Tag Archives: India

Stay Calm in Karnataka, India.

Sub Continent, ,

The state of Karnataka being in the southern part of India attracts visitors due to its location enriched by coastal beauties, the Western Ghats and heaped in antiquity; the ruling dynasties left vivid evidence of their presence through architectural gems along with intricately detailed sculptures of those in power in a bygone era.

Although Karnataka has a varied and tumultuous historical beginning, it has become an easy-going, fun-loving sector of the subcontinent.

Get India into ya! As a first-time visitor to anywhere in the subcontinent a tour is a safe and secure way of ensuring your worries are put to rest. A group of approximately 15 passengers allows space and comfort. A much more desirable way of not having to compete for a window seat and taking the time to know the other members who are also wanting to know each other’s background and culture – as well as thoughts on India. A camaraderie of sorts … make new friends and acquaintances to enrich your travel experience.

The most ardent and robust agencies generally offer great value for money with itineraries that focus hard in matching their client’s expectations, but sometimes there’s an odd surprise thrown in too – at no extra cost. Remember this is India and you can take your “me, myself and I” out of your precious self and go with the flow. Afterall it’s what you can count on if you’re a seasoned traveller and not just a tourist.

Choose hotel locations which allow you to test out the shopping, along with the ease of transportation options which can always be a decider for those who are seeking a holiday without any stress and broaden their horizons.

Thanks to Jyoti for the photo.

Bangaluru the capital of the state of Karnataka has fast become one of the most likeable cities in India and considered one of the best airports amongst many Australians, especially as the flight from Sydney, Australia is direct with Qantas Airlines to the newly refurbished Kempegowda International.

Qantas passengers connecting to IndiGo receive the same checked baggage allowance as their flight from Australia, as well as complimentary food and drinks. T1 and T2 are part of the same airport complex but designed to handle traffic efficiently, ensuring minimal hassle for passengers. The terminals are conveniently connected making transfers relatively straightforward.

There’s a myriad of choice with airlines and/or tour companies for onward travel. The options are endless within this state and holds no barriers when it comes to doing as much as you like or just relaxing with a Masala Chai Tea brewed to perfection whilst people watching the locals of their daily rituals. Or simply pondering your upcoming itinerary of mesmerising activities?

Whilst in Bangaluru, a visit to the Rangoli Gardens is a must-see with life-like figures which give scale and is a truly eye-catching experience. Here we were able to witness the sculpture of Ghandi who subsequently became known as Mahatma (the great soul) who adopted a policy of passive resistance (or satyagraha), to British Rule of the past.

Life in India and particularly to the regional areas, Rangoli Gardens situated at Jakkur is an authentic village, showcasing life as it was, filled with a restored rich culture in all forms and natural splendor. Here you’ll find a heritage of innumerable paintings, visuals and eco-parks crafted artistically by skilled staff. If you’re short on time and wanting to learn about the history, economy and living conditions within India from the past to the present, then this is a definite on your to-do list.

A pit stop and some morning tea at a roadhouse allowed us the chance to admire the first of many statues – later on there’s more on temples and interesting attractions within Karnataka.

Breakfast never looked so good. Traversing over the Western Ghats led us to an amazing viewpoint and overnight stay at the Trivik Spa and Resort.

The air quality here at this level is so fresh and clean it’s invigorating and the inspiration of simply walking for a bout of exercise is encouraging – even for the die hards who’ll find any excuse not to …

And for ‘High Tea’ a Banana Leaf experience of freshly made exquisite snacks with a view from the 23rd highest point in the Western Ghats. Surrounded by its own coffee plantation, the property maintains acres of highly sought-after beans, both locally and internationally. Now this is how Afternoon Tea should be every day …

And at the end of the day, we were rewarded with this superb vantage viewpoint at such a salubrious Spa and Resort.

The Trivik Resort and Spa offers clean, spacious accommodation with staff who deliver service and hospitality to the greatest of accolades. At Chikmagalur this property is an escape to a world above the clouds set at 5,400 feet (1,646 metres) above sea level with 41 elegantly designed suites with a choice of views starting with Mountain, Coffee, Garden and there’s also a Family configuration.

