Categories
Rejoice Travel Tips

Rajkot: A Shopaholic Paradise For All

Here we are with a list of top 8 shopping destinations in Rajkot where you are sure to get everything you want.

  1.  Gujari Bazar

Gujari Bazar is a perfect location for traditional shopping where you can buy exquisite Gujarati handloom as well as artifacts. Not to forget, this market is popular for the Bandhani Sarees., so if you are fond of sarees then you cannot skip visiting this lace.

  1. Gundawadi

Gundawadi is a one-stop destination for the budget shoppers where you will not be able to locate branded stores. The market is well known for traditional fabrics and garments where you can buy the charming traditional attires at a reasonable price.

  1. Crystal Mall

Crystal Mall is one place where you can go for shopping irrespective of draining rains or scorching sun. Here you are sure to find all the branded stores. It finds a decent location at the much busy Kalawad Road. The multiplex and Food Court in the mall fulfills your entertainment and hunger needs as well.

  1. Dr. Yagnik Road

Dr. Yagnik Road is yet another fabulous place for shopping. Today there are umpteen shops in the market unlike a few years back when there were just a handful of shops. Today you can also find malls in Rajkot City. Options Mall is a shopping retreat offering plenty of options to the shoppers. You can also find some gift shops as well as garment stores here.

  1. Bangdi Bazaar

Bangdi Bazaar is one of the best market places to buy bangles. Also, it is one of the oldest shopping places in Rajkot. It is characterized by the narrow lanes as well as cul-de-sac alleys. Here you can find not only superb bangles but also pretty dupattas, beadworks as well as embroidered fabric. It is also a conventional market for gold and silversmiths. This is one place where you can bring your bargaining skills to use and get your bags full in really less money.

  1. Ravivari Bazar

 As the name suggests, this market is open only on Sundays in Rajkot streets. Here you can buy things that are new and also the ones that are used or say old. Ranging from clothes and bags to furniture and home décor, you can expect to buy almost everything here. This is Gujarat’s cheapest live cloth auction. Here sellers and the buyers come to trade the products in bulk at wholesale prices. The market goes live on Sunday mornings in a specific street in Rajkot. 

  1. Dharmendra Road

Dharmendra Road is one place where you can find almost everything that you need. Here you find ample shops offering traditional as well as western apparel apart from footwear and other things like suitcases. Apart from these shops, there is also a supermarket at Dharmendra Road from where native people usually purchase groceries as well as other home stuff.

  1. Dhebar Road

It is not just bangles and bandhani for which Rajkot is popular, it is also well known for Meenakari art furniture. Here you can find awesome brass as well as ceramic industries and infinite furniture shops on the Dhebar Roa. All these shops offer for sale brilliant brass and wooden temples that are decorated with beautiful yet intricate Meenakari art. To those who are not aware of the Meenakari art, let us tell you that it is basically a form of art where metal surfaces are infused plus ornamented with intricate colorful designs. The fabulously carved furniture available at shops on Dhebar Road is a treat to the eyes of all.

Categories
Asia Himalayas Solo Women Travel Travel Tips

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp – Discovering the roof of the world.

Nepal and the Himalayas – just hearing these words may bring to mind pictures of awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks, colorful prayer flags flapping in the wind, the typical hustle and bustle of Asian streets… but there is so much more to it. The real adventure is something that you can experience, and the best way to discover a country is on foot. One of the best treks for first-timers in Nepal is the Annapurna Base Camp trek (4130 m), which is supposed to be beginner-friendly. Besides the trek itself, this route gives plenty of opportunities to discover nature, take photos and get to know the country and its beautiful people. For hassle-free planning, using a local agent is the best option – they can provide a knowledgeable guide and deal with paperwork, permits, and all the logistics.

Once arrived in Kathmandu, the next stop is Pokhara, which can be reached by private transport or bus – it’s a long ride, but also a good opportunity to watch the outer world through the window and get the first glimpse into the everyday life of the Himalaya nation. For a shorter trip, it is also possible to catch a flight from Kathmandu. Pokhara is still very “city-like”… but the spirit of the mountains is definitely in the air… and if the weather is clear, the Himalayas can be seen at the horizon, setting the mood for the upcoming adventure.

One of the possible starting points of the Trek to ABC is Nayapul. It’s a steep start with countless stone stairs leading the way to higher altitudes. The best strategy is to take many breaks and to remember: If it goes down, it will go up again for sure. With this in mind and good preparation with exercise before the trip, the challenge can be tackled with confidence.

The vegetation at the beginning of the trek is tropical and lush, the route takes trekkers over suspension bridges, through deep valleys, passing waterfalls… Groups of donkeys carrying supplies are a common sight…. Attention! They push through and can give people a harsh kick if they are too close. It’s best to stay away from the downhill side and wait on the mountainside until they pass. Along the way, restaurants or teahouses run by local families serve all kinds of yummy food – anything from pizza or Korean noodles to fried chocolate bars. But the traditional Dal Bhat with lentils, rice, curry, and vegetables is most recommended; it’s a good source of energy, not too heavy, and there is a reason why it is the most favorite dish amongst Nepali. Everyone’s recipe is slightly different, so it never gets boring. Momos (dumplings) are a must-try too, and of course, garlic soup, which can help prevent altitude sickness.

