Weekend Itinerary around Brunei Darussalam

Heres my Suggested Itinerary for a weekend stay in Bandar Seri Bengawan, Brunei

1 — Marvel at the Detailed Architecture and Marble Carvings of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. Guests are allowed to enter during off prayer hours, with no admission fee , but a decent outfit is expected.

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The Mosque Absolutely beautiful in actual, very photogenic at any time of the day.

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2 — A Visit to the Royal Regalia Museum that houses the collection of gifts to the Sultan from all other Nations around the world. The diverse collection of valuable crafts and artifacts, is in a way an experience of world history under one roof.  Entrance is Free for all.

The Royal Regalia Museum, where the Sultan's Collection of gifts from all over the world are displayed.
The Royal Regalia Museum, where the Sultan’s Collection of gifts from all over the world are displayed.
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at the Regalia Museum
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Some art displays at the Regalia Museum

3 — A Stroll around Downtown Bandar Seri Bengawan offers significant views of Islamic – Asian Tropical Architecture at every corner.I find the city a worthwhile strolling experience for architects as well as enthusiasts of Architecture.

Around Downtown BSB
Brunei Finance Building Around Downtown BSB .
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Cute street name , where the Sultans Mosque is located
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An iconic Building along BSB’s main road
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Riverfront Promenade
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A mall at downtown BSB. You might find it small, but this establishment actually has a basement retail extension, 2 storeys below the ground. It is located along the same block as the Mosque, and as a General Rule of the Kingdom, no structure should be erected higher than the Sultan’s Mosque nearby.
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Traditional Boat Ride across the River to Campung Ayer

4 — Enjoy local Muslim Food at Gadong Night Market . Ready made dishes at Night markets are inexpensive. you can buy a chicken meal with vegetable and rice for  B$ 2.00 ( thats around 65 pesos ) . Goat Meat , chicken and fish viands are available at B$ 1.00 ( 33 pesos )

Lively Night Market District in BSB.
Lively Night Market District in BSB.
Night Market in Gadong
Night Market in Gadong
White Ampalaya , Delicious ! This was prepared by my couch surfing host, Maam Leona.
White Ampalaya , Delicious ! 
banana leaf wrapped grilled goat meat / fish. yummy!
banana leaf wrapped grilled goat meat / fish. yummy!
Very similar to Pinoy Carinderia Set up
Very similar to Pinoy Carinderia Set up . rice are wrapped in wax paper.
sticky cake snack. like pandan flavored maja blanca
sticky cake snack. like pandan flavored maja blanca
Various Sauces for Brunei Staple food, Nasi Lemak, which you will also see in Malaysian food.  These two countries share most of food, religion and culture
Various Sauces for Brunei Staple food, Nasi Lemak, which you will also see in Malaysian food. These two countries share most of food, religion and culture
Rice Cake (Puto)
Rice Cake (Puto)
Chicken Balls , Yummy !
Chicken Balls , Yummy !

5 — Enjoy a Shabu shabu Dinner ( Steam boat Dinner , as locals call it ) at downtown Bandar Seri Bengawan.

couchsurfing Family . My Host Rohger and Maam Leona.
couchsurfing Family . My Host Rohger Balili and Maam Leona.
Hot pot. usual sight in Brunei
Hot pot. usual sight in Brunei
Chicken and Beef Satay
Chicken and Beef Satay

6 — Saturday Night out at Empire Hotel at Jurung District , BSB …. and spend late night chit chats over Milk Tea and Coffee ( because liquor is rare to find in Brunei )

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Empire Hotel in Jurong, Owned by the Sultan
Empire Hotel in Jurong, Owned by the Sultan
Empire Hotel in Jurong, Owned by the Sultan
Empire Hotel in Jurong, Owned by the Sultan
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Me with friends and a Sun burnt face from spending almost 3 weeks in India and Nepal prior to Malaysia/Brunei. =p
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Teh Tarik (Brunei Style Milk Tea)

7 —– (Sunday morning) Participate in a community Outdoor Exercise  at the grounds of Tasek Lema Waterfalls / Nature Park

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locals doing aerobics with the view of Tasek Lema Falls
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Me . =)

8 — Go Swimming at the Sultan Bolkiah’s Sports Stadium Park

In lieu of not having bars and Liquors, the Sultan of Brunei provided affordable outdoor activities for people to enjoy , like pools, health clubs, and football games every night. Entrance to this nice pool is only  B$ 1  (  35 pesos )
In lieu of not having bars and Liquors, the Sultan of Brunei provided affordable outdoor activities for people to enjoy , like pools, health clubs, and football games every night. Entrance to this nice pool is only B$ 1 ( 35 pesos )
Olympic standard Diving Pool, for only B$ 1.
Olympic standard Diving Pool, for only B$ 1.

