10 Incredible destinations you must visit in your lifetime!

Following a routine is a killer for your soul. Who doesn’t dream of traveling to different places and gaining new experiences and knowledge or do you want to spend your entire life in the same place you grew up in and see the same bunch of people every day and eat the same type of food you’ve always eaten? Because giving excuses to yourself for having no time and money isn’t good enough.

“The core of man’s spirit comes from new experiences” a famous dialogue from the movie ‘Into the Wild’ talks about the same thing; having new experiences. The world is a beautiful place and there are many natural and man-made beauties which you just cannot miss seeing. The world has many picturesque towns, beautiful beaches, museums, and many other incredible destinations which you should not miss before you die. 

Today I am going to discuss with you and suggest you 10 most incredible destinations which you can add to your bucket list.

1.Get off the grid at Venice, Italy– It is an ancient small town built on a lagoon. It is the most visited travel destination. It has the most number of bridges in the world and it is also famous for its canal routes; no wonder it’s why called ‘City of Canals’ & ‘ The floating City’. It is one of the most picturesque cities in Italy. You can easily get lost here while traveling as it’s mapped like a labyrinth. There are many hidden routes and shortcuts but all worth exploring. The cafes in Venice are just like any other cafe in Italy. You’ll find people mostly start their day standing at a bar where they drink coffee with croissants. This city is full of life adorned with stunning art and beautiful architecture.

2. See the coral life at The Great Barrier Reef, Australia – It’s the first coral reef system to be awarded World Heritage status. No wonder why it is one of the seven wonders of the world. There are more than 1500 species of fish. You can also spot Nemo too. Snorkeling and diving are the things tourists mostly come here for. It is one of the best experiences in the world.

3. Eye Capturing Cappadocia, Turkey–  The name is derived from a Persian word called katpaktukya meaning ‘the land of the beautiful horse’. Horses hold a special place in the lives of the people who live there. These locals also use horses as an alternative mode of transport for the tourists.  This place is like nowhere on earth. The main attractions are the stunning landscapes, the Goreme Cave Churches, underground cities and of course the hot air balloons. 

4. Mesmerising Meteora, Greece– Meteora meaning ‘ suspended in the air has earned its popularity from the vertical rocks which have turned and twisted with time into bizarre and yet beautiful rock formations. Here the monasteries which are placed atop these rocks appear as if they are hanging in the air like shown in fairytales. You can go to Meteora if you are looking for a relaxing getaway.

5. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia – Salar de Uyuni is located in Bolivia is one of the most beautiful and remarkable vistas of South America. It is the world’s largest salt flat area stretching more than 4050 square miles of Altiplano. To experience the breathtaking mirror effect most tourists visit this place in the rainy season which lasts from December to April. This is also a heaven for photographers as the endless horizon allows them to play with perspective and depth of field.

6. The magnificent Grand Canyon, US – This wonder of nature extends up to 277 miles. Here the tourists come from all over the globe to take part in a range of activities. The Grand Canyon also offers breathtaking panoramas and stunning sights. Tourists usually come here for hiking, experiencing the iconic mule trip, rafting, etc.

7. Aurora Australis – To see this is truly once in a lifetime experience thing. While we all know about the famous northern lights called the Aurora Borealis we hardly talk about the southern lights. These lights can only be viewed from the southern latitudes and can only be seen within a limit of a 30-degree latitude line. this phenomenon makes the sky look magical. There you will find the sky dancing in green and red light. 

8. The pyramid of Giza, Egypt – The pyramids have always been a mystery. People usually travel to visit the pyramid of Giza to travel back in time, to see Egypt’s beautiful landscapes and its vast deserts. The Egyptian civilization is one of the oldest civilizations of the world and as it is one of the 7 wonders of the world this fact itself should be the reason enough for you to include it into your bucket list.

9. Swing at the ‘ End of the World’, Banos, Ecuador – The swing is located on top of a mountain alongside the Tungurahua volcano. This became a tourist destination for its picturesque location.
10. Maui, Hawaiian Island – Maui Island is part of an archipelago and is the biggest island in Hawaii. It has become a tourist spot for its beauty and the dormant volcano which adds to the adventurous fun for the tourists to visit it.

MOUNTAINS v/s BEACHES

Who doesn’t enjoy a good vacation. The question always comes down to is whether to go to the mountains or the beach. This debate has been going on for a long time. Let’s consider both the alternatives and make a decision that suits us the best.

MOUNTAINS

  • The primary reason people choose mountains is to enjoy the peace that comes with it. There are many tourists in hill stations but as you go on a higher altitude, there shall be lesser people and thus more peace and calm.
  • Trekking is one of the best activities during a hill station vacation. It really gets your blood pumping and as you go higher and higher you can practically feel your soul enjoying every moment of it because you know the view on the top would be mesmerizing.
  • Another thing you won’t find in any other place is the clean air. You can smell the fragrance of the pine trees all around and it is proven that the fragrance of pine helps in battling depression, anxiety and hostility.
  • The views from the mountains are always breathtaking. Even while you are driving to reach your destination you can see mountains all around you and that beauty is unmatched.
  • Mountain vacations are best for people who love to take some time off and just disconnect from the world. These areas rarely have cell reception and if that is not the way to disconnect then I don’t know what is.
  • Mountains are a place to just relax and think. If your job demands a lot of creative thinking, in that case you must try the solace a hill station can offer you. It really opens up your mind because there is so much quite and you can feel the creative juices flowing in your mind.
  • A vacation to a mountain is best for a solo trip. If you are planning on going on a solo trip, a hill station must be your first choice.
  • Some of the best hill stations in India are: Dharamshala, Mussoorie, Kufri, Chail, Nanital, Triund, Lahaul-Spiti Valley and the list goes on.

BEACHES

  • First and foremost a beach vacation lets you soak up as much Vitamin-D as you want which is great for your health.
  • Beach vacations are great if you have a large group of friends. Beaches are great to just sit down and have fun conversations with your friends.
  • There are a lot of fun activities to do while on a vacation like, go deep sea diving, play Frisbee or volleyball, build sand castles or maybe have a picnic.
  • The best part of a beach vacation is the sound of waves crashing up on the shore and the purely blissful scenic beauty.
  • People who prefer beaches are always high on energy.
  • If you have ever been on a beach you would have seen how chill people are. Everyone is in their own element. There is absolutely no care in the world.
  • Beaches attract more tourists than mountains so there is the element of diversity.
  • People on a beach vacation never sleep. You can be out as long as you want and would always be people around just walking and talking.
  • Such vacations are cheaper as compared to any other destination.
  • Lastly but not the least you get a great view of the sunset and the sunrise. The night sky is beautiful, full of stars and you can just let it all in.
  • Some of the great destinations for a beach vacation are: Goa (of course), Andaman and Nicobar islands, Pondicherry, Kerala and many more.

Have you decided which one are you? But you know it doesn’t matter if you are a beach person or a mountain person, you must take a vacation once a year just to relax, rest, enjoy and detach yourself from the hustle and bustle of life. Take out some time to travel but keep the ongoing pandemic in mind while finalizing the destination. Safe travels!

Top 10 Most Expensive Hotels In The World

1.Burj Al Arab (Dubai, UAE):

The Burj Al Arab is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. One of the tallest hotels in the world, it is the seventh tallest, although 39% of its total height is made up of non-occupiable space. Burj Al Arab stands on an artificial island 280 m (920 ft) from Jumeirah Beach and is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. The shape of the structure is designed to resemble the sail of a ship. It has a helipad near the roof at a height of 210 m (689 ft) above ground.

