Fun Things To Do In Pigeon Forge

BY  Sibashree Jan 30, 2026

“Mera kaat kaleja dilli Mera kaat kaleja dilli Lai gayi kaat kaleja dilli Mui dilli le gayi…” Though the context is different, for me, this No One Killed Jessica song sums up Delhi these days. Even if “Incredible India” calls Lodhi Garden “A green oasis in the heart of Delhi,” the official CPCB report marks the AQI at 283, or poor.  Furthermore, in a YouTube video published on the “Newslaundry” channel, the vlogger recorded an AQI between 336 and 340, meaning the air quality was very poor.  Amidst this, the good news is that the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has launched a waste management and cleanliness drive in Lodhi Garden. This initiative will help maintain the cleanliness of the garden without impacting its ecology.  Nevertheless, the Lodhi Garden has always been a public place in Delhi, offering respite from the noise and traffic of Delhi.  Here’s to a calm day in Delhi at the Lodhi Garden and nearby Khan Market.  Lodhi Garden: Location, Entry Fee, Timing, Official WebsiteAddressMain Lodi Road, Beside India International Centre, New Delhi, Delhi – 110003Entry FeeNilPhotography Fee NilTimings6:00 AM – 7:30 PMOfficial WebsiteDELHI TOURISMPhotography AllowedYesNearest Metro StationJLN Metro Station What Is The Lodhi Garden? The Lodi Garden is a green escape on the Lodi Road in South Delhi. It is between Safdarjung’s Tomb and Khan Market.  Covering an area of 90 acres, this Garden is home to many tombs from the Lodi, Sayyid, and Mughal dynasties.  However, it is more than a place where history breathes through the Indo-Islamic architecture. With gardens, exercise machines, walking paths, and running tracks, it is a popular place for outdoor fitness activities.  Also, it is a paradise for art lovers, thanks to its stunning sculptures and art installations. What Is The History Of The Lodhi Garden? The history of this beautiful garden goes back to the 15th century. It was the burial ground of the Lodhi lords. The most significant tombs here are those of Sikandar Lodhi and Mohammed Shah.  The tombs and ruins were earlier scattered around the village of Khairpur till 1931. However, in 1936, the villagers were moved from the village, and this monument was created. The tombs had exotic and native trees around.  Furthermore, the garden got its name from Lady Willingdon Park after the name of the British Viceroy’s wife.  It was named the Lodhi Garden in 1947 after India’s independence, in memory of the tombs present here.  However, the current form we see today is the work of American architects Joseph Allen Stein and Garrett Eckbo in 1968. They added the rose garden, bonsai park, the lake with a fountain, and a glasshouse.  A Brief Historical Timeline Of The Lodhi Garden  1414–1451 (15th Century)• Becomes a burial site for the Sayyid Dynasty• The Tomb of Muhammad Shah was built in 1444. 1451–1517• The Lodhi Dynasty (1451–1526) used the tomb.• Included the Sheesh Gumbad and Bara Gumbad. 1517–1518• Ibrahim Lodi built the tomb of his father, Sikandar Lodi, after his death in 1517. 1936• The Khairpur Village was cleared, and a landscaped park called Lady Willingdon Park was constructed. 1947• India became independent, and Lady Willingdon Park was renamed Lodhi Garden. 1968• J.A. Stein and Garrett Eckbo enhance the Lodhi Garden as a public place with various additions. Present Day• The Archaeological Survey of India protects it for the preservation of its Sultanate-era architecture and diverse flora.  Visiting The Lodhi Garden: The Tombs And Architecture To See Whenever I am in Delhi, I make a point to visit the Lodhi Garden. I love the calming effect and the scent of history here.  I also take random walks in the park, and each time, the park surprises me with something new. Even if it is nothing else, a wildflower that I have not seen before will smile at me. Or a squirrel will greet me and then will be gone in a blink.  Also, irrespective of the direction of your entrance (East, West, North, and South), you will find ancient buildings here.  1. The Tomb of Sikandar Lodi To The North The magnificent Tomb of Sikandar Lodi is to the north. It is one of the oldest garden tombs of India.  Furthermore, it has an octagonal structure. Also, despite its Indo-Islamic architecture, it has small domed pavilions or Chattris, which were a signature of Rajput architecture.  Also, the Overhanging Eaves or Chajjas and supporting brackets seen here come from the Rajput legacy.  2. The Sheesh Gumbad In The Centre The Sheesh Gumbad stands like a witness to time amidst the greenery of the park. It is a domed building with a cube shape.  The interior of the dome ceiling is decorated. Furthermore, from the arched openings on the four sides of the tomb, you will get amazing views of the park.  