“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.”
Ranchi, a vibrant city in Jharkhand, is not just a location but a personal gateway to nature, particularly Betla National Park. During a recent visit with my family, we explored the park's rich wildlife and history, including the ancient Palamu Fort. From tiger pug marks and ancient forts to roaring waterfalls and the meeting of two rivers, Betla reminded me that some journeys lead us back to ourselves.
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.
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.
Varanasi, a timeless city on the sacred Ganga, captivates visitors with its historic ghats and temples. A trip included a visit to Kashi Vishwanath temple and an evening cruise on the Ganga aboard the Alaknanda luxury liner, offering breathtaking views and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. The experience also encompassed exploring Ravidas Ghat and witnessing the city's rich cultural heritage. The day ended with a memorable Ganga Aarti and a peaceful float of a Floating Diya. The Alaknanda Cruise provided a unique perspective of Varanasi's iconic ghats, offering a tranquil escape from the lively streets, concluding with shopping, a temple visit, and a delightful dinner before departing for Ranchi.
At the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, I met Rajendra Kumar Tiwari — Dukanji, the world-famous moustache dancer. Balancing burning candles in his moustache, he transforms quirk into art. Over tea by the riverside, he shared stories of passion, purpose, and playfulness. That spontaneous meeting turned an ordinary morning into an extraordinary tale of human creativity and spirit.
The journey from Ranchi to Netarhat, the "Queen of Chotanagpur," unfolded beautifully among verdant fields and quaint villages. Arriving at Naturehat Resorts, we enjoyed rustic comfort while savoring local cuisine. As we visited Magnolia Sunset Point and explored the enchanting landscapes, we were captivated by the area's legends and tranquility. The experience deepened family bonds, fostering appreciation for nature's splendour. Leaving Netarhat stirred a longing to return, highlighting its essence as a cherished memory.
Crossing the Bhutan Gate into Phuentsholing is like stepping into another world. From serene monasteries and the vibrant riverside of the Torsa, to the bustling markets and cozy Kizom Café, every corner tells a story. Cultures blend, nature thrives, and spirituality whispers through the town. Even a day here reveals Bhutan’s charm, leaving memories that linger long after departure.
On a freezing January dawn in Varanasi, beside the eternal flow of the Ganga, a journey inward began. What appeared to be a sacred ritual became a lifelong transformation — a moment of surrender, grace, and awakening. Through Diksha, the Guru Mantra, and the timeless wisdom of our Guruji, we discovered a path where devotion, dharma, and inner peace continue to illuminate every step.
On a crisp December morning, I traced the borders of history and heritage near Basirhat, India. Taki, nestled along the Ichhamati River, holds a special place in my heart as a repository of family lore and cultural richness. Once home to influential zamindars, Taki now wears a quieter charm. The town is known for its proximity to the international border with Bangladesh, marked by the serene Ichhamati River. Our brief visit, constrained by time, was rich with experiences and promises of future returns. Taki remains etched in memory—a place where borders blur, and history comes alive with each gentle ripple of the river.
Jeita Grotto, nestled in Keserwan, Lebanon, is a remarkable limestone cave network featuring spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, and a subterranean river. Home to one of the largest hanging stalactites globally, the 9-kilometre-long system encompasses two main galleries - the upper and lower, which can be explored by foot and boat respectively. Noted for its natural beauty, it's one of Lebanon's leading attractions. Rediscovered in 1836, Jeita Grotto's karstic structures were formed over millions of years due to the dissolution of limestone.