A nice place for a first overnight stay in Ghandruk where trekkers can end the day in company with fellow adventurers, try the local beer, and enjoy the view into the starry sky. Before continuing the trek on the next day, the charming Old Gurung Museum gives an interesting insight into traditional local life. The vegetation at this stage is still lush and green, but reaching higher altitudes, the peaks at the horizon will come closer, the sceneries get rougher and the temperatures drop. If the sky is clear on the next stop (for example Chomrong), an amazing view of Machapuchare (6.993 m) will await. The holy mountain is known as the “Seat of the Buddha of Infinite Light“. During the journey, people from all over the world will cross each other’s paths, and while everyone is having the same goal, it’s a beautiful opportunity to connect, share stories and make new friends. In higher altitudes, the number of guesthouses is limited, but there is always a place to sleep (in Deurali, for example) – and a guide can be very helpful to secure a spot.

The next stop before the big day is Machapuchare Base Camp – from there, Annapurna Base Camp is just a few hours away. Leaving early morning increases the chances of a clear view… The trail to Annapurna Base Camp is not too steep, but the thin air can take its toll, and even if there are no more stairs to climb at this final stage, it is important to not rush. Annapurna Base Camp has a lot of majestic mountain landscapes with 8000 m peaks. The scenery is breathtaking…. and will leave trekkers with memories that last for a lifetime.

To finish the trek with the last highlight, on the way down, trekkers can take a detour to the hot springs of Jhinu Danda. The warm water is bliss for tired muscles and a perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure before heading back to Pokhara.

Categories
Foodie Travel Tips

How can you roam the Philippines as Vegetarian

Being a vegetarian and traveling the world usually do not go hand in hand. However, with a few tips, you can travel across the globe and be a vegetarian at the same time. Talking specifically about traveling to the Philippines there is no need for you to worry and there are a lot of steps that you can take so as to make your trip to the place as vegetarians more comfortable.

Prefer to stay in the urban areas

Finding a variety of food options is comparatively easy in urban areas than in rural areas. People in backward regions are specifically dependent on meant as a source of food. Having said this, it is clear that while planning your trip to the Philippines you must go in for exploring more of the urban regions that sticking to the rural areas for the most part of your trip. There will be a lot of restaurant options at places like Manila where you can easily find vegetarian food.

Opt for a variety of food

The Philippines is naturally well supplied with a plethora of fresh tropical fruits. Right from mouth-watering mangoes to the exotic dragon fruits, the Philippines has a literally wide range of fruit options available for you. So, if you are traveling to this place then you need not worry as you can easily feed on these fruits for a good amount of time without getting bored.

Try small restaurants

All of us try to go to the fancy restaurants totally avoiding the local small scale food joints and it is here that we go completely wrong searching for the right food. Usually, there are plenty of high shot restaurants around the place but few local shops and restaurants. While the former has plenty of food options for the non-vegetarians the latter one has a lot of options for vegetarians. Thus, you must not underestimate the food resources of these small shops for vegetarian travelers.

Highlight your needs

In case you are booking the vacation package from a travel agent then you ought to ensure that you tell them your food preferences. This way they will be able to search for you the hotels where the options for vegetarian food are diverse. Apart from this, you need to tell the servers at the restaurants about your food preferences in detail. At times, it so happens that the vegetarian dishes might not be mentioned on the menu but is actually available with the authorities on special demand. This implies that you should not solely depend on the menu that you are offered at the hotel.

All in all, these are few tips that can be of great help to vegetarians when they are on a trip to the Philippines. Not only for the Philippines, these tips can also be of great help when traveling to any part of the world that is more popular for non-vegetarian food, especially for seafood. Last but not least use Happy Cow!!

Categories
Travel Tips Travel Trends

Explore The Traveler In You  !!

Are you a traveler at heart, and does it create an energizing spirit in your mind? While exploring different types of traveling spirits within yourself, the amplification of knowledge is hard to bear. Have you ever wondered what makes you a traveler at heart? Envisage the time of booking a flight, and the grin you hold is hard to hide. The instant attractions you experience soon after booking the tickets addiction to explore become more intense. Here is what you need to know the traveler in you.

Love photography and technology

If you love to get those perfect shots during a trip, you will get a plethora of opportunities to capture those instant shots. Good photography can create a string of beautiful stories when you share them with all the people you love. Today, you can hardly miss the tech-savvy traveler who uses the latest camera and travel accessories. You can make your creativity to maximize in any location across the globe.

Adventurer

Does your mind respond to all those trips where you will get a host of activities to pursue, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, river rafting, and hiking? You can arrange your tour of those terrains that are relatively difficult. The best option is to organize a trip with a group of travelers to keep your adrenaline rushing. The backpackers are similar to adventurers who love exploring different regions irrespective of the terrain. For the adventurers, traveling to natural regions is the best they can ask. Typically, a wide range of physical activities characterizes adventurous trips.

Exploring fashion trends

For a few travelers, there is nothing more exciting than the excavation of many fashion trends across the globe. Needless to say, we #ghoomophirosisters totally enjoy shopping the local stuff from the place.

Food lovers 

If you are one of those travelers who love to move around in different locations while searching for local cuisine and good food in restaurants, you are a food lover and traveler. While you can look for some of the most reputed places to eat, the small eateries located here, and there are a few places you need to explore. Who knows, you may gorge on the archetypal food items and deviate from the usual as well. 

Romantic at heart 

If you love to watch the stars in the night sky, you are quintessentially romantic. Well, it can be your chance to capture the beach locations that resonate with your thoughts. What is best about a romantic trip is that it includes a lot of other traveling urges.

Searching for soul

The travelers looking for inner peace and wisdom can arrange trips to remote locations that are away from the crowded places. Most of these travelers all alone and prefer experimenting with mountainous locations where peace reigns supreme. 

