Best Places of Interest - Page 30 of 181

August 26, 2019 Travel, Within India

Monasteries with most beautiful architecture in Sikkim

The north-eastern state of Sikkim is one of the most beautiful states of India. Added as the 22nd state to the Republic of India, Sikkim was once ruled by the royal family of Sikkim. Sikkim is home to the world’s third-highest mountain peak – Mt Kanchenjunga.

The stunning Himalayan mountain, ecstatic cultural diversity, organic living, atmospheric calmness, and close-to-nature surroundings bring travelers from around the world to this stunning state. Buddhist Monasteries of Sikkim nestled on the hilltop of mountains are homes for spirituality that drive a lot of travelers to unleash the stress of their city lives.

The stunning architecture, colorful interiors, prayer chants and serene silence of these Buddhist monasteries of Sikkim is an overwhelming experience. While some have become a center of learning for the children, others are dedicated to prayers and chanting of Lord Buddha. Here are some truly revering monasteries with the most beautiful architecture in Sikkim!

Rumtek Monastery

One of the largest and most important monasteries in India – the Rumtek Monastery is at a distance of 25kms from the Gangtok city. Celebrating the Tibetan culture in its design and outlook, this beautiful monastery was built in 1960 as a seat of the Karma Kagyu Lineage. Ever since the 12th Karmapa reached Rumtek Monastery after leaving his Tibet Seat, this monastery has become a religious activity center of the Buddhist and is also called by the name Dharmachakra Center. At any point of time, the monastery if full of learners and people chanting in its arena which makes the visit quite serene and connecting. With lush greenery on the background, the colorful appearance of the monastery invigorates the eyes and is a pleasant experience.

Lachung Monastery

Overlooking the large snow-capped mountains of Sikkim, the Lachung Monastery is located at the Indo-Tibetan Border village of Lachung. Built-in 1880 at an elevation of 3000 meters over the convergence of two tributaries of Teesta River i.e. Lachung and Lachen, this monastery in north Sikkim belongs to Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Holding a quaint presence in the silent surroundings of the hills, the monastery is popular for its Buddhism prayers and activities that keep ringing in the air of the place. With colorful flags, Tibetan architecture, and picturesque beauty, the monastery is a stunning visit at about 118 km from Gangtok. One of the popular traditional mask dance performance is held every year at Lachung Monastery.

Ralang Monastery

One of the newest additions to Sikkim Monasteries – the Ralang Monastery is one of the biggest monasteries in Sikkim made with the intricate art of Tibetan architecture. A short ride away from Ravangla (South Sikkim), this monastery combines the traditional values of Buddhism by following the Tibetan Buddhist Traditions and brings along a stunning beauty of the colorful exterior. With Mountains on the background and colorful Tibetan architecture on the front decorated with Tibetan flags, Sikkim Tourism is incomplete without visiting this monastery as it is known for its extensive collection of paintings, and thangkas. Owned by Kagyu Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the monastery is known to hold an annual festival Pang Lhabsol where the Kagyed Dance is performed by the Buddhist monks. It is one of the popular tourist destinations to visit in Sikkim.

Permayangtse Monastery

An important religious center on the hilltop of Peiling, the Permayangtse Monastery is located at an elevation of 2085 meters. Holding to the beauty of its 300-year-old structure, the monastery is in the highlight of golden and white with stunning Tibetan art and architecture. The pillars are inscribed with ancient manuscripts and the whole interior is a woodwork art making it a serene and blissful experience. The arena is also covered with Buddhist flags and greenery. While the monastery celebrates Buddhism faith and breathes into silent nuances of the Tibetan prayers, it also offers a panoramic view of the whole valley with a peak of snow-capped Mount Kanchenjunga.

