Sunday 9 August 2020

Best 10 Cafes In Chandigarh

Indian Coffee House – 224, D, Sector 36

Indian Coffee House is one of the oldest and good cafes in Chandigarh. Loved by all and easy on pocket, this cafe is known for its simple yet super tasty food. 

Hours: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm

Average cost for two: INR 200

Must try: Dosa, pakoda, coffee, tea, and Infusion






Café Mocha IT – Elante Mall

Hours: 9:00 am to 9:30 pm

Average cost for two: INR 300

Must try: Multigrain khichdi and Keema Pav





 Great Times Cafe – Sub. City Center, Sector 34


Hours: 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. Remains closed on Sundays.

Average cost for two: INR 400

Must try: Mix sauce pasta, margarita burger, and dark chocolate shake

Reviews






 Midpoint Café – Sector 21C

Hours: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm

Average cost for two: INR 400

Must try: Garlic bread, mushroom sandwich, and virgin mojito





Honey Hut – Sector 22

Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 PM

Average cost for two: INR 550

Must try: Honey cappuccino, Honey iceberg and donuts. Those who have a sweet tooth must try the molten honey balls.





Books N Brew Chandigarh – Sector 16D

Hours: 9:00 am to 11:00 pm

Average cost for two: INR 600

Must try: Honey chilli cauliflower






 Lords Café – Sector 16D

Hours: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm

Average cost for two: INR 800

Must try: Veg extreme toast, calzone, pituria, hot chocolate and hazelnut cappuccino




Backpacker’s Café – Sector 9 D

Hours: 8:30 am to 11:30 pm

Average cost for two: INR 1200

Must try: White sauce pasta, panini sandwich, ala sicilians pizza, chocolate brownie and masala coke




Café Nomad Chandigarh – Sector 7-C

Hours: 11:00 am to Midnight

Average cost for two: INR 1500

Must try: Baklava, mezze platter, chicken shish taouk, spinach fatyar, laban with mint, muhammara






F Café Chandigarh – Madhya Marg, Sector 26

Hours: 9:00 am until midnight

Average cost for two: INR 1200

Must try: Crusted chicken alfredo pizza, SanDiego fries, blueberry pancake, strawberry shake



Saturday 25 July 2020

Best 10 Beautiful Places To Visit In Uttarakhand


1. Dehradun And Mussoorie – Picturesque Location


Why: ‘Coz there are only a few amazing weekend getaways like Dehradun and Mussoorie

Ideal for: Peace lovers, honeymooners, family and friends

Best time to visit: All around the year
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days
How to reach: It takes around 5 hours to reach Dehradun from Delhi via road. From Dehradun, Mussoorie is just an hour journey away. The nearest airport is in Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport
Things to do in Dehradun: Visit the National Parks, Lakes, Kempty Falls, Benog Hill & Jwalaji Temple. Monastery, Resorts and Forest research institute in Dehradun
Places To Stay: Ramada Dehradun Chakrata Road, AruBhi Cottage, Hotel Relax, Tapasya Home Stay, FabHotel Invitation




2. Nainital And Ranikhet – Popular Getaway



Why: The lush green sight of Nainital offers an exotic view of the Himalayan ranges. Enjoy the trekking trails in Ranikhet and go camping in the main sight of the location.

Ideal for: Honeymoon couples, office goers, couples and families
Best time to visit: All around the year
Ideal duration: 4 to 5 days
How to reach: Nainital does not have direct access to air connectivity. The nearest railway station is located at a distance of 34 km at Kathgodham. It takes about 7 hours from Delhi to reach Nainital.
Things to do in Ranikhet: Visit the host of temples at Ranikhet, go trekking, and visit the Nainital zoo and Naini Lake. Enjoy the wildlife sanctuary and the wonderful climate of the hill station.






3. Jim Corbett – Wildlife Heaven



Why: Coz this is the place you can’t miss if you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer and nature lover.
Best time to visit: All year-round, except Monsoon (June to August)
Ideal for: Nature enthusiast, photographers, excursionists
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days
How to reach: Ramnagar is the nearest railway staion while Dehradun Airport is the nearest airport. It is well connected by road and there are regular bus services from Ramnagar and Delhi.




