Goa trip on the eve of my birthday

This is a very special trip for me as we planned this for my birthday celebrations in Rocking Goa and this visit happened after a hiatus of 8 years.We started on a friday night from Kacheguda Railway station by train at 9 PM and reached Madgaon at 1:45 PM on saturday.The train route is very scenic once u cross Castle Rock railway station and we get to see marvelous Dudh Sagar waterfall and beautiful hills with various ghat sections and thrilling tunnels in route to Goa.
We took accommodation within the city and then at 2:30 PM, We started to Colva Beach,6 km from Madgaon.We took a bike at our Hotel and started exploring the beaches of South Goa.

DAY 1 :
Our route for that Half day
Madgaon -----> Colva ----> Benaulim

Colva Beach : Colva is the longest beach in Goa.It is the most popular beach in South Goa and is pretty much full of Indian tourists.The line of coconut trees is a big attraction here and the water also looks great and shores hit hard and makes a good swim in the b each.The beach also got lot of water sports such as para sailing,Speed boat etc.We dint tried any sports as we did nt want to try all those on first day itself.We spent around 2 hrs there and at 5 PM,we started to Benaulim Beach which is at 2 km from Colva.


Para Sailing and all other water sports entices tourists in Colva Beach

Benaulim Beach : Benaulim is not a crowded nor a popular beach like Colva and hence we see very very less tourists here.Mostly locals play beach volley ball etc here and there are not that many Beach shacks also here.But this beach offers privacy for all those couples and all to have a lovely bath…It was my birthday and I had cake cutting at the beach as there was very very less crowd at the location.Sunset was awesome at this beach and we enjoyed a lot at that beach and departed from there at 7 PM.There are few good number of Resorts and Quality Hotels near Benualim Beach and we had dinner at an Italian Restaurant and then left to our Hotel and reached there at 10 PM.


Lovely Sunset at Benaulim Beach

DAY 2 :
The next morning,we got ready by 8:00 AM and checked out our hotel and then took a bus to Panjim from Kadamba Bus Station in Madgaon.And at 9:00 AM,we were at Panjim Bus station and then we hired a bike from there.Our first activity was to unload our luggage at our resort at Calangute so we were off to Calangute which is at 16 km from Panjim.We checked into our hotel and at 10:30 AM,we started exploring the beaches in that area.We first headed to Candolim Beach which is 4 km from Calangute Beach in route to Fort Aguada.

The route was like this
Panjim ----> Calangute ------> Baga - Calangute -----> Candolim ----->Sinquerrim --->Fort Aguada

Candolim Beach : Lovely and awesome are the words tha t I would like to use to describe this beach.A beach full of Foreigners and the Beach Shacks here got Bamboo huts and fantastic relaxing beds facing the beach.The beach water allures you and makes you dip into the water.We jumped into the water and played a lot.The water is also not that forceful and one encounter tiny waves and that makes you to cover lot of distance in the water.A beach for couples as it allows privacy.We spent around 3 hrs there and at 2 PM we started to Fort Agauda which is 6 km from Candolim Beach.


Candolim is a marvelous beach

Fort Aguada : Aguada Fort entices lot of Tourists all over as it provides delightful views of Coco Beach from the top.The place is a popular spot for film shootings.One can amble on the Fort and check few View points.All the view points provide majestic views of the Coco beach.We reached the Fort at 2:20 PM.We first enetred through the mian gate and had covereed all the corners of teh fort as there are exceptional view points in all the corners of the Fort.There are some places to sit and take some good snaps.Just when we exit the fort if we go straight and then take left from the main circle,it will lead to the Ehlipad and not that great and if we take left and descend down for around 500 m,then it will take us to Aguada Jail.The jai is now being used and Coco Beach is a border for this jail and hence no tourists are allowed to go to Cocoa Beach.


Fort Aguada is a very prominent site of Goa which allures lot of tourists

Then at 3:10 PM, we started to Sinquerrim beach which is situated 3 km towards Calangute Beach.

Sinquerrim beach: Sinquerrim beach is an extension of Candolim beach and one can even leisurely walk from Candolim beach to Sinquerrim by passing through the sea shore (2-3 km distance). Rocks dominate the major playing area of Sinquerrim so it more like we don’t get the chance to swim or bath in the water. The major attraction of this beach is the exotic view points where there are 2 which one was straight from where we head to major area and the other one is on the extreme left just near the Taj Hotel. Water sports are a big attraction here and also give a great opportunity to explore the fantastic sea locales. We tried Speed boat and it was very worthy. Locals run behind you pleading for rides so beware of them and bargain on rate and go with the right ride which suits you. The beach also offers one of the best views of Goa.


Sinquerrim looks best with nature


We stayed till 4:35 PM there and then left to Baga Beach which is 5 Km from there towards Calangute.
Baga Beach is just 2 km from Calangute Beach as you take right from Calangute beach circle. That 2 Km stretch is full of Hotels and shops and few Shopping centers that showcase the Nepali items. We reached Baga beach at 5 PM

Baga beach: A beach full of Indian Tourists and mostly families. This beach is a hot pick for Indian travelers and the beach bed costs 50 Rs here.In most of the beaches, beach bed is free but over here they charge you if you want to hire a bed. This is yet again very popular for rides and is cozy as well but can be bargainable.The landscapes are impressive and there are lots of sitting areas as the beach is commercially well developed. The water is pure and looks great. We dint really get into the beach as it was almost past 6 PM and also the beach was very crowded. We spent some time roaming within the beach area and then left to our hotel.


Sunset at Baga

We relaxed for some time and then returned to our hotel to take some rest and at 7:45PM, we again visited Candolim beach as the approach road to the beach is full of shops and also beach glitters in the night with multi number of Beach restaurants. So, we spent some time in shopping and then had dinner at one of the beach restaurants in Candolim.The road from Calangute to Candolim is extraordinary with lot of good restaurants and few Shopping Malls and lot of shopping options. This is the road which goes till Fort Aguada and a busy road altogether.

Day 3:
We got early at 6:45 AM and then left to Calangute beach and as the beach is just ½ km from our resort, we planned an early morning bath in the beach.

