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BY  Nabamita Nov 30, 2023

When the chill of winter sets in, the allure of warm weather destinations becomes irresistible. From sun-drenched beaches to lush tropical forests, the world is brimming with spots perfect for shedding layers and basking in warmth.  In our roundup of the 10 best warm weather vacations, we explore diverse corners of the globe where the sun shines bright, the waters beckon, and the warm breeze carries the promise of unforgettable experiences. These destinations promise a respite from the cold and an adventure into the heart of warm weather bliss. 1. Seychelles Seychelles is a dreamy destination, known for its warm climate and stunning natural beauty. This archipelago in the Indian Ocean boasts 115 islands. Each is a slice of paradise with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. The lush tropical forests are home to rare wildlife, enhancing its allure. Among the must-visit spots is Mahe Island, the vibrant heart of Seychelles. This island also attracts foreign entrepreneurs who come here to open offshore companies and trusts. Praslin Island offers the unique Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. For a picturesque retreat, La Digue Island is unmatched with its iconic Anse Source D'Argent beach. 2. Anguilla Anguilla is a captivating warm weather destination, renowned for its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters. This Caribbean gem is a haven of tranquility, offering a perfect escape from the hustle of everyday life. Its coastline is dotted with over 30 stunning beaches, each with its unique charm. Shoal Bay East is a world-class beach known for its soft, white sands. Rendezvous Bay offers breathtaking sunsets and gentle waves, ideal for relaxation. For a touch of history, visit the Heritage Collection Museum. 3. Ibiza A jewel in the Mediterranean, Ibiza is famed for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches. This Spanish island attracts sun-seekers and party-goers alike with its warm climate and lively atmosphere. Its coastline is a mosaic of hidden coves and expansive sandy stretches, perfect for relaxation and water sports. Notable attractions in Ibiza include the bustling Ibiza Town, rich in history and culture. Playa d'en Bossa is renowned for its beach clubs and music scenes. For a quieter experience, visit the tranquil Cala Comte. Ibiza's blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and dynamic nightlife makes it a top warm weather destination. 4. Bali With its lush tropical climate, Bali is a premier destination for warm weather enthusiasts. This Indonesian island is famous for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches. Its diverse environment ranges from volcanic mountains to tranquil rice paddies, offering a unique experience. Popular attractions in Bali include Ubud, the cultural heart, known for its art and traditional crafts. Seminyak boasts trendy beaches and upscale boutiques. For breathtaking natural beauty, visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. 5. Menorca Menorca is a serene Balearic Island known for its idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, This Spanish island offers a tranquil alternative to its busier neighbors. Its landscape is adorned with charming coves and lush greenery, creating a peaceful retreat. Ciutadella is a picturesque and historic city on the western coast of Menorca with charming old town, Gothic architecture, and beautiful harbor. Cala Macarella is famous for its turquoise waters and scenic beauty. The island's capital, Mahon, offers a rich cultural experience with its Georgian architecture. 6. Morocco Diverse landscapes and rich culture make Morocco a fantastic warm weather destination. It offers sun-drenched beaches, vast deserts, and vibrant cities. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara Desert, each location presents a unique experience. The coastal city of Essaouira contains windy beaches and historic medina. The blue city of Chefchaouen enchants visitors with its picturesque streets. For a desert adventure, Merzouga is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Morocco's mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm climate make it an intriguing and exciting vacation spot. 7. Panama Panama is the bridge between Central and South America. It’s a top choice for vacationers because of its warm climate and diverse landscapes. It offers lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant city life. The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel, attracts visitors globally, while the capital, Panama City, blends modern skyscrapers with historic colonial architecture. For beach enthusiasts, Bocas del Toro is a must-visit with its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. The San Blas Islands offer an authentic experience with indigenous communities. Boquete is perfect for nature lovers, with its coffee plantations and cloud forests. 