The Travel Revolution of Our Era
Steps of Devotion: My Pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi | by Latha | CheQin.ai | May, 2025

Walking in the Night with Belief and a Heart Full of “Jai Mata Di”
Where Faith Begins to Walk
Some pilgrimages aren’t so much about where you’re going — they’re about what happens to you on the way there. And that’s exactly what I felt about Vaishno Devi. I’d heard tales, seen photographs, and even blogs, but nothing could have prepared me for what awaited me when I finally embarked on this journey nestled in the mountains of Jammu.
The Road to Katra
Katra, the town base, is where pilgrims from all over the nation arrive. The moment I got down from the train and onto its land, the very air seemed different. Lighter, perhaps. Or maybe it was just me, getting myself so worked up.
I had decided to remain close to the base camp, in a simple yet peaceful room that I discovered using cheQin.ai. It wasn’t extravagant, but it provided me with just what I required .The window view presented to me the hills in the distance, and I realized that I was about to be a part of something divine.
Starting the Climb
The trek to Vaishno Devi begins from Banganga and takes about 12 kilometers to cover. Some trek on foot, some on horseback, and others take helicopter rides or battery cars. I trekked.
It was dusk when I started. The sun had only just begun to set, and the mountain trail gradually brightened with fairy lights and the warm glow of fellow pilgrims. Chants of “Jai Mata Di” rang from each nook and corner — sometimes yelled with passion, sometimes spoken softly like a prayer.
Moments Along the Trail
The ascent itself was a rhythm — walk, rest, take a sip of water, and walk once more. It is not determination that keeps you going; it is the collective devotion. Everyone greeted one another at each tea stall with “Jai Mata Di.” Strangers shared biscuits, pain balm, or merely words of encouragement.
As darkness fell, I arrived at Ardhkuwari — the halfway station. It is said that Mata Vaishno Devi had spent nine months meditating in a cave here. The queue was long, but I didn’t complain. It allowed me time to stop, think, and be a part of the greater narrative that each pilgrim is a part of.
The Night Glow of Bhakti
Climbing during the night was something I’ll never forget. The cool breeze, the soft humming of devotional songs playing from speakers along the way, and the stars overhead — it all added up to something surreal.
Even with the physical exhaustion, something within me continued to drive me on. A woman next to me, a lot older and obviously in pain, continued to walk slowly, smiling with each step. “Mata ka bulawa aaya hai,” she said — meaning, “The Goddess has called.” That gave us all the motivation we needed.
Arrival at the Bhawan
When I finally arrived at the Bhawan (the central shrine), the world came to a standstill. All the pains in my legs, the perspiration on my back, the fatigue — they just vanished. The air was sharp and cold and the moment was all that I had envisioned.
After freshening up, I joined the line for darshan. The anticipation built slowly. When my turn came and I bowed before the sacred pindis, I didn’t say anything. I just closed my eyes, folded my hands and let the silence of the moment wash over me.
Coming Back Down
After darshan, I rested in a guesthouse for a couple of hours. The second walk back the next morning was easier. My mind was clearer and the blessings still fresh, so I walked slowly. The path seemed different in the light of day. I saw flowers pushing through railings, children laughing and monkeys sitting in trees watching us.
What I Carried Home
I didn’t arrive at Vaishno Devi with a bucket list of wishes. I arrived to see what faith in action felt like. And I left with something unexpected — a feeling of belonging to something greater than myself.
Vaishno Devi is not merely ascending a mountain. It’s about bearing the power of a thousand steps, the tales of strangers and the heat of a chant that binds millions.
If your journey one day brings you to Katra, take the ascent — not to witness a shrine, but to behold what surrender, strength and mutual devotion appear like in all their unadulterated beauty.
The Travel Revolution of Our Era
CheQin.ai Redefines Hotel Booking with Zero-Commission Model

CheQin.ai, an AI-powered hotel booking platform backed by EaseMyTrip, is redefining the hospitality industry with its groundbreaking zero-commission model. This innovative platform allows hotels to retain their revenue and reinvest in guest experiences, offering up to 25% savings on commissions.
The platform’s AI-driven real-time bargaining system simplifies the search for the best deal, negotiating on behalf of travelers to offer the five best live rates from hotels. With zero hidden fees, users can book with confidence, knowing they’ve secured the best value for their money. CheQin.ai’s curated approach ensures that travelers have access to the best accommodations while hoteliers benefit from increased visibility and direct bookings.
“Our goal is to make travel seamless, affordable, and transparent,” says Venu G, Founder & CEO, CheQin.ai.” By combining cutting-edge AI with a zero-commission model, we’re putting control back in the hands of both travelers and hoteliers.”
CheQin.ai has already made waves in India and is now expanding to international markets, including Singapore, Malaysia, and Europe. With over 100,000 premium hotels and handpicked private properties onboarded across several countries, the platform is quickly building a global footprint.
