My father would take me to math (hindu temple), when I was younger, for studies. After school, every evening and every morning on weekends he would take me there and teach me English. This last weekend I visited Ramdara Temple with some friends and their family, and as I reached there my childhood memory came alive. I felt the same way I felt when I used to visit math. So calm, peaceful and positive.
Ramdara temple is one of those little known picnic spots and temples among relocated people. Natives are well aware of this place and one such local suggested us this place which is only 20 KM from Mundhwa.
How to reach:
If you are visiting from Mundhwa or taking Mundhwa road then take Manjri route, set/start the destination/direction on GPS. Roads are narrow and at some point bit rough. Great opportunity for bikers to enjoy one day ride with fellow riders. Taking car? No worries, just make sure you are not going on weekends as you might find jam cause of narrow roads. We noticed only one car can drive on the road at a time. However, we chose Sunday and the route was pretty clear.
What about eateries and food?
You can bring your own picnic basket and enjoy lunch with family. On the way you will find many eateries and tea points. Just outside the temple where parking ends, you will find many local vendors selling vadapav, tea, sugarcane juice etc. I would suggest to take a tea/refreshment break and go straight to the destination without stopping as temple authorities are really strict about closing time. sticking to the food, buy fresh fruits and vegetables from the locals and please try peda; a person just outside the temple was selling it and we were lucky to buy one packet. It was yummy.
On your return you can eat dinner at Grand 11 restaurant. Items we liked were, hara bhara kebab, butter chicken, veg banjara and chicken lollipop. The restaurant is good, staff is polite and proactive.
Little about Temple:
The temple closes sharp at 5 P.M. and you are not even allowed to spend time at backyard, famous for old trees cool breeze. The backyard area gives mesmerizing view of temple on water. As the clock strikes 4:30 (P.M.), the security will start telling you to pack and leave. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and Parvati rebuilt by Dhundhi baba back in 70’s. Three sides of it is covered with green water. Just in front of the temple when you leave the backyard, a narrow path comes. Exit from there to take pictures of temple from front. Clicking pictures from there will give you perfect scenic click of the temple (as shown above).
The experience was pleasant and I am definitely visiting here next time on bike with my husband.
Himaani Khanna 