4. Rishikesh And Haridwar – Adventure Capital



Why: Rishikesh as it is the adventure capital of India; Haridwar for the tranquility and religion.
Ideal for: Everyone – friends, couples and families.
Best time to visit: Anytime of the year is good except monsoons.
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days

How to reach: Nearest airport is in Dehradun. Trains connect both Rishikesh and Haridwar.
Things to do in Haridwar: Take part in the Ganga aarti in Haridwar, a holy dip in the river Ganga, go for a boat ride, eat the local delicacies and talk to the spiritual gurus. Visit the ashrams in Rishikesh; go for water sports adventures in Rishikesh and trekking up in the hills.




5. Auli – Ski Enthusiasts



Why: Visit to Auli is highly recommended to mountain lovers. The mountain sports activities can be enriching to the spirit of an adventure sports lover.
Ideal for: Mountain lovers, friends, couples and ski enthusiasts.
Best time to visit: April – June and November – February for snow
Ideal duration: 5 days
How to reach: The nearest airport to reach Auli is located in Dehradun. Nearest railway station is also at Dehradun located at a distance of about 6 hours from Auli.





6. Valley Of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib – Paradise For Nature Lovers



Why: Visit this place to combine your vacation with a blend of nature and spiritual worship.
Ideal for: Families and couples
Best time to visit: July to September
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days
How to reach: Jolly Grant airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 149 km from Hemkund shrine. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh.
Things to do: Visit the valley of flowers, trek, go to Hemkund shrine.




7. Chardham (Yamnotri, Gangotri, Badrinath And Kedarnath) 



Why: It is considered to be one of the holiest pilgrimage sites according to the Hindu mythology.
Ideal for: Religious Travellers and tourists seeking an insight into Hindu Mythology.
Best time to visit: Anytime throughout the years except monsoons
Ideal duration: 5 to 6 Days
How to reach: Badrinath and Gangotri are accessible by road. The remaining two destinations of Kedarnath and Yamnotri require extensive trekking. There’s also a Himalaya Darshan helicopter service that allows people to cover the trip in two days. Nearby railway station is at Rishikesh. From there on, tourists will have to hire a vehicle or bus service to reach the site.
Things to do: Spiritual pilgrimage, visit the temples, and enjoy the hilly areas.





8. Uttarkashi – Quaint Hill Town


Why: this place is a must-visit to rejuvenate yourself inside out. It is not only for religious travelers but also attracts non religious tourists due to the various adventure activities it offers.
Ideal for: Religious travelers and adventure enthusiasts
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal duration: 1 to 2 days
How to reach: the nearest airport and rail connectivity to UTtarkashi is Dehradun. The best option is to take bus which regularly ply from major cities of the country.




9. RudraPrayag – Land Of Confluence


Why: To witness the beautiful confluence of rivers, Visiting the two pilgrimages – Kedarnath and Badrinath
Best Time To Visit: April-December
Ideal For: Religious tours, nature lovers
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
How To Reach: The nearest airport is the Dehradun airport from there people can hire a taxi or cab to reach here.
Things To Do: Exploring the temples and witnessing nature’s beauty




10. Rajaji National Park – Explore The Wilderness


Why: Wildlife
Best Time To Visit: Nov-Jun
Ideal For: Wildlife and Naturelovers
Ideal Duration: 1day
How To Reach: Rajaji National Park is accessible from Haridwar, Garhwal and Dehradun via many buses and taxis. Dehradun is just 21 km away from the park whereas Haridwar is around 43 km. You can also take a taxi.
Things To Do:  Jeep safari, Explore the Wildlife


Saturday 11 July 2020

7 Best Adventure Sports In Darjeeling





Whitewater Rafting: Some Water Treatment

White water river rafting in Darjeeling is extremely popular and the best adventure activity. The river Teesta and Rangeet are two rivers that flow down the Himalayan mountains and create the magical white water which has different rapids and stretches. They are excellent for rafting when you think about both the beginner and the seasoned rafting. Teesta river operates around 50 rafts during the season. This river rafting has two starting places. One is Melli and the other one is Triveni.

Cost of river rafting:  Check with the tourism office




Trekking: High Up The Mountains

Trekking is the simplest, but the most adventurous activity among all the adventure sports. Sandakphu trek starts at a place called Maneybhanjang or Chitrey. Sandakphu and Phalut are the peaks of trekking spot. You have to go for this trek during spring because this is the time the majority of the trees have colorful flowers. You will find the forest covered with rhododendrons and magnolias. If you are trekking in winter, you can actually expect some great snow here. 

