There are a couple of routes to travel to Lucknow, but I decided to take a tour of the Mughal city, Agra, and explore it en route. The trip is around 554 km when we take the newly built Taj or Yamuna Express. After looking at the views of it in the movie Piku, I couldn’t resist my temptation to see it through my own eyes. 

Lucknow – The City of Nawabs 

I always wanted to travel to Lucknow after reading and watching about it while growing up. Besides some of the best Nawab Kothis, the city offers the best Mughlai cuisine as well. This Uttar Pradesh capital has a list of tourist spots and some of the best eateries to rejoice. –

Recommended Story – A ROAD TRIP WITH FAMILY FROM DELHI TO RISHIKESH

Route Map:

To reach Lucknow there are a few ways but the common route is via Agra. 

Delhi > Mathura > Agra > Kannauj > Lucknow 

Taj/Yamuna Expressway and then Agra Lucknow Expressway 

Distance: 533 km

Essentials Needed 

The journey from the national capital to the Uttar Pradesh capital is around 7 hours 30 minutes. In this day’s long journey, one must be prepared with all the necessary documents and essentials. These are mostly the vehicle documents and enough cash. Most importantly, ensure that the car has Fast Tag, as per the new Motor Vehicle Act. 

I decided to hire a self-driving car from Delhi as it ensured that the car is in good condition and has the necessary documents needed for the travel. If you’re travelling in your car, along with all the essentials make sure your tyre is proper. It’s always important to get the car thoroughly checked before making a long journey, like this. 

Delhi to Agra  Road Trip

Delhi and Agra are not that far, thanks to Yamuna Expressway. It is just 212 km away that gave me the courage to take a halt here and check out the city before moving towards Lucknow. I started early from Delhi, at around 7 AM so that I can be at Agra by around 10 AM, the time by which restaurants will start operating and I can eat amazing breakfast. 

Though there were a couple of restaurants on the highway, I thought of entering the city and get mesmerized by the Taj Mahal. After all, if you’ve not seen Taj Mahal, the token of eternal love when you’re in Agra, it a shame.

Taj Mahal – A Token Of Love

I decided to go someplace close to the monument so that I don’t have to spend much time travelling from one place to another in the city. I zeroed on Yes Restaurant, which is located at the Western Gate of Taj Mahal. The food served is decent and economical. Besides, it’s hygienic 

After having a good breakfast, without wasting a moment, I visited the Taj Mahal. There are e-rickshaws to take you to the ticket counter from the main gate and they’re quite reasonable.  The rickshaw pullers will take you to the small indigenous shopping centre within the premisses. They have handicrafts form the region and is set up by the government to promote local art. 

From the ticket counter to the monument, there is quite a good walk. However, you can stop at various places to admire the beauty of the Taj Mahal. I was there when the sun was already moving up in the middle of the sky, but I couldn’t control my imagination how it would look during the wee hours of the day when there is mist in the air and the sun is just rising. That would be the picturesque moment one mustn’t miss. 

After spending some time there and refreshing my soul by the sheer beauty of the surrounding, I decided to move ahead in my journey. 

Raja Sumer Singh’s Fort – Etawah 

After driving on the Yamuna Expressway, it was time for me to drive on Agra-Lucknow Expressway. On the way, I decided to take a detour to another historical monument, Raja Sumer Singh’s Forst at Etawah. It is around 124 km from Agra and towards the south of the city. 

This fort has a rich history. It is also known as Barah Dwaar Kila, the fort with 12 doors. However, people have always failed to locate the 12th door. The original fort got damaged due to the natural wear and tear. The government re-built a fresh fort, which stands atop on the original structure. This is now been maintained by the government. 

The fort is next to the River Yamuna. Built on the hill close to the river, the legends say that the fort was known to have various tunnels or secret passages. Indeed, there is no comparison to its original structure, this fort still depicts the lavish lifestyle people had during that era. 

Kannauj – A City With Historical Importance

Kannauj, which was once the prominent city of northern India, is around 110 km from Etawah. It is established on the banks of Ganges. The city is rich in archaeological findings and they are all displayed at Government Archaeological Museum in the city. The department found various ancient artefacts, such as coins, pottery, sculptures, and terra cotta. These were, until recently, at the common man’s house and now are displayed at the museum. 

Upon studying them it was found that these belong to the different historical periods, right from the Maurya Empire of 325 BC to the Gupta Empire, which as between 319-600 AD. Besides these, some pre-historic bone were also found in the area. 

The list of must-visit was big, but I decided to pay a visit to the 500-year-old Siddheswar Temple on the banks of Ganges. This temple is known for its construction and faith. During the full-moon night in October (Sharad Purnima) a large number of devotees come to pray. During my visit, the rather quiet bank of Ganges turns into a bustling Mela ground during Sharad Purnima. 

Apart from the historical connection and amazing temples or historical monuments, Kannauj is also known for its perfumes. Before I make a move to Lucknow, I decided to buy some of the perfumes from here to remind me of my lovely trip to this ancient town. 

Kannauj to Lucknow – The Final Destination 

Kannauj was my last halt on my way to Delhi to Lucknow. From Kannauj, Lucknow is around 123 km from the Agra-Lucknow expressway. As I moved towards my final destination to Lucknow, I looked back at the halts I took and their historical significance. Be it Agra were I had a lovely trip to Agra and appreciated the token of love. Or, be it a walk at the Raja Sumer Singh’s Fort that’s full of mysteries. Or be a visit to 500-years-old Siddheshwar Temple on the banks of river Ganges. 

These small detours and halts did make this journey memorable. As far as Lucknow is concerned, it has got a rich history that can’t be explained in just words. As I went to all the historical monuments, like Rumi ka Darwaza, Chota Imambara, The Residency, Dilkusha Kothi, Safed Baradari, and others. 

Rumi Darwaza

If you’re also planning a road trip from Delhi to Lucknow via Agra, do keep in mind that these three halts, Agra, Etawah and Kannauj, are lovely places. You can either take a couple of days halt to roam around or can just take a small detour to enjoy the beauty of the city. Have a lovely trip! 

Recommended Story – ADVENTUROUS ROAD TRIPS IN INDIA ONLY FOR THE BRAVEHEARTS

The post A Road Trip Worth Remembering: Delhi – Lucknow Via Agra -+- appeared first on Roadtales.

The pristine woods will fill the void of your heart with happiness. Shillong receives the highest rainfall in the world and looks more lively during monsoons. Considering heavy rains are not favourable for road trips, we planned our expedition in the month of September when the rain is scant and the place is still very enjoyable.

The 99-km Guwahati-to-Shillong road trip is a 3-hour journey and is teeming with breathtaking scenery. We took the NH40 route, which is well connected and maintained. It drizzled lightly while we were travelling, which was enthralling and soothing.

On the GS Road, we took a short break and had refreshments at a local eatery and commenced our road trip.

Recommended Story – MUMBAI TO MOUNT ABU – ROAD TRIP MEMOIR

Places To Visit In Shillong

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, houses exciting places enthralling mountain peaks, museums that preserve and reflect Shillong history and culture, beautiful landscapes, waterfalls and more. It took us 3 hours 15 minutes to reach Shillong from Guwahati and we took a short halt and started exploring the ebbs and depths of mystic Shillong.

Umiam Lake

Ten kilometres from the north of Shillong lies a spectacular man-made reservoir that generates hydroelectric power to cater to the State’s electricity needs. The dam led to the formation of the beautiful Umiam Lake surrounded by the lush greenery of the East Khasi hills. We picnicked at a park adjoining the lake, went on a boat ride, clicked amazing pictures and watched the beautiful sundown. The eye-catching flora and fauna around the reservoir include coniferous forests sprawled over 222 square kilometres of land. We sat back and savoured the Gulmohar trees and the pleasant winds, and observed the daily life of the natives who came to the river for foraging twigs and grass, and fishermen paddling in the steady waters.

There are provisions for pedal boating, water scooter ride (5 to 10 minutes), speed boat, river bus ride (20 to 60 minutes) and water skiing at the lake from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

Elephant Falls

The next day, we visited the most popular waterfalls in the country, Elephant Falls, which is 8 km from the city centre. During colonial rule, the British named these waterfalls after the elephant-shaped rock at the foot of the waterfalls. You don’t get to look at this elephant-like stone anymore as it was lost to an earthquake years ago. The locals now call these falls “Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew,” meaning the three-step waterfalls.

