Travel - Best Places of Interest

November 18, 2016 Travel, Within India

Discover the Historical Era of the Rajputs

Rajasthan had a rich historical era of the Rajputs which can be seen in the majestic forts and palaces that are well conserved. Rajasthan comprises of the alpine and jagged south-eastern region and the unproductive north-western Thar Desert that extends across the border of Pakistan.

Here, you can find historic cities, incredible fortresses with legends and rare beauty like Udaipur. Puskar with its holy lake and the desert city of Jaisalmer allures many tourists every year. No wonder then, Rajasthan is a prime tourist destination where you can cherish priceless memories. Let us check out these destinations in detail.

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajputs, Rajasthan (Image courtesy-commons.wikimedia.org) — Jaisalmer Fort
(Image courtesy-commons.wikimedia.org)

Jaisalmer– The city is renowned for the golden fort that is made of yellow sandstone in the Thar Desert. Rawal Jaisal, a Rajput King established this city. Jaisalmer Fort is situated on the hill with its wall blending into the contours of the hills.

Gadsisar Lake – Picnic spot ideal for a getaway and is famous for boating. There are small temples surrounding the lake.

Pushkar is among the oldest cities in India. Legend associates it with Brahma’s creation. The word ‘Pushkar’ in Sanskrit means blue lotus flower. It is a holy place for the Hindus who come here for salvation.

Puskar fair – This fair is one of the largest cattle fairs in the country which is held in the month of October or November. It lasts for 5 days. Camels in this fair are cleaned, washed and decorated with jewelry of silver and beads. The fair is held for trading and the best camels get awarded in different categories. Camel safaris in Puskar, take tourists to rural areas where they can see crop harvesting.

Udaipur– Situated in the hills of the Aravallis, it is a ‘city of Dawn’ as it is a land around the water lake.

Lake Pichola- This scenic lake is surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats and two island palaces, Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas, give an awesome view.
City Palace is a majestic architecture over the lake on a hill which is fenced by walls of courtyards, pavilions, terraces and hanging gardens.

Other places to check out in Udaipur are Chittaurgarh, the fortress of Kumbhalgarh, lovely Jain temple of Ranakpur, Eklingji, and Nathdwara. Mount Abu is a cool retreat not to be missed.

Bikaner– This city is renowned for its camel rides. The city is dotted with many sand dunes and camels are prime helpers here who pull carts loaded with grains. The forts and palaces look magnificent with their reddish-pink sandstone and reflect their historical and architectural legacy.

Junagarh Fort (wikipedia.org) Rajputs, Rajasthan — Junagarh Fort
(wikipedia.org)

Junagarh Fort– It is built from red sandstone and marble carvings and paintings. This fort was constructed by Raja Rai Singh. Within this fort, one can find palaces. Sun Gate is the main entry point to the fort. Other palaces, Chandra Mahal, Karan Mahal and Phool Mahal are worth a visit. This fort has a museum with miniature paintings and rare antiques that are precious.

Lalgarh Palace (commons.wikimedia.org), Rajputs, Rajasthan — Lalgarh Palace
(commons.wikimedia.org)

Lalgarh Palace– A juxtaposition of Oriental and European style luxury is fascinating, in this splendid fort built of red sandstone. It was created by Sir Swinton Jacob for Maharaja Ganga Singh in the pre-Independence era. This palace comprises of a billiard room, a library, cards room and a smoking room. To further add charm to this place are Belgian chandeliers, cut glass ornaments, oil paintings, and lamps.

So, go ahead and discover the historical era of Rajputs at these places!

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November 14, 2016 Travel, Within India

Awesome Rajasthan

‘Rajasthan’, when one hears this word, one visualizes the land of deserts, palaces, and camels. Rajasthan with its ancient culture and civilization has made a name for itself throughout the world and not only in India. Tourists from across the globe throng this state of Rajasthan. So what is it that captures the mind of people across the globe and India? This article shall take you through the places of interest in Rajasthan.

Arts and crafts in Rajasthan — Arts and crafts

Countryside or rural Rajasthan– A few unusual places to explore in Rajasthan that otherwise might have gone unnoticed by you. Bishnoi and Pali are becoming hot spots for people who want offbeat destinations in Rajasthan. People who are adventurous should not miss Bishnoi. Bishnoi is a community of nature worshippers. It just takes around 45 minutes to reach this destination from Jodhpur. The place of Bishnoi offers diversity in terms of weather conditions, religious convictions, language, civilizations, and attires. It has the world’s second-largest desert THAR. You can take the Bishnoi Village Safari which is organized by Rajas and Maharaja of Jodhpur. This will allow a foretaste of the rich cultural life of their state of Marwar. The safari is usually one day or half day where one can enjoy the sight of snow, rainforests, giant Himalayas, and long and beautiful seacoasts.

