Quantcast
Channel: The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step
Viewing all 328 articles
Browse latest View live
↧

Delhi : Sanderson's Sundial in Qutub Complex

July 26, 2015, 9:12 pm
$
0
0
The Sanderson's Sundial is located near the Cupola in the Qutub complex, which is located near the Mehrauli Archaeological Park on the Sri Aurobindo Marg, the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar.



To be frank, I didn't know how a sundial actually looked, though I had heard of it.

A sundial is device the measures the time, it that measures the position of the sun, against the shadow cast by a blade on a reference scale.


Sanderson's Sundial
The dial is  built of marble and has a blade in the center of it. When the sun light falls on it, the shadow of the blade determines the time. It was around 1 PM on my watch, but to be very frank I was not able to understand the time based on the sundial.

The sundial was built in the memory of Sanderson , who was one of the Archaeologist of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). He carried out extensive excavations in and around this place. 
↧
Search

Delhi : Smith's Cupola in Qutub Complex

July 27, 2015, 9:10 pm
$
0
0
The Smith's Cupola aka Smith's Folly is located near Sanderson's Sundial in the Qutub Complex, which is located near the Mehrauli Archaeological Park on the Sri Aurobindo Marg, the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar.

My first thoughts on the Smith Cupola, were. "Why is this built in the middle of nowhere?" 
Qutub Minar


Rohan, my friend and guide informed me that it was once placed atop the Qutub Minar. To which, I was like, "What?" as it didn't match the design of the Qutub Minar.

The Qutub Minar, was built to commemorate the victory of Muhammad Ghori over Prithviraj Chauhan, in the 13th century A.D. It was the first monument of Islamic Afghan architecture in India. 
Smith Cupola

Qutub-ud-din Aibak initiated the construction of Qutub Minar. Qutub building Qutub. But he could finish only the first storey in his lifetime, The Minar was made of red and buff sandstone with fluted columns on the exterior and covered with the kufic style of Islamic calligraphy. Iltutmish, Qutub-ud-din’s successor carried the work on to completion, he constructed three more storeys in the same style.

The Minar was the tallest structure then and hence had to suffer the wrath of mother nature i.e earthquakes and lightning. Due to which the top most part of the Minar fell to the ground. It was then repaired under the orders of Feroz Shah Tughlaq. The repairs were done with marble and a new Cupola was placed atop it.

Mother Nature attacked again in 1803 with a earthquake and it destroyed the Cupola built by Feroz Shah.

By this time the British, were in India. Major Robert Smith was authorized by the British Governor General of India (Name not known) to carry on the repairs. 


Major Smith was asked to re create and not re invent. Which he did. He had replaced the Indo Islamic cupola with a Bengali Styled Chattri. As the work he had done nowhere matched the Qutub Minar, it was taken off and was placed in the Qutub Minar premises. It is called Smith's Folly ever since.  
↧
↧

Delhi : Ziggurat one off Metcalfe's Folly in Qutub Complex

July 28, 2015, 9:56 pm
$
0
0
The Ziggurat one off Metcalfe's Folly is located in the Qutub Complex, which is located near the Mehrauli Archaeological Park on the Sri Aurobindo Marg, the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar.


The Ziggurat one off Metcalfe's Folly

These two structures are located within the Qutub Complex. 

There is a railing put around it, so entry to the top of it is restricted. Not sure about it's history though.

Both are pyramid like structures made of stone, but built differently. By the look of it, they looks like they have been restored. Both the structures are not vey tall. One looks just like a pyramid, a series of steps takes one to the top. The other a spiral pathway leading to the top. Had they been open, they would have offered a wondeful view of the Qutub Complex.

The Ziggurat one off Metcalfe's Folly

↧

Delhi : Sultan Ghari Tomb

July 30, 2015, 9:59 pm
$
0
0
Sultan Ghari Tomb is located at Malakapur Village near Vasant Kunj in Delhi which is near the Qutub Minar Complex.
Signboard on the road leading to Masjid Sultan Ghari


Sultan Ghari Tomb was the first Islamic Tomb built by Iitumish in 1231 AD for his son Prince Nasiru'd-Din-Mahmud. Iitumish was the third sultan of the Slave Dynasty who ruled Delhi between 1210 AD to 1236 AD. 

