tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29520267970194954142024-03-11T16:47:22.635+05:30travelogueKaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-3732101260316793232019-04-20T20:28:00.000+05:302019-04-20T20:31:06.106+05:30National Defense Academy – Cradle of Indian Military Leadership<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">NDA as it is generally referred as, National Defense Academy
is the World’s first Tri-Services Academy; combined academy for Army, Navy and
Air Force. It was established immediately after India’s Independence; plans of
which, however, were conceptualized some time during the 2</span><sup style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">nd</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> World
War in British India. A Joint Services Wing (JSW) was established in 1949 at
Dehradun which was later shifted to Khadakwasla near Pune in 1954, which we now
know as the NDA.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jHhizRpfFfM/XLsu6VbR30I/AAAAAAAAaDs/m5fwOcukk9gmjMypRb2iIonRqbES0dvbACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414090908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jHhizRpfFfM/XLsu6VbR30I/AAAAAAAAaDs/m5fwOcukk9gmjMypRb2iIonRqbES0dvbACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414090908.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Motto: </span>सेवा परमो धर्मः</span><br /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">(Service Before Self)</span></span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Students, referred as Cadets, are selected after their 12</span><sup style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
standard through an examination conducted through UPSC. There are some entries
through NCC also. There are feeder academies like RIMC (Rashtriya Indian
Military College) and Sainik Schools (e.g. Bhosala Military School, Satara)
where the students are prepared for their entry into the NDA.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cadets come from all walks of life, irrespective of their
caste, religion, financial situation and societal status. Selection happens
only on based on merit of the individual; no recommendations work here. Student
displaying high amount of OLQs (Officer Like Qualities) have a potential to
become an Officer. About 30,000 students participate for examinations every
term (every 6 months), approx. 3000 get selected for SSB (Service Selection
Board) stage. Only 300 among them are selected as NDA Cadets; about 40 among
them for Air Force, while 20 to Navy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At the end of their 3 years (6 terms) at NDA, Cadets go for
further specialized training in their respective Academies – Army Cadets to
Indian Military Academy (Dehradun), Air Force Cadets to Air Force Academy
(Dundigal, near Hyderabad) and Naval Cadets to Indian Naval Academy (Kerala).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cadets when come to NDA, are from multiple locations across
India. They speak different languages. But after their 6 terms in NDA they walk
out speaking the one language – Language of The Forces; with only one aim <span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">à</span> to protect India from
external as well as internal threats. Since Cadets from all three Forces from
various parts of India train together, they make a bond for life. It serves as
a significant prologue to continued tri-service camaraderie and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="OLE_LINK2"></a><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">esprit-de-corps</span>.
The Senior-Junior and Peer Relationships are sustained till eternity. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ex-NDA remains an identity for these Officers
when they are commissioned in their respective Units and even beyond after they
retire. The Squadrons and Battalions assigned to them after their entry into
NDA, remains with them for life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are 18 Squadrons (from A to R – Alpha, Bravo, …,
Quebec, Romeo). These are further divided into 5 Battalions. Cadets stay in the
buildings of their respective Squadrons. They come from different regions,
speak different languages, and have varying abilities. But they bond in their
Squadron where their camaraderie is forged. The Squadron spirit is inculcated
and nurtured throughout their stay. They fight a healthy competition to
keep the name of their Squadron flying high.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This bond and respect within each other make these Officers
such that they are ready to even die for their Seniors’ Orders (Supreme
Sacrifice). These Officers are made to toil hard during their tenure. They are
made to do all kinds jobs and activities which may be required during hostile
situations in war. An Officer would never order a task to his Jawans which he
himself cannot do. They are taught to lead by example. That is the reason
Indian Army is one of those dignified Armies in the World that has high number
of injuries and casualties of Officers during an Operation or War. They lead
from the front.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cadets receive a basic degree of B.Sc. They are taught
Science, Maths and multi linguistic (foreign languages) subjects. They are
taught about Table Manners and Etiquettes as well. Then there is a hard-core
training of the Forces and then their specialization (Army, Navy or Air Force).
Cadets are molded into Officers at the end of their 6<sup>th</sup> term, ready
to take on any challenge.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uo4hc0HWTXo/XLsyTmw5D6I/AAAAAAAAaFA/6qyNeS9wVxsLWkJg2xxApHpi1rDXcxC1wCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414140454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uo4hc0HWTXo/XLsyTmw5D6I/AAAAAAAAaFA/6qyNeS9wVxsLWkJg2xxApHpi1rDXcxC1wCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414140454.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">STD Booths for Cadets to speak with their families</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Heritage India had arranged a visit to this iconic Academy.
And to add up to the party, was presence of Major General Rasquinha as our
guide. All the information which is mentioned in this blog is because of his
immense knowledge and experience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started from Pune at 9 am and reached the Tri-Shakti Gate
of NDA by around 10 am. Tri-Shakti Gate was constructed in 2006 to mark the
Golden Jubilee celebration of NDA. This is symbolic for being a Tri-Services
Academy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After basic entry formalities and a photo-op, we entered
inside. This was moment of pride for us. Most us were first one’s entering this
iconic institute of National Importance.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BSHFoHS_BHM/XLsvbB1xL4I/AAAAAAAAaD0/-zW_H5Z9qV8y3V2KfQRGnGa_hZNnoGX5ACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414091111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BSHFoHS_BHM/XLsvbB1xL4I/AAAAAAAAaD0/-zW_H5Z9qV8y3V2KfQRGnGa_hZNnoGX5ACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414091111.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Tri-Shakti Gate</i></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WhT06ycrJ-c/XLsvbILp3GI/AAAAAAAAaD0/cmqbAhaKfjQkEGjQtcqkKnlhoZ2o6FClwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414091315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WhT06ycrJ-c/XLsvbILp3GI/AAAAAAAAaD0/cmqbAhaKfjQkEGjQtcqkKnlhoZ2o6FClwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414091315.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hiAxWPANmdY/XLsvbCnNMLI/AAAAAAAAaD0/h1Uq2ajLXUMTMFbEUv-BG79EWuVDeGlAQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414091345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hiAxWPANmdY/XLsvbCnNMLI/AAAAAAAAaD0/h1Uq2ajLXUMTMFbEUv-BG79EWuVDeGlAQCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414091345.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We directly went for the Equitation Training Team – in
simple terms Horse Riding. The basic idea of Horse Riding Training is that, if
you can control an animal, you can very well handle tough situations and
command men under you. There are various genres of Horse Riding - Lane Lumping,
Dressage, Cross Country, Bare-back riding. There are about 175 horses. There is
also an Indoor Riding Arena which is useful during rainy season.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jyOJzyxDMAY/XLsvtwzUAJI/AAAAAAAAaD8/2CfTzyidnpQOmLmn6olDFj6pB4Of0ETLQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414102224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jyOJzyxDMAY/XLsvtwzUAJI/AAAAAAAAaD8/2CfTzyidnpQOmLmn6olDFj6pB4Of0ETLQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG20190414102224.jpg" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Horse-Shoe shaped Entrance - <br />a befitting symbol for the Equitation Training Team</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kiYEB7CUDT8/XLswHr1QW6I/AAAAAAAAaEE/MrzURp1wu2Y-lg6AhAEISQ2nKZZdLFrCgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414102711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kiYEB7CUDT8/XLswHr1QW6I/AAAAAAAAaEE/MrzURp1wu2Y-lg6AhAEISQ2nKZZdLFrCgCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414102711.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Memorial of the Horses</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4MTHCJcTuc/XLswHmSE7iI/AAAAAAAAaEE/wu5yrTcKb9QWlal5e0MDHizECYUXi5DiwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414103122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4MTHCJcTuc/XLswHmSE7iI/AAAAAAAAaEE/wu5yrTcKb9QWlal5e0MDHizECYUXi5DiwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414103122.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Inside a stable</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This ETT is managed by 61</span><sup style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">st</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Cavalry Regiment of
Indian Army. This is World’s only operational Cavalry Unit. They form the
President’s Body Guard, which we see every year during Republic Day Parade.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here we went to Habibulla Hall. It is named after the
first Commandant of NDA. It is an auditorium cum Stage of the NDA. Multiple
functions happen here, apart from movie screenings. They showed us a film by
Discovery about NDA and life of the Cadets. This film further imparted us with
many insights. The same building also houses a Museum at the back which
displays mementos and medals received from other Countries.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bRXl94c9c-U/XLswXcWZ_BI/AAAAAAAAaEI/GiopBnm1Spc_zVZMW-FSP4lOPvdxQtZjACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414115401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bRXl94c9c-U/XLswXcWZ_BI/AAAAAAAAaEI/GiopBnm1Spc_zVZMW-FSP4lOPvdxQtZjACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414115401.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Inside Habibulla Hall</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxwAyh7U-tk4UCx9gkEMO61Z65DTvhGg28XRean-QDdsBWradQRj1nlq2e8XgA-KGNfnpv4elShgBWER4LEWU8B32KwElCXZJD4LgU8-CbcrBz9_H7zUMkqmlZ6BZ6U3uCg79AoDmYHAP/s1600/IMG20190414114507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxwAyh7U-tk4UCx9gkEMO61Z65DTvhGg28XRean-QDdsBWradQRj1nlq2e8XgA-KGNfnpv4elShgBWER4LEWU8B32KwElCXZJD4LgU8-CbcrBz9_H7zUMkqmlZ6BZ6U3uCg79AoDmYHAP/s400/IMG20190414114507.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Friendly Countries whose Cadets are also trained here</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next to this Hall is the main building of NDA, the Sudan
Block. It is the main administration building and houses the Office the NDA
Commandant at the top floor. Sudanese Government had donated some amount to the
British Indian Government as a token of gratitude in exchanged of the Army’s
support in its Liberation. This money was utilized in building of the NDA.
Hence the name Sudan Block.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q9qdr87Nkec/XLswyuPN4kI/AAAAAAAAaEY/v18ljPYJhHID0t3W06Xe5HYYfNOQstKPQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414115028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q9qdr87Nkec/XLswyuPN4kI/AAAAAAAAaEY/v18ljPYJhHID0t3W06Xe5HYYfNOQstKPQCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414115028.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Sudan Block</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Sudan Block is the iconic symbol of NDA. Colossal Dome
at the top and lined-up arches below making a giant façade appears this
building to be vastly spread out. Line of steps takes you to the main entrance
at the centre of the arch-line. Above are Four Flags slanted up (Army, Navy,
Air Force and of NDA). Massive insignia of the academy on both sides catch the
eye.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qeCs7cVW4pA/XLsw7KXqGuI/AAAAAAAAaEc/yYuTJKYC0FAizoHQLuUbdzElxJ84I3W6ACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414120032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qeCs7cVW4pA/XLsw7KXqGuI/AAAAAAAAaEc/yYuTJKYC0FAizoHQLuUbdzElxJ84I3W6ACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414120032.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">View from the platform (after climbing the steps) down below
is awesome. The straight road running down with trees on both sides and an
Ashok Stambha at the cross-road in between reminds of the Raj Path running from
Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3RWXQj5_pqc/XLsxB4QCx5I/AAAAAAAAaEg/aAUc8NV6BNwx1agT3ScnRxTzBlrehjd8QCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414120952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3RWXQj5_pqc/XLsxB4QCx5I/AAAAAAAAaEg/aAUc8NV6BNwx1agT3ScnRxTzBlrehjd8QCKgBGAs/s640/IMG20190414120952.jpg" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>View from the platform -<br />Ashok Stambh, road running down straight <br />with Fort Sinhagad at the backdrop</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Inside the building, below the Dome is the memorial of all
those Officers (ex-NDA Cadets) who laid down their lives in service of the
Nation. Also, there is the list of awardees who received Param Veer Chakra,
Ashok Chakra, etc. Photography is not permitted here.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9OU_xHs7ms/XLsxytEmPUI/AAAAAAAAaEs/KUr98qgGFOMfLQkbGSnT_6VFEfuRtGDNQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414120858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9OU_xHs7ms/XLsxytEmPUI/AAAAAAAAaEs/KUr98qgGFOMfLQkbGSnT_6VFEfuRtGDNQCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414120858.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here we went to see the Cadet’s Mess. This is another
highlight of the Academy after Sudan Block. This is said to the Asia’s largest
Mess wherein 2100 people can sit at a time. This is one of exclusive symbols of
solidarity and brotherhood among Cadets; where they break the bread
together. Veg and Non-Veg seating is identified. Made to order food is also
served; and mind-you within the super strict time schedule. Table manners and
eating etiquettes are taught to the Cadets here.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rs43He5lT94/XLsx8uYuwII/AAAAAAAAaE0/pPmDFr3heEMxBc-rvpuoDtck6T3qVN-OACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20190414125422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rs43He5lT94/XLsx8uYuwII/AAAAAAAAaE0/pPmDFr3heEMxBc-rvpuoDtck6T3qVN-OACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20190414125422.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The interior, with RED as the highlight color, is mostly a
wooden structure with a Peshwai Style of structural design. The Pillars are
mounted with photos of the President of India, the NDA Commandant and the Three
Chiefs of Armed Forces. Also decorated with flags of the friendly countries
whose Cadets are also trained here. Aesthetically mounted are the weapons,
Squadron Flags, Paintings and Banners.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxHH-q6kRGWfTINpFcF6-g6GtjpaY3xvuC7yXPemep_Gk9GayHrLA1sJqo2UiVnfsblSbdS8fvx6EplXNjZgYD2LwNHlgFH2G3HTsfaEFMv5xAbHNYdQYEgaTTmJjEEFKx-8_HGGGYJ94/s1600/IMG20190414125053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxHH-q6kRGWfTINpFcF6-g6GtjpaY3xvuC7yXPemep_Gk9GayHrLA1sJqo2UiVnfsblSbdS8fvx6EplXNjZgYD2LwNHlgFH2G3HTsfaEFMv5xAbHNYdQYEgaTTmJjEEFKx-8_HGGGYJ94/s400/IMG20190414125053.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Also lined-up are the frames of the Menu prepared during
each of the guests who visited this Mess – like Heads of State of various
Countries. During Passing-Out-Parade of the Cadets after their 6<sup>th</sup>
term, their parents get an honor to have food in this Mess with them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At the entrance is an empty table with a chair leaned on it.
On the table a dish is laid out and a rose and a candle is kept. This is in remembrance
of those NDA Alumni who are listed as Missing In Action (MIA). The Academy
still awaits their return to their motherland. This was unique and a gloomy
moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Photography is not allowed inside the Mess as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was the end of our half day NDA visit. Post lunch at
the Cafeteria, we moved for our return journey by 2 pm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pune is renowned for many heritage sites and modern
architecture. However, every Indian visiting Pune should pay a visit to this
Heritage of National Importance which is truly the Cradle of Indian Military
Leadership. Visitors can visit NDA on Sundays. Details are provided in their
website <a href="https://www.nda.nic.in/motivational%20visit.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9NI46xfBOE53kOef3pg0o5u4gJJLFsT3sn40oScvyiHO4-srOiOm1ZeMByGEM58E63CNfcxG_nHAFwGA9bfsY7rIipGIzZXzO6uLhIXBXmxZ7OuTCJLbaxrmZ3GpIcRLRa0gl_X_dZMG/s1600/IMG20190414125846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9NI46xfBOE53kOef3pg0o5u4gJJLFsT3sn40oScvyiHO4-srOiOm1ZeMByGEM58E63CNfcxG_nHAFwGA9bfsY7rIipGIzZXzO6uLhIXBXmxZ7OuTCJLbaxrmZ3GpIcRLRa0gl_X_dZMG/s640/IMG20190414125846.jpg" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Jai Hind</i></td></tr>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com6NDA Pashan Rd, Pune, Maharashtra, India18.5289329 73.79145259999995718.4687094 73.710771599999958 18.5891564 73.872133599999955tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-88950807491563066402019-04-07T20:09:00.001+05:302020-04-21T19:25:15.862+05:30An Epic Ride - Kanyakumari to Kashmir - November 2018<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They say, "Life ain't always beautiful, but it's a beautiful ride". And, we experienced such that week.</span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3f1VeezQOM4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3f1VeezQOM4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Me, with a friend, completed an epic bike ride covering entire India from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. Kiran had a plan in his mind and he pursued with me relentlessly to make it into a reality.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp7HUIugsrp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp7HUIugsrp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Day ZERO... Preparation of the epic journey... Local sightseeing today #instalogues #incredibleindia #itsmytravelogue #nohonkride #epicjourney #trisea #startofepicjourney #k2kride #dreamride #onerideonenation</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-11-08T15:02:31+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 8, 2018 at 7:02am PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our journey was from the Gushing Waves of the Tri-Sea at Kanyakumari to the Serene Waters of Dal Lake in Kashmir (Srinagar). These 4000 kms gave us the glimpse of India. We passed through 12 States, crossed about 29 Rivers, stayed in 7 cities / towns.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We must have passed from 100s of villages and towns; villages with unique, funny names. Names which identify the Regions. Names end with "Halli" in Karnataka, </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Palli" in Tamil Nadu and </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Patti" in Andhra / Telangana; with 'Pur' most common in North. There were funny names of villages in Punjab and Haryana - </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A diversity that highlights India is its Food. Our experience to local cuisines started the moment we reached Kanyakumari. As we started to move Up North, Idli changed to Biryani and then to Paranthas & Rajma while Coffee changed to Tea, Lassi and finally Kahwa. We truly experienced the Taste Of India on those 4000 kms.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqpjDv9n2Ym/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqpjDv9n2Ym/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">The Taste Of India; As we rode the vast land of #india from #kanyakumari to #kashmir , we were able to cherish local cuisine on the way. This explains one part of #diversity that our country is known for... #tasteofindia #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #k2kride #nohonkride #kanyakumaritokashmir #localcuisine #unityindiversity</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-11-26T15:50:00+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 26, 2018 at 7:50am PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Another diversity is the religions, for which our country is renowned for - Kanyakumari has a </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Memorial dedicated to Swami </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Vivekananda, a Hindu Monk. Taj Mahal at Agra is a </span><a href="https://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.com/2016/02/cars-bikes-taj-february-2016.html" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Jewel of Muslim Art in India</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. The Golden Temple is a holiest shrine for Sikhs - </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">अठ सथ तीरथ (shrine of 68 pilgrimages).</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BvjwtlTnVq5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g fill-rule="evenodd" fill="none" stroke-width="1" stroke="none"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BvjwtlTnVq5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BvjwtlTnVq5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Our ride across India brought us another Diversity our Country is renowned for... we visited across locations displaying their religious identities #itsmytravelogue #instalogues #incredibleindia #epicjourney #k2kride #amazingavenger #feellikegod #unityindiversity</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-03-28T16:30:51+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 28, 2019 at 9:30am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">All this while, what was continuously with us all the way was the NH-44, India's longest highway - the North-South Corridor of Golden Quadrilateral. It is also known as Kanyakumari-Srinagar Highway. The highway showed the level of development that have happened in the country. Complete highway is a 4 lane road with divider, made of tar. There is emergency telephone booth at every 300 meters. Truck lay-bye is available every 3-4 kms. Signage in English & a Local Language are provided. We crossed about 46 Toll Booths all the way; for us however, it was Toll Free journey, being on 2-Wheeler. Our ride through this Road took us a bit closer to the our Country and its People. We watched a lot from the seat of our bikes all those days - People, Villages, Nature, Development.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtdwfFFn_pr/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Witness the journey of an Epic Ride covering the entire length of the country... #k2kride #epicjourney #kanyakumaritokashmir #feellikegod #itsmytravelogue #instalogues #incredibleindia</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-02-04T15:37:49+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 4, 2019 at 7:37am PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After some detailed planning of the route and possible stops, we decided our visit dates coinciding with Diwali in November to manage office leaves. Flight tickets were booked from Pune to Trivandrum and Jammu to Pune. About 10 days were marked for the trip with actual 6 riding days. 1-2 days were kept as buffer. Actually, we were planning to explore to Gurez Valley in Kashmir, which we cancelled later considering snowfall and road closure news.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We transported our bikes by train till Kanyakumari. And then the day came, after which we were going to attempt something, not many have done. On the midnight of </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">November 7, 2018 we had our flight to Trivandrum with a lay-over in Bangalore. With some brief rest at Bangalore Airport Lounge and very early morning breakfast at 4 am, we reached Trivandrum at 7 am. We took a State Transport Bus for Nagarcoil and another one to Kanyakumari. We reached Railway Station by around 12 noon. We took our bikes into our custody and then searched for a hotel.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">In the evening we ventured off for local sight-seeing. Vivekananda Rock Memorial being highlight of Kanyakumari, we went to see this first.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8viMyILphys/XKhQEKJZ00I/AAAAAAAAZwc/1xJZogHrFK8KzGt40yYsIw6rYQ2nZWTBACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181108162748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="1600" height="107" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8viMyILphys/XKhQEKJZ00I/AAAAAAAAZwc/1xJZogHrFK8KzGt40yYsIw6rYQ2nZWTBACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181108162748.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tri-Sea Confluence - Panorama</span></i></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi030njcHXjnNMLCI0rY_rZGS4JzNUdzcBl6MN09n8mMloxSTLMtgUz3YxJovia9NkrAP7PTmL1BULjF6O3QiigotQ37raE6Z5iYIGgrqijG03H3AbRuQeQeBNV4esOxQXwFOpS3lGCnTE3/s1600/Screenshot_2018-11-08-15-54-35-57.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi030njcHXjnNMLCI0rY_rZGS4JzNUdzcBl6MN09n8mMloxSTLMtgUz3YxJovia9NkrAP7PTmL1BULjF6O3QiigotQ37raE6Z5iYIGgrqijG03H3AbRuQeQeBNV4esOxQXwFOpS3lGCnTE3/s400/Screenshot_2018-11-08-15-54-35-57.png" width="183" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">One needs to go by a Boat; return fare is taken at the window. Takes about 10 mins. to reach the Rock. The Rock is an island in a Tri-Sea - confluence of three Seas of Indian Peninsula, The Indian Ocean, The Bay of Bengal and The Arabian Sea. Swami Vivekananda is said to have achieved enlightenment on this Rock. A Dhyana Mandapam is erected which is the Memorial dedicated to Swami-ji. There is his life-size statue inside. Apart from memorial, there is a Temple dedicated to Goddess Kumari, where her foot-print is believed to have impression on the rock.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We were at the bottom-most point of the Indian Peninsula.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On a small island by the side is a Stat</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ue of </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">Thiruvalluvar, a Tamil Poet and Philosopher. It is comparatively a recent development, unveiled on January 1, 2000.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">Then we went on to see the Gandhi Mandapam, a place where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were kept in an urn for public viewing before immersing them into the Tri-Sea.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">From here, we went to a place from where the NH-44 starts. Start of a road from lower most point of India.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vlaGkW7zBek/XKn_G_gjEmI/AAAAAAAAZzo/GyDOGjseU3sPm6zmsa7TClCmeRL5rv66ACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181108170838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1600" height="147" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vlaGkW7zBek/XKn_G_gjEmI/AAAAAAAAZzo/GyDOGjseU3sPm6zmsa7TClCmeRL5rv66ACKgBGAs/s320/IMG20181108170838.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">NH-44 starts from here (seen in the background)</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><b>Day-1, Start of the Ride:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">We started off by around 5.45 am. The night we spent with some fear and apprehension. It rained heavily at 9 pm; and that made us worried. It was something we were trying to achieve and were not sure whether we can do it and then these rains...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">Morning, however, was clear. Slightly foggy and cool, but clear. In no time we touched the mighty NH-44 and started to move in dark and humid environment. As the dawn started to light up, at distance we could see the wind-mills rotating. by within 2 hours by 7 am, we were drinking coffee at Thirunelveli, some 90 kms away. And that was awesome covering of distance. The road was clear, not much traffic. The coffee was so awesome that we had double cups, actually glasses.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp-o0Ern_RU/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp-o0Ern_RU/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Day-1 After starting at 5:45 in the morning, we reached Bangalore by 5:30 pm; covering about 700 kms #k2kride #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #nohonkride #epicjourney #dreamride #onerideonenation</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-11-09T23:52:57+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 9, 2018 at 3:52pm PST</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">By 9.15 we reached Madurai and stopped for a breakfast, obviously Idli and Wada, being in South India.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">With some brief Tea stop at Karur, we reached Salem at 2 pm for Lunch. This time it was South Indian Meals.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXLvxr6Q_kI/XKhQcUaoVyI/AAAAAAAAZwk/WFiZes_C8VwDViJ0a7weabjJ0ZZPtaCZwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181109141445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXLvxr6Q_kI/XKhQcUaoVyI/AAAAAAAAZwk/WFiZes_C8VwDViJ0a7weabjJ0ZZPtaCZwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181109141445.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">By 5 PM, we were at the outskirts of Bangalore. It took us about 11 hours to cover 700 kms. And it took further 3 more hours to cover 40 kms; thanks to Bangalore traffic. We decided to cross City and stop ahead since we had some time in hand. This could save our morning time next day. We stayed at a place called Devanhalli.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">This was unbelievable for me. We covered 737 kms in a day; and that was all time high, so far. This ride made me confident that this is achievable; we can complete the #k2kride and make history for ourselves.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">Till today morning when we cranked our Engines, I was not sure about completion of this feat. But when we hit the road and cruised effortlessly till Thirunelveli, my confidence started building up.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Route: Kanyakumari - Thirunelveli - Madurai - Salem - Hosur - Bangalore - Devanhalli</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Kms covered: 737</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>From Tamil Nadu we crossed in Karnataka after Hosur.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><b>Day-2, With confidence this time:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">After quick tea below our lodge, we started for onward ride; it was 6 am. Climate was still so-so... not too hot, not much chilly. Immediately we crossed in AP. Little ahead, there was a road to Puttaparthi, birthplace of Satya Sai Baba.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">Next big city was Ananthapur. On the way we saw huge project of Kia Motors. Being a Korean company, lot many Korean Officials and Workers must have been here; even the road signs, advertisements, names of hotels and home-stays were written in Korean language. We even saw a board of Korean Town-ship. This was something new for us, completely unknown.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We had a breakfast here.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WvQJteKPuDQ/XKhQuOPyN-I/AAAAAAAAZws/CMT5alhcLwUATwH8VIMtACnguMDTItFaQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181110074741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WvQJteKPuDQ/XKhQuOPyN-I/AAAAAAAAZws/CMT5alhcLwUATwH8VIMtACnguMDTItFaQCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181110074741.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Somewhere near Gooty (between Ananthapur and Kurnool) we found our first signboard for Srinagar, our target of the ride. It was still 2646 kms ahead. This was first of the wish - capturing the first milestone that mentions distance of our target, Srinagar.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqAS0NtHUE6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqAS0NtHUE6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Day-2 : Target in sight --> #srinagar #amazingavenger #feellikegod #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #k2kride #dreamride #epicjourney #onerideonenation</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-11-10T15:19:13+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 10, 2018 at 7:19am PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">By 3 pm, we reached outskirts of Hyderabad. And we made a mistake here. Our Google Maps showed us to take a left turn and we landed on to Nehru Outer Ring Road (ORR). Awesome road, 4 laned each side... terrific riding experience. But only one problem, 2-Wheeler is not allowed :-(</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qugqt3_cSVAOoDgf7T_08WQBFIQBK2RmVFTfm8fUJKyUeTY3T1wFkf7iO85q3ihe9nhXGO12-vnnIDZgklSrzZHl80SvqqsbUaJLMMIz3tQrGlzHkhLxW28zT8ZZ0xLlUayjXIX-eW2g/s1600/IMG20181110145646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qugqt3_cSVAOoDgf7T_08WQBFIQBK2RmVFTfm8fUJKyUeTY3T1wFkf7iO85q3ihe9nhXGO12-vnnIDZgklSrzZHl80SvqqsbUaJLMMIz3tQrGlzHkhLxW28zT8ZZ0xLlUayjXIX-eW2g/s400/IMG20181110145646.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Somehow, we managed to get out of it and went through the Hyderabad city, wasting almost an hour's time. By 4 pm we had our lunch that day. Today was the day for a change in cuisine - from Idli, Wada, Dosa to lip-smacking Biryani. We had it at A1 Green Bawarchi Restaurant, Secunderabad.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mb4p9U07dG4/XKi8q3WwXmI/AAAAAAAAZzc/4fnzMkBHar4IGu89hBi-Oe_zU-t9N3bCACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG-20181111-WA0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="988" data-original-width="1280" height="247" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mb4p9U07dG4/XKi8q3WwXmI/AAAAAAAAZzc/4fnzMkBHar4IGu89hBi-Oe_zU-t9N3bCACKgBGAs/s320/IMG-20181111-WA0037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our stop for the day was 100 kms away at Kamareddy. We reached by about 7 pm and got ourselves accommodated in a lodge near Bus Stand.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Route: Devanhalli - Anantapur - Kurnool - Mahbubnagar - Hyderabad - Kamareddy</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Kms covered: 697 for the day ; 1434 total</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>From Karnataka we crossed into Andhra Pradesh and then to Telangana.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><b>Day-3, Marching towards half-way:</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">We started ahead after tea again. Cold was felt for the first time today. Some distance ahead and we were blessed with an awesome view of the ride.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqPv283nLEY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Day-3 Awesome sunrise while we started from #kamareddy towards #agra #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #k2kride #amazingavenger #feellikegod</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-11-16T15:21:36+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 16, 2018 at 7:21am PST</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">By 8 we reached near Maharashtra border. We had our breakfast here - Parantha-Sabji and Chai for the first time.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Just while we were crossing into Maharashtra, we came across our first diversion on NH-44 due to some road construction work. This was awesome, because this was after whopping 1600 kms from where we started.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">Lunch was planned at Kiran's friend's house in Nagpur. After sumptuous homemade Punjabi lunch, we marched ahead immediately to save time.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;">As we were moving ahead, out of Nagpur city, there was this single laned road. We were waiting for a double lane road, our regular NH-44. Couple of ghats also came. For next 4 hours we continued driving on this road, thinking it to be our NH-44, waiting for a bigger, better and double laned road to come. With this we reached Narsingpur at 7 pm. This time we got a better hotel compared to lodges last two nights. Into our rooms we figured out what went wrong. W</span></span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">e had made another mistake while coming out of Nagpur. We missed some turns or road; and hence instead of joining the NH-44, we took to NH-47. Lucky for us that both these roads pass from Narsingpur; hence we reached our planned destination for the day.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Nv5C-gNcA4/XKhTVVHSHCI/AAAAAAAAZxA/MwnznxG85h880zFQhFQomc-WuQd4gdTtACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181111164847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Nv5C-gNcA4/XKhTVVHSHCI/AAAAAAAAZxA/MwnznxG85h880zFQhFQomc-WuQd4gdTtACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181111164847.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">A caveat: Distance from both these roads is almost same. NH-44 has so far been the big road with 2 lanes and a divider while NH-47 was single laned narrow road, not plain enough and also had couple of ghats. Still Google Maps was showing NH-47 as the best route when we had checked 3-4 times in between.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Route: Kamareddy - Adilabad - Nagpur - Chhindwara - Narsingpur</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Kms covered: 658 for the day ; 2092 total</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>From Telangana we reached into Madhya Pradesh, passing through Maharashtra.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><b>Day-4, Winter Is Coming!!!</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">This was our most chilly ride so far. Gradually as we were cruising North, we felt drop in temperature; and this felt terrible during early morning rides.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We started from our hotel by searching direction for NH-44 on Google Maps. We didn't want to miss again this time. Once we joined, we started cruising ahead. Chill in the air was taking its toll; we were longing to wait for some hot tea & some warm fire. But we carried on for an hour and then stopped at a road side tea-shop.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqQx0ntH-Gr/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Day-4 Our first tryst with chilling cold... A fireplace in a village tea stall was a heaven... #k2kride #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #amazingavenger #feellikegod #madhyapradesh</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-11-17T00:58:00+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 16, 2018 at 4:58pm PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Again after 2 hours, we broke for breakfast at Sagar. From here we reached Jhansi at 12.30 pm. Here we took a break for 30 mins. Reason was to tighten the chain of my bike. It loosened and was creating noise. But we figured out that nothing much can be done; unless replacement. We could not afford that now, time wise. Hence with some adjustment, we started ahead. </span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">I was terribly excited being entering Jhansi for the first time. Actually, I wanted to spend some time & explore this land of </span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Rani Laxmibai. But, we didn't had time.</span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"> </span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we entered Jhansi, I was trying to captured some glimpse of a monument or a fort of the bygone era. However, I could see a statue of the Queen on the other side of the road. This was the only memory that I could capture of Jhansi. Sad, it deserved more. This was my second wish - could not be fulfilled fully.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3ciNEoLhQ4/XKhTg53amxI/AAAAAAAAZxE/zRCYvwGuxtwhMPYg8z1JLQ_zTbJUkyvyQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181112124057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3ciNEoLhQ4/XKhTg53amxI/AAAAAAAAZxE/zRCYvwGuxtwhMPYg8z1JLQ_zTbJUkyvyQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG20181112124057.jpg" width="292" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we crossed Jhansi, next couple of hours were the most boring period of our ride. A long stretch (about 60 kms) of the road was under construction. There were multiple diversions, dusty roads, roads going through crowded market place due to lack of a fly-over or a bypass, single lane functioning, etc.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we crossed Dabra, we had our lunch for the day. It was awesome; the North Indian meals of Roti / Naan and Paneer Sabji / Dal.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then came another Royal Capital, Gwalior. As we were bypassing through the city, I was trying to catch a glimpse of Gwalior Fort. But to no vain.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As Morena passed, another renowned place came by. I was eager to capture it as well. The infamous Chambal Valley. Though now it is perfectly safe, one could imagine how terrifying it would have been with all Burglar Gangs active in here (e.g. Phoolan Devi).</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z6t5Pa3PFS0/XKhTqQ3_zzI/AAAAAAAAZxI/6f9fet9kdxkRXuB--REFIYw7tMySonipACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181112171345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1228" data-original-width="1600" height="306" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z6t5Pa3PFS0/XKhTqQ3_zzI/AAAAAAAAZxI/6f9fet9kdxkRXuB--REFIYw7tMySonipACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181112171345.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bdfqbYC0ljg/XKhTqQGNxiI/AAAAAAAAZxI/8QLq2DB5xYcbM7LWBr9W8EzGz4MipZAPACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181112171408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bdfqbYC0ljg/XKhTqQGNxiI/AAAAAAAAZxI/8QLq2DB5xYcbM7LWBr9W8EzGz4MipZAPACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181112171408.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By 7 pm we reached Agra. It took little bit of searching for hotel; however, we did get a good deal.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our plan was to reach Agra by 5 and try to visit Taj Mahal the same day. However, now we decided to visit next morning. We wanted to avoid this so that we could start on time and reach Amritsar on time.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Route: </i><i>Narsingpur</i><i> - Sagar - Jhansi - Gwalior - Morena - Agra</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Kms covered: 608 for the day ; 2700 total</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>From Madhya Pradesh we reached into Uttar Pradesh, with multiple crossings between Rajasthan, MP and UP.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><b>Day-5, Wah Taj!!!</b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Yesterday, we were discussing the possibility of visiting The Taj. We missed the chance to visit yesterday due to our delay. Now, if we had to visit next morning, we can go there only after 6 am, as it opens for public at that time. This means our onward ride delays. So far we had ensure that we are hitting the road before 6.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-484XLWMCz0c/XKhTzoSkT5I/AAAAAAAAZxM/lMfX5JSUiLEiatxvh2QeLR9Xbn8JjyyMACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181113055845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-484XLWMCz0c/XKhTzoSkT5I/AAAAAAAAZxM/lMfX5JSUiLEiatxvh2QeLR9Xbn8JjyyMACKgBGAs/s640/IMG20181113055845.jpg" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Morning walk to the Taj</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">But this would have been unfair to miss the beauty even being in its land. We started off towards Taj Mahal at 5.30 am. We didn't wanted to miss the first entry and hence avoid getting delayed ahead. We also decided to just enter the Main Gate (Darwaza-i-Rauza) and view Taj from there. We decided not to venture inside due to paucity of time.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bt2bbGOARjf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bt2bbGOARjf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">What else can be an apt post but about this Monument of Love...? #happyvalentinesday #itsmytravelogue #instalogues #incredibleindia #teardroponthecheekoftime #uptourism #uttarpradeshtourism #k2kride #epicjourney #kanyakumaritokashmir #tajmahal #agra #uttarpradesh #india</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-02-14T05:27:36+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 13, 2019 at 9:27pm PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">By 5.45 am we were already at the queue for entry. This was a unique sight. Number of foreigners were overwhelmingly more than the Indians. Indians must have been sleeping underneath heavy blanket on that cold morning :-)</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aNKZsRoNUOE/XKhUBo_Rb6I/AAAAAAAAZxQ/BUm_sCrcz9YPaYoSTXQGloyGKk7ae4KEwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181113063204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="1600" height="119" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aNKZsRoNUOE/XKhUBo_Rb6I/AAAAAAAAZxQ/BUm_sCrcz9YPaYoSTXQGloyGKk7ae4KEwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181113063204.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">They opened the gates 5 mins early and we entered. Crossing past the Main Gate, we spent about 15 mins there - watching the beauty coming to light in that morning rays. This was the first time <a href="https://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.com/2016/02/cars-bikes-taj-february-2016.html" target="_blank">since my previous 2 visits</a>, I watched the Taj with minimal crowd in my frame. Actually, there was nobody on the platform.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">From here we rushed back. But not without spending some time at the Statue of Shivaji Maharaj. This was my 3rd wish since we planned this trip. In front of the main gate of Agra Fort, an equestrian statue of the Maratha King has been installed. Uniqueness about this is that it is facing the Fort in attacking stance. This is to commemorate his escape from the prison of Aurangzeb, considered by many as humiliation to the Mughal Empire.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqIaAiEn9BL/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqIaAiEn9BL/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Proud moment : Statue of our idol / deity / King in a distant land. Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's equestrian statue facing the Agra Fort. This is to commemorate Shivaji Maharaj's heroics of fleeing from his captivity by Aurangzeb. #k2kride #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #nohonkride #amazingavenger #feellikegod</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kaustubhaa/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@kaustubhaa) on <time datetime="2018-11-13T18:55:59+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 13, 2018 at 10:55am PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">It was a moment of pride for us to watch this befitting memorial of our King in a distant land, 1000s of kms away.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We came back to hotel by 7 am. After tying our bags on bikes and other formalities, we were good to go by 7.30; about 1.5 hours late that our usual standard time. However, this was already considered.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We rode towards Mathura and just before Haryana-UP border stopped for some breakfast - Gulshan Dhaba Murthal wala.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">As we approached Delhi NCR, before Faridabad, we came across a large bypass equivalent to an Expressway. Some enquiry and came to know this to be Western Peripheral Expressway (or Kundali-Manesar-Palwal Expressway). We saw some bikes going over it. However, we had the Nehru ORR (Hyderabad) experience back of our minds. We confirmed with 2-3 drivers and bikers. They said since the Expressway is newly constructed and official inauguration is not yet done, bikes can use it (it is actually not allowed for 2-wheelers); however, they told this is the longer way. Passing through city would be a better option.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">However, seeing the awesome road in front of us and chance to ride here, we decided to go through it, letting it be a long route. We were intercepted by Delhi Police though. However, they enquired about our ride, were impressed learning that we are riding from Kanyakumari and hence let us go wishing us. :-)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">And what a ride it was!!! 150 kms of Expressway; almost 2.5 hours of ride; not a soul in between... The weather was cloudy and also foggy. The ride cost us about 50 kms more than the Delhi City road; but all the way, it was worth it.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i><b>Western Peripheral Expressway on Google Maps</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We joined the NH-44 at Kundali Naka - the Delhi-Haryana Border. We had our lunch at Pahalwan Dhaba near Sonipat.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">With a short tea break at Singh Vaishno Dhaba near Sirhind, it took us 7 pm to reach Ludhiana. Amritsar was still 150 kms ahead and it would be getting dark soon. We had an option to stay at Jalandhar (60 kms more) and again start off to Amritsar next morning; or stretch some more and directly reach Amritsar. This would help us toil hard today, but enjoy full rest tomorrow (save us from getting up early and start off in the morning). This would also save our time in hotel search at another place.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">From Jalandhar, we moved away from NH-44 for connecting to Amritsar. By 10 pm, we reached Amritsar. Reached near Bus Stand and searched out a decent hotel - Paras Regency.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJImRg8qtkn2vsmKJynN-V3PlG-mWiy7LsqgJixOJSf33lU3axy2p2ZOou1EGqBzP8uyNw2FJRu0vDSEVU0IzIutVzjp09gsTdm_EjylXaNiQk4yn_f2HPQUx5f07uKlABe6rO_PRqgqh5/s1600/IMG20181113214845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJImRg8qtkn2vsmKJynN-V3PlG-mWiy7LsqgJixOJSf33lU3axy2p2ZOou1EGqBzP8uyNw2FJRu0vDSEVU0IzIutVzjp09gsTdm_EjylXaNiQk4yn_f2HPQUx5f07uKlABe6rO_PRqgqh5/s400/IMG20181113214845.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Entering Amritsar</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Today's was the most stretched day - kms wise it was second most distance covered, while time wise it was the longest (we actually started at 5.30 am for Taj Mahal and stopped riding at 10 pm) with 16.5 hours of riding.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Route: </i><i>Agra - Mathura - Delhi (bypassed) - Sonipat - Panipat - Karnal - Ludhiana - Jalandhar - Amritsar</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Kms covered: 723 for the day ; 3423 total</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>From Uttar Pradesh we crossed into Delhi, Haryana and then into Punjab.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><b>Day-6, Worship and Pride...</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Today was our rest day and the day of sight-seeing. The only day allocated fully for roaming around. No time-bound target for the day.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We got up late, got ready lazily and then started off for the highlight of Amritsar - Harmandir Saheb, most famous as The Golden Temple. This is by far the holiest shrine for Sikhs. Recognized as </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">अठ सथ तीरथ (shrine of 68 pilgrimages). It is also referred as Darbar Saheb.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Golden Temple is the Gurudwara built in-between a man-made pool of water. It was built by the 4th Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ram Das in 1577. The 5th Guru, Guru Arjan, placed a copy of Adi Granth Saheb in 1604. For next 150 years it was persecuted by Muslim armies many times; however rebuilt repeatedly by the Sikhs. The present day structure was built in 1764-1776. In the start of 18th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh laid it's present marble structure and overlaid the sanctum with Gold foil. Hence the name.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqNMp4gH0zy/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Shri Harmandir Saheb, more famous as Golden Temple - holiest shrine for Sikhs. It is most important religious place in Sikhism. - #amritsar , #punjab , #india #k2kride #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #amazingavenger #feellikegod #goldentemple</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kaustubhaa/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@kaustubhaa) on <time datetime="2018-11-15T15:35:30+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 15, 2018 at 7:35am PST</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Gurudwara Complex is nominated as as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Apart from Gurudwara and the Water-pool, the Complex houses Akal Takht (center of religious authority), Clock Tower, place for Langar & Offices of Gurudwara Committee.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Golden Temple is open for worship for all men & women from any faith, religion and walks of life. Only binding is the head to be covered with a cloth (can be a handkerchief or a dupatta). About 100,000 people visit here daily.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Road towards the Golden Temple is very narrow from Bus Stand. There is a flyover going over this narrow road, making this even more congested. It felt as if the structure like this deserves a better access.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AUcb8RNWJ-s/XKhXM0zo1CI/AAAAAAAAZyU/RjWKmmWPrp4BnTKQGaDvRYk2mATHVNqxwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181114105415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AUcb8RNWJ-s/XKhXM0zo1CI/AAAAAAAAZyU/RjWKmmWPrp4BnTKQGaDvRYk2mATHVNqxwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181114105415.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uwXlXPqGPUI/XKhXWfwaZyI/AAAAAAAAZyY/zSzn-sc1NG03bY9nIn90lNunFlpA8DwgQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181114105728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="889" data-original-width="1600" height="221" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uwXlXPqGPUI/XKhXWfwaZyI/AAAAAAAAZyY/zSzn-sc1NG03bY9nIn90lNunFlpA8DwgQCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181114105728.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">As we proceed ahead, there is a large square with a huge statue of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh in the center. From here there is a sudden change in surroundings. The street is well laid. Statues displaying Punjabi and Sikh culture attract you. Shops are well lined-up with names and hoardings in same format / template; whether it's McDonald's or a local Lassi-wala.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wH4wSYozf5o/XKhU8dwNhnI/AAAAAAAAZxk/aZTup0co9DEaK-T47_x7JZoq3CuhHnvNACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181114110459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wH4wSYozf5o/XKhU8dwNhnI/AAAAAAAAZxk/aZTup0co9DEaK-T47_x7JZoq3CuhHnvNACKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181114110459.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Jalianwala Baug is just next to the Golden Temple. However, we didn't had much time as Attari Border was lined-up next. Hence after a glass full of Amritsari Lassi, we marched into the Temple Complex.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q1l4lMeo71E/XKhVCR14WLI/AAAAAAAAZxo/_AAQqf_Pfi0zWOQNR0N0Xs38klde_j4zQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181114110039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="739" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q1l4lMeo71E/XKhVCR14WLI/AAAAAAAAZxo/_AAQqf_Pfi0zWOQNR0N0Xs38klde_j4zQCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181114110039.jpg" width="183" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jalianwala Baug Memorial</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">As we climbed down the steps, shining Gold on a bright sunny morning caught the eye. The sight was mesmerizing. Its golden reflection in the clean water below was looking beautiful. We just waited for a moment to sink the view in our memories.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">After some photo-ops, we marched for the darshan. However, this took lot of time. We had not considered this. It took us almost an hour to complete the darshan. By 1 pm we reached back to our hotel.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Next was the Lowering of Flags Ceremony (some call it as Beating Retreat) at Attari Border. Actual ceremony started at 5 pm; however we were told that crowd starts appearing from 2 pm onwards in order to capture better sitting position.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">However, rush in Golden Temple delayed our visit plan. We started from our hotel by 1.15 pm. We decided to ride on our bikes. This was highlight of our ride. A sense of pride filled inside us as we were riding on the Grand Trunk Road, the road that crosses border into Pakistan. Attari Border is about 29 kms </span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">from Amritsar. On the way we stopped for a while to get our vehicles washed. In order to avoid time loss, we skipped our lunch.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we drove our sparkling bikes ahead, came my 4th wish - to capture a snap in front of signboard / milestone mentioning Lahore.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y7XC-A_gQeM/XKhXgEJqM4I/AAAAAAAAZyg/8Dkj79e1bE08BOzcsfdSmGjaz0u4whyEgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG-20181116-WA0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="544" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y7XC-A_gQeM/XKhXgEJqM4I/AAAAAAAAZyg/8Dkj79e1bE08BOzcsfdSmGjaz0u4whyEgCKgBGAs/s400/IMG-20181116-WA0006.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And a km prior to Attari Border, we were greeted by the massive Tri-color waving hard. That was a sight to watch. At the same time a Delhi-Lahore Bus passed ahead of us; it did had some security and pilot vehicles.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BqP0AyQnWyZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">The Tricolor waving high at the #attariborder , #india - #pakistan #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #k2kride #amazingavenger #feellikegod #wagahborder #amritsar #punjab</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kaustubhaa/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@kaustubhaa) on <time datetime="2018-11-16T15:57:54+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 16, 2018 at 7:57am PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After parking our bikes, we entered inside through the huge "Swarna Jayanti Dwar". The Grand Trunk Roads goes into Pakistan through the Zero Line. On both side of the Line are the Gates of India and Pakistan which were closed. On both side of the Road were the Stands / Viewing Gallery. It was huge at the Indian side. At Pakistani side, they were much less in comparison. On their side also, Pakistani flag was fluttering on a high pole.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7bghXFhG6l4/XKhXnjt-l7I/AAAAAAAAZyk/kAURvuA9MDwcPGRRiEOozdhbD6YmjnMkwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181114151926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7bghXFhG6l4/XKhXnjt-l7I/AAAAAAAAZyk/kAURvuA9MDwcPGRRiEOozdhbD6YmjnMkwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181114151926.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOAHXLpPwXo/XKhXx1glSpI/AAAAAAAAZys/nkxm72HgmJI9n1J7fSS4_pK27rYEi0DrQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG20181114160801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1600" height="167" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOAHXLpPwXo/XKhXx1glSpI/AAAAAAAAZys/nkxm72HgmJI9n1J7fSS4_pK27rYEi0DrQCKgBGAs/s400/IMG20181114160801.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Panorama - Pakistan on the left</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElwQ0ohc9fQi9meObXGhmRPlMFVeCDgEXDAQ9cOTiz1QMfjV0hh_tM7WFmsJKub3EbkqPnoirwGJ7OQJ_T_ExTC1Ak_73emXhiHxMGozFBZ7C7-xWnwaxvfY3yCqDTE4X92I0artv5eYG/s1600/IMG20181114161620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1600" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElwQ0ohc9fQi9meObXGhmRPlMFVeCDgEXDAQ9cOTiz1QMfjV0hh_tM7WFmsJKub3EbkqPnoirwGJ7OQJ_T_ExTC1Ak_73emXhiHxMGozFBZ7C7-xWnwaxvfY3yCqDTE4X92I0artv5eYG/s400/IMG20181114161620.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Closer view of Border Gates - Pakistan on other side</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When we reached, already 50% crowd had occupied their seats. Others were still coming. माहौल बन रहा था; the buzz was prep-ing up. Patriotic songs were being played; crowd was getting pumped-up, they were dancing and swinging. Occasionally the Border Gates were opened for passengers who were crossing through (into or from Pakistan). The Delhi-Lahore Bus which crossed us earlier, now came to the Border Crossing (must be after routine checks & immigration procedures) and crossed over into Pakistan. There were cheers and whistles and waves to these passengers from the crowd. They were waving back too.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">BSF Officers were hosting the event. Cheering the crowds, making them dance to the tune. He called in the kids on the road. They were given Indian flags and were told to run towards the Zero Line. They he called upon the women folk. Gradually, this number rose to more than 200 women and children dancing & celebrating on the road.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A large Tri-color was being moved through the crowd and people were getting excited to let the Flag pass over them.</span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/iJWbznujGvE/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iJWbznujGvE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is one caveat: no abusing of other country is allowed. All you can cheer are the three slogans only - वन्दे मातरम, भारत माता की जय and हिंदुस्तान ज़िंदाबाद.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 hours passed in no time, enjoying this fervor. Lowering of Flags Ceremony started at 5 pm. The parade that happens on both sides is a sight to cherish. The way they walk, raise their legs as high as possible (even above their foreheads), display their coordinated manoeuvres as they march rapidly towards the border, their mannerisms displaying aggression through expressions and hand-postures, and a lot more is a view to watch. And all this with a thunder of cheer from the crowd at the back.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As the Sun starts to set, Gates are opened. Flags on both sides are lowered slowly with a background of Bugle. Flags waving in the area (even the Army & BSF Flags) also are lowered. The Flags are then properly folded and are carried back in full honors by the respective Officers; to be brought back next morning. With a brief hand-shake between Jawans at the Zero Line, Gates are closed. This ends the ceremony.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A thing to mention that BSF Officers also had a visible presence of Lady Officers in this Ceremony. And that is quiet remarkable.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While the ceremony was on, suddenly it started to rain. It was brief, but it was heavy. The crowd suddenly started running for cover. The front row stands became empty suddenly. However on the field, Ceremony was still on. The rains didn't hamper the routine of these Officers on duty ... RESPECT!!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After the end, we started for our return journey. Though rains had stopped, it brought the chill in the air. We didn't had any protection gear, except our helmet. This was getting very cold. The wet roads were resulting to spraying of muddy water wetting us and our bikes dirty. Clean, sparkling bike which we did at the washing centre, now again came to its previous, even worse condition.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Route: </i><i>Amritsar - Attari - Amritsar (with local riding)</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Kms covered: 70 for the day ; 3493 total</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><b>Day-7, The Final Lap...</b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Today's was an exciting day for us; our final lap. We were to achieve our goal; realize our dream. However, today's was the hard ride. So far we traveled through the 4 laned highway, plain tar road. This was not going to be the same. Distance to travel was least today, however road was supposed to a 200 kms ghat section with single lane and possible traffic jams and / closures. We had traveled through this twice before - first in a taxi for </span><a href="https://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.com/2015/07/vaishno-devi-calling-mata-kaa-bulawa.html" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;" target="_blank">Vaishnodevi-Srinagar Trip</a><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"> and then a </span><a href="https://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.com/2016/08/ladakh-landscapes-may-june-2016.html" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;" target="_blank">bike ride to Ladakh</a><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">. There were some news coming earlier about possible closure of highway due to snowfall and landslides. Hence we planned to start as early as 4 am.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">However, we got up from sleep late and started off by 5.30 am. After a quick tea, we moved ahead. By 7.30 we reached Pathankot, the last big town in Punjab. Stopped for a tea-break. Climate was very cold. It was really difficult to keep riding; but the target was in our sight. While tea was being made, we were warming ourselves at the gas stove.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Few kms ahead, we crossed in J&K at Lakhanpur. Technically, we achieved our target from Southernmost state of Tamil Nadu to the Northernmost state of Jammu & Kashmir. However, Kashmir was still 270 kms ahead.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We entered Jammu by 9 am. This was as per our plan. Now was uncertain time ahead. We knew till Udhampur (50 kms more) it was a good 4-lane highway. We were cruising over it enjoying the views and remembering our previous journeys over this highway. Last both times we had experienced traffic snarls near Udhampur town. However, this time we completely bypassed the town and were greeted with heavy construction work going on. This was a new development. Soon we realized the complete stretch between Udhampur and Jawahar Tunnel (Banihal) was being made into a 4-lane highway; and just to remind it is complete ghat section. After this happens, may be in next 4-5 years, the road between Kanyakumari to Srinagar would be a complete. And this is a WOW!!!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">All across, construction work and tunnel work is going on. The road was dusty and full with pits with a valley running down and beauty of snow-capped mountains in the background.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">About 30 kms of dirt riding from Udhampur, we came across another feather in the cap for India. An awesome master piece of developed India. The Chenani-Nashri (चनैनी-नाशरी) Tunnel - India's longest tunnel of 9.2 kms. This tunnel bypasses the traffic jams zone of the Patni Top (snowfall and landslide prone areas). This tunnel saves about 30 kms, equivalent 2 hours of travel-time. This has India's first Fully Integrated Tunnel Control System.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BrkvgCfnPDy/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BrkvgCfnPDy/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, #jammukashmir , #india : India's longest road tunnel - 9.2 kms #itsmytravelogue #incredibleindia #instalogues #epicjourney #k2kride #chenaninashritunnel #nh44 #amazingavenger #feellikegod #kanyakumaritokashmir</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-12-19T15:41:56+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Dec 19, 2018 at 7:41am PST</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">While the tunnel is a single lane road without separators for ongoing and incoming traffic, there is a separate tube running parallel to the main tunnel for full 9 kms which acts as an emergency exit (escape tunnel). Effective exhaust system ensures removal of vehicle gases. SOS telephone boxes are present. Tunnel is well under surveillance through CCTV Cameras. It has lay-bys at regular intervals to park the broken-down vehicles, which are then immediately towed away from the Escape Tube. It also has fire safety measures. In case of traffic violation by the vehicle drivers, vehicles are pulled-our by the traffic cops outside and fined; this is controlled with help from CCTV Cameras. Speed limit inside the tunnel for all vehicles is 50 kmph. Overtaking is not allowed; crossing into oncoming lane is prohibited.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">As we came near the tunnel, we got it clarified whether 2-Wheelers are allowed inside; again our Nehru ORR experience ;-) and also, there were some mentions online that 2Ws are not allowed here. However, we got a confirmation from a J&K Police constable there. We even saw few other local bike commuters.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Within 10 minutes time we were on the other side of the tunnel; which otherwise could have taken 2 hours. Immediately came Peerah. Our regular hotspot for Rajma-Chawal. It was 1 pm and Srinagar was still about 150 kms ahead. Normally, we could have covered this in 1.5 hours; however, this type of terrain may very well take about 4-5 hours.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">As we cruised ahead again, snow clad mountains were calling us. In our company were the rivers of the region - Tawi to start with near Jammu, now Chenaab and Jhelum would be coming soon once inside Kashmir.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We were sensing the cold. Since it was pitch afternoon with Sun shining bright, the cold was bearable. However, as we were going near the Valley, this was going to get bitter. We had witnessed rapid change in climate over the past 7 days.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br />While enjoying this drive for 3rd time in 3 years, we reached the Jawahar Tunnel (Banihal Pass). I was having goose-bumps within me. Our dream was just 2.5 kms away. Till 1 week ago, that one thing which we were working towards, which I always felt that I may not be able to complete, that 1 thing for which so much efforts were taken, was in our reach. Crossing this Jawahar Tunnel would land us into THE KASHMIR VALLEY. As I entered inside the darkness, I knew we had done it, well almost.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We came out of the Tunnel and entered the paradise. Kashmir was reached. Technically, we had completed the Kanyakumari to Kashmir Bike Ride. Now reaching Srinagar was just a logistic arrangement. It was 4 pm. We completed the journey in 77 riding hours.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BwH0PzDH1Xj/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BwH0PzDH1Xj/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Jawahar Tunnel or Banihal Pass is the vital link between Kashmir Valley with rest of India. It is therefore strategically important for India & hence controlled by the BSF. Being an entry to the Valley, it is the Gateway to the Paradise on Earth. #itsmytravelogue #instalogues #incredibleindia #k2kride #epicjourney #feellikegod #entertheparadise #paradiseonearth #kashmir #onerideonenation</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-04-11T16:48:36+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Apr 11, 2019 at 9:48am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">As we were driving, I was feeling like we need to stop and congratulate each other. We did so on our bikes, waving hands, cheering, dancing, shouting. But actually waited couple of kms away at the Kashmir Viewpoint.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We parked our bikes, hugged each other. This was the moment. We actually completed our Dream Ride. This is not difficult, but it is definitely exhausting. And looking at the scope and range of travel distance, not many attempt it.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the Paradise</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kashmir Valley - First view</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">It was terrifyingly cold. Since we had riding gloves, our fingers had gone numb with chilling air entering through its ventilating pores. On the road, there was a local vendor selling woolens. We purchased the basic woolen hand-gloves as an additional protection. This was much better.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Now once we crossed through Jawahar Tunnel, we were atleast safe from road closures. Because next 90 kms now was a straight road. We could sense the changes since our previous visit 2.5 years ago. Road was complete 4-lane highway bypassing intermediate towns like Anantanag, Pampore, Awantipora, etc. Withing couple of hours, we reached Srinagar. Since we had loved our previous stay hotel, we decided to straightaway venture inside and grab a deal. With some searching, ofcourse, we found out of our hotel - Malik Palace, right across the Dal Lake.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B06GsHGnKSH/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Our Government have taken an important decision - abolition of Articles 370 and 35A. This doesn't mean we have won over others; there's never any winning against our own people. Also, let's not get into these jokes over this historic moment. Instead, let's welcome our people into the mainstream with open arms. Celebrate #Jammu , #Kashmir & #Ladakh . #instalogues #itsmytravelogue</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-08-08T15:23:09+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Aug 8, 2019 at 8:23am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">Now was our time for a peaceful sleep and end of targets for good.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">We had kept couple of days as reserved with 1 day for Gulmarg. We didn't encountered any delays on account of our health, bikes condition, any untoward mishap and traffic jam issues. Touch-wood. We reached at each of our daily destinations as decided. Hence now after next day sightseeing at Srinagar, we had two more days of free time. Our return flight was from Jammu on 19-Nov-18. Actually, as mentioned earlier, we had planned a ride till Gurez. But we decided to cancel it due to various uncertainties. And visit Gulmarg instead.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Route: </i><i>Amritsar - Batala - Gurdaspur - Pathankot - Lakhanpur - Kathua - Jammu - Udhampur - Ramban - Banihal - Anantnag - Srinagar</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>Kms covered: 490 for the day ; 3983 total</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: -webkit-center;"><i>From Punjab we crossed into Jammu & Kashmir, our target state.</i></span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/xc6vovTuuko/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xc6vovTuuko?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-center;">After getting freshen-up we started for a walk on the Boulevard Road around the famous Dal Lake. It was really cold out there; we were feeling it inside our closed room also. The whole evening we were just soaking in the feeling about successful completion of out attempt. We actually created the history for ourselves.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was at 8 am in the morning</span></i></td></tr>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-70736749344329923312018-08-13T21:12:00.001+05:302019-08-23T21:13:13.934+05:30Shaniwar-Wada - Identity of Pune<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shaniwar-wada has always been a true Identity of Pune. It is emblematic to the rich cultural heritage of the region.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shaniwar-wada was the seat of Peshwas (Prime Minister) of Maratha Empire until 1818. Peshwas being de-facto leaders of Marathas this was the place which, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">in late 17th Century,</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> virtually ruled entire India - well almost. Even Delhi was under the control of Marathas - </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;">दिल्लीचेही तख्त राखितो, महाराष्ट्र माझा </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(a Marathi song praising Maharashtra).