tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81446468573791351542024-03-19T15:32:29.930+05:30Travel blogsPritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-15554110355403553712020-12-30T19:03:00.003+05:302021-05-04T09:30:52.783+05:30Hidden Gems of Konkan - Ganeshgule, Kasheli and unexplored area near Mervi <div style="text-align: left;"> The year 2020 was a covid-19 year. Everything was new for everyone and as covid cases go down, we all started with new normal life. Travelling and exploring new places is my passion. Considering the situation, we decided to arrange a small trip for relaxation and explore some untouched Konkan beaches. My first priority was to visit Ganeshgule as my friend owns a beautiful hotel and the place is always less crowded. Our (Me and Wife Renuka) close friend Himanshu-Ketki and their daughter, Ameya, Ashutosh-Sanjana, and their kids were co-travellers. Another couple Tushar-Neha joined us there as coincidently they were on their Ratnagiri trip.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQd-i7py7BCOYD7rEQEkQrSAmsS7z9Jk5Rhx7hcwM9pL7KQ7dhzm59ZPI61JZOd1s7ScnWAfCEJ42hgVyk6AOtMn2wArU8hZcBizMKQ6BEn3M-23pyNt9lqhhpA-wL-LqYfSZe7BEo7mOA/s2048/IMG_0157.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Devghali Beach or Kasheli Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQd-i7py7BCOYD7rEQEkQrSAmsS7z9Jk5Rhx7hcwM9pL7KQ7dhzm59ZPI61JZOd1s7ScnWAfCEJ42hgVyk6AOtMn2wArU8hZcBizMKQ6BEn3M-23pyNt9lqhhpA-wL-LqYfSZe7BEo7mOA/w640-h426/IMG_0157.JPG" title="Devghali Beach or Kasheli Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devghali Beach or Kasheli Beach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Ganeshgule, Kasheli, and surrounding places:</span></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div> Ganeshgule, a village few kilometres ahead of Pawas offers you a beautiful untouched beach. Not much explored by tourists hence it offers a sandy beach with crystal clear water. Ganeshgule beach is a km-long beach blocked by mountains on both sides. It offers you peace of mind & freedom to stroll and bath in the blue waters whenever you feel.</div><div>Ratnagiri city is the nearest port city to Ganeshgule on the Arabian Sea coast. It is a main city from the Konkan region and famous for its Alphonso Mangoes, Birthplace of “Lokmanaya” Bal Gangadhar Tilak, prime leader of India’s freedom movement, and Shivaji’s Fort. There are many tourist points in the Ratnagiri district that are blessed with untouched and beautiful beaches.</div><div><a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/search?q=Ratnagiri" target="_blank">Blog on Ratnagiri</a></div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">The route to reach Ganeshgule from Pune is –</span></u></b></div><div>Take National Highway 48 (Old Number 4) – Drive till Karad city on the highway – Cross Karad and drive for a few km – after Karad, look for the first flyover on the highway – Do not take flyover route – Take right below the flyover – Drive on State highway – Malkapur – Amba – Sakharpa – Pali (Do not confuse with Pali from Ashtavinayak locations) – Drive towards the south for few km on NH – Take left after crossing Patergaon – Ganeshgule.</div><div>Alternate route is Pune – Amba ghat – Sakharpa – Ratnagiri – Pawas – Ganeshgule.</div><div><br /></div><div>The total distance via this route is around 304km.</div><div><br /></div><div>Other routes are Tahmini – Mangaon – Mumbai Goa national highway OR </div><div>Pune – Umbraj – Koyanagar – Chiplun – Ratnagiri - Ganeshgule.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 1: 26 December 2020 - Pune to Ganeshgule</span></u></b></div><div> We woke up early in the morning and left home at 6 AM with our friends. We wanted to avoid the highway traffic and enjoy the morning breeze. Before Khambatki Ghat, we took a pit stop for Wada-pav at Shriram hotel. We decided to go by the Amba ghat route. After crossing Karad, we took right from the Amba ghat route. We had our lunch in Hotel Kasturi which is close to Amba ghat. Considering the number of travellers, there were multiple pit stops and we finally reached Ganeshgule by 4:30ish in the evening. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdCMmmiIqep5vIQ4DFNrksxYw_nuReT22UqfiwzD4Il76z0yxZxAQmtXel7rUxPsHBztmY2dJlnrQdIlPODURDFRvbWLF_g8YSd5tt9Axs5yDrbi1ptgjZVTl6ihu-nynRJR5gy8m0mlYW/s1600/GaneshGule_2015+059.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ganeshgule Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdCMmmiIqep5vIQ4DFNrksxYw_nuReT22UqfiwzD4Il76z0yxZxAQmtXel7rUxPsHBztmY2dJlnrQdIlPODURDFRvbWLF_g8YSd5tt9Axs5yDrbi1ptgjZVTl6ihu-nynRJR5gy8m0mlYW/w640-h426/GaneshGule_2015+059.jpg" title="Ganeshgule Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganeshgule Beach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> We reached Oceano Pearl home stay resort. The resort was a mixture of Konkani-modern style with a lot of greenery and with a huge farm of different trees (Wadi in Marathi) like Coconuts, Alphonso, and many more. They have AC rooms and one treehouse (Not in Function due to Covid and maintenance), close to the beach. Management and staff from the resort welcomed us with a smile. We booked 3 AC rooms which were cleaned with all required amenities. When we used to visit the Ganeshgule, there was not a single hotel but now there are a couple of more Homestay/hotels available</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnao8VhmxLHYHJILbBphqp9-Gtnzq2ATzrigcIl8xrVQH8A_aJXitlzjx9tawRQaVM8xX8Zzp5U8QIsXg76MkKt8qqS-xfCHlFsrP97LtERPqrJDslrmgs56EZga6fkv2LXFfohIxDjHQ/s2048/PXL_20201227_011807734.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Oceano Pearl resort" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnao8VhmxLHYHJILbBphqp9-Gtnzq2ATzrigcIl8xrVQH8A_aJXitlzjx9tawRQaVM8xX8Zzp5U8QIsXg76MkKt8qqS-xfCHlFsrP97LtERPqrJDslrmgs56EZga6fkv2LXFfohIxDjHQ/w640-h480/PXL_20201227_011807734.jpg" title="Oceano Pearl resort" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oceano Pearl resort</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> We took tea coffee and then went to the beach. Ganeshgule beach is around 1.5-2 km long beach and gives you a feel of a private beach. With white soft sand all over the beach, it was very neat and clean. Water was so clear that we were unable to stop ourselves from going into the water. It was a good evening to spend time with friends and their kids on the beach. We had our dinner in Oceano Pearl hotel before our day ends. Ashutosh and his family have stayed at the nearby homestay. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ryxzbtiOYqcTO9RtAnasr8D_CM9qa2xtj3jS_PlxzWQBqEk3t2m7bxyEBmNUpSavlFvlvVMbpqrjBN_VjuCBABAehFk7UH_5drD8dZMFhYcC6Otea1POKDBTG9gzzlrNnO-yt_5BRKrW/s2048/IMG_0052.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sunset from Ganeshgule Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ryxzbtiOYqcTO9RtAnasr8D_CM9qa2xtj3jS_PlxzWQBqEk3t2m7bxyEBmNUpSavlFvlvVMbpqrjBN_VjuCBABAehFk7UH_5drD8dZMFhYcC6Otea1POKDBTG9gzzlrNnO-yt_5BRKrW/w640-h426/IMG_0052.JPG" title="Sunset from Ganeshgule Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Ganeshgule Beach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Major Expenses:</span></u></b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Car Fuel: INR4000/-</li><li>Resort Stay: INR4000/- per Room per night for 3 people with breakfast</li><li>Lunch at Kasturi restaurant, Amba Ghat: INR160 for Veg Thali and INR200 for chicken Thali</li><li>Dinner: INR2700/- for 3 people with veg and seafood dishes.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 2: 27 December 2020 - Ganeshgule, Kasheli</span></u></b></div><div> We woke up early morning and went to the beach. Ganeshgule has a long, scenic, unexplored beach. Only we were on the beach with only the sea waves for a company and it was like we were on our private beach. We spent around an hour on the beach. There is a Small Mountain on the right side of the beach. It takes hardly 20 min to reach the top of the hill. The location of the rocky plateau on the mountain makes this place a perfect location for peace where you can only hear sea waves. One wave after another was seen on the rocky area as if they were trying to climb the rock to meet us. The location is covered by sea from 3 sides and a beautiful sunset on the horizon. The view of the sea from here is breathtaking and this is the best place to witness the sun on the horizon spreading orange-red colour all over the sky. This is one of my favourite places from the Konkan coastal area.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmOwywy9YCvqH3tBKdov2Ug0V2K6FzQ4uJq27_SLBnMAoppHbzgEPv-RFiUMniMq0HOSrg80jEZn1nuxownua1Rz33yPcikL-YMjlbZkosfrxzFzZXN32y8jvtb4Ld3nOLTW0sX30BV0m/s2048/IMG_0111.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmOwywy9YCvqH3tBKdov2Ug0V2K6FzQ4uJq27_SLBnMAoppHbzgEPv-RFiUMniMq0HOSrg80jEZn1nuxownua1Rz33yPcikL-YMjlbZkosfrxzFzZXN32y8jvtb4Ld3nOLTW0sX30BV0m/w640-h426/IMG_0111.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning Time on Beach</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEk4adhLKjkZaJsP1wuFR1YYhyphenhyphenfkZdwOHwuJ3SWSMb3uv0EoWcfqBbT1oMt_b_OVs2le-HNb3-HiNN4RlUWvJ8u6rwzB7e0VKrY6cJwrRQQIYhwRkzxpBeGSg__uTS3pkoSGj-7s3c6rr/s2048/PXL_20201227_022652945.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEk4adhLKjkZaJsP1wuFR1YYhyphenhyphenfkZdwOHwuJ3SWSMb3uv0EoWcfqBbT1oMt_b_OVs2le-HNb3-HiNN4RlUWvJ8u6rwzB7e0VKrY6cJwrRQQIYhwRkzxpBeGSg__uTS3pkoSGj-7s3c6rr/w640-h480/PXL_20201227_022652945.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div> We came back to the hotel for breakfast. Today we planned to visit Kasheli. Kasheli is a coastal village in the Ratnagiri District of Maharashtra, with a secluded, unexplored Devghali beach with an amazing view. Kasheli village is especially known for Shri Kanakaditya Temple. Distance from Ganeshgule is around 22km whereas 40-42km from Ratnagiri. </div><div> You can visit the Purnagad fort which is on the bank of the River. We skipped this place as we all visited earlier. On the way, we took a pit stop at Gaonkhadi beach. Beach is untouched, very cleaned, and maintained by villagers. No tourists and food stall which makes this place very clean and beautiful. The small hill is just aside from the beach so if you want to have a look at the entire beach then a small hill climbing can fulfil your wish. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1GyUJfwxgZaaDxi2eUKhvzsndt_pIsa8EwBP4c7-4Jks-URO9BOJVdmAaqiKn__jNYCkSmLf_V3uMW31HRjoc12h8Kcjs5Q5yogmSeD8tB9PPiGHVhjvmJzjS0RRdYnN_s6rxCsDVjWbo/s2048/IMG_0299.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1GyUJfwxgZaaDxi2eUKhvzsndt_pIsa8EwBP4c7-4Jks-URO9BOJVdmAaqiKn__jNYCkSmLf_V3uMW31HRjoc12h8Kcjs5Q5yogmSeD8tB9PPiGHVhjvmJzjS0RRdYnN_s6rxCsDVjWbo/w640-h426/IMG_0299.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Village near Gaonkhadi Beach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> We reached Kasheli and went to Temple. Sri Kanakaditya Temple is one of the few temples situated in Maharashtra that is dedicated to the Sun God. The idol from the temple is 800 years old and is made out of black stone. The temple is rustic with a big sabha-mandap of local architecture. There is a legend about the standing idol of Lord Sun in this Mandir, where a sailor from Saurashtra, carrying the idol of Lord Aditya in his boat, couldn’t sail beyond the sea waters of Kasheli. He had to leave the idol in a cave in the adjacent hills, wherefrom a lady devotee got messages about the idol’s location in her dreams and the villagers found the idol there.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBwVprXcesoRH1X1dFvqSwf3JXBROR_KWHXXtRwfriab-nQoYhcqcUqFv_98CGWGjFKmECt-5X1HXc3VfiCSrmaAbiuY-L2XSxrCFyUOucDdWj68QW_Sv96bcTOeRpvRmMOfdLG20cjnm/s2048/IMG_0133.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sri Kanakaditya Temple, Kasheli" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBwVprXcesoRH1X1dFvqSwf3JXBROR_KWHXXtRwfriab-nQoYhcqcUqFv_98CGWGjFKmECt-5X1HXc3VfiCSrmaAbiuY-L2XSxrCFyUOucDdWj68QW_Sv96bcTOeRpvRmMOfdLG20cjnm/w640-h426/IMG_0133.JPG" title="Sri Kanakaditya Temple, Kasheli" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sri Kanakaditya Temple, Kasheli</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> Our next spot was Devghali beach which is also popularly known as Kasheli beach. It is around 10-15 min away and you can reach the top of a mountain by car. There is no proper road built up till the parking point. You have to climb down to reach the beach. Beach is very small and nestled in between rocky shore. There is a small cave on one side of the Beach. There are proper steps laid to climb down. At the midpoint, the sunset viewpoint is built to enjoy the sunset. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R8LToJDV5TM" width="320" youtube-src-id="R8LToJDV5TM"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div> Beach has soft sand, clean water, and a well-maintained area. Better to avoid swimming in the water due to rocky areas and sudden depth in water. Soaking in water is definitely gives you a refreshing feel. We spend around 30-40 min on the beach. you may feel tired while climbing steps to the top. 2 local shops offer you local drink and water.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy9nH_4XZm4dxBbHHRHk787JQdbH7Nzc1ElPBXL0DbsSw5jFocvyPSsSj6pVLAhFThh-SC3d-5Xm3D1OdJDytj-OdaEzsUsYsevvzA-1ATuv5UtMEEkj0uKWTYGgYLXe4FijDf59tzNF3A/s2048/IMG_0172.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kasheli Beach or Devghali Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy9nH_4XZm4dxBbHHRHk787JQdbH7Nzc1ElPBXL0DbsSw5jFocvyPSsSj6pVLAhFThh-SC3d-5Xm3D1OdJDytj-OdaEzsUsYsevvzA-1ATuv5UtMEEkj0uKWTYGgYLXe4FijDf59tzNF3A/w640-h426/IMG_0172.JPG" title="Kasheli Beach or Devghali Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kasheli Beach or Devghali Beach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> We were hungry by the time we reach the top. We decided to stretch a bit and travel back to Pawas for lunch. We had our tasty lunch at the restaurant Aradhya. They serve tasty veg, non-veg, and seafood thali. After a delicious meal, we came back to the hotel. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVWmI7H-hRktmTyyHCum-Jq9UkeOvEmBgLTtkVgxq9089mZWFopDDxw5OVpiqocvThetBiAcH-ifWD7CrMxP1z25vPSmXSuq3I0cZ8fdlMb_DIOehw6GwZYi_o_q2WQJORN1gUOV0avB4/s2048/PXL_20201228_092941674+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVWmI7H-hRktmTyyHCum-Jq9UkeOvEmBgLTtkVgxq9089mZWFopDDxw5OVpiqocvThetBiAcH-ifWD7CrMxP1z25vPSmXSuq3I0cZ8fdlMb_DIOehw6GwZYi_o_q2WQJORN1gUOV0avB4/w640-h480/PXL_20201228_092941674+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seafood meal</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> We spend the evening on the beach. Kids were enjoying the making of sandcastle and sea waves. we witness the beautiful sunset from the beach and came back to the hotel. Today's dinner was planned at the Atharva cottage where Ashutosh and their family were staying. The food was good in taste. After dinner, we went back to the hotel for a rest.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gNEQJve1mIH-ZQrMae8PmzcK9k0xGLNjG_p5JRJn6b2j6d38uw90yKFKfBKrYj1FDepY2-G2xr8xW4Bk9iSeyiwsCKIAHJcen1fuLNHpPkla_uL2kfeg5wCMKzE2hmBgPU0-qI0QALHX/s2048/IMG_0174.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gNEQJve1mIH-ZQrMae8PmzcK9k0xGLNjG_p5JRJn6b2j6d38uw90yKFKfBKrYj1FDepY2-G2xr8xW4Bk9iSeyiwsCKIAHJcen1fuLNHpPkla_uL2kfeg5wCMKzE2hmBgPU0-qI0QALHX/w640-h426/IMG_0174.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Major Expenses:</span></u></b> </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lunch at Aradhya: INR1575/- for 9 people (Veg meal INR100, Chicken meal INR120, egg meal INR100, Kingfish meal INR350, Pomfret fish meal INR450)</li><li>Dinner at Atharva: Approx INR2500-3500/- for 9-10 people (veg and fish meal) along with Modak in Sweet</li></ul></div><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 3: 28 December 2020 - The unexplored area near Mervi </span></u></b></div><div> As part of our ritual, we woke up early and went to the beach for a morning walk. Post breakfast, We decided to explore the beach which is south of Mervi. Beach is not listed on google map and there is no road to reach the beach. We took Ameya's UV car which was a good option for off-roading. Our target was to explore 2 beaches, one on the north side of Mervi and another one on the south of Mervi. By the end of our exploration, we land upon exploring one beach whereas we spot the route for the second beach. (By the time my blog is published, someone tagged both beaches by the name Mervi which is not the case). I have shared a tentative GPS coordinate in case someone interested to visit. We Cross Jambhul aad village and then took right turn for Mervi Village. after a certain point, we left the road and started off-roading with XUV car. The entire area is a flat rocky plateau and then we climbed down to reach the beach. We saw an Indian wolf during our off-roading.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AfoV2a9Ywmo" width="320" youtube-src-id="AfoV2a9Ywmo"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eTesIFq0aVFk3t3rLuQqrIZU0Xt-q1Sx6Wlan-zxWTZ-fRMbWsE0D2VhL3F4V0tUSu5if9J4YrWxbetF3PVNNdlOKkkP89v_A_c1sV574dm7HjSIO7c-VwqYYku1_R7CuQa4abiKopeX/s2048/IMG_0281.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eTesIFq0aVFk3t3rLuQqrIZU0Xt-q1Sx6Wlan-zxWTZ-fRMbWsE0D2VhL3F4V0tUSu5if9J4YrWxbetF3PVNNdlOKkkP89v_A_c1sV574dm7HjSIO7c-VwqYYku1_R7CuQa4abiKopeX/w640-h426/IMG_0281.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Untouched Beach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div> We parked the car at a certain point and then climbed down the hill to reach the beach. There is no route/trail to climb down hence take proper care and mind your steps. Beach is small and rocky. Beach was flat and clean. There are plenty of rocky patches hence not recommended for swimming. It's not easily accessible for anyone. Kids are not recommended on this beach. As there is private property from where you can access this beach. Stepping down and again climbing up is not that easy for everyone. Indeed it was a wonderful treat for us to get this opportunity to visit this beach. You can take a walk on the north side of the beach to explore the next beach which looks like Om.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRp1oouLckokUdEN_PWFBP8dqwJSWEio3hcGYsE1lNGJFGl9hEew2pHMN_Puu_l0iTVPSiCHBdIvIrZ7PrrXlnfnjQXGrR3oAPd3oYVfpJ7fW3OvhMYbxudnmlFgCDbtjOl7d2QXV5m7c/s2048/IMG_0288.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRp1oouLckokUdEN_PWFBP8dqwJSWEio3hcGYsE1lNGJFGl9hEew2pHMN_Puu_l0iTVPSiCHBdIvIrZ7PrrXlnfnjQXGrR3oAPd3oYVfpJ7fW3OvhMYbxudnmlFgCDbtjOl7d2QXV5m7c/w640-h426/IMG_0288.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unknown beach near Mervi</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglv3_5Jy4P5Wra0o-UMMPC4XV1QUr2vUxccqa1ISPdFzwCe6K-tjF4lU1P9OJc8gyQDX8lVsFDpZQzCTuy4J7wbE0UNUjTjOVrlYW1wQkAe9Glf_p5K3kYk8xcs3foomyjncx7YhZ0sGaE/s2048/IMG_0290.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglv3_5Jy4P5Wra0o-UMMPC4XV1QUr2vUxccqa1ISPdFzwCe6K-tjF4lU1P9OJc8gyQDX8lVsFDpZQzCTuy4J7wbE0UNUjTjOVrlYW1wQkAe9Glf_p5K3kYk8xcs3foomyjncx7YhZ0sGaE/w640-h426/IMG_0290.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AhYu23a9Kvc" width="320" youtube-src-id="AhYu23a9Kvc"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div> After exploring this untouched beach, we travel back to Pawas for lunch. We had lunch at the restaurant Aradhya and did a quick visit to Pawas. Pawas is well known for the Ashram of Swami Swaroopanand and is a few km from Ganeshgule village. Pawas is a prime spiritual place in the Ratnagiri district due to a very long stay of Swami (saint) Swaroopanand. He was born on 15th December 1903 at Pawas. At the age of 20, he had received the initiation (Diksha) from his Guru Sadguru Babamaharaj Vaidya from Pune. From this point, his journey in the spiritual world had begun. At the age of 70, on 15th August 1974, Swamiji took Samadhi (self-immolation) at Pawas. The temple in Pawas is very clean and well maintained.</div></div><div> For evening time, we went to rocky hill from Ganeshgule beach. Watching the sunset from that point is a treat to the eye. After spending some time on the beach, We returned to the hotel and had dinner. It was a good relaxation break which we are looking for for a long time.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSgKeizGA_2bkgwr0XjOOBJ2xYAgbnfBKhH1dZu5YVap4_c_55vDi8SbI3ntkQqeOWj9VS0xYK-F5Hb3eGXmL6_fwGt0zyTQsFrQGU8rAQLwOnIKmKlWukCw6DntNgcwUkNOkOvcTGw0nG/s2048/IMG_0314.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSgKeizGA_2bkgwr0XjOOBJ2xYAgbnfBKhH1dZu5YVap4_c_55vDi8SbI3ntkQqeOWj9VS0xYK-F5Hb3eGXmL6_fwGt0zyTQsFrQGU8rAQLwOnIKmKlWukCw6DntNgcwUkNOkOvcTGw0nG/w640-h426/IMG_0314.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Ganeshgule Beach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Major Expenses:</span></u></b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lunch at Aradhya: Approx. INR 1300/- for 5 people</li><li>Dinner at Atharva: Approx INR1800/- for 8-9 people</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 4: 29 December 2020 - Ganeshgule - Pune</span></u></b></div><div><div> We left Ganeshgule via the Ratnagiri route by 11 AM. We took our small break at Ganeshgule temple. This temple is older than Ganpatipule. The Ganesh idol in the temple is the "Swayambhu" (i.e. formed naturally) idol with its trunk turned towards the west. The statue of the mouse in front of the temple is very beautiful and made up of metal alloy. You can see a beautiful valley view from the temple. There is an old ancient well opposite the temple. Local believes that Well was built in Pandava's era.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bRbMv_7r6FM" width="320" youtube-src-id="bRbMv_7r6FM"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA3eXvOEpaQA6mZqAHwLcEFa_Mhh48UR0drTYTzAZsJhOOToPmi-JDxN2q_cFv47eaxBinQVv0JFZZQo7Uhc_u0b3utu2W45wC207SbzUu20ekV-_t7ywBiGP1f0EHDEVUlRimvxWxYue-/s1600/Ratnagiri+trip_2014+121.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ganeshgule Ganesh Temple" border="0" data-original-height="1039" data-original-width="1600" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA3eXvOEpaQA6mZqAHwLcEFa_Mhh48UR0drTYTzAZsJhOOToPmi-JDxN2q_cFv47eaxBinQVv0JFZZQo7Uhc_u0b3utu2W45wC207SbzUu20ekV-_t7ywBiGP1f0EHDEVUlRimvxWxYue-/w640-h416/Ratnagiri+trip_2014+121.jpg" title="Ganeshgule Ganesh Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganeshgule Ganesh Temple</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>We travelled via Amba Ghat – National highway 4 and reached Pune safely by 10 PM</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">GPS locations:</span></u></b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Oceano Pearl beach homestay, Ganeshgule - 16.870456, 73.294762</li><li>Restaurant Aradhya: 16.875762, 73.323787</li><li>Kasheli Beach: 16.726635, 73.310179</li><li>North Mervi Beach : </li></ul></div></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;">Off-Roading start point - 16.836203, 73.306283</li><li>Car parking spot - 16.839083, 73.294883 (Note, you need a good ground clearance car to reach this point)</li><li>Beach - 16.838442, 73.294181</li></ol></div></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Contact Numbers for your References:</span></u></b></div><div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Oceano Pearl beach homestay at Ganeshgule: 02352-237800, 02352-219400, 8605599789, 9405340784</li><li>Restaurant Aradhya: 9168522797</li></ul></div></div><div><div>Thanks for reading this Travel Blog. Happy travelling.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div><div style="text-align: right;"><b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div></div></div>Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com43Ganeshgule, Maharashtra, India16.8711001 73.2946133-11.439133736178846 38.138363299999995 45.181333936178845 108.4508633tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-84700382875748657062020-02-16T23:00:00.000+05:302020-06-13T01:12:02.809+05:30Two Sisters State: Assam and Meghalaya: Part 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Amongst the ups and lows of life, between all challenges, one gets a sweet peaceful space which reenergizes life. This North-East was one such. It was a customized package tour by our well-wisher where I and Renu chalked day-wise itinerary with the help of holiday partner Prena travels. Considering the wedding anniversary's occasion, They Booked a trip to Assam and Meghalaya. This trip helped us to bounce back from our tough time.<br />
Travellers for this trip were Me and Wife Renuka.<br />
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To avoid the length of my travel blog, I have divided it into 2 parts. In this part, will like to share my travel experience at Shillong and Kaziranga.<br />
To read my previous Blog, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2020/02/two-sisters-state-assam-and-meghalaya.html" target="_blank">click on Two Sisters State: Assam and Meghalaya: Part 1</a><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Seven Sisters:</span></u></b><br />
7 States of India's North-east Part is known as Seven Sisters. Seven sister states are Assam (Dispur), Meghalaya (Shillong), Manipur (Imphal), Mizoram (Aizawl), Arunachal Pradesh (Itanagar), Nagaland (Kohima) and Tripura (Agartala). This name was used by journalist Jyoti Prasad Saikia in 1972. Seven States have similarity on Geographical, Economical and tribal culture. There are different views on the reason behind the name. But what I Feel is they are an integral part of India and blessed with lovely nature and rich culture.<br />
Our trip was focused on Assam and Meghalaya. Assam shared the state border to rest north-east state and hence it is known as Gateway to North-East India. Dispur is the capital of the state but Guwahati is the primary entry point for Assam. Assam is situated just below the eastern Himalaya foothill. The state is famous for tea, Silk, one-horned rhinoceros, tourism and culture.<br />
Meghalaya (Name meaning Home of Clouds) is a hilly state. Shillong is the capital of the state whereas Shillong is also known as Scotland of the East. Meghalaya is the wettest land of India with around 70% of the forest. The state offers you tourism throughout the year as per interest.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Our Day Wise plan:</span></u></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Day</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Date</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Trip Plan</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Stay</span></b></div>
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Day 1</div>
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09 February 2020</div>
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Pune to Guwahati via Kolkata.</div>
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Local Sightseen</div>
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Guwahati</div>
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Day 2</div>
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10 February 2020</div>
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Guwahati to Cherrapunji via Shillong.</div>
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Cherrapunji Sightseen</div>
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Sohra (Cherrapunji)</div>
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Day 3</div>
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11 February 2020</div>
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Double-decker Live root Bridge & Rainbow fall trek.</div>
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Shillong</div>
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Day 4</div>
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12 February 2020</div>
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Dawki River and Mawlynnong Village</div>
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Shillong</div>
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Day 5</div>
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13 February 2020</div>
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Local Sightseen</div>
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Shillong</div>
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Day 6</div>
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14 February 2020</div>
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Shillong to Kaziranga and local Sightseen</div>
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Kaziranga</div>
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Day 7</div>
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15 February 2020</div>
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Forest Safari and then Back to Guwahati</div>
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Guwahati</div>
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Day 8</div>
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16 February 2020</div>
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Local sightseen, Evening flight to Pune</div>
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Pune</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOpeSonjBwHP74ke07sZ7N2Qa3yNVVMUwfhrqvnI25sZzr4tRo6IxgNi9uMA5L5AV6SMdb5HLTnOmCcz1-mGmXU9eEMI7T4E98KRSSwkAwfx-wjN8t0lDiNTIz7U4C0gUBd-iiih41VOZ/s1600/00000IMG_00000_BURST20200212120325826_COVER.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOpeSonjBwHP74ke07sZ7N2Qa3yNVVMUwfhrqvnI25sZzr4tRo6IxgNi9uMA5L5AV6SMdb5HLTnOmCcz1-mGmXU9eEMI7T4E98KRSSwkAwfx-wjN8t0lDiNTIz7U4C0gUBd-iiih41VOZ/s400/00000IMG_00000_BURST20200212120325826_COVER.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two Sisters</td></tr>
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To read my previous Blog, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2020/02/two-sisters-state-assam-and-meghalaya.html" target="_blank">click on Two Sisters State: Assam and Meghalaya: Part 1</a><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 4: 12 Feb 2020: Dawki and Mawlynnong:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up by 7AM and had a tasty breakfast in the hotel. We spend some time in their garden which was beautifully decorated with a variety of flowers. Our driver came by 8:30AM and we left Shillong for our planned sightseen. Our first destination was Umngot River from Dawki (it is famous by name Dawki river). The entire journey was in Ghat with smooth and wide road. Road gets Narrow near Imngot river. We took a pit stop at Latara viewpoint. After a quick coffee break and photo, we left for our first destination.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrLQso5_rS0mrfGr4ldiKonNfQc5meanAndsotiMMbZ9NVdiGhsix0g0eg84vJnj0uvGOFOD7zcQc0KBxC3Pu00GE9qa5XWXTtzNPlpIHw-C8AAMXSMbmWcfiCxkcfavZg52Nq5obn_rWY/s1600/_1033271.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrLQso5_rS0mrfGr4ldiKonNfQc5meanAndsotiMMbZ9NVdiGhsix0g0eg84vJnj0uvGOFOD7zcQc0KBxC3Pu00GE9qa5XWXTtzNPlpIHw-C8AAMXSMbmWcfiCxkcfavZg52Nq5obn_rWY/s640/_1033271.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Latara View Point</td></tr>
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We reached our first destination i.e. Umngot River by 11AM. It is considered to be one of the cleanest Rivers of India. When we reached the Umngot River, our Car driver booked a boat ride. You can see Bangaladesh land on the other side of the River. Many Bangladeshi people came on the riverside (from their part) for either picnic or to sell food items to Indian people those are on a boat ride. We spend around an hour for a ride which was good but definitely not to add in the must-to-do list. Our boatman took us on Bangaladesh side (might be their routine, so we may buy products) but we were not interested and came back. River water is very clear and you can see the river bed easily. Too many boats for a ride looks worry point for us even though all boats are Non-Motorised.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oRFwarL_bTOe2bAdK7Qss5I7DaSW4E9HBwSmGXcCdNKrIUq3DhHZuMfYbF6Dx4uiF5S6XjnJ2gwwWJ33BSMUG1Y2Zm83siBhmGUL0iJHI2gRYPWerRJH_8o3M0N8SbDDuPAs-Ey9VY_E/s1600/00000IMG_00000_BURST20200212124818535_COVER.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Umngot River" border="0" data-original-height="1090" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oRFwarL_bTOe2bAdK7Qss5I7DaSW4E9HBwSmGXcCdNKrIUq3DhHZuMfYbF6Dx4uiF5S6XjnJ2gwwWJ33BSMUG1Y2Zm83siBhmGUL0iJHI2gRYPWerRJH_8o3M0N8SbDDuPAs-Ey9VY_E/s640/00000IMG_00000_BURST20200212124818535_COVER.jpg" title="Umngot River" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Umngot River</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4l7xsGPbCUhhkXmnawC5EqPi-t20gSkzkHgS3tkK2UO3o2P92HZXnpjyiCJRc_XS_JcmBwLnm9Ojl8Wf-G1kNFcUYVCHp9vUu-b1_cL-R_2L7i49WLTjw_fCaET9BbRCkIw9hcmAUl-aC/s1600/IMG_9635.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4l7xsGPbCUhhkXmnawC5EqPi-t20gSkzkHgS3tkK2UO3o2P92HZXnpjyiCJRc_XS_JcmBwLnm9Ojl8Wf-G1kNFcUYVCHp9vUu-b1_cL-R_2L7i49WLTjw_fCaET9BbRCkIw9hcmAUl-aC/s640/IMG_9635.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Umngot River...a.k.a Dawki River</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdilu_BZoeJejBaOn8VnREE_A87wno3Mu7fNUkhhatfK3JFDHeZaWObh6nmIUObXKMKgAUiSvqeJJ4M3MmauYASSRbtVGhW4jXMBpjCMapkL2vVIjZo7KLUDdMu4lpp5z6b9zp2MAe3l5/s1600/_1033365.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdilu_BZoeJejBaOn8VnREE_A87wno3Mu7fNUkhhatfK3JFDHeZaWObh6nmIUObXKMKgAUiSvqeJJ4M3MmauYASSRbtVGhW4jXMBpjCMapkL2vVIjZo7KLUDdMu4lpp5z6b9zp2MAe3l5/s640/_1033365.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bangladesh Land across Umngot River</td></tr>
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After the Umngot River visit, we headed towards Dawki-Tamabil check post which is crossing the border between India and Bangladesh. This border is used to transport coal and stone to Bangladesh. We took some photographs at the border check post and had word with our brave BSF. We had been to Wagha border, Border Pillar No 609 from Rajasthan (India-Pak Check post which not allowed for civilians) and visited another border check post.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrZXgy6idGsSCrS4dtyCbzsw61zXmccjV3EAE2Qn0aw_bmrAnJVYCrWdjvr37Z6oMhYEMmy1uBCQnM4Gk9KVlIr0EQR-DeWkeCcKGnNNUzBUGHAVTFTDImVICgfuzGy2hK-t57jLRziLP/s1600/IMG_20200212_133909.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1229" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrZXgy6idGsSCrS4dtyCbzsw61zXmccjV3EAE2Qn0aw_bmrAnJVYCrWdjvr37Z6oMhYEMmy1uBCQnM4Gk9KVlIr0EQR-DeWkeCcKGnNNUzBUGHAVTFTDImVICgfuzGy2hK-t57jLRziLP/s640/IMG_20200212_133909.jpg" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At India-Bangladesh Border</td></tr>
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We took our Lunch at Ka Bri War restaurant which was suggested by the driver. Panjabi food was tasty with quick service. Post Lunch, we visited Mawlynnong Village. The road leading to the village was not very smooth whereas road construction was in progress. Though the roads in the Village was clean and very smooth. Mawlynnong Village won the cleanest Village of India award in the year 2005. Till date, the village is considered as one of the cleanest villages. The village was maintained very well and all most all home from village offers Homestay. To maintain its clean village status and high tourist flow, they made a lot of changes in the village due to which it looks artificial. Many homes are converted into a bungalow which lost the charm of Khasi Village. If you are seeking for peace then you can prefer to stay in the village. More or less, you will find Meghalaya's villages are pretty clean. No regrates even if you miss this place.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUZPacjarh0qU-xOZhTp_SWAwRgws7cDBlUPYFHfWODR7TiRIs9ypbqVFcMM68dG5fnctDeCmB9nC7dK4ShuTqdQBKi_vgcu_Bpd4iN_F5gC0jHckw_vKiZ26ue3iWxSm5qQuXNFAhy4vD/s1600/_1033371.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mawlynnong Village" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUZPacjarh0qU-xOZhTp_SWAwRgws7cDBlUPYFHfWODR7TiRIs9ypbqVFcMM68dG5fnctDeCmB9nC7dK4ShuTqdQBKi_vgcu_Bpd4iN_F5gC0jHckw_vKiZ26ue3iWxSm5qQuXNFAhy4vD/s640/_1033371.JPG" title="Mawlynnong Village" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mawlynnong Village</td></tr>
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After Mawlynnong Visit, we started our return journey to Shillong. We took a pit stop at Balance rock viewpoint. It is large size rock perfectly balanced on a small-sized rock. There is an entry fee to view the Balancing Rock. Our driver Suggested one more point i.e. Nohwet Live root bridge. It is mainly known as Mawlynnong Bridge but it is actually in Nohwet Village. Though we had visited unique and wonderful Double-decker and single live root bridge at Sohra (Cherapunjji) we decided to visit this Live root bridge as well. It just required 10-15 min of a climb down trail hence popular in tourists. The root bridge is wide and sturdy. There is no stopping on the root bridge for pictures. They have a second parallel bridge constructed next to the root bridge, where you can stop and take pictures. There are plenty of shops to buy snacks and gift crafts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgskMrcA3aMcIGP86LIKXIzT7Bi5qD9R5j7oi7ImINHT7k3rBgKfYczBQdHxorjiFI9VqT2br0ZaTAz5imWiJF_I2ylm_ByPyNyziMRlbavMyGyfnORChaQE-d_yVak7zQ8LnudWsXqsuFZ/s1600/_1033374.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgskMrcA3aMcIGP86LIKXIzT7Bi5qD9R5j7oi7ImINHT7k3rBgKfYczBQdHxorjiFI9VqT2br0ZaTAz5imWiJF_I2ylm_ByPyNyziMRlbavMyGyfnORChaQE-d_yVak7zQ8LnudWsXqsuFZ/s640/_1033374.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balance Rock</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJUpbt2rLhIJjAjW-bO0QyzK8BkpqAwzre9buAJSwnQG0b7euCsEX59EgvzWE9m4uSYO7sVcO2s0Oy1o5-T06ZPB8ssP08Tw_G1HawcHjAAIBbTw8NGu17vU54tnjYP14WFazPS20v14P/s1600/_1033376.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJUpbt2rLhIJjAjW-bO0QyzK8BkpqAwzre9buAJSwnQG0b7euCsEX59EgvzWE9m4uSYO7sVcO2s0Oy1o5-T06ZPB8ssP08Tw_G1HawcHjAAIBbTw8NGu17vU54tnjYP14WFazPS20v14P/s640/_1033376.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live Root Bridge</td></tr>
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We started our journey to Shillong and reach by 6PM. We took a stroll at Police Bazar (Market) for some local item shopping. The market is also famous for local street food, although we didn't try any dish. We did some shopping and had our dinner at City hut family Dhaba restaurant. We loved the ambience and food. We celebrated our wedding anniversary with tasty pastry and went to the hotel for rest.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 4 Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>View-Point entry (Latara Fall): INR 20/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Khasi Dress rent: INR 200/- for 2 dress (Male and Female) without print Photo.</li>
<li>Dawki Boating (Long Ride): INR 1200/-</li>
<li>Tip to boatman: INR 70/- (Its an optional)</li>
<li>Lunch at Ka Bri War: INR 581/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Mawlynnong Village Parking: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Balance Rock point: INR 20/- for 2 people.</li>
<li>Live Root Bridge parking: INR 30/-</li>
<li>Live Root Bridge entry: INR 80/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Live Root Bridge Camera: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Chicken Momo at Stall: 60/- for the dish (6 pics)</li>
<li>Dinner at City Hut family Dhaba: INR 926/- for 2 people. (Starter, soup, Veg and Non-veg Momo, cold drink, 3 types of dessert cakes)</li>
<li>Cab to Hotel: INR 140/- (Normal rate for this distance is INR 100)</li>
</ul>
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u><br /></u></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Day 5: 13 Feb 2020: Shillong Sightseen:</u></span></b><br />
We kept a few points for sightseen so we can have some rest and time for local shopping. We left for sightseeing after breakfast. Our first point was Shillong viewpoint. It is around 10-11 km away from Shillong market. This place comes under Indian Airforce so you have to clear security checks. After security checkpoint, photography is not allowed whereas you can use your camera at Shillong viewpoint. The viewpoint gives a spectacular bird's eye view of Shillong. The city looks most attractive from here only when the sky is clear. There are many local shops for snacks, traditional clothes and souvenirs at the viewpoint area.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZI6wA_5Gx72Oq-lqJ8jxSmscYwStDXiXxmtBU7umc4UDDjEnb9-jwzDCde2uvFl1HwXGKIOBnKu1Ie7cpKsoI_hXjd7p9AGM5lRQ1kOyrC39U9WCKCWUKBPOVxSF-JUu_jnlRJ3-5YWmx/s1600/IMG_20200213_093220-PANO.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="703" data-original-width="1600" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZI6wA_5Gx72Oq-lqJ8jxSmscYwStDXiXxmtBU7umc4UDDjEnb9-jwzDCde2uvFl1HwXGKIOBnKu1Ie7cpKsoI_hXjd7p9AGM5lRQ1kOyrC39U9WCKCWUKBPOVxSF-JUu_jnlRJ3-5YWmx/s640/IMG_20200213_093220-PANO.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shillong View Point</td></tr>
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Our next destination was a sacred forest. It is around 25-26 km from Shillong. When we reached there, there was a vast stretch of open land and on its another end vast tall green canvas as if someone has drawn it to the scale in a straight line. It is also known as Mawphlang Sacred forest ( maw = stone, phlang = grass) which means Stone Grass. It is because due to heavy rains, high moisture and heavy morning dew, every rock and the rocky surface have a very thick coating of green moss which appears grass growing on the stones. There are two types of forest trails available with guides as a Half trail (30 Min) and full trail (1 hour). we took the full trail of 1 hour and our guide was Kerri Mame (A high school talkative smart boy)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXMWUnG6a0XXhDSjm1YIT3MCJOcC4M0b4j7zL86baK8dpNf9S8FwJmjjZD7srI6sUQjLOenMlkR0FB9wnWhY5iwcIeZIA0L7aEobTZzNVsguPTuzUPLY2nW8XVwn0huA2TE2wnq2kKUjA/s1600/_1033399.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXMWUnG6a0XXhDSjm1YIT3MCJOcC4M0b4j7zL86baK8dpNf9S8FwJmjjZD7srI6sUQjLOenMlkR0FB9wnWhY5iwcIeZIA0L7aEobTZzNVsguPTuzUPLY2nW8XVwn0huA2TE2wnq2kKUjA/s640/_1033399.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing Stone represents Khasi men whereas Flat Stone represents Khasi Woman</td></tr>
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The forest is considered sacred by Khasi people. Gods are given sacrificial offerings at specific places by Khasi King marked by stones placed in a circle. During that era, if leopard appears after gods deity then it was considered as a good omen and if snacks appear in the forest then its bad Oman. No forest produce or product can be taken out of the forest though now local people started selling Rudraksha at the ticket counter. They believe that only Rudraksha is safe to take home as it is a blessing of God. The nature trail is beautiful. There are many varieties of trees which guide explains you during the trial. The guide was an enthusiastic photographer and took our pics using leaves and forest backgrounds. Weather was cloudy with freezing wind when we were about to finish the trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbJaswJp3ODUtB8974qKKyK8kX8REOUfSg4Z-MJaIP20mqjqdBiJWJOZzcmwrK4ZYMKYQ_byMXtb7LrV4W2rpGOzFcRLD63I9d7sS-IdQIvQku1DtrL0wxh99yFDOxe_pZ_cwjS0ANYK_/s1600/_1033416.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbJaswJp3ODUtB8974qKKyK8kX8REOUfSg4Z-MJaIP20mqjqdBiJWJOZzcmwrK4ZYMKYQ_byMXtb7LrV4W2rpGOzFcRLD63I9d7sS-IdQIvQku1DtrL0wxh99yFDOxe_pZ_cwjS0ANYK_/s640/_1033416.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sacrificial Offering place inside Forest</td></tr>
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We started our return journey to Shillong. Air force Museum was the next destination but we skipped it. The museum has old Indian air force's aircraft at display in open space. We reached Shillong during Lunch time as we had lunch at Bamboo Hut restaurant. Food was good in the taste. We went to the hotel for some rest in the afternoon. Shillong has a museum named Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous culture which presents the tribal culture and cultural history of the northeast. The museum features an impressive collection of indigenous articles and artefacts that depict the cultural richness of the region which gives overlook to the whole of North East India. The museum has seven floors and encompasses a total of 17 galleries that have artefacts, paintings, figures, sculptures, and much more on display. You need at least 2 hours to view the entire place.</div>
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Ward's Lake is an artificial lake with a beautiful garden and walkways around it. There is also a boating facility available. Small Cafeteria is available which sells snacks and juices. After a quick visit to Ward's Lake, We went to Police Bazar (Main market place of Shillong) for shopping. You can buy local stuff, souvenirs, Cloths and many more item. All items are at High price so your bargaining power matters a lot to buy anything in Market. We purchased some local items from Emporium and had our dinner in the nearby restaurant. </div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 5 Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Shillong Viewpoint Entry: INR 60/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Shillong viewpoint car parking: INR 30/-</li>
<li>Sacred Forest parking: INR 30/-</li>
<li>Sacred Forest entry: INR 20/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Sacred Forest camera: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Sacred Forest trail Chargers: INR 500/- for the full trail (INR300 for the half trail)</li>
<li>Lunch at Bamboo Hut, Shillong: INR 734/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Taxi to Market: INR 120/-</li>
<li>Ward's Lake Entry: INR 10 per person</li>
<li>Dinner: INR 525/-</li>
<li>Taxi to Hotel: INR 120/-</li>
</ul>
<br /><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Day 6: 13 Feb 2020: Shillong - Kaziranga:</u></span></b><br />
We left Shilong by 9AM after breakfast. Today our plan was to reach Kaziranga before Sunset. Distance between Shillong and Kaziranga is around 260km. We took a pit stop at Umain Lake viewpoint. When we entered Assam, the road becomes wider and smooth. We took halt for lunch at Anurag Dhaba. It serves Delius Assami veg and non-veg meal. The ambience is simple and the restaurant was clean.<br />
After a few hours of drive, we entered in Kaziranga area. You may spot rhinoceros in the open fields. For safety, there is electric fencing on both sides of the highway. We stopped at one point which was around 15-20km before Kaziranga. We saw 3 rhino and wetland birds. After a quick 15-20 min break, we move ahead. we Reached Kaziranga national orchid and biodiversity park. Due to lack of time (orchid and biodiversity park closed at 5PM) we decided to see a few sections. Orchid and Biodiversity Park is located at the distance of about 2 km from the Central Range of Kaziranga. The park is spread in the area of around 6 acres and is considered as the largest orchid park in the Northeast belt of India. has different sections. Each section has guides who will explain to you the exhibits free of cost. The Orchid Park has more than 600 varieties of wild orchids of northeast Indian states. The whole variety of orchids is preserved in a greenhouse together with some hybrid varieties; some of them have been exclusively collected from the local region of the state. There are various galleries depicting local plants, animals, living style, culture etc, which is really a matter of attraction for tourist. We purchased an evening dance show ticket which starts at 8PM.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8F2wWfDoPgHBAuZi4UKdcMnN5hI7uBdHBmIBTwYRZEXm1UDBDFZJtk9IavSJPAmdqhALzOFbZU2hEIYmEcZDohtOx-00cUcb1plxBcktj0tvFo00HTQxgr0BSJQ5UGviR8Mg3cShTw6P/s1600/_1033547.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Orchid Park, Kaziranga" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8F2wWfDoPgHBAuZi4UKdcMnN5hI7uBdHBmIBTwYRZEXm1UDBDFZJtk9IavSJPAmdqhALzOFbZU2hEIYmEcZDohtOx-00cUcb1plxBcktj0tvFo00HTQxgr0BSJQ5UGviR8Mg3cShTw6P/s640/_1033547.JPG" title="Orchid Park, Kaziranga" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orchid Park</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zM8naQ9gPxbQcojKY35uhlGADfqLN2b6Dgc7h2P_pylspuCSbMaIquZWETetia5qi9RNpYwbTNO_d4q1MwpWOrd57THjQ3q8W59SDe94UHOlY9iO1ADuFDHuM5kiMRY0fJCfQ4bQ1wKS/s1600/_1033551.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Orchid Park, Kaziranga" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zM8naQ9gPxbQcojKY35uhlGADfqLN2b6Dgc7h2P_pylspuCSbMaIquZWETetia5qi9RNpYwbTNO_d4q1MwpWOrd57THjQ3q8W59SDe94UHOlY9iO1ADuFDHuM5kiMRY0fJCfQ4bQ1wKS/s640/_1033551.JPG" title="Orchid Park, Kaziranga" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orchid Park, Kaziranga </td></tr>
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We return to our hotel for the check-in process. We booked Tent stay at Mandu the escape hotel. The hotel was newly built. Property is beautiful and well maintained. Tents were clean with all the required facilities. After some rest and Coffee, We left for Culture dance show at Orchid and Biodiversity Park. Culture show performed by professional locals was fabulous. We really like the show. There were 7-8 types of cultural dance which ends with traditional Bihu dance.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ575o4VOqOsj-wsgUxqiOfYa8SfSJwIyQSexR0bLhrjhkHFVypXvsF0KXMq9YA3q9Joj01deYh1xrjJXMAA60ogCmvVVgc4Hj50RU1uLwXddBwWk7OwA7Fd207Xa43Hk9LE2Yo5XY2jpM/s1600/IMG_20200214_184226.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ575o4VOqOsj-wsgUxqiOfYa8SfSJwIyQSexR0bLhrjhkHFVypXvsF0KXMq9YA3q9Joj01deYh1xrjJXMAA60ogCmvVVgc4Hj50RU1uLwXddBwWk7OwA7Fd207Xa43Hk9LE2Yo5XY2jpM/s400/IMG_20200214_184226.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assamese Instrumental</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoAyhT_Q4ppZlFyXMXEohLPs3-MzcgBJCKYzC2F4DBPux0VB6TwTQeTKNAo-03etOTGQdeTQDopQLxyUvQ26h80zCg6pksDbAses5dmMRRotcxJjFp6Q-Fu41dLtQHSGN4bZ9SPtU_pAn/s1600/IMG_20200214_192110.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoAyhT_Q4ppZlFyXMXEohLPs3-MzcgBJCKYzC2F4DBPux0VB6TwTQeTKNAo-03etOTGQdeTQDopQLxyUvQ26h80zCg6pksDbAses5dmMRRotcxJjFp6Q-Fu41dLtQHSGN4bZ9SPtU_pAn/s400/IMG_20200214_192110.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bamboo folk Dance</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJx9_sdooZCuj_J33wz04s-R6cNk7-7uYEhb9YO-enTG_K0HOE6CV0-TsmvcWjoThMHKHqVcSD9N7W8l4IV96Ujr9zCVmbuXdR_AVipTcHDqzuPNaFPf9LJz6A-gSLA478rOLNQkx8SY4/s1600/_1033571.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJx9_sdooZCuj_J33wz04s-R6cNk7-7uYEhb9YO-enTG_K0HOE6CV0-TsmvcWjoThMHKHqVcSD9N7W8l4IV96Ujr9zCVmbuXdR_AVipTcHDqzuPNaFPf9LJz6A-gSLA478rOLNQkx8SY4/s400/_1033571.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bihu Folk Dance</td></tr>
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After the lovely performance, we came back to the hotel where our dinner was ready. They served our ordered dinner outside the tent. Weather was cold but the heater inside the tent helped for better sleep. we slept early as we booked 6AM Elephant Safari followed by 8:30AM Jeep safari.<br />
<br /><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 6 Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Tip in Shillong Hotel staff: INR 200/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Anurag Dhaba: INR 650/- (1 Veg meal, 1 Duck meal, cold drink and sweet dish)</li>
<li>Orchid & Biodiversity Park entry: INR 200/- for 2 (130 per head entry)</li>
<li>Orchid & Biodiversity Park Camera: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Orchid & Biodiversity Park Car parking: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Culture Show: INR 400/- for 2 Tickets.</li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Day 7: 14 Feb 2020: Kaziranga - Guwahati:</u></span></b><br />
We got the wake-up call by the Hotel staff at 4AM. We had lots of forest safari's in the past 7-8 years that we are used for an early wake-up schedule. Our driver came to the hotel by 5AM for pick up. Before 6AM we were at the starting point of Elephant Safari. This was our first safari experience on the elephant.<br />
Best Time to visit Kaziranga is from November to March. The park can also be visited from April to June but those months are a lot hotter and can make exploring the park much more tedious. Forest is not accessible during the rainy season from June to August. During this season, the monsoon is in full swing and causes the nearby Brahmaputra River floods its banks, sending water flowing into the park. Kaziranga National Park enjoys a tropical climate for most of the year. In total, the park is home to 2,400 plus one-horned rhinos and 100 plus tigers.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUU_DlsZrYAPpjNBhGvsuAspJnAKqwIdGgjMrSKFq2J4ND85GTnFWgKIkdEEeFAKYKwhDVoBHz5TDU0cqQXU8DxYRz4eX0_v0jpz7VeBMYQXaN6Qe-743TkwxBk-uzyTGSvsFPlEIY7N-8/s1600/IMG_20200215_090651.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUU_DlsZrYAPpjNBhGvsuAspJnAKqwIdGgjMrSKFq2J4ND85GTnFWgKIkdEEeFAKYKwhDVoBHz5TDU0cqQXU8DxYRz4eX0_v0jpz7VeBMYQXaN6Qe-743TkwxBk-uzyTGSvsFPlEIY7N-8/s640/IMG_20200215_090651.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to Kaziranga National Park</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqe6RIasF8wUA8MBPE_vKpMe8PBpz-_4AyLeRtyUupyy9jvfhyC4-l9IHyjBu6iBcVbMELBATd1mhyjTYT0EZGmgFzyqpWfrSpQJeavHKEH45VCAt27uoQ99G7Sx50KkF8bJDZW8B1YPFj/s1600/_1033676.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kaziranga Forest" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqe6RIasF8wUA8MBPE_vKpMe8PBpz-_4AyLeRtyUupyy9jvfhyC4-l9IHyjBu6iBcVbMELBATd1mhyjTYT0EZGmgFzyqpWfrSpQJeavHKEH45VCAt27uoQ99G7Sx50KkF8bJDZW8B1YPFj/s640/_1033676.JPG" title="Kaziranga Forest" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kaziranga Forest</td></tr>
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Total 4 people can seat on elephant for safari. Safari time around 45 to 60 min and their target is to roam around 3-4 km from starting point to spot the Rhino. They take you very close to Rhino and then back to start point via some different route. They are least bother to show other wildlife during elephant safari. The ride is definitely not smooth due to elephant walk on an uneven surface. We spot around 5-6 Rhino in elephant Safari. There were a mother and calf Rhino which we saw from a very close distance. Rhinos were busy with their routine activity and nothing disturbed them just like elephant safaris are now part of their life. We return to the start point by 7AM. Personally, we didn't like the elephant safari for 2 reasons. one, Elephant rider hit the elephant with the Bamboo rod if they fail to follow a command or take extra time to pick some plant branches/Fruits from Trees. and second is you hardly get a chance to see/capture other wildlife.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLMmeQxuzd0wrEuVdbQvuJWvPw8DBDSr_tRRVx71gy2CWdgJIC6jXwP2BlidaG-Hn7Yqo-rxBw2lnFv4Qh-hnYC1XD23Fsfcgb9cvNcdXpjIv2pEYDVXKyfE2sltkxUH1Hj_ZIw9fQVk1F/s1600/IMG_9849.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLMmeQxuzd0wrEuVdbQvuJWvPw8DBDSr_tRRVx71gy2CWdgJIC6jXwP2BlidaG-Hn7Yqo-rxBw2lnFv4Qh-hnYC1XD23Fsfcgb9cvNcdXpjIv2pEYDVXKyfE2sltkxUH1Hj_ZIw9fQVk1F/s640/IMG_9849.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rhino</td></tr>
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We came back to the hotel for breakfast. After Breakfast, our Safari Jeep came to pick up us for our planned safari. Our safari was booked in Central zone of Kaziranga. Even though Rhino and Tiger was the main attraction for us, we were not fixated on stars like tigers; other inhabitants of the forests were a delight to observe too. It was a cold morning and the entire zone was in silent mode. After the security check at the post, We entered the Forest. Kaziranga forest mainly inclusive of vast tall elephant grass, marshland, and dense tropical moist broadleaf forests, and the numerous small bodies of water.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZP6kn5ZEh74o5ziHFXifjmC3MLSZRVMfHpZzCeWHWMIyuVI8DAILPZbQ7iu_4lluRBvS3LbTNF_23QvjhxTbc7l4QHLyCzvxi-GC_OWP_TJ7QnA-swCqJhFuuqIFKJ8MlPyc0JwGoLjtw/s1600/IMG_9869.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZP6kn5ZEh74o5ziHFXifjmC3MLSZRVMfHpZzCeWHWMIyuVI8DAILPZbQ7iu_4lluRBvS3LbTNF_23QvjhxTbc7l4QHLyCzvxi-GC_OWP_TJ7QnA-swCqJhFuuqIFKJ8MlPyc0JwGoLjtw/s640/IMG_9869.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serpent Eagle</td></tr>
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Forest landscape was beautiful. forest route goes through a different part of the forest. We saw many groups of Hog Deer and wild water buffalo. After a few kilometres, we saw Rhino. Spotting Rhino is quite easy in Kaziranga forest. Rhinoceros are majestic animal.<br />
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When I saw them for the first time, I just kept on looking and I could not able to move my eyesight. His skin folds across its flanks give it look of the armour-plated body. The horn that they have is actually a thick substance made up of keratin (Hair and Nail like material). It grows throughout life and can be regrown if broken. It is considered to have medicinal properties. That is a reason why they are poached and it is a reason behind them getting endangered. As a habit, they follow regular paths and defecate at the same place creating piles of dung. This makes it easy for poachers to find out their location and hunt them down.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNnXJhRf2GxiZEsSnbULJvmHX1aNFx1vHWq08bDk1tcg7gLTtkyzPV3Bw4lgDmu9ELk1clzybPe9PdyWN3sV5q0nealZ9NmmCguzXv3c6vW2gWQwP0476sVMUbeBmEeotWdY3z2HkzkKU/s1600/IMG_9715.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNnXJhRf2GxiZEsSnbULJvmHX1aNFx1vHWq08bDk1tcg7gLTtkyzPV3Bw4lgDmu9ELk1clzybPe9PdyWN3sV5q0nealZ9NmmCguzXv3c6vW2gWQwP0476sVMUbeBmEeotWdY3z2HkzkKU/s640/IMG_9715.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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During Safri, Driver/Guide will drop you off at certain lookout points. You can view open marshland and spot mammals and birds. At one point we saw a variety of birds and mammals on open grassland. We were carrying our binocular so we can observe their activity. We took such breaks near marshland, River canals or Waterbodies.<br />
We saw many residential and migratory birds on our route. We were able to spot lesser adjutant, greater adjutant, black-necked stork, Asian openbill, painted stork, spot-billed pelican, lesser white-fronted goose, Pochards, Greater spotted eagle, white-tailed fishing eagle, serpent eagle, Pallas's fish eagle, lesser kestrel and many more birds during our Safari.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioyQEMf4lsXtjp-PcdB8Do1J_QP8j1aLguNFSSgU1fbbmYVTmwTUIlvbGrO_TAsd4qaik6cLQo8pmzMGonCYF_qU3AdTQKKMd6vZEo87gGEtENdFzXZEgOvRr4ukcPzO7WSJb78VtfgASJ/s1600/IMG_9778.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioyQEMf4lsXtjp-PcdB8Do1J_QP8j1aLguNFSSgU1fbbmYVTmwTUIlvbGrO_TAsd4qaik6cLQo8pmzMGonCYF_qU3AdTQKKMd6vZEo87gGEtENdFzXZEgOvRr4ukcPzO7WSJb78VtfgASJ/s640/IMG_9778.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lesser Stork</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilgkF6y8tr3P5c-C5By_dwjAGXuiDy2ao6yjYAYLQlLr5Wjierahm0fk3oiv2WjKmdZHbkrmOr2zjZBOs1mHaReaL5Z8mDuE8f1S9lISVxeQb-xK-z0cJWJ_XVPmjHRnQt83VegU3EvA6P/s1600/IMG_9825.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilgkF6y8tr3P5c-C5By_dwjAGXuiDy2ao6yjYAYLQlLr5Wjierahm0fk3oiv2WjKmdZHbkrmOr2zjZBOs1mHaReaL5Z8mDuE8f1S9lISVxeQb-xK-z0cJWJ_XVPmjHRnQt83VegU3EvA6P/s640/IMG_9825.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spot Billed Pelican</td></tr>
