A Luxurious Getaway: Top 5-Star Hotels And Resorts In Dubai For An Unforgettable Holiday Experience

BY  Barsha Aug 17, 2022

Weather Conditions In Himachal PradeshMAR-JUNEOCT-FEBJUL-SEP22 - 37 degree Celcius0 - 15 degree Celcius15 - 25 degree Celcius The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh varies according to your preference. The best part about going to this beautiful state is that it looks different in different seasons - so whichever season you choose, you are kinda choosing the right destination! Scroll down and find out when you can visit Himachal Pradesh and what to expect from each season! Journey To The Dev Bhoomi: Best Time To Visit Himachal Pradesh! The land of Dev Bhoomi is best known for its picturesque landscapes, godly mountains, lots of comfort food, and every other ingredient that you need for some much-needed peace! Dotted with beautiful hill stations, tourists from all around the world visit Himachal every year, and there’s no reason why you should not! The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh would be between February to June, during Summer and Spring. You could also consider visiting this beautiful state during winter between October and February to experience snowfall. As every season unfolds, Himachal Pradesh changes colors, be it spring or winter, or even Summer. It honestly depends upon how you want to see this colorful land - are you looking for the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh for honeymoon, or are you looking for the perfect time you can travel to Himachal solo? Check out the tables below for a more comprehensive understanding of the Himachali seasons. Travel SeasonsMin/Max TemperatureWeather ConditionsMarch - June22-37 °CSunny days, pleasant nightsJuly - September15-25°COccasional thunderstormsDecember - February0-15°CCold, dry The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh also depends on when you want to go - do you want to hit the Dev Bhoomi during the peak season time? Or do you want to travel when it’s off-season in Himachal?  Peak Season: March - June Shoulder Season: November - February Low Season: July - September Exploring Himachal In Summer (March To June): Temperature: 22 - 37 °C Weather: Neither too cold nor too hot Months: March - June Summer in Himachal Pradesh is a soothing affair - the cold won’t bother you by sending shivers across your spine. Instead, it’s one of those times of the year when you can enjoy the cold while sipping on a hot cup of traditional Himachali tea by the hills. You know that feeling when the air conditioner is running, and you snuggle under the blanket? That is exactly how summer nights at Himachal feel! Are you looking for answers to questions such as ‘Himachal Pradesh best time to visit?’ - you can always opt for Summer considering you hate the excessive cold and want to spend a comfy time while traveling! The weather is great, but you know this season is also known for its own share of celebrations and festivities. Locals celebrate the Doongri Fair, also known as the Hadimba Devi Fair - the purpose? To celebrate the beginning of Summer! These local festivities are characterized by vibrant colors, blooming flowers, and lots of entertainment. Another great event that celebrates Summer in Himachal is the Summer Festival, which is held at The Ridge in Shimla every year. A 10-day event, the Summer Festival is known for handicraft exhibitions, fun sports activities, and folk dance performances - pet lovers, can even enjoy a dog show! Exploring Himachal In Monsoon (July To September): Temperature: 15 - 25 °C Weather: Monsoon with incessant rain Months: July - September Monsoon in Himachal Pradesh is all about petrichor with this rain-clad hamlet looking like a ‘breath of fresh air.’  The ‘freshly bathed streets’ and the smell of rain will greet you - think about the misty hills and quaint cafés, all patiently waiting for your arrival. Enjoy the magic of monsoon at Himachal and get lost in the beauty of the hamlet. While the earthy scent and lush landscapes will be enough to stunt your senses, a series of events will prevent the dampening of your spirits. The town of Chamba, for instance, celebrates the Minjar Festival in the months of July and August - the festivities are held for seven days and are mostly marked by grand processions. Locals visit the Laxmi Narayan Temple to offer both money and sweets as a prayer for a good harvest. The rains are beautiful, and they end up breathing life into the lush greenery that Himachal has to offer. If your best time to visit Himachal Pradesh is monsoon, then you must check out Kasol - spend hours by the side of the massive Parvati river, as the rain keeps creating a rippling effect on the water surface. Exploring Himachal In Winter (December To February): Temperature: 0 - 15 °C Weather: Snowy heaven Months: December - February Himachal Pradesh is a snow-lovers paradise in winter. If you want to experience the magical aura of snowfall in Himachal, then the best