The Scenic Route

Our route took us along the M62, a motorway that cuts across the picturesque Pennine hills. The rolling landscapes and lush greenery made for a pleasant drive. As we passed through charming towns and villages, the anticipation grew. The two-hour journey felt much shorter, thanks to the stunning views and the smooth drive.

The Knowsley Safari Drive

Upon arriving at Knowsley Safari Park, we were greeted by friendly staff and a well-organized entrance process. We quickly collected our tickets and were provided with a map of the park, highlighting the various zones and attractions. The park is designed to offer a unique blend of drive-through safari experiences and walk-around animal exhibits, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the Knowsley Safari drive. Entering the large enclosure, we were immediately immersed in an environment teeming with wildlife. From the comfort of our car, we observed a wide array of animals, including majestic lions, playful baboons, and graceful giraffes. The animals roamed freely, often approaching vehicles, providing incredible photo opportunities and unforgettable memories.

Close Encounters and Thrilling Moments

One of the most thrilling moments was when a curious lioness decided to saunter right up to our car, peering through the window before sauntering away nonchalantly. The baboons were another source of amusement, as they showcased their acrobatic skills, leaping from car to car. The safari drive offered a perfect blend of excitement and awe-inspiring encounters with nature.

Exploring the Walkaround Area

After the drive, we parked our car and explored the walkaround area of the park. This section featured well-designed habitats for a variety of animals, including meerkats, sea lions, and birds of prey. The sea lion show was a particular favorite, with the talented creatures performing impressive tricks and engaging with the audience.

Family-Friendly Activities

Knowsley Safari Park is not just about animals; it also offers a range of family-friendly activities. We enjoyed a leisurely ride on the park’s miniature train, which provided a relaxing way to see more of the park. The children in our group were thrilled with the amusement rides and the play areas, ensuring that everyone had a fantastic time.

A Perfect Picnic Spot

For lunch, we headed to one of the designated picnic areas. Surrounded by nature, we enjoyed our packed meals while reflecting on the incredible experiences of the day. The picnic areas were well-maintained and provided a perfect spot to relax and recharge.

Wrapping Up the Day

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Leeds, filled with memories of a remarkable adventure. The drive back was filled with discussions about our favorite moments and the many fascinating animals we had encountered. The road trip to Knowsley Safari Park was a perfect blend of adventure, education, and family fun, making it a highly recommended outing for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Tips for a Great Trip

1. Start Early: Arriving early allows you to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the animals.
2. Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, water, and a picnic if you prefer not to purchase food at the park.
3. Camera Ready: Ensure your camera or smartphone is charged and ready to capture the incredible wildlife encounters.
4. Respect the Animals: Follow the park’s rules and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both visitors and animals.
5. Plan for All Weather: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as much of the experience is outdoors.

Embark on your own road trip to Knowsley Safari Park and create lasting memories with your family and friends. It’s an adventure that’s sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the beauty of the natural world.

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During British colonial rule, Varanasi became an epicentre of the Indian independence movement, with many leaders such as Madan Mohan Malviya and Jawaharlal Nehru hailing from the city. The city was also the site of the famous Non-Cooperation Movement of 1920-21, led by Mahatma Gandhi. In this article, we will explore the ten best places to visit in Varanasi.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important and revered Hindu temples in India. The temple is located in the heart of Varanasi and is surrounded by narrow alleys and bustling markets. The temple complex comprises several smaller temples and shrines, including the main shrine of Lord Shiva.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

This ghat is one of the most popular and busiest ghats in Varanasi, known for its evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. The Ganga Aarti is a ritual in which priests offer prayers to the river Ganges using lamps and incense sticks, creating a mesmerizing sight. Visitors can also take boat rides on the Ganges from this ghat. This is among the most popular places to visit in Varanasi.

Sarnath

Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and it is where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site comprises several ancient Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and temples, including the famous Dhamek Stupa and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.

Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat is a popular ghat on the river Ganges, known for its peaceful ambience and beautiful views. The ghat is surrounded by several temples and ashrams, and visitors can take boat rides on the river or simply relax and enjoy the views.

Ramnagar Fort

This 17th-century fort is located on the eastern bank of the Ganges and is a popular tourist attraction. The fort houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region, including a collection of vintage cars, weapons, and artefacts.