The real tourist

If you enjoy a host of activities that combine everything from sightseeing, eating, and shopping, you are a standard tourist. These tourists typically carry maps to access different locations and regions where you will find a lot to savor. 

Traveling is one of those activities that excite travelers in one or another form. All you need is to pack your valise before going off for a jaunt.

Categories
Travel Tips

6 Mobile Games That Can Let You Play From Remote Locations

There are plenty of games that you can download on your phone and play even from remote areas. Here we are with some of the best ones:

  1. Johnny Trigger

For anyone who is above 12 years of age, this is an appropriate game to play. It comprises of a secret agent who first shoots first and yells, “This is Johnny Trigger”. The rest of the players are supposed to control Johnny in different phases that are crowded with mob villains. He then eliminates everyone in slow-motion action scenes. Your role as a player is to control the timing of the shots to ensure that Johnny does not miss any shots and ends up hitting successfully. You can download it on Android, iPhone, and iPad.

  1. Woodturning

This game is perfect for those who are fond of the puzzle. The game offers you the experience filled with curiosity where you have a goal of carving a wooden object. This wooden object is rotated without break and the player is supposed to make use of diverse types of chisels in order to try to get closer to the shape that was originally shown. This game is feasible with both Android and iPhone.

  1. Draw Climber

Draw Climber is quite an interesting game where you as a player are supposed to draw the legs of the character. Petty scratches on your touch screen transform into members that propel as your competitors through diverse courses. The type of leg you draw determines if the player is able to beat the opponents and at the same time get enough coins on his way or not. The game can be downloaded on both Android and iPhone.

  1. Mario Kart Tour

This game is again compatible with both Android and iPhone and is a running franchise with the Nintendo’s plumber. N this game the players are put to race on tracks not only in the Mushroom Kingdom but also in the real world, including London and Paris. The control method of this game is comparatively simple as it uses the automatic acceleration of kart helping players to focus particularly on the turns as well as the use of the items.

  1. Ball Pool

Next on our list is again one of the most popular games that are compatible with both Android and iPhone. For those who are die-hard fans of snooker, 8 Ball Pool feeds a package replete with variety as well as clashes against the opponents from around the world. Players come face to face in traditional 8 Ball, 9 Ball games and then try their luck at the Lucky Shot in order to win the extras and a lot more. There are several bars, clubs as well as saloons in the game. The player can have access to a collection of diverse clubs to use.

  1. Take Off: Flight Simulator

This one goes well with Android, iPhone, and PC. The game is basically a popular flight simulator allowing players to fly different types of aircraft on different missions. In addition to this, there is a possibility to open airlines to make trips across the world. The game follows a mission structure as well as company management that is similar to the truck simulators with a difference that it has a bigger challenge of landing in one piece rather than parking.

With these fantastic gaming options, you will not feel boredom around you ever. These are simple to play and literally very interesting and do not even consume much space on your phone.

Categories
Travel Tips Travel Trends

Guide To Travel In The Age Of COVID-19

The spread of coronavirus has aroused anxiety and unrest among those who had already booked their vacations and flight tickets. There are some places where the pandemic has spread more and there are few places where it has reached and access are being reported in high numbers. The epicentre of this virus is deemed to change if the scenario continues with no vaccines currently available to deal with this. In such a scenario whether you should stick to your travel plans or cancel them altogether is a question that remains a moot point of discussion.

Cancelling plans

It is, first of all, a personal choice if you still want to travel amidst the spread of this virus. There are definitely some nations that have restricted tourism and travel for recreational purpose with an intention to control the spread of this epidemic. However, there are many others that have taken no such measures. In case you have planned a trip to a place where coronavirus has still not reached you can definitely continue to stick to your plans but before that, you must have a look at the government policy regarding emigration and immigration. There is no point travelling to and fro from places and eventually having to go into quarantine for 2 weeks or so. A healthy alternative is always to stay back home if possible.

Things to be concerned about

When you travel in normal days, it is totally you who is subject to get bothered with respect to the conditions in the external world. However, during times of pandemic, it is not just you who is going to get bothered by your travel plans. It is surely possible that you travel to and fro from a place without contracting the virus but what about you being a potential carrier of the virus and means of its spread? Being a social animal you ought to consider all these things. By sticking to your travel plans amidst the spread of coronavirus you can be a threat to millions of people who you come across and vice versa.

Refund on cancelling travel plans

It totally depends on the brands that you have made your bookings with. Mostly, you do not get a refund if you plan to cancel the travel on an individual basis but in case it is the government authority or the company itself that cancel the flights then most probably you may get a refund or at least a compensation in one form or the other. Though most of the travel organizations have come out in this crisis and are offering free cancellations.

Travelling in the next few months

In the wake of the spread of this virus, it is hard to say what travelling would be like in months to come. Unless and until governments of different nations do not come to a conclusion regarding controlling the spread it is recommended that you should avoid making travel plans. This is one of the many safety instructions that have been published by the officials of several nations in an attempt to control the spread of this pandemic. Needless to say, before travelling, have

By restricting our travel plans we can be of great help to the public authorities who are trying to put in their best efforts to control the spread. Stay Safe !!

Categories
Festival Travel Tips Travel Trends

Best Sound and Light Shows in India

Eyes, the perceiver of light, are our most used sense organ – in fact, used more than all the other senses combined. Ears, perceivers of sound, take the second spot. And they are also the sense organs with which we take most of our pleasure in – whether it be through music or physical beauty of Alia Bhat. Light and Sound show combined the ability of these two organs to receive pleasure much as movies and theatre do. What sets light and sound shows is that they have lesser involvement of artists compared to theatres. They sprung up during the 1960s and 1970s when music concerts which were immensely popular at that time started using theatrical techniques that controlled lights to enhance the aesthetic of the experience they offered.

