Travel Guide: Meghalaya

The green rolling hills.

The abode of clouds.

The land of waterfalls.

Scenic beauty the mind can barely begin to appreciate.

Our Itinerary:

Day 1
Landed at Guwahti Airport in Assam. Flights here are more frequent and cheaper than flying to Shillong directly.
Shillong from Guwahti airport is approximately a 3 hour drive that is very scenic and crosses Umiam
Lake which in itself worth a visit.
You can get taxis at the airport or pre arrange a pickup from Shillong. Self drive cars are also easily available online with a bit research.

Enroute Umiam Lake, stop by for food or Pineapples at Nongpoh, Khasi food is recommended here.

We reached Shnongpdeng where we camped by the Dawki river.
There are numerous adventure activities one can indulge in here like Zip Lining, kayaking, Rock Jumping, night fishing and more
There are numerous companies that provide these facilities and its easy to find and book online.

Tent costs around Rs. 800 each and food is 200 to 300 per meal per head.
Adventure activities is from Rs. 200 to Rs. 500 only
DON'T PAY MORE THAN THIS EVEN IN SEASON

Day 2
We headed out to Tamabil, The Indo-Bangladesh border which is an interesting experience. While its nothing like the fervor one may experience at the India Pakistan border at Wagah, the mere fact that a simple road separates 2 countries makes one wonder why a part of the country was banished away like that.
The Dawki river also runs between Meghalaya and Bangladesh and there is a Border Security force that's manning the river banks too.

Post Tamabil, we headed to Mawlyngbna  for our River Canyoning activity.  but first stopped over to visit a beautiful cascading waterfall, deep inside the hillocks. One has to drive off the main road for a km or so and then hike for about 10 minutes but the detour is absolutely worth it.

 Post that we moved on to our cottages in Mawlyngbna for the best hospitality we got during our trip and spent the rest of the evening relaxing and playing indoor games that we took along with us

Day 3.
The first of the 2 most unique experiences of our trip.
River Canyoning. I wont get into too much details as this one needs to be experienced more than described but rest assured its an adventure activity you would never have experienced before. One needs a certain will to be able to complete this course but the feeling at the end is one of absolute joy.

Post the River Canyoning we moved on to kayaking before breaking for lunch.
After lunch we moved on to Sohra to stay at Sai Mika resorts at Cherrapunjee to get ready for the Double Decker bridge trek.

Day 4
We started off with visiting Nokhalikai falls before proceeding to Nongriat the starting point of the Double Decker roots bridge. (I missed this due to a minor accident I had during the River canyoning activity but that was my fault and not a reason to alarmed as I was getting extra adventurous)

1st October - Sai Mika. Reach Monday night. Tuesday and Wednesday we do the 2 treks, Double Decker bridge, watch the waterfalls, Caves etc. Possible

2nd and 3rd October - Nongriat  - The Double decker and other trek will be on tuesday and wednesday. Yes

4th October - Mawphanlur - We reach here by thursday afternoon. Day time we can see this beautiful place, kayak and essentially admire Mother Nature and rest. Yes

5th October - Sha-ri-Loum/Lachumiere. Friday we reach Shillong by early afternoon and indulge in some sightseeing and stay the night. - Yes

6th October - Ashirwad Heritage - Saturday we reach here by evening / night. Do laitlum and Smit on this day, and then head to Guwahati.

C. Things that can be added on based on time - A visit to a hidden waterfall, Boating at Umiam Lake

C. Things that can be added on based on time - Zip Lining at Mawkdok, Elephant Falls, Mawphlang Sacred Groves

2nd and 3rd October

A. (Unchangeable things) - Stay at Nongriat, Guide for Nongriat Trek

B. Things you will definitely be experiencing - Cherrapunjee sightseeing which inlcudes Nokhalikhai Falls, Seven Sister falls, Arwah Caves, Laitmawsiang, Mawsmai Caves, Trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridges (Start this by 2:30pm max)

C. Things that can be added on based on time - You have all the time in the world. Go discover all the natural pools and find your spots. Forget about everything else. 

D. Things that are included - Your stay in Nongriat, Breakfast at Sai Mika, Guides

E. Things you will have to pay for separately - Lunch, Dinner and Snacks. Alcohol, Entry Points to Double Decker (Rs. 20 per person). 

F. Please ensure you pick up enough alcohol and munchies for two full days. You will be swimming a lot, and in water, you'd want to come back to nice munchies. Food options in Nongriat village are limited to chips, Maggi and meals. Also, please do carry a waste disposal bag with you to Nongriat and bring back all the alcohol bottles, chips packets, etc.

4th October

A. (Unchangeable things) - Stay at Mawphanlur

B. Things you will definitely be experiencing - Zip Lining at Mawkdok (if you missed out earlier), Comfort Food at Mawkdok.