A muddy road leads one to the Sultan Ghari Tomb.
Sultan Ghari entrance and fortification
First thoughts: Looking at the structure, I thought it was  a fort, with the tomb situated within it. I saw a couple of vendors sitting outside it selling flowers and articles of worship. The tomb is visited by both Hindu and Muslim devotees from around Delhi. Rohan told me that on Thursday it , is full house here.
Chhatri outside Sultan Ghari Tomb
A series of steps leads to the entrance of the premises, it had four bastion like structure around it with large windows in the walls. The walls were made of sandstone, common material used for building most of the historical structures around Delhi. 
Sultan Ghari Tomb
We entered the fortification via the door and walked inside barefeet. A octagonal structure lied in the middle of the walls. There were people sitting next to the fortification walls.Maybe they had come to offer prayers. But where is the tomb? was the question I had in my mind. 
Ruins outside Sultan Ghari
Rohan and I walked all around the octagonal structure and finally I located  a small door, from the door a series of winding steps leads one to the tomb. The steps are so narrow that only one person can travel at a time. Reminded me of the steps at Sindhudurg Fort in Malvan. The steps narrow steps had made it impossible for me to get down from the fort walls. 
Stairs leading to the tomb
There are a couple of tombs here. The one covered in white sheet is the tomb of Nasiru'd-Din-Mahmud. There are candles lit all around it and people praying near it. We stood still for a moment here and then decided to see around. A couple of pillars hold the tomb top from the inside. Taking photos is a bit difficult here due to low lightning. But I still managed to get a couple of shots without turning on the flash and gathering attention. 
Sultan Ghari Tomb
I couldn't stand there for much longer , as I was finding it difficult to breathe and hence rushed to  the surface. Rohan joined me up in a couple of minutes.
People queuing up to go in the Tomb premises
We then decided to walk on the walls surrounding the tomb to get a better view of the place. There are a couple of ruins located outside the Tomb premises. There is also the Chhatri of Iitumish son located outside the tomb premises. 
Islamic verses in Sultan Ghari
The dome placed on the four bastion like structure had a unique and different shape, something which I had never on the other historical structures around Delhi. 
More Ruins outside Sultan Ghari
We then headed out of the tomb premises as it was almost sunset. 
↧

Bhivpuri Waterfall (Umroli) at Bhivpuri near Karjat

August 3, 2015, 9:14 pm
$
0
0
I have been on many trips in many seasons, but I haven't covered many waterfalls, which is why I decided to visit Waterfalls around Mumbai in rains. As rains is the best time to visit them. 
Different shades of Green

I had shared my waterfall itinerary with Manohar, Dominic and Neha. Our itinerary was more or less the same. We then started our planning to visit the waterfalls, but due to some reason or the other the plans were getting cancelled. A couple of weeks passed by but no plans were getting materialized. I feared that soon the rains would be over and we would not visit a single waterfall.

A day in advance we decided to visit the waterfall. Fantastic Four (Manohar, Neha, Urvashi and Me). Manohar, Neha and I had done Jawahar Waterfall, last year. Urvashi and I had done Chinchoti Waterfall a couple of years ago. 
Manohar, Urvashi, Neha and Me

Our Itinerary had the waterfalls of Vangani, Kalote, Bhivpuri, Palasdari and Zenith in Khopoli. To cover five waterfalls in one trip is difficult if we travel by train, so we decided to travel by car so that we can cover as many as possible.

On most of our trips we rely big time on GPS and then we get lost. This time was no different. Time cost us dearly. We kick started our road trip from Ghatkopar Railway Station at 7:30 AM. Instead of taking the Karjat route we traveled on the Kasara route and that cost us dearly. Finally we decided to ask locals around for directions to Khopoli so that we don't waste any more time. Not sure which road we were traveling by, but we wanted to get to the waterfalls. 
Neha and Urvashi with backdrop of the waterfall
The weather around us had started changing now. We had left the hot sun and civilization back in Kalyan and were now being surrounded by hills, fields and houses in a distance. The weather had changed. The sun hid himself behind the rainy clouds. But no sign of the rains yet. 

No sooner had we crossed Neral Railway Station. (Base for Matheran) had it started raining heavily. The wipers were at their fastest, but we could hardly see the road. Soon the rain was gone and weather was pleasant. Different shades of green all around us. The color green was very soothing and refreshing to my eyes. Something very similar to Malsej Ghat and Jawahar. 

We traveled by the Neral-Badlapur Road, then onto the Karjat-Murbad Road to reach Umroli. 
Panoramic view of the waterfall

The hills had their heads in the clouds, the brightly colored houses stood out on the gloomy day. I had to switch on HDR mode to get the additional brightness. 
Different shades of Green

Bhivpuri Waterfall, was our first pit stop. It can be reached by boarding a Karjat local on the central railway line. Alighting at Karjat Railway Station, crossing over to the eastern side and boarding a rickshaw. Rickshaw fare can vary. Urvashi had asked one of the rickshaw drivers and he informed it will cost Rs 50. from Karjat Station to base village of waterfall i.e Umroli.
Crowd at Bhivpuri Waterfall

We parked the car at the base village (Umroli) to see the waterfall. The locals let out barren portions of their land for parking purposes but for a fee. Parking cost was Rs.50. To top it there is a fee to see the waterfall. Rs. 10 per person. From when did Waterfalls become chargeable? was the question in everyone's mind. The locals charge you Rs.10 but don't provide you with a receipt for the same. Cheap Jacks trying to make additional income, thanks to the waterfall. 

It is advisable to visit the waterfalls on the weekdays as the crowd is less then. After crossing two streams and then climbing up the hillock reaches one to the waterfall. It is advisable to wear sandals or floaters.  
Bhivpuri Waterfall
The different shades of green was so soothing to my eyes. The farms being cultivated in a distance, the hill locks covered with grass and the slippery and muddy path leading to the waterfall made a nice trek, We didn't break a sweat. But no rains either.

