Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz May 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-Ladakh Shimla-Manali Dehradun-Mussoorie Nainital-Ranikhet Jammu-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 India 5 Must-Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi. Experience Udaipur through Deccan Odyssey.

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 24, 2021

Dilwalon ka Shahar, or Delhi, is the microcosm of India. Every nook and alley here has people from different parts of the country. It is also home to iconic and historic monuments such as the Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and Rashtrapati Bhavan.  Further, Delhi has the famous Jawaharlal Nehru University, where the creme de la creme of the country study. Even taking a walk down the streets of Delhi and exploring its markets is a one-of-a-kind experience. The city, with many colors and moods, is like the tapestry of human lives in the country. So, no wonder you will find many offbeat destinations near Delhi, and you must get your bags ready!  Must-Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi Are you a Delhite looking for a quick weekend escapade? Or do you want to explore the quaint soul of Delhi? Here are some lesser-known places near Delhi that you can include in your itinerary. 1. Dausa: Did you watch Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Rises”? Remember the ‘pit’? Head to Dausa, a quaint traditional village near Jaipur that is home to the bewildering step well that featured in the Hollywood flick. Even if you haven’t watched the movie, you got to visit Dausa, as the village also hosts historical marvels such as Bhadrawati Palace and Khawaraoji. Located just 258 km away from Delhi, it is one of the offbeat destinations near Delhi that you can visit even with a day’s off at work. 2. Pangot: Pangot is a charming hill town in Nainital and is birdwatcher’s trove. The place recorded around 580 bird species, and you never know how many you may encounter on a trip to this mini bird paradise. Adding to your bird watching experience will be the scenic beauty of the place and the gorgeous resorts. Drive 310 km to encounter a few fluttering colorful feathers and enjoy a worthwhile holiday in Pangot. 3. Kanatal: Kanatal is situated in between two of the most popular hill stations in the country, Mussoorie, and Chamba. If you want to enjoy peace and tranquility, then you should probably drive 317 km from Delhi to Kanatal, rather than stopping at any of the two commercial hill stations. In addition to the serenity, you can even experience adrenaline rush by participating in exciting adventure activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling amid the hilly terrains. 4. Naukuchiatal: Located 320 km from Delhi, Naukuchiatal is one of the surreal travel destinations. The hill station is renowned as a lake of nine corners for its placid and beautiful lake, which is situated at 1220 mt above sea level and is 175 feet deep. The surrounding hills covered in trees and shrubs only augment the beauty and serenity of the place. Adding to your experience will be an independent art and music festival, Escape. Commercial hubs Nainital and Bhimtal surround Naukuchiatal on either side. So, the knife you are traveling to any of these locations, pay a visit to Naukuchiatal too. 5. Fagu: 3 km adrift Delhi is an enchanting little hill station in Shimla, Fagu. Enjoy the view of the majestic Himalayas, stone-walled houses, and lush green plantations all of which are soothing to the eyes. Besides the destination, the road trip to reach Fagu is as mesmerizing as the destination. Ensure you make the most of this offbeat weekend getaway because the peace and tranquility you get here are nowhere to be found in noisy Delhi. 6. Pithoragarh In the Soar Valley of the Almora district in Uttarakhand, Pithoragarh is one of the most picturesque offbeat destinations near Delhi. Not to exaggerate, it can equal the divine beauty of Kashmir.  Pithoragarh also stands out as a place soaked in religious and spiritual fervor. It has the highly revered Om Parvat and Manasarovar Lake, and Pithoragarh is the home of Mount Kailash.  Do you want the closest encounter with nature? You can trek through the mountainous terrain and cherish its pristine charm.  Moreover, Pithoragarh is the largest city in the Kumaon region. Anyone trekking to the Darma Valley or Milam Glacier will have to start from Pithoragarh as the base camp. Pithoragarh also holds a special place in the security of the country. It is a prominent base of the Indian Army.  You can choose Pithoragarh as your winter escapade or a honeymoon destination in the winter. In the months of January and February, Pithoragarh experiences snowfall. Skiing, snowboarding, and snow trekking are some of the most popular activities in this winter wonderland.  