Jammu & Kashmir: Packages to promote ideal tourist destinations

 
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed on 13th of March ordered preparation of an all inclusive smart package to promote ideal tourist destinations in Jammu region of the state. An official statement issued in winter capital Jammu, after Sayeed chaired a high level meeting of the tourism department officials, said: “In a bid to promote exclusively the ideal tourist destinations of Jammu region, the Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today issued immediate directions to the Tourism Department to prepare an all inclusive smart package that focuses on increasing the occupancy levels and increasing footfall of nature tourists in the region.”

The chief minister said he will examine within two weeks the blueprint of the package, which will be prepared in consultation with the private tour and travel operators. In a bid to create another linkage to Jammu’s tourism potential, besides the huge influx of pilgrims that visit the holy Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine on a daily basis, the Chief Minister said there is an urgent requirement to target the region’s ideal and known locations like Sanasar, Bhaderwah, Patnitop, Sudhmahadev and Batote in the first phase.

The chief minister stated that the Tourism Conference showcasing the state’s three regions as one entity will be held at Patnitop later this month. The state tourism department should hold pre-conference discussions with all the stakeholders so that the meet becomes fruitful and result-oriented, Mufti said, adding that the aim of promotion of Jammu resorts is to optimally utilize the idle infrastructure and facilitate generation of employment opportunities for youth, the statement said.

“I have already expressed my desire to take back idle properties at known health resorts at Gulmarg and Srinagar and properly utilize unused infrastructure so that our intake capacity increases. These, however, remain interim measures. In long-term, we need to draw a map to develop high-end tourism infrastructure so that we cater to the requirements of overseas and domestic visitors,” the chief minister said and directed the minister for finance to take up the issue related to Centaur Lake View Hotel with the union Ministry of Finance.  He also directed the Director Tourism, Kashmir, to immediately start light and sound show at Shalimar Mughal Garden at Srinagar.

This story was originally published on travel.india.com. See it here

Hitchhiking – A traveler’s boon or bane?

 
Not so long time ago, we gave you some useful tips for hitchhiking. We’re sure those tips are still fresh in your mind, and so we thought it’s a great time to even bring up the pros and cons of hitchhiking. Hitchhiking refers to attaining a means of transportation by asking a ride from strangers, generally free of cost. Like every coin has 2 sides, hitchhiking too has its benefits and flaws. We have written about some pros and cons of hitchhiking below.

Pros

1. It is free, most of the times. It helps to save a lot of travel costs. Hence, it’s a cheaper way to travel.

2. It offers an opportunity to meet new people from different regions and religions, each with unique beliefs. So, you get a closer peek into numerous cultures.

3. It offers you freedom. Traveling without a schedule or an itinerary makes travelling much more fun.

Cons

1. Risk involved. Hitchhiking is unpredictable and can be dangerous.

2. Sometimes the wait gets too long. In some places, people are not hitchhiker-friendly and don’t stop their vehicles. This means waiting under the sun, rain or snow for hours or even days before hitching a ride.

Well, these are the major pros and cons of hitchhiking. Honestly, what’s life without some risk, right? While I think hitchhiking is worth it and it makes traveling more exciting, do tell us what you think!

This story was originally published on travel.india.com. See it here

Baisakhi

It is an occasion of dancing, singing, music, wearing of festive garments and religious praise. It falls on 13th or 14th of April every year. This festival majorly celebrated in Punjab, which is in North India to thank god for good harvest. Other than India it is also celebrated in United States, Canada, and United Kingdom. People visit Gurudwaras for Ardas (offer prayers). This festival is related to Sikhs tenth guru who organized the order of Khalsa panth on 1699.

Origination of Baisakhi

Baisakhi also known as Vaisakhi has been celebrated by Sikhs majorly. On 1699 the Tenth Guru Shri Guru Gobind Singh organizes the order of The Khalsa Panth. This Festival tells that how Sikhism arose in the context of cruel persecution from the Mughal rulers of India. It also shows the sacrifice and brotherhood, and of the emergence of the 'pure ones' (Khalsa). The terms Kaur (princess) and Singh (lion) are introduced, and the unity of believers is stressed.