time to visit in Himachal Pradesh is this time! From indulgent snowball fights with your friends or family to walk through white streets while playing fun winter sports, winter in Himachal is a gift to all travelers out there - snowclad mountains, frozen lakes, crystalline ponds, and the landscape you will remember forever. The breathtaking beauty of Khajjar Lake is something you can’t miss out on during this time. Moreover, places like Manali and Shimla celebrate the onset of winter with the Winter Carnival - the ski slopes of Solang Valley and the winter sports activities of Rohtang Range are popular tourist attractions during this season. If you want to travel to Himachal during the winter, it’s a crazy decision considering the beauty during this time. You can also pay a visit to the Winter Queen contest a sort of beauty contest held in Manali. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions related to the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh mentioned below. 1. What Are The Top Places To Go To In Himachal Pradesh? Ans: The top places to go to in Himachal Pradesh are as follows,➼ Kinnaur,➼ Kasol,➼ Malana,➼ Dharamshala,➼ Solang Valley, and➼ Kufri. 2. What Is The Best Way To Plan A Himachal Trip? The best way to plan a Himachal trip is by following the itinerary mentioned below,➼ Day 1: Delhi to Shimla.➼ Day 2: Shimla to Kufri.➼ Day 3: Shimla to Manali.➼ Day 4: Manali to Rohtang Pass.➼ Day 5: Manali to Dharamshala. 3. Which Season Is Going To Himachal Pradesh? In Himachal Pradesh, winter begins sometime in October and lasts throughout February. Since December happens to be the coldest month of the year, there are several places in Himachal Pradesh during that time experiencing snowfall. If you want to enjoy the snowfall, then you must plan a trip in winter - places such as Shimla, Narkanda, Manali, and Kufri enjoy snowfall. 4. Which Is The Most Visited Place In Himachal? The most visited places in Himachal Pradesh are as follows,➼ Shimla,➼ Manali, and➼ Dharamshala. The Mountains Are Calling…And Himachal Is Waiting! The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh can vary depending on which season you prefer. Another factor that can influence your decision is whether you want to visit Himachal when everyone else is visiting or you prefer a smaller crowd. Himachal Pradesh is a huge state in terms of tourism because there’s so much to see, explore, and enjoy!  The best time to visit Dalhousie Himachal Pradesh will vary from the best time to visit another hill station in the same state. All you need to do is pick a time when you can see more, explore more, and naturally enjoy more. In the meantime, don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on the same in the comments below. Read Also: Exploring The Unexplored: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Darjeeling? What Are The Places To Visit In Meghalaya? – Travel Guide Top 5 Best Tourist Places In Coimbatore – Travel Guide

BY  Ankita Oct 16, 2023

Pigeon Forge may be a modest town with a population of 6,500, but that doesn’t mean it lacks in any way. When it comes to shopping in particular, there are more than 300 stores spread across the town that offer gifts, handmade items, souvenirs, and a wide variety of other items. You come to Pigeon Forge, and there is no chance that you will go back empty-handed. Here are some of the best shopping tips when you are out on a spree in Pigeon Forge: Here Are Some Famous Gift Shops In Pigeon Forge While out on vacation, most people either buy gifts to take back for their loved ones or get souvenirs that can serve as a reminder of their trip. If you are looking for either of these purchases, Pigeon Forge has a plethora of gift shops that you can hit up and find the ideal items to give to almost any person, regardless of their age or gender. Here are some of the most famous local gift shops for you to explore: a. Three Bears General Store Three Bears General Store in Pigeon Forge is the ideal place to go if you want to buy something that keeps reminding you of your travels. This enormous store, which is just off the Parkway, contains whatever you can think of. Numerous products with a Smoky Mountain motif are available, including clothes, blankets, and figurines. Additionally, this business offers jewelry, snacks, accessories, and a lot more. It is by far one of the most famous Pigeon Forge gift shops to explore. b. Mountain Mile General Store Another prominent and often-visited local gift shop is the Mountain Mile General Store. Located on Teaster Lane, this shop is one that offers almost everything that you could possibly imagine as a gift. There are home décor items, magnets, buttons, Smokies-themed apparel, and a lot more besides. Whether you are looking for a birthday gift or just something to carry as memorabilia, this store has it all, making it a must-visit spot in Pigeon Forge. The Best Local Stores It’s not just Pigeon Forge, but anywhere you visit, it is important that you take a trip