Eating And The Right – Hand Rule

The biggest minefield of potential faux pas has to do with eating. This is usually done with the fingers, and requires practice to get absolutely right. Rule one is: eat with your right hand only. In India, as right across Asia, the left hand is for wiping your bottom, cleaning your feet and other unsavory functions (you also put on and take off your shoes with your left hand), while right hand is for eating, shaking hands, and so on.

Quite how rigid individuals are about this tends to vary, with Brahmins (who at the top of the hierarchical ladder are one of the two “right handed castes”) and southerners likely to be the strictest. While you can hold a cup or utensil in your left hand, and you can usually get away with using it to help tear your chapati, you should not eat, pass food or wipe your mouth with your left hand. Beat is to keep it out of sight below the table.

This rule extends beyond food. In general, do not pass anything with your left hand, or point at anyone with it either: and Indians won’t be impressed if you put it in your mouth. In general, you should accept things given to you with your right hand – though using both hands is a sign of respect.

The other rule to beware of when eating or drinking is that your lips should not touch other people’s food – Jutha is a strictly a taboo. Don’t, for example, take a bite out of a chapati and pass it on. When drinking out of a cup or bottle to be shared with others, don’t let it touch your lips, but rather pour it directly into your mouth. This custom also protects you from things like hepatitis. It is customary to wash your hands before and after eating.

Fit for a king – Salar Jung Museum

Day 1 in Hyderabad

My conference was scheduled to begin at 3 in the afternoon so I had enough time to explore the historical town. I inquired about the town from a room boy in my hotel. He advised me to visit the museum, as it is one of the best of its kind in the world.

Fit for a king – Salar Jung Museum

The museum houses the rarest art collections in the world. From sculptures, paintings and toys to weapons, jewellery, clothes, textiles and manuscripts, the exhibits have been hand picked from across continents. Traveling over sea and land, through agents and antique agencies, one man collected these objects of beauty and enshrined them in his house. Many a state guest or VIP was invited to view this rare collection of Salar Jung third, an erstwhile Prime Minister to the last Nizam of Hyderabad.

Salar Jung Third’s love for art impelled him to give up his high post and travel widely in search of treasures to bring back home.

Having inherited a couple of antiques from his father and grand father who also served the same post, his passion for antiques developed early. After his death the collection was shifted out of his residence and was kept into the present 10-acre premises where it was then opened to the public for viewing. Currently under the ministry of culture, a board of directors manages the museum.

The museum has three wings and 36 galleries, which consists of artifacts from about 34 countries. The not to be missed zones are the founders gallery, Ivory collection, Rebecca gallery (which contains the statue of the veiled woman),

Modern India Paintings, jade room, the western Block (where there are five galleries that contain paintings, the famous double statue, glass work, clocks, European porcelain, marbles and bronzes) and the Japanese and Chinese Galleries.

Complete with food courts, curio shops, drinking water facilities and benches to rest your tired legs, the museum is a well maintained and orderly.

I was busy seeing the nuances of the collection when my phone rang…it was a call from a friend reminding me the time and also that I have to attend the conference…

On Eco Trail...

On Dusshera a friend of mine visited my place. While talking to her she advised me that why don’t I travel to such places which are ecologically rich. Instead for traveling like this here and there why not opt for ecological destinations in India. A better word would be Eco-Tourism.

The idea somewhere left a mark in my mind. Well next 2 weeks went into meeting the targets in office, but the idea stayed there. After 14 days of hard work I did a lot of net surfing and a thorough research on Eco tourism in India. Somewhere a lost geographer woke up in me…Well but I needed a reason or a chance to go there, as have no holidays left.

It was late in the evening of 16 October when I received a letter regarding a conference on 24 October in Hyderabad. This was a good reason for me to visit the region and I don’t need many offs from office to visit the place especially when the Diwali holidays are standing on my doorstep. I mean it was Thursday and my Diwali holidays were starting from Saturday.

I did a lot of net surfing on finding the places in Andhra Pradesh, how to reach there, where to stay and all other basic queries. The biggest problem, which I was facing, was as of where to stay and how to travel within. Was just wondering when Pooji reminded me of Indiahotelreview.com. (I have got my hotels booked by them earlier also).

I left a query on their site in the Q n A section regarding my stay in Hyderabad, as it is the capital of the state and is easily accessible by air. Apart from Hyderabad I asked for the hotels in Vishakhapatnam, Kurnool, Tirupati, Vijaywada and Pulicat. The Q n A expert replied to my query within half an hour asking for my budget and dates for stay. And then the travel in A.P. and accommodation part of my trip was taken care by the IHR people. Within next two hours my hotel reservations were done and a cab was booked.
IHR team really works hard and fast. In the afternoon of 17 October I got a call from IHR confirming if I have received the travel voucher.

Finally I reached Hyderabad at 10.40 pm by kingfisher airlines. There was a cab waiting for me at the airport. The driver took me to the hotel Siddharta where a prior booking was done. I asked the driver to come next day in the morning at 7 so that I can see the beautiful capital city before I start on my eco-trail.

