Spiritual abode

Intricately carved stone sculptures and tiered design of Dravidian architecture.

Introduction

The Murudeshwar Temple is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva in Karnataka, India. It is located in the peaceful coastal town of Murud

eshwar and holds great importance for both devotees and travelers. This sacred place combines religious serenity with natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for spiritual reflection and relaxation.

History and Architecture

The Murudeshwar Temple in Karnataka, India, has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. The temple’s design reflects the influence of the intricate Chalukya and Kadamba sculptures, showcasing the incredible skill of ancient craftsmen. These sculptures are not only beautiful but also hold deep cultural meaning.

Dravidian Architectural Style

One of the most notable things about the Murudeshwar Temple is its architectural style, known as Dravidian architecture. This style is characterized by:

Pyramid-shaped towers called gopurams
Detailed carvings depicting gods, goddesses, and mythological characters

The combination of Chalukya and Kadamba art with Dravidian architecture creates a stunning visual experience. As you wander through the temple complex, you’ll be greeted by a multitude of carvings and architectural wonders that tell stories of the past.

The fusion of Chalukya and Kadamba artistry with Dravidian architectural principles creates a visually captivating experience for visitors, offering a glimpse into the region’s illustrious past and cultural legacy.

Architectural Marvels

The Murudeshwar Temple is home to several architectural marvels that captivate visitors with their grandeur and spiritual significance:

1. 37m High Shiva Statue

The temple is renowned for its towering 37-meter high statue of Lord Shiva, which stands as the tallest statue in India. The impressive sculpture overlooks the Arabian Sea, creating a breathtaking backdrop for devotees and tourists alike.

2. 237ft Gopura

Another striking feature of the temple complex is the majestic 237-foot tall gopura, serving as a monumental entrance tower. This awe-inspiring structure is celebrated as the second tallest gopura in the country, adding to the splendor of the temple’s architecture.

3. Sri Mridesa Linga

Enshrined within the sanctum sanctorum of the temple is the sacred Sri Mridesa Linga. Believed to be a fragment of the original Atma Linga, this revered symbol holds profound religious significance and draws worshippers seeking divine blessings.

These architectural marvels not only showcase the artistic and engineering prowess of ancient craftsmen but also serve as enduring symbols of faith and devotion at the Murudeshwar Temple.

Spiritual Practices, Festivals, and Offerings

The Murudeshwar Temple offers visitors the opportunity to partake in various spiritual practices and vibrant festivals, enriching their cultural experience:

Abhisheka (Divine Bath)

You can immerse yourself in the spiritual rituals of Abhisheka, a sacred practice involving the pouring of holy substances like milk, ghee, curd, honey, and water over the deity. This divine bath is believed to bestow blessings upon the devotees and create a deeply reverent atmosphere within the temple.

Rathotsava (Chariot Festival)

One of the most anticipated events at the temple is Rathotsava, a grand chariot festival celebrated annually with great fervor. During this vibrant festival:

The presiding deity is adorned with exquisite decorations
Placed in a beautifully crafted chariot
Devotees joyously pull the chariot around the temple complex accompanied by traditional music, chants, and religious rituals.

Participating in these spiritual practices and festivals allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Murudeshwar Temple and gain a deeper understanding of its religious significance.

Exploring the Surroundings: Jog Falls and Gokarna

Situated in close proximity to Murudeshwar, visitors have the opportunity to explore the stunning nearby attractions of Jog Falls and the tranquil town of Gokarna.

Jog Falls

Known for its natural beauty, Jog Falls is a majestic sight to behold. It is one of the highest plunge waterfalls in India, cascading from a height of about 253 meters. The breathtaking views and the surrounding lush greenery make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Gokarna

This serene coastal town is famous for its pristine beaches and ancient temples. Gokarna is a place of great spiritual and historical significance, attracting both pilgrims and tourists. Visitors can explore the renowned Mahabaleshwar Temple, relax on the scenic beaches such as Om Beach and Kudle Beach, and immerse themselves in the laid-back, bohemian atmosphere of this charming town.

