48 hours in Delhi

Populous, loud, buzzing, bashing, political, historic, gastronomic, fashionable and fun, Delhi adorns many hats, playing multiple personalities with proper panache.  The capital city of India, Delhi, is one of the top most tourist destinations on people’s checklist. After all it is the heart of India, located at the center of the country and has plenty to offer for anyone seeking for new experiences or sights. Delhi is a heady mix of tradition and modernity, significant as both a religious center and India’s international gateway.

I remember my time in this city with my friends, when we had taken up the challenge to see all the major tourist destinations  of Delhi in 2 days. Now I know slow travel is the best way to truly immerse yourself in the culture and the beauty that the new place has to offer, but unfortunately we are not always so luxurious and liberal with our time and money, right? So we girls embarked on our Delhi sightseeing journey which was insane, overwhelming, and amazing. Delhi can be difficult yet endearing at the same time. Here is my curated list of things to do when you are in capital city for 48 hours

1. Get a Glimpse of India Gate: A doppelganger/ twin sibling of the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris, India Gate is a magnificent stone arch built as a memorial to Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in WWI. An eternal flame burns beneath the enormous structure and its walls are inscribed with the names of more than 100,000 soldiers who fought for the battle.Time required: 1 hour max

Pro Tip: For a real déjà vu, try to see the India Gate at night when the monument is luminously lit up and the beautiful fountains around it give the place a truly magical look

2. Appreciate the of the Architectural Wonders of Old city: 

Red Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort was once a home to the emperors of the Mughal dynasty. This historic complex is built by Shah Jahan of Taj Mahal fame. Its tall red sandstone walls, dramatic arches, romantic balconies and ornate tile work are sights to behold.Time required – 3 hrs max

Pro tips: Aim to visit as early as possible in the morning before the crowds arrive. If you’re not staying late, it’s recommended that you leave by 4 p.m. to avoid the insane rush hour traffic.  a discount is provided on cashless payment

Jama Masjid: Again built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid is one of India’s largest mosques in India. Built at a cost of 1 million rupees, this mosque offers you a panoramic view of Old Delhi from the top of its minarets. For less than £1 it’s undoubtedly the best way to soak up the city.Time required: 1 hr max

Pro Tips: Plan your visit as the mosque is shut to visitors from noon until 1.30 p.m. when prayers are held. Also note that it gets particularly busy on Fridays, when devotees gather for the communal prayer.

3. Relish the taste of India at Haldirams: With branches across the country, Haldirams is perhaps one of the oldest and most popular vegetarian restaurants in the city. You can try variety of Indian sweets, savories and street food items here in a hygienic, visitor-friendly environment. Their cloud-like fluffy dhoklas, crispy tangy pani puri and delectable Bengali sweets are like food made in heaven.Time required: 2 hrs

Pro Tip: Don’t just settle with one sweet. Try them all

4. Explore history at Qutub Minar: This 240 feet tall building is also a renowned UNESCO world heritage site. This minaret was built by the first ruler of Delhi and is named after its creator Qutb-ud-din Aibak. It’s the tallest brick minaret in the world, made of red sandstone and marble, and inscribed with verses from the Quran. 

Time required: 2 hrs max

Pro Tip: This place is one of the tourist place that’s nearest to Delhi International Airport, so if you got some layover time, you can flock to this place.

5. Tour the Humayun’s Tomb:  The monument that is regarded as a prototype of Taj Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb is another UNESCO World Heritage site, built in 1569 after Emperor Humayun’s death. Set in a large square garden, Humayun’s Tomb is a first distinct example of proper Mughal style architecture, inspired by Persian architecture.Time required: 1 hr max

 

Pro Tip: To best appreciate Humayun’s Tomb, visit it first before you see its superior cousin, Taj Mahal.

6. Seek splendor and solace at Taj Mahal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Wonders of the World, no picture can encapsulate the true grandeur of this monument. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna, Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz. Set against a soft blue sky, Taj Mahal is an epitome of beauty with its picture perfect symmetry, immaculate white marbles and the rhythmic union with changing hues

Time required: 2hrs max. ( Note that it will take you about 4 hrs to drive from Delhi to Agra, Taj Mahal)

Pro Tip: Sunrise, sunsets and full moon night is the best time to see this beauty.

