Travelogue: A Spiritual Sojourn to Varanasi and Sarnath

My recent journey to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, was nothing short of transformative. This ancient city, nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges, is a confluence of faith, culture, and history. From witnessing the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti to visiting the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, every moment in Varanasi felt like stepping into a different era.

Arrival in Varanasi

We traveled to Varanasi by plane, and as we descended, the sight of the winding Ganges and the historic ghats below filled me with anticipation. Stepping off at the airport, I was immediately enveloped in an aura of devotion and bustling energy. The city's labyrinthine alleys, flanked by temples and vibrant markets, exuded an old-world charm. My first stop was the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple, recently rejuvenated as part of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project, stood resplendent, welcoming thousands of devotees. The chants of "Har Har Mahadev" resonated in the air as I joined the queue for darshan.

While praying in one of the temples near Kashi Vishwanath, I had a profound experience. As the priest was offering flowers to the deity, a garland unexpectedly slipped from his hands and landed around my neck. A shiver ran down my spine—it felt like a divine blessing, a sign that I was truly welcomed by the divine presence.

A Divine Experience: Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and Morning Aarti

While the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat was mesmerizing, my most spiritual moment came during the morning Aarti. At dawn, I returned to the ghats, where the river appeared calm, reflecting the soft hues of the rising sun. The morning Aarti was more serene—priests in simple attire, performing the rituals with a quiet intensity. The atmosphere was deeply meditative, and as I watched the lamps flicker in the gentle breeze, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Unlike the grandeur of the evening ceremony, the morning Aarti carried a subtle, personal connection with the divine.

The Sad Plight of Manikarnika Ghat

Despite the divine aura of Varanasi, one place left a deep impression on me—Manikarnika Ghat, the city's main cremation site. While it is considered a sacred passage to liberation, the sight was sobering. The endless funeral pyres, the ash-covered surroundings, and the solemn chants of last rites painted a stark picture of life’s impermanence. Amidst the holiness, the ghat bore witness to the harsh realities of those who live on its fringes—the workers tending to the pyres, the destitute seeking solace in the embers, and the weary expressions of families bidding final farewells. It was a poignant reminder of the cycle of life and death that defines Varanasi.

Excursion to Sarnath

The next day, I traveled a short distance to Sarnath, a serene contrast to Varanasi’s bustling streets. This sacred site is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa, an imposing structure, stood as a testament to Sarnath’s historical and spiritual significance. The Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, with its intricate murals depicting Buddha’s life, added to the tranquility of the place. I also visited the Archaeological Museum, which housed a rich collection of Buddhist relics and sculptures, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, India's national emblem.

Farewell to the Holy City

Before departing, I took a boat ride along the Ganges at sunrise. The city bathed in golden hues, with devotees performing their morning rituals along the ghats, was a sight to behold. The experience of Varanasi and Sarnath left an indelible mark on my soul—a journey not just through places, but through history, faith, and spirituality.

Varanasi, with its timeless charm and divine aura, is more than just a destination; it is an experience that lingers long after one leaves its sacred shores.

Journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon: A Travelogue on Bhutan

 

    Journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon: A Travelogue on Bhutan

Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a realm where tradition meets tranquility. Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, this small kingdom boasts majestic landscapes, vibrant culture, and a deep-rooted spiritual heritage. My journey to Bhutan was nothing short of a mesmerizing experience, filled with breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and enriching encounters.

Crossing the India-Bhutan Border: A Journey by Road

My adventure began with a road trip to Bhutan, crossing the India-Bhutan border at Phuentsholing, the gateway to this mystical kingdom. As our Traveller approached the border, the contrast between the bustling Indian town of Jaigaon and the serene Bhutanese town of Phuentsholing was striking. The Bhutan Gate, an intricately designed archway adorned with traditional motifs, marked the entrance to a land where time seems to stand still.
The border crossing was seamless, thanks to the friendly officials and well-organized procedures. Stepping into Bhutan, the atmosphere instantly changed. The roads were clean, the air was crisp, and the architecture reflected the country’s unique cultural identity. The journey from Phuentsholing to Thimphu offered breathtaking views of verdant valleys, terraced fields, and winding mountain roads, each turn revealing a postcard-perfect landscape. My heart pounded as I am visiting a new country with people from all parts of India as ours was a group tour.

