A Spiritual Walk along the Banks of Ganges at Haridwar

For a family where spirituality prevails, the holiday destinations sometimes are the holy cities where one can find solace from fast-paced urban life. Just like masses of people who consider 'Twin National Heritage Cities' Haridwar and Rishikesh as one of the most religious pilgrimage destination, my father always loved visiting these mystical places. 

I've fond memories of visiting these places since childhood, so here is what delights me about the locations.

Har ki Pauri:

The most pious ghat at the banks of Ganges, Har ki Pauri, offers the most divine experience to devotees during Ganga Aarti every evening. Watching thousands of the diyas floating on the waters while the hymns being recited by the priests fill your heart with purity and devotion for Almighty. A dip into sacred waters of Ganges is believed to wash away all your sins.

Mandir Darshan:

At this major spiritual landmark of India, you'll find temples (mandir) of many Hindu Gods and Goddesses in every corner of the city. Chandi Devi Mandir, Daksheswara Maharaj Mandir, Maya Devi Mandir, Vaishno Devi Mandir, Doodhadhari Barfani Baba Mandir, Bharat Mata Mandir etc. are some popular temples of Hindu religion in Haridwar. 

Most revered of all the Haridwar temples is the Mansa Devi Mandir. The temple is located steep atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Sivalik Hills. You can either trek, climb the steps or go via Udhankhatola (Cable Car/ Ropeway) to the temple.

The view from the cable car will simply amaze you and it's highly recommended to enjoy if you have children in the family.  

Adventure Sport at Rishikesh:

The Yog Capital of the World, Rishikesh, has many adventure activities to indulge into. It depends on the preference and age-appropriateness of the participant what you're allowed to partake. Bungee Jumping, Flying Fox, Powered Paragliding, Jungle Camping, Trekking, River Rafting are the best among the long list of other thrilling Rishikesh adventure sports.  

Food Trails:

Haridwar is a heaven for food lovers. Spicy Aloo Puri, Frothy Kulhar Milk, Crispy Kachoris and Samosas, Fresh Fruits, Seasonal Juices and Flavoured Kulfis have been my super favourites. Everything is available at such pocket-friendly prices that you need not resist your temptations because of expenses.

A visit to the ancient city of Haridwar is highly recommended for a peaceful stay with tranquil atmosphere, but should avoid travelling during the Hindu month of Shrawan around July due to heavy crowd and blocked roads because of Kaanwar Yatra by Shiv devotees in many parts of the country.

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon.

Journey to the Last Indian Village in Himachal – Chitkul

Located in the heart of Kinnaur Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul is a little station which gives you the sentiment of having gone far away from civilization. The village lies on the Indo-Tibetan trade route, therefore being the last village of India which can be visited without a permit. Bearing a distance of about 600 kilometers from Delhi and 28 kilometers from Sangla Valley, Chitkul is handsomely based at a height of 3450m and excites travelers with its enchanting beauty. 

PC https://goo.gl/images/pRgw2h

There are two routes to reach Chitkul and the drive is purely a delightful treat both ways. You can start off for Chandigarh from Delhi via bus. From Chandigarh, board a state bus or HRTC and reach Reckong Peo in about 10-12 hours. Chitkul lies 60 kilometers ahead of Reckong Peo. Another transit bus will drop you at Chitkul within 3 hours.

Alternatively, you may travel to Shimla from Delhi, stay a night there and board an early morning bus to Sangla and reach there in around 7 hours. In another 2 hours, you will reach Chitkul via Rakcham. Sangla Valley is a wonderful creation of God which offers enthralling scenic views for nature lovers.

PC https://goo.gl/images/ogi4gR

The small hamlet of Chitkul is situated on the banks of Baspa River that hold crystal clear blue green waters. Around 600 people reside in the village and traces of Indo-Tibetan connection can still be seen in the region. On the left bank of Baspa River lies the snowcapped mountains while on the right bank, the whole tail is flooded with apple orchids. Chitkul is an amazing destination for Himalayan Trekking. It is a perfect place to go for long walks, long and short treks as well as night camping. It is a gateway to Lamkhaga Pass Trek, Rupin Pass Trek & Borasu Pass Trek. Just a few kilometers away from the village is the Nagasthi ITPB post, the last Indian outpost on the border. Ranikanda meadows is a 10 kilometer beautiful trek from Chitkul. The small pretty village is also famous for trout fishing and adventure sports such as mountain biking, bouldering, slackling etc. Mathi temple is a must visit place. The temple is said to be 500 years old and is well known for its art and architecture.

