Year: 2017

Categories
Asia Itinerary

Bangkok, the city of dazzling temples and spectacular palaces

For decades, people have always considered Bangkok to be the heaven for single men who are on a constant hunt for sensual massage parlors and the strip clubs that seem to be there on every other corner. Seldom do we come to hear about the natural beauty and a tourist paradise that this place is.

The capital of Thailand, Bangkok may very well be one of the busiest cities in Asia, courtesy of the tourists who crowd the place almost every time a year. But don’t let the flashy nightlife, shopping sprees; those naughty massages fool you because there is much more to the city. The place boasts a huge number of temples and religious places, busy markets and places to spend some nonflashy calm nights at, Bangkok offers way too much.

How to Reach

The city of Bangkok is served by two airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport, both of which are located about 30 km from the city center. It may take at least three hours to connect between them, as they are far-off from each other and one can expect congestion on the roads.

The cold season is the best to visit the place, given the fact that this is one of the hottest cities in the world.

Places to Visit

Rattanakosin- Often called the Old City; this is one island you should not be missed at all. It is the center of religious culture of the city. There are hundreds of temples and monuments to see in there.

The Grand Palace – Located in the heart of Bangkok, the Grand Palace on the banks of Chao Phraya River is one must see the sight. The Grand Palace is a splendid building and one of the most popular tourist attractions of Bangkok. A blend of Thai and European architecture, the Grand Palace which had remained the erstwhile residence of the Kings of Siam is used till date for royal ceremonies. It is a complex of several buildings, halls, gardens, and courtyards.

Dusit Palace- Built by King Rama V, this is a must visit place located in the Dusit district. The leafy and beautiful area pretty much reminds of the European designs and architecture. The place is huge which may take you at least a day to go over it.

National Gallery- Also known as the Queen’s Gallery, it happens to be one of the most famous art galleries spread across the city. Located on the Siam Square, it is nearby the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre which also is a great place to have a peek into the artistic scene of the country.

Lumphini Park- Lumphini Park located in Silom is the biggest park in the central part of the city. The park offers you a great way to release the stress that has to build up after a hard party night or a full tiring day shopping around.

Things to Do

Chatuchak is one of the most popular markets in Bangkok which brings together everything buyable under one platform, right from used vintage sneakers to baby squirrels. The area is home to more than 8000 market stalls.It’s a place where you can shop till you drop. If I advised reaching here early, ideally around 10 am, to beat the crowds and the heat.

The River of the Kings, the Chao Phraya River rambles its way right through the heart of Bangkok. The best way to allure this Bangkok attraction is through a river cruise or by renting a boat and carrying on the travel at your own speeds. Longboats can be rented from different piers and kids are sure to have a frolicking time.

Restaurants

With so many restaurants and street vendors offering Thai food, Bangkok is a foodie’s heaven. Bangkok is a cool and hip little place offering outstanding Thai food!

Street food in Bangkok is flavorsome, quickly delivered and super economical. You can usually relish a feast for fewer than 150 Baht!

Here are a few you should try

    1. Mezzaluna is a truly extraordinary fine dining restaurant, located inside the iconic golden ‘Dome’ at the top of the lebua hotel.

  1. Issaya Siamese Club Proudly located in the middle of a luscious green garden, this 100-years-old house host as wooden verandah and old fashioned staircase which right away sets a romantic mood, making it just the right place for duo dining.
  2. Le Du Restaurant – Le Du, located in the now fine-dining haven of Silom, offers highly creative cuisine by two youthful Thai-born chefs who have won over words of praises for their imaginative techniques and approaches.

The most booked places to Stay

  1. Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok
  2. Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
  3. Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn
  4. SO Sofitel Bangkok
  5. Grande Centre Point Hotel Ratchadamri
  6. lebua at State Tower
  7. Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit
  8. Grande Centre Point Hotel Terminal 21
  9. Mandarin Hotel Managed by Centre Point
  10. Banyan Tree Bangkok

It takes some good observant eyes to see the city in a whole new light and the few who have done it, have nothing but praises for the city.

Categories
Adventure Corporate Outings South India Treks Western Ghats

Adventure, nature’s beauty and fun at Jogigundi Falls

Situated in the heart of Karnataka’s dense Western ghats, Jogingundi Falls is one of the most loved tourist’s attractions, a scenic small but wide waterfall in Karnataka, about 3 km from Agumbe which is sometimes called the Cherrapunji of the south due to the amount of rainfall it receives. Therefore the waterfalls are blessed with a large volume of water flowing throughout the year. One of the main reasons why this fall is so popular amongst local people is its uniqueness. It is a completely different experience from what you normally see elsewhere in and around the region.

