10 Migratory Birding Destinations in India for Bird Lovers

November 25, 2019

The winter brings in the chill and the draught. But it also brings with it a host of the flight beauties who travel from far and wide. Escaping the low temperatures of their home, these birds travel the distance in search of warmer zones. The winters are when flocks of birds migrate across borders in search of warmer and cozier habitats.

India due to the wonderfully spread out, diverse landscapes and weather conditions, is a huge hub for migratory birds that make it home for a few months. A large number of various migratory birds perch within its territory as bird watchers head towards birding destinations, armed with binoculars and a skip in their step.

Here is taking a look at some of the bird watching destinations that can be visited during the winters to catch sight of the beautiful and mesmerizing migratory beauties.

1. Chilka Lake

Migratory Birding Destinations in India Chilka Lake — Image – Pixabay

The brackish waters of the popular Chilka Lake is one of the largest assembling areas for migratory birds. Around 92 different migratory bird species are found here during the winters. Some of the birds that you can expect to find at the lake are Pintail Duck, Pochard Duck, flamingoes, raptors, waders and more. The Nalabana Island, Kalupadaghat Islands and Mangalajodi Islands are great bird sighting areas within the lake.

2. Keoladeo Ghana National Park

Migratory Birding Destinations in India Keoladeo Ghana National Park — Image – Pixabay

Often called a ‘bird paradise’, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park was known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Located in Rajasthan the national park becomes home to thousands of migratory birds during the winters. Some of the birds found here are herons, different species of ducks, storks, pelicans, cranes and more.

3. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Migratory-Birding-Destinations-in-India Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary — Image – Wikimedia

The Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is the largest wetland sanctuary in Gujarat. It has more than 200 migratory birds during the winters. He birds stay around until March-April. Some of the birds at the Nal Sarovar Sanctuary are pelicans, Brahminy ducks, grebes, moorhen, flamingoes, herons etc.

4. Sundarban National Park

The Sunderbans are known for its tiger and other wildlife, but it is chirping haven too during the winters. With around 250 species of migratory birds finding shelter at the Sunderban National Park, it is a definite wildlife hotspot. The birds seen here are cormorants, pintail, curlew, storks, herons, poachard and more.

5. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Migratory-Birding-Destinations-in-India-Kumarakom-Bird-Sanctuary — Image – Mountainamoeba / Flickr

Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in Kerala, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary abounds in beauty. The Siberian crane, wagtails, flycatchers, cormorants, herons, egrets etc.

6. Rann of Kutch and the Desert National Park

Migratory-Birding-Destinations-in-India Rann of Kutch and the Desert National Park — Image – Vaidyarupal / Flickr

The Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is abuzz with a thriving avian wildlife. During the winter season the Kutch area is graced by the presence of cranes, flamingoes, short-eared owls etc. Similarly, the Desert National Park in Rajasthan is a paradise for migratory birds due to its desert climate. Falcons, buzzards, harriers are some of the migratory birds found in the Desert National Park.

7. Pulicat Lake

Migratory-Birding-Destinations-in-India-Pulicat-Lake — Image – Nagarajan Kanna / Flickr

Cutting across the state borders of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, the Puicat Lake is fraught with flamingoes, storks, pelican, herons and egrets during the winters. Also seen are shorebirds, spoonbills, warblers and flycatchers.

8. Eaglenest Sanctuary

Migratory-Birding-Destinations-in-India Eaglenest Sanctuary — Image – Yathin / Flickr

Recently popularized, the Eaglenest Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh is home to the varied species of the Himalayan region. With more than 400 bird species this beautifully lush sanctuary is a birding heaven.

9. Jim Corbett National Park

Migratory-Birding-Destinations-in-India Jim Corbett National Park — Image – Koshy Koshy / Flickr

One of the oldest national parks of the country, the Jim Corbett National Park has more than 500 bird species, some of which are migratory and some local. Some of the migratory birds spotted here are forktails, Brown dipper, species of wagtail, wallcreepers and more.

10. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Migratory-Birding-Destinations-in-India Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary — Image – Subir sen / Flickr

The Ranganathittu Sanctuary in Karnataka is along the Kavery River. Migratory birds, such as species of storks, plover, river tern, egrets, patridges, herons and swallows are seen here.

Some of the other birding destinations to check out during the winters are the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh, Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary in Maharashtra, Kaziranga National Park, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary in Kerala, Muthupet Sanctuary and Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary in Haryana.

Step out this winter to catch sight of the flapping wings, vivid colors and beady eyes of exotic birds that migrate from across lands and seas. They won’t be around for too long!