Calangute beach: Calangute is the most popular beach in Goa.The beach got everything with various water rides, serene nature and delightful water. As it is centrally located between Candolim and Baga the beach got extensively developed as it is a commercial hub with good restaurants and beach shacks. And also we see lot of people swim and bath in this water as this beach entices lot of tourists both Foreigners as well as Indians. This beach makes everyone happy and playing in the water in this beach is well worthy experience and must for all the tourists in Goa.Water Sports are of great craze and in huge demand at this beach and you can try those at this beach. We spent around 2 hrs in the beach and then left to our hotel for refresh.


Early mornings at the most popular beach of Goa

The route we followed for this day

Calangute -----> Anjuna ----> Vagator -----> Chapora Fort

Then at 11 AM, we started to Vagator Beach as we took our next accommodation near Anjuna Beach, we dumped our luggage there and then departed to Vagator beach first. Vagator beach is around 3 km from Anjuna Beach.

Vagator Beach: Vagator is my personal favourite.We reached Vagator Beach at 12 PM and as on we saw the waves swirling around, we jumped into the water. The water is pristine clear and pure and temped us to dive in. We kept on playing various games in the water and spent lot of time in the water and never felt tired. Vagator is with abundant nature with lots of coconut trees. One can see the majestic Chapora fort from the beach and that is an added attraction in the beach. And also the beach offers privacy for all those couples and also there is not much demand for water sports in this beach and that is good when you think of privacy in the beach. It is a placid beach. The beach attracts Foreigners the most and also we see some tourists from India.


Vagator is one of my favourites

Chapora Fort is clearly visible from the beach and one think of climbing up the hill to reach the fort and it offers good picturesque views but try this only if the weather is not hot. But there is an alternate road route to Chapora fort.

Chapora fort: Chapora fort is not as popular as Fort Aguada but very worth visiting as it offers commanding views of the Vagator Beach. We took the road route and reached there at 3:15 PM and even we go by road route we still require to climb up and that route was not that good as it was skidding and also the climb was bit hectic but once you scale up for some distance you get to see the beach from the left side and also the pile up coconut trees on the backside. The area on fort is quite big and is of plentiful grass and various plants. There are quite a few view points on the fort and also we took rest once we climbed up the fort by looking at the thrilling views of the Vagator beach. Chapora fort involves lot of effort compared to Fort Aguada and probably that is reason why Tourists try to give a miss. And also one get to play a lot in Vagator beach and get tired and that tend to ignore climbing the fort but I personally suggest if you have any intention of visiting this fort, then try to climb up from the beach instead of taking the road route and then climbing up. We spent around 1 hr there and then at 4:45 PM, we started to Anjuna Beach.


Chapora got a painful climb but offer exceptional views from the top

We reached Anjuna at 5 PM which is around 5 KM from there and once we enter the main area as the beach is present down and we get some exceptional views of Anjuna beach at a view point on the main road to Anjuna beach and from there we have descend down by walking or by 2-wheeler to make it to the beach. The route from top to the beach area is full of shops and restaurants and once gets to explore a lot on shopping options.

Anjuna Beach: Anjuna is probably the one of the best beaches in Goa and it is also well developed in terms of commercially. The beach attracts lots of Foreigners and Indians as well. The rock structures in the beach forms a big attraction in Anjuna Beach and is a crowd puller. Leisure Walking at Anjuna rocks and is a great time pass. We catched the sunset at the beach and once it gets darker, the night life arises in Anjuna. There are lots of Beach shacks and restaurants and some play live music from evening till midnight. We sat at the beach border and had lovely conversations and then had a walk around the beach and then decided to have dinner at a Restaurant near the beach. They got live music and we were seated at a place where the wave water started hitting our legs very often. And also it was a full moon day and divine water touching out legs and tasted good food. The motley of all these made a delightful and most memorable dinner of our life time. Night dinning at Anjuna is a rewarding experience. The shopping area at Anjuna was open for quite a time in the night and once we finished our dinner, we did some shopping and then left to our hotel. And also every Wednesday, they used to have Anjuna Flea market and we didn’t able to make it as we visited on a Monday.


Anjuna looks best with rocks

Day 4:
The next morning our route was like this

Anjuna -----> Siolim -----> Morjim -----> Asvem ----> Mandrem ----> Arambol ---> Panjim

The penultimate day of our joyful trip and we were off to Northern most region of Goa.It is popular for awesome beaches with less crowds and clean waters.At around 8:30 PM,we started to Morjim beach. It is in the extreme North region and is around 16 km from Anjuna as we first need to go to Siolim and from there need to take the Siolim Bridge on Chapora River.The bridge offers spectacular locales but one cant stop on the bridge to capture those majestic locales.Chapora River is a treat to watch.It is full of coconut trees on one end and boats on water.Our first point was Morjim Beach and near the beach we also get to see the border of Chapora River.


Chapora river is a delight to watch

We first reached Morjim beach at 9:30 AM.

Morjim Beach: It is a lovely beach and a remote one also.Full of Foreigners and the most attractive element over here is the line up of Bamboo huts.Some say,that concept in Goa started here first and then spread to other beaches.A dip in water and drink by sitting on the relaxing bed and then a dip in the water is the best time pass in Morjim as the beach shacks are very near to the water and also water is so pure and makes you swim.As it is remotely located,the beach does not garner too many tourists but nature beauty is bountiful here with coconut trees.We spent around 1 hr there and then started to Asvem Beach which is 4km from Morjim.


Bamboo huts are a special attraction at Morjim

Asvem Beach : It is an extension of Morjim beach along the road and the beach is visible from the hilly road and invites you for fun.Asvem is a big beach and full of coconut tress.We dont get to see that many Bamboo huts here but Asvem got lot of variety as it got small rock structures near the beach and lot of sitting areas and playing areas.There are some fine resorts also near the beach.One get to see lot of Foreigners and very less count of Indians at this beach.And also while visiting to these beaches,it made me feel free from that busy ambience,heavy crowds,rides etc etc.These are beaches for solitude and tranquility.We spent around 1hr there and at 12 PM,we started to Mandrem Beach which is at 3 Km from Asvem beach.