Dubdi Monastery

Built-in 1701 A.D. the Dubdi Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim. At a short distance of 3kms of the town Yuksam (West Sikkim), this monastery is located on a hilltop at an elevation of 6900 meters. The monastery is popular for its statues of the three lamas and close-to-nature beauty. Designed much in line with the Tibetan monasteries, the colorful structure with woodwork, intricate Tibetan scripts, colorful additions, and stone-carved statues is quite an enchanting visit. Being one of the oldest monasteries belonging to Nyingma Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the monastery holds firm the beliefs of the Buddhist traditions and thus is quite a destination to know the Tibetan culture up close.

Phodang Monastery

Being a part of the three monasteries build in the 1960s under the guidance of the 9th Karmapa of Karma Kagyu lineage, the Phodang Monastery with Rumtek and Ralang is one of the must-visits in Sikkim. The murals, relics, artifacts and artistic design of the monastery capture the essence of the old-age Tibetan cultures. The Phodang Monastery resonate beauty with its colorful but intricate architecture, wooden dome, and scripts from the Buddhism beliefs. It is one of the popular learning centers too.

Tashiding Monastery

Built by Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phunsok Rigzing and founded in 1616 the Tashiding Monastery is widely popular for its beauty and architecture. Ngadak was one of the three holy men said to hold the crowning ceremony of the first king of Sikkim. Today the monastery belongs to Nyingma Sect and is also one of the most pristine and stunning monasteries of Sikkim. On the top of a hill, the complex of Tashiding Monastery is known to have several Buddhist Shrines (Chortens) within the complex. The never-ending chants of the Tibetans here keep the surroundings filled with blissful vibrations making the experience of a visit to this monastery a truly satisfying one.

Sikkim being Buddhism inspired state experiences a lot of Tibetan architecture, and lifestyle. To connect with the life of Sikkim, and unleash in a serene surrounding these monasteries are a perfect getaway. Make the most of your vacay in Sikkim by spending a day learning the Buddhist Culture and traditions in one of these celebrated monasteries.

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August 23, 2019 Travel, Within India

Things to experience during monsoon in Himachal

Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful state situated in northern India. It can be easily and fondly referred to as the Switzerland of India and it is often called ‘Devbhumi’ or ‘the land of Gods’. Himachal Pradesh has the best of nature with its sleepy old towns, some of them painted with colonial colours, sparkling streams, gushing waterfalls, holy temples, artistic monasteries, snow-capped mountain ranges and thick forested valleys and meadows.

Along with the pristine natural beauty combines the unbroken peace and solitude that makes Himachal Pradesh an idyllic tourist destination. The rain-washed fresh beauty and wet, misty air that abounds make Himachal in the monsoon season an absolutely enticing getaway. The mountain ranges and forests of Himachal Pradesh look stunning in monsoon. The streams and rivers getting fed by monsoon waters gurgle down with more furore.

Dramatic Dharamshala

Dharamshala is an enchanting land of Lamas and scintillating monasteries. Dharamshala is internationally acclaimed as Dalai Lama’s residence. It is situated at an altitude of 1,775 metres. Dharamshala is cosily shrouded by a thick curtain of ancient, misty, towering Deodar trees.

The sleepy town exudes peace and calmness that sets your soul at peace. The Bhagsunag waterfalls of Dharamshala pumps up and roars down with an extra force and is a pleasure to visit during the monsoons. Visit the greenery of the Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang Complex of Dalai Lama Temple, Norbulingka, St. John in the Wilderness, his Holiness the Dalai Lama Temple and the mesmerizing Dal Lake.

Kasol

Kasol is famed as the ‘Little Island of Israel’. It is a captivating place in the Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh and a delight to visit in monsoons with friends and family. This hill paradise is located on the banks of the charming river Parvati and will bewilder you with its serene beauty. Feel the beauty of the village dressed in fresh green and enjoy the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, binge on authentic Israeli cuisine, go shopping along the Kasol streets and try the famous rice beer. Stroll along the picturesque banks of River Parvati which swells up in the monsoon season and unwind in the best manner possible.

Shoghi

Nature lover’s haven Shoghi attracts travellers during monsoon with its deep cover of giant pine and oak trees. The beauty of Chadwick Falls in monsoons is mesmerizing. This fall is locally known as Chidku (bird) Jhaar (waterfall) which depicts the height of the waterfall as it is believed that the upmost level can only be reached by a bird.

