z3hOvVQWkCgzgg4kZ3bUgXPxixVV1hYz_0I2CsHZ7G952XefdXaTcjr7W59yNoNT_bZX6_hj6SQYiPf_7c0or2JlbJ22moT5zLshGw7RJID4dJc/s640/Breakfast+in+Amritsar.jpg" title="Breakfast at Kanha Sweets" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast at Kanha Sweets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">It
is the Golden Temple for which</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack" style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"></a><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"> I will come back to the
city. And the finger licking food … and the patriotic feeling you get at the
Wagah Border…</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Seems
I am coming back to the city again.. for just about everything.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Amritsar, Punjab, India31.6339793 74.87226420000001831.5258238 74.71090270000002 31.7421348 75.033625700000016tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-50672143607381295802016-11-14T17:41:00.001+05:302016-11-14T17:41:01.794+05:30Matheran - A quick getaway from Mumbai<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">There
are few trips that you make because you just need a break from your everyday schedule….
A break from the daily home to office and office to home.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">I
recently made such a trip to Matheran. Our Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi had just announced
the demonetization of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 note. There were crazy lines in front
of Banks and ATMs, but we were on our way to Matheran. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Early morning –
Andheri to Neral<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">With
the alarm ringing we got up at 04:30am. We were very tired after a late friend’s
get together last night and wanted to sleep for few more hours. After willing
away some time in bed we decided to finally get out of bed. I had not packed
last night and therefore dumped two t-shirts and other essentials for a one
night stay in my back pack. Assuming that it’s going to be cold I dumped one
sweater and one shawl in my back pack. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Nikki
and I got ready in top speed and were out of the house by 05:30am. Our plan was
to catch a 6:35 am train to Karjat from Ghatkopar. Since we din’t have 100
rupee notes (I had Rs 270 only in my wallet) we decided to first go and
withdraw some money from the nearest ATM. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
visiting 8 ATMs (non of them had any money) in my locality we headed to the
metro station. We took the metro to Ghatkopar station and just about manage to
catch the 07:14 fast train to Karjat from Ghatkopar (were not able to catch
6:35 as were trying our best to look for a ATM which had some cash in it). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Pramod
boarded the same train from Dombivili and we got off at Neral (two stop before
Karjat) around 9:00 am. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Neral to Matheran<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Just
outside Neral Railway station we boarded a shared cab from Neral to Dasturi
(Rs. 70 per person). The drive from Neral to Dasturi starts with straight roads
but soon you will be on steep winding roads. After a 20 min scenic and adrenaline
drive we reached Dasturi. No vehicle is allowed post Dasturi. If you have come
via your own vehicle there is a parking area where you can park your car. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">A saw a girl handing over the new note of Rs. 2000 to the cab driver. The cab driver had a big question mark on his face as he was seeing the note for the first time. He was not sure if the note is genuine or fake. The girl was explaining him that she has got this note yesterday straight from the bank.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Before
heading to Matheran, we went to a small shop near the entrance gate to Matheran
to have some vada pau and tea. You will notice that the red mud here and large no
of monkeys. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
paying the entrance fee (Rs. 50 for adults, Rs. 25 for children) we headed to
Matheran on foot. Everyone was trying the old 1000 and 500 rupees note at the window to pay the entrance fee to Matheran, which was politely refused by the official.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">You can reach Matheran through one of the three options –
horses, hand carriages or your own foot. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiezXeyEgsEMElTU5iaN-uHA8-ZawDYaD3ccqAFqdbf5A6H2-9wfdEZxfxPRfbUvGESSmMWVsgjXuiON-5CKv8VKK50rA0PaSsyzYpZtx-O8W_GnsTE0OuRXHhkW4w5yWY7S-pyL53MGc/s1600/Horses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Horses at Dasturi" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiezXeyEgsEMElTU5iaN-uHA8-ZawDYaD3ccqAFqdbf5A6H2-9wfdEZxfxPRfbUvGESSmMWVsgjXuiON-5CKv8VKK50rA0PaSsyzYpZtx-O8W_GnsTE0OuRXHhkW4w5yWY7S-pyL53MGc/s640/Horses.jpg" title="Horses at Dasturi" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horses at Dasturi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">It’s
a 30 to 45 minutes simple trek (not including stoppages for clicking pictures).
A slow and steady walk to Matheran takes you through an isolated and very
beautiful jungle full of lush green woods. The walk up to Matheran is
wonderful. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93qTz58zda5sHBBfHRo7eQnoBmE5npJ2qdSTpykvaSfI4jPY2bV0dBM-VfInCSc7VkHgRMZT0nAJuNlGcG8ND_-nPsH-RwXhyphenhyphenMAvX2Ar1sAHWeYWAULVl_ygW5GzdGKh5yt4LULdNRbk/s1600/Trek+to+Matheran.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Trek to Matheran" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93qTz58zda5sHBBfHRo7eQnoBmE5npJ2qdSTpykvaSfI4jPY2bV0dBM-VfInCSc7VkHgRMZT0nAJuNlGcG8ND_-nPsH-RwXhyphenhyphenMAvX2Ar1sAHWeYWAULVl_ygW5GzdGKh5yt4LULdNRbk/s640/Trek+to+Matheran.jpg" title="Trek to Matheran" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trek to Matheran</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">You will find benches on the way wherein you can sit and take a
break from the walk, relax and enjoy the beautiful landscape. Occasionally you
can hear the buzzing of the insects when you are walking in the jungle.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_vv0FoHLy8riN4RhRzUApB3eFguHuSQOZOGNY9jBsaGHYDujky8zhJ1cr7e1a-1HJUJiPcrM_t_8nTrvM4fD_VUSCX04nNM93fnzyX2p56xAHqd6YMBW4jKWJ6xmX1haxFkBHcx8vpyw/s1600/Resting+on+a+bench.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Matheran" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_vv0FoHLy8riN4RhRzUApB3eFguHuSQOZOGNY9jBsaGHYDujky8zhJ1cr7e1a-1HJUJiPcrM_t_8nTrvM4fD_VUSCX04nNM93fnzyX2p56xAHqd6YMBW4jKWJ6xmX1haxFkBHcx8vpyw/s640/Resting+on+a+bench.jpg" title="Matheran" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resting on a bench</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
trail is comfortable but full of small stones and red mud. Use a good pair of
walking shoes with sturdy grip. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Matheran <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Once
we reached Matheran, we decided to first head to our hotel, alight our bags have
some chai and then head to the main market of the small hill station. We had already
booked our one night stay at Spring Wood Heritage. The room was huge with three
beds, TV, attached bathroom, geyser. Our stay was inclusive of breakfast, lunch
and dinner. The hotel had the facility
of swimming pool, carrom, table tennis, badminton.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZgfFPL9J9ZkOFwwwvZbkYtt-wJDXBukK2G781NnP3OLHfO7hHW9ahIGrV9OoH8A7znO1_sn990YtwNNzZzhvr1Q6mV0MPNiV8V1_ieCbYcB1IyorQb2CWqa3Xfd6eVJaxpAn-4ZYDrs/s1600/Springwood+Heritage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Spring Wood Heritage, Matheran" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZgfFPL9J9ZkOFwwwvZbkYtt-wJDXBukK2G781NnP3OLHfO7hHW9ahIGrV9OoH8A7znO1_sn990YtwNNzZzhvr1Q6mV0MPNiV8V1_ieCbYcB1IyorQb2CWqa3Xfd6eVJaxpAn-4ZYDrs/s640/Springwood+Heritage.jpg" title="Spring Wood Heritage, Matheran" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring Wood Heritage, Matheran</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">After
check-in and some tea we headed to the main market of Matheran. The main market
was bustling with activity and people on the weekend. The road was filled with travelers
and couples alike. There were shops selling chikki, footwear, bags, sunglasses
etc.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhTpaSGHYfIFLp-EPOZPY90LtMLvLMERxQK4w92tFGSppEXSAv4xilOB7gizT4H5gSn7yYaJru8ACLNLqlfmMLeMbJ4AH_XseIPvjoSyewiLlxSuv82QDmZrT8Lds-4mCWna_jm5V9UY/s1600/Wax+Museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wax Museum" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhTpaSGHYfIFLp-EPOZPY90LtMLvLMERxQK4w92tFGSppEXSAv4xilOB7gizT4H5gSn7yYaJru8ACLNLqlfmMLeMbJ4AH_XseIPvjoSyewiLlxSuv82QDmZrT8Lds-4mCWna_jm5V9UY/s640/Wax+Museum.jpg" title="Wax Museum" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wax Museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_SvuwcK-10fWGuteIy5r_8N91RtBriVHyDHZYOGVxSxfNJNx2sPs31cPH93pNiiD92XIs8WU9I2fVwWfZxtS38KgdCulvhPnTmE02JXb9Wsy7y83Q7nIOlHtWNXoyKGeSFiHxYDODsHU/s1600/Kolhapuri+Pics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kolhapuri Chappal Shop" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_SvuwcK-10fWGuteIy5r_8N91RtBriVHyDHZYOGVxSxfNJNx2sPs31cPH93pNiiD92XIs8WU9I2fVwWfZxtS38KgdCulvhPnTmE02JXb9Wsy7y83Q7nIOlHtWNXoyKGeSFiHxYDODsHU/s640/Kolhapuri+Pics.jpg" title="Kolhapuri Chappal Shop" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kolhapuri Chappal Shop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">After
a good long walk in the market we decided to return to our hotel for lunch.
After resting for two hours we played carrom in the hotel. In the evening we
walked towards Lake Charlotte to witness the sunset.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAG-rvWU1f07ZSTqL6TFqT1HY5-kRjgOdIzrIDjm5Q92LFTZHiS8Q0D5v2rWoPrcMJYWZu7UXqxlMlpqcD4XZ0lJWLiDOvsP2TT47oJ2jWUH9DQRvcL7oLFvHLM5i4W1QTAK45vrTTTE/s1600/On+our+way+to+Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="On our way to Lake Charlotte" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAG-rvWU1f07ZSTqL6TFqT1HY5-kRjgOdIzrIDjm5Q92LFTZHiS8Q0D5v2rWoPrcMJYWZu7UXqxlMlpqcD4XZ0lJWLiDOvsP2TT47oJ2jWUH9DQRvcL7oLFvHLM5i4W1QTAK45vrTTTE/s640/On+our+way+to+Lake.jpg" title="On our way to Lake Charlotte" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On our way to Lake Charlotte</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">After
a beautiful walk amidst the dense forest we reached the Lake. The breeze near
the lake was chilly and the sun was about to set.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPz_UDo2rC_bnUdK9T3kQY3-9iKOCn7locADehV0r2Tnkmk39MBmR1aiEIT4VTWCUTtCN3dfGU3-lgROefU4rDsJzFkTEXCGV-ApIHaWIiK3m_Py5ElhWsZXaE7PWZAK-fKAnskr8pTo/s1600/Lake+Charlotte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lake Charlotte" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPz_UDo2rC_bnUdK9T3kQY3-9iKOCn7locADehV0r2Tnkmk39MBmR1aiEIT4VTWCUTtCN3dfGU3-lgROefU4rDsJzFkTEXCGV-ApIHaWIiK3m_Py5ElhWsZXaE7PWZAK-fKAnskr8pTo/s640/Lake+Charlotte.jpg" title="Lake Charlotte" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Charlotte</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">We
headed to the Lord’s Point, which is a two minutes walk from the Lake to
witness the beautiful sunset.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDeyrV-v88sgxFrZ7Xc_VaLt_qBPpceI1jGz5j8NhPnHqlgFTf75s3C0X32j-Krq5xokWPGlVrncTlBfyUyw0RBQ_eV-3LrhFZ2nW3d_c6qGB3xKaVN2YLkLdotR2XFu-HBTI5IfhqNM/s1600/Sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sunset at Lord's Point" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDeyrV-v88sgxFrZ7Xc_VaLt_qBPpceI1jGz5j8NhPnHqlgFTf75s3C0X32j-Krq5xokWPGlVrncTlBfyUyw0RBQ_eV-3LrhFZ2nW3d_c6qGB3xKaVN2YLkLdotR2XFu-HBTI5IfhqNM/s640/Sunset.jpg" title="Sunset at Lord's Point" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at Lord's Point</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The
sun was a blazing orange and was heading down giving way to the dark night.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSTFbJiGipW6SIAuXygsKKmrkPwk4To7oCG9v2GJQB4c1e5C6pvJPsyTOEhFtTeiyJPujlzNXg_Qrq3deUsNO3ae7rIDY2m48xhKWlqLg4WXau5u9Ne1VSQhGeQoeNdrsqHuNxnpHwHE/s1600/View+at+Lord%2527s+Point.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View from Lord's Point" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSTFbJiGipW6SIAuXygsKKmrkPwk4To7oCG9v2GJQB4c1e5C6pvJPsyTOEhFtTeiyJPujlzNXg_Qrq3deUsNO3ae7rIDY2m48xhKWlqLg4WXau5u9Ne1VSQhGeQoeNdrsqHuNxnpHwHE/s640/View+at+Lord%2527s+Point.jpg" title="View from Lord's Point" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Lord's Point</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZU5ry5dNQXp5NRmp3Nx1zuwpy4WbtSyMrI2I6Ffh_OsupPm3h66MzTqsz9AlFznHKUk1EAVq-OJhtEIgJH82dHv_RUVZTibIEj3NNRSKuFzkUYGBU1wVI8kg-UcyGXmg9FSkFUbfkY8Y/s1600/Another+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Another View from Lord's Point" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZU5ry5dNQXp5NRmp3Nx1zuwpy4WbtSyMrI2I6Ffh_OsupPm3h66MzTqsz9AlFznHKUk1EAVq-OJhtEIgJH82dHv_RUVZTibIEj3NNRSKuFzkUYGBU1wVI8kg-UcyGXmg9FSkFUbfkY8Y/s640/Another+View.jpg" title="Another View from Lord's Point" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another View from Lord's Point</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Matheran
has a lot of “points” – Louisa Point, Sunset Point, Monkey Point and so on… We
dint try to cover the points. We went on a walking trail and saw the Lake and
sunset from the nearest valley there.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Don’t
worry about getting lost in the woods. If you think you are lost wait at a
crossroad, you will find someone who will guide you. Usually if you keep
walking you will either end up at some “point” or you will find yourself back
in the market. It’s like all road leads to Matheran Market. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtlx32Pr78rC4_c1fzNfVTx0s7mc_2wa9IORoW25elwBSxkwKEZgt32Ham2o5IXL-sJ5OcRQWDDAOwGgYQPXXiePHh2XHEf1Ebp_RZyVKH1Y9HTovxLP2KeuZSujFBcyRa9vxVhY_1ln8/s1600/Horses+ready+for+ride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Horses ready for a ride" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtlx32Pr78rC4_c1fzNfVTx0s7mc_2wa9IORoW25elwBSxkwKEZgt32Ham2o5IXL-sJ5OcRQWDDAOwGgYQPXXiePHh2XHEf1Ebp_RZyVKH1Y9HTovxLP2KeuZSujFBcyRa9vxVhY_1ln8/s640/Horses+ready+for+ride.jpg" title="Horses ready for a ride" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horses ready for a ride</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Since
there was still time for dinner, we had time to leisurely take a stroll along
the famous and long main market road again. Even after the sunset it was not cold, a thin sweater or even a full sleeves t-shirt was comfortable.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
tried some really economical sunglasses, some kolhapuri chappals, looked for
some lunch box jute bags, ate corn, feed some hungry dogs Parle-G biscuits and
finally made our way back to the hotel. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3B8H4MDPwYCvHBI9ryChQUt7_OVV8qBObv8hKaegGjmcohtmEpO54Yueys5mtSq0Gs5EjnDnzQV93tLeZuN-lM2svU58peUuALWOAt0CwzANWuyFlxWivYwezRq9mDZkwKaxmXIUsP4U/s1600/Corn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Corn at the main market of Matheran" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3B8H4MDPwYCvHBI9ryChQUt7_OVV8qBObv8hKaegGjmcohtmEpO54Yueys5mtSq0Gs5EjnDnzQV93tLeZuN-lM2svU58peUuALWOAt0CwzANWuyFlxWivYwezRq9mDZkwKaxmXIUsP4U/s640/Corn.jpg" title="Corn at the main market of Matheran" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corn at the main market of Matheran</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The
hotel was playing some really slow and beautiful bollywood songs and we tried
some ball dancing (tried). Next was a part which we truly enjoyed – table tennis.
We tried our hands at table tennis and must have played for two hours or so.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">By
then my shoes sole had given away and we again went back to the market to get the
same fixed. Since the cobbler asked for Rs 200 to fix the sole, we decided to
buy two fevi-quick and take care of the shoe sole onour own. (All done in Rs.
12). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">With
the shoe now stuck we had a fulfilling dinner and gulab jamun and two hours
long heated discussion on various topics. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Once
back in the room we all settled in bed and dozed off in no time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Pramod
was expecting or should I say hoping to see fog early morning. He got up early
and peeped out – quite disheartened he went back to sleep after seeing there is
no fog. We all got up quite late, each trying to wake the other person.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Matheran to
Mumbai<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Finally
around nine we were up and started getting ready. After breakfast we again
tried our hands on table tennis (we all liked this game). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Nikki
had to attend a wedding in Colaba in the evening and was in hurry to be back
home. After playing Table tennis for a while we started our trek back to
Dasturi. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
again enjoyed our trek back and clicked some pictures. Once in Dasturi we took
a shared cab and were back to Neral Station. After waiting for few minutes we
boarded a slow train to Thane. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0CQtmJJqk2XNM12fLP0Xl4UJsdP6oOtdv-z9c9bc6KR6-Gqgyww21bl44WoxeVw6QyO6V5rlsl7Kpv2eci76cATWap-cFPhElAhl6sKF3_caxhyphenhyphenG7HI5I7cVAHTgSH6f-l6RjaU_LvU/s1600/The+4+Monkeys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The 4 Monkeys" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0CQtmJJqk2XNM12fLP0Xl4UJsdP6oOtdv-z9c9bc6KR6-Gqgyww21bl44WoxeVw6QyO6V5rlsl7Kpv2eci76cATWap-cFPhElAhl6sKF3_caxhyphenhyphenG7HI5I7cVAHTgSH6f-l6RjaU_LvU/s640/The+4+Monkeys.jpg" title="The 4 Monkeys" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 4 Monkeys</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Pramod
got off at Dombivili and Nikki and I boarded another slow train from Thane for
Ghatkopar. From Ghatkopar we took the metro and were back home.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Matheran
is a hill station which is very close to Mumbai and Pune and thus very popular
as a weekend destination. It is an eco-sensitive hill station and is a no
vehicle zone. Have you seen any other hill station where vehicles are not allowed?
Monsoons and winters are two good season to visit the hills at Matheran. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The red mud of Matheran will stick to your clothes and shoes so be ready to wash it separately. Be sure to wear comfortable and study shoes as there is lot of walking in Matheran and there is no plain roads. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">If you want to try your hands on horse riding - this is the place. You will see loads of beautiful horses in Matheran, you can cover various points on horses too. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">One point that I want to make is that even though we were travelling with less amount of cash, we din't face any difficulty. The hotel is equipped with payment through plastic money, train tickets were taken through smart cards and metro was traveled with access card. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">It
is always a pleasure to visit Matheran and it should be on your list too if you
have not been to Matheran till now. </span><br />
<br /></div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Matheran, Maharashtra, India18.9886587 73.27117900000007518.928600699999997 73.190498000000076 19.0487167 73.351860000000073tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-58777547773591750902016-11-07T16:51:00.001+05:302016-11-07T16:51:42.818+05:30Rajahmundry - Random Clicks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My friend recently went to his home town, Rajahmundry (Andhra Pradesh) and shared few clicks with me.<br />
<br />
I thought why not share these clicks with you all...<br />
<br />
So here we go :<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9PLVnIOJyYQAzG5hS2eldMV0epWyKR_20Qb6Ey3c7Md2BmpatCsQrSE4xjwZaPlto13ohE8gc34gxkJyrcSH3yGnZnkw2y3eg0X82UJhwIcVKZvRMidR1-ohKVilIYWOGnTuDOSosSI/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9PLVnIOJyYQAzG5hS2eldMV0epWyKR_20Qb6Ey3c7Md2BmpatCsQrSE4xjwZaPlto13ohE8gc34gxkJyrcSH3yGnZnkw2y3eg0X82UJhwIcVKZvRMidR1-ohKVilIYWOGnTuDOSosSI/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0011.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Village Road</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIetZtFzgzHXPzKM2DWAGH_p893peerGCHY1iZ8OP0_0y4nEQ6mvqZTzrZ347ayxQ7aaHa9ck0lH0a3Z-bMACBrVZ6CEZsBajNXlyTEgJU2ouXdiAh2rfcJlK-HQT3pMhfqX7nP9iM-co/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIetZtFzgzHXPzKM2DWAGH_p893peerGCHY1iZ8OP0_0y4nEQ6mvqZTzrZ347ayxQ7aaHa9ck0lH0a3Z-bMACBrVZ6CEZsBajNXlyTEgJU2ouXdiAh2rfcJlK-HQT3pMhfqX7nP9iM-co/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0012.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holy bath taken in Godavari</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlE8B18dHwN0nGR9oFZK1N0jv1vV8uXhY5KOBMnkBu2Sjz_05UhqIxZemuXwhZEgySv1T-o7J2g-reVKLdGO5QfCXPGX37so68X7_kVjwJkT8agBiNJ-HbGPxEzZ5IAPPq8j8YTfuOVk/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlE8B18dHwN0nGR9oFZK1N0jv1vV8uXhY5KOBMnkBu2Sjz_05UhqIxZemuXwhZEgySv1T-o7J2g-reVKLdGO5QfCXPGX37so68X7_kVjwJkT8agBiNJ-HbGPxEzZ5IAPPq8j8YTfuOVk/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rail cum Road Bridge - longest of its kind in Asia and second longest in the World</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0SuCLe7Tl1uitORXU1W_sAcIc6uTIL-OWcagB9ph6yhvyLm9D9ukuRlE8HdepRMAxQghAFiCuzQKGkhS45FMzMqPu9K3jR2qdcLmqIuRmmBhvQOlELhCiQg4ScI5JQjZtHH_qI3IyME/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0SuCLe7Tl1uitORXU1W_sAcIc6uTIL-OWcagB9ph6yhvyLm9D9ukuRlE8HdepRMAxQghAFiCuzQKGkhS45FMzMqPu9K3jR2qdcLmqIuRmmBhvQOlELhCiQg4ScI5JQjZtHH_qI3IyME/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0014.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Havelock Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCySlnrP1HZZTTFxc_sGvtO06UM1lEa78fBZXnV-Syjky7U-zMYnVaSlDmalIK5KuIA3GG9ACTWIMnySZ8rxrGHztfgcb3xT_i2TzVBGKVVc4reOKRf-KwxZZxDOySfqXVNknYEEskik/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCySlnrP1HZZTTFxc_sGvtO06UM1lEa78fBZXnV-Syjky7U-zMYnVaSlDmalIK5KuIA3GG9ACTWIMnySZ8rxrGHztfgcb3xT_i2TzVBGKVVc4reOKRf-KwxZZxDOySfqXVNknYEEskik/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0015.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A View of Godavari</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qjjLkpRTKRA9TLhhbNpww18L2UeCveBKg4iQxRWkYhsy8z0xU3yMvMnJnr__4XKmn0T35QKFegfMDLUbmoUpHQBrIas1lB9FN5SZLkoOng143kl-Xy8TwJtsmGNvogB432XxOnoybbQ/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qjjLkpRTKRA9TLhhbNpww18L2UeCveBKg4iQxRWkYhsy8z0xU3yMvMnJnr__4XKmn0T35QKFegfMDLUbmoUpHQBrIas1lB9FN5SZLkoOng143kl-Xy8TwJtsmGNvogB432XxOnoybbQ/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0016.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake next to his house</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwcjU994wP_ezwP43JUdJnZoKN48FFlmCWgnbANhN9MnrEy8qyMSAE-wQQuflEJSnib2chJl2suJwM8aw6jViGfSI8-h_PWGwiIvm78ynFfpaYh53Hs0bC0Wd7NrDrHxAW_gdieRx01C0/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwcjU994wP_ezwP43JUdJnZoKN48FFlmCWgnbANhN9MnrEy8qyMSAE-wQQuflEJSnib2chJl2suJwM8aw6jViGfSI8-h_PWGwiIvm78ynFfpaYh53Hs0bC0Wd7NrDrHxAW_gdieRx01C0/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farm View</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimRLBupyuoI4e1uiUnr85_O-syK6glk6fjtUzJtFPY87MLr9trl8OW-WvBIh8AO2tV2HTOppjtJpakJQlXOpzFhjtK4NRKQr_AJPq__5R2px0jfP8ru3EIVBHoC1aDxk8TQEGDn0-NXfQ/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimRLBupyuoI4e1uiUnr85_O-syK6glk6fjtUzJtFPY87MLr9trl8OW-WvBIh8AO2tV2HTOppjtJpakJQlXOpzFhjtK4NRKQr_AJPq__5R2px0jfP8ru3EIVBHoC1aDxk8TQEGDn0-NXfQ/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0018.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another Farm View</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibdMuXu0EUCU8g1UGlHYPBpN08eRAiYa7xmhJamJjQEpLUdH0x920PNHeq30-7RGDg9Wp8cs8szG8pLDK42wVfkJCi55FRHI_Ty8n4e_rmHDHHsl5lWBMKRupvjUZ9SHpztOaR-asBqXQ/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibdMuXu0EUCU8g1UGlHYPBpN08eRAiYa7xmhJamJjQEpLUdH0x920PNHeq30-7RGDg9Wp8cs8szG8pLDK42wVfkJCi55FRHI_Ty8n4e_rmHDHHsl5lWBMKRupvjUZ9SHpztOaR-asBqXQ/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0022.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A View of the Sky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3_91hN_nC9FRhTqurb9m-H4aC6G7OAW69JbRt_Qx72E350L2eHLK-Wz08YwHAI2S5SRa_EsrZopGZIwGrlEykVN_mSUsPHFYXgflnocMbjvJMs2eNh78PL6usCm8oo8YZPvXMAdVQ4g/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3_91hN_nC9FRhTqurb9m-H4aC6G7OAW69JbRt_Qx72E350L2eHLK-Wz08YwHAI2S5SRa_EsrZopGZIwGrlEykVN_mSUsPHFYXgflnocMbjvJMs2eNh78PL6usCm8oo8YZPvXMAdVQ4g/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0023.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing for the evening Godavari Aarti</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaI0-gYvpm45e10QL4fJsM5F16pwzyOuC_fBjMwzjSxQ0lZiJfnH8JdJzqi0BIi1szK0fNZ8Z6Eq8OFV3WOm1Z0-Qs3L24hN9BOg1C0HUVIVS2Y8GuLrjuY74-0Mj9WWppTGkPkp1hta0/s1600/IMG-20161106-WA0024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaI0-gYvpm45e10QL4fJsM5F16pwzyOuC_fBjMwzjSxQ0lZiJfnH8JdJzqi0BIi1szK0fNZ8Z6Eq8OFV3WOm1Z0-Qs3L24hN9BOg1C0HUVIVS2Y8GuLrjuY74-0Mj9WWppTGkPkp1hta0/s640/IMG-20161106-WA0024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fishing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Pictures Courtesy : Satish Ganni<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, India17.0005383 81.80403449999994316.757564799999997 81.481310999999948 17.2435118 82.126757999999938tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-47432040963450132222016-10-18T13:25:00.000+05:302016-10-18T13:25:08.679+05:30Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Did
you know that around 60 kms from Mumbai on there is an ancient Shiva Rock
Temple.. A temple which is around 1000 years old..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Ok,
another question…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Have
you heard about this place called Ambarnath near Mumbai?? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">I
guess you would have… It’s one of the areas on the central line which is seeing
a major real estate boom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Now,
my question is have you ever wondered from where the name Ambarnath has come
from? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Ok,
let me help you. Lets break this word into two – Ambar + Nath = Ambarnath. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Ambar
is a hindi word which means Sky and Nath means Lord or Protector. When you
combine the two, it means the “Lord of the Sky”, i.e. Shiva.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMnSIiuRM3RlByeTDvLJZyYTqwvCxPfKV20itvzzh7i1dv4ntKZfsyEBV8W_s_J7m-lIi8m4yyQnEkSWIawRkLgCmkoBM4ZIAJdhrRKvLwnWXpaXKgNC7ipqY5YdhyeVCv_yQe8uHmRo/s1600/IMG_20160828_101452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMnSIiuRM3RlByeTDvLJZyYTqwvCxPfKV20itvzzh7i1dv4ntKZfsyEBV8W_s_J7m-lIi8m4yyQnEkSWIawRkLgCmkoBM4ZIAJdhrRKvLwnWXpaXKgNC7ipqY5YdhyeVCv_yQe8uHmRo/s640/IMG_20160828_101452.jpg" title="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The First Look</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0DkdHVdpBDtEWhHzeeocac9v7ukrFp03WXRky3QzB15Syar9Gt3GAsM76IQuL7WcXO_FCKV5bAOXQwVpVd6rVQbPy0I9mnP4eyD2I4dMjEv7hmEG_kLXYR0-RbXJdyoeCgdRAbiTb08/s1600/IMG_20160828_101651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw0DkdHVdpBDtEWhHzeeocac9v7ukrFp03WXRky3QzB15Syar9Gt3GAsM76IQuL7WcXO_FCKV5bAOXQwVpVd6rVQbPy0I9mnP4eyD2I4dMjEv7hmEG_kLXYR0-RbXJdyoeCgdRAbiTb08/s640/IMG_20160828_101651.jpg" title="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Ambarnath
has derived its name from the ancient Shiva Temple known as The Ambareshwar
Temple. The temple is a beautifully carved rock temple is said to be built in 1060 A.D.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">As
you climb few steps, you will see a stone carved Nandi Bull. Once you seek his
blessings you enter the main hall of the temple. You will find many stone
carvings of various deities inside the hall. There are beautifully carved
pillars in the main hall. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8om-FmynWglHr2adHc5MzBzHB5BfgnCuK0trVoGVC3JCNsF8WFx_64UCVkYDqO_KAhqh_HDIvotDzGKSxmchNAy__F5Sf7a2sYkNFjnMfihwNvdMYViUwaIZcfAZnDRULxYefst_aRc/s1600/IMG-20160828-WA0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nandi Bull" border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8om-FmynWglHr2adHc5MzBzHB5BfgnCuK0trVoGVC3JCNsF8WFx_64UCVkYDqO_KAhqh_HDIvotDzGKSxmchNAy__F5Sf7a2sYkNFjnMfihwNvdMYViUwaIZcfAZnDRULxYefst_aRc/s640/IMG-20160828-WA0030.jpg" title="Nandi Bull" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nandi Bull</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoW7aAtCR9yAbTvX8uSnkAH9GuU6i7cGRC-sJ6izTlrJtHU6qLBYQuJ7-m-DvZ83wf90PcXBw-OYYTf2LXLDsakunqE-87evxEpiXJZU59AWjJs0qlT43K7rirhr_jSxp0cSzOzfO1zA/s1600/IMG_20160828_102827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoW7aAtCR9yAbTvX8uSnkAH9GuU6i7cGRC-sJ6izTlrJtHU6qLBYQuJ7-m-DvZ83wf90PcXBw-OYYTf2LXLDsakunqE-87evxEpiXJZU59AWjJs0qlT43K7rirhr_jSxp0cSzOzfO1zA/s640/IMG_20160828_102827.jpg" title="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Ganpati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: palatino linotype, serif;">There
are around 20 steps that one needs to step down to enter the main sanctum.
