Gems of Magical Bhutan

Spanning across the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan, officially called the Kingdom of Bhutan is known as a mystic land, which is still unexplored. Sandwiched between China and India, this landlocked Buddhist country, started opening-up to the world only during the 1960’s. This country surely leaves its visitors charmed through its unique and perfect amalgamation of the old and the new world. Bhutan tours are just ideal for you to explore the architectural marvels, to treat your eyes to the beautiful scenery, taste sumptuous food, partake in adventure activities, soak-in the spiritual feel, take delight in cultural extravaganza and more. One of the smallest countries in the world has a lot to offer:

Adventure:

Adventure in Bhutan  

Bhutan is slowly becoming one of the popular destinations for adventure sports. Placed amidst the mighty Himalayas, Bhutan offers ample opportunity to adventure enthusiasts to partake in a number exciting activities. The list of adventure activities that you can try your hands at includes Fishing, Trekking, Cycling, Kayaking, Hiking, Rafting, Rock Climbing and Mountain Biking. The lush forests, crystal clear rivers, high rugged mountains, all become the venues to indulge in adventure activities.

Spirituality and Wellness:

Spirituality and Wellness in Bhutan

If you are one of those who is looking for some peace, away from any hustle-bustle, Bhutan is the place to be. The serene and pristine environment is just the ideal setting to soak-in the spiritual air that is flowing all around. You can opt for a calm and relaxing meditation session to rejuvenate your tired mind, body and soul. There are a number of meditation centers all around the country, offering you the right kind of environment where you can meditate. Amazing Bhutan weather is great for some yoga and wellness sessions. The rich flora of Bhutan is used in a number of medicines for curing various kinds of ailments. You can opt from a list of therapies such as Hot Spring Therapy, Chubu Tshachu, Dur Tshachu, Duenmang Tshachu, Gasa Tshachu and Gelephu Tshachu.
                                            [ Read more about  Spirituality and Wellness in Bhutan ]

Tourist Attractions:

Punakha-Dzong,  Bhutan

Lovingly given many names ‘the Land between Heaven and Earth’, ‘Shangri La’ and ‘the Fairyland Kingdom’, Bhutan is home to a number of  tourist attractions, surely enough to leave you mesmerized. It has historical dzongs, museums, valleys, temples, monasteries and much more. The natural beauty of Bhutan in itself is the prime charmer. Visiting Bhutan’s capital and the largest city, Thimpu is a must. explore attractions like Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, National Memorial Chorten and shop for jewelry, masks, carpets and more. Drukgyel Dzong, Jangsarbu Lhakhang, National Museum of Bhutan, Rinpung Dzong and Kichu Lhakhang are the major attractions in the historic town of Paro. From Paro’s local markets, do not forget to buy traditional Tibetan coins, antique silverware and weaving products. The other must-visit places include Trongsa, Bumthang and Phobjika. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, partake in wildlife safaris at Satkeng Wildlife Sanctuary and Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park. Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan is its prime attraction.

Colorful Fairs and Festivals of Bhutan:

Fairs and Festivals of Bhutan

There are a number of colorful fairs and festivals, which are celebrated in Bhutan, according to the lunar calendar. Monasteries and Dzongs, sprinkle all around the country becomes the venues for these celebrations all round the year. Religious mask dances by monks in the monasteries and by village at the other places are the major attractions for the visitors and the on-lookers. The local people meet each other and seek the blessings of the religious head. Mongar Tsechu, Nimalung Festival, Nomad Festival, Paro Tshechu, Pema Gatshel Tshechu, Punakha Tshechu and Drubchen, Sakteng Festival, Takin Festival, Thimphu Tshechu, Trongsa Tshechu, Ura Yakchoe, Wangduephodrang Tshechu, Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival, Trashigang Tshechu, The Black-necked Crane Festival, Chorten Kora Festival, Haa Summer Festival are some of the major festivals.
 