As groups arrive at various designated properties, more often than not you’ll be greeted by a local entourage of musicians who display their traditional song and dance of hand-me-down stories from the region.

Although the highway is undergoing a major transformation, the accommodation provided within the Western Ghats was always quality with spacious rooms and amenities.

Did someone say cooking class? States of India have their own particular dish and/or cuisine made from the surrounding localities. Here at Gamyam Ayurveda and Yoga Resort a fine effort was made using organic seasonal produce, showing us their own unique methods of cooking delectable goodies. Here at the Beach Hut an open-air cooking class was underway and yes right at the beach.

A tasty starter Pomfret Fish Tawa fried in ghee and a delicious coconut curry to accompany.

To begin with, the dough is patted out on a banana leaf as it releases the oils naturally into the mix adding an extra twist in flavour.

Whilst staying at the Gamyam Beach Retreat undoubtedly, it’s a fabulous location. A luxurious beachfront oasis nestled in the tranquil town of Kumta in the Konkan region of Karnataka. At the end of the cooking class a relaxing cool beverage along with the token-made snacks, we had time to unwind and take on all the amenities the resort had to offer such as a delicious buffet dinner of mixed cuisine offering both western and Indian.

Next stop we’ll explore the coastal regions of Udupi and Mangaluru. Stay tuned for the next blog post.

Kerala, India. Part Two.

Sub Continent,
Theyyam is a popular ritual form of dance worship in Kerala and Karnataka which consists of thousand-year-old traditions, rituals and customs. The people of these districts consider Theyyam itself as a channel to a God and thus seek blessings.

There are about 456 types of Theyyam and performed by males, except the Devakoothu theyyam; this is the only Theyyam ritual performed by women and only in the Kulom temple.

In Kerala, Theyyam is performed predominantly in the North Malabar area and a similar custom is followed in the Mangalore region of neighbouring Karnataka known as Bhuta Kola.

Source: Wikipedia Theyyam

On the other hand, when it comes to international visitors dancing in the streets, you can’t mistake Eric from Malaysia ‘letting his hair down’ and moving to the grooves of the local drummers. Way to go!
When you’ve finished all that dancing in the streets, perhaps sharing a plate of Halwa at the Harivihar property in Calicut with Dr Srikuma would be ideal in reviving your energy. Once you start your Ayurveda treatment program here you’ll be charged up and ready to take on just about anything …
You’ll find that Harivihar is a lifestyle wellness house offering its guests the unparalleled experience of staying in a heritage property with a delightful ambience, along with the benefits of Ayurveda, Panchakarma therapies and Yoga practices which are well established here.
Harivihar which literally means abode of the divine is a 170 year old painstakingly restored royal-heritage homestead and Ayurveda resort in Kerala. Situated in Calicut, it’s part of the historic Malabar province. Old-world charm giving a sense of being at peace with oneself whilst engaging in the disciplined practices on offer. See http://www.harivihar.com
The passion shown here at Harivihar is exceptional and one of the reasons it’s a sought-after therapeutic institute. And, of course with well-known doctors whose credentials are second to none in giving holistic advice and the services of their well-trained experienced staff members; especially in ensuring all matters of concern are taken into consideration for treatments through initial consultations.
On a slightly different note, it was interesting to watch Martial Arts being taught to youngsters at the Krishna Beach Resort and a great way in preparing them for the challenges they may face in the real world. Umm … wished I’d had the same opportunity instead of relying on big brothers!

Mangrove Kayaking with Kavvayi Stories is a fun day out and they also provide camping facilitation for those with an adventurous nature. See Rahulnarainn on Instagram.
We had the opportunity to visit the Collective Weaving Centre in Chirakkal which had been opened in May, 1965. It has a fully fledged dye house and only use permitted colours and chemicals which do not contain any harmful amines. 

Magnificent woven pieces were too good not to take advantage of and take home as a souvenir.

Art of cigarette making in a traditional way for those needing a break from the hum drum of life.
Phani my willing model for the day is from Bahrain having a well-earned smoko whilst on our tour. He’s sporting an Aussie Akubra hat, smoking Indian style looking relaxed and ready for the next stage of our Malabar sojourn.
Living in Australia, reptiles and snakes aren’t exactly my favourite creatures, but having a healthy respect for them, I was glad they were held respectfully in their parkland abodes. Here at Snake Park, Parassinikkadavu (which is near to Kannur), is a modern sculpture of Aussie legend Steve Irwin (deceased).

