Anytime Can Be The Best Time To Visit Goa

Goa is a paradise for those who love the leisurely life and this is the best place for a great relaxing holiday. Goa is synonymous with beach culture and the clean sandy beaches are famous across the world. One can find an entire line of activity on all of the popular beaches in Goa and there are flea markets, little restaurants run in shacks serving the best sea food and even private access to these beaches from 5 star hotels. Goa is also popular as a honeymoon destination and couples come here from all over India to spend quality time here. With its large number of beaches, Goa has many that are tucked away from the tourist crowd and are hardly crowded. Small cottages and resorts complete the romantic picture.

Goa is also gaining popularity for its adventure sporting activity and one can indulge in Para sailing, gliding, trekking, rock climbing, jet skiing, deep sea fishing and diving etc. There are qualified and trained personnel available to help out with these adventure activities and one can even join up for a short term course in any of these. Then Goa is also famous for its carnival that takes places every year till the start of the religious season of Lent, traditionally a period of 40 days of abstinence. Christmas is also a lively time to be in Goa and this is right in the middle of the peak season. Goa is blesses with warm weather throughout the year and the summer can be very hot. October to February is considered the best time to visit Goa as the weather is warm enough for the beach but not so hot that one cannot enjoy some sightseeing tours and adventure sports. This is also the time when advance bookings are important to avoid being disappointed while planning a trip to Goa.

Having said this, the monsoons too have their own particular charm and the rainfall in Goa is tropical in its volume. It can rain for days making stepping out difficult but if you intend to spend time just relaxing in the resort near the indoor pool then this is an ideal time to visit GOA. Goa has its own beauty and charm in the rains and everything is green and lush at this time. The only thing that one can’t do at this time is venture out into the sea. The best way to understand the various seasons in Goa and the activities possible at these different times is by browsing online. There are many sites with updated information on tourist activities in Goa that also have regular weather updates. This is the best way to plan a visit for GOA holiday packages that are available online one can easily get great deals as well.

Planning a holiday – It’s got to be Goa

An ideal vacation for some is the chance to just laze around and while away time in the sun, reading, sipping a few drinks or just doing nothing, while others would love the chance to sightsee and take in a new place. Many others would find the prospect of some adventure activity thrilling and still others would be looking for a romantic holiday where long walks on the beach and sunsets are part of the package. Then there are those with young families that would like a location that the kids could enjoy while the adults could relax and enjoy themselves as well. Few places can fulfill all these expectations the way Goa can. A small region in the coastal area of the Konkan, Goa is a fantastic destination with various facets, ideal for a nice holiday.

There is so much to do in this state that is famous for its beaches and the sun. While the beaches do feature prominently all over Goa and one can definitely spend an entire vacation in close proximity to the beach, there is a lot of sightseeing that is possible here. Ancient churches built by the Portuguese, bustling local markets, beautiful colonial villas, famous temples and so much more. One can easily hire bikes for day trips around Goa to explore it. The nightlife in goa and food is also well known and one can find high end pubs and restaurants with the best service or smaller beachside shacks that also have great music, ambience and food. Another aspect of a holiday in Goa is the chance to take part in adventure sports. Goa is well known for the variety of sports that are available here and one can enjoy Para gliding, jet skiing, surfing, deep sea fishing, trekking, mountain climbing, rappelling and so much more. There are qualified and professional guides available here and one can learn a new sport or even practice ones knowledge.

Cruises are another part of Goa holiday packages and one can take any of the many options available for cruises on the many rivers and even on the sea. This is an indulgence that is worth the experience and must be tried especially for those on a romantic holiday. Holidays in Goa can also be spent in good hotels that have indoor facilities like tennis courts, pools, basket ball courts etc. Spa’s are also a nice way to relax while on holiday here and many hotels will include a spa in their package offers. There is no other place as versatile as Goa is and with its rich history, traditions, warm, hospitable people and climate everyone is sure to have a good time here. Find out more about the options for holidays in Goa by browsing online and there are sites dedicated specifically to this region. A good site will be able to even offer information on the theatre in Goa, local fairs and festivals and on the best places to eat and to shop as well.

