The Museum of Fine Arts in Vienna is the largest art museum in Austria. This blog will take you on a discovery of one of the most impressive displays of artwork in the world. The museum is home to a vast array of rare artistic treasures acquired by the Imperial family of Austria, the Habsburgs, during their reign, among many other intriguing artworks. Reaching the Museum of Fine Arts Vienna The Kunsthistorisches Museum is situated on the Vienna Ring Road facing the stunning monument of Maria-Theresien-Platz. The building of the museum is a massive palatial complex with an impressive octagonal dome. On the opposite side of the plaza lies the Natural History Museum, with its exterior absolutely identical to that of this museum. Many tourists choose to spend their time at the plaza, taking pictures and ogling at its intricate bronze statues of the plaza. But if you have time and the inclination to see some great art collections, then a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts is a must. And this is exactly what we did... Exploring the Museum of Fine Arts Vienna The Grand Staircase As you enter, you are awed by the sheer magnificence of the interiors. The elaborate sculptures at the top of the Grand Staircase, the intricate panelwork on the sky-high ceiling at the entrance foyer and the beautifully laid-out Mozaic floor will leave you spellbound even before you venture into the museum chambers. The Egyptian Collection The tour of the museum starts with a visit to the Egyptian collection. Most artefacts owe their origins to the excavations on the rocky plateau of Giza. The Egyptian collection is really exhaustive. Please remember that the audio guide is not included in the ticket and is available separately for € 8 each. I would recommend opting for an audio guide; it enhances the experience. There is so much to see all around that one would feel quite lost without a guide to navigate their way through the museum. Each artefact has a number corresponding to the number on your audio guide. So, you can see the museum at your own pace. You are allowed to take pictures, which is great. Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities The second part of the museum houses the Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities. There are artefacts of Greek ceramic art and Roman art, busts, plates, carved bowls, face masks, Roman portraits and statues, all carved to perfection, that transported us into the classical world. The Picture Gallery The third and most interesting part of the museum is the Picture Gallery. This is one of the largest art galleries in the world, and the majority of it has been developed from the collections of the House of Habsburgs, the reigning monarchs of Austria. The collection showcases art from the 17th century with beautiful paintings of prominent Italian, German and Venetian painters. One painting, among many others, that caught my attention was this masterpiece by Guido Cagnacci, Cleopatra's Suicide - There are many more amazing paintings in the gallery, one more intriguing than the other. The audio guide gives a detailed narrative of each painting. We sat comfortably on the couch in front of the paintings and listened to the commentary. We spent a good hour here, and it was totally worth it. Coin Collection Another interesting section of the museum is the Coin Collection. With almost 600,000 collectables, this is one of the most important coin collections in the world. Every possible kind of money, metallic, paper and medallions are displayed here. The history of the invention of coins and their adaptability to the times has been put on display very nicely. Kunstkammer Wien, the Cradle of the Museum On the ground floor of the museum is the Kunstkammer Wien, or the Cradle of the Museum. There are over 2200 beautiful artworks on display here, stunning artworks studded with precious stones, ornate clocks, bronze statuettes and so many other exotic and strange objects. Let me close by saying that most people visiting museums are not connoisseurs of art. In my opinion, one doesn't have to be one to appreciate beauty, in whichever form one sees it. I would highly recommend a visit to this museum while in Vienna, since this museum, with its magnificent exteriors and opulent interiors, is the epitome of man-made beauty!

Planning a trip to Vienna? This Vienna Travel Guide covers the best things to do in Vienna, must-see attractions, and practical tips to help you explore Austria's elegant capital. As per the Global Liveability Index 2023, Vienna is the most liveable city in the world. The city is squeaky clean and has excellent infrastructure in terms of public transport, with connectivity to all the important landmarks, tourist-friendly people and stunning architecture strewn across the entire city. Baroque* buildings dating to the 17th and 18th centuries and old Gothic** structures steeped in history have been very well preserved and now stand alongside some beautiful neo-classical buildings, rendering this bustling metropolis an old-world charm. Vienna Travel Tips: Things to Know Before You Go 5 days sounds like a lot to explore a city, but believe me, there is so much to do and see in Vienna that 5 days would just fly by. I would recommend at least 3 to 4 full days to experience Vienna at ease. Every nook and corner of the city is laden with stunning art and architecture. Keep aside some time to walk along the beautiful boulevards of the city to see the many amazing artworks strewn across the city in the form of water fountains and statues. I've mentioned some walking tips in this blog as we go over the attractions. There are many museums in Vienna, each one more enriching than the other. I always mention in all my blogs that one should be picky when it comes to museums. One, they are expensive and time-wise, and it's not feasible to explore all of them. So, pick the ones you would like to see based on your personal choice. For example, the Kunsthistorisches Museum or the Museum of Fine Arts houses the art collection of the famous Habsburg Dynasty. Very close to it is the Naturhistorisches Museum or Museum of Natural History. Both these museums are not for connoisseurs of art but for regular visitors. We visited the Art History Museum. It was stunning, to say the least. Art pieces from many parts of the world have been put on display here. Worth the effort. Natural History Museum, as the name implies, is all about evolution. If you're travelling with kids, then it can be a good experience for them. There is also the option to buy the Vienna Pass. It grants entry to 60 major attractions, including the coveted Hofburg Palace with its museums. We did not buy the pass because many attractions still require advance bookings, and the pass has to be shown to fetch tickets at many places. To cut a long story short, I thought the pass was too much of a hassle with very little flexibility to manoeuvre and not value for money. For travel within the city, buying a Travel Pass for 2, 3 or more days is a good idea. This ticket offers unlimited travel on any kind of public transport. Once you buy the ticket, you are expected to validate it the first time while boarding the metro, bus or tram. In Vienna, one gets the feeling that transport is free since no one ever asks you to show the ticket, nor are there any punching machines installed anywhere. But that should not deter anyone from buying tickets. The city transport runs entirely on trust; it says something about the culture of this beautiful city. While in Vienna, do not miss the opportunity to visit a concert or the opera. Vienna Opera is closed in July and August; during this time, a lot of other musical concerts are organised across the city. We visited an opera at the famous Musik Verein, and I've shared my experience in a separate blog with a link pasted below. And last but not least, while in Vienna, try out the Wiener Schnitzel, a thinly sliced piece of meat, breaded and fried, made mostly of pork. And the not-to-miss Sachertorte, a chocolate cake with a dash of apricot jam. 15 Best Places to Visit in Vienna We had 5 days in Vienna and covered these 15 places that every visitor to Vienna should aim to see. Historic Centre of Vienna St. Stephen's Cathedral Hofburg Palace Museums Quartier Maria-Theresien-Platz Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Belvedere Palace Hundertwasserhaus St. Peter's Church Vienna's City Hall Austrian Parliament Mozart Wohnhaus - Residence of Mozart Mariahilfer Strasse, the famous shopping street in Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) Musical Concert/Opera Historic Centre of Vienna The Historic Centre of Vienna is a pedestrian-only zone with famous boulevards like Graben and Kärntner Strasse that connect to the stunning St. Stephan's Cathedral, the beautiful building of the Vienna State Opera and the massive Hofburg complex with its museums and impressive squares. My Tip: Your trip to Vienna would be incomplete without wandering the streets of the Historic Centre. We saw something different every time we happened to cross it. There are many beautiful old buildings, monuments, castles, and parks to be seen. Even if you have less time, plan to spend an evening in the centre to soak in the vibe of the city. St. Stephen's Cathedral This is the heart of Vienna. The stunning, tall Gothic structure juts out into the sky, and you will see hordes of tourists craning their necks to get its spire in one single frame of their cameras. St. Stephen's Cathedral is the Seat of the Archbishop of Vienna. Entry to the cathedral is free, but there are conducted tours available for seeing the catacombs and the 22 bells of the cathedral, the heaviest of which is 3 meters wide and weighs 21 tons. The inside of the cathedral is also stunning, with the gold-panelled ceiling and altar. My Tip: Spend some time in the area around the cathedral called Stephansplatz. The famous street of Vienna, called 'Graben', is here. A little ahead is the 'Kaerntnerstrasse', another famous, elegant street. There are cafes and countless shops. You will see Vienna come alive around this street in the evening. Hofburg Palace, or the Imperial Palace in Vienna In the Inner City or District 1 lies the beautiful Hofburg Palace. The baroque architecture of the palace, with its ornate domes,, is so impressive that you can't help but let out a sigh on seeing it for the first time. It is one of the largest palace complexes in the world. The original palace was built in the 13th century and it was the former imperial palace of the Habsburg Dynasty. A lot of expansions and alterations have been made to the structure over the centuries. The palace has 18 wings, and the President of Austria resides in the Leopoldine Wing of the palace. There are too many things to do and see in the entire complex, which can be quite confusing for first-time visitors. Things to Know before visiting Hofburg Palace The entrance to the palace is super impressive, and you cannot miss it. The colossal dome right on top of the Michaelerplatz is the main entrance from where tours to the museums start. Rows of horse-drawn carriages are lined up in front. You can also opt for a ride around the palace complex. Just around the opposite corner of the Hofburg Entrance is the very famous bakery called 'Demel'. You will see a long queue of people waiting to be seated. You should not leave Vienna without tasting their Sachertorte. Even their Apfel Strudel is to die for. You can jump the queue by just buying take-away stuff and eating it sitting on one of the benches near the palace entrance. The huge palace complex houses many museums, but the 3 not-to-miss are: The Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum and the Imperial Silver Collection. Tickets to these museums come with a very informative audio guide. If you have a Vienna Pass, then access to these two attractions is included in the pass. You will need about 3 hours to see all 3 museums. Stunning artwork around the Hofburg Palace My Tip: These 3 museums display the opulent lifestyle of Austria's iconic Empress Elizabeth, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph, popularly known as Sisi. The young empress was a sportsperson, a fashion icon, a traveller and a poet. Her life has the same tragic shade that overshadowed the life of Princess Diana. The museums are immersive and highly insightful. If you're travelling across Austria, then you will hear the name Sisi quite often while visiting many palaces and museums. So, a visit to this museum can set the tone for all those visits. 