Another trip lead with F5escapes this March end of 2026. It was indeed a situation in UAE as the war was going on with US Israel Iran. The flights were limited and luckily had booked with Emirates. And so could take up this trip and it was a great change from the atmosphere we were in.
Arunachal is not a trip.. its a road trip with min 5hours to max 9 hours of road journey.
We had been planning Egypt for the last don't know how many years!! This time it was MY 50th Birthday and so planned to do this trip. Normally everyone starts trip from Cairo and end in Hurgadha but we planned the reverse.
Took the flight on 13th Feb, 2026 from Sharjah to Hurgadha...with 1 stop at Cairo. We got our visa on Arrival. Then took another flight. We dint plan the trip with proper car or driver and hotel stays. Everything we booked through Booking.com. We booked a resort on 14th Feb to celebrate the birthday. The place seemed like we were in some resort in UAE. The climate was cold though. Had a dip in the Red Sea, snorkeled to sea few fishes and relaxed with family. The hotel surprised with a cake. The evening the restaurant was fully decorated Red and Pink for Valentine. First time I was witnessing the fancy valentines day celebrated by people. I say.. Normal people celebrate Valentines day... Legends celebrate Birthday!! So the first day went on well relaxing near the beach.
15th Feb we booked Luxor for 3days. Took a Gobus from Hurgadha to Luxor which was 4hrs road trip. The way was fully barren land. When we reached East Luxor, the area was full of local people. They were almost pouncing on the tourists. We ignored and just walked bit away from that place and took a cab to our stay. We settled a bit and went out to have dinner. It was quite a long road near the Nile river. We found a restaurant which said vegan and vegetarian. It was full and we waited for some time. The ambience was good and the food was also very good. The day ended after a long journey.
16th Feb..
We went back to the same restaurant and had our breakfast. It was indeed yumm. Then took a cab for a day trip to cover The Valley of Kings, Valley of Queens, Hatshepsu and Colossi.
The Valley of Kings:
Hatshepsu:
The day was too hot and it was almost 32deg. By evening we were all tired and came back by 5pm. Had early dinner and ended the day. On the way we just saw how they make products from Obelisk stones.
17th Feb..
After the breakfast, we took boat to Karnak temple. It was massive and very beautiful. People who love history will for sure enjoy this place.
By the time we finished and went to Museum, they said it is closed till evening 5pm. So we came back by boat. Evening went to Luxor Temple.
We could see that from the road itself and dint bother to go in. Then directly went to the Museum and spent almost 2hrs.
By this time we were tired of the place and people. For everything they were just behind us to get some money. Dint ever expect such a thing. I was already feeling enough of this place and thought to fly back to Cairo. But we took the risk to travel to Aswan.
18th Feb..Luxor to Aswan
We booked a cab to Aswan. On the way we saw Edfu, Edna and Philae temple. It was okay. Even if we had missed these, wouldnt have mattered. The way was really barren land and hardly any people. We booked in a village guest house. It was damn so interior and inside a proper local village. Felt really strange and tensed. Thankfully booked for Cairo next day and wanted the night to end soon!!
19th Feb..Aswan to Cairo
Since it was Ramadan 1st day, no breakfast was available. The person in charge was literally sitting and asking for more and more tips. I just wanted to run away from that place. After reaching airport and seeing NORMAL people, felt better and safe. Very very difficult if someone is planning on their own. Would suggest to book the stay in city rather than in remote place when booking online.
Reached Cairo and felt really better and back to civilization seeing the buildings, crowds. The stay was very near to the Pyramids. Had dinner and just hit to sleep.
20th Feb..
After breakfast, left to see the Pyramids of Giza. By 9am itself it was too crowded. Bought the entry tickets and when we reached the entrance, a person came and asked for tickets. He just grabbed from my hand and said he is the tour guide. With no other thought I grabbed the tickets from his hand and said No need. Shukran!! That's how locals are desperate in this place.
We went inside and were clicking pictures of Spinyx. One guy came and took my mobile and directed to pose for pics. Finally ended up giving him money!! But he did a great job clicking my pictures with Spinyx :D
Walked all the way to the Pharaohs Khufu which is the main Pyramid. It was very crowded as that one was only open to go inside. We dint go and walked to Khafre pyramid. Then next to Menkaure pyramid which was opened due to too much people in Khufu. It was good experience to go inside the pyramid.
Pyramid Complex of King Menkaure:
Then went to Grand Egypt Museum that was recently opened. It was indeed Grand.
