Travel Notes Archives

…more beautiful places around Melbourne

Jaspal Singh - 29 July 2021

Updated on September 8th, 2024

If you are planning a tour for two or three days, you can add Grampians National park and Ballarat and Sovereign hills as both destinations fall on the same route if you are going from Melbourne. At 235 km west of Melbourne, Grampians National park is an oasis of diversity, having an abundance of things to see and do, including Aboriginal art sites, bushwalking, wine-tasting, native wildlife spotting, waterfalls, and mountains. Other activities in the Grampians include cycling, rock climbing, and fishing. The Grampians are also home to many kangaroos, koalas, emus, and so many birds. There are so many stunning lookouts and free-flowing waterfalls, all adding to the region’s natural beauty. A wide range of recreational activities like bushwalking, rock climbing, horse riding, fishing, and bird watching can make your trip memorable.

Ararat: A Beautiful Town

If driving from Melbourne, head towards the gold mining town of Ballarat through the Western Freeway; Ararat is the next important destination on the way. It is an attractive and old gold mining town. A Chinese discovered gold here in 1857, and soon, people shifted here, and this town came into being. After finding of goldmines, this place turned into a boomtown that continued till the beginning of the 20th century. Ararat is surrounded by several mountain ranges, including Grampians National Park, Mount Langi Ghiran, Mount Cole, Mount Buangor, Ararat Hills Regional Park, and the Pyrenees Ranges. All this makes Ararat an ideal base for visiting these natural attractions. There are so many wineries in the surrounding of Ararat. If you are in your vehicle, you can stop for a while and taste different wines.

Halls Gap

Another beautiful place near Ararat is Halls gap which provides an ideal base for exploring the region. It is famous for fine dining while you are in the area. There are several motels, hotels, and caravan parks in town providing accommodations if you are staying for few days in Grampians Park. Waterfalls are another attraction of this region. McKenzie Falls is one of the best waterfalls, which attracts tourists. Halls Gap is home to Aboriginal Cultural Centre. In the picturesque township of Halls Gap, there are so many restaurants catering to fine dining. You can also enjoy the use of the Halls Gap swimming pool in the summer months.

Sky High, Melbourne — *Night View of Sky High. Glittering Lights of Melbourne city are visible on one side.*

Dandenong Ranges

Like the Grampians region, another destination with abundant opportunities to be close to nature is the Dandenong ranges. Just at 35 km east of Melbourne, it can be your party time destination whenever you feel. Dandenong has an abundance of beautiful things where you can escape to breathtaking beauties. The scenic attractions of Dandenong are outstanding, and you can’t stop yourself praising them. Enjoying nature, exploring wildlife, and other outdoor activities like walking, hiking, cycling, golf, and camping can be your favourite things to do in Dandenong. Several locations throughout the ranges offer excellent views. Mt Dandenong provides you with a beautiful skyline from where you can see the whole of Melbourne city. Fairytale-like forest makes the entire region a perfect destination for a romantic weekend.

For nature lovers and outdoor adventures, this place is like heaven. As it is just on the doorstep of Melbourne, I used to go there frequently. You can experience nature by cycling, walking, skiing, camping, golfing, ballooning, and other outdoor activities. You can also disappear in a mystical forest to breathe more fresh air, to see the beauty of birds, listen to the sound of thundering waterfalls. This place is also known for its flair with food and atmospheric eating-places like tearooms and restaurants with stunning views. Being a popular destination for weddings, Dandenong has many things to make you more romantic.

Sky High is a popular restaurant where you can arrange your romantic dates with your partner. This place is Melbourne’s unique ‘special occasions‘ venue. You can enjoy your day at this beautiful place. A deep forest surrounds beautifully landscaped gardens where you can sit and enjoy different cuisines with coffee or wine. After sunset, you can see Melbourne’s skyline from the heights of Dandenong. The glittering lights of the city seem like stars and diamonds glowing from one horizon to another.

Puffing Billy Train

Dandenong ranges are full of wonders and excitement. The famous Puffing Billy Railway, a steam engine tourist railway, runs through the southern parts of the Dandenong. Just 40 km east of Melbourne, this fantastic steam train runs every day except Christmas Day from Belgrave to Lakeside and Gembrook. Throughout the whole track, the train passes through scenic forests and breathtaking views.

Puffing Billy is now a major tourist attraction. You may plan your one-day picnic trip to this place. Hanging your legs outside or wrapping arms over the window safety bars, you can feel fresh air on your face.

The trestle bridge is a famous point on this track. Its timber bridge is having 15 spans, 91.4 m and 12.8 m in height. It offers a thrilling feeling when the train passes on this bridge.

Lakeside (Emerald Lake) is a usual stoppage of the train to fill the locomotive water tanks. This place is lovely to spend a few hours in the surrounding forest, a gigantic pool with paddle boats, tracks for pleasant walks, and some cafes around.

The Puffing Billy Railway line has been in operation since 1900. This train was used to transport vegetables, fruits, and other farming goods in the early days.

Puffing Billy Train Route — *Train Route from Belgrave to Gembrook*

Phillip Island

Mt Buller, Phillip Island, Yarra Valley wineries, and Great ocean road are a few more important destinations you can’t miss visiting.

Phillip Island, situated approximately 130 km southeast of Melbourne, is a major tourist destination, attracting surfers to its beaches. We know Phillip Island for its coastal scenery, best surfing conditions, and world-famous penguin parade. It’s the world’s largest colony of little penguins. Thousands of little penguins emerge from the sea with sunset, march across the beach to their dune burrows.

The day I visited this place with my friend, it was drizzling and freezing. They made fenced platforms from where you can see moving penguins. I still feel the romance of waiting for little penguins. Thundering sea, darkness and drizzling were making those moments really memorable. As we did not have an umbrella, we were covering our self with our long jackets. Suddenly few little penguins appeared from the sea, and in a few moments, there was a full parade of thousands of penguins. It was really amazing to see them moving towards their natural shelters.

As a whole, the surrounds of Melbourne have an abundance of things to see and to do. I am in love with this city. I wish to be there soon. Not once, but again and again.

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Williamstown Beach: where my heart takes me

Jaspal Singh - 4 July 2021

Updated on May 26th, 2023

I took the title of this article from someone’s blog on Melbourne Experiences. Once again, my memories got refreshed, and I shared my impressions here. I visited Williamstown Beach a few years back. Despite that, I feel it’s a tale of yesterday. During my stay in Melbourne, it was my favorite place to spend time, whenever I felt to relax my soul and mind. I have seen different moods of nature there, like color-changing horizons, different shapes of clouds, and thundering waves. Quoting someone, I will say, the sea does not reward those who are too anxious, too greedy, or too impatient. One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach – waiting for a gift from the sea’.

Williamstown Beach is located where the Yarra River enters Hobsons Bay and Port Phillip in the southwest of Melbourne. They originally developed this beach as an industrial port to serve the needs of those days. Now it is one of the most beautiful beaches around Melbourne with a lot of scenic beauty.