I went into my room had my dinner and went to sleep as I wanted to be fresh in the morning…

n ya a lot of thanks to all those who helped me in making this trip com true..., Pooji, Indiahotelreview, and Swapan (she booked my air tickets)

Gud Nite..!!
:)

3 Days With Nature in Peace - Shilon Bagh, Shimla

What was just an idea a week before became a well-planned weekend outing with my cousins . We were just thinking about meeting over a weekend to relive those golden childhood memories. And it culminated in a trip to Shilon Bagh, Shimla

This place is few kms ahead of Kasauli, about 390 kms from Delhi on Shimla - Kufri road. So we started on Thursday night as to reach there well in time. It’s almost a drive of 10 hrs from Delhi. Since we had two- three stop over in between, we reached there by around 12 on Fri Morning.
We had our rooms booked at Toshali Royal View Resorts. It is located away from the habitation in the valley all surrounded by undisturbed mountains.

We all were so tired by then that we just had our lunch got fresh & headed straight towards our beds. We didn’t want to waste our time so after one hour relaxation we went for a trek down the hill. Trust me that was the call of the time. The place was so very close to nature with nascent hills around. It is a good exploring walk with pure air to breath. What we experienced was just amazing pine forests and then wood logs lying on the roadside.

This place is basically known for its serene surroundings & tranquil environment. Not a place for sight seeing and all that. One shall go there to just relax and rejuvenate. In the evening there was a DJ party for a group from MNC. We were keen to tap our feet too so we took special permission from the host to allow us in. The night was spent amongst some drinks for the boy’s n dance for the girls.

Early next morning me n pooji went for the sunrise point around 3km trek from the hotel on the other side of the hill. After reaching there what we saw was just out of this world. We were at a place where clouds were just below us, rather you can say that we were walking in the clouds n sun was rising on the other side. And within some moments we were like walking on a orange carpet specially laid for us by the mother nature welcoming us in that astonishing world. That feeling was worth more than anything and that made our trip worth memories which non of us can never forget.

On the way back we witnessed pine forests, chirping of sparrows & sun rays getting on the mighty earth. We came back to the hotel, woke up the other people and decided to leave by 10 anyhow to Hattu Peak, it was around 52 kms & 3 hrs drive from the hotel, known for Goddess Durga temple. We reached the base by around 1 p.m.. Four of us decided to trek through the jungle and rest went along the road. Again a decision to optimise the thrill & fun that we were having enough till now. We came across fallen trees that became prop for my sister’s modelling instincts………steep heights to test our fitness, wet grounds testing our persistence and narrow walk ways putting our lives to threat. At one point we felt like giving up but going down the hill seemed more difficult then trekking up.

We had lost clue on what way to choose…but fortunately we came across a newly wed local couple who were coming back from the temple & assured us that we were on the right track. We kept going and lastly passed a big rock and suddenly realised we were there. It was a sense of achievement and victory.

There was a small temple and some local kids were chanting “Jai Mata di”. It was a hill top from where we could look all around and what heavenly it was. We could see the sun rays above filtering through the clouds below and lighting the valley. It was a trekking experience of life time.

This was a splendid day way from the start in the morning till night when we celebrated my niece’s birthday around a bon fire back at the hotel.

We woke up next morning to start our journey back to Delhi. On our way back we took another route via Chail & thus visited the highest cricket ground in the country. And also a mid river restaurant, a perfect spot to gulp some beers & have a walk on the river bank.

So this three day weekend getaway ended on Sunday Night around 11 in night. These three days were just heaven because of the peace and beauty that is quite synonymous with Shillon Bagh. It totally refreshened and rejuvenated the natural me with in.

Get hooked at Corbet - Things to do.

Nature’s heaven let loose in form of greenery bathed valleys, impenetrable jungle, wild residents, incessant flow of water … such is the magic of Corbett National Park. The whole of Jungle is a sign for those who know how to decipher it. Get hooked to the home of wilds and decode it tree by tree, species by species and through the quondam Forest Rest Houses. The safaris, bird watching, tigers and elephants are just the tip of the iceberg, with a gamut of activities left to be explored in the forest. Of course tiger spotting happens to be a part of the thrill, but Corbett is a gift of the fresh eye and untrammeled curiosity. As tigers might be a chance and fat luck, there will be deers, crocodiles and whole host of other animals- including wild boars, otters, mongoose and snakes- to see and hear, and an year round ever changing natural beauty lend in by nature to welcome you heartily. Once in Corbett, check out on the following activities that live you with a hang-over of it. >>Safari Options Safaris are best ways to enjoy the picturesque locales of nature’s exclusive paradise at Corbett. There are several safari options available inside the reserve, depending upon the choice and time of the visitors. Here are the detailed accounts of safari preferences available to the tourists.    >>Fishing With many rivers, sots and perennial and seasonal water bodies, there are plethora of chances for fishing.   >>Rafting Adventure lovers can have a scoop of thrill at Kosi River in Corbett. Rafting or White Water Rafting can be enjoyed during the monsoon season when the park is officially closed for visitors.    >>Bird Watching In a ritual at the advent of winter, birds from the upper Himalayas descend to the reserve and colonize every available niche in the forest. The reserve is transformed into one of the finest ornithological retreats in the world.   >>Watching Movies and Reading Books A day long jeep safari can be too exhausting for any visitors. Ever thought about curling up in bed and catching some books on Corbett.    >>Walking the trails Walking on a leaf-strewn path amidst all greenery is a refreshing feeling. Strolling on the undulations of valley is another pleasure bestowed by nature in Corbett.   >>Trekking near Corbett Tie your laces to get ready to trek those heights. Trekking is an offbeat adventure at Corbett and allowed at certain places only.   >>Wildlife Photography A picture is worth thousand words!!! And it is worth ten million words if it’s a wildlife photograph. Well, where else can you spot tigress protective of her kids, woodpecker at home, elephants in a jolly bath and all those species getting extinct, other than at Corbett National Park. >>Adventure at Corbett Staying at Corbett Tiger Reserve is a thorough enjoyable experience in itself. The tourist complex and resorts here offer an array of escapades to indulge in. >>Outdoor Corporate Camps An office away from office is a new emerging concept in corporate cosmos today. And Corbett Resorts happen to be promising place in respect to the Corporate Camps. >>School Camps If you think that no TV and no all natural beauty would bore the kids, you’re absolutely wrong. Corbett for kids is all manifestation of their imaginary and cartoon world.

