BY Sarmind SafiFeb 28, 2022

Nowadays, coffee has become one of the prominent necessities for people of India and abroad. If you are an Indian and love drinking coffee, this article can be a fun read. Here you can learn about the five best coffee shops in the country. Consider trying out a few of them in 2022. Nevertheless, for now, you can go through the history of coffee in India. Well, if you are a coffee lover, these facts would inspire you more to visit the top cafes and taste a cup. Have a read: Coffee In India: A Classic History The introduction of coffee in India dates back to the late seventeenth century. According to the lore, Baba Budan, a Mecca pilgrim from India, bought seven coffee beans from Yemen. However, it was a smuggle as taking coffee beans out of Yemen was forbidden. This Indian Sufi planted the seeds somewhere in the hills of Chikmagalur in Karnataka during the 1670s. So, that is how coffee farming started and developed in India. Even today, the best coffee found in the country is from the plateau hills of the Deccan. Top Five Coffee Shops Of India In this part of the article, you can go through the facts of the top five coffee shops in India. However, do not expect to have instant coffee in any of these. All these cafes serve coffee from the best-processed beans. Even real coffee takes much time to get ready. So, do not consider any of these cafes similar to the “local coffee shops near me” and have patience while placing the order. Remember that the top cafes do not serve instant coffee. Instead, they consider it as a part of the culture. Have a look: 1. Mocha Art Cafe Location: Kochi, Kerela Things to Try: French Press, Chocolaty Mochas The Mocha Art Cafe can top your search results as you look for coffee shops near me, from Kochi. It has a diverse menu and carries a little bit of that history, too. Amazingly, Baba Budan smuggled some coffee from the Mocha city of Yemen. So, many coffee shops have ‘Mocha’ common in their names. The best things to try at the Mocha Art Cafe in Kochi are French Press, Chocolaty Mochas, and Classic Espresso. Expect to get unique coffee recipes in Mocha Art Cafe under the types above. This cafe uses the classic brewing technique, and you can enjoy the marvelous smell of roasted coffee beans everywhere. So, next time you are in Kochi, do not forget to spend some time at the Mocha Art Cafe. Lastly, about the location, Mocha Art Cafe is located in a Jewish Quarter that can give you an old and classic feel. Tripadvisor Review: "Came here for lunch. Situated upstairs just along from the synagogue, in a bright covered courtyard. It was empty the day we were there but got busier. The area was quite hot (being enclosed) but the fans helped to create some air movement/cooling. It was good to have some “Western” food for a change - the pineapple pancake and the toasted cheese and tomato sandwich were both very good as were the lassis. Good place for lunch." -SDSydney693 2. G-Shot Coffee Roastery And Cafe Location: Assagao, Goa Things to Try: Vietnamese Coffee, Espressos If you are a dedicated coffee lover and visit Goa, do not forget to sip a cup at the G-Shot Coffee Roastery and Cafe. Expect to find the cafe easily as it has proximity to the Vagator and Anjuna. All you have to do is search for the coffee shops nearby from the aforesaid beaches. The best part about the G-Shot Coffee Roastery and Cafe is its menu. It is pretty outstanding that the makers here use only single-origin beans. Moreover, the menu contains coffee types like cold brews. Espressos and Vietnamese Coffee. Yet another best thing about the G-Shot Coffee Roastery and Cafe is that it provides the customers with a chance to rejuvenate listening to music and meditating. Really, this is unique among all coffee shops. Tripadvisor Review: "G Shot, you have my heart. The coffee served over there is excellent. The owners source their coffee directly from farmers all over India ensuring that they get excellent coffee beans and that the farmers get to enjoy the benefits too. We had their Mocha, Iced Latte and Macchiato. The mocha has a nice nutty flavor without being overtly sweet. We also bought a packet of their home-made granola which was again excellent. Will definitely recommend!" - Krittika M 3. Third Wave Coffee Roasters Location: Bangalore, Karnataka Things to Try: Latte, Espresso The Third Wave Coffee Roasters is another top-notch cafe based in Bangalore. This is one of the best places to try coffee in India due to many reasons. Apart from its diversified menu, the Third Wave Coffee Roasters ensures that the beans are from individual farms. Moreover, you can get light-roasted coffee that brings out the best flavors. The Third Wave Coffee is a movement that aims to enhance the love for coffee among drinkers. Some roasters have turned the movement into a cafe, and you get coffee heaven when in Bangalore. Tripadvisor Review: "I have visited Third Wave Coffee at Margosa Road, MalleshwaramI have visted during day time morning 9:00 am to 12:00 non range.Both the times the crowd was less and i enjoyed the feel of less