The Peaceful and Beautiful Place

 Hill Station of Dharamshala- The Peaceful and Beautiful Place

Dharamshala is a lovely hill station in kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, between Dhauladhar ranges. It is not only a natural beauty that people know of this place but also spiritual and cultural heritage.. Dharamshala is the place of nature and small adventure and in case you desire peace, then Dharamshala would be the best place.

Himalayas View

Upper Dharamsala (McLeod Ganj) and Lower Dharamsala are the two divisions of the city of Dharamsala. Tibetan culture is centered at Mcleod Ganj, often known as Little Lhasa. It is also the official home of Dalai Lama who is the spiritual leader of Tibet. This is where you will experience a different spiritual vibe.

Monastery

Tibetan Museum, Tsuglagkhang Complex and Namgyal Monastery are available in McLeod Ganj. Sitting in the monastery and feeling the peace or connecting spiritually with the prayer wheels, all these will rejuvenate you internally.

Dharamshala is the heaven of nature lovers. Bhagsu Waterfall is located in a short trek, you can rest under the nature. There is also Bhagsunag Temple which is also of religious importance. And in case you like a little adventure, then you cannot miss the Triund Trek. The journey to Triund is a memorable one and one gets the sight of snow-clad mountains and valleys. It is even more fun to go camping here at night.

Dharamshala is the home to the Tibetan culture. This place will offer you an opportunity to taste the real Tibetan cuisine such as momos, thupka and butter tea. The travel experience is made even more unforgettable by wandering around the cafes and the streets of McLeod Ganj, doing some shopping, and purchasing handmade artefacts of Tibet.

Buddhist Temple

Here you will also get yoga and meditation retreats where individuals visit to relax their minds and body. As a health resort, Dharamshala is now a popular place.

Besides the trekking, one also has the opportunity of doing paragliding in the nearby areas such as at Bir-Billing which is one of the globally renowned paragliding destinations.

Mall Road

Dharamshala has good weather all the year round. The best time to visit is between the months of March to June and September to November. Snow is also observed during winter and in particular the months of December-January.

Dharamshala Cricket Stadium 

Dharamshala is the place where one can find appropriate mix of nature, spirituality and adventure. The experience of any traveler in this place is unique. Be it a solo traveller, a couple, or someone who has travelled with family - there is something to offer to everybody in Dharamshala. It is then that you must add Dharamshala to your travel bucket list the next time you travel!

Hill Station In Nilgiri

 Udhagamandalam or Ooty is a beautiful hill station located in Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu. The region is famous due to its cool climate, green cover and tranquility.  This is a famous tourist destination of South India and the place is visited by thousands of visitors annually.

Village In Ooty

Ooty is also called the Queen of hill stations. It is the summer getaway of the British in the British era. British people would come here to avoid heat. Their abandoned bungalows, gardens and colonial buildings are still visible in the culture even now.

Ooty Lake is the most renowned spot of Ooty. It is an artificial lake in which people take pleasure to boat. This lake is an ideal picnic place surrounded by greenery all around. It has also a small amusement park along the lake where children play.

Toy Train Ooty

The Botanical Garden is one of the most popular places which was established in 1847. It has rare flowers, exotic plants and a 20 million years old fossil tree. Here is a flower show every year in the month of May, at which a great variety of flowers are exhibited.

Ooty is the highest peak known as Doddabetta peak. You can get a panoramic view of Nilgiri Hills here.. It is a special experience to watch the sunset and the sunrise here in clear weather.

Tree Plantation of Ooty

The best thing about Ooty is to come there through the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. It is a UNESCO site of world heritage. The train is a narrow gauge train which passes through the jungle, waterfalls and tunnels between Mettupalayam and Ooty. It is memorable in all the moments of the train journey.

Food lovers also have a good place in Ooty. Home made chocolates, tea (especially eucalyptus and masala chai) and south Indian food are very common here. The local markets will offer woolen clothes, essential oils and handmade goods.

In the event that you are an adventure lover, the jungles and the hills surrounding Ooty are the best places to take treks, camping and nature walks. There are other attractions that can be visited around it and this includes Coonoor, Pykara Lake and Avalanche Lake.

Avalanche Lake

Ooty is a cool place all time of the year and the most appropriate time to visit the place is between March and June.  This is even more romantic during winters when the entire city is covered by fog in the morning.

Morning View Ooty

Finally, one can say that Ooty is one of those places where you have both nature and peace. In case you wish to have a break from your hectic urban life, then Ooty is an ideal holiday retreat to unwind yourself- whereby each corner has a new story to tell.