9 — Watch a Local Charity Show where you can actually meet a lot of Filipinos working as Teachers in Brunei . A lot of Filipinos excel and are highly regarded in Brunei for Various skills , which is nice to know. Since It was my free time , I just tagged along with my host , Leona , who co-arranged this charity show for special children.  It was also a good opportunity for me to get inside the Sultan’s Convention Centre =)

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Intricately made wooden ceiling
Intricately made wooden ceiling

I would have wanted to get inside the Sultan’s Palace but it only opens at certain times of the year. As such, locals recommend tourists to visit Brunei , the week after Ramadan . It is when the Kingdom is at its most festive. They also said that The Sultan’s palace opens for locals and tourists , and sumptuous buffet is served by the royal family for three days , which is open for everybody.  And if lucky enough, you might also get a chance to see the Sultan . Thats something I look forward to experience when I visit Brunei Again =)

Getting Around Kathmandu in a Day

It was Spring when I visited Nepal , which was between March/April when the wind from the Himalayas gently cool Kathmandu valley and the rest of the mountainous country. Temperature is soothing at around 18 degrees C during daytime. Locals say it was the perfect time to visit the country , as it sometimes get uncomfortably warm in summer , and too cold during winter. ( Although it doesn’t snow in Kathmandu Valley ).

For those with limited time in Nepal , here are the recommended Visits to world heritage sites that should never be missed. These recommended places are just within Kathmandu, thus, visiting these four places can be fit in a day.

Allot some budget for Taxi or rickshaws , since the buses within Kathmandu City can be quite in chaos.  ( However, buses going to other cities are OK )

Visit Swayambounath Temple on early Morning to observe buddhist prayers – Swayambounath ( The Monkey Temple , also known as Harati Devi Temple )  is a Buddhist Temple that sits on top of a hill ,with an overlooking view of Kathmandu City.    It is ideal to visit Swayambounath temple early  in the morning  around 6 am to observe and even participate with buddhist locals chanting personal prayers while circumambulating around the stupa.

Swayambounath is just 15-20 minute taxi ride from Thamel , for 100 – 200 NPR ( 2 usd ) . Some tourist just walk it up from Thamel , for maybe around 30-45 minutes.  Meanwhile, me and a friend hopped on a rickshaw for 100 NPR, thinking that taxis would be to expensive. But apparently, rickshaws cannot go up the rolling terrain on the way to the temple , as such, we were just dropped off somewhere near and had to walk up for another 15 minutes. But it was a leisure walk as you get to pass by houses and a local school. =)

Entry fee is at 200 NPR (2 USD)

Me and Karen riding an overpriced Rickshaw around Thamel.
Me and Karen riding an overpriced Rickshaw around Thamel.

Always keep an eye on your pouch as there are a lot of monkeys on the way up this hill, eager to grab any loose thing you carry. lol

Up the hill of Swayambounath Temple (Monkey Temple )
Up the hill of Swayambounath Temple (Monkey Temple )
A View of Swayambounath, the monkey temple on top of a Hill over looking Kathmandu City
A View of Swayambounath, the monkey temple on top of a Hill over looking Kathmandu City
Swayambounath
Swayambounath
Buddhist turnbells when circumambulating the Swayambounath Stuppa . Kathmandu Nepal
Buddhist turnbells when circumambulating the Swayambounath Stupa . Kathmandu Nepal

Kathmandu Durbar Square , the City palace complex , and biggest in Nepal, although a bit crowded.  Entry Fee is at 750 NPR ( 7 usd ) for foreigners, although there are a few unguarded streets which can lead you in the complex for free. =)

Taxi from Swayambounath to the Durbar square costs around 200 NPR .

Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Intricate wood carvings of Homes in Bhaktapur
Intricate wood carvings

 

Chimes and Bells are usual sight on streets of nepal
Some shops around the Durbar Square . Chimes and Bells are usual sight on streets of nepal
hand crafted Metal Hardwares and door handles  !
hand crafted Metal Hardwares and door handles !
hand carved wood items . On this Photo are some quaint Card holders
hand carved wood items . On this Photo are some quaint Card holders
Random Kids on the street
Random Kids on the street

Pashupatinath Temple should not be missed . But do note that this place is not for the faint hearted. Pashupatinath is a Hindu Temple where Traditional Public Cremations are done. The temple stands on a  river bank where the dead is cremated , and the ashes hurled onto the water. The river, known to locals as the Bagmati, flows down and onto the holy Ganges river of India , where this Hindu Tradition originates.