View of India from Bhutan

Exploring Thimphu: The Heartbeat of Bhutan

Our tour guide, Kelle Wangchuk, a cheerful and humorous person, made our journey even more enjoyable. With his witty jokes and fascinating stories about Bhutanese history and culture, he kept us engaged throughout our trip. His deep knowledge of the country, combined with his lighthearted approach, made every stop an exciting discovery.
Thimphu, the capital city, is where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern development. The cityscape is dotted with traditional structures, no skyscrapers or traffic lights in sight. At the majestic Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government, we witnessed the grandeur of traditional architecture, with golden spires gleaming under the sun.
A visit to Buddha Dordenma, a towering bronze statue overlooking Thimphu Valley, was a spiritual experience. The panoramic view from this vantage point was breathtaking, with the valley stretching beneath a canopy of clouds. In the evening, a stroll through the vibrant Thimphu Market offered a glimpse into the daily lives of locals, showcasing colorful handicrafts, traditional garments, and aromatic Bhutanese spices.

Paro Taktsang: The Tiger’s Nest Monastery

The highlight of our Bhutanese adventure was the trek to Paro Taktsang, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Perched on a cliff at 3,120 meters above sea level, this sacred site is shrouded in legend and spirituality. The hike was challenging yet rewarding, with pine-scented trails, fluttering prayer flags, and the distant murmur of waterfalls guiding the way.
With Kelle’s amusing commentary and constant encouragement, the trek felt less exhausting and more exhilarating. Reaching the monastery felt like stepping into a mystical realm. The tranquility and the view of the Paro Valley from this height were indescribable. The serenity within the ancient monastery, coupled with the sound of monks chanting, created a surreal, almost ethereal atmosphere.

A Cultural Odyssey: Festivals and Food

I was fortunate to attend a Bhutanese cultural show, a mesmerizing display of the country’s rich heritage through dance, music, and vibrant costumes. The performers moved gracefully to the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments, their expressions narrating ancient folklore with elegance and poise. The colorful attire and the harmonious melodies created an enchanting atmosphere, leaving the audience spellbound.

No journey is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Bhutanese food, rich in flavors and spices, is a gastronomic delight. We indulged in Ema Datshi (chili cheese stew) and Momos (dumplings),  each dish reflecting Bhutan’s unique culinary heritage. Kelle, always full of energy, shared funny anecdotes about Bhutanese dining customs, making our meals even more enjoyable.

Visit to the Takin Preserve Center

One of the most fascinating stops in Thimphu was the Takin Preserve Center, home to Bhutan’s national animal—the Takin. This unique creature, resembling a cross between a cow and a goat, is deeply rooted in Bhutanese mythology. Kelle entertained us with the legend of how the great Buddhist saint, Lama Drukpa Kunley, is said to have created the Takin by joining the head of a goat with the body of a cow.

Walking through the lush enclosure, we observed these rare animals in their natural habitat. Their calm demeanor and distinctive appearance made them a delight to watch. The center also serves as a conservation effort to protect these endangered creatures, and it was heartening to see Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its wildlife.

Bidding Farewell: A Heartfelt Goodbye

As our journey came to an end, I realized Bhutan is not just a destination; it’s an experience of a lifetime. It is a place where happiness is a way of life, guided by the philosophy of Gross National Happiness. The simplicity, spirituality, and scenic beauty of this kingdom left an indelible mark on my soul.

I boarded my car back to the Indian border, my heart heavy with nostalgia and my mind brimming with memories of a land where time seems to stand still. Bhutan’s charm lies in its harmony with nature and its unwavering devotion to tradition. It is truly the Land of the Thunder Dragon, echoing peace and enchantment in every corner.

A special mention to our wonderful guide, Kelle Wangchuk, whose humor and kindness made this trip even more memorable. His jokes, wisdom, and infectious laughter ensured that Bhutan wasn’t just a place we visited—it became a place we felt at home.

