India - Best Places of Interest

May 15, 2019 Travel, Within India

Places to visit in Andaman for relaxing experience

Andaman tops the list of honeymoon packages because of the romantic, lovely beaches and serene nature. It also tops the list of family or friends seeking an escape from the mundane city life because of the adventures it offers and the peaceful time they can spent together amidst the captivating nature.

It’s a destination which fits for all requirements while providing you the best escape to have a relaxing holiday where your soul can meet the blue sky, turquoise water, golden beaches and unspoiled nature along with the other things that you can enjoy during your relaxing stay in Andaman.

Best beaches of India

Few of the best beaches in India belongs to Andaman. You can visit to lovely beaches, click lot of pictures, enjoy the walk on sand, swim in the amazing water, cherish romantic moments with your partner, sunbathe, relax and have a gala time playing in sand with your children, friends or family.

Let’s have a look at few of the must visited places that can’t be missed whenever you are in Andaman.

Havelock Island

Havelock Island is a major attraction, soul of Andaman, a coastal paradise gifted with unparalleled luxury and lovely nature. Home to most amazing beaches amidst the beautiful tropical forest and rich coral life to explore along with the plethora of water adventures like snorkelling, scuba diving, sea walking, surfing and glass boat rides.

Its popularity has not spoiled its beauty and still its one of the unspoiled, peaceful beaches where you will only hear sound of waves breaking on the shores, so you can spend a lazy day, get your favourite book and relax on the shores, under the canopy of tall palm trees to revive your senses.

Radhanagar Beach

A paradise in the southern coast of Havelock Island is Radhanagar Beach. Nothing can be more tempting then roaming around in the white sand as smooth as wheat flour at Radhanagar beach.

You can also swim and sunbathe at Radhanagar, it’s a beach that is been consistently crowned as the best beaches in Asia’s. You can spend a relaxing time in this dreamland which is a perfect blend of soothing luxury and rugged wilderness.

Neil Island

Another popular island of Andaman to spend some peaceful time and enjoy the underwater adventures like scuba diving, snorkelling, and surfing. Located about 40km towards the south of the Andaman Islands. Covered with dense tropical forests, coral reefs, and lovely white sand beaches.

Beach resorts

Other than enjoying your holidays while relaxing in islands or beaches, you can book your stay at beach resort. It will be a different experience that’s not available everywhere and it will give you an incredible experience along with the luxury. So, it’s better to select beach resorts over five-star hotels when you are in Havelock or Neil Island.

Bharatpur Beach

Bharatpur Beach in Neil Island is a wide blanket of surging waves, surrounded by pristine white sand, lots of traveller visit this beach throughout the year, the distinguishing feature of the beach is its glass boat ride which takes you through the diversity of coral reefs and exotic marine life that flourishes in this lovely island.

Elephant Beach

A beautiful beach that will tempt you to visit again and again. Elephant Beach is famous for snorkelling and an ideal destination for sea walking because it owns beautiful & stunning coral reefs, along with exotic marine life.

The boat or ferry ride to Elephant Beach from Havelock is an additional temptation which will take you through the serene nature, so don’t forget to add this beautiful island in your package, your trip will be incomplete without it.

Barren Island

If your purpose of holiday is to enjoy the solitude and relax, Barren Island is for you. As the name suggests, it’s a stretch of land that is completely devoid of the human population.

It is a home to the only known active volcano of South Asia making it a most sought destination to explore for adventure enthusiasts. You will require the permission to visit the island from forest department. While on your way to the island you will get the whole world of water sports to tempt you.

Vijaynagar Beach

Vijaynagar Beach famous as Beach No. 5, again an ideal destination for those who are looking to relax in the comforting cuddles of nature. Along with moonlight exciting underwater world and the unmatched solace, it offers.

Long Island

It’s an offbeat destination of Andaman which is famous among adventurers and explorers. It doesn’t see lot of travellers, so it’s an amazing island to unplug and reconnect with yourself. You can include it in your bucket list to enjoy the surreal nature and solitude.

Birdwatching and photography

If you love bird watching and photography, you will be overwhelmed with the number of opportunities you will get. You can click the lovely beaches, captivating nature, beautiful site of sunset or sunrise.

For a better experience you can visit Andman Bird Island or Chidiya Tapu verdant spot with forests, mangroves and numerous species of birds. You will hear continuous chirping of birds along with different colours and creed of birds flying from one branch to the other, few famous creeds of birds are parakeets, eagles, drongos, doves etc.