8. Croatia Croatia is a stunning warm weather destination, celebrated for its crystal-clear Adriatic Sea and historic coastal towns. Its landscape is a picturesque blend of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and lush national parks. The country's unique culture and Mediterranean cuisine add to its charm. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik, enchants with its well-preserved medieval walls. The Plitvice Lakes National Park offers breathtaking natural beauty with its cascading lakes and waterfalls. Hvar Island is famous for its sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife.  9. Moskito Island Moskito Island, nestled in the British Virgin Islands, is an exclusive and luxurious warm weather haven. Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, it offers an unparalleled private retreat. The island boasts lush landscapes, providing a backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Top attractions include private villas with breathtaking ocean views, offering ultimate privacy and comfort. Activities range from snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs to exploring secluded coves by kayak. Moskito Island's fusion of exclusivity, natural beauty, and serene environment makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a high-end, tranquil warm weather vacation. 10. Necker Island Necker Island is a private oasis in the British Virgin Islands. This 74-acre island is enveloped by turquoise waters and coral reefs, offering a paradisiacal escape. It's famed for its commitment to conservation and sustainability, hosting diverse wildlife including flamingos and giant tortoises. The island features sumptuous accommodations, each with unique, opulent designs that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Guests can indulge in activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing in the clear waters. The Great House, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the Caribbean. It's the social hub for exquisite dining and entertainment. 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BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

India is leading the dark tourism scenario With an expected CAGR of 5.1% (2024-2034),. Dark tourism in India thrives as it is the land of history and heritage. Also, travel a few miles, and you will get to know folklore or common myths related to paranormal activities.  So, dark tourism in India takes you to places associated with human tragedy or something that raises our curiosity. Endless warfare and the rule of various dynasties have drenched its soil in blood from time immemorial. Further, superstitions and oppressive customs in various parts of the country have caused human casualties that can give you a chill down your spine.  However, dark tourism in India or any part of the world is not just about people’s fascination with the macabre or its inclination to encounter the grey zone. Many dark tourism sites like the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands or Jallianwala Bagh tell the tales of a collective past.  So, these are often popular destinations for educational tourism or excursions. With endless stories and mysteries spread in every corner, India will spoil you with the choices of dark tourism spots. Here is a list of places you just can’t miss! Dark Tourism In India: These Are The Places You Need To Visit  For me, dark tourism in India is like communicating with the past. These places and the remnants there convey a message that can trigger our moral emotions such as empathy, gratitude, disgust, or sadness. Further, these moral emotions can change our perspective about ourselves, various communities, and society.  Moreover, curiosity is present in people’s love for the occult. Some categories of dark tourism, such as ghost tourism, thana tourism, and disaster tourism, especially urge many to get into the shadows. We absolutely agree with Karan Anand, the Head of Relationships at Cox & Kings. So, which places does dark tourism in India take us to? Here is a curated list! 1. Port Blair Cellular Jail | Kala Pani | The Prison Of Death Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands  One of the most prominent witnesses of British atrocities in the country, the Port Blair Cellular Jail tops almost all the lists of dark tourism in India.  The British government made a hell of concrete in 1906 in the form of a prison, and it was almost impossible to escape or come out of it.  Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a freedom fighter in India, was the only person who had escaped the Port Blair Cellular Jail.  The British Raj sent convicts with the highest punishment to this jail. Once, this jail housed as many as 80000 prisoners, and among them, at least a few hundred were the freedom fighters. The freedom fighters received the “Kalapani ki Saza” to lead a life of isolation.  Constructed in the shape of a starfish, the Port Blair Cellular Jail is witness to inhuman tortures and genocides. Along with the atrocities of the British Raj, it has also seen the genocides operated by the Japanese.  