We all love Goa for our own reasons. It is a true heaven for people looking out for peace and party at the same time. Goa has various other things to do other partying and club hopping! So lets explore Goa my way:
1) Visit Old Goa: Old Goa should be on your list if you wish to know the fascinating history of Goa. It is full of archaeological museums, Churches and Cathedrals like The Jesuit Church, Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, The Se Cathedral.
2) Go on a Cruise: Sunset, Moonlight or Casino beaches on the Mandovi River Yacts are perfect for a lovely delightful evening. Enjoy with sunset with beer and Goan dancing or maybe trying your luck at the Casino Cruise.
3) Wednesday's Anjuna Flea Market: This popular market is full of beaded jewelry, handicrafts, paintings, lot of trendy clothes and wrap arounds. Do bargain before you buy any stuff.
4) Saturday Arpora Night Market:
This retro styled artisan market has stalls with cultural influences from all across the globe. You can shop here for home made knick knacks, Indian handicrafts and leather goods. Lip smacking food and live music just makes the Saturday light all the more lively and enjoyable.
5) Water sports:
Goa has numerous beaches and water sports is a must for adventure lovers. You can choose from parasailing, jet skiing, water skiing, kite surfing, wind surfing, catamaran sailing, and banana rides etc.
PRASAD stands for Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme in India. The focus is on development and beautification of the identified pilgrimage destinations.
Under the plan scheme ‘PRASAD’, the Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations, for various tourism projects subject to availability of funds, liquidation of pending utilization certificates and adherence to the scheme guidelines.
Under the PRASAD scheme thirteen sites have been identified for development, namely: Amritsar, Ajmer, Dwaraka, Mathura, Varanasi, Gaya, Puri, Amaravati, Kanchipuram, Vellankanni, Kedarnath, Kamakhya and Patna.
In pursuance to the Budget Announcements of 2014-15, the scheme was launched in January 2015. The projects sanctioned under the scheme are generally commissioned in 18 to 36 months.
Swadesh Darshan Scheme was introduced by the Cabinet ministry and Ministry of tourism in India to develop theme based tourism in India. With the help of this scheme, the tourists and visitors would get an opportunity to visit the specific tourist circuit in a single tour. There are 13 tourist circuits that are proposed and started under the scheme. Under these 13 circuits, there are many cities and sites added for the visitors to get down there and enjoy their holiday. When we say a tourist circuit, it means that a bunch of connected places can be visited at one go! An example of this is the famous Golden triangle which covers majorly three places namely Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. So under a specific tourists' circuit, there will be few renowned places that can be covered by a tourist in a single tour.
The 13 circuits are named as: 1) Buddhist Circuit 2) Coastal Circuit 3) Krishna Circuit 4) Ramayana Circuit 5) Desert Circuit 6) Spiritual Circuit 7) North East Circuit 8) Himalyan Circuit 9) Heritage Circuit 10) Tribal Circuit 11) Rural Circuit 12) Eco Circuit 13) Wildlife Circuit
To beat the scorching sun of North India, families and couples are heading to cooler gateways to beat the heat. If you are planning a road trip this summer to Shimla, you can break it down to these four places and head to your final destination. The journey starts with Delhi and NCR regions: 1) Murthal ke Paranthe Early morning drives are best to escape the heat and cover a good distance. It also means you got to fuel your body with nice breakfast. Murthal is an ideal breakfast place with lot of dhabas famous being Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba, Gulshan Dhaba etc. Just head onto any one of these and have Aloo ke Paranthe, Lassi and anything you feel like.
2) Chandigarh The next on this route would be Chandigarh. The highway is just fantastic and you would reach in straight 3 hours barring any traffic! You could stay in Chandigarh overnight and drive to Shimla the next day or can reach Kasauli, stay and drive to Shimla the next day. Either ways, you can take your road ahead. In Chandigarh, you could visit Rock garden, Rose garden, Sukhna lake and enjoy mouth watering chaats there!
3) Halt at Parwanoo for Lunch:
The famous Timber trail resort Parwanoo is a must visit place for visitors. It is generally packed during breakfast and lunches for visitors going forward to Kasauli and Shimla.
