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Category: Travel

Caravan Buying tips for first time buyers
Caravan is a huge investment. It is something that would act as your temporary home. So, you need to be as picky in choosing a caravan manufacturer as you would be while looking for a new home. Since the caravan is a long-term investment as well, you need to be cautious while choosing the right caravan manufacturer. But before that, you need to decide how you want your dream caravan to be like. There are various aspects to pre-plan:

Caravan
1. Budget: This is the top most priority. You need to decide how much you can spend on a caravan and then choose a caravan type accordingly.
1. Size: The number of people you plan to go caravanning with is the deciding factor of size. If it is a family caravan you need then it would be larger than the one you would buy if you want to go caravanning alone.
1. Weight: This is also another deciding factor for a caravan. The amount of weight your towing vehicle can tow is what mainly governs this factor. Also, if you are planning to buy a new towing vehicle, you may want to check which one fits your budget.
1. Floor Plan: If you are getting a custom designed caravan, you can ask the caravan manufacturers to design it just the way you like it. For that, you need to do your research and come up with a proper floor plan. You can explore all types of floor plan and the only limiting factors would be your budget and the caravan weight.
1. Materials and facilities: You have to decide upon all the basic things like the amount of seating area and the number of beds and the orientation, benches, upholstery, interior colours, etc.
1. Outdoor attachments: You will need many attachments for outdoor living like external BBQ, external kitchen, external shower, awnings and annexes.
1. Storage: As you would be travelling, you will need a lot of storage space. Decide how much internal storage and tunnel boot you would need and get storage boxes as well, in case you run out of space.
1. Lighting, Appliances and Gadgets: Interior and exterior lighting, energy efficiency and electricity supply for all appliances you may need like TV, radio, Wi-Fi, mobile chargers, etc. You have to get power systems as well.
1. Heating and cooling: You cannot travel comfortably if there are no heating and cooling facilities in the caravan. So, you need to get air conditioning for peaceful nights and refrigerators for getting keeping vegetables fresh and your beer chilled.
After you are done with all the above planning, the next step is to choose the right caravan manufacturer to help you design the caravan just the way you imagined it. Here is how you go about it:

Caravan
- The most important factor to consider is whether a particular caravan manufacturer can offer a wide range of caravan types.
- Ensure that the caravan manufacturer provides products which are up-to-date with the modern technologies and tools and incorporated with modern features.
- Get quotes from more than one caravan manufacturer to ensure you are not being overpriced.
- Ensure that the caravan manufacture has a good reputation for after sales services. A caravan is a huge investment and if you are not assured to get proper after sale services and repairs, then you should switch to a different caravan manufacturer.
- Never go for a caravan manufacturer who does not provide an excellent guarantee facilities. Only the manufacturers who are not confident about their product quality do not offer guarantee.
- Do not get lured by extremely low prices. No caravan manufacturer would sell a product at extremely low prices as manufacturing a caravan costa a lot of money and if the pricing is too low, it may be because there are defects or complications in the caravan that cannot be spotted by a common eye. So, the moment you feel the prices are too good to be true, steer away from that manufacturer.
All these points are more than enough to help you find the right caravan manufacturer. Also, keep in mind that it is not always true that the big-name manufactures are not always the best choice.

The upsides of going with a big-name caravan manufacturer are that you can be assured of quality and services and you get a better resale value. But the cons are that they are less flexible in terms of design.

So, weigh your pros and cons according to your needs and then go forward with your plans.
May 25, 2017
5 Destinations In India That Fits On A Shoestring Budget
India – The Land of Diversity, a country vast and diverse, a land of contrasts, be it the Himalayas or the Indian river plain, the mountainous terrains or the fertile plains, desert land or the lush green forests, land of several languages or large or very small industrial units. Travelling in India needn’t be all that expensive; there are plenty of places to make that budget trip without compromising on experience; whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, or a friend group interested in having affordable fun, many hidden gems in India that can explore on a budget.

Here are five affordable destinations where you can experience India’s beauty and culture- without spending a fortune.

Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala

Alleppey: Venice of the East If you haven’t already heard of this magical place, this quaint little town on the west coast of India in the state of Kerala sure is scenic! Renowned for its tranquil backwaters, houseboat cruises and magnificent verdant land, Alleppey is a place where you can unwind amidst nature. You don’t have to splurge on a fancy houseboat to experience the backwaters —there are also budget options, such as renting a smaller boat or riding a local ferry, from which you still get the same beautiful views for a fraction of the price.