Williamstown Beach Station — *Williamstown Beach station*

Whether you live near or far from the ocean, river, or lake, hearing the name of the beach makes you full of enthusiasm, and many things come to your mind. I heard one popular saying, ‘If you’re lucky enough to be at the beach…then you’re lucky enough’ Life and nature are always together on the beach. No matter how upset and down you feel, visiting the beach can make you full of life once again. In every drop of water and every blow of breeze, there is a story of life. All this is true for Williamstown Beach as well.

Pleasant weather, clean water, and soft sand make this beach a nice place to spend time. In a few words, I will say that this beach is a fantastic place to be there and, if you like, for immersing yourself in the water with someone you really love. It will give you a wonderful life experience that you will never forget. A feeling of calmness invades your soul, and over time, it goes firmer and deeper in memories.

Sunset at Williamtown beach — *Sunset time @ Williams Town Beach*

As a nature lover, here you will get all to make your visit a really memorable moment. The beach is around 550 m long, surrounded by water from three sides. The eastern shoreline comprises foreshore reserves dotted with piers, gardens, and remnants of Williamstown’s maritime history.

If you are not interested in going out and swimming, there is a bar facing the beach, where you can sit and enjoy the sea view. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants as well, where you can enjoy coffee and other things. Ice cream and meal shops will make your trip really enjoyable. The Williamstown Swimming and Surf Life Saving Club, formed in 1922, is at the western end next to the Baths.

During summers, this place remains full of people of all ages enjoying swimming and relaxing in the sun on the sandy beach, whereas during winter days people come here for a walk and enjoy calm and peace to relax their minds. During summer days, you can see people there doing different fun activities. You can plan a picnic with your family and kids. You will find people making sandcastles, playing volleyball, collecting seashells, taking picture shots, relaxing on beach chairs, and making beach tents. Going for a picnic at Williamstown will make another day in paradise.

Williamstown is a 30-minute train journey from Flinders Street Station, the last station on the Williamstown line. Railways station there has two platforms opening on opposite sides, and the beach is just a 5-minute walking distance away from the station.

I read somewhere that you can also reach Williamstown if you catch a ferry from Melbourne. I feel it would be a great journey passing through downtown Melbourne and the Yarra River, finally changing to a broad shipping yard. Ferries from Melbourne’s Southgate Arts & Leisure Precinct take approximately 1 hour.

I wish to have a ferry ride on my next trip to Melbourne. Be sure to make Williamstown Beach your first place to visit when you are in Melbourne and when you go out to explore Melbourne Beaches. I will end this article by saying that Williamstown Beach has everything to refresh your mind, body, and spirit. Keep visiting this outstanding place whenever you get time. I will write more on Melbourne Beaches.

Williamstown Beach, 18th April 2023

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A Mystical Journey in the hills & woods: Kedarnath

Jaspal Singh - 24 May 2021

Updated on September 7th, 2024

The gladdest moment in human life is a departure into unknown lands, and I believe travelling to different places like Kedarnath makes you more full of life, but these days we all face a controlled lifestyle imposed on us because of lockdowns. No doubt it is there for the safety of people, and we must follow it, but still staying indoors, within the boundaries of the house for months is not very easy to adopt a lifestyle. In such a situation, planning a trip, even in-country, needs careful research to avoid any hassle during your journey. Few states keep on imposing travel restrictions. Some others may have imposed night curfews.

I started my travel blog with this line to make you aware that complete information on your travel plans, stay & accommodations are essential these days. During lockdown last year in November, we planned a trip to the divine temple of Kedarnath, which is one of the most famous Shiva temples in India. Few family friends planned this trip. Initially, I did not have any plan to join, but when they asked, I agreed as I heard and read many descriptions on Shiv Sutra, especially narrated by OSHO.

Another excellent read on this is ‘The Shiv Sutra, in my understanding’ by V. Susan Ferguson. Shiva Sutras are scriptures that help a seeker on the spiritual path to embark on an inward journey towards the self. We believe these sutras connect the individual to his core and to the larger cosmos or the universal soul. We also say it is the ultimate God.

Shiva Sutras is a collection of seventy-seven aphorisms that form spiritual mysticism known as Kashmir Shaivism. The Shiva Sutras and the ensuing school of Kashmir Shaivism are a tantric tradition. Tantrics saw themselves as independent of the Vedic mainstream schools of thought and practice and beyond the rules put in place by them. This is somewhere science of mind. Today, experts of human psychology are testifying those principles laid centuries ago. I had an inner zeal to know and connect myself to the place I travel, and all this was the core reason for my going to this great place.

If we talk about the route to Kedarnath, go to Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and finally Gourikund. We started from my place in Jalandhar in a hired taxi and reached Rishikesh via Haridwar and planned our first night to stay there. It was late evening when we reached and booked our stay in a hotel. Although it was an excellent hotel, it was clear from occupancy, maintenance, and other things that the hotel industry is worst affected in the COVID era. Guests were mostly in transit, those who had to extend their stay because of the lockdown. Few Hotels in Rishikesh are really offering the best services to visitors.

Here I am talking about the situation of November 2020. I think it is still struggling for survival amid COVID lockdowns. Let’s pray for better days soon.

The second day we started our trip around 9 am, and we expected to reach our destination by the evening, but we took the wrong path and travelled towards Tehri, and it prolonged the journey for few hours. No doubt it delayed our journey, despite that we enjoyed it. Beautiful Kunds with small multiple falls look so picturesque, we stopped for a while and clicked few snaps. The river view by the side of the road was so beautiful that it hypnotizes your senses. The continuous water flows striking the surrounding rocks, making big water flow sounds, can easily mesmerize one. It is a beautiful route while going to Gangotri. I really feel that it’s worth going there again and again.

We reached Gourikund late at night but anyhow managed our stay in some guest house. Fully exhausted, we just had available food and slept to wake up the next morning. Gaurikund is a place known as the starting point of the walking journey towards Kedarnath. Kedarnath Temple is approx. 17 km by track from here. Budget and cheap hotels and guest houses are available in Gauri Kund. We also stayed in one guest house. It was a very basic stay but excellent in hospitality and homely food. In Gaurikund, one can take a bath in naturally hot water. According to the legends, Goddess Parvati meditated over here to marry Lord Shiva. There are so many springs that offer refreshing baths before starting the holy journey up to Kedarnath Temple.

One must keep in mind that up-down in one day is not possible by track (walk), so check your fitness first and plan your trip as you may also face low oxygen during the track towards Kedarnath, so people bring a substance ‘Kapoor’ along with them, it helps in breathing. The easiest and most convenient way to reach the temple is by helicopter. If you are looking to cut down travel time or travel with someone who cannot walk too much, this is the best way to go to the temple. It’s just a 5-7 minutes’ flight to reach the temple. Flights start from different points, even from Dehradun, from where it takes 40-45 minutes to reach. Although an expensive option you will have experienced the visit to one of the wonderful & spiritual place, also it will cut down your travel time. We preferred this option on our journey.