It was an incredible sight to see our very own local Australian zookeeper and conservationist nicknamed as ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ carved by famous local artist Mr. Shyju Kannar being immortalised. The sculpture had been erected as a tribute to Steve Irwin on his 10th Death Anniversary and it’s located in front of the Crocodile enclosure in the Snake Park.
In the amazing highlands of Wayanad, we traversed by road through bushland and the dizzying heights of the magnificent landscape made fantastic photo opportunities.
Travelling through Kerala by rail is a very real consideration for those who love trains. The possibilities are available if you choose to cut out traffic congestion and in return you’re not having to worry about flying to another destination whereby the taxi ride to an airport can sometimes be more than the actual airfare paid. Trains are quite inexpensive and a great way of chatting to others whilst rocking and rolling along.

Rail journeys do experience the same kinds of delays as airlines for sure, but they don’t have the same weight restrictions as such along with their astronomical fees for being a few kilos over.

Easy to disembark the train with your luggage in tow and just grab a taxi or Uber if needing to continue onto your final happy holiday place.

Bekla Beach is a popular spot in the north west corner of Kerala, here with friend Tali checking out the impending storm.

Although the state has rainfall year round, Kerala experiences two monsoon seasons: the main season from June – August and the second from October to November.

Vroom, vroom … our Tuk Tuk driver ready to take myself, Marius and Bartek out for the afternoon in one of Malabar’s cities being Calicut – eating, shopping and anything else we could find of interest.

These people movers are fast, readily available, easily connected from one place to another and a refreshing ride too with a wind-swept hair style thrown in. Well for most of us anyway …

Kerala is the melting pot of Indian destinations whereby you can enjoy a diverse range of activities; from beaut white sandy beaches fronting the Arabian Sea to magnificent highlands with geared-up resorts that offer manageable budgets that cater for all styles of travellers seeking a cultural getaway.

Go on, reward yourself with a humbling experience whereby you’ll return home with a sense of having mastered a few challenges along the way; after all why travel if there’s not a challenge involved?

Kerala your one-stop shop for harvesting and reaping unforgettable experiences.

Next stop is Gorkana in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka.

Kerala, India. Part One.

Sub Continent,

Kerala, with the rightful slogan of ‘God’s Own Country’ can be found in the southern region of India with its balmy, temperate personality exuding a tropical freshness for those needing a change of pace. Here the diversity of the cultures intwined with beaches, backwaters and mountains whereby the slopes are awash with tea and coffee plantations.

Did someone say spices? Come with a half-empty suitcase and you’ll return home with a myriad of delicacies and a new way of making that chai latte.

To visit India ensure you fill out the relevant visa details and at the time of writing this blog post the correct website for an eVisa at a cost of USD80.00 plus credit card fee. The participating countries are listed within the website: www.indianvisaonline.gov.in

Additionally, a health self declaration being the Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form is to be mandatorily filled out online by all international arriving passengers into India.

https://www.newdelhiairport.in/airsuvidha/apho-registration

Welcoming local musicians upon our arrival – always makes you feel special – even if only a domestic flight on this occasion. Most Indian airlines fly into Kannur (CNN) with excellent connections to international flights and return.

Kannur International Airport (CNN) servicing the northern region of Kerala including North Malabar, Kodagu and Mysore districts of Karnataka and the Mahé district of Puducherry. Relatively new and only opened on 9th December, 2018 it’s easy to navigate, spotlessly clean with friendly staff to assist wherever possible.

Though not accessible directly from Australia, it has the ease of an international airport’s arrival and departure areas like no other in India – adding to a stress-free holiday.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has modified the Visa Manual to include Kannur in the list of Integrated Check Posts (ICP) and is now the 29th airport in India to accept eVisas for foreigners who are permitted to attain them. Updated 7th June, 2022.