There are three waterfalls layered in succession, accessible to people from different vantage points. The top-most step of the waterfall is very broad and crammed between dense forests, the second step waterfall has thin waters that go obsolete during winters and the third step of the waterfall is the tallest with clear and milky-white water cascading from the black stones. We are in awe of these impressive waterfalls, especially the third step. This place also makes a great backdrop for pictures and will act as a great canvas for photography enthusiasts.

Shillong Peak

Towering at a height of 6,449 ft and 1,965 m above sea level, Shillong Peak is the highest point in Shillong. From this point, you can get a panoramic view of the entire city, the Himalayas and the Bangladesh plains. Telescopes are made available at this peak for the tourists to get a 360-degree view from the peak. We trekked our way to this amazing peak. Check the weather before scaling the peak, as the place may experience heavy snowfall and can be quite risky to climb.

It is believed that Shillong got its name from this peak and that the patron deity Lei Shyllong lives in this peak and protects the people from all evils. Rituals are conducted at a U Shulong site at this peak as it is considered sacred and spiritual. As the peak situated at the airforce base it houses the radar station of the Indian Air Force due to which high-security checkings are made at the entry point to the peak, so you need to carry a valid id proof with you.

Don Bosco Museum

If you want to learn the culture and tradition of North East India, you ought to visit Asia’s largest Museum of Indigenous Cultures, Don Bosco Museum, in the Mawlai area. The museum has 16 galleries showcasing artefacts, figurines, and paintings related to Northeastern culture in a seven-storey building. We experienced the local culture and got insights into the living and lifestyles of North-East people.

Prominent people from across the world, like the princess of Thailand, have visited this museum. The Don Bosco Museum also exhibits high architectural artwork with its hexagonal shape and is referred to as Shillong’s architectural pride. Art competitions are often held at this museum, so you will see many writers, artists, musicians, and lyricists from different parts of the country at this museum.

The museum is open from Monday to Saturday (9:00 am to 5:30 pm) during summers, and Monday to Saturday (9:00 am to 4:30 pm) in winters (December 1 to January 31). Entry fee is Rs. 100 for adults, Rs. 50 for students, and Rs. 200 for foreigners.

Ward’s Lake

Ward’s Lake is a simple yet popular picnic spot lying in the heart of Shillong; several locals and tourists come to this lake to unwind and spend time with loved ones. The lake is shaped like a horseshoe and is also known as Pollock’s Lake. We loved sitting near the lake and watching the colour play of flowerbeds and listening to the bird’s chirps. There is a small bridge created on the lake from where you can feed the fishes and watch. Paddle boating is also available at the lake.

The lake is open from 8:30 am to 5:20 pm during November to February, and 8:30 am to 7:00 pm during March to October. Entry fee for adults is Rs. 10 and for kids it is Rs. 5.

David Scott Trail

If you have an appetite for trekking, then you must scale the 16-km long David Scott Trail from Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang. The trail has popular villages with rich culture, history and folklore. Directions to navigate the trail are not available. You have to ask locals to help you with this. There are breathtaking landscapes, rivers, cascading waters, massive rock formations, meadows and water streams along the trail, to keep you going.

If you start at the Mawphlang village, you will traverse through windy hills, mountains, and valleys. Take a short break at Ka Kor Ka Shonmai, explore the tomb of Camilia, experience the thrill of the hanging bridge over river Umain and listen to the folklores on the way to Lad Mawphlang.

Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydari Park is the most popular park in Shillong, named after the first lady of Assam. The entrance of the park has a Japanese style garden that will catch the attention of the visitors. The round-shaped hedges and willow trees keep up the vibe of the park and connect to nature.

There is a small lake in the park where you can find ducks and colorful small fishes. There is a playing area for kids and the museum, zoo, and boating activities in the park which keep both kids and adults entertained. Even a leisurely stroll to the park on the paved walkways and manicured lawns is an experience in itself.

Sweet Falls

Located at 5 km from Happy Valley in Shillong, Sweet Falls is the steepest, most beautiful waterfall in India. But don’t let the name ‘Sweet Falls’ trick you because this mesmerizing waterfall is notoriously dangerous. The route to the falls is treacherous. The slippery stones make it even worse. Don’t plan a visit to this waterfall during monsoons. There are some stories of hauntings linked to this place. The locals say that people who visit these falls in odd numbers will return in even numbers.

The verdant greenery, butterfly museum, and a mini zoo at the waterfalls are also worth visiting. Government has restricted the place for visits for a while and marked the place as a danger zone due to accidents. With good safety measures and caution, you can make the most of this serene and amazing waterfall. Note, do not plunge into the waterfalls and wear slip-resistant shoes.

The vehicle entry fee for this falls is Rs. 70 and it takes 2 hours to tour the waterfalls.

There are countless museums in Shillong that preserve and feature the indigenous culture and history of Shillong. Every museum has its own grandeur; out of the wide list of museums in Shillong, The Butterfly Museum, Wankhar Entomology Museum, The Arunachal State Museum, Meghalaya State Museum, and the Rhino Museum are must-visits.

Shillong is a spellbindingly beautiful city, and you need to invest time to explore this magical place.

Also Read –  A ROAD TRIP WITH FAMILY FROM DELHI TO RISHIKESH

The post Guwahati to Shillong: A Picturesque Road Journey. appeared first on Roadtales.

Recommended Story – TOP 10 AUTOMOTIVE RELATED YOUTUBERS IN INDIA

• Convoy Control Club 

The Convoy Control Club is a group of motorcycle riders spread across the country. They’re based in Jaipur, and conduct all-India rides with a social cause all the time. One of the most inspiring things about CCC is that they only allow riders with a physical disability. 

• Assam Bikers’ Club 

As the name suggests, Assam Bikers’ Club (ABC) is based in Assam. They’re a mixed group of motorcycle riders with a passion to open up their land to the world. Generally, the largest motorcycle riding clubs are the RE ones, but that’s what sets ABC apart. Everyone’s allowed. The group has risen to fame thanks to a number of brand sponsorships and event management contracts. 

• Mumbai Musafirs 

The Mumbai Musafirs was (and still is) one of the most professionally-run motorcycle clubs in India. There’s an admin panel, support staff, planning staff and accounts staff, along with a marketing team that make sure that the overall operations run as smoothly as a well-oiled chain. They were born in 2011, and till date, have covered lakhs and lakhs of kms together. All you need to participate is to sign up on their website. 

• 60kph

60kph is an all-India motorcycle group founded in 2002. The group ethos revolves around smaller groups and long distances. The minimum ride distance is 500km, so it’s going to be tough for a newbie to step into 60kph without some experience. 

• Naked Wolves 

Naked Wolves only allow Pulsar 200-NS owners. It’s one of the first offline brand-loyal motorcycle clubs in the country. NW has chapters in 12 cities in India, and in 5 cities abroad, with numbers rising as Bajaj expands operations all over the world. Naked Wolves has a strong adventurous streak in them, and they also organise and shoot stunt videos. 

Recommended Story – TOP 10 INDIAN WOMEN BIKERS CRUSHING THE STEREOTYPES ON WHEELS

• Teesta Thumpers Motorcycle Club 

In case you’re still wondering, West Bengal is very much a hotbed of motorcycling activity. Key to this is the state’s proximity to the North-East, and hill stations like Darjeeling, Kurseong and others, which until recently were only considered honeymooners’ haunts. Teesta Thumpers was founded in 2013, and since then, has organised and participated in almost every major motorcycling meet in India. As the name suggests, you will need to purchase a Royal Enfield to participate in their events. 

• Nagaland Motorcycle Club 

Nagaland is one of the most beautiful states in India, and to know all about the state, follow the Nagaland Motorcycle Club. This group of tough and rugged riders was founded in 2010, and if you scroll through their news updates, you’ll see how much they’re doing to promote tourism in the state. Most of their rides require expert-level off-roading skills, by the way 

• Bangalore Jawa Yezdi Motorcycle Club

The Bangalore Jawa Yezdi Motorcycle Club is a vintage enthusiasts’ club founded in Bangalore in 2008. Over the years, they have added thousands of followers and active riders to their social and off-line channels. They also organise events to celebrate the history of Jawa Motorcycles, an iconic brand that swept teenagers off their feet in the 60s and the 70s. If you own a Jawa and are looking for a spare part that’s long gone out of production, BJYMC is your best bet. They have chapters across the country, but they’re based in Bangalore. 

