Travel
Manali: The Perfect Weekend Getaway
Which is your favourite winter destination? And snowfall in Manali is like an icing on the cake, where tourists have myriad opportunities to play with snow. If you are planning the trip to this splendid destination in winters, then you will fall in love with snow-laden mountains that turn into splendid ski slopes and zones of several snow sports. Traverse through the snow-laden lanes from December to March.
Isn’t Manali your favourite vacation spot during winters? As this quaint town transforms into a white marvel during winters. No wonder, the pleasing hill town is Bollywood’s current muse! So, Manali makes the town a much-preferred destination where beauty meets adventure and events.
1.Snowboarding in Manali
After floating on smooth snow, are you ready to take up a more skilful sport? If your answer is yes, snowboarding in Manali, is for you. Unlike skiing, snowboarding has a more freestyle angle. As the name suggests in ‘snowboarding’, a board is attached to your feet and a gentle push takes you floating down thick sheets of ice in no time. Indulge in adrenaline-charged jumps and splashy landings.
Don’t worry, proficient snowboarders guide you its finer features in the foothills of Rohtang Pass. You will certainly enjoy the curves and slopes of the snow-clad mountains. You can trust us on this, experience it once and you would want to go for it time and again.
2.Skiing in Manali:
Covered with snow coating and milky white mountain peaks around, Solang Valley, Marhi, Gulaba, Rohtang, and Dhundi are perfect for skiing reverie. Experts will accompany you while skiing to ensure your safety.
Cross-country skiing during snowfall is also famous in Kullu Manali. The icy views are incredible. If you are a skiing pro, please don’t miss out on National level skiing competitions.
3.Skiing Zones with Heli-Skiing
Do you want to push the limits of skiing to an all-new level? Try Heli skiing during the snowfall in Manali. A sport of pros, it is practised in vast icy terrains that are isolated.
These heli-skiing expeditions drop you onto high peaks. The unparalleled regions to enjoy this sport near Manali include Deo Tibba, Rohtang Pass, Hanuman Tibba, and Chanderkhani Pass.
So, are you all set to glide?
4.Sledging down the Slopes
Relish sledging this season in the peak snowfall season. Although a fleet of reindeers will not aid you, yet the magnitude of the experience will take over you. Be seated in a wooden sledge to race down the snow-capped Himalayas.
Enjoy a scenic trip along a groomed trail. Keep adjusting to fun-filled twists and turns. So, get ready to sledge down in Solang Valley and Rohtang – your playgrounds!
5.Gondola Rides
Ever wondered, what being on cloud 9 means? Go for cable car riding. Enjoy the adrenaline ride in Solang Valley, where you are taken above the mountain peaks, laden with snow. Relish the spectacular scenery around which is a heavenly experience in itself. So, be prepared to indulge in mesmeric views from your cable car when snowfall starts in Manali.
6.Manali Winter Carnival
Are you visiting Manali in February? Don’t miss out on Manali Winter Carnival, a festival that presents a beautiful amalgamation of rich Himachali culture and snow sports. Come in winters and relish this remarkable Winter Festival.
You will get to enjoy food fests, folk dances, street plays, and music competition here. Participants from various parts of the country flock to Manali to partake in various competitions. Another major attraction of this carnival is the beauty contest.
7.Himalayan Heights with Ice Climbing
Do you want to climb frozen waterfalls? It is the perfect spot to help you dig deep into the frozen world of the nation with ice climbing, one of the much-loved snow activities in Manali.
Cover the mountains here that have an extremely thick coat of snow. Ready for an ice climbing challenge? Opt for Kullu and boast about your daring snow activity among your friends.
8.Ice Skating
For those who are the skating lovers, the sport has an icy angle to it – Ice skating. Much like roller skating, the surface of ice skates is covered by a snow sheet. Just Skate on the snow or steer off freezing winds for an unparalleled experience. Numerous skaters flock to Rohtang Pass, the favourite ice skating spot near Manali to enjoy this priceless sport.
9. Enjoy the scenic beauty at Marhi
Time to relish some scenic beauty at Marhi. Perched between Manali and Rohtang Pass, this is a picturesque destination to relish during the snowfall month in Manali. Its cleaner snowfield makes it a favourite for love birds. Thanks to the snowcapped mountains, this place offers some mesmeric views. When Rohtang Pass is closed because of unfavourable weather conditions, you can visit this heavenly destination to add to your vacationing.
