Tadoba Tiger Reserve

Day 1 - Hyderabad to Tadoba National Park. 

Distance: 480 km via AH43/NH7
Road Condition: First 350 km absolute carpet like road. Bad stretch of 100 & 30 km very bad stretch. 

The best part about any road trip is the food one could enjoy, and NH7 offers plenty of desi dhabas for the foodies.

Tadoba is the largest national park in Maharashtra covering 625 sq kilometers. Spot booking for jungle safari can be done at any of the entry gates for Rs.3250 per jeep. Jeep charges Rs.2000, camera lens over 250mm are charged at Rs 200, guide charges Rs.300 & entry fee is Rs.750. Entry fee is Rs.250 more on weekends. One can also take their car into the park which would cost around Rs.2250. Safari bookings are payable only by cash. Do plan your trip keeping in mind the weekly holiday of the park that falls on every Tuesday.

Basking In The Sun

The park has abundant teak that adds more charm, and the primary source of water is a huge lake that is beaming with water even during summer. This is one of the few parks where entry is not restricted just to the buffer zone. They have multiple entry gates for buffer and core zone. However, the best zone for wildlife sighting is Morhali.

Wild Dog

We were left intrigued by the stone pillars at the entrance of Morhali zone and we were informed by our guide that these used to be antique lamps posts during the Gond period.

Malabar Pied Hornbill

Star attractions of the park are Tigers, Leopards, sloth bear, wild boar, nilgai, barking deer and more. We stayed for 2 days and had great safaris. Spotted highly camouflaged Savanna Nightjar with chick, sloth bear, wild dog, bison with calf, beautiful Indian roller, malabar pied hornbill, jackal, woodpecker. It is a great experience to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The silence inside the jungle is golden and soothes your ears that are constantly exposed to high levels of noise pollution. The birds chirping, warning calls from potential prey, mating call... they all seem to be music. Once inside the park, one would not have the heart to leave.

Savanna Nightjar With Chick

There is never a dull moment inside the jungle and every experience is unique. One would never know what surprise nature has in store.

True That

We checked into Royal tiger resort which is only 500 mt away from the entry gate. Rooms were reasonably priced and food was exceptionally good, the service was also good. They have car park and lawn. Downside being - they don't offer complimentary breakfast. Cleanliness standards of rooms could be better.

After our sojourn in Tadoba, we headed to Pench National Park.

Story Of My Life!

Life is not about the Destination, but Journey!

Wanderers

Travelling liberated us from concrete jungle, a 9 to 5 desk job with a lot of perks/big pay check and many more creature comforts. We believed these kept us happy for over 7 long years.

From an early age we are tricked to believe that 'THINGS' give us happiness and one has to earn money to satisfy our materialistic needs and wants. As I started to earn and was able to fulfill those needs the list kept growing and I realized that at no point I'm going to be genuinely happy and satisfied with what I have.

A deep sense of missing the most important aspect of life was always lingering, ie living life! I wanted to break free from the monotonous life, set an alarm - wake up - eat breakfast - act busy - eat lunch - act busy for some more time - get back home - dinner - sleep. Do this over and over again for 5 days and wait for weekend to have fun.

It was at this point the most beautiful thing happened - I fell in love with the right person. Our mutual love for offbeat aspects got us together the bond flourished and it grew stronger as our mutual hatred towards materialistic things multiplied, magic happened we fell in love, got married and thus the journey started. Special thanks to Reshma for all the support, else I would be sitting behind a desk working on excel, repaying home loan.

Today we both have quit our jobs and are starting a new chapter in our lives. A business venture interlinked with travel. It may not be lucrative but it sure will keep us happy. 'Two Roads Diverge In a Yellow wood and we are taking the one less traveled...'

Before we could get remotely serious with anything in life we are planning to travel set ourselves free and take the leap of faith!

You have one life- Live it to your heart's content!

Drive Across Madhya Pradesh!

