Crispy Funny Child https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com Squaryum's Travel Blog Sat, 25 Jul 2026 08:47:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/cropped-Mini-Logo-32x32.png Crispy Funny Child https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com 32 32 Stay In Mandalchan Hotel https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/stay-in-mandalchan-hotel/ Sat, 25 Jul 2026 07:13:51 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1352

Stay In Mandalchan Hotel

Leh, Ladakh

Srinagar Ladakh Highway:

It is a passage connecting Kashmir & Ladakh.

Srinagar is the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu is the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

After the independence of India in 1947, Jammu and Kashmir was a state of India. But, from 31st October, 2019, it became an union territory.

Srinagar Ladakh Highway is also known as NH1 and passes through Srinagar, Sonamarg, Drass, Zoji La Pass, Kargil & Leh.

Rose:

  • genus: Rosa
  • family: Rosaceae
  • subfamily: Rosoideae

They generally grow in temperate regions with direct sunlight for 6 hours to 8 hours, in well-drained sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. It requires a moderate temperature of around 18°C and 30°C.

Petunia:

  • genus: Petunia
  • family: Solanaceae
  • subfamily: Petunioideae

They generally grow in full sun, well-draining soil, and temperate climates. They require about 5 hours to 6 hours of sunlight, fertile, loose & well-drained soil and moderate watering.

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Journey To Maasai Mara https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/journey-to-maasai-mara/ Sun, 28 Jun 2026 07:55:56 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1321

Journey To Maasai Mara

Road Ride From Nairobi

Kianda School:

Opened in 1977 by Kianda Foundation.
Situated near Waiyaki Way & Kabasiran Avenue.

It is a private all-female day school.
Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic

Some members associated with the foundation of Kianda School:

  • Opus Dei (official spiritual advisor for Kianda Foundation)
  • Olga Marlin (one of the group of women who initiated the foundational work of the school)

Kianda Foundation

Eshtablished on 9th January, 1961, as a non-profit educational trust in Kenya. Their primary mission is to provide educational, professional, cultural and spiritual welfare to women & girls.

Olga Marlin

Born on 12th November, 1934, in New York, U.S.A., as Olga Emily Marlinn. She was an educator & author in Kenya. She wrote a book called To Africa With A Dream. She died in Nairobi, Kenya, on 5th January, 2025.

Old Kangemi Market

Around 60 years old, this market is situated in Nairobi, Kenya, along Waiyaki Way. It was famous for affordable, direct-from-farm products and secondhand clothings. It was demolished between later 2021 and early 2022 to clear the space for the construction of the multi-billion Nairobi Expressway along Waiyaki Way.

The New Kangemi Market was officially opened in late August 2022.

The Great Rift Valley

A massive valley formed around 20 to 25 million years ago, during the Miocene epoch, by the movement of 3 major tectonic plates:

  • Arabian
  • Nubian
  • Somali

This movement of the tectonic plates gave birth to the vast rift valley, which features many escarpments, active & dormant volcanoes, lakes & rivers. The boundaries of the valley are defined by:

Northern Boundary: Entering Kenya from southern Ethiopia via Omo River Basin and spans the entire length of Turkana Lake.
Eastern Boundary: Aberdare Range (formerly Sattima Range) & Nguruman Escarpment, separating the rift from Maasai Mara National Park of Kenya and Serengeti National Park of Tanzania.
Western Boundary: Mau Escarpment, Elgeyo Escarpment and Cherangani Hills.
Southern Boundary: From central Kenya through the Magadi Basin and runs into northern Tanzania, where it connects with Natron Lake.

Lakes

Lake Turkana Lake Logipi Lake Baringo Lake Bogoria
Lake Nakuru Lake Elementaita Lake Naivasha Lake Magadi

Hills, Mountains & Creaters

Mount Longonot Mount Suswa Menengai Crater Ngong Hills Mount Satima

Escarpments

Mau Escarpment Kikuyu Escarpment

Longonot Earth Station

A historic telecommunication complex in the Great Rift Valley, Kenya. It was opened in 1970 by President Jomo Kenyatta. It was the first satellite station for telecommunication & international broadcasting. Presently, it is defunct & abandoned and acts as a simple prominent landmark in the Great Rift Valley.

Location: south of Mount Longonot along Maai Mahiu-Narok Highway in Nakuru County

Joan Root

Born in 18th January, 1936, in Nairobi, Kenya, as Joan Wells-Thorpe, she was the daughter of Edmund Thorpe (a British banker, who immigrated to Kenya to start a new life and become a successful coffee planter) and Lilian (Johnnie) Thorpe. She was married to Alan Root and divorced in 1981.