Recommended Story – World Motorcycle Day 2019: Tyremarket.com Brings Excitement to the Moto-Day Celebration in Bengaluru

• Bajaj Avenger Club 

Not to be confused with Bajaj’s Avenger Gods, the Bajaj Avenger Club is a self-sufficient guild of Avenger riders founded a decade ago. The first chapter started in Bengaluru, and they have now expanded all over the country. The Bajaj Avenger Club is a brand-loyal club, and their rides have some of the highest attendances in India. When there’s a BAC ride, you’ll see hundreds of their bikes trundling along, expertly piloted by experienced riders. 

• Inddie Thumpers 

Inddie Thumpers is a Bullet-only motorcycle group that was founded in 2001, back when riding for pleasure was almost unheard of. Over the years, the Inddie Thumpers clan grew big, and soon they started organising events. IT has held the Rider Mania twice, in 2005 and 2010, and that’s considered a great honour for a motorcycling club. They’re spread all across the country and abroad.

• Dukes of Nagpur 

Nagpur, the centre-point of India, is also a huge hub of motorcycling activity all throughout the year. One of the biggest clubs in Nagpur is DON, a KTM-centric motorcycle riding fraternity that has made off-roading it’s own. The group is led by an expert team of medical professionals and other highly-experienced people and is the go-to club for all new riders in Nagpur. 

• Palampur Bikers Club 

The Palampur Bikers Club was founded in 2010 by a group of adventure enthusiasts in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. Over the years, they’ve expanded operations into the tourism business. Along with that, PBC also supports a number of key initiatives for better tourism and a cleaner environment. This is one biking club you have to check out the next time you visit Himachal Pradesh. 

• Warriors Motorcycle Club 

A relatively new player, Warriors Motorcycle Club is a Royal Enfield-only biking group with chapters in Mumbai, Pune and Vadodara. The group was formed in 2016 and has started to gain attention because of their high-quality riders and their strong support of social causes. 

• Call Of Riders Biking Club 

CORBC for short, the Call of Riders Biking Club was actually formed by colleagues (later best friends) who worked at the same organisation. The group consists of like-minded motorcycle enthusiasts who ride everything under the sun. The best part about CORBC is their iconic ride start signal, which is a tune played by honking their horns. 

• Lady Riders of India 

If you’re new to the biking scene, then you should definitely read up on one Dr.Maral Yarzaloo-Pattrick. Let’s just say she’s the hardest lady rider ever to kick-start a motorcycle. She holds a world record for clocking the most kilometres on a single bike (250,000). And when she starts her own all-female club, you know it’s special. Lady Riders of India, founded in 2016, in Pune, is exclusively for female riders who own big bikes (650cc and above). 

On the whole, we’ve barely scratched the surface when it comes to listing the best motorcycling clubs in the country. But you need to realise that the best motorcycling club in the world is one that lets you be who you are, and rides at a pace you’re comfortable with. Whether it’s big or small, a good motorcycle club is made up of good people. And that’s what counts. 

Also Read – Top 5 Tyre Brands for Two-Wheelers In India

The post Top Motorcycle Clubs in India appeared first on Roadtales.

Many people go to the extent of customising their vehicles by decorating them with flashy stickers and other types of add-ons. At times, the affection carries over to the interiors, when owners go all out decking out their vehicles as lavishly as possible. There was a time when one had to make all the upgrades to the paint job, upholstery and the overall cosmetics of their vehicle by sweating away in a workshop for hours, trying to get it right. Now, however, you can buy cars and bikes accessories all online.

Here’s our list of the most useful interior and exterior accessories for cars and bikes. 

Recommended Story – Buying tyres online- A Bliss!!

• Pillow Neck Rest

Pillow neck rests are great if you drive for more than a 100 km a day. They can be fixed to the back of the driver and/or passenger front seat. A pillow neck rest is made out of soft fibre material and should offer firm support to the area behind the neck. The best ones are covered with nylon or a sweat-absorbent material. 

• Glass Cleaning Tablets 

A glass-cleaning tablet is a lot like dry soap powder. All you need to do is to mix it with water, and you have a detergent solution. Normal window shampoos make quite a mess. Glass cleaning tablets are easier to store, and can be used in any weather. They work well on motorcycle headlight covers, helmet visors and rear-view mirrors, too 

• Fast Charger

A fast charger is compatible with most phones that use adaptive charging. This protects your phone from heating up while charging. Car chargers also come with a number of USB slots, so you can charge other gadgets, or plugin a travel adapter with multiple outlets if you have more than one phone. While purchasing one, make sure you go for a branded one. A short-circuit will be disastrous.

• Portable Vacuum Cleaner 

 Portable Vacuum cleaners do a great job of keeping your car’s interiors spic and span. While purchasing one, make sure you get the longest possible power cord and at least two flexible heads. The longer power cords make it easy to reach under the seats and in spaces otherwise inaccessible. Flexible hoses let you clean dust and dirt under your doormats. 

• Seat Organisers 

An organiser can be fixed to the back of a car seat. It has a number of pockets and zipped attachments where you can store essentials like medicines, water, and emergency rations. It can also be used for storing your documents, and baby supplies– if you like going on long drives with your family. 

• Tank Bags 

Tank Bags are a great way to carry all your essentials while on a long bike ride. They come in various shapes and sizes. Depending on your motorcycle, they can be attached magnetically or with straps. While buying tank bags, select something that comes with protective flaps — it protects your tank from scratches while mounting and removing the bags. Tank bags should be big enough to store your helmet and must be waterproof. 

• Motorcycle Side Bags 

Motorcycle side bags are also called saddlebags. They come handy if you’re a long-distance rider. While buying one, make sure you go for a design that has as few straps as possible. Too many straps will run the risk of fouling with the rear wheels. There have been cases when the bags have actually caught fire because of friction due to fouling with the wheels. 

• Motorcycle Top Cases

If you want to do away with soft motorcycle luggage, a top case is a good idea.  A top case is a rigid suitcase that fits firmly on the rear end of a motorcycle. Top cases generally come with their own mounts. Some even have in-built coolers, warmers and lights. They’re quite expensive but are tough, sturdy and weather-proof. You will need practice riding with a top-case, though. 

• Aftermarket Palm Grips 

Holding a motorcycle throttle grip is a technique most overlook. You need to slide your palm to speed up. Most riders, on the other hand, tend to ‘choke’ the grip, hurting their fingers in the process. Thankfully, there are a lot of gel-filled motorcycle palm grips out there that absorb all the force and prevent pain. 

• Raised Handlebars 

Most adventure bikes come factory-fitted with raised handlebars. That’s because the more upright your riding posture, the easier it is to cover long distances. Raised handlebars maintain this upright posture by keeping your elbows at a near-90-degree angle to your torso. This reduces lumbar muscle strain. 

• Reflective Stickers 

Retro-reflective decals look great at night, and also make night drives and ride safer. When the headlights from a vehicle in front of or behind you bounce off a reflective sticker, the retro-reflective properties of the material illuminate it. This increases your visibility to other motorists. 

• Hazard Lights 

Hazard lights are useful while riding information or when visibility is low. Remember, there’s a much higher chance of being rear-ended than actually smashing into a vehicle in front. Hazard lights are operated by a segment-switched LED controller, so you don’t need to replace your lights. They’re best installed on turn indicators, as they consume the least power. 

• Magnetic Sunshades 

Magnetic sunshades are lined with a permanent magnetic material that fixes on to the window sill of a car. When fixed firmly, a magnetic sunshade can be used even when the windows are lowered. They’re best used in the rear-side windows, as they also provide privacy and protection from the elements. Some are waterproof, too.

• LED DRLs

DRLs or Daytime Running Lights make a car stand out during the day and at night. You see, the human eye detects brighter objects faster than dull ones. Hence, a brightly-coloured DRL, if placed appropriately, will make your vehicle easily detectable in the day and at night. DRLs are made out of LED strips and can be used for cars and bikes alike.

