After a rejuvenating holiday at Sakleshpur, we spent the next couple of days at another magical GREEN location – The Hidden Valley, Chikmagalur.
This getaway was chosen based on some internet research and very prompt responses to our email enquiries.
A scenic drive past the very well-known Serai Resortand endless expanses of coffee estates led us to the Hidden Valley Resort.
Long walks in the coffee plantation, rays of sunshine through the tall trees, a magpie robin chirping all day, delicious food in the dining room overlooking the little lake, absolute calm, serenity, peace.
Malnad Magic – I: The Verdant Expanses of Sakleshpur
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.
The Tranquil Karanji Lake (Mysore): Away from the Madding Crowd
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Cormorant at Karanji Lake, Mysore
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Magnificent Flying Machines at HAL Aerospace Museum
A Noisy Sunday at the Martin Farm
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 :).
Coffee Blooms in Yercaud
Odisha(Orissa), an artist’s haven
Our long-planned trip to Odisha or Orissa, finally materialized in January 2011. The weather was perfect, the destination was charming.
During the taxi ride from Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhubaneshwar, to our hotel, we remained rivetted to the windows. In this city, arts and crafts emporia abound, beautiful sculptures adorn lawns and small gardens, vibrant paintings cover walls, bridges, flyovers. A veritable artist’s haven.
The next day, we were ready to set out and explore the state.
Uttarayan (Makar Sankranti) in Gujarat
The colourful kite festival, delicious jalebis & ‘undhiyu’, vibrant bandhani, bustling markets, the grandeur of Akshardham… – this year, we celebrated Makar Sankranti in Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar.
Uttarayan (Makar Sankranti) in Gujarat is a delightful experience! The markets are abuzz with activity, flooded with kites of various hues and sizes. Families gather on terraces – some ready for intense competition, others enjoying a leisurely experience. The winds are perfect, the music is loud, the skies are dotted with high-flying kites, the mood is festive: a vibrant celebration, indeed.