It was about four and a half years ago when I visited Kuala Lumpur and a few other parts of Malaysia. I was 22 at the time. Life was very different. I had just completed my graduation in Saudi Arabia. But since the institute was affiliated with Binary University, Malaysia I would get my degree from there. We had the option of attending the graduation ceremony in Malaysia or staying in the Kingdom and getting our degrees sent to us.

It had been a long time since we had a family vacation abroad so we decided to attend the graduation ceremony in Puchong, Malaysia. The plan was to attend my graduation ceremony then spend a week or two more there to explore the country. We wouldn’t have enough time to visit multiple locations so we decided we would explore the capital Kuala Lumpur alone after the graduation ceremony.

From my graduation ceremony in Malaysia in 2018.

Weather in Malaysia

Its climate is said to be equatorial due to its location in close proximity to the equator. The weather is generally hot and humid throughout the year. The best time to visit the country is considered between December to April. However, since I couldn’t reschedule my graduation we booked our flight to Malaysia in August.

The Airport

We got down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport which was absolutely beautiful. A great piece of modern architecture, well built with all the millennial amenities. It even had see-through glass on its roof and upper parts of certain side walls through which you could see the sky and greenery outside which looked absolutely majestic. We then headed to our hotel. There was barely any energy left to do much that day so we decided to pack it in and call it a day.

The Graduation Day

A few days later was my graduation. Me and my buddy along with our families attended the occasion. It was an incredible feeling when your name gets called up and you walk on stage in the robe with the special hot on and receive the degree. We both were also part of the group photo as well. Afterwards, there was a dinner for the students that graduated and their families. We were treated to some incredible local cuisines and dishes. Apparently, seafood was in popular demand for the occasion. The food was great and so was the day.

The Rest of Our Trip

After the incredible graduation ceremony we had a week left to explore the capital. We visited numerous places there. The Petronas Twin Towers, Menara KL, the famous caves in Selangor, various malls, aquariums, etc. We even bought some memorabilia and some Malaysia themed clothing too.

Malaysian Culture

There were numerous parallels I could draw from the U.A.E., particularly Dubai. The architectural obsession with tall buildings and modern infrastructure, the presence of an Islamic culture owing to a muslim majority(however, freedom of religion is granted by their constitution) , presence of a large subcontinental populace, etc. The country possesses a very diverse culture and demographic.

Planning Our Trips

Food

We’d plan where to go the night before or sometimes early in the mornings, be out the whole day and retire back to our hotel room at night. We’d have dinner packed from a restaurant near the hotel and eat it in our room. As for during the day we’d go out at whatever restaurant or mall Kuala Lumpur had that we could find. Also, owing to the great number of subcontinental people living in the nation it was easy to find Indian food.

Transport

They even have an app service called ‘Grab’ for taxis which is basically a local equivalent of Uber. It is great for tourists as it has algorithms for price. Hence, lesser chances of being fooled with regards to taxi fares. It’s especially beneficial for families travelling together like it was for us.

Public Transport such as buses are a great option for individual travels as they cost less than cabs. They also normally have popular locations on their routes.

Sightseeing

Petronas Twin Towers

Coming to sight seeing, we visited the Petronas Twin Towers, which are also the world’s largest twin towers as well. It was near our hotel as well (In fact, we even had a view of the towers from our hotel room.) They were a marvellous spectacle to behold. It was a very popular attraction and many tourists were there with us. The observation deck is there on the 86th floor as well as the SkyBridge on the 41st floor to cross towers and admire the beauty of the city from an elevated viewpoint.

A side view of the Petronas Twin Towers from an elevated position.

Menara Kuala Lumpur

The Menara Kuala Lumpur also known as the Kuala Lumpur Tower was another attraction we visited. The tower was beautiful and we even visited the observation deck at the top. There was a long queue but we didn’t mind as that meant plenty of time to take lots of photos on the inside. We finally got on the deck. It was exhilarating as well as a bit scary. It was transparent so you could see all the way down. We took photos of the city from there as well as photos of ourselves on the deck.

A photo from on top of the Kuala Lumpur Tower.

