The Hike Begins

The first lake appeared just minutes into the trail — a calm, turquoise mirror at nearly the same elevation as the parking lot. The drive up had already shattered our earlier fantasy of biking to the trailhead someday; the incline was far too steep to be realistic.
The climb to Second Lake was where the real test began. The trail grew steep and relentless, forcing us to pause often, catching our breath at lookout points and splashing our faces with icy water from streams along the way. When we finally reached the lake, it was clear why it’s the most photographed spot on the trail — the iconic tree trunk stretching into the water, with hikers lining up for their turn to walk out and pose. My wife and I decided to skip the photo‑op for now, saving it for later.
The push to Third Lake was grueling, winding through dense forest with little view until the very end. Then, suddenly, the trees opened up to reveal a breathtaking alpine lake, framed by rugged peaks and snow patches melting into rushing streams. Signs reminded hikers to stay on the trail to protect fragile vegetation, and we respected the request, veering only slightly toward the camping area.
There, we found a quieter vantage point away from the crowds — exposed rocks, the sound of meltwater rushing into the lake, and a view that felt like pure wilderness. Campers nearby warned us not to venture further along the unstable rubble, so we stayed safe, took photos with my Fuji XT5 and wide lens, and soaked in the silence. It was bliss.

The Descent & A Refreshing DipOn the way down, we paused at a glacier‑fed stream, grassy banks offering the perfect spot for snacks and a short rest. We also picked up stray plastic and wrappers left behind by others — a small way to give back to the trail.
Back at Second Lake, I couldn’t resist the water any longer. While my wife stayed dry, I plunged in — not once, but four times. The water was icy but tolerable, far less brutal than the freezing alpine chill of Third Lake. The photos she took weren’t perfect, but the memory was.
With time ticking, we paced ourselves carefully and reached the trailhead just as our driver pulled up. By evening, we were back in Pemberton, sunburnt, exhausted, but deeply satisfied.

By the time we stumbled back into Pemberton that evening — sunburnt, exhausted, and still buzzing from glacier‑fed dips — we thought the adventure was over. But the next morning, the town itself surprised us with a completely different kind of magic. Stay tuned for Part 2: Slow Living in the Mountains – A Day in Pemberton.

Embarking on a road trip from Vancouver to Whistler along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway is an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of British Columbia's natural beauty and vibrant culture.

We began our journey at 9 am on 25th June, leaving Vancouver behind to embark on a breathtaking adventure. As we hit the open road, we were met with stunning coastal vistas, lush forests, and charming towns that dotted the landscape.
Here is the Google Map legend with all the details pinned- CLICK HERE

**Pit Stop 1: Shannon Falls Provincial Park**
Our first stop was Shannon Falls Provincial Park, where we marveled at the grandeur of Shannon Falls, cascading down the cliffs in all its splendor. The short hike to the viewing platform was well worth it, and the roaring waterfalls left us in awe of nature's power.
**Cost: Free**

**Pit Stop 2: Britannia Mine Museum**
Next, we delved into British Columbia's mining history at the Britannia Mine Museum. Exploring the historic mine, we learned about the region's mining heritage and the challenges faced by early miners. The highlight was the thrilling underground tour, taking us deep into the heart of the mountain.
**Cost: $39.95 CAD per adult**

**Pit Stop 3: Rope Runner Adventure Aerial Park - A Thrilling Escape**
Amidst the scenic Sea to Sky Highway, we made a thrilling stop at the Rope Runner Adventure Aerial Park. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this action-packed attraction offered aerial obstacle courses and zip lines that elevated our excitement to new heights. With safety gear in place, we swung, climbed, and zipped through the park, creating unforgettable memories in the heart of nature's splendor.
**Cost: $49.95 per adult (General Admission) **

**Pit Stop 4: Tantalus Resort Lodge**
After a day of exploration, we checked into Tantalus Resort Lodge at 6 pm. The comfortable accommodation and stunning mountain views provided the perfect respite for the night.
**Cost: $325 per night**

​Hi everyone, it's been a few weeks since I moved to Vancouver and I thought I'd share my observations and experiences so far. As a newcomer, I've had to adapt to the city's unique characteristics and learn how to navigate its quirks. Here are some of my observations:

1. Subdued Nightlife
One thing I noticed right away is that nightlife in Vancouver is typically more subdued compared to other big cities. This is likely due to the city's strict licensing and health & safety laws, which restrict standing in bars and limit capacity. While this might be a downside for some, I appreciate the city's focus on safety and responsible drinking.