The Travel Revolution of Our Era
Exploring Rajasthan’s Summer 2025: A Savvy Traveler’s Guide with cheQin.ai | by harley | CheQin.ai | May, 2025

Sun-Kissed Splendor: Your Rajasthan Summer Beckons
Beating the Rajasthan Heat: A Summer 2025 Expedition with cheQin.ai
From dawn walks in Jaipur’s pink alleys to camel safaris in the Thar — my insider tips and savvy hotel bargains
I stepped off the train at Jaipur Junction on a sweltering June morning, the Pink City already shimmering under a relentless sun. Despite the soaring temperatures, my Rajasthan summer trip 2025 turned into one of my most memorable adventures — thanks in large part to cheQin.ai. Here’s how I navigated palace tours in Jaipur, lakefront evenings in Udaipur and Thar Desert safaris, all while scoring unbeatable hotel deals with transparent pricing and real-time bargaining.
Dawn at the Pink City
There’s something magical about Jaipur before the crowds arrive. I slipped into a local chai stall near Hawa Mahal just as the first rays warmed the pink sandstone facades. Exploring the City Palace’s hidden courtyards felt like stepping back in time and my phone buzzed with reminders of morning palace tours and elephant rides. Visiting Amber Fort at sunrise kept me one step ahead of the heat wave and wandering the Jantar Mantar grounds, I savored the thrill of discovery without the midday crowds.
Cool Comfort with cheQin.ai
By midday, the mercury topped 42 °C — time to check into my hotel. I opened cheQin.ai and posted my requirements (“air-conditioned room, rooftop pool, mid-range budget”). Within seconds, five hoteliers in Jaipur sent me their best offers. I compared special offers side by side — no hidden fees, just transparent pricing. With one tap, I confirmed my stay at a boutique haveli with a heritage-style courtyard for a bargain price. Booking hotels in Rajasthan has never been easier: no endless scrolling, just the top 5 lowest offers delivered to me in real time.
Lake Pichola Serenity
Leaving Jaipur’s bustling streets behind, I boarded a morning bus to Udaipur. The “Lake City” welcomed me with a gentle breeze as I drifted past the City Palace on a traditional boat. Sunset here is legendary — peach-hued skies reflecting off Lake Pichola and the City Palace walls glowing like molten gold. When it came time to find a lakeside hotel, I once again turned to cheQin.ai. A quick request landed me five offers from waterfront properties; I chose a heritage inn with balconies overlooking Jag Mandir. There’s nothing like sipping chilled lassi on a terrace as twilight descends.
Thar Desert Thrills
Next stop: the vast Thar Desert near Jaisalmer. I joined a small group for a camel safari, riding past ochre dunes undulating into the horizon. As the sun dipped below the sand sea, I watched a troupe of folk dancers perform around a crackling campfire. For accommodation, I posted a desert-camp request via cheQin.ai — options ranged from basic tents to luxury glamping domes. I opted for a canvas tent equipped with comfy beds and solar-lit pathways, all at a price that felt lighter than the desert breeze.
Rooftop Views in Jodhpur
By the time I reached Jodhpur, the “Blue City” was buzzing. Walking through narrow lanes painted in shades of indigo, I snapped photos of Uchchita Ni Haveli’s grand archways. As evening fell, I headed upstairs to a rooftop cafe overlooking Mehrangarh Fort — its imposing silhouette framed by fiery skies. When it was time to rest, I let cheQin.ai handle my hotel search: this time, I requested a room with a fort view and complimentary breakfast. In moments, I locked in a modern boutique hotel that offered both cityscape vistas and personalized service.
My Top Tips for a Rajasthan Summer Adventure
- Beat the heat by planning outdoor excursions early and saving indoor attractions or poolside relaxation for midday.
- Pack light breathable cotton clothing, sturdy walking shoes and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Stay connected with cheQin.ai for on-the-go hotel bargains — post your requirements and compare the top 5 lowest offers in seconds.
- Embrace local flavors: don’t miss kair sangri sabzi, pyaaz kachori and the sweetest ghewar in Pushkar.
- Book smart: leverage transparent pricing on cheQin.ai to avoid overpaying and focus on experiences, not endless deal-hunting.
Reflecting on My Rajasthan Journey
Traveling through Rajasthan’s sun-baked cities and dunes was an exercise in balancing adventure with comfort. cheQin.ai transformed how I booked hotels — real-time bargaining gave me confidence and control, while instant notifications kept my itinerary seamless. From pink palaces to starry desert nights, this summer trip exceeded every expectation. If you’re planning a Rajasthan adventure in 2025, let cheQin.ai handle your stay so you can focus on creating memories that last a lifetime.
The Travel Revolution of Our Era
Places to Visit in Gujarat: Rann of Kutch to Somnath Trip | by Ishika Explorer | CheQin.ai | May, 2025

Gujarat gave me sunsets, lions, spiritual vibes, and stories
Buckle Up: We’re Going to Gujarat (Yes, All of Us)
So here’s how it started. My family wanted a trip. My brain said, “Let’s not.” But my mouth said, “Sure, let’s go to Gujarat!” And just like that, we packed four bags, five water bottles, one charger (a terrible decision), and way too many snacks into our car and hit the road.