Water Sports Adventures at Netrani Island

Netrani Island, located near Murudeshwar, offers an exhilarating array of water sports activities, making it a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts. Here are some thrilling experiences to look forward to:

Jet Ski Rides

Feel the rush of adrenaline as you speed across the azure waters of the Arabian Sea on a jet ski. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, the island provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable adventure.

Scuba Diving Expeditions

Dive into the mesmerizing underwater world surrounding Netrani Island. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and encounter intriguing species of fish in their natural habitat. Certified instructors ensure a safe and memorable diving experience for all skill levels.

With its captivating marine biodiversity and opportunities for high-octane water sports, Netrani Island is a captivating extension to the spiritual and cultural allure of Murudeshwar.

How to Reach Murudeshwar Temple

To reach the sacred town of Murudeshwar and explore its spiritual and architectural marvels, you can consider the following travel options:

Distance from Bengaluru to Murudeshwar

The distance between Bengaluru and Murudeshwar is approximately 490 kilometers. Travelers can opt for a road trip, which takes around 8-9 hours, or use bus services that operate between these two cities.

Distance from Mangaluru to Murudeshwar

If you are traveling from Mangaluru, the distance to Murudeshwar is about 155 kilometers. The journey by road typically takes around 3-4 hours, offering picturesque views of the coastal landscape.

Nearest Airport

For those preferring air travel, the nearest airport to Murudeshwar is located in Mangaluru. Upon arriving at Mangaluru International Airport, visitors can avail of taxi services or public transportation to reach the temple town.

Murudeshwara Railway Station

The town has its own railway station, Murudeshwara Railway Station, situated just 3 kilometers away from the temple complex. This provides convenient access for those traveling by train.

By leveraging these transportation facilities, you can embark on a seamless journey to experience the enchanting allure of Murudeshwar Temple and its surroundings.

Conclusion

Plan your visit to Murudeshwar Temple today and immerse yourself in its rich history, stunning architecture, and serene ambience. It’s a truly remarkable destination that will leave you feeling inspired and spiritually rejuvenated.

Affirmations – Life changing mantra

Affirmations have the power to transform lives by reshaping thought patterns and fostering a positive mindset. Here’s a personal account of how affirmations have made a significant impact on my life:

The Shift in Mindset: Several years ago, I found myself caught in a cycle of negative self-talk and self-doubt. I constantly questioned my abilities, which hindered my personal and professional growth. I was not very confident, at times I underestimated my capabilities. That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of affirmations, through my fellow teacher. She used to practice the Laws of attraction by Louise Hay. That’s how I slowly started learning more about affirmations, a couple of years ago. Initially I used to practice in my mind and then slowly I started writing my affirmations in a note book.

Starting Small: I began by crafting simple, positive statements that countered my negative beliefs. For example, I would repeat phrases like “I am capable,”” I am healthy” I love myself “I am worthy of success,” and “I believe in myself.” At first, it felt somewhat unnatural, but I persevered.

Consistency is Key: I made it a daily practice to recite these affirmations, both in the morning and before bed. The key was consistency. Over time, they became ingrained in my thinking.

Boost in Confidence: Slowly but surely, I noticed a shift in my self-perception. I started to believe the affirmations I was repeating. My confidence grew, and I found myself taking on challenges that I would have shied away from before.

Overcoming Challenges: When faced with difficulties, I turned to my affirmations for strength and encouragement. Phrases like “I can handle anything that comes my way” and “Challenges make me stronger” became my mental armor.

Improved Relationships: Affirmations didn’t just impact my relationship with myself; they also influenced my interactions with others. By cultivating a positive self-image, I became more open, empathetic, and understanding in my relationships.

Achieving Goals: One of the most remarkable changes was in my ability to set and achieve goals. Affirmations instilled a sense of purpose and belief in my capabilities. I started accomplishing things I’d previously only dreamed of. The best example I can give is my trips to U.S.A, Egypt and Paris.

