Festivals of Goa

India is known for its unique display of nature and culture. Richness in culture and heritage is what India is all about. Seating in this country is Goa, the country's smallest country but known for its festivities all over the world. Historically, this place is ruled by a Buddhist emperor.

Along with its story, Goa has so many activities that the tourists look forward to. There Goa Festivals that originated in this place and also festivals that are celebrated around the world. Some of these festivals are the Bonderam Festival, Diwali, Feast of St. Francis Xavier, Feast of Three Kings, Ganesh Chaturthi, Goa Carnival, Shigmo and Shigmotsav. Goa also celebrates Good Friday and Easter Holiday as well as Christmas day. Celebrating these festivals has been a tradition in Goa, but for others, attending those festivals is just for fun to join with.

To book Goa package tours, please visit website

Taj Mahal The Epitome of Love

Taj Mahal - "the epitome of love" is a monument of immeasurable beauty. The beauty of this magnificent monument is such that it is beyond the scope of words. The thoughts that come into the mind while watching the Taj Mahal of Agra is not just its phenomenal beauty, but the immense love which was the reason behind its construction. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan got this monument constructed in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, with whom he fell in love at the first sight. Ironically, the very first sight of the Taj Mahal, the epitome of love and romance, also leaves visitors mesmerized and perpetually enthralled.

Standing majestically on the banks of River Yamuna, the Taj Mahal is synonymous to love and romance. It is believed that the name "Taj Mahal" was derived from the name of Shah Jahan's wife, Mumtaz Mahal and means "Crown Palace". The purity of the white marble, the exquisite ornamentation, precious gemstones used and its picturesque location, all make a visit to the Taj Mahal gain a place amongst the most sought-after tours in the world. However, until you know the love story behind the construction of the Taj Mahal, the beauty of the same would not enliven in your heart and mind and instead would come up as just another beautiful building/monument. It is the love behind this outstanding monument that has given a life to this monument.

The tomb is the representation of the house of the queen in Paradise, and  its setting was based on the palace gardens of the great nobles that lined both sides of the river at Agra India.  You will explore the entire complex of the Taj Mahal with an explanation of each building and an account of the mausoleum's urban setting, its design and construction, its symbolic meaning, and its history up to the present day.

At the brink of dawn when the first rays of the sun hits the dome of this epic monument, it radiates like a heavenly abode, cloaked in bright golden. And then at dusk, basking in the glory of moon, it shines like a perfectly carved diamond; appearing as if straight out of some magical tale, leaving the viewers awestruck by its sense of grandeur. Nothing short of an architectural marvel, no wonder it stands proud at being one of the Seven Wonders of the World. And the rich beauty of this visual spectacle turns visceral when one hears the story behind it. The story of Taj Mahal!

Come and explore the visceral charisma that it emanates! One of the seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal can be visited by booking a Golden Triangle tour package which will take your journey through three mesmerising cities in India, Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. You can also stay at hotels in Delhi and arrange a short trip to these three amazing Indian destinations.

Best Places to See Elephants in Kerala

The Elephants are an integral part of the daily life in Kerala, India. Kerala has more than seven hundred elephants in captivity. Most of them are owned by temples and individuals. They are used for religious ceremonies in and around the temples, and a few elephants work at timber yards. These Indian elephants are loved, revered, groomed and given a prestigious place in the state's culture. Elephants in Kerala are often referred to as the 'sons of the sahya.' As the state animal, the elephant is featured on the emblem of the Government of Kerala, taken from the Royal Arms of both Travancore and Cochin State.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:

The most popular wildlife sanctuary in Kerala has a good population of elephants. A boat trip is a popular way to explore but you’ll have a better chance of seeing elephants if you go for a guided trek into the forest. The longer the trek, the better your chances.

Wayanad:

The Wayanad region in Northern Kerala is much less visited than Periyar and has two wildlife sanctuaries with good chances of spotting elephants.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary:

Chinnar is easily reached from Munnar, but also receives far less visitors than Periyar. The watch tower is a great place to look out for elephants and you can even sleep out overnight.

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre:

Kodanad is an elephant rescue and training centre that is a popular daytrip from Cochin. It’s located 50km away so you’ll need to arrange a trip through your hotel or tourist office, or hire a taxi.