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The best part of our Safari was when huge Rhino cross the route in front of our jeep and stopped at the side of the road for a couple of minutes. We saw swamp deer, spotted deer, barking deer and Sambar which are available in the forest in good quality. Watching Rhino every time during safari was a treat to the eye. Rhinoceros in Kaziranga are about 70% of the world's total rhino populations.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpwol0h7AEBRQi2ho0sAZdY0BAQMc_tmgQFQKUvNfvfISAhwI-z6iEwPavJA5fX0pu5oQEAjQd7815z8RRuQfcNspo5g6zGvIgSb80MDw9UfVhvyhVucBhaMU-BcpiSMkYYC2EXroRzhr/s1600/_1033691.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpwol0h7AEBRQi2ho0sAZdY0BAQMc_tmgQFQKUvNfvfISAhwI-z6iEwPavJA5fX0pu5oQEAjQd7815z8RRuQfcNspo5g6zGvIgSb80MDw9UfVhvyhVucBhaMU-BcpiSMkYYC2EXroRzhr/s640/_1033691.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rhino crossing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlB8LAIaOf8ieaDlaFWCHFZhaLbd5o5dFuWFFFtEt-62HIO3qnX1AK_TpF6pXn4PMPay5mT4SqamIYzPr79PTF6GRK4BLvNZXPDygMkxw5hJkH_XqGMdGhBK2pneB7uPSvwv7Q4YZQtI7/s1600/_1033697.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="872" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlB8LAIaOf8ieaDlaFWCHFZhaLbd5o5dFuWFFFtEt-62HIO3qnX1AK_TpF6pXn4PMPay5mT4SqamIYzPr79PTF6GRK4BLvNZXPDygMkxw5hJkH_XqGMdGhBK2pneB7uPSvwv7Q4YZQtI7/s640/_1033697.JPG" width="348" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wait till I cross the road...</td></tr>
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We were inside the forest for around 2 hours 30 min and we enjoyed each and every moment. The cold breeze, Beautiful landscape, Tall elephant grass and wildlife was a real treat. While returning to the gate, the driver observes some activity in huge Grass. Initially, we were unable to spot anything but soon we released that it was a wild Elephant. Grass in Kaziranga is such a tall that even elephant can easily hide inside it and hence it is called as Elephant grass (giant miscanthus). Considering such rich vegetation of the forest, It is really difficult to spot Bengal Tiger. Kaziranga offers you great biodiversity in terms of flora, fauna and vegetation.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiITneq8QqhMo5UvUw4jWO2mkG_VmEvWogyNZ6ErNTV0q8qgODPdfn88Ver7Ok78GvGYQk3wbZ_-uluJRphB7Hcz7-dCS41P5AjS2eCfV6xOzkBU70g6vae4-CW4e35iotOe808N0hXaFsW/s1600/_1033758.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="818" data-original-width="1600" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiITneq8QqhMo5UvUw4jWO2mkG_VmEvWogyNZ6ErNTV0q8qgODPdfn88Ver7Ok78GvGYQk3wbZ_-uluJRphB7Hcz7-dCS41P5AjS2eCfV6xOzkBU70g6vae4-CW4e35iotOe808N0hXaFsW/s640/_1033758.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Kaziranga Forest</td></tr>
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We return to the hotel by 11:30AM after quick tea powder shopping in the local market. We had some snacks and left beautiful Kaziranga. The journey from Kaziranga to Guwahati was around 4-5 hours. We didn't take any break in between and reached Hotel landmark before 5PM. We had some rest and went out for our dinner cruise.<br />
There are multiple cruises which offer sunset ride (1 hour) or Dinner cruise ride. Our booking was for a Dinner ride on Alfresco Grand cruise. We boarded at around 7:15PM and the tour started at 7:30PM. It was good to go if you have spare time. They serve you Started (Very limited), one Mocktail and Dinner. The sand art video and voiceover depicting Assam’s great warrior Lachit Borphukan vs Mughal (battle of saraighat) history was good. There was a culture program but it was loud and bit commercial and not traditional. We attended a culture program in Kaziranga which was far better than the program on Alfresco Grand. There was karaoke which was of average quality. Few items from the meal were good in taste and ambience was okay. They also serve liquor Drinks at cost. We are non-alcoholic so no idea on rate and type of liquor. We enjoy the dinner tour Though, whether it's worth of INR 1300 per head or not is up to you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGwl2G-swKv0hbZO7yBIkiGciwEc07Y3l_F4VRaA7dIuj4QW8a23mySW68HenOZKHLQA2CZfwX6rtLbgRjks9aJZWgUJ4qFKW3jmPUfaG7brkwoQWJK6-qiUHF8vs9dWpMNTtzaVh04Zl/s1600/IMG_20200215_190007.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGwl2G-swKv0hbZO7yBIkiGciwEc07Y3l_F4VRaA7dIuj4QW8a23mySW68HenOZKHLQA2CZfwX6rtLbgRjks9aJZWgUJ4qFKW3jmPUfaG7brkwoQWJK6-qiUHF8vs9dWpMNTtzaVh04Zl/s640/IMG_20200215_190007.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alfresco Grand Dinner Cruise</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Tips for Kaziranga National Park Safari</span></u></b><br />
1. You can book Jeep Safari on the spot. Sharing jeep is allowed so you can join the other groups to save money. However, We recommend booking private (No sharing) jeep is the best experience to explore in your terms if you can manage it.</div>
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2. In case you are on a budget trip and wanted to share the jeep, better to reach Ticket window 45 min prior to your safari timing which will give you more chances to look around for sharing groups.</div>
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3. For private Jeep safari (Non-Sharing), better to book forest permit in advance and if possible ask your hotel manager to arrange Jeep in advance. </div>
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4. Carry ample amount of the Indian currency as at the most of places they prefer Cash. Big hotels/Restaurants and Shops accept cards or Open baning methods such as Google pay/Paytm etc.</div>
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5. We were staying at Kohora (Near Central zone) and we saw a couple of ATM machines as well.</div>
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6. There are 3 (Central, Western, and Eastern) different zones and each zone offers you unique and some animals pop up in higher concentrations in certain ranges. But all zones have good number is Rhinos</div>
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7. The boat safari is also available in the Brahmaputra river. check with the hotel or at Forest office for more details</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 7 Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Elephant Safari: INR 950 per person (Booked by Friend)</li>
<li>Jeep Safari: INR 3050/- (It varies based on Zone and Time)</li>
<li>Permit fee: INR 200/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Staff welfare per vehicle fee: INR 300/-</li>
<li>Safari Road Toll: INR 100/-</li>
<li>Safari Camera fee: INR 200/- for 2 Camera</li>
<li>Tip to Jeep driver: ₹200/-</li>
<li>Snacks for lunch: INR 200/-</li>
<li>Dinner at Alfresco Cruise: INR 2600/- for 2 people (Booked by Friend)</li>
<li>Stay at Hotel Landmark: INR 3500 - 4200/- with Dinner & breakfast (Booked by Friends)</li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Day 8: 15 Feb 2020: Guwahati - Pune:</u></span></b><br />
Our flight was at 3:45PM. The morning was free for us so we went to Fancy Bazar for some quick shopping. We wanted to visit Uma Nanda Temple which is located on the Island in Brahmaputra River. We skipped the Island visit due to cold foggy morning and lack of time. We visited the statue of Lachit Borphukan. He is known for his leadership in the 1671 Battle of Saraighat. In the honor of Lachit Borphukan, The best passing out cadet of National Defence Academy, Pune has conferred the Lachit Borphukan gold medal every year from 1999.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlzsy52E9Ku43J_IFMNKu_XvaoGV-TFwesjeASuSAJ3Ilj75YR6MfTM6fH5FH6U9-HN85Gdd5IkmKqG8EiCDk99k0E_FptG0IeggQ4500n19Va9Wx8jb3LgmFgK12-I3GXI_HoJ3PMwlI9/s1600/_1033883.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlzsy52E9Ku43J_IFMNKu_XvaoGV-TFwesjeASuSAJ3Ilj75YR6MfTM6fH5FH6U9-HN85Gdd5IkmKqG8EiCDk99k0E_FptG0IeggQ4500n19Va9Wx8jb3LgmFgK12-I3GXI_HoJ3PMwlI9/s640/_1033883.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lachit Borphukan Statue in Brahmaputra River</td></tr>
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We took a stroll on the bank of Brahmaputra river which is 9th largest river in the world. We had a tasty meal in the famous Paradise restaurant which serves authentic Assam local food. Ambience and service were good and we love the taste.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCNS325T5QGBke7aAda_Munma5A03EZs6CcPOruTYqnLG3M2XX9mRDh1REaJF1GBjgemoaX-hZ52ibu_95h_qHFFrDZgmh78fKo2pxZcw-6PI-dreDzO1n8KTN_GY7t2pngA_fAXqf_O_/s1600/IMG_20200216_115536.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCNS325T5QGBke7aAda_Munma5A03EZs6CcPOruTYqnLG3M2XX9mRDh1REaJF1GBjgemoaX-hZ52ibu_95h_qHFFrDZgmh78fKo2pxZcw-6PI-dreDzO1n8KTN_GY7t2pngA_fAXqf_O_/s640/IMG_20200216_115536.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assam local Non-veg meal</td></tr>
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Our driver dropped us to the airport. Airport was very crowded due to Bollywood stars as they were travelling back to Mumbai after attending Filmfare award on 14th Feb. We saw many actors-actress inside the airport but we avoided photo with them as they were surrounded by other traveller and even airport staff. We had our next connecting flight to Pune from Kolkata after 4 hours of layover time. We board the flight by 9:45PM and reached our sweet home.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 8 Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Uber to Fancy Market: INR 85/-</li>
<li>Uber to Restaurant: INR 90/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Paradise: INR 755/- (1 Veg meal and 1 Non-veg meal)</li>
<li>Uber to Hotel: INR 66/-</li>
<li>Car rent chargers: Not aware as Car was Booked by friend</li>
<li>Dinner at Kolkata airport: INR 600/-</li>
<li>Pune airport to Home by Uber: INR 230/-</li>
</ul>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span></u></b>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Small Video from Our Assam and Meghalaya trip</span></u></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rEJDMDnas8Y/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rEJDMDnas8Y?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Contact Number for Reference:</span></u></b><br />
1. Hotel Landmark, Guwahati: 0361 2455248<br />
2. Hotel La kupar Inn, Sohra (Cherapinji): <a href="https://lakuparinn.com/">https://lakuparinn.com/</a> (John +919856680199 / Bansan +919615093898)<br />
3. Hotel Aerodene Cottage, Shillong: <a href="http://www.aerodene.in/">http://www.aerodene.in/</a> (Ronan: +9181198 07072 / Sharlene: +9197740 65366)<br />
4. Hotel mandu the escape, Kohora, Kaziranga: <a href="https://www.mandutheescape.com/">https://www.mandutheescape.com/</a> (+919435150277 / +917002510432 / +919711801387)<br />
5. Car Driver Bubhul: +919577746711<br />
6. Khasi emporium, Shillong: +919612659653/+919612609891<br />
7. Ka Bri war Restaurant, Dawki Road: +919366321258 / +917002035078.<br />
8. City Hut Family Dhaba, Shillong: 03642220386.<br />
9. Bamboo Hut Restaurant, Shillong: 03642501542 / 03642503430.<br />
10. Restaurant Paradise, Guwahati: +919435548812, 03612666628.<br />
11. Anuraag Dhaba, Nagaon (Guwahati-Kariranga highway): +919954506051 / +919101719674.<br />
12. Pranab for Kaziranga Jeep Safari: +917002263443<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Places which we missed due to lack of time:</span></u></b><br />
<b><u>Guwahati</u></b><br />
1. Umananda Temple<br />
2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary<br />
3. Purva Tirupati Shri Balaji temple<br />
4. Navagraha Temple<br />
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<b><u>Shillong</u></b><br />
1. Laitlum Canyons<br />
2. Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures<br />
3. Lady Hydari Park<br />
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<b><u>Sohra/Cherrapunji</u></b><br />
1. Arwah Cave<br />
2. Dain-Thlen Falls<br />
3. Wei Sawdong Falls<br />
4. Wah Kaba Falls<br />
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<b><u>Kaziranga</u></b><br />
1. Majuli Island Village<br />
2. Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary or Hoolock Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary<br />
3. Nameri Village for birding and butterfly<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7Nja5UhxDb6J5WkTqTNCUi8xFxe_RxQUfa0vKkXZduTZvlD4IwqGYqAdmiZtY8LjWOfc7HD_aiFiRJlNALzJCWcsTvf-uLyQufYp-7aN55_P7X13NzHwIDFMhrgiq-aBC984hzKlDRhy/s1600/00000IMG_00000_BURST20200209113646389_COVER.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7Nja5UhxDb6J5WkTqTNCUi8xFxe_RxQUfa0vKkXZduTZvlD4IwqGYqAdmiZtY8LjWOfc7HD_aiFiRJlNALzJCWcsTvf-uLyQufYp-7aN55_P7X13NzHwIDFMhrgiq-aBC984hzKlDRhy/s640/00000IMG_00000_BURST20200209113646389_COVER.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
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</div>
Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-20124550702385309072020-02-16T22:00:00.000+05:302020-06-13T01:16:28.098+05:30Two Sisters State: Assam and Meghalaya: Part 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Amongst the ups and lows of life, between all challenges, one gets a sweet peaceful space which reenergizes life. This North-East was one such. It was a customized package tour by our well-wisher where I and Renu chalked day-wise itinerary with the help of holiday partner Prena travels. Considering the wedding anniversary's occasion, They Booked a trip to Assam and Meghalaya. This trip helped us to bounce back from our tough time.<br />
Travellers for this trip were Me and Wife Renuka.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGf1yeq1mrczKVx7QXQ6EbwqBQvDpTgrysBrOTpJaBtBcOnwMnQJr9xUZwuyv7mlFasiIG8fRbFNzhzvC8RpqV5oc57Z0JSOBlmsd2FWw3YfYpYw3m8CxDtysIyI3whKHmLSQ_nY17oWd/s1600/IMG_20200211_124816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Two State, Two Traveler... At Rainbow Waterfall" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGf1yeq1mrczKVx7QXQ6EbwqBQvDpTgrysBrOTpJaBtBcOnwMnQJr9xUZwuyv7mlFasiIG8fRbFNzhzvC8RpqV5oc57Z0JSOBlmsd2FWw3YfYpYw3m8CxDtysIyI3whKHmLSQ_nY17oWd/s640/IMG_20200211_124816.jpg" title="Two State, Two Traveler... At Rainbow Waterfall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two State, Two Traveller... At Rainbow Waterfall</td></tr>
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To avoid the length of my travel blog, I have divided it into 2 parts. In this part, will like to share my travel experience at Guwahati and Sohra.<br />
<b>To read my Next Blog,</b> <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2020/02/two-sisters-state-assam-and-meghalaya_16.html" target="_blank">click on Two Sisters State: Assam and Meghalaya: Part 2</a><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Seven Sisters:</span></u></b><br />
7 States of India's North-east Part is known as Seven Sisters. Seven sister states are Assam (Dispur), Meghalaya (Shillong), Manipur (Imphal), Mizoram (Aizawl), Arunachal Pradesh (Itanagar), Nagaland (Kohima) and Tripura (Agartala). This name was used by journalist Jyoti Prasad Saikia in 1972. Seven States have similarity on Geographical, Economical and tribal culture. There are different views on the reason behind the name. But what I Feel is they are an integral part of India and blessed with lovely nature and rich culture.<br />
Our trip was focused on Assam and Meghalaya. Assam shared the state border to rest north-east state and hence it is known as Gateway to North-East India. Dispur is the capital of the state but Guwahati is the primary entry point for Assam. Assam is situated just below the eastern Himalaya foothill. The state is famous for tea, Silk, one-horned rhinoceros, tourism and culture.<br />
Meghalaya (Name meaning Home of Clouds) is a hilly state. Shillong is the capital of the state whereas Shillong is also known as Scotland of the East. Meghalaya is the wettest land of India with around 70% of the forest. The state offers you tourism throughout the year as per interest.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Our Day Wise plan:</span></u></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Day</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Date</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Trip Plan</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Stay</span></b></div>
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Day 1</div>
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09 February 2020</div>
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Pune to Guwahati via Kolkata.</div>
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Local Sightseen</div>
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Guwahati</div>
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Day 2</div>
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10 February 2020</div>
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Guwahati to Cherrapunji via Shillong.</div>
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Cherrapunji Sightseen</div>
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Sohra (Cherrapunji)</div>
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Day 3</div>
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11 February 2020</div>
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Double-decker Live root Bridge & Rainbow fall trek.</div>
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Shillong</div>
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Day 4</div>
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12 February 2020</div>
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Dawki River and Mawlynnong Village</div>
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Shillong</div>
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Day 5</div>
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13 February 2020</div>
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Local Sightseen</div>
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Shillong</div>
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Day 6</div>
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14 February 2020</div>
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Shillong to Kaziranga and local Sightseen</div>
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Kaziranga</div>
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Day 7</div>
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15 February 2020</div>
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Forest Safari and then Back to Guwahati</div>
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Guwahati</div>
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Day 8</div>
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16 February 2020</div>
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Local sightseen, Evening flight to Pune</div>
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Pune</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 1: 09 Feb 2020: Pune to Guwahati:</span></u></b><br />
We boarded 06:15 AM indigo flight to Guwahati via Kolkata. We had breakfast at Kolkata airport and boarded next flight. We reached Guwahati airport by 11:45AM. Our driver welcomed us at the airport. The city is around 40-45 min (20-24 km) away. before we checked into the hotel, we took a small detour to meet the wife's colleague's family. We had a local cuisine lunch with them and spend a good time. kamakhya Temple was on the way to the hotel so we decided to visit the temple first rather than checking in the hotel first.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8-8a9SZ_hP-G6lRsq35UZt7BBu765CmocpMRNGfF1C_wLsy-kuT62WCXnYxG1DJmwzu1r7cwXmNYJK4MnSwlgiqeBqMfVtBQHvkipUMiYLj1aJrWDzJN2OzMJ80hkJiBA1Mmw1Y8C91F/s1600/_1022807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kamakhya temple, Guwahati" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8-8a9SZ_hP-G6lRsq35UZt7BBu765CmocpMRNGfF1C_wLsy-kuT62WCXnYxG1DJmwzu1r7cwXmNYJK4MnSwlgiqeBqMfVtBQHvkipUMiYLj1aJrWDzJN2OzMJ80hkJiBA1Mmw1Y8C91F/s640/_1022807.JPG" title="Kamakhya temple, Guwahati" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kamakhya temple, Guwahati</td></tr>
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Kamakhya temple is located on the Nilachal Hill and one of the oldest Shakti Peetha. The story behind Shakti Peetha is based on the death of Goddess Sati (Wife of Lord Shiva). When Lord Shiva got to know the death of Sati, he carried her body and roamed around it. Her Body parts fell on earth to become holy places known as Shakti Peetha. Kamakhya temple represents Goddess Sati's yoni fell after Shiva roamed with the corpse of Sati. The temple is an important pilgrimage for Hindus and especially for Tantric worshipers. It is always crowded with tourist and devotees.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carving at Kamakhya Temple</td></tr>
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We got to know that it will take 2 hours for Darshan with VIP pass (INR 500) and around 4 to 5 hours in the normal queue. We decided to take Mukh Darshan. We're always more interested in architecture and carving of it. This temple also has beautiful carving around the temple wall. On the temple wall, We saw something unique. Lord Ganesh was carved on the wall with lots of round shapes holes in it. People were placing coins in the flat holes. Local believes if your coin remaining in the hole and does fall down then your wish will be granted soon by Lord Ganesha. We also saw many people wearing Phul-haar (flower garland for god) which was available in shops just outside the temple. Devotees offer Phul-Haar to the goddess and in return, the priest gives them another hear which is kept inside as Prasad (as a form of blessings).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganesh at Kamakhya Temple</td></tr>
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Temple has a section to light the Diya and Agarbatti (Joss Stick). We spend around an hour in the temple area and capture beautiful moments. The place was a bit crowded but in a disciplined manner. Most of the shops offer you to keep your footwears free of cost but in return, you have to buy flowers/Haar etc. we found a shop near to the entrance gate of the temple to keep footwears at nominal charges. We stopped at one viewpoint while descending the ghat for city view. Its not complete city view but worth to take a pit stop.<br />
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After a visit to Kamakhya temple, we reached our pre-booked hotel Landmark. Hotel is located beside Nehru Stadium (Old-time Cricket stadium which is now converted to Local football ground). Overall the hotel and rooms were good though the service was a bit slow. we took some rest and left the hotel to visit Assam State Museum. It closed by 5 PM hence we were unable to explore it more. you need 2 hours to explore the museum. It is a perfect collection of Assam history, old sculptures, art and culture. There is a man-made rectangular shape lake near to Musume known as Dighalipukhuri War Memorial. walkway path around the lake, garden and Boating is available along with small display collection of Tank and aircraft.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKVqM2fhSsMdj-gH0A0PevYTKMcn8vjBqvUALijnCeQeFb9nGb-5gsTcIHUEm55sfSSqhWCPmFcE95hEaR3c_dQx1gh4VgC4GkcZmo21VZ_Vm_GB0Y3xue0quIjnS8LYuIHedHtWmdEAW/s1600/_1022819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKVqM2fhSsMdj-gH0A0PevYTKMcn8vjBqvUALijnCeQeFb9nGb-5gsTcIHUEm55sfSSqhWCPmFcE95hEaR3c_dQx1gh4VgC4GkcZmo21VZ_Vm_GB0Y3xue0quIjnS8LYuIHedHtWmdEAW/s640/_1022819.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Hotel Room</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We went to Fancy market but most of the shops were closed due to Sunday. We came back to the hotel for dinner after a quick market walk.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Pune to Guwahati return Flight: INR 6000-7000 per person (It was booked by friends don't know the exact amount)</li>
<li>Home to Airport by Uber: INR 250/-</li>
<li>One Coffee at Kolkata Airport: INR 100/-</li>
<li>Snacks as breakfast: INR 300-400/- for 2 people (As per order)</li>
<li>Stay at Hotel landmark: INR 3500-4200/- with Dinner & breakfast (Booked by Friends)</li>
<li>Hotel to Fancy Market by Uber: INR 75/-</li>
<li>Cycle Auto to hotel: INR 90/-</li>
</ul>
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<div>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 2: 10 Feb 2020: Guwahati to Sohra (Cherapunji) via Shillong:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up early morning to witness Sunrise. View of Stadium with the sunrise was worth. After breakfast, we left Guwahati by 8:30 AM. Today's plan to reach Sohra (Commonly famous by name Cherapinji) and cover on route points. After 20-30 km of drive, Hilly region began. As we gain height, the weather became colder and colder. The road was curvy but smooth. Soon we entered in Meghalaya State. Meghalaya can be visited throughout the year. Those are more interested in Waterfalls then the best time to visit is from September to December. For trekking, exploring nature and to enjoy the winter, better to visit between December to Mid March. For tourism March to May is the ideal time. Those who want to witness monsoon cloud affairs over mountains and beautiful monsoon then June to September is the Time.<br />
We took a pit stop at Umain Lake viewpoint. This lake also offers you multiple boating options at their boating club. We were not interested in boating so we decided to move ahead. We stuck in a traffic jam which is quite common to enter Shillong or to bypass due to limited entry points for Shilong and small roads. We bypass Shillong to visit our first place, Elephant Waterfall. It is just outside Shillong and on the way to Sohra.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoh_dBE8FK39ZEWqMIsAUe4a4RAq0aNTkIMtuO6CQuuSp2JV3VEYFyYeGRa9njUtYp_augUPJQx66FPKbMxhX1Dm2AoFoW7uJbtM4I3xyeYuZZd-BbVAeQeTjFtH-9Wlwg0iSkYpO1SNzZ/s1600/_1022827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Umain Lake, Shillong" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoh_dBE8FK39ZEWqMIsAUe4a4RAq0aNTkIMtuO6CQuuSp2JV3VEYFyYeGRa9njUtYp_augUPJQx66FPKbMxhX1Dm2AoFoW7uJbtM4I3xyeYuZZd-BbVAeQeTjFtH-9Wlwg0iSkYpO1SNzZ/s640/_1022827.JPG" title="Umain Lake, Shillong" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Umain Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Elephant waterfall is a multi-stage (3 stages) waterfall whereas the last stage has a larger fall area. you need to climb down around 100 odd steps to reach the base of the waterfall. The area is very well maintained. The actual name of the waterfall is Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew (meaning Three-step waterfall) but it is commonly known as Elephant fall. As per local, There was a huge rock which looks like an Elephant. It was damaged and destroyed in an earthquake.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8zqmNl7Fcvn-pNvnubAkLkwJBtBWJZfAjLlsUKVHUgTFNXdhX6_lvZUtK0Fd_E7Lj24mSjk0gdFF_dp3v694PoCk8l5Ut9LISJ9At_2iqDz3XZ4-wB175yLPGV9m6ESy-FIdM1CORffQ/s1600/IMG_9577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Elephant Waterfall, Shillong" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8zqmNl7Fcvn-pNvnubAkLkwJBtBWJZfAjLlsUKVHUgTFNXdhX6_lvZUtK0Fd_E7Lj24mSjk0gdFF_dp3v694PoCk8l5Ut9LISJ9At_2iqDz3XZ4-wB175yLPGV9m6ESy-FIdM1CORffQ/s640/IMG_9577.JPG" title="Elephant Waterfall, Shillong" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elephant Waterfall, Shillong</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The first stage is Narrow and hidden in trees, whereas the second stage is relatively small but with good water force. The last stage is a cascade waterfall flow from fallowing down on rocks. Water is clear and in milky colour tempt you to capture a moment in camera. It is one of the must-visit falls from Shillong as other famous falls are in Sohra/Cherapinji. we clicked our photos and came back to the parking area. The parking area has many shops which offer you Maggi/Tea/Coffee and some local item for shopping.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsz967vQwMeHMJmc6ODxPrP6ly9awAhPz5Sx13igSyD6_pN_iKyfl4q6Y_bnuelpfSgOpiavep4YcdRGyuC-IGznWl2ZeHSLFxH4TPf_3MtL2EGAFKvYzcix1P6FPjyYVhUdez4PPJ8XYq/s1600/_1022852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsz967vQwMeHMJmc6ODxPrP6ly9awAhPz5Sx13igSyD6_pN_iKyfl4q6Y_bnuelpfSgOpiavep4YcdRGyuC-IGznWl2ZeHSLFxH4TPf_3MtL2EGAFKvYzcix1P6FPjyYVhUdez4PPJ8XYq/s640/_1022852.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elephant Waterfall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcm9W7yENElqA0ruigm1kZIQdNuRchm3ByFZZ5DiPnOpz2BOz5S_FSjEbkMmX9KJNah47tL3kL0fxeEgI8_4ZuX1zxb3bdowYyVG3FsSo27o0bkM5tkXhwXLbHeWfzJQ558h4wx3XE19f/s1600/_1022849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="1600" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcm9W7yENElqA0ruigm1kZIQdNuRchm3ByFZZ5DiPnOpz2BOz5S_FSjEbkMmX9KJNah47tL3kL0fxeEgI8_4ZuX1zxb3bdowYyVG3FsSo27o0bkM5tkXhwXLbHeWfzJQ558h4wx3XE19f/s640/_1022849.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Elephant Waterfall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We left fall after quick snacks and coffee. Our plan is to explore Sohra (Cherapunji) first. On the way to Sohra, we took a small break after Diwan Sing Syiem Bridge. It's is Valley viewpoint and cloudy rain was playing hide and seek with the sun. Now the weather turned cold and windy. we took a small break for Wah Kaba - Latara Fall. Due to lack of water flow, this fall was completely dry. We just saw the mountain landscape and move ahead.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OCBmCEZl6xeGZXpud_Rjlb5yCa0MBeo6GOO19zhrYx8qmQs2dDxsTJbmor4bM0HBOymUCVsbdlBQhhVkj9cZP4XI2Ar5EEzfnOR9LxMIUKrq_hcuZER_4QcVwe8aseQv9GSYyM_sT-8N/s1600/_1022859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OCBmCEZl6xeGZXpud_Rjlb5yCa0MBeo6GOO19zhrYx8qmQs2dDxsTJbmor4bM0HBOymUCVsbdlBQhhVkj9cZP4XI2Ar5EEzfnOR9LxMIUKrq_hcuZER_4QcVwe8aseQv9GSYyM_sT-8N/s640/_1022859.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to Sohra (Cherrapunji)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We had a lunch break at Orange restaurant. The veg meal was very tasty, they also serve south Indian dishes. The restaurant run by female staff, in fact, we got to know which is similar to Leh-Ladhak. Most of the business in Cherapunji are run by females. Our Next destination was Nohkalikai waterfall. Nohkalikai means Jump of Ka Likai. As per locals, many years ago Likai named local female jump from the waterfall head. Her second husband killed her daughter when she was away for work. He cooked it and served it to her. when she realised it, she ran and jump to death as she was unable to bear thought of cannibalizing of her own daughter.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZ-bYTEpiOSdTUSw8KQw2AH9Jnv0HS-VzE5-G4SEby1z7zLs-XtEqlIeKYB7NUBEvTykJHUXHKDHGQmewzEXbEozpAwjZzkMzNmwvcOTWvpuVAgd4K3IoiymeWfhAXJee6tcIjGKdQqsL/s1600/IMG_20200210_150553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZ-bYTEpiOSdTUSw8KQw2AH9Jnv0HS-VzE5-G4SEby1z7zLs-XtEqlIeKYB7NUBEvTykJHUXHKDHGQmewzEXbEozpAwjZzkMzNmwvcOTWvpuVAgd4K3IoiymeWfhAXJee6tcIjGKdQqsL/s640/IMG_20200210_150553.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nohkalikai Waterfall, Sohra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Nohkalikai fall is the tallest plunge (waterfall's Verticle drop without cliff touch) waterfall. Its height is 340 meters. Due to its direct fall, Beautiful water pond created at the base. Watercolour of the pond is nature treat to watch. The view of the valley and waterfall is breathtaking to watch. The best time to visit the fall is monsoon to December when the view is most spectacular. Keep some spare time if you're visiting after monsoon as most of the time waterfall area is covered clouds or fog. Weather was cloudy when we visited but luckily the weather was cleared when we reach the spot. There were plenty of shops to buy souvenirs.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS5VaV_gncSq57juuZLbIEqvaiEqNu9sJZi3pJEgnH9WMuzJT5d_R7F1EkPwNsHkyrHZpeqeJx9g-RUaJOGipFNoqum9SWBi912W8ktRPOAgXoOLyr0uQ5dPIyU8AccItWoPKGMjUfchyphenhyphenx/s1600/_1022885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS5VaV_gncSq57juuZLbIEqvaiEqNu9sJZi3pJEgnH9WMuzJT5d_R7F1EkPwNsHkyrHZpeqeJx9g-RUaJOGipFNoqum9SWBi912W8ktRPOAgXoOLyr0uQ5dPIyU8AccItWoPKGMjUfchyphenhyphenx/s640/_1022885.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nohkalikai Waterfall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Our next destination was seven sister fall. Due to lack of water and off-season, the entire seven sister waterfall was dry. The actual name of the fall is Nohsngithiang. There are 7 waterfall streams hence popularly known as seven sister fall. The landscape of waterfall and valley is beautiful. With a quick visit, we went to our next destination Mawsmai cave.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigye93yxo5cxsctGUyrEC-9U4Oqzup2DhJRxt7tXQFP-c6GU-cAHezNdYDFXfETZPVXQ2jw9tmt85Xg8pnKsFvsjKd06pnPxBRpovlKsutJPva7FlMGbLYnfsnVZarIAhdlo2aXskYcBVG/s1600/_1022926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigye93yxo5cxsctGUyrEC-9U4Oqzup2DhJRxt7tXQFP-c6GU-cAHezNdYDFXfETZPVXQ2jw9tmt85Xg8pnKsFvsjKd06pnPxBRpovlKsutJPva7FlMGbLYnfsnVZarIAhdlo2aXskYcBVG/s640/_1022926.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 Sister Waterfall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWDjJZIdpqfaI1CQIs_KCqxqdzgNifws_HtSsCGOPFL_VDjzs2Uz__N1lbMwHRMxjXJyRXASnnpE5qGcPDot9RQCKhhaKy5BHyB8551igm7k5zSQGRe5Bnw9e9L5oYWsN5DvRYOR1M0CL/s1600/36456955_1814854745227257_539421328004874240_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="960" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWDjJZIdpqfaI1CQIs_KCqxqdzgNifws_HtSsCGOPFL_VDjzs2Uz__N1lbMwHRMxjXJyRXASnnpE5qGcPDot9RQCKhhaKy5BHyB8551igm7k5zSQGRe5Bnw9e9L5oYWsN5DvRYOR1M0CL/s640/36456955_1814854745227257_539421328004874240_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 Sister Waterfall in Monsoon... PC: 7 Sister fall view Inn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Meghalaya has more than 1000 caves. Mawsmai Cave is one of the most popular caves in Meghalaya for tourist. Amongst the most easily accessible of the many caves in Cherrapunji, Mawsmai Cave is an entryway to the world of underground adventure. It is simple enough to navigate, and you can manage without a guide. It is about 5-6 km away from the main town. The cave walls get narrow to walk alongside. Mind your head while taking a cave tour. There is another cave just besides Mawsmai but you're allowed to go inside with proper gear and guide.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKqkWm94_O2AXgLl1gA4Y4tt4io_QmwtuonD-ktK0YC4l7kOfGYMfKxqsU5kOGxcV0DbvDaT0zEf0OdpIps8t7oc5IINwcN9lCQNG21QWyc5f2z5GGbG99glfXtC5TIRtp_otewqCUdis/s1600/IMG_20200210_162635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKqkWm94_O2AXgLl1gA4Y4tt4io_QmwtuonD-ktK0YC4l7kOfGYMfKxqsU5kOGxcV0DbvDaT0zEf0OdpIps8t7oc5IINwcN9lCQNG21QWyc5f2z5GGbG99glfXtC5TIRtp_otewqCUdis/s640/IMG_20200210_162635.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mawsmai Caves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyHsS5XeGvZivPwyga8usv0Owva-z11MzONp3W1HGXbcpnemY9PzaighFv594XKh-bdRq9aGL-6jzpWyYcC5tQ0bisloHiyxPmQCyul68OVX0n6GRCY3UNCEMbZLSdlfGV5iRjqZcMCI97/s1600/_1022902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="902" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyHsS5XeGvZivPwyga8usv0Owva-z11MzONp3W1HGXbcpnemY9PzaighFv594XKh-bdRq9aGL-6jzpWyYcC5tQ0bisloHiyxPmQCyul68OVX0n6GRCY3UNCEMbZLSdlfGV5iRjqZcMCI97/s640/_1022902.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mawsmai Cave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After a visit to the cave, we checked-in in the hotel La Kupar Inn. The hotel was simple with a beautifully decorated room. We had some local cuisine at the hotel for dinner and it was tasty. We meet the manager of the hotel to gather information on tomorrow's trek. Manager John explained to us about the route, what point to visit, do's and don'ts. He suggested, there is no requirement of the guide as the route is pretty straight forward. Still, we hired a local guide at the last minute as It was Renuka's first (hectic) trek after her medical recovery. Tomorrow, we decided to start our day by 6-6:30 AM.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZH2S6ZxZAag9ozAou_W1YO-ySNgjsxeTQXvOeg4wHIJifK5TRznEzO0O37n9MqlMQXJEtt4VnfbICVrWP8kxjmW02dBjFM5ujvCJYUagVeZEWgRb1GXb1ExDnx-gNvyqBhZnvqQFHpjkB/s1600/_1022894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZH2S6ZxZAag9ozAou_W1YO-ySNgjsxeTQXvOeg4wHIJifK5TRznEzO0O37n9MqlMQXJEtt4VnfbICVrWP8kxjmW02dBjFM5ujvCJYUagVeZEWgRb1GXb1ExDnx-gNvyqBhZnvqQFHpjkB/s640/_1022894.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Houses in Sohra... You will find many such small beautiful Homes in Sohra</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOwJU9wgJgKXTYd6czpuQErm5A6V-cJ-9G4iO8P-1FMTWljL_V0mKHs0zNoepyp8lYeffn2hCJs6QkyZcOrS8XIRoCmUeF0kGKtLjy5AytjnNMFhyphenhyphenwVGiqE6Hd_tW6vYdV-v0RLkui5vp/s1600/IMG_20200210_171400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOwJU9wgJgKXTYd6czpuQErm5A6V-cJ-9G4iO8P-1FMTWljL_V0mKHs0zNoepyp8lYeffn2hCJs6QkyZcOrS8XIRoCmUeF0kGKtLjy5AytjnNMFhyphenhyphenwVGiqE6Hd_tW6vYdV-v0RLkui5vp/s640/IMG_20200210_171400.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel La Kupar Inn, Sohra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 2 Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Toll: INR 75/-</li>
<li>Parking at Lake viewpoint: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Elephant Fall entry: INR 40 for 2 people</li>
<li>Elephant Fall Car Parking: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Elephant Fall Camera fee: INR 20/- (No fees for Mobile Camera)</li>
<li>Snacks at Elephant Fall: INR 100/- (Maggi 50, Coffee 40 and tea 10)</li>
<li>Car parking at Diwan Sing Syiem Bridge: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Wah Kaba - Latara Fall viewpoint entry: INR 20/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Lunch at Orange restaurant: INR 510/- for 3 people (170/- for Full Thali)</li>
<li>Nohkalikai Fall entry: INR 40 for 2 person</li>
<li>Nohkalikai Fall car parking: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Nohkalikai Fall Camera: INR 50/- (No fees for Mobile Camera)</li>
<li>Mawsmai Cave Car parking: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Mawsmai Entry: INR 40/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Mawsmai cave Camera/Mobile Camera: INR 40/- for 2 Camera.</li>
<li>La Kupar Inn Hotel Stay at Sohra: INR 2500/-</li>
</ul>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 3: 11 Feb 2020: Double-decker bridge and rainbow fall Trek:</span></u></b><br />
We somehow manage to wake up by 5:30-6AM. As Requested, Hotel manager arranged a packed breakfast for us. we checked out and left for Full day trek. There are 2 routes for the trek, one starts from Nohkalikai and another one from Tyrna Village. We started our trek from Tyrns Village. Route from Sohra to the village was in bad condition. We reached by 7:30AM at Tyrna Village. We were the first travellers for that day to start the trek. The idea was to reach Double decker Living root bridge early so we can capture photos of the bridge without any tourist on it. Cement steps are laid till the Double Decker bridge with few flat walking trails or pathways. The entire trek route goes through the dense forest and offers you a scenic view. You can see a variety of butterflies on the route after double-decker bridge till Rainbow waterfall.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcl9kkS-JUStc_ZztMKUqY7aXjrnk13veAKYDIZqx0572ze48qMLu128SVSYlUV1bcSbg1O5_KrYN0t2lE9TuAJsF5mIx6XWM84OcJ27xVhg4_7fbTQtckSZbFRsevYdiyGITLSZPuuozY/s1600/IMG_20200210_204352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rainbow fall Trek map, Sohra" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1183" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcl9kkS-JUStc_ZztMKUqY7aXjrnk13veAKYDIZqx0572ze48qMLu128SVSYlUV1bcSbg1O5_KrYN0t2lE9TuAJsF5mIx6XWM84OcJ27xVhg4_7fbTQtckSZbFRsevYdiyGITLSZPuuozY/s640/IMG_20200210_204352.jpg" title="Rainbow fall Trek map, Sohra" width="472" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trek Route Map gave by Hotel La Kupar Inn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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There are more than 3500 Steps to reach Double decker Living root bridge followed by a forest trail route till rainbow waterfall. We started our trek before 8AM. We saw a couple of tourists returning to Tyrna village. Mostly tourist prefers to visit Rainbow fall first and then stays near to Double-decker Living root bridge on the same day. Our plan was to trek till Rainbow Fall and return to Shillong on the same day. Guides are available at Tyrna Village with their fix rate card. Actually, there is no need at all to take guide till Double-decker Living root bridge whereas hiring a guide for rainbow fall is up to you. The route is very well marked. We were confused but then we hired a guide as it was my wife Renu's 1st trek post her medical recovery (She is really good trekker with strong stamina) whereas moto of hiring guide to seek help from him if required.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOJuIIS3pN3IDW5DO2ACnUNBLeOzhIM7SFVU_q5zjd2SrNRjrmlCljmjmw92qGiQZD6kS2dVysnczZnvt1DJ6N77d_2TZduP21VQAB2XLWiLut0qjIbPIgVbjk6EFodsgBzqbW3rrPpDA/s1600/IMG_20200211_074929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOJuIIS3pN3IDW5DO2ACnUNBLeOzhIM7SFVU_q5zjd2SrNRjrmlCljmjmw92qGiQZD6kS2dVysnczZnvt1DJ6N77d_2TZduP21VQAB2XLWiLut0qjIbPIgVbjk6EFodsgBzqbW3rrPpDA/s640/IMG_20200211_074929.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tyrna Village and Starting point for Trek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TmBRgOkesl_PSvCy7cD3hYoHT_meQCYGhYfig8m5WIRtobg5QLi2giH9FLxRGGyUBW2hsknZhyPf438ObIiCPhuDR8a6prLyt5xaVjN-_-7hWNoyWRrLGjLW17POCuXxCYtmgj-QvNoh/s1600/IMG_20200211_081632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TmBRgOkesl_PSvCy7cD3hYoHT_meQCYGhYfig8m5WIRtobg5QLi2giH9FLxRGGyUBW2hsknZhyPf438ObIiCPhuDR8a6prLyt5xaVjN-_-7hWNoyWRrLGjLW17POCuXxCYtmgj-QvNoh/s640/IMG_20200211_081632.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Step on Trek route (Note: Steps are till Double decker root bridge and then trail till Rainbow Fall)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The onward journey was mainly downhill. There were well-laid steps from the start point to the single root and to the double root bridges. So the knees got a little wobbly after a while. The steps are quite steep at some points too. Just before you reach the Nongthymmai village after the downhill, there is a path on your right for Single living root bridge. Don't worry if you miss this shortcut as there is another route from Village as well. There is an entry fee to visit the Single living root bridge. You have to take around 15 min de-tour for single live root bridge but it is worth to visit. It is believed to be the longest root bridge and 2-3 person can cross at the same time. these live root bridges are formed by rubber fig trees and they are partially man-made. Trible people use man-made material to increase the strength of the bridge. Live root bridges from Meghalaya are old and nature's blessing to Trible people. We cross the bridge and took some photo before we headed towards Double decker root bridge.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nAywUk-mNFq5wCWLcl-WY-k95ZpeBMXUKAIn5fgoT3wu8INw6qEq0-ybB8rHyj7E51OmZbYUz_0BiDSDOmTXWxcaAW-ZA7LyONp0VYklVSsShoRIkMNNNW3FUATkRhlgHTJpM1M5qQT2/s1600/_1022946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Single Live Root Bridge" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nAywUk-mNFq5wCWLcl-WY-k95ZpeBMXUKAIn5fgoT3wu8INw6qEq0-ybB8rHyj7E51OmZbYUz_0BiDSDOmTXWxcaAW-ZA7LyONp0VYklVSsShoRIkMNNNW3FUATkRhlgHTJpM1M5qQT2/s640/_1022946.JPG" title="Single Live Root Bridge" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Single Live Root Bridge, Nongthymmai (Populer nearby Village Tyrna)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-zXoS1wV9FTq1X8jj_1yfOlk2CvX6iVJu8j9-jqIgEQRQ-x7JJwPaaLGYylYI7oSxwaBywwB9Qn3rWKQz9QOwnnImbnMOIVgWLfv4u0EUp5vR-V-EzAaOgRT4m0_b3k0SFqnmT3km2Vu/s1600/_1022935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Single Live Root Bridge, Nongthymmai" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-zXoS1wV9FTq1X8jj_1yfOlk2CvX6iVJu8j9-jqIgEQRQ-x7JJwPaaLGYylYI7oSxwaBywwB9Qn3rWKQz9QOwnnImbnMOIVgWLfv4u0EUp5vR-V-EzAaOgRT4m0_b3k0SFqnmT3km2Vu/s640/_1022935.JPG" title="Single Live Root Bridge, Nongthymmai" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Single Live Root Bridge, Nongthymmai</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> (Populer nearby Village Tyrna)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We crossed 2 suspension metal bridge. Trek route goes through the forest with a lot of uphill and downhill. There are small food stalls near small villages where you can buy basic snacks like biscuits, chips, Water, Cold drink, Red Bull etc. do not expect product at MRP and paying extra for these products are worth considering the geographical challenges. Few stalls have Tea, Eggs and Maggi. After an hour trek, we reached the Double-decker Living root bridge which is located at the village Nongriat. It is one of its most admired wonders. Snuggled in the dense green forests of Meghalaya, the root Bridge remains blessed with rain for a major part of the year. It is one of the most stunning partly man-made structures of Meghalaya, created partly by the Khasi tribe.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvcTF7yzfwa5GAzymAesjMjE7BAXf3XJNLpkxv2_RBz5P6PfOjVHAMWd8Kug1zjBiXnGJLDPcxDGyRQTvrXrLBj2EMNa0C8GpgylR4FKnZ1DP2CVJvNZ3L6x1PC1If8kWixs0x5yx7gSB/s1600/_1022992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvcTF7yzfwa5GAzymAesjMjE7BAXf3XJNLpkxv2_RBz5P6PfOjVHAMWd8Kug1zjBiXnGJLDPcxDGyRQTvrXrLBj2EMNa0C8GpgylR4FKnZ1DP2CVJvNZ3L6x1PC1If8kWixs0x5yx7gSB/s640/_1022992.JPG" title="Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmjOGehbSf6iykmPd0J6ytSazmVEvsuVoL4WxH-Kyupv8Dx4rdTKgXfQ2Z3R1A4wJNUVagkHEEwV0dPdXf06B3vRlOo07bnsg23u9V2dSnY0_mfBB-6RsEi4u2Zwu2cj7yz5tS0o5NRSYO/s1600/_1022988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmjOGehbSf6iykmPd0J6ytSazmVEvsuVoL4WxH-Kyupv8Dx4rdTKgXfQ2Z3R1A4wJNUVagkHEEwV0dPdXf06B3vRlOo07bnsg23u9V2dSnY0_mfBB-6RsEi4u2Zwu2cj7yz5tS0o5NRSYO/s640/_1022988.JPG" title="Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Double-decker bridge means the bridge has 2 decks or layers, which are created due to the entanglement of the roots. The lower bridge was original but occasionally became submerged in floodwater, so they formed a new one above it, using the same rubber tree. Both bridges were quite old and totally rigid. We were the only tourist to reach the bridge. We spend around an hour enjoying the natural beauty. There is a small water pond where you can get natural fish pedicure But you will have to wait patiently for the fish to come to you. Water was freezing chilled but worth to experience it. We had some Maggi and coffee (The only shop where we got the coffee). There are few homestays are available in the village with very bare minimum facilities but Best place spend a night in the peaceful forest. We wish we could stay here so we added stay at Double decker bridge in our to-do list. After an hour break, we started with our final leg of the journey.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvAnMM_V-WCSaGj0zCcrt1oPSpoMIGowG5Ww2oc2KyJAcvhp2N582HguMrF88bzL_dk69PuKC3HNmi33V5G0zW2tQgbaUZnBIePpFTSCr22k5Pt8uJqoeeh0VwnPPNldvKRhV977bMsKu/s1600/_1022985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvAnMM_V-WCSaGj0zCcrt1oPSpoMIGowG5Ww2oc2KyJAcvhp2N582HguMrF88bzL_dk69PuKC3HNmi33V5G0zW2tQgbaUZnBIePpFTSCr22k5Pt8uJqoeeh0VwnPPNldvKRhV977bMsKu/s640/_1022985.JPG" title="Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Double Decker Live Root Bridge, Nongriat</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMHekP1DDPS1bj78k12srKf0-dvO0n6HqwF24Ggs-BSa8dKz6hXo_3o8dL_q2IJ7DT2WhV6qfreTPRdLxk6YaQOGDHMPEOL4eKVF3tIui62HyRD13BkFveWZoC4SylUnicwr1kVt-aM8KY/s1600/IMG_20200211_103053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMHekP1DDPS1bj78k12srKf0-dvO0n6HqwF24Ggs-BSa8dKz6hXo_3o8dL_q2IJ7DT2WhV6qfreTPRdLxk6YaQOGDHMPEOL4eKVF3tIui62HyRD13BkFveWZoC4SylUnicwr1kVt-aM8KY/s640/IMG_20200211_103053.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cold weather, Lovely Forest, Peaceful Village, Double Decker Live Root Bridge, No one around and Maggi with Wife!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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From this point onwards, things get excited. The walkable path vanished by now, mostly we were walking on uneven soils or climbing rocks. Another wire bridge came en route. I stepped in and realize that this was different than the previous two. As we walked in, the bridge started shaking with the minimum wind blow which was there. It was due to its length and height. View from Bridge was beautiful. By the time, the route was tough with the tiring steep hill climb with a narrow path. After 30-40 min trek, we reached Small, beautiful Blue lagoon. View and colour of the lagoon tempt us to take a small break to enjoy nature's beauty. Water was so clear that we skipped our plan to enter in the chilled water. After all why to spoil nature's beauty?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc4h9WKcWSjR0HoXoXFhTITq16MravMe2f308ZN4ezF_Mq5ZR4Hq1IudUt-ewpIJWwmbrc6g_m3r_Usc8pYYJJYbewCfV-8WnAm6JnnPoW2T5wWLim4XJRlb-1MsB5roG6cSc_1bEs_bAT/s1600/IMG_20200211_113756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc4h9WKcWSjR0HoXoXFhTITq16MravMe2f308ZN4ezF_Mq5ZR4Hq1IudUt-ewpIJWwmbrc6g_m3r_Usc8pYYJJYbewCfV-8WnAm6JnnPoW2T5wWLim4XJRlb-1MsB5roG6cSc_1bEs_bAT/s640/IMG_20200211_113756.jpg" title="Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGb7ISvVJhsMPYzLYPywB2P1OHtHGvAcJrSGyVZ3-2kn6hBS0aO7f3uesakav2mG8Nzoy199Obij1eL5x8tL9_eGmriXqaJ_OoXimRTTvV1_X6dixJhMxNabCvdjMo7kss050kowTB7yV/s1600/_1033106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall" border="0" data-original-height="894" data-original-width="1600" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGb7ISvVJhsMPYzLYPywB2P1OHtHGvAcJrSGyVZ3-2kn6hBS0aO7f3uesakav2mG8Nzoy199Obij1eL5x8tL9_eGmriXqaJ_OoXimRTTvV1_X6dixJhMxNabCvdjMo7kss050kowTB7yV/s640/_1033106.JPG" title="Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5fYqZQOmoP07-4q2nEkC_G39MGczoszR1ssPeuvaHnePEPlXUF8omLJ-Hv2NXTOagkKSDc2NYOMtbNsl1GajRDWW4CanGwV-l2abNvGdEacCzcLK7cjV0-sNgVNOa-MMxXejcN9_eyEm/s1600/_1033080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall" border="0" data-original-height="907" data-original-width="1600" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5fYqZQOmoP07-4q2nEkC_G39MGczoszR1ssPeuvaHnePEPlXUF8omLJ-Hv2NXTOagkKSDc2NYOMtbNsl1GajRDWW4CanGwV-l2abNvGdEacCzcLK7cjV0-sNgVNOa-MMxXejcN9_eyEm/s640/_1033080.JPG" title="Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Blue Lagoon Near Rainbow Waterfall</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After around 30 min trek, finally, we reach the Rainbow waterfall. View from height was lovely. Climbing down to reach the falls was challenging. You have to climb down the steep hill and then huge size rock boulders with the bamboo ladder. You forgot all the pain you had during the trek to reach the beautiful waterfall. After all the efforts, you arrive at this really stunning, breathtakingly falls, which produces rainbows when the sun shines on it. As it named Rainbow fall, you can view rainbows on the fall. If you are lucky then you can view multiple rainbows. We saw 2 small rainbow arch at a time at different levels.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHgQbuJM35LRX6LDM3NXegKA26_mR3ZD-8ZbWCaDuMrFVHKarea1KAd_rG_rbnJ-yz13jIIuxUq1inqRx4YaAr-y2DXIBcKyEqnu0e06w6zIz06U3Y8wINfwI1Zu-_LbBm0spiec9vrf3/s1600/_1033131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rainbow Waterfall" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="902" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHgQbuJM35LRX6LDM3NXegKA26_mR3ZD-8ZbWCaDuMrFVHKarea1KAd_rG_rbnJ-yz13jIIuxUq1inqRx4YaAr-y2DXIBcKyEqnu0e06w6zIz06U3Y8wINfwI1Zu-_LbBm0spiec9vrf3/s640/_1033131.JPG" title="Rainbow Waterfall" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rainbow Waterfall</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGD20TpOz_6vLAfLD9cQ52OvgURgmCWzk3PNm2UfHOKB9Smxk77jjtSb8zX3Sbs5K9NQDtL-0kozEQqhB0IV0l2smF1RlMPnfbLJQgCl_0fFeyzoDsQ9zjZGFoYiDIVLggPNexMgNa-roB/s1600/_1033143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rainbow Waterfall, Meghalaya" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGD20TpOz_6vLAfLD9cQ52OvgURgmCWzk3PNm2UfHOKB9Smxk77jjtSb8zX3Sbs5K9NQDtL-0kozEQqhB0IV0l2smF1RlMPnfbLJQgCl_0fFeyzoDsQ9zjZGFoYiDIVLggPNexMgNa-roB/s640/_1033143.JPG" title="Rainbow Waterfall, Meghalaya" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rainbow at Rainbow Waterfall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We spend around 30 to 40 min. We wished that the time would stop. We climbed up and had our lunch as Maggi at the food stall. This was one of the best meal-time as we were having hot served Maggi watching rainbow fall and Blue clear water pond. It took us little more than 5 hours to reach the rainbow fall including our long break at Double decker bridge. The return journey started with beautiful memories.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkM76TDYiTQ03tNFhS9AIJYYrJiJBl41SxKJR5Bl9ErBdAZjVROjDTvoOcFzhHsb4bu9FI_6qExHcXwPUB-GyWKWca1m4aMlEVBGC2m8eGU8I4ZCS4e55WCB2svSnwFRNPvFL4SCkDARi/s1600/_1033181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkM76TDYiTQ03tNFhS9AIJYYrJiJBl41SxKJR5Bl9ErBdAZjVROjDTvoOcFzhHsb4bu9FI_6qExHcXwPUB-GyWKWca1m4aMlEVBGC2m8eGU8I4ZCS4e55WCB2svSnwFRNPvFL4SCkDARi/s640/_1033181.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rainbow Fall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCzZZp23GY3vX-Af2IfZq_3NSy1sjJHZvLWeZgHWGux_AOWMTlHS3T1c_l1bXE9o4mhIj1CsGvR2s8UJuJPaBPCWHZ3l-8wxLgaHJbQB66SW0sVQNN7RSzCdXKeKFpMghK80fBRzvUrL8T/s1600/IMG_20200211_124846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCzZZp23GY3vX-Af2IfZq_3NSy1sjJHZvLWeZgHWGux_AOWMTlHS3T1c_l1bXE9o4mhIj1CsGvR2s8UJuJPaBPCWHZ3l-8wxLgaHJbQB66SW0sVQNN7RSzCdXKeKFpMghK80fBRzvUrL8T/s400/IMG_20200211_124846.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I was super happy for her strong comeback in trekking. No one from our family and friend expected her such kind of comeback. Within an hour we reach near Double decker bridge. Few children from the village were playing Football on the ground (I surprised with the village's football ground even at such remote location) that I couldn't resist myself to join them for a few mins. We were unable to understand each other's language but we played like we know each other. We Took a small coffee break at Double-decker live root bridge and started with our remaining journey.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLqjo92bmMv7hzdXEoMt315Ou3uZtis9ncU1jPsZmjZ159cQx5C92NRj4jQi-GrKjpbwSL7A_mhvxC_sw6H5jQ6Wdfh2R2eBwDa3ey8fLMLYAowU_X7HS2fPd0-w50Lmdi6tns-aDZCfag/s1600/_1022970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLqjo92bmMv7hzdXEoMt315Ou3uZtis9ncU1jPsZmjZ159cQx5C92NRj4jQi-GrKjpbwSL7A_mhvxC_sw6H5jQ6Wdfh2R2eBwDa3ey8fLMLYAowU_X7HS2fPd0-w50Lmdi6tns-aDZCfag/s640/_1022970.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo clicked from one of the suspension Bridge</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkZLZWwa87932fIZB1DI_RpAhFReqNFxK2FF9gHapCLngm8e3boyNNqNbijXX516h7hySiI6DkJni0uD4NNXdeayHcFwwpgXTIT9A9kvqMkIZx0jMBL0j1DIn3XY1XNIUJSlzTw_y9RSB/s1600/_1033209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="From Nongriat Village" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkZLZWwa87932fIZB1DI_RpAhFReqNFxK2FF9gHapCLngm8e3boyNNqNbijXX516h7hySiI6DkJni0uD4NNXdeayHcFwwpgXTIT9A9kvqMkIZx0jMBL0j1DIn3XY1XNIUJSlzTw_y9RSB/s640/_1033209.JPG" title="From Nongriat Village" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Nongriat Village</td></tr>
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Soon we reached the Nongthymmai village. We took a break at one of the food stalls for energy drink so we can start the final climb strongly. Our strategy was to climb continuously but at a slow steady speed. It was very tiring climb but managed to climb completely without a single break. We reached Tyrna village by 5 PM. Our driver was waiting for us. We started our journey for Shillong which was our next destination for a couple of days.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MCjS-T2vPZv2QqBW0MeUKfOQR0YU_-WPM2NPlQSAQuM9bQTPTdz8RFbyYtuqYL6EddO_bncr4x3RKN8NCjXbS8LlyE5zXZh_r0pN2bEdd0yhs_yxV9jKZrZoViNBLcafXuljz-ejvCsC/s1600/IMG_20200211_111041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MCjS-T2vPZv2QqBW0MeUKfOQR0YU_-WPM2NPlQSAQuM9bQTPTdz8RFbyYtuqYL6EddO_bncr4x3RKN8NCjXbS8LlyE5zXZh_r0pN2bEdd0yhs_yxV9jKZrZoViNBLcafXuljz-ejvCsC/s640/IMG_20200211_111041.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Live root Bridge near Rainbow Waterfall</td></tr>
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After 3 hours of journey, we reached Shillong. Our hotel was pre-booked at aerodene cottage. we were the only guest in the beautiful aerodene cottage resort. The moment we step in the room, we started getting peace and positive vibes. Excellent colour combination, tasteful décor, immaculate presentation and spotlessly clean beds & bathroom makes you feel really good while you are inside. The dining hall was nicely decorated and the breakfast served was quite good and filling. Dinner was also served with advance intimation. The greenery of the place will also perk up your spirits. We had dinner in the hotel and took a rest. It was a long tiring but one of the memorable day from Trip.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpD010p8INkBlmnbjijWdZeFaLCSFan6JNV6VOnBAK-HLswRHJDVDaw1YtfKntD6C9PSn1GQh8n6p-czh9T8Pk6qxViEEXaawn0-5zeKHIaHNyCADfqQBmg2kup9g5Q7X-bv0UI4UX8xO/s1600/IMG_20200214_072954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Aerodene Cottage, Shillong" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpD010p8INkBlmnbjijWdZeFaLCSFan6JNV6VOnBAK-HLswRHJDVDaw1YtfKntD6C9PSn1GQh8n6p-czh9T8Pk6qxViEEXaawn0-5zeKHIaHNyCADfqQBmg2kup9g5Q7X-bv0UI4UX8xO/s640/IMG_20200214_072954.jpg" title="Aerodene Cottage, Shillong" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerodene Cottage, Shillong</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOg-HtmGrBogBOU9EXAbSu43zDKWqYnIhd8EuOhAu9XlQ7ZPAB7lvlB1b-yI7hBDo-cU-RsTDLt6ljEybQWgDRXfkvhshJlNlFXu2UtqdVX6O6yklDPHGP-F9HQAJlDjvIIiUXsB8WKpsn/s1600/IMG_20200211_191836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Aerodene Cottage, Shillong" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOg-HtmGrBogBOU9EXAbSu43zDKWqYnIhd8EuOhAu9XlQ7ZPAB7lvlB1b-yI7hBDo-cU-RsTDLt6ljEybQWgDRXfkvhshJlNlFXu2UtqdVX6O6yklDPHGP-F9HQAJlDjvIIiUXsB8WKpsn/s640/IMG_20200211_191836.jpg" title="Aerodene Cottage, Shillong" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Room in erodene Cottage, Shillong</span></td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 3 Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car Parking at Tyrna Village: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Bamboo Stick for trekking: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Single Living Root Bridge entry: INR 40/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Single living root Bridge camera: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Double-decker bridge entry: INR 60/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Double-decker bridge camera: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Maggi at Double decker bridge: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Coffee at Double decker bridge: INR 40/-</li>