Cost of Sandakphu Phalut Trekking: INR 1,200



Mountain Biking: Ride Around The Valleys

Another offbeat adventure sport in Darjeeling is mountain biking from Ghum to Siliguri. If you are looking to explore great terrains and some adventure, then this is for you. Your journey starts from Ghoom and the a ride to the Pashupati market. You will then cycle for 58 km straight and take the night’s rest at Mirik. The next morning, you ride through Mirik to reach Dudhia for another 52 km. Then, you reach Siliguri when the activity ends.

Cost of Mountain Biking: INR 4,500


 
Zorbing: A Unique Adventure

If you are looking for funny adventure sports in Darjeeling, then definitely go for Zorbing. This is a rare sport which entails you to secure inside a soft plastic ball and roll over the hills. And if you are touring with family, then your kids will love it. Spin around the lush meadows of Darjeeling while the crowd cheers and has fun but not more than you.

Cost of Zorbing: INR 300 – 600




Safari: Adventure Of A Lifetime

The Singalila National Park is just 36 km from Darjeeling. Can you hear the jeeps inside the park? If not, then visit the park and grab a seat in a jeep. For safari comes and lets you explore Himalayan wildlife including the beloved Red Panda. In terms of flora, you will be amazed by the acres of ferns, magnolias and orchids. Wait, there’s more – there is a portion of the park from where you can clearly get a peek of the Kanchenjunga snow peaks. Safari is one of the most  underrated adventure activities in Darjeeling.

Cost of Safari: INR 1,000



Camping: Across The Open Meadows

Spending the nights in the vicinity of nature and the wonder of the Himalayas is an experience you will never forget. You will consider it to be one of the best adventure activities in Darjeeling when you enjoy the mesmerizing views and landscape. There are plenty of spots for camping like Tonglu, Gairibas , Kalipokhri, Molley, Gorkey and Srikhola. This is a slightly different experience than any other as the areas are pretty remote and might be tough for newbies.  

Cost of Camping: Contact local operators





Hot Air Balloon: Capture Delightful Sights

Afraid of paragliding and the brushing air? But would like to fly in the air. Here’s one of the best adventure sports in Darjeeling where you can explore the valleys and hills of Darjeeling by riding in a hot air balloon. Under the canopy of a brightly colored parachute, you will be sitting and enjoying your ride. Needless to say, it would be the most royal experience for you. Very seldom do you find such an experience in India.

Cost of Hot Air Balloon: INR 1,500



 


Saturday 20 June 2020

The 10 best things to do in Bali



The top things to do in Bali make it by far the most popular for visitors of Indonesia, and for many good reasons. The tropical hideaway manages to be an adventurer seeker’s paradise, a spiritual sanctuary, a family friendly getaway, a food lover’s paradise and a surfer’s oasis all at once.

The top things to do in Bali make it by far the most popular for visitors of Indonesia, and for many good reasons. The tropical hideaway manages to be an adventurer seeker’s paradise, a spiritual sanctuary, a family friendly getaway, a food lover’s paradise and a surfer’s oasis all at once.

Gili Islands

What is it? A tiny three-island archipelago offering the perfect tropical escape from the already idyllic mainland.

Why go? Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air each offer crystal blue waters, diving, cooking classes, cultural experiences and more. Trawangan is mostly a destination for backpackers (think of it as the party destination) while Gili Meno Air is more accommodating for couples and families. You’ll need to get to Padang Bai harbour, before taking a fast boat to the islands, which takes around 90 minutes.


Mrs Sippy

What is it? A Sydney bar export, home to Bali’s largest saltwater pool.

Why go? While Bali’s beaches may offer great surf breaks, rock cliff sides and stellar sunsets, if you just want to enjoy being by the pool you’ll want to head to Mrs Sippy. They’ll serve you swish fruity cocktails on day beds to a soundtrack of international DJs and house music.






Tanah Lot Temple

What is it? A temple combining the cultural, natural and historical elements of Bali in one spot.

Why go? The Hindu temple has long been a pilgrimage site thanks to the temple being steeped within a stunning rock facade by the sea.




Tegenungan Waterfall

What is it? A popular waterfall, located in the lush forest just outside of Ubud.

Why go? A 15-minute trek through the forest will reveal a huge waterfall, complete with a thudding cascade that drops around 15 metres. It’s a powerful fall, so don’t expect to be wading underneath it. Instead, view from the rocky surrounds or take a dip in the catchment




Bali Swing

What is it? Best described as an adults playground, this jaw-dropping jungle surrounding is not only home to vegetation galore, but 12 oversized swings that flutter you over incredible panoramic views. 