A trip to a Fantastic Hill Station

 Gangtok - A trip to a Fantastic Hill Station

Gangtok is a great place to visit in case you are a lover of mountains, would like to breathe fresh air and would like to have a little peace in life. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim is a nice and clean hill station in North-East India, where one is bound to get a unique vibe of the place as a tourist. It is a spectacular combination of nature, spiritual sites, adventure and modernity.

Gangtok City

The beginning of the Journey

The closest airport to Gangtok is the Bagdogra (West Bengal) and you can get to Gangtok after a 4-5 hours road trip. The road trip is a bit lengthy, but the sceneries are beautiful to the extent that you will not feel tired. On the way you are able to observe green hills, waterfalls and zigzagging roads which make the journey more memorable.

Heart of the City- MG Road

MG Road is the major attraction in Gangtok. It is a traffic-free, lively and fresh market street where the visitor can have a good time shopping, local cuisine and photography. The evening stroll here is very refreshing. MG Road is similar to a European street because of cafes, local shops, handicrafts and colorful lights.

Mall Road

Paradise to the Nature and Adventure Lovers

Gangtok is not only a hill station, but also the adventurous city. Here you can have a ride in a cable car where you see the entire city in bird-eye view. The scene of snow-capped mountain viewed at Tashi View Point is awesome particularly in the morning. In case you prefer trekking, you may visit the Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary or see the nearby trails.

Spiritual vibes and Monasteries

Monastery In Gagntok

Gangtok is a spiritual place. It has a must-visit place, its Rumtek Monastery, the largest monastery in the state of Sikkim. It has calm moods and Buddhist chants that calm your heart. Do Drul Chorten Stupa and Enchey Monastery are also very popular religious objects where people go to get a peace of mind.

Fresh Water Lake 

Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass- Goft of nature

The trip to Gangtok is not complete without the visit to the Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake. Nathula is a dream destination that is located on the India-China border and is a snow lover destination. Snow-covered mountains, cold air and the presence of soldiers make an impression of pride and excitement. Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) is a glacial lake located at high altitude and the lake is frozen in winter and the clear water of the lake in summer reflects the mountains.. Riding a yak around the lake is also a good activity.

Nathula Pass

Local Food- Sikkim Food

And once you are in Gangtok, don not miss the delicious Sikkimese food. Momos are the most famous, naturally, but there are other specialties to taste, like thukpa (noodle soup), phagshapa (pork dish), and gundruk (fermented leafy green). You are in a mood of street food or wish to see the posh cafes, Gangtok has got something to serve every foodie.

Red Panda In Sikkim

Weather

Gangtok offers every type of stay options ranging between budget and luxury. There are homestays to 5-star hotels. The climate is favourable, cool during summers and a bit cold in winters. The landslides in monsoon season (JulyAugust) should be avoided.

Gangtok - Must visit it

Gangtok is a destination where every age of travelers likes. It presents an alternative experience in terms of its purity, hospitality and natural beauty. If you are a solo traveler, couple or traveling with family, Gangtok will touch your heart no matter what.

Jewel of Rajsthan

In case you feel that Rajasthan is only known due to its desert, palace and heat, then you need to visit Mount Abu once. The only hill-station of Rajasthan is Mount Abu, located in Aravalli Hills and this is a refreshing surprise literally!

Mount Abu is about 1,220 meters high, because of which the weather in this place is cool and pleasant all year round. During summer days when the weather of other cities of Rajasthan becomes hot and the temperature rises to 45 degrees then the cool breeze of rain and mild weather of Mount Abu is something different kind of enjoyment. That is why Mount Abu has become an ideal summer retreat as a vacation spot.

View Of Mount Abu

The first tourist attraction that you should not miss is Nakki Lake. Here you may go boating or have a lakeside stroll. The view and air here is very romantic in the evening.

Nakki Lake

Most attractive palace of Mount Abu is Dilwara Temples. Mount Abu: Jewel of the Rajasthan Hill Station They are the Jain temples and the marble carving is so delicate that you will be surprised after looking at them. The construction of these temples took place during the 11 th century -13 th century. The craftsmanship and the detailing here is the world-known. And in case you are fond of architecture, then this is a treasure trove to you.

Dilwara Temples

Nature lovers cannot miss out Guru Shikhar. It is the topmost point of Mount Abu and you can have a panoramic view of the entire Aravalli range through this point. It requires some walking to get to the top but once the peak is achieved, then all the hustle is forgotten.

