Friday, 6 October 2023

 Friday, 6 October 2023

It was now time to bid adieu to Meghalaya & travel to Assam. A sure sign that our Meghalaya vacation was coming to an end. Today we will be checking out from Hotel Centre Point at Shillong (Meghalaya) & would be driving to Guwahati (Assam). But as per the travel itinerary designed by the 50+ organizers we had one more tourist spot to visit in Meghalaya. Umiam Lake.

When we had booked the Meghalaya tour Geetha & myself quickly looked up the places in the travel itinerary we were to visit. So, I was looking forward to visiting Umiam Lake. I remember reading a few days back that “Meghalaya has adopted Artificial Intelligence enabled robotic technology to keep it's beautiful tourist hotspot Umiam lake clean, as the lake at an altitude of about 4,900 feet is also a major hub for water sports and boating in hill town Shillong.”

After a quick breakfast, we checked out of the Shillong hotel and after about an hour’s drive we reached Lake Umiam. But to our disappointment boating and other water sports activity was not allowed at that time as the lake was full and almost overflowing. So, our activity was limited to admiring the beauty from the shore & clicking selfies & fotos.

The authorities had constructed a canopy walk way along the shore of the lake. The voyagers had a nice time walking along this way. But this was a short one & the walk lasted less than 5 minutes. This was an elevated path constructed with wooden planks with railing on both the sides. It was an enjoyable experience using this walk way.

Having nothing else to do here, we boarded the bus on our journey towards Guwahati. After a short Tea break at Hotel Jeeva we continued our road travel & reached Hotel Gateway Grandeur at Guwahati by 1:30 PM. After check in the voyagers had a filling lunch at the inhouse restaurant (Florentine). Rutuja wanted us to relax for some time before leaving for the river cruise at Brahmaputra.

We had been reading about floods caused due to overflowing of the Brahmaputra River almost every year. Even about a couple of days back, when we were at Cherrapunji news arrived that Brahmaputra was overflowing & several villages were damaged. Having seen the Umiam lake overflowing a couple of hours back I was not very hopeful about the Brahmaputra cruise materializing.

By 4:00 PM we got into the bus for the river cruise. On arriving at the river front the Brahmaputra River looked calm & serene. The cruise, it seemed, would materialize after all! Rutu purchased the tickets & all of us boarded the vessel.

Cozy seating arrangements were available. In sets of 6, the voyagers picked their chairs & waited for the vessel to start. The vessel had a capacity of around 50 passengers, out of which the voyagers numbering 21/22 formed the single largest group inside the vessel. There were a few young couple, a couple with 2 school going children and a couple of families with family members aged 3 to 60.

At around 5:00 PM the vessel started sailing, and the attendants, placed light snacks on all the tables. Option of tea / coffee / soft drinks was available. The snacks & beverages I believe were part of the ticket cost. For those interested, alcoholic beverages were available for a separate cost.

As the passengers were enjoying their snacks & tea, the in-house musician started singing the omnipresent bolly wood hindi film songs. He started with a slow number & as the pace picked up the voyagers entered the dancing stage & started enjoying themselves. Rutuja ensured that not a single person was left out & each and every one participated in the dance.

The other passengers were wonderstruck seeing senior citizens dance spiritedly. Depending on the nature of songs one could see disco, samba, tango, hiphop, Zumba and what not on the dancing floor.  Not to be left out of all the fun, the youngsters, the couples, the family, practically every one in the vessel except a couple of very senior citizens joined the dance session. Gradually the karaoke music was replaced with DJ music. The DJ gradually increasing the tempo of the music. When the positive energy level and the good vibes was at its highest, when the music was at its crescendo the DJ ended his show & ensured that his guests left the ship in high spirits & a very joyous mood.

By the time we de boarded from the vessel it was 6:15 PM. A few voyagers opted for shopping. The rest returned to the hotel. After freshening up we reached the dining room by 8:00 PM. It was not a surprise to find that long after the dinner got over the voyagers were unwilling to go to their respective rooms to retire for the day. Everyone was aware that this was probably the last opportunity to have a relaxed chat with their new 50+ friends.  The next day morning would see most of us visiting the Kamakhya temple where the atmosphere would be totally different.

Back in the room I spent some time with my e reader and went to bed by 11:45 PM.

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Thursday, 5 October 2023

 

Thursday morning yet again saw most of us getting up to an alarm set at 6:00 AM. It was time to bid adieu to Cherrapunjee & return to Shillong. That meant a long drive and that too with a couple of sight-seeing scheduled enroute.

