Five Tips on train travel in India

Traveling on India’s railway system is one of the cheapest, most authentic, and, with the right advice, one of the most enjoyable ways to see this majestic country.  India’s railway is the fourth largest in the world and arguably larger when you consider the amount of passenger travel (between 18 and 25 million people daily) that it ferries throughout the country.   Traveling by train in India gives you a window into the daily life of Indian families who you will travel alongside on your journey.  Much like the rest of this frenetic, chaotic, beautiful, and sometimes baffling country, it is important to be knowledgeable and prepared for the journey.  Check out these tips on five aspects of train travel to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Great-Indian-Railway-Engine

1. Booking your ticket

Booking online.  

The most surefire and hassle-free way to secure your train ticket is to book online as far in advance as possible.  Tickets go on sale online 90 days before a train’s departure date.  If you book far enough in advance through online sites such as:  www.irctc.co.in, you can rest assured knowing you will get on the specific train you want on the specific date.  Yatra.com asks for local information such as address, which may complicate reservations for those with a foreign credit card. Cleartrip.com  does not.

In case of cancellation, fees are minimal (from 20 – 70 RS, depending on advanced notice, train distance etc.) and if booked online, money will be refunded to your card.  Note that you should always cancel more than 24 hours in advance to avoid being charged a high percentage of the ticket price.

Booking at the station

Depending on the season, the amount of time before a trip, and the flexibility of travel dates, you can always go down to the station and book your ticket.  Generally, I find it is much easier to deal with online booking websites and the fluent English telephone support that they offer, rather than struggling to understand railway clerks whose English may be sub-par.  It is quite an experience; however, worth trying at least once, to throw yourself in with the fray of people who generally rush the ticket counter to book trains at the station.

Indian-Railway-Station

What are RAC and waitlisted tickets? 

Tickets can sell out fast online, but this does not mean you won’t be able to travel on your desired date because cancellations are common. For precisely this reason, the Indian Railways sells tickets in three categories – confirmed ticket, RAC waitlist, and waitlist. If searching online, you will see one of these ticket categories come up next to the results.  If you do not see any confirmed tickets available on the train you want, never fear. The RAC (reservation against cancellation) waitlist guarantees that you get on the train.

Waitlist tickets are not guaranteed boarding but generally low numbers are moved up to RAC status.  If you do not get on the train because your waitlist number is too high, your money is refunded.

2. Choosing your class

There are five different classes on most Indian trains.  The class hierarchy of the trains mirrors the juxtaposition of classes that you will see in the rest of India.  All different sectors of the population travel in the same vehicle within feet of one another with comforts ranging from non-existent to luxurious.  The main differences found between the different classes both on and off the train fall into three different categories: personal space, temperature, and food preparation.

Second Class

Second class is the cheapest class where the rules that govern other classes of the train do not apply.  The cars are packed with as many people as can fit, and seats are not assigned but rather snatched on a first-come first-serve basis.  For longer, overnight journeys there is no berth to pull down to sleep horizontally, you must sleep sitting upright in a seat (if you are lucky enough to get one).  In this class you can expect your personal space will be compromised by people leaning on your seat, shoving parcels under your feet, and pushing in as tight as is necessary.  These factors will contribute to the heat of the non-AC car, and you should be cautious about the food sold by vendors as it may be prepared for the stronger stomachs of locals rather than tourists.

General-Bogi-in-Indian-Train

Sleeper Class

Sleeper class allows you to experience the minimal comforts necessary over a long journey, such as stretching out on a berth overnight, while it does not isolate you from the rest of the train.  The vast majority of cars on a typical Indian train are labeled sleeper, which will ensure that you are traveling the way most people do throughout India. Traffic of vendors and people is minimal between AC cars and non-AC, while it is more free-flowing between second class and sleeper.  Here you can sit back and watch the microcosm of India unfold before your eyes.  You may chat with some younger students, have a mimed conversation with an old granny, and smile and wave warmly to a fascinated child.

In this class seats and berths are assigned to the six passengers traveling together in a car.  Sleeper class does not have AC.  However, since there are fewer people in each compartment and the train is moving, the breeze can be enough to cool off the passengers.  Food is typically sold by vendors who travel between trains  – you alone know what your stomach can handle, but it is probably good to continue to exercise caution to avoid getting sick in the heavily used train restrooms.

AC Tiers 1 – 3

Want privacy in India? Then you are going to have to pay for it. This is what AC symbolizes.  AC tiers can be lumped together by imagining varying degrees of segregation and some service comforts (such as complimentary bed rolls) on a sliding scale going up from the lowest, 3rd tier, to the highest, 1st tier.These cars also tend to be segregated from the rest of the bustle of the train with first class being the most private and third being the least.  You will find food similar to the rest of the train with perhaps more variety offered in the highest classes. It depends on the train, but if a meal is served, the train will ask for your preference (vegetarian or non-veg) when you book your ticket online.

