Sunday, March 30, 2025

144 Years in the Making: My Journey to the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

 The opportunity to attend the Maha Kumbh Mela, which occurs only once every 144 years, Once-in-a-lifetime experience that I couldn't pass up. This grand event, renowned as the largest gathering of pilgrims in the world, is a chance to immerse oneself in spiritual purification and communal devotion. Little did I know that this trip in February 2025 would become a profound chapter in my life.

The Journey Begins

On the eve of Sankranti, I returned to my hometown for the celebrations, where my father expressed his desire to attend the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. He suggested that I apply for Tatkal tickets, as the regular tickets were in a waiting list. I tried my best to secure Tatkal tickets but was unable to succeed. As a result, my father's plans changed, and he ultimately decided not to go to Prayagraj. Upon returning to Hyderabad from my Sankranti vacation, I began to hear the buzz and excitement surrounding the trending Maha Kumbh Mela. Little did I know that my manager, Ram, would later ask me if I had plans to attend the Mela. I consented to go with him, and soon the entire team joined in, with Avinash, Sonali, and Yehwanth excited to accompany us.

Our plan: Travel on February 22nd and 23rd, 2025. We booked our flights from Hyderabad to Delhi and then made arrangements to travel by bus to Prayagraj. However, the news reports warned of heavy traffic and bus cancellations, so we started searching for alternatives.

Fortunately, my uncle came to the rescue and arranged for an Ertiga car for us. Our neighbor Siva also decided to join us, so we booked him a ticket as well. Despite some last-minute hesitations (Avinash had a newborn), it was finally just Ram, Yeshwanth, Siva, and me setting out on this adventure.

Day of Departure

On the morning of February 22nd, we booked a cab from my apartment to Hyderabad International Airport. Arriving by 6:30 AM, we checked in and had a wonderful chat while waiting for our flight, which took off on time and landed in Delhi at 10:30 AM.

Ram had a plan to visit Baba Bhaironath Temple, where he wished to offer liquor in gratitude for resolving some ongoing court issues. After navigating the Delhi Metro, we reached Pragati Maidan, where our driver Lalith was waiting. We rushed to the temple and made it just before it closed, receiving blessings that invigorated our spirits.

The Road to Prayagraj

After a quick chat outside the temple, we resumed our journey. We made a brief stop in Noida to visit Ram's friend who is doing his PhD and enjoyed some tea. Continuing onward, we stopped for lunch at Shiv Dhaba, relishing delicious North Indian cuisine.

However, the road became treacherous due to heavy traffic. We eventually reached Kanpur around 11 PM, made a dinner stop, and battled through one last rush that held our progress for two full hours. By 7 AM, we were merely 12 kilometers from Prayagraj, where we had to park our vehicle and start the final leg of our journey on foot or by bike.

Kumbh Mela: This grand festival takes place every 12 years at four different locations and attracts millions of pilgrims for the ritualistic significance of bathing in sacred rivers to cleanse sins and attain salvation. The sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati at Triveni Sangam is where many come to purify their souls.

Triveni Sangam

Faced with the choice of walking or taking a bike, we decided to hire bikes at a charge of 400-500 rupees per person. After a 40-minute ride, we finally set our sights on the sacred Ghat, where Ram's idea of taking a boat to Triveni Sangam materialized.

Despite initial difficulties finding the right path, we eventually got to the boat club. After some bargaining, we hired a boat for a hefty price due to the rush. However, the experience of bathing in the Ganga was beyond words—it felt like fulfilling a lifelong dream.

After our sacred bathing at Sangam, we received a call about a darshan opportunity in Ayodhya, so we planned to rush there. Following a long ride back to the parking area (marked by heavy traffic and a frustrating delay), we decided that Ayodhya might not be achievable and opted for Vrindavan as our next destination.