2. High Homeless Population
Another thing I've noticed is the high homeless population in Vancouver. It's one of the mildest cities in Canada, so it attracts homeless individuals from all over the country. The area of East Hastings, where many of them congregate, is one of Vancouver's darker secrets. While it's disheartening to see so many people struggling, I'm also impressed by the city's efforts to provide support and resources for the homeless population.


3. Expensive Cost of Living
It's no secret that Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities to live in North America. The cost of living here is significantly higher than other Canadian cities, which can be a challenge for newcomers. However, I've found that there are ways to save money, such as taking advantage of free events and exploring the city on foot or bike instead of relying on cars.

​Overall, my first few weeks in Vancouver have been a mix of challenges and discoveries. While there are certainly unique aspects of the city that take some getting used to, I'm excited to continue exploring and adapting to this new environment. If you're a newcomer to Vancouver, my advice would be to embrace the city's quirks and take advantage of all the amazing things it has to offer. And if you're considering moving here, I highly recommend checking out the BC Newcomers Guide for more information and resources.

​According to the BC Newcomers Guide, newcomers to Vancouver may experience some culture shock due to the city's unique blend of cultures and outdoor-focused lifestyle.

https://www.welcomebc.ca/Start-Your-Life-in-B-C/documents/BC-Newcomers-Guide-English.aspx

Here are 5 references from the link:

1. "The average cost of rent in the province of British Columbia is higher than the Canadian average" (page 34)
2. "In general, drinking alcohol in public is illegal in British Columbia" (page 60)
3. "Vancouver is known for its mild weather and is one of the warmest cities in Canada" (page 15)
4. "There are several ways to meet people in British Columbia, including joining social groups, clubs and organizations" (page 58)
5. "Vancouver has a high homeless population, especially in the Downtown Eastside neighborhood" (page 28)


Note: Page numbers may vary depending on the version of the document.

Hi there, welcome to my blog!
It has been ages since I got back to writing. My desk is overlooking a wide window allowing sunlight to open my thoughts to be penned today.​

​I am here to share my journey of living in different cities around the world. I left my hometown in 2008 for studies and since then, I have stayed in 4 cities and called them my home. My present city is Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

​Starting a new life with my wife here wasn't an easy decision. I left my job in Nigeria, my comfortable life, and started to rebuild my life in a new city. It was a big step but one that we were excited to take. We have been wanting to live like this ever since.

The city of Vancouver has been so welcoming for us. I like the pace of life here. It is slow and rewarding at the same time. However, life is demanding too, and one should not let their nonchalant ways of life take over here. There is a very thin line between having a slow life and being laid back. It has been over a month now (at the time of writing this article), and I am still adjusting to the new city.

​Moving to a new city is never easy, and it can be a rollercoaster of emotions. Excitement, nervousness, and curiosity are just a few of the emotions that come to mind. As someone who has done this multiple times, I can say that each city has its own unique charm, but the initial transition period can be a bit overwhelming.

However, Vancouver has been different. The city's beautiful landscapes, the friendly locals, and the welcoming atmosphere have made the transition a lot smoother. The city has a lot to offer, and I am excited to explore it all.

​Now, let's talk a bit about the city itself. Vancouver is a city surrounded by water on three sides, which means the only way to expand is by building up. The space is very urban and condensed within a small area, characterized by residential high-rises and office blocks that contribute to a fantastic skyline. The entire area is circled by the sea, providing access to the Vancouver Seawall and many beaches that are only a short walk away.

The Downtown area includes the famous Stanley Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, offering more than 1,000 acres of park encircled by the seawall. English Bay to the south of downtown offers a collection of sandy beaches (English Bay Beach, Second Beach, Third Beach, and Sunset Beach) when you need a break from the city.

Living in Vancouver, the rain can be one of the toughest things about Vancouver life. However, moving here in late March means enjoying early spring. The upside to the dreary rainy winter weather, however, is that when it’s raining in the city, it’s usually snowing on the nearby mountains, allowing for snow sports like downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

In conclusion, living in a new city can be an emotional rollercoaster, but Vancouver has been a welcoming and beautiful city that has made the transition a lot smoother for me and my wife. As we continue to explore this city, I am excited to share our journey with all of you. As the famous writer Paulo Coelho once said, "If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine; it is lethal." So let's embrace this adventure together!