3. Keeping yourself and your stuff safe

Unless you are traveling on the Palace on Wheels or another segregated luxury train, it is important to consider your security first off.  Violent incidents are rare but petty theft can be a major hassle of train travel in India.

Get a lock for luggage

It is very easy and usually cheap to find a padlock and chain to secure a backpack to the foot of a bed in a sleeper compartment. If your bag is chained to the train, you can rest easy knowing that no one will make off with your luggage in the middle of the night!  Not only should you padlock the entire bag to a bolted down surface, but you should get small locks to secure any zippers closed so that no one can rummage through your things.

Inside-Indian-Train

Keep your most important items with you and out of sight at all times

It may be wise to get a money belt or a little pouch to keep on you with money, credit cards, passport etc.  You can even sleep with your most valuable items stashed in your pillow.  While a lock on backpack zippers should ensure that your belongings are safe, there are instances of luggage being cut open.  It is better to keep your most valuable possessions close to your person while sleeping on an overnight train.

Do not be overly worried about security

You may hear horror stories about train travel or feel uneasy at the initial shock of traveling in an open-compartment and sleeping amongst strangers, but do not let this get to you. One of the activities I enjoyed the most was traveling between the cars and looking out the open windows. While this may not be the safest way to see the sights along the way, I felt comfortable and did not let the warnings of overly cautious and meddlesome travelers discourage me from taking in the sights I wanted to see.

4. Packing for a smooth trip

One of the pleasures of train travel is reaching your destination in real time, passing through the villages along the way, stopping at small town railway outposts, and watching out the window as the terrain morphs from lush green jungle to sandy, arid desert.   Train travel allows you to appreciate the real length of a journey as you wind through the vast countryside that separates your destination from the starting point.  That being said, you can only look out the window for so long without going crazy from boredom.

Coolie-at-Railway-Platform

Be prepared for the long hours en route with a number of distractions to pass the time. Some useful items to carry along are: cards, a book, a journal, a camera, or a book on learning Hindi (you will probably get a free tutorial from the person sitting next to you).  In addition, some must-have items for convenience sake are: toilet paper and tissue, hand sanitizer, a fork and bowl, water bottle, snack/energy bars, sheet/sarong for sleeping in berth, and a generous supply of pain-killers and Pepto-Bismol, just in case.

5. Where to go

No journey is too far or too long for the Indian Railway system.  For this reason, you may even decide to plan your destinations around some of the most famous train routes.  The country’s longest route runs from the southern-most tip, Kanyakumari, all the way North to Jammu Tawi, in the state of Kashmir.  Crossing the country from the southeast coast to the southwest coast with the famous lush green beach state of Goa as a destination, allows you to experience the laid back South.   Passing through the Thar desert in Rajasthan along the route of the Delhi – Jaisalmer Express should not be missed by travelers in the North. Mumbai to Goa is one of the most popular tourist lines, and you can see the terrain change drastically while you travel north from Goa to Delhi.

Taj-Mahal-Agra-India

My most memorable moment traveling in India was waking up to the whistle on a Delhi bound train at 4:30 am and realizing we were nearing Agra.  I decided to collect my things and hop off early to catch sight of the Taj Mahal as soon as it opened at 6:00AM.  The photos from that visit are a rare relic from a sight that is impressive even when it is swarmed with thousands of tourists, and captivating when it is taken in practically alone, in its silent, empty beauty.  The choices are endless.  The decision is up to you where you will board and where this feat of human engineering will take you.

The Mumbai Food Joints

Curry isn’t one particular dish, contrary to what the Indian Restaurant in your city may tell you. There are literally hundreds of types of curries that have no similarity to each other whatsoever. India is several countries within a country, culturally speaking, and with that comes a melting pot of several cuisines, variations, and fusions. And that’s what the cuisine of Mumbai is. Food is everything to the Mumbaikar. From socializing, to festivals to even journeys, our days just revolve around food. Just like anything Mumbai offers, even the food can be a sensory overload. You just don’t know where to begin. So here’s a list of the top Mumbai foods that you simply must sample to say you’ve truly tasted Mumbai with more than just a spoon. You might want to put on a bib before you continue reading!