Asvem got divine beauty

Mandrem Beach : Mandrem is conidered as one of the 3 beaches on the Northern most tip along with Arambol and Quernim which is much far from these two.Nature is at its best at Arambol.The beach got long border and we get to see small gaps of sea water away from the main sea water and also one need to walk lot of distance to catch the water at Mandrem as it got a very long border.And also as we see water in the main walking area,in some of the places they laid small wooden bridges and we need to use those walking rails.It was lunch time for us and we had lunch sitting under a bamboo unmbrella and ona relaxing bed.It was sunny and we had lovely lunch.We also relaxed unber the roof for some time and I found Mandrem is the best place to relax.The sereme atmosphere makes you feel relaxed and the whole area is domianted by coconut trees.We got into water and played for some time and then departed from there to Arambol beach at 2:30 PM.Arambol is 6 Km from Mandrem beach.


A placid and superb beach

Arambol Beach : Arambol is the most popular beach in the Northern most area and hence it entices lot of Foreigners and also we see quite a few Indians.The huge rocks structures forms a special attraction here and Arambol is commercially well developed.There are lot of shops just near the main entrance and one get to choose from lot of shopping options.Drink and play in the water is the major activity at Arambol.We did some shopping there and played inside the beach.Arambol also gets crowded sometimes as most of the Tourists cover Arambol alone and go back to the other beaches near Calangute.


The rock formations at the beach are fantastic to watch

The beauty of North most beaches is that in the early morning the water level will be full and is just near the entrance to the beach area but as the day progress,the water level tends to go back and as the day goes on,the water goes far from the main beach area and that is when we need to walk for some distance to catch the water of the beach and at the evening it will back to the normal.We get to notice this at Morjim and Mandrem beaches mostly.

We spent around 2 hrs there and at 5 PM,we started to Panjim.

Reached Panjim at 6 Pm and took refreshments and then at 7:30 PM,we took the criuse on Mandovi River in Panjim.Cruise is of huge importance in Panjim as there are couple of top class Casinos also.We got to seated on a cruise and there were some Goan tradioan dances and group dances as the cruise covers some distance on the Mandovi River.The whole trip lasts for around 1 and half hr as one gets to the blistering beauty of Panjim city in the night.


A top class Casino in Panjim

The next day,the last day of our trip,we went to Old Goa to visit the Augustine Church.It is a huge campus and lot of people visit this place.That was the location of our trip and we bid good bye to Goa at 12:30 PM by starting to Ponda as we have to catch our train to Hyderabad from there.We reached Ponda at 4:30 PM and then boarded our train to Hyderabad at 5:30 PM and reached Hyderabad the next day at 10:30AM and that ended a rocking trip to the magnificent Goa.

General information :
Prices in Goa varies from season to season.It is from September where the mood picks and lot of the tourists visit and from December 15th,the rates increase much more and after Dec 20th till Jan 5th,it will be much costlier.The best vehicle to roam around Goa is scooter or motor bike.There are lot of Bike rental shops and a Honda Activa costs around 300 per day and a Pulsar costs you around 400 per day and a Car costs around 800-1000 per day.There are lot of shops and one get to wear lots of variety dresses and get to taste lots of varietes of food as there are multi cuisine restaurants in Goa.Also,the liquor prices are cheaper compared to the other parts of the country and get the ultimate pleasure of having drink and enjoy at the beaches.
Rides are of huge craze in Goa and they run behind you begging for rides and offer kool prices and they become much more costly in season.So be sure which ride suits you and bargain with them.My ideal preference was to to have accomodation near the beach as that allows us the best chance and saves lot of time.As the whole length of Goa from top to bottom is not more than 75 km,one gets the freedom to stay in any place within Goa and cover places on a day to day basis.
There are lot of provate Jetty Operators at the main Jetty road in Panjim and choose the one of yout choice and please check the timmings as most of them run the evening past sunset.

Distance Details:
Madgaon to Colva -----> 5 Km
Colva to Beanualim -----> 2 Km
Madgaon to Panjim -----> 35 Km
Panjim to Calangute -----> 16 Km
Calangute to Candolim -----> 4 Km
Candolim to Sinquerrim -----> 3 Km
Sinquerrim to Aguada Fort -----> 4 Km
Calangute to Anjuna Beach -----> 8 Km
Anjuna to Vagator -----> 4 Km
Vagator to Chapora Fort -----> 3 Km
Anjuna to Morjim Beach -----> 16 Km
Morjim to Asvem -----> 4 Km
Asvem to Mandrem -----> 3 Km
Mandrem to Arambol -----> 5 Km
Arambol to Mapusa -----> 20 Km
Mapusa to Panjim -----> 15 Km
Arambol beach to Panjim -----> 35 Km
Panjim to Old Goa -----> 16 Km

Type of Trip : Fun Unlimited

Best time to Visit : July to March

Ratings: 4.75

Trip to Rajasthan,Agra and Mathura

As being a frequent traveler all around South India. This time, we decided to travel towards North India.So, as part of that, have planned a visit to the Majestic Rajasthan, Splendid Taj Mahal in Agra and delightful Mathura.

Route:Hyderabad – Agra – Jaipur – Pushkar – Jodhpur – Jaisalmer – Udaipur – Mathura – Delhi – Hyderabad

We boarded an evening train from Secunderabad Station. The train goes till Delhi but it doesn’t stop at Agra and the last stoppage point was Jhansi and hence we decided to get down there. Our train started at 6 PM and reached Jhansi at 12 PM the next day. There is not much to see in Jhansi but it is a gateway to impressive Orcha (18 Km) and fantastic Khajuraho (180 Km).As neither of the above 2 places are not part of this itinerary we ignored those. Then we had lunch and refreshments in Jhansi and then took Taj Express at 3:20 PM and then reached Agra at 6:30 PM.Our accommodation was very near to Taj Mahal but there is no night viewing of Taj as the area around the Taj is very dark.

