Guest Post Archives - Page 3 of 3

Top Luxury Hotels In India

June 8, 2019November 20, 2019 AnandPatel2 Comments

India has a long history of tourism, Hinduism & culture. It is the center of two civilization of the world one is Indus valley civilization and the other one is Aryan civilization. Tourism in India started in the early sixties. The best prominent way to introduce India to foreigners and to the tourists is that India is a country of all seasons and all reasons. The geographical structure is so diverse, colorful and varied that it will take many visits to cover it completely. Safety is one aspect that everyone should be aware of one should take his or her safety in priority to avoid any personal injury.

So with great structures and historic places every tourist country need a different type of hotels where the tourist could come along and have a peaceful and luxury stay. In India, there are hotels counted as one of the best in the business in this regard. There are palaces of Mughal period which are now turned into hotels and are eventually a tourist place too where they can enjoy the stay along with history.

Some of the famous top hotels where you should definitely check in without thinking twice are as follow:

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur:

Maharana Jagat Singh II of Udaipur built a pleasure palace on the lake of Pichola in 1746, which Maharana called as the Jag Niwas. And it is today the majestic and magnificent Taj Lack Palace of Udaipur. It got world-renowned when the James Bond Film “Octopussy” was filmed. You can meet the palace’s phenomenal structure in the middle of the lake. It is the most romantic of hotels in India, it is an ideal venue for tourists to stay at least for a night mainly to enjoy a gorgeous view of surroundings from dawn to dusk. It also provides you package where they especially give you a tour of the city on their vintage cars.

Samode Haveli, Jaipur:

It is an urban oasis situated in the historic walled city of Jaipur, Samonde haveli is full of Indian tradition, culture and reflecting it colors set in a lush green garden with apartments arranged around of warm courtyards. It is a magnificent structure built about 175 years ago as a residence of the rulers of Samode, which still occupied by their descendants, who converted this prestigious home into luxury and tourist hotel.

Rambagh Palace, Jaipur:

It was built in 1835 and the palace has gone through many royal transitions like from the house of the favorite handmaiden of Queen, to the royal guest house and the hunting lodges. It is now a jewel that now offers a breathtaking 78 stunningly decorated grand luxury rooms and suites which were the chambers of the former Maharaja. It has extravagantly designed hand craved ‘jalis’ or latticework, cenotaphs and elaborate Mughal Gardens.

The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata:

Situated in India’s most toured and beautiful city. The rooms here are specially designed and suited for business and leisure travelers. It has the finest heritage style, superb furnishings & modern technology. The Dining Restaurant here serves food from all over the world along with Bar of all variety wines etc. they also offers city tour, swimming and fitness facilities.

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur:

This historic palace was built in between 1928-1943, it is a masterpiece of Rajasthan’s heritage and a sign of new Jodhpur. It is the world’s 6th largest private residence. Set within the 26 acres of lush green gardens where beautiful peacocks dance. It offers 70 absolutely breathtaking Art Deco-style rooms and suits. Tempt your taste buds at Risala with original Rajasthani and Indian Cuisine.

Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai:

It was opened in 1903, it is said to be the first harbor landmark. It has hosted many big personalities, kings, dignitaries and eminent politician around the globe. It has 285 elegant rooms, rich in history and modern facilities. It hosts 9 of the city’s most reputed restaurants and bars.

Ratan Villas,Jodhpur:

Ratan Villa is one of the most famous hotels in Jodhpur, it has won people’s choice award for straight five years from 2009-2013. It has a building constructed keeping in view the culture and heritage of the area and India. Situated around the lush green trees and with the red building, it gives a charming and warm look that no every eye catches.

The Imperial, Delhi:

It is an oasis of peace and charm that sums up the understanding of what masterpiece it is. It has won the prestigious title of ‘Best Heritage Hotel’ by the Jury-outlook Travelers awards 2018. It is among the only 7 hotels in India which have been listed in the Conde Nast Gold List for 2018. The royal palms decoded alongside the halls that lead to the porch are an essential part of and portrays the very creation of Delhi. Including the imperial looks the rooms and the building has is one finest thing in the whole of India.

The Coconut Lagoon, Kerala:

The interaction of the coconut woods and backwater canals, with the old traditional wooden Keralan homes, restored, conserved and cherished. The coconut lagoon is located in a sheltered and charming bay in Kumarakom, this resort reflects the variety and splendor of Vemband Lake. The old agricultural homes are rebuilt to propose you an entry into a lively and delightful world following the gentle pulse of backwaters.

The Coconut Lagoon Luxury Hotel In India

Palais De Mahe, Pondicherry:

One of the peaceful and elegantly built hotels of India. It lies close to the seaside walkway, hardly 50m from the beauty of the sea and to feel the coolness in the breeze of Bay of Bengal. This symbolic hotel with its grand courtyard, deep porches, attractive decent pillars & period furniture mix the south Indian fire and flavor with the French strength and passion to bring you to an experience that is in every way remarkable and unforgettable.

This is a guest post. I hope this will help you to book your next luxury stay in India. For more informations, you can subscribe to my blog.

Hostel Review “Live Free Hostel Rishikesh”

May 17, 2019November 20, 2019 AnandPatel

Rishikesh is a yoga capital of World & even if you are not interested in this age-old art, there are plenty of other reasons why one should visit this place?. Some of these are river rafting, camping, etc. Rishikesh is not a costly place as many pilgrims visit this place on a tight budget.

Youth hostels are slowly but surely crawling in the hotel industry. Few years back people were handicapped of the choices. But, now there is no such worry. Nowadays, one can find plenty of options in different ranges to choose from. Rishikesh also has plenty of options to choose from & if you are on a budget, then this option can just be perfect for you.

