Hidden heritage of Uttarakhand

They say living in the mountains is challenging because of the harsh circumstances one has to face every day. The denizens of Uttarakhand give a peek to their rigorous and meticulous lifestyle. However, this is just a tight cap putting a lid on the ancient heritage, kaleidoscopic festival, exquisite artwork thriving in these lofty hills for centuries. Blessed with natural beauties, navigating through the serpentine roads of Uttarakhand will make you see plenty of peaceful hamlets perched on verdant hills. While many of these villages are transformed into full-fledged cities, there are still a few places that have retained the ancient charms. Here are the five things that will fill your eyes in wonders and astonishment as you start exploring the exuberant lifestyle of people living in the mountains. 

Pahari Wood Work

Wood carving is a unique craft aced by the natives of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by the thick foliage of pine, oak, and rhododendron trees, the place is abundant with wood which is not only seen as a significant energy resource but it is also used as a decorative item in every household. Passing through the scenic villages will make you come across intricate wood designs etched on doors and ceiling. The open space of the windows is filled with specific latticework to give a screen-like effect by the skilled craftspersons. Designs of animals, fishes, gods, and deities are the popular motifs used in the unique work of woods.

    

Pahari Ornaments

In the hills, you will come across many Pahari women donned with traditional jewelry. Beautifully Carved in gold and silver, the women are not only fond of these wonderful ornaments for adding grace and femininity to one's personality but also play an important part in Uttarakhand traditions. Jewelry such as Kundal(earrings), Bulaq ( nose ring), Paunj (anklets) is the popularly used ornaments found in this part of India. The exquisite gold necklaces such as Hansuli, Chandan Haar, and Galobandh are also worn with great pride. Nathuli- the nose ring of a bride is the star attraction at a wedding. Popular for the elegant design it is considered to be the most distinguished piece of jewel in Uttarakhand.

Costumes

Uttarakhand- the land of gods is famous across the globe for preserving centuries-old temples and attracting a major influx of tourists every year. However, the land is under the gaze of many fashionistas for advocating traditional costumes. Picchaura is a customary outfit worn by women during festivals and other auspicious occasions. Weaved in a yellow piece of cloth with circular patterns in red colors, significant value is attached to this piece of cloth that's why it is used in many important rituals and ceremonies. The Pahari men usually wear long Kurta, Pyjama paired with a topi or a pagadi. During weddings, while brides wear Ghagri- a skirt like a garment with along with choli and Pichhaura, grooms are donned with yellow Dhoti and Kurta. As men travel long-distance on foot, they carry a silver coin in a pouch tied around their waist to protect them from theft and other unfavorable events.

Pahari Cuisine

Being divided into two major regions, Garhwal and Kumaon, Uttarakhand is an origin to several delicious cuisines that adds on to Indian Gastronomy. Surrounded by lush green valleys and meadows, the scrumptious cuisines of Uttarakhand is majorly dominated by green leafy vegetables such as Kandalee Ka Saag, Chainsoo, Lingru ki Sabji etc. To satisfy your craving for sweets you can relish the mouthwatering Jhangora Ki Kheer, Gulgula, Arsa etc.

Asian Adventures' upcoming tour to Ranikhet is an incredible journey to explore the quintessential of Uttarakhand. While staying at one of the best hotels in Ranikhet, you will be bestowed amazing opportunity to hone your skills in photography, trying on delicious cuisines, learn about the unique culture and most importantly rekindle your bond with mother nature

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7 Destinations to Visit this December

December is that period of the year when most of the planet is soaked in the lucent beds of snow. This is also a time when the bone-chilling winds of Siberia, Antarctica, Europe, and Far East Asia compels many beautiful birds to make their interim home in India because of its soothing climate and diverse landforms. Surrounded by the water bodies from three sides along with the majestic Himalayan range sprawling in the north, the country is a threshold to many hidden gems and unsullied landscapes blooming to its full glory during the coldest season. While some places are radiating with the mirage of the bygone eras, other places are oozing with the ethereal beauty of nature's bounty.

Marked with a stretch of long holidays, December is a great month to evoke an adrenaline rush and thrill in your travel journeys. Here are the top 16 destinations which will make your winter vacations the experiential one.

