50 Best Travel Quotes For Travel Inspiration

October 16, 2015, 5:11 am

≫ Next: 30 Mind Blowing Facts About Indian Railways That You Have Never Heard

≪ Previous: 20 Most Spectacular Sunrise and Sunset Points in India

$

0

0

This world is a beautiful place that is filled unforgettable experiences and thrilling adventures. Travelling truly is therapeutic and completely rejuvenates you. A person who loves vacations will agree with me. Well, if you are not one those then here is a list of 50 Best Travel Quotes For Travel Inspiration. After reading this you might pack your bags and head out to explore this lovely plant, called Earth. Read on and get motivated to travel!

1: “A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.”– Tim Cahill

2: “For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.”– Robert Louis Stevenson

3: “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.”– Anonymous

4: “We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls.”– Anais Nin

5: “Adventure is worthwhile.”– Aesop


6: “The gladdest moment in human life, me thinks, is a departure into unknown lands.”– Sir Richard Burton

7: “No place is ever as bad as they tell you it’s going to be.”– Chuck Thompson

8: “I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.”– Mary Anne Radmacher

9:“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”– Gustave Flaubert

10: “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta

11: “The man who goes alone can start today; but he who travels with another must wait till that other is ready.”– Henry David Thoreau

12: “To awaken alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.” – Freya Stark

13: “The life you have led doesn’t need to be the only life you have.”– Anna Quindlen

14: “Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all of one’s lifetime.” – Mark Twain

15: “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.”– Andre Gide

16: “The use of traveling is to regulate imagination with reality, and instead of thinking of how things may be, see them as they are.”– Samuel Johnson

17: “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine

18: “Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind.”– Seneca

19: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” – Mark Twain

20: “Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.”– Dalai Lama

21: “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” – Anonymous

22: “To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.”– Aldous Huxley

23: “Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.”– Ray Bradbury

24: “Traveling tends to magnify all human emotions.” — Peter Hoeg

25: “You don’t have to be rich to travel well.” – Eugene Fodor

26: “If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” – James Michener

27: “People don’t take trips, trips take people.”– John Steinbeck

28: “When overseas you learn more about your own country, than you do the place you’re visiting.” – Clint Borgen

29: “To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.”– Bill Bryson

30: “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” – Helen Keller

31: “Our happiest moments as tourists always seem to come when we stumble upon one thing while in pursuit of something else.” — Lawrence Block

32: “Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and enjoy the journey.”– Babs Hoffman

33: “He who would travel happily must travel light.”– Antoine de St. Exupery

34: “Every man can transform the world from one of monotony and drabness to one of excitement and adventure.” – Irving Wallace

35: “Not all those who wander are lost.”– J.R.R. Tolkien

36: “The more I traveled the more I realized that fear makes strangers of people who should be friends.”– Shirley MacLaine

37: “I travel a lot; I hate having my life disrupted by routine.” – Caskie Stinnett

38: “A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes

39: “Remember that happiness is a way of travel – not a destination.”– Roy M. Goodman

40: “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” – Neale Donald Walsch

41: “Once in a while it really hits people that they don’t have to experience the world in the way they have been told to.” – Alan Keightley

42:“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.”– Henry Miller

43: “I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.” – Susan Sontag

44: “Nobody can discover the world for somebody else. Only when we discover it for ourselves does it become common ground and a common bond and we cease to be alone.”– Wendell Berry

45: “Take only memories, leave only footprints.”– Chief Seattle

46: “Two roads diverged in a wood and I – I took the one less traveled by.”– Robert Frost

47: “There is no moment of delight in any pilgrimage like the beginning of it.” – Charles Dudley Warner

48: “Oh the places you’ll go.”– Dr. Seuss

49: “It is not down in any map; true places never are.” – Herman Melville

50: “Investment in travel is an investment in yourself.” ~ Matthew Karsten

---

30 Mind Blowing Facts About Indian Railways That You Have Never Heard

October 19, 2015, 5:04 am

≫ Next: Best Trains in the World 2015 by Condé Nast Traveler

≪ Previous: 50 Best Travel Quotes For Travel Inspiration

$

0

0

Indian Railways is the lifeline of India. The railway network unites the distance, geography and diversity of the nation. Built way back in 1853, during the British colonial rule now it has grown to be the World’s third largest network. Truly defining the Indianness, traveling in train is an experience of India. Associated not only with incredible distances, there are many mind blowing facts about the Indian Railways.

Check out some facts about the Indian Railways:

1. Indian Railways dates back to 1853. During the British rule, the first train in India ran on 16th April 1853 from Bombay to Thane.

2. Though India was under colonial rule of the British and it was their idea, the first railroad was constructed by two Indians. Jaganath Shunkerseth and Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy were the first builders.

3. Covering the huge distances from North to south, East to west and crisscrossing routes, the full track length of Indian Railways can circle the equator one-and-a-half times. Even the daily total distance covered by Indian Railways daily equals three and a half times the distance to the moon.

4. Owned by the Government of India, the autonomous organization has over 1.6 million employees, Indian Railways is the world's 9th largest employer.

5. Indian Railways has a daily passenger population of almost 25 million. It is more than the entire population of Australia.

6. Indian Railways’ Fastest train is New Delhi-Bhopal Shatabdi Express.  The all air-conditioned superfast train clocks a maximum speed of 150kmph on the Faridabad-Agra section. This train covers the 704 km New Delhi - Bhopal stretch in 7 hours 50 minutes. Slowest train in India is Metupalayam Ooty Nilgiri Passenger which runs at a speed of 10kmph. Since this train runs in hilly region there are speed limits to comply. The one that comes close is Pratapnagar-Jambusar passenger, with a maximum speed of 12km/h and an average speed of 11km/h. It takes 4 hours for a journey of 44 km.

7. The Longest run by an Indian Railways’ train is the Vivek Express. Travelling from Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari travels a distance of 4273 km, making it the longest run in terms of total time and distance in Indian Railways. Shortest run by Indian Railways’ train is the scheduled services between Nagpur and Ajni stations situated just 3km from each other.

8. The longest non-stop travel of the railways is the Trivandrum-Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani Express which makes the 528 kilometer stretch between Vadodara and Kota non-stop. In second place is the Mumbai Rajdhani Express that travels nonstop between New Delhi and Kota.

9. Longest station name of the railway network is Venkatanarasimharajuvaripeta on the Arakkonam-Renigunta section near Chennai. The Shortest station name is Ib, near Jharsuguda in Odisha and Od, near Anand in Gujarat.

10. The India railway trains with most stops is 115 halts held by Howrah – Amritsar Express. This record is followed by Delhi – Howrah Janata Express 109 halts and Jammu Tawi – Sealdah Express 99 halts.

11. The least punctual train of the Indian rail is the Guwahati-Trivandrum Express. It is said to be the most unreliable long-distance train in the country. The charted journey time is 65 hours and 5 minutes, but the average delay on a trip is about 10-12 hours.

12. Indian Railways has achieved a new height. The railways owns the world’s highest rail bridge. The bridge is being constructed over Chenab River in Jammu & Kashmir’s Reasi district (Chenab Bridge). The bridge completion will be by December, 2015. Coming up at Kauri, it will be 359 meters (1,180 feet) above the riverbed (five times the height of Qutub Minar and 35 metres taller than Eiffel Tower). Stretching across a length of 424 metres, the bridge on the Panval River in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra is currently the tallest bridge in India.

13. The New Delhi Main Railway Station holds the record for the world's largest route relay interlocking system. The station has a place in the Guinness Book of Records.

14. In 1986, Indian Railways started its first computerized reservation in New Delhi.

15. Breaking the previous record of Kharagpur platform (1072.5 m) in length, Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh is the longest platform in the world with a length of 1366.33 metres.

16. There are 7,500 railway stations in India.

17. Loco-pilots (train drivers) are paid more than an average software engineer. Salaries are the tune of Rs. 1 Lakh per month and more.

18. The IRCTC (Indian Railways Catering & Tourism Corporation) website gets close to 12 lakh hits per minute. It is the online portal of the railways.

19. Indian Railways still has the oldest preserved locomotive in working order, the Fairy Queen which was made way back in 1855. It is the oldest functioning steam engine in the world, which finds a place in the Guinness Book of World Records and received Heritage Award at the International Tourist Bureau, Berlin in March 2000. The Indian luxury train offers guests an unrivalled experience.

20. The country’s longest tunnel is Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel 11.215 km that was completed in December 2012 in Jammu and Kashmir. The tunnel is yet to become functional railway route. Karbude on Konkan Railways, which is 6.5 km in length previously held the title for the longest tunnel in India.

21. Railways runs as many as 19,000 trains every day. Some 12,000 trains are for passengers and 7,000 for freight.

22.Vembanad Rail Bridge 4.62 km in length in the state of Kerala connects connecting Edappally and Vallarpadam in Kochi. It is the longest rail bridge in India and it is dedicated solely for freight. Nehru Setu Bridge near Dehri on the river Sone is the longest railway bridge in India. The bridge is near Sasaram on Kolkata-Delhi Line. It is 3.065km long. It is the passenger route.

23. Junction with most number of routes originating from it Mathura junction with 7 routes- Broad Gauge (BG) line to Agra Cantt, BG line to Bharatpur, BG line to Alwar, BG line to Delhi, Metre Gauge (MG) line to Achnera, MG line to Vrindavan and MG line to Hathras, Kasganj. Six route junction – Bhatinda. Five route junctions – Lucknow, Guntakal, Katni, Varanasi, Kanpur Central, Villupuram, Dabhoi, and Nagpur.

24. The Northernmost railway station is Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir. Westernmost is Naliya near Bhuj in Gujarat. Southernmost railway station is Kanyakumari, while the last station on the east of India is Ledo on branch line from Tinsukia.

25. Nagpur located in central India is the site of the Diamond crossing of the Indian Railways. This is one of a kind from where trains go East, West, North and South.

26. The National Rail Museum in Delhi set up in 1977 is a one of the unique museums in Asia. Sprawled over an area of 11 acres the museum has collections like antique steam engines, locomotives, models, carriages, photographs among other things. There are live exhibits as well as working and non-working models. The added attraction is the toy train which runs across the museum. This is a living heritage of the Indian Railways.

27. Indian Railways has a mascot Bholu, the Guard Elephant.

28. The busiest junction in the nation is Lucknow. The Indian Railways cater 64 trains every day.

29. Indian Railways have numerous luxury and heritage trains. Palace on Wheels was the first luxury train. Maharajas’ Express is a recent addition to the luxury trains of India. This 2010 inaugurated train recently won the“Seven Stars Global Luxury Award” in the luxury train category. The other names of luxury trains are Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, Deccan Odyssey and Golden Chariot .

30. Four Indian Railways’ trains have been declared "World Heritage sites" by UNESCO. The Darjeeling, Himalayan Railway (1999), Mumbai CST Building (2004), Neelgiri Mountain Railways (2005) and Kalka-Shimla Railways (2008).

Related Post:
Why Choose Indian Railways for Traveling in India 
How to Book Train Ticket in India 
Top 25 Scenic Train Routes in India

Best Trains in the World 2015 by Condé Nast Traveler

October 20, 2015, 12:31 am

≫ Next: 10 Most Luxurious & Boutique Hotels in Himalayas

≪ Previous: 30 Mind Blowing Facts About Indian Railways That You Have Never Heard

$

0

0

Travelling onboard a luxury train is an extraordinary experience as the journey takes us back in the times of the royalty, luxury and romance, so that we can revive the concept of tasteful train travelling. It is no exaggeration to say that luxury train is the best way to explore some of the most stunning destinations in the world.

A tour aboard a luxury train ensures memorable and stimulating journeys along with getting a grand treatment like the erstwhile Kings and Queens. All the luxury trains in the world are festooned with modern comforts, flawless hospitality, on-board dining, lounge and spa venues, regal décor and more. For your read, here is the list of 10 best trains in the world that were voted in Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers' Travel Awards 2015:

Belmond Royal Scotsman

Photo courtesy: Belmond Royal Scotsman

Belmond Royal Scotsman is a wonderful luxury train that takes its guests to the middle of the highlands in Scotland, offering stunning views of the surrounding pine-covered mountains. The train ensures superior personalized services to its 36 guests that it can accommodate in 14 twin, 2 double and 4 single State Cabins that are well-adorned with rich patterns and contain modern amenities such as private bathroom, and more.

From the special Observation Car of the Royal Scotsman, the guests can admire breathtaking views of the scenic beauty of Scottish Highlands. Just settle yourself on the cushy armchair and watch the glens, villages and castles, pass by. For open-air views, there is a verandah too. In the elegant restaurant cars, the guests can savor world class delicacies and fine beverages in the cellar.

Departure months: April to October
Destinations: London, Edinburgh, Keith, Dundee, Glasgow, Perth, Cambridge, York, Ardlui, Scarborough, Cambridge, Oxford, Bath and Chester

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Venice Simplon -  Orient Expres

One of the most popular luxury trains in the World, Venice Simplon Orient Express with original vintage cars of 1920s is all about continental charm, flamboyance, pre-war appeal and superb journeys. The train journeys create life-time memories by running from Paris to Istanbul in a duration of 6 days, including halts at Bucharest and Budapest.

A truly unique and luxurious travel experience, this train has wonderful cabins that have all the world-class comfort and boat of a rich décor. The quality of food and services on-board the train is matchless. In the restaurant car with unsurpassed décor, along with a fine French meal, the guests can enjoy music from a pianist. From the shop on-board, the guests can get their hands on special souvenirs. At the bar of Venice Simplon Orient Express, socialize with your fellow passengers while holding a glass of your favorite wine.

Departure months: March to November
Destinations: Paris to Istanbul via Budapest and Bucharest

Rovos Rail, South Africa

Rovos Rail, South Africa

An amazing amalgam of the rugged feel of an African safari and traditional luxe, Rovos Rail is a luxury train of Africa that is known for creating unforgettable stylishness of past along with offering modern comforts. Memorable experiences begin from the stunning Edwardian-styled departure room and continue throughout the journey on this luxury train. At the lounge car, the guests can unwind and relax while admiring the scenery.

From the backside of the observation car, treat your eyes to the lovely views of the surroundings. Staying in the air-conditioned and well-adorned luxury suites is surely a pleasure. There is round the clock service, special wiring area, a personal safe, a mini bar are some of the facilities. The dining cars with Victorian features serve a variety of food along with fine South African wines.

Departure months: Throughout the year
Destinations: Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Victoria Falls, Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) and Swakopmund (Namibia)

Palace on Wheels, India

Palace on Wheels - One of the finest luxury trains of the world

The first luxury train of India and one of the finest luxury trains of the world, The Palace on Wheels has been the mark of luxury train travel since 1982, and has been offering  a ride in the post British Raj era, clubbed with classic Indian hospitality. This award-winning luxury train offers a week-long journey to some of the best destinations of the Royal Indian state of Rajasthan. 

Luxurious cabins, a spa saloon, a splendid bar, a sitting lounge area, and 2 restaurants (Maharaja and Maharani) are a part of this Indian luxury train. A total of 14 salons can accommodate up to 88 guests. Guests get a chance to explore the erstwhile princely states of India. Rich furnishings and upholstery, en-suite toilets, air-conditioner, electronic safe, miniature paintings, twin and king-size beds, a personal attendant/Khidnatgar (for each salon), sumptuous Indian and world fares are some of the highlights.

Departure months: November to April
Destinations: Delhi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra

[ Read More about Palaces on Wheels - India by Luxury Train ]

The Ghan, Great Southern Rail

The Ghan, Australia

Traversing through Adelaide and going all the Darwin, The Ghan is popular for following one of the most extraordinary routes in the world. Connecting varied landscape with lovely naturel scenery and a sneak peak peek into the pre-historical times clubbed with modern conveniences for the passengers, are the highlights of this luxury train.

Known to be an engineering marvel, this train takes you into Australia’s interiors offering memorable travel experiences by segregating services as Platinum, Gold and Red. The cabins are fully-equipped and the food served is lip-smacking, deepening on the category that the guests choose. The guests have an option of twin beds and king-size beds to pick from.

Departure months: Throughout the year
Destinations: Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin

Trans-Siberian Express, Golden Eagle Luxury Trains

Golden Eagle Trans Siberian Express

The luxury train of Russia, Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, one of the world’s grandest rail journeys, is the best way to spectate the beauty of Siberia. Launched in 2007, this train links east and west from Moscow over the Ural Mountains. Witnessing the expansive grasslands and the banks of the world’s largest freshwater lake is an unparalleled experience. 

Imperial Suites, Imperial Suites Stats, Gold Class, and Silver Class is the classification of the luxury suites of the Trans-Siberian Express where all the world-class facilities and services are provided. Boasting of a chic décor, The Gold Restaurant Car and The White Restaurant Car’ can easily accommodate 64 passengers at the time, serving scrumptious food and beverages to the guests. The Ornate Bar car is the entertainment zone, containing a piano and a pianist.

Departure months: May to September
Destinations: Moscow, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Irkutsk, Lake Baikal, Ulan Ude, Ulaan Baatar, Vladivostok and Khabarovsk.

The Blue Train, South Africa

Blue Train, South Africa

Awarded twice the Africa’s leading luxury train, The Blue Train offers two route- Pretoria to Cape Town and Pretoria to Hoedspruit. If you are on a tour to South Africa, do not miss any of these trouble-free 2-day lavish journeys. Starting in 1946, the train was refurbished and re-launched in 1997. There are 2 set trains. While one can accommodate 52 guests, the other can carry 80 guests at once. A sound proof observation car, 2 lounges and butler services are some of the highlights. 

The landscape varies from stunning mountains to arid desert and to the wild savannah grasslands. Even VIPs like kings, celebrities and presidents have not been able to stay away from alluring charm of the Blue Train, synonymous to a five-star hotel.

Destinations - Pretoria-Hoedspruit-Pretoria-Route / Pretoria--Cape-Town--Pretoria Route
Departure months - July - August/ January to June

Belmond British Pullman

Belmond British Pullman

Formerly the Orient-Express British Pullman and sister train of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Belmond British Pullman is a superb world luxury train that has an exhaustive list of journeys to choose from. These journeys commence from and conclude in London comprising of popular towns and cities of Great Britain. Most of the journeys have diesel engines while just a few have steam locomotives. 

This luxury train consists of 11 parlor cars, out of which one is a service car and 6 are kitchen cars. British Pullman can accommodate 252 guests and the carriage seats are divided between 20 and 26 guests in each. The carriages are original ones from the decades of 1920s and 30s, adorned with all the contemporary facilities and a décor that is inspired from art deco design, depicting colorful historical past. The views are lovely and the food orgasmic, during all the well-crafted journeys.

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Alluring views, fascinating journeys, fine dining, world-class hospitality and comfortable stay in deluxe accommodation, all this and much more is a part of the being on-board the Rocky Mountaineer. Experience the beauty of Canada and witness its cultures in the best manner possible by getting aboard this luxury train that has a 12-day adventure journey amidst Rocky Mountains. 

Awarded as World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train by World Travel Awards seven times, this has 4 categories of services (routes) - Gold Leaf Service, Silver Leaf Service, Red Leaf Service and Whistler. The services and amenities differ in all the categories. Recently, a new journey was introduced on a new route, called Coastal Passage.

Departure months: April to October
Destinations: Vancouver to Calgary, Vancouver and Jasper, Whistler to Jasper, Seattle to Jasper, and Vancouver to Whistler.

Belmond Hiram Bingham

Hiram Bingham, Peru

Go on-board Belmond Hiram Bingham, for a span of 4 nights, 6 nights or 7 nights and explore breathtaking places, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. This luxury train offers 4 journeys- Essential Peru, Insiders' Peru, Adventurous Peru and Unmissable Peru. Treat your eyes to the mesmerizing scenery of Peru. 

The train carriages, which are painted in blue and gold, can host up to 84 guests. The décor of the carriages are styled in the times of 1920s. This train assures magical memorable journeys to exotic places, clubbed contemporary conveniences and world-class hospitality. Opt for trips from Poroy, close the ancient city of Cusco, to the Sacred Valley, and the Lost City of Machu Picchu. This luxury train also comprises of an Observation car so that the guests can admire the scenery. The two dining carriages can accommodate 42 guests. Relish sumptuous food at the restaurants and enjoy fine beverages at the Bar car.

Departure months: May to December
Destinations: Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

Related Post:
Top 10 Luxury Trains in the World 
Top 20 Luxury Train Journeys in the World 
World's Most Spectacular Train Stations 
Top 10 Great Rail Journeys in the World

10 Most Luxurious & Boutique Hotels in Himalayas

October 23, 2015, 3:16 am

≫ Next: 25 Best Family Holiday Destinations

≪ Previous: Best Trains in the World 2015 by Condé Nast Traveler

$

0

0

Himalayan region in India is long been recognized as a popular place to unwind and rejuvenate. Variously dubbed as a place where god resides, Himalayas is considered one of the most spiritually and mentally uplifting places in the world. Our collection of luxury and boutique hotels in Himalayas will take you to road less travelled.

Characterized by great outdoors, tranquility, personalized service and a range of activities like venturing out to local villages, hikes and rejuvenation therapies makes these chic properties - some with cottages, villas and state of the art spa & Ayurveda centers – a perfect escape from the humdrums of daily life. So here we list the 10 most luxurious and boutique hotels in Himalayas in no particular order.

Wildflower Hall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

The Spa at Wildflower Hall Shimla is awarded the Leading Spa in India twice

Wildflower hall offers opportunity to the guests to refresh with cycling, rafting, nature walk or yoga and rejuvenate them with an elite spa therapy. The restaurant offers colorful dinning space and a warm seating arrangement. The outdoor terrace offers splendid view of the Himalayas. In addition, wildflower hall offers an indoor pool adorned with crystal chandeliers. The temperature of the pool remains controlled throughout the year to provide a good swimming experience to the guests.

Cost: Starting from Rs. 19,000 per night.

Kalmatia Sangam Resort, Almora, Uttarakhand

Kalmatia Sangam Himalaya Resort in Almora

Kalmatia Sangam Resort in Almora is a place that allows you to escape from crowd and offers you much needed relaxation by providing gentle scenic walks and some exciting treks. Apart from offering comfort and privacy, the tastefully decorated cottages of this resort allow guests to enjoy the magnificent mountain views of the Himalayas.

Cost: Starting from Rs. 7,000 per night including breakfast

Moksha Spa Resort, Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh

Moksha - An ideal Ayurvedic health Spa resort in Parwanoo,Himachal Pradesh

Moksha is an ayurvedic health spa resort located in the Shivalik ranges of Himalayas in the picturesque Himachal Pradesh. Moksha resort contains 15 royal buildings with 62 suites and therefore offers a wide variety of stay options to the guests to choose from. Apart from comfortable stay, the rejuvenating and relaxing spa offered by this resort provides perfect peace and sense of well being to its esteemed guests.

Cost: Starting from Rs.18,000per night

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, West Bengal

Glenburn Tea Estate & Boutique Hotel in Darjeeling

Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling contains two bungalows each consisting four suites, verandahs, gardens, common area and terraces accessible to all the guests. Each bungalow offers cozy living room and grand dining room to enjoy candle light dinners. All the spacious bedrooms are tastefully decorated by using different themes to offer a unique experience to the guests.

Cost: Rs 30,000 per night for 2 persons sharing on twin occupancy

Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, Gangtok, Sikkim

Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino in Gangtok, Sikkim

Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, Gangtok offers luxurious rooms, bar facilities, multi-cuisine restaurant, swimming pool, spa, casino and health club to enjoy your holidays in Gangtok. Apart from comfortable and luxurious stay, this resort offers well-appointed spa to rejuvenate your body and mind in heavenly atmosphere.

Cost: Starting from Rs. 14,000 per night

Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir

Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg, Kashmir

Truly built in the architectural heritage of Kashmir, Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa offers extraordinary experience to the guests. A cigar lounge, heated swimming pool, beautifully decorated restaurant and a comfortable spa are some of the luxuries offered by this resort. Its mini theatre and kids’ club make it one of the best resorts in India.

Cost: Starting from Rs. 15,000 per night

Ananda in the Himalayas, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Ananda in the Himalayas in Rishikesh

Living at Ananda is a fine blend of style, elegance and serenity. The suites and villas at Ananda offer splendid views that leave you astonished. All the rooms are spacious and offer excellent view of the Rishikesh valley. In addition, each room equipped with luxury amenities and facilities contains large balcony with picture perfect view.

Cost: Starting from Rs. 28,000 per night

Aalia, Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Unique in concept, Aalia is a luxury hotel located on the banks of the majestic Ganges in Haridwar. Surrounded by natural beauty from all sides, this beautifully designed resort allows you to relish the tranquil surroundings and fresh air coming from river Ganges. By offering world class facilities and exceptional services, Aalia bids an unmatched hospitality of its guests. By offering exotic food, nice ambience and lots of indoor and outdoor activities, Aalia makes your stay an unforgettable experience.

Cost: Starting from Rs. 11,000 per night

The Himalayan Spa Resort, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

The Himalayan - Luxury Resort & Spa in Manali

The Himalayan Spa Resort is a premier luxury resort in Manali. Its cottages are set in the midst of cherry and apple orchards overlooking snow capped mountain peaks. Hence this resort is an ideal escape into tranquility without missing comfort and luxury.

