My pictures with their little stories

A much needed break...may be. Noticed these three security personnel with their dog at Kolkata airport . They seemed to be going through something very interesting in the newspaper or magazine. This was possibly a much needed break for them or was it ?

On top of Dhangkar monastery, Spiti While the experience of feeling the 1000 year tradition of worship and meditation inside Dhangkar monastery was humbling,  the nature opened up the vision when we went atop the monastery. The quiet of the mountains and snow coexisted with the sound of the wind.

Kalka - Shimla Railway Single line narrow gauge especially in the hills - this is a different world altogether. The trains on these tracks are never intimidating. They are friendly and charming and definitely not macho. Best thing to happen is that you do not know the railway timetable which means that train could suddenly appear from nowhere.

Light through the forest cover at Kanha The feeling of mysterious tranquility can only be experienced in a forest. Few days at Kanha allowed us to soak ourselves in that feeling. The light through thick cover of trees is an eternally enchanting sight. Looking at the trees make you realise that they have been around for a long long time before you appeared on this planet and will continue to be around for a long time after you are gone. Just like the mountains, these trees have the quality of giving you that reality check which many of us need so often.

Dancers at Cologne Cathedral While we were admiring the architectural marvel of Cologne Cathedral , this group of dancers in their black attire attracted everyone. The energetic dancing by these youngsters on the backdrop of the historic and imposing cathedral was a surprise treat.

Temple on the highway in Himachal We have passed and stopped by at this temple several times while travelling in Himachal .  For a change, it is well maintained, clean, there are no beggars here and there is a rest room nearby which does not stink. Actually, the perfect model for what a temple ought to be.

Tea is ready Each morning at the Ranikhet camp in Kumaon was a treat. They have this rustic place with wooden benches and tea is ready with crisp toasts (which only go well with chai) first thing in the morning. Can there be anything more pleasurable than soaking in the early morning sun, sipping chai while you look at the valley below from the mountains ? The chai, the morning sun and the tranquil surroundings make you thank the almighty for blessing you with this wonderful morning.