3. The Hofburg Palace complex has many beautiful squares. Spend some time walking around. There is Josefplatz, the main public square with its stunning equestrian statue of Emperor Joseph II. The Swiss Court, with its prominent Swiss Gate, is also beautiful. There is also a Spanish Riding School in the complex that organises gala performances where their stallions show their skills in full dressage. Swiss Court As you walk out of the complex, you will reach a beautiful square called Heldenplatz. This is a famous public square where many important historical events took place. Right behind it is the Austrian National Library. The main attraction in the library is the magnificent State Hall. Heldenplatz The building has 3 museums, the Papyrus Museum, Globe Museum and Esperanto Museum. Tickets for this are separate and are not included in the combination ticket of the Hofburg. The Vienna Pass includes entry to the library, though. As I've stated earlier, go for the pass if you wish to see all the museums. We gave it a miss since we'd had our fill of museums for the day. If you have the Vienna Pass, then you can gain entry to the Royal Treasury or Schatzkammer, which is also close by. It's a collection of crown jewels and armoury if you have an interest in it. There are many tour options available to see the Hofburg Palace. You can book advance tickets or even buy them at the counter on the day of your visit. Please refer to the official website for more details/programs https://www.wien.info/en/sightseeing/sights/imperial/hofburg-vienna Museums Quartier Just about a 10-minute walk away from the Heldenplatz is the Museums Quartier, also called MQ. This is a large open area with free access for wandering around. There are many old baroque-style structures, some new buildings and a lot of museums like the Leopold Museum and the Museum of Modern Art within MQ. My Tip: This is for true art lovers. We skipped the museums, although the area itself is beautiful. You will see some very old, yet beautifully maintained structures. If you have a Vienna Pass, then entry to a lot of museums should be included in it. Maria-Theresien-Platz As you walk from MQ a bit further, be prepared to be stunned by this beautiful monument called Maria-Theresien-Platz. This awe-inspiring monument is dedicated to Maria Theresia, the Archduchess of Austria, the only woman and one of the most famous rulers of the Habsburg Dynasty. As a reference point, let me tell you that she was the mother to Marie Antoinette, the infamous queen of France. You can easily spend about an hour wandering around this plaza and taking pictures. On both sides of the plaza, are the two beautiful symmetrical buildings with very impressive domes housing the two famous museums of Austria, the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) and the Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History Museum). Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens We started our day with a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace. The palace served as the Imperial Summer Residence during the reign of Maria Theresia, great-great-grandmother of Franz Joseph, Sisi's husband. Remember Sisi? I told you earlier on that if you're travelling around Austria, then Sisi is a name you'll hear often. Schönbrunn Palace is beautiful, the rooms tell the tales of the opulence of royalty. Audio guides are given as a part of the ticket. My Tip: Entry to the gardens is free. But you need to buy separate tickets for the rest of the attractions, like the Privy Garden and Orangery. One can spend a good 2 hours in the palace and the gardens. Photography inside the palace is strictly prohibited. The entry to the palace is a bit confusing. There are no clear signs anywhere as to where the tour of the palace starts. So, while buying the ticket, please ensure that you know which way you need to start. Belvedere Palace The beautiful Belvedere Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has two beautiful Baroque palaces facing the palace gardens and stables. This historic building is used as an art gallery, exhibiting the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt's paintings, an Austrian symbolist painter. There are also some masterpieces by Monet and van Gogh. My Tip: Belvedere is beautiful, even better than Schönbrunn. The palace has two parts, the Upper and Lower Belvedere. Stick to the Upper Belvedere for its stunning art collection. The gardens are also delightful. But remember, you will need at least 3 hours to see the entire art collection and the palace. Total value for money! Hundertwasserhaus This is an apartment building in Vienna known for its asymmetrical, colourful facade. The exterior of this residential building was designed by the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. My Tip: The architecture is novel, and the concept is interesting. I would not rate it as a strict not-to-miss attraction, though. There is no metro connection. Many buses ply on this route, and the bus stop is quite close by. From Schwedenplatz, we took a tram, Prater Line, towards Hetzgasse and then a 2-minute walk to the houses. St. Peter's Church This baroque church is a gem that gets overshadowed by its more illustrious neighbour, St. Stephen's Cathedral. It is located a little off Graben, huddled between two high buildings. My Tip: If you're wandering in Graben, then take a look at this church. Entry is free, and the interiors are breathtaking. We spent about 30 minutes marvelling at the intricate interiors. Vienna's City Hall If you've seen Stephansplatz, the city centre, then walk about one kilometre to reach the Rathaus or City Hall. The impressive neo-Gothic structure is massive and one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture in Vienna. You will be able to see its spires from a long way off. It is an operational office, the seat of the provincial government, with over 1500 rooms. My Tip: Many sections of the Rathaus are free to visit, but you can gain entry only with a conducted tour. Since it is a working office, you will have to check the website of the city of Vienna for the timings of the tours. https://www.wien.gv.at/english/cityhall/tours.htm We missed the tour of the day since bookings in advance are not possible; one has to wait at the venue to gain entry. There are some very nice eateries around the Rathaus complex, and one can spend some time lazing around. Austrian Parliament Walk another 6 to 7 minutes, and you will reach the Austrian Parliament. This magnificent neoclassical structure is so stunning that words fail me to describe it. The huge white edifice is an operational office and, like the Rathaus, can be seen from the inside with free guided tours. We clicked many pictures from all sides, but none of them did justice to this beautiful structure. My Tip: The tour of the parliament is conducted on weekdays, lasts 85 minutes and is free of cost. The catch is that you have to register beforehand on their official website. Then you get a QR code, which you have to show along with your ID on the day of the tour. We were not aware of this, so we had to skip the tour and never had the time to go back for the tour on another day. Mozart Wohnhaus - Residence of Mozart Mozart lived in Vienna in many different places but his house in Domgasse is the one that has survived. He lived here for 3 years from 1784 to 1787. The house is very close to St. Stephen's Cathedral. I wish someone had told us that earlier. We had to hunt hard to find this house. Google Maps refused to oblige. It just kept taking us in circles. But we had enough time, so we spent a good one hour looking for it. My Tip: This is one of those attractions that just need a tick off your bucket list. Admitting that you did not see Mozart's living quarters in Vienna would be too shameful. Haha...spoken like a true tourist! But honestly, there is nothing to see, just a regular old building with signage. The Mozart house in Salzburg is worth seeing, though it is now a museum. Mariahilfer Strasse, the famous shopping street in Vienna This is the largest shopping street in Vienna, perhaps also the longest at 1.8 km, with shops of every brand you can think of. And it's full of shoppers. You will see a lot of tourists alongside mostly locals going about their daily chores. And a heady taste of the modern Vienna vibe. My Tip: You will take about 26 mins to reach this street from Stephansplatz, the city centre. While in Vienna, plan to spend an evening around this street. Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) Right next to Maria-Theresien-Platz is the Museum of Fine Arts. There is so much to say and write about this museum; this space would not be enough. I've written a separate blog about this visit https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-visit-to-the-kunsthistorisches-museum-museum-of-fine-arts-in-vienna Musical Concert/Opera No trip to Vienna is complete without a visit to the Vienna State Opera. But sadly, the opera closes for its annual break in July and August. In the absence of the opera, the entire city comes alive with music concerts in churches, palaces and music halls. We went to a Mozart Music Concert in Musikverien. It was an experience worth remembering for a lifetime. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/mozart-concert-at-the-musikverein-vienna To sum up, I would say that Vienna is indeed the most liveable city in the world. There is minimum vehicular pollution, just loads of pedestrian-friendly zones, with artworks scattered around stunning public squares, waiting to be explored on foot. A city steeped in history and yet a thriving modern-day metropolis with world-class infrastructure. So, plan a trip to Vienna. If you discover something new that I might have missed, I would be thrilled to hear from you! From Vienna, we went to Salzburg and further to Innsbruck. You can click on the links below to learn more about these amazing destinations Salzburg https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/travelling-to-salzburg-don-t-miss-these-top-10-attractions Hallstatt https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/10-practical-tips-about-a-day-trip-to-hallstatt-the-picturesque-town-in-upper-austria Salzwelten https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-salzwelten-hallstatt-the-oldest-salt-mine-in-the-world Hohensalzburg https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-short-excursion-to-hohensalzburg-fortress-the-crown-of-salzburg Innsbruck https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/everything-you-should-know-before-planning-a-3-day-trip-to-innsbruck Top of Innsbruck https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-cable-car-ride-to-the-top-of-innsbruck-the-jewel-of-the-alps Swarovski Crystal World https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/half-day-trip-to-swarovski-crystal-world-in-innsbruck * Baroque architecture - An opulent and highly decorative style of building that originated in Italy in the 17th century and then spread to the rest of Europe. Typical characteristics are intricate details, grand decorations and statues with dramatic curves and twists. ** Gothic architecture - This is an architectural style that was prevalent in Europe in the Middle Ages. Typical characteristics that define this architecture are pointed arches, flying buttresses, large stained glass windows and ornate decorations.

