The Qutub complex attracts hundreds of visitors every day and provides them visuals of history dating back to as far as 1192. Tourists come and explore different parts of the complex but are mostly fascinated by the Minar and the Iron Pillar.
When I visited the Qutub Complex , I wanted to see it and capture it the way our ancestors would have seen it on film. I wanted to document the place and it’s significance in the form of Black and White photographs which would make the viewer go back in time.
The photographs you will see below are an interpretation of how I saw the Qutub Complex.
Raja Ravi Varma was a rare master of European techniques and Indian sensibilities. It’s common to see painters from his era, trained in the European style, who later either lost interest in Indian subjects, or found a late muse in the Indian subjects with the establishment of their own styles. This movement from the European towards the unique, like the Bengal School was described by a shift towards simpler techniques, that were focused less on conveying realism and more on the “personal” meaning.
Ravi Varma is different in this sense. His style is not unique, or personal, but his meanings are, as is his treatment of the subjects. At the time when the majority was obsessed with the miniature art, he brought together a photographic and dramatic realism into his works, so far unseen. Here are two works that specify the dramatization that defines his oeuvre.
In this depiction from Ramayana, Rama is painted with modest physical features but his status is elevated by the liberal space of the canvas he acquires in comparison to other characters. His wide-gazed side profile communicates a mix of anger and astonishment. The Lord of the ocean, Varuna, heavily ornate compared to the scantily clad Rama, is running towards him in an apologetic, conciliatory expression. His status, apparent with his size, is also made trivial by the two apsaras that flank him, probably as a representation of his vices.
Another scene from Ramayana, this 1893 oil-on-canvas is a seminal work by the painter. It’s also the only painting that proves that Varma’s mastery extends to capturing human motion, and not just stills and portraits. The diagonal arrangement helps in the description of action, and a sense of depth is added by the severed wing thrown towards the viewer. There’s a fascinating level of details in Ravana’s jewels, which says a lot about his status in the composition. Eyes and facial features have been used with divine precision to achieve dramatization. Upon a longer scrutiny, one can see Jatayu’s blood spattered on the Ravana’s torso, intensifying the drama by adding gore.
It is true that Raja Ravi Varma popularized painting, his lithographs engaging the masses with the realistic representation of southern Women, the Gods and Goddesses, and the mythologies. He was undoubtedly a commercial artist, and it wouldn’t be too harsh on him if we compared his works to action films or comic books.
Escaping all attempts to derank his works to being “artsy”, Varma’s legacy is so ingrained in the country’s commercial art that it’s well possible, for any person born in twentieth century India, to have witnessed the painter’s works without actually knowing it. Countless firecracker packagings, bollywood film posters, calendars, and the romantically decorated tailgates of Indian trucks, all serve as evidence for the existence of a “Ravi Varma School of Painting” that is followed religiously by thousands of incognizant disciples.
Madhya Pradesh is truly called the heart of India. It has served at the center stage of history in the subcontinent, from the prehistoric cultures to the medieval power struggles. Artifacts of this diverse history can be inserted, on both, its land and the people. Here are ten Destinations in Madhya Pradesh that you should consider the next time you visit Madhya Pradesh.
Chanderi
Spotted with lakes and surrounded by hills, this historical town is famous for its textile, especially the Chanderi Sari. Places to visit include the Koshak Mahal and the Chanderi Fort.
Shivpuri
Summer capital of the Scindia Rulers, Shivpuri is alive with lakes, waterfalls, and lush forest cover. Places to visit include the Mughal Garden, Pawa Waterfalls, and the architectural marvel, Madikheda Dam.
Bhind
The Bhind district, bordering with Uttar Pradesh, captures the serenely arid Chambal landscape. The National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary in the region is home to endangered species of Gharial, the red-crowned roofed turtle, and the Ganges Dolphin.
Ken Gharial Sanctuary
Situated at the convergence of the rivers Ken and Khudar, the Ken Sanctuary offers a mixture of rocky patches, forest canopies, and waterfalls like the Raneh waterfall.
Rewa
Named after the Narmada river, Rewa has scenic beauty on offer. Must visit places are the Keoti and Purwa waterfalls, Rani Talab, and the Rewa Fort.
Mandu and Dhar
Crossed by the Vindhya Mountains, Dhar district, former Rajput stronghold has a rich heritage in the form of various monuments that mark its land. Prominent ones are the Jahaz Mahal, Rani Roopmati Mahal, and the Dhar Fort.