Live Free Hostel

This hostel is located near the famous attraction, Lakshman Jhula. The hostel is located near the prime location; all the famous cafes like German Bakery, Beatles cafe, Ganga Beach Cafe, etc are at a walkable distance. Further, the location is perfect to catch a vehicle to the city.

Why Choose This Hostel?

Location: Located approx 600 Mts from Lakshman Jhula, it makes this hostel place to stay. Further, there are many ashrams near the place which can further help you to rejuvenate & chill.

Hospitality: There is a reception & a common area where one will find helpers. All of the crew is nice & will help you in the best possible way.

Activities: You can book most of the activities from the reception & the rates will be as per the market. So, why to go around the market & bargaining for activities. They have collaboration with good companies which provide the best services. Also, they can help you get scooters with a meager rate of Rs 400.

Price: The cost of a dorm bed in an 8-bed room is Rs 300 which is slightly costly compared to more touristic destinations. But, looking at the place & room condition. The price seems to be appropriate.

Room Facilities: The room has bedsheet, bed curtains, bed light, AC & bathroom. The room condition is pretty good at the present time.

I stayed at this place during my trip to Rishikesh in Apr 2019. It was a decent place to stay & relax. You can book your stay from here Live Free Hostel

Reasons To Fall In Love With Singapore

February 15, 2019November 20, 2019 AnandPatel

What does the idea of Singapore mean to you?

Does the name make you think of a vibrant, lively and ever-growing island city-state? Or does it conjure up visions of temples, colour and golden beaches? Or perhaps lush, untamed tropical landscapes with abundant wildlife comes to mind? That’s the thing about the Republic of Singapore, it has many sides and much to offer. Not least because it covers 62 smaller islets alongside the main island.

Here are just five reasons to fall in love with Singapore.

Dedicated to delighting visitors

Singapore works hard to make sure its visitors are well looked after, extending the highest possible standards of customer service. Singapore’s Changi airport is regularly recognised as the best in the world (both from industry and consumer bodies). The airport has sleeping areas, a swimming pool, cinema, market food stalls, beauty and reflexology centres, as well as children’s play areas and a nature trail!

The best things come in small packages

This small country packs a mighty punch in its history, landscape and strong national identity, and you can see so much of this without having to travel far.

For example, though Singapore is famous for its stunning architecture and high-end shops, you can still haggle for bargains at timeless local street markets. Also, you could be wandering its bustling city streets, then within a short time move to lounging on vast stretches of flawless sand. It is easy to get around using the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), buses, taxis and water taxis.

Singapore is simply a beach lovers heaven, especially between November and March, when the climate is perfect for swimming, water sports and other activities. However, there are plenty of places to go for privacy and long, solitary walks, too.

All that is modern and marvellous

All around Singapore you can see how visionary architects have used cutting edge creativity to develop the skyline. This is especially true of Marina Bay Sands and Sands Sky Park (nicknamed the “celestial surfboard”) with its awe-inspiring infinity pool views across the city.

Follow this link to research these world-renown developments in more detail.

Meanwhile, at ground level, strict laws and an army of 50,000 staff maintain Singapore’s reputation for having the cleanest streets in the world.

Fabulous food

If all this is not enough to tempt you to book a flight, Singapore has some of the best restaurants and national cuisine of any country. What’s even more tempting is that this diverse and delicious food is also highly affordable.

Such is the wonder of dining out in this country, travel writer Ben Groundwater believes “Food isn’t a reason to visit Singapore – it’s the reason.”

Abundant natural charms

For all the wonders that humankind has brought to Singapore, for many visitors, its primary attraction is a network of islands, places that time forgot.

One of the most popular is Pulau Ubin, which provides a charming window into 1960s Singapore. Sentosa is a well-developed island, including hosting Singapore’s Universal Studios. In sharp contrast, St. John’s Island is a former quarantine station and offers secluded beaches and havens of peace. It’s also a fishing paradise.

To explore Pulau Semakau, which is rich in biodiversity and untamed nature, you have to ask permission of the National Environmental Agency.

Do you fancy spotting seahorses or sharks on a snorkelling adventure? Sisters’ Islands is a popular Marine Park in Singapore.

Clearly, the islands hold adventures and activities, but make sure you use reputable guides and transport. Well thought out travel insurance is a must for any holiday, but particularly if you decide to explore off the beaten track on Singapore’s islands.

Read more about Singapore island adventures with this fascinating guide.

Top 5 Hikes in India

November 12, 2018November 20, 2019 AnandPatel

Guest posts are always welcome on my website. This guest post is written by Morgan (mom of two kids); which is about the best hikes in India for visual pleasure. So, not wasting any more time & here is what this guy has to say about top 5 hikes in India.

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5 Awesome Hikes to Take in India for Great Views

India offers numerous hiking trails and it’s definitely a paradise for the hikers. From snow-covered mountains to beautiful meadows to gushing streams and waterfalls, India has it all. It doesn’t matter if you are a hardcore hiker or a backpacker. There are numerous hiking regions with varying level of difficulties. With so many places available, it’s hard to decide which one to go to. We have come up with five awesome hiking place to go where you can have the best time of your life.

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Hemkund and Valley of Flowers, Garhwal

At an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea level, the valley of flowers is an utter bliss. It’s the perfect place to start your Himalayan hiking journey as it’s one of those rare natural botanical gardens where flowers bloom in every possible color you can imagine. The best time to visit Hemkund is right after the monsoon season, during July, August, and early September, as the valley is covered with snow during the winter. This picture perfect place has the tranquil river Pushpawati flowing in the middle with snow-clad mountains on one side and a tall sky-high cliff on the other.