Enchanting is the first word that comes to my mind when I think about the mangrove forest of Pitchavaram. Our trip to Puducherry would have been incomplete without a visit to this intricate labyrinth of flora and fauna thriving in the saline waters of the Bay of Bengal, the second-largest mangrove forest in the world. Pitchavaram on the east coast of India covers a whopping 1400 hectares of forest area and has over 400 water channels that can be covered on a ,boat. The mangroves of Pitchavaram are present in the Killai Backwaters formed by the estuaries of the Vellar and Coleroon river systems. An estuary is the river's wide mouth at the point where it joins the sea. We start early from Puducherry since it takes over 2 hours to reach Pitchavaram and we want to avoid the afternoon sun and are pleasantly surprised to see hardly any crowds at the boat house. We hire a rowing boat and head towards the mangrove forest. Our boatman, a young guy with a penchant for chatting, keeps us enthused with his in-depth knowledge of the region's topography and the beliefs of the local community of Vedars, who still do not use fishing nets to catch fish. Instead, the Vedars wade in the water and catch fish with their bare hands and feet. He tells us with a glint of pride that the 'Rhizophora' trees (it's Rhizophora, I later learnt), also called True Mangroves, have aerial roots that have adapted to the saline water, the exact term would be hygroscopic, that is, they readily absorb moisture from their surroundings and cling to each other for support, creating this incredible scenery all around... We spend an hour floating around on our boat in this surreal landscape, listening to interesting anecdotes from our zealous companion. Our conversations are interrupted only by the constant chirping and twittering of birds flying in and out of mangrove trees. According to popular folklore, Lord Shiva had come to visit Pitchavaram and decided to stay in his celestial dancing pose of Nataraja in the Thillai Nataraja Temple about 14 km from Pitchavaram. Locals believe that the mangrove forest is the abode of the Dancing Nataraja, and it is this belief that has deterred people from completely ravaging these mangroves for their selfish ends. Visiting Pitchavaram: Things to know before you visit the Mangrove Forest from Puducherry The Pitchavaram Mangrove Forest lies in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu at a distance of about 70 km from Puducherry. It takes about 2 hours to reach Pitchavaram from Puducherry by road. The forest is spread over an area of 45 square kilometres and there are over 400 channels of water where boating can be done. The facility at Pitchavaram is open on all days from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Boating facilities at Pitchavaram are fairly organised and run by authorised boat operators. Safety protocols like life jackets are available. It's not mandatory to wear safety jackets but it's best to wear them during your time on the boat for your safety. Boat charges are INR 450 which is very reasonable and it takes you up to a certain point in the mangrove forest. We wanted to go a bit further into the forest, so we paid our boatman INR 400 extra for an additional boat ride of 20 minutes. A lot of tourists do this and it was certainly worth the extra time and money. The best time to go to the mangrove forest is either early morning or late afternoon. It can get very hot and humid during the day when the sun is high. The water level in the mangrove forest is just 3 feet at most. If you are keen on exploring the mangroves thoroughly, you should go in the late afternoon when the water level is high for the boat to enter the smaller channels. The facility at Pitchavaram has very basic amenities. No proper restaurants or eateries exist, so one should carry light snacks. Even coconut water is not freely available. There was just a shack selling some soft drinks. Opt ONLY for the row boat. Motorboats are noisy and can ruin the experience. Besides, they are not allowed to enter the channels inside the mangroves. I've tried to capture the raw beauty and ethereal silence of the mangrove forest.... The Boat House at Pitchavaram.... Getting to the mangrove forest by row boat... Inside the mangroves... Mangroves are like nature's interfaces, a resilient barrier between the saline world of oceans and the land surrounding them. They protect the coastal ecosystems by minimising erosion and retaining minerals in the soil. But now this paradise is threatened by excessive tourism, state apathy and the shrimp industry that is creating havoc for the mangroves that are home to several species of migratory birds like storks, egrets and herons that flock to this fertile region in the winter months, in addition to the diverse aquatic life like fish, crabs and prawns that thrive in this region. I sincerely hope that this fragile ecosystem, like many other ecosystems around the world, does not get slaughtered at the altar of human avarice.