A) Historical Walks of Kumaon

Sitting in the verdant hills of the Himalayas, the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is scattered with tranquil villages and scenic towns exuding with the glory of green hills, freshwater lakes, and snow-clad mountains. While trailing through its topsy-turvy lanes will open the gateway to many unspoilt colonies of birds and mammals, one can also uncoil the doorway to several ancient temples and caves. If the masonry of Jageshwar Dham Temple talks architectural style that prevailed between the 8th and 9th century, the vicinity of Mukteshwar Temple, Vrish Jageshwar Temple, Naina Devi Temple, Haidakhan Babaji Temple, and Jhula Devi Temple are reverberating with the hymns of Vedic shlokas. Besides carrying the spiritual angle these temples are world-renowned for offering bewitching views of many popular peaks and summits of the Himalayas. The meticulously handcrafted tour of 'The Historical Walks of Kumaon' will make you uncover places like Jageshwar, Mukteshwar, and Pangot that has been carrying these highly-energized temples since yore.

B) 5 elements of Andamans

The archipelago of the Andaman Islands is yet another great escape from the cold winds of the north. Laced by palm trees overlooking the pristine turquoise beaches ringed around its beautiful isles, Andaman is a perfect destination to unleash your passion for scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water sports activities. Every Island in Andaman display a unique canvas about its rich culture and unique landscape that thrives in the region. If the cellular jail of Port Blair echoes with the oppression of our freedom fighter, charming landscape of Neil's Island cast a magical spell on you. Besides soaking into the captivating sunset of Neil's Island, you will get ample opportunity to unfold the gorgeous life dwelling in the vast percent of Chidiya Tapu. With Asian Adventures' upcoming Andaman Tour brace yourself to explore the five elements of Andamans.

C) Hatha Yoga Jageshwar

Paving way through the dense forest of Uttarakhand will lead you to Jageshwar- one of India's ancient villages. Scattered with centuries-old temples and caves, the place gives a deep insight into the mystical civilization that flourished before the science of architecture and culture emerged in other parts of the world. One may see Jageshwar as Shiva's abode for the various forms of Shiva beautiful depicted in these temples, but the place is also filled with tranquil and picturesque beauty alluring people to spend some quality time on the lap of nature. All it takes is a long peep or a quiet stroll in its untamed land to lay your eyes on the beautiful colonies of the rare Himalayan birds. However, it is the celestial night of Jageshwar that has become a muse for any artist. With the spiral of milky adorned like a jewel in the midnight sky, Jageshwar is one of India's ultimate destinations for starry night walks.

D) Varanasi

Shores of river Ganges have seen the emergence of many cities and town but it is the spiritualism seeping under the mayhem of Varanasi that has garnered popularity across the globe. Feted as one of the oldest towns on this planet, it is amongst the sacred places in India attracting pilgrims from all corners of the world. It is said that on the

Shores of river Ganges have seen the emergence of many cities and town but it is the spiritualism seeping under the mayhem of Varanasi that has garnered popularity across the globe. Feted as one of the oldest cities on this planet, the arrangement of the place radiates the ancient culture that reverberates in its vast expanse. One will get to see around 2000 types of temples and for this reason, Varanasi is called the land of temples. Various famous and important temples have been situated at the Ganges Ghats. The presence of the river Ganges is just like a topping on any dessert.

E) Sikkim

Flanked between Nepal, Bhutan, and West Bengal, Sikkim is a mountain kingdom shrouded by natural beauty and ancient monasteries reverberating with Buddhist hymns. Cruising through its topsy-turvy lanes will bring you to the glacial-fed lakes of Tsomgo and Gurudongmar which are feted as the highest lakes in the world. The crisscross of creeks and beautiful pathways can lead the way to Goecha La, the highest mountain pass of Sikkim from where one can have the panoramic view of the valley. While the ancient Tibetan monasteries are the star attraction of the place, one can take out some time to visit Yumthang- the valley of flowers in the east. While the ancient Tibetan monasteries are the star attraction of the place, one can take out some time to visit Yumthang- the valley of flowers in the east. Dazzling with beds of colorful flowers, the untouched landscape of the place filled with hot springs, rolling meadows, rolling pastures rekindles your bond with nature long lost in the humdrum of city life.