Flora and Fauna of Corbett

With an area of 521 sq km and more than 75-year-old history, Corbett National Park is India’s wild pride. Having celebrated its diamond jubilee recently, Corbett is considered as a ‘jewel in the crown’ of India. Established in the year 1936, Corbett National Park is an awesome sanctuary which has Ram Ganga River along the upper Ganges as its core and Himalayan Mountain as its backdrop. Located in Nainital district of Uttrakhand, the park is mammoth reservoir of endangered Bengal tiger and part of Patlidun Valley. Better known as “Corbett National Park & Tiger Reserve”, the main target is preserving royal tigers of Bengal. 

Spanning across a huge area, the park shelters many endangered species: 50 mammal species, 549 bird species and 26 reptile species. Amidst these treasured charms of hariyali (greenery) and dense jungles, Corbett displays a unique allure of being India’s first and foremost National Park. 

Since its establishment in 1936, the park has changed several names before finally taking its honour as Corbett National Park. Initially the park was named as Hailey National Park, covering not-so-wide areas of 323.75 sq km, followed by another renaming as Ramganga National Park in the year 1954–55 and finally as Corbett National Park in 1955-56 by the angrezs (British).

Corbett Tiger Reserve has an area of 1300 sq kms covering forest, hills and grassland that are fed by frisky river. It has a biodiversity that is rich and rare. The ambience is a simple retreat for city dwellers and wildlife lovers, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Corbett is, in fact, a large valley with a long axis from east to west, with an elevation ranging from 400 meters to 1210, meters. The park teems with 110 species of trees, 51 shrubs, 27 of climbers, 37 grasses and bamboos. Some of the prime plantations that catches one’s attention are haldu adina cardifolia, pipal ficus religiosa, rohini mallotus philipensis and mango mangifera indica are also commonly found. Sheesham dalbergia sissoo is found along the Ramganga River.

Other common and trees of important uses are rohini, mainly converted to vermillion or sindoor, used by women on their foreheads. Kattha, which is used for chewing with beetle (paan) in India, is also found here. This is good herb used for mouth infection. Bel, a hard-shelled fruit grows quiet wild here. Trees like amla and sanjana are also found growing abundantly in the jungle riches. The park is noticeable for its sal, bakli, khweta, pula, dhauri, bhilawa, ber, papri, kumbhi, mahwa, trichoniya, rohni and jamun.

The silence of jungles, flora and highly favorable climate spells magic on wildlife species in Corbett, for Corbett is kneaded with innumerable wildlife species. Presently, 549 species of birds, 26 reptile species, 50 mammal species, and 7 species of amphibians are housed in the sanctuary. Besides the regular species found in the dense jungles, there are many species like: elephants, tigers chitals, sambars, hog deer and barking deer, crocodiles, gharials, monitor lizards, wild boars and jackals. Also found are nocturnals like: leopard cat, jungle cat, fishing cat and sloth bear, Himalayan black bear. Some of the small resident of the park are dhole, Himalayan palm civet, Indian gray mongoose, common otter, black naped hare and porcupine. Along the Ramganga River, one can spot fish eating crocodiles and mugger crocodiles. The Langur and rhesus monkeys are well distributed through the park.

What to see in Corbett National Sanctuary?

An enormous wilderness all along, the mellifluous notes of cuckoo’s song in the woods, the gentle whistle of crisp clean air, rustling leaves … Corbett National Park is just not about tigers, but a lot more… How about meeting elephant cows and shaking hands with untamed tuskers, deciphering tweeters of the birds and skipping a beat on hearing the roars…Take a off from maddening city rush and gear your ways to the wildest natural haven on earth- The Corbett National Park.

Buffer Zone	Dhikala	Bijrani
Jhirna	Crocodile Pool	Gettheryo
Dhangarhi Museum	Kaladhungi Museum	Corbett Falls

>> Buffer Zone

 Corbett Tiger Reserves covers a colossal area of 1318.54 sq km in total, and is segregated in two parts: the Core area (520.82 sq km) and Buffer Area (792 sq km). Corbett Buffer Zone spans from reserves forests and Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and constitutes 19 villages in all. Unlike reserve area, it is the lesser known delights, alongside Main Park, underlined with an official title—the Buffer Zone. Interestingly, unlike the main park Buffer Zone area only two modes of transport—four legged (elephant safari) and another four wheeled (jeep) are allowed—the buffer zone allows only walking. This surrounding area to the park can be strolled on foot `unencumbered`. Not to be missed, the buffer zone is loaded with nature`s wonders, and borders the main attraction of the park. Of all the major avian species found in Corbett and areas abutting Corbett, the buffer zone shelters around 600 species of birds, most of which are migratory birds. Sprawling with vast acres of wilderness, dotted with villages and sunrays filtering amidst the tall sal woods, it is truly a magical to go a walk on the lanes here. And, there is no better way to bird watching than this.

