Trek, Trips and Adventures

Pashan Lake

2011-12-18T05:21:00.000-08:00

Type: Bird Watching site
Near: Pashan, Pune
Route: Hinjewadi road/Sutarwadi
Time visited: December 2011
How to reach: If you reach from sutarwadi side side theres a arch and muddy trail that goes right next to the lake. The other way probably is from the temple side.

Visited Pashan lake yesterday. The chill in morning made the views very exciting. We could see egrets, kingfisher, hopoe, laughing dove, bee eater, drongo, pond heron, ducks, sunbirds etc.

Warvand

2011-12-04T04:31:00.001-08:00

Type: Bird Watching site
Near: Patas
Base Village: Warvand
Where: 60 Kms from Pune
Route: Pune-Solapur road
Time visited: December 2011
How to reach: On Pune Solapur road, after toll road ends, after Kedgaon look for Warvand village. A small road takes you right till reservoir. The road is extremly in bad condition and you may have to park road few meteres before the reservoir.Best Time to visit: Early morning November-January

About: Warvand is a small village and the reservoir is known birding place. It said that you can see Purple Moorhens, Pheasant-tailed Jaçanas, Brahminy Kite, Indian Great Reed Warbler, Cotton Teal, Cormorants, Open-Bill Stork, heron/egret species and variety of ducks

We started at about 6.30 AM. After hearty breakfast and some great snaps on the way we reached Warvand/Varwand by 8/8.30. We parked our car when we no longer could drive in some in small building that looked like a school. A few minutes walk lead to reservoir. There were less nomber of birds as compared to Kavdi but it was worth visit.

Kavdi AKA Kavdipat

2011-11-20T00:17:00.001-08:00

Type: Sunrise and Bird Watching site
Near: Loni Kalbhor
Base Village: Kavdi
Where: 20 Kms from Pune
Route: Pune-Solapur road
Time visited: November 2011
How to reach: On Pune Solapur road, 2 minutes after the toll plaza watch out for Manali Resort. Take a left turn about few meters ahead. Theres a narrow road travelling through farms. Cross the railway crossing and about 1.5 kms ahead park your vehicles in temple complex. The Pat or Bandh as called in marathi is right infront of you.
Best Time to visit: Early morning November-January

About: Kavdi is a small village and is known as birding place. There are more than 50 varities of birds spotted here which include different types of kingfishers, Ibis, Kites, Egrets, Wagtail and Heron birds. Other than that Red vented Bulbuls, Drongo, Sunbird, Hoopoe and variety of stork and ducks can be easily seen.
We started at about 5.30 AM to reach Kavdi Pat in the chilly saturday morning. We reached at about few minutes to six and we were surpised to see few people all set to capture the sunrise with tripods and different cameras.

The entire landscape was breathtaking. The fog had engulfed the area and it was literally flowing rather wandering on the calm of the the river.

As the redness started to spead we could spot some early arrivals. We took our positions right at the center of the bridge to catch few early snaps before the sunrise.

Once the light started to spread across the whole area was filled with chirping of hundreds of birds.

We proceeded back to home at around 10am after a yummy Vadapav. Will cherish forever the mesmerizing sunrise and the beautiful birds.

Updates December 2011: After this weekend I have been several times there to catch more snaps and everytime it simply amazes me.

Kaas- Revisited

2011-10-10T00:19:00.000-07:00

Type: Roaming in wilderness ideal for Family visit
Near: Satara
Where: 120 Kms from Pune
When to vist: Sept to early Oct only
Time visited: Sept 2009, Oct 2010, Oct 2011
Time to see around: 2-3 hours
How to reach: Just before the tunnel near Ajinkyatara theres a road to right which goes all the way to Kaas Plateau. Theres probably a State Transport bus too. Check on Satara ST stand for details.
What to carry: Water bottle, cap and some food items.
Warnings: Reach very early AM to avoid traffic jams. Police will fine you if you pluck flowers or try to wander in flowering areas or are found destroying the flowers. Avoid walking in the flowers.

If you are visiting the blog for fist time please see more details about my earlier visits.

Bhaje Caves

2011-09-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

Type: Caves
Base village: Bhaje near Lonavala
Where: 85 Kms from Pune
Time visited: Sept 2011
Time to see around: 2-3 hours
How to reach: Take a exist towards Malavali on Old Pune-Mumbai highway, After railway crossing cross a fly over on express way to .reach Bhaje Village If you are travelling from expressway you would need to take Lonavala exit and immediately proceed towards Pune on Old Mumbai-Pune highway. Look for signs to Bhaje caves/Malavali exit.

This weekend finally I had a chance to visit Bhaje caves. Well had been to Lohagad and Visapur forts several times, but had always missed Bhaja Caves due to lack of time.

Bhaje Caves are a group of 29 rock-cut caves dating back to 200 BC near Lonavala, Maharashtra and is considered one of the oldest Buddhist centers in the Deccan.

There is ample parking at the base in Bhaje village. The same road takes you to historic duel forts- Lohagad & Visapur. In Rainy season there is a huge waterfall near the parking. A flight of steps (around 0.5 hrs climb) will take you to these caves.

The most impressive cave is right at the entrance, with open, horseshoe-arched entrance part.

There are upper levels caves with flight of small stairs on both sides of this cave.

There are some large and small empty halls with platforms on this floor probably for meditations.

The most remarkable feature of this cave are the wooden rafters that support the arched roof that have survived over 100 of years!

Notable part of the monument is a group of 14 stupas, five inside and nine outside in a cave.

In group of last caves one of them which has fine carvings. There is a room which could have been temple or something and has carvings on the outer wall. In the picture is the carving on the left hand side of the entrance to a room.

Carvings on the right side of the door are as beautiful as on the left. There is a waterfall close to this cave which is active in mosoon.

Various inscriptions can be seen in the caves.

Wax Museum, Lonavala

2011-09-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Type: Wax Museum
Base City: Lonavala
Where: 80 Kms from Pune
Time visited: Sept 2011
Time to see around: 1 hour
How to reach: It’s few kms on old Pune-Mumbai highway. If you are travelling from expressway you would need to take Lonavala exit and immediately proceed towards Pune on Old Mumbai-Pune highway. It few kms ahead at Varsoli towards Pune.
Website: http://www.celebritywaxmuseum.com

Lonavala, the hillstation know for its scenic beauty especially around rainy season has new feather in its cap- Celebrity Wax Museum.

Since its open from 8.30AM-9.30PM its very easy to accomadate this in your lonavala sight seeing.

The impressive wax sculptures are created by Sunil Kandalloor, a fine arts graduate.

The museum boasts over 30 statues right from Spiritual Leaders, politicians, musicians to international fame like Hitler, Saddam Hussein, Angelina Jolie and Miachel Jackson.

Per an old article in newspaper it takes about one full month to complete each statue and the average cost is approximately over one lakh per statue.

Temples of Bhadurgad

2011-08-28T22:06:00.000-07:00

Laxmi Narayan Temple

Of all temples in Bhardurgad Fort AKA Dharmaveer gad, the Laxmi Narayan temple a Hemadpanthi temple, is the best preserved and is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India. Here are few pics

The temple as exquiste carvings on the outer side.

Various figures of God and Godess alond with figures in dance poses are carved.
Note the designer windows.

The entrance door has very fine carvings.

A more close-up view of the carving on entrance doors.

The interiors of the temple is as beautiful as outside. All the pillars have fine carvings.

Details ate base of a pillar

The window design from inside.

Shiv Temple- opposite Laxmi Narayan Temple

Laxmi Narayan temple view

Detail design on top of the door frame

Door Frame

Door frame base

From behind

Bhadurgad AKA Dharmaveer gad

2011-08-28T21:45:00.000-07:00

Type: Land Fort
Base Village: Pedgaon
Where: 130 Kms from Pune, 15/20 Kms from Shrigonda off Daund
Route: Kunthalgiri-Bhoom-Kharda-Jamkhed-Pedgaon
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: 4 hours
How to reach: It’s near Daund, off Daund-Nagar higway or can be easily reached from Shrigonda village.
My Meter reading from Pune: Pune 1190 Kms

History: Bahadurgad , the major Mughal camp was said to have been built by Bahadur Khan Kokaltash, the mughal viceroy to the Deccan. It has several names including Bhadhurgad, pedgaon cha killa and Dharmaveer gad.

This historic fort is famous for two things-

Shivaji Raje had heard the news of the arrival of the two hundred trained arabian stallions at Bahadurgad He deliberately leaked the news that he was planning to attack Bahadurgad. Intially 2000 men attacked the fort and then chose to retreat with Bahadur Khan chasing with his full might. Luring the mughals away from the fort by well over 20kms, the marathas dissappeared in the thick woods. Meanwhile the remaining 7000 odd maratha contingent attacked the fort, taking away all the gold and horses. Sambhaji Raje along with his wife was also said to be imprisoned here by Diler Khan when he fell out with Shivaji Mharaj. Later after death of Shivaji, in 1689, When Sambhaji Raje was captured at Sangameshwar, he was brought to Bahadurgad, as a prisoner. Sambhaji Raje and Kavi Kalash were subjected to a horrific torture when they did not accept to be converted to Islam. Bahadurgad has been renamed as Dharmaveergad in the memory of Sambhaji raje.

Except for a few monuments and broken down walls and bastions, theres nothing left. As you enter through the arch there is welcoming board and next to it is a shiv mandir.

Ruins of Jain thirthankars and other idols are kept nearyby.