Burhanpur
Known as the “Gateway to the South”, Burhanpur was an important Mughal city. The place has many interesting monuments, that are unique to Burhanpur, like the Hammam- or the Royal Bath, and the Begum Shah Shuja Maqbara, which is rich with exquisite frescoes.
Tikamgarh
Tikamgarh has some fine specimens of medieval Mughal and Rajput architecture. The Garh Kundar Fort is definitely one of them. Others include the Raja Mahal, Chaturbhuj Temple, and the Orchha Fort.
Panna
Panna, known famously for its Diamond mines, is located in northeast of Madhya Pradesh. The Panna National Park and the Pandava Caves definitely deserve a visit.
The region of Andaman & Nicobar Islands is massively distinct from the rest of India. Being a paradise for travelers, this place offers endless possibilities along with lifelong experiences to cherish. With that being said, check out some of the best off-beat things to do during your visit to Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Turtles undergo a gestation period, which allows them to lie on the beach surfaces, especially during the months of December and January. You can pick a great tour package and witness this turtle nesting on Ram Nagar Beach, which is a prominent part of Diglipur town.
Marvel at Barren Island Plateau
Image – Thomas Brauner Via Flickr
In recent times, this place has witnessed a volcanic eruption, which makes the Barren Island a dynamic landscape to view while the volcano is not active. The island ranges within a diameter of 3 km and is home to some of the toughest animals including the Flying Foxes, making this island a must visit.
For people who love shopping, Andaman offers an equal amount of possibility. If you want to shop souvenirs at cheap prices, Aberdeen Bazaar is the right place to be. Moreover, you can also shop wood carvings, sweets, Andaman t-shirts and jewelry from this place.
Are you a bird lover? If yes, then Saddle Peak National Park comprises some of the exclusive species of flora and fauna such as the Andaman Hill Myna, Andaman Wild Pig, Andaman Imperial Pigeon, and many more. It is also the highest point in Andaman, so you can have an amazing view of the islands from here.
Turn to Mayabunder for an exciting and fun-filled mangrove boat ride. Since Andaman is always packed with tourists from all corners, in case you want some privacy, untapped beaches like Avis beach at Mayabunder can really cater to your needs.
Bring the theme of movies in reality and spend a night on a beach like Long Island. At Long Island, you will be provided with a beach hut that is a dream come true moment for many couples. Make sure this is included in your Andaman tour package.
A trip to a shoreline asks for collecting seashells, no matter how old you are. Andaman beaches like the Wandoor Beach have some of the whitest seashells you will ever encounter. You can also take part in some of the thrilling water activities when visiting these beaches.
Natural beauty is probably the strongest reason why people mostly look out for an Andaman trip. Clear blue waters, coral reefs, and shallow beaches make the place look like heaven. Book a ferry and take a trip to the mystical lagoon found at the Elephant Beach.
Enjoy Sunset at Ross & Smith Island
Image – Anuradha Via Flickr
Walk or sit beside your loved one and enjoy the sun going down at the Ross & Smith Island, which is also one of the most beautiful islands in Andaman.
Apart from the water activities, you can delve into the amazing views of the pristine emerald green waters of the Cinque Island. The place is easily accessible from Port Blair and you can take a boat in order to better experience the water.
Conclusion
Andaman and Nicobar Islands attract a lot of visitors every year; however, there are some things that still remain untapped. Keep the above-mentioned points in mind and make the most out of your next trip to Andaman.
About Author – Emily is a freelance content writer. She has written many good and informative articles on different categories such as technology, health, fashion, beauty, education, career, travel etc. She is very responsible towards her job. She loves to share her knowledge and experience with her friends and colleagues.
The ‘Char Dham’ yatra is considered an important, once in a lifetime, pilgrimage by followers of the Vaishnavi stream of Hinduism. Sanskrit word Char Dham literally means ‘four shrines’. It can also be interpreted as correlated with the four directions.
The significance of these holy places is mentioned in all the four Vedas, namely, the Atharva Veda, the Rig Veda, the Yajur Veda, and the Sama Veda. They speak of places related to the Hindu deity Lord Vishnu and his various incarnations. Adi Shankaracharya, a Hindu theologian and philosopher propounded that pilgrimages to these four holiest shrines is essential for the attainment of Moksha, or salvation, of any human soul, particularly that which is entrapped by material and carnal desires, and the actions taken for their fulfillment.