Culture:

Bhutan Culture

Bhutan is known for its strong identity and the influence of Buddhism on its culture. Spirituality, monasteries, prayer wheels and prayers flags are important parts of the intricate Bhutanese culture. The people of Bhutan follow a traditional lifestyle and their main occupation is agriculture. The traditional clothes of men and women in Bhutan are generally hand-woven while the machine clothes are for daily use. As far as the food is concerned, chilies are an important part of Bhutanese cuisine. People here are fond of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Ema Datshi, Phaksha Paa, Momos, Red Rice, Khur Le, Jasha Maru and Goep are some of the popular dishes.
 
Flora & Fauna:

Flora in Bhutan

Fauna in Bhutan

Bhutan boasts of rich flora and fauna, which is largely conserved by the government and the locals. Over 60 percent plant species, over 300 medicinal plants and around 46 Rhododendrons species are found here. Some of the animals that you pay spot during wildlife safari here include Wild pigs, snow leopards, gray langurs, leopards, Gorals, One horned Rhinoceros, Golden langurs, Himalayan Black Bear, Gorals, Sambars, along with a number of others. During you tour to Bhutan, treat your eyes to the beautiful flower collection including the National Flower Blue Poppies, Genetian, Magnolias, Orchids, Junipers, Oak trees, Pine, Daphne etc.

Arts & Crafts:

Arts & Crafts in Bhutan

13 traditional art and crafts of Bhutan are its jewels and are a part of its heritage. Paintings, weaving, textiles, cane and bamboo products, other wooden items, wooden stone and slate carvings bronze items, Bootmaking, Thangkas, appliqué art are all a part of art and craft of Bhutan. Some of the major textiles of Bhutan include Dungsam Kamtham, Bura textiles, Yathra and Bumthap Mathra, Kushithara, Adang Mathra, Adang Rachu and Adang Khamar. Tsha-Zo, Shag-Zo, Lha-Zo, Shing-Zo, Do-Zo, Par-Zo, Jim-Zo, Lug-Zo, Tshem-Zo, Gar-Zo and E-Zo are some of Bhutan’s art and crafts techniques.
 
Bird Watching:


With being home to more than 670 avifauna species, Bhutan can rightly be termed as Haven for Bird Watching enthusiasts. Bhutan is known as one of the top 10 biodiversity hotspots in the world and during winters, around 50 migratory birds can be found here. During bird watching, you can spot beautiful colorful birds like Pallid Harrier, Satyr Tragopan, Blackish breasted Blabber, Woodsnipe, Black necked Crane, Grey bellied Tragopan, Bee eater, Blyth’s Kingfisher, Beautiful Nuthatch. Popular sanctuaries for bird watching include Wangchuk Wildlife Sanctuary, Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park, Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, Torsa Strict Nature Reserve, Trumshingla National Park and Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary.
 
                  [Plan your Holiday With these   Bhutan Tour Packages ]

Written by Geetika Handa

Luxury Hotels in Goa: The Unsung Heroes of Every Goa Tour

Goa wraps around itself so much that tourists going on tours to Goa. They enjoy at the beaches, they play in the water, they enjoy the cuisines, they dance at the music and they marvel at the beauty. But there is something which is often left out when people talk about Goa tours: the hotel they stayed in when they visited the state.

The unsung heroes of every Goa tours are the luxurious hotels in Goa. The city is replete with several hotels on every corner that tourists never have to wonder where to stay. All the hotels in the state provide comforts and luxuries so that one could simply enjoy their vacations here.

It is the hotels in Goa that ensure tourists never find themselves missing out on something while living here. Tourists just need to book the hotels and they never find themselves in a state of fix. The hotels take care of all their requirements.

Given below is a list of some of the most popular hotels and resorts in Goa. Stay in them will be like a trip to heaven.

The Leela

The Leela Goa is perhaps the finest 5 star hotels in Goa. The class and luxury of a 5-star hotel is taken to an altogether different level. The best thing that attracts tourists at the Leela Kempinski Goa is the surrounding bounties of nature. The underlying rich heritage of Portuguese at the hotel makes one stay in this resort truly remarkable. Several tourists come here to enjoy at the beach or to play a game of golf; some come here to dine and wine while others make it here to try their luck at the on-site casino. The signature restaurant, Jamavar is one of the best restaurants in the state.

