Gearing Up For Weekend Escapades

‘Vacation’ the word that can paint a rosy picture instantly; is however not a recurrent boon one can enjoy anytime.  Especially when long leaves can foul play with your job; it is advisable to avoid the risk. Don’t make that long face! As the solution lies in your calendar! Puzzled?  Well, it is nothing but your short and sweet weekend escapades.  Here are the best names around the metros of India.

•    From Delhi

Agra – The Delhi-Agra expressway makes the to-and-fro Delhi- Agra voyage really hassle-free. Situated at a distance of 197Kms, the Taj city has become the most preferred weekend spot for the Delhites.  It is beholding one of the most spectacular wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. This is why every year this city witnesses tourists sprawling in, from all across the globe.
Other than Taj, there are numerous other attractions in Agra, such as Itmad ud Daula Tomb, Mehtab Bagh and Agra Fort and so forth.

Image Courtesy : www.hoteljyotiagra.com

Bharatpur – Located 186Kms away from Delhi. It is well-known for sanctuary - the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, UNESCO certified World Heritage Site.  Every year rare migratory birds visit Bharatpur in winters. The city also houses several ancient relics that date back to the early 15th century.

•    From Kolkata

Shanti Niketan (abode of Peace) - Away from madding crowd, it is an ideal weekend getaway for the Kolkatians. Nestled in 212Kms by road, it is the home of Nobel Laureate and National poet of India Rabindranath Tagore. This University town is not only rich in culture but also in scenic beauty.  One can get a glimpse of village life; enjoy various festivals including Poush Mela, Basanta Utsav, Nandan Mela etcetera. You can also bring home local handicrafts hawked at Sonajhuri Haat.

Image courtesy : www.radiancetour.com

Sundarban- Sited at a distance of 114kms, it is a perfect spot for wildlife as well as photography lovers. This is the hub of Sundari trees, thus the place named accordingly. This dense national park covers an area approx. 38,500sqft. Beside 30,000 royal Bengal tigers, it accumulates deer, wild boars, fowls and reptiles.

•    From Mumbai

Shillim – Sited on the Sahyadri mountain range, Shillim is at 90kms away from Mumbai. It is located in The Mavaal region. The region holds significant historic importance. It offers a placid beauty sans modernization. The prime attraction of Shillim is the spectacular Lake Pawna which facilitates the boating option. Trekkers will get abundant chances of trekking at Tikona hill. The Ariel view of the place can be received through paragliding.

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Gorai and Manori beaches-These two beaches are the ideal weekend escape for those who are just looking forward to have a relaxing session without participating into any kind of activities. Gorai beach is 44Kms away whereas Manori beach is at 48Kms away from Mumbai.

•    From Chennai

Pondichery- Located 244 kms away from Chennai, it is known as the “Quintessence of France” as it was ruled by French people for 281 years. The city still holds the mark from past in its magnificent colonial mansions, serene boulevards, name of the streets and peaceful promenades. Auroville is a place which houses 50,000 people throughout the globe. At the center of the city lies sacred Matrimandir, a lake and the amphitheater with Urn of Human Unity containing the soils of 121 countries and 23 Indian states. One should not miss the chance of treating his taste buds with lip-smacking French food served in the local eatery.

Image courtesy : pondicherryinfo.in

Dakhinashetra- Developed and maintained by Madras Craft Foundation, it is small heritage village positioned on the beautiful Mahabalipuram Beach. Situated at 21Kms away from Chennai, this village represents glaring example of traditional South Indian art, craft as well as architecture. One must try hands at crafting a terracotta doll.

We highly recommend before moving ahead:

•    Make a research of near about spots.
•     Plan your travel idea at least before four to five days.
•     Prepare a “things to do” list especially of pending tasks before and after the holidays. This will help, pre planning in a systematic way and also to get back on track quicker, post-vacation.
•    Get financially prepared. Make a rough estimate of the trip expenses. Though now we have the privilege of carrying cards instead of cash, but it is always advisable to carry liquid cash with you.
•    Book the place to stay, in advance
Without niggling for a near impossible extended leaves; plan weekends out and refresh your, mind, soul and body. We wish you happy weekends!

Go Fishing in India

Deadlines at work, hectic work schedules and tight commitments; can make anyone distressed. Much awaited thing is a break, as it is always said “de-stress before you get distressed.”
The hustle and bustle of busy lifestyle never grants a long escape. With periodic nightmares of re-joining work, one can only think of few easy doorways to unwind oneself. As a matter of fact, fishing, the game of patience can be one of the most appealing activities of unwinding yourself by staying very close to nature. 
With a vast coastline of near bout 3000 Kms as well as 55,000 Km of water bodies including lakes, streams, rivers, tributaries and reservoirs, bodies; India hosts exhilarating fishing adventures  includes trawling, sport fishing and angling.