<li>Red Bull drink: INR 280/- for 2 can(Due to Remote Jungle area, the rates are high and justified)</li>
<li>Maggi at Rainbow Fall: INR 120/- for 3 plate</li>
<li>Water bottle in overall Trek: INR 75/- for 3 Bottles</li>
<li>Small Cold Drink Can: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Fruits plate: INR 60/-</li>
<li>Guide Fee: INR 1000/- till Rainbow fall trek whereas INR 700 till Double-decker bridge. (No need to hire Guide as Route is well marked and No miss leading paths in route)</li>
<li>Tip to Guide: 100/-</li>
<li>Aerodene Cottage Stay at Shillong: INR 3000 to 4000/- per night (Booked by Friends)</li>
</ul>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Contact Number for Reference:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Hotel Landmark, Guwahati: 0361 2455248</li>
<li>Hotel La kupar Inn, Sohra (Cherapinji): <a href="https://lakuparinn.com/">https://lakuparinn.com/</a> (John +919856680199 / Bansan +919615093898)</li>
<li>Hotel Aerodene Cottage, Shillong: <a href="http://www.aerodene.in/">http://www.aerodene.in/</a> (Ronan: +9181198 07072 / Sharlene: +9197740 65366)</li>
<li>Hotel mandu the escape, Kohora, Kaziranga: <a href="https://www.mandutheescape.com/">https://www.mandutheescape.com/</a> (+919435150277 / +917002510432 / +919711801387)</li>
<li>Car Driver Bubhul: +919577746711</li>
<li>Khasi emporium, Shillong: +919612659653/+919612609891</li>
<li>Ka Bri war Restaurant, Dawki Road: +919366321258 / +917002035078.</li>
<li>City Hut Family Dhaba, Shillong: 03642220386.</li>
<li>Bamboo Hut Restaurant, Shillong: 03642501542 / 03642503430.</li>
<li>Restaurant Paradise, Guwahati: +919435548812, 03612666628.</li>
<li>Anuraag Dhaba, Nagaon (Guwahati-Kariranga highway): +919954506051 / +919101719674.</li>
</ul>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Places which we missed due to lack of time:</span></u></b><br />
<b><u>Guwahati</u></b><br />
1. Umananda Temple<br />
2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary<br />
3. Purva Tirupati Shri Balaji temple<br />
4. Navagraha Temple<br />
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<b><u>Sohra</u></b><br />
1. Arwah Cave<br />
2. Dain-Thlen Falls<br />
3. Wei Sawdong Falls<br />
4. Wah Kaba Falls<br />
5. Trek from Nohkalikai to explore few waterfall (2-3 Hours) (Trek start just 1km before Nohkalikai Fall Parking)<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Small Video from our Assam and Meghalaya Trip:</span></u></b><br />
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rEJDMDnas8Y/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rEJDMDnas8Y?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Please click on Next blog to read about our further journey: <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2020/02/two-sisters-state-assam-and-meghalaya_16.html" target="_blank">Two Sisters State: Assam and Meghalaya: Part 2</a><br />
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<span style="color: red;"><b></b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Pritesh Kulkarni</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Pune</b></span></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-26566245467290825512019-12-25T23:00:00.001+05:302020-04-25T14:25:08.136+05:30Nashik Travel Blog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After our visit to the Statue of Unity, we travelled to Nashik to drop Renuka’s Cousin. We stayed 3 days in Nashik before leaving for Pune. This was my first visit to Nashik as a tourist as earlier visits were for a family function.<br />
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<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2019/12/statue-of-unity-worlds-tallest-statue.html" target="_blank">Read my Travel Blog On Statue of Unity here</a><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Nashik</span></u></b><br />
Nashik city is situated at the Bank of Godavari River. It is 4th largest city in Maharashtra. As per Ramayana, Laxman cut the nose of Shurpanakha (Sister of Ravana) and thus the city was named Nashik. The city is famous for Kumbha Mela which held every 12 years. Nashik is also known as the wine capital of India.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4NEJGgg0XPRQV7XJkXYFjbwT3SXzlQR_wkXCkayk2MJ1n-BSDGVMGcSNk0inLEuhJdKpybm9G7QJZIWsJJXGxHHzns5NV6Lk8Mhsly1RI9AM8BLP1kDUZ3anS7xulwrEGRQnQZxokokY/s1600/00000IMG_00000_BURST20191223174102543_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4NEJGgg0XPRQV7XJkXYFjbwT3SXzlQR_wkXCkayk2MJ1n-BSDGVMGcSNk0inLEuhJdKpybm9G7QJZIWsJJXGxHHzns5NV6Lk8Mhsly1RI9AM8BLP1kDUZ3anS7xulwrEGRQnQZxokokY/s640/00000IMG_00000_BURST20191223174102543_COVER.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nashik</td></tr>
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<b style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>23 December 2019: Nashik Local sightseen</u></b><br />
Our first destination was Nashik caves which are famous by name Pandav Leni. Pandav Leni name is nothing to do with Mahabharata’s characters Pandavas. I tried searching reason behind the name and found that earlier Caves name was Pundru Caves (In Pali language). After decades, people started calling Pandu and then word change (Term in Sanskrit apa-bhraṃśá/<span style="font-size: x-small;">अपभ्रंश</span> and in English corrupted form of a word by locals while passing name from 1 generation to another) to Pandav Caves. To visit Nashik Caves, you have to climb around 200 steps (around 20-25 min Hike). There is a total of 24 caves, one cave is chaitya (Cave number 18) and rest all are Viharas. Vihara means monastery for Buddhist whereas chaitya refers to Shrine or prayer Hall. These Caves carved between 1st Century BC and 3rd/4th century AD.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2Oj79OQIUyeh9IlY5VM5p9y8jXeo5vHo2LIkD5Pg57Ui-GzGSyDj9YOsV_UsiJAvEHe4UpbWC2TxOD36GzTGcEezQtSuqtm9NKJp6A9uxEAbMF0AMt4XRp5qeYxqHuOFe8Y5p4AUVg-8/s1600/IMG_20191223_121327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2Oj79OQIUyeh9IlY5VM5p9y8jXeo5vHo2LIkD5Pg57Ui-GzGSyDj9YOsV_UsiJAvEHe4UpbWC2TxOD36GzTGcEezQtSuqtm9NKJp6A9uxEAbMF0AMt4XRp5qeYxqHuOFe8Y5p4AUVg-8/s400/IMG_20191223_121327.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steps to Nashik Cave</td></tr>
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Cave numbers start from rightmost cave starting with number 1 to Number 24 until the Left most point of Cave. Cave 1 and 2 are small in size Vihara cave. Cave 1 looks incomplete whereas Cave 2 have sitting and standing Buddha carved on the wall. You can see water trenches just besides cave 2. Cave 3 is known as Gautamiputra Vihara. It is the largest cave of the Nashik cave complex. Queen Gotami, the mother of Gautamiputra Satakarni (Satavahana Empire), built it and dedicated to Buddhist Samgha. Total of 18 cells is present in the cave. The entrance has six pillars carved with the story. You can see Bodhi tree, Stupa, Chakra and Dvarapal (Gatekeeper) over the entrance. There is a script available at the entrance of the cave, which describes the glory life of Queen Gautami mother of glorious king Gautamiputra.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave No 3 at Nashik Caves</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Cave No 3</td></tr>
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Caves 4 and 5 are destroyed and no script available on the wall of caves. These caves are small and you can see the few Monks Cells. Merchant dedicated cave 6 to Monks. Ascetic named Tapasini and Fisherman respectively dedicates caves 7 and 8 to monks. Cave 9 is small and no information is available.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave No 4 at Nashik Cave</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTKT34K4KBHQF0mW7KkVFsZ6pLl7Z_mKoSKGB-3T80GAxNMpGWPyEmVNrobEJl7n7JWhQSFM9bCWSXpIJt2JKsqFcFisDXt3u4pAbd-QTFTtReUVdgVffKfYvoOf_VHLHyBMOSSOkdimsU/s1600/_1022694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTKT34K4KBHQF0mW7KkVFsZ6pLl7Z_mKoSKGB-3T80GAxNMpGWPyEmVNrobEJl7n7JWhQSFM9bCWSXpIJt2JKsqFcFisDXt3u4pAbd-QTFTtReUVdgVffKfYvoOf_VHLHyBMOSSOkdimsU/s640/_1022694.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave No 8</td></tr>
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Cave 10 is Nahapana Vihara and it is second largest Cave from Nashik Cave complex. Nahapana was the Ruler of the Western Kshatrapas emperor. Total of 16 cells is present in the cave. Pillars and walls are carving are beautiful whereas carving on pillars is similar to Karla Caves from Pune. Carved script is available in Cave 10, which describes that Cave donated to monks along with 3000 gold coin and food after defeating Satavahana Empire in year 106 CE.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave No 10 at Nashik Cave</td></tr>
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Cave 11 is Jain Cave and it has idol figure of goddess Ambika and Lord Indra. Cave 12, 13 and 14 are next to each other and small in size. You can see carved Buddha inside Caves and No script available in the caves. Cave 17 is Yavana Vihara and built-in 120 CE. It is close to the Chaitya Cave, which is Cave number 18. Cave 18 has Stupa and Pillars to complete Parikrama around Stupa.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave No 15</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cave No 18</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMp_C6VM2177V2RZm2X39DsCh8NqzKnHAisFVDS-01CvEUx2Y9CIivAdBc4j2DsEKB5NeKiQiQPkq8SFfd1mpg7mrIGOqtjQjDzNWNDkuehlwkAgd9QcGkgxemcmMWKyNq7HFwEZUnB4nZ/s1600/_1022740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="902" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMp_C6VM2177V2RZm2X39DsCh8NqzKnHAisFVDS-01CvEUx2Y9CIivAdBc4j2DsEKB5NeKiQiQPkq8SFfd1mpg7mrIGOqtjQjDzNWNDkuehlwkAgd9QcGkgxemcmMWKyNq7HFwEZUnB4nZ/s320/_1022740.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stupa from Nashik Cave</td></tr>
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Cave 19 is Sri Yajan Vihara and it contained a total of 21 cells. Hall in the cave is large and Shrine at the end of the wall. Shrine area has two cells. Shrine has 10 feet high Buddha seated on feet on a lotus. Carving style of Inner and outer part of caves are different which denoted that is carved in two different ages. Cave 23 and 24 have different figures of Buddha and Bodhisattvas.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4zLxHkRwjQz2aHWuxIp0cpSFvUrVfyjbtct0Rx8aB_FkC_fHH3lqa5k5OOK33rtcOKyICDC4Ziv2sVj7or0ozzoX-Ycw7RCsB2aMizh2nDZ8u8cKHHYB9nWDQ2FZp4JE4Oo4-EvNJx8I/s1600/_1022763+at+19.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1028" data-original-width="1600" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4zLxHkRwjQz2aHWuxIp0cpSFvUrVfyjbtct0Rx8aB_FkC_fHH3lqa5k5OOK33rtcOKyICDC4Ziv2sVj7or0ozzoX-Ycw7RCsB2aMizh2nDZ8u8cKHHYB9nWDQ2FZp4JE4Oo4-EvNJx8I/s640/_1022763+at+19.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Budhha Statue inside Cave Number 19</span></td></tr>
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You need around 2 to 3 hours to explore Caves properly. All Caves are facing east hence; morning will be the best time to visit the caves. After exploring caves, we visited the Dadasaheb Phalke memorial. He was the father of Indian cinema and made first Indian Film. Memorial has information on Dadasaheb Phalke’s films and on Indian cinema journey.<br />
We had our lunch and decided to explore the Panchvati area. According to Ramayana, Lord Rama along with wife Seeta and brother Laxman was sent to exile (Vanvas in Sanskrit meaning residence in Forest) for 14 years. After completing 10 years, they can on the northern bank of Godavari River near Nashik and lived for 2.5 years. This place is known as Panchvati. Our first destination was the Kalaram Temple. Kalaram temple name derives cos of the black status of Lord Rama. Temple was built in the year 1766 and Sardar Rangarao odhekar had a dream that statue of Rama is in River. He took that Statue and built the temple. Temple is an old and most important temple from Nashik city. Architecture and Carving on the temple are beautiful. A kilometre from Kalaram temple, there is another temple as Goraram temple. Statue of Rama in this temple is in White Color. Temple is old and carved in wood.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjyu0ZGcs8OtOSrU_KmfCQVE3GxXAlBj6fCRAQ9CAtbf_J_Rklh5C3omYEETNz7M3sRXhyphenhyphenMDuG-8EnI4Ea2j57jtS1WMou0ltRD_0wMpxHNP_YhiQPIn5Iacbep_A1dN-AWoaF82tWKeaz/s1600/_1022768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjyu0ZGcs8OtOSrU_KmfCQVE3GxXAlBj6fCRAQ9CAtbf_J_Rklh5C3omYEETNz7M3sRXhyphenhyphenMDuG-8EnI4Ea2j57jtS1WMou0ltRD_0wMpxHNP_YhiQPIn5Iacbep_A1dN-AWoaF82tWKeaz/s640/_1022768.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalaram Temple</td></tr>
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We went to see Seeta Gufaa. Photography is strictly not allowed here and you have to pass through the narrow cave. People with Asthma, Heart disease and obesity are not supposed to visit the Gufaa. It is believed that Lord Rama and Seeta use to worship Lord Shiva during their exile. Shivalinga is present inside Cave. Outside Cave area, there are five old Banyan trees. Due to which this area is called as Panchvati (Panch means Five and Vati means Banyan tree). Many Temples are located in this area, which linked with Ramayana.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5CgmJrRwNtSReD0WGZt146_MQuqsFLoNkHj02RwzaT32Mmfqx-jmCXOhdMoZg45ICsp8N11XOCzjzo_WkGOpV47bTc2472BfKU_9PeXdeToP9SSE8iU84Darukps9vebqU6OiBvke2dyA/s1600/IMG_20191223_170607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5CgmJrRwNtSReD0WGZt146_MQuqsFLoNkHj02RwzaT32Mmfqx-jmCXOhdMoZg45ICsp8N11XOCzjzo_WkGOpV47bTc2472BfKU_9PeXdeToP9SSE8iU84Darukps9vebqU6OiBvke2dyA/s400/IMG_20191223_170607.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panchvati</td></tr>
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We explored the Panchvati area and then went to Ganga Ghat. It is one of the main Ghat on Godavari River in Nashik. A Lot of old temples are present on Ghat along with holy Rama Kund. Water is considered as Holy water and devotees come here for holy bath. Water is not clean at Ghat. This place hosts the Kumbha Mela (Gathering of Sandhu and Devotees) which happens once in 12 years. Last Kumbha Mela in Nashik was in the year 2015 and next will be in the year 2027. It is mainly known as Simhastha Kumbha Mela. When Jupiter and Sun enter in Sinha Rashi (Leo Zodiac BUT as per Hindu calendar) and when the lunar phase of the new moon (Amavasya) comes at that time Kumbha Mela begins.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvt4h26yiHKI8Z-JdNJP-RiV7P7GH5vXCP_VXmqkbqQMmMIRTVWWD22MQLzDASGZ5ukxc_XEFT7gWIXMoDt8leNNL_a6Gx3f6Iom0Jr-57DnON4cHkyibq8d4ZSHrOPl_Gqt3_vsZls82/s1600/00000IMG_00000_BURST20191223173827226_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvt4h26yiHKI8Z-JdNJP-RiV7P7GH5vXCP_VXmqkbqQMmMIRTVWWD22MQLzDASGZ5ukxc_XEFT7gWIXMoDt8leNNL_a6Gx3f6Iom0Jr-57DnON4cHkyibq8d4ZSHrOPl_Gqt3_vsZls82/s400/00000IMG_00000_BURST20191223173827226_COVER.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganga Ghat, Nashik</td></tr>
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According to Hindu Mythology, when Amrit (immortality drink) Kumbha (Pot) appeared from Samudra-Manthan (churning of the ocean to find Treasures between God and Evil), Lord Indra asked lord Jayant (son of Indra) to take it away from evil. While carrying Amrit Kumbha, some drops of nectar fall at four places on earth as Haridwar, Prayagraj (old name Allahabad), Ujjain and Trimbak (Nashik). A Kumbha Mela is celebrated at these four places every twelve years for this reason. People believe that after bathing there during the Kumbha Mela, one can attain moksha (spiritual freedom). We went home after a visit to a holy place.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganga Ghat Nashik</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses: </span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Pandav caves entry: INR 75/- for 3 person</li>
<li>Phalke museums entry: INR 30/- for 3 person</li>
<li>Car parking at Phalke museums: INR 10/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Sayali mutton: INR 680/- (chicken, Mutton plate, egg Burji n Rotis)</li>
<li>Snacks: ₹320 (2 Pani Puri, sandwich, 2 coffee)</li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b><u>24 December 2019: Nashik sightseen</u></b></span><br />
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We left home by 8AM and visited Sadhana chulivarchi Missal for breakfast. It is considered as one of the most famous Missal from Nashik. Nashik along with Pune and Kolhapur is famous for Missal Dish. There are many famous Missal joints in Nashik and due to Time limit, we only able to taste this one. Overall missal was good in taste but Farshan factor was on the higher side rather than other ingredients. They have huge space and overcrowded on weekends. We went on a weekday so we got the table without waiting in the queue. Will try other missal joints in our next visit to Nashik for sure.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig0z7AXce3RAjuApY7lu5LbrUB-LrDGZaE97k9kH8MxJa65PUKFLMUhv7E38j7XWvl5_Hg8CRqeUgKft3IuOvigkj_6d-hHMTSGvxAFW4rkozXkxo74Q5-3X_Rw78dd43mzwcC0k2E0hk1/s1600/IMG_20191224_093150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig0z7AXce3RAjuApY7lu5LbrUB-LrDGZaE97k9kH8MxJa65PUKFLMUhv7E38j7XWvl5_Hg8CRqeUgKft3IuOvigkj_6d-hHMTSGvxAFW4rkozXkxo74Q5-3X_Rw78dd43mzwcC0k2E0hk1/s400/IMG_20191224_093150.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sadhana Chulivarchi Missal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After Breakfast, we went to Saptashrungi gad. It is around 55-60 km from Nashik city. Saptashrungi temple is dedicated to Goddess Saptashrungi. This place is considered a half Shakti Peetha from Three and a half Shakti Peetha of Maharashtra. There are 51 or 108 Shakti Peetha (Number varies in India based on different mythology account/Book) spread across the Indian subcontinent. The story behind Shakti Peetha is based on the death of Goddess Sati (Wife of Lord Shiva). When Lord Shiva got to know the death of Sati, he carried her body and roamed around it. Her Body parts fell on earth to become holy places known as Shakti Peetha.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQ65_CQJE7TZ1IqUD5Gp_GrX9IHEitGiOLrAWDy9_peBySFd0N62umwfZX1ePHfZX1a3sIJFKkrPAGkiFE-6cgptoiRRcQchFzbYoTkdhEPzCaIhfKy3HZzpUXl0M8-L4VSZcXfYPnzDX/s1600/_1022771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Saptashrungi Gad" border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1600" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQ65_CQJE7TZ1IqUD5Gp_GrX9IHEitGiOLrAWDy9_peBySFd0N62umwfZX1ePHfZX1a3sIJFKkrPAGkiFE-6cgptoiRRcQchFzbYoTkdhEPzCaIhfKy3HZzpUXl0M8-L4VSZcXfYPnzDX/s640/_1022771.JPG" title="Saptashrungi Gad" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saptashrungi Gad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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There is enough parking space available at the base. Many shops on road allowed you to park your vehicle without any parking fees but the catch is you have to buy Saadi and other Pooja stuff from the shop owner, which will cost you starting from INR600 and above. We parked our car in the parking area and took the funicular trolley to reach on top. Another option to reach on top is by climbing 510 steps. Trolley area is well maintained and the waiting area has shops to buy Pooja material for Goddess. Once you reach the top, you have to be a queue for Darshan. Time to take goddess Darshan depends on the date and time of your visit. It is believed that Goddess Saptashrungi took rest after defeating demon Mahishaasura.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhR38ecvu2s_2m-73BTFPbeiFuH6BgYdZ29liwaOZf4uCM8AKBQ3zvrqmdUrf8-EelOuOmr6zdx3ds4UurmEHKUdfkkgFTlODAEDbkFqgTsgqZ8Qn4bMb-85V2Wx3JflX4hJ3VwJ-zorE/s1600/_1022779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhR38ecvu2s_2m-73BTFPbeiFuH6BgYdZ29liwaOZf4uCM8AKBQ3zvrqmdUrf8-EelOuOmr6zdx3ds4UurmEHKUdfkkgFTlODAEDbkFqgTsgqZ8Qn4bMb-85V2Wx3JflX4hJ3VwJ-zorE/s640/_1022779.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Funicular Trolley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After Visit to Saptashrungi visit, we went back to Nashik. Our evening destination was Vineyard. Though we do not drink Wine or any alcohol base drink, we visited the place to understand the process. We visited Sula Vineyard where you can take a tour to understand the Winemaking process. Overall, the vineyard was well decorated and maintained. They also have a tasting tour (Not sure but you can taste a couple of wine by paying some charges) and restaurant. We went to York winery which is a few kilometres from Sula. They also have some facilities like Winemaking tour, Wine tasting, and shop to buy Wine and restaurant. We got to know that food is good at York winery. We had a good dinner before our day ends.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkT3_JjMoLjabmDOU3b0ClSrgM1RQDGAu-gnxkNLtqHuj9HDWnavxI8GNyuLIHOiD1v9L0XQRYP7sLzSRcOgVMEzq4ntQeDu_VYB3SrLhZqcUS2rU8Yl10yjDdtMvclDeJmF3-HtXEivgA/s1600/IMG_20191224_202256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkT3_JjMoLjabmDOU3b0ClSrgM1RQDGAu-gnxkNLtqHuj9HDWnavxI8GNyuLIHOiD1v9L0XQRYP7sLzSRcOgVMEzq4ntQeDu_VYB3SrLhZqcUS2rU8Yl10yjDdtMvclDeJmF3-HtXEivgA/s640/IMG_20191224_202256.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sula Vineyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
<b style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Expenses:</u></b></div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car petrol: INR 2100/-</li>
<li>Missal: INR 398/- (3 Missal, Jilabi in Sweet, water bottle)</li>
<li>Entry fee at Saptsrungi: INR 30/-</li>
<li>Ropeway ticket: INR 270/- for 3 people</li>
<li>Parking at Saptsurngi: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Dinner at York: INR 1500/- (Soups, 1 veg and 1 Non-veg Starter, Veg Pulav, Chicken Biryani and Cold drink)</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">25 December 2019: Nashik and Travel back to Pune:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up at 8AM and left Nashik after breakfast. We decided to visit places like artillery museum (Deolali), Veer Savarkar smarak at Bhagur (Birthplace of freedom fighter Veer Savarkar), Gargoti mineral museum, Sinnar and Gondeshwar Temple at Sinnar. Our first destination was the artillery museum. Due to national holiday, the Museum was closed but they allow us to see the artillery, which is kept for display in open ground. The museum is located in Army camp from Deolali. There are old artillery weapons, Tanks, canons and Aircraft displayed in open ground. The museum building was closed due to holiday. Detailed information is available for each artillery.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RfU06p1Fj-6HvmG3rdCiXmEJKW6OOyULAz4WMo9fn_H3_lbA1f3jg4tWvdLpDVggCF8yCpwiTz_IqKQ8C1eDGWV1IoMoqNyObzkYPb8woINab5ZsL14fjKT_rGE8i-DmlgRMMrSnkkTu/s1600/IMG_20191225_112126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RfU06p1Fj-6HvmG3rdCiXmEJKW6OOyULAz4WMo9fn_H3_lbA1f3jg4tWvdLpDVggCF8yCpwiTz_IqKQ8C1eDGWV1IoMoqNyObzkYPb8woINab5ZsL14fjKT_rGE8i-DmlgRMMrSnkkTu/s640/IMG_20191225_112126.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artillery Museum, Deolali</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUoa9v8Ddja343CewzDHGPMwN0kLUdmANglL1KVARO0ow34gLeTFjC8vqejhstVu_Nm3FPNaavmqZvuMlBSByFURHx-pMIHuYpu8CTVixWNdKyyjxTXIl_dvfK0xGxgJMi58rC0nIooT1q/s1600/IMG_20191225_110437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUoa9v8Ddja343CewzDHGPMwN0kLUdmANglL1KVARO0ow34gLeTFjC8vqejhstVu_Nm3FPNaavmqZvuMlBSByFURHx-pMIHuYpu8CTVixWNdKyyjxTXIl_dvfK0xGxgJMi58rC0nIooT1q/s640/IMG_20191225_110437.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Artillery Museum, Deolali</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdzsIuPKDh5E5m55a-Ks6K3twnyYzG_6lmVwH5oAbG6Urb5c4nASx9yMKS29eCaJYz5kAzd4XgVUW7C2YdNi0XD_3oOWBh6TYz02MCwUiWMHWxWMT2e-2RhMAPv_qm-SYpgS4OybeiwvE/s1600/IMG_20191225_111104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdzsIuPKDh5E5m55a-Ks6K3twnyYzG_6lmVwH5oAbG6Urb5c4nASx9yMKS29eCaJYz5kAzd4XgVUW7C2YdNi0XD_3oOWBh6TYz02MCwUiWMHWxWMT2e-2RhMAPv_qm-SYpgS4OybeiwvE/s640/IMG_20191225_111104.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Artillery Museum, Deolali</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Post artillery museum visit, we went to Veer Savarkar smarak. It is the birthplace of great freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. House has resorted and now converted into a museum. You are allowed to roam in the house. Volunteer/Caretaker of property explains to us about the place. We spend some time inside the house for meditation. There are books on Veer Savarkar available for sell.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghSyzYJySk7AosggnBSNk53IG2tFuWoS5gqyPA3HfIrxsOfMDOTMYKye2rjReGLYG_ZGTHEWwhsiSQEtQb-SOAT7vplVFq8R7b6Jix0vINTETqORORPWrCHXXddfy18d4FvGsKt-TSOonR/s1600/IMG_20191225_122454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghSyzYJySk7AosggnBSNk53IG2tFuWoS5gqyPA3HfIrxsOfMDOTMYKye2rjReGLYG_ZGTHEWwhsiSQEtQb-SOAT7vplVFq8R7b6Jix0vINTETqORORPWrCHXXddfy18d4FvGsKt-TSOonR/s640/IMG_20191225_122454.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veer Savarkar Smarak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Our journey begins towards Pune. We took a small detour to Sinnar for Gargoti Museum. It is one of the biggest private mineral collection. This museum has a collection of beautiful natural mineral and gem found in India. The museum has two-floor, which divides the collection into Deccan plateau collection and Prestige Gallery. Deccan plateau gallery displays mineral and crystals collected from Maharashtra and nearby Maharashtra state. Prestige gallery contains a collection of exclusive and rare collection from India and around the world. They have rocks from Moon and Mars as well as fossils. A guide from Museum gives you detail information about the huge collection. There is one shop where you can buy a few crystal, Gems and ornaments. It required more than an hour to see the entire museum.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFllsB1wt5wgedU6Jse6IJll8Uhd8sBkGqdNTFD_DPHvpaz_jFg8Rna0KgpqyFI8WIXJXP31Kyn3Neb4B1Z9H4E0oVBcdNhN-NeiaEdYzfuQ7QPxt3Ai58bGARqAKyKytCWQyELnRZFTHJ/s1600/20200328_223113-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFllsB1wt5wgedU6Jse6IJll8Uhd8sBkGqdNTFD_DPHvpaz_jFg8Rna0KgpqyFI8WIXJXP31Kyn3Neb4B1Z9H4E0oVBcdNhN-NeiaEdYzfuQ7QPxt3Ai58bGARqAKyKytCWQyELnRZFTHJ/s640/20200328_223113-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKBSaktBXJglzwGB_FcGya8TBAiWHHTQDzj6-MnfRTxQOkjvBg0xWhdJ-6RhLqVeDKrVE6IRAcjezYhc_4xMbM_3EWKdfkJZmE6Dcns1aeM_m9RGgA0aHfNWQObot-yepuhubIhj0KjeH/s1600/20200328_223246-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKBSaktBXJglzwGB_FcGya8TBAiWHHTQDzj6-MnfRTxQOkjvBg0xWhdJ-6RhLqVeDKrVE6IRAcjezYhc_4xMbM_3EWKdfkJZmE6Dcns1aeM_m9RGgA0aHfNWQObot-yepuhubIhj0KjeH/s640/20200328_223246-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our last destination was Gondeshwar Temple. It is located at Sinnar and temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Temple was built in 11 or 12 century during Yadav dynasty. Temple Complex has Shiva temple at the centre and 4 small temples of Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesh, Goddess Parvati and Lord Surya (Sun). Temple is built in Bhumija architecture. The main shrine contains Shivalinga. You can see scenes carved on the wall of the temple are from epic Ramayana.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX3URzq4Pbg9MWYuVScFD3X4rjKcEPOnma3aSkkSCahA5T_f2bdth6Y7URIKXEZPY6L4BCcXRsSNFBQf1z5NNfNMpwgcveWbCqgEBSjvAA_vLwHHzqc2U4lGp-ezy9ahAIEraFBOZSYTFc/s1600/IMG_20191225_150832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX3URzq4Pbg9MWYuVScFD3X4rjKcEPOnma3aSkkSCahA5T_f2bdth6Y7URIKXEZPY6L4BCcXRsSNFBQf1z5NNfNMpwgcveWbCqgEBSjvAA_vLwHHzqc2U4lGp-ezy9ahAIEraFBOZSYTFc/s640/IMG_20191225_150832.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilW2rB1Ih-BAvRNfmQK0q02SJ6g_hoGwi9psumvDYCfv49OM7UexlT944bvhv8wjMihHpVxCKDJBVwYRl_j5ZiCWA_5XY6x52eQ9EdT3K7lVJqsDusbKgua-RYv5x8SFXdVFG0bVFp8_oV/s1600/IMG_20191225_151016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilW2rB1Ih-BAvRNfmQK0q02SJ6g_hoGwi9psumvDYCfv49OM7UexlT944bvhv8wjMihHpVxCKDJBVwYRl_j5ZiCWA_5XY6x52eQ9EdT3K7lVJqsDusbKgua-RYv5x8SFXdVFG0bVFp8_oV/s640/IMG_20191225_151016.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHH79jf_4IfOzvNnAsjRQK1BZJ4dCaFwwaeUivTnHAWh2d2kgUX1qsSPaalNeyzSt_c1wbKtiH2WfbhcsrOjIFK1iRRz257dMPF1qfW6YaW0QLQsugr1wd1i6FJ-96LxZrD7egJF0Zqrfw/s1600/IMG_20191225_151227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHH79jf_4IfOzvNnAsjRQK1BZJ4dCaFwwaeUivTnHAWh2d2kgUX1qsSPaalNeyzSt_c1wbKtiH2WfbhcsrOjIFK1iRRz257dMPF1qfW6YaW0QLQsugr1wd1i6FJ-96LxZrD7egJF0Zqrfw/s640/IMG_20191225_151227.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Gondeshwar Temple, Sinnar</span></td></tr>
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After a visit to the temple, we had lunch on the highway and reach Pune safely by 10PM.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Gargoti museums entry: ₹300/- for 3 people</li>
<li>Lunch: 340/-</li>
<li>Toll: ₹70/-</li>
<li>Coffee ₹50/- for 2 coffee</li>
</ul>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Places which we missed due to lack of Time</span></u></b><br />
1. Trimbakeshwar Temple: This is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India<br />
2. Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary: Bird Sanctuary. I have visited this place a few years back but went without Camera hence skipped blog on it. Best time to visit is from December to Mid March.<br />
3. Someshwar Temple<br />
4. Jain temple<br />
5. Gangapur Dam<br />
6. Anjneri Hill and Waterfall<br />
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7. Other Famous Missal Joints.<br />
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-1445662526776967882019-12-25T23:00:00.000+05:302020-03-18T20:19:31.916+05:30Statue of Unity - World's tallest Statue<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We were unable to explore new places in 2019 due to Medical reason. Before we plan any long trip, we decided to visit nearby place for a couple of days. Statue of Unity was on my radar and hence we plan to visit Statue of unity followed by Nashik.<br />
Our friend Ameya Deshpande and Wife Renu’s cousin brother Varun Joshi from Mumbai joined us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielJuRIC-hEbfPXClCBBDZtNca_Aw2TrUgnd7salGmW1QqJ3PZkJAIm1sGqfw-WqWFDA149NMde96GvW3TlwSYyHd-ceZ-CBqNDGvDb7irOd_KQ1AV0eDW9DA-VhynETd9g8q01KQc_uQh/s1600/_1022514.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielJuRIC-hEbfPXClCBBDZtNca_Aw2TrUgnd7salGmW1QqJ3PZkJAIm1sGqfw-WqWFDA149NMde96GvW3TlwSYyHd-ceZ-CBqNDGvDb7irOd_KQ1AV0eDW9DA-VhynETd9g8q01KQc_uQh/s640/_1022514.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Statue of Unity (SoU) at Sunset</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Status of Unity:</span></u></b><br />
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Statue of Unity (Also known as SoU) is a statue of independence activist Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875–1950), who was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India. He played a major role in uniting 562 princely states of India with a major part of the former British Raj to form the single Union of India.<br />
The statue is World’s tallest statue located in the Kevadiya, Gujarat on the River of Narmada. The statue is facing the Sardar Sarovar Dam, which is one of the largest dams. Statue’s height is 182 meters and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated it on 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on 31 October 2018.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sardar Sarovar Dam</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Our Route: </span></u></b></div>
Best Way to reach SoU by Road from Pune is Pune – Mumbai – Manor - Vapi – Valsad – Ankleshwar – Take a Right from Ankleshwar – Mulad – Take a right at Mulad – Rajpipla – Status of Unity (SoU)<br />
SoU is also accessible from Vadodara, Bharuch and Surat. Nearest railway, the station is Vadodara and Bharuch.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">20 & 21 December 2019: Pune to Statue of Unity:</span></u></b><br />
We left Pune after office time. This time, my i20 was not on the road and we drove Ameya's SUV 500. We picked up Varun from Mumbai and had dinner near Thane. We decided to drive a car turn by turn so everyone will get enough sleep. The highway was empty which made drive smooth and fast. We reached Ankleshwar by 5AM and then went towards the Statue of Unity.<br />
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We took halt at Gurudeshwar, which is a holy place of Lord Dattatreya and situated on the bank of Narmada River. We booked a room in Dharmshala for a couple of hours to freshen up. Gurudeshwar is the place where Paramahamsa Parivrajakacharya Sree Vasudevananda Saraswathy Swamy Maharaj took his Samadhi. The Samadhi Mandir is on the banks of Narmada River. We took a Darshan of Samadhi and Holy River Narmada before moving ahead for Statue of Unity. We had Lunch and reached the Statue of Unity at 12:30PM.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Statue of Unity Ticket system:</span></u></b></div>
Statue of Unity offers you three types of Tickets SoU Express Ticket, SoU Viewing Gallery and SoU entry Ticket.<br />
1. SoU Express Ticket contain, direct entry to lift/ elevator for viewing Gallery, Museum, Light and Sound show, Sardar Sarovar Dam view and Bus service. (Cost: INR1030)<br />
2. SoU viewing Gallery Ticket contains same as Express but the only difference is you will NOT get direct entry to lift/elevator (Wait time varies from 30 min to 90 min based on the crowd). (Cost: INR380 for Adult & INR230 for Child 3 to 15 year age)<br />
3. SoU entry ticket contains Museum, Light and Sound show, Sardar Sarovar Dam view and Bus service. (Cost: INR 150 for adult and INR 90 for child). This ticket will not allow you to go to viewing Gallery but it will allow you to visit the museum, which is at the base of the statue.<br />
You can book a ticket for other activities such as River Rafting, Jungle Safari (i.e. Zoo), Cycling tours, Children Nutrition Park, Boating, Cactus & Butterfly Garden, Kevadiya Bus tour and Ekta Nursery.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6aXeGs83pcdeY0_GrfR7Vcg4f3D_UY-veE-Hyg2Y86enL8oIuvs9yfh4_9rxX21bdTS4zsSOh-tfywuLtTZ7NUbUmy5uZqQadi-D-UN9quPI6sVZzOf7XtFY-n2wTXAQk7R_MRXJbqpC7/s1600/IMG_9261.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6aXeGs83pcdeY0_GrfR7Vcg4f3D_UY-veE-Hyg2Y86enL8oIuvs9yfh4_9rxX21bdTS4zsSOh-tfywuLtTZ7NUbUmy5uZqQadi-D-UN9quPI6sVZzOf7XtFY-n2wTXAQk7R_MRXJbqpC7/s640/IMG_9261.JPG" /></a><br />
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We booked SoU Express ticket to avoid rush/Queue for the elevator. Our Slot was from 4PM to 6PM but when we reached, we got to know that you can visit in any slot if you have Express Ticket. Either you can park your vehicle near Ekta Gate and then board their AC Bus service (Which is part of the ticket) OR you can take your vehicle until SoU parking. We prefer taking our own vehicle to gain the advantage of time flexibility and to avoid the queue at the Bus stop.</div>
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Statue of Unity is visible from a few kilometre distances. SoU is engineer’s marvel and you can feel its gigantic structure when you reach the base of the statue. We took multiple pit stops to capture the beauty of the statue from different locations. There is a small walk to reach the Ticket verification Gate. After ticket scanning, you entered in the statue of Unity paved approach walkway area. Statue area divided into 5 Zones.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Statue of Unity (SoU)</span></td></tr>
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Zone 1 consist of memorial Garden, Museum and small theatre. There is moving walkway (identical to escalators but on a flat surface) and well as paved approach walkway. You can feel the world’s tallest statue. Museum area consists of detailed information on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Information on Narmada River, life around River, Dam information, Scale Model of the statue, Huge sized Face structure of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Library. The library contains a great collection of Books based on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. There is information on how magnificent statue built from October 2013 to October 2018. There is a small theatre, which displays a film on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as well as the tribal culture of the state. You need a minimum of 2 hours to see the entire Museum in detail else, within in an hr one can just get the glimpse of the statue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQbXfnAtRzcsDLRG12xE5J21eXOMdo1mz80vjXhk4gTuz5bKSTps6oFYrCNOoXA1MiRPaPfnpRGIg2GHCiAnmrhzNXti7FmPKH79apBhYVtpcPKzfqOIVI7NQMFUr8WojTHnmLwLa52zm/s1600/_1022431.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQbXfnAtRzcsDLRG12xE5J21eXOMdo1mz80vjXhk4gTuz5bKSTps6oFYrCNOoXA1MiRPaPfnpRGIg2GHCiAnmrhzNXti7FmPKH79apBhYVtpcPKzfqOIVI7NQMFUr8WojTHnmLwLa52zm/s400/_1022431.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
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Zone 2 is the base area of the actual Statue. You reach up to Patel's toes. You can get an idea about the statue’s height as you are hardly able to match the height of the statue’s toes. Generally, people visit Zone 2 after Viewing Gallery. People with SoU entry ticket can access until this point. We clicked a lot of Photos here and tried to capture the entire Statue along with us.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UKJKBASm-88LgdNWWgQgH9bASamB254HTGGVBSxsTCt4Sm2Wusa6PYsOjtcLK8ZLjFonKVUlwZP0D-oE3ZHaO4hZQ2ZBvf7LEsvgztrwS5RLvC0651iSgEkMCDCD_hU-enX_uq5U6TUC/s1600/_1022435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="902" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UKJKBASm-88LgdNWWgQgH9bASamB254HTGGVBSxsTCt4Sm2Wusa6PYsOjtcLK8ZLjFonKVUlwZP0D-oE3ZHaO4hZQ2ZBvf7LEsvgztrwS5RLvC0651iSgEkMCDCD_hU-enX_uq5U6TUC/s400/_1022435.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
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Zone 3 consist of Viewing Gallery. It is one of the prime attraction from the Statue of Unity. People with Express Ticket or SoU viewing Gallery can access the viewing Gallery. Height of viewing gallery is 153 meters. You can see the breathtaking view of Sardar Sarovar Dam.<br />
Zone 4 is the maintenance area whereas Zone 5 area consists of shoulders and Head section of the statue.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">View from Statue of Unity Gallery</span></td></tr>
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After a beautiful visit to Statue, we went to the Valley of Flower. It is a small garden with a variety of flower plants and viewpoint for Sardar Sarovar Dam. Garden area is maintained well and it has no separate entry fee. Though there is less variety of flower, it is good to visit the place in the evening if you have spare time. We had a quick walk and then came back at Statue for evening Light and Sound show.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Make in INDIA at Valley of Flowers</td></tr>
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Light and Sound show starts at 7 PM (Time may change as per summer and winter). The entire tourist gathers in the evening to witness world-class Light and sound show. There are benches placed in the viewing area and you can see the show from the Garden area as well. Light and sound show explain the life journey of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the construction journey of Statue of Unity. Definitely, it is not to miss a thing from the Statue of Unity. Post Light and sound show, we went to Gurudeshwar to stay at the ashram. There is a Budget Hotel named “RBG Budget Stay” near SoU but all Rooms were booked. We had our dinner at Pramukh Food way restaurant.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SoU at Night</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
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<li>SoU entry: INR 1030/- for person express</li>
<li>Car fuel: INR4200/-</li>
<li>Express Toll: INR230/-</li>
<li>Snacks and coffee: INR 300/- for 3 people at Expressway Foodcourt</li>
<li>Mumbai Toll 1: INR 35/-</li>
<li>Mumbai Toll 2: INR 35/-</li>
<li>Dinner: Around INR 250/- per person (Food court from Mall at Thane)</li>
<li>Water Bottles: INR 60/- (3 Bottles)</li>
<li>GJ Toll-1: INR 70/-</li>
<li>GJ Toll-2: INR 70/-</li>
<li>GJ Toll-3: INR 70/-</li>
<li>GJ Toll-4: INR 60/-</li>
<li>GJ Toll-5: INR 70/-</li>
<li>Room charge at Gurudeshwar Ashram: INR 400/- (for 4 person room)</li>
<li>Car parking at SoU: INR 150/-</li>
<li>Snacks at SoU: INR 250/- for 4 people (Thepale, Samosa and Dhokla etc)</li>
<li>Water and Cold drink: INR200/-</li>
<li>Dinner: INR 890/- for 4 person</li>
<li>Stay at Gurudeshwar Ashram: INR 700/- for four-person as we got 7-bed dormitory.</li>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">23 December 2019: Statue of Unity to Nashik:</span></u></b><span style="color: #222222;"><u></u><u></u></span></div>
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We woke up by 7AM and again processed towards the Statue of Unity. Yesterday we get to know about Ekta Nursery, Zarwani Waterfall, butterfly Garden and Cactus Garden. We went to Kevadiya Village to try some local breakfast item. Our first destination was Ekta Nursery. They have a variety of plants, Bonsai plants, Bamboo products and canteen, which serves local Food. It was quick to visit before we processed towards Butterfly Garden and Cactus Garden.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local Food at Breakfast</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Ekta Nasurry</td></tr>
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Cactus Garden and Butterfly garden are located at the same place with common entry. The butterfly garden is an open garden with specific plants where different types of Butterfly Grow. They claim to have more than 30 species of butterfly (few species grow as per weather and season). We are able to spot around 10 species. You can see a variety of Butterfly from a close distance. Butterflies feed on the nectar of flowers hence there are a lot of flowering plants to provide them food. There are some information board, which explains which type of butterfly lives on plats. I personally feel that there should be more information on the butterfly.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaMa_fHgRoSU7li_MWx9Z8zKm5nsJkSgCYqd_2pMhtbR3k-FXAezk-gJQLl8WIIg4Rqe8XkqfNMR5NeK7wHsa6dExaOGfu-iovyg1ZNHbHukH0vvShdt2YljGB-3a82QgaSVuXr73aamP/s1600/IMG_9559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaMa_fHgRoSU7li_MWx9Z8zKm5nsJkSgCYqd_2pMhtbR3k-FXAezk-gJQLl8WIIg4Rqe8XkqfNMR5NeK7wHsa6dExaOGfu-iovyg1ZNHbHukH0vvShdt2YljGB-3a82QgaSVuXr73aamP/s640/IMG_9559.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tawny Coster Butterfly</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpDdu9m8UYDinVMugPA5GV-AQ5heREF0UirHvnBUoSSmjv41CT2c504Q-2MigWCUIdyJuYxbkZEiBJQjQnBIYpdjAQeW9JKBw6yrbFP0REEOr-9HHRSmz292sp_SsMZYo2oCZaV68WglA3/s1600/IMG_9511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpDdu9m8UYDinVMugPA5GV-AQ5heREF0UirHvnBUoSSmjv41CT2c504Q-2MigWCUIdyJuYxbkZEiBJQjQnBIYpdjAQeW9JKBw6yrbFP0REEOr-9HHRSmz292sp_SsMZYo2oCZaV68WglA3/s640/IMG_9511.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plain Tiger Butterfly</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxk_dKSrejsEW-hGvAZrGO_2A4zRHbKGdIgUJ1TFZglSAkTw_JbRXtizM9Cx0ciMRgVaXzMqJUYc5I7QS41LqLXiw7Ad8-lRdah2BJwP2Wj634A3lJ48IVifCQHq-p7yYv71-kq2LUpMs/s1600/IMG-20200317-WA0095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxk_dKSrejsEW-hGvAZrGO_2A4zRHbKGdIgUJ1TFZglSAkTw_JbRXtizM9Cx0ciMRgVaXzMqJUYc5I7QS41LqLXiw7Ad8-lRdah2BJwP2Wj634A3lJ48IVifCQHq-p7yYv71-kq2LUpMs/s640/IMG-20200317-WA0095.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jezebel Butterfly (Top), Blue Tiger Butterfly (Left) and Common Crow(Right)</td></tr>
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Cactus garden has a huge variety of cactus plants. Some of them are from different part of the world. It is hard to believe that Cactus has such a beautiful shape and design. The entire garden is maintained very well. There is a watchtower built to see the Sardar Sarovar Dam. After Cactus Garden, we went to Zarwani waterfall. It is around 10-11 km from Cactus Garden. The road is narrow and goes through dense forest. From the parking area, you have to walk around for 1 km to reach a Waterfall. Zarwani waterfall is small in size but beautiful. There are a couple of huts to stay near a waterfall and small Adventure Park having games like Rappelling, zip line, climbing wall etc.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyRotpYArc7LrB53YSINPaAgSIGs5tYjnijsGY_1WY9aysoRAI6jbxjLs7yZ4oG3Q6jsnw4tPR-d_UEE777oq_YRXgOjw4x2a1ZXia-9eQppSVeEGcV_RwrdT9ix0ZAfq5mZqDHRzOiRI/s1600/IMG-20200317-WA0093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyRotpYArc7LrB53YSINPaAgSIGs5tYjnijsGY_1WY9aysoRAI6jbxjLs7yZ4oG3Q6jsnw4tPR-d_UEE777oq_YRXgOjw4x2a1ZXia-9eQppSVeEGcV_RwrdT9ix0ZAfq5mZqDHRzOiRI/s640/IMG-20200317-WA0093.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(From Top left to right) Golden Barrel Cactus, cactus at Cactus Garde, Gymnocalycium mihanovichii (Red Flower), Cereus jamacaru (Bottom left), Rebutia heliosa (Bottom Middle), Mammillaria elongata (Bottom Right)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Oq1Mhi6jXWag6hsa4Tx-XQexFZtFeOBJNTXlN7crDO-bITOa36C290RsjJsmov1ZcQ5F1aBNUMvhshYbI7u3qLMYZq3wrwv4_mG7E4AUgu4m5ab6-19Kr8XZ65ojB9kpBCtSRxRj1gN1/s1600/_1022654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Oq1Mhi6jXWag6hsa4Tx-XQexFZtFeOBJNTXlN7crDO-bITOa36C290RsjJsmov1ZcQ5F1aBNUMvhshYbI7u3qLMYZq3wrwv4_mG7E4AUgu4m5ab6-19Kr8XZ65ojB9kpBCtSRxRj1gN1/s640/_1022654.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zarwani Waterfall</td></tr>
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Our last halt before we leave the status of Unity was Ekta Mall. It is located near Ekta gate from where Bus service is available for the statue. Ekta Mall has multiple shops, which offers you a handicraft product from different part of India. Besides Ekta Mall, there is an attraction “children nutrition park”. Its small toy train journey, which takes halt at few stations. Each station is theme base station, which gives information on nutrition, food processing and horticulture. A couple of stations are equipped with games and virtual reality playing area.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLs5748jina4wEn3UXsQIWuEiNR-8nW39QXQL1qmzhbDIil1VkqgMQTzTVh2zs9JYHGknWCRo4aUZp6uj5UMnlYM2tmVE4fK2Lpm-chO7fbxeetQyF4FOVEKfNwYna6z-xJVAfTwEj77x1/s1600/_1022677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLs5748jina4wEn3UXsQIWuEiNR-8nW39QXQL1qmzhbDIil1VkqgMQTzTVh2zs9JYHGknWCRo4aUZp6uj5UMnlYM2tmVE4fK2Lpm-chO7fbxeetQyF4FOVEKfNwYna6z-xJVAfTwEj77x1/s640/_1022677.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.4px;">Children Nutrition Park</span></td></tr>
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By 4 PM, We left Status of Unity. We reached Nashik safely after 8 hours of comfortable Drive. I will upload Separate Blog on Nashik City, which we tried to explore in the next 3 days.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Breakfast at Kevadiya: INR 160/-</li>
<li>Tea & coffee: INR 40/- (2 tea n 2 Coffee)</li>
<li>Ekta Nursery entry fee: INR 120/- for 4 people</li>
<li>Entry Fee for Butterfly & cactus: INR 160/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Galaxy restaurant: 580/-</li>
<li>Coffee: INR 45/- 3 coffees</li>
<li>Water: INR 40/-</li>
<li>Dinner: INR 480/-</li>
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-71069079558458223302019-12-15T16:15:00.000+05:302019-12-28T16:17:33.010+05:30Pune: Shaniwar Wada<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We had a long break in the year 2019 due to some personal reasons and unable to plan any trips. I read one quote on the Internet “More you travel, more you learn”. It’s was difficult for us to stop learning hence we decided to visit a few places from Pune. Being local, we had visited the place long back but it always good to visit again.<br /><br />This short Blog is about Shaniwar Wada, historical fort of Pune, which was center of Maratha Empire and seat of Peshwas.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaniwar Wada Delhi Gate</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Location of Shaniwar Wada:</span></u></b><br />Shaniwar Wada is located on the bank of Mula-Mutha River. It is center location of Pune city and area known as Shaniwar Peth.</div>
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">GPS Location:</span></u></b> 18.520212, 73.855230<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Shaniwar Wada:</span></u></b><br /> Shaniwar Wada was the capital of Peshwas of Maratha Empire. It was built by Peshwa Baji Rao I and ceremonial foundation was took place on 10 January 1730. Shaniwar Wada completed on 22 January 1732, Saturday at the cost of 16,110/- which was the huge amount at that time. As per the Local stories, plan was to build seven storied capital building made up of Stones but permission was denied from emperor. It is to be said that No one can built the stone complex greater/larger than King’s palace. Hence, only first floor was buildup of Stones and rest floors were built by Wooden.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaniwar Wada</td></tr>
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Shaniwar Wada was home and work place of Peshwas such as Baji Rao I, Bhau Saheb, Ragunath Rao, Vishwas Rao, Madhav Rao, Narayan Rao, Sawai Madhav Rao etc. Even after completion of Shaniwar Wada, Peshwas made serval changes in Wada as per their requirement. Nanasaheb Peshwa made arrangement of water, which was carried from Katraj Lake (7.5km away) to Shaniwar Wada via underground channels.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaniwar Wada</td></tr>
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Shaniwar Wada has five entrance Gates. The main entrance Gate is known as Delhi Darwaja (Gate). Peshwas Aim was to capture Delhi throne and expand Maratha Empire hence Gate, which was facing north named as Delhi Gate. Baji Rao Peshwa fulfilled this dream. It is also current entrance for Shaniwar Wada. This Gate is Large enough to enter Elephants whereas to stop enemy’s elephants, each door has 72 long steel spikes in 9x8-grid pattern. Two solid bastions are built with arrow loops and holes to attack on approaching enemy’s army. You can see Ganesh painting after entering from Shaniwar Wada. Apart from Delhi Entrance, there are four more entrance for Shaniwar Wada. They are Mastani Darwaja (Gate) or Aliibahadur Darwaja, Khidki (Window) Darwaja (Gate), Ganesh Darwaja and Jambhul Darwaja or Narayan Darwaja.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delhi gate Bastions of Shaniwar Wada</td></tr>
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Mastani Gate named as Mastani (Baji Rao’s second Wife) use to travel outside Shaniwar Wada. This entrance was also use by Shamsher bahadur (Son) and Aliibahadur (Grandson). This is the smallest entrance of Shaniwar Wada.</div>
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Khidki (Window) Darwaja also known as Dindi Darwaja. Small Window on the Door gives this name to it. Ganesh Darwaja named due to Ganesh temple facing the entrance. Narayan Darwaja named as body of Narayan Peshwa was took out of Wada from this Gate. This Entrance also known as Jambhul entrance.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hall Above Delhi Darwaja...Shaniwar Wada</td></tr>
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There is large hall above Delhi Gate of Shaniwar Wada. You can view entire Shaniwar Wada from the hall. You can take a walk on the top of Wall from this point. Entire wall with Bastions are in good conditions. Shaniwar Wada consists of important building such as palace of Peshwa, Diwankhana, Dance hall, Arasa (Mirror) Mahal, Ganesh Mahal, Mastani Mahal, Garden etc. Wada was seven-floored high and last floor was allocated to Peshwa. Arasa Mahal was built for Sawai Madhavrao. There was Ganesh temple inside Ganesh Mahal hence it is named as Ganesh Mahal. Narayan Rao was in Ganesh Mahal when Guards were about to kill him. It is to be said that palace walls were fill of paintings from Ramayana and Mahabharata. Another important feature of Wada is Hazari Karanje (Fountain of a thousand jets). This was built for entertainment of Sawai Madhav Rao when he was young. Fountain shape is of Lotus with 16 petals.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Shaniwar Wada</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Shaniwar Wada</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hajari Karanje of Shaniwar Wada</td></tr>
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The most interesting story associated with Shaniwar Wada is that of the horrible murder of Peshwa Narayan Rao. Narayan Rao became Peshwa upon the death of his elder brother Madhavrao. Since Narayan Rao was only 17, his uncle Raghunathrao acted as his regent. However, the relationship between the two deteriorated rapidly and Narayan Rao placed Raghunathrao and his wife Anandibai under house arrest. Upset with Narayan Rao becoming Peshwa, Raghunathrao decided to use the disaffected Gardi guards to unseat him. According to legend, Raghunathrao sent a message to the captain of the Gardis, Sumer Singh Gardi, saying “Narayanrao na dhara”, meaning “catch Narayan Rao”. Anandibai intercepted the letter before it reached Sumer Singh, and made a simple but deadly change to the message. She changed the “dh” to “maa”. The message now read “Narayan Rao na maara”, or “kill Narayan Rao”. When the Gardis entered Shaniwar Wada to attack Narayan Rao, the panicked boy ran towards his uncle’s quarters screaming “Kaka mala vachwa” (Uncle save me!) but Raghunathrao did nothing, and Narayan Rao was hacked to pieces. So brutal was the attack that Narayanrao’s body had to be carried out of Shaniwar Wada in a pot and quickly cremated. Raghunathrao did become Peshwa after Narayan Rao’s murder, but could not remain on the throne for long. At the time of Narayan Rao’s murder, his wife Gangabai was pregnant. The courtiers and knights of the Empire deposed Raghunathrao and placed on the throne the Gangabai new born son, Sawai Madhavrao.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Important Dates associated with Shaniwar Wada</span></u></b></div>
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10 January 1730: Ceremonial foundation was took place<br />22 January 1722: Vastushant of Shaniwar Wada<br />30 August 1773: Death/Murder of Narayan Rao Peshwa<br />24 October 1795: Sawai Madhav Rao’s Death<br />17 November 1817: British captured Shaniwar Wada<br />27 February 1828: Great fire started in Shaniwar Wada ruined entire palace. It is said that Shaniwar Wada was under fire for 7 days.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Entry Ticket:</span></u></b><br />Entry ticket for Indian: INR 25/-<br />Entry ticket for non-Indian: INR 300/-<br />No chargers for Photography whereas separate chargers/permission required for videography.<br />Light and sound Show at 07:30PM (In Marathi) and 08:30PM (In Hindi) [Ticket counter Opens at 7PM]</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhohlhGgZTs3tGifNjmZJnM2AkJw5XT0XCo1THIvh3XfbXg0IxLRURhQVO_gef8l5TmdVPMkCTvFJ-4QZBvgIYXIgknYnUTntBK5MHCYarPQpHxRX_CHvwERatgNTLQ4ULxniUwQ6iMrP/s1600/IMG_20191116_090918-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1264" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhohlhGgZTs3tGifNjmZJnM2AkJw5XT0XCo1THIvh3XfbXg0IxLRURhQVO_gef8l5TmdVPMkCTvFJ-4QZBvgIYXIgknYnUTntBK5MHCYarPQpHxRX_CHvwERatgNTLQ4ULxniUwQ6iMrP/s400/IMG_20191116_090918-01.jpeg" width="315" /></a></div>
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Blogs on Pune</span></u></b></div>
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<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2019/12/pune-shinde-chhatri.html" target="_blank">Shinde Chhatri</a></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-48842704354745566062019-12-02T20:35:00.000+05:302019-12-17T20:36:16.139+05:30Pune: Shinde Chhatri<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We had a long break in the year 2019 due to some personal reasons and unable to plan any trips. I read one quote on the Internet that More you travel, More you learn. It’s was difficult for us to stop learning hence we decided to visit a few places from Pune. Being local, we had visited the place long back but it always good to visit again.<br /><br />This short Blog is about Shinde Chhatri, a memorial to Military leader Mahadji Shinde from Maratha Empire under the Peshwas.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Shinde Chhatri... Photo Credit: Renuka Kulkarni</span></td></tr>
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Shinde Chhatri Location:</span></u></b><br />It is located in Wanwadi area of Pune city. It is just 5.6km away from Swargate whereas 6.3km from Pune Railway station.<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">GPS Location:</span></u></b> 18.491597,73.897307 <br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Shinde Chhatri:</span></u></b><br />Shinde Chhatri is memorial to Military leader Mahadji Shinde from Maratha Empire under the Peshwas. He born on 3 December 1730 and he died on 12 February 1794 at age of 64. This memorial complex also had Shiva temple whereas Mahadji Shinde’s last rites were performed in the complex. In the year 1965, Samadhi was constructed outside Shiva Temple in the memory of Mahadji Shinde.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2ySlyargnjR4CbVEHUMzK_O44VZ2oGuzpJxUhN2D2yojSjxinh3SSZhLwykHe-GUSJb9_iYK9SBizKmQQANCf3LTx6WxEKH_d3nBO_KvPGJcQFExXMfyDNjv5rNQ3mUu6fQbnljA-SDD/s1600/IMG_20191116_073319-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2ySlyargnjR4CbVEHUMzK_O44VZ2oGuzpJxUhN2D2yojSjxinh3SSZhLwykHe-GUSJb9_iYK9SBizKmQQANCf3LTx6WxEKH_d3nBO_KvPGJcQFExXMfyDNjv5rNQ3mUu6fQbnljA-SDD/s640/IMG_20191116_073319-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Shinde Chhatri... Photo Credit: Renuka Kulkarni</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Shinde Chhatri... Photo Credit: Renuka Kulkarni</span></td></tr>
