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South India Spiritual Hubs

The Glittering Royal Heritage  of South India “Mysore”

One of the South India’s most admired tourist destinations, Mysore is a city of grandeur and is known for its truly impressive royal heritage and some amazing monuments and buildings. It’s World Heritage listed palace may be the reason for most travelers flocking here and the other thing what makes this place significant to the travelers is the production of premium silk, sandalwood, and incense. Mysore also has the reputation as one of India’s best places to practice yoga and nowadays ashtanga yoga is another big attraction to the visitors worldwide. It also hosts the nada habba – the Mysore Dasara – which attracts millions of tourists every year to the state.

Mysore Climate

Mysore has a semi-arid climate the main seasons being summer, from March to June, the monsoon season, from July to November, and winter, from December to February. The average annual rainfall is 804.2 mm (31.7 in).

Lakes and rivers of Mysore

Talking about the lakes, Mysore has several lakes such as Kukkarahalli, the Karanji, and the Lingambudhi lakes. The water bodies such as lakes and rivers are one of the favorite relaxing spots for nature lovers to spend some quiet moments and to feel a sense of serenity. The city is situated between two rivers: the Kaveri River flows through the north of the city and the Kabini river, a tributary of the Kaveri, lies to the south. So whenever you visit Mysore, don’t forget to spend to visit the lake spots and spend some quiet moments away from the buzz and the hustles and bustles of the city life. Mysore lake is an ideal place to sit and allow the mind to unwind completely.

Art and Culture In Mysuru

Mysuru is known as the cultural capital of Karnataka. The Mysore painting style is an offshoot of the Vijayanagar School of painting, and King Raja Wodeyar (1578–1617 CE) is acknowledged as a patron. The distinctive feature of these paintings is the gesso work, to which gold foil is applied.

In addition, Mysore is known for its rosewood inlay work. The city is famed for the Mysore silk saree, made with pure silk and gold zari (thread). Mysore Peta, the traditional indigenous turban worn by the erstwhile rulers of Mysore, is even today worn by Kannada men during certain ceremonies.

Sight Seeing

Mysore, the region of royalty and an alluring scenic view is one of the most famed travel destinations in the southern part of India. Located at the distance of 152 Km from Bangalore, the garden city of India, this city is jeweled with the beautiful art of mother nature. This article is an attempt to guide you all through your tour to Mysore.

Glimpse of Royal history Mysore

The Royal history of Mysore dates back to the 14th century, ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty for almost 6 centuries(1399 to 1947). The Wodeyar king constructed the famous Mysore palace in the 14th century, which was damaged due to the lightning strike in 1638. Further, it was re-constructed by Britishers in 1912.

The palace and its beautiful architecture is arguably the best example of Indo-Saracenic and the perfect combination of rich cultures of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles.

Darshan of Chamundi Hills

The Chamundi hill is one of the ancient temples of South India, built in the 11th Century. It is considered as a most significant tourist spot and must visit destination of Mysore. The Devotees across India and the world, who come to pay regards to Chamundi Devi.

Mysore Zoo

If you are an animal lover, then don’t miss to visit Shri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens in Mysore. It is one of the most liked tourist spots for travelers coming to Mysore.

A visit to the world famous Mysore Silk factory

If you’re planning a trip to Mysore, don’t ever skip visiting the government silk factory established in 1912. The silk sarees of Mysore are famous across the world, the fine embroidery and traditional zari work add charm to the traditional Indian wear. So, ladies don’t forget to pick your favorite silk saree right from the factory at very reasonable price tags. Take away with you a token of remembrance from this beautiful city.

There is everything beautiful about Mysore. It is the cleanest city in India and among the most loved travel destination in the southern part of India. The climate of the region is very pleasant and enjoyable and so, you can be assured to enjoy each moment there. It’s the land of rich culture and heritage. The city is famous for its palaces, gardens, museums, wildlife and eye delighting scenic beauty.

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Travel Tips

Why Jet Airways is our favourite?

