Hello, I’m Ragz
A whole new world awaits those who are willing to take those first steps. There is no better way to open your mind and expand your horizon than to get out there and explore the varied experiences the world has to offer.
-
Mesmerizing Malaysia 🇲🇾✨
Malaysia is located in the heart of Southeast Asia, sharing land borders with Thailand, Indonesia, and Brunei. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including tropical rainforests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities.
River of Life, Malaysia Embarking on my journey from Langkawi’s serene shores, the thought struck me – why not let Kuala Lumpur’s urban pulse be the next chapter? Transitioning from island calm to city buzz felt like the perfect progression.
Langkawi blog It’s the beauty of Malaysia’s diversity, a symphony of experiences waiting to be explored. With Langkawi’s tranquility as a starting note and Kuala Lumpur’s vibrancy as the crescendo, my adventure took on a dynamic rhythm, each beat revealing a new facet of this captivating country. From sandy shores to towering skyscrapers, this journey showcases the diverse allure of Malaysia’s offerings.
Malaysia is indeed a diverse and vibrant country in Southeast Asia.
Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences.
This cultural diversity is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and cuisine.
The official language is Malay (Bahasa Malaysia), but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in urban areas.
Malaysian cuisine is renowned for its variety and flavors. It’s a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Javanese influences. Nasi lemak, roti canai, laksa, and satay are just a few of the many delicious dishes to try.
Malaysia’s Wonders!
Kuala Lumpur: The capital city is known for its modern skyline, iconic Petronas Twin Towers, shopping districts, and vibrant street food scene.
Penang: An island state famous for its UNESCO-listed George Town, known for its colonial architecture, street art, and diverse food offerings.
Langkawi: A tropical paradise with stunning beaches, mangroves, and outdoor activities.
Langkawi, Malaysia Malacca: A historic city known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, museums, and cultural heritage.
Borneo: The Malaysian part of Borneo island offers lush rainforests, wildlife, and the opportunity to see orangutans.
Kuala Lumpur: Where the city comes alive!
The capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is a vibrant metropolis that blends modernity with cultural richness.
With a skyline dominated by towering skyscrapers and a diverse range of attractions, KL offers a unique experience for travelers.
Mirror, mirror on the skyline!
The iconic Petronas Twin Towers are among the tallest twin towers in the world. These architectural marvels are a symbol of Kuala Lumpur and offer breathtaking views from their observation deck.
An interesting fact about the Petronas Twin Towers is that they were once the tallest buildings in the world and held that title from their completion in 1998 until 2004. They were surpassed by Taipei 101 in Taiwan. Despite losing the title of the world’s tallest buildings, the Petronas Twin Towers remain one of the most recognizable and iconic architectural landmarks globally.
KL’s diversity is evident in its neighborhoods. Chinatown, Little India, and Kampung Baru offer glimpses into different cultures, traditions, and cuisines.
Savoring street flavours!
The city is a haven for food lovers. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, KL’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, featuring Malaysian, Chinese, Indian, and other international cuisines.
City Vibrancy!
Kuala Lumpur is a shopper’s paradise. Explore modern shopping malls like Pavilion KL, Suria KLCC, and Mid Valley Megamall, or browse through the bustling markets for unique finds.
KL’s modern architecture is impressive, with structures like the Kuala Lumpur Tower and the Exchange 106 building adding to the city’s futuristic appeal.
KL comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife scene. Enjoy rooftop bars, night markets, and entertainment options that cater to various preferences.
KL offers efficient public transportation options like the KL Monorail, LRT, and MRT systems, making it easy to navigate the city.
River Mystique!
The “River of Life” is a transformative urban regeneration project in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It involves the restoration and beautification of the Klang and Gombak Rivers that converge in the heart of the city.
River of life, Malaysia River of Life project in Kuala Lumpur represents a significant effort to rejuvenate urban waterways, enhance public spaces, and create a harmonious blend between natural elements, culture, and modern urban living. It has transformed the rivers into lively focal points of the city, inviting residents and visitors to engage with their surroundings and enjoy the beauty of urban waterscapes.
I was truly captivated by the mesmerizing sight of what seemed like “smoke” rising from the River of Life.
