Places to See in Potsdam: Potsdam in a day on Bicycle

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Little did I know about Potsdam in three months while staying in Berlin. Situated just 25 mins away from Berlin, Potsdam boasts its architectural beauty. Below is the list of places that I covered in a single day on a bicycle in Potsdam.

I and Shayan took an S-Bahn from Charlottenburg to Potsdam and Got down there. Then, we decided that we would rent a bike (Europeans often call the bicycle a ‘bike’) and explore the whole of the Potsdam in it.  Once, we got down at the railway station or Hauptbahnhof, we rented a bike for 10 Euro per day to explore the city of Potsdam on a bicycle.

I don’t remember it clearly but I think we were asked to submit our passport as a security deposit. The Bike guy also gave a cycling tour map of Potsdam which we were supposed to follow. Below is the list of places to see in Potsdam which we covered in a single day on a bicycle.

Sanssouci palace:

Sanssouci palace is a world heritage site because of its marvelous structure. Sanssouci was the former summer palace of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, in Potsdam, near Berlin. Sanssouci palace has a very interesting architecture and structure. More about Sanssouci palace can be read here.

There are around ten rooms in the Sanssouci palace which include bedroom, entrance hall, marble room, dining room, study room, library, gallery, guest room etc.

Also read: Berlin Attractions: What to see in Berlin? Top 25 Must See Places

sanssouci-palace-2

sanssouci-palace

Sanssouci-palace

Sanssouci park and Vineyard:

Sanssouci park is actually a very large park within many other places to see in Potsdam are located like the New palace, Sanssouci Palace,  Sanssouci vineyard, Chinese house, dragon house, Roman baths, marble palace etc.

One of the most amazing places to see in Potsdam is the Sanssouci vineyard. There is a big garden type vineyard just in front of the Sanssouci palace on the terraces.

There are water pools, flower lawns, flower beds, hedges, and trees. It is said that in the hedge quarter, 3,000 fruit trees were planted. There was also a greenhouse which had numerous nurseries contained oranges, melons, peaches, and bananas. The goddesses Flora and Pomona, who decorate the entrance obelisk at the eastern park exit, were placed there to highlight the connection of a flower, fruit and vegetable garden.

flower-beds-sonssouci-park

flower-beds-sans Souci-park

goddess-of-flora-sanssouci

goddess-of-flora-Sanssouci

sanssouci-vineyard

Sanssouci-vineyard

sanssouci-park-green-house

Sanssouci-park-greenhouse

New Palace, Potsdam:

The list of places to see in Potsdam is incomplete without the New Palace, Potsdam. Situated on the western side of the Sanssouci park, the New palace boasts its beautiful architecture. It was badly destroyed during the second world war, you can still see the remains outside in the palace premises.

in-front-of-the-new-castle-potsdam

in-front-of-the-new-castle-Potsdam

new-palace-potsdam

new-palace-Potsdam

Charlottenhof Palace, Potsdam:

Charlottenhof Palace is situated deep inside the park.  Not so much magnificent but this is known for the place it was built on. Charlottenhof Palace was built on marshy land and lies deep inside the park.

Also Read: History & fall of Berlin wall: World war facts & Division of Germany

Orangery Palace, Potsdam:

Orangery palace is situated at the peripheral of the Sanssouci park. There is a lift using which you can go up. From the top, there is a very nice view of the entire Sanssouci park. It is another a must places to see in Potsdam.

sonssouci-park-view-from-orangery-palace

Sanssouci-park-view-from-orangery-palace

Chinese House, Potsdam:

Chinese House, Potsdam is small yet one of the most beautiful places to see in Potsdam. It is located deep inside but it has one of the most beautiful architectures. The Chinese house was made to adorn the beauty of the flowers and vegetables grown in the Sanssouci park.

chinese-house-sonssouci-park

chinese-house-sonssouci-park

Historic Mill of Sanssouci:

I still remember this mill when I was cycling on the roads of Potsdam. I was touched and fascinated by this windmill. Though I could not go inside the windmill, but all the time, while riding my bike, I was mesmerized by the beauty of this place.

wind-mill-potsdam

wind-mill-Potsdam

Babelsberg park:

If you think that the Sanssouci park houses most of the places to see in Potsdam then that was only half of the story! If you enjoyed the medieval architecture and royal stories of the king then Babelsberg park would take you away from the history towards deep into Nature.

Babelsberg park is a really big park. Such big park that often while cycling, we felt lost in this park, can you imagine? Sometimes, we felt lonely seeing no other people around. Many local people come here to spend a leisure time in this park. Babelsberg park, just like, Sanssouci park, houses other places to see in Potsdam.

Also Read: Berlin Ringbahn metro train: See the city on ride

It borders Tiefer See or Tiefer lake and River Havel while covering an area of 114 hectares. Now you can imagine why we felt lost.

1-babelsberg-park-cycling-road

1-babelsberg-park-cycling-road

babelsberg-park-lake

Babelsberg-park-lake

Steam-powered pump house, Babelsberg:

This pump is situated in one of the corners of the Babelsberg park. A very few tourist reach to this corner of the park. Because of less people, it is not so crowded and you can spend a lot of time sitting beside the pump house there.

steamhouse-babelsberg-park

steamhouse-babelsberg-park

Potsdam place to see: More pictures:

 Cycling in Potsdam video:

Places to See in Poznan: Poznan in 24 Hours

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Poznan, an important polish cultural & business hub is situated at a distance of around 275 Km from Berlin. There is a lot of historical & culturally rich places to see in Poznan. Here are the places to see in Poznan in one day and my traveling experience to Poznan from Berlin.