Let Kullu Manali work its magic on you

Kullu and Manali, these names are very well known as holiday and as honeymoon destinations in India. Located in the very beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh, there is a lot of promise in a holiday here and one is sure to return with wonderful memories and recharged to face ones routine life. A honeymoon in Kullu Manali is particularly popular as there are plenty of options for all kinds of budgets and time frames and, there is a lot to occupy honeymooners getting to know each other.

The views while on a honeymoon in Kullu Manali are made even more beautiful as they are seen with someone special. Watch the sunlight play on the Dhauladhar Mountains and the Pir Panjal range from a hotel that offers this great view. There are also many apple orchards in this region and a visit here when the apple blossoms are in bloom makes for a lasting memory and offers great photo opportunities. When the apples ripen one can arrange for a tour of the orchards and many owners allow guests to help in the picking as well. The apples here are very sweet and crisp and are of a very superior quality. Couples can even visit the jam and preserve making factories that are often small scale industries.

Close to the apple orchards is the lovely Naggar, home to the Roerich Art Gallery that houses impressive art and photographs. There is also a castle and beautiful local houses made out of wood here. There are adrenalin pumping options while on a honeymoon in Kullu Manali with the options in adventure sports. Choose from skiing in winter, white water rafting in the rapids depending on one’s skill levels, mountain climbing, ice skating, fishing in the crystal clear rivers etc. There are qualified guides available and trainers as well and this is something that must be experienced for those looking for adventure even while on a honeymoon. There are natural hot water springs here in Vashist that offer a relaxing experience, old buildings that date back to colonial times, Tibetan monasteries as well as shopping for local souvenirs so that there is always something to do here. The Rohtang Pass is also close by and this is a must on every honeymooner’s itinerary.

Kullu Manali tour package are a good way to plan a memorable holiday. There are options available for every possible location and one can browse online to view these. A good package for a honeymoon in Kullu Manali will take care of the travel, will offer good accommodation and will ensure that the staff is especially attentive. Many of these packages include meals and complimentary flowers and fruits along with a cake along with a special honeymoon suite to make the occasion even more special. Find the various options available online and choose one that offers to make the honeymoon in Kullu Manali even more special.

Discover a fabulous holiday in Shimla

Shimla, one of the oldest and the most popular among hill stations in India is as popular today as it was in its heyday. This was during India’s colonial past and the British officers and their families moved to the hills for the summer to escape the scorching heat of the plains. Shimla was also the summer capital of the British and a lot of administrative work was carried out here. Even today there are buildings still standing from that time, many of which are converted into government offices and holiday homes. Shimla is beautiful and there is no doubt about the scenic views that it offers. There are many hotels and resorts that are located here that command astounding views on the hills and valleys below. There are great options for walks and for treks and these are the most popular things to do in Shimla while on a relaxing holiday here.

The Mall, a landmark of Shimla is also a continuation from colonial times and was a very popular place to shop and to be seen. Even today most of the shopping in Shimla is here and tourists will find the best restaurants, bakeries, banks, novelty and souvenir shops etc here. There are so many things to do in Shimla and even while on a laidback holiday some sightseeing is important to understand the culture and history of this beautiful region. Like the Jakku temple that is supposedly built on the spot that the Lord Hanuman rested on while on his way to look for the life giving herb Sanjeevani. Shimla like many serene places has many religious sites all drawn here by the beauty and serenity on offer. The Dorje Drag Monastery showcases the best architecture forms of Tibetan Buddhism and Christ Church is the second oldest church in North India. Traditionally Shimla is well known for its woolens and one can find the best hand woven shawls and handmade sweaters in traditional colors and designs here. Shimla's wonderful climate encourages fruit orchards to bear the sweetest fruits and many of these are made in jams and various preserves. These jams, squashes and sweets are very popular and some of these are from cottage industries in the region. These are great as gifts for loved ones back home.

Sipping tea on a cold winter morning or during a shopping excursion in springtime is among the most favorite of things to do in Shimla. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary situated just 5 kms from Shimla is another nice way to spend a day in Shimla. Find the best in hotels with an old world charm or a budget hotel in the center of town by browsing online. These days one can find and book holiday packages for Shimla easily online and there is always the chance of getting great deals from these online sites as well. Find unusual things to do in Shimla while on vacation by browsing in sites exclusive to information on Shimla.