1. Chaat

The essential street food, you’re sure to find a chaat (the chaa is pronounced as it is in char and not chat) seller with his wheeled stall, carrying his wares on a single stool, or with a strapped on tray standing at every street corner. Chaat is a collection of snacks made from fried small puris (like a tiny deep fried, puffed tortilla), mashed potatoes, raw onions, tomato, coriander, mint chutney, tamarind chutney, and a few spice powders. It’s fresh and a favorite on-the-go snack.

Mumbai-Chaat

• Paani Puri: Hollow fried puris, stuffed with mashed potatoes, boiled lentils, and a spicy mint water. Stand at the stall and hold out the small bowl he gives you, and have them one by one, as he serves them up. (A plate usually comprises 6 pieces) Pop an entire one into your mouth in one go, and enjoy the crunch of the puri as your mouth fills with a gush of spicy water.
• Sev Puri: A flat fried puri (like a savory biscuit) topped with little mountains of boiled lentils, mashed potatoes, chopped onions, tomatoes, and topped with a sprinkling of sev, mint chutney, tamarind chutney, spices, and coriander leaves. Again, pop them in your mouth whole.
• Bhel Puri: A plateful of puffed rice, mixed with tomatoes, chopped onions, peanuts, raw mango, sev, and the chutneys. A lip smacking dish, served in a large paper cone, with a puri for a spoon, gobble it up quickly before the paper disintegrates.

For a super safe hygienic restaurant experience: Swati Snacks, Trupti, Punjab Sweet House, Elco.  For an authentic roadside experience: Marine Drive Chowpatty or Juhu Chowpatty

2. Thaalis

“Atithi Devo Bhava” – an Indian saying that means the guest is a form of God. Treated like Gods you will be, especially when it comes to being served a Thaali. A Thaali is an all you can eat buffet that’s served to you right at your table. And nobody does it better than the Gujaratis and Rajasthanis. As the tagline of the most popular thali joint goes “We serve as long as you can eat.”

Rajasthani-Thaali-at-Golden-Star

These all you can eat joints serve you like you’re family, with love, insisting you eat more (even if you’re already full). Typically, you choose from one of the thali options ( a regular, or a special). The difference normally being dessert or pricier seasonal produce. And as you sit at your table, liveried, turban wearing men in charge of different courses keep coming and serving up to a variety of 3 amuse bouches, 4 kinds of breads, 4 vegetables, 2 lentils, 5 relishes, a couple of different kinds of crisps, 3 kinds of rice, 4 kinds of yogurt, and of course, large spoonfuls of clarified butter.

Golden Star Thali is undoubtedly the best. Others worth mentioning are Chetana, Shree Thakker Bhojanalay, and Friends Union Joshi Club.

3. Dhaabas

Originally the rustic highway restaurants in North India that catered to big eater truckers, Dhabas have developed their own cuisine that comprises hardcore meat and super hot spice. Normally open air restaurants with Tandoors (extra large coal barbeques) and low seating on bamboo cots, dhabas are where you go dressed down and eat with your hands. Enjoy wholesome Punjabi dishes like Makke di Roti (Flat cornbread), Sarson da Saag (Mustard leaves and lentils) Chicken Tandoori (which needs no introduction), and tall glasses of a heavy yogurt smoothie called Lassi.

Rajasthani-Thaali-at-Golden-Star

Experience this from the comfort of a nice restaurant that’s recreated the Dhaba theme at Papa Pancho’s or Pritam da Dhaba. Or step out of the city and visit a real one on the Western Express highway like Dara da Dhaba, but cover up and bring the mosquito repellant.

4. Irani Cafes

A fast disappearing breed of the most charming cafes Mumbai and Bombay has ever seen, Irani cafes are over 100 years old. What started as a way for immigrant Iranians to bond over tea turned into a great place for cheap eats. Most Irani joints are still stuck in time, and you’re sure to find old timers sitting at their usual tables. You’ll feel like time has stopped for you, too, when you sit on those vintage wood and cane chairs, propping your arm on those same glass topped tables that have been sitting there for years.

Irani-Cafe-Kyani-Co

By the speed at which the waiters work, you will have reason to believe they’ve been around just as long. Try the signature favorite: Bun Maska Chai – Buttered bread, dipped in immensely sweet Irani tea. Try Akuri – spicy scrambled eggs with freshly baked bread. Another great dish to try is the Kheema Pav – Spicy minced meat served with bread.

Visit the iconic centenarian Kyani & Co. or Good Luck.

5. Parsi Bhonu

Not to be confused with the Irani’s, the Parsis are the second batch of immigrants – Persians. There’s a nuance of a difference in the Bhonu (food), while the atmosphere and ambience at a Parsi restaurant is pretty much indistinguishable from that of an Irani Cafe. Fondly referred to as Bawas, the Parsis are a loud, eccentric, and friendly bunch, and if the owner’s at the cash desk as usual, he’s sure to chatter away with you.

