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Relax

Facts you would not know about Machli; the Royal Tigress of Ranthambore

Machli, the queen of Ranthambore was known so, because of a fish-like mark on the left side of her face. Machli was 20-year-old tigress and that made her world’s oldest tigress.She boasted of being one of the most photographed tigeress in the world.

This tigress was the mother of over 50 per cent of all the tigers and tigresses in the park and is responsible for around Rs.65 crore per annum business for the national park.

She was also known as the “lady of the lake” since she loved spending most of her time around water bodies, and some time ago, had a fierce encounter with 14 feet long crocodile, during which she lost her teeth.

Popularly known as ‘grandmother of Ranthambore, she is most popular amongst the wildlife lovers, naturalists, and TV channels. Be it national geographic, or Animal planet or BBC world, her 50 min documentary titled “Queen of Tigers” became very popular.

For her exemplary contribution to tourism , The Indian government issued a commemorative postal cover and stamp to honor the tigress and also been bestowed with TOFT lifetime achievement award.

She truly lived the life king size!!

Categories
Adventure Himalayas Rejuvenate

Hidden gem of Himalayas- Prashar Lake

Located at a distance of about 40 km from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi village, the Prashar Lake lies at an altitude of 2730 m above sea level.  It has a floating island and the depth of the lake has not been determined yet.  A Pagoda style temple was built near it, in the 13th century and is dedicated to sage Prashar who is believed to have meditated at the place. One remarkable thing about the temple is that it is entirely made up of just one Deodar tree. Its sinuous carvings of snakes and other animals augment its splendour. A lot of natives and people from around the globe arrive here during the yearly festival of the temple that is held in June. Some peaceful time can be spent at this place, away from the human habitation and its aura will start blending with your soul.

The trek to Prashar Lake is a pleasant one. It is not very famous but is slowly gaining popularity among people. The 6-7 km trek starts from Baagi Village. The initial 1.5 km runs along a local rivulet but the real hike starts after that only. En route, you will come across a Shiva trident. It is better to keep cross – checking with people whom you meet on the way, to make sure that you are moving on the right track. The directions are not properly marked so one has to be careful. You will find horses and cows on the way and the views of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar and Kinnaur mountain ranges are amazing. The path becomes slippery when it rains.

Once you reach the top, you will start feeling rejuvenated. The pollution- free air of the hills will boost up your energy and stamina making you feel revitalised. At some occasions, clouds welcome the hikers too!

Accommodation options include the PWD and Forest Department Rest Houses but it is recommended to book rooms in these two from beforehand only to be assured of their availability. When you fail to do so, you might be allowed to stay in the Prashar Mandir’s premises as well.

Making Parashar Lake as your base camp, you can try to go further on a 12 km trek to Tunga Mata temple which is located above it. This trail comprises a steep climb on the mountain ridge situated behind the lake and on the way back, you can visit some idiosyncratic places near the lake such as Shikhari Devi temple, Chindi, Pandoh, Kamru Nag Lake & Temple and Barot.

In a nutshell, Parashar Lake is a good option if you have time for only 2-3 days and want a religious as well as an adventurous trip. The journey is quite refreshing and the locals very amiable. So get ready to explore this destination!

Categories
Hotel Reviews Rejoice Staycation

A day at Thakran Farms- Getting Close to Nature

Built on over 19 acres of lush green land, situated at a distance of 2 hrs drive from the buzzing city of Gurgaon, Thakran farms is a supposedly good way to get close to nature and spending day with family.

Well decorated cottages, all made of mud.

Inside paintings in the room  

We were welcomed by the owners Mr. Nakul, who acts as perfect host during your entire stay. The place simply distracts you from the noisy, polluted capital city of NCR and provides lush green surroundings. What I liked about the place is the beautiful mud huts. Interiors were pretty and rustic. Tube-well bath, mud bath, tractor ride, camel ride are the highlights of activities. Archery, Dart Shooting, Volley Ball, Badminton, Croquet, Soccer, Cricket, Sling Shot, Air Gun, Croquet, Wooden Bowling, Ball-Glass shooting are some of the outdoor sports that one can play and enjoy.  However, after an hour you are done with all and wonder what to do next. The lunch served to us was also in line with the theme of the farm. It included simple Dal, chulha roti and salad and it reminded of my childhood days. However, the quality of food was not up to the mark. Even snacks were not great. Simple pakodas offerings and chutneys were stale. Lunch could have been much better. I strongly feel the place is overly priced and need to evolve more especially in terms of quality and bringing life to the place. There is still a scope of inclusion of more activities and someone who can take you through them.   If you are tired and wish to spend the weekend here, you can opt for their beautiful AC mud huts, which will remind you of ancient village days and can force you to be nostalgic.

Activities at the farm, wherein one can unwind themselves.

Exploring how Rotis are cooked in Indian villages

Categories
Rejoice

Enthralling historical city & the gateway to India’s most flamboyant state-Pink City Jaipur

About the Place:Jaipur is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan in Northern India. Known as the Pink City because of the colour of the stone used exclusively in the walled city, Jaipur’s bazaars sell embroidered leather shoes, blue pottery, tie and dye scarves and other exotic wares. Western Rajasthan itself forms a convenient circuit, in the heart of the Thar desert which has shaped its history, lifestyles, and architecture.

Must See places:City palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal,  Jaigarh fort, Amer, Nahargarh fort, Central Museum, market. This place reflects beauty.

Good Time to Travel:The best time to visit this place is between October and March. Since the weather is pleasant during these months, that allows one to explore more of this place without getting scorched in the seething heat.This city of Rajputs is well known for its fairs and fests that are held on a grand level. The festivals include kite festival, camel festival, teej, gangaur, elephant festival, to name a few. The city witnesses maximum tourists during these days. To add on to its liveliness, this place has brilliant bazaars filled with bright turbans and ethnic attire, hand-dyed and embroidered textiles, pretty jewellery and delicious food.

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