Enchanted Paradise! – Borong and Kalimpong

Engulfed in the peace, spirituality, serenity and bounty of nature are some off -beaten and unexplored places which I happen to visit recently. One of them is Borong, Sikkim.

Located in the South of Sikkim, hidden in the Indian Himalayas, this place lies in a feeling of natural beauty casting its shadow on its innocent earth. Borong is an ideal destination to spend a peaceful holiday away from stress and tensions of monotonous work life. Magnificent views of soaring peak of Mt. Kanchenjunga, carpets of green dotted with vibrant colours of wild mountain flowers, music of chirping birds, fresh mountain air, and aroma of burning pine; is what makes my stay in Borong an out of the world experience. ‘This tiny hamlet, with not much to do here as far as activities and tourist attractions are concerned has much more to offer…

Come spend a moment in the lap of Mother Earth…

As I began my Journey from New Jalpaiguri Station to Borong, the entire road trip was so scenic. The beauty of this road trip cannot be captured in words. How much fun it was to cruise through the roads, the winds that gently touch your skin as you open your arms through the windows. The winds that you feel in your hair as though someone is whispering in your ears and the voice that echoes deep inside you. The winds that blow your dress feels as though the angels bow down as the gates of heaven open. The Waterfalls, and the lush green foliage is so soothing to the jittery nerves as you cross the curly roads and the heightened elevations.  Borong is a scenic village perfect for nature lovers. It mesmerises anyone with its breathtaking beauty.

A feast for the sore eyes is the majestic sunrise and the gorgeous view of snow -capped mountain range. When the sun kisses the snow peaks at the time of sunrise, it’s a sight that is worthwhile.
One can spend a relaxing holiday just gazing at the snow clad Himalayas changing into hues of orange with the rising sun, watching clouds play hide and seek from your hotel balcony or sipping a cup of hot tea while snacking onto delicious momos.

We had a cosy stay at a resort in the upper reaches of Borong, where one experiences the tranquility of Sikkimese countryside. We even enjoyed our lunch visit to Mt. Narsing village, where we had the authentic meal at a local restaurant. The local delicacies like the Thukpa or the Momos are a treat to savour.
As we move forward to Ravangla, we stop by at the Temi Tea Garden. It’s the only tea estate in Sikkim and produces top quality tea for International market. Enroute our road journey we felt as if we were floating literally with the clouds. The breathtaking gorgeous view of the entire estate made me fall in love with the place. 

The perfect foggy weather and wind blowing was apt for a wanderer like me. I felt like running through these tea meadows like a free bird.What a feeling of joy, soon I forget all responsibilities that hold me back. I walk around in a wide awake daydream, humming my favorite song, how I wish I could shout aloud. The angels in the heaven may wonder why am I so glad? Yes am dreaming and I know its alright.

My next stop was the Buddha Park. My trip would be incomplete without the visit to this awe inspiring place which showcases the Buddhist culture. A gigantic 135 ft. statue of Lord Buddha features in the complex which is so eye – catching and unique.

The stunning murals depict the stories of Buddha and the massive gardens are a treat. Outside the temple there are water fountains you can wish upon with a coin. The prayer flags that blow endlessly uplift you. The whole environment becomes so calm and soothing with the chants. The prayer wheels line through the walkway. The whole area exudes and enriches the feelings of spirituality and oneness.

After such a wonderful and serene environment visit, another perfect place to rejuvenate was Kalimpong. The whole idea of a vacation is to unwind and relax, which came true in form of a leisure travel to Kalimpong where time was at my beck and call. The joy of simply doing nothing, lazing around and sleeping on a hammock for hours was on the “to – do list”.

 My most poignant memory of Kalimpong, would be the colourful blooms and thus undoubtedly this place known as the “City of Flowers”. To top it all our home stay at “Windsongs” was a cherry on top of the cake. . One word to describe our stay ….Sublime! It was one of my best accommodation experience.