There was roadside make shift stalls selling cold drinks, tea and hard drinks along with corn smoked on charcoal and vada pav. 
Bhivpuri Waterfall in the background
The waterfall area was packed with people. Couples, friends, families who had come in large nos. to sit below the waterfall. The crowd up here was unbearable and hence we decided to visit Kalote waterfall in Karjat. 

As people we asked didn't know the whereabouts of it we went ahead and visited Palasdhari Waterfall. 
↧
↧

Palasdhari Waterfall at Palasdari near Karjat

August 3, 2015, 9:12 pm
$
0
0
Palasdhari aka Palasdari Waterfall can be reached both by road and rail. To reach Palasdhari by rail, one has to alight at Palasdhari railway station and walk it out to the waterfall and dam, not sure how much time it will take. The other way is to travel by road i.e Karjat Khopoli Marg.
Karjat Khopoli Marg
 After visiting Umroli Bhivpuri Waterfall, we decided to head over to Kalote Waterfall. But due to no signboards, unreliable GPS and deserted roads, we kept moving. The road stretch was amazing with a few potholes on the way. Something similar to what I had seen while travelling to Cabo de Rama Fort in Goa without the potholes. The greenery around us as soothing to my eyes.

When asked a couple of locals, there were not sure as to the whereabouts of Kalote. We then decided to ask them about Palasdari, they provided us with directions and we followed the same.
Trail to Palasdhari Waterfall next to the flowing water
To some extent the Karjat Khopoli Road runs parallel to the railway line. After crossing Kelavli Railway station, we noticed the railway line going up hill. There were two  sets of tracks now. Not sure where they were going.  We could see the railway tracks high up in the hills. We were lucky enough to see three engines climbing uphill, soon they disappeared in the tunnel.

Finally we reached the spot. No signboards here. A couple of cars were parked here, in the middle of nowhere. Some children were selling farm produce too. On one side of the road is located the Palasdhari Lake and Dam and on the other the trail leading to the waterfall.
Palasdhari Waterfall
Again we asked the children for directions and we walked on a stony cum muddy track parallel to the flowing water to reach Palasdhari Waterfall.

There is a guard posted here, who will charge you a fee of Rs.20 each to see the waterfall. The prices have gone up by 10 bucks here. Hopefully the waterfall should be better and bigger than Bhivpuri, is what I thought. But the guard here did issue us a receipt for the same. 

We then walked alongside the flowing water, climbed uphill, saw a mini dam there, where some guys were having a good time, is this all? I said to myself.
Palasdhari Waterfall
We saw a family getting down, Ray of Hope. We followed the trail and finally we were at the waterfall. This waterfall is definitely much smaller than the one at Bhivpuri. It can't be seen from a distance. Like a secret waterfall. 

A couple of drunkards were at the waterfall. So we decided not to get too close to the waterfall. Comparatively the crowd was much lesser than Bhivpuri. Had we come on a weekday, we would have had the waterfall to ourselves.
Neha, Urvashi, Manohar and Me at Palasdhari Waterfall
Again for snacks corn is available here. no beverages. If you thirsty you can have the flowing water from the hills. Filtered in the hills. LOL

So do carry food and water while visiting this place. 
Panoramic view of Palasdhari Lake from Karjat Khopoli Marg
As it was around 4:30 PM, we had now to make a choice if we should visit Zenith Waterfall in Khopoli or head back home. 

Stay tuned to read more...
↧

Zenith Waterfall in Khopoli near Karjat

August 4, 2015, 9:50 pm
$
0
0
Zenith Waterfall is located at Khopoli, the closest railway station being Khopoli. It is located very close to the old Mumbai Pune Highway. Khopoli is roughly around 80 KM away from Mumbai.
Zenith Waterfall
By the time we were done visiting Palasdhari Waterfall, the time was around 4:45 PM on my watch. Time was passing by and we were not sure how much time it would take us to reach and explore Zenith Waterfall from here. We still decided to take our chances and headed over to see Zenith Waterfall.

We initially traveled by the Karjat Khopoli Marg, later on the Old Mumbai Pune Highway. Finally we took a small road that runs parallel to the Old highway. This is the entrance to Khopoli. On this road is located the Khopoli Railway Station and the waterfall. This road later joins the Old Mumbai Pune Highway. I was introduced to this road by Massey, on our bike ride to Indurigad. It is like a shortcut while traveling to Pune by the Old highway. As the road is narrow it can be a bottleneck at times. There are houses and shops along with a Jain temple here. 


Panoramic view of Zenith Waterfall

In a matter of 30 minutes we  were at the entrance of the waterfall. Not sure as to why it is called Zenith Waterfall. The factory of India Steel Works is located very close to the waterfall.

From the entrance point I could see the waterfall from a distance, it was just amazing. The hill range has got many waterfalls, but all are not accessible. The sun had finally come out of the clouds and lightened up the place, making the view even more spectacular.