7. Find Peace at Lotus Temple: Open to all castes and creeds, the temple is an ideal place for anyone who wishes to meditate and pray. The universal symbol of peace, a lotus flower, gives the temple not only its name but shape as well. The temple is a place of Baha’i faith and interestingly, this temple has no idols, religious pictures, or outward symbols of religion. The lotus design was chosen because of its symbolic importance to many world religions, including Jainism, Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam.Time required: 1 hr max

Pro tip: Don’t go for the view, go for the tranquility

8. Go café hopping at Hauz Khaas Village: The Hauz Khas Complex is a enthralling urban village a little south of New Delhi. The entire village is dotted with numerous ancient stone monuments, a scenic lake, and a dozen of cafes, bookstores, art galleries and boutiques attracting the hip and happening crowd of the city.

Pro tip: Visit one of these cafes to experience the social life thereKunzum Travel Cafe: For travelers, who like to meet, exchange stories, read up travel books in the library and write about their journeys over a cup of coffee.                         TLR Cafe: Get a drink and enjoy the live gigs, karaoke sessions, pub quizzes and comic nights here
Gunpowder: Enjoy dining with a view of the deer park that hangs right below your table at this South Indian restaurant
Social Offline: From quirky glassware to exquisite drinks and appetizing food, Social offline makes for one of the most buzzing and cool places in Delhi.
Elma’s Bakery: A quaint vintage looking bakery apt for high-tea, authentic scones, and delicious slices of cakes.

9. Visit Magnificent Temple of Akshardham: Considered to be among some of the largest Hindu temples in the world, Akshardham is an archetype of remarkable architecture that can leave you mesmerized. It is a Hindu place of worship, complete with exhibits, boat rides, light water shows and verdant gardens. Inaugurated in 2007, the temple looks like it could be centuries old. Adorned with intricate and detailed carvings, this magnificent building attracts countless visitors for its grandiose beauty.

Time required: 4 hrs max

Pro Tip: Do not miss the light water show

10. Experience the street food at Parathe Wali gali: Nestled in Chandni Chowk, the narrow lanes of Parathe Wali Gali is home to some of the most lip-smacking paranthas (fried bread). The alleys are packed with customers at most times of the day. The recipes offered by some of the stalls are said to be generations old. The paranthas or the breads are stuffed with varieties of scrumptious vegetarian fillings and served with curd, salad and chutneys.

Pro Tip: Try Classic Aloo and Paneer Parathas

11. Pay your respects to the Father of the Nation at Raj Ghat: This is a memorial dedicated to one of the most famous freedom fighters in the world, Mahatma Gandhi. There is an “eternal flame” at one end of the memorial that signifies the endless struggle our ancestors went through for getting freedom. Every Friday, a prayer is conducted at the memorial, and the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi are narrated here.Time required: 1 hr max

 

Pro Tip: Hit the museum if you want to know more about Gandhiji’s life

12. Strike a pose with celebrities at Madame Tussaud’s: Experience your very own star-struck moment with the opening of Madame Tussaud’s in the capitol of India. Sprawling over 2 floors, the attraction had five themed areas including history and Leaders, Sports, Music, Film & TV, and Hollywood Party. The museum specializes in immortalizing our favorite stars in the form of spectacular wax figures that are sure to make you think you’re meeting your idol in person.Time required: 2hrs max

Pro Tip: Go crazy with paparazzi

 

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Exploring the Romantic City of Udaipur

Do you ever think how it would have been to live in the royal era?  In the era of prince and princesses, kingdoms & forts, amidst all the grandeur and galore.

I thought about it a lot, when my mom told me stories about Princesses, and now when I watch movies or series like Game of thrones. There is some seductive sophistication in that world, that allures millions of people to revisit that era see that opulence and unravel the stories of that world. No wonder Historic cities in Italy, Egypt, Greece, etc have highest influx of tourists from all over the world.

