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The Vaishnodevi Experience 2023

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.
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And so, the year begins!!

2014 is finally here, and it seems to be starting off on the right note. There are some interesting things happening, but you will have to wait to find out what they are. After all, there is nothing as wonderful as surprises, is there? Right now, the good news is that I am off again, on an unexpected trip!! 




This was the first place I visited with my husband, in August 2002, and it marked the beginning of our thirst for travel, especially to out of the way places. This was also where I saw my first Hornbill, and though I didn't realize it then, developed an interest in birdwatching. Yes, folks, I am off to Dandeli, again!

It might have been fun to go back along the same trails with my husband again, more than 11 years later, but it was not to be. Instead, I am going this time with my son, who, needless to say, is thrilled!!! More importantly, this time, I am going there on an invite from Dandeli.com .



Dandeli.com are affiliated with major resorts in and around Dandeli, and are engaged in promoting tourism in the area. They handle all bookings, from hotels/resorts to vehicles and also sightseeing and treks in the area. They very graciously agreed to let me bring Samhith along and since I wasn't  able to make the bus bookings from home, they even arranged those for me. Making all the arrangements through phone and email was a breeze, and now I am looking forward to the experience!!! The perfect start to the new year, wouldn't you agree? 

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Location: Dandeli, Karnataka, India

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