Nirvana Unfiltered: Bro-cation Edition!

The rhythmic clatter of the memu train set the trip from Kottayam at 5:00 pm. By 7 pm, we stepped down at Ernakulam South. We went straight to LuLu Mall, a glittering temple of consumerism and embrace. Then the tantalizing aroma of MRA Edappally's drew us to their place and we had legendary Spicy Alfaham. On reaching back at Ernakulam Station, we all were struck into Portugal vs. Ghana, a fiery clash, clung to every tackle, every near miss, hearts pounding like drums. And then, in a moment, Ronaldo, the living legend, stepped up for a penalty. A collective breath held, and then, boom! The ball rocketed into the net, We erupted in cheers, and a chorus of joy echoed through the platform. As the last echoes of our celebration faded, reality beckoned. With adrenaline still surging, we boarded the 11:30 PM train to Mangalore.

Mangalore woke us with the aroma of Masala dosas and Poori masala, the perfect fuel for our day two conquest – the verdant peaks of Chikmagalur. Our bus transformed into a mobile party palace, reverberating with music and laughter as we devoured the scenery, each bend revealing a fresh canvas of nature's artistry. By afternoon, we reached atop 360° viewpoint in Chikmagalur all by watching the scenic beauty of the hills in GawdaJi's jeep. After the tiring trek & photo capture from there next, we set off to Baba-Budangiri Hills. Baba-Budangiri's legendary steps beckoned, promising breathtaking views and sweaty satisfaction. And with our local hero GawdaJi at the wheel of his trusty offroad jeep, we embarked on a heart-pounding journey through winding paths and dusty trails. GawdaJi navigated the terrain like a mountain goat, leaving us wide-eyed and exhilarated. Back in Chikmagaluru, a hearty dinner refueled us for the next leg – a night bus ride to the mystical Dandeli. But adventure never sleeps, and somewhere between dark forests and star-dusted skies, we stopped to celebrate Cheera's birthday! Cake and laughter echoed through the dense Karnataka forest, a midnight serenade in the heart of nature's embrace.

Dandeli welcomed us with the gentle gurgle of its river, the morning mist clinging to the lush forest. Our riverside resort, a haven of swaying palms and vibrant bougainvillea, became our launchpad for aquatic adventures. After a breakfast fueled by fresh air and anticipation, we set off to explore some adventure watersports. Raft boats sliced through the river's heart. Laughter mingled with splashes as we paddled, navigated mini-rapids, and finally surrendered to the thrill of jumping into the cool embrace of the water. Kayaking added a touch of serene solitude. And the true joy arrived with a collective plunge when our bodies formed a joyous huddle in the refreshing depths. On back to our resort, Water polo battles were fought with epic splashes and playful strategies, punctuated by cheers and groans. As the sun dipped below the tree line, the poolside transformed into a pulsing disco wonderland. Music throbbed as we danced like nobody was watching. It was a great experience to cherish forever. Then the songs & stories cloaked under the flaming campfire, and laughter echoed through the fog. Later sleep claimed most of us early that night but for me & Tetan, it was Argentina vs. Mexico before sleep. It was almost early morning when the match got over, I makeshift the sunbed by the pool to my sleeping bed.

Dawn broke over Goa, painting the sky in hues yellow. We, however, embraced the sleep deprivation, our bodies still recharging for the adventures ahead. Breakfast on the road from South Goa fueled our journey north, traffic jams and detours testing our patience but not our excitement. By afternoon, North Goa welcomed us with open arms. After a quick pit stop at our resort, we hopped on rusty scooters, transforming into modern-day conquistadors ready to explore. Chapora Fort, with its windswept ramparts and whispers of Bollywood lore, became our first conquest. Next, Vagator Beach unfolded like a turquoise dream, waves crashing along with the soundtrack of our laughter. Next, we set off to Anjuna Beach, where the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows that chased us down bustling shopping streets. Explored Calangute and Candolim, with their neon lights and kaleidoscopic stalls. Baga Beach morphed into a pulsating dance floor, pubs our stages, and the music our fuel. We put on new steps under glittering disco balls, swayed to Bollywood beats, and danced till the stars got off. As dawn reclaimed the night, we stumbled back to the resort, limbs tired but spirits soaring. Sleep claimed us like a long-lost friend, dreams filled with shimmering beaches and rhythms.

Dawned over Goa, with an English breakfast. Later to Old Goa, where its ancient churches whisper tales of colonial grandeur. We wandered through sun-dappled courtyards, marveling at intricate facades and stained-glass stories. South Goa's ancient landmarks followed, each stone a silent witness to centuries of history. The colorful markets of Goa overflowed with vibrant trinkets and tempting souvenirs. Each purchase became a tiny souvenir of sun-kissed beaches, pulsating nights, and the quiet beauty of ancient stones. Bidding farewell to Goa was bittersweet, as we left its magnetic energy behind. Colva Beach, kissed by the setting sun, became our final chapter. We walked barefoot on its golden sand, the rhythmic whisper of the waves a lullaby to our tired souls.

Mangalore greeted us early the next morning, with a warm embrace. Trains, once again, became our chariots, carrying us back to Kottayam. A slight detour at Shoranur, a change of trains, and finally, Kottayam welcomed us with the familiar sight of evening hustle. Here concludes a soul-warming trip, a heart full of memories, and a camera brimming with stories.