Resilience and Optimism: Perhaps the most profound transformation was in my resilience and overall outlook on life. Affirmations helped me cultivate a sense of optimism, even in the face of adversity.

A Lifelong Journey: It’s important to note that affirmations aren’t a one-time fix. They’re a lifelong tool for personal growth and self-improvement. I continue to use affirmations to maintain a positive mindset and face life’s challenges head-on. In fact I had always wanted to pen down my thoughts, but I was not too confident. But yes with daily practice of positive affirmations, I have started my journey on blogging and I am thoroughly enjoying it.

Affirmations have been a powerful force for change in my life. They’ve shifted my mindset from one of self-doubt to self-belief, from negativity to positivity, and from limitations to limitless possibilities. They’ve helped me become the best version of myself, and I’ll forever be grateful for the transformative impact they’ve had on my life.

A Journey to the Blue City: Exploring Jodhpur

Jodhpur, often referred to as the “Blue City” of India, had always intrigued me with its rich history and vibrant culture. This time, I decided to embark on a train journey to this magnificent city, with my students and it turned out to be an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, warm encounters, and unforgettable experiences.

My journey to Jodhpur began at the bustling railway station in my hometown, Mumbai. The anticipation of the train’s arrival added to the excitement. The rhythmic chug of the locomotive, the hustle and bustle of passengers, and the vendors selling chai and snacks set the scene for an authentic Indian train adventure. My students were extremely excited as some of them were traveling in a train for the first time.

As the train pulled out of the station, I watched the urban landscape give way to picturesque countryside. The passing fields, villages, and glimpses of rural life painted a vivid picture of India’s diversity.

We arrived in the Blue City after a comfortable overnight journey, I awoke to find myself at the Jodhpur railway station. The excitement of finally being in the Blue City was palpable.

A visit to the opulent Umaid Bhawan Palace was a must. After breakfast we boarded our buses and visited the palace. The palace is situated on the highest point in Jodhpur, providing panoramic views of the Blue City below and the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in the distance. Our tour guide explained to us about the historical significance and about the famous architect who has built five similar structures. My students definitely were fascinated. They had wanted to visit it as our famous Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas had got married in the palace complex.

Historical Significance:

Umaid Bhawan Palace, named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, was constructed between 1928 and 1943.
It served as a means of employment for thousands of people during a period of severe drought and famine, providing them with livelihoods and sustenance.

Architectural Marvel:

The palace is a splendid example of Indo-colonial and art deco architecture, blending Western and Eastern design influences.
Designed by renowned architect Henry Vaughan Lanchester, it boasts 347 rooms and is one of the largest private residences in the world.
Current Usage:
Today, a portion of the palace serves as a luxury heritage hotel, allowing guests to experience the regal ambiance and hospitality reminiscent of the Maharaja’s era.
A section of the palace is still the private residence of the current Maharaja of Jodhpur, Gaj Singh II.
The remaining part of the palace houses the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and historical items, offering visitors a glimpse into the royal past.

The palace’s grandeur, both in architecture and history, was awe-inspiring.

Next day we decided to explore the Mehrangarh Fort ,the crown jewel of Jodhpur, and rightly so. The colossal structure, perched atop a rocky hill, offered breathtaking views of the city below. The intricate architecture and well-preserved artifacts inside the fort gave me a glimpse into Jodhpur’s royal past. Again while we took a tour of the fort our tour guide shared interesting facts about the coronation ceremony that took place in the fort and some interesting facts about the harem.

Historical Significance:

Mehrangarh Fort was built in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, on a rocky hill known as Bhaurcheeria (Mountain of Birds).
It served as the seat of the Marwar rulers of the Rathore clan for generations.

Architectural Marvel:

The fort’s massive sandstone walls, which rise up to 120 feet, are a testament to the impressive Rajput architecture.
The intricate latticed windows, ornate carvings, and massive gates reflect the craftsmanship of the time.
The fort is known for its seven monumental gates, each with its own historical significance.

