Let’s admit it—trips to the Maldives can be expensive. However, we managed a budget trip and I’m here to share the details. Despite booking flights and hotels just three days before departure, our entire trip costed around INR 52,000 (approximately USD 615) per person. Curious how we did it? Keep reading for all the tips and tricks from our 3-night, 4-day budget trip to the Maldives.

I enjoy planning our trips because it allows for more freedom of choice. After getting suggestions from my friend, Soham, I started planning the trip. Given that Premanku was still jet-lagged, we wanted a relaxing trip. Detailed tips are provided in the “Points to Note” section at the end of this post.

Day 1: We drove from Pune to Mumbai, arriving around 3:30 am. Our flight was at 9:30 am, giving us six hours to rest at the Mumbai International Airport Lounge. The flight to Male took about 2 hours and 45 minutes. All airport processes, from check-in to security and immigration, were smooth. We filled out the IMUGA forms 24 hours before departure. We landed in Male around 11:45 am local time and completed immigration and luggage collection within 30 minutes. 

Outside the main airport area, numerous hotel, resort, and trip organizer counters are visible. We were directed to contact counter C-13. As it was Friday, the next shared speed ferry boat from the airport to Maafushi (the island in Maldives we were staying in) was at 3 pm, which we had booked through the hotel a day earlier. We spent the next two hours having lunch at the airport and taking photos. The ferry ride to Maafushi took about 40-45 minutes, and our luggage was handled by the hotel staff. Kaani Grand Seaview Hotel welcomed us with a hot towel and cold beverage. In Maafushi, not all beaches are accessible to tourists, and bikinis are only allowed at Bikini Beach, besides which our hotel was located. We booked a Deluxe Double Room with a Balcony and Sea View but were upgraded to the only King Suite on the island, featuring a private jacuzzi. We spent the rest of the day enjoying the sunset, booking activities for the next day, relaxing on the beach, and dining at Hiyala Cafe.

Day 4: Our day started at 6 am with a tour around the 1.2 km long island, spotting schools, mosques, a jail, and a hospital. We left Maafushi by shared speed ferry boat at 9:30 am, arriving at Male Airport. In 30 minutes, we completed check-in, security, and immigration. Our flight departed Maldives at 12:50 pm, and we landed in Mumbai around 4:05 pm IST. Due to turbulence, we were diverted to Mopa Airport, Goa, but couldn’t de-board as it was an international flight. Finally, we reached Mumbai past 9 pm and arrived home in Pune by 2 am.

Points to Note:

1. Documents Needed: Valid passport and filled IMUGA form (before leaving India and the Maldives). URL for IMUGA Form: https://travel.immigration.gov.mv/

We also had travel insurance from Acko for INR 477 for both of us. Although we carried flight tickets and hotel booking details, no one asked for them.

2. Currency: USD is widely accepted, so we exchanged INR to USD in India at a rate of 84.65.

3. Timing: We planned our trip for the second week of May, benefiting from off-season rates for flights, hotels, and activities, and returning before the monsoon season. The temperature was around 30°C.

4. Island Choice: Opting for a public island over a private one saved us a lot of money. Maafushi, part of Kaafu Atoll, is one of the cheapest islands in the Maldives.

5. Flights: We booked round-trip flights from Mumbai to Male on Vistara at a discounted rate of INR 31,558 from flightnetwork.com. Vistara offers wireless in-flight entertainment, food, beverages, blankets, and pillows.

6. Hotel: We booked Deluxe Double Room with Balcony and Sea View of Kaani Grand Seaview Hotel on Agoda.com for INR 23,723 for 3 nights and 4 days, including breakfast. We were upgraded to a King Suite for free.

7. Negotiation: When booking activities in person, ask for discounts.

8. Ferry: The shared speed ferry boat from Male to Maafushi cost USD 25 per person each way. It can be booked through the hotel, trip organizers or apps like Klook or Viator. A public ferry service is cheaper at USD 3 per person each way but takes 1.5 hours.

9. Tourist Tax: Tourists must pay USD 6 per person per day in the Maldives as Green Tax.

10. Food Costs: We spent around INR 9,546 on food. Hiyala Cafe is recommended for affordable local cuisine. There are also many Indian and Bengali restaurants on the island. The food at Kaani Grand Seaview Hotel was also good.

11. Activities: We booked a private island day pass (Adaaran Club Rannalhi Resort) for USD 100 per person and the Shipwreck Activity for USD 60 per person from iCom Tours. We received a USD 5 discount per person on the second booking.

12. Souvenirs: We bought souvenirs from local Bangladeshi shops at discounted prices.

13. Total Expense: The total expense for two was INR 103,903, which amounts to INR 51,951 per person.

14. Whenever I travel abroad, I try to download and save the google map of the place offline.

15. I download the local language of the place in Google Translator.

The preparation

Our whirlwind trip to Malaysia was a spontaneous decision, planned meticulously within just three weeks. One of the perks that made our preparation stress-free was Malaysia’s newly acquired visa-free status for Indians. The planning process involved watching a few travel videos, reading other travel stories, and eventually booking our flights and accommodations. To enhance our experience, we utilised the Klook and Viator applications to book various activities. For all the important details, please check out the section below named, Points to Remember. If you find anything useful, please like, share and comment on the blog.

