Journey is Life

Bhutan is a happy country, not because people are rich.But they are contended.Unlike most of us in the mega cities, they have not lost their inner life.They are calm, charming and peaceful by nature. Many of the regions of Bhutan are still untouched by the mad rush of modern life.
Few of the faces and moods I liked are here for you

Little girl lost within herself in Sobsoka Village in Bhutan

Bhutanese monk begger..He was chanting something and people were giving him alms

She was all dressed up and on her way to attend Tschue.. Her mom was talking to somebody. She was leaning to the pole as if she was posing.

Women from Laya region of Bhutan. They dress up differently. She even offered her head gear for me to take my pic :-)

A father with his 2 little girls in Punakha Tschue

Watching dance ...

It was rice... rice..and rice for all the days I stayed in Bhutan. Look at my couple of meals..

Low calories food...Ema Datshi is next to noodles

First day wanted to try authentic Bhutanese meal. So I went to a restaurant called Authentic Bhutanese restaurant. They served - sea weed soup, rice, black wheat noodles, spinach , potato fry and Ema datshi. Except Ema datshi ( very spicy) nothing was tasty. Ema datshi ( chilli cheese)is kind of their national food. They make potato datshi, mixed vegetable datshi and mushroom datshi. I was served with thick one as well as thin one. I was told authentically it is prepared using yak cheese.

Yak Cheese from market

But in hotels they use any other cheese from super market. Their market is dominated by chilli. Chilli is a main vegetable for them. During my Sunday vegetable market walk saw everybody carrying atleast a kg of chilli in their hands.

Chilli chilli everywhere !!!..

Next day similar meals but they were tasty and price was less than the first one.Typically in all the buffet they have one non veg item. Rest all are couple of vegetables with rice. Being a vegetarian I was not finding protein source in any of my meals. When lentil soup was served in couple of dinners I was very happy to get protein intake.

I didn’t see dessert being part of their meals. Everywhere I was asking for desert but was told NO. I was wondering what do they serve if they have guests. Lal ( My guide for 2 days) told me that they serve same food. Though I found couple of sweet and snacks shop, it was all from India. Didn’t find anything as Bhutanese sweets.

Curd is something absolutely missing in their food. In fact, it wasn’t available in menu even in Indian restaurants. I had good curd rice the moment i reached home :-) My craving taste buds were fully satisfied :-)

Most of the Bhutanese eat non veg. But here is a tricky point. They want to eat. But don’t want slaughtering. So, they import non meat from India. In a way import of non violence .... :-) :-)

'We believe that be happy with what you have. Don't desire more than what you have. Because desire has no destination.'
This is what I heard from drivers, guides and even hotel staff when I initiated conversation about the world famous happiness index of Bhutan.
Bhutan's growth is measured by Gross National Happiness Index (GNHI) instead of GDP. It was introduced by their 4th King-Jigme Singye Wangchuckin 1972. Over the years it has been criticized as well as well received and has been spoken a lot in global level. Obviously, this idea has its origin from their Buddhist philosophy. They believe material and spiritual growth should happen hand in hand.
I was wondering how do they measure GNHI. I was told they take a survey of Bhutanese people based on their cultural, economical, environmental, mental, physical and political wellness.
GNHI has 4 pillars
1.Promotion of sustainable development
2.Promotion of cultural values
3.Good governace and
4. Conservation of natural environment

I could see their honest efforts in all these areas. Recently they have integrated GNHI principles into their education system.

I saw a lot of construction activity happening in Thimpu. It is a part of the development to expand Thimpu till Paro. I didn't hear common people appreciating this. They were concerned about their city entering into too much of hustle bustle and loose its identity and calmness.This clearly shows their concern to protect their environment and culture. At the same time they can't ignore growth.
I was wondering how do they balance. I was reading in their newspaper about rising cost of living and many other challenges they are facing including vulnerable climate in addition to other environmental and social pressures.

Does GNHI really work ???? No idea...

Two hearty laughter memories which left a deep impression in me echoing their efforts towards happiness and sustainability...

This boy in phobjikha valley was playing with a stick. He was so joyfully playing I kept watching him. When he realized I am watching him, he played even more merrily.He appeared to me like an embodiment of happiness.

Then there were 4 boys in Wangdue valley.They were on their way back home from school. I guess they had bought ice candy on the way. Making themselves comfortable on the wooden bench beside the road, they were about to eat. Look at their expression!!! I just liked it ...

When they saw me taking pictures they burst out with laughter loudly especially first two.It's still echoing in my ears. It was music to my ears and manifestation of happiness to my eyes.

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” - Mahatma Gandhi

It was a lazy sunny Friday.All shops were closed due to holiday for Good Friday. All roads were leading to beaches.

When we reached Manly beach, it was a delightful view to watch skywriting in the sky. I was witnessing skywriting for the first time. There was a big heart symbol in the sky along with few more symbols. aircraft was rewriting on it. Somebody was proposing I think…

For those who are new to Skywriting – It is an aerial advertisement. An Aircraft would be hired to write in the sky using some form of smoke. Generally it is used for advertising .Romantic people with deep pockets use it to express their love or even to ask sorry. Imagine your beloved proposing to you right above your head in the sky !!!! Isn’t it a Wow moment !!

Manly beach is 10 -11 kms from Harbour bridge. It is Sydney’s popular destination and surfer’s paradise. It was a holiday. Beach was packed with locals and tourists. Locals taking sun bath on a nice sunny day after a week of gloomy weather.

Prince William and Kate’s visit was scheduled for that afternoon to Manly beach.Beach was already full of people waiting with excitement to meet Duke and duchess of Cambridge.Some were carrying teddy bear to give it to baby prince. There were cut outs of William and Kate, wedding souveniers, collages of their married life. Excitement was there in the air and people were busy in reserving their place. They had come with food and even seating arrangements.

Took a walk along the beach. It was a fantastic view with shades of blue hitting the shore. I appreciate the way they maintain the beaches. I was told that everyday they clean their beaches. Its is worth paying heavy taxes.

Police were increasing minute by minute. I was afraid I might miss my flight if I stay there for long with the increasing traffic. Hence, we left to another beautiful beach called Balmoral beach.

Balmoral beach is located in an expensive suburb Mosman. Posh houses amidst greenery overlooking blue beach. No wonder real estate value is so high in the sky. It is a calm beach. Unlike Manly it was not crowded with tourists. Yachts were spread across the shore like ornaments to the sea All owned by rich localities’.

Probably it is not a major tourist place. But locals were enjoying their weekend with barbeque picnic in the garden next to the beach.

This beach was not good for surfing but a great swimming location. Even kids were diving in this safe beach. There is a small esplanade adjacent to this beach. I could have sat there for hours enjoying the spectacular view and soothing blue water. But it was time up to reach airport. Had to leave blue water, yachts and white sand behind to fly back home.

Standing in chest deep muddy water in the narrow cave surrounded by 1000s of people, I wonder do I go back home or will I be in next day’s newspaper as a victim of stampede! I was inside the Narasimha Jharani temple in Bidar.