Thus, to enjoy full-fledged snowfall, head to this splendid destination. But before indulging in snow play, hire suitable snow wear from vendors in areas like Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley. Make sure that you have had a delightful time before winter folds its snowy spread. Delight in scenic and sports splendour and fall in love with Manali even more. Have you already started planning your vacation?
There is a wide range of options and activities and the list is even longer during peak wintertime. You can spend several days here and still not be satiated with it. The mountains all around are covered under a thick sheet of snow become a haven for the eyes. When one talks about the family vacation, This once a small hamlet is now usually among the preferred choices.
Even for a quick weekend getaway with friends and family. Manali is a great place to go to. If you are planning to visit Manali in winters; then mentioned above is all that you can indulge yourself in and make the best out of your trip. Manali is also accessible throughout the year. The road is also quite smooth and never gets too rough which makes it a perfect place to bring your family for fun. Another added benefit is of great accommodation.
Do Read This One Too:All about Udaipur
From the snow-covered Himalayas to hot desert of Thar, historical buildings to cherish past to modern parks conserving biodiversity, India is a land of diversity which makes it Incredible India. Incredible India is full of top holiday destinations for travellers. However, this year came out as a disappointment for travellers but it is always safe to travel virtually and look for a wonderful holiday destination for your future trip. Let us have a look some of the top holiday destinations within India which you can finalize for your future trips.
Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan or better known as the Pink City is one of the favourite holiday destinations of the tourists. Jaipur, the city of Rajputana present exquisite views of Rajputana Architecture along with the modern outlook of the city. Jaipur, being the heart of Rajasthan is the perfect place if you are looking forward to exploring the Rajasthani culture. The notable heritage sites at Jaipur are Hawa Mahal, Patrika Gate and Amber Fort. Other notable sites are City Palace museum which is the current residence of the royal family as well and Albert museum. The best time to visit Jaipur is between September to February as the summers in Jaipur are unbearable.
Agra and Fatehpur Sikri
Agra and Fatehpur Sikri are two cities in Uttar Pradesh but the fact the distance between the locations is quite less, a single trip can easily cover both. Agra is famous for Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Along with Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah are notable sites. Fatehpur Sikri is a city laid by Akbar. It is famous for Jodha Palace, Panch Mahal, Anup Talao, Birbal Palace, Buland Darwaza, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, etc. The most famous building is the tomb of Salim Chishti. The Mughal architecture is said to reach its zenith during the reign of Shahjahan which is quite evident by the architecture of Taj Mahal. The best time to visit Agra is from September to February as the summers of Uttar Pradesh are unbearable.
Manali
Manali is a beautiful city for adventurous travellers. It is hill-station in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh. Manali is mostly visited by tourists during the winter season. The snowfall is the main attraction of the town. The Solang Valley is especially famous for snowfall. The tourists are taken up to a certain height in Solang Valley so that they can enjoy the snow. The other notable site in the town is Vashishtha Temple which is quite famous for its hot-water springs. The Hidimba Devi Temple is also an ancient temple that you must not miss. The adventurous travellers must be happy to visit this town as the route from Kullu to Manali is full of Rafting sites and paragliding sites. The best time to visit Manali is from December to March if you are looking for snow. You must not visit the town during monsoon as rafting during monsoon might be very dangerous.
Varanasi
Varanasi is the land of God. It is situated on the banks of Ganga. The city is quite famous for its temples. The pious city has several beautiful sites which must be visited. The notable sites are Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Deshashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Ramnagar Fort and Assi Ghat. Varanashi, also known as Kashi is also famous for Dev Deepawali which is celebrated with great pomp and show. The city is famous for Ganga aarti at the Ghats. The Ganga Arti is a daily ritual which Is attended by devotees, locals and visitors in a large number.
Kolkata
Kolkata is situated on the bank of river Hoogly. It is a beautiful town which is also the capital of West Bengal. Kolkata symbolises Bengali culture. Bengal was first to show signs of a renaissance in India which is quite evident if you visit Kolkata. Kolkata island of the intermingling of British architecture and Bengali heritage. The notable sites to visit in Kolkata are Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshinshwar Kali Temple, Science City Kolkata and Kalighata. The Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge are the historical buildings of the British era.
These places are the top choices to visit virtually this season and then make them your choice for your next trip.
Goa Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar has told the press that the state will have to re-invent its tourism profile and return to the 1960s to rebuild itself as a tourism destination.
The minister also said that tourists who are into drugs, cook on the roads, or are an inconvenience on the beaches, are not wanted in Goa. Only tourists who are wealthy and can honour Goa’s culture and beauty are desirable.
The hippie community put Goa on the international tourism map in the 1960s. By and by, Goa’s reputation is one of the best tourism destinations in India reached its climax after 2007 due to the introduction of liberal licensing in casinos. However, the state infrastructure just could not grow with the growing number of tourists every year.
Ajgaonkar said that Goa’s tourism industry has to start again from zero to reach the desired level with the help of state-state level travel. However, this would only be possible when a cure is invented to counter COVID-19.
Ajgaonkar also said that wealthy tourists will be given preference over budget and local tourists. The idea behind taking such measures is to bring about the Goa of the 1960s, when it was beautiful. In comparison, Goa as we see today, is more crowded with millions of tourists visiting each year.
Goa, a state which is heavily dependent on tourism, is gearing up for the new normal wherein visitors will be allowed but selectively. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant was quoted saying,
“After Lockdown 3, movement along inter-state routes via bus and train as well as by flights should be allowed, but with restrictions, especially because Goa, a COVID-free green zone is flanked on both sides by Karnataka and Maharashtra, with a high incidence of cases.”
He further added, “What we are trying to do along with experts, is to take Goa back to the 1960s. We do not want tourists who consume drugs, cook on our roads, or who create nuisance on beaches. We want good tourists who are wealthy and who can appreciate Goa and its culture.”
According to The Times of India, Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar reiterated the sentiment and The Statesman quoted him saying, “We have to recreate the Goa of the 1960s to kickstart our tourism again. In the 1960s, Goa was beautiful and now in 2020 it is very different with more than 8 million visiting tourists.”
When you live in India, you kinda sorta just get used to politicians making silly (read: borderline offensive) comments. Arre woh kuch bhi bolta hai, is the automatic response I usually get from people and one, I’m also guilty of uttering.
Well, time to add another one to that list – Goa’s Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar.
On 1 May, Goa, as you may have heard, declared zero COVID-19 cases. Unfortunately, Goa’s Green Zone status is currently under threat as seven fresh COVID-19 positive cases were detected on 14 May.
But let’s take a moment to focus on what Mr Ajgaonkar did soon after Goa was declared COVID-free. According to the news agency IANS, Ajgaonkar said:
“We want good tourists who are wealthy and who can appreciate Goa and its culture.”So, Mr Ajgaonkar wants to kickstart Goa’s tourism economy (okay, fair enough!) BUT he only wants the help of “wealthy” tourists because apparently they are the only ones capable enough to appreciate Goa’s culture?!
Now that one statement of his is problematic on so many levels.
Firstly – what is a “wealthy” tourist and how exactly do you plan on defining it?
Are you saying that anyone who can’t afford to spend 5 nights at Taj Fort Aguada does not deserve the opportunity to vacation in Goa?Moreover, the idea that somehow only “wealthy” tourists can “appreciate” Goa’s culture is also extremely classist.
Goa’s culture belongs to all its people – regardless of their socio-economic strata – and Manohar Ajkgaonkar is NO ONE to discriminate.
2020 Is Here! Are you already planning your honeymoon destinations?
Well, we have you sorted with our curation of the best honeymoon destinations in India.
What’s better than going to the party capital of the country to celebrate the new year with a bang. From the bohemian beach parties to rocking nightclub events, there is no dearth of exciting ways to welcome the new year! Being one of the best honeymoon destinations in India, Goa surely ranks number 1 at the top of the list, without any shadows of doubt. Be it the beaches, hills, resorts, cruises, or bars, Goa is the answer to everything. It is one of the most happening honeymoon destinations in India
-One of the best new year destinations in India, Ooty is also one of those destinations that one should definitely visit if you are seeking to welcome the new year in the peace and away from the overcrowded destinations. With calmness and tranquillity encircling the atmosphere of this serene destination, Ooty is a place like no other place. For those who are wishing to just enjoy their new year with special people and avoid the loudness, heading to Ooty would definitely turn out to be a great idea. If you are looking for the options for new year trips in India, then this could be the one.
3.Pushkar
Known for its sandy surroundings and proud camels, Pushkar is also one of the most offbeat places to visit for new year in India. From forts and the shopping spaces to camel safaris and delicacies, Pushkar is one such destination in Rajasthan that has plenty of fun-filled experiences to offer. This quaint, little town in Ajmer is a destination like no other. Pushkar gives travelers an opportunity to witness a fine blend between the royal lifestyle and countryside vibes of the locals along with some great parties to celebrate the New Year. It is indeed also one of the best places to celebrate the new year in India.
