Category: Spiritual Hubs

Categories
Adventure Asia Himalayas Spiritual Hubs Treks

Everything you would like to know about Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Mythological Importance:

The Tiger’s Nest is another name of Paro Taktsang or Taktsang Palphug Monastery. It is a sacred temple of the Buddhists that was built in 1692 in Bhutan, around the Taktsang Senge Samdup Cave. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava had meditated in these caves for three years, three months, three weeks, three days and three hours in the 8th century. Today, Paro Taktsang is famous for the 13 ‘tiger lair’ caves in which he had meditated.

A temple which is devoted to Padmasambhava (also known as the Temple of the Guru with Eight Names) is a classic structure built around the cave by Tenzin Rabgye in 1692. Therefore, it is Bhutan’s cultural icon.

According to legends, Guru Padmasambhava came here from Tibet, on a tigress’ back from Khenpajong.

There is also an alternative story by another legend that stated that the former wife of the emperor Yesh Tsogyal willingly became the disciple of Guru Padmasambhava. She transformed into a tigress and carried him on her back. Consequently, the place came to be known as the ‘Tigers Nest’.

It is also believed that Tenzin Rabgye, the builder of the monastery in 1692, was the reincarnation of the Guru Padmasambhava.

How to reach the Tiger Nest Monastery?

The Monastery is 10 km to the north of Paro in Bhutan, at an elevation of about 10,000 ft. You can reach the Tiger’s Nest by walking or on horseback. It is a quite challenging trek, you gain merit with every step but the view of the Paro Valley from the monastery is worth the endeavor. The trek starts from the valley floor which is at about 7000 ft and it takes about 2-3 hours (on an average) to complete the hike. It starts with slow climbs into serene pine forests where you will find water- powered pray wheels and flags. It is said these are for trekkers to be bestowed upon with power and stamina to complete the forthcoming journey. From here onwards, the climb becomes steep, arduous and steady up to a ridge. Horse- ride is only allowed till the second viewpoint due to some accidents that took place in the past.Once you reach the monastery you will find the atmosphere to have become mystical; you will find a deep sense of calmness and peace. Also, you should seek blessings from the monks. It is the true feeling of being a pilgrim!

Travel Notes:

  • Wear hiking shoes and it is better to wear thick socks as you have to remove your shoes at the entry.
  • Bring your hiking poles. If you forget, you can buy a wooden walking stick at the parking lot.
  • Bring your rain gear as the weather is unpredictable.
  • The hike should be done at the end of your trip to give you more time to acclimatize to the altitude.
  • Walk at a steady pace and avoid walking fast and resting too much.
  • It is recommended to start the hike early in the morning.

So get set and go to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan if you want to have an adventurous cum religious trip!

Categories
Spiritual Hubs

Why Hampi should be in your travel list while in Bangalore

Located in the northern part of Karnataka, Hampi is a temple town accoladed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is placed within the relics of the Vijayanagar city of the Vijayanagar Empire. Being on the way to Goa, it attracts a lot of visitors and is a perfect blend of natural as well as cultural beauty. To make the most of your visit to the place, we have made a list of unconventional things that can be done in Hampi.

Visit the lesser known ruins

The Virupaksha Temple and the Vittala Temple are the sites which everybody knows about but if you really want to have an authentic flavour of the 15th Century town, you will have to go beyond what is easily accessible. For that, you can tread in the middle of the ruins and explore the unconventional sites too.

Take a coracle ride

A coracle is a small, round and light- weighted boat which looks like a big basket and can accommodate 6 to 8 persons at a time. Boating in it is a fun way to check out the Tungabhadra River.

Rock Climbing

The rocky terrain of Hampi, mostly comprising granite crags and boulders of varied sizes of 4 m to 60 m in height offers easy, moderate and difficult options for rock climbers to surmount. The topography is suitable for amateurs as well as experts in rock climbing and several organisations arrange camps in Hampi for the same.

Cycling

The roads of Hampi are made for cycling and you can find cycles, scooters, and mopeds to rent in all corners of the town. Moreover, cycling is an excellent option to explore the ruins of the place easily.

Trekking

The ruins of the town have a rocky terrain as well as several small and large rocky hills that are ultimate for hiking. Kampa Bhupa’s Path here is one of the amazing trekking routes that do not include steep climbing. The Matanga Hill trek, the Malyavanta Hill trek, the Anjaneya Hill trek and the Hemakuta Hill trek are some of the other popular trekking routes. While trekking you will witness the spectacular views of Hampi’s natural beauty.