The sound and light shows have seen a decline in popularity but have survived and might find revival as new technologies enhance the experience they are capable of providing. With air pollution creating intense health hazards during festival season in Delhi, the government of Delhi had held a new Lights and Sound show to deflect people from using crackers that are a major source of the decline in the quality of air around that time of year.

Today, we shall bring you a list of Light and Sound shows in India that simply can not be missed. :

1. Light and Sound Show at Purana Qila, Delhi

This light show is probably the best and most entertaining way of learning about culture during the time of Mughal rulers and thus makes it to our list of best Light and Sound Shows in India. Locally known by the beautiful name of ‘Ishq-e-Dilli’ or ‘love of Delhi’, the show celebrates the 5000-year-old history of India.

The show is managed by Delhi tourism and the ticket for the show is 100 INR for adults and 50 INR for children (3 to 12 years) and senior citizens.

How to reach Light and Sound Show at Purana Qila, Delhi?

The festival, being held in one of the oldest forts of New Delhi, is easiest to reach.

When is Light and Sound Show at Purana Qila, Delhi held?

Every day except Sunday. If you wish to see it in Hindi go for the 7.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. show whereas if you will like to see it in English, go from 9.00 p.m.To 10.00 p.m. show.

2. Light and Sound Show at Red Fort, Delhi

Another Light and sound show from the capital city, Light and Sound Show at Red Fort is next in our list best light shows in India. A Light and Sound Show that has to find a mention in The Ministry of Utmost Happiness, the Booker prize nominated and shortlisted book by Arundhati Roy; it also has the advantage of being held at one of the most important landmarks of the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be early to have your fill of this historical site before you move on to Light and Sound Show.

The show has a ticket costing 60 INR on weekdays and 80 INR on weekends and government holidays for adults. For children between 3 to 12 years of age, the ticket costs 20 INR for weekdays and 30 INR on weekends.

How to reach Light and Sound Show at Red Fort, Delhi?

Red Fort is a landmark in Delhi and thus very easy to reach.

When is the Light and Sound Show at Red Fort, Delhi held?

Every day except Mondays from 7.30. p.m. to 8.30. p.m. for shows in Hindi language and 9.00 p. m. to 10.00 p.m. in the English language.

3. Light and Sound Show at Amber Fort, Jaipur

The Light and Sound Show of Jaipur is the best way to learn about the beautiful Pink city. The shower covers the history of Amber Fort along with the stories of 28 kings of the Kachhwaha told through music which is sometimes folk and sometimes Bollywood combined with just the right amounts of commentary.

The well preserved Amber Fort is located near Aravalli mountains and Jaipur’s City lights complement the light show immensely well. And the Light and Sound Show is hardly the only attraction for tourists in Jaipur. There is a ticket of 250 INR for the show.

How to reach Light and Sound Show at Amber fort, Jaipur?

Jaipur is well connected to the rest of the country having its airport – Sanganer International Airport. It also is a major railway junction. By roadways, it is connected to the rest of the country via National Highways 8, 11 and 12.

When is Light and Sound Show at Amber fort, Jaipur held?

The show is held all seven days of the week but the timings of the show vary according to the time of the year. There are shows in both Hindi and English and are normally held in evenings and nights. The Hindi shows start at 8 PM in April, 8:30 from May to September and for the rest of the year, the show starts at 7:30 P.M.

The English show starts an hour earlier than the Hindi show – that is, at 7 PM from  March and April, 7:30 P.M. from May to September and 6:30 P.M. for the rest of the year.

4. Light and Sound Show at Golconda Fort, Hyderabad

Hyderabad is one of the most beautiful cities in India and is adorned with a rich history. The best way to learn about its rich history is the Light and Sound show held at Golconda Fort of the city – which makes it to the fourth position in our list of Light and Sound shows. This Light and Sound Show narrated the history of the city when it was ruled by the Qutub Shahi dynasty.

How to reach Light and Sound Show at Golconda Fort?

Hyderabad has its own international airport – Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and 3 railway stations. The city also enjoys great road connectivity. Thus the city enjoys great connectivity by rail, road, and air. Golconda Fort is a local landmark and you will have no trouble reaching it.

When does the Light and Sound Show at Golconda Fort start?

The show has a capacity of 400 people strong audience. The timings vary a lot. For English shows, the timings are 7:00 P.M. from March to October and 6:30 P.M. for November through February.

The other show can either be in Hindi or Telugu – and you must confirm the language if that is the show you are after. It starts an hour and a quarter after the English show – that is 8:15 P.M. from March to October and 7:45 P.M from November to February. The show has a ticket the cost 140 INR for Executive class adults and 110 INR for other adults. For children, it 80 INR for executive class and 60 INR for the rest.

5. Light and Sound Show at Somnath Temple, Gujarat

Leaving History alone for a while, let us now take up Light and Sound show that promise a spiritual experience.

The Somnath Temple of Gujrat doesn’t need a Light and Sound show to attract tourists as it is a Temple of great religious importance to Hindus being one of 12 jyotirlingas of the world. The temple is dedicated to great god Lord Shiva.

That said it does have a brilliant light and sound show using laser lights called Jai Somnath Show. The shows tell you about the history of the temple that was destroyed and reconstructed several times. If that is not enough, the evening arti too is quite a light show in itself.

The show has a ticket of mere 25 INR.

How to reach Light and Sound Show at Somnath Temple, Gujarat?