That’s where the Shiva Linga is placed. The main sanctum is open to the sky
and the Shiva Linga is placed right in the middle.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">When we went down the main sanctum, two men were sitting in a meditative pose and chanting "Om Nameh Shivai". The chanting in the sanctum gave a whole different feel to it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnbvQxiytIelh0MuNlfQgHc-L8byBUam3-dupuc6HWXekAnPXXMmTwOMivYrax4BEJGTfuV0vSRgggHrnshyphenhyphenxQcySDMldAvRPVmSxTtcQK052-9-tTfDFNVc72QyFvd66I6WMQGquXkJs/s1600/IMG_20160828_101816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnbvQxiytIelh0MuNlfQgHc-L8byBUam3-dupuc6HWXekAnPXXMmTwOMivYrax4BEJGTfuV0vSRgggHrnshyphenhyphenxQcySDMldAvRPVmSxTtcQK052-9-tTfDFNVc72QyFvd66I6WMQGquXkJs/s640/IMG_20160828_101816.jpg" title="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't it beautiful???</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdg2xWVn5sfR5j81WN4Yn9_uH2jq73HSQJDZHV9XkrfhQK6aowUFQZF8T9NLJpP6OD49o9fOyht0NHRZ28NAoVMOAXGVi6xKXG13YnfOuz20NsPSK-JI9V5iE4MDJgXtiE0U-esSJyqY/s1600/IMG_20160828_102623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdg2xWVn5sfR5j81WN4Yn9_uH2jq73HSQJDZHV9XkrfhQK6aowUFQZF8T9NLJpP6OD49o9fOyht0NHRZ28NAoVMOAXGVi6xKXG13YnfOuz20NsPSK-JI9V5iE4MDJgXtiE0U-esSJyqY/s640/IMG_20160828_102623.jpg" title="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Intricate!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgETGcKFS6BpuQLaFbHwqMjNhNf1IRDzNvCp9IPLuAn8FQa0zcQNTkVqizKVz45_Y6CwjZpb_C2TKgXnlS4ciEgRZZMwlb90oMjC5pvoOYZbVM9IX_JAZiHtq_7bci_hQM_ol8y216GC2w/s1600/IMG_20160828_102848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgETGcKFS6BpuQLaFbHwqMjNhNf1IRDzNvCp9IPLuAn8FQa0zcQNTkVqizKVz45_Y6CwjZpb_C2TKgXnlS4ciEgRZZMwlb90oMjC5pvoOYZbVM9IX_JAZiHtq_7bci_hQM_ol8y216GC2w/s640/IMG_20160828_102848.jpg" title="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carvings up close!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">The
temple is not very huge but the entire temple is carved and its fascinating to
see such minute details and carvings. The temple is maintained well and is neat
and tidy. You will find few shops selling prasads and other pooja items near
the temple compound.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_p0g-AXZ_eZfLeq9aSUV4xBpU_eo5j9DE2DJLlxpF8YhrPIEbK0rczfQub5PpxiPbB0SZcXPb5gQ2CDBzpqV502e8LFaIHXlFnPC85uW1vkY4IKQGw1eCc_eXyAo-8WrZSC8lzYUsSXg/s1600/IMG_20160828_103235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_p0g-AXZ_eZfLeq9aSUV4xBpU_eo5j9DE2DJLlxpF8YhrPIEbK0rczfQub5PpxiPbB0SZcXPb5gQ2CDBzpqV502e8LFaIHXlFnPC85uW1vkY4IKQGw1eCc_eXyAo-8WrZSC8lzYUsSXg/s640/IMG_20160828_103235.jpg" title="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't forget to take a round of the temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cCZe-0nRIE18KYkxo5xQvyZx260f8tfw9lDuAVLNAQd4j6c9VtRk0K-07E9k9Ek_ivskarkYJqbzAXtHbopo0kF2tr5qewWaRVmA6xX9Bt8nDz8YY5Dy2zr7QtPUUa46sgwDFJG3m0w/s1600/At+the+temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cCZe-0nRIE18KYkxo5xQvyZx260f8tfw9lDuAVLNAQd4j6c9VtRk0K-07E9k9Ek_ivskarkYJqbzAXtHbopo0kF2tr5qewWaRVmA6xX9Bt8nDz8YY5Dy2zr7QtPUUa46sgwDFJG3m0w/s640/At+the+temple.jpg" title="Ambareshwar Temple, Ambarnath" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple at the background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Now
I want to ask one more question – Did you know that Mumbai has a Birla Temple
in its outskirts??</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Seriously,
we do have one.. Here, see a glimpse.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAOQk0EGUqF9xmHfUbO-5S7X7X2UaIXyAjiAuX5uTTwUKNl7aBGCAIxpYvNDAEgTc9_q4VQXF7TJyVsYV16yRyktaL2ab4huHfICKCd9ohyphenhyphenz7e9RjoqLwsCTwQyWwY4EgcpS6iktzee8/s1600/Birla+Temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Birla Temple, Shahad" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAOQk0EGUqF9xmHfUbO-5S7X7X2UaIXyAjiAuX5uTTwUKNl7aBGCAIxpYvNDAEgTc9_q4VQXF7TJyVsYV16yRyktaL2ab4huHfICKCd9ohyphenhyphenz7e9RjoqLwsCTwQyWwY4EgcpS6iktzee8/s640/Birla+Temple.jpg" title="Birla Temple, Shahad" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birla Temple, Shahad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">There
is a beautiful Birla Temple in Shahad. The temple has the idol of Vithoba and
has a serene charm attached to it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Cameras
and mobile phones are not allowed inside the temple. The temple is neat and
tidy and is very well maintained. It’s one place where you can sit and
meditate. This temple for sure brings peace </span><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">:) </span></div>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Ambernath, Maharashtra, India19.1825167 73.19260229999997619.0625532 73.031240799999978 19.3024802 73.353963799999974tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-16380707821018409812016-10-12T15:48:00.003+05:302016-10-12T15:48:49.726+05:30Chandra Taal – Rohtang Pass – Manali – Chandigarh <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">DAY
9 - CHANDRATAAL- BATAL- CHATRU- GRAMPHOO- ROHTANG PASS- MANALI<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">It was time for the final leg
of our trip. We all got up really early in the morning. Wore our socks, shoes,
caps, jacket - packed our bags and were out of the tents. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">I was greeted by a bright
morning today. The early morning view of the mighty mountain tops with the gold
tinged blue sky was overwhelming. I felt the cold wind just as I stepped out of
the tent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoQaQSF9UqtqS2C8bhO-beKZ3CCS3GuI7cN_SczrqayABf0UVavrLZrLInWSmJPH_fGKj2NxgamhFz8WTFbZLLXDM0fCdRBVIVO6P1bnnsryppvDfZgWV2gFItbA8GPTj_cvB6LIWDAmA/s1600/Tents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tents at Chandrataal - Our stay" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoQaQSF9UqtqS2C8bhO-beKZ3CCS3GuI7cN_SczrqayABf0UVavrLZrLInWSmJPH_fGKj2NxgamhFz8WTFbZLLXDM0fCdRBVIVO6P1bnnsryppvDfZgWV2gFItbA8GPTj_cvB6LIWDAmA/s640/Tents.jpg" title="Tents at Chandrataal - Our stay" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tents at Chandrataal - Our stay</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">The water was freezing cold; I
had a tough time brushing my teeth. We had hot tea and some biscuits while our
luggage was getting loaded in our car. We clicked few pics and drunk in the
mesmerizing view.. oh it was so BEAUTIFUL!!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPd-5yMNZ6G8Fd-Z4pmoqlsToWGi4AY2rS3iy-rDOa73BU0y7zzpDCAfYYL998adYWPLvaweRja2BHRrMrgZIA97zg2O76MKvNrIP8dF_BTr8BEj0E0BXRDtTbenOhUlTAD3W1l7RbdSY/s1600/Beautiful+drive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPd-5yMNZ6G8Fd-Z4pmoqlsToWGi4AY2rS3iy-rDOa73BU0y7zzpDCAfYYL998adYWPLvaweRja2BHRrMrgZIA97zg2O76MKvNrIP8dF_BTr8BEj0E0BXRDtTbenOhUlTAD3W1l7RbdSY/s640/Beautiful+drive.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Once in the car we headed to
Manali. Manali was our last stop on this trip. We have been to Manali before..
when we did our road trip to Ladakh in 2011. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Today we were going to cross
Rohtang Pass to reach Manali and few nallas (water streams on the roads) that
are interspersed with small rocks. One of the reason we started early was that
it is easy to cross these nallas in the morning as the ice doesn’t start
melting and hence water flowing is less. As the day progresses, the glaciers
melts and the flow of water increases, thus the chances of the car getting
stuck increases. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJiHnU7msW4rQKfFfPo_MPr8Pe36g0yzmWamRl3CjmUcKFbO5_CSaGSJJC_P1DeELk3qUxduBCaFTd9gj_d1PWQXHMChouhmpHihc2S4b_gToBK9atxsZWvpQP7uH3vm0PyzEOogESIU/s1600/Drive+to+Manali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJiHnU7msW4rQKfFfPo_MPr8Pe36g0yzmWamRl3CjmUcKFbO5_CSaGSJJC_P1DeELk3qUxduBCaFTd9gj_d1PWQXHMChouhmpHihc2S4b_gToBK9atxsZWvpQP7uH3vm0PyzEOogESIU/s640/Drive+to+Manali.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Today for the entire drive from
Chandrataal to Manali there were no road at all, it was an adventurous drive.
We had to get off a couple of times so that it is easier for our driver (better
ground clearance of the car) to cross the nallah. Trust me you have to be ready
good on the wheels in order to cross this. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Hd3wbKXiJ7p8UemjMMrnnN4XE9hyHh21OZd-d2JVHyph7wiBiE_tlS9NjZWpx8JyhxtGF1mHGALtmDEsihdmowL2ARzK5uI-AIKUf8l9mlrrPqVDfoQO46gBGh0Qf84NhSX9TXc_IMA/s1600/Chandrataal+to+Manali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandrataal to Manali" border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Hd3wbKXiJ7p8UemjMMrnnN4XE9hyHh21OZd-d2JVHyph7wiBiE_tlS9NjZWpx8JyhxtGF1mHGALtmDEsihdmowL2ARzK5uI-AIKUf8l9mlrrPqVDfoQO46gBGh0Qf84NhSX9TXc_IMA/s640/Chandrataal+to+Manali.jpg" title="Chandrataal to Manali" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chandrataal to Manali</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">Enroute there are few amazing
views of snow top mountain peaks with clouds hovering at the top of the peaks.
It look so awesome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">As we approach Rohtang Pass,
greenery starts to appear and the dry mountains disappear gradually. You could
see loads of waterfalls in mountains on the opposite side. In fact, it became a
game for us.. who will spot the waterfall first!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3FczlHyjzTqGRbE2M0kFyyhem6LnMLyPXSMuNUGVtdUXSobvUiKBPnM41kwZPwPfzZXN42M08iPY_Wl_3FN3uHshQFGvIK-GSNHR6jsLRVVvSwQRnd93iCMwd9s70U3NaIGUSq0ED2lo/s1600/Enroute+Manali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enroute Manali" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3FczlHyjzTqGRbE2M0kFyyhem6LnMLyPXSMuNUGVtdUXSobvUiKBPnM41kwZPwPfzZXN42M08iPY_Wl_3FN3uHshQFGvIK-GSNHR6jsLRVVvSwQRnd93iCMwd9s70U3NaIGUSq0ED2lo/s640/Enroute+Manali.jpg" title="Enroute Manali" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute Manali</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">Btw another game that we have
played during our entire trip was spot the hot-wheels cars.. During our entire
trip there were few cars we had seen.. so if we ever saw any cars at a distant
mountain we will show the other people in the car.. “see there is a hot-wheel
car” and we all will be busy try to spot the next one first.. Gosh what all we
do on trips..</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">So, just when we crossed
Gramphu the climb to Rohtang Pass starts.. The road which goes to Leh joins us
after a while. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsGI41XfcMzmMu4vghvxGeUILUiUvjqogcIsk-0TTAHwIUk6myMuj8gxX0ffm2f6L3cMJOI_dWxnzNa7_2qP5dFP6XUEsFpz4oDtwh4RIrP-yrMrI2Mr3duufjd5I-zavPyHv92M5Q3c/s1600/Somewhere.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsGI41XfcMzmMu4vghvxGeUILUiUvjqogcIsk-0TTAHwIUk6myMuj8gxX0ffm2f6L3cMJOI_dWxnzNa7_2qP5dFP6XUEsFpz4oDtwh4RIrP-yrMrI2Mr3duufjd5I-zavPyHv92M5Q3c/s640/Somewhere.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">When we were approaching
Rohtang Pass, the first thing we saw was the number of cars parked there.. it
was astounding… there were so many cars and so many tourists.. it looked like
Dadar station at peak hours. After spending so many days in serenity total
deprived of people Rohtang Pass was a nightmare.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">None of us wanted to stop at
Rohtang and therefore we headed straight to Manali. The road from Rohtang Pass
to Manali is a very smooth ride, full of greenery. It felt good to the eyes –
seeing greenery after so many days.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWn7OU0tMXBdlqQsWK3-3wStyCCQYSfa8PV3GzzuVim8pCa3D6c2MhwoaazXvNFxANBAltdy7RqePnTOpkkeutDe4H8AuJRG0GPznlApUqlcVH_T-F1HMcnJkgSD_6aYTiWYFDxMhGInU/s1600/Towards+Rohtang+Pass.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Towards Rohtang Pass, Manali" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWn7OU0tMXBdlqQsWK3-3wStyCCQYSfa8PV3GzzuVim8pCa3D6c2MhwoaazXvNFxANBAltdy7RqePnTOpkkeutDe4H8AuJRG0GPznlApUqlcVH_T-F1HMcnJkgSD_6aYTiWYFDxMhGInU/s640/Towards+Rohtang+Pass.JPG" title="Towards Rohtang Pass, Manali" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Towards Rohtang Pass</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">We saw few people trying their
hands at paragliding.. Our hotel was in Old Manali and was a treat to the eyes.
After so many days of bare minimum existence we were staying at a hotel which
seemed like luxury at the moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYBDqzwnY7IFv1h0Sgl94PIQX1-DLkUGyX6qp1EBlye30Xh5AZAnlfVXhbBQJFbmnHmpEUgWfNmIdVlODBykh02cEEsC2b-zxthCdZZra9OV-tj0Q-vduyntP2ytihQNvVJGA2eY64HY/s1600/Paragliding.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Paragliding near Rohtang Pass, Manali" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYBDqzwnY7IFv1h0Sgl94PIQX1-DLkUGyX6qp1EBlye30Xh5AZAnlfVXhbBQJFbmnHmpEUgWfNmIdVlODBykh02cEEsC2b-zxthCdZZra9OV-tj0Q-vduyntP2ytihQNvVJGA2eY64HY/s640/Paragliding.JPG" title="Paragliding near Rohtang Pass, Manali" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paragliding near Rohtang Pass, Manali</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">Old Manali has a very hippy
feel.. you will feel as if you have come to Goa. After taking a nice long hot
water bath, watching some TV (after so many days), we headed out for a late
lunch.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">After a very delicious lunch we
walked towards Hadimba Temple. It was a nice long walk where we passed through
a forest area filled with long pine trees. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Hadimba Temple is an ancient
cave temple and is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba who was a sister of demon
Hadimb who ruled these mountains and was feared by all. The temple does not
have any idol, just a foot print on a stone. Bhima (one of the Pandavas)
married Hadimba and had a son named Ghatotkachh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCx74Mo6Yc3r86jJhn9PrQRdF1BO0qonG16Y9_903vHWhMmx8LBCdypcD98PpVBlRr3hoeOAYT2tUwOljacngbTDUMDoV__9BIEDqM34XSQyqs0CghMYtXoPovLexaaNsUUu78jdjgEk/s1600/Hadimba+Temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hadimba Temple, Manali" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCx74Mo6Yc3r86jJhn9PrQRdF1BO0qonG16Y9_903vHWhMmx8LBCdypcD98PpVBlRr3hoeOAYT2tUwOljacngbTDUMDoV__9BIEDqM34XSQyqs0CghMYtXoPovLexaaNsUUu78jdjgEk/s640/Hadimba+Temple.JPG" title="Hadimba Temple, Manali" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hadimba Temple, Manali</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">There was a small queue and
after a visit to the temple we headed to Mall Road of Manali. Again after
walking for a while (actually walking for a very long time) we reached the Mall
Road. We wanted to do some shopping but the entire Mall Road was packed with
people. After all it was the tourist season. We strolled for a while and then
hailed a rick and headed back to our hotel.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3X85J2vhyphenhyphen3CnYRvntTNCXZzEuj-VYWyICd4vZPmnrNiLMz_y4G_PKt3YSYxHV0jSvnPKXOuG-Yi8KbjSScwj6X6OUHrSL2CP_mWHmB27VQGpErwqM9mQYbSIycmS44m10LWf-J3ZvY04/s1600/13876517_10154303108945874_7309243678024863022_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hadimba Temple, Manali" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3X85J2vhyphenhyphen3CnYRvntTNCXZzEuj-VYWyICd4vZPmnrNiLMz_y4G_PKt3YSYxHV0jSvnPKXOuG-Yi8KbjSScwj6X6OUHrSL2CP_mWHmB27VQGpErwqM9mQYbSIycmS44m10LWf-J3ZvY04/s640/13876517_10154303108945874_7309243678024863022_n.jpg" title="Hadimba Temple, Manali" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of us at Hadimba Temple, Manali</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">We called for food in our room
and had a simple dinner. We decided to call it an early night as all of us were
tired after travelling for long hours on mountainous roads.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">DAY
10 - MANALI- KULLU- MANDI- CHANDIGARH- MUMBAI <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Today
was the last day of our trip.. and with that we will complete our circuit. We
had to catch a 7:00 pm flight for Mumbai from Chandigarh Airport. We had
thought that we could start for Chandigarh around 9:00 am after a scrumptious
breakfast. But our driver had insisted that we leave early as the route from
Manali to Chandigarh tends to have lot of traffic and we can get stuck in
traffic jams for hours. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Therefore,
we started really early, around 6:00 am from our hotel to Chandigarh. At that
time Manali was still sleeping; there were hardly any soul on the road when we
were exiting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikEILeYBqb_HfTkXqaaJuBLsR_gxeFaTV3HhIPBblUrJhZiy1BeUii-9JiJy5stjQXDLMHPRU59lSDcHHHXjQtl8IMFedPB3Ga11o_J5xXVhmnJ6humorAhbt-Um-lQoN1nGlat4kE9_s/s1600/manali-delhi-expressway-is-always-beautiful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Manali to Chandigarh" border="0" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikEILeYBqb_HfTkXqaaJuBLsR_gxeFaTV3HhIPBblUrJhZiy1BeUii-9JiJy5stjQXDLMHPRU59lSDcHHHXjQtl8IMFedPB3Ga11o_J5xXVhmnJ6humorAhbt-Um-lQoN1nGlat4kE9_s/s640/manali-delhi-expressway-is-always-beautiful.jpg" title="Manali to Chandigarh" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biding BYE to the Hills</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">Everyone
in the car was silent today – may be from lack of sleep or from the tiredness
of the entire trip.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">After
an hour’s drive we stopped over for breakfast at a small dhaba. After some food
went in the tummy we all started waking up so maybe we all were just plain
hungry and that’s why quiet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Well
nothing much to describe the route from Manali to Chandigarh except that it was
a comparatively smooth ride. Driving alongside the Beas River, with total
greenery around, it was a different variation from the scene we have been
seeing till now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3iU2cIgcIGG7DBMyhreALXPebJWUurrBKWSEfy89sdcpcn0K76Ifb5uGkav5OwdSojVJ1OyTDdMOKepXKFFxs8BUUJj-oBdC1uDUyFpXD19INsxYaasRnVVdZQTg0F6wNCcXUO8VOTc/s1600/awesome-Beas-view-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Beas River - Manali" border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3iU2cIgcIGG7DBMyhreALXPebJWUurrBKWSEfy89sdcpcn0K76Ifb5uGkav5OwdSojVJ1OyTDdMOKepXKFFxs8BUUJj-oBdC1uDUyFpXD19INsxYaasRnVVdZQTg0F6wNCcXUO8VOTc/s640/awesome-Beas-view-.jpg" title="Beas River - Manali" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beas River - Manali</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">The
Beas River had clear water and was flowing in full force. With green mountains
on one side and Beas River on the other side, it was a very serene and relaxing
drive.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">On
our drive we drove through a tunnel… and what an amazing experience it was. I
have never been through a tunnel this long.. it was never ending.. we must have
crossed few mountains through the tunnel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4svh9ovLkPadDSFA8hL3HBRicEGpGpKFmRqED1W50IVWtcRk_b0GWNZmE4hHiQLktr_R2MNd4SgHSe23yoGy1i2jPeFGdoBTmHXysitDtj3LWuQEUhaqGkLapsR9G8HO8nvGZa0uyQEU/s1600/beautiful-view-onway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Beas River - Manali" border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4svh9ovLkPadDSFA8hL3HBRicEGpGpKFmRqED1W50IVWtcRk_b0GWNZmE4hHiQLktr_R2MNd4SgHSe23yoGy1i2jPeFGdoBTmHXysitDtj3LWuQEUhaqGkLapsR9G8HO8nvGZa0uyQEU/s640/beautiful-view-onway.jpg" title="Beas River - Manali" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beas River - Giving us company on the drive</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif;">When
we hit the plains we realized that it’s the month of July and its summers.. It
was HOT!! After ten days we were feeling hot, we had to switch on the AC, for
the first time in our 10 day trip. It was so nice in the hills – absolutely
perfect.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">This
was the day when we did not take out the camera at all and very few clicks were
taken from our cell phones. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">I
think either we were thoroughly exhausted or we had seen much more beautiful
scenery in this trip that what we were seeing today was pretty ordinary. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">On
our way we had lunch where the definition of Dal Makhani was ¾ Butter and ¼
Dal.. Same goes for chapattis.. After all it is PUNJAB<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">We
were at the airport really early.. we had around 4 hours to kill at the
airport. After freshening, relaxing, chit chatting we decided to play our very
favourite UNO. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Trust
me, we were a sight at the airport. Everyone was staring at us… Boss we were
just playing cards.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Finally,
it was it was time for us to board.. I think ours was the last flight for the
day because when we were taxing we saw the lights of the airport being switched
off.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">After
two and a half hour flight, when we landed at the Mumbai airport we thought we
have entered a fish market. There were so many people.. I must have not seen so many people in
totality in the entire ten day trip.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">With
that I realized that we are back.. our vacation is over.. and we are back in
the mad rush.. in the rat race.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">As
I sit in the car to head home I already had frown lines on my face.. so much
crowd.. so much rush.. honking.. pushing.. oh God!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">I
have just stepped out of the airport and I feel I need a vacation already… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">This
was a trip which have made my love for Himalayas stronger.. I will for sure be
going back in few years.. I will definitely be planning a short trip to
Narkanda very soon in winters to enjoy the snow topped pine trees.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">On
my way home, I thought that the views which we saw in this trip to Kinnaur and
Spiti were mesmerizing.. and at some point make you speechless. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">The
views were beautiful, spectacular, fascinating, mesmerizing, magical, mind
blogging.. any other adjective left??? It was a life time experience because
the journey and the destination both were magical. They just cast a spell on
you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">But
I realized that apart from the journey and the destination, which were both
just out of the world.. I had the best company!! So the advice that I can give
to fellow travelers is no matter where you go… to the Himalayas or to the
turquoise blue water at Lakshadweep.. the best Company will always make you
feel the best.. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">After
all that’s what the vacations are for… to feel on top of the world!!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Points to Note:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype", serif; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Book an Innova or a Xylo
for a comfortable travel. As the roads are bad travel in Sumo or Maxx can
be cumbersome.<br />
Although the distance between places (at times) is not far because of the
rough terrain it takes a considerable time to go from one place to
another. So plan accordingly.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">It is advised to start
your day early and reach your destination while it is daylight. Please
avoid driving once the sun sets. Driving in dark can be very dangerous.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Please carry warm clothes
including sweater, jacket, cap, mufflers, socks and gloves. Wear shoes and
not sandals or chappals.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Be easy on steps and while
walking. Avoid brisk walk or running at high altitudes as the oxygen level
is low.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">If you are feeling
mountain sickness have chocolate or popcorn. It helps. Make it a point of
sipping in water regularly.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Please don’t litter and
maintain the beauty of nature.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Do stop enroute to appreciate
the view and take the blessings from the stupas and temple there.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">At Chandrataal, we stayed
at Parasol Camps. The tents are comfortable and warm. Bathrooms are not
attached and the water is chilly.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">It is very windy and cold
at Chandrataal camps specially after sun set. Do carry windsheeters and
warm clothes. Pls cover your ears.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">In Manali, we stayed at
Dragon Guesthouse, Old Manali. Its a beautiful hotel with big rooms, hot
water and good food. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Don't forget to stop over
and appreciate the views. After all the journey is as important as the
destination.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India32.2396325 77.1887145000000632.18591 77.108033500000062 32.293355 77.269395500000059tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-83231000430206029062016-09-22T17:04:00.001+05:302016-10-12T15:18:17.519+05:30Kaza – Hikkim – Komic – Langza – Kunzum Pass – Chandra Taal (14,100 Ft)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">DAY 7 - KAZA-
HIKKIM- KOMIC- LANGZA <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Today we embarked our journey
to see the other three villages near Kaza – Langza, Hikkim and Komic. All the
three villages are near each other and not very far from Kaza. The drive was
breathtaking and had relatively good roads. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0sY1Tayc03FxNdL9h19DfS2Xpfqr_qz682j6x4iKNfCJeMVR1a6qPM5CE1OCYwWbARe7TyOUKb9-QmMSA5QZVfcD_ohIFtftfUsiybeUz3v5XFI3QWY6bg4LqfGFB15DhAR8gRdtNpqM/s1600/IMG_7673+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Buddha Statue at Langza" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0sY1Tayc03FxNdL9h19DfS2Xpfqr_qz682j6x4iKNfCJeMVR1a6qPM5CE1OCYwWbARe7TyOUKb9-QmMSA5QZVfcD_ohIFtftfUsiybeUz3v5XFI3QWY6bg4LqfGFB15DhAR8gRdtNpqM/s640/IMG_7673+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Buddha Statue at Langza" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buddha Statue at Langza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We first headed to Langza which
has a big Buddha statue just above the village. The Buddha statue is beautiful
and from there you can enjoy 360 degree panoramic view. Langza is also known
for its fossil stones. You will be very lucky if you found a fossil stone lying
on the ground. If you want you can buy fossil stone which are sold by local
people.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiczsQe-ST2T9NIFbHYPVMGm9jrueczCPRqLf_M9woO8bX9khXmRu1hUD10-6ftmJMsPWrkeVPcCTnMVPfcZnt69EJQFKXyQ9qP66E3KnYEPpiJ1u8-mt9orJTsFKcsoUgXOnxZaVhZvh8/s1600/IMG_7679+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Langza - Buddha Statue" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiczsQe-ST2T9NIFbHYPVMGm9jrueczCPRqLf_M9woO8bX9khXmRu1hUD10-6ftmJMsPWrkeVPcCTnMVPfcZnt69EJQFKXyQ9qP66E3KnYEPpiJ1u8-mt9orJTsFKcsoUgXOnxZaVhZvh8/s640/IMG_7679+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Langza - Buddha Statue" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buddha Statue - Up close</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTy5G7-9hEQwE3uz4Dk6p9X3m5r8qmMEeNVzApOhktZa9E8805q53wYSsIhQB7YfCRdvwWJzSf4Orj1V-Zt4-kyCyRhhpDIqOpMu4PvNRjU1n49WERLjU7587bGW41EPY-sVgupNpXQy4/s1600/IMG_7684+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Langza" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTy5G7-9hEQwE3uz4Dk6p9X3m5r8qmMEeNVzApOhktZa9E8805q53wYSsIhQB7YfCRdvwWJzSf4Orj1V-Zt4-kyCyRhhpDIqOpMu4PvNRjU1n49WERLjU7587bGW41EPY-sVgupNpXQy4/s640/IMG_7684+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Langza " width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from up there</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Next we visited Komic, which is
blessed with two monasteries. In one monastery, ladies are not allowed. The
other monastery was quite and like other monasteries vibrant and colorful. It
is the highest village in the world with a mere 200 people living there.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4d_SQfpre5vMuvdhHDsLPHH-OEvVUouSH8QjWfHPUKh9DC8C1W0EyohmxUirQtOHJdGTaIVw-L9eQ57EU12f5L5QbCx78lqQNc0TEtpEuKR6LBcL8WVG3i4ssM4IHnimKhhK1lYXTrw/s1600/IMG_7792+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Komic Village" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4d_SQfpre5vMuvdhHDsLPHH-OEvVUouSH8QjWfHPUKh9DC8C1W0EyohmxUirQtOHJdGTaIVw-L9eQ57EU12f5L5QbCx78lqQNc0TEtpEuKR6LBcL8WVG3i4ssM4IHnimKhhK1lYXTrw/s640/IMG_7792+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Komic Village" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Komic Village</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYaNk1F2nRMa0x1l2OB_Bj6X85kmPM4sGFR_KSbLOmj-KztOi40gN8lJmHn5JrNqu80uaMkqeT6Rgci-B_k3yT3kSj9GwAhT1dcysiCxoFyW3WjABm_aRXmlK0RkJmZ1fdTkGN8UKIF8s/s1600/IMG_7786+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYaNk1F2nRMa0x1l2OB_Bj6X85kmPM4sGFR_KSbLOmj-KztOi40gN8lJmHn5JrNqu80uaMkqeT6Rgci-B_k3yT3kSj9GwAhT1dcysiCxoFyW3WjABm_aRXmlK0RkJmZ1fdTkGN8UKIF8s/s640/IMG_7786+%2528Large%2529.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's just stay here forever!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Next we headed to Hikkim, which
has the world’s highest post office. Do visit the post office and send some
post cards to your loved ones. When we went to the post office the manager had
gone to Kaza to buy post cards and stationery and his son was in-charge of the
post office. He asked us to write the required details (address, your personal
message and mobile number) on a blank page and promised us that he will send
the post card once the stationery is received.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGmrC_HPmyhNlLJa9d0eiWrMr2qxbWqAzXeam4m2ZhhWVAxRQsxfHrjQWmJRDmHCogkGS8ssP9JGhdL3lKkcXcVqpOlCE3O-gw7dlUsZ7ycbtTuHDy2ubPFyRZ2QJewURwJ_XwDfQxOk/s1600/IMG_7799+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="World's Highest Post Office at Hikkim" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGmrC_HPmyhNlLJa9d0eiWrMr2qxbWqAzXeam4m2ZhhWVAxRQsxfHrjQWmJRDmHCogkGS8ssP9JGhdL3lKkcXcVqpOlCE3O-gw7dlUsZ7ycbtTuHDy2ubPFyRZ2QJewURwJ_XwDfQxOk/s640/IMG_7799+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="World's Highest Post Office at Hikkim" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">World's Highest Post Office at Hikkim</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: left;">As promised, I did receive the post card from
Hikkim. Post card from the highest post office in the world is like a medal for
a travel lover.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Spiti is full of picturesque villages. There is
nothing much to see in these villages but to enjoy the natural beauty which I
am sure is what you came for in the first place. Serenity and pristine beauty
of the village will definitely fascinate your imagination.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After seeing these small
villages in Spiti, few questions come in my mind. How do these people endure
winters here where the temperature can go below -20 degrees? How do these
people procure food and other items? There are no shops, nothing? What do these
people do when they are visited by snow leopards in winters? There life is
tough and full of hard work but you will find everyone with a smile on their
face, happy and content. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">During the last 2 days there
were occasions we saw foreigners cycling the entire circuit (from Kaza to the
villages). In the evening we were keen to try our hands at cycling a bit. But
after a few minutes of cycling, we were out of breath!! This despite the
gradient being largely flat and only slightly inclined. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">This being our last night in
Kaza, we chatted with our hotel owner (and also trip organizer) post dinner. He
informed us that in winters, some people lock down their houses and go downhill
where it is slightly warmer. Others who stay back, are the adventurous sorts
(he being one of them). When the winter is just setting in, around December,
they invite skiing experts and start adventure sport training for a few weeks.
