351 Years of Waiting: The Divine Return of Perunkaliyattam at Adoor Bhagavathi Temple

Some journeys are measured not by the distance travelled, but by the peace found along the way. Our pilgrimage through the sacred temples of northern and central Kerala was one such journey—a beautiful passage through devotion, tradition, prayer, and the timeless stories of the divine.

Day 1 – 23 January: Beginning the Pilgrimage

Our spiritual journey began at Thriprayar Srirama Temple, one of Kerala’s revered temples dedicated to Lord Rama. As we entered the temple, the atmosphere immediately felt serene and sacred. The fragrance of incense, the sound of prayers, and the gentle rhythm of temple rituals created the perfect beginning to our pilgrimage.

Standing before the deity, we offered our prayers and began the journey with a heart filled with gratitude and faith.

After offering our prayers at the temple, we walked towards the serene banks of the Triprayar River, which flows beside the temple. Here, we took part in a beautiful and age-old ritual known as Meenoottu—feeding the fish in the river.

More than a simple act of feeding, Meenoottu carries a deep spiritual significance. It is traditionally believed to symbolize an offering to Lord Vishnu in his Matsya Avatar, his first incarnation, in which he appeared in the form of a fish.

As we watched the fish gather in the gentle waters, the moment felt peaceful and deeply connected to nature and faith. The ritual beautifully brings together devotion, compassion, and reverence for life—a simple act that leaves behind a sense of gratitude and serenity.

Our next destination was Thrikannad Sri Thrayabakaswera Temple, another sacred place where spirituality and the natural beauty of Kerala come together. The temple visit offered a quiet moment of prayer and contemplation before we continued towards Kasaragod.

But our visit to Thrikannad did not end with the temple.

We also spent some quality time at the beach nearby. The gentle sound of the waves, the cool sea breeze and the wide open horizon made it a perfect place to relax and simply enjoy the moment. Sometimes, the most memorable parts of a journey are not the planned activities, but these unhurried moments spent together by the sea.

As the sun began to descend towards the horizon, the scenery transformed beautifully. The sky slowly took on soft shades of pink, spreading across the clouds and reflecting over the sea. The entire atmosphere seemed to glow in a delicate pink hue.

Standing there and watching the sunset, with the temple behind us and the Arabian Sea stretching endlessly ahead, felt almost magical. It was one of those fleeting moments that photographs can capture, but never quite reproduce the feeling of being there.

By night, we reached Kasaragod, where we stayed for the night. After a long but spiritually fulfilling day, it was time to rest and prepare for the next chapter of our pilgrimage.

Day 2 – 24 January: The Blessings of Sri Adhur Bhagavathy

The second day began with renewed energy and devotion as we travelled to Sri Adhur Sri Bhagavathy Temple.

We arrived on the last day of the three-day festival, held to mark the Perunkaliyattam after 351 years. What unfolded before us was not merely a temple festival—it was a spectacle of devotion, tradition, colour and faith that seemed to connect the present with a distant past.

Around the temple premises, Theyyam performers moved through the gathering, each appearance bringing a different form, costume, expression and magnificent headdress. Hour after hour, the sacred performances unfolded. Devotees gathered around them with folded hands, their faces filled with reverence.

Three Goddesses, One Sacred Abode

What makes Adoor especially significant is the belief that three goddesses reside together in a single shrine, blessing the people and all living beings.

The worship associated with the deities extends across several sacred places and forms. Bhagavathi is worshipped at Punnakavu, while Aayitti Bhagavathi and Asura Kalan are associated with Villapuram. Chamundi is worshipped at Kallankara, along with Mechery Chamundi and Malankara Chamundi. The sacred tradition also includes Panchuruli deities, Veeran, Vishnumoorthy, Gulikan and Thuuvakkali Amma.

Each name carries its own story, and together they form a rich tapestry of Malabar's sacred traditions.

A Journey That Began in Legend

The story of Adoor Bhagavathi is deeply rooted in local faith and oral tradition.

According to the legend, devotees travelling towards Malanad reached a place called Edathurazhi near Ezhemala. There, they encountered Vishnumoorthy, Chamundi and other deities who were waiting at an ancient temple.

They remained there for about a week.