Joan Root was a Kenyan conservationist, ecological activist and Oscar-nominated filmmaker. Some of her notable works include:

  • Mizma: Portrait of a Spring (1972)
  • Baobab: Portrait of a Tree (1973)
  • Balloon Safari Over Kilimanjaro (1975)
  • Mysterious Castles of Clay (1978)
  • Lights, Camera, Africa (1980)

In her later years, Joan Root devoted her life to saving Lake Naivasha from polution & illegal fishing, which is supposed to be the reason for her assassination. On 13th January, 2006, she was murdered in her own home in Lake Naivasha by 4 men, who came to her door with AK-47s. Still today it is a mystery that who were the as assassins and who paid them for the murder of Joan Root.

A documentary film is made on her life and tragic death, named as The Blood of the Rose, in 2009.

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Journey To Leh https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/journey-to-leh/ Sat, 20 Jun 2026 08:20:24 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1306

Journey To Leh

Air Ride From Kolkata

Kolkata

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport

Delhi

Indira Gandhi International Airport

Leh

Kushok Bakula Rimpoche Airport

Kolkata International Airport:

Also called Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

Indira Gandhi:

Born: 19th November, 1917
President of the Indian National Congress: 1959
Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting: 9th June, 1964 – 24th January, 1966
Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha): 26th August, 1964 – 23rd February, 1967
Union Minister of Home Affairs: 9th November, 1966 – 13th November, 1966 & 27th June, 1970 – 5th February, 1973
Prime Minister of India: 24th January, 1966 – 24th March, 1977 & 14th January, 1980 – 31st October, 1984
Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha): 1967 – 1984
Union Minister of External Affairs: 6th September, 1967 – 13th February, 1969 & 19th July, 1984 – 31 October, 1984
Union Minister of Finance: 17th July, 1969 – 27th June, 1970
Union Minister of Defence: 1st December, 1975 – 20th December, 1975 & 14th January, 1980 – 15th January, 1982

President of the Indian National Congress (Indira): 1978 – 1984
Died: 31st October, 1984 (assassination by two of Indira Gandhi‘s trusted Sikh bodyguards, Satwant Singh & Beant Singh, who shot her with their service weapons)

Delhi International Airport:

Previously known as Palam Airport, which was also called RAF Palam. It was eshtablished by the imperial British government, during the Second World War, in 1943. At that time, it served as a strategic ground for the Royal Air Force flights. In 1962, commercial passenger operations were relocated from Safdarjung Airport to Palam Airport. And on 2nd May, 1986, the airport was renamed as Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Safdarjung Airport:

First airport of Delhi, which was eshtablished as Willingdon Airfield, during British Raj, in 1929. It was renamed to Safdarjung Airport shortly after India‘s independence in 1947.

Willingdon Airfield

Named after Lord Willingdon (Freeman Thomas), who was the Viceroy & Governor-General of India from 18th April, 1931 – 18 April, 1936

Safdarjung Airport

Named after Safdar Jang (second Nawab of Oudh). He ruled from 19th March, 1739 to 5th October, 1754. He was succeeded by his son, Shuja-ud-Daula.

Leh Airport:

Known as Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport. Sometimes also spelled as Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. It is a domestic airport and military airfield of the Indian Air Force. It is named after the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, who was a Buddhist monk, whose Spituk Monastery is in vicinity to the airfield. It was eshtablished in 1961, as a military airstrip.

Ladakh:

It became a Union Territory of India on 31st October, 2019. On the same day, Jammu and Kashmir also became 2 separate Union Territories of India.
Boundary: Xinjiag of China to the north, Akasi Chin [administered by China and claimed by India] to the east, Tibet of China to the east, Pakistan-administered territory of Gilgit-Baltistan to the west, Jammu & Kashmir to the west and Himachal Pradesh to the south.
Capitals: Leh & Kargil
LAC 
(Line of Actual Control): A perceived line on the map, which separates Indian-controlled territories from China-controlled territories. It spans Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim & Arunachal Pradesh. It evolved after the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
LOC (Line of Control): It is a ceasefire line after the 1947-1948 war, which separates Indian-administered & Pakistani-administered parts of Jammu & Kashmir.

Languages Of Ladakh:

  • Ladakhi (locally known as Bhoti) [Sino-Tibetan Language]
  • Purgi
  • Balti
  • Dardic Languages (Shina & Brokskat)
  • Zangskari

Some Ladakhi Dialects:

  • Lehskat (Leh)
  • Shamskat (northwest)
  • Stotskat (Indus Valley)
  • Nubra

Some also speak English & Hindi.

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Bamburi Haller Park https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/bamburi-haller-park/ Fri, 15 May 2026 04:09:58 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1271

Bamburi Haller Park

Mombasa, Kenya

Majengo:

It is a ward in Mombasa, Kenya. It is divided between Kisauni & Mvita electoral constituencies.

Bamburi:

Combination of 2 local Bantu words (Ba means people & mburi means goat). It is a commercial, industrial, local electoral, administrative, tourist & residential area on the coast-line of Kenya along the Indian Ocean. It is famous for Haller Park.