C. Things that can be added on based on time - Anything you missed out on, on your first day in Cherrapunjee

D. Things that are included - Your stay in Mawphanlur, Guide, Vehicle, Breakfast

E. Things you will have to pay for separately - Lunch, Dinner and Snacks. Alcohol 

F. Re-stock your alcohol at Cherrapunjee market if required for the night.

5th October

A. (Unchangeable things) - Stay at Shillong, Guides

B. Things you will definitely be experiencing - Kayaking, Boating at Mawphanlur, Serene Spots in Mawphanlur

C. Things that can be added on based on time - Mawphlang Sacred Groves, Don Bosco Museum, Wards Lake, Shillong Peak

D. Things that are included - Your stay in Shillong, Breakfast, ChaloHoppo Guy, Vehicle

E. Things you will have to pay for separately - Lunch, Dinner and Snacks. Alcohol, Entry Points to sightseeing locations, if any

F. Visit the pubs and cafes of Shillong. There is likely to be a gig on the weekend.

6th October

A. (Unchangeable things) - Stay at Ashirwad Heritage

B. Things you will definitely be experiencing - Smit Village, Rice Beer, Laitlum Canyons

C. Things that can be added on based on time - Boating at Umiam, Brahmaputra Cruise in Guwahati, Mising Food in Guwahati

D. Things that are included - Your stay in Guwahati, Breakfast

E. Things you will have to pay for separately - Lunch, Dinner and Snacks. Alcohol, Entry Points to sightseeing locations, if any

F. Lots of wine shops in and around Guwahati. A nice pub to visit would be Shanghai Salsa, if you're looking to dance since you mentioned someones B'day - I'd say your best bet would be Taj, or Nyx

7th October

Drive to Guwahati Airport

Let me know if you have any doubts. Happy to get on a call.

Book Review: Ramayana versus Mahabharata 4*s

The Hindu Religion, Philosophy & Belief system borrows heavily from the two epics of Ramayan and Mahabharatha.

While the Rig Veda & Bhagvat Gita also set the tone for Hinduism and its customs, the primary focus has always been on the Ramayan and Mahabharata because the stories have a more human form to them which makes the characters easier to resonate with people.

Also given how these two epics have spawned off numerous versions and variations, plays, stories, serials etc, has increased their reach and understanding amongst the common man.

In the Ramayana versus Mahabharata  Devdutt Pattanaik has extensively researched the two epics, understood the regional and language variations and penned down what he says is a playful analysis of the two.

Devdutt Pattanaik has to be appreciated for his efforts of bringing the two on a common platform.
To be able to draw as many parallels and commonalities in depth as this book has done, definitely requires and in-depth understanding and a keen attention to detail.

The similarities, or opposites in many cases leave one spell bound as to their uncanny nature.
The 2 plots, in details seem to feed off one another or to be more specific, The Mahabaratha seems to feed off the Ramayana simply because the the latter was the first of the two.
While certain aspects follow a linear line, some become circular and take an action reaction context.
I am not delving into specifics, because I like the readers to discover the details and make up their on minds as to the applicability of his perspective, but one will surely have a mental debate as to whether you agree with the analysis or not and to that effect makes it a very enjoyable book if you are keen to delve into our mythologies.

In today's modern life, we often question the legitimacy of the events of the two epics and wonder if the stories have been taken from folklore and spread over a period of time.
Indeed very little scientific evidence has been found that suggests that these two in fact did take place.

But on the corollary, how does one explain its presence even thousands of years later in the modern world. How does one explain the spread of the stories, the message, the philosophy beyond the shores of India deep into South East Asia.

Hindu religion, the peoples ideals, morals and values even today are largely based on the two epics so one would say they are here to stay and no amount of discussion, debates, and counter claims is going to make it go away.

In that context, reading this book and understanding a lot of aspects of what happened back then, which may seem unfair now, is perfectly justified as right and even celebrated as victory.

Devdutt Pattanaik has done a wonderful job of attempting to modernize the values, belief and justice system, and help explain their relevance in today's context.

The book also refers to its evolution over time givens India's invasion by the Mughal's and later by the British who brought in their own value systems and beliefs.

All in all, a very interesting read.

Book Review: Goodbye Freddie Mercury 3.5*s

As an Indian, I have been curious about the life and lifestyle of the average Pakistani and always wondered what it's like, on the other side of the "BORDER".

This was my first literary experience and it was an interesting read. The commonalities, the similar interests, the hopeless situation, the inevitable political corruption. One wonders how different things would have been if it wasn't for the partition. Would we live in a safer environment?
Unfortunately in both countries the situation seems equally dire, with a level of hopelessness that is mirrored on both sides.

Lahore is burning is the first line in the description, and its not just the weather they are referring to.

