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Stories of a Wayfarer

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“We travel not to escape life, but for life to not escape us” – a journey through the enchanting Parvati Valley

One of the most rewarding things about the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies in Dehradun is its location. At the start of the much-awaited post-exam holidays, no destination left me more wanting than the Great Parvati Valley, situated in neighbouring Himachal Pradesh. It was going to be tedious, but also terrific! The journey is a mountainous march to the end of the Valley, at Kheer Ganga, a holy site. This meadow situated at a height of 2,960 metres, is believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva meditated for 3,000 years. The site is also famous for its hot water spring which is believed to have sacred healing properties. This bathing tank remains snow-covered during winters and gets a temporary settlement during summers. Nobody can discover the world for somebody else. Only when we discover it for ourselves, can we ponder on who we really are. At the start of my journey, I accidentally ran into a couple of my friends – Jayakrishnan and Haroon, who became my travel companions as they were equally craving for adventure and instantly agreed to join on hearing my plans. This ended up in us clubbing both our destinations together – Parvati Valley and Kinnaur Valley.

Kasol

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Stretched along the lovely Parvati River, with mountain views to the northeast, is Kasol – a small village, almost overrun with reggae bars, bakeries and cheap guesthouses catering to a largely hippie/Israeli crowd. It is a summertime venue for trance parties transplanted from Goa, and at any given time an easy base for exploring the forested valley, or just a place to chill out. The village divides into Old Kasol on the Bhuntar side of its bridge, and New Kasol on the Manikaran side. The place has a lot to offer for foodies with its wide array of Israeli and Himachal food joints. The Israeli restaurant we checked into served us exquisite.

Arabic delicacies like baba ganoush, falafel (deep fried chickpea balls served in pita bread), hummus (a mashed chickpea spread, sabih–a sandwich of fried eggplant, shintzel (the breaded and fried chicken cutlets), shawarma, and a range of exquisite desserts such as malawach – a flaky round pastry to be enjoyed with sweet or savoury toppings, kunafah – a shredded pastry topped with soft cheese and sweet syrup, and the star dish of the meal – malabi – a pudding flavoured with rosewater and topped with nuts.After this palatable spread, we strolled back to Kasol through an extremely beautiful trail, right by the side of the river, in the middle of lush green trees and flower beds. Luckily, we had a forest ranger who guided us along the path and advised us on precautions to be taken.

Manikaran

Manikaran, a pilgrimage centre for Hindus and Sikhs, with myths on Manu, Lord Shiva and Parvati attached to it, has many temples as well as a Gurudwara.The road to the Manikaran is well known for its hot springs and beautiful landscape.The bliss of our journey started with a holy dip in the Rudra Kund (or Jwala ji) hot spring, followed by some spicy fried momos (dumplings) from a nearby restaurant. The place withstands enormous shrines all around, spotted with turbaned Sikhs wearing who ride long distances on their motorcycles to make a darshan at the Holy Gurudwara. But they weren’t the only ones. There were people from different races, cast, sectors and states – all united in the common goal of appreciating the beauty of natural landscapes and ancient relics. It made me ponder in pride how tolerant our nation was. Like what Danish author Peter Hoeg once said – “Travelling tends to magnify all human emotions.”

Kheer Ganga

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The name of Kheer Ganga comes from its sheer white foamy waters of Ganga which looks like ‘kheer’ or payasam. Although travelogues said that it was one of the easiest treks, through experience, for city people like us it could be a daunting task! The stretch of the path tests stamina and physical capacities, which we scaled without a guide, ignoring the option to take on a shorter but dangerous route. Almost half an hour before reaching Kheer Ganga, it had started to rain and we had to freeze midway at Rudra Nag. Finally, after the 45 minutes, we reached the top. We were greeted by fellow trekkers, who were foreigners, with a ‘namaste’! Along with the people who were returning to the pool from the Shiva temple on the top of the hill, we spent some time by sitting inside the pool. The water was boiling, but one can easily spend a few hours inside. An ideal way to remove all traces of exhaustion for a trekker. Around dusk, we left the pool feeling light and rejuvenated. We treated ourselves to the spectacular sight of entire snow clad mountain peaks, soaked in the twilight. And here, the mountains echoed “not all those who wander are lost”. We trekked back to our room before the sun sun, clutching on to those gratifying memories.