 Pokhran, the only thing that strikes to your mind when you first hear this name is that this tiny village in Rajasthan was the test site for India’s first underground nuclear weapon and the train of thoughts will take you to picturize John Abraham if you are a Bollywood buff ! Planning a trip to such a place doesn’t come naturally and that’s exactly why you should visit Pokhran.

​Located conveniently between Jodhpur & Jaisalmer, Pokhran is also connected to Bikaner and serves as a perfect pit stop for “tourists” visiting the rather conventional locations to enjoy the highly commercialised heritage of Rajasthan. But if you are a raw traveller looking for offbeat experiences, try and spend some days in this quaint village and immerse in the authentic Rajasthani culture.

A direct flight from Delhi to Jodhpur & 3 hours in a cab which can be arranged in advance by tying up with the local hotels will take you to Pokhran. It’s a sleepy town and gives a very rustic feeling. As you drive in, the highway is lined up with stalls selling Cham Cham ( a sweet delicacy), which was too sweet for my taste but is perfect for people having sugar rush. Its unusual to find a decent place to stay in such a small village, however Fort Pokhran was a pleasant discovery! ​Hidden in the by-lanes at the heart of the city lies this majestic Fort partly transformed into a heritage hotel and managed by the royal family of Jodhpur themselves.

The minute you enter the royal gates you are transported into an era of royal Rajputana household. The walls are of red sandstone, the windows have colourful glasses, the jharokhas, the lush green gardens and the fountains all ensemble together to provide an environment that is peaceful, elegant and positive. The royal gates do shut away the dusty roads and the blaring chaos of the traffic, to bring a tranquil atmosphere to relax and unwind. 

You can spend half a day just to explore the property or have breakfast by the pool, but if you are a curious soul, the fort also has an in-house museum with a very interesting curator “Feni ji”as fondly called by the people. A man with unlimited stories about the galore of the kings who ruled Pokhran, Feni ji will surely repaint history for you while showing the artefacts at the museum. Enjoy the authentic Laal Maas or Gatta curry at the hotel for lunch cooked by chefs who also cater the royal family ! You can have your moment of feeling like the king/ queen because the hospitality showered by each and every person within the premises is no less than that provided to royalty. The servers are quick and diligent to serve hot sumptuous meals with dollops of desi ghee on your plate, the concierge is warm and welcoming and almost everyone amongst the staff greets you with a smiling khamaa ghani the minute you pass them. In the evening the hotel can arrange a ride to witness the majestic sunset at the Salt flats.

​A half an hour drive from the heart of the village and you will land at That - a small village near Pokhran. If you have ever been to Rann of Kutch or ever wondered what it is like to be surrounded by vast barren lands of salts extending till the horizon with no human soul or vegetation around and stare at nothingness, this place exactly serves the purpose. A swift off roading turn from the kutcha roads will lead you inside vast & endless lands of white salt flats. There are no markers or directions to lead you to the spot and once you are in the open lands, its very easy to get lost & keep circling to find a way out, so we recommend having a local guide along. Luckily we had Sishupal ji with his iconic Mahindra Jeep & Nathu ram ji from fort Pokhran to guide us into this majestic white land.

The sunset is pristine & clear and so is the moon rise. You have a 360 degree view of the horizon around you as you walk on the mushy ground freshly brewing salt. It becomes pitch dark in the night so if you need a Alia Bhatt Highway moment on a full moon night, this is the place to be!
Fort Pokhran also organises camp nights at the salt flats upon request. Imagine having an exclusive tent under a full moon night surrounded by crystal white sand & hot barbecue! Isn’t that what you call an offbeat experience!