Read more at:
https://travel.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/visas-and-passports/keralas-kannur-international-airport-included-in-the-icp-for-e-visa-facilitation/92051943

The Incredible landscape of northern Kerala makes it an attractive getaway for those seeking a quieter less intrusive holiday than say, that of a beach location. Plenty of resorts here with natural surroundings of lush forestation and fauna make it an ideal location for nature lovers.
Kingfisher Beer from Kerala has qualities that make it a superb accompaniment to any occasion. According to Google, its name is synonymous with beer in India and stands for excitement, youth and camaraderie. “Cheers, I’ll drink to that!”
India has a long-standing tradition of serving food on banana leaves and is offered with an assortment of vegetables, pickles, appalam and other regional condiments (usually sour, salty or spicy). The banana leaf acts as a disposable plate and it in itself is not consumed – which is far more admirable than throw-away plastics and can be composted as well.

Especially popular in areas such as Kerala, eating food by hand off the banana leaves is considered quite healthy and acceptable. Serving an authentic south Indian spread at festivals and family get-togethers is a common tradition.

Recognise these? This photo is only showing a small portion of delectable spices available and the list is far more comprehensive of what I’ve captured here.

  • Pepper is called the ‘king of spices’ and is the most commercial crop produced in India.
  • Cardamom. The queen of aromatic spices as it is generally known as this spice is mainly used for medicinal purposes and for flavouring. (Yum always add these into my own chai tea and is my favourite beverage each afternoon.)
  • Chilies
  • Ginger
  • Turmeric
  • Coriander
  • Fenugreek
  • Mustard
Some kinds of herbs and other goodies for those wishing to improve their immune system.
Read all about it! Ayurveda’s healthy living is an old traditional way in India and a new way in modern times such as in Australia, which are seeking new methods of trying to change inherent lifestyles addicted to preservatives and other food additives.
(More about Ayurveda in my later blogs …)
Abida Rasheed is one of the finest home-based chefs – not just in Kerala, but she is gaining international recognition for her incredibly easy style in cooking great, wholesome cuisine suitable for any food lover.

My travel mates and I had the absolute pleasure of spending a Saturday afternoon with Abida who lovingly cooked up a magnificent Chicken Bryani. And, let me tell you we devoured it with gusto.

Abida is based in Calicut and she can be found on https://www.facesplacesandplates.com/abida-rasheed/ should you wish to book. Also, check her out on You Tube, Instagram and Facebook in case you can’t make it to Kerala in a hurry.

Happy to see signage wherever possible advocating the upkeep and disposal of throw-away plastics and the like being demonised for the want of a cleaner, greener environment for all concerned and of course future generations to enjoy.

When the environment is being cared for, then you have time to enjoy real forestation in a natural setting such as this one. Relaxing at the stunning rainforest within the Vythiri Resort Lakkidi, this is definitely one to ear mark for your next holiday to destress and go back to an essential winding down of your overworked senses. It’s an exquisite jungle getaway located in Wayanad, a largely mountainous district in northern Kerala and worthwhile checking out, especially when temperatures are predicted to be extremely high in other parts of India.
How about this? You might even have the pleasure of staying at the Vythiri Resort in a Tree House. Just to make all your friends envious and unless they bring the right beverages and food, they won’t be invited in because you can have it all to yourself listening to the birdlife and soft music …

Well, if you can’t manage a lofty Tree House? Don’t panic, we all settled for a fantastic pool party at the Vythiri Resort’s Pool Villa. Kerala enjoys a relaxed lifestyle and friends from all walks of life are easily made here and wherever there is water, upbeat music and a sense of fun then this is the place to be.
No stopping these new-found mates. Party Central!

Not to worry, if you don’t have a tree house or pool in your package deal, then you can relax in a superb room which is charming with a massive floor space, coupled with a jacuzzi and walk-in shower.

At the Vythiri, meals are included and mostly buffet style. No extra charges are incurred.

P.S. The Vythiri review was based on a two night stay and with no vested interest from me. For bookings contact me for quotes.

More of Kerala to follow in the next blog post.

,

Ladakh, North India

Sub Continent, , ,

Flying into Leh the Capital of Ladakh in the northern region of India is so spectacular and breath taking with terrific aerial views of the mountainous landscape. One of the main reasons to fly is that many of the roads are closed in the winter, also saving you a couple of days driving, therefore more time to enjoy in the surrounds of Ladakh.