For me, Bidar was an unexciting place with unbearable heat. Bidar is a district located in northern part of Karnataka with Bidar city as its headquarters. I wouldn’t have visited Bidar but for my colleague's wedding.Sometimes few things happen for good.Once I entered Bidar, it didn’t take much time to realize that I was wrong about my opinion on Bidar.

Bidar has got so much to offer to a wandering soul.Forts,Tombs, Domes,Temples and more. Narasimha Jharani temple is an interesting unique place. Jharani means stream of water. I was told that it is a temple inside the cave. That is not something new in India.

The world itself is a dark cave resting in the womb of the lord, is an old Hindu mythological saying.It is called deva garbha. But again the creative human mind made its own concept of deva and devis to give many manifestations with different stories. Similarly, the temple structures have many architectural manifestations and wonderful legends.

Narasimha Jharani is joust not a temple inside the cave but you need to wade through the water for little over 300-350 meters to get darshana of Narasimhaswamy. He is accompanied by Shiva Linga.

Starting point of the cave. Crowd started after few steps

As expected there is a legend behind this. Narasimha is an avatara of Lord Vishnu. He killed Hiranyakashipu, to fulfill the purpose of his avatara. After killing Hiranyakashipu, he had another duty to complete to kill demon Jalasura. Jalasura was a devotee of Shiva and he went inside the cave where he was killed by Narasimha. Jalasura took the form of jala(water) and started flowing out of the cave. Just before taking his last breath Jalasura requested Narasimha to stay inside the cave. Narasimha agreed. Hence you find both the deities here. The water originates from the unknown spring and flows throughout the year.

It is a symbolic story.Where there is godliness there can’t be asuric forces.So jalasura the asuric energy has to go out is what I interpret.

Along with the wedding ceremony to attend, we had kept one day for sightseeing. When we heard about this place we were enthusiastic to see the cave.

When we reached there by 11 am, it was crowded. That was a special day of chaitrapoornima ( Special full moon day in spring). It was supposed to be very auspicious day to visit this temple. There was a big queue before entering the cave. We were wondering whether to get in or go back. Finally, decided to enter as we were curious to see the cave.

It was a hot midday.Least we knew what was waiting for us inside. It took a while to get in. Cave starts here. Width of the cave is about 1.8mt. Height is also less. Bats were hanging in the roof.. Very few tube lights to throw some light. There were ducts laid to bring fresh air in. Within few seconds we were walking in chest deep water. It was a brown muddy water. As we waded through water for few steps it was chaotic. That 1.8 mt path was the only way to come in and go out of the cave.

Bats hanging to the roof of the cave

We were trapped. Couldn’t go back nor could go inside. After few minutes we started moving inch by inch for couple of hours standing in the queue. There was no network to call anyone. There was tension in the air.We could see mob psychology which could burst any time.As always it is clueless. I realized how stampede happens in religious places. Most of us were not carrying our cell phones and camera. Hence all the pictures posted here were taken by my colleague Vittal. He managed to carry his camera.

Devotees...Look at the width of the tunnel cave .

We finally reached the end of the cave where the swayambhu idol of lord Narasimha is worshipped. It is believed to be not a creation of an artist. But self manifested one. We find such deities all over India.People believe that such places have positive vibrations and are more powerful than man made temples. It took 2.5 hours to reach 300-350 mts. We just got a glimpse of the deity and started to go back as there was no space even to stand and people from behind were pushing. Crowd towards the exit was thinning down. Hence, while coming back it was not so difficult to walk through the tunnel cave.

I was told that in normal days hardly any people come to Narasimha Jharani.

Outside the temple..Shelters for devotees

Overall, it was a good adventurous and awesome experience. I would have missed important slice of experience in life if I had not visited this place. Thanks to Narasimha :-) !!!!

Travel Tips –

1.Avoid visiting during festival days and summer. You can relaxingly enjoy the nature around the temple on normal days

2. You can reach Bidar by Train or by bus from Bangalore. It is just 145 kms from Hyderabad

3.There are few hide outs for changing. But not so hygienic. We can just manage.

After my last post about Narasimha Jharni, many of my friends were asking to write about some more attractive places in Bidar.I had travelled there a few years ago. Here I am bringing back my memories about Bidar.

Bidar is a city of domes and tombs. You will stumble upon one or the other at every 500 meters. I couldn’t visit all of them during my stay for couple of days. Most important attraction of Bidar is Bidar Fort.

Bidar was the capital of Bhamani Kingdom. Bidar has many layers of history. It was ruled by many dynasties. Bahamanis loved it, Barid Shahi’s invaded it, Bijapur Sultanate attacked it and North India’s Mughal dynasty conquered it. All this happened in 300 years!! (1425 -1725 AD)

Who ruled it before Bahamani's ?

As per archeological survey of India, Bidar was under the Kalayani Chalukya’s rule(977-1190 A.D), then by Yadavas of Devagiri, followed by Kakatiyas of Warangal , Tughaluqs of Delhi and finally it came in to the hands of Bahamanis.

There are a lot of legends around it. Some say that Bidar was the ancient Vidarbha mentioned in Mahabhart and other ancient sources. Also, there is a legend that Hindu puranic character King Nala and his darling Damayanti lived here.

Bidar fort was built during the 15 century by Ahmad Shah Bahman when this 9th ruler of Bahamanis, shifted his capital from Gulbarga to Bidar. After that it underwent as many rounds of modification and fortification as many kings who ruled it. Similar to its layers of past, Bidar fort has layers of defence walls. No wonder it was considered as well protected strong fort then.

The fort is located very much within the present town of Bidar. You can’t miss this place. You can take a rickshaw from bus stand, railway station or even walk.

I couldn’t make out the shape of the fort. It is very irregular in shape.It had 5-6 entrances when it was in use.It is surrounded by 5.5kms of defence wall. Bidar fort is an artistic creation of many architects and engineers from different countries.We can see influence of Persian architecture in these structures.

All the structure in Bidar including fort is built with large blocks of stone and marter. Remains of these structures are sepia toned and are very photogenic. So what did I do there in fort ? Got photographed in each and every corner. I hardly have few pictures where I am not there in the frame. ( Sigh….)

Except few structures inside the fort, most of the parts are just a few remains. Inside the fort there are mosques, royal baths, royal kitchens, madarasa ,well and many more structures . There is a nice garden as well. Archeology department maintains inner part of the fort. There is a museum inside the fort which is worth visiting. However, I felt Bidar fort is not been given its due importance. Lot of movie in all languages have been shot here. It’s a photographers delight.

If you don’t find time to go to Bidar, watch Ishq Sufiana song from the movie ‘ Dirty Picture’. This song was shot in Bidar fort and camera has done a good flirting with this beautiful fort.