We parked the car at the entry point of the waterfall and from there headed over on foot to visit the waterfall. The stony trail leading to the waterfall is near a water stream. The water from the waterfall flows in the stream. 


Closer view of Zenith Waterfall
One has to cross the water stream twice to reach the waterfall. It is advisable to wear sandals or floaters as the water is knee deep. A thin muddy path surrounded by thick flora leads to the waterfall. 

Finally we were at the waterfall. The water falls from a 30 feet drop. Something very similar to Jawahar Waterfall in Jawahar. The stones near the waterfall had moss on them and were slippery. Neha, Urvashi and I decided to get in the waters while Manohar stayed put. But the strong wind and gushing waterfall, could get you wet even without stepping in the water. 
Urvashi, Neha and me in Zenith Waterfall
The water was ice cold, We couldn't stand below the waterfall as the pressure was to much. So Neha found a place to sit near it, Urvashi and I followed her. The pressure was so strong that I could hardly open my eyes. The sound of the waterfall blared in my ears, cutting me off from the rest of the world. 

The waterfall can be used to shoot dream song sequences. Many songs featured in Bollywood movies might have been shot here in the past. 

Apart from us there was a family there, who had come to see the waterfall. So it was just 15 of us in total. I don't like crowds. On weekdays there might be no crowd here. The good part is that there is no charge to see the waterfall. 
Manohar, Urvashi, Neha and Me at Zenith Waterfall
There is tea and corn available at the waterfall premises. 

What a fantastic way to end the trip. As someone has rightly said, we always save the best for last. The best waterfall on our waterfall trip. We had a great time. Thanks Guys :)

As it was almost dawn we headed over to the car park, had tea and snacks, from there headed home. Finally home at 10:00 PM. 
↧

Delhi : Gandhak ki Baoli in Mehrauli Archaeological Park

August 5, 2015, 9:29 pm
$
0
0
Gandhak ki Baoli is located in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, which is located near Qutub Complex on the Sri Aurobindo Marg, the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar. 

Gandhak ki Baoli can be reached by walking on the muddy path within the Mehrauli Archaeological Park premises. 

There are two Baoli or step well's in the Park premises. This step cut well was called Gandhak ki Baoli, because the water in it smelled of Sulphur. 


Gandhak ki Baoli

The rains in India, has always been uncertain and hence the need to conserve water, has always been the priority on the list of most of the people in  the country. Hence we have plenty of wells throughout the county apart from the lake and rivers for water supply. 

Gandhak ki Baoli was constructed by Emperor Iltutmish. 

It is a rock cut step well, it is four to five levels deep in the ground. The area around it was grilled and the entry point sealed with lock, we couldn't enter Baoli premises. The well was filled with water but not suitable for drinking purposes. In comparison to Rajon ki Baoli the construction of this stepwell is very simple.  

There is a step cut well in Tughlakabad fort premises.
↧
Search

Delhi : Gumti in Mehrauli Archaeological Park

August 6, 2015, 9:47 pm
$
0
0
Gumti is located in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, which is located near Qutub Complex on the Sri Aurobindo Marg, the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar. 

Information on Gumti

Gumti

There are many small monuments in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, the best way to explore them is on foot. Though most of them are surrounded by bushes and wild growth, which sometimes makes it difficult to visit them. As these monuments are deserted it is advisable to go with friends for company. 

Not much information is available about the history of this monument apart from the signboard located near it. 

Certain portions of the monument are in ruins, ASI should start the restoration work on this monument.  
↧
↧

Kalote Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba in Kalote Mokashi near Karjat

August 9, 2015, 11:28 pm
$
0
0
Kalote Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba is located near to Kalote Mokashi. The closest Railway stations are Karjat and Khopoli. If you travelling by road, then it is located off NH4. 
Kalote Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba


As planned Dominic and I decided to go visit the waterfalls of Kalote and Vangani on Saturday. Original plan was to visit Vangani first and Kalote later. 

We boarded the 7:03 AM Fast local to Karjat. The local trains to destination Karjat commence hourly so plan wisely as the trains could be crowded. The train was to reach Vangani at 8:15 AM and Karjat at 8:39 AM. The train was empty when I boarded it at Dadar. The train got packed at Thane, Dombivli, Kalyan, so much so that we had to drop the plan of alighting at Vangani station and head straight to Karjat.
Puri Bhaji for breakfast outside Karjat Station in the west

Apart from us there were many trekking groups who had boarded the train, not sure as to where they were headed. There was also a band of boys (school boys) who played the drum in the train, so loud that the I could feel my heartbeat racing. Loud music energizes you to dance, sadly there was no place to stand in the train. LOL.

Finally we reached Karjat at 8:39 AM. Crossed over to the West and had breakfast in the form of Puri Bhaji. I have had vada pav here when I visited Kondana Caves aka Kondivade Caves with Mike. it was crowded then and so it is now. It cost us Rs.20 a plate we headed over to the Shriram Pool (bridge) to board a tum tum to Kalote Village. 
View of the lake and the green water body behind

When we inquired with the Tum Tum drivers, they just stared at our faces. They informed us that no Tum Tum ply to that place from there. Strange as I had read on one of the blogs that they boarded a Tum Tum. It then occurred to me that they boarded it from the East. I immediately inquired if we were in the East or West. To which we were informed that we were in the West and that we had to cross the station and go to the east. 

