Category: North India

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Inspiration North India Staycation wildlife

Into the Wild with Bagheera’s camp!!

Address– Kameshwarjee Road, Raghunathpura 306126, India

How to get there: It is about 160 km long ride from Udaipur by road. 

The name Bagheera has mainly become known because of the popular Indian children story ‘Jungle book’ but Bagheera is actually a South Asian name for Leopards.  Bagheera’s camp is a semi-arid wildlife camp homestay. Operated by the community itself, it preserves the flora and fauna of the place that was previously decimated and overgrazed. The place is at the same distance from Udaipur as from Jodhpur and is perfect for travelers wanting to have an authentic Rajasthan cultural, rural and local experience in the wildlife. An eco holiday for lovers of nature experiencing it in the rawest and authentic form but in a safe and healthy way.

Room: Though there were a few luxurious tents (as much luxury as you can get in the total wild) as well, we chose to stay in a room. The suite we were given was lovely but got too hot because of limited A/C. it was okay to handle since we spent most of the time wandering out or in the Verandah anyway. The scenery of Aravalli hills was beautiful. Though the room was pretty basic in facilities, we spent most of our time on safari and exploring outdoors. And it’s not like anyone would visit the place to live in luxury, we went to experience the wild and that we got.

Camp Site: There are no fences or anything by the campsite, just huge granite rocks to protect from harsh winds. There is a playground right near the site and we played volleyball there and walked barefoot on mud, looking at the bamboo plantations. The money that they earn from travelers staying here is used to maintain the Leopard reserve and so you know you’re helping a good cause. It was so refreshing to meet Princess Padmaja and her team who cared so much about the environment. It is asked of the people to be responsible and recycle waste instead of throwing it.

Food and hospitality: The food prepared is all from Ayurvedic ingredients, totally organic and we sat with the cook while it was being cooked, taking in the aroma as well as learning the tricks. The food is completely vegetarian and plentiful and the whole experience of eating under the stars is inexplicably pleasing. Oh, and we had the best cup of tea, ever. The whole staff which mainly consists of local tribesmen and villagers including the cook was very warm and took such good care of us that we didn’t feel like leaving the place. They treated us more like family than paying guests.

What to do there:

There is a Jodhpur Hunting style Camping Safari that led us into the wild. They took us out in jeeps at dusk and we spotted leopards along with a leopardess with two cubs. It was such a magnificent sight.  In the short safari that we had, we saw birds, desert fox, and crocodiles as well. Since we were more interested in bird watching, Princess Padmaja, our hostess stayed with us for hours enjoying the view.  We were also invited to a local village and saw the special sunrise celebration at a local temple nearby. That had to be the highlight of the whole trip, a real memorable view.

Highlights: The tribal people with their fascinating knowledge and talks, along with their livestock would have to be the highlight of our stay at Bagheera’s. While the wildlife provided the necessary thrill, the bonfire and BBQ sessions gave us peace of mind and relaxation. Moreover, you can’t help but admire Princess Padmaja and her family’s efforts of protecting the place.

The overall experience of us staying at Bagheera’s camp was wonderful. The picturesque views, warm hospitality, fascinating shades of nature have made an unforgettable mark on our mind and it wouldn’t be possible without Bagheera’s camp. The stories we got to hear about the leopards and how the place came to be added to the experience all the more. This place has something for everyone, the thrill for an adventurer, the peace, and inspiration for a writer and the local cuisines that dance on taste buds for the foodie. We recommend it with all our heart. Write us at ghoomophirosisters@gmail.com for your bookings to this unexplored gem in Jawai.

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North India Staycation

Budget Hotels/Camps near Tso Moriri Lake

It is not possible to find accommodation exactly at the banks of Tso Moriri lake because that area is reserved for migratory birds but you can opt for camping in Korzok village. You will still have a clear view of the beautiful lake in all its magnificence. Depending on your budget and the level of luxury you require, you can find accommodations ranging from Rs 700-800 per person to above Rs 5000. Since it is a remote area, your best options for accommodation are homestays or tents.

  1. Goose Homestay

Address: Korzok, right opposite the monastery/supermarket.

Price range: 700-1000 for a double bedroom

This is a moderate and homely place to stay with a view of the lake from all the rooms. The cost includes food so it is also cheap. The place is clean and comfortable. If you are looking for a place to fit in your budget and still give you all the comfort you require, this is the right place. You won’t get customer service like in a hotel but it has a good family environment.