The hotel is managed by the Jumeirah Group. Despite its size, the Burj Al Arab holds only 28 double-story floors which accommodate 202 bedroom suites. The smallest suite occupies an area of 169 m2 (1,820 sq ft), the largest covers 780 m2 (8,400 sq ft). Suites feature design details that juxtapose east and west. White columns show great influence. Bathrooms are accented by mosaic tile patterns. The Royal Suite is billed at 18 lakhs per night. 

2. Hotel Plaza Athenèe (France):

Hotel Plaza Athénée is a 5-star hotel at 37 East 64th Street between Park Avenue and Madison Avenue on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York City. Built-in 1984, it has 143 guest rooms. It is currently owned by Thai billionaire Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi.

The premier hotel in Paris in terms of grandeur. On the 5th floor is the biggest suite of the French hospitality industry. You get to relish the sights of the Eiffel tower from the hotel. Guests have a private kitchen and a steam room to themselves and enjoy French Regency fabrics and furniture. A night here will cost you 20 lakhs.

3. Palms Casino Resort (Las Vegas Nevada):

Palms Casino Resort is a hotel and casino located near the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. It has 703 rooms and suites and contains 94,840 sq ft (8,811 m2) casino, recording studio, Michelin-starred restaurant, and 2,500-seat concert theater.

This hotel and casino have 653 rooms of opulence, none more lavish than the Sky Villa resort on the 6th floor covers over 800 square meters, and costs 26 lakhs. Its design style is a tasteful blend of modern and retro. Its world-class facilities like poker tables, racy artwork, and indoor pools make it the preferred choice of the rich. The hotel is renowned for its great nightlife activities.

The Fantasy Tower is also home to several nightlife venues including Moon Nightclub and The View. The tower holds what is known as the Sky Villas and Fantasy Suites, which are some of the most expensive hotel suites in the world. The two-story Sky Villa on the top floor is billed at 30 lakhs per night. 

4. Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez in Cannes (France):

The Hôtel Martinez is a famous art deco style Grand Hotel on the Croisette at Cannes. It was opened on 20 February 1929 by its founder-owner Emmanuel Michele Martinez, son of Baron Giovanni Martinez and Giuseppa Labiso Costanza, from Palermo Sicily, Italy, a noble ancient Italian family of Spanish origins.

This hotel is a prominent feature of luxury living in France. its art styled décor is unmistakable. You can enjoy the scenic view of the southern French city from the hotel. Part of its exclusive features include guests having the luxury of personal jacuzzis overlooking the Bay of Cannes.

5. Grand Resort Lagonissi Royal Villa in Athens (Greece):

It’s very extravagant hotel located on the Athenian Rivera, it has ten restaurants, 197 rooms, and 76 suites. It offers concierge facilities like helicopter lifts, yacht hire, chauffeur-driven limousines for its distinguished guests. At more than 30 lakhs every evening spent, it is the definition of Greek opulence.

Designed for royal and prestigious guests, the Royal Villa encapsulates the essence of luxury in its splendidly appointed interior and exterior spaces welcoming esteemed guests to experience the epitome of luxury living. The Royal Villa features two master bedrooms with king-size beds, a spacious living room with a fireplace and dining table, a fully equipped business corner, a fully fitted kitchen and grill as well as outdoor BBQ facilities. The villa comes complete with an indoor and outdoor heated pool, a fully equipped gym and steam bath, a private massage area with a massage-table, two oversized marble-lined bathrooms, and a guest bath. Furthermore, there are Butler’s quarters with a separate entrance and a bathroom. Privileged guests are welcome to sunbathe on the spacious outdoor terrace, dive in the crystalline waters of the pool, maintain their work out routine while on holidays, and follow their own private path to the dazzling shore of the bay.

4. Laucala Island Resort Hilltop Estate (Fiji):

It’s a very luxurious villa located on its island in the Archipelago of Fiji, you would still have to seek approval via an application from the owner, Dietrick Mateschitz. The hotel has received many positive reviews, many calling it the Apex of the World.

The Hilltop Villa is likened to a “resort within a resort,” situated atop the high green hills of the island, shining as the crowning gem of Laucala. The captivating views, unique atmosphere, and unusually designed main villa with its own panoramic view, landscaped garden, and two spacious guest villas all work together to form one oversized private “estate” on the hilltop. The main villa features a master bedroom, lounge, dining room, library, outdoor pavilions, and lab. You cannot book a stay here, but being friends with the Red Bull founder might give you a chance to get a vacation here.

4 – Raj Palace Hotel, Jaipur (India):

The Raj Palace in Jaipur Rajasthan, India is more than two and a half centuries old palace converted into a grand heritage hotel.

The costliest hotel in Asia at a daily rate of more than 32 lakhs. It was built in 1727 and branded as a grand heritage hotel. It was previously The Maharaja’s Pavilion as he once resided there. You can even find a museum celebrating India’s reach heritage in the presidential suite. The hotel is awarded as “the best heritage hotel of India” by the Government of India and voted as “The leading heritage hotel of the world” consecutively for seven times by World Travel Awards. The property is a member of the “Small Luxury Hotel” of the World (SLH). It is managed by the flagship company GVK group which is also a major player in the Mining and Information Technology industries.

Featuring a charming interior with crystal chandeliers and double-height ceilings, the luxurious hotel in central Jaipur also features a relaxing pool and health club. It is also one of the palaces lived by the Maharajah that has been restored to its original glory and charm. Each room is unique and still seems to breathe the spirit of the illustrious guests who once stayed here. It is spacious and decorated with traditional Indian décor and antique furnishings. Many rooms have pieces from the Royal Family’s museum collection. Guests can enjoy views of the garden/courtyard/pool.

Guests can relax in Raj Palace’s swimming pool or schedule a massage treatment at the spa. On-site entertainment includes a theatre and marionette show. It has a number of well-equipped meeting rooms with each having a royal name.

Swapna Mahal serves a variety of international cuisine. The Kebab Shop offers Mughlai cuisine, including live barbecue dishes. Drinks and fresh pastries can be found at The Royal Lounge. A selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can be enjoyed at the Shikarbadi.

The Raj Palace is a 20-minute drive from Jaipur International Airport. It is a 10-minute drive from the Amber Palace Fort and a 5-minute drive from the Jal Mahal Lake.

3. Four Seasons Hotel Ty Warner (New York):

The building was started in 1989 and took seven years and 372 crores to construct. It’s among the priciest hotels in America. The rooms are exotic, having 360-degree ceiling views, gold, and platinum weave fabrics, amongst other features. It costs 37 lakhs per evening.

Recognized as “a visual tour de force of volumetric flourishes and crafted surfaces” by Architectural Digest magazine, the Ty Warner Penthouse is a seven-year collaboration between I.M. Pei, Peter Marino and visionary hotel owner, Ty Warner. The architectural and artistic masterpiece soars 52 stories into the sky, There are four cantilevered glass balconies (the highest in the world) that perfectly align with the grid of Manhattan’s streets.

Situated on ‘Billionaires’ Row,’ the IM Pei-designed Four Seasons Hotel New York embodies elegant sophistication; yet the Art Deco lobby with soaring ceilings, towering columns and stone flooring has an intimate feel thanks to dim lighting and a quiet atmosphere. Visit Ty Bar for daily afternoon tea or live jazz on Friday nights. The luxe Ty Warner Penthouse on the 52nd floor is a most impressive urban suite. The one-bedroom suite has 26-ft ceilings, hand-lacquered walls inlaid with mother of pearl, floor-to-ceiling bookcases, a grand piano, zen room with a waterfall of South African-sourced semi-precious granite, a Peloton bike, Chinese onyx bathtub, in-suite spa and an exquisite chandelier made by Deborah Thomas.

