Category: Rejuvenate

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Asia Rejoice Rejuvenate Relax Travel Tips Travel Trends

Go travel to these Visa free countries

Everybody knows that getting a visa on an Indian passport can be a real pain. We all wish we could go on a vacation just like that, just pick a destination, plan a trip, pack our bags and simply go for it without any hassle. God, why is it not that easy!!

The process, in reality, requires first to look for options then choose a getaway based on the size of the hole it will burn in your pocket. By chance, if the chosen place is abroad then you have to apply for a visa and then the problem of obtaining it starts. Day in and day out you have to go to the visa office for various verification formalities.

So here are some places abroad where Indians can go to without getting a visa, and they will amaze you with their landscapes.

Bhutan

A visit to Bhutan, the land of happiness, from India requires just the payment of a certain amount of money. The perk of an Indian’s passport is that you pay a lesser amount as compared to people of other countries. While in the beautiful country, you get to explore the Switzerland of the East, visit the peaceful Tiger Monastery and relish the spicy local food. If you drive from India to Bhutan, you get an entry for 7 days without a passport and if you fly to the place, you get an entry for 1 month. Both of them are extendable, though.

Ecuador

Ecuador which is considered as the equatorial paradise of South America can be toured by the holder of an Indian passport without getting a visa from beforehand. It is the place to behold and enjoy in the vast Amazon rain forests, the sensational beaches, the Andes Mountains, the isolated Galapagos islands and the world’s highest capital city of Quito. Indians get free visas if they show valid return tickets or the visas of any other place that they plan to visit from Ecuador.

Pic Credits- Wikipedia

Antarctica

Being the last land on the earth, it is a place for people who want to see mighty glaciers, icy white landscapes and plenty of penguins. It may be the only place on the planet where there is minimal human involvement and boasts of untouched natural beauty. You can go to Antarctica via the USA, Argentina, Chile, South Africa and New Zealand. Since it is uninhabited, there is no visa regime for visiting it.

Pic Credits- Wikipedia

El Salvador

With an insane number of volcanoes, El Salvador is amongst the smallest countries in Central America. The tropical paradise has hospitable people along with a diverse culture, natural beauty, beaches, volcanoes, lip- smacking food, nightlife and much more to offer to its visitors. Indian citizens get a free visa for a maximum of 3 months, depending on the show a valid return ticket or a valid visa for the next destination.

Fiji

The honeymooners’ destination Fiji is a coral paradise of South Pacific. Imagine yourself flopping on a beach sipping Pinacoladas and relaxing with your family or going scuba diving in the exquisite coral reefs and enjoying the natural beauty under the sea. Indians can get a free visa for 4 months if they show a valid return ticket and have sufficient funds for their stay.

Pic Credits- Wikipedia

Hong Kong

The amazing skyline, the awesome shopping venues, the delicious Cantonese food and the fact that it is nearest to the gambling hub of Macau make Hong Kong one of the most favourite spots for Indian tourists. They can get a free visa for 14 days after showing a valid return ticket with sufficient funds for the stay and a valid hotel booking.

Macau

It is the place where you can go to try your luck at Blackjack, Poker or SOT machines. It is also the place to witness rich Portuguese history and relish Portuguese food. Indians do get a free visa for up to 30 days on showing valid return tickets with sufficient funds to cover their trip.

Mauritius

Mauritius  is one of Indian Ocean’s top holiday spots. Its water sports and scuba diving spots are amazing. If you are planning for a relaxed beach vacation, this is the perfect spot. Here you will find a mixed culture of Indians, French and Africans. Indians can stay here visa- free for a minimum of 90 days and a maximum of 180 days on the condition of showing a valid return ticket along with sufficient funds for their trip.

Nepal

India shares its border with Nepal which means you can drive, ride or fly into the country. Indians do not even need a passport for the purpose; having a voter’s ID card or a driving license is sufficient. You can go to Nepal to trek or to visit the Buddhist temples or to enjoy the beauty of its capital city Kathmandu. As mentioned above Indians don’t need a visa, they can visit Nepal with a valid voters ID card or driving license. Also, they can stay and work there for 6 months.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go for them..!!