Shimla - An Evergreen Destination

Shimla is a popular hill station located in the lap of the majestic Himalayas. The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla enjoys a steady influx of tourists all through the year. People visit the city to escape the unbearable summer heat or just to enjoy the quietness and serenity of the mountains.

Shimla is easily accessible and has its own air-port as well as a rail head at Kalka, just a few miles away from the city. Buses too ply regularly on this route. One may choose the best mode of transport depending on the budget and comfort.

Unlike other destinations which are best visited during certain seasons, Shimla is one place you may visit any time of the year. Each season offers to the tourist a different side and view of the city. Depending on what you seek from your holiday, take your pick from the following seasons:

WINTER (October till February)

Shimla is best visited in winters if you wish to enjoy the snowfall and admire the white landscape all around. The temperatures drop down to as low as -2° C so it is advised to carry heavy woollens. An ideal time to spend your honeymoon in shimla and those interested in adventure sports in shimla such as skiing.

SUMMER (March to June)

The summer months are peak season in Shimla, as a number of tourists come here to get away from the harsh north summers. Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C, so it’s generally cool. It may get a little crowded at this time but one gets to enjoy the best of Shimla in this season. Open clear skies ensure that you get an unhindered view of the Himalayas. It’s also the best time for sight-seeing.

MONSOON (July to mid September)

Monsoon season is a time of excessive rains in the hills. It is not advisable to visit Shimla at this time due to the landslides that are very common in the region. However the scenic beauty of Shimla is at its peak during this time. Shimla is covered in a sheet of green as far as the eyes can see. It is almost as if the land has woken up to the call of the rains. One may visit during the early monsoon months to enjoy the slight drizzle and spectacular views of the city.

Shimla thus offers its visitors something in every season. There’s no best time to visit Shimla, visit in the winters to feel the snow, in the monsoon to soak in the rain and in summers to feel cool. And the panoramic views...well those come free with every season!

SHIMLA: Best way to reach there

Shimla is one of India’s most popular hill stations. The city is located in the lower Himalayas at an altitude of approx. 2200m above sea-level. Previously the ‘summer capital’ of the British, it’s now the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh.

It has always been a popular summer retreat in shimla especially for those residing in North India. It’s lush green surroundings and cool climate make it an ideal get away from the relentless summers of the plains. The old British architecture which is visible in a number of buildings like the Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, Auckland House adds historic charm to this beautiful hill station.

Since the British made Shimla their summer capital, the city is well connected and easily accessible. If you wish to travel by train, then you need to board the train from Kalka, which is 96kms away from Shimla. Kalka is well connected to many cities including Chandigarh, Mumbai, Delhi, Ambala and Kolkata. It takes around 6hrs to reach Shimla from Kalka and 3-4 trains run daily on this route. For those wishing to travel comfortably, there is the Shivalik Express, which is a luxury train having less halts and a pantry facility. This railway track has recently been granted the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the Shivalik Express may be booked 120 days in advance, the booking for others opens only 30 days prior. Travel by train if you seek a truly Himalayan experience, as the train passes through 103 tunnels, with panoramic views of the Himalayas from its broad glass windows.

For those with a time crunch, air travel is the best option. Shimla has its own airport at Jubbarhatti, which is located 22kms away from the city. Flights from New Delhi, Chandigarh and Kullu operate on a daily basis. Taxis are easily available at reasonable fares. Alternatively, one may land at the Chandigarh Airport, located at a distance of 120 km from Shimla. Taxis to Shimla are easily available on this route as well. Opt for a pre-paid taxi to get the best price and avoid the hassle of bargaining.

Road travel is also a popular option with adventurous tourists or those who like to travel at their own pace. One may drive from Delhi or Chandigarh. Hiring a cab is also a good option if you want to travel comfortably. Delhi to Shimla is roughly 380kms, and Chandigarh to Shimla is just 120kms. Cabs are a good option as one can enjoy the beautiful scenery and stop to admire the views. If you are on a budget then bus travel is recommended. HPRTC buses connect all cities in Himachal Pradesh to Shimla. HPRTC buses as well as other luxury and ordinary buses run by private operators are easily available from Delhi and Chandigarh.

Mentioned above were the various ways on how to reach Shimla. Getting to Shimla is the easy bit, what is difficult is leaving this beautiful hill station, which allures you with its irresistible charm.