Vrindavan: The Birthplace of Krishna

Arriving in Vrindavan at 3 AM, we checked into a hotel Ram had arranged. After resting, we headed out to visit the birthplace of Lord Krishna at the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple. The atmosphere was electric, filled with divine energy despite the queues. This temple is significant not only for its historical relevance but also for its devotion, marking the origins of Lord Krishna's life.

Following this, we visited Dwarkadhish Temple, near the banks of the Yamuna. After receiving blessings here, we made our way toward Mathura, intent on visiting the Banke Bihari Mandir. We nearly missed the closing time, but with divine intervention, we made it just in time, feeling grateful for the experience.

Historical Significance of Temples

  • Krishna Janmabhoomi: Located in Mathura, this temple is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a significant figure in Hindu mythology known for his divine play and philosophical teachings in the Bhagavad Gita.

  • Dwarkadhish Temple: This temple in Vrindavan is dedicated to Lord Krishna, showcasing exquisite architecture and beautiful celebrations immersed in devotion.

  • Banke Bihari Mandir: Located in Vrindavan, this shrine is famed for its incredible ambiance, drawing in devotees who seek connection with Krishna through devotion and song.

Journey’s End

After a fulfilling series of experiences, we finally returned to the airport by 5 PM to catch our flight back to Hyderabad, which was slightly delayed. Arriving home at 1 AM, we all shared tales of the moments we had witnessed together—filled with memories of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the spirituality of our journey.

This trip to Kumbh Mela and the sacred sites around it filled our hearts with joy, peace, and a sense of unity with our shared heritage. The experiences we gathered together have left an indelible mark on our lives, one that we hope to pass down through generations.

Monday, March 24, 2025

Unplanned Adventure: Exploring Chikmagalur and Beyond

My kids completed their exams and headed off to their grandparents' house with my wife. With some free time on my hands, my friend Srinivas, who is also single in Banglore, invited me to explore Kellady in Kerala. Fortunately, I was able to request some time off work, and my manager approved my plan. Thus began my spontaneous and thrilling trip to Chikmagalur.

Journey Begins

I set out on a Tuesday from Hyderabad to Bangalore by bus, choosing Go and Tour Travels. I boarded the bus in Bachupally at the scheduled time and arrived in Bangalore at 7 AM, where Srinivas picked me up. After a quick catch-up at the office and sharing the plan with my colleagues Venkat and Latheesh, they expressed interest in joining our trip.

Initially planning to visit Arunachalam and Puducherry, we decided to pivot towards Hampi. However, the extreme weather drove us to change our route and seek out Chikmagalur instead.

Discovering Chikmagalur

Latheeh drove us in his Hyundai Creta. The spaciousness of the car made our ride comfortable, allowing us to relax and take in the scenic views along the way.

On Friday evening, around 5 PM, we embarked on our journey from Electronic City towards Hassan, excited to sample authentic local cuisine. The locals had suggested Mamatha Restaurant, but unfortunately, it was closed. Instead, we settled for Reshma Restaurant, where we enjoyed a delightful meal of mutton, fish, and chicken. Everything was absolutely delicious!

Mutton Biryani

Chicken chops
Fish fry

After dinner, we reached Belur and took an AC room at Samanvi International Lodge for ₹2100.

Bellur: A Marvel of Architecture

On Saturday morning, we awoke and headed to the famous Chennakesava Temple in Belur by around 10 AM.

History and Architecture of Chennakesava Temple

Garuda at Bellur Temple

The Chennakesava Temple, a stunning example of Hoysala architecture, was built in the 12th century and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The intricate carvings depict tales from Hindu mythology, showcasing the immense artistic skill of the period. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its star-shaped design and detailed sculptures. The detailed craftsmanship is evident in its soapstone structure, particularly in its ornate ceilings, facades, and sculptures of deities.


After our visit, we enjoyed some refreshing sugarcane juice outside the Chennakesava Temple in Belur and had breakfast in the Belur town center. We then planned for some water sports near the Bhadra Dam, but the intense heat that day led us to decide to postpone the adventure for another time.