There’s a plethora of airlines in India which fly to Leh from Delhi and it’s approximately 90 minutes flying time. When the weather is not ideal, you can expect delays and disruptions, ensure you go prepared and check your onward schedules/connections as they may be affected.

Ideally, include a side trip with the same carrier as your international ticket – this usually includes the same luggage allowance as a through fare and any delays should be re-accommodated by the ticketing airline.

Coming from Sydney, Air India with a stopover/transit in Delhi was ideal as this airline has the accessibility to fly into India’s International Terminals, even when travelling domestically within India – making a transfer onto other destinations seamless with a generous weight limit in economy class.

On the up side, driving allows you to acclimatise more easily to the higher altitudes of which you will encounter along the way.

After an early breakfast, we headed towards the Nubra Valley. The 140 kilometre trip takes  approximately 4 to 5 hours in a small tourist bus. Via Khardungla (18,380 feet), it’s best known as the Highest Motorable road in the World – perhaps not for the faint-hearted tourist, but it’s an experience you won’t regret… or forget.

This is the way to one of the most exciting and adventurous  destinations to visit in India.

We traversed the winding passage ways and it was comforting to come across an Oxygen Cafe-cum-Medical Centre which was opened by the Ladakh Rescue Centre in recent times.  It’s definitely a recommended stop en-route to recharge your batteries, toilet and cafe break. A great opportunity where you can exchange stories with other excited travellers.

The Nubra Valley which is not too far by distance from the Rescue Centre, is still some time away before our arrival there considering it’s an unsealed roadway. It’s obvious the roads are somewhat ‘one way’ in most parts and difficult to negotiate when passing oncoming vehicles – or worse – taking over!

No explanation needed … thanks Giovanni for keeping us on top of things!

Introducing you to the Nubra Valley.  A jaw-dropping spectacle of geographical magnificence.

Nubra is a tri-armed valley located to the north east of Ladakh Valley and Diskit is the capital which is about 150 kilometres north from Leh town. It’s a high-altitude cold desert with rare precipitation and scant vegetation. Needless to say, it’s quite a display of parched fascination.

If you’ve not seen a real live yak before, then understandably you might be just as frantic as us to secure a photo of this mammoth beast with the shag-pile coat.

Happy to have stayed at The Grand Dragon Ladakh, which is the only five-star property in this area boasting fabulous views of the mountains from almost every room.  A relaxed outdoor setting finished off each day of sightseeing with a few well-earned bevvies in hand.

Local markets are filled with fresh goodies with many seasonal vegetables available. All organic here.

Donkeys in the main tourist areas are immune to impatient drivers. After all, it’s been a hard day scouting for a bite to eat when there’s no one else to give you a hand out.

The way to the temples you ask? There’s no shortage of monasteries and temples in Ladakh, in fact I was starting to wonder if I was mistakenly in Tibet.

Thikse Gompa or Thikse Monastery is a gompa affiliated with the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It’s located on top of a hill in Thiksey approximately 19 kilometres east of Leh.

The impressive complex has 12 stories and is built at an altitude of 3,600 metres (11,800 ft). A spiritual retreat with amazing natural surrounds and traditional Buddhist architecture.

Temples and monasteries are found in the most remote places like this one; perched up on a hill and many others which can be found are built on the side of a mountain.

Monks at the temples also take pleasure in spinning the prayer wheels.

A very international group we were and it’s always a treat when everyone’s a good sport.

Some Benefits of Travelling in a Tour Group
  • Someone to show you the way and given an in-depth commentary
  • Instant friends (well hopefully)
  • Safety if anything should go wrong
  • Combine a trip with friends/family and share costs
  • Reassurance for your family when away
  • Group discounts
  • See things you wouldn’t be able to usually

Looking through the window at the old Summer Palace, a 12 foot statue of Buddha oversees the valley.

At the end of the day, it was rewarding to have had the opportunity to visit one of the most interesting and humble destinations I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing – not just in India but on an international scale.  And yes, I’d return to Ladakh in a heartbeat!

Some good advice!

