Udaipur is world-famous for its majestic palaces and bustling lakeside ghats, but if you’ve lived here long enough, you know that finding a truly peaceful corner can sometimes be a challenge. In my latest episode of Coffee with Kiger, I decided to move away from the city center and explore the quieter side of town: Sector 14.
What I found was a total hidden gem that even many locals are missing out on.
The Location: A Lakeside Secret
Situated right opposite the serene Nella Pond, Coffee
Addiction is a sanctuary for anyone looking to escape the noise. While
most people flock to Fatehsagar or Lake Pichola, Nella Pond remains one of the
most underrated and less-traveled spots in Udaipur. It’s raw, it’s quiet, and
it provides the perfect backdrop for a slow afternoon.
We all love a good plate of Chhole Bhature, but have you ever wondered how this dish became an Indian staple? In my latest food exploration, I visited Gwalia Food Outlet to see if their preparation lives up to the hype. At a humble ₹160 per plate, I found a dish that wasn't just food—it was a history lesson.
A Bite of History: From Mughals to Delhi
Most people associate Chhole Bhature with Punjabi cuisine, but the history is much more layered:
The Mughal Connection: Interestingly, the origins of Chhole are often traced back to the Mughal era, brought to the heart of India by royal kitchens.
The Pioneers: While Peshari Lal Lamba (of the famous Kwality restaurant) is credited with making the dish a commercial sensation, it was Sitaram Diwanchand who truly popularized the specific pairing of spicy Chhole with fluffy Bhaturas.
The Gwalia Experience
How does Gwalia stand up against the legendary Sitaram Diwanchand of Delhi? Here is my breakdown:
The Bhaturas: Moderate in size but incredibly soft. One plate is hearty enough for 1-2 people depending on your appetite.
The Chhole: This was the surprise. Unlike the heavy, oil-laden versions found at local stalls, Gwalia’s Chhole are less oily and packed with deep, authentic flavors.
The Verdict: While they reminded me of the Delhi style, I found them slightly more tasty and refined.
Watch the Full Review
I’ve captured the steam, the spice, and the stories in my latest YouTube video. Watch it here to see the textures for yourself:
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a plate that balances history with health (relatively!) and flavor, Gwalia is a must-visit. It’s a ₹160 investment that pays off in every bite.
Have you tried Gwalia yet? Or are you a die-hard Sitaram Diwanchand fan? Let me know in the comments!
Date: January 14, 2026Location: Shree Ayyappa Swami Temple
The air around the Shree Ayyappa Swami Temple on January 14th was thick with the scent of camphor and the collective energy of thousands of devotees. Being the second day of the 2026 Makaravilakku Mahotsavam, the atmosphere was electric. I arrived with my camera, hoping to capture the essence of the festivities, but what I witnessed was beyond words.
In this post, I’m sharing the four traditional dance programs that defined the evening—a true testament to human strength and spiritual fervor.
1. The Pulse of the Earth: The Spirit of the Drums
The evening commenced with a percussion-heavy performance. The rhythm of the drums wasn't just heard; it was felt in the chest. Every beat seemed to synchronize with the heartbeat of the crowd. The dancers moved with a raw, primal energy that perfectly captured the "spirit of the drums."
2. Precision in Motion: The Steel Staff Dance
The second act moved from power to precision. The dancer handled long steel staffs with such fluidity that they looked like extensions of his own arms. The clinking of the metal against the temple floor added a unique melody to the performance, showcasing a level of concentration that only years of practice can achieve.
3. A Feat of Strength: The Decorated Bamboo
Perhaps one of the most physically demanding segments was the third dance. A massive, heavily decorated bamboo structure was tied to the dancer’s waist. Balancing this towering weight while performing intricate steps is a feat of balance that left many in the audience gasping. It was a beautiful blend of artistry and sheer physical might.
4. The Grand Finale: The Fire Dance (Agni Nrittam)
As the night deepened, the crowd grew hushed. This was the moment everyone had been anxiously waiting for. The dancer emerged with dozens of flaming torches tied around his waist.
As he began to spin and leap, the flames created a halo of light against the dark temple backdrop. He danced with a fierce intensity, his movements fueled by what can only be described as divine energy. For those few minutes, not a single eye blinked. It was a spectacle of fire and faith that I will never forget
Watch the Full Highlights Below:
I have compiled the footage of these four incredible performances into a single video. You can watch the full journey here:
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Final Thoughts
The Makaravilakku season is more than just a festival; it is a reminder of our rich cultural heritage and the power of devotion. If you ever get the chance to witness these temple arts in person, do not miss it.
Did you attend the 2026 festivities? Which of these performances was your favorite? Let’s discuss in the comments below!
While everyone crowds around Lake Pichola and Fatehsagar, there is a massive, serene, and historic lake just a short drive away that most tourists completely miss. Welcome to Uday Sagar Lake, a true hidden gem of Rajasthan.
In this video, I take you through the "road less traveled." We explore the lush gardens, the massive parking area (perfect for road trips!), and the incredible 360-degree views of the water. But the real secret? The Uday Sagar Dam and its hidden waterfalls.
From ancient temples to the powerful water channels that irrigate the surrounding greenery, this is a side of the City of Lakes you’ve never seen before.
๐ Location: Uday Sagar Lake, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
๐ How to get there: Watch at 01:14 for the Google Maps guide!
my first cup of Zidella Herbals Slimming Blend Herbal Tea For Weight Loss and attending the first wedding of this season, but will I be able to attend it? I don't go out without this thing.
It was past midnight, and the hunger hit hard. I was
scrolling through the food apps when I saw it: chilli garlic NOODLES
available for delivery from Wow! Momo!
In this video, I try out the famous Wow! Momo’s chilli
garlic Noodles for the very first time as a late-night midnight snack.
Did this surprise delivery save my life? Was it worth ordering food that late?
And most importantly, how do these new noodles actually taste?
Watch to see my honest first impressions, the unboxing, and
the final verdict on the ultimate midnight craving fix!
One of the
most memorable dining experience of eating this Popular Punjabi dish :- Chhola Bhatura
at Apsara Hotel in Bhilwara,
With a
right mix of spices in Chickpeas and feather light Bhaturas, this is a good
dish to start your day, brunch or evening meal.
Prompt
service and hygienic environment will make your heart long for this place.
Highly recommended,
with only one shortcoming, it is situated in a heart of a busy market so a
proper parking spot is difficult to find, yet it is worth parking a few meters
away and walking to this place.