Visit Pashupatinath Temple with an open mind, as you will definitely see cadavers here and smell burning flesh.

Entry fee = 1000 NPR at the main gate  ( or you can pass by another remote entrance on top of the hill, near the open park to get in for free)

Taxi from Durbar square to the Pashupatinath costs around 200 – 300 NPR .

Some men dressed as Sikhs .
Some men dressed as Sikhs .
Public Cremation at Pashupatinath Temple, A hindu Tradition
Public Cremation at Pashupatinath Temple, A hindu Tradition
Public cremation of the dead , a tradition done by Hindus , held at Pashupatinath Temple
Public cremation of the dead , a tradition done by Hindus , held at Pashupatinath Temple
Photo selfie with the Sadhu , or the holy men of Hindu, in Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu
Photo selfie with the Sadhu , or the holy men of Hindu, in Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu . Photo taken by Sherald Aldaba

From Pashupatinath Temple , It is fairly walkable to another World Heritage Site , the Boudhanath Stupa , which will take you around 30-40 minutes.  ( Get a direction from google map ) . Nonetheless , it will be a leisurely walk around downtown Kathmandu , and you will also pass by some commercial districts. Try some local snacks along the way. =)  Ideally, you will reach Boudhanath Stupa around 4 pm.

Commercial Establishments at downtown Kathmandu
Commercial Establishments at downtown Kathmandu
cows eating grass. landscaping is not ideal in India and Nepal. hehe
cows eating grass. landscaping is not ideal in India and Nepal. hehe
Funny looking foo dog statue
Funny looking foo dog statue
Cows freely roam around Kathmandu
Cows freely roam around Kathmandu
Mobile Fruit stand
Mobile Fruit stand. Grapes are super cheap in Nepal for only 200 NPR ( 2 usd / kilo )

Boudhanath Stupa  , The national Symbol of Nepal , which is also one of the biggest Stupa in the world.   Around the Stupa, is a very charming , well manicured commercial district  of Kathmandu.  Stop by at a rooftop cafe and enjoy the view of Kathmandu as the sky turns indigo .

entrance fee : 100 NPR ( or just follow where the locals go in. = )

Eye od the Boudanath  Stuppa
Eye of the Boudhanath Stuppa
The iconic Boudanath Stuppa in central Kathmandu .
The iconic Boudhanath Stuppa in central Kathmandu .
Photoshoot at Boudanath Stupa, downtown Kathmandu
Photoshoot at Boudanath Stupa, downtown Kathmandu
Nepalese Women lounging around
Nepalese Women lounging around
A tourist finding her nice corner at Boudanath Stupa
A tourist finding her nice corner at Boudanath Stupa
Downtown Kathmandu . the nice side of the city surrounding boudanath stuppa
Downtown Kathmandu . the nice side of the city surrounding boudanath stuppa

 

Backpacking Kathmandu Nepal with VISA on Arrival

Getting a Nepal Visa On Arrival (VOA) in Kathmandu is easy; Probably the most lenient entry  I’ve been to so far. Almost all nationalities, Filipinos included, can avail the Visa On Arrival in Kathmandu Airport.

What to Bring ( As of April 2014):

1. One Passport Sized  ID Picture , with white background (or you can avail of the services at the airport but its expensive.)

2. A Photocopy of passport containing Details.

3. Filled up VOA Form, available at the Arrival Area

4. Tourist Visa Fee : (All visas are multiple entry.  Nepal Immigration prefers to accept US dollars for the visa fee payment.)

—15 days or less, 25usd.

—30 days, 40usd

—90 days, 100usd.

Nelal Visa on Arrival for Tourist
Nepal Visa on Arrival for Tourist

For whatever reason, the Intl. Airport in Kathmandu was very relaxed and tolerant on arriving guest.  When I arrived , my backpack did went through the x-ray machine, but as i’ve observed, the officer did not even bother to check the x-ray monitor. Not Good !

Tribhuvan International airport (Kathmandu)
Tribhuvan International airport (Kathmandu)
My flight from Delhi to Kathmandu .  2.5 hours
My flight from Delhi to Kathmandu . 2.5 hours

Prepaid Airport Taxi is the best option to take you to the city center, for 750 NPR ( 8 usd ) . It would be ideal if you find a fellow tourist to share taxi with. After all, almost everyone would probably head to Thamel , which is the known tourists’ area at Kathmandu City Center.  As I’ve read, Public Transpo can be a bit unpredictable in Nepal, since the supply and cost of Fuel is also unstable .  The time I visited, there are no public buses that can take you out of the airport directly to the city center.   Airport to Thamel is around 45 minutes.  Roads are tight and dusty everywhere in Kathmandu, and seldom do you find an Air-conditioned Taxi, so prepare for that.