Cost: Staring from Rs. 14,000 per night

Shakti 360 Degrees Leti, Kumaon Region, Uttarakhand

Shakti 360 Degrees Leti in Uttarakhand

Shakti 360° Leti located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is a place which offers beautiful stunning mountain scenery to the tourists to relish. An innovative combination of contemporary design and traditional building techniques, Shakti 360° Leti allows its guests to view snow capped peaks of great Himalaya ranges. 

It offers a cozy fireplace and beds decorated with fluffy duvets and pashmina blankets. Outdoors offer treks, mountain walks and camping experience. Here, you can relax in planter’s chair and can enjoy the sunshine and magnificent view of the Himalayas. Meditation and yoga sessions can also be arranged on request.

Cost: USD 2055 per person for 3N/4D on twin sharing basis

About the Author :

I am Shahil Shah, a passionate traveller and loves to write about various places and tips from around the world through my website HolidayBirds. You can also contact me via G+.

Related Post: 
Luxury in the Lap of the Himalayas 
Best Spa & Ayurveda Resorts in India
Top Luxury Hotels in India

25 Best Family Holiday Destinations

October 31, 2015, 5:15 am

≫ Next: The Best Hill Stations in South India for Honeymoon

≪ Previous: 10 Most Luxurious & Boutique Hotels in Himalayas

$

0

0

Favorite childhood memories for most of us are those when we went for a vacation with our family. It is the best way to spend some quality-time with your loved ones, away from hectic schedule of our life. The world houses several such destinations that are ideal for a family vacation consisting of special family resorts and hotels and offering numerous activities that a family can indulge in together. Picking just the right place to visit with your family is an important thing so that you can have a family holiday to remember for a lifetime. The blog enlists some of the best places for family holidays in the world:

1. Sri Lanka

A strikingly lovely tropical country, Sri Lanka, lies southwards of India, looking like a drop of tear falling into the mighty Indian Ocean. This paradise-like Island has a lot to offer when it comes to planning a family vacation here. An enthralling ancient history, amazing natural setting, golden sandy beaches, reserves with exotic wildlife, remarkable mountain backdrop, rich culture, green valleys, lovely waterfalls, interesting outdoor activities like canoeing and catamaran, superb attractions, sprawling tea plantations- all make Sri Lanka a must-visit destination for a family holiday. Get up, close and personal with colorful birds, elephants and turtles.

 2. New Zealand

From the sub-tropical forests, private sandy bays, geothermal marvels in the northern side to the snow-clad mountains and mighty glaciers in the southern region, New Zealand offers magically diverse landscape features. Varied and exotic wildlife, thrilling adventure activities and natural scenery are going to enchant you completely. Your kids are simply going to lovev the locations of shooting of popular Hollywood movies like The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. There are a number of theme parks, museums and wildlife reserves here. You and your family can also partake in adventure activities like rafting, bungee-jumping, skiing, kayaking and zorbing.

3. Bhutan

Bhutan is a wonderful place to have a vacation with your family as it has activities to keep a traveler of every age-group completely engaged. Enjoy a meeting with a Bhutanese family and relish their local food. There is so much to visit too such as Simtokha Dzong and Changangkha Lhakhang in Thimpu, and Drukgyal Dzong and Taktsang Monastery in Paro. Treat your eyes to the lovely views of Mt Everest and Mt .Kanchenjunga when you are in Thimpu. 

If you all are adventure buffs, there are trekking opportunities for you, combined with camping and wildlife viewing. Go mountain biking and exploring the remote villages and get drenched with water during rafting in Bhutan. A visit to Bhutan with family is a cultural delight too, a superb mix of relaxation and adventure.

4. Delhi

Source

Delhi, an amalgam of a lot many things, is simply a delight for vacationing along with your family. The capital city of India, also referred to as the ‘City of the Djinns’, is a cultural delight, a shopper’s paradise, a party destination and home to numerous tourist attractions including historical and religious. 

Explore the historical and ancient monuments, get your hands on trendy stuff in the popular markets, visit the theme and water parks, savor world-popular street food, have fine-dining experiences at posh restaurant and seek lord’s blessings at the several places of worship. The night life too is quite amazing here. Do not miss the popular metro ride here with your family here. It has something for all kinds of tourists with varied likings. This city is quite absorbing.

Also Read:

Top Places to Visit in Delhi
5 Best Luxury Hotels in Delhi
Most Romantic Restaurants in Delhi
Red Fort, Delhi: World Heritage Sites in India
World Heritage Sites in and around Delhi

5. Europe

World-class museums, family-friendly attractions, historical sights, lovely unspoilt islands, storybook castles, superb beaches, varied wildlife, snow-capped mountain peaks, dense lush forests and the list of experiences in Europe continues if you are planning a vacation here. You will be spoilt for choice when it is the European continent as you have an option of more than 40 countries to pick from, each having a different attraction. 

While there are popular places like Italy, Switzerland, Austria, France, Spain, Portugal, London, Finland, Hungary, Germany, Ireland, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark, there are some less-travelled places too such as Sicily, Sardinia, Turkey and Croatia. Your visit here would be an unforgettable experience.

6. Kerala

A mish-mash of tasty local food, cultural extravaganzas, age-old Ayurveda, verdant Western Ghats, serene backwaters, wonderful beaches, expansive spice and tea plantations, never-ending tourist attractions and green environment, make Kerala state, the ‘God’s own Country’, the perfect destination for a family vacation. 

National Geographic Traveller has put it in the list of ‘50 Places of a Lifetime’. You and your family has a lot to do during your tour to Kerala. Cruise in a Kettuvallam (houseboat), enjoy bird watching, partake in wildlife viewing and other adventure activities, attend superb boat races and festive celebrations, explore the popular beaches, temples and other attractions, savor scrumptious food and so on.

7. Kashmir

Blessed with matchless scenic beauty, termed with phrases like ‘Heaven on Earth’ and ‘Crown of India’, a visit to Kashmir will leave you simply enchanted. Along with the scenery, the memorable experiences also are endless. In Srinagar, go for a Shikara ride on the placid Dal Lake and visit the beautiful Mughal Gardens; In Gulmarg, do not miss the cable car ride up to Khilamgar and indulge in fun activities at snow-point. 

In Pahalgam, admire the lovely lush scenery while on the back of a pony and In Sonmarg, visit the perennial Thajiwas glacier. Do not forget to get your hands on some amazing wooden handicrafts and woolen clothes.

8. Dubai

Some of the world’s best activities during a family holiday can be done in Dubai. There is so much to do with family. There are great theme parks like KidZania, adventurous water rides at Adventure Water Park, alluring shopping malls like the Dubai Mall, thrilling Arab adventures like dessert safaris and camel rides, beautiful white sandy beach beaches for leisure moments, exciting indoor ski slopes at Dubai Ice Rank, fun activities at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and luxury skyscrapers such as Burj Khalifa in Dubai. It is a quality destination that is visited by tourists from all around the globe. The food too is superb.

9. Thailand

Sightseeing, relaxation and quality-time with your loved ones are going to be a part of your memorable family vacation in Thailand. You have an assortment of activities to indulge in when you will be here. For kids, there are wildlife sanctuaries, theme parks, beaches, museums, jungle treks etc. families can enjoy the ideal settings of the stunning beaches at Ko Lipe, Phuket, Krabi, Ko Chang and Ko Samet, away from hectic cities. 

Orgasmic food, water sports and lovely coastline would mesmerize you. The nightlife of Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket and Bangkok would be thrilling. Enjoy wildlife viewing while sitting on an elephant’s back. The culture, customs, royalty and history would be a delight. You can also visit during celebration of festivals like Loi Krathong, Moneky Buffet Festival and Sat Thai. Shopping here is a delight too as you can get your hands on fashionable clothes, pearls, handicrafts, artificial flowers and Thai silk.

10. Andaman

If you and your family love the combination of a beach vacation, away from the regular touristy hustle-bustle, all of you are simply going to adore Andaman Islands. A lovely cluster of islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, they are visited by tourists for their rich marine life, stunning coral reefs, scenic beauty and serenity that is spread all around. 

There are a lot of activities that one can indulge in here such as exploring marine life in a boat with glass bottom, partaking in water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, meeting the wildlife in the national parks and exploring the popular monuments and other man-made attractions. Andaman Islands boasts of breathtakingly beautiful Islands and beaches such as Havelock Island, Ross Island, Elephant Beach and Radhanagar beach that are famous all around.

11. Ladakh

Best known for its adventure opportunities and mesmerizing scenery, the erstwhile Himalayan Kingdom is an alluring barren land that has a rugged landscape and snow-clad peaks. There are a number of reasons that make Ladakh a famous family destination all around the globe. Stunning sights, high-altitude glacial lakes and motorable passes, lip-smacking local cuisine, ancient Buddhist monasteries, safari ride on double-humped camels and shopping are memorable experiences here.

And, if you are a family that loves adventure, there is so much for you. Partake in hiking, trekking, river rafting, mountain biking etc. treat your eyes to the mesmerizing nature. A visit during monastery fair and festivals would be memorable.

12. Mauritius

One of the most family-friendly islands in the world, Mauritius looks like a paradise with its crystal-clear waters, clean white-sandy beaches, crystal lagoons, emerald peaks, stunning surroundings, beautiful villages and green rainforest. Try your hand at adventure activities like scuba diving, trekking through the forest and snorkeling, Opting for a luxury cruise with your family to explore the vastness of the Indian Ocean would be a good idea. 

Natural wonders such as volcanic interiors, rainforests, coral reefs, islands and beaches are matchless and all worth exploring along with your loved-ones. You can go on a road trip to the nearby villages and interact with the locals. Grand Baie, Roche Zozo, Flic en Flac and Whale Rock are some of the must-visit attractions here. Shopping here is not to be missed.

13. Himachal Pradesh

One of the best destinations in India, Himachal Pradesh surely has a lot to offer to you if you thinking for a family holiday. This north Indian state has numerous hill stations that you can explore along with your family while partaking in adventure activities, exploring the green locales, enjoying the superb weather, visiting popular attractions, eating tasty food and more. 

Ride a toy train and enjoy leisure walks at the Mall Road of erstwhile summer capital of British-Shimla; satisfy your adventurous soul with activities like river rafting, zip lining, para gliding and zorbing in Manali and Solang Valley; enjoy snow-activities at Rohtang Pass; and feel close to the nature at Chamba, Dharamsala, Dalhousie and Kasauli.

Also Read:

Top Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Luxury in the Lap of the Himalayas 

Vacations in Himachal Pradesh 

14. Maldives

Crystal clear warm seas, white sandy blissful beaches, lush palm trees, exotic marine life, a safe environment, water sports and a plethora of holiday activities, every year, allure family vacationers of Maldives. A superb destination to explore life under the sea waters, Maldives is known for its picture-perfect scenic beauty. Located in a far-glug location amid the Indian Ocean, made-up of 26 atolls, this place has much to offer for your and your family’s indulgence. 

The smallest country in Asia, it offers endless water sports activities such as wind surfing, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kite boarding, water skiing and more. Maldives is also known for its world-class exotic resorts. Do not miss exploring the underwater life, shopping at the streets and enjoy memorable sunset views here. The local food would be orgasmic. Island hopping would be a great activity too.

15. Goa

 

A Goan vacation with your family is something that you must not miss. And, if you visit Goa once, you will wish to come here again and again. The laid-back Goa state receives a crazy number of leisure-seekers from all around the globe. Dotted with bustling street markets, fascinating beaches, beautiful churches, great clubs and more, Goa is the place to be. The place has something for all kinds of visitors- an adventure enthusiast, a wanderer or a nature lover. 

The list of to-do things in Goa is pretty long- visiting the churches of old Goa, water sports like jet skiing and para sailing at the North Goa beaches, a serene leisure walk on South Goan beaches, a sunset cruise in River Mandovi, casino-visit in the casino-cruises in River Mandovi in Panjim, shopping at the flea markets, relishing local Goan delicacies, sightseeing, dolphin-viewing and so on. Hire a bike to explore the length and breadth of Goa at your own pace.

Also Read: 

5 Best Luxury Hotels in Goa 

Best Beach Huts in Goa 

Goa Sunburn Festival 

Goa Fiesta: Christmas and New Year Vacation Ideas

16. Gujarat

Akshardham Temple

A cultural tour, a religious trip, a historical journey- Gujarat state is all this and everything else, rolled into one. A visit to this place with diverse culture is a pure delight, clubbed with amazing cities, splendid temples, historical sites, pristine coastline and exotic wildlife. Visit popular religious sites such as Somnath temple, Dwarkadhish temple, Akshardham and Haji Pir Dargah in Kutch; explore ancient cities of Dholavira and Lothal; admire the magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, have a rendezvous with the mighty Asiatic Lion at Gir national park; indulge in fun activities at the hill town of Saputara and more. 

Famed as the ‘Land of Legends and Lions’, Gujarat is known for its handicrafts too. Get your hands on applique and path work, bead work, embroidery work and kalamkari items. Special local delicacies must not be missed. A visit during Navaratri and Rann Ustav would be unforgettable. There is a special Gandhi Circuit too that takes you to places and attractions, related to Mahatama Gandhi.

Also Read: 

Top Places to Visit in Gujarat 

Rann Utsav : A Travel Guide to Mega Festival in Gujarat 

International Kite Festival in Gujarat

17. Malaysia

A heady mish-mash of Island city-state of Singapore to the bustling capital of Kuala Lumpur, and from the pristine beaches of Penang and Langkawi and Penang to the exotic wildlife in the tropical rainforests of Borneo, Malaysia boasts of being of the most amazing family-friendly holiday destination. Friendly locals, an amalgam of cultures, heritage sites, high-end shopping experiences, exotic wildlife, lovely beaches and an array of activities for all age-groups allure families to this stunning place. 

Peaceful Malaysia has several destinations and attractions like parks, beaches, islands and superb cities like George Town and Kuala Lumpur that are worth-visiting. A lot of Chinese influence can also be seen here, especially during the celebration of the Chinese New year. The local cuisine is lip-smacking. If you love shopping, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi has so much for you. You can also get your hands on handicrafts at Malacca and collects them as souvenirs. 

Kuala Lumpur is for high-end shoppers. Langkawi boasts of beautiful beaches, heritage sites, kid’s attractions and natural wonders. The twin islands of Borneo and Penang are popular for wonderful coral reefs and national parks. Have a fun-filled family vacation here.

18. Australia

Camels Ride in Broome, Australia

 A great family holiday destination, Australia is a mix of some amazing activities and experiences. There is snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, memorable sunrise over Ulluru rocks, skiing at Koiosko National Park mountains, crocodile viewing at Broome crocodile park, dolphin feeding at Money Mia, swimming with the whale sharks at Gningaloo Reef, kangaroo and koala viewing, shopping in Sydney and Melbourne, water activities at Gold Coast, lip-smacking food and stay at swanky restaurants and hotels, visit to Rottnest Island, beach holiday at Patonda, snow viewing at Mt Hotham Victoria etc. Should we say more!

19. Nepal 

If you are a family that loves adventure, being amid nature and being outside, then Nepal is just the perfect destination for you. Your kids can get to hear mountain adventure tales right from horse’s mouth that is in a Sherpa’s own words. He or she can also enjoy pot making along with local village pot makers. The mountain landscape scenery along with lush fields and tiny hamlets is absolutely mesmerizing. 

Religious sites like Lumbini, Pashupatinath temple, Boudnath, Swayambhunath temple and Kathmandu Durbar Square are a must-visit. Nepal is also quite popular amidst trekking enthusiasts, be it beginners or professional trekkers. One of such trek routes is Langtang trek. Do not miss a rendezvous with the region’s wildlife at Chitwan National Park. You are going to Nepal’s serene surroundings and lush green environ.

20. Switzerland

Boasting of stimulating outdoor activities, open lush meadows, several lakes and stunning Alpine landscape and snow-capped peaks, Switzerland is an ideal destination for a family vacation. The perfect mix of chilling-out and a high adrenaline pumping, Switzerland is one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe. All about seeing, doing and experiencing, this lovely country is about visiting villages, castles, lakes, archaeological sites, meadows and churches. 

Explore the surroundings- on-foot, in a car, on-board mountain railways and riding cable cars. Skiing, biking and hiking are some of the activities that can be done here. Each of the 26 cantons of Switzerland has its own attraction, be it a man-made wonder or a natural sparkle. Some of the destinations that you must visit are Berne, Interlaken, Bellinzona, Zurich, St.Gallen, Lugano and Geneva for their historic and heritage sights, night clubs, castles, shopping experiences, art and craft and more.

21. Indonesia

Offering an array of spectacular beaches and thrilling wildlife adventures along with much more, Indonesia is a superb family holiday destination. A vacation in Indonesia is full of several adventures, from catching a glimpse of the rare Sumatran Tiger, swimming along the volcanic island of Krakatoa, spotting Orangutans in the natural surroundings, seeing the mighty Komodo Dragons and having a sneak-peak into forgotten cultures of the eastern islands. Indonesia is a charmer for the visitors of all ages because of endless fun activities. 

Visit the magnificent temples in Java, enjoy volcano climbing and snorkeling along with the sea turtles or explore the pristine islands of Lombok and Bali with lovely golden beaches, visit the friendly villagers of the world’s third largest island of Kalimantan and so on. With so much to do, Indonesia can never be boring.

22. Rajasthan

Travel back in times of the Kings and Queen during your visit to the Royal state of Rajasthan and get a sneak-peak into the life of the royalty of the region. Stunning forts and palaces, celebrated destinations, camel safaris in the vast Thar Dessert, lip-smacking local delights, shopping at the colorful bazaars, attending vibrant festivals, visits to stunning old havelis, an elephant ride up to Amer fort’s entrance, a rendezvous with the big cat and much more can be done during your family vacation in Rajasthan. You are going to have the best of experiences. Your loved ones are going to love it here.

Also Read:
Top Places To Visit in Rajasthan
Hill Forts of Rajasthan: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
5 Best Palace Hotels in Rajasthan
Jodhpur RIFF: Cultural Events in Rajasthan
Gajner Palace Bikaner: Heritage Hotels in Rajasthan

23. Tibet

Marvelous monasteries, spectacular high-altitude trekking routes, fabulous views of the highest mountain in the world- the Mount Everest, unique culture, extremely friendly people, lovely scenery and landscape, glistening rivers, Tibet is all this and more, making it a fantastic family destination. If you and your family are into adventure and outdoor activities, you can partake in hiking, camping and mountain climbing. The serenity and lush green environment helps you in complete rejuvenation of your tired senses. 

Tibet also holds religious importance for Hindus, Jains and Buddhist as it houses the holy mountain, called Mount Kailash. Lhasa is the place to get a sneak-peek into the old ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture and houses several monasteries and temples. Shigatse, Gyantse and Nam Tso Lake must also be visited. Your children can also enjoy horse riding. Located in the Tibet Autonomous Region, Amdo and Kham region would also be a delight and offer superb experiences.

24. Singapore

Singapore is one of those few places that have an array of activities for all likings and for all ages, making it the perfect holiday destination to visit with your family. There is so much to do and see, from entertainment, culture and art to recreational activities and natural beauty. A popular haunt of families from all around the globe, Singapore has several popular tourist attractions including Chinatown, Universal Studios, Sultan Mosque, Merlion Park, Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sand, Indian temple and Clarke and Boat Quays. 

Little India is equally popular amidst locals and tourists. A ride in the Cable Car would offer a panoramic view of the surroundings. If you have educational bent of mind, explore the several galleries and museums such as National Museum, Chinatown Heritage Centre and City Hall. Sentosa Island is not to be missed at any cost. Singapore Zoo, Jurong BirdPark, MacRitchie Nature Trail, Bukit Batok Nature Park and Botanic Garden are ideal for nature and wildlife lovers. Do not forget to indulge in shopping when in Singapore.

25. North East

The serene, pleasant, green and enchanting North-east region of India is slightly less explored and make up for a superb location for your family vacation. The experiences it has to offer are matchless. Your kids are going to love a ride in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway’s ‘Toy Train’ and the sunrise from behind the Tiger Hill. Do not miss exploring the amazing Buddhist Monasteries. 

For adventure seekers, there is river rafting, trekking, hiking and more. Tsomgo Lake is a must visit. When in Gangtok, to do miss shopping at the London-style M.G. Road market. The scenery is going to enchant you. For wildlife viewing, you can visit Namdapha and Kaziranga National Park. This part of the country is also a place to have an insight into the tribes of India.

Related Post:

16 Ideas for Family Holidays in India 

The Best Hill Stations in South India for Honeymoon

November 16, 2015, 3:50 am

≫ Next: Most Interesting Facts about Maharajas Express

≪ Previous: 25 Best Family Holiday Destinations

$

0

0

South India presents some of the best hill stations in India for newly wedded couples looking for that perfect retreat at the beginning of their life. The romance, seclusion and breathtaking beauty offered by the hill stations in South India would be the best initiation in the new paths they are going to tread together. The serene hill stations mentioned here would help provide an intimate honeymoon for couples while the thrilling adventure spots, verdant nature and mesmerizing mountain lakes all conspire to deliver a memorable vacation for them to take back home.

Munnar – Rejuvenate your affair with the hills

At Munnar, couples can lie in the lap of luxury and enjoy some of the best days of their life together. If the marriage is during the hot summer months, then a honeymoon at Munnar would definitely be the newest and best chapter in their lives. The lush scenery on offer at Munnar would provide them with the much needed refuge and seclusion. Munnar has some of the best plush properties on offer. If you want privacy, silence and plenty of good scenery, you can come here and enjoy your honeymoon with your partner. Munnar is buzzing with tea gardens, flower shows, lakes and waterfalls, apart from the serene countryside. The best time to visit Munnar would be during the September to May period.

Also Read:

Top 16 Things to do in Munnar

Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala

Ooty– Beauty Personified

Ooty is the one of the most preferred honeymoon destination and celebrated hill stations for couples starting their life together. With its perfect assortment of adventure and recreation, Ooty in the Nilgiri hills has the capacity to give you the best vacation of your life. Trekking, hand gliding, angling and of course, boating are some of the activities young couples indulge in. The extensive grasslands and the soaring mountains conjure up beautiful images that you can feast your eyes on. While on a tour along the coffee plantations, you can sip on the aromatic coffee and enjoy a lovely nature trek with your partner. The best time to visit Ooty would be anytime.

Also Read:

Best Luxury Hotels in Ooty

Kodaikanal – Forever wed locked in nature’s embrace

Kodaikkanal, with its sylvan beauty is one of the best and most frequented hill stations in South India. Located on the southern part of Palani Hills, you would be mesmerized by the incredible beauty of the place, the Kodaikkanal lake and its water lilies. The breathtaking backdrops at Kodaikkanal make this spot the ideal location for photography. Apart from securing certain incredible photography moments, honeymooners can indulge in adventurous activities and visit Silver Cascade and Bear Shola Falls, Coaker's Walk, Guna Cave, Shenbaganur Museum and Berijam Lake as well. The best time to visit Kodaikkanal would be September to May period.

Also Read:

Places to Visit in South India for Summer Holidays

Coorg– A ringside view of nature’s theater

You can guess the beauty and magnificence of Coorg by the fact that it was called the ‘Scotland of the South’ by the Britishers once. Ensconced among vibrant hill ranges, visitors can wake up to the aromatic punch of freshly made coffee while staying at the resorts at Coorg. Mornings are the most beautiful at Coorg, so make sure you don't miss them. That's when the mountains at Coorg rendezvous with the stunning skies and whisper sweet nothings. The best time to visit Coorg would be during the October to April period.

Also Read:

Best Places to Visit in Karnataka

Ultimate Romantic Vacation Ideas in India

Yercaud – Immerse in a  picturesque Aura

Photo Source

Yercaud on the Shevaroys Hills of the Eastern Ghats in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu is a very famous honeymoon destination. Apart from visiting the mesmerizing waterfalls, mesmerizing lakes and well-maintained parks, you can feast your eyes on the colonial buildings. The occasional drizzles add to the charm and beauty of the breathtaking vistas at Yercaud. An alluring destination, the best time to visit Yercaud would be during the September to May period.

Also Read:

Best Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Ananthagiri Hills – Where you can hum a tune of joy

Image by  Nishant Shah via Flickr

Ananthagiri Hills in Andhra Pradesh promises a panoramic vista of breathtaking beauty for honeymooners looking for a perfect respite during the blistering summer months. Experience the lovely aroma emanating from the coffee plantations, the mysterious enveloping mangroves, cascading waters falling uninterrupted into their ravine while vacationing at Ananthagiri Hills. The salubrious weather makes it a gorgeous vacation spot for both tourists and couples alike. The best time to visit Ananthagiri Hills would be anytime.

Also Read:
Top Places to Visit in Andhra Pradesh

Best Hill Stations in India

Kudremukh – Magnetized at horse-shoe peak

Image by  Karunakar Rayker via Flickr

You can spark a connection with your partner at the pristine rivers, mesmerizing lakes and rolling hills at Kudremukh, a serene destination for honeymooners. Kudremukh, located at Karnataka, has a peak shaped like a horseshoe, hence the name. Also, it provides the perfect retreat for honeymooners as it is located away from the concrete jungle and away from all those busy city sounds. Kudremukh is well  known for its rich biodiversity, but still one of the best and most unexplored honeymoon destinations in South India. Apart from the sun-kissed beaches of Devbagh, Tilmatti, Karwar, Belekeri and Binaga, you can head to Unchalli Waterfalls, Satoddi Falls, Kadambi Waterfalls,  Magod Falls and Hanmangundi Water Falls for some frolicking fun. The best time to visit Kudremukh would be anytime.