I was sure that we would get lost as we did on most of our trips. We headed to the east and asked the Tum Tum drivers. They said they would go, but the journey would cost us Rs. 400 one way. "Rs.400 one way, while the return ticket from Andheri to Karjat cost me Rs.60." I didn't want to spend Rs.400 and so we started to walk, hoping to get a rickshaw or ST bus taking us there.
View of the fields and hills in a distance

In 10 minutes time we were at the ST bus stand of Karjat. We asked the Bus Conductors and locals about Kalote Waterfall and they too looked at our faces. Strange isn't it. People in the West and East have never heard of the village we want to go to.    

Finally a ray of hope. A man told us that there is a village a Kalounte where there is a waterfall. So much for the pronunciation. That's the place where we wanted to go. He told us to board a bus to Chowk aka Chowk Phata and from there we will get a Tum Tum to Kalote Mokashi. The entrance to Kalote Mokashi is off NH4 on the way to Khopoli. Though we had crossed it while we went to Khopoli, but due to no signboard we missed it. 
Road leading to the waterfall

Tum Tum outside the station on the eastern side drop one to Chowk aka Chowk Phata at a cost of Rs. 15 and the ST bus charges Rs.13 for a ticket. From Chowk aka Chowk Phata board a bus or Tum Tum going to Khopoli. The Tum Tum ride cost us Rs.10 each.

The time was now 11 AM on my watch when he exited the Tum Tum. There is small tea stall at the entrance road of Kalote Mokashi. He inquired for directions and headed straight on the road. The road is not in very good state, it had pot holes, muck and small stones. Thanks to the rains that the condition of the road has deteriorated. No wonder the Tum Tum drivers were charging us Rs.400 to reach here. 
The bungalow surrounded by water

We decided to walk it out as that was the only way of reaching the waterfall. As it had rained a lot, greenery was all around us. Like I always say the color Green was so soothing to my eyes. We saw a small well near a water body, due to the algae in it the water body looked green. Crossed a couple of villages. I asked one of the local's the name of the village. To which she informed that all are Kalote. Strange as all of them have only one name. 

We then saw this beautiful bungalow surrounded by a lake. The entrance to the bungalow is via a bridge. I wouldn't mind staying in it  and sitting by the lake to catch some fish for lunch. Patience is the key to catch a fish. Look at this pic, ain't it amazing.

We then headed onto the road to reach the waterfall. I believe plots of land have been sold to build vacation homes, as new houses are being constructed on either side of the road. The approach road is bad. 
Children from the village posing for a photo

Finally after walking for about and hour's time we were at the waterfall. Note that there are no signboards here, again  we asked the locals and they guided us to the waterfall. This waterfall cannot be seen from the road. One has to walk in the stream to reach it. 

Now we were not the only ones there, a big fat goan family had also come there. Now you will want to know how they are goans, based on they way of speaking konkanni. There is no charge to see the waterfall like at Bhivpuri Waterfall (Umroli) and at Palasdhari. 

We immediately jumped into the icy cold water. The villagers had put up stones around the waterfall making it like a small swimming pool so that people are not washed away by the flow of the water. The water was around chest deep but the rocks below were uneven and slippery. 
Stream leading to the waterfall

On Dom request I sat below the waterfall. The force was so strong that I felt like someone was throwing stones on me. I couldn't sit there much longer and hence sat on the other side. There is also a small but less forceful waterfall happening,  

The sound of the waterfall was deafening. It just cut me off from the rest of the world. I sat there thinking about having bath below the natural waterfall instead of the shower in the bathroom. It will  have a problem once the rains are over. LOL.

There is no food and water available here.We had carried snacks and beverages, which we had. The waterfall surrounding was clean, and that's the way it needs to be. After spending a hour in the mesmerizing waterfall we decided to move on as we had to visit Vangani Waterfall too. 
Dom and me at the waterfall

The children of Kalote will approach and say "Paisa Do" meaning give money. 

Again we walked on the same muddy cum potholed cum stony road for an hour;s time to reach NH4, from where we got a Tum Tum to Chowk aka Chowk Phata. 

At Chowk Phata we met with one of the rickshaw drivers who had charged us Rs.400 to go there from Karjat. He was surprised and stunned to learn that we visited the waterfall and are back. It cost us just Rs. 46 (for two). I couldn't stop laughing from within when I saw the look on his face. 
Kalote waterfall aka dhabdhaba

We then boarded a ST bus to Karjat bus stand. 

Stay tuned to my blog to read about Vangani Waterfall.