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​Next day visit the Royal Cenotaph. A rickety 20 minutes ride from the fort will land you to a very filmy location. A discreet off-road turn leading to a single line railway track, the last motorable point. As you descend, you witness 7-8 monumental structures at a distance on a small hill. The Royal Cenotaph or the Shakti Mata Memorial is a series of domes constructed to honour the queens of the era who had sacrificed their lives in the then prevalent Sati pratha.  Sati is a banned funeral custom; historically queens had to immolate themselves upon the death of their kings in battles to protect their honour & commitment of being a kshtriya. The act was considered as valiant & heroic, however with time it became more of a forced torture & eventually was banned in the country.
A monument dedicated to these sacrifices made by women should have been a place of peace & divine to honour their souls. While the locals do pay their respects at the site, chards of broken beer bottles, pigeon poop and hanging bats speak volumes about the neglect of this shrine.
As the sun goes down, the air bears a certain chill and the silence in the atmosphere is overwhelming. If you want a spooky adventure, this place should be on your list. However be there after sunset at your own risk!

Following day spend some time to explore the local handicrafts & artisans in neighbouring villages.  Ever wondered why Fab India charges a bomb for a simple looking piece of fabric? Well because each & every thread weaved together to produce the cloth which is further stitched together to produce an outfit is a painstakingly skilful procedure done with bare hands. Pokhran is home to exquisite handicraft work, a dying skill that needs to be revived to preserve the heritage of this place. Although the royal family hosts a few weavers within the premises of Fort Pokhran and provides them a platform to sell their work to the incoming tourist, it’s a long way to go for long term sustenance. Gomat a tiny village few kilometres away from the fort is home to these exceptionally talented weavers who produce the “Pattu work “on variety of shawls, bedsheets, Kurtis, cushion covers etc. Weaving has instilled courage in the women living in the veil to be financially independent and earn a respectable place in the society. It has not only generated employment but also empowered women to take part in decision making. This dying art form needs the attention it deserves at a wider platform to reach people in search of something beautiful and elegant. You can indulge in trying a hand at pottery or weaving for a wholesome experience for free !! The locals are more than welcoming to encourage you to appreciate the art.

Our perception about this beautiful country has largely been influenced by American movies, is that why we don't really consider Russia for a holiday destination. More so, The greatest Briton of all time, Winston Churchill famously remarked that Russia was "a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma."
I say, you need to visit before you form a perception, oh and leave room for a huge surprise! 

​I reached the Russian Capital at around midnight, with a few friends that I had made in St. Petersburg. The train ride was picturesque with a lot of greenery and open fields to gaze at. We checked into Moscow Marriott Grand Hotel on Tverskaya street, which is the main radial street. We decided to explore the city while it was relieved of its hustle bustle. The enticing back alleys and charming side streets that branch off of Tverskaya street are filled with hole in the wall eateries that are open late and serve some delicious food. The few people on the streets were hospitable and extremely helpful to point us back to our hotel when we lost our way.

The day started with a visit to the famous Moscow Kremlin, it overlooks the Moskva river and is situated in the heart of the city. Kremlin happens to be the seat of the present Russian government and houses the Kremlin Museum and the Armory. Its business as usual at the State Kremlin Palace, a swanky modern building which remains unobstructed by the flocking tourists. I stood gobsmacked staring at this splendid building, which has been destroyed time and again and yet here it stood in all its might. Of course, like a tourist I did click pictures with the Tsar canon and the Tsar bell, which are on display on Kremlin ground.

​The Armory was riveting. The belongings of the Russian Royals take you back into a totally different time. The halls are adorned with gold, silver, precious stones, ivory, porcelain. The clothes of the Tsars and Tsarinas, the royal jewels too are in display to make us commoners pine for the Royal life. It was absorbing to see the daunting Ivory throne of Ivan The Terrible, the many carriages of the royal family and of Course the world-famous Fabergé Easter eggs, said to be made for the Russian Tsars Alexander III and Nicholas II as Easter gifts for their wives and mothers.

By evening I was standing in middle of UNESCO world heritage site. No feeling in the world compared to the experience of standing in middle of the Red Square. It was simply magical, especially in the evening when the whole place is lit up.  The stunningly mesmerizing colorful domes of the St. Basil’s cathedral left me breathless. I had seen it in movies, and they did not do it justice, it was the most beautiful thing I had laid eyes upon. It is said that the creator of this onion shaped place of worship was blinded so that he could never make anything this beautiful! The crimson walls of the Kremlin were imposing and the shining star atop the Kremlin museum was everything I had hoped Moscow would be. How could I not visit the famous GUM department store and gorge on famous Russian ice creams. They were all I ate that day! The kid in me was ecstatic. One last look at the lit up Red Square and I was back to my hotel with hands filled with ice cream and treats from the GUM.