Although many things, including old tracks, bridges and private properties, got damaged during a massive natural disaster flood in 2013, and also it costed a death toll of over 5000. As life always finds reasons to continue, new tracks and other facilities like new bridges, resting sheds, they again constructed small shops for visitors.

Being in the travel industry, I have had opportunities to travel to many exciting places in India and abroad as well, both on the professional and personal front. However, this trip of mine was one of the best ones.

Kedarnath temple is at the height of over 3500 meters from sea level, so this is the highest Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The nearest river flowing near Kedarnath temple is Mandakini coming from the snow-covered mountains. As we preferred a helicopter for reaching the temple, it was also a glorious experience. Reaching the helipad on the premises of the temple, you can’s stop your wow feeling. It’s like you landed somewhere in dreamland or somewhere in heaven.

Taking about the mythological history of the Kedarnath temple, it traces back to Pandavas when they were supposed to please Lord Shiva to seek forgiveness for killing their kins during the war. When Lord Shiva knows this, he hides as a bull but finally got traced. There is a bull (Nandi) statue in front of the temple in today’s temple. People believed Lord Shiva is present as a bull in this temple. There are so many other temples related to Lord Shiva in the surrounding of the main temple.

There are plenty of mysteries surrounding the temple, with many believing it was built centuries ago. No one knows the true origins of the temple. There are many legends and stories about Jyotirlinga and other aspects of the Kedarnath Temple in Hindu mythology. According to one belief, Shankaracharya built the present temple in the 8th century. Pandavas initially built that temple. The walls of the temple’s sanctum are decorated with figures of various divinities and sections from mythology. According to one belief, Kedarnath Temple was under the snow for about 400 years. That period was between 1300 AD to 1900 AD. The structure of the Kedarnath Temple has several yellow lines that formed because of the slow movement of the glacier above the stones.

Travelling in hills and woods always attracts me, as mountains and forests give a close touch to nature and peace of mind that we miss amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life. Being in the mountains never gets boring for me. Rather, it makes my soul happy. Travelling is my passion & profession as well. On this trip, you will find so many tourist attractions to enjoy.

When you drive through the mountains, every turn on the road has something to say. I think, if you want to be in the lap of nature and need to experience every bit, mountains are the best places to be in. Natural beauty in the surrounding of Kedarnath is beyond explanation. The magnanimous Himalayas, the holiest of the rivers, the spiritual mystery, stunning landscapes, a mesmerizing floral make you feel outstanding. No words can ever be enough to describe this blessed land perfectly. There is a saying, ‘where ever you go, go with your heart’. Concerning Kedarnath, I will say, whenever you go there, go with your heart & soul. In continuity, you may also read The Thrilling Adventure of Rafting in Rishikesh.

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Trip to Kathmandu, sharing a few memories & experiences

Jaspal Singh - 15 June 2020

Updated on May 27th, 2023

We planned a trip to Kathmandu in December 2016. It was a trip for both leisure and professional reasons. The few days spent there were full of memories that I was trying to gather for the last few weeks as I was planning to put those moments in the shape of a blog, highlighting a few attractions that Kathmandu has. Kathmandu is a historical, spiritual, enticing, and vibrant place and has many things to offer to visitors. So many monuments and temples are treasured in the city, even after a natural disaster that occurred a few years back. In 2016, it was a depressing scene when I visited this city.

Effects of Earthquake in 2015

In an earthquake in April 2015, centuries-old buildings, like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and Changu Narayan Temple, were destroyed. A nine-story building called Bhimsen Tower was also destroyed. In 2016, the city was still under the effect of disaster but trying to put itself back together. Many buildings were so damaged that you could see from a distance only, as they were not safe to visit. As I am writing this blog after a few years, so I hope the situation would be better today.

Kathmandu: Tracing into history

Going back in history, they originally knew Kathmandu as Kantipur. It was a trading center between India and Tibet, which gradually led to the growth and construction of present-day Kathmandu. The city flourished in the 13th century when most monuments and incredible temples, including the famous Durbar Squares, were built. Kathmandu was an independent city within surrounding valley areas divided into three kingdoms. A long rivalry and regular infightings and wars between these kingdoms resulted in the decline of the valley’s kingdoms. Still, finally, in 1769, an invasion by Prithvi Narayan Shah made the unification of Nepal and Kathmandu became the capital city.

In 1846 again, a big change occurred. Rana’s family became the royal family of Nepal for almost 100 years. In the 1950s Nepal became a tourist point, and the tourist industry took an important shape. Tourists from all over the world started coming to Nepal and enjoying the exotic and beautiful scenery, and hippy culture became a part of life. Finally, in 2006, a parliamentary democratic setup was restored, and since then, it has had a politically stable era.

Everest View from hill's top — *Everest View from Hill’s top*

Nepali people & lifestyle

Nepali people are amicable and welcoming. I met many people concerning my professional reason; they all were very cooperative. The city is full of activities all day. There are shopping centers, where you can spend time but if you are thinking to buy something, never forget to bargain. Yak wool woolens, especially blankets, are very popular and you will find them everywhere. While moving you will surely find local whispering offers of weeds, hash, and opium in your ears. It is always better to say no to them and move on because you may get in trouble easily—almost everything like vegetables, eatables, fruits, and cigarette vendors you will find on roadsides. Same way, wines, and other drinks are available in local general shops.

If you are visiting for the first time

Portraying a city with a negative image is not the purpose of this blog, but a few details need to be shared. If you are visiting for the first time, you must keep in mind that it is still a developing city with many things that can frustrate you. Under construction roads, dusty air, traffic nuisance, street vendors, and beeps of cars are everywhere. When you stay a few more days, you will also find many outstanding things that you will never forget. Buddhist and Hindu temples are so outstanding that you keep on clicking all on your cameras.

…few more attractions in and around Kathmandu

In Kathmandu, there are so many awesome things that any visitor would love to see. As I mentioned earlier, that city has historical and religious significance as well. Visiting different temples can make you feel blessed. You will also find Sadhus (Monks) outside temples always ready to pose for photographs for some donation. Pashupati Nath temple, dedicated to the god Shiva, is on the banks of the Bagmati River. The huge-sized temple is a commonplace of worship for Hindus and Buddhists, where cremations take place along the river’s edge. This temple is so big that you can spend an entire day browsing the campus.

In the surrounding city, there are so many attractions that can add more memories to your trip.

While you are in Kathmandu, you can’t miss visiting another ancient place, Bhaktapur. The remarkable architecture of temples and the entire city is full of woodcarving and metal craft. You feel while praising those monuments. Bhaktapur is a nearby place where a beautiful temple attracts tourists. You can spend hours strolling and exploring this incredible place on foot. Boudhanath Temple is situated several kilometers outside the city. This temple was again under construction, but still, there were a lot of visitors browsing it. If you can spare a little more time, Pokhara, Chitwan & Chandra Giri can offer you a lot of breathtaking and soothing relaxation. Tourism is a way of life, and it can be felt everywhere, from the city’s chaotic streets to religious and historical temples.

Visiting Chandra Giri Hills

We planned to Visit Chandra Giri Hill resort and temple which is on the top of the hills. To reach there, take the ride on the cable car, and a 10-15 minute journey in astonishing views of the mountains is so fascinating that you can’t stop saying, it’s fabulous. Cold and fresh breeze welcomes you with its freshness. It’s a climb of about 2500 meters from sea level. Snow-capped peaks are visible from the top, and this entirely makes the surrounding a dreamland. There is a temple on the top of the hill dedicated to Lord Shiva, where an idol of Nandi is erected.

Resort Chandra Giri Hill — *ChandraGiri Hills Resort*

There is a cafeteria next to the temple where you can get snacks like popcorn and dumping. You can sit in the open area and enjoy eatables while enjoying nature. You can view the snow-capped tops of Everest from there. I still remember the panoramic view of Everest.

In concluding words, I can say that Kathmandu is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. I wish to visit once again to recapture more about it.

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Road trip Tasmania: Launceston to Hobart

Jaspal Singh - 14 June 2020

Updated on September 8th, 2024

Roads are made for journeys, not destinations, and sometimes, while travelling, we get moments that can’t be explained in words. Tasmania is one of those destinations, which is perfect for road tripping with outstanding views around every corner, an abundance of beachfront, and roadside produces stalls aplenty, there’s every reason for you to hit the highway. Road trip Tasmania has a lot of things that can make your trip a lifelong memory.

Many years have passed, but the memories are still afresh that I can recall all the wonderful moments I experienced during my trip to Launceston & Hobart in Tasmania. We travelled from Launceston to Hobart by bus. In 2014, the University of Tasmania organized a trip for education consultants working with them, and I was part of it. We spent two nights in Launceston, a beautiful city in Tasmania. It is like some holiday place, where you get everything that refreshes your mind and soul. You can’t stop praising the elegant architecture of the city.

*Volunteer holding Koala at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. I got the picture.*

It is indeed a city full of art and design, beautiful green parks, surrounding hills, pleasant and cold weather make you feel outstanding. I spent my maximum time walking around different places in Launceston and seeing the sights. Tasmania is a place of wild and beautiful landscapes, friendly people with a relaxed lifestyle, but this is more true of Launceston.

Tamar Valley, Launceston

Tamar Valley is a place you can’t miss visiting when you are in Launceston. It’s a very scenic place where you can easily spend your afternoon checking out some wineries.

Launceston’s local airport receives flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Before coming to this place, my stay was in Melbourne, where I often stay while I am in Australia. Launceston Airport is a regional airport on the outskirts of the city.

After visiting campuses of universities and few colleges in Launceston, our next destination was Hobart. Organizers of the trip planned to take us to Hobart by road on a tourist bus. The trip guide asked us to be ready in the morning at a time.

First stay at Colonial town Champbell with some refreshment

The next morning, we all were ready in front of our hotel at the right time. We all were excited because the road trip was going to be full of wonderful experiences. The very first stoppage, on the way, was Campbell town. Located 67 km southeast of Launceston, Campbell Town is the perfect place to stay and have some relaxing moments. You may take a walk along the banks of the Elizabeth River before finding a local bar or restaurant for a well-earned meal.

In 1811, Governor Macquarie named the river Elizabeth after his wife’s name. There are so many interesting tourist spots in town that you can explore. There are so many buildings dating from the 19th century. Campbell Town is full of colonial history where you can find many colonial structures; you can’t stop yourself admiring them. Red Bridge is one of them, which was built in 1830 by convicts. You may also visit Campbell Town Museum if you wish to learn more about the town’s history. Here you can have a useful brochure from the Visitor Information Centre.

If you feel hungry, you need not worry. There are a lot of eateries for quick snacks and lunches. If you have sufficient time, you may sit on the bank of the river and enjoy your picnic.

Red Bridge on River Elizabeth, — *Red Bridge on River Elizabeth*

St Michael's Catholic Church Campbell — *St Michael’s Catholic Church Campbell*

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

The next important stoppage we took was Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, just 17 miles before reaching our last destination, Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania. As the sanctuary is mostly situated outdoors, you get plenty of free parking. It was almost evening time when we reached there.

Bonorong is one of Tasmania’s important sanctuaries. It is home to many awesome animals, including Kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. You get free time to see a sanctuary, touch even feed these beautiful and cute animals like kangaroos, koalas. Visitors get pictures clicked to keep as memories.

Check timing before planning trip

As I said, the sanctuary is outdoor, so you must keep with your weather-appropriate clothing. The sanctuary is open almost daily, but you must check it before planning your trip. You can take your eatable if you have a picnic there, but even if you forget to take food, you will find excellent restaurants serving snacks and other eatables.

Entry to the wildlife sanctuary is paid. This entry fee is used to maintain Bonorong sanctuary. You also get a free bag of kangaroo food with this entry fee. We all enjoyed a good time being at the sanctuary. I can certainly recommend this place as must visit if ever you are near Hobart.

Bonorong Park Wildlife Centre Tasmania — *Bonorong Park Wildlife Centre*

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, Tasmania — *Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary*

Kangaroos in Tasmania — *He too enjoying posing to Camara*

In Hobart, our stay was at Hotel Maya Colonial, near to Salamanca market. It was very comfortable to stay, especially because of its location. Hobart’s picturesque waterfront is quite close to this hotel. Salamanca Market is Tasmania’s largest and most vibrant outdoor market, which opens every Saturday. You can buy almost everything you need like fresh food, homeware, crafts, jewellery, and so many other things.

As I earlier said, the University of Tasmania and the Department of Education organized our trip, so our primary focus was visiting the university and different Tasmania TAFE campuses. After two or three day’s busy schedules, our trip organizers again planned a leisure trip to two awesome places. One of them was Mt Wellington, and another one was Bruny Island.

Exploring the Salamanca market

Salamanca Market is a street market in Salamanca Place, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.

Trip to Mt Wellington

On the day of the trip, we again started around 8 am. Everybody was so excited to see Mt Wellington from the close; no doubt it is normally visible from the city of Hobart itself. We all were on a tourist bus running through the green forest and zig zag slopes. All this was creating an incredible experience.

All members of the group were enjoying the natural scenery and trying to feel windy mountains. It was a cool but sunny day, but the roaring cool wind was making everyone feel chilled. I recommend everybody should be dress according to the weather.

