You would be amazed as to what India has to offer!
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10 Places To Visit In India Before You Go Abroad
You would be amazed as to what India has to offer!
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Do You Need Travel Insurance in India?
You have decided on a holiday and are excited about the prospect of seeing new shores and meeting new people. Chances are you would pack your suitcase to the fullest, and then start taking things out once you realise that the suitcase won’t close. However, there is one thing that you absolutely must pack –your travel insurance policy.
In India, the situation is no different. Crisscrossing this country can be quite challenging owing to the sheer diversity. You can never know exactly what could go wrong over the course of your travel. You might end up under the weather or worse, sustain an injury that needs immediate medical intervention. This is also why travel insurance in India is an absolute necessity, something that cannot be compromised.
Stated below are a few important reasons you should buy travel insurance in India right now:
- Injuries While Travelling
An injury can be as simple as spraining your ankle or as severe as breaking a bone. Should you go vacationing to hilly terrains, there could be the off chance that you fall and sustain a severe injury. The condition of roads in India can also be hazardous in some places, something that only adds to the woes.
That being said, when you buy travel insurance like a holiday cover, it provides you with a safety net against any adversity, so that you stay insulated from any untoward eventuality over the course of your trip.
- Falling Sick Due to Change in Weather
Water-borne diseases such as diarrhoea and cholera are some of the most common ailments among travellers in India. While these can be controlled most of the times, they may also lead to serious problems, including dehydration and gastrointestinal infections.
These diseases, once contracted, would warrant immediate hospitalization. It follows that your travel budget is likely to be stretched as you would have to get these conditions treated as soon as they get diagnosed. Waterborne diseases cover from Bajaj Finserv will be all that you need now, considering it would cover you from expenses incurred towards treatment of such conditions.
- Loss of Baggage
The fear of having misplaced all or a part of the baggage, or other important documents for that matter, is no alien to one. While you might not have to worry much should you be travelling by your own vehicle, a guided tour, on the other hand, can throw up this challenge. Having lost your belongings and other valuables is not the ideal spot you can find yourself in, particularly in a place you have visited the first time.
A domestic travel insurance or baggage insurance can help you by reimbursing the amount you would have spent on procuring the necessary items all over again, after having lost your luggage.
- You might require emergency evacuation
Considering you have backpacked to the Himalayas to quench the avid adventurer in you, you’d ideally want to be prepared for any adverse eventuality, should you get stuck at a remote spot there. More importantly, you might end up at the local hospital to get adequate nursing for an injury that you sustained.
Hospitalization expenses for medical evacuation can mount quickly and wreck your travel budget. That being said, a travel insurance policy like a trek cover procured at the right time can insure your trip, providing you with the adequate coverage to sail through such crises in an unknown territory.
- You might have to cancel/curtail the trip
God forbid, but trip interruptions and cancellations can happen anytime, spoiling some of your best-laid plans. While you would not be able to help the dampening mood that cancellations bring, the associated monetary losses can be kept in check to a large degree.
The best travel insurance plans in India can reimburse the expenses you incur – in the form of losses related to pre-booked flights, accommodation and other financial penalties — towards a particular trip cancellation or curtailment, for that matter.
Before you buy a travel insurance policy, it is advisable to carry out a thorough comparison across policies, in keeping with their coverage and the premiums you’d have to shell out.
Bajaj Finserv Pocket Insurance offers cost-effective insurance solutions for an array of travel related needs, ranging from personal trip insurance to home protection cover. With adequate coverage and affordable premiums, you can now rest assured about your trip and enjoy your day in the sun.
Hidden Gems in India to Visit Before You Die
Continuing my series on What are the best and hidden places to visit in India? Part 7
India is a land of many adventures, treasures and surprises. Though tourism in our subcontinent is a fast growing sector but there are many special places that only real travelers know and care about.
Here are hidden treasures in India that every traveler must visit before they die.
Laitmawsiang, Meghalaya
This small village located in Khatarshnong Laitkroh Block of East Khasi Hills, is the perfect hideout for people hungry for isolation in the lap of nature.
Chettinad Palace, Tamil Nadu
Rajasthan is not the only retreat for history enthusiasts. The Chettinad Palace in Tamil Nadu is a unique amalgamation of art, architecture and tradition.
13 Arch Bridge, Kerala
The 13 Arch Bridge of Kerala is located in Kazhathuruthi in Kollam district. This architectural marvel is a sight to behold. Constructed over a century ago with just rocks, the 13 Arch is also an architectural marvel.
Tada Falls/Ubbalamadugu Falls, Andhra Pradesh
These not so famous waterfalls of Andhra Pradesh are tucked away in beautiful hillocks and greenery. Hikers and trekkers looking for a quiet escape can be spotted around the falls.
Arvalem Caves, Goa
The rock cut caves are monuments of the pre-historic life in Goa, a time of Pandavas and Mahabharata. These caves (located 9kms south of Bicholim Town) are now a rather recent discovery and are said to be a hide out for Pandavas during their exile.
Jhatingri, Himachal Pradesh
Himachal is a popular tourist destination but this little abode is situated five kilometers from Ghatasni on way to Barot. The hill town is completely unspoilt and is perfect for those who don’t make/like a lot of noise.
Doodhpathri, Kashmir
Doodhpathari is considered one of the most beautiful meadows in India, and situated only 42 km away from Srinagar a visit here is almost mandatory.
Idukki, Kerala
One of the most beautiful districts hidden away from mad tourist crowds. But what it is an absolutely scenic drive through forest with signs telling you to watch out for elephants by the side of the road.
Chalakudy, Kerala
Move away Munnar and Thekkady, if you are the explorer kind then Chalakudy is just the place for you. It brings together hills, wildlife, waterfalls and backwaters of Mala and Azhicode along with a stunning Munakkal beach, all within itself.
Nagarhole National Park
Under conseration for UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ngarhole National Park has a reserve of wildlife and plants that will make for any photographer’s delight.
Adalaj Stepwell, Gujarat
Known as one of the finest examples of ancient architecture in India. The stepwell is a historical monument that can make even the most modern travelers stop and stare.
Maithon, Jharkhand
Want to combine your obsession of exploration with travel, the Maithon is the place you have been waiting for.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa
A ferry ride away from Ribandar, the Bird Sanctuary is located in the island of Chorao. During the migratory months birds come from as far as Siberia, and are best spotted early in the morning.
Chikhaldara, Maharashtra
Kitchakdari and Shakkal Lakes are amongst the many places of interest in this small place. From Gawilghur Fort to ancient temples and wildlife museum, Chikhaldara is truly a gem hidden from the popular eye.
Badami Caves, Karnataka
Hidden in the Bagalkot district of north Karnataka, Badami Caves stand reminiscent of the great Chalukya architecture. The town used to be a capital of the Chalukya empire in 6th century.
Haflong, Assam
Even if you find Haflong too boring, Halflong Lake is beautiful enough to keep you going for days in its admiration.
~ Thorma Heyerdal, consultant at Indiae-visa.com (2016-present)
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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.
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