PC https://goo.gl/images/a1SJ3y

There are roadside dhabas and few teashops that serve tasty Tibetan style food like momos and thukpa (noodle soup). Bright colored Kinnaur shawals and woolen stuff make a lovely gift to carry back. Also, look up for attractive silver jewellery embedded with turquoise, coral and rare Tibetan pearls. The delicious golden apples and peaches can be bought from there at cheap prices than on the plains. 

Best time to visit the place is from May to October. During these months, you can explore mountains, wide grasslands, apple orchids and swirling river currents. However, the village is closed from November to February due to heavy snowfall. Chitkul, being away from civilization, is an ideal holiday spot for travelers and peace seekers. The mini land of Chitkul is blessed with splendid mountain sights and wonderful natural bliss.

*Guest Post

Discover Celestial Paradise at Assam

"Beauty surrounds us, but usually we need to be walking in a garden to know it." 

Speaking of the delight of enjoying beauty of a 'garden', the first thing that comes to my mind is luscious, emerald-green tea estates that I've always admired in Hindi movies and travel magazines. A nature-walk amidst the peaceful environment of leisurely tea gardens is destined to mesmerise a tea-lover like me.

Our rich-cultured nation can boast of many flourished tea cultivation regions in different parts of the country, but the red river state Assam is definitely worth your time. Assam, also known as the 'Tea Capital of the World' is actually a perfect escape from our hectic schedule and rejuvenates you deep down the soul.

Image Courtesy: thehook.news

Some of the highlights for your Assam tour should be-

Wildlife Sighting:

While Assam's Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for providing habitat to two-thirds of the world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses, threatened species and migratory birds; Saikhowa National Park has been declared as one of the biodiversity hot spots in the world and is home for many rare and endangered species. Manas National Park, again a well-known site, is the only place in Assam that is covered under the Project Tiger. Gibbon wildlife sanctuary, Orang National Park, Nameri National Park- all make Assam an ideal one to plan for wildlife holidays.

Image Courtesy: kipepeo.in

Tea Tourism:

Quite similar to 'Wine Tourism' popular in  European countries, a relatively newer and innovative concept by the Assam Tourism i.e Tea Tourism is catching up to give its tourists an incredible experience of staycation at heritage bungalows being the relics of British colonial era. Some of admired bungalows are Hunlal Tea Estate Bungalow, Thengal Manor in Jorhat, Bungalows of Balipara, Charduar and Basha Tea Estate etc. Not only you get to stay at these luxurious bungalows, but you get opportunity to visit factories to get a closer look at tea processing and tasting. The cultural activities organised exclusively for the visitors bring about the historic indulgence.

Image Courtesy: travelinabag.com

Assam Tea Festival:

If you happen to visit Assam in the month of November, don't miss being a part of the fusion of tea, music and recreation at the Assam Tea festival hosted by the Assam Tourism. The festival is a great time to mingle with Assamese and appreciate their culture. For a travel enthusiast, many entertaining activities like a visit to the Golf course, jungle safari, angling, river rafting and romantic river cruises are rolled into one magnificent event.

Adventure Sport:

Beyond the soothing lush greens, Assam has lot of scope for eveything to give you an intense adrenaline rush amidst the curvy mountains, gushing rivers and open skies. The aquasports lovers can thrill themselves with boat racing in the cold waters at Hajo, Saulkuchi or Barpeta. If you're somewhere near Kamakhya hills, Parasailing and Hang Gliding are must try. The most ideal site for Angling in Assam is river Jia Bhoroli, Kapil and Manas. If you come to climb the hills, then the Karbi hills and the Cachar hills are the best places for trekking by the mountaineers.

Image Courtesy: assamtouristspots.wordpress.com

Tocklai Tea Research Centre

Asia’s largest and oldest tea research institute located in Jorhat, Assam where research on tea cultivation is being conducted since its establishment in 1911. The guesthouse in Tocklai built in 1926 has now been declared a heritage building and one has to avail prior permission from the Tocklai Administrative Office to stay over. The scientists at the institure are ready to set up an initiation in the field of diversified product of Assam tea by fermentation of different type of tea with different stimulating organic agents for beneficial properties on human health.

