Tuesday 27 August 2013

Tree House.... Best Resort to stay Near Jaipur , Rajasthan

I had heard of this resort some time back , and that time only it was added in my bucket list. On this trip to Jaipur i was going to visit it just to do the Reiki of the resort.

Just 1hr Before Jaipur , not far that it cant be stayed when visiting Jaipur , Its location gives it a feasibility that one who is on the trip to Jaipur and want to live in Different Luxurious Resort then he can choose this. Yes , I would rate it as a Different Luxurious Resort , though there are many luxury resorts and haveli's in Jaipur but it has got a edge above all.

[caption id="attachment_751" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Barren Land just before the Resort Barren Land just before the Resort[/caption]

Travelling just 0.9 km down the lane from the New Delhi - Jaipur highway and taking a off road crossing these barren land , i was bit confused whether i am going right but the sign boards were guiding me and i was moving forward leaving my confusion aside. Little bit of Rain had added some green colour to the picture otherwise it had been the typical Rajasthan brown shade which would have been giving it a proper barren look.

After some 1 km happen to see the guard sitting, and stopping us for the entry . Still there was no sign the resort , he guided us and told just to go straight but keep your car speed below 30km/h . It surprised me more , what am i going to find in this place which would come in my way.

[caption id="attachment_752" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Tree House , Bamboo covered entrance of the Resort. Tree House , Bamboo covered entrance of the Resort.[/caption]

Atlast after some 10min i was in front of this great , beautifull mansion style made hut. It was the entrance of the Resort. Well decorated , bamboo's giving it a all together different feel.



 

On the Entrance this piece of wood shaped like a boat camouflaging small plants in it had given the signs that i was about to visit something which is going to surprise me in every sense.

[caption id="attachment_754" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Going for a walk with the Staff Going for a walk with the Staff[/caption]

They had arranged one staff member for us to take us for a long walk . Yes , it had become a long walk after we had returned as i was tired , this resort is awesomely huge and beautiful.

[caption id="attachment_755" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Tree House Tree House[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_756" align="alignnone" width="678"]Tree House Tree House[/caption]

Atlast i was in the actual Tree House for which his name has been coined. Tree coming in from the floor and passing through the roof , just on your side of bed you will see a tree passing and this was something amazing. Have seen tree houses at many places and in sanctuaries it is very common but this something very different , air conditioned room with bathroom attached with all the best of facilities available.

Though walking on a wooden floor always gives a risky feeling but here it was not a issue , a whole flat or can say 6 separate deluxe rooms have been settled on well set group of some 4-5 tree's and bamboo shoots giving them support as well from the down.

[caption id="attachment_757" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Name of the apartment Name of the apartment[/caption]

Every apartment has been named after different species of bird. As was told some 24 species of birds can been seen here. Tree house has been built on such a height that you just have too sit on your room window and the whole tree is below the window and one can easily see the flora and fauna of the resort. One can never even imagine that they are staying in a place which almost in the middle of barren land of Aravali's.

[caption id="attachment_758" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Rabbits at tree house Rabbits at tree house[/caption]

Saw these Rabbits when we stepped out and came down from the room. They even have duck pond and peacocks and hyena sound is very easily heard in the mornings.

[caption id="attachment_759" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Dirt Bikes Dirt Bikes[/caption]

Keeping the activities section in Mind tree house management has got Dirt bikes and cycle safari for the visitors. A separate sports area having badminton and tennis court was there , very nicely designed soothing swimming pool and in the end they provide Jungle Safari also.

On asking they claim if your luck favours and the season is right then one can see leapord also in the jungle safari. But a claim is just a claim unless it is proven right so i would say this is what they claim , proving it right is in visitors hand.

An extremely well thought designed and well maintained resort. Any one visiting Jaipur or nearby , its the best place to stay if one wants to stay in luxury style being not far from the main Jaipur city .

For query regarding availability and rates CLICK HERE

 

 

 

 

Saturday 24 August 2013

Life of a village lady

My trip was over for Jaipur , and i was heading back for Delhi , but still two things were waiting for me on the way.

I was going to stay for one night in a Rajasthan village which is just some 2Hrs away from Delhi. It had been long time since i had been to any village or can say Countryside which is the most common word now a days used for our villages by Tourist's coming to India.

Its is a very common saying that if you want to see India then see villages of India it is where the actual India presides , i was believing on this line and was going to stay one night there.

Shanoli Village near to Alwar which is famous now a days for two reasons one being it is now developing as Industrial town and second being the very famous Neemrana fort resort. But i was going to stay in a normal house of a relatives of my Driver, who had invited me for a stopover.

I was not aware that i would be meeting such a courageous and hard working person who would stun me in every word of her.

[caption id="attachment_740" align="alignnone" width="678"]Mrs. Sharmila Yadav Mrs. Sharmila Yadav[/caption]

We reached her place in the afternoon , she had prepared for lunch and before that she filled her tanks so that we could bath and get rid of our day long journey's tiredness.

All the arrangements were upto mark , electricity doesnt become a spoil sport she had filled her generator which she uses very rarely, it was ready for us. One special room in her two bedroom house was made ready for us.