Amongst the several temples inside the fort, there are the Bhawani mata temple (fortified by a stone wall), the Hanuman temple (with a large Hanuman image in saffron), the Ganesha temple and some very old Yadavkaalin temples (built in the Hemadpanthi style) including the Rameshwar temple, the Mallikarjun temple, the Laxmi Narayan temple and the Baleshwar temple.

Another temple.

There are some statues of Lord Ganesh and Jain Thirthankars found near by are kept in this Shiv temple..

Of all these Hemadpanthi temples, the Laxmi Narayan temple is the best preserved and is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India.

A temple opposite to this is also worth dekko.

Please refer to the details page about these temples.

The Hatti-chi moat used to draw water is worth seeing.

The terracotta pipes (holes in the pics) supplying water to palaces and darbar is clearly seen at the structure where water used to be poured. This is just on the left of Laxmi Narayan temple and in front is 'Hatta-chi moat'.

The 3 floor palaces with magnificent view of river below are now completely in ruins.

Several rooms had beautiful arches and 'zaroka' on the roof. One of the room was a sort of secret hiding room.

The terracotta piping is clearly seen in bathrooms. It said that they had tubs and there is small room for babies with baby tub. The water markings are seen clearly.

This structure is seen below in the river. Not sure what is this but could haveen used as deck for fishing and other boats?

The only structure now remains of the darbar are the main arch. There is a pillar placed in the centre offering a tribute and depicting where Shambhaji raje would have been made to stand when captured.

The fencing fortification wall is seen clearly on side of river.

This was Nal Dwar or gate probably used for fetching river water for localites.

With emotional memories we preceded back home via Daund. On the way had wonderful dinner at Kanchan dhaba, our regular spot on Solapur highway.

Kharda AKA Shivpattan Fort

2011-08-28T21:35:00.000-07:00

Type: Land Fort
Base Village: Kharda
Where:??Kms from Pune, 55 Kms from Osmanabad
Route: Kunthalgiri-Bhoom-Kharda
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: 1 hour
How to visit: It’s in between Bhoom village and Jamkhed.
My Meter reading from Pune: ? Kms

The road from Kunthalgiri via Bhoom to kharda was in terrible condition. Kharda is just few kms before Jamkhed and is also known as Shivpattan. The fort was closed and after inquiry nearby a old person agreed to show us inside. He got the keys and were inside the historic fort in few minutes.

Kharda is famous for the Battle of Kharda fought between the Marathas under the Peshwa of Pune and the Nizam of Hyderabad, in 1795. This was the last battle of Marathas and the Nizam was badly defeated.

Maratha Sardars from far away places like Mudhol and Nagpur participated on behalf of Marathas. Sultanraje Nimbalkar of Kharda had raised infantry of Dagars (tribals from Rajputana who migrated to Maharashtra in 12th century). This infantry led by Sonusingh Bias, killedar of Dharur had shown extreme valor finishing off Nizam's Afghan infantry. Nizam had to pay Rs 29 Lakh as a fine when the treaty was signed.

The fort was built by the Nimbalkars in 1745 and Sultanraje Nimbalkar was the last ruler of this fort. It is square in shape, and very strongly built with cut stone walls about thirty feet high and a ditch now entirely ruined. The walls have a very massive gateway and two gates at right angles to each other.

There nothing much to inside and almost it’s a flat ground except a small mosque and water well.

There is a cellar of about and also an underground gymnasium.

Theres a deep well.

The well has staricase leading to a second level to draw water in summer.

The strength of fortification wall is visible from the Buruj.

After a lunch in Jamkhed, we proceeded to our next destination- Bhadurgad via Shrigonda.

Kunthalgiri Sidhha Kshetra

2011-08-28T21:25:00.000-07:00

Type: Jain Digamber Sidhha kshetra
Base Village: Kunthalgiri
Where: 228 Kms from Pune, 70 Kms from Osmanabad
Route: Nanded-Loha-Kandhar-Parli Vaijnath- Ambajogai-Dharur-Kunthalgiri
Time visited: August 2011
How to reach: While travelling from Osmanabad you have to take a left turn to the kshetra at Saramkundi Phata. Saramkundi Phata is a junction which cannot be easily missed as this is famous for Khawa, Pedhe and many milk made products and you would see several shops at the junction. The khawa is really yummy and was priced at 160rs/kg.
Various Lodging-Boarding facilities are available at the kshetra. The Vip suites are well equiped.
My Meter reading from Pune: 940 Kms

This Siddha Kshetra is situated on 175 feet high hill. Two ancient images of foot pairs of Kul Bhushan & Desh Bhushan are installed here in the main temple built in around 1932.

Per legend, Kunthalgiri is said to be the only place of southern India from where two ascetic saints named Shri Kul Bhushan & Desh Bhushan achieved salvation and went to Moksha during period of Ram. Shri Kul Bhushan & Desh Bhushan were princes of the state, who sacrificed everything and achieved salvation.

Kunthalgiri is also famous for the samadhi-sthal of Acharya Shanti Sagarji Maharaj.

There are well built steps to the temples on the hill.

On the topmost level there is huge statue of Bhaubali Bhagwan.

The main temple view.

Main Temple & Idol :
Main temple of Kunthalgiri is Shri Kul Bhushan – Desh Bhushan Mandir known as Bara Mandir with 3 feet high statutes. There are various temples with Idols of Shantinath, Munisuvratnath & Adinath bhagwan and other Thirthankars.

Dharur Fort

2011-08-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

Type: Land Fort/Hill fort
Base Village: Dharur
Where: 306 Kms from Pune, 72 Kms from Beed
Route: Nanded-Loha-Kandhar-Parli Vaijnath- Ambajogai-Dharur
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: 1/1.5 hours
How to visit: The best way is to approach from Beed. Its on Tuljapur-Beed highway. Bust since I was approaching from Nanded, I chose Parli Vaijnath- Ambajogai-Dharur road. Theres a left turn while going towards beed. One or two more turns will take you to outskirts of the village where the depleted structure can be easily identified.
My Meter reading from Pune: 840 Kms

Dharur Fort is built on plain on Palghat hills and natural protection by valleys around three sides and a trench built to protect from the front. Unless you enter it the valleys are not seen and it appears as complete land fort.

Dharur is referred in the donation given by rashtrakuta king, Govina III as Dharur. Before Aurangzed captured, it changed many hands including kingdoms of Bijapur, Bidar and Ahmednagar. The village was called Abad during times of Aurangzeb.

The main door was filled with water from the recent rains and was unapproachable. We climbed by right side through the broken remains. But the main door has two massive bastions on either side. A small pathway through this gate leads to an open ground.

On the right side another watch tower and below seemed like trench filled with water but the boy whom we had taken as guide mentioned it as a water tank.

The magnitude of construction can be gauged as you walk across the remains of the buruj.

On the left once you climb down main buruj you can walk over the fortification wall which over looks the water tank. The fort also contains three big wells.

The fortification’s walls are so thick that you can easily drive a 4 wheeler over it!

We didnt venture deep inside where there broken reamins of few building and Rang Mahal and Jama Masjid.

As sun started spreading is orange on the west with wonderful memories we started towards Kunthalgiri.

Kandhar Fort

2011-08-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

Type: Land Fort
Base Village: Kandhar
Where:??Kms from Pune, 55 Kms from Nanded Approx
Route: Nanded-Loha-Kandhar
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: 2.5 hours
How to visit: Take a diversion from Loha to Kandhar. Its about 15 kms from the junction. Pass the town and a long narrow lane with twists and turns will lead leads to the fort.
Meter reading from Pune: 680 Kms

This awesome that fort was built by Somesvara, ruler of Kandhar. Rashtrakuta King Krishna III (AD 940-967) of Malkhed who styled himself as Kandharpuradhi Swar added considerable buildings to the fort. It offers a panoramic view of the surroundings.

The fort changed many hands. Inscriptions of Adil Shah are found at few places (AD 1578). Later it was under control of Nizam Shah (first) from whom Shahjhan had captured after a tough fight.

Spread over 25 acres of fortification with having 16 bastions to guard and double protection of trench filled with water.

The archaeology department has well maintained the place with proper board signs explaining the intricate details of each structure or carvings.

Some sculptures found nearby by are kept in the fort. Worth watching is huge Idol in lying down position. Although it is now all broken down, the magnitude can be easily gauged from the each part of the idol. There are some Jain thirthankar idols too like Parshwant and Mahavir bhagwan.

Lot of shilalekh or scripts are found at various places across the forts.

The two storied Shish Mahal was built during Adilshahi regime was complete with toilet and water system, cooling system, small garden and tank. All the small windows once had stained glasses.

The brickwork masonry of Daru Kothar is really amazing. Lot of cannon balls are still well preserved.

The Lal Mahal with fountain was probably built during Mughal period later modified and used as office by Nizam of hyederabad.

The huge cannon on the main buruj overlooking Kandhar city is worth watching. I forgot but this probably had lion head.

The prisoners cell, masjid, tehsil office and all other remains of the building are worth dekko.

One of the building had underground cellar had a wonderful ceiling with 'zaroka'. The brickwork was constructed in such a way that it seemed like shining star!

With wonderful memories we proceeded to our next destination- Dharur.

Nanded

2011-08-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

Where: 450 Kms Approx from Pune via Nagar
Route: Tuljapur-Ausa-Nilanga-Udgir-Nanded
Time visited: August 2011
Meter reading from Pune: 635 Kms

Nanded city is famous for Gurudwara. Guru Gobind Singh, the guru of the Sikhs attained martyrdom in Nanded hence a Gurudwara was built here.

We reached in evening around 5PM. I was amazed to see well-built efficient 4 lane entry and exit points for Nanded. Within few minutes of crossing new bridge we were in the heart of the city. After checking in Ramakrishna hotel we relaxed for few hours.