to some of the famous local stores. It gives you an idea of what the area is known for, what residents make and sell that is not available anywhere else in the country, as well as to get a glimpse of cultures and traditions that are upheld in the city. When talking about Pigeon Forge, some of the renowned local stores include: a. Goats On The Roof Yes, that is the actual name of a general store in Pigeon Forge, and it is exactly what the name indicates. In fact, the store is part of a larger attraction with the same name where real goats are kept on the top of the building. The location also has a mountain coaster for families to enjoy. The store has a lot of items that are related to goats, but there are local clothing, home décor, and edible items available, too. b. The Old Mill General Store The Old Mill is one of the most iconic locations in Pigeon Forge, and this store is a famous attraction within it. The 200-year-old Mill is still operational as it grinds fresh wheat and corn. You can buy a wide variety of freshly ground flours at the store. And that’s not all. You can pick up homemade pickles, jellies, and jams, all freshly produced. Then there is also the available range of toys, souvenirs, candies, and a lot more besides. Some General Shopping Tips While Traveling Shopping is naturally an essential part of every vacation. However, all that stuff you buy definitely increases your luggage, which may not be a problem if you travel to Pigeon Forge in an RV or your own car, but if you took a flight and intend to take one back, weight is something you will need to take into account. And that’s just one thing to take care of. Here are a few tips that make travel shopping significantly easier: a. Pack light There is a good probability that you will go shopping everywhere you go, whether you are traveling domestically or internationally. Since you are aware of this, it is best to bring minimal luggage. This is an important consideration if you are flying, but if you drive across the country and have room in your vehicle, you might not need to consider it. b. Browse Before You Pick There are a lot of different shops selling a wide variety of items across Pigeon Forge. At times, you may feel like buying almost everything in a store, but that’s not always practical. A great thing is that despite there being more than 300 stores, they are all located in relatively close vicinity. So, it is better to browse different places before buying anything. You can always come back to a store if you find something you like and can’t find it anywhere else. c. Be Careful With Edible Items In Pigeon Forge, the Old Mill store is not the only place where you’ll find edible items to buy. Almost every famous general store in the town offers some local delicacy that you would want to take back home. However, carrying edible items is tricky, irrespective of whether you are traveling by road or by car. Freshly ground flour, in particular, can be difficult to transport. Make sure that you get a plastic container for it, or else you run the risk of getting that white powder in various places that you’d have to clean up later on. Conclusion Pigeon Forge is a comprehensive travel destination that offers a lot in terms of entertainment and considerable shopping choices. From memorabilia to apparel, from edibles to décor products, you can find almost everything down here, but it is important not to go crazy and shop wisely. Read Also: Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers 8 Reasons To Spend Your Spring Vacation In Pigeon Forge Top Tips For A Terrific Vacation

BY  Sibashree Nov 3, 2025

I visited Luang Prabang in 2022, and the capital of the ancient Laotian kingdom was slowly recovering from the rampage of COVID-19. The misty mornings were special, with hundreds of monks walking through the narrow streets with their alms bowls.  People gather and offer fruits and rice to the monks. The monks silently accept the offerings, then quietly return to the temples.  Even today, with skyrocketing tourism numbers, Luang Prabang remains one of the most unspoiled places on earth. Buddhism and a strong belief in the power of nature have helped the city to maintain its authentic charm.  Also, the 32 Buddhist temples present in Luang Prabang today are a telltale of the history, myths, and spiritual beliefs associated with the city’s origin. In this Luang Prabang temple guide, I will talk about the top Buddhist temples to visit in Luang Prabang Laos. Of course, the Golden City Temple or Wat Xieng Thong is the most famous among them. It was built in 1560.  What Are The Top Buddhist Temples To Visit In Luang Prabang Laos?  As the mornings in Luang Prabang are special with the quietude and humility of the alms giving ceremony, the evenings are magical with the evening chants of the monks in the temples.  The sound of the chants echoes through the valley with the Mekong River passing by dreamily and the outlines of the mountains fading into the darkness.  