NEW YEAR EVE CELEBRATIONS

On 31st December, as everyone in the office quickly pack their bags to rush to party all night, Delhi is also ready to embrace you in its jam struck roads. So, the time you committed to your parents that you'll be home by then is spent being stranded on roads.

However as you reach your favorite club, first you are baffled as you compare yourself to what others are wearing, only to be disappointed. Then you enter the club to shake a leg or see a live Bollywood performance. Inside the club it is so dark that it is difficult to realize who is the dance partner and when did the partner change. While warming up dancing, drinking, eating and doing all that included in the package (squeezing out every penny that you spent on this party) you get into the mood to let your hair down and jive all night.

As the clock strikes twelve in the midnight, everyone joins together to count the countdown, clasp their hands to make noise, party, dance and cheers to mark the beginning of the New Year, because in India it well said that what you do in the first moment on the first day, will happen throughout the whole year. So 'happy' is the word that comes to every mind, to stay happy and spread happiness. This is the time when you call and sms your family, friends and to all those who mean the most.

New Year eve is that day of the year when you say goodbye to all that has happened and treasuring all the good times as a memory and making new resolutions for all the promises new year holds. New year eve is about party, jubilation so that the coming year too is happy making everybody's dreams come true.

EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN - UDAIPUR

India tour on your mind and not visiting one of the most rich in heritage city? Well that will leave your trip to India incomplete. Udaipur- the city of lights, palaces, colors and love, one of the most romantic city also known as the city of lakes welcomes with the panoramic lush hills of Aravali.

Tour to Udaipur covers many palaces one of which is the famous Lake palace, on the banks of lake Pichola, and the experience here is overwhelming. Udaipur actually turns the trip into an imperial extravaganza as it takes you back to the century old times, because of its well preserved forts and palaces. Many of the palaces have been converted into luxury hotels in Udaipur. Dudh Talai a beautiful rock garden leaves you captivated with the sunset view in lake Pichola.

Beautiful mirror work on moti mahal palace, will leave you awestruck and if you have a woman in your life, you will be dragged to every shop for mirror work miniatures or even attires. That's the appeal of the place that will reflect in your life too. This romantic city may leave you mesmerized or even compel you to fall head over heels in love with your same partner(no choice provided). Great stories of heroism and splendor still echoes in the heart and mind of the people there.

Udaipur still possess the medieval flavor keeping alive the timeless traditions in art and craft, in food and festivals and even in bazaar, and if you are not a vivacious person the chances are you may get addicted to colors, to multi-layered costumes and bright smiles. Lively folk dance, music, festivities, food, culture etc. there is the stroke of something extra in everything and it's phenomenal. Well-lit city makes your evening even more startling.

One of the most important dish of Udaipur named “dil jani” (dil means heart) is also love-struck . This shows city's fascination for give and take in love or say everything is fair in love. All delicacies served, festivals celebrated, comfortable and royal stay in the Udaipur Hotels and scenic beauty, all this will lure your eyes and will magnetize you no matter where you are to visit again, to relax and rejuvenate, on trip to Udaipur.

The Unforgettable Tour To India- Kerala

Down south, away from the hustle bustle of the city life, surrounded by spectacular hills and beaches, all this in one state and easily accessible...Where else will you find a paradise other than Kerala.

Kissed by the sun and blessed with natural beauty, it is perfect for those who want to get revitalized and rejuvenate. For nature lovers, this place is a picture perfect portrait to see the beauty at its best. Tour to India is attracting many foreigners and Kerala being one of the most important state for Indian tourism and their promotional slogan “Incredible India”, magnetize tourists from all over the world. 'God's own country' Kerala offers so many unique things that sometimes it gets difficult to choose what to first opt for. Be it the beautiful beaches, experince of houseboat, backwaters, cultural aspects, adventure, even getting romantic with the partner or may be with the nature, it is all so unimaginable. God has really been kind on Kerala for making it so picturesque and people of Kerala have been responsible for making it so exquisite.

The state government leaves no stone unturned in providing comfortable and relaxing stay for the tourists. The joy of traveling to India, that too to one of the incredible states is like a dream come true. It may sound pompous but as everyone around is changing towards natural way of living, so was my purpose to visit Kerala a place endowed with the heritage use of ayurveda and yoga, that actually brought back my lost spirits. That was one thing I would always love going back to. Traveling all the way to south may sound tiring to some but the moment you are there, the enchanting and breathtaking view takes away all the pain and justifies your decision to be there. So, visit to Kerala is a thumb-up.