The nearest airport is at Diu which is 63 kilometers away and you can take taxis from there. The nearest railway station is at Veraval, only 5 kilometers from Somnath. The best way to travel to Somnath is by road and the city enjoys immense road connectivity. We highly recommend combining your trip with that to Dwarka and Diu.

When is Light and Sound Show at Somnath Temple, Gujarat held?

The show is held throughout the year from 8 P.M. to 9 P.M. every day.

6. Sound and Light Show at City Palace, Udaipur

Next in our list of Light and Sound Shows is one held at City Palace, Udaipur. It is the first privately owned Sound and Light show of India. It has its own script titles “Yash Ki Dharohar” written by the respected writer Pandit Narendra Mishra.

The amazing show is carried out in an open area between the palace known as the Manek chowk. The show has a set of 12 episodes, which are showcased one after the other. It is based upon the rich history of the Mewar dynasty. The city palace is immensely well maintained and sitting arrangements are unparalleled for such shows in India.

How to reach Sound and Light Show at City Palace, Udaipur?

The city has its own domestic airport although it is still 22 kilometers away from the city and you might have to hire a cab. The bus stand is within the city and enjoys good road connectivity. The railway connectivity is also good as the city has its own railway station.

When is Sound and Light Show at City Palace, Udaipur held?

The Sound and Light Show at City Palace, Udaipur has its timings from 8:00 pm to 9:00 p.m. from May to August and 8:30 to 9:30 P.M. for the rest of the year. One of the major perks is that the tickets can be booked online and so you don’t have to stand in long queues.

7. Light and Sound Show at Victoria Memorable, Kolkata

Victoria Memorable at Kolkata was constructed in the honor of Queen Victoria. The building that is over a hundred-year-old is a monument of colonial heritage but has been converted into a museum. Come early in order to have your fill of the amazing artifacts the museum has to offer. In the evenings, it holds a Sound and Light Show named pride and glory of the city of Kolkata – celebrating the rich history of the city which was always at the root of India’s freedom struggle.

How to reach Kolkata?

Kolkatta has its own airport – Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU). The railway and road connectivity are equally brilliant.

When is Light and Sound Show at Victoria Memorable held?

The timings for the show in Bengali Show from October to February are 6.15 pm to 07.00 pm and from 06.45 pm to 07.30 pm from March to June. While English shows are held from 07.15 pm to 08.00 pm from October to February and from 07.45 pm to 08.30 pm from March to June. There are no shows for months of July and September. Also, there are no shows on Mondays and National holidays.

8. Light and Sound Show at Mysore Palace, Mysore

Mysore Palace is one of the best palaces in India. One element, for example, has shown the Hindu mythological Goddess Chamundi slew the demon Mahishasure. It has a rich history in India’s freedom struggle – and all the better, if you don’t know about it as then you can learn it from the Sound and Light show held in the city palace.

How to reach Light and Sound Show at Mysore Palace, Mysore?

The nearest airport is at Bangalore only which is a good 170 kilometers away but you can catch a bus from there as Mysore enjoys good road connectivity. Railways are another good option and are only at a distance of 2 kilometers from the city.

How to reach Light and Sound Show at Mysore Palace, Mysore?

If you are going to visit this place, then the timing which you take into consideration is 07.00 pm to 07.40 pm, and the show will remain closed on Sundays along with the national holidays.

Last words

This is all from us today however these are not all the sound and light shows, there are many others such as –

1. Brindaban Sound and Light Show, Mysore, Karnataka

2. Sound and Light Show at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, Panjab

3. Sound and Light Show, Hampi, Karnataka

4. Sound and Light Show, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

5. Sound and Light Show, Port Blair, Andaman, and the Nicobar Islands

6. Sound and Light Show, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

This is all from us. We hope you give this unique form of entertainment a chance because the experience they have to offer is enchanting.

Categories
Travel Tips Treks

Why Is It Important For Our Generation To Trek Rather Than Clubbing?

In the past two decades, the culture of clubbing has experienced an unprecedented boost. However, more and more youngsters these days are switching towards substituting clubbing with trekking. Gone are the days, when youngsters were blindly attracted to the clubs, today they prefer spending their time trekking instead. There are a plethora of reasons behind this. Here we are going to answer, why is it important for our generation to trek rather than clubbing?

Health benefits

Going to club surely does no benefit to the body other than keeping you in shape after you dance the entire night. Contrarily, going on a trek offers you umpteen health benefits. From keeping your body in shape to improving your stamina, it has a lot to offer to you. Trekking exposes you to the hardships that nature might put you through and on the same note also teaches your body to develop the defense mechanism against the same.

First-hand experience

While in a club, a person gets to socialize but on a trek, a person gets an opportunity to come close to nature and get the first hand experienced exploring the corners of the earth that are still untouched. Unlike listening to the recorded music in the clubs, one gets to listen to the voice of the slow-moving winds and chirping of the birds on a trek.

Pure recreational activity

While on a trek, there is no loud music that can cause anxiety. Contrarily there is just nature and its components that offer you the soothing touch. Trekking takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the fast-paced city away into tranquillity.

No burden on pocket

In contrast to clubbing that involves hefty expenditure, going on a trek is cheap. All that it takes is you to have the required clothing and equipment to head out and rest there is a minimal expense that you are required to undertake. Trekking is pocket-friendly for all and sundry.

