Kumbh Mela 2013 - Photos

Millions of Hindus gathered at Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers, yesterday for Makar Sankranti and first the day of the Maha Kumbh Mela, in Allahabad, India.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, believed to be the largest religious gathering on earth, is held every 12 years on the banks of Sangam

Ganga Arti Blessings - Haridwar - Maha Kumbh

Ganga Arti - Haridwar - Maha Kumbh

Devotees arriving for Kumbh Mela 2013

Young gun's of India enjoying Maha Kumbh bath in Ganges - Maha Kumbh Mela 2013

Sadhu ganges dip at Maha Kumbh Mela 2013

Naga Baba's arriving at Maha Kumbh Mela 2013

Naga Baba's first dip in Maha Kumbh - Kumbh Mela 2013

Devotees paying respect to Ma Gange - Maha Kumbh Mela 2013

Baba Ramdev arriving at Maha Kumbh - Kumbh Mela 2013

Har Har Gange -- Naga babas jumping for holy dip in Ganges - Kumbh Mela 2013

Naga Baba smooking Ganja - Kumbh Mela 2013

Naga baba's chanting "Har Har gange" and taking a Holy Dip - Kumbh Mela 2013

Another one at Maha Kumbh 2013

Woman's praying to Ma Gange and taking Holy Dip during Maha Kumbh 

Sadhu walking to Ganges for Holy Dip - Kumbh Mela 2013

Sadhu's at Maha Kumbh 2013

Woman's drying cloths after Holy dip in Ganges - Kumbh Mela 2013

Couple's enjoying Holy Dip together during Maha Kumbh - 2013

Things to do in Nainital - North India’s most popular and famous hill stations

Nainital is one of North India’s most popular and famous hill stations. And here are 11 ways in which you can make the most of this land of the nine lakes.

1. Lake lovers

Nainital’s most popular feature are its numerous lakes, making boating a popular pastime. You can opt for a paddle boat, where you do all the work, or a languid ride on a row boat, operated by the boat’s owner. For those skilled at sailing, sailboats are easily available for rent as well. You can hire any of these options for as long as you want. Bargain over the price – it’s common.

Beautiful Lake Nainital

2. The height of beauty

As you enjoy the panoramic vistas of the city below, the Naini Cable Car takes you up to Snow View, a beautiful viewpoint located 7,500 ft above sea level. The popular tourist spot offers enchanting vistas of the Himalayan range. Be sure to grab a cup of hot chai and some steaming pakoras from one of the food stalls before you leave.

The Height of Beautiful Nainital

3. Hello Himalayas

There’s a viewpoint is located between Nainital and the town of Kilbury. It’s proudly perched at an impressive height of 2300 meters and offers wonderful views of the majestic Himalayas. It is one of the lesser known viewpoints around Nainital. It’s worth seeking out, away from the crowds and chatter.

4. A walk to remember

The best place to enjoy a trek or walk in Nainital is Thandi Sadak or Cold Street. It’s a lovely spot to find solitude and has a romantic ambiance. Your walk will be lined by tall, lush pines, deodars and oaks. During summer and fall, your walk will be set to the sweet sound of chirping birds and the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves.

A walk to remember in Nainital

5. Test of the terrain

Naina Peak is the highest peak in Nainital and obviously provides unmatched vistas to those who can take on the intense journey. Even the most skilled hikers find the journey daunting but the company of cheery rhododendrons, soaring deodars and lush cypresses is a welcome distraction. If you have persevering feet, then the peak rewards you with a magnificent bird’s eye view of Nainital, the Himalayas and the Terai region. Given the right season you can enjoy a 360 degree view of snow-cloaked Himalayas.

Nainital Valley

6. In the company of fish

Bhimtal has long been one of the most popular day trips from Nainital. A 22 kilometre long journey will take you to this small but popular island. Nainital’s authorities recently replaced Bhimtal’s overcrowded restaurant with an enchanting aquarium, which houses a variety of fish from all over the world such as South Africa, Mexico and China.

Duck swiming in Lake Nainital

7. Let’s celebrate

All year round, vibrant festivals can be observed in Nainital. Whether or not you understand their historic and religious importance, they’re always fun to participate in. Most of the festivals are all about building community spirit and are filled music, dance and colours, as well as delicious local specialties.

Kids celebrate with painting

8. Putting green

Golf has arrived in Nainital. The 9-hole course is fun, simple to master and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a great way to bond with the family while honing your putting skills.

Valley view

9. Horsing around

An interesting way to explore Nainital is on horseback. If you can’t ride well, the horse’s owner will accompany you. Pony rides are available for children.

10. Shopping

In Nainital you’ll find inexpensive, locally produced, and usually handmade merchandise. It is very popular for its unique and interesting candles. From a glittering Christmas tree to a jolly Buddha with a wick sticking out of his head, you’ll find lots of choice when it comes to souvenirs.

11. A day away

Nainital is surrounded by lakes that are getaways in their own right. One of such places is Sat-tal, which literally means “seven lakes.” It is one of the places around Nainital that have not been overwhelmed by commercialization and crowds. The other option is called Naukuchiyatal. This is a small and beautiful lake which has nau (nine) corners. It is just four kilometers from BhimTal and enveloped by lush green hills. The perfect place to be with yourself and your thoughts.

Boating in Nainital Lake

Inspired? Take a look at our Nainital homestays and book yourself a break.

We have more things to do in India articles.

Things to do in Bhimtal (Uttarakhand)

Mainly known as a destination for day tours Bhimtal is a quiet and comparatively lesser known hillstation in the district of Nainital. We explore six things to do in Bhimtal, a destination rich in warmth, peace and experiences.

1. In and around Bhimtal

Bhimtal is most famous for the Bhimtal Lake, which is the largest lake in the district of Nainital. The placid wonders of this lake are best discovered by boat but a walk around the lake’s perimeter is also a nice and quiet way to explore the region. The cool breeze and an almost perennially pleasant weather ensure that people can start as well as end their day with lovely long walks. People can be seen strolling along the lake at the crack of dawn and then heading out for a well-deserved breakfast. On the lake’s island one can find an enchanting aquarium, which recently replaced Bhimtal’s famous but overcrowded restaurant. At the aquarium you can see many species of fish from all over the world.

bhimtal

2. Historic visit

The privately owned museum in Bhimtal is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. Ancient artifacts, tools made of stone and objects of great historical value are on display at the musuem. You can also learn about traditional rites and rituals as well as see samples of the region’s rock art. Another great way of learning about the region is by interacting with homestay owners. As many locals have opened their homes to tourists, they have also provided outsiders the opportunity to experience the region in its most authentic and endearing form. Interacting with such hosts provides people with valuable insight into the local life and history. People here are filled with enchanting stories, which cannot be found in any institution of museum.

3. Trip to Nainital

Nainital is a popular hillstation located in Kumaon, which is famous for its innumerable activities and natural beauty. It is serene yet lively at the same time and has many activities for the whole family. Day tours from Bhimtal to Nainital are easily available and strongly recommended.

Trip_to_Nainital

4. Trip to Naukuchia Tal

Located at a height of over 1,200 meters is the beautiful and languid Lake Naukuchia tal. The lake is just 4 kilometers from Bhimtal and cabs can be hired on the spot for a day or half-day tour. Naukuchiatal is a haven for bird watchers as it attracts countless migratory birds from across the world.  Other activities like boating and trekking are also poular things to do.

5. The land of seven lakes

Saat Taal (Seven Lakes), which quite poetically is located just 7 kilometers from Bhimtal is another quiet place to enjoy a day tour. Saat Taal was named after its seven lakes. Two out of the seven original lakes have dried up but the remaining five are vey popular with tourists. The lakes are rich with fish and are frequented by fishing enthusiasts.

The-land-of-seven-lakes

6. Hills with the White Carpet

A short trip from Mallital will lead you the picturesque Snow View Point. The viewpoint is perched at 2270 meters above sea level and the journey can be undertaken by ropeway or on horseback. Both experiences have their own charm and once at the view point, visitors are greeted with panoramic vistas of majestic snow-clad mountains.

Let us know what would be top of your things to do in Bhimtal list.

Things To Do in India’s Switzerland (Uttarakhand)

When it comes to natural beauty, Uttarakhand is considered one the richest States in India. The state also has some of the most important spiritual cities in the country that incredulously co-exist alongside adventure capitals. Uttarakhand is a beautiful example of the paradox that is India. We look at things to do in Uttarakhand that make this state unforgettable.

1. At the gate of the Gods

Uttarakhand has always been called Devbhumi (Land of the Gods) largely because in this State one can find some India’s holiest places and shrines. It has been attracting innumerable devotees and believers for over 1000 years. The most revered amongst such places is Haridwar (the gateway to God), where people come to wash away their sins with a dip in the Ganga. Haridwar is a revered Hindu pilgrimage destination and it is particularly crowded during the world famous Kumbh and Maha Kumbh Melas. The two festivals have become an uber-magnet not just for devotees but also aspiring and professional photographers. Haridwar is not just a place but an experience that’s simply incomparable.

2. The Real Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a city that attracts a diverse crowd. It has revered ancient temples but it also a hub for adventure sports like rafting, rappelling and more. The contrast makes it very popular amongst people of North India. Rafting is organized in Shivpuri near Rishikesh and is seasonal. But the temples attract worshippers and photographers from all over. Rishikesh is also the premier yoga hub of the nation and at the Patanjali School educates people from the world over about yoga, meditation, ayurveda and other holistic measures. People stay at the school for months on end learning how to reshape their lives.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

3. Divine Dehradun

Thanks to its natural beauty and pleasant climate, Dehradun serves as a vital escape from the harsh Indian summers. While vacationing in Dehradun one of the things to do is visiting the Rajaji National Park. The sanctuary houses many rare species of flora and fauna. Hitting one of the many trekking, hiking or biking trails is a great way to balance the increased appetite created by the fresh and clean air. While you burn off the calories you’ll also discover the hidden side of Dehradun at a languid pace.

4. The holy four

For centuries, a drastically diverse crowd has been flocking to Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath. The four places are together called the Chhota Chaar Dhaam (The smaller holy four centres). The locations have long enchanted people with their unparalleled beauty, their divine history and, since recently, their adventurous side. Pilgrims looking for salvation have been braving the trying conditions to reach them as they are the sources of the holy rivers, Ganga and Yamuna. Recently these conditions have become a major draw for Uttarakhand tourists, especially biking enthusiasts and campers who love the scenic journey and locales. The glaciers that support the two rivers are slowly melting, which has added to their attraction. Kedarnath, the hardest to reach location, is only accessible to the general public in specific months.

Glaciers of Uttarakhand

5. India’s Switzerland

Kasauni is a small hillstation located in Bageshwar. It is known for its serenity and small town charm, quite distinct from the bigger hillstations of the region. It offers panoramic view of the Himalayas and a quiet escape from urban life. Kasauni’s beauty led Mahatma Gandhi to hail it as the Switzerland of India. In Kasauni, you can visit the Anashakti Ashram which was home to Mahatma Gandhi while he wrote his discourse on Anasakti Yoga. In your sightseeing list, you must include a visit to see the Himalayan peaks that are shaped like a trident. If you are staying with a homestay, your hosts can teach you how to make an aipan, a regional and traditional style of rangoli.

6. To do in Nainital

Nainital is one of North India’s most popular hillstations. It is the land of nine lakes and enthralling activities, suitable for the entire family. In Nainital the most popular activity is boating. One can choose from several options like row boats, pedal boats and sail boats to discover the corners of Naini Lake. A cable car ride will lead you to Snow View from where you can enjoy lovely vistas of the region. A walk up and down the mall road is a lovely way to spend an evening or start the day. Many day trips from Nainital can be organized easily. The most popular amongst them are trips to Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal. Walking and hiking trails are found all over the hillstation with countless hidden secrets to share.

Lake Nainital

7. Must see Mussoorie

Due to its close proximity from Delhi and well-connected roads, Mussoorie is one of the many poplar hillstations in Uttarakhand for tourists. Other than a pleasant climate and picturesque locales, the hillstation has plenty of activities to offer. The Mall road is great place to spend hours walking and exploring the local market, maybe picking up trinkets as souvenirs. Kempty Falls is a lovely waterfall where lots of families come to enjoy a dip in the water followed by a fun picnic. A lovely and exciting ropeway ride leads you to Gun Hill, the second highest peak of Mussoorie. Here one can enjoy divine vistas of the Himalayan ranges and of the town below.

Gun Hill, Mussoorie

8. Wildlife Wonders

Jim Corbett National Park has been the favoured getaway for wildlife lovers in India. It doesn’t just offer a chance to see rare animals in their natural habitat but also a choice of exclusive experiences. Jeep safaris, elephant safaris, camping, festive celebrations and photography are all available for your entertainment at this sanctuary. The park is closed during certain months but is a great getaway during the most pleasant seasons in North India.

Jim Corbett National Park