F) Eaglenest

Sitting in the unsullied landscape of Arunachal Pradesh, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal hotspot for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. The innumerable variety of insects and butterflies fluttering in the region speak volumes about our ignorance of these small beings who are playing a vital role in maintaining the ecosystem of the planet. While the hard yet overwhelmingly shiny elytra of beetles might hook your eyes astonishment, your experience manifolds when you cross pathways with the colorful and rare winged species. The place is a humble abode for more than six hundred species of birds and has been a talking point amongst the birding community after the discovery of new species of Liocichla family which was later named Bugun Liocichla. Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is dotted with several camps that have been the perching point of many gorgeous birds and mammals including such as Temminck's tragopan, Red Panda, Blyth's tragopan, Beautiful nuthatch, Ward's trogon, White-winged duck, Rufous-headed Parrotbill, Red-faced Liocichla, Chestnut-headed tesia, Fire-breasted flowerpecker, etc. If exploring this hidden valley is in your bucket list, don't shy away in joining Asian Adventures' forthcoming Eaglenest Tour. Spearheaded by an expert naturalist, the tour will surely prove to be a boon for those who want to witness the rare species peacefully dwelling in North East India.

G) Kaziranga 

Residing in the heart of Assam, Kaziranga National Park is one of the last surviving grounds for the critically endangered One-horned Rhinos. It is a matter of both praise and disgrace on how this wonderful family of mammals is facing the wrath of poaching in different parts of the world. Covering an area of 430 km2 the sanctuary is globally acknowledged for guarding unique and rare wildlife thriving in the region. The beautiful amalgamation of wetland, grassland, beels and exposed sandbars have been a roosting place of mammals, birds and reptiles such as Bengal Tigers, Asian Leopards, Water Buffalos, Capped Langur, Asian Elephants, Pallas's fish eagle, Lesser Adjutant, Greater Adjutant, Baer's Pochard, Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Rock Python, Monitor Lizard, Brown Tortoise etc. A twelve nights and fourteen days tour of Asian Adventures is all set to bewitch you with beautiful wilderness thriving in Kaziranga National Park, besides witnessing their prolific gait, you will get many opportunities to photograph them from different angles.

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Wild Ass Sanctuary in Little Rann of Kutch – Getting There, Location and Best Time to Visit

Home to the endangered Indian wild ass, the Wild Ass Sanctuary in Little Rann of Kutch is India’s largest wildlife sanctuary. Stretched over 5000 sq. km, the vast and unusual terrain of the sanctuary is basically a salt marsh having barren mudflats covered with bets (little islands).

Established in 1973 for the conservation of endangered wild ass, the Wild Ass Sanctuary has several other wild animals like desert foxes, wolves, antelopes, jackals, and snakes. The wild ass is quite bigger than a common donkey but is strong and fast as a horse. They are so fast that they can run up to 30 miles (50 km) per hour in long distances. Notably, Wild Ass Sanctuary is also a paradise for many birds and the world’s largest breeding ground for Lesser Flamingos.

Where is it located

Wild Ass Sanctuary is located in the Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. It is 45 km northwest of Virangam, 130 km northwest of Ahmedabad, 265 km east of Bhuj and 175 km north of Rajkot. Bajana and Dhrangadhra are two entrances to the wildlife sanctuary.

Getting There

Dhrangadhra is located only 16 km away to the Wild AssSanctuary, making it the nearest railway station. Many trains going towards Delhi and Mumbai stop there. Virangam Junction is very conveniently located in Bajana range and many trains also stop there. 

If you want to get there by bus, you can easily access the sanctuary from different parts of the state. It takes around 2 to 3 hours to get to Dhrangadhra from Ahmedabad. But Dhrangadhra is easily accessible through public transport as it lies on the Kutch-Ahmedabad highway. So, you can easily get there from all the buses which travel from Kutch to Ahmedabad.