crowd.Its 25 seater capacity and ambiance is very good.It has small parking space for 2 wheeler and car.Staff was warm and cordial.Menu for Tea and coffee is sufficient for chit chat and gossip.Rest Room is there. Covid rules were followed.Wheel chair access is possible with the help of support as its in ground floor.Can chill out with Family and friends." - GangaShankar74 4. United Coffee House Location: Connaught Place, Delhi Things to Try: Instant Coffee, Latte, Espresso The fourth entry in the list of best coffee shops in India is the United Coffee House. It is located in Connaught Place and is a buzz among the coffee enthusiasts of Delhi. It is a 75-year-old organization and can still hold its craze after generations. The most unique thing about United Coffee House is its blend. It comes from the best beans from Colombia and India. Moreover, the experienced brewers in the UCH execute their work to give you the perfect taste. Tripadvisor Review: "For an exceptional dining venture, United Coffee House Rewind is the top recommendation. It’s the epitome of a place to share moments with friends and family. The vibes are incredibly positive, enhancing the overall mood. The staff’s attentiveness and warmth create a welcoming environment. And the food, coupled with their refreshing drinks, forms a delectable combination that’s hard to match." - Vidur S 5. Brahmin’s Coffee Bar Location: Bangalore, Karnataka Things to Try: Instant Black Coffee and Instant Milk Coffee The history of Brahmin’s Coffee Bar in Bangalore is no less than a fairy tale. As most Bangaloreans are coffee fanatics, this has always been their favorite coffee joint since the 1960s. This is the place where you can get the best quality instant coffee and some Espresso recipes. Moreover, the Brahmin’s Coffee Bar is also known for the baked cookies that they serve with the coffee. So, when you visit the ‘Garden City of India’ next time, do not forget to visit this place for a hot cup of coffee. Tripadvisor Review: "We come back to this place every time we visit Bengaluru finding time for it. Normally it is breakfast or afternoon snacks. There was even a time we used to take parcel home to eaten same day.They serve excellent mouth melting idlis and topped with their vadas. They continue to my favourites and a dish of 3 idlis and 2 vadas really made my day topped with strong coffee.Same traditional outlet. You stand and eat or sip coffee. No parking available so tend to be too far to park." - NayantSavani Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. What Are The Most Popular Coffee Shops? As people mostly search for new coffee shops for me, they know about the shops like Starbucks, Cafe Du Monde, and Cafe Coffee Day.  Q2. What Is Hot In Kolkata Cafe? Some of the prominent coffee shops in Kolkata are- the Kookie Jar Cafe, Blue Mug, Calcutta 64, etc. Q3.  What Is In A Coffee Shop? In the leading coffee shops, you get a lot of coffee recipes like Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte. You can also find ice-coffee, cold drinks, and baked products in a coffee shop.  Q4. What Is The Difference Between A Cafe And A Coffee Shop? Although both the terms have now turned unanimous, cafes and coffee shops have a slight difference. In cafes, you can get food and beverages, but coffee shops are more into serving only tea and coffee in India.  Final Take Away The coffee culture in India is quite old, and you can get one or the other cafe/coffee shop in every city. While most people in the country believe that the coffee came with Europeans, it was bought by a Sufi. If you love drinking coffee, try to consume the instant ones less. Instead, you can order the roasted beans. Well, these cafes can be the right places for you to visit if you desire to have excellent coffee. Read Also: The Speciality Of Barnaby’s Cafe – Reviews, Special Menu, And Price 90 Miles Cuban Cafe – Reviews, Special Menu, And Price Nordstrom Cafe – Reviews, Special Menu, And Price

BY Krishnendu SheetMay 7, 2017

Visiting India is akin to taking a dive into the unknown. Most travelers to India will tell you that the chaos and unceasing hullabaloo is an intrinsic part of it. Others, however, seem to successfully capture the “mystical and harmonious” spirit that apparently, is to be found everywhere in India.  Not only the land of snake charmers but more ethnic wonders, India travel should be on the top of your list for various reasons. However, regardless of what India is, or is not, there are certain tips which must be followed by every visitor to India. This ensures the best of everything while allowing one to discover all that India has to offer. Here are the five tips for first-time travelers to India. Five Tips For First Time Traveler To India: 1. Choosing The Best Route: Among the many tips for first-time visitors to India, this is one of the most important. Plan your India trip according to your interests, priorities, and fascinations. If exploring the fabulous monuments is what you desire, visit the cities of Agra, Delhi and Jaipur. From Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri to Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb, you’ll find it all here for India travel. If spiritual discovery is what you’re after, then visit the innumerable temples in North and South India, the beautiful mosques, monasteries, and churches scattered all over India. India also offers abundant opportunities for engaging in adventure sports and natured oriented pursuits like trekking, skiing, rafting, etc. To get a glimpse of the exotic flora and fauna of India, visit the several nature parks or wildlife sanctuaries, which house an exotic variety of flora and fauna. 