Exploring the Architectural Marvels of Halebidu

Continuing our journey, we made our way to Halebidu, Karnataka, a site that showcases architectural beauty akin to that of Belur. The Hoysaleswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands as an exquisite example of Hoysala architecture. Built in the 12th century by the Hoysala dynasty under the reign of King Vishnuvardhana, this temple was constructed to commemorate his victory over the Cholas.

Renowned for its intricate sculptures and detailed carvings, the temple depicts various deities, mythological scenes, and elements of daily life, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark. As we entered the temple, we were blessed with a serene darshan, allowing us to deeply appreciate the craftsmanship and devotion embedded within its walls.










As we left, the weather shifted dramatically, providing a much-needed respite from the heat and further enhancing our experience at this remarkable site.

Belavadi Temple

Next, we visited the Belavadi temple, reaching there around 3:20 PM. We learned that the temple would not open for darshan until 4 PM, and it is managed by the Sringeri Sarada Math. The visit was worth the wait, as we had a blissful darshan of Veeranarayana Swamy, Venugopala Swamy, and Sri Yoga Narasimha Swamy. The tranquility of the temple and the mesmerizing idols left us awestruck.







After visiting the Udbhava Ganapathi temple nearby, we enjoyed some tea and made our way back to the hotel, checking out at 6 PM after ordering some delicious food.

The Homestay at Chikmagalur

We then headed to Chikmagalur, with Latheesh sharing recommendations from friends about a place called "Estate Homestay," nestled in lush greenery. The ambience was stunning, complete with a campfire and options for tea or coffee. Each per-person charge was ₹800, which felt reasonable for such a remarkable setting. While summer is avoidable here, the rest of the season is highly recommended.

Arriving at the homestay by 8:30 PM, we requested a campfire and ordered food using Zomato and Swiggy. After a stimulating evening filled with discussions, we called it a night around 2 AM.

Campfire @Estate Homestay, Chikmagluru

In addition to these beautiful spots, we stumbled upon a gem for spices located in MG Road, Chikmagalur: Spice Shop on Map.

All of these locations are surrounded by charming homestays, and I highly recommend checking this place out: Homestay on Map.

If you're planning a trip to Chikmagalur, be sure to visit these spots for a truly memorable experience!

Adventure at Hebbe Falls

The next morning, after coffee and packing, we checked out by 11 AM and headed towards Hebbe Falls. After playing with our snacks on the way, we reached the point leading to the falls. We were met with the sight of four wild boars (indicative of the rich wildlife in the area) and were informed that no private vehicles are allowed since it's part of a Tiger Reserve.

For a nominal charge of ₹600 per person, we could access Hebbe Falls. The off-road experience was thrilling, and the final trek of about one kilometer to reach the falls was invigorating.

The Mesmerizing Falls

Reaching the falls felt like a refreshing reward after a good hike. The chilly water was simply energizing, and we took a liberating dip, enjoying every moment. Our driver instructed us to take about an hour to enjoy the falls fully, and we made sure to return on time before heading back to Bangalore.

Conclusion: A Thrilling Return

After enjoying the beauty of nature, we began our journey back to Bangalore around 4 PM. We made a stop for a light lunch before navigating through changed routes and heavy traffic. We finally reached Electronic City around 11:20 PM, where we relished a satisfying dinner at Areseney Donne Biryani.

Latheesh dropped me at my place while Venkat and Latheesh returned home by 12:30 AM. This trip to Chikmagalur, although unplanned, turned out to be an adventurous and memorable experience filled with exploration, culture, and friendship.

Map & Information for Travelers

If you're planning a visit to Chikmagalur or the surrounding areas, check out Google Maps for the best routes, local eateries, and accommodations. Do keep an eye on the weather and try to avoid summer for a more pleasant experience!

Thursday, November 14, 2024

A Spiritual Day Trip to Tanjore and Srirangam During Kartika Maasa

 Last week was an adventurous yet spiritual journey for me. Initially, I had planned to join my team’s workshop in Bangalore, followed by a weekend trek to Netravathi. However, unexpected forest clearance issues canceled the trek, leaving me to rethink my plans. Spontaneously, I decided to embark on a serene one-day spiritual trip to Tanjore (Thanjavur) and Srirangam, making the most of the auspicious Kartika Maasa.

