Asia

Where to Stay in Singapore – Singapore is a thriving tourist place which is full of amazing surprises. Singapore is home to modern architectures, tranquil temples, bustling markets, bars and restaurants, and a lot more.

With so many things to explore, it is difficult and tricky to find out a perfect location to stay when on a Singapore tour package.

Every tourist place has a unique culture and personality that offer a different insight into the city.

As a commercial hub and one of the popular tourist destinations, you can find a number of accommodation options in Singapore that suit your budget.

Whether you’re in search of a serene place for relaxation, a cultural experience, or want to stay between the city bright lights, you may find multiple options to stay to relax and unwind your mind.

With the availability of an array of options, It is sometimes not that easy to choose a hotel to stay in Singapore.

To make your search easy, this blog covers an ultimate guide to help you decide which area is perfect to stay for easy access to nearby tourist sites.

Take a look.

Where to Stay in Singapore

Sentosa – For a Beachy Bliss

If you like to have a sunbath on a sandy beach, stay at Sentosa.

This little island is located on Singapore’s southern coast.

It is home to beach clubs, hotels, and beautiful seaside resorts.

If you are on a family trip including your little ones, you will find an array of sports and adventures to keep them busy.

You will also find a number of restaurants, bars, and spa centers to relax and unwind your mind and soul and to spend quality time with your loved ones.

If you are looking to stay at Sentosa, you must consider Siloso Beach Resort Sentosa.

Located along the Siloso Beach, it is a mesmerizing destination to stay.

The resort is located only at a 5 minutes walking distance from the Sentosa Luge and the popular Wave house where you can enjoy various water sports.

Other renowned hotels to stay in Sentosa include:

• Capella Singapore
• Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa
• W Singapore – Sentosa Cove

Marina Bay – For City Bright Lights

With many of Singapore’s iconic landmarks – Marina Bay, the peaceful body of water,  is the best place to stay if you are interested to indulge yourself the bright lights of The Lion City.

Packed with rooftop bars, a plenty of restaurants, luxurious hotels, it is an ideal place to experience a different and exciting side of Singapore.

The Marina Bay Sands has many attractions to fill your Singapore tour full of surprises.

By staying at the Marina Bay, you can easily explore, the Gardens by the Bay, the famous Merlion statue, and the National Science Museum.

The waterfront area is home to many five-star hotels, offering worthy views.

When you follow the waterways back to Boat Quay or Clarke Quay you will surely find a more diverse range of properties.

The district Marina Bay in Singapore is also meant for people who are more interested in exploring the city nightlife.

Top-rated hotels to stay in Marina Bay:

• The Ritz-Carlton,
• Millenia Singapore,
• Pan Pacific Singapore
• Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore
• The Fullerton Hotel

Chinatown – For Traditional Experience

Chinatown is usually considered as the trendiest area to stay in Singapore.

It’s located next to the Downtown area and you can easily find a variety of accommodation options, from hostels to 5-star luxury.

It is the place where Singapore’s first boutique hotel was built and the area still has many independent properties.

If you are searching for a budget Singapore tour package, you can find many backpacker hostels in Chinatown.

The area is lined with Chinese markets, stores, temples, and great places to eat for travels who are on a budget.

Chinatown is an appropriate place to relax as it is surrounded by atmospheric temples, heritage shop houses, and delicious food stalls.

Home to many restaurant and bars, it is a superb place for travelers who love to taste multi-cuisine food.

If you are on Singapore tour packages from Ahmedabad, Mumbai or anywhere across India to experience the blend of modern and traditional Singapore, it is an iconic place to explore.

During your visit to Chinatown, indulge yourself in the iconic enclave and narrow passageways to have a relaxing travel experience ahead.

Some of the popular Singapore hotels to stay:

• The Club Singapore
• Scarlet Singapore
• Naumi Liora

Orchard – For Shopping

Singapore is also popular for its popular and glamorous malls packed with stores of various international brands.

Many travelers, including first-time travelers to Singapore, choose to stay on the Orchard road as it is considered as the premier shopping street of the city.

The orchard road is located at a distance of 2 km from the shopping heaven where you can buy anything you would like to buy at affordable prices.

The place is a magnet for tourists land Singapore to explore the latest fashion trends.

You may also find a wide spectrum of hotels including some of the most lavish options in the city.

Once you are done shopping, explore the green spaces at both the ends of the road.

At one end, you’ll find Singapore’s UNESCO World heritage site – the Botanic Gardens and on the opposite end, you’ll find Fort Canning Park.

Some of the popular places to stay here include:

• Grand Hyatt Singapore
• Marriott Singapore Tang Plaza
• Hotel Jen Orchardgateway
• Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre
• Shangri-La Singapore
• Regis Singapore

Singapore

Singapore is not only a large city, it comprises a multi-racial society which is reflected in its many distinct and colorful neighborhoods.

Finding a location, when finalizing your Singapore tour package, plays a major role in defining your whole experience.

Wherever you are planning a trip to relax your mind and soul, it’s easy to explore the city by following a perfect Singapore tour package itinerary.

Browse for a reputable International tour operator offering wallet-friendly Singapore tour packages from Ahmedabad, Mumbai and anywhere across India.

Before putting your money down, thoroughly read the terms and conditions and complete itinerary to get a great deal.

Gujarat is a charmingly whimsical land which majestically showcases a colorful mosaic of age old religion, vibrant culture and glorious heritage.

Being the westernmost point in India Gujarat is one every travel buff’s bucket list.

From being home to the holy all India char Dham Yatra temple of Dwarkadheesh to one of the largest gleaming white salt desert in the world of the Great Rann of Kutch Gujarat is a treasure trove for every visitor.

Apart from these highly proclaimed sights, Gujarat India is also the only abode for Asiatic lions at the Gir Forest National park whose wildlife and biodiversity is incomparable.

Tourist Attractions in Gujarat

If you are planning to travel to Gujarat then your trip will remain incomplete without visiting these sites of interest:

Rani ki Vav (Patan)

Sitting majestically on the banks of River Saraswati Rani ki Vav or the Queen’s Stepwell, is an 11^th century creation.

Initially built during the 3^rd millennium BC this step well has been continuously renovated and rebuilt over a vast period of time until it was finally included in the UNESCO world heritage site.

This structure is the perfect representation of the unique and distinct craftsmanship along with some complex design and architectural styles complete with over 500 carved sculptures of gods and goddesses.

There is no empty space on the walls or pillars of the step well every inch is adorned with intricately detailed work of traditional artistry.

Rani ki Vav, Patan Travel Tip

During the months of December and January, Rani ki Vav festival takes place where visitors have the option of enjoying a cultural program complete with traditional cuisines and street shopping.

Rani ki Vav, Patan Hours of Operation: 8 am to 6 pm

Best Time to Visit Rani ki Vav, Patan

October – March

Gir Forest National Park (Junagadh)

Located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, this national park is the only home for Asiatic lions in the world.

The dry deciduous covered forest also serves as the home for numerous fauna species and more than 300 avian species.

A contrasting dash of color from the silk tress brings some vibrancy to the area.

A jeep safari to Gir national park will take you on a trail across a brown green dotted forest which is studded with numerous glimmering water reservoirs which works as a watering hole for the resident animals.

This is a highly protected national park where hunting is illegal providing a safe haven for the flora and fauna here.

Gir Forest National Park Travel Tip

Be sure to strictly follow the National park rules in order to witness the most amounts of animals and not disturb them in their natural habitat.

Gir Forest National Park Hours of Operation: 6 am to 5 pm

Best Time to Visit Gir Forest National Park:

November – January (remains closed between the dates of 16^th June to 15^th October)

Dwarkadheesh Mandir (Dwarka)

This is one of the four temples associated with the holy all India char dham yatra and it needs no introduction.

Rebuilt and enlarged during the 15^th and 16^th century, as per archaeological findings the temple is said to be dated back to 2,200 – 2,000 years.

As far as the traditional story goes, it is believed that the original temple was built by Lord Krishna’s grandson, Vajranabha, on top of what is regarded as the Lord’s residence place.

This temple stands at a massive height of 5 storey’s and upon 72 strong and beautifully adorned 72 pillars.

Pilgrims, devotees and visitors will be able to witness some of the most tastefully created unique sculptures of dancers, musicians, elephants and other celestial beings.

Dwarkadhish Mandir Dwarka Temple Gujarat Travel Tip

Dwarkadheesh Mandir is easily accessible from various modes of transportation (local bus, private taxi) and is located at a distance of just 1.6 km from the main town of Dwarka.

Dwarkadhish Mandir Temple Gujarat Hours of Operation: 6 am to 1 pm / 5 pm to 9:30 pm

Best Time to Visit Dwarkadhish Mandir Temple Gujarat:

October – March

The Great Rann of Kutch (Thar Desert, Kutch)

Known for being one of the largest salt marsh in the world, this surreal gleaming white land is one of the prime destinations for travelers.

Panning along the western fringe of the state of Gujarat this land looks resembles a dream-like white wonderland.

Upon your visit to this whimsical place you will also be taken on a camel ride and visit to several nearby traditional villages like, Hodko, Mandvi and Nirona.

For three months in a year Kutch is also the destination for the famous Rann Utsav which showcases the rich culture and heritage of Gujarat in full vibrancy and vigor.

Great Rann of Kutch Travel Tip

Plan your trip coinciding with the famous Rann Utsav which is guaranteed to be a once in a lifetime experience.

Best Time to Visit Great Rann of Kutch:

November – February

Somnath Mandir Temple (Prabhas Patan near Veraval)

Located along the western coast of the Gujarati state, this temple is believed to be the very first among the sacred group of 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India.

The Shiv Linga present within the temple is believed to be a ‘Swayambhu’ (self-born). This temple is not only a prime pilgrimage destination but is also a must visit tourist spot for people on a tour of Gujarat or on a weekend getaway.

What better way to enlighten your soul and liven up your spirit than to visit this remarkable work of temple architecture.

You have the option to be a part of one of the costliest Aartis in India which takes place in the temple.

Somnath Mandir Temple Travel Tip

The road to this temple is well connected with a network of railway and roadways from all the main cities of Gujarat.

Somnath Mandir Temple Hours of Operation: 6 am to 9 pm (Aarti timings – 7 am; 12 noon; 7 pm)

Best Time to Visit Somnath Mandir Temple:

October – March

Sun Temple (Modhera)

Built during 1026 – 27 CE and dedicated to the solar deity Surya this holy temple is located on the banks of River Pushpavati.

No puja rituals or worship takes place currently within the temple building and the entire complex is protected as well as maintained by Archeological survey of India.

This Chalukya styled temple premise has three main components including, the main shrine, the outer assembly hall and a sacred reservoir all of which is decorated in intricate sculptures and beautiful idols.

One can witness the grand Modhera dance festival procession take place in the premises of this temple where the entire temple premise is adorned with colorful decorations.

Sun Temple Modhera Travel Tip

Make sure to plan your trip during the pleasant months in order to have the best experience of the temple.

Sun Temple Modhera Hours of Operation: 6 am to 6 pm

Best Time to Visit Sun Temple Modhera:

October – March

Dholavira (Kutch)

This archeological site is one of the five largest Harappan sites and also contains the ruins of the ancient Indus valley civilization.

This site is believed to be one of the grandest cities of its time and age which falls between 2900 BC and 1500 BC.

Excavations of 1989 threw light on this excavation site and unearthed some valuable seals, gold, silver, animal bones, terracotta items, and pottery and bronze vessels.

One of the most vital sites for history enthusiasts and travelers looking for an exciting trip to Gujarat, Dholavira is among one of the most visited sites where you can visit the ancient reservoirs, step well, sun dried buildings and so much more.

Dholavira Kutch Travel Tip

Located at a distance of 6 km from Ahmedabad which can be reached via road.

There is limited accommodation available in Dholavira so it is advised to stay in Ahmedabad or head on towards Bhuj for Great Rann of Kutch.

Best Time to Visit Dholavira Kutch:

November – March

Palitana Temples (Bhavnagar)

Located atop the Shatrunjaya Hills this place is also dubbed as the ‘city of temples’ since it is home to almost 2,700 wonderfully carved temples.

As per tradition, the first Jain Tirthankara, Adinath had paid a visit to this hill and one of his chief disciples Pundarika had attained his enlightenment here.

Upon your visit here you will be awe struck with the sheer magnificence of the place which consists of 108 large temples and 872 small ones.

In order to reach this 900 years old temple complex you are required to climb 3,800 steps leading up to the main temple entrance.

From a top you will also be able to witness the panoramic view of the Gulf of Cambay.

Palitana Temples Bhavnagar Travel tip

Be sure to start your journey upwards towards the temple premises early in the morning so that you get the most out of your visit without hurrying.

