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Temples of Chiang Mai: Beyond Tourist Trails – Part 2
Here is the second part of our 2 part blog on the temples of Chiang Mai. Read the first part here. Wat Sri Suphan Wat Sri Suphan is the ‘Silver Temple’ Of Chiang Mai. Over two centuries ago, silversmiths from Burma’s Kengtung area settled in the nearby Wua Lai area. Today, this neighbourhood continues to showcase the remarkable talents of silversmiths and lacquerware artists. In 1500 CE, King Mueangkaew commissioned the original wihan. The ordination hall (Ubosot) and chedi were added nine years later. The wihan and chedi underwent two major reconstructions: first between 1860-1863 CE under Kawilorot Suriyawong’s reign, and again in 1993 CE, both to repair the ravages…
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Temples of Chiang Mai: Beyond Tourist Trails – Part 1
Chiang Mai is a city steeped in spirituality and tradition. While we did see glistening golden chedis, it was the intricately carved wooden structures that we were mesmerized by. These structures actually offered a glimpse into Thailand’s rich history and deep-rooted faith. Our journey through the temples of Chiang Mai temples was a profound experience and made us love Chiang Mai even more. Thai Buddhist temple architecture In Thai, the word for temple is “Wat.” Thai Buddhist temple architecture features several signature elements that make these structures both unique and fascinating: Beyond these primary elements, you might find additional structures in Chiang Mai, that add to the temple’s charm and…
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Ayutthaya – Whispers of Yesteryears – Part 2
This is the second part of our blog on Ayutthaya. If you haven’t caught up on the first part yet, head over here. Read first part of our Ayutthaya journey here. After the idyllic time at Wat Lokkayasutha and Wat Worachettharam, it was time for us to visit the central complex of monuments, collectively called the Ayutthaya Historic Park. Wat Phra Ram Our first stop was Wat Phra Ram. This is a monastery constructed on the cremation site of King Ramathibodi I, the founder and first ruler of the Ayutthaya kingdom. Entry to the monument costs 50 THB per person and is free for Thai citizens and children. The monument is open from 8:00 AM until…
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Ayutthaya – Whispers of Yesteryears – Part 1
Ayutthaya, a radiant kingdom in Southeast Asia, thrived for over 400 years. Ayutthaya’s rulers fostered art, engineering marvels, and a strong military. The last king, a solitary figure, witnessed his legacy turn to ash. Ayutthaya’s fall echoed a harsh truth: empires crumble, leaving only a smoky lesson for all to see. Join us on a captivating journey through Ayutthaya, where we’ll delve into its glorious past and contemplate the impermanence of even the mightiest empires. Ever since we planned a trip to Thailand, Ayutthaya remained a constant in our itinerary, amidst other changes to plans. So, we pored over Google Maps and other references to figure out a path that…
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Discovering Gopachal and Siddhachal Caves: Rock Cut Jain Temples of Gwalior
We visited a group of rock cut Jain monuments on the hill sides atop which sits the Gwalior Fort. The monuments find mention in the reports of Alexander Cunningham, who later went on to found the Archaeological Survey of India. Siddhachal Parvat – Cluster 1 We visited the Siddhachal Parvat first. This group of monuments are located near the Urvai road, near the Teli Ka Mandir within the Gwalior fort. The first series of monuments that come into view are a pavillion of 5 Tirthankars recessed into twin alcoves the hill side with 2 moreTtirthankars standing on the outside walls. No surface is left unadorned without carvings and there are…
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Stairway to Wonder: Exploring Rani Ki Vav
Rani ki Vav had been in our bucket list for a few years now. Not only because it is an UNESCO heritage site, but also because, the concept of a step well was truly intriguing. All we knew was we wanted to see this place but did not know much about its history. Unlike many of our other trips where we read up on the place we plan to visit, that month being crazy busy on the work front, we really did not get to it. We visited Ahmedabad in the winter of 2023. Based on the reviews, we chose a day in the start of the wee. This was…
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Unveiling Udaipur: Your Perfect 3-Day Itinerary (with images)
Our second trip to the desert state of Rajasthan was in 2023 and this time it was Udaipur. We were eagerly awaiting our trip to the city of lakes. Day 1 Ahar museum The first stop of the day was the Ahar Cenotaphs and Museum. The Ahar cenotaphs are a group of about 250 cenotaphs and about 19 chhatris (dome shaped pavilions) that serve as memorials for the rulers who were cremated here. We were eagerly anticipating our visit to these cenotaphs. Following the tranquil experience we enjoyed a year ago at Maharaniyon ki Chatriyaan in Jaipur, we were hopeful of recreating those moments here. Unfortunately, we learnt after reaching…
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Chobimura: Tripura’s Mystical Rock Carvings
Our trip to Tripura in the balmy days of April 2023 showed us a surprising glimpse of the cultural richness and natural splendor that the Northeast India has to offer. Agartala, the capital of the state, served as our springboard for a riveting day trip to Chobimura, a hidden valley nestled along the Gomti river. This secluded enclave is renowned for its exceptional relief carvings that adorn the cliffside—an artistic marvel affectionately known as Devtamura, or the hill of the gods. Boat ride through the pristine river We embarked on a motorboat journey offered by a unique self-help group. Comprising former insurgents who had transitioned from conflict to becoming custodians…
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Kakochang Waterfall – Nature’s symphony in your Assam itinerary
In the heart of Assam’s Karbi Anglong district, our April 2023 escapade led us to the captivating Kakochang waterfall, an oasis of natural beauty nestled within the embrace of pristine landscapes. This journey as part of our Assam itinerary unfolded as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between the local community and the breathtaking environment they call home. Read our complete Assam Itinerary here. Getting there Known locally as the Kaipholangso waterfall, this natural wonder encapsulates not only the scenic beauty of the region but also the resilient spirit of the community that calls it home. Our adventure commenced with a picturesque drive along village roads, winding through a tapestry…
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Immersive Agra: 3-Day Agra Itinerary for an Unmatched Experience
We finally scratched Agra off our travel list after years of putting it off. The Taj Mahal, a landmark we couldn’t ignore any longer in the land of India, became the perfect excuse for an anniversary getaway. Off to Agra we went. So here’s our Agra itinerary! Day 1 of Agra itinerary The Taj Mahal Getting there Our trip started with a visit to the Taj Mahal. We booked our tickets online and got to the East Gate entrance. Other things to note Both tickets allow one to remain inside the Taj for a maximum of 3 hours after which additional charges would apply. In the Taj as well, as…
