KP On The Go!

Introduction Being an avid reader and a traveler (of sorts), it would be fair to assume that books related to travels and journeys rank among my favourites. Reading such a book while on a journey myself adds to the richness of the experience - the author's journey coincides with that of mine and when the experiences overlap its not an insignificant euphoria. Reading 'The Pearl' - a novella by John Steinbeck - by the beach Of course, not every book achieves such a rapture. The way a person - be it me or the author - develops  across the course of a journey is what matters in the end - the change of perspective perhaps, or a realization that dawns slowly in the way a veil of clouds lifts off a snowy peak. All journeys have their natural pace and all stories have theirs. When the pace of the story matches that of the journey - running across the crowded city streets and pausing a while to savour the fragrance of wild-flowers in a wild forest bloom - the effect tran...

Introduction The Hoysala Dynasty originated in the Malanadu region of Karnataka around the turn of the 12th century and spread out through the state, their backs protected by the mighty wall of the Western Ghats. The term Hoysala literally means lion-slayer. It originates from their first victory over the Tamil Cholas - their emblem was the lion - at Talakadu . The Buccheshwara Temple at Korvangla ... ... note the Hoysala emblem - man slaying a lion - near the spire The dynasty came to an early end in the middle of the 14th century, but by then, had left a lasting imprint on the state's architecture. The intricacy of Hoysala black soap-stone sculptures is virtually unparalleled in the country. There are three prime centres for Hoysala architecture: Belur, Halebidu and Somnathpura. -x-x-x- Getting Around The three prime centres of Hoysala architecture and a few others are located conveniently near Mysuru and can be covered in a couple of days with a dedicated tra...

Introduction Malhargad is one of the youngest forts in India. It was built by the Marathas in the latter half of the 18th century to guard the Dive Ghat route connecting Saswad to Pune. The fort can be accessed by a short climb of 20 minutes after a short detour from the Dive Ghat road, thus making it a quick getaway from Pune on any day. The Sun Also Rises -x-x-x- Getting (Climbing) In One has to take the Dive Ghat route from Pune on the way to Saswad. After the ghat climb, one should take the road to the left at the next to Shakuntala Misal leading towards Zendewadi. The road deteriorates after a while, but leads on the the base of Malhargad where one can park the vehicle. Two paths from this point can be used to climb to the fort - the straight rough path or the gentle switch-back route on the right.     The fort seen from the parking lot The stairs leading to the 'Chor Darwaza' The gentle switch-backs The main road of the Dive Ghat is s...

Introduction Gokarna - once a temple town with unspoiled beaches has been transformed to a prime backpacker hangout over the course of the past decade or so. The temple of Mahabaleshwara still plays a central role in the town affairs, however the pristine beaches are now the main draw. There's nothing much do other than soak up the sun, learn a bit of yoga, take a quick dip and chill on the sand - I think that is more than enough though. Gokarna is a place to sit back and relax. Tranquil! -x-x-x- Getting In and Around Gokarna has one railway station, but not many trains halt there. It is pertinent to get to Ankola to get a connecting bus to Gokarna. Ankola has good bus connectivity. There are a few direct buses between Gokarna and Hubli as well. Gokarna on the map Rickshaws and rental scooters are available to get around places on Gokarna, but they are not very necessary of you are carrying light loads. There are a few ascents and descents so it is pertinent...