Things to Do:
- Houseboat ride: A plush houseboat might be hard on the pocket, but one can opt for shorter, more affordable rides in regular Kerala-style boats.
- Alleppey Beach: A peaceful place to walk and watch the sunset.
- Vembanad Lake: Take a serene walk beside the lake or take a boat ride and cruise.
Budget Tips:

Opt for budget guesthouses or homestays; they will be easy on the wallet and provide an authentic Kerala experience.

Eat in local restaurants, where fresh seafood and Keralan specialities won’t break the bank.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is for those who want to travel to great places with spirituality and adventure and stay close to nature. Nestled on the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh is renowned for yoga retreats, white-water rafting and breathtaking sights of the Himalayas. Whether you seek peace or an adrenaline rush, Rishikesh has something to offer everyone, all on a minimal budget.

Things to Do:

Yoga and Meditation Rishikesh is the world’s yoga capital, and many ashrams offer cheap yoga classes or retreats.
- White-water Rafting: Depending on the time of year and who you book with, you can enjoy this adventure sport at a reasonable cost.
- Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula: These well-known suspension bridges offer cross-river views featuring the Ram River and the Laxman mountain.
Budget Tips:

There are many budget accommodations, including backpackers’ hostels and guesthouses, where you can stay for as little as ₹300-₹500 a night.

Street food is so cheap and delicious in Rishikesh, and you can try that local flavour without spending too much.

Top Places to Visit in Uttarakhand – Nature, Spirituality & Adventure Combined

Gokarna, Karnataka

Gokarna in Karnataka is a great option if you’re looking for a getaway from the crowded beaches of Goa but with the relaxed vibe of a coastal town. A relaxed beach town, Gokarna is famed for its unspoiled beauty and non-commercial aspect. This is an awesome place for budget travellers to relax and explore with its lovely beaches, temples and trekking trails!

Things to Do:

Hop around Beaches: Gokarna has many untouched beaches like Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Half-moon Beach, etc, where you can enjoy the sun and sand for a day.
- Trekking: You’re looking for a stunning experience in the area and are joining on easy treks leading to hidden beaches and other scenic points.
- Mirjan Fort: Discover the off-beat historic Mirjan Fort near Gokarna for calm and serene surroundings.
Budget Tips:

Economical guesthouses, homestays and beach-side shacks are the best options, and one can find value-for-money rooms for as little as ₹500 a night.

Savour fresh fish and simple dishes in small, inexpensive (but wow, they’re tasty) local restaurants.

Dharamsala and McLeodganj- Himachal Pradesh

Dharamsala and McLeodganj are notable to be home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. The Himalayas surround these hill stations of Himachal Pradesh and offer a much-needed break to everyone who wants to break free from the cacophony of life in a city. With sweeping views of the mountains, a rich Tibetan culture, and plenty of trekking options, yes and yes to both Dharamsala and McLeodganj for those watching the pennies.

Things to Do:

Dali Lama Temple Complex: Explore the history and culture of Tibetan Buddhism at this timeless temple in McLeodganj.
- Trekking: Offering breathtaking views, Triund Trek is one of many in and around Dharamsala, offering treks that suit all experience levels.
- Tibetan Markets: Visit the local markets for Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, and exclusive souvenirs at cheap prices.
Budget Tips:

Mcleodganj has plenty of budget guesthouses, hostels and homestays that are cheap, with prices starting at A guesthouse or hostel for about ₹300-₹500 per night.

Eating local Tibetan cuisine is cheap, easy, and delicious — check out momos, thukpa, and Tibetan bread!

Sikkim

Sikkim, the least populous state in India, is famous for its picturesque landscapes, monasteries and biodiversity. Be it the capital city Gangtok, trekking to Tsomgo Lake, or the world-famous monasteries, Sikkim has a special experience for budget travellers. The state is well-equipped with transportation, and many natural highlights are easily accessible without breaking the bank.