India is one such country that boasts of rich history. The first known permanent settlements appeared over 9,000 years ago, in India, and gradually developed into the Indus Valley Civilization. Since then, the country has been ruled by several dynasties, and has seen the rise and fall of many empires – each unique in their own ways of administration, social fabric and cultural canvas.  Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Sikhism — all have their origins in India.

My trip to Udaipur few months back was a time travel to that historic era.  Udaipur is a beautiful town in Rajasthan brimming with royalty. With the backdrop of Aravalli Hills and the serenity of lakes, Udaipur is often regarded as the Venice of the East. This city is the best tourist destination widely known for elegant monuments, stunning location, cultural immersions and sumptuous cuisine

Fun Facts about the city

 *King Udai Singh of Mewar dynasty founded the Udaipur city in 15th century. As per the folklore, once when Maharana Udai Singh went hunting near Lake Pichola, he came across a sage who advised king to construct the palace on the same place and assured king that it will be a safe location for his dynasty.

*World’s first man-made micro system of river diversion, linkage and watershed management happened in Udaipur. This resulted in the current system of interconnected lakes.

*Lake Palace or Jag Nivas in Udaipur is chosen as the world’s most romantic hotel. Located in the center of Lake Pichola, it was once a summer palace of Sisodia rulers in 17^th century.

I had taken a direct flight to Udaipur and booked an Uber from airport to my hotel. It was 7.30 am and the city was still in snoozy mood. So were my fellow companions who were asleep in the back seat. I on the other hand kept my eyes wide awake, absorbing the sight of place as it morphs from majestic mountains to colorful havelis.

I have come to realize that early mornings are the best time to explore the place especially here in India. Everything is calmer, there are fewer crowds, less commotion and you can actually sense the beauty of the place.

Havelis are huge mansions with large main gates, sprawling courtyards and embellished frescoes. Many of these havelis are now converted into heritage hotels offering ultimate luxurious experience to the visitors

We had opted for glamping in this glamorous place. We reached Raasleela, our boutique hotel located on the banks of Lake Pichola offering a panoramic view of Jagmandir, City Palace & Lake Palace. We were instantly charmed by the regal romanticism of the place.

Raasleela means Dance of Divine in Hinduism. Rasa means aesthetics and Lila means play or dance.

After checking in and checking out the hotel, we went to our first tourist site, City Palace.  Often distinguished as the largest palatial complex in Rajasthan and second largest in India, this majestic Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur. This place is an epitome of rich architectural finesse. The palace celebrates a beautiful amalgamation of the Rajasthani and Mughal architectural style.

It has brilliant assortment of towers, domes, courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. This place was just spectacular. I was so fascinated with the intricate artwork and fine craftsmanship found in every nook and corner of the palace. Each Mahal (bungalow) in the complex has unique and lavish display of arts and culture through their exquisite decor, which includes beautiful murals, miniature paintings, antique furniture, ornamental tiles and marvelous mirror work.

Fun Facts about the palace

* City Palace comprises 11 wonderful palaces, which were built by different rulers yet they are in sync and resemble each other.

*The palaces within the complex are interlinked through a number of chowks or quadrangles with zigzag corridors and narrow staircase. Ideally, it was built this way to avoid surprise attacks by enemies

*The Royal family still lives in Udaipur and on many occasion, they meet people on a grand cultural unction or a local fest.

I would recommend booking a tour guide or audio guide to better understand the historical significance of this place. Overall, it took us about 5 hours to explore the place.

After the grand tour of the palace, we were eager to try the Grand Thali of Rajasthan. We had lunch at Natraj Restaurant, a classic traditional restaurant in the city serving delicious vegetarian fare at extremely affordable rates.

Thali is a style of Indian dish in which in small portions of a multitude of delicacies is served on a single large plate.

By the time we finished the lunch, it was almost 3 p.m. The heavy meal and the scorching heat out there were insisting me to crawl back into my cozy hotel and surrender to sleep. But the super zealous tourist in me valiantly fought back the laziness and decided to head to the Monsoon Palace instead. The place was almost 2 hours drive from our location, so actually no sleep was harmed during the making of this plan. I slept like a baby in the backseat while my fellow companions stayed awake this time.