2. Go Slow – Patience Is The Key! Too many visitors to India make the mistake of trying to discover and explore everything in one go. The geographical enormity of India renders such a task not just impossible but rather foolish. Once you are in India, slow down and absorb the surroundings around you, while appreciating the uniqueness brought by every experience. Rather than stressing yourself over completing the things-to-do list, focus on doing one thing or visiting one place and exploring it in detail. Not only will this make your trip pleasant, but also give you a glimpse of the local culture and customs. If you want to understand India, this is the way to go about it. If you are complaining about the traffic in your country, then it is nothing less than the traffic in India which makes India travel no less than a hectic journey. So, always keep the assistance of Google Maps, so that you can easily find out short cuts and lanes for a quick escape. Also, drivers tend to ask for more money if they see that you are a tourist. It is better if you do thorough research on the cab rates and bus rates to save some money. 3. Look For Solitude Amid Unceasing Chaos! Any useful guide for first-time visitors to India will tell you that despite being a land inhabited by billions, India still offers plentiful avenues for escaping the maddening crowd and ensuing chaos. This is not to say that you should avoid soaking in the cultural and social atmosphere. However, there will come a point where you would seek moments of tranquility and solitude. Fortunately, India has plenty of hill stations, quiet retreats, isolated beaches, serene backwaters, etc. It’s always a good idea to head to these places when the crowds and the hassle seem overbearing. Doing this will help you relax and rejuvenate before continuing with the rest of your journey. If you are a nature lover, then it is best to start from the north. There are mainly five travel holidays destinations you should be starting on. Now the call is completely yours: Leh-LadakhShimla-ManaliDehradun-MussoorieNainital-RanikhetJammu-Kashmir 4. Prioritize Your Health: Any ultimate guide for the first timer to India will mention the words “health, well-being, safety, etc.” In India, you can never be too cautious regarding your health. Never make the mistake of drinking tap water or consuming food which has been lying around for a long time. Indian food is very spicy. So, be careful in the matter of food choices. Do not drink water from random shops. Instead, keep a bottle of mineral water with you all the time. While street-side snacks are utterly tempting, it’s always advised to assess the cleanliness around you before gorging on them. One of the best ways of determining whether the food is safe is to watch whether it’s being consumed by locals. If yes, then go ahead! Also, do not miss the famous food places to visit in India. You will see that diversity is not only in cultures but in food too. However, each food item is different in taste and in health. Another way of ensuring your health is always carrying an anti-bacterial gel or anti-bacterial wipes. This is because most Indians eat with their fingers, and if you want to emulate them, these are the best tools for the last minute clean-up. 5. Be Calm At All Times: One of the most useful things to know for the first timers to India is maintaining your cool at all times. Certain parts of India, and especially the North, may seem brash, undisciplined and rude, with all sorts of touts out to get your money for more travel holidays. However, it’s important to be extremely alert while politely refusing any unwanted advances or moves made upon you. One of the easiest ways of avoiding being conned is refusing any deal that sounds too good to be true. Conclusion: At the same time, when the situation demands, learn to be assertive without sounding angry. This is the best way of displaying your confidence without appearing to be weak. There are numerous places to visit in India, and you cannot finish it in one month. Therefore, if you are at all planning for an India tour, make sure that your getaway last for more than a month, maybe two. The vast country awaits to mesmerize you with its meandering rivers and lofty mountains and timeless monuments and spiritual hubs of different religions. Read also: Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India5 Must-Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi.Experience Udaipur through Deccan Odyssey.

