Coorg - Scotland of India

Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is one of the most popular hill station in the state of Karnataka. Known for its lush greenery and breathtaking scenery, Coorg is a popular destination all through the year because of its spectacular weather. 

A two and a half drive from Mysore, our first visit before checking in at the hotel was the Golden Temple, Namdroling Monastery. Located around 35 kms from Madikeri, the temple is known for its painting depicting Gods, demons, cultures and some phases of Buddha's life. Visitors are not allowed during the prayer hours. The main sight of the temple are the three 40 ft high statues of lord Buddha namely Padmasambhava, Buddha at the centre and Amitayus.

We then proceeded to Nisargadhama. It is a beautiful island formed by the Kaveri river and is a popular tourist attraction. The entry to the place is walking through a hanging bridge. It also houses a deer's park, children's park. An ideal place for the children to play along the riverside. One can also opt for boat ride in the island.

The next halt was at Dubare, popular for its elephant training camp, visitors can witness the activities involved with the elephants. Dubare is popular for rafting, fishing and trekking. One can also opt for an elephant safari.

We then checked in to our homestay. We were put up at Chingaara Estate Guest House. The family owned coffee estate with its own plantations of spices amongst the lush green forest is truly a welcome for those who are looking for a break. The property owned waterfall (10-min walk from the resort) is an eye-catching view streaming down the old hills admist the lush green forest. Chingaara is a home away from home and ideal for tourists looking out for trekking, bird watching and relaxing.

Day 2 started with a visit to Omkareshwar Jyotirling Temple situated in the town of Madikeri. As the name suggests, depicted to Lord Shiva, this place attracts many tourists. The architecture of the temple is unique. It is a mixture of Gothic and Islamic style.  In front of the emple is a water tank, which has a mandapam in the middle connected by a causeway.

The next stop was Madikeri Fort. Today, the fort has been converted to a government official complex. Built in the 17th century using mud by Muddu Raja, the fort was rebuilt by Tipu Sultan in granite. The fort offers some panoramic view of the entire city. Two life-sized elephants are seen at the entrance.

We then visted the Raja's tomb, Raja's seat and the Madikeri fort.  Talking about the tom, there are three tombs built for the royal dynasty. The biggest tomb is of the the Kodava King Doddaveerarajendra and his wife Mahadeviamma. This place is unique as Lord Shiva is placed and worshipped inside the tomb as the King was a Hindu.

Raja's seat was the recreational place for the kings. Built of bricks and mortar, on a high level ground with wonderful surroundings, the Kings of Kodagu spent their times with their Queens in this lovely ambience. Today, this place attracts many tourists for its lovely scenic beauty and the spectacular view of the green cladded mountains beyond the valley. Some stay back to enjoy the glorius sunset.

Day 2 was incomplete without a visit to the Talacauvery. It is the place where River Kaveri originates. Located on the Brahmagiri hill, near Bhagamandala. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Kaveriama. The Kodavas have erected a tank which is now believed to be the origin of River Kaveri. Besides the temple is a series of 365 steps which leads to the peak to witness the mountain ranges. 

We reached our homestay by 4 in the evening after which we relaxed in midst of the serene atmosphere. The environment was just apt. The home cooked Kodagu food (Akki Roti, Puttu and Kumm Curry) was mouth watering. The food wasted is feeded to the bull named Ganesh. The property has dogs, donkeys, bulls and cows. The staff were good with great hospitality. 

To sum up, Coorg is for nature lovers and also a honeymoon's paradise. An ideal destination with numbe rof adventure sports, it is definitely Scotland of India, as named by the Britishers.

Dive & Snorkel The Great Barrier Reef

Ever wondered how is it to snorkel/scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef? Believe me, it is one of the most wonderful experience! To dive in one of the Seven Wonders of the World; and the most beautiful natural wonder is something one should not miss when in Australia.  Your trip to Australia is incomplete without a trip to the Great Barrier Reef.