Indeed, the phenomenon of mist rising from the River of Life in Kuala Lumpur has sparked various interpretations and discussions. Some might see it as a poetic reminder of nature’s beauty, while others may find it enchanting and mysterious. The mist’s appearance can evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, leading to many interpretations and conversations about the science behind it. Regardless of how people perceive it, the mist adds a touch of magic to the river’s ambiance, turning a simple natural occurrence into a captivating spectacle that can be appreciated from various perspectives.
This phenomenon is a result of warm water gracefully evaporating into the cooler air, crafting a dreamlike mist that dances above the water’s surface. It’s nature’s way of enchanting us with its magical interplay of elements.
This explanation truly resonates with me. It wonderfully captures the essence of the mist rising from the River of Life.
Jacaranda!
The Jacaranda tree, scientifically known as Jacaranda mimosifolia, is a species native to South America. It’s famous for its stunning purple-blue flowers that cover the tree during its blooming period. The tree has a distinct fern-like foliage and is often planted as an ornamental tree in various parts of the world due to its beauty.
Seeing Jacaranda trees in Malaysia might be surprising due to their origin in South America.
Jacaranda trees have been planted in the River of Life project area in Malaysia for their ornamental beauty. While they are not native to Malaysia, they are often cultivated in various parts of the world as decorative trees. Seeing Jacaranda trees in the River of Life area could be a result of intentional landscaping choices.
Bidding Adieu!
Whether you’re drawn to its towering skyscrapers, rich culture, diverse cuisine, or vibrant street life, Kuala Lumpur promises an exciting and dynamic experience for every traveler.
Absolutely, exploring both Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur offers a well-rounded experience of Malaysia. Langkawi offers stunning beaches, natural beauty, and a relaxing atmosphere, while Kuala Lumpur provides a dynamic urban landscape with modern skyscrapers, cultural landmarks, and vibrant street life. Each destination has its own unique charm, and combining the two allows you to enjoy both the tranquil island life and the bustling city vibes. Have a fantastic time exploring and capturing the best of both worlds!
As I bid adieu to the captivating beauty of Malaysia, I’m not saying goodbye, but rather planting a promise to return. The memories created, the experiences cherished, and the warm embrace of this diverse land have left an indelible mark on my heart.
Until our paths converge again, Malaysia, I carry you with me in my wanderlust-filled dreams and travel aspirations.
-
“Langkawi: A Tropical Tapestry of Adventures and Serenity”
Langkawi.
Langkawi is a stunning archipelago of 99 islands located in the Andaman Sea, off the northwestern coast of Malaysia.
Known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, Langkawi is a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Hello destination!
To reach Langkawi from India, you have a few options.
The most convenient way to reach Langkawi from India is by taking a flight. You’ll need to fly to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, and then take a connecting flight or ferry to Langkawi.
KLIA2 - Fly to Kuala Lumpur: Many airlines offer direct flights from major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
- Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi: After arriving at KLIA, you can catch a connecting flight to Langkawi International Airport (LGK). Several airlines operate flights between Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi, and the flight duration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
If you’re looking for a more scenic option and have some extra time, you can take a ferry from either Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah to Langkawi. These ferry rides offer beautiful views of the Andaman Sea and the islands along the way.
Another option is to fly to Penang International Airport (PEN) and then take a ferry from Penang to Langkawi. The ferry ride from Penang takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Make sure to check the visa requirements for Malaysia before you travel. Indian passport holders typically require a visa to enter Malaysia. You can apply for an e-visa or a regular visa through the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate.
The currency used in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
English is widely spoken in Malaysia, so communication shouldn’t be a major issue.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions and entry requirements may be in place. It’s essential to check the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and health and safety guidelines before planning your trip.Remember to book your flights and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s also a good idea to plan your itinerary in Langkawi to make the most of your time on this beautiful island.
Island dreams!
Langkawi boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in the region. Pantai Cenang is a popular beach known for its soft sands and clear waters.
Pantai Tengah, Pantai Kok, and Tanjung Rhu are also worth exploring for their beauty and tranquility.
Boat Ride Bliss!
Explore Langkawi’s rich mangrove forests on a boat tour.
The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park offers an opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including eagles, macaques, and otters.
Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi. You can also visit bat caves and experience the unique ecosystem.
Bat Cave, Langkawi. Underwater Magic!
