The Roaming Shoes

It was around 10 pm when we both opened our eyes to the dimly lit surrounding. The world around us, cloaked in serene stillness, was occasionally interrupted by the distant barking of a dog.  Above, stars twinkled in a satin black canvas with white clouds floating by. In front us, the courtyard flanked by neatly manicured trees led to the entrance of the imposing monastery. And behind it, the silhouette of majestic mountains loomed, their regal forms outlined against the night sky. Here, within the walls of Dirang Monastery , nature, architecture, and spirituality coalesced into an extraordinary tapestry. Embraced by the meditative ambience, we had drifted into a trance, losing track of time. But as reality seeped in, gratitude surged within us for this profound experience. The opportunity to stay in the monastery guest house had opened doors into the spiritual realm that we had never imagined. And it still stands as a cherished highlight of our Arunachal Pradesh trip...

Bird watching has become a quintessential ritual of our trips over time. Whenever we have the opportunity to spot some feathered friends, we eagerly venture out with our camera and spend hours outdoors looking for them. Basically, in a team of two, I have been the spotter (my keen eyesight being our secret weapon) and Sush has been the one to capture these beauties through his camera lens. What began as a curious hobby has now spread its roots deeper and is gradually turning in to a heartfelt passion. Also, through moments of quiet observation, we’ve come to appreciate the remarkable intelligence and intricate behaviours exhibited by these winged creatures. On our recent trip to  Himachal Pradesh , as the Spring-Summer season embraced the region, we found ourselves amidst a flurry of avian activity. Early mornings and evenings, the air was filled with different bird calls and songs. Exploring the villages and adjacent woods close to both our accommodations, we were able to s...

It was 11:30 PM when the alarm jolted us awake, barely two hours into our sleep. Back home in India, this would normally be our bedtime, but we dragged ourselves from the comfort of our bed to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. It was time to head to Kawah Ijen, a long-time dream destination. With its turquoise blue crater lake, the famed Blue Fire, and the fact that Ijen is still an active volcano, it was everything our curious souls had been longing for. Read on to know more about this epic place and our unforgettable adventure. A Little about Mount Ijen Mount Ijen (pronounced ee-jen), located in East Java, Indonesia, is an active volcano that is part of the  Ijen UNESCO Global Geopark . It is home to  one of the most acidic crater lakes  in the world, with an enchanting turquoise colour. This remarkable site also features the rare and mesmerising  blue fire phenomenon , believed to be one of the only two places on Earth where it can be observed. The bl...

  Java  – This region of Indonesia has intrigued me for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Odisha, a state rich with maritime history in the eastern part of India, we were regaled with stories of ancient voyages from our homeland to Java, Bali, and Sumatra. At that time, I had no idea how Java would be like if I ever got to see it in person. Then Java happened on our 11th anniversary this year. And oh boy, what do I even say about this wondrous island. Not one, not two, but home to a myriad of natural wonders, Java gifted us many once-in-a lifetime experiences on this one trip.  In a handful of days, we watched a surreal sunrise over an active volcano, then hiked to a mountain under a sky full of stars to watch a super rare blue fire and an enchanting yet acidic volcanic crater lake, climbed down a challenging path to witness the most magnificent waterfall that looked straight out of the Avatar world; And met the warmest and the kindest people at ever...

The Enchanting Beauty of Yusmarg Yusmarg, nestled in the picturesque Kashmir valley, is a true paradise for nature lovers. Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush green meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, this hidden gem offers a serene and enchanting beauty that will leave you mesmerized. As you explore Yusmarg, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views at every turn, making it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and natural wonders. One of the highlights of Yusmarg is its pristine Doodh Ganga river, which flows through the valley, adding to its charm. The river is known for its milky white appearance, thanks to the frothy waters that flow over the rocky beds. You can take a leisurely stroll along the river banks, enjoying the soothing sound of water and the refreshing breeze. The surrounding dense forests of pine and fir trees further enhance the beauty of Yusmarg, creating a magical atmosphere that feels like a fairytale. Whether you're an adventure enthus...