Once you're decided on what aspect of Assam travel you would be exploring to the depths, make sure to tickle your tastebuds with flavourful traditional Assamese Cuisine. Delicious pork, chicken and mutton dishes like Khaar, Maasor Tenga, Paro Manxho, Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura will leave the non-vegetarians craving for more. But there are abundant of lip smacking vegetarian dishes like

Koldilor Bor, Aloo and Baingan Pitika, Mohura Pitha, Bhendir sorsori, Bootor dali for a tummyful of contentment.

Image Courtesy: kipepeo.in

I hope I've excited you enough for your next holiday at picturesque green vista of manicured tea estates of Assam. So go get travelling to discover the hospitable population, distinctive cuisine and a vibrant artistic heritage of India.

Best Weekend Treks Near Delhi

The week has just begun and my mind is lost in thoughts about the ways I can get away with the week long hectic routines that are to be followed before another weekend sees a ray of hope.... Are my thoughts echoing with yours too? Are you on a hunt for that perfect short-break that rejuvenates you and preps you to bear with the upcoming week? Well, then we are on the same track and the following lines are meant for you... These words will act like a magic to your quotidian life.

When it comes to a weekend trek near Delhi, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, it forms a perfect match to our needs. Luckily, these states are filled with abundant of options to choose from and spend an enthralling weekend with friends, family or even solo. So here’s a comprehensive list of trekking options near Delhi -

1. Parashar Lake Trek 
Probably one of the most famed weekend treks...famed not only for its easy to approach, but also the immense beauty it is filled with. The Parashar Lake trek starts from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. This 11 km long trail forms a perfect getaway for 2 days. The best time to get lost in its tranquillity is the winter months starting December and running until late March.

2. Nag Tibba Trek 

Situated close to Mussorie, Uttarakhand, the trek to Nag Tibba (Serpent’s Peak) takes you to a height of up to 3000 meters. Have an extended weekend coming up? Then Nag Tibba makes for an ideal and easy trek taking you up to the highest peak of the Nag Tibba range of Garhwal Himalayas. Passing through the thick Oak and Deodar forests reaching atop the peak, you will be welcomed by picturesque views of the ‘Swargarohini Peak’, ‘Bandarpunch Peak’, ‘Kedar Nath Peak’, ‘Kala Nag Peak’ and ‘Gangotri’ group of peaks.

3. Hatu Peak trek 

Ascending up to a height of 3300 meters, this 16 km of trek from Shimla is an ideal way to spend your weekend. Walking under a continuous shade of under the cover of conifer, deodar, fir, spruce and moru; you reach half way up the ridge to find a small pond. Stop by to freshen up your face and capture the moments in your lenses before you proceed further. From the top you get to savour 360 degree views of snow-capped peaks, sprawling valleys and rustic villages perching in the hills. Un-noticed the time will flow and soon you will have to head back home, but you will be taking this view back home that’s gonna live with you forever. 

Image Credits: www.nikhilchandra.in

4. Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek 

Accessible round the year, the 28 km treks attains a maximum height of 4000m and is a best choice to make for a long weekend. Deoriatal Chandrashila trek commences from Sari village and passes through Deoria Tal, Chopta and Tungnath to reach the summit of Chandrashila (4000m). Reaching the top, you are offered with panoramic vistas of the majestic Himalayas. Take endowments at this highest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and enjoy the view of Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Nandadevi and Trishul peaks. The weekend couldn’t get better than this.

5. Triund Trek
Triund is a gem of all treks when it comes to weekend treks from Delhi. Starting from the town of Tibetans, Mcleodganj, this short 16 km trek takes you through a trail lined up with pines, deodars and rhododendrons on both sides. Beside this, your soul is blessed with stunningly sky rising peaks of Mun, Rifle Horn, Arthur’s Seat and Slab. The best and most memorable part of the trek would be panoramic vistas of Kangra valley and a night under million stars.

6. Lansdowne Trek
When I say 'Lansdowne', a thought would pass across your mind and you will question yourself like SERIOUSLY! Lansdowne has a trek too? Well, the answer is yes. Lansdowne is not just a place loved by Britishers in the past but has kept its nature’s legacy even today. On offer are a plenty of trails to choose from, like a walking up to the Tiffin Top for a magical views of Himalayas. A walk on the town streets itself will give you a feel of trekking amidst thick pines as cool air caresses your hair and the view of Mt. Chaukhamba and Trishul leaves an imprint on your mind.

Image Credits : www.traveltriangle.com

So with these six chosen treks though the list won’t never end, you weekends are well sorted...Open almost all through the year the above mentioned treks will suit your spontaneous plans. Guess what? You won’t even feel tiresome on returning home as they are all graded as easy level treks and some are even perfect for family hike too...So what’s the wait for? Set on the enthralling adventure that will set you up for weeks to follow until you head out on another one.

*Guest Post

Mesmerizing Memories of Dubai Vacations

I love the time of life when I'm never knowing what day of the week it is, and that's the time when I'm on vacation with my girly gang. 

Aah! Those lazy days and beautiful nights, some girly talk and crazy cat fights ;) ha ha ha. 

On a serious note, I truly love travelling :) Travel for me is not to escape life, but for life not to escape us. It's actually a new way to see things around and feel privileged that you could witness the beauty of this lively planet.

Few months back (in the month of June, to be exact), me and my girly gang got an amazing opportunity to create magic in our lives by enjoying an overseas trip together. We knew our 'summer' will end with good memories now, so we quickly enrolled ourselves to avail the travel package to Dubai. 

We felt elated to find that our two-way flights were booked with Emirates Airlines, one of the leading airlines across the world that offers excellent service in terms of baggage allowance, in-flight dining, passenger security and everything else. Adding to our convenience, all the pre and post booking procedure was provide online that relieved us from all the hassle.

Immediately after landing at the beautiful destination, the exuberant girls just took few minutes to freshen up their looks with quick touch ups and we were good to go ;) And here's how the 'land of fantasies' entertained us with its world-class attractions.

The live Dolphin and Seal Show at the Dubai Dolphinarium was the highlight of Day 1. Watching these amicable creatures perform incredible acrobatic moves thrilled everyone present in the hall full of thousands of spectators. Hats off to the trainers who conduct every show with such precision!

Another leisurely activity to thrill the adventurers in us awaited us at the soft sand of Dubai Desert Safari the next day. The Camel Trekking, Sand boarding, Quad Riding activities followed by BBQ dinner served under starlit sky & the belly dancers performing sultry moves made it an experience that we will never forget. Watching the sun go down over the horizon from the highest sand dune served a perfect backdrop for many memorable photographs.

I know, you are all wondering if we missed visiting the mega sky scrapper?? Well, nah! Next morning after we had our breakfast, we were transported to the tallest building of the world, Burj Khalifa. Wow! the stunning marvel of engineering presented a view that left us breathless.

Before heading back to the hotel, we spent some gala time at places like Gold Souk, Marina Dhow Cruise and Sheikhs Palace too. As our wonderful trip was coming to an end, we bought some exclusive souvenirs for family back home from the charming gift shops of Dubai and returned back richer in our memories. Because traveling with friends is the only thing that makes you 'richer' and 'happier'.

Memorable Mumbai Moments

'Travel' and 'Friends' make the best of duo. Exploring new places and capturing incredible moments on the way develops the closest bond forever. The golden moments that we spend with friends while travelling are fine tuned that actually make our hearts beat in rhythm. The friends who love to travel with me are some of the most affectionate friends I could possibly ever ask for.

Lucky me that I got an invite from my bestie Babita few months back to accompany her for a not-so-long trip to Mumbai. I swear, such unplanned trips can give me a high any time ;) I was excited n happy as a clan ...... no wonder that it was my repeated rings on her doorbell next morning that woke my bestie up....And then started our undeniably fun-filled train journey... The journey actually liberated our minds off things for the little while when we were enjoying exclusive goodies in the train that we usually don’t get elsewhere.

Searching for a well-connected accommodation in the city had not been a task as the city offered us wide choices of affordable hotels in Mumbai. We chose to stay at three-star rated Astoria Hotel to enjoy the cool sea breeze of the Arabian Sea and amicable cordiality.

The magnificent beaches, holy temples, sculpted caves & amusement parks in the City of Dreams & Aspiration officially turned my dream into reality. I was living my dreams and making memories with my lovely friend wherever we went... I was almost unstoppable capturing the beauty of the city..

We spent our first evening admiring the brilliant view of Marine drive. Sharing light chit-chat while relishing yummy snacky dishes had been surprisingly relaxing. The view of long 4km promenade shining with lights in the night proved why it is referred as Queen's Necklace.

Though I'm not a big fan of Cricket, but the most notable Wankhede cricket stadium is a must-visit. The Wankhede stadium has been the playground for famous Mumbai cricketers like Vijay Merchant, Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar. The stadium has been home to some of the greatest cricketers to have played for the country and obviously has its own fair share of unforgettable memories attached to it.