21st Feb.. Booked a cab for half day for Cairo sightseeing.
Saladin Citadel
Mosque of Muhammed Ali
Hanging Church
By this time I was totally drained out and as we finished Cairo, preponed flights for the night and came back to Sharjah early next morning. As we landed UAE, felt like coming back to HOME!
Thus ended our Great Grand Trip of Egypt.
Egypt is not a place for weak hearted. Too many scams everywhere. We really need to be awake and present state of mind.. esp. when you are travelling on your own. If planning, would suggest to book a private or group tours. Still best is to experience the Nile cruise which covers all these places. In that way no stress and your holiday will be enjoyable!
New year and new travel plans. This year 2026 starts with Srilanka trip. Through some connection we got the details of a travel guide/driver.
Sanna Tours, Srilanka. Mr Ramzan +94778587597
Day 1: Arrived at Colombo Airport at 2am. Flight was delayed and so had only few hours of rest.
Drive to Sigiriya. On the way had breakfast on the highway which was very very survival. It was a long drive to Sigiriya. Were damn tired and sleepless.
Our first halt was Dambulla temple. Its a cave temple. We had to hike up the steps
The Golden Temple:
Next halt was Pidurangala rock.
Had our late lunch+dinner. Local curry and rice which was really yummy. And reached our hotel. Much awaited to get that damn sleep.
Another F5escapes.com trip lead to South Kerala, that includes Trivandrum and Kanyakumari, for 4 days.
Day1:
Landed Trivandrum Airport and after the group met, we went straight to Anjengo Fort. Its a British Fort established in 1699, known for its colonial architecture, trade history and strategic location between the Sea and Backwaters. Anjengo in Malayalam means 5 coconut trees.
Then visited the Light house (entry Rs10) which was just next to Anjengo fort. It has 200 steps appx to reach the top. The view of the Sea and Backwaters was amazing.
We then reached our stay at Elixir resort. The Sea view was beautiful. After lunch we took some rest. Then left for Varkala beach at 5pm. It was too crowded and so left for the Cliff view. From there we walked into small lanes to reach the beach. Due to heavy rush, the beach access was closed for public. Hence, left back to our stay after spending sometime watching the sunset at the beach. Had dinner and called the day off.
Day2:
Morning went to the beach in the resort itself and the waves were really ferocious. Spent sometime and then after breakfast left for Jatayu Earth center. The entry fee for Cable car was Rs 295 (Cash only) and for the cable car it was Rs 315. Its a 4min ride to the top. The statue of the Jatayu is a giant sculptor of an eagle. There's a temple of Rama beside the statue. A museum (in progress) was closed. Came down after clicking pics. Had lunch at Aanandhas on the way to Munroe Island.
Munroe island had many small small islands. We had our stay in one of the island. A boat took us from the shore to the stay. It was peaceful place surrounding the nature. We rested till 4pm. Had tea and local banana fritters. Some guys were fishing. At 5pm our boat came to take us for a village tour for 1 hour. It was a boat tour only. We dint get down anywhere to see any village by walk. At one spot, water level was good enough for us to get down. Many people clicked pics and left. Our group got into the water and had fun. We reached our stay around 7pm after seeing the sunset. It started raining and we just watched the rains and few fire flies after dinner.
Day 3:
After local breakfast, puttu and kadala curry, we left for Kanyakumari. It was a 5hours drive. On the way we had lunch at Arya Bhavan. Reached Kanyakumari at 3.30pm and checked in. The last ferry to Vivekananda Rock memorial was at 4pm so had to just run to get into it. The ticket was Rs 100 for normal but we took VIP Rs300 as rush was less. After getting down, we had to again take tickets for Vivekananda Rock memorial Rs 30 per person. Due to festive holidays, the place was so crowded. The meditation centre was good. We went to see Thiruvalluvar statue beside it. From down we cant even see the face of Statue. Felt it was not worth coming here as we can have a good look of the statue from the Shore itself. Then came back and went to the sunset point. Had a great time in the beach watching the sunset. At 8pm we returned to our rooms and had dinner at a nearby Punjabi dabba restaurant.
Day 4:
The sunrise view was perfect from our room window. There was a siren for sunrise. So many people came to witness it. But it was a cloudy day and just after sunrise, it went into the clouds. We then got ready and went to the temple a 6.30am. There are no tickets for darshan.. but as we know there are people who take us through short cuts for a reasonable amount. We had good darshan of Kanyakumari Goddess and went to see Triveni Sangam. Its the place where Indian ocean, Bay of bengal and Arabian sea merges. After breakfast, we started back to Trivandrum which was 4 hours road trip.