</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BmbTV8PFc0m/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Shaniwar-wada has always been a true Identity of Pune. It is emblematic to the rich cultural heritage of the region. It was the seat of Peshwas (Prime Minister) of Maratha Empire until 1818. Peshwas being de-facto leaders of Marathas this was the place which, in late 17th Century, virtually ruled entire India - well almost. #punediaries #identityofpune #peshwahistory #itsmytravelogue #instalogues #glimpsesofpune</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-08-13T16:57:44+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Aug 13, 2018 at 9:57am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shaniwar-wada witnessed the golden period of Maratha dynasty. </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From Cuttack (</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Orissa) till Attock (in present day Pakistan), from Northern banks of Sindhu (Indus River) to Southern banks of Cauvery, all was under Maratha control. This was time when Delhi (Red Fort), Burhanpur (Mughal Empire's gateway into Deccan), Golconda (Seat of the Nizams) and Aurangabad (Aurangazeb's base in Deccan), all had Saffron fluttering over them. Once a Power House of Maratha Empire, Shaniwar-wada also witnessed their fall - Peshwa Narayanrao was mercilessly killed in a conspiracy hatched by his uncle Raghunathrao; this happened within these walls, in 1818 Marathas lost the 3rd Anglo-Maratha War resulting into fall of Maratha Empire; Shaniwar-wada came under the control of British. Once a magnum-opus residence of its Prime Minister, was now converted to a Police Station and a Mental Hospital. In 1828, massive fire gutted down the entire structure. This inferno lasted for a week (Shaniwar-wada was burning for 7 days). It is believed that the fire started from a Kitchen of Mental Hospital. For next 100 years, the place remained in a dilapidated state. It was in 1921 when Prince of Wales was to visit India and in Pune, that the place was cleaned-up and remains of Mental Hospital were removed. I think we should thank the Prince for this, atleast today visitors won't see a Mental Hospital inside this heritage.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">A dream of an official residence of the Peshwas was nurtured by Bajirao-I (Balaji Bajirao). His ambition was to take </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">मराठी जरिपटका</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> (the Saffron Flag)</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> to rule entire India; and Red Fort (Delhi) ruled India during that time. This is the reason, Shaniwar-wada was built with its North facing Main Gate, called </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">दिल्ली दरवाजा </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(Delhi Darwaza). It was very beautifully decorated / coloured. However, today slight impressions of these designs can seen, if observed carefully.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B1SdGNcHpEg/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Celebrate #PeshwaBajirao 's 320th birth anniversary today. This #Peshwa or the #PrimeMinister was instrumental in expanding #MarathaEmpire in India. Under #Peshwai , the Maratha Empire went ahead to rule Delhi in future. In his military career of 20 years, he never lost a single battle. #18Aug1700 #instalogues #itsmytravelogue #IncredibleIndia #PrideOfPune #GlimpsesOfPune #GoPro #MaharashtraDesha #MaharashtraUnlimited #GoProQuickStories @incredibleindia @mtdc_official @goproindia @gopro @desha.maharashtra</a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The bhoomi-poojan (ceremonial foundation) was done on January 10, 1730. It was a Saturday - hence the name (Shaniwar - Saturday; Wada - residential complex). It was completed in 1732. Initially Peshwa Bajirao-I had built small residential structure. It didn't had any fortification which we see today. Actually, they say Chhatrapati Shahu instructed to build fortification of Chest (Valour) & not from Stones (</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">कोट छातीचे नाही, तर मातीचे करा</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">). Ov</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">er the years Shaniwar-wada grew & developed to a strong bastion.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Peshwa Bajirao-I's son, Peshwa Nanasaheb, is the architect of Shaniwar-wada what we see today. This was the Golden Era of Marathas. He built the stone fortification around the Wada. There are 5 gates and 9 bastions in this fortification.</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To the North is Delhi Darwaja - this is the Main Entrance. It is guarded by two bastions on its sides. It is so large to allow elephants carrying Howdah / Ambari to enter inside. The Gates also have sharp spikes to avoid charging elephants in case of an attack. In case of a fall, if enemy barged inside, there was no straight entry. Behind the Gate is a strong wall. Enemy would have to take 'Z' turn, reducing its speed. Above this is false ceiling mechanism, supported by make-shift wooden columns. Ceiling is filled with mud, stones. The Maratha Defense just have to break these wooden columns, causing the ceiling to fall down on attacking enemy. They would get trapped inside the stones and mud and would also make difficult for other enemy attackers to come inside.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is another Gate facing North - towards North-East is the Mastani Darwaja (or Ali Bahadur Darwaza) - Peshwa Bajirao-I's 2nd wife, Mastani, used this Gate.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Facing East is Khidki Darwaja.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Facing East, towards South-East corner is Ganesh Darwaja - there used to be Ganesh Mahal in the vicinity; also it was used by people to visit the Kasaba Ganapti (which is Gram-Daivat of Pune). Just outside this Gate on outer side of fortification wall is a Ganesh Temple by the name Peshwe Ganpati.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Facing South is Jambhul Darwaja (Narayan Darwaja) - This gate was used by concubines. The name got changed after Peshwa Narayanrao was murdered by attackers on orders from Raghunathrao. His body is said to have cut into pieces. Those pieces were filled in a sack & it was taken out from this Gate for cremation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is no Gate facing West. During those days, there used to be a River called Amba. It is no longer present today, instead, Bajirao Road goes parallel to this wall. Ambil Odha (canal) which is still present in another part of city today, must have been a part of this Amba River. To avoid flood waters entering inside, no Gate was provided in this direction.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Above Main Gate is the Nagar-Khana. Teak Wooden frames & arches are still intact here. Equestrian Statue of Peshwa Bajirao-I facing towards Delhi looks very awesome from here. On the opposite side, is the view of inner Gardens. On both sides of Nagar-Khana, there is an exit over the fortification walls. One can walk around the Wada over it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once inside one can see only the remains of a magnificent building complex once stood here. Some of its structures were as high as 7 storeyed. It is said that at its peak, about 1000 people lived here. Signs are visible everywhere. The structure was mainly wooden; with use of Teak Wood, exquisite display of art was present in its arches and pillars. After its destruction during British attack and then the fire, the wooden structure was destroyed leaving behind its stone foundation. This foundation can be seen today.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are well laid out boards explaining about name & importance of each place / buildings.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Buildings:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mastani Mahal: Immediately at left corner after entering inside the Main G</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ate was residence of Mastani (near Mastani Darwaja).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> कचेरी चा खण / चौक (Office Area) - This was the area where Office Staff used to sit & work; locals used to visit these Clerks for their issues. This was located at central location - walking straight ahead from the Main Gate.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">चाफे खण - This place was behind the Office Area. Fadnavis or the Head Administrator used to sit here. Even Peshwa used to sit & meet people at a place nearby this.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">गौरी चा सोपा - Behind Chafe Khan, this was the place for Royal Ladies. Gauri-Ganpati festival used to be celebrated here. Ladies used to celebrate all their annual festivals, rituals and savor food here.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">राघोबा चा वाडा - To the right used to be residential place of Peshwa Raghunathrao</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">गणेश महाल - Also known as Ganesh Rang Mahal, was one of the very colourful & extravagant structure of the Wada. It used to be the Diwan-Khana or the Main Darbar Hall. It was built by Peshwa Nanasaheb & the Peshwa Darbar used to gather here. Peshwa Sawai Madhavrao used to live above Ganesh Mahal. He died at a very young age by falling down from his window over a fountain below. The reason, however, is a mystery - whether it was a suicide or he lost his balance (as he was not well at that time).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">हजारी कारंजे - Wada had multiple fountains inside, prominent among them is the Hajari Karanje (Fountain with a Thousand jets). It was said to have constructed for pleasure of infant Peshwa Sawai Madhavrao. Constructed into Lotus shaped design, it had a complicated & intricate design resulting into about 1000 jets of water. Today, this as well as other fountains are revived using modern piping system. These are ON during a Sound, Light & Laser Show every evening after 7.15 pm.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Apart from these, there are places like संध्येचा चौक </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(place to carry out a brahmin ritual), </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">रहाटाचा बंगला </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(a Well to take out water in nearby), </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">गोदुबाई चा निवास (separate residence for Peshwa Nanasaheb's brother's widow). There used to be a fountain below Ganesh Mahal and also a Water Tank (हौद</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">) nearby which had a provision of making colorful lighting</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> using colored glasses and water stream fell over them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Apart from Ganesh Mahal, there were few more - </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">थोरल्या रायांचा दिवाणखाना </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(Darbar Hall of Peshwa Bajirao), Dance Hall, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">आरसे महाल </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(Mirror Hall).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A Bastion at the South-East corner near Ganesh Darwaza, was called as खजिन्याचा बुरूज. The name because, below the bastion used to be water storage for usage inside Shaniwar Wada.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They say the place is haunted. Peshwa Narayanrao's assassination is a heart-wrenching narrative of greed & betrayal; and some people have weaved a ghost-story, a rumour around this Place. On a Full Moon Night, noises are heard inside the Wada, the last words of Narayanrao - काका मला वाचवा !!! (Uncle, save me !!!).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is a sad state of affairs that the place which once ruled entire India, today lies in a dilapidated state. However, conditions are improving. Many people are visiting nowadays. A Sound, Light & Laser Show is also started. Heritage Walks do happen. The site is already in the itinerary of Pune Darshan bus service.</span></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com2Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411030, India18.5193765 73.8553339-34.394048 -8.7618535999999949 71.432801 156.4725214tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-33481245594955783612017-11-01T10:05:00.000+05:302017-12-23T17:54:38.674+05:30Go Goa!!! Ride - November 2017<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Goa is synonymous to sun, sea, sand & seafood. Also not to forget, alcohol. Here one can see a nice blend of Indian & Portuguese culture. Number of churches, the structure of houses & lifestyle of people is largely catholic. Goa has always has this aura of something out of Indian; that you won't find elsewhere in India.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Post our awesome <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2016/08/ladakh-landscapes-may-june-2016.html" target="_blank">Ladakh Ride</a>, we were wanting to take another one. Goa was always in my mind as I had never been there; barring once when I was in school, & that should not be counted at all ;-)</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">November 1, 2017:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">After all basic bike preparations, we kicked-off from Pune at 6.30 in the morning. We had decided to take the NH-4 Highway till Kolhapur and then break away for NH-17 via Amboli ghat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">We were 5 of us with 5 bikes (Avenger, Classic, 2 Thunderbirds and a ST7). We decided a meet-up point near Narhe-Ambegaon and proceeded to our onward journey.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">We took a breakfast stop at Hotel Virangula (before Satara). We covered approx. 80 kms in about 1.5 hours time. Thanks to no traffic due to a weekday. We had sumptuous breakfast of Misal-Pav and hot Tea.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a short break at Karad (80 kms further ahead), we reached Kolhapur; our target for lunch for the day. We had a special Kolhapuri (Tambada-Pandhara) Lunch at Hotel Parakh. With a heavy stomach & much reluctance, we embarked for further ride.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We rode about 40 kms more on the NH-4. Entering Karnataka state, slightly ahead of Nipani there is a right turn towards Amboli, Sawantwadi & Goa. This is called as Goa Phata or the Goa Ves. Even there is a hotel by the name Goa Ves; and another as Kaveri.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-go5Ivk5MItc/Wj4e1NZ-BhI/AAAAAAAAWOY/yXYcRwuugUIJ3sY8Q6HVwvhLIpxjGehIgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-go5Ivk5MItc/Wj4e1NZ-BhI/AAAAAAAAWOY/yXYcRwuugUIJ3sY8Q6HVwvhLIpxjGehIgCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0005.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was our end to the Highway drive and what we entered was a rustic village setting and small roads. Again back into Maharashtra, we reached Amboli Ghat, leaving villages behind - Uttur, Ajara.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Amboli Ghat drive was awesome. Considering the rains that lash this area, the road was fairly good. Scenery around was beautiful. As we descended the Ghat, the road twirled through dense forest area. This was another experience ride of the day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next big town at the descend of the Ghat is Sawantwadi. Riding along a beautiful lake in the town centre was great. I was not knowing such a beautiful lake exists in between, called Moti Talao, which I came to know later. While riding by its side, I was getting a feeling of Mall Road in Nainital (though in a miniature way).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After Sawantwadi we joined the NH-17 (Mumbai-Goa Highway). We crossed into Goa state at Banda checkpost. Further, we actually should have exited before Pernem towards right for Vagator, which was our destination. We even enquired at that place. But we got wrong info. And we moved ahead till Mhapusa and Shivoli and then reached Vagator.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Actually we reached Goa by 6.30 pm. About 420 kms in 12 hours. But we took another hour or so reach our destination and to search a stay option.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We were able to find an Apartment at very cheap rate; being an off-season ofcourse. Two apartments of two rooms each for two nights - 3000 Rs.</span><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Route: Pune-Satara-Kolhapur-Nipani-Amboli-Sawantwadi-Banda-Vagator (Goa)</i><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m34!1m12!1m3!1d1779568.9271232958!2d73.93085573498372!3d17.06208385239017!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m19!3e0!4m5!1s0x3bc2bf2e67461101%3A0x828d43bf9d9ee343!2sPune%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d18.520430299999997!2d73.8567437!4m5!1s0x3bbff55db3fde143%3A0xd218c3cfe9f48ec0!2sSawantwadi%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d15.9052627!2d73.8213213!4m5!1s0x3bbfe97d6e4b498f%3A0xe891136b039794d2!2sVagator%2C+Goa!3m2!1d15.598859299999999!2d73.7566114!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1513924683606" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">November 2, 2017:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">Next two days were relaxed one's for us. Today was even better as we had nothing to day. Tomorrow, atleast we had to leave Goa in the afternoon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">After a lazy breakfast at a local restaurant, we visited the Vagator Beach. However, it was just a small beach but was rocky enough. There was nothing much to do. After a brief photo-op, we started for our planned destination of the day - Arambol Beach.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZnVjf7FJ774/Wj4e8lgd9VI/AAAAAAAAWOg/Q9fCfyDltcgObEQVVkAnlm_qQqbMjL2EACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZnVjf7FJ774/Wj4e8lgd9VI/AAAAAAAAWOg/Q9fCfyDltcgObEQVVkAnlm_qQqbMjL2EACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0006.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Djembe hanging at the restaurant</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">North Goa is famous for its beaches. As you go far inside, the beaches of Baga & Calangute are renowned. However, they are are crowded & commercialised. The one's in this part of Goa (towards the entry point, north most side) are more pristine & relaxed. Hence most of the tourists visiting here, come for relaxation. One can find many foreigners here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">Arambol beach is beautiful & serene. It is said to be one of the best beaches of Goa. With shacks on its edge and clean white sand below, this was a great relaxation point for us. Being an off-season, it was not crowded. But whoever we saw here were mostly foreigners. Indians, though very few, started gathering a bit late.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hlyn4tQ7I6s/Wj4fKehJWdI/AAAAAAAAWOk/mMMYJOkYluQeL0eSrHZK8pcxJiKq0QhggCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hlyn4tQ7I6s/Wj4fKehJWdI/AAAAAAAAWOk/mMMYJOkYluQeL0eSrHZK8pcxJiKq0QhggCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0018.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Arambol Beach</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">The road to the beach goes through the small market in Arambol village. Many shops, mostly of clothes, are lined-up on both sides of road.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">On the beach, we had a small stroll, walking over the clean sand cutting through the waves. before relaxing into one of the shacks. These shacks are lined-up at the back provided a seating area facing the sea. There were Beach Beds lined-up in front.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1HEQkwiASos/Wj4fVQF9fsI/AAAAAAAAWOo/sS0yDmPkuWotXdcbk0rLlvO-QVmOyKGzQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1HEQkwiASos/Wj4fVQF9fsI/AAAAAAAAWOo/sS0yDmPkuWotXdcbk0rLlvO-QVmOyKGzQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gszSYih4MhA/Wj4f6V9AKhI/AAAAAAAAWPA/3lUyMtwUqWEGBpdhgIdcsZgUb2tuvsR-gCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gszSYih4MhA/Wj4f6V9AKhI/AAAAAAAAWPA/3lUyMtwUqWEGBpdhgIdcsZgUb2tuvsR-gCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0054.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eCUsffnUpso/Wj4f8Sc3GBI/AAAAAAAAWPE/_yAqh2VrJZMEq_k7_HkCJnFp1URp7D2QQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eCUsffnUpso/Wj4f8Sc3GBI/AAAAAAAAWPE/_yAqh2VrJZMEq_k7_HkCJnFp1URp7D2QQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0057.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZK9ZpKs2oJU/Wj5H3vtUJ5I/AAAAAAAAWQc/7XSC8e5AipQkqc2xEMZZfB-5oHbqpMFHgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZK9ZpKs2oJU/Wj5H3vtUJ5I/AAAAAAAAWQc/7XSC8e5AipQkqc2xEMZZfB-5oHbqpMFHgCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0048.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Some amongst us went to the sea for a swim; I however, preferred to just sit and enjoy the place with a pint of beer and snacks. We spent the whole day there, with some add-ons of massage & tattoo in between.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ox4BnWTuCQ4/Wj4fZr1rYmI/AAAAAAAAWOs/mgfIODRXI-EONK2IcIF454Ug3CaeBue_QCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG-20171102-WA0064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ox4BnWTuCQ4/Wj4fZr1rYmI/AAAAAAAAWOs/mgfIODRXI-EONK2IcIF454Ug3CaeBue_QCKgBGAs/s320/IMG-20171102-WA0064.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By the time the sun moved towards west, the shack employees started to take back the Beach Beds; maybe they started their preparation for the night life. We found that crowd had also increased. While we left, we saw a person playing a guitar.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iszyr-mFzp8/Wj4f1oEFlMI/AAAAAAAAWO8/9i-XJID04vkzzxhfY2NNYxHK5pAM70xWgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iszyr-mFzp8/Wj4f1oEFlMI/AAAAAAAAWO8/9i-XJID04vkzzxhfY2NNYxHK5pAM70xWgCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0058.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was byfar one of the most relaxed vacations of my life. I "actually" did nothing the whole day.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">November 3, 2017:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">Today, we had to leave Goa for Tarkarli. However, we had planned to visit Chapora Fort prior. But first w</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">e had breakfast, again at the same local restaurant.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Fort is named on Chapora River to which it overlooks. Currently it is in ruins, however it was once very strategically important to Portuguese because of its location on northern boundary of Goa. These ruins still provide a very good landscape. And not forget the view it provides from top - Chapora River & beaches of Chapora, Anjuna & Vagator can be seen.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KfPRm4bedTw/Wj4gD78BqCI/AAAAAAAAWPI/bc_BQHbZCooZ9fScvd00xoX1nJKgc1JrwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KfPRm4bedTw/Wj4gD78BqCI/AAAAAAAAWPI/bc_BQHbZCooZ9fScvd00xoX1nJKgc1JrwCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0066.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Chapora Fort</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MFgC0WnD-Ys/Wj4gObMagsI/AAAAAAAAWPQ/DrcIovZOvVgSwJBXQ_i9LQ_57Kl5JF1vACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MFgC0WnD-Ys/Wj4gObMagsI/AAAAAAAAWPQ/DrcIovZOvVgSwJBXQ_i9LQ_57Kl5JF1vACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0072.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Vagator Beach - view from Chapora Fort</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The current construction of the Fort is of 17th century by Portuguese, however its history goes back to 15th century when they first came to Goa. Marathas under the rule of Chatrapati Sambhaji did conquer the fort for first time in 1684 and then again in 1737.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Fort shot to fame due to the Hindi movie "Dil Chahata Hai", so much so that it is still known as "Dil Chahata Hai Fort".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Actually, there is nothing much to see on the fort. Runined fortification surrounds a flat land. However, the view this place provides is breath-taking. It would be even fruitful if you visit in the evenings; however the time mentioned here was upto 5:30 pm. In that case sun-set might be missed.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_uV9yjq6vUY/Wj4gfPxo5_I/AAAAAAAAWPY/k7S5pOJc4OcLNhIfbHhK4_NBSGJYTEh0wCKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20171103_09_41_40_Pro_LI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_uV9yjq6vUY/Wj4gfPxo5_I/AAAAAAAAWPY/k7S5pOJc4OcLNhIfbHhK4_NBSGJYTEh0wCKgBGAs/s400/WP_20171103_09_41_40_Pro_LI.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We spent some time here taking pictures and enjoying the view. Then we retreated to our apartment for final check-out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started off by 11 am approx. for Tarkarli. This time we took the right route directly reaching between Pernem & Banda on NH-17. We continued till ahead of Chouke; from here there is a left turn to Malvan.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once in Malvan, we had a good Malvani lunch with Sol-kadhi. We reached Visava Resort at Tarkarli by 4.30 pm.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idTdG-vH2Do/Wj4giqNc34I/AAAAAAAAWPc/PLJVvmPrBZAgDcWDDu93zGLrRJAvtE5AwCKgBGAs/s1600/collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idTdG-vH2Do/Wj4giqNc34I/AAAAAAAAWPc/PLJVvmPrBZAgDcWDDu93zGLrRJAvtE5AwCKgBGAs/s400/collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Malvani Lunch</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a cup of tea we were on the beach to enjoy the sun-set. Beach is near to Visava Resort; seems to be a sort of private beach.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86G6zeClSfQ/Wj4gsrURDfI/AAAAAAAAWPg/8dKKphApBYAVjkX5cqiarcCPeKv3gQJgwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86G6zeClSfQ/Wj4gsrURDfI/AAAAAAAAWPg/8dKKphApBYAVjkX5cqiarcCPeKv3gQJgwCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0092.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Sun-set on Tarkarli Beach</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The view on the beach was surreal - with Sun setting in west while Moon rising from east. It was Tripuri Pornima that day. The Moon was looking fascinating.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BbdWnt5niSd/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">चाँद "खिला" बादल में ... #bikeridetogoa #moonrisephotography</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kaustubhaa/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@kaustubhaa) on <time datetime="2017-11-14T02:23:16+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 13, 2017 at 6:23pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peWtC9wTa1g/Wj4g2lMIG2I/AAAAAAAAWPo/75yCHLrczSgHRxd8PgBJGWdELTiRaw0PQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peWtC9wTa1g/Wj4g2lMIG2I/AAAAAAAAWPo/75yCHLrczSgHRxd8PgBJGWdELTiRaw0PQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0304.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">Route: </i></span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Vagator (Goa)</i><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">-Banda-Kudal-Dhamapur-Chouke-Malvan-Tarkarli</i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">November 4, 2017:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">Morning we started off for Scuba Diving. Tarkarli coast is famous for Scuba Diving; one of the few locations in India. Others are in Goa, Andaman, Lakshadweep, Pondicherry, Karnataka.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xAJJkL0iDrI/Wj4hFXrK5aI/AAAAAAAAWPw/qO-1QbyOqBkUaF8pZ9BiBf0v6CqJsOhTgCKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20171104_09_29_09_Pro_LI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xAJJkL0iDrI/Wj4hFXrK5aI/AAAAAAAAWPw/qO-1QbyOqBkUaF8pZ9BiBf0v6CqJsOhTgCKgBGAs/s400/WP_20171104_09_29_09_Pro_LI.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Fishermen sorting their catch in the nets planted overnight</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">Scuba Diving here, is done near the coastline of Sindhudurga Fort. They take through boats to the location. These can be available from Malvan or nowadays, they offer pick-up from some hotels & resorts also. We got one such pick-up from out hotel beach.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x-O6H6tPpAo/Wj4g_AHfzVI/AAAAAAAAWPs/cmVwgqnyKM4xaW7VzMvECNopnPUFy5j7QCKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20171104_10_16_22_Pro_LI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x-O6H6tPpAo/Wj4g_AHfzVI/AAAAAAAAWPs/cmVwgqnyKM4xaW7VzMvECNopnPUFy5j7QCKgBGAs/s400/WP_20171104_10_16_22_Pro_LI.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">About half an sailing and we were at the Sindhudurga. One-by-one, people go inside water after wearing all the related kit - weights, jacket & breathing apparatus. A trainer explains the working and gives a trial. Then he takes you down below. At Tarkarli, they take you about 8-10 feet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">Once inside, the environment is phenomenal. It seems as if a whole new world has opened-up. It feels very peaceful. The scene from the film "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" appears in front you; and the dialogue which the Heroine says, "Tumhari zindagi badalne wali hai".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sunlight crossing through the vast expanse of blue water and colorful corals below of different shapes & sizes; colorful fish coming in between - it seemed as if live Nat Geo experience.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We returned to our hotels, got freshen-up and had lunch. By 3 pm we left Tarkarli for our return journey. We had planned a night halt at Kolhapur (about 160 kms via Gaganbavda). </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After some Cashew shopping, we made a move.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In between, we took a wrong turn before Kankavli and went on Phonda Ghat route instead of Gaganbawda Ghat. And the road ahead was pathetic. It reminded us our Ladakh ride :-) ... its a joke... But the road was bad, it started getting dark, it seemed as if there was forest around, traffic was minimal and the cimate was getting chilly. And over it, one of our riders octopus rope broke; hence we had to drive slowly & carefully. Finally, with all such hurdles, we reached Kolhapur by 9 pm.<br /><br /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">Route: </i></span></span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Tarkarli-</i><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Chouke-Kasal-Phonda Ghat-Radhanagari-Kolhapur</i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">November 5, 2017:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 16.8667px;">Today again it was a relaxed day. Our final ride back home. But not before Darshan of Ambabai (Mahalaxmi of Kolhapur).</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzea0cpB-h-jJkp7JXzPmmH_ZLAIuaYiBxY8-mGs3q7Bj8smRmRlExYYEzbY10_wgkHK4LcQFC_f6Y_cDt8fi0-9QeviV5HP6SYcBQRMlxxeIfl1B11zWBmhrf57EsosCwlzItwAsd1Jz0/s1600/WP_20171105_08_55_54_Pro_LI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzea0cpB-h-jJkp7JXzPmmH_ZLAIuaYiBxY8-mGs3q7Bj8smRmRlExYYEzbY10_wgkHK4LcQFC_f6Y_cDt8fi0-9QeviV5HP6SYcBQRMlxxeIfl1B11zWBmhrf57EsosCwlzItwAsd1Jz0/s400/WP_20171105_08_55_54_Pro_LI.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">In the morning we went at the temple followed by the Kolhapur Misal-pav.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CAtpmMhvdbc/Wj5FdlUceUI/AAAAAAAAWQI/fAobD-uVymEWtta05Q_KRpSw76_lrwSMACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171105_093847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CAtpmMhvdbc/Wj5FdlUceUI/AAAAAAAAWQI/fAobD-uVymEWtta05Q_KRpSw76_lrwSMACKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20171105_093847.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Phadtare Misal, Udyamnagar, Kolhapur</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Now started our return journey. By 4 in the evening, we reached home covering a total riding distance of 1019 kms.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5goU-iAIBws/Wj5IRRMaQsI/AAAAAAAAWQk/jzODhF8dDyE87VGwKILcUTOvo_BECSU3ACKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20171105_20_06_36_Pro_LI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5goU-iAIBws/Wj5IRRMaQsI/AAAAAAAAWQk/jzODhF8dDyE87VGwKILcUTOvo_BECSU3ACKgBGAs/s320/WP_20171105_20_06_36_Pro_LI.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com1Goa, India15.2993265 74.12399600000003414.319374499999999 72.833102500000038 16.2792785 75.414889500000029tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-18284735233951173522017-07-14T22:34:00.000+05:302018-10-01T20:35:18.575+05:30The Italian Job - February 2017<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">अबकि बार, सरहद पार</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">… one of my friends posted this on social media when he flew out of
India for first time. Same applies for this blog too… our first foreign post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Visiting
Europe for the first foreign trip was in a way awesome. And visiting Italy was
a distinctive destination. This was an incentive foreign tour, fully expenses
paid by my company.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Europe is
famous for its natural beauty – lush green pastures, snow clad peaks in the
background & twirling roads along. Italy is an odd-man-out. While
rest-of-Europe has Natural Splendor, Italy has Man-made Wonders. Italy can so
be called the Heritage Land of Europe – it alone has 51 World Heritage Sites,
maximum in any one country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Italy, or
Italia, erstwhile Roman Empire, was the Oldest Republic, the Largest Empire
with 2500 years of history, also famous for being birthplace of Renaissance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">February 7, 2017:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We started
from Pune by a Cab for Mumbai Airport drop. We had our Emirates flight from
Mumbai to Venice (layover at Dubai). We reached airport by 10 am. Our group
from all over India had started to gather there. After basic formalities, we
started for our boarding procedure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">February 8, 2017:</span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Our flight
was schedule for 4 am. We reached Dubai. We had about 3 hours of layover time.
We explored the Duty Free Shopping area just to have a feel, what can be
purchased during our return journey (we had similar layover while returning).
Dubai is a large airport. We had to walk, catch metro to reach terminal &
finally board a 5 mins. bus ride to get up the plane.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We reached
Venice (Venezia in Italian) at 1.30 pm local time (5 pm India time). After
immigration formalities, we boarded our tour bus & headed for lunch at a
local Indian restaurant. Food was awesome. We just loved it. Having such good
local food in a faraway land was splendid experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">As soon we
landed, we got a taste of discipline through which these people follow. We were
crossing the road, a little sloppily, when a van stopped at good 2 meters
distance. No horn, no inching forward, the driver patiently waited till our
large group passed by. We witnessed such discipline all along our journey
through next week. I didn’t hear a single horn blow. Vehicles followed lane
system. When stopped behind each other, distance between two was almost so that
in India, a bike-walla will ghusao his bike in-between. Even though Cars were
very properly parked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The Venice
city seemed to have no people staying here. There was no rush on the streets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">By 3.45 pm
we reached our hotel. It was just for a quick freshen-up, as we had to move by
4.45 pm to reach Venice Islands (Lagoons).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Venice
consists of two parts – the famous Islands & the Mainland (called Mestre’
here). We at present were in Mestre’. The airport, our hotel, all the roads
& by lanes are in Mestre’. Island is about 15 mins drive from here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We boarded
our bus for a drive to Tronchetto, the island at the west of Venice. It is used
as a car park, the last driving point; beyond which vehicles are not allowed.
The pier (jetty) here has Vaporetto (Water Bus, Water Taxi) which are used to
commute within various Venetian Islands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We got into
one for our ride to Piazza San Marco, the principle public square in Venice. We
started for our evening stroll to Venice Islands, the most Romantic Place in
Europe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5S45_s5x75Bkk7oJj_7lGavycGNhhYy48kMbSPfA6zczIV6VncEzx5cIb_4_233XtpM4Wpgg6avBWef4xKfgm3emvFBhSpbdqUocZd1n5X-fCOXUcyxWpOjY3sPnQbt2z3SOdQFpReXTW/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5S45_s5x75Bkk7oJj_7lGavycGNhhYy48kMbSPfA6zczIV6VncEzx5cIb_4_233XtpM4Wpgg6avBWef4xKfgm3emvFBhSpbdqUocZd1n5X-fCOXUcyxWpOjY3sPnQbt2z3SOdQFpReXTW/s400/DSC_0016.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Venice, by
far, is the City of Love & Romance. Decorated with stunning Renaissance
architecture, Gondola rides, narrow canals, magical floating buildings, it’s a
city one is bound to fall in love with. Venice used to be the Summer Capital for
the Kings of the region owing to its cool climate due to its proximity to the
Alps (just 300 kms).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">It was
constructed sometime in 4<sup>th</sup> Century. The locals, to get away from
barbarians’ attacks, came here searching for shelter. They came across 100s of
marshy islands. However settlement on these was impossible. Large no. of wooden
planks, logs were pierced within the marshes. Over this support, tons of stone
boulders, concrete, sand, etc were dumped. And then platforms were built. Over
these platforms, buildings were constructed. As the name given, it really is
the Floating City. There are such 117 islands, forming narrow canals in
between, interconnected with bridges.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-79jtObv01wM/WWZQmZFx69I/AAAAAAAAV9U/hpOEm_TnzMAwxByaV0ZeonZqBS5o8Z5RgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-79jtObv01wM/WWZQmZFx69I/AAAAAAAAV9U/hpOEm_TnzMAwxByaV0ZeonZqBS5o8Z5RgCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0010.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Venetian canals</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_w099l_SEU/WWZQqbmoqLI/AAAAAAAAV9Y/Zs7HU6cZnkIHpe1k4kku957kmtU5g7YCACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_w099l_SEU/WWZQqbmoqLI/AAAAAAAAV9Y/Zs7HU6cZnkIHpe1k4kku957kmtU5g7YCACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0014.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">It is a
wonder that it is still intact for the past 1300 years. However, they say,
Venice is sinking 2 mm every year; thanks to global warming.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The
vaporetto ride was chilling. It was just 6 pm, however it had started getting
dark. We were witnessing the illuminated floating islands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We got down
at Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square). Thi</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">s is dedicated to St. Mark’s
Basilica. It houses the relics of Mark the Evangelist. Saint Mark travelled to
Alexandria (now in Egypt) in AD 49 for spreading Christianity. He is said to
have founded Church of Alexandria & is honored to have founded Christianity
in Africa. Then in 828, Venetian Merchants stole his relics from Alexandria. Alexandria
was ruled by Islamic Caliphate. To avoid any search by the guards, these
merchants covered the relics in a layer of pork. Pork being haram for Muslims,
the guards avoided to inspect the ship closely.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Adjacent
& connected to Baslica is the Doge’s Palace. Doge used to be leader of
Republic of Venice. Doges were elected for life & were shrewdest elders of
the city.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Just behind
the Palace along other island separated by canal is a Prison. There’s a bridge
that connects the Palace & the Prison. It is called Bridge of Sighs. The
legend says that accused after their interrogation & trial in front of Doge,
if convicted, were taken to the Prisons from this bridge. It has windows with
stone bars. This gave the convicts one last view of the beautiful Venice (one
last view of freedom). Following this they would be taken to the cells for life
& may be executed. The name of the bridge comes from suggestion that
prisoners would sigh at their final view of Venice (Freedom). It was from this
prison, the legendry lover Casanova made his famous escape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Piazza San
Marco comprises of all these buildings with a large open square & a Bell
Tower. This is the prime attraction of Venice. Napolean once called this as the
“Finest Drawing Room in Europe”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We had a
ride in Gondola, traditional rowing boats of Venice. These boats are the medium
of transportation here for centuries. Vehicles are not allowed in the Islands.
Either walk or use these Gondolas. Even essential services like Ambulance &
Police use boats. We had our “Do Lafzon Ki Kahani” moment – an hour long boat
ride into the canals of Venice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">After our
boat ride, we had a walk along the Venetian bylanes. In the chilling climate,
the market was glittering with colorful light. Name a fashion brand & it
had its shops in these lanes. Milan, fashion capital of the World, is in Italy;
and its influence is seen in other Italian cities. Fashion Brands included
clothes, accessories (bags & purses).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_maSj_p_FA0/WWZQa-pXmQI/AAAAAAAAV9M/t_GIcfXj15MNnHQrZA8tr77AnKL5vcNLQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_maSj_p_FA0/WWZQa-pXmQI/AAAAAAAAV9M/t_GIcfXj15MNnHQrZA8tr77AnKL5vcNLQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0027.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Me1VRzq1phTIDNzN1xz6d3TXc-gVsUaRNRyXbow4OapthWVUdZcxnoHJLk5E2ZJRPoiyLCCAFsrWGtrGWimstg6UVSwB_Vt7GGoWXQ_Rn1GjVIFNpVjh2S9Bjve1t0Rv2-qA0khGIgEA/s1600/DSC_0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Me1VRzq1phTIDNzN1xz6d3TXc-gVsUaRNRyXbow4OapthWVUdZcxnoHJLk5E2ZJRPoiyLCCAFsrWGtrGWimstg6UVSwB_Vt7GGoWXQ_Rn1GjVIFNpVjh2S9Bjve1t0Rv2-qA0khGIgEA/s400/DSC_0028.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Due to our
packed schedule, we had to miss the day tour to Venice. Normally, whatever we
visited so far has to be seen in the day. Even the monuments were closed – St.
Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace. However, roaming in glittering Venetian bylanes
in the night is not witnessed by many. Normally, people visit in touring season
of summers when sun sets as late as 11 pm. And the beauty of Floating Islands
by the night is generally missed by them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">By 8-8.30,
we started to get back to Mestre. Had Dinner again in Indian Restaurant at 10
& retired to bed (after almost 30 hours).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">February 9, 2017:</span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Morning
after breakfast, we again boarded our coaches. The same route to Tronchetto and
again by Vaporetto, this time to Murano & Burano Islands. The water route
was again same till St. Marks Square; we just passed ahead towards Murano. All
the buildings which were seen sparkling in night yesterday were now visible
with different perspective. And that was awesome.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tWKX5IMTgB0/WWZQylnaByI/AAAAAAAAV9c/1tWlD832bUcFf5VR-CFZcDkyxn4CNPUWQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tWKX5IMTgB0/WWZQylnaByI/AAAAAAAAV9c/1tWlD832bUcFf5VR-CFZcDkyxn4CNPUWQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0052.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLzNa8qOc82HYWmxv2E7lyZOac0l6sNSyvyO_KHgxuwbiPk5aogAuxSMnq7mhKt4o8Cpd728KOTwZeOkH6TC9j4-Ds0KAgyKt8Lg_0i3viRPJXsWJP7-HS9jiexF_1yCNf6-171ZSKy0y/s1600/DSC_0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLzNa8qOc82HYWmxv2E7lyZOac0l6sNSyvyO_KHgxuwbiPk5aogAuxSMnq7mhKt4o8Cpd728KOTwZeOkH6TC9j4-Ds0KAgyKt8Lg_0i3viRPJXsWJP7-HS9jiexF_1yCNf6-171ZSKy0y/s400/DSC_0061.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>St. Marks Square (Bell Tower), Doge's Palace, Prison <br />and Bridge of Sighs in between<br />(view from Grand Canal)</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YCZ4OrEXAhw/WWjcXXjQZvI/AAAAAAAAV_g/-mh5yZlSxroYzDn1ri8jjY6TpFHGudIsACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YCZ4OrEXAhw/WWjcXXjQZvI/AAAAAAAAV_g/-mh5yZlSxroYzDn1ri8jjY6TpFHGudIsACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0062.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Vaporetto ride to Murano</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a 1.5
hours ride, we reached Murano at 10.30 am. Murano Islands are similar to
Venetian Islands, however smaller in size. These are a group of 7 islands.
Murano is famous for its glass making factories. Venetian Glass is famous world
over for centuries. It is made by a unique technique of Glass Blowing. Glass
makers were treated as prominent & respected citizens for centuries, with
secret of Glass Blowing confined within Venice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Today,
Murano has many Glass Blowing Factories with a showroom attached to it. We went
to one such factory. The Glass Master, as they honor him, showed us a 10 min.
demo on Glass Blowing Technique. It is a sheer hand-crafting; and too at
temperatures of about 2500 deg C. Following this we went through their shop;
purchased a few items & boarded back to our further journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Burano is
still smaller with pack of 4 islands. It is further half an hour journey from
Murano. It can be identified with its leaning Bell Tower seen from distance.
There are many buildings in Venetian Lagoon which are tilting (or have even
fallen down tilting) – Pisa is not the only place with a Leaning Tower. This is
due to the history of construction of Venice over marshy islands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ar09RsQsAIo/WWjcq8RMQMI/AAAAAAAAV_k/I0qSOXMtLO8No4xA5LXVV6HcOkm3NNqHwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ar09RsQsAIo/WWjcq8RMQMI/AAAAAAAAV_k/I0qSOXMtLO8No4xA5LXVV6HcOkm3NNqHwCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0104.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Leaning Bell Tower of Burano</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Burano is
famous for its brightly colorful houses. The location is a treat for artists –
painters, photographers. The residents here have to take permission from
administration to paint their houses; they just cannot paint the color of their
choice. Burano is also famous for its Lace-making Industry. The market there
sells these Laced dresses.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wHJzWVQfuzs/WWjc0nZeisI/AAAAAAAAV_o/YUZiABjk-eQkmPprG_-i5Hp3zF7dvAeTgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wHJzWVQfuzs/WWjc0nZeisI/AAAAAAAAV_o/YUZiABjk-eQkmPprG_-i5Hp3zF7dvAeTgCKgBGAs/s320/DSC_0117.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wdEy_Mx3fKg/WWjc0qiiVdI/AAAAAAAAV_o/J1I9mNQIW2YMLPHoDPABVNYHLxRtSEADACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wdEy_Mx3fKg/WWjc0qiiVdI/AAAAAAAAV_o/J1I9mNQIW2YMLPHoDPABVNYHLxRtSEADACKgBGAs/s320/DSC_0120.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EsivFrChT-c/WWjc0hJV9iI/AAAAAAAAV_o/mn3xILSPVIg6nvs-HJIpxSiLNdmnNKuoQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EsivFrChT-c/WWjc0hJV9iI/AAAAAAAAV_o/mn3xILSPVIg6nvs-HJIpxSiLNdmnNKuoQCKgBGAs/s320/DSC_0128.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qI1IXVnV4MU/WWjc0j_b_wI/AAAAAAAAV_o/5dKFw8Sr5O0XMC8xocvUckoWFH90WOjDgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qI1IXVnV4MU/WWjc0j_b_wI/AAAAAAAAV_o/5dKFw8Sr5O0XMC8xocvUckoWFH90WOjDgCKgBGAs/s320/DSC_0131.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">After half
an hour troll in Burano, we started for our return journey to Mestre. This
time, we had an Italian Lunch – Pasta & Pizza. By 4 pm, we bid farewell to
Venice & started for Florence. On the way we had a stop at Pisa, to witness
one of the Wonders of World – Leaning Tower of Pisa (my second after <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2016/02/cars-bikes-taj-february-2016.html" target="_blank">TheBeautiful Taj Mahal</a>).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The drive
along the European highway was awesome. The large freeway passed through
Adriatic Plains further crossing to Apennine mountains along Brenta river past
Bologna to reach Pisa. While watching the large expanse of plain land
initially, we had a sleepy drive ahead. We crossed Bologna on the way. It is
known for home to famous Italian Automakers Ducati, Maserati & Lamborghini.
University of Bologna is the oldest in Europe (11<sup>th</sup> century).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Our actual
plan was to reach Pisa by 4 pm; however, since our delay at Venice, we reached
by 7.30. Here also, we reached in the dark. It was unfortunate that we missed
this beautiful wonder in its fullest grandeur by the day. However, it was
unique that we saw it by the dark, unlike others.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Pisa is a
city in Tuscany region of central Italy. It is a birthplace of Galileo &
most famous for its Leaning Tower.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vjsmweQnJSA/WWjdBEz1cPI/AAAAAAAAV_s/fKMyCliN3p4bK1Cu94pp4Dr-vcT--B_qACKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20170209_20_09_13_Pro_LI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vjsmweQnJSA/WWjdBEz1cPI/AAAAAAAAV_s/fKMyCliN3p4bK1Cu94pp4Dr-vcT--B_qACKgBGAs/s400/WP_20170209_20_09_13_Pro_LI.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We
disembarked at the parking. From here the Leaning Tower is about a km away. One
may walk or there is a short Toy Train ride till the main gate. We took the
latter. We reached the main entrance, what is called as Field of Miracles
(Piazza dei Miracoli). It is a group of buildings & structures comprising
of a Cathedral, Baptistry, Clock Tower (Campanile) & a Cemetery. The Clock
Tower is the reason we & maximum of tourists visit this place. It is
renowned as the Leaning Tower of Pisa.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Tower is an
8 storey structure with 55 meters in height. The leaning started during the
construction itself while 3<sup>rd</sup> floor was completed. This was due to lose
sand below (too soft ground in its foundation). The construction began in 1173
& was completed in 1319 (146 years later) with construction stopped in
between for about 90 years due to Pisans engagement in wars & battles. It
is said that this gap in construction helped in strengthening the foundation.
Weight correction was done once construction resumed as the Tower had started
to tilt. Top floor (Bell Chamber) is constructed in such a way with one side is
taller that other; this is clearly visible. This gives it a curved shape.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">During 1990
to 2001, major repair work was carried out – structural strengthening and
surface restoration. The lean was corrected and it said that the life of Tower
is increased by another 1000 years. Earlier lean was 5.5 degrees, now corrected
to 3.99 degrees.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Tower can
be climbed up from inside. There are about 294 steps. Earlier, entry was
unrestricted. Nowadays after restoration, entry is done for a batch of 20
tourists for 20 minutes during the day. Online bookings are required. Since we
reached late, we missed this.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LFVE6boVRVo/WWjdP7y7j8I/AAAAAAAAV_0/DL-TDU_eIC8TtnXN_gBnasAtevPxlHDuACKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20170209_20_11_02_Panorama_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="1600" height="193" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LFVE6boVRVo/WWjdP7y7j8I/AAAAAAAAV_0/DL-TDU_eIC8TtnXN_gBnasAtevPxlHDuACKgBGAs/s400/WP_20170209_20_11_02_Panorama_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Apart from
the Tower, Cathedral & Baptistry are worth a watch. It is said that the
Baptistry is also tilting, again due to its loose foundation. Because of time
constraint, we had to wrap the visit & could not roam around peacefully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We had our
dinner at an Indian restaurant. Apart from Punjabi buffet it also had Pizza
& a glass of Wine (Red as well as White), typical Italian Menu. After
dinner, we proceeded to Florence, capital of Tuscany.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">February 10, 2017:</span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Tuscany region
in central Italy is famous for its art & sculpture. World renowned artists,
Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, are from Tuscany. Its capital, Florence, is
regarded as birthplace of Renaissance.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Morning
after breakfast, we started off to explore Florence (Firenze in Italian), a
city of artistic masterpieces. It is believed to have the largest concentration
of Renaissance art & architecture in the world. It is so nicknamed as “art
palace of Italy”.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hMPPTjCB51s/WWjknzkYIyI/AAAAAAAAWAc/cAl5Hnp-0sUNIPb0iaQqNpvvGeiaa6q2QCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hMPPTjCB51s/WWjknzkYIyI/AAAAAAAAWAc/cAl5Hnp-0sUNIPb0iaQqNpvvGeiaa6q2QCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0175.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RSfd0Cn50Ks/WWjkn50Mb7I/AAAAAAAAWAc/LM_qMnv-NHYOQ-aUVeUTV-YrKweZvThGgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RSfd0Cn50Ks/WWjkn50Mb7I/AAAAAAAAWAc/LM_qMnv-NHYOQ-aUVeUTV-YrKweZvThGgCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0177.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Florentine bylanes</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our bus
dropped us to a central place & we started our walk. The lanes &
streets of Firenze depict artistic essence all the way. It houses masterpieces
by many artists in its numerous museums (there are 80 museums in Florence).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We started
our tour from Academia Gallery, museum famous for housing one of the most
famous sculptures in the world – David, by Michelangelo. The sculpture is so
real in human anatomy & facial expressions that makes it a breathtaking
masterpiece.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rV-c09y9fYk/WWjeJU6N0tI/AAAAAAAAWAA/l4TqsyPNXuUm5mAhgiB-3d7Dcq6wZO9IwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rV-c09y9fYk/WWjeJU6N0tI/AAAAAAAAWAA/l4TqsyPNXuUm5mAhgiB-3d7Dcq6wZO9IwCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0149.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Michelangelo's "David"</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The
sculpture depicts biblical scene of battle between David & Goliath. David
was a young shepherd (future Israeli King) who accepts challenge to fight
Goliath, Philistine warrior. David with his sling & 5 stones without even
armor faces heavily armed & powerful Goliath. David flings a stone from his
sling which hits Goliath on centre of forehead making him fall on ground. David
severs his head.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">In his
sculpture David is tense, clearly showing fear in his eyes as well as worry
through his twisted eyebrows. However, still the viewer gets a feeling of faith
looking at him. His stance is such that he is relaxed, yet alert, holding his
slingshot in such a way that it is almost invisible. The statue stands with its
full weight on one leg while other leg taken forward for taking a shot. The
bark of dead tree behind one of his legs was provided to give the statue some
stability.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The
sculpture took 3 years to make between 1501 to 1504. Michelangelo was only 26
years of age then. Originally, to be placed over the eastern side roof of
Florence Cathedral, instead it was placed in a public square, Palazzo della
Signoria, on September 8, 1504. Since at that time Florence was an independent
republic, David was installed with his face towards Rome (a rival state) with
his warning glare. Finally in 1873, David was moved inside Academia; a replica
was kept in its place which is still present. There are many such replicas
placed around the city placed over the time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Apart from
the natural elements, David was harmed by manual attacks too. Political
protesters threw stones at it, it was damaged during an anti-Medici uprising and
a mentally challenged person attacked it with a hammer (damaging its toe).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Apart from David,
Academia displays numerous sculptures & paintings from various artists.
However, due to paucity of time, we spent majority of our time at David &
just quickly glanced through others.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycJIXXgLJ_uPWLGZIApPW7nnevZJnCirN5lwtXoiX9hod5EqpsSTmGbs5Skh2hKQXv3e9SjTm_5pzm9_4_R1NT4cWgwFNZqM43NOtNTWih7023IeesJN0UgFnpAdyhFW3SuaI9SSIaq-7/s1600/DSC_0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycJIXXgLJ_uPWLGZIApPW7nnevZJnCirN5lwtXoiX9hod5EqpsSTmGbs5Skh2hKQXv3e9SjTm_5pzm9_4_R1NT4cWgwFNZqM43NOtNTWih7023IeesJN0UgFnpAdyhFW3SuaI9SSIaq-7/s320/DSC_0152.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e8TAYTKHhTA/WWjjitkof2I/AAAAAAAAWAI/qcoM0ANrHlwLJWX9KoY4_qjHUHJQxS02gCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e8TAYTKHhTA/WWjjitkof2I/AAAAAAAAWAI/qcoM0ANrHlwLJWX9KoY4_qjHUHJQxS02gCKgBGAs/s320/DSC_0151.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Michelangelo's unfinished sculptures</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Further, we
walked to the topmost attraction of Florence, The Duomo (Florence Cathedral).
It is one of the largest churches in the world with its dome being the largest
so far until modern era; it still is the largest brick dome ever constructed.
The octagonal dome is the main attraction of this Duomo. It is by the eastern
side of this dome was the original place for placing the statue of David.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuFaVNq05So/WWjjxs41wlI/AAAAAAAAWAM/7Erx9HNyS08lZuTMzrkgzKI0m1WFMH1CwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuFaVNq05So/WWjjxs41wlI/AAAAAAAAWAM/7Erx9HNyS08lZuTMzrkgzKI0m1WFMH1CwCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0171.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The
Cathedral Complex consisting of the Basilica, Baptistry & Clock Tower is
located in Piazza del Duomo. The structure is huge. It is adorned with white
& green marble designs, sculptures & paintings depicting various
instances from Bible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/EZyieG1pxlQ/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EZyieG1pxlQ?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The
Baptistry adorns what Michelangelo called “The Gates of Paradise” on its
eastern entry (facing the Duomo). These are a pair of massive gilded bronze
doors which guarded the Baptistry until 1990. These were severely damaged due
to natural elements and pollution, and hence were taken into restoration. What
we see at present is the copy of these doors. The original are preserved in one
of the museums here (Museo dell’Opera del Duomo).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Created by
Lorenzo Ghiberti, these took 27 years to complete (also 27 years to restore
later). The doors depict scenes of 10 stories from New Testament.</span></div>
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</div>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We walked
towards another attraction of Florence, Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace). It is the
City’s town hall with a large public square, Piazza della Signoria. This is
where David was installed originally. Apart from the replica of David, there
are many sculptures mounted here. The Piazza also houses an open air sculpture
gallery.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uNLe7KSzBAk/WWjkOha8ooI/AAAAAAAAWAY/YCDz2jm_KcsktaUEGMvcOSWjJ7DBhXGJgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uNLe7KSzBAk/WWjkOha8ooI/AAAAAAAAWAY/YCDz2jm_KcsktaUEGMvcOSWjJ7DBhXGJgCKgBGAs/s320/DSC_0183.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signora</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPWkPvKbJfScczLvLl2f9u-uhPIpupj6P0d5rs7YYAqZM2ILn0FD7mu6vvtWkGThUA4UaLMZJmjQiObO8SMUGbg7TcDJOOKqo6y_B6wzuNBIajj8kI4vFNpSaGfdMtq0rom2eF1YuUvF1/s1600/DSC_0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPWkPvKbJfScczLvLl2f9u-uhPIpupj6P0d5rs7YYAqZM2ILn0FD7mu6vvtWkGThUA4UaLMZJmjQiObO8SMUGbg7TcDJOOKqo6y_B6wzuNBIajj8kI4vFNpSaGfdMtq0rom2eF1YuUvF1/s320/DSC_0184.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pfCB556WNS98cgiYQJSMalS9xc2zYy_t8JMjyfkxB1OWwDjRv5afGKTzMnlJEdGVZBBZWIi-4ZoWP4TxyP_rlemEzh8Dny5M6iC6OsmHA31P7Upmk4Ja-wQPO1GZRWbGRpEU0eftJ3Mj/s1600/DSC_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pfCB556WNS98cgiYQJSMalS9xc2zYy_t8JMjyfkxB1OWwDjRv5afGKTzMnlJEdGVZBBZWIi-4ZoWP4TxyP_rlemEzh8Dny5M6iC6OsmHA31P7Upmk4Ja-wQPO1GZRWbGRpEU0eftJ3Mj/s320/DSC_0188.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Ahead we
passed through short bylanes of Florence towards Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge). It
was the only bridge in Florence till 1218. It is made of stone over the river
Arno. There is a bust of Benvenuto Cellini, great Florentine sculptor. Many
padlocks are seen on this bridge, mainly on the railing of this bust. Lovers
fix these locks & throw its key into the river, thinking that it makes them
eternally bonded. However, this is banned by the administration attracting a heavy
penalty (in Euros).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJoMAqRcyDM/WWjlE94oMfI/AAAAAAAAWAg/gPtt_zwAv0EWz3r03v6qyzyg52c9OdXQACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJoMAqRcyDM/WWjlE94oMfI/AAAAAAAAWAg/gPtt_zwAv0EWz3r03v6qyzyg52c9OdXQACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0193.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Arched walkway near Ponte Vecchio</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxr_rvU-E6WRjLzC_AyUfnFDypMyID58qpdsz1lZj5wLC1uAs3xV3TMBlGkdjKONxgLPf2vrsiK40HvkdeaGBmus_vzvRjz468hX4wqxL0_xZTpKLhopd9MQMK5jMR3bUbLrP9AOtxb2M/s1600/DSC_0198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxr_rvU-E6WRjLzC_AyUfnFDypMyID58qpdsz1lZj5wLC1uAs3xV3TMBlGkdjKONxgLPf2vrsiK40HvkdeaGBmus_vzvRjz468hX4wqxL0_xZTpKLhopd9MQMK5jMR3bUbLrP9AOtxb2M/s400/DSC_0198.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Love Padlocks</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here
we walked towards the Railway Station. We had a Bullet Train to catch to Rome.
Again walking through the Florentine lanes, we reached the station by 11 am. We
had our train at 11.30 am. Our buses had already moved ahead to Rome in the
morning itself carrying our luggage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">This was my
first ride in the Bullet Train. It was different experience. The train covers
about 270 kms in 1.5 hours. The max. speed it reached was 250 kmph. Normally,
one doesn’t feel the speed inside; however at max speed, I felt like having ear
blocks (like in flight).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The train
cruised through the green meadows & beautiful scenes & reached Rome by
1 pm. Coming outside, our buses were waiting for us. We moved for lunch in an
Indian restaurant. On the way, we passed through the iconic Colosseum, identity
of Rome. It is huge & looks beautiful from outside. Tomorrow, we were going
to have a look inside it. Post lunch, we started for Vatican City.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Vatican
City is a country located within a city. It is a smallest country of the world
– area of 110 acres & population of about 800. It is said to be the richest
country per square foot. Home to Catholicism, it is the world’s holiest sites
among Catholics. It is the spiritual centre of world’s Catholics. It is also
world’s most powerful country because of its diplomatic & cultural
influence. The Holy See, which held sovereignty of Vatican City, has diplomatic
relations with almost all countries of the world.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The Pope
(Bishop of Rome) is the Head of Vatican City & ex-officio leader of
Catholic Church. He is believed to be successor to Saint Peter, one of the 12
Apostles of Jesus & the first Pope. Apart from spreading Christianity,
Popes act in resolution of disputes, building interfaith dialogues, charitable
works & defending human rights.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Vatican
City has many religious & cultural sites including many gardens. The
Vatican actually means Garden (see Vaatika in Sanskrit also). There are three
major attractions to see here – St. Peter’s Basilica (with St. Peter’s Square),
Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums. There is a guided tour of 1.5 hours which
covers these three. To visit here, make sure you cover your shoulders and
knees. This is applicable to men, women & children.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mgKiGFWIb-Q/WWj4cBbDfJI/AAAAAAAAWB4/1Zuxs7TkW-Epo2YmtzSwQDXRNk9oiPMGQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0209_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mgKiGFWIb-Q/WWj4cBbDfJI/AAAAAAAAWB4/1Zuxs7TkW-Epo2YmtzSwQDXRNk9oiPMGQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0209_1.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Dome of St. Peter's Basilica - viewed from Museum terrace</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started
from the Museums. Immense collections by various Popes over the centuries are
on display here. Number of Sculptures and Paintings by various artists are on
display. We could see some of them being cleaned & renovated by the workers
here; this would also be a massive work. It is said that the Museums have 70,000
artifacts out of which 20,000 are no display.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-whomDiqFYvc/WWjd0KQr0QI/AAAAAAAAV_4/qNoc2Mcl35cMwRHZ2kjuO4ocSSFZHCV5QCKgBGAs/s1600/collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-whomDiqFYvc/WWjd0KQr0QI/AAAAAAAAV_4/qNoc2Mcl35cMwRHZ2kjuO4ocSSFZHCV5QCKgBGAs/s640/collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Artifacts
are lined on the walls as well as on ceilings with beautiful lightings. We
passed through each room adoring these. One room was dedicated to maps, mostly
of Italy and around. It is the world’s largest geographical study. There are
paintings depicting Biblical stories & stories of Christianity made on
cloth. The frescoes are too beautiful. They are so made that they seem very
real; indeed give a 3D effect.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l3SxG89ekQ8/WWjd942um2I/AAAAAAAAV_8/5313FIgrHd8APSBfn-QMi9lwMfKDP87zgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l3SxG89ekQ8/WWjd942um2I/AAAAAAAAV_8/5313FIgrHd8APSBfn-QMi9lwMfKDP87zgCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0219.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRdRNu3ES_E/WWjd978wl0I/AAAAAAAAV_8/iLG1LCLIRksOjIgUGCRtXLDLzLgFCnFeQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRdRNu3ES_E/WWjd978wl0I/AAAAAAAAV_8/iLG1LCLIRksOjIgUGCRtXLDLzLgFCnFeQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0220.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The Museums
end into Sistine Chapel. After shuffling down walkways of Vatican Museums past
statues, frescoes, crossing a long corridor & a stair, one reaches the
entry to one of the creative explosions; greatest work of art in history, the
Sistine Chapel.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Sistine
Chapel is the part of official residence of Pope. Also, a site of Papal
Conclave, a process of electing new Pope happens here. It is named after Pope
Sixtus IV. However, it is famous for its art by famous artists. It actually is
a Paint-House.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Tapestry (painted
curtains) by Raphael on the walls seem so real, with its pleats. One level
above, adorn the Biblical scenes on the life of Moses & Jesus. A level
above are the paintings of 32 Popes. Beyond this, are the paintings which form
the Ceiling of Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The Ceiling
was painted by Michelangelo between 1508 to 1512 under patronage by Pope Julius
II. The paintings constitute scenes from Book of Genesis (1<sup>st</sup> Book
of Bible), twelve Prophetic figures, Ancestors of Christ. Creation of Adam is
one such iconic painting with its “hands of Adam & God” being reproduced in
many imitations.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The wall
behind the Altar depicts a large fresco with colorful paintings on blue
background. It is the famous painting of The Last Judgment, again by Michelangelo.
It was painted between 1536 and 1541 under commissioning by Pope Clement VII
& Pope Paul III. The painting is huge, all over the wall with 391 figures
& each one is unique. The painting is all about souls of humans who rise
& descend to their fates as judged by Christ. There is The God in the
centre with all figures surrounding Him. Michelangelo’s Revenge is one such
painting famous for its story.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The
paintings all over create a 3-D effect inside. Photography is prohibited. Even
it is not allowed to talk loudly; the guards do interrupt in case you do so.
But once inside, you agree that this place needs that silence to just look
around peacefully and marinate all the art that is available around onto your
mind. The place is a heaven for artists & historians. It is said that about
5 million people visit here every year to witness the art-fair which is on
display since 5 centuries.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Out of
Sistine Chapel, we moved towards one of the greatest attractions of Vatican,
the place for which Vatican is known & famous for – St. Peter’s Basilica.
It is the largest, the richest & by far the spectacular church in the whole
world. It is said to have been constructed over the tomb of St. Peter. The High
Altar inside the Church is built right above where St. Peter is buried.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Previously
there used to be a Byzantine church built by Constantine (Emperor of Rome) in
349 AD. Over the years it fell apart & construction of Basilica started in
15<sup>th</sup> century & finished in 1626 (lasted for more than 100
years). The highlight of the Basilica (which now has become the identity of
Vatican), the Dome is designed by Michelangelo; however, he was not alive when
it got completed.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The inside
of Basilica is huge & deep. High Altar is at the far end, with large Nave
to walk towards, flanked by large decorated Columns & Arches on both sides;
there are aisles on extreme both sides. The aisles have number of chapels lined
up. There are about 100 tombs within the Basilica which includes those of 91
Popes & few others like a Roman Emperor Otto II and a Swedish Queen who
converted to Catholicism to name a few.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucIz8pnYwA_EbEgTyrM_Tp-IQiGeixekGMW6UUv_kr1t6v9Xsf6w_pZjzuVNcYRjdBetuMqKKo4P-myC-mVqNCJu4jQ08vJNwr5wAZo7t_9MTBdk25_1Z-C3Gc3Fe4BuQzLH_sd2BBuD3/s1600/DSC_0228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucIz8pnYwA_EbEgTyrM_Tp-IQiGeixekGMW6UUv_kr1t6v9Xsf6w_pZjzuVNcYRjdBetuMqKKo4P-myC-mVqNCJu4jQ08vJNwr5wAZo7t_9MTBdk25_1Z-C3Gc3Fe4BuQzLH_sd2BBuD3/s400/DSC_0228.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">After the
entry, towards immediate right is another attraction of this place –
Michelangelo’s Pieta. Pieta is the subject in Christianity depicting Virgin
Mary cradling dead body of Jesus Christ. This sculpture by Michelangelo is
unusual as he sculpted a very young & beautiful Mary for a mother of 33
year old son. The emotion of grief is clearly identified on her face & the
flowing garments over her body seem so real. Completed between 1498 to 99, this
is the only artwork by Michelangelo, which he has ever signed. Today the
sculpture is protected by a bullet-proof glass panel.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59Ao2ycJci7aYIbSf2zrNrKrBBB7riKnDqRV4W38ejM0l6jMtgm9Ay3XZmyPobpcUPD4cxpSwWbjzu9x7XwZ63gM4UxJ262IGncbS-N5kYVLIOgLMM5-Ugw1OQ7hvo_YUQPnjKhAHCU1l/s1600/DSC_0229_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1205" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59Ao2ycJci7aYIbSf2zrNrKrBBB7riKnDqRV4W38ejM0l6jMtgm9Ay3XZmyPobpcUPD4cxpSwWbjzu9x7XwZ63gM4UxJ262IGncbS-N5kYVLIOgLMM5-Ugw1OQ7hvo_YUQPnjKhAHCU1l/s400/DSC_0229_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Michelangelo's "Pieta"</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Another
main attraction is the design at the High Altar. With huge Dome above, a 4-pillared
bronze frame designed by Bernini catches the eye. It is exactly above the
burial place of St. Peter’s, serving a holy place. It is said to be largest
bronze structure in world & is made by melting the bronze from the ceiling
of Pantheon (temple in Rome).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HzoyP9rn70U/WWjlmuwFFMI/AAAAAAAAWAs/n12Pr0wmwwsaVJyFEdNeIX7SBovRKylKACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HzoyP9rn70U/WWjlmuwFFMI/AAAAAAAAWAs/n12Pr0wmwwsaVJyFEdNeIX7SBovRKylKACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0232.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>High Altar</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once
outside, what you see in front is the magnificent St. Peter’s Square (Piazza
San Pietro). The Square was designed by Lorenzo Bernini. It was laid out
between 1656 to 67. There are two sets of colonnades on either side in circular
form; it is symbolic in such a way that the Church is opening its arms to
welcome you. It has 284 columns with statues of 140 saints over it. At the
centre is the Obelisk (Egyptian column) erected by Emperor Caligula. The Square
was designed by Bernini around it more than 100 years later. Almost every
important square in Rome has an Obelisk; all brought from Egypt by various
Roman Emperors. There are two Fountains between the Obelisk & either
colonnade. And the astounding part is both these Fountains are designed by
different artists at different times. Carlo Maderno designed one Fountain.
Bernini matched another Fountain on other side of Obelisk & designed his
embracing colonnade accordingly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q-6Kk9XOIiI/WWjmIsO9dzI/AAAAAAAAWA0/czGAPddfPWsmpgKYBNC_Ebs3wdFs42MvACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q-6Kk9XOIiI/WWjmIsO9dzI/AAAAAAAAWA0/czGAPddfPWsmpgKYBNC_Ebs3wdFs42MvACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0227.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">St. Peter's Square (as seen from the Basilica)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhliWBsQ-Ig/WWjmIg7PxoI/AAAAAAAAWA0/4bEKHhsLmc8pEKVdBgp7Qp9V-44s34KJACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhliWBsQ-Ig/WWjmIg7PxoI/AAAAAAAAWA0/4bEKHhsLmc8pEKVdBgp7Qp9V-44s34KJACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0240.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">St. Peter's Basilica, Bernini's fountain in foreground</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nuON2IKXVGg/WWjmIom4QbI/AAAAAAAAWA0/tnUUskeujJwf4KDGFG9hbc6xJtjUuooLACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nuON2IKXVGg/WWjmIom4QbI/AAAAAAAAWA0/tnUUskeujJwf4KDGFG9hbc6xJtjUuooLACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0242.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Carlo Maderno designed the façade of the Basilica<br />Over its top are lined </span></i><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">13 statues - 11 Apostles, Christ & John, the Baptist<br />Dome is designed by Michelangelo</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was
the end of our Vatican Tour. Whole experience was as if going inside a Dan
Brown book. After a shopping spree at the souvenir shop, we marched for an
Italian Buffet Dinner. It was an experience; with names of dishes in Italian,
hotel staff not knowing English, no identification of Veg & Non-veg (by the
way Red & Green Dots are only seen in India; here food is food, there is
nothing like veg & non-veg). Me, being a vegetarian, had tough time to
choose & identify. Finally, I had to settle with desserts & ice creams.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1HBZbRS4n4/WWjp3eCtZLI/AAAAAAAAWA4/rBCfo2TjR_kpiT25DGh6S4G3ViuxLlOKQCKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20170210_18_05_04_Panorama_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="574" data-original-width="1600" height="141" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1HBZbRS4n4/WWjp3eCtZLI/AAAAAAAAWA4/rBCfo2TjR_kpiT25DGh6S4G3ViuxLlOKQCKgBGAs/s400/WP_20170210_18_05_04_Panorama_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Panorama - St. Peter's Basilica, Square & its embracing colonnades</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">February 11, 2017:</span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Today we
were to experience the Power City of the world; the oldest Republic & the
centre of the Empire which once ruled the whole world, well almost. In Rome,
they say, the past is always present. The City is full of historical sites
which give an idea to its visitor, about the Empire that was. The Roman Empire
was among the most powerful economic, cultural, political and military forces
in the world of its time. It was one of the largest empires in World history.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"> There goes a saying “All roads lead to Rome”; and it was literally so with its
boundaries surrounding Mediterranean Sea, constituting today’s Britain, Spain,
Italy, Greece, parts of Africa & Asia upto the Middle East. It was said
that about 21% of world’s population then, were Romans.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4J5XgviiiN8/WXDDw--qoII/AAAAAAAAWDo/sfkLluX-El47H2Ji6ufxMmG1wdP-cMHrACKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20170210_15_38_41_Pro_LI_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4J5XgviiiN8/WXDDw--qoII/AAAAAAAAWDo/sfkLluX-El47H2Ji6ufxMmG1wdP-cMHrACKgBGAs/s400/WP_20170210_15_38_41_Pro_LI_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Castle of the Holy Angel - along the banks of River Tiber</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rome was
founded sometime in 773 BC. Twin baby brothers, Romulus & Remus, were
thought as a possible threat to his rule by their uncle Amulius. He had earlier
displaced his brother, King Numitor, now ordered his guard to kill the twins.
