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Birds of Himachal – A Photo Story of the Winged Beauties

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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 spot almos
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Experience the Thrill of Trekking Ijen Crater

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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 blue flames result fr
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Experience the magic of Java, Indonesia – Your Ultimate Travel Guide

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  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 every step who made us feel
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Beyond the Ordinary: Yusmarg's Charm in Kashmir

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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
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Of Strawberries, Stunning Views and Hidden Trails – Escape to Mahabaleswar and Panchgani

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  Moving farther from Pune, as we wound our way through the Ghats, the scenery unfolding before us was nothing short of breathtaking. The Sahyadri range sprawled gracefully beneath the azure sky, while a ribbon of bluish river meandered through the lush valley below. It was a scene straight out of a cherished childhood painting. As we drew nearer to the hill town, rows of strawberry vendors lined the roadside, offering luscious Red Strawberries. Over the next two days, Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani enveloped us in their magic, treating us to stunning vistas, the freshest strawberries, captivating tangerine sunsets, and secret trails untrodden by the tourist crowd. Here is everything you need to know to plan that special trip to Mahabaleswar and Panchgani. How many days are required for Mahabaleswar and Panchgani? 2-3 days are ideal if you are planning for both Mahabaleswar and Panchgani. Both places are hardly 15 kms apart and are like twin hill stations. So it is easier to cover bot
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Exploring Hassan: A Hidden Gem in Southern India

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  Discovering Architectural Wonders Hassan is home to a plethora of architecturally elaborate temples that are a treat for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The district is known for its stunning examples of ancient Indian craftsmanship, with intricate carvings and exquisite details adorning the temples. Exploring these architectural wonders is a must-do when visiting Hassan . One of the hidden gems in Hassan is the Windmill Temple, also known as Mavanuru Malleswara temple. Situated atop a hill and surrounded by mountains, lush greenery, and numerous windmills, this temple offers a unique and picturesque experience. A visit to the Windmill Temple during sunrise is highly recommended, as it provides a serene and peaceful ambiance. Another notable architectural wonder in Hassan is [insert name of another temple]. This temple showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region and is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Immersing in Loc
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Top things to do in Perhentian Kecil

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  Perhentian Islands have long been on our list ever since we came across it while searching for some good beach destinations. The crystalline water, the white sandy beaches and the towering greenery were enticing enough to make us add it to the top of our wishlist. Two years later, on our 6th wedding anniversary, we could not have selected a better place to visit amongst the Malaysia tourist attractions .  Perhentian Islands consist of 2 islands – the small one is called Perhentian Kecil and the bigger one is Perhentian Besar. Both islands are beautiful and you can never go wrong with your choice irrespective of whichever island you choose for your stay. We stayed at Perhentian Kecil and absolutely loved it. Top things to do Perhentian Kecil is the kind of place where you can spend days simply relaxing at the beach or enjoy your time swimming in the crystal clear water of the sea. But if you are more than just a relaxing person, then here is a list of top things to do in Perhent
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