When at the Cellular Jail, don’t forget to attend the “Light & Sound” show in the evening. It is like time travel, giving you goosebumps.  2. Jallianwala Bagh Location: Amritsar City, Punjab The 13th of April 1919 saw one of the worst examples of British acts of barbarity in India. Innocent people had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar City to peacefully protest against British rule. Jalianwala Bagh was blocked from all sides, and Brigadier-General Dyer ordered his men to open fire at these innocent and unarmed people. The 1650 rounds of firing continued for 10-15 minutes, taking the lives of more than 500 people.  Today, when you visit Jallianwala Bagh, you can see many bullet holes struck in the structures there. In 1951, a memorial was built here to pay respect to the Indian revolutionaries. Further, in 2019, the inauguration of the Yaad-e-Jallian Museum took place. The museum depicts the most authentic account of the massacre.  A century later, in 2019, an official acknowledgment of “regret” came from British Prime Minister Theresa May on the Jalianwala Bagh massacre. This substantiates how grave and gruesome the act of mass killing was.  3. Roopkund Lake  Location: Uttarakhand Located at a 5000-meter altitude, Roopkund Lake is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Uttarakhand, India.  However, you can see hundreds of human skeletons near the lake, named  the “Lake of Skull.”  Researchers have found that around 200 pilgrims died of heavy snowfall in the place in the 9th century. So, there are so many skeletons around the lake. Roopkund Lake is also known as the “Mystery Lake,” and there are stories about the pilgrims getting turned into stones or the Goddess getting angry.  However, Veena Mushrif-Tripathy, a member of the 2004 investigation and a professor of archaeology at Deccan College in Pune, mentioned that the theory of the pilgrims was reasonable as there were no traces of weapons.  4. Shaniwar Wada Location: Pune, Maharashtra Shaniwar Wada, built in 1732 by Bajirao I, is a historically significant fort and stands out for its architectural excellence. This fort was once the seat of the Maratha Peshwas. This fort became a tourist attraction after the 2015 magnum opus of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bajirao Mastani. However, Shaniwar Wada is a favorite dark tourism in India destination because of a popular ghost story or folklore associated with it. Narayanrao, the son of Bajirao I, was killed by his uncle Raghunathrao in 1773 in this fort. Since then, people have experienced paranormal activities in the fort. Many have claimed to have encountered the dead prince.  5. Kuldhara  Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan How about visiting a village abandoned by its people around 200 years ago? Kuldhara, the cursed village of Jaisalmer, was the residence of the Paliwal Brahmins. They left the village because of water scarcity and the high taxes imposed by Diwan. Another story is about Salim Singh, the local prime minister, who wanted to marry the daughter of the village head. The villagers did not agree to his demands and vacated the place overnight. They also cursed the place, saying that no one could settle there.  Further, some even associate the overnight evacuation with paranormal activities. Whatever the reason, many people have tried but failed to spend a night in this village. Today, abandoned houses, temples, and other architecture speak of excellence, craftsmanship, and intrigue. It is also a favorite destination for movie-makers and photographers today. Films like “Agent Vinod” are shot here. Moreover, the village is now a “Protected Monument of the State Archaelogy Department.”  6. Dumas Beach Location: Surat, Gujarat Dumas Beach is one of the most haunted places in Gujarat. With its black sand and paranormal activities, this beach transforms into a hellish spot as the Moon shows up.  The beach was earlier a cremation ground. The black color of the sand comes from the ashes of those corpses. While we could not see the moving orbs or any prominent paranormal activity, I felt eerie at the beach. Also, I can’t explain, but there is something very depressing about this beach. It feels like you can hear the whispers of the lost here, and someone will suddenly appear in the shadows.  There have been reports of many tourists going missing from Dumas Beach. Also, one day, local people discovered the corpse of a man at the beach. His tongue was popping out. To date, no explanation has been found behind these tragic incidents.  7. Bhangarh Fort In the Aravallis, the Bhangarh fort has the remains of a deserted marketplace, Havelis, and temples. The architectural excellence of the fort is beyond question, and it speaks of a prosperous past.  However, Bhangarh Fort is the most haunted place in India. It has stories and myths enough to scare you to bits.