However, the guard didn’t have fortitude to kill the babies and hence he just
left them to die in the forest on the banks of Tiber River. However, the babies
survived. A She-wolf took care of them and nursed them till a herdsman found
them. A She-wolf nursing a pair of human babies is a well known sculpture in
Rome, since it is associated with its history of foundation.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Once
adults, they decided to build a City of their own. However, they had a dispute
in selecting the location. They argued & in turn Romulus killed Remus. He
went on to build the City that he named it as Rome after himself.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Rome grew
slowly & steadily. It was the largest city of the world between the period
100 BC to 400 AD. It was witness to the world events that changed the course of
history – it became world’s first Republic in 509 BC, Julius Caesar was
assassinated in 44 BC (end of Republic era), followed by establishment of Roman
Empire by Augustus, rise of Christianity in 1<sup>st</sup> century AD, Fall of
Western Roman Empire in 5<sup>th</sup> century, followed by Middle Ages
(Medieval Period) of 1000 years, Establishment of Papal States in 7<sup>th</sup>
century AD, start of Renaissance with building of St. Peter’s Basilica in 14<sup>th</sup>
century AD and then Unification of Italy in 1870 AD.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Post
breakfast, we moved for the show of Time Elevator. It is a 4D-multisensory
technique which takes you back 3000 years in history of Roman Empire. It was
nice half an hour experience going back in time & witnessing the events as
they unfold.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BngVvvTH7qF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Power City of the World, Oldest Republic, Centre of Empire which once ruled the World, Birthplace of Renaissance. It is said to be one of the oldest inhabited places in the World. In Rome, they say, Past is always Present. City is full of historical sites which tell us about the Empire that was. There is a saying, "All Roads Lead to Rome". And it was literary so, with Roman boundaries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, leading up-to Africa & Asia. Rome they say, was not built in a day & it can't be seen in one either. Rome is a city best severed slowly like a glass of wine 🍷. #itsmytravelogue #romanholiday #pastisalwayspresent #allroadsleadtorome #renaissance #renaissanceart #birthplaceofrenaissance #romewasnotbuiltinaday #roaminginrome #oldestrepublic #instalogues #theitalianjob http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.com/2017/07/the-italian-job-february-2017.html?m=1</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-09-09T12:26:20+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 9, 2018 at 5:26am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Then we
started with our “Roaming around in Rome” – sight-seeing. Nearby was Monument
dedicated to Victor Emmanuel II, first King of united Italy (1861). It is
largest monument in Rome. It appears gigantic, with wide stairs, large array of
columns at the top, two symmetric statues of Goddess Victoria on each side.
There is an equestrian sculpture of the King Emmanuel at the centre. Also
present here is Tomb of Unknown Soldier built under statue of Goddess Roma. An
eternal flame also burns by its side.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I1o6r6z5hD8/WWjsZoJRs6I/AAAAAAAAWA8/-jtJc2k91k0flp_g3yGev_cc72fKxs_lQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I1o6r6z5hD8/WWjsZoJRs6I/AAAAAAAAWA8/-jtJc2k91k0flp_g3yGev_cc72fKxs_lQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0253.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The
monument overlooks a large square, Piazza Venezia. It once served as an Embassy
of Republic of Venice. Hence the name. Italian dictator Mussoloni used to
deliver speed from Palazzo Venezia (Palace of St. Mark – used later as Venetian
Embassy).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RdPPKlXZ4O0/WWjs1nac4-I/AAAAAAAAWBE/2-N-CalDOWUyL0BXksASMWbrd3uX9WCAgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RdPPKlXZ4O0/WWjs1nac4-I/AAAAAAAAWBE/2-N-CalDOWUyL0BXksASMWbrd3uX9WCAgCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0254.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Piazza Venezia</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhhJDAB6nqo/WWjs1uoGQVI/AAAAAAAAWBE/WfjFgjVykoAcZGwcshF86t618EqQpg-tgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhhJDAB6nqo/WWjs1uoGQVI/AAAAAAAAWBE/WfjFgjVykoAcZGwcshF86t618EqQpg-tgCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0255.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ancient buildings Piazza Venezia, Trajan's Column on right</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Piazza
Venezia also has another distinctive architecture, Trajan’s Column. It was
built by Emperor Trajan. It is a victory column which has the sculptures
showing the events from war between Romans & Dacians. It is said that the
column served like a newspaper – all events happening at the war were carved on
the column run-time, which helped the citizens to understand war news.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirX-JY9c0e0VX9V0LWq7zAM47qf-d6XreZu-_0n4HxgmX6m2oBr6iY5qos33ZlCwT4G7NU2KJGnEX-Fl_niRUeFn-Vau1_ZJRyM8wrfYOCoV-EhnDTcEO-RA-fW7XhyphenhyphenYgAIw7PxSfpVRCK/s1600/DSC_0267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirX-JY9c0e0VX9V0LWq7zAM47qf-d6XreZu-_0n4HxgmX6m2oBr6iY5qos33ZlCwT4G7NU2KJGnEX-Fl_niRUeFn-Vau1_ZJRyM8wrfYOCoV-EhnDTcEO-RA-fW7XhyphenhyphenYgAIw7PxSfpVRCK/s400/DSC_0267.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Trajan's Column</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc9tDU6JsuyIuT8xajzH3tMFSe7uoLEmaB9h76jPRjdpq3UPu3ACXN57UnZ6Y5szMDYowOBNrCXxOV_fRR9feKri41SAn12IEss9Veg6i5CtKeLcI7cMxE5iXQSlBkyM2BXFfzQtHBFSyw/s1600/DSC_0270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc9tDU6JsuyIuT8xajzH3tMFSe7uoLEmaB9h76jPRjdpq3UPu3ACXN57UnZ6Y5szMDYowOBNrCXxOV_fRR9feKri41SAn12IEss9Veg6i5CtKeLcI7cMxE5iXQSlBkyM2BXFfzQtHBFSyw/s400/DSC_0270.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Trajan's Column, with </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Monument of Victor Emmanuel II in background</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Post lunch
we visited the Colosseum, another Wonder of World. This was our 2</span><sup style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">nd</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
in a single trip. Colosseum is an amphitheatre & was used for gladiatorial
contests watched by Romans as a part of public entertainment. It was built by
Emperor Vespasian, with its construction started in 72 AD & completed in 80
AD. It still is the largest amphitheater ever built. It is oval in shape &
with seating capacity of about 45,000. The number was much less than the total
population of London which was just a village at that time.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SzVhwzDSR48/WWjuSwHJcRI/AAAAAAAAWBQ/OwQ-xMEvTJsBqJAgquIIIuYzxK6DV9lHwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SzVhwzDSR48/WWjuSwHJcRI/AAAAAAAAWBQ/OwQ-xMEvTJsBqJAgquIIIuYzxK6DV9lHwCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0279.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Gladiators who
contested with each other or with wild animals were the slaves captured by
Romans from faraway lands. It was their destiny to fight & live, until one
is killed by another. Romans used to pay to watch these fights / games.
Gladiators were spilling blood in the name of entertainment for centuries. But
people of Rome were eager for bigger & bolder exhibition. Colosseum became
their permanent & state-of-the art killing field. Colosseum also displayed
naval battles. It had a mechanism to fill-in & drain-out bottom floors with
water from aqueducts of Rome. Colosseum was in use for such spectacle till 6<sup>th</sup>
century.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Below the
main platform used to be the Hypogeum or under-stage (like a back-stage in case
of Plays & Dramas). This was the place where Gladiators awaited for their
turn to go up the platform for a fight. Wild animals were caged here. Prisoners
who were to be executed also awaited their turn. The place had mechanized lifts
& trap doors to enable the fighters & animals to suddenly appear on the
battle arena.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8psGayeGshM/WWjuY_d7nuI/AAAAAAAAWBU/zD_8nmgNqcAslDjVvWQBbDlT1i6YuXgyACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8psGayeGshM/WWjuY_d7nuI/AAAAAAAAWBU/zD_8nmgNqcAslDjVvWQBbDlT1i6YuXgyACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0287.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The entry
to the Colosseum used to be from many Arches at the ground floor. These arches
were numbered in Roman script (seen even today) and like today’s stadiums,
patrons could only enter inside with a ticket having numbers printed on them. Going
through the arches, there is intricate network of corridors & staircases
which take you to the relevant floor for watching the games. There were 140 drinking
water fountains & 2 restrooms. There used to be a mechanism of retractable
roof using curtains, wooden poles & ropes. The curtains could slide towards
inner side as per the position of Sun providing required shade for the viewers.
Mounting holes can be seen from outside surrounding the outer walls at the top.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eoqe8X5N-D0/WXDBPoStjDI/AAAAAAAAWDY/IRNKWfRbYbcmUVlX5p6wgi2SgtXvHXThACKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20170211_15_40_26_Panorama_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1600" height="170" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eoqe8X5N-D0/WXDBPoStjDI/AAAAAAAAWDY/IRNKWfRbYbcmUVlX5p6wgi2SgtXvHXThACKgBGAs/s400/WP_20170211_15_40_26_Panorama_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">There are
remains of structure outside the Colosseum on the other side of the present
road. It is believed to be the remains of the local shops selling food &
goods items during the games.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Once
inside, the seat arrangements can be seen encircling the central arena. At the
centre once used to be a sand covered platform. Today what we see are the
remains of Hypogeum.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Hollywood
movie “Gladiator” have shown Colosseum in its actual use.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Its usage
as a fight arena stopped after 6<sup>th</sup> century. It was severely damaged
during a massive earthquake in 13<sup>th</sup> century. The damage to its outer
wall can be still seen today. The stones which stumbled were used to construct
other buildings in Rome elsewhere. Construction of Colosseum was such that stones
& marble was fixed using bronze clamps over concrete & sand. Over the
time, these stones & marble were stripped down & were used elsewhere.
The bronze clamps were hacked out of the walls by robbers causing numerous scars
to the building.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WATshwmCQdY/WWjurTgnR3I/AAAAAAAAWBY/gknW3qxyag8RLk8XDOxEQC9IvXYgkys7ACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WATshwmCQdY/WWjurTgnR3I/AAAAAAAAWBY/gknW3qxyag8RLk8XDOxEQC9IvXYgkys7ACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0282.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">By the side
of Colosseum, is the Arch of Constantine. It is a triumphal arch constructed to
honor the victory of Emperor Constantine I in the year 315 AD.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9kaX7XIz8BU/WWj5UuY1k2I/AAAAAAAAWCA/exc8CpyIaRQjHT6hmcYmGNqJ0HfnJlnvwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9kaX7XIz8BU/WWj5UuY1k2I/AAAAAAAAWCA/exc8CpyIaRQjHT6hmcYmGNqJ0HfnJlnvwCKgBGAs/s320/DSC_0291.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">There is
one more archeological site near Colosseum, which was at one point the centre
of Roman public life – Roman Forum (or just Forum). It is located between
Palatine & Capitoline Hills. It was site where victory marches took place,
public speeches & criminal trials happened. This is the place where people
met & discuss; this is the reason why the online discussion places today
are called Forum.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_q6IuZkwEe0/WWjuwfgUBhI/AAAAAAAAWBc/LKlErfZzqNcopDcZ5N9EbiuVmGrY7kW-gCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_q6IuZkwEe0/WWjuwfgUBhI/AAAAAAAAWBc/LKlErfZzqNcopDcZ5N9EbiuVmGrY7kW-gCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0274.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Roman Forum</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is a
vast rectangular expanse excavated over time, located in middle of today’s modern
Rome. The structures included places where the Senate met, Judicial buildings.
There are remains of multiple Temples (of Saturn & Vesta) and Arches. Julius
Caesar was burnt here (Temple of Caesar). Majority of buildings were demolished
in 410 AD during sacking of Rome. Over the years, during Middle Ages, The Forum
collapsed & got buried under earth & debris. It was only in 19</span><sup style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
century, the excavation started.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">From here
we boarded our bus towards Circus Maximus, big brother to Colosseum. Prior to
Colosseum becoming the venue for entertainment for Romans, Circus Maximus was
the place for Chariot Races. It is shown extensively in Hollywood blockbuster,
Ben Hur.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Situated
between Palatine & Aventine Hills, it was said to accommodate 250,000
people – a quarter of Rome’s population at that time. It was built much before
Colosseum in 6<sup>th</sup> century BC.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpC5kKSx0Ig/WXDB_KD-cDI/AAAAAAAAWDg/RepCvPYIjMsjnFYfdo_ymJNtsbFDDyJjwCKgBGAs/s1600/WP_20170211_16_40_36_Panorama_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="1600" height="156" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpC5kKSx0Ig/WXDB_KD-cDI/AAAAAAAAWDg/RepCvPYIjMsjnFYfdo_ymJNtsbFDDyJjwCKgBGAs/s400/WP_20170211_16_40_36_Panorama_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Circus Maximus<br />Ruins
of Imperial Palaces on Palatine Hill in background</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This ended
our discovery of Rome for today. We had a Gala Dinner lined-up, being our last
night in Italy.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">February 12, 2017:</span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Today was
our Day-2 for Roman Exploration. We got down from our bus near a place called
Spanish Steps. These were built by French in Italian city of Rome; truly
Globalization. These are called so because of Embassy of Spain located nearby.
And so that square at the bottom of Spanish Steps is called as Piazza di
Spagna. The area is also known for great English poet John Keats, who lived
here.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qaaeuNCoUCA/WWjvMoIZc6I/AAAAAAAAWBg/jks8ox_1iogm9yME1FQsWKJXRncG72f6QCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qaaeuNCoUCA/WWjvMoIZc6I/AAAAAAAAWBg/jks8ox_1iogm9yME1FQsWKJXRncG72f6QCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0301.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Here we
came across the first fountain of Rome, Fontana della Barcaccia (Fountain of
Ugly Boat). This is a 16<sup>th</sup> century fountain designed by Bernini.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Rome is
famous for its number of Fountains; almost every major piazza in Rome embellishes
a fountain. Water for these fountains comes from several Aqueducts. Romans
constructed these to bring water from distant sources into cities & towns
through gravity. Some among these are the source of pure drinking water even
today. Even after so many centuries, the water is still flowing from these
adorning the beauty of the fountains.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UkmRIqN8oDY/WWjvTdwl3DI/AAAAAAAAWBk/8ECWX2dmVzUU4jvsw6pNwViNEk-HOACOQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UkmRIqN8oDY/WWjvTdwl3DI/AAAAAAAAWBk/8ECWX2dmVzUU4jvsw6pNwViNEk-HOACOQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0302.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We walked
towards another beauty of Rome – it seemed for me as one of the most beautiful
places in Rome – Trevi Fountain. It is a giant fountain with extravagant façade
located at junction of three roads (hence the name). It was constructed in 17<sup>th</sup>
century, designed by Nicola Salvi. It represents a scene from story of Romans
locating a source of pure water to ancient Rome. For me, it is the most
beautiful place I saw in Rome.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsMm4NqxOMw/WWjvYFSCOSI/AAAAAAAAWBo/WjoFoal68WceZtRI_wZ8tRMh6OPoNzWJwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsMm4NqxOMw/WWjvYFSCOSI/AAAAAAAAWBo/WjoFoal68WceZtRI_wZ8tRMh6OPoNzWJwCKgBGAs/s320/DSC_0309.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BnWmbJpHjEY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
</a> <br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BnWmbJpHjEY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">One of the most beautiful places in Rome - Trevi Fountain. It is giant fountain with extravagant facade located at junction of three roads (hence the name). It represents a scene from story of Romans locating a source of pure water to ancient Rome. It became an eminent attraction in Hollywood movie, Three Coins In The Fountain. And in case you miss to explore something, just toss in a coin into this for a guaranteed visit to Roma one more time. #itsmytravelogue #roaminginrome #fontanaditreviroma #abkibaarsarhadpaar #roma #threecoinsinthefountain #theitalianjob #instalogues</a></span></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-09-05T17:39:40+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 5, 2018 at 10:39am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"> <script async="" defer="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>
The
fountain became an eminent attraction in Hollywood movie of 1950s, <i>Three Coins In The Fountain</i>. The movie
had a plot where the three women characters throw coins in to the fountain
waters to fulfill their wish to return to Rome. This movie made this coin
throwing tale as a perpetual ritual for anyone visiting Trevi Fountain. Approx.
3000 Euros are collected in the fountain daily; these go to charity. It is a
crime to steal coins thrown inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/yeFhunG7W0o/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yeFhunG7W0o?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">We walked
towards Pantheon, considered to be oldest temple still in good shape. It is
almost 2000 years old. Formerly a Roman Temple, it was later converted into a
Church in 6<sup>th</sup> century. The present building was built some time in 2<sup>nd</sup>
century AD by Emperor Hadrian. Previously, on the same site, there was a temple
built by Emperor Augustus which was burnt in a fire.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Front
façade with rows of large Corinthian columns and a cylindrical building behind
(rotunda architecture) makes this a unique building; also not to forget a large
dome at the top with an oculus (central opening). The building displays its
ageing which is result of weathering as well as damages by humans (its bronze
fittings were ripped off).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8j8K82CJgEk/WWj4J_m6nGI/AAAAAAAAWBw/DdFIkwhj1Moj7kEWfjq4YLTpFRgd2iUkQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8j8K82CJgEk/WWj4J_m6nGI/AAAAAAAAWBw/DdFIkwhj1Moj7kEWfjq4YLTpFRgd2iUkQCKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0330.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Once inside
through the massive bronze doors, the space opens up in vast circular expanse.
Beautifully decorated dome is with oculus in centre. Altars & Chapels are
lined-up around the circle. Pantheon is a site of burial of important people –
painter Raphael, two kings of Italy Emanuele II & Umberto I.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pbbEDUyjzek/WWj4Prz5qGI/AAAAAAAAWB0/3DOLKafJprowb797B5o6oXEVFbqKuOQXACKgBGAs/s1600/DSC_0331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pbbEDUyjzek/WWj4Prz5qGI/AAAAAAAAWB0/3DOLKafJprowb797B5o6oXEVFbqKuOQXACKgBGAs/s400/DSC_0331.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/w_0ng5GRgU8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/w_0ng5GRgU8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Front of
Pantheon is graced with a fountain & surmounted by an Egyptian obelisk.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Next was
Piazza Navona, one of the important public squares; I felt it to be one of the
most happening places in Rome. It is an elegant square with a lively
marketplace, glitzy fountains and European architectural buildings. Artists
performing live music, doing live paintings (& selling them) adds a sparkle
to the surroundings. Restaurants lined around the perimeter provide an
opportunity to sip a coffee & have Pizza while you enjoy this Piazza.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">The Piazza
is elliptical in shape. This is because it was built on a 1<sup>st</sup>
century AD Stadium of Domitian. It was used for athletic contests & could
occupy 15 to 20,000 people. Piazza Navona with its 3 fountains & church
were made later in 16<sup>th</sup> & 17<sup>th</sup> century.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Central
fountain and a Church behind are the main attractions of Piazza Navona.
Fountain of the Four Rivers designed by Bernini showcases 4 River Gods. They
represent major rivers of 4 known continents of the time – Nile (Africa),
Danube (Europe), Ganga (Asia) & Rio de la Plata (America). It was a moment
of pride to see our Mother River, which we Indians have been worshipping, was
selected by Bernini representing Asia in the 15<sup>th</sup> century. River God
of Rio de la Plata is shown as fearing the façade of Church of Sant'Agnese. The
Church was designed by Barromini, rival of Bernini. Tall Egyptian Obelisk is
mounted on the rock centrally. There are two more fountains at each end –
Fountain of Neptune & Moor Fountain – making this Piazza one of the most
beautiful architectures.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHr5CEgX4H3gJoOzHp2rz472zslMRHvyMXsB_uhac3ScixHqK_hSUXXNQnvkVGLfI-hWZuxem7IYSuC0ZQIn0sbhftu8IlTs05v-HLzJXhtrx4wkOiakAG4uLhttm7IxMUSLGv6XI7jyT/s1600/DSC_0350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHr5CEgX4H3gJoOzHp2rz472zslMRHvyMXsB_uhac3ScixHqK_hSUXXNQnvkVGLfI-hWZuxem7IYSuC0ZQIn0sbhftu8IlTs05v-HLzJXhtrx4wkOiakAG4uLhttm7IxMUSLGv6XI7jyT/s400/DSC_0350.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">River God of Ganga, </i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">with </span>Church of Sant'Agnese in background</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was
our end to the Roman Holiday. Rome has a history of 2500 years, it is said to
be one of the oldest inhabited places. We spent about two full days to roam
around in Rome. Hopefully, we covered important sites, though may not all; and
also spent considerable time in important one’s – Vatican & Colosseum.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Rome, they
say, was not built in a day & it can’t be seen in one either. Rome is a
city best severed slowly like a glass of wine. And in case you miss something
to see, toss a coin into Trevi Fountain for a guaranteed visit to Rome one more
time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif";">Ciao, for
now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Italy41.87194 12.56737999999995729.677718500000005 -8.0869170000000423 54.0661615 33.221676999999957tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-32579338289077452502017-03-30T21:41:00.000+05:302019-08-23T21:08:47.242+05:30Land Of The Royals - Mewar, Rajasthan - November 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">पधारो</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">म्हारे</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">देश</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> - this quote is epitomized with the land of Rajputana, now
Rajasthan. If you wanna experience Royalty, Grandeur, Marvel, this is
the place. Rajasthan is famous for its extravagant colors, veiled
traditions and valor of Rajputs.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 6pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ao42PcA6Yto/WNdwV8NL1MI/AAAAAAAAVos/HrdKrt_XpyMtJGjNEHDI0c6OnFM_KhZHQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ao42PcA6Yto/WNdwV8NL1MI/AAAAAAAAVos/HrdKrt_XpyMtJGjNEHDI0c6OnFM_KhZHQCPcB/s400/DSC_0056.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Rajasthan constitutes of two major regions – Mewad & Marwad.
We planned to visit the Mewad part of it, a non-desert region.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">We reached Jaipur by evening flight. Reaching our hotel,
remaining evening was free. We just roamed around with a plan to explore this
Pink City next day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Jaipur, named after its founder Maharaja</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> Jai
Singh II</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">, is the first Planned City of India. It
was planned based on principles of Vaastu Shaastra. City Design is grid based
with divisions into various blocks. Maharaja wanted to shift his Capital at
Amer to accommodate growing population. Hence the present location of Jaipur
was selected about 10 kms away. The City was founded in 17<sup>th</sup>
century.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Jaipur is called as Pink City of India. However since we
landed here, we didn’t see any Pink. The City was normal like any other city
elsewhere. But, when we started for our sightseeing next day and as we entered the
large Pink Gate, the architecture changed. Buildings were not Pink but
Terra-cota colored. Names on the shops were of same style everywhere (Black
Letters on a White background). All shops, houses, restaurants, lodges, even
some temples were of same color. What we saw was the front facing parts of the
building were Pink (Terra-cota). Buildings at the back within the alleys were
of regular colors & design.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SP_i9fEK3iA/WNdwV6MjIgI/AAAAAAAAVow/7GqbyOcBWhkAajgTL1WmsOzI36iaD0rvACPcB/s1600/collage-2017-03-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SP_i9fEK3iA/WNdwV6MjIgI/AAAAAAAAVow/7GqbyOcBWhkAajgTL1WmsOzI36iaD0rvACPcB/s400/collage-2017-03-26.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">During the rule of Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh, City was
painted Pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in 18<sup>th</sup> century. This
Pink later on got changed to Brownish-Red or the Terra-cota color.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">This is the old Jaipur City. It is covered with a wall from
all sides with 8 large gates. Hence it is also referred to as Walled City.
Outside these walls is the newly developed City, just like any other.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">We started for the city sightseeing next morning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">November 7, 2016:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Amer palace is a place which by far is the best place to
visit in Jaipur. Amer village at the foot of a hillock over which stands the
magnificent walled palace was the original Capital of Kachwaha (Kushwaha)
Dynasty / Clan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j9O0LB4eiuk/WNdwV7CtWhI/AAAAAAAAVok/dfU_g8FKSAk2RORpe87Bi7THGmL7F7yaQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j9O0LB4eiuk/WNdwV7CtWhI/AAAAAAAAVok/dfU_g8FKSAk2RORpe87Bi7THGmL7F7yaQCPcB/s400/DSC_0001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The palace is accessible by vehicles or by elephant ride.
Elephant ride costs around Rs. 1100 for two adults (one elephant). However it
normally has long queue and is time consuming. But the experience of entering
the palace on a royal safari would definitely be an experience of a lifetime.
This ride is available only upto noon. We went by our cab.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3j8HLGg0uH0/WNdwV5JIWdI/AAAAAAAAVos/BidQv1p9W90444mV1bNrGueEUmC-lEhQgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3j8HLGg0uH0/WNdwV5JIWdI/AAAAAAAAVos/BidQv1p9W90444mV1bNrGueEUmC-lEhQgCPcB/s400/DSC_0022.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elephant ride</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The palace is built in four levels – Jalebi Chowk (main
palace grounds), Diwan-e-Aam (Public Audience Hall), Diwan-e-Khaas or
Sheesh-Mahal (private meeting place / chambers for Royals) and the Zenana or
Women’s Quarters (for Royal Ladies & their attendants including mistresses
& concubines).</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4hSswy9pai7MdhLRP5QNuZB-nApOLS1baNR33wQNoZbUA0rBEAgQ4X7_qwZCLTjErwYdPlndiTZHo63W8NGtwgcmpIZcnL44Nvo-rySM2-smSqz_lGC-ONdX52vlXtuOAG5rhfIDFgXS8/s1600/DSC_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4hSswy9pai7MdhLRP5QNuZB-nApOLS1baNR33wQNoZbUA0rBEAgQ4X7_qwZCLTjErwYdPlndiTZHo63W8NGtwgcmpIZcnL44Nvo-rySM2-smSqz_lGC-ONdX52vlXtuOAG5rhfIDFgXS8/s400/DSC_0014.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Jalebi Chowk - with Diwan-e-Aam seen on left above & Ganesh Pol behind</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">As you enter the first gate (Suraj pol), there is the
open area called the Jalebi Chowk. This used to be the place for gathering of
Soldiers & the Armed Forces. Today, elephants reach till this point.
Tickets for the Palace need to be purchased here – Rs. 100 for adults. We also
hired a Guide for Rs. 200.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-we2XQDz9BU8/WNdwV4O5VuI/AAAAAAAAVok/mq2CiE2XYvILeF1YnDGmI-Nnph2YpvkmACPcB/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-we2XQDz9BU8/WNdwV4O5VuI/AAAAAAAAVok/mq2CiE2XYvILeF1YnDGmI-Nnph2YpvkmACPcB/s400/DSC_0017.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jalebi Chowk</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Climbing few steps one can reach second level. It houses
the Diwan-e-Aam. The elevation actually is because of water storage tanks
below. It is based on rain water storage concept. This area was open to general
public. The King used to meet the people in his routine Darbar here.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-Lxg8EURG8bYV5dJPm3zaYkvl8o2nW_V8ryvKHaiqJsly_Wj4wBLeWu5bsdchps_WnoKKwdQwSaIg8B-J70TgvJgPjSCcLMtgiw8VDyJIt9WpjHPWWEBfWnky_7O_A9geVqCAgr32yah/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-Lxg8EURG8bYV5dJPm3zaYkvl8o2nW_V8ryvKHaiqJsly_Wj4wBLeWu5bsdchps_WnoKKwdQwSaIg8B-J70TgvJgPjSCcLMtgiw8VDyJIt9WpjHPWWEBfWnky_7O_A9geVqCAgr32yah/s400/DSC_0027.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Diwan-e-Aam</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By the side of Diwan-e-Aam, there is a Hammaam and
an exquisitely decorated large entrance gate, the Ganesh Pol, named because of
Lord Ganesh painted at its top. This gate is the entry to the private chambers
of the Royals, the third level.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PSQnf7fW6Vw/WNdwV49ttMI/AAAAAAAAVok/tC3nIHnNNzo0LOjwYw83uFkx4DAnh8gjACPcB/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PSQnf7fW6Vw/WNdwV49ttMI/AAAAAAAAVok/tC3nIHnNNzo0LOjwYw83uFkx4DAnh8gjACPcB/s400/DSC_0020.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ganesh Pol</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rWjkrYiipgc/WNdwV1Vk4SI/AAAAAAAAVok/XXWavhoVqZ4_l42Iibo5HPIEOn6joMJlQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rWjkrYiipgc/WNdwV1Vk4SI/AAAAAAAAVok/XXWavhoVqZ4_l42Iibo5HPIEOn6joMJlQCPcB/s400/DSC_0030.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Art-work - Golden color (natural) within Ganesh Pol</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As you pass through Ganesh Pol, a garden welcomes you. It
was built on the lines of Mughal Garden with a fountain in the centre. On the
left is the famous Sheesh-Mahal or Diwan-e-Khaas. It is also known as Jai
Mandir. This is one of the most beautiful & awe-inspiring constructions of
the Palace. It is exquisitely embellished with glass inlaid panels &
multi-mirrored ceilings. Raja Man Singh built & completed it in 1727.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Multiple reflections of a candle light through thousands of
mirrors would have been a sight to savor. Somewhere it is mentioned as
“glittering jewel box in flickering candle light’. Same can be witnessed to
some extent by light a mobile torch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It reminds the Pyar Kiya Toh Darna Kya song from Hindi film
Mughal-e-Aazam. It is wrongly mentioned that it was shot here; actually the
Sheesh-Mahal in that song is an artificial set.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">There is a Sheesh-Mahal in Agra Fort; and a Kaanch Mandir in
Indore. However, this one is far better maintained.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RYKJUiAsi-U/WNdwV1RtpVI/AAAAAAAAVok/5lh8QEsczjwpfYIAPqt_GHDlJ--N84hxgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RYKJUiAsi-U/WNdwV1RtpVI/AAAAAAAAVok/5lh8QEsczjwpfYIAPqt_GHDlJ--N84hxgCPcB/s400/DSC_0032.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Garden in front of Sheesh Mahal</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLgPTyKipeqTGNnOQl2-PJ-k66SRQbIx0fZfSKhYyCX-04s_IfKVSODayK_reWanL_XZzwojcROh4sJWv0WtjsrKy4CDqk9ZzmltlZ6kwbVhgaqQL_ZG1Tgs3O9ltequer-bCw9Yui0Vb/s1600/DSC_0038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLgPTyKipeqTGNnOQl2-PJ-k66SRQbIx0fZfSKhYyCX-04s_IfKVSODayK_reWanL_XZzwojcROh4sJWv0WtjsrKy4CDqk9ZzmltlZ6kwbVhgaqQL_ZG1Tgs3O9ltequer-bCw9Yui0Vb/s400/DSC_0038.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Diwan-e-Khaas (Sheesh Mahal)</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Ka4qshXX_8/WNdwV1ymejI/AAAAAAAAVok/ffRYPV6TjF84GxnHT9wPhZwzjska9j_IACPcB/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Ka4qshXX_8/WNdwV1ymejI/AAAAAAAAVok/ffRYPV6TjF84GxnHT9wPhZwzjska9j_IACPcB/s400/DSC_0034.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mirror / Glass work - inside of Diwan-e-Khaas</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ahead is the Zenana. Way for this part is a small passage
without steps to ascend or descend. It had slope with textured floorings. It is
said that the Royal Ladies, during their marriage, wore studded Royal Dresses
along with splendid gold ornaments. All this weighed about 20-50 kgs. The woman
couldn’t walk wearing so much. So she was brought inside on a wheeled chair or
a Doli.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Raja Man Singh had twelve wives. This part of palace houses
12 quarters, 1 for each wife (3 on each side forming a square) with a separate
bathing & toilet facilities. These chambers had provision for their maids
also. The central square has a pillared pavilion. This was used as a meeting
venue for the ladies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It is said that Queens’ Quarters were interlinked to the
King’s Quarter with secret passages. King visited any of the Queens of his
choice; no one knew to whom the King visited. It is said that King was identified
in a Room where the Beeda (or Paan) is ordered / provided.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyd0WVTFIVBU452MEY2S24LDD0IIzA8Cd5-w7JZRt9SXqK9U2yeuXazKRHK2qUr1OYvmciKmU4KrS5Q_2J3_220x9E3HkvRfU99xld8nwEyF04ro9Yg4dDD-kmX1IWjAJ6scLy4fhNRdu/s1600/DSC_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyd0WVTFIVBU452MEY2S24LDD0IIzA8Cd5-w7JZRt9SXqK9U2yeuXazKRHK2qUr1OYvmciKmU4KrS5Q_2J3_220x9E3HkvRfU99xld8nwEyF04ro9Yg4dDD-kmX1IWjAJ6scLy4fhNRdu/s400/DSC_0041.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pillared Pavillion</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Amer was ruled by Kachwaha’s – they are supposed to be the
descendents of Lord Ram from his son Kush.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The area around present day Amer & Jaipur was known as
Dhundhar in 10<sup>th</sup> century. It was ruled by the Meena clan. Rana
Kankal Dev of Kachawaha Dynasty destroyed sovereignty of Meenas & formed
their Capital here. He also constructed Ambikeshwar Temple. Name Amer is said
to be derived from it. It is also said that Amer is derived from Amba Mata of
Meena clan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O7fHCzuzJn4/WNdwVwoyw_I/AAAAAAAAVok/lzFZzhXcpUEonu7QJ0SpHhUwiMFGpUtPACPcB/s1600/DSC_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O7fHCzuzJn4/WNdwVwoyw_I/AAAAAAAAVok/lzFZzhXcpUEonu7QJ0SpHhUwiMFGpUtPACPcB/s400/DSC_0046.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amer town - below Amer Fort</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As soon Capital was formed, they started constructing
fortified walls. This was the birth of Amer Fort. For the next 700 years Amer
remained capital of Kachwahas. As the time passed and generations changed, Amer
developed & became stronger.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">India witnessed continuous attacks from Persians, Turks,
Mongols, Afghans. Many invaders raided this land in the form of Khiljis,
Tughlaks & Lodhis. But Amer stood by it all protecting its people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The landscape changed in 16<sup>th</sup> century by arrival
of Mughals. In 1526, Mughal Emperor Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodhi at Panipat.
And this marked the beginning of Mughal Empire in Delhi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Rajputs formed a coalition against this new invasion. On 17
March 1527, Rajputs & Babur came face to face. Babur won this battle too
& marked a shadow of Mughals on Rajputana.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Ahead in the history, Kachwahas became the first allies of
Mughals in Rajputana. Raja Bharmal proposed to offer his daughter’s hand
(Princess Jodha) to Emperor Akbar in marriage in 1562.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Bharmal’s grandson Raja Man Singh I became a trusted general
in Akbar’s court. He was instrumental in development of Amer Palace inside the
Fort. His grandson Mirza Raja Jai Singh (Jai Singh I) further developed Amer.
Diwan-e-Aam was built by him making it equivalent to that in Agra Fort.
Maharashtrians know him for his Treaty of Purandar with Chhatrapati Shivaji
Maharaj.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">History changed its course once again. In 17<sup>th</sup>
century, Mughal Empire started to diminish; Marathas had started to flourish.
Sawai Jai Singh II (grandson of Jai Singh I) decided to develop a new place as
Capital for the Kingdom. On 18 November, 1727 foundations of Jaipur were laid.
Jai Singh II was an expert in Science & Astrology. Jaipur is India’s First
Planned City. Jantar Mantar (the oldest observatories) of Delhi, Jaipur,
Banaras, Ujjain & Mathura are the ideologies of Jai Singh II. It would not
be wrong to say that, 300 years ago Jai Singh II scripted a philosophy of
Modern India.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After 600 years, glory of Amer gradually receded to the new
capital, Jaipur. Jaipur went on to become Capital of modern day Rajasthan State
in the Indian Union. Amer still remains strong overlooking the development of
Jaipur into one of the important cities of India.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnMmAY7fz2x2p3-MgvT0KUUfZVRiFCWnIuqGPLW9MgJfWrmZnbOsnnJOgH-LA0Fot5BvOWsA7_MgYiNJYYRBkQ6M4yDKcVEgaW39B_HydY5EsXd1BoN65MK8hGGj2GP4brVrmdjAtEXqHZ/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnMmAY7fz2x2p3-MgvT0KUUfZVRiFCWnIuqGPLW9MgJfWrmZnbOsnnJOgH-LA0Fot5BvOWsA7_MgYiNJYYRBkQ6M4yDKcVEgaW39B_HydY5EsXd1BoN65MK8hGGj2GP4brVrmdjAtEXqHZ/s400/DSC_0009.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jaigad Fort - as seen from Amer Fort</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is Sound & Light Show in the evening which depicts
the full history of the region with fascinating Lighting of the Fort Walls. The
story telling with powerhouse music & song sequences make lasting
impression. There are two shows of 45 mins., first in English & then Hindi.
The show is fully worth of its ticket price of Rs. 250. Only drawback is one
would have to comeback all the way from Jaipur in the evening to watch this
show.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After our Amer Fort in the morning, we went to a National
Handloom Shop. Normally Guides after their tour take you to such shops. This is
a part of their business plan. However, purchasing of items from there is not
compulsory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Our visit here helped us gain some knowledge about the
printing of cloth by natural colors. Most common item they show is the Jaipuri
Rajai. Apart from it, there were other goods like Sarees, Bed-sheets, Baandhani
Dress Material, Items with Precious Stones, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After a short visit here, we returned back to Jaipur for the
visit of City Palace. City Palace is complex of multiple buildings (Palace,
Durbar, Museum). It was built by Sawai Jai Singh II when he shifted their
Capital from Amer to Jaipur.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cK_5jcsEYC4/WNdwV62zFfI/AAAAAAAAVok/OBr8Mc3oIZEBhWJtHCGc5TX8_ktJvwf8gCPcB/s1600/DSC_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cK_5jcsEYC4/WNdwV62zFfI/AAAAAAAAVok/OBr8Mc3oIZEBhWJtHCGc5TX8_ktJvwf8gCPcB/s400/DSC_0054.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">City Palace - Entry</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Entry ticket for adults is Rs. 130 while for Children it is
Rs. 70. There are multiple options for tickets like Gallery Viewing, Night
Viewing, Special Ticket for Chandra Mahal & also a comprehensive ticket for
many monuments. The most common is the 130-70 mentioned above.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">As one enters inside, there is a grand pink walled courtyard
with a central pillared hall. This is Diwan-e-Aam. It has marbled flooring with
crystal chandeliers on the ceiling. There are few arms, guns on display. Two
large silver urns catch the attention. These are called as Ganga-jallee. They
hold a Guinness World Record as world’s largest silver vessels. Maharaja Sawai
Madho Singh II got these made to carry water of River Ganga with him to England
during his visit in 1901 (for King Edward VII’s coronation). He thought it to
be religious sin to consume English water.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BzqWLk7n8lR/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Celebrate selection of #Jaipur as the @UNESCO #WorldHeritageSite . Jaipur, named after its founder Maharaja Jai Singh II, is the first Planned City of India. It's construction plan was based on principles of Vaastu Shaastra. City Design is grid based with divisions into various blocks. The City was founded in 17th century. This #PinkCity of India came into existence during the rule of Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh. The City was painted Pink to welcome Prince of Wales in 18th century. This Pink later got changed to Brownish-Red or the Terra-cota color. The photo is of City Palace, a complex of multiple buildings (Palace, Durbar, Museum). It was built by Sawai Jai Singh II when he shifted the Capital from Amer to Jaipur. As one enters inside, there is a grand pink walled courtyard with a central pillared hall. This is Diwan-e-Aam. It has marbled flooring with crystal chandeliers on the ceiling. #instalogues #itsmytravelogue #IncredibleIndia #PadharoMhareDesh #MyRajasthan @incredibleindia @rajasthan_tourism</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-07-08T15:59:16+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jul 8, 2019 at 8:59am PDT</time></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H4tCllYCY18/WNdwV1HqevI/AAAAAAAAVos/bUPRNQAarVUcJd_3uMSAg_fXzmh_3RZyQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H4tCllYCY18/WNdwV1HqevI/AAAAAAAAVos/bUPRNQAarVUcJd_3uMSAg_fXzmh_3RZyQCPcB/s400/DSC_0060.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Diwan-e-Aam</span></i></td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9M18aCjr0uc/WNf1DYMweKI/AAAAAAAAVsc/gSj-OTknByoNHYIcfaeVgiQljb-V5-_pACPcB/s1600/DSC_0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9M18aCjr0uc/WNf1DYMweKI/AAAAAAAAVsc/gSj-OTknByoNHYIcfaeVgiQljb-V5-_pACPcB/s400/DSC_0092.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fX-KNti-nCA/WNf1DffJI5I/AAAAAAAAVsc/FuuPucIShfwWQgv32VKlWa6zAodxHkeJQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fX-KNti-nCA/WNf1DffJI5I/AAAAAAAAVsc/FuuPucIShfwWQgv32VKlWa6zAodxHkeJQCPcB/s400/DSC_0091.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Through one large marble gate one enters the other side of
this complex which houses Chandra Mahal. It grabs the easy attention being
tallest building of the complex and also not Red in color. There are 3-4
exquisitely carved gates. The one through which we come is the Peacock Gate,
the best amongst all. Royal Family still lives in the part of Chandra Mahal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HhSaHJNtZDM/WNdwV8YpoMI/AAAAAAAAVos/riSEm4thxT0s7O4HGd91BXsN8-vlo63kwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HhSaHJNtZDM/WNdwV8YpoMI/AAAAAAAAVos/riSEm4thxT0s7O4HGd91BXsN8-vlo63kwCPcB/s400/DSC_0085.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chandra Mahal</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qFNDGqodYKI/WNf1Dd539qI/AAAAAAAAVsc/PColxxedRy4HwlaLJupoPh0AuV7fSdJWwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qFNDGqodYKI/WNf1Dd539qI/AAAAAAAAVsc/PColxxedRy4HwlaLJupoPh0AuV7fSdJWwCPcB/s400/DSC_0089.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Peacock Gate</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Coming back to the main courtyard next to visit is the Sabha
Niwas (or Diwan-e-Khaas). It is kept & maintained in the condition as it
used to be in those days of ceremonial assemblies. The flooring has rich
Kashmiri Carpets, ceiling are adorned with chandeliers; the pillars are donned
with the flags showing emblems of erstwhile State of Jaipur. Walls are mounted
with life-size paintings of previous Kings. The hall has a gallery on one side
for Royal Women to view the proceedings without being seen.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Next is a Museum which houses Royal Costumes &
Accessories. It is housed in what is called as Mubarak Mahal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After City Palace, we moved towards Jantar Mantar which is
just outside. It is a complex which houses collection of astronomical
instruments. These were built by Sawai Jai Singh II, who himself had immense
knowledge in astrology.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RiexuKXLMqU/WNf1DfeDrcI/AAAAAAAAVsc/69nM6HDoIVk2GN-FRtEFfX25t8xKs6LdACPcB/s1600/DSC_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RiexuKXLMqU/WNf1DfeDrcI/AAAAAAAAVsc/69nM6HDoIVk2GN-FRtEFfX25t8xKs6LdACPcB/s400/DSC_0099.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jantar Mantar in front, City Palace Tower behind & Nahargadh Fort at far behind</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are about 19 astronomical instruments. It is better to
hire a guide. The charge is Rs. 200. But, this will at least help in
understanding these instruments.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The most famous is the Samrat Yantra, the world’s largest
sundial which measures time at an interval of 2 seconds. The Guides show the
calculation which shows accurate time with backlash of 10 minutes. This
difference is due to compensation for the longitude difference between Jaipur
& Allahabad (longitude reference line for IST). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rQptR454IVc/WNf1DZuHFbI/AAAAAAAAVsc/qyTU7-9EqYUCedCQ5CNnlK4TRH6yV9HXgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rQptR454IVc/WNf1DZuHFbI/AAAAAAAAVsc/qyTU7-9EqYUCedCQ5CNnlK4TRH6yV9HXgCPcB/s400/DSC_0097.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Samrat Yantra, The Sun Dial</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here we returned back to our hotel. On the way we had a
photo-stop at Hawa Mahal, the iconic identity to the city of Jaipur. Hawa
Mahal, meaning Palace of Winds, was constructed for the Royal Ladies to observe
the Street Festivities & in a way take part in them. Also to observe the
everyday life on the Street below. It was constructed in such a way that they
could observe all happenings below while unseen from outside.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XDkmF3rjHhE/WNf1DSt0kEI/AAAAAAAAVtU/RGhfqxfTt2cFN-jBuxpiGrgvjGI3ZpIqACPcB/s1600/DSC_0113_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XDkmF3rjHhE/WNf1DSt0kEI/AAAAAAAAVtU/RGhfqxfTt2cFN-jBuxpiGrgvjGI3ZpIqACPcB/s400/DSC_0113_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It is a 5 storied structure in the form of Lord Krishna’s
Crown. There are about 900 windows, small & large, with intricate
latticework. The lattice helps to maintain the privacy within while allowing
cool air to flow around causing the air-conditioning effect. Hence the name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 by Sawai Pratap Singh (grandson
of Sawai Jai Singh II).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">November 8, 2016:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In the morning we started for Ranthambore National Park, a
Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger of Govt. of India. It is one of the largest
National Parks in North India & is situated about 15 kms from Sawai
Madhopur. Distance between Jaipur & Sawai Madhopur is about 150 kms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">We started at about 9 am. After a breakfast stop, we reached
our hotel in Sawai Madhopur at 12 noon. After Check-in formalities, lunch &
a brief rest, we started for our Jungle Safari at 2 pm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">There are two modes of Safari, by a 20 seater Canter or 6
seater Gypsy. We opted for a Gypsy (cost is Rs. 5000). Normally a Gypsy goes
far in the interiors than a Canter. Also, too many people in a Canter may also
create lot of noise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The wild life sanctuary is about 15 kms from Sawai Madhopur.
Safari is accompanied by a Driver and a Guide. The driver drove us till the
entry gate. A guide was allotted to us here. After basic formalities, we
entered inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PG_E6I05wbM/WNf1DWiXmaI/AAAAAAAAVsc/bkb8FDhzkE0L5ya-Zd9DMe7Yi4OYcWEogCPcB/s1600/DSC_0130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PG_E6I05wbM/WNf1DWiXmaI/AAAAAAAAVsc/bkb8FDhzkE0L5ya-Zd9DMe7Yi4OYcWEogCPcB/s400/DSC_0130.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The Sanctuary is divided zones. We went inside Zone-8. Zone
8 had a Tigress & her two Cubs (Male & Female), the guide explained. I
am not aware how these zones are selected; or whether we can select any
specific zone we want.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The forest here is not that dense (when compared with Jim
Corbett National Park). At least, not in this zone. It is said that chances of
spotting a Tiger here are more; maybe this is the reason.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Immediately, we came across the common members of the Jungle
– herd of Deer, Nilgai and Peahen (unfortunately, no Peacock). A little bit
inside, the Guide was aware that a Tiger had killed a Nilgai in the morning;
and had kept his Kill. He was anticipating that the Tiger might come to eat his
Kill. We were just roaming around the place. He even showed us the Carcass
about 100 meters away (which we could not have identified otherwise).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/2TSlBUItO8U/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2TSlBUItO8U?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Since there were no signs, our Guide decided to move away to
some another area. And the oncoming Gypsy guide informed us that Tiger is
spotted near his Kill.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tV3rXIgxZNo/WNf1DZYCHvI/AAAAAAAAVsc/1Prr2cX8aU8GcUleH1UDYF_cvv6PRLCAwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tV3rXIgxZNo/WNf1DZYCHvI/AAAAAAAAVsc/1Prr2cX8aU8GcUleH1UDYF_cvv6PRLCAwCPcB/s400/DSC_0140.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tailing The Tiger</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The way our driver has U-turned the vehicle & he drove
it on those bumpy roads, we still have Goosebumps even today. This will be
remembered for another reason; I came to know later that my wallet has lost. I
am sure it fell off in the jungle during this rollercoaster.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">And we spotted Him – 18 month old Male Tiger Cub. He wanted
to go to his Kill. But he was taking his own sweet time, giving us a full
opportunity to observe him. He was totally careless about large crowd gathered
around him. He damned nothing & truly showing a spirit of the King of the
Jungle. Initially he rested under a tree, then marched slowly & stopped
again few meters ahead. Then he disappeared from our sight as he moved much
ahead, crossed the road and came towards his kill (and in our view). For next
half an hour, he savored his dinner. Finally, at 5 pm our time came to end and
hence we started off. He was still there.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B0gcs1_nVJW/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">#InternationalTigerDay As PM Modi says "A journey from Ek Tha Tiger to Tiger Zinda Hai". Population of Tigers have increased from 1400 a decade ago to about 3000 now; and this is awesome. #SpotTheTiger in the photo; location: #RanathamborTigerReserve in #Rajasthan #itsmytravelogue #instalogues #IncredibleIndia #PadharoMhareDesh #MyRajasthan #BaghonMeinBaharHai @incredibleindia @rajasthan_tourism</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-07-29T16:15:14+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jul 29, 2019 at 9:15am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was an awesome experience. Trailing a Tiger for about
half an hour, then spotting him & finally watching him for the next whole
one hour. My previous two Safaris didn’t succeed in spotting a Tiger (Jim
Corbett & Periyar). This time we were lucky.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Once the news about Tiger Spotting spread, there were around
10-15 Gypsys in the area. And actually, He just didn’t cared.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It is advisable that one should leave immediately after 5 pm
because later on all the Gypsys start to move out making the environment
heavily dusty.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Two big blows came up. We came to our hotel & I came to
know that I have lost the wallet (cash of about Rs. 3000, Credit Cards &
Driving License). Then we were relaxing and another big blow came-up –
Demonetization by our PM.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">November 9, 2016:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In morning after a quick breakfast, we started off with most
of our cash in 500s & 1000s. We witnessed our share of hardships – problem
at Toll Plazas, Restaurant not accepting 500s & 1000s & also not having
Card facility, a very brief Raasta Roko by truckers in front of Petrol Pump.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Our destination was Udaipur, however on the way we were to visit
the mighty Chittorgarh. It is about 300 kms from Sawai Madhopur.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">There goes a saying in Rajputana - </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">गढो</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">में</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">गढ़</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">चित्तौड</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">, </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">बाकी</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">सब</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">गढ़ाईया </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">(Chittod is the ONLY Fort; everything else are just the
hillocks). Chittorgarh indeed is one of the largest fort in India (some say
even Asia).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Chittorgarh has a magical confluence of Bhakti & Shakti
Movement. It is associated with two of the great human beings in Indian
History. Saint Meerabai who led the Bhakti tradition & Maharana Pratap who
cherished a dream of reconquering Chittorgarh from Akbar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It was initially named Chitrakut after its founder
Chitrangada Mori. In 7<sup>th</sup> century, it came under possession of Bappa
Rawal, founder of Mewar Kingdom. With brief interruptions, the Fort remained in
possession of Mewar Kingdom & was their Capital for next 8 centuries.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The fort is a witness to 3 Jauhars – the ultimate sacrifice.
If Rajputs were attacked by enemy, and there were no chance of survival, the
men-folk used to go ahead with suicide attacks with a motive to cause maximum
damage to the enemy & their women back home committed mass self-immolation
to avoid dishonor at the hands of enemy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In 1303, Rani Padmini (wife of Rawal Ratan Singh) led first
Jauhar of Chittorgarh when Allauddin Khilji led a siege.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">2<sup>nd</sup> Jouhar was led by Rani Karnawati (widow of
Rana Sanga) in 1535 when the kingdom was attacked by Bahadur Shah of Gujarat.
There is a legend that Rani Karnawati had sent a Rakhi to Mughal Emperor
Humayun for assistance. Humayun even responded, but could not reach in time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">3<sup>rd</sup> time again, Chittorgarh had to witness
another unfortunate Jauhar. This time it was when Akbar attacked in 1567.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Chittorgarh is witness to such bravery & sacrifices for
freedom. Amer which did peace treaties with Mughals, Chittorgarh fought till
the last becoming a ruined citadel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Rana Kumbha ascended to the throne in 14<sup>th</sup>
century. Mewar flourished during his reign. He built many forts in the kingdom.
He built Vijay Stambha (Tower of Victory) to commemorate his victory over
combined forces of Malwa & Gujarat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">During 16<sup>th</sup> century, Mughals had started to gain
their entry & establish presence in India. Rana Sanga led a combined Rajput
forces against Babur, but was defeated. His son Rana Udai Singh was taken to
safety at Bundi along with his nursemaid Panna Dai. He was attacked by his
uncle Banbir to gain the throne; Panna Dai sacrificed her own son & saved
the life of heir to the throne. He was coronated as Rana in 1540. During 1567,
when Akbar invaded Chittorgarh, he shifted the Mewar Capital to Udaipur. He
felt the need on account of multiple attacks on Chittorgarh & emergence of
artillery warfare. A more secure place was required as a Capital.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">His son, Maharana Pratap, acceded as the King in 1572. He
devoted his whole life in getting Chittorgarh back to its glory. He fought with
Akbar all through. There was time when all his territories (Udaipur, Chitttod,
Kumbhalgad) were captured by Mughals & he lived hiding within jungles &
mountains; even survived on bread made of wild grass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The might of Chittorgarh can be visible from the road as we
reach nearer to the Chittod town. The Fort is vastly spread; however, not very
high. The mighty fortified walls are clearly visible a artistic tower.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Vehicles can go upto the top. The road passes through 7
gates – Padan Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol, Ganesh Pol, Jodla Pol, Laxman Pol
& Ram Pol (the main gate). However, this was not the main entry route. The
main gate of the Fort is on opposite side – Suraj Pol. This route has steps
till the top.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zDts40qKKyI/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zDts40qKKyI?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Entry ticket is Rs. 15 per adult & Rs. 20 per vehicle.
We also hired a Guide; charges were Rs. 750 (Rs. 500 for a short tour).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After passing through Ram Pol, first site is the Kumbha
Palace. Most of it is in ruins. Ruins of Diwan-e-Aam & Diwan-e-Khaas are
also seen. Most of the area is now converted into a garden.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mIzT-oSunCI/WNf1DWL1G1I/AAAAAAAAVsc/_ARubAB5ytsFURgE8J4NrbhCM2Y39c45gCPcB/s1600/DSC_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mIzT-oSunCI/WNf1DWL1G1I/AAAAAAAAVsc/_ARubAB5ytsFURgE8J4NrbhCM2Y39c45gCPcB/s400/DSC_0175.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Kumbha Palace - now in ruins</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_rNJ0TD5Zgs/WNf1DZmpNTI/AAAAAAAAVsc/wdyJ2LdTpqoQM8cJPON5OuiDrPqK5HUYACPcB/s1600/DSC_0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_rNJ0TD5Zgs/WNf1DZmpNTI/AAAAAAAAVsc/wdyJ2LdTpqoQM8cJPON5OuiDrPqK5HUYACPcB/s400/DSC_0176.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Kumbha-Shyam Temple & Meera Temple</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Ahead from here is the temple complex – Meera Temple & Kumbha-Shyam
Temple. These have exquisite carvings on them. However, these are severely
damaged by several Mughal attackers. Faces of all sculptures are damaged.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Saint Meera-bai used to worship Lord Krishna here. The
famous tale of Meera surviving after drinking poison took place here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Kumbha-Shyam Temple is dedicated to Lord Varah. Both these
temples were built during reign of Rana Kumbha. However, the main idols of both
temples were taken to Udaipur, to safeguard them against constant attacks.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B1greAoHXjE/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Kumbha-Shyam Temple, #Chittorgarh , #Rajasthan . The complex have exquisite carvings on them. However, these are severely damaged by several Mughal attackers. Faces of all sculptures are damaged. #SaintMeerabai used to worship #LordKrishna here. The famous tale of Meera surviving after drinking poison took place here. #KumbhaShyamTemple is dedicated to #LordVarah. Next to this is the temple dedicated to Meerabai. Both these temples were built during reign of #RanaKumbha . However, the main idols of both temples were taken to #Udaipur , to safeguard them against constant attacks. Today we celebrate #Janmashtami , birth of Lord Krishna. #instalogues #IncredibleIndia #MyRajasthan #PadharoMhareDesh @incredibleindia @rajasthan_tourism</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-08-23T14:55:40+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Aug 23, 2019 at 7:55am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Vijay Stambha is one structure which is one of the
identities to Chittorgarh. This 9 storeyed Victory Monument was constructed by
Rana Kumbha to celebrate his victory over Mahmud Khilji led armies of Malwa
& Gujarat. The tower is dumb-bell shaped with narrowing in centre &
spreading out at bottom & top. This type of design is unique for a tower.
It is decorated with thousands of sculptures outside as well as inside.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It is 37 meters tall & can be reached at top through 150
steps; however, at this time entry inside was not allowed due to some
restoration work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The area surrounding Vijay Stambha is where the famous
Jauhar led by Rani Padmini took place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Famous song of Hindi Film “Guide” was shot here – “Aaj Phir
Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn-MWHmndan/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn-MWHmndan/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">गढो में गढ़ चित्तौड, बाकी सब गढ़ाईया (Chittod is the ONLY Fort; others are just hillocks). विजय स्तंभ (Vijay Stambh - Tower of Victory) is the identity of Chittorgarh Fort. This 9 storeyed Victory Monument was constructed by Rana Kumbha to celebrate his victory over Mahmud Khilji led armies of Malwa & Gujarat. The tower is dumb-bell shaped with narrowing in centre & spreading out at bottom & top; this type of design is unique for a tower. It is decorated with thousands of sculptures outside as well as inside. The area surrounding this Tower is the Holy place where Rani Padmini led the 1st Jauhar against attacking Allauddin Khilji. #itsmytravelogue #instalogues #rajputana #aanbaanaurshaan #royalrajasthan #talesofvalour #talesofvalourandsacrifices #talesofvalor #chittorgarh #vijaystambh #ranakumbha #rajasthan</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-09-21T02:41:24+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 20, 2018 at 7:41pm PDT</time></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjeSlWhdtmkPpyExUasckr5ZTwA1lVm12F5FXa_UhhyM7SnqkpE_3uiKSd-in9MQtqNRnbB-h-98Nmix4Jw182W6GjcfW_3x5DdeSqAEYzkoUfUos6Ftk2k5BT25M2vJwQAOa8PRuW_Xf/s1600/DSC_0205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjeSlWhdtmkPpyExUasckr5ZTwA1lVm12F5FXa_UhhyM7SnqkpE_3uiKSd-in9MQtqNRnbB-h-98Nmix4Jw182W6GjcfW_3x5DdeSqAEYzkoUfUos6Ftk2k5BT25M2vJwQAOa8PRuW_Xf/s400/DSC_0205.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s-Gfgnq3RSE/WNf1DYDfy-I/AAAAAAAAVsc/C5SFLI9u2fw_QWle2LJii9GYqLVKIXanQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s-Gfgnq3RSE/WNf1DYDfy-I/AAAAAAAAVsc/C5SFLI9u2fw_QWle2LJii9GYqLVKIXanQCPcB/s400/DSC_0202.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Area by the side of Vijay Stambha where Jauhar took place</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Finally, we reached the most famous highlight of this Fort,
Rani Padmini Palace. The legend has made this place eternal in the history.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JtqJijw0eH0/WNf1DSVAQkI/AAAAAAAAVsc/mTU0a7eezCMg9GFc2SIAc0KVSwwsXMYPwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JtqJijw0eH0/WNf1DSVAQkI/AAAAAAAAVsc/mTU0a7eezCMg9GFc2SIAc0KVSwwsXMYPwCPcB/s400/DSC_0208.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rani Padmini Palace on left; Jal Mahal on right</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Allauddin Khilji was fascinated by the stories of beauty of
Rani Padmini. He attacked Chittorgarh & laid a siege. But when he realized
that it is almost impossible to win Chittorgarh, he sent a message to the King,
Rawal Ratan Singh. He proposed his wish to see the Queen once, since he has
heard of her beauty; after this, he will leave. After much deliberation, Ratan
Singh agreed; but to see the Queen in a reflection. This would fulfill
Allauddin’s wish as well maintain the veil tradition of a woman.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Arrangements were made in Rani Padmini’s Palace. Mirror was
placed in such a way that the Rani Padmini would be sitting about 80 feet away
on the steps of Jal-Mahal. Allauddin could view her face reflecting over the
water surface onto the mirror. However, the arrangement was such that direct
viewing was not possible. Allauddin was told that if he tried to bypass this
arrangement, he would be killed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After Allauddin saw the Queen, while he was returning back,
he deceitfully captured Ratan Singh. He demanded Rani Padmini to be handed over
to him to sought release of the King. Rajput soldiers attacked Khilji’s camp in
palanquins (thought to be of Rani Padmini’s assemblage) and rescued Ratan
Singh. The battle that ensued resulted into death of Ratan Singh & a certain
defeat of the Rajputs. Since, the defeat was evident, Rani Padmini led first
Jauhar of this fort. All men led suicide missions to cause maximum damage. It
is said that when Khilji entered the fort he could just see a mass pyre of
thousands of women.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">However, there is a debate on truth of this Mirror /
Reflection Story. This forms the basis of an epic poem Padmavat by Malik
Muhammad Jayasi. Doubt is because this poem was written about 250 years after
the actual incidence in the year 1303. Secondly, Allauddin Khilji had attacked
Chittorgarh twice before this, since year 1299. Both times he suffered massive
defeats at the hands of Rajputs. So there was no need for Rajputs to give-in
for his inappropriate demand during his 3<sup>rd</sup> attack.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Rani Padmini’s Palace seems to be very recent structure. It
was re-built very recently in 19<sup>th</sup> century. The legend of Rani
Padmini’s glimpse to Allauddin Khilji can be witnessed here with placement of
Mirror.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">From here we moved towards other side of Fort. It has the
main entrance of the Fort – Suraj Pol.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vsGDtxFtViA/WNf1DWLoPAI/AAAAAAAAVsc/6AbxuTKcNW0IeyVTzPxTPYKBqACJLnfOACPcB/s1600/DSC_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vsGDtxFtViA/WNf1DWLoPAI/AAAAAAAAVsc/6AbxuTKcNW0IeyVTzPxTPYKBqACJLnfOACPcB/s400/DSC_0211.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">View from Suraj Pol, the other side of Fort</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Apart from these, there are many structures which we gave a
miss – Kirti Stambha, Jain Temple, Kalika Mata Temple, Fateh Prakash Mahal. The
Fort is once said to have 84 water bodies which were the primary source for an
army of 50,000 people. Now 22 of them are now present. Most famous amongst them
is the Bheemlat Kund – formed by Bheema when he struck his foot here.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">At present there are about 400 people leaving on the Fort.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The Fort is Fish-shaped & is divided into three main
parts – Govt. Buildings on one side, all the attractions & sight-seeings in
the centre & a Deer Park towards other end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After this trip to glorious past, we commence our onward
journey to Udaipur, about 120 kms away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">November 10,
2016:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The main attraction in Udaipur is its City Palace. This City
Palace is divided into 3 parts – one is where the Royal Family still live,
second is converted in to a Star Hotel & the third portion is open to
Public. There is even a School inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The City Palace is built on the banks of Pichola Lake.