For more information on kerala tours visit -: http://www.travelmasti.com/

FUN IS WHERE GOA IS...

Ever wondered what it takes to be just what you want to be, no strings attached, no questions asked and all this in the midst of nature’s best and in the most casual frame of mind…It takes just a few rags and a pair of slip-ons.

Welcome to Goa, a place where no one really cares what you look like or what you wear.All you need is an appetite for fun and some soaring spirits to enjoy beyond your imagination. As you enter the tourist paradise, Goa greets you with the beautiful beaches, tranquil atmosphere and warm smiles- A sight that is a delight to the eyes.

Gorgeous Goa is a place to take pleasure in all that you long to do, a place to enjoy the spirit of being alive. From the mouth-watering food to the relaxed mood, adventurous sports, spectacular churches, Goa hotels and temples, beaches, ferry and feni too, everything lets you remember Goa not in the pictures but in the heart. Goa also has a lot of Bollywood touch to it. Like the legendary Chapora Fort where the famous movie 'Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot and was named after it by locals (as Dil Chahta Hai point). Moreover, it will not be a surprise to find the actors shooting, shopping or just strolling along the golden sand.

For youngsters Goa is the perfect place to jive, because of it’s enliven evenings, exciting nightlife, casinos and discothèques with incredible music, ambience and affordable liquor.

Goa is an intoxicating experience to the senses and always unforgettable. So go out and explore yourself, try your luck in the casino, discover the sportsman within you and cherish the scenic beauty for years and years to come.

Mumbai - Never Say Die Attitude

Click on any Mumbai link and every page will tell you about the shocking attacks on the city, how it has affected the lives of the Mumbaikars and how it is facing a dip in the traffic to the megapolis. The city of dreams, Mumbai, has gained importance not only because it is the financial hub of India but also because of the presence of the film industry that has always wooed artists from small towns who come to fulfill their most cherished dreams. The city that never sleeps, is mushroomed with people pursuing their interests and business. The attacks indubitably shook those dreams but only for sometime till the wounds will heal, as Mumbai will overcome every scar it has suffered.

Mumbai does not have a heritage value with it but the famous Taj Mahal hotel near Gateway of India, one of the most popular hotels in Mumbai, allures tourists, globally. The unfortunate attacks on Mumbai in November 2008 have apparently stirred the business of Mumbai hotels but still the charm and charisma of the Taj Mahal hotel remains intact, and this architectural marvel will continue servicing and specializing in hospitality that will drive tourists back into the city.

With the Christmas and New Year just round the corner, it's the holiday season to celebrate the new beginning. The attacks in the city have definitely jarred the celebrations but the most talked about 'spirit of Mumbai' will come back to it's lifeline. The pulsating nightlife at the hotels in Mumbai will revive their spark and the new year will bring the promises of future growth and prosperity to the city of hopes, Mumbai.

Tourist Places In Delhi

Delhi is a rich architecturally speaking – home to forts Red Fort & Purana Quila, the tombs – Humayun’s Tomb, temples such as Birla temple & Lotus temple. Some prominent structures from the British era include the India gate, the Parliament House (my favorite building), the Connaught Place, the Viceroy house. In recent times the development of Akshardham temple has created much controversy due to the environmentally sensitive location. We enjoyed visiting and clicking pictures at most of the above locations all of which are highly recommended (time permitting). If you are short on time – do not miss Humayun’s tomb, India Gate and Akshardham temple.

We stayed at Taj Palace in Delhi, which was very accessible from all the major attractions. We also enjoyed dining at Rodeo’s (Mexican) and at Radisson’s Italiana (near the airport).

North India - Golden Triangle Tour

One of the extremely popular travel circuits in India is the Golden Triangle covering Delhi (capital of India), Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur (capital of state of Rajasthan). Each of these destinations has a rich history from times of former Hindu, Mughal & British rulers of India.

The tour started from Delhi, which is an interesting amalgamation of the fascinating experiences. This old and yet very young capital of India was bristling with energy. Lots of construction in all the parts (most of it due to Metro Lines being laid for upcoming commonwealth games) made navigating through this busy metropolis very difficult – but we enjoyed every moment nevertheless.

