Taj Mahal Agra - (North India)

The journey from Jaipur (JAIPUR LOVE CITY & VARANASI SACRED GANGES) to our destination was about five and a half hours, and I was glad to have the company of some lively ladies on this tour. With jokes and laughter filling the bus, time flew by until our first comfort break. These breaks can happen anywhere, often at roadside shops where a bathroom stop is a must. Here’s the thing: you have to brace yourself. Sometimes there's water, sometimes not, so always carry tissues. Out in the outskirts, you can't afford to fuss; no one’s going to hear you anyway.

For men in India, bathroom breaks are even more informal. They relieve themselves wherever they please, and it's a sight that's hard to miss. I'd seen enough in North India to know it wasn't just a South Indian phenomenon (MYSURU & CHENNAI) . At some sightseeing spots, the smell is impossible to avoid as you walk in.

Jaipur, Rajasthan - The Love City (North India)

My first day in Jaipur was heart-melting and soul-touching (JAIPUR: TIMELESS TRAVEL). The city, famously known as the Pink City, is renowned for its distinctive pink-colored buildings and architecture. This unique hue dates back to 1876 when Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh ordered the city to be painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). Pink, symbolizing hospitality, continues to dominate the old city's landscape, preserving its historic charm.

For me, Jaipur is the Love City. The day began with a visit to the Birla Mandir, also known as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple. Built by the Birla family in 1988, this modern architectural marvel is made entirely of pristine white marble and dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Nestled at the base of Moti Dungri Hill, the temple's intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, saints, philosophers, and historical figures (VARANASI: SACRED GANGES)

Jaipur, Rajasthan: Timeless Travel Magic

Bidding farewell to Varanasi (VARANASI SACRED GANGES) was a deeply sentimental moment for me; it's one of those places that etched a profound meaning into my soul. But reality dictates that we must move on, so from Varanasi Airport, we flew back to New Delhi, landing at the bustling Delhi Airport before heading to Hotel Sohi Residency for our one-night stay. I wish I had more positive things to say about this hotel, but when you’re informed that accommodations will be three-star, expectations are modest. While I am far from being a travel diva, the bedsheets, pillow covers, and blanket left me questioning the cleanliness. The one redeeming feature was the super clean bathroom, a small consolation.

Varanasi - North India: The Sacred Ganges

One more place to go for the day (VARANASI - EXPERIENCING SACREDNESS), and it’s said to be the best highlight: the Night Aarti at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple). Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the twelve holiest Jyotirlingas. Its golden spire stands out against Varanasi's skyline, symbolizing divine light. The night aarti, a revered ritual, draws devotees and tourists with its elaborate chants, hymns, and offerings, creating an atmosphere of profound devotion. Constructed in 1780 on the Ganges' western bank, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a key stop on Varanasi's Heritage Walk, attracting thousands to its nightly ceremony.

Varanasi - North India: The Gateway to Experiencing Sacredness

Having explored South India (CHENNAI & KODAIKANAL) before, this time my journey took me to North India. It was another solo trip, joining a tour group (COLOMBO & KANDY, SRI LANKA) organized by the same friend, though comprised of strangers. Despite the option to share a room and cut costs, I chose, as always, to pay extra for the privacy of my own room.

We arrived at Hotel Arch in New Delhi around 2 AM, greeted by the early winter chill. My room, though small, was clean and comfortable, including the bathroom. The next morning, breakfast was served before 7 AM, a thoughtful gesture despite the limited choices. The highlight was undoubtedly the Bru coffee, a beloved staple in any part of India, whether at street stalls or in hotels.

Myanmar - Across the Border From Mae Sai

A business trip to Chiang Rai turned into the adventure of a lifetime  (COLOMBO) when I decided to squeeze in a visit to Myanmar. With no plans, I found a tour company through my hotel and jumped at the chance to join two others on a trip to Tachileik, starting from Mae Sai in Chiang Rai.

The van arrived with my new travel buddies and our Thai lady guide, a humble and amazing soul. Thrilled to explore (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST), we headed to Mae Sai. After our guide handled the permits at the border, the real adventure began. The sun was blazing, but I didn’t care - I was too pumped. Crossing the border, I was hit by the raw energy of everyday life. People hustled about, street vendors manned their stalls, and no one gave us a second glance. Our guide filled us in on Tachileik and our stops (KOCHI KALEISCOPE). 

Tourist Places in Kochi, Kerala, India

UPDATED VERSION

Down to the last two days in Kochi (THINGS TO DO IN KOCHI), we spent our time visiting tourist spots, walking the streets, and taking in daily life. It was also a chance to see what Kochi had to offer in terms of local culture and lifestyle.

Kumbalangi Chinese Fishing Village

Kumbalangi, known as India’s first model tourism village, is famous for its “cheena vala” - Chinese fishing nets. Introduced by Chinese traders centuries ago, these nets still stand as a symbol of traditional fishing methods in Kerala. The area is calm, surrounded by backwaters, and gives a feel of how the local fishing community lives. We saw coir making and crab farming demonstrations. Most of the time, we were just standing around observing. Street vendors were around too, selling snacks and small items on the roadside (ALLEPPEY BOAT CRUISE).

Kochi/Cochin, Kerala, India: Things to Do

Approximately five hours on the road (TRIRUVANANTHAPURAM, KERALA) - including breaks and lunch - we reached Kochi. Also known as Cochin, it is a major port city on the southwest coast of India, in the state of Kerala. Kochi has been an important trading post for centuries, attracting traders from Europe, Arabia, and China. Its natural harbor gave it an advantage, and the result is a mix of cultural influences still visible today (ALLEPPEY BOAT CRUISE).