Lagan-nu-Custard-at-Britannia-Co

The best Parsi dishes to try are Dhansak Rice ( a mutton-lentil curry), Patra ni Macchi (Banana leaf fish) and Lagan nu Custard (caramel custard!). Accompany these lip smacking eats with a bottle of Duke’s Raspberry Soda (strangely only available at Parsi joints and Parsi weddings).

Mumbai’s favourite Parsi restaurants are Jimmy Boy and Britannia & Co..

6. Mughlai

Mughlai is the delectable cuisine left behind by the Mughal empire in Hyderabad, Delhi, and Pakistan. The food is rich, meaty, elaborate, and flavored with an array of spices. The first dish to sample is the Mutton Biryani. A rich saffron and milk tinged rice cooked over a coal fire in gigantic pots with intense spices and large pieces of mutton. The lid is sealed shut with dough as it cooks, preserving the aroma that you can smell from a mile away. A sign of a good Biryani is when the meat falls of the bone, the bone is almost edible, and the spices and onion have caught to the bottom of the vessel till almost burnt. Other favorites include Haleem (A thick lentil soup where the beef has practically melted). An array of kebabs (small hors d’oeuvre sized pieces of meat) are a great starter to be eaten with mint chutney. The sweets, most of which are deep fried, are extra heavy with sugar syrup, rose water, spices, milk, and eggs. Try a small bite of the heart attack inducing Malpua.

Mutton-Kadhai-at-a-street-stall

The mecca for Mughlai cuisine is a pop-up food street that occurs during Ramazan every year at Mohammad Ali Road. But if you aren’t lucky enough to be in Mumbai then, schedule a meal at Lucky’s, Kareem’s, or Jaffer Bhai’s. You won’t be disappointed.

7. Coastal Cuisine

Mumbai’s coastal cuisine is actually three different types of cuisine from Mangalore, Goa, and  Maalwan. All three are distinctly varied, but have one commonality – fresh seafood. We love the Mangalorean Crab Gassi. A thick curry with crab in the shell that’s super messy, but equally delicious to eat. Try Appams – delicate crepes made with fermented rice flour. Goan food has undertones of Portuguese influence, an unmissable base of palm vinegar. The iconic Goa Pork Sausages (sausages pickled in a Vindaloo/ Sorpotel), Fried Fish in Rechad Masala, and Fish Curry Rice are all dishes to try at a Goan restaurant.

Fish-Thaali-and-Fish-fry-at-Highway-Gomantak

Up next is sadly the last thing you’ll find on any Mumbai food list, just because it’s been a pretty well kept secret. Originating from the Maalwan coast in Maharashtra  is another spicy kind of seafood, where the meal begins with a sour-spicy coconut milk based drink to prepare your stomach. Choose from light, moist, and crispy Fried Bombay Duck (that’s actually a fish) and Teesrya (Clams) or a dish that looks like scrambled eggs but is actually tiny nail sized prawns.

Our picks for the best Mangalorean food is Excellensea, best Goan at New Martins, and the best Maalwani at Highway Gomantak.

8. Udipis

Udipi cuisine, originating from Udipi in South India, is what we call Saatvik (Pure). No onions, no garlic, no meats, or seafood. The limited food groups make for some extremely innovative cuisine, and coming from a hardcore meat eater, I assure you, it tastes great! And you’ll always walk away feeling healthy. Try the Mysore Masala Dosa, rice flour crepes spread with a spicy chutney and then wrapped around spiced potatoes. You eat it with your hands, dipping little bits of it in a spicy sambar soup and some coconut chutney. Another dish worth tasting is the Idli Vada Sambar. Steamed buns and fried fritters made of fermented rice flour, dipped in sambar and chutney, is a breakfast staple for many.

Uthappam-and-Rava-Dosa-at-Shiv-Sagar

Head to Shetty’s on Grant Road, or try any outlet of the Shiv Sagar chain. For a slight variation in style, try the iconic Madras Cafe as well.

9. Indian Chinese

Chinese food available in India is almost unrecognizable to anyone who’s familiar with authentic chinese food. Mumbai has spiced it up and created all sorts of innovative fusion dishes right on the streets. You’re sure to pass by the brightly painted carts, woks ablaze, Chinese looking men who aren’t actually from China, whipping up never heard of dishes like Triple Schezwan, Chinese Bhel (crispy fried noodles in a spicy schezuan paste), and Chicken Lollipops (Scarlet coloured batter fried chicken legs), to name a few. Manchurian (Salty and Brown) and Szechuan (Spicy and Red) are the two primary flavors, and everything (from Chicken to Rice to Noodles) comes in those two flavors. I must warn you, it’s a heart attack on a plate, but innovative and lip-smacking nonetheless.