Palitana Temples Bhavnagar Hours of Operation: 6 am to 6 pm

Best time to visit Palitana Temples Bhavnagar:

October to February

Akshardham Temple (Gandhinagar)

Successfully established in the year 1992, and dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan of the Vaishnava tradition, this temple is one of the prime and the best example of magnificently striking temple architecture and design.

Panning over a massive area of 23 acres, the entire complex is not only meant for temple worship but also house numerous educational and entertainment facilities for the visitors and pilgrims.

The main shrine consists of a massive 7 feet tall idol of the presiding deity, Lord Swaminarayan along with the idols and images of his successors.

The entire temple is intricately adorned and decorated with designer carvings and sculptures which makes it one of the prime landmarks of the state.

Akshardham Temple Travel tip

Be sure to attend the sound and light show of the temple along with fun rides and games.

Akshardham Temple Hours of Operation: 9:30 am to 7:30 pm (remains closed every Monday)

Best time to visit Akshardham Temple:

October – March

Velavadar Blackbuck National Park (Bhavnagar)

If you want a taste of the Savannah wildlife then a visit to this national park will fulfill your dreams.

This place is situated in the Bhal region of India and is also the roosting ground for Blackbuck.

Along with being home to the famous blackbucks, wolves and lesser florican, it is also home for witnessing a wonderful range of colorful birds of every shape, size and colors.

A jeep safari of Velavadar blackbuck national park will definitely quench your wanderlust successfully.

The grassland ecosystem is a great place for a thriving wildlife and biodiversity.

Velavadar Blackbuck National Park Travel Tip

Be sure to follow all the rules of the national park during your jeep safari, like remaining quiet during the entire journey.

Velavadar Blackbuck National Park Hours of Operation: 10 am to 7 pm / 10 am to 4 pm (Saturday)

Best Time to Visit Velavadar Blackbuck National Park:

December – March (remains closed during monsoon)

Singapore Vacation Of Your Dreams – Singapore is a land of extravagance and beautiful culture.

It is the perfect place to experience everything in one trip.

We sat down and thought hard about exactly how we would spend our time in Singapore if time and money were unlimited.

Before you buy your plane ticket, read on for some ideas to add to your adventure.

Singapore Vacation Of Your Dreams

Immerse In Singapore Culture With Your Accommodations

You can find a number of hostels, hotels, and rental properties available for travelers.

To really get the most out of Singapore, we suggest reserving an AirBnB.

With an unlimited budget, one might assume we would pick a five-star hotel that has all the amenities you can imagine.

Really, the trip is meant to enjoy what Singapore has to offer and we would rather spend a lot of our time exploring it rather than being swayed by on-site spas, pools, golf courses, and restaurants.

An AirBnB means you get to meet someone local and find out about great places to go that maybe a concierge won’t tell you about.

Worried about a language barrier?

Don’t worry, most people in Singapore speak English! 

Enjoy The View From A Singapore Golf Course

Speaking of golf courses, we definitely recommend golfing to those who love to take the casual strolls between holes.

golfscape Singapore golf courses are well known and cater to the area well.

This is one sport you can work into your budget very easily and that will give you a break from the usual hustle and bustle.

You won’t even have to go far since many of the courses are just a block or so away from the downtown area, saving you some time getting there.

For a stress-free round, we suggest Sebawang Golf Course.

Situated in Mindai, the course was designed in 1968 by the Royal Marines, New Zealand Armed Forces, and the Singapore Armed Forces to help soldiers, and civilians, to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

If you prefer to be closer to a thriving and bustling city, then we highly recommend checking out the Serapong Course on the Southern Island.

This newer, and very challenging, course features a par of 72 and is one of the top five championship courses in all of Asia.

The reviews of this course indicate that the greens are fantastic to play and that you should be prepared for the challenge.

Explore And Enjoy Singapore

One thing about Singapore is that you can find some truly unique and fun things to do.

One of the spots that intrigue us most is the Haw Par Villa.

This is a theme park that shares the Buddhist version of Hell.

Just saying that sentence out loud sounds thrilling!

If you enjoy wildlife, we do suggest you check out the Wildlife Reserves Night Safari.

This is a zoo to witness nocturnal animals and nighttime habits of other animals.

You will see Asian elephants and various forms of large cats.

What is really exciting is observing the civets, pangolins, and giant flying squirrels.

Those squirrels can glide the length of five football fields! Just like any zoo, they also have shows to educate and entertain.

Shows change often but we have to admit that the fire-twirling and creature of the night shows are pretty tempting.

Aside from Buddhist theme parks and nighttime zoos, there is so much to do in Singapore.

You can spend an entire day shopping at couture boutiques, local shops, and hang out at the mall.

Museums are everywhere and are great opportunities to learn more about the culture and religions of the land.

Eating Is A Must

All travelers should be ready for the adventure that is eating the local fare.

Singapore, and other Asian cities, often have a hodgepodge of foods but you can certainly find some local dishes.

A few items we recommend checking out are:

Bak Kut Teh – meat bone tea/pork ribs soup

Wanton Mee – wanton noodle dish with pork. You can also find the spicy version that has chili mixed with the noodles

Fried Carrot Cake – definitely not what you think! Radish flour cake, radishes, and eggs make up this amazing dish

Dim Sum – you just haven’t had it as good as they make it in Singapore!

Laksa – a noodle and fish dish with curry

Curry Fish Head – exactly as it sounds and it is quite delicious

Many restaurants and food stalls offer these traditional dishes and so much more.

If you need a break from the local fare, do stop at the local McDonald’s.

Their menu features most of the American items with a few additions.

One thing that is significantly different is the caloric intake.

When we looked at their menu, entire meals only went as high as 500 calories.

Travel in Singapore Like A Local

It may be tempting to rent a car for your stay but we recommend using the transportation systems to be close to other travelers and the locals.

Trishaws, the traditional three-wheeled bike and carriage ride, is a fantastic way to get around.

There are trishaw systems that you can use, much like a bus system, or you can opt for a freelance driver who will be happy to take you around (and may give you local tips on sights and adventures).

There is also a subway system, Mass Rapid Transit, that is reputable for it’s reliable and fast service.

We suggest getting passes so that you can save on the fare during your stay.

You can also hire a car or find a rental to travel on your own time.

These are often more costly options but they are great if you plan on going very long distances from your accommodations.

If you do have a budget for your trip, do the research and look for ways to save money.

Groupon, travel miles, and AAA can offer ways to lower your expenses.

If you can’t do all that you want on your trip, try not to stress about it. It will give you a good reason to go back!

It is a new year which means new travel goals. When you are deciding where in the world to visit, it’s fun to learn about new places in the process. No matter your travel goals, it’s worth considering a trip to visit Tibet.

As the highest region anywhere in the world, Tibet lives up to its nickname as the “roof of the world.”

Being the average elevation is 4,900 meters (16,000 feet) it’s important to know the best month to visit Tibet.

When to visit Tibet

Every country and every place has a certain best time to go — a time when everything is ideal and optimal.

You may think July is the best time to visit, given it’s the warmest month on Mt Everest.

However, considering all factors, including temperature, attractions entry, travel cost, and weather, April is one of the best months to visit Tibet.

While Tibet is a region where each season and every type of weather highlights a different face and beauty of the region, April is the best month to go.

In addition, there are additional reasons why April is the best month to travel to Tibet and the Lhasa Buddhist Temples.

Since it’s getting a bit warmer, the tourism season is just starting in the late March.

Typically, there are  discounts. During this time — from February to April — there is no entrance ticket policy.

The tour and package promotions are in full swing during these months.

As Tibet is an expensive place for travel, it is best to make use of discounts during the month of April.

Hotels often give discounts for early bookings during the month of April.

You need to be wary of very inexpensive-sounding packages and tours.

Some are decent so it’s important to do your homework and research when you are looking for the cheapest Tibet tour.

Weather for Everest Tour from Lhasa

The weather during April suited for a variety of activities.

April and March are months very well-suited for climbing Mount Everest and for hiking to or exploring Everest Base Camp.

A one week trip from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp — which includes visiting attractions in Lhasa and Shigatse — is one of the most popular trips during April.

Many Mt Everest climbing packages are available in the month of April.

The skies are clear and so the views are also clearer. You can hike freely in your own pace in the month of April.

With proper prior training and exercises for climbing the Everest, the experience is favorable, pleasant, and hassle-free if you climb the Everest in April.

You will need the appropriate gear and clothing as the weather will be cold given the elevation.

There is also a package that includes EBC and Lake Namtso along with Lhasa.

Depending on what you want to see and do, there are many different itineraries to suit your needs.

Sample itinerary for 8- day Everest Base Camp trip during April:

Day 1: Lhasa
Day 2: Lhasa Tour- Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Day 3: Lhasa Tour- Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery
Day 4- Lhasa to Gyanste to Shigatse
Day 5: Shigatse to Everest Base Camp
Day 6: Everest Base Camp to Shigatse
Day 7: Shigatse to Lhasa
Day 8: Departure from Lhasa

Many package options can be customized to your needs.

For sure, discuss it with your tour operators to know more details to find out what makes the most sense logistically.

Perfect Time for Tibet Trekking like Mt. Kailash Kora

April is a good month for trekking in Tibet.

Mt Kailash Kora

One of the most popular trekking destinations that tourists and pilgrims do is the Mt. Kailash Kora.

Mt. Kailash is considered as a holy mountain by people of Buddhist, Bon, Jain, and Hindu faiths.

Kora is act of circumambulation around a holy place.

Thousands of pilgrims travel to Tibet to perform Kora around Mt. Kailash.

Lake Mansarover

Trekking around Mt. Kailash and visiting the nearby, holy Lake Mansarover are some of the most popular activities.

It is said that taking a dip in Lake Mansarover absolves a person of their sins from previous and current life.

April and May are the best months to do this as summer showers start in June.

Saga Dawa Festival

Another reason to visit Mt. Kailash during April is the Saga Dawa Festival.

This festival falls in the middle of April and thousands of locals flock to Mt. Kailash to celebrate this.

They erect a huge pole with a lot of prayer flags tied to it.

Tourists can also trek around Mt. Kailash for adventure and for a religious experience.

There are also five monasteries surrounding the mountain which give a great insight into religion and culture.

More than a challenging and adventurous experience, trekking around Mt. Kailash will be an authentic experience that shows you the religious side of Tibet.

Here is a popular Kailash Mansarover itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival at Lhasa
Day 2: Exploring Lhasa- Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Day 3: Exploring Lhasa- Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery
Day 4: Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse
Day 5: Shigatse- Tashilunpo- Saga
Day 6: Saga- Lake Mansarover
Day 7: Mansarover- Zanda Valley (Guge Kingdom)
Day 8: Guge- Tsabrang
Day 9: Transfer to Darchen
Day 10: Kora first day (4,920m)
Day 11: Kora second day (5,600m- 4,800m)
Day 12: Kora third day (4,500m) (rest in Paryang)
Day 13: Paryang- Tingri
Day 14: Tingri- Everest Base Camp and Rongbuk Monastery
Day 15: Rongbuk- Shigatse
Day 16: Shigatse- Lhasa

Early April for Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival

Peach blossoms bloom all around Tibet from mid- March to mid- April.

Since 2002, local Tibetans and tourists have celebrated this beauty of nature to acknowledge the stunning views and promote local region and culture.

The flowering phases slightly change depending upon the different region it grows in.

While travelling in Nyingchi, you will see peach blossom festival celebrated in following regions:

• Bome County
• Zayu County
• Bayi District
• Mainling County
• Nang County
• Gongbo’gyamda County

In some regions, they bloom until the end of April and in some region only until mid-April.

Activities at the peach festival

Some of the popular activities during the festival are:

• Photography contests
• Exploring ancient Tibetan villages
• Seeing roads lined up with pastel beauties in bloom
• Enjoying the hot springs
• Enjoying the competitions, including archery, horse racing
• Cruising the Niyang River
• Sampling the delicious local foods

One of the more important Tibet traveling hacks to note is that Tibet is not open to international tourists during the month of March, so travelling to Tibet during early April is the best time to catch the Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival.

From its vantage point, the best month to visit Tibet is April.

It’s the month when the weather starts getting warm, the sun starts staying out a little longer, and leaves turn into a new color.

The cold weather and snow starts wearing off in the lower regions of the valley and wind is dry.

April is the month that is perfect for doing pretty much everything, be it trekking, hiking, cycling, or over-landing.

Visit Tibet during April to experience the best of everything.

Lhasa Buddhist Temples are a must see in Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet. Lhasa has many names — Roof of the World, City of Sunshine, and Land of Gods to name a few.