4) Shimla
Shimla is approximately 80 Kms from Timber trail. Relax and head to scenic Shimla by evening.You could stay at Kasauli and drive to Shimla the other day or reach Shimla after halting at these spots.
Well! Well the famous trip of Mumbai to Goa has found a new way to travel! Its a TRAIN journey from Mumbai CST to Karmali, Goa. The icing on the cake is a journey by a semi-high speed full AC train fleet which reaches the destination in approximately 8 hours and 30 mins. Some major highlights of this speedy train are:
Celebrity chef menu, tea and coffee vending machines, WiFi.
Bio-vacuum toilets, water level indicators, tap sensors and hand dryers.
CCTV cameras, fire & smoke detection and suppression system.
Energy-efficient LED lights and digital destination display boards.
Currently, the train is running on Monsoon schedule and that is why it will run only 3 days a week until October. After October it will again move back to normal schedule when it will run on 5 days.
So guys, what are we waiting for!! Get your tickets booked and chalo chalein GOAAAA!!!
Staying at a good hotel or a resort can make or break your vacation. We realized this on our trip to Alleppey, Kerala. Though Kerala in itself a destination which has picturesque views, serene and sublime backwaters, dense flora and coconut trees all through your way. But what makes the trip all the more memorable is a stay at a backwater resort which makes you feel and visualize everything about the God's own country, We chose Punnamada Beach Resort which was an absolute bliss. The resort offered an insight into everything that Kerala is famous for:
Backwater boating: The serene backwaters of the lake spread far and wide at the edge of the resort giving it a real feel, You can sit there for hours and hours undisturbed watching the views and the boats and cruise that come by.
Kerala architecture: You can witness the traditional Kerala architecture with wooden furnishing and interesting door locks. The rooms are cozy and grand in their own style.
Activities at the hotel: A glimpse of everything Kerala has to offer to a wanderlust travel. The hotel had various activities planned to keep the guests engaged right from Coir making demonstration, hi tea followed by backwater boat ride to Bharatnatyam show. One cannot be bored during their stay at the resort.
Cycling, swimming and indoor games: Cycling in the resort made the morning all the more pleasant, Other activities you could indulge were swimming and indoor games for the family.
Sea Food: The resort had various options for the non vegetarians to satiate their taste buds.
In all it was a wonderful and fulfilling stay at the resort. There are many other backwater resorts in the area which are worth giving a try. Some of the popular ones being Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort, Lake Palace Resorts, The Kayaloram Lake Resort etc.
If you love being close to nature then experience the Indian wildlife which is blessed with richness of all sorts of flora and fauna. They are worth visiting during spring when the weather is favorable, wildlife and vegetation both at their blooming stages and the sun is just right.
There are around 103 (as of July 2015) national wildlife parks and around 537 wildlife sanctuaries. Exploring the wildlife will certainly give you the real picture of nature’s aura and species that have survived the test of time. Let us review India the wilder way:
1) Western India Wildlife:
Discovering the wildlife of Western India is an enriching experience. From Asiatic Lions, Blackbuck to Desert Cats, one can explore different species that represents the Indian wildlife. Places for a must visit are: Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa, Gir National Park in Gujarat and others.
2) Southern Wildlife: The long stretched Western Ghats is blessed with its rich biodiversity that attracts tourists in large numbers. Visit Bandipur National Park in Karnataka, Silent Valley National Park in Kerala, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary in the Western Ghats is must to explore and get enchanted by the beauty of wildlife.
3) Central India Wildlife: There are over 15 national parks and 35 wildlife sanctuaries in the central part of India that has taken responsibility to preserve the endangered species. Explore places like Kanha National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Narsinghgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, also called the 'Paradise of Peacock' and make your trip memorable.
4) Eastern India Wildlife:
Eastern India is well known for its vegetation and dense forests. You can explore north east along with these popular national parks and sanctuaries such as Sunderbans National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park. Some endangered wildlife species of the world are found here like the One-horned Rhinoceros, Wild Buffalos, Hispid Hare and Pigmy Hog.