Guruvayur:

Guruvayur is an interesting off the beaten track place to visit in Kerala. It’s a bustling pilgrim town 25km from Thrissur that is well known for its temple, one of the richest and most important in the state. Although non-Hindus aren’t allowed inside the temple you can still enjoy the activities that take place outside during one of the many festivals held there.  The largest festival is Ulsavam during February or March. There are a variety of music and dance performances, as well as an elephant race and procession.  Even if you don’t visit during a festival you can still see elephants at the Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary 3kms away. Elephants are trained there for temple activities, and visitors are always welcome.

Thrissur:

Highly decorated elephants are an essential part of temple festivals in Kerala. Thrissur is another less obvious place to visit in Kerala that has plenty of temples and festivals, so it’s a great place to spot elephants. The annual Puram Festival, the biggest festival in all of Kerala, takes place here in May and features elephant processions, drum orchestras and lots of traditional arts. You can get here by bus or train from Cochin in a few hours.

To get information on Kerala holiday packages such as Munnar tour packages and Kerala backwater tour, please visit the website

Kullu Manali Switzerland of India

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most charming and captivating state situated in the northern part of India. Himachal Pradesh is known for superb scenic beauty and some of world famous hill stations. The climate of Himachal is enjoyable and delightful. There are several resorts offering excellent accommodation facilities. A variety of adventure and sport activities are available grabbing the heart of tourists who love to thrill themselves with adventurous activities during their India tours and vacations.

The state boasts of numerous picturesque tourist destinations, which are responsible for generating much of the revenue for the state. Agriculture, textile and burgeoning hydroelectric power export industry are the other sources of income for the state. colorful fairs festivals, beautiful sights, religious places, wooded hills and tranquil lakes, bustling towns and quiet villages, amazing flora and fauna and of course etc are few names himachal tourism attractions which makes this state most visited tourism and holiday destinations in India as well as around the world. There are lots of beautiful hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. The state has numerous wonderful hill stations in store, which are freezing cold in winters and pretty cold in summers. Shimla, Dalhousie, Kullu, Manali, Chail and Kufri are a few of the hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh which offer heaps of adventure sports activities, apart from the breathtaking scenery. Among these Kullu Manali is very popular tourist destination.

Manali is an important hill station of India situated in the mighty Himalayan Mountains of Himachal Pradesh, India near the northern end of famous Kullu Valley. It is a popular Himalayan tourist destination which permits a spectacular view of snow capped mountain peaks both to the north and the south. Mighty snow-capped mountain peaks, wooden slopes, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fruit orchards, fields of wild flowers, deodar & pine forests, splendid mountains, caves, etc are some major attractions of Manali tours which have made this small town of Himachal Pradesh one of the most popular hill destinations of the country. Truly this is the heaven on the earth. It is well connected by road to all the major cities of North India like Delhi, Chandigarh and Shimla.

It is a popular destination and one of the most sought after India tour packages for nature lovers, peace seekers, families, adventurers, and other tourists too. Beautiful flowers, fruit orchards, snow capped mountain peaks, enchanting rivers, wonderful waterfalls, lovely lakes, lush green valleys, etc enchant the sense of nature lovers. It is one of the best destinations of Honeymooners. Every year lots of new couple come to explore the beauty of Kullu Manali. A variety of adventure and sport activities are available grabbing the heart of tourists who love to thrill themselves with adventurous activities during Kullu Manali Tour. Trekking, mountaineering, rock-climbing, exploring lush green valleys, skiing, bathing at Vashist hot water sulphur spring, paragliding, tout fishing in Beas River, water rafting, camping, hiking, jeep safaris, mountain biking, etc are some adventure & sport activities which you will surly to love to indulge. Apart from wonderful beauty of nature you can visit Naggar Fort, Hadimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Vashisth Temple, Hot Water Springs, Rahala Water Falls, Solang Valley, Apple Orchards, Snow Capped Mountain Peaks, Rohtang Pass, Mountaineering Institute, etc.

When you book a Manali tour package to visit the place, don't forget to visit following famous spots during the trip:

Raghunathji Temple:

This is the most famous tourist destination in Kullu for Hindus. Raghunathji Temple is a very famous temple of Lord Rama and the holiest place of Hindu religion in Kullu. This temple is most crowded in Dussehra festival.

Sultanpur Palace:

Sultanpur Palace is also one of the most famous tourist's attractions of Kullu valley. It is most famous for beautiful small paintings done in Kullu's traditional manner, simplicity and peace of this place.

Bijli Mahadev Temple:

This temple is also situated at Sultanpur and has great religious importance. This temple is famous for a 20 height of pole and Lord Shiva Statue. The statue of Goddess Durga, Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha are also present in surroundings of this temple.

