Saturday, February 14, 2026

A Solo Drive Across Western India: From Pune to the White Rann of Kutch


Some journeys stay with you long after they end—not because of the destination alone, but because of the road, the solitude, and the stories you collect along the way. This was one such journey: a solo, multi‑day road trip across Maharashtra and Gujarat, driven entirely by curiosity, confidence, and a deep love for the open road.





Day 1: Pune to Nashik – A Calm Beginning

I started my journey on a Monday afternoon, leaving Pune around 3 PM. The drive to Nashik was smooth and comfortable, a perfect warm‑up for the adventure ahead. I reached Nashik around 8 PM, checked in, and called it an early night. A good night’s sleep was essential—the real journey was just about to begin.


Day 2: Nashik to Ahmedabad – Ghats, Forests, and a Surprise Expressway

The day began with coffee, and by 8 AM I was back on the road. Soon after, I entered Saputara, and from there, the drive turned incredibly scenic. The route through the ghats and the stretch passing through the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary was a visual treat—lush greenery, winding roads, and rivers flowing alongside in certain regions.

Just before Navsari, near Tankal, Google Maps diverted me onto NE4, and what followed was an unexpected delight. I found myself on the Mumbai–Vadodara–Delhi Expressway, a high‑speed corridor with a maximum speed limit of 120 kmph. The drive was effortless, uninterrupted, and honestly exhilarating.





I stopped at a food plaza along the way for a traditional Kathiawadi lunch before continuing onward. Thanks to the expressway, reaching Ahmedabad felt easy, and I arrived around 5:30 PM. After dealing with some city traffic and checking into my hotel, I rested for the night.


Day 3: Ancient Stepwells, Modhera, and the Road to Dholavira

While planning my route to Modhera, I stumbled upon an old stepwell—locally known as a “bav.” Curious, I decided to add it to the itinerary.

I started early at 7:30 AM and reached the bav first. The architecture was remarkable, a clear reflection of the brilliance of ancient designers and craftsmen. From there, I headed to the Modhera Sun Temple. Visiting the temple in its calm, peaceful surroundings was a wonderful experience. I tried capturing its beauty on camera, but some things simply need to be felt—no photograph can truly do justice to that level of craftsmanship.








After lunch on the way, I continued my drive toward Dholavira, making sure to reach before sunset. My stay was at White Rann Resort.

Traveling solo, I was looking for a place that was peaceful, non‑touristy, and convenient for covering major nearby attractions. White Rann Resort checked all those boxes. The atmosphere was warm and homely, especially since the host family stays on the property. Accommodation options included private cottages and rooms with basic amenities, including hot water. Dinner and breakfast were included and prepared in a simple, homely style. For anyone seeking a quiet and comfortable stay in Dholavira, I would definitely recommend it.

That evening, I headed out to witness the sunset near the starting point of the famous Road to Heaven. After dinner, I enjoyed a peaceful and restful sleep.


Day 4: Dholavira, White Rann, and the Weight of History

After a homely breakfast, I started at 8 AM for the Harappan site at Dholavira. Standing amidst a 5,000‑year‑old civilization was humbling. The advanced techniques for water conservation, city planning, and trade left me in awe—and slightly philosophical. It made me question whether we have truly advanced, or merely evolved differently.

From there, I visited Kala Dungar (Black Hills) and Datta Mandir, before heading to Dhordo White Rann. The drive along the Road to Heaven was spectacular, with views of pelicans and flamingoes adding magic to the journey.

My first experience of the White Rann was serene and memorable. I didn’t linger too long, but the vastness and silence made a lasting impression. After lunch, I started for my next halt.


Day 5: Halvad – A Necessary Pause

Starting a bit late meant I reached Halvad, midway between Bhuj and Ahmedabad, around 7:30 PM. I had dinner, rested well, and prepared mentally for the long drive the next day.


Day 6: Halvad to Vapi – Smooth Miles

I hit the road at 7 AM and followed the same expressway route. By 4:30 PM, I reached Vapi, where my hotel was conveniently located right next to the highway. Since I had planned to stop there anyway, I took a few short breaks along the way. The stay was comfortable, followed by dinner and a good night’s sleep.


Day 7: Vapi to Pune – Traffic and Triumph

The final leg began early at 7 AM and turned out to be the most traffic‑heavy stretch. Passing through Vapi, Vasai, Virar, Thane, and Mumbai meant inevitable congestion. As expected, the Mumbai–Pune Expressway tested my patience, but despite the traffic, I managed to reach home by 3 PM.


Final Thoughts

This journey was truly a lifetime experience—a solo, multi‑day road trip that pushed boundaries and rewarded me with unforgettable memories. I enjoyed every moment, grateful for my trusted companion, Thar Roxx, and for my family, who believed I could take on this journey alone.

Sometimes, the road doesn’t just take you to places—it helps you discover yourself.


Sunday, June 08, 2025

Ranthank Khark Trek: A Journey Within

 Embarking on the Ranthan Khark trek was more than just a physical adventure—it was a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and connection. As a first-time multi-day trekker, I stepped into the unknown with a mix of excitement and apprehension. The preparation itself was a learning curve—understanding gear, building stamina, and mentally preparing for the challenges ahead.

