“Gar firdaus, ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin ast,” Kashmir

Kashmir has long been hailed as “Paradise on Earth,” a place where snow-capped peaks kiss azure skies. Where meadows bloom like strokes of an artist’s brush, and where lakes mirror the serenity that this land exudes. For travelers and dreamers alike, it remains an ethereal escape from the monotony of everyday life. But during Operation Sindoor, a large-scale counter-terror operation was carried out in the region. This paradise bore a different atmosphere—one where beauty and tension coexisted in delicate balance.

The Beauty That Persists

Despite the increased military presence and restricted movements during Operation Sindoor, Kashmir’s natural splendor remained untouched. In the early morning, the Dal Lake still shimmered under the rising sun, its iconic houseboats gently swaying with the water’s rhythm. The Mughal Gardens bloomed defiantly in bursts of color. And the mighty Gulmarg slopes, though quieter than usual, stood majestic with their powdery snow and whispering pine forests.

Even with fewer tourists, the spirit of Kashmir’s warm-hearted people didn’t waver. Conversations with local shopkeepers and shikara boatmen were tinged with hope—hope that peace would prevail and visitors would soon return in full. Their resilience, much like the valley itself, was a reminder that even amidst uncertainty, life and beauty endure.

Curtailed Journeys and Silent Valleys

The Pahalgam attack shook the sense of safety that both tourists and locals had begun to rebuild over recent years. Coming at the height of the summer travel season, the incident not only claimed innocent lives but also prompted swift responses from authorities. Within hours, the government issued a travel advisory, urging visitors to reconsider or postpone non-essential travel to certain parts of Kashmir, especially in South Kashmir.

Inspite of the travel Advisory I planned to visit Kashmir as per my original schedule and reached Srinagar on 5^th May early morning. My travel agent had already sent a car for me and my family to move to the Hotel in Main Srinagar Town but as we stepped outside the terminal it felt like a heavily guarded fortress. There was a sense of urgency and emergency everywhere.

The roads were empty (later understood Srinagar wakes up late). Our plan was simple and the itinerary was made by our Travel Agency Ehaab Tours and Travels, Gulmarg. First day Srinagar local Sight seeing, Second day Sonamarg, third Day at Doodhpatri, fourth day at Gulmarg with Gondola Ride, Fifth day at Pahalgam and sixth day return to Srinagar for return journey.

Flight Delhi to Srinagar with my SON Ashish

5^th May 2025

First day went uneventful. We checked into our Hotel Green Ambition, got freshened up, had our heartful breakfast and proceeded for Srinagar Local tour. Srinagar is not just a city—it is an experience, a symphony of nature, culture, and history that leaves visitors spellbound. Often described as the “Jewel of the Valley,” Srinagar’s beauty lies in its perfect blend of majestic landscapes, tranquil waters, charming gardens, and warm-hearted people.

We explored the Mughal Gardens, Pari Mahal, Chasme Sahi one more beautiful than the other. Secluded within the scenic Dal Lake, every spot was mesmerizing. Weather was marvellous and was truly worth the visit. To my disdain Tulip Garden had closed a week before. After visiting almost four gardens surrounding Dal Lake we proceeded for Lunch and then crashed to Hotel to rest. In the evening, we went to the wooden Bridge over Dal River. It was beautiful, some people singing, some enjoying the moment. The lighting on the bridge was very good and place tourist friendly.

Kids enjoying at Mugal Gardens, Srinagar

Second Day 6^th May 2025-

We started for our journey to Sonmarg, another gem of a place in Kashmir Sonmarg—literally meaning “Meadow of Gold”—is nature at its raw, awe-inspiring best. Framed by towering glaciers and wrapped in lush alpine meadows, it serves as the last major stop before one crosses into the stark wilderness of Zojila Pass, the dramatic gateway to Ladakh.

Together, Sonmarg and Zojila offer an unforgettable journey—where pristine beauty meets thrilling adventure, and every curve of the road reveals a new marvel of the Himalayas.

