Monday 18 March 2013

Tourism Hyderabad and Goa – Have a Little Fun

Hyderabad, the city of Nizams has always been an important commercial place in south India. Way before it was the trading center for pearls and diamonds, but now it is also a hub of BPO’s, MNC’s and IT firms. Backed by a strong history Hyderabad is a splendid city and home to several monuments, museums, gardens, etc. Also known for its delectable biryani, which is quite popular amongst foodies touring Hyderabad. The rise of world-class institutions, Tollywood, a fine airport with a stream of designer labels and luxury hotel chains, have all contributed to the existing charm of Hyderabad tourism. Thankfully, the old gems of the city – delectable Nawabi cuisine, the Islamic culture and art, the thriving Charminar area, a brilliant museum – are still accessible. Tourism Hyderabad is known for its fantastic places and attractions such as the Charminar, Chowmahalla Palace, Mecca Masjid, the Buddha Statue, the Nizam’s Museum, the Ramoji Film City and the various art galleries.

A tropical paradise, surrounded by beaches, the Arabian Sea waters, coconut palms, cool breeze, lots of sun and cheap booze, it doesn’t get any better for a holiday in Indian than Goa. This holiday destination is a global favorite! The exotic beaches and the most delicious and fresh seafood are a few things, which make the tourism in Goa so special! The peak season is between October and February, which is when the temperature is the most ideal to enjoy a holiday here. There are many tourist places in Goa – while the North side more alive and a favourite amongst the youth , South Goa on the other hand is more peaceful and has a lot of churches and other architectural buildings that you can visit.

Head to Goa for a laid back vacation or to Hyderabad for a gastronomical tour – you’ll have a fun time at both these cities.

Thursday 14 March 2013

A Break to Pune and Mysore

Mysore is a lovely city in the state of Karnataka and is located only about 140km away from the famous Bangalore city. The town has always captured people with its temples, the quiet charm, lovely palaces, rich heritage, fabulous gardens, imposing buildings and broad avenues.

It’s also called the 'City Of Palaces' and the Chamundi hills are one of the most loved spots here. You can shop for incense sticks, silk and sandalwood in Mysore, also the place has a lot of handicraft stores and shops where you can pick up some locally made interesting articles. The St. Philomena's Church, Brindavan Gardens, The Tipu Sultan’s Palace etc. are an important part of the Mysore tourism. Savor some Mysore pak and get a taste of the local Karnataka cuisine at a local restaurant. Most of the coffee in India comes from Mysore, so while you are in the city do not forget to try some filter coffee and get some packs back home as well.

Pune in Maharashtra is a young, exciting and a promising city. Educational institutions, IT firms, heavy industries, stud farms and BPO’s practically make Pune! Historical monuments, gardens, temples and museums are places that you can visit. The Omkareshwar Temple, Aga Khan's Palace, Shinde's Chhatri and Museum of Arthropod are an important part of the Pune tourism. The ever popular still is the Osho Commune International is a meditation centre that was set up by Osho Rajneesh. A few must local food try-outs are the Puran Poli, Pav Bhaji, Pithla, Chaat and the famous Misal Pav – these are popular local street side snacks! Other fantastic sites here include the Saras Baug, the Pataleshwar Cave Temple and the Kasturba Samadhi.

Monday 11 March 2013

An enthralling glimpse into Ahmedabad and Puri

Think about a kaleidoscopic medley of vibrant colours, Dandiya dance, kite festival, incredible variety of food, temples, mosques, Gandhi, the best of management education - that’s Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat.

Ahmedabad tourism is no less fascinating. A city that is steeped in history, dating back to the 15th century, Ahmedabad saw the reigns of the Sultanate dynasty, the Marathas, Mughals and British in succession, each leaving indelible influences on it.

As with most other Indian cities, mandirs and masjids hold prominence, be it for spiritual or architectural visits. The Akshardham, Hathee Singh and Swaminarayan temples, Jama Masjid, Rani Roopmati and Sidi Sayed mosques are notable examples. For the nature inclined, the Kankaria or Vastrapur lakes and Pirmal gardens prove enthralling. Ahmedabad is a children’s paradise, with a host of amusement parks, water parks and zoo dotting the landscape. The latest attraction is a snow park!

On the opposite coast of India, lies Odisha, earlier known as Orissa. And one of the foremost attractions of this state is the Puri tourism. Counted amongst the ‘Char Dhams’ Puri is one of the holiest spots in India. The Jagannath Puri temple is the focal point of this town; the annual rath yatra attracting millions from all over India, every year. Jagannath, a form of Vishnu is worshipped here along with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra.

What’s unusual about this temple is the main idol itself. Here the idol of Jagannath is a carved and decorated wooden stump with large round eyes and with stumps as hands, with the conspicuous absence of any legs.

East or west, there’s something amazing for every tourist.



A trip through Mumbai and Jammu

India is a land of amazing diversity, be it in terms of people, culture, food, landscape or weather…the list is endless. Take for instance, the prime city or financial capital, Mumbai. Mumbai is the Manhattan of India, with its glitzy highrises and cosmopolitan culture. The hub of Bollywood, no tour of Mumbai is complete without a visit to Film City, or a drive around to see film stars’ homes. Imposing architecture of the Gateway of India, ChurchGate station and the Flora fountain stand alongside mega shopping malls. Religious edifices make their own mark, be it the Haji Ali situated in the Arabian Sea, the beautiful Birla Mandir, the Mount Mary church or the Fire Temple. The galore of museums, art galleries and theatres makes it a culture junkys’ paradise. Mumbai Tourism is a world to itself, one that cannot be missed.

For a more sedate, but an equally exciting experience, try Jammu Tourism. Home to one of the greatest pilgrimage sites, the Vaishno Devi temple, Jammu is known as a land of temples. The winter capital of J&K, Jammu is the gateway to the more well-known Kashmir, by road and train. Jammu is the takeoff point to numerous hill stations such as Patnitop, Kud, Sanasar and Surinsar, each more breathtakingly scenic than the other. Jammu is also home to various adventure sport spots. Trekking and camping are extremely popular with numerous professional companies offering packages. One can attempt paragliding in Sanasar or take skiing lessons in Patnitop.

Jammu or Mumbai are both spectacular in their own ways. Take your pick.