Discover love in Goa

Goa, the first name on everyone’s mind when thinking of a nice honeymoon destination is a place that guarantees everyone a good time irrespective of budget. Goa is blessed with a coastline that has innumerable beaches and a tropical climate ensuring sunny days almost throughout the year. This has also been a favorite location for a honeymoon and these days with destination weddings being so popular there are many who plan a wedding as well as a Goa honeymoon packages. One can opt for a resort on the beach and there are very good ones that have their own private areas of the beach as well as in-house pools for the comfort and privacy of their guests. Then there are private cottages in beautiful settings that help the romantic atmosphere. A honeymoon on a budget can also find many options easily in Goa.

A honeymoon in Goa can even be a cruise and with its lovely coastline there are cruises that can take a few days or those that are just day trips. There are hotels that are conveniently located to all the tourist spots throughout Goa and there is definitely more to Goa than just its many beaches. The adventurous can couple a honeymoon in Goa with some adventure sports as well for a different kind of honeymoon. Hotels in Goa offer many kinds of packages to honeymooners and these can include the room, transport for sightseeing with a guide and even most meals. Hotels with spas do offer sessions to couples at largely discounted rates. The best way to get options for ones budget and for the time available for the honeymoon is by browsing online. The latest and the best packages are always available here and one can choose the option of packages from hotels to a package that takes care of everything from the travel to ground transfers within Goa.

Travel sites are very professional and there are many reputed names in this business. One is also sure of getting the best deal online as often deals and discounts that are on offer online are not available anywhere else. A honeymoon in Goa can also be gifted to a special couple and the entire booking and payment can be done online. Among the many benefits of looking for a honeymoon in Goa online is that one need not visit different travel agencies when all the options are available at the click of a few buttons. The payment options online are also through secure gateways and one can complete the entire booking without having to leave home. This technology also allows us to view the rooms and facilities included in the package through the site making decisions easier.

A honeymoon in Goa is bound to be memorable and no matter what the budget the sheer ambience and bonhomie in Goa is a wonderful experience.

Adventure sports in Goa - Get the adrenaline flowing

Goa has an enviable coastline that has been attracting people for centuries and anyone who has come here once has gone away enchanted with the location and the wonderful holiday that is possible here. Goa is no stranger to traders, missionaries and tourists who have been coming here since colonial times and today this is a location that is definitely on the global tourist map. Goa has a lot to offer its visitors and while the beaches are always a big draw, adventure sports are also very popular here. The fabulous coastline is a great location for all kinds of adventure activity and there is something for the amateur as well for the enthusiast and for all those who are here for the thrill.

What can one indulge in while on holiday in Goa, after the sunbathing and the lazy days spent sightseeing and appreciating the fine seafood is that one can definitely find adventure sports facilities everywhere especially near the beaches. These range from adrenaline pumping windsurfing, scuba diving, waterskiing, parasailing, jet skiing, Para gliding and even the less strenuous deep sea fishing and dolphin spotting. All of these have qualified professionals manning the activities and are able to not only guide and look after the safety equipments but can also train the first timer. Then there are other options in these sports like volleyball, basketball, cycling, trekking, rock climbing and even trips to some of the small islands around Goa.

Goa is popular during the summers and after the monsoons. The weather in goa has a pleasant winter and is the main tourist season October to February is its peak when the carnival officially ends the tourist season. Adventure sports can be enjoyed throughout the year except during the monsoons which are quite heavy. The most popular beaches for adventure sports in Goa are Anjuna, Baga, Bogmalo, Colva, Calangute, Dona Paula, Miramar and Vagator. The best way to find out more about the adventure sports in Goa is by browsing online. These days the internet is the best way to get updated information fast. There are many professional and reputed travel agents with sites that have information on adventure sports and there are even sites that are exclusive to adventure sports in Goa. These sites will offer everything from package deals that include accommodation and various sporting activities or one can choose to separate these two.

A package that takes care of the itinerary like the travel to Goa, the accommodation, sightseeing options and includes some adventure sports is a great option. Adventure enthusiasts can even focus directly on the adventure sports in Goa by browsing through sites that ensure that the whole vacation is an adrenaline rush. Whatever one’s preference, the internet makes it easy to plan and to book the entire process conveniently online with the least amount of hassle.