The only problem I feel is the presence of selfie-obsessed visitors. They somehow ruin the mood and do not understand the somberness of the place.  I even found some pre-wedding shots going on there.  Call me old-school! But these things irritate me.  3. Bada Gumbad Or Bara Gumbad To The South Bada Gumbad has an architecture similar to the Sheesh Gumbad. However, living up to its name, this tomb is bigger than Sheesh Gumbad.  It is also one of the oldest full-domed buildings in the country, and it serves as a beautiful entrance to the adjacent Jama Masjid.  4. The Jama Masjid Or The Friday Mosque  This mosque was built in the 15th century, and it has the typical red sandstone architecture, which was a signature of the Lodhi era.  Furthermore, here you will notice amazing geometric designs and calligraphy on the arches and columns.  5. The Tomb Of Muhammed Shah On The Southern End  The Tomb of Muhammad Shah is the oldest in the garden, and it is located on the southern end of the park.  You have to walk through a covered walkway to reach this tomb in an octagonal shape.  Along with these major tombs and architecture, the park also has many old tombs, structures, and ruins.  Furthermore, with the recent expansions, there are dedicated Yoga lawns, herb gardens, rose gardens and a glasshouse. Moreover, there are exercise machines.  Also, the trees here are home to a handsome population of squirrels, chipmunks and various species of birds. You will especially notice eagles spiralling over the park.  Some Practical Tips For Visiting The Lodhi Garden The Lodhi Garden is a free public space with the richest diversity of plants, historic architecture, and ruins. So, it is a budget-friendly place to visit.  It is easily accessible by autos and metro routes. Here is more on how to reach the park, basic amenities, and nearby attractions.  How To Reach The Lodhi Garden? The Lodhi Garden is close to four metro stations.  Station NameMetro LineDistance Jor BaghYellow Line1.4 KmKhan MarketViolet Line1.6 KmJangpuraYellow Line4.2 KmJLN StadiumViolet Line2.6 Km From these metro stations, you can take autos. If you are coming from Jangpura or the JLN Stadium, you can even book an Uber to avoid negotiations with the local drivers.  How Much Time Is Required At The Lodhi Garden?  I don’t have an answer to that. From an hour to the entire day, the time you spend here will depend on your intent of visit.  It takes around 20 minutes to complete a walk around the park. However, if you want to appreciate the tombs and their architecture, it will take longer.  Also, the rich community of trees here always asks you to stay a little longer. Moreover, the Lodhi Garden is a popular picnic spot. Is There A Toilet At Lodhi Garden?  Yes, there are toilets at Lodhi Garden, and they are well-maintained.  Are Food And Drinks Available At Lodhi Garden?  There is no permanent stall of official setup for food and drinks at Lodhi Garden. However, you will find vendors selling snacks, drinks, ice cream, and the famous chats of Delhi at the entrance.  Furthermore, inside the park, you will find many wandering vendors. They set up their stalls on a tripod instantly and make mouthwatering chaats and snacks for you.  You can even pack your food and have it at the Lodhi Garden for a picnic vibe. Irrespective of where you get the food from, please be careful about waste disposal.  However, if you are really hungry and want to gorge on proper Delhi food, head to the nearby Khan Market.  What Are The Places To Visit Near The Lodhi Garden? You can combine your day in the Lodhi Garden with a visit to the Safdarjung Tomb and the Khan Market. Also, you can explore the nearby Lodhi Art District.  1. The Safdarjung Tomb It is the tomb of the Mughal Empire's Vazir Safdarjung, and it shows a mix of Persian and Indian styles of architecture.  It has beautiful marble and red stone architecture. Moreover, built in 1754, it was the last monumental Mughal garden tomb in Delhi.  2. The Khan Market  You will find all the designer and branded clothes at Khan Market. It is a high-end shopping district, and it brings you back to the present after a date with history in the Lodhi Garden.  Furthermore, it is the place to have a posh coffee date, an upscale luncheon, or an artisan cake tasting. You must try the wood-fired pizzas at the restaurants here.  Moreover, if you really want to enjoy the evening in South Delhi, Khan Market is the place to be. The bars and lounges here come to life after sundown.  How To Reach Khan Market? You can walk for ten minutes from the north entrance of the Lodhi Garden, or you can take an auto from the south entrance.  Moreover, there is a metro station called Khan Market on the Violet Line.  3. The Lodhi Art District The Lodhi Art District is a few blocks south of the Lodhi Garden. It was the last housing estate the British had built in India.  