Experiencing the Winter Vibes of Kasauli

Swati Mor

November 22, 2019

Experiencing-the-Winter-Vibes-of-Kasauli — Image – Vikram Singh / Flickr

The exquisite hill-station of Kasauli is located at an altitude of 1,927 m in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that when Lord Hanuman reached the Sanjeevani Hill, he placed his feet here which lead to the inception of KASAULI. When it comes to the question of how the place got its name, there exist two schools of thought behind it. Firstly, the name “KASAULI” is believed to have come from the flower named “Kusmali” or “Kusmawali” which means ‘flower maiden’ and this flower is a speciality of the place and it blossoms from spring to autumn season spreading its sweet fragrance around the terrain. Secondly, it is believed that KASAULI was named after the water reservoir named ‘KAUSALYA’ which flows in the mountains between the region of Kasauli and Jabli. The magnificent beauty of Kasauli is one of the reasons to visit and explore this place. Some of the places which make Kasauli a heavenly site are as follows –

Dagshai

This place is believed to be haunted. During the rule of the Mughals, the criminals were sent for capital punishment to this place and hence the town got its name “Daag-e-Shahi” which means “Royal Stain”. Later its name was refined over time and it is currently known as Dagshai. When the Britishers colonized India they turned it into their army cantonment in 1847. Dagshai is believed to be a favourite hotspot during the British time. The fresh atmosphere, greenery and beautiful mountains are still bewitching. Although, this hilly terrain which is situated at an altitude of 5,689 feet is not very famous amongst the tourists.

Gurkha Fort

This fort is surrounded by dense forests and is situated at an elevation of 4500 feet on the bank of the Gambar stream. It was built in the early 19th century by the Gurkha’s with the intention of fighting the British Army. Others believe that the Gurkhas captured it from the custody of the then King of Patiala. It consists of cannons that are more than 180 years old, used during the Gurkha Wars. Currently, most of the portion of the town comes under the army cantonment area which also consists of the Gurkha training centre.

Christ Church

Formerly the church was known as Anglican Church. The British family who laid the foundation of Kasauli were the ones to construct the magnificent building of Christ Church. The church is constructed in the form of a cross and was inspired by the European style of architecture.

Gilbert Trail

Gilbert Trail is a short nature walk through the magnificent landscape of the valley. The track is around 1.5 km long and begins from the Kasauli Club. The path is wide in the beginning and then turns into a narrow path. The freshness around the area along with the beautiful sound of birds chirping makes this trail a pleasing place for nature lovers.

Monkey Point

Situated on the Dhauladhar range, this is the peak point of Kasauli. Believed to be formed from the feet of Lord Hanuman, while taking the Sanjeevani herb for the cure of poisonous scars on Lord Laxman. A temple devoted to Lord Hanuman rests atop the peak. The spectacular view of the whole valley and the sparkling Sutlej river flowing through the plains can be seen from the top of the hill.

Sunset Point

The sunset point is situated adjacent to the Gilbert trail which offers a beautiful scenic view of the sunset. The hilltop gives a great overview of the whole city of Chandigarh, Kalka and Panchkula. During the night, this place gives a marvelous view of the entire sky full of bright stars and constellations. The clear blue sky complements the sunset view making it a perfect picturesque sight. The rays of the sun infuses the whole place with the golden hue that sets ablaze the hilltop thus dispersing beauty.

Greet 2020 with These Top 6 Happening Discos for a Vibrant New Year Party in Delhi

Caleidoscope

November 20, 2019

Happening Discos for a Vibrant New Year Party in Delhi — Image

The countdown for the New Year 2020 has begun and if you are in Delhi, then, it’s time you should plan for one of the best new year 2020 parties during the Eve celebration. Delhi, which can also be referred to as the heart of India, has a varied and unique nightlife of its own. These are the places where people party like there is ‘no tomorrow’ with an electrifying club and the culture around it is all about feeling alive to the live performance.

Delhi’s nightlife revolves around the variation of classiest bars, luxury hotels, and a young, vibrant approach. If you are looking to make a fresh start to this new year with an enthusiastic attitude, then get yourself ready for the grand celebration. The top discos in Delhi are waiting with their underground rave parties, grooving DJ music and EDM awaiting for you to step-in. So, here are six happening discos you can go through to chill out for the New Year 2020 parties in Delhi.

Top 6 happening discos for a vibrant new year party in Delhi

When it’s about making a new year celebration in the dancefloor with drinks and rave parties, Delhi has some top discos destination of its own. However, since there are so many places to choose from, here is a compiled list of the top 6 disco places for the new year 2020 parties in Delhi.