Perched on a hilltop, this palace was built by built by Maharana Sajjan Singh to observe clouds and predict rains. He aimed to build the Monsoon Palace as a 9 storey structure in the design of an astronomical hub, but due to his premature death at the age of 26, this project was stalled. Later his successor completed the work.

Unfortunately, when we visited the place, there was some construction work going on and many parts of the palace were shut down for visitors. However, this site was less about the palace and more about the splendid aerial views of the city that it has to offer.

The Monsoon Palace stayed true to its name as it started raining there when we reached. Fortunately there was one resourceful person among us who was carrying umbrellas. No it wasn’t me. I pack nothing but my enthusiasm for trips.

It must be a local hangout spot as we saw many kids and teens with their friends chilling at this place, singing and dancing in the rains. It was so delightful to watch their pure joy. Also, we saw two clouds from opposite direction coming near each other, slowly and gently creating this burst that was just so soothing to watch. We were fortunate to witness the sunset at this place when the city skyline was illuminated with a pale orange glow.

At the dusk, we departed. Ideally we were planning to go boating in the lake Pichola, but to our dismay, the last boat ride available started at 6.00 pm and we could not reach there before 6.30 pm. So instead, we strolled around the bustling markets of old city. The streets of Udaipur are shopper’s paradise with myriad of things to buy like traditional crafts, vintage wares, interesting artifacts, colorful clothes, mosaic lamps, embroidered purses and shoes, handmade diaries and so much more. The vibrant vivacious streets were not merely a feast to the eyes but also a delight to our pockets as these articles were available at quite affordable prices.

After satisfying the shopaholic urges and emptying our purses, we returned to our hotels. By that time it was already dark. The beauty of this place is enhanced in the night, with the magic of moonlight, the starry skies and the shimmering lights. Our resort had arranged a candle light dinner for us by the lakeside. The view, the food and the mood, everything was just lovely.

Next day, we had reserved for Jagmandir. But it started raining the next morning and that kind of hampered our plan. So instead we just chilled at the hotel. However it is okay as is difficult to strictly adhere to the itinerary when you are travelling.

And with happy heart we left the place. That was my trip to Udaipur; surreal, majestic and magical.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Camping at Rishikesh

 

At the break of dawn, in the month of December, we arrive at Haridwaar. As soon as we get off the train, the cool air starts casting its spell on us. With trembling hands, we rush to save ourselves from the clutches of cold and pull out our sweaters from our luggage. Okay, I may be exaggerating but when you are accustomed to live in scorching heat of 32 degree Celsius, even 10 degree can make you freeze.

We had booked a camp at Rishikesh for 2 days. Rishikesh is a small old town in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India. It’s situated on the banks of the Ganges River, surrounded by hills on three sides. The enchanting scenery along with pleasant weather makes Rishikesh an ideal spot for camping. Most people flock here in search of peace or adventure.

Rishikesh has many names- Land of God, The Adventure Capital of India and The Yoga Capital of the world. This town is divine and daring with its scenic backdrop, the chants of Hindu prayers and the adrenaline-pumping adventures that it offers.

Though Indians have been drawn to Rishikesh since ancient times, it gained prominence in the west when the Beatles came here many years ago. For us, we were more inclined towards adventure stuff, so skipped the ashrams and yoga.

Our camp organizer had arranged a cab for us. The ride from Haridwaar to Rishikesh was truly exhilarating. At 6.am, the roads were deserted with only few people on the streets. While driving, we saw colorful posters of the camps, treks and host of adventure sports. Our cabbie took a halt at the only available food stall for breakfast. We had nice warm Masala Tea and cauliflower bhajjis (little nuggets of cauliflower dipped in gram flour and deep fried) served piping hot with mint chutney. Being a religious place, you will rarely find non veg food here. In fact in most places use of garlic and onions in food is also prohibited. On the long and winding road, our car passed through majestic mountains, freshwater rivers, picturesque valleys and beautiful flora and fauna. We also saw a huge Shiva statue on the way. The route and the journey were just mesmerizing.