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Mahadji Shinde was appointed in North India post-Third battle of Panipat. He recovered the loss post third battle of Panipat and became one of three pillars of Maratha Resurrection. He was the important leader during the First Anglo Maratha war between British and Maratha. British failed to win the war and forced to settle in the treaty of Salbai in 1782. He was a mediator between Peshwa and British. He also won Jodhpur and Jaipur through the battle of Patan and Merta. He helped Jats of Mathura during 1772-73 to destroy the power of Pashtun from Najibabad. His achievements over south were his victory over Nizam of Hyderabad and peace with Tipu Sultan of Mysore. He brought Maratha Glory over north post-Panipat war. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Shinde Chhatri... Photo Credit: Renuka Kulkarni</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vithal Rukhmini Temple at Shinde Chhatri... Photo Credit: Renuka Kulkarni</td></tr>
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<br /> Mahadji Shinde died at Wanavdi near Pune on 12 February 1794. He described as Regent of Mughal affair and also Mughal gave him the title as Head of the Amir’s (Amir-IL-Umara).<br /> Coming back from History, the architecture of Shinde Chhatri is a combination of Anglo-Rajasthani style of construction. Temple’s structure is made up of Black stone. The chhatri Hall is a two-story building with beautiful carving and design on it. Windows panels are multi Color stained Glass which looks beautiful and allows light to fall inside in attractive hues. You can see a beautiful Rajasthani pattern over window panels. Interiors view of Shinde Chhatri is mind-blowing. Painting and carving on Pillars, ceiling are just amazing. You can see photographs/paintings of Shinde Dynasty on the Pillars. There is a spiral staircase to go in the roof which has a European touch.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inner Hall of Shinde Chhatri... Photo Credit: Renuka Kulkarni</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inner hall of Shinde Chhatri... Photo Credit: Renuka Kulkarni</td></tr>
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<br /> Shiva temple is just behind Shinde chhatri (Hall). Carved design is must watch at the base corner of Temple. The complex is also consist of the temple of Lord Vittala. Best time to visit the place is morning.<br /> Shinde Chhatri (Umbrella) consider as is a sign of respect to great warrior hence you need to close umbrellas inside the complex even if it’s a sunny day or Raining.<br />To view the entire complex in detail, you need 1-1.5 hours.</div>
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Entry ticket: INR 5/- for Indian and INR25/- for Non-Indian.</li>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-25916086517897760482019-07-23T23:00:00.000+05:302019-08-11T20:44:17.152+05:30Korlai Fort, Chaul and Kashid, Konkan on weekend<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We were looking for a quick weekend trip and decided to visit Korlai fort along with Kashid. We have visited Kashid and nearby beach multiple time so the focus was to explore Korlai. It was the Renuka's (Wife) first visit to Korlai.<br />
Travelers for this trip were me and Renuka.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxc17d4Ohyphenhyphenwug-mqGeHHgUThsvSitsK0lKHcvxYiLYsPU_VqnFr9L3rirMjM4RMezWWVDwFlphjo8UaC5ug9bEytBeZGZYVk5WLoYq4QePg4C1Nu8iT753mk52oEp_izWwARGqIycMZWDa/s1600/YDDU2577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sea View from Korlai Fort" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxc17d4Ohyphenhyphenwug-mqGeHHgUThsvSitsK0lKHcvxYiLYsPU_VqnFr9L3rirMjM4RMezWWVDwFlphjo8UaC5ug9bEytBeZGZYVk5WLoYq4QePg4C1Nu8iT753mk52oEp_izWwARGqIycMZWDa/s640/YDDU2577.JPG" title="Sea View from Korlai Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea View from Korlai Fort</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Kashid and Chaul</span></u></b><br />
Kashid is a beach town on Alibag-Murud road. It is popular mainly because of its white sand, curvy beach shape, mountains behind beach and beautiful sea view. Kashid has a 3 km stretch of beach tucked in between two rocky hillocks with Casuarinas groves all around the seashore. Few sea-facing resorts are under construction in kashid and lots of homestay accommodations are available.<br />
Kashid beach is generally crowded by Mumbai people on weekends so my advice is to visit this place on weekdays to enjoy this beautiful sandy beach.<br />
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Chaul is a former city of Portuguese India. It is known as one of the oldest Former city from Konkan region. There are 360 temples in Chaul. Korlai Fort in the town of Korlia. This fort was built in 1521 by the Portuguese with the permission of Burhan Nizam. Fort was used for keeping watch on River and on Chaul area.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Our Route:-</span></u></b><br />
Best way to reach Kashid/Chaul is Pune - National highway towards Mumbai- join Expressway - Lonavala - After crossing Lonavala-Khandala on Expressway, there is Khopoli exit - Take a left at Khopoli square for Pen - Pen - Alibag - Chaul - Kashid.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">22 June 2019: Pune to Kashid via Chaul:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up by 5.30 AM and left home at 6:00 AM. We chose the route via Khopoli to reach Chaul. We reached in Chaul without taking a single break. We decided to visit a couple of ancient temples from Chaul as it is practically not possible to cover all the temples from Chaul. Our first destination was Rameshwar Mandir from Chaul. Temple is of Hemadpanthi style of architecture. Temple has been renovated various times in the past to make it attractive, however, the exact year when it was built is not known. Lord Shiva is the foremost deity in the temple. Temple has 3 Water tanks namely Parjanya (Rain) kund, Agni (Fire) kund, and wayu (Air) kund representing three elements of nature.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKy52A6hpRG1kCaFmL0jeBf-02QHdgTqkYkl3cVUeWyFiwudqNbhshyphenhyphen3T4hKn_oN4tPTiKjyWUxEq4kDlvJQ474ClQlLIhy7My_PwTj5OckwEmY-nXokvagyD4wQnUOUhLX_a0ZEjYsMVe/s1600/IMG_8579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKy52A6hpRG1kCaFmL0jeBf-02QHdgTqkYkl3cVUeWyFiwudqNbhshyphenhyphen3T4hKn_oN4tPTiKjyWUxEq4kDlvJQ474ClQlLIhy7My_PwTj5OckwEmY-nXokvagyD4wQnUOUhLX_a0ZEjYsMVe/s640/IMG_8579.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rameshwaram Mandir</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaIpCJZUwqulAW2CrQukbA8d1fhAibinTH4nAfP0EGYiFf9wUCPuOVn6SPlf6MvODW90XO7vo3SBkgMbTaIEMl2Bopbsst8T-FvWkeEtIFADVn45ktAvHT_NiP0NqCbqguQrHqReK-lMuV/s1600/IMG_20190622_090010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shree Vakhanath Temple" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaIpCJZUwqulAW2CrQukbA8d1fhAibinTH4nAfP0EGYiFf9wUCPuOVn6SPlf6MvODW90XO7vo3SBkgMbTaIEMl2Bopbsst8T-FvWkeEtIFADVn45ktAvHT_NiP0NqCbqguQrHqReK-lMuV/s640/IMG_20190622_090010.jpg" title="Shree Vakhanath Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shree Vakhanath Temple</td></tr>
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After a quick visit, we saw a couple of temples from Chaul. Most of the temples are now renovated but their style of architecture is ancient. We left Chaul and had our breakfast before reaching Kashid. we were not interested to stay near Kashid beach hence we prefer to stay a couple of KM before the beach. We checked a few hotels and checked-in in Hotel Coco In.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqLMoVsTfJ_8MLYIbBMmGppPGwGzBpakT8Ejn4WG9TbVfK9GIqjeEMAH9oOoicF_WP7-DjgUOuh95gdh9pUbre6PMOuvnS3Qq2LaAqRv7M1WUgLyNybp-dMgRGGL_eeaWLC50dkG0iM0uS/s1600/IMG_20190622_090334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqLMoVsTfJ_8MLYIbBMmGppPGwGzBpakT8Ejn4WG9TbVfK9GIqjeEMAH9oOoicF_WP7-DjgUOuh95gdh9pUbre6PMOuvnS3Qq2LaAqRv7M1WUgLyNybp-dMgRGGL_eeaWLC50dkG0iM0uS/s640/IMG_20190622_090334.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganesh Temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxdeg5s4_zPdCvzjgoUhgA1KWFNStGDoBKhqqnXl1wJELsvcks-FnmAJzI9gluQrH4Bb-sjjAhI6M1qHXWv6Czm2vorM9JvIEw1CkMPr08-t8IsP6GZhOhl4ibkQK2mLzHpy7ylHA8_Om/s1600/IMG_20190622_091206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxdeg5s4_zPdCvzjgoUhgA1KWFNStGDoBKhqqnXl1wJELsvcks-FnmAJzI9gluQrH4Bb-sjjAhI6M1qHXWv6Czm2vorM9JvIEw1CkMPr08-t8IsP6GZhOhl4ibkQK2mLzHpy7ylHA8_Om/s640/IMG_20190622_091206.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mukhari Ganapati Temple</td></tr>
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All the rooms from the hotel are sea-facing though the beach was rocky. Room was large in size and clean. This property is typically for family or people who want peace and relaxation time. We had our lunch in the hotel which I found tasty but a bit overpriced. We were expecting Monsoon Konkan trip but there was No sign of Rain at all. Rather than Monsoon, Sun was dominating in the sky.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1WYTuk3dDVMPW1RjZQc57ZaZMjiiidnolGDAL4LXW2i4jZSc4eIOXg-7k7YRmQkNmuGzxLBzK7RxEcBvQ6SVXxpdkMhMKuiblSqvU4aytdasTFyjHPk8d7nKvydfZg6vjEXytVe1btvP/s1600/IMG_20190622_180141-PANO+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="730" data-original-width="1600" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1WYTuk3dDVMPW1RjZQc57ZaZMjiiidnolGDAL4LXW2i4jZSc4eIOXg-7k7YRmQkNmuGzxLBzK7RxEcBvQ6SVXxpdkMhMKuiblSqvU4aytdasTFyjHPk8d7nKvydfZg6vjEXytVe1btvP/s640/IMG_20190622_180141-PANO+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel Coco Inn</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6RUZVy73Vf7m3wN3JuD_Mqcxtkz_084uPNzlggjUJzfp_FW3qsJPiYsabhWL6NURkH8BfwxLn3uypKgR5E6lmZqRFdcF3fjXSexKEAKas1V_FAkIEFihFUVDzFHmhyxQnEYJX1IJ4EOa/s1600/IMG_20190622_135505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6RUZVy73Vf7m3wN3JuD_Mqcxtkz_084uPNzlggjUJzfp_FW3qsJPiYsabhWL6NURkH8BfwxLn3uypKgR5E6lmZqRFdcF3fjXSexKEAKas1V_FAkIEFihFUVDzFHmhyxQnEYJX1IJ4EOa/s640/IMG_20190622_135505.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veg Meal</td></tr>
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In the evening, We went to Rocky beach to witness Sunset. Monsoon clouds gathered on the horizon which skipped Sunset show. We had dinner in the hotel itself and enjoyed the India Vs Afganistan World cup cricket match. You can Visit Revdanda Beach and Fort which is near to Chaul. As we have visited that place multiple times so we prefer to stay in the Hotel for the evening. You can check my <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2014/12/trip-to-phansad-wildlife-sanctuary-and.html" target="_blank">Blog on Revdanda and Phansad Forst here</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qb8NOXgV8Ffx2XrBRp5Lm30nUbM3YLyKu5DDY6eeui2-aNWsZJMfetDrhyphenhyphenzESErAAXl3F0paSQp25J47g7WFQr2PUqgaob2ue7ilNQotfsK4r9PGYLph85HrgLxCOrJE1nDazcB__3N7/s1600/IMG_8614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="1600" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qb8NOXgV8Ffx2XrBRp5Lm30nUbM3YLyKu5DDY6eeui2-aNWsZJMfetDrhyphenhyphenzESErAAXl3F0paSQp25J47g7WFQr2PUqgaob2ue7ilNQotfsK4r9PGYLph85HrgLxCOrJE1nDazcB__3N7/s640/IMG_8614.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses: </span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Petrol: INR1500/-</li>
<li>Expressway Toll Till Khopoili Exit: INR 138/-</li>
<li>Breakfast near Kashid: INR100/- (Omlet Pav 40/- and Cold drink 20/-)</li>
<li>Coco inn Hotel: INR3000/- for AC (INR4000 for AC and INR3000 for Non AC on weekends)</li>
<li>A veg meal in Lunch: INR700/- (₹350/- per person)</li>
<li>Water bottles: INR 125/- (5 bottled)</li>
<li>Dinner: 400/- (1 Prowns Meal and Extra Rice)</li>
<li>Kokam Surbat: INR45/- per Glass</li>
<li>Cold drink: INR45/-</li>
<li>Coconut water: INR 80/- for 2</li>
</ul>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span></u></b>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">23 June 2019: Korlai Fort - Pune:</span></u></b><br />
We woke by 7 AM and feel fresh as Monsoon clouds were entered in Konkan. Quickly we left for Korlai fort. We reached by 8AM and got to know that Fort entrance opened after 9AM. I was aware of another route to enter in the Fort from Northside and Security allow us to go from that route.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqFd2EIXOx3VfVFLk091mnyKMbEOFLae86evzUl56P-OIIFx36t_VcDbd_usD0WBCkjDuWOorx2ZUjJwQ8XEvy-1qKGGK6OXiYp8YSEXFxsDRbGPRLESIbPXDerA1h_anYTPJEq1QOND8/s1600/IMG_8678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqFd2EIXOx3VfVFLk091mnyKMbEOFLae86evzUl56P-OIIFx36t_VcDbd_usD0WBCkjDuWOorx2ZUjJwQ8XEvy-1qKGGK6OXiYp8YSEXFxsDRbGPRLESIbPXDerA1h_anYTPJEq1QOND8/s640/IMG_8678.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fort Area</td></tr>
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Proper stone steps are laid from lighthouse till the top. It takes hardly 15-20 mins to reach the top. we approached the fort from Northside after Quick small trek. Northmost point of Fort has a storehouse of ammunition and place to park ships at that time. The Fort is mainly divided into 6 Parts. After Crossing 2 sections with some slow elevation, we reached the entrance which is connected via Stone steps.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbGHgyNSU5QGm3uV9ikQcSF7Q9LzsL6PR6AZ4a11Ipif_P56oIn56GsmqmVMTsiAa8OEcxxy0MGPQo_2165Hsm-pn9yxDsbQhuYMZtSIEBGNJ9CxwiynqNfrGLUSRvg3H_qi0ycrcSaWq4/s1600/IMG_8641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbGHgyNSU5QGm3uV9ikQcSF7Q9LzsL6PR6AZ4a11Ipif_P56oIn56GsmqmVMTsiAa8OEcxxy0MGPQo_2165Hsm-pn9yxDsbQhuYMZtSIEBGNJ9CxwiynqNfrGLUSRvg3H_qi0ycrcSaWq4/s640/IMG_8641.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fort entrance</td></tr>
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Next section has Canons and Bastion. Entrance to the next section is in proper shape. You can see the small Shiva Temple and Shiv-Linga. There is a Water trench opposite to small temple but it is covered. In the Next Section, you can see the chapel and Portuguese inscriptions. There is another entrance on your left. Looking at the entrance construction, It should be the main entrance at that time to enter the Fort or Chapel.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4-g270zyT4y7dB9Ff0JASabHdH8B6Ei2ae-17kLDiipjPf4AQnx6NslYHUlzaosZSiNK_mVZnsjwRG5C_tb9MsQFvT5AkQHuQFFBuYTxGNytItSDJeODlyvrG4SAIScjzBtHcfb5EEYc/s1600/IMG_8671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4-g270zyT4y7dB9Ff0JASabHdH8B6Ei2ae-17kLDiipjPf4AQnx6NslYHUlzaosZSiNK_mVZnsjwRG5C_tb9MsQFvT5AkQHuQFFBuYTxGNytItSDJeODlyvrG4SAIScjzBtHcfb5EEYc/s640/IMG_8671.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shiva Temple at Korlai Fort</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCB5AIy5lgSBBP5LVCYa06MqJ1gtTMJQI1o9FxQW2abrvEUM5d19HgS2XTH8rF-P84ov78gcrFQM76tUjucIyR7nSrzaV0kSgEYRMWOH8K_n_tUVOvvQUh57QYM7G0bWVXgjL7FR3gPI2A/s1600/IMG_8663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCB5AIy5lgSBBP5LVCYa06MqJ1gtTMJQI1o9FxQW2abrvEUM5d19HgS2XTH8rF-P84ov78gcrFQM76tUjucIyR7nSrzaV0kSgEYRMWOH8K_n_tUVOvvQUh57QYM7G0bWVXgjL7FR3gPI2A/s640/IMG_8663.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chapel on Korlai Fort</td></tr>
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There is a small entrance behind the chapel for the last section of the fort. You can see the 3-4 Cannons. All the cannons are mounted in wheel cart. Wheel carts are newly built and placed to keep heritage cannon on it. View from the Southmost point is breathtaking, You can see the sea on your left and Korlai village on your left. we spend some time to witness the beautiful view of Sea and Monsoon approach over the Arabian sea.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaRai3xyhAbrSr3NZhxM_rIyaj0GQZRBZuFMtHZ1cnl35nhXUzGM47tTGjJojy_PIUc7GgKQ3AFogRBG8M1UEDRbXhiZ6rW3DOiwNE4qJstBku-t73CNuHbm61LBOZ967_n8YVPZOVyFY/s1600/IMG_8644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaRai3xyhAbrSr3NZhxM_rIyaj0GQZRBZuFMtHZ1cnl35nhXUzGM47tTGjJojy_PIUc7GgKQ3AFogRBG8M1UEDRbXhiZ6rW3DOiwNE4qJstBku-t73CNuHbm61LBOZ967_n8YVPZOVyFY/s400/IMG_8644.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Behind Chapel</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxsh4_sHiP4_qQ_wsvM_AT0jeSNLGMAl07ibBWb0ELlCVvWTJjka9I9MLzB6moTEXAW1OvfjpHHZNAfqT6UIVM41dIgj3x7PrP5GNOqo91af9PPhsfvGgk10JYcs7LPv1uhCmJFyymW8eX/s1600/IMG_20190623_085712-PANO+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View from Korlai Fort" border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="1600" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxsh4_sHiP4_qQ_wsvM_AT0jeSNLGMAl07ibBWb0ELlCVvWTJjka9I9MLzB6moTEXAW1OvfjpHHZNAfqT6UIVM41dIgj3x7PrP5GNOqo91af9PPhsfvGgk10JYcs7LPv1uhCmJFyymW8eX/s640/IMG_20190623_085712-PANO+copy.jpg" title="View from Korlai Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Korlai Fort</td></tr>
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Korlai was initially known as the “Rock of Chaul”. In 1594, there was a chaotic situation after Burhan Nizam died. The Portuguese tried to take advantage of this by building a fortification. But Hussein Nizam perceived the danger and decided to fortify this mountain himself. The Portuguese opposed this and they signed a treaty. It was decided that inseam would not build a fort and the Portuguese would not pose him any threat on the seas. Second Burhan Nizam succeeded in building a fort there. Sardar Fattekhan cannoned the walls of Revdanda fort soon. The Portuguese were short of soldiers and ordered more army. They then attacked the fort by invading the base village. They won the fight and captured Korlai fort. In 1684, Sambhaji Maharaj made an unsuccessful attempt to capture the fort. In 1739, Chimaji Appa (From Maratha emperor) made a strong attack on the fort and captured it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpFRQhwF7Ykp9mn5Jo2u5DdYZ4EDPu9D7301Tbp6OqGp714utyQkj7UmAuJ9di-01YrhylLiVUcSwQrjNmBDGssfxKU5dEdBeUTdR-MwxPhHukmmq2P081NeGu1lMU4SwctjzrxEXnW1M/s1600/IMG_20190623_083027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpFRQhwF7Ykp9mn5Jo2u5DdYZ4EDPu9D7301Tbp6OqGp714utyQkj7UmAuJ9di-01YrhylLiVUcSwQrjNmBDGssfxKU5dEdBeUTdR-MwxPhHukmmq2P081NeGu1lMU4SwctjzrxEXnW1M/s640/IMG_20190623_083027.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Korlai Fort</td></tr>
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We came down quickly and left the fort. You can visit the Lighthouse By paying a nominal fee. Lighthouse engineer explains the functionality of lighthouse, Radar system and how the entire system communicates with the ships and the control room which is in Mumbai.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cannon on Korlai</td></tr>
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We reached Hotel and had our breakfast. After some rest, we check-out from the hotel and started our return journey. We took a small stop to visit Birla Ganesh Temple. It is located in Revdanda-Murud Rd near Revdanda Bridge. The architecture is pretty good and well maintained. Camera and Mobiles are strictly not allowed in the temple area. No locker system available so better to keep in your vehicle.<br />
Our next destination was Nagaon. we went to Nagaon only for Lunch and we skipped Beach as it was overcrowded (as always). You can read my <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2013/03/nagaon-kashid-beach-trip.html" target="_blank">travel blog on Nagaon here</a>. We had tasty Seafood meal at Mahesh restaurant near the beach. On the way to Alibag from Nagaon, there was one small temple. It is known as Nav-nag temple (Nine snake’s temple). Hardly any tourists visit this place. Local says that the Name of this village came because of this place. In the temple, you can see a total of 10 rocks having snake images on it. 9 were originally placed here and in recent time someone added 10th snake idol.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King Fish Meal</td></tr>
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We left Nagaon after some Konkani Product shopping and came to Pune safely via Pen - Expressway.<br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b><u>Expenses:</u></b> </span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Korlai Fort parking: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Korlai Fort entry: INR 40/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Birla temple parking: INR 30/-</li>
<li>Lunch: INR 365/- (Kingfish meal, and Extra 3 Roti - Meal shared by 2 people)</li>
<li>Modak (sweet Dish): INR 40/- for 2</li>
<li>Expressway Toll: INR 173/-</li>
</ul>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Contact Details:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Hotel Coco Inn: +919167562668, +919167562468, +919969315657.</li>
<li>Mahesh Lunch Home, Nagaon: +919764557050, +918390382222.</li>
</ul>
<br />
I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">PriteshKulkarni</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
</div>
Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-64671889843824359912019-06-30T23:00:00.000+05:302019-08-17T23:53:53.873+05:30Hidden Gem from Ujjani Dam - Palasnath Temple<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Palasnath Temple was on my list from the last 3 years. Temple is located in the backwater of Ujjani Dam and people are only able to visit the temple in case of heavy drought. For rest of the time, it is submerged under the backwater of Ujjani Dam. Temple was accessible in the year 2016 but I missed to visit the temple. I was praying that temple should remain in my wishlist forever but unfortunately, 2019 drought opened the temple for Visit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiu0HSxxm-qhv0NMlWI4orOaMB1Nf2Ok1xxfbmzGkdkfOBH5AiRGFZ4zvZrZoZk48R9HhdCFtmLCt3BSIvx5Pq1en4kCtaQWQIc-fJ8pq_fr_5djC5v49skBMkzX-GAbISrlkwTO7QDwF5/s1600/IMG_8575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Palasnath Temple" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiu0HSxxm-qhv0NMlWI4orOaMB1Nf2Ok1xxfbmzGkdkfOBH5AiRGFZ4zvZrZoZk48R9HhdCFtmLCt3BSIvx5Pq1en4kCtaQWQIc-fJ8pq_fr_5djC5v49skBMkzX-GAbISrlkwTO7QDwF5/s640/IMG_8575.JPG" title="Palasnath Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palasnath Temple</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Ujjani Dam and Palasdev village:</span></u></b><br />
Ujjani Dam is built on Bhima river hence it is also known as Bhima Dam. Dam's construction began in the year 1969 and completed 1980. The storage capacity of the Dam is around 110 TCM. The reservoir created by the Dam is one of the largest backwaters in India. Backwater length is around 50km. Ujjani Dam backwater near Bhigwan is famous for migratory birds in winters.<br />
Temple was part of Palasdev Village which was located on the bank of Bhima river before Ujjani Dam. In ancient time, Village name was Ratnapur as per record and famous of Market at that time. The village consists of 5 temples and one of them was Palasnath temple. It was dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.<br />
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To Reach Temple from Pune is - Join Solapur Highway - Cross Bhigwan - After a few kms, you can see Palasdev village arch on left - Take a left in Village - Follow the road and park your vehicle on the backwater bed (Make sure that Land is completely dry) - Take a walk towards Temple.<br />
You may have to take a small boat ride to cross the backwater and Boats are available when the temple is accessible.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palasnath Temple</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">June 2019 Visit:</span></u></b><br />
We left home after breakfast with friends and their kids. We reached the Temple area after 2-3 hours of journey. We took a boat to cross the small backwater channel to reach Palasnath Temple. Temple was built in the year 1157 (<span style="font-size: x-small;">शके</span>1079 as per Marathi calendar) by Dandanayak Chandev. Temple was dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.<br />
Within the area, there are two temples, one for Lord Vishnu and one for Lord Shiva. Temple with Kalas (<span style="font-size: x-small;">कळस</span>) is of Lord Shiva. Both temples are West facing. You can see Lord Hanuman idol outside of the temple. Temple has Mandpam, GarbhGruh (Temple's inner room to keep lord idol) and 3 side entrance. As per the Temple pillar structure, Temple was built under Yadav empire era. Shivlinga idol from Temple was relocated in the village during Ujjani Dam construction. you can see the beautiful carving on the Temple walls.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDglSR422vdtz5t_tLwwGNgvUq6Vx7Z1lZD30UjK3WBqzUrgBq0kTLNuS-5N8609-_A3Tp1iCf_Ws4NyYZUoqCSc-V-l_ZMFCS9FEVo4P1o5RgtywmLlcbVtG6p9dNqH13vnaJb2nkfn3/s1600/IMG_8548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lord Hanuman at Palasnath Temple" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDglSR422vdtz5t_tLwwGNgvUq6Vx7Z1lZD30UjK3WBqzUrgBq0kTLNuS-5N8609-_A3Tp1iCf_Ws4NyYZUoqCSc-V-l_ZMFCS9FEVo4P1o5RgtywmLlcbVtG6p9dNqH13vnaJb2nkfn3/s640/IMG_8548.JPG" title="Lord Hanuman at Palasnath Temple" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord Hanuman at Palasnath Temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Temple...<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo clicked by Ameya Deshpande</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple Pillar...Photo clicked by Ameya Deshpande</td></tr>
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Few ruined stone sculpture can be seen in the temple area. They are mainly Nandi (Lord Shiva's Vahan), Veergal (<span style="font-size: x-small;">वीरगळ</span> Standing Stone dedicated to brave person from emperor), SatiShila (<span style="font-size: x-small;">सतीशिळा</span>), Dashaavtar, Surasundari (<span style="font-size: x-small;">सुरसुंदरी</span> meaning celestial beauty) etc. In temple sculptures, the Surasundari are often depicted as attendants of gods and goddesses. It also consists of Dharmshala (Rooms for stay purpose-built for devotees) in front of the temple.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzIJV4N0H8MibfL8QpIZKtunAUUPoLVVsUKeTfECqnzpOB2axqGwr1OMU3UJvtjTEf4Tqf_PR6l34HArItwpUHEPQY7G_DOV60jCaYFWBoag105GtGV2jh0qdjPPlVF3z4tm4S4gBwcXTo/s1600/IMG_8552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzIJV4N0H8MibfL8QpIZKtunAUUPoLVVsUKeTfECqnzpOB2axqGwr1OMU3UJvtjTEf4Tqf_PR6l34HArItwpUHEPQY7G_DOV60jCaYFWBoag105GtGV2jh0qdjPPlVF3z4tm4S4gBwcXTo/s400/IMG_8552.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nandi</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veergal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veergal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dashavatar stone strip</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ancient time Bhakta Niwas</td></tr>
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There is another temple just a couple of meters away from Palasnath Temple. This temple is known as Lord Ram temple. Some people believe it is another temple of Lord Vishnu but as the outer wall of the temple has different stories of Ramayana. You can see Ramayana stories such as the war between Vali and Sugriva, Lord Hanuman destroying Ashokavan, Goddess Sita in Ashokvan, monkey army carrying Stone for Ram-Setu, Ravan with 5 faces and Lord Ram with Laxman. There are other stone sculptures such as Surasundari (<span style="font-size: x-small;">सुरसुंदरी</span>), snake, Lord Vishnu in meditation and many more.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcUQ6NpAfvtJaEusEzq2iErIHG6qqRn2blH2gnB6k8kGHbZCHHuXu5HLRXPcZH4nQtnmYuyKwZHPQ2I6JvxyT9tAHsu-p4LD-aAK533yqUkhYqVWQtkwgNvJat0NPi5L7dAnS1u1geXUs/s1600/65745228_10156121288082120_3312821984663961600_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcUQ6NpAfvtJaEusEzq2iErIHG6qqRn2blH2gnB6k8kGHbZCHHuXu5HLRXPcZH4nQtnmYuyKwZHPQ2I6JvxyT9tAHsu-p4LD-aAK533yqUkhYqVWQtkwgNvJat0NPi5L7dAnS1u1geXUs/s640/65745228_10156121288082120_3312821984663961600_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Temple near Palasnath Temple...Photo clicked by Ameya Deshpande</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KEGpygCWXnEXN4VlY7WFjPsNkKnmdob__d3jJ4GvNtnAGeyBmK7CjgD7hyyYiRkugdz5w3nOoIg0mNOXdWk6WSpvurH7wzi_9x7CJ5B6My_dnj8_uDhZ1x5HVxVHTuLd5JLclJNqKHVB/s1600/65148613_10156121288012120_8468857239132700672_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lord Hanuman destroying Ashokavan at Palasnath Temple" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KEGpygCWXnEXN4VlY7WFjPsNkKnmdob__d3jJ4GvNtnAGeyBmK7CjgD7hyyYiRkugdz5w3nOoIg0mNOXdWk6WSpvurH7wzi_9x7CJ5B6My_dnj8_uDhZ1x5HVxVHTuLd5JLclJNqKHVB/s640/65148613_10156121288012120_8468857239132700672_n.jpg" title="Lord Hanuman destroying Ashokavan at Palasnath Temple" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Lord Hanuman destroying Ashokavan...Photo clicked by Ameya Deshpande</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCdqI_Fu4M1CbhEeakVaf5TfUEBDOWDXWlnRiCwq2jiaEO5eCbk3ffZEalrCRR_BLXBCjjIQBzpj9P2Dp5hxtSre0LDVAN1z6SkDIS6DG4ilu8XATAuytC7FaSKB8UsD8qKkX12jrO9Op/s1600/65206346_10156121287637120_1653310466178416640_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCdqI_Fu4M1CbhEeakVaf5TfUEBDOWDXWlnRiCwq2jiaEO5eCbk3ffZEalrCRR_BLXBCjjIQBzpj9P2Dp5hxtSre0LDVAN1z6SkDIS6DG4ilu8XATAuytC7FaSKB8UsD8qKkX12jrO9Op/s640/65206346_10156121287637120_1653310466178416640_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Surasundari...Photo clicked by Ameya Deshpande</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKufmfDPue37f2B7HnaoksNZ1hE8AljK7rfoaqURs1Yi3Mk6ujry8emCes0Basm3TrQIFlzY2OxawxRFrr4kCLwhGFRQMsRaHbBkkMDiNhkPBFbMzPE3WNWA8LW0kNGosQKOEb_LZRdf6K/s1600/65928555_10156121287287120_5961334724751261696_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKufmfDPue37f2B7HnaoksNZ1hE8AljK7rfoaqURs1Yi3Mk6ujry8emCes0Basm3TrQIFlzY2OxawxRFrr4kCLwhGFRQMsRaHbBkkMDiNhkPBFbMzPE3WNWA8LW0kNGosQKOEb_LZRdf6K/s640/65928555_10156121287287120_5961334724751261696_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">War Between Vali and Sugriva...Photo clicked by Ameya Deshpande</td></tr>
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Visiting early morning gives you the opportunity to spot some wetland birds like Greater Flamingo, Purple Swamphen, seagulls, Asian Openbill Stork, Painted Stork, Coot, Heron and many more. Best time to visit this place for bird watching in winter. You can <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2015/01/pune-bird-paradise-bhigwan-diksal-2015.html" target="_blank">check my Bhigwan Blogs here</a>.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">GPS Location of Palasnath Temple:</span></u></b> 18.246586, 74.882470<br />
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Pritesh Kulkarni </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Pune</b></span></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-1252251231101121232019-02-12T23:00:00.000+05:302019-07-31T00:03:09.869+05:30Netrani Island Scuba Dive and Dandeli<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Scuba diving at Netrani Island (near Murudeshwar, Karnataka) was in my wishlist. 2 years back, we were unable to visit the place as it was closed by the Navy. It is one of the best Dive sites in India.<br />
We decided to visit Dandeli during our return journey. Travelers for this trip were me and wife Renuka. Our friend Ameya joined us. This time, my i20 was not on the road and we drove Ameya's New SUV 500.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholelctHCChpAmHky7ldBnL3a8LW-ZtCjNrjMAQy2uiZeape2v38vMqNUF0bVHPR-TkBbylRoaMq0yrtYz5Qgz_-xAPp4chKQg8Znc_HENMcuHDRFktoTRhjOYMVuzYcdJInBvRNKz53sT/s1600/IMG_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="916" data-original-width="610" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholelctHCChpAmHky7ldBnL3a8LW-ZtCjNrjMAQy2uiZeape2v38vMqNUF0bVHPR-TkBbylRoaMq0yrtYz5Qgz_-xAPp4chKQg8Znc_HENMcuHDRFktoTRhjOYMVuzYcdJInBvRNKz53sT/s400/IMG_0045.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travelers</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>About Netrani Island and Dandeli</u></span></b><br />
Netrani Island (formally known as Pigeon Island) is small Island from the Arabian Sea. It is off the coast of Murudeshwar, Karnataka which is famous for Shiva temple. Island is 20km away from the coast and owned by Navy. It is used as target practice by the Indian Navy. Scuba diving was banned till 2017-18 due to a court case for disturbing ecological balance.<br />
Dandeli is a perfect destination in north Karnataka for all nature lovers. It is also famous for adventure activities on the River Kali such as white water river rafting. Dandeli is a paradise for bird watching activity and Anshi National park from Dandeli is the home for Tigers, leopards, black panthers, elephants, gaur, deers, antelopes, and bears. Sighting of the cat family in such dense forest is rare.<br />
Ganeshgudi is a small village near Dandeli and known for bird watching. The jungle is also home to reptiles and almost 300 varieties of birds.<br />
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<b>The route to reach Murudeshwar</b> (For Netrani Island) from Pune is Pune – join Mumbai Bangalore National highway – Kolhapur – Nipani – Belgaum – Take Right exit at Kittur (Road beside Hotel Gajaraj palace)- Alnavar- Yellapur - Kumta - Murudeshwar.<br />
<b>The route to reach Dandeli from Pune</b> is Pune – join Mumbai Bangalore National highway – Kolhapur – Nipani – Belgaum – Take exit for Belgaum – Khanapur – Londa – Ganeshgudi.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmdBQBbFt9uO_AIc-ObtvqHYsfBqrRZB2yBGCcDV-JApHxwhp2Dhggv19B6aJpXG0PUHmbouCX9ZWlQ5NLBE8WJ_O8Ev9M6JVTd1HdaynvVXcKXu52_zcfSGtFXS5Qn5U6M37umueU1ab/s1600/IMG_7485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmdBQBbFt9uO_AIc-ObtvqHYsfBqrRZB2yBGCcDV-JApHxwhp2Dhggv19B6aJpXG0PUHmbouCX9ZWlQ5NLBE8WJ_O8Ev9M6JVTd1HdaynvVXcKXu52_zcfSGtFXS5Qn5U6M37umueU1ab/s400/IMG_7485.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ameya's Car SUV 500...</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Day 1: 09th Feb 2019: Pune – Murudeshwar:</u></span></b><br />
Our journey began at 6 AM as we wanted to avoid the highway traffic and enjoy the cold freezing morning. The National Highway 48 was in excellent condition and well suited for a long drive. We had a short break before Khambataki for tea-Coffee and breakfast break at Karad.<br />
Our target to reach Murudeshwar by 8PM as our Dives were planned for Sunday 10th February. We took a lunch break at Kittur by 1PM and then left the national highway. The route from Kittur till Kumta was in excellent condition except for a few small rough patches. The route goes through dense forest. We were ahead of time so we decided to take a break at Kumta beach for Sunset view.<br />
We reached on the beach near Kumta by 6:30PM. We missed sunset but had a short break on the beach. After spending some time on the beach, we moved ahead for Murudeshwar.<br />
We reached Murudeshwar by 8PM and meet Ajay Patil (Owner of Dive Netrani and Dive Goa dive school). We know each other from 2013 when we did our Scuba Dive in Goa. Check my <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2013/02/road-trip-to-north-goa.html" target="_blank">Goa travel Blog here</a>. Our plan was of Single Dive which we extended up to 2 dives. We meet our Dive instructor Rupee, Ram and shaoumik. We left Dive Netrani office (in the campus of Hotel RNS residency) after completing formalities.<br />
We were too hungry so we had a meal in a nearby restaurant and then searched for a place to stay. We booked 2 AC rooms at Shree Vinayak residency whereas booked Naveen beach resort (located on the beach) for Sunday Night.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-iB1bTEYmbrgv04f2Qll79qDPE972Df-xRfkm3bJoP2pw-9oI2xLDi-F8g9Om1SrhhEFfThb0bk8dKfwI0R45yMVHzV4ETz3AcQaRK9GlqfV9_y8q3nuHdAmA3J0RH236bDG3ZnITN8n/s1600/IMG_7431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Temple at Murudeshwar" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-iB1bTEYmbrgv04f2Qll79qDPE972Df-xRfkm3bJoP2pw-9oI2xLDi-F8g9Om1SrhhEFfThb0bk8dKfwI0R45yMVHzV4ETz3AcQaRK9GlqfV9_y8q3nuHdAmA3J0RH236bDG3ZnITN8n/s640/IMG_7431.JPG" title="Temple at Murudeshwar" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple at Murudeshwar</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car Fuel: INR 5500/- for the entire trip</li>
<li>MH Toll-1: INR 90/-</li>
<li>Coffee: INR 70/- for 2 coffee at Kamat</li>
<li>MH Toll-2: INR 60/-</li>
<li>MH Toll-3: INR 75/-</li>
<li>Breakfast: INR 288/- (Misal-Pav, Idli Sambar, Rava Dosa, tea and mineral water)</li>
<li>MH Toll-4: INR 75/-</li>
<li>KA Toll-1: INR 25/-</li>
<li>KA Toll-2: INR 65/-</li>
<li>Lunch: INR 530/- (Butter Chicken, butter Roti, Dal khichadi, Masala Papad, Cold drinks)</li>
<li>Coffee: INR 30/- for 2 coffee</li>
<li>Dinner at Ratna Sagar restaurant: INR 377/- (3 South Indian meal, Cold drink, 2 Lemon Soda and 1 Water bottle)</li>
<li>Stay at Shree Vinayak Residency: INR 1300/- for 1 AC Room</li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Day 2: 10th Feb 2019: Scuba Dive at Netrani Island:</u></span></b><br />
We woke up by 7am and reached a Dive Netrani office before 8:30am. It is always advisable to have some light and less oily food before you dive, thus we had some south Indian breakfast before we move ahead for our Dive. We geared up and went on the beach. We were accompanied by other Divers who were doing their Open water Certifications. We all had walk till Murudeshwar beach and then we load Cylinders, Scuba gears and snacks onto our boat.<br />
Our 1-1.5hr journey began for Netrani Island. During the journey to Netrani Island, we had a good briefing on how the SCUBA equipment works, do’s & don’ts underwater, signs to make during Dive, etc. It was our 7th and 8th Dive in last 7 years hence we were aware of many do's and don't things. We were still attending the briefing carefully. We had new friends on the boat and some chat with Ajey. After an hour, we saw glimpses of Netrani island.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Set for Dive with Dive Netrani</td></tr>
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When we reached close to the Island, we got to know that the first 4 Advance certified divers will Dive for their Deep dive training which was up to 30 meters. It was our relaxation time and we were getting ready with wet suit n all. One cannot land or step up on Netrani Island as all the edges of Island are sharp and vertical. Also, Island belongs to Indian Navy hence roaming on Island is not allowed. We planned with 2 dives per head with max allowed depth up to 12 Meters. After waiting for some, an Advance diver came up. we learned many things from those certified divers.<br />
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We left the deep dive spot and started our journey towards an Island. The boat was anchored near Island and we equipped with Scuba gear. We are not PADI certified Scuba divers though, this was our 8th and 9th Scuba dive. Friend Ameya was the first person to start his 1st Dive. He also did a couple of Scuba Dives abroad. As we were aware of breathing technique, Renuka and then me entered the water without wasting any time for our first Dive. We went down slowly. Visibility inside water was fabulous. This time we were carrying our own underwater action camera to capture underwater beauty.<br />
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Marine life at Netrani was too impressive and we were not expecting such an amazing experience. We were underwater for around 40-50 Munites with a depth of around 8 to 9 Meters. We saw too many colorful fishes and small fish colonies. Eel fish, pufferfish, Boxfish were major the major attraction of our first dive. It was a wonderful experience to be a witness the underwater beauty.<br />
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We came up and board the boat. After finishing of first dive it was time for relaxation before we start our second dive. Ajay Told us that our second Dive (Not sure but dive site name is Nursery) will be more thrilling as you will be able to witness a huge fish colony around you. We had some food which was available on boat and power nap. We went together for the first dive through our underwater directions were different. For the second Dive, We went one by one. Renuka Went for her second Scuba Dive. I and Ameya entered in the sea for some swimming and snorkeling.<br />
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My second Dive was the last Dive of the day and I went with Divemaster Ram. I was underwater for around 45-55 min with recorded depth as 9.9 Meters. This was my one of the Best scuba dive I ever did across India. I saw Variety of fishes, Eels popping out from the rock, Huge Fish schools around us, beautiful coral and many more. The peak point of Dive was when we saw Bamboo Shark just 3-4 meters away from me. Shark was within Rocks and Ram spot that and then I saw. It was around 3-4 Feet long beautiful Fish. This was not the end of my dive as we saw Humphead Wrasse fish (also known as Napoleon fish) which was huge in size. Fish was swimming parrel to us for around 15-20 seconds before it disappears quickly. After Dive I got to know that Humphead Wrasse (Napoleon fish) is very shy and don't prefer swimming around or parrel to Divers. I don't want to come out of the water as I was swimming all together in a different and beautiful world.<br />
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After my Scuba Dive, We all left Netrani island. We all had Fruits which were arranged by Dive Netrani Team. After an hour we reached on Murudeshwar beach. We all help to shift Diving gears from boat to Dive Netrani Office. It was a fabulous day and satisfaction can be easily seen on our faces. If you're looking for Dive certification or Discover Scuba Dive then Netrani is one of the best sites to explore the beauty.<br />
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If you just want to try scuba dive for the first time then you can go for Discover Dive (at some places, it is called an Introductory Dive). You will not receive any certification and it is just to explore the underwater world with the help of Divemaster. Swimming is not mandatory for this dive. After Quick basic training session, you can dive into the water with Divemaster.<br />
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There is plenty of diving course available in PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors). you have to be first PADI open water Diver course. The course contains classroom theory, Pool training and then Open water dives. You should be medically fit, able to swim with any swimming style and above 10 years to be certified Scuba Divers. Detail information on PADI and PADI Scuba dive courses is available at Website www.padi.com<br />
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After Dive sessions, we did check-in in the Naveen Beach resort which is located on the beach. We went to the temple for darshan and Murudeshar market for some shopping. We all were tired hence preferred seafood dinner in the Hotel itself. It was quite a long day and we had rest after our Dinner.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-OvKobMBeKCdv9ucsdL-LGu1a8Zm46EGZ3Y8v3iUfIzOXcODRjgYhALmeYcx04mjnuOZrwTlSPGCeD9upR1knt11RxonstAugoqZ7Fb0V7KVxl3MVZVVEFaP-rYKgvClBW_bGA7OsVyu/s1600/IMG_7447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-OvKobMBeKCdv9ucsdL-LGu1a8Zm46EGZ3Y8v3iUfIzOXcODRjgYhALmeYcx04mjnuOZrwTlSPGCeD9upR1knt11RxonstAugoqZ7Fb0V7KVxl3MVZVVEFaP-rYKgvClBW_bGA7OsVyu/s640/IMG_7447.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shiva Statue at Murudeshwar</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbNg-vBzXux6ihMvj0pouS7bS2AjM72imDBWhm86Fs6_taT36bpdFtoXbMYVHNcIJJHFqWeVjdMqKg95ElRMXzyCrejlFhmfXIA9FYmqznpTmso_xwbc6l7ApKDppEtKzrw3fQ5WeYt6Qa/s1600/IMG_20190210_182452-EFFECTS+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sunset from Murudeshwar" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbNg-vBzXux6ihMvj0pouS7bS2AjM72imDBWhm86Fs6_taT36bpdFtoXbMYVHNcIJJHFqWeVjdMqKg95ElRMXzyCrejlFhmfXIA9FYmqznpTmso_xwbc6l7ApKDppEtKzrw3fQ5WeYt6Qa/s640/IMG_20190210_182452-EFFECTS+copy.jpg" title="Sunset from Murudeshwar" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Murudeshwar</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Scuba Dive cost: discover Scuba Dive INR 5500/- per Dive + INR 1500/- for next dive (Next dive should be on the same day/Same Trip)</li>
<li>South Indian Breakfast with filter coffee: INR 220/- for 3 person</li>
<li>RNS cafe: INR 751/- (chana Batura, cheese sandwich, paneer pakoda, Manchurian, 2 coffee and Juice)</li>
<li>Naveen beach resort stay: INR 2500/- per AC room per night with breakfast</li>
<li>Dinner at Naveen beach resort: INR 782/- (Kingfish curry with rice, lemon Rice, Masala Papad and 2 cold drinks)</li>
</ul>
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u><br /></u></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Day 3: 11th Feb 2019: Murudeshwar - Dandeli:</u></span></b><br />
we were ready by 7:30AM to visit the beach and the temple. After spending some time on the beach, we went to the temple for Darshan. Temple area consists of Murudeshwar Temple, Raja Gopura and Statue of great Lord Shiva. Temple is built on a hill which is surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea. The Lanka King Ravana worshipped Shiva with devotion for the Atma-Linga. Pleased by his prayers, Lord Shiva agreed to give him the boon on the condition that it should never be placed on the ground before he reaches Lanka. If the Atma-Linga was ever placed on the ground, it would be impossible to move it. The gods thought that with the Atma-Linga, Ravana may obtain immortality and cause destruction on earth. Lord Ganesh came up with a plan to confiscate the Atma-Linga from Ravana. As Ravana was nearing Gokarna, Lord Vishnu blotted out the sun to give the appearance of dusk. To perform his evening rituals, He wanted to handover Atma-Linga to someone. At this time, Lord Ganesh in the disguise of a Brahmin boy accosted him. Ravana requested him to hold the Atma-Linga until he performed his rituals, and asked him not to place it on the ground. Ganesh struck a deal with him saying that he would call Ravana thrice, and if Ravana did not return within that time, he would place the Atma-Linga on the ground.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0G_yXXxt5l9NPyr7x8Cv4WJcO9UrlD2HCejGdhFclDngsdyfJ1SbQl2uSvu4CvMXAoC7aoRHN_U9l9VzR8KRRF0_g1NRG3ay8aP1P-YjV4wHv0tCCoCrQVO85tKutN_tpm1IFQeNmogEk/s1600/IMG_7506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0G_yXXxt5l9NPyr7x8Cv4WJcO9UrlD2HCejGdhFclDngsdyfJ1SbQl2uSvu4CvMXAoC7aoRHN_U9l9VzR8KRRF0_g1NRG3ay8aP1P-YjV4wHv0tCCoCrQVO85tKutN_tpm1IFQeNmogEk/s640/IMG_7506.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Murudeshwar Temple area from Gopura</td></tr>
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Ravana returned to find that Ganesh had already placed the Atma-Linga on the ground. Vishnu then removed his illusion and it was daylight again. He realized that he had been tricked tried to uproot and destroy the linga. Due to the force exerted by Ravana, some pieces were scattered. He threw the cloth covering the Atma-Linga to a place called Mrideshwar which has been renamed to Murudeshwar.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gGluuwRuuBv2c3mV5DVyxWu8mHkuZyP7YHrzT_aP8IM5rDYQVepqOjbNKffCmXqjsnF9PlaYFEHNQw9Sp-36FDwf-dNZKW6TJfqmo5Ug0nOmEfBi0YTn7mmg0oEHmybEXDAbY19mS9DR/s1600/IMG_7567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gGluuwRuuBv2c3mV5DVyxWu8mHkuZyP7YHrzT_aP8IM5rDYQVepqOjbNKffCmXqjsnF9PlaYFEHNQw9Sp-36FDwf-dNZKW6TJfqmo5Ug0nOmEfBi0YTn7mmg0oEHmybEXDAbY19mS9DR/s640/IMG_7567.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganesha calling Ravana before placing Linga on Ground</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFMaGmkoNskdnZzOKE6rL0jd3QZLGNAPlaj5JuEUmaoS0p69Kmrb1pDt6PknMnd3Il0VmSrMrUjb-EHhxsX4XAO-Bq842Kmndmjt2mT_4j0AkrymFve8uEWSfBMGO20bAg1llXa2pi7Lp/s1600/IMG_20190211_080839+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFMaGmkoNskdnZzOKE6rL0jd3QZLGNAPlaj5JuEUmaoS0p69Kmrb1pDt6PknMnd3Il0VmSrMrUjb-EHhxsX4XAO-Bq842Kmndmjt2mT_4j0AkrymFve8uEWSfBMGO20bAg1llXa2pi7Lp/s640/IMG_20190211_080839+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganesha placed Atma-Linga on ground</td></tr>
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At the entrance of the temple, 20 storied Gopura (tower built at the entrance of the temple, especially in Southern India) is constructed. With the help of the elevator, you can reach on the 18th floor which offers a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea, Murudeshwar beach, village view and a beautiful view of the 123-feet idol of Lord Shiva. It was an amazing experience to view Murudeshwar from such height. Gopura has beautiful carving and two life-size elephant idols are placed at the entrance.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0cepZNYhfeld_o7Pe4htdYyNbfkg7SlD4aaKYaaVMKzzT-KhCJAdQ7uZCL1jlWagvyRkiyc7ZH4FgGENEIfvw7gZsA-SWGCfK6EUp0qcJ9r1oer4z31CzBxNwU6jerrnm57IJIC3xS-jL/s1600/IMG_20190211_072724+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0cepZNYhfeld_o7Pe4htdYyNbfkg7SlD4aaKYaaVMKzzT-KhCJAdQ7uZCL1jlWagvyRkiyc7ZH4FgGENEIfvw7gZsA-SWGCfK6EUp0qcJ9r1oer4z31CzBxNwU6jerrnm57IJIC3xS-jL/s640/IMG_20190211_072724+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning view of Murudeshwar Beach from Gopura</td></tr>
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After Gopura visit, we went inside the temple. Temple is small but maintained very well. There are many small temples. Photography in the main temple is not allowed. Real gold is used on the roof of all temples.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Gfrx-pml3cFPgHoYC5CPFnVfJP4ZPQfceFTFWgEypzKV55of9UaFhNKfyVdmIQkm7Gv2EbsTKnYg8qDxogUvws2J6rTdSKugnngk5kBwYxQPX57aurNrVzmFmagZZcLPqVGT2xvXySw9/s1600/IMG_7542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Gfrx-pml3cFPgHoYC5CPFnVfJP4ZPQfceFTFWgEypzKV55of9UaFhNKfyVdmIQkm7Gv2EbsTKnYg8qDxogUvws2J6rTdSKugnngk5kBwYxQPX57aurNrVzmFmagZZcLPqVGT2xvXySw9/s400/IMG_7542.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple view from Top</td></tr>
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Last attraction in Murudeshwar was the statue of Lord Shiva. The Shiva statue is the second highest statue in the world after Kailashnath Mahadev Statue situated in Sanga, Nepal. We saw a museum which is below the statue and has a series of different statues that tell you a story of Lord Shiva, Ravana, and Atma-Linga. There is a huge Nandi statue in front of Shiva. The statue of Ravana holding the linga is also at the front. Various sculptures depicting the incidents from mythological tales can be seen around.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjMMilxDFHxjOVo0b1Kgkk398pqShg6jGd4wew69GhABPeWIk1O31j8k-cKJTGThhME8ZoEdjkN19ImWp5qlrE7bT25lMAt7dOS_Xu_9WmjeZuEAauEUTUn3EIV0yY6l6Vj_ltxSXx7Ke/s1600/IMG_7574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjMMilxDFHxjOVo0b1Kgkk398pqShg6jGd4wew69GhABPeWIk1O31j8k-cKJTGThhME8ZoEdjkN19ImWp5qlrE7bT25lMAt7dOS_Xu_9WmjeZuEAauEUTUn3EIV0yY6l6Vj_ltxSXx7Ke/s640/IMG_7574.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shiva Statue</td></tr>
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We left Murudeshwar by 11AM and our next destination was Dandeli. We plan to visit Yana Caves on the route which is around 24-25km from Kumta. Yana is famous for the massive black, Crystalline, limestone rock. Yana also has Cave temple where swayambhu Linga has been formed. It is famous for two massive rock is known as the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and the Mohini Shikhara. There is around 1.5-2 km forest trail followed by around 300 steps to reach Cave temple. The trail goes through deep forest with a water stream on your right. The waterfall is another attraction at Yana during the Monsoon session.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjqaTxC03V71WjkLDuweE1frLv-KqgfQAjJ7pm7EZWOT1aPsM3uH6Fmp9gNiYgOMd6-h9TAsKY5gV3TNLkX4pqtM3HhUcZ5aDctLnLuVBH26rTn63sOdWs8QnFHZG77DdH_TrZsSXnz91G/s1600/IMG_20190211_121149+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjqaTxC03V71WjkLDuweE1frLv-KqgfQAjJ7pm7EZWOT1aPsM3uH6Fmp9gNiYgOMd6-h9TAsKY5gV3TNLkX4pqtM3HhUcZ5aDctLnLuVBH26rTn63sOdWs8QnFHZG77DdH_TrZsSXnz91G/s640/IMG_20190211_121149+copy.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yana Rocks</td></tr>
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After Quick Visit to Yana Cave, we started our journey towards Dandeli. We booked rooms at Old magazine house resort (a.k.a. OMH) from Ganeshgudi. This was our second visit to Ganeshgudi. Ganeshgudi is a small village near Dandeli and known for bird watching. The jungle is also home to reptiles and almost 300 varieties of birds. he Old Magazine House resort at Ganeshgudi is a property run by Jungle Lodges and Resorts. This place owed the ammunition storage during the construction of the Supa Dam project in the 60s. There are many birding spots in the resort; the best spot is beside the dormitory area where the birds enjoy a bath in the birdbath pots. The people at the lodge have put up a few birdbaths, a few perches around it and created a barrier a safe distance away for people to come and watch the bird activities. I do nor prefer sitting at one location to spot birds so we decided to visit nearby waterbody (Pumping station) and Timber market spot on next day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL2V1ZWDaClYrMr7ljoEh0Lwem3ZGtWEfFE2iOyWQCZCoVw1LrRLZxKy1dh09e9q_h94YWczwW9YAwz9NPW6Mjc3fdkbHOi3t1ZpYWalch3fyfYnH0DpPkIQp2V2lBefTrWcQgp7C0IG7H/s1600/IMG_7605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL2V1ZWDaClYrMr7ljoEh0Lwem3ZGtWEfFE2iOyWQCZCoVw1LrRLZxKy1dh09e9q_h94YWczwW9YAwz9NPW6Mjc3fdkbHOi3t1ZpYWalch3fyfYnH0DpPkIQp2V2lBefTrWcQgp7C0IG7H/s320/IMG_7605.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaf Bird</td></tr>
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<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iZXYWKw6t-c2PPawyqFPrS3x-MqH9LEz197a3PARTxzCyZbVQYrr3YUahTLMxkZqC6bO0sM-5tj5oziYqg9ImIdiSyqXJmcotYKOf7dU_nodjySn0gjWB0VPlHUNa820E2aQTxbSCA7E/s1600/IMG_7628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iZXYWKw6t-c2PPawyqFPrS3x-MqH9LEz197a3PARTxzCyZbVQYrr3YUahTLMxkZqC6bO0sM-5tj5oziYqg9ImIdiSyqXJmcotYKOf7dU_nodjySn0gjWB0VPlHUNa820E2aQTxbSCA7E/s320/IMG_7628.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paradise Flycatcher Female</td></tr>
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Somehow, we manage to reach before evening and quickly we visited OMH studio (Birdbath area name). after spending an hour, we left for Ganeshgudi Pumping station for Hornbill. here is small government pumping station on Kali River near OMH and only resort guests are allowed to visit that area with the resort staff/ Naturalist. One side of the river has hornbill’s nests whereas the other side consists of trees with small fruits which are their favorite food. We saw more than 10-15 Malabar Pied hornbills.<br />
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<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOSjlh2rVIiRbMv2i7v2clEixMI3loouPLtxNshrwypU_KhSJwd6WafehTnJS1lcJ_jwNBqS1AFz9fUew-vVFHfGyS_u2A1e3eGkLxAsH3wKoHhcqEmaw5HeQmOquoG7DUFwC-MbgETph/s1600/IMG_7672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOSjlh2rVIiRbMv2i7v2clEixMI3loouPLtxNshrwypU_KhSJwd6WafehTnJS1lcJ_jwNBqS1AFz9fUew-vVFHfGyS_u2A1e3eGkLxAsH3wKoHhcqEmaw5HeQmOquoG7DUFwC-MbgETph/s320/IMG_7672.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malabar Pied hornbill</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJN0J_1CpxFKJJc3lAfM9kBBwAklvwcb8h0aYbwq9WB7uAe379Uj7QzOdhNZ3uA4xylv0BGs4lpCXiutyJ1Ws9V5SERrh7XiZVXhIxpDE_ZyC2bgOP7Aw4viC9P8jl6tYUiasHX4mskVn/s1600/IMG_7692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1098" data-original-width="1600" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJN0J_1CpxFKJJc3lAfM9kBBwAklvwcb8h0aYbwq9WB7uAe379Uj7QzOdhNZ3uA4xylv0BGs4lpCXiutyJ1Ws9V5SERrh7XiZVXhIxpDE_ZyC2bgOP7Aw4viC9P8jl6tYUiasHX4mskVn/s320/IMG_7692.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Malabar Pied hornbill</span></td></tr>
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We went into the room and got ready for bonfire camp. A blazing bonfire came upon the grounds as we sipped hot soup and pakodas seated around it. We spent more than an hour discussing Wildlife, Photography and past experiences before we proceeded for dinner. After a delicious dinner, we took rest.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Parking at Yana caves: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Two Water bottles: INR 40/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Hotel Samrat, Sirsi: INR 225/- (2 South Indian meal, 1 mini-meal and, water bottle)</li>
<li>Stay at Old Magazine House with all meal and breakfast: INR 5818/- for 2 person room.</li>
</ul>
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u><br /></u></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Day 4: 12th Feb 2019: Dandeli to Pune:</u></span></b><br />
We woke by 6 AM and were ready for bird watching. We skipped sitting near Birdbath and decided to go Timber Depot. The place is around 10-11 km from Ganeshgudi and located in the Dandeli. A naturalist from Hotel joined us as a guide. As the name says, its Depot of Timber especially Teak wood and Rosewood and they claim as biggest in Aisa. Timber Depot has trails and quality trees which is now home of many bird species. Timber Depot is also Home of Hornbill which indicates the richness of the forest.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timber Depot at Dandeli</td></tr>
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There are lots of Fig trees in Timber depot which is a major attraction for Hornbills and other birds. we reach there at Sunrise time and soon we started spotting Hornbills. Though we have seen too many hornbills in our first visit (including Great Indian Hornbill) and at Ganeshgudi pumping station, so our focus was to spot other birds around Depot area. We saw Malabargiri, Leafbird, and Malabar Whistling Thrush in the first hours.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown-headed Barbet</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malabar Grey Hornbill</td></tr>
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We went deep inside and saw Racket-tail Drongo, minivet pair, Blue Cap rock thrush, Lesser Yellow-naped Woodpecker and Lesser Goldenback woodpecker. Some Birds like Tit, Sunbird, Wablers, plum-headed parakeet, etc were playing the role of Filler when we were moving from one spot to another.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Racket-tailed Drongo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golden back Woodpecker</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Minivet (Male)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Minivet (Female)</td></tr>