Though the construction started in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II (founder of
Udaipur), it has been regularly developed by series of various Rulers for the
next 400 years. The Palace is built around a small hillock; though it doesn’t
seem so as you enter. But as you rise till the fourth floor, which seems a
terrace, there are large trees over here. It seems a surprise that such large
trees have grown on a terrace; actually these trees are on this hillock.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lWMmSx-n_3k/WNf1DQG0tBI/AAAAAAAAVsc/RFIjaiVLcnoi65liaBQr4hKN6iW802i3ACPcB/s1600/DSC_0243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lWMmSx-n_3k/WNf1DQG0tBI/AAAAAAAAVsc/RFIjaiVLcnoi65liaBQr4hKN6iW802i3ACPcB/s400/DSC_0243.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Surprise, Surprise - Trees on the 4th Floor</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Entrance to the City Palace is through large triple-arch
gate – Tripolia. Entry ticket for Adult is Rs. 250, for Child is Rs. 100 &
for Camera is Rs. 250. We also hired a Guide for Rs. 250.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i9Aq9g4bQ2U/WNf1DVbkQ3I/AAAAAAAAVsc/h4qrBxeKtAAGH0VL_Yy-UkCVgzooBOL8gCPcB/s1600/DSC_0289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i9Aq9g4bQ2U/WNf1DVbkQ3I/AAAAAAAAVsc/h4qrBxeKtAAGH0VL_Yy-UkCVgzooBOL8gCPcB/s400/DSC_0289.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">When passed through Tripolia Gate, there is a open courtyard
– Manak Chowk. This used to be Diwan-e-Aam. From here we entered inside. There
is a network of narrow passages which take us through assortment of courtyards,
pavilions, terraces, balconies, corridors, rooms & even gardens built by
various Rulers over a period of time. From outside it looks like a flamboyant
building with artistic domes, towering towers & beautiful arches. It is an
architectural marvel of Rajasthan & even largest palace in the state. It
took us a little more than 2 hours to complete this tour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The palace has a gallery dedicated to Maharana Pratap; with
his weapons & armour, photos & paintings, maps depicting Battle of
Haldighati & information about his beloved horse, Chetak.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Few noteworthy palaces and chambers are Mor Chowk (also used
to be Diwan-e-Khaas) – has elaborate designs of three Peacocks depicting three
seasons; these are crafted with 5000 glass pieces, Sheesh Mahal – known for its
mirror designs, Dilkhush Mahal – with its multi-colored glass windows creating
a sense of joy as you enter, Moti Mahal – decorated with mirrors & tiles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tjdzYuY46Ao/WNf1DU8euPI/AAAAAAAAVsc/u4wXgCQEHA43_xOWqMX4AWUMYlXAF5OXACPcB/s1600/DSC_0268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tjdzYuY46Ao/WNf1DU8euPI/AAAAAAAAVsc/u4wXgCQEHA43_xOWqMX4AWUMYlXAF5OXACPcB/s400/DSC_0268.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mor Chowk</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The view from inside is mesmerizing – Udaipur city on one
side & Lake Pichola on other. Lake Pichola is the primary lake of Udaipur
(also called as City of Lakes). It is called so because it is behind the City
Palace (</span><span style="font-family: "mangal" , serif; font-size: 11pt;">पीछे</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzEINmCAeH7ESfYHskGtGzTC19Mn70ZAxI80X4MB-g2CuiwmwlghxwMSdBLx57ZlHezZ7Epre-mTBvg04jmLFeIAAN9xK72zpSHOxR151ZbMW8FpgfwF_z8XEGgZV287gbG3mqrxDA99n/s1600/DSC_0231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzEINmCAeH7ESfYHskGtGzTC19Mn70ZAxI80X4MB-g2CuiwmwlghxwMSdBLx57ZlHezZ7Epre-mTBvg04jmLFeIAAN9xK72zpSHOxR151ZbMW8FpgfwF_z8XEGgZV287gbG3mqrxDA99n/s400/DSC_0231.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lake Pichola</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0eoOl6JFbKCnkgQGCzgqlCXpA2rYyJlU8unSyHKcXK2mOMKGC9PLMsBXwbKYSmJrwa809nsliglYrcMaFB4oa6bRDfQ9gN8cz03BWKFG8Pn4J-v_wJOpak-FVotA_6I5lwhyEZuwagdl/s1600/DSC_0244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0eoOl6JFbKCnkgQGCzgqlCXpA2rYyJlU8unSyHKcXK2mOMKGC9PLMsBXwbKYSmJrwa809nsliglYrcMaFB4oa6bRDfQ9gN8cz03BWKFG8Pn4J-v_wJOpak-FVotA_6I5lwhyEZuwagdl/s400/DSC_0244.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Udaipur City</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">During entry inside the Palace at Manak Chowk we saw some
preparations going on – a Shamiyana being erected – like some function. When
enquired with our Guide, he informed these are the wedding preparations. The
Palace is available for Wedding Celebrations at the cost of about Rs. 1.25
Crore for 3 days of ceremony package (liquor extra).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Near City Palace is Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Lord
Jagannath. Presence of such large temple with exquisite sculptures is hard to
believe in a crowded locality around. It was built by Maharana Jagat Singh in
1651. Need to climb about 30-odd large steps to reach. It is said to be largest
temple of Udaipur.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">City Palace is the major & most visited tourist
attraction of Udaipur. It is also a time consuming place, if decided to cover
it in detail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After our lunch, we moved for a Puppet Show at Bharatiya Lok
Kala Mandal. It has museum which displays everything about Puppets. Apart from
Strings Puppets, there are Rod Puppets, Shadow Puppets, Water Puppets, Finger
Puppets, Hand Puppets. I saw many for the first time. There were Puppets from
various Regions of India and also from other Countries. There is a Puppet
Theatre where Puppet Shows are held every half an hour. Duration is about 20
mins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">And all this for a meager ticket of Rs. 40. I thought the
institute is doing a commendable job in keeping this old art form alive.
However, the condition of Museum needs an improvement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">For the evening, we had two options – Light & Sound Show
at City Palace or Rope-way Ride. Since we had seen L&S Show at Jaipur, we
preferred Rope-way Ride.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">By the banks of Doodh Talai (Lake) a Rope Way is constructed
towards a hillock. Tickets are Rs. 100 for adult & Rs. 50 for child. Ticket
is for return trip. A short ride of 2-3 minutes is beautiful, with splendid
view of Doodh Talai, Lake Pichola, City Palace and Jag Mandir. Once on top, the
view of Jaipur on other side is also worth watching.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkj36l1ONpeV6HCc2QV0N0zr-u5LM-vHEYV0c7XuJKcJDI9OYqktbIWDG5HBs2ysneaf5NlNeCaqKgknry3O99B3B6c17WAGpJjN8TGdNzbVYTnrW8luLVVa9Fxi8y1rTtl3cvUYaIzf-_/s1600/DSC_0293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkj36l1ONpeV6HCc2QV0N0zr-u5LM-vHEYV0c7XuJKcJDI9OYqktbIWDG5HBs2ysneaf5NlNeCaqKgknry3O99B3B6c17WAGpJjN8TGdNzbVYTnrW8luLVVa9Fxi8y1rTtl3cvUYaIzf-_/s400/DSC_0293.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Doodh Talai in foreground, Lake Pichola on left & City Palace on right</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is the best place to watch a sunset with setting of
Lake Pichola & its islands in the fore.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DenkZdO2c4U/WNf1DcGR2qI/AAAAAAAAVsc/ZQjO014YrwQL4Vqp_DnVP968Zr1O5CnxwCPcB/s1600/WP_20161110_17_05_44_Panorama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DenkZdO2c4U/WNf1DcGR2qI/AAAAAAAAVsc/ZQjO014YrwQL4Vqp_DnVP968Zr1O5CnxwCPcB/s400/WP_20161110_17_05_44_Panorama.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Panorama</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At the top, there is a canteen to have a cup of coffee &
snacks. A few steps above is the Karni Mata Temple (Mansha Poori Karne-wali
Maa). Also a Dargah is present.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">After a tiring tour, we retired back to our hotel. There are
few more attractions in Udaipur which we skipped for paucity of time –
Saheliyon Ki Bari, Vintage Car Museum, Bagore Ki Haveli (Cultural Program),
Light & Sound Show.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">November 10,
2016:</span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Morning, we started for Ajmer & Pushkar; sort of twin
cities with twin religious importance. Ajmer is about 260 kms from Udaipur
& Pushkar is 11 kms further.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Ajmer, originally Ajaymeru, is the city of Prithviraj
Chauhan. It was the Capital of Chahamana (Chauhan) Dynasty. Ajaymeru Fort was
built in 8<sup>th</sup> century by King Ajayaraja I while the city was built
gradually over the period, finally developed into capital by Ajayaraja II.
Finally in 1192, it came under Muslim rule after defeat of Prithviraj Chauhan
against Muhammad of Ghori.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Today, Ajmer is famous for Dargah Ajmer Sharif, shrine of Sufi
Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. Moinuddin Chisti was born in Afganistan & was
a direct descendent of Prophet Mohammad. He came to India after a dream in
which The Prophet guided him to do so. He reached Ajmer & settled here. He
garnered substantial following. He died in 12<sup>th</sup> century in Ajmer;
his tomb is the famous Dargah Sharif.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It is from here that various disciples branched out &
the Chisti Order was spread far & wide in South Asia. Nizamuddin Dargah in
Delhi is dedicated to one such disciple. Ajmer Sharif the Principle Dargah
among several Dargahs established from Sindh in Pakistan upto Bengal in east
& Deccan Plateau in South.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">During reign of Akbar in 15<sup>th</sup> century, Ajmer
& the Tomb of Moinuddin Chisti emerged as a popular pilgrimage site. Akbar
himself, along with his wife, used to come here from Agra to Ajmer every year
as a vow when he prayed for a son. The large pillars (minars) are constructed
at every 2 miles (3 kms) along the entire way from Agra to Ajmer. These pillars
mark the place of rest where royal pilgrims halted every day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">November 11,
2016:</span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In the morning, we started for Pushkar, about 11 kms from
Ajmer. It is renowned for its Brahma Temple which is said to be the only one in
the world. Actually, it is one of the very few temples of Brahma. It is one of
the oldest existing cities of India. It is referred a Teerth-Raj – King of
Pilgrimage Sites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Di7y-OoVzsQ/WNf1Db2bfRI/AAAAAAAAVsc/j729eveeTe8gfRyeiEiv7FGytOV4NW8ewCPcB/s1600/DSC_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Di7y-OoVzsQ/WNf1Db2bfRI/AAAAAAAAVsc/j729eveeTe8gfRyeiEiv7FGytOV4NW8ewCPcB/s400/DSC_0410.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Pushkar is also famous for its lake – Pushkar Lake. As per
mythology, it was formed from tears of Lord Shiva. When Goddess Sati died, Lord
Shiva cried so much for so long & his tears formed two lakes – one is in
Pakistan (Katas Raj Temple) while other is here in Pushkar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">It is also said that Lord Brahma wanted to perform a Yagna.
While searching for a place he came across a demon, Vajranash, who was killing
people. Using a Lotus, Brahma killed the demon. The pieces of Lotus Flower fell
down and formed a Lake – Pushkar (Pushpa-Flower + Kar-Hands). To perform Yadna,
Brahma didn’t had his wife, Savitri, along. Hence he married a Gurjar girl,
Gayatri. This angered Savitri & she cursed Brahma that he will be
worshipped only at Pushkar & nowhere else. Hence it is said that Lord
Brahma’s temple is only at Pushkar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The Lake is surrounded with about 50 ghats. Pilgrims use
these to take the sacred bath. The area is flocked by many priests who offer to
perform Poojas, Shradhs, etc. I had a feeling that everything had gone
commercial. They were trying to trick the tourists into getting some pooja done
& extort money in the form of Dakshinas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy04D3EO8524G7iQwh4zvLxnkVTe-ESbZKfYln6z1oZEA_Ljt5uZEJcPnS-2vK2siHCDGWKb9fnqvevlyLbWozQV_JkGtbo5wL4EwhHc06VdRuE13Y5EArsaPRZdu3wngO2icQ7rWyloMo/s1600/DSC_0419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy04D3EO8524G7iQwh4zvLxnkVTe-ESbZKfYln6z1oZEA_Ljt5uZEJcPnS-2vK2siHCDGWKb9fnqvevlyLbWozQV_JkGtbo5wL4EwhHc06VdRuE13Y5EArsaPRZdu3wngO2icQ7rWyloMo/s400/DSC_0419.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Brahma Temple is just like any other. Situated inside busy
market place, this 14<sup>th</sup> century temple doe</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">sn’t seem any special.
Actually, my perception of this temple being only one in the world was very
different. Though the present temple is comparatively recent one, the original
was said to be built 2000 years ago. The temple is constructed on high plinth
accessible through large marble steps. The main temple structure inside is
colorful, with blue pillars & red dome. The principal deity of the temple
is Lord Brahma with his second wife Gayatri. His first wife Savitri is said to
have left after cursing him; her temple is on a hill nearby.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aNKsc3qz4gs/WNf1DQYakMI/AAAAAAAAVsc/57_dbKi1nek5MhjtVmRralVZNbEW1HBBwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aNKsc3qz4gs/WNf1DQYakMI/AAAAAAAAVsc/57_dbKi1nek5MhjtVmRralVZNbEW1HBBwCPcB/s400/DSC_0420.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Market around Brahma Temple</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Another attraction of this place is the Pushkar Camel Fair
(or Pushkar ka Mela). It is an annual festival lasting for 5 days from Kartik
Ekadashi to Kartik Poornima (normally in the month of November). It is said to
be one of the world’s largest camel fairs.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Apart from a Camel & Livestock fair, it is famous for
various competions like Camel races, longest moustache & even a Cricket
match nowadays.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">T</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">here are multiple roadside shops which attract men, women
& kids alike.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UN16JzG71U4/WNf1DQwW6oI/AAAAAAAAVsc/imzVxkb_lZA5oxdYOHs9yMgttwg24LCIQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UN16JzG71U4/WNf1DQwW6oI/AAAAAAAAVsc/imzVxkb_lZA5oxdYOHs9yMgttwg24LCIQCPcB/s400/DSC_0425.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 115%;">By afternoon, we started
for our return journey. On our way back, we came across a place called Budha
Pushkar. It is a lake, which was dried-up at this time. It is a Holy Lake whose
historicity is said to be more ancient than even that of the much revered
Pushkar Lake</span>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had over evening flight
for home from Jaipur. We reached Jaipur (about 150 kms) by about 5 pm. By 10 pm
we were home, thus ending our journey to this Royal Land.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com4Rajasthan, India27.0238036 74.2179326000000419.7708121 63.89078410000004 34.2767951 84.545081100000033tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-53895883591913648112016-08-10T20:40:00.000+05:302016-08-10T20:40:23.378+05:30Bhushi Dam, The Busiest Place Near Pune - July 24, 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bhushi Dam has become the busiest place near Pune during monsoons. And this is only from recent decade or so. The place is always in discussion for all the wrong reasons every year when monsoon visit this part of India - heavy rush, traffic jams, drunk public, accidents. It feels as if whole of Pune & Mumbai visit here as soon as it starts raining.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Earlier it was not so. I remember having gone here without any rush about 15-20 years ago. After that I was always terrified of visiting here in fear of getting stuck in traffic.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This year I thought of doing it in a unique way. We decided to leave early & return back </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">before rush starts.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bhushi Dam actually is one of the oldest dams of the region. It was built on Indrayani river during 1860 for Railways. It was used as a water source for Steam Engines. Even today it is owned by Indian Railways.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnMqziEut-Qi3sQisDsGFKsMTl0r_gHzAhPInf0x_YwH01eeL63vJHfdv_EHeFkQhEM_cM5CeU1ekl_ejcRRCB8Oc6KR4ap3qufQGhyphenhyphenO1FtyVo-3aPQqWzF7wdpI237vtBQiR3I8dfKEnf/s1600/WP_20160724_08_42_32_Pro_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnMqziEut-Qi3sQisDsGFKsMTl0r_gHzAhPInf0x_YwH01eeL63vJHfdv_EHeFkQhEM_cM5CeU1ekl_ejcRRCB8Oc6KR4ap3qufQGhyphenhyphenO1FtyVo-3aPQqWzF7wdpI237vtBQiR3I8dfKEnf/s400/WP_20160724_08_42_32_Pro_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As the water level rise, there is a under-cut in the dam-wall. Water starts overflowing & falls over 15-20 steps constructed on other side of the wall. The view is awesome & all these people mentioned above die-hard to get drenched here & enjoy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ADTnkuYTB3c/V6c7uzLAHpI/AAAAAAAAU-4/An8oDD5J8v43l--DsGs7jgdtrkDUy24hQCPcB/s1600/WP_20160724_08_34_13_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ADTnkuYTB3c/V6c7uzLAHpI/AAAAAAAAU-4/An8oDD5J8v43l--DsGs7jgdtrkDUy24hQCPcB/s400/WP_20160724_08_34_13_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JtWocnBkGk/V6c7u4cjZMI/AAAAAAAAU-4/9EBxp_VhW2gyVnXzLHNWnfk5wiFqUIy1wCPcB/s1600/WP_20160724_08_46_03_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JtWocnBkGk/V6c7u4cjZMI/AAAAAAAAU-4/9EBxp_VhW2gyVnXzLHNWnfk5wiFqUIy1wCPcB/s400/WP_20160724_08_46_03_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z36A5OLTOZY/V6c7uwOvixI/AAAAAAAAU-4/xjUskwOOh8ESmacTZo6zmUDW-TiPFS_TQCPcB/s1600/WP_20160724_08_45_55_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z36A5OLTOZY/V6c7uwOvixI/AAAAAAAAU-4/xjUskwOOh8ESmacTZo6zmUDW-TiPFS_TQCPcB/s400/WP_20160724_08_45_55_Pro.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started at 6.30 in the morning from Pune. We took the old Pune-Mumbai Highway. We directly headed towards our destination as we didn't want to lose the congestion free time. With heavy heart with DID NOT STOP at Hotel Ramakrishna. Ahead of Ramkrishna, there is a left turn which goes over the Railway Flyover into Lonavala town. From here Bhushi Dam is about 5 kms. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached the parking at 8 am.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d241952.83542919013!2d73.48910747692567!3d18.64095947291866!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e6!4m5!1s0x3bc2bf2e67461101%3A0x828d43bf9d9ee343!2sPune%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d18.520430299999997!2d73.8567437!4m5!1s0x3be80161b1037549%3A0xff8293efc7aae18!2sBhushi+Dam%2C+Pune%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d18.7224264!2d73.3962885!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1470840339409" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is heavy loot by the locals here. Car parking is charged Rs. 100. Toilet & Changing Rooms are charged for Rs. 10. Onion Pakodas were for Rs. 50. And you don't have any option. However, one thing was noteworthy - toilets were really clean & were worth 10 Rs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a brief walk of about 300 meters till the Dam Wall. Once at the steps, the enjoyment is extraordinary.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When we reached, already 150-200 people were playing on the steps. It means so many of them had planned like we did & reached here early. They were just getting drenched in the white, gushing water and taking selfies. The locals were selling Vada-Pavs & Corn over the steps. Over-all the environment was jolly & picnic-mood.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">The water was crystal clear. We were able to see the bottom. Cleanilness around was so-so types. Mostly the tourists need to be blamed here.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PUrjnnnxC0k/V6tC7oJcUZI/AAAAAAAAVB4/WnlrwAS4aJ0_a834pgZzbtFRmalaZL9xQCPcB/s1600/WP_20160724_09_09_00_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PUrjnnnxC0k/V6tC7oJcUZI/AAAAAAAAVB4/WnlrwAS4aJ0_a834pgZzbtFRmalaZL9xQCPcB/s400/WP_20160724_09_09_00_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">We returned back by 9.15 am. By this time rush started to rise and we started our return journey. Now we could feel the traffic on opposite direction. Traffic Police were on job & they had started to regulate the traffic. At one point there were vehicle queued upto 500 meters. But this was for the on-coming lane. We were completely free.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">We had a breakfast at Lonavala & reached back home by 12 noon. </span><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">So, our plan was successfull. We didn't stuck into traffic anywhere; we got good car parking location; no hurdles in taking out the car; there was no mad rush anywhere; and more importantly, there were no drunkards; there were only family groups.</span><br />
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com2Bhushi Dam, Maharashtra 41040118.7224264 73.39628849999996918.7186669 73.391245999999967 18.7261859 73.401330999999971tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-28716961924504535632016-08-02T16:57:00.001+05:302018-10-01T20:38:48.961+05:30Ladakh Landscapes - May-June 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There goes one Ladakhi Saying, “<i>Only the best of friends and
fiercest of enemies visit this barren land</i>”.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Visiting Ladakh is always associated with some type of an
aura around it. It’s said to be an Epic Journey. And covering this region on a
bike makes it even more adventurous & exciting. With roads that open up for
only few months of the year, these 2000 kms give you an experience of a
lifetime.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ladakh is known for its Culture. Countless numbers of
Stupas, Prayer Wheels, Monasteries & vibrantly colorful Flags hanging all
around the houses, shops & temples tell that you are in the Land of the
Lamas.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ay2GZcSH3IE/V59z-uoSwRI/AAAAAAAAUus/-TzqF4QHb2kxDdnBXylnJ7pGCxuyB5gMQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0118_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ay2GZcSH3IE/V59z-uoSwRI/AAAAAAAAUus/-TzqF4QHb2kxDdnBXylnJ7pGCxuyB5gMQCPcB/s400/DSC_0118_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ladakh Flags</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-mfH_LcPL4/V590wwWyShI/AAAAAAAAUu0/uEF0HbShsyUKtBwy3IHvF0FDlKrUtqxeQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0129_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-mfH_LcPL4/V590wwWyShI/AAAAAAAAUu0/uEF0HbShsyUKtBwy3IHvF0FDlKrUtqxeQCPcB/s400/DSC_0129_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Stupa</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was our dream to cover this Trans-Himalayan Bike Ride,
considered to be one of the most adventurous rides in the world. And obviously
so, because what in store is the World’s Highest Motorable Road at 18,380 feet
(5,359 meters), the Second Coldest Inhabited Place on Earth after Siberia
(lowest recorded temperature is -60 deg. in 1995), World’s Highest Battlefield
(after Siachin).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m70!1m12!1m3!1d3447229.8511018734!2d74.09011352446933!3d32.46104414298068!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m55!3e0!4m5!1s0x391e84bf169d3525%3A0xf233488eeb8fd8d!2sJammu!3m2!1d32.726601599999995!2d74.8570259!4m5!1s0x38e1855686e3c5ef%3A0x66244b7cc1e305c6!2sSrinagar!3m2!1d34.0836708!2d74.7972825!4m5!1s0x38e323b1c052debb%3A0xa73f2023eb4fccae!2sKargil!3m2!1d34.5538522!2d76.1348944!4m5!1s0x38fdeb21445fed85%3A0xd1bb09975086f710!2sLeh!3m2!1d34.1525864!2d77.57705349999999!4m5!1s0x38fdb566117e73b9%3A0x55237f6799e7da9e!2sDiskit!3m2!1d34.5485043!2d77.55621!4m5!1s0x38fe2727205272bf%3A0x58fb4cb9fa98ce3!2sLukung!3m2!1d33.9967904!2d78.4112384!4m5!1s0x3903d24978088d49%3A0x2a67de735a9c1148!2sPang!3m2!1d33.1299062!2d77.7874026!4m5!1s0x39048708163fd03f%3A0x8129a80ebe5076cd!2sManali%2C+Himachal+Pradesh!3m2!1d32.2396325!2d77.1887145!4m5!1s0x390fb6482e623f7b%3A0x1814169a97109fae!2sAmbala+Cantt%2C+Haryana!3m2!1d30.361031399999998!2d76.8485468!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1470569617494" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The route we took was Jammu – Srinagar – Kargil – Leh –
Nubra Valley (Diskit) – Pangong Lake – Manali – Ambala. Total riding of about
2000 kms in 11 days.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The main highlight of this whole ride is the changing
landscapes. So much frequent sometimes, that they change after every 10-15 kms.
From lush green pastures of Kashmir Valley to raw form of nature with barren mountains
in Ladakh. Just couple of hours from Sonamarg, all civilization as if just
vanished. The only view that follows in the whole trip is the Snow on top of
the passes & Snow-clad Mountains at the horizon. These landscapes come in
all form of colors, textures, appearances. Mountain & rock colors change
from Grey to Violet to Green to White & Brown.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C-kvXXtZuVk/V59xW7oJ8vI/AAAAAAAAUtw/NAfKSdwlqicBDQmocwHOkBFpH-_ad5twQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0040_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C-kvXXtZuVk/V59xW7oJ8vI/AAAAAAAAUtw/NAfKSdwlqicBDQmocwHOkBFpH-_ad5twQCPcB/s400/DSC_0040_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kashmir Valley - first view after Jawahar Tunnel</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_1FkBWe3GlA/V59xwjdV5vI/AAAAAAAAUt4/Vcrnr3a1MA49-lXsbo9yPMYuz7DGmn6bwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0071_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_1FkBWe3GlA/V59xwjdV5vI/AAAAAAAAUt4/Vcrnr3a1MA49-lXsbo9yPMYuz7DGmn6bwCPcB/s400/DSC_0071_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sonamarg</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uubqqvYSd3A/V591IFalxVI/AAAAAAAAUvA/FzWQTYubCOMbrfq10A11g8XuYyD32vwbQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0130_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uubqqvYSd3A/V591IFalxVI/AAAAAAAAUvA/FzWQTYubCOMbrfq10A11g8XuYyD32vwbQCPcB/s400/DSC_0130_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ladakh</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The road coils through the hills moving through numbers of
passes (called as “La” in Ladakhi language). Zoji La, Fotu La, Khargung La,
Chang La, Baralacha La, etc. are to name a few. These passes basically connect
two regions / areas; e.g. Ladakh with Kashmir Valley & Leh with Nubra Valley.
All during the trip, the roads always keep company with the rivers of the
region. Starting with Tawi near Jammu, Chenaab on the way, Jhelum at Srinagar,
further followed by Sindhu (Indus) in Sonamarg, Saru at Kargil, Shyok in Nubra
Valley and finally Beas near Manali.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The road comprises of varied range - from a 4 lane highway
to “no roads”. Mostly single lane, these roads are a mixture of ghat sections
with multiple hair-pin bends, muddy – dusty roads, water logged at many places
due to melting snow, causes heavy sludge at some places. There are few water
crossings with slippery stones beneath. A slight misjudgment and there are
chances of slipping the bike. And all this with a deep valley on one side and
fear of a possible land-slide over other. It is very rightly said “Difficult
roads often lead to beautiful destinations”.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iW5OSAWxd08/V6IgeKEFJxI/AAAAAAAAU4s/un2zc3rghY06OaKn14PNpEJWsRPbbIYfgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0091-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iW5OSAWxd08/V6IgeKEFJxI/AAAAAAAAU4s/un2zc3rghY06OaKn14PNpEJWsRPbbIYfgCPcB/s400/DSC_0091-COLLAGE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Indian Army through its BRO (Border Roads Organization) has
done an extremely commendable job in building & maintaining Roads in this strategically
important area.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/fm0NeCFBc8U/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fm0NeCFBc8U?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For us, it all just started during a School Friends’ Get-together
& the idea of a Bike trip to Ladakh was conceptualized.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A mixed group of 6 was formed. And after an introduction
meet, plan was drafted, bookings were done & shopping was completed
(Clothing, Saddle-Bags, Protective Gears & Medicines).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We decided to send our bikes through train till Jammu.
Option of road transport is available. Chances of bikes getting damaged, is
equal for both the options. Train has an advantage of faster transport &
cheaper (by about 1000 Rs.). However, train has its own issues of Govt. bureaucracy
and no parcel tracking system.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We sent our bikes from Pune Station on May 23, 2016; just to
be on a safer side so that our bikes would reach at least before 27<sup>th</sup>
to be available for us on 28<sup>th</sup>. Normal Pune-Jammu journey takes 2
days by Jhelum Express.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>May 27, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We boarded 11.30 am flight to Delhi from Pune. Reaching
Delhi Airport, we moved towards New Delhi Station through Airport Metro
Service. And laid ourselves on the Platform awaiting for our evening train
(Jammu Rajdhani at 8.40 pm).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>May 28, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached Jammu early morning at 6.00 am. Deliveries at
Parcel Office open at 9.30 am. Till the time, we freshened up at the Waiting
Room. It takes lot of time to get the bikes ready actually (& we don’t
consider it while planning).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We got our bikes; we unpacked them, got to a nearby Fuel
Station to get Petrol in Bottles and mounted our baggage on them. All our bikes
were received in fairly good condition. Minor damages – one had small dent on
Fuel Tank, other had its Brake Lever bent, Front Mud-guard bent while another
had its Battery Water leaked out damaging the Paint.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Finally, when we were good to go, it was 12.30 pm. Actually,
we had planned that we would start by 10-10:30 & were aiming for first stop
at Srinagar (300 kms away). But now we decided to postpone by a day & have
a night-halt somewhere in between (Patnitop, maybe).</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-60xAKy8JG1U/V5-AskcqhUI/AAAAAAAAUz0/kte590fTNIU8CtQoGgy6OVI8xlXEMOGTQCPcB/s1600/WP_20160530_06_16_47_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-60xAKy8JG1U/V5-AskcqhUI/AAAAAAAAUz0/kte590fTNIU8CtQoGgy6OVI8xlXEMOGTQCPcB/s400/WP_20160530_06_16_47_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Such bikes are available on rent from Jammu, Srinagar <br />& in Ladakh</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was the time; we started our dream journey. After a
brief photo-op, we headed towards Fuel Station for a Tank Full. And then we
headed on the NH-1 towards Srinagar.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The road till Srinagar was completely known to me, since I
had been through this less than a year ago (<a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2015/07/vaishno-devi-calling-mata-kaa-bulawa.html" target="_blank">my Vaishnodevi Trip in July 2015</a>).
However, the difference this time was the self-ride. The whole route is heavily
polluted with trucks plying continuously.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Road till Udhampur (50 kms) is a complete 4 lane highway
(Toll Road – free for bikes) with 4 tunnels in between. It is recently
constructed. Once after Udhampur, the fun starts. Road from here onwards is a
complete ghat – single lane, no dividers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ahead of Udhampur, we stopped for lunch at a hotel by the
name Hotel Tawi View. We had planned to halt at Batote which is about 25 kms
ahead of Patnitop. By the time we completed our lunch, it was 3.30 pm & we
had only 60 kms to go till Batote. We were planning to reach our night-stay by
5 pm.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, today’s day was destined to falter all our plans. We
started to move & suddenly, it started raining heavily with thunderstorm. Hot
climate at about 30 deg suddenly changed within span of 15 mins. By the time we
could understand anything, we were wet by the core. So we decided to just be
& move on without taking out our rain gear (which was off-course packed at
the bottom most portion of our saddle-bags).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Instead of 5, we reached our hotel by 7 pm. Thunderous rains
on the very first day of our ride actually made us into jitters. We were really
worried. The nature showed its fury just in the beginning & 13 more days
were still to go!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 125 kms; Total: 125 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Jammu-Udhampur-Patnitop-Batote</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>May 29, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next morning, however, was completely cleared of any dark
clouds. It was clear skies & bright sunlight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had planned to leave by 7 am. However, we actually
started by 8.15. However, today’s journey was a relaxed one; with 175 kms to go
till Srinagar. Just ahead we witnessed our first rough road patch. The
construction work was in progress at the <span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Chenani-Nashri Tunnel</span> or Patnitop Tunnel site.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We took a break at Peerah. The place is famous for its
Rajma-Chaaval in Desi Ghee. The ghee actually flows over the Chaaval. We had
this during our last year’s visit at the same hotel.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bkNrXeCuXHs/V5-Arpp_aDI/AAAAAAAAUz0/oHuvPlFnNfM872worpMAw634yQsaQAltACPcB/s1600/WP_20160529_09_27_53_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bkNrXeCuXHs/V5-Arpp_aDI/AAAAAAAAUz0/oHuvPlFnNfM872worpMAw634yQsaQAltACPcB/s400/WP_20160529_09_27_53_Pro.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rajma Chaawal in Desi Ghee @ Peerah</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After this divine breakfast, we started ahead with a plan to
break at the iconic Jawahar Tunnel. Driving through this Tunnel is an
experience; driving at a slow pace behind some bigger vehicle on this single
lane road of about 2.5 kms. This opens up into Kashmir Valley. It is, thus,
gateway to the Paradise on Earth.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Road ahead is now fairly straight finally ascending to
plains till Srinagar. In between there is a place called Green Tunnel. It’s a
natural tunnel like formation due to tall Poplar Trees on both sides of the
road. We had our lunch somewhere nearby - Lakshmi Vaishno Dhaba.
After crossing Saffron (Kesar) Fields of Pampore, Awantipura Ruins, Bat
Factories of Sangam, we finally reached our destination for the day – Srinagar.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached our Hotel Malik Palace, just opposite Dal Lake,
parked our vehicles, unpacked luggage & it started raining heavily. Again
the climate changed in a span of 15 minutes (like yesterday).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By the time we freshened-up, the heavy rain normalized into
a drizzle. It was again an experience to roam around on the Boulevard Road with
Dal Lake by the side & watching the Sun set behind snow clad mountains.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwj_sdQOa5k/V59w2slIj1I/AAAAAAAAUtk/kyLd-_5X-44mzMcboPY_i7n5RRYn_7iSwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwj_sdQOa5k/V59w2slIj1I/AAAAAAAAUtk/kyLd-_5X-44mzMcboPY_i7n5RRYn_7iSwCPcB/s400/DSC_0047.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dal Lake, Srinagar</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-in9lKNgMwn0/V59wxi29nyI/AAAAAAAAUtk/n8yuVlw3NEYKBGR3GKhQfEC6uJOM0YGtQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-in9lKNgMwn0/V59wxi29nyI/AAAAAAAAUtk/n8yuVlw3NEYKBGR3GKhQfEC6uJOM0YGtQCPcB/s400/DSC_0054.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dal Lake, Srinagar</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Ride of the day: 175 kms; Total: 300 kms</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Batote-Peerah-Ramban-Jawahar
Tunnel-Qazigund-Anantnag-Srinagar</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>May 30, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started off by 7 am. After petrol fill-up, we moved for
Kargil. From here onwards, it was a new route for me. We missed one turn; but
this miss led us to a scenic circle. We encircled the complete Dal Lake – ride
of about 22 kms. With the Lake on the left & scenic beauty all around, the
ride was heavenly – various gardens of Srinagar, Shakaracharya Hill, Hari
Parbat, Hazrat Bal and off course snow clad mountains.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ahead of Gandarbal on the banks of Sindhu River (Indus), we
had our breakfast – Punjabi Dhaba. As we were moving towards Sonamarg through
the road along the banks of Indus, snow-clad mountains started appearing
nearer. And we had our first closest view of snow of the trip. We were sure to
have many more such occurrences ahead.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sonamarg - Meadow of Gold</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sonamarg (means Meadow of Gold) at above 9000 feet is one of
the main attractions of Kashmir Valley. This is a drive through Sindh Valley
with a backdrop of Green & White Mountains. This is the last time we saw
lush greenery around. Ahead of Sonamarg is Zoji La, a vital link between Ladakh
& Kashmir. Zoji La greeted us with muddy roads having twists & turns.
The drive opened-up the vista of what lies ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we started climbing the Pass gradually, the temperature
started to drop & the snow started to appear nearer. As the top approached,
the roads started worsening. Water loggings, rough road patches, slippery mud,
loose gravel were tasting durability of our bikes. Zoji La top at 11000 feet
was covered with snow walls on one side while deep valley on other. At points,
these snow walls were also on both sides and as tall as 30 feet. During peak
winters, snow fall here is till 60 feet.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LTSsHLeX7Fc/V5-Blo9QNaI/AAAAAAAAU0E/fisdyaBD7MAQ6l410yz_oN24KAliAseUQCPcB/s1600/WP_20160530_11_55_37_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LTSsHLeX7Fc/V5-Blo9QNaI/AAAAAAAAU0E/fisdyaBD7MAQ6l410yz_oN24KAliAseUQCPcB/s400/WP_20160530_11_55_37_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Road to Zoji La</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BcqZj6VeFtY/V5-BlFtSGpI/AAAAAAAAU0E/wiUOSL1Sh6Y9RXSgsjR5vaonbm_9nXB_ACPcB/s1600/WP_20160530_11_52_49_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BcqZj6VeFtY/V5-BlFtSGpI/AAAAAAAAU0E/wiUOSL1Sh6Y9RXSgsjR5vaonbm_9nXB_ACPcB/s400/WP_20160530_11_52_49_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Road to Zoji La</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tnLQZalsFnQ/V5-BeogiD3I/AAAAAAAAU0E/bmLw_B0r4WwRpynzvtC2dVlBShlQoTdFwCPcB/s1600/WP_20160530_11_52_42_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tnLQZalsFnQ/V5-BeogiD3I/AAAAAAAAU0E/bmLw_B0r4WwRpynzvtC2dVlBShlQoTdFwCPcB/s400/WP_20160530_11_52_42_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Road to Zoji La</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Zoji La Top</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8j7zzVJ0ZkM/V5-CUy-AzQI/AAAAAAAAU0Y/ZHWLMPSFq-ctkMv_zy4x0v_jx8IWnN2JgCPcB/s1600/WP_20160530_12_46_15_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8j7zzVJ0ZkM/V5-CUy-AzQI/AAAAAAAAU0Y/ZHWLMPSFq-ctkMv_zy4x0v_jx8IWnN2JgCPcB/s400/WP_20160530_12_46_15_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Zoji La Top</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After ascending Zoji La, there is an Army check-post at
Gumri. Army canteen is open to civilians as well – Samosas, Momos, Maggi, Tea.
A chat with a soldier there gave us an insight under which the Indian Army
operates. During peak winters, the whole NH-1 is closed to vehicular traffic.
The Army even dismantles all the bridges to avoid in enemy intrusion, since the
Army Posts are vacated.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After about 40 kms of Zoji La terrain, there is an entry
post at Kargil District. Basic info about the Bike, its rider & License
Number is noted down. Ladakh region starts after Zoji La & Kargil is the
gateway for it. We took about 8 hours to cross these 120 kms so far with just a
heavy breakfast in the morning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">20 kms more & we reached Drass, said to be 2<sup>nd</sup>
coldest inhabited place in world. Average Low Temperatures go till -22 deg C
with record low of about -45 deg C. But main attraction here is the Kargil War
Memorial, about 15 kms ahead.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ViUPXmMo4iw/V5-Cmud8CKI/AAAAAAAAU0Y/orY4i8TlTEkAlyCgy4d80bXeSof3ey2KACPcB/s1600/WP_20160530_15_08_43_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ViUPXmMo4iw/V5-Cmud8CKI/AAAAAAAAU0Y/orY4i8TlTEkAlyCgy4d80bXeSof3ey2KACPcB/s400/WP_20160530_15_08_43_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Drass - 2nd coldest inhabited place in world</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kargil War Memorial (or Vijay Path) was the patriotic moment
of our whole trip. Built at the foot of Tololing Range, it brought goose-bumps
in stomach by just thinking how our soldiers got back our land from enemy under
challenging climatic conditions. The Memorial was constructed in Nov 2004 to honor
our Soldiers who fought & won us the Kargil War & few of them who lost
their lives in doing so. The place was so selected because Drass Sector was the
sector where major part of War was fought. The area is surrounded with major
peaks Tiger Hill, Rhino Horn, Point 4875 (Batra Top) & Tololing. These are at
such a dominant position which overlooks the strategic Srinagar-Leh Highway.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A massive Tricolor furling on high mast attracts the attention,
with a flame burning at its feet 24x7. The wall behind is engraved with names
of Soldiers who laid their lives for the country. Manoj Pandey Gallery houses
number of photos & information on the war; and also the Pakistani items
captured (Ammunition, ID Cards, Currency Notes, Helmets, etc). Walking down the
Vijay Path bring tears in the eyes as you see one sentence written in front –
“When you go home, tell them of us… and say that for your tomorrow, we gave our
today.”</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoG5S_dEJPmWtBzlWrSoF2UKUFSJHz3jiAwRO7ZCDiqdWt_RZX3xlt_a7XmGDd4imTnnWfZy8_-y7-py1wqrhRJF1WfoUOxO9fsBwl1Gvh8DOPMhpNae3V6e3snetgiVQvkIxIecMi49wY/s1600/DSC_0102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoG5S_dEJPmWtBzlWrSoF2UKUFSJHz3jiAwRO7ZCDiqdWt_RZX3xlt_a7XmGDd4imTnnWfZy8_-y7-py1wqrhRJF1WfoUOxO9fsBwl1Gvh8DOPMhpNae3V6e3snetgiVQvkIxIecMi49wY/s400/DSC_0102.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Vijay Path - Kargil War Memorial</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ApR7ieKMZ8JpyZlHzoOsCBdMi0UNrns_5pYOu4dHUj626Ofyf9ohpmu2KeH5DD4e-R_hQVe7ggkCi-zcBrd6CDN9uPqIECKY7JlR0NGFYNaqlEFKPKSYVCPEOCJC2cHrZcPcRBqH0JnX/s1600/DSC_0108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ApR7ieKMZ8JpyZlHzoOsCBdMi0UNrns_5pYOu4dHUj626Ofyf9ohpmu2KeH5DD4e-R_hQVe7ggkCi-zcBrd6CDN9uPqIECKY7JlR0NGFYNaqlEFKPKSYVCPEOCJC2cHrZcPcRBqH0JnX/s400/DSC_0108.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Memorial</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Memorial is maintained in such a way that our heart
fills up with pride. Every season, one Battalion is entitled the responsibility
of maintaining the area. They also tell visitors the brief history of Kargil
War (about 10 mins.). Many videos are available on YouTube.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8RhD_Odq8UQ/V5-CRh8A60I/AAAAAAAAU0Y/XvIPCOq870A5fgvhUHLJdVjAJXM--iOZgCPcB/s1600/WP_20160530_16_35_41_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8RhD_Odq8UQ/V5-CRh8A60I/AAAAAAAAU0Y/XvIPCOq870A5fgvhUHLJdVjAJXM--iOZgCPcB/s400/WP_20160530_16_35_41_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had decided to spend not more than 15-20 minutes here as
we felt we were getting late. However, we ended up spending 1 hour 15 mins
here. After an hours’ drive or so, we reached Kargil. It is a small town
located on the banks of Suru River (a tributary of Indus). Kargil is 2<sup>nd</sup>
largest town in Ladakh after Leh. We reached our destination, Hotel D’Zojila at
6 pm.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mzdDqqQn5vk/V5-C8aBik7I/AAAAAAAAU0g/RCE4dmSZGJsoVb7RcS6Gm0NAhfOyLEB1ACPcB/s1600/WP_20160531_07_14_44_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mzdDqqQn5vk/V5-C8aBik7I/AAAAAAAAU0g/RCE4dmSZGJsoVb7RcS6Gm0NAhfOyLEB1ACPcB/s400/WP_20160531_07_14_44_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kargil Town - by the banks of River Suru</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There was a Car Service Station opposite our hotel. We got
our bikes washed in the evening for the exciting rides ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 220 kms; Total: 520 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Srinagar-Sonamarg-Zoji La-Dras-Kargil</i></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>May 31, 2016</b>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Again we started off at 7. Crossing over the bridge on River
Suru, we started to ascend the hillock. View of Kargil town with Suru flowing
in front was a view to enjoy. We filled-up the petrol & marched ahead. Our
breakfast stop was decided at Mulbekh, about 40 kms. However, the road in
between was bad - dusty with water loggings.
By 9 am we reached Mulbekh, which houses a Chamba Statue (of Standing
Buddha). Little ahead of Mulbekh town towards Leh, on your right is a large
rock. On this rock, the Buddha is carved. Actually it can be very easily seen,
but it is located on a turn & hence can be very well missed. One of our
friends missed this, then to wait for us 30 kms ahead.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOztD8W0PTLwJZHa1SYMevxfb0KH44zSsiSrNYbaOLQo4nUtRMh4SRSHlvIPMDNKv5qBBu8xyNKZn-OQjAsnkP3wnjQ2xv0dTsndoIbNJIcmzkMIWqmQ2j8fD-kejQgG_Vwq6H2Dr9X8pn/s1600/DSC_0117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOztD8W0PTLwJZHa1SYMevxfb0KH44zSsiSrNYbaOLQo4nUtRMh4SRSHlvIPMDNKv5qBBu8xyNKZn-OQjAsnkP3wnjQ2xv0dTsndoIbNJIcmzkMIWqmQ2j8fD-kejQgG_Vwq6H2Dr9X8pn/s400/DSC_0117.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Standing Buddha - Mulbekh</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The location is very scenic, with blue sky, barren mountains
& greenery at their feet. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pzz0uE6pNhg/V59z-EVoUEI/AAAAAAAAUus/03I_WnOkXbQlk6MBf-y6oC5h6NNXt8G4wCPcB/s1600/DSC_0116_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pzz0uE6pNhg/V59z-EVoUEI/AAAAAAAAUus/03I_WnOkXbQlk6MBf-y6oC5h6NNXt8G4wCPcB/s400/DSC_0116_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Enter the Ladakh</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After sumptuous breakfast, we started ahead. There are back-to-back two quick passes – Namika La (18 kms from Chamba) & Fotu La (30 kms from Namika). Surprisingly, both are with excellent roads. Obviously, with twists & turns. Fotu La Top is said to be the highest point on Srinagar-Leh Road at 13,500 feet. As we were moving ahead, the landscapes started changing for semi-barren to fully-barren. Here onwards, we could see only brown colored hills & plains, with absolutely no trees, even bushes & shrubs. Only the area around any village / town had the green cover.</span></div>
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</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwEgUrbX5VxEZj8Tp0v6JYRUx18lwcwD_XiWQpO38e8gZ2msKKIyQ3Zk8QgS52ypg6Cg8-puHjMySZFeBaR_pgmJ6UcUGscNlT7vq0cwama5dCDf-8Jy-o2txudGyL4lPLKDvq33DGfMe/s1600/WP_20160531_10_07_45_Panorama_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwEgUrbX5VxEZj8Tp0v6JYRUx18lwcwD_XiWQpO38e8gZ2msKKIyQ3Zk8QgS52ypg6Cg8-puHjMySZFeBaR_pgmJ6UcUGscNlT7vq0cwama5dCDf-8Jy-o2txudGyL4lPLKDvq33DGfMe/s400/WP_20160531_10_07_45_Panorama_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Namika La - Panorama</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHZ0Y1IqC-C4YsyuVjZxn9EiXPa371BX119o2Hop9hRfuH8vWEof0adD5KeD68ziE3fJYtryujrefrw7Lb3t4GhClEz_UP5NAat67MpvF5q3i1NZc4oYVrehEex9xZ9OJzZJQEoNIfi-T/s1600/DSC_0135_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHZ0Y1IqC-C4YsyuVjZxn9EiXPa371BX119o2Hop9hRfuH8vWEof0adD5KeD68ziE3fJYtryujrefrw7Lb3t4GhClEz_UP5NAat67MpvF5q3i1NZc4oYVrehEex9xZ9OJzZJQEoNIfi-T/s400/DSC_0135_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fotu La</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrL2pEWXbL7MuEahyJJrHTl_0a_SSwMG-yGNiYdOr6eCMDyqmC06w7v6TmEqp8n-sr5vwNmCyWHH1Hi2bQquVTP8zkd9q-KZHBvctfF4p1GXALA0TUyTAYgOQXhnV7lxgmWL72McjOUecW/s1600/DSC_0137_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrL2pEWXbL7MuEahyJJrHTl_0a_SSwMG-yGNiYdOr6eCMDyqmC06w7v6TmEqp8n-sr5vwNmCyWHH1Hi2bQquVTP8zkd9q-KZHBvctfF4p1GXALA0TUyTAYgOQXhnV7lxgmWL72McjOUecW/s400/DSC_0137_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fotu La</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As you ascend Fotu La, one can see a settlement surrounded
by mountains from all sides. With the constructions at the edge of the mountain
& greenery at the bottom, the place seems to be like an Oasis. It is a
village by the name Lamayuru, which houses one of the oldest & largest
Monastery in Ladakh (11<sup>th</sup> Century). There is a temple, a school
& residential buildings in the campus. There is an entry fee of Rs. 25 per
person. The construction of buildings at the edges of the mountain is
breathtaking.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgkDAhZFI_o/V592hKwOELI/AAAAAAAAUvc/ecnhE8UJEloPX32QMrJvPkkRMMMPOw_gACPcB/s1600/DSC_0145_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgkDAhZFI_o/V592hKwOELI/AAAAAAAAUvc/ecnhE8UJEloPX32QMrJvPkkRMMMPOw_gACPcB/s400/DSC_0145_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lamayuru Monastery</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had our lunch at Hotel Niranjana, just outside the
Monastery entrance. We had our Ladakh Flag moment, purchasing & tying those
flags to the bikes. This, in a way, has become a ritual for everyone visiting
Ladakh.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaQWdINwZtU/V6Ie3VuFACI/AAAAAAAAU3o/FAXXTz1DqcIj6WKqbRiZbYNkm2p86BvigCPcB/s1600/WP_20160531_12_45_28_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaQWdINwZtU/V6Ie3VuFACI/AAAAAAAAU3o/FAXXTz1DqcIj6WKqbRiZbYNkm2p86BvigCPcB/s400/WP_20160531_12_45_28_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpjtbX2_2V1Zxer0aCLWBODJJjDWI4cBiuukMo5I6h4lj47UshcuWnCNuIzBQmkRj48C6fabb5T2f2FQ5lNstGZ6gl6YBHDlYtza3OH2LwG2DppVVYUMsUtIdEgkoCLq37-XcoH5aB27c/s1600/WP_20160531_12_45_40_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpjtbX2_2V1Zxer0aCLWBODJJjDWI4cBiuukMo5I6h4lj47UshcuWnCNuIzBQmkRj48C6fabb5T2f2FQ5lNstGZ6gl6YBHDlYtza3OH2LwG2DppVVYUMsUtIdEgkoCLq37-XcoH5aB27c/s400/WP_20160531_12_45_40_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sktMUfPWb0A/V6Ie7P-o5pI/AAAAAAAAU3o/OV3BioZeUy0zOgaKhHRXSTnEV4yNpo1FwCPcB/s1600/WP_20160531_12_59_56_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sktMUfPWb0A/V6Ie7P-o5pI/AAAAAAAAU3o/OV3BioZeUy0zOgaKhHRXSTnEV4yNpo1FwCPcB/s400/WP_20160531_12_59_56_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we entered Ladakh, children walking / playing on the
roads come forward a “high-5”, a clap as we whizz past them on bikes. Sometimes,
they do come dangerously close. Just need to be careful & slow down a bit
near villages. We had purchased some biscuit packs for gifting them to the kids
on the way.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We moved ahead at 2 pm.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_dizsZ6rsO8/V6IfZsygIvI/AAAAAAAAU4Q/hvtuLaqZ0gMg-0e2-oE_BdEjDTpLQ_p1gCPcB/s1600/WP_20160531_13_56_55_Selfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_dizsZ6rsO8/V6IfZsygIvI/AAAAAAAAU4Q/hvtuLaqZ0gMg-0e2-oE_BdEjDTpLQ_p1gCPcB/s400/WP_20160531_13_56_55_Selfie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The area around Lamayuru is known as
Moonscape or Moonland. It is said to have resemblance to that Landscape on the
Moon. We asked the hotel owner about it. And he said, “it is just behind the
hillock”. Lamayuru Monastery is known for its landscape resembling that on
Moon.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we were cruising ahead, first time we saw different
color-shades in rocks & mountains. It started with Violet; so much so that
the shade was appearing in the road below. Maybe they use the same rocks &
gravel to construct the roads. Then over the days, we could identify colors
ranging from Green, Grey, Blue & even Orange.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKFfGG1bXZcxw1-vc_SIf7KuGzmM9PD2dEQ1_1LE1f39Hz3uZwdj4AEvEjo0kHwmuc8Mu2pwVx5ry1EEtG8cAa-9Gre13rGE27Ta_DJwJyAAy6v6dCuT16mvDYMQoIFKX-XQzKvRbJA95/s1600/WP_20160531_14_58_37_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKFfGG1bXZcxw1-vc_SIf7KuGzmM9PD2dEQ1_1LE1f39Hz3uZwdj4AEvEjo0kHwmuc8Mu2pwVx5ry1EEtG8cAa-9Gre13rGE27Ta_DJwJyAAy6v6dCuT16mvDYMQoIFKX-XQzKvRbJA95/s400/WP_20160531_14_58_37_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A Tinge Of Voilet</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had heard that in Ladakh, landscapes change every 10-15
kms. We were experiencing that. Apart from colors, there were changes in
patterns, textures & formations.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the way ahead</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> there is another nature’s beauty near the
place called Nimmu (80 kms ahead of Lamayuru). There is a confluence of two
Rivers – Indus & Zanskar. The place is so beautiful, that the two rivers
are very clearly distinguished by the colors – Grey Zanskar merging into Green
Indus. The view below, from the road by the top-side is spectacular.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3_SsoJ_PUAk/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3_SsoJ_PUAk?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just 5 kms is the wonder moment, the famous Magnetic Hill of
Ladakh. It is actually a demarcated spot on the highway. Here the vehicles when
parked with engine switched-off & brakes released, they tend to move uphill
(ascend). Actually, there is nothing magnetic in it. Even when water is poured
on the road, it flows upwards. This is an optical illusion created because of
the topography of the region & absence of clear horizon; without horizon,
judging the slope is difficult as reference is missing. What seems to be an uphill
is actually a downhill.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was 5 pm when started for Leh. On the way is a renowned
Gurudwara Pathar Saahib. We skipped this since we wanted to reach Leh in time.
By 6 pm we were inside Leh town. After a cup of tea, Maggi & Momos, we
started towards the search for our Hotel. Finally, by 6.45 pm, we reached our
Home-stay, Lingtse Guest House.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTjYAhav37JnEibt6MfFD-74SWqiexN3nY_LialDdvjR0i5NsewUESdhtpKrCBz98N48KTzbdwXqXn9UCWs21YsrJuQEOPhftPJc0C8AwIJ-y1pACmnBN700LnrC5wMrotQWbvJ1AfsTta/s1600/DSC_0158_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTjYAhav37JnEibt6MfFD-74SWqiexN3nY_LialDdvjR0i5NsewUESdhtpKrCBz98N48KTzbdwXqXn9UCWs21YsrJuQEOPhftPJc0C8AwIJ-y1pACmnBN700LnrC5wMrotQWbvJ1AfsTta/s400/DSC_0158_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Road to Leh</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The night was chilly. It was our first chilly night of the
journey. Temperature might had gone 4-5 degrees sub-zero.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 231 kms; Total: 751 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Kargil-Mulbekh-Fotu La-Lamayuru-Nimmu-Leh</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>June 1, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today was the rest day at Leh. Day kept for acclimatization
for the tough rides ahead. Site-seeing was optional plan. There are many places
to see in Leh – The Leh Palace, Hall of Fame (Army Museaum). We however, just
visited Shanti Stupa. Since it is located at the top of the hillock & we
were seeing it since yesterday when arrived in Leh and since it was near to our
Guest House. Afterwards, we went to the main market for some shopping.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RsCMqDruQYI/V592vEmxIXI/AAAAAAAAUvs/jX7CxeNdOWkAS3h-mrEkgrSsIlp6HeJAwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0161_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RsCMqDruQYI/V592vEmxIXI/AAAAAAAAUvs/jX7CxeNdOWkAS3h-mrEkgrSsIlp6HeJAwCPcB/s400/DSC_0161_1.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shanti Stupa is the highest place in the whole Leh town.
Panoramic view of Leh from here looks amazing. It was constructed by Japanese
Buddhists – construction started in 1983 & completed in 1991. Access here
is by 500 steps as well as vehicular road. It is a famous tourist attraction at
Leh due to its architecture, religious significance & spectacular views.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9jKoiQS7t6U/V593S7vNpHI/AAAAAAAAUwA/dSWJbT99sX0oSb3OdcANnA_26iFaUHIbACPcB/s1600/DSC_0163_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9jKoiQS7t6U/V593S7vNpHI/AAAAAAAAUwA/dSWJbT99sX0oSb3OdcANnA_26iFaUHIbACPcB/s400/DSC_0163_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shanti Stupa</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6E03NPej5vI/V593aIDR4jI/AAAAAAAAUwA/dr9lArzozuIrYM1SHYIWIsg9NzW-m4P_wCPcB/s1600/DSC_0223_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6E03NPej5vI/V593aIDR4jI/AAAAAAAAUwA/dr9lArzozuIrYM1SHYIWIsg9NzW-m4P_wCPcB/s400/DSC_0223_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shanti Stupa</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Post lunch, we came back to our rooms for another round of
rest. Evening, we spent with some planning for rides ahead. Then we went to
fill-up our bikes, had dinner & returned for good night’s sleep.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LboJVX4AVBA/V593XLfP4yI/AAAAAAAAUwA/PA6gEF3BKLsOUnAzLlZzVS0hCRQ8MFp1gCPcB/s1600/DSC_0165_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LboJVX4AVBA/V593XLfP4yI/AAAAAAAAUwA/PA6gEF3BKLsOUnAzLlZzVS0hCRQ8MFp1gCPcB/s400/DSC_0165_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leh Town Panorama - A View from Shanti Stupa</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YFQ31paLeYM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YFQ31paLeYM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leh town was the erstwhile capital of Ladakh region, today
Leh district is the 2</span><sup style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">nd</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> largest district in India after Kutch, Gujarat.
It’s a bigger town after Srinagar. It houses a large market area and almost
everything is available. All hotels, guest houses, home-stays & even
restaurants are equipped with Wi-Fi; which free for its patrons.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 7 kms; Total: 762 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>June 2, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started early today, by 6.30 am. This was to avoid the
“Aircraft Tourists”. It’s a phrase for the tourists who land in Leh by flights
or Taxis, take couple of day’s rest & then start for Nubra Valley &
Khardung La in the morning. We wanted to avoid their rush.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The road to Nubra Valley goes through Khardung La, said to
be word’s highest motorable road at 18,380 feet. Khardung La Top is about 40
kms from Leh. There are three check-posts in between – one Taxi Union CP while
two Army CP (South Pullu & North Pullu). Self-declaration Form has to be
submitted at these CPs. This is for security & safety of tourists, in case
of any emergency. Forms are available at Hotels in Leh.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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</a> <br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BnxtFcmH9wr/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Enroute Khardung La Top, towards Highest Motorable Road; 18,380 feet. Ride of a lifetime; visit once before you die; #amazingavenger #ladakhbikeride #feellikegod #khardunglatop #18380feet #18380feetshigestmoterableroad #brotherhood #placestoseebeforeyoudie #mustsee #mustvisitmustsee #itsmytravelogue #instalogues http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.com/2016/08/ladakh-landscapes-may-june-2016.html?m=1</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-09-16T06:17:22+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 15, 2018 at 11:17pm PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">30 kms road of pass between South & North Pullu was
difficult. We were on this road between 8 am to 10 am. Actually, water from
melting snow had accumulated in potholes on road. And that water had turned
into ice / snow overnight. This was causing our bikes to skid, if went over
them. However, the view was awesome.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-so92Et19RdQ/V594GrU49II/AAAAAAAAUwI/xi6ywwuZTAADJXbevDaHFiK8XQL4b_TuACPcB/s1600/DSC_0240_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-so92Et19RdQ/V594GrU49II/AAAAAAAAUwI/xi6ywwuZTAADJXbevDaHFiK8XQL4b_TuACPcB/s400/DSC_0240_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enroute Khardung La Top</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By 9 am, we were at the Top. It was a proud feeling to be at
a place 18000 feet above sea-level, which I had never thought I would be reaching.
Due to lack of oxygen, it is said that one must not stay here for more than
20-25 mins. After our photo-sessions & a cup of Kahwa, we started to descend
into Nubra Valley. Just before North Pullu, we had our breakfast at an Army
Canteen.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rxAnHyO256c/V6IftmkbQ3I/AAAAAAAAU4Q/X4r86EOMbjI-bqDbaZ3G-MYh5_C0nWZmQCPcB/s1600/WP_20160602_09_20_38_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rxAnHyO256c/V6IftmkbQ3I/AAAAAAAAU4Q/X4r86EOMbjI-bqDbaZ3G-MYh5_C0nWZmQCPcB/s400/WP_20160602_09_20_38_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we started descending down, the view of bluish-green
waters of Shyok River flowing in multiple streams below was divine.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hUCBNIFo_RE0lMX1r717MW0zrtxpehLgDCyaME_mrVx3AWcs-L6yDPbzsHSzUg0hj_M7gak_d__zg4rGHRdzEt4NGpeiTUCrBTbMHuX91sXLHRLpal9MikwnXJ2lr7rZFmJgTQd_MpsJ/s1600/WP_20160602_13_47_39_Pro_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hUCBNIFo_RE0lMX1r717MW0zrtxpehLgDCyaME_mrVx3AWcs-L6yDPbzsHSzUg0hj_M7gak_d__zg4rGHRdzEt4NGpeiTUCrBTbMHuX91sXLHRLpal9MikwnXJ2lr7rZFmJgTQd_MpsJ/s400/WP_20160602_13_47_39_Pro_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Descending Khardung La - Magnificient Shyok River in the background</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we
started negotiating turns & got down to plains, we reached the village by
the name Khalsar. From here there is a road towards left to Diskit, 20 kms
ahead. Here onwards, the landscapes changed. Rugged barren mountains &
rocks changed into desert & sand dunes. It felt as if the mountains around
are formed just of the loose sand pored over.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5ziQXcdtpjU/V594_sgc49I/AAAAAAAAUwc/SJznN1BxBBkvRWHMZ5HnRgNREf2aJG8fACPcB/s1600/DSC_0249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5ziQXcdtpjU/V594_sgc49I/AAAAAAAAUwc/SJznN1BxBBkvRWHMZ5HnRgNREf2aJG8fACPcB/s400/DSC_0249.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Desert Landscapes - Nubra Valley</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a Buddha Statue on a small hillock just at the
entrance of Diskit. It also has panoramic views. We, however, skipped it as we
had to move ahead to Hunder.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-40W43uooRJA/V5945FlaGuI/AAAAAAAAUwc/0C-daYfVoEIeBqLSgtOU7DXvP2o7UEjZQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-40W43uooRJA/V5945FlaGuI/AAAAAAAAUwc/0C-daYfVoEIeBqLSgtOU7DXvP2o7UEjZQCPcB/s400/DSC_0253.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hunder Sand Dunes</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After reaching Diskit, we kept our luggage into our hotel
rooms & immediately moved for Hunder – 7 kms ahead. Hunder is known for its
Sand Dunes. The Hunder Sand Dunes in Nubra Valley are like a marvel. Having a
full-fledged desert in Ladakh was never expected. And to add it, there are
Camels too, called Bactrian Camels; and those are Double-humped with heavy fur
all over. A camel ride cost was about 200 Rs. for 15 mins. The place is very
near to Diskit & hence can be covered. In case of shortage of time, it can
be very well skipped.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V_M3HucQRag/V595PSqtWtI/AAAAAAAAUwc/0FuG7aAyOFw6pmAQwJ8jOTyBlzBthnbzQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V_M3HucQRag/V595PSqtWtI/AAAAAAAAUwc/0FuG7aAyOFw6pmAQwJ8jOTyBlzBthnbzQCPcB/s400/DSC_0257.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Double Humped Camels (Bactrian Camels)</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LHcsr5FN1F4/V595xz2NfMI/AAAAAAAAUws/UUcO9QQ_qgYqUs63xzOWRTNka1d5v7VNgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0261_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LHcsr5FN1F4/V595xz2NfMI/AAAAAAAAUws/UUcO9QQ_qgYqUs63xzOWRTNka1d5v7VNgCPcB/s400/DSC_0261_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is another fascinating place ahead – Turtuk. It is the
northern most village of India; that last out-post. Ahead of Turtuk starts the
Pakistan controlled Gilgit-Baltistan areas. Another distinction is that, Turtuk
was under Pakistan control since 1947. India recaptured it in 1971 war. It is
said to be a scenic locations. We, however, skipped this as it was 90 kms ahead
of Diskit.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We returned back to our hotel in Diskit. On our way, we
filled-up our tanks at the only Fuel Pump in whole of Nubra Valley. It was a
manual pump, manned by just one person. It had only 5 litres & 10 litres
can. Hence fuel can be dispensed only in denominations of 5 litres. Sometimes,
the pump is closed due to non-availability of fuel.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aGyLsmfbuxY/V6IgpLCbo8I/AAAAAAAAU4s/pQJik4YP5FkEd03P04n3KW7Q8eb2YPtxgCPcB/s1600/WP_20160602_16_24_01_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aGyLsmfbuxY/V6IgpLCbo8I/AAAAAAAAU4s/pQJik4YP5FkEd03P04n3KW7Q8eb2YPtxgCPcB/s400/WP_20160602_16_24_01_Pro.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The only pump in whole Nubra Valley</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Diskit is a small town, but important one since tourist
foot-falls in Nubra Valley. I was surprised to know that people here get
electricity for only 3 hours a day (7 pm to 11 pm). We just cannot imagine life
without electricity.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 143 kms; Total: 905 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Leh-Khardung La-North
Pullu-Khalsar-Diskit-Hunder-Diskit</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>June 3, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our next destination plan was Pangong Tso (Lake). There are
3 main routes to reach Pangong. The most common is via Leh, the same route we
came on. However, it meant to cross Khardung La all over again & more
importantly, have one night stay in Leh. This route was adding another day into
the itinerary.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Second route is Wari La route.
Diskit-Khalsar-Agham-Tangyar-Wari La-Sakti-Chang La-Darbuk-Tangtse-Pangong.
This route though shorter as compared to first, have two passes to overcome –
dirt road, water crossings, high altitude, etc. This route would take whole day
to reach Pangong.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And then there is third route, the shortest but the most
difficult. Diskit-Khalsar-Agham-Shyok-Darbuk-Tangtse-Pangong. This is the
river-bed road through Shyok River. It is submerged sometimes in the river
water. The route is very rocky, has landslides, absolutely remote & faces
disruptions. Worst section is between Agham & Shyok, its complete
off-roader. Rest of the route is excellent. Pangong can be reached by late
afternoon. It is advisable to enquire availability of this route to the locals
(maybe hotel owners).</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dExau3AiL8w/V596BiWulEI/AAAAAAAAUw0/wrqcyEmLJhsFafdb1u6S9bfPNOYU1LKygCPcB/s1600/DSC_0263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dExau3AiL8w/V596BiWulEI/AAAAAAAAUw0/wrqcyEmLJhsFafdb1u6S9bfPNOYU1LKygCPcB/s400/DSC_0263.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Agham-Shyok Road - most difficult terrain of the trip</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oXGTUfswYyc/V596LcqsYRI/AAAAAAAAUw0/MKJaQJUuGl08Y66lUekiLngz2g2gpqKTgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oXGTUfswYyc/V596LcqsYRI/AAAAAAAAUw0/MKJaQJUuGl08Y66lUekiLngz2g2gpqKTgCPcB/s400/DSC_0265.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We decided to take the 3<sup>rd</sup> route. We started off
by 7 am after breakfast in the hotel itself. We reached till Khalsar on the
same yesterday’s route. After Khalsar, one road goes to left for Agham. The
route from Khalsar till Shyok was extremely scenic. The road was laid down
inside the river-bed, with Shyok flowing by the side. The road patches in
between were the worst in the trip so far; experience however, was awesome.
