he growing forces of capitalization have turned the scene around. Gone are the days when spirituality was considered as important as other aspects of human life but when exactly did we begin to transform? Here we are now, stacked in closed walls just for a decent amount of money for which we work all day all night. Is that all worth it? Why do we earn, to make our lives better! But are we really doing that? There are certain things that the world needs to speak out loud but nobody does that really. We have learned to become content with our 9 to 6 routine and the weekends, where we are tired enough to get out of our beds.
What is traveling in that scenario and where it is? A traveler’s mind is wired differently from the rest. He is the risk taker; he doesn’t care about the money. Take a passionate travel blogger for example, he will work at the prices which are just enough for his survival but he doesn’t bat an eye, why? Because he is content with himself, with what he doing rather than what rest of the world is doing. So that, when he lies on his deathbed, about to die, he can smile and say to himself- Hey, don’t worry, you have lived a wonderful life!
Here we list a few reasons, why traveling is way more important as a lifestyle rather than staying whole day inside closed walls and what eventually inspires us to travel.
It relaxes the soul and the mind. It makes you feel all refreshed so that you can go back to your work with enhanced productivity. In the end, we are all humans, we all need breaks. But then there are some stubborn people who consider it a waste of time and money. Well, that is just their personal opinion really and we shouldn’t be bothered but someone needs to take them to a trip to Himachal to let them know what they are actually missing.
It’s the money well spent, yes it is there. The money spent on a small trip to a nearby hill station doesn’t really come with a feeling of guilt, like alcohol, where you wake up next day cursing yourself for wasting hard earned money while making it difficult for your liver to work effortlessly.
You grow as a person! The more you travel, the more you interact with people from different walks of life which is not possible working in some office where you see the same faces every day again and again. You feel mature, responsible and most importantly, you feel happy, which money can’t provide.
You feel alive- Even a computer lives its life working, sitting in an air-conditioned office, but does it ever feel alive? Sometimes, we just have to let it go and following your passion is one thing that is worth letting everything go. It makes you feel like a risk taker, a rebel and a living breathing soul finally freed from the cage.
You have new experiences – Travelling is the best way to enrich your life with new experiences and new memories. One must choose at least a few years or few months to experience this beautiful planet, climbing a mountain or going for a walk on the beach, or visiting a museum or see what’s out there in a national park. Travelling opens up infinite possibilities and leaves one with many experiences.
There are countless reasons that we can list here in order to state the advantages of having a trip or two every month without worrying about the salary cuts that will follow. But they aren’t needed, we just need to realize the need to follow our hearts, for whatever it takes and start traveling.
A trip to Maharashtra is incomplete without at least a two-day stay at the heart of India’s Bollywood hub ‘Aamchi Mumbai’. The state capital of Maharashtra represents what truly being Indian means with its loud style and grandiosity. It showcases the ‘bindass’ attitude that most of us carry with us along with amazing sights to see and dishes to try. Though two days aren’t nearly enough to see everything that this ‘City of Dreams’ has to offer, we the #ghoomophirosisters will help you squeeze in most of it.
Must see:
Gateway of India
Built during the 20th century, Gateway of India is a historical arch monument which was erected for commemorating the landing of Queen Mary and King George V on their visit to India. The gateway then became a symbolical entrance for Viceroys and Generals in India. It is a popular attraction of Mumbai because of its magnificent structure and has also been called as the “Taj Mahal of Mumbai”.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway
This Railway station was formerly known as Victoria Terminus and has a rich history as well. The railway terminal is designed in Victorian Italian Gothic style architecture and is also one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. The majestic design of the terminal is a sight to behold.
Haji Ali Dargah
Haji Ali Dargah is one of the most popular religious spots and visitors from all over the world, no matter the religion or caste come here to visit Pir Haji Ali. If by chance you end up here on a Friday, you might also get to enjoy the divine sufi Qawalis. This place is surrounded by talks of myths and legends but most of all, stories of miracles. Even an atheist would like to visit just to satisfy his curiosity.
Siddhivinayak Temple
One of the most popular and rich temples in India is Shree Siddhivinayak Mandir dedicated to Lord Ganesha of Hindu mythology. Located in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, it is the busiest spot on Ganesh Chaturthi. The wooden doors on entrance are carved with images of Ashtavinayak and the roof is plated with gold. There is also a Hanuman temple nearby that one may visit as well.