Permits

Fishing licenses are compulsory to guarantee safety of ecosystem. Therefore, before heading to any fishing safari, get endorsed for a legalized fishing. Contact the state tourism and fisheries department of the state, which one intends to visit.

Image Courtesy:  lakesideindia.wordpress.com

 N.B-Fishing permits are not issued during the breeding season. 

Season for Fishing

 Since the diverse land of India has climatic differences from region to region, thereby fishing can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Honing the Hobby

Waiting for a nibble is an art of tremendous patience. The keys to successful fishing expedition are time and patience to keep quiet and still for hours. The tough challenge one has to face while pulling in a big prized-catch can be one way of de-stressing all that accumulated pressure  one faces in his daily hurly-burly.One more exciting part of fishing is the eating your hard earned catch.

Fishing is a game of angling. Place your line close to a swift areas there have more oxygen for a better catch. One must carry Fishing Rods, Lines, Hooks, Reel, Flies, Spoons, Spinners and Bait.

Things to wear

Wear light cotton clothes or waterproof protective clothing, light sandals or water proof rubber calf length shoes.  Take tube of sunscreen, hat and sunglass for sun protection.

To fully enjoy, tag along with a number of friends or family and share the thrill, gatherings around bonfires, overnight stay by camping in the wilds or forest lodges can be good options. Of late the state governments have started all these amenities to the tourists to encourage fishing safari.

Image courtsey: www.sportquestholidays.com

Places and time:

Trawling in Himachal Pradesh - The Beas River in the Kullu-Manali region, Larji Valley, is popular for Brown Trout. Other than these Sutlej, Ravi,Tirthan, Sainj, Uhl, Baspa, Pabar, Lambadug, Giri, Rana, NugalGai, Baner, Bata, are the mean streams for angling in Himachal Pradesh where fishes like Mahseer, Barilus sp, Glyptothoraxsp, Nemacheilusspp, Schizothoracids Crossocheilus sp. are abundantly available. October to November and from April to June, are the recommended time for visit. Avoid fishing during the chilled seasons of winters.

Angling in Uttar Pradesh– Dodital fresh water lake, is ideal for trout fishing all through the year. One can choose to stay in the forest rest-house at Dodital and Bartok. Ramganga and the Sharda rivers in the range of Jim Corbett National Park, are the ideal water bodies for Mahseer hunt. Rishikesh can also be considered.

Catching fish in South India - April to September, is the ideal time for trout-fishing in southern India.  For stay, go camping in forests bungalows. Mysore is a great place to catch Mahseer. One can stay at Cauvery Fishing Lodge. In Kerala, streams around the hill stations of Munnar are best for fishing during the month of April to September.

Maharashtra: The Monsoon Beauty

If you are among those who don’t mind getting drenched in the natural shower, hop in the muddy paddles, trail the thunder, gaze at the rainbow; then of course the best time to keep a date with nature is the monsoons

With the spectacular beaches, hail-washed Western Ghats, magnificent waterfall, mysterious mist, Maharashtra certainly converts into the “heaven on earth” with the approach of monsoon, which worth a visit.

Lonavala and Khandala undoubtedly are the places in you tour planner. These two hilly beauties are located between Mumbai and Pune. When it rains the barren hills around Lonavala turn out to be lush green carpets and numerous rain fed springs cascade freely all over. One never would want to leave the overwhelming Khandala Ghats which can wow anyone with its splendor of clouds passing by and the gushing waterfalls.

Image Courtesy:ecabs.in

For trekking aficionados, Duke’s Nose, Rajmachi Trek are prevalent routes and zone beyond Tungarli offers an amusing lakeside panoramic view.

Come monsoon and Malshej Ghat, just 160 km from Mumbai, acquires almost a mystical look. Not to forget the hilltop gets extremely windy during this season. Famous for its dam, waterfalls and with completely uninhabited area around it, Bhandardara is only 80 km away from Nashik. One has to navigate the vineyards, windmills and lakes to reach here.  Saputara on Maharashtra-Gujarat border is a perennial and tranquil hill station. Especially during monsoon, the beholder just gets carried away to a different dimension with the picturesque beauty of this hilly land. At 120Kms away from Melghat Tiger Reserve, Chikhaldhara is worth a visit during cloud burst. Initially built as summer resort by the British and hovering at a height of about 2,516 ft. above sea level, the eco-friendly Matheran is a real treat for eyes. It is well-known for its 33 viewpoints like Panorama, Sunrise, Heart, Echo, Luisa, Monkey, Malang, Porcupine, Lords, Artist, Alexander, Chowk, Rambaugh Point etc. Facilitating expedition at Honeymoon Hill or One Tree Hill or a simple ride in the toy train like that of Darjeeling, Matheran is a bliss! A train tour in Konkan region, is believed to be one of the stunning experiences.