Other waterfalls aka Dhabdhaba that I have covered are Chinchoti Waterfall, Jawahar Waterfall and Zenith Waterfall in Khopoli. 
↧

Vangani Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba at Vangani near Karjat

August 10, 2015, 8:15 pm
$
0
0
Vangani Waterfall is located at Vangani near Karjat. The closest rail station is Vangani on the central line on the way to Karjat apart from the road. It is off the Neral Badlapur Road. 
vada usal pav at Karjat

 After visiting Kalote Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba we had a quick lunch in the form of vada usal pav at Karjat. Now we had to kill time till 3:19 PM as the train to CST was to leave at that time. Like I said the train ply every hour to CST. The platform was crowded, luckily we managed to get a place to stand in the train. 
Greenery all around on the way to Vangani Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba
The crowd increased at very station, finally we alighted at Vangani, asked the station master for directions to the waterfall as we didn't want to waste any time. The time was now 3:55 PM on my watch. We stepped out on the eastern side and instead of taking the rickshaw decided to walk till the waterfall. Sharing auto rickshaw will cost you Rs.20 per seat and private will cost Rs. 40 per seat.

It had rained here, so the weather was gloomy, the sun had hid behind the clouds and refused to come out. Cool breeze was blowing and the trees were swaying in the wind. Greenery all around us. the trees , fields and hills in a distance were covered in different shades of green. I could see houses in a distance. I  would like to stay, in those houses, without a mobile phone and be cutoff from the rest of the world. 
Greenery all around on the way to Vangani Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba
The condition of the road was better than the one at Kalote Waterfall, but it was a rollercoaster ride to the waterfall. Finally after wallking for around an hours time we were at at Waterfall. Now there are a couple of waterfalls on the hill range. Out of which only one is accessable for the public. All the waterfalls can be seen from the road as we near them.

There is a cost of Rs.10 per head to visit the waterfall and you are given a receipt for the same.  Cheap way of making money by the locals. As we were entering the waterfall premises, crowd of people were exiting the same. So i knew we had the waterfall to ourselves. As per Dom the best time to visit the waterfall is in the evening, when there is less or no crowd at all. He was correct here.
Greenery all around on the way to Vangani Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba
We had to walk through ankle length water then climb down the hill to access the waterfall. The ankle lenght water which we crosssed then becomes the waterfall. It was small in comparison to Kalote. Again the villagers have put stones around it making it like a swimming pool with water gushing from the middle. Now the water was really cold, and i was finding it  difficult to get into it. Dom was all over the waterfall. After having light snacks and beverages I ventured in the waterfall. 

I didn't stand below the waterfall as the force of the water felt like someone was throwing stones on us.  The water was chest deep with uneven rocks at the base. 
Greenery all around on the way to Vangani Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba
Now it was almost 5:30 PM on my watch, the ticket vendors blew the whistle,  to inform that it will be dark soon and that we have to leave for the day. There is just one shop here that sells corn. No food and water is available, except the water running down the hills. 
Vangani Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba
We refreshed ourselves, got down and boarded a rickshaw at a cost of Rs.80 (for two) and headed to Vangani Station. We boarded the packed 6:52 PM CST local. Though the trip was tiring was we covered most of the places by foot and public transport, the waterfalls eased away the tiredness and stress, cooling our bodies.
That's me at Vangani Waterfall aka Dhabdhaba
Other waterfalls visited by me are Chinchoti , Jawahar  and Zenith . 

Soon I would be exploring Yeoor Waterfall and Vihigaon Waterfall, if you are interested in joining just ping me. Cheers. 
↧

Delhi : Arched Building in Mehrauli Archaeological Park

August 11, 2015, 9:22 pm
$
0
0
Arched Building is located in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, which is located near Qutub Complex on the Sri Aurobindo Marg, the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar. 

Arched Building

There are many small monuments in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, the best way to explore them is on foot. Though most of them are surrounded by bushes and wild growth, which sometimes makes it difficult to visit them. As these monuments are deserted it is advisable to go with friends for company. 

Not much information is available about the history of this monument apart from the signboard located near it. 
Arched Building
The monument in the first photo is totally in ruins, the stone used for the construction is scattered around it with wild growth around it for company. 

The arched doors in the second photo have been worked on and restored. The wild growth around it needs to be removed. This reminded me of the arched fort walls of Vasai Fort. Though the roof atop it is missing, but the walls have small square shaped openings on the inside, maybe it was used to hold the roof. 


↧

Delhi : Enclosed Tomb in Mehrauli Archaeological Park

August 12, 2015, 10:02 pm
$
0
0
 Enclosed Tomb is located in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, which is located near Qutub Complex on the Sri Aurobindo Marg, the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar. 
About the Enclosed Tomb

Enclosed Tomb

Remains of the Enclosed Tomb

There are many small monuments in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, the best way to explore them is on foot. Though most of them are surrounded by bushes and wild growth, which sometimes makes it difficult to visit them. As these monuments are deserted it is advisable to go with friends for company. 

