I’ve been way behind my posting schedule. It’s quite unlike me to delay an invite to a challenge. I’d like to start this post with an apology to Christina, from JUSTBLUEDUTCH, for participating in the Seven Day Nature Challenge — a month late. Christina lives in Kuwait with her Dutch husband and toddler daughter. She blogs about her expat life, travel, and life as a parent. Thanks for the invite, Christina. I wasn’t joking when I said I needed time. I do hope this post makes up for the lost time.
Have you ever visited a jungle? It breathes life. There’s no knowing, what’s lurking behind the tall blades of grass or hiding behind a dead tree. It’s hard to shake-off the feeling of being constantly watched. The feeling of haplessness is understandable.
As you walk deeper, into the dense thicket of trees, you might want to believe, you’re more familiar with your surroundings. The unease might slowly disappear. And the beads of perspiration might evaporate altogether. But, make no mistake. You have no natural ally here. Your ears aren’t attuned to the calls of distress. It’s easy to forget. You’re not the predator here. But, in all likelihood, you could be the prey.
After a few more anxious moments and wobbly, jelly feet — your eyes will stop seeing. And you will begin to watch with your ears. Every sound will have an vivid image. If you’re not careful — imagination might blind reality. And fear will cloud judgement. Is it dark already? Daylight was your last known companion. Perhaps, it’s a good time say goodbye and return to concrete jungle.
Here are the original set of rules for the Seven Day Nature Challenge. I’m going to tweak them a bit. Since, I don’t post more than thrice a week, I’ll reduce the number of days to three. I understand that many bloggers feel obligated to participate — once named. Instead, I’d like to invite anyone — who would like to participate — to take part in the challenge.
twobrownfeet 
What a wonderful post. I felt as though I was there with you. Stunning pictures as usual.
Thanks a bunch, Miriam! Comments like yours make me want to keep writing. 🙂
I’m so glad. You’re very good.
Thanks for making my day! 🙂
I love this post, Cheryl. I’ve been thinking about visiting the national parks in India for quite a while now. This post just makes me more eager to get over there 🙂
I’m glad you enjoyed reading the post, Kim. 🙂 I’ve been wanting to see the Jungle Book. And I’ve missed it. That’s what inspired this post. It is believed, Rudyard Kipling was inspired by the Nationals Parks in Pench or Kanha. All lie within the state of Madhya Pradesh, in India. 🙂 I’m not surprised – if he was.
I had heard that was his inspiration too! Hence why Pench is one of the national parks I’m keen to see. The Jungle Book looks like it would be good – like yourself though, I’m not sure if I’ve missed it or not! Hope you’re having a great week so far 🙂
Ah! I went hiking over the weekend. My fitness isn’t what I thought it to be. My legs are screaming in pain. Hehe! 🙂 Basil, on the other hand, laughs at my misery.
Haha! Hiking sounds great but the leg pain isn’t so much fun 🙂 I’m sure my fitness would let me down at the moment lol
Hehe! My new goal is to get fit. A week back, I was climbing staircases with the ‘Rocky’ tune in my head. Today, whilst climbing the stairs, all I could hear was my yelps. 🙂
We’ll get there. I’m sure of it!
Haha! That’s priceless, Cheryl! And yes, we’ll get there. Eventually lol 🙂
🙂 🙂
Can’t wait to go to Bhandavgarh . Loved your shots !
Thanks! Make sure your forest ranger doesn’t make it about the tiger. There’s lots more to see. 🙂
You have no idea how badly I want to spend serious amounts of time in a jungle. You’ve described the suspense of such settings perfectly.
Thanks, Josh! I wish I could stay in a forest or spend more time in a jungle. Although, it’s not a wise idea. The threats are real. Besides, most of these national parks do not allow visitors for more than an hour of safari time. It’s good for the animals. Helps protect them. That’s unless you’re a forest ranger or a conservationist. 🙂
Great photos – I often forget India has almost as much wild life as Africa.
And almost every state has a national park. I wonder if it’s possible to visit all of them. 🙂
Shamefully, I haven’t visited one and I’ve been right around India – next time
That sounds like a plan. 🙂 Summer is ideal for big cat sightings. Although, the heat will be unbearable. Most parks are closed between June-September due to the rains. October – February is perfect with the climate being cool. I must add, guided trips (the only way in the forest) tend to be a costly affair, but it’s worth every rupee spent. 🙂
Thanks!
🙂 🙂
Just amazingly done Cheryl..I love following this thread since I know you are going to bring us along into wonderful photo-journey of yours.
Beautiful place, the rugged beauty of the jungle comes alive and It would be an exciting adventure to get lost in the jungle.
Thank you for the mention. 🙂
Thank you, Christina! I tried hard to hurry with my other posts. Despite my best efforts, it took a month. Your encouragement means a lot. And I could do with the positivity of your words. Truly appreciate the invite to the challenge. 🙂
No worries..the most important thing is that you enjoyed doing it & not just for the sake of challenge. I am getting to know you more & more from your perspectives in Life, and the way you write your travel memoirs…that’s wonderful Cheryl.Its always my pleasure to cross paths with you.
Looking forward to see your feet getting more dirtier & brownier…( from travelling : )
Haha! Thank you, Christina! 🙂
A truly lovely post – loved your beautiful photos.
Thanks, Sue! I wish I could take credit for the photos. Your comment will make Basil very happy. 🙂
Awesome photos. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks, Don! 🙂
Amazing photographs! Love your blog!
Thank you so much for stopping by and showering us with praise.It means a lot. And we love your blog too! Just the other day, Basil and I were admiring your photography. I hope you are getting better with each passing day. Hoping for a speedy recovery!
Thank you so much, I am not getting worse, anyway. Back to work again. Have a happy weekend!
Good to hear! Have a good week.
Thank you!
Loved this post, great writing! Very atmospheric. Not to mention the awesome photos.
Thanks for making my day! It feels great to wake-up to positive feedback. 🙂
These shots are incredible. I wish I had that talent with my animal shots.
Thanks, Debbie! Basil had to struggle with many of these shots due to movement of the vehicle and low lighting (before sunrise). Was lucky to get a few good shots.
It’s hard to believe he managed that from a moving vehicle. Most of my moving vehicle shots are throw-aways. He must have a very steady hand.
He did click over 100 shots and that averages the odds of a good snap. Many were a waste. Some of these were shot after we pleaded the forest ranger to stop the vehicle. Back then, I was freezing (in Bandhavgarh) to worry if the shots came good or not. I think, photographers always have it tough. 🙂
omg, I’ve never been to a jungle (the urban jungle doesnt count lol 🙂 , but these images feel almost like I am there 🙂 such a great post…
Thanks, Alexandra! You should consider a trip. Your kids will love it! 🙂