Friday, 5 December 2025

Anniversary Travelogue

4th December – Our Special Anniversary Travelogue

Our 37th Anniversary arrived quietly, as dawn followed a celebration from the previous night — we cut the cake a little early since the 4th was Dutt Jayanti and we were observing a fast.

Leaving behind the freezing charm of Dalhousie — where the night dipped to 0°C — we set out early at 2°C towards Dharamshala & McLeodganj. The winding, twisty roads felt like a jolt back to reality after the calm of the hills. But the moment we checked into WH Natraj Hotel, a wave of comfort and relief washed over us.

Our day unfolded beautifully as we explored the highlights of Dharamshala & McLeodganj:
-Naddi View Point a picturesque spot, offering panoramic views of the snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges, lush valleys, and spectacular sunsets.(Which we however saw from our Hotel)
-Dalai Lama Temple — serene and spiritually uplifting
-Bhagsu Naag Temple — a moment for devotion
-Bhagsu Waterfall — Steep Climb 
-Mall Road — lively strolls and local flavors , Coffee and Finger Chips.

As the sun dipped behind the mountains, painting the sky in gold, we wrapped up our anniversary with warmth in our hearts and peace in our souls.

Mini Switzerland

Pre–Anniversary Diary: Mini Switzerland, Dalhousie

As we stand at the doorstep of our 37th Anniversary, we chose to escape into the calm embrace of Dalhousie — to a place fondly known as Mini Switzerland. And truly, the name doesn’t disappoint.
Surrounded by lush meadows, rolling pine forests, and the majestic Dhauladhar Himalayan ranges watching over us, it feels like nature itself is celebrating our journey. The cool breeze carries a quiet joy, the skies seem a little brighter, and every moment here feels like a warm reminder of the road we've traveled together — filled with love, challenges, growth, and countless memories.
Walking hand in hand through this serene paradise, we are reminded that anniversaries are not just about counting years… they’re about cherishing every step, every laugh, every shared dream, and every sunrise we witnessed side by side.
Mini Switzerland has given us the perfect pause — a moment to look back with gratitude and look ahead with hope. Tomorrow marks 37 years of togetherness… but today, this beautiful landscape has gifted us a gentle whisper:

“The best views are always on the journey, not just the destination.”

Waiting for tomorrow..

Monday, 1 December 2025

Travelogue Amritsar

Phase 2
A Journey Through History and Faith – Amritsar Travelogue

After a long and delayed flight from Bhopal  through Delhi and onward to Amritsar, we finally set foot in the sacred city yesterday late in the evening. The fatigue of travel melted away the moment we decided to skip the hotel check-in and head straight to the heart and soul of Amritsar — the Golden Temple.
Bathed in shimmering gold, its reflection dancing over the still waters of the Sarovar, the Harmandir Sahib stood like a vision from a dream. Words felt too small to capture the serenity and grandeur that enveloped us there. The soft hymns, the gentle glow of the temple against the night sky, and the spirit of devotion in the air made the moment unforgettable.
Once over we checked in and hunger nudged us into reality — and what better welcome to Punjab than an authentic Punjabi meal ( well it wasn't exactly that but when hungry anything goes)! This morning, we continued our culinary love affair with an authentic Amritsari breakfast.

Our next stop brought a stark shift in emotion. At Jallianwala Bagh, we stood on the very soil that witnessed one of the darkest chapters of India’s freedom struggle. The memorial stands today as a reminder of the unarmed civilians who faced the brutality of General Dyer’s troops on April 13, 1919. The silence in the garden carries a thousand voices — of courage, loss, and resilience. It was a moment of reflection, a reminder of sacrifices etched deep into the pages of history.

From there, the city’s vibrant spirit resurfaced as we strolled through the bustling lanes of the local Punjabi suits markets — a paradise for shoppers and a mandatory stop for all wives, mine being no exception! The colors, the fabrics, and also the Amritsari Spices.
With memories of devotion, history, and hearty food packed in our bags, we now move forward to the next phase of our journey — grateful, fulfilled, and excited for what lies ahead.