Agra -- We got up at 5 AM, the next day i.e., Sunday and went onto see Taj Mahal at sunrise. Taj Mahal opens from 5:45 AM and there are 3 gates for Taj Mahal (South, East and West).For South Gate, tickets are available at Shilpgram which is around ¾ km from Taj. Since it was near to my hotel, I took tickets at 5:30 AM and went on to see Taj. There was some rush to catch Taj at early morning and took some time to pass the stringent security checks. Once I entered into the complex, I just ran fast to catch the view. The entrance gate is marvelous and a big structure and they are gates on each side of the Taj Mahal. Since it was early in the morning, we were able to grab some good photos of us without any people in the background. Taj was exceptional. My eyes twinkle on looking at the stunning beauty of Taj. We roamed near and around Taj and then we entered inside and spent there 10 min and sat for lot of time looking at the Taj. From the right side gate, one can get fantastic snaps since we get a different view.


Majestic Taj at 7:30 AM with sun light spells over

Taj Mahal got extraordinary gardens in the South and the combination of those gardens with Taj as the backdrop makes a perfect picture. And at the West and East end, we get to see a rectangle view of Taj. And River Yamuna as the North Boundary is an added attraction.


A wall of Taj with moon

There is a VIP seat (That’s what everyone say) where one can get a photo of their lifetime by seating there since it captures the Taj as the background. We spent time there till 8:30AM and then we decided to move out of there.
We had breakfast and then were off to Agra Fort which is around 2 Km from Taj Mahal. Agra Fort is a notable and a popular place in Agra. The fort is huge with distance covered and the structures are heavy and artistic. There is not much to climb and the fort is not that complicated to go around as the routes are clear. We spent around 1 and half hr and then returned to hotel.

Fatehpuri Sikhri -- And at 12:30 PM, We started to Fatehpuri Sikhri, 40 Km from Agra. Fatehpuri Sikhri is Akbar’s territory and it is popular for a Dargah and for the visit to the 2nd biggest entrance gate in Asia, Buland Darwaza.It is huge and marks the brilliance of that time builders. One needs to encounter some steps to get onto the Monuments there. Once we enter inside, we see a vacant area with boundaries such as heavy walls. It’s a rectangular area with big Entrance Gate and the Dargah inside is considered high and there will lot of worshippers for that. Fatehpuri Sikhri is worth for Buland Darwaza and Akbar’s monuments and all are present in one area only and so, it is very easy to cover the places one at a go. There is no ticket for this as this is of Religious importance also. But somehow, the place should be kept clean as the area around these monuments is not neat and that really is concerning because it does drag your attention. Nevertheless, Fatehpuri Sikhri is perfect tourist destination and an ideal one for tourists of Agra.


Buland Darwaza in Fatehpuri Sikhri,World's second largest entrance gate.


And then at 4 PM, we started to Jaipur (235 KM) and reached Jaipur at 9 PM and the roads are good. And that night we directly checked into the hotel and took rest.

Jaipur – Jaipur is termed as Pink City and I went to expect every building in pink color but it pertain only to few buildings in an area. The city is neat and we started our sightseeing from 9:00 AM onwards. We first went to City Museum. The building is very good with good architecture. Then we went to Birla Temple and after that we went to Royal Gaiter which holds some carved metamaurphs of former rulers of Jaipur. The place is fine with gardens. It falls in the route to Amber (Amer) Fort which is 11 km from city centre. Amer fort is grandiose. A pink and beautiful fort.


Beautiful looking Pink Colored Amer Fort in Jaipur

The pink color is very appealing and one can go for Elephant ride or a jeep or by trail to reach to the top. The Fort attracts lot of tourists and to explore the fort, just follow one small route as some areas are confusing. Guides tend to give a feeling like we can’t go forward or see this properly without them, but it is not like that. Amer Fort is the best place in Jaipur and once to reach over the top, it offers stunning views all around. There is also one trail over steps to a neighboring hill but it does take lot of effort and most of the people skip. We took around 2 hrs to cover Amer fort and then we were off to Hawa Mahal. We reached Hawa Mahal at 2 PM.Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and City Palace all three are at a common point and especially Jantar Mantar and City Palace are side by side.


Hawa Mahal is the landmark of Jaipur

Hawa Mahal is good and we generally get to see the pic of the rear end which we believe is the front side but we first enter on one side which takes you one after another step. We get the Outside view of Hawa Mahal only when we come out of the complex and take a road that is parallel to this road. We spent around 45 min and then departed to Jantar Mantar. It is a good tour about all kinds of instruments and the different technological tools used that time. City Palace is good and it also has a museum. We completed the Jaipur coverage by 5 PM and then started to Pushkar.
We first reached Ajmer at 8 PM (160KM).Ajmer holds a very famous dargah.We started to Pushkar straight away and reached there at 8:45 PM. Pushkar is around 18 km from Ajmer. The route from Ajmer to Pushkar is scenic and we need to cross across Ghat section with an up and down in that 18 Km route.

Pushkar: A land of hundreds of temples and believed to have formed with God’s bless. Pushkar boast of a lake which was formed by Lord Brahma when he dropped a lotus flower and hence there is a big Brahma Temple here. It is also said that World started from this lake. The lake is considered very sacred and there are quite a few Ghats for devotees to take a bath. But unfortunately, in the last 2-3 years, tourists and locals polluted the lake water and hence the lake was filled with debris. So, then Central Government took up an action of cleaning up the lake and removed all the water in the lake and building some external layers for lake protection. They started that process 1 and half year back and since then the lake disappeared in Pushkar. Now, the work is in progress and they want rains to fill in the water for lake. Lake is the centre point for the town. Luckily, the water is still live in few Ghats and hence pilgrims perform various kinds of religious rituals and take a holy bath.


Ghats at the Pushkar Lake

But the water is not in the purest form unfortunately. Pushkar can be covered by footsteps or by a rickshaw. The place is free from pollution and is a perfect holiday for respite.
When I reached Pushkar in the night, we hired a rickshaw from Bus stand to my hotel which is nearby Brahma temple. I first ran to the lake area and was extremely disappointed to see that there is no water in the lake and slept with dullness and the next morning, I woke up at 6 AM and saw the religious groups ambling on tiny streets of Pushkar, the white colored temple domes, the ashrams which all changed my perception towards Pushkar. I realized the real beauty of Pushkar with the hundreds of temples in the town.