As the goddesses became thirsty, Nelikkatte Kuruva, belonging to the Theeyya community, offered them tender coconut water. Later, Malom Mukayan received it and made the offering.

The goddesses were pleased by this act of devotion. They promised that they would be worshipped as the family deities in the house of Malom Mukayan.

And so, the journey continued.

From Chandragiri to Adoor

The three deities—Vairapuran North Kodi, Asurakalan and Gulikan—are said to have worshipped Chandragiri Shastha before continuing their journey towards Adoor.

When they arrived, they came before the Mahalingeshwara Temple. At the northern corridor stood Chamundi, guarding the entrance.

The three deities asked for permission to enter.

Chamundi refused.

Angered by this denial, the three deities are believed to have united into a single powerful form and transformed into Bhadrakali.

It was in this form that the goddess continued her journey towards Adoor.

The Goddess and the Ballal King

At that time, Adoor was under the rule of the Ballal royal family.

As Bhadrakali and her entourage travelled through the region, they encountered Mukayars carrying the king's palanquin. According to the tradition, the goddess entered the body of one of them.

The Mukayar then approached the king with a divine vision and requested a place for the goddess to reside.

The king, however, ordered his soldiers to capture them.

They escaped.

The person who had experienced the vision told the king that the divine sign would reveal itself before dawn the following day.

What happened next changed everything.

The King's Realisation

The following morning, the king was confronted with a heartbreaking sight.

His daughter had been struck by smallpox, and the infants were unconscious. Faced with this suffering, the king sought forgiveness.

Through astrological consultation, the presence of the goddesses was recognised.

The king then promised that if a place anywhere within his kingdom was pointed out, he would build a temple there for the goddess.

The story says that at that very moment, the condition of the princess began to change.

Thus, according to local tradition, the Adoor Bhagavathi Temple came into being—one of eleven temples believed to have originated through this divine intervention.

The 351-year gap made the occasion even more extraordinary. To witness the Perunkaliyattam after such a long interval was to witness a rare moment in the continuing story of the temple.

Day 3 – 25 January: From Lokanar Kavil to Thirunavaya

The final day of our pilgrimage began with a visit to Sri Lokanar Kavil Bhagavathy Temple.

The temple visit was a beautiful reminder of the deep connection between Kerala's people and the divine feminine. We prayed, received the blessings of Bhagavathy, and took a moment to reflect on the journey we had undertaken.

Our final destination was the historic Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple, situated on the banks of the Bharathapuzha.

As we reached Thirunavaya, the atmosphere felt especially peaceful. The temple, the river, and the surrounding landscape created a fitting conclusion to our spiritual journey. Standing before Lord Navamukunda, we offered our final prayers and expressed our gratitude for the opportunity to visit these sacred places.

A Journey Beyond the Roads

This pilgrimage was more than a journey from one temple to another.

It was a journey inward.

Each temple gave us a moment to pause. Each prayer reminded us to be grateful. Each road connected us not only to another destination, but also to Kerala's rich spiritual heritage.

Exploring Jatayu Earth’s Center and Sambranikodi Island

Kerala has a wonderful way of bringing together nature, mythology, adventure, and unforgettable landscapes. Our one-day journey from Kalamassery took us through two fascinating destinations in Kollam—Jatayu Earth’s Center and Sambranikodi Island.

An Early Morning Journey from Kalamassery

Our adventure began at 4:00 AM from Kalamassery. With the roads still quiet and the sky slowly beginning to brighten, we set off towards Kollam, picking up fellow travellers from the designated boarding points along the way.

Our first destination was Jatayu Earth’s Center at Chadayamangalam, a spectacular destination set amid Kerala’s rugged hills and natural landscapes.

Located on a rocky hill about 350 metres above sea level, Jatayu Earth’s Center is spread across approximately 65 acres. The destination beautifully combines mythology, art, nature, and adventure.

The Magnificent Jatayu Sculpture

As we approached the summit, the enormous figure of Jatayu came into view.

Inspired by the legendary bird from the Ramayana, the sculpture is one of the most remarkable sights in Kerala. Measuring approximately 200 feet in length, 150 feet in width, and 70 feet in height, it stretches dramatically across the rocky summit.

The sculpture represents Jatayu, who, according to the epic, fought Ravana while attempting to rescue Sita. Standing beside this enormous work of art makes the story feel remarkably vivid.