We proceeded to Gurudwara which was close by around 2 kms from our hotel.

The whole place was amazingly lit in soft lights and looks magical in evenings. It was extremely clean and all the friendly security guard assisted visitors. Even though there were more that 3-4 thousand people at least there was absolutely no chaos.

Worth watching was gold painted interiors of Gurduwara.

The entrance door from inside looked astounding.

After quick darshan we had the Prasad we preceded for the laser show which was supposed to be in the garden just few minutes behind the Gurudwara. Unfortunately it was closed that day due to technical snag.

But the garden was very beautiful will colourful fountains and soft lighting. Very wll maintained and truly worth visit.

After a hearty dinner, we hit the bed by 10 after an eventful day! Next day after quick Toast and Coffe we headed for Kandhar. It seems Nanded has more than 30 Guridwaras. The ghat was just waking up and looked fresh and inviting from the bridge.

Udgir Fort

2011-08-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

Type: Land Fort
Base Village: Udgir
Where:396Kms from Pune, 149Kms from Tuljapur
Route: Tuljapur-Ausa-Nilanga-Udgir
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: 1.5 hour
How to visit: After ST Bus stand take a right turn. It’s at the end of that lane.
Meter reading from Pune: 520 Kms

Udgir is famous for the historic battle between Marathas led by Sadashivrao Bhau and Nizam in 1759. Sadashivrao Bhau bravely defeated Nizam. The fort of Udgir is said to be built by the king of Bahamani.

The fort is bounded by a 40 feet deep trench which is now overgrown with bushes.

There are two main watch towers- one immediately at the entrance which overlooks the Udgir city.

There is a huge canyon called Suryamookhi on this buruj.

Another cannon.

There are few remains of palaces next to this tower. The second floor had rooms which seemed like Seesh-Mahal...

The other watch tower is at the far right end from where you can see Samadhi of Udaygir Maharaj below and the entire buildings in the fort.

There are several palaces and Durbar halls.

The fountain is worth dekko.

The scence from the other end watch tower.

The strength of this fort was in the double fortification. The Samadhi of Udaygir Maharaj is on the right hand side before you enter through second gate and is 60 feet under the normal ground level.

It is believed that the Udgir fort has a direct deep underground soorang (tunnel) connection with Bhalki & Dharur Fort.

Ugdgir landacape city from the buruj

We proceeded to Nanded for stay.

Kharosa Caves

2011-08-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

Type: Caves
Base Village: Kharosa (Few kms before Nilanga)
Where:370 KMs from Pune, 42Kms from Latur, 27Kms from Ausa
Route: Off Latur
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: 1 hour
How to visit: There’s a left turn for caves of about 1 or 2 kms after the Kharosa village exit off Ausa-Udgir highway few kms before Nilanga. A tar road takes right up to the caves.
Meter reading from Pune: 445 Kms

There are around 12 caves believed to build in 6^th century.

The first cave is Buddhist.

A freshly coloured statue of Lord Buddha is seen in sitting position.

There are few caves with shivling and one with lord Dutta.

The sculpture of yaksa (?) with bow and arrow outside one of the caves is worth dekko.

The second cave has Shivling and lot people come here for blessings.

The 4th or probably 5th caves is of 2 floors. The ground floor is slightly below ground level from where the mid-level floor can be accessed.

To climb to the Upper floor, one has to climb from a narrow staircase which is all broken down.

The upper hall has various Vishnu, Shiv-Parvati idols.

On the upper side of the hill you will find Renuka devi Temple.

Later proceeded to our next destination- Udgir Fort.

Ausa Fort

2011-08-28T17:00:00.000-07:00

Type: Land Fort
Base Village: Ausa
Where:311Kms from Pune, 63Kms from Tuljapur
Route: Tuljapur-Ausa
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: 1 hour
How to visit: Just before you take a turn to enter Ausa off Tuljapur-Latur highway, there’s a left turn (near college) which will take directly to the fort.
Meter reading from Pune: 420 Kms

After a stay in Tuljapur we preceded to Ausa early morning. This fort is also under the control of the ASI and lot of restoration work is done.

The fort is spread over 5 hectares with a 20 feet trench around the fort which now has overgrown shurbs.

There are 2 doors to enter and are in good condition.

There are several cannons neatly lined up in the entrance.

There are 4-5 peacocks which roam merrily in tranquil surroundings.

DiwaneAam walls can be easily identified.

There are few cannon balls still in good condition.

There is a huge well in between the fort and has a lot of water and water channels underneath.

You can walk over the fortification wall completely to watch the expanse of the fort.

There are two huge canyons on the fort out of which one is about 8 feet and has Nizam Shahs name on it.

On one of the west side buruj there’s a nameplate with year mentioned as 1529 when the damaged fortifications was reconstructed.

The villagers continue to do their daily chores peacefully around.

We preceded tour next destination- Kharosa caves.

Dharashiv Caves

2011-08-27T23:00:00.000-07:00

Type: Caves
Base Village: Dharashiv
Where:270 KMs from Pune, 25Kms from Tuljapur
Route: Off Osmanbad
Time visited: somewhere in 2008, August 2011
Time to see around: 1 hour
How to visit: The Dharashiv caves are situated 6-7 km away from Osmanabad city in Balaghat Mountains. A lonely tar road in dry arid landscape goes right till caves. The place is all isolated and late evenings should be avoided.

There are total 7 caves, carved probably in 9^th or 10th century. The main area has 4 caves and Shiva temple .

A concrete staircase leads you directly to this. 2 of them have idols Jain thirthankars while the rest of them seem to be empty.

The 4th cave has beautiful statue of Parshwanath Bhagwan with a huge snake and carving on the top.

There are 3 caves on the left and a muddy trail leads to this.

One cave is slightly downwards and you have wade through grass to reach there. Unfortuantely I missed the last cave here which had some carving of krishna.

The main caves are all now painted white, which gives all our budding artist a plain canvas to scribble names and draw dirty pictures! Last time I visted there was a security guard posted, he was nowhere to be seem. Hopefully this is treasured for next generation too…

Paranda Fort

2011-08-27T22:30:00.000-07:00

Type: Land Fort
Base Village: Paranda
Where:210 KMs from Pune
Route: Pune-Tembhurni-Kurduwadi-Parnda
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: 1 hour
How to visit: Take a left turn from Tembhurni off Pune-Solapur highway towards Kurduwadi. From Kurduwadi take ‘Kurduwadi-Latur’ toll road. I took the Parnada turn from where Paranda was around 25 Kms. But the road was in horrible condition. Better enquire about this before you take a turn. The alternative is to precede towards Barshi and then ‘Barshi- Paranda’ road which in better condition.
Meter reading from Pune: 268

You have to traverse through a vegetable market to reach the entrance. The guard notes down your details and then allows you to visit the magnificent fort.

This 800 year old fort with 26 bastions is said to be built by Bahamani II is indeed a fine specimen of military Architecture and engineering. As per history available on internet after the disintegration of the Bahamani kingdom it became a part of the kingdom of Ahmednagar. After the capture of Ahmednagar by the Moghals in 1600, it became the capital of Ahmednagar for a short time. About 1628 or so, it was captured by Sahaji and remained with him for two to three years and was captured by the Bijapuris in 1630. In 1657 it was again captured by the Moghuls.

The entrance gates are in pretty good condition. The beautiful carvings on the buruj and windows are worth dekko

The fort is surrounded by trench from all the sides with all overgrown bushes and saturated water.

The fort has not faced any battle in its history and used as storage depot for weapons and large number of cannon balls are still lying there.

There is a well maintained beautiful mosque once you enter the main area.

There is a well built well on far right side.

There are two huge cannons on two watch towers/buruj.

It is said that the main cannon is 20 feet long.

You have to take traverse from left to reach the Shiva temple.

Shiva temple.

We proceeded to our next destination Tuljapur.

Madha Fort

2011-08-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

Marathwada Circuit- 1200 Kms, 7 forts, 2 Caves
Day 1: Pune-Madha-Paranda-Tuljapur (360 Kms)
Day 2: Dharshiv Caves
Day 3: Tuljapur-Ausa-Kharosa-Udgir-Nanded (280 Kms)
Day 4: Nanded-Kandhar-Dharur-Kunthaligiri (290 Kms)
Day 5: Kunthaligiri-Kharda-Bhadurgad AKA Dharmaveergad-Pune (265 Kms)

Type: Land Fort
Base Village: Madha
Where:201 KMs from Pune
Route: Pune-Tembhurni-Kurduwadi-Madha
Time visited: August 2011
Time to see around: ?
How to visit: Take a left turn from Tembhurni off Pune-Solapur highway towards Kurduwadi. From Kurduwadi take a diversion off ‘Kurduwadi-Latur’ toll road after toll naka. The road goes straight to Madha which is about 15 Kms from Kuruduwadi.
My Meter reading from Pune: 215

We reached the fort early at 9.30 AM. The road was in excellent condition all the way to Madha. I was excited to see fortification in pretty well condition. After I parked the car and asked the directions to local for the main entrance (which is complete traverse as you enter the village) he told us there’s nothing inside not to visiting the fort!

I insisted and I repented my decision few minutes later. The area around entrance was extremely filthy and such was strong stench that we had to return back to car unable to traverse through the muck to the entrance! It was an unfortunate to see such a pathetic condition of entrance to the fort.

After the unpleasant venture I continued the journey with faint hopes to our next destination- Paranda.