Why go? Not only does it make for a great Instagram shot, but there's an unavoidable air of nostalgia about Bali swing. With swings ranging from 12 metres to a whopping 78 metres, it's a slice of high-altitude fun (but don't worry, you’re all buckled 



Morning Light Yoga Studio

What is it? Stretch out and realign yourself at this beautiful open-air yoga studio located in Uluwatu.

Why go? They host drop-in classes and mats are provided, so all you have to do is show up. You’ll be guided through a one and a half-hour class, where your left and right are replaced with instructions to pose towards the ocean or the jungle. After class you’ll get an ice cold coconut, and can chat with the super friendly teachers about their tips for the area.





La Plancha


What is it? A beachfront bar on Seminyak’s main beach.

Why go? There’s loads of rainbow-coloured umbrellas and cushions on which you can relax and watch the sunset over the ocean, cocktail in hand.





Surfing at Dreamlands


What is it? Bali has long been a surfer’s haven and for good reason – there are awesome waves year round.

Why go? This break located near Uluwatu is a great place to surf for both experienced surfers and when the swell is smaller is suitable for beginners, as it breaks over sand instead of rocks or coral.



Bumbu Bali


What is it? A cooking class that includes a trip to the local markets.

Why go? Eaten your body weight in satay, nasi goreng and ayam bakar? It’s worth booking into a cooking class so you can learn the skills behind creating tasty Indonesian meals at home. Bumbu Bali combine a trip to the local markets with a cooking class, where you’ll learn the key components of Indonesian cooking, including mastering curry pastes, banana leaf grilled meats, fiery sauces and specialty desserts.


Bali Training Centre

What is it? An open-air studio specialising in high-intensity fitness classes.

Why go? Drop in for a heart-pumping kickboxing session or a muscle-testing kettlebell class, where trainers will show you techniques and push you to your limits. It’s also attached to the Cashew Tree, a terrific café that’s the perfect reward for a post-training feed.




Sunday 31 May 2020

Discover 5 Incredible Rain Forests In India


Andaman And Nicobar Islands

The best example of a tropical evergreen forest in India is found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. What makes this place all the more special is the large variety of flora and fauna. The Andaman Islands have rare plant and animal species that are believed to have passed on from other nearby countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, and Bangladesh

Best Places To Stay For A Wildlife Experience: Barefoot at Havelock, Pristine Beach Resort, Diglipur
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Places To Visit: Havelock Island, Diglipur, and Baratang



Assam

The most isolated, dense, and unspoiled rain forests in India can be found in the Assam region of Northeast India. Although the forests are majorly in Northern Assam, traces of the same are found in Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura. The rainforests in the Assam region are characterized by low-lying hills that have a dense forest cover throughout the year and an average height of 900 meters.

Best Places To Stay For A Wildlife Experience: Resort Banalata, Padmini Resort, Tinsukia
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Places To Visit: Kaziranga National Park, North Cachar Hills, and Dibrugarh



North Western Ghats Moist Deciduous Forests

Found mostly in Maharashtra and Karnataka, a stretch of moist deciduous forests can be found in the northern part of the Western Ghats covering a total area of around 30,000 square kilometres. The rich and dense forest cover starts from Southwestern Maharashtra and extends as far as Karnataka and Kerala in South India.

Best Places To Stay For A Wildlife Experience: Bandipur Safari Lodge, Bison River Resort
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Places To Visit: Eravikulam National Park, Silent Valley National Park, Chandoli National Park, and Kudremukh National Park





South Western Ghats Moist Deciduous Forests

While Maharashtra and Karnataka are known as the North Western Ghats, it is Kerala and Tamil Nadu that comprises South Western Ghats Moist Deciduous Forests. The entire region of the southern country is covered in the lush green foliage and divided into two categories. The South Ghats are famed for being the most endemic and species-rich regions in the entire Deccan peninsula. The large animals such as Tiger, Gaur, and Elephants reside and roam around freely in this natural habitat of theirs.


Best Time To Visit: October to March
Places To Visit: Kodaikanal, Valparai, Mattupetty, Lovedale, and Meghamalai



Brahmaputra Valley Semi-Evergreen Forests

Brahmaputra Valley is the pride of the North Eastern region of this country. While some parts are in West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, this valley is majorly situated in the state of Assam. Valley is home to the Semi-evergreen forests and is home to the most alluvial soil in the country, and hence are considered as the most productive regions in India. Apart from the lush greens, this Valley is also known for being home to stupendous flora and fauna.