From biking on the beaches to reveling on the rooftop cafes, the range of things to do in Pondicherry make it a dreamy land. The Riviera of the East has the French colonial style buildings and refinement separated from the boomtown India. And don’t fret over the expenses. The erstwhile French capital is one of the budget places to visit in New Year in India and is enough for a wonderful New Year in Puducherry.
What makes Pondicherry being one of the best places to celebrate the new year in India is its tranquility and peace.
5.Diu
Get ready for activities like paragliding, surfing, diving, parasailing, and windsurfing in one of the budget destinations in India to party on New Year Eve 2020. Lay all over the golden sands of the Diu island and dive into the pristine waters of the Nagoa beach. Diu offers you the adventure you can think of at absolutely affordable prices. All the crazy vibes makes it the best place for the new year in India.
6.Lakshwadeep
Deep sea diving, exploring coral reefs, kayaking, and yacht sailing are the perfect activities for a New Year trip 2020. Aren’t they? And the Lakshadweep group of the islands is among the best places to visit in India for New Year celebrations 2020. If the big lagoons doesn’t, the dance forms of the Kolkali & Parichakali will surely touch the chords of your heart. And that’s not all.The New year in Lakshadweep is perfect to enjoy the vibe and enjoy 2020 with a bash.
7.Malital
The alluring view of the lake and a candlelight dinner on the shore makes it a visit to Bhimtal perfect for the celebrations of the New Year 2020. You will get to enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped hills of Malital or take a tour of all the famous museums as you travel to this beautiful destination. And we suggest you to also stay alert for you may come across hidden stories or secrets that localities have kept to themselves.
Read More: The Perfect Weekend Getaway
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As soon as the Monsoon vibes knock on our door, people want to cherish the weather with a perfect cup of steaming coffee or tea. The holiday season comes along with Monsoon and thus, people start planning vacations. But not everyone needs to go abroad for a perfect holiday. India has some amazing cities you can choose for your trip. Udaipur becomes all the more beautiful in the month of rain.
Unlike most of the cities, Udaipur during monsoon season feels pleasant and relatively less humid. The temperature remains around 33 to 23 degrees, which is bearable. Monsoon season in this city starts in July and lasts up to September.
There are a number of sites and places you can visit in Monsoon during your stay. Let’s check out why Udaipur is a perfect holiday destination in Monsoon.
Udaipur is a perfect holiday destination in Monsoon
1. Monsoon Palace
Known in the past as Sajjan Garh Palace, is the most beautiful place to visit in Monsoon time. Udaipur is considered as a city of palaces and rulers. It is located on a hilltop, around 3100 feet above the sea level, and offers stunning views of the Fateh Sagar Lake and the city of Udaipur. The place is open for visitors from 9:00 am in the morning to 8:30 in the evening.
Location: 11monsoon colony, Sajjan Garh Rd, Near MewarGarh hotel, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
2. Bagore Ki Haveli
This palace is quite an attractive destination among tourists. Built-in the 18th century, this old masterpiece is a standing wonder to the architectural finesse of the people of Mewar. Built on the edge of Lake Pichola, makes the appearance of this palace makes absolutely stunning. Monsoon beauty brings a fresh feel and is a must-visit in monsoon.
Location: Gangaur Ghat Marg, Hotel Gangaur Palace, Silawat Wadi, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
3. Lake Pichola
Lake Pichola is one of the most popular places among tourists. Boating Seems like a good idea in monsoon. Monsoon brings flow to the main lake of the city of lakes, it is an experience worth investing your time and money in. Placed by City Palace, Jag Mandir, Taj Hotel, and hills in the backdrop, Lake Pichola offers a boat ride like no place else.
Location: Lake Palace Road | Outside Chandpole, Near Hanuman Ghat, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
4. Udaipur City Palace
This palace is believed as one of the most iconic places in Udaipur. It depicts the true beauty that was once associated with this capital city. Built by Maharana Udai Singh Ji, the palace is situated on Lake Pichhola’s borders. You can experience the true beauty of impressive huge courtyards and unbelievable glassworks. The view from this monsoon spot in Udaipur takes on an enhanced vision during the rains. This place has to be your number 1 in the list, in order to experience the breathtaking blend of Rajasthani and Mughal interiors.