The driver dropped us atop a hill. Down the hill we could see our camp with their hoarding. We were at first bemused and thought our driver was kidding. This slope was steep and there was no way we could climb down and reach that camp in single piece. But the reality of the grim situation set in when we called the camp owner and confirmed the location. Apparently going through these perilous hills was the only way to reach the destination. So we prayed the Lords and started descending with labor and luggage.

I made the classic mistake of carrying an extravagant amount of clothes in a trolley luggage bag instead of the rucksack which is obviously a better and a smarter choice. We relived the poem Jack and Jill as me and my friends struggled to climb down, toiling and tumbling all the way down.

Finally we reached the site, bruised and bone tired. But soon our exhaustion was replaced by exaltation as we behold the beauty of the site. It was picture perfect, like you see in poster cards. The lush green trees, spotted grey mountains and gushing sound of river against the stones, the time stood still. So did us. We just sat there for an hour, in peace & quiet. Just absorbing the calmness and soaking in the sun.

It felt like a natural therapy, listening to the chirping of birds and glistening in the sunshine, enjoying the sound and sight of nature. Our camp was located right in front of mountains and river stream. There were 8 tents, one common room, eight bathrooms (detached), one kitchen and a huge ground to play basketball, volleyball and badminton.

The hunger pangs & the gong of bell there made us spring and go to the common area where the lunch was being served. The food was simple yet delicious, with typical Indian dal chawal sabzi roti and gulab jamun. Cold days and hot food is best combination to brighten the mood.

After indulging in delicious desi meal and interacting with other members of the camp, we embarked on our waterfall trek at 4 pm. We were accompanied by two guide, two dogs and twenty other people. It was my first & only trekking experience so far. The narrow stream of water in the jungle was our trail which will lead us to our waterfall. I was wearing 3 layers of clothes (it was freaking 7 degree Celsius) and as the trek went on, a layer of clothing went off, till I was in my tee in tracks. The air was thin and my face was redder than the Little Red Riding Hood.After two hours and truckloads of sweat, we reached our destination. And the exertion was worth it.  The waterfall was just wonderful.

The shape of the waterfall looked like hundreds of little grass umbrellas are attached to the mountains. Nature never stops surprising!Now, if climbing up was difficult, climbing down was a disaster. We were the slowest in bunch of 20 people; our tour guide had abandoned us totally forgetting that we were part of the group. Four of us in the middle of the jungle stranded alone. We were scared and had to get out of there before the dark night sets in.

Luckily for us, the two dogs were blessing in disguise. They never left our side. The waited for us, one leading us and one following us, loyally helping us get out of there. I felt immense love and gratitude for them.

It was heartwarming to see such loyalty and love by these furry animals. I was never a pet person but this incidence changed my minds for dog. It was the first time I petted a dog. Unfortunately one of my friends is really scared of dog, and she was terrified the whole time. At one point she was so scared that she just broke down. And we tried to shoo away the dogs for her peace but they would not leave us alone.Somehow we managed to reach camp with sweat tears & torch. So pissed with the tour guide; we blasted at him for the lack of care and responsibility. He apologized and tried to pacify us. (He had too)

We went for a bath & let the hot shower melt our angst & anger. The camp had arranged for a bonfire, and we were most excited for this. Sitting besides the river, under the twinkling stars, accompanied by the bonfire and bunch of friends is bewitching at its best. But our dreams were shattered thanks to some drunken moron guys who started behaving weird out there. They constantly tried to hit on us making us uncomfortable, and played loud brash music and we just did not get good vibes from those people out there. To spare ourselves from eve teasing and eve ruining, we furiously locked up ourselves in tent. We were sulking and bitching that nothing is going right today. Soon the bitchiness, turned into craziness as we started partying and dancing inside the tent, with our phone flashlights.

That’s the beauty of friends. Even lockup can be fun with them.

FYI these tents were quite big and comfortable, not those tiny portable ones which you use while trekking Next morning, the camp owner felt really bad that we had skipped dinner after all the bad experience out there. Next day he made sure that we faced no troubles and enjoyed our stay there. This day was reserved for white water rafting.