This journey to Bhutan was not merely a travel experience; it was a soulful voyage, a discovery of peace and purpose.

The Midnight# Roar Mystery#

 The Midnight Roar Mystery

The vacations had begun, and I was brimming with excitement. My grandparents and uncle were visiting us, which meant the house was livelier than usual. However, my joy was slightly dampened by the fact that my brother was still at his boarding school and wouldn’t join us for another two weeks.

The day they arrived was filled with hustle and bustle as everyone settled in. Our house was small, and accommodating six people was a tight squeeze. My uncle, father, and grandfather shared the upstairs room, while my mother and grandmother slept downstairs. I was left to sleep on the small sofa in the hall.

The vacation was shaping up to be uneventful until a peculiar, funny yet terrifying incident occurred. It was a rainy night, and the clock struck 3:00 AM. The sound of raindrops tapping on the windows was the only noise, and everyone was fast asleep. Suddenly, a deafening roar shattered the silence, jolting my mother awake.

“W…what…was…that?” she stammered, her voice trembling.

The sound echoed again, louder this time, waking my grandmother. “Must be thunder,” she suggested, though her expression betrayed her nervousness.

“No… it’s not thunder,” my mother whispered shakily. “It’s coming from upstairs!”

I awoke to their whispered conversation, startled by their anxious tones. “What?! Is there a tiger upstairs?” I exclaimed.

“Shhh…” My mother grabbed a cricket bat lying nearby. “Let’s check it out quietly,” she said, her voice a mix of fear and determination.

All three of us tiptoed up the stairs, hearts pounding. As we reached the top, the roaring noise grew louder, reverberating through the walls. “It’s coming from their room,” I whispered nervously.

Slowly, I pushed the door open, wondering how my father, uncle, and grandfather could possibly sleep through the ruckus. The door creaked, and at that moment, the monstrous roar erupted again, shaking the very air around us.

We braced ourselves for the worst. And then… we discovered the source of the terrifying noise.

There, sprawled comfortably in their beds, were my grandfather, uncle, and father — snoring at the top of their lungs, each competing for the loudest roar!

We stared at each other in disbelief before bursting into uncontrollable laughter. My grandmother wiped the sweat off her brow. “At least it wasn’t a Bengal tiger!” she said, relieved.

“And,” my mother added, smiling at me, “now you have a hilarious story to tell your brother when he gets back!”

That night turned an otherwise boring vacation into an unforgettable adventure.

My dream invention

 My Dream Invention

Whoosh! I was flying in a car over the city. It was midnight and the Moon and the stars shone brilliantly and there was a light breeze in the air. I was enjoying the panoramic view of the city below. I could easily see the humongous skyscrapers touching the clouds. I even spotted people as tiny as dolls strolling the brightly lit streets. Ah, it was a wonderful moment. 

Instantaneously, I jerked awake. "It was a dream!” I gasped. I sat up sweating due to the heat. I decided to go back to sleep when a thought struck my mind. 

"A flying car!” I wondered. Can a dream become a reality? A flying car could just be superb. I thought that a fling car could be ten times better than an aeroplane. We could enjoy the view and the light breeze if we traveled in such a car. Oh, there was a lot of benefits. But could it be possible? Maybe, _I_ could invent the very first flying automobile! If I did humanity would be forever thankful to me. If I could invent such a car, then I needn’t bother about the traffic. Everybody gets late because of this traffic. I absolutely loathe them. But if I had a flying car, I don’t need to worry about being late for anything! I would be able to fly over all the commotion, smiling at the faces of the unfortunate and rather furious motorists. It was just like Aladdin on his magic carpet flying over the deserts of Arabia. I got carried away by my innovative but rather impossible-to-achieve ideas. I thought again (I did a lot of thinking), could I do it? Could I become the chosen one, the one destined to build the first ever flying car? I imagined that I had fulfilled my dream. People were giving me words of praise and showed their gratitude. It would be cheaper and more comfortable. I dreamt that I recorded the Nobel prize. Everyone was congratulating me…the greatest invention of all time…Trrringg… my alarm brought me back to reality… and traffic. I got to from my bed. I was more determined than ever to be the first person to design the flying car. Perhaps, if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to soar through the air with the filling car!!