One of the most enjoyable parts of the visit is the journey to the summit itself. Visitors can take the cable car, offering a comfortable and scenic ride over the surrounding landscape. For those who prefer a more active experience, there is also an uphill walkway with 826 steps, winding through the natural terrain.

Once at the top, the panoramic views are just as impressive as the sculpture itself. Looking out across the green hills and valleys, it is easy to understand why this location has become one of Kerala’s distinctive attractions.

Afternoon: A Boat Ride to Sambranikodi Island

After spending the morning exploring Jatayu Earth’s Center, it was time to continue our journey towards Sambranikodi Island.

The afternoon brought a completely different experience. Leaving the hills behind, we headed towards the backwaters and boarded a boat for the journey to the island.

The boat ride itself became part of the adventure. Surrounded by Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, we could slow down and simply enjoy the scenery. The peaceful water, lush surroundings, and gentle movement of the boat offered a refreshing contrast to the excitement of the morning.

Sambranikodi gave us an opportunity to experience another side of Kollam—one shaped by waterways, village landscapes, and the serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters.

Back to Ernakulam

By late afternoon, our day of exploration was coming to an end. After enjoying the island and the boat journey, we began our return journey to Ernakulam.

A Journey Worth Taking

This journey is a wonderful example of how diverse Kerala can be. In the morning, we stood beneath one of the world’s largest bird sculptures, surrounded by hills and mythology. By afternoon, we were gliding through peaceful backwaters towards an island.

For anyone looking for a day trip that combines culture, mythology, adventure, nature, and backwater experiences, the route from Kalamassery to Jatayu Earth’s Center and Sambranikodi Island makes for a memorable Kerala adventure.

Sometimes, the best journeys are the ones that begin before sunrise and leave you with stories to remember long after you return home.

Tenkasi-Tirunelveli-Thiruchendur-Rameswaram-Dhanushkodi

Some journeys are more than just travelling from one destination to another. They become a beautiful blend of faith, devotion, nature, and cherished memories. Our three-day pilgrimage from Ernakulam to Rameswaram was one such unforgettable journey, taking us through some of the most sacred temples and scenic places of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Day 1 – November 8: From Ernakulam to Tirunelveli

Our spiritual journey began early in the morning from Ernakulam. We travelled through the familiar routes of Kottayam and Changanassery, picking up fellow pilgrims from the designated boarding points. With prayers and excitement filling the atmosphere, we continued our journey towards Kottarakkara.

Our first major stop was the revered Kottarakkara Sree Mahaganapathy Temple. We offered our prayers and sought the blessings of Lord Ganesha before continuing towards our next destination.

From Kottarakkara, we proceeded to Kulathupuzha Sree Balasastha Temple, one of the important Sastha temples in Kerala. After completing our darshan, we continued our journey towards Tamil Nadu.

Our next destination was Courtallam, famous for its magnificent waterfalls. The refreshing atmosphere, greenery, and sound of cascading water offered a welcome break after the long journey. We spent some time enjoying the beauty of the waterfalls before proceeding to Tenkasi.

At Tenkasi, we visited the historic Kasi Viswanathar Temple and had darshan of Lord Shiva. With hearts filled with devotion, we continued towards Tirunelveli, where we checked into our hotel for the night.

It was the perfect end to a day filled with temples, prayers, beautiful landscapes, and spiritual experiences.

Day 2 – November 9: Tirunelveli, Thiruchendur and Rameswaram

The second day began with an early morning visit to the magnificent Nellaiappar Temple in Tirunelveli. The temple's grand architecture and peaceful spiritual atmosphere made the morning especially memorable.

After darshan, we set out towards Thiruchendur, one of the most revered abodes of Lord Murugan. We offered our prayers at the famous Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, located beautifully beside the sea.

After completing our darshan, we continued our long journey towards Rameswaram.

As the bus was permitted only up to Rameswaram Town, we continued the remaining journey using local transportation. Upon reaching Rameswaram, we checked into our hotel and settled in for the night.

The day's journey had taken us through several sacred destinations, bringing us one step closer to the main spiritual experiences awaiting us the following morning.

Day 3 – November 10: Rameswaram, Dhanushkodi and Madurai

The final day began before sunrise. We set out early for the sacred Pinda Tarpanam and Theertha Snanam at Rameswaram, an important part of the pilgrimage for many devotees.