  1. Mentok guesthouse

Address: Korzok, right opposite the monastery/supermarket.

Price range: 700-1000 for a double bedroom

Located right next to the above mentioned Homestay, this should be your second option if the other one is booked. The place is similarly comfortable with lake view and carpeted rooms. The homemade food is delicious and the cost is included in the room fare. Though both these homestays are equal in comfort and quality, Goose homestay is preferred by travelers.

  1. Norling Camp

Address: Karzok Tsomoriri Lake, Karzok Gompa

Price Range: Rs 3500 for a double bed

Though the tent is average and the food (cost not included) is not exactly up to the mark, this camp area is fairly close to the lake and shows a great view especially during the night. As it is in the corner, the reflection of moonlight on the lake and the scene that unfolds can be best seen from here.

 

  1. Tsomori Camp and Resort Tso Mori

Address: Korzok, Tso Mori

Price Range: Rs 2500-3000 for the double bedroom without meals.

This place is closest to Tso Mori lake with luxury tents as well as rooms depending upon your preference and budget. The place is clean and comfortable with attached toilets. Hot water is also available in buckets. You can always try to bargain for a lower price unless you have pre-booked. There are many discount options available on websites too but do not pay anything in advance.

  1. Hotel Lake view

Address: Tsomoriri Lake Karzok

Price Range: Rs 5000 and above for a double bed

The room can accommodate up to 3 guests. They have free parking facilities and free WiFi. The breakfast is included in the package. If you think that a Hotel is a perfect place for you, the most luxurious place you can find in such remote place is Hotel Lake view. As the name itself suggests, they have a great view of the lake that you can enjoy through the window.

Places to avoid:

Nomadic life Camp: The place is too expensive and not worth it. If you bargain your way into a lower cost, they take it out on you through not providing good services.

Golden Mark camps: Extremely cold and the arrangements are not good. Avoid the place.

Additional Tip would be to avoid visiting during the winter season as it would be harder to find accommodation since camping would be out of the question. Another thing to remember is you can always bargain at these places. Reach the place early (before sunset) so if one place doesn’t pan out, you have other options to explore.

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North India Spiritual Hubs

Kashi Vishwanath Temple the center of faith for millions of Hindus

Located right there in the heart of holiest of holy city Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath temple is one very important pilgrim for the Hindus all over the world. Varanasi is the oldest civilized city in the entire world and there was the time when students from all over the world who were seeking the all-around education, used to come to the city. The religious centre of the country, Kashi or Varanasi’s heart lies in the Kashi Vishwanath temple.

The temple is old and it has faced some extreme conditions over the years and still it is there, standing tall, helping millions of people from all over the world in attaining moksha, the liberation from Maya and the true freedom from the vicious cycle of life and death.

Some less known facts

The temple was built in 1490 and since then, it has seen many different rulers having their own concept about the religion and spirituality. Call it a blessing of the holy river Ganga, that flows just on the side, the temple faced it all and is standing right there in all its grandeur. While all other temples were destroyed by moguls and then remade again, this one survived everything. Mogul emperor Akbar gave the permission to build the temple and the final shape and restoration work was done by Rani Ahilya Bai Holker. Aurangzeb had destroyed the temple and built a mosque in its place. The ruins of the old structure can also be seen even today.

Sightseeing

The architecture of the temple is an engineering marvel in itself. The golden chhatra at the top of the temple is known to be quite auspicious and it is said that one who is able to get a glimpse of the chhatra, their wishes get fulfilled within days. After the temple was rebuilt by the queen of Indore, Raja Ranjit Singh from Indore donated a lot of gold to the temple in order to pay his respect to Lord Vishwanath. The towers of the temple are about 15.5 metres high and are just magnificent to look at. The temple is also having an inner sanctum that is having a linga made up of black stone that happens to be placed in a silver altar on the floor. Towards the south of the temple, there are three little shrines and around the temple, there are five shivlingas and together they are known as Neelkantheshwar temple.

The temple is open to the visitors all around the year and they come from all over the world. You can guess its popularity just by looking at the sheer number of foreign devotees. Five aartis are performed in the temple every day and in case you are planning on witnessing them, this is a sight you will never forget in this life at least.