Unlike your traditional waterfall where water falls from a height or in multiple tiers, the cave is a unique one as this one flows out of a cave that runs through the hill and hence is known as a cave waterfall. This is what makes Jogigundi Falls a treat to your eyes. People are thrilled to experience the sheer excitement of a fall flowing out from the mysterious cave. The whole concept runs a chill down your spine and makes you feel the adrenaline rush. Tourists can indulge in a variety of adventures here. You can spend a whole day here basking in some other activities.

This picturesque destination basking in the glory of sparkling nature is situated about 4 kms from Agumbe. You will have to cover 3 kms by your vehicle and the last km should be trekked down. Trekking to reach Jogigundi Falls is not less than an adventure in itself. You will have to cross several steep and narrow trails.

Once you complete your trek down the trail you will be welcomed by a majestic natural pool brimming with loads of adventures. You can indulge in activities such as swimming. You can comfortably swim in the very pleasing swimming pool there in front of the waterfall, but be careful as the waters here are pretty deep, upwards of 50 feet and the edges of the pool have sharp rocky edges. It is advised that you don’t use soap, shampoo, detergent, and other chemical stuff while bathing in the pool. It will not only pollute the water but also harm the environment in many ways.

This exotic place is surrounded by green forests. It is made up of dark rocks. There is a small stream that you will have to cross to have a full view of the landscape. After crossing this stream, you will spot all small caves (holes) in the rocks below. You will be thrilled to see the water flowing from these caves.

There is enough water to swim in the front of the waterfall. However, the water here is as deep as 50 feet. So make sure that you take all the precaution before setting out to swim in the water. The edges of the rocks are sharp. You can collide with them anytime. Apart from indulging water sports, you can even set out to wildlife safari of your own style. There is lot to explore in the forest. You can spot some rare birds and animals too.

Local people in Agumbe explore the waterfall during dry season. They climb all the way up to the cave and jump from there to the pool. This is truly one of the most beautiful experience one can have.

Categories
Foodie

Savour pizzas with the best ingredients and freshest flavours at Jamie’s Pizzerias

If there was one name in the whole wide world that is constantly associated with the best pizzas, it would be Jamie Oliver. After the renowned chef started his chain in almost all the big cities all over the world, he arrived in India with some great recipes in Pizzas among other Italian dishes. Jamie’s Pizzeria, the UK-based international food chain is located in the Ambience Mall, Vasantkunj and is listed among the best pizza places in the city and around. The casual dining place opens up at 11 every morning and remains open until 11 at night.

The specialty about the place is the pizza base. A truly delicious pizza is if you can eat the base even if it has no vegetables on it and the base stands up to the pizza test very well well adding a new and delicious dimension to the pizza experience. The cost for two people is approximately Rs.800 that sounds pretty reasonable and comes without burning a hole in your pocket.

Ambience

The restaurant is located over a massive area of about 1000 square feet and provides an ample space to deal with a lot of customers at the very same time. The menu items are written on the blackboards from where you can order whatever you like. As you enter the Jamie Oliver’s first India venture, you can experience a warm ambience with buttery light and family-style tables. The place has retro styled tomato-red seats with a leather strap that represents both the friendliness and toughness that the Naked Chef is known for. All pizza lovers must surely check out the open kitchen concept where soft, doughy handkerchiefs are tossed into the air and a variety of pizzas are born and brought to your plate. We had a great time watching the delightful dough show. The beautiful hostess with shining yellow hair walks around and serves you the lovingly made pizzas with a welcoming smile.

Cuisine

Coming to the cuisines, the place is a must stopover for a variety of Pizzas and other Italian food items. And believe us when we say this, not many people are acquainted with Oliver’s magic. If you are an ardent pizza lover, there is no way in the world that you should miss the experience of dining at the place and have one of those amazing pizzas that they serve.

The Ginger beer and litchi juice were the first things we had and we didn’t regret. They were amazing, to begin with followed by some hand-stretched garlic bread with rosemary & an olive tapenade which warmed us up perfectly well before the pizza arrived. We ordered red rocket pizza which is a blend of tomatoes, mozzarella, rocket, and olives, cheddar and veg parmesan. The crunchy taste stayed in our mouths for a long time. The pizza was followed by desserts in form of ice cream and brownie. In the end, it was a perfect amalgamation of taste and aroma.