Image Courtesy:exploringtourism.com

Dudhsagar, literally meant the “Sea of Milk” is a 10m long and milky white Waterfall at Someshwar. During monsoon the falls is an awe-inspiring sight for the sightseers. In addition, one can make a visit to Dhobi and Chinaman's Waterfall, Venna Lake as well.

Have your rain gears ready and chalk out trip during monsoon.

Explore the Maharashtrian marvels of wet weathers!

Shopping and Dining in Ubud: Bali’s Paradise!

The fun part of any tour remains incomplete without tasting the local food and getting home the souvenirs! Don’t you agree?

Located in tropical Bali, Ubud; is one of the most fascinating travel destinations of recent times. As the cultural hub of the island, it grants many culinary and shopping treats to the tourists.

Image Courtesy :ihavenotbeenthere.com

Let us explore the myriad array of dinning and bargain hunt.

In reality, the fine dining at Ubud is designed to satisfy varied taste buds. Who will not go gaga over a delectable taste and tempting aroma?  And things will turn more exciting if one gets the chance to explore through the bargain-basements of the shopping hubs.

Café Wayan and Bakery, situated at a distance of 3Kms from Monkey Forest, serves the most comprehensive set of choices of Balinese specialties. If you can make it on a weekend, do not miss the luxurious traditional Balinese buffet served on Sunday evenings.

Similarly, Dirty Duck Restaurant locally known as Bebek Bengil is another name.  Placed in the heart of Ubud, this eatery is popular for specific innovative à la carte recipes including snails, fish and chips, finger foods and obviously the famous crispy duck steamed with a combination of Balinese spices and then quickly deep-fried at a high heat for a very crunchy result and amazingly delicious taste.

Image Courtesy :baliholi.blogspot.com

IbuRai Bar & Restaurant is another must visit eating place.  Since 1960, this outlet is widely known for selling delicious, reasonably priced and healthy food.

Image Courtesy :limewave.com

Are you a shopaholic? If the answer is yes, then Ubud is the place for you. Here the shopping experience is no less than being on the seventh earth. The choices are endless starting from jewelries to furniture. You name it, in all probability you’ll get it.

 There are few best handicraft centers which highlights both traditional as well as chronological side of Bali. Names like Sukwati and Ubud are the two most talked markets related to craft and cloth shopping. Choose the best of Indonesian dresses, shirts, scarf, cushions, scarf, bags and batiks from Sukwati market. On the contrary rattan stuff - bags, baskets, placemats and tissue box holders made of coconut husk, sarongs, pareos, masks, bags, salt and pepper shakers are the best picks at Ubud market. Celuk village is the stop for bagging a few metal artifacts. Here the shopper is blessed with copious choices for gold and silver ornaments. Ubud is also packed with malls and flea markets. The area appears like a paradise for fashionistas where one can get hold of replicas of famous designer wears. Jalan Raya tops the list because of its moving collection. If wood crafts is what you are looking for then it certainly ends in Mas village. Batubulan presents you with its stone carved pieces, ideal as keepsakes. Nusa Dua on the outskirts of Ubud is another hub for handicrafts.

N.B. - Credit cards are accepted everywhere except family owned souvenir and gifts shops.

Rajasthan; the Royal Land of Golden Sand

Rajasthan is the mystic and regal land of golden sand, Kings and Rajputs, rhyming folk songs and dances, multi-colored clothing, lip-smacking cuisines and unparalleled handicrafts. The state has always something unique to offer to its visitors.

Famous Lands:

Jaipur

Jaipur, famously known as “Pink City” is the capital of Rajasthan.  Must-visit places are, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, City Palace, Jal Mahal, Birla Temple, Sisodia Rani Garden, forts including Jaigarh, Nahagarh and Amber forts. While the splendid style of Hawa Mahal will intrigue you, the whopping canon at Jaigarh Fort will fascinate you. Located amidst the water the Jal Mahal has its own enthralling history.