Terror attacks, Suicide Bombers, Political & Business Corruption is just as normal and ordinary as the sun rising by day, the moon by night or the rain during monsoons. it just seems to be an accepted way of life.

And that is where Nida Akbars writing skills come to the fore. In Goodbye Freddie Mercury, she has handled a very delicate story line, among a highly sensitive set of situations and comes out with a very good book.
She has a very easy writing style, that keeps the story flowing and in the case of Goodbye Freddie Mercury, Nida doesn't let it slow down which is commendable for a first time writer.
She has alternated view points between Bugsy and Nida, keeping an element of freshness and suspense throughout the story. As a reader, one really wants to know what is going to happen next to each of them and whether they survive the various situations they experience in life. The biggest fear being what if any of them gets caught?

Every character, and there are numerous ones along the way, finds a way to connect with the readers and for that Nida deserves high praise. The testosterone heavy situations are deftly balanced with sufficient details and yet enough left to the imagination.

The story line revolves around the quagmire situations that Nida and Bugsy respectively find themselves in and how they have to deal with the problems and find a way to extricate themselves safely.

Do they manage to do so unscathed? What body blows do they have to face? Does the book have a happy ending, or will you have a sense of inevitability when it concludes, an "I Told you so" feeling?

Irrespective of your perspective, you wont be able to deny the emotional feeling that will overcome you one knowing the ending. It definitely left me hurting and am sure a lot more people to.

Go read it to, experience their lives.

P.S.  - It has one of the most artistic and Gorgeous covers ever seen :)

Book review - Eleventh Hour by S. Hussain Zaidi. 4.5*s

Bravery.

Dedication.

Skill.

Belief.

Manipulation.

Heroics.

Sacrifice.

Patriotism.

These are but some of the emotions on display in this fast paced and well written book, Eleventh Hour by S. Hussain Zaidi.

This thriller novel unravels a terrorist plot and the manhunt that ensues to stop the terrorist and protect their country.
The book is so well written, that it might as well be a movie plot. Fast paced, action sequences, suspense, romance, tragedy, an ensemble of interesting characters makes this a very enjoyable read.
Its rare for a book to grip you from the first page, but this book literally does exactly that. Jumps straight in the thick of the action like an opening scene of a Bond Movie.

What I liked about S. Hussain Zaidi is that he neither defended, glorified or criticized the terrorists and religion in any way which was refreshing. All too often we see writers incorporate their personal feelings into the stories and in effect take sides. And I am not even referring to whether the good guys win at the end or not.

Another interesting aspect is the intelligence, planning, resourcefulness and organizing by the terrorists. All too often they are showcased as gun slinging people happy to kill innocents randomly, but what is often over seen is their meticulous planning, their strategies etc. Makes one wonder how they can evade and outsmart the official defense agencies so routinely so often.

Overall a very well written book that will definitely leave you satisfied at the end of it. A true page turner that is a good, quick read.

Book Review - Jobs be Damned. 3.5*s

Is mediocrity acceptable? - Well, the world needs mediocre people in any case.

Does that mean we don't rise above the levels of mediocrity? - Certainly not.

And there in, lies the rub.

On a literary level, there is some harsh truths laid bare, veils removed, and mysteries uncovered; all laced with a good sense of humor in the book.
May I add a disclaimer here on a personal note - Just like in Tequila, take the book with a pinch of salt.

Jobs Be Damned by Rishi Piparaiya is a "Satirical" guide to navigate your Corporate Life, deal with shitty politics, wing your way through tricky situations and emerge a corporate success.

What is the rub? The definition of Corporate Success.!

Image Courtesy - Cartoon Stock

Rishi Piparaiya's Job Be Damned,  essentially says pretty much everybody is an Average Employee in the company and has attempted to help guide people to be the best Average Employee they can be.

Why is everybody average, you may wonder?
Think of the Pyramid. The Number of people higher up only gets smaller as you get higher, essentially saying everybody else is Average.




Does this take into account talent, skill, opportunity, education etc? Who cares, as long as its appealing to the lowest common denominator

Jobs be Damned, decodes why the corporate world is the way it is, in the eyes of Rishi Piparaiya.
He shares harsh truths about the corporate world that if you think about it are pretty accurate.
His advise ranges from - Writing up ones CV, how to be at the job interview, to handling your boss and if your a mid level professional, how to handle your sub-ordinates as well.

His spectrum of topics include - How to behave at the office party, Town hall meetings, how to be part of meetings at work and most importantly how to handle work itself.
Not to miss out the most crucial factor - relationship management at the work place and the all important appraisal discussions.

His advises on how to deal with various situations one will experience in the corporate life, can be far fetched and theatrical at times, as well as downright impossible to even think of at others.
Perhaps, one can use it as a road map to making your own strategies. Formulating your own plans keeping in mind his views which are not fully incorrect.
.
After reading the book, I wondered - Should one remain Average all their life? Become the best Average person at work there could be, but Average nonetheless.
Or break out of the rat race and find a middle ground that satisfies various aspects.