Things to Do:
- Trek: Trek in Sikkim: There are multiple trekking routes in Sikkim, such as the famous Goecha La Trek and Yuksom to Dzongri trek. This way, you can get splendid views of Kanchenjunga without spending much.
- Stopover at the Rumtek Monastery: A visit to the Rumtek Monastery is a relatively large and significant monastery of Sikkim.
- Spend a day at Tsomgo Lake: The Tsomgo Lake at 12,313 ft is for those who cannot compromise on the visuals for budget constraints.
Budget Tips:

You’ll find options for accommodations to suit all budgets in Sikkim – from inexpensive hostels to basic guesthouses, with rooms available from just ₹500 per night.

Cheap, filling local food such as momos and thukpa is also a good way to experience the local flavours.

Conclusion

India is a country of contrasts and arguably the perfect place for those looking for that rose-tinted travel experience – from verdant hill stations to relaxing beaches, spiritual getaways, and high-altitude hikes. These top five spots—Alleppey, Rishikesh, Gokarna, Dharamsala & McLeodganj, and Sikkim—serve as a testament to traversing the country without emptying your wallet. Staying in budget places, using local transport, and eating street food are ways to get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags, plan your trip, and explore these amazing destinations without spending much money!
April 18, 2017
Enjoy a Hassle Free Journey by Hiring a Bus
When planning a holiday or vacation, the most important thing is, to select the best bus hire services. You look for services, which are excellent and offer you an incredible experience of moving from one place to the other. No matter to which place or destination you are traveling to, hiring the local bus services is the right thing to do. It is because drivers are well versed with all the routes and can guide you in the right direction. Mere relying on any local bus hire service is not easy to find a reputed company for the same.

So, rather than going by the information, it will be good if you ponder over other aspects too while taking the decision. Here are some of the points to look into.
- Reputation of the company
This is one of the biggest aspects as the reputation of the company can have a big impact on the quality of services offered. In addition, more people trust a reputed bus company so you can rest assured that the services would be top notch. So, make sure that the bus service company is reliable and worth availing their services.
- Types of bus service
The bus hire companies have various kind of services available like air-conditioned buses, Non-AC services, luxury buses, etc. So, as per your need and budget you can easily make your choice as which bus service can make your holiday a pleasant one. The cost of the services varies with the type and the facility offered. Thus, have a look at the rates and then book your tickets.
- Experience of the driver
Make sure the drivers of a company not only have their driving license, but also trained enough to travel long as well as short distances. This is possible when the company hires the fully trained and licensed people only. You can also inquire about the driver to know more about them and satisfy yourself completely before you plan to avail their services finally.
- Cost factor
The cost of the bus hire service depends entirely on the type of the bus you plan to choose. More luxurious the bus, higher will be the cost. Therefore, it is a good idea to have a look at all the options first and then compare them to check which one meet your needs and the budget, both. Accordingly, you can finalize which bus service will be apt as well as comfortable for you and family.
- Is online booking facility available?
Nowadays, most of the bus services provide the option to book tickets online. So, ensure that the same is given to you. With the online booking, you can easily select the seat of your choices and enjoy the journey to the fullest. In addition, you are able to enjoy comfort level too, as you have opted the seats, which seem the best to you.
- Refund policy
Go through the refund policy to get an idea about the charges to be deducted if you cancel your tickets. This is available on the website of the bus company or you can even inquire the same through their respective customer care team. It is important to have information about the cancellation policy too, so that you can ask for a refund, in case, you need to cancel the tickets due to any reason.

So, these are some of the aspects that can help you to choose the most trusted bus hire service in your area or any place you travel. You can even check the online reviews to know more about them.
April 5, 2017
On a Drinking Spree – The Best Pubs to Explore in the Beach State of Goa

Cape Town Cafe – The Cape Town Cafe is a fantastic place that combines as a restaurant, pub and a club, with excellent food and large projection screens to tune live sports. The pub cum cafe is considered to be one of the happening places adjacent to another popular night spot, the Tito’s. Infact, you can spot a lot of people frequenting the cafe, before and after going to the Tito’s.

Mango Tree Bar and Cafe – This pub seems more like an open shack. Located at the road leading to the Vagator beach, the Mango Tree Bar and Cafe is considered to be a very popular bar in Goa. With an amazing menu presenting the best of delicious breakfasts and the bar spinning hippest reggae beats along with the cocktails, this pub has always been very famous among both local and foreign tourists. The cafe sports a funky decor and also consists of a large projection screen, showing movies, music videos and even live sports.

