vacationer’s tales
an exclusive interview with Gul Panag
How often do you make travel plans as your New Year’s resolution and end up
being buried in the burden of responsibilities? Set yourself free and travel like
there is no tomorrow! Wondering how? Simply ask and follow the tips from the
avid traveller and actress Gul Panag, as we take the globetrotter in her for a long
ride to explore her fascinating travel journeys.
1. What does travel mean to Gul Panag?
Travel is a way of life. My father was in the army and I've lived in many different places across
the world as a child, which could explain my nomadic leanings!
2. You are a wanderer – what’s your favourite route in India and why?
The Delhi-Leh stretch is really one of my favourite places. I try to drive or ride that stretch as
often as I can. I love the dramatic changes in scenery, from the urban sprawl of the plains to the
greenery of the Himalayan foothills right into Himachal Pradesh, and then the absolute
barrenness post-Rohtang Pass. The desolate Keylong-Upshi valley stretch, right till you enter
Nubra valley is, to me, the most beautiful drive in the world.
3. Bike, Public Transport or Car, how do you like travelling in an alien city?
Bike or car usually, and being so passionate about fitness I've often explored the more
walk-able, safer cities with a run ...it's a great way of soaking in the ambience and also keeping
your fitness commitments!
4. One place that leaves you with no words?
So many really... I am the quintessential traveller! I love the untouched beauty of a place like Leh
Ladakh or the Andaman... and I also love the quaint feel of European towns like Bruges or enjoy
the buzz of London… It’s all very distinct.
5. We have seen your amazing explorer videos. Can you tell our readers one
essential element for video making?
It's like making a film and you have to get it all together from great footage, concept, script to
edit and sound. You have to get great footage that can tell the story. I've got a camera that sits
on top of the Mahindra vehicle we've recreated specifically for such journeys, to film all that
happens enroute. It was particularly great for the Sach pass trip we did recently capturing the
very testing road challenges we faced. Then there's the script and the editing of the video
should always be done well, it all has to come together to create the final product and that
matters the most.