9. Hotel President Wilson Royal Penthouse Suite:

If you fancy seeing how the other half lives or have some cash to splash on spectacularly luxurious hotel accommodation, we have just the place for you. The Royal Penthouse Suite at the Hotel President Wilson in Geneva is famous for being the largest suite in Europe at 1680 square meters, and numerous celebrities and heads of state have stayed in it.

Facing Lake Geneva and minutes away from the most beautiful parks and boutiques along the famous rue du Rhône, this iconic hotel is one of the most contemporary addresses in Geneva, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mont-Blanc. With elegant furnishings and stylish amenities, our 204 guest rooms and 22 suites are beautifully appointed and equipped with the highest quality.

Visitors in this hotel enjoy magnificent views of the Swiss Alps. The Penthouse suite is 1800 square Meters with bullet-proof windows. Also, private lifts take you straight to your apartment, amongst other luxuries.

The suite is located on the entire top floor of the hotel and has a panoramic terrace with breathtaking views over Lake Geneva. The wraparound terrace comes complete with a telescope for stargazing on clear nights.

The opulent suite has 12 luxury bedrooms so you can bring all your pals and your entourage along. The bedrooms have marble bathrooms with bath products by Hermès. The two master bedrooms have a vast walk-in dressing room and a marble bathroom with a jacuzzi facing the lake, as well as a separate shower, steam, and mirror TV.

There is also a fitness room to keep you in shape, and a private chef and chauffeur are available to you at all times. To keep yourselves entertained, you have the world’s largest TV screen by Bang & Olufsen, the BeoVision 4-103 home cinema set.

10. Lover’s Deep Luxury Submarine (St. Lucia):

At 1 crore per night, it is officially the costliest hotel in the world. Located in the ocean at considerable depth. You get an underwater view of the entire marine world. Though it’s very extravagant, every minute spent on this hotel is worth every penny. This hotel is the very definition of the Mile-Low club.

The people at Oliver’s Travels are known for their exclusive, one-of-a-kind holiday experiences, and this time they’re proposing something as out-of-the-box as it gets. Of course, the endless blue seas and skies are wonderful, especially if you’re on a luxurious yacht.

If you thought the Caribbean was beautiful from the shores or from the deck of a boat, just wait till you see what’s down in the deep: schools of fish, pods of dolphins, and the most amazing landscapes of coral are all underwater, waiting to be discovered.

IS VACCINE DISCRIMINATION A BARRIER TO GLOBAL TRAVEL?

Who doesn’t love travelling? Travelling is all about collecting moments and exploring the world with comfort. Especially in the times of covid, where people are home bound, there is an eager need to travel and enjoy the freedom instead of staying at home because Beyond discovery, travel broadens our understanding of the planet, other species, and cultures, and assists us in becoming better global citizens. Apart from it, many people and students are home stuck who wanted to go abroad to pursue education and get back to their respective jobs in the other countries but are stuck due to pandemic. However, many countries have opened their doors for the Indian citizens to travel in their countries but the basic requirement to travel is vaccination.

 As well all know that in India Covaxin, produced in-house by Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad, and Covishield, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India in Pune, are presently being used in  coronavirus inoculation program. The WHO has approved the covishield but covaxin is yet to approve. So, there are the bunch of Indian citizens who are skeptical about the approval of covaxin and hence for now, they can’t travel abroad until and unless the vaccine is not approve by world health organization. Therefore, many people are of the opinion that the test should be the main basis to travel abroad and not the jabs. 

 Recently, S Jaishankar, the Union’s external affairs minister, said on Friday that international travel based on coronavirus (Covid-19) testing is “good enough,” despite the fact that some nations have made vaccination mandatory, and that a deal must be reached. He said after meeting with his Russian colleague, Sergey Lavrov, during a joint news conference that “People who are tested before foreign travel and tested on arrival is a good enough foundation for travel, but other countries have recently added the problem of vaccination,”

 India has previously demanded that each EU member state do so independently. Consider granting a similar exemption to those who have received Covid-19 vaccines in India, such as Covishield and Covaxin, and accepting the immunisation certificate obtained through the Cowin site. According to Jaishankar, he and Lavrov discussed how visitors from their respective nations are not “discriminated against” and how “understandings” about Indian and Russian travel to one other’s countries may be established. The continuing Covid-19 epidemic, according to the external affairs minister, has allowed Russia and India to display the strength of their collaboration, with the development of Sputnik vaccine being one of them. The Russian foreign minister also stated that both Russia and India are opposed to vaccine politicization, and that he is “sure” that the majority of nations would follow suit. 

Russia’s foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, also stated that Russia is willing to discuss the possibility of coordinating their actions related to vaccinated citizens, including certification of those who have been vaccinated, and that they can reach an agreement in this area that will serve as an example to other countries.

Know about Hampi

Hampi City:

Hampi is one of the wonders in the world with full of natural scenario and best place for spending vacation with family. It is the place which signifies glory, traditional and cultural brilliance with beautiful architecture, heritage moment with symbolic ancient stories embedded in it.

Hampi is one of the ancient place in Karnataka, India which recognized as UNESCO-World Heritage Site. It is the listed second in position as most visited places across the globe according to The New York Times in 2019.

Hampi is a city which is situated neared on the banks of Tungabhandra River where numerous ruined ancient temple monuments from Vijayanagara Empire are presents with beautiful design structures and also some tourists attraction places. It is always attracted spot for tourist. Around 25lakhs of tourists across the globe visits every year to this place.

Hampi Tourism:

Hampi is one of the mythology place where temples like Vitthala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Hamara Rama Temple, Achyuturaya Temple etc. Hindu Temples are presenting in ruins form and also with beautiful monolithic structure which nearly situated from the 7th Century. This place is also a sacred pilgrimage site which attracts many prigrims.
According to ancient Puranas, this is the place where Monkey Kingdom that is nothing Kishkinda, the place where God Hanuman lives with other monkey fellows. There is also Hanuman Temple located in Anjaneya Hill.

One of the best places to see in Hampi is Matunga Hill which is an open air spot which is situated in a hilly region, the place attracted to many trekkers and climbers for Rock climbing and trekking purpose. It is also of the sunset point in Hampi where excellent spectacular view can be seen.

Virupaksha Temple, one of the most ancient cultural site from 7th Century is available in this city. It is the shrine place where Lord Shiva is in Virupaksha form is present. Nearby this temple there is also one tourist spot that is Hemakuta Hill where ruins temples and monolithic sculpture in Lord Vishnu form is there. These hills also provides excellent view of Hampi Bazaar where available from the 16th Century in Vijaynagar Empire. Not only this Achutraya Temple one of the best place to visit at the time of sunset and sunrise. Nearby Hampi Bazaar there are many places to visit like Monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha, a bull statue, Nandi is also located at east street and Krishna Temple.

Lotus Palace is a place where lotus-eyed dome is there. Designed with a walled compound also called as Zenana Enclosure is built for royal women’s and Queen’s Palace is the largest structure in it. And also Hazara Rama Temple is located neared which is one of the smallest temple in the city. There is also Elephant stables being located nearby which is used to serve as an enclosure for the royal elephants during the empire there are eleven chambers which are highly decorated.

Underground Temple which is shrine of Lord Shiva one of the important places to visit in Hampi.
There is also Dasara Dibba which also called as house of victory it is the platform which is situated inside of the royal enclosure of Hampi the platform is made of stone and is in 12metres in height.