While coming back from Bidar fort I wonder, a fort – which was a symbol of royal power, confederacy, conspiracy and treachery then is now just a curious place for travelers … A place which has witnessed what not is now talked about for how many movies have been shot here.Now whether it is Bollywood or tollywood or sandalwood there is a wedlock between forts and entertainment industry. While the Kings and Queens are at peace in their respective tombs the present day film badashas and begums are engaged in hugging, kissing and sometimes even extending to bedroom scences in their palaces and even at the outer sides of the palaces! And interestingly along with star politicians and star cricketers present day celluloidherores and heroines have become are getting royal treatment from every where.

Time flows.. In its coursealong with many things of the past it has also changed the images and impressions about forts.Original meaning and symbols attached to a fort fades away.

Have you already been to Bidar ? Pls share your experience...

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Narasimha Jharani

Ever since I entered Bidar town, this one monument was so inviting due to its spooky look. Big dome poping out among the grove of trees was certainly not a popular place like fort. But it was attractive. At the first sight, I felt it is a perfect place for shooting horror movie!!

Just before catching up our train to Bangalore we had a couple of hours left. Along with one of my friends visited this place and believe me we were not in a mood to come out until our other friends started calling and reminded us that we were getting late.

This place is called as Barid Shahi tomb.

Barid Shai tomb is located in the garden on Udgiri road right behind the bus stand,walkable from any part of the town. There are two main monuments which house both father and his son’s graves.

Barid Shahi is one of the dynasties who ruled Bidar. Ali Barid Shah was a big lover of art, architecture and poetry. His tomb is one of the masterpieces of Barid Shahi architecture. He himself had built it when he was alive.

Next to this monument little away is his son Ibrahim Barid’s tomb. This one is similar to Ali Barid Shah’s tomb, but smaller in size.

Both the structures are placed on a platform. Ali Barid Shah’s tomb is a huge vertical monument of 70 ft with unusually large dome on the top compared to its lower structure. It gives a feeling of something odd with the proportion.

Outside the building on the platform are cluster of graves.These are graves of ladies from his harem. I didn’t count but i guess there were more than 50 graves.

Inside of the tomb houses Ali Barid Shah’s grave along with his begum's graves. Inside of the tomb is open on all the 4 sides. It is decorated with colorful tiles and we can find few inscriptions. There are few poems written on this. I could not read any of them though. I guess it is in Persian language.

All these monuments were unattended. I could see people having sound sleep inside the monuments next to graves !!

I understand, recently it has been taken over by ASI(Archeological Survey of India) for maintenance. There were no guides around to understand the history. I wish the government appoints few guides to keep the tales behind these monuments alive.

Apart from these two monuments there are plenty of remains of so many structures.Each of the remains of these structures were camera friendly with its pinkish texture and stunning architecture, and arches.

It was just giving us the glimpse of its glorious past. Our imagination can go non stop to build it back to its glory.

Have you already been to Bidar ? Pls share your experience...

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Bidar Fort

Bidri art work from Bidar

Once you soak in the history of Bidar and start feeling enough tombs, it is time for you to shop.This monumental city doesn’t disappoint you there as well. Bidar is famous for its Bidri art work.

It is a unique form of art work done with silver inlay work on the base material of black metal alloy.
It is a beautiful handicraft work with complicated designs in silver. Base material is an alloy of copper and zinc. They will cast jewellery boxes, bangles,vase and many more art pieces.Then different designs are engraved on the surface.On this engraved design, silver wire is inlaid.Then it will be polished to give shiny new look. We saw few artisans working on their art pieces.

500 years old Bidri art work has its origin in Bidar. It originated when Bidar came under the influence of Persian artists who were working here during the Bahamani rule.Do I need to say Bidri art got its name from Bidar ?

Bidri work is valued by art appreciators.I bought few earrings.

Price starts from Rs 200 to few thousands. Some of the big items with intricate design even cost few lakhs. Once we witness the work involved behind each art piece, we will realise it's worth the money. You can buy Bidriware directly from the artisans at better prices.

Have you already been to Bidar ? Pls share your experience ...

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Sydney is one of the most expensive cities in the world. It costs about 500 Australian dollars (AU$) perhaps more (About 30,000 Indian Rupees) for a traveler to see important attractions of Sydney over a week’s time.I am talking about only entrance ticket. Forget about accommodation and other costs.
Just to give you an idea of how expensive it is – There is something called bridge climb. Climbing harbor bridge for 3-3.5 hrs. Isn’t it interesting ? Of course it is. It offers amazing view from the top of harbor bridge and it is exceptionally beautiful. However, how much does it cost ? Sky high price for the climb starts from 198Au$ and goes up to 348Au$ depending on the slot you choose-day or night. Do you want to walk inside the Opera house – it costs 35$ ..and it goes on..

Well, I didn’t consider it as worth spending. Rather I would buy a return ticket to some other country :-)
How to experience Sydney by not digging a hole in your pocket ? Here are 5 free things to do in Sydney

1. I am free Walking tours

I knew, walking tours are pretty common in all the major cities. Started searching for one in Sydney. I found couple of walking tours. However, I am free caught my eyes as they don’t fix a price for this tour. No booking! No reservations! It’s for free. They work on tips basis. As they claim ‘ Whether it is rain, hail or storm I am free tour walks everyday’. I joined them for 2 tours. Ross, my guide was brilliant. They are passionate about their city Sydney and they want to share it with others.

I am free guide

I recommend to take their tours to get to know Sydney which even some of the locals wouldn’t have known. Day tour will take us from Town hall, CBD, Cathedral, some of the museums, Opera and Harbor bridge. They show us all we could see in 3 hrs. It is then up to us if we want to explore more about the place.Evening walk will take us to the old Sydney's small lanes which once has seen all possible crimes.
Is it Difficult to walk ?
Not at all. Anybody can do. It is not that all 3 hrs you will be walking. There are plenty of places that you have to stop and listen to stories in between. It is a good relaxing walk.

2. Museums

There are a good number of museums with free entry. Art Gallery of NSW, Museum of Australian currency notes, Macquarie the governor exhibition, Museum of contemporary arts, The rocks discovery museum, Sydney observatory, Government house, Manly art gallery and Australian centre for photography are few places where we can just walk in. Isn’t it a big basket for free ?
Timings – Most of these museums will be open between 10 am to 5 pm from Monday to Friday.

3. Royal Botanic Garden

This beautiful Botanic garden is at a walkable distance from Circular quay. Circular quay is hub for Ferry, bus and train station of Sydney. This garden is open from 7 am to 5 pm. I would recommend it for early morning jogging. Green manicured garden overlooking blue ocean is a must see. Best part of the garden is view of Opera and Harbor bridge. This will show Opera and Harbor bridge from the other side of the circular quay. Free walking tour of the garden is also available.

Botanical garden

4. Customs house

Located in the heart of the city, customs house is Sydney’s one of the best heritage building. It houses lot of events, exhibitions ,shows and premier restaurants. Are you a book worm ? They have a good library reading room overlooking circular quay. It is open till midnight. One of the best feature of the Customs house is city model. 1:500 scale city model embedded in glass will give bird view of entire CBD of Sydney.