The golden spherical dome of Matrimandir jutting out 29.5 meters high into the sky glistens in the scorching summer sun, the 1415 gold-plated discs that cover its massive spherical exterior create a surreal illusion and blind my gaze. We quietly walk on the red sandstone ramp that leads to a circular meditation area around a lotus-shaped fountain. We are a small batch of about 15 visitors, we sit around the fountain, grateful for the cool respite from the sun and bedazzled at the same time by the sheer beauty of this structure that seems to be oozing calm from its every pore. We sit for about 5 to 7 minutes in silence and are then led through another door leading to a corridor with sparkling white flooring. Some ushers signal us with a show of hands to walk along the corridor to a point where all visitors are expected to halt, put on white socks and tuck their lowers in them. We are led further into a corridor leading to a pristine white ramp. My worldly wayward mind instantly warns me that I'm going to slip and fall on this perfectly glazed marble floor owing to the socks. But I'm pleasantly surprised to discover that the ramp has a white carpet to avert such an eventuality. The ramp leads us into the Inner Chamber. The Inner Chamber is the Sanctum Sanctorum of this temple of human consciousness. There is a placid calm in this place that is hard to describe and harder yet to find anywhere in the world these days. There is a golden globe in the centre of this hall where a white beam of electronically directed sunlight hits at its core from an opening in the apex of this mammoth sphere. We go around the chamber in a circle as instructed to us by a volunteer earlier, and take our places around the globe. I close my eyes, basking in the ethereal silence of this hall. My trance is broken by the soft jingling of a bell that signals our time to get up and proceed out of the hall. As we step out, we see another batch of visitors climbing up the circular ramp from the other side of the chamber, in complete silence, one behind another, heads bowed, with a look of anticipation on their faces. There is something deeply symbolic about these circular white ramps that lead people in and out of the Inner Chamber.... no words, no symbols, no placards, only silence....and yet the message ringing loud and clear ...this is the circle of life, the truth about our world....we are just passerbyes through the eternity of time. I step out and look up at the sky, grateful for the opportunity to witness this spectacle at Auroville. What is Auroville, Puducherry? Auroville was established by Mirra Alfassa, a French-born yoga teacher and spiritual guru, also known as The Mother, in collaboration with Sri Aurobindo in 1968. The 20-square-kilometre township is run by an appointed body of the Indian Government called the Auroville Foundation. The idea behind Auroville was to establish a self-sustaining community not bound by nationalities, religion, language, caste or any other divisive parameters. Instead, they live together in harmony with each other and the nature surrounding them, as human beings bound only by humanity and lead a spiritual holistic life. People from all over the world are welcome to come and live in this haven of peace. The soul of this township of humanity is the Matrimandir, the temple of the Mother if I translate it literally. This massive golden dome of the Matrimandir is surrounded by 12 large petal-type structures symbolising the 12 powers or qualities that each human being should possess or aspire for.... Sincerity, Humility, Gratitude, Perseverance, Aspiration, Receptivity, Progress, Courage, Kindness, Generosity, Equality and Peace. 12 beautifully manicured gardens and a small water body envelope the dome. Right next to it is an old banyan tree, which is believed to be the geographical centre of Auroville. What to Expect at Auroville Auroville is free to visit for everyone, and there are two ways to visit it. One, if you just want to see the township and the Matrimandir from the viewing platform and click pictures, you are not required to register beforehand. You can reach the venue, go to the Visitor's Centre that is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days, get a free pass and then walk to the Matrimandir Viewing Point. You will walk for about 10 minutes through a beautiful forest area with adequate signage that will lead you directly to the viewing point. There are nice places to sit around, and drinking water and washroom facilities are also available. The picture of Matrimandir above was taken from this viewing point. Two, if you wish to experience the vibe of Auroville or spend some time in the Meditation hall, then you need to register yourself at least 5 to 7 days before your visit on their website on the link given here. https://auroville.org/page/visiting-the-matrimandir You will be allocated a day and a time slot for your visit via email. Registration is important if you wish to see the Matrimandir from the inside. Upon arrival at the Visitor's Centre, you will be given a batch number and will be led into a small theatre room for a short video film about the ideology and history behind Auroville and the construction of Matrimandir. After the film screening, a volunteer will quickly talk to you about how to proceed further. A free shuttle service will take you to a point closer to the dome. You will be expected to deposit all your belongings, especially cell phones, at the counter since photography is strictly prohibited in the area. A two-minute walk will take you to the Matrimandir. There are ushers everywhere who will guide you with a show of hands on how to enter the Meditation Hall. Things to know before you visit Auroville Auroville lies at a distance of about 12 km from Puducherry, the city closest to the township. If you're not familiar with the region, then hiring a private cab is your best bet. You will go through a maze of narrow lanes and by-lanes, gliding through small residential colonies before you reach the open ground where Auroville is located. The highlight of your visit to Auroville will be a visit to the Matrimandir. Minus that experience, it's like going to an enclosed park with eateries, walking trails and a manicured forest area. The township has excellent cafes, a small exhibition area, and a library where you can easily spend a day. A lot of people, especially foreign tourists, come to stay in Auroville. For more details, you can refer to the official website of Auroville by clicking here https://auroville.org/ To sum up, I'd say Auroville needs to be experienced and not just seen. I'd read a lot of conflicting views from people who visited this township, from awe-struck visitors who were stirred by what they saw and experienced, to casual tourists who thought it was all hype over nothing. After having visited the township myself, I can say with certainty that visiting the Matrimandir made all the difference. The peace and the tranquillity of that area have the capacity to soothe frayed nerves and de-stress your mind. In times such as ours, is that a mean feat?

Puducherry is quite well known for its bustling 'cafe-culture', a term used to describe the wide varieties of cafes in and around the White Town, funky, classy, earthy, traditional, some that serve authentic French cuisine, others that serve finger-licking fusion food and some that serve mind-blowing beverages and desserts. My husband, Gautam, who is a self-proclaimed Masterchef and a die-hard foodie, could not have let this opportunity go by; he took it upon himself to explore this cafe culture during our trip and sample as many delicacies as we could. In this blog, we have tried to give you a list of the best cafes in Puducherry, along with our personal experience of visiting them. Best Cafes in Puducherry: Exploring the Cafe Culture of Puducherry Baker Street This popular cafe is located right on Goubert Avenue, facing Promenade Beach. There is a regular footfall of patrons in the cafe, and there are very few tables and chairs to sit around inside the restaurant. People mostly pick up stuff and eat somewhere along the beachfront. The menu comprises mainly on-the-go snacks with tongue-twisting French names like Escargot, a typical French spiral pastry eaten for breakfast and Chausson, called Sho-son, a crusty pastry filled with apple sauce, an apple pie. They have a variety of yummy croissants with different fillings, varieties of macarons and pastries. They have a variety of baguettes and quiches with many kinds of fillings that were quite good. The cafe is a great place to grab a bite, you get a taste of the most authentic French Patisserie for a very reasonable amount of money. The overall experience was excellent and definitely value for money. Le Dupleix We visited this classy French and Continental villa-turned-café on our second day out. The opulent interiors are nicely done, you can sit out in the open or inside in the air-conditioned area. We opted for the cool air-conditioned interior since it was really hot and humid that evening. We started our evening with a glass of Aperol Spritz, an Italian wine-based cocktail. The drink was made to perfection with the right amount of Prosecco and soda water at the right temperature. We ordered a Bruschetta & Crostone, Homemade Ravioli with basil pesto sauce, Baby Broccoli and Mushroom Sobo Noodles. As you can see above, the Bruschetta had six pieces, each with a different topping. We skipped the dessert here and decided to walk towards the Beach and sample another amazing pastry at Baker Street. This fine-dining restaurant comes with excellent ambience and good service. A meal for a couple would cost a very reasonable 3000 to 3500 INR. The overall experience was excellent, the ambience was graceful and the food was value for money. Coromandel Cafe Coromandel Cafe, as the name suggests, is an ideal eatery to try some great coastal cuisine although they have all kinds of food options, Non-vegetarian, Vegan, European and more. The highlight of the evening was Earl Grey Spritzer, a delicious concoction of wine laced with Earl Grey tea accompanied by a sumptuous French Creamy Seafood Plate, Crispy Prawns and Seafood Spaghetti. To round off this heady mix of seafood was the heavenly Tiramisu. The cafe is relatively pricey compared to other outlets in Puducherry although not too steep. Dining with drinks could cost you anywhere from 3800 to 4500 INR. The restaurant seemed to be quite popular among the locals too as I saw many families waiting to enter as we left. The overall experience was excellent, the ambience and food were definitely value for money. Villa Shanti This restaurant is known for its Indian and European cuisine. After trying all kinds of continental dishes on the first few days, we decided to go with Indian cuisine on Day 3. The restaurant had a nice vibe and the seating arrangements looked welcoming. We ordered some Indian homecooked bread, garlic naan and paranthas with chicken curry and rice. The food was regular Indian cuisine, nothing spectacular but not bad either. But the big turn-off was that it was an extremely hot and humid evening, we were drenched in sweat when we walked into the restaurant but discovered after placing our order that it had no airconditioned indoor seating. That for me was an issue, although we saw many families sitting in the open and enjoying their meal. Had we gone there on a breezy cool evening, the experience might have been different. I think there should be some enclosed area with air-conditioning for particularly humid days. The overall experience was good, seating could be more comfortable since the restaurant is on the ground floor, some kind of cooling would be welcome but the food was good. Crepe in Touch This quirky cafe is a delight from the word go. First, the setting. The place is a miniature mall with a cute boutique, a trinket shop and a cosmetic store. So, while your crepe is being done, you can hop around and explore the goodies. Two, the food. They specialise in crepes with all kinds of fillings served most authentically. The cafe has a personal touch which is very endearing. No wonder it attracts a lot of younger crowd. Prices are very reasonable. The caretaker Surya posed with my husband and made crepes to order for us. The overall experience was excellent and the place is value for money. One can easily spend a casual, lazy afternoon in this place, munching on tidbits and shopping around. Bread & Chocolate This is one of the most happening cafes in all of Puducherry. They have two branches, one very close to the Aurobindo Ashram in White Town and the other is in Auroville en route to Puducherry. We stopped at the one in Auroville. The cafe has a very casual vibe, with adequate seating outside and some chairs inside too. They offer a variety of vegetarian, non-vegetarian, pescatarian and vegan dishes. I was quite surprised to see a very exhaustive menu with on-the-go snacky foods like sandwiches, croissants, salad bowls and more and a meal menu with a lot of options. We ordered some takeaway croissants for the evening and decided to sample a main dish at the restaurant. We ordered a North African dish called Shakshuka, comprising eggs, tomatoes and paprika on a bed of spinach sauce with toasted sourdough bread. The dish was well-cooked but quite bland, the sourdough bread was fresh. I have not tasted this dish anywhere else so I cannot compare it with another version of it about the authenticity of the flavours and taste. The croissants were heavenly, one of the best I've ever eaten! The overall experience was good, value for money. I would have liked to visit the cafe again and try out some more of their baked delights but time was a constraint. Les Alizes On the last day of our trip, we went to this beautiful cafe in Palais de Mahe. The restaurant is known for its local Pondi and continental cuisine. Like Villa Shanti, this is also an open-air cafe with no airconditioned enclosure. But since it's a rooftop cafe and very well-ventilated from all sides, we could feel the gentle evening sea breeze flowing through its beautiful spacious interiors. This was our last day in Pondi, so we decided to gorge on local cuisine. We ordered a seafood platter. Portion-wise, the platter was wholesome with a good variety of fried prawns, shrimps and fish filet and a delicious tangy dip on the side. For the mains, we ordered fish curry with appams*. Again, the portion size was good, the spice level was balanced and the presentation was ok. For dessert, we ordered a creme brulee. The dish tasted alright but it was missing a critical ingredient, the hardened caramelised layer of sugar on top which lends this dish its signature taste and flavour. The overall experience, food and ambience were good, desserts could do with some improvisations. *Appam - Thin savoury pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk.