It is called ‘Roof of the World’ as it is one of the highest, habitable cities in the world.

It is called the ‘City of Sunshine’ as it receives a lot of sunshine compared to other places in Tibet.

Also, it is known as the ‘Land of Gods’ as Lhasa is the spiritual center of Tibet.

Lhasa has some of the most important palaces and monasteries within Tibet.

These palaces and monasteries are of cultural and religious significance.

For hundreds of years, people have protected, maintained, and rebuilt them.

Here are some of the top Buddhist attractions you must visit in Lhasa to start your Tibet tour.

It is necessary to know more about their religion, culture, and way of life.

Lhasa Buddhist Temples and Attractions

Jokhang Temple

Jokhang is one of the important Buddhist temples in Tibet.

Many consider it to be the spiritual center of Lhasa.

Jokhang Temple is more than 1,000 years old and is located in the center of the city.

You can see many roads and paths diverging from the temple.

Since its conception, restorers have renovated the temple a number of times to preserve and safeguard it against the modern development.

What to see at Jokhang Temple

The temple is also famous for its architecture which is said to be influenced by Indian, Nepalese, and Tibetan style.

Jokhang Temple is the best place to get a peek into the religious lives of Buddhists.

One of the things that make this temple an important spiritual center is the life-size image of 12-year-old Jowa Sakyamuni.

It is about 1.5 m high. It is a revered treasure of the temple.

Inside the temple you can many paintings depicting the ancient times in Tibet.

From the golden roof of the temple you can see the full view of the beautiful Potala Palace.

You will further see prayer halls and chapels throughout the temple.

Local pilgrims visit this temple every day.

Surrounding the temple is the Barkhor Street which has many old shops lined up.

It also serves as a kora path for the pilgrims; it takes about 30 minutes to circumambulate the temple in Barkhor Street.

Potala Palace

This UNESCO World Heritage site is the star attraction of Lhasa.

Potala Palace looms over Lhasa so graciously and magnanimously.

This palace was constructed by 5^th Dalai Lama in the year 1645.

Sitting at an altitude of 3,700 m on top of the Marpo Hill, this palace symbolizes Tibetan Buddhism.

Potala Palace is one of the highest ancient palaces in the world.

This palace is 13 stories high with more than a 1,000 rooms and spans over an area of 13 hectares.

Potala Palace is famed for its architecture, artworks, murals and ancient religious treasures.

This was once the winter palace of Dalai Lama.

Today it is a religious place, tourist attraction, and a museum.

The palace is built in woods and natural stones like granite.

The fortress-like walls surrounding the palace will leave you with a lasting impression.

There are beautiful carvings and paintings that tell us about the glorious days of Tibet.

Main parts of the Potala Palace

There are two main parts in the palace: the Red Palace and the White Palace.

The Red Palace is in the center and consists of Buddhist halls, libraries, prayer halls, golden stupas, and chapels.

It houses ornate golden chortens of previous Dalai Lamas.

The White Palace was where Dalai Lama used to stay while visiting.

It was the office for handling political and religious matters.

There are statues of many important people who contributed to Buddhism.

They only allow a limited number of people inside the palace every day.

Therefore, it is important for you to book the tickets in advance to witness the inside of this beauty.

To get a full picture of the palace, go to:

• Chakpori Hill
• Zongjiao Lukang Park
• Potala Palace Square

During the nights, the palace looks lit up with all the lights lining every edge and corner of the palace.

Great three Gelugpa Monasteries

Gelugpa is a sect that follows the latest school of thought in Tibetan Buddhism.

Also, known as the Yellow Hats Sect, it was founded by Tsongkhapa in 15^th century.

Around 17^th century, this school of thought spread widely and many practice it today.

People built many monasteries following Gelugpa school of thought all around Tibet.

In Lhasa, the three most important Gelugpa monasteries are a popular attraction for those who want to know more about the religion and culture of people who follow Buddhism.

The three monasteries are:

• Ganden Monastery
• Sera Monastery
• Drepung Monastery

The devoted followers and students of Tsongkhapa built these monasteries.

Ganden Monastery

Standing at an elevation of 3,800 m on the side of Wangbur Mountain, Ganden Monastery was built in 15^th century.

It is a large monastery with more than 50 buildings inside it.

The main attraction is the Tsochin Hall with 100 massive pillars.

The monastery has pagodas, chambers, prayer halls, shrines, and assembly halls.

With beautiful scenery surrounding the monastery, you can hike around with the pilgrims performing Kora.

You can also trek from Ganden Monastery to Samya Monastery where you be hiking across small valleys, temples, lakes, and ancient villages.

Sera Monastery

Built in the year 1419, Sera Monastery is located in an area where wild roses bloom every year.

This monastery houses three colleges of which Sera Je College is the most popular.

Visitors can tour this college and see the many spectacular Buddha statues and stupas.

The main attraction of this monastery is the debating sessions that happen at 3:00 pm.

Except Sundays, monks gather in the courtyard at 3:00 pm to debate.

Visitors can witness the debate but cannot take pictures of them.

You will see junior and senior monks clapping loudly and debating vigorously to make their point.

Drepung Monastery

Located at the foothills of Gambo Utse Mountain, this monastery looks like a white heap of rice.

It is respected as the Mother Monastery of Dalai Lamas’ owing to the fact that many Dalai Lamas have studied here.

At one point of history, Drepung Monastery was the largest monastery in Tibet and housed as many as 10,000 monks in the monastery.

Today there are only around 700 monks.

There are four academies in the monastery.

In the forests surrounding the monastery, there are many courtyards.

One of the main highlights in the monastery is the 15 m high Maitreya Buddha statue.

Visiting Lhasa Buddhist temples and monasteries

Remember, Tibet is a place where people’s way of life and religion are closely intertwined.

The holy sites of Tibet carry history and stories of the past which the devout locals still preserve.

Visiting the Buddhist attractions (Tibet in April) will be an enriching experience.

Traveling to Tibet is on many travelers’ bucket lists.

Over the years, Tibet has become popular not only for its spiritual tourism but also for adventurous and offbeat tourism it offers.

Tibet’s secluded locality, high altitude (popularly called as the ‘Roof of the World’), warm hosts, and old world charm make Tibet a must visit.

You’ll enjoy serene spiritual vibes, religious monasteries and sacred relics, majestic mountains, breathtaking views and pristine lakes.

And Tibet’s challenging roads for driving and cycling are something to experience.

Traveling to Tibet Hacks – How To Prepare For Tibet

Here are some awesome hacks and tips to help you prepare for first time trip to Tibet.

Use a Tibetan Travel Agency (MUST HAVE)

Find a reliable and responsible local Tibet travel agency

Tourists cannot travel solo in Tibet.

Their government does not allow doing so for safety reasons.

Whether you are travelling alone or in a group, you have to go through a certified Tibetan travel agency.

Tibet tours are expensive, and there are agencies that offer cheap packages.

Don’t book through agencies just because it is cheap; they compromise on safety and comfortable travelling.

Book with a reliable agency like Tibet Vista.

Tibet Vista has been arranging tours in Tibet for more than three decades and is one of the largest travel agencies in China.

Tibet Vista thrives to provide travelers with a safe, enjoyable, and thoughtful experience.

With a promise of arranging tours with no hassles, decades of experience, and a hard working team, it’s easily the best agency to book your trip with.

Tibet Vista not only provides standard package tours, you can also customize your trip with them.

The staff and guides are well versed in English which makes communication easier.

Customize Your Tibet Trip

Work with your travel consultant to customize your Tibet tour, keeping in mind Tibet has so many things to offer.

You can go on any type of trip:

• Fully adventurous trip filled with mountain climbing and over landing
• Full-scale cycling trip
• Fully spiritual tour which involves exploring many monasteries and old Tibet
• Trip that provides you a bit of both — adventure and spirituality

There are so many attractions in Tibet, do a quick research of what Tibet has to offer before booking a tour.

Decide also if you want to arrive to Tibet by flight or train.

Consider if you want to do an overland or cycling trip or will you travel by car.

Once you decide what kind of trip you are looking for, you can choose any existing packages or customize your itinerary.

You can customize your own itinerary depending on budget, time available, attractions you want to visit, and the month you are traveling to Tibet.

You can plan your ideal trip, the way you want, with help of travel consultants in the travel agency.

Tibet Travel Permit Hack

What do you need to travel to Tibet?

E-mail your travel documents to apply for Tibet permit to China.

You need certain documents to enter Tibet.

Along with your Chinese visa, you need a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) to enter Tibet.

You can obtain your Tibet Travel Permit through your travel agency.

You will have to email them copies of your passport and Chinese visa to the agency at least 20 days before your date of travel.

The permit can be obtained within 5-7 working days.

This permit is checked and asked for in airports, hotels, and at the entry of some attractions.

It is important to have them with you at all times.

If you want to travel out of Lhasa and other remote areas you have to obtain Aliens Travel Permit and Military Area Entry Permit.

These two permits can be obtained after entering Tibet, but you need TTP to enter Tibet.

Book your Tibetan flight, train tickets, and hotel accommodations ahead

It is important and advisable to book travel tickets and accommodation in advance.

Especially during peak tourism season, the flights, trains, and rooms get booked fast. Sometimes even the hostels get fully booked.

The Tibet tourism season is in peak from May to October…we like Tibet in April

The later you book, the more expensive gets the cost of stay and travel.

Train tickets have to be booked at least 4-5 weeks in advance as hundreds of people travel to Tibet by train, including the locals.

In case of hotel accommodations, if you want to stay comfortably in 3-star and budget hotels, you need to book at least a month in advance.

Sometimes even the youth hostels and home stays get fully booked by climbers or backpackers.

When you look for accommodation in the last minute, you might not get the room you want and might end up paying a lot for a room with very basic facilities.

Also, plane tickets are cheaper when you book at least a month in advance.

The travel and accommodation costs reduce by half during winter and off-season months, as the inflow of tourists are very low during those times.

Traveling to Tibet Packing Hacks

Double check your packing list before travelling

Tibet, the roof of the world, is located at an average elevation of 4,000 m.

You’ll experience even higher altitude in some places as you traverse mountains and various Tibetan attractions.

It is important to bring appropriate clothing and other necessary items.

Must Haves For Traveling to Tibet

Your Tibetan packing list should have the following items:

• Travel permits, passport, other travel documents
• Cotton t-shirts, thermal wear, down jacket, waterproof jacket, woolen gloves, socks, warm pants, sweaters, UV protected sun shades, hat
• Sunscreen, lip balms, hand sanitizer
• Emergency aid kit
• Energy bars, dry fruits, energy drinks, water bottle with filter or LifeStraw
• Small bag to carry your essentials
• Comfortable walking shoes; appropriate shoes for hiking if appropriate
• Hiking poles and sleeping bags if you are trekking
• Small waist pouch to carry money and permits
• Extra batteries, portable chargers for phones and laptops

The most important thing of all is the medication.

Most of the travelers irrespective of age, gender, and health condition, experience symptoms of altitude sickness like mild headaches and loss of appetite.

This is normal and the tourists are advised to visit their physician before the trip.

Get medicines for altitude sickness before the trip.

You can easily find small oxygen tanks to buy in Tibet in case of shortness of breath due to less oxygen in the air.

In case you forget to bring anything, you can find most easily in Lhasa.

Visiting Tibet

When traveling to Tibet you’ll discover for yourself what a wonderful place it is to visit.

There’s some beautiful views, Lhasa Buddhist Attractions and unwinding experiences in store for you.

Prepare yourself by researching in advance so you will have an easy time traveling in Tibet.

This is our first time traveling off season in South East Asia – we discussed many the many pros and cons before finally deciding to go.

One of the cons involved was the weather – what would Indochina tours be like during the off season?

Last time we traveled to a hot country during the off season was to Vanuatu, and while the country was amazing.

The weather was unbearable and we had to leave 2 weeks early.

So, would it be the same in South East Asia?

Well, now we’ve been here for nearly 2 months, and for all of you who wonder what the off season is like.

Here is a sum up from our experiences…

Off Season In South East Asia What Was Correct

Southeast Asia It’s Hot & Humid

The off season can get scorching hot, but while 33-36 degrees does sound pretty hot, it’s not the temperatures that breaks you – it’s the humidity – the more humid it is, the hotter it feels.

33 degrees in 80% humidity feels more like 40.

Walk outside for 15 minutes after 10am and you’ll be sweating like crazy and begging to go home again.

This makes you actually appreciate and welcome the rain, since whenever it rains, it cools everything down, and afterwards it’s actually really pleasant to be outside.

Some Months Are Hotter Than Others

We were told to avoid Thailand during May, as that is the hottest month of the year

In Malaysia, March and April are the hottest months, while May is an ideal time for many parts of the country.

Tuol Sleng Phnom Penh – Angkor Wat Siem Reap, Cambodia Videos
15 Most Awesome Destinations in Asia You Cannot Ignore

Off-Season In South East Asia What Was Wrong – It Rains All Day

Looking at the weather forecast on my iPhone, the weather looks seriously depressing: thunderstorms and rain every day.

The truth?

I can almost count the number of days it has rained during the last month in Malaysia on ONE hand.

Now I’m talking about days, not nights – we were expecting to experience lots and lots of rain, only to find that it almost only rained during the night.

This has been absolutely perfect – as the rain cools down the city, making it perfect to explore.

Waking up when the next morning with the streets still wet from the rain the night before has been ideal.

Don’t be put off by the weather forecast – it really isn’t always what it seems.

Rainy Season Is A Bad Time To Be In South East Asia

I was told that the off-season is a bad time to be anywhere in SEA, but this is simply not true.

In fact, some parts of the area is actually ideal at this time of the year, only it takes more planning.

Sometimes parts of the same country often have an off and high season at the same time.

In Sri Lanka, the western part of the island experience their off season, while the eastern part of the island has the best weather of the year right now.

Malaysia is even more obvious, right now is the best time to visit Borneo and the eastern side of the Peninsular, while the western side has its off season at the moment.

Bali and Singapore are the same pretty much all year round, and are good places to go at any time of the year.

I will say though that some places in SEA are much more uncertain than other.

Going on holidays to Vietnam should perhaps wait until after August, as parts of the country can be both very busy with kids going on school holidays, and get lots of rain.

The Good Thing About Off Season in South East Asia

The dusty brown countryside becomes lush and green during the off season.

It’s a great time to go for a Cambodia holiday if you’re interested in seeing the best of Angkor Wat.

It usually rains in the afternoon and at night, so it’s easy to plan around the weather.

Angkor Wat will be more beautiful than ever, with lush jungles, green moss and lichen on the ruins, and the pools are full of water creating beautiful reflections of the temples.

We still have some time left, and we haven’t yet been to Thailand, so we’ll see if our thoughts about it change – but so far, I doubt it.

What I Will And Won’t Miss From South East Asia

Spending 4 months in South East Asia was perfect.

Where to Stay in Singapore

We had planned to visit Philippines, Borneo and Vietnam, but when The Europe Train Challenge became a reality, we had to postpone those plans for another time and focus on the challenge ahead of us.

Leaving South East Asia, there are some things that I know I’ll really miss:

The Cheap Living

Not even the cheapest soup kitchen in Europe can compare with the 1 dollar meals and 20 cent drinks you find in South East Asia.

Luxury suites and resorts for the same price as a 10 bed dorm in Europe just doesn’t make any sense.

I know that I will question leaving a continent where we lived on a combined budget on 25 dollars a day, to a continent where 20 dollars will barely get you food for the day.

The Food

I didn’t realize how much I would miss the food until I arrived back in Europe.

Already the next day I longed for Asian food, spices and variety.

Plus, in South East Asia we never cooked our own food – what a luxurious life!

The Never Ending Surprises

A day in South East Asia will never let you down on surprises.

Quirky details are part of the every day life for a traveler here.

Funny interactions, signs, things that happen – you’re always surprised.

Asia’s Religion and Strong Beliefs

The culture and traditions here really blow life into the world.

While I’m not religious, I truly appreciate the dedication they have in South East Asia and their strong bond with their traditions, implementing it in every part of their daily lives.

I will really miss this colorful way of life, with prayers and traditional clothing.

The Misunderstandings and Culture Shocks

Misunderstandings and culture shocks are things that I both hate and love at the same time.

Travel would be more boring without them, and you get some funny memories afterwards.

I learned how to love it and appreciate it, because it taught me something about myself as well as others.

And – What I Won’t Miss

The Traffic

Pollution so thick you could almost touch it, the never ending beeping horns in Kuala Lumpur and the ignorance for pedestrians are some things I really won’t miss.

Knowing that you’re putting yourself in danger every time you buy a bus ticket in Laos just isn’t very comforting.

The Customer Service

Some people really get it, and those who do make it an incredible experience.

But then there are those who really don’t get it, who are afraid of confrontations, and instead of fixing it and apologizing, they pretend it never existed.

After a while you get used to not getting a straight answer if your cockroach infested room is cleaned and OK, but I would be happier if they could sometimes swallow pride and deal with it.

Perhaps they handle embarrassing mistakes differently from us, or just don’t see the problem.

The Rain

The last week we were there it rained more than it had in decades. You couldn’t even go outside – so what’s the point then? :p

I’m happy to be in Europe for the dryer summer months, and will let Asia dry up before I consider returning.

What are some things you loved and/or hated about Asia?

Asian Escapes to Sample

The largest continent in the world boasts of limitless number of wonderful travel destinations.

It is almost impossible for a single individual to sample all the amazing travel experiences that the continent of Asia has in store.

So, you have to make choices and try the most popular ones first.

If you are interested to explore Asia, try the following top 6 Asian escapes to sample.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a destination with balmy rain forests, colorful reefs, palm-fringed beaches, local legends, religious relics, ancient ruins, flavorful food, famous tea, fun trains, rolling surf, oodles of elephants and welcoming people.

To ensure you don’t miss out on anything that this country has to offer, you should book with a Sri Lanka holiday specialist.

You can expect to have plenty of unique experiences in this island country in the Indian Ocean.

China

China is a different world within the world.

The Chinese cuisine, its unique culture and wonderful attractions like the Great Wall, the Forbidden Kingdom and Terracotta Army make it one of the must visit travel destinations in Asia.

There is also that travel bucket list of traveling to Tibet (Tibet in April) to see the Buddhist temples in Lhasa

The modern cities of Beijing and Shanghai are no less wonderful and developed than the most popular and most developed cities in the world.

There are some great apps which will help you navigate and to communicate while you are visiting China.

Japan

In many ways, Japan is the same as China as a travel destination.

Like China, its foods, wonderful culture and unique structure of its buildings are the main attractions to visit.

The Mount Fuji of Japan is surely one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. S

o, its food, outdoor and wonderful culture will make sure you have some of the most exciting experiences of your life in this Asian country.

Thailand

Thailand is a destination with so many exotic natural landscapes, endless number of sacred temples, wonderful culture, and delectable foods.

In the streets of Bangkok, you can expect to find some of the most delicious yet very cheap foods in the world.

With a great tourism infrastructure, Thailand is always ready to welcome its visitors and offer them some exciting experiences of lifetime.

India

India is arguably the richest and most diverse travel destination in Asia.

It is so big that you should take at least a month to sample only its top attractions and experiences.

The Taj Mahal of Agra alone is an enough reason to visit this wonderful country in Asia.

Gujarat Tourist Attractions boasts of wonderful natural landscapes, a unique culture, timeless ruins, historic attractions, delectable foods, great hospitality and cheapest prices.

There are also a number of luxury hotels in India that can make your stay complete.

If you are yet to visit this wonderful country, make it your next travel destination.

Nepal

Nepal has recently been hit by earthquake and many of its most prominent temples got destroyed.

Still, this small Asian country boasts of some wonderful attractions and natural wonders.

Include Nepal in your tour of Asia.

At least to see the highest mountain in the world, you should keep Nepal in your list.

Trekking in Nepal is an awesome once-in-a-lifetime experience!

You will enjoy planning a trip to experience any of these countries.

Efate Island – Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a place with many extremities – we were there during the monsoon season, and while most days were sunny, the weather was so humid that I sweated more there than I ever have in my whole entire life.

The dry season is a lot cooler, but the scenery is just as lush and beautiful at any time of the year.

The people in Vanuatu are among the friendliest I’ve met, and we were amazed by how we could snorkel with huge tropical fish only meters away from the beach.

(photo credit: magical-world – ubo_pakes)

Best Places To Visit In Bali – Despite being such a small island, Bali is packed with so many beautiful areas and awesome experiences. It’s one of my favorite places to visit in the world.

What I love the most about Bali is how much cultural heritage they have, their colorful traditions and celebrations that seem to happen pretty much every day.

Almost every day we learned there was a religious celebration going on in some part of the island that we should go and see.

If you haven’t visit Indonesia yet, get a plane ticket and book a hotel.

Enjoy all this amazing destination offers.

Best Places to Visit in Bali Indonesia

Ubud

After the movie ”Eat Pray Love” it’s probably quite busy in this little town in the middle of the island, but even before that movie, Ubud was popular for a very good reason: it’s the artistic hub of Bali.

Surrounded by rice paddies (which for the record you have to see – they’re beautiful!), this town was originally important as a source of medicinal herbs and plants, which is perhaps the reason why there are so many detox- and spa centers there.

If you have a few days to spare I’d really recommend trying a detox program, it totally goes with the spirit and vibe of Bali, and it’s so much cheaper than in the West.

In fact it might be cheaper even when including the cost of cheap flights to Bali, than a detox would at home.

Today Ubud is also known for the abundance of art and crafts sold there, and it’s a great place to base yourself when doing day trips to the nearby villages.

Amed

Amed is perhaps one of the trickiest places in Bali to reach.

This can also be seen as a good thing, as there are pretty much NO tourists there, yet it’s the perfect place to go snorkeling or diving, find empty beaches and, for those who want to feel like they’re in the middle of nowhere – Amed is prefect.

Tenganan Village

A short moped ride away from Candidasa, you’ll find Tenganan Village, one of the ancient villages where the native Balinese people live.

Here houses and customs are the same as they always have been.

Apart from showing a few tourists around the village, inside their homes, and sharing their rare craft and art – things go on as normal.

Tanah Lot

There are way too many temples in Bali to count, but if you can only visit one temple, make sure it’s Tanah Lot.

This temple is unique because it’s located in such a beautiful location.

It’s a temple on a rock, surrounded by water and when the tide is high it’s actually inaccessible, even by boat because of the rocks.

The best time to visit is when there is an event or celebration going on.

It is definitely a highlight to check out the Balinese celebrations, where the locals dress up in beautiful traditional costumes, sing, dance, and carry large plates of food on their heads to sacrifice to the gods.

A good time to visit is May, as there are no school holidays in Australia, it’s not a high season for tourists and we’ve found some really cheap international flights to Bali around that time.

Things To Do In Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a small but compact island in Indonesia – with so much to see and do there, and such a strong local culture, it almost seems like a country in itself.

To see and do everything you need at least one month, but today we’ll show you some highlights for a short trip to Bali.

The Artist Villages, Ubud

Ubud is known as the artist center, it’s the hub where people from nearby villages come to sell their art.

Many of the local artists live in the outskirts of Ubud, and every village has their special art specialty.

Painters live in one village, wooden craft people in another, and jewelry makers in a third etc.

Visiting these places one by one is a great experience, as you get to meet the whole family of artists (the art form is normally inherited from father to son) and see them work.

Also make sure you check out the nearby monkey forest!

Visit Tenganan

Tenganan is an ancient village in the middle of nowhere, 5 km off the road from Candidasa.

It’s the oldest village in Bali, where the people have also kept their old pre-Hindu customs.

This village is a Bali Aga village (from the people who were there before the Hindu Javanese came to Bali).

It’s a really charming place to visit for a day.

You can walk around the village, visit a local’s home, let them weave you something using their traditional technique, or paint you something (like a traditional Aga story).

They normally just ask you for a small donation on entry – which goes toward keeping the village running.

Close to Tenganan, you can find a little village called Jasri where you can have a true local experience with the villagers and have an amazing rice field walk in Bali.

Relax in Amed

This is a place MOST people don’t even know about – we didn’t meet a single tourist while there for 7 days.

It’s easy to understand why celebrities choose this place as a drug-rehab location for a few months – no one will be able to find you!

If you want to relax in a place in the middle of nowhere, snorkel and enjoy some solitude, then Amed is the place to go.

There is not much to do here, but just relaxing and enjoying the green nature and good swimming.

WARNING: there are no shops, ATM machines or anything there, so make sure you bring enough cash before you leave Kuta – we made this mistake! :p

Shop and Surf in Kuta

If you’re into surfing and shopping – then you’ll love Kuta.

The shopping here is cheap, and all the main surf brands have set up huge stores full of surf clothes-  plus the beach is nice and the surfing can be awesome!

You can easily hire a surfboard on the beach and go play in the water – Kuta is also the center for partying in Bali.

Rice Fields

Bali is the greenest place I’ve ever seen. Nowhere else have I seen so many different shades of green, in such a beautiful scenery.

The best way to enjoy the nature is to visit a rice field and walk through the middle of this green heaven.

There are some beautiful photo moments to get there.

Bali Rice Fields

When I think about Bali, the first thing which comes to mind is GREEN – everything there is such an incredible shade of green.

To really experience this green-ness, make sure you head out to the Bali rice fields.

A Balinese Dance Show

A show full of colors, amazing dresses, dances and humor – the story is the same but they always change their approach depending on the audience.

If you for example watch when the audience is full of teenage school classes, they will put in more childish humor and sex jokes, while for an older audience they stress other things.

Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple is a temple built on a rock by the sea, in the most beautiful setting.

Coming here during a celebration or ceremony is a great experience.

When we went there – there was a huge party where locals had traveled from long distances (many of them had walked the whole way), bringing food and other sacrifices, dressed in their special outfits.

Balinese music was playing, they were singing and there was golden decorations and dragons everywhere.

Top 5 Attractions In Bali Indonesia

From spectacular beaches to majestic temples and unique cultural displays, Top 5 Attractions In Bali Indonesia is a favored destination for travelers in search of something exotic.

This Indonesian province encompasses the isle of Bali as well as a few neighboring islands, and is home to most of the country’s Hindu minority.

Bali is treasured for its rich culture, with music and arts that date back several centuries.

Whether you’re staying at a hotel or renting one of the many available villas in Bali, make sure you plan to visit some of these memorable Top 5 Attractions In Bali Indonesia attractions.

Besakih Temple Bali Indonesia

Perched 1,000 meters up on Mount Agung, Besakih is known as Bali’s “Mother Temple”.

It is the largest and holiest temple on the island, with a breathtaking view of rice paddies and nearby hills and streams.

It is said that the first revelation from Balinese Hindu God Hyang Rsi Markendya was received here.

The main structure consists of three temples, dedicated to the Hindu trinity.

Also, Besakih is the only temple open to devotees from any caste group.

Mount Batur Bali Indonesia

Also known as Kintamani, this active volcano is renowned for majestic views of its surrounding valley.

The beautiful Lake Batur fills a large part of its caldera, and down below are three ancient villages set among hot springs and fertile lava fields.

With its mineral-rich soil, this area is a noted producer of high quality fruits and vegetables.

Hiking up Mount Batur usually takes at least three hours, and official guides are recommended.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces/Ubud

Ubud is famed for beautiful rice paddies that employ subak, a traditional cooperative irrigation system originally brought by a revered holy man from India in the 8th century.

Tegallalang is a perfect spot from which to view this dramatic scenery.

Its high roadside location is a favorite among painters and photographers, as it looks down across a green terraced valley of rice paddies.

The nearby village of Pakudui is full of woodworking artisans, making it an ideal place to shop for authentic Balinese sculpture and other wooden crafts.

Tanah Lot Temple

Along with Besakih, this is one of Bali’s most important temples.

It sits on an offshore rock, which has been shaped by years of ocean tides.

Tanah Lot is revered for a mystic beauty that includes gorgeous sunset backdrops.

According to legend, a high priest from East Java traveled here in the 15th century to spread Hinduism and established the site to honor the sea god Baruna.

Bali Indonesia Safari And Marine Park

Covering 40 hectares in the Gianyar regency, this park is home to over 60 species of animals that roam free in large enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats.

There are animals from Indonesia, India and Africa, including sharks, baboons, Himalayan bears, and the famous Indian white tiger.

Camel and elephant rides are available, and there are fascinating exhibits such as a replica of the ancient Indian fort where white tigers roam free.

There’s also a guided safari tour that offers the chance to see and photograph exotic wildlife in the open range.

Balinese Day Of Silence (The Bali New Year)

Last year we had the fortune – or misfortune – to celebrate the Balinese New Year.

In the western world you open the new year by painfully trying to figure out what the hell happened the night before.

In Bali you open the new year very different- by softly reflecting on your life.

The Balinese New Year is a day of 100% silence – and by the time we had woken up it was already silent, deafeningly silent.

The only thing making any noise were the ocean waves.

Even the birds kept quiet! Sounds like a dream, right?

It was HELL!

Sunset In Bali On The Day Of Silence

You know that pleasant soothing sound of waves breaking by the shore?

It’s nice as a background sound, but being the only thing making a noise was slowly driving me crazy – I felt like I couldn’t even hear my own thoughts!

On the Day of Silence everything is closed – even the AIRPORT in Bali is closed down for 24 hours.

Nobody is allowed to go outside their houses, and you’re not allowed to play music or watch movies.

We stayed in a pretty little hotel right by the sea with an amazing view over the water and beach (see the picture above) – but we weren’t allowed to go swimming in the ocean – so it was over 30 degrees and this hotel had no pool, no TV, and no internet.

They had hung up big heavy curtains on the hotel to shut off the street, which was empty.

And as if that wasn’t enough, for some reason I still can’t understand, Nathan convinced me to do a food fast for the whole day.

Fast! No food?!

And I agreed?!

When there is nothing to do, you EAT!

You really make some strange decisions in strange situations…

Bali Bombing Memorial

This was such a sad event, and it was really moving to be walking through the middle of Kuta and see this memorial.

So many young people lost their lives there, and it really makes you appreciate the moments we have in this life.

I had a funny feeling that fate had something to do with it all, and I was certain of it when I soon realized that the only book I had to read in my room was called.

‘The Science of Self- Realization’

I felt as if Life was laughing at me playing its little tricks.

But it’s well thought through, this day of silence – it really does the job, and serves its purpose.

Because when there is  nothing to do and it’s completely quiet, there is nothing to distract me, stimulate me and blind me from my ego and my thoughts.

So I found myself for the first time in a long while, sitting silent and alone in my room, hearing my thoughts – and for once, actually listening to them.

Transformation takes place, leaving you feeling so peaceful and happy!

Well these are some of the best things to do next time you are in Bali – also a great way to see many of these in 1 day is to hire a taxi and tour guide for the day (it’s really cheap!) – we got one guy and he took us for an 8 hr tour around Bali, which turned into 14 hrs for the same price – amazing and really great to have a local tell you about everything.

Best Places to Visit in the Philippines – We all heard stories of what Thailand used to be like 20 years ago, before it was spoiled by the hordes of drunk tourists flocking its islands.

Just 3 hours flight away, there is still a place who maintains that exotic, virgin charm – the Philippines.

To add to that, the beaches and scenery are even more beautiful, and everything is cheaper.

The fact most potential tourists tend to overlook the Philippines while planning their tropical getaway does come with a price though.

The country isn’t a tourist mecca like Thailand is, so getting around and finding out what to do can be a bit of a hassle.

There is a lot of confusion and bad information found online.

That is why we decided to try and make sense of it for you, and present the best places to visit in the Philippines.

We are sure it will convince you to make the Philippines your next travel destination!

Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

Palawan Philippines

Considered one of the best islands in the world, Palawan is the number one place to visit in the Philippines.

Palawan offers a great mix of popular, crowded beaches and private island resorts such as Pamalican and Minoloc.

The island is one of the best value for money destinations in the world since even the high end resorts are still relatively cheap.

Those who wish to venture off the beaten track should head out to Coron.

This less developed area hosts some of the best beaches in the Philippines, and is considered a world class diving site.

Accommodation is more basic, but in exchange you get to enjoy the feeling of being on a truly exotic island.

In any case, make sure you spend at least one night in the Provincial capital Puerto Princesa, so you could visit the famous underground river national park.

Boracay

Boracay, and especially the white beach area, is the most popular tourist spot in the country.

Boracay is a very small island, so it can easily get crowded there especially in the high season.

The island is the Filipino version of Thailand’s wild party islands such as Samui and Phangan.

The 4km long beach area is packed with bars, nightclubs and restaurants so you can always find something to do.

During the day, the best thing to do is just lay back and relax at one of Boracay’s stunning beaches.

White beach has been voted best beach in the world for a reason – the azure water and white sandy beach are simply breathtaking.

For that reason, the island is also a great place for swimming and snorkeling.

Bohol

If Boracay is paradise for singles and party lovers, then Bohol is the best place for couples and families with small children.

It doesn’t mean there is no nightlife there – Panglao’s Alona beach is actually considered one of the best party spots in the Philippines, second only to Boracay.

Bohol, however, offers much more than just parties to its visitors.

Dozens of secluded beaches and islands are scattered everywhere and the amount of attractions is just endless.

No description of Bohol could be complete without mentioning the famous Chocolate hills, a truly one of a kind geological formation.

The hills are by far the most popular attraction in Bohol, but by no means the only one.

Diving with dolphins and taking a cruise down the tropical Loboc river are also highly recommended.

The island is really one of the best places to experience the country’s diverse wildlife and nature.

The greatest thing about Bohol is how close it is to so many other beautiful destinations, including Boracay.

It will be really easy for you to include in your travel plan, and it’s definitely worth it spend a few days there and see everything the place has to offer.

A mix of beautiful relaxing beaches with exciting adventure is the essence of a vacation in the Philippines, and Bohol catches that essence perfectly.

Sagada rice terraces

Sagada is a great alternative to the more traditional island destinations mentioned above.

Don’t expect luxury resorts or exciting nightlife, because Sagada is mostly about tradition and nature.

The Cordillera mountain province is home to Igorot tribe, the native people of the Philippines who keep the old traditions alive.

Combine that with the scenic mountain view, and you’ll understand why Sagada is a great place to visit.

One of these traditions, dating back over 2000 years, is the use of the man made rice terraces of Banaue.

Banaue is just a short ride from Sagada, and we recommend staying at Sagada because it is much more tourist friendly and welcoming, and closer to many other local attractions.

The Cordillera rice terraces are many, but the most beautiful ones are located near the village of Batad.

The Batad rice terraces have been declared an UNESCO world heritage site, so definitely a place you can’t afford to visit.

Getting to Sagada or Banaue can be a bit tricky, since there are no commercial flights available.

The only possible way to get there is to take a bus from Manila, or hire a private van.

It is really better to consult with a local travel agency while planning a trip to Sagada, because it will help you save a lot of precious time and avoid making any mistakes.

Manila

Many tourists overlook this amazing city and just pass through it on their way to the islands.

Don’t be one of those, and make sure you enjoy everything Manila has to offer.

What makes Manila a great place is the truly special mixture of cultures and the stark contrast between old and new.

With anything from old forts and churches to some of the world’s largest and busiest shopping malls, it really has something to offer everyone.

Especially recommended is the old city Intramuros.

The area was originally a fort founded by the Spaniards upon their arrival, and now serves as the old city and is full of stunning buildings and interesting museums.

Nearby, north of the Pasig river, lies the world’s oldest Chinatown.

Named Binondo, this Chinatown is especially fascinating because of the unique blend between Filipino-Hispanic culture and the Chinese one.

This mixture is best witnessed by visiting the district’s remarkable pagoda bell tower.

Manila is also surrounded by many magnificent locations, some of which are among the country’s most beautiful.

A mere few hours by bus you can find anything your heart desires – beautiful secluded beaches or tropical volcanoes perfect for hiking or camping outdoors.

Puerto Galera is the obvious choice for a beach getaway near Manila, but if you are looking to get away from the tourists you should consider the Batangas beaches instead.

Laiya beach is especially recommended.

6 Cities You Have to Visit This Year

Top Places to Visit in Manila Philippines

Manila is the capital of the Philippines. It offers rich history with many ancient buildings unique to the architectural design of the 16th century.

There are fantastic places to visit in Manila, including great restaurants, nightlife and activities.

Often overlooked as a travel destination, this city has much to offer, from the Manila marketplace, magnificent sunsets on the Manila Bay, and Binando — Manila Chinatown.

It’s also a bustling and culturally interesting city.

And Manila is less than five hours by plane from major cities such as Hong Kong.

Places to Visit in Manila Philippines

San Sebastian Catholic Church

Famous for its all-steel architecture, the San Sebastian Church was built in 1891.

With two imposing spires jutting high into the sky, the church is of Gothic architectural design.

The beautiful stained glass is from Germany.

Eusebio Garcia was the sculptor.

This all-steel church is the only one in Asia and is a national historic landmark.

Another unique old building, the San Agustin Catholic Church, is the oldest stone church in the country.

It was built in 1589.

Used as a concentration camp during World War II, it is now known as the wedding capital of the world.

Divisoria Marketplace

Crowded, hot and humid, Divisoria marketplace is an experience you’ll not want to miss.

The key to an enjoyable time is to go early before the crowds arrive.

Indoor and outdoor eateries and shops line the street and the wares are most affordable.

Another marketplace you may want to visit is Quiapo.

It’s known for its shops, Quiapo Church and ebony statue depicting Christ, the Black Nazarene statue.

During Holy Week and in early January, you can experience their festival in the streets to mark the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.

Chinatown in Binondo

Many tourists visit Binondo for its large variety of excellent Chinese restaurants.