The Route Map

Call it fate, destiny or good planning, our second wedding anniversary was just around the corner and we decided to spend the whole month away. Living up to the tradition of month long anniversary celebration, last year we had toured Gujarat and Rajasthan by road and it was time for MP.

4 Wheels & 2 Souls

When you travel to a place, any misconceptions you have will turn out to be exactly THAT - "misconceptions!" After covering 4270 km and spending 43 days, MP truly took us by surprise. Right from the start we were shown great hospitality, greeted with smiling faces, got taste of traditional Indian Namaste everywhere. Best part of MP were the people - friendly, kind and helpful, making our trip even more memorable.

We were glad to meet a lot of like minded people who had quit their jobs to purse their passion. A marketing head from Bangalore & a vet doctor who decided to leave all creature comforts behind and have made the jungle their home.

Trip O Meter

Road trip to Heart Land of India - Land of the Royal Bengal Tiger, monuments, temples, holy Narmada, masjids, stupa, vindhya/satpura ranges & representing the land of Kamasutra, iconic Khajuraho temples. We covered 15 places, 3 world heritage sites, and 6 national parks. The sheer diversity of MP is awe-inspiring. It offers everything a tourist could dream of: wildlife, pilgrimage, historic monuments, adventure activities, prehistoric cave paintings, very first stone monument in India and the list does not end here.

Glimpse Of MP

We will soon be dedicating individual posts for each destination!

How To Best Prepare Your Bike For Long Road Trips!

Good maintenance of any vehicle is a must irrespective of taking it on long rides or not, this will ensure you have a trouble free ride. A bikes health and well being is as important as the riders' health. Respect the machine and you will be respected!

Long Ride Preps! 

• Engine oil! It's a must to replace engine oil every 2500-3000 km. Remember engine oil is life line of your bike. It's good idea to replace before long rides.  
• Engine Oil level should be between Max & Min. Do not worry about color, check viscosity. 
• Check/replace gear box oil.
• Check/Replace oil filter every 2500-3000 km.
• Check/replace air filter every 2500-3000 km..
• Check tyre tread depth if reached max lifetime/km do replace. 
• Check/Replace both tubes- will reduce chances of flat tire. 
• Check/replace clutch plates if necessary.
• Check drive and chain sprocket.
• Check condition of chain/weak or cracked links.
• Check/replace fork oil and seal. 
• Carburetor tuning.
• Wheel alignment & Get Rim True done if required.
• Get your bike serviced at-least 2 weeks in advance, this will help you test ride & fix any issues.
• Replace clutch/brake/accelerator cables. Do not discard old cables carry them as spares. 
• Check/replace brake shoe or disc pad if necessary.  
• Check/Replace De-comp cable in case of Standard Bullets 'CI Engine.'
• CI Engine Bullet Check condition of 'Electronic Points.'
• Replace spark plug every 12-15000 km.
• Check/refill battery electrolyte level.
• Recharge battery or replace old one. 
• Check/top up/replace disc brake oil.
• Check if seat cushioning is in good condition. Last thing you want is a sore bum and hard seat. 
• Check if all electrical components are working fine.
• Correct drive chain tension.
• Check and refill tire pressure every week.
• Correct tire pressure for Bullet Solo - F-20, R-30. With Pillion F-22, R-32. 

Spares

• Chain link lock assembly- 2 nos.
• Spark plug.
• Clutch lever (to replace in case of accident/fall) especially while riding to Leh (Black Ice!)
• Quality fuse (5 nos)
• Insulation tape.
• Bike spare Key.
• Butyl Tube. (3.25-19) fits front & rear just fine for Standard Bullet. 
• Headlight/Tail light Bulb.
• Engine oil (20w 50 for CI) for top ups, must after 500 km or in case of oil leak..
• Few nuts/bolts of various size.
• Foot Pump 
• Tubeless puncture kit. 
• Comprehensive Tool kit (original kit must.)
• Cutting plier to remove nail or sharp object stuck in tyre.
• Jerry can for spare fuel. Funnel or cut bottle neck (Dispose responsibly.)
• Bungee cord.
• Petrol pipe 1 -2 mt.
• Lubricant for chain (use every 500 km.)
• Grease. 
• Swiss army knife. 
• Permanent marker, could be used to mark the spot while dismantling wheel in case of flat tyre will be helpful while reassembling.
• First aid Kit.

