From
Kullu Manali (KULLU MANALI MAJESTY) to Chandigarh. India's first planned city, Chandigarh stands as a
testament to modern urban design and efficiency. Renowned for its
well-organized sectors, lush greenery, and wide avenues, Chandigarh blends
functionality with aesthetic charm. Designed by Swiss-French architect Le
Corbusier in the 1950s, the city boasts clean, tree-lined streets, serene
parks, and distinctive architecture. Chandigarh serves as the capital of both
Punjab and Haryana states, fostering a vibrant cultural scene alongside its
administrative importance. As a model of sustainable urban living (HOKKAIDO WINTER TIME), Chandigarh
continues to offer a tranquil yet dynamic environment (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND).
During the six-hour journey, we
encountered unexpected challenges. Several tour members fell ill with stomach
upset, vomiting, nausea, and fever. Despite their boasts of extensive travel
experience across India, they were unprepared for the winding mountain roads, plus,
I reckon it’s the effects of late-night meals followed by over-eating again at breakfast
buffet. This lack of foresight led to unscheduled stops for fresh air and
medical assistance, disrupting the journey. Some had to visit the doctor while
others waited on the coach.
Next
on our itinerary was Kullu Manali (SHIMLA ESSENCE OF HIMALAYSAN GEM). After a comfort break and lunch, we arrived
at the Westin Hotel and Resort in Manali past 10 PM. Declining the late dinner,
I headed straight to my room and was impressed by its cleanliness and comfort.
A refreshing shower marked the end of my day before bedtime. The buffet
breakfast the next morning wasn’t remarkable but provided the necessary fuel for
our activities at Rohtang Pass (HOKKAIDO WINTER LUST).
Rohtang Pass, nestled in the majestic
Himalayas at an altitude of about 3,978 meters, holds significant historical (VARANASI SACRED GANGES) and geographical importance. It has served as a crucial trade route since
ancient times, connecting the lush Kullu Valley to the arid Lahaul and Spiti
Valleys. The name Rohtang translates to "pile of corpses" due to its
challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, which historically made it a
difficult passage. Today, Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking vistas of
snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows.
Once
I dismounted from the horse (SHIMLA - CAPTURING NATURE'S LOVE), the guide shared his number for arranging the ride
back down the hill. After waiting for ten minutes and seeing no sign of the
rest of my tour group who had opted for the ride, I decided not to wait any
longer. I paid the entrance fee and began my trek up the uneven path.
As I
ascended, the challenge became evident - each step tested my endurance and leg
strength. Halfway through, I found myself questioning whether to push forward
or turn back. Despite the struggle, I continued, passing stalls selling various
local products on both sides of the path (PRETORIA MOMENTS & CAPE TOWN MAGIC).
While my interest in shopping wasn't
particularly high, the allure of local bites and drinks was hard to resist.
However, observing food vendors handling items without gloves in such a dusty
environment gave me pause. The lack of covering for the food at these stalls
added to my concern.
My walk eventually brought me to what seemed like the viewpoint (KATAGARAMA SRI LANKA) at Mahasu Peak, where I hoped to catch an overview of Kufri or even Shimla. However, the area was packed with locals who showed no signs of moving. Waiting for my turn seemed futile, especially considering the time constraint to rejoin my tour group, so I decided to return to where my guide was supposed to meet me.
After waiting for 20 minutes with no response to my calls, he finally appeared, casually taking photos as I called the horse "Darling." He corrected me, revealing the horse's name as "Raku." Oh, the innocence of it all! I thanked him profusely with a namaskar and a token before we embarked on the ride downhill.
Back
in the van, we switched vehicles midway and eventually reached Jakhu Road by
4:30 pm, missing out on visiting the Shri Hanuman Mandir and Christ Church as
per our itinerary. Despite this, hunger was gnawing at me after climbing steep
steps, and all we could find was Cafe Under Tree. Quite a surprise! Famished,
we indulged in a mix of Western and Indian vegetarian dishes - Mushroom Fried
Rice, Vegetarian Biryani, and Manchurian Kofta - all delicious and reasonably
priced.
Satiated,
we returned to the hotel where the experience of bucket bathing added a
nostalgic touch to our day. Seated on a stool, filling the bucket and using the
scoop brought back memories of simpler times, reminiscent of my childhood in
Jalan Chan Ah Thong Brickfields government quarters. A classic way to end my
adventurous day in Shimla.