[caption id="attachment_741" align="alignnone" width="1024"]One of the Innovations One of the Innovations[/caption]

If we want to sit outside, we dont feel the heat of Rajasthan this innovation which made me hats off to the lady was arranged , but thanks to pleasent weather of Rajasthan it was not needed.

A lady who is the whole sole of her family had arranged this for us , i was overwhelmed.

She is having a family of 5 persons , husband wife and three kids. Eldest of son is studying presently in a college doing Bachelors in Science , second one is in school and Daughter has done some course in saloon.

When talking to her i was amazed to hear her time table or can say the life chart which was just work , work and work and it was hard to find any time for rest. Her husband has started working in some bus as a helper and she do a lot of things.

She looks after her farm land , her buffaloes , in the afternoon she teaches sewing to some two three girls from which she earns some Rs 800. Every day work which come in a daily chores of life are also their.

 

[caption id="attachment_742" align="alignnone" width="678"]Mrs. Sharmila Yadav Showing her farm land Mrs. Sharmila Yadav Showing her farm land to my wife[/caption]

Entering of stray animals in the farmland is a very common thing worldwide and same is here , for this she sleeps in night in her farmland only. For every person atleast a 8hr good sleep is must but after knowing her schedule i was curious to hear when i would hear that she would say from this time to this time i sleep , though she sleeps in farm but as she says i have be almost awake to make animals run away from my farm.

In the night she had different plans for us.

[caption id="attachment_743" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Wood fired chapati Wood fired chapati[/caption]

 

_DSC0068

 

It was somewhere around 15 yrs since i had not eaten these wood fired Chapati on chullah ( earthen stove) , but i still remember the taste. I was over joyed when she told me that i would be cooking these for you today , though they have gas stoves also but for me they had arranged this.

[caption id="attachment_745" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Hand made sauce Hand made sauce[/caption]

Some different type of sauce was made for me , dont know much of ingredients but curd, red chilli and salt was there and one more thing was added but i was unaware of that thing , never had heard of it, but when it was served it was something which i was tasting for first time and i was loving it and want to have it again.

It was quite late at night now and we left for sleep, long drive tiredness had started showing its signs now.

surprises by the lady was not over , next morning my first sight was again something which made me feel something special about that lady. Early morning 7 AM and she is back to work.

[caption id="attachment_746" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Cutting the fodder for her buffalo Cutting the fodder for her buffalo[/caption]

I also tried my hand on it , but trust me it is not that easy. Rolling it over and over again was possible but keep on rolling and finishing the task was something which i found difficult for myself.

Obviously there are some cons of metro life as well.

We moved from there giving our warm wishes to Mrs. Sharmila and her family.

According to latest news, the room in which we stayed she has opened a small shop now and she had bought some equipments and beauty products for her daughter who has started working as a beautician in her village and helps in earning some money for her family.

This is what the life of a village lady is in India.

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday 21 August 2013

Bon Appetit...Enjoyed Best Veg food in Jaipur, Ganesh Restaurant and shopping...

Starting the day early and being most of time on foot i knew i was tired and hungry now. It was time for lunch and i was looking for something different and best in all aspects to eat. In my previous trips i had eaten on poshest of restaurants and infact whole my life.

Sick of same old taste now my tongue and stomach has started ask for something different. I asked my driver where we can have a nice vegetarian food but should cost less. He had been to jaipur many a times and knows every corner like a back of his hand and i was looking for best veg dhaba in Jaipur . His first and last suggestion was Ganesh Restaurant , try this sir and you will forget any other resto , this dhaba will over shadow all you have been till now.

We reached their quite late , it is in Nehru Bazaar and same old problem which i have faced in this area before also was finding the place to park my car , atlast after some 20min we were able to find one.

[caption id="attachment_730" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Ganesh Restaurant , Jaipur Ganesh Restaurant , Jaipur[/caption]

This restaurant was above the shops , moving through very congested stairs this board was the first glimpse.

Surprise to see was that when we reached there, I saw one couple of tourist sitting there and having there food. I asked my driver is it that famous , and i was interupted by the owner saying sir we get the maximum footfall of foreign tourists and we are lucky enough that we hold a position on tripadvisor also , thanks to the visitors.

 

[caption id="attachment_731" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Sitting Area , Ganesh Restaurant , Jaipur Sitting Area , Ganesh Restaurant , Jaipur[/caption]

As was expected the ambience was like that only , A simple restaurant with just some benches to sit providing some sitting place for only 16 persons. But ambience for me was not at all in the list as i wanted to be at like this place only and i was enjoying it.

Next thing was to order some food , we got the menu, ordered very simple food, though i asked to owner what is your best and he was very modest in saying " whatever you order sir, you will get the best ". It impressed me a lot and i wanted to test his words.

[caption id="attachment_732" align="alignnone" width="1024"]My food being Prepared My food being Prepared[/caption]

Their kitchen was just in front of us , and where i was sitting it was just back of me and from there i could guide him what not to add and what to.

Food took some 15 to be served, but i would say when i had the first bite one word came from my heart " Awesome " though very next one line came from my mouth " Wait a bit , its very hot " .

I was confused , whether it was excitement or i was that much hungry that i dint even waited to let it cool a lil bit as it was directly served to us from the fire.