City model embedded in glass giving bird's view from top of the glass

4. Circular quay walk

Walk along this ever bustling area is a must for any visitor to Sydney. We get to see Opera on one side and harbor bridge on the other side.

Harbor bridge from circular quay

There are array of restaurants on both the sides. Quenching the thirst with beer in Opera bar is Australians one of the favourite pasttime I heard. We can even take a walk along The Rocks, Sydney's oldest area filled with history all around.

Opera from circular quay

Most of the places mentioned be can be reached by walk from Circular quay or can take bus. Bus # 555 is free. It plies between Circular Quay and Central station

I am sure this info is good enough for you to dig more into details. Hope this will help you to plan your next travel to Sydney. I am open to share any more information that I know.

Have you already been to Sydney before ? Are there any more places to be added to this list ? Pls share...

It was my returning day from Sydney. My flight was in the evening. My friend with whom I was staying had a flight to catch in the early morning. I decided to go with her and get dropped at Circular quay on her way from her suburb home.

I am not an early bird. Except for catching the flight, I can count the days when I got up early in the morning. I was still sleepy when we drove towards the city. There he came!!! Little Kangaroo crossing the road!!! It was a small Kangaroo running in a hurry.Driver had to apply the break. It was for few seconds. He was gone in to the bushes… Wow!! That was amazing. Seeing Kangaroo jumping across the main road in Kangaroo land. Driver said it is a very rare sight. He hadn’t seen in years Kangaroo on road.

I think Kangaroo sensed my dream to see him on road freely roaming and he made that true!! Me happy happy !!

When Linsey dropped me at circular quay it was just 5.15 in the morning.Circular quay is a hub of railway station, ferry and bus stop in Sydney Sydney was still in deep sleep.The big roads were empty. One or two people were going in and out of railway station. I like to experience the place than seeing many places in a hurry. That’s one of the reasons I like to travel solo. My time my plan and my way of traveling. I didn’t have any plan for the day. It was my day to feel the city.

Opera early in the morning from circular quay

I settled on a bench in the bus stop and started reading Jayanth kaikinis short story (it is in Kananda, my mother tongue). I was lost in the story. There was a coincidence.The story speaks about Opera house, Mumbai's theater. The experince of the Opera house narrated in the story and this Opera ,to which I was a witness got mixed up in a surreal way! There is no connection between the two operas though, expect for the fact that yours truly was reading it in and viewing it too!

Then, here comes an uncouthly looking person. I immediately sensed something wrong and walked away. He was a beggar. He followed. I stood in front of a ticket vending machine for a while wondering what to do. He stood there away for sometime and moved away following someone coming out of railway station.

Golden rays reflecting on Opera house platform

To escape from his sight, I started walking towards Opera which was just 3-4 minutes away. Oh! There was hue of colors. Eastern sky was in bloom. Standing on the Opera platform I forgot the beggar and was lost in the rush of new sun rays. Dawn was unveiling the darkness. I was spell bound with the beauty in front of me.

Dawn at Opera house , Sydney

Sunrise at Opera house, Sydney

Ever bustling area was yet to get active fully. It was so quite. The dark sky was giving birth to Sun. Suddenly the eastern horizon was in full bloom! Changing colorful clouds enriched the beauty of the dawn.

Fresh morning at Opera house, Sydney

I was standing there watching this event until Opera was soaked in the golden light.Joggers started entering in to the stage called a new day. Life started unfolding from the womb of dawn at Sydney.

Pls share best sunrises you have seen ....

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Vivid Sydney is a festival of light, music and ideas happening in Sydney from 23 May 2014. This winter festival continues up to 9 June 2014. It is developed by Destination New South Wales(NSW) on behalf of NSW Government. I was told Vivid Sydney is a success story for Australia's tourism. Millions of people visit Sydney during this time. Sydney drenches in light and you never get tired walking around Sydney. Celebration fills day and night across the streets of Sydney.

There are light shows at most of the important buildings. It creates fairy world keeping us mesmerized. Projections, light installations, building illuminations and much more from the world of light. Darling Harbor, Circular Quay and The Rocks rocks !!

Building illumination, Sydney

Building illumination on museum of contemporary art, Sydney

I got to be there on first day of Vivid Sydney. I went back to my childhood jumping in excitement with the wonder lighting world in front of me. I am so happy to be part of Vivid night.

Even ferries are decorated with LED lights. It changes colors from harbor to harbor. Harbor bridge changes its color.

Harbor bridge during VividSydney. Look at ferries in different colors

Swans, dragons, ballet dancers are created in light and water. Best of all is Opera house. It shines in plethora of design, colors and light. Opera house looks like a bubbly teenager shedding its otherwise serious look. All the light shows are for free.

Opera during Vivid Sydney

I couldn’t attend any music programs. But I understand it features many performances from different genres.

Ideas flow from architecture, design, fashion, music, lighting, film , performing arts and science.There are exhibitions, talks, discussions and shows. Some are ticketed and most of them are for free. I saw few exhibitions and art works in museum of contemporary art which was a world of imagination with no end. I will write about this later. For now, some more pictures of Opera on Vivid night.

Pls share if you have seen similar toVivid Sydney

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Banavasi name itself sounds so melodious to me. May be I am biased with Pampa, Kannada’s first poet lived during the 10 century. He describes Banavasi as the most beautiful place. He says ‘ I would like to reborn in Banavasi. If not as a human being at least as a bee or a bird I would like to be born in Banavasi’. That says a lot about this place. Ever since I read Pampa during my school days I wanted to go there sometime. As I grew and lost in the world of college there after balancing work and life, I forgot Banavasi. 6 months back when I read about rural tourism being developed in Banavasi it again rekindled my interest. My yearning to go there started. However, I couldn’t make it for few months until last weekend. I traveled there with my 3 year old daughter. This was our first mom and daughter travel.

Architecture, temples, Pineapple fields, water falls, river, tasty food what more can be expected from a weekend ? That was Banavasi to Viha and me.

Nestled in the western ghats, Banavasi is a small town ( or I can call it as big village) in the district Uttara kannada. At the distance of 21 km from Sirsi, Banavasi can be your hub to travel to many more less travelled places of Karnataka.

Literal meaning of Banavasi is one who dwells in the forest. To its reputation, Banavasi is surrounded by green forest. It is located on the bank of Varada river. I always admire the good taste of those who named rivers. Look at the names of few rivers around Banavasi- Varada, Aghanashini, Shalmala !!!

The history of Banavasi goes back to 350 AD. Yes it is about 1700 years old. It is the oldest town of Karanatka. It was the capital of Kadambas and then Chalukyas followed by Hoysalas, Rastrakutas,Vijayanagar kingdom and Sode ruled Banavasi(I may not be in the right order of rulers).We can see different styles of architecture in many of the temples and monuments. It would have been amalgamation of many cultures due to different dynasties ruled Banavasi over many centuries. They say even there were many Buddhist monasteries and Jain temples. Being from Karnataka I felt as if I am here in my ancestors place. It is the land of Karnataka’s roots.