Chicken-Lollipops-at-Tea-Center

You’re sure to come across several stalls on the roads. Most of these stalls open as late at 8pm and operate up to 11 pm.

10. Indianized global chains

Picture this, you’re walking down the street in Mumbai, and you spot a logo. A familiar logo that instantly transports you home. You may never have thought much of it back home, but here, miles away, it’s familiar and comforting. Before you run into a McDonald’s or KFC, read on. Most Indian’s need their spice, and most Indian’s would never eat beef. Welcome to a beef-free McDonalds, where you’ll find Masala Tikka Wraps with lots of onion and Indian veggies. You’ll get chicken, you’ll get fish, but that’s about it. In short, all the global standard food has been tweaked for Indian consumers, and now even your Starbucks serves up an Indian Espresso Roast.

McDonalds

Try the Indian take on McDonald’s, KFC, Subway, Quiznos, Baskin Robbins, Pizza Hut, Starbucks etc

11. The global palate

Mumbaikars love their food, but they’ve started enjoying the food of others as well. And you can now find some pretty good international cuisines in Mumbai. So if you’re craving a nice gourmet experience or want a place to celebrate while on your travels, try one of these.

Hakkasan

Poco Loco for the Tapas, Salt Water Cafe for Carpaccio, Hakkasan or Yauatcha for Michelin Starred Chinese, Ziya for preplated Michelin Starred Indian, Indigo, Moshes, EscoBar or any of the restaurants at five star hotels.

A word of caution on Bombay belly

Now that I’ve tempted you to go get an upset tummy, let me tell you how not to let it get in the way of these amazing experiences. Avoid the water and try bottled drinks instead. In the cheaper joints, that also means you might want to avoid using the glasses and drink straight out of a bottle. Avoid it even if they say they have filtered water. Carry wet tissues to wipe your hands before eating. And don’t overdo it no matter how much your taste buds love it. Most restaurants serve a tummy cooler (a milk or yogurt based drink like sol kadi or chaas) to temper the spicy food.

Travel Tips- Train travel in India

Worried about how you'll eat or what the bathrooms will be like? The thought of being stuck on a long distance Indian Railways , sometimes for days at a time, can be quite alarming.

Here are some tips for train travel in India to make your trip on Indian Railways as enjoyable as possible.

Bhartiya-Rail

• Spend time looking out the windows or carriage door. The ever changing landscape provides a rare and hassle free view everyday life in India.

• If you're the talkative type, you won't have a shortage of people to chat to. Finding out as much information as possible about their traveling companions is the number one way that Indians pass the time on these train trips. By western standards, their questions can be quite intrusive. You should feel free to ask the same questions back. Your companions will be pleased you've taken an interest in them and you may receive some fascinating answers.

• If you have special dietary requirements, bring food with you. Meals are usually provided on board most long distance trains, however the food served by Indian Railways is hardly inspiring. Choices are limited (usually to biriyani and thali) and don't cater to Western tastes. Someone from the catering department will come and take your order in advance for these meals.

• Food and drink vendors will also make their way through the compartments, mostly in sleeper class but also in the air conditioned classes. Make sure you carry lots of small change for your purchases. It's possible to buy food on the platforms when the train stops, but don't count on a station arriving at mealtimes.

• Be prepared to go to bed early. Indians love to sleep when they have nothing better to do and most people will start retiring for the night around 9.30 p.m.

• If you're a light sleeper, bring some earplugs or headphones. There's guaranteed to be at least one loud snorer in each compartment. That adds up to around a dozen of them in each carriage!

• The busiest time in the bathrooms is in the morning between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., so either get up early or sleep late.

• There's not much difference in the standard of the toilets in the sleeper and air conditioned classes, however it's the cleanliness that sets them apart. The sleeper class toilets rapidly become filthy, while the toilets in the air conditioned classes manage to retain some sort of respectability.

• There are two toilets, shared by both males and females, and a washbasin at the end of each carriage. Some are western style sit down toilets, and the others squat toilets. If you can manage them, the squat toilets can often be the cleanest and most hygienic option.

• Bring anti-bacterial hand wipes and toilet paper. You'll find them both very handy to have.

• Don't leave your luggage unsecured or your valuables on display. Your traveling companions may be honest, but thieves sometimes enter the carriages at night. Bring a padlock and chain as you'll find facilities for fastening your luggage in your compartment.