Checked into our hotel Rangamallika which was walking distance from Padmanabaswamy Temple. Went out and had our lunch and strolled around the place. We went for darshan at 5pm. There's a dress code for everyone. In simple words there shouldn't be a divide of clothes between legs. Hence, for Gents its only Dhotis and ladies Sarees, skirts (2 pieces) or dhoti over pants. We took VIP darshan ticket of Rs500 and so had a darshan of the Lord in front line. After coming out, we saw many people were doing Bharatnatyam and so settled to watch the dance. It was really amazing experience to see kids, adults dance. Later came back to our rooms after dinner. This ends our trip itinerary.
Day5:
Some went to have darshan in the early morning around 4am. There was only one line. No special darshan tickets. Not much rush during early mornings
After breakfast, we left for airport and back to our homes. Trip was little hectic due to the climate being humid too. But at the end, had a good time!
Once again an unexpected trip lead with F5escapes to Madurai, Tanjore, Rameswaram, Chettinadu. It was a wonderful trip with awesome group.
Took a one stop flight from hyd to bangalore to madurai. Had yummy breakfast with filter coffee in the airport, The Rameshwaram cafe. Met few of the group members at the airport and we took off to Madurai.
Day1: Madurai
Reached Madurai and refreshed in our hotel JC Residency. We got our Tempo Traveller and left for lunch at Sabarees. A must to have Thali here, if u are in Madurai. Then our trip started. Our guide came and met us. First we went to see the handloom sarees shopping, we left for Thirumalai Nayakars Palace. Then we had the famous Jigarthanda on the way to Madurai Meenakshi Temple. It was less crowded during this time as some renovation was going on. We have to leave our mobiles outside only. Went inside the temple and the guide told us the stories and info about the temple and the place. We had good darshan and also saw the museum, 1000 pillars mantap and sculptures inside the temple premises. After this, we had a small stroll in the market nearby. Had dinner in the famous Murugan Idly, which was walking distance from the parking. Then went back to the hotel and winded up for the day.
Day2: Tanjore
Had a wonderful south indian complimentary breakfast and Super Filter coffee in the hotel itself. Then had to hit the road by 9am to reach Tanjore early. We took the new highway called Natham road. It was straight road with no traffic. Reached hotel Sangam and checked in.
Left for lunch at Adayar Anand Bhavan and met our tour guide there. He had good knowledge about the culture, temple etc. First we went to see Bronze idols making. It was very interesting to see how the idols are hand made. They also had Tanjore paintings. From there we went to the Big Temple, Tanjore temple. Had very good darshan of Lord Shiva and spent sometime inside the huge temple.
Later went for a shopping nearby and came back to hotel. Had dinner there itself as everyone were tired and we winded up after that.
Day 3: Rameswaram
This day was a long road drive. After good breakfast, we left for Rameswaram by 8.30am. The route was beautiful. We reached Devipatnam by 12.30pm. It is famous to see the Navagrahas in sea water. As the day goes by, they are immersed inside the sea water naturally. Hence, if possible go as early to see all the 9 grahas before they go inside. Our next stop was Pamban Bridge. Then we reached our hotel Star Palace by 2pm. The hotels here are good enough for the place. Cant expect more than this. We had lunch here and then went to Abdul Kalams Memorial. Its a Must visit place. We reached RamanathaswamyTemple around 4pm, where our guide was waiting.
We took tickets for the 22 wells and darshan. To our surprise, there was no crowd at all. We had a peaceful darshan and spent time in the temple. Some went for shopping and rest of us just sat in Sarvana bhavan nearby and had good coffee/tea. Then around 7pm left for hotel. We planned to see Dhanuskodi the next day morning.
Day 4: Chettinad
After a good breakfast at hotel, we left for Chettinad. First went to Dhanuskodi, the tip of India. Due to security, the check post opened late. But we all had good time near the sea. Saw the ruins of church and railway station. Visited a nearby Ram temple and started off to Chettinadu.
It was very long journey. Had lunch on the way in some bakery as most of the restaurants were crowded on weekends. Reached Karaikudi by 2pm. On the way visited Antique Market. Then we saw Big house of Chettinadu, Athangudi tile making, saree weaving place. Few of them shopped for sarees. Then reached our hotel Chidambara Vilas. Its a beautiful mansion. We were received and then were given the program for the evening and next day morning. After refreshing, we went around the place and just relaxed. Our first event was to see cooking by the Chef. They made local dish and then we had a feast. It was very good dinner something different and yumm.
