Muir Woods - Ultimate Weekend Escape from City

Muir Woods National Monument is the first significant place to be created solely as a consequence of a private land grant. This was done in order to protect redwoods, some of which are over 150 years old, from logging. Hike through the towering redwoods to understand why John Muir was such a staunch supporter of the preservation of America's most sacred places.

Entrance. Picture credit: Ravindra Joisa

In the national park, there are limitless opportunities to learn and explore, from hiking to stargazing to uncovering ancient cultures. Also, the air was fresh and clean thanks to the enormous redwood trees and rich, green vegetation. I would recommend arriving early in the morning to escape the throng for the soothing and mystical sounds of nature. Moreover, the enormous redwoods towered over us, magnificent and majestic.

The Muir Woods National Monument is an old-growth coastal redwood forest, just in case you have this question in mind - Is Muir Woods the same as the redwood forest? The Bohemian and Cathedral groves contain the biggest trees – one 252 feet tall and one 14 feet wide.

How to get to Muir Woods

Muir Woods is a few miles to the north of San Fransisco, just after crossing the famous golden gate bridge. You can reach this place early morning if you have plans to visit Napa Valley, famous for some of America's vineyards.

I would recommend you to travel to this location using your own private vehicle or with a tour operator. Technically speaking, you can make use of cab services like Uber or Lyft as it is about 16 miles from Golden Gate, but returning from this place will be hard. There is no Wifi or mobile signal, so booking a cab won't be easy. Note that there is an entry fee of $ 15 for 16 years old and above.

You can't drive through Muir Woods, renting a car isn't a good idea. Because there are a limited amount of parking places at the entrance, you must book and pay for a spot ahead of time.

Tall redwood trees. Picture Credit: Ravindra Joisa

Weather and Camping

Muir Woods, like the rest of the Pacific Coast, is known for its pleasant weather. Temperatures in the forest vary from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius most of the year, making it the ideal weekend getaway. Although camping is not permitted within the park, there are numerous choices in the surrounding region. Hikers seeking seclusion in a redwood forest will find this place to be an ideal refuge.

Empty trail early in the morning. Picture: Ravindra Joisa

How long does it take to walk through Muir Woods?

The enormous old-growth redwood trees are well-known. Trails go to Cathedral Grove and Bohemian Grove, as well as along Redwood Creek. The Ben Johnson and Dipsea paths in Mount Tamalpais State Park climb a slope for views of the treetops, the Pacific Ocean, and Mount Tamalpais. There are 6 kilometers of trails in this National Monument. There are 30-minute, 60-minute, and 90-minute loops available, as well as longer treks on trails that stretch into Mount Tamalpais State Park. View a map of Muir Woods and the surrounding area. All of these hikes have vistas of ancient redwoods, the world's tallest living objects.

Hiking Trail. Picture Credit: Ravindra Joisa

Also read: Canyon Trail – River Place Nature Trail, Austin, TX

So, Is Muir Woods worth visiting? A trip to Muir Woods is definitely worth your time, especially if you won't be able to see redwood trees otherwise. The site is rather simple to navigate. Also, check out the video from Muirwood redwood forest to get an idea of how it feels to be there. In addition, support my work by subscribing to my YouTube channel.

https://youtu.be/X2j_for7qnc

Kanamo Peak Trek - 19,553 ft | Intriguing Summit Climb Attempt

It was time for the summit hike to Kanamo Peak, which stands at 19,600 feet, after spending a day in Kanamo Basecamp. Even though the weather had been awful the day before, it seemed to be fine on the summit day, and our trip leader gave us the go-ahead.
Also check: Hike from Kibber village to Mount Kanamo Basecamp

Kanamo Peak standing tall at 19,600 feet above sea level, Kibber, Himachal, India

The terrain along the Kanamo Peak trail

This hill has a steep grade, and many people develop high altitude sickness if they are not well equipped. It is also a continuous rise to the summit, with the final seven hours consisting of a nearly vertical slope on a steep inclination entirely on scree. As there is no option to camp anywhere in between, you will have to descent back to Kanamo Basecamp which will take around 3 hours, provided everything goes as per the plan. Note that there is no water source anywhere around and the nearest water source is at Kanamo Basecamp. A proper cold weather jacket is a must at this altitude since the early morning breeze is ice cold.