Daily Checks

• Clean the bike every morning.
• Check engine oil level (best when engine is warm.)
• Check for any leaks.
• Frequently check for any cuts/cracks in tire, remove embedded gravel.
• While saddling bags be sure to tightly secure straps. 
• Start the engine and let in run for few minutes, warn up the engine before hitting the road.
• Max load bike could take is 175 kg, respect that limit. 

Brownie Points 

• While transporting bike always remember to remove the mirrors.
• Do not kill the engine immediately after long rides. Let it idle for few mins. 
• Never use exhaust pipe for support while loading bike.
• Do not over rev if stuck in muck or slush. Get down and try to push the bike. 
• Inspect/Replace helmet visor prior to long ride. 
• Carry all original vehicle documents + Photocopies. 
• Spend time at the work shop and learn basics mechanics.
• Always carry the owner manual, PDF form. 
• Torch is a must. 
• All specifications/numbers are for Standard Bullet CI engine. 
• If CI engine kicker fails! Push the bike down hill, engage de-compressor to release pressure and shift to 2nd gear, the bike should start. 
• I personally do not prefer the 'Leh Luggage Carrier,' instead I use saddle & tank bag. 
• For spare fuel I got an exclusive carrier fabricated (fits 10 liter can.)
• Safety gears absolute must!
• Always help a stranded biker/traveller. 

Above all be a passionate biker and not dare devil! Start early ride slow, enjoy and make memories on the way, appreciate Nature. There is no point in rushing and clocking kilometers. Try and avoid riding post sunset. 

Following the above tips should make sure one has a smooth ride however, if something goes wrong and bike fails do not panic try and identify the issue the solution would be fairly simple most of the times. Bikers are always up for adventures, we would have better stories to share!

"Four wheels move the body, two wheels move the soul!"  

India You Beauty

As some one rightly said, travel is the only thing you buy that makes you rich!

A lot of us want to travel across the world to see places that have been promoted well thru the power of advertising! This is an attempt to explore places in India that are worth a visit. Places I have traveled to. Snippets of places rich in history, wildlife, natural beauty, architectural marvels, adventure activities, beautiful beaches etc..

Lets start with my favourite, Wildlife-
Gir National Park, Sasan, Gujarat.

Unconditional Love 

Lion territory, home for the endangered Asiatic Lions. These majestic creatures once had their territory spread from Persia to whole of Asia. Credit to human intervention and rampant poaching there are only 411 odd lions left today and are found only in Gir.

Lion King!

Located in the tribal village of Sasan, Gir is 350 kms away from Ahmedabad.

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan.

Royal Bengal Tiger

Ranthambore national park is one of the largest NP's in Northern India. One of the best tiger reserves in India. It is famous for keeping wildlife enthusiasts engaged and happy. Go on a couple of safaris and it is guaranteed you would spot the majestic Bengal Tiger in the wild.

A Peacock Showing Off

Mudhumalai and Bandipur National Park.

Tiger On Prowl

Massive National park in South India, spread across 3 states Tamilnadu, Karnataka and Kerala. Part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Western side of the park is Midhumalai (TN) northern part is Bandhipur (KA.) 

Declared UNESCO world heritage site in 1986. It is one of the finest national parks in India. Home for Indian elephants, royal Bengal tigers and Indian leopards. 

Indian Elephant

Bharatpur Bird Park, Rajasthan. 

About To Take Flight

Also known as Keoladeo National Park, is brainchild of the great Salim Ali, who was popularly known as 'Birdman Of India.' This bird park is home for thousands of bird species both local and migratory.

Brunching Away

Curious Spotted Owl

Earlier this place served as bird shooting range for Maharajas and Britishers. It was declared World Heritage site in 1985.

Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat.

Asiatic Wild Ass

Famous for the Asiatic Wild Ass and salt panning, rann of kutch is located in remote Kutch district. Sanctuary is home for endangered Indian wild ass, nilgai, desert fox, local and migratory birds.

Desert Fox

Flamingos Taking Flight

Royal Rajasthan

The land of Royals, located in North Western India, bordering with Pakistan. Most of Rajasthan's land mass falls in the Thar desert. Also, know as the Great Indian Desert. This inhospitable terrain forms a natural boundary between India and Pakistan.

Rajasthan known for it's Royalty, has plenty of Fortresses, Palaces and rich history that goes with it. Kings feared and dreaded for their warfare, courage and valor. 

Thar Desert

The Great Indian Desert

Ship Of The Desert

Mount Abu

Rajasthan comprises of one the oldest mountain ranges in the world, Aravalli Range. The only hill station of the state, Mount Abu. The 11th Century Dilwara jain temple attracts thousands of pilgrims all round the year. It is one of the most beautiful Jain temples in the world., famous for exquisite and beautiful marble carvings. 

Sunset Over Nakki Lake

Udaipur, City Of Lakes 

Jag Mandir Island Palace

One of the most beautiful and scenic city in India. Famous lakes are Picola and Fateh sagar lakes. Picola houses the Taj Lake palace and Jag mandir Island palace. Both palaces are now converted into luxury hotels. 

Taj Lake Palace

One of the most romantic cities. Udaipur is referred to as 'Venice Of The East.' The City Palace Complex has multiple palaces and places of worship built in granite and marble. It also houses the crystal gallery, that consists of a complete range of household items in crystal that have never been used. A few to mention king size crystal bed, jewel studded carpet, sofa, crockery etc.

A Small Section Of City Palace

Jodhpur, Blue City

Old City Painted In Blue

Like any other royal city Jodhpur houses forts, palaces, havelis and magnificent places of worship. Jodhpur is termed as Gateway to the Thar. It is placed in the edge of the great desert. 

Massive Mehrangarh Fort

Drive from Jodhpur to Jaiselmer is unique and amazing. Jodhpur city grew around the magnificent Mehrangarh fort. The vivid blue painted houses around the fort are eye candy. Hence the name 'Blue City.'

Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Maharaja of Jodhpur lives here even today. Half of the palace is converted to luxury hotel.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

Jaipur, Pink City

Jaipur Palace Complex

Jaipur, also known as Pink city of India, is one of the first planned cities. It attracts tons of tourist, it is a part of tourist golden triangle - Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. Jaipur has several attractions like Jal mahal, Hawa mahal, city palace etc. 

Jal Mahal

Hawa Mahal

Jaisalmer, Golden City

Jaisalmer lies in the heart of Thar desert. A camel safari in the dunes of the desert is an unforgettable experience. The yellow sand stone used in constructions earns the name Golden City Of India. Unlike other forts in India, Jaisalmer fort aka 'Sonar Quila' is a living fort. 

The Golden Fort

Visiting the havelis and dune safaris is a must. 

Desert Safari At Sam Dunes

Manganiyar Playing Kamaycha

Bikaner, City Of Chaat

Needless to say Binaker is most famous for its sweets and namkeen. The market road is teeming with chat outlets and is a paradise for food lovers. Bhujia from this part of India is exported to all parts of the world. Digging into sankhla kulfi is a must.

Laxmi Niwas Palace

Another great attraction is Laxmi Nivas Palace, part of which is converted to luxury hotel. It has an in-house museum worth a visit. 

Desert safaris are also available. Considered second only to Jaisalmer. 

Ajmer, And Pushkar 

Encircled by the breathtaking Aravalli range, Ajmer and Pushkar are famous for pilgrimage sites, Sufi Dargah and Bhrama Temple respectively. 

