Karnataka

Ramalingeshwara Temple complex

Exploring the Ramalingeswara Temple

Today we go to explore a Shiva temple raised to cleanse the sins of Rama and his brothers. The Avani village forms an intricate part of the story of Ramayana, as the birthplace of Luv & Kush. The shivalings at the Ramalingeshwara Temple here is said to be established by the Ayodhya princes themselves to absolve them of their sins of waging war against the twin adolescents.

Vitthala Temple in Hampi

Heritage walk to Vittala Temple

Today I go on a heritage walk to the majestic Vittala Temple, dedicated to Vitthala, the South India name of Vishnu. Built around the 15th Century CE, and expanded several times by succeeding kings of the Vijaynagar empire with the most extravagant architecture and exceptional craftsmanship, the temple is the main attraction of Hampi.

Anegundi

The Monkey Kingdom of Kishkindha

Today I went to explore the quiet town of Anegundi. As per the legend of Ramayana, the city used to be known as Kishkindha where Bali and Sugreeva, the monkey kings used to rule. The monkeys though have been driven away by the growing number of foreign tourists and it is just the mystifying boulders that remain to tell us the story of what was once a strange but interesting kingdom.

Gokarna Beach Trek

Gokarna Beach Trek

This weekend I head out on a trek to the rocky cliffs along the coastline of Gokarna. The trek covers four of the most gorgeous beaches located to the south of Gokarna starting from the southern-most Paradise Beach and moving northwards towards Half Moon Beach, Om Beach, Kuddle Beach and finally ending at Gokarna Beach.

Navabrindavan

Drive to Anegundi

On a drive to the legendary city of Kishkinda, the birthplace of Hanuman, I discover the Aanjaneya Temple, Pampa Sarovar, Durga Temple and the beautiful temple of Nava Brindavan each with its own amazing story.

The lost city of Hampi

The lost city of Hampi

Hampi is an ancient city on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. It used to be the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire where music, art and sculpture flourished. Join me on an exploration of over 300 exquisitely designed stone temples and ruined palaces of a vanished civilization.

Kuntibetta Night Trek

Night Trek to Kunti Betta

Kunti Betta consists of two rocky but easy to climb hills that towers over a picturesque lake. It is said the Pandavas ended their exile of 14 years here in Pandavapura. Night Trek offers a unique experience from the hilltop with the Moon shining over the lake.