Manikarnika Ghat

This ghat is considered the holiest of all ghats in Varanasi and this is where Hindus come to cremate their dead. Visitors can observe the cremation rituals from a distance or take a boat ride on the river to get a closer view.

Also Read – Fatehpur Sikri: A unique blend of Islamic and Hindu culture

Tulsi Manas Temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. It is located in a serene setting and is surrounded by gardens and a small pond.

Banaras Hindu University

This is one of the largest residential universities in Asia and is known for its beautiful campus and academic excellence. The campus houses several museums, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the Jawahar Lal Nehru Museum.

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

This museum houses a collection of art, artefacts, and manuscripts from ancient and medieval India. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, textiles, and jewellery, as well as rare manuscripts and documents.

Chunar Fort

Located about 40 km from Varanasi, this fort is known for its historical significance and beautiful views of the Ganges. The fort has been associated with several famous rulers and dynasties, including the Mughals, the Guptas, and the British, and is an important landmark in the region.

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We started our journey from Delhi to Mussoorie early in the morning, and our first destination was Rishikesh, which is about 240 km from Delhi. The road to Rishikesh is smooth and well-maintained, and we made good time. The journey was scenic and we were treated to breathtaking views of the Shivalik Range.

As we approached Rishikesh, the road became narrower and winding, and we were surrounded by dense forests on both sides. The air became cooler and fresher, and we could feel the change in the atmosphere. Finally, we reached Rishikesh and were greeted by the sight of the Ganges flowing majestically through the town.

Also Read: Manali – Ultimate getaway for Delhiites to escape city heat

Delhi to Mussoorie: First stop at Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a spiritual town and is known as the Yoga Capital of the World. It is a place where people come to seek peace and solace. We visited many cafes and Lakshman Jhula which Rishikesh is famous for, and were struck by the serene and tranquil atmosphere of the place.

After spending a night in Rishikesh, we headed towards Mussoorie, which is about 77 km from Rishikesh. The road to Mussoorie was even more scenic than the one to Rishikesh. The winding roads took us through dense forests, and we were treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Delhi to Mussoorie: Reached the quaint hill station

Finally, we reached Mussoorie, which is a quaint hill station nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. The town is known for its natural beauty and is a popular tourist destination. We stayed at a hotel that was situated on a hilltop, and we were treated to spectacular views of the valley below.

We spent our days in Mussoorie exploring the town and the surrounding areas. We couldn’t visit Kempty Falls, which is a popular tourist spot. However, we went to a lesser-known George Everest Peak Trek and were treated to stunning views of the Himalayas.

Overall, the road trip from Delhi to Mussoorie via Rishikesh was an unforgettable experience. The journey took us through some of the most scenic landscapes of India, and we were treated to breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Rishikesh and Mussoorie are both beautiful destinations that are well worth visiting, and I would highly recommend this road trip to anyone who loves nature and adventure.

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History of Bara Imambara

Bara Imambara was built in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, the fourth Nawab of Awadh, to provide employment to the people during the severe famine that struck the region in the late 18th century. The construction of the monument took almost ten years and employed over 20,000 workers, including skilled artisans and labourers.

The monument was designed by Kifayatullah, an architect from Delhi, and is believed to be the largest arched structure in the world without any pillar support. The central hall of the Bara Imambara is 50 feet high and spans over 162 feet in length and 53 feet in width. The hall can accommodate more than 20,000 people at a time.

Also Read: Shatranj Ke Khilari (Chess Players) -1977

Relevance of Bara Imambara

Bara Imambara is not just a historical monument but also an important cultural landmark in Lucknow. It is a symbol of the city’s glorious past and a testament to the Nawabi culture that once thrived in the region. The monument is also a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors every year from across India and the world.

Apart from its architectural grandeur, Bara Imambara is also known for its unique labyrinth, Bhool Bhulaiya. The maze-like structure is believed to have been designed to confuse intruders and protect Nawab’s treasures. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can get lost in the maze and enjoy the thrill of finding their way out.