Haller Park:

Also called Bamburi Haller Park.
Felix Mandl was a Croatian businessman and entrepreneur, who founded Bamburi Cement in Kenya, in 1951.

Born: 16th December, 1898
Died: 1993

He was born to a wealthy Jewish family.

The cement factory was situated around 12km north of Mombasa. Over the years, cement production grew from around 1.2 million tons to around 25 million tons. This resulted in the formation of inhospitable arid wasteland with brackish water. It was even impossible to grow any plants there. So, Bamburi Cement company, deciding to rehabitate the quarries, appointed Rene Haller as the manager of the garden department, in 1959.
At first, after planting around 26 plants, only 3 survived:

  1. Damas (Arabic name for Qalab in Somali) [Conocarpus lancifolius]
  2. Coconut Palm
  3. Casuarina (She-Oak or Australian Pine) [Casuarina equisetifolia]

Haller also introduced hundreds of red legged millipede, whose droppings (while feeding on the casuarina needles) made it easy to break down bacteria, resulting in the formation of rich layer of humus, allowing other plant species to grow. Slowly-slowly plants, shrubs & trees started to grow. Some for 10 years, 20 years, 30 years or more. Along with this, many animals also started to come. Some were brought here for safe living and protection from getting extinct.
Thus, Haller Park got developed, near the cement factory, becoming one of the famous tourist spot in Mombasa, Kenya. And it was named as Haller Park to remember the hard work doe by Rene Haller behind the development of this park.

Giraffe:

Tallest living terrestrial animal

  • Vertibrate
  • Mammal
  • class: Mammalia
  • order: Artiodactyla
  • family: Giraffidae
  • sub-family: Giraffinae
  • genus: Giraffa
  • food habit: Herbivores (generally feeds on Acacia [Babla in Bengali])

Monkey:

Identified by long tail, agility & tree-dwelling nature

  • Vertibrate
  • Mammal
  • class: Mammalia
  • order: Primates
  • food habit: Omnivores 

Monkeys are divided into:

  1. Old World Monkeys
  2. New World Monkeys

Old World Monkeys:

  • family: Cercopithecidae
  • sub-family: Cercopithecinae & Colobinae

New World Monkeys:

  • family: Atelidae, Cebidae, Aotidae, Pitheciidae & Callitrichidae

    Monitor Lizards:

    Lizards native to Africa, Asia & Oceania

    • Vertibrate
    • Reptiles
    • class: Reptilia
    • order: Squamata
    • sub-order: Anguimorpha
    • family: Varanidae
    • genus: Varanus
    • food habit: Carnivores

    Tortoise:

    Terrestrial animal with a dome-like shell on the back for protection against threats

    • Vertibrate
    • Reptile
    • class: Reptilia
    • order: Testudines
    • family: Testudinidae
    • sub-family: Testudinoidea
    • food habit: Herbivores

      Difference Between Tortoise & Turtles

      Tortoise Turtles
      Lives in dry lands Generally lives in water (swimming or wading)
      Heavy, high, rounded and dome-shaped shells Flatter, thinner and more streamlined shells
      Heavy, sturdy, elephant-like legs with clawed, club-like feet Webbed feet or flippers
      Mostly herbivores Mostly omnivores
      Lifespan of around 80 years to 150 years Lifespan of around 20 years to 40 years

      Crocodile:

      Large and semi-aquatic reptiles

      • Vertibrate
      • Reptiles
      • class: Reptilia
      • order: Crocodilia
      • family: Crocodylidae
      • sub-family: Crocodyloidea
      • genus: Crocodylus
      • food habit: Carnivores 

      Hippopotamus:

      Third largest terrestrial mammal

      • Vertibrate
      • Mammals
      • class: Mammalia
      • order: Artiodactyla
      • family: Hippopotamidae
      • genus: Hippopotamus
      • scientific name: Hippopotamus amphibius
      • food habit: Herbivores

      Cat:

      Small domesticated terrestrial mammal

      • Vertibrate
      • Mammals
      • class: Mammalia
      • order: Carnivora
      • family: Felidae
      • genus: Felis
      • scientific name: Felis catus
      • food habit: Carnivores

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      Nilkantha Palace https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/nilkantha-palace/ Sat, 02 May 2026 08:05:32 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1234

      Nilkantha Palace

      Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

      Other Names

      Imarat-i-Dilkhusha (heart-pleasing abode)

      Nilkanth Temple

      Akbar:

      Born: 15th October, 1542
      Father: Humayun
      Mother: Hamida Banu Begum

      Jalal-ud-Din Muhammad Akbar was the third Mughal emperor, who ruled from 11th February, 1556 to 27th October, 1605.  His father died, when he was very young. So, Bairam Khan, who later became commander-in-chief of the Mughal army, became the regent of Akbar.