Best Places To Stay For A Wildlife Experience: Wild Grass Lodge, Risong Guest House
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Places To Visit: Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaziranga National Park, and Manas National Park


Saturday 30 May 2020

9 Enthralling Adventure Sports In Kerala




Parasailing

Kerala is known for its diverse water sports, and parasailing is one of them. The famous adventure sports in Kerala involve water sport that is indulged in sea side and beach resorts. This is where the sailor gets strapped to a particular parachute that is attached to a motor boat.

Ideal for: Youth, friends, adults
Best Time: October to March
Cost: 3500 INR
Location: Kovalam and Alappuzha Beac




Cycling and Biking

Cycling and biking are the ideal ways to experience the spectacular beauty of the surroundings. Munnar is widely known for the coffee plantations and Nilgiris that is popular for spice plantations. While cycling, you can also experience the aroma the two different places.

Ideal for: Youth, friends, adults
Best Time: November to March
Cost: 500 INR onwards
Location: Kottayam to Vagamon, Chalakudy to Valparai, Devikulam to Munnar, Alappuzha to Changanassery



Trekking

Trekking is another popular adventurous sport in Kerala that is best enjoyed in Thekkady while walking along the tiger trail. Trekkers can find expert professional guides that help them spot animals on their walking trail along with dense forests. 


Ideal for: Kids, adults, and youth
Best Time: September to March
Cost: Starts from 500 INR
Location: Chembara Peak in Wayanad, Kolukkumalai and Meesapulimala in Munnar, mountain ranges near Thenmal



Tree House Stay

Tree house is one among several best adventure sports in Kerala that is quite unique in. It is an exquisite way of settling right in the middle of the nature. You can cherish nature from up close by stay a night or two in the tree house where you can get a view of the enticing forest which has a taste of its own.

Ideal for: Kids, couples and families
Best Time: September to March
Cost: 4000 INR to 18000 INR per night
Location: Wayanad, Munnar and Thekkady



Kayaking

To know the culture a bit closely, you need to practise kayaking. There are varied kinds of kayaking opportunities available for the visitors to avail from. The backwaters offer an incomparable beauty that is beauty in its truest form. You can witness dense foliage, which can be thoroughly enjoyed through a kayak tour

Ideal for: Kids, friends and families
Best Time: September to March
Cost: 1500 INR for a first timer and 1000 INR for an experienced individual
Location: Alaphuzza Beach



Snorkelling

Explore the water kingdom at Thiruvankulam, a suburb of port city Kochi while indulging in snorkeling. It is indeed a treat for the water enthusiasts who can find several canals and lagoons in the proximity along with an abandoned quarry that is filled with accumulated water


Ideal for: Kids, friends and family
Best Time: September to March
Cost: Starts from 1000INR for 30 minutes



Wildlife Safari: Exploring The Wild

Kerala is a land that offers something for everybody and similarly if you are an animal lover who wants a bit of an adventure, wildlife safari is ideal for you. Along with its spices, Kerala is also rich in its flora and fauna. By offering a deep sense of peace, it will help you be aware of protecting the natural beauty. 


Ideal for: Kids, friends, and families
Best Time: June to October
Cost: 10 INR per person and 100 INR for foreigners



Bamboo Rafting

Bamboo rafting is one among several top adventurous sports in Kerala that you simply cannot afford to miss in Kerala. Among all locations, Thekkady is the most desired one, which offers an extravagant eco-tourism program

Ideal for: Kids, friends and families
Best Time: October to March
Cost: 2500 INR per person
Location: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady




Mountain Climbing

Although Kerala is situated in the southern part of the country, however it has an amalgamation of everything. Apart from pristine beaches and backwaters, it is also surrounded by mountains that are enjoyed by mountain climbers. Tourists who fancy mountain climbing love visiting Kerala to try their hands on the sport

Ideal for: Youth and adults
Best Time: November to April
Cost: 500INR per adult
Location: Rajamalai, Eravikulam National Park, Analudi Peak, Munnar


Best 10 Cafes In Chandigarh

Indian Coffee House – 224, D, Sector 36 Indian Coffee House is one of the oldest and good cafes in Chandigarh. Loved by all and easy on pock...