As this place nearly to Tungabhadra River there is Dam is built on this river which is located at 16kilometres from Hampi with a beautiful garden to see with nice dancing fountain. Not only this it is also famous spot where tourist can take a Basket boat trip called as Dongi, a bowl basket shaped boat which is used to cross the river.

Sasivekalu Ganesha, the Ganesha God idol in monolithic form is also one famous place to visit which resembles deity according to the locals.This place also have Ugra Narasimbha,a form of God Vishnu is one of the biggest idol in this city.

This place also have one of the most hotspot place in the locals be Pampa Sarovar which is the best place for all photographers who are visiting this ancient city and best time to visit this place is at the end of day.

Apart from this one of the grandest temple in all monuments be Vitthala Temple. The temple complex
has many halls, shrine and pavilions located inside it which made of stones with beautiful design. This temple is surrounded with cravings wall which considered development from 16th century. This place also have shrine of the Godness Devi, Sabha Mantapa or Main hall, Ranga Mantapa, Kalyana Kantala or Marriage hall and also famous Stone Chariot. One of the significance is that Stone Chariot surrounded by Vitthala temple which presents nearly in south-east side also appears on new Fifty 50 Rupee Note by India after Demonization which portrays cultural heritage of the country.

Best time to visit: October to March.

How to Reach:
By Road:
Local transportation like KSRTC buses are available to this place and some Private and Tourist vehicles are also there.

By Rail:
Nearest Railway station is Hospet which is 13kilometeres from Hampi.

By Air:
Nearest airport is Bangalore which is 300 km from this city.
Nearest airport is Belgaum which is 270 km from this city.

Nalanda University – An Ancient Seat of Learning

Nalanda was one of the earliest and finest universities in India.

It is located in Nalanda District, Bihar, India.

ORIGIN OF NALANDA

The origins of this scholastic institution in 5th century CE. It served for an uninterrupted duration of 800 years

The university thrived under the patronage of the rulers of the Gupta dynasty during the 5th and 6th centuries.

 It continued to flourish under Emperor Harshavardhan of Kannauj in the 7th century as well. 

The growth and the popularity of the university continued until the 9th century.

The declination of Nalanda University was primarily due to the establishment of four other seats of Buddhist learning in the same region under the Pala Empire from the 9th century to the 12th century

FACTS

  • Oldest university with hostel facilities in India.
  • The massive library of Nalanda was called Dharma Gunj, meaning the Treasury of Truth or the Mountain of Truth.
    • It contained hundreds of thousands of books.
  • The subjects taught at Nalanda covered in every field of learning, and it attracted pupils and scholars from Korea, Japan, China, Tibet, Indonesia, Persia and Turkey
  • It is believed that the library of Nalanda was so huge that it burned for months after the university was ransacked by Bakhtiyar Khilji and the library was set on fire.
  • Nalanda was attacked three times by the invaders –
    1. The Huns
    2. The Gaudas
    3. Bhaktiyar Khilji – who brought about its complete destruction.
  • Archeologists and historians are of the opinion that just 10% of the Nalanda campus has been excavated till date. Around 90% remain to be excavated.
  • The ruins of Nalanda were the location for the shooting of the popular song “O Mere Raja” from the Bollywood movie Johny Mera Naam starring Hema Malini and Dev Anand.
By Kirti kumari

DECLINATION

  Muḥammad Bakhtiyar Khalji, a Turkic invader destroyed the Nalanda University in 1202 AD.

At that time Bakhtiyar Khilji had captured some areas ruled by Buddhists in North India and once he became quite ill. He got enough treatment from his princes but he could not recover and reached a moribund condition.

Then someone advised him to take the treatment from Acharya Rahul Sribhadra, who was head of Ayurveda department of Nalanda University. But Khilji was not ready for this. He had more faith in his princes. He was not willing to believe that Indian physicians have more knowledge than his wife and their masters.

But to save his life he had to call Acharya Rahul Sribhadra, head of Ayurveda department of Nalanda University. Then Bakhtiar Khilji put a strange condition in front of Vaidyaraj that I will not eat any kind of medicine given by him. They had to fix it without medication. After thinking of this, Vaidyaraj accepted his condition and after a few days, he came to Khilji with a Quran and said that he had to read the page of the Quran. And after reading these pages you will free from illness.

Bakhtiar Khilji read the Quran as Vaidyaraj said he was cured.

“It is said that Rahul Shribhadra applied for medicine on some pages of the Quran. and as he started reading those pages of the Quran he kept on recovering.”

After recovering khilji was shocked by the fact that an Indian scholar and teacher had more knowledge than his princes and countryman.

After this, he decided to destroy the roots of Buddhism and Ayurveda. As a result, Khilji set fire to the great library of Nalanda and burned around 9 million manuscripts.

Beauty of Kashmir!

Kashmir is located on the Jhelum River in north India. It is always cold here. It is very beautiful. It is called Paradise on Earth. Its beauty seems very captivating in every season. In summer there is greenery everywhere and in winter everything is covered with snow. The red apples hanging on the apples look very beautiful. There are many tourist places to see in Kashmir like Gulmarg, Sonmarg etc. Gulmarg is called the life of Kashmir. Sarovars like Vullar add to the beauty of Kashmir.

The people of Kashmir are called Kashmiri Pandits and they are very beautiful. They are also non-vegetarians and consume kebabs etc. After eating here, it is rotated in sweets. Saffron is cultivated here. Whoever goes to this place makes sure to buy show pieces made of walnut wood, apple, Pashmina shawl and saffron. Kashmir is a matter of great dispute between India and Pakistan. Kashmir has its own flag and it has its own constitution under Section 370 of the Constitution of India. No person outside Kashmir can buy land in Kashmir.

The poet has rightly said about Kashmir that “if there is heaven on earth, it is here, it is here”. We have been fortunate enough to spend some of our holidays in Kashmir, but this happened a few years before the disturbances started in the valley. We usually visited Kashmir during our summer holidays. We took a train to Pathankot. Steal the bus from Srinagar. The last time we were there, we went to Chandan Van. A trip in the Kashmir valley is a beautiful experience. Green plains, long There are trees, lakes, springs, snow-capped mountains. Both sides of the streets are lined with Apple and Peer Orchard.

Wild strawberry grows in abundance everywhere, flowers and fragrant saffron are cultivated here. Kashmir relies on its image of being a paradise on Earth. A visit to the Shalimar and Nishat Gardens is a lake dating back to the Mughal era, when Nur Jahan’s favorite queen of Emperor Jahangir visited these gardens. There are beautiful poplar trees, flowers and fountains all over the place. Many Hindi films have been shot here. We often visited the lakes of Kashmir. Dal Lake, which is a major tourist attraction, has many home boats. Many foreigners come here and stay during their holidays. Many boats called the gazelle between these house boats and the shores of this lake. Likewise, there is the famous Wular lake, which is a large fresh water lake.

shooting of jab tak hai jaan movie, song jiya re

However, among all the lakes of Kashmir, my favorites were Evanabal and Gangarbil lakes. Mansabal Lake is situated between the mountains and the Indus River. While the Gangarbal Lake is considered the source of the Ganges. It is closed in the rocky center of Harmok, Kashmir also has many springs for their healing powers. The most famous among all is Chashma – Shahi, or Shahi Vasant. It is known for its medicinal values. There is also a sulfur lake called ‘Tatta Pani’ in Kashmir. It is believed that if all take a bath in these springs, then all types of skin diseases can be cured. Kashmir is a trekker’s paradise. There are several trails scattered all over the valley which are ideally suited for trekking. They are variously known as Gulmarg or path of flowers, Sonamarg or path of gold etc. In fact the beauty of Kashmir binds a person and does not allow him to leave the place.

reference-https://articles.pk/kashmir-land-of-heaven.html

Nainital – The lake city of india

Enveloped in a thick foil of nature, accentuated by the scent of the flowering blossoms blending miraculously in the crisp fresh air, Nainital is truly the treasure trove of Kumaon. It is among the most visited hill stations of North India since British period.

perched at an elevation of 2,084 metres above sea level, the glittering city of Nainital is hailed for being a parent to the ravishing Naini Lake from which it has earned the epithet of being the lake city. The Nainital town not only lures the domestic travellers and tourists but also a number of foreign tourists. It shines as a glittering jewel in the Himalayan Mountains and is surrounded with lakes and nature’s bounty.