      Died: 27th October, 1605

      Jodha Bai:

      Born: 1545
      Father: Raja Bharmal of Amer (later Kingdom of Jaipur)
      Mother: Rani Champavati Solanki

      Mariam-uz-Zamani, also known as Jodha Bai, was the chief consort & favourite wife of Akbar. She was a Hindu Rajput. After her marriage, she gave birth to twins, Hassan Mirza & Hussain Mirza, who died few days after their birth. Then, Salim was born, who later became Jahangir.

      Many people say that the name Jodha Bai is a misnomer in the history of India.

      Died: 19th May, 1623

      Nilkanth:

      Also spelled as Neelkanth. It is a Sanskrit word (meaning: blue throat). It refers to Lord Shiva because of his blue throat, which happened due to the effect of the poison, which he drank at the time of Samudra Manthan.

      Samudra Manthan:

      It is a Hindu mythological event, where Devas (Gods), led by Vishnu, & Asuras (Demons), led by Bali, churned the Ocean of Milk (Kshira Sagara) to obtain Amrit (nectar of immortality). 14 treasures were produced in this deadly battle, along with Halahala, which is a deadly poison and can destroy all creations of the universe.

      Lord Shiva:

      He drank the poison (Halahala) to save the universe, as a result of which his throat became blue.

      Other names of Lord Shiva:

      1. Mahadeva
      2. Shankara
      3. Bholenath
      4. Nataraja
      5. Maheshwara
      6. Rudra
      7. Pashupatinath
      8. Gangadhara
      9. Bhairava
      10. Mahakala
      11. Trilokesha
      12. Shambhu
      13. Pinakin

      Har Har Mahadev!!!

      Jai Shiv Shambhu!!!

      Mount Mandara:

      It is a sacred mountain situated near Bhagalpur, Bihar, India. It is around 750 feet tall granite mountain.

      Things used in Samudra Manthan:

      1. Mount Mandara (used as a churning rod)
      2. The mountain was placed on the back of Kurma (giant turtle avatar of Lord Vishnu)
      3. Vasuki (serpent king) used as a rope

      14 Treasures:

      Also known as 14 Ratnas.

      1. Halahal (Kalakuta)
      2. Kamadhenu (Surabhi): The divine wish-fulfilling cow, gifted to the sages.
      3. Uchchaihshravas: The divine white seven-headed horse, taken by Indra.
      4. Airavata: The majestic white elephant with multiple tusks, taken by Indra.
      5. Kaustubha Mani: The most precious gem, adorned by Lord Vishnu.
      6. Parijat: The divine tree with fragrant flowers, taken to Indralok.
      7. Rambha (Apsaras): Divine beauties and celestial nymphs, taken by the Devas.
      8. Lakshmi (Sri): The Goddess of Wealth & Prosperity, who married Lord Vishnu.
      9. Varuni (Madira): The Goddess of Wine & Intoxicating Drink, accepted by the Asuras.
      10. Chandra: The Moon, which was adorned by Lord Shiva.
      11. Panchajanya: The divine white conch shell, taken by Lord Vishnu.
      12. Sharanga: A powerful, unbreakable divine bow, given to Lord Vishnu.
      13. Dhanvantari: The Physician of the Gods and founder of Ayurveda.
      14. Amrita (Amrit): The nectar of immortality in a golden pot, brought by Dhanvantari.

      Mughal Empire

      Babur (1526 – 1530) Humayun (1530 – 1540 & 1555 – 1556) Akbar (1556 – 1605) Jahangir (1605 – 1627)
      Shah Jahan (1628 – 1658) Aurangzeb (1658 – 1707) Azam Shah (14th March, 170720th June, 1707) Bahadur Shah (1707 – 1712)

      Sur Empire, eshtablished by Sher Shah Suri, ruled from 1540 – 1555.

      After Bahadur Shah, the Mughal Empire started to decline. Most of the rulers were either puppet rulers or titular rulers, who were controlled by:

      1. Sayyid brothers
      2. Marathas
      3. British East India Company
      Jahandar Shah (1712 – 1713) first puppet emperor Farrukhsiyar (1713 – 1719) puppet emperor under the Sayyids of Barha
      Rafi ud-Darajat (28th February, 1719 – 6th June, 1719) puppet emperor under the Sayyids of Barha
      Shah Jahan II (6th June, 1719 – 17th September, 1719) puppet emperor under the Sayyids of Barha
      Muhammad Shah (1719 – 1748) puppet emperor under the Sayyids of Barha
      Ahmad Shah Bahadur (1748 – 1754) largely dominated by his mother and court factions
      Alamgir II (1754 – 1759) controlled by his vizier, Imad-ul-Mulk
      Shah Jahan III (1759 – 1760) controlled by Imad-ul-Mulk
      Shah Alam II (1760 – 1788 & 1788 – 1806) first controlled by regional powers and later by British East India Company
      Shah Jahan IV (31st July, 1788 – 11th October, 1788) puppet of Ghulam Kadir
      Akbar Shah II (1806 – 1837) puppet of British East India Company
      Bahadur Shah II (1837 – 1857) titular emperor

