Category: Travel

Located in the Leeward group of Society Islands of French Polynesia, Bora Bora Islands is in close proximity to another famous destination Tahiti Islands. Known for the aqua centric luxury destination that are developed as a part of eco tourism to allure newlyweds from around the globe. The iconic over water bungalows webbed on the vast stretches of lagoon gives a feeling of fantasy come true. With many choices of activities such as water sports, treks, helicopter ride or just read your favorite author to choose from Bora Bora has something for everyone.

Your dream journey to Bora Bora starts right from the moment you enter the air space of this beautiful archipelago on board your flight. The picturesque views of Mount Otemanu on the little islet of Bora along with the blue lagoon and the white sand beach are breathtaking. If a traveler wishes to visit Bora Bora by the sea, they can arrive in style by the luxury cruise that will pamper you to your soul with their compassionate and courteous services on the cruise.

The locals have built a web of these beautiful small over water bungalows that provide all types of luxuries and amenities possibly available any tourist destination. The best part of some of this accommodations is they have glass bottoms where you can witness the crystal clear water and the rich marine life that Bora Bora is famous for.

The island is full of surprises when it comes to natural beauty and reserved habitats. Since this place of the earth is known to be explored the last on earth, the stunning landscapes are mostly untouched. Twin mountains of Mount Otemanu and Pahia are formed out of volcanic caldera and are best for treks and mountain safari on jeeps

A perfect lagoon destination, Bora Bora offers some of the most exotic and resplendent experiences of water sport. Snorkeling, Scuba diving and swimming in and around lagoons of Bora Bora are the must do activities. Many local operators can help you with the unique experiences of diving with manta rays and sharks that are easily found in this part of the world.

There are some other experiences like Aqua Safari, Aqua Biking and Keishi Lagoon tour that travelers can opt for to make most of your stay at Bora Bora.

It is one of the rare destination that is sure to make a huge dent on your pocket. No matter how hard you try to save you will be quick to realize that Bora Bora is either expensive or indescribably expensive. But this pricey destination makes sure to repay you with all of its heart. The perfect combination of ambiance and service will be hard to match in any other destination of the world and will stay in your conscience for a lifetime.

The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the dry season that runs from May to October. The rains in these islands are unpredictable and can go on for long hours. During the dry season which is also the peak season, the water stays mildly warm which is perfect for swimming. Since this is a French Polynesian country, the main language here is French, and the other language that has great influence of Bora Bora is Tahitian although most locals have a good understanding of English.

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*/For further details do check out source: Bora Bora Island – a Dreamy Affair – bookaHotel.in/*

Discover the Golden Triangle of India

July 22, 2015

Kash Pals

‘Golden Triangle’ consists of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur as the tourist destinations in India.

Golden triangle of India in the map of India

International Travellers begin their journey from Delhi by arriving at the main airport, Indira Gandhi International Airport, a state-of-the-art airport.

Inside Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi international airport

Delhi– Lal Qila or Red fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is made of red sandstone in the 17^th century by Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. The fort held a strategic place of power in the Mughal era.

India Gate-It is an important landmark in the Indian capital. Sir Edwin Lutyens designed it in 1931 during the British rule. British soldiers who fought in World War were commemorated here. After independence, the Indian government has redesignated the monument for ‘Unknown Soldier of the Indian Army’ in memory of Indian soldiers who have lost their lives in wars.

Qutub Minar– It is the tallest brick minaret on earth at 234 feet high from ground level. It was built to celebrate Muhammad Ghori’s victory over Rajputs. It is made of sandstone and has inscriptions of verses from the Holy Quran. The complex comprises of a large area with many ancient and medieval structures that lie in ruins.

Mughal Gardens in Delhi– It covers over 13 acres of land and is a renowned garden in Delhi. It is a fusion of British Garden concept and Mughal style. The gardens consist of Mughal style fountains, terraces and canals. Beautiful flowers like Bougainvillea, roses, sweet William, Marigold, viscaria and many more can be found here.

Rail Museum of Delhi– Situated in Chanakyapuri is a popular haunt for rail fans. Here you can see old train engines and coaches. The first train with a steam engine that covered Bombay to Thane in 1853 is the pride of this Rail Museum in Delhi. A miniature rail track ride is an attraction for tourists with kids in the museum.

Agra– Situated in the eastern point of the renowned tourist destinations called Golden Triangle that includes Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Agra has one of the Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage site, Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal is not only beautiful from outside but also charming from the inside. Flowers in marble can be seen decorated on its walls. Stone work is par excellence and speaks volumes about the skilled workers of the era.

Fatehpur Sikri– It was constructed by Akbar to celebrate the victory over a Rajput Emperor.

Fatehpur Sikri (https://www.flickr.com/photos/hectorgarcia/322050866) — Fatehpur Sikri

Jama Masjid– It is constructed in the complex of Fatehpur Sikri and the entry is through Buland Darwaja.

Anup Talao– It is a red sandstone water pool with a platform that has a raised seat in the middle.

Jaipur– the capital city of Rajasthan is popular among the tourists. The city is bounded by beautiful hills and mountains. The pink-painted and beautiful architecture gives the city its name- ‘Pink City’. Architectural tours, palaces, fabulous food and gardens allow the tourist to immerse in the local culture. Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amber Fort and Jantar Mantar are worth checking out.

So, go ahead and discover Golden Triangle of India today!