Kukdeshwar Temple

2011-06-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

Type: 12th century Shiva temple
Base Village: Pur
Distance: 100 KMs from Pune
Route: Pune-Nashik highway
Time visited: June 2011
Best time to Visit: In Rains
How to visit: Naryangaon is around 85 Kms from Pune and Junnar is 15 kms ahead. From Junnar you have to take straight road for Aaptale, crossing Shivaji statue and leaving behind the vast Shivneri fort on the left. Aaptale should be around 20 kms from Junnar. Leave the turn for Chavand fort on the right and continue 3-4 kms further for village Pur. Ideally should be clubbed with Chavand fort.

The state department of archaeology is completing the extensive restoration and reconstruction of the Kukdeshwar temple in Pur village, about 30 km west of Junnar.

This 12th century Shiva temple built in `hemadpanti' style of architecture has beautiful carvings on the outer wall. The temple has river Kukdi flowing on its northern side.

Bara Mota chi Vihir

2011-06-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

Type: Historic well
Area: Satara
Base Village: Limb, 20 Kms from Satara
Time visited: June 2011

Way to reach from Pune: Travel to Satara. Few kms before satara after Satara College on Engineering and Management on the right, take left to Nagewadi. Proceed to Limb village. The road is muddy few kms after Limb.

After visiting Nandgiri fort we proceeded to Limb village off Nagewadi.

Built in 1646 by Sou Virubhai Bhosanle this historic well was said to provide water a huge amrai (Mango plantation) with its 12 moats. From the top all you see is few tiny walls and water channels.

But the as you approach the staircase you are struck by the grand entrance arch below the ground level. This arch leads to a lower plinth for fetching water. There are 2 beautiful carved flowers on either side of arch and gallery above.

The gallery is open both sides one inside the well and towards main entrance is actually a small palace complete with a place for throne.

A chor darwaja leads to this gallery.

The well is 110 feet deep, Octagonal in shape and around 50 feet in diameter. The holes a clear indication fwhere moats were sued for pulling water.

After a hearty Thalpit @ Virangula again our usual fastfood joint we proceeded back to pune. We reached back by around 4.30 pm.

Kalyandgad AKA Nandgiri Fort

2011-06-12T20:30:00.001-07:00

Type: Hill forts
Area: Satara
Grade: Easy
Base Village: Nandgiri (Dhumalvadi), 120 Kms from Pune
Time to climb: 1-1.15 Hours
Best time to visit: Monsoon
Time visited: June 2011
Way to reach from Pune: Travel to Satara and take left to Satara Road (Padali) and reach dhumalvadi.

History as per on web: Kalyangad AKA Nandgiri fort was built by king Bhoj-II of Shilahar dynasty between 1178 to 1209. The Shilahar Dynasty was follower of Jainism. This dynasty ruled all over the south Maharashtra and North Karanatka between 11th to 13th Centuries. After decline of Shilahar Dynasty, the Nandgiri fort was captured by Adilshah of Bijapur. The fort was conquered back by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1673 A.D. As this fort was very difficult to climb, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's treasury was kept on this fort. After Shivaji, the administration of Kalyangad went into the hands of Pratinidhis and later fort was taken over by Peshwa. In 1818 the fort came under British control.

Monsoon had arrived early and had been there for a week so we decided to sart the trekking season. Started early at 6.30 AM and after having Vadpav at Ramprasad @ shirval our usal stop over we proceeded to Bhuinj. Now we wanted to visit a historic temple in Kikali and we exitsed NH4 from Bhuinj for Nikamwadi. On the way we stopped for directions and old man offered us to sho till Nandgiri. he mentioned that Kikali temple was being reconstructed.

The fort looks easy from the bottom but as you start climbing you get feel of steep slopes. All over the way Arrows have been marked. On the way is a cave pond with carved pillars supporting the roof. A neat staircase leads to the main gate facing north.

The path, made up of steps, leads us to the door facing east.

On entering the fort by this path we come across the temple of Lord Hanuman.

There is a ruined temple of Shree Ganesh and a big lake ahead on the left. On the right side you would see few windmills rotating with swish of wind. On A few steps ahead are the remnants of palaces. After going straight from this way for 10 minutes we reach to eastern part of the fort. There a huge Banyan tree which is also seen from the base of fort/far away.

Few minutes after this point you can see beautiful lush green sourrouindings and few forts in this region- Jaranda, Ajinkyatara, Chandan, Vandan, Morya and Vairatgad if the skies are clear.

We could locate Jaranda easily. I immediately made up a point to visit Jaranda later this year.

It takes approximately half an hour to watch the top of the fort.

Just after the first gate on the left is a steep footpath descends into a hollow of about forty-fifty feet deep. This is an entrance to a huge pitch dark cavern.

You will get few minutes to adjust your eyesight as nothing can be seen except a a faint flicker of diya far far away.

There are railings inside the cave which is usually filled with water. Sometimes it is said that the water is knee deep or could be upto even waist deep in monsoosns and you have to walk stooping.

The cave is said to be around 30m deep. At the end of the cave you see status of Lord Dutta and on right hand side is very ancient statue of Lord Parshavnath in a sitting posture. Since it was just beginning of monsoon there was absolutely no water in the cave near the railings but on the right side there seemed to deep water..

It takes approximately half an hour to watch the top of the fort and maybe half an hour for the cave. We came down in 20-25 minutes and it started raining heavily. We proceeded to our next destination Bara Mota chi Vihir.

Audumbar

2011-05-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

Day 1: Pune > Siddhagiri > Stavnidhi > Kothali > Khidrapur > Kuntugiri
Day 2: Kuntugiri > Ramlingh Tirth > Ichalkaranji > Kumbhoj
Day 3: Kumbhoj > Audumbar > Pune
Clocked 700+ KMs

How to reach: On NH4 from Pune side before Kolhapur take exit to Wadgaon. Proceed to Astha and look for Audumbar diversion.
Time of visit: May 2011

We started early AM. The road was running through lush green farms once we left wadgaon. On the way a huge peacock crossed the street. Unfortunately it happened so quickly that I didn’t have time to stop and pull my camera...

Adumbar is small village in the interiors. A sacred temple of Lord Dattatraya is located on the banks of the Krishna River. This place is overgrown with audumbar trees and hence the name.

Just on the opposite banks lies a Bhuvanesvari temple. The boatman takes you across the river in 5 minutes charging you just 5 rs.

We returned back to Pune in the evening with wonderful memories.

Kumbhoj Bahubali

2011-05-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

Day 1: Pune > Siddhagiri > Stavnidhi > Kothali > Khidrapur > Kuntugiri
Day 2: Kuntugiri > Ramlingh Tirth > Ichalkarnji > Kumbhoj
Day 3: Kumbhoj > Audumbar > Pune
Clocked 700+ KMs

How to reach: It’s on Kolhapur to Sangli highway. Take a left turn from Hatkalagne ST Stand and its about 6/7 kms.
Time of visit: May 2011, Dec 2005

After a huge round of shopping in Ichalkarnji we reached Kumbhoj in later afternoon. Had a late lunch in new bhojnalaya.

It is said that the name Kumbhoj seems to be connected with well-known ancient term Kamboja of Sanskrit/Pali literature. The main temple has a grand idol of Bhagwan Bahubali. It is situated on about 50 steps up and placed on a 28 feet high promontory.

The temple complex is huge one with school, residential hostel and dharmshala inside. There is a also modern Bhojnalaya built recently. There is huge parking facility.

Apart from these several models of temples of pilgrimage neatly built are truly worth seeing.

Just behind this on the hill about 400 steps up is another temple complex which houses various idols. Theres also a Shwetambar mandir in this complex.

Behind the complex is a historic Bhuabali idol. This artistic 6 feet high Satishaya idol of Bhagwan Bahubali was founded in Khak Samvat 1079. The surroundings near this idol are extremly pleasant if you are here in the evenings. With cool breeze its very beautiful to sit here for few hours...

Just outside the main complex is Shwetambar Jahaj Mandir. This beautifully architected temple in a Ship surrounded by well maintained lush Garden with a nice walkway with flowers all around. In the evening ata round 7 PM it looks beautiful when lightings and fountains are turned on.

Since it was getting late we decided to stay back in Kumbhoj and proceeded to Audumbar next day.

Ichalkaranji

2011-05-09T10:15:00.000-07:00

Day 1: Pune > Siddhagiri > Stavnidhi > Kothali > Khidrapur > Kuntugiri
Day 2: Kuntugiri > Ramlingh Tirth > Ichalkarnji > Kumbhoj
Day 3: Kumbhoj > Audumbar > Pune
Clocked 700+ KMs

How to reach: Its on Kolhapur to Sangli highway. Take a Right turn from Hatkalagne and its about 4-5 kms.
Time of visit: May 2011
What to do: Checkout- D.K.T.E. Society's Textile & Engineering Institute- Rajwada and SHOPPING

Ichalkaranji is situated some 30 kms from Kolhapur on the banks of river Panchaganga. It was ruled by the Ghorpade dynasty for the last two centuries. The development of decentralized textile industry as well as the co-operative movement in this town has a long and interesting history.

The palace belonging to Shri Narayanrao Babasaheb Ghorpade which is now converted to an engineering institute named Dattajirao Kadam Textile and Engineering Institute Ichalkaranji (DKTEI) is worth watching.

The city is well known for its textile industry. We did some shopping. Lot variety especailly in unstiched clothes was available. Somehow it seemed the temperature was low compared to Sangli side. We completed our shopping and and proceeded to Kumbhoj.