Where I Stayed :

Stayed at Happily Ever After Hostel at Thamel Marg, and you might have to get some directions from Google , as the roads in Thamel are like spider webs ! Its when hopping in a fix priced prepaid airport taxi comes in good use.

An overnight stay with Happily Ever After Hostel only cost me around 4.5 USD with breakfast.  Expect to share room with 10 people. But Beds were decent and comfortable. Dorms are not Air-conditioned, but it was Spring the time I visited Nepal so the weather is soothing and comfortably cool ( around 18 degrees C at daytime).

The Hostel Has a nice roofdeck , Crowd is more of yuppies and mountain climbers. No Kids allowed.

Happily Ever After Hostel where I stayed in Thamel
Happily Ever After Hostel where I stayed in Thamel

Nepal is relatively cheap to explore . Usual Food and Accommodation are cheap.  Just to give you a picture ,  1 USD is  around 100 NPR (Nepalese Rupee).  With an appetite like mine, I say that 5-7 USD /day food allowance is enough.  Bottled Water is also cheap in Nepal (30 NPR/ 0.30 usd per liter), as the country is abundant with fresh spring water. Small convenient stores are all around, just like Sari Sari Stores in the Philippines.

A usual full vegetarian meal   ( they call it “Daal Bhat “) will cost you 160 NPR  , with unlimited refill of Side dishes and Rice on most places !. So thats just around 1.5 usd for a heavy lunch.

Daal Bhat , Nepali Traditional Vegetarian food . with some momos/dumplings
Daal Bhat , Nepali Traditional Vegetarian food . with some momos/dumplings
Thakali kitchen in Thamel. Unlimited Side dish refill
Thakali kitchen in Thamel. Unlimited Side dish refill
fellow backpackers I met in Kathmandu
fellow backpackers I met in Kathmandu

Meat /chicken BBQ’s will cost you around 350 NPR ( 3.5 usd ) but it can be shared. Heres a picture of Afgan Chicken from a basic restaurant along Thamel named “MacDonalds” . ( Yes ! its like a pirated name. haha )

Afgan style bbq chicken . smoked on a traditional clay pot
Afgan style bbq chicken . smoked on a traditional clay pot

Other Affordable but satisfying meals I had around Kathmandu , which are less than 1 USD.

The Delicious Vegetarian Chow Mien.  just outside Pashupatinath Temple. Yummy!
The Delicious Vegetarian Chow Mien. just outside Pashupatinath Temple. Yummy! costs only around 60 NPR
Vegetarian Momos.
Vegetarian Momos. 100 NPR , for sharing

Seedless Grapes are cheap in Nepal, just around 200 NPR per kilo . Its fun munching on this while walking around the city. I just bought a bottle of cold water to wash the grapes, and soaked them a bit to chill.

Mobile Fruit stand
Mobile Fruit stand

Trying out something new ! Pomegranate fruit !

pomegranate fruit. very textury
pomegranate fruit. very textury

Heres a Glimpse of Thamel , the backpacker’s place in Kathmandu.  Reminds me a bit of India, but the streets are more tame and less noisy =)

A view of Thamel
A view of Thamel
Thakali Kitchen, at Thamel. Highly recommended.
Thakali Kitchen, at Thamel. Highly recommended.
Couchsurfing friends in Nepal.
Couchsurfing friends in Nepal.
At mommy Rita's House
At mommy Rita’s House

This is the famous cheap Rhum in Nepal , costs only around 60 NPR (  less than 1 USD ) But in some stores, they sell it at 80 NPR on tourists.  This rhum is 28% alcohol but surprisingly the taste is quite nice ( compared to Tanduay ) .  Unicorn Rhum has a bit of mild Ginseng Taste to it.

Nepalese rhum with 28 % Alcohol!  We had this almost every night during my stay in Kathmandu  . Fun !
Nepalese rhum with 28 % Alcohol! We had this almost every night during my stay in Kathmandu . Fun !

Beer is not so cheap in Nepal as compared the the Philippines. A Grande (750 ML ) is around 200 NPR ( 2 usd )

Nepalese Beer is good . But  Ph's Red horse is still awesome !!
Nepalese Beer is good . But Ph’s Red horse is still awesome !!