Read the book, smile, Wisen up , and then do your thing :)

Book Review: The Shrine of Death - 4.5*s

Friendship.

Love.

Prejudice.

Greed.

The four pillars on which the Shrine of Death has been based upon. A thriller in every sense, that unravels like the warmth of the sun in winter. Steady, gradual and with an enjoyable warmth the longer it stays.
Divya Kumar, the author has paced the story well with intrigue, suspense and determination all coming to the fore.

The Shrine of  Death highlights many aspects of modern day society that will connect with its readers. While some are definitely positive in their aspects which include the determination of Prabha and Jai in finding answers about Sneha and reaching out to her to help her despite not having been in touch in the recent past or in Jai's case a reason that you will understand only if you read the book.

I have always wondered what it would be like to feel what someone else feels, to experience their emotions, to attain true empathy. Because while people try to express themselves through words which may not always provide the right picture, their emotions can never lie.
Through this book I have discovered what it would be like to have such an ability. Could it be a gift or a curse. Can ones emotions over ride your own? For a loved one, yes.
But what about a stranger. What about an acquaintance? Would you be able to ignore a cry for help, especially if that was a cry of emotions that one felt but was too scared to verbalize.

The Shrine of Death also showcases the negative prejudices that are ingrained in our society. Where people are quick to judge without knowing or understanding the complete picture.
Where friendships are broken, relationships strained and mis-trust brewing.

Prabha Sinha & Jai Vadehra are determined to solve the mysteries at hand and doggedly pursue every aspect of the situation. What is good to see is that Divya Kumar, the author has stayed away from glorifying the efforts of the two. While they unravel parts of the  mystery, they don't have answers to every question which brings in the rest of the characters to the fore front like DSP Ratnaraj, or their journalist friend Riaz. The story does not stray from its purpose and intent which showcases a mature write behind the story.

The Shrine of Death is definitely a good read and should be on everyone' s list.

Memories of Fire - 4.5*s

Overwhelmed. Intoxicated. In Awe. Giddy with insights. Inspired.  YET Angry. Disturbed. Upset. Overall an extremely heady and satisfying feeling.

These are but a few of the emotions I experienced reading this brilliant brilliant book.

Memories of Fire by Ashok Chopra is one of the most insightful books you will ever read.
Its almost like an encyclopedia more than a book. With numerous references, detailed background information and insightful anecdotes, this is a  treasure trove of a read.

IF one were to judge an author by the book he writes, then surely one would sing praises of the man. His vast knowledge, in-dept research and citations makes this a read beyond just a book.
It's almost like researching about the best poems and literature that one could read in a lifetime.


One of the reasons why I wanted to read the Memories of Fire is the fact that it is set around the partition and early years of India's Independence as well as the formative years of Pakistan.

I have always wanted to know what causes the animosity between the people of the two countries (certainly beyond the obvious).
While I had my own beliefs, they were merely based on the little snippets I have read from here and there. This book describes quite extensively the situation prevalent in both countries around the time of partition and while the focus is around the then state of Punjab it does showcase the mood and sentiment of the people that is even prevalent today.

The story revolves around the life of 5 friends, which in ways represents the unity in diversity that we experience in India and beyond. Coming from different backgrounds, cultures and religious beliefs, yet being the closest of friends, there for each other for life (literally) and is a fulcrum around which revolves this epic book.
Their backgrounds and differences showcases how as individuals we humans may differ but left to our own devices we can find a commonality that bridges any gap provided we don't cave in to external influences.

A brief synopsis of the 5 friends and their life without revealing the actual story:

Shyam Singh : The most gut wrenching life experience of the four in my opinion. If what transpired was true, I wonder why it dint lead to more well defined laws around Euthanasia in India. Would you have the courage to do that we did in his situation?

Vijay Thakur: The larger part of the book involves him. He is like that omnipresent personality who is there for everyone, everywhere almost all the time. Will naturally be amongst everyone's favorite.

Reza Khan: Is a bit of an enigma. There is not a lot written about his personal life but his love for literature will make any ones pale in comparison. He seems to have the most comfortable life amongst the group.

Balbir: Perhaps the highest pain is reserved for Balbir. His entire belief system, upbringing and culture come into serious dilemma. He has to some tough choices in life and how he copes is part of this journey. His choices define his life and while some work out perfectly, does he get a fairy tale ending?

Deepak Kumar: Plays a supporting role in this story. His letters exchanged with Reza Khan are fascinating reads.

Is Balbir's choice tougher or does Shyam have to make the greater sacrifice. Which one would you be able to make if you were confronted with them?

Read the book and let me know. And be rest assured you will feel mentally fulfilled after this.