Mystical look of Pushkar

We first visited the Brahma Temple and then the Vishnu Temple which comes in between the route from Brahma Temple to the Bus stand. Then we visited few Ghats. The sad thing is, people fall behind you to offer blah blah into the water and perform some rituals just for money. The Ghats are commercialized and one has to be careful by not falling into anyone’s trap. There are lots of shopping options in Pushkar and good quality food courts also. We had lunch at 1 PM and then went to the Desert area is Pushkar. Desert area in Rajasthan starts from Pushkar and there is a camel fair held in September/October in every year in Pushkar which is of huge importance to tourists. The desert area is not that big or beautiful, a place which gives you a feel,ok this how desert lookslike.We did some shopping then and at 4 PM,we started to Jodhpur, our next destination which is around 180 Km from Pushkar.

Jodhpur: Jodhpur is a busy place with lot of tourists and a commercial hub. The place is popular for the best fort as per my judgement, Mehrangarh fort and the white beautiful Jaswant thada.The city also provides blue houses views hence it is also termed as Blue city. We reached Jodhpur at 8:30 PM and straight way checked into hotel. Our hotel got astonishing views of Mehrangarh fort.


Stunning view of Magnificient Mehrangarh Fort at 5:45 AM

The next morning, we started our safari at 10 AM and first visited the Umaid Bhavan place/Museum. It is a private palace maintained by a Maharaja Umaid Singh. The outward structure of the palace is amazing. The place is bit far from the city centre but one of the most prominent centers at Jodhpur. The interiors are great and the museum is with Maharaja’s repository. The palace is a 2 storied mahal and a good exhibition inside. We spent around 1 ½ hr there and then departed to Mandore gardens which is around 12 km from city centre. Reached there at 1 PM. Mandore gardens is slowly coming up as a tourist spot to get recognised. The Garden location is bit far from the main gate where one need to walk for 5-10 min and then few charming temples welcome you into the gardens.There are some beautiful carved temples and royal centogaph forms the major part of Mandore Gardens.The place also have a Government Museum and is ok.There are some good Rajathani Idols sculpures that are interesting.An idle place with few impressively designed temples.A fine place but beware of monkeys as they are in huge number here. We spent around 1 – 1 ½ hr and then departed to Jaswant Thada.


The while marble structured gorgeous looking Jaswant Thada

Jaswant Thada is a white marbled beautiful palace and is the second best tourist destination in Jodhpur.The palace is built by Sardar Singh in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh.The beauty of this cenotaph lies in its white marble structures and glow at night.This place is pretty much can be termed as an Architectural landmark of Jodhpur and the views from Outside are exceptional. From the palace area,one get fantastic view of Jodhpur City and on a cold day,one can trek to the top for some distance to get the breathtaking view of both Jawant thada with Mehrangarh Fort as the background.Try this when weather is not hot.Spent around 1 hr there and then left to Mehrangarh fort.


I will say,this is the best fort in Rajasthan

Mehrangarh fort is around 1 km from Jaswant Thada.One can walk but the road is up and down and muddy.The approach road is same for both as Jaswant Thada is on left and Mehrangarh fort is on right.An awesome fort and I would call it as the best of Rajasthan.The views of Fort are spectacular from nearby areas.The Fort is also modern equipped.There is trail up to height and One can come by vehicles up to some extent and at the main entrance there are 2 ways to explore the fort since there are lifts. We thought of going up by Lift and cover the fort and next descend down by walk such that it saves our energy and also gives more time. The charges for Lift are extra and available at the same ticket counter.The museum is magnificent and is one of the finest museums in Rajasthan.


Blistering Blue city views from Mehengarh Fort in Jodhpur

The museum exhibits the heritage of the Rathores in arms, costumes, paintings and decorated period rooms. The Facades of Mehrangarh Fort Palace are beautiful and Takhat Vilas, Maharaja's room is a wonder.There are quite a few decorated and ornate places inside the fort out of which Moti Mahal , Phool Mahal , Sheesha Mahal, Sileh Khana, and Daulat Khana are popular.


Grand view of the City form this imposing structure

There are good galleries inside the fort and few of them are Elephant's howdahs, Palanquins, Daulat Khana - Treasures of Mehrangarh Museum, Armoury,Paintings, the Turban Gallery and the Folk Music Instruments Gallery.We expored all the sightings of the fort and it took almost 3 – 3 1/2 hrs for us and we finished our Jodhpur trip at 6 PM.Then we went to a Movie in the main city as our train to Jaisalmer was at 11 PM.We started at 11PM and reached Jaisalmer at 5 AM.

Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer is a desert city and one feel it as on we reach the city as our body will be covered with small remains of sand.The place is also extremely hot but having all said,This is the best location is Rajasthan as there is lot to do in this place.Jaisalamer is full of Havelis and there are couple of fabulous Havelis.

At 8:00 AM,We first went to Patwon ki Haweli and it is marvelously built.


Patwon ki Haweli is a splendid Haveli and the best in Rajasthan

It is five storied and probably the largest Havelis of Rajasthan and the most impressive.Reach to the top of Haveli to get panoramic view of Jaisalmer fort which is out of the World.


Jaisalmer is called Golden City

We spent around 1 1/2 hr at the Haveli and We roamed within the streets and came across various beautiful havelis and enjoyed our walk and then went to Jaisalmer Fort.We first checked into the Jain Temple complex which is nearby the main Entrance of the Fort and it is full of splendid structural temples.It get closed at 12 PM and gets opened at 4 PM again so,one should plan accordingly while visiting this complex..We completed the Jain Temples and then started our visit to Jaisalmer Fort. The Fort stands on Golden stretches of Great Indian Thar Desert.It is the Golden Fortress.The Havelis inside the Fort and the beginning of the Fort are prodigious. One can amble or go by vehicle to reach to the top of the fort.


Exceptional View of the Golden City from Jaisalmer Fort

Raj Mahal,Laxminath Temple and the gigantic gateways are the main attractions of this fort.The Fort got phenomenal inner structures and one find of lot of pigeons on the walls of the Fort.The fort got lots of Havelis and all are worthy.We spent around 2 hrs there and at 2:30 PM,we started to Gadi Sagar Lake,2 km from Fort.A calm place with lake and some stone structures in the water.The place is fine.We spent some time there and came back to our hotel for rest.And at 4 PM,we started our safari to Sam Sand Dunes.
The main reason why people make to Jaisalmer is for Camel Ride in Sand Dunes.It is probably considered as one of the must do s for the tourists who visit Rajasthan.