Facts about the Char Dham Yatra
According to ancient scriptures, Char Dham Yatra consists of visiting and offering prayers at the following seven locations: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri in Uttarakhand, Dwarka in Gujarat, Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, and Puri in Odisha.
The distant span of these shrines makes it difficult for most Indians to cover all the seven locations. Hence, a majority of Hindus opt for what is often referred as the “Chota Char Dham Yatra”. This pilgrimage covers the four shrines in Uttarakhand.
Several travel companies now term this pilgrimage in Uttarakhand as “the Char Dham Yatra”, as it covers four shrines.
Understanding the Yatra
For anyone wanting to undertake the Char DhamYatra, to the four holy shrines in Uttarakhand, here are some important details.
Access to Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri is open for only six months every year. First from March to May and then from September to November.
More than one million pilgrims from India and abroad take the Char Dham pilgrimage every year.
The Central Government and the Government of Uttarakhand are upgrading infrastructure including roads, rails and air connectivity, laying better highways, improving healthcare facilities, and other services required by pilgrims.
Several top travel companies in India now offer visits to the four shrines in Uttarakhand by helicopter.
The Karnataka government provides subsidy to those members of the economically weaker sections of the state’s population who wish to undertake the Char Dham
Char Dham Travel Tips
The Char Dham Yatra has been marred by several natural disasters. In 2013, a cloudburst in Kedarnath and the ensuing landslides trapped over 100,000 tourists. In 2017, a total of 112 pilgrims perished due to health complications ranging from respiratory problems at high altitudes to cardiac arrests.
To make your Char DhamYatra safe, keep these tips in mind
The safest way to perform the Char DhamYatra is by booking a package with any of the top 10 travel agencies of India. This way, your travel, accommodation and guided visits to shrines are assured. Medical facilities are also pre-arranged by these travel companies.
Obtain a Char DhamYatra pilgrimage ID card issued by the Uttarakhand Government to registered pilgrims. This ensures your access from the government, in case of emergencies.
Practice walking for long durations well in advance before embarking on Char DhamYatra. This will ensure you have adequate stamina to cover the distances between the shrines and the drop-off points for vehicles.
Get yourself checked for any heart-related ailments and respiratory problems. Often, tourists with health problems are denied permission to perform the pilgrimage by the government. This restriction is to safeguard the life of pilgrims.
Aadhar Card is now mandatory for pilgrims performing the Yatra. This is done to keep records of visitors from every state.
Ensure that you carry a reliable smartphone, high capacity power bank, and required cables when embarking. Also keep your prepaid mobile account topped up. At some mountainous locations, you may face network issues and hence, it is advised that you carry two SIM cards.
Unless you are booking a package from a top travel agency, it is advisable to travel in groups. Families traveling with senior citizens and children may consider booking a travel package since facilities you may require are assured by the travel agencies.
Carrying laptops and cameras is best avoided since these require extra care and add to your luggage. Instead, use a smartphone for taking pictures. Should you take a camera, ensure you have sufficient batteries and a high capacity memory card. Protective bags for cameras are advisable to protect the gear from climatic damages.
Carry a first-aid kit consisting of bandages, pain killers, antiseptic crème, antacid, antibiotics, and anti-diarrhea medications.
Carry a sufficient stock of the prescription medicines, since these may not be easily available during the pilgrimage.
Always consume bottled drinking water. Alternatively, you can carry water disinfecting tablets or Potassium Permanganate powder (food grade) to decontaminate water obtained from local sources.
Wear comfortable clothes during the pilgrimage. In winters too, wear comfortable woolens. Physical activity during a Char DhamYatra does not warrant wearing tight fitting garments.
Though you may travel in summer months, pack along some warm clothing since the temperatures at high altitudes drop drastically after dusk.
Remember to carry sufficient currency notes of small denominations. You will require these at temples and other places. Vendors outside shrines are wary of accepting currency notes of large denominations since they could be counterfeit.
Never patronize touts or the self-styled agents who sell ‘easy darshan’ or promise to help you jump queues. These touts operate illegally and may flee with your cash.
Should you encounter any health problem or feel uneasy during the journey, alert your guide, or a policeman or any security personnel on the route immediately. You can also dial 108 for ambulance service.
Never attempt a Yatra during monsoons, since the route is notorious for landslides, falling trees and other natural hazards.
A large number of charity organizations offer free (and hygienic) meals on the route.
Carry chocolate bars and bottled energy beverages to help retain the energy levels during intense physical activity.
It is best to avoid carrying leather goods during a yatra such as belts, wallets, purses and watches with straps made of material obtained from animal hides.