Zojila Pass was on my bucket list and I would not have missed it anyhow. Zojila is more than a road—it’s a threshold, a place where you feel the pulse of the mountains, where nature demands respect, and where every traveler becomes a humble witness to the might of the Himalayas.

While returning to Sonmarg from Zojila Pass, our driver showed us the hotel where Salman Khan stayed during shooting of his iconic film Bajrangi Bhaijan and the place which was made as Border within the small town of Sonmarg in the film.

At Sonmarg

At Zojila Pass Altitude 11649 Ft

Third Day 7^th May 2025-

Original Plan was Doodhpatri enroute to Gulmarg but due to operation sindoor, JK Government stopped the tourist from proceeding to Doodhpatri. So Plans changed, We checked out of Hotel and proceeded to visit Manasbal Lake about 30 Kms from Srinagar. Surrounded by gentle hills, orchards, and lotus-covered shallows, the lake’s glassy surface often mirrors the sky so perfectly that it’s hard to tell where water ends and air begins. After visiting Manasal Lake, next on itinerary was Gulmarg and its breathtaking Gondola Ride (tickets were booked in advance).

Then came the news, Police has closed Gulmarg for tourists and gondola closed. Gulmarga and its Gondola Ride was in my  bucket list and motivation to visit Kashmir. I felt very disappointed and started other calculations. We headed back to Srinagar and as situation of war was looming, requested my Guide to drop us at Jammu. The airports of Srinagar and Jammu were closed as they belong to Indian Air Force. Our Guide then assured us of safety and informed that best way is to travel by road to Jammu next day on 8^th May 2025. We again checked into a new Hotel and took rest the full evening.

At Manasbal Lake

Fourth Day 8^th May 2025-

Never in my dreams I expected the next two days will turn into like this. As the morning sun kissed Srinagar, we started our Journey from Srinagar to Jammu. We were happy to just return back amid so many restrictions. As our car reached Quazigund, we were stopped by local police. A landslide had occurred in Ramban and roads were fully covered with mud and stones due to heavy rains. We had a big family of around 300 people waiting there to cross over.

We waited for around 8 hours at the quazigund checkpost but as the day folded hopes of the road opening faded away. Then we planned to go to the nearest city for hotel. As we searched in Google Maps, nearest big city was Anantnag. We proceeded to Anantnag and reached there at around 4 PM.

After a lot of search finally we got a Hotel and checked in. Anantnag is a beautiful city with a very spectacular view of snow filled mountains and apple plantations. The view from the hotel was mesmerizing and captivating. The phrase Kashmir is heaven on earth was in true sense with that visuals. Me and my family went out to visit apple plantation and it was certainly unique. We met so many locals who invited us to their houses without knowing about us. The warmness the locals exhibited was truly very overwhelming. The tea shop owner refused to take money from us stating we were his guests. How could they be wrong.

Fifth Day 9^th May 2025-

Early morning at 5 AM, we again started for jammu from Anantnag on hearing news that Highway has opened but after reaching the same quazigund checkpost we were again stopped and police informed that some fresh landslide has happened and highways closed again. We were stuck again. We had our flights scheduled on 10^th May from New Delhi and had no plans to postpone the plans. Then on suggestions from our Guide we planned an alternate route. Nearest local train railway station was SADURA from where we caught a train to SANGALDAN.

After reaching sangaldan, we hired a taxi which took us to Jammu bypassing RAMBAN. We reached around 7 PM at Jammu. The whole city was in dark with all lights switched off in anticipation of Drone Attacks from neighbouring country.

As we moved into the platform to catch our train, w could see the bright lights where our defence systems were countering the drones with loud sound and bright lights on impact. Our Train Rajdhani express was to start at 9 PM from Jammu and we were informed to switch off all lights inside the train. The train started very slowly from Jammu Railway station and after some 5 to 10 KMs it took speed. As we moved out from Jammu, we sighed with belief that we were safe.

