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Showing posts from March, 2024

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...

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...