Waking
up (UTTAR PRADESH), oh-my! I realize that I am in Shimla. Shimla is like a love name for me,
just like how I felt when I was in Jaipur and also Agra. Shimla, nestled in the
serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, holds significant historical importance as
the former summer capital of British India. Established in the early 19th
century, it served as a pivotal center of colonial administration and cultural
exchange, reflecting the grandeur of Victorian architecture and British
influence. Today, Shimla stands as a testament to its storied past, attracting
visitors with its cool climate, panoramic vistas of the Himalayas, and a blend
of colonial charm with vibrant local culture. Its enduring appeal lies not only
in its historical significance but also in its role as a picturesque retreat (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND).
Back to India (NEW DELHI & JAIPUR ),
this time to explore Shimla and Chandigarh. On another solo trip, I joined a
tour group with a mix of familiar faces (CHENNAI & MADURAI )and new acquaintances for a 7-day,
6-night adventure. The journey began in New Delhi, where I finally hit the bed
in my room past 1 AM. By 8:30 AM the next morning, we were on our way to
Shimla, embarking on an almost 10-hour road journey. Leaving New Delhi on a
busy Saturday, we faced peak weekend traffic, taking at least an hour to get
onto the roads leading to Shimla (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST & GALLE SPOTS).
About two
and a half hours later, we stopped for a comfort break at Mama Yadav, Shiva
Dhaba in Babugarh, Uttar Pradesh, which was bustling with people. After a quick
visit to the loo, I opted for a fresh, hot tea in a clay cup instead of sitting
down to eat. The experience of watching the tea being poured into the clay pot
made me grin, and the taste was delightful, transporting me to an ancient time
While exploring sightseeing spots in Kuantan (KUANTAN COASTAL WONDERS) I discovered the Shivan Temple in Gua Charas Panching, which led to an unexpectedly profound journey. We parked at the base of the hill, where the ascent up a steep, uneven stairway tested our resolve. My friends, initially skeptical and grumbling about the difficulty, were reluctantly drawn onward by our determination to reach the temple. The drive to the foothill was equally challenging, with its bumpy, rocky terrain (VARANASI SACRED GANGES, MADURAI SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS, KERALA TEMPLE & KATAGARAMA TEMPLE).
Visiting
Kuantan (SULTAN AHMAD SHAH MOSQUE) is incomplete without exploring its stunning beaches, known for their
mesmerizing natural beauty. These beaches are a favorite among Malaysians from
various regions, especially during weekends, public holidays, and school
breaks. They also attract tourists from around the globe.
With the beaches already on my mind, we
made our way to one of these scenic spots. I can't pinpoint the exact location,
as there were no signboards, but the experience was unforgettable. The blue
waters were simply breathtaking, and just gazing at them felt incredibly
fulfilling (KUALA PENYU TRANQUIL NATURE & CAPE TOWN NATURAL STUNNER).
I
ended up in Kuantan. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, just a drive with no
plans whatsoever, going with the flow. Actually, it was to break free from the
mundane life and welcome something new. Landing in Kuantan, I checked into
Vistana Kuantan (now known as AC Hotel Kuantan). The room was lovely, with
nothing to fault. Next, I made a call to meet up with two friends who fetched
me from the hotel, and we took a drive around Kuantan town before I chanced
upon the Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque (Masjid Negeri, Masjid Sultan Ahmad 1).
During my stay in Kota Kinabalu, I decided to step out of the hotel (RANAU ECO-TOURISM GEMS) in
search of breakfast. After walking a bit, I found myself at a humble halal
kopitiam that seemed to call out to me. To my surprise, the breakfast spread
was more like a lunch buffet, with a tempting array of dishes. I savored, lost
in the enjoyment of the food, but I forgot to jot down the name of the place.
Classic case of being caught between hunger and the chaos of a wandering mind!
In Kota Kinabalu, the next day after visiting Kota
Belud (KOTA BELUD UNTAMED BEAUTY) I set out to view two sights. The information needed for these visits
was still fluid, but it took about two hours before a decision was made to head
to Ranau. This serene district, approximately two and a half hours from Kota
Kinabalu, is steeped in historical and cultural significance. Established in
the late 19th century, Ranau's history is deeply intertwined with the colonial
era and World War II.