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We went a bit deep trail and saw Jungle owl. It was perfectly camouflaged with the tree. while coming back to Timber Depot, we saw Taiga Flycatcher and brown breasted flycatcher which was a jackpot for us. It was worth to visit Timber Depot rather than spending time in OMH studio. By 9-9.15 AM we left the place and reach OMH for breakfast.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTeAnsNc8D6a9xSJPkBvAdAonFhzHGZ1jHrbzPao04Z65oP9PJiU9ccpKM7MpAHqor9JeLdVd85HqXjXVrOJLsoRjupjmB2JEtxVIWzMXZ4Fdy7asqWhqP_XHD51tAfBhxVroNOgw9UA2/s1600/IMG_7921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1017" data-original-width="1600" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTeAnsNc8D6a9xSJPkBvAdAonFhzHGZ1jHrbzPao04Z65oP9PJiU9ccpKM7MpAHqor9JeLdVd85HqXjXVrOJLsoRjupjmB2JEtxVIWzMXZ4Fdy7asqWhqP_XHD51tAfBhxVroNOgw9UA2/s640/IMG_7921.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jungle Owl</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yCvt78B8WpjpSgHnCKAeMjSGFqCvVVqMuv-MHlKEvahltplkLRANAFH0ijTV-K4hkyxCBKITMj08fU6ZfXoJBn5ndz3KkPVAlSFjtynG_gCrWZpSI8SAcATFGNiKVSird0ooYbtGTg5S/s1600/IMG_7902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Taiga Flycatcher at Dandeli" border="0" data-original-height="1123" data-original-width="1600" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yCvt78B8WpjpSgHnCKAeMjSGFqCvVVqMuv-MHlKEvahltplkLRANAFH0ijTV-K4hkyxCBKITMj08fU6ZfXoJBn5ndz3KkPVAlSFjtynG_gCrWZpSI8SAcATFGNiKVSird0ooYbtGTg5S/s640/IMG_7902.JPG" title="Taiga Flycatcher at Dandeli" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taiga Flycatcher at Dandeli</td></tr>
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After breakfast, we were again busy with birding activity but now in the hotel area. Somehow there was less activity in the birdbath area so we started exploring the nearby area from the hotel. We saw a Malabar giant squirrel. Near the Fence area of the hotel, we saw a pair of Paradise flycatcher. Male Paradise flycatcher was young and we were clearly able to see his long tail with rufous color (Redies Brown) with some white color patches on it. Females are short-tailed with rufous wings and a blackhead whereas Males have elongated central tail in white color and blackhead.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLTIxdWMVD3uh0zCHyCpqH1bS-oqznI_BWUQ6qzi24n-GOzfFtt_L7l8PXkIGYR3afMykPLWYSlmGyXQCQvTYeG2fJInFuubb1vv3wpBu87I7PSCjsJJNsewI6FbN9dNcRGIoFHWKKQUc1/s1600/IMG_7966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="1600" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLTIxdWMVD3uh0zCHyCpqH1bS-oqznI_BWUQ6qzi24n-GOzfFtt_L7l8PXkIGYR3afMykPLWYSlmGyXQCQvTYeG2fJInFuubb1vv3wpBu87I7PSCjsJJNsewI6FbN9dNcRGIoFHWKKQUc1/s640/IMG_7966.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's My breakfast Time</td></tr>
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We had a lunch break by 1PM and again join the birding activity. We heard the call of Black Woodpecker. Hotel staff aware of where he will land as there is a nest nearby. We went and soon saw Black Woodpecker. It was quite far away from us so I barely managed to take record shot. Black Woodpecker is entirely black with Red-colored crown.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZcOFAi0HA1fAznLTUm4994fCIruc24IGZpaFAzOogfBG0aRbAfACKRler_HedYGa_0YycbaoQhu8SDmk2A__tCrzkxWt5LK-Gieq7kaUN40BOaBFz1k44HLW7346XoqJ2TbgMZjQiuVq/s1600/IMG_8054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZcOFAi0HA1fAznLTUm4994fCIruc24IGZpaFAzOogfBG0aRbAfACKRler_HedYGa_0YycbaoQhu8SDmk2A__tCrzkxWt5LK-Gieq7kaUN40BOaBFz1k44HLW7346XoqJ2TbgMZjQiuVq/s640/IMG_8054.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sub Adult Male Paradise Flycatcher</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Fxq74cJoOdpj5HuvV-AHEejem4Qd21a5J-1qnuGp84XMxC3Hfwe5_txJ_ohEh1-FSKnV1f5B52WgZsR-gtGbM3U2fiVQQpWJOAgOyYMFMjtlqQ2tXW4zwId8s_uC652m5fNdbQjeGjQy/s1600/IMG_8036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Fxq74cJoOdpj5HuvV-AHEejem4Qd21a5J-1qnuGp84XMxC3Hfwe5_txJ_ohEh1-FSKnV1f5B52WgZsR-gtGbM3U2fiVQQpWJOAgOyYMFMjtlqQ2tXW4zwId8s_uC652m5fNdbQjeGjQy/s640/IMG_8036.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malabar Gaint Squirrel </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Malabar Gaint Squirrel</span></td></tr>
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Our plan to leave for Pune was by 4.30 PM but as more activity began after 4 PM we decided to leave a bit late. Our evening session began with the entry of Emerald dove followed by Oriental White Eye, Flame Throated Bulbul, Monarch, Little Spider Hunter, White Rumped Munia, Shama, Crimson-backed Sunbird, and chestnut bee-eater. We were busy with the camera. Soon Racket-tail Drongo entered on perches. It is the largest bird from Drongo family. The tail with twirled rackets is distinctive and in flight, it can appear as if two large bees were chasing a blackbird. Bird has a wide range of loud calls that include perfect imitations of many other birds. Shreeram Kumar (Also a photographer and guest in OMH) recorded his call and activity on Camera. It was truly fun to observe the bird.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpXZi0I0A53t3ZEmTHt1G-NGm_xx1tuzfaTwe95v6oxhtv-JQRYt8ZSGt6hjdNklI3X92CTeJsHVCaxHHJD9t7TYIqjiwvVXlg6czHEZRZaAHPun6o2Xe7B6T5SqIkslX8I7-xwRGe3AN/s1600/IMG_8127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Black Woodpecker at Dandeli" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpXZi0I0A53t3ZEmTHt1G-NGm_xx1tuzfaTwe95v6oxhtv-JQRYt8ZSGt6hjdNklI3X92CTeJsHVCaxHHJD9t7TYIqjiwvVXlg6czHEZRZaAHPun6o2Xe7B6T5SqIkslX8I7-xwRGe3AN/s320/IMG_8127.JPG" title="Black Woodpecker at Dandeli" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Woodpecker at Dandeli</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KUQOF6lcIX7m0gyRbtZv0tBdNLNsmbQ6InOZM75y8MZKejyrt6ydzq9RFA5NN204q0oQ9UmIlzcpDlKS9YcfBx5_UDskFe3LySNh8NeQHvwtaRwIofjCo16D43um2pgBwe5JMM7-nu9S/s1600/IMG_8202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Blue capped Rock Thrush at Dandeli" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KUQOF6lcIX7m0gyRbtZv0tBdNLNsmbQ6InOZM75y8MZKejyrt6ydzq9RFA5NN204q0oQ9UmIlzcpDlKS9YcfBx5_UDskFe3LySNh8NeQHvwtaRwIofjCo16D43um2pgBwe5JMM7-nu9S/s320/IMG_8202.JPG" title="Blue capped Rock Thrush at Dandeli" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue-capped Rock Thrush</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oriental White-Eye</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emerald Dove</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plum-headed Parakeet</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a Bath Time</td></tr>
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By 5PM, I packed my Camera and Male paradise Flycatcher arrived on perch. We witness the beauty and left for Pune. We reached home at midnight. It was truly a stress-relieving trip.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Racket-tail Drongo</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>KA Toll-1: INR 90/-</li>
<li>KA Toll-2: INR 65/-</li>
<li>KA Toll-3: INR 25/-</li>
<li>Hotel Kaveri: INR 70/- for tea-Coffee</li>
<li>Dinner at Aaroma restaurant: INR 465/- (veg dish, Roti, Masala Papad, Curd rice, water bottles and, cold drink)</li>
<li>MH Toll-1: INR 75/-</li>
<li>MH Toll-2: INR 75/-</li>
<li>MH Toll-3: INR 60/-</li>
<li>MH Toll-4: INR 90/-</li>
</ul>
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<u style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>Contact Numbers for Reference:</b></u><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>The Old magazine house: Mohan Babu 08383256301, 09448133240. Website: http://www.junglelodges.com/old-magazine-house</li>
<li>Scuba Diving: Dive Goa (Ashwini: 09325030110; Ajay: 093250300109) Website: <a href="https://divegoa.com/">https://divegoa.com/</a> OR <a href="https://divenetrani.com/">https://divenetrani.com/</a></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>GPS Locations:</u></span></b><br />
Murudeshwar: 14.095134, 74.485558<br />
Netrani Island: 14.014424, 74.326859<br />
Yana Caves: 14.590087, 74.566232<br />
Old magazine house, Ganeshgudi: 15.291701, 74.520990<br />
Timber Depot, Dandeli: 15.242992, 74.621711<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi49CE934GNQXCdZuAMEI0vJpKQ7UZk601QgJfHX_4wpb183q_OAyQRb1_77_xjiphReJBy53R7LFF67O-lWnv4RSwCamoQ2J0J4kpQYJw8-uZuNsVKcz9rrDto1YExgB-l_LGSn6JuJOff/s1600/Indian+Paradise+Flycatcher.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1087" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi49CE934GNQXCdZuAMEI0vJpKQ7UZk601QgJfHX_4wpb183q_OAyQRb1_77_xjiphReJBy53R7LFF67O-lWnv4RSwCamoQ2J0J4kpQYJw8-uZuNsVKcz9rrDto1YExgB-l_LGSn6JuJOff/s400/Indian+Paradise+Flycatcher.png" width="271" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indian Paradise Flycatcher Male</td></tr>
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
</div>
Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-91161995940034078452018-12-23T23:00:00.000+05:302019-03-11T00:19:48.402+05:30Trip to Malgund, Gapatipule and Scuba at Kajirbhati beach<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Malgund beach was on my list for a long time. I visited Malgund 2 years back but it was just for one evening. It was 4 days planned year-end trip before Christmas. Our destinations for the coastal line were Malgund, Ganapatipule, Kajirbhati, Aare-Ware, Ratnagiri and nearby offbeat beaches.<br />
Travelers for this trip were I and Renuka.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1FnypD1b8UWqjPcbnSaI_TSiTzscvtsywAT25K7iKMjcNrGQj0LwN11HtX4yc-I19qE50ZhT8J88Zpdd5jeSnciwvLNLBsPoCFmAbpr_S2OYr3oBwessxnzorSyd2IFl0XO00ipMwXn_/s1600/We.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1FnypD1b8UWqjPcbnSaI_TSiTzscvtsywAT25K7iKMjcNrGQj0LwN11HtX4yc-I19qE50ZhT8J88Zpdd5jeSnciwvLNLBsPoCFmAbpr_S2OYr3oBwessxnzorSyd2IFl0XO00ipMwXn_/s640/We.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We after our Scuba Dive</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Ratnagiri, Malgund and surrounding places:</span></u></b><br />
Ratnagiri city is a port city on Arabian Sea coast of Maharashtra in India. It is a main city from the Konkan region and famous for its Alphonso Mangoes, Birthplace of “Lokmanaya” Bal Gangadhar Tilak, prime leader of India’s freedom movement and Shivaji’s Fort. There are many tourist points in Ratnagiri district that are blessed with untouched and beautiful beaches.<br />
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On the northern side of Ratnagiri, you can visit twin beaches called Aarey - Warey and also the Malgund beach. Malgund is known as the birthplace of the Marathi poet Keshavasuta, born in 1866.<br />
Ganapatipule is a holy destination which is just 25 km from Ratnagiri city.<br />
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The route to reach Malgund from Pune is –<br />
Take National highway 48 (Old Number was NH4) – Drive till Karad city on highway – Cross Karad and drive for few km – after Karad, look for the first flyover on the highway – Do not take flyover route – Take right below the flyover – Drive on State highway 144 – Malkapur – Amba – Sakharpa – join on Mumbai Goa highway – Drive towards Mumbai for few km – Take left for Ratnagiri – Ratnagiri - Ganapatipule - Malgund.<br />
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Another way to reach Malgund is Pune - National highway 48 (Old number was NH4) - Umbraj - take right turn at Umbraj – Paatan village – Kumbharali ghat – Koyananagar – Chipalun – Take a left on National Highway 66 (Old number was NH17) - Take right at Navadi - Chafe - Ganapatipule - Malgund. This route is not in good condition (Dec 2018) due to road widening.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 1: 20nd Dec 2018 – Pune - Ganapatipule - Malgund:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up early morning and left home at 6 AM. We wanted to avoid highway traffic and enjoy the morning breeze. After Satara, we took a pit stop for tea and coffee. We decided to go by the Kumbharali ghat as we were not aware of road condition. We wanted to have breakfast in Chipalun but because of the road condition, we had breakfast before Kumbharali ghat. Because of the nonstop drive after breakfast, we could reach our destination before 2 PM. Our first destination was Ganapatipule.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXsUwprqT16tZGIXce5sfUoyJuSPQFIflzqpOYaMF2_8flIcMvJhQgZlhW34jfL7E0oT4TZTuZku4uF5AcsupTzlCuiRF8sNoJJB3qhraDXYWc47KTgwh8o3QHZ1YI25ek0QPLtMuAs3o/s1600/Ganapatipule.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXsUwprqT16tZGIXce5sfUoyJuSPQFIflzqpOYaMF2_8flIcMvJhQgZlhW34jfL7E0oT4TZTuZku4uF5AcsupTzlCuiRF8sNoJJB3qhraDXYWc47KTgwh8o3QHZ1YI25ek0QPLtMuAs3o/s640/Ganapatipule.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord Ganesh's Vahan mouse</td></tr>
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Due to Weekday and afternoon time, there was no rush at all and we took Ganesh Darshan comfortably. we were in front of Ganesh Idol for more than 10 min whereas, on weekends/peak time, you hardly get 5-6 seconds for darshan. Ganesh Idol from the temple is Swayambhu (means self-originated) ganGaneshol. According to locals, the Hindu god, Ganapati, taking umbrage by a remark made by a native lady, moved to Pulé (a few km ahead of the town) from his original abode of GaneshGulé. Thus the region was named Ganpati-pulé. The temple is at the base of a hill and very close to the sea. The God is considered to be the Paschim Dwar-devta (Western Sentinel God of India), and those who visit Ganapatipule, make it a point to pay their respects to this deity. We had Mahaprasad as Khichadi and Laddu (Sweet) in the temple.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29cTxKgoXpfhKY9iW2k-gcs_DsYTAeMjMzaM4eXQCIz1m2RXKW7djLH6isUinTW9ZOXJuGULeqNoP2DYFa5pxnHgUHjmdXfIjmRIyqXFuzGDLQ2WrrjgsWh4rnT3xNy5f1rzXCKeSh3xx/s1600/IMG_6860.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ganapatipule Ganesh Temple" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29cTxKgoXpfhKY9iW2k-gcs_DsYTAeMjMzaM4eXQCIz1m2RXKW7djLH6isUinTW9ZOXJuGULeqNoP2DYFa5pxnHgUHjmdXfIjmRIyqXFuzGDLQ2WrrjgsWh4rnT3xNy5f1rzXCKeSh3xx/s640/IMG_6860.JPG" title="Ganapatipule Ganesh Temple" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganapatipule Ganesh Temple</td></tr>
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Our next destination was Malgund which is just 3km away from Ganapatipule. We haven't booked any hotel room so we visited a couple of hotels. As per the budget and requirement, we settled down at "Sagar Darshan beach resort". He offered us a good discount for 2-night stay due to Weekdays through the third (Saturday) night was already sold out. we like the place as it is located on the beach. Each room is a separate small cottage with a sunset view from the room. The hotel area was well maintained with Konkani touch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh95biDQIMw0ZJcvKTfu-B9mFiBmgW-qxGuVSCLiG44JT04FrpFeGTBUYpH1ZBU9iKGErCv738dnD4kJisJSTu62huTYLZccPrH_3b1c7c5FjuxLUaTeZePuhsrn1frVaii9n2beHRFIJV1/s1600/IMG_20181221_104432%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sagar Darshan beach resort, Malgund" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh95biDQIMw0ZJcvKTfu-B9mFiBmgW-qxGuVSCLiG44JT04FrpFeGTBUYpH1ZBU9iKGErCv738dnD4kJisJSTu62huTYLZccPrH_3b1c7c5FjuxLUaTeZePuhsrn1frVaii9n2beHRFIJV1/s640/IMG_20181221_104432%257E2.jpg" title="Sagar Darshan beach resort, Malgund" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Sagar Darshan beach resort</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgJudE-8aBbggT2V1ATuJikYKVCAeFWVZE34YIP5vo0v5L6dUU_gWford4lA2ZEUqsWrYF8t2beUDhliBk_n-xs2RYYDYu5Fqqrfmai6ybJNzO4bGd7Nn0XltEgAl9907JDNc3sdhIepK/s1600/IMG_20181220_154949.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgJudE-8aBbggT2V1ATuJikYKVCAeFWVZE34YIP5vo0v5L6dUU_gWford4lA2ZEUqsWrYF8t2beUDhliBk_n-xs2RYYDYu5Fqqrfmai6ybJNzO4bGd7Nn0XltEgAl9907JDNc3sdhIepK/s640/IMG_20181220_154949.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sagar Darshan beach resort</td></tr>
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We had some rest and visit the Malgund beach for sunset. This place is on the north end of Malgund beach hence hardly any tourist visit this side. We had a short walk on the beach and then settled down for sunset. Watching a sunset from the beach is our favorite activity. After a long time, we saw Sun touching the sea horizon spreading beautiful red color in the sky. We witnessed a beautiful sunset and captured the moments.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibPXOG-5e9xGKHYjjeGk9OkvlvXjKOJ4PiY3Yroe_JTQw9kutJjesmdktZzdWuhFgMwD1WvJ3G5fwnjACM7R7yEmwGtR1YjTA1iIHpktvI-ZyQZwNWaNUYQDFM1XnhA2Q7OqTNXyRxk9Q/s1600/IMG_6873.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibPXOG-5e9xGKHYjjeGk9OkvlvXjKOJ4PiY3Yroe_JTQw9kutJjesmdktZzdWuhFgMwD1WvJ3G5fwnjACM7R7yEmwGtR1YjTA1iIHpktvI-ZyQZwNWaNUYQDFM1XnhA2Q7OqTNXyRxk9Q/s640/IMG_6873.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malgund Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMumsC0pBzamzvwvW-tPFjslh7yydKjUFFyB4XPlwKp-Juq9w0gJZEHJ3gOyhLVmquU5xYxLmDhqGCHY6TFvm3TwIZ1wo51EbuNMFBS2Po4-6bHWtBh81a1PJAaFLOUWhlUxuG_9jNd5l/s1600/IMG_6902.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMumsC0pBzamzvwvW-tPFjslh7yydKjUFFyB4XPlwKp-Juq9w0gJZEHJ3gOyhLVmquU5xYxLmDhqGCHY6TFvm3TwIZ1wo51EbuNMFBS2Po4-6bHWtBh81a1PJAaFLOUWhlUxuG_9jNd5l/s640/IMG_6902.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at Malgund beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEd788xrodT9evemP7srV6DILtxb-gH7bknAst9lhHmuaHS6tuuVjomqQJCR5u54qSCE_judYe6FRuH6TdHi6c0lYxluUXzDc_ziaqyLzEjyQJzm-gDuV2CBt8FPP26oeBZpNtnTtLsmCD/s1600/IMG_6905.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sunset from Malgund Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEd788xrodT9evemP7srV6DILtxb-gH7bknAst9lhHmuaHS6tuuVjomqQJCR5u54qSCE_judYe6FRuH6TdHi6c0lYxluUXzDc_ziaqyLzEjyQJzm-gDuV2CBt8FPP26oeBZpNtnTtLsmCD/s640/IMG_6905.JPG" title="Sunset from Malgund Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Malgund Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We return to the hotel and ordered a meal. Owner set up a campfire for us as it was cold. Small dining huts are set up close to the beach. Food taste was average but having dinner with campfire and sea wave music made our day.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiypfUYEtZHD7pHwWMSALPnjmDrLTUHXsJ9kEnI1yx4DSt_n-leW7W7XP6ngWixjd-S5EakhQz2jdIj2GRR5l-VuvygP92RsOvcPojh-Q9YsfRx9D5Cm__VnRNvOIKqO11T9VSmW28kj6Eu/s1600/IMG_6915.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiypfUYEtZHD7pHwWMSALPnjmDrLTUHXsJ9kEnI1yx4DSt_n-leW7W7XP6ngWixjd-S5EakhQz2jdIj2GRR5l-VuvygP92RsOvcPojh-Q9YsfRx9D5Cm__VnRNvOIKqO11T9VSmW28kj6Eu/s640/IMG_6915.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun touching sea horizon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Petrol: INR 3000/-</li>
<li>Toll 1: INR 90/-</li>
<li>Toll 2: INR 60/-</li>
<li>Breakfast: INR 85/-</li>
<li>Ganapatipule Entry: INR 10/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Coconut water: INR 80/- for 2</li>
<li>Stay at Sagar Darshan resort: INR 3000/- for 2 night</li>
<li>Bread butter toast at the hotel: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Dinner at Hotel: INR 370/- (Starter, Kaju Masala, 4 chapatis):</li>
<li>Coconut water: INR 60 for 2</li>
<li>3 water bottles: INR 60</li>
</ul>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span></u></b>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 2: 21st Dec 2018 – Malgund:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up at 6AM and left the hotel by 7AM to explore some untouched beach on the north side of Malgund. The road till Jaigad is parallel to the shore which makes you feel fresh. Every section offers you a view of the upcoming beach on the same route. As you move towards the Jaigad side, Road becomes smooth and wide.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYU8vJ7gW4OrZapZ0K8c-ygvpTe5MClowQ75icKY4X0aq8UeaG16kF8_tAs_e25LBtodi0nWtllxqoTjF-OZuB6xmP5fqmDpK0zNrASv1ntB77WqV4P5WgnHb4kbGNU_5KDTLgwXX4GFDb/s1600/IMG_6981.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYU8vJ7gW4OrZapZ0K8c-ygvpTe5MClowQ75icKY4X0aq8UeaG16kF8_tAs_e25LBtodi0nWtllxqoTjF-OZuB6xmP5fqmDpK0zNrASv1ntB77WqV4P5WgnHb4kbGNU_5KDTLgwXX4GFDb/s640/IMG_6981.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coastal Village near Malgund</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The first beach after Malgund was Waravade. The beach was a bit clean with off white color sand. We spend some time on the beach and when we were about to leave, we saw some activity in the sea. Soon we got to know that it was a group of Dolphin fish. Group consists of around 15 to 20 dolphins and they were Swiming very close to the beach. It was a memorable time to watch these beautiful fishes closely from the beach. I was not carrying my telephoto lens, I missed an opportunity to click the photographs.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFAaGpJXs8comC4VThHW3JlZLHU6c5dsmhMg84D_J5TVY1mFjRy5O-8KV1_zD0tqo1duq2pq9t4V8SlXOUCvlOAqUWK9vX7rTUu8kFAbQEmesx-bui-K0XN1_b8YDcneK4qBPIoy6WSQ05/s1600/IMG_6996.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Waravade beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFAaGpJXs8comC4VThHW3JlZLHU6c5dsmhMg84D_J5TVY1mFjRy5O-8KV1_zD0tqo1duq2pq9t4V8SlXOUCvlOAqUWK9vX7rTUu8kFAbQEmesx-bui-K0XN1_b8YDcneK4qBPIoy6WSQ05/s640/IMG_6996.JPG" title="Waravade beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waravade beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After a wonderful start, we went ahead for our next beach. Next beach was near Undi Village. When we reach, we got to know that there is no access road for the beach and the entire hill belongs to Jindal company for their staff house. We move ahead in search of the next beach. we reach at Kachare Village while searching route for the beach. Beach is known by name Kachare beach. The road to the beach is very narrow and hardly any tourist visit the place. The beach is divided into 3 parts due to the rocks formation. You can walk to the next section of the beach through the rocks while watching sea waves splashing water during high tide. Kachare beach is clean, soft sand and curved in the shape. The beach is clean as it is totally untouched.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4ixlY7Qy0NQo1_VGBfAqhnTe7t405rejSQmVu2z5M9coGwuLGZDbRNX6UJaTc3E2MDPiJICZ83KPAGvpehld7zysCael_Ep7E35o-ZrJs2wXyg9m9eMY8mZzt03r4MIIGjCIcmDFrshW/s1600/IMG_6731.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kachare beach" border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1600" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4ixlY7Qy0NQo1_VGBfAqhnTe7t405rejSQmVu2z5M9coGwuLGZDbRNX6UJaTc3E2MDPiJICZ83KPAGvpehld7zysCael_Ep7E35o-ZrJs2wXyg9m9eMY8mZzt03r4MIIGjCIcmDFrshW/s640/IMG_6731.JPG" title="Kachare beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kachare Beach (Section one at the rightmost hill, Section 2 below hill 2 and section 3 left)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqESWfe0rH5mck1yFSY5MN2rCFyFzkZ21q8ONmb7DNcJl5e3IA-yv2-UWDpayVYF0vilx-eMyQRo4nSU7-TxWmcbo0AUaQzVgLd6b1OiRzIjz83jcB1ipgNbBy082X6Jzuvil90H6RLUeZ/s1600/IMG_7003.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqESWfe0rH5mck1yFSY5MN2rCFyFzkZ21q8ONmb7DNcJl5e3IA-yv2-UWDpayVYF0vilx-eMyQRo4nSU7-TxWmcbo0AUaQzVgLd6b1OiRzIjz83jcB1ipgNbBy082X6Jzuvil90H6RLUeZ/s640/IMG_7003.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kachare beach (Section 1)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLup2_yw5TYwd3n-h45uvau7FW-WB9OP1fJhrzxC-KnqUnksz-PDeVMkIZptIXMfiXUoIxbls569NRqix6_h08F9gbE1WP1y8Lww1n8F-Zueb6eR0STaQbopFEGaVFrTx-jTo3NDtLcfMy/s1600/IMG_7018.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLup2_yw5TYwd3n-h45uvau7FW-WB9OP1fJhrzxC-KnqUnksz-PDeVMkIZptIXMfiXUoIxbls569NRqix6_h08F9gbE1WP1y8Lww1n8F-Zueb6eR0STaQbopFEGaVFrTx-jTo3NDtLcfMy/s640/IMG_7018.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kachare beach (click from the second part of the beach)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We enjoyed the morning time on the beach and had a walk till the third section/beach. We took a lot of photos before we came back. We loved this beach so much as it was difficult for us to leave. Konkan always offers you offbeat places and It's our responsibility to keep such beaches clean and safe for our future generations.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFclcVm3Rt8WpK2DdPnZ2UwpH57Rexv9CH_rok8fjLxzv96rw5NqWnZu5CoXlGTs7sgDM-3fKDO__p2fGCGzOYk1pqbJR35fvwYG0itmLjnE-nfp5x8kwSh9ZUmSQn8J4E-AZYd8UmNcJN/s1600/IMG_7024.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kachare beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFclcVm3Rt8WpK2DdPnZ2UwpH57Rexv9CH_rok8fjLxzv96rw5NqWnZu5CoXlGTs7sgDM-3fKDO__p2fGCGzOYk1pqbJR35fvwYG0itmLjnE-nfp5x8kwSh9ZUmSQn8J4E-AZYd8UmNcJN/s640/IMG_7024.JPG" title="Kachare beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kachare beach (third part of the beach)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We left this beautiful place. Our next destination was Nandivade beach. Nandivade village has Hanuman Temple and clean beach. The village gives you a typically Konkani feel. The beach was clean and very well maintained by the villagers. Homestay is available in the village as well. We spend just 30 min on the beach and started our return journey to Malgund.<br />
We visited Jaigad fort in the past hence we skip the visit. You can read my <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2014/10/trip-to-beauty-of-konkan-ratnagiri.html" target="_blank">Blog for Jaigad</a> fort details here<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbE4xP-VB6PUlCKiffhtQfZFg6bCnPHUXdtv5z12FAzNxR6V3KN4p5OCgzs_mGYVgZ1cIhZzmSn_HQ1NYf2Z4zSf_LIzOBOQfPJNXIrrI219G837-cB2YnWQfPTpMrHO3E2IHvtJwzXl6/s1600/IMG_7036.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nandivade beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbE4xP-VB6PUlCKiffhtQfZFg6bCnPHUXdtv5z12FAzNxR6V3KN4p5OCgzs_mGYVgZ1cIhZzmSn_HQ1NYf2Z4zSf_LIzOBOQfPJNXIrrI219G837-cB2YnWQfPTpMrHO3E2IHvtJwzXl6/s640/IMG_7036.JPG" title="Nandivade beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nandivade beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We came back to the hotel by 10-10.30AM and had a tasty breakfast. After spending some time in the hotel area, we freshen up and left for some local sightseen. Malgund is known as the birthplace of the Marathi poet Keshavasut, born in 1866. His full name is Krishnaji Keshav Damle and he wrote poetry under the pen name Keshavsut. He was born in the year 1866 October 7. He died in the year 1905 and in the span of 39 years, we wrote 132 poetry. Poem Tutari was a famous poem in Marathi wrote by Keshavsut which was called to fight for independence. The poem inspired many Indians to fight to overthrow the British occupation.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIc-XZsXrb7ZKj0dZWzxFFzwPZ4yhB4-V_DkvwmqhoBgq5hHzPPXq-WgKGRc0wesSihldt6Ak_QPlVump_sGNORDKDsZNp1bizeZsX4UV2YBoxc7M-JAxf7i4t62ECCExaxrmkBq0es7ik/s1600/IMG_7042.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Birthplace of poet Keshavsut" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIc-XZsXrb7ZKj0dZWzxFFzwPZ4yhB4-V_DkvwmqhoBgq5hHzPPXq-WgKGRc0wesSihldt6Ak_QPlVump_sGNORDKDsZNp1bizeZsX4UV2YBoxc7M-JAxf7i4t62ECCExaxrmkBq0es7ik/s640/IMG_7042.JPG" title="Birthplace of poet Keshavsut" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthplace of poet Keshavsut</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Keshavsut's house is now converted into Mesume and library. House is a typical old Konkani house. You can read his famous poem written on Stone and places behind the house. Library and information of famous Marathi poet are also available in the museum area. It's a gold mine for Marathi people who have interest in Marathi literature. Afternoon time is the best time to visit this place. After this place, we visited Ram Temple which is a 1000-year-old temple.<br />
It was 2 PM on the clock and we were hungry. We went to Ganapatipule for lunch as there are plenty of options available for veg and non-veg meal. After lunch, we returned to the hotel for some rest. We visited Malgund beach again for sunset. We had a long walk on the beach. We got to know about Yoga fame Holiness Shree Mataji Nirmala Devi. Last week of December is celebrated as the week of Nirmala Devi in Malgund. Her followers from India and around the world (Yes, We saw many non-Indians in Malgund) visit Malgund for Yoga, Prayers, and celebration. This was the reason for not getting a room in Malgund from 23 December onwards till year end. If you're looking for a holiday near Malgund then better to avoid last week of December month. We planned to check a couple of hotels near Kajirbhati beach for our Saturday night stay. we got to know from locals that Shree Nirmala Devi's followers do not prefer to stay outside Malgund so it is easy to find the hotel from Ganapatipule to Ratnagiri area.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnPK7hoTMJcHffMTYSvB6ljsKbZ0zXztZxqmdq5-joebgnItwhozleah-hh_KihA3DxKabBIx2HIStbP5aOdzZf0GKoN9NTFbU0HO1_RARRwXn-76pK-RZ02BeuWgSwG5ZnrliXmfxDkS/s1600/IMG_7054.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnPK7hoTMJcHffMTYSvB6ljsKbZ0zXztZxqmdq5-joebgnItwhozleah-hh_KihA3DxKabBIx2HIStbP5aOdzZf0GKoN9NTFbU0HO1_RARRwXn-76pK-RZ02BeuWgSwG5ZnrliXmfxDkS/s640/IMG_7054.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Many followers were on the beach for some Yoga activity, an area in front of our resort was empty. We saw Sunset spreading colors in the sky from Malgund beach. It was a calm and peaceful evening. we decided to visit Nakshatra restaurant from Bhandarpule for dinner. The restaurant is owned by Mithil Pitre and we know each other coz of travel. The ambiance of Nakshatra resort and restaurant is good and we enjoyed the dinner with tasty Modak.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOh-odJ8Ml_TmBxzZEq3UJUVE0fVdDFHbLzAIgUM95ZGl4UaVTjDa2rJXhMjGQpfqhFhM2uZWwj2MfRxI37ekazCxpOQBpWJ4jVBeAmZiRdXyPzuP_H_afNsBkh7ptSIqgIkV3difL9qn/s1600/IMG_7057.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOh-odJ8Ml_TmBxzZEq3UJUVE0fVdDFHbLzAIgUM95ZGl4UaVTjDa2rJXhMjGQpfqhFhM2uZWwj2MfRxI37ekazCxpOQBpWJ4jVBeAmZiRdXyPzuP_H_afNsBkh7ptSIqgIkV3difL9qn/s400/IMG_7057.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at Malgund</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Breakfast (2 Omelet, bread Butter toast, coffee): INR 165/-</li>
<li>Entry at Keshav Sut home: INR 20/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Lunch: INR 450/- (Chicken Wade meal, began Masala, bhakari, Cold drink, water)</li>
<li>Dinner: INR 782/- (Starter, Amrakhand-Puri, Bengal Masala, Kokani Wade and Juice)</li>
</ul>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span></u></b> <b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 3: 22nd Dec 2018 – Malgund - Ratnagiri - Kajirbhati:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up by 7AM and went on the beach for running. We spend morning time on the beach and came back for breakfast. We check out the hotel by 11AM and went to Ratnagiri for sightseen as planned. On the way to Ratnagiri, We took a pit stop at Aare and Ware beach. The road journey from Ganapatipule to Ratnagiri offers you beautiful scenery as most of the time the road is parallel to the seashore. The road has several curves and hairpin bends that give you a wonderful view of photography. The road travels past a high cliff, below which the sea waves ferociously lap without a pause. In fact, the road hugs the seashore for a length of some 7 - 8 Km. It becomes difficult for nature lovers to go ahead without capturing the beauty in the camera. We took many pit stops for photography. This route is ideal for an aerial view of the beaches.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW3Z55gtDsgex6jExceKrQUbxDUQm6K_NMtyx7Z5Aq7Td4Jkd7yN13p6TJw6usPG65Djda582pGe9emtw4AiOP-2JHdm_NC93TZkSkkMAxlmKmSpEk9tW1f4LyK0imUj_AIupKkcnMWysL/s1600/IMG_20181222_111328%257E2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1015" data-original-width="1600" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW3Z55gtDsgex6jExceKrQUbxDUQm6K_NMtyx7Z5Aq7Td4Jkd7yN13p6TJw6usPG65Djda582pGe9emtw4AiOP-2JHdm_NC93TZkSkkMAxlmKmSpEk9tW1f4LyK0imUj_AIupKkcnMWysL/s640/IMG_20181222_111328%257E2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Aare-Ware Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFFFVb7jk6BMYNLBZ4Ui1_VGG8i-MsZdUy5gOa8h6_i0A7wdqomCyBDg3jFWWWBvevdK85-tTghn5yVSbLtSp46clV1zTqwwcB51rRqO6jhpHgqjQ_1nJJGKWNk80P-wFgN7tMbvAnAIM/s1600/IMG_7123.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFFFVb7jk6BMYNLBZ4Ui1_VGG8i-MsZdUy5gOa8h6_i0A7wdqomCyBDg3jFWWWBvevdK85-tTghn5yVSbLtSp46clV1zTqwwcB51rRqO6jhpHgqjQ_1nJJGKWNk80P-wFgN7tMbvAnAIM/s640/IMG_7123.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We travelers...Ware beach at the background</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ware Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aare Beach during low Tide</td></tr>
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This was our third visit to Ratnagiri hence we decided to visit only Ratnagiri Marine Fish Museum and Birthplace of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak. <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2014/10/trip-to-beauty-of-konkan-ratnagiri.html" target="_blank">click to Read my Travel Blog</a> on Ratnagiri year 2014. We first visited Ratnagiri Marine Fish Museum. Museum consists of many varieties of Marine as well as freshwater fish variety. You can see Wheale fish skeleton as well as information on marine life. Its good place to spend an hour.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBIXDlXjlYVEk_xcBqZZt0rERrlffzKokFBKC9JchjzGxXRjUaQAgbZM-QAXnIGvo_eXRYGfZaL-3wzgJ-zxTTfTOofQ6sx4qdWK8_7VKZFFteAQZQl9Q1j1BvsLw-RwvelQ4ZmV0l6mf/s1600/sea+hourse.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1179" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBIXDlXjlYVEk_xcBqZZt0rERrlffzKokFBKC9JchjzGxXRjUaQAgbZM-QAXnIGvo_eXRYGfZaL-3wzgJ-zxTTfTOofQ6sx4qdWK8_7VKZFFteAQZQl9Q1j1BvsLw-RwvelQ4ZmV0l6mf/s400/sea+hourse.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea horsefish</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Z06KCXDtTecTwQ8URXRBF1nJf8oTc13mheyIUeBUV2t5JHomUy9F18mui_xtGN2MqkWLp41wkNZhozk3OG_kpVLGwEMP9eHjb3vkZuD9u7fnr-jKGmEQ7-NQezWcFrWyA5p3xHUS2bSL/s1600/fish.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Z06KCXDtTecTwQ8URXRBF1nJf8oTc13mheyIUeBUV2t5JHomUy9F18mui_xtGN2MqkWLp41wkNZhozk3OG_kpVLGwEMP9eHjb3vkZuD9u7fnr-jKGmEQ7-NQezWcFrWyA5p3xHUS2bSL/s400/fish.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marine fish</td></tr>
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We were hungry so without wasting any time we had our lunch at "Amantran" restaurant. It is famous for seafood and the meal was delicious. I tried Royal Pomfret fish meal with Crab masala whereas Renuka had Veg meal with Amras and Modak.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabH2XqEJoYLfzXTWcpOzI4ZS5T-QjBjdYzRKIkZJaES6IZLOUjJCBmGYqsEvZmPCM43hs6BATHMz3o-bOoR7aFyhg3DT3LhhIqQkSKqEePTeshU3c91TLcaeOQY0D9cRc4KpKD_GC6UFy/s1600/IMG_6779.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabH2XqEJoYLfzXTWcpOzI4ZS5T-QjBjdYzRKIkZJaES6IZLOUjJCBmGYqsEvZmPCM43hs6BATHMz3o-bOoR7aFyhg3DT3LhhIqQkSKqEePTeshU3c91TLcaeOQY0D9cRc4KpKD_GC6UFy/s400/IMG_6779.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Royal Pomfret meal with Tasty Crab Masala</td></tr>
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After a tasty meal, We went at Bal Gangadhar Tilak Birth Place. He was an Indian nationalist, journalist, teacher, social reformer, lawyer and an independence activist. He was the first leader of the Indian Independence Movement. The British colonial authorities called him "Father of the Indian unrest." He was also conferred with the honorary title of "Lokmanya", which literally means "accepted by the people (as their leader)".<br />
You can see the entire house which is maintained very well. You can get a sense of the typical house of a Ratnagiri resident. Some of Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s personal belongings like pagdi, uparna, and pen are there on display along with some old photos too. Unfortunately, tourists skip this place but I feel proud and lucky to visit such a place where a legend freedom fighter of India was born.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuk8iu5CHheX_peTuHDm8HTdPkhXRDugm64HnsuBV6aCWDjJ0Uvknk8NOeOjRXtSxeMM4C84t2CdfWmh3LleEhmpJguQheXQhQwEm1SXzmyB3yhn0CvZbjUYluoLaDOLk77yBRz00w124l/s1600/Ratnagiri+trip_2014+445.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuk8iu5CHheX_peTuHDm8HTdPkhXRDugm64HnsuBV6aCWDjJ0Uvknk8NOeOjRXtSxeMM4C84t2CdfWmh3LleEhmpJguQheXQhQwEm1SXzmyB3yhn0CvZbjUYluoLaDOLk77yBRz00w124l/s640/Ratnagiri+trip_2014+445.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bal Gangadhar Tilak birthplace</td></tr>
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We returned to Bhandarpule and checked in at hotel Krushnkunj. We spend our evening time at Kajirbhati beach for Sunset and some photoshoot. We meet our friend Rupesh Prabhu who newly opened Scuba Dive site near Kajirbhati beach. We booked Sunday morning slot for Scuba and went to Ganapatipule for Dinner. In our last trip, We visited Prachin Kokan Museum. so we visited Magic Garden. This place has some illusion ride, magic show, mirror maze etc. An overall good place to visit with Kids for fun. we had a light meal at dinner and went to the hotel for rest.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcPfDMSb6WwSDuXUCkosZsQbtqRy7IAAaz1elYaX2mCuGNgBMeP4M5X-8eMq5l0ehyr-usryeClUXmFatAKF14dtSlc6-Qw4A8kbi85CUP3PGKwoSsetA1xVNMwwvM0CtTUlKtqX2ZW0K/s1600/IMG_7160.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcPfDMSb6WwSDuXUCkosZsQbtqRy7IAAaz1elYaX2mCuGNgBMeP4M5X-8eMq5l0ehyr-usryeClUXmFatAKF14dtSlc6-Qw4A8kbi85CUP3PGKwoSsetA1xVNMwwvM0CtTUlKtqX2ZW0K/s640/IMG_7160.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Kajirbhati Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fHAOOIED0SqbiQeSR11b5tWp1NFGS2mHrVLjI0NnUeDMngn82j3OBmQ_XaBu1U0KPf763h67AFKQATj-Qz-D68WG2Trh4tgY1qXjP9ARWNKIxUPeGnPbyk8K5dlpvFnsL7Rhn8STmZ9Z/s1600/IMG_7262.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1025" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fHAOOIED0SqbiQeSR11b5tWp1NFGS2mHrVLjI0NnUeDMngn82j3OBmQ_XaBu1U0KPf763h67AFKQATj-Qz-D68WG2Trh4tgY1qXjP9ARWNKIxUPeGnPbyk8K5dlpvFnsL7Rhn8STmZ9Z/s640/IMG_7262.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Light after Sunset from Kajirbhati beach</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Fish museum entry: INR 30/ for 2 person</li>
<li>Fish museum Camera chargers: INR 25/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Amamtran: INR 900/- (Royal pomfret meal, Special Veg meal, Crab Masala, Cold drinks)</li>
<li>Stay at Krush-Kunjan: INR 1500/- AC</li>
<li>Bhel at kajirbhati: INR 25/-</li>
<li>Magic garden entry: INR 300/- per person</li>
<li>Dinner: INR 170/- (Curd rice, extra curd, and Masala Papad)</li>
<li>Ice cream: INR 170/-</li>
</ul>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span></u></b>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 4: 23nd Dec 2018 – Scuba Dive at Kajirbhati - Pune:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up at 7.30 AM and left the hotel by 8.30 AM. We reached at Kajirbhati beach for Scuba Dive. We were doing scuba dive after a break of 3 years and it was our overall 6th Dive in India. The weather was perfect for dive and a cool breeze was playing on sea water. We were amazed at the water visibility; we were not expecting so much clear water visibility. we reach a Dive site in the boat. Dive location was just 200-300 meters away from the beach and overall depth was 4-5 meters. We geared up with wetsuits. There are plenty of Corals, Rock patches and fishes around us. We were surrounded by beautiful and colorful small fishes, they aren’t harmful and watching them is a treat to the eyes. It is really hard to describe just how awe-inspiring SCUBA diving is … the underwater world is just so unique.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTdlmfMLjZk4GBVklm8SgXoLh9Q2CHVWcHF-0xeO6BaGSqc-oFPgA8kx2ciU9rxVFyYz6wxcC5jcmCCTEG8VjFs_toldkTOwSFQ9P1EhedMj4kOzt0Kge7djDpbVgwwa0ny-VxdRbFAec/s1600/EFQX3034.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTdlmfMLjZk4GBVklm8SgXoLh9Q2CHVWcHF-0xeO6BaGSqc-oFPgA8kx2ciU9rxVFyYz6wxcC5jcmCCTEG8VjFs_toldkTOwSFQ9P1EhedMj4kOzt0Kge7djDpbVgwwa0ny-VxdRbFAec/s640/EFQX3034.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfie during Dive (Date time was not set in camera)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj38W2ZfhqF0axZWuubsWUDaSVy66o_dgZggedORvr6GLTuJvpJNuNH_vJS0loqlvKO8nkQemkcDRWwS6e6gpR7zwzalsLvYjednYd0CW-wIeCttIGvTOblRGIcMzkhlh0ZRHXrU91tBr15/s1600/JKMQ5024.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj38W2ZfhqF0axZWuubsWUDaSVy66o_dgZggedORvr6GLTuJvpJNuNH_vJS0loqlvKO8nkQemkcDRWwS6e6gpR7zwzalsLvYjednYd0CW-wIeCttIGvTOblRGIcMzkhlh0ZRHXrU91tBr15/s640/JKMQ5024.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We during Scuba Dive (Date time was not set in the camera)</td></tr>
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This dive site also consists of Live marine plants and small underwater valley. We saw a variety of fishes and this dive site is far better than Malvan for sure. It's not good to compare the Dive sites as every dive site have its own identity. By the time I'm writing this travel blog, I just came back from Scuba dive trip to Netrani Island (Karnataka) where I was swimming with 400-500 fishes and saw Shark, eels, giant Napoleon fish etc. Soon I will publish travel blog with underwater videos on Netrani Trip.<br />
We spend around 40 to 45 Min inside water and overall experience at Kajirbhati was simply amazing. After Scuba Dive, We returned hotel bath and check out process. We took a lunch break at Rupesh's newly opened restaurant. After a tasty meal, our return journey to Pune begins.<br />
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QwO1hMP7y5U/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QwO1hMP7y5U?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
Ignore Date and Time on video as It was not set in the action Camera<br />
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We prefer Amba ghat route for our return journey. we had Evening break as hotel Kasturi, amba ghat and Dinner at Aaram hotel near Khambatki ghat. We reached home safely by via NH-66 route by 11PM. It was truly a stress-relieving trip.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to go Home!</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
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<li>Coffee: INR 30/- for 1</li>
<li>Maggi: INR 40/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Scuba dive: INR 4000/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Veg Lunch: INR 130/</li>
<li>Fish lunch: INR 300/-</li>
<li>Car petrol: INR 1000/-</li>
<li>Snacks and Coffee 120/-</li>
<li>Toll 1: INR 75/-</li>
<li>Toll 2: INR 60/-</li>
<li>Dinner: INR 200/-</li>
<li>Toll 3: INR 90/-</li>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Contact Numbers for reference:</span></u></b><br />
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Sagar Darshan beach Resort: 919422382593 / 919881060298<br />Rupesh Prabhu (Scuba Dive at Kajirbhati): 919766420038 / Sachin Govekar 918669646658<br />Madachya Banat, Malgud: 919867027261 / 919930024501 (Mid Range resort)<br />Krishnakunj Resort: 919820198037 (Budget place)<br />Amantran restaurant: 02352226001<br />Prathamesh Water sports, Malgund: 919405957305 / 917020207826</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">GPS coordinates:</span></u></b><br />
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Malgund Beach: 17.174884, 73.257205 (There are multiple ways to enter on the beach)<br />Waravade Beach: 17.218313, 73.244727<br />Kachare Beach: 17.256174, 73.226099<br />Nandvade Beach: 17.268331, 73.220884<br />Kushal water sports (Scuba Dive): 17.113187, 73.277832</div>
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b><br />
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-24450230302826034962018-10-06T23:43:00.000+05:302018-11-25T23:45:18.698+05:30Ramdara Temple, Pune<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Ramdara temple is a beautiful temple and half-day picnic spot near Pune City. It was on the list for monsoon but didn’t get time to visit. Post monsoon we decided to visit the temple<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ramdara Temple</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Ramdara temple</span></u></b></div>
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Ramdara temple is around 30km from Kothrud area. As it is located outskirts of Pune city, the distance may change based on your city location. Temple rebuilt in 1970 and the main shrine of the temple is Lord Shiva though idols inside the temple are of Lord Ram, Laxman and Sita.<br /><br />To reach the temple from Pune city is Kothrud (Or your respective location) – Swargate – Camp area – Hadapsar – Solapur highway – cross the first Toll – Loni kalbhor – take right after crossing the small bridge (bridge on water stream) on the highway – cross small village after km drive – Ramdara temple.<br />The road ends at Ramdara temple so fewer chances to miss the location.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">September 2018: Ramdara temple visit</span></u></b><br /> We left home by 7-7:30AM and reached the temple after an hour drive. Landscape change after crossing Loni kalbhor area. You cannot spot temple till you reach the entrance arch. Temple is located between the hills and they have enough parking spaces under plantation. You can see beautiful temple view from Arch.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome Arch</td></tr>
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Temple has beautiful mythology Paintings and colourful walls. You can spend an hour around the temple. The area is calm and peaceful. Lake around the temple and lots of greenery keep temple area cool. Temple has beautiful idols of Lord Ram, Laxman and Sita. It also has a shrine of Lord Shiva. Nandi in front of Temple is impressive. You see Ganesh temple as well within the temple area. Temple also have Ashram of Shri Devipuri Maharaj also known as Dhundi baba.</div>
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There is a walkway around Lake and you can see lots of birds. There is a huge tree (Umbar tree) at the start of the walkway (near Arch) which is home to many small birds. You can spot raptor nearby area. Overall this place is a good choice to spend a couple of hours and treat to the eye during monsoon.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ramdara Temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ramdara Temple</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car petrol: INR 400/- (Petrol rate was around 87-88 per Lit)</li>
<li>The toll on Solapur highway: INR 30/- Return</li>
<li>No car parking charges</li>
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs.<br />Thanks for reading this travel blog<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Pritesh Kulkarni</b></span></div>
<span style="color: red;"><div style="text-align: right;">
<b>Pune</b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-46251682621235744232018-09-30T23:00:00.000+05:302018-11-22T00:26:10.571+05:30Weekend trip to Velas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We wanted to visit Konkan area during monsoon and we decided to visit Velas beach. It was our second visit to Velas. We contact Mohan Upadhye for stay arrangement and he offered his own house for stay. I just recovered from Surgery hence we were looking for a homestay. Mohan sir was in Mumbai for some work so he offered us his place.<br />
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Travellers for this trip were me and my wife Renuka.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">way to Velas</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Velas:</span></u></b></div>
Velas is a small village, famous for Olive Ridley turtle population that visits the Velas beach every year and lays their eggs during winter time. Best time to visit Velas is from Jan mid to March end. Bankot Fort is also few km away from Velas.<br />
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Best way to reach Velas is Pune - Tahmini - Mangaon - Goregaon - Mandangad - Velas. Road condition after Mandangad is in a horrible state. Also, road condition between Tahmini village and Tahmini ghat top is in a bad state.<br />
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While returning, we chose a different route. It was from Velas - Crossed Savitri river by Ferry - Harihareshwar - Goregaon - Mangaon - Tahmini - Pune. Road condition is much better than the Mandangad route. Road condition between Harihareshwar to Mandgaon (11km shorter than Harihareshwar-Goregaon) is in a horrible state.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 1: 29nd Sept 2018, Pune – Velas:</span></u></b><br />
We started our journey at 6 AM in the morning. We wanted to reach at Velas as soon as possible. We had our breakfast at “Quick bite” in Tahmini. Road condition till Tahmini stop was not in good shape but we gain speed after Tamhni ghat. There was beautiful greenery everywhere and a lot of flowers along the roadside making this journey more charming. It was difficult for me to go ahead without taking smalls breaks for photography.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tahmini Ghat</td></tr>
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we visited Shiv temple which is just km before Devhare village. Shiv temple is small but built in Konkani style. Temple was surrounded by Forest. In the local language, it is known as Devrai. Shivling is very old and you can see other old Idols inside the temple. As per Locals, history of the temple is a cow instead of milking for her master, was delivering it on a stone in the jungle. Her annoyed master once followed her to that stone. Seeing the behaviour of the cow, he tried to axe the stone. As the axe hit the stone, the red blood emerged out of the stone. The master understood that this was not an ordinary stone; he apologized to the stone & started worshipping it. That stone is the Shiva-Linga (The symbol of Lord Shiva). I heard similar stories in different part of Konkan region.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shiv temple at Devhare village</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Devhare Shiv temple</td></tr>
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We reached Velas by 1PM. Our meal arrangement was made at Chandrakant Jadhav's home who is a neighbour of Mohan Upadhye. Food was simple but tasty. after a meal, we visited Nana fadnavis (3rd Peshwa from Maratha emperor) statue as he belonged to Velas. After a quick visit, we came home for rest.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana fadnavis statue</td></tr>
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By 4:30 PM, we left for Velas beach. Velas is enclosed by mountains on three sides and open to the sea on the fourth. It is famous due to the Turtle Festival. Velas is also one of the popular breeding sites of Olive Ridley, which is an endangered species of turtle. Season to visit Velas for Turtle Festival is from January till March. Beach has black-brown soft sand and calm sea waves. Mohan Upadhye is one of the person from Velas to developed and maintained the breeding site for Turtles. we heard a lot of stories from Mohan on our first visit to Velas (the year 2015).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4G0fPpuxkwkF1V8W9HQp-DZB1u58TUmqiVj54qmkstgPeenUP1Ag6vSZglpuA5h-PzWk4w33XAg5QFpjtAAsjkmhvju8A0VEW5lFOLqagjzJeG5VkD9EsdWtN1DylVR4Umm6RY8jxDvu/s1600/00000IMG_00000_BURST20180929174806533_COVER+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4G0fPpuxkwkF1V8W9HQp-DZB1u58TUmqiVj54qmkstgPeenUP1Ag6vSZglpuA5h-PzWk4w33XAg5QFpjtAAsjkmhvju8A0VEW5lFOLqagjzJeG5VkD9EsdWtN1DylVR4Umm6RY8jxDvu/s640/00000IMG_00000_BURST20180929174806533_COVER+copy.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Velas beach</td></tr>
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<div>
we returned home after a beautiful sunset from Velas beach. We had our Dinner at Suryakant Jadhav's home. Special thanks to Jadhav family for preparing separate food for me considering my post surgery requirements. Tomorrow's morning plan was to visit Velas outskirt area for birding. We got to know that Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher visit Velas every year during the Migration period. Chandrakant Jadhav knows the location so he agreed to join us.</div>
<div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car fuel: INR 2500/- (Fuel rate was around INR 90/-)</li>
<li>Breakfast at Quick bite: approx INR 200/- for 2 people (Upama + Dosa + 2 Coffee)</li>
<li>Veg meal in Dinner: INR 320/- for 2 people</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Day 2: 30th Sept 2018, Velas - Pune:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up by 6 and left the room by 6:30 AM for bird watching. Suryakant Jadhav joined us and we went nearby field. We spend an hour near the water stream where Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher visits. Our waits paid off as we saw beautiful Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher. I was prepared to capture in camera but missed it. We saw other forest birds and came back for breakfast.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvEWL3_gMElIhKbk35eAE2clkEsgVNAGnLLsN47TtFkeTdHVU8dn9HNMEkov-1rMWLOGOHnCO3EIPIexy8jJ3lOEiwFEdBY_rX25lidajYMKvKVMorCjmotOs9y3faFwN5QNvbeIhDAFG/s1600/IMG_20180930_064304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvEWL3_gMElIhKbk35eAE2clkEsgVNAGnLLsN47TtFkeTdHVU8dn9HNMEkov-1rMWLOGOHnCO3EIPIexy8jJ3lOEiwFEdBY_rX25lidajYMKvKVMorCjmotOs9y3faFwN5QNvbeIhDAFG/s640/IMG_20180930_064304.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nearby Velas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDha3TZjf_n1riAUNOtoXHcN3-EKkuj2-2t-95iS-sXyEL3qT-_1CxMbSYKjRLKZts9fY14mjEmhTGa5l6vUR8zz-0_sa2hKWK4Ddd-b5TNzLpXmMggrZZXe8bFXiIvyqv4OpEyDZ_SbjA/s1600/IMG_20180930_063930+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDha3TZjf_n1riAUNOtoXHcN3-EKkuj2-2t-95iS-sXyEL3qT-_1CxMbSYKjRLKZts9fY14mjEmhTGa5l6vUR8zz-0_sa2hKWK4Ddd-b5TNzLpXmMggrZZXe8bFXiIvyqv4OpEyDZ_SbjA/s640/IMG_20180930_063930+copy.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bird watching trail with Z security... surprisingly Dogs were quite inside forest trail so we can focus on birding!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After breakfast, we went towards Sakhari village which is on the south of Velas. You can see kelshi beach opposite the river creek. There is also a small Beach between Velas and Sakhari. There is no route to reach the un-named beach. You have to take a forest trail to reach the beach. Beach is very small with clam waves. we spend some time and then went for Bankot Fort which is located on the north of Velas.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mJS8uWzPYza1wgPDhMv4Pq5uBEUJN2uG7ENDCEqOsp2_YfcVEI1SDhxc9YWjmY7sOJhXfcTxM_1cFl2UmWA42pwFGTh_H32ZLJEhBCk2YV4uQ_semDvxEMYikh6Kg_D_SLr8RHS8qvlD/s1600/IMG_20180930_094624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mJS8uWzPYza1wgPDhMv4Pq5uBEUJN2uG7ENDCEqOsp2_YfcVEI1SDhxc9YWjmY7sOJhXfcTxM_1cFl2UmWA42pwFGTh_H32ZLJEhBCk2YV4uQ_semDvxEMYikh6Kg_D_SLr8RHS8qvlD/s640/IMG_20180930_094624.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Un-Named untouched small Beach</td></tr>
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Bankot creek was a major sea trade route; hence fort was important as a watchtower for the trade route. References of this fort are found in Greek traveller Pliny’s works in first century AD, where he refers to this fort as Mandargiri or Mandgor.In 1548, Portuguese won this fort from Adilshah. Later Kanhoji Angre captured this fort. In 1818, Commander James captured the fort and named it as Fort Victoria.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWMu5QcfRq6Gr3X27kqqXMkbx_ktVIw9r2RIDk6IyPwwJ789gqz3R-yk7C7UAQ1Z8S1HBv-o2hcXnt1EU6bGDmnM_cY_C6qsNdUTwbFB9Fds_rRJGs0pj7sDRO_RH4yrdGetrwAt9JKyy/s1600/View+from+fort.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWMu5QcfRq6Gr3X27kqqXMkbx_ktVIw9r2RIDk6IyPwwJ789gqz3R-yk7C7UAQ1Z8S1HBv-o2hcXnt1EU6bGDmnM_cY_C6qsNdUTwbFB9Fds_rRJGs0pj7sDRO_RH4yrdGetrwAt9JKyy/s640/View+from+fort.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Bankot Fort</td></tr>
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Main entrance of this small fort is intact. You can see water tanks, Basement room and bastion on the fort. Fort is too small that it takes hardly 15-20 min to see the entire fort. From here we can have a glimpse of Savitri River and the surrounding region. Bankot fort has an interesting connection with Sir Arthur Mallet of the Arthur seat point fame at Mahabaleshwar. He lost his wife and 32 days old daughter in a tragic ferry mishap at the creek.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAbP3_oeNmXF0FVv5Pndz24DtibWLCcDN6fMZT36wBQwYtMyFX6in9sdbIjUlymC_gIJNkrwfM0atJX3xrNHvil2gbW_yYzYUp4ruuUdKrp_ZgDQT6oPjWziCnQLdgw3VVseGz9MITnXZy/s1600/Bankot+fort.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAbP3_oeNmXF0FVv5Pndz24DtibWLCcDN6fMZT36wBQwYtMyFX6in9sdbIjUlymC_gIJNkrwfM0atJX3xrNHvil2gbW_yYzYUp4ruuUdKrp_ZgDQT6oPjWziCnQLdgw3VVseGz9MITnXZy/s640/Bankot+fort.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fort Entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We returned to Velas after Bankot fort visit. We packed our bags and left beautiful Velas by 12. As Mandgangad route in the horrible state so we decided to travel via Harihareshwar. There is a Ferry service to cross the Savitri river. We went to Vesai village which is just 7 km from Velas. You can cross the River along with your car. Harihareshwar is around 4 km from Bagmandla.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMeir9_zM-YzKgXNGPyAb5rpDvYAghr0ersshnTb9BNaWTUhYCUgxoMZnnKY4wsh0QsB9yt2_qkMyvN-HIwcyuO3B-eEs_zF1hOHzdpbJk1XTH5KpapM4aHUxVqJTbmRwKn5ZdM4yYz7sP/s1600/PANO_20180929_120123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1600" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMeir9_zM-YzKgXNGPyAb5rpDvYAghr0ersshnTb9BNaWTUhYCUgxoMZnnKY4wsh0QsB9yt2_qkMyvN-HIwcyuO3B-eEs_zF1hOHzdpbJk1XTH5KpapM4aHUxVqJTbmRwKn5ZdM4yYz7sP/s640/PANO_20180929_120123.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savitri River</td></tr>
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Harihareshwar is known as Kashi of Southern India. Temple is surrounded by Holy hills named as Brahma, Vishnu, Shiv and Parvati. Temple and nearby area have huge mythology history associated with it. Pradakshina (Parikrama) route is unique and interesting. It starts behind the temple. You need to climb a small hill and then get down from another side. Take a walk around the rocky coastal hilly area which is exposed to strong sea waves and wind. Parikrama becomes very risky during high tide as the entire path is covered by sea waves with the strong water current. For monsoon, the route is closed for safety reasons.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmneqeZbwqM6LaC_g_vlsk8jmIqvNtwN1a1YfcRcmuZHXLs3dZ7d6JytrK8NwHAgwSj3Irgsdt36ArgbgyOoW3sfsQwQkVFQiMdHl0vRKicrAKwQtelLfauS8MYC8Fnk4JQtl4vvgIB_E/s1600/IMG_0533+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmneqeZbwqM6LaC_g_vlsk8jmIqvNtwN1a1YfcRcmuZHXLs3dZ7d6JytrK8NwHAgwSj3Irgsdt36ArgbgyOoW3sfsQwQkVFQiMdHl0vRKicrAKwQtelLfauS8MYC8Fnk4JQtl4vvgIB_E/s640/IMG_0533+copy.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parikrama Path start point</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFp2ObRaEnbtpZZET6ysaVv_-r7mUDFAci6AQ7PK9Ljk97IyaX-VZOvzv06BTvYaSFVINUShPOAzNvmlQF4xi09dSkqF7IsSvT4hrgNlnZkauX4xz_Rix7VDoC8yNflsWw_HlDJm-XXZp/s1600/00100dPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20180930134339701_COVER+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFp2ObRaEnbtpZZET6ysaVv_-r7mUDFAci6AQ7PK9Ljk97IyaX-VZOvzv06BTvYaSFVINUShPOAzNvmlQF4xi09dSkqF7IsSvT4hrgNlnZkauX4xz_Rix7VDoC8yNflsWw_HlDJm-XXZp/s640/00100dPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20180930134339701_COVER+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colour of Nature</td></tr>