• Bluetooth Hands-Free Mics

Since answering a phone call, no matter how urgent, is illegal in India, a Bluetooth hands-free device may do the trick. It plugs into the power socket of a car, and when paired with your phone, streams calls and messages through a pair of speakers (from the sound system that comes installed in every car). Some BT devices also come with their own speaker systems and are small enough to be carried home. 

• Bluetooth Speakers

Bluetooth speakers are a great way to listen to music while riding a motorcycle. All you need is a mount, which you can either fabricate or purchase online. Mounting them on the tank is the best option.  Make sure that the speakers are waterproof and light enough to be carried home. You should also be able to charge them using the portable mobile charger power outlet. 

• Steering Covers 

If you have small hands, you may have a problem gripping the steering wheel firmly. Since changing the whole steering wheel is a costly fix, a much cheaper option is to fix grippy steering wheel covers. Good wheel covers are made out of rubber and have ribs and spikes, much like soccer boots. Some are perforated, too. They’re available at most accessory shops, and can also be purchased online. 

While accessorising your vehicle, make sure you’re quite clear about what the law says you can and can’t do. Check out the latest amendments to the Motor Vehicle Bill. Generally, any modification that goes over and above manufacturer specs is considered illegal. This means no air horns, no tinted windows (especially the blacked-out ones), oversized wheels, or aftermarket exhausts. While most accessories merely tune up the looks, many turn out to be quite useful. We always recommend function over form. 

Recommended Story – Top 10 Helmet Brands for Two-Wheelers in India

The post Most Useful Accessories for Cars & Bikes appeared first on Roadtales.

Luckily, there are a number of great trekking places around Mumbai that would please any trekking enthusiast. Prabalgad Fort is one of them. After multiple delays in the plan, it finally came to fruition. 

How to Reach Prabalgad Fort 

Prabalgad Trek is located near Panvel and is 65 km from Mumbai. We drove till Panvel from where we headed to Thakurwadi, which is the base village for the trek. We grabbed an early bite from our homes itself so that we didn’t have to stop on the way. 

However, if you can’t do that, you can stop at McDonald’s in Panvel. It opens early in the morning and you can have a good breakfast there. 

More About Prabalgad Fort

Also known as Pradhangad or Muranjan, the Prabalgad Fort lies at a majestic height of 2,300 feet or 701 metres. This is a moderate trek that even beginners can finish easily. It was built by the Bahmani Sultanate and the fort witnessed the rise and fall of powerful kingdoms, such as the Marathas and the Mughals. 

Prabalgad Fort is settled on a top of a plateau and consists of a sister fort which is named Irshalgad Fort. Another fortress close to Prabalgad Fort, Kalavantin Durg, is one of the most difficult treks in Maharashtra. It shares the same base village as Prabalgad and is famously known as one of the world’s most dangerous treks due to its steep climb. 

As we trekked our way up, we took a ton of pictures and stopped at multiple spots to enjoy the views. Make sure you don’t rush through the trek; rather enjoy it at your own pace. There is a lot that this trek offers, which can only be experienced if you are present in the moment instead of focusing on reaching the top as soon as possible. 

Stay at Prabalgad Fort

After you trek, you can come back to Thakurwadi village to stay for the night. The locals are warm and welcoming. That being said, camps are one of the most popular ways people choose to stay.

You can pitch your tent on the open land near the fort and sleep under the starry skies. It is a one-of-a-kind experience that you wouldn’t want to miss. Inform the concerned people beforehand if you want to stay in a tent. Or you can carry your own tent and set up camp wherever you want. 

We chose to stay in a tent and I must say it was one of the most incredible experiences ever. At the end of the day, we were all tired from the trek and a calm night under the stars was exactly what we needed.  

Food at Prabalgad Fort

There are a number of snack shacks on the way to the fort. However, it would be wise to carry sufficient food and bottled water with you on the trek. 

There is a home restaurant in the village where you can place an order for the food to take for the tent stay. They serve authentic, lip-smacking Maharashtrian food. We packed it and took it with us on the trek.

We ate so much that walking further didn’t seem possible. But, eating such a delicious meal after the trek was truly a delight. 

Places to Visit Nearby

If you have more time on your hands and feel like you could take on a bigger challenge, head over to what is considered as one of the most dangerous treks in the world – Kalavantin Durg. 

Kalavantin Durg

According to a legend, it was built in honour of Queen Kalavantin. Once you reach the top, you will have stunning views but the climb itself has a notorious reputation. The terrain is rugged with narrow cut steps. The scariest part is that there is no support to these steps which makes the trek equally dangerous yet adrenaline-filled. 

The trek is also known as ‘Climb to Heaven’ as you get a heavenly, bird’s eye view of the surroundings when you reach the top.

You should avoid this trek if you have vertigo as it’ll prove to be extremely dangerous. You might get dizzy and getting down would be next to impossible in such a scenario. 

What to Carry?

If you do not pack the right things before the trek, you may not enjoy it as much as you could. Here are some things that you must carry:

• ID proof 
• Dry foods like snacks 
• Bottled Water (at least 2 bottles)
• First aid kit – keep sprays or gels for sprains and band-aids for any sorts of cuts and bruises. 
• Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun
• Rain gear if you choose to go during the monsoons
• Torch with extra cells if you plan to camp there
• Hydrating and energy drinks 
• Energy bars
• Napkins and towels
• A good rucksack to carry all your essentials 

Make sure you wear comfortable clothes and the right pair of trekking shoes. Do not even attempt to trek in your regular shoes and sandals. Carry a camera to capture your trek. A phone camera would also work but make sure you take a ton of pictures. This trek is worth looking back on. 

It was a one-day trip was for us. Though we wanted to do the Kalavantin Durg trek, we couldn’t due to the lack of time. Well, it is a journey for some other time. Thankfully, the Prabalgad Fort trek was an easy one so we weren’t too sore the next day. It was truly a day well spent. 

If you are trekking enthusiast and haven’t been to this fort yet, it’s high time you did!  

Recommended Story – MUMBAI TO MOUNT ABU – ROAD TRIP MEMOIR

The post Mumbai to Prabalgad Fort – One Day Trek appeared first on Roadtales.

1. The Car & Bike Show On NDTV

NDTV’s ‘The Car and Bike Show’ is the top Indian automobile TV show that has been on the air for the past 17 years. The show is hosted by Siddharth Vinayak Patankar, an editor at the NDTV television station. NDTV’s show was a trailblazer back in 2003 when there were no TV programmes in India on automobiles.

The host travels to different parts of the world, attends biennial automobile launches, test drives new cars, and gives “honest” reviews. NDTV’s The Car and Bike Show telecasts live coverage of auto exhibitions in India. The show is the only Indian automobile show to have covered the most prominent global brands like BMW, Ford, Mercedes Benz and Suzuki at Geneva, Frankfurt, Paris and New York.

Celebrity guests Virat Kohli, Priyanka Chopra, Shah Rukh Khan, John Abraham, Ranbir Kapoor, Michael Schumacher, Sachin Tendulkar, Jenson Button, Katy Perry, Lewis Hamilton and Jeremy Clarkson were featured in The Car and Bike Show, and the show received a great response from their fans.

2. Overdrive On CNBC

Overdrive is India’s largest auto media for cars and automobiles in print, web, television and events. The show features crew members testing cars and bikes and rating them to help buyers make easier purchasing decisions. Overdrive keeps its audience up to date with every development on everything related to the automobile industry. The show is telecasted on CNBC TV18, CNN IBN and CNBC Awaaz, hosted by Shereen Bhan, and presented by the OVERDRIVE editorial team.

Overdrive draws millions of viewers from across the country, especially those who are fascinated by grease, wheels, and motors to stick. The show starts where the host test drives and reviews the latest automobile in the market. In the show’s last segment, the host discusses the vehicle with experts from the automobile industry and elicits information about the automobile. Celebrity guests also share their personal experiences driving the vehicle.

Overdrive airs on CNBC-TV18 every Saturday (1 pm & 10 pm), Sunday (12:30 & 7:30 pm) and Tuesday (6:30 pm), and on CNN IBN on Saturdays at 3:30 pm.