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 1 The Archaeological Survey of India has banned entering or staying in the Bhangarh Fort after the Sunset. According to the local people, no one entering the fort at night has been able to come out alive. The fort becomes a site of paranormal activities in the darkness.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 2 Guru Balu Nath used to meditate at this place. When Raja Madho Singh visited him with a request to build a fort here, he agreed on one condition. He asked the king to promise that the shadow of the fort would not touch him. Despite the king’s promise, it did not happen. Furious, the hermit cursed the castle and the village.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 3 No house in the area has a roof. People believe that the roofs of those houses were destroyed due to the curse of the hermit. All attempts to rebuild the roofs went in vain. Many of those roofs also collapsed, causing human casualties.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 4 (Accidents And Deaths) Three people once decided to stay in Bhangarh Fort at night. They had a powerful torch, but one group member fell into a well. The two others rescued him and took him to the nearby hospital. However, they met with a fatal accident on the way to the hospital and lost their lives.  Do you want to explore more sites that are suitable for dark tourism in India? Visit the Taj Palace Hotel in Mumbai, Union Carbide Factory, Bhopal, Sites Of Indus Valley Civilization, Savoy Hotel, Mussoorie, and Gandhi Smriti, Delhi.  Listen to hushed murmurs and the stories these places have to share to make a journey to the past!  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]

BY  Sibashree Aug 22, 2022

The thrill of falling without the deadly consequence of hitting the ground – is what I call bungee jumping. If you are seeking thrilling recreational activities, going bungee jumping can be the single most interesting thing you can do. Especially if you are from India, and looking for the best places for the highest Bungee jumping in India, then I might be able to help you. In this article, I have talked about the highest bungee jumping point in India with details about the location and the price, and other required info for a jump. The Top 8 Spots For Bungee Jumping In India: The List Will Surprise You!  So, without any delay, let me take you bungee jumping in the best bungee jumping locations in India. Jumpin Heights, Rishikesh  Lonavala, Maharashtra  Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh  Ozone Adventures, Bangalore  Gravity Zone, Goa  Chhattisgarh, Jagdalpur  Wanderlust, New Delhi  Himvalley Camps, Manali  1. Jumpin Heights, Rishikesh The Jumping Heights in Rishikesh offers you the highest Bungee jumping in India. Jumpin Heights is at Mohan Chatti village in Rishikesh. Most importantly, it is the only place in India where you can experience Bungee jumping from a fixed place. There is a cantilever platform made over a rocky cliff. The platform is 83 meters from the ground. They have experienced staff to take care of all the safety precautions. If you are up for it, Rishikesh can be your Bungee jumping location. Location: Mohan Chatti village in Rishikesh. Bungee Jump Height: 83 m Minimum Age: 12 years. Cost Per Jump: INR 3500 2. Lonavala, Maharashtra Another great place for the highest Bungee jumping in India is Lonavala. On the outskirts of Pune, a tiny hill station, this is a proper location for thrilling Bungee Jumping. The jumping location is an adventure park. It is known as Della Adventures. The equipment is equipped at a height of 150 ft. The jump lasts for around and lasts about 7-10 minutes. If you are above the age of ten and weigh above 35 kg, then you are allowed to enjoy it from here. There are instructors helping you with the safety measures and instructions before the jump. The funniest part of all is that they offer you a certificate saying that you have overcome your fear of heights. Location: Maharashtra, Della Adventures in Lonavala. Bungee Jump Height: 45 m Minimum Age: 10 years Cost Per Jump: INR 1500 3. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh  Bungee jumping in Bir Billing is an exhilarating adventure that’s hard to forget. Imagine standing on a suspension bridge 50 meters above the ground, surrounded by breathtaking views of lush green mountains all around you. It truly feels like a leap of faith as you prepare to take the plunge. With experienced instructors guiding you every step of the way and strict adherence to safety standards, you can focus on the thrill of the jump without worrying about anything else. This adrenaline-pumping activity is available year-round, but the best times to experience both bungee jumping and the stunning paragliding are during the pleasant months of March to May and from October to November. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a unique experience, bungee jumping in Bir Billing promises an unforgettable rush!  