This is the only way they get to pass time and keep themselves occupied. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The entire of Sakya Abode (Kaza) is extremely
courteous and helpful. Though it may not be the best hotel in Kaza, in terms of
facilities, it definitely makes up for it in terms of service standards.<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">DAY 8 - KAZA-
LOHSAR- KUNZUM PASS- CHANDRATAAL LAKE <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Today
was a long day for us. We will be on road for about ten to twelve hours but we
will be travelling through one of the most beautiful scenery of Spiti Valley.
We will be crossing Kunzum Pass today to reach a high altitude lake –
Chandrataal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
started our journey early morning after a filling breakfast. The route to
Chandrataal is very beautiful with breath taking different colours of
mountains. As if a child had painted them and the teacher had not bothered to
tell that the mountains can only be a boring brown or lush green. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
Kaza, at Lohsar do grab a bite to eat, as after Lohsar till Chandrataal you
will not find any restaurant or Dhaba to eat. After Lohsar, the ascent to
Kunzum Pass starts. Roads will again vanish and the roads will be no more than
dirt tracks. From here till Rohtang Pass, there are absolutely no roads. These
will be the worst roads you have ever driven on, so be ready for it.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34L1CXKLRqS4kwVSFgVTsRZCucG23vGjZQ6PBDmK4E8Qoqp_ten5fDL1JehL6IuqwQBqvU8TvnUzCXGSeN773G7vq_lNl2fOa1aiIp_T4kFjuERJXzgeIbakPU2cuPUooNBcT3w7lcQw/s1600/IMG_7953+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="On our way to Kunzum Pass" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34L1CXKLRqS4kwVSFgVTsRZCucG23vGjZQ6PBDmK4E8Qoqp_ten5fDL1JehL6IuqwQBqvU8TvnUzCXGSeN773G7vq_lNl2fOa1aiIp_T4kFjuERJXzgeIbakPU2cuPUooNBcT3w7lcQw/s640/IMG_7953+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="On our way to Kunzum Pass" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On our way to Kunzum Pass</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Kunzum
Pass remains close for most part of the year and is open for a few months only.
It is the highest pass in the region and divides Spiti and Lahaul regions. At Kunzum Pass, you will see few stupas and
numerous colorful prayer flags fluttering, since the Pass is at a height it is
very windy and cold. There is a temple just next to the stupas. We got off at
the pass and clicked few pictures as the view from here is stunning.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kunzum Pass</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CDSBROtkXepU9fWQclmlrmR-34kHmSIHgass8cP16pFCNnTrziZqKqBXUAkMtkc0EocpH6OZb96XpHBE9mipisxL0DyN-bscxwtLrkXNIumUANE6_jd60zwKJqPOY6okj6n_g4cW6OE/s1600/IMG_8032+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Kunzum Pass" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CDSBROtkXepU9fWQclmlrmR-34kHmSIHgass8cP16pFCNnTrziZqKqBXUAkMtkc0EocpH6OZb96XpHBE9mipisxL0DyN-bscxwtLrkXNIumUANE6_jd60zwKJqPOY6okj6n_g4cW6OE/s640/IMG_8032+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Kunzum Pass" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colourful Flags at Kunzum Pass</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
spending sometime here we started again towards Chandrataal. The road was
dangerously narrow and of not too great quality. As you get closer to
Chandrataal, you will see various camping and tents accommodation. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">You
cannot take your vehicle till the lake. So we stopped our vehicle around 20
mins before the lake and started trekking towards the lake. It is windy and
therefore warm clothes are recommended. After trekking for some time we saw the
first glimpse of Chandrataal Lake. No amount of Google images could have
prepared us for the beautiful sight that lies in front of our eyes. I was
smitten by this beautiful Lake. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipv_1tDHZn-xnvAbrNXrlm92zKI9YpbX2bRnzD26P_HnWYmZlZyChwhUjMKt1CCa8AhwsWPeNavDLmy3L0QiEMeGCDodg2cwDeig6Anxayno62iR9Pj-o65tYCaeCtbRkVhl9FAgs8LpU/s1600/IMG_8035+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Trek to Chandrataal Lake" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipv_1tDHZn-xnvAbrNXrlm92zKI9YpbX2bRnzD26P_HnWYmZlZyChwhUjMKt1CCa8AhwsWPeNavDLmy3L0QiEMeGCDodg2cwDeig6Anxayno62iR9Pj-o65tYCaeCtbRkVhl9FAgs8LpU/s640/IMG_8035+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Trek to Chandrataal Lake" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trek to Chandrataal Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNarmhlokEYgRXo386E-wvrdqfEHvxhhG8RmqhtoV5CFvvQ3AgdadvjdDPcSsJT5G4AWi957wOE55xNxVB7mJTj4ofFlbF_6tOSoxYXucyuJEq-hXdE9PPBDX1jBO_604eKvcUSIRd1fA/s1600/IMG_8040+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="First glimpse of Chandrataal Lake" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNarmhlokEYgRXo386E-wvrdqfEHvxhhG8RmqhtoV5CFvvQ3AgdadvjdDPcSsJT5G4AWi957wOE55xNxVB7mJTj4ofFlbF_6tOSoxYXucyuJEq-hXdE9PPBDX1jBO_604eKvcUSIRd1fA/s640/IMG_8040+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="First glimpse of Chandrataal Lake" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First glimpse of Chandrataal Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OomEpdPtxEkY0en0poCCPEWtPABhcFjdhtZy2gqegmumrH31HZlPe9dwIUcC3l8uWW36s1UIWAZPkg2Aju8QATo1ipmkFGvd9fImSEr4KNqCvZDSrVc3f6poDvPqhmFnqmM0wmtsteI/s1600/Chandrataal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandrataal Lake" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OomEpdPtxEkY0en0poCCPEWtPABhcFjdhtZy2gqegmumrH31HZlPe9dwIUcC3l8uWW36s1UIWAZPkg2Aju8QATo1ipmkFGvd9fImSEr4KNqCvZDSrVc3f6poDvPqhmFnqmM0wmtsteI/s640/Chandrataal.JPG" title="Chandrataal Lake" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The serene Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: left;">The
lake was pristine blue, with mountains on all sides, the sand near the lake is
white and soft as talcum powder. It was sheer bliss.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRc5E7uZ5k8pfI8i_jo0knmF1yyiMSmKwAQ2waOMWINAu-JufksTbbie5IyZ1DabHcKaFjouL6Oh4I6DRPaACshE_gahXiXLZ6uuU8OOsEdpwMKdXppuF0C6Ahgw0bVxTGBqeTmOBK6pM/s1600/IMG_8067+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRc5E7uZ5k8pfI8i_jo0knmF1yyiMSmKwAQ2waOMWINAu-JufksTbbie5IyZ1DabHcKaFjouL6Oh4I6DRPaACshE_gahXiXLZ6uuU8OOsEdpwMKdXppuF0C6Ahgw0bVxTGBqeTmOBK6pM/s640/IMG_8067+%2528Large%2529.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't this pure bliss???</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjcHYRxyXOEZTL5ZhZTnUGE4OqZ8Ag_Xk4cuzmMKu_4fsgwMnJW7p3nZceEZznzjW5Kq3RcL8L-C6ZZnLatMoJxSkNQntyQU4Gb6wR0X1cxv7sPU-eqKxiIPtP92fIE-TxhcZnueKVQzU/s1600/13934851_10154303042705874_5724012223045650788_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjcHYRxyXOEZTL5ZhZTnUGE4OqZ8Ag_Xk4cuzmMKu_4fsgwMnJW7p3nZceEZznzjW5Kq3RcL8L-C6ZZnLatMoJxSkNQntyQU4Gb6wR0X1cxv7sPU-eqKxiIPtP92fIE-TxhcZnueKVQzU/s640/13934851_10154303042705874_5724012223045650788_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some Craziness!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
wanted to just settle there. It was without doubt the most beautiful thing on
our Spiti Trip. After spending around two hours at the lake, walking around the
lake, taking pictures, lazing around, we started heading back towards our car
as it was getting cold and windy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Once
back in our car we headed to our tents where we had made arrangements to stay
overnight. This was the second time when we were staying in tents (first was in
Jispa during our trip to Ladakh in 2011). Once we reached the compound of the
tents we were immediately shown our tents and were asked to come to the kitchen
to have hot tea. (By the time they bring tea from the kitchen to our tents, it
turns cold!!) After piping hot tea we felt refreshed and again settled
ourselves in one tent for numerous rounds of UNO. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhXs0WMclz2gOqpq1h8MJdgO0FOUytNMJL49H00S7jciqusUljSvCiV07G16nROVC8KihTYwXCuIkraQTg-87AiqoqUS77fpYK7-2U4urjhv1dqSny9qv7zudOPy50Hj9gWz_OATWpkc/s1600/IMG_8122+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Tents near Chandrataal Lake" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhXs0WMclz2gOqpq1h8MJdgO0FOUytNMJL49H00S7jciqusUljSvCiV07G16nROVC8KihTYwXCuIkraQTg-87AiqoqUS77fpYK7-2U4urjhv1dqSny9qv7zudOPy50Hj9gWz_OATWpkc/s640/IMG_8122+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Tents near Chandrataal Lake" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tents near Chandrataal Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiViiBy3X1MPCTFCDJSs2pLYMkU-ecGsdVXVxivP3OuFCpEoV3FFlVzNkkgVqsW53r-YnRRZfoyg7VMrJoVLhf8UB3K_kyua77MbU4yXt0Hx7fH_1XRRgryB7DDbWlg9RuSwNcbYmvcdfA/s1600/IMG_8128+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Camps near Chandrataal" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiViiBy3X1MPCTFCDJSs2pLYMkU-ecGsdVXVxivP3OuFCpEoV3FFlVzNkkgVqsW53r-YnRRZfoyg7VMrJoVLhf8UB3K_kyua77MbU4yXt0Hx7fH_1XRRgryB7DDbWlg9RuSwNcbYmvcdfA/s640/IMG_8128+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Camps near Chandrataal" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camps near Chandrataal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Once
inside the tent we were so warm that we didn’t want to step out for even using
the washroom or having dinner. They serve dinner in a huge tent, where everyone
from the camp assembles. They gave us garlic soup directly from the stove and
it was not burning our tongue… just imagine how cold it was there in the month
of July. God knows what happens there in December.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
a hot dinner we headed to our tents for a peaceful sleep, with Chandrataal Lake
in our mind and thanking the Mother Nature for everything that she has gifted
us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Points to Note:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"></span><br /></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Book an Innova or a Xylo for a comfortable travel. As the roads are bad travel in Sumo or Maxx can be cumbersome.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Although the distance between places (at times) is not far because of the rough terrain it takes a considerable time to go from one place to another. So plan accordingly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">It is advised to start your day early and reach your destination while it is daylight. Please avoid driving once the sun sets. Driving in dark can be very dangerous.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Please carry warm clothes including sweater, jacket, cap, mufflers, socks and gloves. Wear shoes and not sandals or chappals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Be easy on steps and while walking. Avoid brisk walk or running at high altitudes as the oxygen level is low.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">If you are feeling mountain sickness have chocolate or popcorn. It helps. Make it a point of sipping in water regularly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Please don’t litter and maintain the beauty of nature.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Do stop over at Kunzum Pass to appreciate the view and take the blessings from the stupas and temple there.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Chandrataal Lake is a 15-20 mins trek. Take your own time walking and appreciate the natural beauty. The lake is a beautiful sight, savor every moment. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">In Kaza we stayed at Hotel Sakya Abode. The rooms were a little small but were built in accordance with old architecture. It is made of mud and is thus cold resistant. The staff and restaurant of this hotel is excellent. Must stay at Kaza. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">The monastery and the temple at Kaza is a three mins walk from the hotel.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">At Chandrataal, we stayed at Parasol Camps. The tents are comfortable and warm. Bathrooms are not attached and the water is chilly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">It is very windy and cold at Chandrataal camps specially after sun set. Do carry windsheeters and warm clothes. Pls cover your ears.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Don't forget to stop over and appreciate the views. After all the journey is as important as the destination.</span></li>
</ul>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Kaza, Himachal Pradesh 172114, India32.2275991 78.07099029999994932.2007336 78.030649799999949 32.2544646 78.111330799999948tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-56978842595714518632016-09-14T16:30:00.000+05:302016-09-14T16:30:06.461+05:30Tabo – Dhankar – Kaza – Kye – Khibber – Kaza (11,980 Ft)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">DAY 5 - TABO-
DHANKAR- KAZA <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Finally, we are in Spiti. Till
now we were in Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh. I was the first one to be up
in the morning. I reached for my camera and was out of the hotel to explore the
small and silent village, Tabo. It’s primary attraction is the Tabo Monastey
and that is where I headed. The town itself is an island of peace and
tranquility, secluded from the rest of the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnD-O26f6YOomN5wlLisbYOPrKSH1_DRHeOUivM5LKeHD_hzHyxg6Vm3qTn0yD5Rz3V9GxuBh8odp0EfNW6Qp0BCGwYC_dl-o4fOOZBwzHLsImb0RX4_MFaBbcRRLFjr8VzHHZYj4hQvw/s1600/Tabo+Monastery+Entrance.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tabo Monastery Entrance" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnD-O26f6YOomN5wlLisbYOPrKSH1_DRHeOUivM5LKeHD_hzHyxg6Vm3qTn0yD5Rz3V9GxuBh8odp0EfNW6Qp0BCGwYC_dl-o4fOOZBwzHLsImb0RX4_MFaBbcRRLFjr8VzHHZYj4hQvw/s640/Tabo+Monastery+Entrance.JPG" title="Tabo Monastery Entrance" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tabo Monastery Entrance</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The monastery was a stone’s
throw away from our hotel. High up in the Himalayas, elevated at 11,000 ft, the
monastery here is the lifeline of this peaceful village. Indian and foreign
tourists make their way to this village to visit the over 1000 year old
monastery, a World Heritage Site. In fact, Tabo came onto the tourist map when
the monastery turned a 1000 years old in 1996.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiXZAjqKEC3NkBhTeA5o7MsyndRIKtBv97xGOH-JXjPdeKyTeAyG5CMb1pKhqiE2J2lVgwOS8l6M2JojmtIQ3CAl81lBEku-7kyi9YmjWq0d4EWpyto3MmNs2RI1Ep2zWMkooV9cHSnQM/s1600/New+Monastery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="New Monastery at Tabo" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiXZAjqKEC3NkBhTeA5o7MsyndRIKtBv97xGOH-JXjPdeKyTeAyG5CMb1pKhqiE2J2lVgwOS8l6M2JojmtIQ3CAl81lBEku-7kyi9YmjWq0d4EWpyto3MmNs2RI1Ep2zWMkooV9cHSnQM/s640/New+Monastery.JPG" title="New Monastery at Tabo" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Monastery at Tabo</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Tabo Monastery is said to be
one of the Dalai Lama’s favorite. Unlike the other monasteries this monastery
is much understated in appearance. This monastery is more spiritual and not so
eye candy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The old monastery consists of
mud gompas which was surrounded by dry mountains of the region. Inside the monastery
there are no lights. You are advised to carry a torch or use the torch light
from your mobile phones. The interior architecture of the monastery is breath
taking and beautiful with numerous wooden pillars and paintings of
reincarnation of Buddha. Just when you enter the old monastery you can buy
small Buddhist trinkets and postcards as souvenirs from Tabo. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wSkUhGHNt62RyAH5mMmJSq8sRM3C9iJexPQcRMEFas_QEbM6RHElNMiXaXVooQHe5YkabBU7VVXCwIz4-0cW08gzKRSSljj1nMM1TDilBDW6qEa9wIS7BYXsKJoBNr_dOVDeBV8fVUI/s1600/Tabo+Old+Monastery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tabo Monastery" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wSkUhGHNt62RyAH5mMmJSq8sRM3C9iJexPQcRMEFas_QEbM6RHElNMiXaXVooQHe5YkabBU7VVXCwIz4-0cW08gzKRSSljj1nMM1TDilBDW6qEa9wIS7BYXsKJoBNr_dOVDeBV8fVUI/s640/Tabo+Old+Monastery.JPG" title="Tabo Monastery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tabo Monastery</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">As we roamed in the courtyard,
I just thought that 1000 years ago people went through so much of hardship to
come to such a remote place, under such hard climatic conditions and build this
monastery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">From the monastery you can see
the caves where the monks went to for solitary meditation. It is said that some
of them are still used by monks for meditation. If you are game, you can trek
and use these caves for meditation as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">You will find a large – “om ma
ni padme hum” written on the mountain face. You will also find colorful prayer
flags flying on top of every house. As we took a round around the place we saw
small kids playing soccer… and that too not just kicking around the ball, but
dodging and controlling the ball deftly. People amongst us were facing problem
breathing and here were these kids, running around and playing soccer
gleefully… wow…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We were also fortunate to see a
glimpse of a wedding taking place in Tabo. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQcnwKJyRL96ujvzlypjE74MBudfK5sK8g70M5-wPATgGgA4AZI2qKDULVtzg0FFyGPiGYoPiGZFL1Lx0GrZ2pf9F7uJle1Xgdtn2Gl8e89OIg7fPilqegsqWk6Ajt3TSbd13fNkgfpY/s1600/Enroute+Dhnakar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enroute Dhankar" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQcnwKJyRL96ujvzlypjE74MBudfK5sK8g70M5-wPATgGgA4AZI2qKDULVtzg0FFyGPiGYoPiGZFL1Lx0GrZ2pf9F7uJle1Xgdtn2Gl8e89OIg7fPilqegsqWk6Ajt3TSbd13fNkgfpY/s640/Enroute+Dhnakar.jpg" title="Enroute Dhankar" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute Dhankar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After visiting the thousand
year old monastery at Tabo, we started towards Dhankar. Dhankar is another
small town but at a much higher altitude than Tabo and has a very old
monastery. The drive to Dhankar became more and more beautiful. It overlooks
the fusion of two rivers – Pin & Spiti. At Dhankar, there are two
monasteries – New Monastery and old monastery. The old monastery is an
endangered site as it is very old but has stood the test of time. The monastery
is simple and looks beautiful from afar, perched on a hilltop.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdRzCVtuFshjCxZgamOABCuP-XwHPw_rZH4rrLQJs1YjaU2xK4McZuH5KQFvR3saiiQyIdK7ubMOKgZlMAqj8f_DZ7EvrImccxNL2VmfF-AnvTSxCvzkWZUWsSbH7oR19A4JHTX750o1A/s1600/Dhankar+Monastery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dhankar Village" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdRzCVtuFshjCxZgamOABCuP-XwHPw_rZH4rrLQJs1YjaU2xK4McZuH5KQFvR3saiiQyIdK7ubMOKgZlMAqj8f_DZ7EvrImccxNL2VmfF-AnvTSxCvzkWZUWsSbH7oR19A4JHTX750o1A/s640/Dhankar+Monastery.jpg" title="Dhankar Village" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dhankar Village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9n0PkSbeqt90fuRyBCEWv4zYaSfLEP-7MjDLQNgSB2E49U2PrVLvndRm1NOw77u8piXdKCyB6LJDH69pqqEtga1JClMqZOLkwEDWJD0vQey4Eux-2bB7eDLMaonnt-qpWQQDmYeXJ2DQ/s1600/Dhankar+Old+Monastery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dhankar Monastery Entrance" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9n0PkSbeqt90fuRyBCEWv4zYaSfLEP-7MjDLQNgSB2E49U2PrVLvndRm1NOw77u8piXdKCyB6LJDH69pqqEtga1JClMqZOLkwEDWJD0vQey4Eux-2bB7eDLMaonnt-qpWQQDmYeXJ2DQ/s640/Dhankar+Old+Monastery.JPG" title="Dhankar Monastery Entrance" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dhankar Monastery Entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6aXxaVRlyuEGnU6YGiQv_t3IrjqUa3c9o9lDrllQ3GRFfRk68eTQJA_sGcL8CpOJzOz2ZLEsNbcELaCdKPyJfk4ympHjWX5u5jzZxQ9MARUl0ZrKCKqY3qYdxDMlb3I6sVVx5U-oDBoc/s1600/Dhankar+New+Monastery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="New Monastery at Dhankar" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6aXxaVRlyuEGnU6YGiQv_t3IrjqUa3c9o9lDrllQ3GRFfRk68eTQJA_sGcL8CpOJzOz2ZLEsNbcELaCdKPyJfk4ympHjWX5u5jzZxQ9MARUl0ZrKCKqY3qYdxDMlb3I6sVVx5U-oDBoc/s640/Dhankar+New+Monastery.JPG" title="New Monastery at Dhankar" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Monastery at Dhankar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After the visit to the
monasteries we decided to trek few kilometers uphill to reach the high altitude
Dhankar Lake. The trek can be a problem for few because of lack of oxygen at
such an altitude. The lake is grand and the trek is highly rewarding. Preeti
and Taashi stayed back and the rest of us decided to venture on to the trek. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibT0N5gAAp2RRpVSVzGJyWmoSkeEQLMvRYlU7pdm3DsUx_y8t35JD29KNfGgw57X3vKGdljs3DPuUHDvQO3OgscEaGCIPdjLZ0Zjiz1U8tJIXwfPOfSZX1OQlQvPjywEvPLT3yqKMznog/s1600/View+while+Trekking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dhankar Trek" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibT0N5gAAp2RRpVSVzGJyWmoSkeEQLMvRYlU7pdm3DsUx_y8t35JD29KNfGgw57X3vKGdljs3DPuUHDvQO3OgscEaGCIPdjLZ0Zjiz1U8tJIXwfPOfSZX1OQlQvPjywEvPLT3yqKMznog/s640/View+while+Trekking.jpg" title="Dhankar Trek" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View while Trekking to Dhankar Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FAPi8TiZl5scH_sB2lFxWcfCZdUjSddw37jBMpKFWf62jrBV1VpplbbFFWoDIi7VAEq8bvGrC7sK4qgfma3nBTJO81tEBSuyfMqb6OqPRjvHVQfvtpydY_6aW8JaHHzNpClue0Agxbs/s1600/Another+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dhankar Trek" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FAPi8TiZl5scH_sB2lFxWcfCZdUjSddw37jBMpKFWf62jrBV1VpplbbFFWoDIi7VAEq8bvGrC7sK4qgfma3nBTJO81tEBSuyfMqb6OqPRjvHVQfvtpydY_6aW8JaHHzNpClue0Agxbs/s640/Another+view.jpg" title="Dhankar Trek" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another View</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Not used to exercise at this altitude, we were soon panting while going uphill. </span><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We had to take a 1 minute break after every 3-4 minutes of uphill climbing.
However, we eventually reached the shimmering emerald green Dhankar Lake. There
is a stupa near the Lake where you will find numerous colorful prayer flags
fluttering in the wind.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRCkHr3ZbPVLhb87iW5Fvc7glLVlPziy3vGmYeANgDBK6vbp4NZjiU3GYhDl6Y5SYF_WUy6sNSSu6lbxgOZr0gNkGWD45phYYrJiTwlI3ezB2l-ZHMMywGGVczTLqVXlkYvpKvV8M8Vzs/s1600/Dhankar+Lake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dhankar Lake" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRCkHr3ZbPVLhb87iW5Fvc7glLVlPziy3vGmYeANgDBK6vbp4NZjiU3GYhDl6Y5SYF_WUy6sNSSu6lbxgOZr0gNkGWD45phYYrJiTwlI3ezB2l-ZHMMywGGVczTLqVXlkYvpKvV8M8Vzs/s640/Dhankar+Lake.JPG" title="Dhankar Lake" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dhankar Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBioBS_pms6wzp0m3oSknO_VR8of_dI6rcN3TPMQy9X2IzTqVF-Tv34pELP1EZBWudFqu1zsHUEb0Vjkn0kHd3r5EclNxH4KyXGUIqt4TdUAgKQVqVqxSVUyBLsynKvLkKD5ZLk7YZXk/s1600/In+the+middle+of+Nowhere.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dhankar - Trek to Lake" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBioBS_pms6wzp0m3oSknO_VR8of_dI6rcN3TPMQy9X2IzTqVF-Tv34pELP1EZBWudFqu1zsHUEb0Vjkn0kHd3r5EclNxH4KyXGUIqt4TdUAgKQVqVqxSVUyBLsynKvLkKD5ZLk7YZXk/s640/In+the+middle+of+Nowhere.jpg" title="Dhankar - Trek to Lake" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the middle of Nowhere</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We decided to relax and enjoy
the lake for a while before heading downhill. The calmness of the lake soothed
us and we were willing to spend hours here. After a while, we decided to head
back and saw a group of horses near the lake. It was a sight to behold.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlIkoZryPwXKCaGd8uioOMj9TfQxjrPqPuM87hXGrOz0jyg7YjN5Y3S6bUc5u7knn88Tlu7FTa0sb4MIMckEqt3IxtBTsW73qg_BEe5Vo05jUspCWKeLOCi056rA9zGSZHCOmUDdu-dE/s1600/Horses+near+Dhankar+Lake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Horses near Dhankar Lake" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlIkoZryPwXKCaGd8uioOMj9TfQxjrPqPuM87hXGrOz0jyg7YjN5Y3S6bUc5u7knn88Tlu7FTa0sb4MIMckEqt3IxtBTsW73qg_BEe5Vo05jUspCWKeLOCi056rA9zGSZHCOmUDdu-dE/s640/Horses+near+Dhankar+Lake.JPG" title="Horses near Dhankar Lake" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horses near Dhankar Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Once back to Dhankar Village we
headed to the restaurant in Dhankar Monastery for lunch. We were very tired and
hungry after the trek.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Post a fulfilling Chinese lunch
we headed to Kaza – the head quarter of Spiti district. We were staying in Kaza
for three nights and seeing many small villages nearby – Kye, Khibber, Komic,
Langza and Hikkim. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWK-yJyOoJvCDQRmY9a7BrLUd4VBDsR5M5_d6IliqMPmfw53fmO6Sj08f_aIArbZXH1d-DY6v1jnLbij7PIvN2uaoewsUmJnHyUdwacUNDkAa2lBtssOlGr5Cn3wADT-3IWyKWCZHgEp4/s1600/En+route+Kaza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enroute Kaza" border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWK-yJyOoJvCDQRmY9a7BrLUd4VBDsR5M5_d6IliqMPmfw53fmO6Sj08f_aIArbZXH1d-DY6v1jnLbij7PIvN2uaoewsUmJnHyUdwacUNDkAa2lBtssOlGr5Cn3wADT-3IWyKWCZHgEp4/s640/En+route+Kaza.jpg" title="Enroute Kaza" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute Kaza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">By the time we reached Kaza, the sun was about to set and we
were tired. We checked in our hotel – Sakya Abode and decided to rest. The
attendant brought us hot tea and we were in seventh heaven. We were informed by
the attendant that the hotel is the first hotel of Kaza and is built in
accordance with old architecture. It is made of mud and is thus cold
resistant. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: center 3.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We all sat in one room and
played Uno. Post dinner, the hotel manager gave a home-made remedy (ginger,
garlic in boiling water) to Nikhil and Nikki who were facing breathing problem
while sleeping. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">DAY 6 - KAZA- KYE- KHIBBER- KAZA</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">As
usual I was up early and decided to go for a stroll. But this time I had Pramod
and Nikki to give me company. Just 2 mins walk from our hotel was Kaza
Monastery. It was beautiful. Our timing for our early morning visit was bang
on. Just when we entered the monastery two monks started blowing shanks (conch
shell). It was a call for all the monks to gather at the monastery for prayers.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4KYFNnGZQIwzKA_MpYEr6Z7WoL6WgYbqNw2gqmOdaaQYNHR5L8kY769Nf7gNJFUjlI4SLrBshshFSzyYbjv-UfxZT9qpOYL8HeuT9L3D5tk4kJJ2iW6G_dLjTNrPAaMEIVle51wOZx64/s1600/Kaza+Monastery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Monastery at Kaza" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4KYFNnGZQIwzKA_MpYEr6Z7WoL6WgYbqNw2gqmOdaaQYNHR5L8kY769Nf7gNJFUjlI4SLrBshshFSzyYbjv-UfxZT9qpOYL8HeuT9L3D5tk4kJJ2iW6G_dLjTNrPAaMEIVle51wOZx64/s640/Kaza+Monastery.JPG" title="Monastery at Kaza" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monastery at Kaza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
saw monks of all age and build running to the monastery from all the directions
with cups in hand. I think after the prayers they will all be given hot tea and
snacks. Once all the monks were settled in the monastery they started chanting
and we could just stand there and listen. Their chanting brought peace in our
mind.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
listening to their chanting for some time we decided to continue our walk and
saw seven stupas right infront of the monastery. Moving forward we saw the
highest petrol pump in the world of Indian Oil.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSsX70efTnI9c9FJ_NREh5OWn8cBgZlvrZQAVxz0xEsnQXVYlmizTfXc6aZjRvypcCU8DYlybOXuZVHFmaIZJ0gBWzJJGYPsda8_JebC97CYX0ecp-A0zg6PMv7SPBNZ-DDuHRuvhl0co/s1600/Stupas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Stupas infront of the monastery" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSsX70efTnI9c9FJ_NREh5OWn8cBgZlvrZQAVxz0xEsnQXVYlmizTfXc6aZjRvypcCU8DYlybOXuZVHFmaIZJ0gBWzJJGYPsda8_JebC97CYX0ecp-A0zg6PMv7SPBNZ-DDuHRuvhl0co/s640/Stupas.JPG" title="Stupas infront of the monastery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stupas infront of the monastery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
strolling for some time and witnessing the village waking up we headed back to
our hotel.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
a good shower and garam garam aloo ke parathe we headed for Kye and Khibber
Village. The drive between Kaza to Khibber is surreal. The mountains are huge
and you can see different shades of colors covering the mountains. After a
small drive (as compared to the drive we have been undertaking) we reached the
village – Khibber. It was a very small village at a picturesque location. If I
am not wrong, at 14,200 ft it is one of the highest inhabited village and the
highest polling station in the world. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojXyrwFFtaEPzOON8ABltMQvc0tFC5m6aPSpyfwwxOBXvRIi5MqU1ksdwfgNETc-jwQzW1A4UMveS4xUZLKu7Te2Uin6Uzj-66VcuCqCUMn1kuzAcPMuLwraSFyZl_ZZNjpiOq7sNiZQ/s1600/Enroute+Khibber.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enroute Khibber" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojXyrwFFtaEPzOON8ABltMQvc0tFC5m6aPSpyfwwxOBXvRIi5MqU1ksdwfgNETc-jwQzW1A4UMveS4xUZLKu7Te2Uin6Uzj-66VcuCqCUMn1kuzAcPMuLwraSFyZl_ZZNjpiOq7sNiZQ/s640/Enroute+Khibber.JPG" title="Enroute Khibber" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute Khibber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">While we were walking in the village and
heading to the monastery in Khibber we realized that the village is empty. All
the houses are locked and there is practically no one. May be the entire
village have gone to their small patches of land where they grow vegetables for
themselves.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoRqwFo96sWGzz1e-25Ki0Bh2LM3C5c78WdZeI0RgWFyuIGaD7C_D5Jz-ga8iV6Q8W__-dlXwHz7IaGDNWvwTcMhRGA-j3sOQqEVGKIXQUnvxdzXopDgbOElDLIQksVO018vyH5_AHZU/s1600/Khibber.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Khibber" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoRqwFo96sWGzz1e-25Ki0Bh2LM3C5c78WdZeI0RgWFyuIGaD7C_D5Jz-ga8iV6Q8W__-dlXwHz7IaGDNWvwTcMhRGA-j3sOQqEVGKIXQUnvxdzXopDgbOElDLIQksVO018vyH5_AHZU/s640/Khibber.JPG" title="Khibber" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khibber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKLuwA3AuYE5U-TAFFXWC970P7WnhBU-5rjMgkODwFQTzaWlZ1QYe1kKL10yGCVQESeoA7owJgWv4ha4lXvJRy6d5oRwm5lpuum4fmQhNDlLXeyYwcCmKNtW2DjJXp2C9U5G58wSy6Xs/s1600/Houses+at+Khibber.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Houses at Khibber" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKLuwA3AuYE5U-TAFFXWC970P7WnhBU-5rjMgkODwFQTzaWlZ1QYe1kKL10yGCVQESeoA7owJgWv4ha4lXvJRy6d5oRwm5lpuum4fmQhNDlLXeyYwcCmKNtW2DjJXp2C9U5G58wSy6Xs/s640/Houses+at+Khibber.JPG" title="Houses at Khibber" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Houses at Khibber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
walking in the village and facing little difficulty in finding the monastery we
finally reached the monastery. The monastery is nothing to talk about, but the
view from there was mesmerizing. As it is situated at 14,000 ft plus altitude
you might find it difficult to breathe.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9SLKK4KvbmML5nV9rubUo88Aj2hdiSCEI-PwA19NypDrg58wpjx7u238HAYlpbc7Lfeej8KMd77auOOatW5ELZKeZz90rW86dZtfHcLRR_3O-rRUc54Y0SZCfxUoioMF7sZQZ5hDJls/s1600/View+from+Monastery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View from Monastery" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9SLKK4KvbmML5nV9rubUo88Aj2hdiSCEI-PwA19NypDrg58wpjx7u238HAYlpbc7Lfeej8KMd77auOOatW5ELZKeZz90rW86dZtfHcLRR_3O-rRUc54Y0SZCfxUoioMF7sZQZ5hDJls/s640/View+from+Monastery.JPG" title="View from Monastery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Monastery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
Khibber Village we headed to one of the most awaited place in our itinerary –
Kye Monastery. After going mad for
fifteen minutes clicking pictures of Key monastery from afar we gave up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPYnNY1ARNB6TKpGqLi1c3x3Nc7RsWCPf5KyAOFjDGO_VDds1MdLZ5PwRk0AbB4WOAuFjoZnG0s3hF2GBt-vMOtaX7FesxfhVK8yIpgKtXJPOgaL2eLd3hp0mFNVv_foUYRVeGH1QU4Y/s1600/IMG_3330+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kye Monastery" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPYnNY1ARNB6TKpGqLi1c3x3Nc7RsWCPf5KyAOFjDGO_VDds1MdLZ5PwRk0AbB4WOAuFjoZnG0s3hF2GBt-vMOtaX7FesxfhVK8yIpgKtXJPOgaL2eLd3hp0mFNVv_foUYRVeGH1QU4Y/s640/IMG_3330+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Kye Monastery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kye Monastery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">At
Kye, we were given tea by monks and just like at the monastery in Kaza we saw
monks chanting in Kye Monastery. The view is beautiful and left us spell bound.
