Rendezvous with Turkey

Turkey settles astride two continents, Asia and Europe, with four different seas washing its shores. The geographical location of Turkey simply showers upon it, a varied climate and immense natural beauty. With its long and tumultuous history, the culture of Turkey is a blend of gracious Muslim traditions with modern sensibilities.

Heritage

Turkey, the birthplace of great rulers and civilizations, was consistently in the crosshairs of invaders from east and west. Each and every culture that marched across this land has left behind a magnificent heritage.

Ephesus, one of the best preserved classical cities in eastern Mediterranean, is definitely a must-see. Experience the Roman lifestyle when here. Then, Pergamum (modern Bergama) was once a major Roman city will again introduce you to different facets of Roman times. The friendly feel, splendid attractions and its laid-back attitude are perfect for independent travellers. And how can you resist a visit to Troy, city to which the royal Greek beauty, Helen, was abducted?

Istanbul, the net, cultural and enchanting capital city is easy to explore on foot. Pay a visit to Topkapi Palace for glimpse into the wondrous Ottoman Empire. Then, the view of Golden Horn estuary is simply priceless! The Aya Sofya and magnificent Blue Mosque are a must-visit for all culture vultures.

Nature

The beautiful Turkey is richly bestowed with natural wonders; the whole credit goes to the unique geography of the region. Cappadocia in central Turkey is famous for its unique landscape, formed by the eruptions from an extinct volcano, Mount Erciyes. The cave churches and underground apartments in Cappadocia are simply spectacular.

Many hot springs are also formed because of the volcanic activity. Out of them, the best known is Pamukkale, where waters beautifully come cascading down big, calcified “terraces”. On the top, Romans built a spa town named Hierapolis.
Eastern Turkey is simply opposite with rugged mountains and snow capped peak of Mount Ararat. It is the source of
This is also the source of the fabulous Tigris and Euphrates rivers.

When to Visit

Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit Turkey as climate will be perfect for sightseeing.

Turkey Food

Turkish food is a sumptuous fusion of many culinary traditions. Explore the delights of seafood, pilaf, baklava and kebabs in the cafes of Istanbul. There are plenty of options for veggies too – did you know that yogurt originated in Turkey?

Munsiyari Travel Guide

The scenic and serene Munsiyari is located at a height of 2,200 m above sea level, in the state of Uttarakhand. A destination unlike others, Munsiyari promises complete rejuvenation for the city bred soul. No rush of tourists, no must-see sights, no exclusive eateries, and no pony rides. This is what makes Munsiyari really special for travellers who come here to enjoy complete peace and comfort. A walk in the woods, an intake of fresh air, a cup of tea at some road side tea stall and views of spectacular sunset over the Panchauli peaks, if this is what you seek for, Munsiyari should be your choice of destination.

A perfect place for adventure seekers, Munsiyari offers a lot of opportunities for sport enthusiasts. Goriganga river bed is about 17 kilometres from Munsiyari and immensely popular for river rafting. Alpine slopes of Betulidhar and Khaliatop offer excellent skiing opportunities. Munsiyari also serves a perfect base for trek to glaciers like Ralam and Milam.

The distance of Munsiyari from most of the major cities of North India is the main reason for why it is still untouched and not so crowded. It is about 10hours drive from Almora and approximately 20 hours drive from Delhi. No surprise, only the serious travellers make it to Munsiyari.
Since, Munsiyari is small compare to other hill stations of the country, therefore, finding a wide choice of place to stay here is simply no. One of the popular accommodation options here is KMVN Tourist Rest House, which can be easily booked from any of the KMVN office located I various cities. Besides that, there is couple of private hotels and few guest houses in Munsiyari to accommodate tourists.

How to reach Munsiyari?

By Bus

About 550 kilometres, Delhi to Munsiyari is really a very long drive. A break journey at Vijaypur is recommended. When planning to travel by a public transport, you can take a bus from Anand Vihar ISBT to Almora and then to Munsiyari. A bus from Pithoragarh, which is about 129 kilometres from Munsiyari, can also be considered.

By Train

Kathgodam, about 319 kilometres, is the nearest rail head to Munsiyari.

Best Time to Visit Munsiyari

March to June and September to October is the best time to visit Munsiyari. Light woolens during summers and heavy woolens in winters are required.

What to do on Valentine’s Day?

Valentine's Day is a favourite among innumerous, accompanied by chocolates, flowers, romantic dinners and more, for the single traveller and even for a lot of couples; it leaves much to be desired. If you are not one of those who are scurrying around to find last minute gifts and dinner reservations, here I have covered on some alternative ideas for celebrating Valentine's Day. Here, I have put together 5 alternate activities to spend Valentine Day a bit different this year.

How about a road trip?

If you live in some metro city, it's common that most lounges, restaurants, and other places will all be packed to the full, means that there won’t be a chance of grabbing seat, unless you are thinking McDonalds. Well, it’s been really cold alright, so get on a road trip for half day or complete full day. Don’t forget to take your camera along and use it to the max.