Best time to Visit

The temple is open to the visitors all around the year yet.October and November are the months when the festivities make it this temple all glowing and enthralling.

Visitors flock from come from all over the world and you can guess the popularity by merely looking at the sheer number of foreign devotees.

The Aartis

Five aartis are performed in the temple every day. Their timings are as below

  1. . Mangala Aarti :- 3.00 – 4.00 am (Morning)
  2. . Bhoga Aarti :- 11.15 am to 12.20 pm (Day)
  3. . Sandhya Aarti :- 7.00 to 8.15 pm (Evening)
  4. . Shringara Aarti :- 9.00 pm to 10.15 pm (Night).
  5. . Shayana Aarti :- 10.30 pm -11.00 pm (Night).

How to Reach

In order to reach the temple, one has to pass through the Kashi Vishwanath Gali. The Gali is famous for its shops selling pooja items and sweets. Ladies can stop by the popular ladies corner in that gali. After the darshan of Lord Shiva, devotees can also go out on an affordable shopping spree.

Varanasi railway station is the best way to approach the temple which is only 5 km from the temple. If you are commuting from anywhere in the city, it is ideal to board a taxi or an auto rickshaw for reaching the place.

Any months all around a year is good to visit the city. But around October and November, the festivities make it all glowing and engrossing.

Categories
North India Rejuvenate

Lakes of Kumaon Valley

The Lakes of Kumaon hills lie in Uttarakhand which is also known as the “Lake District” of India. Amidst the beautiful mountain divisions of Kumaon are these four incredible lakes. Apart from the most popular Nainital lake, there are other big and small lakes too. It is a wonderful experience to walk around these lakes and seeing the tourists enjoying the views and boating while we did the same.

  1. Nainital Lake.

Nainital Lake is the famous lake among tourists since it lies in the district of the same name. This is the spot for your picnic and hill station desires. It is a kidney-shaped lake with hills surrounding it. You can sit at one point and just enjoy the panoramic view of the mountains, the lake and the reflection upon the freshwater surface. The surroundings of the lake were as rich in flora as the lake in Aquafauna.

  1. Bhimtal Lake

Bhimtal Lake has its roots in Hindu Mythology as it is named after one of the Pandavas ‘Bhim’ and it is said that Pandavas came here during their exile. There’s a temple called Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple belonging to that Pandava and the Banyan tree in the middle of it shows how old the temple really is. There is also a hill called “Hidimba hill” nearby named after Bhim’s wife.

The best time to visit the lake is during early morning as you can walk around and breathe the fresh air with no one but the birds to keep you company. There are a few platforms where you can see the lake in its full glory. The water was crystal clear and the hills reflected in it looked magnificent. There is also an island in the middle of Bhimtal lake which is, in fact, an aquarium that you can reach via a boat ride.

  1. Nakuchia Tal

Located at the mere distance of 4 km away from Bhimtal, this is a comparatively smaller lake. The lake is irregularly shaped and you have to be there at sunset to fully enjoy the different views at each step. This lake is also known as the “lake with nine corners”, though we were unable to count the exact corners. It is the deepest lake of them all and the valley offers many adventure sports activities like paddling, yatching that you can indulge in. There is also a Lotus pond near Nakuchital filled with lotus flowers of different colours.

  1. Sat Tal lake

The name ‘Sat Tal’ itself indicates that this lake is a group of 7 lakes. These are Hanuman Lake, Ram Lake, Sita Lake, Lakshman Lake, Bharat Lake, Garuda Lake and Nal Damyanti Lake.  These are the seven freshwater lakes that are all interconnected to each other and as the name suggests, it is believed that Lord Ram stayed near this lake during his exile.

The lake surrounded by tall oak and Pine trees offers a mesmerizing view. Along with good spots to eat up, there was a zip line where we saw people getting dipped into the lake and joyously cheering. Ram Lake and Hanuman Lake are easily accessible by road but we had to go down a hill to reach Nl Damyanti Lake. When we saw the Garuda Tal Lake, we were stunned by its beauty. It sat like an aquamarine bowl within the trees and since they call the area nearby Dev Bhoomi, we could actually feel the heavenly presence.

A walk around these lakes is just simply therapeutic and you feel one with nature. Since they have become a popular tourist spot, there are all kinds of facilities available.