Nandi Hills - Lover’s delight

Nandi Hills is a favored spot for honeymooners because of its stunning, mesmerizing beauty and secluded spots. There might be plenty of other honeymooners at Nandi Hills, but you still get your privacy with your partner here. The destination gets its name because the hills are shaped like a sleeping bull. Once upon time, these hills served as the best getaway resort for Tipu Sultan, and now it is the hottest destination for couples. Apart from enjoying the beauty of rich mountain valleys, you would find several rejuvenating spots at Nandi Hills, all complete with steep slopes, sharp hairpin turns and even some historic spots like Tipu's Drop. The Amrita Samovar is one of the main attractions of Nandi Hills. The best time to visit Nandi Hills would be anytime.

Vagamon – Experience the joy of solitude

Image by jitin914 via Flickr

Vagamon has evolved to be the perfect retreat for honeymooners, thanks to its pristine air, enthralling views and undulating hills. The beauty of Vagamon can never be expressed through words, but experienced through every pore of your being. This is where couples replenish their energies and go back home, fully charged and happy. The best time to visit Vagamon would be during the September to May period.

Vythiri – A destination for lovers

Not many couples have started visiting Vythiri, the stunning location at Sylvan Northern High ranges of Kerala yet. So you can enjoy some of the best time with your partner and not be bothered by the regular holiday crowd. There are about 150 acres of eco-friendly ranges for couples to enjoy and it is entirely secluded, pollution-free, relaxing and refreshing. Hence, you can enjoy not just a lovely jungle getaway, but you can also enjoy the true beauty of nature. You would be truly mesmerized by the orchestra of nature sounds that you can hear from your rooms. The best time to visit Vythiri would be during the September to May period. 

Also Read:

Best Luxury Hotels in Kerala

Author Bio:

Sunu Phililp is the Inbound Marketing and Creative Head for Paradise Holidays, Cochin - a Kerala based tour operator. She loves reading, exploring new places and trying out new cuisines!

Most Interesting Facts about Maharajas Express

November 19, 2015, 4:17 am

≫ Next: Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer

≪ Previous: The Best Hill Stations in South India for Honeymoon

$

0

0

One of the most popular luxury trains of India, Maharajas’ Express is the most recent one too. The luxury train offers five pan-Indian journeys including the most vibrant destinations, wonderful tourist attractions, breathtaking views and offering a sneak-peak into the time-honored heritage legacy of India. The journey includes a stay on -board this luxury train which is filled with world-class modern luxuries and has a royal touch in its décor as well as hospitality.

Maharajas Express: Luxury Train Travel in India

Managed by the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the extravagant Maharajas’ Express started in the year 2010. The 5 celebrated journeys of the train either start or conclude in Delhi and include a visit to Agra’s Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In the morning during every journey, the train chugs into a new destination, gets stationed at the city’s off-rail railway tracks. The visit includes sightseeing of prime destinations and attractions, special meals at hotels, royal residencies, shopping, folk performances and more. While 2 journeys include the very popular Golden Triangle tour destinations (Delhi, Jaipur and Agra), clubbed with wildlife at Ranthambore, the other 3 journeys include prime destinations of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and more.

The makers of the train carriages have taken their cue from the individual carriages of the erstwhile Royalty of India. The interiors boast of the same grandeur that is clubbed with modern luxurious conveniences. World-class comforts and the royal taste of the past have been amalgamated seamlessly on-board this luxury train of India, offering a 5-star stay to its guests.

The meals served on-board this Indian luxury train are a food connoisseur’s delight. The train has 2 restaurant coaches- Rang Mahal (Color Palace) and Mayur Mahal (Peacock Palace). The cutlery and plates are superb Limoges with gold linings on the edges, the cutlery carries the monogram of alphabet M and the glasses are festooned with special Swarovski hand-cut precious stones. The guests can savor sumptuous delicacies from a vast variety of Indian and popular World fares.

If all these temptations are not enough to allure you aboard the Maharaja Express, here are some other interest facts about this royal luxury train:

Maharajas’ Express has been voted World’s ‘Leading Luxury Train’ at the World Travel Awards, thrice- consecutively in 2012, 2013 and 2014. The train has won several other accolades and awards since its inception, the recent being the Seven Stars 2015 for the category ‘Luxury Hospitality and Life style Awards’.

• This luxury train also found its name in the list of World’s Top 25 Trains, by The Society of International Railway Travelers.

• Maharaja Express is flaunted as being the most luxurious train not only in Asia but also one of the most costly on earth.

• This luxury train chugs of for a memorable journey of 7 nights and 8 days or 3 nights and 4 days on every Wednesday.

• Maharajas’ Express is a kilometer lone with 14 guest carriages, named after precious stones like Heera (diamond), Moti (Pearl), Neelam (Blue Sapphire), Monga (Coral), Feeroza (Turquoise),  Pukhraj (Sapphire) and so on.

• This luxury train of India traverses through the country’s landscape, offering 5 meticulously-planned journeys and covering over 12 exciting destinations.

• Maharajas’ Express, the Indian luxury train has a total of spacious 23 carriages used as guest carriages, restaurant carriages, bar carriages, generator, parlor, and store autos.

• The 5 journeys offer a mélange of thrilling and memorable experiences such as a visit to Taj Mahal in Agra, exploring erotica at Khajuraho temples, meeting the big cats at Ranthambore,  a visit to the World Heritage Sites of Fatehpur Sikri, Ajanta and Ellora Caves etc., Elephant Polo Match in Jaipur, early morning boat ride in Varanasi and more.

• The other interesting feature is that all the journeys of Maharajas’ Express start and end either in Delhi or Mumbai. Both the metropolitan city are very well-connected by air, by rail and by road to the important destinations of Indian and World.

• Stay on-board the extravagant Maharajas’ Express is an unforgettable experience where guests can avail the benefits of a 5 star luxury hotel. The list of facilities and amenities include choice between double and twin beds, en-suite bathroom with premium toiletries, DVD player, central air-conditioning, LCD, Live TV, Direct dial telephone with international calling, Wi-Fi accessibility, butlers, electronic safe, and so on.

Related Post:
Luxury Train Travel in India: Maharajas Express
Top 10 Luxury Train Journeys in the World
30 Mind Blowing Facts About Indian Railways That You Have Never Heard

Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer

November 26, 2015, 3:56 am

≫ Next: Luxurious 'Make in India' New Train Coaches by Indian Railways

≪ Previous: Most Interesting Facts about Maharajas Express

$

0

0

Subtly mixing history, architecture, elegance and culture is this amazing city of palaces, Jaisalmer. Located nearly 575 kilometers away from the capital of the state, this remote territory is brimming with a unique charm-a charm that any quintessential desert city would possess. Exclusive hues, cultures, structures and lifestyles define its elements as the nearby “Great Indian Desert” Thar cast its golden radiance into which the entire place seems to be subdued. 

A stunning place to visit in Rajasthan on your North Indian Sojourn, Jaisalmer will take you on an exotic ride to let you experience its incredible vibrancy, its unique tastes and its fascinating peoples. From visiting the city’s historical landmarks to getting to know its astonishing stories and history, here are our list of Top Things to Do in Jaisalmeror  Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer....

1. Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort is the central and most important icon of the city. Rising from the sandy desert plains, in all its majestic splendor, the fort looms in all its glory with massive battlements, thick walls of crenelated sandstone and has about 99 bastions around its imposing façades. The city was founded by Raja Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti ruler, who ruled somewhere around 1156 AD. 

Today the Fort is one of the most important tourist spots and still houses the following generations of the original inhabitants of the city. Inside amidst the crumbling shacks and colorful stalls one may find instances of exquisite architecture in its numerous havelis and various other structures. 

The wells within the fort are still an important water source. Being situated on the top of the trikuta hill, the fort immediately commands attention. It has many gates and the structure within is beautifully embellished with mansions and palaces, sandstone figures, delicate pavilions, beautiful balconies. The fort stands nearly five stories tall and is frequented by both local and international travelers.

Read More:
Hill Forts of Rajasthan: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Best Luxury Hotels in Jaisalmer

2. Camel Safari

Camel Safari in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

A camel safari is one of the best way to explore the vast sands dunes and stretches of isolation and remoteness as far as the eyes can go. There are a number of tour operators that arrange these safaris, from a single day sojourn to excursions for over a month during which necessary items like food, water and shelter etc. are taken along. An escort is most certainly provided while most operators also ensure local entertainment for the guests in the evening. 

For most of the travelers, this is one of the most memorable experience of Jaisalmer or may be of India as well. Enjoying the local culture, views and sights during the day while sleeping under the canopy of stars at night is wonderfully amazing. Therefore, camel safaris are also most eagerly looked forward by the tourists and it is usually their first impression of the city. Thus, this amazing experience should not be missed.

3. Gadsisar Lake

Gadsisar Lake - A scenic rainwater lake surrounded by small temples and shrines.

Located on the outskirts of the main Jaisalmer town, Gadsisar Lake is another of the major tourist attractions for the people arriving in “The Golden City”. The Lake, however, is not an oasis but in fact a water conservation project, established around 1400 A.D by the then maharaja of Jaisalmer, Maharwal Gadsi Singh. At that time it served as the only water supply for the Jaisalmer town and due to its natural inclination and surroundings, also furnished as a site for rainwater conservation.

In later years, however, a number of temples and religious shrines were added around it and it gained prominence as more of a pilgrimage spot. Now popular as a tourist point, visitors can venture out to the Lake in winters and if they are lucky enough, can get to see a variety of migratory as well as local birds, who descend here due to its proximity to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Do not forget to carry a good pair of binoculars and a quality camera to capture some really stunning pictures, catching the mesmerizing essence of the place. 

4. Sam Sand Dunes

Camel Safari in Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer

Any excursion to the town of Jaisalmer is incomplete without venturing out to see the great deserts of Rajasthan and the Sam Sand Dunes is just the place to arrive for that. Sam has some really spectacular views of expansive sand dunes and layers upon layers of sand, stretching as far as the eye could see, with little or no vegetation dotting the area. 

Therefore, it’s a perfect place to enjoy the Desert Safari, which is organized here for travelers and guests, and is a leading tourist attraction. Visitors can join the Camel Safaris, taking them deep within the heart of Thar, where pitched tents are fastened, allowing them a comprehensive Indian desert experience. Watching the sun set behind the horizon and observing the fantastic view of the stars rising in the sky is breathtaking. 

During the months of February and March, entire area turns into a cultural hotspot with a number of festivals and events being organized, showcasing the colorful Rajasthani glory and way of life. Numerous attractions like various cultural competitions, camel races, folk dance performances, puppet shows other such festivities are hugely favored amongst the locals and travelers who turn up here to revel thoroughly in the surrounding ambience and a unique and distinct atmosphere, eminently characteristic of the area.

Read More:
Jaisalmer: A Gleaming Jewel in the Desert Realm of Rajasthan

5. Be a foodie!

Delicious Traditional thali from Jaisalmer

Rajasthan is one of most amazing places to enjoy incredible delicacies which are characteristic of the region and are especially appetizing and lip-smacking. There are delicious varieties for both vegetarian and non-vegetarians and street food is famous throughout the city. For vegetarians, there is delectable Ker Sangri, a dish made with desert beans and capers, while daal bhati churma is acclaimed throughout the country and then Panchkoot, which is a five desert vegetarian dish, cooked in yoghurt. 

For Non-Vegetarians, laal mass is a favorite, which is a meal of lamb cooked in hot chilli peppers. Due to hot weather in Rajasthan for most of the part of the year, a drink of cool lassi with a lot of cream pervades everywhere in the market while a delight of ladoos made of gram flour are always there to please your sweet tooth.

6. Jaisalmer Desert Festival

Attracting tourists and explorers from far and wide across the country and the world, The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a major highlight of the city, which is loaded with amazing draws and extravaganzas to keep you busy and thrilled on your vacation. Cultural events organized during the Festival include camel races, turban tying competitions and the best of all- the tournament to judge the best moustache of all. 

Over the course of three days during which the festival is celebrated, numerous folk songs and dance performance are organized that focus on the traditions and heritage of Rajasthan. Contests such as the turban tying and moustache competition are especially popular amongst the foreigners. 

Another famous draw of the festival is the daredevil acts of fire dancers which are very much favored. This exotic and colorful affair finally comes to an end with a musical performance by folk singers under the moonlit sky on the Sam sand dunes, just outside the Jaisalmer City. 

In addition to the enjoying at the festival, tourists can take camel safaris for Thar and revel in the picturesque desert views and get entertained by the local folk performances. The event is organized with all the necessary and through arrangements keeping in mind the comfort and experience of the tourists. There are specially installed tourist help cells for foreign guests while medical emergency vans are parked to attend to any casualty. Thus, tourists can have all the fun and adventure with a free mind and without stress.

7. Salim Singh Ki Haveli

Source

Constructed with a unique structure with an amazingly elegant architecture, Salim Singh ki Haveli is quite an attraction. The haveli which stands today at the site is built on an older haveli which was a late 17th century structure. The present structure was commissioned in 1815 by Salim Singh who was the Prime Minister of the kingdom, of which the Jaisalmer City was the capital at that time. The haveli is adorned with an excellent and magnificent design.

The roof of the structure is built in the form of a peacock while the front facet resemble the shape of a ship stern, due to which the building is also called the Jahaz Mahal. There are in total of 38 balconies all with a distinct and intricately designed framework and style. Like all havelis dotting the area, Salim Singh ki Haveli is also embellished with sand-stone made tuskers which look quite charming. The site remain open from early morning till 5 in the morning and remains buzzed with visitors all throughout the day.

8. Khaba Fort

Source

Though almost a ruined structure now, Khaba fort was once a bustling area of residence of nearly 80 families of Paliwal Brahmins, who lived here for nearly two hundred years. However, for reasons unknown or best known to them, they deserted the place all at once and went on to settle somewhere else, the location of which is again not known. 

Therefore the place has a spooky connotations and the silence looming around the area feels mysterious sometimes. Although the place has not been isolated and deserted for always, but the story still invokes enigma and puzzle.  Nevertheless, the fort has now been converted into a museum and a site for exhibiting ancient village art and talent. Visitors can see hundreds of peacocks pervaded around the ruins that makes a pleasant sight. Otherwise, a wonderful dose of history awaits them by moving around the location and seeing the traces of lifestyles and habits of people who lived here centuries ago.

9. Patwon Ki Haveli

Patwon Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer

Patwon ki Haveli is one of the most important structures in Jaiselmer, being one of the most architecturally rich and historically valuable Havelis in the city. The structure assumes importance, primarily due to the fact that it was the first haveli constructed in Jaisalmer and also it is an assembly of 5 havelis constructed together, which is unique. The first of these structures, which is also the biggest grandest of all, was constructed in 1805 and 5 more stories were added later on. The whole edifice was however completed in about 60 years’ time. 

Today, it is a frequently visited spot and attract visitors to its threshold due to its exquisite architecture and elegant views. It is however currently in use and office of both The Archeological Survey of India and the State’s Art and Craft department are located inside the building itself. But its frequent use and consumption notwithstanding, it still has enough charm in the form of beautiful paintings, mirror world and elegant depictions on the walls to captivate its admirers. 

10. Gangaur Festival

Gangaur Festival in Jaisalmer

Gangaur festival is one of the most famous and cherished festival in Rajasthan that is celebrated with great pomp and fervor and is eagerly awaited by the locals. The festival is organized in the honor of Hindu deities of Lord Shiva and His Consort Lord Parvati from whose names the name of the festival is derived. The festival is mainly celebrated by the womenfolk who worship Goddess Parvati, praying for the welfare, success and long life of their husbands while unmarried girls pray for a good-looking and understanding partner. 

During the festival, women and girls keep a fast and decorate themselves with new clothes, jewelry and apply henna on their hands and feet. On the 7th day of the festival, women carry earthen pots which has several holes in it, on their heads and sing the praise of their Gods, while they are given gifts in the form of money, sweets, jaggary, etc. as a gift of love by the elders of the family. On the 10th day, according to the ritual, women break the pots and their pieces are thrown into a well or a tank, while the idols made by them are also immersed in the same. 

A grand procession takes place which incorporates colorful elephant shows, bullock carts, palanquins combined with the folk dance and performance by the artists. The festival attracts many tourists from in and outside the state to witness the vibrant atmosphere. It is celebrated in the month of Chaitra according to the Hindu calendar, which falls between March and April according to the Gregorian calendar.

Read More:
Best Luxury Hotels in Jaisalmer

11. Bada Bagh

A stunning view of the Bada Bagh in Jaisalmer

 A site of admirable structures and spots, Bada Bagh or literally the “The Big Garden” is a prominent tourist destination within Jaisalmer and has wonderful frames and complexes within its environs. Bada Bagh was ordered by Maharwal Jait Singh in the early 16th century but was completed by his son Lunakaran after his demise. Bada Bagh primarily has three major attractions; A garden, a tank and a dam. Besides there is a central pillar called Govardhan Stambh, which was built to commemorate the construction of the dam and the tank. 

The most enormous structure is however the dam measuring about 1200 feet by 350 feet. Another major highlight of the Bada Bagh is the number of beautifully carved Cenotaphs scattered all over the area. These cenotaphs or chattris as they are called locally are structures representing the rulers of the area, oldest amongst it being that of Maharwal Jait Singh himself who ruled somewhere around 1470-1506. The unique historical significance of the area combining with the allure of its surrounding area draws a large number of travelers to this place.

12. Maharaja’s Palace

Maharaja's Palace in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Located at the main chowk (square) of the city, The Maharaja’s Palace is an elegant structure of five stories with carefully crafted stone balconies and window arches, making it one of the famous traveler destinations in the city of Jaisalmer. The Place or Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum and Heritage Center, as it is now officially called, was the erstwhile residence of the Maharaja or Rajmahal but was later converted into a museum and heritage center. 

The museum now exhibits various specimen, models and artefacts of the centuries of Rajput period, showcasing the cultural heritage, history and accomplishments of a wonderful era. The palace is open from 9 am to 6 pm for visitors and entry fees is nominal which incorporates the camera charges and charges for the audio guided tour. The topmost point of the palace is one of the highest points in the Jaisalmer city, offering a wonderful panoramic view of the entire area, which looks mesmerizing. Visitors are advised to arrive early to the site to avoid delays and rush which gather in the later part of the day.

13. Tanot Mata Temple

Tanot Mata Temple in Jaisalmer

The incredible rendezvous of Indians with magic and supernatural have been known since the time immemorial and there are numerous tales of such kind in the popular folklore throughout its history. Tanot Mata Temple is also associated with one such fascinating story due to which it has now become a popular tourist spot for the curious visitors, both local and international. According to the legend, during the contentious India-Pakistan War of 1965, the Pakistani Army dropped several bombs to destroy the temple, fortunately and surprisingly none of which hit the temple.

Moreover, several bombs which fell in the vicinity of the temple did not even explode. Thus, the temple came to known in the area as acquainted with divine or magical powers. After the war, the management of the temple was handed over to India’s Border Security Force, whose jawans (soldiers) now man the temple. The temple now has a museum that showcases the several of the objects reminiscent of the war including the diffused and unexploded bombs.

14. Kuldhara Chudail Trail (Visit the ghost town)

One of the most popular sites in Jaisalmer, Kuldhara Chudail Trail is associated with one of the most mysterious and incredible tales which has been source of wonder and amazement for the visitors arriving in the town. Though the site now lies in the ruins, the legend associated with it has such a charm, which has made Kuldhara, a frequently visited tourist destination. The story connected to the place goes like this: Kuldhara was the dwelling place of Paliwal Brahmins since the 12th century. The village was well-planned with perpendicular streets, ending in houses along with proper rural facilities for water etc. 

However, after living in the place for many generations, one night the villagers suddenly vanished without a trace. Questions like where and why did they go kept scientists, historians and ordinary people puzzled for a long time. However, a story that is conjectured about Kuldhara is that the minister in the kingdom ruling at that time saw the young daughter of the village head at that time and wanted to marry her. He forced a 24-hour ultimatum on them to either marry the girl to him or he will forcefully enter the village and take the girl off. 

It was for saving the pride and honor of their daughter that the heads of all the 84 villages met and decided to abandon the area. But questions like how did they managed to flee all at once, that no one saw them go and could not find where they went still baffles many people who visit and get to know about Kuldhara. Out of curiosity or allure of the spooky, the place has become a famous spot and a station for offbeat travelers to Jaisalmer.

15. Paliwal Villages and the Silk Route

The Paliwal Brahmins were one of the important and well-known people of Rajasthan who used to dwell around 11th to 16th century, in this part of the state. They were merchants and part time cultivators who designed and developed indigenous irrigation systems which are still useful for the modern generation in cultivating crops like bajra, chana and vegetables in the desert region. Besides, the Paliwals were also successful businessmen and traded in various items along the famous Silk Route with China and the Middle East. 

But unfortunately one day, their drinking water supply was poisoned and they all left the village and abandoned it. However, traces of their life, history, and their irrigation systems etc. are still conspicuous here and demonstrates a flourishing city and society. Thus, the site provides an important dose of history to the tourists and archeological students arriving here to witness or study the ruins.

16. Jain Temples

Also included in the itinerary of the tourists thronging to the Jaisalmer town are the number of Jain Temples, located within the premises of the Jaisalmer Fort. These Jain Temples are very old (dating back to 12th and 15th century) and are an important part of pilgrimage with some archeological significance attached to them. Dedicated to the various Jain Tirthankaras (Spiritual Heads), one may easily find various animal and human figures carved on the walls. 

The temples are constructed in the famous Dilwara style of architecture and are carved out of yellow sandstone in such a style as to furnish you divine peace and harmony. The temple gates are open for visitors throughout the morning till 12 in the noon. It also hosts a library, called the Gyan Bhandar Library, which contains some of the rare manuscripts belonging to the history. 

 17. Retail Therapy or Shopping in Jaisalmer

A trip to any city in Rajasthan would be incomplete without taking a part of the city with you in the form of gifts and souvenirs for yourself and your near and dear ones. There is a whole variety of goods, items, show-pieces and durables etc. you can purchase from Jaisalmer. The city is famous for numerous items such as embroidery, rugs, blankets, Rajasthani mirror work, antiques and old stone work. There are both government run as well as private shops, but purchasing from any government run store will get you a better deal. 

Gifts items such as tiny, intricately-carved wooden boxes are a popular take away besides other famous items like shawls, weaves and blankets, traditional rugs etc. find a lot of buyers. Famous bazaars from where you can pick up these items are Sadar Bazar, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazar, Sonaron ka Bass, Seema Gram, Gandhi Darshan, Khadi Gramudyog Emporium in addition various government shops. The markets are particularly buzzed during the festival times like Rakhi, Holi, Diwali, Navratri etc. where one can actually witness the vibrancy and energy of the beautiful and exquisite Rajasthani Culture.

18. Vyas Chhatri

Vyas Chhatri in Jaisalmer

Vyas Chattri is an assemblage of little, elaborately designed canopies of golden colored sandstone, which is a popular sunset point for people arriving in Jaisalmer. It was in fact used as a “Cremation Place” for the dead bodies of Pushkarana Brahmins over which artistic cenotaphs were built. Later on as this practice came to an end, the place became popular as a sunset point. 

The site is mainly a calm and serene point and watching the sunset from this spot is an amazing and memorable experience. Vyas Chattri is located at Bara Bagh, about a kilometer away from the main Jaisalmer city. Designed with an intricate and refined carvings, the site is named after the Sage Vyas, who wrote the famous Indian epic of Mahabharatha. This 15th century spot is now a tourist destination and is full of mesmerizing art and close carvings. 

19. The Thar Heritage Museum

Moving around Jaisalmer and catching sight of its various spots, one will come across The Thar Heritage Museum, a private museum founded and guided by a local historian and folklorist Mr. L.N Khatri. The museum hosts an amazing collection of items ranging from musical instruments, turbans, artefacts including coins, post-cards, ancient manuscripts, weapons and various sea fossils of over millions of years ago as well as kitchen equipment to be displayed on marriage, birth and death and opium customs.

A major attraction at the museum is the daily one hour puppet show at 6.30 PM organized with the narration of Mr. Khatri. The museum remains open for visitors from Saturday to Thursday from 10.00 AM to 5 PM and is an interesting place to visit.

20. NathMal Ki Haveli

Nathmal ji ki Haveli - One of the most amazing and interesting structures in Jaisalamer

Nathmal ji ki Haveli is one of the most amazing and interesting structures in Rajasthan which was commissioned initially by the Maharwal Beri Sal and which was to be the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, who was the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. The Haveli was designed by the architect duo of Hathi and Lulu who also happened to be brothers. Complementing its intriguing structure is an interesting tale delighting the heart.

It is said that the two brothers started the construction of the building simultaneously with different facets. However, since in those days there was no means to match and track the continuity, the final structure of the building turned out to be of irregular shape. Apart from this there are many other aspects of the building worth appreciating, particularly the minute detailed work and pictures of horses, cattle and flora depicted on the walls. 