Check out the must Visit Places around Kathmandu Here  =) … ( https://iamjosemanuel.com/2014/06/18/getting-around-kathmandu-in-a-day/ )

Backpacking Delhi on a Cheap

Delhi was my last stop when I visited India , and as expected, my budget for this backpacking leg was expectedly depleting. I came from Agra, and food , accommodation and fare were a bit pricey there, not to mention the entrances. Given that, I tried to find cheap options  for my 3 nights stay in Delhi.   Here are some highlights. Was the savings worth the hassle ?  Lets find out. =)

Agra to Delhi is around 5 hours train ride , given the short distance, i opt to get the cheapest train seat class  ( The sleeper’s class ) for 250 INR ( 4 usd ).  It was difficult to personally get tickets at the station, but fortunately, A couchsurfing friend of mine booked my tickets online, which was a huge help !  The ticket booth in Agra was full packed, because it was Friday. and it would be close to impossible for me to get tickets on my own.

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Waiting Area at Agra Train Station

The Cheap Train Ride 

The train to Delhi arrived 4 hours late, And whats even more hassle is that I actually hopped on the wrong train!  Though still heading its way to Delhi , but the train will stop at a southern station. I was a bit scared because the train officer might just shove me off the train at the middle of nowhere . But soon I found out that the officers do not check tickets at the sleeper’s class. Hooray for me!

It was a relief to find Fran and Greg at the sleeper's class , they were also unsure of they got in the right train. haha !
It was a relief to find Fran and Greg at the sleeper’s class , they were also unsure if they hopped on the right train. haha !
How I spent my 5 hours sleeper's class train ride from Agra to Delhi. Hello Feet !
How I spent my 5 hours sleeper’s class train ride from Agra to Delhi. Hello Feet !
sleeper's Class Train
sleeper’s Class Train
walking on some over pa!
walking on some overpass in India train station can be fatal . haha!
A picture of the cheap sleeper's class train ride,. worth 255 INR  ( 4 usd )
A picture of the cheap sleeper’s class train ride,. worth 255 INR ( 4 usd )

For Hassle free bookings, ask the hotel receptionist to book your tickets. Better seats at 600 + INR (10 + usd) will be offered to you, nonetheless.  And it comes with food water and snacks.

Metro Train

Getting around Delhi is actually easy and inexpensive, thanks to the efficient metro Train embracing all corners of the city.

Delhi Metro Train Map
Delhi Metro Train Map
Just to give you a picture odf Delhi Metro Railway at peak hours
Just to give you a picture odf Delhi Metro Railway at peak hours

Where  I stayed :

Hotel Yes Boss' Cheap Non air Bedroom for only 250  INR . around 4-5 usd , the cheapest Ive found along Main Bazaar, PajarGanj
Hotel Yes Boss’ Cheap Non air Bedroom for only 250 INR . around 4-5 usd , the cheapest Ive found along Main Bazaar, PajarGanj  . Room is not good, but location is ok, just a few minutes walk to RK Ashram Station
The comfort room you get for the cheap room. The bowl was dirty.
The comfort room you get for the cheap room. The bowl was dirty.
bedside outlet at a hotel in India. Bringing of Plug adaptor is necessary !
bedside outlet at a hotel in India. Bringing of Plug adaptor is necessary !

Verdict : Not Recommended . Prepare budget for a better room.

Here are the Iconic spots in  delhi that I’ve Visited , without spending much on entrances. 

The Ashkadram  Hindu Temple. Built during 1990’s , and is probably one of the most intricately made temples I’ve been to.  Highly recommended to Visit . This place also has a great vegetarian food court !

Location : 10 minutes walk from Ashkadram Station.

Ideal Time to Visit : Afternoon . allot 3 – 4 hours for the shows. 9:30 am – 7:30 pm , Tuesday to Sunday . (monday closed )

Entrance  :  Getting in is free of charge , since it is a place for worship! But the show ( Religious Hindu Movie) and other activities require a minimum fee of around 130 INR ( 2.5 USD ).

Ashkadram Temple . entrance is Free. but picture taking is not allowed at the temple grounds.
Ashkadram Temple . entrance is Free. but picture taking is not allowed at the temple grounds.

Lotus Temple :  Place for Balai Worship .

Location : around 10 minutes walk from Kalkaji Mandir Train Station.  The temple can immediately be seen from the train.

Time to visit : 9:30 am – 5:30 pm , Tuesday to Sunday . (monday closed )

Entrance : Free !