Highlights

Wine and ice cold beer are served to those who want to start or end the meal with some alcohol. The bar is amazing and beautiful to look at. The Italian essence you feel upon entering the place is one other major highlight of Jamie’s Pizzeria.

Jamie’s Pizzeria is for the die-hard pizza lovers who are not a big fan of American style pizzas and want to try the actual Italian flavors, the pizza recipes by famous Jamie Oliver.

Categories
Foodie Western India

The cafe scene in Darjeeling

Cafes in Darjeeling

As beautiful a place Darjeeling is for the nature lovers, it can also be seen as a foodie’s paradise if anybody wants to look at it that way. Everybody knows what exotic taste the home grown tea from here possesses. Other than the very delicious street food, carrying all the Bengali flavour, there are many different cafes in the city that are amazing. The new ones are opening up every day and it becomes hard to choose the best ones among them. But we have given it a shot and here is the list of top 5 cafes in Darjeeling that you must visit in order to satisfy your taste buds.

Gatty’s Cafe

Located on the famous Dr. Zakir Hussain road, this lounge cum cafe offers a lot of things to the visitors. From the shows of international and Indian cinema, delicious tea, some live music combined with some great food; this is one in all deal. From the homemade Indian cuisines to the international items such as pasta, sandwiches and pizzas, the place serves everything and as long as you stay here, there will be no moment of boredom. The great crowd in here makes the experience all the more vibrant.

Sonam’s Kitchen

Also located on the Zakir Hussain road, a few metres away from Gatty’s cafe, Sonam’s kitchen is also one other crowd puller in the place. The city is known for the tea, but the coffee right here in this little cafe will make you forget that fact. The coffee in your mouth is all you feel. They have an interesting collection of books and they deal mostly in the fast foods and stuff, but healthier and delicious to their core.

Foodsteps

The waffles and pancakes that are being served here are so delicious that people don’t mind standing in the lines to get their turns. The breakfast here along with a great cup of coffee is inhumanly tasty here. The different variety of the tea that gets served here reminds you very well of what this place is famous for. The waffles, grilled sandwiches and multigrain breads are the highlights of the vivid menu that includes purely vegan dishes. The Foodsteps is located at the Nehru Road.

Kunga’s

If the craving for some local food takes over, do visit Kung’s cafe located at the Gandhi Road. Deals mostly in the Tibetan meals, the noodles and the steamed momos here are just pure delicious. While Ranbir Kapoor, the bollywood actor, was shooting for his movie Barfi here, it is said that he fell in love with the food here and visited at least once a day despite the busy schedule.

Hot Pizza Place

HD Lama Rd is not known for so many good cafes but this one is an exception. Deals in Italian cuisines mostly but you can find almost anything here. Pasta, Panini, sandwich and noodles are the highlights of the restaurant and there are so many different varieties of pizza that one can get lost in all the taste and brilliant baking aroma.

Frank Ross Cafe

One of the very few restaurants in Darjeeling serving both the non veggies and the vegetarians alike is Frank Ross Cafe which happens to be located on the Mall Road. The global menu includes the native Indian dishes along with the international ones. A perfect amalgamation of class and style can be found here.

Revolver

As unique is the name of this cafe cum restaurant, so is its class. The gun themed place is sort of a museum for the tourists. Beetles are the biggest inspiration for the name of the place as it’s named after one of the most popular song from the rock band. Pancakes, mashed potatoes and soups along with a lot other items are the biggest highlights of the place. The cafe is located at Gandhi Road behind Union Chapel.

So these are the top 7 cafes one must visit during their next trip to Darjeeling. Delicious bites, piping hot coffee and friendly services in these cafes is sure to leave all the foodies in awe.

Categories
Adventure Inspiration Travel Tips Travel Trends

Letter to Indian Parents: Let your daughters travel solo

Dear Indian Parent,

We all know the bond Indian parents have with their kids. Moreover, the way they keep their child a part of the family even after he has become self-reliant and starts a family of his own. That bond between a parent and a child is incomprehensibly strong but the second you told your daughter that she couldn’t go on that weekend trip with her friends, you broke her heart.