Museum and Heritage:

Mehrangarh Fort houses the Mehrangarh Museum, which displays an extensive collection of artifacts, paintings, royal palanquins, arms, and armor.
The museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the region.

Panoramic Views:

Perched at an elevation of 410 feet above the city, the fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of Jodhpur, famously known as the “Blue City,” due to the blue-painted houses below.
The views extend to the Thar Desert in the distance.

Impressive Palaces:

Inside the fort, you’ll find a series of splendid palaces like Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Sheesha Mahal (Mirror Palace), and Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), each adorned with exquisite detailing.
These palaces showcase the opulent lifestyle of the Maharajas.

Cultural Events:

The fort often hosts cultural events, concerts, and festivals, making it a vibrant hub of Rajasthani culture.

Preservation:

The fort is remarkably well-preserved, thanks to the efforts of the Mehrangarh Museum Trust.

Film and Pop Culture:

Mehrangarh Fort has been featured in several movies, including “The Dark Knight Rises,” and is a popular backdrop for cultural documentaries and music videos. Now a days it is a fashion to have pre wedding shoots here.

Visitor Experience:

Today, Mehrangarh Fort is a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to explore its history, architecture, and cultural heritage. The best time to visit is winter.

Mehrangarh Fort, with its awe-inspiring architecture, rich history, and commanding views, is a symbol of the enduring legacy of Rajasthan’s royalty. A visit to this monumental fort offers an unforgettable journey through time and a deeper appreciation for the royal heritage of Jodhpur. It stands as a testament to the grandeur and valor of the Rathore rulers and continues to be a jewel in the crown of India’s architectural heritage.

Just as all good things end, it was time for us to bid farewell to the Blue City. As my train chugged away from the Jodhpur railway station, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness mixed with gratitude. The journey had been a wonderful blend of culture, history, and adventure, all experienced through the unique lens of train travel. Jodhpur’s charm, both in its people and its architecture, had left an indelible mark on my heart.

A Traveling History Buff

I am not your typical traveler; I am a History teacher, an explorer on a quest to uncover the rich tapestry of history that weaves through our world. My passion for travel and my deep love for history converge to make me an extraordinary individual who seeks adventure in the stories of the past.

The Wanderlust Within: Travel, for me, is not just a leisure activity; it’s a lifelong journey of discovery. I am perpetually fueled by wanderlust, always yearning to explore new places, immerse myself in diverse cultures, and uncover the hidden gems that history has left behind. I am especially fascinated by the Japanese culture and plan to visit Kyoto some day. I have a few pen pals through them I learn about their interesting culture.

A History Buff’s Odyssey: History, in all its grandeur and intricacy, is my guiding light. I am a history buff, and I embrace this label with pride. Whether it’s wandering the cobblestone streets of ancient cities, standing in the shadow of monumental ruins, or delving into the stories of great civilizations, history is my constant companion on my travels.

Collecting Stories: Traveling is not just about ticking off destinations on a map; it’s about collecting stories. I relish every moment of learning about the past, connecting with the people I meet along the way, and savoring the flavors of different cultures. Each adventure adds another chapter to my own personal history book.

Beyond Ordinary: My passion for travel and history drives me to seek the extraordinary in the ordinary. I find beauty in the worn pages of a history book and wonder in the ruins of ancient civilizations. It’s in these moments that I feel most alive, and it’s these experiences that define me. I have pen pals around the world. Some of them I have visited. A pen pal in Paris, my dear Christine took me to the Palace of Versailles, I always wanted to visit and was curious to see , as I taught my students the Treaty of Versailles was signed in the Hall of Mirrors.

Sharing the Journey: I believe that the joy of travel and the magic of history should be shared. Through my travels, I aspire to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of discovery, to appreciate the world’s diverse cultures, and to recognize the threads of history that connect us all. My trip to Egypt took me to the land of the Pharohs and my dream fulfilled to see the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Join me on my travels as I uncover the forgotten stories, hidden treasures, and ancient mysteries that make our world so extraordinary. Together, let’s explore the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future.