We reached Delhi on 10^th May and flyed out with memories of Kashmir and its people etched in memories.

Travel during Operation Sindoor was marked by checkpoints, advisories, and a subtle sense of unease. Tourists were advised to remain within designated zones, and many popular trekking trails and rural routes were temporarily off-limits. The usual bustle of Srinagar’s Lal Chowk or the laughter echoing through the valleys of Pahalgam was replaced by a quieter, more introspective Kashmir.

Though safety measures were necessary and understandable, they meant that our exploration was curtailed. There were places we longed to see—the peaceful banks of the Dal River, the saffron fields of Pampore, the high-altitude wonder of Sonmarg—that we could only admire from a distance or through stories told by locals.

Yet, the limited scope of travel also brought unexpected gifts: deeper conversations, more time to linger over a cup of Kahwa, and a heightened appreciation for the moments we could experience.

A Promise to Return

As we left the valley, watching the Himalayan peaks fade into clouds, one thing was certain: this was not a goodbye. It was a brief interlude, a necessary pause in a long-standing romance with the land. The spirit of Kashmir—resilient, welcoming, and breathtaking—calls one back.

The Indian Army’s efforts under Operation Sindoor, aimed at securing long-term peace, are a reminder of the region’s complex reality. But peace is not only a military objective—it is also about ensuring that Kashmir continues to open its arms to travelers from around the world.

Plans are already underway to return, this time with more time, fewer restrictions, and a heart ready to embrace every inch of the valley. There is still much to see, much to learn, and much to be inspired by.

Until then, Kashmir remains etched in memory: not just for its incomparable beauty, but for its quiet strength and the promise of a brighter, freer tomorrow.

I had booked my Kashmir Trip through Ehaab Tour and Travels. You can visit their site https://ehaabtourandtravels.com/ or can contact Mr Nadim on 9596253654. My trip was smooth except the hiccups due to the war like situation. You can certainly utilize their services which are genuine.

Because no matter how brief the visit or how limited the journey, a trip to Kashmir never truly ends—it simply pauses, waiting for your return. “Gar firdaus, ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin ast,” which translates to “If there is ever a heaven on earth, it’s here, it’s here, it’s here”.

Well I had always dreamt to drive Royal Enfield Classic…also desired so…but never could do it. I don’t know what transpired on 19th Jan, I went and booked myself the beast…Royal Enfield Classic 350 reborn.

I already had taken two test drives of the vehicle and was sure that this is it. RE has made this bike for me…without vibrations…I could feel it. Dream came true. My beast was delivered on 26th Feb 2022.

I was shivering on the day of delivery, watched the beast from distance thinking will I be able to drive this around. Waited half an hr in the showroom for documentation. It was like hours for me to wait to put hand on this. Finally, the showroom sales person Mr Supreet handed over keys to me. I was like….in seventh heaven…what should I do…drive it or admire it….I didn’t had any idea. To help me with, Nayan was with me.

Rest in next blog…Thanks for reading

One of the fastest and quick decision…my friend Mr Nagaraj called me in the evening and asked me to get ready by 7 pm to start for Dandeli. What….I was surprised and astonished…so fast.

Anyway, I could not miss the opportunity after so long lockdown and events in life. I was quick to respond and was super excited about Dandeli. 

We started around 8 PM from yeswanthpur circle on our journey towards Dandeli. The route is very scenic but we covered the most in the night. Early morning we were at Hubli Dharwad Toll. The route passes through Tumkur, Sira, Chitradurga, Davangere, Hubbli, Dharwad and finally Dandeli.

The following pic has been taken at hub Dharwad Toll gate early in the morning

Anyhow after Dharwad toll, it was very scenic route and finally around 7 AM we reached Dandeli. The visit was already booked in a resort which was in between a Jungle and we were assigned two tents for four people. We got freshened up and had a beautiful breakfast at resort. Then the staff of resort guided us to visit the water sports area which was around 20 Km from the resort.