However, today, it is a place that belongs to the Indian artists. You will find more than 50 street artworks and murals here.  Take an auto or walk for 15 minutes to reach the Lodhi Art District from Lodhi Garden.  Where To Stay Near Lodhi Garden? If you want a luxury experience, you can stay at The Lodhi. Furthermore, there are many budget-friendly accommodations near Lodhi Garden.  These are Hotel O Maharaja Inn and Evergreen Delhi Bed and Breakfast. Finding A Place To Relax In The Heart Of Delhi  Delhi, the capital of India, has endless attractions in the true sense. From the Jantar Mantar to Humayun’s Tomb, it is a living tapestry of history and human culture.  However, whenever you feel overwhelmed by the bustling crowd and noise of Delhi, you can visit the Lodhi Garden and catch your breath.  Read Also: Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit [Updated 2024] Dark Tourism in India Exploring Shadows and Must-Visit Sites Varkala Beach: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

BY  Sibashree Jan 22, 2025

International tourists flock to Europe in great numbers. The number is well above 700 million. Do you know Europe is becoming more popular as a tourist destination annually?  Breathtaking European Landmarks mold history, culture, and a holiday destination at once. To start with, there are architectural marvels in Europe. Alongside these are fantastic natural settings like the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland.  I always feel ecstatic when I am on a Europe trip. I bet all travelers feel the same way. But I admit, it is impossible to cover all spectacular locations simultaneously. So, you must sort out some of the finest places you can cover on your trip.  Firstly, choose accessible locations. Secondly, go for connecting destinations to smooth and streamline your trip. Let me help you spot the most exciting places you must cover on your upcoming Europe trip.  1. Eiffel Tower, Paris, France What could be a better location to start your Europe trip? Around 75% of Europe's average 7 million foreign tourists visit the Eiffel Tower each year.  This monumental structure is the pride of Paris. But French tourism rests a lot on it. Meanwhile, the tower has already become a romantic destination. What’s more, it is a work of sheer artistic brilliance.  Things You Can Do?  To see such a site with the naked eye is a big tick on the checklist itself. Meanwhile, the Eiffel Tower has a separate fanbase among young adults and romantic couples. You may also climb to the tower top.  When the panoramic view of the heart of Paris hits you, the feeling is different. Every day is a good time to visit the Eiffel Tower.  Thirdly, you can enjoy a fancy picnic in the Champ de Mars with all those Parisian vibes. Based on licenses, permits, and rules, your entry ticket to the place may cost you €14,20 to €35.30.       If you don’t feel like climbing up, you may stand near the iron structure of the monument. Now tell me what your visit to the Eiffel Tower would be like?  2. Colosseum, Rome, Italy The Roman Colosseum is indeed one of the best European landmarks. Firstly, the Colosseum gives a crude spark of ancient history. Secondly, it is a visual treat.  I can vouch that there is nothing akin to the Colosseum in the world. Meanwhile, do you know the history of the Colosseum?  It is a gigantic amphitheater. People flocked there to see live gladiator battles. I was mesmerized by the seamless Roman architecture and engineering marvel when I visited the place. There is a story oozing out from every wall you touch.  If you are imaginative like me, you might still hear the buzz of swords clanking, crowds rumbling, and the mercury rising.  When I last visited Rome, they had a Colosseum super saver offer on ticket options. Usually, the entry ticket price is 94.64 Euros. However, we got it at 44% off. Let me know the current entry price in the comments if you’ve been there recently.  3. Acropolis, Athens, Greece Are you a fan of Greek history and aesthetics? Then, nothing would seem more appealing than a trip to Athens. I paid for a trip to the Acropolis last year. So, I will keep it on my list. Above all, it is worth visiting if it’s your first time in Greece.  However, the Acropolis is no super-structure to amaze you. Instead, it is a cluster of temples in ruins and surrounding civilization. The place is 512 feet above sea level.  I liked the Parthenon more than anything here. My POV is the best sample of the inspiring Greek architecture. You should also know that sunrise or sunset is the best time to visit the place. The place is wrapped in marble.  The place emits a serene glow when the lush golden streaks of sunlight fall on it. It’s the same both times of the day.  4. Buckingham Palace, London, England While many associate Buckingham Palace with the British monarchy, it is more than just a royal residence. It is a cultural landmark.  