Living with Travel Memories

Daily writing prompt

Why do you blog?

View all responses

Blogging about travel journeys serves several purposes, and people have I have several motivations for sharing my travel experiences through blogs. Some common reasons why I choose to blog about my travel journeys:

Documenting Memories: Travel blogs act as digital journals that allows me to document my adventures. Writing about the places I visit, the people I meet, and the experiences I have helps me to preserve memories for years to come.
Sharing Experiences: Travelers often want to share their unique experiences, insights, and discoveries with others who may be planning similar trips. By writing about their journeys, they can provide valuable information and tips to fellow travelers.
Inspiring Others: Travel blogs can inspire and motivate others to explore new destinations and cultures. Through vivid descriptions, captivating photos, and personal anecdotes, bloggers can ignite a sense of wanderlust in their readers.
Connecting with a Community: Blogging creates an opportunity for travelers to connect with a like-minded community. They can engage with readers who share their passion for travel, exchange ideas, and receive feedback and recommendations.
Education and Cultural Exchange: Travel blogs can serve as educational resources. Bloggers often delve into the history, culture, and traditions of the places they visit, providing readers with valuable insights into different parts of the world.
Creative Expression: Writing about travel allows individuals to express their creativity. They can experiment with different writing styles, photography, and storytelling techniques to make their blogs engaging and unique.
Building a Personal Brand: Some travelers turn their blogs into personal brands. They use their travel experiences to establish themselves as experts in the field, potentially leading to opportunities for sponsorships, partnerships, or travel-related businesses.
Reflection and Growth: Blogging about travel provides a platform for self-reflection. Travelers can analyze their experiences, challenges, and personal growth during their journeys, which can be a valuable exercise in self-awareness.
Keeping Friends and Family Informed: Travel blogs offer a convenient way to keep friends and family updated about one’s adventures. Loved ones can follow the journey in real-time, even from afar.
Monetization: While not the primary motivation for many travel bloggers, some may eventually monetize their blogs through advertising, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, or selling travel-related products and services.

In summary, travel blogging is a multifaceted activity that combines a passion for exploration with creative expression, a desire to share knowledge and inspire others, and the potential for personal and professional growth. It allows travelers to connect with a global community of fellow adventurers and leave a digital footprint of their journeys for the world to discover.

Golden Escape: My Unforgettable Journey to Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, the “Golden City” of India, had always been a place of fascination for me. Its mesmerizing sand dunes, ancient forts, and rich Rajasthani culture had beckoned me for years. Finally, my dream came true when I embarked on a trip to Jaisalmer, with my students on a school excursion. With a group of nearly 70 students and a few teachers.

Arrival in the Desert Jewel . After our six hour bus journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, I caught my first glimpse of the city’s iconic fort, rising majestically from the arid landscape. The excitement was palpable as we entered in this desert wonderland.

We checked into a charming heritage hotel ,rightly named as ” Heritage Inn” a decision taken by our Tour Adventure, that allowed us to immerse ourselves in the city’s rich history.

Patwon ki Haveli

Early morning, after breakfast we visited Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five historic mansions adorned with exquisite artwork .These havelis are a prominent attraction in the city and offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy trader during the 19th century. Here’s what you need to know about Patwon Ki Haveli:

Architectural Marvel: Patwon Ki Haveli is renowned for its intricate and ornate architecture. The havelis are made of golden-yellow sandstone, which is characteristic of Jaisalmer’s buildings. The detailed carvings on the walls, balconies, and facades showcase the artistic prowess of the craftsmen of that era.
A Cluster of Five Havelis: The name “Patwon Ki Haveli” translates to “the haveli of the brocade merchants.” It consists of five separate havelis, each built by different brothers of the Patwa family. While they share similar architectural features, each haveli has its unique charm and design.
Intricate Artwork: The havelis are adorned with exquisite artwork that includes floral patterns, mythological figures, animals, and scenes from everyday life. The fine carvings tell stories of the bygone era and the affluence of the traders who once inhabited these mansions.
Historical Significance: Patwon Ki Haveli is not just a feast for the eyes; it also holds historical significance. It provides valuable insights into the economic prosperity of the region and the social structure of Jaisalmer during the 19th century.