There was one 100 meter patch of just stones laid down, as there was no road
(it was complete sand). There were water loggings, dusty roads, loose gravel
& sand patches. Also, there were patches of kilometers of plain &
straight road. After long time, we were able to touch beyond 80 here. It took
5.5 hours to cover 70 kms till Shyok.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just prior to Shyok, it was already 12.30 & hence we had
some Maggi. 25 kms ahead is Tangtse, main town prior to Pangong. Stay &
food options are available here. But we decided to directly move to Pangong.
One needs to register at the Tangtse Police Station.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty6OItJWfrQ/V596mfmuOtI/AAAAAAAAUxA/T9Q3sfdGBrYj3LYH3VZqP00FRLqZuHN2QCPcB/s1600/DSC_0266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty6OItJWfrQ/V596mfmuOtI/AAAAAAAAUxA/T9Q3sfdGBrYj3LYH3VZqP00FRLqZuHN2QCPcB/s400/DSC_0266.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8Wbsr7BRSM_ANYK1p-p4mpl6ZZAfTPzpuEoPnWNv_OBvSejMu2anTjQKpvNKDzwj_4u4aGu47702nCd2TEuPhNY0wygEI3iPywE6TsPCOaCb7HILjYEXx9UlKZ3jrpzrEnKBBsDAU2MM/s1600/DSC_0267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8Wbsr7BRSM_ANYK1p-p4mpl6ZZAfTPzpuEoPnWNv_OBvSejMu2anTjQKpvNKDzwj_4u4aGu47702nCd2TEuPhNY0wygEI3iPywE6TsPCOaCb7HILjYEXx9UlKZ3jrpzrEnKBBsDAU2MM/s400/DSC_0267.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">40 kms ahead of Tangtse is the place Lukung, which is
actually the Pangong Lake. It is the point till vehicles go. Stay & food
options are available. There is an entry fee of Rs. 10 per person collected
just after Tangtse for visiting Pangong.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As you reach nearer to the Lake and as the mountains in
front move aside, large expanse of Blue is visible. The site is mesmerizing. The
lake is surrounded from all sides with barren brown mountains. It seems as if
large Sapphire stones are filled-up in a bowl of mountains. These barren mountains against exquisite blue waters create a contrasting effect elevates the beauty.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l2sjTLkGcf8/V6IhacQezsI/AAAAAAAAU68/dSh4WMBXdJcooeiuD3DopF7ui_bW78ZvgCPcB/s1600/WP_20160603_14_36_11_Pro_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l2sjTLkGcf8/V6IhacQezsI/AAAAAAAAU68/dSh4WMBXdJcooeiuD3DopF7ui_bW78ZvgCPcB/s400/WP_20160603_14_36_11_Pro_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pangong Tso (Lake) - First View</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is the Lake
that changes colors<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>. You can see different shades of
Blue, Violet & Green on the water surface. As the sun changes its position
over the day, the shades keep changing.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRO6MdVvlEaNK433jiwJO6txGqPFGS2BGff7mnL9UlfSUl0WLCSFylI_hyphenhyphenJJeftb3_LsLomUTDFQ32RjeYGn4PhIpZe6rjzyTGMFv8DiGeFKz70-1w5bDih1YO-7ZoGmWeJXbX-IX4-9bI/s1600/DSC_0268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRO6MdVvlEaNK433jiwJO6txGqPFGS2BGff7mnL9UlfSUl0WLCSFylI_hyphenhyphenJJeftb3_LsLomUTDFQ32RjeYGn4PhIpZe6rjzyTGMFv8DiGeFKz70-1w5bDih1YO-7ZoGmWeJXbX-IX4-9bI/s400/DSC_0268.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pangong Tso - Lake that changes colors!!!</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8-_jB7Z0IS0/V598UNAYlLI/AAAAAAAAUxw/QSkiUvdQAbM1C_3tWD8AoIa7P_PUQLkhwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8-_jB7Z0IS0/V598UNAYlLI/AAAAAAAAUxw/QSkiUvdQAbM1C_3tWD8AoIa7P_PUQLkhwCPcB/s400/DSC_0339.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pangong Lake is the salt water lake. Even so, it completely
freezes in peak winter. There are no fish or any other aquatic life considering
high salt content. It is however breeding ground for some birds. It is an
endorheic lake, i.e. closed water body. There is no water outflow to external
water bodies like rivers or ocean. There are two streams that feed the lake.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3BqEzjtElXY/V597hkfVntI/AAAAAAAAUxY/3FFcveaAv1s35v116jyvpyiYctBPOzWbwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3BqEzjtElXY/V597hkfVntI/AAAAAAAAUxY/3FFcveaAv1s35v116jyvpyiYctBPOzWbwCPcB/s400/DSC_0270.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Crystal Clear...</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdyjT52_VFY/V5971sOPneI/AAAAAAAAUxg/ShVyEiCU1WE0Fiw2hDRw_mgF72UYgZ3TQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0271_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdyjT52_VFY/V5971sOPneI/AAAAAAAAUxg/ShVyEiCU1WE0Fiw2hDRw_mgF72UYgZ3TQCPcB/s400/DSC_0271_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The lake lies on a disputed territory between India &
China, with the Line Of Actual Control passing over it. About 60% of lake lies
in China. It is about 134 kms long from India to China & 5 kms wide at its
broadest point.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After lunch & a photo-shoot, we decided to explore a
little ahead; may-be till China border ;-). However, China border is 40 kms
ahead, & civilians are not allowed. We drove till 5 kms & there was a
board prohibiting going further. We therefore ventured near the lake & got
some unique photographs.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Climax of Hindi film, 3-Idiots, was shot here. Its
impression is seen here in the names of hotels – e.g. Rancho’s Café.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DcEWhAvJ0dg/V6Ih1TjEGhI/AAAAAAAAU5c/mQS_jgeS6Ek0wBLBH56E2-KJyWR1kPILgCPcB/s1600/WP_20160603_18_08_51_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DcEWhAvJ0dg/V6Ih1TjEGhI/AAAAAAAAU5c/mQS_jgeS6Ek0wBLBH56E2-KJyWR1kPILgCPcB/s400/WP_20160603_18_08_51_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As the evening progressed into night, temperature started to
drop & atmosphere became windy. After dinner, we retired ourselves in the
tents. We didn’t had guts to change our clothes, it was so chilly. I was into 5
layered clothing. We just removed our shoes & slept with all layers on. This
was with two thick blankets / rugs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We were not able to sleep the whole night; heavy wind was
blowing. The flags over the tents were furling hard causing the heavy Fad-Fad
noise whole night.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At 2.30 am, me and a friend ventured outside as we got bored
by staying awake. The view outside was awesome. There were stars, stars &
stars all around - whole sky was filled with stars. We could see the Milky Way. The
experience was heavenly. I wished I could just stay there watching the view.
However, the chilly wind was taking its toll. Hence we returned inside.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/jmVcTwQqASA/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jmVcTwQqASA?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 163 kms; Total: 1068 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Diskit-Khalsar-Agham-Shyok-Darbuk-Tangtse-Pangong</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>June 4, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We got up, freshened ourselves… though didn’t wish to. It
was so freezing. Had coffee & just packed our bags on the bikes. There was
no question of bathing or even changing our clothes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started by 6.30 am. This was our last destination of
Ladakh trip. We had 3-4 days to go; however, it was now a return journey.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Till Darbuk, we took the same road. In the morning I
realized, there was considerable difference in landscape here. They were a lot
greener. The mountains were still barren, but the plains had green bushes all
over. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yesterday afternoon, maybe I didn’t notice, as I was excited
to see the Pangong Lake & capture my Time-lapse experiment here. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I saw a board there mentioning about Marmots (large squirrels, mostly found in mountainous regions). I wished I could see one.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5IUcPOZJWcQ/V598kliZY5I/AAAAAAAAUx8/zByZmx10AeMGZiCB6yRUmvgc9-JRMrnAQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5IUcPOZJWcQ/V598kliZY5I/AAAAAAAAUx8/zByZmx10AeMGZiCB6yRUmvgc9-JRMrnAQCPcB/s400/DSC_0345.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Changing landscapes - Pangong-Tangtse Road</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had breakfast at Tangtse & then got our names
registered at the Police Station. Then moved towards Darbuk. From here we took
the road for Chang La. Just before Chang La, we encountered an awesome
experience – we walked over frozen lake. There was this beautiful place
enroute. A small water body, a lake, beneath a mountain was frozen (part of
it). We walked over it (though by the side, so that even-if the ice breaks, we
would fall into ankle deep water).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--onFhFFuHIQ/V599jdQ9qHI/AAAAAAAAUyU/Y1508r1ejqcusfFhLDQGVWVMLJcw2iEuwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0352_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--onFhFFuHIQ/V599jdQ9qHI/AAAAAAAAUyU/Y1508r1ejqcusfFhLDQGVWVMLJcw2iEuwCPcB/s400/DSC_0352_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Frozen Lake - enroute Chang La</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggtf3sXPlytzc_PXE3RN0IwoqRQ8xVYJ7NXEXCFvf-VuG41xHYS1s4ACQqa9NdCU6GdxHZJ449oXGD1RDBAyZFU7tIfkHOggUV5CRAmUTCF7vUO6neOmCqqNJ9YPQvyNMPaSD72ku1P2Wy/s1600/DSC_0351-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggtf3sXPlytzc_PXE3RN0IwoqRQ8xVYJ7NXEXCFvf-VuG41xHYS1s4ACQqa9NdCU6GdxHZJ449oXGD1RDBAyZFU7tIfkHOggUV5CRAmUTCF7vUO6neOmCqqNJ9YPQvyNMPaSD72ku1P2Wy/s320/DSC_0351-COLLAGE.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A Walk On The Ice</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Chang La was better than Khardung La & Zoji La, but
still a 20 kms stretch was muddy. We descended Chang La into a town named Sakti
(or also Serthi), about 100 kms from Pangong. About 15 kms ahead was Karu. It’s
an important junction that connects Pangong Road to the Leh-Manali Highway. And
secondly, it is an important Fuel Fill-up Point on this highway. As the next
Fuel Station towards Manali is at Tandi, 330 kms away. Leh from here is 30 kms.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qXmG_EUtZck/V598xcQCHbI/AAAAAAAAUx8/rrKvz7O47V8KA3nKo0tRY8CsSwIz7qInQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qXmG_EUtZck/V598xcQCHbI/AAAAAAAAUx8/rrKvz7O47V8KA3nKo0tRY8CsSwIz7qInQCPcB/s400/DSC_0347.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had our tanks full. Normally, people carry Fuel Cans of
5-10 litres here. However, our bikes were giving mileage of about 40 kmpl,
except one. Hence we just carried one Can of 5 litres & couple of water
bottles of 1 litres. We had our lunch & proceeded towards Manali.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We decided to take a halt at Pang, about 140 kms ahead.
Crossing few small villages like Upshi, Gya & Rumtse, we reached the
Tanglang La. This was again much simpler compared to other 3 earlier. The roads
were mostly paved & the view was scenic.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wyH5U0P91D0/V599rcJToYI/AAAAAAAAUyU/WUhsjG_DEDM1trhywKf-_zPawZop6bz3ACPcB/s1600/DSC_0355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wyH5U0P91D0/V599rcJToYI/AAAAAAAAUyU/WUhsjG_DEDM1trhywKf-_zPawZop6bz3ACPcB/s400/DSC_0355.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbOZyQjWQLyeQDNHT7hZnYK148Us7xMtv2t8R8BGpWHzOZZ_-VPqxDuFbGY1FG7oUV-TOiYnU0znFSXU9ZJ5pAzToAkP0S3sWSlhktxy4UTaA4XuswwQXMO9ZpUFgAEB4f_4g6_mIVJWF/s1600/DSC_0356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbOZyQjWQLyeQDNHT7hZnYK148Us7xMtv2t8R8BGpWHzOZZ_-VPqxDuFbGY1FG7oUV-TOiYnU0znFSXU9ZJ5pAzToAkP0S3sWSlhktxy4UTaA4XuswwQXMO9ZpUFgAEB4f_4g6_mIVJWF/s400/DSC_0356.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enroute Tanglang La Top</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-54IyZ-52rrw/V59-RhsfviI/AAAAAAAAUyg/OB9tOu9M-eIDzYWPj28S4YYdj0u7qP77ACPcB/s1600/DSC_0357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-54IyZ-52rrw/V59-RhsfviI/AAAAAAAAUyg/OB9tOu9M-eIDzYWPj28S4YYdj0u7qP77ACPcB/s400/DSC_0357.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tanglang La Top</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After crossing Tanglang La, the stretch of 50 kms ahead is a
straight road on Plains. The area is called a More (Morey) Plains. It is a colossal
expanse of plain land mass on one side & a mountain range on other. Riding
here was fun. The road was straight; it was plain & well paved. Still were
not able to achieve speed beyond 60-70. Reason, strong wind current was opposing
us. And views were astonishing. We were just wondering that night, how many
cricket stadiums or airports this Plain can accommodate!</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Plains end abruptly with rock & sand formations
along Sumkhel Lungpa River. The view is stunning, mostly so, because one never expected such a scene in between this vast land mass. Scanty river water flowing at the
bottom in black while the gold & brown valley rising up on both sides with
natural formations, make you feel how short you are in front of the mighty
nature. The scene is so dramatic that you need to stop for a few minutes for
your mind to absorb it.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V2b9qbAsRkY/V59-WHA_ReI/AAAAAAAAUyg/JwrdFgoeoTQYIhLzeiok5iL0hsrH1vm2ACPcB/s1600/DSC_0359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V2b9qbAsRkY/V59-WHA_ReI/AAAAAAAAUyg/JwrdFgoeoTQYIhLzeiok5iL0hsrH1vm2ACPcB/s400/DSC_0359.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sumkhel-Lungpa River</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After descending for 5 kms over the sandy route with twists
& turns, we reached our destination for the day, Pang. It is said to be
World’s Highest Army Transit Camp at 15,640 feet. It is also a sort of a
camp-site for tourists. It is not a village as such. People don’t stay here
permanently. The locals come here during tourist season for earnings.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tnVQYXBzKGA/V59_CxvRz8I/AAAAAAAAUy0/XisaOcvvdXoJOLE1FDOne9EilWKjdOV1QCPcB/s1600/DSC_0363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tnVQYXBzKGA/V59_CxvRz8I/AAAAAAAAUy0/XisaOcvvdXoJOLE1FDOne9EilWKjdOV1QCPcB/s400/DSC_0363.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pang camp-site below</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are tents for stay. Rate is same like in Pangong. Rs.
200 per person. We bargained for Rs. 150. There is one puncture shop as well.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RfAhCxIeTZM/V6IiUpNBR4I/AAAAAAAAU5o/HFmesYTk2m0FiDw96Ee1Cv0cUun-7hp5wCPcB/s1600/WP_20160605_05_50_36_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RfAhCxIeTZM/V6IiUpNBR4I/AAAAAAAAU5o/HFmesYTk2m0FiDw96Ee1Cv0cUun-7hp5wCPcB/s400/WP_20160605_05_50_36_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pang camp-site</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our condition was same like in Pangong. It was chilly &
we didn’t dare to change. Even today, we slept with same all clothes on. The
tents were cozy with proper & heavy bedding. Today, we had a good night’s
sleep unlike yesterday.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Ride of the day: 270 kms; Total: 1338 kms</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Pangong-Tangtse-Darbuk-Chang
La-Sakti-Karoo-Upshi-Gya-Rumtse-Tanglang La-Pang</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>June 5, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We got up at 5. Normally, day rises very early here. By 5.30
am, sun-rays are seen on the ground. As I ventured outside of our tent, I saw
ice formed on my bike-seat. The dew that settled over-night, got freezed due to
sub-zero temperatures.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYQhMg7Vznc/V6IiU2zV-CI/AAAAAAAAU5o/lQWWfG-wsNk8cuJF7CZo-LdNI_yE9M2tQCPcB/s1600/WP_20160605_05_49_20_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYQhMg7Vznc/V6IiU2zV-CI/AAAAAAAAU5o/lQWWfG-wsNk8cuJF7CZo-LdNI_yE9M2tQCPcB/s400/WP_20160605_05_49_20_Pro.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Ice formed on the seat - 5.45 am</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started off by 6.30 am. Within couple of hours we crossed
2 back-to-back passes – Lachung La & Nakee La. Next hour, we were at the
Gata Loops. It is a series of 21 hair-pin bends which appear after Nakee La
& descend onto Tsarap River banks, going towards Sarchu. The name is unknown
to many, unless they traversed through this journey. The extreme stomach-churning hair-pin bends
coupled with a steep descend and the loose gravel, make this ride a thrill. By
11 we reached Sarchu, a border point between J&K and Himachal Pradesh.
There is a check-post, where registration has to be done. Sarchu is also a
camp-site for accommodation, similar to Pang.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8r4hesBuXwA/V59_M26F4nI/AAAAAAAAUy0/RORxw8gtbS8k7ur0thTOnpODrOkOLqbkwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8r4hesBuXwA/V59_M26F4nI/AAAAAAAAUy0/RORxw8gtbS8k7ur0thTOnpODrOkOLqbkwCPcB/s400/DSC_0367.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Gata Loops</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next was the most scenic pass of the trip – Baralacha La.
The view was like a white & brown blanket laid down till eye meets the sky.
Another scenic location came just while descending the pass, Suraj Taal, India’s 3</span><sup style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">rd</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> highest
lake. The lake is the origin of Bhaga River which joins further to Chandra
River forming Chandrabhaga which is later renamed to Chenab as it enters
J&K.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bCXHEahzyDc/V59_K-V43FI/AAAAAAAAUy0/YCpgNeElw0Mnt_dH0laJ_DaXKkbgR-4IQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bCXHEahzyDc/V59_K-V43FI/AAAAAAAAUy0/YCpgNeElw0Mnt_dH0laJ_DaXKkbgR-4IQCPcB/s400/DSC_0372.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enroute Baralacha La Top</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-__T-q0PCToU/V59_3315Y0I/AAAAAAAAUzM/a_za182_ud0mmUj3-lVJACuJdeiEWuKHgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-__T-q0PCToU/V59_3315Y0I/AAAAAAAAUzM/a_za182_ud0mmUj3-lVJACuJdeiEWuKHgCPcB/s400/DSC_0374.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Baralacha La Top</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8432FBzEXuo/V59_4lwqB_I/AAAAAAAAUzM/izDXlhCpIV0bAdWj9TYGgH3WXrXxuYkdwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0376_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8432FBzEXuo/V59_4lwqB_I/AAAAAAAAUzM/izDXlhCpIV0bAdWj9TYGgH3WXrXxuYkdwCPcB/s400/DSC_0376_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Suraj Taal</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Bcz1eyR9t0/V5-AB-1QoGI/AAAAAAAAUzM/HVsXjLRKleMeoNjxzXibvbtWithHmrDswCPcB/s1600/DSC_0377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Bcz1eyR9t0/V5-AB-1QoGI/AAAAAAAAUzM/HVsXjLRKleMeoNjxzXibvbtWithHmrDswCPcB/s400/DSC_0377.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Suraj Taal</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here onwards, we came across the famous Water Crossings of
the region. These make this route of Leh-Manali hard, yet exciting, thrilling
& adventurous. So far we had witnessed many Water Loggings (water is
accumulated in a ditch). These were the Crossings - water stream flows over the
road, sometimes with high pressure. There is no road below, but the smooth
pebbles & stones. The bike tends to slip & skid. One has to be
extremely cautious.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These water crossings are basically due to melting snow.
Hence it is advisable to cross these before 12 noon, as the water flow tends to
increase afterwards. These are mostly located around Zing Zing Bar. This unique
name is for the camp-site on the way, about 20 kms from Baralacha La. There
many such funny names on the way – Whisky Nala (Biskynala), Twing Twing Bar,
Brandy Bridge.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPskO4Cx1UU/V6IiywCmyBI/AAAAAAAAU54/9LUQlZ8dl44jISO0JbUzTuytr3C8YszCACPcB/s1600/WP_20160605_15_03_50_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPskO4Cx1UU/V6IiywCmyBI/AAAAAAAAU54/9LUQlZ8dl44jISO0JbUzTuytr3C8YszCACPcB/s400/WP_20160605_15_03_50_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After these Water Crossings, the road is fairly good. The
landscapes & scenes change now, from brown barren & white snow to green
vegetation. The road constantly goes along side the Bhaga River below. Situated
in this lush valley is beautiful town of Jispa. Many staying options are
available. Just 20 kms ahead is another town, Keylong. Stay options are
available here also.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had planned to make it to Manali, & it was just 4 pm.
Hence we decided to proceed. An important location, Tandi, is just 10 kms
ahead. Important because, it was the first Fuel Pump after 330 kms; and my
Avenger made it without need to top-up.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onocgha0kXk/V5-ArnWbYiI/AAAAAAAAUz0/y_owRICdnUgxuQ5k6kyBOEx6f9ExlL_5ACPcB/s1600/DSC_0380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onocgha0kXk/V5-ArnWbYiI/AAAAAAAAUz0/y_owRICdnUgxuQ5k6kyBOEx6f9ExlL_5ACPcB/s400/DSC_0380.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enroute Manali</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After petrol fill-up & a tea-break, we started for
Manali – our planned destination. This was our mis-calculation. We thought we
would make it by the day-break – about 100 kms in 3 hours. However, as we
started ascending Rohtang Pass, time just started flying away. At the base on
Rohtang, there is a check-post. Registration is required. The road climbing to
Rohtang is slippery & muddy. By the time we reached Rohtang Top, it was
pitch dark. We started descending in complete darkness. The road, however, was
good; completely tarred & wide enough. But driving in dark was worrisome.
Gradually, the traffic started diminishing – there were absolutely no bikers;
occasional cars & trucks were crossing by. And at a point, we were really
worried in case any mishap happens, or any breakdown strikes. We really feel
now, it was mistake to cover Rohtang at this hour; we should have stayed at
Jispa or Keylong. Next morning, we could have even enjoyed our ride over
Rohtang La, which we missed due to darkness.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By 10-10:30 pm, we reached at outskirts of Manali. We came
across a hotel, we just stopped over. There was no point in reaching Manali
& searching for a hotel in a crowded hill-station at that hour.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This was our longest kms run of the journey; our most
stretched bike ride of about 16 hours drive; we crossed four major passes &
about the same Water Crossings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 315 kms; Total: 1653 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Pang-Lachung La- Nakee La -Gata Loops-Sarchu-Baralacha
La-Jispa-Keylong-Tandi-Rohtang La-Manali</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>June 6, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our return flight from Delhi was on 9<sup>th</sup> night.
Our destination for bike ride was Ambala, from where we had to parcel our bikes
through train & then move to Delhi. We were early by about couple of days –
this was because, we took the short-cut route from Nubra Valley to Pangong
& second, we cancelled our plan for Tsomoriri Lake. We therefore decided to
pre-pone our flight to 8<sup>th</sup> morning.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now we had a relaxed time. We decided to leave late since we
had comfortable time to reach Ambala. We slept till late today. Had a lazy
breakfast at 9 & then a fresh bath after 3 days. Post lunch, we started off.
We decided to visit the Hadimba Temple, the main attraction of Manali.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hadimba Temple is dedicated to the Demon Goddess Hadimba
(Hidimbi). She was the wife of Bheema (from Mahabharata). The temple is located
at a higher elevation in heart of town & main market place of Manali. Main
temple is situated amidst dense Deodar (Cedar) Trees. Vehicular road goes the
parking area near the entrance.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The temple is well-known for its unique, rather unusual,
architectural style. Built like a Pagoda, it consists of 3 square-shaped roofs
with a conical top over it. Majorly it is made in wood, with some carvings over
it. The 4 walls of Sanctum Sanctorum are lined-up with real faces of dead
animals – Deer, Antelopes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After about ½ an hour, we moved on. The road here onwards
was excellent. Plain tarred road, single lane though (undivided), with
mountainous cliffs on right & the mighty Beas River on left. Riding here was
fun.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had a coffee break at Kullu. There are options to do
Water Rafting here. We skipped it; in case any of us got injured, who would
drive our bikes? (was the question).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We took a stop-over at Mandi for some Pani Puri & Kulfi
& then moved ahead. We were targeting Rupnagar, which was more than 250 kms
away. However just before Sundernagar, one of our bikes got punctured.
Secondly, there were thunders in the clouds & it felt as if it would rain.
It started getting dark & the road ahead of Sundernagar was pathetic. We
decided to take halt. We came across a hotel on the highway in the hills &
we broke the journey. We were somewhere near the town by the name Hamirpur.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 151 kms; Total: 1804 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Manali-Kullu-Mandi-Sundernagar-Hamirpur</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>June 7, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Morning we started at 7 am. This was our last day of riding.
Now, we were at the fag-end of the journey. So far, all these days, it had been
a routine of carrying our baggages till the bikes, tying them up, start riding,
untie it at the destination in the evening & finally carry it to the rooms.
All this would end today.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It started raining whole night; it was, even in the morning.
However, now we had to make it to Ambala Cantonment Railway Station by
afternoon, so that we can book our bikes for Rail Parcel, then move on to Delhi
to catch tomorrow morning flight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We hence decided to move. Rain was not lashing out… it was
occasional. This time, I covered-up myself with rain gear (Jacket, Rain Pants
& Shoe-Cover). Rain was lashing at some point & it was clear skies
next. After more than a week, we came across 4 & 6 lane highway. By the
time, we neared Chandigarh climate again changed to bright sunny & hot.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By 1 pm we reach Ambala Cantt Station.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Ride of the day: 206 kms; Total: 2010 kms</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Route: Hamirpur-Rupnagar-Chandigarh (bypass)-Ambala Cantt</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hereon, we proceeded for parcel formalities. Again the same
old Govt. Bureaucratic Story. We completed all the processes by 5 pm. We skipped
lunch due to this, as this was important.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After all our bikes were handed over, we hired a Taxi for
Delhi. On the way had some heavy South Indian snacks & reach New Delhi
Airport by 11 pm. We had booked a hotel near the Airport.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>June 8, 2016</b>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At 6 am we checked-out & moved to the Airport. This was
the final leg, the last day of an EPIC JOURNEY. Within few more hours, we were
back to the comforts of our homes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Odo Readings:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jammu 0 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Udhampur 50 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Batote 125 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Srinagar 300 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kargil War Memorial 455 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kargil Town 520 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lamayuru 620 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nimmu 700 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leh 751 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Khardung La Top 791 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Diskit 890 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hunder 897 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shyok 967 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tangtse 992 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pangong Tso 1068 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sakti 1168 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Karu 1183 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pang 1323 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tandi 1513 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Manali 1653 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hamirpur 1804 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ambala Cantt 2010 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Few Tips</u></b>:</span><br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Carry original documents - Personal ID as well as Vehicle Papers (Driving License, RC, TC, PUC & Insurance). Also, keep two photo-copies of each.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Start early - this ensures you reach your destination in time & takes care of time losses due to traffic jams, roads closed, breakdowns.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is not any demon; you just need to be careful & take precautions. AMS symptoms are headache, vomiting, dizzyness</span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Consult your Family Doctor for any special precautions.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Carry a Diamox tablet, however it is not mandatory to take it; you may avoid it unless the symptoms are unbearable.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Carry Camphor (Kapur) along & just smell it if you feel dizzy (Bheem-seni Camphor is preferred).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Carry a Homeopathic medicine - COCO.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Actually we didn't feel AMS while riding. It is felt if you stop. Do not spend more than 10 minutes on Passes Tops.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Keep one rest-day at Leh; if landing directly in Leh through Flight, keep two rest-days for acclimatization.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Riding / driving from Jammu to Leh is easier as ascend is gradual; from Manali to Leh is difficult due to sudden ascend (from 6000 feet to 15000 feet).</span></li>
</ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Carry a basic Medical Kit & essential medicines as per requirement.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Carry pouches of Electral or Glucose or alike to avoid dehydration.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Connectivity can be a problem. Only BSNL & to some extent Aircel Network is available. If possible, carry a BSNL Postpaid Sim. Also, only Postpaid connections work in J&K. Pre-paid Sims of any Network are of no use.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wi-Fi is abundantly available in all major towns. All hotels provide free Wi-Fi. In Leh, even Restaurants provide it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dressing - no need for any special costly riding jackets (however, they are definitely useful if available).</span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Layered clothing can be used; only required clothes to be put on.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Body Warmer (Thermals) are useful.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rain Wear to be carried as weather is undependable. Shoe Covers are available which protect shoes & socks getting wet due to rain & in Water Crossings & Loggings.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wear a Leather Jacket as the area is extremely dusty. Avoid woolens.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Helmet is obvious - have a Goggle (UV filter & polarised) and a Balaclava or Face Mask.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Have basic guards - Knee Guard, Elbow Guard.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sun-screen lotion - Climate is cold & chilly, however Sun is strong</span></li>
</ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Self-declaration Forms - required during passing Khardung La. They are available at hotels in Leh. At other check-posts, only registration is required. While coming from Manali to Leh, registration is required to cross Rohtang La</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Taxi Unions are strong in the Region. Only J&K registered Taxis are allowed to ply on interior roads for Pangong Lake & Nubra Valley. In case you are coming by Self-driven Vehicles (like Zoom Cars), you can drive through the main highways only (Srinagar-Leh & Leh-Manali). To visit Nubra & Pangong, you need to hire a Taxi or Bike.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Credit Cards are absolutely useless in Ladakh. Cash to be carried. Rs. 5000 is sufficient at any point of time; however, Rs. 10000 is safer. ATMs are available at Srinagar, Kargil, Leh, Manali. ATMs also available in 2-3 smaller towns, however not sure about cash availability.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Toilets are hardly available on the way. No problem in bigger towns; however on the way or at Pangong, Pang, Sarchu (camp-sites), it can be a problem. Only enclosures on four-sides with open to sky toilets are available. At some places, cleanliness can be an issue.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lastly, remember that you are here for RIDING & not RACING. Do not try to do any off-roading or stunts. Enjoy the view instead.</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Stay details:</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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</div>
Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com5Leh 19410134.1525864 77.5770534999999234.0474809 77.415691999999922 34.2576919 77.738414999999918tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-76023332828252199512016-02-08T21:52:00.000+05:302019-08-23T21:11:17.310+05:30Cars, Bikes & The Taj - February 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hM8HjHzCrew/VvdQ8y217wI/AAAAAAAAUlQ/r94e47dcNsE0umUM_XaqUpcYrHfisJ6Lg/s1600/FotorCreated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hM8HjHzCrew/VvdQ8y217wI/AAAAAAAAUlQ/r94e47dcNsE0umUM_XaqUpcYrHfisJ6Lg/s400/FotorCreated.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Auto-Expo is one such fair that is most awaited by the
Professionals, Experts and the General Public alike. It is a biennial
automotive show which takes place at New Delhi during February 1<sup>st</sup>
week every alternate year. It is Asia’s largest & World’s second largest
Motor Show (after International Motor Show, Germany).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was a dream for me & few others in the group to visit
this Auto-Tech-Fest. We 6 of us colleagues planned for this year, 6 months in
advance. We did our flight ticket bookings as well as stay arrangements in
August 2015. We decided to allocate 2 days at the Expo & the 3rd day for
sight-seeing (we decided to visit The Tajmahal). Auto-Expo Tickets (Passes)
opened in November 2015 on BookMyShow & we could be the first ones to have
booked them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Finally, we started our Auto-Expo trip on February 7, 2015
(Sunday). We boarded 7 pm Indigo flight to Delhi from Pune. We had done our
stay arrangements at Greater Noida (near to the Expo Venue). This was to avoid
daily travelling from Delhi to Greater Noida which is good 50 kms plus. We got out of airport by 9.30 pm. We headed
for the Airport Metro (Orange line) & reached New Delhi. From here changed
over to Yellow Line till Rajiv Chowk. And then to Blue Line till Botanical
Garden. It was about 12 midnight & we hadn’t had eaten anything. And we
came to know that Greater Noida is still about 30 kms away from here. We
searched a Vaishnav Dhaba nearby which was about to close. Requested him to
provide some dinner. And then took a cab to our Guest House at Greater Noida.
We reached our Guest House at 1 am.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>February 8, 2015:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next morning, after breakfast we started for the India Expo
Mart, venue for the Auto-Expo. Botanical Garden Metro Station is the last Metro
Stop for visiting Auto Expo & there are regular Bus Service provided during
the Expo Time. We took an Auto-rickshaw & reached the Gate at 9.35 am.
Opening time is 10 am; however, they opened the gates 10 minutes early.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L1I-dqNKIsM/VvFaqRcvLUI/AAAAAAAAUg8/6WlUZXWNcAEQgDP-qVm3DNVxQ6H00ugmA/s1600/DSC_0523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L1I-dqNKIsM/VvFaqRcvLUI/AAAAAAAAUg8/6WlUZXWNcAEQgDP-qVm3DNVxQ6H00ugmA/s400/DSC_0523.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Sports Car - Renault</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MB1EaYM1K0U/VvFdoOtylII/AAAAAAAAUhk/RLRtBvkRwCAGCwRicWUL20U7FNPOPY-3A/s1600/DSC_0629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MB1EaYM1K0U/VvFdoOtylII/AAAAAAAAUhk/RLRtBvkRwCAGCwRicWUL20U7FNPOPY-3A/s400/DSC_0629.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Sports Car - Hyundai (F0)</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since the first half was Business Hours (costly tickets at
Rs. 650), the rush was limited. This would rise in the afternoon when General
Hours would start (Rs. 300). The pavilions were arranged in about 3 large
halls; the walking distance was less compared to Pragati Maidan (Auto-Expo used
to be here till year 2012).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Creativity was at its peak at various pavilions – from color
combinations, lights, proms, performances, games, photographs, gifts,
competitions, etc. And not to forget, the Racing Cars /
Bikes, Concepts, New Launches, Unveilings, New Technology & off course
Beautiful Models complementing them all.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8gmNfsgmn44/VvFcvXkPgwI/AAAAAAAAUhg/Gjk03I9eVacKsCnNOs8mr0ed79fzWVtPw/s1600/DSC_0511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8gmNfsgmn44/VvFcvXkPgwI/AAAAAAAAUhg/Gjk03I9eVacKsCnNOs8mr0ed79fzWVtPw/s400/DSC_0511.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A65_fYGsCJw/VvFcWrP_q7I/AAAAAAAAUhM/Y3i0QtZ0pKgowlmTezfBmyZp0NyHEgcAQ/s1600/DSC_0585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A65_fYGsCJw/VvFcWrP_q7I/AAAAAAAAUhM/Y3i0QtZ0pKgowlmTezfBmyZp0NyHEgcAQ/s400/DSC_0585.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mKvpQhN3k-8/VvFkmQtSDYI/AAAAAAAAUiI/bNATrK7GvRYYpXGJ1_KTUpk20IM-lSSsQ/s1600/DSC_0746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mKvpQhN3k-8/VvFkmQtSDYI/AAAAAAAAUiI/bNATrK7GvRYYpXGJ1_KTUpk20IM-lSSsQ/s400/DSC_0746.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c7D-msrLJH4/VvFlVD5lNwI/AAAAAAAAUiU/OmPc6MG1fVYVZp5F7x5yPYNnA34OkQjrQ/s1600/DSC_0781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c7D-msrLJH4/VvFlVD5lNwI/AAAAAAAAUiU/OmPc6MG1fVYVZp5F7x5yPYNnA34OkQjrQ/s400/DSC_0781.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Obviously, rush was more at the Luxury Cars Pavilion – BMW,
Merc & the Audi. We started with Renault, Tata Motors, Jaguar, Mercedes,
Volkswagon, BMW, Datsun & Nissan. By the time we reached Audi, there was
extreme rush. There was a queue all around the pavilion. We decided to skip it
for time being & come back again tomorrow. We covered other pavilions of
Jeep, Fiat, Ford, Mahindra, Honda, Toyota, Chevrolet & Maruti. There was a
special pavilion dedicated to the Vintage Cars & Bikes by HMCI (Heritage
Motoring Club of India). There were stunt shows by 2-Wheeler Companies &
Tyre Manufacturers.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXifPJya3Ow3kYeOy6L3NVJM3bGjCTIutCPzDNN3IS85MgIlNWXT7KSAJyrlmP43dkT4cbe3pW5kO3LyDcRPgPA4hG0zE4rcFk26CtqdwLmYw7YjDNTDP3ndEFxAHbI1NS31Jv6a6H9_zp/s1600/DSC_0667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXifPJya3Ow3kYeOy6L3NVJM3bGjCTIutCPzDNN3IS85MgIlNWXT7KSAJyrlmP43dkT4cbe3pW5kO3LyDcRPgPA4hG0zE4rcFk26CtqdwLmYw7YjDNTDP3ndEFxAHbI1NS31Jv6a6H9_zp/s400/DSC_0667.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Scale Model - Corvette</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGeR38nfzpk/VvFdj73CTUI/AAAAAAAAUhk/XUWVzBOxk6YY13t1CkRZDCGlLPtzdoWJg/s1600/DSC_0669.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGeR38nfzpk/VvFdj73CTUI/AAAAAAAAUhk/XUWVzBOxk6YY13t1CkRZDCGlLPtzdoWJg/s400/DSC_0669.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Scale Model - Rolls Royce</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lunch & Food was available in variety. Name a Food Brand
& Type, and it was available – from Haldiram to Dominos and from Pizzas to
Punjabis to Chats. Food was available through Token (Card) system.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>February 9, 2015:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a tiring 1<sup>st</sup> Full Day we returned next day
for half-a-day venture. As we entered inside, we headed straight for Audi. We
were the first ones to get entry inside. Then we covered the 2-Wheelers - Hero,
Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha, Piaggio, Vespa, TVS.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUhSMAOawiQ/VvFkkEqQ7kI/AAAAAAAAUiI/WkV1ocKRx200P5QTn_4hvpLpD7dPkRPLg/s1600/DSC_0703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUhSMAOawiQ/VvFkkEqQ7kI/AAAAAAAAUiI/WkV1ocKRx200P5QTn_4hvpLpD7dPkRPLg/s400/DSC_0703.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Audi</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kDHwKhX-o4Y/VvFkmFmWneI/AAAAAAAAUiI/5eeK6dvD7H0hGnNWhUiyCHWW3HhaSIk9w/s1600/DSC_0769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kDHwKhX-o4Y/VvFkmFmWneI/AAAAAAAAUiI/5eeK6dvD7H0hGnNWhUiyCHWW3HhaSIk9w/s400/DSC_0769.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Yamaha Bikes lined-up</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D-zYXyCh8T8/VvFlRCUlrNI/AAAAAAAAUiU/VSJXV1kABXgI1pq5p7Ndn8GF9PWiRZGjw/s1600/DSC_0774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D-zYXyCh8T8/VvFlRCUlrNI/AAAAAAAAUiU/VSJXV1kABXgI1pq5p7Ndn8GF9PWiRZGjw/s400/DSC_0774.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Vespa - The Black Beauty</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvtCVByyQcwkQQURa2n4eZRpEo9OTWXjYb9513Ce9OaPpQcdQAEl1BrQBkWK-nbcMnJB-QVrNPhUNdfmaVFTJ1IKFS8EwsaOFEhRAlCoskEkvQig4NP0d8K45T8oFX_EKTIOSn35jexFl/s1600/DSC_0778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvtCVByyQcwkQQURa2n4eZRpEo9OTWXjYb9513Ce9OaPpQcdQAEl1BrQBkWK-nbcMnJB-QVrNPhUNdfmaVFTJ1IKFS8EwsaOFEhRAlCoskEkvQig4NP0d8K45T8oFX_EKTIOSn35jexFl/s400/DSC_0778.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> TVS - interestingly placed logo</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The best pavilion as per me was of Renault; however, Tata
Motors got the prize for that. Tata Pavilion was huge with #madeofgreat Soccer
Theme. Tata Commercial Vehicles had one unique concept of Electric & Hybrid
Buses with a movie running outside; it felt as if Bus is moving in the city.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hIfR6nX0BTM/VvFcomVLcpI/AAAAAAAAUhM/Xg3949LTQesa4CrPrViDeopAhzOrmrRkQ/s1600/DSC_0495_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hIfR6nX0BTM/VvFcomVLcpI/AAAAAAAAUhM/Xg3949LTQesa4CrPrViDeopAhzOrmrRkQ/s400/DSC_0495_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Renault Pavillion - one of the best pavillions</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxXb8yvd0-KFjn0zDw_cnWsrRSG9-kgWdrhbQtmZp8Bo-MBFlxgA5M4ZnEHi9ZB0VlbYO-m7RNhCF0w6S1g2DyFXM2n3oojkXECPnJo6qMToa9gnxuY8au3LxWwCKyLdoGZ8UpCfXbK2T/s1600/WP_20160209_11_59_41_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxXb8yvd0-KFjn0zDw_cnWsrRSG9-kgWdrhbQtmZp8Bo-MBFlxgA5M4ZnEHi9ZB0VlbYO-m7RNhCF0w6S1g2DyFXM2n3oojkXECPnJo6qMToa9gnxuY8au3LxWwCKyLdoGZ8UpCfXbK2T/s400/WP_20160209_11_59_41_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Indian Pavillion - unique placements</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_klP97q9wTU/VvQEt5D_YRI/AAAAAAAAUkE/2-MKKKgM23YEwQIdq-XlK6caE5HKdGzNQ/s1600/WP_20160209_11_58_38_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_klP97q9wTU/VvQEt5D_YRI/AAAAAAAAUkE/2-MKKKgM23YEwQIdq-XlK6caE5HKdGzNQ/s400/WP_20160209_11_58_38_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Triumph Pavillion - unique placements</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2U305AJ59E/VvQEmn5_KQI/AAAAAAAAUkE/-lNhSX7rroY5BnsDDwDGIC4y4HWaPg6cQ/s1600/WP_20160208_12_56_13_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2U305AJ59E/VvQEmn5_KQI/AAAAAAAAUkE/-lNhSX7rroY5BnsDDwDGIC4y4HWaPg6cQ/s400/WP_20160208_12_56_13_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Peugeot - 3-Wheeler Bike</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2WKyHY4Bac/VvQNVO-LiAI/AAAAAAAAUlA/OOgaamYPUS0saRfEwoWFEUgwKFiPDIvDA/s1600/WP_20160209_12_41_13_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2WKyHY4Bac/VvQNVO-LiAI/AAAAAAAAUlA/OOgaamYPUS0saRfEwoWFEUgwKFiPDIvDA/s400/WP_20160209_12_41_13_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Unique Car Model - made out of Mobiles</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Most rush was in Maruti-Suzuki & Chevrolet Pavilions –
Maruti had Live Jazz Performance, while Chevrolet had brought a stunning red
Corvette. Ford had bought a Mustang.</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKs6pPLWKLAc1eevVAe0btZELBbC-IX48XTJcldaFmgVZTuBH1EtEM2jjARJZ8oqmzpgbFe7pjwjBBXczN95aXL1Y30c3FC3-Zp-fUNyCFqyg3NGH4Rbzico5UnN1pVO1I6H4Nz6pjj74Q/s1600/WP_20160208_14_15_16_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKs6pPLWKLAc1eevVAe0btZELBbC-IX48XTJcldaFmgVZTuBH1EtEM2jjARJZ8oqmzpgbFe7pjwjBBXczN95aXL1Y30c3FC3-Zp-fUNyCFqyg3NGH4Rbzico5UnN1pVO1I6H4Nz6pjj74Q/s400/WP_20160208_14_15_16_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Stunning Corvette at the Chevrolet Pavillion</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Post-lunch, we returned back to our Guest House &
boarded our taxi for Agra. We took the renowned Yamuna Expressway. It starts
from Greater Noida & ends at Agra. This Expressway has made one day return
journey for Agra possible. Agra can be reached in about 3 hours non-stop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Many foreigners visit the Taj Mahal. And there being no dedicated
domestic airport at Agra, flight connectivity is very limited. Yamuna
Expressway serves as a very quick transport facility. There is a proposed Taj
International Airport which will further boost tourism in the region.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the way we visited Vrindavan. It is the place where, as
per mythology, Lord Krishna used to play in his childhood days. It is near to
Mathura, his birthplace & Gokul, where he spent his childhood. Lord Krishna
performed Raas-Leela with Radha & other Gopis in the Vrindavan forest along
with Balarama & his cowherd friends.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Banke-Bihari Temple is the main temple of Vrindavan.
However, since it was located inside the old town & it is closed in the
evening, we decided to skip this. We also had to reach Agra in time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We therefore visited other two temples, which are
comparatively recent ones & the tourist attractions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ISKCON Temple is dedicated to Krishna-Balarama, built in
1975. Alongside of Krishna-Balarama, there are Gaura-Nitai &
Radha-Shyamsundar. It is one of the main <span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">ISKCON</span> temples
in <span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">India</span> and
internationally. The architecture is beautiful with well carved arch in the
centre & similarly carved structures on both sides. The temple complex
houses a meditation hall, souvenir shop, etc.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D8pU6GOAfVY/VvFmBr-eoHI/AAAAAAAAUjw/iffLuIbFtnkesqZ35uGOgd28uNx6lfq2A/s1600/DSC_0806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D8pU6GOAfVY/VvFmBr-eoHI/AAAAAAAAUjw/iffLuIbFtnkesqZ35uGOgd28uNx6lfq2A/s400/DSC_0806.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>ISKCON Temple</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qdws28GEe9Y/VvFmBDocp9I/AAAAAAAAUig/3W8Qi3-fZr4RBzg5ovskEBjnZ9Aa2hdAQ/s1600/DSC_0810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qdws28GEe9Y/VvFmBDocp9I/AAAAAAAAUig/3W8Qi3-fZr4RBzg5ovskEBjnZ9Aa2hdAQ/s400/DSC_0810.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>ISKCON Temple - Intricate Arch at the entrance</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Prem Mandir is another such, but a huge temple complex built
at the town outskirts. It is a more recent creation, year 2012. The temple is
intricately carved in marble. The quick impression of Somnath Temple is seen in
this. It was established by Shri Kripalu Maharaj. The temple took about 11
years & approx. 150 crore Rs. for its construction. The presiding deity is
Lord Krishna-Radha & Lord Ram-Sita. A pillar-less, dome-shaped Satsang Hall
is under construction at the back-side of Temple. The best time to visit here
is in the evenings. As the Sun sets, this temple is fully lit in different
changing colors. The view looks mesmerizing. All around the complex, stories on
Lord Krishna’s life are depicted in the forms of life-size idols – Govardhan
Parvat, Raas-Leela & Kalia Mardan. There seemed to be a Musical Fountain
Show, however it didn’t start till we were inside. Not sure hence.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_fOj1OTeOfo/VvFmDmxLdtI/AAAAAAAAUig/nzEPmEx4wOgDewjiZq25McaA_IhyTq9pw/s1600/DSC_0815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_fOj1OTeOfo/VvFmDmxLdtI/AAAAAAAAUig/nzEPmEx4wOgDewjiZq25McaA_IhyTq9pw/s400/DSC_0815.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Prem Mandir</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tek3FZnGM8c/VvFu_gNJcOI/AAAAAAAAUiw/Dt8SMdA2J0Y75BQwhudnNG8dbJksc3-NQ/s1600/DSC_0817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tek3FZnGM8c/VvFu_gNJcOI/AAAAAAAAUiw/Dt8SMdA2J0Y75BQwhudnNG8dbJksc3-NQ/s400/DSC_0817.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Prem Mandir - Entrance</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYlPr_xI0XMlD0VuWOf3yayraclTStInzGnApyF742FndPQFLh1bt6f23dHjQbi_qc5H8P6lng-Eq6i0P-a0gx13LQfyS-W8X7mPd9_3tn4udraLmxEYR37i2xf_mvbe-uIpquccjqIL9/s1600/DSC_0821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYlPr_xI0XMlD0VuWOf3yayraclTStInzGnApyF742FndPQFLh1bt6f23dHjQbi_qc5H8P6lng-Eq6i0P-a0gx13LQfyS-W8X7mPd9_3tn4udraLmxEYR37i2xf_mvbe-uIpquccjqIL9/s400/DSC_0821.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Prem Mandir - Colorfully Lit at the Night</i></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here we took back to our route to Agra & reached by
9 pm. While we crossed the Grand Agra Fort, we saw the heroic equestrian statue
of Shivaji Maharaj just in front. It was an awesome feeling to see our Great
Leader honored in this distant land. After dinner, we checked-in our hotel
hoping for an awesome tomorrow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>February 10, 2015:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next day morning after a quick breakfast, we started off for the Most Photographed Structure on Earth. Taj Mahal is located on the southern bank
of River Yamuna in Agra. There are 2-3 entry gates; however the most common is
the West Gate (Fatehpuri Gate). Other two are Fatehabad Gate (East Gate) &
Siddhi Darwaza (South Gate). Fueled vehicles are not allowed till the entry
point; vehicle parking is about 200 meters prior. Battery Operated Cars or
Camel Carts are available. However, they are not really required. One can easily
walk those 200 meters.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is one caveat – if in case you hire those Battery Cars
or Camel Carts, just insist the driver to take straight to the Taj unless you
are interested in some shopping. Else, they lie to you & trick you to the
‘so-called’ Meena Bazaar for a possible shopping (which in turn earns them a
commission). Our Battery Car driver told us that now Taj Complex is closed for
an hour for cleaning & hence he took us for shopping; we in turn insisted
for taking us to the Taj instead. The Taj Complex was very well open. Taj Mahal
Complex is open throughout the day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Taj Mahal is open from Sun-rise to Sun-set every day except
Friday. It is closed on Fridays for tourists (only open for offering Namaaz).
Taj Mahal is also open at night only during Full Moon Night & 2 Nights
before & after. There is a limit to number of tourists (400) to enter, on
first-come-first-served basis.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Outside the West Gate is the ticket counter. This part of
building is called “Saheli Burj” or Tower of Friend (Female). Ticket rate for
Indians is Rs. 20 while for Foreigners is Rs. 750. After separate queues for
Indians & Foreigners, we entered the Taj Complex. The street in front is
called as the Bazaar Street lined with small cells with a verandah &
arches. Maybe, the famous Meena Bazaar used to be held here during Shahjahan’s
time. The first view of the iconic Taj is seen from here towards left. With
Fatehpuri Courtyard in foreground & a walled structure in between, Taj can
be only seen as its dome.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>The First View:</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B1Wkv83nc3u/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">What else can be the photo today than one of the #WorldsMostPhotographedMonument ? Happy #WorldPhotographyDay !!! - #TajMahal , #Agra , #UttarPradesh , #India #instalogues #itsmytravelogue #IncredibleIndia #UPNahiDekhaTohIndiaNahiDekha #UPKaGhumakkad #MonumentOfLove #TearDropOnTheCheekOfTime #UNESCOWorldHeritageSite #NikonInstaBadge @incredibleindia @uttarpradeshtourism @nikonindiaofficial</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-08-19T16:44:33+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Aug 19, 2019 at 9:44am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Roads from all three gates lead to an open rectangular
space, the Forecourt (called as Jilaukhana). This place easily takes your
attention to the mighty & huge structure, Darwaza-i-Rauza (Gate of the
Mausoleum). This is indeed a Gate worthy enough for the Gem that remains
inside. As we started to enter through this Gate, view of Taj Mahal getting
unfolded in front of our eyes, is mesmerizing. Towards the northern end of the
Complex stands The Taj Mahal with an expanse of greenery, water body and
fountains in between. The entire complex is bounded on three sides by fortified
walls while 4</span><sup style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> side is the mighty Yamuna.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b78ZucwfTTs/VvQIucD2ZFI/AAAAAAAAUks/PQqR0S6f2vE35zeYTwEX1xC2affNypS1Q/s1600/DSC_0826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b78ZucwfTTs/VvQIucD2ZFI/AAAAAAAAUks/PQqR0S6f2vE35zeYTwEX1xC2affNypS1Q/s400/DSC_0826.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The Main Gate : Darwaza-i-Rauza</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan, the 5</span><sup style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Mughal
Emperor, in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal (actual name: Arjumand Bano
Begum). Construction began in 1631, after she died & the main mausoleum was
completed by 1648. The outlying buildings were completed in 1653. 22 years, 32
million Rupees then (today’s 53 billion Rupees = 827 million US$), 20000
artisans / workers, is what it took to create this masterpiece. Ustad Ahmed
Lahauri was the chief architect for the project. Artisans were commissioned
from all over empire (including Central Asia & Iran). While bricks were
locally made, White Marble was brought from Makrana, Rajasthan. Taj is glorified
with precious and semi-precious stones brought from all over the world (Jasper
from </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Punjab</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">, Jade and Crystal from
China, Turquoise from </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tibet</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">, Lapis Lazuli from </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Afghanistan</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">,
Sapphire from </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sri Lanka</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> and Carnelian from </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Arabia</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">).
Just imagine how many animals must have been in use to move all this material –
Oxen, Elephants, Horses.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In all, twenty eight types of precious and semi-precious
stones were inlaid into the white marble. Each stone has cut to the shape,
polished & faceted to the requirement & then laid into the marble to
create the design. E.g., inside the dome, there is design of a Lotus on the
Marble Jali. These Lotus flowers are all over. Each Lotus design is of couple
of inches in dimension & it consists of 64 pieces of orange coloured
stones, precisely cut & inlaid. Amazing...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Apart from precious stones inlaid in a pattern, another attraction
is the Calligraphy. Amanat Ali Khan Shirazi was the incharge. Verses from Holy
Quran are inscribed in Arabic in Black Marble. The black marble lettering is
inlaid into white marble scroll-like borders that frame the architectural
features. It is used to decorate both the south gateway and main mausoleum.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Externally, the main structure is built on a two layers. The
1<sup>st</sup> stage of Red Stone which houses two symmetric buildings on East
& West while 2<sup>nd</sup> stage of large square plinth of Marble at the
centre. The main building is coordinated by 4 minarets at each corner. These
minarets are slightly tilted towards outer side. This is to avoid them falling
on the Main Structure in place of an earthquake. The dome is one such
attractive portion of the structure visible from a long distance & is
unique to the Taj. 4 cupolas as well as 16 Decorated Pinnacles (or Guldastas)
surround the dome. The Finial is the top-most part of the structure with the
shape of crescent moon. It is said that originally it was made of gold, but was
replaced by a copy made of bronze later. Towards the eastern side, there is a
floor tiling of the exact replica of this finial on the ground.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Taj is made of Translucent White Marble, which exhibit
different color shades at different time of the day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Inside, is one of the most peaceful areas of the Complex.
Intricate “Jali-work” catches the eye as you enter. Inner walls are also
decorated with inlaid stones, just like outer walls. There are two Cenotaphs –
one at the centre is of Mumtaz Mahal, while by her side is of Emperor Shah
Jahan’s himself. Shah Jahan’s cenotaph is the only asymmetric portion of the
whole design. The actual Tombs (or Rouza) are in a room exactly below the
respective cenotaphs (which are the exact replica of the tombs). While entering
the mausoleum, one can see the stairs going down. Entry here is closed for
general public. Dome from inner side has a design resembling the Sun with a
Brass Lamp hanging down. This lamp was gifted by Lord Curzon (Viceroy of India)
in 1900s, crafted on the lines of one such lamp in a Cairo Mosque.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Taj Mahal, indeed, is the monument of exquisite
craftsmanship. Seeing is believing that a man can create such wonder. Rabindranath
Tagore has rightly described it as “A Teardrop on the Cheek of Time”. UNESCO
describes it as the Jewel of Muslim Art in India and one of the universally
admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHn1ougBA7Bd_xaL267soeZ86mq1Exmv95SFv1b8Bwwat4DjNDvOXRNSC08aTdl5_30AB1k24NszO1lVbtEVPyP-8BVTT-njfGDV2qA3VkUc3Z-YwOe8elTIDSh_zhIIJ8dzhmOB33egUd/s1600/DSC_0830_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHn1ougBA7Bd_xaL267soeZ86mq1Exmv95SFv1b8Bwwat4DjNDvOXRNSC08aTdl5_30AB1k24NszO1lVbtEVPyP-8BVTT-njfGDV2qA3VkUc3Z-YwOe8elTIDSh_zhIIJ8dzhmOB33egUd/s400/DSC_0830_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The Cliche</i></span></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we enter through the Main Gate the Taj Mahal unfolds
itself to its most clichéd view. This is the photograph we have been seeing all
these years. After a brief photo-op, we started moving ahead. The whole area is
beautifully maintained with lined-up garden called the Chahar-Bagh or the
Paradise Garden. This is divided majorly into 4 quarters by 2 water channels
running at the centre & bisecting at right angles. Each of these quarters
is further divided into 4 more parts by Sandstone path-way. It is believed in Islam that in Paradise 4 rivers flow which represents water, milk, wine and honey. Also, garden
is filled with abundant trees, flowers and plants as in the Paradise. Ran Mal
was the original Garden Designer from Kashmir. The gardens what we see today
are the renovated version by the British.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7YQXFHAdII/VvQJI_X_jqI/AAAAAAAAUkU/zyPQwu6gdzwBJQGsMSTyyDPr4Hov5tIDg/s1600/DSC_0852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7YQXFHAdII/VvQJI_X_jqI/AAAAAAAAUkU/zyPQwu6gdzwBJQGsMSTyyDPr4Hov5tIDg/s400/DSC_0852.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Another view - Mehman-khana towards left</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Centre of the Garden where two water channels intersect is
the Celestial Pool of Abundance (or Al-Kawathar). The image of the Taj Mahal is
perfectly reflected in this water tank. The famous Diana Bench or the Lady Di’s
Chair is here. It was made famous in 1992 when Lady Diana was photographed as
she visited Taj Mahal on Official State Visit. Aishwarya Rai’s such photograph
here was also well acclaimed. Everyone visiting Taj whether a Celebrity, State
Head or a Commoner gets himself photographed sitting / standing here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Visitors are not allowed to enter the Garden as well as
inside water body. They have to follow the well-laid pathway only. After a
brief wandering around, we reached till the Taj Mahal platform. On the extreme
right are the steps to reach the 1<sup>st</sup> stage of Red Stone platform. As
mentioned earlier, there are two symmetrical buildings on either side. The one
at East is the Mehman-khana (Assembly Hall) actually built to strike a balance
of symmetry against the Mosque at the West. Its original function was to
accommodate visitors for observing the death anniversaries of Mumtaz. On the West
is the Mosque, built again in Red Stone with white domes. As per Islam, a
Mausoleum has to have a Mosque to offer prayers. There is an Ablution Tank between
the Mosque & Taj Mahal which people use to wash before offering prayers.</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bnbk9LAHxgf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bnbk9LAHxgf/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">This is the monument of exquisite craftsmanship. A teardrop on the cheek of time. Jewel of Muslim Art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage. #itsmytravelogue #wondersoftheworld #teardroponthecheekoftime #mausoleum #marblemonument #mustvisitmustsee #mustvisitplace #unescoworldheritagesite #mughalarchitecture #monumentoflove #instalogues</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-09-07T16:03:02+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 7, 2018 at 9:03am PDT</time></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fjpFm0rTTkrAJOybMpdVeTXlh1dkgOMupdVr8ufS3vbk8L6WGDeK9vh0I7y_OlL_woCWay68gTCvuV5DKRCbetUP9W04UBahUsSp0Nx7cSuIflCv3x9TPk9cU4v6_Ip2DHaFHaDBKS4Y/s1600/DSC_0868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3fjpFm0rTTkrAJOybMpdVeTXlh1dkgOMupdVr8ufS3vbk8L6WGDeK9vh0I7y_OlL_woCWay68gTCvuV5DKRCbetUP9W04UBahUsSp0Nx7cSuIflCv3x9TPk9cU4v6_Ip2DHaFHaDBKS4Y/s400/DSC_0868.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The </i></span></b><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Corridor - </i></span></b><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Mehman-khana</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The Mosque</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before climbing up the 2</span><sup style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">nd</sup><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> stage of Marble
Patform, wearing Shoe-covers are compulsory. Plastic (use-&-throw) covers
are available outside for 10-20 Rs.; while re-usable cloth covers are available
here free-of-cost. Once inside the Mausoleum near Cenotaphs, photography is
prohibited.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Another View</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Opposite bank of River Yamuna is the Mehtaab Bagh (or the
Moonlit Garden). Taj Mahal from here looks completely different than the
routine view. Reaching Mehtaab Bagh is about 11 kms drive from here. There’s a
myth that the black stones seen near Mehtaab Bagh are the ruins of construction
of Black Taj Mahal, which Shah Jahan wanted to construct as his own Tomb (out
of Black Marble).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After capturing the beauty of this Most Beautiful Wonder of
the World, we turned around. There is a Taj Museum in the Complex. It is at the
left had side from Celestial Pool of Abundance. It describes the complete
history of Taj Mahal & its story.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Guides are available outside at the cost of as low as Rs.
