FunderfulWorld

An unexpected break in our regular schedules provided instant fuel for a holiday plan. With the summer heat beating down on most regions in India, an escape to cooler and verdant climes would be a welcome change. We decided to explore the Malnad region of Karnataka. Sakleshpur and Chikmagalur were the chosen destinations. This time we were willing to explore more “remote” locations with “Junior”. It would be his first “homestay” experience in the lap of nature.

Looking for a change of scenery? Cruise along the East Coast Road, pass Pondicherry, and take a break at Pichavaram, near the temple town of Chidambaram. Drift along in a boat along the backwaters, sit back and marvel at the beautiful mangroves of Pichavaram. The tranquil location is a haven for birds. It was our first glimpse of this amazing ecosystem, and we were thrilled! India has the distinction of being home to the world’s largest (Sunderbans) and second largest (Pichavaram) mangrove forests.

The best stopover we’ve had till date? No doubts – Bangkok in 2007, on our return journey to Bangalore after an out-of-the-world trip to Beijing and Shanghai. With several hours to spare, we embarked on a whirlwind tour of the capital of Thailand, equipped with a great map. The sights of the city were spellbinding, the warmth and hospitality of the people was very touching. The beauty of Bangkok in our postcard pictures.

<p class="wp-caption-text"> Cormorant at Karanji Lake, Mysore </p>

No picture, no description, no stories do justice to the stunning beauty of the Taj Mahal. A few years ago, our first visit to the monument of love at Agra left us completely awestruck and spellbound. Here are a few of the seemingly infinite images that we captured through our lens.

New Year’s Eve… Fond memories of a great 2011… As we wait to roll in the new year, 2012, I wish you and your loved ones a joyous year ahead. Good health, good cheer and a Happy New Year!

Where would you take a noisy, nature-loving, super-energetic 2-year old on a Sunday morning in Bangalore? Criteria? It would definitely have to be outdoors. Lots of space to run around. Okay to make “some” noise :). Not more than an hour’s drive away. Greenery would be a welcome bonus. Seeing some animals would be great. Interaction with the animals would be awesome. Did we find such a place? The Martin Farm, Bangalore, has all this and more :).