Casa Bela – Casa Bela is a small bar located in the Mapusa area of Goa and is a perfect place to escape from the daily hustle bustle of the tourist heavy areas. If you’re looking for an ideal place to relax, read a book while sipping a mug of chilled beer or just enjoy a hearty meal with your friends, this where you need to head.

Jerry John Jonesius (JJJ) – An old player in the list of best pubs in Goa, Jerry John Jonesius or JJJ (as the locals say) is a famous hangout place for the locals and tourists alike. The best part about the comfortable ambience of the pub is that you can enjoy your company as well. Sitting on the bar table and chatting to the bartender, you’d definitely come across some new stories about the bar and the place. The place is also quite pocket friendly.

Club Cubana – Located at the Calangute region, Club Cubana is another popular place to enjoy drinks with your family and friends. The pub is known for its distinct decor, fantastic music and array of exotic drinks. If you’re looking for a place to party this new year, the pub emerges as an affordable option to enjoy a great party with friends.

Cocktails and Dreams – Another fantastic pub to explore in Tito’s lane is Cocktails and Dreams. Crowded with the Baga Beach goers, the pub is famous for its amazing EDM playlist and wide range of cocktails. The pub also has branches in Anjuna, Palolem and Morjim.

February 26, 2016
Making For a Great Honeymoon Experience

Honeymoon, the word itself is enough to make anyone dream of romantic locations and couples swooning over each other. So, why not travel to a place where these dreams meet reality? Come let’s take you to some of the most alluring places on Earth where you can plan your beautiful days with your beloved…

For people who are turning pages of thick travel magazines for one of the most unique honeymoon location, Jukkasjarvi in Sweden could be the one for you. Located at a distance of about 200 kilometres north of the Arctic circle, The Ice Hotel is both unusual and astounding. It is constructed with ice and snow year after year in winters and is lit up by northern lights which would leave any couple spellbound. The honeymoon packages available here can be customised according to one’s preference.

If you both love adventure, gear up for one of India’s most dangerous roads, Jalori Pass or take up a Himalayan roadtrip together. For one, it would give you both an experience of a lifetime and two, it’ll help you both map each other’s mind on the difficult terrains of life. If you’ve ever dreamt of a German fairy tale with gingerbread houses and medieval castles, visit Heidelberg for your honeymoon. Spend your entire day in tranquillity and peace, relaxing by the river side or just cuddling together on a hammock on a bright sunny day. Try a variety of cuisines, visit traditional breweries, meet different people on the way and click a lot of pictures to make the journey more memorable.

Though most people would prefer Venice over any other romantic place on the planet, but the Burgh Island is surely worth a shot. Set far away from the mainland and linked with a picturesque causeway, the art deco hotel offers breathtaking views of the sea and the tidal waves. The period furnishing, old fashioned glamour and warmest hospitality takes you back in time. Pack your swimsuits as well as your gladrags for the rock pool and the dinner dances. You can also take up a cruise to the Caribbean or spend your time on a weeklong voyage.

Couples who love candle-light dinners, soaking up in the scenery and walking barefoot in the sand must visit Bali. One of the most prominent honeymoon location in the world, it is renowned for its high-end resorts, enchanting tourist spots and rows of lush green rice fields. Foodie-couples can fuel themselves in Singapore and relish their unique platter or head straight to Mexico for their rich, steamy sauces. The Spanish cuisine is also a great option to explore for the newlyweds.

For an ultimate castaway experience, travel to Tahiti, French Polynesia. The crystal clear water, tiny islands and quaint beaches are perfect to spark the fire of romance. The endless ocean views in the day and the stargazing at night, while sitting in one of the overwater bungalows is painted as a classic, ideal landscape for two.

In case you have already been on one, keep adding these places to your post-wedding-trip list and enjoy a great time with your spouse all throughout your life! Bon Voyage!

January 29, 2016
Spending A Tranquil Time In A Little Known Hill Resort- Naldehra

Want to explore a peaceful and little-known hill station close Shimla? Naldehra is a perfect spot. Take your family and companions and appreciate the diverse tints of Naldehra. Read on.

The Naldehra hill town close Shimla is a photo impeccable destination. The blue skies, lavish green timberlands and an incidental rainbow tossed in make the spot appear as though it has been painted on a canvas. By records, Lord Curzon; the British Viceroy was the individual who found this excellent station. He was so stunned with the surroundings that he chose to fabricate a green in the area. With a few different dialects, English is generally spoken here. In winter, the temperature can drop underneath the point of solidification when overwhelming woolens are required. Summer temperature is mellow and light woolens are prescribed.