We just didn’t want to go back. We wanted to stay here, see the vast expanse of
mountains and the river passing through it. It was stunning and left all of us
speechless. Just at the entrance of Kye monastery if you walk downhill you will
find a small place where 3 </span><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">statues in golden color are erected. Go there
if not for the statues, then for clicking a picture with Kye monastery in the
back ground.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpL9ldbUIr8zwL7pS7lyrrf_GeK73TiyTewA7dPYxMYgjaBhjQ-ifWe8dQpjs7zF6pJCP1RImWeD3Z8Vcpj-GEPDQXzfN1NAjA5VFT9tvIaHL-E1MqkNcDEzQlsMaOrdU3C2twWUE5U8/s1600/IMG_7566+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Three statues in Golden near Kye Monastery" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpL9ldbUIr8zwL7pS7lyrrf_GeK73TiyTewA7dPYxMYgjaBhjQ-ifWe8dQpjs7zF6pJCP1RImWeD3Z8Vcpj-GEPDQXzfN1NAjA5VFT9tvIaHL-E1MqkNcDEzQlsMaOrdU3C2twWUE5U8/s640/IMG_7566+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Three statues in Golden near Kye Monastery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three statues in Golden near Kye Monastery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Once
back to Kaza, we all headed to the main market for lunch and some shopping. In
Kaza, you can buy souvenirs and gifts for loved ones. Kaza market is colorful
and spacious. The items here are expensive due to high transportation cost. I
found a nice place selling jackets at really economical price and another shop
from where you can buy your trekking gear. I bought a couple of shawls from a
shop here.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Rqo8OS-XaPhIo3rVcrqDHn2qMJylPtOa4aavusN2CYqhw9k3x317edHdxRUys2kaIIqhERzYvkTYQnxmafi70rFP0wFdWOf3qQfBJvqdKCzbwRISox54v7tUnHs6upTv3slJQaVDpvY/s1600/Market+Scene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vibrant Market at Kaza" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Rqo8OS-XaPhIo3rVcrqDHn2qMJylPtOa4aavusN2CYqhw9k3x317edHdxRUys2kaIIqhERzYvkTYQnxmafi70rFP0wFdWOf3qQfBJvqdKCzbwRISox54v7tUnHs6upTv3slJQaVDpvY/s640/Market+Scene.jpg" title="Vibrant Market at Kaza" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vibrant Market at Kaza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The
market was full of shops selling colorful dragon printed mugs, cups with cover,
thermos, caps, mufflers, wollen socks, sweaters etc. There were a couple of
shops selling souvenirs and handicraft items but were very expensive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
loads of shopping we headed back to the hotel. Like yesterday we again made
ourselves cozy in one room, called for coffee and started playing UNO. (Uno by
now has become our favorite game in this trip). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Today
for dinner the hotel has made authentic Spiti food. It’s more like steamed
cooked food. The soup served was delicious. The main course not so mice but if
you are fond of momos or steam cooked food you will like it. They had also
given a potato curry which had pasta like thing in that. It was yummy. Remember
the chutney served is very spicy – be careful. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Post
dinner and the ritual hot water with ginger and garlic (today’s was stronger
than yesterday) for Nikhil and Nikki we called off the day. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Points to Note:</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Book an Innova or a Xylo for a comfortable travel. As the roads are bad travel in Sumo or Maxx can be cumbersome.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Although the distance between places (at times) is not far because of the rough terrain it takes a considerable time to go from one place to another. So plan accordingly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">It is advised to start your day early and reach your destination while it is daylight. Please avoid driving once the sun sets. Driving in dark can be very dangerous.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Please carry warm clothes including sweater, jacket, cap, mufflers, socks and gloves. Wear shoes and not sandals or chappals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Be easy on steps and while walking. Avoid brisk walk or running at high altitudes as the oxygen level is low.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">If you are feeling mountain sickness have chocolate or popcorn. It helps. Make it a point of sipping in water regularly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Please don’t litter and maintain the beauty of nature.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Do stop over at Dhankar to see the monastery and have lunch while appreciating the view.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Dhankar Lake is a three to four kms trek uphill. It is not meant for everyone. Trekking at high altitude is a very serious affair. Only and only if you think you are fit go ahead else the moment you start feeling uneasy stop and rest. Once you feel better start trekking downhill. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">In Kaza we stayed at Hotel Sakya Abode. The rooms were a little small but were built in accordance with old architecture. It is made of mud and is thus cold resistant. The staff and restaurant of this hotel is excellent. Must stay at Kaza. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">The monastery and the temple at Kaza is a three mins walk from the hotel.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif; text-align: justify;">Don't forget to stop over and appreciate the views. After all the journey is as important as the destination.</span></li>
</ul>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Kaza, Himachal Pradesh 172114, India32.2275991 78.07099029999994932.2007336 78.030649799999949 32.2544646 78.111330799999948tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-68797119842944197572016-08-23T11:39:00.002+05:302016-08-23T13:08:40.730+05:30Sangla – Chitkul – Kalpa – Nako – Tabo (10,760 Ft)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>DAY 3
- SANGLA- CHITKUL- KALPA</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Again
at 5:00 am I woke up and peeped out of the window. I could not see anything. It
was all white…. fog everywhere… I could just not see anything. As if the huge
mountains which were there till last night are not there today morning. As I
could not see anything outside the window I went back to bed. And after ten
mins there was a knock on the door. Pramod was up and wanted some company.
Gradually everyone got up and we spend some time doing absolutely nothing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Today
we could travel at leisure – there was no need to start early as we won’t be
covering much distance today. After a breakfast of delicious aloo parathas and
curd we headed to Chitkul which is the last village on the Indo – Tibet Border.
The drive was picturesque and mesmerizing. On our way we stopped over at a
waterfall and clicked some pictures. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-LJ2wpDCUtjhAADMgZ2tsRer5wdJUk11feXXw5JwZg4v5HrmFQk6fi5dcy-_tzfPvug_Eb339TAnvE8p1PGQe706BWZuiX759aau90qDnE5XZKFOnn7U4fmE2QlZ5tLhBWDRPHANqRk/s1600/IMG_6524+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bridge En-route Chitkul" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-LJ2wpDCUtjhAADMgZ2tsRer5wdJUk11feXXw5JwZg4v5HrmFQk6fi5dcy-_tzfPvug_Eb339TAnvE8p1PGQe706BWZuiX759aau90qDnE5XZKFOnn7U4fmE2QlZ5tLhBWDRPHANqRk/s640/IMG_6524+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Bridge En-route Chitkul" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridge En-route Chitkul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTDcixOQOJvIC4Nv_npWQSG7rY2JM6A29iP5zaa4kJnPVOl8ibl-rspR3QwuCAT7FlI9fNvgkJtDSfBkeLyHjc66A_3y7_EBAAbxEX-sfb0giWY_wgtVdC6OAkLvd5a8gAGgEA3vJ1lu8/s1600/IMG_6549+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="En-route Chitkul" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTDcixOQOJvIC4Nv_npWQSG7rY2JM6A29iP5zaa4kJnPVOl8ibl-rspR3QwuCAT7FlI9fNvgkJtDSfBkeLyHjc66A_3y7_EBAAbxEX-sfb0giWY_wgtVdC6OAkLvd5a8gAGgEA3vJ1lu8/s640/IMG_6549+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="En-route Chitkul" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">En-route Chitkul</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVuxArOhIvUrCDKjqmTyGpTngygrno458Yjp1fxLJj8nXzmNrNoyXWi6lZFuBlcbvG3ylmZ_sYqjEupYrrHRr10_KwBA-aKNimPpTDJ-dzkUpdyKe4U7s6TfCbA0R6Mwgdcgw_Uw78Qc/s1600/IMG_6579+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Madness en-route Chitkul" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVuxArOhIvUrCDKjqmTyGpTngygrno458Yjp1fxLJj8nXzmNrNoyXWi6lZFuBlcbvG3ylmZ_sYqjEupYrrHRr10_KwBA-aKNimPpTDJ-dzkUpdyKe4U7s6TfCbA0R6Mwgdcgw_Uw78Qc/s640/IMG_6579+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Madness en-route Chitkul" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Madness en-route Chitkul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">If
you thought Sangla was beautiful, wait till you see Chitkul; it will sweep you
off your feet. It is a very small village with hardly 100 houses and is
surrounded by the impressive Himalayas and River Baspa flowing nearby. There is
absolutely nothing to do at this place except enjoying the scenic beauty. The
only sound that you will hear in this place is that of the flowing Baspa and birds
chirping.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwYRbxQue78rUimQ-o1jXfPCm3wBjZ6NSoYqDCcXuaRDku_tyUDj7kRgzkJBc6ZkawaYksdd6MKzKEcSnw2mgd4Re4lE_VjiFwYPaHtIfjxfc6rllFYgqSjkh2EWlCN7J7a3DJZ-GzyQ/s1600/IMG_6606+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chitkul - The last village towards Tibet" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwYRbxQue78rUimQ-o1jXfPCm3wBjZ6NSoYqDCcXuaRDku_tyUDj7kRgzkJBc6ZkawaYksdd6MKzKEcSnw2mgd4Re4lE_VjiFwYPaHtIfjxfc6rllFYgqSjkh2EWlCN7J7a3DJZ-GzyQ/s640/IMG_6606+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Chitkul - The last village towards Tibet" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chitkul - The last village towards Tibet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-ScbKn4kiDVVJJwmLAXfh65M2JIUrrBGtX1elfmm8En9Kbgz0JC5C11wTrB9xoRWB2HS9laeyLmym5t6b66ev7_xPY6RYTU80ywq6Kj_1Qw_r69_F2eKwM5c3MojwHq7qsAfrKrRjSk/s1600/IMG_6631+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="River Baspa at Chitkul" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-ScbKn4kiDVVJJwmLAXfh65M2JIUrrBGtX1elfmm8En9Kbgz0JC5C11wTrB9xoRWB2HS9laeyLmym5t6b66ev7_xPY6RYTU80ywq6Kj_1Qw_r69_F2eKwM5c3MojwHq7qsAfrKrRjSk/s640/IMG_6631+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="River Baspa at Chitkul" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Baspa at Chitkul (freezing cold water)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
headed towards the River bed and enjoyed a walk near the flowing river. Did our
ritual of clicking loads of pictures till it started drizzling and the valley
turned into heaven.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Since
it was drizzling we decided to have a hot cup of tea and piping hot maggi at
“The Last Dhaba of Hindustan”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Once
the weather had cleared we headed to the beautiful temple located behind the
main road of Chitkul. The architecture of this temple is exactly like the
Berinag Temple at Sangla. Chitkul remains close in winters due to snow and is
very famous for its potatoes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9Bug839jQrr0kjI0bEq6emvPTpnluizsDr9x7ga8pdqMUJNYl0M_kMeIf0rofiVNLG_l9wCyuRLbWPlEVTk73dcckNdcuC_whe3nbhkIbuDI3V0Rm9ugBZtKifpK_iPbeVeVAhSrqAE/s1600/IMG_6660+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Temple at Chitkul" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9Bug839jQrr0kjI0bEq6emvPTpnluizsDr9x7ga8pdqMUJNYl0M_kMeIf0rofiVNLG_l9wCyuRLbWPlEVTk73dcckNdcuC_whe3nbhkIbuDI3V0Rm9ugBZtKifpK_iPbeVeVAhSrqAE/s640/IMG_6660+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Temple at Chitkul" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple at Chitkul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjxwk0I7aX3jPZKZ0jUWQAsA9p4MJgEYqvfGLwuuBOl2g37qbiJ1nu2HQVCSF309BBks8EjM2NoVUE5RMmGDUtPs3G5WRvKIpOUubptFI81IVS6Ff2L-PXcsy7VdDyR412VQpIaeO3Ek/s1600/IMG_6652+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Close up of the temple, Chitkul" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjxwk0I7aX3jPZKZ0jUWQAsA9p4MJgEYqvfGLwuuBOl2g37qbiJ1nu2HQVCSF309BBks8EjM2NoVUE5RMmGDUtPs3G5WRvKIpOUubptFI81IVS6Ff2L-PXcsy7VdDyR412VQpIaeO3Ek/s640/IMG_6652+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Close up of the temple, Chitkul" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of the temple, Chitkul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
were not ready to leave this place, but we had to head to another beautiful
place in Kinnaur Kalpa. After a lip licking maggi and tea we hit the road
again. For going to Kalpa, we had to head back to Sangla, reach the bridge near
Karchamm and then follow the road to Sangla.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-Cl_BlEJSb0amqwWD8NdkJ9sdUhCsqbi2Q6wMrmrcic5l8dn-V-83C4NYtapkifPMdnIMzksttx1qd5Jaq_EA9hskBlTLHzmvf8d5VB9HBv_LvuSrlhHWbTYW8U39A8tEK5rVb2Q4B0/s1600/IMG_20160704_173414_HDR+%2528Large%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View en-route Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-Cl_BlEJSb0amqwWD8NdkJ9sdUhCsqbi2Q6wMrmrcic5l8dn-V-83C4NYtapkifPMdnIMzksttx1qd5Jaq_EA9hskBlTLHzmvf8d5VB9HBv_LvuSrlhHWbTYW8U39A8tEK5rVb2Q4B0/s640/IMG_20160704_173414_HDR+%2528Large%2529.jpg" title="View en-route Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View en-route Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
had earlier decided to visit Kamru Fort in Sangla on our way back from Chitkul
but we gave it a miss as we wanted to reach Kalpa in day light.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
had our lunch at Reckong Peo which is the district head quarter. You can also
indulge yourself in shopping of Kinnauri Caps and Shawl. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijn4U2p-IFFhidS0YRNgDoykysccKlB_nIgdlw8OceDt0zAfbY4iZDOG7THBKFANvYBLMYST8JErvOSq-houaDCfxD8xadTgERSVYcv65_2XJqpBl5WxsINMC85r5LT6_DMzH-JJMwLuM/s1600/IMG_6710+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Reckong Peo Market" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijn4U2p-IFFhidS0YRNgDoykysccKlB_nIgdlw8OceDt0zAfbY4iZDOG7THBKFANvYBLMYST8JErvOSq-houaDCfxD8xadTgERSVYcv65_2XJqpBl5WxsINMC85r5LT6_DMzH-JJMwLuM/s640/IMG_6710+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Reckong Peo Market" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reckong Peo Market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
lunch and a bit of shopping (Alas!) we were again charged up for the beautiful
town Kalpa. Once you reach the main market of the Recong Peo, there is a road
that goes left, further uphill. Take this road and you will reach Kalpa roughly
after 10 kms from here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrsVgP49WNk1PzC8vm18j_gHUse2BgrfJooycJPnUjdsU_TK8MBV8cZHlJXy6YHyfLMwWHPf-tf4RHox0n5_eN5bLyxSFTN978hivqCDuvZUtz25HpnW9fLD9SWTc6egicSy7chGKCG30/s1600/Peo+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Reckong Peo - Snapshots" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrsVgP49WNk1PzC8vm18j_gHUse2BgrfJooycJPnUjdsU_TK8MBV8cZHlJXy6YHyfLMwWHPf-tf4RHox0n5_eN5bLyxSFTN978hivqCDuvZUtz25HpnW9fLD9SWTc6egicSy7chGKCG30/s640/Peo+Collage.jpg" title="Reckong Peo - Snapshots" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reckong Peo - Snapshots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Kalpa
is again located at a height and offers breath taking views of the Himalayas.
Kalpa is famous for apple orchards and scenic beauty. The town boasts of a
temple (same architecture as in Sangla & Chitkul) and Lochawa-La-Khang
(Samdub Choeling) monastery. We had booked Hotel Golden Apple in Kalpa which
was a very comfortable stay. We had a Himalayan mountain view facing room and
the size of the room was huge, bigger than any room we had stayed in this trip
so far.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
barely had an evening in Kalpa and I was not too hopeful of accomplishing much.
After a much needed tea and coffee break, we strolled towards the town. It was
very cold and windy. And we all had our woolens and caps on. The Peaks of
Kinner Kailash were in full glory in Kalpa. After a twenty mins walk we reached
the Buddhist monastery. It was the first Monastery which we saw in our trip…
(many more to follow). We decided to first head to the Kinnaur style Temple
which was a little further away. The way to the temple is through the school’s
compound. The temple was again made in wood and huge. Since we arrived around 7
pm it was already closed and thus we could see it only from outside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAoMWEo9MTzZyP2oWAjcx8PBTicFRu3CHqr9iQtP7fvKs137IHmnfFojT-m0ym9ykBnlGye77Mn59tegkMqHH7VREXgNMKMQeKFb33imeoOMd6gEvgW4s95yfvTxegz5UgNpYwxEDWsQ/s1600/IMG_6751+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAoMWEo9MTzZyP2oWAjcx8PBTicFRu3CHqr9iQtP7fvKs137IHmnfFojT-m0ym9ykBnlGye77Mn59tegkMqHH7VREXgNMKMQeKFb33imeoOMd6gEvgW4s95yfvTxegz5UgNpYwxEDWsQ/s640/IMG_6751+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcY9E9g2AwSPhvlVoVc50o-OMBfEBKYUfCiirkDbYmAlR5Zou9NsCPJZHKWQcGcU5ftmOqr5KFnO1-WO5wjaIwMZu0mYeiiI-QPK5mfukA0hxZXpQFNWxRmwY4PkkmqFqMKd_0l9pELM/s1600/IMG_6758+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View from Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcY9E9g2AwSPhvlVoVc50o-OMBfEBKYUfCiirkDbYmAlR5Zou9NsCPJZHKWQcGcU5ftmOqr5KFnO1-WO5wjaIwMZu0mYeiiI-QPK5mfukA0hxZXpQFNWxRmwY4PkkmqFqMKd_0l9pELM/s640/IMG_6758+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="View from Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDFRRVf1ThqIDvel5ETPo-7QeonG97qJbtcgExK5EAk6uJeVAJvCdOjodpVGXA0wvXQnQruc36Mi0I23kDUXx-3GuRB67kKT-X5cPI4afbd2I-UjrVuKxPPjyer2k7jvGqnP38cv4nuM/s1600/IMG_6763+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mesmerizing Himalayas, Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDFRRVf1ThqIDvel5ETPo-7QeonG97qJbtcgExK5EAk6uJeVAJvCdOjodpVGXA0wvXQnQruc36Mi0I23kDUXx-3GuRB67kKT-X5cPI4afbd2I-UjrVuKxPPjyer2k7jvGqnP38cv4nuM/s640/IMG_6763+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Mesmerizing Himalayas, Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mesmerizing Himalayas, Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">On
our way back we stopped over at the Monastery. You need to climb four five
steps and you will see the white colored stupa. On the right side of the Stupa
is the monastery, which is lined on all four sides with prayer wheels.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-kRGjSd1o_SQdDySV1XWAD2R6-E0XQCJOATgbr-fgufTpKm4N8DNsEQeEZscc0tnO8zyIWw3PTAIgEiTdA9sVbITnN01HOv-_sIZwP3wXuKKTgXHNt4qkLH2Cln1ojLW0EHGC1zZcw0/s1600/IMG_6767+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Monastery at Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-kRGjSd1o_SQdDySV1XWAD2R6-E0XQCJOATgbr-fgufTpKm4N8DNsEQeEZscc0tnO8zyIWw3PTAIgEiTdA9sVbITnN01HOv-_sIZwP3wXuKKTgXHNt4qkLH2Cln1ojLW0EHGC1zZcw0/s640/IMG_6767+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Monastery at Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monastery at Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIdTaIk4s-MRjNxzBzrOAgiDXMri1hI-fQJntX7W81CKtH2AvLgxtSW5-CL0DqqjzRkIHSsHBlk0wpvbpuu-iZNo_TMlLpWWWouopngxB5S8WYIoDU5FVGmJRHIJZXrWKNUjiP-z5Y6U/s1600/IMG_6774+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Stupa at Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIdTaIk4s-MRjNxzBzrOAgiDXMri1hI-fQJntX7W81CKtH2AvLgxtSW5-CL0DqqjzRkIHSsHBlk0wpvbpuu-iZNo_TMlLpWWWouopngxB5S8WYIoDU5FVGmJRHIJZXrWKNUjiP-z5Y6U/s640/IMG_6774+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Stupa at Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stupa at Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Kqo0OXEfm-RPsiYHiboGL2aHE20Xt26A0_GEHCFZ2GX4jS3aaIMIUYyYQtbxTKJCo4hBTCz_Wfq9k8j7y_xP0Dh85dn_K2BQeMMlaarjL5SLxUp7SKiXWZ_MLxVM4QFcYnTT_GqleYM/s1600/IMG_6790+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Temple at Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Kqo0OXEfm-RPsiYHiboGL2aHE20Xt26A0_GEHCFZ2GX4jS3aaIMIUYyYQtbxTKJCo4hBTCz_Wfq9k8j7y_xP0Dh85dn_K2BQeMMlaarjL5SLxUp7SKiXWZ_MLxVM4QFcYnTT_GqleYM/s640/IMG_6790+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Temple at Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple at Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Like
all the monasteries it was very colorful with lots of ghee lanterns. There was
a huge prayer wheel just when you enter the monastery on the right side. You
can feel your body relaxing once you are inside the monastery.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfz-F8awQyp018pkJih3xqrTXy9mBuZ0LjWoNOYkHAsS3jScMjgqxu31P3-a2zU_GMGSvm9W5He8R2I7WwDxTzeJjSV62WOTxFtqbzv8O331UNirLjCxeUdkCaaR4VvRnqUnTobAD-z8U/s1600/IMG_6806+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ghee Lanterns at Kalpa Monastery" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfz-F8awQyp018pkJih3xqrTXy9mBuZ0LjWoNOYkHAsS3jScMjgqxu31P3-a2zU_GMGSvm9W5He8R2I7WwDxTzeJjSV62WOTxFtqbzv8O331UNirLjCxeUdkCaaR4VvRnqUnTobAD-z8U/s640/IMG_6806+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Ghee Lanterns at Kalpa Monastery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ghee Lanterns at Kalpa Monastery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
spending some time at the monastery we walked back to our hotel where we had a
warm soup and a scrumptious dinner.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Sangla
and Kalpa are two places where we saw some breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
These two towns are perfect places to find solace amidst Himalayas. I wish I
could have spend more time here, doing nothing, just wandering here and there
and taking in the view of the mountains which keep mesmerizing you every
second. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>DAY 4 - KALPA- POOH- KHAB- NAKO- SUMDO- TABO</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">As
usual I got up early morning and peeked out of my window and what I saw outside
left me speechless. I was out of my room with my camera in a jiffy and heading
to the terrace. Once up there it took me a while to switch on the camera
because I didn’t want to stop looking at the beautiful landscape in front of
me. It seemed so surreal I didn’t want to blink even once… <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVtQVj1QBkppmUATjy2haaP7pbA_2XloSNUjzjrlF6vXbysmWs0SvkTVyW8NQ3k2rAjPsNXr8N9iOScot8UG4elGJLyj-lloDn_oBPZsxHWv-ESqpOJClwEjwV88ar94QWaoeXyEdvG4/s1600/IMG_6809+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Early morning view from Hotel at Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVtQVj1QBkppmUATjy2haaP7pbA_2XloSNUjzjrlF6vXbysmWs0SvkTVyW8NQ3k2rAjPsNXr8N9iOScot8UG4elGJLyj-lloDn_oBPZsxHWv-ESqpOJClwEjwV88ar94QWaoeXyEdvG4/s640/IMG_6809+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Early morning view from Hotel at Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning view from Hotel at Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_C29H9wt8tP-YvtEWjdaiuoU4ehHDoboU1wGgaDvyhqFa1emMU3UlkbcxTNLpW4eTAeMJX4hK01vEv1FnERsT7CoSyPzvsjIc2DO1Zd76RsjYckXAO_9OBvRKFNQ1MXC6zWHoMhqMyjo/s1600/IMG_6810+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_C29H9wt8tP-YvtEWjdaiuoU4ehHDoboU1wGgaDvyhqFa1emMU3UlkbcxTNLpW4eTAeMJX4hK01vEv1FnERsT7CoSyPzvsjIc2DO1Zd76RsjYckXAO_9OBvRKFNQ1MXC6zWHoMhqMyjo/s640/IMG_6810+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Kalpa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't it breathtaking beautiful??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdk56d88WsUbEJzT4hjIL_uMREQWKbr6TWR8CpvUyDRwVfLvv74JhRI8hAhIReA7TBcrMaRfOo1hCadbXJfEhZvgmUEVl_R-pUVPnzBITFWJryg8EWDGSnymox9GSUfAiMVt7Zp5RxXo4/s1600/IMG_6822+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalpa" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdk56d88WsUbEJzT4hjIL_uMREQWKbr6TWR8CpvUyDRwVfLvv74JhRI8hAhIReA7TBcrMaRfOo1hCadbXJfEhZvgmUEVl_R-pUVPnzBITFWJryg8EWDGSnymox9GSUfAiMVt7Zp5RxXo4/s640/IMG_6822+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Kalpa " width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wish I could stay here forever</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Finally
after a while I switched on the camera (when I could not bear the cold any
further) and took some pictures. I went on clicking to get the perfect picture
but moments like these can never be captured in images, they can just be
experienced. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
taking some pictures I headed down to wake Nikhil and Nikki.. to see the
beautiful gift nature has given us early morning. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Today,
we had a long distance to cover, therefore we started early. Once again we had
to travel back on the same road to the point where we took the turn at Reckong
Peo. Once back on the highway, we headed towards Pooh (no connection whatsoever
with Winnie the Pooh). The roads were a disaster. They were typical mountain
roads, with lot of wear and tear due to continuous landslides. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjHwvyj5MP3zocm_mEUnVak8JQ67ib3iHsICsW1j0d_p1u226_fWWFUDgOvxvj72qlWb_cF-CFSx2eCyqGF7C7Z9zytQTjellr5c-zUY8MucghYcNND2QXDBHozhyphenhyphenPVrsITA8TavcUAo/s1600/IMG_6849+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Confluence of Sutlej and Spiti" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjHwvyj5MP3zocm_mEUnVak8JQ67ib3iHsICsW1j0d_p1u226_fWWFUDgOvxvj72qlWb_cF-CFSx2eCyqGF7C7Z9zytQTjellr5c-zUY8MucghYcNND2QXDBHozhyphenhyphenPVrsITA8TavcUAo/s640/IMG_6849+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Confluence of Sutlej and Spiti" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Confluence of Sutlej and Spiti</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">On
our way we crossed the point of confluence of River Sutlej (from China) and
River Spiti. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEx5H7TuGz1SI9hLaACsH2F4NEf3zE0S6F9UD1WhCNnEkq51NpvDyOavVe90qjiKo8Ee66pxKa8uDCYcl9Vmg7RbMD0eoFxwOn7PuE-isc3flDkr7elDdqt8j1oV2Hz5qb_4XjmdengBc/s1600/IMG_6915+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hair Pin bends" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEx5H7TuGz1SI9hLaACsH2F4NEf3zE0S6F9UD1WhCNnEkq51NpvDyOavVe90qjiKo8Ee66pxKa8uDCYcl9Vmg7RbMD0eoFxwOn7PuE-isc3flDkr7elDdqt8j1oV2Hz5qb_4XjmdengBc/s640/IMG_6915+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Hair Pin bends" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hair Pin bends</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcV5bSTSnzAEO0P6gWBfxl1rONfbLYwtmXZQjZow2Vz7-WdbTGJ4urecZZr-X1WJ-LphyK2e8iXl6CN-BY6NujrqUrl8BRap-NhCKqx20lOawaj_OlSJg8FwuymjjnlariIkk1_oVkws/s1600/IMG_6942+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View En route to Nako" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcV5bSTSnzAEO0P6gWBfxl1rONfbLYwtmXZQjZow2Vz7-WdbTGJ4urecZZr-X1WJ-LphyK2e8iXl6CN-BY6NujrqUrl8BRap-NhCKqx20lOawaj_OlSJg8FwuymjjnlariIkk1_oVkws/s640/IMG_6942+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="View En route to Nako" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View En route to Nako</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
Pooh, the roads were again smooth. Pretty soon we found our self amidst rock
mountains and hair pin bends.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TaGaJ-ctNulIAWMxj7Eo4lr4jtSkgtKaoSId7vwydB4C0Gv_41Tg129OuPquE2Lapm1CS4ex-o0y3DG8tZF2aHnwoFHgLBfHSh5Qz3uXHMK6Fg7SAe8ZXvop8J4tEqvuThousgKIj9g/s1600/IMG_6951+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="En-route Tabo" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TaGaJ-ctNulIAWMxj7Eo4lr4jtSkgtKaoSId7vwydB4C0Gv_41Tg129OuPquE2Lapm1CS4ex-o0y3DG8tZF2aHnwoFHgLBfHSh5Qz3uXHMK6Fg7SAe8ZXvop8J4tEqvuThousgKIj9g/s640/IMG_6951+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="En-route Tabo" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FHL_Kt5KOMtalnRR_aIvqiZqWEiTA6Du3SKsBXlyF91fureaMoC1Ib0MiHqe6ONEvKSggAhaEJFSM0M50AeRRQC8zns9sF-V-FSaKk4sS45o3llzxUgeJw4FPPNDLn_gQ_xAYVlgYdc/s1600/IMG_6959+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="En route Tabo" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FHL_Kt5KOMtalnRR_aIvqiZqWEiTA6Du3SKsBXlyF91fureaMoC1Ib0MiHqe6ONEvKSggAhaEJFSM0M50AeRRQC8zns9sF-V-FSaKk4sS45o3llzxUgeJw4FPPNDLn_gQ_xAYVlgYdc/s640/IMG_6959+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="En route Tabo" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clear Blue Sky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">It
was after Khab that we had a tire puncture. We reached Nako around lunch
time.. Nako has nothing much to offer other than Nako Lake. It is a very small
and silent village. The Lake is actually a pond with emerald color water.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivPvjv5vw830zSEEbuYiYGZrm7HHZkYRiZSnD7c7zanMZT7DwpBigmlI13QzZYPiMFRTyOnTs_f9fhukaDbJYoOEKR5jC-WLDtC0QA5-IgEcXdn2lm1e3o7mv9WXAGWW76q_e9d97yelE/s1600/IMG_6993+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nako Village" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivPvjv5vw830zSEEbuYiYGZrm7HHZkYRiZSnD7c7zanMZT7DwpBigmlI13QzZYPiMFRTyOnTs_f9fhukaDbJYoOEKR5jC-WLDtC0QA5-IgEcXdn2lm1e3o7mv9WXAGWW76q_e9d97yelE/s640/IMG_6993+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Nako Village" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nako Village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSqwRqnQsypJguDOeSPstFkrntJNjVafQk6pxT4iWvZf5a71iQmjyGcquxX18PHabFNk0cMSd3BnW706PktscLyRNN78KmxU1i-_UzoK7fp31rjC1VhW2TfhAg056JNkUq5er2y-IPU0/s1600/Nako+Lake+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nako Lake" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSqwRqnQsypJguDOeSPstFkrntJNjVafQk6pxT4iWvZf5a71iQmjyGcquxX18PHabFNk0cMSd3BnW706PktscLyRNN78KmxU1i-_UzoK7fp31rjC1VhW2TfhAg056JNkUq5er2y-IPU0/s640/Nako+Lake+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Nako Lake" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nako Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
were all a little disappointed after the Nako Lake. Very near Nako we stopped
over for a simple lunch of rajma and chawal. Since we had used our spare tire,
our driver asked another tourist Innova (our driver knew that car’s driver) to
accompany us as they were also heading to Tabo. On our way to Tabo we got our
spare tire rectified and we were now good to go.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrTiBOEZ6tiQjOLjZaiTU8xsPMVHveVKF-WWhzkLzxr2kFqTgy5gopEEkaKBydVVgR1PQkgxKjNXwNDyJKDHnVquT1eH04_UYbJ5FwqOt-dmrOFtvz4l-HgdBFtuV5Lwe6LkSXSqrFeg/s1600/IMG_7002+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Near Nako" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrTiBOEZ6tiQjOLjZaiTU8xsPMVHveVKF-WWhzkLzxr2kFqTgy5gopEEkaKBydVVgR1PQkgxKjNXwNDyJKDHnVquT1eH04_UYbJ5FwqOt-dmrOFtvz4l-HgdBFtuV5Lwe6LkSXSqrFeg/s640/IMG_7002+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Near Nako" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Nako</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJh3wCF1UnLFR-0he4mAkozeWa5-jDrYtAEJtVckoub7reUDDBZUvWydSEyBgziGJHYkgP1vbLO0m5Ww4cnbzHloSqnrnpuz8Y83JKx8Q_zam50oqpMHs0M7L9qTJZIFxv8TVE-C5jU6o/s1600/Simple+Lunch+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lunch near Nako - Rajma Chawal and Onion.." border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJh3wCF1UnLFR-0he4mAkozeWa5-jDrYtAEJtVckoub7reUDDBZUvWydSEyBgziGJHYkgP1vbLO0m5Ww4cnbzHloSqnrnpuz8Y83JKx8Q_zam50oqpMHs0M7L9qTJZIFxv8TVE-C5jU6o/s640/Simple+Lunch+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Lunch near Nako - Rajma Chawal and Onion.." width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch near Nako - Rajma Chawal and Onion..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">A
few kms before Tabo, we came across a cemented gate on our right which heads to
Gue Village. Gue is famous for a 650 year old mummy and is worth a visit. From
the gate it is an 8 kms drive and the mummy is placed on a hill top and is hard
to miss. After visiting the mummy and taking few pictures we drove back 8 kms
till the cemented gate and headed to Tabo.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6dsiEDNCddsg52NXcgFLflRF8nisp22bz6Nj2wV1TJb1IHxDMnwc22EdWHq5vp4EQmHpUnq_zRiHkcmNzrgjvRXDCZlp-OrJtd3BF57wDtgGlTye0f8Jhv91Pe9K4-YfWRghKz93P2o/s1600/IMG_7025+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Gue - Mummy & Monastery" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6dsiEDNCddsg52NXcgFLflRF8nisp22bz6Nj2wV1TJb1IHxDMnwc22EdWHq5vp4EQmHpUnq_zRiHkcmNzrgjvRXDCZlp-OrJtd3BF57wDtgGlTye0f8Jhv91Pe9K4-YfWRghKz93P2o/s640/IMG_7025+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Gue - Mummy & Monastery" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gue - Mummy & Monastery</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUcTJa-RBH2dbiej_DE2jGvOnL-HqrPqt2dm2RNsRS1mPxWFZmXS7R-72pGpbEc6QjzQXa0cM6jdAVExuyED9-wXVKcZCAKhVVpbm-Xx4KD0a1wSUspdKpGepAS6xA5x4RnK8TJkteTc/s1600/Gue+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Gue Village" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUcTJa-RBH2dbiej_DE2jGvOnL-HqrPqt2dm2RNsRS1mPxWFZmXS7R-72pGpbEc6QjzQXa0cM6jdAVExuyED9-wXVKcZCAKhVVpbm-Xx4KD0a1wSUspdKpGepAS6xA5x4RnK8TJkteTc/s640/Gue+Collage.jpg" title="Gue Village" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gue Village</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Primary
attraction of Tabo is a 1000 year old monastery and it is because of this
monastery that Spiti came on the Travel World Map. There are many guesthouses
to stay at Tabo including a guest house of the monastery. Tabo is located in the
middle of the sand mountains and it had more foreigners than Indians.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
all were tired after a long day on road, so we decided to relax and visit the
monastery tomorrow morning. We had tea and snacks in the guesthouse and then
headed to our every evening ritual of transferring pictures and videos on Pramod’s
laptop and seeing the same.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
seeing all the pictures of the day we again headed downstairs for dinner.