Mac had indicated a tentative time of 8:30 AM to board the bus and start our drive back to Shillong. After a comfortable bath & sumptuous breakfast the voyagers assembled for a group foto with the home stay in the background.

The drivers of the 2 vehicles promptly requested for a group foto of the voyagers along with the home stay staff - with the home stay resort & the 2 buses in the background.

 

 

We boarded the buses and managed to start our drive by 8:45 AM. The climate was pleasant. It started drizzling making the climate slightly colder. 

Our first halt was the Elephant waterfalls. This was situated at a distance of around 55 kms from the cherrapunjee resort where we stayed for the past 2 nights & it took us around two and half hours to reach this place. By now it had started raining moderately & the voyagers had to pull out their umbrellas and/or rain jackets. This seemed to be a popular water fall. It consisted of 3 layers of water falls and was accessible from different viewpoints. The first fall is wide and is hidden behind trees. The second one seemed to have some turbulence & the third one is very wide and clearly visible, flows like a milky sheet. However, to reach the third stage one had to climb down around a hundred stairs, which was worth it. Probably because it was raining when we visited, the falls looked filled with water unlike the seven sister’s waterfall. Also, the stairs were uneven & in some places slippery.

 

 

 

At this point, one of the voyagers, Beena, had to curtail her trip & had to return to Mumbai due to an emergency in her immediate family. Luckily, her travel agent could arrange the tickets immediately.

 

Our next halt was at the Don Bosco Museum. This was not just a museum but was a place where I could see and experience the lifestyle, occupation, attire and a whole lot of other aspects about the local tribal society. The museum itself was an imposing 7 storey structure which has a must-see sky walk which gives one a 360-degree view of the Shillong city.

 

The museum had several galleries in the 7 storeys such as musical instrument gallery, culture gallery, language museum, ornaments gallery, art gallery, culture gallery, costume gallery, weapons gallery, fishing / hunting gallery & several other galleries which I could not remember now. 

 

  

 

Most galleries have a touch screen facility where the visitors can get to know more about these aspects.

One gallery which I found very interesting was the “Our neighbour’s gallery” which showcases the neighboring countries surrounding the North East of India – namely Nepal, Bhutan, China, Tibet, Myanmar & Bangladesh. 

The museum had a small theater where visitors could view an 8-minute video. A few members from our group missed the video. Seeing the video before starting the tour of the museum made sense to me, as we were getting a fair idea of what was in store.

Mac had planned for the voyagers to cover the museum in a systematic manner. Take a lift, go to the top, experience the 360-degree sky walk, see the video & start seeing the galleries one by one as you start descending the stairs. 

The museum had a small shop at which one could buy souvenirs and other local items such shawl/ tea/ turmeric powder, etc
Rutuja had “sanctioned” one hour for the museum visit, but for a person who is genuinely interested in such matters atleast 3 to 4 hours would be required.

After a satisfying hour at the museum, (which ended with many voyagers buying something from the shop) we had lunch at a local hotel & checked into Hotel Centre Point. Geetha & me, and I believe, some of the other voyagers got the same room which was allotted to us earlier when we first checked in to this hotel.

It was time to say good bye to Mac, our friend & local guide of the past 5 days. The voyagers had collected (and handed over) a purse, for Mac & the drivers.

After a relaxed evening, we had our dinner & retired to bed with the sound of a live band coming from the street across the hotel.

Having completed the Black Shrike, I started “Time of the Assassins” a novel by Alastair McNeill based on the outline of a story by Alistair MacLean.

 

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Wednesday, 4 October 2023

 

 

Readers would remember my mentioning in the earlier chapter that 8 out of 21 voyagers opted to visit the double decker root bridge. And 2 out of the 8 included yours truly & Geetha. The other 6 being Beena, Dr Somappa, Chhaya, Acchar Guptaji & the brother sister duo of Shashikala & Mahendra.

Given the nature of the outing it was important for us to be physically and mentally ready for the double decker root bridge ‘trek’.

We had set the alarm for 4:00 AM. After getting up (without hitting the snooze button) we had a refreshing tea in the room, completed our morning chores & got ready by 5:30 AM. Packed sandwiches were ready. The bus that was to take us was ready with our guide for the day, a young fellow named Fredrick. We left by 5:45 AM. A short drive of around 4 kilometres brought us to the gateway “welcome to Tyrna Elaka Tourism”. Our walk was to begin from here.

We started by 6:00 AM & were probably the first trekkers to start for the day. Fredrick, though he was a youngster of around 20 years, seemed to be veteran. On enquiring he informed that he is studying in college and guides tourists like us to double decker bridge on part time basis. On an average he does this atleast once a week. He confirmed that not many trekkers start so early & that we were sure to complete this comfortably.