The Kundasang
War Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic Sandakan Death
Marches, honoring the thousands of Australian and British prisoners of war who
perished. Culturally, Ranau is a melting pot of indigenous groups, including
the Dusun and Kadazan people, whose traditions, languages, and customs enrich
the region's cultural tapestry.
Between
the 1st and 3rd day, I met up with several people in Kota Kinabalu, which
served as my base. What and what not, I will let you know after the finale of
my so-called looking for new ventures in Sabah. On the 4th day, I decided to
include some sightseeing. I arranged and paid for a drive to Kota Belud. This
trip was also to explore this part of Sabah and assess its potential for future
ventures, which I can't disclose more about (KUALA PENYU TRANQUIL NATURE).
The drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kota Belud
takes about 1 ½ hours, and I requested stops along the way for some
discoveries. We stopped at Gerai Kelapa Bakar Kak Tini (Lokan Bakar &
Puding Kelapa) on Jalan Sulaman Tuaran, Kota Kinabalu. It's famous for Kelapa
Bakar, where whole coconuts are roasted to perfection, resulting in tender,
smoky coconut flesh and uniquely flavored coconut water. The
coconuts, with their hard outer shells, are roasted over charcoal, and once
done, the shells are peeled off before serving.
A
few months ago, I took a trip to Sabah with the goal of meeting new people and
exploring fresh opportunities, as promised by an expert who claimed to know the area inside
and out. I boarded an early morning flight to Kota Kinabalu and, driven by
hunger, made a beeline for the McDonald’s at the airport. Sometimes convenience
trumps local flavor when you’re starving. The place was crowded, but I managed
to squeeze in and eat to my heart's content.
With my hunger addressed, I took a cab to
the Hotel KK Waterfront in Warisan Square, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu. While
the hotel itself was nothing remarkable - though clean - the windows provided a crucial connection to
the outside world, which is essential for someone like me who prefers not to
feel trapped in a room. The main draw for choosing this hotel was its prime
location: directly across from the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront and surrounded by
various eateries and convenience stores, making it an ideal spot for my needs.
It's
time to talk about the buffet breakfast at Harper Mangkubumi, and trust me,
you're in for a treat! I haven't yet introduced you to this culinary delight,
and now is the perfect moment (JOGYAKARTA EXPOSURE). By now, you probably know how much I adore
Indonesian cuisine and our local Malay Malaysian food. Oh, yes, please! The
buffet breakfast at Harper Mangkubumi was a feast for the senses during my
stay (COLOMBO DISCOVERY & NEW DELHI REVELATION).
The variety was astounding, even featuring different Jamu concoctions,
those traditional herbal drinks. Although I’m not a big eater and not usually a
breakfast person, I couldn't resist sampling the array of dishes. Such a sensational meal, including the desserts that left me in awe. I know I'll miss this
breakfast spread (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST) once I leave, and I'm sure you'll agree with me after seeing
it for yourself.
After
an action-packed morning filled with thrilling adventures (MOUNT MERAPI JEEP TOUR), lunch was a
much-anticipated respite. With a sparse breakfast and energy spent, I eagerly
looked forward to a hearty meal. Finally (SEOUL THROUGH MY EYES & CHENNAI DISCOVERY) we arrived at Restaurant Timbul Roso,
albeit a bit later than planned. The stunning rustic ambiance, highlighted by
rich wood tones, made me feel as if I had walked into a luxurious home in
Jogjakarta. I longed to sit outside amidst the mini nature jungle, but our
group of four opted for the comfort (OSAKA SUNSETS) of the indoor dining area.
Adventure
was calling, and I was ready to answer. The Mount Merapi Jeep Tour promised an
experience (JOGYAKARTA TEMPLES) like no other, and while my previous travels had already seen their
fair share of thrilling escapades (HOKKAIDO SNOW MOBILE & VARANASI GANGES), I was eager to see what this adventure had
in store. As we arrived at the starting point, the sun blazed overhead, and the
air was thick with dust. Grateful for my trusty scarf- a staple of my travel
gear - I wrapped it around my face and prepared for the ride (CAPE TOWN SEAL ISLAND & PRETORIA MOMENTS).
Mount Merapi, Indonesia's "Mountain
of Fire," loomed majestically before us. This active volcano, near
Yogyakarta on the island of Java, is infamous for its frequent and powerful
eruptions that have shaped the surrounding landscape and the lives of local
communities for centuries. Its fiery temperament has caused extensive damage
and loss of life, yet it remains an integral part of the region's culture and
spirituality. Those brave enough to hike its slopes are rewarded with
breathtaking views and a profound appreciation for the raw power of nature.