        Bahadur Shah II or Bahadur Shah Zafar or Abu Zafar Siraj-ud-din Muhammad was exiled to Rangoon, Burma, by the British, in October 1858, after being found guilty of treason, rebellion and aiding the Revolt of 1857 (Sepoy Mutiny). He died there, in Rangoon, in 1862

        One day, William Stephen Raikes Hodson, while riding his horse with his small troop, found a party carrying the 3 princes:

        1. Mirza Mughal (son of Bahadur Shah Zafar)
        2. Mirza Khizr Sultan (son of Bahadur Shah Zafar)
        3. Mirza Abu Bakr (grandson of Bahadur Shah Zafar)

        There was also a crowd of curious villagers and armed civilians. Hodson caught them and ordered the princes to get off the cart. The upper garments of the princes were stripped off and, then, shot with a gun (by Hodson) in front of the crowd. The signet ring, turquoise arm-bands, bejewelled swords and other jewels & valuables were pocketed by Hudson as trophies of war from the dead-bodies of the half-nacked princes. Then, the half-nacked bodies were thrown into the bullock-cart, taken to police station (kotwali) within the city, thrown on the ground and left exposed there for all to see. Thus, putting an end to the great Mughal Empire.

        Today, the gate near which the execution was performed, is known as Khooni Darwaza (meaning: Bloody Gate or Murder Gate). It is located near Delhi Gate, Delhi, India.

        Rangoon is now officially known as Yangon, which is in Mayanmar (formerly Burma).

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        Mombasa City Ride https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/mombasa-city-ride/ Sat, 11 Apr 2026 10:19:55 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1187

        Mombasa City Ride

        Mombasa, Kenya

        Kenya is divided into 47 counties. Each county is again divided into many sub-counties.

        Sub-Counties of Kwale County:

        • Matuga
        • Msambweni
        • Kinango
        • Lunga Lunga

        Sub-Counties of Mombasa County:

        • Changamwe
        • Jomvu
        • Kisauni
        • Likoni
        • Mvita
        • Nyali

        Likoni:

        It is one of the sub-counties of Mombasa County, situated to the south-west of Mombasa Island. It connects Mombasa Island with the main land via Likoni Ferry.

        Likoni Ferry:

        It provides a vital ferry service accross Likoni Channel, operated by Kenya Ferry Services (KFS). It began operating in 1937 and provides around 500 m ferry ride.

        Likoni Channel:

        It connects Kilindini Harbour with Indian Ocean.

        Mvita:

        It is another sub-county of Mombasa. It is also the traditional Swahili name for Mombasa and often referred to as Kisiwa cha Mvita.

        meaning: Island of War

        It covers the only CBD (Central Business District) of Mombasa, where Mombasa Tusks is located.

        Mombasa Tusks:

        It was erected in 1952 to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to the city. It symbolizes the entrance to the heart of the town and resemble elephant tusks, in the form of M (M for Mombasa), representing the ivory trade.
        It is situated over Moi Avenue, which was previously single lane. So, the first construction consisted of a single pair of tusks, which were made of wood & canvas. But, the municipal council, trying to make it more permanent and expanding Moi Avenue into 2 lanes, commissioned new set of 2 pairs of tusks, which are made of aluminium, with the help of Haji Suleman Haji Ladh & Sons (a well established local family company).
        It is situated near Uhuru Garden.

        Languages Of Kenya:

        Official language: Swahili (Kiswahili) & English
        On the whole, languages are divided into 2 parts.

        Major Language

        Bantu:

        • Kikuyu
        • Kamba
        • Luhya & Bukusu
        • Gusii
        • Meru
        • Mijikenda/Giriama

        Nilotic:

        • Dholuo
        • Kalenjin, Kipsigis & Nandi
        • Maasai
        • Turkana

        Cushitic:

        • Oromo, Borana & Orma
        • Somali

        Minor Language

        Afroasiatic Languages:

        • Cushitic & Rendille
        • Semitic & Arabic

        Indo-European:

        • Hindi
        • English

        Bantu:

        • Swahili

        Uhuru Garden:

        Uhuru is Swahili word (meaning: freedom). This word was mainly used during 20th century African Liberation Movements.
        Situated near Moi Avenue, this garden commemorates the independence of Kenya from British colonial rule.

        Liberation Movements Of Kenya:

        • Mau Mau (Kenya Land and Freedom Army): A militant, largely Kikuyu-based armed group, that waged a guerrilla war against British colonial forces and settlers (19521960).
        • Kenya African Union (KAU): Central political voice for independence under leaders, like Jomo Kenyatta.
        • Kenya African National Union (KANU): Primary political party, formed in 1960, negotiating independence.
        • Kenya African Democratic Union (KADU): A political party, formed in 1960, advocating for regional interests.