Best Time to Visit

The peak season over there is winter when the weather remains cold from December to March. The scorching heat of summer starts from April onwards and later goes very unbearable. The Little Rann of Kutch is filled with water during the monsoon months from June to September. The months of October to November are the breeding seasons just after the monsoon. These are some of the best times for the tourists as grasslands remain tender and fresh for animals to graze.

Attractions

Along with wildlife, you can also visit here to explore the dazzling salt pans forming on the edge near Dhrangadhra. More than 80% of salt is produced in Gujarat and India is the third-largest producer in India. The local salt farmers “Agariyas” harvest the salt here. They toil every day under the hot sun from the months of October to June.

You can also visit some of the beautiful colonial buildings like the 18th-century palace at Dhrangadhra. You can also visit Kalaghoda to explore the rich colonial architecture and the trading post of salt for the British. Bandstand and a cricket pavilion are some of the major highlights.

Cost and Timings

The sanctuary welcomes the tourists every day from sunrise to sunset, except during monsoons. It is recommended to visit the early morning for the safari to explore wildlife at its best.

There is an entry fee charged per vehicle basis for 6 people. It costs Rs. 600 for Indians and Rs. 2600 for foreigners from Monday to Friday on weekdays. On Saturday and Sundays, the entry fee rises by 25% and 50% on national holidays like Navratri, Diwali, Christmas, New Year and Holi.

Having a guide is compulsory for visitors. So, expect to pay around Rs. 300. Camera charges are extra, i.e. Rs. 1200 for foreigners and Rs. 200 for Indians. 

The jeep safari cost is charged extra and is usually included in packages. Or you may have to pay around Rs. 3000 per vehicle.

Please Note: The Prices are subject to change do ask us for the latest prices and get your Indian Wildlife Holiday Planned to suit your requirements

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Stunning Bird Watching Paradises in Gujarat

Is chirping of birds always calls your heart to hear the songs and chatter of them and capture them on your camera? It’s time to plan your next weekend to Gujarat. This incredible state has over 600 bird species and beautiful sightings, making it a dream for wildlife photographers and birdwatchers.

Gujarat has always attracted birdwatchers with different lakes, bird sanctuaries, and national parks. You can hold back all your feelings and get mesmerized by the beautiful play by nature. There is no lack of beautiful places to go in the quest of watching birds flying in the horizon and their chattering in the dense canopy of jungles.

The Little Rann of Kutch

Well, the Kutch region itself is an exotic place to spot rare and migratory birds. The Thar Desert is also located in the Rann of Kutch where salt marsh attracts a lot of beautiful birds. Here are the regions where you can follow your passion for bird watching –

Dasada – Around 95 km from the city of Ahmedabad, Dasada is known to have various saline lakes like Kharaghoda, Nawa Taloo, and Mithaghoda, as part of Little Rann of Kutch.

Choose a vantage point around the lake and wait while the big water bodies attract the migratory birds.

Zainabad – It is also located 100 km from Ahmedabad.

Patdi

Nakhatrana

The landscape of Nakhatrana is the part of Banni Grasslands of Gujarat as well as Little Rann of Kutch. Located around 50km from Bhuj District, Nakhatrana can be visited through organized tours by local tour operators for bird watching.

Along with the birds found in Thol Bird Sanctuary, here are some other birds spotted in Nakhatrana –

Painted Sangrouse

Grey Hypocolius

Small Minivet

Common Lora

Velvador National Park

Being the wildlife sanctuary, Velvador National Park is devoted to conserving the almost-extinct Blackbuck. The national park is located around 150 km from Ahmedabad and 55 km from Bhavnagar.

However, there are some bird species you can easily spot –

Lark

Francolin

Wheatears

Sasan Gir

Also known as the Gir Forest, Sasan Gir houses the legendary Indian lions. You can easily explore a lot of wildlife species in their natural habitat. Along with several wild animals like wolves and leopards, here are some of the rare rural birds spotted in the forest –

White-browed fantail

Quails

Black-naped monarch

Pirotan Island, Jamnagar

Pirotan Island is the most popular paradise for bird watchers who visit Jamnagar. As the name suggests, Pirotan Island is truly an island accessible only through a boat. But you can spot a lot of aquatic birds like seagulls.