Based in the financial capital of India, Mumbai, Jet airways happens to be the second largest airline company in India. It’s one of the busiest as well as its flights roam nonstop around the country in about 45 destinations and on the foreign shores, it has 20 destinations under its belt in 19 different nations. The popularity of Jet Airways has always been high among the Indians since its arrival on the airports and there are ample reasons for that.

One reason being the first class services that it provides for the business class. Space is sufficient enough to give you a feeling of being in the bedroom of a five-star hotel. Flying at a height of 40,000 feet above the land isn’t easy but Jet Airways make it quite dreamy and an amazing experience to have. And about the cuisines, the five-course meals are no rarity in the international flights but it is on another level on the Jet Airways. World’s finest cooks are there to satisfy your taste buds and the most expensive of beverages are here. Other than that, there is the signature Jet Airways cocktail that is quite wonderful and of the best taste, you have ever experienced.

The personal 23-inch screen and a headphone are provided along with a number of DVDs of the best movies from all over the world to keep you entertained through the long and tiring flights. Overall, the experience is what one would call the best one ever.

If the first class services didn’t make you fall in love with it, the Premiere class facilities may do the trick. First, the seats, the unique arrangement of the seats make it easy for you to stretch your legs and the long flights don’t seem tiring anymore. The laptop socket at every seat will let you keep your laptop on to keep you entertained. The ‘Dine Anytime’ features provided exclusively by the Jet airways will let you have your favorite snack or meal almost anytime. The entertainment quotient is amazing as well as you will be given a choice to choose among countless Hollywood and Bollywood film DVDs to select from and view them on a 15.4-inch screen.

The Economy class may very well be the basic of all. But comparing it with others, it is way more comfortable for the tourists. The seats shift themselves into ergonomic positions automatically as you stretch them and the comfort that is provided is magnificent. The culinary pleasures are top notch as well. With the menu card consisting of dozens of Indian and international food items, the flight isn’t going to let you be hungry. The Hammock headrests are the definition of comfort and help you as you try to doze off during the longer travels.

For all the classes of the population, Jet Airways have something special for each of them. No wonder they have steered their way to become the second largest airlines in the country. We chose Jet Airways because they are the best. If the above-mentioned services and features didn’t convince you on that, we don’t know what will.

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Architectural Beaches South India

Mahabalipuram – the glorious mix of ancient temples, monuments and beach resorts

Situated right in the heart of Kancheepuram district around 60 kms away from the Chennai city is the blue gemstone of the Indian heritage called Mahabalipuram. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in India, Mahabalipuram is famous for a host of ancient temples, monuments, and friendly nature of its local people. Most of the monuments situated in the district were built by Pallava dynasty rulers.

We bring you a list of some of the most popular attractions of the town to explore.

Arjuna’s Penance Sculpture

One of the major attractions in Mahabalipuram, Arjuna’s Penance sculpture is visited by thousands of tourists from around the globe. As the name suggests, the monument depicts the series of events that took place in the life of Arjuna during his penance period. These events of his life have been carved on two huge rocks atop which lies a collecting pool. It is around 43 feet high.

The art of sculpture on the rocks is unmatched and detailed way beyond one can imagine in that time.

Thirukadalmallai Temple

Thirukadalmallai temple appears like a pearl in the heart of Mahabalipuram. It is known by several names in the country. Some of which are Sthalasayana Perumal Temple and Divya Desams. According to the Indian mythology, this temple has been dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. This is one of the 108th temples built to prove devotion towards the Lord Vishnu.

This temple was built by Pallava rulers and saints who were known as Tamil Azhvars. This temple is one of its type in the country. It stands out for its ancient Dravidian art.

Cave Temples

Adorned by some 8 cave temples, Mahabalipuram is recognized for its cave arts and temples commissioned by the Pallava rulers. Touted as one the finest masterpieces from the ancient India, most of the sculptures in the caves are dedicated to the deities in Indian Mythologies. The detailing of these sculptures is unmatched. Names of these temples are Varaha, Krishna, Tiger, Panchapandava, Mahishasuramardini, Trimurti, Atiranachanda, and Kotikal.