I visited Cairns on my solo trip to Australia with one of my friends. We booked our budget reef package with the Compass Cruise for the most adventurous day in Cairns.  And were put up in the Jack Backpackers. Our hostel was about a five minute walk from the Reef Fleet Terminal, where the Marlin Jetty is based out of. Many of the tour operators use Marlin Jetty as their base for pick up and drop off for their tourists. This place is too good for a stroll too!

Both of us are non-swimmers and we were all butterflies until the time we were in water. Dressed in stinger suit, to stay safe from the stingers, we were now ready to step in water for the first time. Since we were non-swimmers, the crew members were very kind to take us throughout the stroll in water to witness the mesmerizing corals and fishes. While my friend opted for snorkelling, I tried my hands at diving (introductory dive) too!! The crew members were very knowledgeable and introduces to the equipments to be used in water. This was one experience I would never like to forget, especially when I have never done this before!  One needs to know at least the basic swimming and a fairly good amount of fitness coz swimming can make one tired. The sea life is incredible to look at. There are plenty of creatures and one may see different species according to the seasons. The reef is a home to variety of fishes and other sea creatures. I was lucky to spot the clownfish, butterflyfish, angelfish and the little nemo. There were many to add to the list! So, there is actually no best season as such. You can snorkel/dive throughout the year. Exploring what is under the water is such a magical experience. We just didn’t want to get out of the water.

And there is boom netting added to the adventurous trip. A large net is attached to the rear of the boat. Divers are dragged through the waters at a fast pace. This activity definitely adds to the fun element.

 I would recommend everyone at least to try snorkelling even if you are a non-swimmer.  And for those who do not enjoy both, you can book a glass bottom boat tour to see the reef without getting wet.

So, remove the fear, and enjoy what you have never done before !! Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara!!

My next aim – is to get certified for scuba !!

My unforgettable rendezvous in Oceania!

Travelling solo, especially as a woman can be unnerving! However I changed my views after this unforgettable trip to the Oceania - Australia in Dec'16. I was discouraged by many to do this trip especially when I had a family back home, But what matters is - if your family supports, nothing else matters!

I did a lot of research on the place – the do's & the dont's, the places of visit, and most importantly – a budget trip. I travelled during the Christmas & the New Year. So, it became all the more important to plan well in advance to cut cost at least on the accommodation. I was sure, once this is done, a major part is done. I chalked down four places of visit – Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Cairns for a 3 week trip including the travel time.

Thanks to my friends in Sydney – I could cut down the accommodation cost. As for the other places, I was put up in hostels. Hostels are of great value and a great way to meet the other fellow travelers/backpackers. I preferred to stay in female dorm just to feel secure. All hostels provide free Wi-Fi facility. This reminds me that I actually got a local sim card for $25 with unlimited local and ISD calls & message plans. In a way, you are always in touch with folks. Also the hostels I was put up had good kitchenette facilities.

Food is not at all cheap in Australia. Even the most decent restaurants would cost at least 15 -20 AUD. Most of my money was spent in food. The best pick would be fast food costing anywhere between 10 -15 AUD. And if none of the restaurants work for you, you could go and grab food for one from the three dominating supermarkets – Woolworths, Coles and Aldi located almost everywhere in the city! I could guarantee, you wouldn’t starve. Tap water is very clean and safe to drink. So carry your bottle with you. This is the only one which is available for FREE!

Travelling in Australia is easy. The mode of transport is good. I could very well say that the whole of Australia is well-connected by road, rail and air. What I really cannot forget is the sparkling blue sky, the colour changing sea and the shimmering rays of the sun sinking into the horizon. What I really cannot forget the place is “The People”. They were so friendly, caring and loving. I was not left out even for a while.

And at the end of the day, I could only say – I am more self-confident, independent and more open. In the end, we only REGRET the chances we didn't TAKE! Live the moment