Rock Climbing and Rappelling

A 4 kilometre drive from Nainital takes you to the rock climbing area of Bara Pathar. Quite obviously named after the twelve huge rocks in this area, Bara Pathar attracts a decent number of climbers and trekkers. The climb on natural rock is fairly tough and requires a lot more resilience than a normal wall at an activity centre. With an experienced instructor to guide you through every step, making safety is the top priority, rock climbing at Bara Panther is compelling and exhilarating.

Ropeway to Snow View point

One of Nainital’s prominent factors of allure, the cable car is an opportunity not to be forsaken. It provides an irreplaceable offer of catching a bird’s eye view of the breath-taking Naini Lake and the entire Nainital hill station. A treat for the senses, relax as you glide across the air over such pristine landscapes.

Picnic by the Waterfall

Pull up a bit of rock and grass as you settle down for a rejuvenating lunch amidst the cascading waters of the waterfalls in Mukteshwar. Complete with the open valley views and unmatched serenity, this will come as a welcome break from the unending buzz which is the chaotic city life.

Planetarium Visit

Drop in for a spot of the stargazing at the Aryabhata Research Institute of Observational Sciences for an otherworldly experience. Lose yourself in the stars and beyond as you delve deep into the majestic unknown of the universe and its underlying mysteries.

Sunset at Hanuman Garhi Temple

A famous temple in the honour of Lord Hanuman, who is a much celebrated image of unwavering devotion himself, being one of the greatest worshippers of Lord Ram. Perched at an altitude of 6400ft above sea level, the whole case of divinity is multiplied by the sun making its gorgeous descent beyond the mountains silhouetting the statue of Hanuman, its palm open in blessing.

Best time to visit Nainital

March to June is the popular tourist season when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities and quite pleasant. If you’re the type to lace up your adventure boots, this is the time to visit here with paragliding, trekking, camping and rafting all up for grabs.

July to September sees heavy rainfall and quite a drop in visitors. On the up side the rains make the hills more luxuriant and if you’re the kind who prefers dripping weather and lonesome hikes, this time has your name all over it.

October to February gets chilly and January brings in snowfall too.

Although Nainital is a year-round destination, the activities open to you may vary based on when you visit. So, plan accordingly.

Things to carry

Pack as light as possible given the amount of road travel involved here.

• Cotton clothing for summer and a light jacket would work for when evenings get cooler. If you’re un[travel]ling in winter, warmer clothes complete with thick socks and warmer jackets. Carry your windcheater and umbrella if you’re here in the monsoons as well.

• Sturdy walking shoes, mandatory if you’re hiking, make sense given the amount of walking involved here.

• Sunscreen, especially if you’re going up to the higher reaches. Usual prescription medications.

• Mobile and tablet electronic chargers.

Best places to stay

• Manu Maharani, Nainital

• The Naini Retreat, Nainital

• Shervani Hilltop, Nainital

Travel the World!!

Figuring out how to travel the world is no easy feat, especially when you’re trying to do it on a budget or planning world travel with a family.

There are many factors to keep in mind when evaluating your trip, including what to do before leaving and your budget. To help you get started, we’ve put together a guide on how to travel the world, including everything from how to start looking into your trip to how to save money once you’re abroad.

Get prepared

If you want to travel the world, there are some planning measures you want to take first to ensure you have durable luggage and the proper documents — a passport and possibly visas — and figuring out how much time off you’ll need.

Book travel far in advance

After all that preparation, you’re ready to book your trip around the world, which will likely be a round-the-world plane ticket, a journey by sea, or a combination of flights and ground transportation.

Avoid hidden travel and communication fees

Once you’ve started your trip, there are tips and tricks to help you travel each destination across the world on a budget. City-pass offerings vary by location, but many will give you free or discounted admission to top attractions in a city, as well as fast-track options to cut lines

Choose Restaurants Wisely

While eating food from around the world is often one of the best parts of traveling, dining out for every meal can become expensive. To save some money: stay away from restaurants located near tourist attractions, which generally have higher prices and lower quality.


Ask about free amenities on flights and at hotels

Some airlines and hotels have free perks available to guests who know to ask for them. On flights, for example, travelers can request everything from ukuleles on some Hawaiian Airlines flights to hot chocolate on Southwest Airlines. Some hotels also offer free amenities that range from night lights, chargers and curling irons

reference-https://www.thetravelmagazine.net/articles

INDONESIA- THE WORLD’S LARGEST ISLAND COUNTRY

Let’s do a travel by my article

Officially Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania between the Indian and Pacific oceans.It is the world’s largest island country and the 14th-largest country by land area, at 1,904,569 square kilometres  which consists of over seventeen thousand islands, including Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and parts of Borneo and New Guinea.Indonesia is the world’s fourth-most populous country and the most populous Muslim-majority country. Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia and it is the world’s second-most populous urban area. 

HOW IS THE CLIMATE OF INDONESIA?

Basically Indonesia’s climate  is almost entirely tropical.The coastal plains’ climate is  average 28 °C, the inland and mountain areas are 26 °C, and the higher mountain regions, 23 °C. Temperature depends on the season, and through the change of seasons there is little change in the length of daylight hours.The main changeable thing is not Indonesia’s climate or air pressure, but rainfall. The area’s correlative humidity ranges between 70% and 90%. Although air temperature changes little from season to season or from one region to the next, cooler temperatures prevail at higher elevations. In general, temperatures drop approximately 1°C/90-meter increase in elevation.

Indonesia is a  naturally tropical country, that’s why there are two seasons those are mainly Rainy and Dry, and it  does not have spring, summer, autumn, or winter. In most of the country (including Java and Bali) the dry season is from April to October, while the wet season is from November to March.

PLACES TO VISIT –

There are many places to visit and each and every one is very beautiful. Indonesia is one of the world’s most beautiful places to visit and the most visited holiday destination. Let’s find out by my article what makes Indonesia so interesting !! 

Gili Islands is for the best nightlife,Raja Ampat Islands for explore rare species of corals,Maluk Beach for witness the changing colors of sun rays,Kelimutu Lake for dramatic volcanic peaks,Lake Toba for largest caldera,Bunaken Marine Park for exotic range of fish species,Komodo National Park  for giant monitor lizards,Mount Bromo for the active volcano,Mount Rinjani which is the second highest volcano of indonesia,Ijen for mining activities,Dieng Plateau which is an abode of god,Torajaland which relishes the culture,Borobudur Temple which is the world’s biggest buddhist sanctuary,Ubud for hike through rainforests & rice paddy fields,Tanjung Puting National Park for trekking in tropical jungle,Derawan Islands for  relaxing & unwinding,Belitung for dutch colonial architecture,Nusa Dua for white sand beaches,Seminyak is the most happening place,Jakarta which is melting pot of cultures,Lombok is a stunning marine life,North Sulawesi is the best diving sites,Nusa Penida is offbeat yet spectacular,Bali which is cliche yet the best,Yogyakarta is a quaint little pretty place,Bandung is a different kind of calm,Bangka Islands is simply blissful and the Wae Rebo village is for iconic culture.