Why Poznan?

Why I chose Poznan as my next tourist destination from Berlin? First thing, I was very much excited in the history of the second world war. Secondly, I also wanted to experience the Eastern European culture. Although I had decided to go to Warsaw first then, I changed my plan and thought of going to Poznan instead.

How to reach Poznan from Berlin?

I would not suggest going by train from Berlin to Poznan instead you should take a bus. They are faster to the train and you reach early as well. There are a lot of buses available from Berlin to Poznan. Forget not to take the student discount, if you are eligible.
Now here are the places that were on my list to see in Poznan.

Stary Rynek, Old town square – Poznan

1-sunset-lights-on-in-poznan-old-town-square

1-sunset-lights-on-in-poznan-old-town-square

Stary Rynek should be on the first position on the list of places to see in Poznan. I must admit that this is a marvelously built place where you can still feel the existence of medieval Europe, second world war and the modern Europe at the same time.

Cafes and bars lined up in the old town square, the second world war museum, the town hall & the church together resemble the history from the medieval time to the modern time.

Stary Rynek is said to have one of the largest old town squares in Europe. It is almost square in shape surrounded by hotels and lined up with cafes and bars. If you are planning to visit Poznan then you must stay near this place so that you can enjoy the nightlife. Just after the sunset, check in any of the cafes, sit and watch the world go by.

a-couple-strolling-in-old-town-square-of-poznan

a-couple-strolling-in-old-town-square-of-poznan

Beautiful Polish ladies, Sun setting over the church, Polish police, nice vodka, tourists flocking in, fire glasses and sitting wrapped in a blanket in open cafes under the temporary roof of the cafes will just make your day. Also, forget not to try different types of cocktails made with Vodka there.

I had visited all the places to see in Poznan during the day and evening, I just loved relaxing in the old town square with a glass of beer in my hand and watching football being played on the TV in cafes. On both of the days of my visit to Poznan, I had just made sure I had my evening saved for the old town square and then the party.

Within a walking distance, there are many places to see in Poznan old town square.

Poznan Townhall:

Built in the 13-14th century, Poznan town hall reflects the grandeur of the medieval Europe located perfectly in the center of the old town square in the 21st century. There is an entry fee there and more than that, it has a lot to offer to see.

It’s beautiful ceiling, royal hall, court room, entrance hall all tells the tales of how magnificent this building must have been in the medieval times.

The Second world war Museum: The Rising Museum

To me, one of the most interesting parts was the visit to the second world war museum or the Rising Museum in Poznan. It is an underground Museum which looks more like an arsenal.

https://trekkerpedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A-Second-world-war-Motorbike-in-rising-museum-Poznan.jpg

https://trekkerpedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/A-Second-world-war-Motorbike-in-rising-museum-Poznan.jpg

It has weaponry from the second world war like old motorcycle, machine gun, radio & transmitter, type writer, canon balls, gas mask, fuel cans etc. Moreover, they also keep on playing a war music in the background which would almost make you feel like you were transported back into the second world war.

Just before entering, you will also be greeted by the guards who would be dressed in the second world war outfits which you give you the feel and set your mood right for the things coming ahead.

bombs-from-second-world-war-in-poznan-museum-near-old-town-square

bombs-from-second-world-war-in-Poznan-museum-near-old-town-square

Short Scary yet Interesting Video of Inside the Rising Museum in Poznan simulating the second world war:

Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island)

Ostrów Tumski is also called as the Cathedral  island because of the cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a church.  This place is in fact almost like an island as its name suggests because unlike most of the places to see in Poznan, this is located on the corner of the city.

Ostrow Tumski is located on the other side of river Oder. This island was supposed to be inhabited by the people who were somehow related to the church. So it housed priests, monks, bishops etc.

on-the-way-to-ostrow-tumsky-in-poznan

on-the-way-to-ostrow-tumsky-in-poznan

The church of cathedral of St. John the Baptist was destroyed in the second world war and when I visited this place, it was still being erected. You can spend some time there.

However, I would also suggest you spend some time by the river Oder there. It would not be so crowded. It’s a soothing and relaxing place to visit.

Stary Browar – The Old Brewery, Poznan

Once used to be a brewery, the Stary Browar is now a Shopping, Arts and Business Center. It is a shopping mall with many shops and restaurants. To preserve its architecture, it has been converted into a shopping complex now. It is another one of the places to see in Poznan.

stary-browar-poznan

stary-browar-poznan

Adam Mickiewicz University

This was the first place we saw when we reached Poznan. I would consider myself lucky because I guess convocation of the students was going on and that was a fun to watch. Students were lined up in black gowns and the University was decorated nicely.

It was nice to interact with the students although English was a small barrier in our conversation but overall, it was really a fun.

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adam-mickiewicz-university

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a-white-car-center-of-attraction-in-old-town-square-of-poznan

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cafes-lined-up-in-old-town-square-of-poznan

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guards-dressed-as-second-world-war-soldiers-in-rising-museum-poznan

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heater-in-one-of-the-cafes-in-old-town-square-of-poznan

old-town-square-of-poznan

old-town-square-of-poznan

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poznan-empty-streets

poznan-town-roads

poznan-town-roads

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river-oder-in-poznan

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second-world-war-artifacts-in-rising-museum-in-poznan

sunset-in-old-town-square-of-poznan

sunset-in-old-town-square-of-poznan


A visit to Nuremberg Castle: Opening hours, Entry fee & Photos and Congress Hall

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Nuremberg Castle is one of the most beautiful places to see in Germany especially if you are in the south of Germany, also known as the Bavaria.

Nuremberg Castle History:

The Nuremberg castle has been one of the most important imperial castles of the Holy Roman Empire since the medieval times. During the middle ages, the Roman emperors would travel a lot. So for their comfortable stay at most of the famous places which were a part of the holy roman empire, they made castles called “imperial castles”.

One of those famous imperial castles was Nuremberg castle. Nuremberg castle still houses the imperial artifacts and weapons. Once can still see things like the imperial stick, imperial throne, weapons including swords, cannon balls, different kind of rifles and pistols. These are all housed inside the castle, the most part of which has turned into a museum.

The whole of the Nuremberg town in the middle ages used to have a fort wall surrounding the city. There used to be towers also along the fort walls also known as fortified city walls. You can still see the walls around the city.

Google map view of fort wall around Nuremberg

Google map view of fort wall around Nuremberg

Nuremberg castle facts:

  • Nuremberg Castle was built up of sandstone. The underground rock cellars were used for centuries for fermenting and storing beer.
  • All the Holy Roman Emperors stayed at Kaiserburg Castle for a short period at least between 1050 and 1571.
  • Excavations on the site have uncovered remains of fortifications dating back to before 1000 BC.

Nuremberg castle parts

Castle courtyard

Castle courtyard is the front yard that you see on the entrance. There is a nice aerial view of the city from here as well.

Deep well and Sinwell tower

The Deep well is famous because during the middle ages deep well was the main source of water for the imperial castle. You can also climb using a staircase inside the sinwell tower and from there you get a very nice view of the whole of the Nuremberg town.

Imperial gardens

There are two imperial gardens called castle gardens and Maria Sibylla Merian Garden as a part of the Nuremberg castle premises.

Nuremberg castle timing

Like most of the visiting places in Europe, Nuremberg castle has its own timing as well. Here are the details:

  • Nuremberg castle timings from April – September: Daily 9 am – 4 pm
  • Nuremberg castle timings from October – March: Daily 10 am – 4 pm

However, the castle is closed for visiting during Christmas and new year timing. Also, the outside area like two gardens called castle gardens and Maria Sibylla Merian Garden have different timings. Here are the timings of the Nuremberg garden castles:

  • Nuremberg Castle Gardens timings from April – October: 8 am at the earliest until 8 pm
  • November – March: closed
  • Maria Sibylla Merian Garden timings from April – October: Sundays and Mondays from 2 pm – 6 pm
  • November – March: closed

Nuremberg castle entry fee

There are different entry fees for the different parts of the castle as mentioned in one of the paragraphs above. Based on these areas, here are different entry fees for the Nuremberg castle parts:

  • Joined ticket (Palas with Double Chapel, Kaiserburg museum, deep well and Sinwell tower): 7 € / reduced 6 €
  • Demonstration of the well and panorama from the Sinwell Tower: 3,50 € / reduced 2,50 €
  • Palas with Double Chapel/ Kaiserburg Museum: 5.50 € / reduced 4,50 €
  • Castle Gardens and maria Sibylla Merian Garden: admission free

More and up to date information about the entry fee can be found on the official site here.

Nuremberg castle photos

deep well and sinwell tower from nuremberg castle side

deep well and sinwell tower from nuremberg castle side

guns inside nuremberg castle

guns inside nuremberg castle

imperial cup inside nuremberg castle museum

imperial cup inside nuremberg castle museum

inside sinwell tower

inside sinwell tower

Nuremberg aerial view from Nuremberg castle

Nuremberg aerial view from Nuremberg castle

Nuremberg panorama on copper plate from nuremberg castle

Nuremberg panorama on copper plate from nuremberg castle

Nuremberg streets

Nuremberg streets

Nuremberg had always been a source of fascination for me because of two reasons. One, it was the hometown of one of my closest German friends, Sam and second, being a part of the Roman holy empire, Nuremberg is one of the most beautiful towns in the Bavaria region, or south of Germany.

Is Nuremberg really a rich city? And second world war

After visiting the Nuremberg castle and the congress hall, Nuremberg where Hitler came into the power after the famous rally of Nuremberg, I asked Sam that I was interested in visiting around the market street of Nuremberg.

As I have also mentioned in the previous blogs of mine that most of the European cities will have an old town square, so did Nuremberg as well. However, opposite to what I was expecting, the old town square of Nuremberg was very happening with a lot of shops displaying branded products.

I always thought the Bavarian region to be very mystical to me because I assumed the culture and people from this region to be mystical as well. In a sense, very silent, reserved and having a symmetry with the history, however, that was not the case. The truth is most of the famous German cities like Frankfurt, Munich or Nuremberg are located in the South of Germany. People often speculate that the southern part of Germany is much richer when compared to the other parts of Germany.