It is good to carry along some emergency equipment, including a good flashlight and Swiss Army multitool.
Package Tour or DIY
Should you book your Char DhamYatra through a top travel agent in India, you will be provided with a list of do’s and dont’s during the pilgrimage. These are aimed at making your pilgrimage a happy and memorable experience. You can book them online or from brick-and-mortar offices of the agencies.
Some travel firms also allow you to book the holiday package and pay monthly installments, either in advance or upon completion of the pilgrimage. However, there is some religious debate over taking credit for a pilgrimage.
In Conclusion
We reiterate that booking a package through a top travel agent is the best way to perform this pilgrimage. Though it may cost a bit higher than venturing on your own, assured facilities and safety more than justify the expense and provide excellent value for money.
Tour guides, assured accommodation, fixed meals and excellent transport arrangements make packages more attractive. Doing it yourself involves several uncertainties, especially since the shrines and their nearby towns get crowded during the two seasons of the pilgrimage.
Author Bio – Harshal is avid travel writer who works at Thingsinindia.in. She is passionate about travel, books and shopping.
When Ricciotto Cuando called cinema the seventh art, extrapolating on Hegel’s five arts, he couldn’t have contemplated how big the medium would become. Films have so abundantly populated it, that it’s almost impossible to imagine the modern human culture without them.
When we talk about films on environment, there are the big-budget disaster films, made for mindless consumption. There is also a league of films that don’t end the dialogue with the rolling of end credits. Here are three documentaries and a feature film to get you thinking seriously about climate change (listed in the prescribed order of viewing).
David Guggenheim, who has also directed “He Named Me Malala”, made the documentary in 2005 featuring the former US vice-president and environmentalist, Al Gore. The film describes the science behind climate change, in a way that is engages the mind and replaces skepticism with a feeling of plausibility. As it was released in the wake of the devastating Hurricane Katrina, it also makes a solid point about the loss of life which directly results from global warming.
Before the flood
Produced, co-directed, and narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio, this documentary presents the looming threat of world-wide climate change, a decade after An Inconvenient Truth, with an immediacy that is frightening and awakening at the same time. The film describes how the world has already seen major irreversible changes due to global warming, and how the underdeveloped areas are the most affected.
It also serves as a conscience for the USA, one of the major carbon dioxide emitters, shedding light on how major American oil corporations are funding climate change denial. Before the Flood necessitates a watch especially in light of United States’ planned exit from the crucial Paris deal.
This Andrei Tarkovsky film is a masterpiece of cinema. Ordinarily, this film wouldn’t be considered an environment film, but it features in this list because of the reasons that follow. Firstly, it shows a dystopian landscape, corroded to an uninhabitable state by factories and power plants. Secondly, the only place that is “beautiful” is heavily guarded by authorities, out of reach for law-abiding citizens. Thirdly, it has some interesting arguments about hope and human greed. Finally, it coincidentally predicted the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, with an unsettling degree of detail.
The film is significant because it paints a practically accurate future, as in, how our world would be if humanity’s disruptive trajectory continues. It deserves a watch if you know about Fukushima. The film’s plot is adapted from the novel Roadside Picnic. You can freely watch the film on the Mosfilm official youtube channel.
Time to Choose
With Time to Choose, the Academy Award winning filmmaker, Charles Ferguson brings optimism to the climate change argument. Oscar Isaac briefly narrates the crisis, then shifting the focus to solutions that can be implemented with the technologies available today.
Are you fitness freak? If yes, your daily schedule involves workouts either at home or at the gym. It is a good sign that you are making workout the part of your regular activity. You might have selectively chosen the exercise equipment you have to work on to keep your body fit but, are you selective about choosing the active wear for work out? It is important to choose your active wear selectively to maximize the benefits of your workout. Here are the tips to help you select right active wear for the workout.
Most of them choose to go by regular wear to save few bucks to the pocket thinking that the kid of apparel they wear during the workout does not make any difference. The fact, the kind of apparel you choose to wear during the workout that has a lot to do with giving the benefits of the workout.
List the type of the workout
The types of workout people do to burn the calorie varies according to the persons. Some people indulge in running number of miles regularly to burn calories and few do some simple exercises, yoga or aerobics so, the apparel should be chosen accordingly. Other factors to consider are the number of hours you allocate for a workout in a day, hours you spend on indoor and outdoor workout and climatic conditions you live in. Apart from the pants and other sports apparel, women should give special attention to the bra they choose to wear during the workout. Choose to pick the correct size that keeps you more flexible and comfortable during the workout.