Sam Sand Dunes,45 Km from Jaisalmer

Specifically,Sunset camel ride is the most demanded one and it priced quite heavily.There are 2 places for Sand Dunes which are set at 45 Km in different directions.The first and most admired Sam sand Dunes and the next one is Khuri Sand Dunes.Locals give different verdict about both the Dunes.Sam is more crowded and have good facilities for accommodation and Khuri also slowly getting crowded in seasons nowadays.The less crowd you have the more neatly the Dunes will be maintained.Generally,Tourists tend to go to Sam and we also decided in the same way. We first visited to Badabagh (11 Km from Jaisalmer).It is a beautifully ornated Haveli kind of structured temple and the interiors are brilliantly carved.There is a lake near the temple. The outward structures look great and this makes a good spot to visit.
Spent around 20 min there and then we jumped on to the drive to Sam. Reached Sam at 5:15 PM and we were dropped at Camel Station. Since we were a couple, we both were allotted one Camel and his name is Ronith and a camel driver. The camel ambled for around 30min to the exact location of Dunes and it dropped us there at 6 PM.The Sand Dunes were overwhelming and truly perfect place for retreat. We played on the dunes for some time and then at 6:20 PM, we again took a camel ride by paying extra amount to the Camel driver to ride us up and down the dune. The Camel ascends and descends on the dune and that makes you a thrilling ride.


Befriend a Camel in Desert Safari in Jaisalmer

Then we had the sunset view and then further travelled some distance on the dune and finally got dropped at the camel station where we were dropped. We had Camel safari for around 75 min and it was a journey of our lifetime. And at 7:30 PM, we were taken to a resort for Rajasthani dance show and Rajasthani food.It generally comes as a package depend on how we choose, I opted for half day tour and full day tour involves a night stay near the Desert where they provide a tent for our stay.We had to catch the night train to Jodhpur and so we did not opted for Night stay. We finished the trip at 9:30PM and from there reached to Jaisalmer railway station to catch train at 11 PM.There is no direct route from Jaisalmer to Udaipur so I took a train first and then took a bus from there.
We reached Jodhpur at 5 AM and took refreshments and at 6:30 AM, we took a bus to Udaipur and reached there at 1 PM. Udaipur is surrounded by hills and route just before 80 km reaching Udaipur is very scenic.The route becomes very scenic once you cross Ranakpur on the way to Udaipur.


On route to Udaipur City from Ranakpur

Udaipur : We straight away checked into our hotel and at 5 PM,we started sightseeing of Udaipur.We first went to Doodh Talai where we see the best Sunset of the City. The sunset view was tremendous.


Sunset at Doodh Talai is must see in Udaipur

And then we heard of Sound and Light show at Maharaja palace which was scheduled at 8 PM.We started to the Palace and took the tickets to watch the show.The show lasted for around 45 min and a delight to eyes.The Place looked wonderful in lights and the program comprises of narration of Raja story with various kinds of Sounds and lights.The whole Palace will be illuminated with lights in all junctions at the end of the show and that is a real pleasure.


Sparkling City Place with lights in the Light show

The next day,we started at 9 AM and we first went to Fateh Sagar lake and it is okay.And just ½ km walk from Fateh Sagar lake is Maharana Pratap Memorial and we see atop Rajput hero Maharana Pratap with a bronze statue of the Maharana astride his favourite horse "Chetak" ovelooking the Fateh Sagar lake.The statue is remarkable and we need to climb few steps to reach that point.


Grandiose City Palace in Udaipur

Then at 11:30 AM,we reached City Palace which is 5 km from Fateh Sagar lake.City Palace is on the east side of Lake Pichola and it is a massive palace structures.The entry is through a giant door and the palace looks very modern and supreme.The balconies provide panoramic view of Lake Place Hotel.The Palace got the repertoire of the Maha Raja s and it got lot of interesting things inside the Palace.We spent around 1 and half hour there and then we went to Jagadish Temple.The Temple structure resembles Taj Mahal.Infact they say Mewar King invited Shah Jahan that time to visit this temple and it inspired him and when he decided to go for Taj Mahal, he implemented that design.The Idol looks good and a temple which is believed very sacred.


Jagadish Mandir at Udaipur,An inspiration to Shah Jahan to complete the Taj mahal

The JagNiwas Island is visible from the top and the Lake Pichola forms the Northern Border.We seek blessings of the God and then we went to Bagore ki Haveli which is on the back side.It is just 5 min walk from Jagadish Temple.The series of puppets fetches your attraction.


Amazing dolls in Bagore ki Haveli

There are wonderful dolls and really makes you crazy.And from the first floor,One get to see the Lake Palace hotel view in water and take a picture perfect shot.


A perfect picture

The Haveli is fine and then we thought of going to Monsoon Palace (SajjanGarh),5 Km but then decided to have lunch at 2 PM and post lunch we thought of going to Doodh talai again to take the new added attraction,the Rope way.It takes you the biggest point of Udaipur and one gets a thrilling view of the whole Udaipur.The Railway Station,Islands,The misty hills,Lake Palace Hotel and City Palace..It offers classical views of all.


City Place on right and Lake Place Hotel on left in Udaipur City

There is a temple at the top and we spent around 45 min at the top and then came down by Cable car.The way looks good and the return route is good as it got the view of lake.We finished there and then we were off to Udaipur Railway station to catch train to Mathura.Our train started at 5:30 PM and reached Mathura at 4 AM in the morning.

Mathura : We took a hotel opposite to Vishram Ghat and slept for nearly 2 hrs as we were very tired.Mathura is one place which is one of the most important places in my list as I am ardent fan of Lord Krishna.The place is a dusty and busy town nowadays and a delightful place as this is the place where Little Krishna roamed in.