Rishikesh’s proximity to the upper Himalayas along with the passing of the Ganges through this city makes it an ideal spot for river rafting. For adventure junkies, this is one should be on your list of things to do in Rishikesh

Mounting the raft boat on our cab, we set out for the ultimate mission. Our raft route was from Shivpuri to Lakshaman Jhula. Shivpuri was an hour away from our site. And this place was surprisingly exotic. The emerald jade water, the green hills and the shimmering white sand, never knew Ganga can be as cool as Goa.

On the banks our guide was pumping air into the raft. Before starting, he shared with us important tricks and life saving tips packaged with large doses of dark humor. Donning our life jackets and helmets, we jumped onto the rafts. Four of us were accompanied by 6 other guys, including two expert professionals, for rafting. With the chant of ‘Jai Ganga Maya Ki’ we embarked on our raft and left the banks of river. The water was icy cold. At first it was like kayaking, and all of us were singing and chatting and admiring the beauty around us. But the humble boating soon transformed into a monstrous ride when the boat started wobbling & we had to battle against the strong rapids of Ganga. I was excited for the new adventure. We could see to giant wave coming nearer with full force and together we start paddling harder.

The giant leap of water smacked us with full force and all of us were completely drenched. It was scary yet exciting and I couldn’t stop screaming or laughing, both at the same time. Eventually we got better with every rapid, and literally outperformed ourselves.

That’s the beauty of adventure. It makes you stronger in ways that you would never anticipate. Such a surreal experience.We took a halt at a cliff called Maggi Point. (They sell hot Maggi at that point, hence the name). Cliff jumping was part and parcel of what I had signed up for. Now, more than heights, I was scared of this icy cold water. So, I was reluctant to try it out. But my daredevil friend just went for it, devoid of any second thoughts or hesitation. That sheer boldness, her exuberance and the fact that even 15 year old were jumping; all of these helped me muster the courage to take a leap. I just closed my eyes and went for it. And that free fall of nano seconds seems like forever.

The anticipation of water that’s going to hit you very soon, and then it does. I drowned into water due to sheer force and no sooner than I knew, I rise above. Above the water and above my fear. The feeling was magical.

The thrill as your heart beats to hyper-drive when you take a leap of faith from the height of a mountain range into the river. It is hard to explain this in words.And then we continued on our raft, no more rapids though. It was calm and relaxing after the cliff. This was my last day here. After rafting, we left the town, but its memories never left us.

I think for me, Rishikesh lived up to its name. A true adventure capital as there was not a day without a crazy adventure. And spiritual city because the moment we stepped in, we were shaken, surprised, awed by the spiritual awakening in ways we didn’t expect nor sought for.

Weekend Getaway from Mumbai

When December arrived
And the weather got pleasant
We planned a short trip
At a place our adjacent

We got on the roads
Drove past mountains so high
Wearing green blankets
They looked so divine

After 5 hours and 50 songs
We reach our place, “Panchgini”
Checking into the hotel
I was filled with ecstasy

In our rooms, we sneak in bed
& have a good siesta
We wake up to the smell of tea
& indulge in appetizing chai – nashta

Then I stroll by the blooming gardens
Accompanied by vibrant butterflies
There abode myriad of flowers
& colorful birds in the skies

As the dusk begins to fall
We plunge into the pool
Splashing & swimming
We enjoy in full

We have a nice dinner
Under the starry night
The cool breeze tickles our skin
& delectable cuisine, our appetite

Next day when the dawn sets
We get behind the wheels to see the beauty
We drive by the lakes, hills & meadow
& halt at sunflower & strawberry fields

We pluck the luscious fruits
& learn about the berry beings
Thanks to the friendly owner
Of those pretty strawberry fields

Then we go to the Mapro Gardens
Whose Signboard we see every 10 mins
We see Chocolate Factory sans Charlie
& shop for jams, juices & jelly

We were told, their food is delicious
Have Wood fired Pizza & Strawberry Cream
The tales were true, the food was scrumptious
We left the place with happy gleam