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We left Harihareshwar by 2 PM and had lunch near Mhasala. We choose Tamhini Route for our return journey. Tamhini Ghat welcomed us with Heavy rainfall. We reached home safely by 9:30-10 PM<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Breakfast: INR 110/- for 2 people</li>
<li>Car entry in Jetty with 1 person: INR 150/-</li>
<li>Jetty ticket for 1 person: INR 13/-</li>
<li>Parking at Harihareshwar temple: INR 40/-</li>
<li>Water Bottle: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Mhasala: INR 154/- (2 Egg Burji + 2 Extra pair Pav)</li>
<li>Coffee in Tahmini: INR 40/-</li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b><u>Contact Number for reference:</u></b></span><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Mohan Upadhe: 91895622778, 918983767388</li>
<li>Suryakant Jadhav: 917218053041</li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PsScKXhkXTah6ixwZanP6ApXS4kd3mqrhsfUzgGTMVAzM4DRbp6302wIwJ7YvtLm0457Fmq-Jm93us-RFDn5hMwvr-VDZMfSY_O0JJeqoKfI40wc6efTF7t3o2w_m-kM3zddIB-gchs2/s1600/IMG_20180930_172453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PsScKXhkXTah6ixwZanP6ApXS4kd3mqrhsfUzgGTMVAzM4DRbp6302wIwJ7YvtLm0457Fmq-Jm93us-RFDn5hMwvr-VDZMfSY_O0JJeqoKfI40wc6efTF7t3o2w_m-kM3zddIB-gchs2/s640/IMG_20180930_172453.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tahmini Ghat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Pritesh Kulkarni</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Pune</b></span></div>
</div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-39089719888171857832018-08-04T23:25:00.000+05:302018-08-31T23:29:15.196+05:30Quick ride to Neelkantheshwar Temple, Pune<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Neelkantheshwar temple was on my list to visit from a long time. The distance between the Neelkantheshwar temple and my place is around 40km. I decided to visit the place on my Cycle. This was my Solo monsoon trip to Temple.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50LQmjudiFV0ppcKt2NpAw-PPlAS0RSZh21_gVNu0R7AdpHzND_aX0ABY8cfHs0Arx2M_8q40aksDsjMtfHY257ZBR7pp8YpXkHk-ASTDD9w1DwY4nyVCt7Gg_z4KYob1l3JzWvJh-nOR/s1600/IMG_6631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50LQmjudiFV0ppcKt2NpAw-PPlAS0RSZh21_gVNu0R7AdpHzND_aX0ABY8cfHs0Arx2M_8q40aksDsjMtfHY257ZBR7pp8YpXkHk-ASTDD9w1DwY4nyVCt7Gg_z4KYob1l3JzWvJh-nOR/s640/IMG_6631.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ashtavinayank Ganapati, Lord Shiva</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Neelkantheshwar temple:</span></u></b></div>
<div>
Neelkantheshwar temple is located near Panshet and it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Tempe is situated on the hill and you can see the statue expressing the Indian Mythology.</div>
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To reach the Temple from Pune is, Pune - Warje - Uttam Nagar - Kudje - Katawadi - Take a left at Katawadi - Cross the bridge on River - Take a left on T Junction - Jambhali Village - Take right (Welcome arch) for Neelkantheshwar - Neelkantheshwar Parking.</div>
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Another route is Pune - Sinhagad Road - Khadakvasala Dam - Take right just before Dam - Take left after crossing bridge - Kudje - Katawadi - Take a left at Katawadi - Cross the bridge on River - Take a left on T Junction - Jambhali Village - Take right (Welcome arch) for Neelkantheshwar - Neelkantheshwar Parking.</div>
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You can reach the temple (Longer route) as Pune - Sinhagad Road - Khadakvasala Dam - Khanapur Village - Panshet Dam - Neelkantheshwar temple.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">GPS Location:</span></u></b></div>
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Neelkantheshwar Temple: 18.405920, 73.644622</div>
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Neelkantheshwar temple Parking: 18.401923, 73.651120</div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b><u>July 2018: Pune - Neelkantheshwar Temple - Pune (82 km)</u></b></span></div>
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I woke up early and left home at 6AM on my MTB Cycle. I'm a regular cyclist hence 80km was easy to achieve for me. Soon I crossed Khadakvasala area and the hilly region began. I was carrying energy bars and puncture kit. Road condition towards temple is not good for Road bike Cycle (Type of Cycle) but manageable for MTB or Hybrid Cycles. I reached the river bridge which is after Katawadi. I took my first break for some pictures.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2_6F_LkQrRcIQ8sAqmrNYT3T88SjCdjRx04I1gEVLnpSPhE5B2yNRl_DvA3eqbOC39c6TnT7PjQaLzVb72rpr5-ORyy4N9sxR8BbMalMKWHMEEqKG1v2bNGkoxBrmy6cLvsEnoQeoB6I/s1600/IMG_3992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2_6F_LkQrRcIQ8sAqmrNYT3T88SjCdjRx04I1gEVLnpSPhE5B2yNRl_DvA3eqbOC39c6TnT7PjQaLzVb72rpr5-ORyy4N9sxR8BbMalMKWHMEEqKG1v2bNGkoxBrmy6cLvsEnoQeoB6I/s640/IMG_3992.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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After a few km of paddling, I reach the welcome arch. Temple is 3km from the welcome arch whereas car parking is at 1.5km. The road from this point is pretty steep and tested my stamina on the climb. The road is also not in a condition to ride the Cycle. somehow I manage to reach the parking area. you can park your vehicle (Bike/Car/Bus) at some nominal charges. The small restaurant is available in the parking where you can get basic snacks items and tea/coffee. From this point, you need to do a small hike. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkF-hsz-tgpGcKTFjkLnYL-87W3rDkrNnw5kxEZpMIiDgyZGpovaYQT-ECb045cgG361r9ohZHoJoXz7WseDxVuOJ_NGn17GypGLwAEv9tOatLPUg5kNSJl9sow8RNFG9VLdl1xY1pgAEW/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkF-hsz-tgpGcKTFjkLnYL-87W3rDkrNnw5kxEZpMIiDgyZGpovaYQT-ECb045cgG361r9ohZHoJoXz7WseDxVuOJ_NGn17GypGLwAEv9tOatLPUg5kNSJl9sow8RNFG9VLdl1xY1pgAEW/s640/IMG_4030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I decided to take Cycle on the top. First, 700-800 meters patch was very steep and I was unable to ride it. After that, I enjoyed off-roading ride till the entrance of the temple gate. Heavy rain started hence I went inside the temple and took the Lord Shiva's Darshan. After some rest, I started exploring the temple area.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaWcSrVYtiVFEgrdDRa1Nu8a9-ZCGLW6duTm4Z7f9NsDIyU_O6atRw9YFWXoCd9qZN_NaLFzNeXFH592f2SlfCe8ddPfIrJVdNfulR1i5pkIBb_vw8hBPwYXhB0u0OsAC-QNFFR1IJDcMT/s1600/IMG_4021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaWcSrVYtiVFEgrdDRa1Nu8a9-ZCGLW6duTm4Z7f9NsDIyU_O6atRw9YFWXoCd9qZN_NaLFzNeXFH592f2SlfCe8ddPfIrJVdNfulR1i5pkIBb_vw8hBPwYXhB0u0OsAC-QNFFR1IJDcMT/s400/IMG_4021.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG668heO41Gdrwf4nGb0Izsc1F1t4FcdPgv6gSLTFIxPixI9dn9p_22d4Ugzi88dBr_N1fslL7lw3iukpktUpb3PEk0JxOVFd397R8G5ict4uGV9Znbj8Ymry_uMt52MG4h_87UWN7UtK2/s1600/IMG_6651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG668heO41Gdrwf4nGb0Izsc1F1t4FcdPgv6gSLTFIxPixI9dn9p_22d4Ugzi88dBr_N1fslL7lw3iukpktUpb3PEk0JxOVFd397R8G5ict4uGV9Znbj8Ymry_uMt52MG4h_87UWN7UtK2/s640/IMG_6651.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lord Shiva Temple is mainly famous for statue spread across the temple area. These statues or group of statues share a story from Indian Mythology. You can view stories from Lord Krishna life, Ramayana, Mahabharata from the group of statues. Apart from Mythology stories, you can see giant statues of Indian god and goddess. The statues of Navaratna grah, Ashtvinayank Ganapati, famous god/goddess idol from Pune, Maharastra's Sant etc can be seen in the temple area.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjODn2lRDS1N2IRTacalGjYxmoGiyLFsWCNmR5kGHS3a63y5NTVv3QtK8TSyfdqHqgvIoG3YVPEZdpT-PKC0Qv6UBWCcO-B2zuzWe9tFMV2g-p4u6WQDueaQ53gEbhbzRJSY-YFi4H3Oqmm/s1600/IMG_6640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjODn2lRDS1N2IRTacalGjYxmoGiyLFsWCNmR5kGHS3a63y5NTVv3QtK8TSyfdqHqgvIoG3YVPEZdpT-PKC0Qv6UBWCcO-B2zuzWe9tFMV2g-p4u6WQDueaQ53gEbhbzRJSY-YFi4H3Oqmm/s640/IMG_6640.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord Hanuman - Goddess Sita visit</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2mZ5FrgNhrrkmMFp9P7qQtI2s1HaqdBrtG_8PwEPEGcycBtOl0H5GUOzKeD4lJwYxgtXgTcdn3WtoK6Q1M8YdFXCrlD-q7j4MpGywAmVCY6hiXoSA2psNYl47askZzUYmxBO8sJ1XZiA/s1600/IMG_6642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2mZ5FrgNhrrkmMFp9P7qQtI2s1HaqdBrtG_8PwEPEGcycBtOl0H5GUOzKeD4lJwYxgtXgTcdn3WtoK6Q1M8YdFXCrlD-q7j4MpGywAmVCY6hiXoSA2psNYl47askZzUYmxBO8sJ1XZiA/s640/IMG_6642.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Navagrah</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSK_Pe-qS6_Vn2lW6BX1IO36qef9eFrt3QBU2fzgFruDwe8oQFi8CcMmG51DbDbVMBASsnoTb0ytS5J5f11gm3phQg-U1ZzCoZKsxWr8STl6CBy25KjWOakcN-uzjdBKdY5RBP7knekWp8/s1600/IMG_6646y.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSK_Pe-qS6_Vn2lW6BX1IO36qef9eFrt3QBU2fzgFruDwe8oQFi8CcMmG51DbDbVMBASsnoTb0ytS5J5f11gm3phQg-U1ZzCoZKsxWr8STl6CBy25KjWOakcN-uzjdBKdY5RBP7knekWp8/s640/IMG_6646y.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vastraharan from Mahabharata</td></tr>
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I left the beautiful temple and came down till parking area without riding cycle. My return journey began and I decided to fallow the same pictures route. I had Tasty spicy Misal Pav near Kudje village. Reached home safely by 1 PM after riding 80-82km.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2e9D5Q3_oKvVuy6nzeihiP0iXqSOdHT6-1SyvBk8iG-jP9TdAy-9gKTYd3QEQfixwJBgD-8XiynY4OB6PNoEdb4bY8eHqeHGJOA2aiZ8mX93f_kAq3zoM2F1nKeyuR5Y8nlQ1UuOpun2b/s1600/IMG_E4037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2e9D5Q3_oKvVuy6nzeihiP0iXqSOdHT6-1SyvBk8iG-jP9TdAy-9gKTYd3QEQfixwJBgD-8XiynY4OB6PNoEdb4bY8eHqeHGJOA2aiZ8mX93f_kAq3zoM2F1nKeyuR5Y8nlQ1UuOpun2b/s400/IMG_E4037.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Misal Pav</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Coffee: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Misal Pav: INR 60/-</li>
<li>Water bottle: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Parking charges: Not for Cycles (INR 10/20/30 for Bike/Car/Bus)</li>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Nearby Places to Visit</span></u></b></div>
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<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2012/12/trip-to-sinhagad-bird-valley-and.html" target="_blank">Sihagad Bird Valley and Fort</a></div>
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<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2015/04/bird-watching-at-sinhagad-valley-and.html" target="_blank">Sinhagad Bird Valley</a></div>
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<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2012/06/day-picnic-to-panshet-dam.html" target="_blank">Panshet Dam</a></div>
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<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2012/07/day-picnic-to-madhe-ghat.html" target="_blank">Madhe Ghat</a></div>
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<br />Thanks for reading this Travel Blog. Happy traveling.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;">
<b style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</b></div>
<span style="color: red;"><div style="text-align: right;">
<b>Pune</b></div>
</span></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-71826595247052217482018-07-07T23:00:00.000+05:302018-08-19T18:17:55.918+05:30Monsoon trek to Chavand and Naneghat<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Monsoon was on peak in Maharashtra and we don’t want to miss the opportunity for the trek. Wanted to avoid crowded and famous trek hence we decided to Visit Chavan fort from Junnar area along with a quick visit to Naneghat.<br />
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Trekkers for this trek were I, Himanshu and Aditya.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lzFhNOOlclIhkJud4SeWtj7LnQPYbpJMCaOvJVLO-jZNzBV7MHG0nEg7AN7_da2P78XXY_WH6-KDxFlneXMceuTcrQtHnb4iUwI5JnuUDmhA4TOEL5AmBVR3kUfZpcHmumBIOYjIPqYY/s1600/IMG_6508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Chavand Fort" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lzFhNOOlclIhkJud4SeWtj7LnQPYbpJMCaOvJVLO-jZNzBV7MHG0nEg7AN7_da2P78XXY_WH6-KDxFlneXMceuTcrQtHnb4iUwI5JnuUDmhA4TOEL5AmBVR3kUfZpcHmumBIOYjIPqYY/s640/IMG_6508.JPG" title="Chavand Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chavand Fort</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Chavan and Naneghat:</span></u></b><br />
Chavand fort is in Junnar Taluka and around 15-6km from Junnar town. Fort was built during Satvaahan era. Fort Name was Prasannagad under the rule of Shivaji Maharaj. Chavandwadi is the Base village of the fort.<br />
Naneghat is the mountain pass which was used as a trade route between Konkan (Mumbai Coastal) and ancient town of Junnar. It is around 30km from Junnar town. Mountain pass was built by Satvaahan empire and they carved cave at the entrance which has Brahmi script carved on the wall.<br />
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To reach Chavand from Pune is Pune - Kasarwadi Phata - Pune-Nashik Highway - Take a left at Narayangaon - Junnar - Take the straight road from Shivaji statue - Chavandwadi.<br />
The same road goes to Naneghat and distance from Chavan is around 15km.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">GPS Location</span></u></b><br />
Chavand Fort: 19.238097, 73.745905<br />
Naneghat: 19.291958, 73.675661<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">7 July 2018: Pune - Chavand - Naneghat:</span></u></b><br />
Wari procession was planned in Pune city so to avoid the traffic, we decided to leave Pune before 5AM. We woke up at 4 and left Pune by 4:45AM. Journey on Nashik Highway was pretty smooth without any traffic. We reached by 6:30AM and had quick breakfast in Junnar town. We moved ahead for base village Chavandwadi. It was cloudy weather with some rain showers. You can view massive but beautiful Chavand fort and it’s rock patch from base village. There is enough space near the village school to park your vehicle.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0uUQZgpRL-0_EIZts4b0fz41YLQxVOuG6g3sMdPrTrswg1UJB_QGW4bOjG_4AYWfiPzadX4N3vM3knUz-AYNfkKap2bjDe5iqA3ykvG7mebxpnJ9cWsYsOM_Q8GtkPGSfwuRJ1odZybZB/s1600/IMG_6387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0uUQZgpRL-0_EIZts4b0fz41YLQxVOuG6g3sMdPrTrswg1UJB_QGW4bOjG_4AYWfiPzadX4N3vM3knUz-AYNfkKap2bjDe5iqA3ykvG7mebxpnJ9cWsYsOM_Q8GtkPGSfwuRJ1odZybZB/s640/IMG_6387.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chavandwadi village</td></tr>
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We begin our trek. Chavand fort is small and it hardly takes 30-45 min to climb it. Steps were built by local authorities till the rock patch and then steps carved in rocks takes you to the entrance gate. Climbing the steep steps can make you a little tired. Each step is bigger than a regular step. Sometimes it is about a knee high. After climbing the steps, we reached the start point of the rock patch. This part of a trek uphill was indeed pretty interesting. There are few Steps cut in the rock patch. Those are more like small Footholds than the steps. Safely railing and rope with the bolt are mounted on the rock patch for trekkers safety.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxq2bjUPIZFrhTA20L1dezM8udLFy8h89kdB5n3hlqpJlUjvjtLMg-7qorG4tDSum8_JaLg9_mj0sPybzcBn3USrZUoraI-SJqRXFsdoVpk2c_ErnQMgSs9jPD4puLyvhT3PjNY9Qy7H13/s1600/IMG_6392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rock patch at Chavand Fort" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxq2bjUPIZFrhTA20L1dezM8udLFy8h89kdB5n3hlqpJlUjvjtLMg-7qorG4tDSum8_JaLg9_mj0sPybzcBn3USrZUoraI-SJqRXFsdoVpk2c_ErnQMgSs9jPD4puLyvhT3PjNY9Qy7H13/s640/IMG_6392.JPG" title="Rock patch at Chavand Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock patch at Chavand Fort</td></tr>
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We reached the entrance gate after the Short climb. The entrance gate is in good condition and you can see Ganesh Idol on the top of the Entrance gate frame. It indicates that entrance is built/re-Built during the Maratha empire. There are two ways to enter in the fort, the Left route is parallel to fort wall but not in proper shape to explore. Take the right route to go to the top of Fort.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglo06oFPV5uOob5mVMpIMU41Bv1euBuDRiupN2ssGs5WAH5OnL4r46JHFntzC2WSGX76KZQhP-shGpfLmGpAQvA9auFrqD2wJWvqSmezLN3FgRdxqEUDKmMOw4w25O1KdmJX38pgknAUj1/s1600/IMG_6405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Entrance Gate of Chavand Fort" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglo06oFPV5uOob5mVMpIMU41Bv1euBuDRiupN2ssGs5WAH5OnL4r46JHFntzC2WSGX76KZQhP-shGpfLmGpAQvA9auFrqD2wJWvqSmezLN3FgRdxqEUDKmMOw4w25O1KdmJX38pgknAUj1/s640/IMG_6405.JPG" title="Entrance Gate of Chavand Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance Gate of Chavand Fort</td></tr>
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After a few step climb, you can see many ruined fortification. It indicates that this fort was used as one of the main forts and not a watchtower. You can see trenches and Stone-pot in few ruined house. From this ruined place, one route goes to the top of the hill. Temple of goddess Chamunda is situated on the hill. Goddess belongs to Bengal/Bihar region. During Satvaahan era, Naneghat was built and it was trading route from coastal to central India. Trading People from Bihar or from Bengal brought the Goddess idol which was established on the fort. Fort name Chavand also came because of Goddess Chamunda. View of Sahyadri from this point is breathtaking. You can see Hadsar, Shivneri, Jeevdhan, and Naneghat fort. We came down to Ruined place after Darshan.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEM_8EG4m92rp0-_fedOX2i5OhHU4v-cKjBjpxLn4ynCeXiNl1KHaLssY8c3_uz8K4h0FqzaLKfpeGlZAIyprVWWqq3STERWROVpiHRFAgrQWI7z1xVNGCDocOrYUi8tdYBoQ43jda0CLj/s1600/IMG_6414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEM_8EG4m92rp0-_fedOX2i5OhHU4v-cKjBjpxLn4ynCeXiNl1KHaLssY8c3_uz8K4h0FqzaLKfpeGlZAIyprVWWqq3STERWROVpiHRFAgrQWI7z1xVNGCDocOrYUi8tdYBoQ43jda0CLj/s640/IMG_6414.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple at the top</td></tr>
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We went ahead to explore the fort. We saw the ruined temple. Temple is not in condition but you can see Shivlinga which indicates that the temple belonged to Lord Shiva. There is a water trench in front of the ruined temple. Some carved broken stones and broken Nandi can be seen in the ruined temple area.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTBbRydMrF-1oGYF9CnD0kL4nLYMOu31E-w7FjzqjS0P1S0fLr6lYIj6T3Nal3kX6OxxaqxPX-RawxqOuIu6wxihfFPMBm-ibTQlqhR6PXc_IkD7YVHzIGypf19p9hUeMaeiuBJhGSyDv/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTBbRydMrF-1oGYF9CnD0kL4nLYMOu31E-w7FjzqjS0P1S0fLr6lYIj6T3Nal3kX6OxxaqxPX-RawxqOuIu6wxihfFPMBm-ibTQlqhR6PXc_IkD7YVHzIGypf19p9hUeMaeiuBJhGSyDv/s640/DSC_0012.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shiva Temple with broken Nandi and Lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjya9L7ZdFzULJWIM8mwcIM69lhhyphenhyphenACqz8xUH3Q4wIAi69jk6BfMaxplyMnicmgj2gIZhS8_kQrj6B9Yp42wJXlIm1SSAMZ3TKQrKWj-4AsxlrO-9YGS4DKTkp5tiKnuxMPh-cNNSGmt73f/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjya9L7ZdFzULJWIM8mwcIM69lhhyphenhyphenACqz8xUH3Q4wIAi69jk6BfMaxplyMnicmgj2gIZhS8_kQrj6B9Yp42wJXlIm1SSAMZ3TKQrKWj-4AsxlrO-9YGS4DKTkp5tiKnuxMPh-cNNSGmt73f/s640/DSC_0001.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruined Shivliinga inside Shiva Temple</td></tr>
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we moved ahead to explore the fort area. We took right side route after a few meter walks keeping ruined temple on the right side. There are 7 water tanks aligned along each other. It is known as Saptamatrika and name of water tanks given as Brahmi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indrayani & Chamunda which are powerful goddess names. We saw Human-made caves on the North-East side of Fort. There are around 5-6 caves. Local believes that they belonged to Satvaahan ear. Considering the construction of caves, they look like built during Nizam or Memperorempiror. It is mainly used by soldiers and to keep watch on the area. You can see a beautiful view of Manikdoh Dam.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEC22KYBaTBiw5OVgc59QnVrL_ROsBURkrHHEldpIMYysLIx3APDQNC08geEKvlPS_-aiZhdmM2fqkZ7qrxZT8nI7VeVAfTmafsMWubphN7U8hSPVikn-gY3lZns8w0WlldjzgddKlq7JS/s1600/IMG_3782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="7 Water trenches on Chavand Fort" border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="1600" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEC22KYBaTBiw5OVgc59QnVrL_ROsBURkrHHEldpIMYysLIx3APDQNC08geEKvlPS_-aiZhdmM2fqkZ7qrxZT8nI7VeVAfTmafsMWubphN7U8hSPVikn-gY3lZns8w0WlldjzgddKlq7JS/s640/IMG_3782.JPG" title="7 Water trenches on Chavand Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 Water trenches on Chavand Fort</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxYeiJ1JfEqNzuTa4MNbzeyb6xjICes6cGeS2rifFsF0Mibv7IqVJ9clbdG9BfofJd00R3QYqpZTpGuSyf_RL65-a3JEPd0zTXyDnMuYOweIoK-kBixDn76QNzVJb5z4j80a9aUP_xN-w/s1600/IMG_6439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Saptamatrika water trenches" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVxYeiJ1JfEqNzuTa4MNbzeyb6xjICes6cGeS2rifFsF0Mibv7IqVJ9clbdG9BfofJd00R3QYqpZTpGuSyf_RL65-a3JEPd0zTXyDnMuYOweIoK-kBixDn76QNzVJb5z4j80a9aUP_xN-w/s640/IMG_6439.JPG" title="Saptamatrika water trenches" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saptamatrika water trenches</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigQD_3R5N7T6BVLy3zO87AtyMV4-040nVMKwXmeohJULF3Ics5XORP3D6dJJgwRs5bD6gtPRJyrpj4thwRWwWkxV3ps2zaIZATDxvRXW_d48J78maltCgjRgWzXGICXNdHKzpLwQaEP_A/s1600/IMG_6459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigQD_3R5N7T6BVLy3zO87AtyMV4-040nVMKwXmeohJULF3Ics5XORP3D6dJJgwRs5bD6gtPRJyrpj4thwRWwWkxV3ps2zaIZATDxvRXW_d48J78maltCgjRgWzXGICXNdHKzpLwQaEP_A/s640/IMG_6459.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Man-made Caves</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDpntk6zUCvzz_VthYM4VppM2BMldmrMj3fiEPP1zvhh4VhD0v60TCCGCIoHc_GuojuSudFCVbIuD3oklrOvwFwQVt59yupm80FEXX3IPM1UT4MJLC2i6XrfcUTK7XDq_oa7-_4vDUv3k/s1600/IMG_3785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDpntk6zUCvzz_VthYM4VppM2BMldmrMj3fiEPP1zvhh4VhD0v60TCCGCIoHc_GuojuSudFCVbIuD3oklrOvwFwQVt59yupm80FEXX3IPM1UT4MJLC2i6XrfcUTK7XDq_oa7-_4vDUv3k/s640/IMG_3785.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manikdoh Dam view</td></tr>
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After spending more than an hour, we left the fort. We climbed down quickly and went to our next destination which was Naneghat. Naneghat is the mountain pass which was used as a trade route between Konkan (Mumbai Coastal) and ancient town of Junnar. During the Satvahan era, Pratishtan (Now Paithan) was the capital whereas Jirnnagar (Now Junnar), Tagar (Ter) and Nashik were important cities. The trading route was required for traders from Coastal ports to Satvahan cities and hence Naneghat was built.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic8bcnQCcCz-jEpEXM19IMFKWfD84AIOz1K2QAO0_5xwJUVDL6cDYyKZhHWthl3-uC4MXhgSNpQK7gjTosKdBA-64xxNYqJUOZ2MQOCHm6kpfYEpS52UcP0XSXt8vbKFR_3gy7HZ342ADY/s1600/IMG_3790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Naneghat" border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="1600" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic8bcnQCcCz-jEpEXM19IMFKWfD84AIOz1K2QAO0_5xwJUVDL6cDYyKZhHWthl3-uC4MXhgSNpQK7gjTosKdBA-64xxNYqJUOZ2MQOCHm6kpfYEpS52UcP0XSXt8vbKFR_3gy7HZ342ADY/s640/IMG_3790.JPG" title="Naneghat" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naneghat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7sZRN56_796QkRXZbO8h-byVTCk3KB6eQL8E4Mn0pnK2diQtXj794DqjXv9XA0vYrYTJwZvDgio1THygUw0jkVku4wc6i-vWA2Av71o_olafUl7aDtBZ8-84XR2VoiixqDZDQKhmY5dux/s1600/IMG_6475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7sZRN56_796QkRXZbO8h-byVTCk3KB6eQL8E4Mn0pnK2diQtXj794DqjXv9XA0vYrYTJwZvDgio1THygUw0jkVku4wc6i-vWA2Av71o_olafUl7aDtBZ8-84XR2VoiixqDZDQKhmY5dux/s640/IMG_6475.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naneghat</td></tr>
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The road is available till the start point of Naneghat. As this mountain pass was used as a trade route, tollbooth was placed to collect toll (Satvahan's currency: Karshapan coins). You can see a large stone pot to collect tolls from traders. Few meters ahead, we saw a Large cave. Cave has Brahmi script carved on the cave wall. This script consists of Numeric information, detail information on Satvahan kings and much more other information as well. You can see few water trenches outside Cave. Entire Trade route built by cutting mountain stone can be seen from here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXduEe4YnrtkIPhwyuU-AEb9CDeLB-nQCLlwRyBP4zhUUJlhPbKs1R_rAx5f0EDdPBPjtbYJJpfGR3F6yRDwxw8jTcUC_UTFAO06OKjktnC1Lp_PYY7ty8W3gbpCCeGPcJAAlcMqtPpME/s1600/IMG_6489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXduEe4YnrtkIPhwyuU-AEb9CDeLB-nQCLlwRyBP4zhUUJlhPbKs1R_rAx5f0EDdPBPjtbYJJpfGR3F6yRDwxw8jTcUC_UTFAO06OKjktnC1Lp_PYY7ty8W3gbpCCeGPcJAAlcMqtPpME/s640/IMG_6489.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Man-made Cave at Naneghat</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOXVsGxtdW1U2ZMSiM8MAgDdEnBttXcT3cd6fd5DR6VF2KAlI0AuhQir3ccol8RitJ5iHYJdG-546HXfM27KulQ8wPRPkB5Bl3z6-N3Idpf_yZlF68Ts7FZw0n2uyXygtmi6SNGbzapI7/s1600/IMG_6472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Stone pot to collect Toll at Naneghat" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOXVsGxtdW1U2ZMSiM8MAgDdEnBttXcT3cd6fd5DR6VF2KAlI0AuhQir3ccol8RitJ5iHYJdG-546HXfM27KulQ8wPRPkB5Bl3z6-N3Idpf_yZlF68Ts7FZw0n2uyXygtmi6SNGbzapI7/s640/IMG_6472.JPG" title="Stone pot to collect Toll at Naneghat" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stone pot to collect Toll at Naneghat</td></tr>
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Trekkers climb up entire Naneghat which is famous trek route. We climbed down a few meters and came back. We also had a quick climb on the mountain which is above Cave. Mountain peak is known as Nana cha Agatha (Uncle's Thumb) due to its Shape. Peak offers you a breathtaking view of Sahyadri.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oqMiKGqCnKtGEhGSurWedUH4EboCDU3UvDx-D6CSHM5mY7KhsbbfiVQkpjjSF1QAwnlSWGeqqjZqBwIX7buUapy6Wo9HkSh9A5qPWQFjy8unlFsHkbkMKhjfSJfiGMAMjhxWYM9Nb6d1/s1600/IMG_6495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oqMiKGqCnKtGEhGSurWedUH4EboCDU3UvDx-D6CSHM5mY7KhsbbfiVQkpjjSF1QAwnlSWGeqqjZqBwIX7buUapy6Wo9HkSh9A5qPWQFjy8unlFsHkbkMKhjfSJfiGMAMjhxWYM9Nb6d1/s640/IMG_6495.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naneghat route</td></tr>
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We returned to Junnar town and had lunch at Multi-spice restaurant. Food was very tasty and service was quick. After lunch, we started our return journey to Pune. We reached home by 9 PM safely ending a pleasurable monsoon trek.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Our Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car Fuel: INR 1500/-</li>
<li>Toll: INR 51/-</li>
<li>Breakfast and Coffee at Junnar: INR 185/- for 3 people</li>
<li>Lunch at Multi-spice: INR 620/- for 3 people (Starter, Soup, 1 veg dish and Rotis)</li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">My Other travel blogs from the nearby area</span></b><br />
<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2014/07/monsoon-magic-in-malshej-ghat-and.html" target="_blank">Shivneri Fort and Malshej Ghat</a><br />
<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2017/07/quick-trek-to-narayangad-and-amba.html" target="_blank">Narayangad fort and Amba-Ambika caves</a><br />
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Thanks for reading this Travel Blog. Happy travelling.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune.</span></b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-1987428984389055982018-06-17T23:00:00.000+05:302018-08-02T21:04:59.853+05:30Weekend trip to Panhala-Pawankhind<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Our plan to Visit Mahalaxmi Temple (Our Kuldevi) was due and hence we planned a weekend trip to visit Temple along with Panhala fort and Pawankhind.<br />
Travelers for this trip were I and Wife Renuka.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xfcxq0t2NadcS3jD08gIYVaiyo8vyMuETc-W1mRLC345E2ZNhfE3cW16HYH6FPuVTdpSfqUYoKtCo-hydQ-Ykx-E9lkRabtEEaXVm_3JR71trl_dWoOn9x9fpMlSlwk0s7fUG_I93hyphenhyphen4/s1600/IMG_5645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pawankhind Waterfall" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xfcxq0t2NadcS3jD08gIYVaiyo8vyMuETc-W1mRLC345E2ZNhfE3cW16HYH6FPuVTdpSfqUYoKtCo-hydQ-Ykx-E9lkRabtEEaXVm_3JR71trl_dWoOn9x9fpMlSlwk0s7fUG_I93hyphenhyphen4/s640/IMG_5645.JPG" title="Pawankhind Waterfall" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pawankhind Waterfall</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Panhala and Pawankhind</span></u></b><br />
Panhala fort is around 20km away from Kolhapur. It was one of the important forts to keep watch on Deccan region. Notable events linked with Panhala were the escape of Shivaji Maharaj from Siddi Jouhar’s trap followed by Battle in Pawankhind, the capital fort of Kolhapur state, queen Tarabai’s life etc.<br />
Pawankhind is located around 66km from Kolhapur and 18km from Amba Village. It is famous for Battle of Pawankhind which between Siddi Masud of Adilshah and Great warrior Baji Prabhu Deshpande of Maratha empire.<br />
To reach Panhala from Pune is Pune - Natinal Highway 4 - Satara - Karad - Kini - Take right at Vathar Tarf Vadgaon Village - Panhala.<br />
We went to Panhala from Kolhapur which is just 20km<br />
To reach Pawankhind from Pune is Pune - national Highway 4 - Satara - Karad - Take right at Pachvad Phata - Kokrud - Malkapur - Amba - Take a left at Amba Village - Pawankhind<br />
There is a direct route from Malkapur to Pawankhind via Pandharepani. The road is narrow with a few bad patches.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">15 June 2018: Pune - Kolhapur:</span></u></b><br />
We left Home by 7PM after our office hours and had dinner near Wai Junction. After Dinner, we went to Kolhapur and reached a relative’s place by 11:30PM.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Toll 1: ₹135/-</li>
<li>Lunch: ₹330/- (Maharastrian vegitables, 4 Rotis, Rice and 2 Lemon Soda)</li>
<li>Toll 2: ₹60/-</li>
<li>Toll 3: ₹70/-</li>
<li>Toll 4: ₹70/-</li>
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">16 June 2018: Kolhapur - Panhala - Amba:</span></u></b><br />
We woke up in the morning and went to Mahalaxmi Temple for Darshan. Temple is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi/AmbaBai which is considered as one of the 108 Shakti Peetha as per Hinduism.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjSFLnbbYRpaadlh6rwvZiPPTbcdAOLFtDhXbvTzfjRfnwDxSOrtaJN6hmXxXLMIB1rUPwRmsk39lr5vkSLkzzvFE4t7k91rdKS4hcQhiN82LFZL2Ptkr7muSO8FVEBLzKQB7-qPfUc3f/s1600/aaji.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjSFLnbbYRpaadlh6rwvZiPPTbcdAOLFtDhXbvTzfjRfnwDxSOrtaJN6hmXxXLMIB1rUPwRmsk39lr5vkSLkzzvFE4t7k91rdKS4hcQhiN82LFZL2Ptkr7muSO8FVEBLzKQB7-qPfUc3f/s400/aaji.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clicks from Mahalaxmi Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After Darshan, we visited the famous Misal Joint “Gavran Misal”. It is located in Rajarampuri area. Misal Joint is relatively new in Kolhapur and gained popularity in quick time. Like the rustic look and Misal was tasty.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fOWNbmFMW8vaNV47g4PrRvO3BLayzwn2T7pqglC_dmP6trAECYRQQH4Jza1JAWm5VEr2sNqd7JbPNpjQjUwiF9B3pCEPFOxAQ3aaPT3IymDTAjfAE-3MUNvUxN1lwkUu77f83V6okWX-/s1600/IMG_3419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fOWNbmFMW8vaNV47g4PrRvO3BLayzwn2T7pqglC_dmP6trAECYRQQH4Jza1JAWm5VEr2sNqd7JbPNpjQjUwiF9B3pCEPFOxAQ3aaPT3IymDTAjfAE-3MUNvUxN1lwkUu77f83V6okWX-/s640/IMG_3419.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gavran Missal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We left Kolhapur by 11AM for our next destination which was Panhala Fort. It was just 20km Away from Kolhapur. Fort can be seen by own vehicle as the proper road is available to reach every point. Panhala Fort was built by King Bhoj 2 from shilahar dynasty in 1178 to 1209 CE. Fort came under Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur in 1489. The major fortification was built in this period. Shivaji Maharaj took Panhala after the death of Afzal Khan in 1659. In 1660, Siddi Jauhar lays Siege to Panhala. After 5 months siege, Shivaji Maharaj able to escape with trusted Commander Baji Prabhu Deshpande. After Famous Battle of PawanKhind, Baji Prabhu Deshpande lost his life to secure Maharaj’s Life. Fort was recaptured in 1973 by Shivaji Maharaja’s warrior kondaji Farzand with only 60 brave warriors. Panhala came under Kolhapur king and then to British Raj.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFzPmNZx_WRGbVhA7sw5KQPf2pxONVUchFCnt_GlCtz5jMTvGt2AhtoT3_ntoP2FNH5wSCNp_dvFfVjmeZhdbJH9TxgUNiLfyPYNM2v_E-TMTEdHfDEtO2eVuSO9Ywmk3ugUj-Zi7IgIL/s1600/IMG_5484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Teen Darwaza" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFzPmNZx_WRGbVhA7sw5KQPf2pxONVUchFCnt_GlCtz5jMTvGt2AhtoT3_ntoP2FNH5wSCNp_dvFfVjmeZhdbJH9TxgUNiLfyPYNM2v_E-TMTEdHfDEtO2eVuSO9Ywmk3ugUj-Zi7IgIL/s640/IMG_5484.JPG" title="Teen Darwaza" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teen Darwaza at Panhala Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We visited Andhar Bavadi first at Panhala Fort. Andhar Bavadi means Hidden well. It was the drinking water source of Fort. Well is 3 story building with rooms around it. It looks like building from ground to misguided under attack.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfuxkxSbwYlvwzkkDKt87KcQwx6_-OQrHILqqHnK-osU-K8Iv_HL6b5CAwJKOV4ifZZ5kvuQzke1GwD030rA2ti6z8wvHMQBX89bFP7x7dxIT8z8gQSRh6_O87Vb0xae7XldRn3z3CpocJ/s1600/IMG_5464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Andhar Bavadi" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfuxkxSbwYlvwzkkDKt87KcQwx6_-OQrHILqqHnK-osU-K8Iv_HL6b5CAwJKOV4ifZZ5kvuQzke1GwD030rA2ti6z8wvHMQBX89bFP7x7dxIT8z8gQSRh6_O87Vb0xae7XldRn3z3CpocJ/s640/IMG_5464.JPG" title="Andhar Bavadi" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andhar Bavadi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Teen Darwaza is located near Andhar Bavadi. Teen Darwaza (Means Three Entrance gate) is the main entrance of Panhala Fort and located on West side of Fort. There is a court between the first two gates. Inner gates are decorated with beautiful carving and Lord Ganesh idol is also carved on the gate. you can see Persian script on the outer gate (Gate to enter inside fort from the west side) which says Gate was built in the reign of Ibrahim Adil Shah I by Malik Daud Aki son of Minister Ahmed in 954 as per Islamic calendar (1534 CE)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlK-xVSW0D9RLtW6E8L2gOqfksVVHgGxVXT-f1cuuTLkHlqDsZ5m6H_x4cTx62P_NqPqW-d5fUVZm3N6UgpFq8tcz-dlAv4UNQ9O-BYBcum_dsc1UUq9CxDUdm8m9c9RyfHvh5b2XZZiVm/s1600/IMG_20180616_142931+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlK-xVSW0D9RLtW6E8L2gOqfksVVHgGxVXT-f1cuuTLkHlqDsZ5m6H_x4cTx62P_NqPqW-d5fUVZm3N6UgpFq8tcz-dlAv4UNQ9O-BYBcum_dsc1UUq9CxDUdm8m9c9RyfHvh5b2XZZiVm/s640/IMG_20180616_142931+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teen Darwaza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Our next destination was Ambarkhan. It consists of three buildings (Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati) which were used to store grains. Ganga Kothi (Storage building) is the largest building amongst the three. There is one temple dedicated to lord Shambu Mahadev. When Sambhaji Maharaj successfully returned to Panhala fort from the Dilerkhan's trap then Shivaji Maharaj came to Panhala to meet his son Sambhaji Maharaj. This was the last epic visit (Dec 1679) of Father-Son (Two great King of Maratemperorror) before Shivaji Maharaj's death (3 April 1680).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKch-Y1sSaVlgAljCIVHCdy6Bhpt3eIb6VBamkOz0z2GgJVkCFe3Kv3mNaF7Y-DggidCRege7jP6sjE39RFJxOfH3pbZetoiHA3eefDNxweJUniFKfaAz5qcERCK8sQsOOYrZ9cug5TFok/s1600/IMG_20180616_154944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambarkhana at Panhala" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKch-Y1sSaVlgAljCIVHCdy6Bhpt3eIb6VBamkOz0z2GgJVkCFe3Kv3mNaF7Y-DggidCRege7jP6sjE39RFJxOfH3pbZetoiHA3eefDNxweJUniFKfaAz5qcERCK8sQsOOYrZ9cug5TFok/s640/IMG_20180616_154944.jpg" title="Ambarkhana at Panhala" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ambarkhana</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4MsBIUzEzR_MXIUxMYiVGQMs_92sfSUUX6GLW5UXg1U1T9kFy2Dg7-qWnRr-7RofGD0rq8KUnxtYi14bXmWJgfn-ajG277qUenEi8Bo8P5zIXb1t3JlJZiV1z0QwWWginfwpVXHSzHlMq/s1600/IMG_20180616_155243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ambarkhana" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4MsBIUzEzR_MXIUxMYiVGQMs_92sfSUUX6GLW5UXg1U1T9kFy2Dg7-qWnRr-7RofGD0rq8KUnxtYi14bXmWJgfn-ajG277qUenEi8Bo8P5zIXb1t3JlJZiV1z0QwWWginfwpVXHSzHlMq/s640/IMG_20180616_155243.jpg" title="Ambarkhana" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ambarkhana</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiszeZ8SmXl6CJlcdhQ5yjXsJz-iZHsC4Li13B37GhPGM3rYqFP_uCbqTo8hIc8a8e7H5OMIasIh9Mg2eKNEraDqNNxMEgl7S6oqCX2ALMBr7pUP6Jdc7izsMXUDD8u3vc2O7TtBWZiUKNO/s1600/IMG_20180616_160449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiszeZ8SmXl6CJlcdhQ5yjXsJz-iZHsC4Li13B37GhPGM3rYqFP_uCbqTo8hIc8a8e7H5OMIasIh9Mg2eKNEraDqNNxMEgl7S6oqCX2ALMBr7pUP6Jdc7izsMXUDD8u3vc2O7TtBWZiUKNO/s640/IMG_20180616_160449.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shambu Mahadev Temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After Ambrkhana visit, we went to Pusati Bastion and Rajdindi route. Rajdindi route was the route by which Shivaji Maharaj escape to Vishalgad during the battle of Pawankhind. You can climb down from this route and it is a popular Panhala-Vishalgad trek route.<br />
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8xA8L9qG_RcaqaQ5ABgR-ESjFn7IUPyEOivJIWAwgewT13i91HuCFKc6NZiX3XP0rDbnKQ8D9GtZ1A7Z0V7jGO0xzwi3-j7CrkVpUZCCv6A6gHk4ad1fO-BGZCTYo5yEK0R4R5Uybiwo/s1600/IMG_3423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="1600" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8xA8L9qG_RcaqaQ5ABgR-ESjFn7IUPyEOivJIWAwgewT13i91HuCFKc6NZiX3XP0rDbnKQ8D9GtZ1A7Z0V7jGO0xzwi3-j7CrkVpUZCCv6A6gHk4ad1fO-BGZCTYo5yEK0R4R5Uybiwo/s640/IMG_3423.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pusati Bastion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtnnJ_0h53ZZq6r5pJ1HzzyQXy5V0ZKwJGSichxJDvVoqed0WI8Z2c8o1Ccv7aV106GWO4GY3bvpcS9-45vSmFWCLw-WOUQu9qsfX8Cj5obrfZyb-59Tf9a1eldLgwJrJH5ht5ngbakA6a/s1600/IMG_3425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="737" data-original-width="1600" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtnnJ_0h53ZZq6r5pJ1HzzyQXy5V0ZKwJGSichxJDvVoqed0WI8Z2c8o1Ccv7aV106GWO4GY3bvpcS9-45vSmFWCLw-WOUQu9qsfX8Cj5obrfZyb-59Tf9a1eldLgwJrJH5ht5ngbakA6a/s640/IMG_3425.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raj Dindi route</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
Our next place to visit was Sajja Kothi. It was built by Ibrahim Adil Shah in 1500 and the main purpose is to keep a close watch on the valley. Sambhaji Maharaj was house arrest for sometime in Sajja Kothi. The place is not maintained well. After a quick visit, we took Darshan of Goddess Ambabai of Panhala fort. Ambabai is the oldest temple from the fort and Shivaji Maharaj used to visit before any major expedition. Tarabai Palace was closed hence we were unable to visit the place.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoPG0-zElDU-U94iuNIk6TG2d2adDwo7jJ_plee-AuZ1EMoXEijXvH401z4sUClhrTcysMhIWZqmECL6Z9QJJ_DOjcDbx_krKL-XNSgPLcntGv4VtyL-LjHmxMux6UqpUkS2RLm7klfzV/s1600/IMG_5508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sajja Kothi" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoPG0-zElDU-U94iuNIk6TG2d2adDwo7jJ_plee-AuZ1EMoXEijXvH401z4sUClhrTcysMhIWZqmECL6Z9QJJ_DOjcDbx_krKL-XNSgPLcntGv4VtyL-LjHmxMux6UqpUkS2RLm7klfzV/s640/IMG_5508.JPG" title="Sajja Kothi" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sajja Kothi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We left Panhala fort and headed towards Amba Ghat. We booked Room in Kasturi farmhouse which is 4-5km before Amba Village. When we reached Near Amba village, Monsoon clouds took control of sky and it tempts us to visit Amba Ghat to enjoy the monsoon moods rather than a hotel check-in. We settle down at one of the valley viewpoints and enjoyed the rain shower over Valley. To our surprise, there was hardly any traffic in the ghat (Generally it is quite a busy route to enter in South Konkan) section. Heavy rainfall in the valley, different shades of grey color in the sky trying to suppress the variation of green in the valley, Sunlight on the horizon keeping everyone's hope alive and windy cool breeze adding more drama made our evening more special. The nature stage was perfectly set for two nature lovers.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCaTrht0YSGAErlGbdeJHsXAFT1Yfc04B_m3zy9vBrA9HGT6h8KAOo0jDBcNzmswl51CkevFq1fWUYqDzhmW8JxJrtIh-DA7w2xo5V1H1-zNVcEpEtDzohRbGvK9datnsFkKy9rFn6H4lE/s1600/IMG_5511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Amba Ghat" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCaTrht0YSGAErlGbdeJHsXAFT1Yfc04B_m3zy9vBrA9HGT6h8KAOo0jDBcNzmswl51CkevFq1fWUYqDzhmW8JxJrtIh-DA7w2xo5V1H1-zNVcEpEtDzohRbGvK9datnsFkKy9rFn6H4lE/s640/IMG_5511.JPG" title="Amba Ghat" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amba Ghat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We came to the hotel "Kasturi farmhouse" after 7PM. They have species room attached with a small kitchen and bathroom. Rooms are clean and all the required facilities are available. There is a huge plantation behind the farmhouse. They have built up walkways to explore their plantation area as well.<br />
<div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Gavran Misal: ₹40/- per plate.</li>
<li>Panhala fort entry: ₹20/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Panhala Fort car parking: ₹20/-</li>
<li>Dinner: ₹372/- (Starter, Egg Masala, Rice, Curd Rice and Lemon Soda)</li>
<li>Stay at Kasturi farm house: ₹2000/-</li>
</ul>
<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">17 June 2018: Pawankhind - Pune</span></u></b><br />
<div>
We woke up by 6.30AM and left for Pawankhind. It was around 22-24km from the hotel. On the way to Pawankhind, you can visit Manoli Lake and waterfall. As it was a start of the monsoon, Waterfall was not active. We move ahead and route from the forest is very scenic. We Took multiple pitstop to enjoy the forest view or valley view. We reached Pawankhind by 9AM.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ydu57aLAK20VdNQjPA5SiKFzyPSyi-hZYwj0HCIks-8tlvY2Xzr-WKds_TCt_5Rr5Gp1s_Fvddk-yx4_EOygCOzncu6VE7_D2cXBUmTorqvnay48cvr7QTglZsHlEpoKWsSaXavyljve/s1600/IMG_20180617_093217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Way to Pawankhind" border="0" data-original-height="1155" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ydu57aLAK20VdNQjPA5SiKFzyPSyi-hZYwj0HCIks-8tlvY2Xzr-WKds_TCt_5Rr5Gp1s_Fvddk-yx4_EOygCOzncu6VE7_D2cXBUmTorqvnay48cvr7QTglZsHlEpoKWsSaXavyljve/s640/IMG_20180617_093217.jpg" title="Way to Pawankhind" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Way to Pawankhind</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Ghod-khind was the actual name of Khind (Mountain Pass). Battle of Pawankhind was between Baji Prabhu Deshpande from Maratha Empire vs Siddi Jauhar from Bijapur Empire. Shivaji Maharaj escaped successfully from Panhala fort along with 600 warriors on a dark night of 13 July. Warrior Shiva Kashid dressed like Shivaji Maharaj and misguided the enemy. It gave time for Maharaj and 600 warriors to escape towards Vishalgad. In pursuit, Adilshah sends 10,000 armies for the chase. After crossing Pandharpani plateau, it was clear that Maharaj cannot reach Vishalgad without a battle. Trusted commander Baji Prabhu Deshpande decided to Battle with just 300 warriors against an army of 10,000. Ghodkhind (Now Pawankhind) was the perfect place as only a few soldiers can pass at a time. Baji Prabhu Deshpande assured that he will fight till Shivaji Maharaj reach to the Vishalgad.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBeS8rDUgglJU_-0az1w3JodhMy5MpGiJDYIaUcbCX7T1VkLY2FHkevdEqi-0yXFeCdDKBxGXHcM1AKtdAqt6BBPxZzW8Itkxkuqw2vMFjW4tciVF6LmaPphK-GTlGtoOYaNsSv9BHm-oG/s1600/IMG_5568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBeS8rDUgglJU_-0az1w3JodhMy5MpGiJDYIaUcbCX7T1VkLY2FHkevdEqi-0yXFeCdDKBxGXHcM1AKtdAqt6BBPxZzW8Itkxkuqw2vMFjW4tciVF6LmaPphK-GTlGtoOYaNsSv9BHm-oG/s640/IMG_5568.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Newly built Bastion at Pawankhind</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xzi-Yd962kB-ik_5Va4zck6Hi1rNvT-kij3R_O0VgLBNJUeTfkwmh1TjWpbcjhJl4vyIDIF_QtE5VZuxwCvBpvxHsHMjfcknDbTwhSz1XFXMZGkZ8vcA8Rdk95TcnSNFP1WZoHIIynI8/s1600/IMG_5611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xzi-Yd962kB-ik_5Va4zck6Hi1rNvT-kij3R_O0VgLBNJUeTfkwmh1TjWpbcjhJl4vyIDIF_QtE5VZuxwCvBpvxHsHMjfcknDbTwhSz1XFXMZGkZ8vcA8Rdk95TcnSNFP1WZoHIIynI8/s640/IMG_5611.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pawankhind</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Great 300 warriors took place in the Ghodkhind. Baji Prabhu Deshpande with two swords in hand took lead. Heavy Battled began and Baji Prabhu was wounded in it. He was still leading the battle. Adhishah's army repeatedly tried to break the defense but failed. Battle continued for 4-5 hours with strong defense till they heard Cannon fire from Vishalgad which was the announcement of Shivaji's return to Vishalgad. Around 200+ out of 300 great warriors died in the battle from Maratha whereas more than 1500 adhishah's soldiers killed in the battle. Baji Prabhu Deshpande sacrifices his blood to protect his King and died in the Ghodkhind after cannon fire announcement from Vishalgad. The defense of the pass of GhodKhind by about 300 Marathas led by the Baji Prabhu Deshpande was renamed as "PawanKhind” which means “The Battle of the Sacred Pass”. In Marathi, Pawankhind name described as "बाजीप्रभूच्या रक्ताने पावन झालेली खिंड म्हणजे पावनखिंड".<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cLNwnkVelDvG5MopfnQ1KiLLOhyeNy1Ua6Q4L8PahQT5C7e9L6crMAfGHP9-nzC6c5_M8GlAkubfYs-vAY24XE7WdH0IDvURAUUN15p8oAv-N1f4TKPx38Wim72lK2SQKgQOa1WQHnGk/s1600/IMG_5699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pawankhind memorial" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cLNwnkVelDvG5MopfnQ1KiLLOhyeNy1Ua6Q4L8PahQT5C7e9L6crMAfGHP9-nzC6c5_M8GlAkubfYs-vAY24XE7WdH0IDvURAUUN15p8oAv-N1f4TKPx38Wim72lK2SQKgQOa1WQHnGk/s640/IMG_5699.JPG" title="Pawankhind memorial" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pawankhind memorial</td></tr>
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Adhishah returned from Pawankhind after a heavy loss. Shivaji Maharaj later visited Baji Prabhu's house and honored his family. You can visit the newly built memorial. From the memorial, steps go to Pawankhind. There is a narrow path to climb down in the Pawankhind. you can witness waterfall in the monsoon season. We spend some time in the Pass and then return back. Panhala to pawankhind 52km trek is famous in the monsoon.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe69tPOaEkwi7egcJXM1KH5rDQ-_OuKGExZ9VC6mcnJNge8pT2TxM438a7krllwhBPJMyQJRSEYjY4UOKnZYV3NR5roYLxjB6gQbPKo1KULB3ft-ugPvosrqap01HAPCBrvxrWhuQrGzjM/s1600/IMG_5606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Waterfall at Pawankhind" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe69tPOaEkwi7egcJXM1KH5rDQ-_OuKGExZ9VC6mcnJNge8pT2TxM438a7krllwhBPJMyQJRSEYjY4UOKnZYV3NR5roYLxjB6gQbPKo1KULB3ft-ugPvosrqap01HAPCBrvxrWhuQrGzjM/s640/IMG_5606.JPG" title="Waterfall at Pawankhind" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterfall at Pawankhind</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsRrx1iG6OjQyNkB6UWvUDIi3vr5olqkJQG7XLWKauiAro3m_2kP_AgZllIy26hKbD2u3K7zVed456oUYJ0Vd4e_ZGQwBgnv-zZXETGXDb5BQdxZWdOrIegMfHao166zJDaY_uBdfbOjM/s1600/IMG_5624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Waterfall at Pawankhind" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsRrx1iG6OjQyNkB6UWvUDIi3vr5olqkJQG7XLWKauiAro3m_2kP_AgZllIy26hKbD2u3K7zVed456oUYJ0Vd4e_ZGQwBgnv-zZXETGXDb5BQdxZWdOrIegMfHao166zJDaY_uBdfbOjM/s640/IMG_5624.JPG" title="Waterfall at Pawankhind" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterfall at Pawankhind</td></tr>
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We had lunch in Amba village and left the place for Pune. We returned Pune via Malkapur and reached home by 9PM.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Coffee at Pawankhind: ₹40/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Lunch: ₹325/- (veg and Non-Veg meal)</li>
<li>Toll 2: ₹70/-</li>
<li>Toll 3: ₹60/-</li>
<li>Toll 4: ₹85/-</li>
</ul>
</div>
<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Contact Numbers for reference:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Gavran Misal: +917776951555</li>
<li>KaFarmhouse house: +919422513797</li>
<li>Sanjay Dhumak, Pawankhind (Tea-Coffee, Lunch arrangement): +919404429829</li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCkajWAtLBnmqW2UnJkuKp-_5TlF1ZqelqTj9ZUW5BPYFfPyCa8PXCZpxyQVKFJTrorHaB1wGNwDO9Owuf4NdJubRbbSFN5H4OmKXaIg9lUClMgyilFyIVCi5M1CAtmh5En1jS66-nvmC/s1600/PANO_20180617_122616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="252" data-original-width="1600" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCkajWAtLBnmqW2UnJkuKp-_5TlF1ZqelqTj9ZUW5BPYFfPyCa8PXCZpxyQVKFJTrorHaB1wGNwDO9Owuf4NdJubRbbSFN5H4OmKXaIg9lUClMgyilFyIVCi5M1CAtmh5En1jS66-nvmC/s640/PANO_20180617_122616.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travel Time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Thanks for reading this Travel Blog. I will try to upload more and more travel blogs.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-25429237025620588932018-06-09T20:50:00.000+05:302018-07-18T20:52:37.751+05:30Offbeat Trek to Kailasgad Fort<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
As monsoon begins, it was time for a quick half day trek. We were looking for an offbeat location to avoid the crowd and come up with the kailasgad option.<br /><br />Trekkers for Kailasgad were I, friends Himanshu, Piyush, and Aditya.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Kailasgad Fort</span></u></b><br />Kailasgad fort is located in Mulashi area near backwater of Mulashi Dam. There is hardly anything to see on the fort but the trail to the top is more beautiful.<br /><br />To reach Kailasgad Fort, the route is Pune - Chandani Chowk - Pirangut - Mulashi - take Right at Nive Bus Stop (GPS 18.492028, 73.419742) - Vaduste Village - park car at Mountain Pass (Khind) (GPS: 18.525334, 73.486817)<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMkke6Td12nnB5EC_YL7sOjj255m1phv8u-ZQ-2u9UGGsXpgaxwr-UbjkE_XW58ES2Uh1y7AB1FmVJ3yqYy2_GxcV9lAUyJOXKvQPnkFNosbUH97uzPZ9nxyG1Z2_QrH1Cmw-1-LVVCuy/s1600/IMG_5425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kailasgad Fort" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMkke6Td12nnB5EC_YL7sOjj255m1phv8u-ZQ-2u9UGGsXpgaxwr-UbjkE_XW58ES2Uh1y7AB1FmVJ3yqYy2_GxcV9lAUyJOXKvQPnkFNosbUH97uzPZ9nxyG1Z2_QrH1Cmw-1-LVVCuy/s640/IMG_5425.JPG" title="Kailasgad Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kailasgad Fort</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">9th June 2018: Pune - Kailasgad Fort (Total Distance: 150km):</span></u></b><br /> We woke by 5AM and left Pune by 5:30AM. The weather was perfectly set for trekking conditions. Light rain, Dark clouds, and cool breezes make the journey more joyful. We had breakfast break at JP’s food court, Mulshi village. We reached at Base soon and parked a vehicle on the road. There is Signboard which indicates the way to Kailasgad Fort.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1dfxQZV30vmSX74bmUKJUaEK30mD766HjLscbo16JBttpv4MRS9T9i75KvgDdAwShFqG45kHNE4D9HwZToizK9CsRmkboVLQLXLPtD_1nkFedRck7KabqbHxOzYmEqwHtFjZb59Uk1ki0/s1600/IMG_3233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1dfxQZV30vmSX74bmUKJUaEK30mD766HjLscbo16JBttpv4MRS9T9i75KvgDdAwShFqG45kHNE4D9HwZToizK9CsRmkboVLQLXLPtD_1nkFedRck7KabqbHxOzYmEqwHtFjZb59Uk1ki0/s400/IMG_3233.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Way to Vadusthe village</td></tr>
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<div>
Trek begins with a Small hike on Hill and the same Hill is connected to Kailasgad. The route is narrow with exposed to the valley on your left side. The route was bit slippery but manageable. It takes around 45 min to 1 hour to reach the top of Fort. If you want to enjoy the beauty of the trail rather than Fortification then this is the perfect offbeat trekking place.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2kIEHd7zVeAeFQ-RP-A_yWR3eSMoE1J768OgJBeMcRAQOR_gbDDHm7QKGfVVfjT7zp5UVuxbZV8qZ064wQVJgvlwN7IagTFwAoIHJZiV-s3FIdxpN9x3yIk0v19DcS6WycFBN1doPkrf/s1600/IMG_5421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2kIEHd7zVeAeFQ-RP-A_yWR3eSMoE1J768OgJBeMcRAQOR_gbDDHm7QKGfVVfjT7zp5UVuxbZV8qZ064wQVJgvlwN7IagTFwAoIHJZiV-s3FIdxpN9x3yIk0v19DcS6WycFBN1doPkrf/s640/IMG_5421.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trail to Kailasgad Fort</td></tr>
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While climbing, you will come across a small monsoon waterfall (It is only inflowed during Rainfall). Just take right side direction rather than crossing water stream to continue to reach on the top. Route marks are not clearly visible which may mislead you.<br /> You can see the Swaraj flag on the top of the fort. View of Backwater and mountain range is simply breathtaking. The expert believes that fort was built during Saatvahan era and No fortification is available on the fort. You can see some ruined rock structure which looks like a ruined house. There is Shivlinga carved in Stone at the end of the fort.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEf8UG3H3rhOM7zAnd4OcZFVyoD0QleSXufj0c5u_zYP_mjkbHp_eujHDsLE5oysta-LYYuMKIahl1tJcg6yznNybp9HCzDBnpSyid_jijqoenofhW51VOkZ6AIDhNMeMPZLGil6jf4hAI/s1600/IMG_5439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEf8UG3H3rhOM7zAnd4OcZFVyoD0QleSXufj0c5u_zYP_mjkbHp_eujHDsLE5oysta-LYYuMKIahl1tJcg6yznNybp9HCzDBnpSyid_jijqoenofhW51VOkZ6AIDhNMeMPZLGil6jf4hAI/s640/IMG_5439.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shivling</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_32WFmUT-xjq2jsW8IQaBtnV59qC477jdGQzX7D2ziVlKSIqdmORTIUnXEwrXxQLt2AHYVEOZSGtdIT05MKxsjZ89u4zAh8bJjt1PmNv5FIkENEljylwgWogTxV-jBP-ALFfwaL1kEs8/s1600/IMG_3238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View from Kailasgad Fort" border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="1600" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_32WFmUT-xjq2jsW8IQaBtnV59qC477jdGQzX7D2ziVlKSIqdmORTIUnXEwrXxQLt2AHYVEOZSGtdIT05MKxsjZ89u4zAh8bJjt1PmNv5FIkENEljylwgWogTxV-jBP-ALFfwaL1kEs8/s640/IMG_3238.JPG" title="View from Kailasgad Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Kailasgad Fort</td></tr>
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We begin our returned journey and climb down in 30-40 Min. It is a short trek and better to club with Ghangad fort. We took stop at andharban valley viewpoint. View of Andharban valley is simply awesome. Andharban is famous jungle trek of 12km which goes through the dense forest.</div>
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After spending some time at Valley viewpoint, we returned home safely by the lunchtime.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1SeAtvlPrM6aBI9W1ICMoSZoCRVaDxNmwXQgdlANrZy4nO1I2zsesWk0JLH3IC7fWulq1IGzS0WMZ7YMQpcuVK8FWWTvS4qdrvN8BCACvz3vYUixg80EfVu777rmlDUEGHBV1CwIctsQo/s1600/IMG_1630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1SeAtvlPrM6aBI9W1ICMoSZoCRVaDxNmwXQgdlANrZy4nO1I2zsesWk0JLH3IC7fWulq1IGzS0WMZ7YMQpcuVK8FWWTvS4qdrvN8BCACvz3vYUixg80EfVu777rmlDUEGHBV1CwIctsQo/s400/IMG_1630.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Andharban valley</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Fuel - INR 900/- at 84Rs/L</li>
<li>Breakfast at JP foods- INR 350/- for 4 people (Misal+Upama+Idali Sambar+Tea/Coffee)</li>
<li>Dilkhush Wadapav - INR 90/- (INR15/- per pic)</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNIgL2syAKtGpFs4hbU9LAS0z5UXGuW-j-iGn3uHN-5qKxiwqSrAfkeYFK8z1weh4O0q4gt-gV69nxCH1KE3pruPdp6opOGKg-c_ZJNST3huB7c94q-NighhyphenhyphenWyJZiotbJWOSP9IT8O9Al/s1600/IMG_5418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNIgL2syAKtGpFs4hbU9LAS0z5UXGuW-j-iGn3uHN-5qKxiwqSrAfkeYFK8z1weh4O0q4gt-gV69nxCH1KE3pruPdp6opOGKg-c_ZJNST3huB7c94q-NighhyphenhyphenWyJZiotbJWOSP9IT8O9Al/s640/IMG_5418.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Thanks for reading this Travel Blog. I will try to upload more and more travel blogs.</div>
<div>
<br /><div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
<b><div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
</b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-17712379285635979002018-05-01T23:00:00.000+05:302018-05-29T21:06:03.625+05:30Paragliding at Kamshet<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Summer was on the peak which stopped us from weekend trips and treks. My cycling rides also shorten to 100km to avoid the heat. we were looking for activity and we came across Paragliding near Kamshet, on Pune-Mumbai old highway.<br />
As we (I and Renuka) are not certified gliders hence we decided to go for Tandem Ride.<br />
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Travellers for this trip were I, Renuka and friend Ameya.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Kamshet:</span></u></b><br />
Kamshet is small town located on the Pune-Mumbai old highway. It is just 16km away from famous hill station Lonavala. Kamshet is well connected by Railway line (Pune-Mumbai rail line) and by Highway.<br />
Kamshet is always a favourite destination for tourist. Beautiful Monsoon weather, Landscape, Lakes, Caves (like <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2014/04/quick-trip-to-karla-caves.html" target="_blank">Karla</a>, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2015/08/quick-trip-to-bedse-caves-hidden-gem.html" target="_blank">Bedse</a>, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2012/08/day-trip-to-bhaja-caves.html" target="_blank">Bhaje</a>), Forts (<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2013/06/monsoon-trek-to-lohagad-fort.html" target="_blank">Lohagad</a>, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.com/2014/06/day-trek-to-visapur-fort.html" target="_blank">Visapur</a>) for trekkers, Old temples are the tourist attractions near Kamshet. Apart from this Paragliding is the famous adventure attraction in Kamshet. Several paragliding schools are located in or around Kamshet and offer training or tandem flights.<br />