Whatever, Ganesh Restaurant was proving itself as the best and the every word of owner was coming out to be true.

We were three people, we had a proper lunch and surprising thing was when bill came it was just Rs 270 , what else to expect.

Had a lovely visit and the food was awesome of Ganesh Restaurant . If one is vegetarian and want to visit a pure veg restaurant in Jaipur then do visit this Restaurant.

We left from there and it was time to shopping , it was obvious i knew this as this restaurant is in the main shopping area of Jaipur , and it had attracted my wife. Now what to say, shopping was on.

[caption id="attachment_733" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Nehru Bazaar , Jaipur Nehru Bazaar , Jaipur[/caption]

We went for shopping spree , but before that little bit of window shopping was must. It was pre decided what she had to buy but it is common, window shopping is must.

[caption id="attachment_734" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Lakh ki chudiya Indian Bangles (Laakh ki chudiya)[/caption]

We bought some of these , Rajasthan is famous for these Indian Bangles "Laakh ki Chudiya". They are very famous in girls for their sturdyness and designs. Now what to write about this dont know much about them now.

Time to move on and now was the time to move back to Delhi as some more interesting things were on the way and i had prior commitments toward them and was eagerly waiting for it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday 18 August 2013

One and a Quarter Flag....mystery solved... Jaipur

I was at Jaigarh fort when i saw for first time two flags hoisting on the fort , though both were same but the size were different. I was bit curious about this and i asked my driver about this, he was also bit confused.

[caption id="attachment_726" align="alignnone" width="678"]One and a Quarter Flag Atop Jaigarh Fort One and a Quarter Flag Atop Jaigarh Fort[/caption]

I had never seen this thing in my life before. I knew this thing that every royal family of every state has his own flags which are still hoisted on their private properties but two flags just differing in sizes was quite unique.

Quite perplexed i moved forward , my next stop was city palace , Jaipur.

There also i saw same one and a quarter flag above the Chandra Mahal. Now it was getting more and more interesting , though i was guessing some but was not getting any near to conclusion.

[caption id="attachment_721" align="alignnone" width="1024"]One and a Quarter Flag above the Chandra Mahal , Jaipur One and a Quarter Flag above the Chandra Mahal , Jaipur[/caption]

We met one official guard there who was sitting very next to "Gangajalis" . I asked him why there are two flags being hoisted above the Palace and same i saw on Jaigarh fort.

It took him somewhere around 15min to tell us the whole story , but i think those 15 min were the most worthy of time spent.

As he said " These two flags symbolises the presence of King in Jaipur city , the quarter flag is of the king and the bigger one is of the queen. Whenever King used to go out of the city one single flag was hoisted on the palace and when he used to come back a smaller one was added to it which automatically sends the message that king has arrived " thats why it is called One and a Quarter Flag.

That guard went more further and told us an anecdote about the 'one and quarter flag', which is the insignia flag of the Maharajas of Jaipur.

He told when Emperor Aurangzeb came to attend the wedding of Jai Singh, shook hands with the young groom and wished him well on his marriage. On this occasion, Jai Singh made an irreverent remark to the Emperor stating that the way he had shaken hands with him made it incumbent on the Emperor to protect him (Jai Singh) and his kingdom. Aurangzeb, instead of responding in indignation at the quip, felt pleased and conferred on the young Jai Singh the title of 'Sawai', which means "one and a quarter".

Since then the Maharajas have pre-fixed their names with this title. During residence there, they also fly a one and a quarter size flag atop their buildings and palaces.


The time when we visited Jaipur ,Kumar Padmanabh Singh present king of Jaipur and who is studying in Mayo college, Ajmer had came to jaipur and the reason being One and a Quarter Flag was being hoisted.

For me that One and a Quarter Flag  mystery solved , thanks to the guard of city Palace.

My trip was turning very interesting and what was expected this time was going much deeper into the history of the royal family of Jaipur.

 

 

Friday 16 August 2013

14000 silver coins and one silver Jar.... City Palace Jaipur

Now was the time to visit the landmark of city , City Palace , Jaipur. This place is mine of historical things but sadest part is this that most of the sections are barred from Photography.

[caption id="attachment_712" align="alignnone" width="1024"]City Palace , Jaipur City Palace , Jaipur[/caption]

This palace includes Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal  , two sections of palace in which Chandra Mahal is turned into museum but still maximum portion of palace is used as royal residence of Royal family of Jaipur.

somewhere around 4000 workers are angaged in the services of palace presently taking care of both residence and museum and their salary is extracted out of the tickets sold to the tourist who come to see the museum, as was told by one of those 4000 workers to whom i interacted a bit.

According to him the sole purpose of this museum is to maintain the property .

[caption id="attachment_713" align="alignnone" width="768"]Silver Jar made of 14000 silver coins Silver Jar made of 14000 silver coins[/caption]

This was a treat to the eyes. A silver jar made during the reign of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II . As it is mentioned there , Maharaja used to drink water of river ganges only, water was brought from the nearest source and was stored in these big silver jars.

It took two years for the silver smiths to make this possible. 14000 silver coins and one silver jar , two jars have been placed there. As it is mentioned in front of them they are mentioned in Guiness book of world record also as the largest silver made objects.

