the light baggage

Just a stone's throw away from Bengaluru and Kolar, tucked in the serene folds of the Kolar District, lies a land that feels as though it’s been pulled straight out of a fantastical storybook. The Rock Garden at Seethagudda is a mystical wonder that beckons explorers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. With its captivating natural formations, remnants of ancient civilizations, and breathtaking vistas, it offers a glimpse into the past like no other place in Karnataka. Unveiling the Magic of Seethagudda Once the site of an ancient fort, Seethagudda is now a hidden archaeological treasure. Its most intriguing feature lies in the  pyramidical rock formations  that stand tall near a tranquil water body. These oddly shaped rocks, sculpted by the forces of nature over millennia, evoke an almost otherworldly feeling as you make your way through the landscape. The air here seems thick with a sense of ancient energy, and every corner you turn presents a new opportunity to g...

Overview: Nestled in Bengaluru, Gombeyamane stands as a testament to centuries of sculpting tradition, seamlessly blending time-honored artistry with modern innovation. Founded in 2017 by M Sridhar Murthy, a master sculptor with deep familial roots in the craft, this artistic space has become a hub for sculpting enthusiasts, artisans, and admirers alike. With a lineage that traces back over 200 years, Sridhar’s family has played a significant role in shaping India’s artistic heritage, contributing to the courts of Mysuru, Vijayanagara, and even Tipu Sultan. A Legacy Carved in Stone Sridhar Murthy hails from Shikaripur in Shivamogga district, where his great-grandfather, Thippaji, gained recognition for his artistic talent at a young age. Family tales suggest that Tipu Sultan himself commissioned a portrait from Thippaji, impressed by his ability to capture regal grandeur. Over the generations, this passion for sculpting continued, with Sridhar’s father, Shilpi Kashinath, ear...

Overview: Tucked away in the lush greenery near Denkanikottai, just a short drive from Bangalore, lies a retreat unlike any other—Thathachi Manai. Spread across 6.5 acres of serene farmland, this rustic paradise is not just about nature and relaxation; it’s also home to a fascinating collection of fossils from across the world, carefully preserved by Anand David, a passionate collector and seasoned traveler. A Collector of Time Itself Anand David, the founder-director of the Management Foundation for Organisation Research and Development, has spent over 20 years traveling across 81 countries for his work as a management consultant. But along the way, he developed an unusual passion—collecting fossils. His journey into paleontology began serendipitously in Kathmandu, Nepal, where he stumbled upon a seemingly ordinary stone being sold by a street vendor. Upon cracking it open, he discovered a fossilized marine mollusk, marking the start of a lifelong quest to uncover the secrets of the p...