        Bats:

        Nocturnal mammal with true & sustained flight ability, they are essential ecological contributors. Bats are insectivores, frugivores or carnivores. They emit emitting high-frequency sounds to detect prey and fly around in darkness. They help in controlling pets, pollinating & dispersing seeds. There are around 1,400 species of bats. But, only 3 species are referred as vampire bats:

        1. Common Vampire Bat (Desmodus Rotundus)
        2. Hairy-legged Vampire Bat (Diphylla Ecaudata)
        3. White-winged Vampire Bat (Diaemus Youngi)

        But, bats are under threat of habitat loss and White-Nose Syndrome (WNS), which is a fungal disease, generally caused by Pseudogymnoascus Destructans.

        Madagascar:

        It is an island in Indian Ocean, officially known as Republic of Madagascar, located around 400 km away from southwestern coast of Africa, separated by Mozambique Channel, which is an arm of Indian Ocean.
        Madagascar was formed by the geological breakup of Gondwana (supercontinent), separating it from Africa (during Early Jurassic Period), around 170 million years ago, and later, splitting from Indian subcontinent, around 90 million years ago.
        Madagascar achieved full independence from France on 26th June, 1960.
        capital: Antananarivo

        Mombasa:

        It is said that the founding of Mombasa is associated with 2 rulers, Mwana Mkisi & Shehe Mvita, representing early Pre-Islamic and Islamic origins of the city. Out of the two, Mwana Mkisi is considered to be the original ancestor of Mombasa‘s oldest lineages within Thenashara Taifa (Twelve Nations). Families, who are associated with Thenashara Taifa, are still considered as the original inhabitants of the city.
        Vasco da Gama was the first known European to visit Mombasa, in 1498.
        Mombasa was the capital of British East Africa Protectorate from around 1887 to 1907. The capital was then shifted to Nairobi, which is still the capital of Kenya.

          Mombasa Old Port:

          This port was eshtablished around 900 AD as the key Swahili trading hub. And, by 12th century, it became internationally recognized port. Situated on the eastern side of Mombasa Island, adjacent to Fort Jesus, it operated as the main harbour for East African trade for centuries till 1890s, before the rise of Kilindini Harbour.

          Countries Of North Africa

          Morocco Algeria Tunisia
          Libya Egypt Sudan

          Countries Of West Africa

          Mauritania Mali Niger Nigeria
          Benin Togo Ghana Burkina Faso
          Ivory Coast Liberia Sierra Leone Guinea
          Guinea-Bissau Senegal Gambia Cape Verde

          Countries Of East Africa

          Eritrea Djibouti Ethiopia
          South Sudan Kenya Somalia
          Tanzania Zambia Mozambique
          Madagascar Mauritius Comoros
          Seychelles Uganda Rwanda
          Burundi Malawi Zimbabwe

          Countries Of Central Africa

          Chad Central African Republic Democratic Republic of the Comgo Angola
          Congo Gabon Equatorial Guinea Sao Tome and Principe

          Countries Of South Africa

          Namibia South Africa Lesotho Eswatini Botswana
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          Pine View Nursery https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/pine-view-nursery/ Sat, 14 Mar 2026 07:10:33 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1170

          Pine View Nursery

          Kalimpong, West Bengal

          Situated in Kalimpong Khasmahal, Pine View Nursery is a nursery, consisting of different plants, especially different varieties of cactus.

          Pine View Nursery was eshtablished in 1971 by late Mr. S. Pradhan, who is said to have left his initial orchid business to pursue his passion for breeding cacti. It is famous for housing one of Asia‘s largest private cactus collections and is often referred as Mohanji Nursery.

          Kanchenjunga can be viewed from here.

          Kalimpong Khasmahal:

          It is in Kalimpong district of West Bengal, India, near the main town. It has some popular sites, like Deolo Hill (famous for panoramic Kanchenjunga view), Gouripur House (once a favorite retreat of nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore) and other sites.

          Greenhouse:

          It is a house-like structure with transparent walls & roof (made of glass or plastic), specially designed to grow plants safely. It traps solar heat, which does not escape easily, keeping the plants in warm & optimal climate, protecting the plants from extreme cold weather.

          Nursery:

          It is a a place, where new plants, trees & shrubs are nurtured and grown under optimal and controlled condition, just like school nurseries, where kids are grown into good adults. Plants from such places are either sold to gardens, wholesales & individuals, or, used for reforestation & agriculture.