Kitty Su Dancefloor, Connaught Place

Happening-Discos-for-a-Vibrant-New-Year-Party-in-Delhi-Kitty-Su — Image Courtesy – Kitty Su

This place is famous for hosting parties from international electronic music artists. These make you get-go with the vibe and the flow. Kitty Su offers top-notch music quality, multiple bars and a large dancefloor. The funky decor of the club adds to its party vibe. Kitty Su is among one of the best nightclubs in Delhi to shake your leg to the beats. Also, it is the only nightclub in India that has been featured in DJ Mag’s Top 100 clubs of the world. This place remains open on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Privee’ the Ecstasy, Connaught Place

Happening-Discos-for-a-Vibrant-New-Year-Party-in-Delhi-Privee’-the-Ecstasy — Image Courtesy – Privee

Privee’ the Ecstasy is a new entrant to this nightclub genre. They have a large dance floor with a party place over 10,335 sq. ft. and also has a VIP zone. If you have a desire to rock yourself in a luxurious place, then head on to Privee’ the Ecstasy. Why? Cause they aim to provide you with a futuristic, luxurious and a world-class experience. This nightclub mainly booms out commercial Bollywood and EDM music. This place remains open from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m.

The Hong Kong Club, Aerocity

Happening-Discos-for-a-Vibrant-New-Year-Party-in-Delhi-The-Hong-Kong-Club — Courtesy – The Hong Kong Club

Celebrate this new eve with all its eccentricities and madness of partying in a Euphoric affair at Hong Kong Club. The club has rave-up with 20+ artist to set the dancefloor on fire. Shaking your leg on this dancefloor will give you the unlimited joy of enjoying Cantonese food with premium spirits. Also, enjoy the best live entertainment with Saxophonist Abi Rose, Dj Idelson, and acrobatic dancers.

Here, the packages start from Rs 12,500 onwards and the timing is from 6 p.m. onwards.

Lithiyum, Chanakyapuri

This place was opened in 2017. It replaces the iconic club Capitol of the Ashok’s Hotel with a luxurious uniqueness of its own. Lithiyum got a complete makeover, and the place is divided into three segments – a lounge, nightclub and a dining restaurant. Currently, the club is also known for its high-end sounds system. Here, the variation of music depends upon the festivities and celebration which rages from desi Bollywood music to house. Also, they have a renowned celebrity chef Akshay Nayar to give you the taste of international food items. This venue remains open from 10 p.m. until 4 a.m.

Tamasha, Connaught Place

Happening-Discos-for-a-Vibrant-New-Year-Party-in-Delhi Tamasha — Image Courtesy – Tamasha

Tamasha is best known for its rooftop parties and creative decor. The place is over 16,000 square feet and is a three-storeyed building. It has five separate areas, including hookah lounge, courtyard, backyard, rooftop and rustic style mezzanine. The entrance of the bar is designed like a truck to portray a unique creative perspective of its own. Moreover, it creates its hype with great music parties, cocktails and delicious foods. This place is opened at noon and remains open until 1 a.m.

Junkyard Cafe, Connaught Place

You may not believe, but sometimes old junk can do wonders. And The Junkyard Cafe is the best place to experience that. This abstract place comes alive with the nightfall on weekends when Dj’s set on their turntable. The concept is such that it makes itself apart and if it is about experiencing something new, then head on to Junkyard Cafe, which opens at noon and closes at 1 a.m.

If you need an antidote to keep yourself feel alive after work, then head on any one of these destinations in Delhi. All these places have charged up for the New Year 2020, and now it is up to you to make a difference.

Experience the Old-world Charm of Goa by Staying at Cidade de Goa

Caleidoscope

November 20, 2019

Goa, the quintessential beach getaway is where everybody needs a piece of susegad. The combination of sun, sea and seafood is a delight for every kind of traveler. A blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, Goa is the place to spend a laid-back holiday in a villa that has an old-world charm. Only a few minutes away from Panjim, on the Vainguinim beach lies a Portuguese hamlet by the name Cidade De Goa. Cidade De Goa is where travelers can spend their lazy evenings and peaceful nights in Goa.

Cidade De Goa – A Glimpse into the Portuguese Past of Goa

Accommodations in Panjim are easy to come by. However, very few give an experience worth remembering. Cidade De Goa, a 5 star hotel in Panjim, is the place to be to soak in the old world charm of Goa. A quick look of the hotel is inviting enough to spend some luxurious time in the manicured gardens, chequered floors and rooms with the view of the sea.

Here is how one can rewind back in time at Cidade De Goa.