A few things about Dandeli.

Dandeli is always referred as Adventure Capital of south India, peaceful and adventurous. It is located in the rocky trails of the Western Ghats and Kali river flows through it. Dandeli is made up of rocky trails and lots of green environment. Apart from the adventurous activities, there are several historical places like Ulavi Temple, caves to visit in Dandeli. Dandeli’s climate is subtropical, with a major influence of the Western Ghats on it. Temperatures can stay between 20 and 42 degrees Celsius. The closeness to the Arabian Sea affects the weather of this place. The post-monsoon season, October to January is the best time to travel to Dandeli. Dandeli is only 125 Kms from Goa.

Anyways after reaching the Dandeli river rafting area, my foot started shivering. The sheer visuals of water gushing through the rocks, sound made me feel nauseated. It was in mind end of life. 

Anyway, keeping my mind aside (which was telling me to run away), I along with friends went to the water sports area in Kali River. The free packages included in package were Boating for 10 Mins, Jaccuzzi etc. which we completed first. Then came the time of

RAFTING…..

I was shivering…Blood gushing through the body…mind telling one thing, body other…..BUT I decided to go about it. If my friends Nagaraj and Nikhil would not have been there, I would never have done this.

The instructor initially gave us all the protective equipments and gave us instruction on how to handle the gush of water and about movement of the body when approaching the water falling down the slope. 

The instructor was very professional, took my GoPro and put on his helmet (for which they charged Rs 1000 ) from the whole group. 

It was terrifying but exciting, the initial fear went away after few minutes in water and then came the moment….our boat against the water current…Our boat was moving like matchbox in water current down the slope…finally over! As we thought but no….Our instructor again asked us to rotate the boat and go upstream against the water flow to the point where water is roaring at the highest level. On reaching the epitome, our boat just turned 180 degrees like hay in wind….most enjoyable moment…two mates behind the boat even fell down in water which we rescued (no danger). Again our instructor told us to repeat the same but this time it was very exciting.

This was the most adventurous thing I have ever done in my life. Please visit the below link in you tube to see for yourself what I went through.

After finishing two rounds against the water stream, we pulled to the river bank, carried the boat together to the starting point and that ends our adventure for the day.

Returned to the resort. Had lunch and after that Evening snacks were served. Relaxed in the most peaceful environment one could think of. I will surely thank my friends who took me there and helped me to enjoy the place.

Next day after breakfast started towards Bangalore and reached around 8 PM in the evening at Bangalore.

This trip was one of my best trips in life and suggest everyone to try it out.

You can see the videos of the trip on youtube using link below

CYCLING TRIP TO AVALAHALLI FOREST

At Avalahalli Forest

Avalahalli Forest is located in northern corner of Bangalore City and is a nice gateway to find peaceful solace in nature. The place is highly undervalued (Actually its Good) and home to several species of flora, fauna and birds and is majorly covered by Eucalyptus trees.

At Avalahalli Forest- Resting Hut

At Avalahalli Forest- Cycling Trail

One Day Short Trip to Hogenakkal Falls

At Hoggenkkal Falls- TNTDC Parking Area

At Hoggenakkal Falls fish market

Good thing in Hoggenakkal falls is that there are local ladies (Lady Chefs) roaming in the market who will offer to cook fish for you at some rates which you have to Bargain. We purchased 2 kgs of Local Fish (Black Rohu) and then bargained with a local lady to cook for us. She agreed for Rs 500.00 to provide us Rice, Fried Fish, Curry Fish and Rasam by 2.00 PM.( It was already 12.00 noon by then)

After finishing our arrangements for lunch we then proceeded to the Hoggenekkal Falls Bathing Area. We changed to our bathing dress and then indulged under the falls. The force of water was very high which was giving a natural massage to our bodies. We thoroughly enjoyed our Bath for approx 1 hr and felt relaxed having indulged in the water like children.