Tonight was the first night when Nikhil faced problem sleeping because of the
altitude. He tried sleeping wit<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>h his head raised by
putting extra pillows under his head; he tried sleeping in a sitting position.
It was a bad night for him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Points to Note:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Book an Innova or a Xylo for a comfortable travel. As the roads are bad travel in Sumo or Maxx can be cumbersome.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Although the distance between places (at times) is not far because of the rough terrain it takes a considerable time to go from one place to another. So plan accordingly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">It is advised to start your day early and reach your destination while it is daylight. Please avoid driving once the sun sets. Driving in dark can be very dangerous.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Please carry warm clothes including sweater, jacket, cap, mufflers, socks and gloves. Wear shoes and not sandals or chappals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Be easy on steps and while walking. Avoid brisk walk or running at high altitudes as the oxygen level is low.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">If you are feeling mountain sickness have chocolate or popcorn. It helps. Make it a point of sipping in water regularly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Please don’t litter and maintain the beauty of nature.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">In Kalpa we stayed at Hotel Golden Apple and in Tabo at Hotel Tiger Den. The rooms are huge in Hotel Golden Apple with beautiful view from rooms and terrace. The monastery and the temple at Kalpa are ten mins walk from the hotel. The rooms in Hotel Tiger Den are small but it is very close to Tabo Monastery. Tabo, as such, is a very small village.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Don't miss taking the extra drive to Chitkul from Sangla. Its worth the drive. The views are beautiful.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">You can stop at Nako for lunch and can see the lake. Also, before Tabo take a turn and drive extra 8 kms to see the mummy at Gue. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Don't forget to stop over and appreciate the views. After all the journey is as important as the destination.</span></li>
</ul>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh 172108, India31.5389997 78.25188630000002431.5254662 78.231716300000031 31.552533200000003 78.272056300000017tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-51272652478599561202016-08-12T12:26:00.000+05:302016-08-23T13:08:53.963+05:30Chandigarh – Narkanda – Sarahan – Sangla (8,900 Ft)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>DAY 1
: CHANDIGARH – SHIMLA – KUFRI – NARKANDA (8,650 Feet</b>)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Finally
after months of planning and research the day had come when we flew to
Chandigarh to start our road trip to Spiti. We had booked a Go Air Flight from
Mumbai to Chandigarh and had booked an Innova for the entire circuit:
Chandigarh - Kinnaur - Spiti - Manali - Chandigarh. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
all met at the Mumbai Domestic Airport at 7:15 am for 8:35 am flight. Our
flight got half an hour delayed and we landed at Chandigarh at 11:30 am
approx. Chandigarh airport has been
newly revamped (ground floor for arrival, first floor for departure). We met
our driver – Mr. Romi – a lean and tall smiling man, wearing his customary
Kinnaur Cap. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Once
our luggage was loaded, we were all set to start our EPIC Trip to Kinnaur &
Spiti. From Chandigarh Airport we started towards Shimla and it was not long
before we saw the beautiful view of the mountain range. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCd-5RwMMCRw66wCbt20aD2pmhlbM_Qzc91_JWGbk_BjVMRGppsPR1EwJU9JnthIV-4WbiNiivESJH7W_wbs86UtN_WqunWcLUhXOLRUa0nNdpENMSf7klb5VqVuT0rr5oBVQNK8S-3I/s1600/IMG_6120+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCd-5RwMMCRw66wCbt20aD2pmhlbM_Qzc91_JWGbk_BjVMRGppsPR1EwJU9JnthIV-4WbiNiivESJH7W_wbs86UtN_WqunWcLUhXOLRUa0nNdpENMSf7klb5VqVuT0rr5oBVQNK8S-3I/s640/IMG_6120+%2528Large%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
hills, the clouds were soothing to our eyes. None of us had thought that we
will be seeing the mountains within an hour of our landing in Chandigarh.
Initially we all were so excited and talking non-stop --- see this.. oh look at
that… ahh see that peak… but after the
initial excitement subsided we all were quietly admiring the beauty… taking it
all in.. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4VmcgdzM6V-ZoMVxdtDCmtAWnQTzlMVuU_66vp4P0OfAey2dMLgKjOM1KDOoIq_tQf4cc1ce9RHmPDRm_CCNOh7YzfTk7R9AT8xa_FUSz539dSQ0nMApAuHGR_WtM1RXDNe0hJJ1Suw/s1600/IMG_6121+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4VmcgdzM6V-ZoMVxdtDCmtAWnQTzlMVuU_66vp4P0OfAey2dMLgKjOM1KDOoIq_tQf4cc1ce9RHmPDRm_CCNOh7YzfTk7R9AT8xa_FUSz539dSQ0nMApAuHGR_WtM1RXDNe0hJJ1Suw/s640/IMG_6121+%2528Large%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
were quite hungry and stopped over at a local dhaba named Shanty Bunty Da Punjabi Dhaba before Shimla for lunch and
had our first finger licking dal makhani and naan with loads and loads of butter (Ymmmm... I love north indian food). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqw0-tgx_10qEbUyLJDI3cMo01tHpSjrjECjQmcjsSTB-wGqQ1sV8l7yl6Z10Zsb0E82ioGFnIez5YgZ3hyphenhyphenOuyZveNEUzos30J5G6jhT1t1uhPW8930UxYv20U_RiD9HreLqpRz8_cj_I/s1600/Restaurant+where+we+had+amazing+daal+makhani+and+naan+with+loads+of+butter.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqw0-tgx_10qEbUyLJDI3cMo01tHpSjrjECjQmcjsSTB-wGqQ1sV8l7yl6Z10Zsb0E82ioGFnIez5YgZ3hyphenhyphenOuyZveNEUzos30J5G6jhT1t1uhPW8930UxYv20U_RiD9HreLqpRz8_cj_I/s640/Restaurant+where+we+had+amazing+daal+makhani+and+naan+with+loads+of+butter.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Shimla
is one of the most popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh (other being
Manali) and is a honey moon paradise. We could see mountains being broken in
order to make a broader road till Shimla. After Solan, we were welcomed by cool
breeze and it had started drizzling. There were times when we were not able to
see the mountains as everything was covered with thick clouds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Since
it was a Saturday, many people were making their way to Shimla. Due to that
there was heavy traffic and it took us a long time to cross Shimla. It felt as
if I was in Mumbai again, just with a better view. Mall Road was packed, with
crazy tourists buying everything in sight from Chappals to Jewellery to shawls.
Half the traffic is because of tourists busy taking pictures and selfies. Post
Shimla towards Kufri, there were hardly any vehicles on the road. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">It
was at Kufri some 13 Kms from Shimla, where we stopped to have some light
snacks and tea. Just when we got out of the car, we realized that it was cold,
infact very cold. We all looked for a light sweater or jacket. Once we got hold
of some warm clothes we saw the beautiful view near our restaurant. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisk9kLOVubda9Zt0cgTyt-h-Minq6Zuq05IpatCvfZcpagbK93YjYmzFcG5UbrR9Vl7hpWkza3R5txlcloNUGBw7_bkm5CEOEOrQFmH117bTKnUz2rPOCz_Y6jqbY82-Vl3Nh_fKUM_9w/s1600/Kufri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View from Kufri" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisk9kLOVubda9Zt0cgTyt-h-Minq6Zuq05IpatCvfZcpagbK93YjYmzFcG5UbrR9Vl7hpWkza3R5txlcloNUGBw7_bkm5CEOEOrQFmH117bTKnUz2rPOCz_Y6jqbY82-Vl3Nh_fKUM_9w/s640/Kufri.jpg" title="View from Kufri" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Kufri</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The
mountain range, the clouds… it was beautiful. The valley is full of pine and
deodar trees and so dense that you can hardly see the rugged brown colour of
the mountains. We wanted to spend some more time here by just enjoying the view
but then we had to reach Narkanda for our night stay. On our way we noticed
that en route there are so many trees on the mountain that the only colour that
we could see is green. But darkness slowly descended and we couldn’t see much
of the stunning landscape en-route.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">By
the time we reached Narkanda, it was dark. Our homestay was a little ahead of
the main town in a very remote area. During the drive from the main town to our
home stay I felt as if I have come to the sets of ‘Twilight’ movie. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuy_8mrnL4hOTiuORXHlJaas7ycRwy5hyphenhyphenuiQxQc8TX-Epmonn0jYXDggCvaPSdMPPuEV6YFvPf4uSukDWYimKI_roSepHjlhDdaFondjDtUu43aeBdygJYOWIl1pvPnanbk-PhbQjLSAA/s1600/Narkanda.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Narkanda" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuy_8mrnL4hOTiuORXHlJaas7ycRwy5hyphenhyphenuiQxQc8TX-Epmonn0jYXDggCvaPSdMPPuEV6YFvPf4uSukDWYimKI_roSepHjlhDdaFondjDtUu43aeBdygJYOWIl1pvPnanbk-PhbQjLSAA/s640/Narkanda.JPG" title="Narkanda" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Beautiful Narkanda</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Narkanda
is a beautiful location and if you have time you can visit Hatu Mata Temple. We
didn’t have the time and therefore gave it a miss.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Narkanda
could be a very chilly experience, so keep some woolens handy. The place where
we stayed (Hatu Homestay) was in the middle of hills…. And therefore very
chilly.. Our rooms were were nice and cozy with a sprawling balcony. The chilly
winds compelled us to slip into our warm clothing and our belly was warmed by home
cooked food which was simple and delicious. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">There
is nothing much to do at Narkanda except to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
Btw Narkanda is a skiing resort in winters. Before I realized, I had slipped
into a peaceful sleep satisfied with my day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><b>DAY 2
- NARKANDA- RAMPUR- SARAHAN- WANGTOO- SANGLA<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a> (8,900 Feet)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Dot
at 5 am, I opened my eyes. (It’s a mystery how I wake up early at such places
without an alarm). I got out of the warm bed to have a look at the mountains in
the morning. From the balcony I could see the mountains covered with thick pine
trees as if they are wearing a dark green colour robe. The clouds were like a
crown on their head. I sat in the balcony for some time appreciating the view
and solace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
a while I went to wake everyone up. Since it was going to be a long day for us
on the road and we had decided to stop over at Sarahan to see the Bhimkali
Temple, we started our day early. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
a simple bread butter, omelet and tea we hit the road. It was cloudy and little
chilly in the morning. After driving for 15-20 kms from Narkanda we saw the
first view of River Sutlej. The roads were in good condition and quite scenic,
with the mighty river flowing on your left. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Sarahan’s
primary attraction is Bhimkali Temple (one of the 51 shakti peeths), dedicated
to goddess Bhimkali. Sarahan is a small place but you could find decent
accommodation here if you decide to stay overnight and enjoy the relaxed
atmosphere of this place. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInxaRsm3KJ-ouPG9NYpyQ8npywhVRMQy6T7ifGL6lyi17lLcbbXgbkTyVyZQsxakAfEqKHZNJToUYj3nMJvCVRyW9REbtTgyMzKw4IAaj1BW2rno60vvw_2opyjNJ0m0_Ro-3H-uw0O4/s1600/IMG_6208+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bhimkali temple, Sarahan" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInxaRsm3KJ-ouPG9NYpyQ8npywhVRMQy6T7ifGL6lyi17lLcbbXgbkTyVyZQsxakAfEqKHZNJToUYj3nMJvCVRyW9REbtTgyMzKw4IAaj1BW2rno60vvw_2opyjNJ0m0_Ro-3H-uw0O4/s640/IMG_6208+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Bhimkali temple, Sarahan" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bhimkali Temple, Sarahan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1O58jFMK6rkiuOSQJ0IKyo23_naGDkLwGwli_9uF-fF0hvBbY8Aj1tpBFbivMjr24tym0iQaQbLKhlKiv7o9yqtDPfPfRttjGez0spdnZP-OjCqmzhQjP58tlVHMOm7DFfbzZTUsikHw/s1600/Inside+Bhimkali+Temple+Compound.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Inside Bhimkali Temple Compound" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1O58jFMK6rkiuOSQJ0IKyo23_naGDkLwGwli_9uF-fF0hvBbY8Aj1tpBFbivMjr24tym0iQaQbLKhlKiv7o9yqtDPfPfRttjGez0spdnZP-OjCqmzhQjP58tlVHMOm7DFfbzZTUsikHw/s640/Inside+Bhimkali+Temple+Compound.JPG" title="Inside Bhimkali Temple Compound" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Bhimkali Temple Compound</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">At
the vicinity of the temple you will get to see the green carpeted mountains and
in the middle of these mountains will be equally beautiful temple of Goddess
Kali. The temple is made in a unique style with wood and is simple amazing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">You
are not allowed to carry your cameras and mobile phones inside the temple and
have to cover your head. You can cover it with any cloth or there are caps
(made available by the temple – free of charge) which you can use.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
temple is carved in wood and the doors are made of silver. You have to climb
three floors to reach the deity’s worship place. After your visit to the
temple, stroll around the compound; appreciate the simplicity and uniqueness of
the temple. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANapg_fcQilLqt534VTaoj7fZzLtDKg3p0-sJbHIMUhSuQaymQLQiJEFjb-Zj0M-Zuic9xdOQckw3ww62QigacwrtnkeQS2mtDvkVXm3GRZN6iLi72Amw03T_DMwIgzw0b36PJ3VBRfM/s1600/Bhimkali+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Unique architecture of Bhimkali Temple, Sarahan" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANapg_fcQilLqt534VTaoj7fZzLtDKg3p0-sJbHIMUhSuQaymQLQiJEFjb-Zj0M-Zuic9xdOQckw3ww62QigacwrtnkeQS2mtDvkVXm3GRZN6iLi72Amw03T_DMwIgzw0b36PJ3VBRfM/s640/Bhimkali+Collage.jpg" title="Unique architecture of Bhimkali Temple, Sarahan" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unique architecture of Bhimkali Temple, Sarahan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Treat
yourself with some aloo samosa near the temple… they are delicious.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Post
Sarahan, the road quality deteriorates near Wangtu. At Karcham you will see the
huge dam on the river Sutlej. After the dam, there is a bridge where the road
bifurcates for Kalpa and Sangla. Take the road to Sangla. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoA8EOspIt-0DSUyczpL5DszmvFuLqFcc_BniBa2XFJYtWJGCfborAnPALRjcNO4AzR-dXJ-c5QqmruI-Gatgsz_as5RfRBTFU2eCaqdOiAcEYTR6TFVJ5Ao7cy8NOX8w42aMGIt4i6Y/s1600/Muddy+Roads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Muddy Road" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoA8EOspIt-0DSUyczpL5DszmvFuLqFcc_BniBa2XFJYtWJGCfborAnPALRjcNO4AzR-dXJ-c5QqmruI-Gatgsz_as5RfRBTFU2eCaqdOiAcEYTR6TFVJ5Ao7cy8NOX8w42aMGIt4i6Y/s640/Muddy+Roads.jpg" title="Muddy Road" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Muddy Road</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxvg-ZEf2Xb1Mclz6ODa0dAfkJOwKvUt4W3VOPaFBMW1pBGayq_SYWl-EVst0ucx-hsFklKtHFHAcFYg5iW8FjsVips3vByJIBX8ZdBRiXqH29Y7andd8GPQhS5hAXDiJz65hObrZDeg/s1600/View+enroute+Sangla.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxvg-ZEf2Xb1Mclz6ODa0dAfkJOwKvUt4W3VOPaFBMW1pBGayq_SYWl-EVst0ucx-hsFklKtHFHAcFYg5iW8FjsVips3vByJIBX8ZdBRiXqH29Y7andd8GPQhS5hAXDiJz65hObrZDeg/s640/View+enroute+Sangla.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picturesque Journey </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">After
a few kms uphill you will enter the beautiful Sangla Valley. The drive from Karcham
to Sangla is very scenic. The road is surrounded by think forest slopes
offering lovely views of the high mountains. You will feel the drop in the
temperature and Baspa River flowing along with you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjEd9KrKTJzkxL99Fe7qSkKlKXFdt5d6gytmMXKQiVUI_MGzjwTkcBTIrGQ1W76WQo9HXvB5RGcvCbAtigmsq754A_riPhXpVsLjofhyphenhyphen9ibr4xK7gl0kLCeFc0UXcoMy5m4EiIbO9wYU/s1600/Roads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Beautiful way to Sangla" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjEd9KrKTJzkxL99Fe7qSkKlKXFdt5d6gytmMXKQiVUI_MGzjwTkcBTIrGQ1W76WQo9HXvB5RGcvCbAtigmsq754A_riPhXpVsLjofhyphenhyphen9ibr4xK7gl0kLCeFc0UXcoMy5m4EiIbO9wYU/s640/Roads.jpg" title="The Beautiful way to Sangla" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Beautiful way to Sangla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTsaJ2rQbHjXl1xLBuGvD8WdLpxxFJfwf83sldXpapR_sa269u6-nJ9a55Nb49fdW26THq8R5lqa1SiziA6dCjbAFLz7iObGH9idib1-mpioRKflbQhsmvzPA4GnO1LuHeBgjn0pVsqP0/s1600/Sangla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enroute Sangla" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTsaJ2rQbHjXl1xLBuGvD8WdLpxxFJfwf83sldXpapR_sa269u6-nJ9a55Nb49fdW26THq8R5lqa1SiziA6dCjbAFLz7iObGH9idib1-mpioRKflbQhsmvzPA4GnO1LuHeBgjn0pVsqP0/s640/Sangla.jpg" title="Enroute Sangla" width="510" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enroute Sangla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Sangla
is a big town and has several guest houses available. We stayed over at Prakash
Guesthouse – the rooms were spacious, hill facing and hot water was available.
A tip – have your bath whenever the hot water is available, as power goes
often, hence there is no guarantee of 24 hours hot water.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT9iBFEki1xnpn89kmVlp0OnmRTnlvUFi0zORHum0H9lg0qG0paSieFadgNRk1N-5t2b38_6bWYV8bHy4FH7X9hOH0vomzz4zTQWT98P73jVOJtpgjUKkk9kvdNISrloeev2R9R6VlNT0/s1600/Clouds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Clouds playing with the Mountains" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT9iBFEki1xnpn89kmVlp0OnmRTnlvUFi0zORHum0H9lg0qG0paSieFadgNRk1N-5t2b38_6bWYV8bHy4FH7X9hOH0vomzz4zTQWT98P73jVOJtpgjUKkk9kvdNISrloeev2R9R6VlNT0/s640/Clouds.JPG" title="Clouds playing with the Mountains" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clouds playing with the Mountains</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcC0tLMMq7kKC8S39I8jfgUUELkT4Y-UTrngdrBWUMQ21204osJyhxBmlfOD1s-9xMI9rp7bmoD37YTXbAuyRvNRPnXB0EQb8AnXfjaIFV3F_4L3ZX1jFzHOkMFvT1uSFF-PngxBzhhQ/s1600/Sangla+Town.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcC0tLMMq7kKC8S39I8jfgUUELkT4Y-UTrngdrBWUMQ21204osJyhxBmlfOD1s-9xMI9rp7bmoD37YTXbAuyRvNRPnXB0EQb8AnXfjaIFV3F_4L3ZX1jFzHOkMFvT1uSFF-PngxBzhhQ/s640/Sangla+Town.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Sangla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnT8j5OnbAzLY0CyznC4fhuZaZJj8quHfkrbZZ0kmFmcJd6wIV6SomR3VdO9fzOWNH77lEgs4vP3ZR0RaTHxTJxmxTf1rHijClphHDHlmSF3-QGY1S5-wsiY_sh46CSq2yjhRcvuXx9Y/s1600/Snow.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Another View from Sangla" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnT8j5OnbAzLY0CyznC4fhuZaZJj8quHfkrbZZ0kmFmcJd6wIV6SomR3VdO9fzOWNH77lEgs4vP3ZR0RaTHxTJxmxTf1rHijClphHDHlmSF3-QGY1S5-wsiY_sh46CSq2yjhRcvuXx9Y/s640/Snow.JPG" title="Another View from Sangla" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another View from Sangla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5fLKeDVHNs7L7HAVTkRT3Zkk1dLfNg-HX9Pp_MxhEyv0gqvhd0sgNbMKdppPrviVbY_xgJCydsPs7McSbrqi-DKDZn54aWbUm9FHaRaXdj4ovK_O4mcyTEMFD0cIb1MFwM0eoQ4Euqrc/s1600/Sun+on+the+hills.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A Ray of Sun" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5fLKeDVHNs7L7HAVTkRT3Zkk1dLfNg-HX9Pp_MxhEyv0gqvhd0sgNbMKdppPrviVbY_xgJCydsPs7McSbrqi-DKDZn54aWbUm9FHaRaXdj4ovK_O4mcyTEMFD0cIb1MFwM0eoQ4Euqrc/s640/Sun+on+the+hills.JPG" title="A Ray of Sun" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Ray of Sun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Sangla
is located at a picturesque location and has Berinag Temple and Kamru Fort as
attraction. At Sangla, if you are lucky with the sky being clear you can have a
marvelous view of Kinner Kailash, a mountain sacred to Hindus. It was evening
by the time we reached Sangla. After resting for an hour we headed to Nages
Temple. It was a twenty mins walk from our guesthouse – in between which we saw
the hide and seek of hills and clouds. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Berinag
Temple is again a temple in wood and has a Buddha Temple also in its compound.