BaLai Temple ( more known as the Lotus Temple) in Delhi. Contrary to the usual notion, This is not a hindu or Buddhist Temple . This is a Church of Balai , a congregation where all other religions are welcome and encouraged to worship under on roof,  promoting unity and  acceptance between people of different backgrounds.
BaLai Temple ( more known as the Lotus Temple) in Delhi. Contrary to the usual notion, This is not a hindu or Buddhist Temple . This is a Church of Balai , a congregation where all other religions are welcome and encouraged to worship under on roof, promoting unity and acceptance between people of different backgrounds.

 

Iskcon Hindu Temple :  One of the most Iconic Hindu Temple in Delhi . Here you will meet a lot of westerners do volunteering works in India.

Location : at the back of Lotus Temple .  Across the Tree Park

Time to visit : open all days of the week. 4:30 am to 9 pm

Entrance : Free !

Figures of Hindu Gods at Iskcon Temple
Figures of Hindu Gods at Iskcon Temple
Iskcon Hindu Temple in Delhi,  around 10 minutes walk from Lotus Temple .  No entrance Fee !
Iskcon Hindu Temple in Delhi, around 10 minutes walk from Lotus Temple .
No entrance Fee !

Qutub Minar – The Victory Tower of Delhi .

Location : 20 minutes walk from Qutub Minar Metro Station

Entrance : 250 INR ( around 4 usd ) for foreigners

Open all days of the week. 9 – 5  pm

Highest standing minaret in India ,at New Delhi
Highest standing minaret in India ,at New Delhi
Details of the Minaret
Details of the Minaret
Other interesting features at the minaret's fort
Other interesting features at the minaret’s fort
Quotab Minar of  Delhi
Qutub Minar of Delhi

As for the other historical spots like Jama Masjid and the Red Fort near Chandni Chowk, I just passed by them , since blog say the Red fort is very similar to Agra Fort, which  I visited Already .  And the entrances are expensive !

Here are some snap shots I got While roaming around the streets of Delhi.

Chandi Chowk Market Place 

at a Market in Delhi. I really wondered  what stripping the chicken off its skin was for. Deep fried Chicken skin is the best, man !
at a Market in Delhi. I really wondered what stripping the chicken off its skin was for. Deep fried Chicken skin is the best, man !
The deep fried Nude Chicken In Chandni Chowk. Interesting ! but i still prefer the skinned piece with all those Bad MSG hahaha
The deep fried Nude Chicken In Chandni Chowk. Interesting ! but i still prefer the skinned piece with all those Bad MSG hahaha

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Masala Egg Omelette Sandwich . A cheap street food , prepared while you wait. Which was is good because you get to see how its done. (think fairly clean street food)
Masala Egg Omelette Sandwich . A cheap street food , prepared while you wait. Which was is good because you get to see how its done. (think fairly clean street food)
A food stall at Chandi Chowk, Delhi
A food stall at Chandi Chowk, Delhi
Food stalls along Chandi Chowk Delhi
Food stalls along Chandi Chowk Delhi
fried Samosas and wraps along Main Bazaar. a piece costs around 10 INR .
fried Samosas and wraps along Main Bazaar. a piece costs around 10 INR .

When In Delhi , food allowance of 400 INR/ day (around 7-8 usd) is actually enough if you are on a tight budget, as there are cheap sandwiches and vegetarian set meals (Thali) which is only around 60 – 80 INR ( 1 USD ) .   But seriously, you wouldn’t want to deprive yourself all the time, right?  Set Aside a better allowance for food and enjoy authentic Indian Cuisine. Being the capital, Delhi is heaven for Indian food trippers , where you can find all cuisines from north to south of India..  Check out my Restaurant Recommendations at this post …

Food Trip in Delhi ( And how much it costs! )

Some snapshots of the Streets in Delhi 

A view of Main Bazaar , the backpacker's area in Delhi , where I lived for a few nights.  It is Chaotic in a very interesting way.
A view of Main Bazaar , the backpacker’s area in Delhi , where I lived for a few nights. It is Chaotic in a very interesting way.
Free Food at Pajarganj !! =) well , its for the locals only.  Its like a weekly alms giving of wealthy hindu Families. You see this everywhere in India, mostly near temples
Free Food at Pajarganj !! =) well , its for the locals only. Its like a weekly alms giving of wealthy hindu Families. You see this everywhere in India, mostly near temples
Typical Delhi Rickshaw / Tuktuk
Typical Delhi Rickshaw / Tuktuk
A clinic Along Delhi
A clinic Along Pajar Ganj

 

New Delhi International Airport  – Quite a Luxury ! 

a centerpiece at New Delhi Intl Airport
a centerpiece at New Delhi Intl Airport
New Delhi Intl Airport has a Bar/Billiards/Buffet at the departure area
New Delhi Intl Airport has a Bar/Billiards/Buffet at the departure area
A native souvenir shop/Spa at Delhi Intl Airport . This features the  warm foot soak
A native souvenir shop/Spa at Delhi Intl Airport . This features the warm foot soak
Delhi Intl Airport Departure Lounge
Delhi Intl Airport Departure Lounge
Architectural Details at New Delhi International Airport . Just Stunning !
Architectural Details at New Delhi International Airport . Just Stunning !