Indonesia city

LET’S TALK ABOUT 10 BEST PLACES IN INDONESIA-

  • Bali- Bali is the most desirable place in Indonesia. We can say it is a dream destination.  Bali is a fair of beautiful beaches, volcanic hills, lush rice paddies, and thousands upon thousands of Indonesian temples.It has the nickname “Island of God”.
Bali
  • Yogyakarta- It is located on the Island of Java. Yogyakarta is regarded as an important centre for classical Javanese fine arts and culture such as ballet, batik textiles, drama, literature, music, poetry, silversmithing, visual arts, and wayang puppetry.
Yogyakarta
  • Komodo National Park-  It is a national park which is located within the Lesser Sunda Islands in the border region between the provinces of East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara. It is founded to protect the world’s largest lizard. Now it protects other species, including marine species. In 1991 UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site.
Komodo National Park
  • Lombok- It is an Island which is located in West Nusa Tenggara province.Lombok is surrounded by a number of smaller islands locally called Gili. Other interesting things are surfing hotspots, uncrowded beaches, and magical waterfalls tucked within steamy jungles, of which Tiu Kelep Waterfall tops the list without question.There’s also a fantastic nightlife scene.
  • Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park-  Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, known locally as Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru (TNBTS) is a national park located in East Java. It is an ethereal yet barren wonderland of volcanic calderas seemingly continuously surrounded by smoke and clouds.
Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park
  • Bukit Lawang- It is a small tourist village on the bank of Bahorok River in North Sumatra province.Bukit Lawang is known for the largest animal sanctuary of Sumatran orangutan and also the main access point to the Gunung Leuser National Park from the east side.
Bukit Lawang
  • Torajaland- Nickname is ‘the Land of the Heavenly Kings,’it is famous for their massive peaked-roof houses known as tongkonan and spectacular but gruesome funeral rites. After a person’s death, the body is often kept for several years until the actual funeral ceremony. The deceased is then finally buried in a small cave or in a hollow tree. The biggest funerals are usually held in the dry-season months of July and August, but there are funerals year-round.
Torajaland
  • Flores Island- it is one of the Lesser Sunda Islands,The lakes are truly a sight to behold in every color you can think of – from browns and greens to aqua blue; colors caused by the minerals reacting to the gas of the region’s volcanoes. The Kelimutu three-colored lake is a must-see from the top of the volcano at sunrise.
Flores Island
  • Tanjung Puting National Park- Located in the jungles of Borneo.The third-largest island in the world that’s part of Indonesia.
Tanjung Puting National Park
  • Raja Ampat Islands- Raja Ampat is one of the most sensational diving destinations in Indonesia. Raja Ampat, which means ‘Four Kings’. It consists of four major jungles.Clad islands surrounded by turquoise lagoons and pearly,white palm,fringed beaches like Waigeo,Salawati, Misool, and Batanta and along with thousands of smaller islands.
Raja Ampat Islands

Heaven in India

Heaven In India

Have you visited The Sahara Desert? or the Snow-capped mountains of Switzerland? If you haven’t, it’s perfectly alright. Why visit so far when you can see such places in India too. India has deserts, snow-covered mountains, waterfalls, historic places, and a lot of greenery. You name it and we have it!
There are so many breathtakingly beautiful places in India that one doesn’t need to go out.

Here are some spots you should visit before you kick the bucket.

 • Tea Garden Hills of Munnar

Munnar is situated in God’s own country, Kerala. It is a famous hill station in Kerala. It is well-known for its tea plantations and lush green hills.
The best time to visit these tea garden hills is between November – February.

 • Nanda Devi

Nanda Devi is the second-mosy noteworthy mountain in India. It is located in the Himalayan Mountains in the northern part of India. It is extremely famous for its remarkable view.
From 15 June to 15 September is the best time to visit Nanda Devi.

 • Mizoram

Mizoram is a land of hills, lakes, rivers, and valleys. It is a state in northeastern India. It is known for its evergreen hills, rivers, and high sparkling waterfalls.
The best time to visit Mizoram is during October, November, and December.

 • Nohkalikai Falls, Cherrapunji

Nohkalikai is the highest waterfall in India. It is located in the state of Meghalaya which is in the northeastern part of the country. It is known as the wettest place on Earth
The best time to visit is in September and October.

 • Deodar Forest, Himachal Pradesh

Deodar forest is located in Himachal Pradesh and it is famous for its pine trees, Cedrus deodar tree species.
The best time to visit is between February to June.

 • Tungnath, Uttarakhand



You can find the oldest Hindu Shrine of Lord Shiva here surrounded by the tungnath mountains. It is the best place if you’re looking for a trek.
One can visit throughout the year

 • Kashmir

Kashmir is also known as ‘ Paradise on Earth’.
It is very famous for its snow-capped mountains, wildlife, monuments, and mesmerizing scenic beauty.
March to August is the best time to visit Kashmir.

 • Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is a renowned Island located in the Arabian sea. It is known for its flora and fauna and crystal clear waters.
The best time to visit this island is from October to mid-May.

THE ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS – FAIR OF NATURE AND VIEWS 

Andaman and Nicobar Island is a union territory of India which consists of 572 islands and 38 of them are inhabited. It is at the junction of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. Port Blair is the capital and largest city.

The territory is about three districts- the Nicobar District and its capital is Car Nicobar as its capital, the South Andaman district with Port Blair as its capital and the North and Middle Andaman district with Mayabunder as its capital.There are the Sentinelese, also known as the Sentinel, who are uncontacted tribe. 

NOW LET’S TAKE A TOUR OF THIS ISLAND BY MY ARTICLE-

The Sentinel

It is the place where India’s only one active volcano , Barren Island, is located, which had  last erupted in 2017. There is also a mud volcano situated in Baratang Island . In December 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, renamed three of the islands as a tribute to Subhas Chandra Bose, Ross Island was renamed as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Islan, Neil Island as Shaheed Island, and Havelock Island as Swaraj Island.

THE TOURIST SPOTS –

There are many places to visit like – 

Andaman Nicobar Island

Havelock Island, Neil island, North Bay Island, Baratang Island, Viper Island, Ross and Smith Island, Cinque Island, Rutland Island, Mount Harriet National Park,Chidiya,Tapu,Rangat,Mayabunder,Diglipur,Aamkunj Beach,Dhaninallah Mangrove Nature Walkway/Walk,Panchavati Waterfalls,Cuthbert Beach,Cuthbert Bay Wildlife Sanctuary,Long island,Guitar Island,Merk Bay Beach,North Passage Island,Button islands,Lalaji Beach,Elephant Beach,Kalapathar,Jolly Buoy Island,Corbyn’s Cove Beach,Lamiya Bay Beach, Diglipur,Kalipur Beach,Ramnagar Beach, Neil Island,Ramnagar Beach, Diglipur,Pathi Level Beach,Alfred Caves,Little Andaman,Butler Bay Beach,Netaji Nagar Beach,Waterfalls at Little Andaman,White Surf and Whisper Wave,Little Andaman, Oil Palm Plantation,Stewart Island Beach,Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex,Chatham Saw Mill,Anthropological Museum,Katchal Island,Karmatang Beach,Interview Island,Avis Island,Vijaynagar Beach,Limestone Caves of Baratang Island,Mud Volcanoes of Diglipur,The Parrot Island,Barren Island.