The erstwhile French colonial settlement of Puducherry (formerly known as Pondicherry) was declared a Union Territory of India on November 1st, 1954, ending 280 years of French rule. But unlike most colonial settlements, this vibrant city lying on the southeast coast of India in the state of Tamil Nadu remembers its colonial past with panache. The White Town or the French Quarter, a charming neighbourhood spread over an area of about just a kilometre in Puducherry, is replete with colonial-era villas painted in light shades of pastel yellow, its cobbled streets called 'Rue' in French still carry French names, and the entire town has quirky cafes that offer an interesting assortment of French, Indian and Tamilian cuisines. It's also intriguing to note that a small community of French people continue to live in Puducherry and French is one of the official languages of the city. How to Reach Puducherry The nearest airport to Puducherry is Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, at a distance of about 151 kilometres. Puducherry is quite well connected by road to Chennai. The East Coast Road will take you to Puducherry through small towns, quaint little villages and scenic countryside. Transport options include very economical state-owned buses and private cabs. The journey takes about 3 hours. Useful Tips about visiting Puducherry, India Puducherry sees a regular inflow of tourists, both Indian and foreign. So, although the local language is Tamil, most people can understand English, which makes going around the city quite easy. Local transport includes a variety of two-, three-, and four-wheeler vehicles available at very reasonable rates. Being a coastal town, the city experiences a sweltering and humid summer from March to May and heavy rainfall from June to September. The best time to visit Puducherry is the winter months from October to February. Things to do in Puducherry White Town I presume White Town gets its name from the white French people who inhabited it 70 years ago. Now, this neighbourhood is a tourist destination in Puducherry. There are many things to see and do here, so it's a good idea to walk around the White Town and stroll along its many avenues and tree-lined streets. Goubert Avenue and Promenade Beach, also called Rock Beach We start our excursion with a walk around the White Town, I believe this is what all first-time tourists, to Puducherry do. The person at the reception desk sets us in the direction of the Promenade Beach. We can see a lot of mopeds parked in front of a barricade since the area is a vehicle-free zone. Promenade Beach offers a beautiful calming sight. We are surprised to see hundreds of walking enthusiasts, locals and tourists alike, soaking in the fresh sea breeze, walking along Goubert Avenue, taking pictures or grabbing a bite in the small eateries that line the entire stretch of the Beach. Goubert Avenue is the 1.5-kilometre-long paved corridor flanked by the Coromandel Coast on the one side and the White Town on the other and is a pedestrian's delight. The entire area comes alive in the morning and evening when people from all over town gather here to watch the sunrise or the sunset. The avenue is lined with many interesting monuments like the French War Memorial, Gandhi Memorial, Old Light House and Tribute Wall among others. We spend the rest of the evening loitering around Goubert Avenue and munching on delicious knick-knacks at Baker Street. You can learn about our culinary outings in Puducherry in a separate post by clicking here Aurobindo Ashram We started our second day's outing with a visit to Aurobindo Ashram. The ashram is like an oasis of peace and tranquillity in the hustle and bustle of Puducherry. There is an air of austerity around the simple structure of the ashram. We remove our shoes in a shoe rack placed opposite the ashram gate. Photography inside the ashram is strictly prohibited. So much so, that the guard at the gate, sensing that there are some tourists around makes us switch off our phones so that we cannot take any kind of pictures inside. The ashram opens from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and then from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm each day. As we step inside, we are led to a small courtyard surrounded by trees and thick greens. In the centre of the courtyard is a pristine-white marble shrine, the Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. A lot of people are sitting around the shrine, eyes closed, hands folded in prayer. One can easily spend about 2 to 3 hours in the ashram, there is a library and a bookshop in case you're interested in buying books about the ideology of Sri Aurobindo. There is also a bulletin board with events of the day with free entry for everyone. Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple or Ganesh Temple Very close to the Aurobindo Ashram is the Ganesh Temple. The temple is over 500 years old and one of the oldest in the region. What makes this temple special is the interesting folklore that surrounds it. In 1688, the French wanted to erect a fort close to the temple. They decided to demolish the temple and throw the Ganesha idols into the sea. But each time they threw the idol, it would reappear in its original place. To honour this divine miracle, they let the temple and its idols stay. To this day, Lord Ganesha is the presiding deity in the temple and is worshipped with a lot of fervour by its devotees. The outer facade of the temple has been done in classic Dravidian style with multi-coloured figurines and stuccos, and the interiors are equally stunning with different kinds of idols of Lord Ganesha and other deities. Eglise De Notre-Dame des Anges, also known as Our Lady of Angels Church After a rather calming start to our day, we head to Our Lady of Angels Church. This beautiful Catholic church is one of the oldest churches in Puducherry and is located right in the heart of White Town. The church, with its European-style architecture, has an unmistakable colonial vibe. Entry is free. If you have time, you can spend some time here in peace and calm. Immaculate Conception Cathedral This 300-year-old cathedral offers a beautiful sight with its stained-glass windows and tall archways. Entry is free. Half-Day Trip to Paradise Beach We plan to spend the second half of the day at Paradise Beach. There are a few things to remember before you go - The beach is open for tourists from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The entry fee to reach the beach is INR 150 per head. Paradise Beach can be reached via a short boat ride from Chunnambar Boat House. Chunnambar Boat House is 12 km away from Puducherry and can be easily reached by any kind of transport. The boat takes you to the beach and back. The last boat leaves the beach at 5:30 pm. So, kindly ensure you do not miss your boat back to Puducherry. You can plan to spend about 2 - 3 hours at the beach. There are no specific activities like any water sports available at the beach. I saw camel rides and mud biking for kids though. There are not many eateries at the beach, there is a restaurant with a very limited menu and a small shack selling coconut water. If you plan to spend more time at the beach, carry your snacks and drinks. Paradise Beach is a sandy beach and perfectly safe for bathing and splashing around in the water. However, bathing facilities are limited. There are washrooms but there was no running water available. We saw big cans of stored limited water. Day Trip to the Pitchavaram Mangrove Forest A trip to this mangrove forest is certainly worth your time and money. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-trip-to-pitchavaram-the-enchanting-mangrove-forest-from-puducherry Day Trip to Auroville The experimental township in Viluppuram District of Tamil Nadu is an experience that you will cherish for a lifetime. Join me on this amazing tour... https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-auroville-the-experimental-spiritual-township-of-human-unity Cafes in White Town Sampling the eclectic mix of cuisines that the White Town has to offer in its many cafes is an experience worth cherishing. Traditional Tamilian fare is fused with Indian and French cuisine to create mouth-watering delights. Let me take you on a tour of some of the most reputed cafes in White Town, Puducherry... https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/the-hot-and-sizzling-culinary-delights-of-puducherry

The beautiful hilly state of Uttarakhand in Northern India, also called 'Devbhoomi' or 'Abode of the Gods,' owes its name to the presence of 60 temples dedicated to the revered Lord Shiva on its sacred land. Each of these temples is steeped in mythology and folklore, mysticism and magic, and interesting anecdotes from the Puranas* that help reiterate the belief that these temples stand for, an unshakeable, unwavering faith in the almighty Lord Shiva, the invincible. What is Special about Tungnath and Panch Kedar Tungnath temple belongs to the group of 'Panch Kedar Temples' or 5 Kedar temples. As per popular folklore, the Pandavas, the gallant and righteous five princes of Indraprastha, defeated their deceitful one hundred cousins, the Kaurvas, in a fierce and bloody battle of Kurukshetra. After the war, the Pandavas wanted to atone for their sin of fratricide (the sin of killing one's kin). They worshipped Lord Shiva and sought his forgiveness, but Shiva wanted them to undergo penance for their deeds and cleanse themselves of their sins. When Pandavas reached Varanasi at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the abode of Lord Shiva, he disguised himself as a bull to avoid the Pandavas and hid himself in the Garhwal Himalayas. This place came to be known as Guptkashi, Gupt meaning hidden and Kashi, the city of Shiva. Lord Shiva reappeared as a bull in the Himalayan region. Bheema, the most powerful of the Pandava brothers, was looking for Lord Shiva. He spotted the bull and recognised it as Lord Shiva. But the bull vanished and reappeared in five parts at five different locations, namely Kedarnath, where the hump appeared, the arms appeared in Tungnath, the face in Rudranath, the navel in Madhyamaheshwar and the hair in Kalpeshwar. The Pandavas built temples in all these 5 locations to seek the forgiveness and blessings of Lord Shiva. All 5 temples of Panch Kedar are located in the same region and cover a total mountain trek of about 170 km. It takes about 15 to 21 days to cover all these temples in one go. Rudranath is considered to be the toughest of all these 5 mountainous treks. How to Reach Tungnath, the highest Shiva Temple in the World Tungnath temple, located at an altitude of 12,070 feet above sea level, is the highest Shiva temple in the world! There is a scenic pass through the hills, 3.5 kilometres long, that will take you right up to the temple's entrance. 