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There are about 520 species of flowering plants and animals such as Himalayan Black bears, Brown bears, birds and butterflies call this place their home. There are many local tales that the trekkers fall unconscious on the valley with the heavy smell of flowers. (Just giving you some heads up)

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This place is a paradise for nature and flower lovers. Every year thousands of hikers gather up during the blossom season to witness the extravagant scenario. It’s a moderately difficult hike that takes about 5 to 6 days to compete. Don’t bother taking up foods along as there are plenty of eateries on the way. Just enjoy the scenic sight of snowy mountains and the riot of colors.

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Hemkund Valley of Flowers Mark My Adventure

Great lakes, Jammu and Kashmir

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Kashmir’s divine beauty needs no introduction. The hike at the Great lakes will give you an experience that you’ll cherish forever. As the Mughal Emperor Jahangir once said “If there is Heaven on Earth, it is here”, the ethereal beauty of Kashmir surely does justice to the saying.

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The best time to enjoy this astounding place is from June to August when the trekking route is lush green and covered in thousands of blooming flowers. This is quite a challenging trek that takes about 7 to 8 days to complete. The highest altitude is at about 13,750 ft. with an approximate route of 63km long. This hiking experience will not only challenge you physically, but it will also challenge your inner strength.

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The hiking trip begins at Shitkati. You’ll experience the true beauty of nature on your way from Shitkati to Sonamarg. The greenery of the place will mesmerize you with every passing minute. The next route will take you from Nachnai Pass to Vishanshar Lake. The Vishashar Lake is a serene beauty that is surrounded by four mountains. Just after 1.2km ahead, another beauty awaits the Kishansar Lake. The maximum altitude is reached at Gadsar Pass, the final destination.

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Even though the hike is quite a difficult one, but this expedition will undoubtedly give you heaven on earth experience.

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Har Ki Dun Valley, Uttarakhand

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Haar ki dun is one of those delightful trekking places that you can experience both during winter and summer. It’s one of the most beautiful valleys in the Western Himalayas. It has an altitude of about 3500m above the sea level. You can access this place through Govind national park which is famous for its rich content of flora and fauna. This valley will give you a vintage feeling with the adjacent snow-covered peaks and alpine vegetation.

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This cradle shaped valley has local people who have been living here for around 3000 years. Birds and animals are not abundant in this region but you can spot some black bears, wild boars and few other kinds of animals if your luck favors. Har Ki Dun means the valley of Gods and this valley does live up to its name. There are four villages in this valley named Datmir, Gangad, Puani, and Osla. These villages can be accessed only by trekking. Many streams eventually join the main river is Supin. The divine meadows, wildflowers and the lush green forest create a beautiful sight during the monsoon. During winter the snow covered mountains create a picturesque sight. The whole valley stays covered in snow from the month of December to April.

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Rajmachi Fort

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If you’re upset that you can’t make time for the long hikes then the Rajmachi Fort is the perfect place for you. This beautiful trek is blessed with lush green mountains, countless waterfalls, vast plateaus and many more. It has two forts named Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. The Rajmachi Fort is situated in between the mesmerizing hills of Sahyadri. Rajmachi fort is one of the most visited hiking places in India. Hikers and nature lovers gather here to witness this ethereal beauty from time to time.

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This place has a splendid view especially during the monsoon months of June to August when the mountains are covered in fresh greenery. This is a perfect place for the beginner level hikers. The trekking distance is 16km from Lonavala. However, there are various routes available. From the base village, it takes about one hour to reach the top with few stops for snacks in between. Remember, if you’re hiking during the monsoon be extra cautious as the routes get a bit slippery during this time. The breathtaking view from the base camp to the top will give you an experience of a lifetime.

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Stok Kangri, Ladhak

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There are many long and short trails in the Leh-Ladhak district. Stok Kangri is the most challenging one you’ll face here and undoubtedly the best trails of all. This is India’s highest trekking point at a jaw-dropping 6,153 meters, which is about seventy percent of Mount Everest. This trek is no child’s game as it requires rigorous dedication, hard work, and willpower to complete. Weather plays a very vital role in this trek. One minute it can bright and sunny then the next minute it can turn in to blizzard. Most people return without climbing the peak as it gets too dangerous sometimes.

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Prior experience and health fitness are prime considerations for this hike. Before the journey starts, you need to get accustomed to the extreme weather of this place. The entire hiking journey will take around 9 to 10 days. The route starts from the Stok village which is so beautiful that it seems to have been taken out of a storybook. The mesmerizing views of Ladakh Range, Zanskar Range, and the city of Leh are an absolute treat for the eyes.

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The best time to opt for this expedition is from July to September. Every year hikers from all around the world come to participate in the Stok Kangri Summit. Even if you don’t reach the peak, you’ll surely cherish this divine experience for the rest of your life.

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Stok Kangri Mark My Adventure

About Me

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Hey all, I am Morgan, a mom with two kids. I go hiking & campingat least once a year (unless it is too cold outside). I run a blog called Outdoor Spider to talk about products you might need while living outside for a day or more.

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The guest post was on hikes in India for visual pleasure. If you are interested in sharing your content on my blog. I would be happy to post some.[spacer height=”25px”]

For more information & regular update, subscribe to my blog MarkMyAdventure.com

Prashar Lake: So Deep, It Touches Your Soul

April 21, 2018November 20, 2019 AnandPatel

Prashar lake is one of the most unexplored lakes near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. Prashar lake trek starts from the Baggi village which is around 20 km from Mandi. I’ve been wanting to visit this lake for a year and suddenly in the first week of March, I decided to trek solo.