Standing on Mt Wellington, you can feel Hobart city somewhere in the clouds, and all this makes stunning scenery, which you can never forget. You can catch panoramic views of clouds, sunrise and sunset. The Wellington Range is popular for mountain biking as well as horse riding. We all spent few hours there, enjoyed the beautiful facets of nature before moving to our next destination.

Mt Wellington Hobart, Tasmania — *Mt Wellington*

Day spent at Bruny Island

Bruny Island is nothing less than a paradise for those who love beaches, surfing, scenic views, boat riding, and food lovers. We went there in our tourist bus arranged by trip organizers. The entire way was through a green forest. You have to board your vehicle on a ferry at one particular point, which takes you to Island.

The very first view after reaching the island makes you outstanding. A natural wonderland full of stunning coastline gives you such a soothing impression that you can’t forget it throughout your life. Food lovers get so much variety of eatables that you will love to stay a few days there. Locally produced cheese, chocolate, whiskey, seafood, berries, wines, and so many other options you get to enjoy your trip.

Scenic views at Bruny Island are an all-time attraction. You can enjoy a long beach walk, see the sunset and so many such moments. Boating can add a thrill to your trip. As a whole, it is a complete paradise you would like to visit again and again.

..more about Bruny Island

Beautiful video of Bruny Island, Tasmania, Australia

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A visit to beautiful cities, Zurich & Lucerne, Switzerland

Jaspal Singh - 29 May 2020

Updated on September 7th, 2024

I have been fortunate enough to visit Europe many times with plenty of charming cities catching my eye and heart. Still, my last visit to Switzerland, especially to Zurich & Lucerne, undoubtedly compelled me to feel that Switzerland is a place where beauty gets its meaning.

Lucerne Lake, Switzerland — *Lucerne Lake, Luzerne: I wish I could start every day with a view like this.* Jaspal Singh.

It’s a small country in the center of Europe bordering countries like France, Germany, Austria & Italy. Still, because of its majestic beauty, it is a dream destination for everyone with wandering lust. I have an undoubted belief that Switzerland really has something for everyone.

Beautiful Switzerland — *I clicked it from the terrace of the **International Management Institute**.* Jaspal Singh.

I visited this beautiful country in June and July 2019 while on an educational trip to visit different universities and colleges in Europe. My flight was from India to Warsaw in Poland, from where I reached Zurich, and then I boarded a train to reach Lucerne.

Day One in Luzerne

Lucerne is one of my favorite cities I have ever visited. The city’s beauty is so outstanding that you don’t find enough words while trying any description. My host from IMI Switzerland, Ms. Greta Frey, came to pick me up in her car. It really amazed me to see the beauty and magical ambiance everywhere, in nature, in architecture, in monuments, parks, and all public places. Three enormous mountains touching the shores of Lake Lucerne surround City.

It makes you feel like standing in some beautiful painting. So many ancient churches add more value to their beauty. Chapel Bridge is a popular landmark connecting the center of Lucerne. Chapel Bridge is the biggest wooden covered bridge in Europe, dating back to the 14th century. On the walls of the bridge, so many paintings depicting Lucerne’s history and culture are fixed.

Chapel Bridge on Fire

In 1993, the bridge was burned, and it destroyed many paintings in the fire. On August 18th, 1993, shortly after midnight, about two-thirds of the wooden Chapel Bridge was destroyed by fire. The fire broke out on August 18th after midnight. At 0:50 hours a tourist alarmed the fire brigade that a boat under the bridge and the bridge itself were burning. Detailed analysis showed later that the fire broke out on the bridge itself (maybe because of a cigarette) and encroached upon the boat from there. After the fire, they banned parking boats under the bridge.

Chapel Bridge, Switzerland — *Chapel Wooden Bridge*

After checking in to my accommodation at IMI College, I wasted no time settling out of my evening and nighttime. The friend group I was a part of during this visit added more unforgettable memories to the trip. We all friend planned to visit an open traditional market, shop craft shops, snack on ice cream and enjoy eatables and drinks. It was really a lifelong experience sitting with friends, having chilled beer and other drinks. A few of us were not having beers. We spent almost a long evening enjoying ourselves together. There was an open cultural show that made our visit really mind-blowing and unique.

Mt Pilatus is Lucerne’s landmark

Lucerne’s best things are its proximity to nature, the beautiful lake, and the mountains surrounding the city. Mount Pilatus is Lucerne’s landmark with an incredible panoramic view where you can spend as much time as you wish. There are so many activities that you can enjoy in the snow. As we had limited time, we couldn’t enjoy every activity, and I feel there are so many such things that give reason to visit there again.

Luzerne attracts you

Lucerne Lake attracts you all the time, whether it’s early morning or late evening. So many nature-loving people and swimmers spend time on the beautiful banks of the Lake. I spent more than a week in this beautiful city, and the lake was my favorite place to spend my evenings. So many memories filled with nature’s beauty are still fresh in my mind, and I feel I can’t ever forget those scenic & peaceful moments.

The beauty of the Lake is outstanding, and while standing on the edge, you can’t stop saying, what a beautiful place to stay for a few more moments! Crystal-clear greenish-blue water with a backdrop of mountains makes a majestic panoramic view that relaxes your mind and soul.

Hospitality Options in Luzerne

IMI Institute Switzerland — *IMI College Campus*

Switzerland has many things on its list like chocolates, cheese, banking, majestic natural beauty, punctual trains, and hospitality management education. It is home to the world’s top-ranking institutes for hospitality & leisure management. Switzerland is called the ‘home of hospitality, a welcoming destination for tourists since the 18th century. Natural beauty and amazing landscapes made it a must-see destination worldwide. They started the very first hotel schools during the late 19th century.

..another city I visited: Zurich

Another beautiful city that I visited during my trip was Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, which is also the social and cultural hub of the country. Rich in history, natural beauty, and notable architecture, they knew Zurich as the country’s financial capital. Lake Zurich and the Limmat River add more beauty to this beautiful city. The charming streets of the old town make you feel outstanding with its stunning scenery. So many gorgeous places you can’t miss visiting including Beautiful Oldtown, where while walking you will get everything like monuments reminding your city’s history, restaurants, medieval houses, and Old Churches. Lake Zurich is the perfect place for boating, swimming, and other activities to make your trip worth it. A boat ride can help you get a full view of the city’s surroundings. The city has so many other things to pamper you.

Ask us to make this beautiful place your next DESTINATION

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A Beautiful city Prague, where Beer is cheaper than Water

Jaspal Singh - 15 May 2020

Updated on September 7th, 2021

Quoting Dalai Lama on the importance of travel, which says; Once a year goes someplace you’ve never been before, I am starting my blog. And I feel lucky to be in the international education industry, where I often get the chance to travel to so many destinations across the globe. I keep on sharing my experiences and expressions in my blogs from time to time. During the past few years, I got the chance to travel to different parts of Europe. This article I feel is just sharing few impressions I had while spending a few days in the beautiful city of Prague.