  

From the very first step on the trail, I realized this trek would be life-changing. The terrain tested my limits, but the spirit of the group lifted me. Our trek leader, with their infectious energy and deep knowledge, made every moment feel safe and inspiring. My fellow trekkers, though strangers at first, quickly became companions in this shared pursuit of something greater than ourselves.












Despite being a novice, I never felt like an outsider. The camaraderie, the shared laughter, and the collective awe at nature’s grandeur made me feel like I belonged. Each day brought new lessons—about nature, about people, and most importantly, about myself.

   

The summit morning was nothing short of magical. As the first rays of the sun kissed the snow-capped peaks, a profound stillness settled over us. That sunrise wasn’t just a visual spectacle—it was a moment of clarity, a reminder of how small yet significant we are in the vastness of the world.

This trek has ignited a spark in me. What began as a one-time adventure has now become a calling. I know this is just the beginning. Many more trails await, and I’m ready to walk them—with open eyes, a stronger heart, and a soul eager to explore.


Sunday, December 25, 2022

INDIA - In words

 

INDIA


India, land of ancient wisdom and modern progress,

A nation rich in diversity and unity,

From the snow-capped mountains to the golden sands,

Our land is filled with beauty that never ends.


The Ganges flows with life and majesty,

As the Taj Mahal stands tall in history,

From the forests of the north to the southern seas,

Our nation is a treasure, a land of great ease.


We are the children of Gandhi and Nehru,

Who fought for our freedom and paved the way,

For a nation that stands tall and proud today,

A beacon of hope in a world full of doubt.


India, our motherland, we love and adore,

With all our hearts and with all our soul,

We stand as one, united and whole,

A nation that will never be brought down or ignored.


So let us raise our flag with pride,

And sing our national anthem loud,

For we are the people of India,

And our future shines bright and proud.


credited to ChatGPT by openai

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Quotes on India - Part 1


What does great minds have to say about India. 





This is not specific for my country but still a great quote for people who says what is there to be proud of India.







Sunday, April 05, 2020

Day .....X ...in lockdown (COVID - 19 Outbreak)

Explore More :)

Sunday, January 12, 2020

All about Vedas



Recently I was interested to understand more about Indian Vedas and how they are treated as vast source of knowledge. The first search of course was on net and here below I reached some resourceful data

thanks to facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Vedictruth/

Excerpt from the quora commentary


Yes all the four Vedas with authentic commentaries according to the vedic tradition of the nirukta and nighantu grammar of vedic sanskrit are available online both in Hindi and English.
I am giving links to the full authentic commentaries on Vedas uploaded on the google drive.
RigVeda - ऋग्वेद -
RigVeda - ऋग्वेद
YajurVeda - यजुर्वेद -
YajurVeda - यजुर्वेद
SamaVeda - सामवेद -
SamaVeda - सामवेद
AtharvaVeda - अथर्ववेद -
AtharvaVeda - अथर्ववेद
Introduction to the Commentary on the 4 Vedas -
Introduction to the Commentry on the 4 Vedas
Books on Vedas -
Books on Vedas
I advice you to first read very important book named 'Introduction to the Commentary on the 4 Vedas'. This book is the master key to Vedas, I request you to first read this book before start reading the Vedas, because it is introduction to them, and we should have basic knowledge about the Vedas before reading them.
you can visit page on the Vedas on Facebook 'Veda'
Veda

Friday, March 08, 2019

Cyber Security Awareness - Few Suggestions

Following the topic on cyber security awareness, few points and tips, which I also follow:

>.Use browser and search engines which are not storing non required data for its use. I use Duck Duck Go to search instead of Google since last 6 months or so. Difficult to adjust but if you are using chrome, you can configure search engine (settings > manage search engine) and add Duck Duck Go as prefered
>. that reminds, use chrome or if possible firefox focus, this browser does not store your details and its easy to clean cache and history using 1 click
>.chrome is also Google :) so it may still store some data but its okay as long as you are clearing cache and history regularly, specially after any monetory transaction
> do not store data for auto-fill for any or all sites, keep it to minimal and try to remember more
> always use secure sites for payment (bank/CC), see "https" on URL and "lock" icon if on chrome
>. you may use social media, but do not post too much personal posts/pics, remember whatever goes on internet remains forever, be very careful and sensetive, especially for pics/data of kids/minors.
>. do not accept any friend request on social media just because he is in friendlist of one of your mutual friends, many people just keep adding strangers to increase their list
>. keep vigil on what your child is watching, recent example shows, even shows and videos specially made for kids are hacked and inserted with nonsense stuff
>. no need to click and see/save every link/image/video sent by someone unless you really know the person or think its important
>. i have turned off media auto download in whatsapp, which means if i think i need that image or video, i click and it downloads
>.1 comment, not related to security is forwards, please do not forward any message/content, unless you are sure of its authenticity, nowadays, its very easy to make a quick search and multiple fake buster sites will help you to find it out
make sure to keep group and that person also aware of same thing.
> do not spread rumors, or gov/army related sensetive stuff on social media (even if you know they are true), if gov wants you to know it they will share.

Saturday, February 09, 2019

इसा मसीह !!!!





Source: From Quora

ऐसे कौनसी इतिहासिक तसवीरें हैं जो किसी ने नहीं देखीं?



ताजमहल का आकाशीय दृश्य......

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Indian National Army and Veer Subhash Chandra Bose


Below are some of memorabilia in the name of this great leader and India's freedom Fighter Subhash Chandra Bose