Visiting Patwon Ki Haveli is like stepping back in time and experiencing the grandeur of Rajasthan’s architectural heritage. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting city of Jaisalmer.

Each haveli told its own story of the opulence and craftsmanship of the bygone era.

We later visited the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort. This massive sandstone fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living testament to Rajasthani architecture and culture. It is the only fort in Asia where nearly forty thousand people still live. The intricate carvings on the walls, the grand Jain temples, and the panoramic views from the fort’s ramparts left us in awe.

The Desert Safari Adventure: No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a desert safari. We headed out to the Sam Sand Dunes, about 40 kilometers from the city. Riding a camel across the undulating dunes, we felt like explorers in a vast, golden sea of sand. My students had a great time enjoying the camel ride and sliding in the golden sand ,while they watched the sunset. The sunset over the dunes was a surreal experience, and the desert night sky was a spectacle of stars.

Cultural Immersion : Our last day in Jaisalmer was dedicated to soaking in the local culture. We watched a mesmerizing Rajasthani folk dance performance and listened to the melodious tunes of traditional music instruments. The vibrant colors of the costumes and the energy of the performers added a special charm to our trip.

We also sampled local Rajasthani cuisine, savoring dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. The flavors were a delightful blend of spices and tradition.

My trip to Jaisalmer was a journey through time and culture. The city’s golden sands and golden history left an indelible mark on my heart. From the grandeur of the Jaisalmer Fort to the serenity of the desert, this trip was a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. I left Jaisalmer with a heavy heart, but with memories that will shine as brightly as the city’s golden walls for years to come. Jaisalmer truly lives up to its reputation as a “Golden City,” and I can’t wait to return to this enchanting destination.

Hatu Temple – Heavenly Abode

My trip to Shimla this year, led me to a hidden heavenly abode -Hatu Mata Temple. The temple is situated at Hatu peak in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the highest motorable peak. This place is snow covered in winter and totally disconnected from rest of the world. We had rented a car and reached Hatu peak, just 49kms from Kufri. The last 6 kms drive was very dangerous, we drove on a very narrow ,single road with hardly any vehicles moving past us.

Hatu Peak: It is 3300 meters ( 11152 ft) above sea level and just 8km from Narkanda. The peak offers a spectacular view of the snow-clad Himalayan mountain ranges and in depths we can see the dense forests, green fields and apple orchards. On one side I could see the steep and deep valleys with tall Deodar trees forming charming conical patterns and on the other side I could see the mountains almost pushing me into the valleys below. With every turn of the winding road ,I could feel the sharp ascent and the scenery around would change , bringing in a suspense of what lies ahead.

Hatu Temple: We finally reached Hatu Mata temple in afternoon and the glistening sun rays on the temple with clear blue sky and white fluffy clouds so near to us , we could feel them passing by us. The temple architecture is Pagoda style and inspired like Chinese dragon effects. We had to take out our footwear and went to pray to the temple diety, Goddess Maa Kali. After praying ,I asked the priest about the history of the temple and found it really interesting.

According to the local belief the temple is the temple of ” Mandodari” wife of Ravana , the demon God mentioned in our epic – Ramayana. Goat sacrifice is still in practice when many local tribes come to perform rituals in the month of June. The priest also mentioned about another belief that the Pandava brothers ,of another epic – Mahabharata, spend part of their life here during the period of their exile.

The Hatu peak is also a paradise for trekkers. One can go on a day hike, in a full fledged Himalayan trek-dark pine and deodar forests, enchanting mountain views, provided you time it right during summers.