The Journey Begins

After deciding on Tanjore as my destination, I booked a sleeper ticket with RKT Travels. My colleague, Latheesh, kindly hosted me for dinner, serving a delicious Nellore karam dosa at his home. He also dropped me off at Silk Board near Giriyas showroom to catch the bus, scheduled for 10:15 PM. However, the bus arrived at 10:50 PM. Despite the delay, the excitement of visiting Tanjore kept my spirits high.

The bus reached Tanjore New Bus Stand around 7 AM the next morning. I quickly checked into a nearby hotel, paying ₹1170 for a non-AC room, freshened up, and was ready to explore by 8 AM.

Exploring Tanjore

I decided to visit the renowned Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Big Temple. It was 5 km from the bus stand, and locals suggested either walking or taking a city bus for ₹10. Choosing to walk, I soaked in the charm of Tanjore's streets and reached the temple by 9 AM.

The Majesty of Brihadeeswarar Temple

The Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural marvel built by Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, boasts a massive 216-feet tall vimana (tower) carved from a single granite block. The temple is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Chola dynasty, with intricate sculptures and murals that narrate stories from Hindu mythology. The tranquility and divine energy of the temple left me spellbound as I spent two hours exploring its beauty.

After the visit, I walked to the Old Bus Stand, had a quick breakfast, and boarded a bus to Kumbakonam at 10:30 AM.

Kumbakonam's Sacred Sites

The bus reached Kumbakonam by 12:10 PM. My first stop was the Mahamaham Pond, a holy tank believed to purify devotees during the Mahamaham festival. I then headed towards Kasi Viswanathar Temple and Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, but unfortunately, they were closed due to the timing. Feeling slightly disappointed, I decided to return to Tanjore and continue my journey to Srirangam.

Journey to Srirangam

After reaching Tanjore around 3:20 PM, I took a short nap and recharged my phone before heading to Srirangam via Tiruchirapalli. The bus from Tanjore to Tiruchirapalli cost ₹43, and I reached the CBS by 5:50 PM. From there, a local bus costing ₹11 took me to Srirangam, where I arrived by 6:15 PM.

The Divine Srirangam Temple

The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Spanning over 156 acres, it is the largest functioning Hindu temple in the world. The temple complex is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, featuring intricately carved gopurams (tower gates) and halls. Being a Saturday, the temple was bustling with devotees, but I was fortunate to get a glimpse of the divine darshan of Lord Ranganatha.

Returning to Bangalore

After receiving the blessings of Lord Ranganatha, I headed back to Tiruchirapalli CBS by 9 PM and boarded a bus to Tanjore. At 11 PM, I caught my return bus to Bangalore, concluding my one-day spiritual trip.

Reflections

This spontaneous journey turned out to be a soul-refreshing experience. The divine aura of Brihadeeswarar Temple and Srirangam Temple, combined with the simplicity of Tamil Nadu's culture, left a lasting impression. The architectural brilliance and spiritual energy of these temples are truly mesmerizing, making this trip a memorable one during the holy Kartika Maasa.

For those seeking a day filled with devotion, tranquility, and architectural wonders, Tanjore and Srirangam are perfect destination.

Friday, July 19, 2024

Wanderlust Chronicles: A South Indian Odyssey - Bangalore, Mysore, Madurai, Kodaikanal, and Palani

Introduction

Traveling with friends especially with Hometown friends is always an adventure, and this time it was an unforgettable trip around Bangalore, Mysore, Madurai, Kodai Kanal, and Palani. Our journey began with a change of plans due to the unfavorable weather in Goa, leading us to explore the rich cultural and natural beauty of South India. This blog captures our experiences, the history of the places we visited, and the route we took, offering a guide for fellow travelers.