Situated just 13 kilometres from the capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, Shoghi was once the summer capital of British India. The Kalka-Shimla Heritage Toy Train connects Shoghi very comfortably to the other big cities. And the toy train ride to Shoghi is an experience in itself.

Khajjiar

Khajjiar is an extremely relaxing destination of Himachal Pradesh for a vacation during monsoons. Khajjiar’s beauty arises from the majestic mountain ranges and dense deodar forests that surrounds this hill town. So impeccable is its beauty that Khajjiar is often referred to as ‘The Mini Switzerland of India’.

This impeccable town is the home to the famous ancient Khaji Nag Temple established in the 12th century. Khajiar’s exquisite charm is enhanced by the emerald coloured, placid Khajjiar Lake that fills to the brim during monsoons and creates a dreamy haze. The lake blushes with monsoon waters and the reflection of the majestic mountain ranges and forests on the waters adds to the charm. Chamera Lake too contributes to the monsoon glory of Khajjiar.

Mashobra

Drink in the freshness and natural beauty of Mashobra, a lush green expansive meadow at a height of 7700 metres perched on the higher altitudes of Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh. Breathe in the crisp and clean mountain air, explore the valley leisurely and visit the Mashobra Reserve Forest Sanctuary which is a bird watcher’s haven and enjoy wildlife.

Try to locate chikor or the partridge hiding behind monsoon greenery and discover the magic of this fairyland. Taste the jams, squashes and pickles infused with the local flavours of Mashobra and have a fun filled monsoon vacation.

Shimla

Shimla, the regal capital of Himachal Pradesh, exhibits a rich colonial history and culture. It is justly called the Queen of Hills and possesses a majesty mixed with old-world charm. Monsoon vacation in Shimla translates to discovering the sweet aromas and flavours of Himachal dishes, shopping at the bustling streets of Shimla malls and bazaars, taking in the breath-taking view of nature and its splendour and carving out a dream vacation in monsoons.

Step out to explore the famous Christ Church, gorge on best of classy food at the jazzy restaurants and cafes. The steaming hot coffees and yummy snacks to go with it will make monsoon delightful in Shimla with a perfect view of the snow-capped Himalayas and the surrounding greenery.

Mcleodganj

Mcleodganj is an enchanting place to visit in Himachal during the monsoon season. This mountain paradise known as ‘Little Lhasa’ or ‘Dhasa’ has a large bunch of Tibetan population and contains some of the best monasteries in India. Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang are worth visiting to enjoy the solitude of the mountains. Mcleodganj has some of the best street side cafes and relish the local food to enjoy a grand monsoon vacation. Visit the Masroor Temple, the swollen Bhagsu Falls, picturesque Nechung Monastery, Guna Devi Temple and the St. John’s Church. Vipassana Meditation Centre will offer you the eternal solitude and peace. Also visit the Pong Dam Lake or the Maharana Pratap Sagar artificial lake and feel the allure of the mountains.

Monsoon visit to Himachal amply brings out the mountain mysticism. Plan a remarkable monsoon vacation to the hills if you haven’t yet. The monsoon magic of Himalayas with the carpet of towering deodar trees and the enchantment of lakes and waterfalls, view of the serene mountain ranges and the holiness of the famous temples and monasteries lend an extra dimension to holidaying in Himachal.

What are the best and hidden places to visit in India? Part 6

Offering adventurous, treasures, and surprises to the visitors, India is a country gaining popularity in the tourism sector. Blessed with abundant beauty, India is growing rapidly in tourism but there are some destinations in the country that remain untouched which offers the best vacationing in India. If you have explored the major destinations of India, then you must go on an offbeat India tour to find joy in the unexplored corners in the country.

The following are some of the best-hidden places in India to visit –

Laitmawsiang, Meghalaya –

The small village situated in Khatarshnong Laitkroh Block of East Khasi Hills, Laitmawsiang is the perfect hideout for hungry people for isolation in the lap of nature.