 >>Dhikala

 One of the gateways to Corbett National Park, Dhikala happens to be a tempting attraction at Corbett, just at 40 kms North West of Ramnagar. Situated on the edge of Patlidun Valley, Dhikala is punctuated by the concurrence of Ramganga River channels and is known to be the largest and most popular grassland of the park. Claoked with vast grassland, it proves to be a great spot for wildlife viewing. To top the beauty strokes at Dhikala, the Kanda ridges provides breathtaking backdrop here. To have an awesome view of the place one can watch it from the watchtower near Dhikala.

It can be accessed through Dhangarhi Gate and is not open to those who have a permit to stay overnight in one of the Forest Rest Houses. The Tourist Complex overlooks Dhikala Chaur (one of the largest remaining grasslands of the Park) and Phulai Chaur. A walk or drive through these trails makes you see some of the prized wildlife possessions like elephants, chital, hog deer and numerous grassland bird species and raptors. All seen and done you can’t ignore the beauty of old Forest Rest House, constructed by Britishers long, long ago.

 >>Bijrani

  An excellent hunting ground of the erstwhile British rulers, Bijrani is another place which permits day visits. Its landscape comprises dry forest vegetation with diverse flora and fauna species. The area falling under Bijrani is inundated with pocket-sized water bodies generally referred to as Tal- a Hindi version for streams and water bodies. Dotted with Mailani Tal and Phul Tal and many seasonal ponds like Kithcher Sot, Reethapani Sot, Khina Sot & Malani Sot, Bijrani attracts lot of wildlife residents like sambar, deer, chital, para, barking deer, India python, viper, cobra, krait and the dreaded king cobra and various type of lizards. Alongside, it throws chances to spot tigers, elephants. Drawn in by sweet nectar of Mahua flowers, the sloth bears and normal bears are often found in an intoxicated state after they consume Mahua. Nature Beckons!!!

 >> Jhirna

  Commonly known for its Forest Rest House, Jhirna is extensive grassland with much drier vegetation than that found in Bijrani. The whole of Jhirna can be accessed from Amanda gate and if you intend to find the Forest Rest House, located within, you must proceed on the southern boundary of the park, on the road from Ramnagar to Kalagarh that spans through east west direction of the park. In much similar pulse to Bijrani, Jhirna too is decked with perennial and seasonal sots and gorges running across it. Watching toward the north of Jhirna tourists can find picturesque scene of thick bamboo plantations. There are quiet bright chances to spot leopards, tigers, sambar and other mammals too. Jhirna treasures flocks of avifauna species seen mostly in the evenings.

 >>Crocodile Pool

A vast pool of clean fresh water, Crocodile Pool is a breeding area of crocs and many other reptile species. It happens to fall en route the elephant safari path and is a must-see place for wildlife enthusiasts. It is situated on the short cut path from Gairal to other Rest House on the west of the pool. The view is appealing with balcony like natural construction to it, which provides elevated look to the pool inhabited by the crocodiles. The sight of crocodiles lying by the pool and inside the water is both attention capturing and scary! One can easily spot male member because of its giant size. Some claim he is almost 18 feet from the tip of his snout to the tip of his tail. The pool also has many muggers, Mahseer carps and giant catfishes. The area near the stream and closer to upstream is inhabited by small fishes. Also, if lucky enough you can spot the happy-go-lucky elephants cooling off in the water. Be ware of not playing or nearing the water as crocs are very receptive to their baits above water.

>>Gettheryo

 Gettheryo is a name of the riverbed located toward the west of Khinnanauli nearing Sambar Trail. To reach to Gettheryo you must take right of the forked path that comes 200 yards off the Sambar Trail. It is a huge stretch of dry land and rocky riverbed, inundated by seasonal stream water throughout. There is a high possibility for seeing tigers and elephants here. Often, one can spot herd and pack of animals drinking water near by. Sitting on the bank of stream and near by water body zero in chances of viewing animals and beautiful locale decked with many twisting streams and elongated islands of Khair Sissoo trees.

>>Dhangarhi Museum

  Located at Dhangarhi, the museum at Dhangarhi is a good stoppage for watching one-time wildlife species. The museum has glass boxes containing head of tigers and elephants, killed in fight long back.

 Note: Entry Fee is Rs 5 for Indians and Rs 10 for foreigners. Children below 5 are exempted from paying the fee and children in the age group of 5-12 years are charged a nominal fee of Rs 1. Photography is permitted in the museum without any extra charge.

 >>Kaladhungi Museum

  Placed at a distance of 3 km after Kaladhungi town toward Nainital, opposite to the crossroad from where the road moves to Nainital via Khurptal, the Kaladhungi Museum is a place worth visiting. A hunt for historians, backpackers and travelers, Kaladhungi Museum is also Jim Corbett’s winter retreat displaying personal articles, paintings, sketches, manuscripts and last hunt of its owner. The whole of museum is historical site that lends an insight into Jim Corbett’s life and era he lived in.

The bungalow is of lime mortar colour and has preserved many personal items such as original manuscripts artifacts, palanquin (doli) and letters written by Corbett. The edifice was converted and declared as museum by Forest Department of India in 1967 and thereon is considered as a Government property. Interestingly, one can find a souvenir (Mothi Souvenir) shop attached to the museum; it has a dial up internet facility. 