I used to get lost in my thoughts that these temples were the sites of the coronation of many Laotian kings. Also, despite their intricate designs, they look like an extension of the ethereal natural landscape here.  Nevertheless, these are the top Buddhist temples to visit in Luang Prabang, Laos.  1. Wat Xieng Thong Also known as the “Monastery of the Golden City,” Wat Xieng Thong evokes awe. Built in 1560, it is home to the famous reclining Buddha Sanctuary or the Red Chapel.  It also stands out with its architectural excellence, including the multi-tiered roofline and beautiful mosaic work.  2. Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marek Kotlarski (@mkotlarski) Wat Mai, or the New Temple, is the largest in Luang Prabang. It looks exquisite with the gilded bas-relief panels on the façade.  Also, it is historically important as it served as the residence of the highest Lao Buddhist dignitary till 1975.  3. Wat Visounnarath (Wat Visoun) Wat Visoun has a distinctive, spherical, and unique stupa called "That Mak Mo” or the “Watermelon Stupa.” It has a rounded shape.  Also, Wat Visounnarath was founded in 1512. So, today, it is the oldest operating temple in Luang Prabang.  4. Wat Aham View this post on Instagram A post shared by Austin Bush (@bushaustin) Wat Aham is also known as the Monastery of the Open Hearted. It is located next to Wat Visoun.  Wat Aham is famous for its two ancient banyan trees on its grounds. Locals believe that these trees are home to the guardian spirits of the city.  5. Wat That Luang Locals call Wat That Luang the Monastery of the Royal Stupa. The ashes of King Sisavang Vong, who died in 1959, are present in the golden stupa in the temple grounds. Even before that, it was used to cremate many members of the royal family.  6. Wat Chom Si Located on the top of Mount Phousi, Wat Chom Si was the best temple I visited in Luang Prabang. The spiritual energy there was so high.  I don’t know whether it’s the joy of reaching the temple after a trek or the magical views of the Mekong River from the top! Everything looks and feels so magical here! 7. Wat Sop Sickharam The structure of the Wat Sop Sickharam temple, what we see today, is the renovated form of the 19th century. However, the origin of the temple goes back to the 16th century.  Its architecture is a wonderful fusion of the French Colonial Style and traditional Lao architecture.  8. Wat Pa Phai The congregational hall or the traditional Lao-style sim is the highlight of Wat Pa Phai. Furthermore, its facade is unique with exterior columns and a verandah.  It also has another name, “The Monastery of the Bamboo Forest.”  9. Wat Sene Souk Haram Wat Sene Souk Haram looks dazzling with its golden and red ornamentation. It is known as the Temple of 100,000 treasures, as it was built with 100,000 stones collected from the Mekong River in 1718.  10. Wat Nong Sikhounmuang Wat Nong Sikhounmuang has recently gone through a major renovation. It is home to one of the largest and richest pagodas in Luang Prabang.  Furthermore, you can spot it from a distance due to its vibrantly colored roof in the traditional Thai style.  11. Wat Khili View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nat & Ricky Dunn (@lifedunndifferently) The large gold Wheel of Life on the front gable of Wat Khili will be the first thing to catch your notice. Furthermore, it has low roofs and a red facade with golden columns.  It shows influence from the Xieng Khouang province and was built in 1773.  12. Wat Phon Phao Wat Phon Phao has a unique octagonal structure, and with the sunlight falling over it, it uses its golden glow to illuminate the city.  The paintings in the interior of this temple are beautiful, and they depict the Buddhist philosophy of life and death.  13. Wat Manorom Wat Manorom is home to a 6-meter-high bronze Buddha statue, which dates back to the 14th century. Apart from being a temple, it is also an important community center for the locals.  In fact, all the temples in Luang Prabang help nurture community bonding. Also, historically, it used to be the home of the largest number of monks.  14. Wat Ho Pha Bang (inside Royal Palace) The Wat Ho Pha Bang, or the Temple of the Pha Bang, houses the Phra Bang Buddha image, the palladium of Laos.  This temple is located inside the Royal Palace grounds.  15. Wat Mahathat Wat Mahathat was founded in 1548. It houses the ashes of the revered Prince Phetsarath, who declared the independence of Laos in 1945.  It also has a highly ornamented facade.  16. Wat Xieng Mouane View this post on Instagram A post shared by nrq (@nrqpapa) Wat Xieng Mouane is important for its role in promoting traditional art and culture. Furthermore, I loved the gilding and traditional woodwork in the temple.  17. Wat That Phoun Wat That Phoun is one of the most peaceful temples I have visited in Luang Prabang. Also, once you enter the temple, it’s like an art gallery with a wonderful display of paintings.  The entrance gates are adorned with serpent deities or Nagas, and the temple also functions as a cremation location.  18. Wat Long Khoun “Wat Long Khoun is where our kings once meditated. It’s quiet, sacred, and often overlooked.” - Somsack, my local guide.  This former royal meditation retreat is a wonderful example of Lao architecture in the 18th century, and it has the most illustrious Jataka murals, depicting the last lives of Lord Buddha.  19. Wat Phra Bat Tai Wat Phra Bat Tai in Luang Prabang is very similar to Prabhas Tirtha in India. Prabhas Tirtha has the footprints of Lord Krishna, and War Phra Bat Tai has a huge footprint of the Buddha.  Furthermore, its architectural style shows a wonderful fusion of Thai, Lao, and Vietnamese architectural styles.  It is also where I found it the easiest to interact with the monks and share our philosophies about life.  20. Wat Phon Heuang The traditional stenciling on the temple's ceiling instantly evoked a sense of awe. Furthermore, I saw how it is an important social area or hub for the local community. It is so because it is one of the prime locations for participating in the alms-giving ceremony.  In addition, when I visited, it had not been extensively renovated. So, it was like connecting to the past for me.  Wat Xieng Mouane: The Lesser-Known Temple Of Luang Prabang  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ruprecht Lin (@boblinize) Wat Xieng Maen is a hidden gem if I talk about the top temples to visit in Luang Prabang. It was founded in 1592.  I took a ferry across the Mekong River to reach this temple. It is a quiet escape, and it is significant as it was home to the famous Phra Bang Buddha image for a short period.  Accessibility Ratings Of The Best Temples In Luang Prabang  Check out the table below to know about the most accessible Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang.  TempleWheelchair AccessStairsQuiet ZonesWat Xieng Thong✅Minimal✅Wat Mai✅Few steps✅Wat Visoun✅Ramp available✅Wat Aham✅Flat terrain✅ Photography Tips Golden Hour: 6:00–7:00 AM and 5:00–6:30 PM. Best Angles: Capture rooflines from low angles; use temple doorways for framing. Respectful Shots: Avoid interrupting rituals or photographing monks without consent. Gear: Use a wide-angle lens for interiors and a tripod for low-light shots. Temple Etiquette & Dress Code In Luang Prabang Dress Modestly: Shoulders and knees covered. Avoid tight or revealing clothing. Remove Shoes: Always take off footwear before entering the temple interiors. Avoid Pointing Feet: Never point your feet toward Buddha statues or monks. Photography: Ask permission before photographing monks or rituals. Alms Giving: Participate respectfully in morning alms (Tak Bat) by kneeling and remaining silent. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang? Luang Prabang’s temples are open year-round, but timing enhances the experience: MonthHighlightsNovember–FebruaryCool, dry weather is ideal for walking tours.Mar–MayHot but less crowded and good for early morning visits.June–OctoberRainy season, and it stands out with its lush greenery and fewer tourists. Best Time of Day To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang  Sunrise: Wat Chom Si after a climb to Mount Phousi Midday: Wat Mai, with its shaded interiors, is the perfect late morning and afternoon refuge.  Sunset: Wat Xieng Thong is ideal for golden hour photography.  Walking Routes & Maps: Exploring The Best Temples Of Luang Prabang  Visiting all the temples in Luang Prabang is not possible in a single visit to the city. Instead, for a short trip to the city, you can follow these temple tour routes.  1. Temple Trail Route (2–3 Hours) Start at Wat Xieng Thong.  Walk to Wat Sop Sickharam.  Continue to Wat Sene.  Visit Wat Mai.  End at Wat Visoun. 2. Sunset Spiritual Loop (1 Hour) Climb Mount Phousi to Wat Chom Si. Descend to Wat Aham. Finish at Wat That Luang. Luang Prabang Temple Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang temple guide.  1. How Many Temples Are In Luang Prabang? Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has 32 operational Buddhist temples. These temples with their beautiful murals, paintings, and sculptures depicting the life and lessons of Lord Buddha, are prominent social, religious, and community centers. Furthermore, they show a wonderful fusion of Lao, Thai, and Khmer architectural styles in their architecture.  2. Can I Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang During Festivals? Yes, you can visit the temples in Luang Prabang during major festivals such as Boun Pi Mai, the Lao New Year, and Boun Khao Phansa, or the start of the Buddhist Lent. However, you have to be patient as there will be crowds, and you have to follow the etiquette. 3. Are Women Allowed To Give Alms? I found out that people taking part in the alms-giving ceremony were mostly women. However, my guide told me to follow some strict rules. You cannot touch the robes of the monks or make any physical contact with them. Also, you must kneel down before them while offering the alms.