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Trip to Panchgani

Panchgani, on the way to Mahabaleshwar from Pune, is one of the famous hill stations in West India. The serene ambiance is quite contrary to the hustle-bustle of Mahabaleswar. Just over a 200 km drive from Pune, this hill station is a perfect mountain retreat for the nature-craving souls who want to rush out of the concrete walls. Located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, Panchgani is named after the “panch” or five hillocks that surround the valley.

Sydney Point

Sydney Point was named after Sir Sidney Beckwith, who was Commander in Chief in Panchgani. The viewpoint offers a mesmerizing view of the Krishna Valley and the Dhoom Dam. One can climb up the stairs and from there, there is a small suspension bridge that offers a panoramic view of the valley. The other viewpoints like Tableland is so visible from here.

Parsi point

The panorama gives jaw-dropping view. It is such a delight for sore eyes. We were wondering how beautiful it must be during the monsoons. Just next to Parsi point is the famous restaurant, The Rainforest which offers lodging as well. This is one of the best must-eat places in Panchgani.

Kate’s point

This viewpoint is absolutely the best to see for the Sahyadri mountain range – the beautiful peaks of Kamalgadh, Pandavgadh, and Mandardeo.
Situated at an altitude of 1290 m, this viewpoint is named after former British governor Sir John Malcolm’s daughter Kate. Three different viewpoints comprise this place viz Kate’s Point, Echo Point, and Needle Hole Point or Elephant’s Head Point. Elephant’s head point is a nature’s marvel – the rock formation looks sublime!

Wilson Point

Named after Sir Leslie Wilson, Wilson Point is a vast plateau range. Wilson Point is the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. This point is the highest viewpoint in Mahabaleswar, being close to 1439 m. Both Sunset and sunrise can be enjoyed from this viewpoint – however, we missed both as it was sweltering summer. The road to the viewpoint is quite broken and has few u-pins so one should drive very carefully.

Babington Point

Elpinestone point / Arthur’s Seat

Elphinstone Point was named after Mountstuart Elphinstone who was the Governor of Bombay Presidency at that time. Discovered in 1830 by Dr. Murray, this viewpoint offers commands a panoramic view of the idyllic ravine created by River Koyna and River Savitri. Arthur Seat is also adjacent to this viewpoint.

There is an interesting myth about Arthur’s Seat that if you drop a coin here, it floats right back to you. We heard about it when we were near Wilson’s point and laughed out heads off! When we had finally visited Arthur’s Seat, we realised why this may be true. The gusty winds are so strong that a coin may just float if dropped – hence the myth! Try the myth at your own risk.

There are several food stalls – hot maggie can definitely spruce up the beautiful viewpoint experience. Parking near these viewpoints is chaotic so please plan accordingly.

MaPro Strawberry garden

Strawberry milkshake and chocolate dipped strawberries

Over time, MaPro garden has become a huge tourist spot. One can easily spend 3-4 hours roaming around not only in the strawberry garden but also in the chocolate factories. There are several food shops offering strawberry milkshakes and cream products. The price is a bit on the higher side but the shakes are very delicious! When We were visiting, there was a strawberry festival going on. There was the famous Tasha dhol performance and also a dance parade by the Marpo staff. Also, Mapro products are at 10% off here. You can get free samples for the drinks before deciding what to buy.

How to reach :

By Railway : Nearest station for Mahabaleswar is Wathar. One can easily available cabs or buses to commute to the city centre.

By Air : Nearest Airport is Pune Airport. You can hire out-station cab or Zoom car to drive over to Mahabaleswar which is around 120 Km by road.

Reach me on Facebook or Instagram if you have any questions regarding the travel to Panchgani/ Mahabaleswar.

Did you visit Panchgani – what places did you like? Do not forget to comment below about your experience.

Happy Travelling!

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Exciting Day trips from Hyderabad

Hyderabad is slowly and steadily making a presence in tourism sphere. Since Covid -19 protocols have relaxed, there has been a rise in tourism. We are here to share the two latest raved about tourist spots in Hyderabad which can be easily covered as day trip.

Statue of Equality

Ever since its inauguration in February, The Statue of Equality has been talk of the nation! We were taken aback by the teeming crowd, braving the afternoon heat of Deccan region. The Statue is located around 16 km from RGIA, on the Bangalore highway.