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Adventure Himalayas Rejuvenate

Hidden gem of Himalayas- Prashar Lake

Located at a distance of about 40 km from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi village, the Prashar Lake lies at an altitude of 2730 m above sea level.  It has a floating island and the depth of the lake has not been determined yet.  A Pagoda style temple was built near it, in the 13th century and is dedicated to sage Prashar who is believed to have meditated at the place. One remarkable thing about the temple is that it is entirely made up of just one Deodar tree. Its sinuous carvings of snakes and other animals augment its splendour. A lot of natives and people from around the globe arrive here during the yearly festival of the temple that is held in June. Some peaceful time can be spent at this place, away from the human habitation and its aura will start blending with your soul.

The trek to Prashar Lake is a pleasant one. It is not very famous but is slowly gaining popularity among people. The 6-7 km trek starts from Baagi Village. The initial 1.5 km runs along a local rivulet but the real hike starts after that only. En route, you will come across a Shiva trident. It is better to keep cross – checking with people whom you meet on the way, to make sure that you are moving on the right track. The directions are not properly marked so one has to be careful. You will find horses and cows on the way and the views of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar and Kinnaur mountain ranges are amazing. The path becomes slippery when it rains.

Once you reach the top, you will start feeling rejuvenated. The pollution- free air of the hills will boost up your energy and stamina making you feel revitalised. At some occasions, clouds welcome the hikers too!

Accommodation options include the PWD and Forest Department Rest Houses but it is recommended to book rooms in these two from beforehand only to be assured of their availability. When you fail to do so, you might be allowed to stay in the Prashar Mandir’s premises as well.

Making Parashar Lake as your base camp, you can try to go further on a 12 km trek to Tunga Mata temple which is located above it. This trail comprises a steep climb on the mountain ridge situated behind the lake and on the way back, you can visit some idiosyncratic places near the lake such as Shikhari Devi temple, Chindi, Pandoh, Kamru Nag Lake & Temple and Barot.

In a nutshell, Parashar Lake is a good option if you have time for only 2-3 days and want a religious as well as an adventurous trip. The journey is quite refreshing and the locals very amiable. So get ready to explore this destination!

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Rejuvenate

Why Nubra Valley should be included in Leh Itinerary.

Situated at a distance of about 150 km from Leh, the Nubra Valley separates Ladakh from the Karakoram Ranges and to its north, lies the world’s highest and coldest battlefield- Siachen Glacier. This alluring valley is formed by the confluence of the Shyok and the Nubra rivers.

Like the rest of the Tibetan Plateau, Nubra too with an average altitude of 10,000 ft above sea level, is a high altitude cold desert. Despite little rainfall, the valley has the repute of being one of the greenest regions of Ladakh and it is also called its ‘Food bowl’. The fact that the region comprises mountains, rocks, desert, rivers, crop fields and fruit gardens, all within a range of a few kilometers, is awe-inspiring.

Owing to its isolated location, Nubra Valley dissipates an aura of inherent rawness. It is an untouched and unconventional place of visit. To reach the valley, one has to go through Khardung La, which is claimed to be the highest motorable road in the world. Landslides are quite common in the area. In order to visit the Nubra Valley, foreigners are required to get a Protected area permit while Indians do not need an Inner Line Permit now.

Diskit town is the administrative headquarters of the Nubra Valley. It is famous for its 32 metre tall Maitreya Buddha statue maintained by the 14th century Diskit Gompa, the largest and oldest monastery in the region.Located at a distance of about 10km west of Diskit is Hunder village. It is famous for its sand dunes and Bactrian camels. It is the only place in India where one can find double-humped Bactrian camels, which were traditionally used to travel by the Silk Route into China and Central Asia. Therefore, the tourists who visit this place must take advantage of the opportunity of Camel safari. In Hunder, one can find forests of sea-buckthorn, a medicinal and nutritive plant popularly known as ‘Leh Berry’.

Sumur, which is located on the far side of the valley is also popular amongst bagpackers. It is a beautiful and the largest village in the region, boasting of fascinating Buddhist relics. Samstemling Gompa- a huge monastery accommodating a school for monks- is located 1 km uphill from Sumur. The picturesque and holy Yarab Tso lake, often referred to as the ‘hidden lake’, is also located close to Sumur.

Panamik Village is yet another place worth visiting that is situated about 28 km north of Sumur. It is known for two things – centuries old Ensa Gompa and hot water springs that are believed to cure a number of illnesses because of certain healing properties.

Turtuk is another village where travelers can enjoy their time and seek peace. It is the last village that is accessible to civilians, after which the Pakistan-administered Gilgit-Baltistan begins.The natives of Nubra Valley are amiable and hospitable people. The valley offers serenity and a peaceful life unlike the daily stresses of modern day living. Its simplicity and beauty are truly magnetic. In a nutshell, Nubra Valley is a perfect getaway in today’s hectic world.

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Rejuvenate Travel Tips Travel Trends

How Solo Travel Heals Break-Ups

Break-ups are painful. It feels bad, that the person you trusted from your heart, gave everything dumped you and did not acknowledge your worth. They are not only miserable but quite disappointing too. These are in fact testing times, but unfortunately most of us go through it. Few come out of it gracefully and use this to evolve themselves as person while others linger on it for more time. Best thing one can do is, pick up a bag-pack, get your passport and start travelling. Invest your anxieties, anger as cure and look at the brighter side of life. For your solo travel, since you shall be involved in multiple activities, you will realize that you can conquer anything and everything in the world. Here we are penning down some important reasons to travel solo, which can detox and detach you from your past which bonfire of your ex’s belonging can’t do.

Travel Distracts You

Breakups leads you in vicious circle of thoughts. You keep reminded of the time spent with your ex, things done, not done and all kind of multiple thoughts. They drain you with numerous thoughts. Exploring new places solo gives you fresh perspective and thoughts about the life. You realize different people have different problems and you are the not the only going through pain. Solo travel lets you heal your pain, as you are away from the painful memories.

Travel Boosts your Confidence

During break up, one’s confidence does go for a toss. In this situation planning everything on your own, meeting new people, though for a week or a month helps you to get on the right track and boost your ability to make decisions. Travelling solo does everything which is required for a bruised ego.

Travel lets you explore your true-self
Post breakups, it is very important to hold on to your senses and realign yourself towards your goals.travel lets you to go beyond your limits and forces you to experience the new things about yourself. You realize your strength and weakness. It is actually a rediscovery mode, which eventually helps in healing your breakup grief. Trust your intuition and enrich your experience.The memories you make with yourself are yours to keep and will never come with any regrets. You’ll learn valuable lessons and truly understand what you’re capable of. An adventure is food for the soul.

Travel lets you smile again

World is a beautiful place. Nature’s enchanting beauty will definitely make you smile again. It will also let you realize the value of time and who is worth of your tears.

If you’re feeling upset, go pack your bags and get yourself indulged in the world of adventure. Travel is the best thing you can do with your break-up. It is indeed a therapeutic experience one can have. We are sure, once you shall be back, you shall be thoroughly rejuvenated and up to take up next steps with more zeal in life. You might change something in your stars and thereby changing your destiny

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Rejuvenate Staycation wildlife

Experience Wilderness at its best in these eco-resorts situated in the jungles of Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is one of the green states in India,that can offer you wilderness at its best. If you are tired of city hustle bustle and want to spend some time getting lost in the jungles, then these resorts from Madhya Pradesh are definitely should be on your list as they not only offer spectacular hospitality but also let you explore the wildlife in its natural habitat.
Pashangarh by Taj Safaris, Panna National Park

Taj Safaris wildlife lodges are in Panna, Kanha Bandhavgarh & Pench. Each of these are based on themes. Pashangarh, as the name suggests is made out of stone inside the jungles of Panna National Park.One can walk down for jungle safaris, experience the signature dinners or else can enjoy the wilderness of the national park. Place is luxurious in itself and hospitality from staff makes the stay all the more memorable. Trained naturalists can take you out on safari and let you know the fine intricacies of these jungles.
How to get in– 70 kms away from Khajuraho airport, drive is smooth through the jungles.

Forsyth Lodge, Satpura National Park

This is an outstanding property in the Satpura jungles. What make it all the more luxurious is the staff. Once in, you shall be mesmerized by the awesome staff that makes you feel at home. Either you can spend a day at leisure looking around for butterfly park or spending time with school kids from near by village, or you may go to watch sunrise/sunsets at Denva river. Not to miss, this is one of the regions where you can walk down inside the thick Satpura jungles and look around for tigers, bears. Naturalists will amaze you with their knowledge as they explain about the flora & fauna of the jungles. One can also opt to walk uphill to Pachmarhi. Each cottage is made out of cob and is eco-friendly. They have machans above every cottage, which makes the evenings more beautiful. Forsyth also serves signature breakfasts inside jungles while you busy spotting sloth bears.

How to get in– Nearest airport is Bhopal airport, from where you can drive down in 4- 5 hrs.

Singinawa lodge, Kanha National Park
Singinawa Lodge is a palatial retreat near the outer edge of Kanha Tiger Reserve. Nearest airport is Jabalpur airport.
There are total 12 sumptuous cottages, that offer stunning view of the forest. Large part of lodge’s energy is met through solar power and appropriate methods are been used for water harvesting. Guests at Singinawa can engross themselves in safari with trained professionals or cycle to a nearby village or the forest department nursery. There are a few rock formations nearby, one of which is used for regular campfires. And if you are looking for a relaxed vacation, you can choose to stay at lounge and enjoy the spa.

Pic Credit- Singhniwa Lodge

How to get in– You can drive from Jabalpur airport which is nearest to the lodge and takes around 4-5 hrs.

Sarai at Toria, Panna Tiger Reserve
The Serai at Toria is a luxurious yet charmingly earth-friendly property situated on the banks of the Ken River. Cottages and dining halls are overlooking river, which gives glimpses of wide flora and fauna of jungle. You can get lucky to find jackal, mongoose, jungle cat etc. There are no plastic mineral water bottles (only filtered water), and chemical-free toiletries are purchased in bulk and decanted into glass vials. Most of the staff is from the neighbouring areas. Guests can go for excursions into the Panna Tiger reserve or opt for boat rides and fishing on the pristine Ken river. One would not like to miss the walk on these wet-lands.

Pic Credit- www.scottdunn.com
How to get in– Place is located at 20 min drive from Khajuraho airport/railway station.

Mahua Kothi, Bandhavgarh National Park
Mahua Kothi is another luxurious property from Taj Safaris in Bandhavgarh and wildlife lovers’ delight. These are beautiful Kutiyas, with all amneties and lets you remind of rustic surroundings. This property has been inspired from beautiful Mahua trees and it is reflected across property. Guests can indulge themselves in Yoga, tiger sightings, elephant safaris, open jeep safaris, as bandhavgarh boasts to have best tiger sightings across India, cycling etc.

Umaria railway station is the 35 kms away from the park and is nearest mode to get in there.

This summer, pack your bags to these unusual properties and have luxury vacations.

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Beaches Hotel Reviews Rejuvenate Staycation

Luxury Vacation at Taj Exotica at Goa

Taj Exotica is located at Benaulim in South Goa. Popular sightseeing places close to the hotel are Varca beach(6 km) and Colva beach(5 km).  It is like 45 min drive from Dabolim airport. For me, it is one of the best properties in Goa, which is truly luxurious due to its exotic location, grand architecture and a sun drenched atrium. Once inside, you wouldn’t like to move out due to the ample number of activities place can keep you indulged in

Food, Amenities and Services – Taj Exotica has around 140 air-conditioned guestrooms with personal balconies or patios. The room category can be sea-view/garden –view or pool view. We took sea-view room. Bathrooms are spacious with separate bathtubs, showers, designer toiletries, bathrobes and makeup/shaving mirrors. Basic amenities like tea/coffee makers, color television and complimentary bottled water in addition to complimentary newspapers and desks. Interiors of rooms are neutral and exotic. Housekeeping is available round the clock. You can spend the sunny afternoon by lazing around the beach or by playing golf or rejuvenating yourself at Jiva spa or playing indoor games or reading a book on the hammock.