Image Courtesy: www.photoburst.net

Jodhpur

Jodhpur was founded as the capital of Marwar state by Rao Jodha-chief in the year 1459. Located at the edge of the Thar Desert, it reverberates with stories of antiquity in the hollowness of the desert. The main attraction is gigantic Mehrangarh Fort, sited on the hilltop. Heading towards to Clock Tower you will spot the 30 years old Omelet Shops near the inner arch, serving over 20-30 varieties. However, beware of the duplicators.

Image Courtesy:www.livemint.com

Udaipur

In the year 1568 Maharana Udai Singh, founded the lake city of Udaipur. It is often referred to as the 'Venice of the East'. Interspersed with extravagant forts and palaces, splendid temples, hilltop fortresses, and romantic gardens this 'City of Dreams' is a favourite with both Indian and foreign tourists. A fantasy island palace shimmering on mirror-calm Lake Pichola, the lake Palace is one of the most romantic hotels in the world.

Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer known as “The Yellow or Golden City” “is located in the heart of the desert. Towering majestically above the city, Jaisalmer Fort made in sand stone is also known as the living museum as it contains numerous havelis which belonged to merchants in the 19th century.

Image Courtesy:www.trekearth.com

Pushkar
Pushkar, the only shrine of Lord Brahma, is sited close to Ajmer. Pushkar’s placid lake is considered a very sacred spot for Hindus. Camel Fair which takes place for 10 days every November, is another attraction.

Image Courtesy: www.cultureaangan.com

Mount Abu

Mount Abu is oasis in the heart of harsh Thar Desert which covers an area of 1219 meters. Located at the southern angle of the Aravali range, the hill ecstasy owes a pleasant climate.



Activities

•    Adventurous desert safari to Jaisalmer or Jodhpur through titillating sand dunes on a jeep or the back of a camel is a life time experience.

•    Must try the upward royal ride towards higher altitude to witness the beauty of Amber Fort on a bejeweled elephant.

•    What could be more fascinating than spending a night under the open sky in the mighty Thar? Enjoy the comfortable camping organized by local tour operators.  As the sun goes down, the rhythmic shines of folk music and dances performed by the locals brighten up with the evening.

•    Enjoy a voyage on hot-air balloon through a sand terrestrial observing the historic forts and palaces.
•    Adventure freaks should not miss Jodhpur Flying Fox, an exclusive chance enjoy a Zip line tour with Mehrangarh Fort as the backdrop. The circuit has 6 zip lines that need approx. 1.5 hours to complete. Prior-booking is recommended.

•    Ranthambore Jungle Safari the vast National Park as well as a Tiger Reserve has some of the rare variety of animals and bird. Ride one of those Canters or open top vehicles, if lucky enough might you spot a tiger.

Image Courtesy:rajasthantourismbuzz.wordpress.com -

 What to bag, back home?

•    Famous miniature paintings on clothes and furniture, parochially known as Phad and Pichhwai from Jaipur, Jodhpur, Nathdwara and Kishangarh.

•    Regional specialty Kundan style jewelry on Meenakari from Jaipur’s Johori bazaar

•    Bandhni, in various patterns like Lahariya, Mothda and Ekdali from all major markets at Jaipur, Nai sarak Market, Jodhpur, Bada Bazaar, Udaipur, and Gumanpura, Kota.

•    Batik and Embroidery work from Jaisalmer.

•    Kagzi Potter from Alwar

•    Painted Pottery and Terracotta products from Bikaner

•    Traditional carving in little wooden boxes from Jaisalmer.

•    Traditional woolen rugs or “Namdas” from Tonk

Head to Rajasthan. The place where history, myth, chivalry and romance make an exciting fusion with the rugged natural beauty!

An insight on Group departures

Travelling is a fun activity for all. Most people round the globe like to spend their holidays at some foreign destination. Exploring an unknown land always comes with loads of risks and dangers’, thus travelling in a group is invariably preferable.  Some of us travel coz we want to explore the world, while some are born travelers- we want to explore the world from every corner and acknowledge the great art of God.

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Though solo traveling is fun, but traveling the world accompanied with friends has many interesting bits attached to it. You can play games, gossip around, chit-chat, do shopping etc. when traveling with a group and spare your jaunting hours very smoothly. Another best feature of traveling in a group is that you can talk, exchange information, discuss matters and get help when needed. These days, group locomotion is the most common type of traveling, which frequent travelers choose when it comes to holidays. Undergoing the impressive artifacts of the world with people from different cultures, cities, traditions, who have common taste as yours, gives you an unlike feeling which you will cherish forever. And, if you are those kinds of people who love making new friends, than planning out a trip with unknown people is a big YES!!