Glow Garden -Ahmedabad

“Ahmedabad” my birth place has a lot to explore. My childhood memories are attached to this city built by King Ahmed shah I, nearly 700 years ago. The old name of the city was Karnavati that was built on the banks of the river Sabarmati. Today it is a modern city with excellent infrastructure with a blend of ancient heritage and a vibrant present.

I do recollect my visit to Ahmedabad in the early 70’s .I used to visit my grandparents with my mother and my two brothers. The city had dusty roads, dry Sabarmati river , the scorching summer heat and high pollution due to auto rickshaws plying with kerosene. Of course I remember the trains in those days were running on coal and quite slow. Surprisingly we can now reach Ahmedabad in just 5 hours due to the bullet train the Vande Bharat trains.

Now when I visited Ahmedabad I realized the change was amazing. It now has big malls in C.G Road, electric cars, the local buses plying on a separate lane especially for the buses. The dry Sabarmati river has now been filled with the waters from the Narmada river from the famous Narmada Sarovar Dam .The result it is now a beautiful riverfront with a promenade and of course the magical night view of the Atal Bridge.

The river front is also famous for the annual flower show.https://youtu.be/IBqsdjPZ01o

Flower show

This December in the year 2022 ,I visited Ahmedabad enjoyed the cool winter breeze the first day we visited Law garden famous for shopping traditional clothes and handicraft articles’ had dinner at Swati Snacks- authentic Gujrati food.

On day 2 we visited an exhibition of traditional food from different states of India..Nearly 400 varieties of recipes were displayed and also sold

Later we went to Sabarmati ashram and clicked pictures

Day3 : Swaminarayan Mahotsav

https://youtu.be/5UKFQ0SQz00

Ajanta and Ellora Caves- Rock cut Cave Temples

Much has been written about these famous Buddhist caves of Ajanta and Ellora,but only when we visit and see the epitome of great architecture,built during the period of 600-1000 CE,can we believe!This famous UNESCO world heritage sites are found in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra.Again I got an opportunity to visit these caves with my group of students on an educational trip.We traveled by bus for nearly 300 km and were super excited to visit the largest rock cut cave complex,which attracts a lot of tourists not only from India ,but other countries as well. We formed two small groups and were led by expert guides who took us around and explained about the importance of Ellora Caves.He explained that some caves were built by the Buddhist and others were built by Hindus during the Rastrakuta dynasty.There are over 100 caves excavated but we went across a few famous caves. We were stunned with the beauty of cave 16 popularly known as the Kailash Temple.

This temple is believed to have been carved out of a single monolithic rock.The entrance has a low gopuram. Two walls of the main temple has rows of carvings from Mahabharta and the Ramayana.Cave 21 also known as Rameshwar Lena had two well carved sculpture of Goddess Ganga and Yamuna representing the two famous rivers of India.Some notable caves were Ravan ki khai and Nikantha.Cave 25 had a intricate carving of the sun God Surya on its ceiling.

we later went to visit the Buddhist caves and viharas or monasteries. Some caves had big prayer halls.Some caves had large sculptures of Lord Buddha.Notable cave was the Vishwakarma cave built around 615 CE.This cave is also know as the “Carpenters cave” as the rock has a finish of wooden beams.It had a 15 feet tall sculpture of Lord Buddha sitting in a preaching pose.

Caves 30 to 34 had Jain monuments belonging to the Digambara sect of Jainism.Cave 31 had four pillars and a small shrine and sculptures of Lord Mahavira and carvings of Lord Parshwanath. Cave 32 was excavated in the 9th century and called Indra Sabha. In olden days these caves were well painted and covered with limestone plaster.