  • Information was correct at time of posting this blog and our visit took place at the end of September and early October, 2018. However, the weather can change overnight as seen in this photo of the Pass on our return.

Season (Months) Best Time and Way to Visit Leh (Ladakh) 1st April to Mid-May
  • Mid May to July. During this time, only the Srinagar-Leh highway opens up, this is just not the right occasion to visit
  • August to Mid-September
  • Mid-September to Mid-October
  • Mid October to Mid-November
  • Mid-November to March

Mumbai, India

Sub Continent, ,

Republic Day in India is the same date as Australia Day and I was a little astounded so many Indians actually knew this and wished me a happy day for my own country’s festivities.

Mumbai formerly known as Bombay is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra. It’s the most populous city in India with an estimated city population of 22 million – the whole population of Australia could almost fit into it …

A group of worshippers graciously allowed me a photo of their routine. Republic Day is a festivity of religion, food and happiness for a nation which is so diverse in its own culture and independence.

So here I am back in Mumbai and as you can see the pedestrian is saying his daily prayers for religious purposes, only I’m about to say a prayer to cross the road safely.

Mumbai’s traffic is still the same as my last visit in 2005.  New infrastructure is being implemented slowly; mostly overhead due to the fact the city was built on reclaimed land and is difficult to negotiate. With a view to improve transportation and communication, the Government of Maharashtra and the Railway Ministry – along with financial assistance from the World Bank – they took on the Mumbai Urban Transport Project.

Victoria Terminus is an area with a thriving market which attracts locals and international visitors by the bus and train load.

The Terminus is walking distance to CMTS which offers only a handful of local areas a train service.

Traditional Indian cuisine is offered to the masses at a fraction of restaurant prices and perhaps better quality and flavour. To date,  I’ve yet to be ill from street food – incredibly I’ve had ‘Delhi Belly’ from eating in top-class establishments.

One piece of advice I’d been given years ago and before travelling to India, was to start eating yoghurt and food produced by bacterial fermentation of milk prior to arriving. The bacteria used to make yogurt known as yogurt cultures, allows the fermentation of lactose by these bacteria which produces lactic acid, it then acts on milk protein to give its texture and characteristic tart flavour. It assists in settling a tummy which may not be used to spicy hot foods.

Sometimes it’s a difficult choice when there’s so much variety on hand and it’s a sensory overload of wafting exotic aromas, bright colours and sounds of excitement abound.

Haircut anyone? Handy to know you can head off to the market and come go home looking cleaned up, refreshed and ready to watch the cricket.

Take your pick – chicken, beef or whatever? Vegetarians move on please.

Nothing like a free food waste collector to call by. A win/win for everyone. Cows are considered sacred by Hindus in India and the favourite animal of Lord Krishna. They serve as a symbol of wealth, strength and abundance. But, people who want to protect these creatures have to deal with those who think cows are a nuisance.

Do I want a smooch? You better watch out you’re not the next one on the menu.

Time to go back to the hotel after a day’s outing which also included Linking Road and Kurla. Certainly don’t think I’ll take the train again; even with a dedicated carriage for ‘Ladies’ I’d already been dumped onto the platform from the avalanche of passengers trying to alight the train. Yeah, yeah I know, stupid tourists always in the way.

At Kurla Station in east Mumbai, the market was a myriad of stall holders and there’s no shortage of food and goods on sale. Obviously, plenty of tuk tuks to take me home – rates vary and always pays to be a decent kind of negotiator in India.

While waiting for my ride, thought it’d be great to have a chat with a Police Officer about the area, only to receive more kick-ass comments about India thrashing Australia in the cricket at home just recently.

Better do some work whilst in Mumbai and who better to cross paths with but my mate Firoz of Perth Aussie Tours in Western Australia.

Direct flights from Australia are from Sydney and Melbourne to Delhi with Air India (AI). Connections are generally seamless as it’s only Air India and Jet Airways which have flights arriving/deparing into the international terminals of Delhi (main hub of AI) and Mumbai. Both airlines have a myriad of domestic flights throughout the countrry. Air India also allow a generous 30 kg on an international ticket issued with connecting domestic flights.

Stay tuned for some more blog posts of Incredible India!