After completing these rituals, we proceeded for darshan at the renowned Ramanathaswamy Temple. The magnificent corridors, towering architecture, and deeply spiritual atmosphere made the visit a memorable highlight of our pilgrimage.

After darshan, we returned to the hotel, had breakfast, and checked out.

Our next destination was Dhanushkodi, the historic and scenic tip of the Indian peninsula. We visited the Kodandaramaswamy Temple, Ramatheertham, and Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple, spending time at these important spiritual sites.

We finally reached the tip of Dhanushkodi. The bus dropped us at the end of the road and it is the last turnaround of South India. In the middle you can see an Ashoka Stupa. This is the place where  seas Indian ocean (A sea with high tides) and Bay of Bengal (the low tide sea) merges. The area was crowded with people and vehicles. 

By noon, we returned to Rameswaram Town for lunch before beginning the journey towards Madurai.

Our final temple visit of the pilgrimage was at Tirupparankundram Murugan Temple, one of the six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan. After completing our darshan, we had dinner and began our return journey to our hometown.

A Journey to Remember

Three days, countless prayers, sacred temples, beautiful waterfalls, long roads, and unforgettable moments—this pilgrimage was much more than a journey.

From the blessings of Lord Ganesha at Kottarakkara to the serene waterfalls of Courtallam, from the divine temples of Tirunelveli and Thiruchendur to the sacred shores of Rameswaram and Dhanushkodi, every destination added a new chapter to our spiritual journey.

As we travelled back home after dinner, we carried with us not just memories and photographs, but also the peace, devotion, and blessings gathered along the way.

Some journeys end when we reach home. Others stay with us forever. This was one of those journeys.

Biligundlu: A Quiet Escape Along the Cauvery

 

There are some places you visit for the sights, and then there are places where the journey itself becomes the destination.

Biligundlu, a small and relatively offbeat destination on the Tamil Nadu–Karnataka border, is one such place. Tucked away amid forests, rocky hills and the beautiful Cauvery River, it offers a refreshing escape from the noise and crowds of the city.

If you are looking for a place where you can spend a day with friends, enjoy nature, get into the water, eat fresh fish, take a coracle ride, and simply slow down for a while, Biligundlu is worth exploring.

The Journey from Bengaluru

Our journey began from Bengaluru, with the route taking us through Hosur → Denkanikottai → Anchetty → Natrampalli → Biligundlu.

Biligundlu is roughly 140 km from Bengaluru, but the drive feels much more adventurous than the distance suggests. As the city disappears behind you, the roads become quieter and the landscape gradually transforms.

We passed through winding roads, green forests, valleys and rocky stretches. The changing scenery made the drive feel like a small road trip rather than simply a journey to a destination.

Breakfast Break at Anchetty

After driving for a while, we stopped at Anchetty for breakfast.

It was a simple break, but exactly what we needed before continuing towards Biligundlu. There is something satisfying about having breakfast at a small local place during a road trip, especially when the rest of the journey takes you deeper into the countryside.

With our stomachs full and the excitement building, we continued towards Biligundlu.

Finally, Biligundlu!

As we got closer to Biligundlu, the surroundings changed completely.

The busy roads gave way to greenery, hills and rocky terrain. The sound of traffic gradually disappeared, replaced by birds, wind and, eventually, the sound of flowing water.

And then came the first sight of the Cauvery River.

The river here has a different character from the more commercial tourist destinations you may have visited. There are fewer establishments, fewer distractions and much more of a feeling of being surrounded by nature.

It felt like the perfect place to spend a few relaxed hours with friends.

A Coracle Ride Across the Cauvery

One of the experiences we were most excited about was the traditional coracle ride.

We boarded a basket-shaped coracle and made our way across the river towards an island.

The ride itself was an experience. Sitting low over the water while the coracle slowly moved across the Cauvery, with rocky terrain and green hills around us, gave us a completely different perspective of the landscape.

Once we reached the island, we found a beautiful natural setting with sand, enormous trees and plenty of space to sit and relax.

A Day by the River

The island was surprisingly spacious.