Itinerary

Day 0 – We kicked off our journey from Pune around 4 PM, heading to Mumbai International Airport for an 11 PM flight with Batik (Malindo) Air straight to Kuala Lumpur, sans any layovers. Opting for an OLA cab, we were a bit concerned about its condition, but fortunately, we reached the airport 2hours prior to the departure. At the airport, we exchanged currency and converted an INR 24500 to 1000 Malaysian Ringgit(MYR). However, we soon realised it was a mistake as airport exchanges come with high conversion charges as compared to doing it in local places in Pune. Moving on, the security check and immigration processes were smooth, with manageable queues. Within 30-45 minutes, we completed security and immigration, proceeding to the gates.

Day 1 – Arriving in Malaysia early in the morning, post breakfast at the airport, the first thing on our agenda was to secure a ride from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to our hotel, IBIS, in Kuala Lumpur City Center. Thanks to the Grab app, we covered the 70-kilometer distance for about Rs. 1300 (~72MYR), tolls included. Surprisingly reasonable, this set the tone for our perception of Malaysia as an affordable destination compared to our initial assumption that it might definitely be more expensive compared to India.

As we approached the city centre in our Grab ride, the breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur’s iconic landmarks—Petronas Towers, Merdeka building, and KL Tower—welcomed us. We arrived earlier than the regular check in time(i.e. 3 PM), we decided to explore the surroundings after depositing our luggage at IBIS. Suria KLCC mall and KLCC park, located nearby, piqued our interest. It was pretty hot and sunny – so we ventured into the mall and the park, which was just below the Petronas Towers.

Our stroll through the luxury mall included some window shopping before indulging in Chinese and Malaysian cuisines at the food court. Don’t miss the National Dish, Nasi Lemak. Following our mall visit, we headed back to IBIS for check-in. Located just 750 meters from Suria KLCC, IBIS, provided us with a comfortable stay on the 12th floor, offering a splendid view of the city.

The next item on our itinerary was a visit to the Petronas Twin Towers. We booked tickets using Viator application and it costed us around INR 6322 for 2 persons that included visit to Sky Bridge (41st floor), observatory deck at 86th Floor and 82nd floor. Our tickets were delivered at the hotel lobby a day prior to the visit. Despite our high expectations, the experience was somewhat underwhelming. The windows on the mid and top floors were not as clear as we had hoped. Having previously visited the Burj Khalifa deck in Dubai, we found the Petronas Towers experience fell short. Nevertheless, the fountain show in the evening from the top of Petronas Towers is a sight to remember. We provided more details about it at the Point to Remember section.

After our tower visit, we went down to Suria KLCC mall for dinner before a relaxing walk back to IBIS, bringing an end to our first day with a restful night’s sleep.

Day 2 – Our second day in Malaysia brought new experiences as we prepared to fly to Langkawi in the evening. To kickstart the day, we indulged in a refreshing dip in the infinity pool at IBIS, soaking in the breathtaking view of the Kuala Lumpur skyline—a perfect morning energiser.

Embracing the convenience of Grab cabs, we started a city tour, exploring KL’s iconic landmarks. Our first stop was Merdeka Square, where the historic flag-raising event takes place. Just opposite to that, Sultan Abdul Samad building and River of Life are situated. From there, we proceeded to National Mosque of Malaysia, providing us with a stunning view of the Warisan Merdeka Tower. Our next destination was Istana Negara, where we caught a glimpse of the Sultan Palace, steeped in regal grandeur. From there we went to visit Maha Mariamman Temple, situated at the heart of Chinatown. Our last stop was the stunning Thean Hou Chinese Temple which was probably the first Chinese temple we had seen and it was grand.

Returning to the hotel, we bid farewell to IBIS, checked out, and headed to the airport for our flight to Langkawi. Upon landing in Langkawi, we seamlessly transitioned to a Grab ride, reaching our hotel (hotel Royal Agate) by 11:30 PM. They charged us MYR 2 as Heritage tax. Surprisingly, we discovered that Langkawi was a vibrant destination, reminiscent of a less crowded Goa but with superior infrastructure.

Eager to unwind, we treated ourselves to a relaxing reflexology foot massage (which costed: 1470 INR for both), concluding our eventful day with a well-deserved rest, ready for more adventures in this lively Malaysian paradise.

Day 3 – Our day in Langkawi began with an early start and a delightful buffet breakfast at the hotel, all while enjoying the serene view of the sea. To kick off our journey, we hopped on a shared minibus for an exhilarating Island Hopping Tour from Jeti Teluk Baru. The Island hopping trip was booked from Klook at the cost of 1630 INR for both of us. As we cruised through the Malaysian seas, we visited several stunning locations, each holding its own unique charm.

The first stop on our island-hopping escapade was the Pregnant Lady Island. True to its name, the island resembles the legendary Lake of the Pregnant Maiden—a mythical lake with a hill shaped like a woman lying on her back. Next, we explored Dayang Buntin Marble Geosite– a forest-enclosed lake, immersing ourselves in the enchanting surroundings. The charges for admission was 6MYR in cash in the island. It is open for swimming and rafting for all the tourists. The ethereal beauty of this site left a lasting impression.

One of the highlights was the Eagle-feeding experience, where we witnessed majestic eagles up close, soaring through the skies. The tour continued with visits to a pristine beach, Pulau Beras Basah adding a touch of tropical paradise to our journey. The entire island-hopping adventure lasted 4-5 hours, providing us with unforgettable memories.