200. Actually taking a Guide along is useful, however since we had very limited
time and we had to rush back to Delhi to catch evening flight, we didn’t hired
one.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By 11.30 am, we started our return journey. We reached Delhi
Airport for our return flight & reached home at 9 pm.</span></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com3Taj Mahal, Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India27.1750151 78.042155200000025-25.5370629 -4.5750322999999753 79.8870931 160.65934270000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-87862466857896572252015-12-19T21:46:00.000+05:302019-09-18T19:49:26.405+05:30Karizmatic Kerala – Paradise Down Under - December 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This year seems to be most travelled – first to the Northernmost
part of India, Kashmir & then the Southern tip (well, almost), Kerala. If
one is the “<a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2015/07/vaishno-devi-calling-mata-kaa-bulawa.html" target="_blank">Paradise On Earth</a>”, then the other is no less, especially Munnar. That's why it is very rightfully referred as God's Own Country.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had planned this trip almost a year in advance. We
finalized & did our ticketing 4 months ahead. Various options were on cards
– rarely known North Kerala & the South Kerala combo with Kanyakumari. We
finally decided for a more common Golden Quadrilateral of Central Kerala:
Cochin – Munnar – Thekkady – Kumarakom / Alleppy (Alappuzha).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We boarded our train, Pune – Ernakulam Poorna Express
(11097) on the night of December 19, 2015. The train passes through the
Doodhsagar Falls (in Karnataka) next morning. This is the one famous Falls
which features in the movie “Chennai Express”. We selected this train for the
same reason.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>December 21, 2015:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the 3<sup>rd</sup> day early morning at 3, we reached
Ernakulam Junction (25 minutes before time). Ernakulam is actually part of mainland
portion of the city of Cochin. Both are in a way, twin cities. We had booked a
Tempo Traveler for our further tour. We started for our onward journey by 4.30
am. Munnar is about 120 kms from Cochin / Ernakulam.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The initial part of the trip travels through the main Cochin
city, then the more urban area & finally entering into the twisting &
turning roads within lush green hills. Enroute is a 4 layered Cheeyappara
Waterfalls about 70 kms in the journey. After a tiring start to the day
(uncomfortable sleep in train, waking-up early morning, not enough breakfast),
this breathtaking Falls was a nice change. The waterfall is just by the road
side & cannot be missed. Just a kilometer ahead is another Water Fall –
Valera Falls. It is, however, on the other side of hill & has to be viewed
through a distance.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tiFToRROfSA/V8vqjL4h7cI/AAAAAAAAVKs/VzFU7fOo-TEXGEPTQ5xpW8QJrdG69N-3ACPcB/s1600/DSC_0002_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tiFToRROfSA/V8vqjL4h7cI/AAAAAAAAVKs/VzFU7fOo-TEXGEPTQ5xpW8QJrdG69N-3ACPcB/s400/DSC_0002_1.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cheeyappara Waterfalls</span></i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Within a couple of hours, I woke to the view of Tea
Plantations, a signature that we were finally in Munnar. One can view these
Plantations till the eye reaches the horizon. After a brief photo-stop on the road,
we reached our hotel at 10 am – Hotel Munnar – Terrace Greens.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8YSduipsqnc/V8vqjLxaQyI/AAAAAAAAVKs/uNdMpgl_eDAwAPhjpjAwdKfCTEexssmjgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8YSduipsqnc/V8vqjLxaQyI/AAAAAAAAVKs/uNdMpgl_eDAwAPhjpjAwdKfCTEexssmjgCPcB/s400/DSC_0025.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Munnar</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Munnar is one such scenic location which has a mix of
natural landscapes with man-made Tea Plantations. This combination makes up the
beauty. Visiting here & looking around, there was a feeling as if the view
here is no less than what I saw in Kashmir 6 months ago; except the snow was
missing on mountain ranges far away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After some rest in the afternoon, we decided go out for some
adventure. Our driver suggested one such place – Kolukkumalai. It is one of the
best places to visit, if in Munnar. Kulukkumalai Top is the highest point in
the whole of South India. It is home to the highest tea plantations in the
world; with the tea grown here possessing a special flavour and freshness
because of the high altitude. It is situated on the border of Kerala &
Tamil Nadu (when on top, one side is Kerala while the other is TN). It is about
40 kms from Munnar main town. The road is a completely Kuttcha & has to be
accessed through the 4x4 Jeeps only. It costs about Rs. 1500 for a return
journey of Jeep (carries about 8-10 adults). </span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bmn8jvLFlQ9/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Kulukkumalai Top is the highest point in South India. It is home to the highest tea plantations in the world; with the tea grown here possessing a special flavour and freshness because of the high altitude. It is situated on the border of Kerala & Tamil Nadu, about 40 kms from Munnar. #itsmytravelogue #placestoseebeforeyoudie #mustvisit #kerala #godsowncountry #kolukkumalai #sunset #teaplantations #instalogues</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-08-18T14:48:46+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Aug 18, 2018 at 7:48am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The experience & adventure is awesome. Passing through the bumpy ride watching the abundance of Munnar Magical Beauty was heavenly. Few water falls on the way were icing on the cake. As we started nearing the top, we could feel the Clouds around us. It was extremely chilly on the top. After watching a peaceful Sun-Set, we started for our return journey back to our hotel. Kolukkumalai for me was definitely a place to visit atleast once in lifetime.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zrtqx1YD18k/V8vqjF-PG4I/AAAAAAAAVKs/QjtWpxqqGvAn8CDKeOYPtZeUvtADs_q8ACPcB/s1600/DSC_0102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zrtqx1YD18k/V8vqjF-PG4I/AAAAAAAAVKs/QjtWpxqqGvAn8CDKeOYPtZeUvtADs_q8ACPcB/s400/DSC_0102.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If travelling through Packaged (Group) Tours, this place is
missed / not covered in their itinerary. Ensure you add it up & make sure
you won’t miss it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>December 22, 2015:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started for our Munnar sight-seeing in the morning. Our
first destination was Mattupetty Dam. It is located just outside the main town
& has beautiful reservoir & water catchment area. The dam is built
mainly for Hydroelectric power generation. By the side is a market for local
goods, foods & spices. Just ahead of the dam along its reservoir is the
Echo Point. It is actually a spot by the water. Boating facilities are
available. The whole area is often visited by wild Elephants. Vehicular traffic
is not allowed after sun-set here.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fHJlqZOLlNc/V8vqjFIakRI/AAAAAAAAVKs/MGD1eeltdKUKXAbHwTzoLuIUTJBNjWEHwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fHJlqZOLlNc/V8vqjFIakRI/AAAAAAAAVKs/MGD1eeltdKUKXAbHwTzoLuIUTJBNjWEHwCPcB/s400/DSC_0110.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Mattupetty Dam</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We did some Elephant Rides on the way. It is fun, especially
for kids. We normally don’t get this experience. Apart from regular rides there
are some more activities (feeding elephants with fruits, rain shower).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After having stomach full Kerala Meals at Saravana Bhavan,
we went for a Kathakali & Kalaripayatu Show. Kerala, being a tourist place,
there many such Cultural Centers all over. They showcase their traditional
forms of art. They are surely worth a visit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kathakali is an Indian Classical Dance form of Kerala. Its
genre is Story-Play; even the name is broken down in Sanskrit as Katha (Story)
and Kala (Art). The distinctiveness of this art form is the colorful dressing,
elaborate make-up & characteristic face-mask. The dance constitutes hand
& facial gestures (Mudras & Navarasas). It is traditionally performed
by male artists (even the female roles are performed by men). However,
nowadays, women too take part in Kathakali performance. It is traditionally
structured around mythological stories of Ramayana, Mahabharata &
Bhagavat-purana.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47d7YDElv4khJxtPcgp9fZqkEdBuZy0EHGfXL2CD_6SiXiRdU2IVd1JObdZOOgDkFq585aHXeiDLN3KJKCMxqQwpV1cl4Vryi7bT5aTVmYxPtdO6TnSo-Cc8Xops3Y2T60x08f5EWuLGO/s1600/DSC_0177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47d7YDElv4khJxtPcgp9fZqkEdBuZy0EHGfXL2CD_6SiXiRdU2IVd1JObdZOOgDkFq585aHXeiDLN3KJKCMxqQwpV1cl4Vryi7bT5aTVmYxPtdO6TnSo-Cc8Xops3Y2T60x08f5EWuLGO/s400/DSC_0177.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Kathakali show consists of atleast 2 artists (one doing
a female role), a Sutra-dhar (or story-teller) & musicians. Many hours
before actual show timings, artists are busy preparing themselves their
make-up. The show starts with explanation of all Mudras & Navarasas. Then
the actual story starts. In the end they offer the patrons to take a photo with
the artists. The show is definitely fascinating.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Further we waited for another master piece of Kerala –
Kalaripayattu. It is one of the oldest forms of Martial Art using techniques
& styles from Yoga, finger movements & dance. It is fought empty handed
as well as with weapons (swords, spears, knifes, etc.). The show consists of
individual performances as well as one-is-to-one & multiple combats. This
show was entertaining.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4d3DWh9GwuM/V8vqjOd_GlI/AAAAAAAAVKs/pCbi294V0B0jNYmNHZrxpRV8QNQT1MM9gCPcB/s1600/DSC_0218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4d3DWh9GwuM/V8vqjOd_GlI/AAAAAAAAVKs/pCbi294V0B0jNYmNHZrxpRV8QNQT1MM9gCPcB/s400/DSC_0218.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NH6I7nMhl6Q/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NH6I7nMhl6Q?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our next plan was for Periyar Tiger Reserve. However,
reaching here we came to know there is an Online Booking that is required.
Visiting directly can be problematic if bookings get full.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>December 23, 2015:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We checked-out from our Hotel and started for Thekkady. We
saw couple of wild elephants grazing far away on top.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the way breaked at Spice Garden. There are many Spice
Gardens in part of India. The climate & soil being conducive to spices,
locals have developed their lands into Spice Gardens to attract tourists. They
conduct a guided tour where they take you around the garden; they show &
explain various spice plantations & their uses. The tour ends at the Spice
Shop which sells all those spices & ayurvedic medicines & oils. All
this has an entry fee of about Rs. 100 per person.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I felt that these Spice Gardens are good to have a break
& roam around. However, there is no need to buy spices from here; they are
available in towns at much cheaper rates. Ayurvedic Medicines can be purchased
as per requirement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached Thekkady in the afternoon. Thekkady is an
important tourist place because of its proximity to Periyar Tiger Reserve. It
is also an heaven for Spices (Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Cardamom, Clove, etc.).
After a brief rest we ventured out for some Spices Shopping.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>December 24, 2015:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the morning, we started for the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It
is just 3 kms from Thekkady. After a check-point clearance, we entered inside.
Vehicles are allowed to a point after which there is a walk of about 300-400
meters in the dense forest with tall trees.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Periyar Tiger Reserve (or National Park or Wildlife
Sanctuary) surrounds the Periyar Lake, which was formed when Mullaperiyar Dam
was constructed in 1895. In other Wildlife Sanctuaries, normally Safaris are
conducted in vehicles (open Jeeps or mini-buses). This is unique in a way,
Safaris here happen in boats. The driver & the attendant show if any of the
animals are visible nearby. The area is a known Tiger Reserve & Elephant
Reserve; however, you need to be really lucky to see them here. And obviously
so, these are the special species & one should not expect them to be so
easily visible on a pleasure trip of one hour. Many species of birds are seen.
We were able to see the Sambars, Monkeys.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O-c2cI6P3VY/V8vqjPqp49I/AAAAAAAAVKs/zDFMbHUgEUAMK1zPeU603UeP9hNamXeNACPcB/s1600/DSC_0266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O-c2cI6P3VY/V8vqjPqp49I/AAAAAAAAVKs/zDFMbHUgEUAMK1zPeU603UeP9hNamXeNACPcB/s400/DSC_0266.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XlEbVk8mSoE/V8vqjExD8DI/AAAAAAAAVKs/6iVQREjznxQxoN-likEBZ36OLRc5jpQCQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XlEbVk8mSoE/V8vqjExD8DI/AAAAAAAAVKs/6iVQREjznxQxoN-likEBZ36OLRc5jpQCQCPcB/s400/DSC_0275.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This one hour of boat ride was a different experience. I am
not sure where else you can roam around a Wildlife Sanctuary in a boat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here we started for Kumarakom. On the way, we hopped in
for a Tea Factory visit – Harrison Malayalam Ltd. Unfortunately, the factory
had a weekly off on Wednesday. Hence the tea processing was not in progress.
One of the employees accompanied us & showed us the processes through the
silent machines. In the end, we had some purchase of tea at their Factory Shop.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R-pIp8DriDM/V8vqjEaovSI/AAAAAAAAVKs/UMwVjxQGlgggi2ezzxx2JlzldLdD5_JXgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R-pIp8DriDM/V8vqjEaovSI/AAAAAAAAVKs/UMwVjxQGlgggi2ezzxx2JlzldLdD5_JXgCPcB/s400/DSC_0319.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached our hotel in Kumarakom late evening by 8 pm. The
facility so far was the best in the journey. In the darkness of the night, we
were not aware about the location; but as we came out of our rooms in the
morning, we were just by the side of Vembanad Lake. The view was awe-inspiring.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>December 25, 2015:</b></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sK8h0APkxrs/V8vqjC93N1I/AAAAAAAAVKs/EU-x_5qj80sTBGC_FCZx6TEvpDIqn4ihQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sK8h0APkxrs/V8vqjC93N1I/AAAAAAAAVKs/EU-x_5qj80sTBGC_FCZx6TEvpDIqn4ihQCPcB/s400/DSC_0334.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sunrise - Vembanad Lake</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Vembanad Lake is the longest lake in India (with 96.5 kms in
length). It is also among one of the largest lakes in India. It is situated
almost at the Sea Level, with some of its part below the MSL (Mean Sea Level).
It is separated from Arabian Sea by a narrow barrier island. The lake is fed
with 10 rivers and there is an intricate network of canals & lagoons. There
are number of villages in & around this Wetland System. These are connected
through this water network forming another Venice of East in India (</span><a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2015/07/vaishno-devi-calling-mata-kaa-bulawa.html" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">another being at Srinagar</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">).</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPH9wNZSDyhQjx1GfF5j8acVEIbcBpMHG12iDReDSwr_Y9N1vetoBaOHVNgBWbws3wj_VBUgkbZEPxwiMPyMnDrZcx4MZ4oTurygmxj8XOc0hkKO86o-I_a12aRW6LIqbffdzy7J8v85h/s1600/DSC_0422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPH9wNZSDyhQjx1GfF5j8acVEIbcBpMHG12iDReDSwr_Y9N1vetoBaOHVNgBWbws3wj_VBUgkbZEPxwiMPyMnDrZcx4MZ4oTurygmxj8XOc0hkKO86o-I_a12aRW6LIqbffdzy7J8v85h/s400/DSC_0422.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jbm2T40H9vQ/V8vqjHQPYqI/AAAAAAAAVKs/4t3qATJLGlw6rVQ_BWmh6_7sTFp3-42ZQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jbm2T40H9vQ/V8vqjHQPYqI/AAAAAAAAVKs/4t3qATJLGlw6rVQ_BWmh6_7sTFp3-42ZQCPcB/s400/DSC_0449.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Network of Canals & Lagoons</span></i></td></tr>
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</a> <br />
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B2RqMD3n9EP/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Warm wishes on this auspicious occasion of #Onam . #HappyOnam2019 #KeralaBackwaters is one of the highlights of #Kerala . Known as #VeniceOfTheEast , this intricate network of canals and lagoons is the lifeline of Kerala. There are number of villages in & around this Wetland System. Kerala Backwaters is such an attraction which makes this place one of the most sought after tourist destinations. #IncredibleIndia #instalogues #itsmytravelogue #GodsOwnCountry #NikonInstaBadge #KeralaTourism #HumanByNature @keralatourism @incredibleindia @nikonindiaofficial @nikonphotocontest</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Kaustubh Bhogale</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2019-09-11T15:27:16+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 11, 2019 at 8:27am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Unique feature of this lake is the mixture of Fresh water
from rivers & Salt water from seas. Based on tidal action, the salt water
mixes up increasing the salinity & water level of lake during some parts of
the year. At other times, majority of it is a Fresh Water Lake. This ecosystem
has facilitated breeding of some special aquatic species in the lake.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jrfIkalgQSg/V8vqjHdvn7I/AAAAAAAAVKs/kT4jpMXr-BQpJOhWu5dTFpsPjlG1qSdwwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jrfIkalgQSg/V8vqjHdvn7I/AAAAAAAAVKs/kT4jpMXr-BQpJOhWu5dTFpsPjlG1qSdwwCPcB/s400/DSC_0383.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Backwaters</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Src4H5RP-c/V8vqjI6QdAI/AAAAAAAAVKs/tQ1ODqcZnhEAwbxqcrtQxC8lYJQYTiHkACPcB/s1600/DSC_0395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Src4H5RP-c/V8vqjI6QdAI/AAAAAAAAVKs/tQ1ODqcZnhEAwbxqcrtQxC8lYJQYTiHkACPcB/s400/DSC_0395.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkl5NVXe0oem_y3wc9DsINHY8MbPIR02RvV88FyE7P6n2byYS3-uTlwR6zfWlisoGecT8-p21fUjJpIUChKmjy9mKojEUyf094f01cLjGb5RpjRkZ9h_SK7B7BWigu8W7fyChKiSS0e1k/s1600/DSC_0399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkl5NVXe0oem_y3wc9DsINHY8MbPIR02RvV88FyE7P6n2byYS3-uTlwR6zfWlisoGecT8-p21fUjJpIUChKmjy9mKojEUyf094f01cLjGb5RpjRkZ9h_SK7B7BWigu8W7fyChKiSS0e1k/s400/DSC_0399.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Duck Farming</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are options of a stay in House Boat. The House Boat
roams around the lake, its canals & back-waters for the whole day with halt
at some point in the night. We however, decided to stay in a hotel & take a
small ride of couple of hours in a boat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is one Museum based on Fossils & Archeological
Discoveries in Kumarakom. But when we visited, it was closed because of
Christmas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By afternoon, we left Kumarakom & reached Cochin (Kochi)
by 3 pm. We decided to visit few sight-seeing’s of Cochin. We reached the St. Francis
Church at Fort Kochi. Fort Kochi, by the way, is the region in Kochi one of the
old areas by the sea-shore.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YbAjs4hH7WY/V8vqjJIvtmI/AAAAAAAAVKs/ct86N7jYU4kYn7dsrSYkBiguE_GRdsgmACPcB/s1600/DSC_0464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YbAjs4hH7WY/V8vqjJIvtmI/AAAAAAAAVKs/ct86N7jYU4kYn7dsrSYkBiguE_GRdsgmACPcB/s400/DSC_0464.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">St. Francis Church</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">St. Francis Church is the oldest Church in India – built in
1503. It was famous for one more reason. Vasco Da Gama died here in 1524; even
his body was buried in this Church. The remains were then carried back to Lisbon
14 years later. His Grave is still preserved inside the Church, apart from
graves of other Portuguese. The area around the Church is a local street market.
There is one play garden for kids & a walk-way by the sea-shore. The renowned
Chinese Fishing Nets can be seen lined-up by the shore.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7uGfmVu91I/V8vqjLI2v2I/AAAAAAAAVKs/BuAGu43jdgQlc39hpGEbMywmWZI7XeXXgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7uGfmVu91I/V8vqjLI2v2I/AAAAAAAAVKs/BuAGu43jdgQlc39hpGEbMywmWZI7XeXXgCPcB/s400/DSC_0466.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chinese Fishing Nets</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here we went to a place which we though we would hush-up in few minutes, but ended up in spending some quality time in admiration - Kerala Folklore Musuem. It has an exceptional collection of Art & Artefacts. Mostly focussed towards South India Culture. The artefacts range from Weapons, Utensils, Dresses, Idols, Props of various Dance Forms, Paintings, Photographs, masks, etc. Rs. 100 ticket is worth every penny. And more so that the Museum is not any Govt. Enterprise, but run individually by one, Mr. George.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMJM9SfBgC4/V8vqjK3zLiI/AAAAAAAAVKs/Im63yR2USTwD9-y2a6b4Ingxz5a9E8TkwCPcB/s1600/WP_20151225_17_41_58_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMJM9SfBgC4/V8vqjK3zLiI/AAAAAAAAVKs/Im63yR2USTwD9-y2a6b4Ingxz5a9E8TkwCPcB/s400/WP_20151225_17_41_58_Pro.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Folklore Museum</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We decided to spend the evening shopping in the market. However, being Chirstmas, the market was absolutely closed. We just, therefore, roamed on Marine Drive - the most happening place of Kochi. This promenade is an ideal place to spend some "self" time. Vast Arabian Sea on one side, modern malls & shopping complexes on other & the street vendors lined-up along. We spent about an hour here roaming.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WBbvcETETcc/V8vqjMnar2I/AAAAAAAAVKs/_MFwiOxqgaQJxdlmpTU8S1tRbMCqKY19ACPcB/s1600/WP_20151225_18_30_40_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WBbvcETETcc/V8vqjMnar2I/AAAAAAAAVKs/_MFwiOxqgaQJxdlmpTU8S1tRbMCqKY19ACPcB/s400/WP_20151225_18_30_40_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Arabian Sea - view from Marine Drive</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Further we checked-in our hotel for a final night of our trip.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>December 26, 2015:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">we had an evening flight. So we decided to munch another local place about 10 kms from our hotel - Hill Palace.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9CnOuYUNBkM/V8vqjLlKyNI/AAAAAAAAVKs/74kbxyjd5Q8JbiIKjbE0hEXXvV0UZpaQQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9CnOuYUNBkM/V8vqjLlKyNI/AAAAAAAAVKs/74kbxyjd5Q8JbiIKjbE0hEXXvV0UZpaQQCPcB/s400/DSC_0469.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pQ1PNQK-VEg/V8vqjOD7teI/AAAAAAAAVKs/SFrNygQzW7A7It-los7jEPZ10lFYeqsRgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pQ1PNQK-VEg/V8vqjOD7teI/AAAAAAAAVKs/SFrNygQzW7A7It-los7jEPZ10lFYeqsRgCPcB/s400/DSC_0475.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hill Palace is another Archeological Museum managed by Govt. of Kerala. Originally it was built in 1865 by Maharaja of Cochin. Apart from Museum, it houses a Kids Park & Deer Park. It is built on a hillock which can be accessed by walk-way as well as simple steps. Vehicles are not allowed till top.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bgse7LiBVe4/V8vqjH-b6pI/AAAAAAAAVKs/K4WOoOCeJlc_KSAsJd9vgPH7duGr3mGDwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0474_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bgse7LiBVe4/V8vqjH-b6pI/AAAAAAAAVKs/K4WOoOCeJlc_KSAsJd9vgPH7duGr3mGDwCPcB/s400/DSC_0474_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Deer Park</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here we bid farewell to the God's Own Country & proceeded for our return journey.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Stay Details:</b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Kerala, India10.8505159 76.2710832999999876.8573059 71.10750929999999 14.843725899999999 81.434657299999984tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-931993190687593342015-07-26T22:06:00.000+05:302016-09-25T14:06:02.771+05:30Vaishno Devi Calling - Mata Kaa Bulawa - July 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">“Agar
firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast (If
there is Heaven on Earth, It’s here, it’s here, it’s here)”. These are the
words of Persian Poet Aamir Khusru explaining what Kashmir is all about.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">We
company friends (4 of us) decided to visit Vaishno Devi. It was Kiran’s idea and
a wish, which we three also realized & decided to take it up. Then Srinagar
was planned as well for 2 days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Plan
was made 3 months in advance & train tickets were booked immediately. We
had booked return tickets for Pune – Jammu Tawi Jhelum Express (11077 / 11078).
Stay arrangement at Srinagar were made at Privilege Guest House through one
acquaintance. Stay at Katra (base town for Vaishnodevi) was not planned; it was
decided to directly reach Katra & look for stay. Since the time of July was
supposed to be the off-season in that region, it was expected that there would
be no rush.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Prelude
to our trip was filled with some negative news all around. Due to fire at
Itarasi Signal Control Station on 23<sup>rd</sup> June 2015, many trains were
getting cancelled including Jhelum Express. During last 10 days of our
journey, Jhelum was running only alternate days. One week before our departure,
there were heavy rains near Sonamarg & a cloud-burst. Jammu-Srinagar Highway
(NH-1) was closed due to land-slides. There was some news about agitation in Srinagar as well. We started making alternate train
reservations. We had made about 3 more reservations, in case our train
gets cancelled or NH-1 is closed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-style: normal;">Finally,
we got a confirmation 2 days prior that our train will be running. At last we
boarded Jhelum Express (11077) on 18-Jun-15 evening from Pune Station. After
covering one of the longest train journeys in </span><span style="background: white; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-style: normal;">India – 38 hours for about 2000 kms – we reached Jammu<span style="color: #2b2b2b;"> in the morning of 20-Jun-15 at 11.15 am (late by 1:15 hours).<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Katra
is a place about 40 kms from Jammu by road. It’s a small town but an important one
because of it being the base camp for Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage – 2<sup>nd</sup>
most visited temple in India after Tirupati. Vaishno Devi is one of the holiest
pilgrimages for Hindus. Vaishno Devi Temple has been recreated at two places –
a <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2012/09/vaishno-devi-in-pune-september-2-2012.html" target="_blank">smaller one at Pimpri (near Pune)</a> while a <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2012/10/indore-trip-down-memory-laneoctober-2012.html" target="_blank">much larger one at Indore</a>. After
seeing both, it was my chance to see the original.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Katra
is very well connected with Jammu – Private Buses, Taxis ply regularly from
Jammu Railway Station. And, now Katra can be visited by train as well.
Jammu-Katra is on the ambitious Kashmir Railway Project which India has
undertaken. Under this project, Kashmir Valley will be connected to India
through Railway (fully operational hopefully by 2020) which was so far not
possible due to the terrain. Technological advancements will now make this
possible to lay railway tracks from Jammu till Baramulla via Srinagar. Just one
leg of this project is yet to be completed – Katra-Banihal. Other 3 legs are
ready & being used – Jammu-Udhampur, Udhampur-Katra &
Banihal-Baramulla.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><b><u>July
20, 2015</u>:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">When
we reached Jammu at 11.15 am, we came to know there is a passenger train (DMU)
at 12 noon for Katra. We decided to undertake this train journey, as this was
newly launched service (PM Modi inaugurated Udhampur-Katra Railway Service in
July 2014). We caught up the DMU amidst heavy rush. The train takes about 2
hours to reach Katra. By road it is about 1 hour as the train goes by the
longer route via Udhampur
(Jammu-Baljata-Sangar-Manwal-Ramnagar-Udhampur-Katra).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">The
route is excellent. Tracks cut through the mountains with Tawi River by the
side is awesome. After 56 bridges (read it somewhere, I didn’t count) & 30
tunnels (I counted these), we reached Katra at 2 pm. Katra Railway Station (or
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra – SMVD Katra as it is named) can be the Model
Railway Station in the country. In first instance, it seems to be an Airport.
Clean Platforms, Clean Tracks, Wide Walkways, Cool Entrance, Green Lawns, Solar
Panels over the shades, an Escalator (though it is not yet functioning) – all
these are too good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eqfvr2Kbkus/VhEfOZEchpI/AAAAAAAAT_8/UQie8zmDblk/s1600/WP_20150720_14_18_32_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eqfvr2Kbkus/VhEfOZEchpI/AAAAAAAAT_8/UQie8zmDblk/s400/WP_20150720_14_18_32_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Katra Railway Station</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Outside
the Station, there are these Hotel Agents. You need to fix-up a price and they
provide Pick-up to the Hotel, take you to the Vaishno Devi Starting Point, Pick
you up from Vaishno Devi back to Hotel & finally drop you from Hotel to
Railway Station or Bus Stand. All this inclusive in the Hotel price. We
finalized one at Rs. 1500 for an AC Room for 3 beds (suitable for 4 people) –
Hotel Nest, near Jiji Chowk, Katra (Phone No: 9858575372, 9906331858,
9103331858). It’s a decent hotel, nice rooms, with clean toilets. Immediately
we rushed for a lunch at a mess just opposite. Then had a nice bath after 2
day train journey & got ready to 5 pm to move for our Vaishno Devi Darshan.
The hotel guy took us first at the Registration Point to prepare an access card.
Each pilgrim has to be personally present for this. A photo is captured while
registration & an access card is provided. Also it is better to carry
another Photo ID proof along.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fVLJ3X3bzmo/VhEfq2BE8_I/AAAAAAAAUAE/Czz_r9--9LY/s1600/WP_20150720_17_00_32_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fVLJ3X3bzmo/VhEfq2BE8_I/AAAAAAAAUAE/Czz_r9--9LY/s320/WP_20150720_17_00_32_Pro.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Access Card</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">One
caveat – please do not carry any additional belongings. No food & water is
required. Better to carry separate cash instead of Wallet & Cards. Camera
& related equipment can be carried depending upon your load taking ability.
Remember you need to walk an ascent of about 12 kms (normally takes about 4
hours). Mobile can be carried as it has become a necessity nowadays. Free
Lockers are available above and those are quite spacious. All the belongings
can be kept in those. Any leather items are not allowed inside the cave
(Wallet, Belts, Watch, etc). Importantly, if possible, an extra Top or T-shirt
should be taken. It will be useful to change in case the one you are wearing
gets wet. We hadn’t taken one & while returning in the night, it was chilling
out there & my shirt was wet due to rains while climbing up.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">After
getting our access cards, we moved towards the base entrance and started our
walk at 5.30 pm. We purchased the “Jai Mata Di” head-bands & a walking
stick. Ensure take a visiting card of that shop. You can return back those
walking sticks & get back half the money. Sticks costs for Rs. 10 & 20 depending on the size & type.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">One
can either walk or hire a Horse, or a Doli. Pitthus are available to carry the
luggage or small kids & babies. Rate card is available. Nowadays Helicopter
service is also available during day-time. Ponies cost Rs. 700, Dolis cost Rs.
4000 (both-ways) while helicopter service costs Rs. 1039 (one-way). Helicopter
service is from Katra to Sanjhichat which is about 2.5 kms from Bhawan (which
houses Main Cave).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2AF_yM2TWjNbAgISzgo34Z-p5JpGJX2sOtVR00pNulmehdQQYHPqW_QbWMvuzYyg2YvAStrjJMS_l1UNbiziyBr_gJMhuXrFmW0Uf2iV0u9saWBWgkIsQHuzvGk6agQIV_Ntd589LhIPK/s1600/WP_20150720_17_20_59_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2AF_yM2TWjNbAgISzgo34Z-p5JpGJX2sOtVR00pNulmehdQQYHPqW_QbWMvuzYyg2YvAStrjJMS_l1UNbiziyBr_gJMhuXrFmW0Uf2iV0u9saWBWgkIsQHuzvGk6agQIV_Ntd589LhIPK/s400/WP_20150720_17_20_59_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yatra starts from here</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">The
walk-way is nicely made-up of well-laid blocks. Most of it is shaded; with work
still going on. Initial 3-4 kms are fully lined-up with shops & hotels on
both sides. Impression of Gulshan Kumar can be seen on these shops with his
photos & the T-Series name & brand still displayed. Gulshan Kumar is
said to have contributed immensely in development of this area. In between,
steps are also there which actually act as a short-cut to the walk-way;
however, climbing these is tiresome & those are not recommended for aged
& those suffering from BP & heart diseases.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Shri
Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has provided excellent amenities all along –
First Aid Centers, Drinking Water, Snacks Centre, Washrooms, Sitting Areas.
Security Check-points are also there in between. The Shrine Board has done a
commendable job in preparing & maintaining the route. Same must have been
since last 15-20 years. Earlier, the route actually was a small path cut
through the hill; even riding on a horse was frightening. Watch the song “Mata
Ne Bulaya Hai” from Hindi Classic movie “Avatar”; it shows how the pilgrimage
was in 1980s.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Vaishno
Devi yatra, they say, happens only if there is a Call from the Goddess (Maa Kaa
Bulawa).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Vaishno
Devi is actually the natural rock formations – 3 Pindis (Maha-Saraswati, Maha- Laxmi
& Maha-Kali) inside a Cave. Bhavan is the place, the congregation of buildings,
which houses this Cave. Bhavan is about 12 kms from starting point at Katra.
Mid-way at about 5/6 kms, the route separates out into two – one through Adhkuwari
and another through Himkoti. The one through Himkoti is 1 km shorter. Horses go
by Adhkuwari route. Adhkuwari is the half-way to the yatra to the Main Cave. It
is about 6 kms from Katra.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0CmkHpyLGpM/VhEf6nTjcoI/AAAAAAAAUAU/1tUT4vVaeMs/s1600/WP_20150720_21_07_16_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0CmkHpyLGpM/VhEf6nTjcoI/AAAAAAAAUAU/1tUT4vVaeMs/s400/WP_20150720_21_07_16_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The bright lights at the centre is the "Bhawan"</span></i></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OxGLQRGxXeU/VhEgNA9nZ7I/AAAAAAAAUAc/Jp9vAqDggAU/s1600/WP_20150721_01_13_44_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OxGLQRGxXeU/VhEgNA9nZ7I/AAAAAAAAUAc/Jp9vAqDggAU/s400/WP_20150721_01_13_44_Pro.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Katra town as seen from top<br />- bright lights at the centre is the Railway Station</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We
took the Himkoti route. This seems to be newly constructed route. This becomes much
simpler if you are walking; because, there are no ponies allowed on this way. Ponies
do come in-between while you are walking, breaking your rhythm. Battery
operated vehicles ply from Adhkuwari to Himkoti (only for aged, differently
abled people – subject to availability).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">With
few pit-stops, we reached the top at 9.30 pm. This seemingly exhaustive journey
is not so tiresome actually. Since you travel in a group (known as well as
unknown people), with an intense desire, shouting (or listening to) slogans of
“Mata”, you doesn’t feel that effort. Once at the top, we had some light food,
deposited our belongings in lockers & went for the Darshan. There was not
much rush and it took another hour or so for us to reach the Cave.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Goddess
Vaishnavi in her child (Kumari) form lived sometime during Lord Ram’s </span>Age. On
his insistence, she came at the bottom of these hills (Trikoot Parvat) for
meditation. During some Bhandara arrange by a local Brahmin, she was harassed
by Bhairon Nath. Vaishnavi ran away from him, climbed up the Trikoot Mountan
& hid inside a Cave. She did meditation here for 9 months. Bhairon Nath
reached here searching her. Vaishnavi ran away from him by breaking away the
Cave on other side using her Trishool. This Cave is now known Garbha-joon &
is at Adhkuwari. Pilgrims do go through this Cave & it is said that coming
out is like a new birth after washing out of all the sins.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Vaishnavi
climbed up to run away from Bhairon Nath. She came across another Cave; she hid
inside. Bhairon Nath followed here also. At the entrance of the Cave, Vaishnavi
severed the Head of Bhairon Nath killing him. So much was the force that the
Head flew away & landed at the hillock above the Cave. Bhairon Nath died,
but he expressed his remorse & shame before Vaishnavi for his wrong
behavior. Vaishnavi granted a wish to him; Bhairon Nath temple is made at the
place on the hillock where his Head fell & the devotees would have to visit
that temple after Vaishno Devi Darshan. This will complete the Vaishno Devi
Yatra.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">The
Main Cave is rarely used now; it’s entrance can be seen while you pass through
it. This was the Cave through which pilgrims used to go years ago. It is about
4-5 feet in height and stream of chilled water continuously flows through it –
the Charan Ganga said to originate from the Sanctum Sanctorum. However, as the
number of pilgrims started to rise, it became difficult to manage. Hence this
Cave is used only during lean periods; now two parallel paths are constructed
around it which directly take you inside Sanctum Sanctorum. If you are lucky
enough, you could get the chance to go through the original Cave.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Inside,
are the 3 rock formations (called Pindis) signifying 3 Goddesses – Maha-Saraswati,
Maha-Laxmi & Maha-Kali. The Pindis are beautifully decorated with golden
crown, ornaments, flowers, red clothing. The view is satisfying. Inside, you
can identify the entrance of the Main Cave coming from the right side. Heavy
gushing sound of water is heard; it is the Charan Ganga originating from here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">After
such a peaceful Darshan, we decided to return back. By the time, we got our
belongings from the Locker, it was 12 midnight. We started our descend. Walking
down is obviously less tiresome than ascending. By 3.30 am we were at the
bottom. We took an Auto-Rickshaw for our Hotel (note: Hotel Pick-up is not
available between 11 pm to 6 am). We had heard from someone that there are
Masseurs available and a Foot Massage is important as it relaxes & frees
your leg muscles to relieve for any pain later. These Masseurs are available
near Bus Stand and they do the Massage there or also accompany with you to your
hotel. The Auto-Driver took us to Bus Stand and we took the Masseur with us to
the hotel. It was relieving Massage really. And it really helped. We had the
whole Kashmir tour in front of us and we didn’t felt that much exertion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><b><u>July
21, 2015</u>:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">After
a brief sleep of couple of hours, we left for Jammu, this time by Bus. Regular
buses ply for Jammu from Katra Bus Stand. After getting down at Jammu, we hired
a Taxi, finalized a rate with him as we wanted a special taxi for 4 of us. We
got Tavera for Rs. 4000. Normal rate is Rs. 700 per person (</span><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">they take
7-8 passengers).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">We
started at 9 am for Srinagar. Jammu-Srinagar is about 300 kms along the NH-1
highway. First 50 kms till Udhampur is the 2 lane highway with 3-4 tunnels
& bridges. It is newly constructed about an year ago. Once Udhampur is
crossed, comes the undependable part of this Highway. Next 200 kms till Kashmir
Valley starts, the road is a complete Ghat Section with turns all around. High
rocky patches on side while deep valley on the other. This road witnesses
closure & blockages due to climatic conditions, land-slides in rainy
season, vehicle breakdowns causing traffic jams of hours together. So much the
undependability, that at times Jammu-Srinagar can be covered in 6 hours while
at times, it may take more than 10 hours. We took about 11 hours to reach
Srinagar – about 3 major traffic jams in between due to vehicle breakdowns.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G9s3OVYaZK8/VhEZnVYEyrI/AAAAAAAAT90/sauLmXjCUSo/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G9s3OVYaZK8/VhEZnVYEyrI/AAAAAAAAT90/sauLmXjCUSo/s400/DSC_0009.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Enroute Srinagar - NH-1 Jammu Srinagar Highway</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">However,
the road is awesome; the view is fantastic. If you wish to visit Kashmir, you
need to travel atleast once through this Highway. Air journey to Srinagar would
not be that satisfying – The Paradise is better experienced on land & not
seen through the air. The road turns through the hills with large Deodar trees
all around. Houses with colored roofs are constructed over the slopes of the
hills. Large rivers follow you at every nook & corner – Tawi at first, then
Chenaab & Jhelum towards the end in Srinagar. The route goes like
Jammu-Udhampur-Patni Top-Ramban (halfway)-Qazigund-Anantnag-Srinagar. Somewhere
near Patni Top, a large construction activity is going on. It is the
Chenani-Nashvi Tunnel Project – a 13 kms tunnel (Asia’s largest) is being
constructed. After it is completed, hopefully by 2017, it will save about 50-70
kms. This is equivalent to 3-4 hours of today’s journey.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kGzkSHEO14U/VhEaH9e63KI/AAAAAAAAT98/tJNlu_av1hE/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kGzkSHEO14U/VhEaH9e63KI/AAAAAAAAT98/tJNlu_av1hE/s400/DSC_0012.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dam on River Chenaab<br />We had an awesome Rajmaa-Chaawal here at place named Peera</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Another
attraction of this route is the Jawahar Tunnel (or Banihaal Pass). It is about
200 kms from Jammu. It is the only route which connects Kashmir Valley with
rest of India. It is therefore strategically important for India & hence
controlled by the BSF. State of J&K is comprised of 3 regions – Jammu,
Kashmir Valley & Ladakh. And Jawahar Tunnel is the entry to the Valley. It
is the Gateway to the Paradise on Earth. It is located within Pir Panjal
Mountain Range. Our driver was saying we actually crossed about 420 hills from
Jammu till here.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">It
comprises of 2 uni-directional tunnels, 2.5 kms each in length. It is well
ventilated inside. Open to traffic 24 hours & 7 days a week. Fully under
control of BSF. Another tunnel is newly constructed below this one. It is for
the Railway Line between Banihaal & Srinagar.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">From
here starts the Kashmir Valley. Actually, we did feel the change in weather
after we crossed the Tunnel; climate was much cooler. From here on one can see
the Kashmiri Villages, Snow-capped Mountains far away, smart & beautiful
Kashmiri People wearing Phiran (traditional woolen overcoat), Kahwa (tea like
drink). And also to mention, the presence of Armed Forces; all through the
road, after every few kms, a patrol party comprising 3-4 CRPF Men can be seen.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Road
now is pretty straight; the 200 kms of turns & twists are not here anymore.
The mighty Jhelum on your left indicates that your now entering Srinagar,
capital city of the State of J&K.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">We
reached Srinagar by 7 pm – almost a drive of 10 hours. Straight we went to our
Guest House, since it was late, we were tired & there was nothing else to
do.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><b><u>July
22, 2015</u>:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">We
had one acquaintance in Srinagar. He volunteered to accompany us & show us
around. Next morning, he along with his colleague came to our Guest House. He
had made arrangements for a vehicle. We started-off at about 9 am. We decided
to go to Gulmarg. It is a place very near to Srinagar – just an hour’s drive
(40 kms).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Originally
named as Gaurimarg referred to the Goddess Paarvati, later on it was
rechristened as Gulmarg – literary means “Meadows of Flowers”. It is a vast
expanse of pastures further extending towards snow clad mountains. The meadow
is World’s highest Golf Course during Summer, while in Winter it get converted
into a Skiing Facility. The time we went, it was lush green all over, with
colored flowers in between & occasional trees with snow peaks at the
backdrop. Emperor Shahajahan is said to have collected various types of Flower
Plants from Gulmarg to be used in various Mughal Gardens at places in Delhi
& Agra.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Many
a films have been shot here – Jai Jai Shiv Shankar song, Jab Tak Hain Jaan
song. The room in which the Bobby song “Hum Tum Ek Kamare Mein” was shot at one
house here. It is now famous as “Bobby Hut”. The guides show these here.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtu2sjxEFsFmgBrGIQCP8TpO5Voew6rH3HlrT5oxLJdefk2J13dmNPOiovZQ66T6VzYnaM4pOIRN5Y3zsPTFTLtQIEuBwD6ynjmsl1YM8qgWx1rwR36XFii7iK_wGd9xmGlEYJYamavBw/s1600/DSC_0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtu2sjxEFsFmgBrGIQCP8TpO5Voew6rH3HlrT5oxLJdefk2J13dmNPOiovZQ66T6VzYnaM4pOIRN5Y3zsPTFTLtQIEuBwD6ynjmsl1YM8qgWx1rwR36XFii7iK_wGd9xmGlEYJYamavBw/s400/DSC_0082.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Temple where 'Jai Jai Shiv Shankar" song was shot</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">After
vehicle parking, there are two ways one can go ahead – a horse ride & a
rope-way (Gandola). They take you to the top near snow. There are many shops
from where one can hire Gum-Boots, Jackets, Caps, etc. While a horse ride can
be exciting & adventurous, after sometime it becomes monotonous &
boring. We did take a horse ride, but it took us about 3-4 hours for whole
journey. You need to do a good bargain for a horse-ride – we finalised one for
Rs. 1200 per person.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">There
is another good option available – a Gandola ride (rope-way). It is one of
longest Rope-ways of Asia & highest in World. It is in two stages. Stage-1
is from Gulmarg till Khilenmarg (literary means Playground) which is at the
foot of Apharwat Peak (Ticket price is Rs. 600). “Yahoo” song from film “Junglee”
was shot at Khilenmarg. Stage-2 is from Khilenmarg to Apharwat Summit (Ticket
price is Rs. 800).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Gulmarg
is within miles from the LOC. Actually from the Apharwat Summit, they show the
Pakistani Posts across the LOC. We actually missed this view by opting for a
horse-ride instead of a Gondola. By the time reached back after our horse-ride,
it was almost 4 pm. And due to bad weather, Stage-2 was closed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nE03tJMuX8saFRR76ZBEvsgt2oQ3iBHIGMJ1-bjh9xGUJI6eG0zzLYeVUOlC8tkngQFSuSoI5Ac57Ngo8FuMbEdsnLHWJsicvmy-9CdKwHiOUeQ33eL_NBVAzoOJc5xCN804vv9nEAwO/s1600/DSC_0042.JPG" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nE03tJMuX8saFRR76ZBEvsgt2oQ3iBHIGMJ1-bjh9xGUJI6eG0zzLYeVUOlC8tkngQFSuSoI5Ac57Ngo8FuMbEdsnLHWJsicvmy-9CdKwHiOUeQ33eL_NBVAzoOJc5xCN804vv9nEAwO/s400/DSC_0042.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Nonetheless,
we had an awesome time. Some different experience riding a horse to climb little
ahead of Khilenmarg. Total distance might be about 7-8 kms one-way. Horses are
well-trained. They know the route and they take you properly to the
destination; sometime need to give directions by using the reins. The route is
scary sometimes; real tough. Heavy climb, rocky patches, slippery paths. But
the horses take you extremely well. They take you till the point of snow. The
snow here actually is not the one like we see in movies. Actually, it is brown
in color due to mud mixed with it. But the view is breathtaking.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">We
were just taking few photographs & were planning to walk a little ahead
towards some more snow, when it started raining really heavy. There were some
shacks made to serve tea. All the tourists took refuge there. We had the famous
Kashmiri Drink, the Kahwah, here. It ran heavily for about 20 minutes. Then the
rain stopped abruptly, the way it started. The locals said this is the weather
here all year at this altitude. Due to such unreliability, we decided to get
down at the earliest. We didn’t had any rain protection with us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4DhOcra2XZE/VhEa-Ji-QwI/AAAAAAAAT-M/KlI1mTLkVH8/s1600/DSC_0067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4DhOcra2XZE/VhEa-Ji-QwI/AAAAAAAAT-M/KlI1mTLkVH8/s320/DSC_0067.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Afmxkyrwr0/VhEbBoUR6HI/AAAAAAAAT-U/3ql4X_3KyTc/s1600/DSC_0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Afmxkyrwr0/VhEbBoUR6HI/AAAAAAAAT-U/3ql4X_3KyTc/s400/DSC_0079.JPG" width="266" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NtZkIduyXkk/VhEbLKgp_GI/AAAAAAAAT-c/AHjoeTz8m9w/s1600/DSC_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NtZkIduyXkk/VhEbLKgp_GI/AAAAAAAAT-c/AHjoeTz8m9w/s400/DSC_0080.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">We
reached the parking at 4 pm. By the end, we were really bored by the horse-ride
and wished to reach back at the earliest. It is due to this boredom & time
consuming, I feel it is better to prefer a Gondola at Gulmarg. It takes you at
much higher altitude, sure-shot to witness good snow; it is time-saving; it
will be an awesome experience to travel in one of the highest & longest
rope-way as your cable-car disappears in the clouds. My next visit here is
going to be a Gondola ride surely.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">We
had missed a lunch due to our horse-ride. We decided to go back to Srinagar
& have an early dinner. Our friend took us to – he said – one of the good
hotels of Srinagar, Mughal Darbar, which serves good Wazwan. Wazwan is a food
preparation that is Traditional Kashmiri. However, I alone being a vegetarian
had to adjust with Paneer. Rice is an important meal here. Raajma-Chawal is a
very delicious dish here. Meat is also part of most of the dishes of Kashmir.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">After
our dinner, we visited Lal Chowk, to have some ice-cream. It has one large
Clock-Tower called the Ghanta-ghar. It is the place of extreme significance in
History as well as Present of Srinagar (for that matter, the whole of Kashmir). The place is a witness of enormous
protests, countless rallies & number of political speeches – in the past as
well as today. In a way it is one of the happening places in Srinagar. The Ghanta-ghar can be seen in movie “Haider” (Shaahid
Kapoor’s speech).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><b><u>July
23, 2015</u>:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Next
morning, our plan was to visit Pahalgam, about 90 kms from Srinagar. We started
early at 7.30 am. The route is via Anantnag, the same route we came from Jammu
on NH-1. What all we missed due to low evening light that day, we were able to
see now – the vast Saffron (Kesar) Fields & its shops of Pompore &
Cricket Bat factories. At Anantnag, route bifurcates, one towards Jammu while
another to Pahalgam. Awantipora is another attraction – the remains of an
ancient Hindu Temple. We skipped this due to paucity of time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Pahalgam
is one more tourist destinations of Kashmir located in the Lidder Valley &
apart from its scenic beauty, famous because of being on route of Amarnath
Yatra. The road to Pahalgam is extremely scenic. After Anantnag, the River
Lidder follows last 40 kms route till Pahalgam. The view is extremely scenic -
clean white river water with white stones & boulders all around. We reached
Pahalgam by 9.30 am. Pahalgam is bigger town compared to Gulmarg. It is a main
place for Amarnath Yatra. Helicopter Service for Amarnath is available from
here. Nice hotels are available. Good market place is there for a good shopping
of Kashmir Special Goods.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">There
are various spots nearby. Ponies are available here too. They refer to some
place called as Mini-Switzerland. However, we were terrified with ponies now. We
moved ahead towards Betaab Valley, a place about 15 kms ahead of Pahalgam. The
place has got this name from Sunny Deol – Amrita Singh starrer film, “Betaab”.
It was shot here – see “Jab Hum Jawan Honge”.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6ut73p5SOE/VhEcZSE1ftI/AAAAAAAAT-0/5TN79T1KZxk/s1600/DSC_0110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6ut73p5SOE/VhEcZSE1ftI/AAAAAAAAT-0/5TN79T1KZxk/s400/DSC_0110.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AJT7lUuroYI/VhEcYANGccI/AAAAAAAAT-s/OS_v0zu9xd8/s1600/DSC_0124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AJT7lUuroYI/VhEcYANGccI/AAAAAAAAT-s/OS_v0zu9xd8/s400/DSC_0124.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-15zGb9ZkfwY/VhEc_I09GII/AAAAAAAAT-8/WI8zFvBPfy8/s1600/DSC_0134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-15zGb9ZkfwY/VhEc_I09GII/AAAAAAAAT-8/WI8zFvBPfy8/s400/DSC_0134.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OHS4e6T2Qio/VhEdiiyfgGI/AAAAAAAAT_M/gcV3yAAt5eU/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OHS4e6T2Qio/VhEdiiyfgGI/AAAAAAAAT_M/gcV3yAAt5eU/s400/DSC_0140.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Betaab
Valley, as per me, was by far the best location I saw in our trip. Lush green
pastures, covered from all sides by mountain ranges (snow-capped at some
places) & a stream of ice-chilled water of Lidder River flowing across the
plains. The water is sparkling clean (actually it is a melting snow at the top)
& awfully chilled. We tried to get into the water (just above ankle
length); could not stay inside for more than 15 seconds. The area is converted
into a park & is extremely well-maintained. There is cleanliness all
around. Place is brilliantly photogenic. There is a nominal ticket price of Rs.
5.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">We
spent about 3 hours inside. We returned to Pahalgam, had our lunch and again
proceeded to Aru. It is lesser known place about 12 kms from Pahalgam. It is
situated on the banks of River Aru, a tributary of Lidder. The road to Aru from
Pahalgam is an adventure. Very narrow road running by the banks of River Aru
& negotiating sharp turns, finally takes you to the Aru. It is actually a
place resting in the Lidder Valley.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T19BW2bPcAE/VhEdigffgbI/AAAAAAAAT_I/Gj4jUKr4SSs/s1600/DSC_0143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T19BW2bPcAE/VhEdigffgbI/AAAAAAAAT_I/Gj4jUKr4SSs/s400/DSC_0143.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bVX2RYtdtuY/VhEeJWZu8jI/AAAAAAAAT_U/EyE4XpLZjwc/s1600/DSC_0154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bVX2RYtdtuY/VhEeJWZu8jI/AAAAAAAAT_U/EyE4XpLZjwc/s400/DSC_0154.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp0S7nY9Sio/VhEeXD5eeLI/AAAAAAAAT_k/HsCbSKmyE30/s1600/DSC_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp0S7nY9Sio/VhEeXD5eeLI/AAAAAAAAT_k/HsCbSKmyE30/s400/DSC_0168.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5p4V8tZqww/VhEeTpCC5qI/AAAAAAAAT_c/v1Bi3WYUH2Q/s1600/DSC_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5p4V8tZqww/VhEeTpCC5qI/AAAAAAAAT_c/v1Bi3WYUH2Q/s400/DSC_0174.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Aru River</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">After
about an hour’s time, we decided to leave back to Srinagar. We reach at the Dal
Lake at 7 pm. We bid adieu to our friends from here & proceeded for a
Shikaara ride. Actually our’s was a very short trip to Kashmir. 2 days here are
insufficient. Our main aim was Vaishnodevi Yatra. Since we had couple of days
with us, we planned Srinagar. But we were not able to visit the city (various
Mughal gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, Hazaratbal Dargah, Tulip Gardens, etc).
We skipped Sonamarg & Yusmarg.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GsQgRLp1hsU/VhEe8vsxHPI/AAAAAAAAT_w/F0fVwuAo_NI/s1600/DSC_0181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GsQgRLp1hsU/VhEe8vsxHPI/AAAAAAAAT_w/F0fVwuAo_NI/s400/DSC_0181.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shikaaras - characteristic of Dal Lake</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">But
being in Srinagar for two days & not visiting Dal Lake, was not acceptable
to us. Hence, it was almost getting dark, but we decided to have a Shikaara ride.
Shikaaras are the small wooden boats. They have a multipurpose use – mainly
used for transportation of people apart for fishing, transportation of goods,
aquatic vegetation and also homes. They are mostly made of Deodar wood. There
are about 1800 Shikaaras here. A ride costs around Rs. 300 & carries about
4-6 people. We took a Shikaara ride. Our Boatman explained us some information
about the lake apart from some view points. He was speaking fluent English
apart from Hindi.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Dal
Lake is the life-line of Srinagar. About 1 to 1.5 lakh people are dependent on the
Lake. They live on the Lake; their earnings depend on the Lake (tourism,
fishing, aquatic plantations, shops, etc). It is said to be about 22 kms in
perimeter & forms interlinking with many small lakes & water bodies. Nageen
Lake is also one such famous Lake for tourism. Two hillocks over look the Dal
Lake – Hari Parbat on one side while Shankaracharya on the other.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V8bUTPQNygA/VhEe89HbXtI/AAAAAAAAT_0/ilxMP2KBbBE/s1600/DSC_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V8bUTPQNygA/VhEe89HbXtI/AAAAAAAAT_0/ilxMP2KBbBE/s320/DSC_0188.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dal Lake with Hari Parbat at the backdrop</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Houseboats
form highlight of Dal Lake. These were originally built by the British. There
was some rule by the Maharaja of Kashmir that building of houses in Valley was
restricted. Hence British came-up with this unique concept. Since then,
Houseboats have become part of Dal Lake. They are made from Deodar or Walnut
wood, have intricately crafted interiors & exteriors and can be large
enough to house 3 bedrooms apart from a Living Room & Kitchen. Price of a
Houseboat normally is in Lakhs of Rupees while its life can be more than 100
years. Unlike Kerala, Houseboats here are stationery and parked along the banks
of Dal or Nageen Lake or along Jhelum River. The boatmen show the Housboats
where movies like Mission Kashmir & Bemisaal (Amitabh Bachchan) were shot.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Floating
Plantations another wonder of the Lake. Locals here grow various Plants,
Vegetables (Cucumber, Pumpkins) & Fruits (Watermelons) over the Lake
waters. This is the technique is use since centuries here. These are formed by
interweaving the weeds in the water forming mats. Plantations are done on
these. It is like a farming done on the surface of water. The produce from
these Floating Gardens form a source of livelihood for its farmers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">There
is a full-fledged Floating Market on the Lake. From a hair-pin to handloom,
everything is available. Shops are set-up actually on the boat. One just needs
to get from his Shikaara to the other Shikaara-Shop. Various Shikaaras are
moving in the Lake carrying small items like jewellery & vegetable for
sale. Even, we saw one Shikaara selling Kedaabs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Dal
Lake is rightfully known as “Venice of the East” and more truly is referred as
the “Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir”. It’s for this reason, the Dal Lake with
its Shikaara forms the identity of Kashmir world over.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Our
ride ended by 8 pm. A brief shopping & dinner followed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><b><u>July
24, 2015</u>:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Tonight,
we had our return train to Pune – Jhelum Express (11078) which departs from
Jammu Tawi Station at 9.45 pm. We had some time off; so we decided to visit the
Rahgunath Temple – one of the attractions of Jammu. It is a temple dedicated to
Lord Ram; while has many small temples of other deities in the vicinity. The
temple is located in the market area & is built by Maharaja Gulaab Singh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">Finally,
we came to an end of our memorable trip; with a self-promise to visit once
again – with a plan to spend more time in Kashmir. We reached Pune on the
evening of July 26, 2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: white; color: #2b2b2b; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;"><b>Maps:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m24!1m8!1m3!1d214518.47359182648!2d74.8608641!3d32.8491926!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e6!4m5!1s0x391e84bf169d3525%3A0xf233488eeb8fd8d!2sJammu!3m2!1d32.726601599999995!2d74.8570259!4m5!1s0x391e78e6316b55cb%3A0xf3ea3335c5a9638!2sKatra!3m2!1d32.9914962!2d74.93181729999999!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1440774795605" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe><br />
Jammu to Katra - Route Comparison - Road Vs Rail</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /><br />
<br />
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d852695.7871855417!2d74.23288826334517!3d33.401262099692204!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e6!4m5!1s0x391e84bf169d3525%3A0xf233488eeb8fd8d!2sJammu!3m2!1d32.726601599999995!2d74.8570259!4m5!1s0x38e1855686e3c5ef%3A0x66244b7cc1e305c6!2sSrinagar!3m2!1d34.0836581!2d74.7973681!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1443972254257" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jammu to Srinagar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Stay Details:</b></span></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Jammu and Kashmir33.778175 76.57617140000002130.4052485 71.412597400000024 37.151101499999996 81.739745400000018tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-41937181415877798832014-10-24T13:50:00.000+05:302018-10-04T20:27:46.979+05:30Kaas Plateau - Maharashtra's Valley Of Flowers_October 10, 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Long awaited trip was finally achieved; the season was not good this year... somehow, quantity of flowers blossomed was much much lesser. Nevertheless, we got a lot information about these wild beauties; thanks to the local guide that we took help of - Mr. Vilas Adale</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BoZXBaUnz88/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Maharashtra's very own Valley of Flowers!!! Kas Plateau #kasplateau #kasflowervalley #satara #kaspathar #kaspathar_satara #maharashtravalleyofflowers #instalogues #itsmytravelogue #naturalwonders #throwback</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-10-01T15:54:12+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 1, 2018 at 8:54am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We had planned to visit this place on a week-day. This was to avoid the "mad" rush that takes place during week-ends & holidays. Last time we had gone to <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2012/08/bamnoli-drive-in-clouds-august-19-2012.html" target="_blank">Bamnoli</a> which is about 10-15 kms ahead of Kaas. We had experienced this rush & traffic then.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started off from Pune at 6.15 am. Took Sinhagad Road & connected to the Mumbai-Bangalore outer ring road (NH-4). After a brief breakfast pit-stop at Hotel Aashirwad (just before Surur Phata - to Wai, Mahabaleshwar), we reached Kaas by 9.30 am. Normally, for a trip on week-ends & holidays, it is better to do the online booking <a href="http://www.kas.ind.in/" target="_blank">here</a>. For other days, it is not required. Charges are Rs. 10 per adult & Rs. 40 for car parking. No fee for children.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There were about 7-8 vehicle only. We were able to wander freely and peacefully. We met a local from a nearby village, who offered to took us around and show us the flowers with there names & specialty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We normally take help of such guides and locals whenever we visit different places. This helps us not only to see, but also to understand (differences, uniqueness, history, etc) the places better. They also show us the places, locations which we would have missed had we gone all alone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Because of Vilas, we came to know many things about the flowers in the region. There are about 350 odd varieties of plants in the region. Each flower has a specific time of blooming ranging from time, months and even years. If the season is at its peak, one can see a carpet of flowers spread in the area. It is said that if you visit after a gap of weeks during Sep-Oct, you can see the different colors of flowers laid across the region.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Most of these flowers blossom in September-October months. There is one flower which blooms once in 7-8 years. Some flowers bloom in the morning while others late in the day.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQf9bO9QaXc/VEnghLVJc_I/AAAAAAAAS5Y/4d74KSejGCA/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQf9bO9QaXc/VEnghLVJc_I/AAAAAAAAS5Y/4d74KSejGCA/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: तेरडा</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">most commonly found flower</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LsYdQhlr4N8/VEnghHOFv1I/AAAAAAAAS5Y/PEzCj0vX4A4/s1600/DSC_0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LsYdQhlr4N8/VEnghHOFv1I/AAAAAAAAS5Y/PEzCj0vX4A4/s1600/DSC_0049.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Smithia Hirsuta</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: कावळा / </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Micky Mouse</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">most commonly found flower in the wilds</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85c7wZet9eA3V_KBaimQwtJX1v5OEMb1mHyx1FOdTWVpG6TgGz86JoMNqskCZnqx6m4FQ_FaGNW6S5TQqIYBtCoh6Tg6w6RsgB2H2D8Fv_dJ5MSQtMU2osx5s-9Q90A3hwQpsHwDba54x/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85c7wZet9eA3V_KBaimQwtJX1v5OEMb1mHyx1FOdTWVpG6TgGz86JoMNqskCZnqx6m4FQ_FaGNW6S5TQqIYBtCoh6Tg6w6RsgB2H2D8Fv_dJ5MSQtMU2osx5s-9Q90A3hwQpsHwDba54x/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pleocaulus Ritchiei</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: कारवी टोपली</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blossoms after every 7-8 years</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1pusaDd46o/VEnghJBH7VI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/q3CriEnWFrM/s1600/DSC_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1pusaDd46o/VEnghJBH7VI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/q3CriEnWFrM/s1600/DSC_0056.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: मोठी सोनकी</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DyFp06NHDTE/VEnghJK2ynI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/lCLp0vdjXgQ/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DyFp06NHDTE/VEnghJK2ynI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/lCLp0vdjXgQ/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cyanotis Tuberosa</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: आभाळी</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blossoms in the morning, flower wither late in the day</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">and it is so tightly closed, that it is impossible to open the covering</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7JinwR1B5xY/VEnghERHy8I/AAAAAAAAS5Y/RxHjoMW5bfE/s1600/DSC_0063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7JinwR1B5xY/VEnghERHy8I/AAAAAAAAS5Y/RxHjoMW5bfE/s1600/DSC_0063.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: निसुर्डी</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blooms in shade, below large shady trees</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MoAWObgMTOk/VEnghMqH9yI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/MvqeVGrg-vk/s1600/DSC_0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MoAWObgMTOk/VEnghMqH9yI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/MvqeVGrg-vk/s1600/DSC_0065.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pogostemon Deccanensis</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: जांभळी मंजिरी</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">found near marsh land, muddy area by the water body</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-39Exw9BtXFc/VEnghNtQLnI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/Tmw9CCKtPwk/s1600/DSC_0067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-39Exw9BtXFc/VEnghNtQLnI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/Tmw9CCKtPwk/s1600/DSC_0067.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6zH6MBKwH_8/VEnghEX8ynI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/lBbIQwwsQlU/s1600/DSC_0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6zH6MBKwH_8/VEnghEX8ynI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/lBbIQwwsQlU/s1600/DSC_0072.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dipcadi Montanum</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: दीप-काडी (Tooth-Brush)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fvri5axyKsg/VEnghBdeofI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/fcvZFj2Lt9U/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fvri5axyKsg/VEnghBdeofI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/fcvZFj2Lt9U/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Murdannia Lanuginosa</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Common Name: अबोलीमा</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blooms late in the morning, after 10 / 10.30 am</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Other flowers which we saw (photos were not clicked) are <span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">Bhuichar, Neelam, Seetechi Aaswa, Raan-halad, Sonki</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Following this heritage visit (the region is declared as a World Heritage Site, by the way), we moved ahead. 3 kms ahead is the Kaas Lake. It was constructed 100 years ago by the British as a water source for Satara City. While ascending a small ghat, the water body looks awesome.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m2jRnv8pDwI/VEnghJpDfII/AAAAAAAAS5Y/6owycOUdf3w/s1600/DSC_0093-PANO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="56" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m2jRnv8pDwI/VEnghJpDfII/AAAAAAAAS5Y/6owycOUdf3w/s1600/DSC_0093-PANO.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kaas Lake - A Panorama</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While coming to Kaas, just before check-post, there is a left exit (board is available) for Goddess Ghataai Temple (घाटाई देवी मंदिर) and a Devrai (देवराई</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">). About 4 kms from here is a temple situated within dense trees. The temple is being renovated at present.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ryXLsG38ey0/VEnghEtgqDI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/IgJfuDwSB8k/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ryXLsG38ey0/VEnghEtgqDI/AAAAAAAAS5Y/IgJfuDwSB8k/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ghataai Devi Temple</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Devrai is the place around a temple where the villagers and locals do not cut the trees, its fruits and flowers. The trees and thus the forest grows for years (even centuries) completely untouched. It is said that the God lives here, hence these should not be cut (defaced). This was the way of our ancestors to maintain the ecological balance in the nature.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Odometer readings:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Narayan Peth (Pune): 0 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kaas Plateau Check Post: 139 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kaas Lake: 142 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ghatai Devi Temple: 149 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Narayan Peth: 290 kms</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m35!1m12!1m3!1d970869.6539441596!2d73.33163497865928!3d18.096555772814266!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m20!1i0!3e0!4m5!1s0x3bc2bf2e67461101%3A0x828d43bf9d9ee343!2sPune%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d18.520430299999997!2d73.8567437!4m5!1s0x3bc2156bb1b31937%3A0xa05920673b65bbde!2sKaas+Plateau+of+Flowers!3m2!1d17.720831399999998!2d73.8237159!4m5!1s0x3bc2158144d736a7%3A0x17c0db0d94a2e10c!2sGhatai+Devi+Temple%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d17.694978!2d73.836829!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1414138384101" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe></div>
Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-16308475137454546652014-03-31T15:12:00.000+05:302014-05-28T19:45:41.967+05:30Gibraltar of the East, Fort Raigad_March 22-23, 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I had been to Raigad (किल्ले रायगड)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> about 20 or more years back. It was
without the luxury of a Ropeway (that means climbing about 1500 steps to the
top). Therefore, conquering Raigad once again was one of our long pending
expeditions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started-off from Pune in the morning. We took the better
conditioned Tamhini Ghat route. Varandha Ghat route is very bad. And, moreover
distance from both the routes is same.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had our breakfast at a newly opened Kamat Hotel. It is
actually a bungalow converted into a hotel about 6 kms ahead of Paud; very
small compared to those extravagant Kamat Hotels on other highways.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The route (Pune-Pirangut-Paud-Mulshi-Tamhini Ghat) is pretty
straight and busy till Nizampur village after Tamhini Ghat. Road is pretty
good, except a pathetic patch of 2-3 kms in Tamhini Ghat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At Nizampur (निझामपुर)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, there is a left turn for Raigad (signboard is
available). Raigad from here is about 30 kms. Road condition is bad, but this
route saves about 50 kms if one goes via Mahaad. The route is deserted. Better
to avoid it during late evenings / nights; no problems during the day though.
We had our share of problem on this route; we had a flat tyre.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We reached the Raigad Ropeway office at the base at about
1.30 pm. Raigad Ropeway has a canteen & Rooms at the base as well as on
top. However, AC Rooms are available only at the base. All information is
available online. Room booking can be done in advance; however, Ropeway tickets
are to be availed on the spot. MTDC also has non-AC rooms on top. We had booked
a room on top through Raigad Ropeway.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After lunch we headed for the Rope-way. At the base a 22
minute film on Raigad is shown. Also, there is a museum displaying historical
items of Shivaji’s era. However, there should be atleast 30 people.