Bottom Line

All in all, the state of Gujarat is truly blessed with a vast coastline covered with two different gulfs. Rivers like Tapti, Narmada, and Sabarmati form great estuaries and join the Arabian Sea. These are definitely the great roosting places where you can easily spot some beautiful migratory birds.



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Walterre in all its exquisiteness

In May, when the sun is shining its brightest, we, a small group of office colleagues headed to Dehradun Valley where we stayed in a gorgeous hotel in Degradoon called Walterre. This quaint property in Dehradun is the paradise to be in, sharing its entry with Shahinabagh resort; one will immediately fall in love with this place, ideal for office offsites.

A narrow stone staircase going down to the resort amidst exotic plants gets you excited and curious to see what comes next. It opens to a tranquil garden on the right with a beautiful sitting area where we would have our evening tea and chit-chat sessions.

Here, you could see some exotic flowering plant species which made this experience more pleasing for the eyes. There was also a little Kitchen Garden right outside the Kitchen where vegetables were grown organically.

On the left, there is an entry to this charming vintage styled resort that takes you back to the colonial era. The drawing and dining are very tastefully decorated and furnished in nice old style. The decor is something to rave about. All the four rooms are adorned with a unique theme that makes the stay even more magical. On walls, you can see some vibrant painting of flora and fauna. We stayed in the gorgeous peacock suite that was an absolute delight with a spacious bathroom. A lovely sitting area on the first floor overlooking the mountain range that takes all your stress away.

At night you can see whole Mussoorie lit up at the mountaintop, looking like a whole city of lights floating in the air. The view is simply Mesmerizing, especially during the night. In the evening, one could go for strolls out there in nature. Trekking downhill through a less trodden path was an adventure in itself with some of the group member racing ahead while other straggling behind. At the end of our Trek was a creek flowing across two mountains. We took a stroll barefooted on the pebbles along the creek which was therapeutic in its own way. Walking in the cold water of the fast flowing creek was such a rejuvenating experience. During our stroll, we spotted some spectacular species of birds including the paradise flycatcher which was an absolute delight. The birds chirping was music to the ears.

At night, we were served with delicious cuisines that were just a bonus to our amazing trip.

Next morning, we got up before sunrise and went for a trek that was quite an eventful one, we started at sunrise and left the resort for trekking. We reached a point in our trek were the mountains looked serene showcasing their magnificence. When we started descending, we were stopped every few steps by some of the most spectacular bird species. All the photography enthusiast of our group stopped to get some fine clicks. We climbed down further seeing mules passing by us and reached the soothing creek again, the sound of water flowing had a very calming effect.  Throughout the trek, we kept sighting some mesmerising species of birds flying across trees swiftly making us ever alert and excited to catch a glimpse of this magnificent avifauna. Overall the trek was simply a close rendezvous with nature that revitalized us fully.

We went back to the resort where we were welcomed with mouth-watering breakfast that we thoroughly enjoyed.  Each and every experience of our trip is something to cherish about and nevertheless the lovely memories we made.  The Birders Bungalow in Dehradoon - Walltere is the place to be if you want to live in close association with nature and experience flora and fauna in its purest form.

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Rajasthan and Gujarat Bird Watching Tours

Perched in the extreme west lies two of India's culturally rich states, Rajasthan and Gujarat. If one of them is eulogized for displaying its bravery in protecting its motherland, the other has the reputation of producing successful business leaders all across the world. However, if you see these two states through the prism of a wildlife enthusiast you will unfold a new world altogether that has opened new avenues for India Birding Tours.

 

The endless stretches of sand dunes in Jaisalmer have created a protective shield across the Desert National Park. Exhibiting an excellent eco-system of the Thar Desert, the place is the last remains of the world's nearly threatened species the Great Indian Bustard. The vast open land and the spread of scrubby patches throughout the park have provided a perfect atmosphere for their survival. The park has also successfully supported the lives of Stoliczka's Bushchat, Cream-colored courser, Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, Rain Quail, Black and Grey Francolin and many more.