There were huge trees providing shade, sandy stretches to sit on, and plenty of room for groups to spend time together. We saw several groups who had brought their own lunch. Some were relaxing under the trees, while others were cooking their food right there.

It had the atmosphere of a giant natural picnic spot.

The river was also inviting. In some places, the water came up to around waist level, allowing people to get into the water, cool off and enjoy themselves.

But there is one important thing to remember: the rocks can be extremely slippery.

If you decide to enter the water, take your time and be careful while walking over the rocks. Natural river surroundings are beautiful, but they also require a little caution.'

Coracle Ride, Water Fun and More

Our few hours by the river were all about having fun and enjoying the outdoors.

We spent time in the water, explored the island, relaxed under the trees and simply enjoyed being away from the usual city routine.

There was even someone offering an oil massage, which was an unexpected addition to the experience. After spending time in the water and walking around, a relaxing massage felt like a nice way to slow down.

For food lovers, fresh fish fry is another experience worth trying if it is available during your visit.

And, of course, no friends' trip is complete without plenty of photos and videos!

We spent time singing, dancing, making reels, laughing and capturing random moments that would later become some of our favourite memories from the trip.

Sometimes these simple moments become the best part of travelling.

A Natural Picnic Spot

What makes this place special is its simplicity.

There are no elaborate attractions or perfectly arranged tourist facilities. Instead, you get sand, rocks, enormous trees, hills and the flowing Cauvery.

You can sit beneath a tree, talk with your friends, enjoy a homemade meal, take a dip in the river or simply lie back and listen to the water.

We spent around two to three hours here, and it felt surprisingly peaceful despite the number of people around.

If you're planning to cook or carry food, remember to respect the surroundings and leave the place clean. The charm of Biligundlu lies precisely in its natural character.

A Visit to the Hilltop Ranganatha Swamy Temple

After spending time by the river, we headed towards another beautiful part of Biligundlu — the Ranganatha Swamy Temple.

Located on a hill near the Cauvery, the temple is reached by a stone pathway and offers a peaceful contrast to the excitement of the river.

The temple is known for its rock-carved idol of Lord Vishnu in a reclining form and is an important place of worship for devotees.

But even beyond its religious significance, the location itself makes the visit worthwhile.

It is a place of worship for many devotees and is known for its rock-carved idol of Lord Vishnu in reclining form.  

From the hill, you can look out towards the river and the surrounding hills. The landscape seems to stretch endlessly, with the Cauvery winding through the rocky terrain below.

A Day Well Spent

Biligundlu may not be the kind of destination that appears on every tourist's itinerary, and perhaps that is exactly what makes it special.

If you're looking for a peaceful place to get together with friends, enjoy the outdoors and spend time beside a wild and beautiful river, Biligundlu offers a wonderful little escape into nature.

Sometimes, you don't need a luxury resort or a packed itinerary.

All you need is a winding road, a flowing river, a few good friends — and a day with nowhere else to be.

A Day in Mysore: Palaces, Temples, Gardens & Royal Charm

Mysore, officially known as Mysuru, is a city where royal history, magnificent architecture, spiritual traditions, colorful markets, and local flavors come together beautifully. If you have just one day to explore this fascinating city, a well-planned sightseeing tour can take you through some of its most memorable landmarks.

From the historic streets of Srirangapatna to the magnificent Mysore Palace and the peaceful Brindavan Gardens, a day trip to Mysore is packed with experiences.

An Early Morning Start from Bangalore

The journey begins early, with a pickup from Silk Board Junction in Bangalore at around 6:00 AM. The drive to Mysore is approximately 145–150 km and usually takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

An early start gives you plenty of time to explore Mysore without feeling rushed. We had a small break for break fast.

Exploring Historic Srirangapatna

The sightseeing journey begins with the historic town of Srirangapatna, an island town surrounded by the River Cauvery and closely associated with the history of Tipu Sultan.

The tour includes an outer view of Tipu Fort, followed by Jamia Masjid and the historic Water Gate. Although these stops are viewed from outside, they offer a glimpse into the architectural and historical character of the region.

One of the important attractions is Tipu Gumbaz, the impressive mausoleum associated with Tipu Sultan and his family. The site provides an opportunity to learn more about the history of the Mysore Kingdom.

The visit continues to the Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, one of the region's important religious landmarks. Its traditional architecture and spiritual atmosphere add a different dimension to the day's sightseeing.

Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple

A Glimpse of Mysore's Heritage

From Srirangapatna, the journey continues toward Mysore, where history and architecture take center stage.

One of the city's most recognizable landmarks is St. Philomena's Roman Catholic Church. With its striking Gothic-inspired architecture and towering spires, the church is an impressive sight and one of Mysore's well-known attractions.

St. Philomena's Roman Catholic Church

By around 1:00 PM, it is time for a lunch break. 

Shopping at N.I. Kauvery Emporium

After lunch, there is time to experience Mysore's shopping culture at N.I. Kauvery Emporium.

Mysore is known for traditional handicrafts, silk, sandalwood products, and other locally inspired items. A short shopping stop is a good opportunity to browse for souvenirs or something special to take home.

The Magnificent Mysore Palace

No trip to Mysore feels complete without visiting the magnificent Mysore Maharaja Palace.

The palace is a spectacular example of royal architecture, featuring grand halls, elaborate decorations, intricate designs, and beautiful interiors. Walking around the palace grounds gives visitors a glimpse into the history and grandeur of the Wadiyar dynasty.

The palace is particularly memorable for travelers interested in architecture, history, and India's royal heritage.

A Visit to Chamundi Hills

Next, the journey heads toward Chamundi Hills, one of Mysore's most important landmarks.

At the top of the hill stands the revered Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari. The hill also offers beautiful panoramic views of Mysore and the surrounding landscape.

On the way back, the tour includes a stop at the famous Bull Temple, where visitors can see the enormous Nandi statue from outside. Carved from stone, the massive statue is one of the city's recognizable landmarks.

Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Temple

Evening at Brindavan Gardens

As the day begins to wind down, the final major sightseeing stop is Brindavan Gardens, located near the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam.

The gardens are known for their carefully landscaped lawns, fountains, pathways, and evening atmosphere. As daylight fades, the gardens take on a different character, making this a relaxing way to conclude a busy day of sightseeing.

Among the most loved attractions near Mysore is the KRS Musical Fountain at Brindavan Gardens. Hundreds of visitors gather here every evening to enjoy the colorful light show, dancing water jets, and music. The fountain show has been operational for many years but remains one of the top highlights for tourists visiting the spot.

A day in Mysore may pass quickly, but the experiences can stay with you for a long time. From the historic remains of Srirangapatna and the spiritual atmosphere of its temples to the grandeur of Mysore Palace, the views from Chamundi Hills, and the peaceful beauty of Brindavan Gardens, every stop offers something different.

Mysore is a city where royal history meets everyday life. Its palaces, temples, churches, markets, gardens, and local flavors create a memorable experience for anyone looking for a short getaway from Bangalore.

If you're planning a one-day trip, an early start and a well-organized itinerary make it possible to experience many of Mysore's iconic attractions in a single day.

Bannerghatta National Park: A Wild Escape Near Bengaluru

 

Located on the outskirts of Bengaluru, Bannerghatta National Park is a popular destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time surrounded by nature and wildlife.

This was my first visit to Bannerghatta National Park, and my main attraction was the wildlife safari—a guided ride through the park's protected wildlife enclosures. If you enjoy animals, nature, and a little adventure, the safari is definitely an experience worth trying.

Reaching Bannerghatta National Park

After entering the park, the first thing we did was head towards the safari boarding area. The shelter houses are located on the left-hand side of the entrance. This is where visitors need to queue up and wait for their turn to board the safari bus.

The entry ticket cost us ₹100, while the safari ticket was ₹350. There was a bit of a wait before we could board the bus, but the excitement of seeing wild animals up close made it worthwhile.

The Safari Begins

Once the bus started moving, the atmosphere immediately changed. The sounds of the city seemed far away, and we were surrounded by greenery.

The park covers more than 100 square kilometres and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The safari takes visitors through protected enclosures where animals can be observed in a more natural environment.

As our bus moved deeper into the safari area, everyone was eagerly looking through the windows, hoping to spot something interesting.

And we were lucky!

During our safari, we got the opportunity to see tigers, lions, and deer. Seeing these magnificent animals from the safari bus was thrilling. Every time someone spotted an animal, excitement spread through the bus as everyone tried to get a better view.