Chinatown in Manila is the oldest Chinese neighborhood worldwide, established in the late 1500’s.

The history of Chinatown is available if you hire a tour guide while visiting the area.

So be sure to take a “Binondo Food Trip” while visiting Manila.

Fort Santiago

National hero, Jose Rizal, was imprisoned here before his death by execution in the 1500’s.

You can tour Fort Santiago, Rizal Park and Paco Park by carriage or take a walking tour if you would like.

Rizal wrote some of his famous anecdotes, novels and poems while living in Fort Santiago.

His memory lives on in the hearts of the people who live here.

Manila Bay

For a look at the loveliest sunsets in the world, take a dinner cruise on Manila Bay.

You’ll want to be sure to visit Harbor View, Ermita, Manila with restaurants and shops along the walkway, among them the renowned Harbor View Restaurant.

Although many do not appreciate its beauty because of pollution, Manila Bay is a busy trade and historical center and one of the top tourist attractions in Manila.

Is Caramoan Philippines The Secret Paradise?

If you’ve got a few extra days and the means to travel, you’ll want to visit Caramoan.

While it’s not exactly “close,” — it’s 13 hours by plane from Manilla — it’ll be worth the trip.

People consider it to be the secret paradise in the Philippines, a place that not many people hear about or know where it is.

Most people instead tend to crowd to the nearby Borcacay — a 14-hour flight from Manila — instead of Caramoan.

Which makes Caramoan perfect for those looking for a paradise just for themselves off the beaten path.

Caramoan started getting some attention a few years ago when the French Survivor TV show started shooting there, and this year the Israel Survivor show will also be using the same location.

The reason why these islands are such a popular shooting location for Survivor is because they want their contestants to feel like they are really far away from civilization.

You can do that in Caramoan.

It’s a wild paradise.

Explore the sights and immerse yourself in the culture of this amazing city.

(Photo 1, 2, 4, 5)

Music Festivals of Bangalore – If you are a sucker for travel and music, just like me, then India won’t disappoint you.

Amidst the two extremes of chaos and languidness, lies a constantly reverberating music scene.

Music in India is an orchestra of different genres, beats, and tunes.

During my tour, I found musical groups from all genres. India came across as a remarkable country for a music aficionado like me who travels to find a rhythm is every corner.

Music speaks a common language, and it touches us in ways which are hard to comprehend.

Amongst several cities, the place that offered me the highest musical ecstasy was Bangalore.

Often termed as the Silicon Valley of India, the place surprisingly brims with music lovers.

Bangalore, recently christened as Bengaluru, has a rich history of music and is a hub for hosting international and national music festivals for more than a decade.

From traditional Hindustani Folk to Rock, from Carnatic to Jazz, many musical schools find their homes in the city.

If your love for music and traveling overlaps like me, then Bangalore India is the place to be.

During my visit, I wanted to find accommodation at a well-connected place like Indiranagar.

So, I checked into one of the OYO hotels in Indiranagar Bangalore and I wasn’t disappointed.

OYO Rooms is India’s largest branded network of hotels offering budget friendly accommodation throughout the country.

Though a bit hesitant at first, I must admit, I wasn’t let down.

The hotel provided all the necessities within my means.

Music Festivals of Bangalore

Anyway, moving on, I figured out a list of must-attend music festivals for travelers around the globe.

I recommend you visit these to embark on a musical journey in the city.

Storm Festival

Storm Festival is the most authentic camp-out music festival in India.

A one of a kind music festival, Storm Festivals hosts artists from a plethora of genres.

Set out amidst the lush green foliage in the outskirts of Bangalore, the festival is an overjoy for people looking to experience the serenity of nature and the fusion of sounds.

One can camp the whole night overlooking the stars, and there are also numerous side activities to do.

From Indie to Folk and from camp-jams to bonfires, this is a must visit music festival in you are in Bangalore.

Block your calendar: For three nights, around January

Music Ahoy! – Live sets of EDM, Ambiance, Collaborations and the feeling of cohesion

Bangalore Open Air

If metal runs in your blood, then Bangalore Open Air is a treat for all the headbangers.

India’s only dedicated heavy metal open air music festival, BOA has hosted some legendary metal bands in the country.

Kreator, Iced Earth, Animals as Leaders and Destruction are some of the bands who have been featured in the festival.

One can also witness up-and-coming metal bands from India who compete for a spot to play at the historical Wacken Open Air.

Block your calendar: For three days, around June/July

Music Ahoy! – Legendary Metal Bands, Mosh-pits, Sound stage

Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival

One of the oldest music festivals in the country, Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival has a history of being hosted in 55 cities around the globe.

Established in 1992, this music festival has seen some of the greatest artists like Bismillah Khan, Al Jarreau, Jean-Luc Ponty and MS Subbulakshmi performing on the stage.

A festival that has displayed talent from different genres like Indian Classical, Orchestral, Jazz, Rock and folk styles makes this festival a must attend for all music fanatics.

This festival has hosted audiences of up to 200,000 at a single festival.

Block your calendar: Around the month of January

Music Ahoy! – Authentic Indian Classical and Fusion of different genres, brilliant Jazz line-up

Ruhaniyat Music Festival

Ruhaniyat brings out Sufi Saints and Mystics from around the world in a one of a kind celebration of music, peace, and harmony.

It was established in 2001 and has since drawn loyal audiences every year.

It is known to host unpopular artists and actual practitioners of mystic traditions.

From folk singers to Wakaris and Qawwals, artists participating in Ruhaniyat aim to deliver a message of global brotherhood.

A chance to witness the finest talents coming from across a spectrum of different cultural backgrounds.

Block your calendar: Around the month of December/January

Music Ahoy! – Actual Practitioners of ancient philosophies; Fakirs, Shabad Singers, Monks

Echoes of Earth Music Festival

India’s first ecologically crafted music festival, this is a one of a kind dose of music.

Focusing on sustainable living, this festival aims to promote goodwill through various workshops on wellness and green lifestyle.

With over 40 artists performing last year, Echoes of Earth is a must attend music festival for all nature dwellers who find tranquility in music.

Spanning across various genres, the line-up has seen popular international artists like Youngr, Jordon Rakei, and Alo Wala.

Block your calendar: Around the month of November

Music Ahoy! – Workshops on green living, display of artworks created by principles of recycling

Bangalore showcases a blend of various activities and is a must visit place for anyone visiting India.

During my tour of India last year, I encountered innumerable things to experience.

I am a music fanatic, and I thoroughly enjoyed going to various festivals across India.

The live music scene in India has been sprouting, and since then I have added a lot of artists to my favorite lists.

Indian Festivals You Don’t Want To Miss! – Holi

I LOVE traditional Indian Festivals – they are some of the best and most fun ways to experience a new country and get an insight into its culture and traditions.

In India, countless festivals are held throughout the year, and during these events the country becomes even brighter and more vibrant than ever.

Although not traditionally known as a party hotspot, India has a proud tradition of offering tourists and locals alike a calendar full of festivals to appeal to every age group.

Here are the ones you should check out.

Here are some odd, beautiful and funny Indian Festivals to check out next time you visit India …How to Travel Green through India

Of all festivals around the world, the one I long to experience the most is Holi.

The most colorful festival on the planet. The festival is held for 2 days in March every year.

Unlike the Songkran festival in Thailand where everyone throws water on each other, you throw colored powder (and colored water) on each other instead!

The photos from this festival are just gorgeous, so colorful – it really is a photographer’s dream!

If you’ve ever seen footage on television of Indians painted in vibrant colours, running around under water sprinklers, you’ve probably seen Holi.

Holi is the Festival of Colour celebrating the beginning of Spring and commemorating a good harvest from the fertile land.

The Holi bonfire, called Holika, is lit at the major crossroads of cities and used to burn the Effigy of Holika, a wooden depiction of a demon.

Join in the festivities and witness the joy of the Indian people at this vibrant event.

The date of Holi also changes every year but is usually held around February/March.

Diwali

The only reason I experienced the Diwali festival when I was in India was because the taxi driver told us to change our plans and go to a nearby town instead to celebrate “Diwali”.

We had never heard of it before and had no idea what we were expecting, but it sounded like a fun idea – and today I’m so glad we went.

Diwali is actually one of India’s most popular festivals, celebrated all across the country between mid-October and mid-November.

This man barely had any time to stack the flowers on the thread because so many people came by to buy from him.

Then again it was Diwali, one of the biggest celebrations of the year, and the Marigold flower is an important detail to the festival.

The 5 day long festival is celebrated to mark the triumph of good over evil, and is also known as the festival of light, bringing attention to our “inner light”.

While I was in a small town, one of the best places to experience it is in Bangalore.

The festival is even wilder and bigger in Bangalore, so next time I have the opportunity to see it again that’s definitely where I will go.

Many others are probably thinking the same thing though, so hotels in Bangalore can book up quickly.

It’s better to book in advance so you can be sure you get some place to stay.

Diwali is the most famous festival in India and rightly so:

It is the most important event of the year.

Known as the Festival of Light, Diwali (also known as Dipawali) is a celebration of both the harvest and the first day of the financial year.

Locals place clay lamps known as deepa outside their homes as protection from dark spirits and celebrate the festival by spending time with family and worshipping Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.

Diwali goes for five days so make sure you get to see as least some of it on your travels.

The date of Diwali changes every year but is usually held in October/November.

Krishna Janmashtami Indian Festivals

Krishna Janmashtami is a festival in celebration of the Krishna god, it’s full of events and performances; children dress up as Lord Krishna, and people perform dances depicting the different events in Krishna’s life.

The highlight of the festival however, is Dahi Handi, a competition which involves young men forming a human pyramid and climbing on top of each other to reach a pot of curd.

The pyramids can be as tall as 40 feet, with as many as eight layers – and yes, many competitors often get injured.

The festival runs for two days in August or September every year.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Celebrating the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the Ganesh Chaturthi.

Also known as the Great Ganesha Festival, is celebrated by Hindus around the world.

The best place to celebrate this festival is in the state of Maharashtra.

Where the festivities last for 10 days between August and September.

Prior to the festival, skilled artisans prepare clay models of Lord Ganesh.

Houses are cleaned as devotees prepare to bring the Lord Ganesh into their homes and install the deity.

Throughout the festival, special prayers, devotional chanting and singing are performed – along with delicious sweets (apparently Ganesh liked them!).

On the 11th day, the Ganesh statue is taken through the streets in a procession accompanied with dancing, singing and fanfare to be immersed in a river or the sea.

Karni Mata Festival

Not the biggest festival in India, but surely one of the oddest.

The Karni Mata Festival is held twice a year (March-April and September-October) to worship Goddess Durga.

The place to be during this festival is at the Karni Mata temple, a 600 year old temple which is home to thousands of rats.

The rats are believed to be sacred as the soul of Karni Mata is said to reside in the rats.

At 4am the doors to the temple open for worship and blessings, and food is offered to the god.

Eating what the sacred rats have salivated over is considered to bring good fortune, and the same goes for letting them scurry over your feet..!

If none of those are options you’re up for, then look out for a white rat, because seeing this rarity is also supposed to bring good luck.

Elephant And Mahout, India:

Elephant together with its Mahout – trainer. Elephants are very loyal to their mahouts and they are often associated with supernatural powers because they control such a big animal.

Ideally, this relationship will not end until either the elephant is sold or the mahout dies.

Many mahouts will spend up to 26 days out of the month with their elephant and the remainder with his family.

Pushkar Camel Fair

Ever wanted to see 50,000 camels in one place?

If so, head to the Pushkar Camel Fair where camels and their owners arrive at Pushkar in November to trade, parade and race their camels.

The event is a traditional style Indian festival that is mainly a carnival, although pilgrims also come to bathe in the lake to be absolved of their sins.

Watch performances from magicians, acrobats and snake charmers or go on one of the many rides available while you wait for the camel beauty contest to start.

Onam

Celebrated in Kerala, the Onam festival lasts for ten days during August and September.

The festival kicks off with elephant processions and the laying of the Pookalam, the floral carpet, in front of every house.

New layers are added each day to the carpet and there are different events and rituals for every day of Onam, ranging from spring-cleaning to the giving of gifts.

The final day has the most events, including ox racing, food eating competitions and feasts.

With spiritualism being such an important part of Indian culture, attending the myriad of festivals throughout the year is a great way to get to know the country and its people.

India tours such as those offered by My Adventure Store often place you near or in these festival areas so it’s worth checking them out while you’re in town.

You’ll be painting yourself with vibrant colors and voting for the prettiest camel in the pageant in no time.

Bangalore – The Garden City of India

Bangalore is a beautiful city alternatively referred to as “The Garden City of India” .