Remains of old fort envelops Banavasi. Most of the places it is down with the soil after standing for centuries. However, It is still intact in few places.

Madhukeshwara temple is the main attraction of Banavasi. Will write about it separately.There are water falls and many more interesting architectural monuments which are less travelled. Village tourism committee has developed few itineraries around 75 kms. That includes Keladi, Ikkeri, Balligavi, Talaguppa and Bandalike. If you want to be lost in nature, there are water falls like Jog falls and Lucington falls also called as Unchalli falls. We can just take a walk in the forest as Banavasi is blessed with lush forest////. There are a lot of Jaina and Buddhist places. To explore Banavasi and around the places it needs at least a week. There are many artisans in Banavasi.They work on sculpture, wood carvings and and carvings on different surfaces.We can just laze around watching them work or try to learn something from them.

How can I forget pineapple fields of Banavasi? They grow yummy pineapples. March to May is the pineapple harvesting time. I bought a book of pineapple recipes.

My travel was short and I was accompanied by my little one which was restricting my movement.Hence I could go only to few places.

How to reach ?

Banavasi is located 375 kms from Bangalore.

By Bus – From Bangalore there are plenty of buses to Sirsi. From Sirsi every 30 minutes buses are there to Banavasi. I travelled by Rajahamsa bus which starts from Bangalore at 10.30 pm. This was the only direct bus available.You need to get down after Soraba.Banavasi is after Soraba. Bus continues further to Sirsi.

By Train – Nearest Railway station is Haveri which is 70 kms, Hubli 100 kms and Karwar 145 kms.

By Air – Nearest airport is Mangalore which is 250 kms from Banavasi.

Where to stay ?

I stayed in Vanavasika guest house. This guest house is run by Village tourism committee. They have started with an intention to develop rural tourism. This is located on the main road slightly away from the town. It is a basic accommodation with no frills. Absolutely no luxury. They could have maintained it in a better way. I was told, It was built few years back and was not operational for many years. From last 3 years it is operational. If they improve the quality of accommodation I am sure it will attract more travelers.

Other highlight of staying here is Brahmakumar ( 9886641496), who is the administrator cum caretaker cum guide. He is a very helpful person. His enthusiasm in showing the places is admirable. You might be tired of going around but he will not be tired. His ever smiling personality and his energy in showing you interesting places will cover up for all the lacking you find in the accommodation.

Apart from Vanavasika, there are few home stays around this place.

What to eat ?

In Vanavasika guest house they don’t cook. But they take us to local homes to taste local food. I tasted appe huli ( Curry prepared from Mango), Tambuli ( Curry prepared with curd), Talipittu(Rice bread), Todedevu(Sweet) and jowar roti. No, I wouldn’t be able to explain what these are. You got to taste them. Moreover, having your meals with locals and get to know them and their cuisine itself is an experience. Vihaa made friendship with a toddler from one of these homes where I had food and played well with him.

More from Banavasi basket soon..

Mana is a village located 3 kms from the famous Badrinath of the Himalayas. It is the last village in the Indo Tibet border.Mana is located in Chamoli district of Uttarkhand. Uttarkhand is often called as Deva bhoomi, land of divinity. Mana takes us to a different experience of divinity and to the age of Mahabharat.

Mana is at an altitude of 3118 mts. This village is alive only during summer.People move down to lower altitudes during winter which is very common for high altitude Himalayan villages.

This village is so tiny with small lanes that we need to park our vehicle outside the village and walk around the village to explore it. Beyond that there is no motorable road. Any day I like walking. But, by the time I reached there after walking 13 kms from Gangharia to Govinddhama I was tired and my legs were not moving. I forced them to take each step. In between, somehow I didn’t take enough pictures as I always do.

Mana is a quiet, cozy village on the bank of Saraswati-Alakananda river surrounded by beautiful Himalayan mountains. Grazing sheeps, lazy village, greenery and mighty Himalayas around was a treat to eyes. Even our mind experiences the glory of Mahabharat connected with Himalyan region.

People in Mana belong to Bhutia community. They grow potatoes I heard. I saw many of them busy in weaving. They sell these garments.

Mana - Bhutia women busy in weaving

As I walk along the small lanes of the village, I reached a cave called Vyas gufa.

Vyasa gufa

This is where, Vedavyasa was believed to have rearranged the Vedas in to four parts. He narrated Mahabharat to Ganesha in this very place. It is also believed he was not contended until he wrote Srimadbhagavata here. Vyasa is a master writer with so many master pieces to his account.

Roof of the Gufa(cave) is a flaky rock. It is worshipped as Vyas pustak( Vyas book). It looks like staking of palm leaf manuscripts.They believe this is the original manuscript turned into stones over the years. Hard to believe but nice to hear !!

Rock formation believed to be book and worshipped by locals in Mana

Next to vyas gufa is Ganesh gufa where Lord Ganesha penned Mahabharata as dictated by Vyasa. There is again a legend on this . Vyasa invited Ganesha to write Mahabharat as told by him. Ganesha put forward a condition that Vyasa should narrate the story non stop. Vyasa agreed to this condition of Ganesha. And he also put forward another condition to Ganesha that he should first understand whatever told by Vyasa, before recording it. In order to have thinking time in between, Vyasa used to tell lines difficult to comprehend. When Ganesha’s pen broke, he broke one of his tusk and continued writing with it. Come what may Work should never stop! That shows the spirit of a writer and Ganesha’s professionalism!!

Mountains surrounding Mana

As I walk towards left side of these gufas I reached to the place where river Saraswati originates. Saraswati is an ancient river mentioned in Vedas, more than Ganga. Vedic culture flourished on Saraswati river belt. Saraswati has many significances. Saraswati is a river as well as goddess. As a goddess she is the mother of wisdom and wife of creator Brahma of Hindu mythology. Saraswati just flows for 100mts from its origin. Then it will join together with river Alakananda. It reappears only at Prayag, confluencing with Ganga and Yamuna. Hence it is called Triveni sangam. River Saraswati’s dissparearence and its underneath flow has both physical and spiritual symbolism in Indian culture. While geographical movement has changed the course of the river, spiritually it represents Sushumna– It is the nadi which awakens inner joy beyond worldly pleasures.

Saraswati river confluence with Alakananda

Legend says Saraswati was making too much noise with its gurgling flow and it was disturbing Vyasa to focus on Mahabharata and he cursed her to disappear from Mana. Hence she disappeared.

Saraswati originates out of a rock and glides through the rocks down to join Alakananda river after 100-150 mts . Though water is less, it makes too much of noise.

There are two rocks forming a kind of bridge. Legend goes like this. When Pandavas were walking towards Swrgarohan, Draupadi could not cross the river.Then Bhima lifted and placed a rock to create a bridge for Draupadi to walk. It is called as Bhima’s bridge(Bhim phul).

Bhim Phul

There is a temple next the river spring for goddess Saraswati. Next to the temple is the famous ‘ India’s last tea shop’ . This small tea shop serves different varieties of tea. I didn’t drink as I do not drink coffee or tea.