Prague is full of visitors from around the world throughout the year, but especially in summers. While roaming in streets, you can’t stop your eyes from admiring the art and beauty of city architecture. The city is full of art all around. Prague’s public places are full of stunning beauty that you can’t miss praising awesomely. You can easily say, that if European cities were necklaces, Prague would be a diamond among pearls.

Charlie Bridge Prague

The most iconic place that every visitor sees in Prague is Charlie Bridge built across the River Vltava. After long walks through Prague, this place is a relaxing point to take deep breaths and watch the beauty of the city around. 516 meters long and 9.5 meters wide and standing on 15 pillars. This bridge is one of the most famous bridges in the world. There is nothing wrong if I say this bridge represents the glamorous era of Prague. If we have a quick glimpse about the history of this bridge, they built it in 1357 after floods had destroyed the previous bridge.

Charlie Bridge in Google MAP — *Charlie Bridge in google map*

The bridge is decorated with so many big-size statutes and lamps on both sides, which add more beauty to a scenic view. Every statute has its own history and background that we can write separate articles on each of them. Statute of St. John of Nepomuckis is one of the most interesting statutes mounted there. A legend says that St. John was tortured to death when he refused to give away the confessional secret of the queen. Many people believe that it brings luck if you touch the statue. Standing on a bridge, you can have a scenic view of so many historical buildings, castles, and churches. You’ll see a splendid view of lovely domed churches and soaring old towers everywhere. This all makes Prague a city with a stunning skyline. The city is well preserved, with historical buildings everywhere.

National Gallary, Prague — *Building of National Gallary*

Prague Castle, another beautiful icon

Prague Castle is another beautiful icon in the city; once it was home to the Kings and these days, it is an official residence of the Czech Republic’s President. Castle has a wonderful architectural style preserved for centuries. There are so many other attractions within the walls of the castle, including the Old Palace, St George’s Basilica, St Vitus Cathedral, and the Golden Lane. Although it is the official residence of the President, few sections of the Castle are open to the public. You need almost a full day to see the castle and its surroundings. Having limited time I could not explore it properly and I wish whenever I visit Prague next time, I would certainly spend more time there.

*Prague Castle with St. Vitus Cathedral*

Old Town Square

After Charlie Bridge and Prague Castle, Old Town square is another important spot that you can’t miss if you coming to Prague as a tourist. Townhall is a complex of several ancient buildings. A big medieval astronomical clock mounted on the Old Town Hall is one of the must-see attractions. This clock, also known as Prague Orloj, was installed in the 15^th century and it is the oldest and still working astronomical clock in the world.

*Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square*

..where beer is cheaper than water

Now coming to another interesting fact about the Czech Republic and especially about Prague is the amazing price of beer. I have been traveling to the Czech Republic for years and every time I learned many things. When I visited the first time, it amazed me at the price of beer in Prague. Someone commonly said that beer is cheaper than water in Prague. You get the best and finest beers in Prague’s pubs. Normally in some classic pubs, you don’t have to order it and they will serve you. Czechs adore Pilsner, which is actually a premium option and a thing of pride for many Czechs. Other popular names are Budweiser. You also get options like Staropramen, a Prague-based brewery.

Tank beer is one of the best tastes that you must try. Breweries distribute their own beer in stainless steel tanks like anything. Those tanks are installed directly in pubs and you are served more fresh beer. Craft beer is also very popular these days in Prague. There are so many good beer bars where they serve you some of the best beer brands from around the world. An interesting fact about beer in Prague is that they have beer festivals, which take place on weekends. Different breweries organize these festivals where you have time to taste fresh beers. Such events offer a glorious experience for all beer enthusiasts.

Enjoy beer spas in Prague

Prague can offer you a totally different experience with beer. There are beer spas where you can bathe in beer. It amazed me to hear that you can sit in a bathtub full of beer and enjoy your glass of it. What an amazing fact about beer in the Czech Republic and Prague. The logic behind beer bathe is to relax your fatigue, revitalize the skin and relax the whole body. They used a curative mixture of beer with vitamin B for this purpose. This therapy first became popular in Middle Ages when so many natural ingredients were used to create a mixture.

For Czechs, drinking beer is a social affair, so you have to have it; yes you have the option of taste and flavour. So when you are visiting Prague, try a few of the finest beers. Even if you don’t drink beer, I will suggest you at least experience it. Rest choice is yours, I can’t be suggestive on this point.

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Beautiful Places around Melbourne

Jaspal Singh - 11 May 2020

Melbourne

Updated on September 8th, 2024

I visited Australia and Melbourne many times in the last almost ten years, but I spent so many days in Melbourne during my first visit. This city is one of my favourite cities I have ever visited. The reasons behind my all visits were mixed. Visiting campuses of a few colleges and universities was also one reason, as I have my profession related to it. But as a whole, I spent my days as long vacations as I visited almost every known place in Melbourne. Every time, I felt Melbourne was one of the best places to be. There are so many beautiful places around Melbourne.

Melbourne Nights — *Somewhere in Melbourne*

Metro Trains in Melbourne

During my first visit, Ashburton on Warrigal road was an area of my stay. It was very near to Homes glen metro station. I used this station so many times while roaming around Melbourne. Having 16 simple train lines starting from Flinders street station, this metro service passing through 211 stations is like the lifelines of Melbourne. Flinders Street Station is the central railway station on the corner of Swanston and Queen Street. We knew flinders Street as the heart of Melbourne. The most crucial icon here is the building of a station built inbuilt and started in 1854, and it was the first train station in any Australian city. Yarra River is also passing near Flinders station.

‘I will meet you under the clock’ is a famous idiom in Melbourne, which refers to clocks fixed on the main entrance of Flinders’ street station. Because of being in the city’s central place, people use this place as a meeting point. I can assure, you will never get bored being at Flinders street, Swanston, and Elizabeth, Collins, or Queens street. I used to be there frequently.

Another prominent place touching to Flinders’ station is Federation square. Its meeting place as well centre of various cultural and other activities. It is open 24 hours and 365 days of the year. Fed Square Pty Ltd, a company wholly owned by the state government of Victoria, is committed to representing Melbourne’s multiculturalism via the array of festivals throughout the year and acknowledging the National Days of countries across the globe.

Melbourne Aquarium

The day first, I planned to visit some important places. Melbourne’s Aquarium, Parliament House, Eureka sky deck, and Crown Casino were on the top of my list of sites. All these sites are in the central city within walking distance of each other. Melbourne Aquarium is on the Yarra River. It is the world’s only Southern Ocean aquarium, housing a Great Barrier Reef exhibit, Giant Southern Crabs, Japanese spider crabs, clownfish, jellyfish galore, sea turtles, and Grey nurse sharks. Walk along the glass tunnel and watch the underwater world swim around you! Watching the sharks around is a fantastic experience. You feel like walking through Ocean, looking at sea life. It’s a beautiful place to spend your day. No wonder if I say that no trip to Melbourne is complete without visiting Melbourne Aquarium.