Portuguese Architecture

Cidade De Goa is designed by the world-renowned architect Charles Correa who was famous for his creation of modern architectures in post-independent India. Cidade De Goa welcomes travelers and their families in Correa’s intimate alcoves, historic murals, balcaos and tiled roofs.

Rooms and Suites with Picturesque Views

Cidade De Goa has some of the most thoughtfully designed rooms in Panjim. These rooms and suites have been designed keeping in mind the heritage, space and grace of its historic days. They have enviable views of the sea, Mediterranean architecture, balconies that bring in natural light, private sit-outs and much more. All the rooms open to a different view of the sea and each window is suitable for ruminating.

Quality Family Time on the Beach

The secluded Vainguinim beach, away from the hustle of the crowd is the perfect place to strengthen bonds and make more memories. The beach has a range of water sports and games for adults and children.

Relax and Unwind

At Cidade De Goa, those seeking a little bit of calm and peace in life can make use of the friendly services such as the Aromatherapy massages, meditation, Yoga, Tattva Spa, etc. The Tattva Spa is a Cidade De Goa specialty. It has therapies based on the five universal elements of Prithvi, Vayu, Jal, Agni and Aakash. Refreshing spas baths also add on to the Zen experience at Cidade De Goa.

Revel in the Authentic Fado Evenings and Lip Smacking Food

Of all the restaurants in Panjim, Cidade De Goa’s Alfama restaurant offers a traditional Portuguese experience with their Fado evenings every Tuesday. A Fado is a Portuguese song that evokes many human emotions such as love, sorrow, jealousy, satire, etc. Cafe Azul has dining options with a view of the pool. The restaurant serves cuisines from North India, East Asia and Italy. Barbeque, a rustic themed, seasonal open-air restaurant offers grilled delights with a sea-facing view.

Away from the cacophony of the crowded beaches in Goa, Cidade De Goa is an ideal getaway for families and has something for every type of traveler. When on the lookout for accommodation in Panjim, stay at this 5-star hotel and live the Portuguese experience for real.

The Oasis – The Experiential Festival is in Delhi this Winter!

Cscope Staff

November 18, 2019

THE-OASIS--By-Vajor

The inviting lush green gardens at 1 AQ Mehrauli New Delhi is going to play host to ‘The Oasis’ festival. A one of its kind two day event, the festival organized by Vajor is an ‘exotic amalgamation of art, music, mindful fashion, home décor, collaborations, cultures and cuisines.’

Being held on the 7th and 8th December 2019, the festival aims to bring together the bohemian and eco-conscious community on the same platform to interact, learn and support each other.

What is the festival about?

“The Oasis Fest is a mindfully curated, lively experience for an eco-conscious tribe. The 2-day experience beacons people to gather around and indulge in a multitude of immersive conversations, shopping, workshops, music and more. “

What to expect?

The Main Attraction

Let the artist in you find wings with artistry workshops lined up for both days. The macramé workshop called ‘Knotty Affair’, upcycling workshop using fabric pieces; ‘A CLAYFUL DATE’ in a pottery workshop and a workshop on mindful eating are some you can try your hand at.
Stimulate your mind with interesting and informative panel discussions that touch topics centered on art and the creative life.
Get enthralled in the land of stories as travelers and writers share tales of the known and unknown.
Shop your heart out! A flea market of mindful brands that cater to the exquisite taste and eco-consciousness of the buyer will provide a range of shopping delights ranging from fashion garments, accessories, home décor and more.
Music and poetry go hand in hand. At The Oasis be prepared to groove to the soulful tunes on one hand and be intellectually awakened with the slam poetry on climate change.

The two day schedule is well spaced and for a detailed know-how check https://experiences.vajor.com/

“Finally, it is a chance to meet, interact and indulge with the best of mindful affairs and dive deeper into a pool of opportunities, learning not just how to become part of the Vajor tribe but to be able to earn and reap benefits with this vibrant fest where there is something for everyone!”

So don’t wait any longer. Book your tickets for the festival and spend two fruitful days soaking in an experience of wonderful artistic and creative energies.

Soul-stirring Music in Baul Culture of Bengal

Reshmi Rose Tom

November 14, 2019

“Tomay hrid majhare rakhibo chhere debo na”

Baul culture of Bengal — Parvathy Baul – Mário Pires / Flickr

Bengalis are known for they talent in both visual and performing arts, folk arts of West Bengal are so rich that audience get mesmerised at a glance. Baul or Bauls are a group of mystic minstrels who constitute a religious sect and a musical tradition. They compromise of a small fraction of the Bengali population and can be easily identified by their distinctive saffron clothes and musical instruments. Their contribution to the musical field of Bengal culture is immense and hence immeasurable. They are fondly known as “Moner Manush” (the person of the heart) which denotes these inspired people who have an eagerness for the spiritual life and wish to realize their union with the eternal beloved.