If you are in Pithoragarh in winter, you must not skip a visit to the Pithoragarh Fort. Located on a hilltop on the outskirts of Pithoragarh City, the fort looks out of the world with the embrace of the snow. Are you a foodie? Pithoragarh is known for its delectable Kumaoni cuisine. You cannot miss delicacies like Bhatt ki Churma and Singhal.  7. Dundlod Rajasthan has another offbeat destination near Delhi, Dundlod. Like most of Rajasthan, Dundlod also houses many forts and palaces. The iconic Dundlod Fort, built in the 17th century, now stands as a heritage hotel. Dundlod is a less crowded place. So, if you are traveling solo or you want to keep it quiet, it will be one of the best offbeat destinations near Delhi for you. Visit this hidden gem between October and March to have the most amazing experience.  Further, if you are interested in the history of Dundlod or Rajasthan, you must visit the Dundlod Fort Museum. The paintings, weapons, and artifacts here tell many tales.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Where should I go for three days vacation in Delhi? If you have a sudden plan of visiting Delhi and you need names of places then I will suggest you must visit these three places : Haridwar Manali Dehradun  Where can I go for a solo trip from Delhi? It’s very thrilling to travel all by yourself. It’s a good idea if you have started your solo trip journey from your own country. The top five places to travel solo  are as follows : Rishikesh  Mussoorie Jaipur Landsdowne  Kasauli  Where can I spend one day near Delhi? Well, there are many places in Delhi where you spend the day. But, the answer will have first top 4 places where you can stay. Camp Wild Dhauj  Camp Tikkling  Camp Mustang  Thakran Farms What are the best places in Delhi for couples? Couples can go everywhere but still, they look for a special place where they feel more comfortable. Therefore here are five top places in Delhi that you can visit with your partner. Hauz Khas Lodhi Garden Buddha Grden Deer Park Delhi Eye Pack Your Bags: Delhi is surrounded by mesmerizing landscapes that are a far cry from the concrete and polluted scenes that you find in the city. Traveling to these spots can help you unclutter your mind from daily office work, schedules, and meetings. The availability of self-drive cars in Delhi has made it easy for people who do not own a vehicle to enjoy a pleasant getaway with family and friends. So, contact a car rental agency today to rent a car in Delhi and enjoy a pleasant drive to these offbeat destinations near Delhi. Read Also : 10 Best Places for Honeymoon in India Top 10 famous Wonders of India What to Consider When Choosing Vacation Destinations for Families A Guide To National Parks In Georgia - Latest Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 5, 2017

If you come across arid, jagged mountains kissing the skies, you know it's Ladakh. Further, here, the dry winds seem to carry spiritual messages with them. Further, the ancient gompas (Tibetan monasteries), with their whitewashed walls, are repositories of solitude and knowledge. The pristine waters of the lakes here create a perfect impression of the encompassing surroundings. Once in Ladakh, there is so much to see and so much to explore, from pure blue freshwater lakes to picturesque passes, from dreamy valleys to frozen rivers. So, one must prepare oneself for a kaleidoscope of experiences here.  Have you recently decided to take a trip to Ladakh? This blog brings you the 25 amazing things to do in Ladakh. 25 Amazing Things to do in Ladakh: In South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) held between 22nd and 24th February 2024, Ladakh has been promoted as an all-weather tourist spot.  Visit this wonderland in any season, and you have something to do to fulfill your outdoor pursuits.  1. Sunrise at Pangong Tso Lake! Witnessing the sky streaked red by the morning sun can be an exhilarating experience. Doing the same by Pangong Tso Lake embellishes the experience further.  This spectacular lake made its appearance in the movie “3 Idiots.” Apart from that, it’s a highly coveted spot for late-night camping. 2. Biking on the World’s Highest Motorable Road! Imagine biking at Khardung La – one of the world’s highest motorable roads with a height of 18,380ft. You can plan a bike trip to this place from any city in India, or arrive at Leh, and book a bike there.  There are several holiday packages for Ladakh trip. Choose any one of your linking. 3. Camping delights! Another way of absorbing the alluring beauty of Ladakh is going camping. Some of the best camping sites are found at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri.  Camping by the lakes, one of the best things to do in Ladakh, is the best way to explore the surrounding landscapes and carry home some great memories. 