Batu Caves

We also visited the Batu Caves. Outside it was a giant statue of Lord Murugan, right next to the thousands of staircases needing to be climbed to visit the caves(Okay they were only 272 as per the official numbers but still). There were Hindu temples in the region as well. The famous caves are made of limestone and are known for their beauty. Also there was a lot of greenery on the mountains and if I remember correctly a few monkeys too!

Other places we visited

We also visited a large Aquarium, the name of which I cannot recall at present. But it had a wide range of marine life from small, tiny fishes to big ones too. The aquarium fish were a treat to see. It was quite a long walk. We even visited numerous malls and shopping centres( though we didn’t really buy much we were mostly there to explore.) We were almost on a search to determine the best shopping mall Kuala Lumpur had to offer.

A photo of me at an aquarium in Kuala Lumpur( and an angry crab in the background)

Another one from our visit to the aquarium.

Final Thoughts

It was an amazing adventure, one which I never wanted to end but, alas, it did eventually. It concluded as any other trip to a foreign country, with a visit to the airport and a flight. It was a great holiday and I learned a lot not just about Malaysia or Kuala Lumpur but travelling in general. We may have left Malaysia but its memories definitely haven’t left us.

Author bio– I am Srishti Kapoor from the “Lowest Flight Fares”- A US-based online travel firm dealing with thousands of airlines to offer the best travel experience to our esteemed customers.

11 Best places to visit in Kullu Manali

February 25, 2023

Kash Pals

If you’re planning a Kullu Manali trip and searching all over the internet for the right Kullu Manali package but still unsure of which all places to cover, this list will help you finalize your itinerary and ensure you have an extremely memorable trip–

Solang Valley

This valley offers spectacular views of the mountain ranges along with a lot many adventure activities like skiing, paragliding, and zorbing as options for the adventurous traveler. Located on the banks of river Beas, Solang is around 12 km away from Manali and is a beautiful getaway amidst lush greenery and milky white snowy mountains.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is around 4000 meters above sea level and is very popular among trekkers. Be prepared to be blown off by the mesmerizing view of mountains and glaciers while here! Skiing and sledge rides are also possible options for the adventure inclined. However, if you’re planning to visit this valley, keep in mind that it remains open only from April to October every year. Due to heavy snowfall, after October, the entry is restricted and permission for trekking can only be given by the Indian army once the snow in the area is fully cleared. When you are finalizing your trip & booking your Kullu Manali package, you might find that Rohtang Pass is not included in the itinerary by most of the tour operators due to permit issues & green tribunal regulation, but you make sure to visit the Rohtang Pass by paying on-spot to your taxi driver (unless you don’t want to regret for rest of the life).

Bhrigu Lake

This beautiful lake which is rightfully known as ‘Pool of the Gods’ is extremely popular amongst trekkers and attracts a number of visitors each year. Bhrigu Lake is located at a height of around 14,000 ft in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh and is around 6 kilometers from Gulaba village. It is one of the most scenic lakes in this region and can only be reached via a moderately difficult high altitude alpine lake trek which takes 2 days to cover. However, the hike is absolutely worth it and in case, you’re even slightly adventurous, must not be missed!

Hadimba Devi Temple

This temple situated atop a hillock was built in 1553 and is surrounded by thick forests. It is dedicated to the mythological demon goddess Hidimba who was also the wife of the Pandava Bhima from the Mahabharata. The distinctive architectural style of the temple is something that catches the attention of every visitor. Its structure is primarily made of wood which further adds to the uniqueness of this temple. The temple also hosts an annual festival called ” Dhungri Mela,” which is attended by thousands of devotees and tourists. Hadimba Devi Temple is one of the must-visit temple destinations in Himachal Pradesh and a significant cultural and religious center in the region.

Manikaran Sahib

It is famous for its hot springs and the revered Gurudwara (Sikh temple) dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. According to legend, Guru Nanak Dev Ji and his disciples visited this place in the 16th century and were unable to light a fire for cooking due to the absence of firewood. However, a miracle occurred when the Guru thrust his stick into the ground, and hot water and flames started to gush out, providing enough heat for cooking. The hot springs at Manikaran are believed to have healing properties and attract numerous visitors seeking spiritual and physical rejuvenation. The Gurudwara also provides langar to all visitors, irrespective of their religion or caste, which is a hallmark of Sikhism’s egalitarian principles. Manikaran Sahib is not only a religious center but also a popular tourist destination, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, trekking opportunities.

Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass is a high altitude mountain pass located in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. The pass connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul Valley and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. The trek to Hampta Pass is popular among adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, and it usually takes 4-5 days to complete. The trail passes through lush green meadows, dense forests, and barren landscapes, offering a diverse range of landscapes to explore. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Hampta Pass, which stands at an altitude of 4,270 meters above sea level. The pass is usually open for trekking from June to October and offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for trekkers.

Parvati Valley

The valley is named after the Parvati River, which flows through it and is surrounded by the towering peaks of the Himalayas. Parvati Valley is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, serene ambiance, and spiritual significance. The valley is dotted with numerous villages, each with its unique culture and traditions, making it an excellent destination for those interested in exploring local cultures. The valley is also famous for its hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties and attract visitors seeking rejuvenation. Parvati Valley is also a popular trekking destination, with several trekking trails leading to high altitude passes and glaciers, such as the Kheerganga trek and the Pin Parvati Pass trek. The valley is also home to several temples and spiritual sites, such as the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara and the Parvati Temple, which are revered by locals and tourists alike.

Malana Village

Malana Village is a small, isolated village located in the Parvati Valley. The village is known for its distinct culture, language, and customs, which are believed to be different from the rest of the country. Malana is famous for its high-quality hashish, which is derived from the cannabis plants grown in the surrounding hills. The village has strict rules and regulations regarding the use and sale of cannabis, and visitors are advised to respect these rules. Malana is also known for its unique architecture, with houses made of stone and wood and intricate carvings on the doors and windows. The village is surrounded by stunningly beautiful mountain landscapes and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The trek to Malana is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views of the Parvati Valley and the Himalayan peaks. However, visitors are advised to be respectful of the local culture and traditions and follow the rules and regulations of the village.

Kasol

The village is situated on the banks of the Parvati River and is surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains. There are many popular tourist destinations in Kasol, known for its natural beauty, serene ambiance, and vibrant culture. The village is a hub for backpackers and adventure enthusiasts, offering several trekking trails and outdoor activities such as camping, rock climbing, and rappelling. The village is also known for its lively music scene, with several cafes and restaurants offering live music performances and jam sessions. Kasol is also famous for its Israeli cuisine, with several cafes serving Israeli dishes such as hummus, falafel, and shakshuka. The village is a melting pot of cultures, with visitors from different parts of the world coming together to enjoy the scenic beauty and the vibrant ambiance of the village.

Vashisht Hot Water Springs

The village Vashisht is at a distance of approximately 5 kilometers from Manali and is situated across the River Beas. It is famous for its sulphurous Hot Water Springs and is hence, a popular attraction among tourists. These springs can also be enjoyed in privacy at the Turkish-style bath-houses that are available here. Apart from these hot water springs, this village is also famous for its stone temples.

Jogini Waterfalls

These breathtaking waterfalls are located beyond the Vashisht Hot Springs towards the Vashisht Village which is another major tourist attraction near Manali. You will have to climb a little to reach here, however, tea and snacks that are available along the way will aid you to reach the waterfalls. Once here, soak in the beautiful melody of the waterfalls as well as the natural scenic beauty all around you!

These are some of the many beautiful places in and around Kullu Manali to include for your holiday package. Now that you know about them, with so many options available, where are you going for your trip next?

Best Places to visit in Ooty for couples

February 21, 2023

Kash Pals

Travel Within India No Comments

Honeymoon is the journey of your life that will remain in your heart and etched in your memory. A trip with your best spouse should then be exciting, thrilling, hilarious, and, of course, romantic! An experience where you gaze into each other’s eyes as you stand under the beautiful night sky with music playing.

They can also visit the famous Ooty Lake, Government Botanical Garden, and Doddabetta Peak. With a variety of accommodations available, including luxury resorts, budget hotels, and homestays, Ooty packages cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo trip, Ooty is a great destination to explore, and packages make it easy to plan and book your adventure.