Note: Entry Fee is Rs 5 for Indians and Rs 10 for foreigners. Children below 5 are exempted from paying the fee and children in the age group of 5-12 years are charged a nominal fee of Rs 1. The visiting time is 7.00 am – 6.00 pm and the museum remains closed on Sunday. The kaladhungi museum observes no holidays except that of Holi, in the month of March. The best time to visit is the months of January through March. Photography is permitted in the museum without any extra charge.

 >>Corbett Falls

 Go ahead 3 kms from kaladhungi and you will be welcome by nature’s sound of water. Yes, you are at Corbett Falls. Visiting the fall might put your idea of Kempty Fall on stake as it is much entice than Kempty Falls of Mussoorie. The cool clear water cascading from a height is a beauty worth admiring. Above all, the passage that leads you to the Fall will mesmerize you much before you reach there. The 1.7 kms long path with chirping and flights of birds send you a clarion call for a heaven ahead. Corbett Fall is undoubtedly beautiful; rustling leaves and killing silence definitely charm every visitor here.

 Note: Entry Fees is Rs 5.00 for Indians and Rs 10 for foreigners. Photography is allowed free of cost. Bathing is permitted but be careful of slippery-moss-gathered stones as they might make you slip.

A day in Bhopal

Bhopal, capital of Madhya Pradesh known as the City of Lakes as its landscape is dotted with a number of natural as well as manmade lakes. We boarded Bhopal express from Nizamuddin station at 9 PM and reached Bhopal in morning at around 7. We had our accommodations booked by IndiaHotelReview.com at Hotel Lake View Ashok, situated on Shyamla Hills. The hotel over looked the Upper Lake, a man made lake that was built by Raja Bhoj, once ruler of Bhopal.

We had to attend a conference in the morning at Bharat Bhawan. Bharat Bhawan is one of the most unique national institutes in India known for the performing and visual arts. The Bhawan has a museum of the arts, an art gallery, a workshop for fine arts, a reparatory theatre, indoor and outdoor auditorium, rehearsal room, and libraries of Indian poetry, classical and folk music. And the best part is its location. After the conference we just thought of relaxing at the banks of Upper Lake. You can clearly hear the sound of each & every wave crashing at our feet. It was so relaxing after almost half a day of presentations & some regular lectures.

It is believed that the Bhopal Lake was built by late Parmar King Bhoj approximately a thousand years ago and now is known as Upper Lake. The Upper lake is divided from the Lower by an over bridge and is six sq. km. in area. There are facilities for exciting trips by sail, paddle, and motor-boats.

After lunch at the Hotel, we called our cab driver who was also booked through www.indiahotelreview.com so that we can go for sight seeing around the city. Bhopal is a small city and can be easily covered in a day but we wanted to explore the 11th century city Bhojpal which was founded by Raja Bhoj. But the present Bhopal city was established by an Afghan soldier, Dost Mohammed whose descendants build Bhopal into a beautiful city.

We started with Taj ul Masjid. This is the largest mosque in the country. The most imposing features of the mosque are its main hall with inter-arched roof, broad facade, spacious courtyard, and smooth marble flooring. It is also said to have the tallest minarets in Asia. Then we went to see the Birla Mandir. It is so beautiful. After the Mandir our driver took us to Jama Masjid situated at the centre of Chowk Bazar, a busy business centre of Bhopal. This Masjid was completed in 24 years. It is said that to built this Masjid, an amount of Rs. 60.5 lakhs was spent way back in 1837.

It was dusk when we decided to return back. On our way back to hotel we decided to visit Nariman point of Bhopal. It is a huge bridge built on the upper lake connecting old city to Bairagarh, where airport is located.
Instead of having dinner at the hotel, we decided to try some local delicacies and the person to guide us was our cab driver. Finally we reached old Bhopal a heaven for non vegetarians. The driver told us that the bye lanes at the inner city Chowk offers some of the best curries and kebabs in Bhopal.

I had read some where that “The Muslim cuisine of Bhopal is distinctive from its fellow cuisines in other parts of India and its master chefs are much in demand.” The driver took us to Karims corner. We were a bit confused as what to order but our driver asked the waiter to serve us with the best of his restaurant. Our driver asked us to give him a call when we’ll be through with our dinner and left. While going out he went to the person sitting on the billing desk, pointed towards us and told him “ki memsaam loog dilli se aaye hai ache se khilana.” The waiter came to us to ask weather we are veg or non veg. As we told him non vegetarians he said loudly char-grilled kebabs on table no. 7. Before we could finish with the kebabs the steaming plates of biryani with rich curries were served. After that we don’t know what all we ate. We tasted so many things.

We had our plans chalked out for the morning starting from the sunrise. So we headed straight to our rooms to do what we are best at…sleeping.

We had our morning tea with breath-taking sunrise at the upper lake as the backdrop. We wanted to stay there more but had to catch our bus at 11 for Bhojpur – Bhimbetka. The journey was worth as we travelled from pre historic age to medieval lakes to present day Bhopal. Bhopal is a fast catching city on the urban culture. One think that I noticed in Bhopal was that number of women driving two wheelers was more than the men and on the same hand there were Burka Clad girls studying in madarsaa.

In total it was an over whelming response that we got. This city knows how to welcome the guest and literally justifies this saying “Atithi devo Bhava”

Travelling Tips

Ah … at last I m back home and now its time to write down my experiences and share it with all … Well, this time I went on a trip to Kerala. During my all past trips I have faced many problems and learnt many things. There are various safety measures that one should take care of while traveling. Specially, when you are a girl, but I must mention, these days it’s not safe for guys even. A traveler should be prepared for every thing. Below I am mentioning some of the precautions that one should take care of….

* You should always plan your trip in advance and if possible then by
a registered, qualified and recognized tourist guides.
*Leave your itinerary, expected date of return, hotel’s name, address
and number with your friend and family members.
* Don’t carry too much of hard cash with you.. Instead prefer for cards or
traveling Cheque.
* Keep a record of your cards with you.
* Keep all the important numbers handy.
* Do not count cash in open.
* Avoid wearing expensive jewellery, provoking clothes.
* Always carry your purse close to your body, or your wallet in an inside
front pocket or wear a money pouch.
* Keep a record of the content of checked luggage.
* Keep your room locked at all times
* Hand the key in at the desk when you leave the hotel.
* Try not to look like a tourist by making obvious that it is your first time
in the area.
* It is better to explore in groups and stick to well-lit busy streets.
* Be attentive and always keep an eye on what's going on around you.
* If you think someone is following you, take out your cell phone and pretend
to make a call. Say the word police with enough volume for the person
following you to hear.
* Avoid going out unnecessarily in odd hours.
* Ask your hotel staff to arrange a cab for you
* Know about the place where you are heading towards before you start
the trip. Get a map of the route and study it.
* Make sure that the car is in a good condition; learn how all the windows,
door locks and other equipment work before you leave.
* Keep the doors of your car locked at all times and wind the windows up.
* If your car is bumped by another car, think before you get out. If you are
in doubt or feel uncomfortable, signal to the other driver to follow you to
a nearby police station or a busy, well-lighted area where it is safe to
get out.
* Do not ask strangers to take you a group picture no matter how friendly
they seem.
* Look around you and be aware of your surroundings. Remember, an area is not
safe just because you are familiar with it.
* Walk actively and confidently. You must always try to make eye contact with
the people around you.
* Carry your bag around your neck and diagonally across your body. Do not
carry it hanging over one shoulder. You may as well clutch your bag and
hold it to the front.
* Put your wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket not a back pocket.
* If a vehicle follows you, never try to outrun it. Turn and walk in the
opposite direction. React by yelling or shouting if possible.
* Hide your cell phone and do not walk around talking on a cell phone, as it
will distract you.
* Avoid taking short cuts through deserted areas such as parks, empty areas
and passages.
* Do not feel embarrassed to leave an uncomfortable situation.
* Select sightseeing companies and guides carefully. Make sure they are
legitimate. Check with your hotel staff for recommendations.
* When asking for directions, first look for a police officer or another
public employee (i.e., bus driver)
* Pickpockets are often attracted to crowded places. Be aware of someone who
bumps, shoves or gets too close.
* Carry a flashlight with fresh batteries, flares, a fire extinguisher, and
first aid kit
* If you stop overnight, remove bags and other valuables from the car and
take them inside.
* Purses, wallets, checkbooks and other credential items should never be left
in an unattended under any circumstances.
* If the room key is lost, ask for a different room, or ask for the locks to
be changed.
* Don’t open the door with out checking. Use peephole, if available, or talk
through the locked door. If someone claims they are from maintenance,
security or a hotel employee, phone the front desk to make sure the visitor
is legitimate.
* Label all pieces of luggage with your name, address, and phone number, both
inside and outside. For the outside label be sure to use a tag that closes,
so the information can't be read by a passerby.
* Always lock your hotel room door, even if just going for ice. Check
sliding glass doors, windows and connecting room doors.
* If your credit cards have been lost or stolen, always notify the police and
your credit card company immediately. If credit cards are not reported
missing, they can be used.
* Remember that alcohol consumption diminishes awareness.
* Avoid discussing your travel plans with strangers.
* Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
* When taking a taxi, shuttle van, or bus, remember to note the company’s
name and the vehicle number and Color.

These are just some of them, which I noticed and felt like sharing….

"HAVE A HAPPY AND A SAFE TRAVEL!!"

Sai Baba – Sabka Malik Ek

Shri Sai Baba is the essence and incarnation of spiritual enlightenment and religious harmony. He awakened people to the eternal truth. "Sabka Malik Ek".(One God governs all). He wanted to provide each one with two powerful tools. That would make them stronger and wiser - `One` being `Shraddha` (Faith) and other being `Saburi` (Patience). He preached to the mankind:

• God is, and there is nothing higher than Him. He is perfect, infinite and eternal. He is omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient. He is the creator, sustainer and destroyer. Surrender voluntarily and totally to His will. Trust in Him and do the right. Let the inner light (enlightened conscience) guide all your actions.
• To know me constantly think "Who am I?" by sravana and manana. Who are we? What are we? Where are you? Where is all this world? Think and think. In reality you are not different from God.
• I carry on, as a wirepuller, all the actions of the man who trusts me and merges in me.
• Faith in God is the only anchor for the ship of Samsar, whether smooth or troubled waters.
• Look to me with undivided attention; so will I look to you. This is the only truth My Guru taught me. The four sadhanas and the six shastras are not necessary. With entire confidence trust your Guru. That is enough
• I will be with you, whenever you think of me. Do not fear.