4. Go Trekking One of the best manners of exploring the scenic landscapes of Ladakh is trekking. Be it the winter season or the summer season, trekking provides you with an outstanding experience.  Some of the most popular trekking routes here are Chadar, Stok Kangri, Tso Moriri, and Markha Valley. 5. Go river rafting! Struggling against the forceful rapids always gives you that ultimate adrenaline rush. No wonder then that river rafting is a favorite amongst tourists to Ladakh.  Nothing is more adventurous than fighting your way against the freezing waters of the Zanskar River. Along the way, you are treated to the magnificent sights of hilltop monasteries, hillside villages and glimpses of the unique wildlife. 6. Take the Ride-on Double Bactrian camel! The thrill of taking a ride on a double-humped Bactrian camel is simply indescribable. The place to do this would be the Nubra Valley, located at 12,000ft above sea level.  This wonderful wobbly ride takes you through the various landscapes of the region. This is the ride of a lifetime, making it one of the most amazing things to do in Ladakh! 7. Look, a snow leopard! Spotting a snow leopard is a real privilege. Further, these magnificent beasts, sporting white fur, camouflage themselves with the environs as they patiently wait for their prey.  One of the best places to view these lovely creatures is the Hemis National Park. This park is home to more than 200 snow leopards and is best visited during winter. 8. Explore Buddhist Monasteries! The various monasteries in Ladakh are some of the most ancient ones in the world. As such, they are a repertoire of knowledge and wisdom. One of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh is the Spituk Monastery.  It also enjoys a fabulous location and offers panoramic views of the surroundings. Another monastery worth checking out is Hemis Monastery. Besides being the biggest in all of Ladakh, it also hosts the famous Hemis Festival in June every year. 9. The Royal side of Ladakh! The magnificent Leh Palace lies in a dilapidated state in this day and age. However, its grandeur is still reflected in its wood and stone ruins. It is often visited by history and architecture enthusiasts.  Built by King Namgyal in the 17th century, this building is nine stories high. One can get panoramic views of the Zanskar and Stok Kangri ranges that traverse the Indus Valley. 10. Opt for a homestay! A great way to get acquainted with the culture of Ladakh is by opting for a homestay. Try to get in touch with a local family.  The warm-hearted people will host you with great zeal and enthusiasm. Enjoy a drink of butter tea, taste some delicious momos (dumplings), and have a great time. 11. Gaze at the starlit sky! When it comes to certified stargazing in India, nothing beats Ladakh! Engaging in stargazing here transports you to the world of stars and comets.  The infinite sky, glistening with stars, casts a magical spell on the onlooker. In Ladakh, the best place to do this is the Nubra Valley. 12. The Mysterious Magnetic Hill! Ever heard of a car ascending without any external force being applied to it? Don’t be shocked; defying the laws of physics is a common experience here.  The Magnetic Hill, as it’s commonly referred to, pulls a car or a bike towards the peak. The reasons behind this occurrence are as yet unknown. However, it’s worth giving it a try! 13. River of opportunity! One of the top things to do in Ladakh is to watch the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers. The frozen Zanskar River presents tremendous trekking opportunities during winter. Also known as Chadar Trek, it’s a favorite among adventure seekers. The surreal beauty of the icy world enveloping you throughout the trek leaves you overwhelmed. 14. Sipping Tea at the World’s highest Cafeteria A board stating the benefits of drinking black tea welcomes you to the Rinchen Cafeteria. Located at an altitude of 18,380ft, momos, and Maggi are also served along with tea.  This wonderful cafe has been named after Col. Rinchen for seizing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Once here, check out the various stories, paintings, and quotes by the Army. 15. Piping hot Maggie at High Altitude! Nothing beats the taste of piping hot Maggi at high altitudes. After a tiresome journey that leaves you exhausted, this humble meal is a blessing.  One of the best places to experience this treat is Khardung La. Here, not only do you enjoy the meal, but you discover a fascinating history associated with it. 16. Participate in the Mask Festival! Hemis Mask Dance Festival is one of the famous festivals in Ladakh. This colorful and vibrant festival takes place every year at Hemis Gompa, the biggest monastery in Ladakh.  The main attractions are the mask parade and the “Chaam” dance. Here, the Lamas put on a spectacle with their burgundy and mustard yellow attires 17. Attend a Ladakhi Wedding! A wedding in Ladakh is quite a solemn affair. However, the various rituals associated with it are every bit as interesting. The couple wears ceremonial dresses while the guests, seated on small tables, are served butter tea.  