Location- Gunehar, 2-3 km from Bir bus stop, Himachal Pradesh  Bungee Jumping Height- 50 m  Minimum Age- 12-14 years  Cost Per Person (INR)- 3300  4. Ozone Adventures, Bangalore If you love adventure, then you will love Bungee jumping from a crane. Yes, unlike the other locations, Ozone Adventures offers you the highest Bungee jumping in India from a height of 80 ft. Most interestingly, the equipment is attached to a 130 ft tall crane. Doing Bungee jumping from a crane/ unfixed platform makes it riskier for jumpers. The staffs here are helpful, and they offer to take all the precautionary measures before you jump and also give you valuable instructions before you make your jump. Location: Ozone Adventures, St. Mark's Road, Bangalore, Bangalore Bungee Jump Height: 25 m Platform and 40 m Crane Minimum Age: 18 to 60 years. Cost Per Jump: INR 400 5. Gravity Zone, Goa Beach hopping is not the only thing you can do in Goa. You can also go bungee jumping. It is not the highest bungee jumping point in India, but Anjuna beach has its reasons for the attraction. If you are new to bungee jumping, then this is indeed the place you can go to. Gravity Zone is a 25 m high tower and is perfect for first-timers to experience Bungee jumping. Compared to other locations, it is a smaller location for jumping. Also, the place does not charge you too much. Location: Gravity Zone, Anjuna Beach, Goa. Bungee Jump Height: 25 m Minimum Age: 14 years Cost Per Jump: INR 500 6. Chhattisgarh, Jagdalpur Another good and less overwhelming place to try Bungee jumping is Jagdalpur. If you are afraid of heights and still want to try out bungee jumping, then this is not the highest Bungee jumping in India to scare you too much. You can fight your fear of height from the 30 m bungee jumping location. Location: Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh. Bungee Jump Height: 30 m Minimum Age: 14 years. Cost Per Jump: INR 500 7. Wanderlust, New Delhi If you are from Delhi and thinking of going to other states to try out bungee jumping, then we have good news. Wanderlust in New Delhi offers this sporting activity. Most interestingly, the equipment for jumping is imported from Japan. The crew there are trained from Germany. The jumping equipment is attached to a 130 ft high crane. They also provide you with a certificate and a T-shirt and cap. Location: Wanderlust, New Delhi Bungee Jump Height: 52 m Minimum Age: 14 years. Cost Per Jump: INR 3000 8. Himvalley Camps, Manali  Bungee jumping at Himvalley Camps is an exhilarating experience that takes you 25 meters up to enjoy stunning views of the valleys near Manali. While it might not be the highest jump out there, the thrill of free-falling against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas is truly something special. Safety is a top priority at this campsite, with international standards in place and trained instructors ready to guide you through every step of the jump. It's a fantastic adventure for anyone aged 16 to 65, as long as you weigh between 35kg and 140kg. Just remember, if you're under 18, you'll need parental consent to take the plunge!  Location- Leh- Manali Highway, Manali  Bungee Jumping Height- 62.5 m  Minimum Age- 18+  Cost Per Person (INR)- 4000  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): If you are looking for the best bungee jumping locations in India, then these are the locations you may go to. However, here are some popularly asked questions and answers that I have answered. 1. What Is The Highest Bungee Jump? The highest Bungee jumping in the world is Bloukrans Bridge in the Western Cape of South Africa. It is the highest commercial and natural Bungee jumping in India. 2. Does A Bungee Jump Hurt? Indeed it is a thrilling and recreational activity. But, some free fallers experience serious injuries like compression fractures or herniated discs. Other serious injuries might also happen from Bungee jumping.  3. What Is The Cost Of Bungee Jumping In Rishikesh? If you are going to Jumpin Heights, then you will be charged INR 3500 for Bungee jumping. The entry ticket costs you 100 rupees. But, if you also want to do Giant Swing, you will be charged Rs 6500. A bungee jump and Flying fox combo cost you Rs 4750. 4. Where Is The Scariest Bungee Jump? If you are looking for the scariest bungee jumping location, then you have to go to Macau Tower ( 764 feet in China). You will definitely be thrilled and have goosebumps. 5. Which Place Is Best For Bungee Jumping In India?  The best bungee jumping in India is at Rishikesh, offering the highest and most scenic experience with platforms up to 87 meters high, operated by the reputable Jumpin Heights.  Choose Your Ideal Bungee Jumping In India  When looking for the highest Bungee jumping in India, you need to first visit Rishikesh. It is the best location for Bungee jumping from the highest location in India. The experience is thrilling, and you should be ready to feel your heart in your throat. All the bungee jumping locations talked about in this article are great to experience. Did you decide on where to go on Bungee jumping? Please let us know where you will go. Also, if you have any additional queries, you can leave them in the comment section.