Unfortunately, we were only 3 of us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We directly boarded the Trolley. It takes about 4 minutes to
reach the top. The view is mesmerizing. Within seconds the village below starts
appearing miniscule & in minutes it’s time to disembark. Better not to
waste time in photographing. Just enjoy the show. But I did click a few photos
& a video!!!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/WomFen6AEAQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwh4kv8GLjA/U4Gp09CJP7I/AAAAAAAALrM/sprWrCIWmTc/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwh4kv8GLjA/U4Gp09CJP7I/AAAAAAAALrM/sprWrCIWmTc/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next to the Ropeway Station are the Rooms & a Cafeteria
of Raigad Ropeway. Just a caveat. Rooms are really, really basic. Those who
feel they are the persnickety kinds; this is not the place for you. Those who
are interested only in the Fort & its History, can go ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Climbing about 25-30 steps towards the fort, are the MTDC
Rooms.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the evening, after a cup of tea, we started for a
walk-around the fort. Guides are available. We took one. He charged us about
300 Rs. for 90 mins tour (actually, he completed within an hour). There is an
entry fee of Rs. 5 per head by ASI (Archeological Survey of India).</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGjwDEC7rjTLmTQyjLnp6nLepzzQCAyUyEMz0GdO23d1IsmJ20graYAABS2gP6P_G5AJEhFkWMRKinR1YQzcZSX_a4zcw6Uzmeq5455k2gLiRffPoCzdBc4iyQHEpzAXlt5RTV47bJ17q/s1600/DSC_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGjwDEC7rjTLmTQyjLnp6nLepzzQCAyUyEMz0GdO23d1IsmJ20graYAABS2gP6P_G5AJEhFkWMRKinR1YQzcZSX_a4zcw6Uzmeq5455k2gLiRffPoCzdBc4iyQHEpzAXlt5RTV47bJ17q/s1600/DSC_0081.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Statue of Shiv-rai near Market Place -<br />installed sometime in 1970s</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shivaji (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">शिवाजी</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) took the fort called Rairi (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">रायरी</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) after defeating
Chandrarao More (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">चंद्रराव मोरे</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) of Jawali (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">जावळी)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. Earlier he had requested Mores to help the Swarajya (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">स्वराज्य</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) by providing the fort. Chandrarao had denied. This was the year 1656. Fort Rajgad (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">किल्ले राजगड</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) was the capital of Marathas at that time. Rajgad was extremely difficult (for
common public to visit their King) & it had very less space available on
top. As the governance of Swarajya started rising, Rajgad started falling short
of facilities & space. Therefore, even though Rajgad was the most favorite
Fort of Shivaji, for strategic reasons, he decided to shift his Capital on
Raigad in the year 1662; which he finally did in 1670. It took 14 years till
1670 to complete all the construction work that we see currently on the fort.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The total area above the fort is 1200 acres. There are about
300 buildings, 11 large lakes & 44 tanks. Architect of the fort was Hiroji
Indulkar (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">हिरोजी इंदुलकर)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. It is said that during the construction when there was shortage of
funds, he sold-off his own land & completed the construction. Whole
construction was made of Stones extracted from the fort itself & cemented by
mixture of Limestone, Jaggary & Lead. The reason, these remains still stand
tall battling the environment since last 350 years. There is one Stone Plaque on the fort bearing a guarantee by Hiroji in Modi Script. It states that till the time Sun & Moon keep on shining in sky, this fort shall stand tall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Coronation (Rajyabhishek) of Shivaji Maharaj (शिवराज्याभिषेक</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) took place on
Raigad on June 6, 1674; he came to be known as Chhatrapati & formed his
Saarvabhaum Saamrajya (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">सार्वभौम साम्राज्य - </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sovereign State). He even started his own Shiva-Shaka (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">शिव-शक</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">).
He was only King who did so in 1000 years of Indian History after Shalivahana (discontinued
later by Nana Phadanvis in 1777).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shivaji died here on April 3, 1680. His stay on Raigad was
of mere 10 years. His elder son Sambhaji Maharaj conducted his Last Rites on
June 18, 1680 after his return from Mughals. One of the 8 wives of Shivaji, Putalabai
Saheb, went Sati on June 27, 1680. Sambhaji constructed a Samadhi which we can
see today on Raigad.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9 years after his death, Raigad went into the hand of
Mughals on November 3, 1689 and then to Siddis in 1707. After 43 years, on June
5, 1733 Fateh Singh Bhosale (an aide of Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj) got back the
fort into Marathas. Peshawas started controlling it from 1773 onwards. On April
25, 1818, during the last Anglo-Maratha War, British laid a seige to Raigad.
When they were unable to conquer it easily, they mounted their Cannons on a
nearby hillock by the name Kalkai (कालकाई चा डोंगर</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). During this attack one of the
Cannon shot fell on Ammunition Store. Raigad burnt for about 11 days. Finally,
Marathas on the Fort, surrendered on May 10, 1818 & Raigad fell into the
hands of British.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After 1818, British looted whatever valuables remained on
Raigad (the Gold Throne of Shivaji Maharaj was already melted & stolen by a
Mughal Sardar of Aurangzeb earlier). They handed over the Fort to their Forest
Department & it remained neglected. The Capital of Hindavi Swarajya &
Samadhi of its Founder was soon forgotten by people. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule (महात्मा ज्योतिबा फुले</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) searched
out this Samadhi in 1869.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After evening tea, we started to explore taking a Guide with
us. The Ropeway is actually at the backside of the Fort. On the opposite side
are the 1500 steps & the Maha-Darwaza (महादरवाजा</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). We entered through Mena-Darwaza (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">मेणा-दरवाजा), the
door used by the Queens to enter / exit the Palace in a Mena (Palanquins). Immediately on left are the 6 doors. These are the 6 Palaces of the 6 Queens of
Shivaji. Other 2 Queens – Saibai (सईबाई) used to live in Rajgad while Putalabai (पुतळाबाई) lived
at the base village, Pachaad (पाचाड), with Jijabai (जिजाबाई) Saheb, mother of Shivaji. All 6 Queen's Room are exactly similar with a separate personal room & a meeting room for guests. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A drainage system of those days is till today seen in some of these rooms.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rj0uS8Fk7ds/U4GqecgTVQI/AAAAAAAALrk/cGzIJJEqhlw/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rj0uS8Fk7ds/U4GqecgTVQI/AAAAAAAALrk/cGzIJJEqhlw/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Inside of one of 6 Queen Palaces</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rixmmpdi1SA/U4Gp1IOy-fI/AAAAAAAALrU/71hQzgDSxqM/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rixmmpdi1SA/U4Gp1IOy-fI/AAAAAAAALrU/71hQzgDSxqM/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Drainage System</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On the right are the remains of the Mantralaya (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">मंत्रालय</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) building, The Ashtapradhan Niwas (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">अष्टप्रधान निवास - </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Minister's Quarters).</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubwZupy8Co3o-btImeTrMfpya45udZ3wt2zzu5-LsRP4t2AtXBooTSYN1V5d2SNjpfzZg1vcTkLEtl4DYtz0D5jtMM63fZhnzsUH2VPTK_K038eFPJ5qmqomnBlSpYthmsVnI7-NipcCd/s1600/DSC_0118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubwZupy8Co3o-btImeTrMfpya45udZ3wt2zzu5-LsRP4t2AtXBooTSYN1V5d2SNjpfzZg1vcTkLEtl4DYtz0D5jtMM63fZhnzsUH2VPTK_K038eFPJ5qmqomnBlSpYthmsVnI7-NipcCd/s1600/DSC_0118.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remains of Mantralaya Building</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aC1aTaCkSbo/U4Gp18UelaI/AAAAAAAALrY/nv83V4y-GW8/s1600/DSC_0057_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aC1aTaCkSbo/U4Gp18UelaI/AAAAAAAALrY/nv83V4y-GW8/s1600/DSC_0057_1.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mantralaya Building - <br />Fort Rajgad (left) & Fort Torna (right) at the back</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Straight ahead is the Palkhi Darwaza (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">पालखी दरवाजा</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) ascending the steps we
can reach the Ganga-Sagar Lake (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">गंगासगर तलाव</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). Towards Right is the way towards Main Palace of
Shivaji Maharaj. One can feel the grandeur of this area and the magnificence of
this Palace that would have been in those days. In those days the structure was
supported using high quality Sagwaan Wood Pillars.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M9z3UshTd_8/U4Gu0NCtO0I/AAAAAAAALtc/FdSsuNf41z8/s1600/Untitled_Panorama2_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M9z3UshTd_8/U4Gu0NCtO0I/AAAAAAAALtc/FdSsuNf41z8/s1600/Untitled_Panorama2_1.JPG" height="143" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Royal Palace Campus - Remains</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Behind
the Palace is the Raj-durbar, the Royal Court (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">राजदरबार</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">). On the farther side a tall gate-like structure is seen which is the Nagaar-khana (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">नगारखाना</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">); while just behind the Palace walls is the Place from where Chatrapati ruled Swarajya. A Meghdambari with Shivaji's statue has been kept on the place where Shiv-rajyabhishek took place. This was the place where there used to be his Gold Throne (Sinhasan).</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HionSK50hpQ/U4GqfEJ81WI/AAAAAAAALro/nTldMhF1SKk/s1600/DSC_0069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HionSK50hpQ/U4GqfEJ81WI/AAAAAAAALro/nTldMhF1SKk/s1600/DSC_0069.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Meghdambari with a Statue- Made of Panchdhatu;<br />Statue was installed sometime around 2007</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vo782DYOXTg/U4GqsT0WCPI/AAAAAAAALrw/Vb8DKhDP0qQ/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vo782DYOXTg/U4GqsT0WCPI/AAAAAAAALrw/Vb8DKhDP0qQ/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nagaar-Khana</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Apart from the splendor of this Raj-durbar, there is one architectural wonder. The distance between Shivaji's Throne & Nagaar-khana is good 80 meters. Still even if you whisper from the Throne, voice is clearly heard at the base of Nagaar-khana (& vice-a-versa). This phenomenon can be witnessed even today. We have tried it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Shivaji Maharaj was extremely fascinated by this system as well as overall construction of the Fort. He told Hiroji Indulkar to ask for anything in reward & that shall be provided. Hiroji, instead (the simple man that he was), asked for just one small demand. He said to create a Stone Plaque in his name stating - "</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">सेवेची ठायी तत्पर, हिरोजी इंदुलकर" (Always at the King's Service). That plaque is seen in the Jagadishwar Temple complex on the Fort.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Crossing the Nagaar-khana there is a well-laid route towards Bazaar-Peth, the Market Place (बाजार पेठ</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">). On your right you can see the Jagadishwar Temple (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">जगदीश्वर मंदिर - </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">the Lord of the Fort).</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CE_EQcJ_FJo/U4Gqtw4mKLI/AAAAAAAALr4/naEgtVrU8E4/s1600/DSC_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CE_EQcJ_FJo/U4Gqtw4mKLI/AAAAAAAALr4/naEgtVrU8E4/s1600/DSC_0080.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jagadishwar Temple</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">The temple is constructed in Islamic Style, looking at the Minaars & Central Dome. This was to save it from destruction in case the Fort falls into the hands of Mughals or other Islamic Rulers.</span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRw17nNs-SnTD_Mxq1IX_7jO7R7s9aLPDZ8s_s91_LQu7F11sstZzxltssNIARGhDliBi7dVmV1dldsZXBvk5QmlCMWgsh2ZEQ_xnA6qhAj9qpCx0Rc5aS0Attt8f6LPD3GtClRlC0oVw/s1600/DSC_0091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRw17nNs-SnTD_Mxq1IX_7jO7R7s9aLPDZ8s_s91_LQu7F11sstZzxltssNIARGhDliBi7dVmV1dldsZXBvk5QmlCMWgsh2ZEQ_xnA6qhAj9qpCx0Rc5aS0Attt8f6LPD3GtClRlC0oVw/s1600/DSC_0091.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bazaar-Peth</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Market Place was the main trading area of the Fort. There are about 22 compartments (shops) seen. These are properly divided as the front shop area & the living quarters at the back. The height of each shop is such that the Sardars won't need to get down of their horses. They could shop sitting on their horse-backs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The 7th left shop bears a symbol of a Snake, which is nowhere seen on other 21 shops. It is said to represent one of the big trader & head of the Market of that time, Nagappa Shetty.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEzFTs1sY1GOLkz27WlyeTZPwUTWa_vlITFN9afHx1tkojbWi1hj-1nQOtOoFjtv2E5ND6Rh2lTm3eqTlh8Ko6_uqaW_lHDMtNboDdS1T6UBnzXGZ-50iueM5a0WunksWUURdrvG8a6Szu/s1600/DSC_0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEzFTs1sY1GOLkz27WlyeTZPwUTWa_vlITFN9afHx1tkojbWi1hj-1nQOtOoFjtv2E5ND6Rh2lTm3eqTlh8Ko6_uqaW_lHDMtNboDdS1T6UBnzXGZ-50iueM5a0WunksWUURdrvG8a6Szu/s1600/DSC_0085.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is this place where the Guides end their tour. From here we can cross the Bazaar-Peth and towards Right is the Jagdishwar Temple while to the Left is the Takmak Tok (टकमक टोक)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Takmak Tok is the place from where it is said that the death penalty was executed. The convict was tied inside a sack & then thrown off the cliff. It is till today a very difficult area on the Fort. And the strong winds make walking to it even more difficult. There are safety railings though.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is one more story related to Tamak Tok. I am not sure how true it is. There was one person who used to hold an umbrella over Shivaji's head whenever Shivaji used to go on a tour of Raigad. While on Takmak Tok, due to strong winds, that guy got lifted upwards due to umbrella & he fell in the valley. But he kept his patience & didn't leave the umbrella & safely parachuted in the village below (Nizampur). Shivaji was extremely happy with his presence of mind & therefore, he named that village as Chatri-Nizampur.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We stopped our Raigad tour here as well since we had a small kid with us & walking towards Temple & Takmak Tok is really tiresome (for children & aged).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next day morning, we again decided to spend some more time till the Ropeway starts at 8 am.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We walked down the Palkhi Darwaza this time. The Ganga-Sagar Lake & the 3 Watch Towers can be seen from here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">About 50 families still live on Raigad. Drinking water is used from this lake even today.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6rzfQL8j4jo/U4GtsVR2TlI/AAAAAAAALtA/6WmJrfOKPME/s1600/DSC_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6rzfQL8j4jo/U4GtsVR2TlI/AAAAAAAALtA/6WmJrfOKPME/s1600/DSC_0175.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Palkhi-Darwaza - Takmak Tok at the back</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HczPddQvkhY/U4GtHm7yvPI/AAAAAAAALsw/m0w6-WeQy0Y/s1600/DSC_0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HczPddQvkhY/U4GtHm7yvPI/AAAAAAAALsw/m0w6-WeQy0Y/s1600/DSC_0162.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of the Watch Towers</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BhJOT9fOU2k/U4GtM55_nGI/AAAAAAAALs4/NgK1BjSmPVE/s1600/DSC_0164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BhJOT9fOU2k/U4GtM55_nGI/AAAAAAAALs4/NgK1BjSmPVE/s1600/DSC_0164.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ganga-Sagar Lake</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lw3Wwg0otps/U4GvRUEuxLI/AAAAAAAALts/8ZCI3Lp47iM/s1600/Untitled_Panorama3_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lw3Wwg0otps/U4GvRUEuxLI/AAAAAAAALts/8ZCI3Lp47iM/s1600/Untitled_Panorama3_1.JPG" height="113" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Panorama - 3 Watch Towers & a Strategy Discussion Room -<br />As seen from the King's Palace</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After breakfast, we took our descend through the Ropeway. Within 10 minutes we were driving back. On the way, took a halt at the Jijamata Samadhi in Pachaad vilage (base village of Raigad).</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bt-wlbYcKq8/U4Guygt8I_I/AAAAAAAALtU/So8FWN61aG4/s1600/DSC_0189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bt-wlbYcKq8/U4Guygt8I_I/AAAAAAAALtU/So8FWN61aG4/s1600/DSC_0189.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrctumhuTjSZQK9DlVJ9HFHswmWZTmlRF_8l1rfjYtdw7Dto0ayi6s6zGbzXea4RZ26eVVSCMO3PVIG10QvcqrJZyP18sXnubWU2Wl4UXAVBBJOGlCniKxdOir7ayGSahsvviH3Jeqml0/s1600/DSC_0182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrctumhuTjSZQK9DlVJ9HFHswmWZTmlRF_8l1rfjYtdw7Dto0ayi6s6zGbzXea4RZ26eVVSCMO3PVIG10QvcqrJZyP18sXnubWU2Wl4UXAVBBJOGlCniKxdOir7ayGSahsvviH3Jeqml0/s1600/DSC_0182.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The statue is so intricately carved -<br />just see the design on her Paithani Saree</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We came to know that there is one exhibition of 20 miniature Forts of Shivaji, prepared by a localite. We went to see that, but it was closed at 10 am in the morning (?).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We took the Mahaad route this time. We were planning to see couple of places, the Buddhist Caves of Pale (पाले)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> & Hot Water Springs of Sav (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">सव</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). However, by the time we reached these places, it was 11 and the March Summer Sun was bursting extremely hot. Hence we cancelled the idea & decided to return to Pune.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GdoqDO6M7dY/U4HGHEPWGGI/AAAAAAAALuA/diNnKp-wplw/s1600/DSC_0178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GdoqDO6M7dY/U4HGHEPWGGI/AAAAAAAALuA/diNnKp-wplw/s1600/DSC_0178.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a lunch break at Quick Bite in Tamhini Ghat, we reached Pune at 4 pm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Odo Readings:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">0 Narayan
Peth</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8 Chandani Chowk</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">21 Pirangut</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">29 Paud</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">35 Kamat
Hotel</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">91 Tamhini Ghat ends</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">105 Nizampur</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">137 Raigad base (Ropeway Parking)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">159 Mahaad</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">177 Sav (Hot Water Springs)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">200 Maangao</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">210 Nizampur</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">256 Tamhini Village</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">316 Narayan Peth</span><br />
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com3Raigad Fort, Gherakilla Raigad, Vagheri, Maharashtra 402305, India18.2348325 73.447170799999981-7.2872020000000006 32.138576799999981 43.756867 114.75576479999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-63749793733432702132014-03-16T19:37:00.000+05:302020-05-12T09:20:03.288+05:30Bhuleshwar: A Broken Beauty_March 16, 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is hard to believe that a treasure of beautiful
sculptures can be found at a distance of just about 50 kms from Pune. We
decided to explore this place – for me, once again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started from Pune at about 8 am. We took the Pune-Solapur
Highway (NH-9) via Swargate. After an awesome breakfast of Misal-Paav at
Kaanchan (a Hotel just before the Bhuleshwar exit), we reached the temple. The
temple is located about 10 kms off the Highway on a small hillock. This hillock
is actually the Fort by the name Daulatmangal (formerly known as Mangalgad).
Remnants of fort walls & bastions can be seen. The road up the fort is
beautiful with excellent twists & turns. We went in hot summers; however,
driving here in rains would be an experience to cherish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The temple can be easily seen from a distance, with a
telecommunication tower just behind it destroying the beauty of the place.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7yLVcGa0mSM/U7LS86YlxlI/AAAAAAAALx8/auL9PMR8ZdA/s1600/DSC_0042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7yLVcGa0mSM/U7LS86YlxlI/AAAAAAAALx8/auL9PMR8ZdA/s1600/DSC_0042.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Reaching near the temple, a striking difference is seen as
compared to other temples. Half the structure is made from Black Stone in a
distinct Hemadpanthi Style while top portion, Shikhara, is of yellowish white
coloured stone (seemed to be Standstone). More noticing is that the Shikhara is
dome-shaped constructed in Islamic Style.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Y5I7peK7oA/U7LTM4G4j8I/AAAAAAAALyE/6FKJt5Y6SXM/s1600/DSC_0039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Y5I7peK7oA/U7LTM4G4j8I/AAAAAAAALyE/6FKJt5Y6SXM/s1600/DSC_0039.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is said that the temple was attacked by the then Mughal Rulers
& destroyed. The Shikhara was completely destroyed. This was later
reconstructed by the then Maratha Rulers. The extent of this destruction can be felt
once you are inside. The entrance is hidden. It has steps on both sides to
reach the top; the passage is narrow & dark. It is said to be constructed
after the invasion to prevent any more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A large Nandi meets your eye as you climb these steps.
Sanctum Sanctorum with Shiva Linga inside is seen ahead of the Nandi. The Sanctorum
is at the centre surrounded by the open-to-sky pathway around 3 sides; further
surrounded by the pillared corridor. The entire area of the temple is a treat
to watch. Intricately carved sculptures of Gods, Goddesses, Apsaras, Yakshas,
Nymphs & Celestial Beings are present. These are carved around the Sactorum
outer walls from bottom to top. The “differently colored & styled” Shikhara
can be seen from here. There are sculptures over the top side of the corridor
as well as on pillars.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J-geInV3110/U7LOvP46s5I/AAAAAAAALw4/xl6AzxFCdt8/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J-geInV3110/U7LOvP46s5I/AAAAAAAALw4/xl6AzxFCdt8/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sandstone construction over Black Stone</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SOfw9f53K4g/U7LPjssp_EI/AAAAAAAALxI/SDXY8mc0LNE/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SOfw9f53K4g/U7LPjssp_EI/AAAAAAAALxI/SDXY8mc0LNE/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pillared Corridor surrounding the Sanctum Sanctorum</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjj-cO6yo9Vqzu0SztzCtPDGRH6unA9rpeB9bxzHcvZwi4dDUOtsQKUYto6lFiJKglQ2OMg-FHcMnCnJDoawyEmieHLTK6Z__ptIi8ruqfd7Ay7a6VLAG_LiNrLidIPHXlzTcBXn9bnuu_/s1600/DSC_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjj-cO6yo9Vqzu0SztzCtPDGRH6unA9rpeB9bxzHcvZwi4dDUOtsQKUYto6lFiJKglQ2OMg-FHcMnCnJDoawyEmieHLTK6Z__ptIi8ruqfd7Ay7a6VLAG_LiNrLidIPHXlzTcBXn9bnuu_/s1600/DSC_0031.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This Beauty is posing here since eternity</i></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw3v0HD-PDM/U7LNpMKr_0I/AAAAAAAALww/5f_rc4VtY20/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw3v0HD-PDM/U7LNpMKr_0I/AAAAAAAALww/5f_rc4VtY20/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But the sad part is each statue bears the mark of hammers of
its invaders; each sculpture is destroyed. The sculptures even in their
destroyed form look beautiful. So one can imagine how it would have been
looking centuries ago.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6jK_xgchdpkGGWXOXLDMLHmgykMMA2XrfJ19apkNzDFq6HICvKECV7MUoRcVLNSFjgk51GU92Rm92Qj3qspawFZjp2YH93e6TfchfGOE6TpD_bKAsrJx4MW5kOGk_WnKNcMDlvjC6ZlSp/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6jK_xgchdpkGGWXOXLDMLHmgykMMA2XrfJ19apkNzDFq6HICvKECV7MUoRcVLNSFjgk51GU92Rm92Qj3qspawFZjp2YH93e6TfchfGOE6TpD_bKAsrJx4MW5kOGk_WnKNcMDlvjC6ZlSp/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sculptures adoring the walls of Sanctum Sanctorum</i></td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iFeBfM7Nrw4/U7LSmEktavI/AAAAAAAALx0/at8oibhCM48/s1600/DSC_0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iFeBfM7Nrw4/U7LSmEktavI/AAAAAAAALx0/at8oibhCM48/s1600/DSC_0035.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are murals depicting stories from our epics like
Ramayana & Mahabharata. I could identify the scene of Bharat-Bhet from
Ramayana. One area on the top displays Lord Ganesh in Feminine form (Vinayaki
Pratima). It can be easily identified because of its Trunk & a Mouse as
carrier.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8DMRZFhJtk/U7LPTZMIcpI/AAAAAAAALxA/qfIajCU8uWc/s1600/DSC_0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8DMRZFhJtk/U7LPTZMIcpI/AAAAAAAALxA/qfIajCU8uWc/s1600/DSC_0015.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Mural depicting Bharat-Bhet from Ramayana</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Zg-O7DwwCECFD2fIqVUPkKR1sVy_-9IKnLQ9lg-zG_UziOKsyM1caW6SGSw-y13gZ1u2wHXRFj72euvFWRVjAJGryTqL4hwjM1fB-l2RubJFJnrbXn6eIu4OZvif6dI0rjoOz796CtJH/s1600/DSC_0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Zg-O7DwwCECFD2fIqVUPkKR1sVy_-9IKnLQ9lg-zG_UziOKsyM1caW6SGSw-y13gZ1u2wHXRFj72euvFWRVjAJGryTqL4hwjM1fB-l2RubJFJnrbXn6eIu4OZvif6dI0rjoOz796CtJH/s1600/DSC_0029.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vinayaki - Ganesha in Feminine form</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I saw one dark room at the side. Actually nothing was
visible inside. I just clicked a photo using a flash and this is what I could
see. The sculpture has striking resemblance to Lord Vishnu resting on a
Shesh-Naaga. Lord Vishnu’s form is not clear though.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yMfLBreCQbE/U7LRfsCXRbI/AAAAAAAALxk/nY_F-K21Oqo/s1600/DSC_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yMfLBreCQbE/U7LRfsCXRbI/AAAAAAAALxk/nY_F-K21Oqo/s1600/DSC_0022.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While returning we decided to visit Theur. More info about this Ashtavinaya can be sought <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2013/08/siddhatek-farthest-ashtavinayak-of-all.html" target="_blank">here</a>, our previous trip.</span></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-63422822855143398392014-01-04T13:25:00.000+05:302018-10-04T20:35:52.247+05:30Mecca Of Trekkers - Kokan-kada @ Harishchandragad_December 28-29, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are very few places on this Planet that one must visit at least once in a lifetime - <i><u>the place to be visited before you die</u></i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Harishchandragad is one such place, not more than 150 kms from Pune. And it is because of its magnanimous Kokan Kada. It is aptly said </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">to be भटक्यांची पंढरी in Marathi (means the </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mecca of </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wanderers / Trekkers).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Like thousands of Nomads in Maharashtra, visiting Harishchandragad had been in my mind every since my early college days when I had heard about its Kokan-kada from my friends then.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started from Pune at 5.00 am. Taking other friends along we stopped for a breakfast at Narayangaon (on Pune-Nashik Highway - </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">NH-50</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">). At Narayanpur we took left towards Junnar and then to Khireshwar (off Khubi Phata). Last 4 kms along the Pimpalgaon Joga Dam is pathetic. The complete endurance testing of the vehicle suspension.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-14eEH25FIYg/VC4_loG-3HI/AAAAAAAAMB0/8FLZcSb1Gkw/s1600/WP_000038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-14eEH25FIYg/VC4_loG-3HI/AAAAAAAAMB0/8FLZcSb1Gkw/s1600/WP_000038.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached Khireshwar, base village for Harishchandragad. We parked our vehicles there at a local hotel. Had some tea and started off our trek at 10.30 am.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScN0XqZEVRMhPEO3Ma759U2wxZvkmGprflS7Pw14wbWOvfJ5H2AyXdOu1QwnHZIAUoI__x324lVModrmMgcxsEeLst_EYGlESaXEcTM1fkWag0ZvtKdS36jauTojG_wktCD1cl2pU6fcd/s1600/WP_000037_Route.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScN0XqZEVRMhPEO3Ma759U2wxZvkmGprflS7Pw14wbWOvfJ5H2AyXdOu1QwnHZIAUoI__x324lVModrmMgcxsEeLst_EYGlESaXEcTM1fkWag0ZvtKdS36jauTojG_wktCD1cl2pU6fcd/s1600/WP_000037_Route.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is a long trek. Takes about 5-6 hours to reach the top. It is not difficult, but definitely exhaustive. There is a small rock-patch, which is a slightly difficult portion. However, the whole trek-experience is just awesome. Passing over the large boulders, within a thick cover of green forest, difficult rock patches, etc was a bliss.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Route is like this (also explained the photo above) - Khireshwar to Tolar Khind. At Tolar Khind, another route from Kotul (Ahmednagar district) connects. This can be identified by stone sculpture of a tiger (व्याघ्रशिल्प</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">). From here is the famous Rock Patch of Harishchandragad. After the Rock Patch, the route is quiet simple only without the tree cover. So far the route was through the dense trees.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqy_UIn72AUKAk2nkgrtOaJZyadTYF1Wv9JRE4LspTS-kRxwEm15FZfPJJgpQ5FGJpq_vufKp4fQ3-yQcEQrxGQwFhpFJxcDTGrfNh-oSYujBWOV9rxUkKwFPcbHul9GZDm34MAE_fxyvL/s1600/Harishchandragad+map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqy_UIn72AUKAk2nkgrtOaJZyadTYF1Wv9JRE4LspTS-kRxwEm15FZfPJJgpQ5FGJpq_vufKp4fQ3-yQcEQrxGQwFhpFJxcDTGrfNh-oSYujBWOV9rxUkKwFPcbHul9GZDm34MAE_fxyvL/s1600/Harishchandragad+map.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is another simpler route - from Paachnai. It takes only 2 hours to reach the temple complex (as against 5 hours from Khireshwar). However, Paachnai is about 50 kms more than Khireshwar, if coming from Pune. And secondly, the fun of an exhaustive trek can be experienced only from Khireshwar route.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2-3 more routes are there shown in map above. But these are extremely difficult. Not many are aware of these. Better to take a knowing person along these.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Being an exhaustive trek, the best way to reach here is winter season. Keep adequate amount of water. Since this has to be an overnight trek, some ready to cook food (like Maggi, Rice), utensils. Not to forget bedding as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached the Temple Complex at the top by 3.30 pm; after a rocking 5 hours. The Harishchandreshwar Temple is at the centre which comes to sight as we near the site. It is surrounded by few small temples, a big water body (a pond) and many caves. These caves are used for staying at night by the visitors here. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--9ue2DxAV8o/VC4_oyMgXvI/AAAAAAAAMB8/pK-VprgUYTM/s1600/DSC_0727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--9ue2DxAV8o/VC4_oyMgXvI/AAAAAAAAMB8/pK-VprgUYTM/s1600/DSC_0727.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;"><b>Harishchandreshwar Temple</b></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Being a week-end, we found many temporary</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> shacks by the nearby villagers. They come here on holidays and sell food for the visitors. Even tents and bedding are provided on rent. It is becoming a commercial attraction. No need to carry heavy trekking bags filled with bedding, food & utensils as we did. Everything is available.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We located a cave at the far end. Because of week-end, there was heavy rush and most of the caves were occupied. We were lucky to have one available; & that was awesome, with a water tank just next to it and a place in front to set-up our Chool (चूल)</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> for cooking.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAeacwk4TdU/VC4_bEjx18I/AAAAAAAAMBY/SjOD6pmf7DY/s1600/DSC_0724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NAeacwk4TdU/VC4_bEjx18I/AAAAAAAAMBY/SjOD6pmf7DY/s1600/DSC_0724.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Caves on the top</b></i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After having some food, which we had carried along - Sandwitches, Bananas, Biscuits, etc, we started for Konkan-kada.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-aMyqUxwM_bGtmNr0AhoMtYSecPIQDZP4hLqIiZpTE2neVsn9WgP3WpR6fHAnnw4ZMXngLa-Fu4f77k1RfS9jpSrKzr7i3klm57yKCHuZuaizvx4HJRtksYK3GdTr1qlHzIlkkPump7G9/s1600/DSC_0758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-aMyqUxwM_bGtmNr0AhoMtYSecPIQDZP4hLqIiZpTE2neVsn9WgP3WpR6fHAnnw4ZMXngLa-Fu4f77k1RfS9jpSrKzr7i3klm57yKCHuZuaizvx4HJRtksYK3GdTr1qlHzIlkkPump7G9/s1600/DSC_0758.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;"><b>Temple Complex - view from top (enroute Kokan-kada)</b></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was just waiting to see the place which I'd longed for so long. Same was the feeling in everybody else in our group except 3-4 guys who had been here earlier. We reached there in half an hour from Temple Complex.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kokan-kada is the place which has fascinated many trekkers for so many years. It faces the West & hence Sun-set is enduring here. So it has to be visited in the evenings to see the God going down. Only luck should be favoring and the clouds / fog can be spoil-sport.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When we visited, there was thick covering of clouds. We missed the sun-set. However, still this couldn't snatch away the beauty of the place.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The view from here is ... ... ... actually there are no words, no adjective can give justice to the beauty of this place, no noun can explain its awesomeness. I did click few photos, but even no photo could capture this place in completeness.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Kokan-kada is actually a "C" Shaped cliff and not just vertical, but also an overhang. Just like a hood of a Cobra. It is so high, the one cannot overlook down it, standing. One has to sleep-over and then lean; even that is frightening.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qktXMj3hOww/VM4tnmMUMzI/AAAAAAAAT0s/NPNdU1q9KO8/s1600/1555566_10200560149365483_61826551_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qktXMj3hOww/VM4tnmMUMzI/AAAAAAAAT0s/NPNdU1q9KO8/s1600/1555566_10200560149365483_61826551_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Some photos are below, however a caveat: <span style="color: red;">these photos are nothing compared to the actual:</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Boehgw2Ha-f/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">कोकण कडा, हरिश्चंद्रगड मागे रोहिदास शिखर ... Kokan kada, Harishchandragad (With Rohidas Peak in the back) Kokan-kada is the place which has fascinated many trekkers for so many years. The view from here is ... ... ... actually there are no words, no adjective can give justice to the beauty of this place, no noun can explain its awesomeness. No photo could capture the actual sight. #itsmytravelogue #instalogues #placestoseebeforeyoudie #mustvisitmustsee #mustvisitplace #harishchandragad #harishchandragadtrek #kokankada #meccaoftrekking #trekkerschipandhari</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/instalogues/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Instalogues</a> (@instalogues) on <time datetime="2018-10-03T16:02:03+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 3, 2018 at 9:02am PDT</time></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oOdAlAMW8Q0/VC5ABjnNQ4I/AAAAAAAAMDE/T_Xs2kz8b9k/s1600/DSC_0832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oOdAlAMW8Q0/VC5ABjnNQ4I/AAAAAAAAMDE/T_Xs2kz8b9k/s1600/DSC_0832.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ACJg2gaFKs/VC5AHINzymI/AAAAAAAAMDY/BF5vO3lUkJQ/s1600/DSC_0840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ACJg2gaFKs/VC5AHINzymI/AAAAAAAAMDY/BF5vO3lUkJQ/s1600/DSC_0840.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;"><b>Cobra hood (overhang) is clearly seen here - </b><br />taken by leaning over the cliff, my heart was pumping while <br />doing this ... ;-)</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was / am still mesmerised by the view. A feeling was coming to just stay here till eternity. One can find many people like me in Maharashtra who have came back with this feeling.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/8up8WOTjClk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Just hear the sound of heavy wind in the above video</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here we turned back for our night abode. We had an awesome dinner prepared over a Chool (चूल) by burning the wood-sticks & twigs which we had collected during our return journey.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Night was chilly, however the cave where we were placed was covered, had sufficient place for 10 people & </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">hence warmed-up. The flooring was, however, uneven. Not to forget, we had unexpected visitors - two large fully grown mice were in our cave while we were away at Kokan-kada. We had to frighten them out. And then during preparing our dinner, we had a snake, a small one. It slipped away in the woods.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After "peaceful" sleep, Kokan-kada was still calling us. We again headed there for one last visit before we leave. Filled it up in our eyes, mind, heart & soul and with actually a heavy heart, returned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before leaving the fort, we visited the Harishchandreshwar Temple. This is the main temple of the Fort.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--9ue2DxAV8o/VC4_oyMgXvI/AAAAAAAAMB8/pK-VprgUYTM/s1600/DSC_0727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--9ue2DxAV8o/VC4_oyMgXvI/AAAAAAAAMB8/pK-VprgUYTM/s1600/DSC_0727.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHxB2nYQslcAtjpRbchwVdL2QnjYgClvG6L437h6zMjr4meMmn9LEwLvGj09avds7hBH9QWRXsk4L_9MxLGtJ01AytTCstwU9EZjeHuc2IaURq7uKr_0-dIh8dPMszs0W9SI4OrvlEQqFC/s1600/DSC_0882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHxB2nYQslcAtjpRbchwVdL2QnjYgClvG6L437h6zMjr4meMmn9LEwLvGj09avds7hBH9QWRXsk4L_9MxLGtJ01AytTCstwU9EZjeHuc2IaURq7uKr_0-dIh8dPMszs0W9SI4OrvlEQqFC/s1600/DSC_0882.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Temple is built in Black Stone many centuries ago. It is said that Saint Changdev used to meditate in the caves here during 14th century. There is one stone inscription about Saint Changdev at the entrance of the temple.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QoHANBA8Vo/VM4lwdqbLiI/AAAAAAAAT0Q/L1vw7ugB6_U/s1600/DSC_0880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QoHANBA8Vo/VM4lwdqbLiI/AAAAAAAAT0Q/L1vw7ugB6_U/s1600/DSC_0880.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Temple is surrounded by many caves & water cisterns. Trekkers use these spots for overnight stay.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RthNbOPXj-o/VC4_wocPq8I/AAAAAAAAMCY/_iqwWg-XErc/s1600/DSC_0751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RthNbOPXj-o/VC4_wocPq8I/AAAAAAAAMCY/_iqwWg-XErc/s1600/DSC_0751.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On left side wall of the temple after you enter, there is the famous Ganesh idol. The orange colored idol with the back ground & surroundings of Black Stone looks beautiful. This photo is very famous on the internet.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FaQbNDXDMPs/VC4_t04M1YI/AAAAAAAAMCE/MiKi_h_Vcd0/s1600/DSC_0741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FaQbNDXDMPs/VC4_t04M1YI/AAAAAAAAMCE/MiKi_h_Vcd0/s1600/DSC_0741.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">River Mangal Ganga originates from one of the tanks near this temple. Little ahead of Harishchandreshwar temple by the side of this river is another interesting spot. Again, very famous photo on internet representing Harishchandragad - Kedareshwar Cave & Shiv-Linga. This is a huge cave with a huge Shiv-Linga at the centre surrounded by waist-deep water. W</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">ater is ice-cold. Really chilly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Four pillars are built around Shiv-Ling</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">a. <span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;">Legend says that 4 pillars represent each Yuga (Satyug, Tretayug, Dwaparyug & Kaliyug). When a pillar is destroyed, the Yuga ends. Kaliyug is the current phase. The day 4th pillar breaks down, it will be the last day of this era (world will come to an end).</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Kedareshwar Cave & Shiv-Linga</i></span></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started our return journey. Took the same route back. We reached Khireshwar at 4.30 pm. Since the ladies were still to come, we decided to visit Nageshwar temple which about a km from the village.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It holds a beautiful sculpture of Lord Vishnu in sleeping posture... Shesh-shayee.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #141823; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Shesh-shayee Vishnu</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After stomach full of home made Pithala-Bhakari in the village, we started off our return journey at 6.00 pm. Reached home by 10.00 pm.</span></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Harishchandragad, Maharashtra 42140119.3863889 73.778055600000016-10.1903531 32.469461600000017 48.963130899999996 115.08664960000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-57398376332516354792013-11-16T15:50:00.000+05:302014-03-30T14:42:40.232+05:30Cinematographic Wai - Menavali_November 6, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had a "real" long Diwali Holidays to our Company - 9 days - long enough to make all others, JEALOUS ;-)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We colleagues decided to plan a one day trip after Diwali. Wai-Menavali-Dhom Dam was decided immediately.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started off from Padmavati in Pune in a Santro at 6.30 am. We took the NH-4 (Pune-Bangalore Highway) - the new road bypassing Katraj Ghat.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-23dCvpKZfLk/UodPzJTAsjI/AAAAAAAALew/cwElAuKQtoE/s1600/DSC_0512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-23dCvpKZfLk/UodPzJTAsjI/AAAAAAAALew/cwElAuKQtoE/s400/DSC_0512.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By 8.30 am we were having breakfast at the Wai exit on NH-4. Wai from here is about 13 kms. Road is single lane, graced by large banyan trees on both sides. However, traffic is seen for obvious reasons - Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani, the most sought after Hill Stations for people Maharashtrians & Gujaratis of this side. Just before, there is a diversion towards Right for Wai Town from the main Mahabaleshwar Road.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wai (वाई</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) is famous for its Maha-Ganapati Temple on the banks of River Krishna (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">कृष्णा नदी)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. Also called as Dholya Ganapati (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ढोल्या गणपती</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) considering the size of the idol. It is HUGE. Carved out of single black stone along with a large back rest. It is beautifully painted. Photography inside is not allowed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The temple was built in the year 1762.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSz8AQU9b8o/UzfbZ4svwQI/AAAAAAAALlc/cD8_u2T_0sA/s1600/DSC_0421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSz8AQU9b8o/UzfbZ4svwQI/AAAAAAAALlc/cD8_u2T_0sA/s1600/DSC_0421.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Maha-Ganapati Temple of Wai - Dholya Ganapati</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next to the Ganesh Temple is the Shiva Temple - Kashi-Vishweshwar. It is said that the Nandi here is made out of same stone from which Shiv-Linga is made.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By the side, some idols & a Shiv-Linga is kept in a make-shift area. These idols are actually from Ganakeshwar Temple, which got submerged below Dhom Dam (ढोम धरण</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) backwaters when the Dam was made operational.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5fXSUPJcKdA/UzfbXQHBX3I/AAAAAAAALlU/J4uXjLhBNBE/s1600/DSC_0415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5fXSUPJcKdA/UzfbXQHBX3I/AAAAAAAALlU/J4uXjLhBNBE/s1600/DSC_0415.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Kashi-Vishweshwar Temple - Wai</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But the beauty of this place lies 3 kms ahead. There is this place called Menavali (मेणवली) </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ahead on the same road from Wai. This is the place where Nana Phadnavis (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">नाना फडणवीस</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">), one of the influential statesman of Peshwas (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">पेशवे)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, built a Wada (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">वाडा)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> on the banks of River Krishna. It's been 230 years since, that this place is still present to tell us the History. It must have been witness to many diplomatic discussion that Nana had while directing the affairs of Maratha Empire in the midst of internal disputes.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_-tTrbvc8U/UocrmHA0R2I/AAAAAAAALbU/pVnv05H2UJ4/s1600/DSC_0423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_-tTrbvc8U/UocrmHA0R2I/AAAAAAAALbU/pVnv05H2UJ4/s400/DSC_0423.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next to this Wada, is a tree with a massive trunk. Just see the photo, how tiny a human looks in front of it. A platform is constructed around it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This tree & the parts of Wada were seen in the Hindi movie Swades - The Panchayat Scene.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eRJL2rmdxAg/Uzfczd8FsMI/AAAAAAAALmU/_EFiEA14-Jw/s1600/DSC_0462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eRJL2rmdxAg/Uzfczd8FsMI/AAAAAAAALmU/_EFiEA14-Jw/s1600/DSC_0462.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Menavali - Nana Phadnavis Wada - Outsides</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Wada by itself is in a fairly good condition. Some areas are delapidated though. Descendants of Nana Phadnavis own this property, its items & the Ghat behind. There was family staying by the side; they might be the family of the watchman there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We could go inside its compound. On the left we could see a large open square. Two storeyed structure is seen. On the right however, condition is not good.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We could not enter the rooms. They open at 11.00 am. There are some old documents, antique items like wooden bed inside. The interiors of this Wada can be seen in the Hindi Movie Mrityudand.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had reached here at 9.45 am. Hence we decided to skip interiors this time. I would visit sometime later again.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNXQR17D-afBr4BMfUQeolFwHZ8ZGLJY81LbwER-JZXnK5eMBSmW3SiPEaf6wuU3QxhtCGDButjoUX1cZ_Snz3VuI4NBViXxqaqbwTW5Fsz8J3YdU3ALYVBx2IHLss4hUszH9J-h9tkVU/s1600/DSC_0433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNXQR17D-afBr4BMfUQeolFwHZ8ZGLJY81LbwER-JZXnK5eMBSmW3SiPEaf6wuU3QxhtCGDButjoUX1cZ_Snz3VuI4NBViXxqaqbwTW5Fsz8J3YdU3ALYVBx2IHLss4hUszH9J-h9tkVU/s1600/DSC_0433.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Menavali - </i><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Nana Phadnavis Wada - Insides</i></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrcPsFEnSp6KWL25uzRDEFWxZbtte5jW36kAH3vThLJ290WdBPIEOHYb348MU-opBg9QE0hlZlo8HEPSt1YNqrMXNbSsqcBW0d5vEOyghmGPMMhl-AMmU0oo1AIBNXtq5hhkxEIvrtPgf/s1600/DSC_0431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrcPsFEnSp6KWL25uzRDEFWxZbtte5jW36kAH3vThLJ290WdBPIEOHYb348MU-opBg9QE0hlZlo8HEPSt1YNqrMXNbSsqcBW0d5vEOyghmGPMMhl-AMmU0oo1AIBNXtq5hhkxEIvrtPgf/s1600/DSC_0431.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-65gwbYWwj3w/UzfbhJS6ijI/AAAAAAAALlk/UK2xZBD8wV0/s1600/DSC_0430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-65gwbYWwj3w/UzfbhJS6ijI/AAAAAAAALlk/UK2xZBD8wV0/s1600/DSC_0430.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6M89h8MQJf0/UocrperAxiI/AAAAAAAALbc/BpMZe1ihWho/s1600/DSC_0426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6M89h8MQJf0/UocrperAxiI/AAAAAAAALbc/BpMZe1ihWho/s400/DSC_0426.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Information Board - Nana Phadnavis Wada</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just behind the Wada is the most picturesque location of this entire trip. Menavali Ghat (घाट</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) on the banks of River Krishna. Stepping here, a film buff would start recollecting scenes from Hindi movies like - Entry Scene of Singham, Climax of Gangaajal, Bol Bachchan, etc.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0nWSc2gIpMg/Uzfb7woda1I/AAAAAAAALls/ZVWPvPPUWAg/s1600/DSC_0437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0nWSc2gIpMg/Uzfb7woda1I/AAAAAAAALls/ZVWPvPPUWAg/s1600/DSC_0437.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Menavali Ghat (Krishna River)</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are two temples - one of Lord Vishnu & other of Meneshwar (Lord Shiva). There is a bell house in front of Meneshwar which has a large bell with carving of Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms. It is made of five-alloys & said to be of 650 kgs. It was captured by Chimaji Appa (brother of Bajirao Peshwe - I) from Portuguese in Vasai.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL6kfZMmigbO3CERExnXsOfQ-59aZpKcPIVMbbTWs3PE2IcVd3906BhaLGJHvToMs4UQ7I2rmEAP3_Xhs3ggcxxHg4lhK9tzNhmJE12sCK-1NRCLdFby0vtddYphwo9rf1j-QSpn30m7gr/s1600/DSC_0447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL6kfZMmigbO3CERExnXsOfQ-59aZpKcPIVMbbTWs3PE2IcVd3906BhaLGJHvToMs4UQ7I2rmEAP3_Xhs3ggcxxHg4lhK9tzNhmJE12sCK-1NRCLdFby0vtddYphwo9rf1j-QSpn30m7gr/s1600/DSC_0447.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ghanta-ghar</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xv_-0QyGM-0/UzfcXfV__OI/AAAAAAAALmE/a3G8p3hjA3c/s1600/DSC_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xv_-0QyGM-0/UzfcXfV__OI/AAAAAAAALmE/a3G8p3hjA3c/s1600/DSC_0450.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Meneshwar Mahadev Temple<br />(with Ghanta-ghar - </i><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bell House</span></i><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> in front)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFZ0-WA53ws/UocsBTY70xI/AAAAAAAALcU/QSvfqtGufLA/s1600/DSC_0457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFZ0-WA53ws/UocsBTY70xI/AAAAAAAALcU/QSvfqtGufLA/s1600/DSC_0457.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Meneshwar Mahadev - Shiv Linga</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Shiv-Linga is located about 5-6 steps below. There is complete dark out there. I was not able to see anything at all. Somewhere in mind was a fear; don't know what is there inside. It was that dark. Carrying a torch inside is requested.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The photo above is taken blindly with just a camera flash. I tried 3 photos to get it right at the centre.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wh76ReI_QJQ/UocsGhMt7AI/AAAAAAAALcc/1vD-5Y0vOKM/s1600/DSC_0460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wh76ReI_QJQ/UocsGhMt7AI/AAAAAAAALcc/1vD-5Y0vOKM/s400/DSC_0460.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Climax of movie Gangaajal shot here</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--oSRrqMu12I/Uzfc6-L9NXI/AAAAAAAALmc/APSRnSTEV2w/s1600/DSC_0464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--oSRrqMu12I/Uzfc6-L9NXI/AAAAAAAALmc/APSRnSTEV2w/s1600/DSC_0464.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Village kids posing near two Nandis left<br />there out of some film shooting</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was about 10.45 am when we left for Dhom Dam. Another 6-7 kms from Menavali starts the Dhom Dam wall. Need to pass ahead of Dhom village. But before the dam, there is another piece of our glorious history. Dhomeshwar Mahadev & Laxmi-Narasimha Temple.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE653BMxnzFimuuHGvnn4hTSZw75DIlfeB410y9iKLNyDlyG6BTLs8WGS1GHbmP3_qdkiIccD-vQhS5AHQY7K9uOOX1Aa4JW-TtAaaiwvIkVD-KVF2s8slera3AUMVf2Q8BKmCWF4LaQ6D/s1600/DSC_0486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE653BMxnzFimuuHGvnn4hTSZw75DIlfeB410y9iKLNyDlyG6BTLs8WGS1GHbmP3_qdkiIccD-vQhS5AHQY7K9uOOX1Aa4JW-TtAaaiwvIkVD-KVF2s8slera3AUMVf2Q8BKmCWF4LaQ6D/s1600/DSC_0486.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dhomeshwar Mahadev & Laxmi-Narasimha Temple - Entrance</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once reaching the road at the base of earthen dam wall, take a left and again a left to road that descends down within the trees. Signboards for Laxmi-Narasimha are available from Dhom village.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is a complex that houses two temples - Dhomeshwar Temple said to be from the times of Paandavas AND Laxmi-Narasimha Temple built by the Peshwas.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8-amyN14QI/UzfdM7ET4HI/AAAAAAAALmk/fXWbNVOWlbM/s1600/DSC_0466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8-amyN14QI/UzfdM7ET4HI/AAAAAAAALmk/fXWbNVOWlbM/s1600/DSC_0466.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Master Sculpture </i><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">@ Dhomeshwar Mahadev Temple</i><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />(Nandi on Tortoise back in a Lotus Pond)</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is one very different sculpture. Nandi in front of Shiva Temple is mounted on a Tortoise back. It's a huge tortoise over Lotus shaped pond. All this made out of black stone.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZWIoazyl3Lw8PhcdTdoDWmpKHq6ADbLGrQzULpyk4c0P9HimOVLGxXUXtOpKQmsqgaI22KZU8QUS2xW6ypP9NhYl6zP2Rf24HjpokRdMlxRG0K9dQ9YGhImiUGGhOqKoMalbDAl4jSc7/s1600/DSC_0467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZWIoazyl3Lw8PhcdTdoDWmpKHq6ADbLGrQzULpyk4c0P9HimOVLGxXUXtOpKQmsqgaI22KZU8QUS2xW6ypP9NhYl6zP2Rf24HjpokRdMlxRG0K9dQ9YGhImiUGGhOqKoMalbDAl4jSc7/s1600/DSC_0467.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During one day in a year, the day Lord Narasimha appeared as per Shaastras, the pond is filled-up with water. At that time, it might appear as if the tortoise is swimming on water surface.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RVKPG-Nbj5M/UzfdVUs8bmI/AAAAAAAALms/aNql50ThFXc/s1600/DSC_0468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RVKPG-Nbj5M/UzfdVUs8bmI/AAAAAAAALms/aNql50ThFXc/s1600/DSC_0468.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dhomeshwar Mahadev</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The main temple is intricately carved. It is built over a platform, need to climb 3-4 steps. Below the steps there is a small window, through which one can see a water cistern. The priest told us, it is actually a pond; the temple is built over a water body.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Climbing the steps are three arches behind which is the Garbha-griha.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VTOeTnFcBUo/UzfduBl_fzI/AAAAAAAALnE/D7Modmf0RlI/s1600/DSC_0473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VTOeTnFcBUo/UzfduBl_fzI/AAAAAAAALnE/D7Modmf0RlI/s1600/DSC_0473.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is a Well beneath, opposite the temple (left side as you enter the main entrance - pictured above). Need to climb down 7-8 steps. Water from here flows out of a Go-mukh (गोमुख)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, about 30-50 meters away into a pond. However the area around that Go-mukh is not worth taking a photo even. Cleanliness drive of the water body is urgently required.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nZu73p5zW7M/Uzfd48FnFJI/AAAAAAAALnM/1XzxFeYkpXk/s1600/DSC_0484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nZu73p5zW7M/Uzfd48FnFJI/AAAAAAAALnM/1XzxFeYkpXk/s1600/DSC_0484.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dhomeshwar Mahadev - Temple Complex</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Opposite Shiva Temple on Left is a circular construction. It is the Laxmi-Narasimha Temple, built by the Peshwas. Unique here is that there are two idols of Laxmi-Narasimha back-to-back. Narasimha here is in its two forms, with Goddess Laxmi sitting on his left thigh.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i0TqgUhoMng/UocsfgBdNwI/AAAAAAAALdc/fIEsAUzXZWs/s1600/DSC_0478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i0TqgUhoMng/UocsfgBdNwI/AAAAAAAALdc/fIEsAUzXZWs/s400/DSC_0478.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Laxmi-Narasimha Temple</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One form is of Ugra Roop (Angry Form), with Hiranyakashyapu (हिरण्यकश्यपु) lying on his thighs & Narasimha tearing his stomach with bare hands.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The other form is the Shanta Roop (Peaceful form).</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhhGLepBfbBubMUEPVK4gpSFxu5a8ucZYrd2nzeOUwB5GwIa_cjJ_rUrbMSs-OhJecdVZjY4w-c1ifE2XSVhbd8yX7VUqAX2C4gLkMt82QyLnx87Shg0LaISpoqCEL6kMMLjZ900tFJ_qs/s1600/DSC_0475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhhGLepBfbBubMUEPVK4gpSFxu5a8ucZYrd2nzeOUwB5GwIa_cjJ_rUrbMSs-OhJecdVZjY4w-c1ifE2XSVhbd8yX7VUqAX2C4gLkMt82QyLnx87Shg0LaISpoqCEL6kMMLjZ900tFJ_qs/s400/DSC_0475.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Narasimha - Ugra Roop</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukLVidQ2r14/UocsdsXO4SI/AAAAAAAALdU/shdRICtQE28/s1600/DSC_0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukLVidQ2r14/UocsdsXO4SI/AAAAAAAALdU/shdRICtQE28/s400/DSC_0476.JPG" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Narasimha - Shanta Roop</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There was another unique sculpture that I haven't seen anywhere yet. A Face Scuplture of Paandavas. Four faces are on the sides, facing outwards & fifth face is on top, facing the sky.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking at it, I felt as if its our answer to the USAs Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. And how old is Mount Rushmore? Only about 90 years!!! (it was built just recently in 1925). ;-)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzaDvAg9LYw/UzfdrtD56WI/AAAAAAAALm8/99J0BK3DJkk/s1600/DSC_0482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzaDvAg9LYw/UzfdrtD56WI/AAAAAAAALm8/99J0BK3DJkk/s1600/DSC_0482.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Face Sculpture - Paandavas (2 faces are at the back)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ugttvnlz3s/UzfeP0pN7BI/AAAAAAAALnc/qxNuTh-pdvc/s1600/DSC_0485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ugttvnlz3s/UzfeP0pN7BI/AAAAAAAALnc/qxNuTh-pdvc/s1600/DSC_0485.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">loved these colors</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We turned back till the dam-wall road. Climbed a bit on the wall and view was breathtaking.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ikBziQB6uzk/Uzfe6GpgoBI/AAAAAAAALn8/nejhQXp4Y_A/s1600/Untitled_Panorama1_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ikBziQB6uzk/Uzfe6GpgoBI/AAAAAAAALn8/nejhQXp4Y_A/s1600/Untitled_Panorama1_1.JPG" height="95" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Panorama - Dhom Dam<br />(Kamalgad at the centre)</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dhom Dam backwaters were in front of us with Kamalgad at the centre. I tried capturing the entire scene by 4 photo panorama above.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Exactly behind me is Paandavgad.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g9BfeV_Zzdk/UzfeQNyXe6I/AAAAAAAALnY/65Cam0ZNxTw/s1600/DSC_0499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g9BfeV_Zzdk/UzfeQNyXe6I/AAAAAAAALnY/65Cam0ZNxTw/s1600/DSC_0499.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Photographer in me awakens ... ;-)</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was hardly 12 noon. And our planned places had finished. Now we were discussing another possible place. There was Limb-sheri near Satara (Baara Motaachi Vihir), Kaas-Bamnoli, Thoseghar, Panchgani. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We decided to go to Panchgani (पाचगणी), have something at Mapros, visit few Points, have a lunch & return.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, being Diwali holidays, there was mad rush. Heavy traffic jams in between. Mapros was jam-packed - inside and outside also. We dropped the idea & planned to go ahead to Mahabaleshwar. There was the same scene. Th road to Kates Point & Echo Point (which is really small) was packed due to traffic. We also dropped the idea of seeing any Points.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had a lunch at a hotel near Mahabaleshwar market. Had a small stroll in the market post-lunch. By the time we decided to leave, the rush had started to increase. So we decided to go ahead via Poladpur in Konkan on NH-17 instead of turning back all through traffic jams. O</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">n the way is Fort Pratapgad. Hence it got added in our itinerary.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pratapgad is that part of our history, for which each one of us are & should be proud of. It is a witness to the battle that was fought at its foot in the year 1659 - Battle of Pratapgad.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Adilshah of Bijapur had sent Afzal Khan to lead an assault against Shivaji Maharaj in order to curb the growing Maratha threat. Shivaji at that time was at Pratapgad. Afzal Khan therefore moved his forces towards here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During peace-discussions between Shivaji & Afzal Khan, Khan made a life attempt on Shivaji. Shivaji was prepared for this & responded; killing Khan by a single stroke of Wagh-Nakhi. A battle erupted soon after ending with a decisive victory of Marathas over Adilshahi forces.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Afzal Khan was burried as per Islamic customs & a tomb built at the foothills. This was Shivaji's philosophy - "Once the enemy is dead, enmity is dead too".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This tomb was open to see earlier, but now due to a controversy, it is closed for tourists since past 7-8 years.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We ascended the Ambenali Ghat (अंबेनळी घाट</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) which connects Mahabaleshwar with Poladpur on NH-17. In between is a way on left towards Pratapgad. Fort is accessible by road. Spacious parking is available. However, people visiting are in so large numbers (due to Mahabaleshwar nearby), that the parking falls short now. Mostly on holidays, cars have to be parked on the sides of narrow road, which creates more traffic problems.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYJG95o_yp0/UzfexFAp48I/AAAAAAAALn0/8bXF31DdS48/s1600/DSC_0515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYJG95o_yp0/UzfexFAp48I/AAAAAAAALn0/8bXF31DdS48/s1600/DSC_0515.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">किल्ले प्रतापगड</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fort from here is very easy to climb. Well-cut steps are there till the top. After the Main Entrance, comes the highlight of Pratapgad - Mahadwar Maachi or Afzal Maachi. Due to shortage of time, we could not see the entire fort. We went a little ahead to capture a snap of this Maachi & we turned back.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Above this Maachi is the Citadel which houses a Bhavani Mata Temple, Life-size statue of Shivaji. There are many sites to see on the fort. All these on my next visit. Guides are also available who can take you around the fort with some information.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1MJ6vXNDB5fvZMICjJKvqOebFXh9f_jM_FtSutIIMAy25_obP_18E8tHuJvdriSu3vr82iSl4BiQByknXUyfc0nthTgDxQI15vlnMI_JPPoKIoTrVZffrcX9ch4oyTLtsiMvcTm-D5qUn/s1600/DSC_0519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1MJ6vXNDB5fvZMICjJKvqOebFXh9f_jM_FtSutIIMAy25_obP_18E8tHuJvdriSu3vr82iSl4BiQByknXUyfc0nthTgDxQI15vlnMI_JPPoKIoTrVZffrcX9ch4oyTLtsiMvcTm-D5qUn/s1600/DSC_0519.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mahadwar Maachi (Afzal Maachi) -<br />Afzal Khan's Tomb can be seen on the right</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started our return journey from Pratapgad at around 5.15 pm. We went to Poladpur on NH-17 and joined the Varandha Ghat from Mahaad. Reached the NH-4 again at Kapurhol. We avoided traffic at Mahabaleshwar but landed in pathetic road on this Varandha route.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We reached back in Pune at 9.30 pm.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Odo Readings:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">0 kms Padmavati, Pune</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">20 Khed Shivapur Toll</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">34 Kapurhole</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">71 Wai / Surur Phata (Exit)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">84 Wai</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">88 Menavali</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">95 Dhom Dam</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">113 Panchgani</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">130 Mahabaleshwar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">154 Pratapgad</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">180 Poladpur</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">193 Mahad</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">290 </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Khed Shivapur Toll</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">310 Padmavati, Pune</span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Map:</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gDbzCzVPYm4/UoiM1W_yXAI/AAAAAAAALfg/KGH5TeCFuZc/s1600/Wai-Menavali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gDbzCzVPYm4/UoiM1W_yXAI/AAAAAAAALfg/KGH5TeCFuZc/s400/Wai-Menavali.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com4Wai, Maharashtra, India17.9486823 73.89188969999997917.9184708 73.85154919999998 17.9788938 73.932230199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-46311934774978066922013-11-16T13:03:00.001+05:302018-10-04T20:41:22.033+05:30Saurashtra - Land of Hundred Kingdoms_September 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Saurashtra is the bottom peninsula of Gujarat State. It means "The Land of Hundred Kingdoms" - Sau=Hundred & Rashtra=Kingdom / Country. And actually after India's independence, 217 Princely States were merged to form state of Saurashtra. It later on became part of Bombay State & then of Gujarat after division of Bombay.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We started our journey from Pune in the evening. Morning at 6 am we reached Baroda. There is one train daily from Pune towards Ahmedabad via Baroda. After getting out of Baroda Railway Station move towards Left. Private Buses ply from here towards Bhavnagar, an important city of Saurashtra after Rajkot. Bhavnagar is 4 hours away from Baroda.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bhavnager is named after its founder Bhavsinhji Gohil. Its was a Princely State before Indian Independence & said to be the first in the country to get merged into the Union of India.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is said to be Cultural Capital of Saurashtra. It is an important centre for Diamond Cutting & Polishing Industry & stands second in India after Surat. Alang Ship Breaking Yard here is the largest in World (about 50% of World Ships are salvaged here).</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>23-Sep-13:</u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We spent an evening in Bhavnagar Darshan.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First we visited <b>Khodiyaar Temple</b> which is situated at the outskirts of the City (Rajpara Village). It is an abode to the Goddess Khodiyaar whom the people of Gujarat & Rajasthan believe in.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vMkzFOWfcgA/VXG2RftiaGI/AAAAAAAAT3g/XFC7Dq1m1L4/s1600/DSC_0145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vMkzFOWfcgA/VXG2RftiaGI/AAAAAAAAT3g/XFC7Dq1m1L4/s400/DSC_0145.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--OWEmRIFNF8/VXG2PRIL06I/AAAAAAAAT3Y/WzMyJn9BXF4/s1600/DSC_0139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--OWEmRIFNF8/VXG2PRIL06I/AAAAAAAAT3Y/WzMyJn9BXF4/s400/DSC_0139.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Lake by the Side Khodiyar Temple</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Bor-Talaav or Gaurishankar Lake</b> (named after Deewan of Bhavnagar) is one of the most visited places of Bhavnagaris. At one time it was used to be a source of water supply for the City. There is huge model of a Ship constructed on other side of Dam Wall. I remember when I had seen it 25 years ago, it was awesome & beautiful. When the water might be flowing over the dam, it might be giving a feeling as if it is floating over water. Now, the condition is pathetic.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TTEA8kUbPp0/VXG2Z5c1XbI/AAAAAAAAT34/JENrphLWqJE/s1600/DSC_0156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TTEA8kUbPp0/VXG2Z5c1XbI/AAAAAAAAT34/JENrphLWqJE/s400/DSC_0156.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a big bungalow of the Royal Family on the banks of this lake. It is still in use as a holiday home.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-_y3kvVxlY/VXG2XNQVyAI/AAAAAAAAT3w/7rvdLwXL5jk/s1600/DSC_0153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-_y3kvVxlY/VXG2XNQVyAI/AAAAAAAAT3w/7rvdLwXL5jk/s400/DSC_0153.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is a Shiva Temple as well by the name Thapnath Mahadeo.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A large Boot (like the one in Mumbai Hanging Gargens) also grabs one's attention; but again the condition is no good.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m5uFpzRI8TM/VXG2UI6QHuI/AAAAAAAAT3o/KHdOe0GgBSw/s1600/DSC_0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m5uFpzRI8TM/VXG2UI6QHuI/AAAAAAAAT3o/KHdOe0GgBSw/s400/DSC_0152.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Bara-Sau Mahadeo</b>: Literally 1200 Mahadeo is a small temple dedicated to Shiva & is said to have 1200 Shiv-Lingas properly placed on a stepped conical structure. It is a unique place; normally we don't see such type of a temple / arrangement.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yCyMV2YntuE/VXG2cd8roMI/AAAAAAAAT4A/WO2KmJjTAOQ/s1600/DSC_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yCyMV2YntuE/VXG2cd8roMI/AAAAAAAAT4A/WO2KmJjTAOQ/s400/DSC_0168.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Takhteshwar</b> is the marble temple of Shiva situated on a hillock within the City. It is the highest point in the City & a 360 deg view looks beautiful. It is another most visited place by the locals.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HeSbzyljQv0/VXG2fcIjj0I/AAAAAAAAT4I/tCH0vFx3ovk/s1600/DSC_0173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HeSbzyljQv0/VXG2fcIjj0I/AAAAAAAAT4I/tCH0vFx3ovk/s400/DSC_0173.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>24-Sep-13:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next morning, we started our Saurashtra journey. We had booked a Tavera & started off at 6 am. We decided to move towards Porbandar, left most coast of Gujarat. Distance covered about 310 kms. We took the route --> Bavnagar - Sihor - Gondal - Porbandar.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We reached Porbandar at 1 pm. We were scorching for an hotel when we came across Hotel Raghukul which provides AC Dormitory & Dining on MG Road. It was a nice place & budget too (Rs. 200 per person per day).