Opt for a weekend getaway

Since this Valentine Day is falling on Monday, therefore, it’s certainly a perfect time to go on a long break. Add a day to your weekend to take a flight to some nearby destination. A lot of airlines and hotels offer exclusive Valentine Day specials for travellers.

Go outdoors

If you are like most of the other people who haven't spent much time outside this winter, which is all the more reason to go outdoors on Valentine's Day.

See a movie

Well, it doesn't have to be necessarily a romantic comedy, but you can use Valentine Day weekend to see some good flick too. Though the months of January and February aren't known for really good films, still a lot of holiday blockbusters would still be lingering around.

Exclusive time with self/beloved

If you have really nothing o do, why not try a secluded time with your beloved alone at home on Valentine's Day. While many couples are doing something entertaining and enjoyable to celebrate their love, you try something not so popular and flashy.

Packing List for a Beach Vacation

 

Beaches are an ideal choice when looking for soothing and relaxing holidays with sun, sand and cool breeze as your favourite company. However, many times we happen to make some mistakes when packing for a beach vacation. This can utterly ruin your great holiday. Go through the following checklist so that you don’t forget something important when next heading for that wonderful beach vacation.

Sunscreen Lotions: Definitely a must item in the packing list of any beach holiday, Sunscreens saves one from a lot of skin related problems. Skin cancer is the most hazardous one. Carry a sunscreen with minimum SPF 15 and more.

Sunglasses: A good pair of sunglasses is a must if you want to have a safe beach holiday. Hence, you must definitely carry good brand sunglasses which will save your eyes from harmful sun rays during noon time.

Swim Suit: Going on a beach vacation without a beach holiday is certainly a sign of foolishness. Each person must carry minimum of 2 suits so that one is always dry.

Clothes: Your holiday wardrobe must include all those clothes that match your holiday destination. For example, when going to Goa beach holidays, you must carry clothes that match weather out there.

Gear: Water sports lovers must not forget to carry beach related gears when going on a Goa holidays. Carrying surf board or skiing equipments can add fun factor to your holiday.

Camera: Well, camera is always a must when heading for any kind of holidaying. Just like other theme holidays, beach holidays also give a great chance to click memories amongst lovely backdrops. The first sunrise rays, sunsets, palm fringed beaches and spectacular pink skies are worth capturing and taking back home.

Toiletries: Never miss the important toiletries. Though a lot of them available at all places, still carrying the prime ones can save you from last minute run around. Keeping a face wash, toothbrushes, face cream, etc in your luggage is wise step.

First aid:  A really important thing which must be kept in all kind of travel. Especially on a beach holiday, it is necessary to have the first aid close by.

A very important item that you must include in your list is PATIENCE. Patience helps you face any difficult or urgency situation with a sound mind. Being calm and relaxed will make your holiday a wonderful one. Have a great trip!

Best Waterfalls in India

The waterfalls of India are fabulous as anywhere else in the world and some even more so. These natural spectacles can be found all over India and at all times of the year. However, if you want to see them in their best times, you must head to Ghats in the south during monsoons.

The abundant rainfall gives births to thousands of thunderous and magical waterfalls. Here, I have compiled some of the Best Waterfalls in India”, but get ready to see thousands of them.

What I like most about Waterfalls?

Well, who knows...? Perhaps it has some link ups with power of nature, the gravity thing, but it is certainly the powerful. Whatever is the reason, still thousands and thousands of people travel to see them each year. Truly, they are nature’s finest miracles.

Hogenakkal Waterfall

A spectacular series of waterfalls in India, it is located in the state of Tamil Nadu. The photo below gives a glimpse of stunningly beautiful rainbow. The complex of waterfalls in the middle river Kaveri all gears up to create a breathtaking view.

Abby Falls

Deep down in the Western Ghats of Karnataka nestles this beautiful waterfall with a lovely pool at its bottom for swimming lovers! It’s very much near to this small town Madikeri.

Kiliyur Waterfalls

Once again my favourite is another jewel of the south India, the Kilyur Falls. The waterfalls serve as a run of from the River Yercand and then proceed to drop 300 ft. To visit the falls, you have to make your way through Shervaoyan hill range, Tamil Nadu.

Savdav Waterfall

Savdav is another jewel in the world of waterfalls. The incredibly beautiful waterfall is at its best from June end to early September, which is ultimately the best time to see it too.

Koli Hills Waterfall

The Koli hills lies in Eastern Ghats and are beautiful all throughout the year.

Koli Hills waterfall is another spectacular waterfall of India and neatly settled on a magnificent valley close to the town of Salem.

Kumbalangi

Until five minutes ago, I was just passing my time on the internet – just reading some interesting travelogues- when suddenly an idea to phrase my words about this small hamlet named Kumbalangi situated on the outskirts of Cochin came to me. Many of my blog readers must have googled the name of the place by now and read up few facts about the destination. Well, without taking much time or confusing you in my own thoughts, here is some general description about the place by a person who loves to travel and thhen write about it at some point of  time (actually when he gets time).

As already told, Kumbalangi is a beautiful village situated on the outskirts of Cochin. But, besides being a beautiful destination, it’s also product packaged by Incredible India –UNDP project with a motto to make it popular as a Model Tourism Village for tourists. Now, you must be thinking, what does that mean? Well, nothing according to me, it’s just another marketing jargon.

Covering an area of 16 square kilometres, with a population of about 35,000, Kumbalangi is divided into Anjilithara, Kumbalangi and Kallanchery sectors. Malayalam is the spoke language here. Vast stretches of tranquil backwaters, perfect setting for country boat cruising, crab farming, prawn cultures and indigenous fishing, all this is a part of Kumbalangi village.

Kumbalangi is ever ready to lure tourists with its natural beauties and it specialties of a unique village life. Friendly and warm village folks – fishermen, boatmen and farmers- are ever ready to take travellers to the sea and paddy fields. In the evening times, travellers can experience pleasant ambience by walking along the mangroves in the smooth freshness of the cool breeze.

Reaching Kumbalangi

By Road

Since Kumbalangi is very near to Cochin City, therefore, reaching it is never a problem. Huge number of buses, both KSRTC and private ones, ply regularly towards Kumbalangi. Private bus service can be availed from Ernakulam in every 15-20 minutes.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is at Ernakulam, about 25 kilometres from Kumbalangi.

By Air

International Air Port at Nedumbassery, near Aluva, is about 40 kilometres from Kumbalangi, Kochi.

Roopkund Lake Trek

Roopkund trek is more than just a trip. This high altitude Himalayan trek is truly a lifetime experience. Here, you’ll be welcomed by some of the most beautiful views of Mother Nature which very few lucky people witness in their lives.

Here, you also get to witness various shades of nature, which can astonish any human. For many of us, each and every trek in the Himalayas in introduces us a whole set of new things that can be a life changing event every time.

Roopkund Lake is best under the shades of yellow sun when it sparkles a lot.

Birds, insects and lovely flowers celebrate the departure of dark clouds and sing welcome songs in respect of the rich new sky. Animals like mountain goats and mountain deer can all be seen in herds especially near to fresh filled waterholes.

The Roopkund Lake trek encloses in itself amazingly beautiful landscapes, serene ponds and some of the largest meadows of Garhwal. Human skeletons can be easily seen lying at the lake’s bottom during autumn season. Plus, the sight of Trishul and Nandaghunti peaks is worth seeing when on an adventurous Roopkund Lake Trek.

                                                                                                                       

Commonly called as ‘Mystery Lake’, Roopkund Lake is located at an altitude of 5029 metres and nestles between Nanda Ghunti (6310 metres) and Trishul peak (7100 metres).  It is named as Mystery Lake because some 30 years ago, nearly six hundred year old skeletons of human and horses were discovered here a renowned anthropologist D N Majumdar.

As per scientists, all these skeletons are either of the pilgrims who went to pilgrim from Rajat Yatra to Homekund, or are the remains of army of General Zorawar Singh who along with his army made a frivolous attempt to conquer the nation of Tibet, but wasn’t successful because of weather. The beautiful and mysterious lake attracts innumerous travellers from all around the world every year.  

The Roopkund Lake Trek originates from Mandoli and completes at Ghat near Nand Prayag.

Best Times to Trek: April to June and September to October end.

           

Cherrapunji- A land of incessant rains

North East India is a land of natural treasures. “Mother Nature” has blessed this region with immense natural beauties that can beckon you whole of your life.

Blue mountains, rocky hills, verdant valleys, lush green canopies, untamed gushing rivers, diverse flora and fauna are part and parcel of this region. Every single bit of this region is showered with natural wealth that can behold your attention at the very first sight. One such breathtaking destination is Cherrapunji.

Situated in the Meghalaya state of North east India, Cherrapunji has been declared as the “wettest place on earth” by the popular Guinness Book of World Records. A short drive of about 60 kilometres from Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, will take you to entirely new ambiance.

A place to cherish the ever-lasting beauties of nature, Cherrapunji travel is simply a must-experience. Cherrapunji is the only place in the whole world where monsoon can be enjoyed all round the year.

Incessant rainfalls, varying from light to medium to even light, there’s not even a single month without rain here. Rainfall here is measured in feet not in millimeters.

Paradise for botanists, Cherrapunji is a place that enfolds huge range of flora and fauna within its lap. Lush green scenery is not a common scenario in Cherrapunji as it assumed to be. Instead, colourful and rare ferns, orchids, moss plants and dense forests can all be seen here. Orange and pineapple orchards are a common sight here. Oranges of Cherrapunji are considered as the forefathers of the famous Nagpuri oranges.

Nearby area of Cherrapunji is also embellished with some splendid natural beauty for instance village of Mawsynram, which has recently acquired the title of the heaviest rainfall record. Few kilometers away from Cherrapunji is this spectacular cascading 1,035 ft high Mawsmai Falls. It is the fourth highest water falls in India and simply must-see.

The sad part is that this pristine town of Meghalaya is losing all its glory and charm due to pollution and deforestation. It’s high time and we should take some sincere steps to protect this gem of North east India.