Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Most Famous Festivals for Travelers in India, Nepal and Bhutan Celebrated In March


Festivals are a way to celebrate the unique cultural aspects of any place. They tell us about the way of living of the people belonging to a particular country and also bring us closer to the vivaciousness of the age old rituals practiced in that place. If you wish to get an insight into the amazing cultural diversity stored the Himalayan regions, a tour to India, Nepal and Bhutan often proves to be a profound one as one gets to witness the unadulterated beauty of these places in its brightest form in the local festivals. These three countries pack in a wealth of traditions curate over thousands of years which are beautifully portrayed in their famous festival tours. Let us take a look at some popular festivals in India, Nepal and Bhutan you must not miss if you plan to travel to these regions in the month of March.

Braj Holi Festival


Festival Date: 20th March - 21st March, 2019

The world famous festival of colors, Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm all over India. Holi festival in Braj in Bharatpur district in Rajasthan is known for its grand celebrations which start a couple of days before the actual day. The venue of this festival is Deeg Palace which comes alive with colors a few days preceding the festival. The most striking part of the festival is the colorful fountains inside the palace which add a touch of exclusivity to the elaborate celebrations.

International Yoga Festival

Image @ parmarth.org
Festival Date: 1st March - 7th March, 2019

The International Yoga festival in the holy city of Rishikesh is the perfect opportunity to learn more about this ancient healing technique. The festival is organized at Parmarth Niketan Ashram where noted yoga scholars and masters from India and abroad come together to build awareness about Yoga among the commoners. The festival throws light on the different yoga postures ranging from Kundalini Yoga, Vindasana Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Iyengar Yoga and Bhakti Yoga through a course of lectures and yoga sessions running upto 70 hours. The event also highlights the role of sattvic food, mantras and devotional music in achieving complete physical and mental well being.

Also Read: Join International Yoga Festival 2019 Rishikesh Start From 1st March

Hola Mohalla Festival

Image @ flickr/trighatia
Festival Date: 22nd March - 24th March, 2019

This exuberant festival belonging to the state of Punjab is a joyous celebration of colors, music, culture, food and crafts that portray a rare cheerfulness, the very characteristic of the people of Punjab. Hola Mohalla is a three day festival celebrated in Anandpur Sahib to fine tune the armory skills of Sikh men through a display of mock battles. The Hola Mohalla festival also features sprinkling of colors which turns the location into a vibrant landscape. The nihangs dressed in their colorful robes take away most of the attention during the fair. The matchless service of local Sikhs who willingly participate in preparing langars at the camps reveals the culture of generosity which is a core element of Sikh religion.
Shigmo Festival


Festival Date: 21st March, 2019

If you're planning a trip to Goa in the month of March, be prepared to witness the Shigmo festival celebrated by the Konkans. The festival closely resembles the holi festival celebrated all over India as it marks the arrival of spring season. Shigmo festival gives a glimpse of the Konkan music and dance displayed in the parades on the streets of Goa in the evening. People dressed in colorful costumes holding flags participate in the parade with the beating of drums and other folk musical instruments. The festival kicks off several days before the Holi festival and lends a cheerful vibe to the streets of Goa at the beginning of spring season.

Also Read: Holi – The most Colorful Festival of the World

Gyalpo Losar

Image @ sherpaadventuregear.com
Festival Date: 7th March, 2019

Gyalpo Losar is a highly revered festival of Nepal that marks the Tibetan New Year. The festival starts in the first week of March and the festivities continue till about two weeks. The first three days, however, are considered the most important. Gyalpo losar is celebrated with great vigour specifically by the sherpas, Tamang and bhutia Tibetans. Each of these communities have developed a unique way of celebrating the festival. Houses are cleaned and decorated and special dishes are made. Many rituals are performed in the monasteries in Nepal including a special enactment of fight between the king and the deer.