We understand you are being protective. The world is a big harsh place but if you don’t let your child go out into the world, face those hardships, travel across borders and see the kindness of strangers, you will be robbing them of the simple joys of life.I understand your mentality of having your kid get good grades, join a stable job, start a family but

We understand your mentality of having your kid get good grades, join a stable job, start a family but traveling is not a ‘luxury’ for the rich like it was before. Now, it is a necessity for the wandering soul. Today, the youth is more curious and hates to be confined. You could see the wanderlust in your child’s eye when they mention some far off place. And you can see the sadness too when you shoot down their hopes at ever being there.

Today, technology had made it too easy to stay in touch and the internet has made it convenient to know all you can about the place you visit. So, even with all these precautions, if you don’t let the apple of your eye, get on a bus with a backpack and go seek out the greater perhaps, then what is the point of all those years of education and nourishment?

Humans weren’t meant for routine and staying at the same place. In the heart of every one is a little spark of passion towards seeing the whole world and its wonders. And life is the greatest teacher imaginable.

When you send your daughter to go see the world, she will come back a more compassionate, self-reliant and gentle soul than when she left. Despite all the fears of uncertainty that one is thrown in the midst of in the start, most of us, we make it in the end. We adapt and adjust. You pamper your kids, indulge their every wish, teach them to be fair, strong and kind but don’t allow them the freedom to ever be that. How can they be with you always behind them, supporting them when they fall, correcting them when they go wrong?

Some lessons, one needs to learn on his own. And the world is so wide, its secrets vast and beautiful. Don’t you wish to let your child witness all of it, before they go back to the mundane routine and stability which is a cage from which there is no escaping?

Being a travel blogger myself, this is the one question that I have come across a lot. I am an Indian. How do I persuade my parents to let me travel? Even self-reliant independent people have asked this question which makes me wonder, what keeps them from just walking out of their families and just doing what they want anyway?

Love and respect.

So, shouldn’t you consider their feelings as well? Yes, they will have to take on many responsibilities and be careful. There will be times when they struggle but in the end, they will come back with a smile on their faces and lots of experience tagging behind them. Even you would be amazed at the stories they will have and the transformation that would have occurred. They will become everything you wanted them to be, and more.

So the next time your child asks you, “Can I go on this trip?”

Say yes.

Happy Travelling

Ghoomophirosisters

 

Categories
Adventure Corporate Outings South India

A Drive to Pearl Valley, the popular picnic spot

One of the best ways to explore Pearl Valley in Bangalore is by driving to this precious gem in your car or bike. You get to experience the world that surrounds it with its majestic scenic views. However for a road trip to Pearl Valley, you got to keep a few things in your mind and plan your itinerary accordingly.

First of all, plan things in advance so as to avoid last minute rush. This way you will not forget things essential to your trip and save your experience from ruining. Plan your trip on a good weather day so that you can save yourself from applying sunscreens. Otherwise, you can really have sun burns as the distance to Pearl Valley from Bangalore is quite long.

Leaving early in the morning for the trip is advisable. It will help you avoid unnecessary traffic that you anyway will face during the afternoon on the highway. So at least have a good congestion free start by kicking off your trip in the morning.

On the way, you will pass through one of the most popular temples—Meenaskhi temple. You can stop here for a while to experience the serene surroundings and to let yourself drown into the silence of the peace. You are likely to get confused if you are driving to Pearl Valley for the first time. It has a number of cross roads. However, you can ask for directions to any passerby as it is very famous. Everybody knows it in Bangalore.

On the way, you will be required to pay a toll to enter a barricade. It costs Rs 30/- only. Remember, this is not a toll to the government. For parking, you will have to pay Rs 10/-.

You will not spot any restaurant and hotel on the way. However, there is a number of them at Pearl Valley. There is a privately run KSTDC restaurant beside an array of some pretty good shops. It is advisable that you visit this place with your own food and drinks arrangements. You might not like the menu of the hotel. Some of them are bars and pretty expensive. So pack your food before you leave for this place.

Once you reach Pearl Valley you realize why it so famous amongst nature lovers. It is one of the most popular picnic spots for people in Bangalore. This beautiful getaway boasts a number of sparkling waterfalls. The most interesting part is that the water falling from the valley, when it is splashing down on the rocks, will look like pearls. This is why this place has got its name Pearl Valley.

This exotic picnic is around 5 km away from Anekal, South Taluk of Bangalore.