​The next day too started with insight into the Russian cold war History at Bunker 42.  This meant going underground at the depth of 65 meters, damn those stairs. But it was undeniably worth the effort. Being one of the many once secret military facilities of the USSR, it was meant to serve as the communication headquarters in the event of a nuclear attack. It was completely equipped with food storage, fuel, air regeneration and vent filter systems (now that would make for a very cool spy film). It has now been converted into a cold war museum. The 20-minute movie about the cold war was educational and so were rare exhibits: Soviet radio stations, chemical protective suits, masks, Soviet posters and Stalin’s office.  I quite enjoyed the perceptiveness about the important role that it played. 

As much as I wanted to visit the world-famous Bolshoi theatre and watch ballet, I could not. There was a lot that I could not see, consoling myself with a second tour. I came back fascinated and ever more so curious about this picturesque country with a bag full of goodies and a heart filled with memories. Oh wait, I think I left my heart in Russia!

After having my visa application rejected by the American Embassy, Russia was the obvious choice for a holiday. Russian visa was not extremely hard to get! My obsession with Russia could not be contained any longer. First stop was going to be St. Petersburg, formerly known as Petrograd and Leningrad.

I landed at the Pulkovo airport in St. Petersburg, on a fine June afternoon. After clearing immigration, it was a long but scenic ride to Corinthia Hotel in the Nevsky Prospect.

The city was decorated and there was much pomp and show, the people were out on the streets. I checked into the hotel. On inquiring I was told that I got lucky as the city was celebrating Scarlet Sails, which happens to be the most massive and famous event at the end of school year. 

Honestly, I had not done much research about the city. After changing into my party clothes. I stepped out to explore the city, on foot. Before that, it was a pit stop to one of the many cafes that line the streets of Nevsky Prospect. As I sat outside one of the cafes and absorbed the breath-taking view while sipping my vodka, I thought about how fascinated I had been about the glorious and bloody Russian history, its architecture, the Tzars and Tsarinas and all the powerplay that Russia has to offer. The architectural beauty of the city is breath-taking. You are surrounded by old European styled building, without any modern building in the heart of the city. 

A unique way to admire the Russian Venice is to take a night boat ride through rivers/channels. You get a totally different perspective of the city, the monuments on the riverbanks are lit up and they take your breath away.  It was around 9:30 pm and I was surprised to see the sun. That is how St. Petersburg gets another nickname “The City of White Nights”. It’s a natural phenomenon which arises due to its closeness to the polar region and ensures that in summer the nights do not get completely dark for a month (don’t forget to draw the curtains before you sleep) !

That night when I finally went to bed at around 3 am, I could not help but marvel at the beauty and the history of the city. Scarlet sails ended with spectacular fireworks and water show, which was preceded by music concerts and a whole lot of celebration.

Next morning began with a trip to the Peterhof Palace. As you move towards the outskirts, there is change in the scenery, modern architecture is now visible.  Peterhof Palace is splendid. It has beautiful mesmerizing gardens. Its aptly called as The Capital of Fountains, with as many as 64 fountains; The Grand Cascade and Samson fountain being the biggest (do get splashed by the many fountains!). The Palace with its history about the painted roof, paintings, gardens and fountains is truly symbolic and a sight to behold.
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The Winter Palace was next. The unique color combination of green and white makes the exterior of the palace an impressive sight. What is more impressive is that it houses the World-famous museum: The Hermitage. The Hermitage is the world’s second largest art museum, which houses a whopping 3 million items. You can learn a lot about the Russian history there. An hour a half was not enough to even cover half the museum. But do check out the famous Peacock Clock, which was a gift to Catherine The Great. A splendid example of 18th century robotics to have survived into the 21st century, unaltered.

As much as I would have liked to cover more of the city, I was short on time. I set out for a quick city tour, where I saw The Bronze Horseman (a monument to Peter The Great), the stunning dome of St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Kazan Cathedral (the biggest in the city) to name a few. From the bridges in the Nevsky Prospect you can see the iconic landmark, the colorful domes of The Saviour On The Spilled Blood Cathedral. It is a beauty at dusk. How could I miss seeing the famous drawbridges, it’s a show with lights and music. The bridges are drawn to let ships in and out.
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My last day there started with a quick stop to the Catherine Palace, the summer residence of the tsars. From there it was on to Peter and Paul Fortress, the original citadel of the city. The museums inside throw light on the origin and history of the city. A little bit of shopping (Russian vodka and chocolates) and then I was on a train to my next destination- Moscow! 