3. Times Drive On Times Now

Times Drive is an auto show on Times Now that covers a wide spectrum of automobile-related topics. Times Drive was first aired in 2009 and has become one of the top Indian TV shows in India today. The motor show is hosted by Joel Pereira, Kailash Menon and Juhi Pand.

The host reviews the new entrants in bikes and cars in three segments. The opening session of the show is mostly about premium auto reviews, followed by the latest news from the industry. The second segment of Times Drive features auto upgrades and gives tips on buying used automobiles. The final segment of the show presents celebrity interviews where celebs share their personal experience with the car/bike.

Michael Schumacher, Ajay Devgn, Rahul Bajaj, David Coulthard, John Abraham and other prominent personalities were featured in the show. Major auto exhibitions and racing events, including the 2009 Singapore Grand Prix and Raid de Himalaya were also covered special episodes in the show.

4. Autocar India Show On ET Now

Autocar India Show on ET Now keeps its viewers abreast with all the happenings in the Indian auto market. The hosts present auto-related news and give comprehensive reviews of the performance and features of cars and bikes. The weekend auto show gets automobile savants glued to the tv screens with interesting segments on automobiles.

Autocar India Show is telecast on ET Now on Fridays (10:30 pm), Saturday (11:30 am) and Sundays (10 am and 2 pm). With honest domestic and international automotive scoops and reviews, the Autocar India Show has become one of India’s leading automobile TV shows. The exclusive auto reviews, auto comparisons, first looks of cars and bikes and first drive videos are most liked by the viewers.

5. Top Speed On Star News

Recently, in 2019, Star News launched a handbook at an auto show called ‘Top Speed’ for Indian auto enthusiasts. The show is a perfect weekend dose for all automobile-related news—cars, bike launches, and new paradigms in the auto industry, and is aired on Sundays at 5:30 pm. Expert opinions featured in the show help automobile lovers who are overwhelmed and confused by the ocean of subjective reviews on the Internet. Top Speed gives honest and first-hand reviews on cars and bikes.

The exclusive reporting on the auto market, vehicle reviews, deeper analysis, comprehensive reports, and test drives helps beginners, as well as experts in the industry, understand automobiles from the buyers’ perspective. Experienced and avid auto enthusiast and consulting editor of Auto Magazine, Rajiv Mitra, hosts the show. Rajiv has a decade of experience in test driving and reviewing automobiles, and brings amazing content to the screen, which is liked by Indian viewers.

The automobile industry in India is evolving with time. There is diversity in the taste of automobile lovers. Auto TV shows bring content to the screen and solve auto-related queries. If you are an auto aficionado, you must follow the above Indian auto TV shows to stay updated and informed.

The post Top 5 Auto TV Shows in India to Follow appeared first on Roadtales.

Hitting The Rishikesh Road

Rishikesh is good to visit at any time of the year. For adventure sports and outdoor activities, I suggest visiting the place between mid-September and April.

Rishikesh Route : New Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Haridwar → Rishikesh via NH 334

Rishikesh Distance: 235 km

There are two routes to Rishikesh from Delhi by road, NH334 and NH9. We took NH334, which in my opinion is the best route as it goes through Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Haridwar to Rishikesh with adequate time to spare.

Pit Stops On The Delhi-Rishikesh Route

Moti Bazar

We stopped at a Punjabi restaurant in Meerut to have breakfast. They make mouth-watering parathas. After having a satisfying breakfast and relaxing for a bit, we continued on our journey. In Haridwar, we visited Har ki Pauri, Gau Ghat, Ashti Parvath Ghat, and Subhash Ghat, as well as temples. We drove to Moti Bazaar and shopped for a while, and had street food for lunch.

Haridwar is one of the greatest pilgrimages in India. The city is livelier during Kumbh Mela when thousands of devotees visit the place. Chardharms in Uttarakhand—the temples of Gangadwara, Kushwart, Bilwa Tirtha and Neel Parvat—are also famous pilgrimage centres. People gather in great numbers for the Arati ceremony held every evening where priests light huge lanterns and chant religious hymns in chorus. We witnessed the Arati ceremony, watched the beautiful sunset, had tea at a small stall nearby, and set off on our one-hour journey to Rishikesh. 

The Rishikesh Experience

Rishikesh offers plenty of avenues for backpacking, spiritualism and adventure. There are numerous ashrams where sadhus teach yoga, spirituality, and meditation. Over the past few years, the place has been developed into an adventure hotspot with activities like bungee jumping, white water rafting, mountain biking and more. We were excited to explore this beautiful place. The following are the must-visit places in Rishikesh.

Lakshman Jhula

Located at a distance of 5 km from Rishikesh, Lakshman Jhula is a popular 70-feet-high hanging bridge over Ganga that connects two villages, Tapovan and Jonk. The mythology associated with the place is intriguing and will fill any Indian with pride. People believe that Lord Lakshman, the brother of Lord Rama in Ramayana, crossed Ganga on jute ropes where the bridge is built. The bridge was constructed in 1929 to mark the epic event. Today, the bridge serves as an adjoining bridge connecting religious shrines Kedarnath and Badrinath.

Thousands of people visit Lakshman Jhula each year to savour the richness of the grand temples and local markets. We toured Lakshman Temple, Terah Manzil temple, Ram Jhula near Lakshman Jhula and more.

Kaudiyala

Located at a distance of 22 km from Rishikesh, Kaudiyala is an adventure paradise. Surrounded by a dense forest, Kaudiyala is the heart of nature. Rock jumping to river rafting, mountaineering, camping and other exhilarating activities await adventurers. You need to book your tour package in advance to have the most fun with these activities. Camping amid the flora and fauna, bonfire in chilly nights, playing games and eating barbecued food is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visiting Time of Rishikesh: 8 am to 6 pm (daily), night bookings are also available.

We spent a night at Kaudiyala, went river rafting in the afternoon, hiked a mountain during noon, and caught the sunset and at night, set a bonfire at camp.

Flying Fox

Flying Fox is the most thrilling activity to do in Rishikesh. In this, you zipline above the majestic Himalayas and the lively Ganges. I was stunned by the enthralling views of mountains and the river from the top. It was truly an exhilarating experience. Do not leave Rishikesh without trying Flying Fox!

Triveni Ghat

Situated on the banks of Ganga, Triveni Ghat is the biggest ghat in Rishikesh and has significance in Hindu mythology. The place organizes Maha Aarti, a religious ceremony where every evening devotees gather to offer prayers and milk to the Gods and feed the fishes in the river. The Ghat is open for religious activities from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm every day.

Bungee Jumping

Rishikesh hosts a plethora of fun and adventurous activities, and bungee jumping is the top exciting activity. If you have nerves of steel and yearn for the thrill of hanging in the air and swirling, then you should try bungee jumping at Rishikesh. I didn’t do this activity as I have vertigo. But I watched people scream, hovering above the ground, having fun in the air and falling in the water. Not only mountain cliffs, but bungee jumping in Rishikesh is also carried from helicopters and hot air balloons. Bungee jumping is open throughout the year except in the rainy season.

Neelkantha Mahadeva Temple

There are plenty of famous temples in Rishikesh. We visited the Neelkantha Mahadeva temple. The route to the temple is interesting with dense forests and rushing breeze. It relieved our travel stress and refreshed us. The temple is open on all days of the week from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm. Devotees offer the water from Ganga to this temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Trek To Jadh Ganga

If you are interested in valley trek, then you should tread along Jadh Ganga. You will be accompanied by nature, gushing streams, pristine glaciers, abundant flora and dramatic landscapes. Trek to Jadh Ganga is said to be one of the most difficult treks in Uttarakhand. Go on this adventure only if you are absolutely sure.

Bharat Mandir in Rishikesh

Bharat Mandir is a shrine founded by Adiguru Shankaracharya in the 12th century. The speciality of this shrine is that it houses a statue of Lord Vishnu carved from a single piece of saligram (fossilized shell). The architecture and interiors of the temple are also very interesting.

Byasi

Located 30 km from Rishikesh, Byasi is a small village on the banks of Ganga. The village is famous for water sports like rafting, as the waters there are calm and predictable. The white sands, steady water and water sports keep you entertained and make it ideal for camping.

