My pictures with their little stories

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.

Goan house Noticed this pretty house somewhere on the outskirts of Goa while driving. It was so charming that I had to stop by and take pictures. Climbed the steps to check in from close quarters but the closer view was not all that charming. Despite that, the impression of this house remains etched in my mind.

Going to school in the mountains Special admiration is due for the children in the mountains. Many of them have to trek significant distances to go to school.  Children in the cities cannot even imagine the kind of hardships these children have to go through.  Over the last so many years, in my numerous travels in the mountains, what has amazed me is the happiness that radiates from the faces of these children despite the hardships they have to undergo in their day to day life.