Not much information is available about the history of this monument apart from the signboard located near it. Looking at the monument it appears that restoration work has been done on the monument. 
↧
↧

Delhi : British Agent Sir Thomas Metcalfe's Canopy

August 16, 2015, 8:05 pm
$
0
0
British Agent Sir Thomas Metcalfe's Canopy is located in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, which is located near Qutub Complex on the Sri Aurobindo Marg, the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar. 
Information on Metcalfe's Canopy

It is located near the Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb.
Metcalfe's Canopy
The Canopy aka Chatri is located atop a small hillock and offers a wonderful view of the Jamali Kamali Mosque and the Qutub Minar in a distance. The stone made Canopy is supported by six pillars which are sculptured. 
Qutub Minar from Metcalfe's Canopy
It felt good to rest here after walking for hour's in the hot sun. As it is on a height, feel refreshed with cool breeze. Not sure why it was placed here, in the middle of nowhere.
Jamali Kamali Mosque from Metcalfe's Canopy
We then headed over to see Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb.
↧

Delhi : Mughul Tomb in Mehrauli Archaeological Park

August 17, 2015, 9:31 pm
$
0
0
Mughul Tomb is located in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park which is near the Qutub Complex, it is located on the Sri Aurobindo Marg and the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar. 
Writeup on Mughul Tomb 

It is said that, it was built in the 18th century. Not sure who was buried here. 
Mughul Tomb
The tomb is square shaped with a dome atop it. The tomb premises it not maintained at all. There is no way to enter the tomb premises as the entire monument is caved in. It has vegetation growing all around it. 
↧
Search

Delhi : Balban's Tomb in Mehrauli Archaeological Park

August 18, 2015, 9:04 pm
$
0
0
Balban's Tomb is located in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park which is near the Qutub Complex, it is located on the Sri Aurobindo Marg and the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar.
Entrance to Balban's Tomb

History of Balban's Tomb

Ghiyas-ud-din Balban was the Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate. He was a reigned during the Mamluk Dynasty aka Slave Dynasty between 1266 AD and 1287 AD. He was born in the year 1206 AD.


Balban's Tomb premises


Balban's Tomb
Ghiyas-ud-din Balban was a fierce and strict administrator. He would not spare people who committed crimes, disobeyed laws. 
History of Balban's Tomb
After the demise of Ghiyas-ud-din Balban in 1287 AD, he was buried with royal honour at Mehrauli. The tomb and its premises are in ruins now. The tomb is open to the sky. 
↧

Delhi : Ruined Homes near Balban's Tomb in Mehrauli Archaeological Park

August 19, 2015, 7:56 pm
$
0
0
Ruined Homes near Balban's Tomb is located in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park which is near the Qutub Complex, it is located on the Sri Aurobindo Marg and the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar.
Balban Tomb

Ruined Homes near Balban's Tomb

Ruined Homes near Balban's Tomb 
Ruined Homes near Balban's Tomb

Ruined Homes near Balban's Tomb

Ruined Homes near Balban's Tomb

A couple of structures stand near the Tomb of Balban. All the structures are in ruins now. These were all built of stone. When I took a closer look at the stones, I understood that they have been reworked upon. None of them have roofs, some have just the walls covered with vegetation. In its hay days, these might have been used by the locals to stay. 
↧
↧

Delhi : Tomb of Khan Shahid in Mehrauli Archaeological Park

August 23, 2015, 8:16 pm
$
0
0
Tomb of Khan Shahid is located in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park which is near the Qutub Complex, it is located on the Sri Aurobindo Marg and the closest Metro station being Qutub Minar.
Entrance to the Tomb of Khan Shahid

Tomb of Khan Shahid


Khan Shahid was the son of Sultan Balban. He died while fighting the Mughals in 1285 AD.
Structure in Tomb premises
The entrance to the tomb premises is via this elevated platfrom. A series of steps leads to the entrance. By the looks of it, it was a rectangular structure, designed like a fort's wall. It houses the tomb of Khan Shahid and also a couple of other structures. As there is no sighboard, not sure as to what the other structures were. 
History of Tomb of Khan Shahid
The Tomb premises is deserted and completely in ruins. It has vegetation growing all over it. 
Structures in Tomb of Khan Shahid premises
It is said that this tomb was built for him, but he was buried in Balban's Tomb.
↧

Mandangad Fort aka Chitradurga Fort in Ratnagiri district in Maharashtra

September 30, 2015, 3:58 am
$
0
0

I had explored Alibag, Murud Janjira and Malvan on the coast of Maharashtra. But this time I wanted to explore the remaining beaches. We decided to explore Harnai Beach and its surroundings. 
View from atop Mandangad Fort
 After our successful Wai trip, I decided to do a overnight trip at Harnai too. BTW it is around 230 KM away from Mumbai so it is best to stay overnight here. 