Raghunath temple, Swami Dayananda Ashram, The Beatles Ashram, Neer Garh waterfalls, Swarg Ashram, Osho Ganga Ashram, and Rishi Kund are the places worth visiting on your trip to Rishikesh.

There are plenty of eateries on the Delhi-to-Rishikesh route. You can relish on mouth-watering sweets made of pure ghee (clarified butter) besan ki barfi, besan ke laddu and nariyal barfi are a must-try in Rishikesh.

A road trip from Delhi to Rishikesh is an exciting and spiritual escapade meant for adventurers, travellers and families alike. Once you have been to this place, you will get to know why Rishikesh is a sanctimonious place and attracts global tourists.

The post A Road Trip With Family From Delhi To Rishikesh appeared first on Roadtales.

Why Mount Abu?

When we think of Rajasthan, we picture golden sand dunes and searing temperatures, but Mount Abu will put that thought to rest! It is the only hill station located in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, nestled in the Aravalli mountain at an elevation of 1,220 m above sea level amid a 289-km2 wildlife sanctuary. Mount Abu is known for its Hindu and Jain temples, and shrines dating back to 400 to 1,000 years. My family wanted to visit these temples, so we planned a road trip to Mount Abu.

Mount Abu Route:

There is only one route from Mumbai to Mount Abu, and it is filled with exciting pit stops and activities.

Mumbai → Daman → Surat → Vadodara → Ahmedabad → Mount Abu via NH48

Time & Distance of Mount Abu:

The Mumbai to Mount Abu road via NH48 is 759 km long, and the journey will take 13 hours and 35 minutes. We slithered on winding roads across hills and shorelines, which was a beautiful experience.

Pit Stops Along Mumbai To Mount Abu (Via NH48)

Devka Beach

The Mumbai to Mount Abu, NH48 highway is filled with beaches, forests, hills and plateaus. From historic places to beaches, there are abundant places to visit on the way to Mount Abu from Mumbai.

Devka Beach: Situated 190 km from Mumbai, Devka beach in Daman is a must-visit. The serene waters and virgin shorelines calm your travel stress and fill your heart. We took a short lunch break at this beach and enjoyed the Portuguese seafood delicacies at a small dhaba by the sea. We collected shells from the sea, drenched our feet in sand and water, and got back to our car to continue our journey.

Mirasol Lake: Along the Devka beach road lies a man-made lake called Mirasol. It is a perfect place to visit if you are travelling with kids. It offers boat and toy-train rides. This man-made wonder is dotted with beautiful fountains, alluring nature, and food stalls serving mouth-watering food delicacies. We spent some time at the Mirasol lake garden. The garden made our travel sickness vanish. You need an entrance ticket to enter the garden.

Dominican Monastery: Once a Catholic Church, the ruins of Dominican Monastery is now a piece of Daman’s history from its heyday.

Dahanu Mahalaxmi Temple: My family has always been fascinated by temples. When we heard there is a Goddess Laxmi temple on the Mumbai to Surat highway, we dropped by and spent 20 minutes to take a tour and offer prayers.

Bharuch: Formerly known as Broach, Bharuch is a city on the banks of river Narmada in Gujarat. The place used to serve as a major trade port for Arabia, Persia and Africa. We stopped to glance at this ancient inhabited city and ate the popular salted peanuts sold by the roadside.

Vadodara: Vadodara is a city of artisans whose work can be relished at the Makarpura palace, Nazarbaug palace, Laxmi Vilas, and Kirti Mandir. If you have time, you must go for some textile and handicraft shopping at the local shops in Vadodara. We didn’t get time to tour this beautiful city, but I highly recommend you to explore this place for its ancient glory.

Places To Eat At On Your Mumbai-Mount Abu Road Trip Via NH48:

Jagjit Veera’s Dhaba in Daman 

There are umpteen restaurants and eateries along the Mumbai–Mount-Abu road that serve scrumptious food. You must try Italian and Asian cuisines at the Spice Galleon of the Gold Beach Resort in Daman. Jagjit Veera’s Dhaba in Daman serves mouth-watering Punjabi cuisines. Try dal makhani and kheer at Nirmal Dhaba in Vadodara. There are many other dhabas on the way where you can not only kill your hunger pangs but also satisfy your palate.

We got tired during the journey, so we stayed the night at a relative’s and regained our energies the next morning. There is no dearth of accommodation in Mount Abu; hotels are available throughout the year at affordable rates, safety and ambience.

The Day Begins…

Nakki Lake

We had a quick breakfast and started our journey to explore the hill station. Summers are the best time to visit this place. If you visit it during the winters, though, you can enjoy the Winter Festival celebration and New Year, which are celebrated grandly at Mount Abu.

Dilwara Jain Temples: These are a complex of Jain temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and carved and built from marbles in the Nagara style of architecture. There are small temples within the complex built by Vastupal Tejpal between the 11th and 13th centuries.

Museum & Art Gallery: Preserving the archaeological artefacts of the region, the Government Museum in Mount Abu is an intriguing place. With its display of cultural activities from the prehistoric era, including paintings, sculptures, unique brass artefacts, Jain bronze carvings and tribal works, the museum attracts people of all age groups. The museum and art gallery is open from 10.00 A.M. to 4.30 P.M everyday and closed on Fridays and public holidays.

Nakki Lake: Surrounded by gardens, mountains, and rock formations, the Nakki Lake lies in between the lush Aravali hills at a height of 1,200 km above sea level. You can sail on this river from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm on all days. The rock formations, Toad Rock, Camel Rock, Nandi Rock and Nun Rock near Nakki Lake make spectacular backdrops for clicking Instagram-worthy images.

Guru Shikhar Peak: Towering at a height of 1,772 m above sea level, this peak offers breathtaking views of the hill station. The peak is adorned with Guru Dattatrey temple, Mira Temple, Chamundi Temple, and Shiva Temple near the peak. Watch the sunset and click amazing pictures, or just stare at the city from this peak.

Parks: Mount Abu is home to beautiful gardens and parks such as Ashok Vatika, Peace Park, Gandhi Park, Municipal Park, Shaitan Singh Park, and Terrace Garden. It also has great nature trails, such as Craig’s Walk, Bailey’s Walk, Tiger Trail, Honeymoon Point, Rishikesh Trail, Bridal Path. If you love animals and are keen to explore the wildlife of Mount Abu, you must visit Trevor’s Tank, a water reservoir cum animal sanctuary. You will spot a lot of crocodiles at the Crocodiles Park.

Adhar Devi Temple: The temple is carved from a rock and features exquisite sculptures and idols. During Navratri, the temple comes alive with the sound of people offering prayers. You can get amazing views of Mount Abu from this temple.

Gaumukh Temple, Rishikesh Temple, Achaleshwar Mahadev and Shri Raghunathji Temple are the other popular temples in Mount Abu.

Tips For A Seamless Mumbai–Mount Abu Road Trip

• The NH48 route from Mumbai to Mount Abu is a ride through hills and shoreline. At some points, the ride becomes too windy. Do not accelerate your vehicle, especially when you enter Mount Abu.
• You can easily follow the route signs on the highway. However, for safety, check the route on your Google maps. If the map confuses you, don’t hesitate to talk to the locals for guidance.
• There are a decent number of petrol bunks and ATMs along the NH48 route. Use them often.
• Carry a stepney, tool kit with a car jack, pliers and wrenches for emergencies.

It takes two days to explore Mount Abu. The local shops will take care of all your needs and more. There are a variety of sightseeing options. But there aren’t many adventure spots. Mount Abu is a place for couples, families and friends who love to experience nature, divinity, and serenity.

The post Mumbai To Mount Abu – Road Trip Memoir appeared first on Roadtales.

Located at just 200 kilometres from Mumbai, Sula Vineyards was the perfect weekend destination for us. It is ladled with lush green fields on the way, a scenic location and, of course, a lot of wine. 

Why Sula Vineyards?

Sula Vineyard falls in the Nashik district also known as the ‘Wine Capital of India’. Sula Vineyard, a home-grown winery was set up in the year 2000. It is a great getaway for all wine enthusiasts and aficionados. 

We drove to Sula Vineyards and went via the Trimbakeshwar route, which cuts well before Nashik. I must say, it was a really rejuvenating ride. The route offers great scenic views as it goes via small hills and a water dam which will make you stop for some gorgeous photos.

Day 1

It took us about 4 hours to reach Nashik, along with the breakfast halt and tea breaks. We took our time to drive so that we could enjoy the scenic route. However, we took one stop on the way. 

• Trimbakeshwar Temple

We knew we had to stop at Trimbakeshwar Temple before heading to Sula Vineyards. Trimbakeshwar is considered as one of the most sacred towns in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is the centre of twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. 

It is built on the base of the Brahmagiri hills from where river Godavari originates. It is also believed that Trimbakeshwar is the birthplace of Lord Ganesha.  

This holy temple was built by Shri Peshwa Nanasaheb between 1755 to 1786 AD. It is made from pure basalt, which is why it is also known as the black stone temple. 

• Sula Vineyard 

The route to Sula was a tricky one and we had to ask for directions a few times before we finally made it to Sula Vineyard. It was exciting to see the grapevines along the way. The view was spectacular. The lush green hills surrounding the property added to the charm.

Treehouse Stay

The stay options at Sula included rooms in the resort or treehouse. We chose the treehouse because there was no better way to enjoy nature than stay in one. The room was equipped with everything one would need. It overlooked the beautiful vineyards.  

We settled in and took in the ambience of the place. Once we freshened up, we were ready to check out the place.

Sula Tour 

So, our first step was to take the tour of the place. These tours happen every hour so we didn’t have to wait too long. They have two options for their customers – a Tour Ticket or a Tour plus Tasting ticket. The Tour Ticket just comprises of a tour to the tank halls and a tour of Sula’s History and its inception. While on the Tour plus Tasting ticket, you will get a wine sampler tasting as well. We booked the Tour plus Tasting tickets and were very excited to start.

Our guide escorted us through the vineyards, where he told us Sula Vineyard’s history. He also explained to us the different types of grapes that would be used to make their wines. We came to know that the bold and big red grapes are used to make the flavoursome red wines, while the light green ones are used in making the delicate white wines. 

The guide then took us through the Winery, then the Barrel room and finally to the Tasting room. The tour included tasting four types of wine, set on a large table overlooking a lake. 

Regrettably, there was no grape stomping event during our visit. We learnt that the season for stomping is usually during March. Although, February is a great time to visit as Sula Vineyard organizes its annual Sula Fest. 

After a fantastic tour and a newly learnt knowledge about wines, we headed to their rooftop restaurant and immediately fell in love with the view which gives a lovely gaze over the vineyards. 

Food at Sula

We ordered a cheese platter, garlic bread, and chicken wings along with wine. The food was great but the lovely wine and the view made our time even better. Slowly we noticed the slanting rays of the sun announcing the end of a fantastic day at Sula Vineyards.

There are two restaurants on the property – ‘Little Italy’, which serves vegetarian Italian cuisine, and the other one is ‘Soma’, which serves Indian food. Both restaurants have an excellent wine menu to go along with their dishes.  

Needless to say, we slept with a huge smile on our faces. 

Day 2

The next morning, we woke up to a beautiful sunrise. After a quick breakfast, we checked out of the room. We felt like one night’s stay wasn’t enough so we already made plans to visit again and stay longer. 

But for now, we were set to see the sights that Nashik had to offer us. 

• Panchvati 

Apart from Sula Vineyard, a trip to Nashik is incomplete if you don’t visit Panchvati. It took us about 30 mins from Sula Vineyard to reach Panchvati.  

It is a holy land for all the believers of Ramayana. Lord Rama spent a few years of his 14-year old exile in Panchvati. This place is rich in mythology and history. It is filled with sites that are a must-visit on every pilgrim’s list. These sites include Sita Gufa, Kalaram Temple and KapaleshwarTemple.

Panchvati is known for its five huge banyan trees, which are called ‘vat vriksha’ in Marathi. When translated, it is known as the land of 5 banyan trees or ‘Panchvati’. 

Pilgrims also come to this place for Kumbh Mela that takes place on the river banks of Godavari. People from all over the world come for this occasion. 

• Artillery Museum

After the visit to a mythologically significant place, we headed over to the Artillery Museum. This place used to be a military centre for British-Indian forces during World War II. 

They turned it into a museum and the other part of it is used as a training ground for the Indian soldiers. You can find a ton of weapons and aircrafts used by the Indian army over the decades. 

You get a glorious glimpse of the Indian military’s past. 

• Pandavleni Caves

Next on our list was Pandavleni Caves at Trirashmi Hills. It was barely 20 mins from the museum. To reach the caves, you need to trek a well-built path for about 20 minutes. 

These caves are 24 Hinayana Buddhism caves, which were carved out somewhere in the 2nd or 3rd Century. You can find multiple monasteries, shrines, carvings, and pillars inside the main structures. The architecture and the inscriptions in the caves are very beautiful and well preserved to date. 

There are beautiful chambers, water structures and stone ladders built inside the cave. The Dada Saheb Phalke Smarak lies at the foot of the Pandavleni caves and showcases the work of Dadasaheb Phalke. There are steps going to the top which we climbed and enjoyed a really breath-taking view. The location of the caves is a prominent holy Buddhist site. This makes the Pandavleni Caves a well-known tourist site that is visited by tourists in large numbers all year round.

• Vihigaon Falls

As soon as we were done with Pandavleni Caves, we decided to head back to Mumbai. However, a friend suggested we visit the Vihigaon Falls that would be on the way. And who says no to waterfalls!

These falls are located 59 kilometres from Nashik, near Igatpuri. It is one of the best natural waterfalls and it cascades into a pool from a height of 120 feet. It is a popular getaway for those coming from Mumbai and Nashik. It is a beautiful place and we could see why it was a popular picnic spot. 

If you are interested in rappelling, this is a perfect place to do it in the monsoon. 

We stayed for a while to enjoy the waterfall and soon started our journey back to Mumbai. The trip was epic in many ways. We covered some historical and mythological places, one of India’s first wineries, some caves, and a waterfall. We were happy to cover so much ground in 2 days. 

Suffice to say, our weekend trip to Nashik was beyond fun and memorable. 

The post Mumbai to Sula Vineyard – Let’s Wine, Not Whine appeared first on Roadtales.

Chennai to Pondicherry By Road…

Taking the East Coast Road or State Highway 49 from Chennai to Pondicherry, you can explore everything including popular pit stops while being en route. Total distance to be covered is approximately 1750km which can take about 3.5 hours. Start your trip early in the morning so that you can catch the sunrise, experience the cold sea breeze while driving and reach Pondicherry by noon.

The two-lane East Coast Road is never congested, allowing vehicles to drive freely and reach Pondicherry in just 3.5 hours.

Pit Stops Along ECR Road

As you are making your way from Chennai to Pondicherry via the ECR route, you will encounter some amazing places. We suggest making pit stops at the following landmarks.

Kovalam-Beach

Kovalam Beach:

Located in the fishing village of Covelong with three adjacent crescent beaches, Kovalam beach has been attracting tourists worldwide since the 1930s. The rocky promontory on the beach calms the turbulent waters, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities without having to fear the currents. The pristine sands and picturesque natural views make this beach ideal for strolling around or just sitting and gazing at the beauty of the place. People come to this beach for the spa including herbal body toning massages.

Portuguese Catholic Church:

One must stop by this beautiful Portuguese Catholic Church, which dates back to the 18th century. The impressive grotto is dedicated to ‘Our Lady of Mount Carmel’ and a bell tower soaring from a height of 16 meters.

Alamparai Fort:

Ruins of the Alamparai Fort are located at a distance of 100 km from Chennai along the ECR. The fort was built in the 17th century during the Mughal regime and is totally worth visiting.  Built with bricks and limestone over an area of 15 acres overlooking the Bay of Bengal, the architecture of the fort is quite impressive. The fort is surrounded by tall walls and red bricks. From the top of the fort, you can capture Instagram-worthy pictures of virgin beaches and backwaters.