5) Northern India Wildlife:
There is a long list of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Northern India which attracts tourists and wildlife and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Some popular ones to visit being Keoladeo National Park, Chail Wildlife sanctuary, Corbett National Park and Dudhwa National Park.
Varanasi better known by Benaras and Kashi is one of the holy places to visit in India. Known for its ghats and Gharana, this place is a sought after location for both pilgrims and foreigners to catch a glimpse of the sacred city.
What to do? Where to go in Varanasi?
River Ganga and its Ghats:
Holy Ganga is an indispensable part of the Varanasi city. All the ghats are built along the bank of river Ganga. It is here that the Ganga aarti, cremation and holy bath are taken by people.
The main Ghat of the city is Dasaswamedh Ghat. It is one of the most vibrant and colorful ghats in the city and is located close to Vishwanath Temple. Ganga artis are held on every Tuesdays in front of idol of Ganga Maata and Ganga river.
Other popular ghats include Manikarnika Ghat, Harischandra Ghat, Assi Ghat and Shivala Ghat. Take a stroll along these ghats. There is not only lots to see, but also lots to learn about each Ghat along the Ganges river.
Temple tour:
Varanasi has umpteen number of temples which vows the tourists and pilgrims. The most famous being Kashi Vishwanath, Lord Shiva Temple, Durga Temple or Monkey Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir and New Kashi Vishwnath Temple.
Shopping and great food:
You can go around the city to explore the best of both local goods and imported souvenirs. Benaras is famous for its Benarasi silk sarees and also for its sweets and Kachauri. This is a great destination if you have a sweet tooth.Try out the famous Benarasi paan. This is not to be missed at any cost!
Sarnath:
Sarnath is located 13 kms from Varanasi city and one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage center in India. Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath and the city is part of buddhist pilgrimage tours.
Nashik is a city with diverse culture. From mythology to oenology, this place attracts all sorts of tourists from around the country. We take you roughly through what you need to cover in Nashik with your friends and family. 1) Wineries:
Nashik is very well known for its wineries and is considered the wine capital of India. There are lot many vineyards here where you learn the whole process of wine making plus a great stay if you want to enjoy the whole ambiance. 2) Temples: Nashik has a mythological history and attracts a lot of pilgrims and saints every year. There are more than 100 temples and many of them are located near Godavari river. There is Sita Gumpha, a claustrophobic cave where Sita is said to have hid from Ravan. Then, there is Trimbakeshwar temple which is one of the twelve jyotirlingas in India. Each Jyotirlinga is considered to be a different manifestation of Shiva. Other famous temples include Kalaram temple, Kapileshwara temple, Saptashrungi Temple, Muktidham temple to name a few.
3) Caves: The Pandavleni Caves are located around 10 kilometers southwest of Nashik, just off the Mumbai-Nashik Highway. The caves represent the Hinayana buddhist beliefs. There are 24 caves in total, out of which three are major centres of attraction.
4) Falls:
The Dudhsagar falls offer a huge attraction by tourists during monsoons. You can explore the varied flora and fauna around the waterfall and enjoy the spectacular view. Other falls in and around Nashik are Someshwar Water Fall and Vihigaon Waterfall.
Wine tourism in India is fast taking pace in India with people developing a taste for fine wine. There are a lot many wineries in India who provide tours of their vineyards and cellars, picturesque vineyard views, tasting rooms, customized wine dinners and stay to quench your thirst for wine. Here's a list of the top five wine destinations you ought to take for the love of wine!
1) Sula Vineyards
Takeaways: Try attending the immensely popular SulaFest that is held in early February each year. Sula Vineyards has also got its vineyard resort, called Beyond which is a must visit place to enjoy the ambiance and feel of the vineyards. Location: On the outskirts of Nashik, off Gangapur-Savargaon Road, 20 minutes from Nashik. 180 km northeast of Mumbai. Address: Gat 36/2, Govardhan Village, Off Gangapur-Savargaon Road, Nashik, Maharashtra What to drink: Dindori Reserve Shiraz, Sula Sauvignon Blanc, Sula Blush Zinfandel, Sula Brut and Late Harvest Chenin Blanc.