How is Baisakhi Celebrated

People in India celebrate Baisakhi by dancing, singing, dressing in holiday finery. Farmers of the northern state of Punjab and Haryana celebrate the beginning of the Solar year after harvesting the winter crops. Men popular dance is Bhangra and women dance is Gidda to celebrate this event. During Baisakhi lots of Sikhs get together and organize Nagar Kirtan along the streets from one place to another in which they sing hymns from a sacred book of worship known as Guru Granth Sahib. People are dressed in their traditional dress. On the occasion educational institutions and major businesses are closed majorly in Punjab.

The Sikh religion commemorates the first five men who were called ‘Panj Piara’ or ‘Beloved Five’ by the guru. The Khalsa comprised with five symbols of ‘purity and courage’ called five K’s includes Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (comb), Katchehra (underwear), Karra (steel ring), and Kirpan (sword).

Events

In this event many activities are organized in the Gurudwaras. People get up early in the morning and wear new traditional clothes and prepare langar and Prasad. Gurudwaras are decorated with lights and flowers give a very wonderful look. The possession Nagar Kirtan moves through the various parts of the city. In the Nagar Kirtan some sikhs play Gatka, some sing hymns and some of them are just walking to show their faith towards god. Sikh people along their family take participate in this.

This story was originally published on travelguide-info.com. See it here

10 Travel tips for your first trip to India!

Are you travelling to India for the first time and are worried about what to expect and what not to? Or are you an Indian planning to take your first trip across your own country? Honestly, a trip through India is indeed incredible and being slightly worried is quite normal too. But you need not stress too much. Sometimes guidebooks give too much information which confounds a traveler. Here are 10 simple tips that you must keep in mind for your trip through India, and it’ll be a memorable one.

1. Check baggage weight and pack light

It’s essential to check the weight of your baggage before setting forth. Read all details about baggage rules set by the airlines you plan to fly with. Extra weight will cost you more. It’s better to pack light, especially if you plan to shop in India. You certainly don’t want to spend a bomb for extra baggage weight, do you?

2. Choose the right season

The climatic conditions in India can be extreme and they differ from state to state. While winters can be unbearably cold in North India, summers can be too hot in coastal areas like Goa and Chennai. So, it’s advisable to read about the weather conditions in the month you are planning to visit India. This will not only help you to pack rightly for the season, but will also help to choose the right destination to visit during that season.

3. Choose your route wisely

India is a vast and diverse country. It has beaches for partying and relaxing, mountains for trek enthusiasts, scenic landscapes for photography lovers and much more. Make a rough sketch of your route through India based on your likes and dislikes so that you can choose the wise route for your trip.

4. Plan, but don’t over plan

While it’s good to plan your trip through India, don’t go overboard with planning. You might find some places in India more appealing than others, and may want to extend your trip there, this is absolutely right, so be a lil flexible while planning.

5. Stay healthy

When one travels to another country, there are more chances of falling ill, as it takes time for your body to adjust to the change. But as the adage goes, prevention is better than cure. Visit a doctor before commencing your journey, take necessary vaccines and medicines that you might need. Also, avoid tap water and places that look unhygienic.

6. Don’t lose your cool

Like every other country, India too has its share of scams to offer to tourists and travelers. Taxi drivers, tour guides, fake travel agents are always looking for vulnerable newcomers. So, stay calm and deal with each situation peacefully. Be smart and tackle over-friendly helpers, as they could have hidden intentions of money-making.

7. Buy a pair of flip-flops

Trekking boots are a must for those planning on using them. But if you plan a visit to Madurai, the city of Temples and your trip aims on covering religious destination, buy a pair of slippers or easily removable sandals. In most religious places in India, you aren’t allowed to wear your shoes inside the premises. It is quite a pain to remove them and wear them, over and over again.

8. Bargain

Everything is bargain-able. Right from shoes, fruits, vegetables to hotel rooms, car rentals, clothes, accessories and much more. So, whenever you plan to buy something, try and bargain. Ideally, enquire with a local to know the right price before buying anything.