Another aspect of the haveli worth noticing is the illustration of modern (relative to those times) amenities like cars, fans etc. on the walls which the architects had never seen but only heard of. The life-size sandstone elephants located outside are amazing to observe. Overall a classic structure worth a tourist spot that should not be missed.

[ Check out Jaisalmer tour packages at IndianHoliday.com ]  

Related Post:

Top 12 Tourist Attractions in Jaipur
Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Udaipur

Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan
Best Palace Hotels in Rajasthan
Jodhpur Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit in India

---

Luxurious 'Make in India' New Train Coaches by Indian Railways

November 30, 2015, 4:35 am

≫ Next: Top 5 Luxury Cruises in India

≪ Previous: Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer

$

0

0

If you always thought that traveling through Indian Railways is a bad idea because of the debauched condition of the trains, you will definitely change your mind after reading this blog. Trains of Indian Railways have always been criticized for dirty toilets, torn bed sheets, cockroaches, small births and more. But, the scene is completely going to chance as Indian Railways has introduced New Make in India train coaches, looking at par with the coaches of luxury trains, for changing the way the people will travel. The most remarkable features of new Indian Railway Train Coaches:

Capacious, Larger Berths and Jerk-less Seats

While the seats are now going to more capacious, the berths too are going to be bigger than before. A new feature of tray tables has also been added. The special design of the seats has ensured that the seats are structured in such a manner that they are jerk-resistant. The new seats are fire-resistant too as they are made from special poly-vinyl fabric. Along with this, all the seats are now going to have holders to keep water, installed right next to them. There is no more need for you to look beyond your seat to place you bottle of Rail Neer.

Better Security

Fire has been a consistent problem for the Indian Railways, and this issue now has been dealt with by placing quality-tested fire extinguishers at both the ends of a compartment. Now, it has been made sure that if fire breaks at any place of the train compartment, an extinguisher would be handy to put down the fire quickly. A regular check would be conducted on these extinguishers so that they remain usable at the required hour.

Middle Berths sans Chains

Railings and side-supports have now taken the place of thick irritating chains that were given in middle births. These thick chains were put into use so that the middle berth stays in its place and hanged from the top berth.

New Bio Toilets

The Indian Railway’s new Make in India scheme is surely a blessing. The smelly and dirty toilets will now be replace from eco-friendly Bio toilets. This is an efficient way of discharging human waste, away from railway tracks. And yes, soaps will be kept in the toilets on time and dustbins will be cleared on a regular basis.

Superior Looking Compartments

A lovely brighter color palette is going to welcome you in the compartments that were earlier were dull blue. Colorful curtains and upholstery have been added to the compartments. Even the floor now has been painted in similar colors, which looks like a carpet. The dirty looking floor has been revamped with matching colors giving the compartment an upgraded look as carpet was not a financially feasible idea.

More Charging Points

The condition of charging points are in a pretty sad state currently. Finding a working charging point in a train is a very tough task. The new compartments are now going to have separate charging points for laptops and cell phones. Another amazing feature would be seats with LED lights specially for reading purpose.

Better Seats in Chair Cars Compartments

Better ergonomic seats with proper arm rest and lumber with a table would now be present in the Chair car compartments. Tables would be placed between the seats facing each other. The present scene is that the Shatabdi trains have the most comfortable chairs. As per the new scheme, similar kind of comfortable seats would be added in other trains too.

On a trial basis, a successful run of these 24 coaches has been done between Bhopal railway station and Bina railway station. There are plans to manufacture more of such 11 coaches that would include 15 AC coaches for 3 tier, 87 non AC coaches, chair car coaches, five for AC 2 tier and one each for AC 1 tier. First of all, these coaches would be introduced in the ISO-certified trains and Rajdhani Expresses all around the country. In the second phase of the Indian Railways’ new Make in India scheme, the Coach Rehabilitation Workshop at Nishaputra, Bhopal is going to manufacture executive chair car class coaches for the Shatabdi trains.

Related Post:
Top Mind Blowing Facts About Indian Railways
Why Choose Indian Railways for Traveling in India 
How to Book Train Ticket in India 
Top 25 Scenic Train Routes in India 

Top 5 Luxury Cruises in India

December 3, 2015, 2:01 am

≫ Next: Places to Visit in North East India

≪ Previous: Luxurious 'Make in India' New Train Coaches by Indian Railways

$

0

0

Even for the most affluent of the individuals, who might have experienced top of the line luxury and extravagance, the allure of a luxury cruise is undeniable. The amazing services, combined with the close emphasis on detail and priority for the satisfaction and enjoyment for the guests is something which cannot be ignored in case of these cruise ships when they are compared to the ordinary liners. There was a time when luxury cruises was some kind of a dream for an ordinary individual and only few could afford this extravaganza. However, with the introduction of Luxury Cruises within the exotic locales of India, this dream became much more accessible.

Some of these liners, such as The Oberoi MV Vrinda, River Ganges Heritage Cruise, and The Sunderbans Luxury Cruise etc. have over the time gained much popularity within the tourist community for their excellent services, amazing comfort and abundant leisure to provide the visitors an incredible time that will remain indelible from their mind for a long time. So, in addition to the luxury cruises mentioned above, which are the other ships in the line for such an incomparable indulgent experience on the waters of India and in the wonderfully exquisite locations? Let’s find out the Top 5 Luxury Cruises in India in the following article. 

Sunderbans Luxury Cruise

The Sunderbans is one of the largest reserve of mangrove ecosystem and a declared 1985 UNESCO World heritage site. Being one of the most beautiful places on Earth, the location is a heaven of tremendous natural beauty, astonishing sites, exotic wildlife with a varied diversity of birds, reptiles, invertebrate species and of course the Royal Bengal Tiger and numerous water channels, creeks and streams flowing through its extensive area.

A sojourn through this incredible wealth of nature combined with memorable creek rides, thrilling forest walks, exploratory visits to fishermen’s coves and adventurous stopovers at the watch towers is one of the most cherished wishes for many. Bringing you this magical and exciting trip subdued in amazing luxury and amenities is Sunderbans Luxury Cruise. The fabulous excursion takes you through rambling water channels and creeks, into the serenity of the forests and letting you soak in the incredible ambience. This memorable journey is attended by an excellent hospitality ministered by expert chefs who take care of your appetite and are there to serve your taste buds by bringing you dishes of the recipes from all over the world. 

Moreover, there is a facility of a gym, while soothing your nerves and muscles is the exclusive Ayurveda treatment and massage parlor. Moreover, there is also a library and a bar, a conference room with internet facilities and fax to enable travelers, both leisure and corporate, to have a useful and relaxing time. M.V. Paramhansa, the cruise letting you enjoy the beauty of Sunderbans is a spacious vessel, approximately 53 m in length with a total number of 32 cabins. All the rooms come with air condition and has the facility of attached bathrooms for the convenience of the guests. With 12 luxury rooms on the first deck and 20 deluxe rooms on the main deck, other attached amenities include a telephone, tea and coffee maker, ample reading stuff and also an emergency kit. With such a marvelous reception, comfort and luxury in such a wonderful setting is definitely an experience of a lifetime.  

[Plan your Sunderbans Cruise]  

The Oberoi M.V. Vrinda Cruise

The Oberoi M.V Vrinda is one of the most luxurious, private accommodations available on the backwaters of Kerala. Decked with fully furnished deluxe cabins with king-sized beds, paneled with shining teak flooring and filled with natural light, these cabins have been designed keeping the comfort and convenience of the guests in mind and are fixed with all the latest equipment and provided with top of the level services. These include a 42” LCD television, a DVD player, an electronic safe and internationally compatible plug points as well as other complimentary service include a 24-hour personal butler, hi-speed Wi-Fi and an in house entertainment system. 

The in-house restaurant is a wonderful, all day long eating space, filled with natural light and refreshing air. For the entertainment of the guests, an exquisite seating arrangement is done and they are treated to traditional dance and musical performances. Guests can book the whole boat or a small conference or seminar room for the business and corporate meetings. The Oberoi M V Vrinda Cruise takes you along through the largest backwater stretch, i.e. the Vembanad Lake, the vibrant waterways of Allepy. Within such a beautiful and wonderful settings and conducted with such luxuries and facilities, cruising with The Oberoi M V Vrinda is an experience worth being etched in your mind forever.

[Plan your Oberoi Vrinda Cruise] 

River Ganges Heritage Cruise

One of the greatest heritage and luxury cruises, taking you along one of the greatest rivers in the world-The Ganges, M.V Paramhansa, the luxury cruise ship, is all about grandeur, comfort and style, letting you soak the amazing local ambience around the India’s most sacred river. The exquisite  hospitality on board will strike a chord with the guests as the ship with its 32 spacious, fully furnished rooms with latest of facilities like a telephone connection, reading material, tea and coffee maker etc. will make the guests enjoy the best of their leisure time and will be able to sufficiently relax and unwind themselves. 

Almost all the needs of a luxury vessel has been taken care of in the ship as tourists are treated to the convenience of massage parlor, a gym and a modern library. Travelling by the cruise, one will enjoy an easy pace of life on board with amenities of international standards. On the other hand, for the pleasure of the taste buds, the chefs on the ship will prepare for you some the most appetizing, delectable multi-cuisine dishes for the best of experiences. 

Itinerary of the cruise covers several sites of the eastern part of India which lies along the banks of the Ganges. Tourists will get to see the famous battlefield of Plassey, the sacred site of Navadvip, experience the elegant French ambience of Chandanagar, while they will also sail through the popular and historic cities and town of Kolkata, Dakshineshwar, Belur, Kalna, Mayapur and Murshidabad as well. The Ganges is considered holy for Hindus and has been a cradle for a major civilization of the world. Thus, taking a cruise over this amazing and timeless river is one of the most incredible adventures of a lifetime.  

 [Book your stay at River Ganges Heritage Cruise]

M.V Mahabaahu Cruise

M.V Mahabaahu is a supremely luxury expedition on the mighty Bharamaputra river which flows through the state of Assam and drains into Bay of Bengal. The river spans from 3 to 40 kilometers through Assam and flows under the shadow of the mighty eastern Himalayas, some of which reach a height of imposing 7,400 meters. Visitors get to experience excellent luxury along with the natural beauty around the river within the comfort of two suites, nine superior cabins with attached balconies and 12 superior cabins without balconies. The cruise takes the guests across a range of attractions some of which are beautiful forests, exotic sights, rice paddies of Assam and exquisite Buddhist monasteries and Hindu gurukuls, carrying a tradition of indigenous method of teaching for over 5,000 years. The ship is 55m long and 10 m wide and has 5 decks including one inside the hull and a top deck which is open to sun.

The MV Mahabahu was awarded the Tourism Award for 2012 by the CNBC News Channel. Whether a guest chooses three, five or seven nights down or upstream, they are treated with excellent hospitality and served with some of the most savory, multi-cuisine dishes. Moreover, under the guidance of experienced senior officials, guests can explore the region, browse the ship’s own well-stocked library, enjoy the relaxing board games or even ease off in the ship’s rejuvenating health spas, message facilities and a range of other indulging treatments.

[Book your MV Mahabaahu Cruise Holiday]

Lakshadweep Cruise

Lakshawadweep is one of the most exotic destinations in India rich with amazing diversity of marine life and astonishing sights with expansive sandy beaches, clear and azure sea water and incredible range of the flora and fauna. Making you experience these exquisite views and extraordinary beauty with incomparable comfort is M.V. Kavarati, the fabulous cruise ship designed especially for the Lakshadweep Islands to promote tourism. The 120 meter long ship with a total carrying capacity of 700 passengers and 200 tons of cargo is the largest passenger vessel ever created in India that is built with a total estimated cost of Rs. 173 crore INR. A modern liner fixed with latest comforts and amenities, the ship has a world-class 152-seater cafeteria, a 100-seater dining hall, a gymnasium, a recreation room and a large airspace for the best of the cruise experiences for the guests. 

The vessel has in total of 100 Deluxe Berths and 70 First Class Berths that accommodate enough guests according to their convenience and comfort. Built by Hindustan Shipyard, Vishakapatnam, the ship has a robust structure and a comfortable make up with elegant international standard services. It has independent galleys, halls, swimming pool and a helipad.

The guests are treated to some really delectable and mouthwatering dishes to let them have a memorable journey. Besides, there is a facility of on-call entertainment, doctor on-call, and upper deck promenade as well. Lakshwadeep has in total of 36 islands and is located about 220 km from the Kerala’s Malabar Coast. It is one of the most popular tourist destination and an exotic traveler’s paradise. In addition to the this amazing cruise, travelers can enjoy numerous water sporting activities like boating, kayaking, jet skis, sea swimming, snorkeling and deep sea diving at Lakshwadeep. With such an incredible expedition along with stunningly beautiful views and in the lap of extraordinary luxury is an experience which is hard to miss.

[Book your luxury cruises holidays in India at IndianLuxuryTrains.com]

Related Post 
40 Awesome Ideas for Luxury Holidays in India

Places to Visit in North East India

December 11, 2015, 4:24 am

≫ Next: 20 Tips To Make the Most of Where You Travel

≪ Previous: Top 5 Luxury Cruises in India

$

0

0

North East India is one of the unexplored splendors of the country. Comprising of eight states snuggled in the lap of Himalayas, North East India is truly blessed by nature. The region is also abundant in adventures. High mountain peaks, lush valleys carpeted with tea plantations, misty waterfalls, rainiest place on the Earth, wildlife sanctuaries and a medley of urban and tribal cultures are few of the allures of the region.

1. Places to Visit in Assam

Assam is the gateway to the North East. Home to the ‘Tea Capital of the World’, the beautiful environs of the state has attractions of lush mountains, wilderness, cultural exhibitions and thrilling experiences. Kaziranga National Park is a famous place to visit. Enjoy a cruise to the largest river island in the Brahmaputra River. Relish the sip of warm brewed tea, delicious local food, colorful dances and melodious folk music. The warm amiable people, lavish resorts and hotels create memorable holidays.

Tea Gardens

Lady Tea Pickers in Tea Garden, Assam

The lush tea gardens of Assam are world renowned. Jorhat city has been given the title of the “Tea capital of the World”. Largest supplier of tea is one of the achievements of the state. There are almost 850 tea estates and 2500 tea gardens. Walk through the lush rows of shrubs. The smell of the fresh leaves also works magic on the senses.

Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park in Assam

The Kaziranga National Park in Assam is known for its population of one horned rhinoceros. Safari in the wilderness brings visitors’ close to wild beasts, birds some local and other migrants from as far as Siberia. The wilderness of the national park is perfect for thrilling adventures. There are numerous forest lodges and resorts that offer the perfect mix of relaxation and adventures.

See More: 
Wildlife Vacations in India 
Best Places to go for Wildlife Safaris in India

Kamakhya Temple

Kamakhya Temple in Assam

The divine temple in Assam is dedicate to Kamakhya Devi. Kamrup-Kamakha as the place is popularly known is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths in India. According to legend Sati’s yoni (reproductive organ) fell here after her immolation when Lord Shiva was performing Tandav (dance of destruction). There is no idol here but a yoni structure is worshipped which is moistened by a natural spring. The temple draws pilgrims’ from all over the world.

Majuli River Island

An exotic view of Majuli,Assam

The largest River Island, Majuli is nestled in the waters of River Brahmaputra. 1100 kilometers from the mouth of the river, this unique landscape is home to scenic natural beauty and migratory birds. The islands are a good day trip accessible by ferries from the City of Jorhat. The island is inhabited by tribes who survive the harsh natural calamities. You can take home beautiful masks, pottery and other artifacts as souvenirs from the island. A 3 day spiritual music festival known as Raas Festival draws visitors to the island.

Manas National Park

Manas National Park

Manas National Park at the foothills of the Bhutan-Himalayas in the state of Assam has unique biodiversity and landscape. It is one of the first reserves of Project Tiger in 1973. A substantial population of Royal Bengal Tigers. In 1985, the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary was inscribed as World Heritage Site.  The last species of Pygmy Hog survive in the wilderness of Manas and nowhere else in the world.

[Know more about things to do or browse through Assam tour packages] 

2. Places to Visit in Sikkim

Sikkim is a small state in north east India, bordered by Bhutan, Tibet and Nepal. Part of the Himalayas, the area has a dramatic landscape including India’s highest mountain, 8,586 meters high Mt. Kanchenjunga. The lofty mountains dominate the skyline. Its snow clad peaks, green emerald slopes, rushing streams, tall Rhododendrons and sparkling orchids allure tourists. Hilltop monasteries emerge from the rugged terrains while multi-colored prayer flags wave in the mountain breeze. Explore the untouched natural beauty ad relish the unique culture.

Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery

Considered one of Tibetan Buddhism's most important tourist centers, the magnificent Rumtek Monastery is surely to be explored. It provides as a residence for the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa. The Golden Stupa is the most significant segment of the monastery. Some of the extraordinary works of art are also housed here. The monastery is especially attractive during the Mahakala Dance in February, when giant figurines of protector deities stage a fight with evil demons.

Gangtok

Gangtok

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim is a charming and picturesque town, straddling with striking houses spilling down the hillside. The city has a fusion of traditional customs and modern way of living which makes the place unique. It's a beautiful town with all modern amenities that one can ask for. The city is the base, to plan trips to Tsgomo Lake and treks. Even the city life is charming. Delicious food, cheap drinks, amazing shopping bargains and relaxing ambiance.

See More:
Best Hill Stations in India 

Nathu La

At an altitude of 14200 feet, the pass is located on the Indo-China border. The journey itself is an exhilarating experience, with mist covered peaks, zigzag roads and roaring waterfalls, the passage is simply amazing. Visitors are required to get a permit to visit the place. It was the route of the legendary Silk Route.

Lachung

The picturesque mountain village of Lachung at a height of 8610 feet. Embraced my snowcapped mountain peaks, breathtaking waterfalls, sparkling streams and apple orchards is the perfect holiday destination. Visit the Shingba Rhododendron sanctuary, Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley. The village is the centre of exquisite hand woven rugs and blankets.

Lachen and Yumthang Valley

Lachen is a small pass at an elevation of 2,750 metres in the North East Himalayas. It is the gateway to the holy Guru Dongmar and Tso Lhamu lakes. It is also the base for excursion to Yumthang Valley. The beautiful valley situated is located at a height of 3,500 metres. It is home to many beautiful Himalayan flowers. In the summer months the whole valley is seen carpeted in vibrant blooms.

Pelling

Pelling is rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination. At an altitude of 6800 ft, it's the most excellent place to get a closest view of the world's 3rd highest peak Mt. Kanchenjunga. Apart from the innate beauty of the place, other attractions are the Sanga Choeling Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery and the Khecheopalri Lake. A visit will be cherished.

[Read more with Sikkim travel guide or explore packages] 

3. Places to Visit in Meghalaya

Meghalaya means “The Abode of Clouds”. The hills state is one third covered in forests. The lush environs is known for its biodiversity of mammals, birds, and plants. Home of the wettest place on earth, it is renowned for lush greenery, flora, fauna, living roots bridges, tribals, exciting waterfalls and thrilling adventures. It is a delight to explore and spend holidays in. breathe in the fresh air of mountains, the babble of gushing waters, calls of birds and witness the perfect setting of fairytales.

Shillong

The beautiful capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong is a charming heaven. Known as the Scotland of the East, the city is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. There are many allures to check out. Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Culture, Umiam Water Sports complex, Lady Hydari Park, Ward's Lake, Elephant Falls, Spread Eagle Falls, Laitlum Canyons, David Scott Trail, India Orchidarium and Botanical Garden are few places to visit.

Cherrapunji

The second wettest place on earth, Cherrapunji is blessed with lush natural beauty. The picturesque beauty is a place to relax and enjoy the offerings of nature. Attractions you must not fail to visit are Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Mawmluh Cave, Krem Phyllut Cave, Dain-Thlen Falls, Kynrem Falls, Nohsngithiang Falls, Cherrapunji Theological College at Nongsawlia Thangkharang Park and Khoh Ramhah or Basket of the Giant.

Dawki

Dawki is one of the most beautiful places of Meghalaya snuggled in the Jaintia Hills. Known for the Indo-Bangladesh border crossing, the place is much more than dat. It is blessed with surreal crystal clear blue green waters of Umngot Creek. Only a suspension bridge connects the two hills. A boat race is held every year on the month of February. The scenic beauty is a good place to relax in nature’s lap.

Mawsynram

The wettest place on Earth, Mawsynram is a spectacle of nature. Nature baths with brutal and deafening rain showers Snuggled 1400 metres above sea level it is blessed with lush environs owing to heavy rains. There are numerous attractions to check out in the rainy town. Caves, waterfalls, living roots bridges made of rubber trees are some delights. It is a perfect location to relax.

Mawlynnong

Mawlynnong is named the "Cleanest Village in Asia" by a travel magazine. Also dubbed "God's Own Garden", the village is an outstanding example of community-based eco-tourism. The locals have constructed a remarkable Sky View platform from bamboo atop the highest tree in the forest, nearly 80 feet up. It offers a bird's eye view of the village and panoramic view across to Bangladesh.

[Read more with Meghalaya travel guide or explore packages]  

4. Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh

Land of the Rising Sun, Arunachal Pradesh has many undiscovered places to attract tourists from many parts of the world. Tourist attractions of the North East state include Buddhist monasteries, beautiful natural lakes, bamboo bridges overhanging the river and undiscovered scenic beauties. Rafting and trekking are attractable sports. Explore wilderness in pure form in one of the unexplored national park of India which is home to unique Great Hornbills and Red Giant Flying Squirrel.

Tawang Monastery

Tawang Monastery also known as Galden Namgyal Lhatse dates back to the 17th century. The largest monastery in India is where monks are taught the essence of their religion. The manuscripts are rare and important. Impressive interiors, structure and ambiance is not the only thing of note. The pristine location is awe-inspiring. Situated at an elevation of 10,000 feet above sea level at a picturesque setting of Tawang Valley.

Sela Pass

Source

Sela Pass is the connecting point of Arunachal Pradesh to the rest of the India. The snow covered mountain pass is one of the most beautiful places in India. This mystic motorable pass is nestled at an elevation of 2244 metres above sea level the waters of lakes and rivers are crystal blue, the roads twisting in dangerous angles yet the beauty is spectacular.

Itanagar

Any tour of Arunachal Pradesh is not complete without visiting the state capital Itanagar. The city is replete with attractions. Visit the Ita Fort, an ancient monument belonging to 14th and 15th century. Natural treasures of Ganga Lake, pleasant scenery of lush forests and orchid gardens.  Itanagar wildlife sanctuary which is home to various species. The museum has alluring relics of the tribal heritage of the state. Pleasant resorts and hotels pampers guests with a comfortable stay.

Bomdila

Bomdila is an ideal holiday getaway offering views of snow clad Himalayan mountain range at 8000 feet above sea level. Ideal for family outing, quiet place to romance in solitude and self-exploration, here there are options to spend a cherished time. Enjoy the arts and crafts scene as it is centre of tribal culture. Take home some beautiful souvenirs.

Ziro

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ziro is a blessed natural beauty. The Apatani Plateau offers the city blessed lush scenery. Trekking, camping are the most intriguing delights of the place. Ziro is also the gateway to a number of other attractive spots like Kardo Hills, Talley Valley, Talley Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. An international music event is organized every year. The rock music draws participants and audiences from all over the globe.

[Read more with Arunachal Pradesh travel guide or explore packages]   

5. Places to Visit in Tripura

Tripura is one of the blessed state of North East India. Famous for its cultural treasures, there are numerous ancient temples, cultural centers and the pleasant natural beauty. Ranking as the third smallest state in the country it certainly does not lack in attractions. 19 indigenous tribes call it home with other population. The beautiful capital city, Agartala has various allures for a memorable holiday. Divine temples with roots in mythological tales, unique sculptures and remnants of a glorious empire are some thrilling attractions.

Agartala

The capital city of Tripura, Agartala has the best allures of the state. The city is rich in natural beauty. The tribal and the state culture is well preserved in the museums. The wildlife sanctuaries are home to rare delights of the state. The glorious past and heritage of the state can be seen in their ancient temples, places and other monuments. Any tour of the state remains incomplete without a visit to the city.

Jampui Hills

Jampui hills is the highest hill range of the state. The eco-sphere of the region is blessed with rare species of flora, fauna and endemic species. Clouds creates a mystical and beautiful appearance. Trekking and safari of the hill range is incredible. The views of the panorama are blissful. In the month of November, during the Orange and Tourism Festival, crowds from all over the world reach the place.

Dharmanagar

The second largest city in Tripura, Dharmanagar has a rich past. The heritage treasures are evident from the historic monuments and palaces. The vast stretches of rugged terrains, lush green forests and amazing wildlife create a wonderful a backdrop. Check out the alluring ISKCON temple, Hari Mandir and Shiva Bari. Visit the city during any religious festival and enjoy festivities in regal splendor.

Udaipur City

Udaipur had been a glorious capital of Tripura. The city has heritage and culture that any visitor will love to explore. There are numerous ruined buildings, palaces and holy lakes scattered all over the city. Tripura Sundari temples is a significant temple of the place. The revered site is a famous Kali Temple where devotees come from all over the world.

Kailashahar

Kailashahar is another important site of the treasured heritage of Tripura. Unakoti is the biggest allure of the place. Hundreds of rock cut sculptures lie scattered here. The mystical and revered ruins are the site of many religious festivals. An 11 feet ruined carving of Lord Shiva is one prominent allure. Other attractions are Choudoo Devotar temple, Lakhi Narayan Bari and lush tea estates.