Guru Shikhar

In case you like wildlife then do not forget to visit Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary. Here you are able to observe rare animals such as leopard, sloth bear, Indian civet. It is also bird-watcher paradise.

Mount Abu is also full of spirituality. Brahma Kumaris Ashram is a spiritual organization which is known all over the world and many people visit it in order to get peace and to meditate.

At night Mount Abu is even more beautiful. You may take a cup of coffee in one of the local cafes and walk around the Nakki Lake. The individuals here are also very kind and friendly, an aspect that makes the experience of every traveler even better.

Therefore, in case you are planning to visit Rajasthan, then do not overlook Mount Abu. This is the ideal place which combines nature, history, spirituality and adventure. Be it a single traveler, a couple or a family trip, Mount Abu certainly has something to offer to everybody.

Golden City

Jaisalmer is a very good place to enjoy the real beauty and culture of Rajasthan which is famous as the Golden City and is situated in the middle of Thar desert. You get to experience the authentic culture and cuisine of Rajasthan here.

Aerial View Of Jaisalmer 

Places to Visit

Jaisalmer Fort 

The golden-yellow sandstone is used to build this fort in the center of the whole city. The fort continues to be inhabited by people and it is also a World Heritage Site as declared by UNESCO.

Jaisalmer Fort 

Haveli:

A collection of 5 independent havelis, known to be intricately carved and Rajasthani style of architecture.

Lake:

It is a great place to go boating during sunset. It is a quite calm place.

This is a good destination of desert safari, camel ride and Rajasthani folk dance. You are able to spend the night in the camp and experience the desert in its real sense.

Pavilions on Gadisar Lake

Kuldhara

A ghost town that was deserted by the people living there in the 19 th century. It has turned into a tourist destination.

Thar Desert

Best Time To Visit:

The most suitable time to go is between October and March.

Look online at discounts on camps and hotels.

In case you are going with a group of people, it will be shared.

Eat the local cuisine dal baati churma, Ker sangri and gatte ki sabzi are a must have!

Jaisalmer is the place where you can find history, adventure and culture in one place. Jaisalmer is an excellent choice in case you want to organize a cheap and short trip!

I can also make a tailor-made itinerary to you, in case you wish to have one.

A Piece of Paradise

Gulmarg A Piece of Paradise

In case you are a mountain lover, Gulmarg is a must-visit place on your list. This small hill station is a dream destination literally because it is at Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. Its name is Meadow of Flowers in itself, and this place narrates a different story with every season.

House Covered In Snow Gulmarg

Gulmarg is only a 1.5-2 hours drive away from Srinagar making the road trip an adventure of its own. On each side of the road, the pine trees are tall, there are small villages in between, and when the mountains are covered with snow, it seems that you have got inside a postcard.

Winter Wonderland

During the period of December to March, Gulmarg becomes a snow paradise. The Gulmarg Gondola is the main attraction here It is one of the highest cable cars in the world. It takes you to the Apharwat Peak where the sight of the snow capped Himalayas is mind blowing. In case you are interested in skiing or snowboarding, this is the right place to do it, it is suitable both to the person who does it first time and to a professional one.

Gulmarg During Summer

Summers are not less either

During summer when the snow melts, Gulmarg literally becomes a blossoming meadow. There are wild flowers, of all colours. You may golf here at one of the highest golf courses of the world, or trekking, horse riding and mountain biking. This is an ideal time of the year to nature lovers.

Cultural and Food of the Locals

Gulmarg is not only adventure but also spiritual and cultural place. Here you have to visit St. Mary Church and Maharani Temple. Local residents are very hospitable and are friendly.

And speaking of food, Kashmiri food is the star in this case. You have to taste Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Haak Saag and traditional Kashmiri Kahwa in small restaurants that provide a home like feeling. Hot kahwa in the cold is yet another fun!

People Riding Horse 

Stay Options

In case you are interested in luxury, The Khyber Himalayan Resort is an ultimate choice- with indoor heated pool and spa. However, even when you are on a budget, there are many comfortable guesthouses and homestays that will make you feel like you are at home under the blanket and having hot food.

Scenic View Of Gulmarg 

Photo Lovers Heaven

Gulmarg is a work of art in each frame, so in case you need Instagram or travel vlogs, Gulmarg is the place to go. It is all picture perfect, sunrise, snowfall, pony ride, or casual interaction with local people.

Gulmarg is not a place it is an emotion. It is beautiful in all seasons and each time you fall in love with this place.