All in all, all the above-listed reasons are enough to answer Why Is It Important For Our Generation To Trek Rather Than Clubbing? Next time you have an option to choose one of the above listed two activities, you ought to know which one you should choose. Obviously, you should opt for trekking and can reach out to ghoomophirosisters@gmail.com

Categories
Culture Travel Tips Travel Trends

Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you

India is a land of festivals – a title it earns from the diversity of cultures and religions it is home to and which it celebrates.

In fact, you can safely bet that at any given time of the year, a festival or event of some sort is being celebrated in India. And thus we take up one month, February 2020 and tell you all about the festivals and events in It.

Here we bring you a list of festivals and events of India in February 2020:

1. Surajkund International Crafts Mela

One of the biggest exhibitions of the world attracting over a million tourists, Surajkund International Crafts Mela top our list of festival and events in February 2020. The mela is characterized by carts selling handlooms, handicrafts, etc from artisans who have corn from all over the country to sell their products. There are also open-air theatres and cuisines. There is a ticket to be bought every day that has a nominal price ranging from 120 INR on weekdays to Rs. 180 on weekends.

When is Surajkund International Crafts Mela?

From 1st to 17th Feb 2020

What to eat at Surajkund International Crafts Mela?

The cuisine of different states of the country finds its way to this mela so you won’t be lacking for choices for what to eat in here.

How to reach The Surajkund Crafts Mela?

You can reach by metro rail, road or train at your convenience. The nearest metro station to this ma is Badarpur Metro station and you can take an auto or cab to reach the venue. The nearest railway station is the New Delhi Railway station. Surujkund is well connected to the major cities of North India by roadways.

2. Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

Next in our list of festivals and events in February 2020. Is Kala Godhara Arts Festival. Another festival which will let you enjoy the diversity of culture in India, the festival is marked by arts, dances, plays, music gigs, food stalls, etc. Unlike the Surajkund festival, Kala Ghoda Arts Festival requires no entry cost.

When is the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival?

1st – 9th Feb 2020

How to reach Kala Ghoda Arts Festival?

The festival is held in Mumbai which is well connected to the rest of the country by air, water, and road.

What to eat at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival?

The festival is being held in Mumbai and so you can expect the richest variety of cuisine here.

3. Sula Fest

A much smaller event than the previous two, Sula Fest is third in our list of festivals and events in February 2020. It tempts the tourist in you with famous Indi artists, singers, musicians (like Nucleya, Infected Mushroom, Indian Ocean, The Raghu Dixit Project, Infected Mushroom, Bloc Party, etc) with the flavor of the wine. This 3-day fest of ecstasy costs you a pass which must be secured in advance and costs about 5500 INR (for the entire 3-day long festival).

When is Sula Fest?

From 1st to 3rd Feb 2020

When is Sula Fest held?

Sula Fest is being organized in Sula Vineyards near Nashik for the tenth time in 2020. The nearest airports to Nashik are in Pune and Mumbai. Nashik itself has a major railway station connecting it to the rest of India. Roadway connectivity is equally strong.

4. Matho Nagrang Festival

The next item in our list of Best festivals and events in March 2020, Matho Nagrang takes us to Matho monastery, Ladakh. The serene monastery belongs to the Sakya School of Tibetan Buddhism. It is a Buddhist festival that invokes the divine spirits to help solve problems and predict the future. On the two days of festivals, two selected monks stay in isolation where they would meditate for two months in order to call on the divine spirits. The other monks celebrate by wearing colorful costumes, wearing masks symbolizing different gods and enacting performances. The two monks then come out and make predictions and guide local people who have come from far regions for the very purpose of getting their queries and doubts answered. Rich cuisine is also prepared. This is a fascinating festival which is very lively and filled with colors as the other monks join the celebration in colorful costumes and the whole atmosphere is lively.

When is Matho Narang Festival held?

From 1st Feb to 1st March 2020. The celebrations are held in the last two days.

Credit: Holidify

5. Adoor Gajamela

Adopt festival is third in our list of best festivals and events in February 2020. It is ten days long annual celebration held at Sree Parthasarathy Temple, Kerala. The word ‘Gajma’ means elephant and this festival is about a profession of elephants. There are also cultural shows, dance shows, and celebration and it is an amazing chance to taste the locks cuisine. You can shop for souvenirs in stalls and listen to regional music. There are also offerings made to Lord Krishna. The best thing about this festival is that you get the chance to watch the elephant parade in which nine elephants are decorated in a grand manner and made to walk towards the temple.

When is the Adoor Gajmela festival held?

4th Feb 2020

Credit : backwaterbreaks

6. Udaipur World Music Festival

Music lovers can’t afford to miss the next in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Udaipur World Music Festival is attended by over 150 artists all over the world. Traditional, cultural, folk, as well as more modern forms of music loved by the younger generation, are all included.

When is Udaipur World Music Festival held?

From 7th to 9th Feb 2020

7. Alwar Festival

This tourism festival of Alwar comes next in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. It takes place for three days in February and celebration includes fair, elephant polo, fancy dress competition, sketching competition, flower show, film shows, etc Like with other fairs, you won’t be lacking for shops to buy souvenirs together.

When is the Alwar festival held?

From 7th to 9th Feb 2020

8. Jaisalmer Desert Festival

The next event in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you is a festival with a difference. Jaisalmer Desert Festival has a number of unique and amusing events to attract your attention including competitions like Best Moustache competition, Turban tying, Mr. Desert Pagean, etc held in Jaisalmer Fort.

When is the Jaiselmer Festival held?