Kakad Aarti Composed by: Sant Tukaram Maharaj

“Bhaktaachiya potee bodh kaakada jyoti
Pancha prana jeevehbave owaaloo Aarti
Owaaloo aaratee maajyza pandhareenaatha majyza sainathaa
Donhi kara jodonee charanee ttevilaa mathaa
Kaay mahima varnoo aataa sangane kitee
Kotee brahma hatyaa mukha pahataa jaatee
Rahee rakhmaabaayee ubhya doghee do baahee
Mayur pincha chaamara dhaaliti thaayee che thaayee
Tuka mhane deep ghewuni unmaneet shobhaa
Vittevaree ubha dise laawanya gaabhaa
Owaaloo aaratee”

Translation
With fire of devotion glowing in our hearts, we offer Kakad Aarti to thee! Igniting our five vitalforces (pranas) and the sense of ego as wicks in the Aarti lamp, we offer Aarti to thee.Oh! My Lord of Pandari, Sri Sainath, hail to thy glory! With folded hands, I humbly lay my head on thy holy feet. How can I describe thy ineffable glories? Even billions of deadly sins such as brahmahatya(killing a brahmin etc.) shall be purged just by the mere sight of thy hallowed face. Rayee and Rukhumabai, standing on either side, gently fan about thee with chowries (royal fans) made of peacock feathers. Tukaram
holds the lamp (of knowledge) aloft lauding thy divine splendour, absorbed in blissful rapture. It is verilya sight for the gods and a feast for the eyes to behold Lord Vittal standing gracefully on a brick (of bhakti).

Surat to Shirdi via shortcut: 4 tyre punctures, warm engine, a buffalo attack & Sai Kripa.

It was a usual visit to one of our conferences yet unusual as this time we were going to present papers in the conference. All others attended so far were more of paid holidays to go around the place. The moment we decided we were to go to Surat all three of us knew we were definitely going to Shirdi too. Our conference was for three days and so was our stay there. We had booked our tickets to and fro and stay in Surat before hand but journey to Shirdi could not be planned as we were not sure of our presentation days and timings but we were determined to make it happen by any means. On our day 1, as we reached Surat we dumped our bags in our hotel and rushed to the conference venue to find our presentations schedule. To our disappointment three of us had our presentations on three separate days; Esha’s was to follow in next 2 hours at 2 in the afternoon, mine was at 11am the next day and Pooji’s at 12 noon the 3rd day and we had our train back to Delhi same night. We did not seem to find any time spare for our Sai darshan at Shirdi. We did not think of that much then as Esha’s presentation was up in some time.

Shirdi is about 300 kms from Surat. We decided to hire a private taxi, as we wanted to save our time. In Shirdi the Darshan time is 6am to 9.30pm so the journey should be scheduled accordingly.

After my presentation was over at 11.30am on the 2nd day I was sadder for not being able to go to Shirdi rather than being happy for my wonderful presentation (as told by the attendees). For us unfortunately nothing seemed to work as earliest we could leave by 12 noon that day and latest we had to come back by 12 noon the next day for Pooji’s presentation. To reach back Surat in time we had to start latest by 5am, before the mandir was open so the morning darshan was out. It seemed that there was no way we could make it.



If we started immediately then we could have reached by 6.30 pm which seemed a decent time and margin left for the Sai darshan. We contacted a Taxi stand near by our hotel. We were immediately given the available esteem and the driver told that he would take us via a shortcut so that we could attend the evening arti at 5.30. We all were thrilled and after checking for car papers and driver’s license we started on our journey; Surat to Shirdi via shortcut.

Once out of the Surat city the scenic beauty is amazing on the way. We have to drive uphill to cross through and reach the other side. The shortcut was a new road built through the forest with long in between distances without any habitation. For long we did not see any vehicle going in either direction on the road. This thrilled us more for being fortunate to explore the new not so ventured area and we would be able to attend the evening arti too. It was not long for our fun when the driver stopped the car saying the tyre has got punctured. Thankfully he had the extra tyre but not so thankfully as it turned out to be a tyre of a Santro which would have not very much supported the car for long. We needed to mend the original tyre as early as possible. After about half an hour of changing the tyre we reached some habitation with restaurants and all. We planned to take a hault for late lunch but our tyre had already planned a hault before us, the extra tyre also got punctured. But this time fortunately in front of a mechanic shop. In the time we had our lunch the driver got the punctures repaired for both the tyres. We started of again hoping that nothing would go wrong after this and despite of two punctures so far we were not worried. The journey went smooth thereafter for some 2-2 1/2 hours when the engine heated up and some steam started coming out. The technical people may understand what went wrong but for us we were told that the car would not speed up above 40 km/hr otherwise the engine would heat up and would not work. This irritated us to our core. Dammed, by 40 km/ hr. Only Baba knew what time we would reach. And we were at a point where returning back was equally distant from moving ahead. The way things were going wrong my friends questioned if at all Baba wants us to visit Shirdi. But we were determined what so ever may happen we were going to Shirdi and left it on Baba to give or not give us the pleasure of his darshan.

Anyways, as we were washing hands and drinking water at the hand pump on our way a buffalo appeared at the site. For fun I tried to capture Pooji, Esha and Buffalo all in one frame without telling them. I waited for the buffalo to come nearer for the picture perfect but as I clicked the buffalo went mad and ran after Esha. I shouted, Esha turned around and ran towards the car. God, why the hell I was waiting for the buffalo to come near and what the hell happened to it. Well the good part was the buffalo did not follow Esha. Had it been a bull and Esha was wearing Red?