Pokhara Holi Festival

Image @ your-photography.com
Festival Date: 20th March - 21st March, 2019

Holi festival is also celebrated by the Hindu community in Nepal. If you want to experience the festival in all its glory in Nepal, head straight to Pokhara. The city wears a garb of fun and excitement with people dancing and playing crazily with colors. In the week long festivities, the first day of the festival is observed by burning a tall wooden pole around which Nepali women dressed in saris gather together and pray. On the second day a bonfire is lit which denotes the burning of Holika. The remaining days spent frolicking on the streets playing with colors.

Paro Tshechu Festival



Festival Date: 17th March - 21st March, 2019

Renowned as one of the most elaborate festivals of Bhutan, Paro Tshechu is a weeklong event that kicks off with a couple of masked dance performances which bring out the rich cultural tapestry of Bhutan. The festival is celebrated to honour Guru Rimpoche, who introduced Buddhist religion in Bhutan. The monks and other people carry out special ceremonies to mark the occasion. On the final day of the Paro Tshechu festival, a huge thangka is put on display to let the people receive the blessings.

Gomphu Festival

Image @ wildearthexpeditions.com
Festival Date: 14th March - 16th March, 2019

An illustrious festival observed in Gomphu Kora region in Bhutan, Gomphu festival celebrates the victory of good over evil. People dressed in traditional attires actively participate in the festivities that run upto three days. The festival depicts the rich culture of Bhutanese in the various rituals and ceremonies that take place during these three days. People belong to drakpa tribe in Arunachal Pradesh travel for days on foot under extreme conditions to attend the festival. Plan with best travel company to enjoy the Gomphu Kora festival that is considered an excellent opportunity for the locals to reconnect with their past.

Read More:

Wednesday, October 3, 2018

Top 10 Picnics Spots Near Delhi for One Day Trip

Picnics are the best way to unwind and spend some cherishing moments with your friends and loved ones. It brings us closer to nature and helps us escape the boredom that sets in as a result of a gruelling work life. In Delhi, there are innumerable options for a day picnic as the place is located just a few hours drive away from all major tourist attractions. So, if you're yearning to go on a day trip with your buddies or family this weekend but have not yet zeroed in on the destination, take a look at these picnic sites near Delhi for a fun-filled day tour.

Botanix Nature Resort


The nearest place to travel to Delhi by hire a Car for a day trip  is Botanix Nature resort situated on the edge of beautiful Damdama Lake. With a host of gardens and water bodies dotting its premises, this nature park lets you de-stress and rejuvenate amidst its pristine environment. Located at a distance of 45 kilometers from Delhi, Botanix Nature resort offers soul-stirring sights of the Aravalli Mountains with lots of bird’s and butterflies flying in the gardens.

Also Read: Best Car Rental Service Provider In India

Sohna


Sohna is a scenic town located at a distance of 53 kilometers away from Delhi. Lying on the foothills of Aravalli Mountains in Haryana, the town is a popular retreat for tourists who want to escape the city chaos as it offers a relaxing experience with its natural surroundings. This town is famous for its natural hot springs which draw a lot of people every week.

Pratapgarh Farms


If the village life delights you, Pratapgarh farm is the best place to rejoice in the company of camels, goats and other animals who welcome you the moment you enter this rustic village resort. Situated at 77 kilometers away from Delhi, the farms boast of the spectacular village experience it offers along with goats and chickens to enliven the atmosphere. Be ready to taste the organic Punjabi cuisine served to you during your stay which will surely win your hearts.
Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary


Lying roughly 48 km away from Delhi, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is the nearest spot for nature lovers, birdwatchers and photographers for short picnics and day visits. The park is best visited in winters as you can spot many migratory birds here. In summers, the sanctuary offers respite from the scorching heat. Being the best bird sanctuary in Delhi, the place is now recognized as a national park.