Holiday Inn Resort Goa

Situated on the stunning Mobor Beach, Holiday Inn Resort provides a chance to live in an environment which is a seamless blending of traditional Goan and modern Portuguese architecture. All the 203 suites and rooms are most luxurious and serene places to stay in. The views of lush green gardens and the calm sea set the mood for relaxing vacations. For family time, it is the perfectly isolated retreat in the town. The guests have a lot of dining options in this luxury resort and the spa and business facilities of the hotel are top-notch. Staying at Holiday Inn Goa simply is like spending a mini-holiday during your vacations in Goa.

Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa

Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa has received awards for best Spa Resort in India, Best Luxury hotel in Asia, best leisure hotel in India and various other spectacular accolades. The 5 star Luxury Beach Resort in Goa surrounded by spectacular landscapes and lush green gardens sets the mood for an amazing leisure tour. All the 250 Pousada-style rooms in the hotel provide spa bathing facilities. The on-site restaurants are always on top of their games when it comes to pleasing the masses. Park Hyatt Goa Spa, Sereno is the most preferred relaxing venue in a state which is full of beaches and that says a lot!

Dona Sylvia

Dona Sylvia Beach Resort is an enchanting resort that features an amalgamation of authentic Mediterranean vibes with the warm culture of Goa. All the 181 rooms and suites present in the resort are some of the finest accommodations in whole of Goa. The stay amidst unimaginable contemporary luxuries in Villas that are inspired from Mediterranean architecture is a magical experience. The views of surrounding palm trees and glowing bright sunlight takes one closer to nature than he/she had ever been before. The unending delicious fares in on-site restaurants set the mood and environment for a fine dining experience. Tap your feet at the energetic music and hotel’s pub and start the party at Dona Sylvia.

Cidade De Goa

At Cidade de Goa, one gets to experience what is the true meaning of a luxurious life on a beach. In this hotel, the guests are provided with the best of indulgences they could have ever imagined. While one is offered surprising luxurious facilities along with delightful gourmet options inside the hotel, outside the guests are taken for adrenaline pumping entertainment beach activities. The tiny little Portuguese hamlet serves corporate guests with modern business equipments and the leisure tourist with the finest leisure amenities. The much talked about Susegado lifestyle of Goa truly comes alive in this quaint resort.

Vivanta by Taj - Fort Aguada

One truly experiences Goa in its utmost glory with a stay at Vivanta by Taj- Fort Aguada. The hotel is charming, extremely romantic and supremely vibrant. The history is seeped inside within every inch of the wall of this hotel. The Royalty, The Government leaders and the most renowned celebrities are common visitors of this luxury 5 star resort in Goa. The guests love staying here to enjoy the glorious Portuguese architect that features Balinese landscapes. The luxurious rooms with fine dining restaurants and the popular Jiva spa are some of the key-defining aspects of this hotel. The amazing views of the 16th century fort, Fort Aguada, are truly spectacular.

Goa Marriott Resort & Spa

Marriot Goa is undoubtedly one of the most stylish and sophisticated hotels in town. You need a relaxing spa massage the hotel has an on-site spa facility. You require instant updated business facilities… the hotel staff serves you on the spot. You are hungry… there are several dining and wining restaurants inside the hotel. You need to go out for sightseeing excursions… the hotel provides travel assistance and tours. In much simpler and easier words, the hotel serves all the requirements of a modern day traveler and ensures one has an unforgettable time in Goa.

Indian Summer Holidays – What to Eat in India During Summer to Stay Cool India's Best Summer Treats

India is a vast country, stretching from the green tropical shores of Kerala to the snow-tipped peaks of the Himalayas. The climate varies greatly between different parts of the country, but one thing is certain: summer in India is hot, hot, hot! The heat is relentless; day after day of hot, dry, sunny weather. With regular flights to India from the UK, what better place to escape the unpredictable UK weather, than this diverse, intoxicating, multi-cultural country?

A trip to India also means you're about to jump into the wildest culinary experience of your life, with the variety of different cuisines on offer as diverse as the people and history that have shaped the subcontinent. But with temperatures soaring, what can you eat in order to stay cool? Here are some top tips for experiencing India's best summer treats.

