Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 30, 2020

If you are traveling to India for the first time, you’ll for sure feel a little bit overwhelmed, confused and excited at the same time. Adjusting to the culture shock, frenetic energy and diversity will take some time. But worry not, once you get used to the Indian ways, you’ll develop a special bond with this place that will urge you to come back again and again. If you are travelling to India, here are a few facts about India to keep in mind before and while you are on your trip: Craziest Things To Know If You Are Traveling To India For The First Time Indian travel reaches a new high in the first quarter of 2024. Indian airports have enjoyed the footfall of around 376 million passengers. Further, 69.6 million in this traffic were international passengers.  Moreover, the numbers show a massive improvement compared to 2019. Also, there is a 15% growth from the records in 2023. These numbers show why traveling in India is so huge this year. So, it is no surprise that you are planning a trip to India this year. Is this the first time for you to visit this land of spirituality? Keep some smart tips handy to avoid travel hassles. 1. EXPLORE A PLACE AND TAKE YOUR TIME When you are traveling to India for the first time, don’t hop from one place to another too soon because then you won’t really get a feel of the real India and experience the place deeply. Take your time with a place. Stay there for a few days. Also, visit different sites in that place, get to know the local people and traditions of the place, and relish the experience. For example, if you go to Kerala in South India, then stay there for at least 9 -10 days, exploring the local food and culture and different festivals.Many top-notch yoga retreats in India are also held in Kerala. If you want to experience the true spiritual gift of India, that is, yoga and meditation, you can attend a yoga and meditation retreat or a yoga teacher training course in one of the best yoga schools in Kerala. 2. EXPLORE MORE THAN JUST THE CITIES The real beauty of India lies not only in the cities of India but also in the cities in the natural world. The forests, the majestic mountains, the motherly rivers, the gorgeous oceans, the pristine beaches, and the divine landscapes will surely give you the experience of a lifetime. Travel to the Himalayas in north India, the beaches of south India, the Western Ghats, and the Mangrove forests in the east and experience a deeper connection with Mother Nature. 3. DRESS ACCORDINGLY In most parts of India, the dress code is Indian sarees and traditional Indian clothes though many people in the cities wear western clothing as well. Please wear clothes that cover your body appropriately, especially when you are visiting the rural parts of India, temples, mosques, etc. It is also a custom in India to open your shoes outside while visiting a temple or a religious site. 4. RESPECT THE INDIAN PEOPLE AND THE INDIAN CULTURE Most Indians are very warm-hearted, which is truly one of the best qualities of Indian people. They are welcoming and love it when people from around the world visit the country. Be respectful to the Indian people and Indian culture. The Indian people will greet you with warmth and acceptance. Make sure you can be humble and return the same. 5. BE PREPARED TO EXPLORE DEEP SPIRITUALITY One of the most well-known facts about India is that it is the origin of yoga and meditation. Many top-level yoga and meditation schools offer yoga retreats in India. If you genuinely want to feel the deep spiritual connection of India and want to learn the ancient art of yoga and meditation, then you can enroll yourself in one of the best yoga schools in India. Some of the best yoga schools of India are in Kerala in South India and Rishikesh in North Indian at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. 6. KEEP AN OPEN MIND Keeping an open mind is a great way to travel the land of India as you will see things that you did not expect to, like children asking for food while you are stuck in traffic. “In the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India ranks 111th out of the 125 countries with sufficient data to calculate 2023 GHI scores. With a score of 28.7 in the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India has a level of hunger that is serious.” 7. AVOID PDA Avoid public displays of affection towards your partners, as this is not a common thing in the culture of India. Avoid kissing and excess public display of affection as a respect for the Indian culture 8. TRY OUT THE INDIAN FOOD You will find all kinds of foods, dishes, and cuisines in India that will relish your taste buds. You can try out the North Indian dishes, the south Indian dishes, and the local food of whichever place you travel to. Be mindful of the water you are consuming and make sure it is purified. Most places have clean water to drink, but it is advised to be mindful. 