Something which made me surprised was the technique used by the silver smiths. In the making of jar no smoldering was used , silver coins were melted to make them as thin sheets and then sheets were moulded in the shape of Jars and even the handle and ladder were also made to pour water in them as they are 5'3" tall.

Truely an amazing thing to see. I have seen this thing many a times the more backward i had gone in time i have found more surprising things done by the rulers of that time.

Same was done by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II , when he went to England for the coronation ceremony of Edward VII in 1902 he took these jars along with him filled with Ganges holy water.

City Palace has been filled with the artistic work of that time , whether it is armoury of rulers of that time or the paintings or the leisure things.

[caption id="attachment_714" align="alignnone" width="678"]Hand Made wooden Carts Hand Made wooden Carts[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_716" align="alignnone" width="678"]A design made out of Rifles used at that time A design made out of Rifles used at that time[/caption]

 

Somethings were seriously a treat to my eyes and brain both and somethings were topic of discussion. In the Armoury section i saw many things made of Crystal , Gold , Silver and above all every things was replicated with same design using elephant teeth, whether that was sword handle or back scratcher . Yes i am right even they used to scratch there back using Gold silver or crystal scratchers.

I happen to see the hall also where the recent coronation of present king His Highness Padmanabh Singh who is just 15 yrs old now. This hall boasts paintings made in some 13th - 14th century, a carpet which is somewhere around 400 yrs old and the second biggest chandelier.

2 hrs passed , a lot scene , and very less captured thanks to the strict staff who were warning of not to click pictures otherwise camera's would be confiscated. But still all in all a place where i would visit again whenever i am in jaipur for next time but this time with a copy and pen atleast.

 

 

Tuesday 13 August 2013

History unfolds at every stop.... Nahargarh fort

History unfolds at every stop in Rajasthan and may be it is the reason why Rajasthan has been the main tourist destination of India.

I have always been in love with those places which holds some historical presence in them and this trip of mine was giving me opportunity to be close with the historical places which had made their mark in India's history.

My car's next stop over was Nahargarh Fort ( meaning Abode of Tigers ) , standing on the edge of the Aravalli Hills Built mainly in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, the fort was constructed as a place of retreat on the summit of the ridge above the city.

[caption id="attachment_694" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Nahargarh fort , Jaipur Nahargarh fort , Jaipur[/caption]

 

At the start of its construction was supposed to be named as Sudarshan garh Fort but as the folk lores tell , construction was obstructed by the spirit of Nahar Singh Bhoomia. To make this forts construction possible one temple was built inside the fort to pacify Nahar Singh Bhoomia and which gave this fort its Name Nahargarh Fort.

[caption id="attachment_695" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Compound of the fort Compound of the fort[/caption]

Its inside compound is a long gallery , having some rooms and every room or call it a section are named after the princess's. Main two rooms one just above the entry of the palace and the other one just opposite to it were of the King and the 1st wife of him.

One guard working there helped us in telling the history of the palace and gave us a good detail knowledge of every corner of the palace, he just charged some Rs 20, that too which we gave he dint even asked for anything.

We were getting very tired , sun had come right on top of us and it was unbearable and we needed some rest. We were lucky , this palace has got Restaurants also inside it and on of them provides stay facility also there in Palace only.

[caption id="attachment_704" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Resto @ Nahargarh Fort Resto @ Nahargarh Fort[/caption]

This Restaurant, as was told by the management holds the artefacts and furniture used by the royal family that time in Nahargarh fort. Though they have lost the charm a bit , but still when sitting on them one could feel the history and the era.

[caption id="attachment_706" align="alignnone" width="1024"]View of Jaipur from the window of the Restaurant View of Jaipur from the window of the Restaurant[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_705" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Jaipur view from Nahargarh fort Jaipur view from Nahargarh fort[/caption]

This Palace has got the breath taking view of the jaipur city. One could see the top view or can say whole jaipur city spread in miles from there. It is very common for local people to go their in the night as well and enjoy a long drive or we can say this historical place has turned out as the local picnic spot in the nights as its entry is open till late night also.

My next trip is surely going to cover that breath taking view of Jaipur , shining in light as it was not possible for me to go their this time at night.

[caption id="attachment_707" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Tree at Nahargarh fort... standing there from ages.. Tree at Nahargarh fort... standing there from ages..[/caption]

Dont know whether this is true or not or can say i need to to carbon dating of this tree to verify what that guard told me. According to him this tree has been standing there in the courtyard since that time when this fort was not built. It was prohibited by the architects to cut this tree and to remain it there only as this tree had some relation with Nahar Singh Bhoomia.

My sole interest was just to click this tree and i had no interest knowing much about his relation with anybody , as i know these folk lores changes mouth to mouth and there is never a full proof authenticity of them.

I was ready to leave, half day had passed and it was getting very tiring to stand in the sun there.

 

 

 

Sunday 11 August 2013

Standing from ages guarding the city....Jaivana Cannon

[caption id="attachment_687" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Jaivana Cannon Jaivana Cannon[/caption]

JAIVANA CANNON.... something of which i had heard a lot but this time it was in front of me. Build in 1772 and considered as the biggest Cannon of its time.