India's last tea shop at Mana

Beyond this Saraswathi point, there are much more interesting places. There is a small temple shrine just after crossing the river. It is believed to be the place where Draupadi passed away. She is the first one to shed her body. After that there are many places indicating Pandavas leaving their body. Only Yudhistira continued with a dog following him to heaven. This Swargaroahn or ascent to heaven symolises journey of life from peak to peak. There is a mountain called Swargarohini. It is believed that this is where Pandavas started ascending to reach swarga or heaven.

There are many trekking trails like Swargarohini, Satopant and Vasundhara falls after this point. It is adventurous as well as a spiritual journey. I didn’t go beyond Mana. But have plans to do one or two trekking.

Next to Saraswati river inside a cave I saw a Hindu sanyasi (baba) smearing ash all over his body. He was sitting quietly doing some ritual in front of a small fire. I watched him for a while. He was oblivious to people walking around. I was tempted to take his picture but was afraid to do so. When somebody was trying to take picture he annoyingly gestured not to take his picture. When I checked with locals about him, they said ‘ Often Baba changes his external appearance and he lives around this place throughout the year’.( Hard to believe for a rational mind)

Himalayan region has many layers of history embedded in it. Being a lover of mythology, and Indian epics I get goose bumps when I hear such stories. I love my India!! I love the mighty Himalayas!!

How to reach ?

Nearest airport is Dehradun, 315 kms away. Road is the only means. It is 297 kms from Rishikesh by road. Nearest railway station is Haridwara and Rishikesh.

I traveled by taxi. Road is very scary during monsoon especially stretch between Joshimath and Badrinath. I visited during monsoon and I felt as if I have reborn after reaching back to Joshimath. A valley on one side and unpredictable land slide on the other side will make this journey on road as unforgettable one. Throughout the journey I was holding my breath and waiting to see me alive.

Where to stay ?

As Badrinath is just 3 kms away there are plenty of hotels for all budgets. I didn’t stay here. I visited and returned on the same day.

I love to go to Himalayas again and again. How about you ?

If you liked the post, pls drop a note below and share it with your friends

It is the time of the year to go to the Himalayas which are not easily accessible during winter.Attractive Leh Ladakh travel packages are all over the travel sites. I feel nostalgic. I had traveled with Women on Wanderlust in 2011.

Picturesque Pangong lake

For anyone visiting Ladakh, travel doesn't complete until you visit Pangong lake. This is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen in my life.

Pangong Tso(lake) is a narrow long lake located 150 kms away from Leh. About one seventh of the lake is in Tibet and rest in India.This lake came in to fame after it was shot in the Bollywood movie ‘3 Idiots’. Pangong lake is located at the height of 14,270 ft from the sea level.

On the way we drive through Chang la pass which is the 3 highest motorable pass in the world at the height of 17,380 ft

Changla pass pose

It is a 5 hour journey from Leh through curvy roads. Visitors flood Pangong lake from May to August.

What you see as Z is road to Pangong lake from Leh

Some travelers visit and go back to Leh on the same day due to limited accommodation options at Pangong lake.Staying there and feeling the lake from dawn to dusk is a surreal experience.

Nothing comes easy. To get such a life time experience one needs to bear with the cold in the night and minimum facilities in the tent.

First sight of Pangong lake

It was afternoon when we reached there. It was love at first sight. We got the aha feel at the first sight of the lake. After finishing lunch, I just meditated the lake sitting on the bank till dawn. You might wonder isn’t it boring? No. I wouldn’t have believed if I had not experienced it! I was lost in the beauty of the lake in the background of nude mountains!!

Pangong lake

Close up of clear water

Sun plays a magical effect on the lake bringing all shades of blue. Turquoise to deep blue to Indigo to many layers of blue. As dusk captures the lake, magic will go behind the sun and it looks like any other lake.

Just before dusk - Pangong lake

We woke up early in the morning to watch the sunrise. That was another amazing experience to watch sun bringing back the magic and creating a world beyond words.

Dawn at Pangong lake

Morning again lake is shining in the sunshine

One must see this wonderful piece on earth in one’s lifetime.

How to reach ? – Only way is by road. 160 Km from Leh. It takes nearly 5 hrs.

Where to Stay ? – There are few tented accommodations with attached toilets. We had stayed at Camp Water Mark. It was a decent accommodation with good bedding which was very much needed. They also provide hot bags. Food was also decent. Water is the main concern. However, getting any basic stuff in that remote place and extreme weather is itself a luxury. So no complaints.

Accommodation in tents - Camp Water Mark - This is where we stayed

Food – There are few camps, tent hotels where you can get food.

It was very cold when we visited in the last week of May. Next day, while coming back heard that due to heavy storm all these camps were blown away by the wind. Life here is unpredictable.But I say again one must see this wonderful piece on earth in one’s lifetime.

There are heritage buildings and monuments. Do you know there are heritage trees as well? I didn’t know until I saw this tree in Banavasi. Pilale tree as they call it in kannada local language, is a sprawling tree spread across more than 2 acres of land amidst the paddy fields stands. It's botanical name is Ficus microcarpa.Standing there from the last 4 centuries, this tree is an abode for several birds and variety of flowers.

Pilale tree from the paddy fields

This Mahavriksha (Mammoth tree) as they call it in the village, is located 7-8 kms away from Banavasi in the village Jade in Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is located in the border of Uttar Kannada and Shimoga districts. We need to walk across the paddy fields for 10 minutes from the main road to reach the tree.

Branches and branches

Its branches are too many to count, cutting across each other to form a complicated structure, difficult to explain using my geometrical sensibility. We have a word parampara in Sanskrit meaning coming one after the other without any break. Similarly, these branches are earth facing. To use a similes it has created a forest with one tree.

Bushy tree

It doesn’t look like a big tree from outside. It looks more of a bush. Off shoots of the branches have multiplied giving the shape of an epic bush to the Mahavriksha. It is still growing horizontally beyond 2 acres. I was told that the Government is talking to farmers to take up the land around the tree to protect the heritage tree.

Growing tree

It was a hot sunny day. Carrying Viha and walking in the field was exhausting. Farmers working in the field asked ‘are you going to see the temple?’ I simply nodded. Brahma Kumar our guide who always was very enthusiastic to show us new places explained that there is a temple within the forest tree and villagers consider tree belongs to god. He was from Vanavasika guest house.

When we reached this massive tree we experienced a sudden change from the hot sun to cool breeze inside this tree forest.

I wanted to take a walk along the circumference of the tree which apparently takes 30 minutes to cover. As we started walking appreciating the tree, a man with a loud music in his phone enters and walks along with us. He says this land belongs to him. Somehow I was not comfortable to go deep inside the epic tree area with this unknown man. Being a solo traveler, I never go against my hunches. He offered to show temple of a local deity located at one end of the tree. But I thanked him and came out of the canopy. I didn’t want to take risk with kiddo around.