Kingdom of Dreams


Kingdom of dreams is a perfect place to know about Indian culture, cuisine, art, music and dance forms in an entertaining way. The place is famous for its entertaining shows performed by top artists. With a large auditorium and several eating joints within the premises, Kingdom of dreams is a must visit attraction for picnics or short trips. Situated at a distance of just 38 kilometers from Delhi, any car hire in Delhi can help you reach this place in an hour.
Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary


For anyone who wants to get a slice of Indian wildlife while in Delhi, Asola Bhatti wildlife sanctuary is the best place to spot birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles housed in the forests around Delhi. The sanctuary was built on a mining site located 26 kilometers away from Delhi International airport and has a great contribution in purifying Delhi air. The sanctuary has many pits which get filled with rainwater and turn into ponds and lakes.

Also Read: Wildlife Jungle Safari Tour Operator In India

Old Fort Lake


Old Fort Lake near Delhi is an enchanting destination for picnics. Tourists can enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the hill and Purana Qila by taking a boat ride. This stunning water body lies 8 kilometers away from Karol Bagh in Delhi and can be reached within a few minutes from all major stations in Delhi.

Camp Wild Dhauj


An ultimate spot for adventure lovers, Camp wild dhauj is located 38 kilometers away from SSN Marg in Delhi which makes it an ideal one day retreat for kids and adults. The place is known for its majestic hills and mountains where you can try your hand at rock climbing, rappelling, Ziplining and camel safaris. The place offers the tented stay to travelers who get to experience a rustic life away from the city humdrum.
Adventure Island


A dream picnic destination, Adventure Island is a renowned fun park where people of all ages come to enjoy the rides and other fun-filled activities like stunt shows and musicals. The place offers respite from the summer heat with its water park. Lying at a distance of 18 kilometers away from Delhi Railway station, Adventure Island is a prime tourist attraction for kids in Delhi.

Peacock Lake



Peacock Lake is a prominent attraction located in Faridabad about 8 kilometers away from Delhi. The lake is also known as Surajkund Lake and is shaped like a peacock. The serene atmosphere around this lake offers a nice break from the maddening city life. This place is also famous for the annual Surajkund Mela which attracts thousands of visitors.

Read More:

Thursday, August 9, 2018

Top Adventure Attractions in Ladakh for a Memorable Tour


The idea of visiting a land away from the stressful city life excites many travelers. Adventure tours turn out to be an excellent way for such travelers to escape their boring lives. Known as the land of mountain passes, Ladakh offer endless opportunities for adventure freaks to get the adrenalin flowing by exploring various adventure activities in this beautiful valley.

This place abounds with natural beauty which is preserved in its original form with no trace of western influences. The picture perfect lakes, mountains and valleys of Ladakh are abuzz with opportunities for adventure. If you're planning to book Ladakh tour packages to try your hand at adventurous activities, here is a checklist of options should explore on your tour to this magical land.

Biking



Driving a motorbike on the rocky roads and terrains of Ladakh would be a perfect way to catch glimpses of beautiful mountains and lakes of Ladakh. If you like to explore the vegetation and birds in your Ladakh tour, biking is the best way to get the real feel of this mountain valley. What makes your biking tour interesting in this place is its high altitude. Driving your way down the road in Khardungla pass would be a cherishing experience for adventure lovers. This snow covered region is listed among the highest motorable roads in the world.


Trekking



Trekking features as the rated activities in Leh-Ladakh adventure tours. It attracts trekking enthusiasts from around the world to Ladakh. This place is buzzing with countless trekking routes around its mountains. Nubra valley, Zanskar River, Tso moriri and Stok Kangri are some of the popular routes to go on a trek. The chadar trek around the frozen Zanskar River is the most sought after trek but is accessible only on certain times from April to October which is the best time to go for trekking in Ladakh.

Camel Safari



The cold desert in Ladakh is a popular destination to go on camel safaris. Camels belonging to this region have two humps and are still used as a means of transportation in the higher reaches of Ladakh. The best spot for camel safari is in the remote Hundar village in pictursque Nubra valley. The two hour long ride takes you to Diskit where tourists can opt to stay in the tents with village people. You can ask any tour operator in India to include this activity in your trip to Ladakh.