Situated 22 km away from Shimla, Naldehra (2044 m) is a paradise for voyagers. It brags of the most established 9 opening green in the nation. The all around prepared Golf Course is an exquisite verdant, maybe one of the finest and energetic in India. Delegated with a springing turf the Golf Course was recommended by Lord Curzon. It is the venue of numerous rivalries. The Nag temple is likewise situated here and Naldehra gets its name from it.

It is a beautiful town and the brilliant encompassing charms the guests. Naldehra is gradually picking up prevalence among the guests. Diverse Naldehra tour packages are in offer now by different tour operators. Naldehra is very much associated with different parts of the nation. The closest airport to the destination is the Jubbarhatti Airport, which associate with spots such as Delhi and Mumbai. The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in Delhi is the nearest worldwide air base to the slope station.

Places to visit:

Chabba, Shaily Peak and Mahakali Temple , BesidesGolf Course Naldehra is well known for world celebrated Golf Course, TATTAPANI At 656m, there are hot sulfur springs accepted to have therapeutic worth are a percentage of the noticeable spots to visit in Naldehra.

The Joton Ka Mela and The Sipi Fair are two fundamental celebrations and occasions of Nalehra that are praised with bliss. The Sipi Fair is committed to Sip Devta and held in the month of May while a few societies gather and trade. It’s an extraordinary event for couples to get wed as well. The other one-Joton ka Mela is a bull battling reasonable that is directed each year in the month of October to stimulate the group. In this reasonable, the prized bulls are being sold to careful purchasers.

In Naldehra, you can purchase hand woven shawls, tops, pickles and other sustenance things at sensible expense. It’s a little ridge thus you can just get an assortment of nourishment things and handmade items. Earlier it was a different spot, but slowly and steadily the spot undergone a huge change. So, pack your back and plan a trip to Naldehra. Have a nice time ahead!

Naldehra tour packages are available in different cost. Pick one according to your budget and do check whether it cover all the prominent spots of the town.

January 8, 2016
These Festivals Will Make You Board The Next Train To Rajasthan

When it comes to festivals, Rajasthan is not just recalled for its cultural melange and artistic attractions but it is also known to brush our antiquated memory and revive our love for the spectrum of wingding the country offers us on our platters. Let us today take you to the timeless journey of Rajasthan’s unique events and festivals that transform a lifeless desert into a lively paradise on Earth.

Jaipur is no doubt, Rajasthan’s most flamboyant city. Not only does it provide a delightful travelling experience but it also gives us opportunity to be a part of the city’s most intellectual and extravagant festival. The Jaipur Literature Festival is attended by some of the most established readers and writers from all across the planet. It provides a one-on-one interaction platform for authors and his admirers to come together under one roof and cherish the conversations.’

In case you are travelling to Rajasthan in the month of October, a 5 hours drive from Jaipur will lead you to another spectacular folk festival held in the historic Mehrangarh Fort. The Jodhpur RIFF brings together international artists of folk music from countries like Australia, Scotland and Yemen. Though it is only a couple of hours away from the capital, you can skip the driving part if you want and board the superfast Jodhpur to Jaipur train that plies to and forth between the stations daily.

Who on Earth is not aware of the craziest, greatest and the much awaited “Ragasthan”? A three day non-stop festival of Jaisalmer, fun filled with eclectic music and power-packed performances by various artists that gets bigger and better year after year. Touring on camels, dancing under the moonlit sky and camping in the middle of a stunning desert describes the uniqueness of the festival.

Yet another 3 day affair that pulls the visitors to the state of Rajasthan is the World Sufi Spirit Festival. Held in two of the most popular forts of Jodhpur and Nagaur, this is a one stop destination for global spiritual performances. Performers from as far as Morocco, Tajikistan and Azerbaijan come together to entice the audience with their soulful voice and sufi music. Even if you are a die-hard rock music lover, you will surely find it hard to come out of the spell that this festival will have on you.