In our previous blog we shared our experience on Theog, Himachal Pradesh and how did we manage to reach our hotel.  We also talked about our wonderful spa session.
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If you haven't read, here is a quick link Theog - A Quiet Escape Into The Mountains Part 1.

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The next Day (Day 3) started at 6:00 a.m. with another hike uphill, crossing paths with a Tibetan house with a history of war. It was the only house in an around 1000 acres of land which survived the war. The hike was planned to enjoy the mother nature, away from the city stress.  Point of being away from crowded Shimla town was achieved. 

Its funny how one never sulks about being sleepy or any misadventures coming your way when you are in mountains.
On the slopes of these pine tree covered mountains we came across a quaint lil village with just about handful of houses. Almost all of them had a House With A view, perfectly nestled  to soak in the views and savor the serenity. Most of the houses still had the old traditional charm with mud walls and cobbled roofs resting on wooden logs.

Our path was smooth and uneventful, surrounded by Pine trees and patch of small apple orchards. We found ourselves admiring the beauty of the woods and the vegetation covered with fresh snow. The sun rays could not touch the forest floor as the treetops which created a canopy over our head were dense. There was a gentle breeze, creating the single sound of rustling leaves. The leaves appeared as though they were dying to fall out of the tree and join their companions on the forest floor. Together with pine needles and other flora the leaves formed a thick springy carpet for us to walk upon.

The whole setting was augmented by bird chirpings and rustling leaves, giving us our moment of the morning session of mindfulness. But.........
Our little conversation with our instructor/guide filled the air with folklores of Theog. He surprised us by carrying 2 portable chairs & a foldable table. Not to forget he had a picnic kit ( Tea, muffins and some peanut + jaggery bars.  Spending about an hour in the wilderness, we spoke about how the most dramatic elements of the area were the majestic trees themselves. Tall and stately, glowing red trunks and high crowns towering over a thick vegetation with grasses and native plants. We even started planning for our next vacation. 

Our conversation was interrupted by our guide announcing that it was time to go back. The walk, back to the hotel was filled with complete silence. We were reminiscing about the hike already, as if it had happened a long time ago. The mountain view remained same, but the commercially ploughed slopes, now, had farmers working on them and the melted snow has made the dirt road muddy.

We thought, we would call it a day, and then we got a call from one of our friends who was in Shimla. He insisted to join them in Kufri (15kms from Theog). After a quick (brunch), we reached Kufri by around 1:00 p.m. as the roads were clear and there was no patch of snow/ice over them. We rented our winter gear, and got us a funny ride to the top of the hill. The donkeys were used to carry the tourists to the top, one can also choose to hike all the way up, but the snow fall made it all the way more difficult.  The narrow path to the top of the hill was hanging at the edge of the slop. Every turn seemed impossible and scary. The whole valley down was covered with fresh powdery snow. After spending couple of hours playing in the snow, we were devilishly hungry and hence decided to driver to Shimla for dinner. We spent the late evening at a classic Gastro Pub 'The Brew Estate'. Post Dinner, we took a stroll around the famous Mall Road and the adjacent narrow streets of The Christ Church. People were flocking around carrying their umbrellas and the street was busy in spite of the continuous snow fall. Life in mountains is tough, we told to ourselves.
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The day could not have got better than this with the cumulative experience of hill top stay, mountain view, apple orchards, bird spotting, breath of fresh air, fog covered valley, snow fall and meeting a friend. We successfully disconnected from our daily mundane life and reconnected with the surroundings.

The journey to Theog ( Himachal Pradesh ) was a planned vacation. This hamlet of less than 5,000 people is well-connected to the rest of Himachal Pradesh via National Highways 5 and 705. It started around 1.30pm from Chandigarh Airport (Punjab) which is about 150 kms to our destination.