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We went to "Fly Nirvana" Paragliding school for our tandem Ride. Shinde Tekdi, Tower Hill, Shelar Tekdi are the few Paragliding spots near Kamshet. Few schools offer flying around Pavna Dam.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">1 May 2018: Pune to Kamshet</span></u></b><br />
we did advance booking and based on wind condition, we got evening slot. We left Pune by 11 AM and reached "Native place" resort which is base camp for Nirvana paragliding school. Resort (They call it as "Guesthouse") is surrounded by beautiful garden, trees, and good landscape. Uksan Dam is a stone throw away from the resort. we had Simple but tasty veg meal and spend some time in the resort for relaxation.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Native Place</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Native Place</td></tr>
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By 3:30 PM, we left for paragliding site which was around 5-6km from Native place guesthouse. we climbed a small hill and settled down for our tern. there are 8 students for paragliding training. If you don't know how to fly then you can go for tandem Ride. Experienced pilot fly with you and he controls the glider so you can enjoy the thrill, nature's beauty, and bird's eye view. If you want to learn Paragliding and fly without Pilot then school offers 2 or 3 days training program.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flight instruction from Pilot</td></tr>
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Our experience pilot explained us, how the glider works, what we have to do during take-off and during landing. It was an amazing experience when to took a flight from the hill. Slowly as per upwind direction, we gain height and we were above all nearby hills. It was an amazing feeling to see the nearby area from an ariel view. I was not controlling anything so I was just enjoying my flight. After 15 Min, my pilot asked me whether I'm comfortable with some air acrobat action. I said yes and he started with high-speed acrobat action in the air. The feeling was like our glider is out of control and we were about to crash. The truth was, he was controlling in such manner that it gave the feeling that we gonna fall. It was a thrilling experience.<br />
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After my tern, Renuka went for Paragliding. She also went too high and she also experienced the air acrobat. When they suppose to come down, they again went up for more acrobat action as per Renu's demand. After 30-35 min, They landed and we finished with our Tandem Paragliding. We came climb down from the hill after some time.<br />
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It was a different experience and we return home with good memories.<br />
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car Fuel: INR 700-800/-</li>
<li>Lunch: INR 200 to 300/- as per the order.</li>
<li>Paragliding cost: INR 4000-5000/- per person based on weekday or weekend.</li>
<li>Snacks: As per the order</li>
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Contact reference:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Fly Nirvana: http://www.flynirvana.com/ (912226053724, 919323708809)</li>
<li>Native place: http://www.nativeplace.com/</li>
</ul>
<br />Thanks for reading this Travel Blog. I will try to upload more and more travel blogs.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-18392122865504052422018-04-15T23:07:00.000+05:302018-05-17T23:14:39.251+05:30Weekend Trip to Akshi - Kihim - Khanderi Fort<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We were looking for a quick weekend trip in Konkan and decided to visit Akshi beach. Khanderi fort was in places to visit list hence we plan a half-day visit to Fort as well.<br />
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Travellers for this trip were I and Wife Renuka.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVqb-U5C1MyvSdsTcelhCl2RR3h7Ch9J8ku0tQN06o5B_8lrE6taijDaXDwWdshv8yTMblLzxnfYd4FuuzewQxn9A9C0fVT1BcRMDBl42nfYV3IHKj-tS9vH_ds2xLcgXE-Yvf70lUV5w/s1600/IMG_4839.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sunset from Akshi Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVqb-U5C1MyvSdsTcelhCl2RR3h7Ch9J8ku0tQN06o5B_8lrE6taijDaXDwWdshv8yTMblLzxnfYd4FuuzewQxn9A9C0fVT1BcRMDBl42nfYV3IHKj-tS9vH_ds2xLcgXE-Yvf70lUV5w/s640/IMG_4839.JPG" title="Sunset from Akshi Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Akshi Beach</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Akshi and Kihim</span></u></b><br />
Akshi Village is a small village near Alibag. It is famous for flat bed beach and bird watching in the winter season.<br />
Kihim is around 12km from Alibag towards North and famous for Beach and Watersports.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">GPS location:</span></u></b><br />
Akshi Beach: 18.623624, 72.886798<br />
Alibag beach: 18.639204, 72.871944<br />
Thal Jetty: 18.698381, 72.857551<br />
Kihim Beach: 18.726407, 72.864734<br />
Karmarkar Museum: 18.783787, 72.866268<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">14 April 2018: Pune to Akshi</span></u></b><br />
We woke by 5-5:30 and left home at 6-6:30 AM. We took Expressway route and had quick breakfast and coffee on Expressway food mall. We took Khopoli exit and took the road to Akshi. Road from Pen village to Alibag exit (Mumbai-Goa Highway) was in bad condition due to highway expansion work is in full swing. We reached at Akshi by 10-11 AM. As we haven’t done any stay arrangement, we saw few hotels and got a room at Kulpe farms. Kulpe farms are homestay budget hotel. They have AC/non AC rooms and cottages as well. Property is huge with all required activities and direct access to the beach. We did check in and went for walk.<br />
You can see the Stone Sculptural at the entrance of Akshi village, near Shankar Temple. The Gadhegal is sculptural which is essentially a large, flat rectangular stone plate with symbols and Devanagari script upon it. It is three part stone slab in which the top part shows the Sun and Moon with or without a Kalasha. The middle part consists of an edict (Announcement/Law etc.) and last part shows a donkey in sexual congress with a men/Woman. Stone name Gadhegal derived from last part as Gadhegal means Donkey and gal means Stone. The sun and moon symbolise infinity, the kalasha indicates prosperity. As per archaeology study, anyone who dares to violate the royal verdict (Which is mainly mentioned in middle part of stone) is being threatened with the most disgusting of punishments. This stones are 1000 years old and can be found in Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFc07q9NsZghvFz4RU-HEz5PzvSvu0wmbmZW-cJr-2gKCpIpmVM4GWumaElh14vdogSr_du8B_iaFC29aZDVo4KeEUN8YhkSAYJk_vFwDIbmziZ_QHiF4LxRxS96UzJNy6Q0xZcs72zbe-/s1600/IMG_1791.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ghadegal at Akshi" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFc07q9NsZghvFz4RU-HEz5PzvSvu0wmbmZW-cJr-2gKCpIpmVM4GWumaElh14vdogSr_du8B_iaFC29aZDVo4KeEUN8YhkSAYJk_vFwDIbmziZ_QHiF4LxRxS96UzJNy6Q0xZcs72zbe-/s640/IMG_1791.JPG" title="Ghadegal at Akshi" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ghadegal at Akshi</td></tr>
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We had our Lunch at Kulpe farms. The meal was tasty but it was too oily for me. After the chicken meal and began Masala, we stayed in the room to beat peak summer. By 5 PM we went to the beach for a walk and witness the sunset.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Thali</td></tr>
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Sea-shore behind cultivations is about 2-3 kilometres long. Akshi beach is extended part of Nagaon beach but less crowded as compared to Nagaon. There are no Watersports available but you can take a walk towards Nagaon beach for Watersports activities. Even though sea colour is brown but it is very safe to enjoy the waves. The beach slope was gentle and you can take KM walk towards the sea. Sunset from the beach was awesome. Orange colour spreading all over the horizon during sunset was amazing.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akshi Beach</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTW52q7ZEGb3Ckc61zFRDLERDjEkcHmYGxxF1R-m4tYkZ_vmUL1VkqMTdrKoqKrX_ZG4lF_-W4OAoELNGTR7VstEP1BZ1D6HEgd9bj61q3Ym6zbjfTgZeJxqrOoKNln6NLIzaMLNKgL_I/s1600/IMG_4785.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTW52q7ZEGb3Ckc61zFRDLERDjEkcHmYGxxF1R-m4tYkZ_vmUL1VkqMTdrKoqKrX_ZG4lF_-W4OAoELNGTR7VstEP1BZ1D6HEgd9bj61q3Ym6zbjfTgZeJxqrOoKNln6NLIzaMLNKgL_I/s640/IMG_4785.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akshi Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJcFMyqXflyYZk48G9wcR_-gWdyXQlHK2pm56wQ5H6-gbO2V6HcHMM8QzgfnVKCckeUBuGoV-SyHgl0ajT5i7z4H217MBip5nJf1DsDpgYcRw0q_DBei4JWvd45zqqYdnQENoE8LkKRFw/s1600/IMG_4807.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJcFMyqXflyYZk48G9wcR_-gWdyXQlHK2pm56wQ5H6-gbO2V6HcHMM8QzgfnVKCckeUBuGoV-SyHgl0ajT5i7z4H217MBip5nJf1DsDpgYcRw0q_DBei4JWvd45zqqYdnQENoE8LkKRFw/s640/IMG_4807.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to Relax and enjoy Sunset from Akshi Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We had a walk on the northern side of the beach. This area is mainly used by local fishermen to anchor the boats. You can see Alibag beach on the other side of Creek and Kulaba Fort in the sea. We witnessed beautiful sunset and captured the moments.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_BsF_EcuYNtEPJCkelMAEbL6xT18uhQk-uu36yFAMKM4ym5rlT0z4RnxwLGQmVhIU2z1hLtjT3SnPnzIl_v2dMdn_qI6KVnB3OWmDFfh-Zxeo61usYyM2uFj2O-WxruysRfkrKz5j_x7i/s1600/IMG_4823.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_BsF_EcuYNtEPJCkelMAEbL6xT18uhQk-uu36yFAMKM4ym5rlT0z4RnxwLGQmVhIU2z1hLtjT3SnPnzIl_v2dMdn_qI6KVnB3OWmDFfh-Zxeo61usYyM2uFj2O-WxruysRfkrKz5j_x7i/s640/IMG_4823.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset Time...Sarjecot fort on Right and Kolaba fort on Left</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPt7w1D1e0K2SW9qvt8u8sNtuf8j7tMyk7rrhIVdtWrKdzxYzIiALzSS_g2n2XPRRc7OV8fei3bHHRakB9zBpbB7gOslcKph3jIz4pDFSTpv6Hnw1TnSkLaHYx5di-ft5OueINNfz0fFg/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPt7w1D1e0K2SW9qvt8u8sNtuf8j7tMyk7rrhIVdtWrKdzxYzIiALzSS_g2n2XPRRc7OV8fei3bHHRakB9zBpbB7gOslcKph3jIz4pDFSTpv6Hnw1TnSkLaHYx5di-ft5OueINNfz0fFg/s640/IMG_4827.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset Time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUQ0FYwT5AjHSd6tPvLM-igNDe8SezkpPjQzqV3wV2y2PS_slZB7MdpG3mbh91s0mqfXkbVzQxZ5RjKZO6N6XzYlQDXOjCzlrB9ko_s38PGBU94kQI292QZGY9GtN3l1tMt4IVprxq-4M/s1600/IMG_4882.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUQ0FYwT5AjHSd6tPvLM-igNDe8SezkpPjQzqV3wV2y2PS_slZB7MdpG3mbh91s0mqfXkbVzQxZ5RjKZO6N6XzYlQDXOjCzlrB9ko_s38PGBU94kQI292QZGY9GtN3l1tMt4IVprxq-4M/s640/IMG_4882.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Akshi Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We returned to the hotel and left to Alibag for Dinner. Sanman Restaurant is a famous restaurant from Alibag for seafood. We had tasty seafood and returned to the hotel for stay.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-n4Yw28-hECDQRI44Orh8kz9RKRR5bU9i7g2Jv8V4BggKvah5Qp0VUoAe9yKKLiDcJGhE7v1NhVwda4qh196LVAMEficH9GNocRIBTtJDyrxCa_64JLYaKRxBG_wLIOAUXv9n_t2wOKu/s1600/IMG_1757.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="King fish Meal with Vade at Sanman restaurant" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-n4Yw28-hECDQRI44Orh8kz9RKRR5bU9i7g2Jv8V4BggKvah5Qp0VUoAe9yKKLiDcJGhE7v1NhVwda4qh196LVAMEficH9GNocRIBTtJDyrxCa_64JLYaKRxBG_wLIOAUXv9n_t2wOKu/s400/IMG_1757.JPG" title="King fish Meal with Vade at Sanman restaurant" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kingfish Meal with Vade at Sanman restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car petrol: INR 2400/-</li>
<li>Expressway Toll: INR 138/- till Khopoli Phata</li>
<li>McD coffee: INR 230/-</li>
<li>Stay at Akshi: INR 2200/-</li>
<li>Chicken thali in Lunch at Kulpe Farms: INR 200/-</li>
<li>Veg + Chapati + Sweet: INR 130/-</li>
<li>Water bottle: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Cold drink: INR 50/- 500ml</li>
<li>Sanman Dinner: INR 735/-</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">15th April 2018: Akshi - Khanderi Fort - Kihim Beach - Pune</span></u></b><br />
I woke up before 6 AM and went to the beach for Run/Walk. We left for Khanderi fort visit by 7:30 AM. There is regular boat service available from Thal village. Boats can be arranged from Alibag or Kihim as well at a high cost as no regular service is available. Thal Village is fisherman colony and biggest market of Dry fish items. Be prepared for the stinky smell. If you cannot Bare the smell, better to skip it. Give a call to below Number (mentioned in contact detail section) for boat timing as boat time may vary as per sea Tides.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmnl2gicoMKmMJ_mGdJulp_6LqG5MRgDGZqHYX3CRQEWZHRF5FTWxvdbDUsCqD0NV13qjmqAwgHvCpmYjZxcqHqc84dHjABt6ziOAsdQMoSE55W_cYMXh_E7ek-rH8CHPh75DCSSZKlqf/s1600/IMG_1770.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmnl2gicoMKmMJ_mGdJulp_6LqG5MRgDGZqHYX3CRQEWZHRF5FTWxvdbDUsCqD0NV13qjmqAwgHvCpmYjZxcqHqc84dHjABt6ziOAsdQMoSE55W_cYMXh_E7ek-rH8CHPh75DCSSZKlqf/s640/IMG_1770.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akshi Beach in the Morning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDjshy1EwqacO5kiT2WZ5k-qJSLg5YjOKYz-nlGcGSGugyXXhyphenhyphen8mkHQtc-9DyktHshZgzoERHVG4R3ztvyIpmN_wd5fDJJH7AuOQIqob3WmWmXkudy2LUaFFGUNSP60Gs21jJypZxl5Khyphenhyphen/s1600/IMG_4937.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDjshy1EwqacO5kiT2WZ5k-qJSLg5YjOKYz-nlGcGSGugyXXhyphenhyphen8mkHQtc-9DyktHshZgzoERHVG4R3ztvyIpmN_wd5fDJJH7AuOQIqob3WmWmXkudy2LUaFFGUNSP60Gs21jJypZxl5Khyphenhyphen/s640/IMG_4937.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golden-backed woodpecker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Khanderi fort is built on an Island which is known as Kanhoji Angre Island. Island was renamed in 1998 in honour of the Maratha general Kanhoji Angre. Shivaji Maharaj selected this Island for fortification to keep a close eye on British trade route and Siddhi from Janjira Fort. Underi Fort was built by Siddi on sister Island. There were series of battle happened between Maratha and Siddi (few battles were allied with British to beat Maratha) and finally Underi was taken over by Siddi. Underi was renamed as Jaidurg. No boat service is available to visit Underi but you can hire a private boat (chargers are as per fisherman’s demand)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Jz6W5ujsgscHrEB7iSrBWYaFT57lgyktrYU9vIcKvliqoCe9CeVOTuZXYWcNnvMz3lMoEVu59eABlQV-pcZxXV-OcfJaoIAHyY_AjagCAUd1IndytoBBUJ97h5cqLxv6crRlP1rGX6VK/s1600/BMEV1924.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Jz6W5ujsgscHrEB7iSrBWYaFT57lgyktrYU9vIcKvliqoCe9CeVOTuZXYWcNnvMz3lMoEVu59eABlQV-pcZxXV-OcfJaoIAHyY_AjagCAUd1IndytoBBUJ97h5cqLxv6crRlP1rGX6VK/s640/BMEV1924.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thal Jetty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBl4zZFoP2xNZISTex3ZGLXHYECS3VS4FmXvxOHpGCdBTAWSfmpVustzJsuGhEt4KwcBn6lCim2h4bKX6f9ISufKvq50JTpX1L0szMg1Gx3JWkCKm28LTpj2UeXiLIGRUTrupg62htSgLN/s1600/IMG_4960.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Khanderi Fort" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBl4zZFoP2xNZISTex3ZGLXHYECS3VS4FmXvxOHpGCdBTAWSfmpVustzJsuGhEt4KwcBn6lCim2h4bKX6f9ISufKvq50JTpX1L0szMg1Gx3JWkCKm28LTpj2UeXiLIGRUTrupg62htSgLN/s640/IMG_4960.JPG" title="Khanderi Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khanderi Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzan4d5gElEGh882BuHXQv8Imr5i3vV1zNmaYvyTg3IpUEHVsbU5DuP7PBYUbcTWj-rVbl9MhesVwGFTVj4RBtc8wLEc1_64U2O2G0E6Gho6PVs1CluMs5RgOs2SHIcZuer5rl9U6n2I80/s1600/IMG_4988.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Underi Fort" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzan4d5gElEGh882BuHXQv8Imr5i3vV1zNmaYvyTg3IpUEHVsbU5DuP7PBYUbcTWj-rVbl9MhesVwGFTVj4RBtc8wLEc1_64U2O2G0E6Gho6PVs1CluMs5RgOs2SHIcZuer5rl9U6n2I80/s640/IMG_4988.JPG" title="Underi Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Underi Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
When Maratha began construction of the fort in the year 1660, British naval tried their level best to stop the work by warning and attacks. Maratha warrior Mayank Bhandari with 150 men began work during low tide and in Monsoon with small vessels. Britisher fails to stop the work as their large vessels unable to approach to Fort. Fort was built in the year 1679. After many battles, it went into hands of the British in 1818.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RboF60lHxI6fPkWEEtaIIFzCmQpEPUnKUmRfpBo2a143bQsTpGlLV4KG-lLF394JVPsyr1D6ZqjAG-_-vcbU_DNY0loGlDp_ZGX0rrYbzklyyt1HLJQCGepXZ6Eadw57J9nS8A7ui7Wl/s1600/IMG_4972.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Khanderi Fort Wall" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RboF60lHxI6fPkWEEtaIIFzCmQpEPUnKUmRfpBo2a143bQsTpGlLV4KG-lLF394JVPsyr1D6ZqjAG-_-vcbU_DNY0loGlDp_ZGX0rrYbzklyyt1HLJQCGepXZ6Eadw57J9nS8A7ui7Wl/s640/IMG_4972.JPG" title="Khanderi Fort Wall" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khanderi Fort Wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Once you landed on the Khanderi fort, start your visit from the Right side of Jetty. You can see Temple of Vetal where huge stone painted in Shendur (red colour) is worshipped as Vetala. Local says that Stone grows in size every year. You can see Shark bone inside Temple which is used to donate to God Vetala.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEZ04Uzmdi6EjfJuAPYeDSHFsfUU46AIXKRizVLqb2P3bD_gJkLumyCJbkBZZTRkQG8VsNFOxrQa8QdCQOQKNq659pw94ku-PVENLo8m2waUebc-snGpOwuIBcLMeUMkkgfhHGt1-NGBf/s1600/IMG_1871.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Temple of Vetal, Khanderi fort" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEZ04Uzmdi6EjfJuAPYeDSHFsfUU46AIXKRizVLqb2P3bD_gJkLumyCJbkBZZTRkQG8VsNFOxrQa8QdCQOQKNq659pw94ku-PVENLo8m2waUebc-snGpOwuIBcLMeUMkkgfhHGt1-NGBf/s640/IMG_1871.JPG" title="Temple of Vetal" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple of Vetal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There are series of Bastions on the fort and couple of Bastion have canons. You can see canons with cartwheel as well. It Feels sad when you noticed name written on wall and canons. Lighthouse was built in 1867 by Britisher on the fort. You can take a walk along the fort wall or take a half round and then climb stairs to Lighthouse.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kUo47QNTyWmi4y8zYImGtR7wB-i_v71z02z3Sv2ty1jsGrryQMJlUd1Dkv81FWn5jb8crzkNZqLU3-NkiB2KM98YYIzYf1tAFAjHjSRNWdOTWn1m4K03zfu0OyCEnPYdvB-G1E2ylLlQ/s1600/IMG_4966.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kUo47QNTyWmi4y8zYImGtR7wB-i_v71z02z3Sv2ty1jsGrryQMJlUd1Dkv81FWn5jb8crzkNZqLU3-NkiB2KM98YYIzYf1tAFAjHjSRNWdOTWn1m4K03zfu0OyCEnPYdvB-G1E2ylLlQ/s640/IMG_4966.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canon on Khanderi Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
You can see the metallic rock on the left side of stairs (Stairs from Jetty side and not from the back side of Fort) to Lighthouse. When you struck then large size rock with another stone, it creates metallic noise which is unique.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLvY1u88k1_L6W6nM0tXilmKjVJ41_NPJNHTeL9CN9ZDE5R7UbdS_nj1f2HXQAvr7VOgaKFy-wB9QE3hlwkLOgMtGE2eYSvKSHVsKAv6b0OSEn4wSbmx14Eb4rywjmrsQ5nuuvVC73B6p/s1600/IMG_4976.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLvY1u88k1_L6W6nM0tXilmKjVJ41_NPJNHTeL9CN9ZDE5R7UbdS_nj1f2HXQAvr7VOgaKFy-wB9QE3hlwkLOgMtGE2eYSvKSHVsKAv6b0OSEn4wSbmx14Eb4rywjmrsQ5nuuvVC73B6p/s640/IMG_4976.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Metallic Rock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There is no Food stall available so better to carry water and some snacks. Please do not leave your plastic/Food waste on the fort and keep historical places free from garbage. We returned to Akshi after Khanderi fort Visit.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguBUccfEfMHozYgWYaj2cEUlycOWawSIp1Ne-EnDucAmsZS-xRom9niz5aWPiUXs8UTrIytFDGh3LffV8VWciZnaqe4qURQaeMthjTNDykB6dE6uNK2AIhiJQaZSg2uVdkWkTzjQ25QXZ/s1600/IMG_4948.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguBUccfEfMHozYgWYaj2cEUlycOWawSIp1Ne-EnDucAmsZS-xRom9niz5aWPiUXs8UTrIytFDGh3LffV8VWciZnaqe4qURQaeMthjTNDykB6dE6uNK2AIhiJQaZSg2uVdkWkTzjQ25QXZ/s640/IMG_4948.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fisherman Boat leaving Jetty for work</td></tr>
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We check out from Hotel by 1 PM and went to Sanman restaurant for tasty seafood. Our next destination was Karmarkar Museum at Sasawane. It is sculpture museum of famous sculptor Padmashri V P Karmarkar. A museum has been set up at his house which is a 100-year-old house. His daughter-in-law (Sunanda Karmarkar) is taking care of this Museum. During childhood of Vinayak Karmarkar, he made a picture of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on the wall of Rama temple. British Collector (Otto Rothfield) saw the painting and offer education to him in J J art college in Mumbai. After acquiring the first rank, he worked in Kolkata and then went to England for further study. Sculpture of Horse ridden statues of Shivaji Maharaja made him famous across India. It was installed in Pune city at Shivajinagar. He created many sculptures which were installed in the varies part of India. You can view beautiful statue made between 1914 till 1964.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxEL0oHCPsu7cWP8uQEvqSOaITP0e0zh0HfJz7LtOI52UZhzGPrUhzi7F64GKdTKyyinjmY-BQDAVR7jAS2-clmS4AQEstDAroWoAgQf2WcOWJzGyVd0_bUzfBE1P2Ro104-dF6gXI8sM/s1600/IMG_1945.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxEL0oHCPsu7cWP8uQEvqSOaITP0e0zh0HfJz7LtOI52UZhzGPrUhzi7F64GKdTKyyinjmY-BQDAVR7jAS2-clmS4AQEstDAroWoAgQf2WcOWJzGyVd0_bUzfBE1P2Ro104-dF6gXI8sM/s640/IMG_1945.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karmarkar Museum</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDk8ZspG0OsZFNlZOpHHqAi1Kd3Hfto3UXgS9AYZz0s-a6eAUuW6Jl32uWMVjct3lTT09ql5KC6-54N5BG9NNoEGlrnKgn7s7fFFNpItTAeMNMC5g4k4FYocMGWSqCcRk7dyz8MIL_w4q/s1600/IMG_1950.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDk8ZspG0OsZFNlZOpHHqAi1Kd3Hfto3UXgS9AYZz0s-a6eAUuW6Jl32uWMVjct3lTT09ql5KC6-54N5BG9NNoEGlrnKgn7s7fFFNpItTAeMNMC5g4k4FYocMGWSqCcRk7dyz8MIL_w4q/s640/IMG_1950.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karmarkar Museum</td></tr>
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After our visit to a museum, we went to Kihim beach for sunset. Kihim Beach is around 10-11km from Alibag. Sandy Beach has a group of rocks on the seabed. Be careful while entering into a sea for swimming. Watersports, snacks stall on the beach is available. We witness Sunset from the beach and left Kihim for home.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kihim Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Kihim Beach</td></tr>
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We returned Pune via Pen - Expressway way and reached home safely by 11 PM.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Boat to Khanderi: INR 400/- (for 2 Person)</li>
<li>Water bottle: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Sanman: INR 683/-</li>
<li>Museum entry: INR 20/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Coffee at Kihim beach: INR 50/- for 2 coffee</li>
<li>Expressway Toll: INR 138/-</li>
<li>Dinner at Expressway: As per the order</li>
</ul>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Contact details for reference:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Kulpe farms: http://kulpefarmhouse.com/ </li>
<li>Boat ride to Khanderi fort from Thal village: +918390893279 </li>
<li>Sanman Restaurant, Alibag: 02141-222314</li>
</ul>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">My Other Travel Blogs from the nearby area</span></u></b><br />
<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2013/03/nagaon-kashid-beach-trip.html" target="_blank">Alibag-Nagaon-Kashid</a><br />
<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2018/01/offbeat-konkan-adgaon-velas-aagar.html" target="_blank">Roha-Murud-Adgaon-Velas agar</a><br />
<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2014/12/trip-to-phansad-wildlife-sanctuary-and.html" target="_blank">Phansad wildlife sanctuary-Kashid-Revdanda</a><br />
<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2012/03/weekend-trip-to-diveagar.html" target="_blank">Diveagar</a><br />
<a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2017/06/weekend-trip-to-diveagar-shrivardhan.html" target="_blank">Harihareshwar-Shrivardhan-Diveagar</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6frxg5mWXASjvMISgdtDJKT0cSjF9a9UNECJAbYSb_tiCfV520ctaLhAPwuBl_PZU-LSkqUYTUr1JhzRvp49zNblFegQPF1BMAN_xFB1I5BW650VVw4Fs71Y3zSSzCaVzY0feYbkAecR0/s1600/IMG_4869.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6frxg5mWXASjvMISgdtDJKT0cSjF9a9UNECJAbYSb_tiCfV520ctaLhAPwuBl_PZU-LSkqUYTUr1JhzRvp49zNblFegQPF1BMAN_xFB1I5BW650VVw4Fs71Y3zSSzCaVzY0feYbkAecR0/s640/IMG_4869.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.</div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com5Akshi, Maharashtra 402204, India18.6279738 72.88846979999993918.5978803 72.84812929999994 18.6580673 72.928810299999938tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-44127177034567043012018-01-20T23:00:00.000+05:302018-05-03T21:06:45.625+05:30Pune’s Bird Paradise - Bhigwan, Diksal bird watching in 2018<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I visit Bhigwan at least once a year for bird watching and this year was not an exception to my activity. I and Renuka decided to visit this place January 2018. Every year, I visit Diksal village from Bhigwan. I heard a lot about Kumbhargaon village which is developed as a bird sanctuary and professional people to handle all type of tourists. Due to lack of time, I decided to Kumbhargaon on this trip and then to Diksal some other day.<br />
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The plan was to spend 4-5 hours in Bhigwan (the main location is known as Diksal village) and come back home by late afternoon. My friends Himanshu, Ameya, Vishal, Sanat-Nirupa, and Ashutosh joined us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoKe4g4-UWDZg5WVsRoWPDyFT0r2VwpIJ0DJ06iRtnQHSBOZaZmj-Oz0XZqi1aUHkqV9J8S-CmLW_Isb8_IhNrSRRhUk0LhlX-qMOXaJQXkjehn91o9fYsTigp7vjvyROaZLerSWgLW9Z/s1600/CC6A0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1093" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoKe4g4-UWDZg5WVsRoWPDyFT0r2VwpIJ0DJ06iRtnQHSBOZaZmj-Oz0XZqi1aUHkqV9J8S-CmLW_Isb8_IhNrSRRhUk0LhlX-qMOXaJQXkjehn91o9fYsTigp7vjvyROaZLerSWgLW9Z/s640/CC6A0004.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greater Flamingo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">About Bhigwan Bird sanctuary:</span></u></b><br />
Bhigwan, a catchment area of Ujani Dam, is about 105 km from Pune on the Pune-Solapur highway (NH 9). An area of about 18000 hectares has been proposed as a sanctuary for migratory birds. It is an amazing place to see wetland migratory birds like Bar-Headed Goose, Greater Flamingo, Ruddy Shelduck, many spices of ducks and many more birds.<br />
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To reach Diksal village (near Bhigwan), the easy way is Pune – Hadapsar – Join Solapur highway – Drive your vehicle 100km from Pune on Highway – Do not use Bhigwan flyover – Take a left at Bhigwan square on the highway – Drive 3 to 3.5km – Take right for sanctuary. How to identify correct right turn is; you can spot water tank tower (yellow coloured) on that T junction on the left-hand side of the road.<br />
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GPS Location for Kumbhargaon: 18.263426, 74.803876<br />
GPS Location for Diksal: 18.295129, 74.806933<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_7eLseWZiAx-rttO_GjvUfZPgMRKk3NGQybTg-KpWILl1zLJihv31StiTyfjwSY4_pUChtRuQHHngWEbXFcKtHipGAN0Ge5LopdSOnmZeLSqRBzRMwZC3HPkQNIcjrpNCkkjdMtMrq32/s1600/CC6A0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_7eLseWZiAx-rttO_GjvUfZPgMRKk3NGQybTg-KpWILl1zLJihv31StiTyfjwSY4_pUChtRuQHHngWEbXFcKtHipGAN0Ge5LopdSOnmZeLSqRBzRMwZC3HPkQNIcjrpNCkkjdMtMrq32/s640/CC6A0049.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for take-off...Greater Flamingo</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Jan 2018: Bhigwan Bird sanctuary:</span></u></b><br />
As we had to cover around 105-110km so we decided to leave Pune before 5:30 AM and we managed to leave on time. Soon we touched Solapur highway. Road condition of the highway was excellent. Due to the wide and smooth road, we were able to reach Bhigwan in less than 2 hours. We reached Kumbhargaon after having breakfast at restaurant Anapurna. We have informed Datta Nagare for a boat ride. Soon we took a boat ride. Electric pole-wire was occupied by Whiskered Tern.<br />
We travelled towards Diksal village as all<br />
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Flamingos and other birds were landed there. While going there, I got few flight photos. Soon we approached towards Flamingo. Every year I visit Diksal and my expectation was to see birding activity near Kumbhargaon. Got to know that most of the time, boats from Kumbhargaon visit Diksal for Flamingos.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75IOH_IjksuJMXskg3tuNeS72_IRRLGmAJQpy7pBp23suR9fzXFnsKKLlgPv_BdnJpLmq3xuhnt8Uyu8NWyl3YXy1oQ3TFFOpq6F9yIyPZVh2rU43TeYiom8i_rYpJhdE4DSOzuG0twso/s1600/CC6A0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1018" data-original-width="1600" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75IOH_IjksuJMXskg3tuNeS72_IRRLGmAJQpy7pBp23suR9fzXFnsKKLlgPv_BdnJpLmq3xuhnt8Uyu8NWyl3YXy1oQ3TFFOpq6F9yIyPZVh2rU43TeYiom8i_rYpJhdE4DSOzuG0twso/s640/CC6A0057.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greater Flamingo</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnbBx6-DH0aGvuPt0t2ZkzIyQgqkBVMD-rlBbb35-b3pgFBdYiJzWD49hgdAaIBflyO7aufcEjMlesWZHv04bqmz7pXEQigsn2-MFadtJPOsXaHJChwgI93yXoocpEOsLgOzTklAq8DmHl/s1600/CC6A9995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnbBx6-DH0aGvuPt0t2ZkzIyQgqkBVMD-rlBbb35-b3pgFBdYiJzWD49hgdAaIBflyO7aufcEjMlesWZHv04bqmz7pXEQigsn2-MFadtJPOsXaHJChwgI93yXoocpEOsLgOzTklAq8DmHl/s640/CC6A9995.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greater Flamingo</td></tr>
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We spend around 1 hours watching their activity without disturbing them. By any chance, if they noticed us, they were just moving their position. A couple of times they flew away but again settled down close to our boat.Flamingo was accompanied by Seagulls, Gery Heron and Asian open billed stork.<br />
Grey heron is from Heron family and native throughout Europe, Africa and Asia. Wetland bird can be seen at Lake, river, pond and sometimes on the sea coast. The grey heron is large (meter tall) is the size and greyish white body with grey wings with black feathers on the flanks. They have White colour head and neck with Black neck strip and black crest.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELEwFen8sP1GQfXel4Cv_JzFe5_GDiE4Tb091Qbznly95Hp4b4mQiZ5szxBuYcbGVvFcuzPSRs9RyuXD_fCYObto5pbG3aCl2c-1QhCMcLbWFd_EeMjpgge-xGZ2gvraTvUAFzCPpM2uz/s1600/CC6A0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELEwFen8sP1GQfXel4Cv_JzFe5_GDiE4Tb091Qbznly95Hp4b4mQiZ5szxBuYcbGVvFcuzPSRs9RyuXD_fCYObto5pbG3aCl2c-1QhCMcLbWFd_EeMjpgge-xGZ2gvraTvUAFzCPpM2uz/s640/CC6A0005.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gery Heron</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRo7Kl3AnO1ZNW63hYYi_i4Og47Zq5AMKKm9Ecvk7FPb0-OUFWnGIUKQ8WOS4G63AU0kkTbcXay5EiD9YBJkFYJnwYF-SlCEWM7dAOOEGqcW-JvmTg34dh5gNKlKL0ihLeeS9aGLRvmrCb/s1600/CC6A0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1057" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRo7Kl3AnO1ZNW63hYYi_i4Og47Zq5AMKKm9Ecvk7FPb0-OUFWnGIUKQ8WOS4G63AU0kkTbcXay5EiD9YBJkFYJnwYF-SlCEWM7dAOOEGqcW-JvmTg34dh5gNKlKL0ihLeeS9aGLRvmrCb/s640/CC6A0011.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gery Heron flight</td></tr>
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Greater Flamingo is the largest species of flamingo. It is found in Africa, on the Indian subcontinent, in the Middle East and southern Europe. Average Life of Flamingo is 60 years. Greater Flamingos are pinkish white but Dark pink feathers with black feathers are covered underwings. You can see beautiful Display of pink colour during their Flight. Using its feet, the bird stirs up the mud, then sucks water through its bill and filters out small shrimp, seeds and blue-green algae. Greater Flamingo can be seen in Bhigwan but Lesser Flamingo observed rarely here.<br />
Asian Openbill is from Stork family. This Stork is found in the Indian subcontinent and in Southeast Asia. It is greyish white with glossy black wings and tail. Their short legs are pinkish grey and reddish in colour before breeding time. Stork has a gap between a bill which uses in the handling of snails and prey.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxMR183FPHsQhsM6aG-VCX4mm4tLznmg8Eoq8CmDiHc8aKz04fG4ZXFFV5rKQFiTxw5361M66y06TaAgpqNxWwbm6Ax5-d1iYj-RWnmxMkDkEQY5BIXHkHQ6ZTAxDkCT779vU3dTv85UY/s1600/CC6A0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="924" data-original-width="1600" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxMR183FPHsQhsM6aG-VCX4mm4tLznmg8Eoq8CmDiHc8aKz04fG4ZXFFV5rKQFiTxw5361M66y06TaAgpqNxWwbm6Ax5-d1iYj-RWnmxMkDkEQY5BIXHkHQ6ZTAxDkCT779vU3dTv85UY/s640/CC6A0025.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asian Open Billed Stork.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We left that place to spot other birds. We went to another side of catchment area by boat. We saw a huge group of the Painted Stork. We spend an hour and watched their morning activity, sun basking etc. Besides Flamingo, we spotted Woolly Necked Stork, Coot, ibis, bar-headed goose's, Ruddy Shelduck (aka Brahmini Duck), Northern Shoveler, Garganey Duck, northern pintail and much more.<br />
You can spot Glossy ibis, black head ibis and red napes ibis in the Bhigwan area. Ibis family is widely spread across Europe, Africa, Australia and Asia. All ibis have a long curved-down bill. Glossy ibis has a reddish brown body with glossy bottle-green wings. As the name suggests, black-headed ibis has black coloured head, neck and legs whereas white colour body. Red napes ibis is also known as Indian black Ibis or black ibis. It is large in size as compare to other ibises with the glossy dark black colour body. It has a crimson red colour patch on head.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyATUOdmwh-wNtcwjqQxzU8qeXh44rBgHKnzeFeyKgUKqLuZROYPl0746kvgyHOjT8HUstojuBQzpLqnUUZn1JC9DDmiE2ifFctqJVmCcMgWEdiTGPKGqBC7W6jV-Bb190j5qb6AwU6WmH/s1600/CC6A0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyATUOdmwh-wNtcwjqQxzU8qeXh44rBgHKnzeFeyKgUKqLuZROYPl0746kvgyHOjT8HUstojuBQzpLqnUUZn1JC9DDmiE2ifFctqJVmCcMgWEdiTGPKGqBC7W6jV-Bb190j5qb6AwU6WmH/s640/CC6A0068.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black-headed ibis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Ruddy shelduck in India commonly known as Brahminy Duck. Brahminy is colour shed and word is not related to any religion/Caste. The bird belongs to Anatidae family (a family which consist of Ducks, geese and Swans). It has a beautiful orange-brown body with white, black, glossy green colour on Wings. This is migratory bird and travel to India during winter for breeding. This bird mostly found in pair or pair groups as they believe in pair bonding. It has loud honking call. Duck prefer shallow water area or found on Bank of Water bodies or inland body of water. They can fly on high altitudes along with Bar-headed Goose.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNSMHaovnZjDFCqz-OTTB01pWP6y7CNJ8a-QvJ9srbusDZ8H0h3BV4QUn2RN1kzYyOV7fvgwtABda2C-Zk0B4O-F9ic9uumE1u_rkfuf916icw1AYXEMKIzBCRyxYd2FWfmh1_oNCYu3N0/s1600/CC6A0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNSMHaovnZjDFCqz-OTTB01pWP6y7CNJ8a-QvJ9srbusDZ8H0h3BV4QUn2RN1kzYyOV7fvgwtABda2C-Zk0B4O-F9ic9uumE1u_rkfuf916icw1AYXEMKIzBCRyxYd2FWfmh1_oNCYu3N0/s640/CC6A0072.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruddy Shelduck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Northern shoveler is also known as Shoveler duck. It is one of the commonly found duck in Europe and Asia (Winter time). Male has a dark green head, white breast and orange-Brown body. You can see multiple colours on wings such as white, glossy green, blue and brown. Female is in drab mottled brown colour. These ducks swim in a large group. Shoveler prefers to nest in a grassy area near an open freshwater body.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39R9F9sxMHqrtsyb_ISM35ewRVEESYSkbv20RyeDZgujABsUj7VYduxP9pBG8mymZxQGPdU_3o8bYvlncitE1H-fKPmIedUDJEG-ARouwSSpZd-OxUTv5k-gIDTuM-gig1Jpfgvh8SWFH/s1600/CC6A0097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1026" data-original-width="1600" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39R9F9sxMHqrtsyb_ISM35ewRVEESYSkbv20RyeDZgujABsUj7VYduxP9pBG8mymZxQGPdU_3o8bYvlncitE1H-fKPmIedUDJEG-ARouwSSpZd-OxUTv5k-gIDTuM-gig1Jpfgvh8SWFH/s640/CC6A0097.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Shoveler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We saw around 5-6 Bar Headed Goose in Flight. Saw a couple of Brahmin Duck pairs busy with their breakfast and some of them were resting. We kept a safe distance and I clicked a lot of Photos. We enjoyed for half an hour observing their actions. An astonishing fact about Bar Headed Goose is that they are one of the world's highest flying birds; they migrate over Himalayas (flying higher than 21000 ft.) to spend the winter in parts of India.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSO9_MDOX518v2AAYIlRQUOYm03mV7p8HEPip-fmFGWex-T6y6pmjN9cfs0UJKkWaEWsFmfkkWotW-6MFb48GAoJ6nT8aDGYeNU1I_L0Lq3HNAqh2nBz7b9Uf0bjRFqXsEO0qkj_0s4a99/s1600/IMG_8413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="1600" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSO9_MDOX518v2AAYIlRQUOYm03mV7p8HEPip-fmFGWex-T6y6pmjN9cfs0UJKkWaEWsFmfkkWotW-6MFb48GAoJ6nT8aDGYeNU1I_L0Lq3HNAqh2nBz7b9Uf0bjRFqXsEO0qkj_0s4a99/s640/IMG_8413.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bar Headed Goose</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Below are snaps were taken during my various visits to Bhigwan</u></b><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcvifPW-QdiUFU7liaRsvdA4TZANPPhj_JFriG1d7FaDksk5ViI5EPBrpPoTNzgVG6M903V9GeLRvYzWyA3zcbJscp6zArqEqJ_6heaO_Q_7u1EpWxXg_cwqa1hDq2_00U5rCx755ywYEP/s1600/CC6A0093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="1600" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcvifPW-QdiUFU7liaRsvdA4TZANPPhj_JFriG1d7FaDksk5ViI5EPBrpPoTNzgVG6M903V9GeLRvYzWyA3zcbJscp6zArqEqJ_6heaO_Q_7u1EpWxXg_cwqa1hDq2_00U5rCx755ywYEP/s640/CC6A0093.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruddy Shelduck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFZ8rd_NKwo1nBkAx75j1PkC0XohsjRIP6E9884HRXkLlFGeX-x6t6wDC0PQ89Lcl6xBnFIo8GqiIA78ixg7svO6Gnp3C9SkCxyB8SFzDpqTjpcPBtDPxSKkaGKGfY9GkXTcZGu8X_4Jl/s1600/CC6A0099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFZ8rd_NKwo1nBkAx75j1PkC0XohsjRIP6E9884HRXkLlFGeX-x6t6wDC0PQ89Lcl6xBnFIo8GqiIA78ixg7svO6Gnp3C9SkCxyB8SFzDpqTjpcPBtDPxSKkaGKGfY9GkXTcZGu8X_4Jl/s640/CC6A0099.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm Keeping watch on you...!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Common spoonbill is also known as Eurasian spoonbill and it belongs to Spoonbill family. The bird is white in colour with a white crest. Bill is of Black colour and a yellow spot at the end of the bill. The shape of Bill is similar to spoon shape.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9mucDgukHPkJlgxWMv4ZwkZ-5STRR099fXb-toSrwdBNRV87aaSjF_VBSF41bLH0YjEtsxkDr_yB70C9U9DIWz6-9uCOCmdEacIbyO4Dd9hp3wrMUa_YMmzv1TNLgMJSsF0CCkGIEixJ/s1600/CC6A0117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9mucDgukHPkJlgxWMv4ZwkZ-5STRR099fXb-toSrwdBNRV87aaSjF_VBSF41bLH0YjEtsxkDr_yB70C9U9DIWz6-9uCOCmdEacIbyO4Dd9hp3wrMUa_YMmzv1TNLgMJSsF0CCkGIEixJ/s640/CC6A0117.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spoon Bill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The painted stork is from the stork family. Their distinctive pink tertial feathers give them their name. This large stork has a heavy yellow beak with a down-curved tip. The head is bare and orange or reddish in colour. There is a distinctive black breast band with white scaly markings. Males and females appear alike but the males of a pair are usually larger than the female. The juveniles are a brownish plumage in colour.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHxZt-AX31RRQBjOMmKji0i0DywJ7jjQfEuAx225r0_WsbiUtoIBdz9oFND-el0bj5g3CB5OJ1-R8yxB0mEG5S_bJpY4-a8HYuQMytSu901a4QuPvgRuxyoGKMPhWY6sBb0gEa_lm85Bb/s1600/CC6A0198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHxZt-AX31RRQBjOMmKji0i0DywJ7jjQfEuAx225r0_WsbiUtoIBdz9oFND-el0bj5g3CB5OJ1-R8yxB0mEG5S_bJpY4-a8HYuQMytSu901a4QuPvgRuxyoGKMPhWY6sBb0gEa_lm85Bb/s640/CC6A0198.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wolly necked StorkPainteded Stork</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Purple moorhen is known as western swamphen. It is a Chicken sized bird with bright purple colour and red Bill. This is native Indian Bird and can be seen on freshwater bodies across India.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBtkymQz3rrh5CLcbjJNj-eJA-3voNVdRlS9s4I4FueNRJlRDy32JUTuoQcLLFMwe0KzKXQPbceSKVZG_WXVeAbG54nSuO18kXhUn6hYNgNNoywdsgJEMMmUcPtlh-DOtZtVPo6LKLnD5/s1600/CC6A9973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBtkymQz3rrh5CLcbjJNj-eJA-3voNVdRlS9s4I4FueNRJlRDy32JUTuoQcLLFMwe0KzKXQPbceSKVZG_WXVeAbG54nSuO18kXhUn6hYNgNNoywdsgJEMMmUcPtlh-DOtZtVPo6LKLnD5/s640/CC6A9973.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Moorhen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Woolly Necked Stork belongs to Stork family. The body is in deep crimson or wine red colour with a black colour skull cap. The neck is in white colour with a soft feather which gives the name as Woolly Necked Stork. It is also called as White-necked Stork. It is freshwater wetland bird found in Asia and Africa.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtEYcDsCzd3Vq1ZQq9dL9GUXWgBRuPMBidf7vYCSEZOH1McU0XD1j2Hp0uLaWFJUVNcPahLacQfwzhGv-QH0UXNmZOA0F-cS-z2-_NhzcsJA3OlNdbc8J9UUtLqXfab-r2nYZ0r0l0Iej/s1600/CC6A0218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtEYcDsCzd3Vq1ZQq9dL9GUXWgBRuPMBidf7vYCSEZOH1McU0XD1j2Hp0uLaWFJUVNcPahLacQfwzhGv-QH0UXNmZOA0F-cS-z2-_NhzcsJA3OlNdbc8J9UUtLqXfab-r2nYZ0r0l0Iej/s640/CC6A0218.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep discussion??? Wolly necked Stork</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrig9PtHH0VYDejoD579mUIs6PZF169fp5yjUgJA-XzBLOBtZys7m_8j3tKFb2dwGKD7owyv8c3ugJcktJi1uMhVSsOuDQnd1jEKZZlytYclA4fF-UTgUvh3ME0eSitc-kmNPcLfMn_B_/s1600/CC6A0225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrig9PtHH0VYDejoD579mUIs6PZF169fp5yjUgJA-XzBLOBtZys7m_8j3tKFb2dwGKD7owyv8c3ugJcktJi1uMhVSsOuDQnd1jEKZZlytYclA4fF-UTgUvh3ME0eSitc-kmNPcLfMn_B_/s640/CC6A0225.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted Stork</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibERO5dJyq1eVq94daMCJUd9ohJF7WdjCxOIBAcnTcIUgzSYxypSs-MirznzVp1QOYeBY_TeLQ7RC8VTUQSKEcXjft_vOK2qQzkOSD1hXTW8EdzlqdNo63fpW3UCHNgeq861KS34y57aM1/s1600/CC6A9984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="991" data-original-width="1600" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibERO5dJyq1eVq94daMCJUd9ohJF7WdjCxOIBAcnTcIUgzSYxypSs-MirznzVp1QOYeBY_TeLQ7RC8VTUQSKEcXjft_vOK2qQzkOSD1hXTW8EdzlqdNo63fpW3UCHNgeq861KS34y57aM1/s640/CC6A9984.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Shoveler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjaf6bDrv3BFeveHI8yajDboKm8NJ-V1R-WX10Rzuhsx7w9ZMES8OpWNZKjLZi9XBXhTUMCjacKaCv0nNfsk6NH-ozNpi8PUbeyyWTuK9gPL4Y7OHL-4ejvyeEDYG_uFs1eUkFF4fMB-7/s1600/CC6A9983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1026" data-original-width="1600" height="409" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjaf6bDrv3BFeveHI8yajDboKm8NJ-V1R-WX10Rzuhsx7w9ZMES8OpWNZKjLZi9XBXhTUMCjacKaCv0nNfsk6NH-ozNpi8PUbeyyWTuK9gPL4Y7OHL-4ejvyeEDYG_uFs1eUkFF4fMB-7/s640/CC6A9983.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to leave...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEBhXP2Zuv9jnXYi6BVGbkqaDPe94RzaM9EyP2rf_QGDMpK_TRZXz5TsnJOIQZhaNeErAPY9oHsMWnmTvOtavNGtwtPkQpzWHEDjqbzr231fWrMXsumUKgy172za8RHkEaIXxUpuBb6hZ/s1600/CC6A0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEBhXP2Zuv9jnXYi6BVGbkqaDPe94RzaM9EyP2rf_QGDMpK_TRZXz5TsnJOIQZhaNeErAPY9oHsMWnmTvOtavNGtwtPkQpzWHEDjqbzr231fWrMXsumUKgy172za8RHkEaIXxUpuBb6hZ/s640/CC6A0085.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Shoveler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car Petrol: INR 1500/- (Avg INR 67/Lit, Total distance cover by car was 230km)</li>
<li>Toll on NH-09: INR 30/- (Return toll)</li>
<li>Toll 2 on NH-09: INR 50/- (Return Toll)</li>
<li>Boat ride: INR 1200/- for boat (Normal chargers are INR 1400-1600/- per boat)</li>
<li>Dinner at hotel Kanchan: INR 440/- for couple</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Contact number:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Bharat (Boatman from Diksal): 9766292989.</li>
<li>Datta Nagare (Boatman from Kumbhargaon ): 8087767691.</li>
</ul>
<br />
I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-10270508445903280222018-01-01T23:00:00.000+05:302018-02-06T00:51:14.197+05:30Offbeat Konkan: Adgaon - Velas Aagar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We wanted to spend yearend away from City life but not at the crowded location. We both are doing regular cycling in the city so though came to mind like why not cycling along with a couple of offbeat locations. We planned 3 days trip to Konkan. we stayed at Roha which is our friend's hometown.</div>
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traveler for this trip was I and Wife Renuka.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fzXQTFKZYgEwe_402gC0QNd4dIu1ygrxFsTJj0a8tu9YD9BgxX3mpp_R91GAkOXk6TmxsIdPLE1fE1Hyij95vw1c66ta5pLnludzIhBhboV6dGEGKr3gw3Wk3htAh6rFEdgsktDzJjWe/s1600/IMG_9362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fzXQTFKZYgEwe_402gC0QNd4dIu1ygrxFsTJj0a8tu9YD9BgxX3mpp_R91GAkOXk6TmxsIdPLE1fE1Hyij95vw1c66ta5pLnludzIhBhboV6dGEGKr3gw3Wk3htAh6rFEdgsktDzJjWe/s640/IMG_9362.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travellers...</td></tr>
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<b style="color: #0b5394;"><u>About Roha and nearby places</u></b></div>
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Roha is the small city from Raigad district and starting station of Konkan Railway. It is located close to Mumbai Goa national highway. Roha is on the bank of Kundalika river which is a famous spot for river rafting near Pune/Mumbai.</div>
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Famous Konkan beaches like <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2013/03/nagaon-kashid-beach-trip.html" target="_blank">Alibag</a>, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2013/03/nagaon-kashid-beach-trip.html" target="_blank">Nagaon</a>, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2013/03/nagaon-kashid-beach-trip.html" target="_blank">Kashid</a>, Murud, and <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2017/06/weekend-trip-to-diveagar-shrivardhan.html" target="_blank">Diveagar </a>are close to Roha city. Roha can be a central location for trekkers as forts like Janjira, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2014/12/trip-to-phansad-wildlife-sanctuary-and.html" target="_blank">Revdanda</a>, <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2014/12/trip-to-phansad-wildlife-sanctuary-and.html" target="_blank">Korlai</a>, Avachitgad, Ghosalgad, Birwadi fort are close to the city. <a href="http://pritskulkarni.blogspot.in/2014/12/trip-to-phansad-wildlife-sanctuary-and.html" target="_blank">Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary</a> is few km away from Roha.</div>
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We decided to visit a couple of forts and offbeat beaches namely Adgaon and Velas Aagar.</div>
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To reach Roha, the route is Pune – Join Mulshi road from Chandani Chowk – Tamhini ghat – Kolad (Do not take a left turn of Nijampur MIDC area) – At Kolad, join highway and take left for Roha – Roha.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">30 December 2017: Pune - Roha</span></u></b></div>
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Our original plan was to leave Pune on 29 Dec Friday but due to personal priority, we left on 30 December by 10 AM. Our cycling plan was to explore north side on day 1 and south side of Roha on day 2. We altered it and planned to do cycling until Diveagar. We chose the route via Tahmini – Kolad. Road condition in Tamhini was horrible. We had our lunch in Viraj hotel at Mulashi village. After 4 hours of journey, we reached Roha. Our friend's parents stay in Roha and we opt to stay at their place.</div>
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After having a coffee break, we left Roha for fort/beach visit. Our Next destination was Revdanda. After crossing the bridge on river Kundlika, we entered in Revdanda village. It is a small village famous for Beach and Revdanda beach fort.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOLqgf-Mgtr3rZcHfWwktIHZzATuiutfCYLNogAcHFg6mspyu97rLpIFlm9ZneKSr5Ot4odc7ndZNGRfzeLEVoWxSKQHyCONc7R15muPg1BL6WAYzEO00jtUK5zxjpCP6LlYe-BduKpzxd/s1600/Phansad+1123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="955" data-original-width="1600" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOLqgf-Mgtr3rZcHfWwktIHZzATuiutfCYLNogAcHFg6mspyu97rLpIFlm9ZneKSr5Ot4odc7ndZNGRfzeLEVoWxSKQHyCONc7R15muPg1BL6WAYzEO00jtUK5zxjpCP6LlYe-BduKpzxd/s640/Phansad+1123.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Revdanda beach and Fort wall... Photo clicked by me in the year 2016</td></tr>
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Revdanda Fort was built in the year 1528 by Portuguese whereas prior to that, they built a factory in the year 1516. Later they built a wall for the factory and the construction of the fort. In July 1683, the Marathas attempted an attack on Revdanda. The Marathas besieged the fort but had to withdraw when the Portuguese attacked Fonda. In 1806, the British took over the charge of Revdanda. Angres family conquered the fort in 1817 but the British got the fort back in 1818.</div>
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This beautiful beach fort consists of strong fortification walls holding sea waves, Bastions, Cannon and 7 floored watch tower (Mainly known as Saatkhani i.e. 7 story tower). The circumference of the fort is around 5 km. The fortification wall surrounds the entire village. Most of the land inside the fort is the private property of villagers hence it became difficult to explore the entire fort. Near the watch tower, you can see 4-5 cannons. On the right side of the tower, you can see the grave of Portuguese queen. It has a symbol of Portuguese emperor which can be seen easily. After exploring fort area, we went to the beach.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0uqdvJn7lQlZTD8Zx3adnitYba5h-J9Ls0nmHj6Q_8YR8zfUbIAjxeOAzdHQ0YWvdcxe2XcJyoS8zNQFylsNUS6BIOJR66D_B8r94z8OO-rC599N1WVeiP9tmaTrtjHdoJIKjlRKWkotx/s1600/Phansad+1137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0uqdvJn7lQlZTD8Zx3adnitYba5h-J9Ls0nmHj6Q_8YR8zfUbIAjxeOAzdHQ0YWvdcxe2XcJyoS8zNQFylsNUS6BIOJR66D_B8r94z8OO-rC599N1WVeiP9tmaTrtjHdoJIKjlRKWkotx/s640/Phansad+1137.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saatkhani Tower</td></tr>
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We spent some time on the beach and then witnessed the beautiful sunset effect as Sunset was behind Korlai Fort. Watching the sun sinking into the sea at the horizon spreading a red tint all over the sky…. my favorite activity on the beach. After sunset, we had some snacks on the beach. Friend's Parents joined us and we had a good time. We came to Roha for dinner and had rest.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6qZegwZIIo7EvWmslBcKI9DeDnQSQmHQbS3jF55mZyqITTat3O6Gd4vkm8dXUyTXyeIiSbZd1kHY13YBIoezxvxFgEYaw_0ILnxJ-NIR_S_Zf_HUGgZfqZkFCHm3Xw9pP1B9je62NPia/s1600/IMG_4653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6qZegwZIIo7EvWmslBcKI9DeDnQSQmHQbS3jF55mZyqITTat3O6Gd4vkm8dXUyTXyeIiSbZd1kHY13YBIoezxvxFgEYaw_0ILnxJ-NIR_S_Zf_HUGgZfqZkFCHm3Xw9pP1B9je62NPia/s640/IMG_4653.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Revdanda Beach</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span style="color: #0b5394;">GPS Locations:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Roha: 18.436718, 73.122674</li>
<li>Revdanda Fort: 18.546939, 72.924907</li>
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<br /><b><span style="color: #0b5394;"><u>Expenses:</u></span></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car petrol: INR 2000/-</li>
<li>Lunch at Viraj, Mulashi: INR 320/- (M Papad, Veg dish, Naans, Line soda)</li>
<li>Coffee: INR 50/- for 2</li>
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">31 December 2017: Roha - Murud - Adgaon - Velas agar - Roha</span></u></b></div>
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We woke up by 5 AM and left Roha at 6 AM. As road condition to Murud via Kashid was not in good position hence we took the route as Roha - Tareghar - Tambadi - Gpalwat - Nagshet - Murud. We parked our car in Murud and took Cycle out of Cycle ride.</div>
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Our cycling tour route was Murud - Dighi vai ferry - Adgaon beach - Velas Agar beach - Murud via ferry. I'm used to for such terrain for cycling whereas Renu did most of the cycling around Pune city. The entire route was full of ups and downs which required good stamina and focus. In few km of cycling, we climbed small ghat. After the small climb, we took a small break to enjoy the view of Janjira fort view. we have been to Janjira fort a few years back so we decided to skip the fort. Rajapuri is the village from where you can visit fort via small sailboat ride.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqE63Zs5k2Zf7k7UCGCu2KqaBekQ4alc5Pg5xXG_1b1IFZCZv-ctQQr_oQSUQPJJtIcsTB5zM4anXsK19LPbYf7rHaABTzNJfxRJmuIQeek5dmjhyphenhyphenfj8IeahleMBAUECdCLNdtXQPvMmc/s1600/IMG_9341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqE63Zs5k2Zf7k7UCGCu2KqaBekQ4alc5Pg5xXG_1b1IFZCZv-ctQQr_oQSUQPJJtIcsTB5zM4anXsK19LPbYf7rHaABTzNJfxRJmuIQeek5dmjhyphenhyphenfj8IeahleMBAUECdCLNdtXQPvMmc/s400/IMG_9341.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJ8pUewsKYaNTCeLcYOWZq57_j9Ud-IGrAX4ngjeHi8qt9ERXn0ItRNdQud9bKXexkEUKQxtPLLBKvWN1-YQnWrOB1oY4LUzB2dFJvOfI0sxg30M4_lA9PdQ4x5hguUB6XqSt3V_oiLJu/s1600/IMG_9345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJ8pUewsKYaNTCeLcYOWZq57_j9Ud-IGrAX4ngjeHi8qt9ERXn0ItRNdQud9bKXexkEUKQxtPLLBKvWN1-YQnWrOB1oY4LUzB2dFJvOfI0sxg30M4_lA9PdQ4x5hguUB6XqSt3V_oiLJu/s400/IMG_9345.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The fort was originally built in 15th century on a smaller scale by a local Maratha-Fisherman Chieftain- Ram Patil to protect his people from pirates/ thieves and was known as “Medhekot". Siddi commanders Pir Khan, who came with three ships armed with necessary weapons and soldiers and captured the fort. Pir Khan was succeeded by Burhan Khan, who demolished the original fort and built an impregnable much bigger, 22 acre, stone fort sometime in between 1567 and 1571. The fort was called 'JazeereMahroob Jazeera ' which in Arabic means an Island. Siddi was not won by any war but by breaking trust and offering liquor to Ram Patil. Latter on Siddi king forcefully converted Ram Patil to Islamic and when he opposed then he killed by Siddi. Latter many local Koli and Hindu’s was killed who opposed their establishment. Shivaji’s all attempts to capture Janjira fort failed due to one reason or the other. When Sambhaji also failed, he built another island fort, known as Kansa or Padmadurg, just 9kms north of Janjira. You can see rocky bridge during low tide at Rajpuri which was an unsuccessful but great attempt by Sambhaji. The Janjira state came to an end after 1947.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKKOz-zWHKHNJLCWNnzT9VHX1BVJqnYmy4oDu6aOKoqVh1exlUQDXrSDHx47H8tT9xRTbpSkKRtLv1GruBvDOPVqSTdsTE2xI-gcN3ut5FphL5_l2ckSfBPiOAblXRP8GJWxXpHIVw7knG/s1600/IMG_4661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKKOz-zWHKHNJLCWNnzT9VHX1BVJqnYmy4oDu6aOKoqVh1exlUQDXrSDHx47H8tT9xRTbpSkKRtLv1GruBvDOPVqSTdsTE2xI-gcN3ut5FphL5_l2ckSfBPiOAblXRP8GJWxXpHIVw7knG/s640/IMG_4661.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Janjira Fort view from Top</td></tr>
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The fortification was amazing and very strongly builds to protect against the enemy. Fort has 19 rounded bastions. Three story bastions were beautifully constructed. History says that there was 572 cannon to protect the fort. You can see India’s 3rd largest cannon named Kalal-Bangadi. Other highlights from the fort are 6 stories place (now only 3 floors are left), Balekila, Queen Lake, quarters, mosque etc.The main entrance of Janjira Fort is adorned with a stone carving, which illustrates six elephants trapped by a single tiger. This carving is believed to be a symbol of the bravery of the Siddi rulers.</div>
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We kept paddling till Agardanda. you can visit Khokari Tombs after Rajapuri. There are 3 stone Tombs (around 500 years old) belongs to the early ruler of Janjira. Largest Tomb is of Siddi Surul Khan who was chief of Janjira from 1707 to 1734. Other two smaller tombs are of Sidi Kasim, commonly known as Yakut Khan and his brother Khairiyat Khan who was in command of Janjira. Tombs are built in the Indo-Saracenic style and restored by the Archaeological Survey of India.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP_hu_iBymkJr_6wOiRDkSpALTb14uxTHXOyws4scrfxvyVfBnV-esVorwertKUOFyiCiEOSupRroYif6U5ilFCWjMPGWVIJr0hNgnfn7DRclddckYdBiMEAj6mPeAgKqUy1xlzwc4Ye9y/s1600/IMG_4681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP_hu_iBymkJr_6wOiRDkSpALTb14uxTHXOyws4scrfxvyVfBnV-esVorwertKUOFyiCiEOSupRroYif6U5ilFCWjMPGWVIJr0hNgnfn7DRclddckYdBiMEAj6mPeAgKqUy1xlzwc4Ye9y/s640/IMG_4681.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khokari Tombs</td></tr>