It was solo travel, but in reality, I wasn’t traveling or trekking solo. There were lots of people I met which never made me feel alone. I thought it was up to me to go down which path, whether to make friends during my journey or choose my own path and enjoy my own moments.

Delhi to Mandi(Prashar Lake)

I took a bus from Kashmiri gate at 6:30 PM on 9 March 2018 which left me at Mandi around 6 AM the next day. The first bus from Mandi to Baggi village leaves at around 8 AM. I took a bus to Shegli immediately which is 4 km from Baggi village. I met a group which was also going to the trek. I walked and hitchhiked to Baggi village.

There were a few cafes at Baggi village where I did my breakfast. Prices were nominal, not so costly. I had a few parathas there and filled up my water bottles.

Prashar Lake trek from Baggi village:

I started my trek at 10 AM from Baggi village with the group I met on the bus. The trek started from crossing a naala and then walking straight for around a km on the rocky path. Thereafter, I entered the thick dense pine forests. It was so beautiful in between those pine trees and I didn’t meet any other person on the trek except the group which I met on the bus. I found only one source of water in the whole trek. So, it was good that I carried enough water with me. Before one km from the lake, I reached this open area and found some mud houses. It was an amazing feeling to not find a single soul in the range of a km.

After trekking for around 4 hours, I reached this beautiful peaceful lake and it was all worth it. Prashar temple also lies just near the lake and its architecture was awe-inspiring.

The lake is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of some large mountains. There is a 360-degree view of mountain ranges from the top area of the lake. Peaks of Triund, Indrahar Pass, Chamba, Hanuman Tibba, Spiti, Kinnaur and some other mountain ranges are visible from the top. There is no other two-day trek which gives such pleasant views within such a short distance.

I had my own sleeping bag with me and I knew that there were dorm rooms available in the temple. I went to the temple and talked to the Pandit Ji about the room and he told me to talk to the caretaker. Caretaker bhaiya showed me the room and gave me a mattress. And man, I swear that was one of the best nights of my life. I could see the lake from my window and it was amazing. After putting my backpack in my room, I went outside and ate some Maggi. I spent my entire evening watching the beautiful sunset and then ate Rajma Chawal and slept.

A local guy told me that there is a beautiful site 2 km from the Parashar lake. I followed the road, took a wrong turn and reached this place and enjoyed this stunning sunset alone.

Prashar lake to Mandi:

I wanted to go down by bus as I trekked while coming up here. So, I enquired about the bus from the people and took it to reach Mandi at 4:30 PM. Drive from Prashar Lake to Mandi was a treat. The bus went through some muddy path in between the lush green valley which was breathtaking for me. I ate some food at Mandi Bus Stand and took the bus to Delhi which reached at 5 AM.

Some amazing stories about this place

Till now, various attempts have been made to find the depth of this lake but no one was successful. Isn’t it astonishing in the 21st century?
It is believed that Prashar temple is built in the era of Mahabharata and the lake was created by Bhim’s elbow push.
No one is allowed to enter the fencing around the lake except the local people who use this lake as a source of water.
It is said that the small island which is in the middle of the lake changes its location with respect to the time of the year.
The water of this lake is used for drinking by the local people and it tastes amazing.

Useful Information:

Tents are available itself near the Prashar lake at the cost of Rs. 300-500
Bus from Mandi to Baggi village leaves at around 8 AM and costs around 50/-
There are a few cafes in Baggi village where you can eat and pack your lunch for the trek as there are no shops during the trek.
Direct buses also run from Mandi to Prashar lake which is the same bus that goes via Baggi village and reaches Prashar lake at 11 AM. The same bus leaves for Mandi at 1:15 PM and reaches Mandi at 4:30 PM.
Temple may also be closed in the month of January and February.
Various buses run from Delhi to Mandi in the evening and take around 11-12 hours to reach. The prices of Roadways HRTC bus is 530/-, Himmani Deluxe non-AC is 730/- and Himsuta AC Bus is around 1100/-. Prefer HRTC buses over the private ones.
This trek can be done within the budget of 1400-2000 depending on which bus you take and where you stay. I did this trek in 1400/-
You can take your tent if you want and camp near the lake.
Cost of food is nominal near the lake. Maggi costs 30/- and Rajma Chawal cost 60/-
Only Jio and Airtel networks are available at the lake.

Best season to visit:

This trek can be done at any time of the year. In winters, the lake freezes, so for the people who love snow, this lake is a blessing.

In summers, the area around the lake is fully green. This trek should be avoided in the Monsoon season as the trail gets slippery.

Prashar Lake temperature:

Temperature goes below -4 degree Celsius in the months of January and February. While in the other seasons, it’s between 10-15 degree Celsius.

Whenever you visit this lake, use water of the lake for drinking over plastic bottles. If you purchase some bottles then please take them to Mandi with you because it’s very hard to transfer all the plastics. Let’s make this beautiful lake pollution free.

This post is written by Mayank Gupta & one can follow his work at www.travelfortranquility.com.

Best Places To Visit In Kerala

April 6, 2018November 20, 2019 AnandPatel2 Comments

Marriages are made in heaven – Right. But honeymoon is always on the best place on Earth. Honeymoon is the period you get to unwind yourself in the company of your soulmate and also the very best moment to know one another. Honeymoon destinations must be romantic, serene, and awe-inspiring. The lovely state of Kerala, specially decorated by the nature, is a fantasy location of honeymooners. From misty mountains to mesmerizing shorelines, along with rich eco-friendly wilderness to palm fringed backwaters, you will find numerous spectacular & this post will take you to some of the best places to visit in Kerala.