9. GET A SIM CARD Getting a sim card would be helpful as you can use the internet to have easy navigation through the landscapes of India. A sim card will allow you to navigate google maps, best restaurants, and make calls to your home country. Though only Indians can buy a SIM card in India, you can ask your trusted Indian friend to buy you a SIM card. There are also special provisions for sim cards for foreigners. 10. UNDERSTAND THE UNSPOKEN INDIAN LANGUAGE Indians communicate a lot without words and just simple hand gestures or head nods. The classic Indian head nod is one of the most common communication methods in India. Usually, it means yes or no, depending on the context. Understanding the unspoken Indian language can make your trip interesting and can be helpful too. 11. BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS While this advice applies to many places around the globe, it is always a good idea to keep your cash, cards, and belongings safe, especially in the populated cities of India. 12. FIND A TRUSTWORTHY INDIAN FRIEND WHO CAN GUIDE YOU It is also wise to have a trustworthy Indian friend who can help you out in a foreign country and guide you in case you are confused about something. Knowing someone trustworthy and intelligent in India who can help out is also an advantage. 13. DO YOUR RESEARCH Do a good in-depth research of India and the places that call out to you the most in India. India is a vast country, and it is not advised to cover the whole country in one short trip. Do your research and see which places you feel the most drawn to and then make a detailed itinerary of your trip. 14. KEEP YOUR CALM Scamsters, touts, etc. often target foreigners to make some quick bucks by simply luring them with good deals which are not in fact, good deals. You’ll come across different people (agents, cab drivers, etc.) who’ll insist on giving you the best deals (maybe hotel charges, tour packages). But don’t lose your head over these things. Simply keep your calm and try to show them that you know better. Slowly you’ll learn the tricks to handle such people. 15. DON'T HESITATE TO BARGAIN Indian markets are colorful and have some beautiful things like leather bags, clothes, artifacts, and so much more that you can buy. However, some shop keepers give a higher price to those traveling from another country. Don’t be afraid to bargain and get a reasonable price for your purchase. Sharpen your bargaining skills and have fun with it. Is India Safe To Travel For Women? (Most) Important Things To Know Before Traveling To India For The First Time As I write this article, the cry of #JusticeforRGKar becomes more prominent to me. A month has passed since the rape and murder of a lady PG doctor of the Pulmonology department in the R G Kar Medical College and Hospital. Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal, a state in the eastern part of India.  There is still a protest going on, and people from all walks of life are participating in it with a suspicion of state machinery’s involvement in the case. Further, it aches my heart, but I have to mention that Delhi experienced one of the heinous acts of rape and murder a few years back in the form of the Nirbhaya case.  People across borders are aware of these incidents today. So, the question of women’s safety while traveling to India is obvious. Further, if we look at the Booking.com travel predictions for 2024, we can see that 54% of women will likely embrace solo travel instead of a couple or group trip.  Nevertheless, let’s get back to the question here, and allow me to assure you that India is fairly safe for women travelers.  The data from the “National Commission for Women” and “National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)” are not-so-pleasing. I don’t want to share the figures, either! However, the women-only travel groups are making it easier for every woman traveling to India for the first time or even for the 100th time.  The WOW Club, or Women on Wanderlust, and Women On Clouds Club, or WOC, are two of the most popular women-only travel groups in India. So, as Hannah goes for a girl trip with her mother in “Girls,” get ready for traveling to India for the first time!  Read Also: 8 Amazing Things To Do In Delhi For First Time Tourists Complete Guide For A Pleasant Agra Tour The Easy Way To Travel In India Top Most Expensive Hotels Of India To Enjoy And Stay Your Holidays

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 Dec 10, 2021