The room overlooked the valley.  The hospitality was remarkable. The food was just perfect.  The landscaping of this property was amazing. Morning tea and breakfast were served at the Pergola covered with a dark glossy foliage giving it a welcome shade. A tiny little waterfall cascading over the rocks behind the Pergola, where you can hear the sound of the water was so soothing. This quaint little gem made me fall in love once again.

The day comes to an end bringing in a sense of harmony and happiness as I laze through the day, enjoying my time with my besties. I stand out in the porch, my eyes are glued to the last orange rays before twilight beckons. 

As you change from shades of pink, to shades of orange and then you fade into darkness, there I go chasing you… the sunset n me! 

When I look back, I thank my life for everything. The exquisite view is so nostalgic when the dusk sets…

This day, this time may never come again but it makes me believe that each day is a new beginning and ends beautifully so one must cease the moment and enjoy to the fullest.

In the evening whilst, our group relaxed outside the cottage sitting on the logs singing songs, many fireflies crowded around. As the evening turns into night, I sit outside the verandah. I listen to the whispers of nature and enjoy “Me time”.

The next day begins with an early morning walk as I feel the morning dew, covering the entire turf outside the cottage. Bare feet, tip toeing I enjoy the misty morning with cooled soles. The day proceeds and am ready to go visit the Delo Hill.

Delo Hill is a beautiful nature park. The view point from the hill top gives a panoramic view of Teesta river, mountain slopes and alpine forest around. A leisurely stroll amidst the peaceful surrounding and splendid views cheers up your mood and makes you feel happy. The childhood days are relived while enjoying the swing at the park and relishing my favourite ice-cream.  

 

An adventurous soul can even try Paragliding out here. 

Here I sit,
Thinking of all,
The moments of the past.
I love to sit and watch the world,
Watch the water pass, the birds fly by.
Layer upon layer of bright clouds,
Bright sun rises through the pines.

I love the feeling of being there,
No more daily rigmarole,
Just sitting here on the cliff,
The cold air across my face, oh what a wonderful feeling.

The absence of all the noise and commotion,
The busy city life I leave behind,
I forget all the anger and the pain,
I just sit on my cliff and begin to unwind.

To let me live my life my way,
Just let me be like a bird so free,
Watch nature's world so peaceful and quiet,
Oh what I wouldn’t give,
To sit here on my cliff,
Just to my heart's content.
I wonder what I gained and what did I lose.

Mind is travelling as far as eyes can see, memories I weave.

Spiritual India - Glimpses of Govardhan and Mathura

Visit to Girirajji – The Divine Paradise!

Lively music of festivities and bhajans, startling sound of delightful applause, loud rejoicing “Radhey Radhey”, feet of devotees dancing in ecstasy, that’s the scenario as one enters the temple of Girirajji.

Girirajji also known as Govardhan is located in Jatirpura near Mathura. The mystical environment is so magical and welcoming, as one approaches this holy place. This hillock is blessed by Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan on his little finger to protect the Brajwasis from the fury of Lord Indra’s devastating rain.

hantāyam adrir abalā hari-dāsa-varyo

yad rāma-kṛṣṇa-caraṇa-sparaśa-pramodaḥ

mānaḿ tanoti saha-go-gaṇayos tayor yat

pānīya-sūyavasa-kandara-kandamūlaiḥ

(Bhagavad Gita Chapter 21, Text 18)

The opulence of Govardhan Hill is described in the above Shloka.

(Of all the devotees, this Govardhana Hill is the best! O my friends, this hill supplies Krsna and Balarama, along with their calves, cows and cowherd friends, with all kinds of necessities — water for drinking, very soft grass, caves, fruits, flowers and vegetables. In this way the hill offers respects to the Lord. Being touched by the lotus feet of Krsna and Balarama, Govardhana Hill appears very jubilant.)