Shrine of Remembrance

Another beautiful place within walking distance of Flinders street station is the National War Memorial of Victoria, popularly known as the Shrine of Remembrance. As Australia’s largest war memorial, it is another landmark in Melbourne. Opened in 1934, the Shrine is a memorial to those served during different wars for the country. It is the annual Anzac Day and Remembrance Day, which commemorates the sacrifices made by the countrymen for the country. The upper balcony of the Shrine offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area and the skyline of Melbourne. In brief, it is a must-visit while you are in Melbourne.

One of the best things to do in Melbourne is just being outside, with some fantastic weather. In June July, there are so many great places to enjoy it. Going city with or with no work, roaming in shopping malls, sitting on the banks of Yarra River, Tasting Chinese, Italian, Indonesian and Indian foods, walking on the sand and water on different beaches can be your regular activities. Williams’s town and St Kilda beaches were my favourite beaches during my stay in Melbourne.

Regional escapes are full of more beautiful things than city life. Suppose you wish to breathe more fresh air. In that case, you can plan a long trip to any destination like Mt Buller, Phillip Island, Great Ocean Road, Dandenong Hill Ranges, Sovereign Hill gold mines at Ballarat, or Grampian National Park.

Ballarat & Sovereign Hills gold mines

One day, we planned to visit Ballarat and Sovereign Hills gold mines. It is situated 110 km northwest of Melbourne. The day we went there, it was cloudy with drizzling at brief intervals. Way to Ballarat from Melbourne passes through beautiful landscapes and breathtaking sceneries. Wines, yards and green hilly slopes create a soothing effect on you. At Ballarat, you will get a re-created environment of 1850s gold mining. The Discovery of gold in the 1850s is the most significant event in the state’s evolution of Victoria. Even now, you can try your luck and pan for gold in water and sand flowing there. You can wander through colonial buildings and feel the atmosphere of a bygone era. Continue reading more beautiful places around Melbourne

Initially written in 2010, so dates belong to that year.

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Stunning & Beautiful Melbourne Beaches

Jaspal Singh - 4 May 2020

Torquay Beach

Updated on September 8th, 2024

If you feel a love affair with the sea, sand, salt, and clear water, you will find all these in Melbourne’s bayside city. I got fascinated with the crystal clear water of Melbourne beaches during my recent visit, and my first encounter was with stunning Brighton Beach on 14 June 2010. Coastal Melbourne’s bay-side, touching its Yarra River, has a lot of breathtaking views.

Nobody can describe Melbourne’s ultimate beauty without its beaches. Coastal Melbourne faces Port Phillip Bay, and the city’s closest Melbourne beaches are Albert Park and Middle Park just south of South Melbourne. St Kilda, Elwood, Brighton and Sandringham, Williams Town, and Frankston are other beaches in Melbourne. Melbourne’s beaches have excellent facilities like beachside restaurants, water sports, beach games, surfing, cafes, bars, barbecue, pedestrian pathways, and parking areas.

Driving along the gorgeous Great Ocean Road, you can see the fantastic Port Campbell National Park and the famous Twelve Apostles rocks. Here are some of the most popular beaches in the Melbourne area.

St Kilda Beach

Because of its proximity to the city center, St Kilda Beach is one of the popular beaches in Melbourne. Today St Kilda is the prime tourist destination on one of the most picturesque points of the Bay. Being Melbourne’s most fashionable suburbs, St Kilda is home to the wealthiest people.

In the mid of 20^th century, this area was dominated by prostitutes and drug dealers. The haunt of prostitutes and druggies now has been pushed to some outer parts of the city. I found the shops and eating areas on the busy Fitzroy and Acland Streets. Carlisle Street is the right place if you prefer European delights.

The safe and sandy beaches of St Kilda offer you the best place for many outdoor activities like windsurfing, sailing, kite surfing, rollerblading, beach volleyball, jet-skiing, waterskiing, and sunbathing.

St Kilda Beach, Melbourne — me@ St Kilda Beach, April, 2023

St Kilda Pier is the most famous attraction on St Kilda’s beach. Constructed in 1853, the wooden structure was originally used for loading timbers and other materials. At the end of the pier, the iconic kiosk was built in 1904, which got destroyed in a fire in 2003 but was rebuilt soon. The pier is a popular destination for cycling, roller-skating, strolling, and fishing. At the end of the pier, there is also a ‘ Little Blue Restaurant’ where you can enjoy a fantastic range of foods and local wines.

Brighton Beach

Having the reputation of being the cleanest of the many beaches along Port Phillip Bay, Brighton Beach is near St Kilda. Golden sand and sparkling blue water, and bright, colorful “beach huts” make it a colorful beach. The beach huts, symbolic of Melbourne Australia, and its beach suburbs, command high prices when they come up for sale.

Beach walks, sunbathing, swimming, sightseeing, fishing, and kite surfing are popular activities on this beach. There are a few excellent restaurants around with good beach views, including a café/bar and a restaurant at Middle Brighton Sea Baths. You can also glimpse the city at the end of the beach. Brighton Beach is popular with both locals and tourists visiting the Melbourne area.

Williams Town Beach

Williamstown Beach was my favorite place during my stay in Melbourne. I used to go there whenever I felt like being close to nature. It is at the mouth of Yarra River, where it enters Hobson’s Bay and Port Phillip Bay, southwest of Melbourne city center.

Williamstown has developed from what was a neglected industrialized center into a popular maritime village. Water surrounds Williamstown on three sides. We can enjoy scenic views of the Melbourne skyline from Gem Pier, where cruises on the Yarra River and the bay depart regularly. I wish to go to this place again and again as I feel close to my soul while seeing seashores and changing the colors of the sky.

Torquay: Surfer’s Beach

Torquay Beach, Australia — *Bhawana @ Torquay Beach*

Any detail about Melbourne beaches can’t be completed if we miss Great Ocean Road and Torquay Beach. At around 105 kilometers in southwest Melbourne, it is a beautiful beach having so many fun-oriented activities you can spend your wonderful picnic. If you are fond of surfing, this is the best place. Even if you can’t go surfing like me, you will certainly enjoy the picturesque views changing every moment as the sun moves.

Because of surfing, it is also known as the Surf Capital Of Australia. Besides surfing, there are so many other options to make your trip enjoyable. So many cafes where you will find delicious eatables. Beer bars are there full of varieties of beers and other drinks. This place is also popular for fishing spots. Torquay is the most rapidly expanding town. Just 22 km from another area named Geelong. Torquay has many businesses and manufacturers of surfboards and surf-related products.