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Corporate Outings North India

What is it that you would not like to miss in Chandigarh?

Chandigarh, the city beautiful, as the name suggests has beautiful destinations to be visited and cherished. With an amalgamation of scenic beauty, historical monuments, and religious places, the city boasts of all that you would like to take back home as memories. Following is a list of places that must be included in your Chandigarh itinerary.

 National Gallery of Portraits

Established in Chandigarh’s Sector 17, the National Gallery of Portraits is a memoir of India’s independence struggle. It depicts the journey of freedom struggle through photographs of historic events and freedom fighters. It also houses speeches of great leaders along with artifacts, documents, and sculptures that date back to the freedom struggle era. The film showed on the freedom movement in India at the gallery is not to be missed.

The Tower of Shadows

The Tower of Shadows was built by Mr Le Corbusier- the creator of Chandigarh- in Sector 1 and is a monument that augments the beauty of the city. Its architectural brilliance intends to demonstrate Le Corbusier’s theories of sun control. The tower captures the shadows formed with the sun’s movement. It is located between the Parliament and the High Court.

Open Hand

Besides the Tower of Shadows, is Le Corbusier’s another monument of Open Hand. It is Chandigarh’s emblem and signifies the principle of ‘open to receive and give’.

Although the city houses many such Open Hand sculptures, the one that you should not miss visiting is located at the Capitol Complex that is 26 metres high. This structure was specifically designed to move in the wind’s direction. Therefore, you would need to keep that in mind while clicking pictures there.

Sukhna Lake

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Sukhna Lake is one of the best spots of Chandigarh and is regarded as the weekend’s hot destination. This place is to be definitely visited if you are looking out for some peace and tranquillity. There are many activities that can be undertaken there as the Rock Garden and a golf Course are located on the either sides of the Lake. So enjoy a stroll at the lake and the cool breeze after a visit to any of the other two nearby spots.

Rock Garden

Founded by Mr Nek Chand, the Rock Garden is one of the most popular tourist spots in Chandigarh. It is a compilation of sculptures built from waste materials such as ceramic, bottles, electrical waste etc. After remaining hidden for almost 18 years, it is great that now it is available for people to see and appreciate. It is truly a treat to the eyes and you would be left awestruck by Mr Chand’s creativity.

Zakir Hussain Rose Garden

One of its kind in Asia, the Rose Garden is a must visit during your stay in the city of Chandigarh. It was established in 1967 and named after India’s former President, Zakir Hussain. There are about 50,000 rose bushes here with almost 1600 varieties of roses along with about 17,000 other plantations. It becomes a major attraction of the city especially in March when the annual Festival of Gardens is conducted here. A number of competitions are held during the festival such as landscaping, Rose Prince and Princess, photography, etc.

Pal Dhaba

The oldest eatery of Chandigarh, Pal Dhaba, apart from being loved by the locals has been very famous amongst Bollywood celebrities too. It is divided into 3 different dining sections, among which the roadside sit- out is the most demanded one. The food is alluring and delicious; a perfect end to a hectic day! 

Getting There:

While you are traveling from Delhi, a place is hardly 300 Kms( approx. 266 Kms) and you would not want to miss the beautiful drive across the highway. For people coming from other places, Chandigarh does have an airport but most of the flights are from Delhi and hardly any direct flight to the place. One may also travel via train “Shatabdi express. Apart from this, any bus going to Shimla from Delhi does have a stop at Chandigarh and Himachal Tourism has regular buses plying to the most planned city of the country.

Where to Stay:

The hotel accommodation in Chandigarh City is purely based on the person’s budget. You may choose from Luxury retreats to budget hotels to business hotels, totally depending on the amount you would like to shell off from the pocket.

So when are you driving to Chandigarh!!

Categories
Corporate Outings Culture Deserts Itinerary North India

48 Hrs in Jaipur via #ghoomophirosisters’ lens

The pink city ‘Jaipur’ is a traveler’s delight and no one call their trip to Rajasthan complete without staying in Jaipur for at least two days. Jaipur doesn’t only represent the beauty and grandiosity but is actually Rajasthan’s symbolic state.

The royal Rajasthan exists in its truest form in this city, still preserved after all the years. We the #ghoomophirosisters got a chance to first-handedly see this grandeur during one of our backpacking trips and had a close look at the city’s beauty. We took flight from Delhi to Jaipur. We chose to stay at Radisson Blu, Jaipur.  So while you visit the city, here are a few recommendations from our experience to help you explore :

Must See:

Hawa Mahal: This widely recognized facade of red and pink sandstone Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds is Jaipur’s most iconic landmark. Within the hidden chambers of this palace, the royal women would often observe the street secretly, and it was all possible through the latticework openings of the palace. This five-storeyed palace is designed in a pyramidal style, as an example of Mughal architecture and its finesse.

Nahargarh Fort: Nahargarh Fort is a striking piece of architecture built on the edge of Aravalli hills. The was a summer palace for the royal families and the fort has a main palace inside it called Madhavendra Bhawan. Apart from it, there are nine other living spaces with the fort that are double-storeyed. Not only are the views from Nahargarh Fort of Jaipur city breathtaking, but it is also connected to Jaigarh Fort. The marble engravings and royal frescos on this fine example of Indo-European architecture are also visible on the interior walls.

Amber Fort: The undeniably charming Amber Fort is set on a hilltop. Both the size and structure of this 15th-century fort are impressive. The path to the fort lies passes through imposing ramparts and cobbled pathways, leading to its gates through which it can be accessed. The Mughal style architecture is visible through its golden frontage combined with elaborate interiors. The ornate archways lead to chambers that have mirrorwork ceilings and hand painted walls and are expansive in size. You can visit the ‘Diwan-e-Aam, or ‘Hall of Public Audience’, the Diwan-e-Khas, or ‘Hall of Private Audience’, and also the Sheesh Mahal, the ‘Mirror Palace’ that are housed inside the palace. Do not miss the light and sound show that glorifies the splendid fort some more.

Jantar Mantar: Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observation site that witnessed the scholarly brilliance of the 18th century. This one of a kind UNESCO world heritage site has the world’s largest sundial along with 20 other instruments.

City Palace: City Palace is one of the Rajput style architectural marvel built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh.  Its design is complete with layers of chambers and halls. The royal family of Jaipur still resides in the palace even today and a portion of the palace remains inaccessible to visitors. But visitors may wander Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas and Maharani Palace. A fine collection of artifacts are also preserved in the museum inside City Palace and the palace houses a temple as well.

Perfect Do’s

Visit an Elephant Camp: A privately owned forest and wilderness camp spread over 160 acres are situated behind Amber Fort. Mamy domestic animals, camels, and elephants have made it their natural habitat and visitors may ride on the elephant back to explore Aravali Forest. They can also ask about the caring routines of these gentle giants along with trying their hand at bathing them.

Shop for Local Handicrafts: Jaipur is brimming with local bazaars filled with things to buy. There isn’t anything you can’t find here, from clothes, shoes, handicrafts, jewelry to pottery, spices and home furnishings. And you’ll love them all. Get ready to loosen your pockets if you plan to visit one of the popular marketplaces like Baapu Bazaar and Johari Bazar.

Watch a Polo Match:  The upper echelons of society in Jaipur continue to patronize yet widely play the ‘game of kings’ polo. While it may be hard to get your hands on the invites to an exclusive polo match, the city’s polo clubs like Ramgarh Resort & Polo Complex or Jaipur Polo Club would let you watch a match, free of cost.

Block Printing at Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing: The age-old tradition of hand block printing is still preserved in Anokhi Museum of Hand printing which was established solely for the preservation of this art. This art is still practiced by most of Jaipur’s artisans. At the Anokhi Museum, you can witness the intricate workings of this art and get educated while block printing artisans are at work to keep this endangered art alive. The visitor can also buy these handcrafted merchandises that are locally made.

Best Eating Joints

Ghewar: LMB Bazaar in Johari is a popular eatery to try out this delicacy. It is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Known to be a traditional Rajasthani sweet, it is circular in shape and deep friend, laden with almonds as well as pistachios.

Kachori: This sweet or savory fried snack has tea as its best companion. Pick up a box of pyaaz Kachori from Rawat ki factory while in Jaipur. This Kachori is one if their specialties and too delicious to pass up.

Daal Baati: Daal Baati is one of the most popular dishes of Rajasthan and most local eateries in Jaipur serve it. It is a dish of daal served with baati (wheat rolls). The best way to eat it is when it is served hot, seasoned with pure ghee.