Baul music is known for its celebration of celestial love in earthly terms. Their religion is based on the expression of body and mind and concentrate much of their mystic energy on the four body fluids. The music of the Bauls or Baul Sangeet is a type of folk song but in recent times this rich culture seems to be fading. This UNESCO – World Heritage listed musical style has been reduced to a mere commodity in the present times. Once considered to be rich in culture, today it is performed behind closed doors in air-conditioned auditoriums for a fee. The artists earn very little from these programs as for them it is the sharing of their proud heritage but for the production managers these tickets sell as hot cakes, for many are intrigued by baul sangeet and the singers who live a rustic life.

The baul music is incomplete in the absence of the ektara, a single stringed musical instrument used in creating the otherworldly charm of Baul sangeet. The instrument is made of dried gourd acting as a resonator; and has a metal string running through its neck. Plucking the string with the index finger generates a unique melody which is associated exclusively with the baul songs. Though the ektara is the main attraction, Baul songs would be incomplete without the accompaniment of percussion instruments such as the dhol cymbals, flute and the ghungroo.

Recently at the Bannerghatta campus of Christ University I had the privilege of watching famous Baul singer Haradhan Das Baul perform various songs written by his father and himself over the course of time. He tried to explain the tradition of Baul singers but almost no one was interested in the same and only wished to hear him sing. This shows the change seen in the audience culture during the present times…appreciation of culture and tradition is gone and all people want are entertainment. Owing to the kind patronage of the government of West Bengal, Baul music has been attempting to regain its lost sheen and attempts to gain a wider audience by improvising songs that may suit the tastes of many.

Till date Baul songs are widely celebrated in the state of West Bengal and in Bangladesh through the manifestation of the same in the songs of Rabindranath Tagore and hence Shantiniketan, the town founded by him, continues to be home for many of the wandering baul singers and hence the hub of baul culture in Bengal.

The Bauls worship music and are not associated with any mainstream religion. Their music is the culmination point of a huge range of cultures from around the world. It includes the tantric practices of the Hindus, the Sufi saints of Persia and certain elements of Buddhism has also been incorporated into their songs that leading to development in the roles of the individual sectors. The lyrics of the Baul songs are written in Bengali.

The lifestyle of the modern-day urban bauls is not one of simplicity as some of the practitioners hold celebrity statuses and are conducting foreign tours just like any other musician in the industry. Alternatively, there still exist some who have stayed true to their calling and continue to wander the streets of Bengal in their saffron robes with an ektara in hand.

The Baul culture is one to be upheld and preserved and passed on from generation to generation for it is rich in the heritage of Bengal and sings of oneness with nature and in these dire times of global warming and melting glaciers we human beings need reminders on preserving our universe.

The best place to witness this soul-stirring music is at local village fairs and at the annual Poush Mela held at Shantiniketan. They do not charge money for their performance but it is only thoughtful on our behalf to leave some money on their mats as a kind gesture for they too have a livelihood to earn just like any one of us. It is also considered to be a mark of respect and tribute to the grand culture of Baul music.

If at all you get a chance to ever witness the Baul singers make sure you utilise the opportunity for they truly are a treat to one’s heart and mind.

Selfies Lovers – You May Not Own ‘Your’ Photos!

Caleidoscope

November 13, 2019

Author: Sagar Godbole

We perched precariously on a ledge, trying to pose in front of the city palace in Udaipur. The Danish tourist, whom we had requested to take our customary touristy snap, fumbled around with my Micromax phone, trying to figure out how to take a picture. When he finally managed to get one, it was that of my friend in midair as he tumbled off the ledge.

As my phone continuously buzzed with people ‘liking’ and re-tweeting this picture, I realised how I could have made some money had the image been of a comet shooting across the sky, instead of my clumsy friend falling.

Unfortunately, many photos on your camera are not actually yours because of the legal framework in India. The Indian Copyright Act of 1957, under section 2(d)(iv), states that the person taking the photograph will be the ‘author’ of the picture. Then it goes on to state in section 17 that the author of a work shall be the first owner of the copyright therein. The effect of these provisions is that under the Indian law, copyright belongs to the person, who clicks the picture rather than the one who owns the camera.

The only exception to this rule is in cases where the photographer clicks a picture as an employee or in return for money as consideration. Therefore, the photos taken by a magazine photographer are owned by the magazine, while you own the images clicked by the photographer you hire to cover your wedding.