Rohtang Pass:

It is the most famous tourism destination of Manali. It is located at the height of about 14,000 feet above the sea level. It is famous for huge snow-fall throughout the year. It is closed for tourist in winter season due to huge rainfall. 

Hidimba Devi Temple:

This is the temple of goddess Hadimba Devi wife of Lord Bhima This temple contains four level and well known for its statue of animals, plants and local divinity.

The Marvellous York City

York is a scenic haven, and a bustling and vibrant city. There are so many things to keep you occupied that you could easily find that there aren't enough hours in the day. The city of York offers everything from stunning medieval architecture to modern day shopping experiences, so whether you're a history buff or crave modern living you'll find something here to take your fancy.

York is an ideal place to visit on a short weekend break or longer family holidays because of the several attractions offered by the city.

The magnificent Cathedral is one of the landmarks to be visited during a visit to York. With a number of castles, quaint historic pubs and cobbled streets, you'll feel like you're stepping back in time. The rivers are equally as beautiful, and with York being known for its chocolate anyone with a sweet tooth will surely be in heaven.

Talking about the nightlife and other modern pastimes of York, the city is as happening and vibrant as any other modern city. People who are looking for excitement, shopping, eating, dancing and drinking, they won't be disappointed.

People travelling to York will also need a good accommodation and to make their stay more comfortable, there are several luxury York hotels, starred accommodations, boutique hotels, self catering accommodations, bread and breakfasts, and budget cheap hotels in York.

So if you are looking for a great time this summer in UK, come to York. The city is simply marvellous.

A Houseboat Cruise on Alleppey Backwaters

Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a beautiful backwater and houseboat tour destination in Kerala. Washed by the silvery waves of the Arabian Sea, the Venice of the East (Alleppey is also known by this name) welcomes the tourists with palm fringed canals and shores bustling with glimpses from the day to day life in the country side. Mirror still lagoons, picture book lakesides and the long sun kissed sandy beaches enhance the beauty of the place many folds. The large network of canals, which are more popularly known as backwaters, provides Alleppey its lifeline.

The houseboat cruises in Kerala backwaters such as Alleppey and Kumarakom houseboats with the mind-blowing view of canal systems and endless lagoons, paddy fields, rivers joining the backwater, and small houses on small stretch of land are fantastic.

Tourists love the view of local birds, people working in paddy fields, fishermen and women fishing in the backwaters, the scenic and picturesque beauty, and glimpses of culture and tradition of Kerala during the cruise. The beauty of Alleppey Houseboat cruise is well known all over the world for the unique experience it offers.

The Ghats of Varanasi

The city of Varanasi is also known for its beautiful Ghats. Ghat is a term that refers to the banks of a river. Varanasi is situated on the banks of Holy River Ganga (Ganges) and the Ghats of the city are cemented stairs on the western bank of the Ganges leading to the holy water of the river.

The city of Varanasi is also known as Kashi. The city is older than traditions and presents a unique combination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. The city holds a very special place in Hinduism. According to the Hindu mythology, Varanasi liberates the soul from human body and merges it to the ultimate. The Ghats of Ganges complement the concept of divinity and are perhaps the holiest spots of Varanasi.

Varanasi has more than a hundred Ghats, many of which are as old as the city itself. These Ghats at the bank of river Ganga are full of pilgrims who flock to the place to take holy dip in the holy river. It is believed that a dip into the holy water wipes all the sins.

There are around 81 Ghats in the city which are meant for different purposes. Some of the Ghats are related to a particular deity while some others are simply for bathing. Some of the prominent and famous Ghats of Varanasi are Manikarnika Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Harischandra Ghat, Kabir Ghat, Assi Ghat, Dasaswamedh Ghat, and Panch Ganga Ghat.

Jal Mahal

Jal Mahal which means "Water Palace" is located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur city, capital of the state of Rajasthan in India. Jal mahal was built to be a pleasure palace for the royal family of Jaipur, in 1799, and is an extremely romantic place with its red sandstone intricate architecture casting beautiful reflections in the calm waters of the Man Sagar Lake, full of hyacinths.

The palace is renowned for its majestic architecture, and intricate and sophisticated design. The structure is surrounded by the Nahargarh Hills and has also been home to one of the prime ministers of Jaipur estate. Lthough the palace is now abandoned but it is very well-preserved and provides a picturesque view from Nahargarh Fort. The first four floors of Jal Mahal are submerged under the water of the lake and only the top floor is visible above the water level.

The Nahargarh Fort offers a splendid view of the lake as well as the Jal Mahal. One can also get magnificent views of the palace from Mansagar Dam constructed on the eastern side of the lake.