Elephanta Caves
Elephanta Caves are another popular spot and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This collection of cave temples is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It has many rock-cut statues and shows the harmonic existence of Hinduism and Buddhism. The carvings are incredible to see.
Definite Do’s
Watch a movie at Maratha Mandir
Every day at 11:30 AM, the place shows DDLJ. This cinema hall that opened in 1958 has become one of the most iconic spots of Mumbai. It is a very valued place for the Bollywood industry, so if you have the time, enjoy the grand Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge experience.
Click a Selfie at Red Carpet Wax Museum
Located in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, this wax museum displays wax statues of many famous personalities. From the popular Avengers to many Bollywood stars, they have celebrities lined up just for your amusement. It is a great feeling standing next to Obama or Harry Potter or getting to click a selfie with the Queen.
Evening stroll at Marine Drive
An evening stroll at Marine Drive around 6 pm would give you a glimpse into the nightlife of Mumbai. As you walk down the road or sit on a slab enjoying the twinkling lights parallel to the road, you will be amazed by the beauty of it all.
Shop at Colaba Causeway or Fashion Street
If you have confidence in your bargaining skills and enjoy shopping, the street-shopping experience in Mumbai would be a memorable one for you. In Colaba Causeway, you can find anything from handicrafts to antiques or books, even clothes, and jewelry. Fashion Street is more popular with the college chaps because of the latest trends and styles hitting the street first.
Take a Bollywood tour
See the houses of Shahrukh Khan, Amitabh Bachan, and other Bollywood celebrities while getting to know about the film city on a Bollywood tour. You get to see the behind the scenes working of Bollywood movies and meet some of the stars as well. But the tour takes 7 to 8 hours so opt for it only if you have the time.
Best Eating Joints:
Seafood at Trishna
Not trying Seafood in Mumbai should be criminalized. Trishna has been a great seafood restaurant for around 23 years now with Garlic Butter Crabs being its specialty. From sports legends to Hollywood celebs, all have dined here. Enjoy a heavy dinner here and try the jumbo prawns as well.
Kebabs @ Mohammad Ali Road
Try Skewered kebabs at Sarvi located a little ahead of Mohammad Ali road near Dimtimkar road. They set the benchmark for delicious mouth-watering kebabs and have been around for 90 years. They grill the most tender and yummy seekh kebabs but get here early before they sell out.
Sukh Sagar Restaurant near ChowpattyBeach: You cannot hope to come to Mumbai and not enjoy the delights of street-side Vada Pao/ Pao Bhaji at Chowpatty. Forget about your diet qualms for a day or two and relish the tastes of roadside eateries.
When to go:
Mid-June to October: Travelling during this season is messy because of flooded streets during monsoon season. But it shows a different side of Mumbai amidst the falling raindrops. Even with the hassle, the life in Mumbai doesn’t slow down and you can always head off to hill stations like Khandala, Lonavala etc to enjoy.
November to February: the winter season is the best time to spend in Mumbai since it is a coastal region and the temperature remains mild and pleasant during this time. Moreover, spending Christmas in the beautiful churches of Mumbai as well as New Years in the City of Dreams can be a memorable event.
March to May: Summertime is very hot and humid in Mumbai and the temperature may go up to 40 degrees which aren’t the ideal temperature to head out or enjoy oneself. Remember to wear cool cotton clothes and carry sunglasses along with sunscreen.
Getting there:
By Air: Mumbai has Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport with its two terminals being Santa Cruz and Sahara International airport. It is connected by domestic as well as international flights.
By Road: One can travel from Nashik which is 170 km away via Nashik-Mumbai Expressway. Buses also travel from Nashik to Mumbai within 2 hours and 20 minutes. Mumbai is also connected via road to Pune, Aurangabad, Goa, etc It has a well-connected bus network.
By Train: If you’re traveling by railways, you can choose among Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal, Mumbai Central, Dadar Railway station or Kalyan Railway station. It connects Mumbai with all major cities of the country.