Amongst all the villages in Rajasthan Siana is the one that has created a special place in every birdwatcher's heart. Its arable land has been the roosting point for many sought-after Indian Birds such as White-bellied Minivet, Rock bush quail, Painted sandgrouse, Striped hyena. Moving further from here will bring you to Mount Abu, the famous hill station of Rajasthan. Here many travelers prefer to spend time boating in the serene lakes or adulating the ancient old temples carved out from the solid rock. But for a wildlife photographer, the place is an abode for birds like Green avadavat, Crested Bunting, Rock Bunting, White-naped Woodpecker, Indian scimitar babbler, Rock bush quail who are peacefully settled in the thick forest and the cultivated land of this picturesque town.

 Velavadar National Park is yet another important destination for birding in India. Although the park rose to fame for holding a significant population of Blackbucks, it is also seen as the largest roosting point of harriers in the world. The wide grassland beds serves as the hiding grounds for the francolins, quails, sandgrouse, and larks but it will not take away the charm of photographing the alluring spirit of the park.

 Gujarat in India is worldwide acknowledged for becoming the last bastion of Asiatic lions. Once upon a time, these royal cats had their presence in several parts of Asia & Europe but years of poaching have limited their presence in the small province of Sasan Gir. Although environmentalists did several rehabilitation programs for settling them in other countries all have been in vain till date. However, the status is quite the contrary in India, thanks to the government programs and conservation efforts taken by the stakeholders today these majestic lions are surging in Gir National Park. Besides big cats and other mammals, Gujarat becomes a favorite stopover amongst the migratory birds who travel all the way from the northern and western part of the world. The vast wetlands of Kutch turn into birding colonies of Greater & Lesser Flamingoes, Demoiselle Cranes, Common Pochard, Waders, Terns, Snipes of all kinds. Coastal Gujarat is crowded by many seabirds like Oystercatchers, Crab Plovers, lapwings,  painted storks during winters. These beautiful species are the testimony to the rich avian life resting in western India that has attracted birdwatchers and wildlife photographers from across the globe.

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MANGROVE BIRDING IN THE SUNDARBANS

Last year, my friends and I decided to visit the Sundarbans. My buddy Rahul grew up in Kolkata, but only got into birdwatching after he moved to Delhi, so it’s been one of his dream destinations. Of course, we were all excited to visit the famous home of the “mangrove tigers” ourselves so we decided that that was our next destination.

Our tour operator Asian Adventures  helped us plan an intensive but short birding trip, and also managed to get us a great deal on the flight tickets. Clothes, binoculars, and cameras hastily packed, we made our way from Delhi to Kolkata.

The drive to Sundarbans from Kolkata itself is great for wildlife lovers, with many stops for birding. And when we reached the riverbank, the boat was awaiting us. In a landscape dominated by waterways, the only way to access the area is by motorized boats.

The boat rides are about 4-6 hours long, depending on the water current. I would suggest keeping some light snacks just in case, especially if you’re someone who needs to eat at a particular time

On this stretch to Godkhali alone you can see six different types of kingfishers!

A few hours later, we arrived at the Sunderbans Jungle Camp on the Island of Bali. After a sumptuous lunch we proceeded to Sajnekhali – a great birding spot close to the Sunderbans  Mangrove Interpretation Center. The lush and mysterious mangrove forests are great for birding, with Brown-winged and Ruddy Kingfishers, Grey-headed Lapwings, Pallas’s Fish Eagles, Lesser Adjutants or maybe even a Mangrove Whistler lurking in the trees.

 After spending an hour or two at Sajnekhali, we returned via Sudhyanakhali Watchtower. This watchtower is where most of the tigers are sighted. There’s also a pond frequented by families of deer. Something did spook the deer, and we did catch sight of something fairly large moving through the growth, but we couldn’t tell what it was.

When we returned, we decided to dine at the boat with some music by the waters, a great relaxing moment before we went to bed.

The next day was a full-day cruise. After an early breakfast, we went to Dobanki Watchtower, renowned for having a 20-foot high enclosed canopy walk that extends for around 150m, where we had amazing sightings of Small Minivet, Black-hooded Oriole, Mangrove Whistler, Cinnamon Bittern, Swamp Francolin, and Grey-headed Fish Eagle. We even caught a fleeting glimpse of a Brown Fish Owl.