Day 5: Madurai.. End of trip
Morning we had a local village walk for an hour. It was nice to learn about the place and people. Surprised to learn abt Chettiyar community. After coming back had a lavish breakfast and then tour of the Chidambara Vilas.
Then we had to pack and leave for Madurai Airport which was again a long drive. We all had a great time learning abt the place and blessed to visit the Temples.
We had been planning to visit Jordan for so many years. And finally it happened this New Year 2025. Its a off season for tourism in Jan so we planned at the last minute. Our trip organizer Mr. Richard (+962795823994) He had organized every day plan, hotels and everything so perfectly, very professionally. So if anyone wants to plan Jordan, do contact him.
Its a visa on arrival for Jordan. We took Jordan pass which costed JD 70 per person (there are many options though). Hence, our visa cost was covered in that. Also Jordan pass covers many entry fees including Petra and few other sites.
Day 1: Amman
Citadel
Roman
Theatre
Blue Mosque:
Day 2: Desert Castles (East Jordan)
Qasr Al Kharanah castle :
One of the best-known of the desert castles, imposing and well preserved Umayyad building in the vastness of the Jordanian desert can be dated before 710 AD.
Amra Palace :
The best-known of the desert castles located in present-day eastern Jordan. It was built some time between 723 and 743. It is considered one of the most important examples of early Islamic art and architecture. The building is actually the remnant of a larger complex that included an actual castle, meant as a royal retreat, without any military function, of which only the foundation remains. What stands today is a small country cabin. The foundation has a simple layout with a rectangular audience hall, hydraulic structures, and a bathhouse. The bathhouse is also one of the oldest surviving remains of a hammam in the historic Muslim world.
Alzraq castle:
"Blue Fortress" is a large fortress located in present-day eastern Jordan. It is one of the desert castles, located on the outskirts of present-day Azraq, roughly 100 km east of Amman. The main entrance is composed of a single massive hinged slab of granite, which leads to a vestibule where one can see carved into the pavement the remains of a Roman board game. Although very heavy — 1 ton for each of the leaves of the main gate, 3 tons for single the other — these stone doors can quite easily be moved, thanks to palm tree oil.
Day 3: Jarash and Ajloun
Day 4: Kings way to Petra
Madaba
Mount Nebo:
Located near the city of Madaba and a short drive from the kingdom's capital of Amman, Mount Nebo is believed to be the place where Moses was shown the Land he could never enter, as well as where he died.
Mujib Panorama:
Shawbak castle
Day 5 : Petra
No wonder why this is a Wonder..
We come to know only when we are here to Wander! ~Ramya
Walk to the Treasury:
We reached the entrance of Petra at 9am. Since we already had Jordan Pass, was easy to collect the entry ticket. There were many horse rides from the entrance to The Siq, if one wishes to take. Nothing fancy about it, hence we just walked.
At the Siq entrance, 2 soldiers were standing to greet the visiors. They also were saying "click pictures with us" with a smile. Then our walk into the Siq started. Totally surprised and stunned with the views and the way it was leading. Different shades of rocks and many caves, structures we get to see on the way. Those days of Engineering skills is indeed incredible.
The walk was never ending, we feel at a point. And suddenly we see the beautiful entrance to the Treasury. No words to describe nor any pictures will justify the natures hidden beauty! One must just see and feel it. Wonderstuck!
Behind the Treasury:
After spending few minutes at the Treasury, we head behind it. The hidden city was massive and makes us really think how it could have been discovered. Frankly, there must be lot more things inside too. The caves which was homes, Theatre, Great temple, Church, fountains, Street walkways, Royal tombs and many more on the way from Treasury to the start point of Hike to Monastry.
Hike to the Monastery:
There was also an option of Donkey rides to the Monastery. But, we opted for The Hike!
It was roughly about 850 steps. Rocky, slippery in few places. With excitement when we climb up, dint notice nor felt except in 2 places that it was tough. But while coming down, felt most of the places were like that and wondered how I walked up. It was not hectic hike. People who took the donkey rides were mostly screaming as the donkey walks mostly at the edge. The guides keep telling "The Donkey knows its way better!" So never underestimate a Donkey. We can see many shops selling on the way too.