Monsoon Getaway

July 9, 2015

Kash Pals

Travel Within India 2 Comments

With the onset of monsoon, we planned a trip to the hill station. We decided to go to Lonavla in Maharashtra. The lush green hill station springs to life during the Monsoon season. Lonavla is blessed with waterfalls, lakes and greenery.

By Road

Lonavla is set on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and is well-connected to several towns in Maharashtra such as Karjat, Dabhade and Khopoli.

Copyright image – 8769 (please do not use without permission)

By Rail

Lonavla is well-connected by train as well. Local trains from Pune stop over at Lonavla and trains plying between Mumbai and Pune also stop at Lonavala. The nearest railway station is the Karjat Railway station.

Lonavla is a perpetual favourite for those travelling from Mumbai to Pune or vice versa. This hill station is an ideal weekend getaway and is not too far from two big cities-Mumbai and Pune. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Lonavala is situated at a height of 625 metres above sea level and promises a truly unique, hill-station experience.

Once in Lonavla, you have these picturesque sites. If you are the adventurous kind you can go trekking in these waterfalls.

‘Lonavla’ derived its name from ‘Len’ and ‘Avali’ that roughly translates to ‘the resting place of stones’. It is said that the Mughals used this beautiful hill-station as a strategic location against their rivals. In 1871, Lonavla and Khandala, another hill station were discovered by Lord Elphinstone.

Little friend in Lonavla eating corn

Our little friends on the side of the hill.

We also went to the Bushi dam which overflows in the monsoon. This hill station is also well-known for its production of hard candy (chikkis).

We had these wonderful chikkis on our way back.

Walnut chocolate fudge is simply amazing.

While returning home in the rains, we also sang this lovely song.

All, in all it was wonderful monsoon getaway.

*/Copyright images. Please do not use without permission.*/

3 Offbeat sites in South India

June 5, 2015

Kash Pals

Travel Within India 4 Comments

India is a country with many destinations worth exploring for a holiday. I shall focus on 3 offbeat sites in South India. Here is an insight into the unexplored, offbeat sites of Kodaikanal, Coorg and Yelagiri.

Kodaikanal is situated in the hills of taluk division of the Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu in India. It is also known as the ‘Princess of Hill stations’. The climate is pleasant and the best time is April to June and from September to October.

Berijam Lake (Img. courtesy-commons wikimedia.org) — Berijam Lake
(Img. courtesy-commons wikimedia.org)

• Berijam Lake– the most beautiful lake in South India is 21 km from Kodaikanal. The lake has pure water and is the main resource of water for Periyakulam, that is located in the valley below Kodaikanal. Pine forest surrounds this lake where ‘magic mushrooms’ can be found in abundance. It is an excellent trekking route, but one has to be careful as there are wild animals like bison and leopard.

Kodai Lake (wikipedia.org) — Kodai Lake
(wikipedia.org)

• Kodai Lake The lake is beautiful and contributes to the picturesque hill station of Kodaikanal. It is in a shape of a star and has been artificially constructed over an area of 60 acres.
There are other places worth visiting here like Bryant Park, Kurinji Temple, Flora and Fauna Museum, SilverCascade Falls and Subrahmanya Temple.

Coorg– Located in the state of Karnataka, is a charming place with its range of hills, coffee plantations, and sweet oranges. Coorg has a lot to offer an adventure tourist with its high hills and valleys for amazing trekking experience. Coorg can be approached from 3 states of India; Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Beautiful coffee plantations can be seen here.

Coffee plantation in Ammathi, Coorg (pixabay.com) — Coffee plantation in Ammathi, Coorg
(pixabay.com)

• Jungles of Coorg: Poisonous snakes can be spotted in the jungles of Coorg. Green snake and a viper resting on the leaves is an awesome experience. You can also find cardamom plantations. The atmosphere is peaceful.
• Dubare Elephant camp: You can take an elephant ride in Dubare. Dubare elephant camp lets you explore them closer and watch elephants.
One could stay in Kodagu valley which is a secluded place away from the commotion of Madikeri town. A stay in Coorg or Kodagu valley is different in many ways; weather, the people, the greenery, the smell of spices….

Coorg-Kodagu (indianjaunt.com) — Coorg-Kodagu
(indianjaunt.com)

Yelagiri– it is situated in the state of Tamil Nadu near the leather town Vaniambadi, Jolarpettai Railway station around 20 kms and from Tiruppattur around 27 kms. Yelagiri is not a renowned tourist destination in South India Holiday packages like Ooty, Munnar etc. but is worth exploring. The tall hill is visible from other hills in the surroundings as you cross Vaniambadi. Yelagiri Hill is located at a height of 1050 meters above sea level. Some renowned spots for sight-seeing at Yelagiri Hills are

Yelagiri Lake (commons.wikimedia.org) — Yelagiri Lake
(commons.wikimedia.org)

• Punganur Lake span across 57000 square meters is an ideal place for boat riding.

Nature Park (commons.wikimedia.org) — Nature Park
(commons.wikimedia.org)

• Nature Park has plenty of trees, walkways, beautiful lighted fountains, flower gardens and a fish aquarium.

Yelagiri Hills Adventure Camp, amazing bird nest

• Trekking at Yelagiri Hills: trekking assistance is given by Tourist Information center at Yelagiri. Some of the trekking options worth checking out are – information center to Sunset Point 2km, Puthur to Perumadu Waterfalls -3km, Nilavur to Jalagamparai-6km. A visit to Yelagiri is quite enjoyable and refreshing.

So, go ahead and check out these offbeat destinations and have a wonderful time!