Some attribute this fact to the second world war. Hitler operated from the south of Germany and that’s how all the financial resources were shifted to the south of Germany. But anyways.

Nuremberg Market streets & history:

The opulence of affluent Nuremberg can be seen in the market streets. Trust me, there were so many branded shops and showrooms were there which sell high-end products. Coming from Berlin, I had never expected that. But somehow, I had to believe that. On the cultural front, Nuremberg has a lot of scope in the historical places but unfortunately, most of them remind us of the second world war and Hitler. That’s why the places have been ignored and they should be ignored.

The river Pegnitz crosses through the middle of the town and a walk along the river or inside the town would surely make you see this river. Ducks and birds swimming in the river. It is the same river which also crossed Bamberg which is also called as the Venice of Germany. There are nice restaurants along the river where you can sit and relax and have dinner. There are a lot of churches as well in this city as Nuremberg was once a part of the Holy Roman Empire.

Nuremberg Market & street pictures:

Nuremberg town hall and river pegnitz

Nuremberg town hall and river pegnitz

Nuremberg old town square

Nuremberg old town square

Nuremberg old town square fun

Nuremberg old town square fun

Nuremberg became famous in the modern era history because of the second world war and being the vantage point of Hitler. Nuremberg is known for Nuremberg trial, Nuremberg rally, congress hall etc.

Nuremberg, Hiter, and Second world war

Nuremberg was a significant city during the times of the second world war because of being the Hitler’s favorite city for planning. Also because of the city’s relevance to the Holy Roman Empire and its position in the centre of Germany, the Nazi Party chose the city to be the site of huge Nazi Party conventions – the Nuremberg rallies.

From Nuremberg rally in 1933, Hitler rose to power from here. The Nuremberg rallies became huge Nazi propaganda events, a centre of Nazi ideals. Nazi propaganda included modernization of Germany, urbanization, industrialization but there was a huge conspiracy behind it.

Congress hall:

Nuremberg, being the hometown of my friend, Sam, we decided to go and take a look at the place. Trust me, the whole building was deserted and there were no tourists there. We really felt lonely. The congress hall in Nuremberg is a grand structure but people in Germany hate Hitler so much that it has been left just like that and no one likes to go and see that place. Although architecture wise this building is a grand building.

After the second world war, many people wanted to destroy the congress hall but it was preserved because of its architecture. Later, some proposals were proposed to turn congress hall into sports complex or a stadium but that was rejected. Today, congress hall just lie deserted and no one really likes to visit.

Congress hall pictures, Nuremberg:

Sam at congress hall in nuremberg

Sam at congress hall in nuremberg

congress hall, nuremberg

congress hall, nuremberg

congress hall in Nuremberg from inside

congress hall in Nuremberg from inside

almost no tourist at congress hall nuremberg

almost no tourist at congress hall nuremberg

Badami Travel Guide: Cave temples & Places to see

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Badami, situated at a distance of around 500 Km from Bangalore, Badami is famous for cave temples, rock cut sculptures & red sandstone structures around Agastya lake.

Badami History:

Badami has its history rooted to Ved and Puranas. Badami is also known as Vatapi. Badami is also known as Vatapi because the devil Vatapi was killed by sage Agastya in this area.

Currently, the rock-cut Badami Cave Temples that remain intact were sculpted mostly between the 6th and 8th centuries. There is a total of four cave temples in Badami and each cave temple represents a different religion. Those religions are Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Out of the four cave temple, cave one is devoted to lord Shiva, and Caves 2 and 3 are dedicated to lord Vishnu. The last cave four has some reliefs of Jain Tirthankaras.

Badami Cave temples:

Cave temples in Badami are made up of red sandstone. There are also a lot of pillars with carvings showing the reincarnation of the Hindu Gods.

To reach the cave temples, you will have to drive through the narrow streets of Badami. So, it is advisable to start early for the cave temples as it might get crowded around 9 to 10 AM.

Visiting Badami cave temples take around one to two hours. There are other places of interests near Badami like Aihole, Pattadakkal etc.

Badami Entry fee: 15 / person

There is an entry fee of Rs 15 per person to enter the cave temples. You will have to walk around 20 stairs to reach to the cave temples. This place is usually crowded on the weekends but there is enough space to enjoy there.

Parking near Badami cave temples:

Just at the foot of the Badami cave temples, there is a parking space. The parking space is little smaller compared to the number of visitors who like to visit this place. There is also a vehicle parking fee of Rupees 50 per vehicle. Near the parking, there is a canteen and a bathroom also.

 

In different cave temples, you can see different avatars of God Shiva and Vishnu. There is also a very nice of the Agastya lake from the top. There is a lot to see if you love rock-carvings and you are into photography.

Agastya lake, Badami:

Agastya lake can be clearly seen from the Badami cave temples which are situated at a height. There is also a temple at the end of the lake and there is also a museum on the other side of the lake.

Agastya lake is around 10 minutes of walk from the Badami cave temples. You can take bath in there. But be careful, it is a very deep lake or pond.

Staying in Badami:

We stayed at a hotel named Badami court hotel which is around 1 Km north of the Badami town. We stayed there. They have a swimming pool and very nice service and food as well.

Badami Photos:

Agastya lake as seen from Badami cave temples

Agastya lake as seen from Badami cave temples

Badami cave temples

Badami cave temples

Badami red sandstone and agastya lake

Badami red sandstone and agastya lake

Badami

Badami

Lord vishnu rock carving in Badami

Lord vishnu rock carving in Badami

How Hiking in Germany is different to Hiking in India

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A thought of walking into the woods always excited me and especially, if it’s Germany and amidst the Bavarian forest.
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So, I was there at Sam’s house near Haroldsberg, Nuremberg in south Germany. We spent some time over there.

One day, I asked him to take me to a nearby hiking place so that I can see what hiking in Germany looked like and how was that different to hiking in India.

So, I looked out for some hiking places around Nuremberg and I found one. We drove to that place. And here is how Hiking is different in Germany than India.

Hiking in Germany vs Hiking in India:

Here are some of the hiking differences that I noticed while hiking in Germany:

  • Hiking in Germany is more organized than hiking in India.
  • You get to see the sign boards everywhere and even at the bifurcations so there are chances of getting lost is very minimal.
  • Hiking has a defined area where you can hike. Out of that area, you cannot hike. And hikers respect that demarcation.
  • While on the other hand, there have been a lot of trekking incidents in south India where a lot of mishaps have happened.
  • On the top, you will see benches to sit and enjoy the view.
  • Other hikers greet you and locals do not disturb you unless and until you do not disturb them.
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  • You can drive literally much closer to the hiking spot peak.
  • There will be a parking place as well.
  • Also, there will shops on the top and even the guest houses as well.

Pictures from Small hike near Nuremberg, Germany:

A bench at the hike top Bavarian woods near Nuremberg hike Large agricultural farms near Nuremberg Hiking near Haroldsberg (5) A tractor trail on a hike a village near nuremberg Fallen log in the woods Hiking view while hiking near Nuremberg

Leipzig in One day from Berlin: Monument to the Battle of the Nations & Old Market Square

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Leipzig always attracted me from Berlin. Moreover, I also wanted to visit Leipzig because it has got an attractive name. Being situated not so far from Berlin, I along with one of my friends, decided to take a tour of Leipzig on weekends in a single day.

Leipzig in one day:

The best way to reach Leipzig from Berlin would be to use the regional express trains. There is also a special weekend pass for five people which you can take and use any of the train & bus services throughout Germany. I do not remember much about it but here is a site where you can check about these informations: German rail passes.

So, in short, the pass we had allowed us to use all the trains and bus throughout Germany and that was a kind of relief for us because even if we get off the track, we can use any of the buses or the trains to from one place to another. Anyways.

Regional express trains from Berlin take around 2-3 hours to reach Leipzig. We started early morning so that we could have ample time in our hand. Here are the places that we covered in Leipzig in a day.

Journey to Leipzig from Berlin is very beautiful one. Regional express in Germany are mostly double decker and not so crowded. So, I decided to find a sit on the first floor so that I can have a nice view throughout the journey. There were a lot of tulip or lily farms on the way and they really looked beautiful.

Lily farms on the way from Berlin to Leipzig

Lily farms on the way from Berlin to Leipzig

Leipzig Hauptbahnhof:

Hauptbahnhof is the german translation for the “main railway station” in English. Surely, Leipzig Hauptbahnhof was something which caught my attention the moment I got down there. It looks archaic and you will feel that you have stepped into some roman empire area with long pillars and arches.

Monument to the Battle of the Nations:

Monuments of the battle of nations is a very big monument located on the edge of the city. it’s really magnificent. When you approach this monument, you really feel that you are approaching something really grand. The big architecture, the big pillars these things give you a feeling of having stepped into a Roman time.

So, there is a ticket house just at the entrance, you will have to buy tickets to enter inside the monument. Once stepped inside, there are stairs to go till the top. These stairs are little clumsy and narrow.

You can even take small breaks at the different levels while climbing up the stairs. As approach closer to the top, you will find the view getting more and more beautiful.

Another thing, which caught my attention about the Monuments of the battle of the nations was the interior. The interior is just magnificent. I mean it’s really beautiful and awesome from inside. The interior reminded me of one of the churches which I had visited in the Rome.

So, to reach this monument, you might have to walk a bit from the main road. There is a long water body along which you walk. The walk gives you a feeling of approaching something really great.

Also Read: Traveling Hamburg in One Day: Best Places to See in Hamburg

Monument to battle of nations in Leipzig

Monument to battle of nations in Leipzig

Old market square, Leipzig:

Once we returned from the Monuments of the battle of the nations, we decided to head to the Old market square and explore more places in the town of Leipzig.

We had already explored some of the famous places in Leipzig like Federal Administrative court of Germany and old town hall at the market square.

Federal Administrative court of Germany:

Federal Administrative court of Germany is situated not so far from the old town square of Leipzig. This place is quiet and serene and not so crowded as well. There is a canal flowing in front of the building and you can sit there and relax in the park.

Federal Administrative court of Germany in Leipzig

Federal Administrative court of Germany in Leipzig

The old market square of Leipzig is a very happening place. Just like any other European town, you can enjoy a lot over there. There are many things to try, listen to the street music and street shows etc.

Around the old market square, there are some famous churches of Leipzig also. You can explore them as well. You can sit and have a beer and pizza over there.

It’s really a happening place. You can go shopping, buy ice cream, buy books, buy a souvenir and do a lot of things just to take a taste of the German culture and how an old market square looks like.

In the evening, we caught a train to Berlin and returned happily after exploring Leipzig on feet. Here are some of the pictures from Leipzig.

Also Read: Himmelpfort camping experience with my German friends

Leipzig pictures:

Castle view from the top of monument to battle of nations in leipzig

A Castle view from the top of monument to battle of nations in leipzig

Leipzig city view from monument to battle of nations

Leipzig city view from monument to battle of nations

Monument to battle of nations wall, leipzig

Monument to battle of nations wall, leipzig

Near Federal administrative court of Germany in Leipzig

Near Federal administrative court of Germany in Leipzig

Old market square building in Leipzig

Old market square building in Leipzig

Old town square leipzig

Old town square leipzig

Walk to Monument to battle of nations

Walk to Monument to battle of nations

Traveling Hamburg in One Day: Best Places to See in Hamburg

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Here is a list of beat places to see in Hamburg that you can cover in a single day on your feet. Some of these places include the main town hall,  city center, St. Nikolai church etc. Places to see in Hamburg in one day:

  • Mönckebergstraße (Main shopping street)

To the west of Hamburg Hofbhanhauf lies one of the very famous shopping streets of Hamburg called “Mönckebergstraße”. The moment you get out of the main railway station and step on this street, you can see a lot of branded stores on your left and right.

This street is a shopping street and you just have to walk straight on this road.
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 So, Monckebergstrasse forms the main shopping area of Hamburg. Some of the brands that you can expect on this street are Promod, New Yorker, Nike, Vera Moda, Zara etc. Besides shopping area, this street has a lot of restaurants as well where you can sit and spend some time looking the shoppers crowd and after long shopping hours.

Besides shopping area, this street has a lot of restaurants as well where you can sit and spend some time looking the shoppers crowd and after long shopping hours.

There are some famous archaic and historical buildings on this street as well. If you are into history and knowing about the chronological changes of a place in history.

Mönckebergstraße (Main shopping street) of Hamburg (1) Mönckebergstraße (Main shopping street) of Hamburg (2)

  • Hamburg Rathaus (Hamburg Townhall)

After you walk almost a kilometer on the Mönckebergstraße, you will reach near the Rathaus building of the Hamburg, Rathaus is basically town hall of a city.

Hamburg is said to have one of the most beautiful Rathaus in the Germany. Basically, you will start recognizing the Rathaus from a distance. It has a beautiful church like tall structure in the middle of it. I think that’s a clock tower.

Just in front of the Rathaus, there is a big open and large space. In that open space, you will see a lot of people eating and having fun.

Alsterarkaden

Just beside the big Rathaus area, you will also see a water canal. It’s called Kleine Alster. You will see people eating there, beside the river. And, there are a lot of white arches. That actually forms a very beautiful and romantic and peaceful spot to spend some time.  You can also see the old wall and new wall in that area.

Hamburg Rathaus Timings for Guided Tours:

Monday to Thursday: 10AM-3:15PM
Friday to Sunday:  10AM-1:15PM.
Closed on official events
Languages offered: English, German, French

Hamburg Rathaus Entry fee:

  • Adult: Four Euro
  • Hamburg card holder: Three Euro
  • Free for children under 14 years of age).

Hygieia-Brunnen fountain, Hamburg Rathaus:

Just behind the main Rathaus building, there is another building which is called Hamburg’s House of Commerce (“Börse”). Between these two buildings, lies the famous fountain of the Hamburg Rathaus called Hygieia-Brunnen.

Following the canal to the right and crossing the traditional shopping road, Jungfernstieg, you quickly get to the artificial lake Binnenalster.
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Boat tours take you to the even bigger artificial lake, Außenalster, directly behind the Binnenalster with lots of sailing boats in summer.

Alsterarkaden near the Hamburg Rathhaus

Alsterarkaden near the Hamburg Rathaus

Hamburg Rathaus from front

Hamburg Rathaus from front

Hygieia-Brunnen fountain, Hamburg Rathaus

Hygieia-Brunnen fountain, Hamburg Rathaus

Inside Hamburg Rathaus

Inside Hamburg Rathaus

  • Binnenalster, Jungfernstieg

Situated at a two-minute walk from the Rathaus, Binnenlster is an artificial lake with a fountain in the middle of the lake. Binnenalster is a connected to another bigger artificial lake called Außenalster which is north of Binnenalster. You can go for boating in these lakes. Außenalster is famous for sailing during summer. You can also take a walk around this lake, even sit on the chair and watch the birds playing in the water.

Binnenalster, Jungfernstieg, Hamburg (1) Binnenalster, Jungfernstieg, Hamburg (2) Binnenalster, Jungfernstieg, Hamburg (3) Binnenalster, Jungfernstieg, Hamburg (4)

  • St. Nikolai Church, Hamburg

There are five main churches in the Hamburg and St. Nikolai is one of them. St. Nikolai church is situated almost at the end of the Mönckebergstraße, the main shopping street of Hamburg. This church, like other main structures in Germany, was also destroyed during the second world war. But they were restored also.

St. Nikolai front view, Hamburg

St. Nikolai front view, Hamburg

St. Nikolai side view, Hamburg

St. Nikolai side view, Hamburg

St. Nikolai under reconsturction

St. Nikolai under reconsturction

  • Hamburg Harbour area and Speicherstadt

Hamburg forms one of the biggest harbours in Europe and largest in the Germany which makes Hamburg a must see places in Germany due to harbours.