 

 

Whats Inside My Travel Backpack ?

Thought of sharing with you what nitty gritty things I usually bring with me when I travel. Just hand carry , Ive never done “checked in luggage” so far, since I started traveling solo. Travel light, travel smart lang ang style !

Here are my stuff =)

My backpack . just around 45 L , with a metal back support.   inside this, I have a small sling bag , for my camera , notebook, and other stuff i carry out.  As much as possible, both hands are free of anything =) i hate carrying more than one bag on long distances.
My backpack . just around 45 L , with a metal back support. inside this, I have a small sling bag , for my camera , notebook, and other stuff i carry out everyday.
As much as possible, both my hands are free of anything when i travel =) i hate carrying more than one bag on long distances.
Sleeved Shirts for cold destinations.  Plain colors are usually better on picture when traveling, the printed ones are just to obvious when you have used repeatedly. hihi =) Also , I only bring cheap ones by the way (some, second hands), because there are times that i leave behind used clothes to give space for some stuff i bought along the way.  Always check on the current season of your destination, to know what type of clothes to bring. The time I went to Nepal, it was Spring of 2014, sleeved clothes were a big help. and Since it was cool, I never sweat a lot, so its ok to use clothes repeatedly.
Sleeved Shirts for cold destinations.
Plain colors are usually better on picture when traveling, the printed ones are just to obvious when you have used repeatedly. hihi =)
Also , I only bring cheap ones by the way (some, second hands), because there are times that i leave behind used clothes to give space for some stuff i bought along the way.
Always check on the current season of your destination, to know what type of clothes to bring. The time I went to Nepal, it was Spring of 2014, sleeved clothes were a big help. and Since it was cool, I never sweat a lot, so its ok to use clothes several times. No time for arte arte.
convertible pants to shorts. very ideal to bring, because personally, i only carry clothes good for 10-12 days for  a month journey. Usually, i just wash  the light ones along the way, or just donate or leave them behind, to free up some space for souvenir shirts =)
convertible pants to shorts. very ideal to bring, because personally, i only carry clothes good for 10-12 days , for a month journey. Usually, i just wash the light ones along the way, or just donate or leave them behind, to free up some space for souvenir shirts =)
Rolled underwear, placed inside a sipped fabric pouch, which also serves as my pillow. I don't carry a neck pillow anymore since it uses up a lot of my bag.
Rolled underwear, placed inside a zipped fabric pouch, which also serves as my pillow. I don’t carry a neck pillow anymore since it uses up a lot of my bag.
quick dry gym towel 12" x 24"  , and a quick dry face towel.
quick dry gym towel 12″ x 24″ , and a small quick dry face towel. But i rarely use the gym towel, the small one is already enough for me
My passport, a small pouch for documents , and a tiny pen. Always carry a pen when traveling. More often, you have to fill up some forms for international airports.  Also, I carry with my a small notebook for expense tracking, and also just for taking notes of foreign sounding name of food,.
My passport, a small pouch for documents , and a tiny pen. Always carry a pen when traveling. More often, you have to fill up some forms for international airports.
Also, I carry with me a small notebook for expense tracking, and also just for taking notes of foreign sounding name of things I encounter.  Another thing, it is recommended to keep a few photocopies of your passport. Leave one on your big bag, one on your handcarry sling , and also if you have companions, give one copy to them, just for safety.
padlocks always come handy for backpackers. usually dorms have lockers  but you have to rent a lockset if you do not have one.
padlocks always come handy for backpackers. usually dorms have lockers but you have to rent a lockset if you do not have one.    The yellow triangles  are folded plastic bag , just in case i need some.
Mini Sewing Kit.
Mini Sewing Kit. Though i never used this so far. But the pins and mini scissor has been a help.
My Toiletry pouch. just around 7"x7".   I usually carry toiletries in sachets (shampoos, deo) so it lessens my  load as i consume it. Wet tissues are always refreshing, especially when visiting hot humid areas.
My Toiletry pouch. just around 7″x7″.
I usually carry toiletries in sachets (shampoos, deo) so it lessens my load as i consume it. A small bottle of Sunblock spf 50. a sachet of insect repellant. etc
Wet tissues are always refreshing, especially when visiting hot humid areas.
Anti microbial socks ( odorless) which can be used more than once.
Anti microbial socks ( odorless) which can be used more than once.
mini tripod. monopod
mini tripod. monopod. The big tripods are not allowed for airline hand. When I backpack, I never purchase check in luggage, to save on ticket cost. 1 backpack is just enough with a month journey for me.  My Monopod got stolen by the way, when I was in Agra. =(
medicine pouch. tummy aches, irritable bowel , Vitamins, and nasal allergy spray.
medicine pouch. tummy aches, irritable bowel , Vitamins, and nasal allergy spray.
invest in a good compact universal adaptor
invest in a good compact universal adaptor
As a solo backpacker, I really make an effort to do research before hand. I also study the locations of the sites I want to visit, and If it walkable from a train station or a famous landmark accessible by cheap public transpo. Taxi is always my last option. =)  As seen in this photo , I print outed out walking maps from  google, which was really helpful, and also easier for locals to assist you with directions.  Lucky if you get to have a real map for free. But usually, google maps area OK.  Also as shown, print out my online tickets , and at the back of it, I print the hostel booking i have in that area of destination, to save up paper.
As a solo backpacker, I really make an effort to do research before hand. I also study the locations of the sites I want to visit, and If it is walkable from a certain train station or a famous landmark accessible by cheap public transpo. Taxi is always my last option. =) As seen in this photo , I print out walking maps from maps.google.com , which is really helpful, and also easier for locals you ask along the way to assist with directions. Lucky if you get to have a real city map for free. But usually, google maps are already OK.   Google Maps application for android would be more ideal , if you have data plan with you when in travel.
Also as shown, I print out online tickets , and at the back of it, I print the hostel booking i have in that area of destination, to save up paper.