Type of apparel
There are many types of active apparel for both men and women. You should first make the inventory of the things you have in the closet and start shopping for the sports apparel. You should skip wearing cotton apparel for the workout during the summer, the fabric becomes sweaty and rubs against your skin causing irritation but, the apparel in the cotton fabric is an excellent choice if you are going for a brief walk outside. On the other hand, choosing the apparel with synthetic and moisture fabric will help in pulling the sweat away and allow it to evaporate quickly.
Size matters
When you are shopping for the clothes for your regular workouts, measuring the size of the body is very important. You should make sure you pick the right one to keep you comfortable and flexible during the workouts. You should measure the size of hip and bust, upper and lower arms. Keep your objective of the work in the mind while choosing the apparel.
Address the need
The fundamental aspect that one should check in while choosing the sportswear is it should prevent your body from sweating when you are on a workout. Online stores like ZAFUL are now making technology advanced apparel. These apparel have anti microbial treatments to combat odor. Few have ultraviolet protection to fight against harmful sun rays; they are the best choice when you are choosing the sportswear for workouts outdoor.
Shopping online
Many products can be shipped to your doorstep just on a click; workout apparel is not an exception. If you plan to buy active wear online, you should filter the options according to the fabric, size and the type of the workout you are going to choose to burn your calories. This will make your shopping easy and brings down the list option you have on a single webpage according to applied filters. You can now pick the one you want based on the budget you have to purchase apparel.
A holiday abroad was something that majority of Indians could only dream about, some years ago. This was mainly due to high airfares and hassles of procuring a visa to travel to some country. This scenario has drastically changed over the past few years. Low Cost Carriers (LCCs) operating to foreign destinations from India combined with affordable accommodation that can be booked online has put holidays abroad within reach for a broader section of Indian society.
In a bid to attract tourist, the government now allows citizens of some 140 countries to enter India with the electronic visa (e-visa) and visa-on-arrival. In reciprocity, several foreign nations now offer same facilities to Indian passport holders too. Meaning, you need not undergo the hassles of applying for a visa to visit these countries, prior to departure: you can get one easily upon arrival at destination or are allowed visa-free entry and stay for limited duration.
Current Scenario
Thanks to these developments, a large number of Indians, ranging from college students to senior citizens now travel for holidays abroad. However, Indians are a picky lot. They prefer to travel to foreign countries more for the status it accords as well as shopping, rather than the real purpose of tourism, which is primarily to get insights into a different culture and its way of life.
Hundreds of Indians travel to Thailand daily. This is because of cheap airfares, short flying time of about four to five hours from India to Thailand and the visa-on-arrival facility that Indian passport holders enjoy. For a fee of Thai Baht 2,000, you can get a visa-on-arrival at the country’s main gateway, Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Chonburi near Bangkok. Most Indians travel to Thailand to avail of carnal pleasures and ‘massages’ and cheap shopping.
After decades of insurgency, Sri Lanka which shares a common maritime frontier with India offers visa free entry to Indian passport holders. Upon arrival at the Bandaranayake International Airport in Katunayake, Indian passport holders are given a visa-free entry that permits a stay of 30 days with restrictions on taking paid or unpaid work. Sri Lanka is culturally similar to India and offers excellent sun-and-sand as well as eco-tourism. For Indian nationals, Sri Lanka is a relatively inexpensive destination and hence, shopping is also a major attraction.
State of Qatar
Qatar Via Pixabay
The tiny State of Qatar is a peninsular country in the Arabian Gulf which offers e-visa and visa-on-arrival facility to Indian citizens. This country is also host to a large Indian expatriate community. Qatar is a fairly expensive travel destination, considering the high quality tourism infrastructure. However, the country offers rare attractions such as Khor Al Udeid inland sea, desert safaris with overnight stay in tents and belly dancing shows, unique museums and places of historic interest.
United Arab Emirates is best known for two destinations: Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This country in the Arabian Gulf offers Indian passport holders, visa-on-arrival as well as e-visas that can be applied directly or through the four airlines- Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia and Fly Dubai. Additionally, hotels in Dubai also arrange visas for Indian nationals upon booking confirmed accommodation. Dubai has several man-made and natural attractions including desert drives in Hatta, excellent shopping at glitzy malls and amazing beaches, among others.