Ramlingh Tirth

2011-05-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

Day 1: Pune > Siddhagiri > Stavnidhi > Kothali > Khidrapur > Kuntugiri
Day 2: Kuntugiri > Ramlingh Tirth > Ichalkarnji > Kumbhoj
Day 3: Kumbhoj > Audumbar > Pune
Clocked 700+ KMs

Where: Near Ichalkaranji, off Hatkalgne (Around 30 KMs from Kolhapur)
How to reach: There’s diversion on on Kolhapur to Sangli highway. Follow the road signs. It is few kms ahead of Kuntugiri somewhat at the hill top.
Time of visit: May 2011

This is a very old temple in the foothills of Alate. It is said that Lord Shri Ram had been to this place in his 14 years if exile. The water pours continuously on the shivlingh which is situated in the Cave.

There is small pond in front of the temple. The architecture of the this temple resembles to that of Ratta and Chalukyan Period and there is a Jod Nandi [Twin Cow] idol at the entrance of the cave.

There some historic carvings of idols and some inscriptions too.

After visiting Ramlingh Tirth we proceeded to Ichalkarnji.

Shri Kshetra Kuntugiri

2011-05-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

Day 1: Pune > Siddhagiri > Stavnidhi > Kothali > Khidrapur > Kuntugiri
Day 2: Kuntugiri > Ramlingh Tirth > Ichalkarnji > Kumbhoj
Day 3: Kumbhoj > Audumbar > Pune
Clocked 700+ KMs

Where: Near Ichalkaranji, off Hatkalgne (Around 30 KMs from Kolhapur)
How to reach: It’s on Kolhapur to Sangli highway.
Time of visit: May 2011, 2006

Reached in the picturesque and tranquil surroundings by late evening. Luckily the bhojnayala was still thankfully open and he served tasty Dal-Bhati. Amazing in early May when the atmosphere was roaring above 35C the place was very cool with continous strong winds.

The dharmashala is a L shaped building with 2 floors and cleans rooms. In night we had to close windows but scary noise of wind kept us awake for some time but the glided into peaceful dreams. Woke early morning to catch sunrise with peacocks melodious voices in background adding to the charm. Through window we could locate few peacocks on the hill behind.

This place is situated at foot hills of lush green mountains. The temple complex is beautiful with a central parking and management office in front and a beautiful garden beside it. On the left behind the management office is a huge dharmashala and 2 bhojnalaya while the main temple is on extreme right behind the garden.

The marble temple complex is grand one and white glowing temple stands out in green tranquil surroundings.

The Garden is complete with Fruit and Flower section on one side- I could locate Mango (Amrai), Guavava, Aavla, Papayya, Chikko, Pomegranate among many trees. The main garden has play area for children dotted with palm trees. All over place there are flowering plants like sadafuli, mogra, roses etc.

Behind the main temple complex lies the beautiful status of Gometeshwara.

After Darshan we had yummy poha and proceeded to Ramlingh Tirth and our next destination Ichalkarnji

Temples of Khidrapur: Adinath Jain Digambar Temple

2011-05-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Day 1: Pune > Siddhagiri > Stavnidhi > Kothali > Khidrapur > Kuntugiri
Day 2: Kuntugiri > Ramlingh Tirth > Ichalkarnji > Kumbhoj
Day 3: Kumbhoj > Audumbar > Pune
Clocked 700+ KMs

Where: Khidrapur (Around 60 KMs from Kolhapur)
How to reach: Best way is to travel to Kurdunwad and the proceed to Khidrapur.
Time of visit: May 2011

Few meters away from Kopeshwar, in the heart of the village is a Jain temple, which is much smaller in size. The outer wall of the shrine being in the star-shaped Hemadpanti plan.

The building is of black stone. The carvings on outer wall are less in number but the beautiful women in various poses are strikingly similar to kopeshwar.

Most of statues have very calm, peaceful glowing look.

It is said that Adinath Bhagwan idol looks of different colour in Morning, afternoon & evening.

The pillars of the hall are richly carved.

There are some very fine carvings on left hand wall at the entrance.

After darshan we proceeded to Kuntugiri via Kurdunwad-Narsobachiwadi and then we hit Sangli highway

Temples of Khidrapur: Kopeshwar

2011-05-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

Day 1: Pune > Siddhagiri > Stavnidhi > Kothali > Khidrapur > Kuntugiri
Day 2: Kuntugiri > Ramlingh Tirth > Ichalkarnji > Kumbhoj
Day 3: Kumbhoj > Audumbar > Pune
Clocked 700+ KMs

Where: Khidrapur (Around 60 KMs from Kolhapur) How to reach: Best way is to travel to Kurdunwad and the proceed to Khidrapur.
Time of visit: May 2011

Since I was approaching from Kothali I had to take Sadalga-dattawad-takli-Kidhrapur road. Most of it was interior road road and was not in a good condition. Best wasy to approach is from Kolhapur-Sangli highway and then proceed via Kurdunwad. You can do Narsobachi wadi on the way too.

This is ancient temple believed to be built in 11th century during satvanah period. Often described as the Khajuraho of Maharashtra, the Khidrapur temple complex is a distinct piece of art and architecture.

The mythological story behind the name ‘Kopeshwar’ is – Devi Sati (daughter of King Daksha) was married to lord Shiva. Daksha didn’t like in son-in-law at all. He was about to perform some yagna (hindu ritual performed along with holy fire) and he didn’t invite Sati & Shiva. Devi Sati felt sad and went to meet her father asking the reason behind not inviting her husband. In turn, King Daksha insulted Shiva and it was unbearable for Sati to tolerate her husband’s insult. She jumped in the yajna. Hearing this news, Shiva was furious and he punished Daksha by cutting his head. Later on, due to request of other deities, Shiva took back the curse and granted him life with goat’s head. It is believed that angry Shiva was brought to this place (temple) to cool his anger. Hence the temple got its name i.e. ‘Kop’ means anger and ‘Eshwar’ means lord Shiva.

The temple is built as if resting on aga japeeth, a platform on the backs of many carved elephants.

The most Fascinating is Swargmandap complete with 48 Carved pillars.

The astounding carvings on the celiengs are worth dekko.

The main Mandap, has a huge circular open to sky portion called Akashdarshan supported by 12 superbly carved pillars. Beneath is is a beautiful round black stone slab of same size called the ‘rangshila’. It is an amazing experience to sit on the centre of the stone round open ‘akaash gavaksh’ on the ceiling and look towards the dark inner sanctum of the grabha griha

Temple stand firm with all its glory of stone carvings of 92 elephants and 108 pillars and hundreds of sculptures depicting scenes about from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, Shiva, the twelve astrological signs and flowers, trees, birds, human figures.

It is said that all ‘adhyaaya‘ (parts) of ‘Shivlilamrut‘ are carved on the walls of the temple. Nandi is missing in this temple. Next comes Sabhamandap, Antaral-kaksha and Garbhagriha. The Garbhagriha is more cold and dark. The shiva linga, burning lamps make the atmosphere peaceful and divine.

The outer walls of the shrine are broken at oblique angles as in the Nilanga Hemadpanti temple. By the south door of the temple is a Devgiri Yadav inscription of Sinhadev in Devnagari dated sak 1135 (A.D. 1213) granting the village of Khandalesvar in Miraj for, the worship of Kopeshvar.

The whole of temple has beautiful carvings specifically of women in various poses that depict various joyful emotions.

There is huge yaksh-dwarpal which is now broken.

Flower Pattern Details on 6 windows are worth watching.

Unfortunately the destruction believed to be done by Aurangzeb is widely seen but fortunately the mystic intricate carvings and the beauty still prevails.

We were fortunate to locate a person who guided us throughout this marvellous breath-taking temple. We then proceed to another historic Jain Digamber temple built on similar lines.

Kothali (Shantigiri)

2011-05-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

Day 1: Pune > Siddhagiri > Stavnidhi > Kothali > Khidrapur > Kuntugiri
Day 2: Kuntugiri > Ramligh Tirth > Ichalkarnji > Kumbhoj
Day 3: Kumbhoj > Audumbar > Pune
Clocked 700+ KMs

Shantinath Digmbar Jain Temple
Where: 8 Kms Off Nipani, Taluka. Chikodi (Around 50/55 kms from Kolhapur)
How to reach: 5-6 Kms before Stavndi take a right into Nipani Village. Pass Pattankuddi and Kuthali village and Proceed to Kothali. The Roads were in bad shape when I visited. Also the road sign are all in local language.
Time of visit: May 2011, 2006
Lodging-Boarding facilities are available

(On the way fro Nipani- View of Pattankudi village)

From Sidhagiri Museum we proceed to Tavndi. After Darshan we proceed to Kothali. It is the birth place of one of the revered Jain saints called Acharya Deshbhushan Maharaj.

This is a huge temple complex on the top of hill built in late seventies.

There is a 21 feet high statue of Bhagvan Shantinath in standing posture with idols of 19 feet high Bhagvan Chnadraprabhu and Bhagvan Mahavir on either side.

Samvasaran Mandir: It is housed in a 20 feet hall with colored glasswork depicting the creation of Samvasaran.

Nandishwar Mandir: It is housed in a 30 by 30 feet hall having 5 artificial hillocks having 52 idols of brass in Padamasan postures.

Lotus temple: it is an octangular hall where the idols of 24 Tirthankars are installed. The Mulnayak of this temple is Bhagwan Padamparbhu in the center in standing posture. The other 23 tirthankars are in padamasan postures. (4) 17 feet High marble idol of Bhagwan Parsvanath with shade of 7 hoods on a lotus seat under the open sky.

After Darshan we had a peaceful meal under a chikoo tree we preceded to our next destination Khidrapur.

Siddhagiri Gramjivan and Rashi Udyan

2011-05-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

How to reach: Pune To Siddhagiri Museum- Pass Kolhapur and continue on NH4. After Gokul Shirgaon MIDC leave NH4 and Take right from overbridge. Proceed to Shree Kshtra Sidhdhagiri Math - 4/5kms.
Distance from Pune: 239 km – About 4/4.5 hours
Ticket: 40 Rs
Website: http://www.siddhagirimuseum.org/
Time of visit: May 2011

2 Kms before the entrance there a nice statue- only place where you click photo.

It has huge car parking facility. The entrance to museum is grand with miniature town model on the right.

Once you buy a 40Rs ticket you enter an underground tunnel where model of different ancinet sages are kept with complete information. Scenes of Ekalavya, Ayryabhatta, Prepartion of Ayurvedic medicines, Ancient Surgery among others really standout. There should be at least 30 such different topics covered.

The second block is traditional outdoor village display- outside. You get to see life size model of various stages of farming, shepherds with sheeps and cows grazing complete with a dog roaming around and crow sitting on buffalos head singing in cranky voice. Intricate details on buffalos like their shining eyes, veins in the body or dirty knees are worth observing. In one scence where boys seeming to enjoying playing marbles it was amazing to see the shirt of a boy almost in swaying motion.

The last block is Village Indoors. This showcases different aspects of Gramjivan (village life). There were 12 ALUTEDARS (12 main profession-based castes i.e. Professions performed from generation to generations by families) and 18 BALUTEDARS, who provided equipments to all villagers to fulfill their day-to-day necessities.

All of these are depicted like - Goldsmith, Coppersmith, Grocer, Weaver, Fisherman, Landlord, Joshi etc in their typical home environment. It has a boxing ring- Oil mill (Tel Ghana), akhada, a traditional vada bullock cart and all. The museum is spread over 7 acres and has almost 80 scenes which showcase more than 300 statues.

While some say the statues are made of wax while others say they are of cement. Whatever they are so realistic with fine carving, colourful and with detail features that cannot be simply expressed. Unfortunately photography is not allowed...But it’s worth visit.

There is also good facility for refreshments. We enjoyed some ice-creams.

Rashi Udyan
The Rashi Udyan is in front of the museum. This has sculptures of all the Sun signs and short description about each of them. At entrance of park, there is sculpture of bullock cart and a photographer clicking it. Again photography is prohibited.

We porceeded to our next Destination: Stavnidi and Kothali

Dhareshwar

2011-03-20T03:54:00.000-07:00

We had heard that there are lot of birds out near the temple. There was nothing much planned and we thought this could be best day to catch few birds.

The temple is located in Dhyari. From Abhiruchi off singhagad road you need to take left and leave behind the DSK vishwa turn and carry on.

The narrow road turns towards left and you would see the temple on the right. The entrance is grand built in stone.

The surroundings were pleasant and we could see sunrise behind the trees.

Theres a huge banyan tree on one side of the temple.

All over buildings have mushroomed around but temple pleasant green surroundings attracted lot of small birds. We could capture a good number of them in our cameras .

Bhuleshwar AKA Daulatmangal Fort

2011-02-20T20:45:00.000-08:00

Type: Hill fortsGrade: Easy (You can drive till top)
Base Village: Off Urali Kanchan, beforeYevat
Distance: 45 KMs from Pune
Route: Pune-Solapur Road
Time visited: Feb 2011
Time to see around: 1 hour max
How to visit: From swargate hit Pune-Solapur highway. After the toll road ends at Urali-Kanchan, (2 Kms before Yevat) take right turn along eastern bank of canal. The fort should be around 8 Km. There is small ghat but the road is good condition. This raod further goes down to Saswad. There is right side diversion just as the Ghat ends and a bumpy road with pretty steep with sharp turn’s lead you right till the temple on the top of the fort.

Every time I visit Solapur I promise myself that I need to take out time and visit Bhuleshwar temple on the Daulatmangal fort. This Sunday finally I headed for this amazing place. Started at 6.45/7 we hit the cool breezy road. The Sun was out smiling as the sleepy traffic moved calmly at Magarpatta and Hadapsar.

After the toll ended we stopped at our favourite stop- Kanchan for steamy breakfast. Mouth-watering Hot Idlis and Dosa on fresh green leaf with yummy sambar recharged our energy that we would need for next few hours. We strolled for few minutes in the Nishigand and Marigold farms on the opposite side.

I could easily locate Bhuleshwar behind the hotel. After turning on right the road from Solapur highway it become lonely amid the dry arid landscape. A few leafy green of mostly Banana and Papai farms are only ones that add beauty to the parched yellows and muddy browns. Well just at the ghat starts, the large number of misty Jacoranda tress adds the delightful voilets. Throughout this road, the temple is always visible in front of you.

The striking Buruj towers at both ends draw you attention. There are two connected towers probably now a home to a few people is at the centre. Not sure if these were built recently...

There is good stairway built from half of the fort to the temple but since the road is pretty steep with barely one vehicle could pass safely I could locate a place to park my car. We finally reached the top from the left side. I could locate 2 Buruj on the way. The fort is supposed to be built around the temple in 16th century by Murar Jagdev after he had looted Pune.

Bhuleswar Temple is very old and said to be built in 12th century by Choula Rulers. The temple is centrally located on a huge platform. The closer look of the roof towers highlights the magnificient artistic detailed designs.

The Hemadpanthi temple is amazing built using Black besalt rock. Somehow this temple gave me memories of Halebidu-Bellur temples. The beautiful carving starts right from the door of the temple. A right climb traverse in the dark lead you to a huge opening to the main temple. A beautifully carved Nandi draws you attention. Every inch on the main temple wall and every pillar has extremely fascinating and wonderful intricate carvings with some having mythological references.

The temple bears many signs of invasion and destruction as you can see typical destruction of all the artistic work- where hands and heads are chopped off. It said that Aurangzeb had invaded this fort before invasion of Jejuri.

With a promise to myself that I would visit back this mystic place once again in rains when the scorched yellows would turn into radiant greens, we proceeded to Ramdara.

Ramdara

2011-02-20T00:17:00.000-08:00

Base Village: Loni KalbhorDistance: 22 KMs from Pune
Route: Pune-Solapur Road
Time visited: Feb 2011
Time to see around: 0.5 hours max (You can relax and spend 2-3 hours easily)
How to visit: From Swargate hit Pune-Solapur highway. After the toll road starts at Loni, pass the HPCL main gate, on the left you would see MIT Vishwa Gurukul. You will have to cross a Bridge. As the Bridge ends take a right turn into the village. On left hand side as the divider ends is the Dutt Mandir. Take a right turn here and the bumpy road goes all out to Ramdara.

After visiting Bhuleshwar we headed back for Pune. The second agenda was visit to Ramdara. Ramdara is great quick getaway from hustle and bustle of the city.

The road is lonely 4-5 kms drive through tiny hamlets. The entire landscape again was rusty yellows. The road is all ups and down. After climbing a small mountain finally the Green bushy spot became clearly visible. 2-3 foreigners sped by on motor bikes...

At the entrance are dense shady huge trees. You can park car nicely there. A five minutes’ walk will reveal a beautiful temple surrounded by small lake and coconut trees. The green coloured water is full of algae but the calmly floating ducks and gentle breeze adds charm to peaceful tranquil.

The temple has beautiful idols of Lord Rama, Sita and Laxman. The huge nandi in the temple is beautifully crafted.

Could locate few ducks quacking merrily before they proceeded for swim in the hot weather. You can relax in the shady trees and munch on Bhel or Vadpav, the only food item that is probably sold here apart from Guavas. Best to carry your own food and water bottle.

On the way we bought a bagful of fresh onions from the farmers who were digging them up. Well that made my entire return journey slightly teary in spite of turning on AC...

While returning we caught glipses of beautiful enchanting colored flowers in the roadside nurseries. We were back home for a late lunch at 2/2.30 PM with wonderful memories to cherish.

Sunrise at Alandi

2011-02-06T18:00:00.000-08:00

Type: Walk
Grade: Easy (in case you walk everyday for atleast 2-3 kms)
Distance: 17 KMs from Pune
Cost: 30 Rs!

Sant Dnyaneshwar was a great saint, poet, philosopher and spiritual leader and founder of warkari movement in the 13th century. Alandi is the place famous for Sant Dnyaneshwar's Samadhi. Alandi is situated on the banks of river Indrayani. The Samadhi temple built in 1570 is worth to see. Surrounded by thick greenery with beautiful bacdrop of ghat adds to the solemnity and serenity of the place. Every year Dnyaneshwar's palkhi starts from Alandi to Pandharpur in month of July and thousands of people, young and old, accompany on foot.

Every month first on second sunday a group of people walks from Pune to Alandi. We decided to join this walk of 17 kms. Getting up at 3 AM in morning seemed bit difficult initially but I was very excited. We started at 3.30 AM and reached the starting point- Pratik Nagar Bust Stop before Vishrantwadi. Once you turn left from Bund Garden Bridge and pass Deccan College you have to take right. This also goes to airport if you turn right after pratik nagar.
Well there were around 10 people already gathered. The group is led by one Mr Kanade and 2 others. Mr Kanade informed us he was doing this activity for 17 years! Once a year in Jan they also visit Dehu temple from ALandi - so they walk around 32 Kms... Most of the member had been doing this for 3+ years and few had been doing 9-10 years! Once in a year they also walk all the way from Lonavala to Shivaji nagar!

We started at 4 AM sharp. The traffic was low with few big trucks honking and passing. the Road till vishrantwadi is almost good- 2 lanes on each side with a recently planted trees and the service roads on the side. There are few bad patches but I could the road construction going on. I guess few kms after Dighi it becomes a single road. The calm morning and gentle but mild cold breeze made the walk easier. I could still see 'Saptarshi' above and the twinkling 'Dhruv' star on the right. I was surprised I wasnt even feeling thirsty. I could locate 'Gokhale Mala' on the way, the only known place to me. Could see some new construction activity and few luxurious flat schemes coming up on the road.

Approx 6 Kms before Alandi we stopped for 10 minute darshan at Sai Temple. It’s a probably newly built huge temple complex and the Kakad Aarti was just about to end. It was beautiful temple indeed.

We proceeded to our destination. At 6.30 AM sharp we were on the Ghat. The Ghat was still trying to wake up and the atmosphere was dizzy with the blanketed fog. The tranquil reflections in the silent water were aspiring. The whole place seemed to be blessed with awesome natural beauty. Along the sides you could see the boiling water pots and the early visitors waiting for warm bathing water. Elsewhere some were un-necessarily hurrying up and seemed to be heading for the pooja. The small shopkeepers were equally busy doing there setups probably praying for good business for today. The tea vendors amidst water vapour of boiling tea could be seen giving orders to the cooks.The main temple gateway was all prepared to welcome today’s visitors and pilgrims in dazzling lights.

A hopeful vasudev was singing some bhajans at the door.

A big peepal treecalled ‘Suvarna Peepal’ stood on the right at the entrance.

The temple complex was beautiful from inside. Seeing the walkthrough barricades I could imagine the crowd during the palkhi. There was a huge banyan tree called ‘Ajeevan Vruksha’

We took darshan and then assembled outside. The most touching experience was that every member distributed 'prasad' to other members and touched their feet. After a huge glass of milk we headed for the bus stand. I guess a bus runs every 15 minutes from Pune to Alandi and I could see the first bus around 5 AM. We got a bus immediately. As we proceeded I could finally see sun struggling to spread in light amidst the dense fog.

We were back by 8 at Pratik nagar. After waving off good bye to other members we hit the road and at 8.30 I was enjoying the sunday special 'pattis' along with 'Times of India'.

What a day to start with...

Kulaba Fort

2010-11-07T21:27:00.000-08:00

Type: Sea forts
Grade: Easy
Base City: Alibaug
Distance: 155 KMs from Pune
Route: Pune-Khopoli-Pen-Alibaug
Time visited: Nov 2010
Time to see around: 1 hour max
How to visit: Park your vehicle on Alibaug beack. A 10 minutes Boat ride to the fort starts from here. They charge around 100/ per person for to and fro. In low tides you can actually walk or take a buggy ride. The boating is well organized and they issue a ticket on the counter.
Entrance fee: There is Rs 5 charge for the entrance to the fort.

This Diwali we decided to visit Naigaon beach and Kulaba fort of Alibaug. We reached early to Alibaug beach around 9 AM. There was very less crowd around.

Built on a rock island near Alibag town, Colaba, Kolaba or Kulaba fort was probably came under Shivaji command along with whole of south Konkan. This was later established as naval station. It attained importance under the Angres and was the main base of the Maratha navy.

The main entrance of the fort, called Maha Darwaja, faces the Alibaug city.

The Archelogical survey of India has maintained this fort. Once inside the fort there's a well paved road with structure on both side.

There are 17 Bastions and the parapet wall is 7-8 feet wide.

There are two entrance doors. The main entrance door face Alibaug city.

As you start entering the fort on the left is Bhavani temple and house of few people that still reside in the fort.

Further ahead there are huge remains of what probably could have been palaces. The second structure which is a two storied could have been queens/ladies palace. The decorative false windows on the inner wall offer a glimpse of the once beautiful structure.

The well maintained Ganesh temple built by Raghoji Angre in 1759 is work visiting.

The huge beautifully carved Tulshi Vrindavan is something to watch out.

Right in front of the temple is a huge squared water tank.

The southern gate is smallerv called as Daria / Yeshwant Darwaja.

The view from the southern gate look awesome.

On one of the Bastions near main entrance door there are two huge cannons.

From alibaug side there is a small fort-like structure called sarjyakot, which was probably constructed to store artillery and protect attack from alibaug side.

This mesmerizing beautiful structure over 300 years old is truly worth visit.

Karpe Wadi, Nagaon

2010-11-07T00:33:00.000-07:00

Base City: Alibaug
Distance: 160 KMs from Pune, 6 Kms from Alibaug
Route: Pune-Khopoli-Pen-Alibaug-Nagaon
Time visited: Nov 2010
More info: Website

This Diwali nothing was planned till last moment. Finally Thursday we planned and finalized for Alibaug-Nagaon trip. Had been earlier and Nagaon was always on the radar for re-visit due to its proximity, clean and beautiful beach. I loved Kashid more but decided to avoid it as it was peak season and I was sure that we might not get rooms there. We hit the road 6M on 5th November friday. As soon as we reached Banglore highway it started to drizzle. The road was empty and we reached khopoli very quickly within an hour an half. On way we stopped at Vadhakkal Naka had the famous vada pav at Kshuda shanti opposite the IOC petrol pump. The family paper dosa was huge one.

We reached Nagaon by 9.30/10 AM. Follow a mud trail just a mile before the last right turn to common beach and the Karpe wadi resort is located at far end on the beach.

The car park is right at the entrance. As you enter you will start suddenly feeling fresh leaving back all your exhuastive tiring journey.

The whole resort is inside coconut and supari plantation with banana shoot adding to the charm. It was well maintained with pathways built to rooms.

The pricing was per/pax- 1000-1250 depending on the rooms including lunch-dinner-breakfast and tea. Didnt enquire about AC rooms...

A quick check-in was followed by welcome drink- the fresh coconut water. The main dining area is right in front of office. The rooms are pretty decent with more spacious on your left and some AC rooms and standard cottages on the right. Each room has its own hammock and relaxing wooden bench outside. There a small table for lunch an breakfast.

After dropping the luggage we hit the beach. By 1 pm we were hungry and headed for dining area.

The dining area looks cool with aesthetically well-designed furniture made from local wood probably. The food was tasty with variety options in veg. Nonveg was made on order basis. The food was served hot in the dining area and it’s a self-service. Since it was diwali they served Aamras in the lunch. The tandali chi bhakri in the evening was very tasty along with solkadhi.

Found the staff extremely warm and helpful. It was nice to see that they were accepting CC since lot of resorts in Konkan still prefer cash.

A small pathway leads right to amazing vast expanse of the beach. During hide tide the water comes very close but in the afternoon during low tide you have walk few miles to the water. Nagaon beach itself is known for it soft sand, clean and vast beach where you could roam in evening basking in the twilight or walk as the sun starts to rise. The beach here at Karpe’s wadi is almost like private complete with water tourism- speed boats, tow rides, water scooters, ATV rides on beach made available on demand.

We played in sand built a seafort and collected seashells :) After enjoying the warm fun filled evening had heartfelt of dinner we went straight for bed. Next day we had long walk early morning collected some more seashells and played in water. Since we were able to get a booking of one day we proceeded to find another hotel.

If you want to do nothing and love a quiet tranquil getaway this could be great place to relaaax.
We enjoyed another day in Nagaon and then proceeded to Alibaug.

Pali

2010-08-28T23:34:00.001-07:00

To reach pali take a exit for Khopoli on Mumbai-pune expressway. Pali is 35 Kms from Khopoli. The road is in very good condition but isnt that bad. The drive is pleasant though.

Pali’s Ballaleshwar is one of the Ganpati in "Ashtavinayak". There are small lakes in front of the temple. In the innermost part of the temple, there is a three-feet Ganesh idol.

Sarasgad Fort

2010-08-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

Type : Hill forts
Grade: Medium
Base Village: Talai, Umbarwadi (Pali)
Distance: 115 KMs from Pune (35 Kms from Khopoli near Pali)
Time to reach to top : 1.5/2 Hours
Time visited: Aug 2010

Not much of historic information is available about this fort. This fort probably was used to keep a check on the surrounding regions.Shivaji Maharaj brought this fort under Swarajya aand later as under Bhor Sansthan. Sarasgad stretches out in the north-south direction, to the east of Pali. From both ends of the fort one can reach the top.

Well the plan was made for Sudhgad. We started at 6.30 AM from pune and reached Khopoli via expressway. After crossing Khopoli we took Road for Pali. The road is in very good condition but isnt that bad. The drive is pleasant though. Once you pass Jhambulwadi village the majestic Sarasgad with 4 subhuge pinnacles on the left beckons you.

After visiting Pali temple we had Mix wada sambar in nearby hotel.It was almost 10 AM. After enquiring about Sarasgad we decided to abandon sudhgad which was around 12 kms away and try Sarasgad instead. On further enquiry we came to know that the popular path to climb was from behind the Pali temple pond and there were close to 100 steps carved in stone but every step is one and half to two feet high and are very difficult to climb. This was a exhaustive way and more easy way was from Umbarwadi few kms on Khopoli road. We drove back to Umbarwadi and the a very small motorable road leads to a tribal village called Talai from MSEB office.

After parking our car we asked the locals if someone would accompany us. A local boy Nitin and his friend offered to help us. After walking back on the road to umbarwadi few meters hidden in the thick vegetation was the start of the trail. The trail slowly climbed to a flat patch
'pathar'. The high rocky boulders of the fort were clearly standing out. The whole area was covered with beautiful carpet of tiny yellow flowers.