I had planned the Light House at Kanak Durga, Fattegad, Goa Fort and Suvarnadurg at Harnai on Day 1 of our trip and Panhalekaji Caves and Unavare hot water springs on Day 2 of our trip on my itinerary. I shared the same with Manohar and Neha, who had accompanied me to Jawahar and Zenith Waterfalls and they agreed to accompany me. Three's Co. it was. 
Ganesh Temple atop Mandangad Fort
How do we travel was the question, Public transport i.e ST bus and Tum Tum or take the car. I was not in favor of taking the car along as Manohar would have to drive all the way, and the journey, was for sure tiresome for him. End of Day I had to give in and we decided to travel by car, when Neha told me that there is not proper transportation to take us to our destination in two days time. 
400 year old cannon atop Mandangad Fort
As decided we meet up at Ghatkopar Railway station on the Eastern Side and boarded the Swift to go to Harnai Beach. Now Harnai Beach is located around 230 KM away from Mumbai. So it would take us around 5 to 6 hours to reach there (taking into consideration breakfast and pullover breaks). 

Like always we switched on the GPS and followed instructions on Google Maps. We usually take the most trodden path not realizing that it can sometimes be the longest one. We exited out of Panvel, moved to Khopoli and then to Mangaon. 
View from atop Mandangad Fort
It is at Mangaon, that the itinerary changed after we was a signboard with distances to Mandangad, Harihareshwar and Shrivardhan. 

Neha told us that there are forts at Mandangad and Bankot, which are nearby. We immediately decided to visit them. As we love visiting forts. 
Artifacts atop Mandangad Fort
Switched of the unreliable GPS and started asking locals for directions to reach Mandangad in Ratnagiri district. ST depot in Mandangad is located in the market area from where buses and tum tum are available to travel around Mandangad.  Irrespective of the signboards we still decided to ask the locals to visit the Mandangad Fort as we didn't want to waste time nor waste fuel driving on wrong roads. 

We soon started climbing over the narrow and curvy roads surrounded with thick vegetation on either side. To reach the top. There is a white gate under lock and key. Car can't go inside but humans can.  
Road leading to Mandangad Fort
History states that Mandangad Fort aka Chitradurga Fort was captured by Shivaji from Adil Shah. 

The hill offers a wonderful view of the other hill ranges around us. The weather was just right, not sunny but breezy so it felt really good standing atop the hillock and seeing the narrow roads leading. to the top of the fort. 
Directions to Mandangad Fort from ST Bus Stand at Mandangad
Greenery was soothing to my eyes. Thanks to the rains that it is green all over. But it hasn't rained here in the last couple of days time. We were hoping rains on this trip :(

There is no fortification remaining on the fort. There is a Ganesh temple, a orange colored cannon which is said to be around 400 years old, two water tanks or ponds, a dilapidated house and a podium atop the fort. It took us around 30 minutes to explore the fort, we then headed off to have some lunch post that we were to explore Bankot Fort.  
Directions from Ghatkopar East to Mandangad ST Bus Stand
↧

Bankot Fort aka Himmatgad aka Victoria Fort in Ratnagiri district in Masharashtra

September 30, 2015, 3:50 am
$
0
0
Bankot Fort is located at the mouth of Bankot Creek, where River Savitri (which originated from Mahableshwar) meets the Arabian Sea. Bankot Fort is located in  Ratnagiri district in Maharashtra.  
Chicken Thali at Mandangad

 After having a spicy chicken thali at a local restaurant at Mandangad (market place near the ST bus stand) we decided to go visit the Bankot Fort. Here is a photo of the Chicken Thali. The Veg Thali photo is not available, as it is bad manners looking into other's food plate. LOL. 

The time was now 2:30 PM on my watch. We didn't want to waste any time travelling on the wrong roads so we decided to ask the locals for direction to reach the fort as fast as we can, as we had to board a ferry to cross over to visit Shrivardhan Beach. 
Entrance to Bankot Fort
Again the roads are not in the best condition, so one needs to drive slowly on the narrow roads. The roads offer a wonderful view of the hill ranges around. It took us around an hour's time to reach the Bankot Fort. One can reach by car to the entrance of the fort. So no climbing or trekking is needed here. 
Manohar, Neha and Me near Bankot Fort
The time was around 3:35 PM on my watch now. We decided to explore the fort. The fortification of the fort was intact. This is a very small fort in comparison to the many forts that I have seen. The Main Entrance or Maha Darwaza has two bastions surrounding it apart from other bastions. It also has a chor darwaza. We climbed over the walls of the fort to explore the fort from within and outside. 
Inside Bankot Fort
History doesn't mention as to who built Bankot Fort. But the fort has conquered by many. The latest rulers were the British who had named it Fort Victoria. They had conquered it from The Marathas, who had conquered it from the Portuguese and named it Himmatgad. The Portuguese had conquered it from Adil Shah.  
Fortification of Bankot Fort
Nothing much to see in the inside of the fort. There is a temple and water body. The entire fort can be surveyed in 20 minutes time. This fort might have been built as a watchtower offering a good defensive view of the creek, land and sea around.  
Shinning waters at Bankot
The fort offers a wonderful view of the Bankot Creek. As the sun was shinning, it appeared like the land was covered in a sheet of gold. Good I was wearing googles, else I would have been blinded with the glitter. 
Fortification at Bankot Fort
We then hurried away to the Bankot Jetty to board a ferry to cross the creek, to reach Shrivardhan Beach.  
Directions to Bankot Fort from Mandangad
↧
Viewing all 328 articles
Browse latest View live
Search