Why Kerala?

The Kerala Honeymoon vacations offer the couples a chance to appreciate the combined practical experience of beaches, Ayurveda resorts, backwaters, wild life, hill stations, and much more in a very short span of time. Proximity of experiences that are different can make the traveling even more comfortable. I’ve mentioned few of the very best honeymoon destinations in Kerala that can accumulate romance to the love life of yours. You might choose mutually acceptable locations and also design the journey of yours ahead of time.

Munnar – Feel the Romance on the Dream Land

Popularly referred to as the ‘Kashmir on the South‘, Munnar is an ideal honeymoon location. This great environmental friendly paradise is situated with the confluence of 3 mountain streams and therefore received the name’ Munnar’, that actually means’ 3 rivers’. This spectacular location is dotted with countless stretches of tea plantations, valleys, mountains, waterfalls and lakes. A rare floral “Neela Kurinji” blossoms here once in 12 years creating the valley an azure paradise and you can witness this if you are here during 2018 as it is the blooming year. Apart from enjoying the unparalleled beauty of nature, the couples can indulge in a plethora of recreation activities such as trekking, cycling, fishing, paragliding, paddle boating and natural walk.

Located at 1,600 m above sea level within the Idukki district of Kerala, Munnar is at 110 km from Ernakulam railway station and 130 km from Cochin overseas terminal. The secret spells encircle you immediately on reaching this place and also help you move to a fantasy world of romance. You are able to enjoy the crazy existence within the Eravikulam National Park, scream aloud in the Echo Point, savor the breath taking attractiveness of Mattuppetty dam, sip a great cup of tea from a little tea store down the tea gardens or even loosen up at the homely conveniences of the magnificent resorts. The nice climate, breath taking scenic views as well as the mesmerizing fragrance of tea and also spices dispersed through the great mountain breeze force Munnar as the pinnacle among the places in Kerala and impart an unforgettable experience for honeymooners and other travelers.

Thekkady – Nature Lover ‘s Ecstasy

Thekkady, centrally located within the Idukki district of Kerala, is among the famous honeymoon places of Kerala and a great spot for couples that like adventure, wildlife, and nature. It’s the home of the prominent Periyar National Park, in which you are able to have the unique experience of seeing wildlife from closer proximity while having an enthralling motorboat ride. Sight of tigers, lion-tailed monkeys, boars, deer, bison, as well as herds of elephants originating down to edge of the lake will provide you a thrilling experience.

Located at 114 km from Kottayam railway station and 145 km from Cochin overseas terminal, Thekkady awaits you with an assortment of activities. You can go trekking in Kurisumala and Kumily; a nature walk from the unending chains of cardamom, pepper, tea and coffee plantations; and also sense the thrill of a memorable elephant safari via the wilderness. There are many luxury hotels and resorts which offer stylish accommodation, privacy and food for the honeymooners. You can have a stroll to the nearest city Kumily to shop spice, clothes and handicrafts. The tranquil and spice scented plantations, soothing climate, calm atmosphere as well as the sensational spell of wilderness can make Thekkady one of the preferred Kerala places to see with the soul mate of yours.

Alleppey – the Hub of Kerala Backwaters

A honeymoon trip to Kerala is going to be incomplete if you don’t enjoy a wonderful cruise on Alleppey backwaters and an overnight stay in a magnificent houseboat. Alleppey (the present Alappuzha), encompassed by a great community of palm-fringed backwaters, canals and lagoons, and also blessed with the natural beauty, has acquired the name’ Venice of East’. During an enchanting houseboat cruise down the tranquil backwaters within the Vembanad Lake, you are able to appreciate the picturesque landscaping, uncommon perspective of paddy areas below the water levels. House boats are floating palaces with good amenities like air conditioning, privacy, food and television.

Alappuzha is nicely connected from various regions of the nation by air and rail. Cochin international airport is just eighty five km from Alappuzha. Alappuzha is renowned for coir industry, marine products, prawn farming and banana crops. Should you be there for the duration of Onam festival, you are able to enjoy the famous Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race kept inside the Punnamada Lake, which is the main tourist attraction. With over thousand traditional Houseboats, the spectacular backwaters of Alleppey exhilarate a huge number of honeymooners and nature lovers from around the globe. With their distinctive backwater way of life and abundance of organic beauty, Alleppey is now among the very best Kerala places to go to for all the newlyweds and travel freaks.

Kochi – History, and Culture Romance

Kochi, the business hub of Kerala, in which past has left the footprints of the British, Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese as well as Arabs, is among the famous honeymoon destinations in India. Compared to other well-known Chinese sport fishing hubs, this particular place – “Queen on the Arabian Sea” will enchant you with the striking beauty of its, thrilling backwaters, peaceful islands, interesting shorelines, swaying palm forests, soothing climate and picturesque sceneries. You will find several ‘never to miss’ tourist attractions like the popular Marine Drive, Jewish Synagogue, Cherai Beach, Kochi Fort, Santa Cruz Cathedral, Bolgatty Island, along with many more.

Only a couple of kilometers off the Marine Drive will be the lovely Bolgatty Island, that is famous for the renowned Bolgatty Palace developed by the Dutch traders, Bolgatty Island Resorts, Kochi International Marina and also the Bolgatty Event Centre. The beautiful and luxurious Bolgatty Island Resort, having its peaceful ambiance created with the rejuvenating greenery of the island flanked by the peaceful Vembanad Lake, is popularly recognized as’ Honeymooner’s paradise’. You are able to have a fantastic shopping experience at Jew Street, Broadway, and Marine Drive and purchase enticing antique products, bamboo canes, carving things and numerous decorative handicrafts. The architectural and cultural wonders, romantic scent and freshness of the environment make Kochi top the list of the best suited Kerala places to go to for and gives an unforgettable honeymoon experience.