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          Travel To & Stay In Darad Diani Hotel https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/travel-to-stay-in-darad-diani-hotel/ Sat, 21 Feb 2026 07:36:18 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1092

          Travel To Ukunda & Stay In Darad Diani Hotel

          Ukunda, Kwale County, Kenya

          Port of Mombasa:

          The only international seaport in Kenya, which connects Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, South Sudan & Somalia via a multi-modal transport network. The history of the port dates back to 1st Century AD, especially from the ancient Arab and Persian dhow trading hub to East Africa‘s largest, modern deepwater port. Kilindini Harbour is one of the main parts of the port.

          Kilindini Harbour:

          Inaugurated in 1896, during the construction of Uganda Railway. During World War II, it served as the base of the British Eastern Fleet.

          47 Counties of Kenya

          Mombasa Kwale Kilifi Tana River Lamu
          Taita–Taveta Garissa Wajir Mandera Marsabit
          Isiolo Meru Tharaka-Nithi Embu Kitui
          Machakos Makueni Nyandarua Nyeri Kirinyaga
          Murang’a Kiambu Turkana West Pokot Samburu
          Trans-Nzoia Uasin Gishu Elgeyo-Marakwet Nandi Baringo
          Laikipia Nakuru Narok Kajiado Kericho
          Bomet Kakamega Vihiga Bungoma Busia
          Siaya Kisumu Homa Bay Migori Kisii
          Nyamira Nairobi

          Ukunda:

          It is a coastal town, in Kwale County, Kenya. It is adjacent to Diani Beach. It is located between Mombasa (to the north) & Lunga Lunga (to the south).

          Diani:

          It is a popular beach on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya. The beach stretches from Congo River (north) to Galu Beach (south).

          Lunga Lunga:

          It is a border town, in Kwale County, Kenya. It is located near Kenya‘s international border with Tanzania (another country of Africa).

          Dongo Kundu Bypass:

          It is also known as Mombasa Southern Bypass Highway. It was opened to public traffic in August 2024. It is roughly around 17.5 km, reducing the time of travel from Moi International Airport to Diani Beach, making tourist travel & transport faster than before.

          Port Reitz:

          It is a district of Mombasa, named after Lieutenant J. J. Reitz (Johannes Jacobus Reitz), famous for the site of Moi International Airport.

          J. J. Reitz:

          Born: 3rd May, 1801 in Cape Town, South Africa
          Joined British Royal Navy: 29th April, 1814
          He was promoted to lieutenant of British Royal Navy, in February 1824. The same year he died because of high fever, which was suspected as Malaria.

          Darad Diani Hotel:

          It is a hotel in Ukunda, Kenya. It is close to Diani Beach.
          Road Access: Diani Link Road

          Nomad Beach Bar & Restaurant:

          It is located on Diani Beach, Kenya, with a fabulous & stylish outside seating arrangement.
          Road access: Diani Beach Road

          Coast Dishes:

          A local restaurant, which is close to Darad Diani Hotel & Diani Beach.
          Road access: Diani Beach Road

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          Journey To Mombasa https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/journey-to-mombasa/ Sat, 31 Jan 2026 07:24:15 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1066

          Journey To Mombasa

          Air Ride From Kolkata

          Kolkata

          Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport

          Mumbai

          Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport

          Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose:

          Born: 23rd January, 1897
          5th Mayor of Calcutta (now Kolkata): 22nd August, 193015th April, 1931
          President of the Indian National Congress: 18th January, 193829th January, 1939
          President of the All India Forward Bloc: 22nd June, 193916th January, 1941
          Leader of Indian National Army: 4th July, 194318th August, 1945
          Died: 18th August, 1945 (it is said that he died due to Third-Degree Burns from aircrash)

          Kolkata International Airport:

          Eshtablished in 1924 as DumDum Airport.
          In 1995, it was renamed as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.

          Before the eshtablishment of this airport:
          28th December, 1910Baron de Caters and Jules Tyck conducted early demonstrations at present Tollygunge Club. Mrs. N.C. Sen (Mrinalini Sen), sister of the Maharaja of Cooch Behar, became the first Indian woman to fly in an aeroplane during these demonstrations.
          24th December, 1912Jules Tyck and Baron De Cators took off from and landed on the Calcutta Maidan.
          1920 – Empty area, near the construction of Victoria Memorial, was used as airbase for Italian aircraft.

          Mrinalini Sen:

          First Indian woman to fly in an aeroplane. She was a poet.
          Born: 3rd August, 1879
          Married to Raja of Paikpara at the age of 12 and widowed few years later.
          Married Nirmal Chandra Sen (Mr. N.C. Sen), after placing her brother on the throne of Paikpara, and became Mrs. N.C.Sen.
          She had 1 son, N.C. Sen (Jr), and 3 daughters, Srilata, Arati & Anjali.
          Died: 8th March, 1972

          Indian National Army (INA):

          Founded by Captain Mohan Singh, in 1942, using Indian prisoners of war from the British army, with Japanese support, to fight for India’s independence.
          From 1943, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose led INA, transforming it into a powerful force and eshtablishing Azad Hind Government.