May be Maharaja Sawai Jaisingh II foresightedness made him to give orders to make such a huge cannon , having the range of 22 miles and needed 100 Kg of Gun powder for a single shot.

It was the time of plunders and wars , every ruler was worried about threats from both outsiders and insiders , which made them to think different and keep themselves safe.

Jaigarh fort was built to save Amber fort , and for the same reason Jaivana Cannon is Placed on top of the Jaigarh fort.

May be its presence only made its impact and it was never being used except only once when it was tested. Standing from ages gaurding the city Jaivana Cannon is still considered as the Guard of the whole Jaipur city , and is worshipped by royal family on all important festivals.

 

Jaigarh Fort... Guarding Amber Fort...

 Jaigarh fort , built on “Hill of Eagles” in Aravali range of Jaipur built to guard the Amber fort to which it looks from the top by that time ruler Jai singh II on whose name was named as Jaigarh fort. This is the first time when i am hearing that ” A fort guarding a fort ” something which is very unusual.
Never heard of this thing and cant even imagine what the rulers were thinking that time to guard a fort build one more fort.

First time i was seeing this that car was allowed inside the Fort area. We passed right to top of the fort with my Car only.

one would find these type of squared holes in the walls of any fort one visit. These were used by the soldiers to guard they used to keep there guns inside them to aim the enemy. Same was here but here these holes were guarding a fort from the enemies.
Jaigarh Fort walls are built with such angle that from every window one gets the view of Amber Fort , and if that would not be then it would not solve the whole purpose to build this extra fort.

As i was not getting the perfect view of Amber fort top view i tried to click by climbing over the wall to have this magnificient view of the Amber fort. Right in front of the fort Maota lake was made which was used as water reservoir that time and now a days it is used as water reservoir for Elephants which are used by tourists to ride to Amber fort.

Saturday 10 August 2013

A Fort guarding a Fort....Jaigarh fort

Day 2 was going to start quite early. My greedy backpack was ready with his greedy list to be unchecked.

Topping the list was Jaigarh fort , built on "Hill of Eagles" in Aravali range of Jaipur built to guard the Amber fort to which it looks from the top by that time ruler Jai singh II on whose name was named as Jaigarh fort. This is the first time when i am hearing that " A fort guarding a fort " something which is very unusual.

Never heard of this thing and cant even imagine what the rulers were thinking that time to guard a fort build one more fort.

fort was some 30min away from my hotel The Theme. Weather was awesome, little bit of drizzle in the night had made the morning very misty but it was soothing and a great day to drive in Rajasthan.

First time i was seeing this that car was allowed inside the Fort area. We passed right to top of the fort with my Car only.

[caption id="attachment_670" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Jaigarh fort , Jaipur Jaigarh fort , Jaipur[/caption]

Once this place was more lively , now it has lost its charm. But still if i compare it with the fort of Gwalior which i visited recently i would say it is much better maintained. This fort is still maintained by the Royal Family of Rajasthan and the money collected from the tickets is spent on the fort only.

[caption id="attachment_671" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Boundry wall Boundry wall[/caption]

one would find these type of squared holes in the walls of any fort one visit. These were used by the soldiers to guard they used to keep there guns inside them to aim the enemy. Same was here but here these holes were guarding a fort from the enemies.

[caption id="attachment_672" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Amber fort Amber fort from the wind[/caption]

Jaigarh Fort walls are built with such angle that from every window one gets the view of Amber Fort , and if that would not be then it would not solve the whole purpose to build this extra fort.

[caption id="attachment_673" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Top view of Amber fort.. Top view of Amber fort..[/caption]

As i was not getting the perfect view of Amber fort top view i tried to click by climbing over the wall to have this magnificient view of the Amber fort. Right in front of the fort Maota lake was made which was used as water reservoir that time and now a days it is used as water reservoir for Elephants which are used by tourists to ride to Amber fort.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday 8 August 2013

Tour to Rajasthan

Now was the time to visit the most sought after states of India in Tourism sector. Not going to be my 1st tour to Rajasthan but this time modus operandy is going to be different. Previous time’s when i had visited i was not a #Traveller Blogger or #photographer. This time it was going to be a long drive as i was travelling with my brand new Mahindra Quanto and it was much awaited ride.
Tour is hectic, not enough time to rest but every moment would be captured and enjoyed adding into my memories.
Followed my instincts and planned my whole trip. Day 1 was going to be more hectic and i would be covering very less places and only those places which i had seen before also in much detail and this time they would be deserving some glance only. Its not that they are not worth of second visit but my schedule didnt allowed me to do so.
Left early in the morning for Jaipur , it would be taking atleast 5hrs to reach but i knew i was going to be late as i know myself i would be taking lot of stop over’s as my greedy backpack includes a greedy camera also.
We reached jaipur as it was expected 1hr late , but before checking in hotel i had to cover some places as in evening prior commitments were not going to give me much time.
My first halt was at HAWA MAHAL.