You can book a golden triangle tour package to visit this beautiful piece of architecture. The package covers a trip to three exotic tourist destinations in India which are Delhi, Jaipur and Agra.

Manali

Manali the most beautiful tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, located in the north of India. It is also known as Queen of hill stations and is popular and known for its world famous tourist place called the Rohtang pass. Manali tour offers perfect conditions to indulge in various adventure sports such as trekking, mountaineering, rafting, skiing, helicopter skiing etc.

Manali derived its name from Manavalaya which means abode of Manu. According to Hindu mythology, Manu the divine law-giver, was the only survivor of the Mahajal Pralay - the great flood - and is said to have fathered the human race.

Kullu and Manali (twin cities) are picturesque hill stations and are amazingly beautiful blessed with spectacular natural beauty. Manali is the perfect holiday destination for people who are looking for both adventure and a memorable vacation in a lovely hill station.

Tourists coming to visit the place get spell bound with charm and beauty of Manali. With the majestic grandeur of the Himalayas on one side, river Beas cutting across the town, verdant valleys with Rolling Meadows, and grazing herds dotting the hillsides, apple orchards and the folk music of Himanchal Pradesh, add to the charm and glory to the beauty of this hill station.

To discover the real beauty and charm of the place, book a Manali tour package, and come to experience its real essence. With astounding charm and great attraction, it has rightly been christened as the "Valley of the Gods".

Travel Kerala

Kerala, also known as God’s Own Country, is a land of myriad experiences with something for everyone. Exploding palms, trumpeting elephants, lovely backwaters, beautiful hills, rich wildlife, Kerala offers endless things. Tourists coming to visit Kerala get wide range of options to choose their dream holiday destination. A Kerala tour package beckons you to delve into the glories and charm of Kerala attractions such as sun kissed beaches to bewitching backwaters, magical houseboats, lush green tea hills, enchanting wildlife, Aurveda and Yoga, Kerala culture and tradition, performing folk arts, lip smacking cuisines and Festivals.

Among all these attractions Kerala Houseboat tours and Kerala Backwater tours are two most popular and famous enchanters. Kerala honeymoon tours are also very popular and the newly wedded couples love to spend their honeymoon trip in Kerala. Munnar is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the state. Located on the hills of Kerala, it offers the perfect atmosphere and ambiance to spend a romantic holiday.

The state offers innumerable attractions to spend a memorable holiday amidst serene and scenic natural ambiances. No wonder a trip to Kerala will make you experience nature at its best.

Kerala Fish Curry Recipe

The pristine land of Kerala is one of the most sought after tourist destinations of the world. Kerala is the first choice for tourists coming to India. Listed by BBC as one of world's top 10 tourist destinations, Kerala offers a variety of attractions to the visitors. Everything about the state is mind blowing whether it the cuisine, natural beauty, backwaters, houseboats, churches or temples. Simply, Kerala is outstanding.

In this article, I will tell you the recipe of a very simple yet very delicious Keralan recipe.

Kerala Fish Curry

Ingredients:

• Onion, chopped - 1
• Garlic, peeled - 4 to 6 cloves
• Ginger, peeled and thinly sliced - 1 (1-inch) piece
• Chile peppers, chopped - 1 to 6
• Tamarind pulp - 2 or 3 tablespoons
• Warm water - 1 1/2 cups
• Oil - 3 or 4 tablespoons
• Mustard seeds - 1 tablespoon
• Ground coriander - 1 tablespoon
• Turmeric - 2 teaspoons
• Fenugreek - 1 teaspoon
• Curry leaves (optional) - 4 to 6
• Salt and pepper to taste
• White fish, cut into bite-sized pieces - 2 pounds
• Coconut milk - 1 1/2 cups

Preparation Method

1. Place the onion, garlic, gingerroot and chilies in a blender or food processor and process until pureed but still a little chunky. You may have to add a little water and work in batches if using a blender.
2. Mix the tamarind pulp with the water and break it up with a fork or your hands to dissolve. Strain the tamarind water and discard the pulp.
3. Heat the oil in a large pot, kadhai or wok over medium-high flame. Add the mustard seeds and sauté until they start to pop. Add the dry spices quickly and stir just until they are absorbed by the oil. Do not allow the spices to burn.
4. Quickly add the onion puree and curry leaves. Reduce heat to low and cook until the liquid is reduced and the onions have lost their raw flavor, about 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Add the tamarind water, season with salt and pepper and simmer another 10 to 15 minutes to meld the flavors and reduce the liquid a little.
6. Stir in the fish and coconut milk and simmer slowly another 5 to 10 minutes until the fish is cooked through. Adjust seasoning and serve with basmati rice.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is the Gateway to the Lahaul Valley and is situated about 51 km from Manali town at an altitude of 4,111 meters (13,400 ft.) on the highway to Keylong. In winter the mountain slopes are snow clad which turn into perfect skiing slopes. At Rohtang Pass, one sees the majesty of the mountains at its height and splendour. Rohtang Pass is the main attraction for tourists coming for tour to Manali.