Chinna Jeeyar Trust, Hyderabad has constructed the statue of Ramanujan, to mark the 1000 years birth anniversary of Vaisnavaite saint Ramanujan. The project of building the statue was conceptualized by the Trust to promote the humble teachings and philosophy of Ramanujan. Ramanujan had preached moral values on gender, religion and caste equality. The main statue has been constructed from Panchaloha viz the five elements gold, silver, copper, brass and zinc. It was constructed in China and then assembled in Munchital, Hyderabad.

The statue is second tallest sitting statue in the world – its close to 216 feet in height. One can find the temple timings in their website. However, it is open daily till 6 PM on Weekdays and till 8 P M on weekends for public viewing. There is nominal entry fee for parking. However the entry ticket is prices at 150₹.

1 day visit to Ananthagiri hills

The site is very well-maintained considering the temple campus and there are multiple gate entries for better crowd control.

Night garden, Siddipet

Telangana tourism has done wonders to preserve the mighty Komati Cheruvu. We were absolutely blown away by the efforts of municipality to change a simple lake into an attractive amusement spot! Only second one of its kind in India, this glow garden also boasts of beautiful walk way named as “Ruby Necklace” and musical fountain near the hanging bridge across the lake. Entry can be taken both from the main lake entrance for Komati Cheruvu; or else there is ample parking space just near the entry point of the Night garden.

The Night garden is beautifully maintained with LED infotainment structures which include flora and fauna, interactive pathways, 3D Dynamic tunnel lighting and musical interactive piano.

Check out : 1 Day stay in Nagarjuna Sagar Dam

Entry fees for the Night garden, Ruby Necklace and the Bridge is 20 Rs respectively which is quite nominal. There is still certain part of the Ruby Necklace walk way which is under development. It is advisable to start atleast 2 hours before evening sets in to enjoy Night glow garden to the fullest!

Few snaps from Glow Night Garden, Siddipet

How to reach :

By Road : Frequently buses ply from Gachibowli to Siddipet/ Komati Cheruvu. There is no bus service from Gachibowli to Statue of Equality though.

By Air : Nearest Airport is Rajib Gandhi International Airport. You can hire out-station cab or Zoom car to drive over to Night Garden, Siddipet which is close to 2 hours by road. You can also book cab to Statue of Equality in Muchintal.

Reach me on Facebook or Instagram if you have any questions regarding the travel to Warangal.

Happy Travelling!

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Trip to Mysuru

Mysuru Palace

Mysuru Palace is the royal residence for the Wadiyar dynasty. It’s the thriving heartbeat of Mysuru and most travel day starts with a visit to this magnificent palace. Completed in 1912, there is grandeur in every nook and corner of the palace, especially the Audience durbar. The original palace was prone to fire hence the Royal family had commissioned Henry Irwin to build the new palace. The palace lights up during Dussera celebrations and is one of the major tourist attraction places in India.

St.Philomena Cathedral

One of the tallest Diocese churches in Asia, St Philomena church was built with inspiration from the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. St Philomena was a martyr of the Roman Catholic church. the relics are preserved in a catacomb which can be accessed by a staircase in front of the main altar. The towering spires are Neo-Gothic in style and bear a striking resemblance t the cathedral in Germany. the foundation of the church started in 1933 to encourage communal harmony.

Brindavan Gardens

This beautiful garden is built in the bosom of the Krishnasagara dam over River Kaveri. The gazebos are breathtakingly beautiful and the garden is spread across 60 acres with a separate house for orchids. The garden is dotted with beautiful water fountains. Sir Mirza Ismail built the garden with inspiration from the Lalbagh botanical gardens in Bengaluru. We did not stay for the musical fountain show in the evening however we hope to go back for that experience.

Tipu Sultan’s tomb

Tipu sultan’s final resting place is the Gumbaz. The Gumbaz is a dome placed on a cubical structure and decorated with beautiful ornamental railings with 36 black granite pillars in support of the dome. The Gumbaz is said to be inspired by Bijapur architecture. The mausoleum has Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan and Tipu Sultan’s mother’s burial inside the main dome.

Triveni Sangam

“Triveni Sangama” is the confluence of 3 holy rivers Kaveri River, Lokapavani River & Hemavati River. It is situated just few kilometers from the Tipu Sultan’s Gumbaz burial.

Nimishambha Temple

Sri Somavamsa Arya kshatriya Committee members commissioned this beautiful red stone temple in 2006. “Nimishambha” means that prayers are fulfilled within a minute. This temple is open from 6.00 AM to 1.00 PM and resumes from 4.00 PM to 8.30 PM. in the evening, however it is better to check on current timings. The temple premises are very peaceful and well maintained.