The landscape around Kanamo Peak

Wildlife and fossile

The summit attempt starts as early as 3-4 AM. Early in the morning, you traverse the first section of the mountain. Keep an eye out for distant mountain ranges and the sky's ever-changing golden hour colors. On the way up we could see the Wild Himalayan Yak and the Himalayan Ibex. In rare cases, you might even find Himalayan snow leopards. There are tours organized by the locals, a visit to the Kibber wildlife sanctuary during winter in the month of March.

Himalayan Yak

Buy Himalayan Yak Images from my store to support my work - 'Store'

Look for fascinating stones in this section as you go on since many of them are likely to be plant or animal fossils. There are several fossil repositories that can be found. Here is what we found - check the video below, whale and fish fossils and a few shells up in the Himalayan mountains, which were once undersea.

Himalayan Ibex

High Altitude Sickness

We were soon on our way to the mountain's second section. The last stage of the climb to Kanamo Peak, a hard rise of around 70-80 degrees on the scree slopes – takes about 4 to 5 hours. From here, the entire ascent is on scree. This is where I could no longer climb and could clearly see the signs of altitude sickness. Only a few could make it to the summit. I could hardly see anything around and had to almost get our trek lead's support to stand still.

Chicham village in the background & that's me on the way back from Kanamo Peak

Altitude sickness is dangerous and can even cause death. I did not want to take any kind of risk. I can clearly see that most of us were not acclimatized and almost half the team had the same trouble. We were now close to 18000 feet. I could hardly capture any photos here and my only aim at this time was not the summit but to get back to a lower altitude in order to recover from the altitude sickness.

Wildflowers on the way to Kanamo Peak

I finally managed to get back to KBC and spent the evening inside my tent lying still. I recovered the next morning and resumed my journey to Kibber village the following day. From here we explored the scary super adventurous ropeway ride across Parilungbo Canyon, on the way to Chicham in Spiti Valley. As of this writing, this ropeway is now replaced with a bridge, which was under construction when I visited the place. This bridge is now completed, which is the tallest bridge in Asia at 13,596 feet high.

https://youtu.be/QrSZgGiw7fc

That was my story of an attempt to climb the Kanamo Summit which is almost 70% the height of Everest. By the way, while hiking, I had come across a few who opted for Kanamo Peak trek Solo. You may hire a local guide who can also cook for you and the trek can be completed in 2 days if you are acclimatized. Hope you enjoyed watching the video. By the way, here is the camera gear that I take along when I travel. Support my work by SUBSCRIBING to my Youtube channel.

Hawa Mahal Jaipur - Stupendous and unique architectural design

The Hawa Mahal Jaipur, popularly known as the 'Palace of Winds,' is a renowned tourist destination and prominent monument in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. The place is located in the heart of Jaipur’s gorgeous Pink City. It is also well-known for its rich cultural and architectural legacy. A brilliantly decorated façade mimics the honeycomb of a beehive, evoking the Rajputs' illustrious heritage. You might also be interested in reading more stories from Jaipur, the Pink City.

Hawa Mahal Jaipur at night

Hawa Mahal Jaipur

Our next stop is Hawa Mahal Jaipur, the palace of breeze. The rear view, which you can see from the main road, is the most stunning. The palace sits on the edge of the City Palace. Who built Hawa Mahal? - The structure is of 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, who was the founder of Jaipur. Lal Chand Ustad is the designer. Keep your camera ready when you approach the courtyard of the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur to snap the massive fountain. To capture the broad architecture, I recommend bringing a wide-angle lens. There are also many chambers with numerous antique items.

Inside Hawa Mahal, Jaipur, India

Architecture of Hawa Mahal Jaipur

Why Hawa Mahal is famous? and Why is it called Hawa Mahal? - Hawa Mahal 'The Palace of Winds' or 'The Palace of Breeze' is a palace in Jaipur, India built from red and pink sandstone. Firstly, the Mahal has 953 Jharokhas (Hawa Mahal windows) that are adorned with exquisite latticework. Secondly, the building's five-story facade resembles a honeycomb.

Fountain at Hawa Mahal

What is the story of Hawa Mahal? and Why Hawa Mahal was built? - This architectural element allowed for the passage of cold air, making the entire space more pleasant during the hot desert summer months. The lattice design was originally intended to allow royal women to view daily life and festivities on the street below without being observed by the general public. We'll look around the architecture and come back at night to view the Hawa Mahal Jaipur lit by a sodium bulb.

Can you go inside Hawa Mahal?

Ancient Artifacts at Hawa Mahal

Yes, you can. There is an entry ticket of Rs. 50. The Hawa Mahal palace is built on five stories, each with a different designed room. Inside the main palace, you are greeted by a lovely fountain, from which you may ascend to the various stories. The palace's roof gives a spectacular view of the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Amer Fort, and the ever-busy Siredeori Bazar. There is also a tiny museum with some valuable antiquities and miniature artworks.

https://youtu.be/OlxhrsNaPsU

Thikana Mandir

Another place that is a short distance from Hawa Mahal is the 18th century (Thikana Mandir Shri Govinddevji Maharaj) Lord Krishna temple. For worshippers, this Vaishnav temple is one of the most important and significant temples. According to tradition, Lord Krishna's picture at this temple is identical to Krishna's shape during his Earthly incarnation. In addition, during the festival season, expect a larger throng at this temple, so go early in the morning.

Thikana Mandir Jaipur.

Albert Hall Museum

Albert Hall Museum Jaipur, in the evening.

From here we go to the Albert Hall Museum. What is special in Albert Hall Museum? - The museum's collection of relics includes paintings, jewelry, rugs, ivory, stone, metal sculptures, and crystal works. Coins from the Gupta, Kushan, Delhi Sultanate, Mughal, and British eras are included in the collection. The major feature of this museum is an Egyptian mummy. If you stay back late in the evening, you get to see the Albert Hall Museum illuminated with pink, blue, and purple lights.

Hotels in Jaipur

Finding a stay in Jaipur isn't that hard. Jaipur features some of the most magnificent hotels, some of which are located in the midst of the lake and have stunning views of the fort and the pink city. If you are traveling solo and on a budget, you may wish to stay in hostels, which range in price from 500 to 1000 rupees depending on the season. Hotels in Jaipur provide a variety of services such as airport pick-up, city tours, and the ability to reserve self-drive vehicles or car rentals or bikes for little to no extra price. Winter might be the best time to visit, as summer can be extremely hot.

Other places to visit in Jaipur

• Jaipur Monkey Temple | Sisodia Rani ka Bagh

• Jaipur Amer fort | Amber Palace | Sheesh Mahal Jaipur

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Jaipur Amer Fort - An Extraordinary Hilltop architectural marvel

In the Pink City of Jaipur, on top of Aravali Hill lies the Jaipur Amer Fort. It is also known as Amber Palace and is located around 11 kilometers from Jaipur city. Jaipur Amer Fort is one of the most magnificent palaces in India. The place is well known for its architecture, elephant ride, and artwork in each of the courtyards. Amer fort tourism attracts a lot of crowd every day.

Why Amer Fort is famous?

Amer Fort is well-known for its aesthetic characteristics. The fort overlooks Maota Lake, which is the principal supply of water for the Amer Palace, from its huge ramparts and system of gates and cobbled roads. The architectural style of various fort structures was heavily inspired by Mughal architecture. Are Amber Palace and Amer Fort the same? - all different names referred to the same place.

Jaipur Amer Fort or the Amber Palace as viewed from the main road.

Who lived in Amer Fort?

Amer was originally the capital of the princely state of Jaipur, and the fort was the palace of the Rajput monarchs. On the ruins of an 11th-century fort, Maharaja Man Singh I, who led Mughal Emperor Akbar's troops, began building in 1592. Before transferring the capital to Jaipur in 1727, successive monarchs expanded to Amber Fort Jaipur.

Also, read Jaipur Monkey Temple | Sisodia Rani ka Bagh | Jaipur

Jaipur Amer Fort

Jaipur Amer Fort is split into four parts, each with its own entrance and courtyard. The 'Suraj Pol' or Sun Gate, which leads to the main courtyard, is the fort's primary entrance. You may either ride an elephant upwards or take a jeep trip from the rear entrance.

The second floor of the Amer Fort is the Diwan-e-Aam (Public Audience Hall). From here you get to see the top view of the lake and the garden at the center of the lake. It is a massive hall open on three sides. The royal apartments are located in the third courtyard of the Amer Fort. Entrance to this level is through the Ganesh Pol. The most magnificent attraction in the compound is the 'Sheesh Mahal'.

Courtyard at Jaipur Amer fort or Amber Palace

Sheesh Mahal Jaipur

The Sheesh Mahal's walls and ceilings are adorned with exquisite floral carvings, glass paintings, and optical illusions. The 'Sukh Mahal,' constructed of sandalwood and ivory, is located directly across from the Sheesh Mahal.

It has numerous channels with running cold water. The 'Magic Flower' is another attraction of the Amer Fort. The Amer Fort's final level was designed specifically for Royal ladies. It has a courtyard surrounded by several rooms. There is also a hall called the Jas Mandir that was once utilized for a private audience.

