Where the foot rests, the soul awakens. Journeys are not escapes; they are awakenings. Every road is a mirror, every landscape a teacher. This realm explores travel as introspection — the geography outside and the geography within. Movement becomes meditation, and wandering becomes revelation.
Udaipur's Aravalli hills, often overlooked, are home to the Mewar Biodiversity Park, a 2016 initiative aimed at preserving its delicate ecosystems. The park, though beautiful, shows signs of neglect. A majestic thousand-year-old tree stands as a reminder of the region's history, offering a serene backdrop for visitors amidst their adventures.
In Udaipur, I began my morning at 7:30, heading to Krishna Bike Rentals, where I rented a Royal Enfield Hunter. After a quick test ride and breakfast of hot aloo parathas, my wife and I prepared for an adventure into the Aravalli hills, eager for nature's surprises.
The trip from Ranchi to Udaipur started with a feeling of anticipation. At Delhi’s busy airport, we stopped to enjoy a good meal before catching my connecting flight. Arriving in Udaipur felt like entering a peaceful place after the hustle—the airport was calm and almost tranquil. After a brief drive, we checked into our hotel and began planning the next day’s activities. The plan was straightforward but exciting: a motorbike tour through Udaipur’s charm, exploring its winding streets and hidden spots waiting to be uncovered.
Our journey to Udaipur began with a heartfelt choice rather than a mere ticket. I aimed to surprise my wife with a getaway, using three envelopes to reveal our destination. Udaipur, with its lakes and palaces, became the chosen retreat, setting the stage for our long-awaited adventure together.
A casual conversation about railway experiences sparked a nostalgic memory for me from 1992. During my honeymoon, an unexpected delay prompted a choice between heading home or staying at the station. Trusting an Assistant Station Master’s updates led us to board the North East Express early, granting us a unique, quiet journey. This experience taught me about faith beyond appearances and the magic in unplanned moments of life.
Sibaram Das reflects on his visit to Lalish, the holiest site of the Yazidis in Iraq, exploring the interconnectedness of history, migration, and spirituality. He draws parallels between Yazidism and Hinduism, observing shared rituals and beliefs, such as reverence for sacred elements and the cyclical nature of time. His journey raises questions about the origins of faith and the universality of human experiences, leaving him with thoughts on migration and resilience.
This guest post by Sibaram Das explores the historical significance of Balkh, the ancient kingdom of Bahlika, the elder brother of King Shantanu, who later became the king of Hastinapur. This leads to the city of Balkh, located near Afghanistan's Hindu Kush mountains. In modern-day Afghanistan, Balkh is rich in cultural heritage and is associated with figures like Zoroaster and Jalaluddin Rumi. The author shares his journey through its ruins, reflecting on its layered histories and how tangible connections to the past can enrich our understanding of ancient myths.
On June 5, 2025, I visited Erbil's Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with anticipation to explore its rich history. However, upon arrival, I learned the Citadel was closed for renovations. Despite the disappointment, I found joy capturing views of the Citadel from outside, enjoying the nearby bustling Qaysari Bazaar, and sharing a moment with a small bird at a café. I left with a promise to return and explore its ancient treasures.
This road trip from Ranchi to Rourkela for Tania's cousin's engagement on April 25th was a blend of careful planning and unexpected detours, emphasizing family and resilience. Traveling with Tania, recovering from surgery, we prioritized comfort and safety, opting for a longer but better route. The journey included moments of spirituality, challenges with terrain, and the support of family. Ultimately, this trip became a cherished memory, reflecting life's unpredictable yet navigable nature.
In August 2007, I embarked on my first flight into Baghdad, experiencing a nerve-wracking corkscrew descent designed for safety amidst conflict. Arriving in a war-torn city, I was there to help transform the Trade Bank of Iraq's digital landscape. Supported by a local colleague, I navigated security and customs, witnessing Baghdad's scars of war alongside its resilience. This journey signified a significant beginning in my professional life.