Also Read: Fatehpur Sikri: A unique blend of Islamic and Hindu Culture

Urban legends of Bara Imambara

Bara Imambara is also shrouded in urban legends and folklore, which add to its mystique and allure. One of the most popular legends associated with the monument is the story of the secret tunnels that are believed to run beneath the structure. According to local folklore, these tunnels were used by the Nawabs to escape in times of danger and also to smuggle their treasures.

Another legend associated with Bara Imambara is that of the missing fourth floor. According to the legend, Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula had originally planned to build a fourth floor on top of the monument, but he was advised against it by his chief architect. However, some people believe that the fourth floor was actually built, but it was later destroyed by the British during their rule in India.

Overall, Bara Imambara is not just a historical monument but a cultural symbol of Lucknow. Its grandeur and unique features make it a must-visit destination for tourists and history buffs alike. The urban legends associated with the monument only add to its mystique and make it all the more fascinating. A visit to Bara Imambara is a journey back in time and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India.

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Delhi

Delhi The first city on the Golden Triangle is Delhi, the capital of India. Delhi is a vibrant and bustling city that has been the center of power for many dynasties throughout history. The city is home to many monuments, museums, and parks that showcase its rich history and culture. Some of the must-visit attractions in Delhi include the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, India Gate, and Lotus Temple. The city also has a rich food culture, and travelers should try out the famous street food of Delhi, such as chaat, parathas, and kebabs.

Jaipur

The second city on the Golden Triangle is Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Jaipur is known as the Pink City due to the pink-colored walls that surround the old city. The city is famous for its palaces, forts, and vibrant markets. Some of the must-visit attractions in Jaipur include the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar. The city is also famous for its handicrafts, such as block-printed textiles, blue pottery, and jewelry. Travelers should also try out the famous Rajasthani cuisine, such as dal-bati-churma, laal maas, and ghevar.

Agra

The final city on the Golden Triangle is Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monument was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is a stunning example of Mughal architecture and is made of white marble with intricate inlay work. Other must-visit attractions in Agra include the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.

Overall, the Golden Triangle is an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience the diversity of India in a short period. The circuit includes the vibrant and bustling city of Delhi, the colorful and historic city of Jaipur, and the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. Each city has its unique attractions, culture, and food, making the Golden Triangle a memorable and fulfilling journey for any traveler.

How much will the trip cost?

The cost of visiting India’s Golden Triangle can vary depending on several factors, such as the duration of your trip, the level of accommodation you choose, the mode of transportation you use, the activities you participate in, and your personal spending habits.

On average, a 7-10 day trip to India’s Golden Triangle can cost between $800 to $1500 per person. This estimate includes accommodation, food, transportation, sightseeing tours, and other activities.

However, keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate, and the actual cost of your trip can vary depending on your individual preferences and choices. It is always a good idea to do some research, plan ahead, and consult with a travel agent or tour operator to get a more accurate estimate of the cost of your trip.

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History

The history of Fatehpur Sikri dates back to the late 16th century when Emperor Akbar was searching for a new capital for his empire. He chose the site of Fatehpur Sikri, which was situated on a rocky ridge overlooking the surrounding countryside, and began construction of the city in 1571. The city was completed in 1585, but it was abandoned just 14 years later due to a scarcity of water in the area.

Forts

The forts of Fatehpur Sikri are some of the most impressive examples of Mughal architecture in India. The most famous of these is the Buland Darwaza, a massive gate that stands at the entrance to the city. Built in 1575 to commemorate Akbar’s victory over the Deccan region, the Buland Darwaza is a magnificent structure that stands at a height of 40 meters. The gate is made of red sandstone and is decorated with intricate carvings and inscriptions.

Another impressive fort in Fatehpur Sikri is the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Built in 1571, the Jama Masjid is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, with its towering minarets and intricate marble carvings. The mosque is located in the center of the city and is still used for prayers today.

Also Read: A Bhutan Travelogue

Tourism

Fatehpur Sikri is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to explore the city’s rich history and culture. The city is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments, including the Buland Darwaza, the Jama Masjid, and the tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti.

One of the most popular activities for tourists in Fatehpur Sikri is to take a guided tour of the city. There are a number of tour operators in the area who offer guided tours of the city, providing visitors with a wealth of information about the city’s history, architecture, and culture.

Culture

Fatehpur Sikri is also known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The city is home to a number of traditional Mughlai restaurants, where visitors can sample authentic Mughlai cuisine, including kebabs, biryanis, and curries.

