The World Cup fever seems to have died down a bit after the much awaited India-Pakistan match, or so you would think. Two wins in a row have raised hopes about India reaching to the top and dispelled any doubts fans had about India’s out of form batsmen and the struggling bowling line-up. This is the first time in decades that India has a team that does not boast of any star players like Gavaskar, Kapil Dev or the Tendulkar, Ganguly, Dravid trio.
This is all very interesting for the analysts and fans who can talk about stats endlessly. But for an average cricketing enthusiast like me, watching cricket was always an opportunity to learn about far away places like the Caribbean and South Africa. At that time, when there was no Internet, Cricket commentary was the major source of information about these places, its culture and history. I have heard of books! But the popular ones were mostly set in the US and Europe.
Cricket is watched by billions across the world and for these die-hard fans combining travel with the thrill of watching a live game can be an amazing experience. I will start with India, there numerous new grounds that have popped up in remote places and offer ample sightseeing opportunities along with the watching your favorite players in action. I guess this Himalayan destination is at the top of that list, until we have matches in Kashmir.
Dharamshala, India
At Stadium gates in Dharamshala
Located in the scenic state of Himachal Pradesh, this ground by itself is a sight to behold. The backdrop of snow clad mountains and the Tibetan monastery inspired architecture of the main pavilion and commentary box provide a unique unique design.
HPCA Stadium at Dharamshala
The main attraction here, of course, is the worship place and offices of his holiness the Dalai Lama. The city is peppered with various offices of the Tibetan Govevernment in Exile. You can stay at a hotel in Dharamshala or choose to stay on Kangra, which is a slightly bigger city. Dev Bhoomi, as Himachal is fondly called boasts of many temples. Staying in Kangra can help you cover a wide area and visit some famous tourist spots like Bir and Billing, known for some awesome valley views and as a drop-off point for gliders.
Jaipur, India
You cannot let this opportunity to visit the land of kings go to waste. A great weekend destination for people visiting Delhi, Jaipur offers a glimpse into India’s culturally and monetarily rich history from the Age of Maharajas.
Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds
Sawai Man Singh stadium has a seating capacity of 30,000 and is situated in the heart of the city. After a thrilling day of cricket, visitors can spend a couple more days exploring the world of Sawai Man Singh. Hawa Mahal, one of the most popular building in Jaipur boasts of unique architecture used by the builder to keep the living quarters air cooled with hundreds of windows and orifices to facilitate the flow of wind. Jaigarh and Amer forts are a must visit places to understand the majestic lifestyle of the kings and their way of living.
Bulawayo Athletic Club, Zimbabwe
Although Zimbabwe cricket team earned a test playing nation status in 1992, The Bulawayo Athletic Club hosted cricketers for a long time. The club was founded in 1894 and now has a seating capacity of 12,000.
Victoria Falls
Bulawayo is mainly known as a industrial province and boasts of country’s railway network hub. But for tourists and visitors, Bulawayo can just as easily become a hub for getting a look at Africa. Travel roughly 5 to 6 hours northwest to Hwange National Park and get a glimpse of the African wild. The park boasts of 100 mammal and 400 bird species including Lions, Zebras, Elephants, and smaller ones like African Wild Dogs and spotted hyenas.
But that is just one destination. You can use Bulawayo as your base for the visit to the magnificent Victoria Falls with your travel further north.
Sahara Park Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is steeped in history of navigators, explorers, and traders from the European countries on their way to India and the Far East. The Portuguese were the first to discover Cape Town and later was fought for by the Dutch and the British, until Britain gained control of the town and what is today, South Africa.
Table Mountain in Cape Town
Cape Town offers tourists scenic views from numerous mountain peaks looking over the Atlantic Ocean, with a pleasant climate all year round. But if you can plan something in January, you will get to witness the ‘Second New Year’ carnival Kaapse Klopse celebrated during this time.
Sabina Park, Jamaica
It is really difficult to choose one from the Caribbean islands. Sun, Sand, and Beaches. The roaring waves and the winds, the salty smell of the sea water are simply irresistible. That and there’s something about the Caribbean that just makes you swing on your feet, maahn.
James Bond Beach in Jamaica
I choose Jamaica because of its location. With a little planning you can not only enjoy the Caribbean hospitality, but also explore Cuba and visit Mexico!
From the mountains and spirituality of Dhramashala, to the beaches and indulgence of Jamaica, Cricket and the commentators give us an amazing experience of the various places and cultures around the world.
What are your dream cricket holiday destinations?
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