Chamundeshwari Temple

Perched on the top of the Chamunda hill is the famous Sri Chamundeswari Temple. ‘Chamundi’ or ‘Durga’ is the fierce and warrioe form of ‘Shakti’ who had slayed the twin demons, ‘Chanda’ and ‘Munda’ hence the name ‘Chamundeswari’. It is also said the ‘Mahishasura’ was killed by Devi Chamunda form of Maa Durga in the darkest hours of night. The temple is open from 7.30 AM to 2.00 PM and resumes from 3.30 PM to 6.00 PM. Though there is huge car parking area, devotees often climb to the temple via stairs on the other side of the hill.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

One of the prominent Hindu shrines, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple marks the sheer architectural grandeur mostly inspired by Hoysala style. Constructed in 894 AD, the temple is very ancient with several changes done over centuries. Devotees offer their prayers to Lord Vishnu on Sesh Naag with Goddess Lakshmi. The temple gopuram are adorned with intricate carvings in Vijayanagar style, depciting stories from puranas and holy scriptures.

How to reach :

By Road : Frequently buses ply from Bangalore and can be booked over Bus booking websites like Paytm. By car, you can follow the route as Bengaluru highway via Srirangapatnam.

By Rail : Several trains are available to Mysore Junction or Srirangapatnam station.

By Air : Nearest Airport is Bengaluru International Airport. You can hire out-station cab or Zoom car to drive over to Mysuru which is close to 3 hours by road.

Did you visit Mysuru – what places did you like?

Reach me on Facebook or Instagram if you have any questions regarding the travel to Warangal.

Happy Travelling!

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The Reading List

Can a library bring together two people who are otherwise poles apart?

Can books fill up void in our lives?

Sara Nisha Adams explores the possibilities in her debut book, The Reading List. When I had first picked up the January book of our book club, I did not check for much reviews or blurbs. I wanted to go in blind. The initial few chapters almost made me put down the book but my resolution to finish at least a book a month egged me to carry on. I am glad that I did! The book evoked old memories of my time spent in the United Kingdom. I was staying in the quaint town of Tysley and the nearest library was one in Acocks Green. In the first week of my deputation, I walked into the library to apply for membership. My heart did a hula dance when I was informed I could have close to 8 books at a time, I could request books, reserve books from other libraries – now that was an experience I last had in school. I revisited all those happy memories while reading the book.

“Please try to remember that books aren’t always an escape; sometimes books teach us things. They show us the world; they don’t hide it.”
sara nisha adams

Aleisha takes up a seemingly boring job at the library as her Summer job. Aidan, her elder brother heralded Harrows Road library as his refuge, quite contrary to Aleisha’s views. Caught in between her ailing mother Leilah and boring job, Aleisha prepares herself for a monotonous summer until she comes across a reading list.

Mukesh is an old, feeble widower who is desperate to change his unproductive days. His wife, Naina’s death has left a huge nothingness in his life. He chances upon a book his wife used to read from the library. Reluctant at first, he gingerly starts reading the book to cope up with his pain of loss of his wife. The book starts to heal his emptiness and he drags himself to the Harrows road library to ask for more books. Thus his path crosses with Aleisha. Grumpily, Aleisha suggests book from the reading list to Mukesh but they end up discussing the books.

An unlikely friendship starts taking shape and the duo start relying on each other through book recommendations. The books mentioned in the reading list play their unique magic on the two individuals- sometimes quite different from each other’s experience. Anything more which I may say, may be a spoiler!

“These are the books that brought me closer to myself, that shaped me and my world — I hope they’ll bring you light and joy and, if you ever miss me, you’ll find me within their pages.”
Sara Nisha Adams1

Though the underlying theme of the book is friendship, The Reading List is an ode to bibliophiles. The book gushes on how lucky we readers are! We can find consolation in stories that resonates with our lives and also sometimes, escape to a fantasyland of the book world, leaving behind our sorrows.
Pick up The Reading List with an open heart -specially if you are a beginner!

You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your views on books.
Cheers to Reading!

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Trip to Coorg

Kodagu or Coorg is one of the most idyllic hill stations in Karnataka. Coorg has it all! The lush green spice and coffee plantations dotted throughout the forest-covered terrains. Exotic scenery mesmerizes the travelers. Madikeri is one of the centers for tourism.