Placid Yamuna,A delightful place

The small streets and the ghats, all make you feel excited and get into devotional mood.We first went to the Main Temple and I was stunned on looking at the number of Security personnel there.Huge security and stringent checks where they don’t allow anything to take inside.There is a Mosque built by Aurangazeb adjacent to the main temple.There are 2 small temples inside the Main temple complex and the whole place is placid and a perfect place for calm and peace.The inside area in the main temple is so beautiful and gives you a great feeling.We spent around 1 hr there and then we went to Dwarka Temple and seek blessings and then spent some time at Vishram Ghat and had a holy dip at Yamuna river.We rounded off the entire Mathura by 9:30 AM and at 10 Am we catch JanShatabdhi to Delhi.We dint had much time for Brindavan which adds much more delight to Mathura trip but as we have our return flight from Delhi,we were unable to accommodate that in this trip.But to be perfect,If one plan for Mathura/Brindavan trip along with Agra,that is the right one as Mathura is just 55 km from Agra.

Delhi: Delhi is more of a halt for us and a gateway to return Hyderabad.My Cousin came to H Nizamuddin Railway station to pick us at 1 PM and then we left to Akshardham temple.As it was Sunday,there was huge rush and we had to spend some time at the entry as there were long queues.This was my second visit to Akshardham and I really love the ambience and the variety they have there.It has 3 events totally.The first one is the detailed pictorial explanation of the life of Lord Swami Narayan which starts explanation about his childhood.And the next level is a 1 hr movie about him in an IMAX theatre.It really surprise and choke you when you think of having an IMAX theatre in a Temple complex.And the last stage is the water level where there will be an explanation of the findings of Indians and one travel by artificial boats on a man made water canal.It is very special and attracts everyone.This lasts for around 15 min.So,the total entertainment portion lasts for around 1 hr 45 min. Then at 4 PM,We went to Red Fort but there was huge rush and so we took snaps from outside only.Then we went to the road that takes to RastraPathi Bhavan.I will reckon it as the best road in the World.You see North Block,South Block,Parliament and RastraPathi Bjavan and from there to India Gate.


India Gate

A great passage way and one gets complete satisfaction.Then at 6:15 PM,we reached India Gate and had a sip of tea there and when it got dark,we roamed over the streets of Delhi.The residences of Politicians,The houses and Bhavan s of different states of our Country and The Embassies of various Countries all over the World.We completed the tour by 9 PM and then we we were off to Gurgaon and that is where my cousin resides.Took rest that nite and at early morning 6:30,We took Indigo flight to Hyderabad and that completes a eventful and superb North India trip.

General information

Agra : Taj Ganz area got good accomodation options and it is easier to visit Taj Mahal when you stay in that area.Local transportation is good in Agra.I personally felt,Guide is not required for Taj Mahal visit.Buses are available to FatehPuri Sikhri from Agra and guides will trouble there also.This is place of Religious importance so there is no entry fee fot this place.A climp uphill from Bus Stand takes you to the Monuments.

Jaipur : Jaipur is busy with Traffic and city got good options for food and accomodation. You can arrange the day trip on your own.Contact your hotel guy as they can arrange an auto (365 Rs)or a car (800 Rs).

Pushkar : Pushkar is full of hotels and if you stay near Brahma Temple or Vishnu Temple,the ghats are very near and shopping area is also near.Pushkar got good shopping options.The famous Rajasthani dress Bandhini is available in Jaipur and Pushkar at an attractive price.In Pushkar,it is much more cheaper.

Jodhpur : Stay in a hotel where you get the Mehrangarh fort view in Jodhpur.It offers a thrilling moment if you can manage to spot the Fort from your room window..You can arrange the day trip on your own.Contact your hotel guy as they can arrange an auto (385 Rs)or a car (800 Rs).

Jaisalmer : Jaisalmer got hot climate and for Camel ride,you can book advance and lot of hotel guys will be present at the Railway station and you can directly check into a hotel with them if you dont have prior booking.Local sightseeing can be covered by foot and for Desert Safari,it costs around 1000-1500 for 2 members for half day tour and 2500-3000 for night stay in a hut near the desert area.These packages generally include camel safari and also pick by car.There are few high class arrangements also done for night stay by some local hotels in Jaisalmer.Sam Sand Dunes and Khuri Sand Dunes both are 45 km from Jaisalmer on different directions.So one can choose of their own.Local Buses are not available that often so these places can be explored mostly by Private car.Regarding Camel Safari,the initail journey will be approx 30-45min for 2 members on a single camel and if you offer some extra money like 250 -400,the camel guy will take you for few more rounds.

Udaipur : Udaipur is place for retreat and pleasure stay.There are top class accomodation facilites available here.The evening show at City Palace got tickets and the show normally starts at 8 PM.The ropeway at Doodhtalai will be great when you explore during sunset ie.,(5-6:30 PM).You can arrange the day trip on your own.Contact your hotel guy as they can arrange an auto (385 Rs)or a car (800 Rs).

Distance Details :

Agra to Fatehpur Sikhri ----- 40 KM
Agra to Mathura ----- 55 KM
Fatehpur Sikhri to Jaipur ------ 235 KM
Jaipur to Ajmer ------ 140 KM
Ajmer to Pushkar ------ 18 KM
Ajmer to Jodhpur ------ 200 KM
Jodhpur to Jaisalmer ------ 290 KM
Jaisalmer to Udaipur ------ 560 KM
Udaipur to Mathura ------ 9 Hrs by train
Mathura to Delhi ------145 KM

Type of Trip : Heritage,Splendour,Adventure,History and Retreat.

Best time to Visit : September - Febuary is ideal

Ratings:
Agra ---- 4.5
Fateh Puri Sikhri ---- 3.5
Jaipur ---- 3.5
Pushkar ---- 3.75
Jodhpur ---- 4
Jaisalmer ---- 4.5
Udaipur ---- 4.5

Trip to Nilgiris

Which is the best hill station in South? Some pick Munnar and some pick Ooty.To summarize that,Munnar is king of all hill stations and Nilgiris is the Queen of all hill stations in South India.I say Niligiris why because there is lot to offer in the boundaries of Ooty than that place itself.So,Just to let everyone know about the existent beauty of Nilgiris I went to cover Nilgiris from a different perspective on new year’s eve.

Route : Hyderabad – Bangalore – (Theppakadu – Ooty – Coonoor – Kotagiri – Ooty ) –Bangalore – Hyderabad.

Duration : 4 days

We started on Wednesday at 7 PM by a train to Bangalore and reached Bangalore on Thursday morning at 7:30 AM and then after having breakfast,we started to Theppakadu (Muddumalai WLS) and we stopped at Mysore for lunch.

