Things to do in Coonoor

Located at a height of 1,856 metres, Coonoor is a small tea garden town and an enchanting hill station. Here we bring you 10 Coonoor things to do that will enable you to make the most of this jewel nestled in the Nilgiri mountains

1. See Sim’s Park 

Sim’s Park sits in a deep ravine. By navigating its meandering paths you can reach the park’s higher peaks. Its most wondrous offering is its wealth of shola trees and the other innumerable varieties, sporadically planted all over. In full bloom, this randomness creates a vibrant and unreal effect. The park is also famous for affording great views to many of Coonoor’s popular tourist spots such as Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s Nose and Lady Canning’s Seat.

Sims-Park

2. Take the toy train

Nilgiri’s famous toy train is one of the most popular Coonoor things to do. The charming train started operating over a century ago and, considering the terrain of the region, it is rightfully considered an engineering marvel. The blue-cream train oozes old world charm with delightful wooden coaches and large windows that provide enchanting views. It’s called a toy train because it’s so slow that you can high-five the children outside as it moves. It stops every hour and so you can easily hop in and out for a short photo session. A ride on the usually crowded train should be considered a rare experience rather than treated as a functional mode of transport.

Toy-Train

3. Bird watching and listening

Coonoor’s calm and quiet is not just appreciated by peace-seeking tourists but also exotic birds. Here, you can find many songbirds such as nightingales, babblers, larks and robins, who serenade you with their mesmerizing harmonies.

Bird-Watching

4. Pick the fruits 

Coonoor’s Pomological Station is a feast for those interested in horticulture. Many varieties of fruits are grown here for research purposes. Here, one can also purchase fresh apples, plums, apricots and much more. Freshly made fruit jams are produced on a small scale and are delicious gifts for those back home.

Fruit Picking

5. Tour the silk station

A visit to the Silk Rearing Station is a great way to learn the intricacies of Sericulture. On special request you can get a complete tour of the process and see how the famous Indian silk is made. However, do note that the process involves boiling silkworms alive, so it may not be for everyone.

Silk

6. Enjoy the falls

The Law Falls are located 7 kilometers from Coonoor and make for a lovely picnic spot. The divine Falls drop from a height of almost 200 feet and what adds to the charm of the area is that it is enveloped by majestic Shola trees.

Waterfall

7. Get some fantastic views

A short drive from Coonoor is a destination called Lamb’s Rock. The tourist spot is a favourite of visitors because it offers divine views of Coimbatore. Just a little further away from Lamb’s Rock is Dolphin’s Nose. The viewpoint is quite simply named after a massive rock, which resembles the face of a Dolphin.

Sun-set

8. Share a point of view

Lady Canning’s Seat is just 9 kilometers from Coonoor. It is so named because the wife of Viceroy Canning loved to sit and marvel at the vista. Here you can find a small residence, which you can explore or just use to rest for a bit. From this destination you can soak-up the enchanting views of the endless tea estates that surround you as well as gaze at the plains

Valley-view

9. Drive to Droog

To reach the Droog, one has to drive 15 kilometers from Coonoor and then take on a 3 kilometer long trek. The Droog serves as a popular picnic spot but it also has great historical significance. The destination once served as an outpost for the great Tipu Sultan. It stands proud at an elevation of 6,000 feet and due to its location it offers incomparable views of the surrounding plains.

Droog Drive

10. Day trip to Masinagudi

Masinagudi is a great place to see elephants languidly strolling by, sharing the roads with cars, pedestrians and trucks. The destination is less than 20 kms from Coonoor and the drive is infested with hairpin turns. Trekking is the best way to explore Masinagudi’s beautiful vistas. There are innumerable charming makeshift snack stalls, which serve as great places to take a break and dig into the local delicacies.

Elephant-in-Masinagudi

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 Manali - holiday spot of North India

Manali has long been the preferred holiday spot of North India’s privileged crowd.

Here are ten reasons why it’s much loved by them, as well as the numerous ex-pats, adrenaline junkies and families that climb up to its cool altitude.

These are our Manali Things To Do.

1.Enjoy the rapid action

Manali isn’t all about languid rest and replenishment. Plenty of adventure sports are available here for thrill-seekers. One such activity is white water rafting. During summers, you can arrange a ride down the rocky rapids of River Beas for the thrill of a lifetime.