Taj Exotica has event space as well consisting of ballroom, banquet facilities and conference/meeting rooms. The hotel offers a complimentary airport shuttle which is available on request. Additional hotel amenities comprise a library, a coffee shop, and a concierge desk. Special arrangements can be done for birthdays and anniversaries on payment. The experience at the Taj becomes all the more special with the variety of cuisines place has to offer. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood at the beachfront Lobster Shack while Mediterranean cuisine is served at Miguel Arcanjo. Traditional Goan dishes are offered at Allegria. For a nightcap, Adega Cameons Bar serves a variety of drinks. In case, you would want to go ahead with traditional Indian food in Goa, Eugenia should be a good choice.At Eugenia, guests can explore multiple cuisines from Indian to south-east Asian. Buffet breakfast is served at Eugenia and the spread is quite large. An overall property gives an amazing and luxurious ambience to unwind and relax.

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Adventure Beaches Rejuvenate Relax Travel Trends Tribal

Rendezvous with Andamans

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an idyllic destination for nature lovers. Thanks to Toroots to give me an opportunity to explore this pristine beaches more closely including the interaction with local Sentinelese people. Blog post brings out the best that I experienced during my stay.

As you land at Portblair airport, you can take a day out roaming around the place, wherein Anthropological Museum & Visit to Cellular Jail are must. This will surely let you speechless and gratitude towards our freedom fighters. The place is a conglomerate of beautiful islands that can be relaxing and adventurous at the same time.

Water sports like snorkelling lets you get the depth of marine life and Andaman beaches offer one of the best views in the world.

Day spent at Havelock also stays memorable for its pristine beaches and beautiful sunsets.

Not sure if words can do any justice with the place, but I hope pictures should be able to motivate you to pack your bags for the luxury vacation to Andaman.

Tip: Get your air-tickets booked timely to avoid extra expense.

 

 

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Rejuvenate

6 Indulgences to make your Sri Lanka holiday a memorable one

Elephant in the wild on the island of Sri Lanka

The first thing that comes to our mind when we think of Sri Lanka is the Hindu mythological tale, Ramayana. But, there’s lot more that this beautiful country has to offer. It’s the country where westernization is yet to touch and is still present in its natural form both in terms of nature and people. Culture, food, and beaches, all are preserved quite well. Take a look at the  activities you must indulge in while you’re in Sri Lanka without fail. Get to know more on Sri Lanka Visa

1.Surfing:New to surfing?  Hikkaduwa on Sri Lanka’s south west coast is the beginner’s paradise. Learning and practising surfing is pretty simple and it let’s you explore your adventurous side. One can enjoy the spectacular ambience of the turquoise Indian Ocean at Passikudah.

2.Explore the tea estates: With beautiful tea estates, Sri Lanka boasts of being one of the largest tea-producers in the world. These estates from Nuwara Eliya are lush green and offers beautiful landscapes for photographers. One can enjoy sipping tea in the lovely homestays, chatting with locals whilst admiring the mesmerising landscapes.

3. Hop into the train: Travelling in slow trains from Kandy to Ella through the magical mist will caste its memories on you forever. These trains chug slowly through the majestic hills. You may choose to stand near the doors and feel the natural breeze, witness the streams, tea estates and landscapes. This is one train journey you would like to cherish forever.

4. Explore the wildlife: If you’re a wildlife lover, then you should visit the Yala National park which has rich flora and wildlife. You can spot leopards, elephants, jackals etc. Udawalawe National Park is another wildlife spot wherein elephants can be seen feeding and one can experience wildlife in its most virgin form. At the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, one can release the turtles into the ocean silently

5.Hit the beach: This tropical paradise has got some of the most beautiful virgin beaches. You can cycle to the pristine beaches along the coastline which provide the perfect break from the city buzz. Kalutara, Mirissa, Passikuda, Galle are some of the beaches you can include in your itinerary

6. Gorge on the local cuisine: One can feast their heart out by savouring Pol Rotti, Yeast Rotti, Egg Rotti, curries and honey hoppers. Most of the cuisines have coconut in them, but the preparation is what makes it different and yummy.

