Betla National Park: Exploring the Wild Beauty

Embarked on a three-day excursion with the family to Betla National Park in Jharkhand, India. As a component of Project Tiger, this park provides opportunities for observing wildlife, enjoying tranquil natural landscapes, and exploring the historical Palamu Fort. Noteworthy aspects of the trip encompass savoring local cuisine, participating in jeep safaris, encountering diverse animals, and visiting picturesque waterfalls in the vicinity. The overall experience underscores Betla's appeal to nature and wildlife enthusiasts due to its abundant flora, wildlife, cultural heritage, and a range of adventurous activities.

A Memorable Day in Ghum and Darjeeling: A Journey Through History and Beauty

The final day in Darjeeling was filled with adventure, visiting Ghum Railway Station, the Old Ghum Monastery, and the Batasia Loop. The day ended with a visit to the bustling hill station of Darjeeling, enjoying delicious food and a stroll through the lively streets. Despite some setbacks, the journey was a whirlwind of experiences, creating lasting memories.

A Journey to Tinchuley and Lamahatta: Exploring the Hidden Gems of North Bengal

The journey through Tinchuley and Lamahatta in North Bengal was an extraordinary experience. Tinchuley, renowned for its tea gardens and stunning views, showcased its involvement with the World Wildlife Federation. Peshok Tea Estate and the Lovers Meet Viewpoint provided breathtaking scenery and historical significance, while Lamahatta offered a serene haven for nature enthusiasts.

Discovering Tranquility: A Day at Getalsud Dam

The author recounts a pleasant trip with his wife to Getalsud Dam, Ranchi, located 35km away from their home. The Dam, established in 1971 on the Subarnarekha River, offers a picturesque view of its expansive water reservoir and surrounding hills. It not only serves as Ranchi's drinking water source, but also for industrial uses and electricity generation. The couple enjoyed the tranquil environment and took photographs against the shimmering water reservoir. The author recommends Getalsud Dam for nature lovers seeking a serene getaway.

A Memorable New Year Bike Trip to Ghatshila

The author recounts a three-day New Year adventure. Beginning in Ranchi, the author and his wife embark on a motorbike road trip to Ghatshila, Jharkhand, visiting several picturesque sites, experiencing local culture, and overcoming challenges such as poor road conditions, wounds, and extreme cold. Highlights include Dharagiri Falls, Phuldugri Hill, Ratmohana River Bridge and Rankini Mandir. The trip concludes with a newfound eagerness for future adventures.

A Memorable Journey: From Prayagraj to Varanasi

Upon arriving in Prayagraj, I discovered that my cousin had fallen ill, but thankfully recovered. A detour to Sitamarhi was necessitated by my mother's ear infection. We visited the Sita Samahit Sthal and then proceeded to Varanasi. Our visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, though crowded, was spiritually fulfilling. I explored Varanasi, visiting historical sites and a fighter jet statue. Lastly, we enjoyed a Ganga River cruise.

Rediscovering Guru Nanak’s Legacy in Baghdad

Guru Nanak, who is the founder of Sikhism, made a significant impact in Baghdad, where he spent time around 1511 CE sharing his teachings with Muslim saints and scholars. He was initially denied entry, but after performing a miracle, his wisdom was admired by the local populace. A shrine built in his memory, and later rediscovered and repaired during the World Wars, served as a testimony to his universal appeal but it was destroyed in the 2003 US invasion of Iraq. The author and Dr. Mehiyar visited the site recently, expressing a desire for the shrine's reconstruction.

A Thrilling Bike Ride to Bagda Valley Viewpoint

The narrator and his wife Tania embarked on a long bike ride on a perfect weather day to Bagda Valley viewpoint, some 50 kilometres from their house. The valley is part of the Chotanagpur plateau, with hills, forests, rare species of birds, butterflies, tribal villages, and farms. Their journey included off-road biking and a steep climb to a hilltop providing breathtaking views. After enjoying the destination's serenity and beauty, they had to leave due to drizzling weather.

A Pilgrimage to the Heart of Devotion: Tarapith Temple

Tarapith Temple, located in West Bengal, is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Tara, a revered figure known for granting wishes. A pilgrimage site, it holds significance as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. A journey to the temple amidst challenging weather revealed its mystical surroundings, including a cremation ground, leaving a profound and cherished memory.

Deoghar Visit: A Spiritual Journey

The writer recounts a recent visit to the spiritual city, Deoghar, in India's Jharkhand state, after a traumatic experience there 20 years prior involving dacoits. Deoghar is renowned for the Baba Baidyanath Temple, a complex of 22 significant temples, most notably one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The writer's trip included participation in numerous rituals at the temple. Though the ritual features some chaos, the overall experience was profoundly spiritual and culturally rich.