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We put our cycles on the ferry and cross the creek. we were hungry and local suggested us to have Tasty Samosa / Vada pav at Dighi Jetty. I forgot the name of the person but he runs a small shop and sells only these 2 Items. It was freshly fried and tasty. We took a right tern for Adgaon. This route consists of two steep climb ghats. I was pretty much comfortable and Renu did a great job (in spite of less cycling experience) with a couple of pit stops. Sun was dominating the sky whereas cool breeze from sea line trying to make us feel fresh on cycle. The entire route is parallel to the coast. When we took a small break on the top of Ghat, few locals from nearby village gather around us. They offer us tea/coffee/snacks (Without expecting any money) when they got to know we are exploring a nearby area of Cycles. We faced few questions typically asked any long distance cyclist during tours like a geared cycle?how long you ride?Speed? tires are tubeless? is it costly etc? After a small break, we continued our journey and crossed the second Ghat as well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjny9KI1N64fmjgHQ-a_8-mw9nMeHHM6zsR-Dbv9rOj32s9FQc3ey2V3-rs3aDb8iE0Pge9d2cOnFHY1IKFin3BvXS53Q5W4BudG4_h7fLInJRWu_1BuvCwqN1DAjUCz8jOOODmYuT-9MsB/s1600/IMG_9373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjny9KI1N64fmjgHQ-a_8-mw9nMeHHM6zsR-Dbv9rOj32s9FQc3ey2V3-rs3aDb8iE0Pge9d2cOnFHY1IKFin3BvXS53Q5W4BudG4_h7fLInJRWu_1BuvCwqN1DAjUCz8jOOODmYuT-9MsB/s640/IMG_9373.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We at Adgaon beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpWy5LbiBU_PyBn0Bu4zT-MSNpQD7mtR4sXZi8y3XGSc9qyoNvt9ESSZbWhH4wR8y_9gIGS2IRSenOpRB2EBR-hCxuhyphenhyphen3BQ3MwRbusxk0uCPtsvGM1RehemooW_2TJ84bYh4witHiSWlw/s1600/IMG_9380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpWy5LbiBU_PyBn0Bu4zT-MSNpQD7mtR4sXZi8y3XGSc9qyoNvt9ESSZbWhH4wR8y_9gIGS2IRSenOpRB2EBR-hCxuhyphenhyphen3BQ3MwRbusxk0uCPtsvGM1RehemooW_2TJ84bYh4witHiSWlw/s640/IMG_9380.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adgaon Beach</td></tr>
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we reached our first beach destination, Adgaon beach. It is a small curved beach. It is not popular in tourist hence quite clan and claim place. We took our cycles on the beach and spend more than an hour. On the north end, you can see some interesting rock cuts made by Sea waves during high tides. There is a small beach (which is part of Adgaon beach) besides Adgaon but it is mainly used to park fishing boats. We saw a family of Dolphins very close to sea shore which was an unexpected bonus.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZkwDUNt04eS86nkbtmMRR77ZawVIi6KlnNI9dOyXE15Eh_l-Ipgjp85UTZX1atmWYstGdBZa0qxwNpaExrm1MF__TR0UEhXNnk9P0cIBx7xlj7Xl2_XLOifa-Onvs-GV_k1RNRd0D2KgR/s1600/IMG_4667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Adgaon Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZkwDUNt04eS86nkbtmMRR77ZawVIi6KlnNI9dOyXE15Eh_l-Ipgjp85UTZX1atmWYstGdBZa0qxwNpaExrm1MF__TR0UEhXNnk9P0cIBx7xlj7Xl2_XLOifa-Onvs-GV_k1RNRd0D2KgR/s640/IMG_4667.JPG" title="Adgaon Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adgaon Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4o4xiAD_VpJ_5oHFVSv5I-Z2SgfBEWGjmHdPnknGFaYT5ptK7AuYwKIhD2ur0HSHYi-5cdMYf9rS9xKxbbfy0LS_ycu3cofS2vGsl4VKY8aPaJjx7-CDaudoTsGEHHQGNbTIl1HrBKPl/s1600/IMG_4671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Adgaon Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4o4xiAD_VpJ_5oHFVSv5I-Z2SgfBEWGjmHdPnknGFaYT5ptK7AuYwKIhD2ur0HSHYi-5cdMYf9rS9xKxbbfy0LS_ycu3cofS2vGsl4VKY8aPaJjx7-CDaudoTsGEHHQGNbTIl1HrBKPl/s640/IMG_4671.JPG" title="Adgaon Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adgaon Beach</td></tr>
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We were hungry and ask locals for meal arrangements. We had a homemade meal which was average in taste. We left Adgaon for further journey. Our next destination was Velas Aagar (Do not confuse with Velas from Dapoli area). The road was flat and parallel to the coastal line. We reached Velas Aagar which was another less visited beach. Beach was clean with some rock formations on the beach. There is small creek at the end of the beach and you can see the famous Diveagar beach on the other side of Creek. We had a small break at the beach before starting the further journey.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoOL7RCEb-SVWLnNG5futTZSVWASe_2KqM-wpgxsQvAO_C1bqC2Hm612w36FWBOGDMuDMDZh4RB6hQSdA8TUozaOBL1ptuR40awuhtzUhphFEU_Ni2bU49TKQjHiecEoew6YnnK4hDnfr/s1600/IMG_4679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Velas Aagar Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoOL7RCEb-SVWLnNG5futTZSVWASe_2KqM-wpgxsQvAO_C1bqC2Hm612w36FWBOGDMuDMDZh4RB6hQSdA8TUozaOBL1ptuR40awuhtzUhphFEU_Ni2bU49TKQjHiecEoew6YnnK4hDnfr/s640/IMG_4679.JPG" title="Velas Aagar Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velas Aagar Beach</td></tr>
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Diveagar beach was heavily crowded (we spotted it from Velas Aagar) hence we decided to skip Diveagar and start return journey. For the return journey, we came from Diveagar-Dighi route which was quite flat as compare to Adgaon side road. We reached Dighi before 2.30 PM.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnPSrJrdDJajCVqkH3YArR_0Sph-LvVE1SVwiphUOWaqES7V897Ik5IuL6_OWvv_6a8DVz3hwDwOT8BtFb-djSGsPpmiYTbC-4Bza0xVMESJGE8kIdM9zjhL4hGcrRpm4M4b-Ja4C93l5/s1600/IMG_9403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnPSrJrdDJajCVqkH3YArR_0Sph-LvVE1SVwiphUOWaqES7V897Ik5IuL6_OWvv_6a8DVz3hwDwOT8BtFb-djSGsPpmiYTbC-4Bza0xVMESJGE8kIdM9zjhL4hGcrRpm4M4b-Ja4C93l5/s640/IMG_9403.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We got to know that ferry was shut down due to low tide and next ferry is at 5 PM. We settle down at jetty and after some time they arranged small ferry to transport few bikes and people. As we were on cycle, they got preference to board the small ferry. We crossed the creek and continued out cycling till Murud.<br />
Before leaving in the morning, we requested Aana Gupte (we parked our car on his property with permission) for bath arrangement after cycle ride. After getting fresh, we spend time on the Murud beach which was quite crowded considering year-end evening.<br />
We witness 2017s last Sunset from Murud beach. We mounted our cycles on the car rack and left for Roha. For the return journey, we choose Nandgaon - Kashid - Roha route. We visited Ganesh temple from Nandgaon which is known as Sidhi Vinayak Ganesh temple. This temple has been in existence since 1036 AD. Myth has it that panchang (Hindu Calendar) is blessed by this Ganesha.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9f5s24HH11W2D7-q24m7pp8wKogpsLqalgt4E4YSZpFtOX1BZqvy7S6uZnUJHeV8jX9RgmWia9i54Ny-kloMeZfKYxFYQvVIOomre1AlyBEFRXnAzw6iOq7DxqeXLIrQ8fIdBFOYS92h1/s1600/IMG_4691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9f5s24HH11W2D7-q24m7pp8wKogpsLqalgt4E4YSZpFtOX1BZqvy7S6uZnUJHeV8jX9RgmWia9i54Ny-kloMeZfKYxFYQvVIOomre1AlyBEFRXnAzw6iOq7DxqeXLIrQ8fIdBFOYS92h1/s640/IMG_4691.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last Sunset of the Year 2017...Murud Beach</td></tr>
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We reached in Roha for dinner and welcomed the year 2018.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_F38MzleAHN9_oWAaBg73dusPmrw7mVW6dfNvnJzhJroN-U0Rl8KuNROJDS38XTJ5dgUqj-qkP8laCySvb1vjw1SK_lU8dwxhgpDfbBvfChNwR4nI0yy-yCKHtk16Ihe532_9A5R-ufn/s1600/IMG_9461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_F38MzleAHN9_oWAaBg73dusPmrw7mVW6dfNvnJzhJroN-U0Rl8KuNROJDS38XTJ5dgUqj-qkP8laCySvb1vjw1SK_lU8dwxhgpDfbBvfChNwR4nI0yy-yCKHtk16Ihe532_9A5R-ufn/s640/IMG_9461.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome, 2018...!!!</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><u>GPS Location:</u></b></span><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Murud Beach: 18.326509, 72.955985</li>
<li>Khokari Tombs: 18.301574, 72.981449</li>
<li>Adgaon Beach: 18.223062, 72.947294</li>
<li>Velas Aagar: 18.203831, 72.972366</li>
<li>Dighi Jetty: 18.263058, 72.973724</li>
<li>Sidhi Vinayak temple, Nandgaon: 18.387098, 72.928926</li>
</ul>
<br /><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><u>Expenses:</u></b></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Murud Parking: INR 40/-</li>
<li>Ferry boat: INR 42/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Cycle by Boat: INR 22/- for 2 cycles</li>
<li>Vada pav n Samosa: INR 40/- (4 Items)</li>
<li>Lunch: INR 390/- (Veg thali @150, Fish thali @250 and 2 water bottles)</li>
<li>Coconut water: INR 50/-</li>
<li>Ferry boat: INR 42/- for 2 person</li>
<li>Cycle by Boat: INR 22/- for 2 cycles</li>
<li>Bath in Murud: INR 60/-</li>
<li>Chaat: INR 75/- (3 dishes)</li>
<li>Water bottle: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Jeera Soda: INR 30/-</li>
<li>Cake: INR 320/</li>
<li>Cold drink: INR 80/-</li>
</ul>
<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">1st Jan 2018: Roha - Pali - Mahad - Pune</span></u></b><br />
We woke up a bit late and spend some time in Roha near Kundalika river bank. We left Rohan by 10 AM. We choose Pali - Khopoli - expressway route as Tahmini route was in horrible condition. Considering new year day, we decided to take a quick stop at Pali and Mahad for Lord Ganapati Darshan.<br />
Pali Ganapati temple is known by name as Ballaleshwar Ganapati. It is 8th Ganesh from Ashtavinayak (8 Ganapati temples) temples. We had Darshan and moved to next place. Our last destination from the trip was Mahad Ganapati temple. This is 7th Ganapati from Ashtavinayak and known by name Varadvinayak.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Pali parking: INR 30/-</li>
<li>Mahad Parking: INR 20/-</li>
<li>Expressway Toll: INR 138/-</li>
<li>Lunch on expressway: INR 385/-</li>
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For the return journey, we preferred Khopoli – Expressway road and reached Pune safely by 5 PM.<br />
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I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<span style="color: red;"><b>PriteshKulkarni</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><b>Pune</b></span></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-58196441388572770072018-01-01T22:00:00.000+05:302018-02-10T16:14:14.176+05:30First 5 honoured Ganapati (Marathi: Manache Ganapati) of Pune<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have started writing small blogs on places to visit from Pune city. This Blog is to give a fair idea on Honoured Ganapati from Pune city.<br />Here is a small virtual trip to Pune’s First 5 honored Ganapati with some basic information.<br /><br /> Ganesh Chaturthi was being celebrated as a public event in Pune since the times of Shivaji (1630–1680), the founder of the Maratha Empire. In 1893, Ganesh Festival on large public scale was started by Bal Gangadhar Tilak (first leader of the Indian Independence Movement) from Pune city. He transformed the household worshipping of Ganesha into a grand public event.<br /> The intention behind Ganesh festival was to bridge the gap between Brahmins and 'non-Brahmins' and find a context in which to build a new grassroots unity between all cast. Also, intention was to gather people sharing similar ideas and exchange thoughts to deal with the British ruler.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWvFUer9cm7c1p0XgsVNtrYGfw_O-nrTWdlfgs8u1yPmhD4BIZfHFVum2rkGiHnRd_V6gqT2nfJODfsjvMhMQtziYRHlNhUzej_9YDr6IY5tT9jOV2wjnDCLL-xG_sfquKXlsY_dFE78HY/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWvFUer9cm7c1p0XgsVNtrYGfw_O-nrTWdlfgs8u1yPmhD4BIZfHFVum2rkGiHnRd_V6gqT2nfJODfsjvMhMQtziYRHlNhUzej_9YDr6IY5tT9jOV2wjnDCLL-xG_sfquKXlsY_dFE78HY/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kasaba Ganapati</td></tr>
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Among the thousands of Lord Ganapati Pandals in Pune city, Kasaba Ganapati, Tambdi Jogeshwari, Guruji Talim, Tulshi bag and Keshariwada Ganapati are on top places as first five holds the honors of Pune city. Shrimant Dagadushet Halwai Ganapati is richest and famous Ganapati in Pune.<br /><br />Photos of First 5 honored Ganapati clicked in the year 2015-2016.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">1. First Ganpati of Honor in Pune - Kasaba Ganapati</span></u></b><br /> The Kasba Ganapati is the presiding deity (Gramadevata - Its Sanskrit term for the presiding deity or guardian deity in Hindu villages, towns, and cities. It is derived from the words grāma “village” and devatā “deity”) of Pune. The temple was commissioned by Jijabai, Mother of Shivaji Maharaj (founder of the Maratha Empire).<br /><br />Established in the year 1893, Mandal is gracing the first place in immersion procession since 1894</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCAIpk85wjS5aJMDs1WRJU9JT10x6iWL-mBGEAYpzuV-0gFqP-8Megpp6WpkGjSbGwOLuaSBI7_9d8j9d-hgLimNPa4Q4md4my8O4uBqplmiRTmBLFwg06A5bJhko8zgNXbjtDbOgS8kO0/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="960" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCAIpk85wjS5aJMDs1WRJU9JT10x6iWL-mBGEAYpzuV-0gFqP-8Megpp6WpkGjSbGwOLuaSBI7_9d8j9d-hgLimNPa4Q4md4my8O4uBqplmiRTmBLFwg06A5bJhko8zgNXbjtDbOgS8kO0/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kasaba Ganapati</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">2. Second Ganpati of Honor in Pune - Tambadi Jogeshwari</span></u></b><br /> Second Ganpati of Honor in Pune. It is famous and is situated in the heart of the city. The idol of Lord Ganesh has its uniqueness. From last so many years they are using the idol of the same kind which has resemblance of elephants of Africa. In the eleven days of puja, various kinds of events take place which are of social interest and are organized by keeping in mind the same aim that Late Lokmanya Tilak was having in his mind.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHAPm9ACUOHW_ts-AMJydhJ_Tj4uMq3v6n1hiaf3k9XJiOgTdTA8ME2MRAZcOdBwElWbQA70tqLAsJkr9EaiLY4sAq1lWTePktj_eRxTy2zH09SsoUz8OjHvJV3tc0VMk9_KnmUZ8IBAn/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHAPm9ACUOHW_ts-AMJydhJ_Tj4uMq3v6n1hiaf3k9XJiOgTdTA8ME2MRAZcOdBwElWbQA70tqLAsJkr9EaiLY4sAq1lWTePktj_eRxTy2zH09SsoUz8OjHvJV3tc0VMk9_KnmUZ8IBAn/s640/4.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tambadi Jogeshwari</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGBTTPP_HDflINuyjyOUYXClLPWce3y1On7mjECz7FbR0XeXu3vLxMQXo6-t8LaPf_Nb_y5EyyXC_hwmeoO0giBWeFkrfqGBeeSe-QiIdimDGD1mv4RoaMb_HKnS79FOg39THAZ_lpB2b/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGBTTPP_HDflINuyjyOUYXClLPWce3y1On7mjECz7FbR0XeXu3vLxMQXo6-t8LaPf_Nb_y5EyyXC_hwmeoO0giBWeFkrfqGBeeSe-QiIdimDGD1mv4RoaMb_HKnS79FOg39THAZ_lpB2b/s640/3.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tambadi Jogeshwari</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">3. Third Ganpati of Honor in Pune - Guruji Talim</span></u></b><br /> Third Ganpati of Honor in Pune. This Mandal was established in 1887 even before Late Lokmanya Tilak started this festival. It was established as a symbol of Hindu Muslim unity. First mandal who celebrated its centenary in Pune.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Ut-LgnUk4YyRsi44clPsb3Xr9O2djxN522GAeuwjXj6tOKk8XTh9Dwii4w2RQIDs0ic0lqLrhW1gdLzG4PH0ZyR-F_f2pYKyBrS-vtEN6ydFhAoKk4NyHYce-2fov8qSfBQJVuiDez9U/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="682" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Ut-LgnUk4YyRsi44clPsb3Xr9O2djxN522GAeuwjXj6tOKk8XTh9Dwii4w2RQIDs0ic0lqLrhW1gdLzG4PH0ZyR-F_f2pYKyBrS-vtEN6ydFhAoKk4NyHYce-2fov8qSfBQJVuiDez9U/s640/5.jpg" width="454" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guruji Talim</td></tr>
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<br /><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><u>4. Fourth Ganpati of Honor in Pune – Tulashi Bag Ganapati</u></b></span><br /> Fourth Ganpati of Honor in Pune. This is the old and famous Ganesh mandal in Pune. This mandal is known for the size of the Ganesh idol. This is the first mandal to make a fiberglass idol of Ganpati. This Ganapati is located in Tulasi Bag area which is the heart of the city. This area is known as Pune oldest market built by Peshwa (the year 1700-1761)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCRLR4vCnw8aCUMHtWEi36Hb1X3nRb7X_AwJYl9G3fPHbYgvLKtf6V51IF3Fd2uKpmxaHXhoQiFzl6bRpkX84YOz9ry_Wf9_NDL05ULJQ_KRaY4-VEdTE0I0b0pAYQjzh-QE2KPtMl5Lbu/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="960" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCRLR4vCnw8aCUMHtWEi36Hb1X3nRb7X_AwJYl9G3fPHbYgvLKtf6V51IF3Fd2uKpmxaHXhoQiFzl6bRpkX84YOz9ry_Wf9_NDL05ULJQ_KRaY4-VEdTE0I0b0pAYQjzh-QE2KPtMl5Lbu/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulasi Bag Ganapati</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">5. Fifth Ganpati of Honor in Pune – Kesariwada Ganapati</span></u></b><br /> Late Lokmanya Tilak established this idol in the year 1893. It is located in Kesari wada (wada means palace/big house where many families can stay together) which is a house of of Lokmanya Tilak . This Mandal vows to take up social and cultural undercurrents of the society. Organizes shows of renowned artists and speeches of great personalities during the festival.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO1NhKS5CP0zFb1_iYht9wn6yh3n_vTCuoE2j5Hv-WmmcdKjxF2Ap4WiOfB_r8e7DJu5qCsMAgS14M6PKRgD0F4JaWbG8WVeFb5ym6DGxI4-4t1XRMziOEeNSZ6lYtw7NT2CvQ7Xy1suuF/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="960" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO1NhKS5CP0zFb1_iYht9wn6yh3n_vTCuoE2j5Hv-WmmcdKjxF2Ap4WiOfB_r8e7DJu5qCsMAgS14M6PKRgD0F4JaWbG8WVeFb5ym6DGxI4-4t1XRMziOEeNSZ6lYtw7NT2CvQ7Xy1suuF/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kesari Wada Ganapati</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50uLuStT90kYmjpoB8E_5UuSr5OgphfHKtN8dQVe9Qv9Vfqhe1ORrzxLDuEpEBuC6-SSlRR7A71FCzdhh2YhHJYCThvwIDIxbeDWOzlzogAvqS2IH0MpuOkmZateKR9VB4WhhZxeRtuZ2/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="960" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50uLuStT90kYmjpoB8E_5UuSr5OgphfHKtN8dQVe9Qv9Vfqhe1ORrzxLDuEpEBuC6-SSlRR7A71FCzdhh2YhHJYCThvwIDIxbeDWOzlzogAvqS2IH0MpuOkmZateKR9VB4WhhZxeRtuZ2/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kesari Wada Ganapati</td></tr>
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<b><u>Other Famous Ganapati of Pune city</u></b><br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati</span></u></b><br /> This Ganapati is not in consideration in honor Ganapati of Pune but very popular in Maharashtra and is visited by lakhs of pilgrims every year. This Ganapati temple trust holds the crown of the richest Ganapati of Pune city.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBi0OkkCQKG7mOcVSQkcgv6TDsE87yBgMg6RXA1qIweG4My7noqTcBLprIbZzsf_gVvVViE09PlSZ-BLthy09DHLNbODuW9AxToCYr8b8Euoco4rVlFiof4twUL7WgTHXgRGDopGY0IrJ/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="960" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBi0OkkCQKG7mOcVSQkcgv6TDsE87yBgMg6RXA1qIweG4My7noqTcBLprIbZzsf_gVvVViE09PlSZ-BLthy09DHLNbODuW9AxToCYr8b8Euoco4rVlFiof4twUL7WgTHXgRGDopGY0IrJ/s640/9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dagadusheth Ganapati</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaruZVw-t8AmUPBK_FanSlPEVKQwxzlaLM066WE1CdDfM_ty5W0iC2mhujjH14re0q2H6ciRHdUp4b1-3xYlwskTO6hNTYP7voeQKLzA0lb_RebjuVOwyisKYF48yYLJIhFWztvrDYVvnv/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaruZVw-t8AmUPBK_FanSlPEVKQwxzlaLM066WE1CdDfM_ty5W0iC2mhujjH14re0q2H6ciRHdUp4b1-3xYlwskTO6hNTYP7voeQKLzA0lb_RebjuVOwyisKYF48yYLJIhFWztvrDYVvnv/s640/10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dagadusheth Ganapati</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Akhil Mandai Ganapati Mandal</span></u></b><br /> This is one of the most important Ganesh Mandal in Pune. It has an idol of Lord Ganesha sitting on a swing with Goddess Sharada. It is located in biggest and oldest vegetable market in Pune City.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixF7efSRQnb6OuT2jqEh2DcEANP4xyK34fcw6pC0GCwemTm-asYq95xThFcaIxMdYxW22v6hDeBrVSmOk3yKwqmLtMYtfQPSeDJXFvD2soryN87gyF3uaTV1K1A308_sKxNyMcEsED_ApU/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="657" data-original-width="960" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixF7efSRQnb6OuT2jqEh2DcEANP4xyK34fcw6pC0GCwemTm-asYq95xThFcaIxMdYxW22v6hDeBrVSmOk3yKwqmLtMYtfQPSeDJXFvD2soryN87gyF3uaTV1K1A308_sKxNyMcEsED_ApU/s640/11.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akhil Mandai Ganapati</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-56925176526286833092017-12-17T23:00:00.000+05:302018-02-06T00:52:01.926+05:30Pratapgad Fort: Mahabaleshwar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We visited Mahabaleshwar multiple times but never able to visit Beautiful Pratapgad Fort. we planned a separate trip to Fort and went on Pratapgad. Fort holds a very important position in history due to the great battle of Pratapgad between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan won by Shivaji Maharaj.<br />
Travellers for this trip were I and Renuka.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1oukD3ki6qe_wDXM3u14FliPV-1eNerLKXaiegO-y98o5ajnRH8qNGvgzJdnP6Wa-OF2qVr735lFnqiX4dpildzKkxSidttWdnH_XxoxypbZ-W5yogzj2O4ZVSloHJii4k_F5LIJbyzO/s1600/IMG_7397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pratapgad Fort" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1oukD3ki6qe_wDXM3u14FliPV-1eNerLKXaiegO-y98o5ajnRH8qNGvgzJdnP6Wa-OF2qVr735lFnqiX4dpildzKkxSidttWdnH_XxoxypbZ-W5yogzj2O4ZVSloHJii4k_F5LIJbyzO/s640/IMG_7397.JPG" title="Pratapgad Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pratapgad Fort</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Pratapgad Fort</span></u></b>:<br />
Pratapgad fort is located 20-22km from Mahabaleshwar. The Fort is 3540 ft above sea level. It was built 1656 by Moropant Trimbak Pingle who was a loyal Prime minister under King Shivaji. The main purpose of the fort in order to defend the banks of the Nira and the Koyna rivers, and to defend the Par pass.<br />
Pune to Pratapgad is a 3 to 3.30 hours’ drive. Best way to reach Mahabaleshwar is Pune – National highway 4 – After 75 km journey on NH4 Take right at Surul – Wai – Panchgani – Mahabaleshwar - Pratapgad. There are many signboards which guide you to Mahabaleshwar and at all tourist points.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">GPS Location</span></u></b>: 17.933032, 73.580706</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">18 December 2017: Pune - Pratapgad - Pune</span></u></b><br />
We left Pune by 7 AM. Without taking any pit stop, we reached Pratapgad fort base by 10 AM. NH-4 highway is now extended up to 6 lanes highway. Apart from few patches between Wai Phata and Wai, rest of road is in good condition.<br />
Limited car parking is available at the base. The Road on the left side of parking goes to the steps of the Fort. After climbing few steps, we reached Mahadarwaja (Main Entrance) which is built between two bastions. There are 2 small rooms which were used by guards. One of the Guardroom has Cannon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-uGaztRaz5b26fsYE7l_2zgDPpqOI8J-RaHE544KDipejm6Ahyphenhyphen-xjaSWiKoAzXtsk2xT-YTFlzef176Ciob8_xaRogBIUGlKef4sRRoEOEalhgPeV-HLytfOFtnnm0ReouTel28XXlHS/s1600/IMG_7367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-uGaztRaz5b26fsYE7l_2zgDPpqOI8J-RaHE544KDipejm6Ahyphenhyphen-xjaSWiKoAzXtsk2xT-YTFlzef176Ciob8_xaRogBIUGlKef4sRRoEOEalhgPeV-HLytfOFtnnm0ReouTel28XXlHS/s640/IMG_7367.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tehani Buruj</td></tr>
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Take right side route after crossing Mahadarwaja for Tehani Buruj (Watchtower). This is the famous bastions which always shown in Pratapgad fort's photo. It was used to keep a close watch on the nearby valley. Watchtower offers you a beautiful breathtaking valley view. You can see Fort view from this bastion as bastion lies on the lower part of the fort. After spending some time on Bastion, we returned towards entrance gate. There are steps which take you to the upper part of the Fort. You can see the Lake on your right side while climbing the steps. This Lake is known as Rahat Lake. There are total 4 lakes on the fort.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQYgVQ4yTlsHdIYNMgqeOdBkTYT0BdwRWU2Nl5vdp08zPweTPs2eZwo1xFv1SgbCy4wJvd16918qnLdn7tN7zmBthGti-6iSPX-OrAMz_CRJo5YStZ_pg7jyy63gCfMhfQpbID1u6InH9/s1600/IMG_7362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pratapgad Fort" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQYgVQ4yTlsHdIYNMgqeOdBkTYT0BdwRWU2Nl5vdp08zPweTPs2eZwo1xFv1SgbCy4wJvd16918qnLdn7tN7zmBthGti-6iSPX-OrAMz_CRJo5YStZ_pg7jyy63gCfMhfQpbID1u6InH9/s640/IMG_7362.JPG" title="Pratapgad Fort" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pratapgad Fort</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYFOBacweS0VdJZpYJ9-LEfX_9K75lk5q6FaCUl9L4VxspDFKMK4sk8Zt9kwmdj3xI3CNuQv88REFRHvL5Dja_BdrFDlaHDCGDCEBSwjOSCf1-xE5GsVJlE7LfbDGebv_Yo-HVzDdphAd/s1600/IMG_7408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYFOBacweS0VdJZpYJ9-LEfX_9K75lk5q6FaCUl9L4VxspDFKMK4sk8Zt9kwmdj3xI3CNuQv88REFRHvL5Dja_BdrFDlaHDCGDCEBSwjOSCf1-xE5GsVJlE7LfbDGebv_Yo-HVzDdphAd/s640/IMG_7408.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake at Pratapgad Fort</td></tr>
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We went to the top of fort first where Status of Shivaji Maharaj is mounted on the horse with a sword in his right hand. Status was unveiled by late Jawaharlal Nehru (Prime mister). As per locals, this place was used to be a palace of Shivaji Maharaj. This point is a topmost point fort also known as Bale Killa.<br />
We settle down here and had a good discussion on the fort history. Whenever we visit any fort, we love to read/discuss on the fort and about its history. It gives you different perception to explore the fort. This was the Hill known as "Bhorpya" which was used as a watchtower. Shivaji Maharaj captured the place and ordered to construct the fort. Fort was built under Shivaji Maharaja's Prime minster 'Moropant Pingle'. During Maratha emperor, Prime minister was recognized as Peshwa. Fort came into limelight due to Battle between Maharaj and Afzal Khan.<br />
Afzal Khan was strongest and powerful warrior from Adilshah emperor. He was ordered to capture or kill Shivaji Maharaj by Adilshah Sultan. He came along with 20000 cavalries, more than 15000 infantry, 1500 gun army, 15000 Khan's personal army, 100+ elephant base army, 1000+ camel base army and 150+ canons for battle (Count varies in different books). Shivaji Maharaj was in Pune at that time and he knew that defeating around Pune not possible hence he moved to Pratapgad. Considering Pratapgad and nearby hill terrain, Afzal's most of the army was useless in battle. He settles down in Wai as he was aware of wai area.<br />
Shivaji offered meeting at the base of Pratapgad which was agreed by Afzal Khan. He agreed with one condition that meeting will take place with few armed bodyguards and leader without any weapons. The meeting was scheduled for 10 November 1659. Afzal Khan joins the meeting place with Katyar (Small sword) hidden under a cloth. Shivaji Maharaj was aware the intention of Khan and he wears protective armor under clothes. Also, Shivaji Maharaj carried weapon Vagh Nakh (Weapon looks like Tiger claws made up of sharp iron) for self-defense.<br />
During the meeting, Afzal gave tight hug to Maharaj and struck him with a small sword. Shivaji Maharaj was saved by armor. As counter attach, Maharaj attack Khan with Wagh Nakh. Injured Khan ran out of Tent (Meeting place) for help. Sayyad Banda (Khan's bodyguard) attacked Shivaji Maharaj but Jiva Mahala (Shivaji's Bodyguard) intervened and chopped Sayyad Banda's hand by the sword. This event remembered in Marathi as "Hota Jiva Mhanun vachala Shiva" which means because of Jiva, Shiva lived.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEuGq6XkHLmyS-XDlfPTL-lhMqHpsGTYmHabZHimpV_2LG5Go_yNIgHjAU4kA2NTrMJBRtQSmEDaslSNcRYT7r881HIP-UImzwNvL36_Vk0utIedk7FD-5zDizbIdU-VfaJyGdfzPVtQ2/s1600/IMG_7378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEuGq6XkHLmyS-XDlfPTL-lhMqHpsGTYmHabZHimpV_2LG5Go_yNIgHjAU4kA2NTrMJBRtQSmEDaslSNcRYT7r881HIP-UImzwNvL36_Vk0utIedk7FD-5zDizbIdU-VfaJyGdfzPVtQ2/s640/IMG_7378.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pratapgad Fort</td></tr>
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Afzal Khan went in Palkhi (non-wheel Vehicle to carry leader) but Palkhi lifters were attached by Shivaji's bodyguard Sambhaji Kavji. He killed Afzal Khan. After war, Shivaji Maharaj sent Afzal Khan's head to Rajgad to show it to Jijabai (Shivaji Maharaj's mother) as Shahaji Raje (Father of Shivaji Maharaj) was captive of Afzal Khan and Afzal played the main role to kill Sambhaji (Elder son of Shahaji Raje, Do not confuse with Sambhaji Maharaj as he was son of Shivaji Maharaj. Same name was used in multiple generations)<br />
After Afzal's death, Shivaji Maharaj gave a sign (By lighting cannons) to attack Afzal's army. quick action by Shivaji's army and without Afzal Khan, his army fail to fight. Adilshah lost too many armies (more than 13000) which was a major set back to his emperor. Shivaji Maharaj won many weapons, cannons, horse, elephant, camel, stored gains, and money. All captured war of prisoners were sent back to Bijapur with proper respect. This remarkable victory made Shivaji Maharaj hero in the emperor and famous as great mind warrior within India at that time. Shivaji also buried Afzal Khan as per Islamic customs and built his tomb near Pratapgarh, as per his philosophy of ‘once the enemy is dead, the enmity is dead too’.<br />
We left the Status to explore remaining part of the Fort. We visited Keshawraj temple which is located on Bale Killa. There is small place opposite to temple which is known as Sadar. A place built for important meeting and discussions.<br />
After Climbing down, we visited Bhavani Temple. Idol was curved from the rock which was brought from the convergence point of three rivers namely; Trishul Gandaki, Shwet Gandaki, and Saraswati. Temple also have Shivpindi made up of transparent crystal stone. you can see small cannons from Maratha emperor kept in temple campus. There is a sword of the warrior Hambirrao Mohite, over which his name is engraved along with a sign of ‘6 Star’. (One Star was awarded to a person who kills 100 enemy soldiers).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxBgD7eA1KiIrl0v-mKXUEImj1D9mb893lsHyopZzdJm3TL9us8vAUcNxdeWdCjXZoPVL2QCfrQ4e5OCvqpweKoruIMUdOCYe2OSeUXBme6OOun2LNxUQiZ4lYUmoGDfjamjADzyOkqsII/s1600/IMG_7389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxBgD7eA1KiIrl0v-mKXUEImj1D9mb893lsHyopZzdJm3TL9us8vAUcNxdeWdCjXZoPVL2QCfrQ4e5OCvqpweKoruIMUdOCYe2OSeUXBme6OOun2LNxUQiZ4lYUmoGDfjamjADzyOkqsII/s640/IMG_7389.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bhavani Mata temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYk1CPCky7VkqBAa1iKixVsv8t5BJLtAkfuMD7PRYa-TCWnRJ3opsMMC1rvjZaB0pG1gM43q_UMBasEFFxxvBUkEu6UpveFj3S_Dh060MM7YL5TBEnNweoIdnALWpvJTeMALVoy3jpm8g/s1600/IMG_7405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYk1CPCky7VkqBAa1iKixVsv8t5BJLtAkfuMD7PRYa-TCWnRJ3opsMMC1rvjZaB0pG1gM43q_UMBasEFFxxvBUkEu6UpveFj3S_Dh060MM7YL5TBEnNweoIdnALWpvJTeMALVoy3jpm8g/s640/IMG_7405.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Cannons at Bhavani temple</td></tr>
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There is Hastakala Kendra shop for handicraft product. View of Tehani Buruj (Watchtower bastion) is beautiful. After a quick visit to the shop, we took a lunch break at hotel Rasoi. It is opposite side of Bhavani temple entrance. You can have a tasty Maharashtrian meal here along with the fort view.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch Time</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tasty Meal</td></tr>
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We left beautiful fort after lunch. At the base of the fort, you can see Tomb of Afzal Khan and his faithful bodyguard, Sayyed Banda. Due to some political issue, entry to visit this place is banned. There are Hastakala Kendra handicraft shop and miniature village which takes you into Maratha emperor era.<br />
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We visited Mahabaleshwar market for some quick shopping and then tasty Strawberry with cream as dessert in Bagicha ice cream parlor. As we wanted to spend our evening time at table land, we proceed to Panchgani for Tableland. It is 2nd longest mountain plateau in Asia.We were least interested in riding so we had a nice walk on tableland. We spend sunset time together on tableland and then left Panchgani.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tableland at Panchgani</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Car Petrol: INR 1500/-</li>
<li>NH-4 return Toll: INR 130/-</li>
<li>Pachgani pollution tax: INR 50/- (For Car)</li>
<li>Pachgani Entry tax: INR 20/- per person (valid for 7 days)</li>
<li>Mahabaleshwar pollution tax: INR 30/- (For Car)</li>
<li>Mahabaleshwar Entry tax: INR 20/- per person (valid for 7 days)</li>
<li>Lunch: INR 345/- (Pithale-Vange Masala-Bhakari Thali at 100/-, Curd at 40/- and Extra Bhakari at 25/-)</li>
<li>Strawberry with cream: INR 120/-</li>
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We reached home safely by via same NH-4 route by 8.30 PM<br />
I will try to upload more and more travel blogs. Thanks for reading this Travel Blog.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<b style="color: red;">PriteshKulkarni</b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Pune</b></span></div>
<span style="color: red;"> </span></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-6735643288913075322017-12-09T23:00:00.000+05:302018-01-20T12:55:48.388+05:30Aga Khan Palace: Pune<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Friends were requested me to start writing on places from Pune city. So People visiting Pune can get An idea about it. This is my first attempt to write blog on places to visit in Pune<br />We went to Aga Khan Palace in evening.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aga Khan Palace (Clicked from iPhone)</td></tr>
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Location</span></u></b>: Pune Nagar Road, Kalyani Nagar, Pune 41104<br /><span style="color: #0b5394;"><u><b>GPS Location</b></u></span>: 18.552708, 73.901510<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Aga Khan Palace:</span></u></b><br />Aga Khan Palace was built by Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III in 1892. He built this palace to create jobs to poor people from nearby villages. During 1890s nearby area was not considered as part of Pune city and highly affected by Drought.<br />Muhammad Shah Aga Khan was born in Karachi (Now part of Pakistan) Nizari Ismaili community. <br />Palace came into limelight due to Indian freedom movement when It served as Prison for Mahatma Gandhi, Wife Kasturba Gandhi, Mahadev Desai and Sarojini Naidu.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aga Khan Palace</td></tr>
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<br /><b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Visit to Aga Khan Palace:</span></u></b><br /> We went to Aga Khan Palace by 3:30-4 PM. You can reach to Aga Khan palace by Public transport or by Auto or by Cab service. It is located on Nagar road highway which is easy to locate. This place is open from 9AM to 5:30PM. They stop selling entry tickets after 5PM. The place can be seen in less than Hour if you are not deeply interested in Indian History else it has potential to keep you busy for 2-3 hours. Photography is not allowed whereas you can click photos from Mobile Camera and no need to Pay for same.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aga Khan Palace</td></tr>
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Construction of Palace began in the year 1887 and completed in 5 years. As I mentioned in the blog, construction of palace created jobs to Poor people from nearby Village. Few historical documents say that work employed 1000 people. It was built in Rs 12 Lakhs (in the year 1892). Total Area is 13 acres whereas palace was built on 7 acres of land. The rest area is well maintained Garden along with Small Canteen, Samadhi of Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Samadhi of Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai</td></tr>
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Mahatma Gandhi, Wife Kasturba Gandhi, and secretary Mahadev Desai were captured and kept in Palace from 9 August 1942 to 6 May 1944 for Quit India Movement against British. Kasturba Gandhi and secretary Mahadev Desai died during the captivity. In 1969, Aga Khan Palace donated to Indian Government to open for all as a mark of respect to Gandhi.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mahatma Gandhi's memorial where part of Ashes kept </td></tr>
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The only ground floor of Palace is open for tourist. You can see a painting of Gandhi, Painting about there freedom journey and information. You can visit the rooms in which Mahadev Desai, Kasturba Gandhi were captured and kept. Their belongs are also kept for display. Last Room belongs to Mahatma Gandhi but it is closed and you can view through glass. Samadhi of Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Gandhi is located in the Palace area. When Mahatma Gandhi died, part of his ashes was brought to the palace and built the memorial. The Palace has beautiful Garden to spend a good time.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mahatma Gandhi's Room</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Ticket rates:</span></u></b></div>
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Indian Nationality: INR 15/- per person</div>
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SAARC nation citizens (Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Pakistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan): INR 15/- per person</div>
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BIMSTEC nation citizen (Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Bhutan, and Bangladesh): INR 15/- per person</div>
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Foreign Nation: INR 200/- per person</div>
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Thanks for reading this travel Blog. Keep traveling.</div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Pritesh Kulkarni</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Pune</b></span></div>
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Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8144646857379135154.post-55581326983552594992017-11-08T23:00:00.000+05:302017-12-27T00:25:06.683+05:30Deccan Cliffhanger 2017 Cycle race and south Goa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I started Cycling around 10 months back and my focus was on long distance cycling. Every endurance Indian cyclist's dream to participate in Ultra races. Deccan Cliffhanger is one of the Them. I was not prepared to participate in the race in Solo or Team category but we (Me and Renuka) got chance to be a part of the race as Crew member for my cyclist friends.<br />
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After the race, I and Renu decided to explore few beaches from South Goa for 2 days.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pNbSBSOrlbxxQRNfpHAE9wp4QacMGnE0ttr5RcWFcheejxhcPc6rjxzO0IeeAGaHKVFbTzQ0E-UbzlvaowwAKUwAAN-dFdtrhndTY-efi-lWK52RoHJJErV72XgSGzuG3q8h3mAg5mYt/s1600/IMG_6205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bogmalo Beach" border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="1600" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pNbSBSOrlbxxQRNfpHAE9wp4QacMGnE0ttr5RcWFcheejxhcPc6rjxzO0IeeAGaHKVFbTzQ0E-UbzlvaowwAKUwAAN-dFdtrhndTY-efi-lWK52RoHJJErV72XgSGzuG3q8h3mAg5mYt/s640/IMG_6205.JPG" title="Bogmalo Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bogmalo Beach</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">About Deccan Cliffhanger Race</span></u></b><br />
Deccan cliffhanger is Ultra cycle race of 643 km (400 miles) starting from Pune to Bogmalo beach, Goa. The race is conducted by Inspire India and concept by Divya Tale (Head of Inspire India). This is an annual race which held on November month. Race comes with 2 categories as Solo and relay team race. Relay team category comes with a team size of 2,3 or 4. The race also offers All Men category, All woman team category, and Mix team category.<br />
Check Website for More details: https://www.inspire-india.in<br />
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Race Route is Pune - Wai - Mahabaleshwar - Medha Ghat - Satara - Karad - Kolhapur - Nipani - Belgaon- Dharwad - Anmod Ghat - Bogmalo beach.<br />
This year route was changed due to bad road condition in Medha Ghat and it was altered as Pune - Joshi Vihir - Wai - Bhilar ghat - Satara and further remains same.<br />
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Deccan cliffhanger (DC) solo race is a RAAM (Race Across America) qualifier which is known Worlds toughest cycle race.<br />
DC race must have a support vehicle and crew members for all kind of support to Riders.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Day 1: 04 November 17: Pune to Goa</span></u></b><br />
We participated in 4 men team category. Riders were Advait, Sunny, Kunal and Vishal. Crew team was Me, Renuka, Amruta, Ronit, and Vibhangi. Our flag off time was between 7:30 - 8 AM. Flag off was started from 5AM with Solo participants Fallowed by teams. There was individual flag off for everyone as time is calculated separately. Our 4 men team was split into 2 cars for better planning and smooth switching.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoe-CWyJ8Q_-fyZ-IRoRfH_ttMeCsr-6uYmdyTDQVL-2hm8sGPXbiPYKbLDAXtlBgDWDV1RWHsDFJ9LHRRUKFhMFSsv8xN76R5TQ-2PHziHPkfF2HjGWTZyODkWEpl9-7y1TyZpK0URovS/s1600/IMG_3215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoe-CWyJ8Q_-fyZ-IRoRfH_ttMeCsr-6uYmdyTDQVL-2hm8sGPXbiPYKbLDAXtlBgDWDV1RWHsDFJ9LHRRUKFhMFSsv8xN76R5TQ-2PHziHPkfF2HjGWTZyODkWEpl9-7y1TyZpK0URovS/s640/IMG_3215.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Deccan Cliffhanger Team... Ronit Dalvi missing in Photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In Team race, one rider is on track and others are in crew car or at the switching point. Riders can switch their turn as many time as they want. It depends upon team's planning. We decided to switch rider after every 45 min on the highway and after every 5 KM in Pasarni Ghat. Crew members need to take care of Riders cycles, Navigation of race route, Right Food for Riders, help in technical issues, Riders health, preparing him for a ride and importantly to motivate the riders as 643km race requires high endurance!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX14uupTdYt1lLLAJwb5zhLdSqtAb86a3WkBTZDs0ftxuLHohs-0dt2HfFsz1UiV4dTDJ7A1f0b2Esqpu8W8Npditc-s2QupV50fgvnfQr1fiHVFA-Rur50Pqs8ng2JFYzarNb4rQRE0JJ/s1600/IMG_3514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX14uupTdYt1lLLAJwb5zhLdSqtAb86a3WkBTZDs0ftxuLHohs-0dt2HfFsz1UiV4dTDJ7A1f0b2Esqpu8W8Npditc-s2QupV50fgvnfQr1fiHVFA-Rur50Pqs8ng2JFYzarNb4rQRE0JJ/s640/IMG_3514.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flag off Time... Sunny on Cycle</td></tr>
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<br />
The race starts at the cliff project, Bhugaon. Most of the riders were together till Khambatki Ghat. Riders get separated While climbing Pasarni Ghat (Ghat to reach Mahabaleshwar) as it actually tests your endurance and climbing skills. The race goes in a smooth manner after Satara as route till Tondavli Ghat (After Nipani, Karnataka) is pretty flat with some up and downs.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5RoEKSOiMl_B8FfeTG5HNEymgRSBoqPXZ6sD40S4mK5COZYgV0hWqUUs3NB14DjujsrhOGRi83raelSctTRxM2lizKWCUpGLvLrfl8cPHNXqEK6tzNpvhzvWCdmHRzrOIFCRwzOL9-0T/s1600/IMG_3528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1160" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5RoEKSOiMl_B8FfeTG5HNEymgRSBoqPXZ6sD40S4mK5COZYgV0hWqUUs3NB14DjujsrhOGRi83raelSctTRxM2lizKWCUpGLvLrfl8cPHNXqEK6tzNpvhzvWCdmHRzrOIFCRwzOL9-0T/s640/IMG_3528.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crew Cars at Katraj Climb</td></tr>
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<br />
We were at the second position after Karad in 4 men team category. We crossed Kolhapur during sunset time. After sunset, the rule is simple...Rider has to ride the bicycle in the headlight area which means the distance between support car and cycle should not be more than 30-35 Feet. Crew members take responsibility for such rules, food supply, and navigation. Weather calculation changes after sunset as now rider have to face the chilled wind.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4s_vLL1WFm6_xS-YhyphenhyphenFf2BF9qHBVM94KYebM9TbC6-JFHmvCxlBaCYVLu4fYKfZe6t10jGTars3a6GuCw0PBF2JRGrx8kaB7gew7vuVvQLZGgGPh5CQ5PaoYrdReOEJ79c9eJOwTQS7iC/s1600/IMG_3654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4s_vLL1WFm6_xS-YhyphenhyphenFf2BF9qHBVM94KYebM9TbC6-JFHmvCxlBaCYVLu4fYKfZe6t10jGTars3a6GuCw0PBF2JRGrx8kaB7gew7vuVvQLZGgGPh5CQ5PaoYrdReOEJ79c9eJOwTQS7iC/s640/IMG_3654.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rider: Sunny Khandale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7OywFVF4n6AXChwwDdBcBxsKq8SAt5x_lTL25ZCcSTFu0vi1_hyuR4mubgchVIOJtFG4gn0zLrYLbsykdwbpdwsrKfUoefoWOVqFyhNMpWuKzLo0KPbsSgIvd5eO0Is-NoXy32bKRpzR6/s1600/IMG_3661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7OywFVF4n6AXChwwDdBcBxsKq8SAt5x_lTL25ZCcSTFu0vi1_hyuR4mubgchVIOJtFG4gn0zLrYLbsykdwbpdwsrKfUoefoWOVqFyhNMpWuKzLo0KPbsSgIvd5eO0Is-NoXy32bKRpzR6/s640/IMG_3661.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rider: Advait Khatavkar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczkMeh1aR0DwIdIaQt66BTyboD9DLEhtOdq_oU4EuXpGOGyZmJAE3PzDlswRIPAgbknJ-Zrj1_dWo6vsqupxnr9yZd-DQNF_CxwaOVe614ZU4OJ4zodyqS4I9ykbx8Q2eOf4nSKt7Vs7F/s1600/IMG_3598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczkMeh1aR0DwIdIaQt66BTyboD9DLEhtOdq_oU4EuXpGOGyZmJAE3PzDlswRIPAgbknJ-Zrj1_dWo6vsqupxnr9yZd-DQNF_CxwaOVe614ZU4OJ4zodyqS4I9ykbx8Q2eOf4nSKt7Vs7F/s640/IMG_3598.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rider: Vishal Butte</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMZumty1aBttPwQiApu7Cb60dfvjynS12OF4vq7CRsSIXTwBULoiYeEuYmHGjl_4Nt7Wtw8kA1TS-lt7QVB-5vu7Xf1WPJd-AX5Ps_hNTwzthTete5_WcQqerVvqIE6-ET1LXbmtRbVrm/s1600/IMG_3595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMZumty1aBttPwQiApu7Cb60dfvjynS12OF4vq7CRsSIXTwBULoiYeEuYmHGjl_4Nt7Wtw8kA1TS-lt7QVB-5vu7Xf1WPJd-AX5Ps_hNTwzthTete5_WcQqerVvqIE6-ET1LXbmtRbVrm/s640/IMG_3595.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rider: Kunal Singh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Day 2: 05 November 17: Pune to Goa</span></u></b><br />
We crossed Dharwad by 12 midnight. Next journey was to enter Goa via Mahavir forest. We spotted Wolf in the forest those were about to cross the road in front of Cycle. By early morning we entered Goa. We finish the race at 6.22 AM scurrying 2nd position. Finish point of Deccan cliffhanger race is Bogmalo Beach.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN5op3j8Juv1y3v9J5YCTxJQ6Dh9Ygy3F4LRiX7a8aijID8R3cOWnFTuHpYVU6zIdSvUynzPRoM5PpEfQnak6wpmHG3lpLlazJkclqXA9he0dgxjbVH7jKsHzIv5CnqqoizAY_sKVJfZAi/s1600/IMG_3733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN5op3j8Juv1y3v9J5YCTxJQ6Dh9Ygy3F4LRiX7a8aijID8R3cOWnFTuHpYVU6zIdSvUynzPRoM5PpEfQnak6wpmHG3lpLlazJkclqXA9he0dgxjbVH7jKsHzIv5CnqqoizAY_sKVJfZAi/s640/IMG_3733.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Switching point... Vishal about to cross Kunal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Riders get Finisher medal and satisfaction of completing 400miles race on their faces. Few solo riders manage to finish the race in less than 30 hours which is qualification time for RAAM race. We had some photoshoot and rest on the beach. The entire team (Riders and Crew) worked hard to finish the DC 2017. We checked in the hotel for rest and we hardly got time to sleep from last 24+ hours. The award ceremony was arranged on Bogmalo beach from 7PM. The program started with Price distribution and result announced followed by Dinner. Party was over by 10:30 PM. This year, I participated in the race as Crew but next year, I will be a Rider for sure!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMjuoLevFQraEYfLmWMAYhRWIRQ2LvQyVqGK2E0pvzPgTj4FJq3AjZQusHQCUvhpXfYlog2JNFakBbELwo2IFqJczNWplpVmETjop1lwyHAEUB0wbgVOCm95NK9-hI80kElJzh0IK6MV8/s1600/IMG_3772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMjuoLevFQraEYfLmWMAYhRWIRQ2LvQyVqGK2E0pvzPgTj4FJq3AjZQusHQCUvhpXfYlog2JNFakBbELwo2IFqJczNWplpVmETjop1lwyHAEUB0wbgVOCm95NK9-hI80kElJzh0IK6MV8/s640/IMG_3772.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second Position at Deccan Cliffhanger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDqblW_EGQNnxj-HMtkYP5Xln2ZxplDUF-eN4fnLcG_0YdxgaP02h2HttRCLJMa-Rm0eOMKMZIKQHRkxIV9EfPEg3HYLDNTclgc-HoZFe8IhO1We-7dbGyGSEYoI2m5mfBQP1uJWjfniv/s1600/IMG_3814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sunset at Bogmalo Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDqblW_EGQNnxj-HMtkYP5Xln2ZxplDUF-eN4fnLcG_0YdxgaP02h2HttRCLJMa-Rm0eOMKMZIKQHRkxIV9EfPEg3HYLDNTclgc-HoZFe8IhO1We-7dbGyGSEYoI2m5mfBQP1uJWjfniv/s640/IMG_3814.JPG" title="Sunset at Bogmalo Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at Bogmalo Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We all went out as friends planned my birthday celebration. At midnight, we had my birthday celebration by cutting the tasty cake. Our day ends at 2AM<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN3F3XzoMu_4TZd3hFi_IyKs_Q5NGvLsBheu6MdDRubPYza98i4C8Iedp5IkawovqZKXoATNMOhedXNvnUb6cnM_KTA6myGfg4Y4bf2QC2vphOtEQhT8vkogEgVNy-1iDvm8OHEPb51FjG/s1600/IMG_3856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN3F3XzoMu_4TZd3hFi_IyKs_Q5NGvLsBheu6MdDRubPYza98i4C8Iedp5IkawovqZKXoATNMOhedXNvnUb6cnM_KTA6myGfg4Y4bf2QC2vphOtEQhT8vkogEgVNy-1iDvm8OHEPb51FjG/s640/IMG_3856.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebration Time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Day 3: 06 November 17: Goa</span></u></b><br />
Advait and Me woke up early in the morning and went for Cycling. We visited Hollant beach which is very close to Bogmalo. Hollant beach is very small beach and hardly visited by tourists. Beach is clean surrounded by hills from 3 sides. We spend some time and returned to the hotel. All went to Pune by crew cars in morning Expect Me-Renu and Advait-Amruta.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCLtv5O4n8KHMel19b7wX79tNDc7Sng7eE26InjDDFu_qjmYnSw_bKWY3ApqIJVQtJ40Qhv007M1dZZIeTCltgkGUZJM1G9Yvqnz7QLT_Opf2v1mTY2TV1yLx6i2xxr083n_5zDdXxTlS9/s1600/IMG_3867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hollant Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCLtv5O4n8KHMel19b7wX79tNDc7Sng7eE26InjDDFu_qjmYnSw_bKWY3ApqIJVQtJ40Qhv007M1dZZIeTCltgkGUZJM1G9Yvqnz7QLT_Opf2v1mTY2TV1yLx6i2xxr083n_5zDdXxTlS9/s640/IMG_3867.JPG" title="Hollant Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hollant Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJHQeEnOMFNkG3u2Nl5AK5F6dWZlTUZX_mKZNqawnDrgRzuoK5MWY3YuK5NBbrNmpNhnsOkMJ13Yqx6Waoz1llpWApqhkh2Jfd6fjO05hVP5L3u1TQj4c18kHZ-1ATgl8ig8EtNAYbF_OX/s1600/IMG_6291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hollant Beach" border="0" data-original-height="459" data-original-width="1600" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJHQeEnOMFNkG3u2Nl5AK5F6dWZlTUZX_mKZNqawnDrgRzuoK5MWY3YuK5NBbrNmpNhnsOkMJ13Yqx6Waoz1llpWApqhkh2Jfd6fjO05hVP5L3u1TQj4c18kHZ-1ATgl8ig8EtNAYbF_OX/s640/IMG_6291.JPG" title="Hollant Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hollant Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We had Breakfast at Bogmalo beach and then relaxing time around Bogmalo. Our plan was to move towards the south and catch Bus for Pune by tomorrow evening. We did check out from Hotel and went to Mapusa by Local bus. We hired Bikes (which is common in Goa) to explore south Goa side.<br />
It was 1 PM in clock so we had lunch at Benaulim beach. Seafood at Johncy's restaurant was tasty. We spend some time on the beach. The weather was pleasant even in the afternoon as it was bit cloudy. Our next destination was Coba de Rama beach. We somehow manage to reach Ag sunset time and witness beautiful Sunday along with a cup of hot coffee. Beach is not populated like another famous Goan beach.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-1qh4_nRnI5YdbSzKIPfYfyVdKwuLjCooXdKFMkVLhBghUmZgY4xcI4FCts3M_qDEIG0_1NjifoC3n1ZKXzlT47_AQjeTb7damtyrktamB1SxIjAj-FfSNbF4RC3VO845o2HlgebpL_N/s1600/IMG_3872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-1qh4_nRnI5YdbSzKIPfYfyVdKwuLjCooXdKFMkVLhBghUmZgY4xcI4FCts3M_qDEIG0_1NjifoC3n1ZKXzlT47_AQjeTb7damtyrktamB1SxIjAj-FfSNbF4RC3VO845o2HlgebpL_N/s640/IMG_3872.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from Coba de Rama Beach</td></tr>
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<br />
After sunset, we returned to Benaulim beach to search for stay option. We got rooms at Woodstock Bamboo cottage. Rooms were very basic but manageable for night stay. After some rest, we had dinner in one of the shacks from Benaulim beach.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Day 4: 07 November 17: Goa to Pune</span></u></b><br />
We woke up early and went to the beach. Hotel owner gave his own cycle for the ride as our cycles went to Pune in Car. Renu had some Yoga on the beach whereas I and Advait went for beach cycling. It was fun to ride a cycle on the beach.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpz0V2azyTE5UDk75EeJJ-TUyL2rVkamosZnu8EV7nQW7J77iMktjVbKjUpXTX0FbH6g7cHineAvBivU4nd-ViUARquOh1S8D9lIPST2rgJHlhgZ9A3w_TF9oQFr2uffVKch5S4NhZqizs/s1600/IMG_6403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpz0V2azyTE5UDk75EeJJ-TUyL2rVkamosZnu8EV7nQW7J77iMktjVbKjUpXTX0FbH6g7cHineAvBivU4nd-ViUARquOh1S8D9lIPST2rgJHlhgZ9A3w_TF9oQFr2uffVKch5S4NhZqizs/s640/IMG_6403.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roadside Fish display...Early Morning Cycle Ride</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KmjFfHjdtpMr-giVvCMfZs71OZ9CS3tCbgb0iw0eLJMO_KZtjkJwmlPPq1RYYrqKv1txKpEc3dOGVc6zHxqQz4E9Ns_xgIbUHGi0COBfskc0d2OL1Lor66KALZ-D5hJ9H3ETTQrju3gd/s1600/IMG_3902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KmjFfHjdtpMr-giVvCMfZs71OZ9CS3tCbgb0iw0eLJMO_KZtjkJwmlPPq1RYYrqKv1txKpEc3dOGVc6zHxqQz4E9Ns_xgIbUHGi0COBfskc0d2OL1Lor66KALZ-D5hJ9H3ETTQrju3gd/s640/IMG_3902.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning on Benaulim Beach</td></tr>
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After breakfast, Advait and Amruta left Goa for Pune. We check out from the hotel to visit a couple of beaches before catching a bus for Pune. we decided to visit Colva beach. the beach is famous for water sports, shacks and long stretched beach. After taking a stroll on the beach we came back to the parking area. Beach area has a huge market to buy clothes, footwear, gift articles and much more.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa7VKQTA-WM3c7kmCycOWZ_JpWmZ2V-rfjns1ziOF-yqTjJT2yMXXFu8t-oMxLf3_kZZxCGKKdgi0Dp8a4zxmyTBHT5g8ZXRqbaGUD2xvvnA_pZMDISS33mglkuMppyjEKMwR_bxWGJ3j/s1600/IMG_3956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa7VKQTA-WM3c7kmCycOWZ_JpWmZ2V-rfjns1ziOF-yqTjJT2yMXXFu8t-oMxLf3_kZZxCGKKdgi0Dp8a4zxmyTBHT5g8ZXRqbaGUD2xvvnA_pZMDISS33mglkuMppyjEKMwR_bxWGJ3j/s640/IMG_3956.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colva Beach</td></tr>
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Our next beach to visit was Betalbatim beach. Actually, it is extended part of Colva beach. It is logically separated by respective village/town area. Beach was less crowded than Colva beach. We went ahead and visited Majorda beach. Again it is part of the same beach. In fact, you will find same beach line from Arossim to Betul without any discontinuity. Different names to beaches were given as per nearby village/town. There were few shacks on the beach. Beach was occupied by Russian tourists. Even all restaurant boards were written in the Russian language. We left the beach and came back to Colva for Lunch. We spend an entire afternoon in one the shack.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLeHRd2KCK0kQAlmpKAfuGekc2cnnNo5mWOY-9f1xH2IfMJ8s54NaNRnSO2_y-T_675Lfv6Wf7zNR3BZ933tnXAWmu9vORwF6G3nytxIwvkuHJYM-vW9m-lEOdApKq531rXRHX7Ss0CS2g/s1600/IMG_3971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Majorda Beach" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLeHRd2KCK0kQAlmpKAfuGekc2cnnNo5mWOY-9f1xH2IfMJ8s54NaNRnSO2_y-T_675Lfv6Wf7zNR3BZ933tnXAWmu9vORwF6G3nytxIwvkuHJYM-vW9m-lEOdApKq531rXRHX7Ss0CS2g/s640/IMG_3971.JPG" title="Majorda Beach" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Majorda Beach</td></tr>
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We decided to spend sunset time at Varca beach as it is always less crowded than Colva. The road to reach Varca takes a right at main circle near Colva, for Benaulim and go straight till you see an old whitewashed church on your left. Take right to reach Varca beach. The road is surrounded by coconut trees so if you are travelling during Monsoon, the journey is pleasant.Varca beach is famous for its golden sand and flat seabed. We had a walk on the beach and settle down to witness the beautiful sunset from Varca.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsuGGkmPyES2_70G1uEPraC16yBifGCPboCugFwn-utAzgyUlyREeg8YH7bJ6pcpf1HeU4mIFvJLew5-5vZGJAk5CPONA1py-AsL36ciiN3XO95SnBdyBbKes7AKCd6KPdsjU3lxhl1Fj/s1600/IMG_3985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsuGGkmPyES2_70G1uEPraC16yBifGCPboCugFwn-utAzgyUlyREeg8YH7bJ6pcpf1HeU4mIFvJLew5-5vZGJAk5CPONA1py-AsL36ciiN3XO95SnBdyBbKes7AKCd6KPdsjU3lxhl1Fj/s640/IMG_3985.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach games at Varca Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7YBRmhNdXX7jIiaoHSWjw-VcW0HdRzQFNTY2FbAUKepX74ErTBFw4AbBmvkZpieopjqlVYGZwd_E0ynWEuzD2TrLl0AiLAj1jOhK0HdphuQguR2bJZ7aXygMAXozM4bh8Iwq64CyZz6Xi/s1600/IMG_4029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7YBRmhNdXX7jIiaoHSWjw-VcW0HdRzQFNTY2FbAUKepX74ErTBFw4AbBmvkZpieopjqlVYGZwd_E0ynWEuzD2TrLl0AiLAj1jOhK0HdphuQguR2bJZ7aXygMAXozM4bh8Iwq64CyZz6Xi/s640/IMG_4029.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at Varca Beach</td></tr>
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We left beautiful Varca beach after sunset. We returned hired a bike at Mapasa and boarded 8PM sleeper Volvo for Pune. On next day morning, We reached home safely.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Expenses:</span></u></b><br />
As this was pre-planned Race Fallowed Trip, I was unable to keep track of expenses. Will share few expenses details from Trip<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Raikar Guest House, Bogmalo: INR 1200/- per Room</li>
<li>Pedro Restaurant: INR 1900/- for 4 people (Veg and Non-veg meal)</li>
<li>Woodstock Village Bamboo Cottage: INR 800/- per night</li>
<li>Beach Shack: INR 2200/- for 4 people (Veg and Sea Food)</li>
<li>Bike Rent: INR 300/- per day</li>
<li>Goa-Pune Sleeper coach bus: INR 800/- per person</li>
</ul>
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">GPS locations:</span></u></b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Bogmalo beach: 15.369221, 73.834616</li>
<li>Hollant beach: 15.370060, 73.862531</li>
<li>Coba de Rama beach: 15.103334, 73.925617</li>
<li>Benaulim Beach: 15.256959, 73.919196</li>
<li>Betalbatim beach: 15.292331, 73.908308</li>
<li>Colva Beach: 15.275785, 73.913541</li>
<li>Mojarda Beach: 15.309977, 73.902426</li>
<li>Varca Beach: 15.233130, 73.925986</li>
</ul>
<br />
Thanks for reading this Travel Blog. Happy travelling.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pritesh Kulkarni</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Pune</span></b></div>
</div>
Pritshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14324564553042014842noreply@blogger.com3