MOST VISITED PLACES- 

Port Blair
  • Port Blair- Port Blair serves as the entry point for visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.The Cellular jail here is perhaps one of the most infamous remnants of India’s struggle for independence.
Havelock Island
  • Havelock Island-Havelock Island, officially Swaraj Island, is one of the largest islands.The island belongs to the Ritchie’s Archipelago and is located between Peel Island and Neill Island.
  • Baratang Island- It belongs to the North and Middle Andaman administrative district,The boat ride is covered with a canopy of the forest which is also a home to the indigenous ‘Jarawa’ tribe.The Limestone caves here will immediately gather your attention as the erosion have formed some unique shapes.
Batarang Island
  • Neil Island- Neil Island is also known as the vegetable bowl of Andaman Islands.Because of the beauty of the reefs located here, Neil islands are often termed as the coral capital of Andaman.
Neil Island
  • Ross Island- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, formerly known as Ross Island.Ross islands are famous for the ruins of Penal colony that precedes the cellular jail or the Kala pani.
Ross Island
  • Rangat- It is  a town which is located on the Middle Andaman Island,The scenic beauty of Rangat is perfect for flora and fauna lovers.famous for Cuthbert Bay Beach, which is the breeding ground for turtles. These include olive ridley turtles, green sea turtles, hawksbill and leatherback turtles.
Rangat
  • The Great Nicobar Island- Great Nicobar is the southernmost and largest of the Nicobar Islands of India. It is famous for its ecological hotspot, wildlife, and nature. Main attractions are Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, Indira Point.
The Great Nicobar

Now it is your turn which place will be your favorite !!! 

Sail Through The Waters In These Places

Being someone who seeks thrill in boating is always guaranteed of an adventure ahead. Boating as a water-based leisurely activity is found to have a positive impact on the relationships. Those who enjoy boating have certain craftsmanship in them to be always able to spot the best boat and know that it is the going to be significant fun. If you are looking for refreshing breaks to connect and spend quality time with your family, choose a location, plan a trip and go on a boat ride with them. The part about picking up a place where you can delight yourself on a boat ride might sound tricky but it is not.

1. Nakki Lake, Mount Abu:

The popular hill station situated in the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu has several tourist attractions. Among those, Nakki Lake which is considered to be pious because of its historical importance is a must-visit spot. According to the Hindu culture, in the ancient times, Gods dug out this lake with their fingers and nails while seeking protection from a demon. Nakki Lake is the first human-made lake which is believed to be 11,000 meters deep and a quarter of a mile wide. There is a boating facility at the Nakki Lake which gives visitors a great chance to enjoy the serene view of the lake. The lake is also famous for a different reason Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed in the same lake where Gandhi Ghat has been constructed. The fountains in the lake offer an enchanting view of the life at Mount Abu while you boat merrily. There is also Toad Rock on a hill nearby. These strangely shaped rocks are arranged in such a way that it resembles a toad about to jump in the lake. Additionally, there are numerous eateries in the area where you can enjoy a sumptuous meal after the pleasant boat ride.

2. Gadisar Lake, Rajasthan:

Enjoy the lush greenery on an early morning or evening boat ride at the Gadisar Lake, Rajasthan. This lake is one of the most precious assets for the locals and has been carrying the heritage and culture for generations. The first Maharaja of the city of Jaisalmer, Raja Rawal Jaisal, artificially built this lake in as a water reservoir for his people in the hope of solving the water crisis in the area. The Gadisar Lake is situated in the heart of Mount Abu and thus, boating around the lake offers a mesmerising view of the city while you can also spot the famous Raghunath Temple and Maharaja Jaipur Palace which are located in the nearby area. The lake is considered to be sacred and is worshipped by a local tribe known as Garasia.

You can also buy food from the stalls there and feed the catfish in the lake. The sight of the fishes flocking around you to grab a bite or two is intriguing as well as tad bit scary too. During winters, bird-watchers can engage in their favourite pastime as beautiful migratory birds visit the lake as the Bharatpur bird sanctuary is very close to the lake. 

3. Bedhaghat, Jabalpur:

A spectacle of nature, Bhedaghat is a town located in the Jabalpur district in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The marble rock boating area is breathtaking with the subtle hues and colours of the rocks and stones. With time, the Narmada river has carved a beautiful gorge of approximately eight kilometres. Rent a rowboat or a motorboat and go on a guided tour of the river. 

4. Kumarakom Backwaters:

A trip to Kerala is incomplete if you do not get to enjoy the tranquil serenity of the Kumarakom backwaters. A small town located in Kottayam district of Kerala receives thousands of tourists everywhere who come to live up their dream of spending time on a houseboat in the backwaters. A much-deserved break from the fast-paced urban lifestyle, the Kumarakom boating tours are therapeutic in an actual sense. The vibrant green cover contributed by the coconut plantations, and paddy fields all around make up for a soothing sight for the mind and soul. The most exciting part is these houseboats or Kettuvallams, as known in Kerala, are entirely built with eco-friendly materials. 

5. Dal Lake, Srinagar:

To go on a fascinating Shikara boat ride on the Dal Lake and live up the most captivating activity while you are in Srinagar. The awe-inspiring panoramic view of the lush green landscapes, the ripples forming on the lake water, flowering gardens, and the vibrant floating market will leave you enchanted. Shikara is a kind of a wooden boat made primarily out of deodar wood. The Shikara boat can also take you to the famous tourist attraction surrounding the Dal Lake such as the Shalimar Garden, Nishat Garden and the Hazratbal Mosque. The Shikaras also play a crucial part in the infamous floating market on the Dal Lake where the locals sell flowers, vegetables and handicrafts. So, while you reside in a Shikara houseboat, you can go shopping on your boat to the eye-catching hues on the floating boats which are a part of the market.

6. Hoganekkal, Tamil Nadu:

If you want to visit the Niagara Falls of India, head out to Hogaenakkal Waterfalls, Tamil Nadu, located at a distance of 200 kms from Bangalore in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. Famous for the spectacular waterfalls and hide boat rides, this major tourist destination offers fun boating and coracle rides. The waterfalls are divided; where the ones in Karnataka has numerous cascades whereas the part that lies on the Tamil Nadu side has picturesque gorges and boat rides. 

7. Ganga Ghat, Varanasi:

The sacred River Ganga is believed to have magical powers of having the potential to wash off one’s sins. Gliding through the water of Ganges to when the sun is rising or setting, you can experience the true essence of Varanasi. Visit the different Ghats which are connected to the land via waterways. Another major attraction is the Ram Nagar Fort, located on the opposite side of the river, which is the palace of the King of Banaras. The boat ride includes a mini-tour of the palace and the nearby market area and a visit to a Goddess Durga temple which was built 200 years ago.

8. Naini Lake, Nainital:

Making time on the water is among the favourite recreational activity during summers. This eye-shaped lake, located at the height of 1938 meters, offer boating as the major attraction for tourists who seek some entertaining activities at the hill station. There is also a Yacht Club at Mallital which offers yachting for the members and tourist alike. The exquisite beauty of the gleaming water, under the Kumaon Sky, can be thoroughly rejoiced only by a boating experience.

9.  Bhimtal, Nainital:

Bhimtal Lake in the Bhimtal Town is among the most famous lakes in India. There is an island in the middle of the lake which is an aquarium attracts visitors. The only way to reach the island is via boat. Visit the aquarium which has a variety of species that will leave you amazed. The Bhimeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is also located on the island. The C-shaped lake is situated at an altitude of 4500 feet, sprawling over an area of 47 hectares. The clear lake water a paradise for nature-lovers and photo-fanatics, the surrounding of the lake are well-maintained with eateries offering local delicacies in the area. Immerse yourself in the hypnotic tranquillity on a boat ride around the lake.