Juicy Tropical Fruits :- The trick to keeping cool during India's hot summer months is to eat food that's easy to digest and contains a lot of natural water. So you have the perfect excuse to munch on lots of juicy tropical fruits such as pineapple, watermelon, lychees, guava, mango, papaya and Indian berries. And who needs an excuse for that?

Heat-Busting Salads :- Salads and raw vegetables such as onions and tomatoes are easily digestible and also contain a lot of water, making them an excellent choice for your summer trip. A tasty, healthy salad such as 'Moong Moth Ka Anokha Salad,' made from sprouts tossed with a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits, is a perfect choice to keep your body temperature down.

 

Fish and Seafood :-If you do fancy a cooked meal, avoid eating too much meat or oily food, and opt instead to enjoy the wonderful variety of fish and seafood on offer. A simple fish stew from the Bengali region of India, known as 'Johl,' made from lightly-fried fish, cooked with spices, potatoes and vegetables, and served with plain boiled rice, is said to cool off your stomach over the summer. It's just the thing to tantalise those taste buds, too!

Curd and Yoghurt :-Eating curd or yoghurt is an excellent alternative to ice cream – the effects of which can be rather short-lived. Curd is a natural coolant, full of nutritional goodness, and it's also delicious and incredibly versatile. Try it with fresh fruits or muesli to start the day, or added to vegetable curries for a rich and delicious flavour. Look out for curd rice, a staple of South India, and try it mixed with cubes of aubergine, mint and garlic for a tasty summer treat.

Drink Plenty of Liquids :-Finally, in order to stay hydrated in those hot summer months, you need to drink plenty of fluids. Again, you're spoilt for choice, as India has a mind-blowing amount of delicious, nutritious drinks to help keep you cool, including natural fruit juices such as watermelon juice or lemonade, fruit shakes, buttermilk, coconut water, green mango drink, green tea, bitter gourd juice, and lassi. Indeed, mango lassi is a favourite summer drink in most regions of India, and a lifesaver for many Indians.

If you choose to visit India during the summer season, look out for these wonderful treats, which will help you to stay cool, and taste fantastic too!

And if you long to recreate an Indian culinary treat from your holiday, or simply wish to try this popular drink, here's a simple recipe for you to try at home:

Mango Lassi :- Buy canned alphonso mango pulp from an Asian shop, and pour it into a blender, along with a little sugar and mix well. Then pour it over ice, sprinkle a little black salt on top (also available in your local Asian shop) and sit in the sun and dream of India! Enjoy!

Discover Romance with the best Romantic Destinations around the World

To keep the spark of love alive, there are many romantic vacations destinations all over the world. India too offers a surprising amount of romantic destinations. The country is known for its alluring blend of Old Europe and yet modern Indian subcontinent. Spending a vacation together rekindles love and it is the best time for a couple to celebrate and know each other.

Kashmir is known as the most romantic vacation destination in India and mesmerizing locations and of course it’s beautiful weather. The paradise on earth has some exotic locations surrounded by nature’s romance. Kashmir offers array of attraction to its vacationers, like hiring the house boat or shikaras and floating on the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. Witness the beautiful gardens and walnut woodcarving and paper Mache workshops. Visit the Dachigam Valley and Dachigam National Park. Pahalgam is yet another place where you can enjoy the natural beauty and engage in sports activities. The ancient temple of Mattan is the famous Hindu temple located here. In Gulmarg enjoy the cable car ride- Gandola.

Kashmir

The other destination on the list is Paris. Filled with French architecture, art, cuisine and enjoying romance in the popular culture. The country’s greatest tourist cliché is the Eiffel Tower, the Arch de Triomphe and the Notre Dame provides the stunning view of the city. Also visit the luxurious Chateau de Versaille, known as the notorious place of Sun king. Also watch out for Chartres Cathedral known as one of the stunning gothic churches in Europe. Paris is full of beautiful gardens and in particular Luxembourg garden which is a great spot for couples adjacent to Luxembourg Castle.