Getting around:
Mumbai’s local trains are popular for being jam-packed so you can opt for it only if you wish to have that experience. Otherwise, buses, cabs and both public and private means of transport are easily available. But you might get stuck in traffic often so prepare yourself for that while making plans for the day.
What to pack:
If you are traveling during the summer, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and cool cotton clothes are a must.
Monsoons can be very wet and messy so carry a raincoat and umbrellas along with waterproof jackets and shoes.
Don’t forget Mosquito repellents.
Where to stay:
Since this place is a famous tourist spot, getting prior hotel booking is always an advantage. As a visitor, you have complete flexibility to opt for 2-star hotels to 5 Star Hotels in Mumbai
Sofitel Mumbai: This is a luxury hotel located in Bandra Kurla Complex and has five-star hotel rooms with great aesthetic and services. There are many options for relaxation and enjoying the true essence of Mumbai. The main highlight of the place would have to be the varied palate of culinary delights that it offers.
Ibis Mumbai Airport Hotel: This is the nearest hotel to the airport at Nehru Road, Western Expressway. With a good location and satisfactory rooms and room service along with basic amenities like an on-site restaurant and free Wi-Fi, it is the right place to stay.
The Hotel Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach:
The hotel offers a great view of the city and is a delight for the eyes as well. With rooms looking out to the sea or the city, and outdoor pool to provide full relaxation to its guests, this is one of the best picks for a hotel. And if sun terrace, free Wi-fi, and 24 hr service wasn’t enough, they also have a shared lounge and a hairdresser at the property. This is the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy the beaches and the nightlife of Mumbai.The City of dreams awaits you in Mumbai with its charming lights and warm people. Embrace the soothing air and be free and wild. Take in all the history and get bewitched by stardom.
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?”
The city of Nawabs is known for so many things that have secured a good place in the hearts of the Indians for the city. One of those many things is the delicate and tasty cuisines that get served here in the city almost everywhere from the high-end hotels and restaurants to the average street stalls. Lucknow mostly deals in the non-vegetarian food and there is no dearth of delicious options for the hardcore vegetarians as well. So, here are a few cuisines that you must try at any cost whenever you are there in the city.
Galawati Kabab– Kebabs get served here in the city in abundance. And what’s better you ask? There are more than a hundred variety of that are being served here. Out of them Galawati Kabab is the most sought after. There is a story that says that this particular recipe was so special once that it was served only to the Nawab and his family of the city. Galawati means- that melts in your mouth and it justifies its name quite perfectly. Meat and unripe papaya are used in making it and it’s something not to be missed.
Boti Kabab– The delicious meat when gets heated intensively and gets served with some of the best spices, the result is this. Although quite common in the rest of the country as well, it holds a certain charm that is unique for the Lucknowi cooks. This is one of the most popular and the most delicious recipes one can find anywhere.
Rogan Josh– Yes, for the hardcore chicken lovers, the name is enough to bring water in their mouths. Rogan Josh is one of the very few delicious items that are regular with the nonvegetarians. The very soft chicken gets mixed up with spicy curry is all you need for the night. You may have tried it a thousand times, but the one that belongs to Lucknow holds a unique charm and demands to be tried at least once.
Lucknowi Biryani– How could our list be incomplete without this! The Lucknowi biryani has many different varieties but the essence is the same all over. The rice is cooked in the fresh spices and then the chicken is added. This serves as a great mixture of mouth-watering taste and elegance. There are variants where it can be spicier on the request of the customers. To experience the real flavor of Dum Biryani, you can visit the Idris Dhaba, a small shop in the Chowk area.
Tokri Chaat– Chaat is known to be the most favorite snack for the countrymen, there are many ways to prepare it. The one that gets prepared here in Lucknow is not a lot different but it does feel tastier than the chaats prepared in any other parts of the country, especially the north India. Try Royal Café in Hazratganj, famous especially for its lip smacking basket chaat.
Lassi- To enjoy a great variety, you must visit the Sai Lassi Corner. The thick cream layer, top with dry fruits is what makes this place so special among the lassi lovers.
It doesn’t matter whether you are a foodie or not, everyone likes to eat and there is no one in the world that doesn’t get around by a delicious looking plate in front of them. Lucknowi meals are known for their taste and freshness and the best part, most of them are affordable by everyone.