Traditional songs are played, and dance goes on for hours. “Chang,” the local alcohol is served, and everyone joins in the festivities. 18. Ladakh’s local delicacies! Ladakh’s cuisine is the result of an innovative twist to Kashmiri cuisine. One of them is the delicious stew, which contains a wonderful combination of ingredients like rice, noodles, momos, Thukpa, etc.  One should also try the Yak Cheese and the Yak Cheese momos here. Of course, no meal is complete without trying the local butter tea. 19. Meditate by the famous lakes! Lakes in Ladakh enchant visitors with their breathtaking beauty. They are known as “Tso.” Pangong Tso, which means “long and narrow lake,” is the highest saltwater lake in the world.  Tso Kar and Tso Moriri are two famous lakes. Mirpal Tso attracts travelers with its sandy bed and turquoise waters. 20. Pleasures of bird watching! The enormous and arid landscape of Ladakh is a haven for diverse avifauna. This region has various species of birds as visitors. Further, many of them are endangered.  The amazing solitude makes bird watching in Ladakh a perfectly blissful activity. Bird watching is popular in Suru Valley, Rizong Monastery, and Nubra Valley, among others. 21. Pray Some, Spin Some! Ladakh has several monasteries that are as charming as they are fascinating. A visit to any of them is sure to leave you with great memories.  One of the prime activities to do in a monastery is to spin a prayer well. Spinning the prayer wheel, according to Buddhist traditions, ushers in good luck. So, when in Ladakh, spin that wheel! 22. Mingle with monks! One of the great attractions of visiting the monasteries is mingling with the monks. Saffron-clad and bald, they possess a wealth of knowledge with a good dose of humor.  Request them humbly, and you may just be in for a session of fascinating tales and stories. 23. Make-a-wish stones Since the beginning of history, stone stacking has been followed by making a wish. During earlier ages, they served the roles of messengers, signs, and landmarks.  The locals, however, believe that stacking stones brings good luck to travelers. Stack some stones, and make a wish! It’s time for manifestation. 24. Shop in the Local Markets to Carry Memories of the Ladakh Trip! Shopping takes an exciting turn in the Ladakh markets. It’s the best place for mingling with the locals and learning various aspects of their culture.  Further, the streets have numerous stalls that display exotic items. From hand-woven rugs, wall hangings, and wicker baskets to woolen bags, one finds it all here! 25. Visit Leh City after sunset! Sunsets in Leh City are unlike any other you may have come across. Here, the sun takes its own time to leisurely paint the sky red.  One of the best places to witness the sunset here is Shanti Stupa. Also, bring your camera along and capture some great shots. Taking some photos here is one of the most amazing things to do in Ladakh.  Exploring The First Stargazing Site For Tourists In India: Amazing Things To Do In Ladakh Our list of top 25 things to do in Ladakh already has stargazing as an activity. However, the growing popularity of stargazing in Ladakh demands a detailed discussion about this fascinating outdoor pursuit.  All eyes were especially on the Ladakh sky as the Aurora Borealis became visible in Ladakh, thanks to the most intense solar storm in more than two decades. In May 2024, a stable red arc filled the sky in Ladakh, and the engineers at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve confirmed the arc to be stable, consistent, and lasting for hours.  The appearance of the Aurora Borealis in Ladakh is a remarkable incident after Hanle Dark Sky Reserve was prepared as the first stargazing site in India in February 2023.  The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is located at an elevation of 4500 meters, and it’s at Han le village, made of six hamlets.  However, along the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, there are many other places in Ladakh for stargazing. Know them before you plan a trip to Ladakh. Pangong Lake Alchi Lamayuru Tso Moriri Nubra Valley For the best stargazing experience in Ladakh, you must plan a trip in the summer. The summer months from April to June offer the best sky visibility with pleasant weather conditions. Further, the full moon nights in these months dazzle the stars in the sky. In fact, the full moon nights in summer are the best days to observe the Milky Way in the Ladakh Sky.  So, if you want to try some truly unique things to do in Ladakh, include stargazing into your itinerary.  Read also 10 best places to visit in Sikkim 10 Best Places to Visit in Europe 5 Must Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi