Butootah

Posted on: October 07, 2016

It’s rare that I would want to travel Rajasthan. Until last November, in 2015, it never occurred to me that it could be a region in incredible India worth exploring. Well like any state it cannot be explored in one visit. So, last month (September 2016) I found myself on a second trip to Rajasthan, though a weekend getaway, this time it was Alwar, 250 km (approx.) from Delhli.

Day 1

1. 6 hours’ drive and a timeless cenotaph: Drive from Delhi to Alwar shall not take more than 4 hours, given that you take the turn at Biwadi. You are advised to start by not later than 1200 noon. You may reach Moosi Maharani ki chatri, a timeless cenotaph sheltered by Aravali hills, by 1600 hours.

After spending an hour or two at the cenotaph, start for Siliserh. Reach the lake palace between 1800 and 1900 hours so you may be able to enjoy the evening at the immaculate Siliserh lake.

2. City Lake Palace, Siliserh: Make sure you have booked your lodge in advance as this is a small private property, though it has few visitors. The place is not much a famous tourist destination, except for the locals who come here to celebrate family day-picnics.

butootah recommends visiting the destination under full moon.

You can also book Hotel Sariska Inn, comparatively cheaper; however, you will miss the lake view and the dinner at the deck beside the sparkling water to mesmerise you.

3. A Lakeside Dinner under Full Moon: Get your dinner served at the palace deck. The government has put little efforts to work around the lake, so the nights are best enjoyed under full moon. Make sure you get a decent sleep and save energy for next day’s adventures.

Day 2

1. Morning at Garwa waterfall and a canyon trek: Start early morning around 0700 hours to take morning bath at the Garwa waterfall when there is little or no crowd. After enjoying the water, trek the canyon above the fall. Go to the hill top at the source of the fall, the spring! And there is a temple there for those who are a little religious.

It is Garwa waterfall that sums up into Siliserh lake. This nature's marvel explains best that little efforts can lead to major achievements.

2. Checkout and return: Return to the hotel in time so you have time to freshen and checking out by 1200 hours.

3. Brunch at the Diner by the Entrance of Lake Palace: A small diner run by a local family serves all that you can ask for in an Indian brunch. Paranthas, pakodas, omelette and what not. butootah recommends bread pakodas and chutney.

4. Reaching back to Delhi by the Evening: If you hit the road by 1300 hours, you shall reach Delhi by 1800 hours to 2000 hours (depending on the traffic).

5. Sariska National Park/Tiger Reserve: If you can extend your trip in the land of Aravali hills to another day, Sariska National Park offers a decent jungle safari. If you are lucky, you might spot the tiger. You can book the hotel for the second night after the safari and plan your return the next day.

You can leave your queries to butootah if you are planning your weekend getaway to Siliserh in the comments section.