Mamallapuram:

Also known as Mahabalipuram, Mamallapuram is a coastal town nestled between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake. The UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 8th century and is famous for its temples and awe-inspiring monuments built during the Pallava dynasty. It is a great place to have authentic seafood. It has many good hotels for budgets of all sizes, making it an amazing place to stay the night.

Marvel At The Art Works At Cholamandal Artists’ Village

Explore the indigenous, traditional, and contemporary works on terracotta, wood, paint, ceramic, textile, paper and glass by local artisans. Art galleries, open-air theatre, sculptures, museums, handicrafts, dance performances, sand and clay art and photography are some of the exciting things to experience at the Cholamandal Artists’ Village.

Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM

Entry Fee: Rs 20 for adults and Rs 5 for kids

Address: Murungapakkam, (Near Govt. Catering College) Puducherry 605004

Revive South Indian Culture At Dakshinachitra Museum

The Dakshinachitra Museum is a heritage cross-cultural museum preserving and showcasing South Indian culture through art, architecture, lifestyles, crafts, and performing arts. The museum promotes cultural aspects of the South Indian States including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Take a tour of the ancient cultures by visiting the traditional homes at the museum, shop traditional jewellery, crafts and artworks, and have a closer look at the live demonstration of the artisan’s craftsmanship. Various programs and activities are held at the museum for different age groups, including arts and crafts, board games, spin tops, break pots, puppet shows and more.

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm (the museum is closed on Tuesdays and open on all national holidays except on Diwali day)

Entry Fee: Rs 100 for adults, Rs 20 for kids (5-12 yrs), Rs 30 for students (13-18 yrs), and Rs 50 for teachers. In regard to foreign tourists, Rs 200 for adults and Rs 70 for students.

Unwind At The Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach, as the name suggests, is the most beautiful beach in Chunnambar, close to Pondicherry town. Also known as Plage Paradiso, the beach is adorned with golden sands and surrounded by stunning landscapes. The beach is less crowded and has a constant flow of pleasant, cool breeze.

You need to take a ferry from the boathouse to the beach that will take around 20-30 minutes; enjoying the green backwaters surrounded by bushy mangrove forests, watching bird’s flock and clicking beautiful pictures is a fun and thrilling experience but don’t go deep in the water as the currents can get high. Watching the sun getting down on the western coast, drinking coconut water, with good company by your side is all you need in life. 

Time Required: 1-2 hrs

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fee: Rs 150, Chairs: Rs 75 per hr

Relish The Heart Of French Café’s

Pondicherry is not only famous for its French architecture and clean beaches but also its French cafés; it is called a “foodie’s paradise” as it serves contemporary gourmet cuisines from around the world. The following are the best cafés in Pondicherry that I personally loved and recommend to my readers.

La Maison Rose

Depicting its grand French architecture, La Maison Rose is a boutique restaurant where you can savour the French cuisine amid nature as you are seated under the shade of mango trees.

Address: 8 Rue Romain Rolland Street, White Town

Timings: 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM

Must-Try: Lamb Chops

Le Café

Dining at the seafront café is everyone’s dream, and you can fulfil this dream at Le Café by the beach facing the Bay of Bengal in White Town. Taking a bite of luscious food and watching the sunset on the horizon is therapeutic. The only downside to this place is the crowd because it is the only seafront café in Pondicherry. You can avoid the crowd by visiting the cafe late into the night.

Address: No. 40, Beach Rd, White Town

Timings: Open 24 hours

Must-Try: Lasagna

Rendezvous Cafe

If you are in Pondicherry with your friends and are looking for a restaurant that offers the perfect ambience for fun over food, you should go to Rendezvous Cafe. From exotic seafood sizzlers to freshly brewed coffees, you and your buddies can quench your insatiable appetite either in the lounge or the garden terrace.

Address: 30, Rue Suffren Street, Puducherry

Timings: 12 PM – 3:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM, closed on Tuesdays

Must-Try: Apple pie, chocolate mousse, tiramisu, ratatouille and bruschettas

Stroll At The Promenade Beach

On your stroll through the 1.2-km-long stretch of the Promenade Beach, you will come across historic landmarks including the statue of Joan of Arc, the Heritage town hall, a statue of Mahatma Gandhi, Dupleix statue, an ancient lighthouse, and more. This place is perfect for a short break and will alleviate your travel sickness if any.

Ousteri Wetland & National Park

At a distance of 10 km from Pondicherry along the Pondicherry-Villupuram road lies the Ousteri Wetland and National Park sprawling across 3.9 km sq. The place houses a variety of fishes and birds and is one of the most remarkable ecological places in entire South India. Migratory birds are attracted to the unique species of trees and herbs at this park, making it photography friendly to click amazing shots of aquatic and aviary at the park.

Wander At The Botanical Garden

You can find French influence everywhere in Pondicherry, be it architecture or food. The Botanical Garden in Pondicherry especially reflects “Frenchness.” In 1931, French botanist and horticulturist George S Perrottet turned the place into a botanical garden. The typical French-styled garden flourished with trees, exotic plants, herbs, fountains and gravel-lined paths. On weekends, during the evenings, the garden is lit with the energy and laughter of people in shows with musical fountains.

Pay A Visit To The French War Memorial

The French War Memorial is located on Goubert Avenue and was built in 1971 to pay homage to the French soldiers lost during the First World War. This place is a must-visit on your trip to Pondicherry, to learn the struggle of soldiers at war and gander at the pleasant experience the place offers. To make the most of this place, visit the French War Memorial on Bastille Day (July 14th) where the memorial is illuminated, and a commemoration ceremony is held to honour the sacrifice of the soldiers.

Ponder At The Pondicherry Museum

Pondicherry Museum is located in Bharathi Park and showcases sculptures and archaeological findings from the ancient port of Arikamedu Roman settlement. The museum also houses unique statues and bronze sculptures belonging to the Chola and Pallava dynasties. You can gain profound knowledge of the colonial history of Pondicherry and its French influence. Handicrafts are also displayed at the museum exhibiting the craftsmanship of the ancient people, which are very intriguing.

Tour The City Of Dawn – Auroville

Auroville is an experimental township and a famous tourist spot in Pondicherry. It was the idea of the spiritual collaborator, Sri Aurobindo, to house people of all kinds without discrimination and bind them together through yoga and peace. The main attraction at the centre of Auroville is a huge golden globe-like structure, Matrimandir, which is a meditation centre. An interesting fact is that, for building this township, soils from 124 countries were brought in and put in an urn and mixed. You can find the urn in the amphitheatre in Matrimandir Gardens.

Entry: Free

Location: Viluppuram District, Pondicherry, India.

Must-Know Facts Before Visiting Pondicherry

Best Time To Visit:

Winter is a great time to visit Pondicherry, i.e., between December to March, as the temperature drops to 17°C, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and adventure activities. October to November is also a good time to visit Pondicherry if you don’t mind the rains (the place receives northeast monsoons during this time).

Culture Of Pondicherry:

Pondicherry has a diverse and vibrant culture with a strong French influence.

Languages Of Pondicherry:

The original languages of Pondicherry are French and English. With the influx of tourism, the locals also speak Tamil and Telugu. English is spoken by the majority of the people in Pondicherry, so you will not find it difficult to express if you don’t speak the native languages.

People of Pondicherry:

Pondicherry is a diverse place where communities from Odisha, Gujarat, and West Bengal live in harmony. The majority of the population is Tamilians and a minority are French. You will encounter a cosmopolitan ambience where contrasting cultures and traditions blend. People in Pondicherry are cordial and welcoming.

Other Activities:

Scuba diving, cycling, hiking, electric bike tours, boating, surfing, tree climbing trails are some of the fun and adventurous activities you can do in Pondicherry.

Things To Carry:

What to pack on your road trip to Pondicherry along the ECR depends on when you are travelling. During summers, the sun is harsh. You need sunscreen, an umbrella, shades, and a hat all the time because the weather is unpredictable. Pack lightly, wear anything you are comfortable in and pack swimsuits if you are planning for scuba diving or any other water activities.

A road trip to Pondicherry from the ECR is an experience that will be etched in your memory forever. There is no shortage of tourist spots; even along the ECR, you can indulge in spell-binding places that can be enjoyed with friends and family.

The post Chennai to Pondicherry along the East Coast Road (ECR)  appeared first on Roadtales.