Recently, this tree has been declared as one of the Heritage trees by the Government of Karnataka under the Bio diversity act of 2002. There are 10 heritage trees in Karnataka. Some are as old as 600-800 years. To protect these age old trees and pass it on to next generations is the reason behind calling them as heritage trees. These trees are breathing life from centuries. They have all rights to live for long as long as they can! I was told Karnataka is the first state to take such an initiative in the entire country.

Have you ever come across any such granny tree ?I would love to hear.

Posts which might be of interest to you

Karnataka less travelled - I - Banavasi

As they say, the best vantage point to get Sydney's bird's view is from the top of the Harbor bridge. Is that for free ? No. It costs a whopping few hundred dollars to climb it. Time allowed for you to stay on top is only a couple of minutes. The other option is Pylon Lookout. This is another view point in Sydney. This also costs few dollars. One more option is to get 360 view from the Sydney tower and dine there. There is money involved here as well. I was wondering which one to choose from the last two options.

View capturing botanical garden and connecting harbors

Meanwhile, I got a chance to visit the city’s one of the highest rental spaces for site selection. As I stepped in, I was stunned with the view in front of me. Located on the 36 floor of that building, this corner of the floor was offering a seamless view of Harbor bridge, Opera and Botanical garden stretching till the horizon.The panoramic view of Sydney capturing most of the harbors under its sky was a captivating view.

Some pictures for you. I clicked them from inside the office space through the facade glass. Reflection of the glass was inevitable.Hope still you enjoy…

View of Opera House from not so attractive angle

She said "We are heading to Hemkund along with the Pandavas to visit Laxman temple".I was puzzled.I felt, Yes. Of course I smelled the fragrance of Mahabharat all along the Uttarkhand. But, how on the earth Pandavas have descended here after 5000 years ? Their claim of traveling with Pandavas was something beyond my imagination.

I was coming down from Ghangaria to Govindghat after visiting the Valley of flowers and the Hemkund Sahib.Ghangaria is the base camp to visit Hemkund and Valley of flowers. It is a 13 kms walk from Ghangeria to reach motorable road in Govindghat.

During y morning walk Sun was playing hide and seek

I wanted to cover this distance as early as possible so that I can visit Badrinath which was originally not part of my itinerary.

People from Niti Vilalge

Amidst the general trekkers, devotees to Hemkund sahib on this path, a large group of people arrested my attention. And I almost stopped walking and started observing them with curiosity.

The group was looking different from the crowd due to their attire. Women wore saree with a jacket kind of a blouse and black skirt. Men were wearing white robe and pajama and yellow stole around their waist.Some of them were wearing garland and very few men and women were riding horses. All of them wore head gear and lot of jewelries.

My porter was also not around to know about them. He was far ahead of me. I managed to talk to a lady in garland. I asked her, where are they heading to. She said that they are going to Hemkund Sahib to visit Laxman mandir(temple) and she moved ahead.

Arjuna and Yudhistira on horse from Niti Village

My inquisitiveness was soaring. I again stopped another lady from the group and I threw her the same question. The reply was “ we are going to Hemkund Sahib with Pandavas."

She continued "the lady with whom you just spoke is Kunti and the one on the horse is Arjuna. Didn’t you see Yudhistira in the front ? The young girl who is going along with Kunti is Subhadra, wife of Arjuna"

Lady who was kind enough to talk to me from the Bhotia tribe from Niti village

As I kept listening to her, she shed little more light about them. The group was from the village Niti in Chamoli district,Uttarkhand,India. Niti village is one of the last villages located towards Indo China border . They consider them selves as the descendants of Pandavas of Mahabharat. They belong to Bhotia tribe and they believe Pandavas of Mahabharat as their deities. They worship them. They even assign the role of each of the characters of Pandavas and their family to their people and treat them as deities. Every year, on the full moon day of August-Sep they visit Laxman temple in Hemkund Sahib. They walk from Niti till Hemkund. This is the festival time for them and they wear their best jewelleries and travel along with their deities –Pandavas To Laxman Mandir at the altitude of 15,200 ft to pay their tribute to god. There is a legend that Pandavas before starting their journey to heaven( Swargarohan) had visited this place and it has become part of Niti village’s tradition to visit this place every year on full moon day during Aug – Sep. There is another legend that Pandu father of Pandavas had done penance at Hemkund then called as Lokpal.

Entire villagers walk up to Hemkund on full moon day of September

For those who are new to Indian culture, two lines on Mahabharat.It a national epic of India, narrating the story of cousin brothers Kaurava and Pandavas. Victory of Pandavas over Kauravas with the help of divine lord Krishna is the central theme of Mahabharat.The story has flown in to all the social and psychological layers of Hindu mind.People give names to their kids based on Mahabahrat. All the Indian languages have at least one big epic on Mahabharat.

Mahabharat is not just a history to them but is a tradition. The Mahabhath which is an anthropological curiosity to many scholars is a living drama to be enacted by the current generation of the people of Niti.

I am a stanch lover of Indian mythology. You can imagine what kind of excitement had hit me. I started wondering if they believe they are the decendents of Pandavas, then does that speak a logical answer to the birth of Pandavas ? Do they practice polyandry system ? I tried to find more about them. Even google didn’t provide any more details.

Parva- Novel by S.L Bhyrappa on Mahabharat

This reminded me of Parva, a Kanada novel written by S. L Bhyrappa narrating the Mahabharat on modern realism perspective. It has been translated to English and many other Indian languages. In that he weaves a story of Pandavas birth as - Kunti and Madri wives of Pandu conceived babies from the tribal heads living in the upper Himalayas with the permission of Pandu. It is a landmark novel exploring the human side of Mahabharat.

My inquisitiveness about Niti village is ever growing. I have added Niti to my bucket list to explore the stories around.

Have you come across any such stories during your travel ? Pls share

Related post which might be of interest to you

Mana - India's last village where the Mahabharat comes alive

Srinagar in Kashmir is home for beautiful gardens developed during Mughal period. Nishat bagh is one of the gardens. I was told that it was mainly used by the royal Mughal women.
We reached Nishat bagh in the evening after a heavy rain.There was a freshness in the garden that only rain can create.
As we took a stroll along the water streams, at some point we turned back and both of us exclaimed Wooow!! With clouds showing tip of the snow cladded mountains and playing hide and seek with the clear sky, sight was dramatically attractive.Here are some pics of the nature that we enjoyed ....

View from Nishat garden

Clouds playing hide and seek and Sun goes behind the mountain

Reflection of mountain on Dal lake

Dusk is taking Dal lake in to its arms

Go and check out more Skywatch images at the Skywatch site.

Have you ever spent a day in a foreign land not understanding a word the people around you are speaking? Do you think language is the only way to understand other human beings? Join me for a tour to Lushun, a port City near Dalian.

Few years back, I was in Dalian, not so heard city in the tourist map of China. It is located on the North eastern side of China next to Korea separated by yellow sea. Being a major port city ,Dalian is a financial hub.I felt it’s a bright city compared to Beijing, but not a happening city like Shanghai though.

