A Rejuvenating Weekend At Shathayu Retreat, Bangalore

Imagine waking up to the melodious chirping of birds, amidst hills and greenery. To witness the chunky clouds float above a lake casting photographic reflections in it. To relax and reconnect with yourself; to experience peace and tranquility, as you take a step towards wellness with Ayurveda. Well, I’m just back with all this (and more) after spending the most relaxed weekend in a while.

Experiencing the Kerala Monsoons at Wayanad

The nonchalant rains made the drive on the private roads through the tea estates of Wayanad slightly bumpy and rough. Had it not been the wee hours of the day, the lush tea estates would have proved to be a pleasant distraction.

Trekking in the Incredible Valley of Flowers

“Phoolon ki Ghati” the board read, meaning “Valley of Flowers”. A mountain stood tall behind it with its peak buried in the wispy clouds. The mist moved about slowly with an aim to embrace everything in its path.

Scuba Diving In India

Splash! A leap of faith taken! The surface closes overhead, you are sinking in slowly. Buoyancy is working its science but the weights on you help you descend into the blue water that looks colorless now. You hear the sound of your breath and your heartbeat regulates with the rhythm of the quiet waters. Tranquility takes over and everything becomes still, even the chaotic thoughts go hush. Absolute peace pervades as you glide weightlessly in the vibrant underwater realm.

Roaming in the Western Ghats

Sitting in a sparsely crowded bus station at 5 a.m. and sipping hot tea, I looked around. A few curious faces stared back at me. I was waiting for the daybreak. A sudden plan & I had packed my backpack, journeyed overnight and landed in a new place at the wee hours. And so here I was, waiting for the sunrise to take over the hostile darkness. In about an hour or so, there was light & we strutted in the small town to lookout for a place to stay. After checking some places (read negotiating the tariff) we finally dumped our luggage in an okay-ish room (clean+affordable is always a thumbs up for me).

How To Pack Light And Travel Smart?

Traveling is exciting and packing bags is like a countdown – excitement building up every minute. As a kid I have seen Papa pack bags with perfection and I am glad I’ve inherited some of his skills.

Stories From The Mountains

Lake of moon: Chandratal/Chandertall

The cold mountain winds were blowing and making it difficult for me to walk anymore on the rough trek path towards the lake of moon – Chandratal, situated at an altitude of 14100 ft (4300 meters, approx.). Halfway through, Tenzin – our local friend and guide had slowed down his pace to match up with mine.