The stairs down to the bridge were of 3 different types. The first stage was a bit steep but broad & comfortable, in the second stage the stairs were approx. 6 inches in height but were quite narrow & the final stage was a combination of climbing up & then down again.

As it was quite early and since we had no other trekkers, we could hear the “sound of nature” as we walked. Birds and crickets chirping, sounds of waterfall from the distance, sound of leaves waving in the wind… This would be an experience I would remember for a long long time. Between the 8 of us & Fredrick, we ensured that at any point of time, no person would walk alone. It was always a group of 2 or more. 

Though it was chilly when we started, it gradually started becoming a bit humid, I was happy that I had 2 layers of tops & could easily remove the top jacket when it started getting a bit hotter. I was also happy for the trekking pole that I had brought along, though the locals were happy to lend a stout bamboo staff for a nominal fee. 

We crossed 3 bridges on our way & could see the double decker bridge by around 8:20 AM. By 8:30 AM Fredrick declared that the descent is over & we can now rest. At the end of the first part (we had to reverse and climb back the steps we had descended) I felt that this was more about mental strength than physical prowess.

After a sweltering hike, getting into the pool below the bridge and letting our feet into the cold water was a delightful experience. I heard Fredrick mentioning something about free fish spa to Geetha & I wanted to experience this. In one particular spot when you let your feet soak into the cold water, myriads of small cat fish start nipping away at your feet. It was weird initially, but you gradually get used to this within a couple of minutes. I was told that the dead skin in your body is eaten away. Fredrick arranged for piping hot tea, so having your feet soaked in cold water, tiny cat fish nipping away at your feet & a hot cup of tea in your hands was a most wonderful combination. We also devoured the packed sandwiches here.

 

After enjoying the water, and having several MBs of photos taken we reluctantly started our return journey by 10:15 AM. Half an hour into our return journey it started raining slightly, I felt it was quite refreshing to have this mild drizzle. Also it made us extra careful whilst climbing up which was a change from the monotony of having to climb climb & climb. One by one, we reached the top by 12:30 PM. After another round of tea, the group of eight boarded the bus & reached the hotel. A small token of our gratitude was handed over to Fredrick who gratefully accepted the same. I had a hot shower & reached the dining room for a quick lunch which was followed by a well-deserved rest with my e reader.

The organisers had arranged a live band for a relaxed evening. Voyagers joined the music and danced a bit. It was Shobhana’s birthday & Rutu had thoughtfully arranged for a birthday cake. We had cake cutting & the live band also rendered Happy Birthday song. In short it was a very happy evening. 

Shikha who had introduced herself as a classical musician on day one sang one song which was well appreciated by one & all.  After a sumptuous dinner I retired to bed with my e reader & completed Black Shrike.

 

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Tuesday, 3 October 2023

After a long and tiring but immensely enjoyable day yesterday, we got up early today morning & hit the breakfast table by 7:30 AM. Rutuja had instructed to keep our baggage duly packed and outside our room before heading to the breakfast table.

At 8:15 AM we checked out of the hotel. Our first halt was at Mawphlang Sacred Forest which we reached by 9:30 AM. Rutu informed that Mac would be joining us at the forest site directly. After gathering the voyagers, Mac gave a short introductory talk about the forest, the dos and don’ts. He explained the traditions, practices and other peculiarities. If I remember Mac’s talk correctly there are around 125 sacred forests in Meghalaya. These forests are important because they have some very old and special types of trees and plants which helps nature stay healthy. The climatic conditions of these forests support growth of rare plants which probably could not be found anywhere else in the earth.

Post Mac’s short talk, the voyagers took an hour-long stroll in the forest. It was a very serene feeling. Amongst the several species of trees and plants I can now remember only one name - Rudraksh tree – which holds religious significance to Hindus.

After experiencing absolute bliss & peace during the hour-long stroll in the sacred forest, the next destination was Orange Roots, where we stopped for lunch. 

After lunch we visited Nohkalikai waterfall. When we reached the site, we could see only fog & clouds, and hear a waterfall, but could not see the waterfall. The voyagers were disappointed. But Rutu informed that if we wait for some time the clouds may move and the waterfall will be visible. We waited patiently, but the wait was worth it. Gradually the clouds moved, the fog disappeared and a breathtaking scenery unfolded before our eyes. It is impossible to explain in mere words and capture in pictures the grandeur which nature provides. One should witness it to experience it! As per Wikipedia this is the tallest plunge waterfall in India & its height is 340 metres. Below the falls is a plunge pool with water of an unusual shade of green. 