You may want to buy famous Train at a Glance book to know more about Indian Railway while Traveling 

Famous-Train-at-a-Glance-Book

Things to do in Delhi

We want our visitors to get an authentic view of India, where the sights, smells, tastes and traditions of our diverse and incredible country are lived rather than observed.

So here we’ve put together our top twelve insider tips for getting the most out of the nation’s capital, Delhi.

The crucial – the places every Delhi visitor must experience

1 See the world’s tallest brick minaret

Symbolic and imposing, Qutub Minar is one of the first and finest examples of Indo-Islam architecture around. Don’t settle for viewing it across the city – get up close and marvel at the detail.

Qutub-Minar

2 Go inside an emperor’s tomb

Humayun lived the high life and fought a few wars, but it was reading that killed him. The 14th century royal died after falling down the steps of his library. The majestic resting place built for him is now a World Heritage Site and is highly recommended by visitors.

Humayun-tomb

3 Stroll around a spice market

Your senses will be spun in Khari Baoli, Delhi’s huge and frantic spice market. Try not to sneeze when your nose sucks up the powders of every known spice on earth.

Khari-Baoli-Spice-Market-Delhi

4 Picnic at India Gate

As well as being the largest war memorial in India, commemorating members of the British Indian Army who fought in WW1, Lutyen’s India Gate is Delhi’s top spot for a packed lunch, attracting thousands of people every weekend to relax on its surrounding lawns.

5 Be enlightened at the Lotus Temple

Architecture doesn’t come with more wow factor than this. It’s a little known fact the lotus-shaped Bahá’í House of Worship attracts more visitors than either the Eiffel Tower or the Taj Mahal. An awesome expressionist design that seems perfectly suited to the Bahá’í philosophy of spiritual unity.

The hip – things to do Delhi if you want to go native with the Delhiites

6 Get an intellectual fix

Overlooking the famous Lodhi Gardens (the 90 acre city park that’s definitely worth a wander) is Delhi’s favourite cultural hotspot, the India International Centre. The Rockefeller Foundation funds this large venue, which offers everything from theatre, dance and film to music and seminars.

India-International-Center-Delhi

7 Hang out in Chandni Chowk

With its burgeoning population, most of Delhi is a bustling and frenetic place. If the city maelstrom has a centrepoint, then it is surely Chandni Chowk, Delhi’s oldest street and legendary trading post. Stretching from the Red Fort to the Fatehpuri Masjid mosque, if you only eat one paranthe and ride one rickshaw, make sure you do it here.

Chandni-Chowk-Delhi

8 Coffee in Khan Market

The middle-classes of Delhi like to spend their rupees in the cool cafes and international chain stores of Khan Market, near Lodhi Gardens. Italian joint Big Chill, with its rich chocolate desserts, is a favourite with the city’s celebrities. It also has 14,000 fans on Facebook!

9 Watch a film in the Regal

Delhi has lived in the shadow of Mumbai when it comes to film, but cinema is still Delhi’s favourite pastime. And lately the city is becoming more fashionable in Bollywood, as a generation of Delhi-born directors and actors achieve success; Ashkay Kumar, star of 2009’s Bollywood-meets-kung-fu spectacular ‘Chandni Chowk to China’, is one such star. There are plenty of shiny multiplexes to choose from, but if you want something unrefined, see what’s showing at the faded Regal Theatre in Connaught Place, where Noel Coward once trod the boards.

Regal-cinema-Connaught-Place-New_Delhi

And the quirky…

10 Learn more than you need to know about toilets

You may never get a chance to visit another lavatory museum, so while you’re in Delhi, take the opportunity to investigate Sulabh International Toilet Museum. Here you’ll find a golden toilet, a toilet designed for elephants, and an array of pictures, stories and artefacts that will fill you with washroom wisdom.

11 Explore the Delhi metro

If you need to escape from the heat and hubbub, go underground for a while. Delhi’s clean and cool metro system is a world away from the streets above and is usually a stress-free way to get around. Even monkeys have been known to ride it.

Delhi-Metro-Station

12 See the Red Fort at night

Locals say that to visit Delhi and not see the Red Fort is like not visiting Delhi at all. But save a trip here until evening time, when the capital’s number one attraction stages a daily sound and light show. With the fort walls bathed in colour and with a vocal narration of Delhi’s history, it’s a dreamlike experience full of special effects that create a strong and haunting sense of bygone days.

Red-Fort-Delhi

Sightseeing in Gulmarg Kashmir Valley

Sightseeing in Gulmarg is all about marvelling at the picturesque scenery, visiting the scenic lake, or paying homage at the famous shrine of a Muslim saint.