When we reach the Monastery, you feel WOW. The monument is just made out of a single rock they say. Its really huge. We can hike a little more and get a view from the top. Its incredible, wonderful.. what not!!! Theres a restaurant also for your lunch or coffee break with a nice sit out facing Monastery.
Dont ever miss this place when you are planning the trip. Many just return back from Treasury. There is so much to explore this place, if one has time to do so.
Day 6: Wadi Rum
A Journey through 1916 - Wadi Rum (A train ride experience) :
The train journey through 1916 in the Wadi Rum would take an hour and in the process you would get to see a show. We had no idea what to imagine but of course we were going to! The day we went into the wadi rum to spend the night in a tented camp, we booked the 1916 train journey(through Jordan Pass)
Waiting for the old train – Train Journey through 1916
We were given a location and it was in the middle of the desert at a railway crossing. Strange…but yes there were already more people waiting, seemingly in The Middle of Nowhere. When the train arrived, we quickly climbed aboard and sought a seat on 1 of the open carriages. Full of anticipation about the upcoming adventure, we looked around us, on this old train in the magical Wadi Rum desert.
Slowly, the train started moving again, back towards the station. There were men in army clothes with long guns walking on the train. They were only too happy to pose for our cameras to get a nice picture. There was also an automatic weapon on the open carriage with which several people took photos. On the other side than where we were sitting were sandbags.
We saw a Jordanian flag flying near a mountain further on. Suddenly 2 men on horses started riding towards the train with the flag. They started shooting and in turn the army guys shot back. When looked closer, we also saw a men behind sandbags underneath few rocks. As we got closer there was fighting again, shots rang out on both sides.
And then it really started. As we passed that mountain, horses and camel suddenly started running with armed men on them, and in the distance we even saw a jeep running along. I thought it was a very imposing sight so alongside the train. The dust billowing up under the hooves of the Arabs galloping along at full speed. There was shooting and shouting … and suddenly the train came to a halt.
We saw the men in army clothes, i.e. the men of the Ottoman Empire, surrender and get off the train. The Arabs came from the horse and quickly ran up the wagon to capture the fighting Ottoman men. Few passengers were taken off the train as a prisoner of war, in the jeep.
The big Jordanian flag could be seen all around you. The jeep, the Prisoner Of Wars were in, also proudly flew the Jordanian flag. They drove off…. but before we too started driving, the startled POW (tourists) were released and they came strolling back onto the train with loud cheers.
Finally, the train took off to the destination station.
What a super fun show. And what an imposing sight it was! Totally entertaining.
All those beautiful horses with those men on them, some shooting and others with a flag, galloping along the train…. I can really recommend it. If you go into the desert, take some time for this too. Super touristy but you are right in the magical wadi rum spheres. And you get a good idea of what it was like in those days.
Day 7: Aqaba
Aqaba is situated in south of Jordan. One shouldn't miss this place which is near to Wadi Rum. Nestled along the pristine shores of the Red Sea, Aqaba is more than just a picturesque travel destination. This is the Jordanian Port city on the Red Sea's Gulf of Aqaba.
Its beach resorts are popular for windsurfing and other water sports, and the area is a top destination for scuba divers, with notable dive sites including the Coral reef in the Aqaba Marine Park, Shipwreck, Plane Wreck.
Since we went in winter time, scuba diving was not recommended. Hence, we took a Glass bottom boat for 2hr ride. It took us to all the points of hotel resorts, panoramic view of the border of Israel, Egypt, Saudi. The view of the under water beauty was mesmerizing.
We had a quick falafel sandwich for lunch and drove back to Amman.
This city always reminds me of the famous Durga puja during Dassera. It was totally unplanned and last minute trip that happened this year, 2024.. all thanks to F5escapes
Visited Victoria memorial, Dakshineshwar Kali, Ganga ghat, flower market, Rajbari Bawali, Bonedi bari, Pandal hopping during day and night, Night cruise. The experience of pandal hopping during night was something different. The vibes with music, lights, traffic (that was controlled in proper way). We can see people everywhere till early morning hopping pandals, seeing different decorations of Maa Durga. The best part was Sindoor khel. Apart from these, the traditional food that we had in one of the local home was delicious.
The city, which was our first capital, maintains the same vibes. Not to forget those yellow ambassdor cabs. Not to miss the roadside chai, chaats, puchkas and of course shopping.
The Golden Pagoda of Namsai, also known as Kongmu Kham, in the Tai-Khamti language, is a Burmese-style Buddhist temple that was opened in 2010. It is located on a 20 hectares complex in Namsai District of Arunachal Pradesh, India and at a distance of 68 km from the nearest railway station Tinsukia, Assam.