Tips while you are there

  • It would be a good trekking place for young and adventurous visitors. So do try trekking once you are at this place. You will find many visitors climbing down the hills through the rocks and shouting in joy although it’s a quiet and calm place.
  • You can find many monkeys around at Pearl Valley so be careful while you are having your lunch.

The Pearl Valley can be described as a paradise for people who are fond of exploring natural beauty.

Categories
Adventure North India

Zanskar Valley, the remote corner of Ladakh is worth visiting for adventure lovers

Covering an area of 7,000 sq km and with a height that ranges between 3,500-7,000 meters, Zanskar is a semi-desert high-altitude tourist destination of Ladakh region. It mainly consists of the part that is situated along the rivers of Doda and Lungnak, the main tributaries of Zanskar River. Despite being one of the parts of Jammu and Kashmir, the valley has striking natural vistas.

Zanskar is bounded by the Himalayan Range in the southwest. That is why it is known as a ‘place wrapped with snow-clad peaks’. Though the place is known for trekking, rafting, and mountaineering, there are other tourist attractions too. Some of the famous attractions in Zanskar are Drang Drung Glacier, Phuktal Monastery, Zangla, Karsha Monastery, Zongkhul, Stongdey Monastery and Panikhar.

How to Reach

There is a weekly bus service that runs from Leh in Ladakh to Padum in Zanskar with a one night halt in Kargil. If seats are available, one can decide to travel to Zanskar valley in this bus. In the morning, buses commence from Kargil for Sankoo and Panikhar, villages in the Suru valley.

Nimu

Nimu, at an elevation of 3150 meters, is a village that is built along the bank of River Indus and is the end point of the river rafting activity in the Zanskar region and the beginning point of river rafting on the Indus River.

Drang Drung Glacier

The source of River Stod, the Drang Drung glacier, has an approximate length of 23 kilometers and an elevation of 4,780 meters. It is the largest glacier in the Ladakh- Zankskar region that is built near the Pensi La mountain pass.

Phuktal Monastery

Constructed by Gangsem Sherap Sampo in the 12th century, the Phugtal Monastery is one of the major tourist attractions in the Zanskar region because of its distinctive architectural work and construction. It has a library, prayer rooms and also houses 70 monks.

Zangla

A home to 150 lamas, the Zangla Monastery situated in the village of Tsa-zar near Zangla is famous for its collection of wall paintings. Further, Zangla is a prominent stopover on the Padum-Stongdey-Zangla-Karsha-Padum trip.

Zongkhul

The Zongkhul Monastery belongs to the Drugpa sect and was constructed by Naropa, who is believed to have meditated for 2 years at one of the caves in the monastery. It appears on the Padum-Kishtwar trek route and encompasses the great piece of artwork that belongs to the ancient age. It is home to 15 monks and has precious artifacts like the ivory image of Samvara, texts containing the spiritual songs, a crystal stupa, and thangkas. One of the murals of Zhadpa Dorje, which is 300-years-old, is quite splendid.

Stongdey Monastery

The Stongdey Monastery was constructed by Naropa’s disciple in the 11th century. It is 20 kilometers away from Padum and has over 60 monks. Further, it has seven temples that exhibit several artistic works. Nonetheless, the Gustor Festival, which is held in the eleventh month of the Tibetan calendar, is hosted in the Stongdey Monastery.

Panikhar

On the way to Zanskar from the Suru Valley, Panikhar is one of the most amazing inhabited areas in the Trans-Himalayan region. It is a refreshing stopover on the way to Padum. From the nearby Parkachik La one can enjoy the wide view of the glacier situated north face of the mighty Nun-Kun Mountain. Further, Panikhar is a hub for the trekkers and hosts a number of trekking routes.

Karsha monastery

The Karsha Monastery, which is also known as Karsha Chamspaling, was constructed by Phagspa Shesrab. The Karsha Monastery is the biggest and one of the most renowned pilgrimages in the Zanskar region that have ancient rock architectural works like the Avalokiteshvara temple, which widens the era of Rinchen Zangpo through its wall paintings. The monastery has a number of shrines and relics of Dorje Rinchen. It is also a resident to more than 100 monks. The area is also dotted with other monasteries like the Khagsar Monastery, Phagspa Monastery, and Purang Monastery.

Travel Tips

Zanskar remains cut off from rest of the world between November to May due to heavy snowfall and it is best visited between June to September when the road is free from snow.