Kongdoor-in-Gulmarg

Gulmarg is dotted with beautiful sites that will enthral you in its splendour. A Gondola ride (cable car ride) takes you up to Kongdori to enjoy the magnificent sights of the meadow from the top.

Khilanmarg is the spot for skiing in winters. You must enjoy the views of the Kashmir valley and the Himalayan range from Khilanmarg. It takes a couple of hours by pony, to reach Khilanmarg as it is slightly longer on foot.

Gulmarg-Ice-field-Kashmir

The Alpathar Lake, about 13 km from Gulmarg, is a scenic alpine lake that remains frozen until late June. From Khilanmarg the lake lies across the Apharwat peak. Adventure seekers must take the one-day trip to the Alpathar Lake from Gulmarg.

Also, while in Gulmarg don’t forget to pay your obedience at the famous Shrine of Baba Reshi, a Muslim saint.

Near By Places  in Gulmarg

Khilanmarg is the place near Gulmarg which is also the spot for skiing in winters and a picnic spot in all seasons. You must enjoy the views of the Kashmir valley and the Himalayan range from Khilanmarg. It takes a couple of hours by pony, to reach Khilanmarg as it is slightly longer on foot.

Gandola-Gulmarg-Kashmir

Visit the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve to witness a whole range of birds and wildlife, especially the musk deer.

Restaurants and eateries in Gulmarg

The restaurants and eateries in Gulmarg serve excellent vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. The food is not only delicious but also hygienic as well. ‘Rogan Josh’ – a traditional non-vegetarian dish, is a must try. For some mouth-watering vegetarian food, Bakshi’s Green Punjabi Dhaba is the best bet. Global Hotel and Restaurant, 200mtrs in the direction of the Gondola from the Bus Station is the place if you’re after some western food.

Horse-cart-ride-gulmarg

Other adventures in Gulmarg

Baba Reshi Shrine

Baba Reshi Shrine (Ziarat) was built and dedicated to the famous Muslim Scholar and Sage – Baba Reshi who breathed his last in Gulmarg in 1480.He was a prominent member of the court of Zain-ul-Abidin – a Kashmiri King of the early 15th Century. This shrine was built amidst a luxuriant garden and is a major tourist attraction apart from the visits from its devotees.

Shiva Temple

The Shiva Temple, also known as the ‘Rani Temple’ and ‘Maharani Temple’ is perched on a small hillock in the town square of Gulmarg and because of its vantage point; the Shiva Temple is visible from all parts of Gulmarg. For the last 17 years, the priestly duties in this Hindu temple have been performed by a single Muslim priest – Ghulam Mohammad Shiekh – epitomizing the communal harmony between Hindus and Muslims in the Kashmir Valley. The local and visiting communities have gracefully accepted a Muslim performing Hindu Temple rituals like puja, aarti and distributing Prasad among the devotees. And being a Muslim, he also performs Namaz every day.

St.Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is a Roman Catholic Church in Gulmarg and was constructed amidst Alpine trees atop a meadowy plateau. In the year 2003, the Church was renovated and on this occasion a special Mass was conducted at Christmas which incidentally happened to be after 14 years.

Banibali Nag Lake

Ferozepura Nallah is 5 kilometres from Gulmarg and Banibali Nag Lake is a couple of kilometres further from here.Banibali Nag Lake is set in the meadows and is surrounded by mountains at 9600 feet. This area is especially breezy so u can see the meadows swaying. And the lake reflects the mountains and the skies when still. It takes around 5 hours to get here from Gulmarg owing to the mountainous terrain.

Ferozepura Nallah – Mountain Stream

About 5 kilometres from Gulmarg is the Ferozepura Nallah – a fresh water stream that meanders its way from the mountains. This stone-studded stream is an ideal picnic spot and the trail that leads to this spot is even more interesting as it goes through the meadows and then the forest and then downhill to the stream. This route is the most ideal for nature photography.

GulMarg-Kashmir-Valley

Ningli Nallah – Mountain Stream

‘Ningli Nallah’ is a sparkling lively stream whichis 8 kms from Gulmarg. This is a perfect picnic spot and also a good spot for camping. All it takes is a couple of hours of trekking from Gulmarg and you would reach this amazing locale surrounded by small hills and flowery meadows with a cold stream trickling down effortlessly.Carry your coffee and book and camera and start very early at the break of dawn from Gulmarg. You could choose to explore this landscape for a few hours and then return to Gulmarg or head up further into other valleys and meadows of Kashmir. Else carry your camping gear from Gulmarg and pitch a tent for the night by the stream. It guarantees to help you relax and recharge.A highly recommended ‘TO-DO’ for honeymooners! Ningli Nallah offers you many more reasons than you can imagine for cuddling up in this cozy environment.