Nestling in valleys of the Himalayas and between India and China, this country welcomes Indians without visas and in some cases, without passports too. Entry into Nepal is possible by road, via border checkpoints in Uttar Pradesh. The Tribhuvan International Airport receives number of scheduled flights from airlines in India daily. Entry by road is possible by driving your own vehicle and by bus. In some instances, a valid Voter ID card from India is also accepted for entry into Nepal. The country has excellent shrines such as Pasupatinath, Temple of Virgin Goddess, Lumbini, the birth place of Gautama Buddha as well as national parks such at Sagarmatha and Chitwan.
Kingdom of Bhutan
Bhutan – Aymaan Ahmed Via Flickr
The Kingdom of Bhutan on India’s north eastern borders offers visa-free entry to Indian citizens. However, the country lays a cap on the number of tourists it will receive every year, due to concerns over environment. Entry to Bhutan is by air, from the Paro International Airport or road from border checkpoints in Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh states. Indian travelers, like other nationalities, have to book a holiday package through Bhutanese travel agents prior to arrival. The country is truly a paradise on earth. However, it is a expensive destination due to the superior tourism infrastructure and facilities that visitors enjoy.
For discerning Indians who wish to experience a world-class jungle and wildlife safari, Kenya offers the best. Indian passport holders can avail of a visa-on-arrival at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi or the Moi International Airport, Mombasa for payment of 50 Shillings. Both these major gateways offer a host of tourist attractions including shopping for tribal crafts, dining at the world famous Carnivore restaurant where barbecued meat of exotic animals is served and historic monument. The main attraction of Kenya is the Masai Mara safari that offers tourists the opportunity to experience life of Masai tribe of Kenya, dense forests inhabited by wild animals that surround their dwellings.
This Indian Ocean island is considered as part of Africa. The country is immensely popular among Indian tourists since it offers visa-free entry. However, Mauritius is not an inexpensive destination, though several Indian movies, including Bollywood blockbusters have been set there. Mauritius is famous for its clear waters and white sand beaches. You can also take a ride in glass-bottomed boats that allow excellent views of underwater life. Beaches in Mauritius offer excellent water sports while the capital Port Louis is bound to enthrall any avid shopper.
Indonesia is an archipelagic country that was once ruled by dynasties of Indian origin. You can get a visa on arrival at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and designated entry points for a fee of US$ 35. The visa permits stay for 28 days. Indonesia has myriad tourist attractions including Bali, the world famous beach resort. Capital Jakarta itself has several places of historic and tourism interest as well as superb malls. Ancient Hindu and Buddhist shrines such as Parambanan and Borobudur make Indonesia ideal for tourists with spiritual bent too. There is no dearth of destinations one can visit in Indonesia.
Republic of Seychelles
Seychelles – Falco Ermert Via Flickr
Seychelles is also an island nation in the Indian Ocean and considered as part of Africa. Indians are permitted visa-free entry into Seychelles for a period of 28 days. The country has been widely popularized in India since several movies were set in Seychelles. In addition to sun-and-sand tourism, Seychelles is a very serene destination that makes it excellent for honeymooners. Capital city Victoria has splendid night life and world class shopping. However, Seychelles is not a destination for those on thrift. The country attracts tourists from all over the world and hence has excellent infrastructure, which can prove pricey for budget travelers.
Point to Remember
Before packing your bags to depart for a visa-free destination or where you can get visa-on-arrival, it is advisable to read visa rules and regulations of that country that are currently in force. Such facilities for entering a country are often subject to certain conditions. You need to possess a return or onward ticket, proof of funds to support stay in the foreign country, vaccination certificates and other documents. These vary according to the country and are subject to change sans notice.
Remember, an e-visa, visa-on-arrival and visa free entry is merely a privilege given to Indians. You cannot claim it as your right when entering a foreign country. The final decision to permit entry into any country rests with the immigration officer processing your passport. An immigration officer is empowered to deny entry into the country for various reasons. Hence ensure you comply with all immigration related rules of the country you wish to travel. Its also important to have a better communication with the family and friends when you are travelling abroad hence its is advisable to carry your cell phone with a SIM card that supports international calls. Global SIM card really come handy for avid travellers. Global SIM card covers more than 165 countries and you can use it for future purpose without changing your umber
In Conclusion
There are several other countries that also offer visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival facilities to Indian passport holders. These include Republic of The Philippines, which consists of over 7,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia- an African state largely unexplored by Indians and Moldova, an East European country that was part of the erstwhile Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). However, limited connectivity from India to these excellent tourist destinations proves a major impediment. Indian nationals can avail of visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry at some 60 countries in Asia, Africa, Central Europe and South America, Oceana and the Caribbean islands. You can explore some of these destinations on fairly moderate budgets.