Cherish some waterfalls

During monsoons, a few waterfalls come into action in Hampi. Waterfalls and rivulets start flowing everywhere in the rainy season and are a sight to behold. If not able to get hold of waterfalls, enjoy the best sunset around.

Go across the river to the Hippie Island

This is reachable only when it does not shower so if you are lucky enough to not have rains, do visit the Hippie Island. The island is more peaceful comparatively and has cheaper accommodation options.

So next time when you visit Hampi, apart from going to the  Hampi Bazaar, Virupaksha Temple, Monolithic Bull, Hazara Rama Temple, Achyut Raya temple,  Vithala Temple, indulge yourself in the above-mentioned things also!

Categories
Adventure Beaches Corporate Outings Spiritual Hubs

Gokarna – The little picturesque town

Located right in the heart of Karnataka, Gokarna is one little temple town renowned for its picturesque rocky beaches, hills, and natural beauty soaked in religious traditions. The town is also an essential pilgrimage centre for the devotees of Hindu religion who pay a visit to this place from all over India and other countries through the year. The name of the place literally translates to ‘Cow’s Ear’, the holiest animal for Hindus.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Gokarna is the Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is about 140 km away. The nearest railway station is at Ankola, approximately 20 km.

The place is also well connected by a network of roads. The KSRTC buses ply frequently from Bengaluru, Mangalore, Hubli, and many other cities of Karnataka.

Places To See

Om Beach

The beach derived its name from its shape, which at the bird’s eye view forms a majestic ‘OM’. One of the most popular destinations in Gokarna, you should not miss this Beach for all the cool fun it packs. There are tonnes of water sports and other activities such as jet-skiing to enjoy. The beach is surrounded by a variety of Cafes and Shacks where you can enjoy some delicious foods.

Half-Moon Beach

Half-moon beach is approximately a kilometre hike from Om Beach. The beach is a potpourri of exotic locales and sparkling water world. It is normally less crowded than Om Beach and thus gives you ample opportunity to explore the place in detail.

Mahabaleshvara Temple- Dedicated to lord Mahabaleshwar, it is one of the oldest temple here and the main pilgrim site. It is said to be next in sanctity to the one and only Vishwanath Siva Temple in Varanasi. Thus, it is often regarded as ‘The Kashi of the South’.

Maha Ganpati Temple- According to the local Brahmins, the statue of Ganapati at Maha Ganpati Temple was made in the beginning of Dwapara Yuga i.e. much before the birth of Lord Krishna. The locals here believe that the Shiva temple should be visited only after first visiting the Ganesha temple.

Koti Tirtha- The name Koti Tirtha literally means – a thousand springs.  Located in Gokarna, at walking distance from the Mahabaleshwara Temple, Koti Tirtha happens to be one of the most sacred water resources where pilgrims take a bath. The importance of the lake stems from the fact that this sacred water source is a freshwater lake, fed by springs, though in such close proximity to the sea.

Mirjan Fort- Mirjan fort is a grand monument in Gokarna which serves mostly the history enthusiasts among the tourists. However, even if you aren’t a history buff, the place still remains a wonderful place to not miss.

There is the bouquet of activities that you won’t mind trying while being here.

Beach Trekking

There are five popular beaches in Gokarna. One of the best ways to explore the beauty of the place and know it from inside out is trekking along the beaches that are separated by rocky hills. Unfold the beauty of the surroundings and add the fun and excitement of trekking along the beach.

Offer Prayers in the Temples

Gorkana is originally a temple town. It is full of temples rich in history and religious values. One of the most popular temples is Mahabaleshwar Temple. The Deity of these temples is more than 1500 years old. Some other temples to visit are Ganapati Temple, Aadi Gokarneshwara Temple,  Koti Teertha among others.

Indulge in Water Sports

Your trip to any beach is incomplete if you don’t indulge water sports fun. Gokarna is a heaven for those who love waters sports and fun. Indulge in sports such as Jet-Skiing among, parasailing, banana boat rides, snorkelling or kayaking.

Places to Eat

One of the best ways to know a destination is to its food. There are some of the most exotic Cafes, Shacks, and Restaurants on the beaches. Indulge in local delicacies and be a foodie for a good reason.

The restaurants such as Shree Shakti, Pai hotel and Pritish love cafe along with the snack stalls on the beaches are appealing to everyone. However, being a pilgrim place, do not expect it to offer the nonvegetarian food.

Best time to visit

The place is full of tourists almost every time a year, so there is no specific time in a year which you must wait in order to book your tickets. But summers are the time when everybody starts getting ready for the beaches and hence, the time around it may make you struggle to book the places to stay.

Stay

Among the many, there are a few good places such as Namaste Sanjivani, Hotel Shivaprasad and the Namaste Yoga farm where you could have a great comfortable stay.

It’s going to be good fun while being at Gokarna!! An idyllic getaway for Banglorians.

Categories
Spiritual Hubs

Formerly known as Mrigadava, Sarnath is a must visit sacred destination

 Overview

Situated near the holy confluence of Ganges and Gomati rivers, Sarnath still has celestial traces of Gautam Buddha who for the first time preached Dharma in the city. This place in the heart of the Varanasi reflects enlightenment in every essence. Thousands of tourists from across the world visit this holy pilgrimage site to pay their tribute to Shreyansanath, the eleventh Tirthanakara of Jainism. Some of the major attractions in Sarnath include Tibetan Temple, Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Archeological and Excavation Area, Archeological Museum, and Thai Temple among others.

How to reach

The nearest airport is Varanasi Airport (VNS). Varanasi is well connected via train, flights across India.Sarnath is around 9 kms away from Varanasi airport. Here is the list of items you shouldn’t mind visiting whilst you are at Sarnath

Chaukhandi Stupa

Built in 5th century by the Gupta dynasty, Chaukhandi Stupa is a Buddhist stupa that was developed in the memory of the Lord Buddha who preached Dharma in the city. The stupa also depicts the Lord Buddha’s meeting with his disciples.

Thai Temple

Developed by Thai Buddhist monks, Thai Temple is one of the major attractions in Sarnath. It is surrounded by a variety of beautiful gardens. It’s Thai style architecture helps its stand out from other attractions in the city of Dharma and Enlightenment.

Archaeological and Excavation Area

This particular area in the holy city of Sarnath is renowned for Buddhist relics that according to historians date back to 250 BC to 12th century AD. Tourists can find traces of old Buddhist monasteries. There is also a Jain temple in this area.

Ramnagar

Situated some 15 kms away from Sarnath, Ramnagar is one of the most popular attractions renowned for its Fort Museum. The museum hosts a range of royal collections such as ivory work, royal armour, vintage cars, and royal palanquins among others.

Deer Park

Deer park is where the Lord Buddha started teaching about Dharma. The place holds historical significant for being the place where Sangha was originated. The Lord Buddha also taught Anattalakhana Sutta at this spot.

Dhammek Stupa

This Stupa was built during the Maurya Dynasty. It is one of the most popular attractions in Sarnath. It is built of brick and stone and is about 43.6 m in height and 28 m in diameter.

The statue of standing Buddha

Apart from visiting other major attractions, Sarnath is famous for the statue of Buddha that is believed to be the tallest in the world. It is situated in Thai Buddha Vihar.

Visit the Lion Capital atop Ashoka Pillar

The great Ashoka visited Sarnath around 234 BC and constructed Ashoka pillar. On top of this pillar sits the Lion Capital that has become the national symbol of the country. You must pay a visit to this historical significant without which your journey to Sarnath is incomplete.

Restaurant and food

Just like its major attractions, Sarnath is popular for its ideal food culture. Some of the best places to eat in Sarnath are as follows:

Pizzeria Vatica Café

It is an ideal place for those who want to break their daily routine of eating Indian dishes. It serves delicious vegetarian Pizzas.

The Great Kebab Factory

It is a heaven for non-vegetarian food fans. However, there is no dearth of delicious vegetarian options here.

Brown Bread Bakery

You must visit this bakery if you want to indulge a little on mouthwatering pastries, breads, rolls, pizzas, and burgers.

Places to stay

  • The Gateway Hotel Ganges Varanasi
  • Hotel Surabhi International
  • Radisson Hotel Varanasi

Shopping

Sarnath is renowned for selling wide varieties of artefacts and statues of Buddha. One can find every kind of sculpture of Buddha in Sarnath that one wishes to buy. The market of Sarnath is a significant place only for the souvenirs of Buddha and one should not expect any fancy items here.

Sarnath is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage places and a popular tourist destination in India which makes it a worth visit.

Categories
Festival Spiritual Hubs

Durga Puja – A photographer’s delight

A photographer would look for different visions and colorful environment to capture an image. Apart from a regular and routine street and its activities, it is important to have a colorful set of people celebrating and rejoicing to have a perfect and mind blowing image. It is a dream come true for every photographer to capture the moments of the Durga Pooja in Kolkata.

What is Durga Puja?

The Durga Puja is one of the most popular festivals in India and one of the most celebrated ones in West Bengal. The festival is celebrated for 9 nights and 10 days. It is believed that the goddess Durga takes 9 different forms to destroy evil people and forces. There will be a procession on all 9 nights with different kinds of decorations.

