Back to India,
this time to explore Shimla and Chandigarh. On another solo trip, I joined a
tour group with a mix of familiar faces, and new acquaintances for a 7-day,
6-night adventure. The journey began in New Delhi, where I finally hit the bed
in my room past 1 AM. By 8:30 AM the next morning, we were on our way to
Shimla, embarking on an almost 10-hour road journey. Leaving New Delhi on a
busy Saturday, we faced peak weekend traffic, taking at least an hour to get
onto the roads leading to Shimla. (
HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST &
GALLE SPOTS).
About two
and a half hours later, we stopped for a comfort break at Mama Yadav, Shiva
Dhaba in Babugarh, Uttar Pradesh, which was bustling with people. After a quick
visit to the loo, I opted for a fresh, hot tea in a clay cup instead of sitting
down to eat. The experience of watching the tea being poured into the clay pot
made me grin, and the taste was delightful, transporting me to an ancient time
Unable to resist, I also indulged in some Paan. I have a true weakness for
Paan, not just for the traditional variety but for the modern Paan, which has
evolved to include innovative ingredients like chocolate, fruit syrups, and
even ice cream, making it a trendy and versatile treat. It's such a delight,
and if you come this far and don’t try Paan, what a waste.
Continuing
our journey, we reached Jyotisar Temple in the Kurukshetra district of Uttar
Pradesh, renowned as the site where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita to
Arjuna, a pivotal moment in the Mahabharata epic. Surrounded by tranquil
landscapes and featuring a sacred Banyan tree where the divine discourse is
believed to have occurred, the temple also includes a marble chariot
symbolizing Krishna and Arjuna's conversation.
Having
studied the Bhagavad Gita extensively, I felt a deep connection to the profound
teachings shared in this sacred place. The dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna,
addressing duty, righteousness, and life's essence, resonated profoundly as I
explored the temple grounds, prayed, and sat beneath the Banyan tree.
Reflecting on my visit, Jyotisar Temple not only provided a spiritual
experience but also prompted introspection on the principles that Hindus
cherish and strive to embody.
Next, we
visited Bhishma Kund in Narkatari, Haryana, a site steeped in historical and
religious significance from the Mahabharata. Legend has it that this is where
Arjuna pierced the earth with an arrow to provide water for Bhishma Pitamah,
who lay wounded on a bed of arrows during the Kurukshetra battle. The sacred
water body formed by Arjuna's arrow symbolizes the profound respect and bond
between these legendary warriors. For me, as someone deeply fascinated by the
Mahabharata, experiencing the history of Bhishma Kund in Narkatari was truly
meaningful.
Stopping for
lunch at Mannat Haveli in Haryana, the bustling atmosphere saw our group
eagerly ordering food. I opted for "Raj Kachori," a popular Indian
chaat consisting of a crispy fried shell filled with potatoes, boiled moong
dal, yogurt, spices, and chutney - a hearty and flavorful choice. Arriving at
our Shimla hotel around 10 PM, I decided to skip dinner, mindful of the
late-night meals that often accompany travel and lead to unwanted weight gain.
Retreating to my room, I unpacked, showered, and called it a night.
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