Dutch Palace/Mattancherry Palace

We started in Mattancherry. The area is a mix of old buildings, shops, and narrow streets. It’s a place for browsing  -  clothes, souvenirs, local snacks, and spices are available in small stores. One main attraction here is the Dutch Palace, also called Mattancherry Palace. It was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch before being handed over to the local ruler.

Kerala, India: Thiruvananthapuram Tourist Spots

It’s not over yet in THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/TRIVANDRUM, KERALA. There’s more to see, more to do. This part of our Kerala trip continued with a city tour, followed by key sightseeing stops -  the must-visit places and experiences in Thiruvananthapuram (THINGS TO DO IN GALLE, SRI LANKA).

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

One of the most iconic landmarks in Kerala, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a must-visit in Thiruvananthapuram. This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is famous for its ancient Dravidian architecture and spiritual significance. Built in the 18th century by Travancore Maharaja Marthanda Varma, the temple houses the deity in the unique "Anantha Shayanam" posture - reclining on the serpent Anantha.

Kerala Travel Guide - Thiruvananthapuram

From Alleppey (BOAT CRUISE IN ALLEPPEY) to Thiruvananthapuram, the journey led us to the vibrant capital city of Kerala. Known also as Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram sits at the southern tip of India, facing the vast Arabian Sea and boasting a stunning coastline. With a rich history as the former capital of the Kingdom of Travancore, this city offers travelers a unique mix of nature, culture, spirituality, and heritage - making it much more than just a typical tourist stop (COLOMBO SRI LANKA ATTRACTIONS).

Boat Cruise in Alleppey, Kerala, India

Updated in 2025

No trip or any trip to Kerala, India,  is complete without experiencing their houseboat cruise. It’s a must. Those who’ve done it will vouch it's one of the best things Kerala offers for your things to do in Kerala list or sightseeing in Kerala (COLOMBO SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING).

 

As for the three of us, this backwater tour in Kerala was already part of our Kerala travel itinerary, all necessary payment included. We opted for an overnight stay in a houseboat, which also included all meals. Ours was a two-room private houseboat, just for the three of us.

Hokkaido, Japan: Attractions and Sightseeing Guide

Back to Hokkaido, Japan (HOKKAIDO TRAVEL GUIDE) and sadly, winter and snowfall were severe, dropping to -0 degrees Celsius. Many things to do in Hokkaido during winter were halted due to heavy snowflakes blanketing everything, which also risked our flight back home being canceled (OTARU WHAT TO DO & SEE).

 

Best Tourist Sightseeing Spots in Hokkaido

Okurayama Viewing Point
It was definitely disappointing that our visit to Okurayama Viewing Point, the famous 1972 Winter Olympic Games ski jumping venue in Sapporo, was canceled. Okurayama Viewing Point is well known as a top Hokkaido sightseeing spot, where visitors can take a chairlift to the top for panoramic city views and the ski jump. There’s also a small museum showcasing winter sports history and ski jumping. It’s an interesting stop for both the view and winter sports enthusiasts. Unfortunately, it didn’t materialize for us.

Otaru, Hokkaido: What to Do and See

Updated Version

A day in Otaru, a charming port city on Hokkaido’s west coast, is all it takes to see why it draws visitors year-round, especially during winter (WHAT TO DO IN SAPPORO). Otaru’s roots date back to the late 19th century, when it thrived as a major trading and fishing hub. Today, it remains famous for its preserved architecture, scenic spots, and local delicacies.

 

We spent a full day in Otaru, quickly catching the highlights and popular attractions while also admiring from our coach (SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING).

What To Do In Sapporo, Japan: Winter Travel Guide

Updated Version

An appreciated winter holiday and the travel journey so far in Hokkaido, Japan. We still had two more destinations to cover. From Noboribetsu (THINGS TO DO IN NOBORIBETSU) we arrived in Sapporo. Winter had mellowed, making it more conducive to explore what Sapporo has to offer - especially for those wondering about things to do in Sapporo during winter.

 

This stop in Sapporo was part of our multi-day Hokkaido itinerary. It showed us that Hokkaido winter travel doesn’t feel complete without experiencing Sapporo (SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING SPOTS).

Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan: Things to Do

Updated Version

Located in southwestern Hokkaido (THINGS TO DO IN HOKKAIDO) and roughly a two-hour drive from Hilton Niseko Village, Noboribetsu is part of Iburi Subprefecture and sits within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Known for its volcanic activity and natural hot springs, this small town is a popular wellness destination. Snowy winters add a magical touch to its rugged terrain shaped by past eruptions. 

 

Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Village

This 25-year-old theme park recreates the Edo Period (1603–1867) - a significant era in Japanese history. Though often linked with Emperor Meiji, the Edo era actually preceded his reign and was defined by samurai rule under the Tokugawa Shogunate, before Japan began modernizing (NUWARA ELIYA SRI LANKA).

Things To Do in Hokkaido, Japan (Winter)

Updated Version

Winter is the season that draws travellers to Hokkaido, Japan - and for good reason (HOKKAIDO TRAVEL GUIDE). While destinations like Kyoto, Osaka, Nagano, Yuzawa, and Nozawaonsen also boast winter charm, Hokkaido stands out as one of the top spots for snow-filled adventures. From thrilling snow activities to comforting local cuisine, here’s a closer look at what makes a Hokkaido winter experience truly special (THINGS TO DO IN GALLE, SRI LANKA).

 

Snow Activities in Hokkaido

Winter in Hokkaido is synonymous with snow adventures. While skiing is a popular choice among visitors, snowmobiling offers an equally exciting alternative. Near Hilton Niseko Village, a designated area offers snowmobile rides suitable for beginners and thrill-seekers alike.