#My Dream

                                 My Dream 

 

 

I wish to fly high like birds

Slither away on the blue carpet.

I can't express it in words

I will sit in my rocket,

Off to explore space.

Wish to walk an extra mile for mankind

Can I expect snowflakes?

Who can understand my mind?

Outer space is as wild as daffodils I guess

Or is it as cool as cucumber?

Who will pacify my inquisitive mind?

Many questions hovering around me,

I wish to ponder over and find answers to all questions that haunt me

I long for my space adventure which will come true at last,

I will surely blast........

                                                                                                                                              Samarth Nair

My expedition to Heaven on Earth #travelogue

 My  expedition to Heaven on Earth

Kashmir is famously known as the 'Heaven on Earth,' but very few lucky people have been able to experience its unparalleled beauty. It is said that one cannot call themselves a traveller if they haven't been to this stunning destination. My childhood was filled with visits to several incredible locations, and Kashmir was one of them. Come with me on a journey to this Land of Wonders.

I was only four years old when I visited Kashmir, but a few recollections of the trip still linger in my memory.

On the first day, we were taken to the renowned Dal Lake, the heart of Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir. Its pure beauty left us all, including me, awe-struck. The clean water reflected the snow-capped mountains standing above the scenery of the beautiful landscape. Our boat ride across the lake took us to a grand houseboat, situated in the middle of this Kashmir gem. We were treated to a stunning view of the Dal Lake at sunset in our houseboat, a scene so beautiful it felt like out of a canvas—perfect for capturing unforgettable photos. The following day, we journeyed to Gulmarg, a destination well known for its winter sports and activities.

The two-day duration we spent there was preceded by a blanket of snow and frigid temperatures on our arrival. Nevertheless, hospitality at the hotel quickly converted cold to warmth since we were given the world-renowned Kashmiri Kahwa—a perfumed, spiced tea that was yummy to our sense organs and braced us up. We climbed snow-topped mountains, with panoramic sights of the town below. We spent our days in exciting experiences of skiing and snowboarding. On the fourth day, we took a drive to Pahalgam, a hidden paradise for nature lovers. Our tour included a trek to Mini Switzerland, a summit with panoramic sights of snow-topped peaks.

The panoramic sights were nothing short of magical. Day two at Pahalgam, we visited two valleys whose names now escape me. Although the view was pretty, it paled in comparison to the vistas from Mini Switzerland. In our exploration, we also had Kashmiri Pulao, a rice dish with scents of spices and nuts that added a nice culinary flavor to our journey. Our last day in Kashmir was spent traveling to Srinagar, where we traveled to fertile orchards and the famous Mughal gardens of Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. The rich canopies, flower-filled with vibrant colors, and well-structured pathways were a real eye-opener as compared to what we were accustomed to, leaving us in awe of nature's beauty. Following six indelible days in Kashmir, we went to Jammu. Although less well known as a tourist destination, no trip to Kashmir is ever complete without visiting Jammu. We went to the holy Amarnath Caves and Vaishno Devi Temple, two mythic spiritual destinations, during our two-day stay. In the nights, we indulged in the unique flavor of butter tea paired with M&Ms—a balance of tradition and modernity at its best. Leaving Jammu and Kashmir after eight days was a melancholic one. I could not help but feel that there was still so much more to discover. However, I was reassured by the fact that we had extracted the maximum out of each and every moment, absorbing the panorama and the culture of this lovely nation.

Kashmir is a place that cannot be described. No picture or words can ever do it justice, and that's why we chose to visit it ourselves. I can confidently state that Kashmir is probably one of the most interesting places in India, a place that leaves an unforgettable imprint on the heart of every traveler.

#Midnight #Ghost

 My Second Book The Midnight Ghost in the haunted Castle

Dear all 

Happy to inform you that my second book is published by the grace of God.I take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you who has read my first book and has given me your valuable suggestions which meant a lot to me .Expecting the same for my second book also as I firmly believe no writer's can emerge without the support of readers.Your reviews suggestions criticisms all are welcome......

Midnight Ghost

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