Bioluminescence at Havelock Island

The list of places to visit and relax is never ending, it’s a beautiful and unspoiled island of which every nook and corner is charming, above that it is blessed with nature and its miracles, one of such miracles is the active volcano at Barren Island and another one is Bioluminescence at Havelock Island.

When there is no moonlight between Nov to Dec, the water on the beach glows because of the presence of phytoplankton, a phenomenon known as Bioluminescence which lasts for 3 hours but with a lifetime of memory. It seems as if thousands of tiny stars are floating under your feet and you are sailing your boat above them.

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April 23, 2019 Travel, Within India

Best places to visit in Sikkim for a relaxing experience

Sikkim is the most sought after tourist destination among all the beautiful north-eastern states of India. Sikkim was ruled by the royal family till 1975. Finally, the monarchy ended by the political intervention of the then President of India and Sikkim was finally added to the Republic of India on May 16 as the 22nd Indian state.

Sikkim tour packages are organised by the various trip and tour operators who help in identifying the top tourist destinations depending on the trip duration and budget of the tourists. Sikkim proudly upholds the Kanchenjunga peak, which is the world’s third highest peak.

The most relaxing places to unwind and get rejuvenated are maybe the charismatic Buddhist monasteries of Sikkim that take one through a poignant spiritual experience. The solace, the beauty of peace, the physical beauty of the locations, the solitude, the prayer bells, the deep-throated chanting of the monks in worship — are all infinitely uplifting experiences that one should go through to discover the beauty of emancipation.

Lachung Monastery, Sikkim

The Lachung monastery in north Sikkim established in 1880 is one. It is the last monastery on the highway that eventually reaches the Indo-Chinese border. The monastery is famous for its traditional annual dance. The word ‘Lachung’ means ‘Small Mountain’ and the monastery is located near the Lachun river, which is a tributary of the famous river Teesta.

Tashiding Monastery

The Tashiding Monastery makes it to the hit list of tourists and is blessed generously by natural beauty and charm of the snow-clad mountains and unspoilt natural greenery. This monastery was built by Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phunshok Rigzing and provides ample opportunity to relax and unwind. Tsuklakhang Palace, which is a surreal piece of ancient poetry, and is meant for the lovers of peace and harmony.

It is popularly known as Tsuklakhang Royal chapel. The monastery actively showcases the cultural heritage of Sikkim. It offers deeper insights into the religiosity of Indian culture and traditions.

Pemayangtse Monastery

The time tested and agile beauty of the Pemayangtse Monastery surpasses the beauty of most of the other monasteries surrounding it. This monastery makes for a harmonious and blissful tourist place and is best visited between the months of March to June. It is situated around 110 kilometres from Gangtok and is merely 2 kilometres from Pelling. Travellers flock to experience its glory the year round.

The word ‘Pemayangtse’ means Perfect Sublime Lotus and the monastery’s location and layout amply justifies the name. The interiors of the monastery are richly decorated with bright and shiny Tibetan motifs and it also has designer walls and pillars. This 300-year old monastery is the perfect place for deep learning, religious realizations and soul searching.

Indulge in prayers and meditation to find your true self. The monastery has a rich style of architecture and is set amidst gorgeous mountain ranges. As you watch the peaceful demeanours of the Buddhist followers in the temple premises, your inner being shall be in harmony with the peace of the ambience. The ancient manuscript adorning the monastery pillar pillars and the magnificent interior woodwork are worthy to be noticed.

Tsomgo Lake

A serene and naturally beautiful place Tsomgo Lake, which is located approximately 38 kilometres away from Gangtok, is often an indelible part of all Sikkim Tourism Package. The scenic route that leads to the Tsomgo Lake crossing the rocky mountain terrain and undulating plains across steep cliffs and gigantic slopes and deep crevices make for a unique experience of beholding unspoilt nature at its best.

Visit the Lake to watch the fascinating Migratory Brahmini ducks, beautiful flowers such as Primulas and Blue and Yellow Poppies. Enjoy a fun time with a yak or a pony ride. Visit the Lake area between the months of January and March to experience snow and between April and May to enjoy the vibrant colours of the rhododendrons and orchids.