BY Nabamita SinhaJul 23, 2022

Welcome to the “Queen Of The Hills!” Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Hidden beneath the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is an “abode of god.” Situated among the serenity of nature, it is a must places to visit in Darjeeling for some intoxicating time in nature’s lap. Travel Guide About Darjeeling NicknameThe Queen of the HillsDarjeeling Whole  Area3149 sq.kmLanguage SpokenNepali, Hindi, and BengaliPopular Places to VisitBatasia Loop, Tinchuley, Darjeeling Rock Garden,  Lepchajagat, Darjeeling Ropeway, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Tiger Hill, etc. Best Time to VisitApril-June to experience summer, October-January to experience winter. Popular Places to visit for couplesMirik, Love Road, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Mall, Observatory Hill, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tea Gardens, Mahakal Temple, and Glenburn Estate. Top Religious Places Ghoom Monastery, St.Andrew’s Church,  Dali Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Aloobari Monastery, etc.Top Things To DoTrekking, Shopping, River Rafting, Toy Tain Ride, Visit the Tea Garden, Camping, Explore the wildlife and flora, Mountaineering, etc. Darjeeling: Why Even Go There? Darjeeling is one of the biggest tourist destinations in India. Its natural beauty, perfect climate, and captivating mountain view are a few of the reasons to visit here. Darjeeling is a part of West Bengal and is located at a height of 2134 meters. It is a proud possession of West Bengal Tourism. The exotic flora, fauna, and chilly weather are a few reasons why it is named the “Queen of the Hills.” It is a perfect abode for trekkers and mountaineers. The view of the Kanchenjunga is spectacular from here. This spectacular view is what attracts a lot of tourists year-round in Darjeeling. However, Darjeeling has a lot more to offer tourists. From Darjeeling, you have access to most other hill stations such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and many more. There are great places to visit in Gangtok, and Darjeeling is your starting point for that. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. 1. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute And Darjeeling Zoo The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling is one of the best in the country. It exhibits the mountaineering gears from the early days along with certain artifacts. The Institute was built here in honor of Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa who accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary to climb Mt. Everest. They were the first to climb the tallest mountain in the world for the 1st time in 1953. All the mountaineering gear that the men used is also here in the Institute itself. There are souvenirs and a restaurant here on the premises for the tourists. Located beside the Institute on the same premises is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Here you can experience the best wildlife Darjeeling has to offer. Here you will find a number of exotic animals such as the Siberian Tiger, snow leopard, goral, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan black bear, and red panda. Timings: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm in Summer & 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in Winter. 2. Darjeeling Ropeway Opened in 1968, known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car; from here, you can have the best view of Darjeeling. This was the first cable car system ever built in India. From the beautiful Tea Gardens to the majestic peak of the Kanchenjunga and the dense forest beneath it. You will be able to experience everything Darjeeling has to offer at once. Timings: 10:00am to 4:00pm (Winter and Monsoon), 10:00am to 2:00pm (Summer and Autumn). 3. Happy Valley Tea Estate Enjoy the lush greenery and the sweet taste of Darjeeling Tea. This is a 150 years old Tea Estate, one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Although this is only the second oldest tea estate in Darjeeling, built in 1854, situated 2100 meters above sea level. Timings: Tuesday to Saturday- 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. 4. Senchal Lake And Wildlife Sanctuary This is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India, set up in the year 1915. Situated about 11 kms away from Darjeeling town, it is a must-visit place in Darjeeling. Senchal Lake, which is situated within the wildlife, has the most beautiful picturesque view. For nature lovers and photographers, this is an ideal place. Here you will find a number of wildlife such as leopards, rhesus monkeys, and Himalayan black bears. Along with that, here, you will see a wide variety of exotic birds. 5. Shrubbery Nightingale Park If you are someone who loves flowers and exotic flora, then you must visit Shrubbery Nightingale Park. Here you will find beautiful flowers along with a majestic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain.  The park was totally destroyed during a massive earthquake in 1934; it was rebuilt to its former glory. It has pebblestone pathways, a musical fountain and benches to sit on. This park is among the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Blooming Seasons: October and November. 6. Dhirdham Temple Another gorgeous tourist attraction is the Dhirdham Temple; it is a Hindu temple in Nepalese style. This is located just below the Toy Train station. This temple was built by the King of Nepal, Purna Bahadur Pradhan, in the year 1936. The temple has the idol of Lord Shiva. The idol is of white color, and Shiva is represented to have various expressions with his third eye. This temple has the architectural design of the Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. Aarti Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Note That: Inside the temple premises, cameras are not allowed. 7. Darjeeling Mall And Chowrasta At the heart of Darjeeling town are the Darjeeling Mall and the Chowrasta. This is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. It is the best places to hang out for both tourists and localities. Here you will find the best restaurants, shops, boutiques and cafes. This is a must-visit place in Darjeeling for anyone to visit. During the evening, you will find a lot of entertainment options here. Few of the best shops around here are Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge, Curio Corner, Habeeb Mullick & Sons and the Jolly Arts & Bhutan Tibetan Art Shop. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. What Are The Nearest Railway Station And Airport To Darjeeling? The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is Darjeeling Railway station and Siliguri Railway Station. And the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located 70 km from Darjeeling. 2. What Is The Best Time To Plan A Holiday To Darjeeling? Depending on the season, you need to plan your trip here. If you are planning to visit during the summer for pleasant sightseeing you can visit from April-June.But if you are willing to experience the cold and with it wildlife, you can visit from October-December. 3. How Are The Accommodation Facilities For Tourists In Darjeeling? Darjeeling has a huge number of good quality accommodation facilities for tourists. No matter how you are traveling, big group, solo, as couple, or with family, there are options for all.From 5-star hotels to luxury resorts, pocket-friendly hotels, and even homestays, everything is present here in Darjeeling. Visit Now! Here I have pointed out the 7 best places in Darjeeling to visit, but there are more than 25 places to visit in Darjeeling, and Gangtok should be your next destination of choice. Darjeeling is a staple tourist destination for every Indian. It is the first place our parents took us to. It has a different emotion on my part. Read Also: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide Which Is The Largest Freshwater Lake In India? 10 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim