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Your Holiday Plan for 2020 with several extended weekends

Are you one of those who love to plan your holidays in advance? If your answer is yes, we have a holiday plan for you which offers you the chance to have 12 big getaways within 2020 by making use of some big weekends covering it all – mountains, beaches, adventures, festivals, etc.

If you are one of those people who love to plan their holidays and apply for leaves much before everyone else in the office – though we have tried our best to ensure you won’t need a leave-in most cases, the list of long weekends in 2020 will come in handy for you. Modify this plan to make one of your own and you can apply leaves in advance.

January 11 to 13

Lohri a popular holiday falls on January 13 every year which in 2020 happens to be Monday. Along with the previous two days, it gives you enough time for the perfect weekend.

Suggested places to visit:

Although you can go anywhere, there is no place better than Punjab to be around Lohri. We recommend making Amritsar as your destination. Visit Lohri Mela there; the prestigious golden Temple, the most important religious spot for Sikhism, and Jallianwala bagh which still has the aura of terror created by the 1919 massacre there.

February 21 to 23

Mahashivratri falls on February 21 in 2020 which is a Friday and thus adds an extra day to your weekend.

Suggested place to visit:

Ujjain is one of the best places to celebrate it. Mahakaleshwar Temple is one of the 12 jyotirlingas. The festival is celebrated on the banks of the local river Kripa. According to the local legend, Lord Shiva took residence here on request of citizens of Avanti (the ancient city later renamed as Ujjain). The request was made after Shiva vanquished Dushana, a demon who tortured the people of Avanti. Kal Bhairva Temple, Ram Mandir Ghat, Bharatihari Cave are some of the other spots you can visit.

March 7 to 10

The colorful festival of Holi falls on a Tuesday in 2020. Thus you might have to take a leave on Monday, March 9, but it shall leave at your disposal a 4 day weekend from March 7 (Saturday) to March 10 (Tuesday).

Suggested Place to visit

Where better to go to celebrate Holi if you can go to Mathura and/or Vrindavan. The two towns of spiritual importance being connected to the life of Lord Krishna have many amazing temples to offer. And Holi is a popular festival here being a festival being much loved by Lord Krishna himself.

April 2 to 6

A gazetted holiday Ram Navami falls on April 2 (Thursdays) and another Mahavir Jayanti falls on April 6 (Monday). Weekend falls on April 4 and 5. if you can take a leave on April 3 (Friday). Even if you do not get the leave you still have a 3 day weekend (April 4 to 6).

Suggested places to visit

The longest weekend of the year is best celebrated by going to Karbatsk. You will find with us a five-day itinerary that will help you get the best of Odisha – including it’s a holy triangle of Bhuvneshwar, Konark Sun Temple, Puri, Chilka Lake and many other amazing spots with evenings on sea beaches also included.

April 10 to 12

Good Friday is always on Friday and a gazetted holiday always adds to your weekend. Just 3 days since you came back it is time already to go backpacking again.

Suggested places to go

The twin towns of Mussorie very deservedly called the ‘Queen of Hills’ is the perfect place to go to. If you are still tired from your last weekend travels, the holiday will be very laid-back lazying in the cradle of Himalayas. If fancy has you to see places; there are several to be found here – Kempty falls, mall road, Sir George Everest House, Sister’s Bazaar, Char Dukan, etc.

May 23-25

With the gazetted holiday of the festival of Id-ul-Fitr falling on May 25, Monday; we have another 3-day long weekend.

Suggested places to go

Darjeeling is our suggestion for this weekend. A chance to ride toy trains (especially through Batasia Loop) and Ropeways; river rafting, as well visiting Tiger Hills, Nightingale Park, Singhalia National Park, Rock Garden, the Peace Pagoda, Sandkhaphu, etc and of course the world-famous tea plantations are some of many attractions that this hill town has to offer.

October 2 to 4

October 2 is the National holiday being Gandhi Jayanti as always. In 2020 it falls on Friday giving you a three-day long weekend.

Suggested places to visit

Indore, aptly dubbed as the food capital of India, and now the cleanest city of the country is the place to be for the first half of this weekend – visit Rajwada Temple, Lal Bagh Temple, Indore Museum, etc are some of the places to visit in Indore. For the second half of the holiday make a trip to the holy island of Omkareshwar and holy town of Maheshwar.

October 24 -26

Dushera falls on October 26 which is Monday. You this have a three long weekend

Suggested places to go:

With relatively cool temperatures; it is a good time to visit the pink city of Jaipur. Amber city light and sound show, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, etc are some of the city’s countless attractions.

October 30 to November 1

The third long weekend in the blessed month of October is occasioned by Id-e-Milad which falls on October 30, a Friday in 2020 and thus… You guessed it, a three-day long weekend.

Suggested places to visit

Delhi shall be the destination we suggest for this 3 day weekend. The capital city has a rich history and is thus full of a number of attractive places to see like India Gate, Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Chandani Chawnk, Lotus Temple, Humayun Tomb, Rashtrapati Bhavan to name a few.

November 13 to 15

Diwali, unfortunately, falls on November 14 a Saturday in 2020 but Chhoti Diwali which falls on a day before (November 13, Friday) will still increase your weekend to 3 days.

Suggested places to go

It is cliche to reserve Goa for Christmas or new year’s Eve and we have something special to suggest for Christmas. The occasion of Diwali is the occasion for Narak Chaturdashi which unusually celebrates the victory of a demon named Naraksur. The festival is marked by grand possessions throughout the state. And of course, there are beaches, wine, natural beauty, etc.

November 28 to 30

Guru Banal Jayanti falls on November 30, a Monday in 2020. This makes for another 3 day weekend.

Suggested places to go

If you haven’t already seen the Taj Mahal, let this be your occasion to make a trip to Agra. Jama Masjid, Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar’s tomb are some of the other places to see in Agra.

December 25 to 27

The Christmas day falls on a Friday bringing in another 3 day weekend with Saturday and Sunday that follows on December 26 and 27.

Suggested Places to go:

An Andaman island named Swaraj Island is our suggestion for this holiday – a perfect place to enjoy the incredible beauty of the Arabian sea.

This is all from us today. You can use our plan as a draft to plan your own holiday. Feel free to make adjustments and changes according to your tastes and needs. 🙂

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15 places in India to see before 2022

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all Indians to visit at least 15 tourist destinations to promote domestic travel in India, it becomes important to list out 15 beautiful destinations one must visit before 2022. India’s tourism sector is so dependent on foreign travelers since many tourists love the idea of visiting India, yet the people of India feel the need to visit abroad before they have visited every state in India. Many places in India are worthy of international attraction, yet ignored by domestic tourists, mainly due to lack of awareness or lack of infrastructure. But the increase in the number of tourists will only boost the economy of the place, leading to better facilities and development of the locals living there.

  1. The Beach Paradise in Andaman

When we ghoomophirosisters visited Andaman we were so surprised by the underwater beauty that we had to question why Andaman wasn’t as popular as the Maldives or other international destinations. Even though afraid of water, we thought of Hrithik Roshan in ZNMD and took the plunge. For lovers of the aquamarine or people living in mountainous areas, this beach paradise will be a pleasant surprise. The best time to visit Andaman is from November to April.

What to do: Apart from water sports like snorkeling, jet skiing, scuba diving, and others, Andaman also has many other tourist attractions. There is a Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park there along with a Rajib Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair. You can spend a relaxing day at Radhanagar Beach or visit the Cellular Jail National Memorial. Andaman also has other popular beaches like Merk Bay, Wandoor and Corbyn’s Cove beach.

How to visit?

Air connectivity through Vir Savarkar Airport in Port Blair. Sea connectivity with major cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Vishakhapatnam through Haddo Wharf Port in Port Blair.

  1. Realms of Wilderness in Binsar

Binsar is one of the lesser-known places in India that is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. It is located in the heart of Almora in Kumaoni and is known for its wild jungles, incredible heights, and peaceful surroundings. Mark Binsar on your calendar between October or November.

What to do?

We went to Binsar during December but since it was the peak season, most of the camping sites were booked. Binsar has many incredible camping sites but they are mostly booked in advance yet we were lucky enough to get our bookings done. We also went on a Jeep Safari in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and saw Himalayan Deer, Leopards, Barking Deer, Porcupine, and flying squirrel. Binsar also has other places we went for sight-seeing at like the famous Mahadev Temple, Mary Budden Estate, Zero Point and Pariyadeva Pashan.

Though not many, Binsar does have a nice vegetarian restaurant called Dolma restaurant with good food and genuine prices. For dessert, there is Baba Cake nearby.

How to visit?

Binsar is 152 km away from the nearest domestic airport which is in Pantnagar. Rail connectivity is through Kathgodam Railway Station which is 119 km away. There is also road connectivity with the nearest neighboring cities.

  1. The Coffee Plantations in Coorg

Coorg is a gorgeous hill station in Karnataka that is just a quick ride away from Bangalore. The best time to visit is from October to March. We went to Coorg mainly for the enriching Coffee Plantations which the place has plenty.

What to do?

Coorg also has many other attractive places like the Abbey Falls. We went hiking on Brahmagiri Peaks and also spent a calm day at Namdroling Monastery. A week is enough time to explore the entire place. One day we were on a Jeep Safari to Nagarhole National Park and the next we went ziplining in River Kaveri. The Nalknad Palace and Iruppu Falls left a memorable imprint on our minds.

How to reach?

By air: Mangalore is the nearest airport which is 156 km away.

By rail: The nearest railway station is 106 km away called Mysore Junction.

By road: It takes 5 and a half hours to reach Coorg from Bangalore. It is a 238 km long ride.

  1. Camp at Kanatal

Kanatal in Uttarakhand is one of the best places we have found for camping. We spent a weekend at Kanatal enjoying great weather and panoramic sceneries. Though we visited Kanatal in July, the best time to visit Kanatal is between April and June.

What to do?

38 km from Mussorie, you can only imagine the kind of beauty Kanatal possesses. At the shore of Tehri Lake, we enjoyed the rich view of the sunset and also visited the famous Sukranda Temple. The Kodia Jungle gives the place a mystic aura and the New Tehri Dam is a sight one must not miss. Go valley crossing as it is one of the most popular adventure sports in Kanatal. The charges for it are just Rs 300 for a 10-15 minute activity. To get into the “Pahari” feel, we stayed in a homestay in Kanatal. It was there that we enjoyed the delicious Pahari food.

How to reach?

By air: Jolly Grant Airport is located at a distance of 92 km from Kanatal.

By rail: Rishikesh railway station located at a distance of 75 km is the nearest railhead to Kanatal.

  1. Paragliding at Bir Billing

Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh is the place that held the first-ever World Cup for Paragliding. If you are an adventure enthusiast and haven’t visited Bir Billing yet, book your tickets for April, May or June. Bir Billing has more than ten paragliding spots and is popularly known as the paragliding capital in India.

What to do?

First of all, go paragliding and if left with some time, visit the Billing Valley and the historic temples nearby. Bir Billing has Chamunda Temple, Bajinath Shiv Temple and a Shiva Shrine that attracts pilgrims from all across the country. You can also visit the Ahju Fort and enjoy delicious Himachali cuisine.

How to reach?

By air: Kangra airport, the nearest airport is 67 kilometres from Bir.

By rail: The nearest railway station to Bir Billing is Pathankot which is 140 km away.

By road: Bir Billing is accessible by road as it is connected with nearby cities of Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali, Shimla through buses.

 

  1. Tirthan Valley in Himachal

Who has not heard of the famous Kullu-Manali? Kullu valley is known for its beauty and in the heart of District Kullu in Tirthan Valley. We visited Tirthan in the hot summers of June and were surprised how a place can be so calm and adventurous at the same time. On one hand, the beautiful scenery of the valley laid our hearts to rest while traveling through Great Himalayan National Park was a thrill beyond imagination. Raghupur Fort embodies the rich history of Himachal while Jalori Pass Trek was both challenging and fulfilling.

How to reach?

By air: Bhuntar airport is 48 km away.

By rail: Ambala railway station is 188 km away.

By road: One can also enjoy the scenic road trip via car or bus from the nearby states.

 

  1. Ski Lovers Unite at Auli

One trip to Auli will make you never want to travel out of India. Located in Uttarakhand, the snowy mountains of Auli are best for Skiing and even if you don’t know the basics of Skiing, the activity is just as fun to watch. The best time to visit Auli is during winters when it is all covered in snow i.e from December to February. But even during the summers, Auli has its charm with captivating sunsets and mesmerizing view of the Himalayas.

Kuari Pass Trek and Pangarchulla Peak are the main attractions of Auli but one can also visit Kalpeshwar and Sri Hemkunt Sahib.

How to reach?

By air: The Nearest airport is Jolly Grant airport of Dehradun.

By rail: Haridwar railway station is the nearest railway head from Auli.

By road: Travel towards Joshimath which is well connected to many towns and cities of Uttarakhand. From here, Auli is a short ride away.

  1. See the Valley of Flowers

The Valley of Flowers has more than 300 flower species. Located in Uttarakhand, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many travelers already have it on their bucket list and since it is located at an altitude of 3,858 meters above the sea level, families often go on this trek. We visited Valley of Flowers during the peak season in July and got such great pictures. The only issue is that travelers need to be more caring for the environment when they visit the Valley of Flowers. The untouched beauty of the various species of flowers seems to be getting polluted by plastic wrappers and traveler’s nonchalant attitude towards the environment.

How to reach:

You can book a trek and have a customised itinerary for your visit to the Valley of Flowers.

  1. The Royal Jodhpur

Known as the Blue City of Rajasthan, Jodhpur has forts that will entrap you in the history and the royal old era. From Mehrangarh Fort located at a hilltop to stone pavements and royal landscapes, Jodhpur oozes the essence of Rajasthan. The main city of Jodhpur has many restaurants and we tried the Bajre ka Sogra and Badam Halwa. Visit Jodhpur from October to February because that’s when the weather is most comfortable for the visitors. The summer months in Rajasthan are quite harsh.

How to reach:

By air: Jodhpur has a domestic airport connected to major cities.

By rail: Jodhpur Railway Station is also widely connected.

By road: Road to Jodhpur is also smooth and easily accessible.

 

  1. Offbeat getaway at Prashar Lake

One of the top tourist attractions in Himachal, known for trekking enthusiasts and gorgeous views of the Dhauladhar range is Prashar Lake in Mandi District. Trekking till Prashar Lake is a mid-difficulty level trek. There is a three-tiered temple right near the Lake that is beautifully constructed. There is also Bhutnath Temple with great architecture located on Samkhetar, Mandi.  There is a Shanan Hydel Project that is another tourist attraction in Barot village in Mandi. The best time to visit is April to July or September to November.

How to reach

By air: Kullu Manali airport is the nearest airport which is 73 km away from Mandi.

By rail: The nearest railway station is 50 kilometres away.

  1. Explore the Alpine Forests of Dhanaulti

The thick alpine forests located 2200 meters high in Dhanaulti bordering Mussorie is an offbeat destination for those who wish to live the true wildlife. The Eco Park in Dhanaulti is filled with lush green trees and it also has adventure sports for kids such as commando net, Burma Bridge and Flying Fox. It is a huge and well-maintained park. We went camping at Thangdhar Camp and also visited Surkanda Devi Temple. We visited Dhanaulti during September and September to June is the best time to visit the place.

How to reach

By air: Jolly Grant Airport is 82 km away.

By rail: Dehradun railway station is 25 km away from Dhanaulti.

By road: One can also travel via road from the nearby cities.

 

  1. The Spiritual Varanasi

The spiritual ghats of Varanasi might not call to you until you have crossed 30 but there is nothing to make you feel truly mortal as a visit to Varanasi. The Pooja Aarti, Prayers and calm banks of the holy river made us feel the essence of what it means to live in India. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Durga Temple and two renowned tourist attractions. Apart from that, there is Assi Ghat, Manmandir Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat which are worth visiting. Mark your calendars between October and February.

How to reach

By air: Varanasi has a domestic airport which is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport.

By rail: Kashi Railway Station and Varanasi Junction are the two major railway stations.

By road: Varanasi is well-connected with nearby cities via road.

 

  1. Amidst the Clouds in Meghalaya

Meghalaya is the much-awaited holiday destination on every traveler’s list. Who wouldn’t love to be amidst the clouds, surrounded by mighty green mountains? Caving in Meghalaya is also one of the greatest adventurous activities but only partake if you aren’t afraid of insects and dark spaces. Some other places to visit in Meghalaya are Khasi Hills, Garo Hills, Seven Sisters Falls. Enjoy the sunset neat Umiam Lake and feel the serenity of Nohkalikai Falls. Click the best selfies at Shillong View Point and Nohwet Living Root Bridge. Plan your visit between March and July.

How to reach?

By air: Umroi Airport is the nearest domestic airport.

By rail: Guwahati Junction is the nearest railway station with good connectivity to other cities.

  1. Land of Waterfalls- Cherrapunjee

Cherrapunjee in Meghalaya deserves a stay for at least a week. Its living root bridges made of rubber trees are the biggest attraction and seem like something straight out of a fairytale. The Mawsmai Caves and several waterfalls add to the tourism potential of Cherrapunjee. Nohkalikai Falls, Daiñthlen Falls, and Kynrem Falls are worth a visit. Since the weather in Cherrapunjee is mostly rainy, you can visit it from November to May.

How to reach?

By air: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the nearest airport and is 153 km away.

By rail: Guwahati is the nearest railway station.

  1. Dalhousie

Dalhousie is known for its world-famous architecture. The Victorian era architecture amidst the refreshing green mountains and mesmerizing rivers acts as a charming spot for travelers. Go on a jeep safari in Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. The architecture of St John’s Church will leave you awestruck. Some other places to visit are Satdhara Falls, Subhash Baoli, and Chamunda Devi Temple. Visit from March to June.

How to reach?

By air: Pathankot is the nearest airport.

By rail: Pathankot is also the nearest railway station.

By road: Dalhousie is well-connected via road.

Plan out your travels till 2022 and do visit some of these places with your entire family to support domestic travel in India!

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Zodiac sign and travelling habits

This is not one of those quizzes where you check whether your chances of success in life are determined by your zodiac signs. But your zodiac does determine many of your behavioral traits and as such your traveling habits too. Based on that, see whether you are what your sun sign says you should be. And if yes, then we recommend some fantastic places which you will love.

  1. Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Those born with Aquarius as their zodiac sign are adrenaline junkies and are always looking for their next high. They love meeting strangers and striking new conversations. They prefer off-beat getaways and places that are still unexplored by most travellers. Though quite energetic, Aquarians are easy-going and looking for inner peace while travelling. They find secluded beaches, museums and insider places that only locals know of. You won’t find an Aquarian fearful of eccentric places. Most of the time, Aquarians volunteer for Peace corps or involve themselves in volunteer travel activities because they feel deeply impacted by injustices and everything that is wrong with the world.

Travel Tip: Aquarians are not good at specifics so they have trouble making reservations in hotels and transportation.

Which places will Aquarius love: Sri Lanka, Andaman and Nicobar, Moscow, Ooty, Mukhteshwar, Finland

  1. Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Pisces born are wandering souls but quite impulsive. Just like their zodiac sign, they love water and will prefer travelling to coastal areas, booking cruises or staying in houseboats. They are the ones who make last-minute travel plans and head out on epic adventures. Packing is not their strong point and they will throw together whatever first hits their mind. They do not plan ahead or organise their travels. Going with the flow is their essential trait. But that also makes them forgetful with their come-what-may attitude. They have great intuitions about their surroundings and love freedom while travelling. Even in hotels, they like spending time by the pool. Pisces are not comfortable with new people and tend to spend some time in solitude to recharge.

Travel-Tip: Try having a to-do list or a checklist of all things you should carry for your travels.

Which places would Pisces love: Goa, Fiji, Bali, Pondicherry, Malaysia.

  1. Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Those born with Aries as their zodiac sign are true foodies. They are the ones you find with food blogs and ask for culinary advice. Aries-born will always look for the best restaurants and special local cuisines to try when they travel. They love outdoors but are very impatient. Aries usually have an itinerary at hand and wish to cross off all places on their list. Since they want to see everything, they do not wait to soak in the beauty of the place or appreciate the essence of travelling. Trying to make it to every place makes it more like a chore than travel for Aries. But Aries born love to travel, they are outgoing and enjoy taking out some time to visit new travel destinations. They are independent travellers and don’t mind going solo to enjoy their journey. They have a child-like curiosity for every place and tend to pick up travelling partners along the way. Travelling with Aries means so many stories to tell and an unforgettable trip. If they decide they want to go somewhere, you can be sure, they will make it there, even if it is challenging.

Travel tip: Put “a leisurely afternoon, enjoying sunset” in your itinerary.

Which places will Aries love: Manali, Dubai, Darjeeling, Portugal, Rome.

  1. Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

They just want luxury. Taurus love pleasure and getting pampered. They would book the best resorts, avoid crowded places, spend time in high-end restaurants and posh areas sipping freshly brewed tea. Taurus enjoy spa massages and relaxing evening at beaches. Any place with a plush surrounding and excellent food will automatically become their top priority. Taurus is an earth sign, so they enjoy nature and natural settings. Seeing a tea garden or living in a cottage at the top of hills, that is their ideal travel plan. They are fond of aesthetics and visually appealing places and will prefer food that looks as good as it tastes. Taureans also are a victim of habits and will prefer travelling to the same location more than once just to get a sense of security. They like being in control and knowing what will happen next so you can’t expect impulsive decisions or last-minute travel plans. But wherever they travel, they take their time. They would experience everything slowly to absorb things and sights.

Travel Tip: Try something new – a new destination or a new café might inspire you to explore more.

Which places will Taureans love: Paris, Thailand, Cape Town, Kochi, Daman and Diu.

  1. Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Geminis are inquisitive when it comes to travelling. They want to go sightseeing but also know the history of the place. They have a deep thirst for knowledge and wish to have a better understanding of the world. They are the ones who will interact most with locals to find everything about the place they are visiting. Gemini can be spotted in a group because they will be the ones following the guide and listening keenly. But there’s another side to Geminis as well. They also like having an adventurous and active nightlife. They bring energy with them when they travel and party hard. Geminis are good with languages and so don’t have much trouble while travelling to a completely new place. Geminis have varied interests and you can never tell what they will plan next. Geminis like connecting with people and will have friends all across the globe.

Travel Tip: Social by nature, let Geminis do the talking while travelling to a new place.

Where Geminis would love to travel: Jaipur, Ajanta Caves, Venice, Rameshwaram

  1. Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Those with Cancer as their Zodiac sign are looking for laidback travel expeditions. They like going on tours and picnics with their family and friends where they can relax, enjoy and don’t have to do much of the planning. Their ideal vacation is getting to stay at a homestay with their favourite person and just relaxing indoors, though they wouldn’t mind exploring new things. Cancerians seek peace and comfort so they would prefer travelling with companions they are familiar with. They are quite balanced and so they prefer an itinerary that has both adventure and relaxation. They would love to go trekking but would also want to lay in the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of the place. While travelling alone, Cancerians stay timid and avoid conversations with strangers. It takes time for them to trust someone and so they won’t be asking anyone for help either. They have an easy-going attitude about travelling and so going on a trip with a Cancerian is the most fun.

Travel Tip: Go for a spa at the resort you are staying at because it will give you a home-like feel and also revitalise you.

What places would Cancerians love to visit: Hawaii, Munnar, Philippines, Bora Bora

 

  1. Leo(July 23 – August 22)

Nobody loves glamour as much as Leos. They are spoiled and would love to show-off each and every bit of their exquisite travel adventures. They want luxurious experiences and so tend to pick the best places, the best hotels and the best restaurants. You would find Leos booking months in advance just to get the aeroplane seat they want. Leos also enjoy art and culture as much as adventure sports. So it is easy to spot a Leo at the Grand Canyon or even at an art gallery. They are an optimist but also cautious and so they travel in style. They wish to be the centre-of-attention and so while travelling with a Leo, you will constantly be asked to click pictures. Whether it is a stay at an underwater hotel or going paragliding in Manali, Leos are always up for it.

Travel tip: Budget Travellers should never pick Leos as travelling partners because glam life does not come cheap and Leos are all for spending lavishly when it comes to having a good time.

Which places would Leos love: Singapore, New York, Los Angeles, Switzerland

 

  1. Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Virgos travel for a purpose. Most of their travels include business trips rather than leisure holidays. Out of all other Zodiac signs, they like travelling the least. But they do travel for work or to settle their curiosity. Virgos are perfectionists and so they have everything meticulously planned and organised. They take note of all the places they have visited so they can strike them off the checklist. They also have some pre-travel ideas of what their holiday should contain and so they try to make it possible.

As introverts, Virgos prefer travelling solo instead of with a companion. They are always prepared for their travel whether it is to a museum or off to a forest. Since they are analytical in nature, they decide their travel destination very carefully and analyse every aspect of their travel. Their trips are mostly scheduled and well-thought-out. With a Virgo, you can be sure that all the bookings will be confirmed and well in time.

Travel Tip: Do try going with the flow every once in a while and explore a new place just for getting a new experience.

Which places would Virgos like? Morocco, Tokyo, Kolkata, Sikkim, Amsterdam.

 

  1. Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Libras are hopeless romantics at heart and want their travel expeditions to be dreamlike. They have a creative persona and want to infuse that creativity in their travels as well. They wish for a vacation that is stylish yet romantic. They would love to be surprised by a sudden trip to their dream destination. Walking through vineyards or tea garden, flying in a hot-air balloon, these are some of the activities that Libras would like. They always worry about their travelling companion and whether they are having fun or not. Libras would always keep shopping on their itinerary and also small luxuries like visiting a chic café or going to a museum. Libras are very sociable and can easily charm others. They are so easy-going that everyone around them feels relaxed. They like having fun but also want everyone else to have just as much fun. Known for being a balanced sign, they plan a trip to include everybody’s interests.

What places would Libras like: Maldives, Mexico, Alleppey, Gulmarg, Australia

Travel tip: Do buy souvenirs for your friends and family in a nice gift shop.

 

  1. Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Scorpions are passionate about travelling and exploring new things. They do not like mainstream tourist places where there are lots of crowds but instead want to be in an unexplored place, somewhere offbeat, undisturbed by others. They like being on their own and having the liberty to plan the trip according to their whims and wishes. So Scorpions would be found going on solo travels so they don’t have to compromise on their Me-time. Scorpions are very compassionate to the locals and give due respect to their traditions and rituals. As for being social, depending on their mood, either Scorpions would be complete loners and enjoy the trip by themselves or they would befriend everyone. They enjoy getting familiarised with new places and new people. If the locals tell them of a place that is off the radar, they will go out of their way to see it. They get very focused and stubborn once they have something on their mind. Travelling with a Scorpio is a life-changing experience.

Travel Tip: Go on a group tour and explore popular places as well.

Which places would Scorpio love to travel to: Jaisalmer, Bhutan, Spain, Spiti, Kutch, Prague

 

  1. Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Sagittarius are independent travellers mostly found on solo trips with a quest to explore the world. They like unconventional spots and exotic locations where they can stay for a long time. Sagittarius is not fond of sight-seeing much because they prefer having insight into the place by staying and enjoying the culture of the place. They are fun-loving travellers who wander solo and travel on a budget but still end up befriending many people.

They are the ones who truly signify what wanderlust is with their great adaptability to situations and positive outlook about everything. They can be a bit reckless but there is never a dull moment travelling with them. They are looking for a deeper meaning of all the destinations that they visit and they will continue hopping to the next adventure till they find it.

Travel Tip: Have a daily allowance system and set-up a separate fund for impulse buys.

 

What Places would Sagittarius love: Ladakh, Turkey, Myanmar, Kasol, Manali, Iceland

 

  1. Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Capricorns are ambitious by nature and it reflects in their travelling habits as well. They like travelling to places which have a rich history of monarchs, rulers and dictators. They enjoy historic forts, palaces and majestic monuments. They have a fascination for high buildings and tall structures. They love to travel in style and are cautious about having authentic experiences. Capricorns prefer quality over quantity when it comes to travel and would like a few incredible trips than having lots of mediocre tours. They like travelling with their friends so they can enjoy the moment with someone else. You can find Capricorns scaling mountains, going trekking or spending time in royal cities with hotels than reflect the same royalty.

 

Travel tip: Research about authentic cuisines of the place before you visit and find a restaurant fitting to your taste.

 

Which places would Capricorns adore: Agra, Lucknow, Jodhpur, Vienna, London, Hampi

 

That’s all the zodiac signs with their eccentric traits describing how they love to travel. One thing they all have in common is the love for travelling and seeing the world. Meeting new people might be easier for some and very difficult task for others, but it always does one good to take a leap and try out something new. Choose your travelling partner wisely and do try out something out of your comfort zone. Who knows? It might turn out to be a lot of fun!

Categories
Travel Tips Travel Trends

Open letter to hotels to promote eco-tourism

As travel bloggers, we stay at so many hotels and resorts. Staying in different places, even in the kind of environment which is often not suitable to have proper accommodation, we realize the importance of leaving a green footprint. But being a commercial hotel and remaining eco-friendly seems like a tough task.

We have visited so many mountains that get dirtied by the plastic and wrappers travelers leave behind. Recently, the tourism in Bhaderwah in Jammu and Kashmir multiplied ten-fold but the damage it caused to the environment was irreparable. Yes, all travelers need to understand the importance of being eco-friendly but before they do that, the accommodation they are staying at must ensure that they instill that thought in the traveler’s mind. So, here is an open letter to all hotels to promote eco-tourism and sustainability.

Dear Hotel-owners,

Your short-term benefits might be bad for business in the long-term. It might feel easier for you to pay electricity bills even though it takes a cut out of your profit, but you should know that investing in solar panels is a one-time investment. In the long run, it is much cheaper and much more sustainable. Similarly, using plastic straws may seem like you are offering comfort to your guests but those straws harm the aquatic animals and do not decompose, deteriorating the earth and marine life which are causes of tourism in many places.

Why would anyone wish to visit a place that wasn’t naturally beautiful? What keeps a place naturally beautiful is the care people of the place have for its environment. You must have read about Leh and how much problems they are having because of tourism. Tourism might boost the economy of a place but if there is no eco-tourism, the tourism potential of a place will be completely exploited and it will be left worthless after a few years.

Why shouldn’t you serve water in jugs instead of plastic bottles? An even better option is metal bottles or glass bottles. If your guests find it awkward at first, it is your job to convince them that what you are doing is for their benefit and the benefit of the environment. Travelers have a soft spot for nature and will always appreciate steps like that. But wouldn’t it cost a lot to make such changes in the hospitality industry?

The truth is, it doesn’t cost as much as one expects and moreover, it works in favor of “brand-building”. One can bring small changes daily. Have different dustbins for bio-degradable and non-biodegradable waste and a proper method of waste disposal. Give your guests a pouch for putting wrappers and trash in so they do not litter in places they are visiting. Adopt water-conservation methods by outsourcing laundry services and creating awareness for water conservation. You can also use photocell faucets for minimizing the water use. Also, buy recycles toilet paper and local-made furniture. If the tourist destinations are not too far away, have a bicycle service available for your guests. Moreover, one important thing you must do is not to use chemical-based cleaning products.

It must seem like a lot but do these little things and showcase it to the world. Eco-tourism is rapidly growing and many hotel chains are jumping the bandwagon. Yet, things will not change with just a few hotels deciding to go eco-friendly. Everyone must contribute their bit. It is not just about the environment either, it also forms part of the Corporate Social Responsibility. The next time someone visits your hotel, they should get to see how much you care for the place you are doing business in.

Yours truly,

GhoomophiroSisters

Categories
South India Travel Tips

5 things you should shop in Mysore

“Shopoalcohalism is not dangerous to your health. It won’t kill you. Your bank balances may not like it but that is totally a different thing.” That should be humanity’s motto of life – well, it is our motto of living at least and, for shopaholics like us weekend markets of Mysore are little paradises.

The reputation of Mysore‘s markets for its famous silk sarees, rosewood and sandalwood products, rock sculpture souvenirs, coffee powder, etc – not to mentions its delicious cuisine which has got centuries of refinement had reached us long before we had set foot in them.

And there are really several special products that you can buy in this city that once formed the empire of the great ruler Tipu Sultan but today we limit ourselves to 5 things you should shop in Mysore.

1. Mysore Pak

over 70 years ago, the king of Mysore called for a cook reputed locally for his skills during the time to create a new, original sweet that would bear the name of the city (an idea that can only occur to a ruler of the sweet loving country like India).

The cook prepared a special sugar syrup called ‘paka’ and its cooks were referred to as ‘Nalapaka’. Mysore Pak is a living example to what a bit of imagination and creativity can do for the gratification of our taste buds and thus a natural favorite to be first in our list of 5 things you should shop in Mysore.

This special delicacy has as its main ingredients flour, sugar, and butter and is easily available in a number of places – Sayyaji Rao Road and Guru Sweet Mart. There are a number of variants among which we especially loved and thus lovingly recommend variations offered by  Annex Bombay Tiffanys, Indra Sweets, and Mahalaxmi.

 

2. Mysore Silk Sarees

Next in our list of 5 things you should shop in Mysore is something that is fast catching eye of fashion industry experts and middle-class women alike – Mysore Silk Sarees.

While some claim Mysore’s connection to silk goes as far as its most legendary ruler Tipu Sultan, there is no clear evidence produce to fortify such claims. What one does know is that the Mysore royalty has acted very consciously to encourage the silk industry in the twentieth century in Mysore and its surrounding areas. The industry had a great advantage in that the region is ideal for the growth of mulberry, the main feeding ingredient used by silkworms. The industry thus shows the city’s genius not in the textile industry but also in the incredible art of rearing silkworms.

No city in India seems capable of making its reputation on the back of its garment industry unless it also produces iconic sarees too. And Mysore is no exception. Its Silk sarees are tremendously popular both in surrounding areas and in the whole of the country because of their use of a rather light and smooth variety of silk which retains a very distinctive sheen even after multiple washes. A golden Zari border beautifies these gracefully beautiful silk sarees. To make sure they are original, you must keep in mind to check for an embroidered number on one edge.

We brought our own Mysore Silk Sarees in the KSIC Mysore Silk showroom which stood up to its reputation for being the best place to buy them and thus we highly recommend it though there are several other showrooms in the center of town.

3. Sandalwood Products

We leave you to choose your favorite option from among a number of Sandalwood products as the third in the list of 5 things you should shop in Mysore. A sandalwood oil factory was established here as far back as in 1917 by King of Mysore, Krishnaraja Wodeyar and Diwan Sir M. Visvesvaraya just two kilometers from the royal palace. to benefit from the rich sandalwood forests of the region and ever since it has grown to be an important hotspot for products using sandalwood.

Pure sandalwood oil is a rare thing even here since the forest department very aptly regulates cutting of trees in order to preserve forests from complete destruction. Still, you can but a number of oils, soaps, perfumes, etc infused with beautiful sandalwood fragrance.

The factory itself is the best place to buy these products. We also used the opportunity to see the sandalwood harvested first hand and the extraction of tremendously useful sandalwood oil from it in the factory. You can also buy the products from shops in Gandhi square and Devaraja Market.

Timings: The factory can be visited from 9:30 AM t0 11:00 AM and 14:00 PM to 16:00 PM on all days except Sundays.

4. Mysore painting

There are a number of artifacts to be found in Mysore – wooden and stone sculptures the size of toys that can be bought as souvenirs, rosewood, etc, there are only two slots we can avail them. The paintings come from a very ancient form and might trace its origin to the famous carvings of Ajanta and Ellora. The paintings got a royal boost during the royal patronage it enjoyed in times of Vijayanagara empire. During 15th and 16th century. They mostly depict gods, goddesses, and scenes from the famous mythological tales of Hinduism. They use delicate drawing and pleasant colors and their overall effect is that of simplicity because of a lack of too fine details. Their distinction lies in their use is the gesso work, which is a kind of embossing done by using white lead and glue overlaid with gold foil. Its delicate and low-relief form sets it apart from Tanjore style which used bold embossing as well as the use of glitzy precious stones absent in Mysore painting. Ganjifa cards are also available with these patterns. We brought Mysore paintings from the Mysore Palace.

5. Mysore betel leaves

Mysore’s paan – a preparation that is packed its famous betel leaves folded in spirals, have a proverbial reputation and are thus a natural favorite to make it to our list of 5 things you should shop in Mysore. In the simplest variety, the leaves are smeared with some slaked lime (Sunna or chunnam) and then rolled with a filling of chopped betel nuts. Devaraja Market, in particular, is frequented by Paan lovers lusting after its famous for its unique color and incredible taste. The paan is often eaten after meals as sweet dishes but like sweet dishes need not be kept limited to that.

The betel leaves have other traditional uses too among locals. They are often used as an offering to guests and can be offered as gifts to guests at home as well as wedding as parting gifts when they are leaving.

Conclusion

This list of things to buy in Mysore is by no means an exclusive list. A number of items are skipped over here – wooden and stone sculptures the size of toys that can bought as souvenirs, rosewood artifacts, Coffee powder from nearby Coorg district famous for its coffee plantations, agarbatti (Mysore is one of the main causes behind Karnataka being dubbed as ‘agarbatti capital of India’), Mysore Jasmine, Channapatna toys etc to name a few.

Categories
Foodie Travel Tips

Unforgettable Cafes and Restaurants in Shimla

Other than being a place full of amazing visuals and sights, Shimla is also known to cater the tourists quite well. Say thanks in part to the amazing locales here who left no stone unturned in making the tourists feel like home. However, a place as beautiful as Shimla, one would not really expect it to be a foodie’s paradise. But as it happens to be the case, there are many places in Shimla that cater to the foodies quite well. So, here we are, listing the places to go whenever you are tired from a day of sightseeing.

Embassy – This happens to be one of the oldest coffee shops in the entire hill station and also the most popular one at that. Other than serving some delicious cakes, sweets, and pastries, this place is known more widely for the amazing coffee that they make. In the spine-chilling cold weather outside, nothing seems more soothing than a hot cup of black coffee along with a delicious chocolate cake right? The place is being run by a couple and is located on the Mall road. The embassy is located on the famous Mall Road, Shimla.

Baljees Fascination – This is one of the few cafes cum restaurants located on the famous Mall Road, Shimla that serves some of the most delicious Indian snacks along with coffee and other beverages. As you step inside the place, located in the middle bazaar, you are met with a very delicious aroma of the Indian snacks such as paneer pakoras, samosa, among other things. Most tourists being the north Indians, this place also serves as a great place to chill and hang out. With the slow Hindi music playing in the background, it doesn’t get any better than that. The specialty of the place is hot and deliciously served Gulab Jamuns. Is your mouth watering right now?

Wake and Bake Cafe- Shimla wasn’t known for having good restaurants where you could taste the best international cuisines. But that was the case only until two years ago. Now there is Wake and Bake Cafe, which specializes in the Indian and the international cuisines alike. This can be touted as Shimla’s reply to the high-end restaurants located in Dharamkot and Old Manali. The food here is excellent and the prices are surprisingly low as well. Located on the Mall road right opposite to the municipal office, this one is a must-visit the place.

Dimsum- Getting bored of all the sightseeing and craving for some Chinese food eh? Don’t worry; we have got just the right place which is located somewhere on the mall road. However, the service is a bit slow over here, but the blame goes to the heavy crowd in here thanks to the amazing food and popularity of the place. Soups, curries, and noodles are the specialties here and the mouth-watering taste will make you come back here again and again.

Cafe Sol- The foodies and the lovers of baked food have this place listed as one their favorite in the hill station. Cafe Sol is located inside the hotel Combermere and the place is open for the visitors as well. The great interiors are the highlights here, and the great menu, of course, full of Mexican food items and pizzas.

Well, there you have one more reason to visit the beautiful hill station. The food here is excellent. And there are many more places other than we have mentioned that caters to the tourists and give them something other than the natural beauty to remember.

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Beaches Travel Tips Travel Trends

Safety Travel for Solo Women Travel in Goa

Goa has a laid back culture which attracts both international tourists as well as the nation’s youth – thus making it tourist capital of India.  Still, it presents some challenges to solo familiar travelers. For one thing, there are drug and excessive drinking issues. For the second, there is news of increasing frequency of crimes against women. There are also some reported cases of burglary.

Goa is worth all those risks especially since most risks can be put off if you take measures against them and the risks mentioned above are no more prevalent than any other major international tourist destination.

We have already shared some tips that can come handy for a female solo traveler in general. Today Ghoomophiro brings you some safety tips for solo female travelers in Goa in particular:

Smile, be nice but also be assertive

While we must never forget to smile and be nice to those we talk; we must also be assertive about our rights. A foreknowledge of our rights help. Do not be taken by the aggressiveness of others who might try to intimate you.

 Airport and taxis

Goa’s airport is as safe as you might expect an airport to be. Taxi services are readily available at the airport and can be considered fairly safe. That said, we recommend using the Uber app to order a taxi. The charges for such taxis are fixed and they have taken safety precautions of their own. Google has recently launched a new service which will warm you if your driver was to get off his route.

Beaches and Beach Huts

Goa’s beaches are it’s the biggest attraction.  As far as female safety go, the beaches are the safest one can find in India. Women can roam around in two-piece without getting stares or get far fewer stares than elsewhere. There might though be robbery issues. We recommend putting your belongings in custody of some friend you made at the place. Avoid carrying too many valuables to the beach.

Beach Huts are one of the biggest attractions of the beaches of Goa. These pretty houses are made of a variety of materials including bamboo or banana leaves, wood or concrete. However, there might be chances of theft if safety measures are not taken. If you are a solo female traveler, we highly recommend avoiding huts made entirely of bamboo or banana leaves. We recommend sticking to ones that are made of harder material like wood or concrete and that can be locked properly. We recommend traveling lightly – such facilities as ATMs are readily available in Goa.

Night Life

While Goa has the best of night Life you can find anywhere in India, this also means lots of drinking and drugs. We recommend making friends at your hotel or guest house and enjoy your nightlife with them. Do not accept drinks except those served by the stuff at the club – as people are in habit of putting stuff into drinks. Avoid arguing with drunken men as they tend to grow aggressively. Don’t get into a taxi if you find that the driver is drunk.

Rentable scooters

Rentable scooters are the best way to roam around in Goa. They cost about 300 bucks for a day and if you rent them for multiple days 150 bucks a day. However, if you are a solo woman traveler or foreigner or both, you might be considered an easy target and the renters might try to charge you more.

Make sure to use helmets or you are liable to be penalized by local police.

Mobile phones

Mobile phones are the biggest weapons in the hands of solo female travelers. We recommend keeping them sharpened, metaphorically speaking.

We recommend getting your hands on a local sim and use it. The local telecom services offer cheap plans giving free unlimited local calls and good amounts of daily data quota. Use the internet to make your international calls.

Keep apps like Google Maps and Uber Service on your mobile. Use mobile banking to do your transactions as far as possible.

Some useful telephone numbers are given below:

100 police

102 Ambulance

1091 Women Crisis Response

1078 Coast Guard Control Room

1033 Emergency Relief Center on National Highway

Make sure your mobile devices are always charged. You can carry power banks for additional support.

Don’t accept invitations to unknown places

Don’t accept invitations to beach parties and clubs from unknown people if you are not too sure.

Conclusion

There have been rumors declaring Goa unsafe for women after crimes against women in Goa have recently hit the news lines, but we find Goa as safe a place as an international tourist destination with a laid-back lifestyle. The state has dedicated government bodies trying to make it even safer. With a bit of caution, Goa can be safely enjoyed.  We hope these safety tips will help you gain confidence and consider traveling alone to Goa. J

Categories
Beaches North-West India Travel Tips

Grandmother’s Hole Beach – one of Goa’s hidden gems

Goa’s pristine beaches are tremendously popular all over the world but this also means that are overly crowded, commercialized, chaotic and congested as is often the case with mainstream beaches of India.

If crowds get on your nerves, you might find the pleasure you drive from Goa’s enchanting beauty spoiled by these issues. But don’t worry, Ghoomophiro brings you an alternative which will get you best of both worlds.  And that place is Grandmother’s Hole Beach.

How to reach Grandmother’s Hole Beach?

A GPS powered app such as Google Maps will be needed to reach this hidden gem of Goa as you move from airport area toward Baina. About 500 meters from the beach, your path turns into a sort of maze of minor roads as if the place is being guarded by nature from crowds. But don’t worry all roads lead to Rome… Well, Grandmother’s Hole. You might need to ask people for directions and there is a petroleum refinery in the sea, seeing which will prove you are on the right track but eventually you will end up at the beach. The beach is about 220 steps down a cliff – not a very easy hike for old people.

The beach

The beach is surrounded by a semi-urban area. There is parking available on top of the cliff. On steps down the cliff, you will see a fort wall through which you must pass to reach the beach. It is the ‘hole’, after which the beach is named.

It is a narrow Sandy which that Haas jagged rocks. It is beautiful in the way the places deserted by humans to nature’s care can often be. The tranquil beauty though is only to be seen.

There are good reasons it is deserted. There are floating in seawater making swimming a risk business and there are no coastal guards.

Moreover, it is lacking in pleasures that a commercial beach would offer – no carts to buy your food from,  no beach beds. You must bring your own mats in order to picnic here.

Besides tranquil picnics, you can enjoy clicking pictures here of sea showing its majesty in brilliant tides and screeching birds that fly overhead without worrying about tourists obstructing the view.

Some tips

  1. It might be better for those who have trouble with hikes to avoid this beach or to just enjoy it from above the cliff which offers brilliant views.
  2. Keep the beach clean. Do not litter. There are very few clean beaches left in Goa as it is.
  3. If beach games and swimming is your thing, Grandmother’s Hole Beach might not be for you.
  4. You must carry your own mat, some food, and beach attire as these might not be easily acquired here.

Conclusion

Grandmother’s Hole Beach is a hidden gem of Goa, we almost feel guilty in sharing it’s secret. We hope you will appreciate the sacrifice. 🙂

Categories
Staycation Travel Tips Travel Trends

5 key Yoga Ashrams in India

Yoga is an integral part of Indian culture that has been practiced since centuries to free the mind, body, and soul. With its centers all over the country, it now reflects its prominent presence in the West as well. Traveling in India to delve deeper into the realms Yoga and its rich culture can be one of the most liberating experiences ever. There are plenty of Yoga Centres in India that offer a combination of in-depth classes and flexible drop-in courses. They are a perfect medium to find solace. As there are a huge number of Yoga Centres and each has different approaches and results, it’s important to know which is the best suited for you. Therefore, a listing of key Yoga Centres with their offerings can help you have a better idea about what they offer.