It is said that Girirajji has been cursed by Saint Pulastya Muni and is shrinking inch by inch. At the base of Girirajji is the Mukharvind Mandir. This Govardhan Shila is where the puja Arti is held every day. This place is so alive with divine vibrations and energy. During the Arti, the joyous feelings awakened through the melodious chanting makes you feel in oneness with the Supreme. It’s seems like a call of Eternity. 

Every morning the Mangla Arti is performed with all the rituals. Milk is offered to the Shila. The Pujari then gives bathe to the deity, applies Tilak and Dhoti Uparna is wrapped around for the Mangla Swaroop. In the morning, Maakhan, Mishri (sugar) is offered as Prasad.

The Mukharvind of Girirajji is decorated every evening. Once the Shringar is done, one feels the live presence of Shrinathji and can be felt receptive. The scene is truly beautiful to behold. It is believed that after the Sandhya Arti (shayan) at Nathdwara, Shreenathji comes to the Mukharvind Mandir at Girirajji through a dark tunnel to give Darshan and returns back to Nathdwara in the morning.

Giriraji's Darshan during winters - 

Girirajji's Darshan during Holi. The full backdrop is decorated with real flowers and is known as Phool Mandli. The devotees play with colours in front of the deity and get immersed in dancing to the tunes of the Kirtans. Its a fun filled atmosphere. The Raaj Bhog is offered to the Deity.

There is a replica of Shreenathji Temple on top of the Govardhan.

Giriraj Parikrama:

Girirajji's Parikrama means walking around the Govardhan Hill as a form of worship. It envisages en route various Kunds and Sarovars each having their own significance. The devotees perform the seven or nine kos Parikrama. Whilst most of the devotees opt to walk and do the Parikrama, it can even be done in a rickshaw. While roaming in the various sites of the Parikrama, my eyes caught a sight of some of them perform the Dandvati Parikrama. I was amazed at the undying belief and faith of these devotees.

      Dandvati Shila – All the devotees begin the Parikrama after taking blessings from here.

                              

        Mansi Ganga - The Parikrama begins and ends at Mansi Ganga. The temple of Chakleshwar Shiv Ling is here.

                                                                                       

     Radha Kund

      Radha Kund is the personified love of Shri Radharani. Radhaji and her sakhis filled this Kund by carrying water from the Mansi Ganga. As I entered the courtyard, I saw a very peculiar big tree ages old with a complete hollow trunk. It was a unique thing. At Radha Kund there are all the three Baithaks of Shri Vallabh Acharyaji, his son Shri Guisainji and his son Shri Gokulnathji. Its rare to find all the three baithaks at one place.  The place was so peaceful.  

       Kusum Sarovar - At midnight, on the banks of the Kusum Sarovar, it is said that lord Krishna spends time with his beloved Radha beneath an Ashoka Tree.   It is a picturesque landscape.

                        

    Daan Ghati Temple - It is one of the main temple structure in Girirajji. As you enter the city, you get a glance of Daan Ghati Temple. It is said that Lord Krishna as his passtime used to collect Daan (tax) from the Gopis. The Gopis used to give milk products to Lord Krishna and his friends to pass through the path. 

                                  

     Chandra Sarovar - As one of the famous Gujarati Bhajan recites - "Chandra Sarovar Chowke Bole Shri Krishna Sharnam Mamah", At Govardhan this place is renowned as the Raas site. 

Surdasji’s Kuti and Samadhi are planted within the circumference of Vallabhacharyaji's Baithak. Surdasji had desired to write 1.25 lakh times Kirtan, but he was unable to complete. Lord Krishna helped finish the Kirtans to form the Sur sagar Granth. While visiting this place, we passed through farmlands. This view made me feel a reconnect to my childhood days, when I used to visit my Grandparents hometown. It was so refreshing and felt more attached to the roots. Feeding the cows, travelling in a rickshaw, monkeys hovering around...complete village experience and so nostalgic.

                                       

Govind Kund

                                   

Kaan Bava Temple - We paid a visit en route to the Kaan Bava Temple. As the name says for itself, here it is said that we can whisper our wishes in the ears of the auspicious Shila and offer our prayers. 

Jaan Ajaan Vriksha - There is a big tree en route which is known as the Jaan Ajaan Vriksha. It is said that the Gopis while in search of Lord Krishna used to ask this tree where is our Lord and the tree acted ignorant as if it was not aware.

    Saddu Pandey ji ki Baithak - Shri Mahaprabhuji stayed at Saddu Pandey's house at Anyor. Hence its considered one of the Baithaks of Shree Mahaprabhuji. This was the place of Pratham Milan (first meeting) of Shreenathji and Shri Mahaprabhuji. We walked across the cobbled lanes and alleys to reach Saddu Pandeyji House which stands even today to do the Darshan.

   

                                          

     Poonchari ka lota – This is the last stop and it is said that one must visit here before they complete the Parikrama.

My Visit to the Banks of Yamuna River –

Shri Yamunaji is adorned with countless virtues and worshipped by all. The Pious city Mathura is situated on her banks. Shri Yamunaji blesses everyone with happiness, and is said to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. On the banks of the river, we offered Puja and did the rituals. While sitting at the banks my mind was at peace and it brought in harmony within me. While watching the serene water shimmer in the sunshine, suddenly there was silence around as if all the other noises drowned in this magical moment and the wind lifting me up. I just felt tranquilled, calm and a sense of belonging.

A person who partakes the water from the river is said to rejuvenate, gets freedom from all his sins and is given forgiveness. By paying a visit, your soul is purified and all your obstacles are removed is the belief of the followers.

The evening Arti is a visual treat.

Shri Yamunaji is the epitome of selfless devotion to Lord Krishna.

Chunari Manorath

A Chunri Manorath, folk traditional festival is carried out on the Yamuna River. This particular ritual consists of stretching sarees across the Yamuna River in boats as an offering to the goddess. 

The Dwarkadhish Temple

Amongst the bustling streets of the Mathura Bazaar, stands the magnificent Dwarkadhish Temple. One can enter the local bazaar from the main gate and reach the temple walking or on cycle rickshaw. The narrow lanes cut through the hustle and bustle of the local market.

                                    

                                     

The structure of the temple has the glimpse of local Rajasthani art and architecture. The interiors boast the excellent work of art, brilliant carvings and exquisite paintings. The ceiling and the inner courtyard,is a glimpse of the various paintings of Krishna Leela. I was awestruck as I entered the Temple to view the intoxicating grandeur. The whole experience was overwhelming

                                      

I had a wonderful and most memorable trip. I must say that one who visits these places once, will always be drawn again. It gave me a lot of insights of the Pushti Marg - a selfless love for Lord Krishna.  Moreover, I thank my cousin without whom I wouldn't have thought of visiting these places and explore the nuances of the place.  Looking forward to travelling to many such places across India and exploring their untold stories....

Magical Meeting place of East and West – Istanbul, Turkey!

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.

Life throws at you a lot of opportunities and also gives you setbacks, which is a learning curve and lessons to be learnt. After a couple of setbacks in Life, I too realized many things. At the crossroads of Life the BIG question I asked myself was, what are the things I wish to do and not have any regrets in the Future? One of them was to explore the world and travel to different places. It was all about knowing the UNKNOWN. Travelling is all about bringing home a collage of memories, meeting new people from different walks of life, exploring the various places, cultures and their way of living.

This one question made me take a step into travelling around the world on my own and alone. It’s not that I have not travelled earlier but it’s always been with Family. But last year, around this time I decided to venture out all by myself.

I believe travel is a good education and I wish to share my experience.

I’ll be honest. There had been a few times where I second guessed myself while doing my bookings, wondering if I would be safe or if there would be any chance of me being harassed or attacked. The day before I went on my first trip alone I felt bit jittery, wondering what the hell I was about to embark on, and if I would regret it. But there are many things you do learn. Things like independence, patience, understanding, appreciation, cultural immersion, feeling out of your comfort zone, budgeting etc.