We had stayed in Sannidhi enclave homestay. We were greeted with warm welcome however there is no kitchen facilities so it is better to carry dinner from town. Most of the places close by 7 PM so kindly plan accordingly.

Raja’s Seat

This spot was a favorite place of recreation for the Rajas where Raja used to spend time with his queens and consorts. The place offers beautiful view of the horizon and the play of clouds in early morning. It is one of the most important tourist spots in entire Madikeri.

Raja’s Tomb

Raja’s tomb is located in Mahadevpet, which is just 1.5 km from Madikeri. The campus has three tombs which were built for the royal dynasty. The largest central tomb belongs to the Kodava king Doddaveerarajendra and his wife Mahadeviamma.

Abbi Falls

The falls is located around 8 km from the Madikeri town centre and 122 km from Mysore. The road from the Raja’s towb take to Abbi falls. there is ample space to park vehicle as there is paid parking.

Namdroling Monastery

The Namdroling Nyingmapa monastery which is also known popularly as the Thegchog Namdrol Shedrub Dargye Ling. the moastery is the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. There are lot of good spices shop near the monastery. The monstery was closed for visitors due to Corona spread.

Glen Lorna Tea Estate

The lush green tea estate overlooks the lofty step hills. Glen Lorna is the only tea plantation in Coorg. there are stay options in the tea estate or you can travel to Madikeri for over night stay.

Mrityunjaya Temple

Another 12 km from Glen Lorna tea estate, Mrityunajay temple is located in very remote part of Coorg and one must reach by car. Google maps shows teh correct way but one has to be extra cautious while driving through private coffee plantations on the way to reach it.

How to reach :

By road: Tourists can reach Coorg via SH27 by road. Frequent buses,both Government and private, ply from Bengaluru.

By air: Nearest airports are Mysore, Mangalore and Bengaluru. Manglore and Bengaluru are international airports located 135kilometer and 260 kilometer away respectively. Taxis are available from airports to Madikeri.

By train: The main train junction stations close to Coorg are Mysore, Hassan and Manglore.

Did you visit Kodagu – what places did you like?

Reach me on Facebook or Instagram if you have any questions regarding the travel to Warangal.

Happy Travelling!

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The Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed, and Happiness

“The premise of this book is that doing well with money has a little to do with how smart you are and a lot to do with how you behave.” sets the tone of the book. Morgan Housel shares a string of stories from around the world wherein he proves his ideas for saving and managing money. It is years of practice that later becomes one’s natural habit to identify patterns in savings and investments – the assiduity that goes into determining the actions and the reactions to money earned or saved, or getting gifts from others. The book talks volumes about the preservation of wealth, the correct pursuit of monetary happiness. This is a book that I wish I had read in my early 20s then probably I would have had a changed perspective towards

“Spending money to show people how much money you have is the fastest way to have less money.”

Listen to the book

“Planning is important, but the most important part of every plan is to plan on the plan not going according to plan.”

Morgan says to save money according to the goals. In the book, he describes that the goalpost should however be dynamic and should move further away as you are almost close to it, that way it will be easy to determine the priorities of where money needs to be spent. When it comes to the adopted habits, it is better to have a clear idea. One should always ask oneself :

Is money going to enable your happiness?
Is money enough to secure the future and have stability?
Is the money enough for comfortable living or an ultra-expensive lifestyle?

“There is no reason to risk what you have and need for what you don’t have and don’t need.”

To sum up, saving money and accumulating wealth are two different goals. Years of self-disciplined regime in saving money may help you to accumulate wealth, it may help you to achieve the level of financial security you have been striving for. As much as, with time, different purposes may add to the list and the goals will keep evolving. Often unforeseen expenses also derail us from our targets. Consistency is the key to success.

You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your views on books.
Cheers to Reading!

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Colours of Red

The new Commandant Shaurya is posted to ‘Dandakaranya’ meaning ‘forest of punishment’ in Bastar based on his previous accomplishments. He is aware that his chances of getting a post of his choice, near to his family, will be better after serving in one of the most sensitive areas in India.

Bastar is a Naxalite war zone. Troops are engaged to maintain peace however the dismal policies taken by politicians, mismanagement of funds, and loopholes in proper plans lead to futile efforts. Shaurya pens his frustrations and loneliness in his diary until he meets Shenaya. He falls for Shenaya despite his loving family. What happens in the jungle, stays in the jungle – but Shaurya missed the fact that the jungle here in question was the dangerous foliage of Dandakaranya. Jumping over mines on land and in his personal relationships with equal difficulties, Shaurya is a changed man at the end of the story. His venture of walking on a tightrope teaches him lessons on love and trust.