Underwater world aquarium is a great place to learn about marine life in the region.
It features a large underwater tunnel that allows you to get up close to various aquatic species, including sharks and rays.
Langkawi offers a range of water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, and parasailing. The clear waters and diverse marine life make it an ideal destination for underwater exploration.City Lights, Starry Nights!
Langkawi’s night markets are a must-visit for trying local street food and shopping for souvenirs.
The night market in Pantai Cenang is especially popular.
Pantai Cenang!
Langkawi is a duty-free island, making it a great place to shop for items like chocolates, alcohol, cosmetics, and more at relatively lower prices.
Explore the cultural side of Langkawi by visiting attractions like the Langkawi Craft Complex and the Mahsuri’s Tomb. You can also watch traditional performances and immerse yourself in local traditions.Golden Hour!
Savor Langkawi’s stunning sunsets by joining a sunset cruise. These cruises often include dinner, live music, and an unforgettable view as the sun dips below the horizon.
Four Seasons, Langkawi!
With hearts full of excitement and aching feet from a day of exploration, we made our way back to the welcoming embrace of our hotel. The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape as we stepped through the doors.
Four Seasons, Langkawi. From the moment I set foot in the lavish lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel, I knew I was about to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Four Seasons, Langkawi. The scent of blooming flowers and the gentle hum of the tropical breeze welcomed me, creating an ambiance of pure luxury and serenity. Little did I know that this stay would redefine my understanding of opulence and hospitality.
As I walked through the elegant corridors adorned with tasteful artwork and intricate details, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe.
Opening the door to my room was like opening a portal to a realm of ultimate comfort. The spacious layout, adorned with plush furnishings and soothing hues, was a sanctuary that promised relaxation. The soft, inviting bed beckoned me to unwind, while the panoramic view of the sparkling ocean from my balcony was nothing short of breathtaking.
The resort offers a range of accommodations designed to provide comfort, luxury, and a connection to the natural surroundings.
This includes spacious rooms, suites, and villas, each elegantly designed and equipped with modern amenities. Some villas even come with private pools.
The resort is known for its exceptional amenities that contribute to an indulgent experience.
Leaving the Four Seasons Hotel was bittersweet, but I carry with me the essence of those enchanting days. I am grateful for the chance to have experienced this pinnacle of luxury, and I can only hope that someday, others will be fortunate enough to bask in the splendor that is the Four Seasons Hotel.
Breathe, Relax, Repeat!
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, exploring natural wonders, or indulging in cultural experiences, Langkawi offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler. It’s a destination that truly captures the essence of tropical paradise.
Traveling to an island is like stepping into a world where the worries of the mainland fade away, and all that remains are the whispers of the sea and the secrets of the sand!
-
Oh! Taj Mahal!
Like everyone else, I aspire to see all the seven wonders. One of the seven wonders of the world is in our country, so I am most eager to visit it.
This time I thought I would go by train and booked the ticket and continued my journey. I downloaded some films and games to kill the time because I had to spend two days in the train.
I began my journey. I wasn’t bored, contrary to what I expected. Sitting on the train and taking in the sights helped me pass the time. Additionally, I had a lot of fun with the people I was with. I had a wonderful time.
I made it to Agra, finally. I headed to Taj Mahal in a normal auto. I felt that the driver took a shortcut to get to the Taj Mahal since I couldn’t understand why such a world famous landmark has so many people living in poor, unsanitary conditions.
Marvel!
I arrived at the Taj Mahal in the end. Like a tiny dot inside a large gate, I saw that magnificent structure. I didn’t feel particularly surprised as I stood at the gate. However, as I walked towards it, I felt like the Taj Mahal was taking me to an enchanted world. The closer I got to the Taj Mahal, the bigger the building seemed to me.
A marvel, the Taj Mahal. It is indeed a sight that grows more stunning the longer you gaze upon it. I fell captivated of those walls.
Shah Jahan’s love for Mumtaz was evident in every stone. The Yamuna flowing behind the Taj Mahal seemed to me like Shah Jahan’s sobs.
It is quite a mausoleum of living stones created by the emperor’s love!
Hues!
I came with the intention of seeing Agra Fort and Taj Mahal that day. I nevertheless made the decision to spend the day at the Taj Mahal itself, blinded by its beauty.