Hawa Mahal , Jaipur


Call it as Palace Of Winds as Full flow of winds enter into his small but 953 windows and is the main feature of Hawa Mahal, though i didnt even tried to count these windows this is what guides or books tell of. Built in 1799 by Kachhwaha Rajput ruler, Sawai Pratap Singh, grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh who built Jaipur.
Purdah system (which is still followed in many families of India ) was followed by the Rajputs is said to be one of the main causes of the construction of this palace. During those days, Rajput royal women did not appear in public or in front of strangers. However, they were keen to follow the day-to-day events and royal processions occurring on the streets. It is for their benefit that the Hawa Mahal was built, complete with small windows and screened balconies. This gave the women a sense of freedom, without appearing in public.
I was lucky enough to have been able to click pictures of Hawa Mahal this time as on my previous visits it was under maintenance and was covered by bamboo scaffolding.
Just a stop of 15min was sufficient there. My next stop over was going to be ALBERT HALL.
Albert Hall , Jaipur

Named after Albert Edward , Prince of Wales who visited Jaipur in 1876 , and foundation stone of this monument was laid. Located in the centre of Circling roads is one of the main attractions of Jaipur . Beautiful carvings describe on its own the hard work given by the labour of that time who made it possible and this whole complex was completed in years time by 1877.
Now it inhabits a Museum displaying works of Industrial arts by local craftsmen coming from different parts of India.
As it is on the circle between the roads it was turning out very tough for me to capture a perfect click. This same car stopped there twice to feed these pigeons . Many people come at this place to feed pigeons. And as soon as this car moved, dont know what was happening same car same model came again and had to click picture with it only.
I moved for my next stopover and it was going to be Amber Fort.
Amber Fort , Jaipur

Amber (pronounced Amer) is situated about 11 kilometres from Jaipur and was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachwahas of Amber, before the capital was shifted to the plains, the present day Jaipur.  Constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh the fort was made in red sand stone and white marble.
I had visited this place in detail in my previous trips and i was much aware of it what was inside it. That time i was not at all impressed by what the government of India who owns this and only this fort in Jaipur , rest of forts still owned by the Royal Family of Jaipur.
At some places had got very beautiful architecture but at many places restoration work by the archeological department has ruined the original beauty of this majestic palace.
This thing had hurted me a lot before and i had fixed that i was going to take picture from outside only which still holds its naturality like the way it was when built in 1592.
Jal Mahal , Jaipur

My next and last stop over of the day before i reach my hotel JAL MAHAL. It  is getting very tiring, 9 hrs have gone and i am on the continuous move and my knees are now cursing me.
Many mysteries continue to surround the pleasure palace of Jal Mahal. It is known to be about 300 years old, but its precise date of construction remains undiscovered. Just a pavilion with a terrace garden in Man Sagar Lake, built in the Rajasthani tradition of ‘island resorts’ or ‘water palaces’ where royal families would seek their ‘pleasure’.
I think a year back or so it was in news that it would be handed over to some Chinese company who would be managing it as a tourist place and would start a boat ride towards it , some how that news has faded away, got tangeled in some controversies and died its own death.
I am still waiting when i would be able to go inside this majestic palace. But till now i have to suffice myself and all the readers with this pic only.
Atlast i am going to reach my hotel in some 10min more but the hectic day doesnt end here.












Tour to Rajasthan - Started

Now was the time to visit the most sought after states of India in Tourism sector. Not going to be my 1st tour to Rajasthan but this time modus operandy is going to be different. Previous time's when i had visited i was not a #Traveller Blogger or #photographer. This time it was going to be a long drive as i was travelling with my brand new Mahindra Quanto and it was much awaited ride.

Tour is hectic, not enough time to rest but every moment would be captured and enjoyed adding into my memories.

Followed my instincts and planned my whole trip. Day 1 was going to be more hectic and i would be covering very less places and only those places which i had seen before also in much detail and this time they would be deserving some glance only. Its not that they are not worth of second visit but my schedule didnt allowed me to do so.

Left early in the morning for Jaipur , it would be taking atleast 5hrs to reach but i knew i was going to be late as i know myself i would be taking lot of stop over's as my greedy backpack includes a greedy camera also.

We reached jaipur as it was expected 1hr late , but before checking in hotel i had to cover some places as in evening prior commitments were not going to give me much time.

My first halt was at HAWA MAHAL.

[caption id="attachment_664" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Hawa Mahal , Jaipur Hawa Mahal , Jaipur[/caption]

 

Call it as Palace Of Winds as Full flow of winds enter into his small but 953 windows and is the main feature of Hawa Mahal, though i didnt even tried to count these windows this is what guides or books tell of. Built in 1799 by Kachhwaha Rajput ruler, Sawai Pratap Singh, grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh who built Jaipur.

Purdah system (which is still followed in many families of India ) was followed by the Rajputs is said to be one of the main causes of the construction of this palace. During those days, Rajput royal women did not appear in public or in front of strangers. However, they were keen to follow the day-to-day events and royal processions occurring on the streets. It is for their benefit that the Hawa Mahal was built, complete with small windows and screened balconies. This gave the women a sense of freedom, without appearing in public.

I was lucky enough to have been able to click pictures of Hawa Mahal this time as on my previous visits it was under maintenance and was covered by bamboo scaffolding.

Just a stop of 15min was sufficient there. My next stop over was going to be ALBERT HALL.