Our
day began at the crack of dawn in Borobudur (BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND), capturing the essence of our
journey to Jogjakarta. This iconic site, the highlight of our trip, was just
the beginning (SOUTH AFRICA PRETORIA MOMENTS) of our temple exploration in Central Java. A short 2 km trip
brought us to Candi Pawon Temple, a lesser-known but equally fascinating
Buddhist temple. This small yet impressive structure, believed to be a royal
tomb, remains a mystery (MYANMAR FROM MAE SAI) as to who might be buried there.
With barely four hours of sleep (Jogyakarta The Kickoff), I was were up and
ready, heading to the lobby by 4 a.m. A packet breakfast awaited me - two
sandwiches and some cut fruits, enough to tide us over since we'd miss the
hotel's breakfast service. By 4:45 a.m., we arrived at the entrance of
Borobudur Temple.
Borobudur Temple, located in Central Java,
Indonesia, is a monumental Mahayana Buddhist temple and the world's largest
Buddhist monument. Built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sailendra
Dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its intricate stone
carvings, stunning architectural grandeur, and unique design that symbolizes
the Buddhist cosmology with its three tiers: the world of desire, the world of
forms, and the formless world (Pretoria South Africa Moments).
Joining a group of five friends, one of whom took
charge of all the arrangements (Pretoria Moments & Cape Town Nature Stunner), including our sightseeing, I embarked on a
five-day, four-night adventure to Indonesia. Despite the person’s planning, I
still made it a point to contact the travel agent to ensure I had a single
occupant room (Korea Through My Eyes). With a mid-morning flight, I was up by 5 am and arrived at Kuala
Lumpur International Airport by 7 am. After a flight delay, we finally took
off, landing at Adisutjipto Airport.
Upon arrival (Osaka Sunsets & New Delhi Revelation),
we were greeted by our tour guide, Pak Adi. Lunch at Sekar Kedhaton Restaurant
set the lovely
tone for our trip. The rustic, woody ambiance
complemented the delicious spread of achar (pickled veggies), stir-fried
vegetables, fried chicken, sweet and sour fish, fresh fruits, and buah salak
for dessert. The highlight for me was the sambal, which I couldn’t get enough
of, especially with the keropok (fried fritters). Wow! The spicy power of
Indonesia, which I had heard about from the helpers who come over to clean my
house, was now validated after tasting it.
Taking
a pause from sightseeing in Malacca (PORTUGUESE SETTLEMENT) or Melaka, the historic gem of Malaysia,
we found ourselves diving into local cuisine and switching hotels, all while
giving our legs a much-needed break. Our adventure resumed with renewed energy,
revealing meaningful and captivating sights that made us feel like explorers
from a distant land, in this state.
Christ
Church Christ
Church Malacca is a notable historical landmark in Malacca, Malaysia,
showcasing Dutch colonial architecture. Built between 1741 and 1753, this
red-bricked church commemorates a century of Dutch rule and serves the local
Protestant community. Its Dutch design, original handmade pews, and an early
18th-century brass Bible add to its charm. We spent time inside, offering
prayers and absorbing the serene atmosphere. The church’s tranquility provided
a reflective pause, though our exploration soon continued. Don't miss the
nearby clock tower, a significant historical feature connected to Christ
Church.
In the middle of our Malacca adventure (MALACCA'S FOOD FIESTA), we got this
wild idea to switch hotels. No, nothing was wrong with our current digs, but
the explorer in us just had to see what else was out there. So off we went,
strutting down Jonker Street, popping into hotels and homestays like we were on
some kind of luxurious treasure hunt. Spoiler alert: none of them clicked with
us.
After looping
around Jonker Street and finding nothing that screamed 'home away from home, I
had a lightbulb moment. "Why not Casa Del Rio?" I suggested. The
place had a fancy ring to it, but my wallet groaned at the thought. Still,
curiosity won, and we waltzed into Casa Del Rio, inquiring about the rates.
After a quick huddle, we took the plunge and booked a "Deluxe Lago/River
Side Room." Two single beds? No problem. We threw in an extra bed, and
guess who volunteered for the floor? Yep, that’s me.