Jeep Safari



Those who wish to travel in groups can opt for jeep safaris to view the natural scenery of Ladakh. Pangong Lake, Nubra valley and Khardungla pass are the prominant destinations for jeep safari in Ladakh. You will get to witness soul stirring views of Pangong Lake along with a chance to mingle with rural people belonging to the villages in scenic Nubra Valley. The snow clad Khardungla pass offers amazing views of the glaciers and lakes in Ladakh.

Rafting



Rafting on the different routes of Zanskar River is packed with thrill and excitement for adventure lovers. This river sets close to the scenic Zanskar valley. The river meets with the Indus River which serves excellent opportunities for rafters along its various routes. It offers spectacular views of the mountains and terrains lying close to the river. The months July. August and September are the best times to do rafting in Zanskar River as it remains frozen in the winter months.


Skiing



The high altitude of the peaks and mountains of Ladakh makes it an ideal destination for ski lovers. The Khardungla range gets covered in a thick coat of snow during winter months to serve an ideal location for skiing and heli-skiing in this region. Each year skiing enthusiasts from around the world gather here to ski on the snow clad slopes of mountains of Ladakh.


Related Post:

Monday, July 2, 2018

Try Something New Off-Beat on Your Next Tour to India

What comes to your mind, when you come across the word ‘off-beat’, is it mythical, quirky or bohemian. Whatever might be the word, if these terms are worthy enough to give you goosebumps then you are in the right page, as we take you to a whole new experience, which will surely give you a never before experienced in life.

Just get your backpack ready and grab your passport, State Express India is a most demanding travel agent in India all which set to take you on a journey to the exotic land of Northeast India.

Majuli, Assam: Renowned as the worlds’ largest freshwater island is a perfect example of unexplored northeast India. It’s exquisite setting amidst the mighty Brahmaputra, rich ethnicity and eloquent mask-making artistry is worth rendering you a flavour of unexplored northeast India.

Majuli, Assam

Ambubachi Mela, Assam: You must have heard about many mythical stories encompassing the land of India, but have you ever come across a festival that celebrates menstruation. Yes, you read that right, Ambubachi Mela of Kamakhya Temple, Assam celebrates four-day long fair, attracting pilgrims across the globe to celebrate the belief that Goddess Kamakhya is on her periods. The menstruating Goddess and the aura of it are both attractive and mystic at the same time.

Ambubachi Mela, Assam

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh: The sound of the innumerable bells lends a peaceful and divine ambience to the snow-capped hill station. Famous for its monasteries, Tawang is a perfect example of unexplored northeast India. Its pleasant summers and chilled winters promise you a quiet and serene holiday.

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Mawsynram, Shillong: Mawsynram has always maintained its place in our social science books as the wettest place in India and it has always lived up to its reputation. The generosity of rain god makes it extremely pristine and peaceful. Mawsynram ought to give a perfect break from the busy urban life and hence is one of the perfect examples of unexplored northeast India.

Mawsynram, Shillong

Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh: Famous for its exclusive music festival is a perfect example to make it in the list of off-beat places of India. Its picturesque landscape, rice fields, kiwi gardens and the unique Apatani tribes lend you a feel at home experiences. Its untouched and serene appeal is sure to give you a sigh of peace.

Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Mawlynnong, Meghalaya: Another bucket-list trip which is sure to give you a different picture of India as a whole. While as outsiders, you must have imagined India as a not-so-clean country, as, many people try their best to scar the reputation of the country by throwing garbage on roads but then there is this small village nestled in the heart of Meghalaya, which is ranked as Asia’s cleanest village. Mawlynnong will never cease to surprise you with its exotic living root-bridges, gurgling waterfalls and to top it all the kind and warm Khasi tribe of Meghalaya will make sure that you don’t miss your home while in Mawlynnong.

Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

The most exquisite and quirky Northeast India is home to numerous indigenous tribes with varied culture and ethnicity is sure to give a traveller, the true feeling of both peace and thrill at the same time. So, get the best India tour package for off-beat Northeast tour at affordable prices with State Express, where adventure and luxury are intermingled together.