Kovalam – Add Liveliness to the Love Life

Kovalam, with 3 adjacent spectacular beaches, located at approximately sixteen km from Trivandrum, is a renown seaside destination, and one of the most sought after Kerala places to visit for honeymoons and tourists. Among the 3 crescent-shaped superficial beaches, a Light home beach is probably the most common. Couples can indulge in various activities at Kovalam. You can wander on the gentle stretches of softy sand shores, enjoy a rejuvenating sunbath, swim within the short beach, watch a spectacular sun set and enjoy varieties of scrumptious ocean foods. You are able to indulge in several daring sports such as kayaking, surfing or waterskiing. Relaxing with the life partner under the great cover from the sun in palm forests, listening to the rhythm of waves will give some enthralling occasions of solitude.

Kovalam is located at 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram railway station and 10 km from Trivandrum international terminal. Comfortable hotels as well as resorts for couples are available in Kovalam, beginning from pocket-friendly to luxury. Facilities such as Ayurveda massage centers, swimming pools, Yoga resorts, shopping zones and meeting amenities are on hand within the seaside complex. You are able to do shopping and also buy products like handicrafts, teak wood and rosewood statues. With their romantic surrounding, exotic beauty and tranquility, Kovalam consistently beckons couples for an interesting honeymoon experience.

Poovar Island – the Floating Cottages Beckon You

In case you’re longing for a honeymoon with a distinctive stay inside a solitary haven, peaceful and undisturbed, Poovar might be the best choice. Located approximately 30 km from Trivandrum, Poovar is a breathtakingly beautiful island, pristine and unexplored. Poovar is an all natural wonder with an exceptional congregation of ocean, river, beach and lake with the farm land. Famous because of its original beauty together with the whispering waves of the great Arabian ocean, peaceful backwaters, limitless stretch of mesmerizing golden sand seaside, stunning sunsets and swaying coconut farms, Poovar is unquestionably among the best of Kerala places to go to for the romantic vacation.

Poovar is a fishing village and there aren’t many things to do in poovar island like any water sports or beach activities. You will find some magnificent resorts and many small lodges that fit your budget and tastes. Staying in floating cottages supplied by the resorts will provide you a distinctive experience. These eco-friendly cottages with thatched roofs, and also draperies made from organic plants provide refreshing moments and also make sure fascinating scenic views. You are able to enjoy an unforgettable backwater cruise in a small canoe or a huge deluxe houseboat, revitalize with an Ayurvedic massage or even walk through the nearby fishing villages. Trivandrum to Poovar Island is less than an hour journey by boat. Never ever miss it; it is going to give you sweet memories for the lifetime.

The incredible Kerala has many more places to see together with your soul mate. They’ve a mesmerizing spell which takes you to much more romantic moods. Romance is there in the air; come here and breathe it!

Things To Do In Singapore

February 23, 2018November 20, 2019 AnandPatel

Parks are the sign of natural green beauty which is the actual beauty as it provides fruitful things to nature and to human beings like pure oxygen to breathe and shade from harsh sun of summers.Singapore is known for its parks and chocolates mainly. The best parks in Singapore for families and children provide a green tree and plants so as everybody can enjoy. They also have some actions which are made mainly for children like a little playground. Here is the list of things to do in Singapore .

1. Gardens by the Bay

Spreading along 101 hectares, the Gardens by the Bay is divided into 3 parts mainly –
Bay south, Bay East, Bay central. Bay South is the largest which comprises of 54
hectares. The main aim of the garden artistry is to bring the world of plants to Singapore
and hence present Singapore to the world. The entry to the garden is free but the entry to
domes is chargeable.

2. Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic gardens first opened in 1859 and hence was one of the oldest
gardens in the country. One of the most important orchid research and breeding centers
in the world, this place is home to over 10,000 species. The entry to park is free and the
park is opened from 5 am to 12 am.

3. East Coast Park

East Coast Park is the largest park in the country of Singapore, covering nearly two
square kilometers of area. They also offer barbecue pit rentals which can be booked in
advance.

4. natural reserve

Bukit Timah natural reserve is the largest a

nd oldest reserve in Singapore. 40 percent of
Singapore’s flora and fauna have a home here in this natural reserve. The park is also
crowned Singapore’s highest peak and several winding forest trails.

The theme adds on the creativity and whole new level of excitement and fun to a certain place,Singapore didn’t forget to take car

e of your interests and to keep you energetic it has various theme parks. Have a look at some of them:

5. Haw Par Villa

Its built on Chinese mythology, and has various statues and figures depicting stories of
Monkey god, Lady white snake, fearless hero Wu Song. The park also has the statue of
Laughing Buddha epitome of happiness, wealth, and long life.

6. Universal Studios Singapore

Its recently opened and has 7 different themes within it based on all major hit movies.
All the sections include rides and shows to keep the visitors entertained, the Hollywood
section is mainly a shopping centre, New York-based site where you can click selfies
with the legends such as ‘Charlie Chaplin’ and ‘Marilyn Monroe’. Moving further the
Sci-fi city consists world’s largest rollercoaster, Ancient Egypt has true ancient Egypt
aura, where you can experience ‘Revenge of the mummy’ Ride. The Lost World is based
on Jurassic Park and Water world, and for Shrek-fans, Far-Far- Away is the appropriate
place having a beautiful castle and Shrek Swamp. Last but not the least you reach
Madagascar, the place that guarantees a smile on your face and joy in your hearts, you
will love the indoor boat rides.