The city also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Urs of Sheikh Salim Chishti, which is celebrated every year in the month of Rajab. The festival attracts thousands of visitors from all over India, who come to pay their respects to the saint and to participate in the festivities.

Urban Legends

Like many ancient sites, Fatehpur Sikri has its fair share of urban legends and myths. One of the most popular legends is the story of the Panch Mahal. The Panch Mahal is a five-story palace located inside the Fatehpur Sikri complex. According to the legend, the palace was used by the Mughal emperor Akbar to house his wives and concubines. It is said that each of the five floors was designed for a different purpose, with the topmost floor being used for romantic rendezvous. However, the palace was abandoned after the emperor’s death, and it is said that the ghosts of Akbar’s wives still haunt the palace to this day.

Another famous urban legend associated with Fatehpur Sikri is the story of the Anarkali. Anarkali was a courtesan who was believed to have been entombed alive by the Mughal emperor Akbar for having an affair with his son, Prince Salim (later known as Emperor Jahangir). According to the legend, Anarkali’s tomb is located within the Fatehpur Sikri complex, and her spirit is said to wander the site at night. Visitors to the site have reported hearing strange noises and seeing apparitions, and many believe that Anarkali’s ghost still haunts the palace to this day. While there is no evidence to support the story of Anarkali, it remains one of the most enduring legends associated with Fatehpur Sikri.

In conclusion, Fatehpur Sikri is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Mughal history and culture. The city’s impressive forts, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Whether you’re a history buff or a culture enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Fatehpur Sikri.

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Why choose this city?

This medieval city is not just about history. There are plenty more reasons why you should visit.

• A day is enough! You probably won’t do everything that York has to offer. That’s why you can easily take a day trip and make the most of it.
• Easily accessible: There are plenty of buses and trains that go to York. We took an early bus from Leeds and it took us just about an hour to read York’s city centre. You could even choose to drive.
• You can walk around: The streets are very pedestrian-friendly. Whether you arrive at the train station or by bus, you can easily walk around the city and visit all the sights.

A day in York

We suggest that you begin your day early. This will give you a chance to enjoy the city without the crowds descending.

Walking through Shambles

Shambles is perhaps the most famous street in York. The legendary Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter films was modelled on Shambles.

You will find many Harry Potter-themed shops here, some with very clever names. Walking through Shambles will take you back to the Harry Potter universe. The open market area in Shambles is also a place where you can grab a quick coffee and breakfast before you go on to explore the rest of the city.

Visit York Minster

One of the most prominent buildings here is the York Minster Cathedral. The ‘Minster’ is the epitome of England’s incredible Gothic architecture. You can purchase a ticket to see the cathedral from the inside and also catch panoramic views of the city from the tower at York Minster.

We choose to admire it from the outside only and spent a lot of time in the cathedral’s garden.

Enjoy the buskers

Busking is big in England, but simply huge in this medieval city. You can see entire bands performing mini-concerts on the beautiful streets of York. The city’s vibe, coupled with the music everywhere, will make you just want to be outdoors to enjoy the weather and do nothing in particular.

Explore the museum gardens

York has many great museums to choose from.

• The Jorvik Viking Centre is all about the city’s rich Viking history. It is the must-visit place for anyone who is obsessed with all things Vikings.
• York’s Chocolate Story is a museum dedicated entirely to chocolate, its history, and its story.
• One of the free museums to visit is the National Railway Museum. It is a must-visit for all train aficionados.   
• York Art Gallery is another museum that you can choose to visit.

But the icing on the cake was the visit to the Museum Gardens outside the Art Gallery. We spent a considerable amount of time exploring the ruins around the gardens. If you are lucky to visit York on a sunny day, you can even have a picnic lunch in the beautiful gardens and easily spend a few hours here.

Walk on the city walls

The city walls are another major attraction. This activity is free and offers some amazing views of the city from various vantage points. You can access the wall from one of the access points and just take a stroll along the walls of the ancient city.

We would love to hear about your adventures in York in the comments section below. You can also read more about our life in England here.