Parmath Niketan: Located in Rishikesh, with a stunning setting of scenic beauty covering mountains and serene lakes, this is a great spiritual place for Yoga. The ashram comprises 1000 rooms on its eight acres campus. It has an extensive program of Beginner and Advanced Yoga, Vedic Heritage, Spirituality and Teacher-oriented courses. The duration of the courses differs from two weeks to three months. The students are also provided with inexpensive accommodations during their stay. A popular attraction to the tourists is the International Yoga Festival held every year in the month of March. The ashram also performs the holy Ganga Aarti every evening and sacred wedding ceremonies. This center is open to everyone, including tourists from abroad.

Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute: If you are looking for a  full-on short-term and serious Yoga classes, then this is for you. Located in Pune, this renowned Institute attracts serious students of yoga from all over the world. It conducts regular classes in Iyengar Yoga (a form of Hatha Yoga which focuses on postures) for all levels. Special classes are also held for women, children, and those with medical problems. Not only that, the students need to have some substantial prior experience in practicing Iyengar Yoga for in-depth training. The courses are held for a month and you can attend 5-6 classes per week at ease.

Ashtanga Institute: This spiritual Gurukul is located in Mysore and run by descendants of the revered guru Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois, who taught yoga there from the 1930s up until his death in 2009. The Ashtanga Institute offers ongoing intensive ​ashtanga yoga classes throughout the year. The classes are for serious students only and every batch continues for six months. It’s necessary to apply at least two months in advance. Accommodation isn’t provided but there’s plenty to be found close by.

The Yoga Centre, Mumbai: This is one of the oldest Yoga Centres of the world. This coastal Gurukul was founded in 1918 by Shri Yogendraji, a disciple of Shri Paramhamsa Madhavadasji (a renowned yoga master from Bengal). The main motive of this Yoga Centre is to alleviate the health problems of people. As a result, its therapeutic camps are quite famous in the city. This Centre offers a wide range of excellent Yoga Courses, workshops, and camps. There are also special programs for women and children. They aim to help students overcome specific ailments including heart and respiratory problems, hypertension, diabetes, orthopedic conditions, and stress-related issues. Their courses range from 2 to 21 days. A major benefit is that regular classes are also held here.

The Bihar School of Yoga Ashram: Located in Bihar, this Ashram was founded in 1964 by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, a student of Swami Sivananda Saraswati (one of the greatest yoga masters of the 20th century). This Yoga Centre mainly focuses on a full yogic lifestyle. Satyananda Yoga incorporates traditional postures, breathing, and meditation. Normally an educational institution focuses solely on academic goals, whereas a yoga institute in this ashram environment combines both intellectual and experiential learning, aiming towards the holistic growth of the student. Emphasis is laid on both the mental and spiritual development of the student. Each year, a four-month residential course from October to January is held on Yogic Studies.

Categories
Foodie Rejoice Travel Tips

Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh

Besides an exotic variety of art, forts, palaces, Hindu temples, Jain temples, gurudwaras, wildlife, and natural vegetation, Madhya Pradesh is home to the greatest variety of mouth-watering sweets you can imagine showing why we think India is a country born with a sweet tooth. Here we bring you a list of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh:

1. Mawa-Bati

Forget worrying about diabetes, you only live one time – and Gulab Jamuns, the king of all sweets, has received an upgrade in Madhya Pradesh in form Mawa Bati, the first item in our list of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh. If the sweet syrup was not enough, this one is all filled with dry fruits and cardamom powder.

2. Poha Jalebi

Poha Jalebi is the signature breakfast dish of the city of Indore and is thus one of the natural members of our list of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh. This sin of a delicious dish is born of a marriage of two unlikely partners – Poha and jalebi, one from Maharashtra and the other of Arabic origins. It is light, mild, not to say sinfully delicious and served with spicy crunchy missal.

2. Khoprapak or coconut Barfi

Next, in our list of 10 Sweets, you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh is Khoprapak. Also known as a Coconut Barfi,  it is a traditional sweet dish of Madhya Pradesh made by whipping out of coconut and Milk Solids.

3. Shrikhand – especially along with Hapus Icecream

The third in our list 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh is Shrikhand This mouth-watering yogurt food item was invented 2400 years ago and is one of the most delicious food items you will find there. It forms a favorite for a desert. A saffron flavored shrikhand with pistachio and cashews partners each other well. We very highly recommend Agarwal Ice Cream shop at Indore Night Sarafa Food market which has been serving it for over 55 years.

4. Petha Paan:

The fourth in our list of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh is Petha paan. it is is a very unique kind of paan made of cashew, almond, gulkand (rose jam), etc. These ingredients are encased in a thin layer of green petha. The Petha is held together with clove and makes a perfect end to your food marathon. We recommend trying Petha Paan at Anna Ka Paan shop at Indore Night Sarafa Food market.

5. Jaleba:

Have you had fantasies for a really big Jalebi? Jaleba, a specialty of Madhya Pradesh, especially of its Indore Night Sarafa Food market is just the thing for you. Jaleba is a king size jalebi fried in desi ghee. It is large and crisp but soft within and is sugar syrup sweet thus making it fifth in our list of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh.

6. Malpua

Malpua, the sixth item in our menu of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh, is the deliciously Indian version of pancakes, It is a chewy snack widely popular in the Central parts of India because of its Crispy Edges and Soft, fluffy insides which partner well with a number of its like Rabri, Cream, and Fresh Fruits. It is made of flour, khoya (milk solids), semolina, etc. It is deep-fried and then dunked in sugar syrup.

7. Khoya – Jalebi

The very name of the seventh dish in our list of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh should be enough to get your saliva glands going. Khoya Jalebi can be prepared in a number of ways of which two are capable of killing you by deliciousness – Malwa-Nimar Platter and BadkulMishthaan at BadaPhuvaara.

8. Imarti

Eight in our list of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh is Imarti. This saffron flower dish is so beautiful – that you feel a dilemma as to whether to eat or just go on staring at it. It is made by deep frying a floor preparation.

9. Makhanvada

Makhanvada is hardened on the outside and spongy soft on the inside, flattened balls made out of Flour, Ghee and Yogurt making them an irresistible member of our list of 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh. A single bite is enough to fill your mouth with the taste of heavens.

10. Til-Gajak

Last, in our list of 10 Sweets, you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh – a winter-time favorite of the state. This traditional dish is made of sesame seeds and jaggery that are seeped into every layer. Gwalior and Morena are the most popular experts of Til-Gajak.

And Just because you just can’t have too much of sweetness in life

A bonus sweet: Kalakand

Our bonus dish in our list of  Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh is Kalakand, which is made by stirring out of sweetened Milk and Cottage Cheese, this incredible sweet will give an orgasm to your tongue – garnished as it is with Dry Fruits.

Conclusion

Calories might come and go, but a chance to enjoy such heavenly sweetness comes only on a few occasion. And so do not let your body weight worries stop you from enjoying the 10 Sweets you should eat while in Madhya Pradesh next time you are there. That is all from us, friend. Eat sweet, live sweet. 

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