[caption id="attachment_665" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Albert Hall , Jaipur Albert Hall , Jaipur[/caption]

 

Named after Albert Edward , Prince of Wales who visited Jaipur in 1876 , and foundation stone of this monument was laid. Located in the centre of Circling roads is one of the main attractions of Jaipur . Beautiful carvings describe on its own the hard work given by the labour of that time who made it possible and this whole complex was completed in years time by 1877.

Now it inhabits a Museum displaying works of Industrial arts by local craftsmen coming from different parts of India.

As it is on the circle between the roads it was turning out very tough for me to capture a perfect click. This same car stopped there twice to feed these pigeons . Many people come at this place to feed pigeons. And as soon as this car moved, dont know what was happening same car same model came again and had to click picture with it only.

I moved for my next stopover and it was going to be Amber Fort.

[caption id="attachment_666" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Amer fort , Jaipur Amber fort , Jaipur[/caption]

Amber (pronounced Amer) is situated about 11 kilometres from Jaipur and was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachwahas of Amber, before the capital was shifted to the plains, the present day Jaipur.  Constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh the fort was made in red sand stone and white marble.

I had visited this place in detail in my previous trips and i was much aware of it what was inside it. That time i was not at all impressed by what the government of India who owns this and only this fort in Jaipur , rest of forts still owned by the Royal Family of Jaipur.

At some places had got very beautiful architecture but at many places restoration work by the archeological department has ruined the original beauty of this majestic palace.

This thing had hurted me a lot before and i had fixed that i was going to take picture from outside only which still holds its naturality like the way it was when built in 1592.

[caption id="attachment_667" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Jal Mahal , Jaipur Jal Mahal , Jaipur[/caption]

 

My next and last stop over of the day before i reach my hotel JAL MAHAL. It  is getting very tiring, 9 hrs have gone and i am on the continuous move and my knees are now cursing me.

Many mysteries continue to surround the pleasure palace of Jal Mahal. It is known to be about 300 years old, but its precise date of construction remains undiscovered. Just a pavilion with a terrace garden in Man Sagar Lake, built in the Rajasthani tradition of ‘island resorts’ or ‘water palaces’ where royal families would seek their ‘pleasure’.

I think a year back or so it was in news that it would be handed over to some Chinese company who would be managing it as a tourist place and would start a boat ride towards it , some how that news has faded away, got tangeled in some controversies and died its own death.

I am still waiting when i would be able to go inside this majestic palace. But till now i have to suffice myself and all the readers with this pic only.

Atlast i am going to reach my hotel in some 10min more but the hectic day doesnt end here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday 1 August 2013

Travel Tips for Manali

 


Manali is full of natural beauty and there are many places which are quite far off from the main Manali Valley , I would suggest atleast a 4 day trip to be planned to cover maximum of locations.

 

I travelled from New Delhi by a Volvo Bus and it took 15hrs to reach there. Though there is train connection also but it reaches to plains only and from there 7 hrs drive by bus or car to reach Manali Valley. But as far as my personal suggestion is I would recommend a all car journey till the end as it would save you from the Air conditioned Jail ( this is what I coined for a Volvo Bus after that 15 hr Journey ) and above all whole journey goes through the beautifull valleys before Manali which deserve atleast a 10min stop over to enjoy the beauty and it will give your legs rest a bit and would charge your eyes as well.

 

If travelling by Volvo then choose night journey and if travelling by car I would recommend only Day journey. One whole day for drive and night for rest and start your actual Manali trip from the next day after a full night rest.

 

Travelling by car would save your money being spent on Taxi’s there and would give you the freedom to choose how much time to be spent at which place. One can travel by their own car at all places except Rohtang pass where it is not allowed to go without a taxi  Authorised by Manali Taxi union.

 

Buy a booklet of places to be visited from Mall road Manali on reaching their.

 

Try to leave for far of places as early in morning as possible to save yourself from Traffic Jams , yes you would find Traffic jams there in Manali as well , they are not patented for Metro cities only. Keep the rest of day for your own excursions as fixed itenary’s are bound to change according to the mood of the traveler and the mood of the weather

 

Rohtang pass is 3 hrs away from the Manali valley or can say Mall road and same is for Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara.They would be covered on different days and Rohtang Pass deserves more time than Manikaran.


What Not To Be Missed And What Can Be Missed..........


Rohtang Pass


[caption id="attachment_381" align="alignnone" width="150"]Rohtang Pass Rohtang Pass[/caption]

This is the most visited spot of Manali . It is some 3 Hrs away from Mall road so it is going to take almost a full day. While going there Many places comes in between like Rahla Naala, Nehru Kund, solang valley and Kothi village. Nehru Kund is waste of time , i dint even stopped my car their and this you will realise when your driver will say this is Nehru Kund. For more Click HERE..

Solang Valley is known for sports activities like Skiing and Paragliding. But for Paragliding you would find a much better location before solang valley ( tell your driver to stop there ) , it would provide much longer stay in air.

Rahla Naala


[caption id="attachment_404" align="alignnone" width="150"]Rahla Naala Rahla Naala[/caption]

Is a water fall , deserves only some 10min stop over , though time could be increased as you would find a very nice eating joint there serving hot maggi which would suit best there. For more Click HERE.

Kothi Village


[caption id="attachment_418" align="alignnone" width="150"]Kothi Village Kothi Village[/caption]

Is shooting location for Bollywood movies , a very good restaurant is their on the road if one wants to have a full meal on the way. for more click HERE.