Following the maritime exploration, we headed to the Langkawi Skycab Cable Car, Sky bridge and Sky Glide that we booked using Klook at the price of 3436 INR for both of us—the highest cable car ride in all of Malaysia. The Skycab Cable Car took us through the eastern cliffs of Mt. Machinchang, offering breathtaking views of lush rain-forests and the surrounding archipelago. Ascending 708m above sea level, we were treated to panoramic vistas of Langkawi town and even glimpses of Southern Thailand. If you are planning to visit Langkawi, it is a must visit spot.

To conclude our day, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Langkawi night market. As it changes locations daily, we visited the Kedawang Night Market, a Tuesday’s feature. Indulging in local delicacies such as satay, Mee Goreng, and various desserts, we savoured the flavours of Langkawi. The culinary experiment was followed by a visit to Pantai Cenang(Pantai in Malaysian means beach), where we enjoyed a mesmerising fire show by a talented team.

By midnight, we returned to our hotel, exhausted but content, ready to recharge for the exciting experiences awaiting us on Day 4.

Day 4 – On the fourth day of our Malaysia Trip, we set out on an alluring morning cruise through the intricate mangrove forests of Kilim Geoforest Park. We booked the trip from local tour operators at the cost of INR 5178 for both. The day began with journey to Tanjung Rhu Bay. Our first stop was at Tanjung Rhu Fish Farm where we were educated about the fishes of the region. We resumed our journey on the boat and spotted Gorilla Mountain on our way.

Our journey took us deeper into the heart of Kilim Geoforest Park, where a naturalist-guided tour unfolded the secrets of this unique habitat. On our way we spotted Shoe island and some islands from Thailand. We marvelled at the intricate network of mangrove roots, a vital nursery for various marine species. The Crocodile cave added an element of excitement as we navigated through its mysterious passageways, appreciating the untouched beauty of this pristine environment.

On the way we visited Bat cave, house of thousands of Bats. The entry fee was INR 72 for both of us. While cruising through the river, As the morning sun climbed higher in the sky, it created dappled patterns of light and shadow, enhancing the enchanting beauty of the Mangrove ecosystem when we encountered wild but friendly monkeys.

Amidst the tranquility, eagles soared gracefully overhead, showcasing their majestic presence in their natural habitat. Langkawi means Land of Eagles and at the Eagle Spotting place we realised how appropriate the name is. The mangrove forest, pulsating with life, allowed us to witness the vibrant ecosystem from morning to noon, an experience filled with awe and appreciation for the wonders of nature.

To complement this immersive journey, a local Sun Downer meal awaited us at the floating restaurant in Tanjung Rhu Fish Farm. Here, we indulged in a delightful feast while absorbing the stories shared by the naturalist, adding layers of knowledge to our exploration. After that we spent some time at Tanjung Rhu Beach. The white sand beach offers tranquility with stunning view that filled our hearts with with joy and contentment.

After returning, we headed towards Underwater World. The ticket price was INR 1890 for both of us and it took one hour to cover it. Eager to savour more moments by the beach, we headed to a beachside cafe, Yellow Beach Cafe, enjoyed a snack – before heading to the airport for our journey back to Kuala Lumpur, where a few more days of exploration awaited us.

Day 5 – Our fifth day in Malaysia promised a journey through history and nature on a shared tour, thoughtfully organised through Klook, to the iconic Batu Caves and the captivating Genting Highlands (Cost: 4368 INR for both).

Our exploration began at the legendary Batu Caves, a site steeped in history and spiritual significance and the colossal golden statue of Lord Murugan, standing as a guardian to the entrance. The caves, formed over millions of years, boast intricate Hindu sculptures and paintings, creating a sacred atmosphere within the natural limestone chambers. Home to a rich array of flora and fauna, the caves hold a special place in Malaysia’s cultural and religious heritage. Although entry to the dark cave was closed, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit.

From Batu Caves, our journey unfolded towards the renowned Genting Highlands, a cool hill station ensconced within a 100 million-year-old rainforest. This mountain retreat, just a short 45-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur, was developed by the visionary Chinese entrepreneur Lim Goh Tong. The Genting Skyway, our means of transport, dazzled us with breathtaking views as we ascended through the clouds.

As we continued our ascent, we marvelled at the grandeur of Genting Highlands. The brainchild of Lim Goh Tong, this mountain retreat not only houses the beautiful Chin Swee Temple but also boasts the colossal Genting Grand Hotel, the largest hotel in the world with 7000 rooms and world-class amenities -a beacon of luxury perched amidst the cool mountain heights.

In the evening, we visited the KL tower by walk and also caught a glimpse of the Merdeka building. Revealing majestic city view from the observatory deck, we descended with a sense of awe.

Day 6 – On our sixth day, we started our amazing journey to Malacca, a city where time seems to stand still, echoing the footsteps of history along its cobblestone streets. The allure of Malacca lies not only in its picturesque landscapes but also in its profound historical significance. Again we booked this trip from Klook and it costed us around INR 5178 (with lunch at a traditional Chinese restaurant) for both.

Our first stop was at St. Peter’s Church. The oldest functioning Roman Catholic Church in Malaysia follows strict dress code. Our next destination was A’Famosa, a historic fortress. We explored its ruins and learnt about its rich history, dating back to the 16th century. The heart of Malacca echoes with the whispers of centuries, and its churches stand as silent witnesses to the city’s storied past. The majestic St. Paul’s Church, perched atop St. Paul’s Hill, beckons with its weathered gravestones and timeless architecture. Descending towards the heart of the city, the Christ Church Melaka and the Red Square, adorned in striking red bricks, pay homage to Malacca’s Dutch colonial era.