3.5 km sounds quite doable, but the steep incline and the high altitude can be challenging for some people. The walk uphill starts on a cobbled path from the nearest town of Chopta. The winding pass passes through beautiful meadows and scenic valleys. Ponies are also easily available if you do not wish to walk. Things to Know Before Visiting Tungnath The trek to the top of the hill is only 3.5 km, but it's quite steep uphill. If you're not up for walking all the way uphill, then you should opt for a pony. The high altitude can cause breathing discomfort in some people. You must carry camphor tablets to ease breathing on your way up. There is very limited infrastructure en route to the temple. There is just one or two small shacks selling basic snacks and drinks. Unlike many other popular shrines, there are no covered sheds or resting places along the way. You should carry an umbrella if the weather forecast is cloudy. Also, carry drinking water for the journey. Most importantly, start early in the morning. The trek is even, but there is no lighting throughout the route. It was pitch dark by the time we came downhill. It would help if you carried a torch to see the route. We had to depend on the torchlight of our phone to get back safely. 1.5 km further from the Tungnath temple is Chandrashila, a viewpoint that offers unobstructed and glorious views of the Himalayas, Nandadevi, and Kedar Peak. If you have the zeal and energy to walk up another 1.5 km, you should not miss it. We visited Tungnath in October 2024. The journey was every bit memorable. I'm sharing some pictures of our journey. The route to the temple was very scenic, as we went through lush green valleys and meadows.... Last leg of the journey.... Entrance gate of the temple... First look of the temple complex... The valley around the temple at dusk... The trek is plunged into darkness by the time we set forth on our return journey... *Puranas are Hindu religious texts that are part of the Vedas. There are 18 Puranas in all, that deal with exhaustive information on many subjects like theology, cosmology, religion, astronomy and medicine among others. Puranas use religious symbolism and fables to carry their message.

Point Clark lies at a distance of about 230 kilometres from Toronto. Our 3-hour drive followed a scenic route through the Ontario countryside on the 401 Highway. This blog will give you all the relevant information on how to get to Point Clark from Toronto and the things you need to know before you do that. 401 is an 828-kilometre-long toll-free highway that runs from Windsor in the west to the Ontario-Quebec border on the east coast of Canada. All along the highway, after about every 60 kilometres, are convenience stops called ONROUTE. They serve as pitstops to refuel your vehicles and take toilet breaks, grab a bite at some of Canada's popular food chains and drink a hot beverage. As we were driving past the Kitchener-Waterloo region, we came across the Township of Woolwich. Normally, one wouldn't remember the names of rural townships in the countryside, but this one caught my attention. What I saw looked like a movie scene, a period drama set in the early 18th century. I saw families sitting atop horse-driven carriages, children dressed in formal attires and women wearing trimmed hats. We saw them collect near the local church for the Sunday Mass. Woolwich, I learnt later, is home to the largest Mennonite population in Canada and their settlement is called Amish Country. The Amish people are members of a protestant Christian group who immigrated to Canada in the early 18th Century. Their religious beliefs shun the use of modern technology, motorised vehicles and even the use of electricity in their homes. I found this entire region very intriguing and worth a mention here. As we approached Point Clark and set our eyes on Lake Huron, it looked dazzling with its deep blue colour. Geographically speaking, it's the second largest of the Great Lakes namely Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, and is the fourth largest lake in the world! The deep blue water owes its colour to the sediment of the lake brought to the surface by the churning action of the strong winds in the region. The best time to visit is undoubtedly summer when the waters are relatively warm. It's an ideal getaway for families with kids who love their little outdoor adventures. The water is safe for swimming and taking boat rides. Rental options offer motor boats, pontoon boats, jet skis and wave runners with flexible renting options on an hourly, daily and weekly basis depending on your requirements. The quaint lakefront cottage community of Point Clark is dotted with beautiful cottages along the lake shore. At the point where the land ends lies Point Clark Lighthouse, an 80-foot structure made of pristine white limestone that seems to have descended straight from the old mystical lands of sailors and sea monsters. Point Clark Lighthouse was built between 1855 and 1859 and is still a functional lighthouse. It has been declared as a National Historic Site. The lighthouse opens daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Tours of the lighthouse are available, the most intriguing being the Sunset Tour. You can refer to the official website for more information on tours and activities in the area at https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/clark. Most cottages in the lakefront community have a bonfire where you can light a fire in the calmness of the night against the backdrop of the mild rustling sound of the waters of Lake Huron. If you're lucky to be there on a clear day, don't forget to look up at the night sky...it will be lit by the millions of stars staring down at you!

The beautiful mountain town of Whistler is a haven for sports enthusiasts, and a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver is a must-do activity. In winter, the town sees tourists flocking to it for skiing and snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb, the largest ski resort in North America. In summer, the town comes alive with activities like mountain biking and hiking. And the not-to-miss Peak-2-Peak Gondola that plies between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. If you have just a day in Whistler in summer, then this gondola ride should be at the top of your itinerary. How to Travel from Vancouver to Whistler Whistler lies at a distance of 121 kilometres from Vancouver. The best way to get to Whistler is by bus from Vancouver, which will take about 2 hours and will go through the scenic Sea-to-Sky highway. If you're driving, then keep some extra time on hand to stop at the beautiful scenic spots along the way. A luxury train called 'Rocky Mountaineer' also runs between the two cities on scheduled days and offers panoramic views of the Fraser Valley and the mountains and forests of Alberta and British Columbia. But it's expensive both in terms of money and time since it takes 12 hours to cover the distance. How to Spend a Day in Whistler in Summer We started very early from Vancouver since we had just a day in Whistler. Buses ply at regular intervals, but it's best to buy tickets in advance, especially during the peak season. We reached Whistler within two hours through the scenic Sea-to-Sky highway. The town is small and has an old-world charm to it. Whistler is a walkable city; you can easily go on foot around restaurants and the marketplace. The day was sunny and bright, and we wanted to make the most of it, so we headed straight for the gondola ride. Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola One of the absolute highlights of visiting Whistler in summer is riding the famous Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which connects Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain and offers spectacular views of forests, lakes and snow-capped peaks. Tips for Visiting the Peak 2 Peak Gondola Allow at least 3 hours for the entire experience. Carry a light jacket even in summer. There are 3 gondola rides in all: the Whistler Village gondola, Blackcomb Gondola and Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The 436-metre-high Peak 2 Peak gondola is a cable car connecting Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. It has held the Guinness World Record for being the highest of its kind gondola. You should keep aside at least two hours for the entire gondola experience. Buy the Peak 2 Peak 360-degree Experience ticket. This will give you access to all three gondola rides. At 4 kilometres long, it is also one of the longest lift systems in the world. The ride between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains is an 11-minute journey. One gets to see stunning alpine scenery through the gondola... My parting tip to anyone planning to do a day trip to Whistler is that the Peak 2 Peak Gondola will take up a good amount of your one day in Whistler, although theoretically it's a 3-hour activity. If you really wish to explore Whistler at leisure, then you should plan at least 2 or more days. With two days in hand, you could explore the Whistler Village, and walk around Lost Lake with its beautiful nature walks and biking trails. If you're driving, then you must plan to stop at Shannon Falls on the way betwen Vancouver and Whistler.