Sheesh Mahal Jaipur

A climb further beyond this will take you to the watchtower. Not many visitors visit this place. Also, there is a museum at the peak which is another half a mile hike uphill. At the peak, you get to see the panoramic view of the fort and huge canyon that is now on display to the public.

Carvings at Sheesh Mahal Jaipur

Also read: Hawa Mahal Jaipur – Stupendous and unique architectural design

How much time does Amer Fort take?

If you actually want to experience the awe-inspiring Amer Fort, allow at least three hours. The fort is best visited around 4 p.m. when the sun isn't fully above but there's still enough light to explore.

What is the best time to visit Amer Fort?

The Amer Fort is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. If you're seeking the finest time to visit Amer Fort, the months of October through March are ideal. During these months, the temperature is rather nice and cool.

Old paintings and artwork at Sheesh Mahal Jaipur

Which is better Amer Fort or Nahargarh?

Nahargarh may appear to be an unusual pick in a city of larger forts, but it provides relative seclusion, especially when compared to the crowded Amber Fort. Nahargarh, which is lighter and more golden in hue, also offers something that the other two more prominent Jaipur forts do not: unobstructed views of downtown Jaipur. So, if time allows, I would recommend visiting both locations.

https://youtu.be/7nmE-xSy1qc

Jaipur Stepwell

Our first stop is 'Panna Meena ka Kund' (Stepwell) built in the 16th century. Jaipur Amer Fort / Amber Palace has a traditional Hindu Rajput style of architecture. It's composed of marble and red sandstone, and it has a rustic, enigmatic aspect. Portraits of important Rajput rulers and paintings in old hunting techniques are prominently visible.

Stepwell on the way near second entrance to Amber Fort (Jeep route)

Hotels near Amber Fort, Jaipur

There are multiple hotels near Amer fort from budget hotels and hostels starting with a price tag of 600 rupees to the expensive ones that will cost you around 9000 rupees which is in close proximity to the Amber fort. There are hotels in this area with a view of the fort.

To conclude, the Jaipur Amer fort is one of the best places to visit if you would like to witness true historical architecture. It is also listed in the UNESCO heritage sites. Once you visit this place, the feeling that you get would be more like going back in time and witnessing the royal palace. Watch this video till the end and support my work by SUBSCRIBING to my YouTube channel.

San Antonio Riverwalk - A truly pleasant place to relax

San Antonio is roughly an hour and a half or 80 miles from Austin, Texas. It makes for a great weekend escape if you're in town. San Antonio is about an hour and a half drive or 80 miles from Austin and is a perfect weekend getaway. San Antonio is a major city in south-central Texas with a rich colonial heritage. The San Antonio Riverwalk Christmas Lights draw a large population during the month of December. Also, the ten-dollar San Antonio Riverwalk Christmas Boat Tour is a must if you are here.

San Antonio Riverwalk boat ride. Photo: by Ravindra Joisa

You might be asking - What is the San Antonio Riverwalk known for? Well, all of this takes place on a world-famous 15-mile urban river. The River Walk, also known as Paseo del Rio, is a San Antonio landmark and the country's biggest urban environment. It gives a calm and pleasant way to tour the city, tucked discreetly below street level and only feet away from the Alamo.

How long is the San Antonio Riverwalk?

The San Antonio River Walk is 15 miles long and runs through downtown San Antonio for roughly 5 miles. While there is no exact River Walk address, the Shops at Rivercenter on the River Walk can serve as GPS guidance. If you don't like walking then take the cruise and they will stop at the destination on the way.

San Antonio Riverwalk, Illumination late in the evening during Christmas.
Photo: Mobile pic by Ravindra Joisa

San Antonio Riverwalk Boat Tour

The SanAntonio riverwalk boat tour is one of the must-visit tourist attractions. The Riverwalk, which stretches for kilometers and is dotted with cafés and stores, is a popular tourist attraction. If you are wondering how much does it cost to ride the River Walk in San Antonio? The fourteen-dollar boat ride is the finest money you'll ever spend. The Riverwalk is over 15 miles long in total, but the tour focuses on just the downtown loop which is about 2.5 miles. The narrated river cruises are about 35 minutes long. Your guide will share historical and cultural tidbits with your group while keeping things light and humorous.