[ Browse through Tripura Tour Packages at IHPL ]

6. Places to Visit in Mizoram

The unexplored gem of North East, Mizoram is spectacular. A land of diverse landscapes, cultures, attractions; this state is blessed. 21 peaks of the Himalayan range of different altitudes are located in these lands. Sharing its boundaries with three states and two countries, it is one of the intriguing holiday destinations. Thrilling adventures, delectable food, rare arts and crafts, vibrant dance and music are other delights. Paddy fields, rolling hills, gurgling waterfalls, unique flora and fauna create the perfect backdrop.

Aizawl

The capital city of Mizoram, Aizawl is the largest city of the state. Located at an altitude of 1132 meters above sea level overlooking valleys and hill ranges. Called the “Home of Highlanders”, it is blessed with cultural richness. The main attractions here are the Durtlang Hills, Bara Bazaar, Mizoram State Museum, and Solomon’s Temple.

Lunglei

The second largest city in the beautiful state of Mizoram, Lunglei is a palette of natural beauty, attractions and delights. Visit the stone bridge Lung-lei after which the city has been named. Apart from this there is the Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary home to the species inhabitaning in the amiable forest cover. The Saikuti Hall is a good place to get a glimpse of the intriguing heritage of the state. Artists exhibit their paintings and also conducts concerts and celebrations.

Kolasib

Kolasib is a small town in Mizoram. Having its own share of natural beauty and attractions of the state, the allure is the people. The population inhabiting the locales are of Mongolian breed with roots in Myanmar. Their culture, lifestyle, practices are exceptional. Feel the warm hospitality as you cross this place or take a stop.

[ Explore Mizoram Tour Packages at IndianHoliday.com ] 

7. Places to Visit in Manipur

Manipur is an untouched paradise of India. As the name goes it means ‘A Jeweled Land’. The name is proven by its beauty, attractions and pleasures. The culture of the state is made special with its unique dance form of Manipuri and music. enjoy the glimpse of the tribal heritage as well. Some of the places worth visiting are the Shree Govindajee Temple, Kaina, Khwairamand Bazaar, Manipur Zoological Garden, Langthabal, Keibul Lamjao National Park, Sekta Archeological Living Museum, Loktak Lake and Sendra Island.

Imphal

The capital city of Manipur, Imphal is blessed with scenic beauty and wildlife. The game Polo originated here. Mentioned in the records of Second World War the city has witnessed two wars. It is clustered with numerous tourist places like Shree Govindajee Temple, the Kangla Palace, War Cemeteries, Ima Keithel; a bazaar run by the women folk only, Imphal valley, gardens, ancient relics, temples and monuments.

Loktak Lake

Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northeast India, also called the only Floating lake in the world. Numerous phumdis float on its surface. Phumdis are heterogeneous mass of vegetation, soil, and organic matters at various stages of decomposition that have thickened into a solid form. They cover an extensive part of the lake area. These floating surfaces are sturdy ad are inhabited by rural fishermen.

Keibul Lamjao National Park

Keibul Lamjao National park is a unique treasure. Located on a floating island of Loktak Lake, it is home to a variety of animals and birds. It is home to the endangered Eld’s Deer or the Brow-antlered Deer, locally known as Sangai.  Visit the park for a day tour and enjoy a rare ecosphere. The national park lies in Bishnupur district of Manipur.

[Explore Manipur Tour Packages at IndianHoliday.com] 

8. Places to Visit in Nagaland

The undulating landscape of Nagaland is shrouded in awe-inspiring mysteries. The north east state is blessed with majestic hills, lush valleys and population of 16 indigenous tribes. Tribal heritage is the biggest draw to the state. Relish the panorama of beautiful nature, warm hospitality of amiable people, intriguing culture & traditions, vibrant festivities, delicious food and memorable holidays. The Hornbill Festival held every year in the first week of December is the best time to visit.

Kohima

The capital city, Kohima is undoubtedly the most charming place to visit in Nagaland. The blend of the ancient and the modern has painted this town in an interesting. Kohima offers an insight into the life of the Angami tribe who predominate this region. The Japfu Peak, Pulebadze Peak, Tseminyu, Kohima War Cemetery, Naga Bazaar, Kohima Zoo, Kohima State Museum and Deputy Commissioner’s Bungalow are other places of interest for the tourists.

Dimapur

The entry to the mysterious Nagaland, Dimapur offers ample opportunities to nature and history lovers. It is a colorful land that reflects authentic treasures of the region. Witness the culture of various indigenous tribes of the state. Glimpse through the finest artefacts of the state. Check out ZoologicalPark, Ao Baptist Church, Diezephe Craft Village, Nagaland Science Centre, Green Park, Rangapahar Forest Reserve, Intaki Wildlife Sanctuary and Shiv Mandir.

Mokokchung

The lively district in Nagaland, home of the Ao tribe is known for rich hospitality, rich traditions and festivals. It is considered the cultural and intellectual capital of Nagaland. The village is known for the vivacious celebrations of festivals. The attractions comprise of Changkikong Range, Langpangkong, Fusen Kei and Mongzu Ki Caves, Changtongya, Longkhum Village, Longritzu Lenden Valley, Tangkum Marok Spring, Mokokchung District Museum, Mokokchung Park, etc.

Wokha

Dotted with colorful orchards, carpeted with multi-hued flowers and fringed by hills and rivers, Wokha is a nature lovers' paradise. The homeland of Lotha tribe, the rural life of Nagaland can be best enjoyed here. The land abounds in natural bounty of fruits like pineapples, plums and oranges. Mount Tiyi, Liphanyan Governor’s Camp, Totsu Cliff, Tehurang Valley, Baghty Valley, etc interests travelers. Tokhu Emong Festival in the month of November is a good time to visit.

[Browse through our North East India Tour Packages]

Related Post:
Top Places to Visit in India 
Top Places to Visit in India in Winter
Top Places to visit in Gujarat
Top Places to Visit in Kerala
Top Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
Top Places to Visit in Delhi
Top Places to Visit in India in Summer 

20 Tips To Make the Most of Where You Travel

December 23, 2015, 4:37 am

≫ Next: Top 30 Things to do in Ooty

≪ Previous: Places to Visit in North East India

$

0

0

Ernest Hemmingway once remarked “It’s good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” While there can hardly be any doubt over the relevance of the above quote, the question that is more pertinent to most of the travelers is how to make a journey that actually matters or in other words, how to make the most of where you travel. There is can be no second thoughts to the fact that we all love to travel and we all have our own ways to know and explore a place that suits best to us. 

However, when you do step out for any vacation, an excursion or a short tour, not everything can be left to chance or randomness. By following certain tips and tricks, one can definitely derive the most out of their journey no matter what kind of an expedition it might be. In this blog we present 20 tips on how you can make best of your time when you are contemplating on your tour, in order to have the best of experiences that you are going to cherish for a long time to come:  

1. Choose Your Company Wisely:  

The kind of company you are with decides a lot how your travel experience will going to be. It is very important to have a group that share common interests, have similar personalities, expectations and needs. Certainly you would not like to be in a party that likes to relax more often and always flinch from thrill and adventure, while you are a bold and daring person yourself. 

 

There are no hard feelings and it definitely does not mean to discriminate between your good friends, but as you will find out yourself, a trip with the right company will go a long way in getting the best out of your journey, making it a memorable and remarkable sojourn.

2. Gather Information about the Places before You Depart: 

Collect as much information about the place that you are going to visit from as many sources as possible and make a list of places that you need to see. Internet is always a good source in this case. There are many websites, groups and forums where people leave their experiences and a lot of knowledge and you can ask your own personal questions here as well. 

No matter what your destination may be, there is always a possibility that it would be covered by someone who has written about it, so chances are high for you to get some info on your target destination as well.

3. Pick Your Accommodation so That it is in Good Location even If You have to Pay a Little Higher:

When you have little time on your trip (which in most cases you always have), you don’t want to waste the chuck of that moving up and down from your accommodation and places of interest and vice versa. Thus always make an endeavor to find a place near the central location. 

Again you can find the central location by visiting the websites of most of the hotels, hostels and accommodations. The place where most of them would be aggregated will be the central location. Most of these website will also mention the distance from main spots. This is an ideal way to find your residence in your destination so that there is less time wasted in transit to and fro from the hotel and more time utilized in sightseeing.

4. Again Collect as Much Information as You Can After You Arrive: 

The moment you land in your destination your learning about the place begins. Generally keep your ears and eyes open. There would be a lot many people who would be your source of information, from your hotel staff to the ordinary taxi driver. Even locals from most of the destinations would be happy to help you. From the airport itself, begin to ask any questions from any tourist information desk that you find. 

However it is your accommodation where you will find most of the information. The receptionists are not only acquainted with much of the local information, it is their duty to reveal and guide their guests, so you must feel free to ask as many questions from them. Moreover they have other resources like maps, where they can explain things, locations and highlights. 

On the other hand, if you are a member of free accommodation websites like couchsurfing.com or stay4free.com then you have an added advantage. Not only the hosts in most of the cases are warm and helpful, they can also partake to show you the place around while also furnishing you a lot of information.

5. Divide Your Places of Interest According to Their Geography:  

Here, make a list of places which are located in the same geographical location or located in close proximity to each other. Now your choice of destinations will depend upon how many days you have in your kitty. You can then cover these places accordingly. If you are running short on time, there is no need to cover all the destinations in a hurry. 

You can do those sites which are closer to each other across an area. You will need your own thoughts and discretion in this case as neither it is wise to haphazardly visit each place nor is it good waste your time in sightseeing only few destinations. Balance the word that holds the key.

6. Try to Cover Your Destination as Much on Your Foot:  

As you will find, avoiding public transport as much as possible and traversing more of your place on foot will help you reveal the subtle details and local culture of the area better. This is one of the best methods to understand your location. On the other hand, if you do happen to hop on any public transport, the importance of taking a window seat cannot be underestimated to get the maximum view of the place of your interest.

7. Use Google Maps or Any of Your Favorite GPS Application Extensively: 

Google maps or any of the GPS location services comes really handy in case when travelling to unknown places. Those who have used these services may know how accurate and useful they are. However, data charges may be a concern for some. If travelling within the European Union, these may be really inexpensive. 

With an additional charge of only 3 Euros a day, you can keep using the same phone and data plan as in your country (in Europe). However, outside the European Union one can either purchase a cheap mobile internet card or use their hotel’s Wi-Fi connection to download local map and then use it offline. Thus, in any case these routes and maps prove really helpful and make life much easier for many people.

8. Click as Many Pictures as You Can but Avoid Overdoing It: 

Pictures are something which are forever and there is no doubt that you want to preserve these memories and capture as much as it can be possible. But in spite of the relevance and importance of taking a large number of pictures, you nevertheless want to experience the place yourself closely. 

Do take out time to understand the place on your own personal terms. Even if you do take many pictures, avoid uploading to any social networking site instantly. Wait before you experience a place and settle down either in some restaurant or coffee shop for doing this.

9. Do not be Scared of Your Destination: 

No matter what people say of a place or destination, most of the tourist sites are safe and locals, cooperative and helpful. Of course, personal discretion is needed all the time. But, every tourist has a different tale to tell. However, overall, most of the places in the world are relatively much safer than they are perceived to be. Do not miss out on enjoying local ways of life and mixing with the people and understanding them. 

It goes without saying that talking to locals and knowing about their personal lives and experiences makes a trip much more enriching. There would be annoying factors of course and dangers of being chased or stalked is reported all the time, but as a person you must be able to discriminate where to put up the line. Otherwise, be bold and courageous to move forward to experience some of the best moments of your trip. 

10. Plan on Your Budget by Choosing Destinations Wisely: 

There are places where it takes nothing to enter and enjoy the site as much one wants and for as many times. However, certain other places makes you pay entrance fees like museums, galleries and well-preserved monuments etc. Another distressing fact is that at most of these sites, foreigners are charged, sometimes as high as 250% than the charge that a local resident pays for the same. 

Here, you can decide which places to cover in your itinerary and which not depending upon your budget. You can give such places a miss which charge you a high admission fees. All this depends upon your interests, your time, your money and convenience. There would definitely be some destinations which would be missed, so choose and decide wisely. After all smart travelling is overall a right combination of which destination to include and which destination to miss based on numerous factors including budget.

11. Live the Moments: 

It hardly needs any more emphasis that in order to make most of your travel, one must concentrate on living the moments rather than focusing on avoidable. Aim at meeting as many people as you can, participating in as many events and learning as much as you can from unusual experiences and adventures. 

Although travelling with a clear plan is definitely advantageous, leave some aspects of your journey on random encounters makes it much more exciting and notable. Spend as much time as you can in perceiving little elements and making note of flavors, fragrances, colors, peculiarity and mannerisms of your chosen location.

12. Take the Less-Traveled Path:  

People can crowd popular destinations like anything and it can most often look like a teeming jungle. Thus, in order to make the most of your travel, find places that lies off the beaten track, that affords you something unique and exclusive than the usual. Experience new destinations, try new cuisines, meet new people and explore and unearth new secrets, new facts and adventures. 

Another way you can avoid the crowd is by visiting your destination during the off season when you will not only find the density of tourists low but also prices of hotels and other accommodations as well as transportation fares quite cheap. Another advantage to visit during the off season is that a lot of time is saved with absence of long queues, packed restaurants and hotels and sightseeing locations. Thus, plan your vacation in such a way that will help you to take out maximum benefit, pleasure, fun and memories by taking the path less travelled.

13. Go Gadget-Free: 

Although this can be one of the most difficult deals, but going gadget free can be really rewarding while on travel and saves you a lot of time as well as useless diversion. Nevertheless, carry the one which you absolutely need in times of emergencies while giving up those which consumes your time. But if you cannot go gadget free, then at least make an effort to go internet free. Go out and try to understand and feel the local culture, local ways and experience life in a different space that you will otherwise not have the opportunity to know and perceive in your own country.

 Collect as much little memories as you can and leave your internet, games, and movies for the later part when you reach home. Moreover, “flaunting” your devices in a country which has people less fortunate than you also isn’t a good practice as some culture may definitely perceive your possessions as flaunting. In either way, going gadget or internet free will certainly help you the make the most of your travel time in your destination.

14. Pack Your Baggage Lightly:  

This is one of the tip whose importance cannot be over-emphasized. Toting a lighter luggage not only saves you a lot of time and hassle at the airports but keeps you relatively stress free and better managed and in relatively less danger in losing your stuff. 

Also if you do happen to carry any suitcase, make sure you keep it comparatively empty so that you have enough room in your travels to pack any stuff or merchandise that you purchase along. Therefore, keep yourself as easy and buoyant both in weight and spirit as possible and enjoy your journey to the maximum.

15. Don’t be a Picky Eater: 

Your concerns about local food and hygiene at your destination are genuine but you need to accept these facts-Nowhere will you find perfectly clean and sanitary conditions for your food. Moreover, a great deal of a country’s or a region’s culture and soul can be found in its food. Thus, when you do choose to travel abroad or to any new destination, make sure to indulge in local delicacies as much as possible (if not whole then you must sample them as wide as you can do). 

This is certainly a great opportunity to know and experience newer lifestyles and find fresh and original avenues in cuisines. Of course, you don’t want to upset your stomach and take ill, so practice discretion, but nevertheless don’t be too much picky and selective in your fares and enjoy your excursion to the full.

16. Be Friendly with the Locals:

On your travels, you are going to meet many kinds of individuals the likes of whom you may probably never come across in your own home country. On any excursion, there is always a tremendously rich field of experience in the form of different peoples from a diverse vocations, businesses, careers and jobs. 

Therefore, always be open and friendly and try to soak in as much as you can within your limited time. Of course, don’t call for unnecessary attention as these may complicate the matters, but generally be approachable and you will be surprised to find how much warm most of the people are and how eager they are to tell you about their country and themselves.

17. Learn Some Local Lingo: 

Although its usefulness is generally overlooked, there is no harm in learning few phrases of local lingo which can help you get around, keep you safe as well bring you closer to the locals and make you understand the local culture better. Moreover, it helps in expanding your knowledge and widen your horizons. 

As Australian Philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein quoted, “the limits of your language are the limits of your world,” learning some amount of foreign lingo will definitely be a rich rewarding exercise as you get to know many more new people.

18. Get in Touch with Anyone Whom You Know Lives in Your Destination:

Even if you don’t have a direct contact, you can ask your friends, extended family, coworkers if they know anyone who lives in your destination location. As you will find, to have a local or an expatriate in contact who can explain as well as show you around the places is a great way not only to understand the minute subtleties of the local culture, but also saves you a lot of time. 

Moreover, if you are lucky enough, they may also offer you accommodation in their house which not only prevent you from unnecessary hassles but also will be a great opportunity to blend in and grasp some amazing new things about your destination’s culture and lifestyle.

19. Reflect Your Experiences and Draw Your Inspirations: 

Make sure you carry a blank journal and a sketchbook to record your own unique experiences and draw amazing and exclusive things that you find on your sojourn. Reflecting not only reinforces all the beautiful encounters and adventures that you have, it also preserves a great chunk of memories that we otherwise tend to or usually forget. 

Moreover, drawing helps you to record those experiences, feelings or rendezvouses that you otherwise can’t express in words. Try to document your experiences after each day, let your feelings and emotions flow at that time and jot down everything that you can remember. Don’t worry if your drawing is sloppy or if you can’t write expertly. This is of secondary importance, the primary goal is your expression and you will cherish all the slight details of your trip that you will finally manage to put down on the paper.

20. Collect as Much Souvenirs as You Can from the places You Visit: 

Even though it can eventually over pack and over load your suitcase, collecting souvenirs from each and every location you visit is a great way to keep and cherish your memories. Souvenirs can be of any shape and size and does not necessarily involve heavy costs. They can be as small as the business cards collected from various shops and attractions that you visit. 

However these souvenirs should remind you of the place that you have visited. Try to stay away from things that you would normally find anywhere. Rather look for the object’s exclusivity, its local context and its value addition. Souvenirs are a great way to keep the impressions of your trip alive and fresh. Thus, any excursion, howsoever short or insignificant it may be remains all the more dynamic and crisp in thoughts with collection of numerous memorable objects.

Top 30 Things to do in Ooty

January 11, 2016, 10:57 pm

≫ Next: Secret Beach Huts & Cottages at Agonda Beach, Goa

≪ Previous: 20 Tips To Make the Most of Where You Travel

$

0

0

Fondly referred to as The ‘Queen of Hill Stations’, Ooty is one of the best destinations of the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Located in the Western Ghats zone at an altitude of 2240 m above the sea level, this hill station is equally popular amidst family vacationers as well as honeymooners. The place boasts of a number of charmers such as lush surroundings, salubrious climate, aromatic tea estates, natural as well as manmade wonders, World Heritage Site of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and more. The blog enlists top 30 things to do in Ooty:

1. Doddabetta Peak

Doddabetta Peak -  the highest mountain in the Nilgiri Hills

 Standing at an altitude of 2623 m above the sea level, Doddabetta Peak is the highest point in the hill station from where one can savor panoramic views of Ooty and its surrounding places including highlands of Mysore and plains of Coimbatore. Just 10 km away from the main city, Doddabetta Peak is known to be one of South India’s highest peak that is quite popular amid tourists too.

Do not forget to click some memorable photographs here. On a clear day, the views are even more mesmerizing. There is also a Telescope house (with 2 telescopes) at the Peak, managed by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation so that the tourists can get a better view from the top. A trek up to the Peak is not a challenging one. The peak is enveloped by a reserved forest area that has several endangered species of flora and fauna.

 See also:
Best Hill Stations in India
The Best Hill Stations in South India for Honeymoon
 

2. Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens in Ooty

Spread in an area of 22 hectares of rising slopes on a hill, the well-maintained Botanical Gardens are placed at an altitude of 2400 m above the sea level. Arranged by the Marquis of Tweedale in the year 1847, it is one of the main tourist attractions in Ooty.

The garden is a treasure trove of lovely shrubs, flowering trees and rare colored lilies. Maintained by the Horticulture Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu, there are well- maintained verdant lawns, a monkey’s puzzle tree, a 20 million year old fossil tree, a huge variety of flowers, plants and bushes, an Italian - style garden bordering, a fern house with a vast variety of orchids and ferns, a pool and more.

Apart from tourists, the park is widely popular amid students studying plant science. The garden becomes the venue of Summer Festival, which is held here every year in May.

3. Stone House

Stone House in Ooty

The first bungalow built in Ooty, Stone House was commissioned by John Sullivan (the founder of Ooty) in the year 1822. The official residence of the Principal of the Government Arts College of Ooty in the present times, it was called Kal Bangla by the Tribals from whom Sullivan had acquired the land for constructing this structure. In the front of the bungalow is a tree, called the Sullivan’s oak. The architecture of this bungalow is quite similar to a British Cottage. The roof has a slanting hut-like shape that is colored green. The area around the bungalow is covered with lichens, pine and orchid trees.

4. Rose garden

Rose Garden,Ooty - The largest rose garden in India

Lying in the heart of Ooty, Rose Garden or the Centenary Rose Park covers a lush land of 10 acres. Maintained by Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department, the garden is spread in the form of a terrace with bowers, tunnels and pergolas. In the year 2006, the garden has been the winner of ‘Garden of Excellence’, awarded by the World Federation of Rose Societies.

The garden boasts of housing the country’s largest collection of roses with over 3600 Varieties like miniature rose, hybrid tea rose, ramblers, floribunda, roses in several colors including green and black. The different variety of roses here have been brought from different places. The park is open from 8:30 AM to 6 PM. Rose Garden is the largest rose garden of the country.

5. Ooty Lake

Placed near the Railway station, right behind the Central Bus Stand of Ooty, the very popular Ooty Lake is an L-shaped lake with a length of 2.75 km and a width varying from 100 m – 140 m. An artificial lake, it was established between 1823 and 1825 by John Sullivan. The mountain streams from the Ooty Valley provide water to the Lake. The Lake originally was filled up the present-day market and only ferries were used for commuting from one side to another.

As the lake shrunk- bus stand, race course and mini garden came up. The farthest end has the Boat House offering boat rides, from 8 AM to 6 PM. There is a Children’s Park too here that has a toy train. From the Lake, you can treat your eyes to the lovely views of the encircling shrubs and eucalyptus trees. Right adjacent to this attraction is a deer park. Local ponies are also available outside the boat house for you to enjoy ride.

6. Fernhill Royal Palace

The erstwhile summer residence of the Maharaja of Mysore, Fernhill Palace has now one of the finest heritage hotels in Ooty. Replicating the structure of a Swiss Chalet, this bungalow was constructed in the year 1844 by Capt. F. Cotton. The property spreads in 50 acres of lush land and comprises of 19 spacious royal luxurious suites. 

Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay in amidst world-class modern conveniences clubbed with impeccable regal hospitality. Ornamental cast iron and carved wooden bargeboards add a character to the Palace. Fir and cedar trees in the manicured gardens of the property look beautiful. Within the premises, there is an indoor badminton court and a church too.

See also:
Best Luxury Hotels in Ooty

7. Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Ooty - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Built by the British in the year 1908, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Ooty is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also called the ‘Toy Train’ of Ooty, it was operated by the Madras Railway in the beginning. This railway still runs on steam locomotives and is a major attraction, equally popular amidst children as well as adults.

The Nilgiri Passenger train during its journey covers a distance of 46 km, traversing through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges and 208 curves. This journey is covered in a duration of around 4.5 hours. This route also consists of the steepest track in Asia. The Nilgiris toy train connects Ooty to Mettupalayam where one can treat his eyes to the mesmerizing natural surroundings.

See also:
Mountain Railways of India: The Toy Trains
Top 25 Scenic Train Routes in India
30 Mind Blowing Facts About Indian Railways
How to Book Train Ticket in India 

8. The Ooty Tea Factory

Covering an area of around 1 acre of land, the Ooty Tea Factory lies amidst the blue hills of Nilgiris.  Located at a distance of 4 km from city center, this tea factory is placed at an altitude of 1839 m above the sea level. This factory also has a museum where one can get to known about the origin of several types of tea leaves, which are used all around the world. The museum also offers information about the history of tea in India as well as its start-up in the Blue Hills.

Visit the processing unit where you can learn the complete processing method, from cutting to twisting to curling and finally packaging. If you love tea, do not miss this place. The tea factory of Ooty also has a small souvenir shop from where you can get on interesting tea keepsakes such as tea cups and plates with Tea Museum emblem. You can also get your hands on special homemade chocolates like fruit and nut, rum and raisin, sugar-free chocolate, milk chocolate and more. Do not miss relishing a hot cup of tea while enjoying the lovely surroundings.

9. Avalanche Lake

Avalanche Lake in Ooty

Around 28 km from the main hill town, Avalanche Lake is a must-visit attraction in Ooty. This lake got its name due to of a huge avalanche (landslide) that happened in the area in the starting of 1800s. Mountain trekking is one of the most popular activities here. The Lake was formed naturally after this event.