When I arrived, the sky was overcast. I found the Taj Mahal to be somewhat blue. However, the palace’s hue changed when when the skies were clear and the black clouds disappeared.
The palace’s colour altered again around dusk, and I sensed a pinkish hue approaching.
I inquired with the locals and found out that this is because of the marble used. The most popular marble on the planet, white Makrana marble, which is utilized to build the Taj Mahal, has an essential impact in how the structure changes it’s colour.
Black Taj Mahal!
The tale of Shah Jahan’s Black Taj Mahal is yet another one that astonished me.
Shah Jahan wanted a mausoleum for himself that resembled the Taj Mahal. He started the construction of so-called “Black Taj Mahal”. Unfortunately, he couldn’t finish it because he was overthrown by his own son Aurangzeb.
There are claims that it is a myth. Whatever it may be, I always enjoy hearing the myths and tales from each era.
I was delighted that my wish to see the Taj Mahal had come true. I merely sat there for a bit and watched the tourists.
I did not have such high expectations. I was on a quest to see, but this mausoleum was able to hold me like a magnet.
This incredible marvel cannot, in my opinion, be referred to as a monument. An excellent architectural design it is. A recollection of love, yearning, and separation.
Oh! Taj Mahal, You truly are a wonder!
-
On the banks of the Hooghly!!
Books interest me, but I’m not a dedicated reader. However, I’ve traced my fingers through the pages of the books written by the great Rabindranath Tagore and Madhavi kutty.
The works of these authors sparked a desire in me to explore Kolkata. The depiction of the places inspired me to visit the land of cultures and I felt the soul of writers on every wall that stood up!
And who never wants to taste the matka chai? Yes, I marked them down on my bucket list!
I started my journey with a great desire to walk the streets I dreamed of.
While you step out of the airport the first thing that grabs your attention is the famous yellow taxis of Kolkata reflecting the aesthetics of Bollywood movies. It’s a surreal experience and the movie frames reels right in front of you.
Park street!
Coming from Kerala and walking through the packed streets witnessing the big mansions and old structures is quite overwhelming and hectic. But looking at the other side I believe the charm of the city lies in those streets and history echoes when I take each step forward. It hasn’t forgotten its root.
The views I saw there were amazing. Perhaps because it had been a long-awaited trip, I was filled with joy. I observed the old structures, the people, and the small shops curiously.
I initially stopped by a store for matka chai and barley cookies. I asked the seller about the history of matka chai, satisfied that I had crossed something off my bucket list. He told me it’s called a “bhar”.
The sweet, milky tea that is sold on the streets of Kolkata is served in handmade clay cups called “bhar”. Earlier chai was served in these clay cups everywhere. But plastic has quickly taken the place of clay. However, Kolkata managed to carry on this tradition.
The same goes for the hand-pulled rickshaws here. It is considered as British legacy in Kolkata’s colonial treasure.
Since the late 19th century, hand-pulled rickshaws have been roaming the streets of Kolkata.
It’s an incredible sight to see them go with this rickshaw amidst these huge buildings and vehicles.
Walking down the Park Street that Madhavikutty expounded on in her collection of memoirs, I felt like I was living in her writings.
Esplanade market, Kolkata I explored Dharmatala market, a well-known place where you can get all kinds of clothes, shoes and many more. I collected some souvenirs.
Dharmatala, Kolkata Prinsep Ghat!
Prinsep Ghat, Kolkata To get away from the busy streets and enjoy a few moments of my own, I made my way to Prinsep Ghat.
Prinsep Ghat, Kolkata I sat there and the magnificent view of Vidyasagar bridge awed me.
I set out on a boat trip down the Hooghly River in the hope of getting a better look at it. Those were snapshots of harmony.
Howrah Bridge!
Howrah, Kolkata Howrah bridge is another beautiful sight that I want to see in Kolkata. Howrah bridge is bigger and surprisingly lovely.
The Howrah Bridge, a massive steel bridge over the Hooghly River, connects Howrah and Kolkata. It is also referred to as Rabindra Setu.
I wondered about the majesty of the bridge, which is strong enough to carry so many people and vehicles, and the human ability to make it happen.
Victoria Memorial!