Therefore, pack up again to visit another place and this time we will go to Gulmarg- where everything is a story itself

A Paradise Journey

 Ladakh A Paradise Journey

In case you ever feel like being close to nature, then you must visit Ladakh at least once. This is not a destination, it is an experience: snow-capped mountains, blue sky, open horizon and a peace, which is impossible to find anywhere. Ladakh is a region of Jammu & Kashmir, it is now known as Ladakh Union Territory. It is a perfect combination of the clouds which spread and the silence under them.

Ladakh  View

Journey

Ladakh is accessible through two most popular means of transport by air and road. In case you choose to travel by air, you can conveniently reach it through Leh Airport, but the adventure of a road trip is another story. Manali-Leh highway or Srinagar-Leh highway-both are full of breath-taking views. Your journey is filled with open roads, curvy roads and snow capped mountains.

Each corner in Ladakh is a postcard. First, visit the Leh city. Its Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa are an ideal combination of calmness and history.

Night View

Then there is Nubra Valley- where one can see double humped camels and there is a special experience of cold desert in between sand dunes. Another attraction here is the Diskit Monastery.

And how shall we forget Pangong Lake? This lake will be in the bucket list of everyone after watching the movie 3 Idiots. Its pale blue water and the crystal clear water as well as its changing colors are bewitching for any visitor.

Dramatic Landscape of Pangong Lake, Ladakh

Tso Moriri Lake and Hemis Monastery are also quite relaxing places where spiritual energy is perceived.

Ladakhi are quite simple and non violent. You will find the strong influence of Buddhism all around. Local festivals such as Hemis Festival are very lively- full of colorful dressing, masked dances and local music.

Ladakhi Women

Speaking of food, momos and thukpa are most famous. Butter tea (similar to milk tea) is a bit off in the taste, but it is worth trying in Ladakh. The experience also involves chatting with the locals and knowing their culture.

Traveler tips

Altitude Sickness- Ladakh is extremely high and therefore, you need to rest once you reach there. Do not go on the road without acclimatization. In June you might require a sweater.

Carry Cash -Not everywhere is there an option of card or UPI.

Be aware of local culture- do not forget to ask permission before taking photos at the monastery.

Finally…

Ladakh is where the body as well as the soul goes. Ladakh is a paradise to all the nature lovers, photography enthusiasts or even those who need a peaceful getaway. The panoramas here stick in your heart and mind forever.

Leh Road

Then build up your next travel program, prepare your bike or SUV… and head on to this Land of High Passes!

An Ideal Cocktail of Beaches, Bazaars and Bohemia

 Goa- An Ideal Cocktail of Beaches, Bazaars and Bohemia

In case you are a travel lover and you have not visited Goa then realize that you have missed out a big thing! Goa is not only a destination, it is a feeling, a small party, a small piece of peace and a small adventure. Let us proceed to this seashore paradise, where there is a new thing every round.

Beaches Of Goa

Heart winning beaches

Its beaches are the largest identity of Goa. The beaches in North Goa such as Baga, Anjuna and Calangute are noisy and the crowd, music and night life are a new kind of fun. South Goa also has peaceful and unpolluted areas such as Palolem, Colva and Butterfly beach which is ideal to couples or individuals who want some quiet time.

Morning beach walk, fresh sea food in shacks in the afternoon, evening sunset and beach side party in night, what more do you want?

Culture and heritage are special as well

Goa is not all about beaches. One can feel the Portuguese influence in every nook and cranny whether it is those old churches such as Basilica of Bom Jesus or the colourful Latin Quarter of Fontainhas.Goa is a place that will not disappoint you in case you like history and architecture.

Street and Local Bazaar Shopping

One can enjoy shopping at the local market like Anjuna flea market and Mapusa bazaar. Here you can find boho jewelry, colored clothes, spices, souvenirs and local handmade crafts. Bargaining is an experience and you should not forget it.

Goa Fish Market

It is a paradise to food lovers as well

Goan food, hot, delicious and unique to say the least. Fish curry rice, prawn balchao, bebinca, etc. are a must-try. Having a seafood platter and a cold beer sitting in local shacks or cafes, wow, what a combination!

Colorful Streets Of Goa

Vegetarians also have a choice, and the street food of Goa such as ros omelette and poi bread can not be missed.

Night life and Music Scene

Goa has a famous night life in the world. There are clubs such as Tito, Mambo or Curlies, which will provide you with the right amount of music, dancing and entertainment. However, in case you wish to have soft and chill music, live music cafes on the beaches or silent parties are also quite an option.

Goa Night Life

What do you learn on a trip to Goa?