Let me start by saying that Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is picture-perfect. It's located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Olympic Mountains. The city is renowned for its vibrant art scene, culture, international cuisine, beautiful parks, a plethora of outdoor activities and an unmistakable old-world charm by way of its colonial architecture, which has been very well preserved. In this blog, you will get all the useful information about planning the perfect day trip to Victoria BC from Vancouver. Best Way to Travel from Vancouver to Victoria BC There are many ways to travel from Vancouver to Victoria BC, you can fly, go by bus, ferry or take a seaplane. Some more luxurious options like V2V are also available for travelling between these two cities. We took a BC Ferry, which is quite a popular option since you can drive straight onto the ferry parking in your vehicle. There is a ferry every two hours, so availability is not an issue. You must book your tickets in advance, though. Also, the ferry is spacious, there are eateries, washrooms, a play area for kids and an open deck with seating. The ride lasts 90 minutes from the Tsawwassen Terminal to the Swartz Bay Terminal in Victoria. The ride is fun, and your sightseeing will begin from here as the ferry sails past a beautiful coastline over the Strait of Georgia in the Salish Sea. Once you reach Victoria, plan to stroll around the stunning waterfront before heading on to any activity. See the entire city come alive here, no words are needed to describe this .... This was our second trip to Victoria. After having visited the city twice, both times on a day trip from Vancouver, I've concluded that we should have ideally kept aside at least two to three days in the city. Things to Do in Victoria in a Day Whale Watching Cruises in Victoria Victoria is one of the best places in British Columbia for whale watching tours. Cruises departing from the Inner Harbour take visitors into the Salish Sea, where it is possible to spot orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, seals and sea lions depending on the season. Useful Tips for Whale-Watching Cruises in Victoria Most whale watching tours last between 3 and 5 hours, making them a popular activity for visitors spending a full day in Victoria. If you're short on time, book an early morning cruise so that you have time for other activities like Inner Harbour and Butchart Gardens. The best season to do these cruises is from May to September. Even in summer, dress in layers because it gets very windy on the water. Morning cruises usually have calmer waters, but if you're prone to motion sickness, carry your medication. Zodiac boats are faster and more adventurous, but they can get really cold owing to the wind. On our last visit, we opted for a whale-watching cruise. I'm sharing my experience via a video. This was in 2011, please bear with me, the video quality is not as per today's standards, but the excitement of seeing Orca whales in their natural habitat so close to our boat was thrilling... This time, though, we decided to drive around the city, see the world-famous Butchart Gardens, and spend the sunset at Ogden Point Breakwater, a beautiful walking trail close to Downtown Victoria. Visiting the Butchart Gardens in Victoria Butchart Gardens is a haven of colour, and if you visit it in spring, then flowers like cherry blossoms, daffodils and tulips are in full bloom. But regardless of the season, the garden with its beautiful Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, exquisitely arranged lush green foliage, water bodies with fountains, small winding paths, colourful totem poles and even a cute-looking carousel, is a treat to visit. The carousel is paid with a nominal ticket of $2 per person. Close to the entrance is a nice souvenir shop and some eateries, too. The gardens are located at a distance of 22 km from Downtown Victoria. It's easily accessible by both private and public transport. Parking facilities are good. You should plan to spend at least 3 to 4 hours inside the gardens to fully appreciate their beauty. They are open till 11 pm on most days of the year except on holidays and Christmas Day. We, like most people, visited the gardens during the day. But I've heard some rave reviews from people who visited it at dusk when the garden is illuminated. To have the best of both worlds, you can plan to go there in the evening and stay on till dusk falls. You don't need a conducted tour of the garden, the paths are wheelchair-friendly and there are adequate spaces to sit and relax. What more can I say about these gardens....the pictures are self-explanatory... This was in summer, one can only imagine the glorious hues in spring!! Driving to Ogden Point Breakwater in Victoria BC After having spent a leisurely first half of the day amidst the beauty of Butchart Gardens, we decided to go to the Ogden Point Breakwater, a walk near Downtown Victoria. It should take you about 5 minutes to drive to Breakwater Point from Downtown Victoria, or if you're up for walking, it will take about 35 minutes to reach the Breakwater. Walk towards Dallas Road and turn right onto the wide path leading to the Breakwater. A 1.6-kilometre-long round trip of this scenic walk can take about 30 minutes to an hour. At the end of the walk is a lighthouse from where you can get glorious views of the sunset and the Juan de Fuca Strait. The walk is incredibly beautiful with planes flying overhead and cruises passing by. You will be able to see the busy Victoria Harbour with ferries and sailboats on the water and helicopters whirring overhead. That sums up our day trip to Victoria. My parting tip is that one should plan to spend more time than just a day in this vibrant city to soak in its many wonders.

Vancouver has always found a place of pride on the list of most liveable cities in the world, and a visit to this city reiterates this fact. The city is flanked by the peaks of the North Shore Mountains on its northern coastal edge, with its famous Grouse Mountain ski resort and by the calm waters of the Pacific Ocean on the west. Nestled between the mountains and the ocean is the beautiful city of Vancouver. My first and foremost tip for anyone visiting the city is to check the weather forecast for the day before making any bookings, since it rains quite a lot in Vancouver. The summer months of June to August are the driest, so planning a vacation during that time would be ideal, as most of the activities are outdoors. We were there in June 2024, so although it rained now and then, it was dry for the most part. We spent four days in Vancouver, our second visit to the city. Our first trip was in the summer of 2011, for a week when my kids were still very young. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the city has retained its charm even after so many years, although, like most metropolises, it looked more crowded. If you're a first-time visitor to the city, you must plan to keep at least a week aside to see its many wonders. There are an endless number of things to do, and the city boasts something to cater to all tastes. Listed below are the top 5 Must-Do Things in Vancouver, the Bustling Metropolis of British Columbia. Top Things to Do in Vancouver I. Stanley Park If you're an outdoor enthusiast, go for a run or bike around this massive 405-hectare public park. The park has the famous Stanley Park Seawall Path, which is a 10-km-long loop around the park that runs along the ocean and offers spectacular views. It takes about 3 hours to walk and 1 hour to cycle around the park. In my opinion, if you wake up on a sunny day in Vancouver, then don't miss a chance to go to Stanley Park. Conducted biking tours are also available if you wish to learn about the local history and see all the important points within the park. We had spent a day at the park on our earlier trip, and we had hired bikes that were easily available around the many shops very close to the park. We made a short stop this time, too. The park looked pretty much the same, except there were way more tourists along with the locals, and the free shuttle service that used to ferry passengers from the city was no longer there. II. Granville Island Located on False Creek, Granville Island is a perfect place to spend an evening. On first look, it would look like any other seafront promenade with eateries, boat rentals and souvenir shops. But after having spent an evening here, I think this should be on your not-to-miss list. The Granville Island Public Market is a great place to try fresh produce and gourmet delicacies. The entire area is bustling with eateries, breweries and local shops selling trinkets and handicrafts. You can also opt for a ferry ride called the Aqua Bus that will take you around the scenic harbourfront. III. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park lies in the District of North Vancouver and is known for its 140-metre-long suspension bridge, 70 meters above the Capilano River. But it's not the bridge alone that makes this park special; the entire 30-acre park has 7 other suspended footbridges, treetop adventures and Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway above the Capilano Canyon. The park is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. During Christmas, it stays open until 9 p.m. for a display of lights called Canyon Lights. Please check the official website for more details if you happen to be in Vancouver in winter https://www.capbridge.com/events/canyon-lights/ The park is a must-see attraction if you're travelling as a family with kids, and this is exactly what we did on our previous trip to Vancouver. This time, though, we decided to visit Lynn Canyon instead. IV. Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge Lynn Canyon Park also lies in the District of North Vancouver at a distance of about 9 km from Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Unlike Capilano, entry to the park is free, but you have to pay for the parking. There is an East Parking lot that is free. If you happen to enter the park from there, then you won't have to pay for the parking either. Spread over an area of 617 acres, the park has many beautiful hiking trails with different levels of incline and narrow to wide streams of water flowing from Lynn Creek. The favourite trail is the Lynn Canyon Loop, which is 1.4 miles long and kid-friendly with a moderate incline. Except for some parts of the park which can be reached only by the wooden staircases, most of the park is wheelchair friendly. The park boasts a suspension bridge about 50 meters high and all the basic amenities like toilets and a small refreshment area, too. My Tip for You After having seen both the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge this time and the Capilano Suspension Bridge on our earlier visit to Vancouver, I'd say that you must see the latter if you're a first-time visitor. Capilano is paid but every bit touristy with dangling bridges, colourful totem poles and a fun adventure park with cute cottages and small hiking trails. That doesn't take away the fact that Lynn Canyon is also a great place to spend a day in the outdoors, but it's more for nature lovers and not for tourists, especially those travelling with family. I'm pasting some pictures of Capilano from our earlier trip for your reference. V. Flyover Canada This was day three in Vancouver, and it turned out to be cloudy with scattered rainfall. We decided to shop around and check out Flyover Canada, a recreation facility that offers simulated flying journeys over Canada. I'd seen a trailer for this show on YouTube and found it very impressive, but the experience was more fun than we could have imagined. Located in Canada Place in Downtown Vancouver, the simulation ride lasts about 20 minutes of sheer thrill. We were made to sit in flight-motion seats with seat belts to give us a real feeling of flight as the seats swooped over mountains, lakes, and volcanoes, leaving us in raptures. The 4 D experience includes wind, mist, and the scents of the region we flew over. The show covers Canada's entire length and breadth with spellbinding special effects. My Tip for You This show was spectacular. The only negative is that it should have lasted a bit longer than 20 minutes. By the time the feeling of euphoria kicks in, it's time to get off the seat. The facility is very organised. Photography inside is strictly prohibited. Apart from these top 5 not-to-miss attractions, a day trip to the beautiful mountain town of Whistler and Victoria, the stunning capital city of British Columbia, should be on your itinerary too. We visited Whistler on our last visit, so I'll share my experience with you here. We visited Victoria again. On our last day trip, we opted for a whale-watching cruise. It was super fun, to say the least, but that left little time for anything else. This time, we drove around the city and visited the famous Butchart Gardens and the beautiful area around Ogden Point Breakwater, the popular walk near Downtown Victoria. Best Day Trips from Vancouver Day Trip to Whistler from Vancouver Day four turned out to be sunny again. Since we had planned our day trip around the sunny weather forecast, the trip to the beautiful capital of British Columbia turned out to be a huge success https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-trip-to-victoria-bc-from-vancouver Day Trip to Victoria from Vancouver We had done a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver on our previous trip to Canada https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-whistler-from-vancouver-in-summer So, that is Vancouver for you. After having visited it twice, I'd like to sum up by listing these Top 5 Not-to-Miss attractions that are unique to the city and a great way to spend your time in Vancouver. If you're travelling with kids, then visiting the Science World and Vancouver Aquarium should also feature on your itinerary. I. Victoria - Picture-perfect destination. Ideally, one should keep at least two days to soak in the ethereal beauty of this city, go on a whale-watching tour and see the Butchart Gardens. II. Whistler - Visit for its world's longest and highest lift system called Peak 2 Peak Gondola and Whistler Blackcomb, the largest ski resort in North America. III. Capilano Suspension Bridge - This unique park is a perfect getaway for families. IV. Stanley Park - The park offers a great outdoors, and the Seawall is a must-see. V. Granville Island - A great way to spend a memorable evening, it has great eateries, and the place is vibrant and fun.

A day trip to the famous Columbia Ice Field and the Athabasca Glacier was the last outing on our road trip around Alberta. Before we visited the Columbia Icefield, I did not know the difference between an icefield and a glacier. So, let me start there. An icefield, as the name suggests, is a large mass or field of ice made up of multiple glaciers. Columbia Icefield, spread over 325 square kilometres, is the largest icefield in North America. Whew!! It straddles the boundaries of Banff and Jasper National Parks and comprises 6 major glaciers. Of these 6, Athabasca Glacier, part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world's most accessible glaciers; hence, every bit touristy. View of the Athabasca Glacier flowing from the icefield between the two mountain cliffs as seen from the terrace of Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre..... What makes an outing to this glacier really thrilling is the entire experience of reaching it on an all-terrain Ice Explorer! The Ice Explorer is a huge vehicle with massive tyres designed specifically for travel on the fragile surface of the glacier. It can carry up to 56 passengers at one time. Exploring the Columbia Ice Field and Athabasca Glacier Driving along the Icefields Parkway The entire province of Alberta is beautiful, but the road leading to the Columbia Ice Fields needs a special mention as it winds its way through breathtaking scenery. The Canadian Rockies that were visible from afar throughout the journey are now up close as we drove past them here. So, keep extra time for this drive as you'll be tempted to halt at every turn to click a picture. En route to the Columbia Icefield....I'm sure you wouldn't want to miss this, would you? The tour starts from the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre located on Icefields Parkway Highway 93 N. You must plan to reach the centre at least 30 minutes before the departure time that you wish to avail. There is a tour every 15 minutes, and your ticket is valid for the entire day. You will need 2.5 to 3 hours at the icefield. Getting to the Athabasca Glacier The Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre is a very well-organised facility. There are signs everywhere to guide you to the correct queue, and be prepared for queues everywhere. We arrived right on time for our tour. We were led to an open waiting area and from there onto a shuttle. The shuttle drove us to the point where the Ice Explorers were parked. This gigantic bus drives at a snail's pace through the paved road near the icefield, making deep ridges on the ice as it passes... This 10 to 15-minute drive up the glacier is accompanied by a very interesting commentary about the icefield and the glacier. I was happy to learn that despite the heavy inflow of tourists, the fragile ecosystem of the icefield is preserved vigilantly. So much so that before the ice explorer hits the glacier, it is made to pass through a small natural pool of meltwater called the 'tyre wash'. This is done to ensure that the debris from the surroundings is not carried onto the glacier and soils it. As the ice explorer rumbles on, the beauty of the ice field starts unfolding in front of our eyes. Upon reaching the glacier, we de-board the ice explorer, and this is what we see... We are greeted by huge mammoths of snow, icy cold winds and a rapidly thawing snow floor willing to give away the moment we step on it! There is a lot of mirthful shrieking all around as people's feet dip into the icy chasms of the glacier. A 15-minute window is allocated to each ice explorer; tourists are expected to return to the vehicle within that time slot. The ice explorer brings us back to the bus stand, we board the bus again and are driven in the shuttle to the riveting Skywalk. Columbia Icefield Skywalk Skywalk is a one-kilometre-long glass-bottom walkway built over the Sunwapta Valley. The glass platform is 280 metres high and offers beautiful views of the valley. The entire skywalk is lined with signage and displays with interesting information about this ecosystem. We spent about 45 minutes here and then took the connecting free shuttle back to the Discovery Centre. Path to the Skywalk, scenic views all around and the trees that look like specks of green through the glass of the Skywalk.... Tips for visiting the Athabasca Glacier The best time to visit the icefield is in the morning before 11 am or after 3 pm when the crowds are thin. We booked a tour after 3 pm and got a discount. You should check their website for any additional discounts on your day of travel before making the booking. The Columbia Icefield Adventure is heavily booked. You must plan this trip to ensure that you don't miss it. There are 2 tour options available. Option 1 is Glacier Adventure, which includes the Skywalk. Option 2 is Ice Odyssey, where you are taken in a smaller group higher up the glacier. For Glacier Adventure, park in the lower Jasper-side parking lot. A very wide open stairway will lead you directly into the Discovery Centre. Carry proper woollen clothing in summer too. It can get very cold on the glacier with icy winds blowing all around you. Just about a 10-minute walk away and at a slightly steep incline from the parking lot is the stunning Peyto Lake. Don't miss it! A visit to the Athabasca Glacier is a journey back in time. And the receding glaciers, too, have a story to tell! Don't miss this amazing experience on your trip through Alberta.