The journey was filled with excitement, as it was going to be an action packed 4 days tour. The windows were down ( in the initial leg of our journey) music was on and 100 miles of adventure to be covered on your wheels. Inspite of the weather being distinctively windy, we pulled off at many places to admire the valley and the surrounding beauty. 
We were half way through, just about to cross Shimla ​( 30 kms away from Taj Theog ) as the snow started falling, it made it difficult to drive. What was a wonderful journey so far, now, has turned into once in a life time experience for us. The S-curve road and the sharp U-turns of the mountains, covered with snow made the 1hr drive to a 4 long hrs., as the vehicle wheels kept skidding over the thin ice sheets even at a speed of 10 kmph. Out of sheer joy we could not stop asking our driver ‘Sirji’ (name of the car driver) to stop the car as we were amazed by the outside view and the snowfall.

​After few minutes of play with snow we were chilled to our bones, we could not even switch on the heater as the car was not a 4 wheel drive and we could not afford the engine to seize. The last leg of the journey was muddy and off-road upwards drive to the top of a hill where , 'Taj' which was recently opened, was nestled.

Don’t be fooled by the ordinary gate of the TAJ property. The ground staff escorted us on an eco-friendly buggy ( sort of golf cart ) to the Portico of the main building. The small patch of buggy ride was steep and the strong chilly winds were making it less enjoyable. But the entrance that leads to the lobby was exquisite.  The fascinating warm welcome from the Team Taj, made us forget about our treacherous last mile journey. Be it the security guard or the  receptionist or the Bell Boy, everyone was charged up in that cold Winter night as if the evening just started.
A surprise cake with some cookies along with light supper was arranged for us in our room as it was late in the night. My 1st experience of Taj, Theog was significantly impressive. That was the end of day 1 in Theog.

Our Day 2 was pre-planned. After having early breakfast, followed by leisure reading in the library in the lobby area, we were all set for the couple spa which could rejuvenate and revitalize our senses.
The spa setting was all designed to relax and unwind together. I will definitely recommend you to take  The Soma Spa- as described in the words of  TAJ – “ An ideal choice for couples, Soma therapy includes an Indian aromatherapy massage in a romantic candle-light setting. Our skilled therapists help you relax and set a soothing mood by using evocative oils for the massage. This is followed up with an indulgent rose petal bath together with a bottle of champagne to let you two enjoy time away from the world.“  TAJ Hotels- Jiva Spa
 

​We continued our day after lunch, by  following a short hike to visit to Jai Ambe Mata mandir/ Temple, a pahari form of Kali. We could not find the pandit there but our guide informs us that the inner sanctum was created during ‘the reign of the Pandavas’, but the external structure was rebuilt and taken over by a trust seven years ago. They seem to have aced maintenance and design, for the temple’s walls hold not just Hindu carvings—of Vishwakarma, Hanuman, Brahma, Kali and so on—but also Tibetan Buddhist influences in the form of twin dragons. We spend 45 minutes here, strolling around the outer corridor, clicking pictures of the valley and distant village houses perfectly nestled in the hills amidst the pine trees.
 
As the hike wasn't tiring, we planned an evening hike to the nearest frozen lake. The view beyond is astoundingly cinematic— terrace farms, temple towers, the lush Shivalik range with the snowy Himachal silhouetted behind. The lake is accessible most parts of the summer.  But we couldn't go for it, as the roads were very slippery due to the snowfall and wasn't advisable. More so, we were told by our guide that there is a dreamy picnic spot by the lake, we need permission from villagers to camp at the spot or even light a bonfire .
We decided to spend the evening in the resort exploring the property. The resort was a secluded place and so we had our dinner in-house. This marks an end to our fulfilling day 2.

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and lies about 1400 metres above sea level. This Himalayan city has so much to offer its guests that you need atleast 3-4 days to see & feel it in the truest sense. But in this fast paced life, time is what most people don’t have. So if you have only 2 days to spare in Kathmandu, don’t be disappointed. I have done all the homework for you and have listed down a complete plan for these 2 days so that you don’t miss out anything.

These are the best places to visit or experience most of it can be covered in 2 days:

1. Chandragiri hill – It’s a 30-45 mins drive from the city depending on where you are put up. Leave soon after you check in. Once you reach the foot station, you can buy tickets for the massive 2.5 kms rope way that takes you right up on the Chandragiri hill. The rope way itself is an exhilarating experience that you will remember for a long time. Once you reach the top, you can pray at the Bhaleswor Mahadev temple, stroll in the kids parks or pay a nominal fee to witness the majestic Everest range from an observatory.            