 When to Go

During its three distinct seasons- Summer, Winter, and Monsoon, Jaipur experiences extreme weather.

October to March: Since the summer heat has disappeared by this time, it is the best time to visit Jaipur. While December and January may be extremely cold and dry because winter is at its peak at the time, the temperature is better in February and March. This pleasant weather would be the ideal time to enjoy your holiday.

July to September: High humidity along with the hot weather, this is the Monsoon season.

April to June: Summers in Jaipur can be brutally hot with the temperature rising up to 40C. May and June are the hottest months.

Getting There

By Air: Located approximately 12 kms from the city centre, in Sanganer is Jaipur international Airport. It is well connected to flights from all across India as well as a few international destinations like Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Muscat.

 By Road: Many Air-conditioned, as well as non-air conditioned buses, are run by The Rajasthan Road Transport Corporation from nearby towns and cities. The National Highways connecting Delhi and Gujarat make for a smooth ride if you are driving to Jaipur.

By Train:  The city’s largest railways station, Jaipur Junction has direct trains FROM major cities of India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai as well as Kolkata. For a truly grand experience, enjoy the scheduled stop in Jaipur by Palace on Wheels.

Getting Around

There’s no problem for transportation in Jaipur since both public and private transport is readily available. Take your pick among air-conditioned radio cabs, cycle rickshaws or local buses. Jaipur metro is still in its first phase of rapid transit system. It covers the track from Mansarovar to Chandpole Bazar which is 9.6 Kilometres

What to Pack:

  • The temperature may rise up to 40C so carry lightweight cotton clothing in summer.
  • Mosquito repellent, sunhat sunscreen, and sunglasses are the basic essentials along with a good pair of walking shoes.
  • Winter can be brutal and temperature can drop to 4C. Pack a Jacket for harsh winter nights.

The royal life experience awaits you in Jaipur. Like the city’s warm and blushing hues, embrace the architecture, fine cuisine, and hospitality of people.

So when are you packing your bags to Jaipur!!

Categories
Adventure Corporate Outings North India Staycation

Walk in the clouds in the hills of Kuthar

Located in the royal estate of Kuthar in Kasauli, this resort is 25.7 km from Shimla. Chandigarh airport is the nearest one and is 37 km away from the resort. The Spa and resort are a new construction within Kuthar Heritage Fort which is an 800-year-old property.

Location:

The main highlight of the place has to be the location. We literally got to stay inside a royal estate and though, we weren’t lucky enough to meet the current Rana Mr Arun Sen, just knowing that we were in presence of royalty was enough. Amidst the fresh Himalayan air and beautiful architecture, how can one not be happy? Plus the beautiful garden area, arches, pillars, temples and colonnades are a nice cherry on top. However, the Tanya, part from current management team has been really helpful during our entire stay.

Accommodations & Dining

The room had elegant interiors of the place with modern amenities and a spacious bathroom. There were wonderful paintings on the wall and traditional looking chairs and table. The cream and brown contrast in colour was soothing to eyes and we spent our night comfortably in the room. The window opens to a garden view and with the fresh breeze, it was a refreshing experience. The nicely furnished room with LCD TV, WiFi (at the reception), Tea and coffee maker, toiletries included made us feel pampered. Glimpses from our room

Story Behind the Scenes

Though the resort is a new construction, it derives its inspiration from the 800-year old fort with wonderfully carved wooden ceilings. That mixes luxury and simplicity in one. The Kuthar ambiance is present throughout as you walk to the games room or the tea lounge. In fact, the main building has been built over what was used as the horse stable years ago and you can sense it from the architecture. Management has ensured the place keeps the essence of heritage and this is why even furniture of the rooms has been adapted from those times.

Things to Do

The resort has all facilities to keep you engaged during your stay. There is a Games room where we spent some of our time playing Darts. There were also other games like Table Tennis, Carrom Board, and Billiards. But since we felt more adventurous, we decided to go Mountain biking afterwards. The resort had some on-site cross country trails, incredible road cycling areas, and downhill biking trails.

Another highlight was the jungle walk in the lush vine forest where we spotted beautiful birds. We saw a few people shooting cans as well though we weren’t specifically interested in it ourselves. We were lucky to visit small 800-year-old Vishnu temple during our jungle walk. You may also opt to take a walk to the organic farms too.