Do you wish to be a part of a magical setting in the air which is much more beautiful than a regular candle light dinner? Well, if yes, we have a place for you! The Pushkar International Balloon Festival of Rajasthan will literally sweep you off your feet and let you admire the mystical Aravalli range while taking a ride in the huge air balloons dotting in sky like picture-perfect scenery you always wanted to be a part of! So are you ready to fly?

Last, but not the least, if you are looking for an all-in-one place to enjoy music, literature, stargazing, kite-flying, yoga and art in Rajasthan, straightaway head to the most aesthetic Magnetic Festival. With over 40 artists from around the world, this 3 day festival unveils a perfect blend of diverse cultures and ethnic communities coming together to be a part of this delightful event.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Rajasthan right now!

December 9, 2015
New Year’s In India – A New Beginning To A Newer Approach Of Togetherness

The one festival in India when the moment you turn on the national news channel on the particular day, you see streets of every city filled with young and old in all smiles and celebrating together. The scene of the celebrations of New Year’s day is a beautiful affair in a country with so much cultural and religious diversity. This article briefly talks about the New Year’s celebration in India.

India is a land of festivals. The calendar of the country is marked with one festival to the next and each festival is celebrated in a manner it should be in some part or the other in India. There are some major festivals which is celebrated hugely by a large mass in joyous manner in most parts of the country by people of that faith or religion, at the same time the other remaining mass does not celebrate it at all as it is not a festival of their faith. This is the primary reason it is safe to say that New Year’s is the only festival each and everyone celebrates together breaking the religious and cultural barrier.

New year’s falls in winter, and winter is the best time to go on a vacation in India as the summers are always too hot and humid in most places to enjoy one’s self. The best places to celebrate New Year largely depends on the theme you adopt for or are looking forward to your trip. Each place and city has their own charm and way of celebrating New Year’s and once you decide on that you can easily choose your location.

India is a diverse country and a country with still many old traditional practises leading to a confinement of many cultural, religious and traditional ties. Although one part of India may celebrate a big festival in the most pompous manner, it is a cold and is a normal day in the other parts of the country. This is where the celebrations of New Year’s standout. New Year’s is not a celebration that comes under any specific religion. It is a general celebratory time for people regardless of all odds and people have various ways to celebrate the welcoming of the new year.

Some treat New Year’s as an auspicious celebration and thank God for the past year and pray for the blessings in the forthcoming year and choose a quieter, solemn celebration to this day. While some celebrate by having fun and indulge themselves in enjoyment and partying until the clock strikes midnight and welcome the new year.

New Year’s is a time when many people go on vacations as it the best time of the year. Cities and beach destinations are the favorites of these people, while some choose a quiet and a romantic getaway. Any city with the potential of being a place where people can come and celebrate is always full of people during this time and it is wise to book your travelling tickets and hotel rooms in advance as the demand surges to an unusual high during this time. Oyo rooms hotel is a good way to securely make your booking. You can sit at home and compare the hotels reading customer reviews and looking the pictures of the hotels. Once the bookings are done and you have a place to stay having chosen a safe destination according to the recommendations given to you, all you have to do is let yourself loose and embrace whatever that city has to offer you and make it a memorable trip and year.

November 23, 2015
Ooty, A Heaven On Earth In True Sense

Ooty simply bewitches one with its unmatched natural splendor. The former home to the Toda tribes, followed by the British who popularized it as a summer retreat, and today a well-known honeymoon destination, Ooty houses a plethora of interesting tourist attractions. Visit the place for a wonderful vacation and pick from the best Ooty hotels.

Ooty, the queen of hill stations in India has many charms to it. A former home of the Toda tribes, a place rediscovered by the British who later colonized it to a large extent and developed it as a summer retreat, a place consisting of rolling hills covered in dense vegetation and forests, a popular gateway to access many of the popular wildlife sanctuaries of South India, home to the highest peak in the entire district, home to a 22 hectare botanical gardens that consist of 650 species of plants, herbs, and trees along with the fossil of a tree that is conceived to be older than 20 million years, etc., everything about the place is exciting and bewitching.

Located in the Nilgiri Mountain Range, or rather popularly, the Blue Mountains, Ooty attracts multiple swarms of tourists, honeymooners, nature lovers, adventurers, etc. every year. A large number of Ooty hotelsbelonging to different budget brackets and offering a comfortable stay to all travelers ensures that one’s experience in the place is a memorable one. It is no exaggeration in saying that Ooty is a love at first sight. The unparalleled natural splendor, which makes every other hill station envy the place, going merry with the simplistic way of living of the locals is an allure to explore and experience. The place is miles away from the hullaballoo of the larger Indian cities as they are becoming materialistic every passing day. The wonderful quietude that resides here is just perfect for one to spend a couple of days away from the madness of the cities.