Rocky Rapids of River Beas

2.Sledge and ski Rohtang Pass

This is the most popular day tour from Manali. It’s a snow-clad region where hundreds of people can be seen having snowball fights, making snowmen, sledding and more. It’s also a lot of fun to watch the tourists trying to ski for the first time and falling on their faces. A little mean but fun nonetheless.

Sledge and ski Rohtang Pass

3.Feel the wind beneath wings

On your way to Rohtang Pass, you’ll come across lots of people enjoying paragliding. You can be one of them by arranging a paragliding experience with the professionals who work there. The ride doesn’t often last long, but is fun and gives you a beautiful bird’s eye view of Manali’s lush landscape.

Chills Down Your Spine

4.Rest and relax

Manali’s hot water springs are essentially made of hot sulphur water, which helps relax your muscles and are believed to cure many skin diseases. A dip in your personal chamber isn’t going to cost a lot. So bring your bathing suits.

Hot Water Springs

5.Bow your head

The Hidimba temple is one of the most revered religious spots in Manali for Hindus. It is dedicated to Hidimba Mata, one of the most influential female characters in the Mahabharata. Other than this important temple, plenty of beautiful monasteries are speckled all over Manali. If you plan your trip to coincide with the festival of Dussehra, you might catch the famous Kullu Dusshera – a great parade of deities – at its best.

Hidimba temple

6.Play dress up

At most tourist spots you will have the chance to dress up in traditional folk attire and get a photo. The clothes can be rented for a small amount and the photograph is often handed to you within minutes.

Traditional Manali Dress

7.Go rock climbing

The temptation of taking on the mighty Himalayas attracts a lot of rock climbing enthusiasts to the area. But for those who want to enjoy a light-hearted version of the adventure sport, there are plenty of companies who will take good care of you with something for beginners.

Rock Climbing

8.See the glaciers of Solang Valley

The famed Solang Valley is a great place near Manali from where you can see beautiful glaciers and snow-clad mountains. You can reach its ski point using the ski lift. Even if you don’t ski, the journey will afford you unforgettable vistas of the region.

Solang Valley

9.Soak up the Old Town atmosphere

If you’re looking to hang out with the elite crowd of Manali and not the usual tourists, then Old Manali is where you should head to. Other than the very best cafes, bars and restaurants in Manali, you might even notice a celebrity or two. The eating and drinking places are filled mostly with ex-pats and retired or semi-retired actors, who call this area of Manali home.

Manali

10.Finish with a toast

The state of Himachal Pradesh is most famous for its red, juicy apples. And naturally, the apple juice and cider produced here is unmatched by any other brand or place. But for those who prefer their drinks with a bit of a kick, Lugdi and Chhang are the perfect options. These are locally produced alcoholic drinks and have a pretty robust flavor.

Red Apple

Things To Do in Madya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is one of India’s largest states and offers a variety of experiences to tourists. It boasts of a rich history, a wealth of fauna and innumerable things to do.

The most well known treasures of the State are the famous Khajuraho temples. The unique temples keep the world’s imagination captured even today due to their erotic art and lifelike carvings. However, there’s a lot more to the temples than just their art and architecture. A beautifully presented Light and Sound Show takes people through the mythical and factual history of the temples. The show is held twice a night on the ground of the main temple complex. A few hours’ drive from Khajuraho is Orchha, a city which exudes grandeur and history.

Khajuraho Temples

The Orchha Fort is one of India’s most spectacular. But what attracts people to Orchha in millions is the Ram Raja Temple. The temple is supposed to have wish-fulfilling abilities and it is the only place in the world where Rama is worshipped as a king and not a God. Another city that speaks of royal splendour, even today, is Gwalior. The city has an enviable history yet it has many modern developments. It has one of the most respected schools in India and palace which has some of the most spectacular artefacts. Mementos of the dynasties that ruled over Gwalior in the past can be seen in their grand creations such as palaces, temples and monuments.

Other than glimpses into the splendours of Indian royalty, Madhya Pradesh also possesses a chapter, invaluable to human history. One of the things to do in Madhya Pradesh is, without doubt, a trip to Bhimbetka.