          Slogan of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom.”

          Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Shivaji I):

          Born: 19th February, 1630
          Member of Bhonsle dynasty.
          Became Chhatrapati at Raigad Fort, in 1674.
          Father: Shahaji
          Mother: Jijabai
          Died: 3rd April, 1680

          Wives:
          Sai Bhonsale ​(married: 1640; died: 1659)​
          Soyarabai ​(married: 1650; died: 1681)​
          Putalabai ​(married: 1653; died: 1680)​
          Sakvarbai ​(married: 1657) [died in the captivity of Aurangzeb, when taken as a prisoner along with royal family members, following the death of Sambhaji I]​

          Mumbai International Airport:

          1928Juhu Aerodrome was established as first civil airport of India.
          1942Santa Cruz Airport (now Terminal 1) was built as Sahar Airport.
          1999 – renamed to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport.
          30th August, 2018 – renamed to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

          Independence day of Kenya:

          12th December, 1963, which is celebrated as Jamhuri Day

          Nairobi

          Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)

          Mombasa

          Moi International Airport (MIA)

          Jomo Kenyatta:

          Born: around 1894 (birth records among the Kikuyu were not kept at that time)
          Original Name: Kamau wa Mūigai
          Place Of Birth: Ngenda, British East Africa (now in Kenya)
          1938: Named as Jomo Kenyatta
          Member of Parliament for Gatundu: 1963 – 1978
          Chairman of the Kenya African National Union (KANU): 1961–1978
          Prime Minister of Kenya: 1st June, 1963 – 12th December, 1964
          1st President of Kenya: 12th December, 1964 – 22nd August, 1978
          Died: 22nd August, 1978

          Nairobi International Airport:

          9th March, 1958 – opened as Embakasi Airport.
          1978 – renamed as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
          Situated in Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya.

          Daniel arap Moi :

          Born: 2nd September, 1924
          Original Name: Toroitich Arap Moi
          around 1930s: Named as Daniel arap Moi (baptized into the Christian faith at a mission school)
          Member of Parliament: 5th December, 1963 – 20th December, 2002
          Minister for Home Affairs: 28th December, 1964 – 9th April, 1978
          3rd Vice President of Kenya: 5th January, 1967 – 22nd August, 1978
          Chairperson of the OAU: 24th June, 1981 – 6th June, 1983
          2nd President of Kenya: 22nd August, 1978 – 30th December, 2002 (longest-serving president of Kenya till date)
          Died: 4th February, 2020

          Mombasa International Airport:

          Eshtablished during the Second World War as Port Reitz Airport.
          1979 – renamed as Moi International Airport (MIA).
          Situated in Port Reitz, Mombasa, Kenya.

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          Patalpani Waterfall & Choral Dam https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/patalpani-waterfall-choral-dam/ Sat, 13 Dec 2025 04:21:31 +0000 https://www.crispyfunnychild.squaryum.com/?p=1044

          Patalpani Waterfall & Choral Dam

          Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India

          Indore:

          Cleanest city of Madhya Pradesh, India. The city is divided into:

          • Old Indore – Historic place, consisting of old & magnificient palaces, temples & market places
          • New Indore – Modern developing part, including some special areas like Super Corridor, VIjay Nagar, Pithampur & other such areas.

          Chappan Dukan (56 Shops) is a speciality of Indore, where 56 different vendors sell different varieties of Indian street foods.

          Patalpani Waterfall:

          A 91 meter (300 ft) waterfall on Choral River, situated in Mhow tehsil of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. The name is taken from 2 Hindi wordsPatal (underworld) & Pani (water).

          Nearest railway station: Patalpani Railway Station

          Choral Dam:

          Built on Choral River, it is famous for the scenic beauty & popular picnic spots near Mhow, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. It was a part of Choral River Valley Project, which began in 1978 and completed in 1993, providing water to irrigation.

          Mhow:

          Founded by Sir John Malcolm, in 1818.

          Full form: Military Headquarters Of War

          Historically, it served as a vital British cantonment. In 2003, it was officially renamed as Dr. Ambedkar Nagar, named after Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar), who was born here.  He was an Indian jurist, economist, social reformer & political leader, who was born on 14th April, 1891 and died on 6th December, 1956.

          Sir John Malcolm, who was born on 2nd May, 1769 and died on 30th May 1833, was a Madras Army officer, diplomat, colonial administrator, politician and historian.

          Today, Mhow is recognised as Indian Army cantonment area, consisting of infantry school, museum and other things related to Indian Army.

          Choral River:

          A tributary of Narmada River, which rises in the Vindhyachal Range, near Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. It provides different activities, like boating, picnic & other related activities, especially for those who love nature. It is famous for Choral Dam.

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