Blessings from Vaarahi Ammavaru for the tour before starting from Hyderabad.

Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore and Hoganekkal Falls

Starting Point: Hyderabad

I started my journey from Hyderabad, while Ramana and Brahmaji traveled from Rajahmundry by bus. I reached Bangalore's Yeswanthpur station via Garib Rath from Lingampalli. Opting for the metro over a costly cab ride, I headed to Silk Institute Metro and then took an auto to Electronic City for Rs. 250.

Navigating Bangalore:

After getting down from Silk Institute Metro, I tried to book an Auto/Cab, but they were canceling. I checked with one Auto driver, and he helped me to go back by bus to Konan Kunte Cross Metro. From there, many buses were available for Electronic City. I went by metro to Konan Kunte Cross and then booked an Auto which cost me Rs. 250 to reach my destination pragathinagar, Chikkatoggur, Electronic city, Benguluru

Meeting Point: Electronic City

Srinivas picked up Ramana and Brahmaji from Silk Board, and after refreshing ourselves, we planned our trip. Initially considering Gagana Chukki and Bara Chukki waterfalls, we decided to visit Hoganekkal Falls instead.

Hoganekkal Falls Experience

We started at 1 PM and reached Hoganekkal Falls by 4 PM. We took a boat ride costing Rs. 2000, enjoying the scenic beauty despite lower water levels compared to my previous visit in 2010. We indulged in freshly cooked fish, and on our way back to Bangalore, we stopped for delicious snacks like Guntaponganulu. We reached Bangalore by 11 PM and had a pleasant sleep.











Day 2: Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls, Somanathapura, and Mysore Palace

Route: NICE Road to Gagana Chukki and Bara Chukki Falls(Siva Samudra Falls)

We started our journey early and reached Gaganachukki Falls by 12:30 PM. The falls were mesmerising, and after spending some time there, we headed to Somanathapura.









Siva samudra falls

Somanathapura: History and Significance

Somanathapura is home to the Chennakesava Temple, a fine example of Hoysala architecture. Built-in 1268 by Somanatha Dandanayaka, the temple is known for its intricate carvings and detailed sculptures. We visited Somanathapura and enjoyed the beauty of the temple. The small rain made the temple even more colorful.





















                                                   

Mysore Palace and Evening Lights

We reached Mysore Palace by 5 PM, explored its grandeur, and waited for the evening lights show at 7:30 PM. Meanwhile, we visited the Kaveri Emporium to buy sandalwood products. Venkat, Srinivas' brother, joined us for dinner, but the famous RRR biryani turned out to be disappointing.

                                     

Inside Palace

                                                       


Lightening Palace










Golden Darbar










                                                   
                                          
Stayed Hotel @Mysuru
                                                      
                                            

Day 3: Chamundi Hills and Madurai

Chamundi Hills: History and Significance

Chamundi Hills is famous for the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the guardian deity of Mysore. The temple is a significant site during the Dasara festival. We started our day early and completed our darshan by 8:40 AM.



Chamundeshwari Temple @Mysuru

Journey to Madurai

We decided to visit Madurai instead of Kodaikanal first, reaching Meenakshi Sundareswaran Temple by 5 PM. The temple, an architectural marvel, took us around 2 hours to explore. We enjoyed the local specialty Jigarthanda and had dinner at A2B Aanada Adyar Bhavan before resting for the night. We had a traditional South Indian Thali for lunch. We parked at the parking complex, deposited our phones in the locker, and had a great darshan.

  • Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple: History and Significance

    • The Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, also known as Meenakshi Amman Temple, is one of the largest and most ancient temples in India, located in the heart of Madurai. This architectural marvel was built by King Kulasekara Pandya in the 6th century BC and was later expanded by Nayak rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries.
    • The temple complex is spread over 15 acres and comprises 14 gopurams (gateway towers), with the tallest one being the southern tower, standing at 170 feet. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and her consort, Lord Sundareswarar (a form of Shiva). The thousand-pillar hall, known as the Ayirakkal Mandapam, is a significant attraction, showcasing intricate sculptures and artwork.
    • The Meenakshi Temple follows a traditional Dravidian style of architecture, characterized by its towering gopurams adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures depicting various deities, mythological figures, and animals. The temple's layout symbolizes a mandala, with concentric squares and sanctums representing the universe and the divine center.

