Did you know that when all digits on the serial number of a currency note are the same (like ‘555555’ or ‘777777’) it is a type of fancy note? Or if there is a pointed star under the year of a coin, it has been manufactured in the Hyderabad mint? Well, it is unlikely that… Continue reading Corporation Bank Heritage Museum (Coin Museum) – Udupi: a numismatists’ delight
“When we perform in an all women squad, I always essay the role of ‘Bhima’” said Gouramma an established leather puppet artist from a remote village in Ramnagar in Karnataka. The glint of pride in her voice was unmissable as she narrates how this art has been an integral part of her life. Her parents… Continue reading Togalu Gombeyata: traditional form of puppetry – of art, drama and song
As mentioned in several of my earlier posts, India is a treasure trove of magnificent temples and ancient monuments. There are several such ‘hidden gems‘ in the form of beautiful, ornate temples dating back centuries in and around the bustling IT city of Bengaluru. Yet another addition to this wonderful list is the Ramalingeshwara group of… Continue reading Photo essay: Ramalingeshwara group of temples, Avani
With hectic lifestyles within claustrophobic cities becoming the order of the day, a getaway from the concrete urban jungle is always a welcome change. There is something about being close to nature that is so rejuvenating and refreshing. One such sojourn I recently undertook was a visit to the seemingly sleepy town of Mosale located… Continue reading Multifaceted Mosale: a perfect weekend getaway from Bengaluru
Picture this: lush greenery, meandering roads lined with the prettiest of flowers, unending carpets of coffee and verdant hills playing peek-a-boo with fleeting clouds. Sounds like paradise on earth? Well, this is Coorg aka Kodagu for you. At an altitude of 1525 meters and a distance of 270 km from Bangalore, it is the most… Continue reading Charismatic Coorg: of Cauvery, coffee and culture
Given India’s rich cultural history and diverse religious beliefs, temples have always been an integral part of our ethos and culture. Exquisite temples that are an epitome of grandeur have been built by Indian rulers since time immemorial. A travel to any nook and corner of the country is sure to reveal architectural gems in… Continue reading Veerabhadra temple, Lepakshi: a picture of architectural splendour
First off, here’s wishing all my readers a wonderful 2018! Hope your year is filled with joy, fun and of course many happy travels! Here is a quick post on the Kallu Ganapati temple which is a hidden gem near the town of Barkur in Udupi district. Dedicated to the Lord of Beginnings or Lord… Continue reading Kallu Ganapati temple: Padumundu, Shiriyara: A photoessay
As you enter the gates of the Royal Orchid Metropole hotel situated in the heart of Mysore city, you are instantly transported into a world full of charm, style and understated grandeur. Originally built as the guest house of the Maharaja of Mysore, this 97-year-old building has been beautifully transformed into a heritage hotel and… Continue reading Royal Orchid Metropole, Mysore: an ideal combination of the classic and contemporary
Brindavan Gardens Impeccably maintained lawns, manicured bushes, exquisitely crated fountains and lush greenery are some of the first things that catch your attention as you make your way down the stairs of the legendary Brindavan gardens. One of the major tourist attractions of Mysore since its completion in 1932, the beautiful gardens attract as many… Continue reading Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden Palace and Spa: luxury in the lap of nature
“Welcome to the Land of Toys” says the green signboard as you drive down to Channapatna on the Mysore-Bengaluru highway. Located about 60 km from Bengaluru, the town is also known as “Gombegala Ooru” in Kannada, which translates into toy town. The little town is synonymous with the production of wooden toys and lacware, which… Continue reading A toy story: wooden toys of Channapatna, Karnataka