On the next day we visited the Ajanta caves ,since 1983 these caves have also been listed among the UNESCO Heritage sites.These caves are located on a small hill so we had to walk quite for some time to reach .The view was fantastic.Though these caves existed since the 9th century,they were accidentally discovered by a British officer,while he was hunting for a tiger.These caves are around 108 km away from the city of Aurangbad. The murals in these caves depict frescoes from the Jataka tales.These tales narrate the Buddhist legends describing the previous birth of Lord Buddha. Most of the caves have Viharas or prayer halls for the monks to meditate.

The caves are open for visitors : Timings 8 am to 6 pm.

The best time to visit is November to March.

Entry fees for Indians is Rs.40 and Rs.600 for foreigners.

Would you love to visit these stupendous work of art from ancient India?

Omkareshwar Temple – Epitome of Indian Culture

Most of the Hindu Devotees in India,generally take up pilgrimages and spiritual journeys and visit various temples. Visiting a Shiva temple is considered very pious and visiting the 12 Jyotilingas in various parts of the country is the goal of many Hindus.

We must first understand what is a Jyotirling? A jyotirling is a diverse manifestation of Lord Shiva. Jyoti means light and radiance.Since childhood I was told by my parents to worship Lord Shiva and it became a faith,I still follow.Knowing the significance of Visiting all the 12 jyotirlinga ,I had visited a few of them.

The 12 Jyotirlinga are: * Somnath * Nageshwar * Trimakeshwar *Kashivishwanath * Grushneshwar * Bhimashankar *Vaidyanath *Mahakaleshwar *Kedarnath * Rameshwaram * Mallikaarjun *Omkareshwar .

I have visited a few but in this blog I will write about my recent trip to Omkareshwar Temple in Madhya Pradesh. Of course I will be writing about my trips to other Jyotirlingas. The name Omkareshwar means Lord of Omkarra ,built in the 18th century by King Lingarajendra II,situated on the banks of river Narmada.It is in the sacred town of Omkareshwar, about 78 km from the city of Indore

I actually had a road trip to Omkareshwar with our family friends and my husband. We started our journey at 7am and drove to Grushneshwar Temple at Aurangabad . After our darshan at the famous jyotiling of Grushneshwar in Aurangabad by 4 m , we continued driving. We halted on the National Highway after entering the state of Madhya Pradesh around 8 pm .Tired after the long drive we decided to stay at a hotel in a small town called Sendhwa. We took a family room and had a great dinner.

The rising sun was shining softly as we started our journey towards Omkareshwar ,the holy town was around 150 kms from Sendhwa. We stopped at a small town called Dhamod for delicious breakfast of Indori poha, jalebi and lassi. We continued our journey passing by the historic town of Maheshwar,once ruled by the famous Queen Ahilyabai Holkar.This little sleepy town is also famous for Maheshwari saris, but I was disappointed as I could hardly see any sari making units.I was also keen to see the famous palace and the fort, but we hardly had time and decided to visit it on another trip.

By 11am we reached the town of Omkareshwar and we were constantly nagged by boatmen who wanted to take us on the steam boat on the other side of the river Narmada,where the temple was located. After some haggling we zeroed down on a boat that would take us to the temple,which is located on an Om shaped island.Once we got down from the boat we had to climb a flight of staircase to reach the main entrance of the temple.On reaching ,we were aghast to see a massive crowd and wondered when we could visit the sanctum of the deity. We literally had to bribe a priest and after standing in a queue for nearly three hours we could reach the inner sanctum.I could hear people talking that the temple is usually crowded on weekends and bank holidays. Well , it was a Saturday and a bank holiday and so we had to experience the rush hour and could hardly pray.But I was indeed delighted to see the intricate carvings on the ceiling of the temple and the magnificent designs on the 60 pillars in the hall of the temple. However,the blazing sun shone relentlessly on the domes of the five- storeyed Omkareshwar temple and blue sky was dotted with fluffy white clouds.

The boatman suggested that we also visit the Mamleshwar temple on the other side of the river bank as it is one of the most ancient temple ,believed to be built in the 10th century.We did feel peaceful there as it was less crowded.

Tourists can visit the temple throughout the year but September to March is the best time of the year to visit.