Jaipur– Jaipur city should not be missed by the adventurous traveler because you can take the ‘Hot Air Balloon Adventure’. In the ‘Hot Air Balloon Adventure’, one can explore the Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, and aerial view of Jaipur and Hawa Mahal. The duration of the hot air balloon ride is 60 minutes. The hot air balloon ride can be taken over Amber (near Jaipur). Jaipur which is often called the ‘Pink City’ comprises palaces and forts which have magnificent views and ornate architecture. The tourists here can enjoy the remnants of a bygone era of the monarchy in its glory. Some heritage hotels in the city are transformed from old palaces to give tourists a regal experience.

Ballooning over Jaipur, Rajasthan — Hot air balloon ride

Udaipur– Another attraction for tourists is the city of Udaipur. Udaipur is known for its Lake Pichola and City Palace. It is constructed skillfully with a military architecture of Rajput and Mughal style ornamental methods combined together. The museum of this displays many royal heirlooms, family photos, and other mementos which give you the feel of the culture and royalty of Maharanas of Mewar. The Museum consists of Mardana Mahal and Zenana Mahal which are King and Queen’s palaces respectively. It was constructed in 1559 and is the ancient and prime part of City Palace. Jag Mandir is another palace not to be missed which is one of the foremost palaces to be constructed in Lake Pichola. Lake Pichola is simply breathtakingly beautiful.

Udaipur palace, Rajasthan — Udaipur Palace at night

Pushkar– This place attracts adventurous backpackers and hippie types. Puskar comes alive in the month of October/November with Camel Fair. The camels are dressed up and paraded. The icing on the cake is definitely the camel races, although the comical beauty contests which feature elegantly decorated and shaved camels are amusing. In addition to this, there is temple dancing, folk and classical music, and an arts and crafts bazaar as well. And, last but not least; the fair would be incomplete without a mustache competition!

So what are you waiting for quickly plan your trip to the colorful, vibrant, and awesome Rajasthan!

Cherish Your Holiday by Visiting Rajasthan

You may like to read Cherish your holiday by visiting Rajasthan

November 7, 2016 Travel

Solo Traveller

Traveling is indeed, a wonderful teacher and the best entertainer. It makes me an improved person and enhances my horizon of thinking. It enables me to handle unforeseen challenges, makes me flexible, adaptive and follows the flow. It makes me a dreamer and gives me the vigor to take the road less traveled.

Traveling is living, loving, learning and changing. It’s my life. I breath when I move. It makes me feel alive and rejuvenated. I truly feel my existence when I am on a journey. Traveling is my only dream and I can do anything to live this dream each second, every day, throughout my life.

“The more you wander, the more you wonder” unknown

Well said, I could not agree more on this.

Source: The Soaring Spirit: Confessions of a Traveler

By traveling alone, you can celebrate your independence and flexibility. It is your opportunity to decide for your own. There will be no conflicts, nor complications. Make this experience something to remember for a lifetime.”

Some people are afraid to travel, especially first-timers; however, this is an opportunity in life that everybody should try even once in their lifetime. You may feel hesitant and afraid at the start, but with the proper planning and preparation, you will realize that there is no reason not to continue. Below are some survival guides that may help you on your first solo travel.

Feel good about yourself.

Your attitude has a major impact on everything that you do. Before leaving, invite a positive energy. Think that the best will come and happen. Smile at strangers, be positive, build a new friendship, meditate, pray, go around, explore and seize each moment.

Learn to make friends.

This is an opportunity to be independent and make self-reflections; however, you should also learn to connect with other people if you really do not want to be alone during your entire trip. It could be with the locals, your roommate or other travelers. There is nothing wrong being with strangers; however, you should know your limitations and how to protect yourself.

Refrain from over spending.

Since you are alone, you need to stick to your budget. If you run out of money, there is no one that you can get help with.

Stay safe and alert.

Safety and security will always be the most necessary. Know safety precautions, especially if you are a woman. Be safe when taking a cab or bus, when you go to bars or whenever you go to public spots. Refrain from going to dark and unguarded places. Do not give personal information to strangers.

Celebrate life.

Source –Survival guide of the solo traveler.

I agree that one must “Celebrate life.

These are some of the views expressed on Solo traveling by fellow bloggers.

Voyaging on your own is without a doubt a radiant ordeal. It offers you amazing chances to meet individuals, comprehend diverse societies, a bit of “personal time”. Nonetheless, to appreciate the delights of voyaging on your own as a woman, you should take measures to secure yourself and your things.

