Off-Track Backpacking » India

July 2013 – A month never to forget

Nara — Sat, 17 Aug 2013 02:17:55 +0000

July has been a month filled with travel, adventure and life changing experiences!

It all started July 1. I left for India for two weeks. It was my first real trip that I didn’t plan and it was my second time to Asia. But this time I was in the real Asia. (Well from my perspective) My first stop was Delhi, a busy city filled with endless amounts of history and lots of culture shock. But the highlight was seeing the Taj Mahal in Agra! Wow!! Even though it was plus 45 C and my body was draining in sweat, I still couldn’t believe I was seeing it with my own eyes! It was one of those things on the top bucket travel lists, so you can only imagine my excitment. I finally checked it off!!

The next part of my India trip was volunteering in the Northern regions. As for explaining how I felt, learned, and experienced, well that will have to be another few articles. But for now please see my photos below.

The Art of India

Nara — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 01:26:11 +0000

Photo credit: blogs.calumet.purdue.edu

For years now, I have always dreamed of exploring the land of India. With its history linking back thousands of years that includes invasions, the rise and fall of empires, colonization and the independence. It has made me want to wander around and explore the country’s culture and traditions, by viewing its buildings, land and people. With this all is mind, below I have included a list of this things I want to see when I do go to India.

Kolkata: It’s the capital of west Bengal. Where not only will you see the busy business center, but also the impressive markets, colonial buildings, and amazing central parkland.

The Wonder Train: Its one of the only trains in India that will take you on a ride of wonder and luxury. You can hop on this train from Darjeeling or Shimla. You can also take this train around the causal city of Goa and tour the palace on wheels of the golden Triangle.

Goa Beaches: The place where many travelers flock to, and was once part of the hippy trail in the 60’s. It’s the land of beach huts, eco-camps, and yes resorts too. But its golden sandy beaches are where the paradise lies. With over 105km of coastline and lots of fun on the beach, every traveler wants to explore this magical place.

Hindu Festivals: To really grasp the India traditions, take a jump at seeing one of the festivals. They usually take part in September and October and are filled with enchanting noise. It’s full of colour, music, food, and dancing. The festival is held in honour of the goddess Durga.

Holy Temples: To explore some of the most amazing temples in the country is located in Orissa state. The city of Bhubanwswar has a few notable temples such as Lingaraj Temple. The city of Konarak has the Sun Temple and the home of the most stunning Buddhist cave temples is located in Ajanta.

Delhi: The city of two stories, one with the modern city that includes Lutyen’s architecture or the old side, where everything is ancient. With centuries old building, narrow streets, shrines and temples. It’s a city that is a must see, when you do visit India.

Taj Mahal and the Golden Triangle: One of the most stunning attractions throughout the entire country. It is also known as: Golden Triangle”.

Root Bridges in India

Nara — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 03:20:07 +0000

While most famous bridges around the world are built, a Northeast region in India called Cherrapunji is famous for bridges that are grown. Yes, grown!

This part of India is one of the most humid and wet regions of the world which allows for an abundance of rivers and rubber trees. Bridges are grown over rivers by using a nut trunk to lead the root of the rubber tree in the right direction. The root will eventually go over the river and grow a root in the soil, on the other side of the bridge. In time, the bridge will become sturdy enough to allow about 50 people at a time. Some bridges are over 100 ft long and it takes about 10 to 15 years for a bridge to be fully grown and safe for villagers to use.

Source: The Root Bridges of Cherrapunji

Jodhpur – the place to start backpacking in India

Nara — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 01:05:47 +0000

Jodhpur, better known as the Sun City of India. Jodhpur is the center of Rajasthan and located on the northeast part of India. It is said that this year, Jodhpur is the perfect place to start your India adventure. A few places to see are the Period Rooms and the ancient sword that is located in the well-known museum in Jodhpur. However, the most important sites to see within this city are the streets and buildings. The homes stand on a cliff throughout little squares that are designed with a washed out white and fading blue. Surrounding these home are Jodhpur ancient grey walls of the Mehrangarh Fort. So once you start walking within the street of this beautiful city, you will feel like going back in time.
For all those backpackers planning on going to this stunning city, I would recommend going between Oct 21st and November only because Rajasthan International Folk Festival starts. With over 200 people singing and international performing dancing throughout the streets this is one five day festival of culture, music, partying, and getting involved with the locals, you will not want to miss. Now what should you eat while you visit this city? Well the most popular choice would include Kachouri, which are small deep fried dumplings with a spicy bean filling inside. Plus they come with a side dish of a sweet tangy chutney. Many of the locals use very little water in all their meals, so the food can be a little thick, due to the use of lots of milk and butter. Yes, your diet will change from being healthy to very fatty!! But as far as drinks go, the locals love to use lime water, but only when the limes are freshly squeezed, better known as Nimbu Pani. So over all the drinks and the food will equal themselves out, but do be prepared for some fried food and lots of it.
Many backpackers have never heard of this city, but I strong recommend you checking it, since it is off – track compared to most cities and sites in India.