The tourism scenario in India is getting better. The World Economic Forum (WEF) has published the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) for 2024. It has achieved the 39th spot among 119 countries, advancing 15 spots from 2021.  India is a land that has diverse cultures and traditions and is home to several races. The region is a paradise to travelers because it abounds with green hills, lakes, snow-peaked mountains, lagoons, backwaters, and palm-fringed beaches, not leaving behind the palaces and forts, among other historical monuments. There is absolutely no shortage of luxury hotels in India, be it ultra-chic or classy or heritage properties. Guests are pampered with the finest of hospitality at these lavish establishments.  You can find these properties in abundance in central and chief urban cities and metropolitan areas, cultural hubs, and other IT centers and industrial regions of the country. Here is the list of ten top hotels in India. Top 10 Hotels in India: Luxury hotels in India have the best modern-world amenities and a touch of Indian tradition. Further, many heritage properties are transformed into luxury hotels and resorts, and they tell tales of the past. Here, we are to be your entourage in finding the most luxurious experiences in Indian hotels. 1. The Imperial The magnificent hotel has been there since 1931.it is home and housing to the valuable, priceless, and treasured collection of artwork and art collection. The hotel also houses a swimming pool, meeting facilities, a fitness center, banquet, and award-winning restaurants.it has 229 guest rooms that are well furnished, spacious, decorated, and comfortable with spectacular, panoramic, great views, vistas, and breath-taking monuments. It is just a few steps from the new Delphi famous shopping center and major attractions. Thus, it ranked among the best and top hotels in India. “While in India, one must visit the Taj Mahal and stay at The Imperial.”  The Spice Route restaurant and the Patiala Peg bar are at the heart of the gastronomic delight offered by The Imperial. Moreover, staying at this luxurious hotel will make you agree with what Elite Traveler says. “The Imperial remains a majestic building fulfilling its preordained purpose as Delhi’s preeminent luxury hotel.” 2. Taj Lake Palace It is among the top luxurious, renowned, and deluxe hotels that serve up a fantastic experience with that magic touch of Indian hospitality and tradition. It is located in the middle of Lake Pichola and contains first-class and first-rate amenities and facilities with readily available services to offer. More so, it has other features such as dining, boutique, business center, and hub, a pool, swimming pool, conference houses among others. Its eighty-one guest rooms are well decorated and furnished, stylishly classy, and chic with the old world classic styles and designs that make them comfier. With all these features it offers the best perfect, excellent, great break and noteworthy experience. Glitz And Glamor At Taj Lake Palace The Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur has always been associated with the world of movies and glamor. It was the shooting destination for the 1983 James Bond Movie Octopussy. Also, the Bollywood cult movie Mera Saaya was filmed at this destination. Further, the Taj Lake Palace has been the venue for many celebrity weddings. Recently, in September 2023, Raghav Chadha and Parineeti Chopra took the hospitality of the Taj Lake Palace for their wedding. Other celebrity couples to tie the knot at the Taj Lake Palace are Raveena Tandon and Anil Thadani (2004), Lee Elton and Arunoday Singh (2016) and Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmini Sahay (2017).  3. Ananda Resort The resort is mainly highly praised for its 24,000 sq. Ft. sanatorium which offers an all-embracing set menu of over 79 body and splendor dealings combining traditional Ayurveda therapies with present-day Horse opera bath practices. Also, at the backdrop of the resort is the Peaceful river that meanders the lush and graceful Sal forests, these create a scenery so tranquil and therapeutic. It lies in the foothills of the Himalayas close to the calming cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh 4. Wild Flower Hall, Shimla https://www.instagram.com/p/C_k2blHNIP0/ It was the former residence of Lord Kitchener before being converted into a grand deluxe resort.it is also huddled comfortably in the foothills of the Himalayan range. The hotel offers many facilities such as a variety of sports for adventure lovers, holistic treatments in spas based on Ayurveda, western traditions, and oriental. Also, it has original artwork to recreate the splendor of the bygone era, wooden paneling, and folkloric furnishings. The eye-catching scenery makes this hotel most treasured. 