I have already written about Hamburg harbours before. Another fascinating thing which caught my attention was the Speicherstadt. Speicherstadt translates to the warehouses. And these warehouses make Hamburg in Germany the largest warehouse district in the world.

I would recommend you to read about these warehouses as they have a lot of interesting facts around themselves. Read more about warehouses in Hamburg.

Speicherstadt and hamburg harbour areas (1) Speicherstadt and hamburg harbour areas (2) Speicherstadt and hamburg harbour areas (3) Speicherstadt and hamburg harbour areas (4)

  • St. Michael church, Hamburg

Near the Hamburg Harbour and towards the west beyond the St. Nikolai church, lies the St. Michael church. The visiting fee for St. Michael church is very minimal but it worths a visit because of the view it offers.

There is an elevator that takes you to almost more than a hundred feet above the ground level at the top of the church. And trust me, from there you get an awesome view of the entire Hamburg from Hamburg harbour to even people sailing in the Außenalster lake.

Since this church is located nearer to the Hamburg harbour, the view will be simply awesome from the top of this church.

Außenalster lake view from At. Michael church, Hamburg Hamburg city view from the top of the St. Michael church, Hamburg Hamburg Harbour view from the top of the St. Michael's church Inside St. Michael's church in Hamburg

A Visit to the Royal Palace, Buda Castle, Budapest

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After Visiting Vienna, Budapest was next on our tour list. We had taken a bus from Vienna to Budapest. Since the exchange rate in Hungry is lower when compared to the other European countries, we found Budapest much cheaper than other cities and we decided to spend more time there. A visit to the Royal Palace inside Buda castle was first on our to do list.
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 I am personally always fascinated by the history, architecture, palace, castle etc and as a Non-European, its even more fascinating for me.

Reaching Royal Palace, Buda Castle:

Buda Castle is situated on a small hillock. There are many attractions inside the palace, but all are not free. There are many ways to reach the Royal palace at Buda castle. We enquired around and found that one can either walk up the hill or take bus no.16 from across the chain bridge on Buda side or use the tourist funicular (kind of an elevator train). That was the first time when we came to know that Budapest is actually a combination of Buda and Pest which are two different cities divided by river Danube. So the Buda castle was on the Buda side of Budapest across the chain bridge.

Buda Castle Budapest Tourist funicular

Buda Castle Budapest Tourist funicular

The Bus ride from Chain bridge was through the narrow streets of Budapest. It just took around 5-10 minutes for a bus to drop us at the Buda castle main gate. Once you get down at the main gate of the Buda castle, you are greeted by a lot of stone sculptures and magnificent architecture of the palace.

Entrance to the Royal Palace, Buda Castle:

Royal palace at the Buda castle welcomes you with a grandeur of the statutes of the king from the medieval era doing hunting. You also see the big pillars and a large entrance of the door which is very beautiful. You can also see the green dome of the royal palace from outside as you enter.

Buda castle before entering

Buda Castle before entering

Lion’s Courtyard, Buda Castle:

Lion’s courtyard got its name from the four stone lions that guard its gate. You can see in the picture below a stone lion sitting near the entrance and guarding it. Lion’s courtyard comes just after you enter the castle. Lion’s courtyard is in the center of the building complex. These buildings complex have the Hungarian National Museum, the Budapest Museum of History and the National Széchenyi Library.

Lion's courtyard Buda castle

Lion’s courtyard Buda castle

National Gallery:

Royal palace building complex is now turned into national museum and library. But you will have to pay the entrance fee to visit the national gallery. National gallery and museum consists show mostly the Hungarian culture and how Budapest evolved over the time.

Buda Castle national gallery

Buda Castle national gallery

Savoyai Terrace, Buda castle:

Savoyai terrace is one of the most beautiful parts of the Buda Castle. The Savoyai Terrace boasts the best views of the city along the river Danube. Standing at the Savoyai terrace square one can see most of the famous monuments of Budapest like Hungranin parliament, the Gellért Hill, Chain bridge, the Monument of Liberty etc. The Terrace is in front of the Hungarian National Museum.

Buda Castle Savoyai terrace

Buda Castle Savoyai terrace

Danube river view from the Savoyai terrace, Buda castle

Danube river view from the Savoyai terrace, Buda castle

Medieval wall of the buda castle in the picture

Medieval wall of the Buda Castle in the picture

Also read: Where to have dinner in Budapest to get the perfect night view of the Buda castle

I took us around five to six hours to visit the whole palace and its premises. You can also spend an entire day visiting the royal palace and other parts of the Buda castle.
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 Finally before coming down, we took a stop at the restaurant near the Savoyai terrace. We decided to walk down to the chain bridge from the Buda castle. Steps take you down to the main road in front of the Chain bridge.

Buda castle steps

Buda castle steps in the BG

Dining Experience in Budapest under Buda castle night view

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It was a cold evening. I and Shayan after a day long walk around Budapest city felt tired. We were looking for a place to relax and spend some peaceful time while enjoying the beautiful evening in Budapest. Halo lights at Buda castle were turned on. The greenish water of the Danube river reflected the sunset sky in its flowing water. We had crossed the river from Buda side to Pest side of the city. For those who do not know, Budapest is a combination of two cities: Buda and Pest. Buda side of the city is situated to the west of the city and Pest to the East.