The Orchha Fort

In this small city over 500 caves from the Neolithic age were recently found. In these caves we can see paintings made by pre-historic man. The paintings depict pre-historic life through scenes showing dancing, music, hunting, domestic life and so much more, a chilling sight to behold. Another such location is in Pachmarhi. In Pachmarhi’s Mahadeo Hills you can see a bounty of rock paintings. Many of these creations date back to as far as 10,000 years.

Comparatively close to Bhimbetka is Sanchi, a city famous world over for its treasure of Buddhist monuments. Here, you can find a plethora of Buddhist monasteries, stupas and architecture. A lot of these creations were built in the 3rd century B.C. and the most well known amongst them is the Sanchi Stupa 1, which was built by Emperor Ashoka. A sandstone pillar near the stupa bears Emperors Ashoka’s caveat against divisions in the Buddhist community.

Sanchi Stupa

Amongst Madhya Pradesh’s most valued treasures is Bandhavgarh, a small but rich national park where you have the highest chance of spotting a tiger in India. This National Park also houses a lavish Fort Bandhavgarh, which is about 2000 years old. Before leaving Bandhavgarh you must meet Mohan, a stuffed White Tiger that’s placed on display at the Palace of the Rewas. The Kanha National Park was created as a Tiger Reserve. Although Tiger spotting is rare here Kanha is the sole sanctuary for the hardground Barasingha and a haven for bird lovers. One of the most majestic natural wonders of the world is also located in Madhya Pradesh. This sight is none other than the Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat. Rising high above the Earth and bisected by River Narmada are these magnificent natural creations. The Marble cliffs, glittering brightly are an unforgettable and incomparable sight.

Bandhavgarh National Park

From natural wealth to prehistoric treasures, Madhya Pradesh is one of the richest States in India. Its vast array of wonders is nearly impossible to fit into a short trip and deserve at least a week to soak in comfortably.

Madhya Pradesh tourism: Practical Information

• Madhya Pradesh is a large State and it is well-connected to major Indian metros. Khajuraho and Gwalior have small airports. But flights to Gwalior are very few in number.
• To come in from Delhi one can take a train to Jhansi from where private cabs can take you to the Alipura Palace homestay. Alipura Palace is a good hub for those travelling to Orchha and Khajuraho, while those looking to cover Khajuraho and Bandhavgarh will find Mahindra homestays such as Rajmandir in Nagod a delightful option.
• Public transport is not easily accessible as the cities are far from each other. The best modes of transport are trains or, if the budget permits, private cabs. Bookings made by homestay owners go a long way in travelling safely yet at a reasonable price.
• The Light and Sound Show is performed twice a day and a ticket costs roughly Rs 90 per person.
• There are three major temple complexes in Khajuraho and one shouldn’t leave the place without seeing them all.
• Tripods are not allowed within the complex unless prior permission is obtained after going through a complex and tedious process.
• Travelling to the State between late March and July is ill-advised as the summers are unforgiving and the situation is worsened by daily power-cuts.

The Colors of India

India is a country of rich contrast; from the sacred temples and opulent palaces to the crowded streets of Mumbai and the commercial Kolkata. With each new day, you can expect to experience something different from the day before.

Flavours of India

Because of this, India can be a bit of an enigma. But if you want to sample different parts of India on your next trip, vary your travels with these must-sees stops along the way.

Top 10 must-see sights

1. The Taj Mahal, Agra

The world’s ultimate symbol of love. Built by a Mughal Emperor in memory of his great love.

2. The waterways of Kerala

One of the “ten paradises of the world” and one of the great trips for the modern traveler. Cruise an unbelievably lush and beautiful network of rivers, lakes and canals in five-star luxury in traditional vessels.

3. Imperial Delhi

One of the greatest ever expressions of empire, the vision of British colonial architect Sir Edward Lutyens includes grand processional avenues, palaces, public buildings and monuments.

4. A desert safari in Rajasthan 

Travel by camel or jeep through the Thar Desert, visiting historic ruins, tribal villages and sleeping in a tent under the stars.

5. Gateway of India, Mumbai

Start your exploration here in the footprints of history in one of the most vibrant and exciting cities on earth.

6. Temples of Southern India

Intricately carved and aesthetically designed, South Indian Temples are amongst the most beautiful architectural expressions of religion, and an integral part of the rich heritage of South India.

7. Tea in Darjeeling

Once a summer retreat for the British Raj, this UNESCO World Heritage site sits above 2,000 metres, reached by a vintage steam railway. It’s surrounded by views of the Himalayas and tea plantations.

8. Pink Palace, Blue Palace, you choose

Often called the "Venice of the East", Udaipur is famed for its collection of ancient palaces, some of which cover entire islands in the region’s beautiful lakes. Many are now luxury hotels.

9. Goa

Like the beach life? This well visited region on India’s west coast, formerly a Portuguese enclave, still offers pristine coastlines, deserted beaches and traditional fishing communities.

10. Kolkata

It’s busy, crowded, but an important centre for the arts, sciences and intellectual life. Kolkata’s Bengali cuisine is also world-famous.

Awesome things you didn’t know about India

• Chess, the world-famous board game, was invented in India.
• The value of ‘pi’ used in mathematics was first calculated by the Indian mathematician Budhayana in the sixth century.
• India is one of the largest exporters of computer software products.
• The national game of India is hockey, but cricket is practically a ‘religion’.
• The Indian movie industry, known as Bollywood, makes the largest number of movies in the world.
• India's GDP per capita is expected to multiply by four times from now to 2020.

Five reasons to visit India

1. The food. Indian cuisine offers an infinity of tastes, styles and flavours, from village to town to region.
2. The fabrics. "Pink is the navy blue of India," declared the great fashion editor, Diana Vreeland. From Rajasthan in the west to Chennai (home of Madras cotton) in the east, stand on any street corner and watch the cerise and orange and green of the silk and cotton saris worn by women glide by.
3. The history. India is one of the world’s oldest cultures on earth, with an artistic heritage to match.
4. The philosophy. India is home to several of the world’s oldest religious and cultural traditions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Islam, and more.
5. The friendliness. Indian people are renowned for their warmth and open hospitality.

Things to do in Cochin (Kerala’s Capital City)

We want our guests 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 a guide to the key ingredients that make up beautiful Cochin. Be sure you include them all in your visit to this remarkable city of islands sat on Kerala’s lush coast.

1. Water

The city itself is a cluster of islands connected by canals, lakes and lagoons, so Cochin is the ideal place to start a backwater trip. City tours take in the colonial treasures of Fort Cochin and the hubbub of charming Willingdon Island. Longer trips take you on routes to Alleppey and beyond, and into lands of lush tranquillity and laid back river-village life.

In-the-backwaters-cochin

2. Mud

Mud rejuvenates the body, opens the skin’s pores and is thought to relieve a variety of ailments, from arthritis to heat burn. Cochin is very big on holistic therapy. There are several spas where you can let your mind drift while your body is embalmed in thick brown clay.

Mud holistic therapy

3. Fish

There are two reasons the Chinese fishing nets of Cochin are of such appeal. Fixed permanently to the shore, they represent fishing at its most unusual. Cast out during dawn or a sunset, they are a curiously beautiful sight. The hauls are cooked up within minutes by street vendors. Tuck in.

White-snapper-cochin

4. Sand

Cherai Beach, with its calm, clean, shallow sea and supple golden sand, is rightly known as Kerala’s best beach. Stretching north for nine long miles, it’s never a problem to find a quiet spot. At only 20 minutes drive from central Cochin, it’s no surprise that Cherai is the popular choice of the city’s sunseekers.

sand-and-sea-cochin

5. Paint

You can not leave Cochin without experiencing the blaze of colour and intensity that ignites during a Kathakali performance. This historical dance-drama demands so much from its actors that they use martial arts to prepare themselves and spend ten years learning the art. At Fort Cochin’s highly-regarded Kathakali Centre you can watch a show and also take lessons.

Kathakali-painting

6. Spice

Cochin was built on the spice trade. It acted as a port for the Arabs, Chinese, Jews and Romans who sailed to Kerala to sniff out the best of its plantation produce. Everything from pepper, chilli and turmeric, to nutmeg, vanilla and ginger thrives on the hills of ‘God’s Own Country’. And for thousands of years it’s been shipped out of Cochin across the world. Get down to Mattancherry spice market and inhale the powders of Cochin’s history.