Situated right in the heart of Kancheepuram district around 60 kms away from the Chennai city is the blue gemstone of the Indian heritage called Mahabalipuram. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in India, Mahabalipuram is famous for a host of ancient temples, monuments, and friendly nature of its local people. Most of the monuments situated in the district were built by Pallava dynasty rulers.
We bring you a list of some of the most popular attractions of the town to explore.
Arjuna’s Penance Sculpture
One of the major attractions in Mahabalipuram, Arjuna’s Penance sculpture is visited by thousands of tourists from around the globe. As the name suggests, the monument depicts the series of events that took place in the life of Arjuna during his penance period. These events of his life have been carved on two huge rocks atop which lies a collecting pool. It is around 43 feet high.
The art of sculpture on the rocks is unmatched and detailed way beyond one can imagine in that time.
Thirukadalmallai Temple
Thirukadalmallai temple appears like a pearl in the heart of Mahabalipuram. It is known by several names in the country. Some of which are Sthalasayana Perumal Temple and Divya Desams. According to the Indian mythology, this temple has been dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. This is one of the 108th temples built to prove devotion towards the Lord Vishnu.
This temple was built by Pallava rulers and saints who were known as Tamil Azhvars. This temple is one of its type in the country. It stands out for its ancient Dravidian art.
Cave Temples
Adorned by some 8 cave temples, Mahabalipuram is recognized for its cave arts and temples commissioned by the Pallava rulers. Touted as one the finest masterpieces from the ancient India, most of the sculptures in the caves are dedicated to the deities in Indian Mythologies. The detailing of these sculptures is unmatched. Names of these temples are Varaha, Krishna, Tiger, Panchapandava, Mahishasuramardini, Trimurti, Atiranachanda, and Kotikal.
Shore Temple
Major attraction breathing amid cultural amalgam of Mahabalipuram is the Shore Temple. Built by Pallava rulers, the temple has their indelible traces of style, art, and culture. Just like most places and other major attractions in Mahabalipuram and in other parts of South India, Shore Temple is also known by a different name—7 Pagodas.
According to local traditional beliefs, Shore temple had 7 Pagodas before a ravenous Tsunami struck down the temple in around 13th century AD. There are several sculptures and other art pieces on the temple.
Pancha Rathas
The exact English translation of Pancha Rathas is five chariots. These Pancha Rathas have been named after the five Pandavas of the Hindu epic Mahabharatha.
Pancha Rathas has been carved out on pink granite. One of the tallest monuments is around 40 feet high. Like other temples and monuments in Mahabalipuram, Dravidian style and art dominate Pancha Rathas.
The catastrophic Tsunami in 2004 has affected many monuments in the district. However, this monument stands tall without a single sign of damage.
Sadras
Mahabalipuram is home to exquisite beach resorts that, one of the beach resorts is Sadras which has taken full advantage of the striking landscape. The beaches that surround Mahabalipuram are a glorious sight to watch as they are beset by beautiful, casuarinas groves.
The vibrant green beautifully contrasts with the sparkling white beaches is a sight that is a delight to everyone. This beach resort is located 13 kilometers outside of Mahabalipuram.
How to reach Mahabalipuram
Instead of Mahabalipuram, you can choose to take a flight to Chennai Airport on regular basis. The driving distance between Chennai and Mahabalipuram is 56 km, while the in-flight distance from Chennai to Mahabalipuram is 48 km.
There are no regular or proper train services from other major cities to Mahabalipuram. The nearest train station is Chengalpattu Junction.
Mahabalipuram is well connected to other major cities of the country via regular buses.
Food
While you are at this destination, look out for dishes such as try Grilled Fish, Vegetarian thali, Prawns, Lobsters, Crabs and more. South Indian cuisine lovers can try a typical South Indian platter which consists of Idli, Dosa, Appam, Vada, Upma Sambhar, Sweet Pongal, Kesari, Payassam and much more
Malvan happens to be a picture perfect fishing port town located in the Konkan district of Maharashtra. Apart from the beaches where you could relax and spend some wonderful time, the place also has a few historical monuments which make the place perfectly balanced on the scale of natural and manmade beauty.