Sri Lanka is a perfect getaway for any kind of traveller. From beaches to wildlife to pilgrimage to culture, the experience will leave you wanting for more. Pack your bags, book your flight tickets to Sri Lanka and spend quality time with nature.

 

 

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Central India Festival Rejuvenate Travel Trends Tribal Western Ghats

Gowli Tribe: Herders of Dandeli

The place is primarily known for water sports especially river rafting in river Kali. It is a paradise for birdwatchers that keep themselves in thick deciduous forests. However, very few people are aware that these forests are inhabited by the tribes, who have a little world of their own in these jungles. During one of my trips to Dandeli, I got the chance to spend time with these folks and learn about their cultures. This post is about my experience with Gowli Tribe, as they celebrate Vijayadashami, one of the famous festivals in India marking the triumph of good over evil.
Apparently, Gowlis is a pastoral community found in the states of Goa & Maharastra. Gowlis of Dandeli has their strong roots from lord Krishna community of Yadavas, whose major occupation is animal herding and selling milk in the surrounding areas. They are Hindus by religion and make sure, their religious ceremonies, traditions remain undiluted.

They celebrate Vijayadashami 2 days later the usual dates. Preparations start a week before and festivity takes place at the “Mukhiya’s” house, which also performs the festivity on the D-day and guides the people of tribes.  Cow Urine is considered to be sacred and all the goddesses etc are washed with the same. House is decorated with the paper cuttings created by the females and kids around.

Even though the Government is making an attempt to bring them out of the jungles and providing them basic education, so that they can be part of the crowd, but it seems they are happy being the Gowlis and have no regrets in life. They live each moment with passion and are absolutely non-complaining. These folks  are extremely nice  and hospitable to the guests

 

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Adventure Central India Ghoomophiro Blog Rejuvenate Travel Trends wildlife

Highlands of Central India

Madhya Pradesh- Central India …When I took 7 days off, the first question that came to everyone’s mind was, why Madhya Pradesh? Shocked folks asked me” Actually you would like to go to MP”. But yes, me and my sister finally packed our bags, started our journey to ajab gajab state of India i.e MP. Our journey started with an overnight train journey from Delhi to Khajuraho. MP is a state of variety where one can enjoy flavors of art/culture/history/wildlife/scenic beauty. After spending 5 days there, we totally realized why the state is truly ajab & gajab, and why one should go there.

History and Architecture: Our first day was in Khajuraho, that depict an eternal celebration of love in the form of stone carved temples. The Western Group of temples, in particular, contains some stunning sculptures. One of the Unesco world heritage sites. They are predominantly Hindu temples and most of them face the sunriseYou would need at least 2 complete days to go through these temples. Moving to Mandu, which is popular as Monsoon Magic! These are beautiful Jain sculptures,that talk about the glorious past of MP. Forts at Gwalior

Nature at its best: MP gives you the chance to go through the dense Satpura forests in reality about which each one of us had been reading since childhood. A drive through these forests is beautiful. Pachmarhi, also known as “queen of Satpura” is beautiful hill station located in the adds the beauty to MP. It is blessed with rich flora & fauna and breathtaking waterfalls like befall, Duchess fall, Apsara falls. The famous Liril advert has been shot here.

Boat ride at Bhedaghat, view at Dhuandhar falls adds beauty to the state.

National Parks and Wildlife : Madhya Pradesh is The Tiger-land of India.It boasts of 4 major National parks and hence destination for folks interested in the documentary on wildlife. Though we happen to go Bandhavgarh only, but Kanha is also a good place to spot tigers. All these forests are bustling with deer, antelopes, tigers. Not only the tigers, Chambal River has gharials and Gangetic dolphins sight of which is unbelievable.

Pilgrimage:  State also attract a lot of pilgrim enthusiasts, as it boasts of having world’s finest Jain temples in Ujjain and Chitrkoot holds the importance from Ramayana as the place where Ram & Sita stayed during their exile (vanwas).

Not to miss, MP also provides ample opportunities for shopaholics like me. Chanderi and Maheshwari famous and colorful silks and every girl would love them. I am sure, the place is indeed photographer’s delight. So when are you packing your bags for Madhya Pradesh!!!

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