At Hoggenakkal Falls Bathing Area

After a hour, we went to the lady Chef for our lunch which was ready and served hot. The food was delicious, may be due to culiniary skills of the lady or being cooked on wood fire. Anyhow we enjoyed the food and after a while started our journey back to Bangalore. Also you may enjoy parisal boating in Hoggenakkal Falls which we didnt do as we were too tired after bathing.

Having Lunch at Hoggenakkal Falls

It was a journey to cherish and remember, be it the scenic route swirling through mountains and small ghat roads or the flow of River Kaveri, everything was there to be enjoyed.

River Kaveri (Before Hoggenakkal Falls)

Note: The route is very short if you come out of Bangalore City Limits. Also once you enter Tamil Nadu Limits, TN Police will be on the roads to penalise you for not wearing seat belts or not having proper documents. Please take all with you. If your intension is to visit only falls, then visit just after Monsoon or if you love Boating, then visit in dry months like Feb and March 2020.

Thanks and stay safe.

This blog is about a two day short trip taken to Wayanad and Kozhikode Beach.

ITINEARY SUMMARY

• Trip Starting Point- Bangalore
• Mode of Travel- Car (XUV 500 W9 Model)
• Total Distance (Round Trip)-  860 Km
• Trip Duration-2 Days
• Total Places Visited – 7

 

At Mysore

At Oyo- Rasha Residency

At Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad

At Pookede Lake- Boatin

Chain tree

At Lakkidi View Point

Note: Bandipur National Park remains closed from 9.00 PM till 6.00 AM. Plan accordingly.

Wayanad is at 2100 mts above sea level compare to Bangalore 900 mts. Take a vehicle having good power and brakes to sustain the roads. 

This post of Travelogy Goodlife is created for viewers to have all the information regarding visit to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.

Planning Stage

Jai Mata Vaishno Devi

After reaching Bhawan, Yatra parch needs to be stamped and if heavy rush of pilgrims is observed, then group number is given in the Yatra parch and you have to wait till your group number is announced to have Darshan. There are free lockers available in Bhawan to keep all the belonging. Shoes, leather items, cameras and luggage not allowed inside Mata Vaishno devi Darshan place.

You can have most authentic details and can do booking of accomodation from Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine official Website (https://www.maavaishnodevi.org/).

Ardhakunwari Shrine view from Katra Railway Station

At Katra Railway Station

Cycling Trails…..Bangalore!!!

Bangalore aka Bengaluru is really infamous for its traffic in this 21st Century, also known as Silicon Valley of India is now not so fast city. The average speed of vehicles at peak hours is approx. 15.5 Km/hr, which is 3rd from bottom ranking among Indian cities. So the answer to this may be zoom across in cycle may be a ebike. You will reach faster to your destination with negative carbon footprint to boast off.

I have been using a cycle for my exercise regime since 2018. Cycling is always excitable and enjoyable in group. 

Cycling Trail….Near Heserghatta Lake

I will below state some of the enjoyable cycling trails which will be elaborated in ensuing posts of the same blog. We have considered starting point as Hebbal (near to CBI office). We have covered all these locations with passion and love for nature….

1. Hebbal to Sankey Tank (Approx 6 Km)
2. Hebbal to Cubbon Park (Approx 8 Km)
3. Hebbal to Ulsoor Lake (Approx 9 Km)
4. Hebbal to Rachenhalli Lake (Approx 9 Km)
5. Hebbal to GKVK (Approx 10 km)
6. Hebbal to Avalahalli Forest (Approx 17 Km)
7. Hebbal to Hennur Bamboo Forest (Approx 19 Km)
8. Hebbal to Hessergatta Lake (Approx 20 Km)
9. Hebbal to Turahalli Forest (Approx 21 Km)

This list is exhaustive but not limited. 

All these trails and routes will be elaborately explained in the ensuing posts of the same blog. Please comment and tell us about other trails which can be explored nearby Bangalore.