Waterfalls streaming down from the bounding mountain offer a lovely view. The Lake, also known as Avalanchi, is surrounded by thick forests. During the monsoon months. One can enjoy trout fishing here. Camping at the shores is another popular activity amid tourists. Prior permission is required from Ooty’s forest office, as the lake lies in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

10. Mukurthi National Park

Placed on the south eastern curve of the Nilgiris Plateau, the Mukurthi National Park is spread in an area of 78.46 square km. A decent population of the Nilgiri Tahr calls this national park their home. Other important animals are the endangered species like Asian Elephants, Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri marten and Royal Bengal Tiger.

Even the vegetation seen here is quite similar to the ones found in the higher altitudes of Southern India. A part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the first International Biosphere Reserve of India, this park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the park was founded for the protection of Nilgiri Tahr, it was originally known as Nilgiri Tahr National Park.

11. Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake in Ooty

Placed in the upper plateau region of the Nilgiri hills, Emerald Lake is one of the most popular attractions in Ooty, which is 25 km away. Lying in the Silent Valley region, it is placed adjacent to the Red hill nature resort. The lake is popular as a picnic spot. Visitors can spot ducks and colorful birds here. Sunrise and sunset by the lake are memorable. Verdant tea plantation surround the Lake. Do not miss clicking photographs here. Enjoy fishing, bird watching and biking around the lake.

12. Kamaraj Sagar dam

Kamaraj Sagar Dam in Ooty

Also known as Sandynalla reservoir, Kamaraj Sagar dam is an ideal spot to plan a picnic in Ooty, amidst the lofty Nilgiris. Frequented by locals as well as tourists, it is an artificial reservoir that is formed quite close to the dam. The beautiful scenic surroundings have been captured in a number of movies.

Savor the peace that is spread all around. One can also indulge in fishing here. Do not miss clicking some memorable photographs here. The dam is located 10 km away from the Ooty bus stand. A popular tourist attraction in Ooty, the dam is placed in Kandala town.

13. St Stephen's Church

St Stephen's Church in Ooty

One of the oldest churches in the Nilgiris, St. Stephen’s Church was erected in the year 1829. Placed in a picturesque location of being surrounded by lush greenery, this church has used timber, stained glasses and main beam right from the palace of Tipu Sultan. The architecture and carvings of the church are wonderful. The foundation of the church was laid down on 23rd April 1829 by the Governor of Madras Stephen Rumbold Lushington who felt that there was a need of exclusive British Church in Ooty.The date was chosen to match the birth date of King George IV. The sanctification of the church was done on 5th November 1830 by John Matthias Turner, Bishop of Calcutta.

14. Ooty Golf Club

Placed an altitude of 7000 feet above the sea level, Ooty Golf Club spreads itself in an area of 195 acres of lush green land. Owned and maintained by the Gymkhana Club, it is a must-visit attraction of Ooty if you are a golf enthusiast. An 18-hole golf course, it is sprinkled with oak, fir, eucalyptus and rhododendron trees. The golf course was founded by the then Secretary of the Blue Mountains Tennis and Cricket Club, Colonel Fane Sewell, in March 1891, with 9 holes.

This golf club becomes the venue of a number of golf tournaments. Except on the days of tournaments, the golf club is open on all the days of the week. Well-equipped, spacious cottages and deluxe cottages are available as accommodation.

15. Pykara Lake and Waterfall

Pykara Lake in Ooty

River Pykara flows from Ooty to Mysore, forming Lake Pykara in Ooty. The lake is around 20 km away. Bounded by Shola forest, the lake boasts of immensely beautiful scenery. At the end, the River gushes down from 2 varied heights, one from 55 m and the other from 61 m. The name given to these falls is Pykara falls, around 1.5 km away from the Lake. The shores are a popular picnic spot, frequented by locals as well as tourists. Boating facility is also offered by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation. There is also a restaurant, a boat house and a rest house. Enjoy leisure walks and fun activities.

16. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park in Ooty

Located at a distance of just 2 km from Ooty amid the Nilgiri Hills, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary spreads over an area of 32,155 hectares. Placed on the confluence of the Western and Eastern Ghats, it is also a popular Tiger Reserve. The first sanctuary in South India, it was founded in 1940.

One of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India, Mudumalai is home to exotic wildlife species such as Mouse deer, gaur, barking deer, elephants, tigers, spotted deer, sloth bear, jackal, Bulbul, Brown Dove, Mynahs, bonnet macaque and more. Apart from wildlife, the park’s vicinity also has Mayar waterfalls and Theppakadu Elephant camp. In this camp, there 23 elephants where elephant lovers can have enjoyable sessions. Trekking is another popular activity here.

See also:
Best Places to Go for Wildlife Safaris
3 Tips for planning luxury safaris in India
Wildlife Holidays in India 

17. Toda Huts

Toda huts in Ooty

Toda huts in Ooty are a representation of the original residencies of the aboriginal people of Ooty. These remaining citadels of the Toda people are positioned in the Botanical Garden. Todas were the original residents of Ooty before it came under the rule of the East India Company. These huts, though no more are the homes of these people, but they are a proof of interesting ethnic architecture of South India. These dwellings are inverted u-shaped huts that has no windows but a small entrance.

18. Tribal Museum

Tribal Museum in Ooty

A part of the campus of Tribal Research Center, the Tribal Museum Ooty is a popular tourist attraction of the hill town that showcases the culture and the remnants of the aboriginals of Tamil Nadu and, Andaman and Nicobar Island. The museum also has a collection of some rare artifacts that belonged to the tribes in the Nilgiris. This museum is located on the Mysore Road. The timings of this museum is 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Government tribal museum is just 10 km away from the main city. Houses of Kota, Toda, Paniya, Kurumba and Kanikaran tribes are also on display here.

19. Deer Park

Deer Park in Ooty

Located around 1 km away from of the Ooty Lake, Deer Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Ooty. A beautiful animal park, it is an ideal place to see flora and fauna in its natural habitat. Though the complete area is 22 acres, 6 acres is open for general public. Founded in the year 1986, this park is maintained by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. 

This park houses a decent population of Sambar Deer species, along with other animals and birds such A Chital, Rabbit, Hare etc. One of the most popular wildlife reserves in India, it is perched at an altitude of 2240 m above the sea level. The park also has a rich collection of floral species and several kinds of trees.

20. Pine Forest

Pine Forest in Ooty

Featured in a number of Bollywood movies such as Saajan, Sadma, Deewana, Dil and Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, the pine forest of Ooty is blessed with lush and serene environment. Sandwiched between Ooty and Thalakunda, this forest offers you a chance to spend some peaceful moments with your loved ones. The towering pine trees form a wonderful sight. These forests expand over a small downhill area and the orderly fashion in which the trees are arranged, the sight looks lovely. Colorful birds and butterflies can be spotted flying freely.

21. Kalhatti Falls

Kalhatti Falls in Ooty

Located at a distance of about 13 km from the hill town of Tamil Nadu. Kalhatti Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Ooty. Placed on the Ooty to Mysore Road or Sigur Ghat Road, the waterfall gushes down from a height of 1200 feet. The falls are near Kalhatti village after which one has to cover a distance of 2 miles on-foot. During the monsoon season, the waterfall cascades down in its full vigor. The place is also popular for activities like bird watching, hiking, and trekking. Do not forget to click photographs.

22. Elk Hill Murugan Temple

Elk Hill Murugan Temple in Ooty

Dedicated to warrior god- Lord Murugan, Elk Hill Murugan temple in Ooty is a replica of Batu Caves in Malaysia. Just outside the temple there is a 40-feet statue of the Lord in a standing pose. It is made up of brick and cement. One of the most revered temples in Ooty, it also has idols of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Shakti, Nava Kanikas and Navagraha sanithanams.

Placed on the Elk hill, this temple is surrounded by immense scenic beauty. Every year in the month of January, the temple becomes the venue of Thaipusam religious festival, which is celebrated in the honor of the Lord. A special dance form, Kavadi Attam is performed on this day. Milk in brass vessels is offered to the Lord Murugan on this day.

23. Dolphin’s Nose

Just 10 km away from the Ooty hill station in Coonoor, Dolphin’s Nose is a popular viewpoint of the region that offers a lovely view of the Catherine Falls. This viewpoint is perched at an altitude of over 1000 feet above the sea level. The viewpoint has been named so, as the unique rock formation resembles the shape of the nose of a dolphin. Sunset and Sunrise views from here are memorable. While going to towards Dolphin’s Nose from Ooty, Lamb’s nose is another viewpoint that comes in the way. The road journey is an extremely beautiful one but with hairpin turns. Treat your eyes to the lovely views of the lush plantations.

24. Lamb's Rock

Lamb's Rock in Ooty

One of the best tourist attractions near Ooty, Lamb’s Rock is a popular viewpoint on the slopes of the Nilgiris in Coorg. Treat your eyes to the lovely views of the coffee estates, Hulical ravines, tea estates and the plains of Coimbatore. Named after Captain Lamb, the then collector, this viewpoint is one the way to Dolphin’s nose.

The viewpoint is perched on an elevation of 5000 feet above the sea level amidst lush surroundings. The drive from Ooty to the Lamb’s Rock is a mesmerizing one with stunning sights. Trekking is another popular activity here. Do click memorable photographs.

25. Shopping in Ooty

The hill town of Ooty is a nice place to indulge in shopping if not something really unusual. Commercial Road is one of the best places to shop where there are a number of government shops, Kashmiri shops and Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan. Ooty sells some excellent tea.

You can not only get your hands on all varieties of tea but before buying you can even taste them. The locals farmers also sell special organic and honey products. Other popular items include handmade chocolates, aromatic oils, fresh spices, and cheese products. Toda handicrafts, Toda jewelry, and Toda shawls are must-buys.

26. Trekking in Ooty

Trekking in Ooty is a memorable activity as you can also spot some predatory animal species as well. Hiring a guide would be a good idea. Apart from Ooty, trekking enthusiasts can also set their base at Kotagiri or Coonoor. Treat your eyes to the beautiful surroundings, let the fresh air brush past your face while you cover wonderful treks that are mystically hiding in the Nilgiris. The best time to enjoy trekking in Ooty is April to May and September to November.  Nilgiris Green lake trek, Ooty Scottish trail and Mukurthi Trek are some of the popular trek route in Ooty.

See also:

27. Boating Ride in Ooty

Boating in Ooty on the placid waters of Lake Pykara and Ooty Lake is one of the popular things to do amongst tourists. A number of boat types such as pedal boats and motor boats are available for you to choose from. Enjoy cruising, savor the tranquility and admire the lush beauty around you. The timings of boating in Ooty is from 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM

28. Horse Riding in Ooty

If you like riding on a horse’s back, Ooty is the best place to enjoy horse riding. The wonderful hilly terrains of this serene hill town are going to be charmers. The cost of horse riding for per person is somewhere between INR 50-150. North Lake Road is the best place to enjoy a horse ride. You can opt for a long ride or a short one.

29. Tea and Tourism Festival 

Organized by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department and Ministry of Tourism in the month of January, the annual Tea and Tourism Festival attracts visitors from all around in huge numbers. As you enter the venue, a wonderful mix of aromas fills your nostrils. There are packed samples too so that you can taste and take them home.

30. Flower Show in Ooty

Flower Show in Ooty

A major hit amidst locals as well as tourists, Flower show in Ooty is organized every year during the month of May. Organized at the Government Botanical Garden, this event showcases several types of flowers from all around the world. The first flower show here was organized way back in the year 1896.

Over 150 cut flower varieties, over 50 kinds of potted plants, temperate and tropical fruits as well as vegetable are showcased by the competitors. The prime attractions of flower show of Ooty are Vegetable carvings, Bonsai, floral decorations, Indian and Japanese flower arrangements, Flower Rangoli and Cut flower stalls.

[ Browse through these Ooty Tour Packages to plan your trip]

Related Post:

Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu
Places to Visit in Karnataka 
Places to Visit in Kerala 
Top 30 Places to Visit in India in Winter
 

Secret Beach Huts & Cottages at Agonda Beach, Goa

January 18, 2016, 3:10 am

≫ Next: Travel Tips for Smart Luxury Travelers

≪ Previous: Top 30 Things to do in Ooty

$

0

0

Not Just Yet another Beach Destination: Agonda Beach, Goa

The first time, the beach of Agonda was mentioned to me, I sort of liked this beach name as it began with an A and ended with an A. Nice short name for a beach, AgondAhhhh.

Coco Huts at Agonda Beach, Goa

For many years the beach of Agonda was not even discovered, less even noticed even though it was screaming to be seen by the huge hoards of backpackers that flooded the crescent shaped bay beach of Palolem just on the other side of Palolem River.

Not a Secret Beach of South Goa Anymore

A decade ago, it was difficult to find tourists strolling along the white sands of Agonda. Today the entire scene has totally changed. With Palolem beach totally getting overcrowded and commercial, the immediate neighboring beach of Agonda is a great respite most needed for those tourists who love a serene place all to themselves.

A decade ago, Agonda beach was like a best kept secret. Today Agonda beach is like a secret garden that is open and accessible to all beach lovers.

Agonda Beach is the second in the list of preferences after Palolem beach who are enticed to the attractiveness of the large 3 kms beach, secrecy and empty beaches. In the responses of tourists it is highlighted that Agonda is for those who need peace and quiet, nice food, and decent housing at affordable prices. “Serene quiet beach away from the crowds. An ideal place for sun admirers and for those, who want to meditate or read a book” - this is Agonda for many now. 

Olive Ridley Turtle Beach of South Goa: Agonda Beach

The highly endangered Olive Riddley Turtles have blessed Agonda beach by choosing it to be their regular hatching site of their newly born baby turtles. Olive Riddley Turtles are observed to visit only two places One in Eastern India, at Orissa and the other in and one in Southern India at Goa. Agonda has a turtle nesting unit managed by Forests (wildlife) department of Goa.

Agonda 2nd on the List of Top 25 Beaches in Asia

The top 25 best beaches in Asia according to Travel Portals are as follows:
1. White Beach, Boracay, Philippines
2. Agonda Beach, Agonda, India
3. Railay Beach, Railay Beach, Thailand
4. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, India
5. Phra Nang Beach, Ao Nang, Thailand
6. Nai Harn Beach, Karon, Thailand
7. Cavelossim Beach, Cavelossim, India
8. Otres Beach, Sihanoukville, Cambodia
9. Secret Lagoon Beach, El Nido, Philippines
10. Yapak Beach (Puka Shell Beach), Boracay, Philippines
11. Kata Beach, Kathu, Thailand
12. Varkala Beach, Varkala, India
13. Lamai Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand
14. Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam, India
15. Long Beach, Ko Lanta, Thailand
16. Mandrem Beach, Mandrem, India
17. Baga Beach, Calangute, India
18. Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An, Vietnam
19. Padang Padang Beach, Bali, Indonesia
20. Yalong Bay, Sanya, China
21. Kamala Beach, Phuket, Thailand
22. Chishingtan Beach, Hualien, Taiwan
23. Haeundae Beach
24. Candolim Beach
25. Freedom Beach, Patong, Thailand

Best Way to Experience Agonda Beach is in a Coco Hut

Agonda is the only beach where I came across many beach huts as being called as Coco Huts. Many of the beach accommodations that I visited during my stay at one of the local guest houses, I found that most of the beach huts or beach cottages owners prefer to call their accommodations as coco huts. This was something new and peculiar only with this South Goa beach of Agonda.

Hand Made & Hand Built Herbal Coco Huts, Back to Nature at End of the Season.
In South Goa, due to the regulations of the local government agencies called the Panchayat, not even a single person or private company is allowed to build permanent beach huts on beach region that comes under the designated area of CRZ or Coastal Regulation Zone. Hence all the Coco huts or beach huts at Agonda beach are natural, eco-friendly and dismountable in the Monsoon seasons.

All the coco huts at Agonda beach are totally made from natural materials such as coir, wood, sticks, cane, palm leaves, bamboos, ropes and any other eco-friendly materials. Also every year in the month of May these temporary beach huts also called as coco huts of Secret Garden have to be compulsorily dismantled and the Agonda beach shoreline left back to its original state.

Agonda beach leaves a definite imprint on the mind mainly because of its distinctive 3 bays that make up the entire stretch of Agonda beach. The most imprinted image of Agonda beach on my mind is the strewn rocks on the entire stretch of Agonda like sprinkled salt on my seafood platter.

Also Read:
5 Best Luxury Hotels in Goa
Best Beach Huts in Goa
 

Contributed by Deepak

Travel Tips for Smart Luxury Travelers

January 20, 2016, 4:36 am

≫ Next: How to Choose a Travel Destination

≪ Previous: Secret Beach Huts & Cottages at Agonda Beach, Goa

$

0

0

A traveler’s job is to grab more and more experiences of new destinations and places. This motivation of the wanderlust can be well satisfied if he were to follow certain guidelines or we would say some tips in his course of traveling. Luxury traveling, which we in this blog of ours is focusing, need not to be always associated with an expensive tour; provided if you are not a smart traveler.

If you are not one of those and love to play smart, then you can actually save a lot in your next luxury travel. Mentioned below is a list of travel tips which can definitely lead you to be a smart luxury traveler. 

• Jet lags are quite common and after a long journey onboard, it gets very much habitual for many travelers to develop such a condition. Thus, in a situation like this, avoid going out at the night and instead take a good night sleep as per the time zone you are in.

• While packing your luggage, do not put your name and address on the tag it carries with itself. Instead rely on your phone number and the postal code.

• As you get onboard be very much alert about the costs that are occurring because it is quite common for anyone to lose an update on that.

• It is always good to have your passport renewed as many countries are under the regulation of keeping their tourists for more days.

• Before visiting any new destination or a holiday spot, make sure you keep a list of the must visit attractions and the things to do. It will help you cover every of the attraction.

• In order to keep your clothes free from crease, keep a spray bottle of water in your luggage. Use it to rinse the clothes and let it dry in the open.

• Make use of popular websites to get yourself the best hotel or accommodation deal. ‘Hotels Combined’ can be of very much help

• If you have a newly bought memory card for your digital camera, make sure to keep a selfie of you saved in it.

• One of the important things that a smart traveler would never head on without it is an extra photocopy of the passport and a scanned digital copy of it in your email.

• If your holiday plan includes touring United Kingdom, then keep in mind that the national museums and galleries over there are free of cost to visit.

• Make use of mobile apps like Momondo, Expedia and Skyscanner to get excellent flight deals. Expedia is also helpful in the case of hotels and accommodations.

• Although it is advised you must not forget adapters and chargers at home, but if you do so, you can ask for it at the hotel reception for they usually have a spare.

• Tourists travelling with pet dogs can look for small luxury hotels that offers numerous dog-friendly options.

• Don’t try to be funny or jovial with the immigration or border control staff for they are not the kind to be humorous with. Just get on with the proceedings straight away.

• It is a point to understand that different airlines have different names appointed for different class of cabins. They might have names like World Traveler Plus, Premium Voyage and economy comfort, so go research well through these options before you make your purchase.

• Keep your eyes open for bumper sales at boutique and premium hotels.

• Other than looking at the website of the hotel, go through different travel agent websites. Such websites will give you a sure better offer in choosing an accommodation.

• Try to keep your expenses at the minimum during the flight and the journey. So that you can spend with open hands at the destination. Enjoy the city attractions, go on the outskirts. For instance, British countryside includes some of the most wonderful places to visit; you can make your big expenses over there.
• 
  
• If you are a fan of a particular airline, sign up for their newsletters. In this way, you will never be away from the news of any sale or special offer.

• Lavish lounges that you see at the airport are not only for first class passengers, but for other travelers as well. One can buy meals and drinks over there at cost-effective rates.

• While renting accommodation, keep a check on the hidden charges that are not covered under the price tag. These charges are mainly service costs which would normally be absent on the website.

• In order to save on different tours, city attractions and restaurant, always check the Groupon deals on the country you are planning to visit.

• If travelling to a foreign country, learn some translations of words like Thankyou, sorry and please. This can help you in many situations.

• One must consider the option of shorter trips as sometimes they prove more reliable than the longer ones. Many travel companies have started with arranging their trips in in this way.

• Sometimes we ask for a little arrangement or a special treatment with an excuse of a wedding anniversary or a birthday. No need to do that, simply ask, as they would be more than happy to do that.

• Before leaving your hotel, make sure you have the name and address of the hotel clearly in your mind. If you can’t do so, take their business card so that you can catch a taxi or cab easily to return back.

• If you are in for some major expenses at your trip, make sure you inform your credit company before in hand about the same.

• Keeping the contact information of your embassy while traveling abroad is a sure sign of a smart traveler.

• If you can adjust little bit of comfort for the luxuries of a lavish hotel stay, do opt for a low budget airline, as it will help you save your precious money for the hotel.
• 
  
• There are some credit card companies which offer people certain benefits while they travel. There lies the situation of collecting miles/points for a hotel loyalty program or an airline you wish to choose.

• During the time of overcrowding of the airline, don’t hurry to switch to another one. Wait for the compensation that would be offered to you.

• One can always leave toiletries at home, for the hotels provide them absolutely free of cost.

• Many restaurants in Italy are known to offer certain discounts during lunch time. So, if you are vacationing over there, have your meal around that time.

• Amongst the best ways to save money on a holiday, we suggest the loyalty programs of various companies. It includes flight journeys, hotel stays and even cruise trips.

• Before booking a hotel room for yourself, make sure you cross check the reviews, blogs and posts on a number of websites. Star ratings are not enough.

• If you want a high end luxury vacation, countries like Dubai, Mauritius, Bali, Bora Bora and the Maldives can bring the best of that, for they are renowned for the same.

• Besides, luxury is not only confined to the lands. One can simply book a cruise tour that would be pampering you with its high end luxury service as you move alongside, exploring new destinations.

• New at a destination and completely unaware about the food joints/restaurants, rely upon the suggestions given by your hotel concierge. They will direct you to the best locations in the town.

• Rather than enjoying the luxuries of an accommodation, one can just stay in a private room at a hostel or dormitory and spend on the best spas and gourmet cuisines.

• Definitions of a luxury travel can be different for many of us. It can be a super comfortable accommodation, a premium airline journey or the rich experiences that you get on your vacation. Clear your definition in your head before the journey and make the arrangements as per your priorities.

• An insurance cover is always helpful on a long vacation. There are many stories of tourists caught in the web of paying excess amount of bills on a holiday.

• Different hotel websites generate promo codes in their dealings. A smart traveler would always make use of these codes to get himself the best buy.

• One must travel safe at all costs. Even though a luxury travel is high on comfort, it cannot promise a safe travel. For this, you need to be on guard for yourself and your belongings.
• 
  
• Tourists who wish for luxury travel need not to restrict themselves to premium hotels and accommodations. Try Glamping for a change; you will not be disappointed at all.

• To get the cheapest flight, make a comparison of rates at various sites on the web.

• Checking-in between 4 pm and 6 pm can certainly increase your chances of a hotel upgrade.

• To get an upgrade in the flight journey, don’t depend on luck. Instead, get it done in advance. There are many airlines who provide such options. Virgin Atlantic being one of them.

• One of the most essential qualities of a smart traveler is that it has the element of flexibility in its schedule. The more you will be flexible or adjusting towards choosing travel destinations, the more you are likely to get yourself the best deal.

• As you would be booking an accommodation for yourself or your people, keep a mindful of any big event or conference going on or scheduled to happen in that area. If this would be the situation, you are most likely to get a hike in the rates of the accommodation.

• Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. So, when on a vacation at a new place, do not refrain   yourself from trying out new cuisines. To connect with the local culture, eat where the locals do and have what they are having.

Also Read:
How to Plan Luxury Travel
Is time travel possible?

---

How to Choose a Travel Destination

February 9, 2016, 4:24 am

≫ Next: Top 22 Destinations for Women Solo Travelers in India

≪ Previous: Travel Tips for Smart Luxury Travelers

$

0

0

This year, you have plans to travel more and more as you have realized what a wonderful idea it is to explore the world, creating lifetime memories. However, you are confused so as to where your next vacation should be? There are certain basis on which we decide our destination of vacation and, time and budget are two very important criteria. A successful vacation requires a proper planning, ensuring that the conditions of budget, interest and time are fulfilled. 

The blog enlists certain tips on how to choose a travel destination:

Interest / Purpose

Do you wish to visit a volcano or wish to spot a komodo dragon, it is not possible at all the places. What you really wish to experience and explore, is probably the most important feature in deciding the place that you are going to visit. This becomes all the more important, if you have interests that are really unique.

Ponder upon what is going to be the general theme of your vacation, as in are you going with your family, is this a vacation with your friends and you wish to indulge in adventure activities, are you searching for a romantic destination to visit with your partner, or is this vacation simply for relaxing after long time of tiring office work? Or you may be you are one of those who just wishes to visit the globe, meet the new people and savor sumptuous delicacies of popular world cuisines.

The purpose of the trip and your interest is very important. Look for the company you will be travelling for, your children, spouse or your friends.

Budget / Cost of your vacation

Most of the time, we chart out a budget for our vacation, after taking all the tentative expenses into consideration. For instance, if you ready to spend one thousand dollars on your accommodation, you are going to get far better options in Southeast Asia instead of Hawaii, and that too for a longer duration. Everything now depends on your preference and pocket. However, travelling to some place during their off-season is going to save a lot of your money due to discounts being offered.

There are websites, such as BudgetYourTrip.com, which contains the analysis of the average costs of several destinations, done at one place, taking into account some real expenses. This gives a general idea of the expenses that you are going to incur during your vacation.

Time of your holiday / Time on your hands

After you jot down names of some destinations in your list, just do little research and look for any public holidays, festivals or other events fall during the time when you are planning your vacation. During such times, it might happen that main attractions are closed, markets would be shut and even public transport would either be too busy or would be shut.

However, there is another side to this. If you are a cultural aficionado and you like to experience new rituals and traditional of other people, the time of festivities would be the best for you. A little research never hurts. Thus, you can alter the time of your vacation accordingly. You can postpone or advance your vacation.

Another thing is the time that you have on your hands. If you somewhere around 1 weeks’ time, you might not want to waste too much time travelling to arrive at your destinations. But, if you have around 15 days and more, the world is yours.

Weather

Not looking for the weather condition during the course of your holidays can actually become a real trouble. Weather is an important factor in choosing the destination where you are going to visit. Before you make a plan to visit a particular destination, check its weather during that time so that your plan is not spoiled. 

For instance, you rounded off on having a beach vacation with your family at Davao City in Philippines, in the month of June. You reach there and what you see is only water all around. Little did you know that this is the rainy season here it rains consistently without a break. You are now going to spend time only in your hotel room.

Language

If you are not really into the idea of learning a need language just for a vacation, do try to know whether the people of the destination that are travelling, know your language or not. For instance, try to visit English-speaking nations such as New Zealand and Canada. You might not like to talk with just a smile or in sign language.

Family / Acquaintance Connections

If you are planning to visit a destination where you family, friends or acquaintance stay, you can think about staying with them. This is going to save a lot of money of yours that you were about to pay for accommodation. The money that you saved can be used on some memorable excursion or on at a popular fine-dining restaurant that was earlier on your list. Additionally, they may also enlighten you about some hidden gems of that place that not many people know about.

Related Post:

Travel Tips for Smart Luxury Travelers 

20 Tips To Make the Most of Where You Travel

Top 22 Destinations for Women Solo Travelers in India

February 25, 2016, 4:49 am

≫ Next: 20 Amazing Indian Monuments and Landmarks

≪ Previous: How to Choose a Travel Destination

$

0

0

Traveling solo is one the best experiences for any excursionist. The joy of discovering places in your own pace and time, without having to adjust to interests and temperament of others is unique. It invariably feels like you are nomad and the world at large is your Pandora Box waiting to be discovered and experienced. Besides needing to have at least basic accommodation facilities, their safety and security is a major requirement and any destination must fulfill this criteria.

Luckily of late, women have started to travel a lot alone or in women-only groups. In this blog, we present a list of Top 22 Destinations in India for Women Solo Travelers. Most of these places are secure and are frequently visited and endorsed by other women travelers. The locals are warm and hospitable and attractions abound in terms of natural sceneries, shopping spots and rich and lip-smacking delicacies. Find out below which places find the spot in your checklist for most suitable to travel alone. 

Goa

The ultimate beach destination in India, Goa stands on a different pedestal from all other beach destinations in the country and hence it is no surprise that it attracts almost 2 million tourists to its vast sandy beaches every year. Although the culture and atmosphere in Goa is a lot gender neutral and every year, a huge number of women travel alone or in women only groups, it hardly needs any emphasizing that they still need to keep safe and avoid unwanted attention. Goa can be one of the most incredible places to have fun, adventure and diversion. One can find almost all types distraction here.

From afternoon long walks along its picturesque beaches to cool and frolic ambience during the evening and then nightly party atmosphere, anything and everything is cool and delightful in Goa. On the other hand, the place has numerous sightseeing options with buildings like old cathedrals which have considerable Portuguese influence. The beach markets, excellent sea cuisines, adventure water sports, open and carefree culture and amazing environment makes Goa quite an attractive place to enjoy and spend a memorable vacation time.

Jodhpur

Women Travellers in Jodhpur by Live Mint

Jodhpur, located on the western side of Rajasthan’s capital Jaipur, is the 2nd biggest city in the state. The “Sun City” as it is famously called is positioned very near to the India’s great desert Thar. Almost all the houses near the principal fort of Mehrangarh are painted in blue, due to which the city is also called the “blue city”. It is a common knowledge that Rajasthan state is known for its hospitality, thus a woman traveling solo can expect a safe and secure holiday time. The site is one filled with a romantic charm of a quintessential desert city.

The mighty Mehrangarh fort with its imposing walls and massive battlements is a sight to behold. Moving through winding, narrow lanes with shops and bazars that seems to sell everything and vying hard for the tourist dollar is an experience that one must have. The colors, the views, the camels, cuisines, crafts and palaces etc. make the city vibrant and lively, thus amazingly alluring to a woman traveler. Therefore a solo woman must make an endeavor to experience the city at least once in a lifetime.

Sikkim

The North Eastern part of India is a tourist’s heaven with spectacular sights, amazing weather and hosts which are some of the warmest and friendliest people in India. In this regard, it is one of the safest places in India for solo women travelers. The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, has some of the rich, picturesque views whereas on moving further out, one can find the scenes and thrill of Nathu-la pass and Indo-China border truly exciting.

Sikkim is also one of the hubs of Tibetan Buddhism and has often been called as the world’s last utopias by the legendry Buddhist Guru Padmasambhava. Other highlights at Sikkim includes exotic views of Kanchenjunga peak which can be viewed from any location throughout the state.

The People of Sikkim are extremely welcoming, humble and helpful. Tourism is one of the major contributors to economy and is extensively promoted by the state government. It is also one of the cleanest cities in India with exotic flora and fauna. Thus there are numerous charms that draws one to Sikkim and an exquisite place like this should not be missed.

Puducherry 

A charming South Indian escape, Puducherry will take your heart away with its elegant captivity, its endearing colonial architecture, cobbled roads and warm and friendly people. French influence is clearly conspicuous everywhere-in its houses, food, culture and language. The town has an astonishing relaxing environment. One can move around and check out memorials, museums, gardens and of course alluring buildings like the Sacred Heart Cathedral and other temples. The serenity beach is an incredible getaway and has one of the cleanest waters and sands in any beach in India.

Another highlight is the world famous Aurobindo Ashram, the building of which was once the home of Sri Aurobindo and this ashram draws visitors from all over the world seeking to learn his philosophy. Another attraction is the delightful little city of Auroville, set up by the Mother for which she called people to live in here from all over the world. The people of Puducherry have a friendly and accessible attitude due to which it is pretty safe destination for women only travelers. South India generally has an open outlook towards females and hence solo travelers will find the environment conducive and pleasant.  

Shimla

Hill stations are best places for women only travelers primarily due to their small size and closely located public spaces, hotels, markets and restaurants. In this regard, Shimla assumes a significant importance due to its amazing picturesque charm and exotic weather suitable for lots of fun, all throughout the year. Shimla has remained a prime tourist hotspot since a long time now. The lush green slopes that turn into white in winters, the charming colonial architecture, friendly and welcoming people are too much a temptation as the place is riddled with excellent street side restaurants and eateries as well as good accommodation option across a wide range of pockets.

Primary attractions in the city which have enamored tourists since time immemorial are The Mall, Christ Church and Jakhu Temple which also remain crowded for most of the time, so it’s quite safe for a single woman to venture out. Another attraction in Shimla is the famous toy train which is favorite amongst many and is quite a charm.  

Nainital

A nice little town of picturesque sights, home to beautiful Kumauni people with warm smiles and friendly and helpful demeanor, Nanital has retained its place amongst the top hill destinations in India. Nainital or the Lake City as it is sometimes called is considered a safe place women. The locals are simple, approachable and receptive people and thus the destination turns out be quite conducive and convenient if a solo woman decides to travel to the place. The sheer tranquility and isolation in the ambience of lush greenery with a quaint backdrop of hills and vales is a wonderful experience.

Though the destination is mostly known for its lakes, the place has other attractions like the vibrancy of sites like the Tibetan market from where one can procure latest clothing at an affordable prices and the Mall, which is the central street which is dispersed with restaurants, hotels and offices.

Another attraction is the Nainital Zoo, which is home to rare species of snow leopards, Himalayan black bear, and steppe eagle. Besides one can enjoy good, hot delicacies, mostly Chinese like the momos in the cool and salubrious weather. Located at an altitude of 1,938 meters above sea level, Nainital is a pleasing place to enjoy some peaceful moments.

Udaipur

Udaipur is an amazing city with wonderful architectural marvels and a stunning romantic ambience which is so endearing to a keen traveler. The locals of Udaipur are warm, friendly and welcoming individuals. The city is one of safest in India for women travelers and they can move around freely without much of a hassle barring the usual struggle with touts, agents and guides.

Udaipur brings alive one of best instances of true Rajasthani culture and life. Palaces, pavilions, havelis, lakes and other works of exquisite architecture offers a glimpse into the life and times of the golden era of Indian royalty. A women traveler will find a lot do and experience, from markets to clothing and local dishes to their personal delight. A mirror of exceptional culture and lifestyle, Udaipur is a wonderful place to be.

Khajuraho

Khajuraho is seemingly an unexpected destination for female only travelers but from the experience of most them, it appears quite safe and secure place. Of course the trouble of the usual touts is always there. But once you get over them, Khajuraho becomes an amazing spot to enjoy some great art and architecture. The Khajuraho complex has been enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list and there is much to love and admire at the complex than simply the erotic sculptures for which the site is mostly known for.

However, outside the main complex, there is very little to explore, except the two lakes that be visited, while boating can also be enjoyed at the site. Besides, some delectable street food in definitely in order for tourists to have a comprehensive experience. The best time to visit Khajuraho is during winter months since weather during this is most conducive for close exploration and sightseeing.

Munnar

Adding another glorious feather to the crown of the picturesque and exotic state of Kerala, Munnar is like a wonderland for tourists who seek tranquility and peace on their vacations. Surrounded by large tea plantations in all directions where eyes could go, the charm of Munnar is such that it make you forget the noise and chaos of urban life. Adding further to its grace is the fact that it is one of the safest place for women-only travelers in India with warm and welcoming hosts. The exquisite hill town has plenty of options for accommodation across any range of budget.

However, the best experience of Munnar lies in exploring the town rather than staying inside your lodge. It is a great place to go for cycling, trekking and hiking as well as expending comfortable and peaceful holidays away from the crowd of a usual tourist spot. With its incredible mountains and valleys, fascinating species of both flora and fauna and an amazing spicy aroma in the air, this is the place that one will love and cherish to visit.

Kasol

Located in the exotic Parvati Valley with elegant Parvati River flowing nearby, Kasol is an incredible little hamlet of lush greenery and amazing sights. Although being small, the place surprisingly full of bars, cheap guesthouses and bakeries while it is increasingly replacing Goa as the venue of rocking summer parties.

Kasol is situated 42 kilometers east of Kullu and is perched at a height of 1640 meters above sea level. It is one of the most accessed destinations for tourists due to its picturesque sceneries and excellent climate throughout the year. Kasol has recently become a hotspot of Israeli tourists in India and now hosts a significant population from the country. It is also a safe place for solo women travelers and locals are very much used to receiving them and also respect them.

Kaziranga

The name Kaziranga National Park reminiscences the image of the Great One-horned rhinoceros in the mind of every Indian. And why not? The national park is the home of two thirds of the world’s population of this specie. However, as with some of the other destinations, Kaziranga is not popularly perceived to be a tourist spot for solo women traveler but nevertheless, it can be a great fun and adventure if it is covered as one. Besides the rhinos, the national park hosts the highest density of tigers from amongst the protected areas of the world. Kaziranga National Park was declared a Tiger Reserve in the year 2006.

In addition to these, the Park boasts of a diverse variety of flora and fauna and includes other animals like elephants, wild buffaloes, swamp deer, hog deer and samba and a huge population of distinct species of birds. Safaris are another way of enjoying the vast diversity of Kaziranga. There are three kinds of safaris viz. elephant safaris, jeep safaris and trekking. The best time to visit Kaziranga is between the months of November and April. Thus one can plan a trip accordingly in the months of winter to enjoy the best experience.

Hampi 

Hampi, the relics of the rich and opulent Vijayanagara kingdom are one of the most spectacular and exotic group of monuments in India. These charismatic structures, numbering almost 500 in total, consists of temples, ruined palaces, ancient markets, royal pavilions, aquatic structures, bastions, treasury buildings and much more. It is a kind of a paradise for travelers with a passion for beauty and architecture in the same manner as it a delight for any curious pilgrim.

The people of Hampi and thus Karnataka are open minded and welcoming and sympathetic to solo women travelers. Thus, with the usual trouble of any tourist location (with touts, agents and guides) the place will definitely mesmerize you and take you back through the chapters of history and make you imagine the golden era that was once in effervescent here.

Outside the ruins, the main point of attraction is the Hampi Bazaar dispersed with cheap accommodations, restaurants and shops all of which brilliantly overlooks by the majestic Virupaksha Temple. Hampi is a great place to enjoy some exquisite dose of a flourishing era and is one of the most popular tourist location in India.

Varanasi 

Varanasi or Banaras as it was previously called, is widely acclaimed to be Jerusalem of India. Here one can find layers of civilization stretching as far back in time as Iron Age coexisting with modern, 21st century cultures and ways of life. Traditions, history, religion and divinity play hide and seek as you uncover subtle elements of this astonishing wonderland and try to understand certainty behind the chaos.

At the first impression, the densely populated and crowded by lanes, streets and alleys may look intimidating for a woman traveler and in certain ways it can be unsafe too, but again, as with other places, one needs to adjust a little according to the Indian way of thinking and sensibilities. At most places, it would be better to keep quiet and discreet in your behavior while a general discretion on when to speak and enjoy and when to say no is desirable.

However it is not a dangerous place so after keeping some important things in mind you can have a lot of fun time here while exploring the place’s ancient and exotic temples, religious site and Ghats.

Ladakh

Ladakh is an ultimate fantasy of every traveler and why not? The vast stretch of this astonishing mountain desert is one of most beautiful places in India and the world. But can it be included in the list as a safe destination for a solo women traveler? Well, the expansive and deserted character of most of the areas may not sound very positive but warm hospitality of its people definitely makes it a secure site for single female travelers. The Ladakhi people are generous and large-hearted people, so much so that one can even live in their homes and they will treat you as a family member.

Furthermore, there is nothing like enjoying some of the most pristine, postcard perfect views with huge imposing, snow clad hills and virgin landscapes and perfect peaceful and serene ambience. This tranquility is further accentuated by presence of Buddhist monasteries and gompas with their fluttering flags and prayer wheels releasing the positive influence of mantras or incantations in the air.

The Ladakhi people are happy, mostly self-sufficient individuals and hence it’s sweet and memorable experience to meet them. Ladakh is best acceseed in summers, otherwise almost all of the region gets closed due to bitter cold and heavy snowfall in winters, so plan your trip accordingly.

Mysore

Popularly known as the city of palaces, this amazing South Indian metropolis is the erstwhile capital of the Woodeyar rulers. Due to their great patronage to art and culture, the rich heritage of the city is clearly conspicuous. Mysore is believed to be quite a safe place for women. The warm and friendly locals make it a pretty charming place to be. It has quite an attractive historical character and buildings are architecturally amazing.

On the other hand, the city is also one of the center-points for the production of sandalwood, incense and premium silk, while solo women traveler can also relax with rejuvenating treatments in Yoga and Ayurveda centers. Moreover, Dashara (Navratri) festival is also quite an attraction in the city for which people from across far and wide come to enjoy and participate. Mysore enjoys quite a moderate climate. Hence it is never too hot or too cold to carry out an excursion to this beautiful city.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Although located far off from the mainland India and an unlikely place for women solo travelers, one will surprisingly find many women who have come alone to enjoy this exotic destination. The islands are unmistakably one of the best places to revel in the adventure sports. Scuba diving, snorkeling, water skiing, fishing, Aqua cycles, kayaking can be experienced relished to the full. There is no inadequacy of accommodation, which is available in range of different options. Besides an array of amazing and exquisite delicacies including the rich diversity of sea food can be thoroughly relished. 

Those who want to truly savor the incredible isolation and exotic views will find the wonderful beaches with fine sand and blue and azure waters a great treat. Trekking is another popular adventure activity in which tourists can participate and enjoy. An amazing getaway, Andaman is one of best beach destinations in India. 

Rishikesh

A small hill town on the foothills of Himalayas, Rishikesh is an excellent destination for all kinds of adventures and very much favorable for women only travelers. Almost the second name for rafting in India, there is no dearth of other thrilling sports with fox-flying, cliff jumping and bungee jumping etc. also popular with the tourists. Rishikesh also hosts a number of centers for rejuvenation and recreation with Yoga, meditation and other spiritual exercises to let the travelers enjoy a wonderful time. It is now almost identified as the “Yoga Capital of the World”.

Camping at riverside with most exquisite views of rushing Ganges and high mountains with a cool and enjoyable weather is an unforgettable experience. Similar to Varanasi, there is also an incredible Ganga aarti in the evening which is worth attending and which fills the entire atmosphere with divine aura. The town remains busy with tourists, pilgrims, sadhus and other holy men and together it forms an amazing mood that worth not missing.

Ziro Valley

Although a lesser known tourist destination, Ziro valley is an incredible place enveloped in the hills of Andhra Pradesh. The valley is fast emerging to be one of the most beautiful places in India. The lush green vales, crisscrossing rivulets, raw and rustic habitats and expansive rice fields make it nothing short of a wonderland. One the best highlights of visiting the Ziro Valley is the opportunity to understand the cultures and lifestyles of local people, who love to decorate themselves with a distinct get up of tattoos and ornaments like nose plugs. Due to its astonishing landscapes, the valley has been enlisted in the tentative lists of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The Aptanis, who inhabit the Ziro Valley are the largest ethnic groups of Eastern Himalayas who have their unique colorful culture wherein they celebrate numerous festivals, exhibit their complex handloom skills and their creativity in bamboo and cane crafts as well as their judicious use of natural resources. Since the place has an amazing, friendly population, it is one the best destinations for women solo travelers. There are few good hotels and lodges with basic facilities and warm staff makes the place a favored spot. 

Mahabalipuram

The exotic site and astonishing structures of Mahabalipuram are one of the most popular getaways for people traveling to South India. At all times there is something special and unique to find and explore amongst the treasure trove of these architecturally beautiful masterpieces. Most of the structures at Mahabalipuram are temples. These were founded in 7th century by Pallava King Narsimhavarman, who was also called Mamalla, due to which the site is also known as Mamallapuram.

Mahabalipuram is located around 60 kilometers south from the city of Chennai and has been listed in the index of UNESCO World heritage Sites. It is also counted as one of the safest destination for women only travelers since people are receptive and open to accommodate women who travel alone. With the exception of the usual trouble from touts, women will find the place hospitable and cordial as well as quite safe to plan a solo trip.

Darjeeling

Surrounded by mighty Himalayas and hosting verdant tea garden with incredible picturesque views Darjeeling seems to be a chunk of heavenly landscape, just out of the misty dream. The breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Himalayan Zoological Park (the home of the exotic species of Red Panda), and the romantic ride of Himalayan Railways, amazing winding roads, street markets and tranquility of the Peace Pagoda are a tremendous allure of the site.

Darjeeling is one of the most popular destinations in West Bengal and is popular for its warm hosts and helpful people. This is the reason why it is considered a friendly place for solo women travelers. Colonial architecture, Buddhist monasteries, bustling streets with crowded eating joints and sights of steaming coffee everywhere is a great scene with charm of a quintessential hill station. The best time to visit Darjeeling is in autumn and spring but winters are especially cold here. Visit this beautiful place to soak in misty ambience of this amazing location.     

Sangla

Nestled in the rich, panoramic district of Himachal Pradesh, Sangla is full of mesmerizing views and picturesque locations. The word Sangla in Tibetan means “Pass of Light” and the location has excellent climate throughout the year. Sangla is famous throughout India for its wonderful apple and cherry trees and pine nut orchards. Apart from this some exotic locations like the Kamru fort, Buddhist Monastery, Sangla Meadow and Tibetan Wood and Carving Center etc. are popular tourist spots. On the other hand, adventure travelers may enjoy trekking through its exquisite forested paths, rappelling, cross the valley on rope, relish in trout fishing or plan a trip to Sangla Village.

Sangla is counted as women friendly and secure place from a solo woman traveler’s point of view. The accommodation options include several hotels and retreats that offer not only state of art luxury living alternatives but a great choice to spend comfortable and enjoyable vacation. Camping on the banks of Baspa RIver is one of the favorite activity for tourists descending here. Overall, a wonderful place to expend some peaceful holidays.

Read More: 
Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Alleppey

Alappuzha or better known as Alleppy is a beautiful and exquisite destination, the hub of Kerala’s excellent backwaters with an amazing transport and accommodation network of houseboats. Alleppey is widely acclaimed to be called the “Venice of the East”. Its lush green surroundings, palm fringed canals, aesthetically pleasing lagoons, picture perfect lakesides and long sandy beaches are a great draw and too much a temptation to give it a miss. The canals are like the lifelines of Alleppey. The long array of boats, bridges, pathways and channels give this city an incredible setting, like just out of any dream.

The town has the credit of being a safe place for women. The place greets thousands of tourists every year and a significant number of them are solo women travelers. The best time to visit this astonishing labyrinth of canals is between September and March, when the weather is most conducive to relish its hypnotic charms. The endless panorama of verdant paddies, gigantic coconut trees, shining waters and warm and friendly culture makes it a must place to visit in Kerala.

Safety Tips

• Avoid travelling alone at night. It is better to pay extra amount and choose safety than otherwise. Hire a porter at train stations and prefer to travel by first class for extra security. 

• Transition during travel is one of the most hectic times and the best way to avoid it is to plan as much as you can in advance. You can do this by doing extensive research on the bus, train or plane that you will take whilst the best option is always to buy your tickets well ahead of your schedule. 

• Make sure you have a place to go when you land at your destination. The best way to do this is to book the first night’s accommodation ahead of time so that you don’t have look out for a place if you reach at odd hours. 

• You can ensure more security at your hotel by checking whether any families or any other solo women travelers are also staying there. Check your room as soon as you arrive. 

• Try to reach your destination during day time so that you have enough time to change your hotel in case you don’t like it.

• Try to stay in public space as much as possible and avoid taking short cuts down the dark corners and alleys. Stay clear from shadows while walking. 

• Use your discretion as much as possible and don’t rush into any decision or get pressurized from any stranger, vendor or a taxi driver. Dress suitably to avoid attention. 

•  Make sure to keep you cell phone charged at all times and always keep your closer friends and family in loop when departing or arriving at a destination. 

• Whenever you are in a cab or an autorickshaw, always pretend to be on phone or texting someone so that the driver assumes that you are expected at some place. 

•  Always walk with a confident demeanor. 

•  Don’t accept any eatables or drink from any stranger. 

•  Don’t hesitate to shout or call for help if threatened or attacked. 

•  Try to learn some self-defense techniques.  

Related Post:
Is India safe for women to travel alone? 
Tips for Your First Solo Trip in India 
Travel Tips for Smart Luxury Travelers 

20 Amazing Indian Monuments and Landmarks

March 11, 2016, 4:40 am

≫ Next: Best Luxury Trains Honeymoon an Unforgettable Memory by Rail

≪ Previous: Top 22 Destinations for Women Solo Travelers in India

$

0

0

India boasts of a rich historical past wherein it has been under the reign of several rulers who erected innumerable architectural gems during the course of their rule. Boasting of detailed embellishments and magnificent architecture, the monuments of India are representatives of one of the most stunning features of multi-featured culture of India.

A structural accomplishment in their own self, all the Indian monuments are wonderful samples of romance, bravery, mystery, artistry, skillfulness and more. They are witness of the past of the country, standing like sentinel pillars of the cultural heritage of India. These wonderful monuments are muses for the future generation and proud landmarks of their home cities too!

Here is the list of 20 Amazing Indian Monuments and Landmarks.

1.Taj Mahal, Agra

Taj Mahal at Agra - India is one of the wonders of the world

One of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Taj Mahal stands like a dream on the southern banks of River Yamuna in Agra. This white marble mausoleum was commissioned in 1632 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

The construction of this monument took 22 years. An amalgam of Persian and Mughal architecture, the mausoleum has been adorned with calligraphy, lattice work, precious and semi-precious stones.

See More:
Best Luxury Hotels in Agra

2.Amber Fort, Jaipur

Amber Fort in Jaipur

Placed on the outskirts of Jaipur, Amber Fort or Amer Fort was the original home of the Rajput royalty before the establishment of Jaipur. One of the most popular attractions of Jaipur, this fort has expansive courtyard, temples, gardens, halls and palaces. This fort is a World Heritage Site along with five other hill forts of Rajasthan.

Erected by Raja Man Singh in 1592 with Rajput and Hindu elements, this fort holds several splendid structures within its walls such as Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Suraj Pol, Sukh Mahal etc.

3.Golden Temple, Amritsar

Also known as Harmandir Sahib and Darbar Sahib, Golden Temple is a revered Sikh shrine that is visited by people of all faiths in huge numbers every year. Made up of marble, a distinguishing gold-plate upper part and dome is the best feature of this structure.

One of the five Takhts of the Sikh community called Akal Takht Sahib, its complex has a holy pond (Amrit Sarovar) where the visitors take a dip to wash away all their sins. A symbol of human brotherhood and equality, this sacred site was designed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru of Sikhism.