Basic facts from Universal Studios:

Many food outlets and shopping centers to purchase T-shirts and key rings and many
more Universal Studios Goodies.
Free storage lockers to keep your extra clothes and other essentials.
Carry umbrella and Raincoats, after all its Singapore.
It’s a total fun place for couples and families avoid weekends as they are most crowded.

Universal Studios is one of the most popular theme parks

Ajanta & Ellora Caves

February 1, 2018November 20, 2019 AnandPatel

A visit to the world heritage site “Ajanta & Ellora caves” at Aurangabad, Maharashtra was truly a beginning for me. A beginning to a search that led to a lot of other interesting findings/thought processes, leaving me more inquisitive than ever.

History

Consisting of 30 rock cut caves, Ajanta was built over a period of 900 years (2 B.C to 6 A.D). Mammoth excavations were turned to fine carvings of exceptional Buddhist sculptures and what the Archaeological Survey of India states “the finest surviving examples of Indian art, particularly painting”. It is believed that Buddhism flourished at the time Ajanta caves were built and hence the caves built during the reign of different Buddhist rulers showcase various stories of the ‘enlightened one’ and selected portions of Jataka tales. The unique paintings on the cave walls, some of which has the modern day “3D” effect, makes one ponder in utter amazement at the vast knowledge of craftsmanship and artistry that their creators possessed thousands of years ago.

Dazzling in its glory on having depicted marvelous sculptures from three different religions viz. the Buddhism, the Hinduism and the Jainism, the Ellora caves too is a spectacular piece of art.

These sculptures also bring forth a lot of facets from the bygone era which are a real treasure and evoke lot of quest around them. For instance, the sculpture that shows Ravana, the king of Srilanka whisking away Sita in the so called “Puskpak Vimana”. Now this ‘pushpak vimana’ looks exactly like the present day ‘jetpack‘ in its features, size, etc. Did Ravana have a jet pack in those times and did he use the same which people back then knew about and we don’t? Well, I was so intrigued by this that I thoroughly searched the net and here’s what I found:

All the dexterously sculpted pieces of art had story in them. Did the artists of these caves know the real stories behind several myths, worn out versions of which are left for us today?

With so many small little pathways within the caves having dead ends and spots of ventilation (big holes on the ground) all across, could there have been an underground habitation also?

This was also something that caught my deep attention.

It’s said that many Muslim rulers including Aurangzeb had sent huge number of soldiers to destroy the sculptures of Ellora caves, trying as hard as they could, they could do little harm to certain structures, unable to make a dent on the rest.

If humans couldn’t destroy even half of what was built, were these structures created by humans at all? If yes, one can only imagine what would have been their built and stamina.

For so many years, Indians as well as foreigners have been exploring the caves in search of answers. Many of them keep coming to these caves repeatedly, each time discovering something new.

For me, I had sneaked out of the ‘maximum city’ with the desire to visit these exceptional creations, to bask in the glory of the past and unravel some historical stories. I did that and much more.

As one stands in awe at one of the ancient hallmarks of artistic excellence, under the clear blue sky of Aurangabad, few questions remain unanswered. Now I know why so many travellers visit this National heritage site multiple times. I wish to go back again soon to find out more.

Following is the line which is perfect for this situation.

“Ruins for me are the beginning. With the debris, you can construct new ideas. They are symbols of a beginning.”

-Anselm Kiefer

The post is written by Puja Roy; she loves to travel to historical sites and write about her experiences and revelations. An avid reader of history herself, she also blogs at speakometer.wordpress.com.

New Zealand: A Place To Experience Finest Adventures

June 2, 2017November 20, 2019 AnandPatel

New Zealand is always one destination which is looked by world to provide some mind blowing experiences. It is dream destination for some. Here is the detail of write up provided by New Zealand tourism board. The below content is provided by them. I am posting this as a guest post after the confirmation from the board.

For the third time in a row, New Zealand has won the award for the Best International Destination for Adventure at the Lonely Planet Magazine India Travel Awards 2017. It is the fifth time that the country has been presented with the prestigious award, making it a constant favorite among magazine readers. The event was held in Mumbai on 25th May and the award was received by Ms. Neha Bhola, Country Manager India on behalf of the India team.

Speaking about the award, Steven Dixon, Regional Manager – South and South East Asia, Tourism New Zealand, said, “To continue to receive such positive endorsements from the Lonely Planet audience confirms that Indian travellers have a strong preference for the variety of adventure experiences New Zealand offers”.

He added, “Latest international arrival figures show a total of 53,792 Indian travellers visited New Zealand for the year ending April 2017. With a 14.6% increase over the last year, India is an extremely important market for New Zealand and a key contributor to our tourism sector.”

New Zealand is a popular choice due to the extensive range of nature-based and thrill-seeking activities throughout the country. The activities include skydiving, bungy jumping, scenic flights, hiking, canoeing, scuba diving, surfing, glacier walking and jet-boating.

Additional Information

Tourism New Zealand markets New Zealand to the world as a visitor destination. In the year ending April 2017, 3.6 million international visitors arrived in New Zealand: an increase of 9.9% on the previous year. International tourism is New Zealand’s largest earner of foreign exchange, pumping over $14.5 billion into the economy and directly employing over 188,000 people. www.tourismnewzealand.com

Visa procedure: One may forward their application to the TT office in Mumbai or Delhi, which will then be directed to Immigration New Zealand. A visitor visa for New Zealand is processed within 15 working days. www.immigration.govt.nz

Airline connections: Connecting flights to New Zealand are available on Singapore Airlines/Air New Zealand, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific and Malaysia Airlines with stop-overs in their respective hubs. New Zealand’s international gateways are Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown.