On your excursion to Zanskar Valley, tourists could find accommodation along the way in campsites and homestays. Once you reach Kargil via Zozi La Pass, you could cover places such as the Kargil War Memorial at Drass and Tiger Hill View from a roadside Dhaba while relishing your lunch. While at Padum, you can cover places such as Sani, Stongdey and Karsha monasteries, Zang La Fort.

While at Zanskar Valley, spend the night by the river in the lap of the Greater Himalaya mountains and leave in the next morning.

The beauty of the Zanskar landscapes will change your definition of beautiful forever. It is an admired destination for the adventure lovers who board on to the adrenaline rushing journeys in trans-Himalayas every year.

Categories
Central India

The Queen of Satpura, Pachmarhi Hill station

MP has been recognized widely as one of the most beautiful Indian states to live in. Pachmarhi hill station in MP is the one and only hill station in MP and a popular tourist retreat, known for the Pachmarhi Cantonment. The Pachmarhi hill station is affectionately known as Satpura ki Rani and the title is well justified once you set foot there.

The amazing sceneries and visuals that surround you from all directions are mesmerizing. Pachmarhi’s elevation and the forests of the Satpuras, accompanied with streams and waterfalls, are striking and rich in wildlife.  The extravagant charm this place holds in unmatchable and add to that some amazing lakes, ponds and the trees. It’s easy to fall in love with the place.

Other than the visuals, there are some beautiful waterfalls and it also serves as quite a treat for the history enthusiasts and the archaeologists as the place also have some caves with ancient paintings. It has been said about them that these paintings were painted on these caves by the very first humans that appeared on the face of the earth about 10,000 years ago from now.

The nearest airport is the Bhopal airport, the state capital. While Pipariya, 50 kilometers away is the nearest railway station, reaching the place is not very hard. The road lines are well connected with the airport and the railway station along with the bus routes.

So what is it about the place that makes it one of the most sought after attractions in the entire state and in the country, in general? Let’s find out.

Priyadarshini point- British people are credited with discovering the point and it is quite visible in all the churches and the trademark architecture schemes. They turned it into a beautiful resort.

Jamuna Prapat- A magnificent fall that provides some pure drinking water to the locals. The bathing services in the pools here are very popular among the tourists and they could be seen taking dips every time in a year.

Apsara Vihar- A very beautiful picnic spot for the children and the lovers, there is a beautiful pool at the place. One has to take a barefoot walk 2 kilometers into the forest in order to reach the point.

Pandav Caves- The caves, if the legends are to be believed, provided shelter to the Pandavas when they were in the exile. These are beautiful and are historically significant as well for the Indian Archaeological Survey excavations.

Other than these places for sightseeing, there are many places where you can move to satisfy your hunger pangs. The cuisine served here is mostly Gujarati, Maharashtrian, and Jain. There are many dhabas and restaurants in the place but the one you will probably like the most is Kolkata Food Joint in the main Panchgani market.

There are many more pools and falls in the area that is worth a mention such as Bee fall, Duchess Fall, and the little fall. The place brings you pure peace of mind and bliss, away from the hassles of the city life.

Categories
Foodie

Elma’s Bakery in Hauz Khas Village is a quaint place with a real English feel to it.

Tailor-made to kick your taste buds with its exotic delicacies, Elma’s Bakery is an exotic destination to savor the real flavors of India in the heart of Delhi. The restaurant exudes warmth and mesmerizes with you with its soothing ambiance.

Radiant with its sparklingly fresh leafy setting, Elma’s Bakery serves you in style. It gets you an authentic retro feel in it delightfully delectable menu comprising pastries, cakes, and light meals. Overall, it is an ideal place to unwind and explore a chunk of life through Indian culinary journeys.

Location

Elma’s Bakery is situated right in the heart of South Delhi’s Hauz Khas Village, which is one of the most popular eclectic eating hubs in the neighborhood right now. The village reflects the charm of the bygone era with a host of historical monuments. The complex has an organized parking facility for vehicles to ensure no congestion. Besides Hauz Khas Village, Elma’s Bakery is also present at other locations including Lodhi Colony, Select Citywalk Saket, and Sushant Shopping Arcade, Gurgaon.

Don’t Forget To Try

Some of the most popular dishes that you must try at Elma’s Bakery include thin crust pizzas, pasta, hummus, falafel, and scrambled eggs among others. The place serves excellent drinks and cocktails as well. Try cranberry drinks and cold coffee. They are done so English that you will be blown away.