9. Carry all sanitary products

Don’t forget to be well-stocked with your sanitary products. There are some remote places in India where you won’t find a shop for miles together. Carry toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes and all other necessary products.

10. Avoid PDA in public places

While metropolitans in India are more modern, it is better if you avoid PDA in public places. It will not only garner unwanted attention but could also lead to serious issues in some places. Not everyone in India freaks out coz of PDA, but many Indians are conservative.

This story was originally published on travel.india.com. See it here

5 Things you must do when you head to Mahabaleshwar to beat the heat!

Mahabaleshwar is the largest hill station in the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra. It’s a favorite weekend getaway among Mumbaikars and Punekars, as it’s not that far, and offers the perfect serenity. As the heat has started to increase, more travelers will take to hill stations, Mahabaleshwar being quite the favorite, among people from Mumbai and Pune. So, if you are one of those who will be heading to Mahabaleshwar to beat the heat, here are 5 things that you must certainly do.

1. Watch sunrise and sunset

Make it a appoint to visit Wilson Point or Kate’s Point to watch a beautiful sunrise, and to Bombay Point or Elphinstone Point to see stunning sunsets.

2. Go trekking

There are numerous trekking trails in Mahabaleshwar, and awesome ones, we must say. You could ask the hotel or the locals about more details, and set off early. Pack food and you could have a lovely picnic amidst the woods.

3. Visit Tapola

Around 30 kms from Mahabaleshwar is Tapola. You can drive to Tapola and enjoy a scenic view. There are quite a few strawberry farms too, on the way.

4. Boating in Venna Lake

Venna Lake is a major tourist attraction in Mahabaleshwar. Surrounded by trees, it’s a pretty lake. You can spend a lazy day by opting for a boat ride over the lake.

5. Eat, drink and sleep

You will get delicious food in Mahabaleshwar. Strawberry with cream is a popular shake here that you mustn’t miss. Crowned with whipped cream, it’s a foodie’s delight.

If you need any help with regards to your trip to Mahabaleshwar, don’t hesitate to ask us!


This story was originally published on travel.india.com. See it here

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls are probably the most famous waterfalls in the world. Niagara Falls are actually three waterfalls which sit right on the border between the United States and Canada.The Falls drop on the highest spot from more than 50 meters and every minutes it conveys a little more than 110,000 Cubic meters of water on average.

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is a public space and tourist attraction in central London, built around the area formerly known as Charing Cross. It is situated in the City of Westminster

Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom Park, commonly known as Magic Kingdom, is the first-built of the four theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida, near Orlando, Florida. It opened on October 1, 1971.

National Mall and Memorial Parks

National Mall and Memorial Parks is an administrative unit of the National Park Service encompassing many national memorials and other areas in Washington, D.C.

Gangtok

Gangtok is a municipality, the capital and the largest town of the Indian state of Sikkim. It also is the headquarters of the East Sikkim district. Gangtok is located in the eastern Himalayan range, at an elevation of 1,650 m.

Times Square

Times Square is a major commercial intersection and a neighborhood in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. It is located at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, and stretches from West 42nd to West 47th Streets.

Hang Son Doong, Vietnam

Son Doong Cave is a cave in Phong Nha solutional-Ke Bang National Park, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam. As of 2009 it is the biggest known cave in the world, and is located near the Laos-Vietnam border.

Black Forest, Germany

The Black Forest is a great, forested mountain range in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwestern Germany. It is bounded by the Rhine valley to the west and south. Its highest peak is the Feldberg with an elevation of 1,493 metres

Patan Mahal, Rajasthan

The Himalayan, Himachal Pradesh

Viñales Valley, Cuba

Transfiguration Church, Kizhi, Russia

Standing Stone of Callanish

Semuc Champey, Guatemala

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Iceland

Portmeirion, Wales

Palais Ideal du Facteur Cheval, France

Ordesa Canyon, Spain

Mount Roraima, Venezuela

Meteora, Greece

Maelifell, Iceland

Kangaroo Island, Australia

Chapelle St-Michel d’Aiguilhe, France

Schwerin Palace, Schwerin, Germany