2) Fratelli Akluj
Takeaways:It hasvarious packages like day visits, weekend getaways, Rejuvenation and Rent-a-vineyard packages. It is recommended that you stay at least one night in the winery's modern accommodations.
Location: Located in Akunj, 175 km south of Pune. Approximately 300 kilometers (6 hours) from Mumbai. Address: Gat No. 131, Zanjewadi Taluka: Malshiras, Distt Solapur - 413 107 Maharashtra (India) What to drink: Vero Sauvignon Blanc & Vero Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz Rose; Fratelli Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc-Shiraz; Chardonnay; Sangiovese Bianco, Sangiovese; Gran Cuvee Brut, Vitae Chardonnay, Vitae Tre
3) Grover Zampa Vineyards, Nandi Hills Takeaways: You can see some of the most beautiful species of birds, including Asian Paradise Flycatchers, Bulbuls, Blue Capped Rock Thrush, Tawny Eagles, and Puff-Throated Babblers, among the others during your visit to winery. The guided tour includes lunch.
Location: Nandi Hills, around 50 kilometers north of Bangalore in Karnataka.
Break the monotony this summer and head to the North Eastern part of India where the picturesque beauty will enchant you! Yes, we are talking abut the second most smallest state of India, Sikkim. With endless number of things to do and places to explore for every traveler, you will surely have innumerable treasures and sights to behold. Sikkim is sure to leave a permanent mark on your soul! Here's our favorite four:
1) Gangtok
Gangtok is the hub of Sikkim’s tourist activity and the most prominent of all places in Sikkim.
The place is a visual wonder – with breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga surrounded by scenic landscapes and geographical terrain making it an ideal holiday hot-spot – with perfect climate, the cleanest of surroundings, friendly people and innumerable things to do and places to explore!
2)YUKSOM
The town of Yuksom is also known as the “gateway to the Kanchenjunga”. Not just that, the place also houses significant Buddhist centres symbolic as the “third eye of Sikkim”. One can also take up treks along the Zongri Pass or Goche La Passes and indulge in trekking.
3) Pelling The scenic town of Pelling is bestowed with several waterfalls, breath-taking views, natural beauty and adventure options like rafting, kayaking, trekking, mountain biking etc. It has innumerable tourist attractions like Buddhist pilgrimage centres, natural havens of the Darup village, Kaluk, the Sewaro Rock Garden etc. and breathtaking sights like the Singshore Bridge, the Rimbi and Kanchenjunga waterfalls to name a few.
4) Trip to Gurudongmar Lake Gurudongmar Lake is said to be one of the highest fresh water lakes in the world. While one plans their trip to the strikingly beautiful Gurudongmar Lake, you can stop over at places like Lachen and Thangu trailing through the lush greens and beautiful landscapes surrounded by snow-capped peaks in the background.
Ooty, also known as the queen of hill stations is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. We decided to opt for this place as it had plenty of places to visit and the weather is fairly nice as compared to Bengaluru. The route to Ooty has Mysuru and Bandipur Tiger Reserve on its way so you could see certain spots on the way! Though the number of places mentioned in the Ooty's day trip are many but honestly I came down to just five of them worth visiting based on popularity and view. So, here's a list: 1) Doddabetta Peak It is the highest peak of Tamil Nadu and hoards a great number of tourists round the year.
2) Pykara Lake and Water Falls
This place is a true treat to eyes. The fall, the breeze, the view everything is just mesmerizing.
3) Ooty Lake
Lake, games for kids and adults, some shopping, haunted show, mirror maze, 7D show and small toy train type ride, this place is a must for everyone.
4) Benchmark Tea Factory
Learn the making of packaged tea here and try out the famous Nilgiri tea also! This place also has some good shopping for all products famous in Ooty such as Tea, homemade chocolates, eucalyptus oils and joint pain oils, ayurvedic creams and medicines, woolens etc.
5) Pine Forest
6) Botanical Garden It is a lush green garden with lots of visitors at all times. People come here to relax and enjoy.
Avalanche Lake is also a place worth going but the lake is dry during summers. Best time to visit the lake is in monsoons. You can let us know if you liked any other place in Ooty in the comments below.
