Soulful Sojourns

In November 2023, I had the opportunity to visit Kasol, a picturesque destination located in Parvati Valley. To make the most of my trip, I decided to book a hostel in Parvati Valley, which is known for its affordable rooms catering to backpackers. During my four-day stay, I primarily explored the area by riding scooters. Kasol is truly a beautiful place, surrounded by majestic mountains and abundant greenery. Its vibrant hippie culture has made it a popular spot for Israelis. In Kasol, there are three Hosteller properties available: Hosteller Kasol, Hosteller Parvati Valley, and Hosteller Riverside. I chose to stay at Hosteller Parvati Valley in Kasol, where my room offered a spacious bathroom and a small balcony that provided a great spot for stargazing. The room itself was of standard quality and came equipped with a hot kettle, crockery, and coffee pouches. What I particularly loved about this place was the breathtaking view from my room. The front wall featured a transparent glass...

During my last solo trip to Goa in August 2023, I stayed in a 6-bed bunk at Zostel. This was my first experience staying in a hostel, so let me explain what Zostel is and then share my viewpoint on it. Zostel is a relatively new concept in India, but it is quite popular among backpackers in the West. They offer various dormitory options depending on your requirements and budget. The mixed dorms accommodate any gender and have 4 to 8 bunk beds. Additionally, there are private and deluxe rooms available for couples. Zostel also provides a cafeteria area with drinks and a swimming pool facility. The washroom and bathing area are shared if you book a dormitory. Personally, what I enjoyed about staying in Zostel was the opportunity to meet diverse people from different backgrounds. Even though I don't drink, I would spend my time sitting at the cafeteria area/bar. They also had a swimming and gaming zone, as well as a dedicated work station for remote workers. The vibe at Zostel is quit...

My stay in Pondicherry was truly enchanting, with its magical atmosphere of clear skies, a full moon, and the soothing sounds of the ocean waves. I had the pleasure of staying at a beautiful Airbnb, which was a cozy apartment with a terrace. Additionally, there was also the option to climb up to the water tank terrace and enjoy a panoramic view of the entire White Town. It's important to note that the area is quiet and located in a small lane within the charming fishing village of Kuruchikuppam. It is within walking distance of the White Town or French Quarter, which is the main part of Pondicherry. The building is just one lane away from the sea, so please refrain from playing loud music at night. The space itself is private and safe, surrounded by small village houses. One of the joys of living in our quaint fishing village is the presence of friendly street dogs and cats, cared for by the older ladies who sit outside their homes. You will surely love the vibrant atmosphere, and ...

This is a brief blog where I will share my review of a lovely homestay we stayed at in Goa. This particular homestay is located in Candolim and is surrounded by lush greenery. It is a peaceful place with natural beauty all around. The homestay is called Onastay-Manolita and consists of a 1-bedroom apartment with a terrace and balcony. The living room has a TV and a kitchen area with utensils. It is an ideal place for three or four people. The bedroom has a double bed and there is a sofa cum bed in the living room that can accommodate another adult. The apartment has two complete bathrooms. It cost me around INR 13440 for 4 nights and 5 days. During the off-season, you can get a deal for INR 3500 - INR 4000 per night. The homestay is part of a housing society with a swimming pool. It is a gated society with a watchman and CCTV cameras installed. The staff is also very cooperative and you can easily rent a scooter for 400-500 per day. This homestay is conveniently located near major tour...

Happy New Year 2024  Today marks the end of the year and we are just a few minutes away from 2024. It's amazing how 2028 seems so much closer than 2018. This past year has truly added new dimensions to my life like no other. I have had the opportunity to travel frequently and prioritize myself, even if it meant staying at home and backpacking for new adventures. I am truly grateful for all the experiences and growth this year has brought me. I want to take a moment to appreciate each and every one of you for your efforts in breaking societal norms and fake expectations. We are all fighting our own internal battles, constantly striving to find happiness and express ourselves. There are moments when everything feels unclear and lacking purpose, and our desires often clash with our responsibilities. It can be a chaotic and unpredictable world we live in. But in the midst of all the turmoil, there is always a glimmer of hope. This hope encourages us to remain optimistic and have faith ...

My trip to Shantiniketan took place before the COVID-19 pandemic. Before we proceed, let me explain where Shantiniketan is located and why it is famous. As a native of West Bengal, I can attest to the state's rich traditions in culture, art, and history. Bengal has produced numerous freedom fighters and well-known personalities. Shantiniketan served as a residential school and art center that drew inspiration from ancient Indian traditions and aimed to foster unity among humanity, transcending religious and cultural boundaries. Rabindranath Tagore, a renowned figure, founded Visva Bharati University, and it is also the place where he spent his last days. Another notable personality associated with Shantiniketan is Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen, who used to reside in the area. Shantiniketan is situated in Bolpur, Birbhum district, approximately 150 km away from Kolkata. The closest railway station is Bolpur, where you can disembark and then take an e-rickshaw to reach Visva Bharati Uni...