Xinghai square in Dalian

During one of my weekends in Dalian, I wanted to go out for a day trip and checked with my hotel concierge. Probably then I was not a seasoned traveler, I was dependent on the information that hotel provided and booked for the day trip. I assumed I will be in a smaller group and obviously English speaking guide would accompany me.

I was taken from my hotel to a bus parked in one of the most crowded streets of Dalian. I spoke to Lushun guide to inquire about the place we were going, only to know that she doesn’t understand an iota of English. Bus was full of local Chinese and Chinese speaking neighboring countries. Imagine not a soul to understand the language that I could speak. I had to call my Chinese colleague to communicate to the guide that I had paid for the trip at hotel, when she came for collection.

I noticed a young lady greeting with a bright smile when I was looking out for a seat in the bus which was almost full.She ushered me to a seat next to a boy of about 10 years as if she understood my out of place feeling. Later I understood they are a Philippine family of husband , wife and little son holidaying in China. They were encouraging their son to speak to me in English. He was too shy to talk. I guess he was studying in an English medium school. They offered me something to eat I politely said no as it was some non veg snacks. They were affectionate towards me. Though we couldn’t communicate through language I knew we are still talking to each other throughwordless converse.

Our guide started her commentary as we moved away from Dalian. Not even a word made sense to me.

The place we were heading was Lushun. As I couldn’t understand anything about the place except the name while travelling, I gathered info about this place post my visit.

Look at the colorful umbrellas. Umbrellas were the main attraction for me in Dalian

When we visited Russian – Japanese prison of Lushun, it was raining. Without me asking for help, my Philippine friend gave me an umbrella to share with the boy and she managed another one with her husband. When our guide gave some instructions, she left her son in her husbands supervision and directed me to different parts of the prison holding my hand. I was touched.

Lushun Prison museum - Picture from internet

This prison was used by the Russian and Japanese rulers to hold Chinese war time prisoners. They were using it as a labor camp to get hard works from them. There are many factories telling the story of those hardship days .It is now used as a memorial exhibition centre. It is one of the historic places of Dalian.

After this prison visit, I had full confidence on her and I just had to follow her wherever we stopped. She fully assumed the responsibility to guide me.

Classic car museum Lushun - Picture from internet

We visited Dalian car museum which houses classic cars and motorbikes. There was a commentary about each of these pieces but again every bit in Chinese.

Everything was in Chinese

Later we went on a boat cruise to nearby island and then to Baiyu mountain by cable car. Again here, she sent her husband and son in a different cable car and accompanied me in an another car. While taking cable car ride, she spoke to me in Philippines. I answered in English guessing her questions. I guess we understood each other.

Lushun city view from cable car

Baiyu mountain has a beautiful view from the top. It is also called as white jade mountain. From here we can see beautiful coastline. They say it resembles Tiger’s tail which is the symbol of Lushun. Weather was bad on the day I was there. I could see the coast line but not at its best. Look at the images.

Lushun port view from Baiyu mountain - It was foggy when I clicked it

View during good weather - Picture from internet

Being in a strategic location, Lushun is a natural port.Unfortunately, due to its advantages it had attracted many invaders and had suffered under Russian and Japanese aggressors. Japan has ruled it for about 40 years. We can see Japanese and Russian cultural influence on buildings and monuments. It has a tragic story of Japanese massacring thousands of Chinese soldiers and civilians after their victory.

Apparently it is written as 'Port Arthur'

It is 60 km away from Dalian. It was formerly called as ‘Port Arthur’. Lushun is a very significant city for its historical importance. Foreigners have to take permission before entering as Lushun port is under the control of military. In my case, may be that is the reason I didn’t find anyone other than non-Chinese. But I really don’t know how they got permission for me. I guess they accommodated me with the locals as I was the only foreigner.

Only one English word I heard from my dear little companion, when driver parked the bus for lunch at Lushun city is ‘now dinner’!! I had cucumber and carrots which I was carrying with me and ended my lunch with chocolates. I live on chocolates whenever I find it difficult to get veg food.

After lunch we drove back to Dalian for Dalian sightseeing. I skipped it and said adieu to my Philippine friend from bottom of my heart.

Lushun might be a land of tragedy with a massacre memories, but for me it brings sweet memories of a beautiful person at heart.

Now tell me do you think you need a language to know a person?

Have you come across any such experiences, please do share.

Shikara ride on Dal lake is the most natural choice for anyone to end their day in Srinagar. Dal lake is Srinagar’s most enchanting place surrounded by mountains. It is even more charming due to its brightly painted Shikaras and houseboats which will embellish the vast beautiful lake with bustling life. Shikaras are the wooden boats which are the means for commute in Dal lake.

Shikara ride on Dal lake

Inside the boats they have cushions for comfort and decked with Kashmiri clothes giving us the taste of Kashmir.Dal lake is a floating township. It has everything to contain a smooth life, from coffee shop to Apparels , from Restaurants to handicraft shops, from hotels( House boat) to vegetable market.

Floating shops on Dal Lake

Interiors of Shikaras parked in a row

When we started our Shikara ride it was late in the evening. Temperature was dipping every minute. Sun was almost behind the mountains towards west. As we started our ride, floating trinket hawkers stopped us every 5 minutes. Finally we decided to buy something. While we were negotiating with them, couple of other Shikaras surrounded us with albums. You guessed it right. Mobile studio. They showed us albums to get photographs in Kashmiri dress and were ready with different colors of dresses and necessary accessories. I was sold before they finished their selling session. In next 2 minutes I was in Kashmiri dress posing !! They delivered the pics later to our house boat.Though it was funny, it is nice to relish those moments now

Me posing

As we make our way from these entrepreneurs, picking up tasting Kashmiri kava from the floating restaurants, western sky was in its colors. Some pics for you.

Dal lake

Dal lake at Sunset

We stayed in one of the house boats. It was not floating as they say. It was well anchored permanent hotels in the shape of a boat in Dal lake. Boat we stayed had luxurious interiors in its lobby. But comfort of stay was just basic.

House boat

If I ever visit Srinagar again, I don’t think I will stay in floating house boat.Rather I explore home-stays as suggested by Poorna & Brinda .
Go and check out more Skywatch images at the Skywatch site.

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1. I am free Walking tours

2. Museums

3. Royal Botanic Garden

4. Customs house

4. Circular quay walk

Sydney - Sunrise at Opera, bloom in the sky

Sydney - Opera drenched in lights during VividSydney

Karnataka less travelled - I- Banavasi

Mana – India’s last village where Mahabharat comes alive

Skywatch Friday - Pangong lake - Dawn to dusk

Karnataka less travelled- II - 400 years old tree in Banavasi

Sydney Skyline - Skywatch Friday

People from Niti village - Descendents of Pandavas of the Mahabharat

Skywatch Friday - Dramatic sky from Nishat garden, Srinagar

Lushun,Port city in China - a day beyond language barrier

Skywatch Friday – Sunset at Dal Lake,Srinagar