We had walked down from the Buda castle and crossed the iconic Chain bridge across the Danube river to the pest side. The evening was spreading her dark shawl over the city. We took a right turn after crossing the chain bridge and crossed a station called ‘Eötvös tér’. It’s a small railway station where tram shows up. We walked little further towards the North and there were a series of restaurants. The name of that street is ‘Belgrad Rakpart’. On this street, After the intercontinental hotel, there is a series of restaurants offering the view of the Buda castle across the Danube river. If you want to know the exact location of the area, here is on the google map:


Restaurants in Budapest Offering nice View of Buda Castle

The Ambience at the restaurant was very peaceful. They lit candles and dim lights all around the restaurants. Ships will be standing at the ferry point in the Danube river. However, they do not obstruct the view of the Buda Castle. Some street musicians will keep on playing very nice music to ears. We had ordered pizza for ourselves.

Yes! the food they serve is very nice. You can also book your dining on the ship tour. However, that will be little costlier I guess. So we stuck to eating there. Every restaurant has a menu card displayed at the street. So we didn’t find it difficult to choose the price according to our budget. However, the exchange rate at Budapest is much lower than Euros so it was not much difficult for us to have a nice luxury dining.

Here are some of the pictures of the Buda Castle in the night taken from the restaurants across the river:

Buda castle at night

Chain bridge, Budapest at nightChain bridge, Budapest at night

Dining in Budapest

Chain bridge at night in Budapest

BabaBudangiri, Chikmagalur: History, Treks & Map from Bangalore

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near Bababudangiri trekAbout:

Altitude: 5905 feet
Distance from Chikmagalur: 35 kms
Distance from Bangalore: 275 Kms
Distance from Mullayangiri peak: 25 Kms
Best time to Visit: September to March (Check for the rainy days sometimes)
Average Temperature (September to March): 22-32 degree celsius

A villege in chikmagalur

History:

Bababudangiri shrine/ dargah is named after the Sufi saint Baba Budan (also known as Guru Dattatreya). Guru Dattatreya/ Baba Budan is equally revered by both Muslims as well as Hindus. That’s why sometime you would find bababudangiri being called as bababudangiri temple and sometimes as bababudangiri dargah.

Foggy morning western Ghats

Chikmagalur, origin of coffee and Baba Budan:

Chikmagalur, being a famous state for coffee, links its origin of coffee to Baba Budan. Although around the shrine there are no coffee plantations. The nearest ones being nearer to the Jhari falls (alomst 7-8 kms far). So, it is believed that the Baba Budan brought coffee to India for Dattatreya, an incarnation of Shiva (or of Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu). However, in modern history, a controversary has feud up recently because of the status over the shrine.

Legend says that Dada Hayath, who was a direct disciple of the Prophet, came to India in 11th century from Saudis to spread the message of Islam and peace. He was a Sufi and in the true spirit of Sufism, there was only one God for him and the whole world had only one religion. To develop a universal religion, he equally valued the lord Shiva, Vishnu and Sufi culture. Since localites were being oppressed by the landlords. This way, he found a way to unite people and fight against the oppression.

trail from Mullayanagiri towards Bababudangiri

Divided by religion and unified by humanity, people of different religion rever the Saint in their styles. Hindus believe the Baba to be an incarnation of Dattatreya (Lord Shiva) while Sufis consider him as a formless God. If we combine the both faith, the similarities lies in the fact that the, though people rever him in different way, still both of the community believe in formless incarnation of the God.

For more stories click here (Story one) & (Story two)

How to reach?

There are two ways to reach to the BabaBudangiri:
1. By road
2. By trek (Click here to know the trekking details from Mullayanagiri to BabaBudangiri)

1. By road to BabaBudangiri from Bangalore via Chikmagalur:

Roads, beauty and landscapes on the way to BabaBudangiri:

Road to BabaBudangiri becomes very scenic after chikmagalur. The Journey of next 35 Kms passes through coffee estates plantations, Nilgiris hills, serpantine Western Ghats roads, valleys and later you can see the vast plain grasslands overlooking the hills. In the monsoon, the hills wear bridal green and the parched dry water points gets filled with the rain water and turns into a small pond. You would see these ponds all throughout the way. Moreover, you can witness seasonal western Ghats wils flowers on the hills.

On the way to bababudangiri

Places to See around:

1. ManikhyaDhara waterfalls
2. Jhari waterfalls
3. Mullayanagiri peak: the Highest peak of Karnataka.
4. Caves near the Dargah

Jhari waterfalls, near mullayanagiri BababudangiriJhari waterfalls

Mullayanagiri templeNear Mullayanagiri top peak Shiva Temple

Mullayanagiri to Bababudangiri trekOn the trek way to BabaBudangiri from Mullayanagiri

BSNL tower near BababudangiriThe BSNL Tower placed at the high altitude near BabaBudangiri

Near bababudangiriLandscapes, on the way to Bababudangiri

near Manikhyadhara waterfallsShops near Manikhyadhara waterfalls

Nilgiris near bababudangiriLandscapes near Bababudangiri

While returning from Bababudangirigrasslands/ Moorlands landscapes pictures near Bababudangiri