On the other hand, of all the hundreds of images stored on your camera from your last trip, you only own the copyright to those which you have clicked yourself. In case of images that are taken by someone else, you must seek their permission before using the photos. Fortunately, India is not a very litigious country, so you can breathe easy. It is highly unlikely that you would be sued for copyright violation by a random passerby, who clicked a picture for you.

selfie stick — Source: Koshy Koshy via Flickr

To be on the safer side, though, it would be wise to seek permission or to acknowledge the photographer if you know who that person is, especially if you intend to use the photo commercially. For all basic intents and purposes, permission sought and given via a simple email suffices, so there is no need to jump through the hoops of complicated legal documentation.

But if you want to avoid such issues entirely, there is an easy and increasingly popular way to do so. Click only selfies during your vacations! To help you click group photos, you can even get a selfie stick.

The latest narcissistic sensation sweeping the world may have some legal benefits after all!

Experience the Architectural Splendor of Pratap Mahal in Ajmer

Caleidoscope

November 8, 2019

The Pratap Mahal Ajmer is one of the top five star hotels in Ajmer that offers a rejuvenating getaway from the urban chaos. Perched against the backdrop of the glorious Aravalli hills, the luxury abode is drenched in cultural and historical hues that transports you to a bygone era of royalty while offering stunning views of the sacred and picturesque green oasis.

Sprawling over 8 acres, the architectural marvel stands out with its exquisite façade and aesthetic interiors. Echoing the flavours of Rajasthan, the Pratap Mahal Ajmer offers quintessential Rajput hospitality with folk dancers, finest craft artisans and illustrious Bani Thani paintings that adorn the premises. Its numerous rooms too are bathed in vintage beauty and glory while being equipped with indulgent, modern amenities that effortlessly blend the old and the contemporary. They also offer spectacular views of the Aravalli hills and the courtyard to the urban traveller while being seated on the indoor swing, sit-out balcony or private terrace.

Savour mouth-watering delicacies, while being cradled in the authentic Rajasthani ambience in the multi-cuisine restaurant Aravali, which is open round the clock to cater to your taste buds. Created from fresh local produce, the restaurant blends health and local delicacies and offers gastronomical delights in the form of both active foods and regional home-style dishes.

The alluring set up of the elegant abode serves a promising location for dreamy weddings and corporate retreats. The pillar-less Darbar Hall poses the perfect indoor location for large-scale conferences as well as family get-togethers and wedding functions. The picturesque Mughal Lawn and the pool deck too double as celebration areas for your special moments.

Unwind in the best resort in Ajmer by indulging in indoor games at the recreational centre, or focus on your health at the fitness centre and swimming pool. You can also make the most of the adventurous Thar Desert by opting for a camel safari. De-stress and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul by immersing in yoga and spa therapies. For kids, the Pratap Mahal Ajmer- IHCL SeleQtions hotel has a unique program called the Taj Kids, which keeps your kids engaged by indulging them in an active learning program that keeps them entertained. The Pratap Mahal Ajmer also presents one of the unique experiences in the form of the Wilderness Experience Dinner that is laid out in the foothills of the spectacular Aravalli Mountains away from the humdrum of city life, in the lap of the rough and unadulterated countryside. The evening is marked by life performances by Kalbeliya dancers and folk music, which can be enjoyed over a special menu of lost recipes curated by the chef along with your favourite cocktails.

Things to do in Ajmer

While you are staying at the Pratap Mahal Ajmer, there are a number of things to do and places to visit in Ajmer–

Visit the Pushkar Lake and witness the Pushkar Ghat Aarti which is noted for religious and historical significance
Plan your travel along the time of the world-famous Pushkar fair and experience the spiritual ambience resonated by thousands of devotees who visit the holy destination to take a dip in the sacred waters
Evidence the glory of the picturesque Kishangarh Fort, one of the most notable tourist places in Ajmer, perched along the lakeside.
Stop by the numerous sacred temples such as the Atmeshwar Temple, Old Rangji Temple, Mahadeva Temple, Raghunath Temple, Apteshwar Temple, and Varah Temple, and pay reverence to the Gods
Visit the Ajmer Dargah, the tomb of Muin-ud-din-Chishti, a noted Sufi saint whose shrine has historical significance
Shop for stunning ornaments, embellished textiles, and exquisite souvenirs by local craftsmen at the Sarafa Bazaar

Experience tranquillity enveloped in luxury in this alluring resort in Ajmer that lies nestled in a spectacular green oasis, enveloped in the glory of the magnificent Aravalli Hills, right in the heart of the mesmerising, royal state of Rajasthan.