Domestic services: You can fly between all New Zealand cities and most major towns using domestic air services. Air New Zealand and Jetstar are the main providers. Their services are complemented by regional airlines, charter companies and scenic flight operators.

For more information, kindly check:

Website:newzealand.com/in

Rishikesh: The Place That’ll Trigger Your Wanderlust and Make You Take That First Solo Trip!

May 2, 2017November 20, 2019 Prachi2 Comments

It has almost been a year since I began travelling solo. I have backpacked across Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Rishikesh, Udaipur and Pushkar. On these trips, I have tried conventional travelling, budget travelling as well as volunteering.

Being only about 250 km from Delhi (where I currently put up), Rishikesh is very approachable for me. I have been there five times until now- twice with friends, once with family and twice solo. For an entire month, I have volunteered there in a youth hostel. I love the place and have many memories attached to it. It almost feels like home there now!

So, for all the women out there who’re planning to take their first Solo Trip, I have made a list of 8 Reasons that make Rishikesh an ideal destination!

1) SAFETY

The main question that pops up in a woman’s mind when she thinks about solo travelling is if it would be safe. Let me answer. No. Nothing in this world is safe. People have died while eating, sleeping and sitting. Well, did that make us quit any of those activities? No, right? Then, why not travel alone when you want to? I know it can be extremely intimidating, the thought of being alone and no one to depend upon except for yourself but, trust me, take the leap of faith! You’ll emerge stronger and realize that you’re capable of much more than you think!

Now, coming to Rishikesh. Being popular with backpackers, this place attracts many solo travellers from different parts of India and the World. Also, the majority of travellers in Rishikesh are the ones that arrive seeking peace and a health retreat. So, no unruly party crowd to hamper the peace! Moreover, the local economy mostly depends on tourism there so, the locals are very helpful and eager to help the tourists out.

2) MONEY

Now that you know Rishikesh is “safer” than most destinations, you check your account balance and realize that all you have is 10k and you still have to pay your flat rent of 5k, electricity bill, internet bill and other bills. You sit down, make calculations and realize that all you have left for this trip is 3k. Then, you shut your laptop, silently rest your head on the pillow and fall asleep smirking at your plans of travelling solo. “You need money to travel and you have none”, says your inner fear that secretly never wanted you to travel and venture outside your comfort zone.

Well, I’ll be your inner confidence here and tell you that with that leftover 3k, you can easily make a five-day trip to Rishikesh! Because where there’s will, there’s way and in Rishikesh where there’s a budget traveller, there’s a youth hostel! Yes! Now, get up and start looking on the internet. You can find dorm beds for as low as 250 rupees a night! And, I’ll let you in on a secret. There are Ashrams in Rishikesh that provide FREE accommodation in exchange for your attendance in a few lectures and classes. As for the food, you can find decent and tasty home made food for as low as 40 rupees a meal at Gita Bhawan!

3) YOGA

I know you work hard 5-6 days a week and are tired of the routine life. Well, you’re headed to Rishikesh, the place people consider to be the World Capital of Yoga! Go for a week long Yoga retreat or try various daily drop in classes. For the budget travellers, there are many Yoga classes on donation basis where you can pay according to your experience in that class. Yoga is one of the best ways to treat your body, bring down the stress hormones, relax your mind and get in tune with the surroundings!

4) TREKS

Rishikesh has beautiful treks around it! The Neelkanth Mahadev Trek and the Kunjapuri Temple Trek are some short single day treks that have beautiful trails with jaw dropping views! For those who love nature, these treks are highly recommended. So, grab those trekking shoes and the backpack!

5) FOOD

There are numerous Cafes and Home-food Joints in Rishikesh! Continental food, Israeli Cuisine, Ayurvedic food, Vegan food, Yogi Food and Gluten free food are easily available at the cafes. Other than these, one can find numerous small food joints that sell home made Indian food. The price of food in Rishikesh is much lower as compared to the other backpacking destinations! No matter where you come from, you will not get homesick for food here, nor will the food bill dent your pocket.

6) PEOPLE

You will meet some very different people in Rishikesh only to realize that they are no different, they just perceive life differently. On my first solo trip to Rishikesh, I met a Baba and had a nice conversation with him that changed the way I look at life now. I met Anjuna, a beautiful person whom I always find smiling despite her situation and hardships. I cannot express in words how much meeting those people has changed my life! So, go ahead and experience this place. You will carry a lot from it in your yourself and leave a lot of yourself behind.

7) CULTURE

Rishikesh is a very cultural place. The Aartis, the temples, the ceremonies and the serene atmosphere…. Immerse yourself in the culture and let it paint your soul! Take classes or self study meditation and tantra.

8) THE VIEW

Rishikesh is located on the banks of River Ganga and is surrounded by hills and mountain ranges. I spent hours on the banks just absorbing the beauty of nature and observing the life around. The roads, the daily life, the simplicity and the smell of incense in the pure air- Oh! I could live my life there.

There are hundred other reasons that I’ll leave it up to you to create your own story. Go and give yourself the perfect gift- A solo travel to this beautiful land!
Writing this post has made me really nostalgic. I hope you have the courage and the confidence to take your first solo trip and have a magical experience!
Don’t forget to comment and let me know your views on the post. To read more about my adventures as a Solo Traveller, you can visit my Travel Blog- Bachelor For Roaming