It’s a beautiful and ancient piece of architecture which will make you feel at
peace. We saw some localities at the temple who had come to relax in the
evening and catch up with each other. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlSRwKBE36Ay2FDaWGh8chkOvSA3fo8GT6ErVVzirC9nj4dSL5yelDeoi_WDhyPHw2kkQSBQs3r6S6qqG1GzzVkrv6YCkd7KWUJlGadUNpu9_Rz7Yq4zgZHU2Zd6g3aAJ97aKGx1KWY-s/s1600/IMG_6455+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Berinag Temple, Sangla" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlSRwKBE36Ay2FDaWGh8chkOvSA3fo8GT6ErVVzirC9nj4dSL5yelDeoi_WDhyPHw2kkQSBQs3r6S6qqG1GzzVkrv6YCkd7KWUJlGadUNpu9_Rz7Yq4zgZHU2Zd6g3aAJ97aKGx1KWY-s/s640/IMG_6455+%2528Large%2529.JPG" title="Berinag Temple, Sangla" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Berinag Temple, Sangla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_bNlJFD4_csfcWIxHWskTyIRYfIT-da1w96KBBWfiECNJDSw1PBCnRPIVHbsVfFpdXblz8_BEUeYDCi-0N8w2SMyPitUQkRl8TC9lPAca3xPPV5n6HsXZFcTx7IrJaFJAUGTBZcqqUI/s1600/Berinag+Temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Inside Berinag Temple" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_bNlJFD4_csfcWIxHWskTyIRYfIT-da1w96KBBWfiECNJDSw1PBCnRPIVHbsVfFpdXblz8_BEUeYDCi-0N8w2SMyPitUQkRl8TC9lPAca3xPPV5n6HsXZFcTx7IrJaFJAUGTBZcqqUI/s640/Berinag+Temple.jpg" title="Inside Berinag Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Berinag Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">By the time we had reached the temple,
the inner sanctum doors were closed. The temple closes by 7-7:30 pm, so make
sure you reach before then. Since it was already getting dark we decided to
head back to our hotel.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Points to Note:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Book an Innova or a Xylo for a
comfortable travel. As the roads are bad travel in Sumo or Maxx can be
cumbersome.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Although the distance between
places (at times) is not far because of the rough terrain it takes a considerable time to
go from one place to another. So plan accordingly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">It is advised to start your day early and reach your destination while it is daylight. Please avoid driving once the sun sets. Driving in dark can be very dangerous.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Please carry warm clothes
including sweater, jacket, cap, mufflers, socks and gloves. Wear shoes and not
sandals or chappals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Be easy on steps and while
walking. Avoid brisk walk or running at high altitudes as the oxygen level is
low.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">If you are feeling mountain
sickness have chocolate or popcorn. It helps. Make it a point of sipping in water regularly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Please don’t litter and maintain the beauty of nature.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">In Narkanda we stayed at Hatu Peak Guesthouse and in Sangla at Prakash Guesthouse. In both the places are rooms are cosy and the food delicious.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;">Don't forget to stop over and appreciate the views. After all the journey is as important as the destination.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Sangla, Himachal Pradesh 172106, India31.4254859 78.2649956000000231.411936400000002 78.244825600000027 31.4390354 78.285165600000013tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-46960857149236867272016-08-08T16:04:00.002+05:302016-08-08T20:47:51.296+05:30Road Trip around Spiti Valley in 10 Days<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
had come back from our wonderful trip to Kerala and Lakshadweep in October 2015
and it was in the month of January 2016 when I started pondering on “where to
go next?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">I
was keen on revisiting Ladakh but had still not made my mind. That is when I
saw a picture of Kee Monastery… and bang… I got the answer to my question.. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_2VMwJYG8OgEG6j8WX9rPL8I7bk1HVk88Ev6VNmwjan9LsEFIvoKrurF4jli4WnYJ1_taPqtZoaBL8I37PuY_MENI87olNFYepYwyQgc9yBy_9JIkIq6Cwe5JFnajCnoyK-nKCW9nZw/s1600/IMG_3330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kee Monastery" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_2VMwJYG8OgEG6j8WX9rPL8I7bk1HVk88Ev6VNmwjan9LsEFIvoKrurF4jli4WnYJ1_taPqtZoaBL8I37PuY_MENI87olNFYepYwyQgc9yBy_9JIkIq6Cwe5JFnajCnoyK-nKCW9nZw/s640/IMG_3330.JPG" title="Kee Monastery" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kee Monastery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">By
February I had researched quite a bit on Spiti and had decided to do a road
trip to Kinnaur and Spiti Valley in the month of July. Spiti according to me is
a world inside another world because of its remoteness. There is no airport in
Spiti, closest airport being Shimla or Kullu. Spiti Valley is one of the
gemstone in Himachal Pradesh, which most of the people are not even aware about.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Situated
at the North East region of Himachal Pradesh, it is a part of Lahaul and Spiti
District. Rohtang Pass at 13,045 feet (3,979 m) separates Lahaul and Spiti from
Kullu Valley. And Lahaul and Spiti are separated by Kunzum Pass at 15,059 feet
(4,590 m) which offers breathtaking views. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Calling
it a paradise on earth won’t be wrong; as the world’s mightiest mountain range
– the Himalayas – makes Spiti a perfect destination for adventure travel
seekers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Home
to a numerous Buddhist Monasteries, white washed houses, breathtaking
mountains, Spiti feels even more remote and rugged than Ladakh. The valley is
also home to one of the nest road trips in Asia – Spiti - Kinnaur Route.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">What
else do you need for a memorable holiday???<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">In
the first week of July this year, five and a half of us – Pramod, Preeti,
Taashi (half), Nikhil, Nikki (my sister – first time on our annual vacation) and me - embarked
on a trip to the less popular but equally surreal cousin of Ladakh : Spiti
Valley, Himachal Pradesh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">After
our visit to Sikkim, finally I was back to where I belong, “The Mighty
Himalayan Peaks”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">It
is said that the journey is more important than the destination and this trip
proves just that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Before sharing my road trip experience in
detail to Kinnaur & Spiti, I want to share a glimpse of our trip. <o:p></o:p></span><br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVjuDeDSIIyLheUQAYh_pi3uzuJlzU4Z9wlUpIVHeC55O8n3mpKGS8f-4HnCg54P4DyH1DwM29wEE27wLD-3PSctRPe9WHcS6HzNPhQYEYWylcrPOS866tnZ_06GvB7J-JHMheykrrHw/s1600/route+grid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tribal Circuit" border="0" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVjuDeDSIIyLheUQAYh_pi3uzuJlzU4Z9wlUpIVHeC55O8n3mpKGS8f-4HnCg54P4DyH1DwM29wEE27wLD-3PSctRPe9WHcS6HzNPhQYEYWylcrPOS866tnZ_06GvB7J-JHMheykrrHw/s640/route+grid.jpg" title="Tribal Circuit" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tribal Circuit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
did the Tribal Circuit – Entering from Shimla, passing through Kinnaur region,
entering Spiti and exiting from Manali.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Our
itinerary for this trip was as follows:</span><br>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Day 1 - </span><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Chandigarh- Shimla- Kufri- Narkanda<br>
Day 2 - Narkanda- Rampur- Sarahan- Wangtoo- Sangla<br>
Day 3 - Sangla- Chitkul- Kalpa<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Day 4 – Kalpa- Pooh- Khab-
Nako- Sumdo- Tabo<br>
Day 5 - Tabo- Dhankar- Kaza<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype", serif;">Day 6 -
Kaza- Kye- Khibber- Kaza</span><br>
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Day 7 - Kaza- Hikkim- Komic- Langza-Kaza<br>
Day 8 - Kaza- Lohsar- Kunzum Pass- Chandrataal Lake<br>
Day 9 - Chandrataal- Batal- Chatru- Gramphoo- Rohtang Pass- Manali<br>
Day 10 - Manali- Kullu- Mandi- Chandigarh- Mumbai<br>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Some
of the pics to give you a sense of the beauty:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTMW6QJFayWopQh_QuEru2um5rW0cZM3BM7XoE3wTbGXYCwZB3Ky1HTxJJJ_Q67ZnFe-nz6uoKwy3M1e6_pdktzMykO1MYv9tv2b-FqSqAjMbGKogAv81Hvz38id3oF-PKE0UcBtHsZew/s1600/IMG_3005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Narkanda" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTMW6QJFayWopQh_QuEru2um5rW0cZM3BM7XoE3wTbGXYCwZB3Ky1HTxJJJ_Q67ZnFe-nz6uoKwy3M1e6_pdktzMykO1MYv9tv2b-FqSqAjMbGKogAv81Hvz38id3oF-PKE0UcBtHsZew/s640/IMG_3005.JPG" title="Narkanda" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View at Narkanda</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt94Ue2VrhufhxvjDCpB7GTGI_1pxySzEziVvg3T7003qW1fWYJlDiR5UnYedcLJiwEYa1e1RNUFPy6Q53bVKOhMQXuDT17cb15li5Tiak7Yi83UBJTDh2YSkBbS1M-mElG7CdaWAAUes/s1600/IMG_3029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Beautiful Hills" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt94Ue2VrhufhxvjDCpB7GTGI_1pxySzEziVvg3T7003qW1fWYJlDiR5UnYedcLJiwEYa1e1RNUFPy6Q53bVKOhMQXuDT17cb15li5Tiak7Yi83UBJTDh2YSkBbS1M-mElG7CdaWAAUes/s640/IMG_3029.JPG" title="Beautiful Hills" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Hills</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7QBnqLFcqNj-X_RAmUeabFQF0MG9swIJiXvK5ddYmV-wxxsIIJl-zoClO0XnF-cX1SEGD2p-svy5N97ANQeeRYToJQI4TSCcdV8fxiaylXKQpIVYqAan-a7ulUI2GbwtU54JFiwmaEBk/s1600/IMG_3125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mesmerizing Himalayas" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7QBnqLFcqNj-X_RAmUeabFQF0MG9swIJiXvK5ddYmV-wxxsIIJl-zoClO0XnF-cX1SEGD2p-svy5N97ANQeeRYToJQI4TSCcdV8fxiaylXKQpIVYqAan-a7ulUI2GbwtU54JFiwmaEBk/s640/IMG_3125.JPG" title="Mesmerizing Himalayas" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mesmerizing Himalayas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YU2gfwfr9sgG0D_WuENnf0hyjW0ZXl3UixgGWMQQoPhEVoPBNOBuohwnqQz0bmox500BKSmM3OCX0vUKDIlWGPqzntD0kyCpZly9NZSCyxVQS0wxXjmGcVebR582DWyZWK0Tcx6FGj8/s1600/IMG_3146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalpa" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YU2gfwfr9sgG0D_WuENnf0hyjW0ZXl3UixgGWMQQoPhEVoPBNOBuohwnqQz0bmox500BKSmM3OCX0vUKDIlWGPqzntD0kyCpZly9NZSCyxVQS0wxXjmGcVebR582DWyZWK0Tcx6FGj8/s640/IMG_3146.JPG" title="Kalpa" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalpa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemPAKg-a6yadXKWDBzCr7hXZtYY2nkpaxm0PrexzsKqw40EO2ru15Te-UHNm-NpQnl-ka0jgewlwSv1Lq6YOXdL30L6ncoSPhlGon-YJ1NlDMTjRoRYDJoq0XX0XUEd4KNWd1s9VNK5A/s1600/IMG_3299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kibber Village" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemPAKg-a6yadXKWDBzCr7hXZtYY2nkpaxm0PrexzsKqw40EO2ru15Te-UHNm-NpQnl-ka0jgewlwSv1Lq6YOXdL30L6ncoSPhlGon-YJ1NlDMTjRoRYDJoq0XX0XUEd4KNWd1s9VNK5A/s640/IMG_3299.JPG" title="Kibber Village" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kibber Village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzXyuiW6kntW-Np8fuTfU3q8e0BrIKghYDCE-GI0AVtZeCv-dkK5Mj3jG6G8Fgw8i6nMTz6GHKmxlEfjkj3CpRRPlpP4yDYWjTdMFUEyuIeDINLRGpWRkdr6gWbzWMKz8zh4lFXK0R54/s1600/IMG_7675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Buddha Statue at Langza" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzXyuiW6kntW-Np8fuTfU3q8e0BrIKghYDCE-GI0AVtZeCv-dkK5Mj3jG6G8Fgw8i6nMTz6GHKmxlEfjkj3CpRRPlpP4yDYWjTdMFUEyuIeDINLRGpWRkdr6gWbzWMKz8zh4lFXK0R54/s640/IMG_7675.JPG" title="Buddha Statue at Langza" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buddha Statue at Langza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBzKxUWx9fnm1-zkAVwFCQkg1zA-WLCueSYcA-S3Ye3W_8shAuQB6mQsHobQqbAD3quaTUX-bqufxQACqJUVSQjNxGXLo94Exlr-mDFq_Y5CwxWiAc0LefaXgYHKFTKq66K-xl4Vj2x0/s1600/IMG_3417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chandrataal" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBzKxUWx9fnm1-zkAVwFCQkg1zA-WLCueSYcA-S3Ye3W_8shAuQB6mQsHobQqbAD3quaTUX-bqufxQACqJUVSQjNxGXLo94Exlr-mDFq_Y5CwxWiAc0LefaXgYHKFTKq66K-xl4Vj2x0/s640/IMG_3417.JPG" title="Chandrataal" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ChandraTaal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEW-bVBLm0zUGIDL2hleHqMqNbZ8cALNMGmMjgGvm5qOp8GEx5YVFvLUh2tzmX_F5C4uEDGlCwxzi6LPMDZN79RB4ZzrXFSkDml3Zhi5W7MpmhbWTJk9HlL9IW8Qc-DKo1CYBQeEDcIuI/s1600/IMG_8031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kunzum Pass" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEW-bVBLm0zUGIDL2hleHqMqNbZ8cALNMGmMjgGvm5qOp8GEx5YVFvLUh2tzmX_F5C4uEDGlCwxzi6LPMDZN79RB4ZzrXFSkDml3Zhi5W7MpmhbWTJk9HlL9IW8Qc-DKo1CYBQeEDcIuI/s640/IMG_8031.JPG" title="Kunzum Pass" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kunzum Pass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Stay
tuned for the day by day detailed description of our trip to Kinnaur &
Spiti. This is the journey to the roads less travelled… literally!!!</span></div>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh 172114, India32.246137 78.0349160000000676.7241024999999972 36.726322000000067 57.768171499999994 119.34351000000007tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-49595147358940902792016-04-14T15:36:00.000+05:302016-04-14T17:59:15.928+05:30Vengurla – Hidden Treasure of Kokan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Over
the long Holi weekend this March, I went out to discover the last town of
Maharashtra – Vengurla. Some 550 Kms from Mumbai and 80 Kms from North Goa, lies
a sleepy and less explored town of Vengurla. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCQq6wP-eI5Y6dj85Nwy-RA2lfv2mEcNcbeS_imM3KtQxgnlylQbq2bYIgB84XdrVkKbt0g8XSpTiSLGbLlPPQdwxPCyeh_VbXVwE0cubdfTPcaZ2cz8C328WpzaWMUqETjdspP6nHWc/s1600/Arambol+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Arambol Beach, Goa" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCQq6wP-eI5Y6dj85Nwy-RA2lfv2mEcNcbeS_imM3KtQxgnlylQbq2bYIgB84XdrVkKbt0g8XSpTiSLGbLlPPQdwxPCyeh_VbXVwE0cubdfTPcaZ2cz8C328WpzaWMUqETjdspP6nHWc/s640/Arambol+Beach.JPG" title="Arambol Beach, Goa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sea, The Sand, The Sun, The Palm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Blessed
with long stretches of white sand, hills covered with coconut palms, cashew and
mango trees, Vengurla is a small town full of natural beauty, amazing expanse
of beaches and rich cultural heritage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
took Jan Shatabdi on Thursday morning from Dadar and got off at Kudal. From
there we took an auto and reached Vengurla.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Interests:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Sagareshwar
Beach</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> – Though
this stunning beach is located very close to Goa, it is still calm and aloof
from the maddening crowd. This is he beach which is closest to Vengurla town.
Walk on the soft sand and enjoy the amazing sunset here. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAu0QigisBV16Hvovn3zX9SWwQ47px3vyfCDAdH2ywdt-Xs-9oSZuqLP252goQnoI3ZVVXMs0ilnPWjFU3qwYYx4qfud4mGBu_YHVwg_3uBdk6c0daA1zO_H-MwsOQdt2-B77_FZ7RLs/s1600/Sagareshwar+Beach+Entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sagareshwar Beach, Vengurla" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAu0QigisBV16Hvovn3zX9SWwQ47px3vyfCDAdH2ywdt-Xs-9oSZuqLP252goQnoI3ZVVXMs0ilnPWjFU3qwYYx4qfud4mGBu_YHVwg_3uBdk6c0daA1zO_H-MwsOQdt2-B77_FZ7RLs/s640/Sagareshwar+Beach+Entrance.jpg" title="Sagareshwar Beach, Vengurla" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Different Shades at Different time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbfHxZJ7bB9qTQTjfnMS0g-mTr3h4DcKju2EQrVNqOWux8VJgFjdDBROeu5os70mBEPRCBaHhQy0FtjJoCer24DOMu4F3VoEcFkZUAlfgFanWyHd7L84fI3AEkx3dnSfSPkDyX6p_dP4/s1600/Saga+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sagareshwar Beach" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbfHxZJ7bB9qTQTjfnMS0g-mTr3h4DcKju2EQrVNqOWux8VJgFjdDBROeu5os70mBEPRCBaHhQy0FtjJoCer24DOMu4F3VoEcFkZUAlfgFanWyHd7L84fI3AEkx3dnSfSPkDyX6p_dP4/s640/Saga+1.JPG" title="Sagareshwar Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sagareshwar Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Mochemad Beach</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> is one of the most pristine
beach of Vengurla. This serene beach allows you to relax away from the crowd. A
secluded beach with a hill at one end, it is the ideal place if you are looking
for some alone time. You will not find a soul on this beach other than one or
two fisherman busy fishing. The way to the beach is through a small village
with the same name and is tucked away between the route from Vengurla to
Shiroda.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMLPgJ0mtw28aqjlLzF2qvJXP9XMwOdhU_KL4NipsTAt3v2e3RaU8OJerfNizqHdbv3UgsRhHKSK4rvn1EB8q_h7Xmsn8h3anZ8PlwNB5Z98C3Idt7dgB2_0tklBMy20GtfiqQYqIds0/s1600/Mochemad+-+Virgin+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mochemad Beach" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMLPgJ0mtw28aqjlLzF2qvJXP9XMwOdhU_KL4NipsTAt3v2e3RaU8OJerfNizqHdbv3UgsRhHKSK4rvn1EB8q_h7Xmsn8h3anZ8PlwNB5Z98C3Idt7dgB2_0tklBMy20GtfiqQYqIds0/s640/Mochemad+-+Virgin+Beach.JPG" title="Mochemad Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Virgin Mochemad Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6Rp6hyLfDrbZCuUFdkHjJ3vsRxzDM84Yzj02DZDPUtneiYEGlVA8dKPMmQPtwLdQ2-oChSMMP5wDzld18709fdLR6Zht5EL9zgkVZpYaSalw8KcvKNrrm1-dFs3Zl8eoKFoZFbgIACU/s1600/Sunset+At+Mochemad+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mochemad Beach" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6Rp6hyLfDrbZCuUFdkHjJ3vsRxzDM84Yzj02DZDPUtneiYEGlVA8dKPMmQPtwLdQ2-oChSMMP5wDzld18709fdLR6Zht5EL9zgkVZpYaSalw8KcvKNrrm1-dFs3Zl8eoKFoZFbgIACU/s640/Sunset+At+Mochemad+Beach.JPG" title="Mochemad Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful sunset at Mochemad Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Around
10 kms from Vengurla, this beach is a treasure for those who seek peace,
serenity and silent moments while on a beach. It is arguably one of the best
kept secret of Kokan.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Redi Ganpati</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> is a very famous Ganpati of
this district. It is a simple temple which is under renovation. Do visit if you
are a ganpati devotee.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacm6t8hHAxZD_J3t-CkUxo_J5DOk5l_e708DNNpJUyiCE4sZOlrX-4OZWrd9w7v5pwULZHKhoN-rbR5Al8VeLZD2h2piXptvpKF2AMAyoO_n1S8ym49i1w2FUmZpr4kLDe6ROb_kFmrs/s1600/Redi+Temple+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Redi Ganesh Temple" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacm6t8hHAxZD_J3t-CkUxo_J5DOk5l_e708DNNpJUyiCE4sZOlrX-4OZWrd9w7v5pwULZHKhoN-rbR5Al8VeLZD2h2piXptvpKF2AMAyoO_n1S8ym49i1w2FUmZpr4kLDe6ROb_kFmrs/s640/Redi+Temple+Collage.jpg" title="Redi Ganesh Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Redi Ganesh Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Vitoba Temple </span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">– On our way to<b> </b>Redi Temple<b> </b>we came across the famous Vitoba Temple. Do stop by and take the
blessing of the temple.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFlPIDIAOCUeH0JkPjLmFvoGGMukiiGUkiN-9BrsA7Zt1Qv_RQZHAp9ZT7H2ZN12o72bmkXCVS_W7kuQN7Muw_ijKSUBcexwo8OhSHKjlOHL7rGM0YRC7Ff1nukUgRYnbLZt6YZm9Y3m8/s1600/Vitoba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Entrance of Vitoba Temple" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFlPIDIAOCUeH0JkPjLmFvoGGMukiiGUkiN-9BrsA7Zt1Qv_RQZHAp9ZT7H2ZN12o72bmkXCVS_W7kuQN7Muw_ijKSUBcexwo8OhSHKjlOHL7rGM0YRC7Ff1nukUgRYnbLZt6YZm9Y3m8/s640/Vitoba.jpg" title="Entrance of Vitoba Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance of Vitoba Temple </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Shiroda Beach</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> - A little away from Redi
Ganapti Temple towards Vengurla town is Shiroda Beach. This is the only beach I
saw in Vengurla which had small shops at the entrance of the beach selling
snacks, cold drinks, tea and other refreshments. I saw few foreigners on the
beach who had come on two wheelers from the neighbouring state Goa.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTgRWz2RwLFhL0fr_8jQcbb6Lg6GMU__XzEcdUxuF5GslcvtJJbGDG4XoY4eZdEd1udXIe65ZoMI7bp7I7BotLHUkUvLiHPlG_UfdlvWsRuWGYsa3ucrdQ3EiZCX7ArFDdpMsFgTW5VE/s1600/Approach+to+Shiroda+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shiroda Beach" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTgRWz2RwLFhL0fr_8jQcbb6Lg6GMU__XzEcdUxuF5GslcvtJJbGDG4XoY4eZdEd1udXIe65ZoMI7bp7I7BotLHUkUvLiHPlG_UfdlvWsRuWGYsa3ucrdQ3EiZCX7ArFDdpMsFgTW5VE/s640/Approach+to+Shiroda+Beach.JPG" title="Shiroda Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approach to Shiroda Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMiBu-CT5kUnD9CRRwewEzUeJ2LONyVfjEpzDJmGTU-iqmaaam9gQ4g21XNAB-Us-iRCO2T1-mT_DUJy2for5lDYYl5scpQ28COhayRPqH9BSBOC4KmKvSXjFxJXDmeA4dMkyaVcLxtU/s1600/Camel+Ride+at+Shiroda+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMiBu-CT5kUnD9CRRwewEzUeJ2LONyVfjEpzDJmGTU-iqmaaam9gQ4g21XNAB-Us-iRCO2T1-mT_DUJy2for5lDYYl5scpQ28COhayRPqH9BSBOC4KmKvSXjFxJXDmeA4dMkyaVcLxtU/s640/Camel+Ride+at+Shiroda+Beach.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9HXJfpvcc5Q3ZCrXNugFJrZLliSo9RXYW13szNna9PpkqmhqalIC2iWZP-HbSvSKUt5iBySo8L6bjtNifJ33M4fUrJOcpJj583dZ982d-3a3RUkcAB0g8OsIEoEinLvdbyy1zM3Qo3A/s1600/Camels.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shiroda Beach" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9HXJfpvcc5Q3ZCrXNugFJrZLliSo9RXYW13szNna9PpkqmhqalIC2iWZP-HbSvSKUt5iBySo8L6bjtNifJ33M4fUrJOcpJj583dZ982d-3a3RUkcAB0g8OsIEoEinLvdbyy1zM3Qo3A/s640/Camels.JPG" title="Shiroda Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoy a Camel Ride at Shiroda Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The
beach also has water sport facilities like water scooter and banana ride. I
guess this is the most commercial beach in Vengurla. Though a little commercial
as compared to the other beaches of the town, this beach is neat and clean and
has its own charm. I could spot two camels also on the beach ready to take you
on their back for a ride.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Vengurla Jetty</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> – This is the place which was a very important
place for the town. Though the jetty has lost its charm, you should still visit
this place and see loads of small boats docked and in the middle of the sea. Climb
up to PWD owned Sagar House and see the view of the jetty and the sea. Worth a
visit for the spellbinding view.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIUFHECnA5lth-OinrZPd-14uhyFKZEvZo4LFO0l2bdf9B8wgq695y6-uE4R-ZdUG26dgB7MoMcFP-wLch7ongiuLbE8hgGIwKyL86JzbhUKCpX_8rqQqZ_lBIqJsHgtMiBiTXH-TIeE/s1600/Vengurla+Jetty.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vengurla Jetty" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIUFHECnA5lth-OinrZPd-14uhyFKZEvZo4LFO0l2bdf9B8wgq695y6-uE4R-ZdUG26dgB7MoMcFP-wLch7ongiuLbE8hgGIwKyL86JzbhUKCpX_8rqQqZ_lBIqJsHgtMiBiTXH-TIeE/s640/Vengurla+Jetty.JPG" title="Vengurla Jetty" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vengurla Jetty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLMh1PoH-shY0sYIXzcj40c_xIDtW9Nh8XE5uIFD7qRUf0vLuN1meRofV7oX09BXUwr6FmWG0sJc9dAnIYHD_sdVryGomBHHlQJXZRS48Vk9u6Xg7bjSGlvgzt1AfOxhYuWCVrYs0-7A/s1600/Boats+at+Jetty.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Boats at Vengurla Jetty" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLMh1PoH-shY0sYIXzcj40c_xIDtW9Nh8XE5uIFD7qRUf0vLuN1meRofV7oX09BXUwr6FmWG0sJc9dAnIYHD_sdVryGomBHHlQJXZRS48Vk9u6Xg7bjSGlvgzt1AfOxhYuWCVrYs0-7A/s640/Boats+at+Jetty.JPG" title="Boats at Vengurla Jetty" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boats at Jetty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Vengurla
Lighthouse</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> – Make
a visit to this lighthouse to see the panoramic view of the sea. There are two
ways to reach this lighthouse – you can either trek up from Vengurla Jetty just
next to Sagar House or you can take your vehicle till the lighthouse through a
winding path on a hill. The lighthouse offers a spectacular view of the sea
meeting the horizon, boats and the jetty and vengurla coastline on the left.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkwJHbUe64490r0DQp_gHnsKJWfSultbYUqxkowJEnpCY8791keTRtejPx_tq0JTC_b1qwlRZlKbL-KKnazcyHxKid0s8ck4B_FCSacy7DZWnp4vgS_giBlDOYJyf2VqN-fpkCWKup38/s1600/Lighthouse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vengurla Light House" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkwJHbUe64490r0DQp_gHnsKJWfSultbYUqxkowJEnpCY8791keTRtejPx_tq0JTC_b1qwlRZlKbL-KKnazcyHxKid0s8ck4B_FCSacy7DZWnp4vgS_giBlDOYJyf2VqN-fpkCWKup38/s640/Lighthouse.JPG" title="Vengurla Light House" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vengurla Light House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Arambol Beach</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> – While on our trip to
Vengurla we drove to Arambol Beach and had some Goan fun. The feel of Arambol
Beach resembles that of a typical Goan with colourful shops on either side of
the road leading to the beach, shacks on the beach, booze shops, tattoos and
piercing shops, foreigners wearing close to nothing, everyone riding a two
wheeler... All this was screaming and telling me that we have crossed borders
and we are now in Go Go GOA…</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvR94YZ1V0uSXcIFymazdldiNaoStoETVIK8_KlUAP_wE-QkIdXVVHb7AolD3KjFTvaH6jRMPZAdGMqf_x7w-wFKZzgs0txeidmwJd170XaWfmexCKYpOkc786kmtDwySulEtE6_XC-E/s1600/Aarambol+-+Rocks+on+the+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Arambol Beach, Goa" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvR94YZ1V0uSXcIFymazdldiNaoStoETVIK8_KlUAP_wE-QkIdXVVHb7AolD3KjFTvaH6jRMPZAdGMqf_x7w-wFKZzgs0txeidmwJd170XaWfmexCKYpOkc786kmtDwySulEtE6_XC-E/s640/Aarambol+-+Rocks+on+the+Beach.JPG" title="Arambol Beach, Goa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arambol Beach, Goa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju2D5p_KawcaFirKIcXNlNqc_Pam7ffuutIVHcoYCytbhSMUd3Rr_OKceSBw05yjtXIbsfxVp0EO5o6Zm2ziEm6ywnWFo94NLejpB0_v1lww4jGnnLyriXzO7RyrCro9Jny0qXc38ahvM/s1600/Goa+Shopping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Arambol, Goa" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju2D5p_KawcaFirKIcXNlNqc_Pam7ffuutIVHcoYCytbhSMUd3Rr_OKceSBw05yjtXIbsfxVp0EO5o6Zm2ziEm6ywnWFo94NLejpB0_v1lww4jGnnLyriXzO7RyrCro9Jny0qXc38ahvM/s640/Goa+Shopping.jpg" title="Arambol, Goa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arambol, Goa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">We
walked on the sandy beach and saw few foreigners doing yoga and meditation. We
walked towards the rocks and were surprised to see many small sea facing
restaurants and shops amidst the rocks. While climbing the rocks we could hear
the sea splashing on the rocks. After walking for fifteen mins we came to that
part of the beach which was hardly visited by people. Just across the sea there
is a small sweet water lake where you swim in peace.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5JJDvLsUlObdyV-HbWWlu_We6P315VCJ44VtwrTtN0AZ04nHZSwTZGsXlPqDG0ejWzUwaRO0roQ8pKk39fcEXV7pkyK0HqBhE1vFXpEu9_ffmr5N_CkTtSJ_G-eeCGQZV6uJUq-TQ8M/s1600/Sweet+Water+Lake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sweet Water Lake near Arambol Beach" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5JJDvLsUlObdyV-HbWWlu_We6P315VCJ44VtwrTtN0AZ04nHZSwTZGsXlPqDG0ejWzUwaRO0roQ8pKk39fcEXV7pkyK0HqBhE1vFXpEu9_ffmr5N_CkTtSJ_G-eeCGQZV6uJUq-TQ8M/s640/Sweet+Water+Lake.JPG" title="Sweet Water Lake near Arambol Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Water Lake near Arambol Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JHTygbLj0rAlVETjGIULC2fgGn37kqHyJbvA5NPsfv3eLTKeWSkd1QjlJnJDP6d8wtRRwKJ5UsaxpgO8VfdtqXgpp1f4NUS_2dC_dNyOBUgrxEtxJiQzkothSQhbmYM_QOlzJ7DIHXI/s1600/Paintings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Paintings on walls" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JHTygbLj0rAlVETjGIULC2fgGn37kqHyJbvA5NPsfv3eLTKeWSkd1QjlJnJDP6d8wtRRwKJ5UsaxpgO8VfdtqXgpp1f4NUS_2dC_dNyOBUgrxEtxJiQzkothSQhbmYM_QOlzJ7DIHXI/s640/Paintings.jpg" title="Paintings on walls" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paintings on walls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Once
back on the lively side of the beach, we had our breakfast before biding bye to
Goa and heading back to our calm and quiet Vengurla.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Keri Beach</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> – While on our way to Vengurla from Arambol
Beach we saw a road direction for Keri Beach. Keri beach is the first beach of
Goa while entering from Mumbai. So we thought why miss it? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Keri
beach is a mix of Vengurla and Goa beach. It has shacks but to a limit, it has
visitors but to a limit. By the looks of it, it is not a very popular beach and
has not become commercial till now. It’s a beautiful beach with small shacks
wherein you can sip on a beer, relax on a beach bed, go for swim in the sea,
have some snacks..<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgypTRbri6L7Qs6PJvU9zzQ3nwMhvfkSflMo_0ViMp6LxS9lzNkPxU0Md8qGTUkNVOl9slrNA20XKtVc_3w7psHuAw-xCQDyLOTwOhy0aIomy5qjopY-TV6OkAthJ6iVI6MZSzvSaJ6YUo/s1600/Keri+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Keri Beach, Goa" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgypTRbri6L7Qs6PJvU9zzQ3nwMhvfkSflMo_0ViMp6LxS9lzNkPxU0Md8qGTUkNVOl9slrNA20XKtVc_3w7psHuAw-xCQDyLOTwOhy0aIomy5qjopY-TV6OkAthJ6iVI6MZSzvSaJ6YUo/s640/Keri+Beach.JPG" title="Keri Beach, Goa" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keri Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aO4KF_yNAYFG-uu2y2qhGQbyYK7IPCO2u5I3nUd7Q1V1gL8crLYGQJNUOHqbHcsE5qTb2uOeyvrTE8JjsV7thNNdgW1UiepmGImwKaCTA9SwEUFDnto0JxsKj7OVz-BruVSfhljxukQ/s1600/Shacks+on+Keri+Beach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shacks on Keri Beach" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aO4KF_yNAYFG-uu2y2qhGQbyYK7IPCO2u5I3nUd7Q1V1gL8crLYGQJNUOHqbHcsE5qTb2uOeyvrTE8JjsV7thNNdgW1UiepmGImwKaCTA9SwEUFDnto0JxsKj7OVz-BruVSfhljxukQ/s640/Shacks+on+Keri+Beach.JPG" title="Shacks on Keri Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shacks on Keri Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Just
at the entrance of the beach is a temple dedicated to an old man known as Ajooba temple.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Other Beaches</span></b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"> – Vengurla is blessed with
numerous beaches. If you have time you can visit Redi Beach, Velagar Beach,
Sagartirtha Beach, Wayangani Beach.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Shopping:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Vengurla
is famous for cashews and you can also buy mangoes if the season is right. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">If
you are looking for a beach vacation, away from the crowd head to Vengurla. You
will be amazed by the serene beaches, white sand, calmness of<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>
the small town and the simplicity of the people. Head to one of the beach to
spend the perfect evening with your family or your friends watching the sun set
in the indigo water. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">In
Vengurla, you can choose to relax and do nothing or enjoy a swim in the sea,
explore local forts and temples, savour authentic coastal food, bird watching,
trekking ……. and many more! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Vengurla, Maharashtra 416516, India15.8514136 73.6389037999999815.790312100000001 73.558222799999982 15.9125151 73.719584799999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-32036745076297145542016-03-22T20:51:00.000+05:302016-03-22T20:51:01.896+05:30Elephanta Caves - A Ferry Ride from Mumbai<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
last time I visited Elephanta Caves was in the year 2005. We recently went to
Ajanta & Ellora Caves near Aurangabad and thought of exploring Elephanta
Caves especially since the caves were so near. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
decided to go on a Saturday and everything just fell in place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Location:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The Elephanta Caves are located on an island,
about 11 Kms from Gateway of India (Apollo Bunder).</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Getting There: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
most accessible way to reach Elephanta Caves is to take a 45 minutes ferry ride
from Gateway of India. Normally every half an hour a ferry leaves from Gateway
of India to Elephanta Caves. You can buy chips, wafers, mineral water and cold
drinks from the ferry at an extra cost.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtjCP7NyiotO5JDXMoGsLanvTGsXCn7XA6AsHYwaTbTObPD8XRktM4sLzXQqarWtWW1PIzYB0Ym2S_LbQUl14T0VxkmVSrQutlLjpGm2dwz3mhMJNucezLz7N1972W_zZXSIIaB8OHr0/s1600/Gateway+of+India.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Gateway of India" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtjCP7NyiotO5JDXMoGsLanvTGsXCn7XA6AsHYwaTbTObPD8XRktM4sLzXQqarWtWW1PIzYB0Ym2S_LbQUl14T0VxkmVSrQutlLjpGm2dwz3mhMJNucezLz7N1972W_zZXSIIaB8OHr0/s640/Gateway+of+India.JPG" title="Gateway of India" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gateway of India</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;">A