Image Courtesy – Seleqtionshotels.com

Plan your Next Couple’s Trip to The Savoy in Mussoorie

Vidhi Bubna

November 8, 2019

The Savoy-in-Mussoorie — The Savoy Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a mountain destination which is nestled amidst pine trees, beautiful sunrises and snow capped peaks. It is the place where many couples went together to and fell in love. It is also the place where lost lovers met each other and rekindled their old spirits and found new energy. Mussoorie, has so many unexplored paths and offbeat local shops which are places where you can not only explore yourself, but also places where you can explore the person you love and may have lost touch with over time.

In relationships, you may continue loving the person, but you may end up losing the human touch which brings you emotionally close together. This makes travelling together very important because couples need to take time off their busy lives and invest time in each other as well. This makes both partners feel valued and kills the monotony which exists in the relationship.

Amidst snow capped peaks in Mussoorie, there is a hotel named “Savoy”. It looks like a grand palace from the outside and has a heritage element attached to it. The hotel has been there for almost 150 years. There are vast open gardens and lawns in the hotel where couples can relax and spend time with each other. Most of the rooms with a balcony opens up to a vast, open and unobstructed view of the Himalayas. This hotel forms a perfect setting for a getaway with your loved one.

The interiors of the hotel are quaint and english style. The area near the rooms has beautiful fountains with sculptures. The stairway to the dining room is made of marble and it opens to a huge room of woodwork. The Savoy has had many popular personalities drinking in their bar. Ruskin Bond and Jim Corbett are two of the more popular personalities who have been here in the past. For buffet, the hotel has a wide spread for all the meals and also has some fantastic a-la-carte. It is a great feeling to just sit by the window and enjoy the scrumptious meals while overlooking the himalayas. From the window, the Himalayas look so close that you can just put your arm out and touch the snow and at the same time they are far enough to feel safe.

In the evening, The Savoy has a charming guard change just like those in the Brisitsh era and it has a bonfire to keep yourself warm. As the sun descends, you can enjoy some tea and music by the bonfire. Mall road is at a walking distance from this hotel and you can walk around the quaint cafes and shops of mall road with your partner. Meeting Ruskin Bond and buying a book signed by him is one of the biggest highlights for lovers in Mussoorie. It’s a picture perfect trip, cut off from the world, where you can view the city lights of Dehradun from the mountains of Mussoorie. You can understand the mysteries which your partner has to offer to you and enjoy the silence of their company while you walk around the mountain. You can also explore some quaint places on the mountain side and simply take a midnight stroll.

It is very easy to find warmth on the mountain in someone you love, no matter how cold it gets outside. Mountains always have a strange way of making people come closer together. There is a certain beauty in the sunrise of the mountain which is able to bring in freshness and new beginnings. There is a wonderful scent in every flower which blooms on the streets lovers walk on in Mussoorie. You can find your lover again and explore them again on these mountains. You never know what the mountain has planned for you and you never know what secrets it holds.

Photo Courtesy – WelcomHotel The Savoy Mussoorie – Member ITC’s Hotel Group

Splendid Buddhist Monasteries of Leh You Must Visit

Swati Mor

November 7, 2019

Ladakh, the place is located at a height of 9,800 feet and is surrounded beautifully by the Himalayan mountain ranges is famously known as “THE LAND OF HIGH PASSES”. The Ladakh region comprises of some of the highest mountain passes in the world. Ladakh is the only cold desert of India and is surrounded by jagged mountain passes, plateaus and barren cliffs. Due to this, it offers various adventurous opportunities in water rafting, trekking and mountaineering. The Tibetan culture of the east is conglomerated with the Buddhist religion which adds an eccentric outlook to the region of Ladakh. Reflecting the rich Tibetan culture, the monasteries in Ladakh represent the true scintillating vibes of the Buddhist religion. Mostly located at the apex of the mountains, these monasteries offer an endearing picturesque view which showcases the peace and harmony of nature. Each monastery celebrates its own festival which reflects the unique culture prevalent in each of them. Ladakh has too much to offer…..particularly to the tourists…. right from the beautiful landscape to the refreshing rivers. Let’s take a look at some of the amazing and enriching monasteries of Ladakh.