As we traversed the charming lanes of Malacca, the Malacca Strait unfolding beside us, we were immersed in a living museum of diverse cultures and civilisations. The city’s UNESCO World Heritage status is a testament to its rich heritage, and this cultural diversity was palpable as we strolled through the Malacca Strait.

Beyond the architectural wonders, Malacca unfolded the narratives of its diverse communities. The Chitty Indians, with their unique blend of Hindu and Chinese cultures, presented a vibrant tapestry of traditions. Meanwhile, the Baba Nyonya, descendants of Chinese immigrants who married local Malays, left an indelible mark on Malacca’s cultural identity.

In the midst of this cultural odyssey, we encountered fellow travellers—a retired couple from Delhi, a couple from Canada, with the husband being a Sri Lankan native born in France and the wife a Canadian. Our diverse backgrounds added an extra layer to the shared experience, forging global connections amidst the historical splendours of Malacca.

Guided by a knowledgeable guide, our cultural exploration from Melaka River Walk to Jonker Street to Cheng Hoon Teng Temple visit, was enriched with historical context. The bus ride, comfortable and serene, provided a brief respite, allowing us to rest and rejuvenate. The encounter with Malacca’s cultural kaleidoscope was nothing short of a pleasure, and we were grateful for not missing this enriching chapter of our journey.

Day 7 – As our escapade drew to a close, we savoured a leisurely morning, relishing every moment before bidding farewell to Malaysia. Our destination for the day was Bukit Bintang. Venturing into the lively streets of Bukit Bintang, we found ourselves surrounded by a myriad of shopping havens, offering everything from high-end fashion to local treasures. Our retail odyssey became an opportunity to select gifts for our family, ending in getting a luxury bag that we(one of us) had our eyes on.From the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, a luxury shopping haven, to the vibrant Berjaya Times Square Mall, the diversity of offerings catered to every taste.

Our retail endeavours were followed by a delightful lunch at a local eatery, savouring the flavours of Malaysian cuisine that had become an integral part of our journey. The culinary experience added a final layer to our Malaysian escapade, allowing us to indulge in the gastronomic delights that the country had to offer.

With our hearts full of memories and bags laden with gifts, we embarked on a serene trip back to the airport, a reflective journey punctuated by the vibrant tapestry of experiences we had woven throughout our Malaysian stay.

Flight:

• Mumbai-Kuala Lumpur( to and fro): Malindo /Batik air- 5hr25min- INR 50788 for 2 pax. 1 hand baggage and 1 check-in luggage.
• Kuala Lumpur- Langkawi (to and fro): Air Asia- INR 9092 for 2 pax. We had to buy 2 check-in luggages additionally at the cost of INR 5328 in total.

Accommodation

Ibis Kuala Lumpur City Center (KLCC):

Cost: INR 3618 per night for 1 night. Check-in: 3pm. Check out: 12pm.
Amenities: Ibis KLCC offers comfortable and modern accommodations. The amenities include an infinity pool, fitness centre, restaurant, and clean, well-designed rooms.
Location: Centrally located in Kuala Lumpur City Center, it’s within walking distance of major landmarks like the Petronas Towers and Suria KLCC mall.

Royal Agate Hotel, Langkawi:

Cost: INR 2288 per night for 2 nights. Check-in: 3pm. Check out: 12pm.
Amenities: Despite its economical pricing , Royal Agate Hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms, essential facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Location: The hotel is strategically placed at Pentai Chenang, one of the happening areas in the island.

Concorde Hotel, Kuala Lumpur:

Cost: INR 5050 per night for 3 nights. Check-in: 3pm. Check out: 12pm.
Amenities: Concorde Hotel is known for its luxurious amenities, including a pool on the first floor, multiple dining options, spa, and well-appointed rooms.
Location: Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur (KLCC), it offers proximity to KL Tower, shopping districts and entertainment hubs.

Points to Remember:

1. Documents Required: Malaysia is Visa free for Indians (not Visa on arrival). All you need is a Passport with at least 6 months of validity, MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card) Form fill up that hardly takes 5 minutes and you are good to go. Make sure to fill-up the MDAC form as it gets checked during flight check-in and boarding at the airport. Also, we had printed copies of Flight Tickets, Hotel Bookings and Travel Insurance with us but none of these is checked anywhere.
2. Temperature: Malaysia is a tropical country with daytime temperatures hovering around 32-33 degrees Celsius. Consider the bright sun and occasional scorching heat while packing your bags. Don’t miss to pack your sunscreen, umbrella/hat or water bottle.
3. Clothes: There are places like Churches, Mosques or Temples where you need to be properly dressed. I prefer to keep Shrug or Scarf in my bag just in case.
4. Klook and Viator: We booked most of our trips and activities through Klook and Viator. Klook is more affordable than Viator.
5. Niyo: With low conversation charges, we prefer to pay by Niyo among all our forex and credit/Debit Cards.
6. Cash: It’s always safe to keep cash while traveling to an islands in a different country. Only cash is acceptable in most of the local stores or as entry fees.
7. Currency Conversion: It’s better to exchange cash in local Forex shops than at Airport (Airport shops have higher exchange rates). In actual, currently 1MYR equals to 18INR (almost). We lost around INR 7000 as exchange rate at the airport.
8. Petronas Towers Entry Ticket: If you are planning to visit Petronas Towers (Observatory decks and Sky Bridge), I’ll highly recommend to pre-book the tickets as there is high chances of the tickets being sold out. You have to be present 15 minutes prior to the actual time at the entry point of Petronas Tower (can be easily found at the ground floor of the Suria KLCC Mall). It generally takes 1 hour or so to visit.
9. KL Tower: Another important tower to visit in Kuala Lumpur is KL Tower. I walked in at the Ticket counter and was able to get ticket to Observatory deck at the cost of INR 864. The Skydeck and TW100 were closed.
10. Langkawi Sky Cab, Sky Bridge and Sky Glide: It is recommended to visit this must visit spot in afternoon because the sunset we experienced is one of the best sunsets of our lives.
11. Malacca/ Melaka: Most of the Museums and Boat Ride are closed on Friday.
12. Google Maps: I’d like to suggest to download the map of the cities offline.
13. Google Translator: I downloaded Malay language to translate it to English although it was rarely required. Most people understand and speak manageable English if not fluent.
14. Grab: Although we had installed Uber and Grab both but to be honest, Grab was saviour in this trip.
15. Go KL Bus Service: Malaysia’s local transportation is pretty advance with GoKL providing free bus services free of cost in 5 different routes( Red, Green, Blue, Purple and Orange). These routes can be easily found on Google.
16. KLIA Ekspres: Another convenient mode of transportation is Train – KLIA Ekspres. By mistake we had reached the wrong Terminal in Malaysia on the day back to India but took the KLIA Ekspres to reach the right terminal. It was on time and quick.
17. Marts: We were buying snacks from 7-11 or 24*7 marts. It’s affordable and can be found everywhere in KL and Langkawi.
18. Paid Washroom: Make sure to carry cash while using Washroom even at a mall. It’s not free. Also, at certain places, you’ll get facilities like Perfume, Talcum powder and Body Lotion.

As our Malaysia Trip concluded, we reflect on a journey that surpassed expectations. From vibrant Kuala Lumpur to serene Langkawi and the historical tapestry of Malacca, Malaysia revealed itself as a enchanting Southeast Asian gem.

Our hope is that our journey inspires fellow travellers to travel to Malaysia. Malaysia, with its efficiency, hospitality, and diverse landscapes, has left an imprint on our hearts. Terima kasih (thank you), Malaysia, for the diversity, discovery, and delightful surprises. Until our next adventure!

Instead of weed, I got high on History in Hampi. There is a distinct vantage point of Hampi apart from the hippie culture. This post is all about the ancient memoir of the Vijaynagara empire, the monolithic architectures and the shaded grandeur from the past. In short: if you looking for a post that would provide details of where to get “High” in Hampi, please buzz off! I had a weekend trip to Hampi from Pune starting on Friday night and ending on Monday morning. It was more like a heritage tour for me.

History: Located on the banks of Tungabhadra river in Karnataka, a religious and trading hub, Hampi was the capital of Vijaynagara Empire in 14th century. The glorious past depicts the story of an enriched city with wealth and prosperity till the end of Tulu dynasty. All the splendour faded when Muslim Sultans defeated the empire, looted and destroyed Vijayanagara turning it into ruins.

After a 12 hours journey from Pune to Hospet (Distance: 600 kilometers), when I reached Hospete, it was 11 am. The hustle and bustle of finding a hotel, checking room, settling down , having a wash and lunch took 2 hours (pfft!) and finally I started exploring the place around 1pm. The road was in a good condition so it took half an hour to reach Hampi from Hospete(Distance: 12 kilometers). I’ll try to provide as much information as possible.

Please note that as it was a religious center, temples are a significant part of this trip. All these ancient monuments are spread over 26 kilometers and the most convenient way to travel the ruins is by Auto, car or cycle. Auto will charge as per your bargaining skill ranging from Rs. 600-1500/- per day.

The view points of Hampi can be divided into three areas as mentioned below. These are the must-visit spots: Virupaksha Temple, Vijay Vitthala Temple, Ugra Narasimha Temple, Lotus Mahal and Mahanavami Dibba. Most of the below mentioned places don’t have any entry fee and can be visited from 6am-6pm.

One: You can see the photos in the slideshow by clicking the right/left arrow.

• Saasivekaalu Ganesha,
• Kadalekalu Ganesh,
• Virupaksha Temple,
• Hampi Bazar,
• Krishna Temple and Krishna Bazar,
• Ugra Narasimha Temple,
• Badavilinga Temple

Two:

• Underground Shiva Temple,
• Sister Stone,
• Zenana Enclosure with Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stable and Ranga Temple
• Hazara Rama Temple,
• Pan Supari Bazar,
• Royal Enclosure, Mahanavami Dibba and Pushkarini,
• Queens Bath,
• Archaeological Museum

Three:

• Bheema’s Gate
• Gejjala Mantapa
• Vijay Vitthala Temple
• King’s Balance

Here are few information about Hampi:

• One entry ticket can be used to enter Zenana Enclosure, Vijay Vitthala Temple and Archeological Museum Hampi. It costs Rs. 40/- for Indians and it is valid for one day only. So it is advisable to visit these places on the same day. Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stable, Ranga Temple are situated in and around the compound of Zenana Enclosure.
• The best time to visit Hampi is during Hampi Utsav that occurs on January/February.
• Don’t miss the Coracle ride. It is a round shaped boat. Please note that the service pauses during rain. Unfortunately the weather was not with me and I missed it.
• You can enjoy sunset at Hemakuta Hill or Matanga Hill.
• Here are few spots I could not visit due to lack of time: Archeological Museum , Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple and Achyutaraya Temple.

Anyway, after completing 6 of the holy Jyotirlingas out of 12, it was time to visit Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is 80 kilometres away from Indore, Madhya Pradesh. I have been to so many holy places but the scenic beauty of this one amazed me.

On one fine Saturday morning, we started around 11am from Indore and reached there by 1.15pm. The road was through hills. From the car parking, we had to walk around 700meters to reach the main temple. It is situated high above from the banks of Narmada. Blue water of Narmada is flowing in the middle of the hillocks. On the top of one hillocks, the holy temple is situated. You can avail the option of boat riding on Narmda. It was a beautiful sight.

To enter the main temple, you have to walk through a bridge. One dam can be spotted from the bridge.

There are two ways to get inside the temple. The general line is a long queue and there are a number of steps. For the older people and others, there is a VIP queue. After standing in the general queue, My mother and I realized that it was going to take some time. So we opted for VIP queue for Rs.300/-. That queue was short and it took about 20 minutes to get inside the temple. The real struggle started there. It was hell crowded. There was no space left to stand. Although the temple premises is big and construction was going on at that time, the room was very small and there are steps inside it. Everyone was pushing each other. Somehow we managed to view the Shivalinga hardly for 5 seconds. After travelling for 14 hours from Pune and 2 hours from Indore, all we got was a glance for 5 seconds. We took a lung full of oxygen after coming out. No photography was allowed inside. The temple premises, the river and the river banks were clean. It is normal to find beggars in such places in India.

As Maa wanted to visit, after getting out of the temple, we headed towards another temple, Mamaleshwar Temple. It was around 300 meters away but the steps were big. If you have breathing problem, it might cause trouble to catch breathe. This temple is not as well maintained as Omkareshwar. There were posters alerting people from pickpockets and monkeys. When we came out, it was 2.30 pm. On the way we spotted find food stalls and shops to buy things for worshiping. 

I am still amazed by the beauty of the Narmada and its banks. It was beyond my expectations. Even if you are atheist, I would suggest this place to admire scenic beauty.

How to reach? You can visit Bandel by train or car. Bandel Station is 53 kilometres from Sealdah Station and 50 kilometres from Howrah Station, Kolkata. The church is at a distance of 2.6 kilometres from Bandel Station.

Bandel Church: Situated in the middle of a market, Bandel Church is 2.6 kilometres away from Bandel Station. You can find vendors selling candlesticks just outside the church. The church was serene and beautiful. The garden and field were well maintained. You can sit here for hours. In the middle of the church, the statue of” One lady of Happy Voyage” is there.

History: The construction of Bandel Church began in 1599 when Portugese traders started to settle down in this area. Priests started to baptize the locals. The new Church was built in 1660 when the old turned into ashes by to Moors.

Hoogly Imambara: Another remarkable place, Hoogly Imambara is situated at a distance of 1.5kilometers from Bandel Church. It was built on the bank of river Hoogly in 1841-1861 and the construction was started by Haji Mohammed Mohsin. The entry fee was Rs.10/-.

The main attractions of this place were sun dial and the clock tower. The courtyard of Imamabara is beautifully decorated by fountains and surrounded by buildings. One side of this building is donated for Madrasah. What drew my attention was the aesthetics of the architecture. Here are few captures for reference.

When we went there, it was under constructions. The renovation should have been completed by now. Both the places can be covered in a span of 2-3 hours.

I was tired of noisy city life and in pursuit of break, we visited a part of Chhotonagpur Plateau called Ajodhya Hills. Don’t confuse it with Ayodhya of UP. Ajodhya Hills is in Purulia district in West Bengal.

The land of red soil is a place to get closer to nature. It’s a hilly area wrapped in forest where you’ll find pangolins, elephants, wolves and occasionally leopards. Utilities of our modern life haven’t grasped it yet causing nature to retain its pure form. Most of the people are of Santhal ethnic group. They might be poor financially but nature has treasured plenty of wealth for them.

When the clock ticked 1.45 pm, we checked in West Bengal Govt. CADC lodge, Malabika that is situated on the top of the hill. The rates are very cheap and it needs to be booked 2 months prior. Somehow, we managed to have lunch there and started our site seeing by 2.30pm. We couldn’t be late as we had plenty of places but less time. It is not suggested to drive cars with small tires in that region.

Our next destination was Khairabera.

Charida: Our next stoppage was Charida, the birthplace of Chhau Masks. Chhau is the world famous folk dance originated from Purulia and Charda is famous for making the masks used in Chhau. Chhau is a power pact dance form and how the dancers perform it wearing those heavy masks and costumes is commendable.

As we were stuck at  market place because of traffic jam for 30minutes, we had to miss certain places (Example: Lahoriya mandir). When we returned, it was dark outside at 6.15 pm.

Next morning, we left the place around 9.15am to explore more.

Pakhi Pahar: Imagine an entire hillock sculpted by an artist- isn’t it astonishing? Sculptor Chitta Dey has sculpted an entire hill with his creativity. Even from far away the birds he sculpted can be seen. People go there for trekking and camping.

On the way to return back, you can visit these 2 places as well:

Here are few important informations:

1. Most of the time, Mobile network will not be there. Forget about internet.
2. Take a driver who knows routes of the sites. Otherwise it will be time consuming to find direction. We rented a car there that costed Rs.1600/-.
3. There is no street light on the paths.
4. The roads are steeply and not well-formed in Ajodhya Hills.
5. If you want to enjoy, cultural program, you can request the lodge authority. They can arrange.
6. Do you misbehave with the host when you visit their place? No, right? Similarly, Ajodhya Hills is the house of simple minded, poor people with lack of amenities and around wild animals. Let their lives be uninterrupted when you are their guest.
7. West Bengal Government lodges: Malabika, Niharika and Bibhabari are pretty cheap yet cozy, clean and comfortable. Here are the rate cards for rooms and foods. We booked the rooms 2 months prior.