Backpackers travel from far and wide to reach the city. Despite the long distances a journey to Ooty on the miniature train or via road is what that a traveler always looks forward to. The road is heavenly with greenery residing on both sides of it and a number of scenic locations falling on the way. However, it is quite hard to overlook the fun miniature train ride that includes different turns and scenic locales.

Ooty provides the tourists with a large pool of tourist attractions and allures. While you are here, one thing that you are expected to do is try the homemade chocolates, and the best place to have them is probably the King’s Star, who were the initiators of chocolate making in the region. Today, the third generation of the family runs the business and still makes the finest chocolates. While you relish the savories, visiting the miles and miles sprawling tea estates is also a good thing to do. You could visit the tea factory and watch the tea being made, which is considered amongst the best tea, as well as sip some hot tea. Apart from that, there are a number of treks, bicycling, and some more adventure activities that can keep you busy the whole time.

Amongst the significant tourist attractions that are a must-visit are: Ooty Rose gardens, Sim’s Park, Wax World, Hidden Valley, Dolphin’s Nose, Echo Rock, Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta Peak, etc. Head to the place for a wonderful vacation. It is advisable to book the train tickets well in advance as there is generally a horde of tourists. There are a number of ways to do IRCTC train enquiry that can help you with booking train tickets.

November 19, 2015
Manali – The Destination Worth Venturing

The beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh plays home to many beautiful tourist destinations and tourist sweet spots in India and Manali is one such destination. A small town and hill station of the state, this beautiful destination attracts tourists and travellers from all over India and the world and contributes largely to the economy of Himachal Pradesh through its tourism.

Manali, a holiday destination which rings a bell in everyone’s ears. This beautiful hill station has been and still is one of the most loved holiday destination for the people in India and tourists alike. Flooded with tourists during both summers and winters, this popular tourist spot has a temperate cool climate in summer and a beautiful snowy winter with the mystical view of snow clad mountains and snow covered trees, making Manali one of the most desired tourist destination in India.

Situated at the Northern end of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, this small town and popular hill station is also small in population however, it is filled with travellers and visitors throughout the year. This place being a hot tourist hub and an important tourist destination, there has been various establishments set up now to cater to the needs and services of the visitors. There is a large array of resorts, restaurants, places of interest, street joints and hotels in Manali you could choose from.

There are many things you could do here. You may just come for a relaxing trip to enjoy the view of the picturesque landscape and breathe the fresh air and forget about your hectic schedule for a few days or you may be here for an adventurous road trip with a couple of friends. In both cases you could, in the case of the former, book a nice room at a luxurious hotel and go for sightseeing during the day and take a stroll around the town and maybe go up to some viewpoints to get the whole panoramic view of Manali and eat in the fine restaurants the town has to offer. Or you could, in the case of the latter, get your gear and backpack and start trekking you way along the hills or play sports like water rafting etc. Manali also offers other interesting stuff, for instance, you could get you name carved in on a single grain of rice and that could be one of the best souvenirs you could take home or carve the names of your friends and gift it to them. The Mall road in Manali has a diverse line of restaurants with the cuisines ranging right up from the Indian chaats to Indian spiced main courses to international cuisines. Old Manali is one of the best places to hang out in the evening. It also has a great collection of restaurants/bars and shops. It is also not crowded like the Mall Road, with the crowd consisting mostly of foreigners. It is here you will find resto-bars such as “the lazy dog” which has favourable reviews and is highly recommended by many travel guides.

Manali offers its visitors the time of their lives. Its incomparable beauty with its added charm in the diversity of the cultures of the people living there reflects in their cuisine and lifestyle. If you plan your trip properly you could end up staying longer than you intend to initially because the cost of living by choice is not too heavy. There are buses coming in and going the town for a nominal fare, the food is very reasonably priced, there is an abundance of locally made alcohol and wine which is not only worth trying and consuming on your stay there but also much easier on the wallet compared to the bottled spirits and there are cheap hotels in Manali everywhere.

October 27, 2015