Rohan Gupta
Day 1: Discovering Taichung’s Colours
The journey began in Taoyuan, and from there, we travelled to Taichung to visit the famous Rainbow Village. This quaint settlement, adorned with whimsical murals and vibrant colours, felt like stepping into an artist’s dream. Each wall told a story, and the playful atmosphere was contagious. After immersing myself in this colourful wonderland, we checked into Taichung Dayi Laoye, a cozy retreat that offered a blend of traditional charm and modern comforts.
Day 2: The Tea Heritage of Nantou County
The lush landscapes of Nantou County were a stark contrast to Taichung’s urban vibe. Our first stop was the serene Tan Jia Lang Tea Garden, where we wandered through rows of verdant tea bushes and learned about the meticulous art of tea cultivation. The experience deepened at the Sonboling Tea Culture Centre, where we had a hands-on lesson in brewing the perfect cup of Taiwanese tea.
Later, we arrived at the Wyndham Sun Moon Lake Lili Hot Spring Hotel, a luxurious haven overlooking the tranquil Sun Moon Lake. The evening was reserved for unwinding, either soaking in the hotel’s hot springs or exploring the serene surroundings.
Day 3: Sun Moon Lake and Cultural Immersion
Day three was all about experiencing the splendour of Sun Moon Lake, a jewel of Taiwan. A boat tour revealed the lake’s serene beauty, framed by misty mountains. The ride on the cable car offered panoramic views, leaving me spellbound.
The journey continued at the Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village, where we delved into the history and traditions of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes. The distance was covered in a Cable Car, offering us splendid views of the scenery. The village showcased vibrant performances and detailed exhibits that celebrated their rich heritage.
The day ended with a visit to the Taiyi Ecological Leisure Farm, where the lush landscapes and serene atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Day 4: From Nantou to Taipei
After a delightful farm breakfast, we boarded the high-speed rail from Taichung to Taipei, a journey that was impressively swift and comfortable. Once in Taipei, we headed to the famed Forbidden City, a treasure trove of ancient Chinese artifacts. The intricate designs and fascinating history of the exhibits were mesmerizing.
A stop at the Jiji Wunchang Temple offered a moment of spiritual tranquillity. The day ended on a vibrant note with a stroll through the Raohe Street Night Market, where the lively atmosphere, colourful stalls, and tantalizing aromas showcased the essence of Taiwan’s street culture.
Day 5: Taipei’s Icons and Trails
The final day began with a visit to the iconic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a grand tribute to Taiwan’s history. From there, I explored the Rongjin Time Life Park and the artistic Songyan Cultural Park, each offering unique insights into the city’s cultural fabric.
A trek along the Xiangshan Trail rewarded me with stunning views of the Taipei skyline, capped by the towering Taipei 101. The observation deck provided a breathtaking perspective of the city, a fitting culmination to my Taiwan journey.
A Culinary Delight
Throughout my trip, I was amazed by the culinary diversity. Whether it was authentic Taiwanese flavours or familiar Indian dishes, Taiwan catered to every palate. For Indian food lovers, the variety was delightful, with restaurants offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options that felt like a taste of home.
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