Heard and saw posts on social media lot about this place. So ventured out solo one day. Googled abt the place and finally went to Uppal bus depot. But couldnt get the direct bus. Enquired there in the bus depot and took a bus to Bongir. It was so crowded that I had to footboard for 1hr. There was traffic due to an accident and hence took so much time. But enjoyed the journey footboarding. After another hour reached Yellama temple stop, as suggested by the locals to get down here and take shared auto. Though shared autos were many, i was only one to go to temple. So waited for 20mins yet no luck of any other passengers. Luckily one guy was talking with the auto drivers and he was working in the temple premises. He offered a lift to temple. Dint have any other option and took the lift on his bike. In 10 mins reached the temple and he guided and explained abt the temple. So thankful for his gesture.
The vibe of the Temple was almost like Tirumala. The chant of 'Om namo Venkatesaya', the steps to the temple, the smell of the laddu, smell of the oil and lights lit near the entrance. Since I went early, there was no crowd. We can buy coconut,tulsi garland at the footsteps. There is Garuda and Hanuman statues nearby. Deposited the mobile for Rs5/- near the entrance and went inside.
The inner temple is beautiful. It resembled mostly like Tirumala. Felt happy and peaceful. The main deity Swarnagiri Venkateshwara is huge, beauty. Cant take our eyes from Him. Had a very satisfactory darshan. No jaragandi jaragandi concept. Probably if it was crowded they might say though. The inner temple had various sannidhis for Ramanuja, Venugopal, Lakhsmi, Andal. We can donate for Anna dhaanam and also there was Tulabharam. When we take a pradhikshana, we can see Vimana Venkateshwara also here. There was a line for prasadam. Had hot pongal and the atmosphere made me feel as if I was in Tirumala. Felt really happy being there.
Then came out of the inner temple, collected mobile and went around. By this time crowd started and the optional entry fee Rs50/- was operational.
Then went around the temple. Next to Hanuman, there is Jal Narayan. Its another beauty. Hope next time i get a chance to visit in evening with lights.
We get all prasadams laddoo, pulihora, vada etc at nominal price in a counter near exit and also when you get down.
Then took a shared auto from outside temple to Bongir bus depot. From there direct bus to Uppal. Thanks to Telangana govt for free bus service for women. Had a great 1 day solo local trip experience.
Had been planning to go to Uzbekistan for a longtime as we had visa free. But every time we plan it would be holidays and the thought of being crowded and high price, cancelled going there. This time, it was unplanned. Just wanted to go somewhere and got into this women's group trip to Uzbekistan and Almaty. Though the itinerary was not satisfactory and I was at the edge of just to get out somewhere, took this trip just before a week.
Boarded the flight at right time but it took off after 1.5hrs later with technical issue. The start itself was troublesome. After landing, found that another flight was also delayed. Hence, felt relieved.
Day 1: Tashkent
At the Tashkent airport, we had to exchange to local currency. Didn't get SIM card as I wanted to be disconnected from everything, everyone and just be on the trip myself.
We went to see few site seeing directly from the airport.
1. Lal Bahadur Shastri statue
2. Khazrati Imam mosque
3. Independence square
4. Independence monument
5. Senate republic building
We went to Raaj Kapoor's restaurant in Tashkent. We had an Indian restaurant feel and the food was good. After dinner, checked in hotel Uzbekistan which was walking distance. The climate in the evening was very pleasant.
Day 2: Tashkent to Bukhara
Morning after breakfast went to the railway station and boarded train at 9am from Tashkent to Bukhara. It was 6.5 hrs journey. Noon was very hot and the AC was not at all helpful inside the train. Tea, coffee, soft drinks, snacks were sold inside the train. On the way, the train halted at Samarkand station. It is very famous for the big breads. Almost half the shop was bought by the travelers.
We all were tired by the time we reached Bukhara by 3.30pm. People carrying huge luggage had tough time as we had to carry on steps or drag them along the side provided for wheelchair. Went directly to a restaurant for lunch. Being Vegetarian had mentally prepared myself to have salads throughout the trip. Ordered some salad and a brinjal dish which was cold. Survival food.
Then reached our Bukhara hotel Omar Khayyam Hotel, which was really good... the breakfast, the neatness, the service. This is in Khakikat area of Old Bukhara. Everything was walking distance. No traffic and full of shopping and restaurants. In the evening, with the lights it was just set like a beautiful scene of old town. The place was mesmerizing that we forget about everything and just be in this place.
