My first trip to Vaishnodevi was unimpressive. Climbing was hard, and it only served to highlight how badly out of shape I was, while my in-laws managed to cope so much better. Further, I hadn’t quite realized that the cave experience wouldn’t be the same as I had imagined, since the original cave was only opened at certain times a year, and that we only entered a newly created tunnel, one far easier to access, and hence more manageable with the crowds that thronged the mountain shrine. The resulting experience at the shrine, for barely a fraction of a second, hardly compared to what I had expected / imagined / heard about. So, for me, Vaishnodevi was like any other temple, nothing to write home about, something that was reflected (though not explicitly mentioned) in the blog post I wrote then.
For Skywatch today is an interesting natural sight – the Phantom
Rock near Ambalavayal town in Wayanad, Kerala.
This natural, metamorphic rock resembles a skull, which
brings about its name.
It is visible from quite a distance, which only enhances its
popularity.
Locally, it is called ‘Cheengeri Mala’ or ‘Thalappara’,
which means ‘stone head’.
For more beautiful skies from around the world, visit the
Skywatch Page.
Have heard about this rock a lot. Yet to visit it. It looks so precariously placed there. Nice clicks!
ReplyDeletehttp://rajniranjandas.blogspot.in/2013/06/alibaug-beyond-beach.html
Thanks Niranjan. It is really placed precariously and its amazing to see it still standing like this!
DeleteAnd I had not heard of it at all before today. They look majestic. catch up with your blog once i am back on the other side of June.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mridula! it is really a majestic sight! and all the best for your trek! I look forward to your posts!
DeleteA majestic rock.
ReplyDeleteYes, THomas. it is majestic indeed!
DeleteWhat a wonderfully moody rock! Great pics.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Ladyfi!!
DeleteI've heard about Chengeri Mala / Thalapara, but never seen them. The picture of the rock against the sky is beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThanks Anu!! you should go see it someday! really beautiful place!
DeleteThere is a spooky place in Wayanad, could you visit it?
ReplyDeleteNo Indrani, we couldnt visit that. I did hear of it, but our time went off in other pursuits :D
DeleteVery interesting! There are so many unheard of places.
ReplyDeleteThank you Kusum! there indeed are many such places across India!
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ReplyDeleteNever heard of this, Anu. But then I don't really know much of Wayand. Nice captures all.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sudha! its quite a landmark in Wayanad!
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