4.Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Mehrangarh fort - One of the largest forts in India

One of the largest forts in India, Mehrangarh fort is probably the most popular attraction of Jodhpur and a popular landmark too. This invincible beauty has been well-preserved and is positioned on a perpendicular cliff, guarding the ‘blue city’.

Constructed around 1460 by Rao Jodha (the founder of Jodhpur), this fort has as many as seven tall gates and houses a well-stocked museum too. Do not miss the royal palanquins, costumes, arms and paintings here. This mighty fort was built in a span of 500 years and this adorns several styles of architectures.

See More:
Top 20 Things To Do in Jodhpur

5.Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, Delhi

Opened in the year 2005 for visitors, the expansive Swaminarayan Akshardham or Akshardham is a popular Hindu temple complex that lies on the banks of River Yamuna in east Delhi. One of the largest complete Hindu temple complexes in the word, it is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the founder of Swaminarayan Hinduism, a modern sect of Hinduism.

A wonderful show of art, culture, history and architecture of India, this huge complex comprises of a musical fountain, a canteen, well-maintained lush garden, the main temple, and a special boat ride with movie (water show).

6.Qutab Minar, Delhi

Image Source : retinacharmer.com

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quab Minar boasts of being the world’s tallest brick minaret, erected in an early Indo–Islamic architecture. The second tallest minar in the country, this 73-m structure was erected 1193 by ruler Qutab-ud-din Aibak right after defeating of the last Hindu king of Delhi.

This is five-storeyed tower with beautiful elaborate carvings as well as verses from the holy book, Quran. The Qutub Minar complex is dotted with a number of other historical structures also such as Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the Iron Pillar of Delhi, the Tomb of Imam Zamin, Alai Minar, the Tomb of Iltutmish and Ala-ud-din’s Madrasa and Tomb.

7.Agra Fort, Agra

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra, just 2.5 km away from the breathtaking Taj Mahal, the magnificent Agra Fort is one of the best Mughal structures in India. Originally a Rajputana brick fort, it was captured and reconstructed by Emperor Akbar, making it its capital in 1558. While the red sandstone part of the fort was by Emperor Akbar, the marble structures were commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan.

Within the premises of the Agra Fort complex, there are a number of structures that are worth-exploring. Some of such buildings include Diwan i Am, DIwan i Khas, Jahangir Palace, Shesh Mahal, Moti Masjid, Palace of Jodha Bai, Anguri Bagh, Nagina Masjid, Saman Burj, Khas Mahal, Elephant Gate and so on.

8.Khajuraho Temples, Khajuraho

Khajuraho Group of Monuments, another popular World Heritage Site in India, is one of the most-visited attractions in Madhya Pradesh. Promoting erotica, love and worship, there are more than 20 temples, which are finest architectural marvels with detailed carvings. These stunning medieval monuments were erected by the Chandela rulers between AD 900 and 1130.

Divided into Eastern and Western Group of temples, they include Hindu as well as Jain places of worship. Lakshman temple, Chitragupta temple, Kandariya Mahadev temple, Vishwanath temple, Devi Jagadambi temple, Duladeo temple, Parsvanath temple, Adinath temple, Javari temple and Varaha temple along with other are some of the popular temples here.

9.Humayun's Tomb, Delhi

Built in 1569-70 by Emperor Akbar, son of Emperor Humayun and designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, a Persian architect, it is the tomb of Humayun. The first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, this tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A synthesis of Persian architecture and Indian styles of architecture, this mausoleum has lovely water channels and pathways. This was the site where Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar took refuge with 3 princes during the first war of Independence in 1857.

The Humayun tomb complex has a number of other structures too such as Tomb and mosque of Isa Kha, Afsarwala Tomb and mosque, Bu Halima's Tomb and Garden, Nila Gumbad, Araba Sarai, Barber's tomb, and Chillah Nizamuddin Aulia. Located opposite Nizamuddin Dargah, it can be visited from sunrise to sunset.

10.Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

One of the finest and popular temples in South India, Brihadeeswarar Temple is erected out of granite stone and boasts of being over 1000 years old. One of the oldest temples in India that are dedicated to Lord Shiva, it has a dome that is higher than 60 m. Also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil, RajaRajeswara Temple and Rajarajeswaram, it is a wonderful example of Dravidian temple architecture.

It is also one of India’s largest temples. A part of the World Heritage Site known as the Great Living Chola Temples, Brihadesswarar temple was commissioned during the Chola period. The main temple is in the center of the huge quadrangle-shaped complex and comprises of a Nandi bull statue, a pillared hall as well as an assembly hall / mandapa along with a number of other sub-shrines.

11.India Gate, Delhi

A popular landmark as well as one of the most popular attractions in Delhi, the India Gate is a war memorial, positioned on the Rajpath. This 42-m high structure takes its cue from Arc-de-Triomphe, its French equivalent. It was constructed as a commemoration of over 13,516 British and Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives on the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919, carrying their names on its walls. It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and its foundation was in 1921 laid by His Royal Highness, the Duke of Connaught.

Made of red Bharatpur stone, this structure also has an addition called Amar Jawan Jyoti, dedicated to those martyrs who laid their lives in the Indo-Pak war in 1971. The flame keeps burning day and night. The structure is surrounded by lush well-maintained lawns.

12.Gateway of India, Mumbai

Overlooking the Arabian Sea, one of the most popular landmarks as well as tourist attractions in Mumbai, the Gateway of India is placed on the waterfront in the Apollo Bunder area. Built in Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, it was made was to commemorate the visit of first British Monarch, King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay (Mumbai) in March 1911. However, the construction of the Gateway was completed only in 1924.

This daunting yellow basalt architecture is flocked by locals, tourists, photography enthusiasts as well as hawkers all throughout the day. This 26 m high structure has four towers and elaborate latticework.

13.Red Fort, Delhi

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Delhi, the mighty Red Fort or Lal Quila was the official residence of the Mughal Emperor of India for around 200 years, until year 1857. Constructed in the year 1648 by the 5th Mughal Emperor in India Shah Jahan as the palace of his capital Shahjahanabad after coming from Agra, this red sandstone structure houses a number of well-stocked museums. It also boasts of owning a few huge gates like Lahori Gate, Delhi Gate and Water Gate.

The Drum House, the white marble Hall of Private Audiences, the Hall of Public Audiences, Palace of Color, the Pearl Mosque and Royal Baths are some of the popular structures inside the Red Fort Complex. A fusion of Timurid and Persian traditions of architecture, this mighty fort today becomes the venue of the main event on the Independence Day.

[ Read More About Red Fort in Delhi ]

14.Mysore Palace, Mysore

Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, Mysore palace the city’s popular landmark, is the residence as well as seat of the Wodeyars, the royal family of Mysore, who ruled from 1399 to 1950. The original palace was in wood that got burnt in 1897 during a wedding ceremony. Rebuilt in the year 1912, the present three-storey structure is in Indo-Saracenic style, bringing together Hindu, Rajput, Muslim, and Gothic architecture traditions.

Now turned into a museum, it possess priceless royal souvenirs, jewelry, paintings, costumes and other things, that were owned by the Wodeyars. Boasting of stunning stained glass and mirrors, this glorious palace every year becomes the venue for the very popular Mysuru Dasara festival. The palace complex comprises of Public Durbar Hall, Private Durbar, Gombe Thotti (Doll’s Pavilion), Portrait Gallery, Kalyana Mantapa, Casket room, and various temples such as Kodi Bharravasvami Temple, Sri Shweta Varahaswamy Temple, Sri Lakshmiramana Swami Temple etc.

15.Charminar, Hyderabad

One of the most popular mosques and monuments in Hyderabad, the Charminar was erected in 1591 CE by Mohammed Quli Qutab Shah, the 5th sultan of the Qutub Shahi dynasty of India. Positioned on the eastern banks of River Musi, this 400-yr old structure is often referred to as the ‘Arc de triomphe of the East’. This is a square- shaped structure with four festooned minarets in each of the corners, from where it derives its name.

With the popular Laad Bazaar on the west and beautifully ornamented Makkah Masjid on the southwest, the Charminar boasts of a bustling surrounding. From the gallery on the first floor, the visitors can enjoy a lovely views of the surrounding area. It is believed that the ruler built this structure to commemorate the eradication of plague, which was widespread at that time.

16.Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

 

A popular landmark of Madurai and one of the most important temples in South India, Meenakshi Amman Temple is a Hindu temple that is placed on the banks of River Vaigai. One of the largest temple complexes in Tamil Nadu state, this magnificent Dravidian architecture is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, here known as Meenakshi, and her consort, Lord Shiva, known as Sundareswarar.

Encircled by high walls, the temple complex has 2 sanctums, dedicated to Sundareshwara and Meenakshi, enveloped by a few sub shrines and a pillared halls. The remarkable 12 gopurams of Meenakshi Amman temple are festooned with stucco figures of mythical animas, deities and monsters in various colors. The yearly 10-day Meenakshi Tirukalyanam festival, in April and May, attracts around 1 million devotees.

17.Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

One of the most popular attractions in Jaipur, Hawa Mahal is a stunning 5-storeyed structure that was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh of Kachhwaha Rajput dynasty in 1799. It is known for its honeycomb of a beehive-like structure with 953 small jharokhas / windows complex latticework through which the royal ladies used to observe day-to-day life on the street below without them being seen by anyone. Designed by Lal Chand Ustad, he drafted it in the form of the crown of Lord Krishna as the commission ruler was the ardent devotee of the Lord.

The entrance of Hawa Mahal is on the backside, leading to a huge courtyard enclosed by two-storeyed structures on 3 sides. An interesting thing about this structure is that it does not have stairs and the floors are connected through slopes. The palace also has a well-stocked archeological museum.

See More:

Top 12 Tourist Attractions in Jaipur 

Best Luxury Hotels in Jaipur 

Hill fort of Rajasthan

18.Jama Masjid, Delhi

The largest mosque in India, Jama Masjid is counted as one of 10 most famous Jama Masjid mosques in the country. Also known as Masjid-i Jahān-Numā, this was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between1644 and 1658. The mighty structure of the mosque is in red sandstone and marble and was made by over 5000 artisans. The first 3 storeys of the mosque tower are in red sandstone, the 4th is made of marble, and the 5th one is in sandstone.

The walls of Jama Masjid have detailed carvings as well as verses from the holy Quran. The spacious courtyard of the mosque can accommodate as many as 25000 worshipers at one time. This adorned mosque has three grand gates, two minarets and four towers. Each of the 5 storeys of the mosque has balconies.

19.Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), a historic railway station in Mumbai and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was formerly known as Victoria Terminus. A fine example of Victorian-Gothic style of architecture in India, it is also has shades of Mughal architectural traditions. One of the best railway stations in India, its construction started in 1878 and was completed in 10 years. Designed by the British architect F.W. Stevens, the structure has wonderful amalgam of British and Indian designs.

A popular landmark of Mumbai, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus spread in an area of 2.85 hectares and is used by as many as 3 million commuters. The turrets and the pointed arches of the station look remarkable. While the main structure is made up of sandstone and limestone, the interiors are adorned with high-quality Italian marble. It has also been the shooting site of a number of Bollywood movies as well as Oscar-winning movie ‘Slumdog Millionaire’.

20.Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

 

Constructed between 1906 and 1921in the memory of Queen Victorial, The Victoria Memorial is a white marble building that has now been turned into a museum. One of the top tourist attractions in Kolkata, it is also popular for its lush gardens, defined domes and a special, huge royal gallery. Placed alongside the banks of River Hooghly, this memorial has Indo-Saracenic revivalist architecture style, using touches of Mughal, British, Islamic, Venetian and Egyptian traditions of architecture.

While the foundation of the memorial was laid by the Prince of Wales in 1906, its inauguration was done in 1921. The museum houses a wonderful collection of British Raj paintings, Victoria memorabilia along with other showcases such as weapons, coins, maps sculptors, textiles and stamps.

Related Post:

Most Haunted Places in the World
Most Awe Inspiring Landmarks in the World
Most Romantic Islands in the World
Top Luxury Trains in the World

20 Most Spectacular Sunrise and Sunset Points in India

Best Luxury Trains Honeymoon an Unforgettable Memory by Rail

March 19, 2016, 5:24 am

≫ Next: Delhi To Agra Aboard Gatimaan Express: A High Speed Luxury Train Journey

≪ Previous: 20 Amazing Indian Monuments and Landmarks

$

0

0

Forget the destinations for your honeymoon. Now try out luxury trains for honeymoon. Experience luxurious accommodations, amazing culinary, breathtaking scenery, plus the sightseeing at some of the world's most iconic destinations choosing a romantic train journey. Luxury trains makes your honeymoon an unforgettable memory. 

For a cherished experience for your upcoming honeymoon, consider these 15 of the best luxury trains for honeymoon. Voyaging all over the world, you have some tough to choose options listed below.

1. Maharajas' Express

Maharajas’ Express is an irresistibly romantic train journey. Honeymoon couples will have a wonderful time as they board, the ‘three time winner’ of World Luxury Train Award. The train has five specially designed itineraries of 7 nights to 3 nights. The best recommended for couples on honeymoon is ‘Heritage of India’. This journey covers the Taj Mahal, Ajanta Caves, Lake Pichola, Jodhpur, Jaipur and Ranthambore. Spend time in the lavish suites, observation carriage with its own bar, games table, club and two fine-dining restaurants. There are stops in 5-star resorts where a pampering stay is assured. Create wonderful memories!

Expected Rates: 4 Days/ 3 Nights Journey from USD 3,850 per person

2. The Blue Train - Cape Town to Pretoria

The Blue Train is not a travel through the breathtaking scenery of South Africa, it is a travel back to bygone era. One of the most luxurious train journeys in the world, even Kings and Presidents are impressed. The vintage train travels approximately 990 miles in between Pretoria and Cape Town on a one night, two day adventure. Couples on honeymoon can enjoy the comforts of their suite. Regional wine, delicious meals and romantic ambiance are a bonus for love birds. The extraordinary scenery of Kruger National Park with the lavish features of your ride is unrivalled.

Expected Rates: 30 Hours from Cape Town to Pretoria starting from USD 902 per person

3. The Jose Cuervo Train

Image Source

A ride on Mexico's Jose Cuervo Train is an unforgettable experience. Honeymoon couples can romance in the Mexican essence. The train voyages a 9 hour journey form Guadalajara, Tequila and back. The premium plus cabins are luxurious in designs. The Club Bar and Bar Wagon provide the perfect seat for watching the fields of agave pass by. Meals included delicious platters, fresh fruit followed by snacks and beverages prepared with tequila. The tour of Jose Cuervo distillery and the Reserva de la Familiar cellars are remarkable. The classic Mexican town of Tequila is an interesting stop-over of the train.

Expected rates: The 9 hour journey costs USD 1900 per person

4. Belmond Royal Scotsman - Classic Journey

For couples on honeymoon, Belmont Royal Scotsman is spectacular. The Classic journey of the train offers an unrivalled discovery of Scotland in Style. Travel in traditional style and elegant comfort. The breathtaking scenery of Scotland and the Highlands are perfect for romance. Life on the train is relaxed and indulgent. The intimate country-house atmosphere makes your honeymoon memorable. The private suites are comfy. Amenities pamper your stay. Relish the delicious food and wine served on board. At the regular stops, take part in activities such as clay highland safaris, pigeon shooting, fishing, visits to local castles and grand country estates.

Expected Rates: For 5 days/4nights- tour tariffs start at USD 7,113 per person

5. Deccan Odyssey

The luxury train, Deccan Odyssey is known for its extravagant ride through intriguing history Maratha Kingdom. All train routes are voyage to the age of romance and royalty. The incredible journey, creates cherished memories of your honeymoon. From exploring architectural marvels, visit to world heritage sites, adventures in the wilderness to cultural experiences, select from 6 great itineraries of the train. The state-of-the-art amenities enhance the extravagance. Indulge in the comfy setting of your suites. The 5-star restaurants, club and lounge tantalize your taste buds. Stops at hotels offers massages and day spas. Celebrate love on your luxury train honeymoon.

Expected rates: For every itinerary for 7 Nights / 8 Days tariffs start at USD 5810 per person

6. Belmond Grand Hibernian - Grand Tour of Ireland

The newest addition to luxury trains in the world, Belmond Grand Hibernian offers an exquisite tour of the Emerald Isle, Ireland. Honeymoon couples step aboard the dazzling world of romantic indulgence. The contemporary carriages are inspired by Dublin’s architecture. The fine cuisine enhanced with local delicacies. The ever-changing backdrop of Ireland’s celebrated landscapes is bliss. The rail journeys include a selection of two-, four- and six-night journeys. All departures are from Dublin and cover the tourist attractions of both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Explore prehistoric castles, spot rare wildlife, taste famous whiskies and visit lively cities. 

Expected Rates: For 7 days/6 nights tariffs start at USD 8,648 per person

7. Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels is the most iconic luxury train of India. The romantic train travel has inspired couples since decades. Enjoy travelling in India like royalty. On an eight- day and seven-night adventure throughout Rajasthan, explore love. The train travels through the land of forts, palaces and sand dunes, and the icon of love, Taj Mahal in Agra. There are air-conditioned private suites, complete with lavish facilities. The train also has two extravagant restaurants, one bar and four service cars. Not just a romantic honeymoon, the train can also fulfill the wish to get married on the train.

Expecte rates: 7 nights/8 days journey costs USD 4550 per person

8. Rovos Rail

The Pride of Africa is perfect for honeymoon couples seeking to get some adventure. The luxury train offers a 4-day, 3-night adventure. Traverse through the most beautiful landscapes in Southern Africa. The journey starts in Pretoria then moves into Botswana, where is passes through the Hwange Game Reserve. During this part of the trip, you can often see wilderness from your private suite window. Finally, the train makes its way to Victoria Falls, one of the world’s natural wonders. The pleasurable luxuries of your suites, club lounge, restaurant creates wonderful memories. The South African wines will tantalize you states buds.

Expected rates: For 3 Days/ 3 Nights tariffs from R17,495 per person

9. Venice Simplon Orient Express

The luxury train, Venice Simplon Orient Express travels is to one of world’s most romantic destination, Venice. Known for its canal rides, islands and timeless palaces, the famous Italian city is timeless masterpiece for romance. It is a perfect starting point for a luxury honeymoon in Europe. Travel through the breathtaking scenery of Europe. The train cars are restored vintage luxurious cars built in 1920’s and 30’s.  The intimate settings are perfect for the honeymoon couples. Enjoy the decadent cuisines. Sip delicious wines and cocktails. You very own private steward meets all your wishes. It’s a gift for honeymoon couples.

Expected rates: For 5 Days/ 4 Nights prices start at USD 4,028.00 per person

10. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is the upgraded version of Palace on Wheels. Just like its inspiration, the luxury train exemplifies extravagant travelling. The interiors are suffused with the wistful memories of an era bygone. The blend of grandeur and elegance with impeccable hospitality reminds of the royalty. Voyaging through the marvelous forts, palaces, temples, sand dunes, magnificent history, it is an insight of the wonderful culture of India. The state-of-the-art amenities pampers guests. The gourmet cuisines and the selection of drinks are simply exquisite. The remarkable travel experience of Rajasthan is just what honeymoon couples wish for.

Expected Rates: For 7 nights/ 8 days costs start from USD 4725 per person

11. The Golden Eagle Luxury Trains’ Arctic Explorer - Quest for the Northern Lights

The Golden Eagle Luxury Train Arctic Explorer train offers couples a honeymoon to cherish forever. This train offers the chance to see the Aurora Borealis in a very exclusive way. The Golden Eagle begins its journey in St. Petersburg, Russia. The train then makes its way through Norway to the Arctic Circle. The Northern Lights here are brighter than anywhere else on earth. This unforgettable journey has stops in St Petersburg, Kirkenes (Norway), Murmansk, Petrozavodsk, Vladimir, Suzdal and Moscow. These cities are blessed with some of the most breathtaking sceneries. The luxury train makes the journey but a cherished experience.

Expected rates: 12 Days/ 11 Nights prices start at USD 11,995 per person

12. The Ghan - Expedition Journey - Australia

Regarded as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, The Ghan delivers so much more than a luxury train ride. The legendary train takes deep into the heart of Australia. Discover the rich heritage. Honeymoon couples are offered a holiday of incredible experiences. Enjoy the comfort and solitude of your private cabin. Gaze out of the window soaking up the ever changing landscape. The train stops for adventures. Experience the dramatic scenery of central Australia. Indulge in multi-course meals served. Drink the finest Australian wine. Relax in luxurious and spacious private cabins. This is a unique honeymoon in Australia.

Expected Rates: For 4 Days/3 Nights prices start from USD 1,764.41 per person

13. The Eastern and Oriental Express- Fables of the Peninsulas

For couples looking to explore Southeast Asia, the Eastern and Oriental Express offers the Fables of the Peninsula journey. This luxury train voyages from Singapore to Bangkok, with halts in Penang and Kuala Lumpur. The views are breathtaking, amenities convivial and experience a memory of a lifetime. The indulgent accommodations of the train are replete with all luxuries. Savor the delightful cuisine and cocktails of the fabled lands. Gaze through the passing the rural villages and vibrant cities. The Eastern and Oriental Express is a romantic way to explore Southeast Asia. Honeymoon couples return home with cherished memories.

Expected rates: For 7 Days/ 6 Nights tariffs from USD 7,900 per person

14. Hiram Bingham - Cuzco to Machu Picchu

Hiram Bingham is a luxury train taking you on a ride that transports you to centuries back. The luxury train offers a trip of unforgettable memories. Pass through breathtaking scenery as you indulge in the premium extravagance of your ride. Couples on honeymoon interested in history cannot have a better option than this. The train goes on a round trip experience from Cuzco to the famous Incan ruins of Machu Picchu. On the one day-journey, get to enjoy a lavish brunch with Peruvian wines. Traditional entertainers of Peru mesmerize you. The magical journey becomes your favorite memory of your honeymoon.

Expected rates: The 1 Day tariff start at USD 734 per person

15. Napa Valley Train - Day Excursion

Napa Valley train is not a luxury train with overnight accommodations, it is a day-trip creating a cherished experience. The train travels only a 36 mile journey but is without doubt amorous. This memorable excursion of 3-4 hours takes riders through scenic Napa Valley wine terrain. In masterfully restored vintage rail cars, discover the heart of the California wine-country. For the food and wine loving honeymoon couples, it is simply wonderful. The train offers a variety of experiences. Enjoy regional food and fantastic wines (including tastings), and the unmatched panoramic views. Enjoy a gourmet lunch with your loved one here.

Expected Rates: The 3-4 hours journey starts from USD 124 per person

Plan out your honeymoon or a romantic getaway in these luxury rides.

Related Post:
Top 10 Luxury Trains in the World
Best Rail Journeys in the World
World's Most Spectacular Train Stations 

Delhi To Agra Aboard Gatimaan Express: A High Speed Luxury Train Journey

April 4, 2016, 2:57 am

≫ Next: Top 12 River Cruises In India For Your Next Vacation!

≪ Previous: Best Luxury Trains Honeymoon an Unforgettable Memory by Rail

$

0

0

Your next visit to Taj Mahal, the icon of love in Taj Mahal can now be an unforgettable experience. Here is an option to make a high-speed luxury trip. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a subsidiary of the Indian Railways, has come up with an extravagance. 

Creating a new history in the pages of Indian Railways, Gatimaan Express is the projected fastest luxury train between Delhi and Agra. The inaugural run of the train, from Hazrat Nizamuddin to Agra Cantt will be flagged off by Union railways minister Suresh Prabhu on April 5.

According to reports, the train with 12 AC coaches will complete the journey in 100 minutes as against the Shatabdi Express which takes 117 minutes. The travelers of the train are offered two luxurious tour packages. These packages offer an overnight stay at five-star accommodation, multi-cuisine meals, visit to the UNESCO world-heritage monument besides the travel to and from Agra.

According to IRCTC officials, the luxury train package will offer people a cheaper alternative to traveling on the 'Palace on Wheels' category of trains, which are synonymous with luxury and comfort.

The booking for the tour packages started from April 1 and will continue till May 31. There are two options available, single-day tour and an overnight stay. The cost of the packages ranges from 2,100 to 17,000 INR per head Costs vary according to the travelers’ nationality and the kind of accommodation he/she opts for.

A K Manocha, chairman and managing director, IRCTC says "It will be an entirely different experience.” The packages at present are providing accommodation at a five-star hotel, JP Palace. The package includes your stay, meals, site-seeing and the commuting. Passengers will also get a wide selection of food, including Indian and Italian.

Priority is given to cleanliness and the best quality of food. Plans are made to introduce television and other entertainment facilities on board on the basis of feedback received from passengers. A multi-lingual audio guide is also being planned for the benefit of tourists.

A senior railway official said that the Gatimaan Express are fitted with automatic doors. It will also offer free Wi-Fi to travelers. The train's fare will be a little more than that of Shatabadi Express. It will run six days a week except for Friday, the day when the Taj Mahal is closed for visitors.

Related Post:

Top Mind Blowing Facts About Indian Railways
Why Choose Indian Railways for Traveling in India 
How to Book Train Ticket in India 

Luxurious 'Make in India' New Train 
Top 25 Scenic Train Routes in India

Best Luxury Trains Honeymoon by Rail