Kalga – Pulga – Tulga

With Kasol increasingly getting commercialised, tourists seeking a more isolated, scenic and rustic destination in this part of the country should definitely move further up from Kasol to Kalga-Pulga-Tulga, where lies the magic of less explored villages of Parvati Valley. Kalga, a small hamlet, exceptionally scenic due to its apple orchards,is a 90-minute trek from Pulga and a 45-minute trek from Tulga. From what it seemed to me, the entire village is engaged in apple cultivation. Each apple orchard had a house that had been converted into a homestay for tourists and offered rooms to visitors. Tourism is an added source of income. Kalga is a perfect getaway to get lost in solitude and experience silent moments away from the maddening city crowd. After checking out a few places, we decided to check into Boom Shankar Cafe & Homestay located at the far end of Pulga village. Like most other houses in the villages, it was constructed of wood in traditional Himachal architectural style and consisted of 10 rooms, each hosting a double bed. Some even featured tandoors to keep travellers warm, especially when it snowed. Seemingly cozier than other options in the village, we hurriedly booked a room here. After a rejuvenating stay in Kalga, we trekked to Tulga, a small village with the least tourist inflow amongst the three. As we treaded further, the hue and vibrancy of an upcoming holi welcomed us. to a land that blends happiness and peace in a perfect mix.

Words and Photographs by Sankar Induchoodan

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Travel Wellness: Staying Healthy and Fit While Exploring

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Travelling is an enriching experience that broadens horizons and creates lasting memories. However, maintaining your health and fitness while on the road can be a challenge. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets, lounging on a beach, or embarking on an adventure, staying well and fit is crucial for enjoying your travels to the fullest. Here are some practical tips to help you stay healthy and active while exploring new destinations.

Plan Your Travel Meals

Eating healthy while traveling can be challenging, but with a little planning, it’s entirely achievable. Research local cuisine before your trip and seek out restaurants or markets that offer nutritious options. Opt for meals that include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, consider preparing some of your meals to maintain control over ingredients and portions.

Stay Hydrated

Travel can easily disrupt your hydration routine. Always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Drinking enough water helps with digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. If you’re traveling to a place with different water quality, consider bringing a portable water purifier or sticking to bottled water.

Incorporate Physical Activity

Finding time to exercise while traveling can be tough, but it’s essential for maintaining your fitness and energy levels. Here are a few ways to stay active:

  • Use Hotel Gyms: Many hotels offer fitness centers. Utilize these facilities to keep up with your workout routine.
  • Explore on Foot: Walking or biking around your destination not only provides exercise but also allows you to experience the city’s sights more intimately.
  • Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of local outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, or even a beach workout.

Maintain a Sleep Schedule

Traveling at first class. Flight with comfort. Pretty young woman sleeping in airplane.

Adjusting to new time zones can disrupt your sleep pattern, which affects overall health. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule by setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to calming music, can also help you wind down and improve sleep quality.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Travel can be exciting but also stressful. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Many travel destinations offer wellness retreats or classes where you can participate in mindfulness activities.

Pack a Travel Health Kit

Prepare a travel health kit with essentials like vitamins, medications, and first-aid supplies. Include items such as hand sanitizer, travel-sized disinfectant wipes, and any prescription medications you may need. Having these on hand can help prevent illness and manage minor health issues.

Stay Active During Travel

Long flights or car rides can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Take breaks to stretch or walk around every few hours. Simple exercises like seated leg lifts, neck stretches, and shoulder rolls can help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.

Adopt Local Wellness Practices

Explore and embrace local wellness practices and traditions. Whether it’s a traditional Thai massage, Japanese hot springs, or Ayurvedic treatments in India, incorporating local wellness practices can enhance your overall travel experience and contribute to your well-being.

 Avoid Overindulgence

While it’s tempting to indulge in local delicacies, moderation is key. Balance indulgent meals with healthier options and be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoying treats in moderation allows you to savor local flavors without compromising your health goals.

Stay Social and Connected

Social interactions and maintaining connections with loved ones can boost mental health and overall happiness. Make time to connect with fellow travelers, locals, or family and friends back home to keep your spirits high and your travel experience fulfilling.

By integrating these wellness tips into your travel routine, you can ensure a healthier and more enjoyable journey. Staying active, eating well, and managing stress will help you feel your best and make the most of your travel experiences. Safe travels and happy exploring!

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Real House of the Dragon Location You Want to Visit

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Returning to Westeros for the battle between the Blacks and Greens in “House of the Dragon” season two. A civil war within the House of Targaryen over who should inherit the Iron Throne is the subject of the television drama series, which is based on George R. R. Martin’s Fire & Blood and takes place two centuries before Game of Thrones. Along with other important members of the season one ensemble, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen, and Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen are returning for the presently running second season.

We can’t wait to explore all of the amazing filming locations that this series has brought us. Considering how rich the universe is, it makes sense. Rather than depending solely on computer-generated scenery and soundstages, several of the actual filming locales contribute to the world of Westeros’ distinctive atmosphere.

Here, a guide to House of the Dragon filming locations you can visit:

Castleton, Derbyshire, England

In the first season of the show, Castleton, a village in high-peaked Derbyshire with one of the oldest lead mines, was transformed into The Vale of Arryn. Those who watch Game of Thrones would recall this as the location of House Arryn and the Eyrie, a stronghold where adversaries can be driven to their deaths via a moon portal. The region, which was once inhabited by Celtic people, is well-known for its traditional English hamlets and the limestone valley of Cave Dale, which is located inside the national park.

St. Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall, England

St. Michael’s Mount is a rocky tidal island with a 12th-century mediaeval church and a small, intimate village connected to the island of Marazion by a causeway that visitors can cross on foot during low tide. Blackwater Bay, a sizable body of water at Kings Landing’s edge, is home to House Velaryon, the fictional Driftmark of House of the Dragon, which is housed in the island’s main fortress. A prior appearance of Driftmark occurred in the Battle of the Blackwater in Game of Thrones.

La Calahorra, Granada, Spain

Reimagined as Pentos, one of the cities bordering the seas of Westeros, the imaginary continent at the heart of the world of Game of Thrones, is the municipality La Calahorra in eastern Granada. At the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, on the solitary hill in the region, lies a mediaeval fortress known as Castillo de La Calahorra, one of the region’s most iconic monuments. The exterior of the castle, which serves as the seat of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon, defies the rules of Gothic design, making it one of the first buildings in Spain to be influenced by the Renaissance between 1509 and 1512. Its exquisite split-level interior features a centre courtyard, four corner towers, and marble.

Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain

The province of Cáceres, in western Spain, is a veritable time capsule. Ancient structures that date back hundreds of years nevertheless look substantially the same, displaying a variety of architectural influences, such as Roman, Moorish, and Gothic. Several locations in the region were used to film the King’s Landing sequences, including the walled city of Plasencia in season one, Trujillo in season two, and the capital city of Cáceres in both seasons.

Bourne Wood in Farnham, England

Bourne Wood was the location of one of the largest fight scenes from season two of House of the Dragon. Large clearings in the forest make it perfect for expansive combat scenes and large film crews, while the absence of newer, more contemporary buildings or power lines gives the location a timeless sense. According to London Cult’s documentation, the forest was outfitted with a tent camp and certain areas were covered in artificial snow. The woodland is about an hour’s drive away, making the setting very handy for films like House of the Dragon that are headquartered out of the Warner Bros. Leavesden studio.

Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country, Spain

An island in Biscay called Gaztelugatxe has a hermitage that goes back to the tenth century. The iconic stone bridge was used for filming House of the Dragon. In season seven, the islet served as a stand-in for Dragonstone during filming for Game of Thrones. the location of the initial season’s encounter between Rhaenyra and her dragon on Dragonstone Bridge.

 

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Essential Summer Travel Bag Must-Haves

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As the summer sun beckons, it’s time to dust off your travel bags and embark on exciting adventures. Whether you’re jetting off to exotic destinations or exploring hidden gems closer to home, packing the right essentials can make all the difference in ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey. Join me as we explore the must-have items to pack in your travel bags for a memorable summer getaway.

Sun Protection Essentials:

Beat the heat and safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays with sun protection essentials. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. Additionally, lip balm with SPF and aloe vera gel can provide relief from sunburns and keep your lips hydrated.

Lightweight Clothing Options:

Embrace the spirit of summer with lightweight and breathable clothing options that keep you cool and comfortable on your travels. Pack versatile pieces such as cotton shirts, shorts, flowy dresses, and swimsuits for beach outings. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize the need for ironing and save space in your luggage.

Hydration Essentials:

Stay hydrated on the go by packing a reusable water bottle in your travel bag. Fill it up whenever you have access to clean drinking water to quench your thirst and reduce plastic waste. Consider packing electrolyte packets or tablets to replenish lost minerals during outdoor activities or hot weather.

Travel-Friendly Toiletries:

Travel toiletries in clear plastic, quart-sized bag on white background

Streamline your toiletry bag with travel-sized essentials that meet TSA regulations and save space in your luggage. Pack items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and moisturizer in leak-proof containers. Don’t forget to include a compact travel towel and wet wipes for quick refreshment on the go.

Tech Gadgets and Accessories:

Capture unforgettable moments and stay connected with essential tech gadgets and accessories. Pack your smartphone, camera, or GoPro along with chargers, power banks, and adapters for international travel. Consider investing in a lightweight and portable Bluetooth speaker for impromptu beach parties or outdoor picnics.

First Aid Kit and Medications:

Home first aid kit on a blue background. The elements of the first aid kit are laid out on the table.

Be prepared for minor emergencies and health-related issues by packing a well-stocked first aid kit in your travel bag. Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you may need during your trip.

With these essential items packed in your travel bag, you’re ready to embark on a summer adventure filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From sun protection essentials to tech gadgets and first aid supplies, being prepared for every situation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey wherever your travels may take you. So, grab your bags, soak up the sun, and let the summer adventures begin!

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