Last winter, I had travelled by road through the dense forests of Kanger valley through the city of Jagdalpur in Bastar. While reading the book, I could almost relive the memories from the trip.

Rakesh Kumar Singh in his book, Colours of Red, has brilliantly blended his CRPF posting experiences into the story; the depiction of the pains and hardships of commander has been painted with true colours of red.I am looking forward to the other books written by the author. One must pick up this book!

You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your views on books.
Cheers to Reading!

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Diwali gift ideas under 500₹

We have had enough of Soan Papdi jokes around Diwali celebrations. Why always get a box of Soan Papdi when you can get better gifts almost at the same price? Presenting a list of 5 items which will make the perfect unique Diwali gifts for home celebrations or even for bulk gifting in offices.

Idol Diya Oil Lamp

The ideal gift for Diwali celebrations is idol idol-shaped Oil lamp. This is crafted carefully from metal and is a perfect choice to pass on your best wishes for Diwali puja.
Buy here at 349₹

Haldi Kumkum Box

Haldi Kumkum Box is an essential addition to any festival so it is only relevant to gift this elegant looking haldi kumkum holder.
Buy here at 199₹

Looking for Diwali decoration items?

Floral Bowls and Spoon

A Hard Anodized, beautiful floral-shaped set of bowls and spoons is a gift worth its price!
Buy here at 299₹

Aroma candles

Ideal for small spaces, these aroma candles are very pleasing. The smoke-free flame and non-residue burning are additional advantages of these pure soy wax candles.
Buy here at 385₹

Tealight Candle Holders

Diwali gifts are incomplete without tealight holders – These metallic dangling tealight holders add subtle warmth to decor and is perfect value for money!
Buy here at 279 ₹

Please note that the list has been curated based on ratings and reviews. The blogger does not have any personal affiliation with any of the products. Let us know in the comments below, what other products do you think should have been included?

You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your views; or share your comments below.

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Home decor items for festive season

This listicle is perfect for all the households who will be celebrating Diwali – get the festival of lights in all galore and pomp with these exquisite decor items.

Lotus Urli

It is an exquisite piece of beautifully handcrafted bowl that can be used for both floating flowers or even floating tea light lamps. Urli ushers prosperity and is placed at the door entrance usually.
Buy here at 698₹

Hanging electrical diya

This set of hanging electrical diya has 7 dim neon bulbs in each diya and one brass bell at the base.
Buy here at 597₹

Oil Lamp

This handle is shaped in om – this metal diya can be easily used for aarti and adds more to the home temple or even office temple, for Diwali celebrations.
Buy here at 359₹

Haldi Kumkum dabbi with lid

This is a beautiful and multi-utility item that can be used for Diwali aarti, especially for applying haldi kumkum to ladies.
Buy here at 395₹

Click here to find Diwali gift ideas!

Toran

Stitched on velvet cloth, this beautiful craftsmanship example is an addition to the home temple entrance. Please make sure you have supporting tape to hold the toran in place.
Buy here at 379₹

You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your views; or share your comments below.

Please don’t use the photos without permission.

Sydney Point

Parsi point

Kate’s point

Wilson Point

Babington Point

Elpinestone point / Arthur’s Seat

MaPro Strawberry garden

Atomic Habits: An Easy and Proven Way to Build Good Habits and Break Bad Ones by James Clear

The Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed, and Happiness by Morgan Housel

Catalyst: The Ultimate Strategies on How to Win at Work and in Life by Chandramouli Venkatesan

Remnants of a Separation: A History of the Partition Through Material Memory by Aanchal Malhotra

Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope by Mark Manson

Statue of Equality

Night garden, Siddipet

Mysuru Palace

St.Philomena Cathedral

Brindavan Gardens

Tipu Sultan’s tomb

Triveni Sangam

Nimishambha Temple

Chamundeshwari Temple

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Raja’s Seat

Raja’s Tomb

Abbi Falls

Namdroling Monastery

Glen Lorna Tea Estate

Mrityunjaya Temple

Idol Diya Oil Lamp

Haldi Kumkum Box

Floral Bowls and Spoon

Aroma candles

Tealight Candle Holders

Lotus Urli

Hanging electrical diya

Oil Lamp

Haldi Kumkum dabbi with lid

Toran