Torquey Beach, Australia — *On the way to Torquey Beach*

You can coastal walk or bike ride there. There is a 44-kilometer coastal walk, which is certainly not for faint-hearted ones. So many eucalyptus trees surround the beach, making it an amazing place to enjoy your time. There is an information center in Surf Coast Plaza. You can get all information easily if you are going for the first time. Torquay has been a holiday place since the late 19th century as they designed its beaches with grasslands and shady trees where you can sit and watch the movements of the sea. In summer, this place remains overflowing with visitors, especially day-trippers from Geelong and Melbourne.

Share your feedback in the comment section.

St Kilda Beach: April 2023

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A Symbol of Eternal Love: Taj Mahal

Jaspal Singh - 4 May 2020

Taj Mahal

Updated on October 10th, 2021

A symbol of eternal love, Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most famous and beautiful buildings. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built Taj in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. In 1631, Mumtaz Mahal died during the birth of their 14th child, Gauhara Begum, when Shah Jahan was on an expedition to the south and, like always, Mumtaz Mahal accompanied him. When Mumtaz Mahal died, she was just 39 years old. She was the emperor’s beloved wife and trusted companion, travelling with him all over the Mughal Empire.

Title of Mumtaj Mahal

Initially known as Prince Khurram, Shah Jahan met Persian Princes ‘Arjumand Banu’ and fell in love with her. After five years, in 1612, they got married. In 1628, Shah Jahan became emperor, and he gave her the title ‘Mumtaz Mahal’, meaning ‘Jewel of Palace.’

On the death of Mumtaj, Emperor was so heartbroken that he ordered the court into mourning for two years. After her death, Shah Jahan erected the world’s most beautiful monument in the memory of his beloved. Before she passed, she had her husband’s promise to build something unique in her memory.

Taj Mahal stands in the city of Agra, in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the Yamuna River. It took 22 years and the labour of 22,000 workers to construct the monument. This was the last wish of Mumtaz Mahal.

Close up View of Taj Mahal: One of the most beautiful monuments of the world — *Close up view of Taj Mahal: One of the most beautiful monuments of the world*

Poets described beauty of Taj

Built as the ultimate expression of love, Taj remained a fascination for many poets and lovers.

Here are lines from an exquisite song written by Shakeel Badayuni:

“Ek Shahanshaah Ne Banavaa Ke Hasi. N Taaj mahal.
Saarii Duniyaa Ko Muhabbat Kii Nishaanii Dii Hai”
(In having the beautiful Taj Mahal built, an emperor has given the entire world a token of love.”

Rabindranath Tagore described Taj as “a teardrop on the cheeks of time”.

Emperor Shah Jahan himself described the Taj in these words:

Should guilty seek asylum here,
Like one pardoned, he becomes free from sin.
Should a sinner make his way to this mansion,
All his past sins are to be washed away.
The sight of this mansion creates sorrowing sighs;
And the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes.
In this world, this edifice has been made;
To display the creator’s glory.

It is best described by the English poet Sir Edwin Arnold as ‘Not a piece of architecture, as other buildings are, but the proud passions of an emperor’s love wrought in living stones.’

Taj Mahal as it looks from Red Fort, where Aurangzeb imprisoned Shah Jahan — *Taj Mahal as it looks from Red Fort, where Aurangzeb imprisoned* Shah Jahan

Taj is the centre of Pilgrimage

In Agra, once the capital of the Mughal Empire during the 16^th and early 18^th centuries, Taj is the centre of pilgrimage. Tourists from all over the world visit Agra to see Taj. It is 125 km south of New Delhi, the capital of India. Travelling through the road route takes you approx 4 hours to reach Agra from Delhi. There are regular luxury bus and coach services between Delhi and Agra. If you catch a flight from Delhi to Agra, in just 30 minutes, you find yourself at the Kheria Airport of Agra, 7 km from the city centre and 3 km from the railway station.

There are different entrance gates to visit Taj. They made the main entrance gate of red sandstone. It is 150 ft. Wide and nearly 100 ft. high and consists of a lofty central arch with double-storeyed wings on either side. The whole courtyard of the Taj is framed in symmetrical. The only asymmetrical object in the Taj is the casket of the emperor, which was built beside the queens as an afterthought. The symmetry of the structure is there even in the flowerbeds and the small gardens dotting the place.

The real tragic part of the love story lies in the final years of Shah Jahan. When he was 65, his son Aurangzeb imprisoned him in Red Fort at Agra and became the throne’s successor. While he was in prison, he somehow managed to gaze at Taj from the grill of prison.

Beauty designed in stones

Surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains, Taj attracts you to see the ultimate beauty designed in stones. A green carpet of the garden runs from the main gate to the foot of the Taj Mahal. According to the holy Koran, a garden is symbolic of paradise.

I visited Taj during my recent visit to Delhi on the 23^rd of February. I went to Delhi to receive Bhawana, who was coming from Australia, and we planned to visit Agra before coming back to our place. It was an all-time fascination for me to be there and breathe in the air touching Taj. The beauty of the Taj has everything to create lifelong impressions on everybody’s mind. I still feel all vibrations; I felt being over there. Though it was a concise visit, we really enjoyed being there. Our ‘guide boy’ described all details related to Taj. The monument’s size looked huge as we entered, but as we approached it, it just receded to its actual size. They called this geometric illusion.

Taj change colours with changing daylight

Very interesting, Taj changes colours with changing daylight. They build it to reflect the sky, pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening, and golden by moonlight. As the day turns to night and the sun completes its journey, and the moon comes to heal the world; Taj becomes a mystery. You may even forget to breathe or blink, wondering it to be real or some illusion. Changing the colours of the Taj signifies the changing moods of a woman.

Impressed by the flawless beauty of the Taj, I wish to visit Taj again and again. Long live Taj and long live feelings of undying love, it is made for.

The article is written in 2011, so the dates mentioned regarding my visit to Taj belongs to 2011

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Effects of Earthquake in 2015

Kathmandu: Tracing into history

Nepali people & lifestyle

If you are visiting for the first time

…few more attractions in and around Kathmandu

Visiting Chandra Giri Hills

Tamar Valley, Launceston

First stay at Colonial town Champbell with some refreshment

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

Check timing before planning trip

Exploring the Salamanca market

Trip to Mt Wellington

Day spent at Bruny Island

..more about Bruny Island

Day One in Luzerne

Chapel Bridge on Fire

Mt Pilatus is Lucerne’s landmark

Luzerne attracts you

Hospitality Options in Luzerne

..another city I visited: Zurich

Charlie Bridge Prague

Prague Castle, another beautiful icon

Old Town Square

..where beer is cheaper than water

Enjoy beer spas in Prague

Metro Trains in Melbourne

Melbourne Aquarium

Shrine of Remembrance

Ballarat & Sovereign Hills gold mines

St Kilda Beach

Brighton Beach

Williams Town Beach

Torquay: Surfer’s Beach

Title of Mumtaj Mahal

Poets described beauty of Taj

Taj is the centre of Pilgrimage

Beauty designed in stones

Taj change colours with changing daylight

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