And today I am glad I took that step!

I decided to visit Istanbul, Turkey. Well the choice was obvious since I also had an opportunity to attend a conference in Istanbul with regards to my work. So, there begins my Journey…

I book my flight and hotel and Google the places to visit in Istanbul. The standard “to do things” list pops up. So I make a note of them just as a ready reckoner but the idea is to explore the place in an unconventional way as per my choice and desire.

I had decided to stay for a week, where 2 days would go in the conference and the rest was for me to explore the city. I was excited. Finally the day arrives when I board Turkish airlines for a 7 hours journey to Istanbul. The new terminal of Mumbai International Airport looks brilliant and a complete makeover matching the standards of any other international airports. Kudos to the developers – GVK group!

While enjoying a cup of coffee, some refreshments and reading one of my favorite author’s recent Novel, I wait in the lounge to begin my trip. I like the timings of Turkish Airlines as it lands in Istanbul early morning which doesn’t waste your day.

On landing at Ataturk Airport, I am soon done with immigrations and baggage claim and I step out to a whole new world. First things first, needed to find an exchange to get some local currency – Turkish Lira! I then take a taxi to the hotel. The weather was freezing cold as was early-November. I put on my red long coat, happily flaunting it like the little red riding hood…Lol :)

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a home to diverse cultures merging in harmony and bridging two continents. This unique city is located on both sides of the Bosphorus, the narrow strait between the Black Sea and the Marmara Sea which bridges Asia and Europe both physically and culturally. The cultural infusion of various communities, modern influences, traditional values and its historical timeline makes this bustling metropolis, so welcoming for me.

My Hotel, situated right in the heart of the city is located in Taksim area. In midst of the hustle and bustle in the city center, as I reach the hotel, a tall, well - built bell boy welcomes at the entrance greeting you "Good day" with a huge smile! I check in and settle down. Unwind and enjoy the lavish continental breakfast.

As I plan to begin my day, I do some surfing and a quick call to the concierge to get some off- hand information for places to move around to plan my stay. There goes the big list, but the hotel concierge gave me some good tips to try the local cuisines to experience the authenticity.

And am all set to explore the city….

I start by a local walk around the Taksim square, which is famed for many hotels and restaurants. It’s a major tourist and leisure district. Many restaurants are found on the Istiklal Street. The place looks full of life and is the modern face of the city. Live music, shopping and food joints, that’s what makes the place liven up. The trip gets more exciting as I look forward to exploring the history and visiting the historic places too….

BAKLAVA

Turkey is famous for its Kebabs and teas. But it’s a vegetarian heaven too. I being a vegetarian still had lots of options to try. To begin with I had the Mezzes and then Dolmas, Doner, Gozleme Simit, Pide, Lahmacun – All Meat free!!! Finally to satiate your sweet tooth, one can relish the Bakhlavas and Turkish delights. They are a treat and a must try.

The Mezzes are so plentiful and delicious that it’s easy to make a meal out of it. After a delightful meal and a good stroll around, I end my day relaxing at the hotel and with an enchanting evening at the lounge. Sipping a nice drink, A Margherita! I reminisce the day’s experience and a flash of pictures run through my thoughts. I decide to go to bed soon to have a good rest, cover up the jet lag, before I begin a busy day at the conference.

The two days at the conference were hectic and had a chance to meet so many people from the Industry all from different walks of Life. To my surprise, I was the only one from my country, representing not only my company but India too. It was feeling of pride to talk about India and its developments and the possibilities to extend business and trade. It was a wonderful experience for me. My confidence was boosted even more on the warm welcome. I was invited for trade parties. The evenings passed by networking at these cocktail parties at the finest lounges and clubs. During one of the dinners we went to the local and a popular restaurant. Not only the ambience but the food too was authentic and traditional. To top it all there was local dance and music and to my surprise, there was a troop of dancers dancing on Asian music, one of it was an Indian Bollywood number!!!

After the conference, the next day, with a local city map and my DSLR I set myself rolling on to begin my journey to explore the historic side of Istanbul. Something I was really looking forward to. I visited the the Old City which reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here. When you travel to Istanbul, one of the many sites you won't want to miss is Topkapi Palace. Once home to many generations of sultans, the palace is filled with opulent gardens and courtyards, plush Turkish baths, and a secluded former harem, all overlooking the gorgeous Sea of Marmara.

The next stop was the famous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia. I marvelled at the ancient Domes. The city’s greatest works of imperial architecture never ceased to impress me. It’s a jaw dropping experience to view these monuments from inside as you look up and around. The blue mosque has been named due to the blue tiles inside. Its six minarets dominates the skyline of Istanbul. My eyes were fixed staring at the opulence of the sumptuous décor and glimpses of splendour of the once ruling Empire. It’s fascinating to see this rich heritage. While Turkey is predominantly a Muslim country, it has a surprisingly long Jewish history.

I visited the Dolmabache Palace. It’s a beautiful palace right by the Bosphorus strait on the waterfront. It is one the most glamorous palaces of the world. I hopped on to a boat ride on the Bosphorus. It was one of the best way to get the feel of Istanbul and a highly recommended attraction. Something one shouldn’t miss! Taking this boat ride up the strait, one passes through the scenic waterfront neighbourhoods and fortresses. How cosmopolitan is it to spend the morning in Europe and the afternoon in Asia, by the ferry ride. One of the peculiar things I found right in the middle of the Bosphorus is the Suada Club. An island which hosts the famous people from around the world, has the most happening night clubs, coffee shops, restaurants and a swimming pool. How unique does that sound?

Suada Club

The Galata Tower is a landmark of Istanbul. It’s a light house and an observatory. However, I chose to skip it and went further on passing by the Galata Bridge. As I wanted to do some fun things which are less touristy, what caught my eyes was viewing dozens of local men standing along the top of the bridge and fishing over the edge. It was an incredible sight. People spend hours hoping to catch some fresh sea food. There is also a fish market at the base of the bridge. It’s a fun filled experience to go cycling down the streets of the city and onto this bridge.

One of the lesser known Gem is the Basilica Cistern. Its an underground water reservoir built centuries ago. It has hundreds of columns and is dimly lit. Looks and sounds a bit spooky, with the sound of water dripping in the background. As you tread through the walkways you can watch the fish swim in between.

Now was the time to rejuvenate oneself and experience the Turkish Bath – Hamam! After a long day of walking, how relaxing is it to unwind in a steamy room on a hot marble and then a brisk body scrub. It’s a different and soothing experience.

One of the divine experiences is to view the Sama Ritual. It’s an ancient Sufi ceremony. One witnesses the spiritual beauty of unique recitations.

Lastly some shopping time…so I headed to the Grand bazaar which is the largest and oldest covered market in the world. It has thousands of shops selling the local delights. One can have access to Lampshades, copper and ceramic ware, Turkish Handicrafts, the famous Evil Eye, gift shops, Turkish tea sets, Hookah, dates, spices, Turkish delights, and many more. I really liked the Tea cups and the hand painted ceramic crockery. I finally picked up some momento to take back home. It was the most exciting shopping experience and I could spend hours together walking through the streets.

 

Like Turkey, India too is known for its Kashmiri Carpets. The thought of buying a Carpet/ rug never crossed my mind. However, I was excited to see the making of it. So I visited the carpet showroom. Carpet shopping is traditionally a social experience. The warm welcome you receive, served with the Turkish tea and soon its raining carpets. The colors and design cascade in front of you. One after the other they catch your eyes. Its also a joy to see how these carpets are woven. Carpet weaving is a cottage industry and has been passed on through generations in the families that belong here.

And finally the day arrives when I bid adieu to this wonderful city, with memories to cherish forever. I made many friends on this trip. It was truly an admirable stay!