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The hill station has a reputation as a backpacking center and honeymoon destination. Located along the Beas River, it’s a gateway for skiing in the Solang Valley and trekking in Parvati Valley. It’s also a jumping-off point for paragliding, rafting, and mountaineering in the Pir Panjal mountains.

How to reach Manali from Delhi?

The best and most cost-effective way to reach Manali is by road. It’s well connected to different places including Delhi (540 km), Chandigarh (305 km), Dehradun (227 km), and Ambala (370 km). There are several buses – government and private – that operate seven days a week round the year. However, the bus ride can take nearly 12 hours to reach Manali from Delhi.

The fastest way to reach the hill station is by flight to Bhuntar Airport, then take a cab to Manali which takes about 4 hours.

You can book a semi-sleeper AC bus here.

What are the main attractions in Manali?

Solang Valley

Solang Valley derives its name from a combination of the words – Solang and Nallah. The valley is located 14 km northwest of Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass. The Solang Valley is known for its summer and winter sports.

Avoid going to the Solang Valley in the summers as you will hardly see any snow there and it’ll appear like a dry and boring patch of land.

Beas River

Beas River is located in the heart of the Kullu Valley. It is popular for its camping spots and adventure activities. One can indulge in adventure sports such as river rafting, river crossing, etc. The length of the river is 470 km.

It is also a great source of the generation of electricity in India through hydroelectric power plants.

The age-old river is named Hyphasis in Greek, and Vipasha in Sanskrit. It flows through the two states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. It also marks the eastern border of Alexander the Great’s empire in 326 BC who was forced to stop his expedition here.

Van Vihar

Van Vihar, a municipal garden, is beautifully adorned by deodar trees. It’s a perfect place to spend a memorable time with loved ones. A number of locals and tourists visit the park to relax and get the fresh breeze of the Deodar trees. The peace and quiet you get here are truly remarkable.

The main attraction of the park is a beautiful man-made lake, situated in the middle of the woods. Tourists can enjoy boating on the lake.

There are also a lot of swings for the children as well as adults in the park. The River Beas runs very close to the park and you can hear it in the background as you stroll through the beautiful trails. If you visit the park in the evening, you will get a chance to enjoy the stunningly beautiful view of the sun setting against the glorious backdrop of the majestic mountains.

Vashisht Temple

The temple is located in Vashisht village near Manali and it’s famous for its sulfurous hot water spring, which is believed to have great healing powers. It is 2-kilometer away from the main market area of Manali and you can reach the parking area of the temple in 15 minutes by taxi/auto.

Touted as Sage Vashist’s place of meditation, the spring is said to have formed at the spot where Lakshman (from the Indian epic Ramayana) shot an arrow into the ground.

The Vashisht temple is believed to be more than 4000 years old. Inside the temple, there is a black stone image of the Rishi wearing a dhoti. It is decorated with excellent and beautiful carvings on wood.

Jogini Waterfall

Jogini Waterfall Trek starts from the sleepy town of Vashisht and is about 3 kms long. It’s a gentle walk through the forest with views of Rohtang and River Beas on your left side.

The trek route passes through a narrow lane by the side of the temple and it goes through apple orchids, tall pine trees small water streams. On the way, a few restaurants and guest houses are also available.

Hidimba Devi Temple

Hidimba Devi Temple is locally known as Dhungari Temple. It is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima, a figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata. The temple is built around a cave where Hidimba Devi performed meditation and lived with her brother Hidimb.

The temple is over 500 years old and was built by the royal family of Kullu, by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in the mid-1500s. It is one of the most revered temples in the Himalayas. An intricate four-story structure, the temple looks like a deserted cabin in the woods if there is nobody around.

Atal Tunnel

Atal Tunnel, named after former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is a highway tunnel built under the Rohtang Pass in the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas on the Leh-Manali Highway. The 9.02 km (5.6 mi) long tunnel is presently the world’s longest single-tube highway tunnel at an altitude above 3,000 m (10,000 ft).

Rohtang La

Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass on the eastern end of the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas around 51 km from Manali in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh, India.

The name Rohtang means ‘ground of corpses’ or ‘pile of dead bodies’ due to the number of people who lost their lives trying to cross it. It is one of the most scenic places in the Himalayas. However, one should go there during the off-season. Otherwise, be prepared for two to three hours of traffic jams.

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