On my first trip to Europe, I visited Buckingham Palace. I feel all travelers should also do the same. The Guard ceremony is something you can't miss. Plus, there is a lot more to do here. Strolling around the palace gardens or admiring the grand façade feels special. I think that is the best part about the European Landmarks. Most places are scenic and seem like an extension of nature.  What I liked the most was the regal British aura inside the palace.  5. La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain One of my favorite European Landmarks is Barcelona. I hope you also know about the legendary Antoni Gaudi, who designed the Sagrada Família. If you love aesthetics and found Athens praise-worthy, you will definitely love it here.  Usually, ticket prices don’t vary. But prices may be slightly higher during the carnivals. The baseline- thecoste of tickets will vary between 29 to 49 Euros. But remember one thing. The place is not free for children. Tickets for them could range between 20 and 42 Euros.  You need 2 hours to explore the space entirely. The spires and the stained glass primarily draw me. But it’s not just the windows. The complex facades also appeal to me.  6. Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany Straight out of a fairytale, Neuschwanstein Castle is as enchanting as it gets. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, it inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, and it’s easy to see why.  The combination of its romantic architecture and stunning natural backdrop creates a magical experience. For the best view, hike up to Marienbrücke Bridge 7. Grand Canal, Venice, Italy Venice feels like a living museum, but the Grand Canal is the show's star. Gliding along in a gondola or Vaporetto offers a unique perspective of the city’s architecture, bridges, and colorful buildings.  Each corner of the canal tells a story, whether a grand palazzo or a bustling market. It is a slice of Italy you’ll never forget. 8. Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England Stonehenge is one of Europe’s most mysterious landmarks. These ancient stones, arranged in a circular formation, puzzle historians.  Was it a calendar? A religious site?  Standing among the stones, you can’t help but feel a connection to the past. Visiting during the summer or winter solstice makes the experience even more atmospheric. 9. Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic Spanning the Vltava River, Charles Bridge is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Lined with statues and offering stunning views of Prague Castle, it’s a dream for photographers and romantics alike.  You can visit it at sunrise for a peaceful stroll or in the evening when it is bustling with street performers. The bridge has an undeniable charm. 10. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a paradise of cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush greenery. Wooden walkways wind through the park, allowing you to explore its beauty up close.  The vibrant turquoise waters are almost surreal, making it feel like you have entered another world. Planning Your Next Adventure Choosing which European landmarks to visit first might feel like a challenge (especially with so many incredible options). But the beauty of Europe is its accessibility.  Many of these destinations are just a train ride or short flight away from one another. So, it is easy to combine multiple stops in one trip. Whether you are a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or nature lover, Europe has something to ignite your wanderlust.  So, which landmark is calling your name? Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Mar 20, 2024

Siam Square is a popular shopping area in the heart of Bangkok, known for its classy shopping malls and plenty of street markets. This capital is different from others as it allows you to explore museums, visit amazing temples, and watch Thai boxing matches, all in one area. Whether you're a shopaholic or not, you can enjoy street and window shopping, view amazing art, and interact with large wax statues of your favourite celebrities. Unmissable Experiences: Top Things To Do In Siam Square From world-class shopping to cultural landmarks, this vibrant district has something for everyone. Here are the absolute best activities to add to your Bangkok itinerary: Window Shop At Central Chidlom If you love window shopping, visit Central Chidlom to see the products in its flower display. Get a foot massage at Siam Square from this stylish store, which has seven floors and is internationally known for its huge, unique, and attractive display. Do Amazing Shopping At Siam Square The square is a huge hub for all your shopping needs, with large malls, small boutiques, and low-budget street shops. You can comfortably do street and window shopping, and