The city will surprise its visitors with the greenery, well maintained gardens and parks with a huge variety of trees and flowering plants.

Bangalore Garden City of India

Bangalore is a major attraction for music lovers who have an interest in authentic Indian Classical Music.

Other features of the city include its swanky restaurants, clubs, cinemas, pubs, shopping malls, carnivals and exhibitions.

While business travelers are lured to the city very often due to its status of being an IT hub of India.

Bangalore is the fastest emerging Cosmopolitan City of Asia, and the temperature remains moderate throughout the year, with beautiful ancient temples that display rich architecture are an amazing sight that makes it one of the most sought out destinations in the country.

Despite the advancement of technology and it acquiring the name of “Silicon City of India” it has managed to retain the traditional way of life and is a visual treat during festive seasons.

Here are some of the best attractions in Bangalore:

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

The garden was built by its famous ruler Hyder Ali as his private garden in 1760, and spreads over 40 acres of land with rare species of plants and trees.

The Glass House, a replica of Crystal Palace of London, is the highlight of the park.

With over 1000 species of flora and fauna, pools and flower beds, it is a great place to relax.

The Summer Palace

Built in 1791 by then Ruler Tipu Sultan (Gujarat Tourist Attractions) the palace remained his home till his death in 1799.

The palace is mainly built using Teak wood and is adorned with beautifully decorated pillars and balconies.

The ground floor serves as a museum showcasing artifacts and achievements made by Tipu Sultan.

Also known as Tashk-e-Jannat, which means envy of heaven, this palace will take you down the memory lane with its royal ambiance.

Cubbon Park

With an impressive array of fauna and flora, the Park is a landmark spread over 300 acres of land.

The landscape is designed in grand style with rocks, tress, bamboo groves, lush green grass and colorful flower beds.

Vishveshwaraya Museum

This is actually more of a Science Center than a museum. Each floor has a chosen discipline with a different theme.

The Engine Hall features machinery, engines and automobiles, whereas the Electro Technic Gallery has exhibitions on electronics and communication equipment.

Be prepared to spend more than three hours in the museum to cover the huge collections, such as the Space Gallery or the Gallery of Science for Children.

This boy was playing his flute with an undying passion, and, of course, trying to get some extra cash on the side…

Vidhan Soudh

Constructed in a Neo-Dravidian Style this is considered to be one of India’s most glorious buildings.

It houses the Government’s Legislative Assembly and offers a mesmerizing view to its visitors when lit at night during holidays.

5 New Delhi Parks and Gardens

India’s capital city, New Delhi, contains a number of gardens and green spaces.

When you begin to feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of this metropolis, retire to one of these five lovely gardens for some fresh air and outdoor fun.

Titillate your senses, relax with a quiet stroll or enjoy some of the attractions found in these five New Delhi parks and gardens.

Garden of Five Senses

Located on more than eight hectares in Saidul Ajaib village, the Garden of Five Senses was inaugurated in February 2003.

This garden, which was designed to incorporate features that stimulate all five of the senses, is home to several unique attractions.

 

Here, you can enjoy 200 different species of plants, including many fragrant, colorful flowers meant to excite both the eyes and the nose.

Other special features of the Garden of Five senses include its many art sculptures, its food and shopping court, its waterfalls and wind chimes, and its solar energy park.

Children can ride in solar-powered miniature cars. You can also rent solar-powered bicycles.

Deer Park

As its name suggests, Deer Park is home to numerous deer.

This park in South Delhi is a popular spot for jogging, walking and picnicking.

The park’s deer, which include the native spotted deer or chital, live in a special enclosure where visitors can observe them.

 

Other animals living in the park include rabbits, guinea pigs, peacocks and other native birds, most of which congregate around the park’s pond.

Visitors to Deer Park can also see historical tombs dating back to the Mughal Era.

The majority of the park is well-manicured, with plenty of shade trees, picnic areas, and a play area for the little ones.

Lodi Gardens

The 36.4-hectare Lodi Gardens in New Delhi are among India’s most historically valued; the gardens are under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India because they contain a number of ancient tombs and structures dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

The oldest tomb in the Lodi Gardens, the tomb of Sayyid dynasty ruler Mohammed Shah, was built in 1444.

Other important structures in the gardens include the tomb of Sikander Lodi, built in 1517, the Bara Gumbad and its attached three-domed mosque, the Sheesh Gumbad and the Athpula Bridge.

Few structures from this period of Indian history remain standing today, making the Lodi Gardens one of the nation’s most valuable heritage centres.

See this website to get great deals on New Delhi hotels convenient to the Lodi Gardens.

Mughal Gardens

The Mughal Gardens can be found to the rear of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the home of the president of India.

They’re open to the public during February only, but make a popular destination for outings during this time.

The Mughal Gardens feature both British and Mughal landscaping styles, and are home to an impressive number of flower species.

Four channels – two flowing north to south and two flowing east to west.

Divide the garden into a grid. Six fountains in the shape of lotus flowers mark the intersections of these channels, and trays of bird seed are placed on special wooden platforms to feed the gardens’ avian visitors.

On the west side of the central gardens, visitors will find the Purdha Garden consisting mostly of roses, but also other fragrant flowers like jasmine.

At either end of the main garden, terrace gardens grow on a slightly elevated level; each terrace garden has a sentry post and a gazebo.

The Mughal Gardens are also home to an extensive bonsai collection.

Nehru Park

Named for India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, this park occupies more than 32 hectares of land near the centre of New Delhi.

Concerts are held here every Sunday morning, as is the city’s yearly Bhakti Festival.

Nehru Park is home to a swimming pool, a snack bar, and a life-sized statue of Vladimir Lenin, installed in November 1987.

Members of the Communist Party of India gather here each year to celebrate Lenin’s birthday.

The best time to visit Nehru Park is in the spring, when its many beautiful flowers are blooming.

Look out for the small rocks inscribed with quotes from Nehru himself.

Take advantage of the free morning yoga classes offered here.

If you’re planning a holiday to New Delhi, you must consider visiting some of the city’s beautiful and historic parks and gardens.

Go for a stroll, enjoy a yoga class and take in some of India’s historical architecture in one of New Delhi’s many green spaces.

How to Travel Green through India

Travel Green through India – Planning any trip is hard, but it becomes even more difficult when you’re trying to visit a very large country where you don’t know how to identify the most sustainable options.

You want to see everything there is to see, while helping to preserve their natural resources.

Here are just a few ways that you can make your trip to India as green travel as possible.

Where to Stay While Travel Green through India

If you’re looking into traditional lodgings for your India vacation, you have a few options.

First is the Indian luxury hotel chain, ITC Hotels.

Their website totes a focus on renewable energy, recycling, and maintaining green hotels with a concept they like to call “Responsible Luxury.”

Additionally, they have an agricultural business that works with farmers to outsource their products, and provides technological resources.

Their hotels are located in Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, and more, so you have plenty of options to choose from as you travel.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are alternative lodging options available.

Home Stays are a great way to go for a number of reasons:

They’re generally cheaper than hotels, create an experience that is less tourism and more native exploration, and, because you are functioning within the rules of someone else’s home, are overall much greener than hotels.

Other options include lodging camps, eco-lodges, eco resorts, and more.

Take into account what kind of experience you want to have, how many people you’re traveling with, and the distance from the place you’re staying to the attractions you want.

Sometimes, these attractions are a part of your accommodations.

For example, at Kanha National Park in Manji Tola, there is a “safari lodge” where visitors can stay.

What to Do in India

Those who want to visit eco-friendly outdoor attractions are in luck, as India’s beautiful landscape offers a plethora of options.

From wildlife excursions to national parks in Gujarat India to tribal tours, there is always a sustainable way to spend your day.

Eco tours are a great way to experience the nature of India without harming the environment, and they provide a unique look at the culture of the country.

For the thrill-seeker, there are even more exciting ways to see India. Eco adventures will get your heart racing while you take in the sights with activities like kayaking and biking.

Of course, there is something for every age and physical ability, so if amusement parks and festivals are more your kind of adventure, you’ll have plenty of options as well.

There are so many places to explore and so much culture to absorb, chances are you’ll have a hard time narrowing it down.

The cows are holy in India and are allowed to be anywhere.

This one is hanging out with the sunbathers at the beach.

How to Get Around in India

Planning out what you want to see and do ahead of time is important, so that you can cut down on travel that is harmful to the environment.

While it is probably necessary to fly into India internationally, with enough time and resources, you will find there are many options to get around within the country in a green fashion.

There are a number of creative ways to get from place to place in a big city, so if you’re up for it, look into trying those out first.

Bike tours and travel are fairly popular, although there are a number of safety concerns to take into account, especially in big cities.

If you’re not an experienced biker, you may want to consider short trips with a group lead by a professional.

Options for bike tours can be expensive, but it’s a unique and very sustainable way to see as much of India as possible.

The jungle was full of greedy monkeys choking down as many bananas as they could fill their mouths with.

The sad thing is that during the rain season when tourists stop coming, the monkeys haven’t learned how to get their own food, and many starve.

When considering how to travel long distances or just get from place to place within a city, you’ll want to look into the metro and railroad systems.

The larger cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai have urban railway systems, and there are trains that run between cities and across the country as well.

Taking a train is a great way to see the country while seated comfortably, as well as the cheapest (and greenest) way to travel overnight.

There are many ways that you can leave India as beautiful as it was when you arrived.

Use these suggestions as a starting point, and be flexible when it comes to planning your vacation.

Go out and experience this vast country for yourself.

Guide To The Golden Triangle, India

One of the most memorable trips I’ve done in India was the Golden Triangle, a triangular route between Delhi, Agra and Jaipur – some of the most interesting cities in Northern India.

It was a unforgettable experience, and while it’s definitely possible to do the trip on your own, I enjoyed the tour and managed to see so much more in a short period of time than I normally would.

Tours to the Golden Triangle in India, so if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands I recommend taking a tour instead.

From colourful cities, royal palaces and vibrant markets and bazaars, the Golden Triangle in India really gives travelers a good dosage of culture, tradition, history and beauty…

Delhi, City Of Seven Capitals

Said to be one of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is a melting pot of the past and present, chaos and order, wealth and poverty.

Exploring the city is an overwhelming but incredible experience.

There have been at least seven major capital cities around the present-day Delhi (the first dating back at least 3,000 years!), giving the city its nickname as the “city of seven capitals”.

The most popular attraction in Delhi is the Red Fort, a beautiful sandstone fort with several unique buildings, all with their own stories to tell.

Delhi has many beautiful buildings, monuments and museums to visit, but one of my favorites was the Gurudwara Sis Ganj, an important Sikh place of worship.

It’s an oasis of peace and calm away from the chaotic streets of Old Delhi, and the complex is very beautiful.

Finally, another must-see is Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, and known as one of the 7 wonders of India.

Wandering the streets of Delhi and exploring the differences of the New vs Old part of the city is a great way to soak up the culture and way of life of the people living there.

If your Newmarket Holidays tour allows you some spare time in the evening, I highly recommend a shopping spree at one of the shopping malls in Delhi!

Agra, City of The Taj Mahal

Agra’s main attraction may very well be the most famous and recognizable attraction in the whole of India: Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal is unique and beautiful in every way, from its romantic and touching story to the changing colors that are said to signify the changing moods of a woman; like a jewel, the Taj Mahal changes from pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening and golden by moonlight.

Built by the Muslim Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631 and 1654 as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, it’s an amazing piece of Mughal architecture.

Another beautiful place to visit in Agra is Agra Fort, a red sandstone fort where Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal, was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb, from which he had a view of the building erected for his deceased wife.

Shah Jahan is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a tower with a beautiful marble balcony.

There is a secret room called the “mirror chamber” which most people aren’t really supposed to see, but if you get the chance I highly recommend you bribe the guard 😉 to let you in so you can see the incredibly beautiful bathroom, decorated by thousands of tiny mosaic mirrors, that sparkle from the light of the candles the guard holds when circling the room.

Finish the afternoon at one of the many rooftop restaurants with views overlooking the city and the milky white Taj Mahal.

Jaipur, The Pink City

Walking through Jaipur’s markets and bazaars is a chaotic but fantastic experience, with stalls selling everything from spices and teas to colorful saris, bags and jewelry, and the odd ox cart passing by next to you.

Jaipur is nicknamed the pink city because of its colorful pink buildings, which were originally painted this color to imitate the red sandstone architecture of Mughal cities.

The present earthy red color originates from repainting of the buildings undertaken for a visit by the Prince of Wales in 1876.

Pink is traditionally a color associated with hospitality, so it was the perfect color to welcome the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) to the city.

The tradition has been maintained and today all residents in the old city are compelled by law to preserve the pink color.