      Madurai Temple

Day 4: Koodal Azhagar Temple and Kodaikanal

Koodal Azhagar Temple: History and Significance

This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in a sitting posture, showcasing exquisite Dravidian architecture. After a peaceful darshan, we headed towards Kodaikanal.

Exploring Kodaikanal

We applied for an E-pass for Kodaikanal, which was required at the Nilagiri Hills Checkpost. In Madurai, we stopped at Gowri Hotel for breakfast and enjoyed onion Vada, Idly, Dosa, and Filter Coffee. We dropped Vamsi at the Outer Ringroad of Madurai and headed towards Kodaikanal.The journey through Nilgiri Hills was beautiful, and we reached Kodaikanal by 1 PM. We visited Guna Caves, various viewpoints, and finally Kodaikanal Lake. Ramana and I enjoyed a bicycle ride around the lake. We found a comfortable room and had a relaxing night.  








Our Chariot





Near Guna Caves....Kothapeta Boys!!!

Near kodaikanal lake


 

Day 5: Palani and Return to Bangalore

Palani: History and Significance

Palani is renowned for the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan. We climbed the hill and had a serene darshan. After a delicious meal at a local Brahmin hotel, we started our journey back to Bangalore, reaching by night. Our initial plan was to go to Palani, then next to Coimbatore, Ooty, Bandipur Forest, and back to Bangalore. We shopped for homemade chocolates in Kodaikanal and started our journey to Palani. After realizing that the rope car would take 2 hours, we decided to climb the hill by walking. We had a great darshan and a delicious meal at a nearby Brahmin hotel.

On the Way 2 Palani





 

Day 6: Shopping and Departure

Shopping in Bangalore

We visited SP Road for electronic items, followed by a quick lunch of Meghana biryanis. I boarded my train from Yeswanthpur at 4:15 PM, reaching home the next day by 5 AM. We shopped at SP Road for electronic items for kids. A shop person suggested we visit Ratnakar for kids' toys, where we found almost everything we needed. Our plan was to visit Shivaji Military Hotel in Jayanagar, but time did not permit.

Conclusion

This trip, filled with laughter, adventure, and spiritual experiences, will always hold a special place in our hearts. The route maps and experiences shared here will hopefully assist fellow travelers in planning their journeys. Having a trip with friends creates lifelong memories, and this journey was no exception. The historical insights, route maps, and experiences shared here aim to assist fellow travelers in planning their adventures.


Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore and Hoganekkal Falls

  • Journey Begins:

    • I reached Bangalore Yeswanthpur station from Lingampalli by Garib Rath.
    • Opted for metro to Silk Institute, then took an auto to Electronic City for Rs. 250.
  • Meeting with Friends:

    • Srinivas picked up Ramana and Brahmaji from Silk Board.
    • Planned to visit Gagana Chukki and Bara Chukki Falls but decided on Hoganekkal Falls instead.
  • Hoganekkal Falls Experience:

    • Started at 1 PM, reached by 4 PM.
    • Enjoyed a boat ride costing Rs. 2500 along with tip to boatmen.
    • Indulged in freshly cooked fish.
    • Returned to Bangalore by 11 PM after a snack stop.

Day 2: Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls, Somanathapura, and Mysore Palace

  • Journey:

    • Started early, reached Gaganachukki Falls by 12:30 PM.
    • Headed to Somanathapura after enjoying the falls.
  • Somanathapura:

    • Visited the Chennakesava Temple, an example of Hoysala architecture.
    • Enjoyed the beauty of the temple. The small rain made the temple even more colorful.
  • Mysore Palace:

    • Reached by 5 PM.
    • Explored the palace and waited for the evening lights show.
    • Visited Kaveri Emporium.
    • Met Srinivas' brother Venkat and had dinner. The RRR biryani was a disappointment and a waste of money.