There are many ways to make money from foreign travel. One is by selling photos of tourist attractions and off-beat places in the country. Other is by selling handicrafts from that country.
Are you looking for Pre-Wedding Photo Shoot locations, Professional pre-wedding photo shoot ideas?
Photos that can make you laugh, cry or smile after another decade has passed. Pre-Wedding Couple Photography or Fun-Filled Romantic Couple photography is an inseparable part of Wedding photography and as important as the wedding picture.
Nowadays, Pre-wedding photography is one of the trends which have emerged in India. The real aim of Pre-wedding shoots to capture the love and personal essence of a couple. These days all the couples are going all out to do something out of the box. They are trying new off-beat destinations and concepts.
Why You Should Have Pre-Wedding Photo Shoot
When the rest of your life is made the best of your life, you know it all started with Pre-wedding photos!!
It’s a great way to bond
Photographs can be used creatively
The time you spend before marriage is sweet nothings.
Reveals the kind of couple you are
So you’re thinking of getting a pre-wedding photo shoot location ideas? Sometimes it requires a careful research for choosing your photographer to the selection of the locations. So we bring you top 7 Pre-wedding photo shoot places in India you just can’t Miss!
Top 7 Striking Pre-Wedding Photo Shoot Places in India
Taj Mahal- Agra
Image by Avnish Dhoundiyal
The scenic beauty of Taj Mahal can’t be described in words. Taj Mahal “Symbol of Love” remains to be one of the most preferred choices amongst couples for a unique photo shoot.
Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The ivory marble’s and magnificence of The Taj Mahal is indescribable, and this is the perfect destination to capture two souls in sheer love beginning a new life together.
Munnar & Alleppey are the perfect gem of a place to get the pre wedding photo shoot done. Munnar & Alleppey, these two are the one of most popular hill station in India.
The hills & unique landscape and Jaw dropping picturesque backgrounds give you the magical shot to your love story on camera.
Kumarakom Lake Resort is only unparalleled in any other places, possess some photo shoot in those snake boats or at the lush greeneries or in the heavy water lakes.
Shimla and Manali – Himachal Pradesh
Image – Pixel Dhaba
If you are a couple who loves gorgeous landscape, forests and wetlands like ponds and nature at the same time, then these 2 hill stations are one of the most glistening places for pre wedding shoots.
Heritages, class, royalty – if these are the expressions that you feel close to, then out of above 3 excellent places, Udaipur is the best choice for pre wedding photo shoot. Some of the Best Locations for Pre-Wedding Shoot in Udaipur are The Oberoi Udaivilas, Fateh Sagar lake, Sajjangarh, Badi lake, The Royal Retreat Resort & Spa, and Shouryagarh Resort & Spa.
Captivating, surreal, and refreshingly romantic pre-wedding shoots, the Goa beaches and scenic beauty brings out perfect tropical love feeling to every couple. Get into the flow of the Couple who’s getting into an adventurous life commitment. One of the best pre wedding photo shoot place in Goa are Park Hyatt Resort and Spa, Radisson Blu, Alila Diwa Goa, Kenilworth Beach Resort and Spa, and Vivanta by Taj – Fort Aguada.
Delhi
Image – Lifeworksstudios.com
Delhi, the Capital of India, A treasure trove of culture and historical structure, Delhi, could be the ideal mixture of heritage and nature and is going to be a beautiful background to the amorous Pre Wedding photo-shoot that would help you make memories for life. Here are some of the best pre wedding shoot locations in Delhi I would like to recommend to you are – Hauz Khas Village, South Delhi, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate, Humayun’s Tomb, Mathura Road, Agrasen ki Baoli near Connaught Place, Connaught Place, Central Delhi and The Rail Museum, Chanakyapuri.
Hyderabad City, capital of southern India’s Telangana state. Catching up to be one of the best locations to visit and have a good time. Hyderabad is a perfect mixture of medieval and modern architecture, ethnicity, color and race. The best pre wedding photo shoot place in Hyderabad are taramati baradari, Taj Falaknuma, lotus pond, Leonia resort, and Golconda.
This is all about best Pre-wedding photo shoot locations in India. So, best of luck for your pre wedding shoot, we hope you found this post useful and will use them for your pre-wedding photo shoots!