Ooty Botanical Gardens | micah craig | Flickr

1. Explore The Charming Botanical Gardens

The Government Botanical Gardens are an absolute sight to see. Amid all that beauty surrounding you and your partner, it’s hard not to be enthralled by the romantic setting to celebrate your wedding in Ooty. These botanical gardens can be separated into six areas: Lower Garden, New Garden, Italian Garden, Conservatory, Fountain Terrace, and Nurseries.

Each section consists of an exotic variety of grass, flowers, and some uncommon plants. There are over 300! It’s amazing, right? This is the perfect location for a romantic getaway with your partner in Ooty with your spouse to unwind and enjoy each the company of each other.

Nilgiri Mountain Train | At one of the stops on the Nilgiri … | Flickr

2. Take a train ride along The Nilgiri Mountains

It is the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) is a delight for people who enjoy the sounds of steam engines and wish to go back to their childhood, but at this point with your best half. This Nilgiri Mountain Railway can be one of the most popular attractions at the station. It runs starting from Mettupalayam to Ooty or Udagamandalam through Coonoor and then finally to Nilgiri. Hills of Nilgiri.

The train was constructed by The British Raj in the year 1908; the Nilgiri model train was the first rack railway in the country. It was designated to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. It gives visitors an amazing view of Ooty’s hill stations, with an added bonus of the stunning natural surroundings of the tracks. So, taking a trip on this train amid the green hues during your wedding day at Ooty will be a wish that comes to life!

3. Take a few Temple Tours

Mariamman Temple Mariamman Temple is a famous temple dedicated to the goddess Mariamman often linked to Kali. The temple is located close to the market in Ooty and is famous for its mythology of the two goddesses during the day of the Sun, Tuesday, and also the Ooty Mariamman Temple festival. The architecture of the temple is stunning and is based on Dravidian Architecture, which is extremely pleasing to the eye. As the new chapter in your life of you begins, it’s important to look for blessings.

4. Rose Garden

The garden is located near the slopes the Elk Hill located in Vijayanagaram, Ooty; this garden is a visual delight. The stunning rose garden spans an area of 10 acres. It is home to a vast collection of roses from India, including floribunda, hybrid tea roses and black and green roses, and so on.

The area is vast and beautiful, the right location to spend quality time with you and just. The garden also won the Excellence Award

for the best garden in South Asia. A captivating sight to share with your beloved on your wedding day in Ooty.

5. Cool off And Camp Near the Emerald Lake

Emerald lake, Ooty — Emerald Lake, Ooty | HDR | Rosh PR | Flickr

Emerald Lake is located in the middle of Ooty located, near the Emerald village in those blue hills that make up Nilgiris. The lake provides a stunning and breathtaking view to admire and relax as the soothing breeze takes your mind away from all the stress. It’s also a wonderful place to camp, and you will experience amazing chills at night. Therefore, it’s a great place to make a stop when you are on the honeymoon you are planning in Ooty.

6. Tibetan Market & The Upper Bazaar Shopping Spree

It is a must to visit the Tibetan Market is a popular tourist attraction, both local and tourist, and is a fantastic location to buy woolen clothes for affordable prices. A comfortable outfit you are on your honeymoon is essential. It is a must to have a comfortable and comfy outfit. Upper Bazaar is well known for its spices like jeera, chilli, and nutmeg. It is also an excellent shopping destination for foodies. It’s not like shopping stops at all, not even on your honeymoon.

7. Take a sip of your favorite tea at The Tea Museum

Heaven for tea-lovers The Dodabetta Tea Factory, along with the Museum located in Ooty, is a wonderful opportunity to get to know more about your drink of choice early in the day. The tour starts with the live-plucking of tea leaves and the process of drying and tea machines in operation, such as Rotorvane. The Tea Museum is comprised of three main sections on Tea History, which include the Origins of World Tea, Tea history in India, and the Evolution of Tea in the Nilgiris.