Apart from the larger animals, the park is also home to deer and a variety of birds. For wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, there are plenty of moments that make you want to keep your camera ready.

A 45-Minute Wildlife Experience

The safari ride usually takes around 45 minutes. Although it may sound short, there is plenty to see along the way.

The experience is quite different from simply visiting a zoo. Sitting inside a moving safari bus and watching animals in large, protected enclosures give you a sense of being on a real wildlife excursion.

After the safari, you can ask the bus driver to drop you near the Butterfly Park, which is along the route back toward the point where the safari ride ends.

Exploring the Butterfly Park

The Butterfly Park is another interesting stop during the visit. It has two main sections: a butterfly museum and a small butterfly park.

Inside the museum, you can see preserved butterflies and their remains, along with displays related to these beautiful insects.

After spending some time at the Butterfly Park, we continued towards the zoo.

Exploring the Zoo

The main entrance of the zoo is approximately 600 metres from the Butterfly Park, so it is an easy walk.

The zoo has several sections dedicated to different types of animals. You can find areas for carnivorous animals, birds, bats, owls, and herbivores.

Walking through the different sections gives you another opportunity to observe a wide variety of wildlife after experiencing the safari.

My first visit to Bannerghatta National Park turned out to be an enjoyable combination of wildlife, nature, and adventure. The safari was undoubtedly the highlight of the trip, especially the excitement of spotting tigers, lions, and deer along the way.

If you are visiting Bengaluru and want to spend a day away from the city's busy streets, Bannerghatta National Park offers a memorable experience. Whether you are interested in wildlife, butterflies, photography, or simply want to spend some time surrounded by nature, there is plenty to explore.

For me, the safari was more than just a ride—it was a chance to experience a little taste of the wild, right on the outskirts of Bengaluru.

One-day trip in Chikkaballapur.

I was looking for a thrilling road trip from Bangalore with rejuvenating nature retreats and historical significance. Finally I got a chance to visit a few beautiful places in Chikkaballapur, a charming town near Bangalore.

Bhoga Nandeshwara Temple was our first destination. It is beautifully situated at the foothills of the Nandi Hills. It is roughly 60 km from Bangalore, making it a popular short getaway.

History states that the temple dates back  to over 1,000 years, with contributions from the Chola, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara dynasties.  It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Bhoga Nandeshwara. The architecture is a mix of Dravidian styles, with intricately carved pillars and serene courtyards.The temple complex is also the origin point of the Arkavathi River.

The old Ratha outside the temple greets you as you enter this ancient temple dating back to the 9th Century. Built by the Nolamba Dynasty and later extended by the Vijaynagara Kings, this is the oldest temple of Nolamba construction in Karnataka

Chariot in front of the temple

The temple houses three different temples: the Arunachaleshwara Temple, the Uma Maheshwara Temple, and the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple. The Arunachaleshwara temple represents the childhood of Lord Shiva, the Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple depicts the youthful phase of Lord Shiva, and the Uma Maheswara temple depicts the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

View of the large Maha mantapa (main hall), a Vijayanagara Empire era construction 

Window carving on outer wall of the Arunachaleshswara shrine

This stepwell is probably one of the highlights of the Temple. It's beautiful construction makes it one of the most picturesque spots in the temple

Kalyani (temple tank)

Had lunch at 2 pm.  The next place on our chart was Nandi Hills. This place is lovely early in the morning but gets hot during the day.  Then a short walk from the parking slot to the peak. We strolled through the lush green pathways.

We went to a temple dedicated to Lord  Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It was a small stone edifice with a small sanctum.

 

We walked for a while taking in the fresh air of the hills. We explored the amazing view from the peak and relaxed for a while.

Then we started our descent. There were stalls selling fruits near the parking area. By 4 PM, we started towards Isha Foundation.

Nestled in the tranquil surroundings at the base of Nandi Hills, the 112-foot Adiyogi statue is the centerpiece of the complex and symbolizes the first yogi. We explored the surroundings. The main attraction is the Adiyogi Divya Darshanam, which  is a 15-minute laser projection show that narrates the story and significance of Adiyogi. By 7 PM. we were anxiously waiting for the light show. The imaging show is accompanied by a narration by Sadhguru, the founder of Isha Foundation.

By around 8 PM, we headed back to Bangalore.