Once you start climbing the last huge steep patch there are small steps but are mostly covered in grass shoots. The steps are not in clear alignment and now and then now and then you might loose the trail in the thick overgrown grass. Nitin our guide, guided us very skillfully through the treacherous slippery rocky patches.

The huge door and sturdy fence walls and buruj are awesome. Once you pass through the door you there is water storage right in front of you. Im not sure but probably this is the Dindi Darwaja. A small trail to right lead you to top probably ballekilla. We didnt explore the leftside which had some caves. It said they had capacity to accommodate large group. The way to the topmost pinnacle is steep patch with rock cut steps. The top is realatively small or rather seemed small in thick overgrown grass but the view was awesome.

There is temple of shiva right behind the pond. The view beneath would give you glimpse of pali village spread in beauty of surrounding lush green mountains. There is also a tomb of Shahapeer near by.

The overall view is picturesque. The white puffy clouds wander lazily over the gorgeous valley, the calm water continues to travel its destined journey from faraway blue mountains and the lush green tress basking in the bright warm sunlight.

From the other side you can see Korigad, Ghangad, Telbaillya walls.

We descended back in an hours time. The boys were so simple and it was anybodys guess that this areas was extremly backward. They demanded 20 Rs for the guiding us. A 100re note brought 100crore smile on thier face. After wishing them goodbye we started our journey back. A hearty yummy lunch at newly opened hotel in jambulwadi gave us all the energy.

It was wonderful trek and something that would be cherished forever.

Kailasgad Fort

2010-07-26T21:54:00.000-07:00

Type: Hill forts
Grade: Medium
Base Village: Vaduste Village, Near Tamhini ghat, 85 Kms from Pune
Time to climb: 1.5 Hours
Best time to visit: When it’s raining cats and dogs!
Time visited: June 2010

Kailasgad is an unknown fort probably with no famous history at all though I read on internet that Shivaji raje had once visited this fort.

It was raining all the day before and Kailashgad seemed to be a best place to explore in rains. We started early from Pune had a breakfast- Pohe and Vadpav in Pirangut. The drive was extremely pleasant, lush greenery everywhere, drizzling rains and the beautiful Mulshi back waters added to the charm. As we started to cross Mulshi it started to get foggy.Before Tamhini ghat you have to take right turn to and drive to Pimpri Village. The drive was awesome once you turn towards Mulshi-Lonavala road. There was so much fog that we could barely see few meters ahead.

On the way there’s a gorgeous view of huge mountain wall with hundreds of waterfall emptying tons of joyous water in the deep valley.

The fog ensures that mystic view creates the romance in the cold air. Government has put railings and created a nice place where one could spend hours watching the clouds lingering on the cliffs and listening to tingling music of gushing water. The spot seems to be familiar with lot bikers who unfortunately create unruly atmosphere with loud music and dance with open drinking. But if you go to this place early morning then its a heaven on earth.

Further few meters away there’s a small dam and the overflowing water created beautiful mini-waterfall. Definitely we had to stop and admire the eerie beauty with a huge mountain behind the water and waterfall adding to charm.

Once we reached Vaduste village leaving behind the turn for lonavala on the left, the awesome view of huge mountains, green rice farms below and rains playing hode and seek enthrill you.

The grand Kailsgad seemed to be right infront of us. A helpful farmer- Mr Pawar arranged two boys to show us the road to the top. 2 kms ahead of Vaduste village there a sharp turn with a water tank barely visible on left. You need to park your car there and then start climbing the adjacent hill.

There’s a hardly trail and it was extremely slippery. Once you reach to the top of that hill the view is awesome. Faraway you can see a small island in the calm waters of mulshi. On onside you would see the lsuh green rice farms and filled with muddy waters.

A clear trail leads from there onwards through thick bushes of man-height of Karvy. A wild pig dashed in font of us at great speed and left us flabbergasted for few minutes.

It started to rain very heavily. It was picturesque sight and we could see swaying white lines of rain from gray clouds on back drop of green mountains. Unfortunately due to rains we could hardly take out cameras.

The trail goes up and down from the reverse side of the fort crossing few streams and extremely slipper rock patches. But its mostly easy walk rather than a climb. On the top we could barely stand due to severe wind and see 2-3 very small lakes where rain water had collected.

We decided not to venture more as were soaking and shivering. The boys told us there was a cave and remains of some construction/plinth kind of thing further ahead on the top.

Once back we went to Pawar’s hut and we had yummy meal. Had a stomach full of Nachnichi Bhakri, Pithla with hot steaming local Indrayani rice all prepared with warmth and care by the ajji.

This was place that I would definitely love to visit again and again.

Chavand Fort

2010-07-11T20:24:00.000-07:00

Type: Hill Fort
Base Village: Chavand/Chavandwadi
Distance: 100 KMs from Pune
Route: Pune-Nashik highway
Time visited: July 2010, June 2011
Best time to Visit: In Rains
How to visit: Naryangaon is around 85 Kms from Pune and Junnar is 15 kms ahead. From Junnar you have to take straight road for Aaptale, crossing Shivaji statue and leaving behind the vast Shivneri fort on the left. Aaptale should be around 20 kms from Junnar. Take right turn for Chavand fort.

Excursions: Kukdeshwar Temple

The few showers this week brought back the all the hopes of perfect weather for trek. Four of us started at 5.45 and had breakfast- Pohe on Nashik highway. The less traffic made our journey easy. We reached Junnar by around 8 AM.

The muddy road had became all slippery due to few rain showers yesterday but the awesome fort was standing tall fearing the gushy winds and sparkling in the delicate morning sunrays. We decided not to take our car to chavandwadi as looked horrible from the bifurcation and parked our car in nearby house. The trail starts behind the school and you can easily see the 2 ladders at the middle from base itself. The half an hour steep climb took us to the base of the ladder. Well the ladders are actually just the side railing and not a ladder that we have climb. The tiny carved rock slanting steps or the cuts in the rock on the steep slopes above were looking challenging. The railings were swaying in the winds. The entire weather was misty and beautiful. A bird far was merrily singing lost in his own charming world. We took deep breath as we prepared to climb. Behind us the whole mountain range had disappeared in the fog and only main upside down bell mountain was partially visible. Far away on the left the kukdi seem to be flowing tranquilly.

Slowly we climbed the rock patch. Thankfully it wasn’t raining here and wasn’t slippery but mere imagining this patch in heavy rains sent down a chill in my spine. Broken step there after lead you to the top. The climb continues to be still steep. Overall you can easily reach the main entrance in less than 1-1.5 hours depending on your speed. The main gate is in good condition.

There nothing much to see on the top - few water cisterns, broken temple and ukhal lying at the start of the trail on the top. There is a chamunda devi temple on the small hill on the top but we couldn’t locate the trail which probably got lost in the grass. We didn’t have lot of time to explore so we decided not to go in the temple.

There was some remains that looked like palace. But it was filled with water. The view from backside is simply fantabulous! The entire Kukdi river and mountain ranges behind it on backdrop of wandering grey-black clouds with white streak looked like a magical water colored painting. After eating quickly some yummy pears we started back. The climb down was easy and not difficult as we had imagined. In less than 45 minutes we were at the base. While coming back we stopped at Purohits before the Khed Ghat after Peth. The place was good and food tasted really nice. A mysore masala dosa and hot coffee killed all the growls from our tummies. We were back by 4 PM with all the wonderful memories for the thrilling experience.

Due to the lack of time we couldnt visit the famous Kukdeshwar Temple but I heard its must visit. It is just few Kms ahead of Chavand fort.

Updates- June 2011: Visited Kukdeshwar Temple.

Portland Japanese Garden

2010-05-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

A picturesque experience filled with abundant tranquility, serenity and colorful blossom. This is something that you shoulhdnt really miss if you are visiting Portland.

The travel by Trimet Max to the downtown is extremely fast, smooth and very easy. With less than $3 you can zoom across the city. The Trimet stops at Oregon Zoo/Washinton Park. A lift will take you up 667 feet up somewhere on the mid of a huge mountain directly from the station. The station is sort of huge tunnel, with various kinds of information painted on walls and the basalt rock displayed in a long plastic pipe.

Once you are outside the lift a sculpture is again dedicated to information about the Huge Tunnels. The Zoo starts at the right hand side. The Trimet Bus would take you to Japanese Garden in less than $2 or you can simply walk down a 3 mile trail through the beautiful woods. We had a limited time and we choose the bus. The bus drops at a particular point from where you can take a free shuttle to the gate or simply climb few minutes through a nice trail in the gigantic trees. The ticket is $9.5 to the Garden.

Japanese garden essentially has 3 elements- Sand, Water and plants. Originally part of zoo the garden has been crafted without disturbing the natural habitat of huge old trees. There are five mini gardens- Flat, Stroll, Tea, Natural, Sand and Stone.

Once you enter the gate just around the corner is Flat Garden. It’s extremely beautiful with variety of charming flowers. Behind a house a group melodiously played Japanese drums.

A paper hat making activity was organized for the kids.

Down below is the abstract- Sand and Stone Garden. This looked more of an art with only rocks and white marble pieces around it. The circular motion around the rocks indicated that the white color was used a water. The lady guide explained the significance how these are usually near the monasteries. The moss was replacements for the plants.

The stroll garden had a beautiful waterfall and the upper pond was made as sort of magnificent lake. The kingfisher was enjoying seen sunbathing.

The end trail lead to the store which offered variety of Japanese items. We visited the international rose garden but the summer was yet to begun and hence the roses weren’t yet bloomed. We caught back the Trimet bus and then max to home.

Even the thoughts bring back the calmness and peace of mind.

Web- http://www.japanesegarden.com/