This small video will definitely tempt you to pack your bags for Alcor resorts in the upcoming weekend.

Relax, Rejoice & Rejuvenate

After the tiring day, it was all we could do to control ourselves before jumping into the pool. The time spent soaking in the pool truly rejuvenated us and took the tiredness away.  And then a Thai Massage and body scrub soothed our skin. The pampering body scrubs made our skin glow afterward. The fresh teas in the tea lounge also added to the calming and peaceful experience.

You can also opt for Yoga and meditation or like us, just sit on the garden benches enjoying the scenery and just living in the moment. The view of mountains and trees from here was just breathtaking.

Highlight

The best part about the resort had to be the package system that includes meals and all activities, so afterward; you don’t have to pay a dime. The staff was always courteous and welcoming. They greeted us with warm smiles and polite words always. The food itself was delicious as well. Each meal was freshly prepared and up to mark. Not to miss, spa & feet, reflexology was indeed the highlight of the stay.

Ghoomophiro Verdict

Alcor Spa & resort is the perfect place for relaxing and rejuvenating. The best place to stay if you are in Kasauli. We had our fun and there is no place that you can do better than this. Take a respite from your everyday life and come here for luxury and comfort.  Stay in the bar lounge on comfy sofas, walk in the garden, get a massage and enjoy being treated royally.

Categories
Architectural Corporate Outings Culture Historical North India

Tryst with Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh Fort popularly known as Chittor Fort is the Pride of Rajasthan. It is one of the largest forts in India and counts as a World Heritage site. It is spread over an area of 691.9 acres over a hill that is 180m in height. The fort is of great historical importance as it was ruled by the Mewar Kingdom since the 7th century. During the rule, there have been three prominent attacks on the fort by Muslim rulers such as Allauddin Khilji, Bahadur Shah and Akbar. The entry of the Chittorgarh Fort is by crossing four gates called ‘Pol’. The main gate is known as ‘Ram Pol’.

What makes Chittorgarh Fort so different from the rest of the forts in Rajasthan is that the build of the fort is pure Rajputana and there is no Mughal Art mixed with it. The architecture and even the stones tell the story of the great Mewar. Unlike Jaigarh Fort or Ajmer Fort, the palace is not in pristine conditions. In fact, most of it seems like nothing but a glorified ruin but those ruins tell the stories of great war and bloodshed. During those times of attacks, firstly by Allauddin Khilji when he defeated Rana Ratan Singh, the fort suffered great destruction and the soldiers lay down their lives trying to protect their kingdom. It is believed that Khilji led the attack in order to make Rani Padmini (wife of Rana Ratan Singh who is believed to be the most beautiful queen of Rajasthan) and make her join his Harem. When it was clear that there was no way to victory, the queen along with other royal women and some commoners decided to accept death as their fate instead of bowing down to some other ruler and facing the dishonour of defeat. They preferred to die in the Rajputana way of Jauhar (dying on a pyre by jumping into the fire). Again with the other two attacks, the walls of the fort heard war cries of soldiers and the echoes of women folk were heard as they took their own lives. Well, ultimately no matter how many times they were defeated, the fort was won again by Mewar rulers.

There is also another Mythological importance of this fort related to a popular figure ‘Meera’ who was a saint in love with Lord Krishna and who spent her life devoted to the same. She believed Lord Krishna to be her husband and there is a temple called ‘Meera Temple’ within the grounds of the fort where she used to chant hymns, dance and worship Lord Krishna. It is said that this is the same temple where she totally submerged herself into holy matrimony with God.

Another part of the fort is the Vijay Stambha (Victory Tower) which has nine-storeys and is 122 ft tall. It was used to keep an eye on the enemy’s army. It ensured their victory in many attacks and therefore was named Victory tower. Among the premises of the fort, there is also a Jain temple and a Peepal tree has been planted. The tree itself is of great importance as it is said to give relief to the many wandering souls in the fort. With such atrocious deaths that occurred between those walls, it brings a sense of calm to the place.

Located nearby is Fateh Prakash palace that was built by Rana Fateh Singh. From there, The Gaumukh Reservoir is visible which offers a picturesque view.

In the end, I would like to add that Chittorgarh Fort is an important part of the History of Rajasthan and anyone visiting there should absolutely walk among those walls.

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
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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