1. Diskit Monastery

Buddhist-Monasteries-of-Leh-DISKIT MONASTERY — Image – Saurabh Chatterjee via Flickr

Diskit Monastery is located in Nubra Valley, which is a beautiful place surrounded by the Shylok river. The beauty of the valley can be viewed from atop the monastery. The Diskit Monastery consists of a 106 foot tall Maitreya Buddha at its entrance which is a representation of pure dharma and complete enlightenment of the Buddhist religion. It was founded by Changzem Tsera Zangpo in the 14th century and it belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

2. Hemis Monastery

Buddhist-Monasteries-of-Leh-Hemis-Monastery — *Image –* Saurabh Chatterjee via Flickr

The Hemis Monastery constitutes a famous museum which showcases a collection of various ancient artifacts, Buddhist relics and statues. Artistic paintings and pictures cover the walls of the verandahs beautifully. It is home to the statue of Guru Rimpoche who is believed to be the founder of the Hemis Monastery. Besides this, there are two Buddha statues which overall compliment the architectural features of the monastery.

3. Thiksey Monastery

Buddhist-Monasteries-of-Leh-Thiksey-Monastery — Image – Prabhu B Doss via Flickr

Situated at an altitude of 11800 feet, the monastery is cared for by the people of the Yellow Hat Sect. The 49-feet tall statue of Maitreya Buddha is a famous attraction of the Thiksey Monastery. It is a twelve-storied monument which consists of ten beautiful temples. Thiksey Gustor festival is celebrated annually every tenth month according to the Tibetan calendar. There is a separate temple singularly dedicated to Goddess Tara. The prayer hall of the monastery consists of a 40-foot tall Lord Buddha statue seated on a lotus which represents cosmic renewal. The famous temples of Thiksey monastery are Lamokhang Temple and Tara Temple.

4. Alchi Monastery

Buddhist-Monasteries-of-Leh-Alchi-Monastery — Image – Wikimedia

The ancient 11th and 12th century Indo-Himalayan styled wall paintings are the main attraction of the Alchi Monastery. Situated at an altitude of 10200 feet, this monastery was constructed between 958 and 1055 AD by Guru Rinchen Zangpo. The Gompa consists of images of Buddha statues made in clay and the walls are magnificently decorated with bright colours. It also has a dining hall known as “DUKHANG” which is exquisitely decorated in kashmiri architecture. Mahakal and the wheel of life are famous locations present inside the Dukhang. The monastery also consists of a three-story temple named SUMTSEG which is situated in the centre of it. The life of Lord Buddha along with images of his family and followers is beautifully defined in the form of paintings at Sumtseg.

5. Shey Monastery

Buddhist-Monasteries-of-Leh-Shey-Monastery — *Image –* Saurabh Chatterjee via Flickr

Shey Monastery is located in the Shey city of Ladakh which is also the summer capital of the city. The monastery is divided into sections comprising of two floors. The ground floor is surrounded with amazing mural paintings while the first floor has various Buddha murals depicted holding different hand gestures and forms. The upper floor, on the other hand has a large library which houses the ancient manuscripts. The assembly hall has the Shakyamuni Buddha statue , while the walls of the hall are designed by the mesmerizing paintings of different sages. A small shrine is present near the Shey Monastery which has a Buddha statue. Butter lamps are used to enlighten the upper floor of the monastery which generally remains dark from the inside.

6. Spituk Monastery

Buddhist-Monasteries-of-Leh-Spituk-Monastery — Image – Koshy Koshy via Flickr

Also known as “Pethup Gompa”; the Spituk Monastery is a blend of both Buddhism and the Hindu culture. It has a large statue of goddess Kali. Spituk Monastery belongs to the era of the 15th century and the assembly hall comprises the largest portion of the monastery. The antique arms, thangka, miniature chortens, ancient masks and sculptures are displayed in the assembly hall. The courtyard of the monastery is painted with beautiful tibetan paintings, while the meditation hall remains open for those willing to perform prayers and meditation.

7. Likir Monastery

The sceneric view of the monastery is visible right from the foothill of the ranges. The Likir Monastery consists of two assembly halls wherein the new hall is about 200 years old. The courtyard consists of a large Juniper tree, while the collection room shows tibetan styled-ancient pots, thangka collections and manuscripts written in the Pali language. The paintings and a wheel of life is present in the verandah of the courtyard. The glass room present exactly opposite to the Gonkhang house remains open for the celebration of the dance festival held there.

8. Lamayuru Monastery

Also famously known as YURU MONASTERY, it is located near Lamayuru village and is known for its mask dance festival which takes place annually. The Lamayuru Monastery consists of prayer wheels, wall paintings and artifacts which shows the ancient culture of Buddhism and how it has evolved over the passage of time. A small portion of the ancient building still stands today while the remaining portion shows the ruined corners of the monastery. It consists of a beautiful prayer hall which remains open for the tourists to enjoy the rich culture of the monastery.

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