-“Wait. What?”

-“Yeah.”

To escape the bleak January evenings of Pune, we made a quick weekend gateway plan to Udupi/Udipi, a beach town in Karnataka. Udupi is 60 kilometers away from Mangalore and is 700 kilometers from Pune. The beauty of the journey was some part of it was through the coastal areas of Karnataka. We started our journey at night and when we woke up, the Arabian Sea was accompanying us alongside.

The transition from chilling winter breeze to the warmth of the sunshine happened over night. After 13 hours of journey, we reached Udupi around 10.30 am. Our booking was at Udipi Heights.

After getting freshened up, our agenda was to try out some authentic delicacies and this Hotel named Annapurna in the same building served our purpose. Here is a picture of the Fish Thali we had. The overnight journey took a toll on us and we decided to take a break for 2 hours before exploring Udupi. Around 4 pm we headed towards Kaup/Kapu Beach.

Kapu/Kaup Beach is the hang-out place for school/college-goers. The main attraction was the beach houses a light house built in 1901. It is 15 kilometers away from the town and autos take Rs. 250/-. You can reach the top of the light house from 5-6.30 pm and enjoy sunset. In spite of being crowded, the place was clean. You can relax, have snacks and drink coffee in the seashore.

It was time to return to the town for our main attraction: Sri Krishna Math Paryaya. on the way back, we stopped at Udupi Gate for this picture.

Sri Krishna Math: One of the major reasons for this trip was the Paryaya of Sri Krishna Temple/Math. Sri Krishna Math was founded by Vaishnavite Shri Madhvacharya in 13th Century to worship Hindu deity, Shri Krishna. The idol is worshiped through a silver plated window with nine holes named Navagraha Kindi. There are eight maths (known as Ashta Math) established by Shri Madhvacharya and each math takes care of the management and maintenance of the temple for 2 years. These Maths are:Palimaru Matha, Adamaru Matha, Krishnapura Matha, Puthige Matha, Shiroor Matha, Sodhe Matha, Kaniyooru Matha and Pejawara Matha. This year, Ishapriya Tirtha Swami of Adamaru Math took charge of Shri Krishna Temple from Vidyadheesha Tirtha Swami of Palimaru math.

Paryaya is the religious event where the responsibility of administration and worship of the temple is transferred from one of the Ashta maths to another. This process reoccurs once in every two years of even numbered years. On 18th January of every even numbered years, the city celebrates this holy occasion. This year when 18th January fell on weekends, we did not want to miss it. The entire city has been decorated with lights and placards.People were in festive mood. There were stalls of toys, clothes, accessories, balloons and food items. For the people who could not stand on the long queue to enter the temple, the evening Arti could be seen on the TV screen placed outside the gate of the temple. I have never experienced such crowded yet graceful and astounding celebration. Everything was done systematically including the procession.

One word of caution: be careful of pick-pocketing. I almost became a victim before I could identify the person. Fortunately, I became cautious in time.

Please note that there is a Golden Chariot festival in Udupi where a Krishna idol was placed on the chariot made of gold.

Our morning started with Neer Dosa– a local edible famous for its simple preparation of the batter with water. Unlike regular dosas, the crape was white as sheet and was served with white chatni, podi and a coconut mix that tasted sweet. We had our breakfast at Hotel New Shanthi Sagar and it costed Rs. 50/-.

St. Mary’s Island: St. Mary’s Island/Coconut Isand is the unparalleled beguiling beach in Udupi. This spectacular beach is 7 kilometers away from the coast of Karnataka and can be reached by ferries. It is said that Vasco da Gama first set his foot into this Island when he was travelling from Portugal. The turquoise blue water, clean white sand and green coconut trees elevated the beauty of the island. On the other side of island, the existence of the sand is bare minimum. The beach is covered with uncountable layers of shells that are of different shape and size. Thousands of seashells can be seen through the water. Be careful when you walk bare feet.

Apart from the historical interest and exquisite natural beauty, this seaboard holds great geographical values: The entire island is surrounded by basaltic rock formations-this can be found here only in India. These hexagonal rocks were formed when Madagascar island moved apart from India. The rock formations resembled a lot with the iron throne from Game of Thrones.

Here are some useful information: We booked our tickets for the ferry. It costed Rs. 250/-.  The timings of the trip are 9 am to 4.30 pm (September to May). it may vary on weekends and on other holidays. In the middle of the sea, we had to shift from the ferry to a steamer to reach the island. It took half an hour to reach there. Once we got down, we had to submit all our luggage in the counter because carrying plastic bottles, polythene bags and alcohol are strictly prohibited. They charged Rs.20/- for each luggage and Rs. 200/- to carry camera in the island. If you ever been to Udupi, don’t miss this place. it will take 2 hours at least to explore the island including the time taken in the journey. There were food and drink stalls and washroom in the island.

As our bus was around 2.15 from Udupi Bus stand, we had to rush back. Udupi holds surprises in layers. The moment I thought it was the best memory I had collected from here, it surprised me with something better. The culture, cuisine, colors- everything was enchanting. We bid adieu to the city with amazing experience.