after a tiring day of shopping, join one of the many restaurants and cafes for food and drinks. You can shop from 10 am to 10 pm, Thailand time. Watch The MBK Fight Night One of the most exciting things you can do in Siam Square is to see Thai boxers fight against worldwide boxers. On the last Wednesday of every month, you can watch a live Muay Thai Boxing match free of charge. The fight is hosted with live commentary, ring girls, and a music band at 444 Phayathai Rd, Wang Mai. Take Photos With Global Celebs At Madame Tussauds Museum Get a chance to brush shoulders with your favourite local and international celebs, Hollywood stars, heads of state, and sports heroes and heroines at Madame Tussauds Museum. You’ll find life-sized wax statues of famous guys and have a chance to touch, hug, and even kiss them. You can access them any day of the week from 10 am to 9 pm. Visit Jim Thompson House Art lovers worried about what to do in Bangkok are well catered for. They can access well-designed South Asian art at Jim Thompson House. Here you will find old Buddha images, Chinese porcelain made in the 14th century, and 18th-century paintings. Visit any day of the week, between 10 AM and 5 PM, to see all this art. Idol At Paragon Shopping Mall If you are having a tiring day, just wander around the huge, plush, and luxurious shopping mall. If you love admiring pricey, high-end electronics, materials, and clothing, you will enjoy moving from one floor to another and taking it all in. You could also enjoy luxurious and underworld dining in the same mall. Explore Erawan Shrine Find a time between 6 am and 10 pm to visit one of Bangkok's most popular Hindu shrines. You can go there to pray, meditate, or enjoy Thai and lion dances at the shrine. Enjoy all kinds of fun, from amazing shopping and hugs and kisses from your favourite celebs to prayer and meditation, art, and window shopping at Siam Square. Best Places To Shop Around Siam Square, Bangkok In this section, we discuss some of the great places you can visit in Siam Square. Enjoy Siam Paragon Siam Paragon offers a range of brands, mainly upmarket ones, where people can go shopping. The glass and steel megamall covers a vast area. You will find around 250 shops there. You could also find Asia’s largest aquarium, a 16-screen cineplex, and plenty of gourmet restaurants and cafes. There, you could find the flagship stores of Prada, Louis Vuitton, and the Thai bespoke stores, which occupy the 4th floor. The place is great and offers a great shopping experience. You will undoubtedly feel like you are flying high inside the buzzing shopping mall filled with life. CentralWorld  CentralWorld is undoubtedly one of the most visited places in Siam. It has everything, from fashion to high-tech electronics and imported groceries. You will certainly get a glimpse of the best shopping experience. The mall is always buzzing with life. Events and concerts cater to people across diverse age groups. You can find the 15-screen SF World Cinema, Isetan department stores, and Zen there. Apart from that, you can also find hundreds of restaurants and cafes. MBK Center The MBK Centre is well known for affordable shopping. It's a gigantic place with around 2000 shops spread across about seven floors. One of the main selling points is the extensive range of products, including photo equipment, video games, gold ornaments, and more. Whatever you wish to shop for, you can easily find it here. It is a great shopping experience with plenty of food choices. Siam Center Another shopping centre on the list of trending fashion malls in Siam, Bangkok, is Siam Centre. There, you get dozens of boutiques. You can also find products from Thai designers. The mall is a place where you can have the utmost fun. Fashion brands like Steve Madden, Adidas, Pull & Bear, Victoria’s Secret, and others. It's a fun place to explore the best offerings from the best brands. Gaysorn Village Gaysorn Village is one of the most luxurious upmarket shopping complexes. It is a storehouse of high-end, luxurious goods. Its contemporary design and innovative retail concept create an exclusive shopping experience you won't want to miss. You can expect a wide range of products from international brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, and Prada, among the best brands in Thailand. Thailand's most innovative designers include Senada Theory, Kloset Red Carpet, and Fly Now.  These products are highly competitive and of great quality when compared with the best international brands. Beyond its renowned places, Siam Square also offers other great places for a top-notch shopping experience. They include Erawan, Ermin Plaza, Hard Rock Shop, Centre Point Siam Square, and others. Read Also: Crime Rate In Florida Trending Down While California Skyrockets: Report World’s Most Famous Christmas Tree Has Reached Trafalgar Square