On top of Jama Masjid,New Delhi

siddharthjain — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 17:19:00 GMT

here's a wonderful secret spot and vantage point in New Delhi.

For a bird's eye view of New Delhi, head to Jama Masjid ( one can reach there by taking the Delhi Subway-station Chawri Bazaar) and then walk towards it . The ticket costs Rs 30 ( for Indians ) to climb up the minaret .It closes by 4 :30 pm . Post the climb one can feast from the various food outlets available around Jama Masjid (including the famous Karim's ) . Wear proper clothing to enter the Jama Masjid and climb the minaret .

A visit to Bhuira Jams ,Himachal Pradesh

siddharthjain — Sat, 8 Nov 2014 03:52:00 GMT

So, this was one trip that was literally unplanned. We did n’t booked any confirmed train tickets and ended up travelling in general class. Instead of taxis we decided to stop at bus stations, have chai and hop on to the next bus that would take us closer to the destination.

And we discussed cultures, way of living, Borges, poetry, movies, entrepreneurship and more on the way.

All of which was worth it as we reached to the village of Bhuira, nestled in Himachal, in a quiet remote corner of the state, where miracles happen everyday. Chances are if you might have visited any upscale or well-stocked general store in New Delhi and looked for jams you might have found neat looking bottles of Bhuira Jams.

I first heard about Bhuira in 2011 and was fascinated by their story. Always wanted to make a visit and see how they operate in real. Group of village women, working their way out and changing the economic landscape of the entire village .In the process not only making the region famous, but also creating world-class jams and chutneys. Initiated by Mrs. Linette Mushran, the group of women met, understood their resources and ambition and slowly made a business out of it overcoming all the challenges that one might face in a startup. As of now they have 27 varieties of jams and they all look yum. To be honest I have never picked up so many jams at once but am happy I did so.

You can find them easily in Delhi and other parts of India, but in case someone wants to make a special trip, then head to Himachal Pradesh. The route we took was

New Delhi-Kalka (train)- Solan ( via bus)-Rajgarh (via bus) –Bhuira ( by bus and taxi both)

One can make a night stay in Rajgarh or in retreats that are close by in the area. As they say journey is the destination ,its worth a trip to this non touristy place .

Muse from a traveler and photographer in India

On top of Jama Masjid,New Delhi

A visit to Bhuira Jams ,Himachal Pradesh