Hidimba Devi Temple


[caption id="attachment_447" align="alignnone" width="150"]Hidimba Devi Temple Hidimba Devi Temple[/caption]

Temple Surrounded by huge deodar trees , built in 16th century. Must have seen it many movies like Roja or the latest hit Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani. Do visit it , will give you a new insight to the culture of Manali and an aesthetic place never to be missed. For more click HERE.

Green Forest Cafe


[caption id="attachment_431" align="alignnone" width="150"]Green Forest Cafe Green Forest Cafe[/caption]

If you love Dimsums then this is the best place to eat in India specially their chilly sauce will make it an unforgetable visit. Ask anybody way to Green Forest Cafe in whole Manali they will tell you , no need to confuse or if i suggest just walk down the back stairs of Hidimba Devi Temple and you have reached Green Forest Cafe. For more click HERE.

Looking for some Goan type shopping , punk style shopping then just walk past Green forest Cafe and after some 5min you will find a tent shop best suited for this type of shopping.

 

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara


[caption id="attachment_475" align="alignnone" width="150"]Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara[/caption]

Some 3 Hrs away from Mall road. Known for its hot water springs and all time running langar. Leave as early as possible in the morning. For More Click HERE.

[caption id="attachment_457" align="alignnone" width="150"]Safety measures for River Rafting Safety measures for River Rafting[/caption]

While going to Manikaran keep yourself ready for River Rafting which is the most sought after activity in Manali Valley. You may opt for river rafting while going to Manikaran or while coming back but do keep extra clothes for your self. For more Click HERE.

Kasol Valley


[caption id="attachment_500" align="alignnone" width="150"]Kasol Valley Kasol Valley[/caption]

Kasol Valley, Just some 15min before Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara you will happen to land at this place. Keep some time for this place i would say atleast an Hour , and if your whole day is free after Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara and your are through with river rafting then this place could be an ideal place to rest and enjoy the delicacies of the world and enjoy shopping very nice stuff available here. For more click HERE.

Club House


[caption id="attachment_564" align="alignnone" width="150"]Roses @ club house Roses @ club house[/caption]

Club House, a place for all those who are travelling with kids. This place would be a feast for kids as you would find many activities for kids. Rope swing , train ride , ice creams etc all for kids you will find here.

One must see roses of Manali and if you wish to be near to them then club house rose garden is must place. But dont pluck roses as it would charge you a penalty of Rs 100 per rose. For More click HERE.

 

Food Joints Not To Be missed .......................



Johnsons Cafe and Lodge 


[caption id="attachment_505" align="alignnone" width="150"]Johnsons Cafe Johnsons Cafe[/caption]

Love coffee whether hot or cold visit Johnsons cafe. Love to spend time with friends and hangout with the taste of best of wines and whisky visit Johnsons cafe. One of the oldest of restaurant and lodge of Manali is waiting for all the travellers to serve the best. A must stop is recommended , or you can dedicate one dinner or lunch of your trip to this place. For more Click HERE.

La Plaze


[caption id="attachment_525" align="alignnone" width="150"]La Plaze Manali La Plaze Manali[/caption]

Located just 900 mts away from club house , surrounded by apple farms and river beas flowing just in front it. Serving the best of French food and wines. Soothing place to sit and a perfect ambience for a hangout. Prefer it for a lunch as it would give you the best view of the valley from there. For more click HERE.

Casa Bella Vista


[caption id="attachment_533" align="alignnone" width="150"]casa bella vista casa bella vista[/caption]

Want to have best pizza of India visit this place. Located on the bank of river beas and serving you the best wood fired pizza available in India. It gives feasibility of stay also and you may inquire about room availabilty in advance. For more Click HERE.

I have mentioned four restaurants in this whole write up. you may prefer them day by day according to your location.

Glacier Resorts Manali 


[caption id="attachment_595" align="alignnone" width="150"]Glacier Resort Glacier Resort[/caption]

A best of Hotel of Manali. Suited best for Couples and even to groups. Located very idealy near to Hidimba Devi Temple and Club House. Just walk away from Johnsons Cafe. For More click HERE. Want some more options for Hotels click HERE.

Note : There are many places also to visit in Manali like Tibetan monastery, Manali Sanctuary, many other temples etc. but due to my tight schedule i was not able to visit them so i have not mentioned about them here but these also are worth giving your visit though i was not lucky enough. If any of Fellow traveller visit some places which are not mentioned here they are most welcome to write their experience in the guest blog section of my greedy backpack.

Some Tips......


In most of the places you will find NO VAT. So enjoy.

If one is going by car then expenditure may vary according to the car being driven , but prefer a SUV.

Keep woollen clothes , if going in Summer, then also. Whether can change without any prior notice.

Mall Road is ideal place for shopping , but do bargain a lot and try to keep options open.

ATM of almost every Indian and Private Bank is available on Mall Road , so try to carry less cash.

Try to buy just room package ( food not included ) when opting for a Hotel. As due to weather conditions food gets cold very fast in buffet, so try to ordering food in room only or visit some restaurant.

 

 

Enjoy your Manali Trip......... Lets tour to india