How to reach
Dabolim in the northern part of Goa is the nearest airport to the place which is a few hours ride away. Kudal is the nearest railway station belonging to the Konkan railways and located about 30 kilometers from the town. However, buses remain the best option to travel to the place. Mumbai-Goa highway is a clean road and Malvan is located at about 35 kilometers west of the highway, so getting there shouldn’t be a problem.
Places to visit
Among the many reasons to visit Malvan, here are a few that may compel to form your next trip around the beautiful fishing port.
Sindhudurg Fort- The great fort was built by the great Maratha warrior Shivaji in 1664. The ferry services which will take you to the fort from the town begin their rounds early in the morning from 8 AM. The fort is a magnificent monument full of reminiscent of the era this fort belongs to.
Rock Garden- After a day well spent watching the monuments and sightseeing around the place, Malvan is the best place to relax on the rocks. situated near the Arase Mahal, on the rocky shore of Malvan, it is a marvelously built garden overlooking the Chivla beach. enjoy the calm of the seaside and the sunset and sunrise amidst its all green and raw vibe, while you are here.
Tarkali- Located at a distance of about 6 kilometers from Malvan, is Tarkali. The very long and narrow stretch of the beach is the biggest attraction of the place and being very close to Malvan, the place deserves a visit.
Devbag- The long beach around the coast, an exquisite boat ride to the tsunami island is the biggest attractions of the place. The Sangam point can also be seen from here. Parasailing and other water sports add a lot more fun to the overall joy of having visited the place.
Beaches Malvan is surrounded by striking beaches which are refreshing and relaxing and offer you a wide view of the calm sea. As many sea birds visit here in thousands the place is a great sight for the visitors.
Boat rides in Karli backwaters can be enjoyed by visitors. Scuba diving on the Dandi beach, located at around a 3 kilometers distance from the main Malvan bus stand, is one rather sporty thing to do in otherwise peace-loving town. However, the scuba diving facilities are not the best in the country, but coming at half the price of other places, it is definitely worth a shot.
Food
Malvan will offer you some of the most delicious seafood that you may have ever tasted in your life. Hotel Chaitanya near Malvan Bharad road is known for authentic Malvani food and offers some of the best-fried fish. There are other great places near the Malvan fish market which take your taste buds on an amazing roller coaster ride. Other restaurants to try include Atithi Bamboo, Swami Family Restaurant, Only Fish and Ocean’s Paradise.
Stay
Malvan has many hotels and resorts that remain booked almost all the time in a year. Ai beach home, Manorama Niwas, Sagar Sangam and the Tian beach resort stands out among the many other places to stay.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the place is from October to May and as the season approaches, you need to start finding all those fancy backpacks. Malvan acts both as a foodie’s paradise and a great tourist spot and one trip to the place is enough for you to fall in love with it.
Malvan serves as not just the perfect spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. With one of the best beaches in India and cheaper water sports such as at Tarkali, Malvan is a place that must be visited once in a lifetime.
Indonesia, the largest archipelago in the world offers a lot of diversity to its visitors. To most Indians, Indonesia means Bali but it has a host of other locations which are must visits while going to the place. 6 of them are listed below.
Tana Toraja
Tana Toraja is loved for its special tribal culture. Situated in the Central Highlands of the Sulawesi Island, it is one of the places that celebrate death. One can see more action going on during a funeral here than during a wedding ceremony. The countryside’s greenery, terraced rice plantations, spirit guardians and rock-cut tombs, and unique traditions make this place a must visit.
Kawah Ijen
Kawah Ijen is the world’s most acidic lake. Located on the eastern end of the Java Island, it gives you the opportunity to experience one of Mother Nature’s most amazing creations and get to see the conditions where sulphur miners of the region eke out a difficult living for a paltry sum.
Karimun Java
Have you ever heard of a place where humans can swim along with baby sharks?! Well, the small equatorial islands of Karimun Jawa are one of such rare spots. Located amidst the rough waters between Kalimantan and the Java Island, Karimun Jawa is home to beautiful white beaches and exotic coral reefs. It is highly recommended to stay with a native family in their home here and cherish a relaxed holiday. Snorkelling and scuba diving are the most popular water sports that can be done here, while jungle trekking is quite popular on the island.
Gunung Merapi
Gunung Merapi is Indonesia’s most active volcano and goes up every 4th year. The eruption is often so heavy that drenches the entire UNESCO world heritage sites of Borobudur and Prambanan in tonnes of ash. Hiking to the top of this active volcano, watching the hot lava boil inside it and seeing the picturesque sunrise over the mountain landscape is an unmatched experience in itself.
Kintamani
Bali is known for its beaches and temples by everyone but a few of them know about a hill station that it has, called Kintamani which is located near the Batur volcano and caldera. This picturesque place is also home to the beautiful Pura Ulan Danu Batur temple. You should go here for its natural beauty, a nice temple experience, cool weather and a luxuriant green countryside indulgence.
Sumbawa
Conventionally, Bali is very popular among travellers for its surf breaks but if you are fond of surfing and wish for a quieter place than it, then Sumbawa is just the place for you! Located in the East Timor Sea at just the north of East Timor, Sumbawa offers a blend of deserted stretches of gorgeous beaches, beautiful surf breaks, and an experience that Bali might have offered about 50 years ago. This place is meant to be visited for the ultimate offbeat beach lover.
Do include the aforementioned places in your Indonesia itinerary next time!
The Parvati valley located in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh may be known for its beauty and the spiritual essence that one gets to witness when they arrive here. But there are many little and big places located in and around the valley that is a definite delicious treat to the human senses. One such places are Manikaran, one little enchantress of a place. Located on the Parvati River Manikaran is in the popular Kullu district of the state. A short trip from Kullu or Manali will bring you here in a few minutes if you are fast enough. There are many places around here and many things to do. Let’s just look at the different things Manikaran is known for.
The temples and the religious places- The place basically acts as a two in one package. There are many religious places located here for the Hindus and the Sikhs that calling it a pilgrimage for both the communities won’t be exaggerating. The Hindus hold the belief that Manu recreated the human existence here when it was once vanished from the planet due to heavy floods. The place also holds some very detailed mentions in the Shiva Purana. And as result, Shiva temples are in abundance here. And being located in the Parvati valley, named after Lord’s wife, there has to be some real religious significance about the place.
Trekking- When we talk about the mountains from a tourist’s perspective, one of the very first things that come to mind is Trekking. There are ample places for some adventurous trekking in the area. The most popular one being the trek to Lahaul and Spiti, both are widely popular in their own way. The trek of a few kilometers takes you through the lush greenery and beautiful picturesque visuals.
Hot springs- One other thing the place is famous for is the hot springs. Water from them is known to be holy and known to cure even the deadliest of diseases. The researchers, of course, are against the claim but they have said that the water here is containing uranium and some chemicals which may come somehow handy in curing some skin ailments. The water in these hot springs is sometimes so hot that you can boil rice in it. These things aside, the place looks beautiful as any other place in the area. The enchanting beauty of the place is one big reason for the herds of tourists that come here every year, primarily in the summer time.
Harinder Mountain- The little place is surrounded by the beautiful and snow-capped mountain ranges of Harinder. The view of the place from these mountains is magical and makes you sit down there are keep gazing into Manikaran for hours. In the night hours, the magic reaches another level of surrealism and makes it a spine-chilling treat for the eyes and other senses.
There are many other places located in the place such as the Shiva Mandir and the very famous Gurudwara Sri Nanak Dev Ji that attracts a lot of tourists. Summer is the best time to make a trip here as most of the snow would have been melted and the place would be at its beautiful best.
The beautiful city Ajmer is well known for the famous shrine “Dargah” of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. It is 130 km from Jaipur, situated at the heart of Rajasthan. The historic valley, rich in culture is ringed around by Aravali range. It is one of the most eminent centers of Islamic history, which you can witness in the incredible Moghul architecture. The city shows a perfect blend of diverse culture, religion, and community, as 14km from Ajmer there lies an ancient Hindu pilgrimage Pushkar, which is a famous Brahma temple. Planning a trip to Ajmer Sharif? We have collected some important information about sightseeing and other details, which might help you as a travel guide. “Dargah” of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti.
The Dargah of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti is the famous sacred place of Muslims, which is also venerated by other religions. He came to Ajmer in 1192 and died here in 1236. The tomb is one of the most significant pilgrimages, which was constructed by many famous Muslim rulers like Moghul emperor Humayun, who constructed shrine and the Nizam gate was constructed by Nizam of Hyderabad. Many visitors across the world come to the Dargah Sharif, as there is strong belief that saint’s spirit will intercede on behalf of them in times of any problem. People ties note in the holy string if they have any problem believing that it will vanish by the blessings of the divine spirit.
Way to Adhai-Din-Ka Jhopra.
The Adhai-Din-Ka Jhopra is the famous mosque situated at the outskirts of the city Ajmer. It is said that it have been built just in two and half days. Doesn’t it seem impossible? But, it is strongly believed by locals of the area that it just took two and half days to construct this incredible monument. Originally it was a Sanskrit college, further, it was forcibly transformed in Mosque by Muhammad Ghori. It is worth seeing and I would recommend you not to skip this unique monument.
Feel the cool breeze at the bank of Ana Sagar Lake. Artificially made by damming the Luni river, it is one of the most famous tourist attractions constructed by Anaji Chauhan. It is surrounded by eye luring beautiful gardens along with series of marble pavilion constructed by Shah Jahan. It is very tempting and eye pleasing view of the sunset from the doultbagh near Ana Sagar.
Visit the holy land of Brahma “Pushkar”!!
14 km from the holy city Ajmer lies the small yet beautiful city Pushkar, the eminently famous city of Lord Brahma. The peaceful and calm city is the center of the devotion of thousands of devotees. The famous temple is the only Brahma temple in the world. The Nasiyan Red Jain temple.
Along with Hindu and Muslims, the city Ajmer has also possessed the golden Jain temple, which is also one of the famous temples of Rajasthan. The amazing double -storey temple is the best example of eye luring architecture. The famous temple is decorated with gold, silver and other precious stones depicting the various aspect of Jainism is worth visiting.
Travelling is fun; there is no second thought on that. But to which level can traveling actually lift the spirits of someone going through the dark phase of their lives??
There is an unsaid reason why most of the people start packing their bags almost every other weekend to have some time off their hectic lives. Most of them may still don’t know it, but traveling acts as a therapy in ways you can’t even imagine when it comes to tackling depression.
It helps you build focus
Focus is what most of us lack in life. Have you ever wondered that planning a travel can keep you occupied? Travel planning on which place to go, what to pack, where to stay and plenty of more things will keep you busy and focused. Apart from your regular job, you will have something to look forward to which will eventually keep you motivated.
It enables you to get adapted to changes
Not everything will go as you planned it to go. There will be many ups and downs during your journey but you will learn how to balance on both the situations. You might get robbed, and have to ask for help from strangers. Your booking gets canceled at the last moment and you keep on wondering where to go. Anything unexpected can happen which will make you stronger for bigger battles of life.
It helps you to build a positive approach
At times often in life, we start losing all the hope and keep giving up on everything. It could be the result of some failure or a setback. What we forget is that failure is not the end of life. You should know how to come out of that mode and get your life on the track. Traveling can help you attain that. The change in the air and surroundings can make you rethink about your life in positive terms.
It gives you time to be with yourself
Humans are social beings; seldom do we want to be alone in our lives. Traveling alone when you are fighting depression will give you a chance to reinvent yourself and then, sitting alone on the top of a hill staring down into the abyss while counting all your blessings! Who wouldn’t want that and how could that not be enough to think better about yourself?
Helps you meet different people and make friends
Meeting new people at a new place is wonderful in terms of making some new friends. Very often, you meet people who can turn into your lifelong friends. Just one person can get you out of your misery and there are many chances that you are going to find that person if you act true to yourself. The memories that you make, the talks that you share and the things that you learn from your travel companion could be counted as one of the best moments of life.
You learn to be grateful
Travelling teaches to be grateful towards small and big things of life. The tough times that you face while traveling reminds you of old good times and leaves you grateful for that. Sometimes traveling alone can make you thankful for the family that you have back there at home.
Depression is bad, but there is the cure for everything and traveling is the best thing anybody could bet on relieving depression.