From 7th to 9th Feb 2020

9. Thaipooya Mahotsavam

Head to Sree Subrahmanya Swamy Temple in Payyanur Kerala for the next item in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Thaipooya Mahotsavam is a religious festival that celebrated Lord Murugan, the God of Hindus. It is famous for its rituals (pilgrims carry a curved wooden arch with decorations (kavadi) and dancing towards the temple), colorful celebrations (fireworks, devotees piercing themselves with lances in their cheek or tongue) and the art forms that characterize it.

When is Thaipooya Mahotsavam?

February 8, 2020

10. Mahindra Blues Festival

It is attended by performances from artists from all over the world converging and performing at one place in the posh suburb of Bandra, Mumbai. The festival held yearly since 2011 is worth attending even for the price of the pass that comes to nearly 4000 INR. It is thus a favorite in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you

When is the Mahindra Blues Festival?

On 8th Feb 2020

11. World Sufi Festival

Yet another festival in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you that music lovers can’t afford to miss is Word Sufi Festival. Mehrangarh Fort will be illuminated with 5000 small oil lamps and many poets, dancers, musicians, artists, fashion and films will be performing in celebration of the great legacy of Sufi religion. There will also be workshops and shows. You can stay in a tent within the fort to get the maximum pleasure out of the festival.

When is World Sufi Festival?

From 11th to 15th Feb 2020

12. Shekhawati Heritage Festival

The Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is the land of Rajputs. Rajputs of region are famous for their colorful celebrations and this heritage festival, that makes it to our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020, is a tribute to their rich culture. This festival is celebrated in many venues in Rajasthan like Nawalgarh, Churu, Dikar, Jhunjhunu etc. Nawalgarh is the location we recommend. You can enjoy many workshops, rural games, exhibitions,  food courts, fireworks, cattle fairs, stalls, award ceremonies etc.

When is the Shekhawati Heritage Festival?

From 12th to15th Feb 2020

13. Elephanta Festival

Elephanta Festival is next in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. It is a two-day festival that is conducted near Gateway of India, Mumbai. As the name suggests, it is dedicated to the famous heritage site of Elephanta caves of Mumbai. In fact it yes to be held at Elephants Island but had to be shifted due to the large size of the crowd it would attract.

When is the Elephanta Festival held?

From 13th to 15th Feb 2020

14. Pariyanampetta Pooram Kattakulam

The next event in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you is Pariyanampetta Pooram Kattakulam. It is a seven-day event in Kattukulam of Palakkad district in Kerala. Other common attractions include a procession of elephants, folk dances, arts, rituals, etc all come together in this annual celebration at Pariyanampetta Bhagavathy Temple.

When is Pariyanampetta Pooram Kattakulam?

From  14th to 20th Feb 2020

15. India Art Festival

Mumbai has yet another contribution in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you in the form of India Art Festival. It aims and does provide a platform to artists throughout modern art fair, art galleries, art collectors and connoisseurs at one platform. The forms of art include paintings, sculptures, drawings, installations with video and digital art from over 400 artists. There are also panel discussions and workshops. The cherry on the cake is that the entry is free. The art lover won’t want to let go of such an opportunity.

When is the Indian Art Festival?

From 17th to 20th Jan 2019

16. Taj Mahotsav

Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world is the venue of the next item in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. The ten-day festival is held near the Eastern gate of the Taj Mahal, Agra where there is a splendid display of Indian culture and traditions. This festival is gaining lots of popularity in recent years.

When is Taj Mahotsav?

From 18th to 27th Feb 2020

17. Konark Festival

The five-day festival coming in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you is the Konark festival held in Natamandir (open-air auditorium), inside Konark Temple of Odisha. Though initially it was created to preserve the dying folk dances, several other art forms have also found a platform in this festival.

When is the Konark Festival?

From Feb 19th to 23rd of every year

18. Natyanjali Dance Festival

Natyanjali Dance Festival is a weeklong festival and forms the next item in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Celebrated in Nataraja temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva who is showed in dancing poses, around Tamil Nadu. To have the best of this festival, head to Natarajar Temple of Chidambaram, a temple town of Tamil Nadu. The festival is marked by traditional dance performances from Dancers around the world. The festival is celebrated Chennai, Nagapattinam, Kumbakonam, Thiruvanaikoil, Thirunallar, Mayavaram, Thanjavur, etc.

When is the Natyanjali Dance Festival?

From 21th to 28th Feb 2020

19. Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri is next in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Though the festival dedicated to Lord Shiva is celebrated throughout the country, we recommend heading to cannabis and enjoy the cannabis drink there among other celebrations such as dancing to devotional songs.

When is Maha Shivratri?

On 21st Feb 2020

20. Goa Carnival

This is a color riot to see as Goa celebrates its annual carnival with much pomp and show. There are grand processions, great food, dance and music performances etc. The procession goes through the city of Panjim and other major cities to spread the message of merrymaking. The Goa carnival culminates with Red and Black Ball dance and the crowning of King Momo (Ball takes place at Clube National in Panjim). The end of the festival also marks the beginning of Lent which is time when people abstain from consuming rich foods like meat, alcohol etc.

The next item in our list of best Festivals of India in March that will leave you backpacking is Goa Carnival held from 22nd to 25th Feb is Goa Carnival. The festival is a legacy of the years of Portuguese rule. This tremendously festival is marked by spectacular and colorful floats parades, dances, music and of course awesome food.

When is Goa Carnival?

From 22nd to 25th Feb 2020

21. Losar Festival

Tibetan New Year, as the Losar festival is called in other words, is one of the most important festivals for the Tibetan population of India and thus could not be ignored while compiling our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Ladakh, Sikkim, Dharamshala, Arunachal Pradesh, etc are some of the areas where you can go to join the celebration. Masked dance performances and Bushiest cuisine are some of the best things about this festival.