We wandered around the evening, clicking pictures, taking reels. Some started their shopping and so we could get the feel of local currency. There was one art shop where it was made with straws, coffee, colors etc. Beautiful crockery sets, uzbek man and woman, pomegranate being the local fruit depicting fertility and all over the arts, scissors for male and female, different kinds of musical instrument, clothes. It was a paradise for local shoppping. Later found a restaurant where it was mentioned vegetarian foood available. It had a lovely ambiance with live music, dance. Though I ended up having salad being only available vegetarian dish! No regrets as had great time with new friends.
Day 3:
We had a half day walking tour of the area. Ms Dilya was the local guide. We visited
Great Minaret of the Kalon (Mir-i-arab madrassa and Poi kalon mosque)
Maghak-i Attari mosque (oldest mosque of Bukhara)
monument of Hodja Nasreddin
Moschea bolo-khauz
Ark of Bukhara (fort)
kosh madrassa
Mausoleums
Lyab-i hauz
water tower shukhova
cradle significance of Uzbekistan
central market (spices, varities of herbal tea, bukhara halva)
trading domes
Embroidery, carpets, metal makings
Hammam for ladies
Evening we spent time wandering around the place again. Shopping, watching live musics dances on the street. Had dinner (again salad) with live music, dance. Watching the lights on the architecture in the night. Being Indian, felt like celebrities as the local people have great regard for Indian Bollywood. They came and clicked pictures with us!
Day 4: Bukhara to Samarkand
After breakfast, again walked on the streets. By this time, we were all familiar with the area and pricing of items in shops. Felt we were locals by now.
Boarded train to Samarkand at 5pm and on the way had good fun making some reels in the train. It was 8pm by the time we checked in the hotel Malika Prime. Had good dinner at nearby restaurant Boulevard (falafel with salad) Then we took a walk in a nearby park which had a light show fountain.
Day 5: Samarkand day tour
After breakfast, met our guide Selmon khan. We visited
Amir Temur Mausoleum
Shah-i-zinda
Registan square
Local Market
We reached back our hotel by evening 8pm and some of us planned to visit Registan square to watch the light show at 9pm. Later had dinner (veg wrap for a change) at Labi Gor Terrace.
Day 6: Samarkand to Tashkent airport
We left early morning to tashkent airport. We exchanged local currency to Kazhak Tenge at airport. Unfortunately our flight at 2pm got cancelled and we had to take next flight at 3.30am next day. Thankfully airlines provided us stay. We went and checked in by 3pm. Few of us went in search of Indian hotel and got into The host restaurant. Finally we got to eat good butter naan, dal fry, paneer sabji, veg biryani. Felt as if our taste buds came back to life. Rest of the day we had good nap after heavy lunch as we all were sleep deprived.
Dinner was provided by airlines and later walked around that area. Left to airport by 1am.
Day 7: Almaty
Reached Almaty and checked in Salut hotel by 7am. Very basic kind of hotel stay. Not recommended.
All were tired and just slept off after breakfast. Skipped lunch and directly went for half day tour of Almaty. We visited
First President park
Republic square
Abai, poet of Kazakh, statue
Panfilov park
Ascension cathedral
Walking street (Zhibek)
Had dinner in a pub Clover, which served Indian food. The climate was rainy and chill. Survived again having some rice and veg side dishes.
Day 8: Shymbulak
Its a ski resort with cable car to reach on top. There are 3 levels. Costs 6500 Tenge (local currency) a ticket. We went till the 3rd level. Saw snow, clicked pics, vids. There were professional drone guys there. Some clicked those. Suddenly there was a hailstorm for few mins and we could enjoy that too. Overall had loads of fun.
Had soup for lunch as nothing veg was available in that place. We were dropped again in that walking street as some wanted to shop. I just enjoyed walking around and watching the live music, kids playing on the streets.
We found a veg cafe Amrita and barged in. Seeing our group he was little shocked but greeted us Radhe Radhe and we realised it was ISKCON devotees cafe. It took almost 2hrs for him to prepare our list..single handed he did it. The vibes of the place was like Rishikesh. Finally had some good food. And back to hotel by 9pm. Next day we all had flights back home.
Day 9: Back to Home
Finally the trip ends with loads of memories. The group was like minded and hence the trip was really enjoyable.
