Thimphu, Bhutan

Thimpu - Punakha - Paro - Tiger’s Nest

Imagine an untouched beauty. She wouldn't know how to respond to a touch - at best her response will be ambivalent. Bhutan is like that - a country that vehemently protects its proud & rich tradition although it heavily depends on tourism and a bunch of countries for funds and technology. We entered the royal country of Bhutan through Jaigaon on a rainy day. Next morning was spent in the immigration office to receive permit before we were told the road to Thimphu is blocked due to landslides.

View of Thimphu from Buddha Point

Sigri

Trip: Delhi - Nainital - Sigri - Delhi

• Go for the village walk in the evening. A golden sunset and glimpse of village life in the hills will be worth the exertion. You can even restock at the village shop.
• A trek to the highest point is the best way to spend the afternoon. Both the view and the effort to reach the high point is invigorating.
• Remember there is no cell signal in here. Visit Nainital in the evening. It is hardly an hour away and the buzzing marketplace is a good balancing act against the seclusion of Sigri.

Imagine a cozy resort nestled in an islotaed heaven deep in the Himalayas, inhabited with simple hillfolks, few hutments and no cell signal. What can you do, disconnected from the city? How about if you are with a bunch of close friends, enough booze and an entire resort staff at your command, not to forget a stunning view of the ice-capped Himalayas and pleasant weather. You would definitely want to go there.

Golden Sunset, Sigri

Mandrem Beach, Goa

Trip: Delhi - Goa - Delhi

• A scooty ride to Mandrem is half the fun. The long and shallow beach is perfect for kids so if you are with them, its a perfect getaway and they will love it. 
• Visit Baba Au Rhum on the way. It is authentic french restaurant and has some pastry delicacies famous around Goa.

Mandrem was nothing like a beach I had seen before. Calm and composed, shallow and yet deep, it was inviting to both kids and adults alike. The seclusion, distance from main Goa and the sheer size of Mandrem made us fall in love with it. The shacks were as usual very useful and helpful, at a price. Old songs of 90s were playing. The warm December breeze under the afternoon sunshine made the booze even more effective. We were entranced.

Shacks, Mandrem