Delhi is a hundreds of years old capital of the country and as per some accounts the history stretches back thousands of years from the time of Mahabharata (an ancient Indian scripture). The city is dotted with structures (& ruins) of historic, medieval times from its rich past.

Is it safe to travel to India?

First there were floods and then the bomb blasts - so the question on lots of people minds (who were thinking of traveling to India) is whether it is safe to travel to India. Clearly the questions are very valid and the fear tangible. However India continues to be a very safe destination for tourists and we aim to answer such questions through this article.

India is a large country and incidents happening in one part of the country do not impact another. Lets start with the flood situation. The floods are localised in parts of Bihar, which is a state in north India. Bihar is not significant from tourism perspective other than places like Gaya, known for their rich Buddhist history. So far floods in Bihar have impacted the districts of Ararea, Purnea, Madhepura, Saharsha and Kursaila.

Also in late September there has been heavy rainfall in Himachal which has had some effect on normal life in Shimla and adjoining hills, but again these incidents are far and remote inbetween and effect travel during a certain timeperiod only.

The September bomb blasts in Delhi and those earlier in Gujarat have been a cause of concern for general population and the tourists alike. So far though, the impact on everyday life & business has been low. Also the investigative agencies have made progress and nabbed those behind the blasts, which surely should act as some deterrent.

Till the situation improves, it is advisable to follow safety precautions such as avoiding crowded places and bazaars, being vigilant while using busy public transport such as trains & buses, not making friends with complete strangers etc, taking good care of your personal and precious belongings etc.

Overall the situation all over India remains peacefull and conducive to travel and tourism. One way of judging the overall mood is by looking at the domestic (Indian) tourism sector -where there has been good growth & the travel traffic looks all set to increase again in the coming fall and winter travel season.

Durga Pooja : Dussehra

The last four days of Sharad Navratri are celebrated as Durga Puja in West Bengal (in East India). This is the biggest festival of the year in this state. Exquisitely crafted and decorated life-size clay idols of the Goddess Durga depicting her slaying the demon Mahisasura are set up in temples and other places. These idols are then worshipped for five days and immersed in the river on the fifth day.

In the South Indian states of Tamil Nadu & Karnataka, Sharad Navratri is celebrated by setting up of Golu or Bombegalu. It is believed that this was a means to invite people home to celebrate the festivities with them. In Karanataka, particularly Mysore on the 10th day the enacting of destruction of evil (Ravana destroyed by Rama) is displayed with the lighting of dolls representing Ravana and forces of evil.

In West India, Sharad Navratri is celebrated with the famous Garba dance. Garba is a circular dance performed by women around an earthenware pot called a garbo. As the dancers whirl around the pot clapping in a steady rhythm with a singer and a drummer provide the musical accompaniment. Another popular form of dance is Dandia-ras or 'stick' dance, in which men and women join the dance circle, holding small polished sticks or dandias. As they whirl to the rhythm of the dance, men and women strike the dandias together.

Another popular celebration of the festival happens in Kullu also known as the valley of Living Gods. A festival procession carrying the idol of Lord Ragunath is led by the Kullu Raja and village deities. The procession starts a week of religious ceremonies, cultural activities, socializing and shopping at the huge bazaar.

Celebration In India

With a vast multitude of religions, geographies and climates - there is no shortage of reasons to keep celebrating in India.In the very first post I will tell you about very important celebrations coming up in October .
The first festival which is coming is "Navratri Festival".

Sharad Navratri Festival
Celebrations: Throughout India
Date: Beginning Of October

Sharad Navratri or Maha Navratri is a Hindu festival of worship and dance. Sharad means "winter" & Navaratri means "nine nights" in Sanskrit. During these nine nights and ten days at the onset of winters, nine forms of female divinity are worshipped.

The festival is celebrated during the beginning of October the exact dates determined by the lunar calendar. Sharad Navratris are celebrated in different ways throughout India. In North India, Sharad Navratris are celebrated with much fervor by fasting on all nine days and worshipping the Goddess Parvati in her different forms. The festival culminates in Durga Puja and Dussehra (means "ten days").


The foreign travellers show a great interest in the cultural and heritage tour of India.India is known for its diverse culture and tradition.

The rest of the festival will be discussed in next post.