My visit to the Kedarnath Temple

केदारनाथ- A Mystery Pilgrimage

 Every year, during summer tourists from all over the world visit this holy destination of Kedarnath in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand to get the blessings of almighty Lord Shiva. A Kedarnath pilgrimage is incomplete without a visit to the 1000-year-old Kedarnath Temple, which was built using large slabs of stone on a 6-foot-high rectangular base. 

This old and glorious temple is in the Rudra Himalayan range on the banks of the River Mandakini. This thousand year old temple was built using massive stone blocks over a large quadrangular podium. Climbing through the large steps that lead to the holy sanctum you will find Pali inscriptions on the stairs. The walls of the temple’s sanctum are decorated with figures of various divinities and sections from mythology. Outside the temple door, a large statue of the Nandi stands guard.

We took the helicopter to Kedarnath and I think it was a smart decision because we were not worn out and did not have aching body parts when we went for the evening Aarti. That experience left me mesmerized because I did not experience something like this before.....it was like looking and listening to a musical play/opera dedicated to Kedarnath Ji !

Participating in the Maha Abhishekam at 4 am is very much recommended if one can afford the cost of 6,600 IRS.It was tough waking up at 3 am in a room with no heat, and no hot water but, I forgot it all as soon as I got to the temple. We were allowed in the inner sanctum of the temple and actively participated in the Abhishekam...I did not travel thousands of miles to only get a second glance of the Shiv Ling but, was able to touch and prostrate many times! ( I would have been okay with even a glance for a second because there is other place like this on earth....except Mount Kailash and Badrinath!! 

We spent the night in Kedarnath and I would recommend staying at the temple Guest Houses because the place is very well maintained and also there are electric heaters.

7 famous food places you must try at the local Delhi Markets

THE फूडी GUIDE

If you're a foodie, and have moved to Delhi, you have done well for yourself. From the best street food to fine dining restaurants, the capital city has it all.

Here is a list of 7 famous food places in Delhi for all you foodies out there. This should make your search for some delicious grub easier as you navigate your way through this massive city. 

 1. Old Delhi

• Fun Fact : All your favourite chat items, from Papri Chaat and Dahi Bhalla to Jalebi, originated in Old Delhi.  

• Old Delhi is a popular hub for street food, authentic Mughlai cuisine, and sweets. If you really want an authentic experience with typical north Indian street food, Old Delhi is a must-visit.
• Some of our recommendations are Khemchand Adesh Kumar’s Daulat Ki Chaat, Lotan Chole Wala, Jung Bahadur Kachori Wala, and Shree Balaji Chaat Bhandar and Bishan Swaroop for the best chaat you will ever have.

2. Gali Paranthe Wali

Paranthe, served with a dollop of butter

If there’s one place you’ve got to visit, particularly if you’re vegetarian, it’s Paranthe Wali Galli. Several tiny shops serving delicious paranthe, fresh, hot and in a variety of styles. In existence for over 50 years, some of the original shops are still operating.Several celebrities and influential politicians and businessmen also visit this place, which is crowded through the evening and into the night.

3. Jama Masjid

Street food at Jama Masjid 

Food in Delhi is incomplete without a visit to this area. If you eat meat and love street food, Jama Masjid area is the place to be! Jama Masjid and the lane opposite, Bazaar Matia Mahal, have some of the best non-vegetarian street food in Delhi. From keema samosas to grilled boti to kebabs and jalebi, this area is a paradise for foodies.

4. South Campus

Cafe at South Campus 

If you are a college student or just someone on a tight budget, in search of some delicious food, South Campus is a great option, with a variety of awesome cafes. The cafes here mostly serve shakes, fast food, American and Italian cuisines. My favourites are Scooter on the Wall, Big Yellow Door, and QD’s. Check out one of these joints for some fantastic food.

5. New Friends Colony

Food at Lotus Pond Restaurant, New Friends Colony 

New Friends Colony has some great eateries that serve delicious North and South Indian cuisine. From yummy shawarmas to dosas to cafes and fast food, this area has always been popular with foodies. I recommend trying Sab Ki Khatir, Tunday Kababi (for great Lucknowi food in Delhi), Pebble Street, and Al Bake.

6. Connaught Place

Delicious Burgers at Connaught Place 

Connaught Place is the place in Delhi for food – no matter what your budget is. From fancy fine-dining restaurants to the delicious local rajma chawal, Connaught Place has food for everyone’s budget. With the best restaurants in the city, Connaught Place is an area that has all kinds of cuisine – local and international. Some joints you definitely should try out are Kake Da Hotel, Parikrama, Jain Chawal Wale, and Minar.

7. Netaji Subhash Place

Milkshakes at NSP 

Netaji Subhash Place is famous for its delicious milkshakes. Apart from that, this area has the perfect mix of street food, fast food, and fine dining restaurants. My favourites in this area are BTW (for awesome chaat), Billu’s Hut, Sura Ve, Barbeque Nation, and Eleven Course.

That brings me to the end of my list of Delhi’s famous food items. I hope this was helpful, and I guarantee that a visit to these places will be a wonderful culinary experience for the foodie in you!