return ticket cost Rs. 180 per person, an extra Rs 10 per person if you want to
sit on the upper deck of the ferry. Once you reach the Elephanta Jetty it is
half an hour ride to reach the caves. You can take a toy train for Rs 10 per
person for the return journey from the jetty to the feet of the caves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
first boat starts from the Gateway at 9:00 am and the last one back from the
Island is at 5:00 pm. The caves are closed on Monday. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Boat Ride: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
boat ride in itself is a part of the Elephanta Caves experience. As we moved
away from the harbor we were surrounded by flocks of sea gulls hoping for a few
crumbs of food. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRIDyS2IDIlt_UK0XqdpUWeElSQXwsh-yqeSAuSMITmXEJS1kmrc0kMpUOGx6cSZv0bJiRLJ2QOQBsudv2whsPl2f5W-eNVdWgaKto91qdTy3uhp8miSPRZR7CuUEo_ynSRWdrqdEaQSY/s1600/Sea+Gulls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sea Gulls following the ferry" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRIDyS2IDIlt_UK0XqdpUWeElSQXwsh-yqeSAuSMITmXEJS1kmrc0kMpUOGx6cSZv0bJiRLJ2QOQBsudv2whsPl2f5W-eNVdWgaKto91qdTy3uhp8miSPRZR7CuUEo_ynSRWdrqdEaQSY/s640/Sea+Gulls.JPG" title="Sea Gulls following the ferry" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Gulls following the ferry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;">One could see the magnificent Gateway of India and the iconic The
Taj fading and enjoy the skyline of the city. You could see numerous ships and
boats of different shapes and size.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The Island: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
name “Elephanta” came originated with the Portuguese, after they found a
massive elephant structure on the island in the 18<sup>th</sup> Century A.D. This
is now displayed at the Jijamata Gardens in Mumbai. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Once
we reached the island, there was a mad rush to take the toy train. Since it was
hot, we were busy buying mineral water and raw mangoes to taste. There are
small tuck shops selling raw mangoes, berries, star fruits, tamarind sprinkled with
chillies and salt. By the time we started to move, the toy train had already
left. We simply walked alongside the toy train route and reached the steps
leading to the caves. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAqJw27FhzudHDlE0bm8sJquaq03HbyfLuYTKiN_BXHU5qYhM_iFwZ56M1yfM_6Ygo6kGoK7UeqoKLDTyRlqZPwAANv_7o2KItk40YdDlsOPsuUIQKX-hN6On_9a8NVipdcJpjIDAZ_7c/s1600/Toy+Train.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Toy Train on the Island" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAqJw27FhzudHDlE0bm8sJquaq03HbyfLuYTKiN_BXHU5qYhM_iFwZ56M1yfM_6Ygo6kGoK7UeqoKLDTyRlqZPwAANv_7o2KItk40YdDlsOPsuUIQKX-hN6On_9a8NVipdcJpjIDAZ_7c/s640/Toy+Train.JPG" title="Toy Train on the Island" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toy Train on the Island</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;">The
steps leading to the caves are lined on both side by shops selling jewellery, T
shirts, artifacts, trinkets, wrap around skirts etc. The shops were very well
organized and no shop keeper was after me to buy something from their shop. Due
to this it was quite fun to climb up the steps at your own pace looking at the
interesting things on display for sale.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEIwnWC-S9SGCwSKzuxfAb82xc3VLPhXuCmUjzneLZFJkpZRoCc_9xzSC5vDK2VlSUWCRRMBNB2UtHohd2rlSfxC0Ux_eX_W8L13CV37BsAjTDi3-mjY4a3TFi1s6NVCTZG0hl9yayP4/s1600/Shops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Display at the shops" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEIwnWC-S9SGCwSKzuxfAb82xc3VLPhXuCmUjzneLZFJkpZRoCc_9xzSC5vDK2VlSUWCRRMBNB2UtHohd2rlSfxC0Ux_eX_W8L13CV37BsAjTDi3-mjY4a3TFi1s6NVCTZG0hl9yayP4/s640/Shops.jpg" title="Display at the shops" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Display at the shops</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;">Once
I reached the caves, I realized that the caves were very neat and clean. You
need to take a ticket to go inside the caves which is Rs. 10 for Indian and Rs
250 for foreigners.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The Main Cave:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">There
are seven caves here, but the most fascinated and the only cave worth seeing is
Cave No. one. The entire cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it depicts Shiva
in various postures. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">A
little off centre is a temple with a lingam inside. The temple has entrances on
four sides and there are eight guards at the corner of the temple. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZB1JK95JJCzP4g2AI47vjnFCsNR2Mp9PYnDr0tYPM8wBxUtbUj0EFOC4i2_fA5GkzoMBeEl-gPAdaZmqtEXrD-ry54Ch5PJUf6tHFK1xtQ3yD4HJjGwSua3InjAQOCaFez9tq5ZCF4Lg/s1600/Cave+1+-+Shiva+Temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lingam In Cave 1 of Elephanta Cave" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZB1JK95JJCzP4g2AI47vjnFCsNR2Mp9PYnDr0tYPM8wBxUtbUj0EFOC4i2_fA5GkzoMBeEl-gPAdaZmqtEXrD-ry54Ch5PJUf6tHFK1xtQ3yD4HJjGwSua3InjAQOCaFez9tq5ZCF4Lg/s640/Cave+1+-+Shiva+Temple.JPG" title="Lingam In Cave 1 of Elephanta Cave" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lingam In Cave 1 of Elephanta Cave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;">Let
me take you along with me and show you some of the sculptures.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">The
main and most interesting sculpture of this cave is - The Trimurti. It is named
so as it has three heads, and is thus considered to be the Trinity – Brahma,
Vishnu and Shiva. A closer look at this sculpture will tell you that this is
actually the three faces of Lord Shiva himself. The central face, which is the
calm and the serene face, is the creative side of Shiva, the Creator. The right
face of the Lord (left for us) is the Destroyer, represented with a snake in
the hand and the left face is the Preserver, with a lotus in hand. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfNIw6rzjCnZu7n2Iz1yxr5uQKkPHleCniBD7wdQD2jETsa1bDvvJix3kH_Jfvm2mvgk1RoJm5QNkEY7rj9FnkDyM9UpSu2F2SerskvpQi3y-7A8SnHDoBWkZK77m9ddobsErcSFIU00/s1600/Trimurti.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Trimurti" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfNIw6rzjCnZu7n2Iz1yxr5uQKkPHleCniBD7wdQD2jETsa1bDvvJix3kH_Jfvm2mvgk1RoJm5QNkEY7rj9FnkDyM9UpSu2F2SerskvpQi3y-7A8SnHDoBWkZK77m9ddobsErcSFIU00/s640/Trimurti.JPG" title="Trimurti" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trimurti</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;">Just
next to the Trimurti is beautiful sculpture depicting Lord Shiva as Ardhanareeshwara
– half man, half woman.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUc5ebcQO0IbouRdKF7_5d-jFYH-mSKZ4xLENuFgyCg1-NlLZzFd-ha65Hy-YFUDDEn2XerjGRqDCcOPRQGi5L5orTDN0Fu60YOSNvdEfwuQJGYz6ZDeVmLGs2bpdFNSG4xH95czMtlo8/s1600/Half+Man+Half+woman.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ardhanareeshwara - Half man, half woman" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUc5ebcQO0IbouRdKF7_5d-jFYH-mSKZ4xLENuFgyCg1-NlLZzFd-ha65Hy-YFUDDEn2XerjGRqDCcOPRQGi5L5orTDN0Fu60YOSNvdEfwuQJGYz6ZDeVmLGs2bpdFNSG4xH95czMtlo8/s640/Half+Man+Half+woman.JPG" title="Ardhanareeshwara - Half man, half woman" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ardhanareeshwara - Half man, half woman</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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Shiva in the Yoga pose:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbJEOAoneaCOj_njdDMJlfCcQ9q2oUUTZDVeqMjPGSf5NhjK_al0y1Pq4X5_160aHmpxHngnJ1GuDvJlYLaO9DkGRj1iqM3LkWZjPZr6m7uBxg_ga05SCwuOY8Ir9N3Jx3xCkaH95dCY/s1600/Yoga+Pose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lord Shiva in yoga pose" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbJEOAoneaCOj_njdDMJlfCcQ9q2oUUTZDVeqMjPGSf5NhjK_al0y1Pq4X5_160aHmpxHngnJ1GuDvJlYLaO9DkGRj1iqM3LkWZjPZr6m7uBxg_ga05SCwuOY8Ir9N3Jx3xCkaH95dCY/s640/Yoga+Pose.JPG" title="Lord Shiva in yoga pose" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord Shiva in yoga pose</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The next carving depicts Ravana lifting Mount Kailash. <span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">Unfortunately,
the lower portion of the figure is completely spoilt and we can hardly see
Ravana.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymeD8tNTsgenjQsGHpweB0Fyd9HEqKuzJPVfLo5pVLNLknl3Pqwb8HJgxueg603mcWykFDSH6r3asGgwul2Zj3Y2PC2lX19bzKeSTg_ssoS1g9Mi19Inna5UVaXa26PQBg8qhjpiqpdw/s1600/Ravana+Lifting+Kailash.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ravana lifting Kailash" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymeD8tNTsgenjQsGHpweB0Fyd9HEqKuzJPVfLo5pVLNLknl3Pqwb8HJgxueg603mcWykFDSH6r3asGgwul2Zj3Y2PC2lX19bzKeSTg_ssoS1g9Mi19Inna5UVaXa26PQBg8qhjpiqpdw/s640/Ravana+Lifting+Kailash.JPG" title="Ravana lifting Kailash" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ravana lifting Kailash</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">This
is the carving which shows the marriage of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Again, this
is such a detailed carving but has been ruined. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEG6UlI0M-LPjhZh_5qMafkUwFYOb8IARZptSDuj6SjdljY5tqawP1OEBK-T0hB9mCadY3Z0d4d7kU_dvhjVQZnLfQBFJ7jwn_Mh6k2VZ8HuMBswNZ5ch7r__HnojIyZL613pKAIFrhzs/s1600/Shiva+%2526+Parvati+Marriage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lord Shiva & Parvati marriage" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEG6UlI0M-LPjhZh_5qMafkUwFYOb8IARZptSDuj6SjdljY5tqawP1OEBK-T0hB9mCadY3Z0d4d7kU_dvhjVQZnLfQBFJ7jwn_Mh6k2VZ8HuMBswNZ5ch7r__HnojIyZL613pKAIFrhzs/s640/Shiva+%2526+Parvati+Marriage.JPG" title="Lord Shiva & Parvati marriage" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord Shiva & Parvati marriage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">He
next carving shows the slaughter of demon Andhakasura.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZB1fyua1kATQ0s-dL69QB5dAroUgqsRGgI1w8OXg1TRqqad0_2s4SzYfskCtK0wbw_vbRB-GI4J4viaK0kTmp-yNZ3Kmi7-WSBEnvfBZB_u034BAzokl9Q8qquUC-a7h7IULfg8-3SE/s1600/Demon+Andhakusara.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZB1fyua1kATQ0s-dL69QB5dAroUgqsRGgI1w8OXg1TRqqad0_2s4SzYfskCtK0wbw_vbRB-GI4J4viaK0kTmp-yNZ3Kmi7-WSBEnvfBZB_u034BAzokl9Q8qquUC-a7h7IULfg8-3SE/s640/Demon+Andhakusara.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slaughter of Demon Andhakasura</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">The
final carving in here is the very famous Nataraja. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMicuZ2miaz7lvRVdbS4nMsrGfJ3wSOHNooOpObsyJ_5xA4uhPguYxCDqpo7_86thUXiUMVcrwWnhMyEg3yWTqCC1sY-cyXrxXu6cK5Vmr8a4Ceqnj59zvj_-BEqUduPqoM1Yr2N2nM2w/s1600/Natraja.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nataraja Posture" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMicuZ2miaz7lvRVdbS4nMsrGfJ3wSOHNooOpObsyJ_5xA4uhPguYxCDqpo7_86thUXiUMVcrwWnhMyEg3yWTqCC1sY-cyXrxXu6cK5Vmr8a4Ceqnj59zvj_-BEqUduPqoM1Yr2N2nM2w/s640/Natraja.JPG" title="Nataraja Posture" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nataraja Posture</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">Gangadhara Shiva:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF2jkUj0d6lsK-tH_6YxBiUMi0w-8XSRbFCAqarMHq8z4prxidtrW_tx6VoEdztrnJZog4bqI-VTiCNb0NAELlqY2B_lL3hn49XKkLqbd3HGbkO5IC7Gbh30raUFM0cy50gvhrmJXhK9c/s1600/Gangadhara+Shiva.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Gangadhara Shiva" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF2jkUj0d6lsK-tH_6YxBiUMi0w-8XSRbFCAqarMHq8z4prxidtrW_tx6VoEdztrnJZog4bqI-VTiCNb0NAELlqY2B_lL3hn49XKkLqbd3HGbkO5IC7Gbh30raUFM0cy50gvhrmJXhK9c/s640/Gangadhara+Shiva.JPG" title="Gangadhara Shiva" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gangadhara Shiva</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">On
the eastern wing of this cave, we saw another lingam and a sculpture of Lord
Shiva, Ganesh and Kartikeya.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9TaY5acG8oSlsuyzHx9kHanndvjR-awOES-XhZ2sRJdOv-_Wy27ML4GnU59imWE0T33a8FtNY2tpgbtxkBpGNWiJkP2kO-NPLAPVmmD_h-6lYnFGdnpo_C3dfI6Y37stc5tNgKF7rIk/s1600/Ganesh+%2526+Kartikeya.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9TaY5acG8oSlsuyzHx9kHanndvjR-awOES-XhZ2sRJdOv-_Wy27ML4GnU59imWE0T33a8FtNY2tpgbtxkBpGNWiJkP2kO-NPLAPVmmD_h-6lYnFGdnpo_C3dfI6Y37stc5tNgKF7rIk/s640/Ganesh+%2526+Kartikeya.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganesha & Kartikeya with Lord Shiva</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">We
wanted around the rest of the caves for a while, but there was nothing
interesting. We decided to head back. On the way back, we took the toy train to
go back to the ferry. The ride back was quiet and we again saw the sea gulls.
We saw the skyline of Mumbai surfacing in front of our eyes and gradually the
iconic Taj.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvi-bvGcrVukT9o485THErOg3mep7Ps3Ox4Z8MDqnpY86BdJEPwF3J76i4-Q3bJ1uGK69EwRsDrk_jmWy-10ebPGyacp7wgXZwlbuCPFUTx6AF6441xSmVyhO8O9vBqt9e385E9mvifE/s1600/Taj+%2526+Gateway+of+India.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvi-bvGcrVukT9o485THErOg3mep7Ps3Ox4Z8MDqnpY86BdJEPwF3J76i4-Q3bJ1uGK69EwRsDrk_jmWy-10ebPGyacp7wgXZwlbuCPFUTx6AF6441xSmVyhO8O9vBqt9e385E9mvifE/s640/Taj+%2526+Gateway+of+India.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gateway of India & Taj</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-align: left;">With
this we ended our visit to Elephanta Caves.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Points to remember:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">You can
take a ferry from The Gateway of India for Elephanta Caves. It is a 45mins
ride. The ferry ride is closed during monsoons. </span><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Ferry
Timing: </span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Gateway to Elephanta : 9 am to 2 pm</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif;">Elephanta to
Gateway : 12 noon to 5:30 pm</span></li>
</ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The
cost of the ferry return ticket is Rs. 180 per person.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Elephanta
Caves are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. and are closed on Monday.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Entry
Fee is Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 250 for foreigners. Free Entry below 15 years
of age.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Beware
of monkeys.</span></li>
</ul>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Elephanta Caves, Gharapuri, Maharashtra 400094, India18.9633474 72.93148640000004-6.5586871 31.62289240000004 44.4853819 114.24008040000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-50931764373194910532016-02-13T14:37:00.000+05:302016-02-13T14:37:57.069+05:30Aurangabad - In & Around<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"><i>This is a continuation to my visit to Aurangabad. I saw Ajanata & Ellora Caves on Day 1 & 2.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Third day, we started our day with the local breakfast of missal pav. Everyone wanted to get their hands on authentic Maharastrian missal. There were three stage of spiciness – no spice, medium spice and most spicy missal. Post the breakfast, we headed to </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Panchakki (watermill)</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">. Water flows through pipes from a distance of 11 kms. This generates energy and in turn automatically rotates the large grinding stone, thus working as a flour mill. This flour was used to provide food for 180-200 poor people every day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">I could spot a dargah, mosque and a small museum inside the Panchakki. Below one of the water pools, an accommodation had been made for travelers (which is today non functional) to rest in the cool environment.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJc9LUXiyvAI_aKEtDwNH4ltiTGsdM2BYxWVG5Nl894kw6tPJb12y4V1HKitHkiC82CwTQri1mIGao1G3X5lzCzWW5evYdT4JNcJbalaJUAMLmUMjATZnyd3AGOgpWl6bP9YLOLJXu9U/s1600/Panchakki+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Panchakki (Watermill), Aurangabad" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJc9LUXiyvAI_aKEtDwNH4ltiTGsdM2BYxWVG5Nl894kw6tPJb12y4V1HKitHkiC82CwTQri1mIGao1G3X5lzCzWW5evYdT4JNcJbalaJUAMLmUMjATZnyd3AGOgpWl6bP9YLOLJXu9U/s640/Panchakki+Collage.jpg" title="Panchakki (Watermill), Aurangabad" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panchakki (Watermill), Aurangabad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Next on today’s agenda was </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Bibi Ka Maqbara</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">, a replica of Taj Mahal, Agra. Shahjahan build Taj Mahal for his love – his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This monument now symbolizes love to anyone. His son, Aurangzeb disliked his father’s love for luxury and opted for simple lifestyle. Aurangzeb son made a simple replica of his grandfather’s build monument Taj Mahal, in memory of his mother.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ15plnohTjK_CmuZ5QhuocIxzUl0smrxSDB4NjL2XhvYVTwn9l2AYdg42xM5gyIT36iPE0wsNT-7KlFmzrEC1WQN-YczlDd0evtiBojPv3acJcIjuLvFnCAbvdXWrDtnKxcPsEZOtd0M/s1600/Bibi+Ka+Maqbara.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bibi Ka Maqbara" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ15plnohTjK_CmuZ5QhuocIxzUl0smrxSDB4NjL2XhvYVTwn9l2AYdg42xM5gyIT36iPE0wsNT-7KlFmzrEC1WQN-YczlDd0evtiBojPv3acJcIjuLvFnCAbvdXWrDtnKxcPsEZOtd0M/s640/Bibi+Ka+Maqbara.JPG" title="Bibi Ka Maqbara" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bibi Ka Maqbara</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLz08YWDOmCVaE-nyBew7POXSeSNHSIUTL9R7dgkZAN6c0xQzvnrhyphenhyphenGdQgGvX9UKOoK8Ig9bO77UW1ezghFXuW65NXscHQRTE1FbtxH8us06vmlJrw0HOvnGDOlX_ov61O3GCR96mxqU/s1600/Bibi+Ka+Maqbara+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bibi Ka Maqbara" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLz08YWDOmCVaE-nyBew7POXSeSNHSIUTL9R7dgkZAN6c0xQzvnrhyphenhyphenGdQgGvX9UKOoK8Ig9bO77UW1ezghFXuW65NXscHQRTE1FbtxH8us06vmlJrw0HOvnGDOlX_ov61O3GCR96mxqU/s640/Bibi+Ka+Maqbara+Collage.jpg" title="Bibi Ka Maqbara" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bibi Ka Maqbara - Taj Mahal look alike</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Today, Bibi ka Maqbara is a simple replica of Taj Mahal and is known as the Taj of the Deccan. One can enjoy Bibi ka Maqbara only if it is not compared with the Taj Mahal. If compared, then you will find that it is a very poor replica of the former. The difference lies in details, richness and lavishness. One of the reasons being Bibi Ka Maqbara was constructed at a meager amount of Rs 7 lacs (of 17</span><sup style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; line-height: 16.1px;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"> century) whereas Taj Mahal was constructed at Rs 320 Lakhs approx.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Then we headed for an hour drive to a nearby place around 50 kms away from Aurangabad called – <b>Paithan</b>. Piathan is known for the famous Paithani Sarees and we again stopped over at a weaving centre to see the machine weaving of Himroo weaves. Here the weaving center was fully operational and we were mesmerized by the detailing which goes into making a simple bed-sheet.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ77NXB6gFgKEAEakjHoqv7FaGmTHAtUOq90r4az2dvL_xCSGlIzcSXBWsmsx_rOIpsex8PPR3kTVEQosK_9stWOytp7ejP4azd2mnjW9yIhaK_WRm2695tHUGyvvWTGNWusWhbK0-6cM/s1600/Paithani+Saree+Weaving.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Paithani Weaves" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ77NXB6gFgKEAEakjHoqv7FaGmTHAtUOq90r4az2dvL_xCSGlIzcSXBWsmsx_rOIpsex8PPR3kTVEQosK_9stWOytp7ejP4azd2mnjW9yIhaK_WRm2695tHUGyvvWTGNWusWhbK0-6cM/s640/Paithani+Saree+Weaving.JPG" title="Paithani Weaves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paithani Weaves</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMV6TzhrOBtR56jb1-oovJoxkXhu-P1WsA0VyNETDs8ctyEnz9_8apJYDxdIIrc6tFIE9CPJhPmGFHoZrlS3B2C-iE6T0lSuKVIazT9FvMgTYDa9ATDZoVsMZDvXe5UGa4g1-00q4ISM/s1600/Colourful+Threads.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Paithani - Colourful Threads" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMV6TzhrOBtR56jb1-oovJoxkXhu-P1WsA0VyNETDs8ctyEnz9_8apJYDxdIIrc6tFIE9CPJhPmGFHoZrlS3B2C-iE6T0lSuKVIazT9FvMgTYDa9ATDZoVsMZDvXe5UGa4g1-00q4ISM/s640/Colourful+Threads.JPG" title="Paithani - Colourful Threads" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paithani - Colourful Threads</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Then we went to the </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Jayakwadi Dam</b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"> which is on the river Godavari. It has a large reservoir (</span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Nathsagar</b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">) and we were able to spot a number of birds.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEE-5CxkKBQVGAcOGIaHKKo0ebENmtUjUljlV3pXfzzAhrcaHO5OB4F5G4IJEwqf6JiOOhnjEH88pbHf4WssJmMQYjJzAjgpA4MVTX_asMvZ5wcIbll-yUWHtUkGlYCDCt1hGkUhnGKS8/s1600/Dam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Jayakwadi Dam, Paithan" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEE-5CxkKBQVGAcOGIaHKKo0ebENmtUjUljlV3pXfzzAhrcaHO5OB4F5G4IJEwqf6JiOOhnjEH88pbHf4WssJmMQYjJzAjgpA4MVTX_asMvZ5wcIbll-yUWHtUkGlYCDCt1hGkUhnGKS8/s640/Dam.JPG" title="Jayakwadi Dam, Paithan" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jayakwadi Dam, Paithan</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje6AOcRK4PfPS7CqtyZR0FVqLKwkG5qEVev-wyiVxMr8u9RVRiIlUeuxznG4Qg0KXsAhD_dxdF5quhyphenhyphenyyc4_xtUzFO1vorj0aBK-gH9UTBkLEkcKeXsxeeyGndDpBiHVlIp5L-BgkvaIE/s1600/Bird+Spotting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bird Watching at Jayakwadi Dam, Paithan" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje6AOcRK4PfPS7CqtyZR0FVqLKwkG5qEVev-wyiVxMr8u9RVRiIlUeuxznG4Qg0KXsAhD_dxdF5quhyphenhyphenyyc4_xtUzFO1vorj0aBK-gH9UTBkLEkcKeXsxeeyGndDpBiHVlIp5L-BgkvaIE/s640/Bird+Spotting.jpg" title="Bird Watching at Jayakwadi Dam, Paithan" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Bird Watching at Jayakwadi Dam, Paithan</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Another place of attraction is </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Dnyaneshwar Watika </b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">in Paithan.</span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"> </b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">It is</span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"> </b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">a</span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"> </b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">beautiful garden on the lines of Vrindavan garden in Mysore. In the evening the garden boasts about musical fountains</span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">.</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">We ended our day chewing paan from <b>Tara Paan Bhandar</b>, a famous stop for paan lovers in Aurangabad city.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaK7pyDefRTXlKMgCyDat2Im_YDvDgzhqtJIN4Fs4U9Y-rskx5OGxgf5xzzQ9kMcHPKCrbTZMhEWebB7XqWp2zm47wevf4_uBt7s4eR4ZzjKBUvTSlOPkl70I9ArMxQr_PEigh7QEOQts/s1600/Tara+Paan+Center.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tara Paan Bhandar" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaK7pyDefRTXlKMgCyDat2Im_YDvDgzhqtJIN4Fs4U9Y-rskx5OGxgf5xzzQ9kMcHPKCrbTZMhEWebB7XqWp2zm47wevf4_uBt7s4eR4ZzjKBUvTSlOPkl70I9ArMxQr_PEigh7QEOQts/s640/Tara+Paan+Center.jpg" title="Tara Paan Bhandar" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tara Paan Bhandar - The ultimate place for Paan Lovers </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">On our last day we went to </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Daulatabad Fort</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"> which was earlier known as </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Deogiri Fort</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">.</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack" style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"></a><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"> As soon as we entered the Fort a ‘Minar’ catches the eye. I have been to a couple of Forts in Maharashtra, but I have never seen a tower in any of them and that too an orangish tower. Another thing that comes to my mind when I enter this fort is that unlike other forts which are normally on a hill this fort starts from the ground level itself and then ends as a hill fort.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">The main gate of the fort has huge iron nails on it. They were put to hurt the elephants of the enemy if they try to barge in. We were greeted by cannons as soon as we enter the main gate of the fort. The fort had cannons which were mounted on wheels which would have been used in wars. Some cannons were beautifully crafted. Watching the cannons, I wondered how many wars the cannons have seen, how much blood have these cannons witnessed.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaygJHAMdd4GktEC3irtexldCnwh5b58FU4UexZCbF_QLZ6BfatCmgc76VrE7yOyf4JdEtyxSpcbs75bcFwyHex4LZY8x3mxMRdeG5Mt6xl0EjCLCHduGl4UrJNGK8bmpvvQfr1G9Eoyg/s1600/Deogiri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaygJHAMdd4GktEC3irtexldCnwh5b58FU4UexZCbF_QLZ6BfatCmgc76VrE7yOyf4JdEtyxSpcbs75bcFwyHex4LZY8x3mxMRdeG5Mt6xl0EjCLCHduGl4UrJNGK8bmpvvQfr1G9Eoyg/s640/Deogiri.jpg" title="Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">The walls of the fort were damaged but it was nice to see that there was no graffiti on the walls. We headed to the </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Chand Minar</b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">. We could spot this minar from the road itself. The minar is painted dark orange and entry inside the minar is not allowed. We then moved to see the Bharatmata Temple. The temple has a huge ground infront of it with pillars in the side. Each of the pillars had intricate carvings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">It had become very hot now and most of us decided to head back. Two people amongst us decided to ascend up. As they climbed up they smelt a damp and peculiar smell which they later came to know was because of the bats hanging on the dark corners of the fort. They decided to descend due to the unbearable damp smell of the bats.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUn7WNC9aPsMESFebZmqDi9KenU4vYrwkQMK2WNk6lCgN37IX8SVwvJ7cPYfk6uUXuFiDW7ZAHos4CM8fLc-WA0UnRom_VdMt68eOfSBn3mEnEvPCxv3KKBDfUJYeoQy9aetLV9xOUrTY/s1600/Devgiri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUn7WNC9aPsMESFebZmqDi9KenU4vYrwkQMK2WNk6lCgN37IX8SVwvJ7cPYfk6uUXuFiDW7ZAHos4CM8fLc-WA0UnRom_VdMt68eOfSBn3mEnEvPCxv3KKBDfUJYeoQy9aetLV9xOUrTY/s640/Devgiri.jpg" title="Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">After seeing the Daulatabad Fort, we still had time and decided to visit a small hill spot closeby, known as </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Mhaismal</b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">. We had our lunch at Mhaismal and pleased with the content of natural beauty. Post our lunch we headed to </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Uttam Mithai Bhandaar</b><span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;"> at Machli Khadak to enjoy its very famous and delicious imartis.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">After the finger licking imartis we still had time for our train and therefore went to a <b>Garden Zoo</b> which was situated at the heart of the city. This small zoo was a good source of entertainment for the youngsters. The zoo has animals like rabbit, jackal, deer, monkey, bear, emu, alligator, tiger, white tiger, leopard, elephant, birds etc. It has a separate park for snakes and houses python, rat snake, Russell viper etc. There is a small aquarium in the garden too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aurangabad Zoo, - Elephants, Leopard, Tiger, White Tiger</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">We then headed back to our hotel, picked up our luggage and went to the station. We had all confirmed tickets in Nandigram Express. The train was late by an hour. We had packed our dinner (burger, sandwich, fried rice and thumps up) and had it on the stairs of the station. Once we boarded the train, we all were dead tired and slept off in no time.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Accommodation:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">We were in Aurangabad for four days and three nights and stayed at <b>Hotel Raviraj</b> which is around 1.5 kms from the railway station. The hotel follows anytime check in which is a boon as our train reached Aurangabad at 4:00 am.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">The rooms of the hotel were spacious and comfortable. The room had amenities like hot water kettle, tea, coffee, hair dryer, TATA Sky cable connection other than the usual TV and AC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">The hotel also offered play area for children and adults.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">The food of the hotel is nice, though the service of the restaurant is very slow. It is advisable to order via room service as the food is served faster in the room than in the restaurant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Also, during check in the receptionist asked for an ID proof which has an address on it. So pan card is not accepted. Please carry your adhaar card or driving license if staying in this hotel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">I had booked this hotel one month in advance and they had confirmed my booking without taking any advance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Points to remember:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Ajanta Caves is located around 100 kms from Aurangabad. Ajanta Caves are closed on Monday and the timing of the caves are 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Entry ticket for Indians is Rs. 10 each and foreigners is Rs. 250 each.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Ellora Caves is located around 60 kms from Aurangabad. The Caves are closed on Tuesday and the timing of the caves is 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Entry ticket for Indians is Rs. 10 each and foreigner’s is Rs. 250 each.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Ajanta and Ellora both caves remain open on all National Holidays.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">If you are short of time then you can visit the main caves – Cave no 16, Kailash (It’s a must. Don’t miss it at all), Cave No. 32 (Jain Cave), Cave No. 10 (Buddhist Cave).</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">If you get a chance then climb up the hills near Cave No 16 (Kailash) and take in the aerial view of Kailash. It’s definitely worth the climb. However, the route has been officially cordoned off by the authorities as somewhat ‘unsafe’.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">It is recommended to visit Ellora caves and Grishneshwar Temple together as they are just 1 kms apart from each other.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 16.1px;">Keep one day each for Ajanta caves and Ellora caves as the caves can take a lot of time. It also involves a lot of walking and climbing stairs. You can get exhausted after a visit to the caves.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: palatino linotype, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px;">Btw, this is our group pic:</span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivnJAqbRrS_32wwZQ_HBF1R_Sksm_5JtBtyHKBjgVyc6tt620MjxRZIqKnCv5Ev8jTDmJH0a-SBbvqYl4tDpMcvzsbFFQmhPIZRgmAuqM0jk3bQbGFl1nWNe30IJMj6fo-CqZ40IZLYDU/s1600/Group+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivnJAqbRrS_32wwZQ_HBF1R_Sksm_5JtBtyHKBjgVyc6tt620MjxRZIqKnCv5Ev8jTDmJH0a-SBbvqYl4tDpMcvzsbFFQmhPIZRgmAuqM0jk3bQbGFl1nWNe30IJMj6fo-CqZ40IZLYDU/s640/Group+Photo.jpg" width="548" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing - Kiran, Satish, Nikhil, Pramod. Sitting - Nupur, Suni, Nikki, Mani & Shree</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India19.8761653 75.343313919.6372323 75.0205904 20.1150983 75.6660374tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-33524925289975279722016-02-05T17:36:00.000+05:302016-02-09T17:11:09.785+05:30Ajanta & Ellora - Caves Expedition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">It was in the middle
of November 2015 that I realized that there is a long weekend coming up in
January 2016 (Saturday – Sunday – Monday take leave – Tuesday, 26 Jan, Republic
Day). The next step was to think of a place to go. I whatsapped my friends and
asked their idea for a four day weekend trip to Aurangabad, and OMG everyone
said yes!!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">I just couldn’t
believe this so before anyone gives it a second thought I had booked the train
tickets. We decided to go by Devagiri Express which starts from CST at 21:10
and reaches Aurangabad the next morning at 04:10. It was waitlisted 7 onwards.