This wasn’t just any trip. It was my first full-fledged Gujarat adventure — featuring camels, temples, lions, salty deserts, and some very questionable detours. And somewhere in between all that, cheQin.ai made sure I didn’t lose my cool hunting for hotels.
First Stop: The White Desert, Rann of Kutch
Let’s begin with the Rann of Kutch. It’s white, it’s endless, and it’s basically what you’d get if the moon and a salt shaker had a baby.
We arrived just in time for sunset, which, by the way, is like watching the sun drop into a sea of powdered sugar. Kids ran wild (one almost licked the ground), and my parents were busy arguing whether that glowing thing in the distance was a mirage or a wedding.
Travel Tip: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a serious respect for salt. Also, no matter what your cousin says, white sneakers are not a good idea.
I booked a last-minute desert camp using cheQin.ai because my usual go-to apps were giving me overpriced options or the classic “sold out” message. With cheQin, I just posted what I needed, and boom — hotels started offering me deals. It was like eBay, but for beds.
Dwarka: Temples, Seas, and a Lot of Bhajans
Next up, Dwarka, the land of Krishna, sea breezes, and an alarmingly enthusiastic temple bell guy.
We visited the Dwarkadhish Temple early morning (because according to mom, blessings don’t count after 8 a.m.). The place was alive with chants, flowers, and a long queue of people who had all clearly skipped breakfast.
The beach nearby was a bonus. While the elders took photos pretending to walk into the ocean like movie stars, I discovered a vendor selling the best butter garlic corn I’ve ever had.
Travel Tip: Wear clothes that are easy to remove shoes from — you’ll be taking them off a lot. And pack snacks. God may be everywhere, but food stalls are not.
Gir Forest: Where Lions Roar and Humans Whisper
After temples, it was time for tigers — well, lions actually. Gir Forest is home to the Asiatic lion and, on our lucky day, a guide who spoke in poetic metaphors.
“If the jungle is a poem, the lion is the full stop,” he said.
Deep, right?
We hopped into a safari jeep at sunrise. My mom was convinced she saw a lion within five minutes (spoiler: it was a rock). But 30 minutes later, the real thing happened — a majestic lion walked right past us like he was on his morning commute.
I wanted to stay near the forest, but finding accommodation that wasn’t either too wild or wildly expensive was a task. That’s when I used cheQin.ai again. The best part? Hotels competed for my booking in real-time. I picked a lovely eco-stay that wasn’t even listed on other apps.
Travel Tip: Book safaris in advance. And bring binoculars unless you enjoy squinting at distant trees and pretending you saw something.
Somnath: Where the Vibes Are Immaculate
Last stop: Somnath. Spiritual energy, sea breeze, and a temple that looks like it was carved by gods with excellent taste.
After all the chaos of the road trip, Somnath felt like a reset button. The temple stands strong by the sea, its golden shikhara glowing in the sun. I sat by the shore, watching waves crash and uncles take group selfies like their lives depended on it.
cheQin.ai helped me again here. The app showed me multiple offers, I bargained (okay, I tapped a button and the app did the rest), and I got a clean hotel five minutes from the temple. No stress. Just peace.
Travel Tip: Evening aarti is a must. So is wearing comfy footwear you can slip on and off because temple steps are not designed for fashion.
Foodie Highlights: The Real Prasad
Let’s talk food, because Gujarat deserves applause.
- Fafda & Jalebi in the morning? Yes, please.
- Dhokla so soft it could double as a pillow.
- Kathiawadi thali that nearly knocked me into a food coma.
- And that buttermilk? It’s not a drink, it’s a survival tool.
The best meals weren’t fancy. They were roadside dhabas with three benches and a chai kettle that had seen more sunrises than I have.
The Family Drama (Of Course There Was Some)
No family trip is complete without at least one meltdown. We had ours in the parking lot of a petrol pump where my dad insisted we’d taken a wrong turn. Turns out, Google Maps was right (this time).
Then there was the time someone left the hotel key at a restaurant. And that moment my niece fed a biscuit to a langur and almost lost her entire lunchbox.
But these moments? They’re what made the trip.
What I Learned (Besides Where to Get the Best Jalebi)
Gujarat was more than I expected. It was colorful, chaotic, deeply spiritual, and full of personality. I expected a checklist of places. What I got was a collection of stories.
And honestly, having CheQin.ai as my silent sidekick made everything smoother. No endless hotel scrolling. No overpaying. Just posting what I needed and letting places come to me like, “Hey! Pick me!”
Final Thoughts: Go, But Bring Snacks and Patience
If you’re planning a trip to Gujarat, here’s what I’d say:
Don’t try to cover everything in 4 days. Space it out.
Be flexible. Sometimes the best spots aren’t on your list.
Use hotel tools that actually save you time. (Yes, cheQin.ai, I’m looking at you.)
Eat like your diet doesn’t exist.
And most importantly? Laugh at the chaos. Because that’s where the memories hide.
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