Jew-Town-Cochin

7. Rubber

Although Kerala also has an abundance of rubber plantations, you’ll need strong rubber soles on your feet to walk and appreciate the breadth of Cochin’s attractions. With the winding streets of relaxed Fort Cochin to explore, the curios shops and sights of Jew Town to enjoy, and the bustle of downtown Ernakulam to experience, you may want to stop, put your feet up and sup a cold glass of the local Sandpiper beer.

8. Time

The Portuguese of the 15th century. The Dutch of the 17th. The British after 1795. Before all of them the Chinese and the Romans. They all left their influence on this cosmopolitan, melting pot of a city – particularly on its architecture. Must-sees include the church of Santa Cruz Basilica and Paradesi Synagogue. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to appreciate the full, exotic flavour of this complex blend. Then you will taste the global infusion of Cochin, ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’.

Cochin-fort

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 Bangalore

Bangalore is a young city but one that boasts a rich history. This paradox is reflected in many aspects of India’s Silicon Valley. We explore things to do in Bangalore to ensure you get a complete experience o fall it’s contrasts.

1. Hop on. Hop off

Cheap and comprehensive tours of the city are offered by KSTDC. These half-day and full-day tours cover Bangalore’s most important landmarks. Another full day tour called Bangalore Rounds is available to tourists for Rs. 250. But for people who prefer to have a more spontaneous tour of the city private cabs are readily available. All homestays can arrange such rides for a reasonable price with a guarantee of safety and efficient service.

Hop-on-in-bangalore

2. Tour of temples

There are innumerable revered temples in Bangalore, prime amongst them are temples like the Bull Temple, which is built in Dravidian architecture. It is famous for the enormous statue of a bull that’s carved from one massive boulder. Located in Rajajinagar and in the midst of picturesque surroundings is the ISKCON Temple. The Krishna temple also serves as an important centre of vedic and spiritual learning.

Tour-of-temples-in-bangalore

3. Houses of meditation and spirituality

Bangalore is the hub of the Art of Living foundation. Their ashram attracts countless people from all across the world just like The Ramakrishna Ashram, located in Gandhi Bazaar. It is a vast sanctuary, which exudes peace and tranquillity. The Maha Bodhi Society Temple is another famous site for peace-seekers and meditation. The temple’s main shrine is a replica of Bodh Gaya’s revered stupa and houses precious Buddhist literature.

4. Monuments and historic sites

Bangalore is filled with examples of great architecture and rich history. Foremost amongst such sites are Bangalore’s Vidhana Sabha (The State’s Legislative House), Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan’s Palace. The Bangalore Palace was built by Mysore’s Maharajahs and was only recently opened to the public. The Palace has suffered due to years of neglect which is very evident. In contrast, we have Tipu Sultan’s Palace, which is over 220 years old and served as a lavish summer retreat for the king.

Monuments-and-historic-sites-bangalore

5. For the family

Cubbon Park is an enormous green oasis, which is spread in over 300 acres. It serves as a lovely picnic spot and has many recreation activities such as a children’s park, a toy train, a theatre and much more. Lal Bagh is another place where a family outing can be hosted. Built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century, the sprawling garden is considered the most charming and romantic in the country. It has lovely lotus ponds, fountains, glass houses and historic stone formations. A recent addition to the city is the Lumbini Garden. Located along the Nagvara Lake, the park offers enjoyable activities such as boating, a wave pool and a children’s park. In Bangalore, one will also find the Wonder La Amusement Park, India’s largest amusement and water park. The park is home to many thrill and water rides as well as rain dance sections. Fire crackers and laser light shows in evening are a delight to watch.

For-the-family-in-bangalore

6. Wildlife watch

The Bannerghatta National Park is a sanctuary where one can find wild animals like migrating elephants, bison, wild boar and if one is extremely lucky, the elusive leopard. The sanctuary is a refuge for rescued animals and also houses a crocodile farm and a butterfly park.

Wildlife-watch-bangalore

7. Nightcrawl

Bangalore is a young city and pubs, restaurants etc have become an integral part of its nightlife. Many upcoming local bands make their debut at the local pubs many of which are famous patrons of live music. Staying at a local homestay will help enormously in finding the latest, happening hotspot of activity.

Nightcrawl-in-bnagalore

Punjab travel guide: Things to do and see

Punjab is one of the most lively parts of India and has a population that truly believes in living the good life. From music to food and from clothes to cars, everything about the state is loud, proud and rich. There are plenty of interesting facts and things for visitors to do. We pick out some of the highlights in our Punjab travel guide discovering off-beat things to do, farming, cooking, colours, festivals, and great pujabi people

1. Join the celebrations:

Punjabis love to share their joy and celebrate every important moment of life. No wonder, they celebrate festivals with great zest and revelry. One of their most important festivals is Baisakhi. This marks the Punjabi New Year and is celebrated with lots of music, dancing and feasts. It falls on the 13th of April, every year. Another important regional festival is Basant Panchami, which is celebrated in February or March to welcome spring. Kite flying is an integral part of the festival and people are dressed in bright yellow, which signifies joy and a golden harvest.

Baisakhi

2. Eat to your heart’s content: 

Punjab is filled with fertile fields and people here love to eat. Feasts are a big a part of every celebration and the state’s most famous dish is “makke ki roti and sarso ka saag” which is topped off with a giant glass of lassi. In big cities like Chandigarh and Amritsar you can find many international food chains but nothing beats the local cuisine of Punjab. If you are staying with a homestay take a cookery lesson to learn first hand how to make some of the local delicacies.

3. Visit the Golden Temple: 

The Golden Temple in Amritsar is one of the most famous gurudwaras in the world. The temple is visited by millions of people and people from all backgrounds volunteer to serve guests of the temple as well as the needy. It is one of the most beautiful gurudwaras in India and no trip to Punjab is complete without visiting it.

Golden Temple

4. Jallianwalla bagh: 

Jallianwalla bagh was where the massacre of 13th April 1919 took place. On that day 1000s of peaceful protestors, including women and children, were gunned down by the British army. Remnants of the horrific day are preserved at the protected site.

5. Wagah Border: 

This border separates India from Pakistan and is for the Beating of the Retreat ceremony. The ceremony is a wildly exaggerated show of strength from both sides. The ceremony starts at sunset and the audience participates enthusiastically with music and dance. The Wagah border is located 29 kms from Amritsar and tours combining a trip here with a visit to the Golden Temple can easily be arranged.

Wagah Border

6. Sheesh Mahal: 

Located in Hoshiarpur is the Sheesh Mahal or Glass Palace. This palace was built in 1911 and is home to many valuable pieces of art and history. Some of them are depictions of King George V’s coronation ceremony, statues of various deities, and even life-size statues of King George V, Queen Victoria and their courtiers.

7. Fatehgarh Sahib: 

This is a sacred town located about 50 kms from Patiala. There is a famous gurudwara here which honours the victory of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur over Sirhind. The town has four memorial gates that stand as tributes to four important people from the Sikh history associated with Sirhind. Other than historical and religious value, the town’s natural beauty attracts visitors from all over.

Fatehgarh Sahib

8. Chandigarh: 

Chandigarh serves as a capital to both Haryana and Punjab. It is a city with a big heart and is constantly buzzing with activity and music. The most popular places to see here are the Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake. Rock Garden is a 40 acre park which was founded in 1957. It’s famous for sculptures made of recycled material like broken glass, bangles, ceramics and plastic bottles. The garden is located near the Sukhna Lake, which is a manmade Lake. It is a popular place for locals to enjoy a morning or evening walk.

9. Farming: 

Punjab is an agriculturally oriented state. This is particularly true of Punjab’s hinterland where most families own acres of fertile fields and farmhouses. You can stay in a farmhouse-style homestays and participate in daily chores like farming, milking cows and churning the butter and more.

Punjab travel guide:

Punjab-farming

Interesting facts

• Sukhna Lake was such a beloved part of the city that Pierre Jeanneret, who was one of Chandigarh’s planners asked for ashes to be immersed in the lake.
• Chandigarh was india’s first planned city.
• On the festival of Hola Muhalla in 2009, the Sikh community created a world record by achieving highest number blood donations made in a single day.
• Recent archaeological excavations revealed that punjab’s history can be traced as far back as the Indus Valley Civilisation.