No Bollywood fan can afford missing a glimpse of Mannat, our very own heartthrob SRK's house. Just like crazy SRK fans, I couldn't scribble any colourful messages on the walls of his house, but could manage to get few pictures clicked at the gate of this six storey high bungalow of Baadshah ;)

The sun rose another day with our introduction to serenity when we stepped-in at The Global Vipassana Pagoda, one of the largest stone monuments in Asia. The monument honours Gautama Buddha, explains his Teaching and expresses gratitude to Myanmar for preserving Vipassana Meditation. The genuine relics of the Buddha are enshrined here. The pristine beauty of the place felt deeply therapeutic to the soul and seemed nothing less than an extension of Heavens on Earth. A sense of sheer pride filled our heart to witness such a beacon of Peace and Harmony in the heritage treasury of our country.

Our trip could not have any better conclusion than this self-realization of wholesome human qualities at Pagoda. We returned home possessing a clearer conscience that could now acknowledge compassion more readily. I genuinely would treasure the memorable moments I accumulated at Mumbai and on my way back home, the only thing that I could sing in my heart was--

Have you ever visited the City of Dream? What's your favourite destination there? Do share your experience with us :)

Melbourne Melodia

A trip abroad is my secret wish since the day I got my passport ready ;) The lush beautiful places in the world invite me for an ultimate experience. I won't mind if hubby dear takes me in any part of the world, but that one name which makes my heart melt is 'Melbourne' ;)

Knowing that delightful Melbourne is titled as World's Most Livable City by the Economist Group, publishers of "The Economist" magazine, I could not resist my temptation to explore some enchanting specialties of Melbourne and loved watching exclusive video clips here. Each of these clips have been a visual treat to my eyes... like this cute one..

I thought of writing about some mesmerizing reasons that can justify the award :) You might be thinking that how can it be possible for someone talking high of Melbourne and not mentioning MCG ;) Yes, Yes!! I'm not so forgetful ... the world-famous Melbourne Cricket Ground where cheering up our favourite sportsperson live can be a dream come true for every cricket lover.  The MCG sports stadium located in Yarra Park is the witness of glorious history ever in world of Cricket. At this moment, I'm marking my 2015 calender for the day that will thrill every sporty spirit in me ... Actually I envy those who will be fortunate enough to occupy a seat to watch Final match of World Cup 2015 being hosted at MCG and icing on the cake would be if 'India' creates history by winning at Australian ground ;)

Walking through the lanes of Melbourne city can be no less than a picturesque ordeal for anyone... The city walls contribute largely to its vibrant urban culture with its unique expressions of art displayed throughout the city... I bet one can never bother solitude taking a walk all alone and would just smile n admire the spectacular work all around. Infact if I were there, I know I won't be able to stop myself clicking pics after every few steps ;)

The Royal Exhibition Building brought laurels being listed as the first Australian building to be nominated in World Heritage listing which at present is the rarest surviving monument of city and is continues to be used as a general exhibition hall. The gorgeously lively Carlton garden spells the beauty of the building since ages.

The one thing that I can never miss on my trip to Melbourne is a ride on Free Tourist Tram :P

The cute maroon City Circle Tram is free "hop-in-hop-off" service that operates on a circular route taking you via major tourist attractions in clockwise and anti-clockwise directions. How exciting it would be to travel around the city without worrying of ticket inspectors :P

Ah, I can't end without talking about my most fav topic i.e food... Melbourne restaurants, cafes, bistros and bars are diners' paradise. No surprise if you find Melbourne bustling in the months of Feb-March, when the city hosts its popular Food n Wine Festival. Infact the dates for this year's grand feast have already come up. You can have the foodie fun from Friday 27 February, 2015 to Sunday 15 March 2015 with world's great cuisines...
 
To add up your knowledge of Melbourne extravaganza, here is your comprehensive guide.

Contest Time 
Now, for all my lovely readers who enjoyed reading this post, there is a golden chance to win a voucher of Rs 500 (being given by Indiblogger and Tourism Victoria after the result declaration)just by answering a simple question in comments section below..

Click on the link of these places and tell where would you want to visit in Melbourne and why?" (the best answer will be selected as winner. Click here for details.) Last Date to answer: 5 Jan, 2015
Results will be declared on my blog, so keep a track by following via GFC n subscribing by email ... 

This post is written for Melbourne–The Most Livable City in the World contest by Indiblogger in association with Tourism Victoria.

The contest has ended and the winner is Bhawna. 

Congratulations Bhawna!! Do message me your email id so that I may forward the same to the sponsors and you may expect your voucher in next few days.