It is a paradise for cheesecake lovers. Their red velvet cake is the signature dish. Don’t miss out on the deliciously served moist chocolate cake. The Classic Genovese Pesto and fresh vegetables (Exotic Vegetables) thin crust pizza is the real attraction for the fans of Elma’s Bakery. With all the fancy teas such as black, green, jasmine and other floral infusions and great cakes, Elma’s Bakery is a pure delight.

What is Special?

Savor the New York style bagels and all sorts of bread ranging from baguettes to chocolate bread to bacon loaves. Relish the exotic American styled pies such as Butternut Maple and Pecan Pudding Pie.

Ambience

Eating at Elma’s Bakery in Hauz Khas Village is like taking a trip down the lanes of an old teahouse in somewhere England or in some patisserie in France. It sends you a soothing vibe with its flowery curtains, ivory handled silverware and crochet patterns. The interiors are antique victorian and the grand green piano leaves you spellbound.

Price

You can enjoy a meal for two at Rs 2,000 here at Elma’s Bakery, which is worth a single penny.

Quick Tip

In order to enjoy a quiet view of the Deer Park, you must visit here in the afternoon and relish a cup of afternoon tea and wholesome juices with delicious sandwiches.

The Verdict

With a host of American style Bagels, English styled scones, and French pressed coffee, Elma’s Bakery blends the exotic flavors from the foreign lands. It serves divine food for the Gods at the most affordable price.

Categories
Foodie North India

Dilli Haat, INA, a traditional village market that fully satisfies your love for crafts and food

Dilli Haat – an open-air craft bazaar cum food plaza that attracts many international and national tourists throughout the year in Delhi. You would be thinking why to waste your bucks without having the idea of how the place is. Right?

 

Here is Dilli Haat for you from the viewpoint of the visitors who visit the place often to buy authentic wares.

Middle-aged singles

  • Visited more than 20 times.
  • Say it is peaceful and relaxed.
  • The place is away from corporate hustle- bustle.
  • These people also come here for their passion of photography.

Family

  • Quite a safe surrounding
  • Dilli Haat- INA is better than other Dilli Haat
  • Prices are at least 50% higher but still eager to come back here.

Foreigners

  • Hotel staff’s always suggested them to visit the place
  • Happy that there are no pushy salesmen
  • Mostly are in search for textiles for their wife.
  • Found the prices cheap and appreciated the quality.

Senior citizens

  • They love morning time to visit the place.
  • The good place to buy gifts for people outside India.
  • Quality is satisfactory.
  • Happy with the variety of products available.

College students

  • The primary purpose is the availability of good food.
  • Love to see products from different states.
  • Prices are a bit high for students who are not earning yet.
  • One suggestion they give is to add theme music at the place.

Couples

  • They are regular visitors.
  • Most visits are for buying raw silk and silver jewelry.
  • They enjoy the shows organized by the authority.

Some key highlights: 

  • Dilli Haat, INA is said to be the best as compared to Dilli Haat- Pitampura, Dilli Haat Janak Puri and Suraj Kund Mela.
  • Occupies 6 acres of land which was salvaged by a land reclamation project.
  • Craftsmen who are registered with D.C.Handicrafts are eligible to find aØ place here.
  • Some of the exhibits includeHandcraftedØ items, antiques, rug and carpets, leather articles, silks, furniture, silver, pearl and shell jewelry, traditional footwear and fabrics from across India.
  • Food stalls are representative of many Indian states such as Nagaland,  Maharashtra, and Uttarakhand.
  • Festivals and events are held throughout the year in this place which also retains its rural look and feel.
  • People love the diversity of food at INA and some are regular to the place for the food & sight- seeing.
  • All the three Dilli Haats are administered centrally with DTTDC inviting bids for tendering stalls and exhibitions.
  • Stalls are only allotted to vendors selling ware created in cottage industries or by individual craftsmen/artists.
  • These have to be either handmade or created using traditional handlooms or casts.
  • Sometimes foreigners bargain too much for authentic and exclusive fabrics like Pashmina because of the image that ‘Indian sellers fleece foreigners’.
  • Cleanliness and ambiance of INA were appreciated by all.

Now I guess I have the right to say- if you are still untouched with the ambiance of Dilli Haat, you are missing out something.

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