Here are a few tips:

Don’t indiscriminately trust outsiders even though she is a woman.
Try not to acknowledge drinks from outsiders or other inn visitors.
As a solo traveler, it is imperative that you stay in contact with your family, relatives and close companions, so they are in know you are protected.
Leave a copy of your personal details with your close individuals (family). Send them messages all through your travel telling them where you are presently and where you will be.
It is better to have a ‘cell phone power pack’ in case your cell battery runs out in the event of any crisis.
Be that as it may, don’t utilize the phone while strolling or driving, as you ought to depend on and be attentive to your environment.

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We, as women, often contemplate before we go on a voyage on our own whether the place is safe to visit before going there. Ladakh is one such safe place for a woman who wants to voyage on her own. Ladakh is a dream destination for someone who loves traveling. It has remarkable geographical features.

Nubra valley (Image source-flickr.com), Solo traveller — Nubra valley
(Image source flickr.com)

Delightful Gompas, framed by fluttering prayer flags, friendly locals and the mesmerizing Pangong Tso Lake. Some of the most well-known spots to visit in Ladakh are Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and Nubra Valley.

Shanti Stupa,Leh,Ladakh, Solo traveller — Shanti Stupa,Leh,Ladakh

In the event that Ladakh intrigues you, then, here is the way you can chalk out your travel trip-transportation, accommodation, nourishment, and water.

Transportation – You arrive at Delhi. At that point, you have numerous buses that will take you to Manali. Pick a bus that will reach Manali early morning. While in Manali you can freshen up and have a reasonably priced meal. You can buy snacks and water bottle for the onward journey. From Manali, you can take a bus to Leh. There is a stopover at Keylong. At Keylong, you can have Momo for dinner. For commuting in Ladakh, the only option you have is to hire a shared taxi/van. You will get more information about booking at New Bus Stand in Leh. People of Ladakh are hospitable and will be glad to help you out.

Accommodation– Homestays have started in villages in some of the trekking areas, generating income for the villagers and also reducing the strain on the ecosystem caused by camping. Trekkers on trekking routes in Hemis National Park can use homestays as they trek from village to village. Trekkers could meet local people and experience Ladakhi culture and lifestyle. Three meals a day, bedding and safe drinking water are provided.

Local people basically tend to their own particular personal concerns and don’t trouble travelers.Undoubtedly, it is a prevalent visitor destination for women voyaging alone. Given the high altitude, travel light and practice general caution as you would at any other destination.

Do share your comments and feedbacks about traveling solo. 🙂

November 2, 2016 Round the world, Travel

5 Amazing Natural Wonders in Sydney

Although Australia is young compared to some other countries in the world, it is rich with history and home to one of the oldest cultures in the world, the Indigenous Australians,

Sydney is a city full of natural wonder and beauty, from its luxuriously pure beach shores to its wild bushlands filled with amazing and exotic creatures big and small in stark contrast to its glamorous urban city centre.

Check out some of the best natural wonders in Sydney below,

Best natural wonders in #Sydney

The Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains in Australia — The Three Sisters overlooking Jamison Valley, Blue Mountains, NSW. Image credit- http://focus.tracinglight.com/

The Blue Mountains are a huge tourist attraction in Sydney. A favourite with nature lovers, adventure seekers and families, the Blue Mountains has one of the most amazing views in the world. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the tablelands by cable car or the world-renowned scenic railway. There are also several bushwalks in the region so you can get up close and personal with the historic area.

Burragorang State Conservation Area

The Burragorang State Conservation Area is one of Sydney’s best national parks and is the source of 80% of Sydney’s water. Found on the Blue Mountains escarpment, you can soak up of the amazing natural beauty from the Burragorang lookout point above the Warragamba Dam with a chance to see some of Australia’s famous wildlife. There are also quiet lanes for bike riding and a great picnic spot.

Bradleys Head

Bradleys Head is well-known for its picturesque views of the famous Sydney waterfront, where you can get a spectacular view of the iconic Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and Fort Denison. There’s also ideal picnic spots by the lookout and events on at the Bradleys Head Amphitheatre and a gentle bushwalk from Taronga Zoo Wharf to Chowder Bay that is perfect for adventurers of all ages.

Bare Island Fort

Australian legend Captain Cook first discovered what we now know as Bare Island in 1770 before a fort was made to protect Sydney in the early 1880’s. The Bare Island Fort stayed in operation until 1908 before becoming home to Australia’s war veterans. The island boasts idyllic views of La Perouse and the surrounding areas are popular with scuba divers and snorkelers across New South Wales.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

A firm tourist favourite, the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is one of the most stunning trails in the world. The walk is 6km long and takes roughly two hours to finish at a leisurely pace, but there are numerous cafes, bars and restaurants to stop off at along the way before ending the trip at the fabulous Coogee beach. The walk passes Tamarama, Bronte and Maroubra before finishing up at Coogee, and depending on the season there is a chance to see some cool art at the Sculpture by The Sea exhibition in between Bondi and Tamarama.

*/A guest post by Oliver Burke. /*

Image credits