Gastronomic Delights Of Shimla

Shimla, the very name evokes images of snow capped mountains, fresh salubrious air, a walk down the Mall Road and the old world charm that only Shimla can offer. This capital city has something for everyone. A rich past for those interested in history, colonial architecture for the art lover and breathtaking views for the simple tourist. It’s no wonder then that Shimla is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations.

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas and surrounded by lush pine, deodar and oak forests, Shimla has the perfect setting for the ideal hill station. Known for its famous Mall Road and various sightseeing spots, the city is a traveller’s delight. But there is another little known side of Shimla – the scrumptious local Himachali cuisine. Shimla is much more than just a hill station, the culture and famous food in shimla of the city is one of its best kept secrets.

Himachali cuisine varies from region to region due to the huge diversity of the state. It has been developed keeping in mind, the nutritional requirements of those residing in cold climates. Rice along with lentils is the staple diet of the people here. Non vegetarian fare is also common and is made with lots of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and red chillies.

Some of the authentic dishes of Shimla are, Luchi-Poti( made from lamb intestine) and Sepu Vadi (steamed buns in curry). A must try are the bakeries in Shimla serving fresh and delicious items like home made cakes, flavoured coffees, doughnuts, rolls, eclair etc. Trishul Bakery in Mall Road, Sharma Bakery in Sanjauli and Kwality Bakery in Jakhu Main Market are some of the famous bakeries. Being the ‘fruit bowl’ of the country, Shimla offers some very good wines, squashes and jams made from the local produce.

Due to it’s popularity as a tourist place, the local cuisine of Shimla is almost extinct and served in very few places. Instead you may find all restaurants serving Punjabi/ Chinese food to cater to the tastes of the North Indian traveller. Momos, chhole bhature, chowmein, chaat etc are available at almost all hotels and restaurants. Shimla caters to tourists with all budgets. One may enjoy fine dining at the luxury hotels or simple fare at a local restaurant or on the road-side. Next time you head to Shimla, do remember to explore the gastronomic delights the city has to offer. Sample the local wines and food for a truly Himachali experience. Happy eating!

Serenading in Shimla

There’s something about the mountains that makes them the quintessential honeymoon destination. The alluring aura of the mountains has attracted couples for ages. It’s no coincidence that the King of Romance, Yash Chopra, shot all his romantic numbers in the Alps! We might not have the Alps here in India, but we do have the beautiful, majestic Himalayas. The Himalayas are home to the finest hill stations in India, including Manali, Shimla, Nainital, Mussorie etc. Out of these spectacular places, Shimla, the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’ is most favoured by honeymooners.

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is known for its panoramic beauty. Located in the North Western range of the Himalayas, Shimla is surrounded by pine, oak, deodar and rhododendron trees. The British were so mesmerised by it’s beauty that they made it their summer capital. Even today it is one of the most popular hill stations of India. Although frequented by families and adventure tourists, it’s the honeymooners who are most visible on Shimla’s streets. Couples flock the famous Mall Road, hand in hand, enjoying the romantic weather.

Gauging it’s popularity as a honeymoon destination, tour operators have begun offering special Packages for Honeymoon in Shimla couples which include welcome drinks, a decorated room, candle light dinners and organised tours among other things. Since it’s a major tourist destination, Shimla has an array of hotels to choose from, for all budgets. There’s The Cecil by Oberoi and Hotel De Park for those seeking luxury, and a wide range of four star and budget hotels. Few resorts have also come up around the city for couples who want to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the hills and seek a more private experience. But remember to book in advance as Shimla is very crowded during peak season.

The weather in Shimla adds to the city’s romantic appeal. Shimla enjoys a cool climate during winters and a moderately warm climate during summers, making it ideal for tourism all year around. Places of interest here include the famous Mall Road, Christ Church, Summer Hill, Tattapani etc. There are a number of towns around Shimla that one can even visit like Mashobara, Kufri, Chail, Chharabra and Naldehra.

The majestic Himalayas in the background, pine and deodar trees all around, salubrious fresh mountain air, a slight chill in the wind, a breath taking view and a vintage old world charm....it can’t get anymore romantic than this. Are you still waiting for reasons to visit Shimla for your honeymoon?