Chokkhu Daan, when eyes of Goddess Durga are painted

Chokkhu Daan is usually held a week before Navratri and people believe that goddess Durga would be stepping on the Earth on that day. Potters locality or Kumartuli is the place, where all the idols would be made including the paintings. The streets would be filled with idols without the eyes being painted, the entire day is set only to paint the eyes and it is an important ritual in the city.

Photographers would have a better opportunity to see those idols come to life. The entire street is filled with goddess idols and most of these idols are transported to the rest of the state. Every photographer would love to capture the view of the street filled with goddess idols with and without the eyes. It is wonderful to capture the movement of the potters, who are efficient and quick in painting the eyes.

The procession and the celebration around the chariot

Most of the streets in the city would be filled with people because of the procession. A procession will have different things to look at like music, dance, prayers and the decoration. Every day has its specialty and different kinds of decoration can be witnessed.

Photographers would have a wonderful time in capturing different activities during every procession in the city. Capturing the moments of dancers and prayers will be an additional pleasure, as you get to see a lot of people who would be performing this.

Dashami – The last day of the festival

As the festival is all about 10 days and 9 nights, the final day will be celebrated grandly by immersing the goddess idol in water.  It is believed that the goddess comes to earth for 10 days to destroy the evil force and leaves after a grand victory over evil.      Photographers get to capture every moment of the idols being immersed in water. On the tenth day, a photographer gets to watch many idols being immersed in the same place after a grand procession. Babu Ghat in Kolkata is one of the popular places to watch out for this moment, as a number of immersions take place.

 

Categories
Adventure Himalayas Itinerary Relax Spiritual Hubs Travel Trends

Must Do’s at Tawang

Located in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is one of the most picturesque places in north-east. What makes is more beautiful is the variety of scenic landscapes you get to witness during your journey. Color, landscape changes with every curve.  From Bright yellow mustard fields merging with orchids that suddenly morph into dense forests and then to snow clad mountains. “Journeys are more important than destination”- this holds true for road trip to Tawang. Surrounded by Tibet to its north, Sela range of West Kameng to the east and Bhutan in the southwest direction in itself makes it a surreal place. Though you will be rewarded by stunning waterfalls, mesmerizing valleys, here is my quick Must-visits, while you in Tawang.

Sela Pass

Situated at the height of 13,714 ft above mean sea level, Sela pass connects Tawang to Tezpur and Guwahati and one of the highest motorable pass in the world. On the way to Sela pass is Paradise Lake. While summers at Sela Pass are not very cold, but temperature goes to as low as -10 degree in winters. The place is rightly called as “heaven on earth” due to its breathtaking views.

Tawang Monastery

As the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tawang boasts of being the holy site for Tibetan Buddhists and a prominent center for Gelug or Gelugpa, the pre-eminent Buddhist school in Tibet. This monastery is the 2nd largest in Asia & largest in Asia, and one of the oldest monasteries as well. It is also known as Golden Namgyal Lhatse . The story behind the monastery is interesting. It is believed that Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso, could not find a suitable place for monastery, so he decided to pray for guidance. When he opened his eyes, he found his horse was on the top of hill, where present day monastery is there. It is the main venue of Torgva festival. Several manuscripts, religious books can be found in the place.

Gorichen Peak

Located at a distance of 160 Kms of Tawang, this peak has religious sentiments attached to it. It is also known as Sa-Nga Phu, which literally means the Kingdom of Deity, and is assumed that it protects the place from evils. Place is hikers’ paradise. The entire trek journey is amazing and adventurous. Once you are at the peak, the entire journey seems worth because of the splendid views.

Shonga-tser Lake

Alternatively known as Madhuri Lake, is located at a distance of 40Kms from Tawang. It is the best example of how nature changes the landscapes. It is the resultant of a massive earthquake, which was otherwise grassland for local cattle. Lake is highly photogenic and boasts of being photographer’s delight. Stroll around the lake is indeed soulful and enticing.

Nuranang Waterfalls

Located 40 Kms away from Tawang, this is another spectacular waterfall, which you will not like to miss. Known as Jang falls, due to its proximity to Jang, small township between Tawang & Bomdila..There is a Hydel power station nearby, which can be visited. River Rafting can be done in summers. For SRK fans, this is the place where Koyala was shot.

Pankang Teng Tso Lake

Surrounded by the Himalayas, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, also called as Ptso Lake is situated 17 km from Tawang. It’s all about the nature that speaks at the lake. It is frozen almost half of the year and is good ground for skiing. Calm water, moving clouds, grazing animals, all look like scenery which can be painted only in mind. Place is highly recommended for all nature shooters.