When is Losar Festival?

From 24th to 26th Feb 2020

22. Khajuraho Dance Festival

Khajuraho is a deceptively small town of Madhya Pradesh despite the rich history and cultural heritage it stands as a mark of. Every year dancers gather here from 25th Feb to March 3, 2020, and show their art as long as it shares the theme of mythology including Tandava dance, Raas Leela dance, etc making it a natural member in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you.

When is Khajuraho Dance Festiva?

from 25th Feb to March 3, 2020

23. Nagaur Fair

After Sonepur Mela, the second-largest cattle fair of the country is held in Nagaur, Rajasthan. The Nagaur Fair is a 4-day event felling on 30th Jan to 2nd Feb next year and thus makes it to our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. While you will see lots of camels, horses, and Bullocks; there are also performances by artists, camel races, tug of wars, etc.

When is Nagpur Festival?

From 30th Jan to 2nd Feb 2020

24. World Sacred Spirit Festival

This festival celebrated in Jodhpur makes it to our list of Best Festivals and Events in February 2020 on the back of its celebration of scared spirit which goes beyond the boundaries of all religions. The festival, much like many other festivals, is marked with folk music, spiritual art, dance, etc as artists from all over the world gather at Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur to perform on this festival that falls from 17th to 20th Feb and thus is a part of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you.

When is World Sacred Spirit Festival?

From 17th to 20th Feb.

25. Deccan Festival

The next item in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you is the Deccan Festival. It is held by the tourism board in Hyderabad every year from 25th to 29th Feb 2020 and is the next item in our list of best festivals and events in February 2020. The festivals are marked by a display of art, culture, music, poetry and culinary delight. Plenty of opportunities to buy souvenirs as you have the option of choosing from countless souvenirs from around the region.

When is the Deccan Festival?

from 25th to 29th Feb 2020

26. Hampi Festival

Also called the Vijaya festival, the Hampi festival falls on 25th to 27th Feb 2020 and is the next item in our list of Best temples and festivals in India. The festival focuses on the heritage and history of the Vijaynagar Empire and is dated from the times of that great medieval empire. Art, puppet shows, elephant processions, Light and Sound Shows, music, dance, and spiritual celebrations come together to form the mix that is this festival.

When is the Hampi Festival?

From 25th to 27th Feb 2020

Last words

Here we bring this list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. How many of them managed to tempt you?

Categories
Travel Tips

Cash versus Card – Why Ghoomophiro sisters recommend having a card while traveling abroad

Cash or card? A brief answer would be both. Naturally, it is imperative that you should have cash at your disposal when traveling; especially abroad. However, to make a trip entirely on the back of cash is absurdly impractical.

Cash is the go-to solution for those who won’t be bothered with too many troubles as almost all merchants the world over will accept the local currency.

However, financing your travel entirely through cash will bring a number of disadvantages such as:

1. Cash is easily lost and can’t be replaced.

2. Cash is easily stolen and carrying large amounts of it is bound to attract thieves and robbers.

3. You risk losing value while converting cash from one currency to other.

4. If you carry extra cash for contingency, you risk losing extra value on conversion. If you don’t, you take unnecessary risks.

5. You are more easily get cheated and are more likely to be cheated on transactions made in cash.

6. You lose on discounts that might be availed with card payments.

However, relying exclusively on credit cards also has certain disadvantages as well such as:

1. Cash only businesses. A problem that grows stronger in third world countries where street vendors, small businesses refuse to accept payment in any form other than cash.

2. Other merchants might accept cards but only EMV cards leaving magstripe cards unnecessary.

3. Some merchants or rules of some places might so require that only cards of local places leaving that of yours useless.

4. Your bank might charge you some percentage of payment (2 percent? 5 percent?) on international transactions you might make on your card.

5. Some merchants might require a verification id.

We thus highly recommend the use of Card for most of your Trip’s expenses with only very little pocket money to be carried as cash. This pocket money is needed to pay where card payments won’t do. But wherever possible, card payments should be preferred because:

1. It is convenient. You don’t have to pay lots of cash.

2. It is easier to make online payments.

3. You can cancel your card if it gets stolen. So, it is at best an inconvenience. While if your cash gets stolen, your loss is real.

4. You get fraud coverage – some banks also provide insurance covering loss due to stolen cards.

5. You have a chance to get bonuses, discounts and other rewards depending on your bank.

6. Credit cards get you best exchange rates

To reduce your inconvenience, you should keep the following tips in mind:

1. Carry EMV cards rather than magstripe cards. EMV cards are more useful, more secure and more likely to be accepted.

2. Carry more than one card. Preferably 2 or 3. Placed at different places so that even if you lost one, you should have another to see you through.

3. Prefer credit cards over the other kinds to benefit in exchange rates.

4. Ensure that you have credit enough and some on your card before you start.

5. Tell your bank that you are going abroad in advance. Otherwise, an international transaction might be considered suspicious likely to get your card suspended or, at worst, banned altogether.

6. Keep contact details of your bank handy (save them in a note in your mobile); they will be needed if your card gets stolen.

7. Try to make sure your card has liability insurance on your purchases. Be in the know, the offers banks are giving.

8. As far as possible make payments through the card.

9. Don’t carry unnecessary cash in your pocket.

10. Wherever you go, check over the internet to ensure the usefulness of your card in that place in advance.

We at Ghoomophiro celebrate the increasing popularity of paperless money as it is empowering for travelers in general and women travelers, in particular, reducing their vulnerability to fraud, theft or loss.

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