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Chiang Mai and Samoeng Circuit, Thailand

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The city close to nature, foodies’ paradise, grand temples of intricate architecture, dotted with quaint villages and a scenic mountain road circling through villages, jungles, waterfalls, and farms, Chiang Mai is a balanced blend of urban life and peace of mind. I stayed in a homestay run by a very courteous couple in one of the by-lanes close to the Old City. Pancakes cooked by the host were so delicious that I made them my regular breakfast every morning. I explored the Old City and night market for 2 days and dedicated the rest of the days to traveling to nearby villages and completing the scenic drive of the Samoeng Circuit. Wat Chedi Luang Varaviharn The Old City, walled on four sides, is the most happening place in Chiang Mai, bustling with cafes, restaurants, pubs, street food carts (one of them being Michelin Star!), hotels, tourists, and not to forget grand temples, and there are lots of them, each one equally beautiful in its own way and charming. The most popular among them...
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Bangkok The City of Angels (Krung Thep), Thailand

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If there were ever an epitome of diverse peaceful co-existence, Bangkok would be its insignia. This vibrant and diverse city masterfully balances the vibrant and seductive life of modern city with the deep-rooted traditions and rich history of its cultural heritage. Skyscrapers, luxury malls, and an electrifying nightlife blend harmoniously with its stunning temples, palaces, and cultural landmarks, all along the Chao Phraya River that runs through the heart of the city. Known affectionately as Krung Thep, the City of Angels, Bangkok is a true testament to serene coexistence. Reclining Buddha in Wat Pho As the sun rises over the vibrant city of Bangkok, your day begins with a visit to the iconic Wat Pho, home to the majestic Reclining Buddha. Wander through the tranquil grounds, marveling at the intricate details of over a thousand Buddha images. Experience the serenity of morning prayer, held at 9 am and 5 pm before the temple closes. I found it very peaceful, the rhythmic sounds calm...
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Sheen and Kangri of Kashmir, India

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  Sheen meaning snow in Kashmiri language and Kangri, the traditional pot that keeps the chill at bay, brings to mind the memories of cozy conversations with loved ones, sharing hearty meals as the cold air swirls around us. Sheen and Kangri, two contrasting elements that, when brought together, reveal the true essence of Kashmir—the beauty of its nature, its food, its people, and its culture; its  Kashmiriyat that goes beyond one's beliefs. This travelogue is a journey into the heart of my homeland, a quest to chase the snowfall and, in the process, rediscover the hidden gems of Kashmir. The western disturbances were approaching the northern region that would cause moderate to heavy rain and continuous rain could trigger snowfall even in the plains of Srinagar. Similar to the contrasting nature of Sheen and Kangri, the inclement weather brought inconvenience to those reliant on the roads for their livelihoods. However, it also offered a silver lining—a precious opportunity fo...
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Location: Jammu and Kashmir
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The Unchartered Goa, India

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Envisioning Goa without its vibrant nightlife, sun-kissed beaches, and the rhythmic pulse of full moon parties is nearly impossible! It stands as a haven for party enthusiasts and those yearning for the serenity of its southern beaches. However, beyond the bustling shores lies a facet of Goa that is equally enchanting, tranquil, and veiled from the common eye—awaiting discovery by those who venture beyond the beaches. As the monsoon descends, it breathes new life into the Western Ghats, transforming the entire landscape into a lush green spectacle. The beaches along the Konkan coast, stretching from Maharashtra through Goa and a bit beyond, embrace the off-season, trading their lively demeanor for a more subdued ambiance. While the Western Ghats come alive with verdant hues, cascading waterfalls, and ethereal mist, the beaches don a cloak of tranquility as ocean waves reclaim the coasts, prompting most beachfront shacks to shutter their doors. It is during this season that Goa's co...
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Ras fushi, Maldives

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 When one thinks of Maldives the first sight that appears is pristine white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and blue lagoons. Maldives is all of this and much more ! The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka. It is composed of 26 coral atolls, which are made up of more than 1,000 small islands. The capital city of the Maldives is Malé, which is situated on the island of the same name. Malé is a bustling and vibrant city, home to the majority of the Maldivian population. It showcases modern buildings and stunning traditional architecture, with the impressive gold-domed Malé Friday Mosque as a prominent landmark. Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives. For the un versed, here is the short description of Atoll, Lagoon and Coral Reef before we explore this beautiful country. Lagoon : A lagoon is a shallow body of water separated from the open sea by a barrier, such as a coral reef, sandbar, or barrier island. Atoll : This i...
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Location: Maldives
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Idukki, Kerala

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When it comes to hill stations in Kerala, Munnar is undoubtedly the renowned gem that captures global attention for its tea plantations. While Munnar steals the spotlight as the charming hill station destination, it's one of the many gems nestled within the serene district of Idukki in Kerala. During my exploration of Idukki, I was spellbound by the abundant natural wonders this place possesses .  Let's embark on journey to explore Idukki; God's own hill retreat in God's Own Country. Idukki, nestled in the enchanting Western Ghats of Kerala, is blessed with captivating mist-clad hills, lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, tranquil lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, Sandalwood forests, Spice farms, Trekking routes and for its famed rolling Tea Plantations Idukki offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.  In ancient times, Idukki was inhabited by various indigenous tribes like the Muthuvan, Malayarayar, Urali and Paliyan, preserving their unique tradi...
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Location: Idukki Twp, Kerala, India
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Vineyards of India, Nashik

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  Imagine embarking on a wine tasting journey through the rolling lush green hills where the landscapes evoke the same charm of Napa Valley's picturesque vineyards and the rolling green hills reminiscent of Tuscany's famous wine regions. In this travelogue, we will explore Nashik which is all of it and much more. India boasts an ancient winemaking tradition that dates back to 6000 BC, establishing it as one of the world's oldest wine-producing regions. This rich heritage gave rise to a range of ingenious techniques resulting in a diverse array of wines, including Sura (crafted from rice, barley, and herbs), Madhu (a honey-based mead), Phalapaka (crafted from locally sourced grapes, pomegranates, and other tropical fruits), and Draksha. However, it was the British colonial influence that introduced European varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chenin Blanc. This infusion of European techniques and indigenous practices laid the foundation for contemporary winemak...
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