13 Arch Bridge, Kerala –

13, Arch bridge, Kollam, Kerala, best and hidden places in India

Situated in Kazhathuruthi in Kollam district of Kerala, 13 Arch Bridge is well-known for its architectural marvel.

Chettinad Palace, Tamil Nadu –

Chettinad Palace in Tamil Nadu, best and hidden places

The Chettinad Palace in Tamil Nadu is an amazing amalgamation of architecture, art, and tradition while showcasing the past.

Tada falls, Andhra Pradesh –

Least popular waterfalls of Andhra Pradesh, Tada falls are tucked away in the beautiful hillocks and greenery. It is a perfect escape for hikers and trekkers to a peaceful destination.

Nagarhole National Park –

Under conservation for UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, Nagarhole National Park is a wildlife reserve that will make for any photographer’s delight.

Patan, Gujarat –

One of the newest additions to UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, Patan has sprung to popularity in travel circuit due to its Rani ka Vav.

Mawsynram, Meghalaya –

The wettest place in India, Mawsynram turns more beautiful during the monsoon season and looks extremely generous.

Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu –

Blessed with azure sea, white sand beached and a lazy idyllic vibe makes Dhanushkodi one of the most beautiful yet sparsely known beaches of India.

Karauli, Jaipur –

Karauli, Rajasthan, best and hidden places in India

A quaint town located in Rajasthan, Karauli is popular for its sacred places and houses more than 300 temples. The rich, vibrant, and colourful heritage of Rajasthan, Karauli is the perfect destination for Rajasthan vacations.

So, discover the unexplored best and hidden destinations of India and experience the charming beauty of the city.

August 19, 2019 Travel, Within India

What are the best and hidden places to visit in India? Part 5

India is full of hidden or unexplored places that surely are worth visiting, here are some of them :

1. Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat (West India)

Rani ki vav, West India
best and hidden places

We have only known about the step wells in Rajasthan while there are more beautiful ones in Gujarat as well. Rani ki vav is one such place which has a history associated to it and a great architectural style which fascinates even the new architects. This place is full of secret tunnels and routes.

2. Aravalem Caves, Goa

Aravalem caves, Goa, best and hidden places in India

The hot selling travel location, Goa is full of beaches and may be that is why it still has some undiscovered places like the Aravalem Caves located in north Goa. The caves have various historical stories related to it from about pandvas of Mahabharata to Buddhism. The caves with beautiful waterfall are a perfect tourist spot.

3. Bhangarh, Rajasthan

Bhangarh, Rajasthan, best and hidden places in India

An unknown fort in Rajasthan that has a historic stories associated with it. But this town and fort also has various haunted stories associated with it which makes it one of the most haunted places of country. A pleasant picnic spot otherwise, this spot turns something else during nights.

4. Siswan Forest Range, India

Siswan Forest range, India, best and hidden places

One the most peaceful places in India which is still not seen as the top tourist place of India. The forest range on outskirts of Himalayas is protected forest containing hills, scenic lookout points, a very diverse flora and fauna. Here you can also go hikes or bike trips.

5. Kaas Plateau, Satara

Known as the “Valley of Flowers” among the locals, this place will mesmerize you with its colourful flower beds all over the hills. Apart from the flowers, the Thoseghar waterfall is a very scenic place. Driving from Satara to Thoseghar is in itself a blissfull drive with scenic views of mountains, fort and colourful valley on sides.

6. Tada Falls

Tada falls, best and hidden places in India

This beautiful waterfall in Andhra Pradesh in a relatively unexplored place yet. Surrounded by hills and greenery, this place has some very beautiful scenic views. This place is ideal for small trip, trek or picnics.

Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh, best and hidden places in India

7. Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh

Once you visit this place, you will always remember it as the marble wonder. Not much known yet, but you probably should not miss a boat ride under a moon lit sky in the Narmada River that increases the beauty of Bhedaghat and its marble gorges. This place will give you such soothing experience that you will want to take photos not from your phone but in your hearts.