Location: Old City, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
5. Fateh Sagar Lake
The view of this lake during monsoon is a sight to cherish forever. It is surrounded by the exquisite colorful art of Udaipur and over the top market places. Fateh Sagar Lake is one of the most beautiful artificial lakes in our country. The Lake also witnesses the grand festival of Hariyali Amavasya Mela in the Shravan months of August-September, that is the monsoon season. Surrounded by beautiful small hills, this destination is not worth missing.
Thus, make your monsoon holidays worth every penny and time and visit Udaipur this rainy season.
Monsoon is coming and so are the beautiful days. Monsoon is the best time to enjoy your vacation and get a new touring experience. Let’s watch the list of places you must go this monsoon –
List of places you can visit during Monsoon
Coorg (Karnataka)
Coorg is one of the most beautiful monsoon destinations you can go for. It is not just one of the most beautiful hill stations of Karnataka, but also India. The place is blessed with gorgeous natural scenery with vast coffee plantation. The two waterfalls, The Abbey and Jog waterfalls are just mesmerizing. They are most attractive during the rains. Also, the peak of Tadiandamol is a well-known place for adventure lovers. They go on a trek here to enjoy its wonderful scenery over the top. Bylekuppe, Madikeri Fort and other sights are also famous and worth visiting.
Coorg in Karnataka is 5 hours and approx 270 km away from Bangalore city via road. The closest airport from Coorg is in Bangalore city and nearest railway station is in Mysore.
Munnar (Kerala)
This hill station is one of the must-visit monsoon destinations in India. Rains add a whole new vibe to the already beautiful hills of Western Ghats. The place is a home for green tea plantations. Mist cover the mountain tops, the seasonal waterfalls provide an amazing view to the tourists. Munnar is truly a paradise in Kerala. The best thing about a monsoon vacation in Munnar is that it is crowd-free and hotels and resorts offer great discounts. Go plan your vacation to Munnar this Monsoon, it will be undoubtedly memorable.
Munnar is 3 hours 40 minutes and approx 130 km away from Cochin via road. The closest airport is Cochin and the nearest railway station is Aluva. You can opt to reach Munnar by driving from Cochin as the journey is quite scenic in monsoon.
Shillong (Meghalaya)
This place is listed at the top among the best places to visit in India during monsoon. Shillong is known for its captivating beauty. The rainy weather in monsoon increases the magic of the place and attracts tourists. If you don’t mind getting drenched, this place is perfect for you. This hilly town has an amazing view with misty clouds, lush green environment, and beautiful waterfalls. The stunning Elephant Falls and the Spread Eagle Falls are the must visit place in the rainy season. Both of these waterfalls fed by rains make them an attractive sight. The joyful feel of the town relaxes your mind and body.
The nearest airport and railway station are in Guwahati (Assam), at a distance of approx 150 km from Shillong. Broad is the best way to reach to this hill station in monsoon.
Udaipur (Rajasthan)
Popularly known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is one of the best places to visit in India during monsoon. Though it receives usually low rainfalls in the country, but it offers a beautiful sight to visit. Udaipur has a pleasant climate and is snuggled in the lap of the Aravali hills. It is also titled as one of the ‘most romantic destinations in India’, you imagine the romance here during the rains. Famous Monsoon Palace and Sajjan Garh offer a panoramic view of the city. The morning view of Fateh Sagar lake and the night view of Ambrai ghat are just mesmerizing. Go on a boat ride in the beautiful lakes and enjoy the amazing scenery.
You can reach Udaipur by air, rail, and road. The nearest railway station is in Udaipur and the domestic airport has a connection with major big cities of India.
Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)
Kodaikanal is a city located in the hilly Dindigul district in Tamil Nadu. It’s a gift to us as its name says “The Gift of the Forests “.It offers a refreshing vacation during monsoon. Dolphin Nose, Kurunji Andavar Temple, Pambhar Falls, Pillar Rocks, etc are trekking destination that you’ll love to go. The waterfalls of Kodaikanal are a sight worth visiting during the rains. The city is popularly known as “Princess of Hill Stations”.Its a beautiful scenic view attracts the visitors from the entire country.
Madurai is the nearest airport (approx 120 km away) from Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal Road is the closest railway station,55 km away. Kodaikanal is also easily reachable by road.
So, the list ends here. Hope you like this article and you get to know beautiful places to visit this monsoon.