Muddumalai Wild Life Sanctuary : Then at around 3 PM,We reached Muddumalai Wild Life Sanctuary.This is what I say is the starting point of Nilgiris.Muddumalai is the best Wild life sanctuary in South India to spot Wild Elephants.The WLS offers tours to spot animals and it is

Elephant Spotting common in Muddumalai

worth experiencing.One can spot Elephants,Spotted Deers,Wild Pigs for sure.The tour lasts for 30-45 min.Even without animals,the park is affluent with scenic views and get the feel of a thick jungle.We wrapped up the Muddumalai trip at 5 PM.

Muddumalai to Ooty route :There are 2 routes to go to Ooty from Muddumalai.The first one is the common and lengthy route of 65 km via Gudalur and Pykara which is used effectively by government buses.And the other one is the shorter 36 km route via Masigangudi, Kalhatty Ghat Road.This one is quicker but only small vehicles pass by this route since it is steep and becomes very difficult for big buses.One need to negotiate with 36 hairpin bends in this route but the route is very scenic.

SmokyBlue mountains via Kalhatty Ghat route

Try this if you are going by private vehicle.It took around 90 min and then at 7 PM we reached Ooty.Then we straightaway headed to our Hotel and took rest that night.

Ooty : The next morning,we first went to Ooty Lake at 10 AM.The lake is placid and kool.Ooty lake is the best place in Ooty.There are pedal boats and one get complete privacy while boating on this lake.One can boat a minimum of 25 min for a couple pedal boat.

Ooty Lake is super kool

We also visited Thread Garden opposite to Ooty lake.It is okay.Skip this if you are on tight schedule.

Coonoor : Then we headed to Coonoor.Coonoor is 13 km from Ooty.Coonoor is a better place than Ooty because you go away from the commercialized Ooty.We first headed to Singara Tea gardens and spent some time in the rolling tea plantations of that valley.Then at 1 PM,we went to Lamb’s rock,3 Km from there.The entire route is exceptional with fantastic valleys full of tea plantations.

Herd of Bison s in a Tea Estate in Coonoor

From Lamb’s rock,one need to amble for 1 Km to Dolphin’s nose.We started and reached Dolphin’s nose.Itr is the best view point in Coonoor and one can spot the Kotagiri tea estates and Water Falls from this view point.It is a must if you visit Coonoor.And we had lunch at Coonoor.Sim’s park is the other attraction in Coonoor which is just about okay.

Coonoor to Doddabetta to Ooty : And at 3 PM,we started to Dodda betta,the tallest accessible peak in South India.We reached Doddabetta at 4 PM and the route was very scenic.

View from Dodda Betta Peak in Fog

Fog was ubiquitous since it is situated at 8,640 ft above MSL.One can find the complete view only in summer ie., from May-July.Then after spending some time we headed to Botanical garden in Ooty.

Back to Ooty : We reached there at 5:30 PM.The Garden is very woryth visiting.The Garden got the commercial look but it got lot of natural plants.We did some evening shopping that day and checked into the Hotel.The next day ie., Saturday,we went for early morning walk within the Ooty limits.

Early Morning in Ooty

Ooty looked very beautiful in the early morning.We climbed up to few heights and checked some good views and then reached hotel at 8 AM.Then we got ready to leave to Kotagiri at 9:30 AM.

Kotagiri is the oldest and less travelled hill station in Nilgiris.It is infact the biggest tea exporter of Nilgiris.I love Rolling tea plantations and thatswhy I have chosen to visit Kotagiri.The route from Ooty to Kotagiri is the best of Nilgiris.Even if you don’t visit Kotagiri,drive for few kms in this route.

Green Green Kotagiri

Kodanad View point,Rangaswamy Pillar and Catherine falls are the major tourist attractions in Kotagiri.But If you mange to visit Kodanad View point,you can see both Rangaswamy Pillar and Catherine falls from there.We reached Kotagiri at 10:45 AM.There are few Tea estates near the bus stand and we ambled near there and then at 11:30 AM,we started to Kodanad View point,18 km from Kotagiri.

Kodanad View point :The route is probably the best of Nilgiris .Superb, Awesome, Spectacular.You pass through lot of valleys,splendid tea estates.Reached Kodanad at 12:30 PM.this is the best view point of Nilgiris.One can see the clouds,Blue mountains,Plains over Coimbatore,Rangaswamy Pillar and Catherine falls from this view point.

Kodanad View Point is a heaven

This is heaven with uprising mist.The place is very far from Ooty and that keeps tourists away from this one but this one is for nature lovellers.There are numerous Tea esates near the view point such that once can amble near the view point.

Back to Ooty – Bangalore – Hyderabad : We started back to Ooty and reached Ooty at 6 PM and then left to Bangalore and spent free time in Bangalore on Sunday and at Sunday evening took a train to Hyderabad and reached Hyderabad on Monday morning.That sums up an eventful journey to the incredible Nilgiris.

General Information :Theppakadu is the place to reach to Muddumalai WLS.Theppakadu is having buses from lot of places.There are private buses from Masinagudi – Ooty via Kalhatty Ghat road.To reach Masinagudi,One can get into the jeep from Muddumalai to Masinagudi.Accomodation is Masinagudi are bountiful and always recommend to stay there to enjoy wildlife.There are regular buses to Coonoor and Kotagiri from Ooty and there is hourly bus to kodanad view point from Kotagiri.

Distance Information :

Bangalore to Theppakadu ---- 265 KM Theppakadu to Masinagudi ---- 7 KM Theppakadu to Ooty via Masinagudi ---- 36 KM Theppakadu to Ooty via Gudalur ----- 65 KM Ooty to Coonoor ---- 13 KM Coonoor to Kotagiri ---- 15 KM Ooty to Kotagiri ---- 28 KM Kotagiri to Kodanad View Point ----- 18 KM

Best time to Visit : All though out the year.Avoid in October-November,it rains heavenly that time.

Type of Visit : Nature Loving and Adventure

Ratings considering all factors mostly scenic beauty :

Muddumalai WLS ---- 3.75 Ooty ---- 3.25 Coonoor --- 4 Kotagiri ---- 4