Author Bio
Saurabh Tiwari is a Digital Marketer at DevHiTech and Part-time Blogger at Techibhai. I love to Write about Travel, Blogging, SEO, and Product Reviews.
All over the world, India is well known for its diversity, spices and jewelry. Not only that, but India’s traditional attire has also earned distinguishing admiration from all over the globe. It can rightly be said that these dresses have evolved through the diverse geography of India – each state in India has its own culture and style, which has helped pave a way towards different kinds of traditional Indian clothing. The credit, however, goes to the artisans that have created these dresses, requiring a really hardworking labor and a lot of attention to detail, with such incredible craftsmanship. Let’s look at some of these creations and get to know the touch of trends and developments each outfit has received.
One of the most wonderful traditional dresses of India, Sari is probably the outfit that describes and depicts an Indian woman. Generally talking about Indian women makes you picture a beautiful young woman clad in a gorgeous sari.
What is a sari? A sari is basically a four to nine meters of unstitched clothing that a woman drapes on her body in numerous ways. The most common draping style is wrapping the sari around the waist with the pallu (one end) diagonally draped to one side covering the chest. Underneath the sari, women wear a petticoat or a blouse, which is a fitted crop top.
The popular varieties of sari include Northern, Eastern, Central, Southern and Bangladeshi saris, which divide into further categories relating to geographical locations. Sari is one traditional dress of India that hasn’t evolved much over time, but the modern sari has certainly changed in terms of designs, fabric, embellishments, weaving styles and patterns. The modern sari definitely makes choosing one out of the many options available hard, as each one is to die for.
Sari – Source Pixabay
Shalwar Kameez
Commonly referred to as a Punjabi suit, the shalwarkameez is an amazingly decent outfit, which gives a really graceful look. The pathans of Kabul were the ones who introduced this dress in South Asia and now the shalwarkameez is consistently evolving with more innovative styles, designs and patterns. Normally the shalwar refers to a loose fit pyjama, narrow from the bottom and wide from the top, with pleats at the waist, held by a drawstring or an elastic belt.
On the other hand, the kameez is a long tunic that is open from the sides starting from underneath the waist line. The modern Punjabi suits, however, are different because of their cuts and shapes. The former shalwarkameez has transformed into Patiala shalwar suits (Patiala shalwar is like the normal shalwar, but with a greater number of pleats), churidar suits (churidar is a trouser like pyjama with excess length at the bottom arranged as bangles), trouser suits (trousers are tightly fitting pyjamas) with varying kameez lengths.
All in all, shalwarkameez, teamed with a dupatta (long scarf), is a classy ethnic ensemble that is comfortable as well as an elegant pick.
Famous in most of Northern India like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat, lehnga choli or ghagra choli is possibly the heart-throb of every Indian woman. This traditional dress with its unique style and design is definitely worth the admiration and status it has achieved.
Talking about what a lehnga or ghagra actually is, let me tell you that it is a long pleated skirt. What sets it apart from other western skirts is the fabric, embroidery and fancy motif work its clothing deals with. The choli is a blouse, just like the one worn with the sari. These two are then grouped with a dupatta that can be draped in any way preferred: over the shoulder, wrapped at the waist, tucked into the skirt, draped halfway like a sari, worn over the neck, etc. Once all the setting up has finished, the final look of the lehnga choli or ghagra choli is perfect for almost every fancy celebration, but is mostly favored for Indian wedding ceremonies. Lehnga or ghagra hasn’t modernized much other than the fact that its fabric, embellishment and dupatta draping style keeps on alternating and getting better and better. To sum up, lehnga choli or ghagra choli is a traditional Indian dress that surely won’t disappoint.
If you’re an Indian women then you already know that all of these traditional Indian dresses are a must have, so why wait? And if you want to try something new, then try the modern looks of these traditional attires, so that you keep up with the latest trends and fashions all the while looking beautiful as ever.
If you’re a non-Indian women, then after reading this article and looking at the images, you must be witnessing an urge to get yourself all of the abovementioned clothing. So, get to shopping ASAP and try all of these dresses to grasp flattering compliments from family and friends.
Author Bio:
At The Saree Palace, Heeral Thakkar commenced with the vision of inspiring the world with her fabulous and stylish clothing line. Heeral is a pioneer in providing an Indian culture and tradition in California. Presently, people from all over the country are interested in shopping from this first ever Indian bridal boutique. With experience in hand and unique fashion trends in mind, Heeral has become one of the most exquisite fashion designer in the country.