10. Unkal Lake, Karnataka:

A resplendent sunset at the Unkal Lake will leave you mesmerised. Go on a boat ride around the Lake and capture the ravishing sight in your camera to relive the moment time and again. This scenic tourist spot is situated at Unkal in Dharwad district. The Unkal Lake is 110 years old. There is a statue of Swami Vivekananda in the middle of the lake. Tourists can reach here by taking a boat the site. The beauty of the lake is a must-visit for nature lovers who could get some great shots at nature photography. There are recreational facilities for children around the lake premises.

A virtual tour to Kolkata’s famous visiting places

Kolkata was initially the capital of the British Raj, which means that several structures constructed by them during the pre-Independence era still stand strong along with other iconic ones in the city. From rajbari and museums to churches places, our City of Joy boasts of many beautiful heritage sites that you must check them out.

Now kolkata (calcutta) is capital of India’s West Bengal state. Kolkata is also known for architecture, art gallery, cultural festival.

1. Victoria Memorial :-

The Victoria Memorial is possibly the most awesome reminder of the Raj to be found in India. It is one of the famous and beautiful monuments of Kolkata.It was built between 1906 and 1921 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s 25-year reign in India. After the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, the British government gathered the reins of control of the country directly, and in 1876 the British parliament made Victoria the Empress of India. Her reign ended with her death in 1901.

    

Victoria Memorial

2. Maidan :-

Maydan is a massive green place trails, Riverside, picnic spot including some sports venu. The Maidan (literally, open field), also referred to as the Brigade Parade Ground,is the largest urban park in Kolkata in the Indian state of West Bengal.The Maidan is dotted with statues and architectural works, the most notable being the Victoria Memorial. For the greenery and refreshment this place known as ‘Lungs of Calcutta’. The property of the Indian Army, the Maidan hosts the army’s Eastern zone high command in Fort William.

Maidan, kolkata

3. Nandan :-

Nandan is one of the main venues of the Kolkata International Film Festival, hosting it till 2010. It is a government-sponsored film and cultural centre in Kolkata, India. The primary aim of the cultural hub is to encourage and facilitate cinematic awareness in society. While in 2011 the opening and closing ceremonies was shifted to Netaji Indoor Stadium, Nandan remains the main centre for the festival.The foundation stone of Nandan was laid by former Chief Minister of West Bengal Jyoti Basu in 1980[3] and it was inaugurated by film-maker Satyajit Ray on 2 September, 1985. Most favorite place of film lovers all around Kolkata.

Nandan, Kolkata

4. South Park-street Cemetery :-

The Park Street Cemetery was one of the earliest non-church cemeteries in the world, and probably the largest Christian cemetery outside Europe and America in the 19th century. Opened in 1767 on what was previously a marshy area, the cemetery was in use until about 1830 and is now a heritage site, protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The tombs are an admixture of the Gothic with a rich flavour of the Indo-Saracenic style. Of the latter, mention may be made of a unique and composite brick structure built in the ‘panchyatana’ manner, with a central dome flanked by miniature replicas of Orissan ‘rekha deul’ on four sides. Coupled with this peculiarity, the black basalt carvings on the frontal façade indicate a distinct respect for the Hindu faith.

South Park-street Cemetery, Kolkata

5. Dakshineshwar Kali Temple :-

The Dakshineswar Kali Temple was founded around the middle of the 19th century by Rani Rashmoni.Rani Rashmoni was a Mahishya by caste and was well known for her philanthropic activities. This temple is a Hindu navaratna temple located at Dakshineswar. Situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the presiding deity of the temple is Bhavatarini, a form of Parashakti Adya Kali, otherwise known as Adishakti Kalika.This temple is one of the most visited temple in Kolkata.

Dakshineshwar Kali Temple

6. Howrah Bridge :-

The Howrah Bridge is one of four on the Hooghly River and is a famous symbol of Kolkata and West Bengal.The Bridge is a balanced cantilever bridge over the Hooghly River in West Bengal, India. Commissioned in 1943,the bridge was originally named the New Howrah Bridge, because it replaced a pontoon bridge at the same location linking the two cities of Howrah and Kolkata (Calcutta). The night lightning of Howrah bridge is mesmerizing.

Howrah Bridge

7. Thakur Bari :-

Jorasanko Thakur Bari or House of the Thakurs (anglicised to Tagore) in Jorasanko, North Kolkata, West Bengal, India, is the ancestral home of the Tagore family. It is the place where Rabindranath Tagore was born and spent most of his childhood. It was built in the 18th century on the land donated by the famous Sett family of burrabazar to ‘Prince’ Dwarkanath Tagore (Rabindranath Tagore’s grandfather).The house has been restored to reflect the way the household looked when the Tagore family lived in it and currently serves as the Tagore museum for Kolkata.

Jorasanko Thakur Bari

8. Prinsep Ghat :-

Prinsep Ghat was located between the Water Gate and the St George’s Gate of the Fort William, the monument to Prinsep is rich in Greek and Gothic inlays. It was restored by the state’s public works department in November 2001 and has since been well-maintained.The Palladian porch in the memory of the eminent Anglo-Indian scholar and antiquary James Prinsep was designed by W. Fitzgerald and constructed in 1843.Prinsep Ghat is one of the oldest recreational spots of Kolkata.[4] People visit it in the evenings on weekends to go boating on the river, stroll along the bank and purchase food from stalls there.One of the songs in the Bollywood film Parineeta was shot here on the ghats.

Prinsep Ghat

9. Rabindra Sarobar :-

Rabindra Sarobar also known as Dhakuria Lake is an artificial lake in South Kolkata in the Indian state of West Bengal.The lake and the surrounding green cover occupy an area of 192 acres. The water body is of 73 acres while the green cover has an area of 119 acres. It has a unique bio diversity and attracts 107 species of birds, which includes 69 resident birds, 14 local migrants, 23 long distant migrants and one summer visitor. The green cover has 11,000 trees of which 7.500 are over 75 years old. Sometimes there was a opportunity of rowing in this lake for visitors. Many bangali films shooted in this place.

Rabindra Sarobar

After visiting all those place you will definitely agree with that – ‘Kolkata , The City Of Joy’.

Markha Valley – Ladakh’s Gem

Introduction

The barren but enchanting landscapes of Ladakh have many enthralling places to trek but arguably the best of them is the Markha Valley situated on the river of the same name. The Markha River is a tributary of the Zanskar river, who is the first major tributary of the great Indus River. It lies within the Hemis National Park just on the outskirts of the capital, Leh and the valley is the largest in the Union Territory. The River starts at the junction of Langtang and Nimaling with the villages along the river valley including Skyu, Hangkar, Rumbak, Yurutse and Markha.

The Route

Markha Valley is one of the most popular trekking routes in Ladakh. Leh is the starting point of this trek. The valley is accessible near Spituk in the west which is generally the starting point of the trek and Gongmaru La pass near Hemis, where the trek ends. There are many tiny hamlets present throughout the valley. The villages in the valley have preserved monasteries, temples and ruined forts. The Tacha Gompa is the most important Buddhist monastery in Markha Valley.

Views of the Heights

Kang Yatze
Stok Kangri

As the trail goes through Hemis National Park, all it’s cherished fauna, mountain sheep, rabbits and even snow leopards can be spotted. The majestic K2 Peak, Stok Kangri and the Kang Yatze peaks are visible from the valley. Even the region of Tibet is visible on a clear day.

https://www.trekthehimalayas.com/Markha-Valley-Trek/

https://wikitravel.org/en/Markha_Valley_Trek