Dargah of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti is located in the foot hills of Taragarh. Adhai din ka Joompra a hindu temple converted into a mosque by Qutbuddin Aybak is worth a visit. It was converted in two and a half days, hence the name. 

Pushkar is only 11 kms away from Ajmer. Pushkar houses a 14th century temple for Lord Bhrama. According to Hindu Purana Pushkar is the only place where Bhrama could be worshiped. 

Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh Fort

The massive fort on a hill top was built thru 15 to 19th century by Rana Kumbha. Its the birthplace of the great king Maharana Pratap known for his valor. The outer walls of this massive fort extend to 38 kms. Claimed to be the second longest continuous wall after the Great wall of China. The outer wall could be see from any part of the city. 

Small Section Of the 36 km Long Fort Wall

Other attraction is the Kumbhalgarh wildlife park. One of the most difficult terrains, you can either trek or hire a 4 by 4 jeep safari. The park is home for endangered leopards, four horned antelope. You can also spot wild species of birds. 

Crested Hawk-Eagle

Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh is home for the largest fort in India. The fort is famous for Jauhar (act of immolating by jumping into fire) of Rani Padmini. It is believed that women of the royal family performed Jauhar in the thousands. The Merwars have exhibited courage and bravery, they embraced death instead of surrendering to enemy forces.  

Meera Mandir

Meera mandir dedicated to Lord Krishna. Fort also houses Vijay/Kriti Stambha, Rana Kumbha/Padmini Palace. 

Mesmerising Maldives

Magical Maldives casts its spell on you even before your flight could touch down! Stunning view of turquoise blue water, white sands and coral reef makes one fall in love with the place instantly. Numerous resorts dotted across the Indian Ocean add to the beauty. 

Beach Villas

Male is the capital and largest city, housing the airport. Over 1000 tiny islands clubbed into 26 atolls makes Maldives. Carrying alcohol, pornography etc into Maldives is an offence and forbidden. The official website mentions an exhaustive list of items banned. Likewise carrying seashells, corals etc out of the country is an offence. 

Resort

After weighing all options and taking multiple parameters into consideration, we decided to book Meeru Island resort. In my opinion the best resort, it is built on one of the biggest islands. 

You are received promptly at the airport and a 40 Min speed boat ride gets you to Meeru Resorts. En route be sure you look out for school of dolphins that would greet you by criss-crossing your boat. 

Meeru offers multiple accommodation options Garden rooms, beach/jacuzzi villas, water/jacuzzi villas and honeymoon suites. We booked jacuzzi water villa built over water offering you private entry into the lagoon. It is secluded and has large bedrooms/bathrooms, private jacuzzi and sun deck offerings awesome view. Meeru has minimum stay policy meaning one would have to book for a minimum of 6 nights its completely worth it and we never got bored. 

Jacuzzi Water Villas

Private Entry Into The Lagoon

Lagoon surrounding the resort is blessed with abundant coral reefs and marine life. Resort houses 2 swimming pools over looking the beach, bars, tennis courts, soccer field, golf course, cycling. kayaks and many more. 

There are 2 restaurants to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner food is great especially Friday night "Maldivian Night." Apart from the 2 restaurants there is an over the water restaurant 'Asian Wok' which serves Asian cuisine. 

The resort also offers well organized leisure tours "Sand Bank" excursion is highly recommend. It is simply amazing to visit a sand bank and spend quality time in middle of mighty ocean snorkelling just adds more charm. You get dropped in the morning with breakfast and beverages nicely packed they come by in couple of hours to pick you up. 

White Sands Beach

The spa is top notch and built over the lagoon. The therapist are highly skilled, personally "Full Moon Magic" is recommended. 

Environmental experts predict that the Island nation would submerge under water by end of this century thanks to global warming and human race! So pack your bags visit Maldives bask in the sun be Robinson curios!

Visa: 
Maldives offers free 30 days Visa on Arrival. 
Srilankan airlines is recommended if flying from India.

Must Have:
Sunscreen
Shades
Carry own snorkeling gear.