Jaswant Garh

Built in the memory of Paramvir Chakra recipient Jaswant Singh, it is a must visit place. It is believed, he still protects the Indo-China border. Apparently, he fought for 72 hrs alone during Indo-China war in 1962 and is duly respected within Indian and Chinese army fraternity.

Tawang is one place, which will always refresh you from the city buzz and offers the nature at its best. This summer, don’t wait!! Just pack your bags and go to Tawang.

 

Categories
Adventure Himalayas Rejoice Relax Spiritual Hubs Travel Trends

5 Safest places to travel solo for women in North India

#travelsolo, is the upcoming buzzword in female fraternity. Unless one takes the plunge, issues like security etc are on their mind. But let’s face the fact that not all places are same, and one should not miss the incredible India because of our assumed apprehensions.
1. Nainital, Uttarakhand:
Nanital is a lake district of Uttrakhand. Its beauty lies in the warm people who made you feel comfortable with their smiles. It has several mythological stories attached to itself. Niani lake is the prime attraction, whereas you would not like to miss on Bhimtal, Khurpatal and Sattal. Place is well connected via motorable roads with important destinations across India. It is just 9 Hrs drive from Delhi.
Quick To-Do’s
• Trek to China Peak
• Shop at Tibetan Market
• Take a Boat Ride at Naini Lake
• Go for Horse Riding
• Take a Cable Car Ride to Snow View
• Eat Sonam’s Momos
• Sip on the Coffee by Lake Side with a book
• Visit Balram Heritage Hotel
2. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh:

Khajuraho, the UNESCO world heritage site always reminds us of erotic temples, is indeed beautiful and great place for solo female traveler. Winter is a good season to explore the place. It is well-connected to roads and Khajuraho airport. Lakshmana Temple, Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Old Village, Lakshmi Temple, Matangeshwar Mahadev Temple, Parshwanath Temple, Lord Mahavira Temple and Adinath Temple are major attractions of the place.
Quick To Do’s
• Shopping at Shilpgram and Mrigyananni
• Visit to temples to witness exemplary carvings
• Coffee at Raja’s Café
• Sound & Light Show at Western Group of Temples
• Yoga Sessions at Yoga Meditation Centre
• Visit to Archaeological Mueseum
• Visit to Panna National Park
3. Udaipur, Rajasthan:
Udaipur is highly hospitable city and is a place known for its maginificence and elegance. Place is surrounded by beautiful lakes. People within the city make it easy for you to travel solo. September to March is the best season to be here. It is around 700 Kms away from Delhi and can be drove easily overnight, if you enjoy roadtrips.
Quick to Do’s:
• Shop in Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Rajasthali, Sadhana Emporium
• Go for Sunset Point
• Visit to Udaipur lake Palace
• Visit Udaipur Solar Observatory
• Other Major attractions around the place includes City Palace, Lake Pichola, Ahar Museum, Sajjan Garh/ Monsoon Palace, Bagore ki Haveli, Sunset Point & Machla Magra, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyo ki Bari and Jag Mandir

4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Varanasi in itself is an experience. It is an amalgam of culture, colors and spirituality. Though the general notion about the place is, it is unsafe due to crowd, but if you make sure what to say and what not, you can surely make your way out and come with mesmerizing experience for lifetime. It is one of the holiest cities for Hindus and you can easily fly to the place.
Quick to Do:
• Take a walking tour
• Evening Aarti at Ghats
• Visit to Vishwanath Temple, Durga Temple, Bharat Mata temple
• Apple Pie at Pizzeria Vatika café
• Silk Shopping at Baba Blacksheep
• Meal at Brown Bread Bakery
• Boat Trip at Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat during dawn.

5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand:
Rishikesh is termed as the yoga capital of India. If you are looking for peace and tranquility and some adventure at the same time, this is the place to be. Place is overnight drive from Delhi.

Quick to Do’s :
• White Water Rafting
• Fox-flying
• Bungee Jumping
• Cliff Jumping
• Eat at Little Buddha Café
• Have Coffee at Devraj Coffee Corner
• Practice Yoga
• Camping by the River and watch the moon
• Other Attaractions include Swarg Niwas Temple, Shri Trayanbakshwar Temple, Swarg Ashram, Lakshman Jhula, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Asharam, Neelkantha Mahadev Temple.
Note: Though all the above places have been visited by author herself, but would request you to dress appropriately to avoid unnecessary attention and just be polite to the locals to have lifetime memories.
Hola!! Where are you vacationing next?

Exit mobile version