It was Eid holidays and this trip was totally unplanned. We just booked flights and hotel through Holiday factory, which arranges budget travel from Dubai. Tried so many travel agents in Kyrgyzstan but due to holidays everyone were busy. So decided to just roam around the city.
After we landed Manas airport, it took us 5hrs to get Visa on arrival. We thought we will take the next flight back home as only one lady was issuing the Visa. So one full day went off in travel and getting the Visa. But, in that time, we finally found some guy who was English speaking and was free for site seeing.
Day 1 :
Burana Tower:
The Burana Tower is located in the Chuy region in northern Kyrgyzstan, about 80 km (50 miles) east of the capital Bishkek near the city Tokmok. This impressive ancient minaret still survives today as one of the key historical sites in Kyrgyzstan. Protected as a Unesco World Heritage site, Burana is one of the most famous minarets in Central Asia and beyond.
Built between the 10th and 11th centuries, the Burana tower with its 45 m (148 ft) height overlooked the ancient city of Balasagun, constructed by the Karakhanids in the 9th century.
The Burana Tower was originally built to a height of 44m, but after falling victim to both war and the elements, today it is only 25m tall. Still, it is definitely worth checking out, and is easily visited as a day trip from Bishkek..
Today, the Burana minaret has become an open-air historical and architectural complex. A small museum exhibits excavation findings, mostly medieval fine art and sculptures from the 6th to 10th centuries.
The site is made of 36 ha (89 acres) and includes mausoleum ruins, petroglyphs from the 2nd century B.C. and many « Balbals », funerary from the Turkish era (6th century).
The minaret itself exposes the skills of Karakhanid craftsmen.
Then we left for Issy-kul. On the way, we had the local famous dish "Kattama" a kind of paratha/naan with cheese and green tea for lunch. It was yumm and a must eat when you visit Kyrgyzstan.
Fairy Tale Canyon:
It was a long drive of 4hrs to reach this canyon. They are not manmade, however, and neither are they petrified fossils, but creations carved out of the rock by the effect of the weather, ice, wind and water. It’s a dry valley, there is no stream flowing through it down to the lake. The rocks vary in colour from a sandy yellow to red and orange, and there are also colourful striations visible in places which show the different chemical composition of the rocks.
Issyk-kul lake:
The modern name Issyk-Kul means 'hot lake' or 'warm lake'. Issyk-Kul is the world's second largest alpine lake. Issyk-Kul stretches from west to east for 182 km, and from north to south for 58 km. The average depth is 278 meters, the largest reaches almost 700 meters.
Yurt Camp:
A yurt is the modern version of an ancient shelter used by nomadic tribes in Central Asia. It's a dome-shaped structure that resembles a tent but has a cabin's durability. Yurts have circular wooden frames covered in felted wool layers, and along with other amenities, they can hold a stove to provide heat.
We had a bonfire camp with local family playing local traditional music at the camp.
Day 2:
Song-kul lake:
After watching the sunrise early in the morning, we had a good shower and simple breakfast in the Yurt camp. By 9.45am we left for Song-kul lake. It was a 6hrs long drive but the landscape was very beautiful with mountains, horses, cows, streams, farms. Also we can see different kinds of landscapes from greenery to desert.
The highest height is 3350m from sea level. When we reached this point, it was windy and starting raining. one point it was actually hailstorm. It was complete green meadow with animals around here and there. We reached our Yurt camp and had our hot tea. We walked till the lake and suddenly it started raining. After sometime, it became sunny. We saw a beautiful rainbow. Weather so unpredictable in mountains. The silence in this place is so blissful.
There was a perfect sunset. And after dinner and chat with the co travellers, we rested in our yurt tent.
Thanks to our driver/guide, without him we would have had tough time to find vegetarian food. We survived with whatever we got as Vegetarian.
Day 3:
Bishkek:
Morning woke up to see the sunrise and then walked to lake. Peaceful and relaxing with the beautiful view of lakes, mountains, horses. After breakfast, we left back to Bishkek at 10am. It was almost 7hrs drive back to city.
Osh Bazaar:
Osh Bazaar is one of the largest bazaars in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. It is located on the west side of town, and is not far from the Western Bus Station. At Osh Bazaar, one can buy food products, almost any common household good, clothes, souvenirs, and even musical instruments.
Day 4:
It was unplanned trip yet, we had good time in this place. We took back flight and holiday ends!
One need atleast 5days to visit this place. The only issue we will face is language. Not many speak English. Make sure you have someone who can communicate in English or Google Translate is helpful.
If anyone likes to visit this place, you can contact