Also check: Canyon Trail – River Place Nature Trail, Austin, Texas, US

Historic Theatres, seen from San Antonio Riverwalk.
Photo: Mobile pic by Ravindra Joisa

San Antonio Riverwalk Christmas Lights

If you go around the holidays, the trip is very beautiful, with excellent illumination all along the river. November through April is the ideal season to visit San Antonio, with December being the finest. So, you can enjoy the Christmas lights late at night. Moreover, the miniature lighting all along the river at the time of Christmas attracts a lot of crowds. If you're lucky, you could come upon the Lollypop Carriage. A 12-minute city excursion that will set you back at approximately $50.

Is San Antonio Texas worth visiting?

San Antonio is an excellent city for touring, as it is home to some of Texas' most famous historic monuments. Spend some time seeing the Alamo and the city's ancient missions after taking a stroll or a boat along the River Walk.

Are dogs allowed in the river walk?

Dogs are permitted on the River Walk but must be kept on a leash. Many of the outdoor restaurants and stores allow dogs to dine with their owners on their patios. Some restaurants, such as Rita's on the River, even feature pet menus.

Restaurants and the pedestrian. Photo: by Ravindra Joisa

Where is the best part of San Antonio Riverwalk?

Along the Riverwalk, see a performance at one of the historic theatres, go shopping, witness a parade, or enjoy excellent cuisine. Also, grab a cool drink at the area's oldest pub, to name a few activities. The fluttering flag on top of the tall standing 'Tower of Life Building' and also the 'Tower of the Americas' look prominent. Watch the video till the end. In addition, consider SUBSCRIBING to my YouTube channel to support my work.

https://youtu.be/CEAezPlyzK0

Dochula Pass, Bhutan - Beautiful Panoramic Himalayan View

The National Memorial, Dochu La, or Dochu Pass with 108 stupas or Dochula Chortens is erected in the pass's central hilltop. It's located halfway between Thimphu and Punakha in Bhutan and provides amazing panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range.

How high is Dochula pass? - Dochula Pass' height is about 3100 meters and the place remains foggy. Around December, the weather in Dochula Pass is perfect and clear, allowing you to observe the Himalayan mountain range. You may expect snowfall early in the year.

Why was the Dochula Pass built?

Dochula Pass history - It was constructed in memory of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth 'Druk Gyalpo' (head of state). It was created to accompany the chortens, with a view of the snow forest and the Himalayas. This is a significant center of devotion for the villagers, who visit the monastery practically every day to pray.

108 Chortens at DochuLa © Ravindra Joisa

How do you get to Dochula Pass?

Check the World’s largest mountaintop statue of Buddha Dordenma, which is located in Thimphu. Thimphu to Dochula pass distance - Firstly, the 108 chortens on Dochula Pass, is around 23 kilometers from Thimphu, take 40 minutes to reach. Secondly, to reach Dochula Pass hire a taxi from Thimpu or go for a solo bike ride. With its hairpin twists, dense jungle, up and down mountain passes, the route is reminiscent of traveling through the Western Ghats in southwest India. On reaching Dochula Pass, park your vehicle near the cafe.

Dochula Cafe. © Ravindra Joisa

A visit to the Dochula Cafe

The cafe might be overcrowded with a lot of tourists. You may want to quickly grab a cup of hot coffee and explore the place under cold weather. Moreover, the place is unique and an amazing place to capture photos. You can have the Himalayan mountain range in the background and stupas in the foreground. However, do not make an attempt to climb up the stupas. It is strictly not allowed and is a punishable offense. Basically, in simple words just explore the place and be respectful to Bhutanese culture and tradition.

By the way check out: My Interview with Smart Photography Magazine

108 Chortens at DochuLa, central tower, and flag. © Ravindra Joisa

A visit to the Druk Wangyel monastery

To the opposite of the 108 chortens is the Druk Wangyel monastery. Firstly, this monastery has a huge statue of Buddha and other deities inside. Secondly, it has paintings depicting the life of Buddha and other stories. The view from the outside is breathtaking. Also, you get to see the 108 chortens from a different angle.

Druk Wangyel monastery © Ravindra Joisa

Where to go next after Dochula Pass

From here Punakha is another 3 hours drive. By the way, do not forget to visit the mad man's Fertility Temple - Chimi Lhakhang on the way. You'll need to pass the rice fields and view traditional cottages with paintings on the walls. Also, the beautiful view of the Pochu Mochu river. The colorful prayer flags on the way just make the journey even more memorable.