From Dobanki, we headed to Netidhopani, where we spent some time admiring the age-old excavations, as well as some wildlife wathcing from the watchtower. We saw plenty of Saltwater Crocodiles, and even a short sighting of the elusive Irrawady Dolphin!

On our third and final day at Sunderbans, we decided to get a taste of the local culture, so we went with our guide to the island village of Bali. Of course, being the enthusiastic birders that we are, we did some birding en-route. It was an interesting day, interacting with the locals to learning more about their life, that is woven around the Sunderbans. We even got to try our hand at some traditional basket-weaving. Where else could we do all this on a birdwatching tour?

The Best way to Travel to Sunderbans

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Resounding Caves And Relaxing Beaches

What is cryptic about the ancient civilization that thrived and glorified the unique history of India?

A question that was lingering in my mind the day I was introduced with the prudent lifestyle and extravagant colonies of European settlers in India history. Although both of them offer a very contradictory perspective of looking at life, however, they are the flagbearer of the amazing diversity that played an immense role in making our culture rich and vibrant. I happened to realize this during my prolific journey to Goa and parts of Maharashtra.

Chronicled around the beaches and ancient caves of India, the six nights and seven days tour was handcrafted by India's oldest tour operator which has earned the reputation of exposing the world to the unique wildlife and amazing native lives peacefully residing in the core of this overwhelmingly populous country. My journey kickstarted in one of the Mughal Empire's capital towns Aurangabad. Fringed with palatial edifices and lush green surroundings, Aurangabad is a getaway to the mesmerizing world of cave architecture that has garnered name around the world for harboring the ancient caves of Ajanta and Ellora caves, believed to be built around 2nd century B.C. The next day after an overnight stay at the Meadow Resort, I headed towards exploring these startling caverns that have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The vast precinct of Ellora caves was my first stop.

Covering an area of more than two kilometers, the place is a beautiful amalgamation of Buddhist monasteries, Jain and Hindu Temples. The intricate carving on rock temples speaks volumes about the laudable history of ancient India. While Buddhist monasteries illustrate the sermon of Lord Buddha, the Hindu temples beautifully depict gods and demigods and their various forms. My personal favorite was the artistic depiction of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva's wonderful dance form. The caves of Jain temples are smaller in as compared to Hindu and Buddhist Temples, however, this doesn't quash away the detailed carving gracefully featured in each of these caves. After spending a significant amount of time exploring the excavation of Ellora caves, I headed towards Ajanta Caves.

Spread in the form of a horseshoe, Ajanta Caves has a total of 29 caverns portraying Buddhist tradition in paintings and sculptures. It is believed that when Buddhist monks couldn't continue their travel due to heavy rain they took refuge in over here and utilized their time making incredible masterpieces inside the caves. While traversing through the region I came across many caves that depict the cycle of reincarnations of Gautam Buddha, pictorial tales of Jatakamala, and rock-cut sculptures of Buddhist deities. The day came to an end with a wonderful insight into the beautiful civilization that graced India's past. The next day I headed towards Goa, a place that is laced with silvery beaches and virgin forests of Western Ghats.

I spent one entire day exploring the beautiful old churches and basilicas built by the Portuguese during their long stay in the region. While Basilica of Bom Jesus is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for holding the finest examples of Baroque architecture and beautifully contains the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier, the Se Cathedral de Santa Catarina is considered to be the largest church in India radiating with the beauty of Portuguese- Manueline architectural style. While walking down the lanes of several other famous churches including Chapel of St Catherine, Church of St Cajetan, Nossa Senhora de Penha de Franca, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, I happened to enjoy the wonderful spectacle of Aguada Fort, and Chapora Fort standing gloriously on Sinquerim Beach and Chapora River. These forts speak volumes about the great history inherited by this considerable small yet captivating state of India.

The tour culminated in the tranquil ambiance of Mandrem beach. Basking in the sun, I was taking delight enjoying the crimson transition of the sky as the soothing waves of the beach were wetting my legs with its salty water.

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