5. The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur https://www.instagram.com/p/C_S1WGcyCjD/ The hotel transports you into the era of India's legendary Rajputs. The property is no less than a fortress with a beautiful grand structural design and luxurious holiday home, beautiful gardens, fountains, pools, and private verandah.it offers incredible seventy-one luxury rooms, private pools, and large four-poster beds and sunken marble baths, and private courtyards that provide a sense of harmony and peace. Other than lavish housing, the hotel also offers local activities such as elephant ride, exploration expeditions of forts, festivals, bazaars, and palaces to provide you the best preview of this famous rosy city. 6. Rambagh Palace a TAJ Hotel It is located in the cultural hub of Jaipur and has been playing host to sovereigns and the best.it is a classy build, and it’s splendidly traditional. The hotel's many first-class conveniences include a handful of fine restaurants, a business center, an outdoor and indoor pool, 90 guest rooms, and suites, all of which treat its patrons like royals, with good-looking cores and comfy amenities 7. The Oberoi Amarvilas https://www.instagram.com/p/C7JnCfHN-zl/?hl=en The first-class hotel is delightfully impressive and comfy with hints of old-style décor and 105 comfortable guest rooms and suites. The terrace gardens offer a mesmerizing view of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Together with a perfect mix of Moorish and Moghul architectural features, the hotel brings back the Mughal era feel. More so, this hotel offers meeting facilities, fine on-site dining, in a house, on location, gourmet dining, and epicurean food, fitness facilities, renowned, world-class, and first-rate spa. 8. Maurya Sheraton, New Delhi https://www.instagram.com/p/C7MO7QqrvXi/ The hotel is located at a very convenient distance from the Delhi International Airport as well as the city's principal shopping district giving it a head-on advantage. It has 440 rooms, including nearly 30 delightfully deliberate suites that are available in a bunch of categories. The hotel is particularly renowned for its unique catering services. The hotel is proficient at organizing a variety of events, from state dinners for world leaders to commercial gala dinners. 9. The Taj Mahal, Mumbai It is one of the top hotels in India due to its central location. It lies at the gateway of India’s financial hub and closes to the business districts. Also, the hotel has up to 565 rooms including 46 suites that are very decorated and attractive. The Taj Mahal hotel is sea facing and has one of Mumbai’s iconic landmarks that are a center of attraction. Some of the hotel's business services include fully networked computers, translation and interpretation services, and secretarial services. The Taj Mahal, Mumbai is an important destination for dark tourism in India today. In 2008, the hotel endured a terrorist attack from 26th to 29th November.  So, along with being a luxurious accommodation, The Taj Mahal, Mumbai, is also a reminder of the fight against terrorism and attacks on humanity. 10. Leela Kempinski, Goa It's a deluxe five-star property that lies in an area over 75 acres is known for its wonderful construction style. It is mainly best for those who desire to pamper their senses with lavish comfort. This hotel is blown up with lush landscaped gardens and glittering lagoons. A state of the art business center, and a rejuvenating spa to take care of all your business endeavors and indulge your nerves respectively.  Also, it has a total of 185 suites and rooms that are well furnished with different kinds of amenities.  That makes it the most discerning and favorite among visitors. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: Who is the richest hotel owner in India? A: Vikas Oberoi is one of the top among the 100 richest people in India, having a net worth of 2 billion, which makes him the richest hotelier in the world. He owns Westin Hotel in Mumbai and is about to open the first Ritz Carlton in Mumbai.  Q2: What are the greatest hotel in India? A: There are plenty of great hotels all over India such as  Umaid Bhavan Palace Jodhpur. The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai.  Ananda In The Himalayas.  Taj Lake Palace In Udaipur. Q3: Do hotels make good money? A: A hotel Owner makes 40,000 to 60,000 dollars per year. By calculating we have estimated that hotel owners can make upto 49,000 dollars to 74,000 dollars per year.  Conclusion All the hotels stated above are among the top hotels in India, and their rates vary from each other. However, being a wise Internet user, you will always be interested in knowing the best possible deals. This will allow you to get discounts and cashback. Read Also: The Easy Way To Travel In India Best Places For River Rafting In India 10 Best Places For Honeymoon In India 10 Travel Tips For Singles Who Want To Journey Solo This Valentine’s Day