Shore Temple                                       

Major attraction breathing amid cultural amalgam of Mahabalipuram is the Shore Temple. Built by Pallava rulers, the temple has their indelible traces of style, art, and culture. Just like most places and other major attractions in Mahabalipuram and in other parts of South India, Shore Temple is also known by a different name—7 Pagodas.

According to local traditional beliefs, Shore temple had 7 Pagodas before a ravenous Tsunami struck down the temple in around 13th century AD. There are several sculptures and other art pieces on the temple.

Pancha Rathas

The exact English translation of Pancha Rathas is five chariots. These Pancha Rathas have been named after the five Pandavas of the Hindu epic Mahabharatha.

Pancha Rathas has been carved out on pink granite. One of the tallest monuments is around 40 feet high. Like other temples and monuments in Mahabalipuram, Dravidian style and art dominate Pancha Rathas.

The catastrophic Tsunami in 2004 has affected many monuments in the district. However, this monument stands tall without a single sign of damage.

Sadras

Mahabalipuram is home to exquisite beach resorts that, one of the beach resorts is Sadras which has taken full advantage of the striking landscape. The beaches that surround Mahabalipuram are a glorious sight to watch as they are beset by beautiful, casuarinas groves.

The vibrant green beautifully contrasts with the sparkling white beaches is a sight that is a delight to everyone. This beach resort is located 13 kilometers outside of Mahabalipuram.

How to reach Mahabalipuram

Instead of Mahabalipuram, you can choose to take a flight to Chennai Airport on regular basis. The driving distance between Chennai and Mahabalipuram is 56 km, while the in-flight distance from Chennai to Mahabalipuram is 48 km.

There are no regular or proper train services from other major cities to Mahabalipuram. The nearest train station is Chengalpattu Junction.

Mahabalipuram is well connected to other major cities of the country via regular buses.

Food

While you are at this destination, look out for dishes such as try Grilled Fish, Vegetarian thali, Prawns, Lobsters, Crabs and more. South Indian cuisine lovers can try a typical South Indian platter which consists of Idli, Dosa, Appam, Vada, Upma Sambhar, Sweet Pongal, Kesari, Payassam and much more 

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Corporate Outings Deserts North India

“Jaisalmer”, the Golden City!!

Known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer represents the early essence of Rajasthan. The history dates back to the 11th century. The beautiful City of Jaisalmer was founded by Rajput king Maharawal Jaisal Singh in 1156, since then it’s an incredible destination to explore.
The City Jaisalmer, located at the distance of 575 Km west from Jaipur, is the gateway to the famous Thar Desert, which is one of the most loved travel destinations in Rajasthan. Explore the prosperous heritage and the culture of the Rajputana with us.

State: Rajasthan, India

District: Jaisalmer

Distance From New Delhi: 735 Km via NH 11

Distance From Jaipur: 575 Km via NH 11

Route: The Beautiful city of Jaisalmer can be reached via bus, train or flight. The travelers can choose the option according to their convenience.

Things to do in Jaisalmer:

If you have ever desired to explore the thriving history of Rajputs “The true Warriors”, then you should plan a holiday to Rajasthan and it’s different historical cities. The heart of the Great Thar Desert, Jaisalmer, and its rich culture will make you feel like a King. Here are things you can do and explore during your visit to the Golden City.
The Sonar Quila of Jaisalmer!!
The Golden fort, known as the “Sonar Quila” is the largest subsistence fort is the home to about 3000 people at present.The beautiful mountainous, a five-storied monument was built and designed in a traditional Rajasthani Style. The Prosperous and lavish inheritance of the Jaisalmer fort was portrayed by Satyajit Ray in his novel”Shonar Kella”, later the movie” Sonar Kella” was also made on it. The architectural structure of the fort separates into three layers of walls. The outside layer is made up of solid yellow stone blocks.
The Adventurous Camel Safari!!
Tour to the Golden City is incomplete if you miss the fun of experiencing Desert safari and Camel ride.It is most adventurous and thrilling experience you will encounter during your tour. Visiting Sam dunes during sunset and exploring each detail of mysterious desert by camel is mesmerizing and eye delight for travelers.


Magnificent Jain Temple!!
These beautiful and superb artistic sculptures in the temple will surely blow your mind and leave you lost in the scenic view. Each part of the temple was the fine example of the sheer twisted and tangled artwork; it’s beautiful jharokhas and its alluring Torana (entrance gate) are admirable. This beautiful Jain temple is devoted to the 24th Tirthankara is a perfect fusion of Jain beliefs and folklore.


The tranquil of the Gadi Sagar lake!!
Originally made for water conservation tank, its construction dates back to 14th century, the Gadi Sagar Lake is the man-made lake is one of the significant tourist attraction of Jaisalmer. The beautiful lake and its picturesque views are the perfect places for sightseeing in Jaisalmer.
The tranquil water sheet is surrounded by many temples and the ancient Krishna Temple that is located on top of the Tilon Gate is significant among all. During the winter season, the migratory birds settle around the region, which offers bird watching to the travelers. Adding to it, boating in the Gadi Sagar Lake is also an adventurous thing to experience in Jaisalmer.

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Adventure Architectural Asia Spiritual Hubs

48 Hrs in Kathmandu

The nonignorable chaos of wonderfully diverse people, most of them tourists though and the places full of pure natural bliss, Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital city. The city, like every other capital cities in the world, happens to be the center of all cultural, social and political happenings in the country. The added charm comes from the Mother Nature herself who has poured her heart into making this city a beautifully constructed piece of architecture. The mankind has also been quite fond of the city, how else would you explain the amazing temples and monuments located here. The recent earthquake almost ruined the city in its entirety but perhaps, it knows quite well how to take care of itself.

There are many things a tourist can do in here to make the most out of their trips. The religious institutions, the majestic Himalayan range, the national parks etc makes the city a complete package. Let us know more about what exactly one should be doing in the city once they land here.

Boudhanath Stupa- One of the very few UNESCO world heritage sites in the country, Boudhanath Stupa is a charming attraction for the tourists. Most of the tour guides always chose this place to start the journey deep into this beautiful city. The religious center of Nepal’s Tibetan/Budhh community, this stupa is a marvelous piece of architecture and a wonderful kick starts to the trip.

Everest Region- Home to some of the tallest mountain peaks in the world such as Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest, the Himalayan range is one other big tourist magnets in the city. Trek into the Everest was somehow closed due to the recent earthquake that shook the country but it was reopened after some time thanks to the heavy pressure by the tourists.

Annapurna Region- If there is anything else in the world that could be compared to Everest region in terms of magnificence is this. The 10-day trek over here is one of the longest and the most exciting trek in the world. The Annapurna Base Camp happens to be the highest point that gives a cool 360-degree view of the entire region, which makes for a sight to savor.

Durbar Square- Affectionately known as the heart of Kathmandu tourism, the Durbar Square remains crowded for the most part in the year. There are countless numbers of shrines and little temples spread in the square which is a great place for the most religious of tourists. Hanuman Dhoka and Taleju temple are two shining diamonds in the crown that Durbar Square is.

Pashupatinath Temple- King Bhupendra Malla, who reigned the country in the later parts of the 16th century, got this temple built and invited some of the most accomplished architects from all over the world to do the task. And the result is for all of us to see. This serves as a great pilgrim spot for the Hindu devotees who come here in heavy numbers.

There is no dearth of tourism spots in this city. There is the Royal Palace, Narayanhiti place museum among many other places. The only Hindu country in the world is being run by the Kathmandu city and its spirit is unbreakable. The latest example is the earth shattering earthquake. The city got up on its feet in no time and from the bruises of it, it became stronger than ever.

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Festival North-West India wildlife

Get ready to witness the wonderful sightings of Olive ridley turtles at Velas Turtle Festival

Turtles are interesting creatures, there is no doubt about it but we are accustomed to seeing them in the aquariums and zoos most often. People crave to see them live in their natural habitat and the Velas turtle festival provides them with the opportunity to do so. And without a doubt, it also attracts a lot of foreign tourists as well. Let’s know more about it.

Where

Velas is a small village in Ratnagiri in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. The annual event takes place during April every year and is a massive crowd puller. The village is located at about 220 Kilometres from Mumbai and the commute is easy, especially during the time of the festival. Take the bus from Mumbai or a train, which happens to be well connected and enjoy the festival.

About the festival

The village Velas is famous for the sightings of Olive ridley turtles, which are very rare and can hardly be found anywhere else. The turtles are there in the Arabian Sea and move to the village of Velas in order to lay eggs. A turtle conservation initiative has been taken by the villagers and that makes the event a safe one for the turtles and even the turtles, which are known to avoid human presence at all costs, can be seen behaving all natural. Many NGOs from across the country and the world have taken steps forward in order to conserve the population of the turtles by conserving their eggs and put them in the safe places. One mother turtle lays about a 100 eggs at one time and the incubation period is 50-55 days. The eggs laid by the turtles are then covered with baskets and the track is kept every day about their conditions.

 

However, the moment which everyone awaits with stopped breaths is the one when the eggs break and tiny turtles come out of them and as an instinct, they start moving towards the ocean. This is a grand event and gets covered by media and the general population alike in their phones. The baby steps they take stir some strange feelings of hope and life inside the observers and as they drift away into the ocean, the festival comes to its conclusion.

Timings

The festival goes on for an entire month and some great deals can be achieved from the travel websites and forums.

Tips

This isn’t a picnic spot but a conservation site. So the tourists need to remain calm and should act with caution. Littering around is an offense and the fine will be installed.

-Photography is although allowed, should be done with the flashlights off.

-The tourists need to wear sensible clothes. The locals here are somehow conservative in their approach towards decency and women in shorts or miniskirts may not be allowed.

-The timings may differ, so you may have to stay a bit longer to witness the baby turtles coming out of the eggs. Patience is mandatory.

Conclusion

This is a wonderful sight and everyone should at least one, come here to witness the pure magic.

Categories
Asia Festival Travel Trends

The taste of Comic Con in India

San Diego in the United States has become a very important place for some reason, and that reason is the annual event that takes place there and goes by the name Comic-Con. The event happens to be a colorfully organized festival like the show where comic book nerds showcase their love to their all-time favorite comic book characters. San Diego has made it famous and as a result, it has been stated to spread its wings in other countries as well. India is the new on the line. But given the fact that Indians don’t have as much comic book superheroes to cherish, does the even hold any significance? Let’s read further and find out.

It’s a two-day event that mostly takes place in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad or Bangalore. The main purpose of hosting this event is to bring the comic book lovers, creators, and publishers under the same roof in order to exchange the mutual respect and admiration. Indian comic book scene wasn’t as big until a few years ago. However, there are still traces of the time when the Indian comic book industry was flourishing with the arrival of some beloved characters such as Chacha Chaudhary, Super Commando Dhruv, Nagraj, Bankelal among many others. But somewhere in between, the whole industry got lost while trying to follow the route taken by the international giants such as Marvels and DC comics. But over time, the publishers understood the fact that Indian sensibilities are different than rest of the world. Comic-con is an attempt to make people more excited about the comic books and the colorful characters that have the potential to tackle any other international superhero.

The first ever comic con in India was organized in the national capital New Delhi in 2011. The event was semi-successful and as more and more people are getting aware of that, the crowds are increasing wherever it takes place. The Indian popular culture is in its adolescent state and with the arrival of the international publishers and artists in the Indian comic cons; the future seems all bright for the Indian fans that go to either Iron Man or Superman and have forgotten Doga and Jwala.

Cosplay is another concept that is getting wildly popular with the Indians as they dress up as their favorite superheroes. This fun event has just started to attract the Indians and is expected to go big in the coming years.If you’re a huge fan of comic books and superheroes, it’s time to plan for the upcoming event of Comic Con 2016. Book your tickets and enjoy the event to the extreme. Experience the magical comic world, look around and see your favorite comic character came alive in the real world.

Categories
Culture Festival North India

Holi in Barsana

Holi is known as the festival of colors and all around fun, but here in Barsana, the birthplace of Radha, Holi is having a completely different facade. The enjoyment level is no less, though. The Barsana village happens to be about 42 kilometers away from Mathura, the birthplace of lord Krishna.

The men have carried on the routine that has been there for ages and they make their trip to Barsana, in order to play Holi with the local girls and women. They play with colors but that is not the case with the women, they are there all prepared to welcome them with sticks. Some men get in the race of hoisting a flag over Radhikaji’s temple but they too get beaten up quite bad instead.

This is all in fun and there are no hard feelings. After all, the festival is popular for the pure fun that it provides all over the country. But as you can guess, in Barsana, the picture is completely different. But then there is the catch that many places nearby, especially in Haryana, the festival gets celebrated with more or less the same brutality as the Holi in Barsana, which also happens to be known as Lathmaar Holi.

But the real fun starts when the men from Mathura plan in advance about how to save themselves from the brutal hits they are going to get. However, they keep in mind the very fact that they can just not retaliate, they can just find ways to avoid the brutal beatings. The spirit of Holi is felt at its very best when despite all the planning, some men get captured by the women of Barsana and receive a tough dose of unconventional love from the women and the girls. And when the time is tougher for them, they are forced to wear women attire and roam around the village. Sounds like quite a lot of fun, but not for men really. The spirit and the level of enthusiasm in people about the festival are magnetic and there is not an ounce of doubt about why a lot of people from different parts of the country come to witness and participate in the madness. 

Poets like Surdas have mentioned in detail how Krishna was also made to suffer these atrocities once. He was known to be quite a charmer and usually went to Barsana to play Holi with the women there, especially Radha. He once got captured and received the severed beating from the women and was made to don a saari and makeup.

Despite all the fun, there are some things that do harm the spirit of the festival. The government has done enough to keep that away. A huge open ground has been allotted to the festivities on the outskirts of the village, where the men and women play freely. The celebrations go on for about a week.

This enthusiastic display of colors and happiness is what makes the country colorful and magnetic. In the recent few years, a few foreigners are also seen dwelling themselves in the colors of Holi and enjoying themselves with an open heart. That is when they give their heart to this beautiful charmer of a country.

Categories
Beaches Western Ghats

Scoot out for a much awaited break at Malvan

Malvan happens to be a picture perfect fishing port town located in the Konkan district of Maharashtra. Apart from the beaches where you could relax and spend some wonderful time, the place also has a few historical monuments which make the place perfectly balanced on the scale of natural and manmade beauty.

How to reach

Dabolim in the northern part of Goa is the nearest airport to the place which is a few hours ride away. Kudal is the nearest railway station belonging to the Konkan railways and located about 30 kilometers from the town. However, buses remain the best option to travel to the place. Mumbai-Goa highway is a clean road and Malvan is located at about 35 kilometers west of the highway, so getting there shouldn’t be a problem.

Places to visit

Among the many reasons to visit Malvan, here are a few that may compel to form your next trip around the beautiful fishing port.

Sindhudurg Fort- The great fort was built by the great Maratha warrior Shivaji in 1664. The ferry services which will take you to the fort from the town begin their rounds early in the morning from 8 AM. The fort is a magnificent monument full of reminiscent of the era this fort belongs to.

Rock Garden- After a day well spent watching the monuments and sightseeing around the place, Malvan is the best place to relax on the rocks. situated near the Arase Mahal, on the rocky shore of Malvan, it is a marvelously built garden overlooking the Chivla beach. enjoy the calm of the seaside and the sunset and sunrise amidst its all green and raw vibe, while you are here.

Tarkali- Located at a distance of about 6 kilometers from Malvan, is Tarkali. The very long and narrow stretch of the beach is the biggest attraction of the place and being very close to Malvan, the place deserves a visit.

Devbag- The long beach around the coast, an exquisite boat ride to the tsunami island is the biggest attractions of the place. The Sangam point can also be seen from here. Parasailing and other water sports add a lot more fun to the overall joy of having visited the place.

 Beaches Malvan is surrounded by striking beaches which are refreshing and relaxing and offer you a wide view of the calm sea. As many sea birds visit here in thousands the place is a great sight for the visitors.

Boat rides in Karli backwaters can be enjoyed by visitors. Scuba diving on the Dandi beach, located at around a 3 kilometers distance from the main Malvan bus stand, is one rather sporty thing to do in otherwise peace-loving town. However, the scuba diving facilities are not the best in the country, but coming at half the price of other places, it is definitely worth a shot.

Food

Malvan will offer you some of the most delicious seafood that you may have ever tasted in your life. Hotel Chaitanya near Malvan Bharad road is known for authentic Malvani food and offers some of the best-fried fish. There are other great places near the Malvan fish market which take your taste buds on an amazing roller coaster ride. Other restaurants to try include Atithi Bamboo, Swami Family Restaurant, Only Fish and Ocean’s Paradise.

Stay

Malvan has many hotels and resorts that remain booked almost all the time in a year. Ai beach home, Manorama Niwas, Sagar Sangam and the Tian beach resort stands out among the many other places to stay.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the place is from October to May and as the season approaches, you need to start finding all those fancy backpacks. Malvan acts both as a foodie’s paradise and a great tourist spot and one trip to the place is enough for you to fall in love with it.

Malvan serves as not just the perfect spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. With one of the best beaches in India and cheaper water sports such as at Tarkali, Malvan is a place that must be visited once in a lifetime.

Categories
Asia

The 6 Best Unconventional Holidaying Places Around Indonesia

Indonesia, the largest archipelago in the world offers a lot of diversity to its visitors. To most Indians, Indonesia means Bali but it has a host of other locations which are must visits while going to the place. 6 of them are listed below.

 Tana Toraja

Tana Toraja is loved for its special tribal culture. Situated in the Central Highlands of the Sulawesi Island, it is one of the places that celebrate death. One can see more action going on during a funeral here than during a wedding ceremony.  The countryside’s greenery, terraced rice plantations, spirit guardians and rock-cut tombs, and unique traditions make this place a must visit.

 Kawah Ijen

Kawah Ijen is the world’s most acidic lake. Located on the eastern end of the Java Island, it gives you the opportunity to experience one of Mother Nature’s most amazing creations and get to see the conditions where sulphur miners of the region eke out a difficult living for a paltry sum.

Karimun Java

Have you ever heard of a place where humans can swim along with baby sharks?! Well, the small equatorial islands of Karimun Jawa are one of such rare spots. Located amidst the rough waters between Kalimantan and the Java Island, Karimun Jawa is home to beautiful white beaches and exotic coral reefs. It is highly recommended to stay with a native family in their home here and cherish a relaxed holiday. Snorkelling and scuba diving are the most popular water sports that can be done here, while jungle trekking is quite popular on the island.

Gunung Merapi

Gunung Merapi is Indonesia’s most active volcano and goes up every 4th year. The eruption is often so heavy that drenches the entire UNESCO world heritage sites of Borobudur and Prambanan in tonnes of ash. Hiking to the top of this active volcano, watching the hot lava boil inside it and seeing the picturesque sunrise over the mountain landscape is an unmatched experience in itself.

Kintamani

Bali is known for its beaches and temples by everyone but a few of them know about a hill station that it has, called Kintamani which is located near the Batur volcano and caldera. This picturesque place is also home to the beautiful Pura Ulan Danu Batur temple. You should go here for its natural beauty, a nice temple experience, cool weather and a luxuriant green countryside indulgence.

Sumbawa

Conventionally, Bali is very popular among travellers for its surf breaks but if you are fond of surfing and wish for a quieter place than it, then Sumbawa is just the place for you! Located in the East Timor Sea at just the north of East Timor, Sumbawa offers a blend of deserted stretches of gorgeous beaches, beautiful surf breaks, and an experience that Bali might have offered about 50 years ago. This place is meant to be visited for the ultimate offbeat beach lover.

Do include the aforementioned places in your Indonesia itinerary next time!

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