           Entry fee - USD 10 to 25 (depending on your nationality)
           Total Time Required - 3 to 4 hours

​2. Shopping at Durbar Square – On your return from Chandragiri, head straight to the shopping centre of the Kathmandu, the Durbar square (Durbar means palace). This is not only a great shopping destination for artefacts and local crafts, but also the traditional centre of the old town. 
Time Required – 2 hours

​3. Thamel Street – Though you can visit this place any time of the day, it gets vibrant and lively only in the evenings. Thamel hosts several pubs, bars and eating joints; you can see a diverse set of people from different walks of life here. Mountaineers often meet their buddies here before setting off on their expeditions.  Keep all valuables and passport safely with you as some thefts are often reported. Time Required - 2 to 3 hours

4. Food at Bhojan Griha – If you are more interested to see the cultural aspects of the city, head straight for dinner to the Bhojan Griha. Its an authentic Nepali restaurant set up in a 150 year old heritage building. Enjoy the Newari folk dances and music while you sip on the local alcohol and munch on the delectable Newari dishes.
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5. Nagarkot Sunsrise : Next day, you have two early morning options. This is the first one. Nagarkot village is located about 30 kms from the city centre and lies at an elevation of 6800 feet above sea level. This is a guided tour  (though can also be done on your own but its not recommended) which starts at 4:30 am with pickup from the hotel and an hour’s drive. Once you reach, there is a small trail where you must walk before you can witness the beautiful view of the Himalayan sunrise from an observatory. Feel the happiness when you see the snow capped Himalayan mountains turn golden and then a little brown, as the sun rays reflects of the top. Return to hotel by 8:30 am.

6. The Mountain flight – If you have the energy and drive, you can actually do both the Nagarkot sunrise and the morning flight to the Everest, though we leave that up to you (and there's a high chance that you miss the flight). The Mountain flight is a one of its kind experience that provides panoramic views of the Himalayan range from the comfortable seats inside a plane. A window seat is guaranteed and you can book through either Yeti Airlines or Buddha Air. Flights depart from the Domestic Terminal and there are multiple flights between 6 am to 10 am. Costs around INR 7500 per person. Total Duration – Upto 2 hours (flight time of 50 minutes)

7. Temples at Kathmandu – Once you are back from the mountain flight, you can relax at the hotel and the head on a spiritual tour of Kathmandu.

• Swayambhunath temple - Start with Swayambhunath temple as it is one on the opposite direction. Take adequate rest before starting this part of the tour as you have a climb some 365 steep steps only (not recommended for senior citizens). Those who can’t take the stairs can access the car route from behind.  The temple, constructed in around 500 CE, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can find the main Stupa, smaller shrines and temples once you reach the top, Entry fee is applicable for foreign nationals. The temple also offers some magnificent views of the city that you won't be able to see from any other point.
• Boudhanath Stupa:  Also referred to as the Eyes of Nepal, it is one of the largest Buddhist Stupas in South Asia. The Stupa rises to a height of 36 metres and you can feel the spiritual vibes with the buzzing energy of the people circling the stupa. There is a set of Buddha eyes on each side of the Stupa resembling awareness.
• Pashupatinath temple: This holy hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in the 5th Century. One of the most sacred temples for Hindus, the Pashupatinath is located on the banks of Bagmati River and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the largest temple complex in Nepal and it’s a must visit for all. The temple does not allow visitors to click pictures and it is recommended that you respect the rules. Enjoy the calmness inside and give your senses some spiritual break. 

8. Food at Dwarika's: After attaining some enlightenment and feeding the soul, its time to feed the stomach; and what better place than the Dwarika’s (it’s walking distance from the Pashupatinath temple) The hotel was registered in 1977 and the architecture is a tribute to the Nepal’s diverse cultural heritage. The hotel boasts of one of the largest woodwork collection in the world. The hotel has multiple restaurants each offering a different experience. Krishnarpan, the Nepali specialty restaurant, is a slow dining experience with up to 22 course meal options; Mako’s is a Japanese restaurant; Toran offers all day casual dining while Fusion bar is best for Friday evenings. 

Good Food is always a great way to end any tour. This wraps up the 2 day plan for Kathmandu. I hope this was helpful for you. Leave us your feedback in the comments box below or write to us at myroamingspirit@yahoo.com