In Jaipur, make sure to visit Janta Mantar, a UNESCO world heritage site and an observatory built in the 18th century with devices to measure time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars etc.

You’ll also find a collection of 12 zodiac sign instruments.

Depending upon the current zodiac sign the relevant instrument can be used.

Another really fascinating place to visit is the Hawa Mahal, a part of the City Palace where the royal ladies could observe the everyday life of the streets on the outside from its 950 windows without being seen.

The cooling breeze that passes through the windows gave the building its nickname “Palace of Winds”.

There are many in India who need help – dogs often seem to be forgotten when it comes to this.

Fortunately, there are rescue center who dedicate all their time to help street dogs.

This one has just been picked up and taken to the Animal Rescue Center in Goa.

Exploring The Colors And Flavors Of Rajasthan

India is a country full of life, delicious food and colorful places – some, however, are more colorful than others.

The Rajasthan state of India is especially colorful, with several cities nicknamed for its bright painted buildings, as well as others known for its delicious sweets and romantic atmosphere…

Jodhpur – The Blue City

Looking out over the city from the ramparts of Mehrangarh fort it’s easy to see why Jodhpur is known as the Blue City:

most houses are painted in different shades of blue – especially in the north side of the town called Brahmpuri.

This is something the locals are very proud of, but if you were to ask them why the houses are blue, they usually respond by saying it keeps the buildings cool during summer (the city is also famous for its sunny days, giving it a second nickname: the Sun City).

The real reason, however, is said to be that the area is infested with termites, and the insects damaged and destroyed the traditional building techniques where the exteriors were coated with lime wash.

They realized that by adding copper salt into the lime washes, the insects stayed away.

Under certain conditions, copper solutions produce blue compounds, hence the blue buildings.

The Brahmin class could afford this copper solution, which is why some believe that they painted the buildings blue to emphasize their royal connection, as blue is associated with wealth and royalty – who knows, maybe it’s a bit of both?

Bikaner – City of Sweets

If you have a sweet tooth, like me, you would love Bikaner.

Famous for its Indian sweets, this is a city where you can truly indulge in sweets and snacks all day long.

Make sure you try the Kesar Kulfi, Gujiya and Bhujia while you’re there.

Other reasons to visit Bikaner is its old havelis (Indian mansions) and to go on camel safaris in the desert.

The camel safaris here are less touristy than in Jaisalmer, and the city is known for the best riding camels in the world.

They even hold a camel festival each January with camel performances, races and of course special sweets made from camel’s’ milk.

The festival begins with a procession from the Junagarh fort, where the camels are decorated in typical Rajasthani attires and colorful saddles.

Finally, it’s also worth checking out the Karni Mata temple we wrote about last week in our article about “Indian festivals you don’t want to miss”.

Jaipur – The Pink City

Jaipur has been nicknamed the “pink city” because of its distinctly colored sandstone buildings, and of course there is also a story behind why they’re all pink.

In 1876, Maharaja Ram Sing decided to paint the entire city in pink, the traditional color for hospitality, as a gesture to welcome the Prince of Wales to the city.

The tradition continued, and today all residents in the old town are obliged by law to preserve the pink color.

There are plenty of hotels in Jaipur, and if you’re planning to stay overnight you will have the opportunity to see the city in the sunset when the colors are even more intense.

Udaipur – City of Lakes 

Nicknamed Venice of the East (like many other cities in the east), Udaipur is commonly considered to be the most romantic city of India.

The charming old & new town has three interconnected lakes; the Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola and Swaroop Sagar Lake.

Add forts, palaces, lush gardens, the Aravalli Mountains and temples and you can understand why people think it’s so romantic.

Jaisalmer – The Golden City

Finally, you have Jaisalmer, or The Colden City, as it’s often called, referring to the yellow sandstone buildings the city is made up of that take on a distinct golden glow in the afternoon sunlight.

The Rajmahal Fort and temples of Jain and Laxminath are the main attractions in Jaisalmer, along with the nearby desert and its camel safaris.

The interior of the Fort is amazing, but when the sun sets the best way to see it is from the outside, as the walls turn into honey-gold by the sun rays, adding to the desert fairytale ambiance of the city.

Getting Wet in the wettest place on Earth: Cherrapunjee

Being soaked alone is cold.

Being soaked with your best friend is an adventure.

As another weekend of travel with Nids and Dris came to an end, I am reminded of these very lines from Emily Wing Smith.

Three days of trekking around the gorgeous hills and valleys of this village, drenched in the fury of the Cherrapunjee rain is an apt reminder to why this land is known as the wettest place on earth.

And had it not been for the good company my best friend, I would have not been able to experience the panoramic beauty of the deep gorges and roaring yet amazing waterfalls of Cherrapunjee.

Cherrapunjee facts first

To reach Cherrapunjee or Sohra as it is locally known, you need to first take a flight to Shillong, the capital of Meghalya, situated in the north-east part of India.

90 minute drive after than through the scenic roads of Shillong is all you need to reach this part of world.

For tourists, the best time to visit for all the outdoor and adventure activities would be in the winter season between the month of November and February.

Standing 486,9 ft above sea level, it receives rains for eight months between March and October with 50% of it pouring in June and July. November to February it is completely dry.

In Between 1973-2012 (40 years), the average rainfall at Cherrapunjee stood at 11,859.4mm or 39.90 feet or 466.90 inches.

That’s close to  4 story tall building

Fun part of Cherrapunjee

Our heart was set to travel in the month of June to witness and experience the rain gods at their best.

However, detractors advised us against it and wanted us to travel during the winters like everyone else.

For anyone like them, we have only a few words to say.

“What fun is to visit the wettest place on earth in the driest month of the year?

Come and experience nature’s beauty by getting soaked in the glorious rain of Cherrapunjee”

So off we went packed with our raincoats and precautionary meds just in case of an emergency.

Nohkalikai Falls

Words cannot justify my experience of the Nhkalikai falls.

On the first day of our visit a naughty set of clouds decided to not let us witness one of the longest drops in world (1100 ft height).

Luckily on the second day we laid our eyes on one of the most spectacular falls in this region.

Do not forget to ask the locals for the story attached to Nokhalikai Falls

“Splendid”

Nohsngithiang Falls

The seven sister waterfalls as it’s fondly called, is about 20 kms from Sohra.

Stay a night here and be mesmerized by the rains playing with the clouds at your feet and feel the calmness of the falls standing right under it to transport your soul to a heavenly abode.

“Captivating Beauty”

Dain-Thlen Falls

A great place to visit especially during the monsoon, there is a legendary story attached to it.

Find the story yourself and explore the nature’s love for all things on this planet

“Nature’s Canvas”

Mawsmai Cave

When it’s about caves, it’s always fun. In Mawsmai caves control your excitement, mind your head and wear your shoes to navigate through the low passages of the cave.

Discover the various contours of the cave and feel every bit of it’s narrow lanes.

“Fun”

There are dozens of other things to do and see in Cherrapunjee which I will leave up-to you to discover and experience it just like we did.

However I have saved the best for the last, the unique and one of a kind Living Root Bridge of Cherrapunjee.

Living Root Bridges

The one thing you should not miss here is the living root bridges grown over 10-15 years from the roots of rubber trees.

Generations after Generations have passed on to their children the knowledge of creating these bridges by guiding the tree’s roots to grow across the river or ravine.

With some as old as 500 years, each of these bridges can hold up to 50 people at the same time and can grow up to 30 meters long.

You should also visit the Double-Decker Root Bridge in Umshiang which is

“Fascinating”

What to buy

Cane and Bamboo handicrafts are a must buy from Cherrapunjee.

During the orange season, you will not only find the sweetest oranges you have ever had in your life but you can also pack in bottles of the famed orange honey.

Another must buy is the famed Meghalaya tea

Spices like cinnamon, pepper are also available in plenty if you find you’re calling in food as well.

What to Eat

The local cuisine of any place on this planet should be experienced.

So devour down the pork and rice along with famed Sohra Pulao (vegetable rice).

What you must do

TREK!! TREK!! TREK!! And Trek away!!

So don’t wait and visit Cherrapunjee this tiny hamlet for that heavenly walk with the clouds and to get WET like you should!

Sweets You Must Try While Visiting Kolkata

I am not a sweet speaking chap but at times, I can be deceptive.

There is a reason behind it, Kolkata boys are naturally so sweet that when they cry, instead of tears, chasni (the sweet syrup of Rosogolla) flows.

This is not to my credit; this is the kamaal (miracle) of the sweets we eat here in Kolkata.

Whenever I am travelling to another city, another country, or another continent, the highest number of requests comes for Kolkata sweets.

Let’s not brag, we are simply the king of sweets, period.

In Kolkata, the Indian state of West Bengal, you will always find Haldiram.

They are a major manufacturer of Indian sweets and snacks.

There are other big names from North India also, each trying to gain a foothold.

We do taste them out, only when we want a change of taste.

Otherwise, why would a Bengali, the inventor of Rosogolla, Sandesh and Mishti Doi even want to eat anything else?

Let me be at my sweetest best and educate you on which sweets you should try out and where exactly to eat them.

While the former is available on a few Yatra blogs and travel guides, the latter is from me, exclusively!

Rosogolla

Those white, floating, spongy delights which Adam brought with him from heaven and handed the recipe over to a Bengali called KC Das.

Since then, this is the most popular sweet of Bengal and it is as omnipresent as God himself, probably.

Every sweet seller in Kolkata would demonstrate his collection at the front because that is what a Bengali would ask for, before anything else.

You would know a good Rosogolla immediately.

It should be floating on the syrup, not sitting at the bottom.

KC Das is still available, rather his descendants are, and they have outlets all over Kolkata.

If you are staying at any of the hotels in park street Kolkata, ask the manager, and he can guide you to the nearest one.

Eat it anytime, anywhere and watch the Bengalis eating it to learn how not to spill the syrup on yourself.

Sandesh

This is probably what Eve smuggled out of heaven, during her expulsion.

Another Bengali sweet seller, Bhim Nag, invented it and since then, it competes with Rosogolla for the first place on a Bengali’s eating list.

This white, somewhat dry and delicious sweet comes in multiple variations, something which Rosogolla lacks.

You can find these — listed below. Nowadays, there are new flavors also coming out.

• makha sandesh
• kalakand sandesh
• norompak sandesh
• kadapak sandesh
• milkcake

If you want sandesh at its purest best, go for either norompak sandesh or makha sandesh.

Unlike Rosogolla which is best eaten warm, Sandesh should be cold or, at least, room temperature.

Bhim Nag (his descendants) has multiple outlets all over the city and you will find one near your hotel in Kolkata surely.

Mishti Doi

Sweet curd… only we Bengalis know how to make curd.

It’s naturally sour and sweet; we have perfected this art over the years.

Sweet curd, from a good seller, will simply melt in your mouth.

Just put the spoon in your mouth and feel the bliss.

Sweet curd comes in some variations, Payodhi being one of the popular ones.

However, if payodhi tastes too sweet for you, stick to the pure and unadulterated Mishti Doi.

While you can eat it anytime and anywhere, it is the best when it’s cooled in a freezer and served after a hearty lunch.

Not only it tastes good, but it is also a good digestive.

However, avoid Doi after dinner because it might make you cough.

There are several sellers all over the city but I visit Jadab Das at Jhamapukur.

This shop is not mentioned in the Kolkata tour guides of MakeMyTrip or Goibibo or the likes but it is listed on Google.

Lord Chamcham

Ask me not how the Lord came in the name for I shall have no answer!

However, this sweet is somewhat a culmination of two pieces of art, Rosogolla and Mishti Doi.

These finger shaped sweets have a base which is much like Rosogolla but much, much softer and porous.

Then there is a thick layer of lassi or concentrated milk all around the sweet.

This layer carries multiple favoring spices and you would enjoy this sweet and thank me for telling you of this.

Tour guides of Kolkata on Yatra or similar sites often forget to mention this.

Sitabhog – Mihidana

This is a special mention because this is not exactly a Kolkata sweet but it originated in Burdwan.

However, several Kolkata sweet shops sell the excellent quality of Sitabhog and Mihidana.

Made from the flour of a special variety of rice, Sitabhog is white and often looks like the broken ends of your favorite Maggie.

Mihidana is a micro-copy of Bundi (you know what that is, right?) and saffron in color.

While sold separately, mix them and eat them. You will forget all your worries.

Part of the experience of travel is eating what the locals eat.

When visiting Kolkata, be sure to try these variety of sweets. You will be easily immersed in an authentic experience.

You’ll have fun choosing which are your favorites.

(photo credit: 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 : 1 – 2 – 3 – 2, 3, 4, 5 : 1 – 2 – 3 – 1 –  2 – 3 – 4 )