Due to lack of time, we could not visit St. Lawrence Church situated 20 kilometers away from Udupi town. This beautiful Roman Catholic church was made on 1759.

Here are some details about our trip:

Buses: Both the buses took 13 hours in journey.

Pune-Udupi: VRL Travels. The bus was semi-sleeper and the ticket costed Rs. 1223/- per person.

Udupi-Pune: Vishal Travels: The bus was sleeper but was very dirty. the ticket costed Rs.1536/- per person. I’ll not recommend this.

We spent around Rs. 4600/- for this trip.

Apart from being a trekking site,  Bhimashankar has its mythological value in Hinduism. It is considered as one of the 12 Jyotirlinga sites of Hindu deity, Lord Shiva. It is almost 130 kilometres away from Pune and took us a little more than 3hours to reach there without any break.

When we stepped in, Maharashtra heat hit us badly. The initial path was without any roof, the path was crowded and congested with humans and monkeys.

After 10 minutes of walk, finally we were under the roof. Please note: there are 150 steps down to the temple premises. So when you are going to the temple, remember the number of steps you have to climb up to get back. After a lot of hustle of an hour, finally we were inside the temple. You’ll find food, drink, snacks, flowers, sweets and toy vendors on the way. So that is what you should not worry about.

When we entered the main temple premises, we were already exhausted but the place was so crowded  that you have to gain your energy back to struggle.

On the inside walls you’ll find idols of Ganapaiti. The Shivalinga was covered with milk and an idol of Vishnu can be seen on the wall. What is disappointing is that you put so much effort just for 1-2 minutes of eyeing the idols and that too in a chaotic atmosphere. Yes that’s right. That’s the time they will let you be inside the main temple. There is restriction on photography. So no photos!

There were a lot of other temples around and we saw them after coming out. The challenging part was  we had to climb up through the stairs. We took break, had snacks and drinks. Finally when we reached at the parking area, it was 2.45pm. On our way back we saw the beauty of Solanpada dam. We took 15 minutes of tea break and finally due to the great driver we got from Ola, we reached at our place around 6.20pm. The expenditure for the car was Rs. 3060/-.

Here are few things, I would like to mention:

1. Make sure you have umbrella or cap with you.
2. There are 150 broad stairs and there are people who can carry a person on chair. You can rent.
3. Have patience if it is crowded. Keep your phone, wallet at a safe place.
4. The place is not a quiet and serene place.
5. There are monkeys.
6. We went there in mid-February. We should have started a little early to avoid heat and sun.
7. We were already exhausted so we could not go but if you have time, you can visit Hanuman Lake that is 100kilometres from the temple. It can be reached out by trekking as well.

This is us before entering the temple premises. That is my Maa and my friend, Arnab.

As we had one day for South Goa, we had to plan it properly. First, among those twenty of marvelous beaches we sorted five. Second, we were 6 people. We booked a cab from Panjim that took Rs. 4500/- (Rs. 750/- each) for 12 hours. Third, we decided to go to the extreme south first.

We had our breakfast and then started around 9.15am.

 Palolem Beach: Our first destination was 70kilometers away from Panjim, Palolem Beach. It took 2 hours. Palolem beach is one of the happening places in South Goa. It has multiple modes of entertainment: restaurants, clubs (like Silent Noise Club), water sports activities etc.

From there we took a boat for Dolphin Sight Seeing and to reach out to Honeymoon Beach.

Monkey Island: On the way we crossed Monkey Island. As the name suggests, the Island is full of Monkeys and we did not stop there.

Dolphin Sight Seeing: We booked an entire boat for 6 people at Rs. 3000/- (Rs. 500/- each).  It was totally worth it because we saw multiple dolphins in a span of 20-25minutes.

Honeymoon Beach: Our next destination after Dolphin Sight Seeing was to Honeymoon beach. The beach was serene and secluded. There is one shop for snacks and beverages. If you want to spend some lone time with your partner, this island is the best place for that.

Butterfly Beach: Butterfly beach totally does justice to the name. The green hillocks expanded in such a way from two sides of the beach that it looks like wings. The water was so deep that the boat could not stop there. There is a way to reach there by trekking.

After coming back to Palolem beach we had our lunch at a shack. What is better than having authentic Goanese food: Fish Curry made with fresh fish from the ocean and Aamchur, Rice and Butter Garlic Prawns.

Agonda Beach: After spending three hours there, we moved towards Agonda Beach. It was 9 kilometers away from Palolem Beach. Agonda beach is completely different from Palolem. It seems time has stopped there and the crowd just vanished. The beach is very clean. The beauty of the beach gets a different dimension as a stream at the end of the beach makes its way to the ocean. Lucky us that we were the only people at the beach that time.

Cabo De Rama Fort: We could not go to this fort due to time crunch, but I would like to suggest you this one. It is said that Lord Rama alongside his wife Sita stayed here during there 4years of exile.

Colva Beach: It took 2 hours to reach our last destination before heading towards hotel. The distance from Agond to Colva was 41 kilometers. We have heard a lot about Colva beach and the place doesn’t disappoint. You’ll get lively crowd, water sports, fancy shacks, shops etc. We found several sea animals lying here and there on the beach. You can feel the Goan vibe in the air.

We left Colva around 7.30pm. Within an hour we reached hotel.

South Goa can not be travelled within a day. We just came across the beaches we wanted to visit. There are many hidden beaches there that can be compared to paradise. I hope this article gives you a brief idea about beaches at South Goa.

This is my picture so that you don’t forget your blogger.