Yuksom

Another divine tourist attraction of Sikkim meant for pure relaxation is Yuksom. Yuksom has unbridled natural beauty interwoven with historic charm and pathos. Yuksom has fascinating landscape and is actually the ancient capital of Sikkim.

It retains the grandeur with some of the most majestic monasteries situated on its soil. The term ‘Yuksom’ actually means ‘the meeting place of three llamas’. It is iconically believed to be the ‘Third eye of Sikkim’ and is the getaway to the third highest Himalayan peak, the Kangchendzonga. Yuksom has the serene Khecheopalri Lake located inside the belly of deep mountain forests. It is considered sacred and is the biggest lake in the state.

Yuksom also houses Tashiding Monastery famous for having been visited by the Buddhist master Guru Padmasambhava. It has dazzling colours and holds numerous colourful religions ceremonies. Dubdi Monastery, also located in Yuksom is synonymous with Yuksom Monastery, is famous for beautifully painted interiors, Buddhist manuscripts, pictures, symbols and manuscripts.

It offers serene and quiet moments in the lap of nature away from the humdrum of city life. Yuksom is also known for the Kangchendzonga National Park that is untouched by human civilization and harbours some fascinating plant and animal species.

Nathula Pass

Nathula Pass is a beatific and unruffled location in the heart of Himalayas. Combined with the charm of natural beauty, one can enjoy yak safari, a beautifully built war memorial, an exhibition centre and the splendid beauty of the gorgeous mount Chomolhari. Lachung, Lachen and Yumthang Valley are filled with the innocence of the Tibetan and Bhutia people, the magnificence of Gurudongmar Lake and the myriad colours of the rhododendron blossoms.

The brilliance of Lachung Gompa with the largest Buddhist shrine is another heavenly tourist destination to be included in the Sikkim tour packages. Experience the magic of Lachung Monastery, mesmeric handicrafts and the aura of Mount Pandim, Mount Kabru, Mount Simvo, Mount Jopuno, Mount Khangchendzonga and Mount Siniolchu. Also revel in the sub-zero temperatures and the whiteness of frozen peaks to have a complete Sikkim experience.

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April 3, 2019 Travel, Within India

Places to visit in Badrinath

Badrinath is a naturally blessed pilgrimage nestled between the beautiful Nar and Narayan mountain ranges. The unspoiled beauty and the breathtaking surroundings add more glory to this spiritual place dedicated to Lord Vishnu. One of the most revered stopovers of Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, and like other pilgrimages in the circuit Badrinath holds a great religious significance in Hinduism and Hindu devout. This ancient holy town of Badrinath is located in the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3133 meters above the sea level. The temple name has been derived from the word Badri as the region is much abundant in yielding berries. With myriads of holy legends and the myths associated with the place, Badrinath holds a prominent place in the list of Hindu pilgrimage sites.

Places to visit around Badrinath-

Despite being reckoned as a revered place in Uttarakhand, Badrinath is surrounded by numerous interesting traveling destinations which can give you an exciting and awe-inspiring traveling experience. This article has compiled the list of all the tourist destinations in and around Badrinath which can be explored by opting Badrinath Yatra Package.

1. Badrinath Temple

Also called as Badrinarayan Temple, Badrinath Temple is situated at the right side of the Alaknanda River. The temple stands at an altitude of 3133 meters above the sea level in the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand and is dedicated to Lord Badri (Vishnu). The temple is believed to be constructed during the 8th century by the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya. “Singh Dwar” which is the main entrance of the temple is the major attraction of the temple. A 3.3 meter tall and black-stoned statue of Lord Vishnu which is installed in the Garbhagriha of the temple along with the idols of other gods and goddesses. Devotees cannot pay their homage and cannot do the philosophy of Lord Vishnu during winter as this divine temple is closed during the winter season which gets opened with the commencement of summer season.

2. Vasudhara Falls

This beautiful waterfall in Uttarakhand is one of the most charming traveling destinations near Badrinath. The water of this stunning waterfall falls from a great height of 400 feet above the sea level and is a perfect example of nature’s ethereal beauty. It is believed that the cascading water falling from the height turns away from those who are not pure at heart and can only be savored by the people with pure and clean heart. Despite being a remote location, the cool and salubrious ambiance of the atmosphere and the unadulterated beauty Vasudhara waterfalls is a heavily crowded and a must visit place in Badrinath.