‘Mam just 2 hours more’, a man helping us with the directions on the way said. It was already 7.30 then. And now we were worried. We were hoping to reach atleast by 9.30 and just have a glimpse of the Sai baba. Few minutes ahead… third puncture the same tyre. I felt that this cannot be a co-incidence to have faced all these adversities. There has to be a role of Baba in all this, what so ever he may want, our reaching to him or not. And if this is so then Baba was definitely around us. And if he is around then nothing is more than that. I felt that we were unnecessarily struggling to reach him without realizing that he was already around us. I was now very sure that how much ever late we may get Baba would let us have his Darshan as we were his chosen ones.
We were again lucky to have a puncture shop just in front who mended the tyre in 10 mins. Although we had the extra tyre but we chose to mend the puncture as we did not know what may come next. With our slow spead we reached the mandir at 10.10 pm. As we reached we were told to hurry up as the gates and entry was to be closed for the night time arti and it was already unusually late for the arti in the mandir that day. It was a bonus. We missed the evening arti but we were able to attend the night arti that to when we were about to even miss on the glimpse of Sai Pratima. We quickly bought the prashad and entered. We were the last ones to enter. There was not much of crowd inside.

The managers there asked the people to move in I don’t know what manner that we reached very ahead in the crowd right in front of the Sai pratima. The curtains were raised and the Arti started. I had not attended any arti with so much peace and pleasure in my lifetime. I knew I had Sai around me and we finally could make it for his Darshan. More than for just eyes we had Sai darshan for our souls. Why would have the trip went so and the arti got unusually delayed? Thank you Sai baba. With out all this mishap we would have had darshan of only the Sai pratima not Sai in our souls.

After Arti and long comfortable mighty darshan we came out to the driver. It was 12 midnight and we wanted to start back after having some snacks for the dinner. To our no more surprise the tyre was again punctured, the fourth time and the same tyre. The driver told the tyre got punctured as we reached the mandir premises. He had not told us earlier as we were rushing to the mandir and in the mean while he could not find any of the puncture shops near by. We decided that we shall not start then with the extra tyre as it may not run for long and in the night on the way we may have to see some more troubles. But we had to reach Surat by 12noon the following day. So we decided to leave at 4am and by the time we would be on the highway the puncture repair shops would open. We took a room and rested for a while in Hotel Shraddha Park.
We started at the scheduled time with the Santro tyre running in maruti esteem and surprising to our unexpectation the tyre ran well for 1 hour and before it got puncture we found a puncture repair shop. We got our original esteem tyre repaired and replaced the Santro tyre. We took the more conventional longer route to Surat this time and left our reaching to the conference in time on Sai baba. The scenic beauty of this longer route was much more fascinating then the short cut. There was lot of greenery and a spring and water filled natural reservoirs at places. It was an exhilarating experience while our drive down the hill. We drove slow with no more punctures on our way back and reached well in time at 11.30am at our hotel. Pooji freshened up and reached her session just on time. And she presented well.

Since then I have been once more to Shirdi with family from Delhi via Nasik; to Nasik through train and bus from there to Shirdi. It was comfortable, as Sai knew that we now know that he is always there with us.



I am going for the darshans again next week….

"JAI SAI RAM”

"Sports Tourism"

“The spirit of adventure, the challenge of elements and the thrill in conquering.”

This is what fires the young blood into adventure sports. The new corporate culture expects you to have the spirit of adventure, the love of a challenge and wind in your skills.

The new breed of young professionals, especially with the I.T. industry and BPO’s ensuring the young generation have lots of money to spend, have brought new hope to sports tourism. Many call centers are using adventure sports as team – building exercise.

Adventure is there in air, water, snow and land. One can select the ideal one: less dangerous means less adventuring, but one can start with. Sports tourism is fast catching on in India as it is somehow attached with adventure sports.

The directorate of mountaineering and allied sports, Manali, has been imparting training in various disciplines of adventure sports since 1961. Every year the institute trains over 500 persons in Mountaineering, skiing and water sports.

Mussoorie, Nainital, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Almora, Ranikhet etc are famous for adventure or sports tourism.

A less expensive but slightly more painful way of getting your nerves in action is rock climbing. Sport climbing is less dangerous. Trekking and even camping form part of sports tourism.

Delhi has some of the most developed rock climbing areas. The road from Delhi to Chandigarh is adjoined by places suitable for mountaineering. In Ladu Sarai, Wellington Crescent, Qutub etc, we can find rock climbing facilities.

With so many hills and mountains, India can go high as far as mountain biking is concerned. Flying is an addiction. Once tried, it never leaves the blood stream. Flying boosts confidence and relieves stress as well. Many corporates are approaching flying clubs as it is an excellent distress.

Paragliding is the aero sport freak’s dream come true. Security clearance for air space is the only problem. One needs to be at least 50 – 100 km away from major cities with airports. Para- gliding is a mix of parachuting and hang gliding and is considered to be one of the easier aero sports to learn.

Skiing started as a sport in India as early as in 1927. Holidaying in zero temperature itself is a thrill. Skiing adds adventure to the holiday. The winter delights of the icy surfaces are little exploited.


Over 6000 tourists, rather adventure sports lovers, come to Rishikesh every year. Rafting season starts in the second week of September. The white water Challenge in Rishikesh is popular in and outside India. Canoeing and Kayaking are also introduced in white water.

There is a lot more scope for sports tourism. Different states and even local bodies can come out with plans as per the facilities available in their villages. The hilly areas, the forest areas, the streams, the rocks, and canals and plateaus can be used to its advantage.