Day 3: Chamundi Hills and Madurai

  • Chamundi Hills:

    • Visited Chamundeshwari Temple, completed darshan by 8:40 AM.
  • Journey to Madurai:

    • Reached Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple by 5 PM.
    • Explored the temple, enjoyed Jigarthanda and dinner at A2B Aanada Adyar Bhavan.
    • Had a traditional South Indian Thali for lunch.
    • Parked at the parking complex, deposited our phones in the locker, and had a great darshan.

Day 4: Koodal Azhagar Temple and Kodaikanal

  • Koodal Azhagar Temple:

    • This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in a sitting posture, showcasing exquisite Dravidian architecture.
    • After a peaceful darshan, we headed towards Kodaikanal.
  • Exploring Kodaikanal:

    • The journey through Nilgiri Hills was beautiful, and we reached Kodaikanal by 1 PM.
    • Visited Guna Caves, various viewpoints, and finally Kodaikanal Lake.
    • Enjoyed a bicycle ride around the lake.
    • Found a comfortable room and had a relaxing night.
    • In Madurai, stopped at Gowri Hotel for breakfast and enjoyed onion Vada, Idly, Dosa, and Filter Coffee.
    • Dropped Vamsi at the Outer Ringroad of Madurai and headed towards Kodaikanal.
    • Applied for an E-pass for Kodaikanal, which was required at the Nilagiri Hills Checkpost.

Day 5: Palani and Return to Bangalore

  • Palani:

    • Visited Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple.
    • Climbed the hill for darshan.
    • Enjoyed a meal at a local Brahmin hotel.
    • Started journey back to Bangalore, reaching by night.
  • Journey Back:

    • Initial plan was to go to Palani, then next to Coimbatore, Ooty, Bandipur Forest, and back to Bangalore.
    • Shopped for homemade chocolates in Kodai Kanal and started the journey to Palani.
    • Realized that the rope car would take 2 hours, decided to climb the hill on walking.
    • Had a great darshan and a delicious meal at a nearby Brahmin hotel.

Day 6: Shopping and Departure

  • Shopping in Bangalore:

    • Visited SP Road for electronic items.
    • Followed by a quick lunch of Meghana biryanis.
    • Boarded train from Yeswanthpur at 4:15 PM, reaching home the next day by 5 AM.
  • Additional Shopping:

    • Shopped at SP Road for electronic items for kids.
    • A shop person suggested visiting Ratnakar for kids' toys, where we found almost everything we needed.
    • Planned to visit Shivaji Military Hotel in Jayanagar, but time did not permit.



Route Maps and Tips for Fellow Travelers

  • Bangalore to Hoganekkal Falls: Via NH44 and NH77, approximately 126 km.
  • Bangalore to Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls: Via NICE Road and NH948, approximately 130 km.
  • Somanathapura to Mysore: Approximately 36 km.
  • Mysore to Chamundi Hills: Approximately 13 km.
  • Mysore to Madurai: Via NH44, approximately 435 km.
  • Madurai to Kodaikanal: Via NH44 and SH156, approximately 116 km.
  • Kodaikanal to Palani: Via Kodai Ghat Road, approximately 63 km.
  • Palani to Bangalore: Via NH44, approximately 366 km.

    Conclusion

    This trip, filled with laughter, adventure, and spiritual experiences, will always hold a special place in our hearts. The route maps and experiences shared here will hopefully assist fellow travelers in planning their journeys. Having a trip with friends creates lifelong memories, and this journey was no exception. The historical insights, route maps, and experiences shared here aim to assist fellow travelers in planning their adventures.

















144 Years in the Making: My Journey to the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

  The opportunity to attend the Maha Kumbh Mela, which occurs only once every 144 years, O nce-in-a-lifetime experience that I couldn't ...