Group traveling is much safer than solo traveling, be it with unknown people, friends or family, it helps you stay safe in unexpected situations. If your are planning out a trip in your coming vacations and thinking of with whom you should contrive it out, then ask your friends out, make a group and leave for the most memorable journey of your life time.

Image Courtsey : www.machetetours.com

Some major benefits of a group travel are-

1.    It never makes you feel dull and boring.
2.    You get to talk, share, increase your knowledge and become friends.
3.    Group travelling helps you save loads of money.
4.    Exploring places become easier and convenient.
5.    In case of medical emergency, having people around is a great help.
6.    If there is someone in your group who has already been to the place you are travelling, then it is very beneficial for all of you, as you can enjoy their experiences, travel stories and you might not have to hire a guide as well.

Hush…The Seven Sisters Are Calling!

The north-eastern region of India is the deific abode of the stunning seven sisters i.e. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. As it is amongst the most secluded corners of the country, the beauty still remains unspoiled and charismatic sans the touch of modernization. The only willowy corridor, to enter this territory is Siliguri (approximately around 30Kms wide).

Beside Assam and Tripura, the region has a predominantly tribal population where you can get to see a perfect blend of multiple cultures, religions and languages. For instance, Tibeto-Burman, Mongolian and Austro-Asiatic cultures and beliefs including Christianity and Hinduism are a good mix. Mother Nature provides all the means of support to this Utopian population. No doubt, your trip will remain incomplete, if you miss the chance to have a glimpse of these distinct kinfolks.

Image Courtesy: www.thrillophilia.com

The gorgeous fauna world of the North-East is another attraction for the visitors. The sub-tropical climate in consort with copious rains, are the primary contributors of its thriving wildernesses. The land has myriad of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries for the wildlife lovers. The rainforests of this province have the best of ecological diversity, accumulating an array of miscellaneous mammals including One Horned Rhinoceros, Elephants, Tigers, Leopards and many more. Besides mammals various reptiles and numerous species of birds like Indian Horn-Bill, Stork and Adjutants can also be found here. If lucky enough, you might get a chance to discover some new species of creature, or a plant or creepy-crawly, and naming them as per your choice! Sounding interesting, isn’t it?

The overwhelming valleys of the vast Brahmaputra River not only make the beholder spellbound at first glance, but also drives him to nostalgic junctions. The whole sail on the mighty water course allows the traveler to unwind all the hustle and bustles of life by settling an invisible bond between man and nature.

Image Courtsey :www.ankurkolkata.com

The adventure aficionados do not fret. This North-Eastern region definitely has something to offer you as well. The fast speed of running water of this river upstream gives a chance to the water sports lovers to explore the natural path of rivers, through the jungles and rocky territories of Himalayas. Experience the thrill to be in the raft, flowing fast through the curves and twist of Brahmaputra.
Not to forget, to relish the sips of the best teas of the world at the Tea-Gardens of Assam. What could be more relaxing than sitting with a refreshing cup of tea and gazing at the surrounding serenity?

The Seven Sisters offer a vivid range of souvenir to the tourists, extending from different home décor fixture to an exclusive piece of dress material. Mat-making and basketry are among the most ancient of crafts of this province. Kouna craft or products made from water reed grass from Manipur, are the must-buys. Invest in these light-weight; reasonably priced and eco-friendly products. Manipuri woollen shawls are also a chic statement. The fully knitted cane sofa sets, Naga warrior spears as wall decorations and shawls are the keepsakes from Nagaland.  Tripura is popular for cane, bamboo and wood crafts including bamboo baskets, screens, rolling mats etc.  Assam offers a plethora of ‘Muga’ and silk sarees, woven ‘Modas’ or garden furniture, masks or ‘Mukhas’, metal crafts, toys, mats and a bamboo and cane decorative items, the wooden one-horned rhino and many more. Meghalaya, known as the `Scotland of the East', is popular for basketry waving from bamboo, and many cane crafted fixtures. The pen stand or luta as well as the light green decorated tray sets and Tiffin Boxes made from bamboo, dry flowers are impressive. Do not miss to bag the nice designer cloth-woven ethnic bags and eye-catching caps from Mizoram. Monpa cloth bag, traditional weapons/ knives, bamboo bangles and ear ornament, bead jewelry, Sherdukpen shawls, Apatani jackets and scarves, Adi skirts, jackets and bags, Mishmi shawls etc. are the best bargains from Arunachal Pradesh.

Image Courtesy: www.harekrsna.com

Enchanting beauties, rapids and rivers, tribal people, excellent flora and fauna and brilliant collection of keepsakes; a call from “The Seven Sisters,” is something worth attending!