Dochula Pass, 108 Chortens and Cafe. © Ravindra Joisa

Note: Be respectful when you visit some of the places. Outsiders might visit without knowing. For example - The dress code when you enter the monastery, usage of the camera, the staircase entrance at Punakha Dzong - the middle row is for the king, no entry zones for outsiders at the third courtyard of Punakha Dzong, do not make any attempt to climb up the chortens for a photoshoot. The best is to check with your local guide.

To conclude, Dochula Pass is a renowned tourist destination because it provides a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan range. The vista is particularly breathtaking on clear winter days. Snowcapped mountains give a stunning backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens that dot the mountain pass. Watch my YouTube video below and consider subscribing to my YouTube channel.

https://youtu.be/5_l3ecLzsII

Vellagavi Village - An incredibly magnificent community

Kodaikanal is a destination I'd want to visit. Every time I visited this location, it was different, and I had a one-of-a-kind experience. So this time, I'll be hiking upward from Kumbakarai to Kodaikanal through Vellagavi village, a path that was formerly used to transport goods under British control, going through lush forests, by a waterfall, and through a quiet settlement. Furthermore, no one wears shoes in this hillside settlement. Vellagavi, close to Kodaika, is well-known for this.

Temples at Vellagavi Village, Photo Copyright: Ravindra Joisa

Reaching Vallagavi village

The route follows the Kumali-Dindigul highway, with a turnoff to Kumbakkara at Periyakulam. The hike begins in Kumbakkara. The entire hike is in the rain forest and takes about 6 hours to reach the Vellagavi village. Firstly, a temple will greet you as you enter Vellagavi village. Secondly, Vellagavi village is in the heart of the jungle, a settlement of barefoot inhabitants. The locals here consider this place to be holy and the village is super clean.

Vellagavi Government primary school

A place full of temples

A primary school and a playground are located in front of this little isolated community situated in the Kodaikanal mountains. Residents rely on centuries-old paths to travel about because there is no road linking the village to the outside world. There are more temples than dwellings, the hamlet is considered sacred, and no footwear is worn within the community. In addition, folks here go to bed at 7 p.m., soon after sunset.

Vellagavi village Stay

You may stay in motels near the Vellagavi forest reserve before or after the trip. If you are traveling on your own then you might stay at hotels in Kodaikanal. Because this is a perfect two-day weekend trip, you may camp at Vallagavi's "Old Kodai Camping Tents," which is located at the village's entrance and has ready-made erected tents waiting for you to come.

You continue 'barefoot' through the village, through the lone bank/post office and a primary school, to the site where you may spend the evening and camp. It's on the other side of town, away from the people, so you may enjoy the campfire without disturbing the local people at night. There is a location for visitors and hikers to stay near the entrance, as well as a shop. We erected our tent here and spent the evening around the campfire. It was good to sit in front of a campfire and enjoy the peaceful cold night. This is something that I love and usually miss when I go on Himalayan treks where a campfire is not allowed.

Overnight tent-stay at Vellagavi Village. Photo Copyright: Ravindra Joisa

The uphill hike after Vellagavi village

The majority of the hiking track is in the woods. The Western Ghats' jungles are incredibly magnificent. Unfortunately, at the time of my visit, the region right before the dolphin nose area was engulfed in flames, and the hiking route was completely engulfed in ash. We eventually made up to the all-uphill walk to Dolphine nose. Dolphine Nose is a renowned tourist site that is frequently crowded.

Enjoying the Vellagavi Forest view. Photo Copyright: Ravindra Joisa

The tragic forest fire above Vellagavi Village

It's worth noting that there was a large forest fire in this section of the climb, right below the Dolphin nose area, not long ago. We were told that a party of all-female hikers became stuck in the middle of the forest and perished in the forest fire. Many people had died. You can see in the video below where the ruins can still be found, and even throughout my trip, the last kilometer was under forest fire but was not intense.

A foggy day, near Dolphin Nose, where there was once a forest fire.

To summarise, this is an ideal weekend trek that includes a stay in a lovely community in the heart of the forest. Watch the movie below, and I hope it is entertaining and even motivates you to arrange a hike to ancient Kodai.

Vellagavi Village to Dolphin Nose, Kodai. Photo Copyright: Ravindra Joisa

By the way, the best time to visit this location is during the post-monsoon season, which runs from October to February. Hiking during the monsoon season is not recommended since you will be in the center of a rain forest with lots of rain.

https://youtu.be/apim07rm8PI

By the way, you may want to check my other trekking stories. Hope you enjoyed reading the blog post. You may buy me a coffee to support my work and the effort taken to write this post and make this video. Or the least that you can do is to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more videos and join my FriendZone for more stories.