Goa teaches you that it is good to slow down the life a bit. In this place, there is no time to know - no deadlines, no stress. It is simply you, a backpack and a love invitation by the nature.

White Church In Goa

Friends, the next time you are planning your vacations, do think of Goa. You may be on a solo trip, with your friends or family, Goa has got something to offer to all.

It is time to pack bags and forget the stress and go to Goa where every day is a festival!

The Blue City Of India

Jodhpur-Blue city of India

Being the center of the beautiful city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is a hot spot, where you can enjoy an absolute combination of culture, history and colours. Another name given to this city is the Blue City and upon scoping the full city through the vantage point of Mehrangarh Fort, every single house actually appears blue- a magical view indeed!

The antique significance of Jodhpur is very rich. This city was established in 1459 by Rao Jodha. Since that time up to date, Jodhpur has been a town with royal feel. Jodhpur is like a museum that is still alive, and this is just what you needed in case you have interest in history, architecture and Rajasthani life.

On your trip, begin at Mehrangarh Fort. This fort is constructed on the top of a hill and the entire Jodhpur can be seen through this. The fort has museums where you will be able to see clothes of kings, swords and other royal objects of olden times. You will marvel the majesty of the fort and carvings.

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Mehrangarh Fort

Immediately after your exit out of the fort, you can take a glimpse of the white marble memorial of Jaswant Thada, a very peaceful and beautiful shrine. The lakes and the gardens here create a relaxing feel. It is a dream location of the photography enthusiasts.

Busy Street Of Jodhpur

It is time to discuss the local markets of Jodhpur enter the Clock Tower and Sardar Market and experience the Jodhpur. Handicrafts here are very famous and so are the leheriya dupattas, bandhani sarees, the mojris etc. And the mat bhooli, the mirchi vada and the mawa kachori of Jodhpur; please do eat them, they are really delectable!

Jodhpur City View 

Wish to have another unconventional experience? Don not forget to visit the Jodha Desert Rock Park. It is a green park and is an epitome of the true beauty and flora-fauna of the desert. It is an unforgettable walk here in the early morning or in the evening.

One of the heritage hotels or havelis in Jodhpur is a royal experience to stay in the night. It is also possible to have a guided tour of Umaid Bhawan Palace that is now half hotel and half museum. This palace is very classy with the art-deco structure and beautiful gardens.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

Yes and in case you are after adventure, village safari is also good. You may also visit the local Bishnoi villages and get a feel of their life-style which is quite raw and real Rajasthan!

Conclusion:

Jodhpur is not a city but an experience. The food, the people, the colours and the streets will all move your heart here. Jodhpur is that destination that has got something special to offer to the individuals who are either alone or with family. Thus, when traveling next, do not leave Jodhpur out of your list of destinations.

Blue Houses Of Jodhpur 

A Pocket of France in the Middle of India

Pondicherry - A Pocket of France in the Middle of India

In case you are into beach mood, some French touch and calmness, then Pondicherry is your destination. It is a small city lying on the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu and is a flawless blend of French charm and Indian culture.

Sunset View 

Once you get to the White Town part of Pondicherry, you feel like you have crossed the Indian border and arrived in a European street. Clean streets, yellow and white colonial buildings, French cafes, etc. everything is Instagram-worthy.

Auroville- The Peace Home

The Auroville is the most unique experience of Pondicherry. It is an experimental township and people here belong to various corners of the world and lead a spiritual life. The greatest attraction of this place is Matrimandir, a meditation hall in the shape of a golden globe. It does not matter whether you are spiritual or not, but you have to visit this place.

Auroville

Living beaches

Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach and Serenity Beach - all beaches are different. Go for a morning walk to the Promenade, observe yoga classes with locals, and drink coffee and sit in front of the sea- ultimate peace.

Beach View

South Indian Tadka + French Food

Here, the cafes such as Caf de Arts, Coromandel cafe and Baker Street are a must-visit. French toast, croissants, and South Indian filter coffee, best combination! The street food is also fantastic and particularly in the evening around the Gandhi statue.

Shopping + Touch Local

In Auroville and Sunday markets, one can find handmade soaps, candles, organic skincare, and special souvenirs. Inexpensive and also environmentally friendly.

French Colony

Travel Tips:

The best time to visit: October to March

Hire a scooter- the city is small and it becomes easy to explore

You do not have to know French, but Bonjour is another type of fun.

And so in the case you want a quiet, artsy, seaside vacation, then Pondicherry must be there on your bucket list! Its leisurely tempo, smiling faces, and special atmosphere will make you back.