Tea factory Ooty — Day 231 – Tea Factory – PhenoMenal World

Ooty is a perfect destination for a honeymoon due to its serene natural beauty and romantic ambiance. This picturesque hill station in Tamil Nadu offers couples a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy each other’s company amidst breathtaking landscapes. With its misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and sprawling tea plantations, Ooty sets the perfect backdrop for couples to create unforgettable memories. Visitors can take a romantic stroll around Ooty Lake, explore the stunning Botanical Gardens, or take a scenic train ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The Ooty honeymoon packages for 2 days offer a range of accommodations, including luxurious resorts and cozy cottages, ensuring that couples have a comfortable and unforgettable stay. Whether you want to relax and unwind or go on an adventure with your loved one, Ooty is an ideal honeymoon destination.

Jaisalmer Tour Package To Bring Charm of Desert Life

February 8, 2023

Kash Pals

Travel Within India No Comments

A Jaisalmer tour package can provide you with an opportunity to explore the golden sands of the desert, admire the ancient fortresses, and experience the traditional lifestyle of desert dwellers. From camel safaris to desert camping, from traditional Rajasthani meals to folk music and dance performances, a Jaisalmer tour package has it all to bring the charm of desert life to you.

Jaisalmer, located in the heart of the Thar Desert, is a city that promises to take you on a journey through the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Rajasthan. Known for its desert landscape, Jaisalmer is a popular tourist destination that offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and culture.

Discovering The Magic Of The Thar Desert With Jaisalmer Tour Package

Thar Desert IC: Daniel Mennerich https://www.flickr.com/photos/danielmennerich/

Discovering the magic of the Thar Desert in Jaisalmer is an experience that will stay with you forever. The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is the largest desert in India and one of the most fascinating landscapes on earth. Jaisalmer, located in the heart of the desert, offers visitors a chance to explore the vast expanses of sand dunes, witness the unique desert flora and fauna, and experience the traditional desert lifestyle of the locals. A Jaisalmer tour package can include camel safaris, desert camping, and traditional desert activities such as folk music and dance performances. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, the Thar Desert in Jaisalmer is a must-visit destination.

Exploring The Sand Dunes Of Jaisalmer On A Camel Safari

A camel safari in Jaisalmer is a must-do activity for anyone looking to explore the vast expanses of the Thar Desert. The city of Jaisalmer is known for its sand dunes, and a camel safari is a perfect way to experience the beauty of the desert up close. The camels are led by experienced guides who will take you on a journey through the desert, stopping at points of interest along the way. The camel safari can take you to some of the most beautiful spots in the desert, such as the Sam Sand Dunes, where you can enjoy the sunset and watch the colors of the desert change.

Thar Desert, Jaisalmer
IC: Ninara Flickr

Additionally, you can also take a short detour and visit the local desert villages, where you can get a glimpse of the traditional desert life and culture. Camel safari is an exciting way to explore the desert and you can also take part in traditional desert activities like folk music and dance performances, making it an unforgettable experience. The best way to enjoy all these experiences is by taking a Jaisalmer tour package.

The Ancient Desert Fortresses Of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is home to some of the most ancient and well-preserved fortresses in the desert region. The Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the “Sonar Quila”, is one of the most famous and impressive fortresses in the city. The fort is a living fort, and inside its walls, you can find a maze of narrow lanes, Havelis, and temples. The fort offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region and it’s a great place to explore. A Jaisalmer tour package is an excellent option to explore these ancient fortresses in Jaisalmer is an excellent way to gain an understanding of the history and culture of the desert region. It’s a must-see attraction for any history buff or culture enthusiast visiting the city.

Another ancient fortress in Jaisalmer that can be included in your Jaisalmer tour package is the Nathmalji-ki-Haveli, a beautiful haveli that was built in the 19th century by a wealthy merchant. The Haveli is known for its intricate carvings and is a great example of traditional desert architecture.

Conclusion: A Mesmerizing Desert Experience With Jaisalmer Tour Package

In conclusion, Jaisalmer is a destination that offers a unique and mesmerizing desert experience. From camel safaris to exploring the sand dunes, and ancient fortresses to gain an understanding of the rich history and culture of the region, and desert camping to get close to the natural beauty of the desert, Jaisalmer has it all. The city is a perfect blend of adventure and culture and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Jaisalmer is sure to leave a lasting impression. With a Jaisalmer tour package, you can experience the charm of desert life and create memories that will last a lifetime.

An Epic Malaysian Adventure

Weather in Malaysia

The Airport

The Graduation Day