 

No one was ready to leave the place, but we had a couple of more places to visit before checking into the resort at Cherrapunjee. After experiencing Nohkalikai waterfall we visited the Nohsngithiang waterfall (the Mawsmai Falls) which is supposed to be a seven segmented waterfall and also referred to as the seven sister’s waterfall. However, we did not spend much time here as there was not much water. We could however see the plains of Bangladesh beyond the hills. 

 

Rutu had also arranged for us to to visit Mawsmai caves which was next on our agenda for the day. After experiencing the vast open sky it was time to enter a cave where one may have to probably crawl to get through! At the entrance we met a couple of youngsters (for a group whose average age was 60 years a 30/ 32 year old would certainly qualify as an youngster) who saw the age profile of our group & ‘warned’ us that we would not be able to make it. They added that they started their journey into the cave & returned back after a couple of minutes as they were afraid to go ahead. But inspite of this ‘warning’ Rutu’s encouraging words ensured that 19 out of 21 members agreed for this mini adventure. The 2 who had decided not to join were having genuine issues which prevented them from participating in this little adventure.

The passage inside the caves were at places very narrow that one had to literally bend their body & squeeze between the rocks. The surface was rugged limestone. In most places, the interiors were dimly-lit. The voyagers experienced low overhangs & uneven footing in several places along the way. Given the age profile of the group members for some of us it took more time than what would have otherwise taken. But each & every one of those who had signed up for this adventure completed it successfully. A mini entertainment awaited every one when we completed the adventure. A live band was belting out popular Bollywood numbers and a mini dancing stage was available for those who wished to shake a leg (& their bodies). Few members took to this dancing stage. After a bite of a couple of chunks of tasty pine apple and a vigorous dancing session, the group left for the holiday resort in high spirits. We would be spending tonight & the next in Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort. 

 

After the mini adventure inside the Mawsmai caves another major adventure which could probably test one’s mental strength & physical stamina awaited. Voyagers who are interested had an option of visiting the double decker root bridge the next day. Now it was Rutu’s (who had encouraged all group members to participate in the Mawsmai cave) turn to warn potential participants about the nature of trip to the double decker root bridge. One has to start as early as possible, packed break fast would be provided, and the physical effort would involve getting down around 3500 steps cut in the mountain to reach the bridge. This was half the story. One has to climb up the 3500 steps to complete the trip. If it started raining it would queer the pitch further for the participants. 8 out of the 21 voyagers decided to take up this challenging task.

Rutuja had planned an alternative itinerary for those not visiting the double decker root bridge.

After an early dinner post reaching the resort, the voyagers retired to bed. I spent an hour with Black Shrike. At this rate I felt I should be able to complete this novel by tomorrow.

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Introduction

After having done our maiden trip with the 50plus voyagers’ group – Odisha in December 2022 – my better half Geetha & me were on the lookout for a suitable second trip. The opportunity presented itself in the form of a promotional email from the group describing the North east part of India, specifically Meghalaya. When we visited the website the following image was displayed..

 

Both of us had not visited Meghalaya so far. Geetha had been to Assam, Sikkim during her office days, but again these visits were limited to strictly office work, no sightseeing.

The timing of the Meghalaya trip was perfect, 1^st October to 7^th October. As a Chartered Accountant in practice, the 30^th of September was a critical due date. But the week after that was just perfect for a short vacation. My office staff had assured me that even in the unlikely probability of an extension being granted by the Income Tax Department for filing the audit reports, they would complete the pending work.

We paid up the booking amount and the balance amount and were eagerly looking forward to the first of October 2023.

How & when I started blogging about my travels?

I had dabbled in blogging with some random topics, far and few. My first travel blog materialised when Geetha & me did a trip to South Africa in 2019. This was an international study tour organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. CA members were allowed to bring along their families, Geetha joined me in this tour. I had purchased a high end mobile and wanted to try out its camera. I used my mobile camera extensively during this trip.

After returning from this trip, something made me write out a blog and share it with my fellow travelers and family members. Much to my surprise, readers of this blog encouraged me to keep up this good work and requested me to chronicle my experience whenever I travel in future. Much later, I too realized that I can actually re live the trip whenever I go through my blogs. This made me write out blogs of my subsequent travels.

Covid struck in 2020 & any immediate travel was out of question.

My next major travel was the Markha Valley trek in 2022. This was with my trekking friends.

Odisha trip in December 2022 with 50 plus voyagers

Khopra Ridge trek (Nepal) in April 2023 with a trek group &

now the Meghalaya trip again with 50 plus voyagers in October 2023.

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