Gulmarg Golf Course

Perched at about 9000 feet altitude, Gulmarg Golf Course is one of the highest golf courses in the world.

Gulmarg-Golf-Course

Sightseeing in Pahalgam Kashmir valley

Shepherd’s village Pahalgam is visited by tourists and locals in huge number for its gradual lowering of temperature and river Ladder flowing at an approachable distance.  Traveling through meandering roads of north Kashmir, Pahalgam opens up with a fresh cool breeze of the river. It has an astounding 9 hole gold course open for tourists now being extended into an 18 hole . The golf championships are organized by state government and private hoteliers in Summer.  Here, tourists and locals putt together in the shades of Pine trees surrounding the golf course.

Pahalgam-Kashmir

Location

Pahalgam is located in the western part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is located at an altitude of 2130 m above sea level amidst the great Himalayan range. It is positioned beside the Liddar River, in the Liddar valley. Pahalgam is 95 km east of Srinagar. The weather in Pahalgam is alpine. Summers (April-June) are mild while winters (November-February) are cold. It experiences rains between July and September. It experiences heavy snowfall from December to February.

History

The origin of Pahalgam is obscure. Mughal rulers ruled this region in the medieval period. It was later a part of the Kingdom of Kashmir, which was ruled by local Hindu rulers. This princely state remained independent even during the British period and later on merged into independent India.

Sightseeing

Chandanwari (16km: 2,923m) 

It is famous for its snow bridge.

Baisaran (5 km: 2,438m)

Pine forests dot this meadow which presents a picturesque view of the snow-clad mountains. The snow covered Tulian lake at an altitude of 3353 m is 11kms from Baisaran.

Sheshnag Lake (27 km: 3,658m)

The waters of this greenish blue lake are covered with ice till June.

Sheshnag-Lake-Pahalgam-Kashmir

Panchtarni (40 km)

It is the confluence of five streams and gives Panchtarni its name. A good camping site.

Amarnath Cave

Pahalgam is Base Camp of Amarnathji yatra which stands at 3952 mtrs, 46.7 km from Pahalgam. The Holy Cave is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The ice lingam formed by water droplets, symblises Lord Shiva . People visit the Holy Cave during the scheduled Yatra period. Yatris can hire a pony of Dandy from Pahalgam.

Amarnath-Cave

Distances of stopovers from Pahalgam are : Chandanwari 16 km Pissu top 19.6 km Sheeshnag 25.6 km, Holy Cave 46 . 7 km.

All stopovers have facilities from tents to medical comps and langars, The trek is covered in 2 to 3 days. This Hindu pilgrimage is believed to be the discovery of a Muslim shepherd nomad Butta Malik who’s descendant still receive a  percentage of the donations made by pilgrims. The Yatra Generally during June to August depending upon the Hindu calendar (Sawan Purnima)

Aru (11 km: 2,408m)

This charming meadow can be reached by walking along a mountain path. The river Lidder disappears at Gur Khumb and reappears after 27 mts.

Lidderwat (22km: 3,408m)

A beautiful camping site set among dense forests. Starting point of the trek to the Sindh Valley.

Lidder-river-pahalgam

Kolohi (1,467 m)

Base for a three-day return trek to the Kolohi Glacier.

Tarsar Lake (34 km: 3,962m)

It can be reached from Lidderwat. There are delightful camping sites and flower meadows at Sikiwas, 24 kms from here. To reach the nearby Mansar lake one has to cross a 243 mts high bridge.

Tarsar_lake_Aru

When to Visit

The best time to visit Pahalgam is during the summers, between mid-April and mid-November. It can also be visited in July-August during the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave of Amarnath.

PAHALGAM (Adventure)

Kashmiri-traditional-dress

The Liddar River is popular among travelers interested in angling. Stretches of this river are suitable for trout fishing. Travelers interested in fishing have to obtain a fishing license from the Directorate of Fisheries in Srinagar. Pahalgam is the starting point of a number of trekking and hiking trails to the surrounding mountains. Trekking around Pahalgam is exhilarating, as it takes the traveler through virgin pine forests, clear mountain streams, and meadows of wildflowers.

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

Pahalgam is the starting point of the annual Amarnath yatra (holy journey) to the holy cave shrine of Amarnath, which is said to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Every year in the month of July/August, thousands of pilgrims descend on Pahalgam on their way to the holy cave.

How to Get There

Airport: The nearest Airport is in Badgam Distt

Train: The nearest rail head is at Jammu.

Road: Bus service is available from Srinagar and Anantnag. Taxis can be hired from Srinagar at pre-fixed rat