So far, these are my usual travel essentials , which could fit into a 45 L carry on backpack , good for a month journey .  Traveling light has always been my priority, and  I do not  bring laptop, my wifi ready smartphone is already enough. I also do not bring a professional’s DSLR, just one high res. Digital Camera.

Do you have other travel essentials in mind? Feel free to add up some items you carry , that are not on my list. Your thoughts are welcome =)

Solo Backpacking Essentials

I always had this fondness for solo backpacking, and I am fully aware of the consequences and risks of traveling alone, especially on foreign land where everything is relatively unfamiliar. As such, I always make a point to prepare my thoughts and do a lot of readings and inquiries before I the trip. Here are my basic preparations. Hope this would help.

1. Research .
-Read blogs . I prefer inquiring on blogs and personal accounts of experienced backpackers who already traveled my eyed destination. rather than just reading wikipedia and travel websites.
– Know the route . Steps in Border crossing. Airport to city center transportation . know where the backpackers area is. download google map,, use walking direction tools just to have an idea.
– Research on country specific entry Visa , if applicable.
– know which tourist spots are worthy of a visit, because you don’t really have to see everything. Read a bit of history of the place. You will appreciate your visiting experience more when you know what made it happen.

2. Exchange currency ahead of time. especially when traveling by land, since border crossings and bus transportation require local bills . If u use dollars, you might not get any change.

3. A backpack of basic essentials.
– Pack lite . If you are traveling for a month, pack clothes that is good for 2 weeks. You can just have them washed at the middle of your trip . Some backpackers Ive met only brings very few clothes, and prefer to buy cheap ones at their destination.
– cargo pants and Cargo shorts . preferably dark colors so it wont get dirty easily.
– Bring a small , quick dry towel. Bath Towels are usually available with the hostels . If not, then you just have to make full use of what you have.
– Bring a small pillow ,preferably a neck pillow, which is very helpful especially on bus trips.
– medicine pack. particularly for tummy upset and pain relievers.
– sun block and Anti mosquito lotion – small bottle or sachet (because 100 ml bottles and up , might be confiscated in the airport )
–
4. Comfortable footwear.
1 pair of rubber shoes , preferably the one you use often. New shoes might give you blisters which can be very hassle.
I don’t bring slippers anymore, I prefer to buy them on markets , if necessary .

5. A wifi enabled – smart phone . not only for communication ,, but more for researches and google mapping by the time you get there. Hotels usually have wifi for guests .

– end of list –

Can anyone make recommendations on how you prepare your trips ?