All of us assumed that there is still lot of time for the journey date and the
ticket will get confirmed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Our return journey
was booked on Nandigram Express which starts from Nagpur, reaches Aurangabad at
21:35 and reaches CST the next morning at 5:30 am.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">We had to leave for
Aurangabad on 22 January night but by 21<sup>st</sup> January our train tickets
were still waitlisted. So we divided our group into two – 3 people (Satish,
Suneela, Shree (3 year old kid) and Nikhil) booked an AC sleeper Bus boarding at
Dadar at 22:00 and reaching Aurangabad at 7:00 am the next morning. The bus is
a good option as it is comfortable and there are lot more choices available
among bus operators.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Rest of us (Kiran,
Mani, Pramod, Nikita and me) were supposed to travel by train, hoping and
praying for our train tickets to get confirmed. Out of the five berths four got
confirmed around 10:30 am on the journey date and the fifth got confirmed in the
evening when the chart got confirmed. Wheee!!! What a relief. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">We all took our modes
of transportation and headed for Aurangabad on 22 Jan late evening. Nikita had
packed sandwiches and parathas for us which we had in the train while the bus
group had their dinner at Pritam Dhaba in Dadar east. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0a4FUxDYTVAs-HeTocc8VrYxYYZ0s73Fh-fY8vHS7uwjwt1zxeA3fbDJ6NXmnFqvvWCw6YAOvSAPcs1PdY8CqTki_2PW4_5NYXQQrBIUfZYD9k68POdmhnUVkDO2xu5aPx5MgpshyphenhyphenV4/s1600/Aurangabad+Station.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Aurangabad Station at 04:32 am" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0a4FUxDYTVAs-HeTocc8VrYxYYZ0s73Fh-fY8vHS7uwjwt1zxeA3fbDJ6NXmnFqvvWCw6YAOvSAPcs1PdY8CqTki_2PW4_5NYXQQrBIUfZYD9k68POdmhnUVkDO2xu5aPx5MgpshyphenhyphenV4/s640/Aurangabad+Station.JPG" title="Aurangabad Station at 04:32 am" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aurangabad Station at 04:32 am</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Our train was on
time, and we reached Aurangabad around 4:00 in the morning. It was cold and a
little foggy. We had booked a cab for our four day travel in and around
Aurangabad and our cab driver, Atul had come to the station to pick us up and
drop us at our hotel. We had already booked Hotel Raviraj for our stay in
Aurangabad, the best part of the hotel being 24 hours check in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Our hotel was around
1.5 kms away from the station and in no time we had checked in. Once in the
room we didn’t sleep; rather we all had a warm cup of tea and were busy
watching TV and chit chatting. We all started getting ready for the day and by
8:00 am the bus gang had also joined us. Now all of us were excited to take a
tour of Ajanta Caves. After a very lengthy breakfast (2 hours), we headed for </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Ajanta Caves</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4r-WUIAYGGIS_xR-oTAsZv5eb3uAVn8XQ1lP3iPGSOvIAQCU3JTGQMTLUZyFceoAMcN7KmcLRmheam6-Rm1J5jFsMOZA4N5AgmJsTT0_cNsoch3PhQo9C-G8LcQaBMohJE8GDB1PI608/s1600/Paintings+in+Ajanta+Caves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Paintings at Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4r-WUIAYGGIS_xR-oTAsZv5eb3uAVn8XQ1lP3iPGSOvIAQCU3JTGQMTLUZyFceoAMcN7KmcLRmheam6-Rm1J5jFsMOZA4N5AgmJsTT0_cNsoch3PhQo9C-G8LcQaBMohJE8GDB1PI608/s640/Paintings+in+Ajanta+Caves.jpg" title="Paintings at Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paintings at Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Aurangabad, is
largely known for Ajanta and Ellora caves. Both the caves are outside the
Aurangabad city – Ajanta being around 2.5 hours drive and Ellora – an hour
drive from the city.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Once dropped at the
entrance of Ajanta, you have to walk through the small souvenirs shops (kinda
like a flea market) to catch a bus which will take you to Ajanta Caves. The bus
ride is of 4 kms and it drops us at the main ticket counter. A walk of about 10
mins and we were in front of Cave No. 1. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">There are only a
handful of caves worth seeing in Ajanta – Caves 1 & 2 have remnants of
beautiful paintings done on the walls & ceiling. The paintings are in poor shape
and the caves are faintly lit. It is recommended to carry a torch with you in
order to appreciate the intricate paintings and sculptures. Also, flash
photography is prohibited.</span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDjSp8dW8NvVoV3sfXz3jrgspFCJmGtlvftxJ7ms3k3EH2v-iHIhr-gZsEFwVjfB0VKwQenuwBuZevJpoQSw0jHgv4bI2wo0JY9tJlNS7AlOJ8E6PhNFF_alwmVjvEV4fwGqV2Mj7hHo/s1600/Ajanta+Caves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDjSp8dW8NvVoV3sfXz3jrgspFCJmGtlvftxJ7ms3k3EH2v-iHIhr-gZsEFwVjfB0VKwQenuwBuZevJpoQSw0jHgv4bI2wo0JY9tJlNS7AlOJ8E6PhNFF_alwmVjvEV4fwGqV2Mj7hHo/s640/Ajanta+Caves.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ajanta Caves</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The best of all is
Cave no. 26 which showcases the Buddha in a sleeping posture (depicting the
posture in which he left the world). Ajanta caves largely reflect glimpses of
Buddhism. The caves majorly revolve around the life of Buddha – his birth, his
enlightenment and his nirvana.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbbRuw8oSl2W9fm5JP-Jd6QRLDcCwVA8_iI-aMmFANusEmI_ptAsZ11CectLgfC0cCuxLp0w0gmMrrBtLqQHx3KHLYch_in0OLb0CiC4XG1l293Uqm3PDx8pWe4rVq-wYy8A2STl85aU/s1600/IMG_4104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sleeping Buddha, Ajanta Caves" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbbRuw8oSl2W9fm5JP-Jd6QRLDcCwVA8_iI-aMmFANusEmI_ptAsZ11CectLgfC0cCuxLp0w0gmMrrBtLqQHx3KHLYch_in0OLb0CiC4XG1l293Uqm3PDx8pWe4rVq-wYy8A2STl85aU/s640/IMG_4104.JPG" title="Sleeping Buddha, Ajanta Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleeping Buddha - Cave 26, Ajanta Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlahAM_oiV594KjQjO2HGFBAsDRmV50Z5aVGv4ME1sKkHDhjYtrwtZd7DzRV867D1d1hIziN5-EYJVkl1SBYxKY2qx344TVRN7l8ktUO6KZyPudHxYfHN_aragac0MmW3vc3AJSjcPqGU/s1600/Ajanta+Caves+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlahAM_oiV594KjQjO2HGFBAsDRmV50Z5aVGv4ME1sKkHDhjYtrwtZd7DzRV867D1d1hIziN5-EYJVkl1SBYxKY2qx344TVRN7l8ktUO6KZyPudHxYfHN_aragac0MmW3vc3AJSjcPqGU/s640/Ajanta+Caves+1.jpg" title="Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvzuisZon5MJx2cyFwsyj3Pv8m_X0JTHpTqSM5wcAdXgBPZHDpePPY-s6wd1nzUeNRrcVQuTRC-UmIJ9thZ7rBZj1dTCNXg03G1yZeczpk5J2h-wTbwggBe0RSFsWPAlKSRT4hBCWu9c/s1600/Ajanta+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvzuisZon5MJx2cyFwsyj3Pv8m_X0JTHpTqSM5wcAdXgBPZHDpePPY-s6wd1nzUeNRrcVQuTRC-UmIJ9thZ7rBZj1dTCNXg03G1yZeczpk5J2h-wTbwggBe0RSFsWPAlKSRT4hBCWu9c/s640/Ajanta+2.jpg" title="Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sculptures at Ajanta Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">If you do not have
the time or the energy to see all the caves then you can see Cave no 1, 2, 10,
16, 17, 19 and 26 and ignore the rest.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">While I was walking
back, I wondered what made the Buddhist monks abandon Ajanta. Some caves were
half finished, some barely started. What happened at that time that they just
disappeared? Was there a war? Were they forced out? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The next day we
decided to start our day with Shiva’s blessing – <b>Grishneshwar Temple</b>. Grishneshwar Temple is the last jyotilinga –
12 holy and sacred abode of Lord Shiva and is about one km away from Ellora
Caves. The road from the parking lot leading to the temple is lined with small
shops selling pooja articles etc. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Mobile phones and
cameras are not allowed inside the temple premises so I cannot show you
pictures of the temple other than the top structure of the temple which we took
from far. There was a queue to enter the temple which was moving at a good
pace. The temple has a big complex which is clean and well maintained. Since
Nikita had a plaster in her foot, she got an immediate entry in the temple (I
escorted her inside ;)), while the rest of us followed the queue.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghFdF5KYJaL-CYAGYUySU-hJQ_2iEzDpmf1DvsSVc1WDi-vUiRDHrXfywYsu2ai6m5IpBbZIcC2L4yGAU-PgtahoyShBwrCT-yl0EaOd7YMwqwXBZyrHfYApxCADhPav9c_KVZPpviO10/s1600/Grihneshwar+Temple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Grishneshwar Temple" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghFdF5KYJaL-CYAGYUySU-hJQ_2iEzDpmf1DvsSVc1WDi-vUiRDHrXfywYsu2ai6m5IpBbZIcC2L4yGAU-PgtahoyShBwrCT-yl0EaOd7YMwqwXBZyrHfYApxCADhPav9c_KVZPpviO10/s640/Grihneshwar+Temple.JPG" title="Grishneshwar Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grishneshwar Temple - 12th Jyotilinga</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">One strange thing
about the temple is that men have to take off all clothes from their upper
torso (that is their shirt/t-shirt and innerwear) before entering the temple.
No idea why.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Once out of the
temple, there will be loads of small kids begging for money saying that they
have to buy notebook. Please be very careful, because if you give money to one
kid, the other kids will hound you and will drive you mad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Our next stop of the
day was the much talked about - <b>Ellora
Caves</b>. Ellora Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage site and consists of 34
caves – Buddhist, Hindu and Jain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The first cave that
we saw in Ellora was C<b>ave no 16</b>,
known as <b>Kailash Temple </b>(the home of
Lord Shiva). I was thunderstruck with this cave, completely unprepared for its
magnitude, intricacy of its carvings and its architecture. This was the most
beautiful structure I have seen till now. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">I am at a loss of
words to describe the magnificence of Kailash. This cave was carved out of a
rock and took around 200 years (10 generations) to be made. The vision of the
sculptors was such that they carved the cave starting from the roof and worked
their way downwards. There are sculptures depicting stories from the great
Hindu epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. There is a huge Shivling on the first
storey of Kailash Cave.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8uqIrLZrsXxuBad9fci-_z362_onq53trCfGW2fWg0fzLgQ2G8G2ZKi4deEkBApjrS7gJpUngadNpyqB0c1as2Q4ZnPmrFty7fCfrheRbzQF6cM1BzkHBT63yKM6VtnyyGa91A4QXDs/s1600/Kailash+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8uqIrLZrsXxuBad9fci-_z362_onq53trCfGW2fWg0fzLgQ2G8G2ZKi4deEkBApjrS7gJpUngadNpyqB0c1as2Q4ZnPmrFty7fCfrheRbzQF6cM1BzkHBT63yKM6VtnyyGa91A4QXDs/s640/Kailash+1.jpg" title="Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuJbefmEgOFLVXmvyRe-MT1ZwOEv1_CFVFWEdK-FgS2CA25Lcl1CPOIsHdpHv48KY2J3khh09Q1uEfXczMI-lh9wHkeskxvOTXcVRwW_Y_NY3XxYvjy0dSfOekKoZzIhHj8O7yg-iG5c/s1600/Ajanta+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuJbefmEgOFLVXmvyRe-MT1ZwOEv1_CFVFWEdK-FgS2CA25Lcl1CPOIsHdpHv48KY2J3khh09Q1uEfXczMI-lh9wHkeskxvOTXcVRwW_Y_NY3XxYvjy0dSfOekKoZzIhHj8O7yg-iG5c/s640/Ajanta+2.jpg" title="Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYTsinn5zObTizJZ0vZHjLgFr3DHAPzeHdbmwQW58S3KDVFJC_RQgBhPnn5TIkwGeFD-R-jtKeTOOPPJJEeGKivkrMZvO5gA68mvedKQGKChW_qV35UxJaj_YKrhW0eu3BS_Xvtstpgs/s1600/Ajanta+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYTsinn5zObTizJZ0vZHjLgFr3DHAPzeHdbmwQW58S3KDVFJC_RQgBhPnn5TIkwGeFD-R-jtKeTOOPPJJEeGKivkrMZvO5gA68mvedKQGKChW_qV35UxJaj_YKrhW0eu3BS_Xvtstpgs/s640/Ajanta+3.jpg" title="Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">After this, we took a
bus and went to the </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Cave no 32, 33 and
34</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"> which are the Jain Caves. Cave 32 is a double storey cave and has some
beautiful carvings of Lord Mahavira. It is tough to appreciate any carvings
after seeing the Kailash though. There is a large size elephant standing on the
right side of the entrance of the cave. The first storey of this cave is like
an assembly hall and has some really detailed and exquisite carvings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">We tried chanting
“OM” in these caves and what we heard and what we felt gave us goose bums. The
chants had an echoing sound within the stone walls. I could only imagine the
spiritual experience the people chanting in these caves would have felt.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPifKMGb4JsteAoTOqDmIReOuX5Lkojn5f27bmNzY61-JZbyAyVRQCDO2mL-UcIq83PFiYluRPcgulbRmhpB1HcdjzchPX3luf1BVDAkDPlTHDPP8PYLbGrJVRcDCYAyw9aZ6Vsi6LJlM/s1600/Cave+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cave 32 - Ellora Caves" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPifKMGb4JsteAoTOqDmIReOuX5Lkojn5f27bmNzY61-JZbyAyVRQCDO2mL-UcIq83PFiYluRPcgulbRmhpB1HcdjzchPX3luf1BVDAkDPlTHDPP8PYLbGrJVRcDCYAyw9aZ6Vsi6LJlM/s640/Cave+32.jpg" title="Cave 32 - Ellora Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave 32 - Ellora Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3OOE1ptVYPoMeuwgFypfqA1SXquB2-woqGqDA-Gnu0BajmMBzxcPNG28UJOSPMI_7UhcmruBSLx7b88YAsC-4tpOdtCietXWgyvOnjxpW2R4qjOHsiwK82-AM-9rYm-WcN4j7Y40XBlc/s1600/Jain+Cave+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Jain Caves - Cave 32 at Ellora Caves" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3OOE1ptVYPoMeuwgFypfqA1SXquB2-woqGqDA-Gnu0BajmMBzxcPNG28UJOSPMI_7UhcmruBSLx7b88YAsC-4tpOdtCietXWgyvOnjxpW2R4qjOHsiwK82-AM-9rYm-WcN4j7Y40XBlc/s640/Jain+Cave+32.jpg" title="Jain Caves - Cave 32 at Ellora Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jain Caves - Cave 32 at Ellora Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Our last stop at Ellora
was </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Cave no 10</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">, which had a
magnanimous Buddha statue (sitting cross legged posture). The watchman of the
cave told us that the ribbed ceiling represents the rib cage of the human body
and the stupa represents the mind. In olden times, travelers & monks used
to come to this cave to rest & meditate. The first storey of the cave had a
provision for seating musicians who would play relaxing & soothing music in
the background.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDwyJxblMZX3XEcmEW4NmZLm8DddneHbwUirDHP1lGbASHIAj85Uf_Zju_XxVrARl7RgRZ6B719pEyTeFHMmveGRUTSGxSodMFSvTAQpCU77e2gA5K7YYhEw1vrL7nZGYlGfhEl2VwgA/s1600/Cave+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cave 10, Ellora Caves" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDwyJxblMZX3XEcmEW4NmZLm8DddneHbwUirDHP1lGbASHIAj85Uf_Zju_XxVrARl7RgRZ6B719pEyTeFHMmveGRUTSGxSodMFSvTAQpCU77e2gA5K7YYhEw1vrL7nZGYlGfhEl2VwgA/s640/Cave+10.jpg" title="Cave 10, Ellora Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave 10, Ellora Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The next thing that I
wanted to do was climb the hill near the Kailash cave and have a look at
Kailash from the top. The way to the top of the hill is barricaded but I still
went through and found myself spell bound when I saw the view from the top. The
aerial view of Kailash is as beautiful as the cave itself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ejiK1HHUOQ4qkQ0K95pTrEpCfq4JjqAYzjmsQm9b5y92pio2LMVx4R5tXzrymMJ5ukEdXNQli3vwR8Wr6CYn8lm5mvf96qAV22oUcoPsi0xm7tByPVxgFJTqyhRZTKmeJT7Lt24t3mg/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Aerial View of Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ejiK1HHUOQ4qkQ0K95pTrEpCfq4JjqAYzjmsQm9b5y92pio2LMVx4R5tXzrymMJ5ukEdXNQli3vwR8Wr6CYn8lm5mvf96qAV22oUcoPsi0xm7tByPVxgFJTqyhRZTKmeJT7Lt24t3mg/s640/1.JPG" title="Aerial View of Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerial View of Kailash, Cave 16, Ellora Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">It may take a full
day to see all the caves and the sun can be quite harsh. But you can feel the
cool as soon you enter any cave. The caves are beautiful and leave you
speechless. No words can do justice to them. They are beyond the limits of
words and imagination. If the caves at Ajanta were all about paintings and
murals, the caves at Ellora were all about sculptures.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">These caves makes you
think how people in that era can make just beautiful sculptures with just
chisel and hammer at their disposal, when there was no electricity, when there
was no mode of transportation. It made me wonder how they managed to carve so
much out of such hard rock with almost nothing at their disposal. Clearly, they
were much advanced then what we are now.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Next, we stopped over
a temple called <b>Bhadra Maruti Temple,
Khuldabad</b>. As the name suggests it is a Hanuman Temple (the most ardent
devotee of Lord Rama) where the Lord is in sleeping position. It was not
crowded at all and therefore we had a very good darshan with no one pushing
from behind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJQj4gI9K4OIxsB1hCC0wv-34bxKXvjjveiTqfWTI4cCR_ZXXQmzOLZHMCA6eMI_sfMVNvs1w6i8k98m5d6lt1Ahp5dbw5BOH6I3smAQTBXzSsg6_s1hyphenhyphen5Ngg0NOY5c018ePSk207ahI/s1600/Bhadra+Maruti+Temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bhadra Maruti Temple, Khuldabad" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJQj4gI9K4OIxsB1hCC0wv-34bxKXvjjveiTqfWTI4cCR_ZXXQmzOLZHMCA6eMI_sfMVNvs1w6i8k98m5d6lt1Ahp5dbw5BOH6I3smAQTBXzSsg6_s1hyphenhyphen5Ngg0NOY5c018ePSk207ahI/s640/Bhadra+Maruti+Temple.jpg" title="Bhadra Maruti Temple, Khuldabad" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bhadra Maruti Temple, Khuldabad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Our last stop for the
day was at a Paithani Saree shop where we first went to the weaving area. As it
was Sunday and way past 6:00 pm, the weaving section was closed for the day. We
could just see the machinery used to make the very famous </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Paithani Sarees</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"> and </span><b style="font-family: 'palatino linotype', serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Himroo
weaves</b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">. One of the members of the shop was kind enough to show us the
weaving center and explain the process. We then went to the shop for some
shopping but came out empty handed (as we didn’t like anything much). The price
for Paithani Sarees starts from Rs. 6,000 and can go upto Rs. 3 Lacs. Himroo
Sarees in this shop started from Rs. 1,750.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tUn0u_Wu_M9dUbBpJTobukwkawLN0w3eI9Quv-q1BSTVLWtZ3ERb5BfM1L4I5ASFux8nz9H9JdJgZ6FIii0pdiYeIc62D7alse93ysC5FRGAgk_pn0WIBV0EzZpFzX8ZdiXhcg8UeVs/s1600/Paithani+-+Hand+weaving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Paithani - Hand weaving" border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tUn0u_Wu_M9dUbBpJTobukwkawLN0w3eI9Quv-q1BSTVLWtZ3ERb5BfM1L4I5ASFux8nz9H9JdJgZ6FIii0pdiYeIc62D7alse93ysC5FRGAgk_pn0WIBV0EzZpFzX8ZdiXhcg8UeVs/s640/Paithani+-+Hand+weaving.jpg" title="Paithani - Hand weaving" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paithani - Hand Weaving</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>I will write about my Day 3 & 4 in my next blog where I saw Daulatabad Fort and a Hill station called Mhaismal</i><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<ul>
</ul>
</div>
goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India19.8761653 75.343313919.6372323 75.0205904 20.1150983 75.6660374tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910850521321905735.post-67800973102398578412016-01-23T05:26:00.001+05:302016-01-23T05:26:55.554+05:30Athirapally Waterfall, Kerala<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">DAY
10: ATHIRAPALLY WATERFALL & BACK TO MUMBAI<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Today
was the last day of our vacation and also our last day in Kerala. We started
early as we had to see Athirapally Waterfall before we catch our flight (back
to Mumbai) from Kochi. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">And
once again we were all in our car, enjoying the lush greenery of Kerala. There
were times when we could feel that we were almost floating through the clouds.
The feeling was very soothing. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Gp3TDf56a2X_FG-f6RU1a7hyphenhyphenX0S9KvbKagBYoIgrjYSqWGAoRg7otEjeim6NzgUZypPQXrgQsA2p1D7rbd_N56rON6bmgoZMfBzjpHbmkrQ-JQV7NvfMR1pBbv9gNW-DTDZpJBaRpng/s1600/Idukki+Reservoir.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Idukki Lake" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Gp3TDf56a2X_FG-f6RU1a7hyphenhyphenX0S9KvbKagBYoIgrjYSqWGAoRg7otEjeim6NzgUZypPQXrgQsA2p1D7rbd_N56rON6bmgoZMfBzjpHbmkrQ-JQV7NvfMR1pBbv9gNW-DTDZpJBaRpng/s640/Idukki+Reservoir.JPG" title="Idukki Lake" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Idukki Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pK83TwqpUK8AWx-0DX26LcMOYy0vnbT4eFlknKJmCJycUpY6Vvn8C5WKAh0B-Kam6Ge0UaBdGTsPNh8Dq-JRLF1idJM-_1Hd5fk0qFYwqiLXUI0tfwLnHUwvI_YZLCtWqwQ9ClgjfEA/s1600/Idukki+Dam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Idukki Dam" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pK83TwqpUK8AWx-0DX26LcMOYy0vnbT4eFlknKJmCJycUpY6Vvn8C5WKAh0B-Kam6Ge0UaBdGTsPNh8Dq-JRLF1idJM-_1Hd5fk0qFYwqiLXUI0tfwLnHUwvI_YZLCtWqwQ9ClgjfEA/s640/Idukki+Dam.JPG" title="Idukki Dam" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Idukki Dam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Half
way to Athirapally we found ourselves in the midst of a dense rubber
plantation. Both sides of the road were full of rubber plants with a half cut
coconut shell fixed at the middle of the tree for collecting rubber. The drive
to Athirapally passes through winding roads, small villages and lush greenery.
It is situated in the midst of a thick forest, therefore one should avoid
driving here at night.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">You
can enjoy the waterfall from the top as well from the bottom. A paved path
leads you to the top of the waterfall whereas a steep narrow path leads you to
the bottom of the waterfall. Generally there are a lot of monkeys along both
paths and one should be especially careful of their mobile phones, camera &
video recorders. As far as possible avoid carrying water bottles or eatables in
your hand. Take a break, consume your food
& water and then start again.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2odsf-2NHinkM9iJ8muYEXNdtpvgy0Uu_ENsJ05zdzAWBQSGSiFMHEaTM8tSTmGgGs2ktlS_CBwgQMTJciDxqLTB7ss3xhLZSa96xI1VDdDuQZcOvsO55Is3idF8E9bXyihIv_efG5qA/s1600/First+View+of+the+Waterfall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="First View of Athirapally Waterfall" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2odsf-2NHinkM9iJ8muYEXNdtpvgy0Uu_ENsJ05zdzAWBQSGSiFMHEaTM8tSTmGgGs2ktlS_CBwgQMTJciDxqLTB7ss3xhLZSa96xI1VDdDuQZcOvsO55Is3idF8E9bXyihIv_efG5qA/s640/First+View+of+the+Waterfall.JPG" title="First View of Athirapally Waterfall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First View of Athirapally Waterfall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOZ863SiTNm_FjqUztH8QxQ7u2BvaJabzwP4d4OBRq-kqz48-OxyLkyn-i9qWMazY7Y5CEpI2pHlFm79FXXz93hSTpyIDQP7soBK7BxGwQuIuStCIL42_MBj9i5fZoG0vhTlGvFSzFa4g/s1600/Athirapally+-+Top+View.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Athirapally Waterfall - Top View" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOZ863SiTNm_FjqUztH8QxQ7u2BvaJabzwP4d4OBRq-kqz48-OxyLkyn-i9qWMazY7Y5CEpI2pHlFm79FXXz93hSTpyIDQP7soBK7BxGwQuIuStCIL42_MBj9i5fZoG0vhTlGvFSzFa4g/s640/Athirapally+-+Top+View.JPG" title="Athirapally Waterfall - Top View" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Athirapally Waterfall - Top View</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUguVrGYGQTsqnB1pW6uLFckuB-dBJWVYIBuH2ZCH1_1zUH6fHaPiIonillfxpEc9CQl6HuOzJpkrCvW1dAOTbuMtWOg6mwcBx-QZc1xifrVkczIedkVqqVS1Nr8_aFnfZf0Cta0qMmEA/s1600/Athirapally+-+Bottom+View.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Athirapally Waterfall - Bottom View" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUguVrGYGQTsqnB1pW6uLFckuB-dBJWVYIBuH2ZCH1_1zUH6fHaPiIonillfxpEc9CQl6HuOzJpkrCvW1dAOTbuMtWOg6mwcBx-QZc1xifrVkczIedkVqqVS1Nr8_aFnfZf0Cta0qMmEA/s640/Athirapally+-+Bottom+View.JPG" title="Athirapally Waterfall - Bottom View" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Athirapally Waterfall - Bottom View</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9bQPjJSMGtOL70PeIuiGRUmpvL78f5l8ky0dbD2tdJAEOZBSR-5q9Ypi4W2eSjwa4xp4jzD8D7zAuQ1b6EB-ktKYrzAMbjUcPHpqBW0nnMQc5HbgaP2aY8o7HbLLmhLYqqP2fyWf3D4/s1600/The+gigantic+waterfall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Athirapally Waterfall" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR9bQPjJSMGtOL70PeIuiGRUmpvL78f5l8ky0dbD2tdJAEOZBSR-5q9Ypi4W2eSjwa4xp4jzD8D7zAuQ1b6EB-ktKYrzAMbjUcPHpqBW0nnMQc5HbgaP2aY8o7HbLLmhLYqqP2fyWf3D4/s640/The+gigantic+waterfall.JPG" title="Athirapally Waterfall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Athirapally Waterfall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">The
waterfall is a panoramic, charming and gigantic. There are lot of spots for
taking selfies or snaps of the waterfall. Though a little off season the
waterfall was still thundering down with tremendous force.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">We
didn’t spend too much time at the waterfall as we had a flight to catch. We
then headed to Kochi Airport from where we took a flight back to Mumbai. Kochi
Airport is nearer to Athirapally than Kochi City. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">In
this vacation we covered everything – Backwaters of Alleppey, Beaches of
Lakshadweep, Hills of Munnar, Tiger Reserve of Periyar and Waterfall at
Athirapally. What else is there that a person can ask for……. Except where is
our next vacation gonna be ;) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , "serif";">Points to
remember:<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">You
can combine Vazachall falls and Charpa Falls with your visit to Athirapally
Waterfalls. These two waterfalls are in close vicinity.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif;">Expense
Details of the day:</span></li>
</ul>
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<td nowrap="" style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 232.25pt;" valign="bottom" width="310"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">Expense Particulars<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">Amount for 4 people<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td nowrap="" style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.4pt;" valign="bottom" width="138"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">Amount per head<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
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<tr style="height: 15.1pt; mso-yfti-irow: 1;">
<td nowrap="" style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 232.25pt;" valign="bottom" width="310"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">Breakfast enroute Athirapally<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 123.35pt;" valign="bottom" width="164"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;"> 235 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.4pt;" valign="bottom" width="138"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">
59 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td nowrap="" style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 232.25pt;" valign="bottom" width="310"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">Lunch at Airport<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 123.35pt;" valign="bottom" width="164"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;"> 400 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.4pt;" valign="bottom" width="138"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">
100 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td nowrap="" style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 232.25pt;" valign="bottom" width="310"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">TOTAL<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 123.35pt;" valign="bottom" width="164"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;"> 635 <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<td nowrap="" style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 15.1pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-right-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 103.4pt;" valign="bottom" width="138"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 10pt;">
159 <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
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goyalnups@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07200320945329317662noreply@blogger.com0