3. Satopanth Lake

A triangular lake which contains crystal clear green water is situated at an elevation of 4600 meters above the sea level and is reckoned as the highest altitude lake located in Uttarakhand. The lake is established near the divine Badrinath Temple. The trekking trail of this pea-green lake is quite appealing and inviting to the adventure enthusiasts to gear up themselves for an enrapturing and lifelong trekking experience. The beautiful landscape of the surrounding that includes snow-clad mountains, lush green meadows, and the imposing mountain peaks negotiates the tiredness and keeps you refresh and motivated during the trek.

4. Brahma Kapal

This traveling destination of Badrinath holds a great significance in Hinduism and is known to be the place where people come to pay respect and homage to the departed souls of their ancestors. Brahma Kapal is located around 2 km away from the Badrinath shrine and there is a deep belief among Hindu devout that if they perform the Shraddha rituals of their ancestors at this sacred place then the departed souls of their ancestors and their loved ones get liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Festivals in Badrinath:

• Mata MurtiKaMela

There is a grand celebration organized every year on the day when the idol of Lord Uddhavji is brought to the Mata Murti Temple which is approx. 3 km away and the idol is brought back to its place on the same day.

• Badri Kedar Festival

This auspicious festival is celebrated in the month of June and the festival is organized in the temples of Badrinath and Kedarnath. The festival continues for eight days and through this Badri-Kedar festival, numerous greatest artists come under the same platform.

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• Krishna Janmashtami

The other auspicious celebration held in the Badrinath shrine is the birth celebration of Lord Krishna in which thousands of devotees take part every year.

May 11, 2018 Travel, Within India

7 Beautiful Churches in India That You Must Visit

India speaks a thousand dialects and has been conducted over by many kingdoms throughout its history. Recalling the country’s past through illustrious structures lounging throughout the realm and the various cultures, it has been influenced in a bewildering number of ways by primaeval empires.

Christianity, presently followed by over 28 million followers in India is said to have been pioneered in 52 AD by Thomas the Apostle. Leaving an ingrained mark on the traditions, architecture and cultures, this religion is a huge part of the country. There is a number of beautifully embellished churches adorning every city in the nation.

Read on and know about the most beautiful churches in India that should be on your travel list.

Se Cathedral, Goa

Se Cathedral, Old Goa. churches — Se Cathedral, Old Goa.
Image credit- Danny Burke

Goa is synonymous to sun, sand and, the beaches. However, another great thing that makes this place beautiful are its churches. The Se Cathedral, located in South Goa is one of the largest churches in India and is devoted to Catherine Alexandria. Book cheap flights to Goa and check this church off your list. Also, with the number of options for hotels in Goa, book your stay today and have a delightful beach vacation.

All Saints Cathedral, Allahabad

All Saints Cathedral is one of the largest and the oldest churches in Ancient India. Paradise for all history buffs, this church is extremely beautiful and worth a visit.

Velankanni, Tamil Nadu

Christians of this place believe that this church has the power to help you with any health-related ailments. Located near the Bay of Bengal in a town called Velankanni, this church is visited by a number of devotees who offer candles to Mother Mary and pray for relief from ailments.

Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa

Basilica of Bom Jesus, churches — Basilica of Bom Jesus | by mckaysavage

Built over 300 years back, Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most famous churches of India. It is located in Old Goa and is known to have remains of St. Francis Xavier which are kept on display for the public. The church is proclaimed as a world heritage site as well.

St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangalore

As beautiful as chapels in Rome, St. Aloysius Chapel built-in 1884 is situated in the heart of Mangalore city on the Lighthouse Hill. This chapel is a treasure for all art lovers because of the paintings that cover every inch of the walls of this gorgeous place.

Santa Cruz Basilica, Kerala

One of the oldest churches of India, Santa Cruz Basilica is situated in Fort Kochi, Kerala. It was constructed by the Portuguese in 1505 and was esteemed with the cathedral status by Pope, Paul IV. Plan a trip to this church and enjoy the serenity of this structure along with a good evening snack by the sea.

St. Francis Church, Kochi

Built 500 years back, St. Francis Church still stands tall with its beautiful European style architecture. The church gets its popularity from the fact that famous Portuguese traveller Vasco da Gama was originally buried here.

With so many beautiful churches across India, a trip to at least one (or more) should definitely be on your travel bucket list. So, head out and explore these miraculous houses of worship, right away.

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