Paris

The next is the splendid Bora Bora; French Polynesia is the best romantic island on the earth. Remote and an untouched paradise, it is undoubtedly the ultimate spot for the just married. Every resort on Bora Bora offers amazing pieces of architecture. Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort and Spa has 80 bungalows and ranked as the best leading small hotel in the world. It is the land where the sand meets the turquoise water and can make you to have a romantic escape on a private island which can be reached only by a canoe. It also includes a picnic and Champagne to live it up on French culture.

Bora Bora

New York is the one of the perfect romantic destination in the world, whether you are planning your
honeymoon or your anniversary. Visit the Central Park, known as the most magical place in New York as the weather remains pleasant throughout the world. It is famous for its carriage rides and boat rides. Visit the Empire State Building from the top to see the view of the glowing city offering a spectacular image of the city’s beauty. For a more romantic spot visit Brooklyn Botanical Garden indoor environments to spend an amazing time with your loved one. Other attractions include Brooklyn Promenade, Hudson River Park and Metropolitan Museum of Art.

New York 

The last on the wish list is the beautiful The Bahamas. Known as the most versatile destinations of the world, whether you are planning a romantic vacation or a adventure trip. There are many attractions in Bahamas like in the capital city of Nassau, visit the National Art Gallery, the Pirate Museum and the Ardrasta Gardens. There is a beautiful paradise island across the bridge from Nasaaau. It has one the massive Atlantis resort that features the most stunning aquariums in the world. However the best place to visit is the Bacardi Distillery which makes the world’s best selling rum.

Bahamas Beach

Do You Know Everything About Indian Festival –Holi ?

India is a secular land of multi-culture and multi-religion people. It is better known as a land of fairs and festivals  where every festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm. For Indian festival are the occasions which bring friends and family together. An Indian great number of festivals are celebrated  throughout the year. Some of the famous festivals celebrated in India are Navratri, Holi, Durga Puja, Raksha Bandhan, Diwali, Eid etc. There is a reason for celebration of every festival.

When I talk about Indian festival Holi –The festival of colors, it instantly reminds me of Gulal and water balloons. The pictures of people smearing each other with different colors crosses my mind, that are sure sights to behold.  Holi is marked by end of winters and the beginning of springs.  It is a time that is cherished by everybody because at this time social barriers lose their strength and fun flows in the air. This festival has a strong connection in Hindu way of living. It is of particular significance to the people living in the Braj region. It is traditionally connected to lord Krishna.

Significance of Holi

 The Indian Festival of Holi is celebrated for two days. The legend behind Holi celebration is as follows: demon Hiranyakashap sister Holika took Prahlad (great devotee of Lord Vishnu and son of Hiranyakashap) in her lap and sat on fire with the intension to kill Prahlad. Holika was blessed with a boon of not getting hurt by fire. But Lord Vishnu saved Prahlad and Holika died in the fire. From that day people started the tradition of Holika Dahan. On the next day people continue to celebrate this festival by throwing different colors at each other. Holi is celebrated not only India but also a number of other countries like Trinidad, Tobago, Nepal and Guyana.

Holika Dahan

Holi celebration

Celebration of Holi

Every Indian celebrates Holi in its own way. Tradition to celebrate the festival differs from one state to another state. This festival having great association with the childhood of Lord Krishna, in itself speaks for the charm of Holi celebration in Vrindavan and Mathura region. While in some parts of the country pots filled with buttermilk are hung high in the streets. A group of men forming a human pyramid tries to break those pots while the women throw water on them in order to stop them. In Barsana, women dress their spouse in female attire and beat them on the day of Holi. Bengal celebrates this festival in the most dignified way. Here, idols of Radha and Krishna are taken out in a procession.    

Holi -Vrindavan

Holi - Mathura

Issues  Related to Holi

One of the major issues related to this festival is the threat of environmental pollution and the use of synthetic colors. The environmentalists are concerned with issues related to the traditional Holika Dahan which leads to deforestation. The natural colors have been replaced by the chemically produced industrial dyes which leads to various forms of allergy to the human skin. The traditionally made colors from turmeric, extract of flowers and sandalwood have been substituted by colors that make use of lead oxide and copper sulfate that do not wash away easily from your skin.