At the top of the Rohtang Pass, the air seems to glitter against the snow as one looks down over herring boned ridges into the Lahaul Valley. There is a beautiful Doshohar Lake left to the pass, where pilgrims go every year on the auspicious day of 20th Bhadon.

The visit to Manali is incomplete if you do not go to Rohtang Pass. On your way to the Rohtang Pass, on one side you can see Kothi and Gulaba, places en route from Manali, while the Rohtang Peaks stare at you on the other side.

The mountain plateau is surrounded by a large meadow strewn with myriad wild flowers in season.  The pass was ancient trade route between the people on either side of Pir Panjal. Rohtang Pass is the only access to Lahaul valley and is open from June to September each year although trekkers can across the pass a little earlier.

Rohtang is an adventure tourist site for tourists coming for Kullu Manli Tour, where it can be cold even on a summer day. Winds blow at furious pace and it is chill after 3pm. It is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road and provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is truly breath taking. In winter, the road of Rothang Pass is closed. Skiing is possible even in summer months (May and up to mid June) when the snow is still there on slopes. Wooden sledges are popular for rides. Para gliding is now a days very popular in summers between Rohtang and Marhi, taking one high in the sky for unforgettable views and lifetime experience.

Mochar Ghonto

Banana is used in Indian cuisine in many ways. From North to East India and then towards south, it is used to prepare many Indian regional dishes. Every part of banana plant is used, from its stem to the flowers and the fruits to the leaves.

In Bengali cuisine, the banana flower, called Mocha (pronounced as Mo Cha, Cha as in Chair in Bengali), is a delicacy to have. It is prepared in different ways, using various ingredients. Today I will tell you how to prepare Mochar Ghonto (Stir fry Banana blossom).


Mochar Ghonto
Serves for 5-6 people

Ingredients

1. 1 Mocha (Banana Blossom)
2. 1 Medium sized potato (cut into cubes)

For Flavoring

1. 4 Cloves
2. 2-3 Pods cardamom
3. Half inch stick cinnamon
4. 1-2 tsp of coriander powder
5. 1 tsp of red pepper powder
6. Salt as per taste
7. Sugar as per taste

For Tempering

1. 2-3 Bay leaves
2. Tej Patta
3. 1 tsp of cumin seeds
4. 3-4 tbs of mustard oil
5. 2 tbs of ghee

Preparation Method

• Its better to oil the hands, knife before chopping banana blossom.
• Place a news paper, then place the cutting board. Grease your hands and fingers with oil.
• Open the outer layer of banana blossom, take out the flowers and take out from it "the hard somewhat blackish at the top stalk", and chop them finely.
• Follow the same pattern for the other layer of blossom, until you reach the central heart , which would be slightly pale yellow or off white in colour.
• Chop it finely.

To Get Rid of the Bitterness of Mocha

• Wash Mocha in water thoroughly 2-3 times, fill in a large pan with water, add the banana blossom (Mocha) to it, add 1tsp of turmeric powder , ½ tsp of salt and bring to boil .Cook for 5-7 minutes.
• Cover and stop the flame, let it cool off well, now discard the remaining water and take out the chopped Mocha, squeeze out the remaining water with hands (that’s how our aunts and Mothers have been doing it) or better use the sieve.

Preparation of Mochar Ghonto

• Heat a Kadhai, add oil, temper it with cumin seeds and bay leaves.
• Add potatoes; fry them at high flame for sometime.
• Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder and cumin powder
• Add salt and sugar for seasoning, to taste.
• Fry all the ingredients for 4-5 minutes at high.
• Add chopped Mocha and fry them also.
• Add the cloves, cardamom and cinnamon.
• Slightly sprinkle some water with hands.
• Cover and cook for 10 mints at low, or till the potatoes are cooked and tender.
• With the help of spatula, gently mash the entire gravy and mix in well
• Add ghee and Garam Masala for flavouring.
• Garnish with fresh grated coconut.
  
• Serve with hot steamed rice.