I couldn’t end the trip without seeing the enchanting marble structure, Victoria Memorial.
The white-clad marble structure was beautiful, reminiscent of Queen Victoria. This iconic structure brings great beauty to Kolkata, the city of joy.
Victoria Memorial, Kolkata Leaving many more places to go, I returned home. It saddens me that I was only able to spend a few days in this lovely place away from the hustle and bustle.
Crowded streets, rushing people, and noisy vehicles have sometimes baffled me. But the sights and dreams this city has given me are so great.
Be that as it may, Kolkata has become a very dear place for me.
-
Snow, snow, everywhere!
Living in Kerala and other areas of South India, snow is something we’ve only seen in movies or some other visual media. We have heard of hail that occasionally falls but the actual pure, white snow is something we can’t ever see anywhere in these areas even if we go to nearby hill stations.
So just like any other kid who has grown up around here, I’ve always to wanted to see and feel the snow. Seeing kids playing around in the snow, making snowmen, and having snowball fights in movies and all those visuals made it out to be a dreamy experience and that’s exactly why I decided to go see the snow at the place most famous for it in India.
So many times I had planned to visit Manali but they did not materialize. After lots of failed plans, I finally set out to Manali to fulfill that wish and to experience what it is to see and touch snow in real life.
So it was quite unfortunate that I picked an off-season time and there was no snow there at all. Even without the blanket of snow, the place was amazingly beautiful and I enjoyed looking out into and exploring the ethereal landscape.
I enjoyed the trip but I was also determined to come back to see the place when it will be covered in snow.
More adamant than ever now, I started researching the season times, weather forecasts, and anything relevant to my planning. After meticulous research and monitoring, I found a time feasible for me to go and get that wish checked off my bucket list and planned my trip on that time. Made my way to Manali again through the usual transportation methods. And when I got there, the scenery was very familiarly plain and snowless. I felt a slight twinge in my heart and concluded that I’m not gonna see snow this time either.
I decided to come to terms with it and enjoy the place however it is. And with that thought, I called it a day and went to bed.
In the morning, I woke up feeling a sharp cold piercing my skin and I didn’t know what to make of it at first. After a few moments of rubbing my eyes and wondering where I was, the realization finally struck me.
Excited, I ran over to the window and looked outside and what a sight it was!
There it was. The thick, white powder covering the plain land I saw yesterday and more snow falling on top of it making it even thicker. It was like a dream come true and I was almost crying. It was much more beautiful than I had imagined and almost looked other-worldly and too good to be true. I was happier than ever and had to go out and roll around in the snow then itself.
As a budget-conscious traveler, I stayed in zostel.
Zostel is the best for travel freaks like myself as they’re not heavy on your pockets, they offer fairly good living amenities and you get to meet lots more people who think and see the world like you.
I also met a few like-minded people who were my companions for the rest of that trip.
We planned to go to Solang Valley together to enjoy its beauty.
I hadn’t brought any thick jackets which I know is surprising considering I came all the way here to see snow but it was because I didn’t have any space to pack them in as well. There are rental jacket services available which I decided to make use of and found a cozy one for myself.
Subsequently, we made our way to Solang Valley via truck and thoroughly enjoyed the rugged trip as well as the view.
When it was time to return, the news was broken to us that a blizzard had covered the way back and there would be no vehicles to commute us back.
With no other choice left, we walked around 16 kilometers to get back to our place of stay in the freezing climate.
That’s when I realized that however beautiful the snow is, our southern climate is the most comfortable for us to live in. But on the upside, you don’t get tired or sweat much. So, ignoring the feeling of a hundred needles pricking the inside of your nose and back of your head every time you take a breath, it was not that bad.
Finally, made my way back home and I felt like going back immediately. The vibe and the feeling that those places gave me are unmatched as of yet and I’m not sure if any other place can even match it going forward.
I’m looking forward to going there again. If you haven’t been there you should chart a trip too because it’s not something to be missed in one’s lifetime.
The best thing about this country is that whatever kind of place you want to visit, it provides them all; be it snowy valleys, desert plains, sandy beaches, calm lakes, or monuments of historical significance. They’re all right here and you just have to get up and get there!
Subscribe To My Newsletter
Subscribe for new travel stories and exclusive content.
Musings of a travelbug 