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a brief rest, we started for Porbandar Darshan in the evening.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BoahRdonjeE/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Instalogues (@instalogues)</a> on <time datetime="2018-10-02T02:43:00+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 1, 2018 at 7:43pm PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First in the list was an obvious place - <b>Kirti Mandir, Mahatma Gandhi's Birth Place</b>. It is located at the crowded location in the heart of the City. However, it is well-maintained & extremely clean. It houses the ancestral structure of the Gandhi Family, the place where Gandhiji was born.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bs9U5v6IKHg/VXG2u_apzfI/AAAAAAAAT44/uqeOkLfSGDM/s1600/DSC_0207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bs9U5v6IKHg/VXG2u_apzfI/AAAAAAAAT44/uqeOkLfSGDM/s400/DSC_0207.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Kirti Mandir - Main Entrance</i></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0EEJ6eMDGLm3HjYbligas43IpxzrbpVuWbRegXulDnWkSkHuej4DpVkWF6qhG_d1MC0vU0INtJ8jaEltoepBz1Xpnvj8K_NgRRZ8rwO_T2EN9E0uGgyi1vYWR0UVfATnfhvzniOjhOCj/s1600/DSC_0206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF0EEJ6eMDGLm3HjYbligas43IpxzrbpVuWbRegXulDnWkSkHuej4DpVkWF6qhG_d1MC0vU0INtJ8jaEltoepBz1Xpnvj8K_NgRRZ8rwO_T2EN9E0uGgyi1vYWR0UVfATnfhvzniOjhOCj/s400/DSC_0206.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IRNN5Fi6yBY/VXG2nHvD70I/AAAAAAAAT4g/GfhhPKZKBCY/s1600/DSC_0198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IRNN5Fi6yBY/VXG2nHvD70I/AAAAAAAAT4g/GfhhPKZKBCY/s400/DSC_0198.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Ancestral House of Gandhis</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C7V4BgMGh3E/VXG2hkAuWqI/AAAAAAAAT4Q/LsH7pyOmzps/s1600/DSC_0186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C7V4BgMGh3E/VXG2hkAuWqI/AAAAAAAAT4Q/LsH7pyOmzps/s400/DSC_0186.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Place where Gandhiji was born</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Alzfpf0koX8/VXG2khOcokI/AAAAAAAAT4Y/trOaiKE5AJI/s1600/DSC_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Alzfpf0koX8/VXG2khOcokI/AAAAAAAAT4Y/trOaiKE5AJI/s400/DSC_0188.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Interiors of Ancestral House of Gandhis</i></td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lXwNyVCxpiI/VXG2pJivYFI/AAAAAAAAT4o/igmoACjqCiU/s1600/DSC_0204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lXwNyVCxpiI/VXG2pJivYFI/AAAAAAAAT4o/igmoACjqCiU/s400/DSC_0204.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Lane of Kirti Mandir</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Sudama Temple</b>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nearby is another place by the name Sudama Puri which houses Sudama Temple. Apart from Gandhiji, Porbandar is the birthplace of Lord Krishna's friend Sudama. Sudama used to stay at this place. It houses a temple dedicated to Sudama apart from few other temples and a Pigeon Square (one can buy grains for the pigeons). The most interesting structure is the "Sudama-ji ki Laksh Chaurashi Parikrama". It is simple maze which people believe, if they walk through it, they will attain Moksha. It's a fun walking through it.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Sudama-ji ki Laksh Chaurashi Parikrama</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Rokadiya Hanuman</b>: This is a temple slightly in outskirts of the City. One can go till the top of the temple.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Porbandar Beach</b>: Nice place to relax & have a walk. The beach as such is not good for playing in the Sea. It is rocky & not clean. The road by the beach side is called Marine Drive (not like the one in Mumbai though). There are many hotels lined up along, facing the sea. We had herbal tea here (it was similar to Kashmiri tea - Kahwa).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There was one huge Ship sunk in the sea and flown on this shore. It was lying there for many days & some people were working on it. It also covered-up most of the beach area & was disturbing the view & causing a nuisance actually.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Porbandar has large number of old buildings reminiscing the era that have gone by.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>25-Sep-13:</u></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />Next day morning, we started-off to Dwarka. The route from Porbandar to Dwarka is awesome; it is coastal road with wind-mills all along.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9TabbGk5BIw/VXG3WK3OI3I/AAAAAAAAT6Y/rPcVg68h-m8/s1600/DSC_0337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9TabbGk5BIw/VXG3WK3OI3I/AAAAAAAAT6Y/rPcVg68h-m8/s400/DSC_0337.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the way there is a place by the name Miyani (about 30 kms from Porbandar). It has a temple of Goddess Harsiddhi Mata (also known as </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Harshad)</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> on a hill called Koyla Dungar. Need to climb about 100 steps. But the view atop is breath-taking - with a vast Arabian Sea on one side and the back-waters on the other with a bridge connecting two land-masses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is said that this temple is built by Lord Krishna himself after he defeated Jarasandha. Harsiddhi Mata is said to be Kuldevi of Yadavas, clan of Lord Krishna.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is a small temple seem to be built of Sandstone. It has some sculptures carved out on it. It is built on a platform with a climb of about 15 steps. I</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After spending about 1/2 an hour, we descended down & started our onward journey to Dwarka - Gateway to Heaven (<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">'Dwar' means "gate" and 'Ka' means "Brahma"</span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">). Dwarka is among the Sapta-Puris - 7 most religious ancient cities of India (Ayodhya, Mathura, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kanchipuram, Ujjain & Dwarka).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is also amongst the Char-Dhams - Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri & Rameswaram. It is situated at the west-most point of Saurashtra Peninsula.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lord Krishna migrated from Mathura & settled in Dwarka & ruled this place. It was said that the City was so flourished</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> that it was referred to as the <b>City made of Gold</b>. It is said that after the death of Krishna, there was misgovernance & mayhem within his people. Finally, Dwarka was destroyed - it got submerged under the sea.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What we see now is the Dwarka that got developed later on gradually. Even few Marine Archaeological investigations have revealed proofs under the sea surface. There are signs of a construction which can be a Port which is now beneath the sea. Actually, investigators found out two large cities twice the size of Manhatten inside. These are thousands of years old. Some of the Artifacts retrieved in Gulf of Khambata are about 32,000 years old. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">However, when we asked to the Boatman there, he said he doesn't know anything about old Dwarka having submerged in sea; as per him, it is just a story with no proofs</span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">). Truly, Dwarka is "Atlantis of the East".</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The residing deity, Lord Krishna, is referred as Dwarkadheesh (King of Dwarka) here. The Dwarkadheesh Temple is situated on the banks of River Gomati.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is a huge temple, 5 storeyed made of Sand-stone and is said to have about 72 pillars. The temple is laced with intricate carvings all around. The original temple was built by Lord Krishna's grandson, Vajranabha, over the Residential Palace. Archaeological findings prove that it is about 2200 years old; however the existing temple is dated to 16th century.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The temple spire houses a large flag with Sun & Moon on it. It depicts the Temple will stand tall till Sun & Moon shine in the sky. The triangular flag is changed 5 times a day with new flag every time. The devotees pay hefty sums to purchase this flag for hoisting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is recommended to check the Darshan Timings. Darshan of Dwarkadheesh can be made only at specific times of the day. Apart from Lord Krishna, temples of his wives are also in the complex - Satyabhama, Jambuvanti, Laxmi, Saraswati & Radhika (not his wife).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After darshan at Dwarka, we proceeded tow</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ards Bet Dwarka. As the name suggests, it is another Dwarka located on a island. <span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.4px;">Bet Dwarka is considered as the part of original Dwarka which </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">got submerged under the sea. Bet Dwarka also has a temple dedicated to Dwarkadheesh; the temple is much smaller though, compared to the one at Dwarka.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bet Dwarka can be reached by a Ferry from Okha which is about 30 kms away from Dwarka. Ferry ride is about 2 kms.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, I felt there is heavy loot by the Ferry owners. Since the Dwarkadheesh Darshan can be done on specific timings, they charge hefty sums from tourists to reach Temple in time. If you miss the Darshan time, you'll have to wait for another 2-3 hours for doors to open.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After darshan at Bet Dwarka, we returned on the same road. Our destination now was Somnath (one of the 12 Jyotirlingas). On the way near Dwarka, however, is another Shiva Temple - Nageshwar. Some say that it is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas; however, there is a dispute. It is mentioned in one Sholka - <span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; line-height: 22.4px;">सेतुबन्धे तु रामेशं <span style="color: purple;">नागेशं दारुकावने</span>॥ People of various opinions about this Nagesham Darukavane.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l955b1KesCY/V9UDO_cOUhI/AAAAAAAAVMQ/MWSjUbKakTwpW4DHU3lOyI3nfBXQKCt_wCPcB/s1600/DSC_0333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l955b1KesCY/V9UDO_cOUhI/AAAAAAAAVMQ/MWSjUbKakTwpW4DHU3lOyI3nfBXQKCt_wCPcB/s400/DSC_0333.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Large Shiva statue in Nageshwar Temple campus</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">Now, whether Jyotirlinga or no, this Nageshwar temple is different considering cleanliness. Normally Shiva Temples around India are known for not-so-clean. This is an exception. The premises are noticeably clean. What attracts as you come near is the huge statue of Lord Shiva.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">Audio-king, Late Gulshan Kumar seems to have done much work for glorifying this Temple. Like he has done for <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2015/07/vaishno-devi-calling-mata-kaa-bulawa.html" target="_blank">Vaishno Devi</a>. His photos & name can be seen around the temple premises.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">We started for our onward journey to Somnath. We reached around 8 pm.</span></span></span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>26-Sep-13:</u></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />Next day morning, we started for Somnath Temple; one with most turbulent history. The temple was destroyed by Islamic attacks & rebuilt later-on many times. It was last destroyed by Aurangzeb in 1665. In 1783, Ahilyadevi Holkar of Indore built another Temple of Somnath adjacent to the ruins of the original. This temple still stands here. It has two Shiv Lingas - the duplicate one immediately inside, while the Main Shiv-linga beneath that with narrow stairs on both sides. This was avoid the destruction of Main Shiv-linga, in case the temple is attacked.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tq68r8g6pVQ/VXG3Y7aSpbI/AAAAAAAAT6g/UCqdrkKSm9gY9YWC4kYUHNOvw6z9kp2Iw/s1600/DSC_0347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tq68r8g6pVQ/VXG3Y7aSpbI/AAAAAAAAT6g/UCqdrkKSm9gY9YWC4kYUHNOvw6z9kp2Iw/s400/DSC_0347.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Adjacent temple built by Ahilyadevi Holkar</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">Later in 1947, after India's Independence, Sardar Patel initiated the cause of rebuilding Somnath Temple over its ruins at the original place.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">Now what we see is the huge & befitting Temple of Somnath built to its past glory. It is situated near the Triveni Sangam of rivers - Kapila, Hiran & mythical Saraswati; along the sea-shore. Yellow Sandstone structure with vast expanse of blue Arabia Sea at the background, is a sight to ponder.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">The temple is magnanimous in size. It is definitely one of the best examples of modern archetecture in India. There are exquisite carvings outside as well as inside.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">There is a Sound & Light Show run inside the premises. However, it is closed during the Rainy Season (June to September) every year. We, unfortunately, missed this.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">There is one peculier fact. The Temple is built on a land-mass which has no other land-mass in a straight line till South Pole (Antartica).</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_MpN_S4BiU/VXG3dI6URuI/AAAAAAAAT6w/bjnqWp-zvJ00Zm6gv1pyUGnLszWP_0uywCPcB/s1600/DSC_0354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_MpN_S4BiU/VXG3dI6URuI/AAAAAAAAT6w/bjnqWp-zvJ00Zm6gv1pyUGnLszWP_0uywCPcB/s400/DSC_0354.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Iron Man of India</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In front of the Temple Main-gate, there is a statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. A true honour for a man whose efforts lead to restoration of this Temple for the seventh time after repeated destruction at the hands of foreign rulers.</span></span>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are couple of more sites to visit
nearby - Triveni Sangam & Geeta Mandir. Following these we reached another
site which has a mythological importance – Bhalaka (alse referred as Bhalaka Teerth).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bhalaka is the place where Lord
Krishna was believed to have hit by the arrow by a hunter named Jara, by mistake. Lord Krishna breathed his last here.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lord Krishna was one of the mortal Awataars
of Lord Vishnu. In his previous Awataar as Lord Rama, Lord Vishnu had killed
Bali from behind (unlawfully). Actually Sugreev & Bali were fighting for
supremacy. Seeing that Sugreev is losing this fight, Lord Rama striked Bali who was completely unaware. This is against the rules of a Duel Fight. </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Bali avenged this
death in his next incarnation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">After end of Mahabharat, Yadavas of Yadu Dynasty (Lord Krishna's Dynasty), in a fit of arrogancy, fought with each other and destroyed themselves. Lord Krishna retired into a forest & took up meditation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lord Krishna was resting under a tree sitting cross-legged. A hunter, Jara, was roaming around in search of a
kill. At a distance he mistook partly visible bare-foot of Lord Krishna to
be a deer. He took a shot at it, mortally injuring Lord
Krishna.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jara came to him terrified for his mistake, when Lord Krishna himself told him the story about he being Bali in previous birth. Thus Bali avenged his death at the hand's of Lord Vishnu (Rama-avataar), by striking Lord Krishna completely unaware. Lord Krishna ascended back to his eternal abode.</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-78z3NixYMpo/VXG3f02LAEI/AAAAAAAAT64/d2QqpiWuk5EkzWQ_t0nCzW_Tv6bJV0D2ACPcB/s1600/DSC_0365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-78z3NixYMpo/VXG3f02LAEI/AAAAAAAAT64/d2QqpiWuk5EkzWQ_t0nCzW_Tv6bJV0D2ACPcB/s400/DSC_0365.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The idols inside the temple are beautiful, full of expression. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is believed that the tree in the vicinity, is the same under which Lord Krishna breathed his last.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From here, we decided to get back to Bhavnagar. On the way, there is Gir Lion Sanctuary. However, since we were towards end of rainy season, there is heavy grass & greenery. It is very difficult to spot wildlife in such scenario. Hence we had cancelled it from our plan since beginning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Actually, we had included to visit Diu. However, we had started witnessing change in weather (heavy rains). Also, visiting Diu for 3-4 hours was not worth-it. Hence we cancelled this plan in last moment.</span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before reaching Bhavnagar, there is another interesting place - Alang. It is a major world-wide centre of Ship-breaking. It is termed as world's largest graveyard of ships (approximately half of all ships across the world are salvaged here). The longest ship ever built (Seawise Giant) also sailed here for salvaging.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">During high-tides, ships are brought inside the docks & during low-tides, the workers dismantle these. The structure (metal, wood, etc) is sold as scrap, while the rest all items & equipments are sold to general public.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the road outside, there are many shops lined-up which sale goods from Furniture to Shampoos & Electronics to Playing Cards. All these at a cheaper rate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With this we returned back to Bhavnager, ending our Saurashtra Tour.</span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rooute:</span>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m52!1m12!1m3!1d1900415.2289270018!2d69.43553114080791!3d21.517569111269726!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m37!3e0!4m5!1s0x395f5081abb84e2f%3A0xf676d64c6e13716c!2sBhavnagar%2C+Gujarat!3m2!1d21.7644725!2d72.1519304!4m5!1s0x3956345051c2f8e5%3A0x9e2165b8de9bd8ca!2sPorbandar%2C+Gujarat!3m2!1d21.6417069!2d69.6292654!4m5!1s0x39569c266399e37b%3A0xb5866e461a106e0a!2sDwarka%2C+Gujarat!3m2!1d22.2441975!2d68.96845619999999!4m5!1s0x3bfd328b9ce28aeb%3A0x6d2efaa0d9eda083!2sSomnath%2C+Gujarat!3m2!1d20.9060022!2d70.3843721!4m5!1s0x3be1ef1754ecc115%3A0x4e05dda2308e9b78!2sAlang%2C+Gujarat!3m2!1d21.3996075!2d72.1739726!4m5!1s0x395f5081abb84e2f%3A0xf676d64c6e13716c!2sBhavnagar%2C+Gujarat!3m2!1d21.7644725!2d72.1519304!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1433175394054" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bavnagar - Sihor - Gondal - Porbandar - Harshad - Dwarka - Okhla - Bet Dwarka (by boat) - Nageshwar - Porbandar - Somnath - Alang - Bhavnagar</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Stay Details:</b></span></div>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?cid=4BFC6EB4C9CF517A&resid=4BFC6EB4C9CF517A%21188779&authkey=APK8tmmqPp9VTzU&em=2&wdAllowInteractivity=False&ActiveCell='Saurashtra'!A1&wdHideGridlines=True&wdHideHeaders=True" width="700"></iframe></div>
Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India21.7644725 72.15193040000008321.646498 71.990568900000085 21.882447 72.313291900000081tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-28380873697384007772013-09-16T22:30:00.001+05:302013-09-16T22:32:06.737+05:30Thoseghar Waterfalls Dobara - September 1, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Following is the Photo-logue of our recent Thoseghar-Chalkewadi trip:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thoseghar Waterfalls:</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IGL32oghYv8/Ujc0Vgq7FKI/AAAAAAAALVA/IMro-JRJZNI/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IGL32oghYv8/Ujc0Vgq7FKI/AAAAAAAALVA/IMro-JRJZNI/s400/DSC_0012.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ptQWHGItqlo/Ujc0RSTFrGI/AAAAAAAALU0/HFTzJ5YMaEc/s1600/DSC_0010_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ptQWHGItqlo/Ujc0RSTFrGI/AAAAAAAALU0/HFTzJ5YMaEc/s400/DSC_0010_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-99fDHGvr5Ss/Ujc0TUWTFbI/AAAAAAAALU4/xHxvcgN70Pk/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-99fDHGvr5Ss/Ujc0TUWTFbI/AAAAAAAALU4/xHxvcgN70Pk/s400/DSC_0016.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chalkewadi Windmills:</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eEsaF_2y1qg/Ujc1IH8ec1I/AAAAAAAALVM/dAk93_BhJWs/s1600/DSC_0043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eEsaF_2y1qg/Ujc1IH8ec1I/AAAAAAAALVM/dAk93_BhJWs/s400/DSC_0043.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLVqIDUOBRg/Ujc1pToAkNI/AAAAAAAALVc/Y0K1v-EdSPg/s1600/DSC_0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLVqIDUOBRg/Ujc1pToAkNI/AAAAAAAALVc/Y0K1v-EdSPg/s400/DSC_0049.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>equivalent to the Kaas Plateau (Valley of Flowers)</i></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SK8Ctz5BH-k/Ujc1Xu6N4pI/AAAAAAAALVU/fPjEcHl4pMI/s1600/DSC_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SK8Ctz5BH-k/Ujc1Xu6N4pI/AAAAAAAALVU/fPjEcHl4pMI/s400/DSC_0047.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f6Qy2dXhcP4/Ujc2OFOzd9I/AAAAAAAALVk/SABV7n8gkpY/s1600/DSC_0051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f6Qy2dXhcP4/Ujc2OFOzd9I/AAAAAAAALVk/SABV7n8gkpY/s400/DSC_0051.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qYuYPFQbASI/Ujc3Qxr8yDI/AAAAAAAALVw/J7I60kW-ZAo/s1600/DSC_0055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qYuYPFQbASI/Ujc3Qxr8yDI/AAAAAAAALVw/J7I60kW-ZAo/s400/DSC_0055.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Urmodi Dam:</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uZEEW5GpD0w/Ujc3ro4zQcI/AAAAAAAALV4/MtdDreIYQxc/s1600/Panorama1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uZEEW5GpD0w/Ujc3ro4zQcI/AAAAAAAALV4/MtdDreIYQxc/s640/Panorama1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Panorama of 4 individual photos stitched together</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For route, visit my last blog about our first visit -- <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2011/07/thoseghar-chalkewadi-july-10-2011.html" target="_blank">Click here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some updates --> Entry fee has been levied for entry at Thoseghar Waterfalls - Rs. 10 each for per adult entry, Car Parking & SLR Camera (Rs. 5 for a Compact Camera)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Road condition at Chalkewadi was as bad as it was 2 years ago - need to be pretty careful in case you have a car; mine under-body did hit at one place.</span><br />
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Thoseghar, Maharashtra, India17.6030972 73.84778740000001617.5425547 73.767106400000017 17.6636397 73.928468400000014tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-76691067933470474682013-09-16T21:49:00.000+05:302015-05-31T17:43:03.773+05:30Chavand Fort a.k.a. Prasannagad - August 25, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was our long awaited Photography Club Excursion. Actually I heard this fort for the first time - Chaavand Fort a.k.a. Prasannagad.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The region where this fort is located - near Junnar - has the history that goes back to 1000 years, the Satvahana era. There are 5 forts & Fortresses in this region - Hadsar, Shivneri, Jivdhan, Naneghat & Chaavand, the Famous Five. Chaavand Fort has the remnants of construction that is about 800 years old. It is one of the oldest forts amongst the treasure of 350 odd forts of Maharashtra.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started off at 7.30 am (I took the bus from Alka Talkies, Pune). We took the Pune-Nashik (NH-50) Highway. There is a left for Junnar from Narayangaon. As you reach Junnar, you can see the mighty Shivneri Fort, Shivaji's birthplace, on left. From here we headed for Chavand village via Aptale. Boards are available; else one can enquire with the locals.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By the time we reached the base village, rain had started. And by the time we climbed half the fort, it was lashing like anything. And this situation remained the entire day. Our photography tour was converted into an adventure trekking.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chavand is the base village of Prasannagad; also known as Chavand Fort. The fort looking from base looked as if some huge rock is placed over a hillock. It seemed impossible to climb for usual trekkers. It felt as though you'll need experts with mountaineering equipment.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDKmWQQfwxUvC3iDPBi7mZEVPrxzaIc-Kf-P5V-j15NX_9FkY0mK-xXpjAw3wqJd_sGXkADyF1YZsidQhJK1wK4wrdBIjeOVSHDZknyAGDHOkGF76_FxpAOWojYL1kj3kXs9KhlPV-pgL/s1600/Prasannagad+3D+Map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDKmWQQfwxUvC3iDPBi7mZEVPrxzaIc-Kf-P5V-j15NX_9FkY0mK-xXpjAw3wqJd_sGXkADyF1YZsidQhJK1wK4wrdBIjeOVSHDZknyAGDHOkGF76_FxpAOWojYL1kj3kXs9KhlPV-pgL/s400/Prasannagad+3D+Map.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Image from Google Maps - Showing climbing route from Chavand village</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, it is not so. Reaching the top is comparatively easy; Therefore, I have given a Google Maps imagery of the fort above. From the base village there are well laid steps till the half-way (work is going on).</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj45kFotWpV_dqlpoEoPrgWPWp4wYVQ8KtW2KKrUWMqXNBQa_tKAEa_mFcnRTg5KvlbNy6PRtoodZF1Ohb-FTxlPhxgr_g7DAx9tSxaL-K00OWEVEY5t96VvkqG6PjIjtMyE7raiW8VHpVX/s1600/DSC_0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj45kFotWpV_dqlpoEoPrgWPWp4wYVQ8KtW2KKrUWMqXNBQa_tKAEa_mFcnRTg5KvlbNy6PRtoodZF1Ohb-FTxlPhxgr_g7DAx9tSxaL-K00OWEVEY5t96VvkqG6PjIjtMyE7raiW8VHpVX/s400/DSC_0031.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Railings provided on rock-sides to facilitate climbing</span></i></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At the half-way, a steep rock patch starts; However, very well laid & strong railings are made to facility this climb easily. Absence of the railing would have devoided common people from reaching this fort.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ikV8jzzpAaU/UlEfegtSUlI/AAAAAAAALYE/Fw6TVEJAqrI/s1600/DSC_0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ikV8jzzpAaU/UlEfegtSUlI/AAAAAAAALYE/Fw6TVEJAqrI/s400/DSC_0026.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Last few steps - takes your breath away</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally, after the rock patch again there are steps that take you to the Main Door. These are huge & steep. Lashing rains & powerful winds was making this climb gruely tiresome.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVIiGRC6PLcParYhYqcK2GOX-zBGdOfa8_zvrQnVIQKZlNwzY5ZVSRgg6_MzrFZrjVVGaEF1alW52NsPaeu-RwwQkKfqU6Qx-mXVG58wCywEhp-eg0trJe9HVfxF2zMqwTw074UexU3Pet/s1600/DSC_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVIiGRC6PLcParYhYqcK2GOX-zBGdOfa8_zvrQnVIQKZlNwzY5ZVSRgg6_MzrFZrjVVGaEF1alW52NsPaeu-RwwQkKfqU6Qx-mXVG58wCywEhp-eg0trJe9HVfxF2zMqwTw074UexU3Pet/s400/DSC_0030.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chavandwadi Village from top</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zfUgPV9ZlXA/UlEfLuRC3jI/AAAAAAAALXc/ovdtKIJlsKQ/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zfUgPV9ZlXA/UlEfLuRC3jI/AAAAAAAALXc/ovdtKIJlsKQ/s400/DSC_0003.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rain Rain All The Way</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Actually, there was one mistake I did. I didn't study the fort well before going for this trip. I didn't knew what are the places to see on top.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To add up, the climate was against us. It was raining heavily. Actually, whatever photos I took they were with extreme risk of getting my camera damaged. Secondly, due to monsoons, the whole land was covered in high grass.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E1PPbmXsLSc/UlEfZRXgw8I/AAAAAAAALX8/2DMF_BJUkTw/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E1PPbmXsLSc/UlEfZRXgw8I/AAAAAAAALX8/2DMF_BJUkTw/s400/DSC_0020.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pushkarani</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After the steps & passing through the Mahadarwaja (Main Gate), the plain area is seen with further more small hillock a little ahead. We were exploring the area when we found small water tank with a broken temple (seems to be of Lord Shiva) at the end. One side of the tank had 8-10 small compartments with Idols carved / kept inside.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KLLP4UEbt98/UlEfPqoxu7I/AAAAAAAALXk/XKPXDEk0BQw/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KLLP4UEbt98/UlEfPqoxu7I/AAAAAAAALXk/XKPXDEk0BQw/s400/DSC_0006.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">j</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8UyKG3NpVc6wPgiTqac1UgWeTauQJm1clK0xfFQBgGqDXMDgNF-wHAM5uTnQR1f1NY4nkJ5-YpQTWrPvUaxe34zNs65uLf7xtdF3hvOJhI5LMVlvnJkG6ZNi9jlDxv1O_k2Vn5_Qq5RcF/s1600/DSC_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8UyKG3NpVc6wPgiTqac1UgWeTauQJm1clK0xfFQBgGqDXMDgNF-wHAM5uTnQR1f1NY4nkJ5-YpQTWrPvUaxe34zNs65uLf7xtdF3hvOJhI5LMVlvnJkG6ZNi9jlDxv1O_k2Vn5_Qq5RcF/s400/DSC_0014.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Seems to be a Shiv-Linga</i></span></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lOkwtrPaNyM/UlEfWmjRKFI/AAAAAAAALX0/qVmv34UPehs/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lOkwtrPaNyM/UlEfWmjRKFI/AAAAAAAALX0/qVmv34UPehs/s400/DSC_0017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From here we started our descent. There were few more places to see which I came to know later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once at the base, we got back to our buses to go to the Nane Ghat. It used to be a trade route from Western Maharashtra to the Konkan. It has a beautiful Kokan-kada. There is one large cistern carved out of stone. Traders used to drop money in that as a part of Tax (Toll system of that era), while they used this Nane Ghat to travel.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rain was extremely heavy & there was no visibility. Hence we dropped the idea to spend some time at Nane Ghat & decided to turn back.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On the way back home, as the rains gave some break, we stopped over an extremely beautiful ancient temple - Kukadeshwar. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is the place where Kukadi River originates – the river which near
Nighoj forms the famous natural <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2012/12/potholes-of-nighoj-ranjan-khalge.html" target="_blank">Pot-holes</a>.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p254RWAzbs4/UlEf2EF6BoI/AAAAAAAALY8/d4aA5_wfDnc/s1600/DSC_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p254RWAzbs4/UlEf2EF6BoI/AAAAAAAALY8/d4aA5_wfDnc/s400/DSC_0046.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kukadeshwar Temple</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The temple is in ruined state. The villagers are organizing its reconstruction. The work is under progress.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1eLU-JzNsXs/UlEfoRgsfOI/AAAAAAAALYc/9LCJSgA1aQ0/s1600/DSC_0035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1eLU-JzNsXs/UlEfoRgsfOI/AAAAAAAALYc/9LCJSgA1aQ0/s400/DSC_0035.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKCR07wCx3FuXhlC3QAY9ke05q4n-nfyoF_qzG96qFBGuzYOW_7gsRMISywroJRodhIqAsdwZewMs5UJMDWNvzcOdyfti4SB44ZOQX0ZcfzgA__wsaKRMbBxvFrBpIdan-PyrtSVLDOpcP/s1600/DSC_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKCR07wCx3FuXhlC3QAY9ke05q4n-nfyoF_qzG96qFBGuzYOW_7gsRMISywroJRodhIqAsdwZewMs5UJMDWNvzcOdyfti4SB44ZOQX0ZcfzgA__wsaKRMbBxvFrBpIdan-PyrtSVLDOpcP/s400/DSC_0041.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-msLFirxTGdk/UlEfzU8VM3I/AAAAAAAALY0/9kMbGZQ3qzM/s1600/DSC_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-msLFirxTGdk/UlEfzU8VM3I/AAAAAAAALY0/9kMbGZQ3qzM/s400/DSC_0045.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Alien-like' Sculpture which seems to be<br />of a frail, old Lady</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yiW7JRQa6mM/UlEfvBtS1JI/AAAAAAAALYs/8XXNF9gzvCI/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yiW7JRQa6mM/UlEfvBtS1JI/AAAAAAAALYs/8XXNF9gzvCI/s400/DSC_0044.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BHfcG7wcXIg/UlEf6CgnFWI/AAAAAAAALZE/rPbrAdT0jm0/s1600/DSC_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BHfcG7wcXIg/UlEf6CgnFWI/AAAAAAAALZE/rPbrAdT0jm0/s400/DSC_0047.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kukadi River</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Route from Pune:</b></span><b><br /></b>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m46!1m12!1m3!1d483131.7593219139!2d73.54111339888303!3d18.9107182126824!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m31!3e0!4m5!1s0x3bc2bf2e67461101%3A0x828d43bf9d9ee343!2sPune%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d18.520430299999997!2d73.8567437!4m5!1s0x3bdd69895cf2ef91%3A0x1b42e3ac6a47f2f3!2sChawand%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d19.2434398!2d73.74484369999999!4m5!1s0x3bdd68cd2369eccf%3A0x8667a13893e246be!2sNane+Ghat%2C+Ghatghar%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d19.297575!2d73.6866331!4m5!1s0x3bdd6997dc2a1f51%3A0xd8812f51c042af25!2sKukadeshwar%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d19.242358!2d73.7249842!4m5!1s0x3bc2bf2e67461101%3A0x828d43bf9d9ee343!2sPune%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d18.520430299999997!2d73.8567437!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1433073774300" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe>
<b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Zoomed map of the Region:</b><b><br /></b>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m34!1m12!1m3!1d60262.68360819769!2d73.69901480868327!3d19.26419227441421!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m19!3e0!4m5!1s0x3bdd69895cf2ef91%3A0x1b42e3ac6a47f2f3!2sChawand%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d19.2434398!2d73.74484369999999!4m5!1s0x3bdd68cd2369eccf%3A0x8667a13893e246be!2sNane+Ghat%2C+Ghatghar%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d19.297575!2d73.6866331!4m5!1s0x3bdd6997dc2a1f51%3A0xd8812f51c042af25!2sKukadeshwar%2C+Maharashtra!3m2!1d19.242358!2d73.7249842!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1433073958779" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Chavand Fort, Chawand, Maharashtra 410502, India19.2369088 73.748817400000007-10.339833200000001 32.440223400000008 48.8136508 115.0574114tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-70292013840279466632013-09-16T21:47:00.000+05:302013-11-05T09:34:47.143+05:30Pavana Dam - August 1, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had to undertake a vehicle trial of our upcoming model. We decided the Pavana Dam - Dudhivare Khind route; the kind of route we wanted - Highway, Cross-Country and Ghat Section, with lot many pot holes due to the rainy season. So this was our official trip at one of the many scenic drives near Pune.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started off from our office in Pimpri at 10 am. We took the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway (NH-4).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is a left turn at Kaamshet (after Talegaon) towards Kalewadi. After Kalewadi, the road is extremely scenic. On the left Pavana Dam Wall is visible as the road climbs a small ghat.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MipdmK8Am00/UgUE3rWsQpI/AAAAAAAALPA/Km0zDjlzyzk/s1600/_DSC0015_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MipdmK8Am00/UgUE3rWsQpI/AAAAAAAALPA/Km0zDjlzyzk/s400/_DSC0015_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pavana Dam - River flowing past the Dam</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WEhYqe8QwzY/UgUE7FagOfI/AAAAAAAALPI/n2jxSjwRjUc/s1600/_DSC0017_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WEhYqe8QwzY/UgUE7FagOfI/AAAAAAAALPI/n2jxSjwRjUc/s400/_DSC0017_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pavana Dam - Wall & Catchment Area</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With the backwaters on the left and the road twisting & turning through the ghat, the drive is awesome. And driving an SUV on this is like an icing on the cake.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We could see many waterfalls on the way. It was an official Test Drive, hence we couldn't stop at all of them; however, we still sneak through couple of them for a brief photography. Again being on official duty, we just photographed and had to resisit our temptation of taking a cool bath inside one of them...</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Tunga Fort across the Pavana backwaters</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From here, we took the Lonavala route through Dudhivare Khind. It is a small mountain pass on top of a hill with travel distance of just above 100 meters. However, the high walls of black rock on both sides with a very narrow road to pass was giving a very eerie feeling. Just a note, do not stop your vehicle in between; there are chances of land-slides (they are not fatal though). Park the vehicle before or after the pass and then walk in between.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Dhudivare Khinda</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From here we went to Lonavala, had lunch in between and then reached our office in Pimpri.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Map:</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HqJUQlp5lLQ/UnhqO1OJO5I/AAAAAAAALZ8/rURei5sWZJM/s1600/Pavana+Dam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HqJUQlp5lLQ/UnhqO1OJO5I/AAAAAAAALZ8/rURei5sWZJM/s400/Pavana+Dam.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Pavana Dam, Ambegaon, Maharashtra 41040618.6815532 73.495067800000015-10.8951888 32.186473800000016 48.2582952 114.80366180000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-33912237427636198792013-08-06T21:04:00.000+05:302013-11-17T14:09:36.238+05:30Siddhivinayak of Siddhatek - July 21, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was the only Ashtavinayakas I haven't visited as yet; and hence was a long pending trip.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ganesh idol of Siddhtek is the only one among other Ashtavinayakas with its trunk turned towards Right. Normally such Ganesh is called as Siddhivinayak - the giver of accomplishments - a powerful Lord but difficult to please.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Temple is located on a hillock along the banks of river Bhima. The devotees often perform the Prada-kshina (Circumambulation) around this hillock - similar to the one at Ganpati-pule. A well laid down path is constructed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Legend says that while Lord Vishnu was battling two demons - Madhu & Kaitabh. However, he was not able to succeed. Later he invoked Lord Ganesha (the deity of beginning & obstacle removal) by performing penance at Siddhatek. After Ganesha bestowed his blessings, Lord Vishnu was able to kill those demons. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The original temple is believed to have constructed by Lord Vishnu; however the current structure what we see is built by Ahilyadevi Holkar.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started off at 7 am on this Sunday. We took the Pune-Solapur Highway (NH-9). Take an exit at Kurkumbh towards Daund. A flyover construction was going on. Hence this exit becomes slightly tricky. However, we seeked guidance of some locals and were rightly on track. Just prior to Daund, a road goes towards Right for Siddhatek.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We need to cross the river Bhima. Earlier there was no other option but a boat ride. But, now a bridge is constructed.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJ5MzNlmLYk/UiSe7pLw4MI/AAAAAAAALT4/sHObT8Ipat0/s1600/DSC_0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJ5MzNlmLYk/UiSe7pLw4MI/AAAAAAAALT4/sHObT8Ipat0/s400/DSC_0073.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After crossing bridge, a hillock that we see in the front is the temple complex. You need to take a left and encircle the hillock on the other side, which is the entry. A large Nagaar-khana can be prominently</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> seen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A large banyan tree is seen at this entry. It's girth huge. It might have been standing here for years together.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x9i1CkwqMxE/UiSepDsiZtI/AAAAAAAALTQ/G45C3ebyfz8/s1600/DSC_0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x9i1CkwqMxE/UiSepDsiZtI/AAAAAAAALTQ/G45C3ebyfz8/s400/DSC_0049.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The temple is North facing. A well paved road is seen from the Nagaar-khana to the Sabha-mandap with shops lined-up on both sides. Temple is made of black stone.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9DZsSBKQBG4/UiSeupgirQI/AAAAAAAALTc/VtJC2Z4T7ag/s1600/DSC_0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9DZsSBKQBG4/UiSeupgirQI/AAAAAAAALTc/VtJC2Z4T7ag/s400/DSC_0062.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We found a very unique temple here. Exactly in front of the road coming from the bridge (i.e. the back-side of main temple). This Lord Vishnu temple is constructed at a platform about 10 feet in height. However, the funny part is that there are no steps to reach. Some stones are just kept over each other which you have to literally trek up the platform. We asked a local who told that the steps whenever constructed won't last at all. They get destroyed due to some reason or the other. Hence onwards, anyone who has reach the temple, they have to trek their way up. Secondly, the main entry door for the Sanctorum is very small. You need to squeeze yourself inside as seen in the photo below.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jZ30wuu-eY/UiSek8U69pI/AAAAAAAALS8/KOW9baIW3yA/s1600/DSC_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jZ30wuu-eY/UiSek8U69pI/AAAAAAAALS8/KOW9baIW3yA/s400/DSC_0045.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-veLO0gU8laE/UiSekW19CjI/AAAAAAAALS4/QSIMWqR19Tk/s1600/DSC_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-veLO0gU8laE/UiSekW19CjI/AAAAAAAALS4/QSIMWqR19Tk/s400/DSC_0046.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Main Temple seen from the high platform of Vishnu Temple</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hkVj1GbNrw/UiSenlqKVVI/AAAAAAAALTE/B_5UxDSy8wo/s1600/DSC_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hkVj1GbNrw/UiSenlqKVVI/AAAAAAAALTE/B_5UxDSy8wo/s400/DSC_0047.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>River Bhima seen from the high platform of Vishnu Temple</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a peaceful darshan, we decided to return. Since we had some time in hand before we reach Pune, we planned to visit another of the Ashtavinayaks - Theur.</span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On the way we had a lunch at one very interesting restaurant on the Kurkumbh-Daund Road.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LU4qFiylXQM/UiSe59dZTSI/AAAAAAAALTs/ce3LXW0570w/s1600/DSC_0077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LU4qFiylXQM/UiSe59dZTSI/AAAAAAAALTs/ce3LXW0570w/s400/DSC_0077.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--hcOscNvIck/UiSe89u3kFI/AAAAAAAALT8/vUDYLbjG8Hk/s1600/WP_000017_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--hcOscNvIck/UiSe89u3kFI/AAAAAAAALT8/vUDYLbjG8Hk/s400/WP_000017_1.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We took same road back. Just after Uruli-Kanchan there is a road towards Right (towards Left while coming from Pune). This goes towards Theur.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is the place that holds the memories of Madhavrao Peshwa and his wife Ramabai.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Theur is well-known to be the spiritual place for the Peshwas, especially Madhavrao Peshwa. He used to visit this Lord before & after his battle expeditions. He renovated the temple complex & made additions to the structure. He constructed wooden hall, garden & a fountain outside the temple. Behind the temple is the Peshwe-wada where Madhavrao used to stay.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He even chose to breathe his last here. When his health weakened due to tuberculosis, he decided to spend his last days near his favorite Ganesha temple. After his death, his wife Ramabai performed Sati during his cremation on the banks of River Bhima, not far from here.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasxN3qsxicjY8d_jmN_HdpG6GbQm1oU1D3kgAzQ2wb7UqRmlNoBR8ClUvo8wRw4ULf-6CCu5r01AP11vMcsJUUnjB2Uk07H0sIA-YMrXhJ3soGwKELCDmV2IcIzziP0CDPgcSp-LQSWKI/s1600/DSC_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasxN3qsxicjY8d_jmN_HdpG6GbQm1oU1D3kgAzQ2wb7UqRmlNoBR8ClUvo8wRw4ULf-6CCu5r01AP11vMcsJUUnjB2Uk07H0sIA-YMrXhJ3soGwKELCDmV2IcIzziP0CDPgcSp-LQSWKI/s400/DSC_0078.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Place where Ramabai performed Sati during cremation of Madhavrao Peshwa</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The condition of this place is very depressing. However, some work seems to be going on here. Hopefully, whenever I visit next time, the place shall stand in the honor it deserves.</span><br />
<span style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(16-Nov-13: Just today's newspaper has as article on this, the place has been restored & aptly renovated)</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mbqDNZ9gox4/Uoh_nDWr4RI/AAAAAAAALfQ/13ExdzVPQhU/s1600/WP_000171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mbqDNZ9gox4/Uoh_nDWr4RI/AAAAAAAALfQ/13ExdzVPQhU/s320/WP_000171.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The temple has a wooden Sabha-mandap, I think the only one among Ashtavinayakas. The Ganesh idol is East facing, while the entry to the temple complex is North facing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As per Puranas, there was this greedy King Gunasur who stole a wish-granding jewel (Chintamani) from a Sage Kapila. Kapila worships Lord Ganesha, who beheads Gunasur and gives Chintamani back to Kapila. However, the sage chooses to have Ganesha to keep the jewel. So Ganeshs stays at Theur with the name Chintamani.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another story says that Lord Brahma meditated here. Lord Ganesha got rid of his worries (chintas) to help him meditate better. Hence the name Chintamani.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Both these temples are managed by the Chinchwad Devasthan Trust which governs the <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2012/03/tribute-to-revolutionaries-visit-to.html" target="_blank">Moraya Gosawi Temple of Chinchwad</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />Map:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinTiwaNlOTOO9F7J7aD3xZvI8usWzEtLGQIfby3J6y2taWoCWK8hyphenhyphenLBLuVwtUzh_n1I_mIJ7UvC6YOGC503vg72yMnqeaZCFuPt2b1o9IS4Ie_paiOmuDgXdvsfzvdDQH9iew-t3v2bPei/s1600/Siddhatek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinTiwaNlOTOO9F7J7aD3xZvI8usWzEtLGQIfby3J6y2taWoCWK8hyphenhyphenLBLuVwtUzh_n1I_mIJ7UvC6YOGC503vg72yMnqeaZCFuPt2b1o9IS4Ie_paiOmuDgXdvsfzvdDQH9iew-t3v2bPei/s400/Siddhatek.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Siddhatek, Maharashtra, India18.463575 74.73962000000005918.433452499999998 74.69927950000006 18.4936975 74.779960500000058tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-13868575136592066232013-08-02T20:42:00.000+05:302013-08-06T20:37:24.428+05:30Museum Of Miniature Railways - May 20, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Its been since 1998 that a Joshi's Museum Of Miniature Railways is functioning in one of the Pune suburbs at Kothrud. And it is not just any museum; it is in fact the work of detailing done by Bhau Joshi (as he is affectionately called).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The railway models range from now well-known Electric Locomotives to the age-old Steam Locomotives. There are well-known models of the Railways from various countries - Japan to Germany. There are also various types of Railway Transport Modes - Railways, Trams, Mono-rails, Rope-ways, etc. All these are Scale Models with the reduction ratio of 1:87 (i.e. these are manufactured with 87 times reduced dimensions of the actual).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And it is not just about the Railways. Entire imaginary city is built here. The city has a large highway with cars running over it. There are Platforms, Fly-overs, Ghat-sections, Tunnels. Also part of this city is a Circus and a Fun-fair with Giant Wheel, Merry-go-round, Roller-coaster Ride, etc. Lighting is so done that the city looks beautiful in the night.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The show is of about less than 1/2 an hour. It can become an ideal place to spend a short evening time. Guests visiting Pune can be taken to show this place. It would be a different experience than routine Parks and Temples. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is a very simple, no-frills, place. Don't expect any air-conditioned hall with recliner cushioned seats here ;-)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Information is explained in a simple Marathi language so that children can easily understand. I don't think a show in Hindi and/or English is available (need to enquire). However, still the show is worth a visit even for those who don't understand Marathi.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miniature City, with the control unit at the back</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patrons, mostly children, watching the show</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A small video clip of part of the show is below, just to provide an idea.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0Kothrud, Pune, Maharashtra, India18.5087016 73.81249839999998118.448471599999998 73.731817399999983 18.5689316 73.89317939999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-66499106965308260172013-05-11T18:09:00.001+05:302013-08-11T18:10:24.692+05:30Ghorawdeshwar - May 5, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you ask any fitness-freak from Pimpri-Chinchwad about the place he'll visit on a holiday, it is Ghorawdeshwar. A hillock situated right on Pune-Mumbai Old Highway (NH-4) just after Dehu Road.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We office colleagues visited this place one Sunday morning; the most exciting part is we went by a Local train; with Begdewadi Railway Station at a walking distance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was only one from Pune; 3 others were from Pimpri. I caught a 5.51 am Lonavala local from Shivajinagar. They joined me from Pimpri at 6.08 am. And we reached Begdewadi at 6.30 am.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started walking towards the nearest hill that is seen towards the highway. There are two ways upwards - by steps or trekking through the hillock.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We took the trekking option. 1/2 hour later we were on the top. There are caves cut in the rock at two different locations one above other. These are believed to be during 3rd or 4th century, later taken up by a Shiva shrine.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhva7HLrsK_rw-UJVUdWumZJcTF8KLg5mB7OWXcetnYrAknsTRhgbFa5FOoYZAe2gGTWVIiZKaxf4EPd9m8nvdDtJmL2RLnUAcDCX9LIlRW1xHT21vFodmGNMr3waFeigyaG38xlLvgUTbE/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhva7HLrsK_rw-UJVUdWumZJcTF8KLg5mB7OWXcetnYrAknsTRhgbFa5FOoYZAe2gGTWVIiZKaxf4EPd9m8nvdDtJmL2RLnUAcDCX9LIlRW1xHT21vFodmGNMr3waFeigyaG38xlLvgUTbE/s400/DSC_0001.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Shiva Temple inside one of the caves</i></span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEUTsWzgIzo/UY44bcauVdI/AAAAAAAAK7Q/caKBJCq12pA/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEUTsWzgIzo/UY44bcauVdI/AAAAAAAAK7Q/caKBJCq12pA/s400/DSC_0017.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The view from top is spectacular with the NH-4 highway & the railway lines running parallel on one side while the Pune's own international cricket stadium on the other. Similarly the large statue of Birla Ganesh as well as the <a href="http://itsmytravelogue.blogspot.in/2012/06/shirdi-near-pune-shirgaon-aka-prati.html" target="_blank">Prati-shirdi (Shirgaon)</a> is also seen.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Subrata Roy Sahara Stadium - view from Ghorawdeshwar</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We decided to return using the steps, 300 odd of them, some nicely constructed while some still broken. We rushed down and in 20-25 minutes we were back to the railway station. It was 8 am in the watch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Talegaon-Pune local was on time - 8.13 am at Begadewadi. My colleagues got down at Pimpri, while I reached Shivajinagar station at 8.45.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B3vJPyZ2QQ9pUVlVOC1aZjJYbTA/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Local time-table here</a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. Total expenses incurred, Rs. 20 only. Rs. 10 for 2-wheeler parking at Shivajinagar Station and Rs. 10 as a return ticket for Begadewadi.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Map:</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmfcRfbF0yk/UgeFv47IsgI/AAAAAAAALSA/pw47QOf1tcg/s1600/Ghorawdeshwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmfcRfbF0yk/UgeFv47IsgI/AAAAAAAALSA/pw47QOf1tcg/s400/Ghorawdeshwar.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-66587140775312010672013-03-07T17:48:00.003+05:302013-08-11T17:57:43.666+05:30Serene Saputara_February 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GRn2d4MsMwI/UTdz_Dn6cSI/AAAAAAAAKsk/-IWtvZp1h2c/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GRn2d4MsMwI/UTdz_Dn6cSI/AAAAAAAAKsk/-IWtvZp1h2c/s400/Untitled-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Plan for Saputara was decided in minutes. Actually there was a chance of family picnic in last May. However, such a long journey in summer would have been very hectic. Hence we didn't participate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Climate this season was very pleasant. Nights were chilling while that day was windy & cool. February is actually the off-season timing in Saputara. Hence there was no rush. Occasional groups & families were seen. Everything was very peaceful. Hotels were near to empty. I had, however, done prior booking online.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started off from Pune at 6.15 in the Sunday morning of February 24, 2013. We joined the Pune-Nashik Highway (NH-50) at Kasarwadi. We had expected "no traffic" this Sunday morning. However, there were Heavy Trucks & Trailors plying on the road carrying huge industrial machinery.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We reached the newly opened Vitthal Kamat Restaurant at Bota by 9 am. We decided to skip Daulat this time when we saw Vitthal Kamat's advt on the way. And it was a nice decision. It is much cleaner that Daulat; toilets too. Food was good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We started off ahead by 9.20 am and reached Nashik at 12.15 pm. We had planned a lunch-break at our uncle's place. Post lunch and a nap, we started for Saputara at 5.15 pm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We took the Dindori road. It is a toll road with Rs. 25 as one time toll for a car. The road goes by the place Vani - Goddess Saptashringi Temple is 22 kms from here. It is one of the Shakti-peeths. Temple is located on a hill range of seven peaks with about 500 steps to climb. We had decided to visit here during our next Nashik trip.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We reached Borgao, last village in Maharashtra on this road. From here we entered Gujarat. Just after border, in Gujarat, there is a check post which collect Rs. 20 per vehicle for entry in Saputara. It was 7.15 pm. We could see the street & hotel lights glittering in the dark from here. The Saputara lake or the main circle is hardly 1 kms from here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We could find our hotel Shilpi Hill Resort easily. Its a 3-star property, with ample parking, green lawn in the front and nice lobby. Room allotted to us was also clean & tidy. Food was awesome.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After check-in and a brief rest, we started out for dinner. Just opposite the lake by the main road there are many road-side stalls which serve Paav Bhaji, Pulaav, Omlette, Chinese, etc. We walked till the the Main Circle which had all the information boards for various places to see. Only one problem - all information is in Gujarati. Administration should atleast provide this information in one of the more common languages - Hindi or English.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had Pav-Bhaji and planned our next morning <i>Tour de Saputara</i>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next morning we left our hotel at 9 am after a full, tasty breakfast. It was very windy day that day. We first went to the Steps Garden just by the side of the Saputara Lake.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We went for Boating in the Lake. Pedal Boats are available for a small family, while Rowing Boats for a larger group.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aPiUS-oOzzA/UTdte39aocI/AAAAAAAAKrM/8uwqW01v2Ww/s1600/DSC_0132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aPiUS-oOzzA/UTdte39aocI/AAAAAAAAKrM/8uwqW01v2Ww/s400/DSC_0132.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Saputara Lake</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After boating for about 1/2 hour, we went to another garden by the name Rose Garden. It is small garden with many rose saplings including other flowers as well located a little remote from the lake (towards Sun-rise point). However, major maintenance is needed (may be we thought that way as we visited in hot summers).</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-93ERemEByRo/UTdtkH8anII/AAAAAAAAKrc/gsnoK-n4Uo8/s400/DSC_0150.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Sun Flowers in the Rose Garden ;-)</i></span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-93ERemEByRo/UTdtkH8anII/AAAAAAAAKrc/gsnoK-n4Uo8/s1600/DSC_0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From here we tried to go to the Sunrise point, however halfway and we came across the pathetic road. Hence we decided to turn back.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is the Tribal Museum, Aquarium and a large statue of a Snake in a garden on the main road opposite the lake. We saw the Aquarium. Nicely made - small and sweet. The garden next to it was again - badly maintained. Large statue of a snake (Cobra) is an attraction. Saputara actually means an "Abode of Serpants". Locals tribals worship snakes.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PXN_BuGF0Pk/UTduBQaMajI/AAAAAAAAKr4/XorU45w7ZtM/s1600/DSC_0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PXN_BuGF0Pk/UTduBQaMajI/AAAAAAAAKr4/XorU45w7ZtM/s400/DSC_0159.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Saputara Lake and Town - view from the Rope Way</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From here we returned back to our hotel, had a sumptuous lunch and a brief afternoon nap. We started off at 4.30 pm and went to see the Tribal Museum. It was a nice learning experience. The museum depicts the tribal life the region very well. Their dresses, utensils, weapons, equipment, musical instruments, etc are displayed. Some photographs show their festive celebrations. The statues explain their day-to-day lives.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From here we went for the Sunset point. The best way to go is by a Rope-way. About 8 minutes ride is awesome; with the trolley stopping mid-way for a minute to embark/disembark patrons from other two trolleys. The whole view of the town surrounding the lake as seen from above is scenic. The ticket was Rs. 50 for adults (two-way). One can spend some time at the Sunset point and return back. We were here for about 20 minutes. There are horse rides, snacks and drink points.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(Note: In May 2013, there was a news in newspapers that the Rope-way got stuck in between due to some technical issue <b>for 4 hours</b>. Team from Mumbai had to be called for repairs. It might not happen every time, but one needs to be aware.)</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1RwA9JZzZJY/UTduAvZQT7I/AAAAAAAAKrw/fayOjF2wneU/s1600/DSC_0191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1RwA9JZzZJY/UTduAvZQT7I/AAAAAAAAKrw/fayOjF2wneU/s400/DSC_0191.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o0t9niLzBQE/UTdvRvUOS8I/AAAAAAAAKsA/iW4QYsLpaVE/s1600/DSC_0178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o0t9niLzBQE/UTdvRvUOS8I/AAAAAAAAKsA/iW4QYsLpaVE/s400/DSC_0178.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">View from Sunset Point</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We starter our return journey next morning at 9.30 am. We took an hour's break at Nashik and reached Pune by 6.00 pm.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B3vJPyZ2QQ9pSEhCZnhQQ1QtZlU/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">More info on Saputara Sight-seeing</a>.</span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Odometer Readings:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">00 kms Pune</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">13 kms Nashik Phata (Kasarwadi)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">34 kms Chakan</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">109 kms Bota</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">225 kms Nashik</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">258 kms Dindori</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">276 kms Vani</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">312 kms Maharashtra-Gujarat Border</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">313 kms Saputara</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Return journey</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">335 kms Saputara</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">425 kms Nashik</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">498 kms Sangamner</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">539 kms Vithal Kamat Hotel, Bota</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">647 kms Pune</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Map:</span><br />
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com2Saputara, Gujarat, India20.5728137 73.750727620.5430822 73.7103871 20.6025452 73.7910681tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952026797019495414.post-27829688051177348152013-02-05T21:04:00.000+05:302013-03-28T21:29:54.351+05:30A witness of Valor: Sangramdurga, Chakan - February 5, 2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Till last Diwali (2012), I was not knowing there is a fort just 30 kms from my house which was witness to the immense bravery and valor. It was one of those battles where the losers are honored still today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The place is Chakan (चाकण) on Pune-Nashik Highway (NH-50) and the fort is Sangram-durga, a Bhui-kot or Sthala-durga (भुइकोट or स्थल-दुर्ग)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, the fort built on a flat land.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last Diwali, I saw a miniature model of this fort created by one organisation. They explained the detail history of this fort using sound-&-light technique. Impressed by this piece if history, still unknown to me, I decided to visit this place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I started off from my office at Pimpri at 5 pm with another colleague. We took the Pune-Nashik Highway (NH-50). Chakan is on the highway about 10 kms after the Toll. You need to shelve off Rs. 38 for a return toll (Rs. 25 for one way). At Chakan, there is a main cross-road - Left goes to Talegaon (Pune-Mumbai Road), Right goes to Shikrapur (Pune-Nagar Road). Take Right towards Shikrapur. Immediately take 1st Left. At about 200 mtrs, you can see an arch on the Right mentioning Chakreshwar Mahadeo Temple (चक्रेश्वर महादेव मंदिर</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). This road goes right inside Sangram-durga.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ9h92WFve4/USGtDDlSDwI/AAAAAAAAKpQ/GaEoWvwJncA/s1600/WP_000308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ9h92WFve4/USGtDDlSDwI/AAAAAAAAKpQ/GaEoWvwJncA/s400/WP_000308.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remains of Fort walls & Bastions</span></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shivaji Maharaj (शिवाजी महाराज) was trapped on Panhalgad (पन्हाळगड) under the seige from Siddis (सिद्दी). During the same time Aurangzeb (औरंगझेब) decided to attack Maratha Empire and sent Shahistekhan (Shastakhan) for the job. Shastakhan (शास्ताखान) reached Pune with his army of over 1.25 Lakh (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">77,000 Cavalry & 30,000 Infantry along with Elephants & Canons</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). He was to get supplies (food & ammunition) from other Mughal areas of Nashik (Gulshanabad) & Aurangabad. However, one base in between Pune & these cities was still under Maratha control, Chakan. If Marathas attacked these supplies, the 1 Lakh Army would die without food & ammunition.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shastakhan therefore decided to attack & take Chakan under Mughal control. Mughal Army of 20,000 along with Shastakhan himself marched towards Chakan to conquer it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chakan fort, named Chakrapuri during that time, was a small ground fort about 3-4 acres in area, made of earthen construction. It had walls about 40 feet high with 9 bastions surrounded from all sides by a Moat filled with water. It had two Main Gates which can be identified even today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When Mughals reached the fort, it had about 400 Marathas only and their brave Garrison Commander Firangoji Narsala (किल्लेदार फिरंगोजी नरसाळा</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). The date was June 21, 1607.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking at the small fort,
Shastakhan had thought that he would capture in no time. So he ordered a quick
attack. However, the fort was ready. Marathas showered them with ammunition in
their canons & guns and made severe casualties for Mughals. Marathas were
difficult to spot as they were secured behind the walls & bastions.</span><br />
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Shastakhan then decided to siege the fort. He planted his troops all
around the fort at a safe distance from the range of Maratha Canons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The siege continued for more
than a month. There was no signs of withdrawal from Marathas. In fact, Marathas
were using Guerilla Tactics against Mughals. They used to remain silent during
the day; and during night, a group of 20-25 Marathas used to get out in the
dark, and they used to launch a surprise attack on any one Mughal Group, do the
damage intended and get back inside the fort walls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shastakhan started getting
desperate. He was not able to conquer a small fort held by handful of Marathas for
a month now. He made a plan. Mughals constructed an underground tunnel till the
foundation of the wall. They dumped ammunition there and made a blast. That
part of fortification collapsed and Mughals entered inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Marathas fought valiantly.
But they were only 400, Mughals were 20,000. Tired Mughal soldiers were getting
replaced by new one's. Same luxury was not there for Marathas. Firangoji
Narasala was also fighting his heart out to save the fort.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally
Firangoji was captured alive and Marathas lost the battle. The date was
August 16, 1607.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">400 Marathas held the fort against 20,000 Mughals for 56 days.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Firangoji was brought in front of Shastakhan. Shastakhan was extremely impressed by the bravery of Marathas. He offered Firangoji to join Mughals and promised to give him riches against that. Firangoji promptly refused to make this compromise & was willing to die instead of becoming a traitor. Shastakhan was impressed again by this. He set Firangoji free.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Firangoji went back to Shivaji, depressed. He was extremely dejected and felt sorry for the defeat. He couldn't face Shivaji and stood before him, head down. Shivaji instead, was extremely impressed and happy. He said if Shastakhan took 60 days to capture a small earthen ground fort, imagine how long will Mughals take to capture entire Swarajya with its more than 250 forts, some embracing the clouds. He rewarded Firangoji by giving him Commandership of Bhupalgad (भुपाळगड).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At present the fort lies in an extremely sorry state. The wall fortification has collapsed and damaged at many places. The Main Gates are in ruins. Many residential buildings have come-up around the fort. A tar road runs through the fort. Children were playing cricket on the plain ground.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Fort ruins:</i></b></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BI7QOKQFJNc/USGtte1029I/AAAAAAAAKpY/NOZwEVeA-qk/s1600/WP_000310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BI7QOKQFJNc/USGtte1029I/AAAAAAAAKpY/NOZwEVeA-qk/s400/WP_000310.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Damaged Gate</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i-4NfRM-HOA/USGuariLyqI/AAAAAAAAKpg/K290WbohfA0/s1600/WP_000312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i-4NfRM-HOA/USGuariLyqI/AAAAAAAAKpg/K290WbohfA0/s400/WP_000312.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Collapsed Fortifications</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GYbY588BPGI/USGu4ozeSYI/AAAAAAAAKpo/9VeNhWGbTG4/s1600/WP_000313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GYbY588BPGI/USGu4ozeSYI/AAAAAAAAKpo/9VeNhWGbTG4/s400/WP_000313.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Moat is seen at some places</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dYKXXzjZgnI/USGwKN2Rc_I/AAAAAAAAKqI/ODn8vYR7qIE/s1600/WP_000317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dYKXXzjZgnI/USGwKN2Rc_I/AAAAAAAAKqI/ODn8vYR7qIE/s400/WP_000317.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>One of the 9 Bastions remained so far to tell the tale</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is a temple of Lord Vishnu (Damodar Avatar), as told by one of the locals there. Some group of people consider it to be Lord Munjaba (Shiva Avatar).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some renovations are going on. He told us that there used to be a very small temple which was reconstructed into a larger one. The old idol (which might be of Munjaba or Vishnu) is replaced with a new one of Lord Vishnu in a Damodar Avatar. The locals are in with talks with some builder to reconstruct the wall fortification. Hope that Sangram-durga returns back to its old glory that it deserves.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KVWuizGAD1o/USGv8fYxSjI/AAAAAAAAKp4/7xSLJms6MCo/s1600/WP_000316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KVWuizGAD1o/USGv8fYxSjI/AAAAAAAAKp4/7xSLJms6MCo/s400/WP_000316.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lord Munjaba / Vishnu Temple</span></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rq-hwL6xcb0/USGvQqXFUbI/AAAAAAAAKpw/FNJrPOXJC-g/s1600/WP_000315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rq-hwL6xcb0/USGvQqXFUbI/AAAAAAAAKpw/FNJrPOXJC-g/s400/WP_000315.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Place where old temple existed</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just next to the temple is Mosque which is said to be there from the Shivaji era.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OLgJ1FZI4Cc/USGsydEKiYI/AAAAAAAAKpI/B5FeggL5eB8/s1600/WP_000311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OLgJ1FZI4Cc/USGsydEKiYI/AAAAAAAAKpI/B5FeggL5eB8/s400/WP_000311.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Temple & Mosque side-by-side</span></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The road that goes through the fort reaches to the Chakreshwar Mahadeo Temple (Lord Shiva Temple). It is a peaceful site, a temple by the side of a constructed water pond. There is a rare sculpture of Lord Vishnu in a Varah (Pig) Avatar [however, I read about it after our trip; hence we didn't see this]. There is a Samadhi of Shandilya Rishi.</span><br />
<br style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By 6.30 pm we returned back watching the Sun set behind the fort.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKRf1GwdvqU/USGv9bwg3DI/AAAAAAAAKqA/IubviWi1ng4/s1600/WP_000318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKRf1GwdvqU/USGv9bwg3DI/AAAAAAAAKqA/IubviWi1ng4/s400/WP_000318.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Map:</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXIDA7FSU0h6itj-mKaTGZUcVzpk_PWUyAMrItQCxV0OffYiYEoAJX1a7kT-hYGvM8WpVv9WBQtIO0bNwGe_dj2qa3mBHdle6pLHPHh5EJT2cpq15vI63oHuVPI8iddVaIjas4tE9hOQF_/s1600/Sangramdurga.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXIDA7FSU0h6itj-mKaTGZUcVzpk_PWUyAMrItQCxV0OffYiYEoAJX1a7kT-hYGvM8WpVv9WBQtIO0bNwGe_dj2qa3mBHdle6pLHPHh5EJT2cpq15vI63oHuVPI8iddVaIjas4tE9hOQF_/s400/Sangramdurga.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Coordinates: </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=18%C2%B0+45'+25.152%22+N+++73%C2%B0+51'+48.348%22+E&hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=18.757076,73.862522&spn=0.011033,0.021136&hnear=0x3bc2c9f31e767099:0x9fd2f6cf1a7cd789,%2B18%C2%B0+45'+8.51%22,+%2B73%C2%B0+51'+48.81%22&gl=in&t=h&z=16" target="_blank">18° 45' 25.152" N 73° 51' 48.348" E</a></span></div>
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Kaustubhhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05993190445883612090noreply@blogger.com1Chakan, Maharashtra, India18.7602664 73.86303459999999218.7301964 73.822694099999993 18.790336399999997 73.903375099999991