Tag: places to visit

  • Top 10 Places to Visit in Ladakh

    Top 10 Places to Visit in Ladakh

    Located in Jammu and Kashmir, the northernmost state of India, Ladakh is best known for its breathtaking landscapes and mountainous terrain. From amazing roads flanked by wondrous mountainscapes to the many colours of Buddhism, there’s plenty here that makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. With its splendid geographical location, Ladakh boasts of some of the highest motorable roads, mountain passes and villages. From ancient trade routes between India, China and Tibet to Buddhist monasteries,  there’s enough in Ladakh to keep you here for long. While spots like Pangong Lake and the Leh Palace might be quite popular, there’s a lot more to the place that awaits you. To make things easier for you, we’ve picked out 10 places to visit in Ladakh on your trip here.

    1. Shanti Stupa

    Famed for its characteristic white dome, the Shanti Stupa is one of the landmarks of the region. Located on a hilltop in the Chanspa region, the stupa was constructed in 1991 by a Japanese Buddhist. This monument is particularly prominent due to the fact that it houses the relics of Buddha within its structure, which was overseen by Dalai Lama. Owing to this, the monument is frequented by tourists from the world over, making it one of the top places to visit in Ladakh. Apart from its religious significance, the place also has splendid views to keep you gaping. Make sure to visit the spot during the evening, when the stupa is all beautifully lit up.

    2. Thikse Monastery

    Located atop a hill in the village of Thikse (hence the name), this stunning monastery is situated around 19 km away from the main town of Leh. Strikingly similar to the Tibetan Potala Palace in Lhasa, the monastery is a spectacular sight in itself. The 12-storied monastery stands out with its iconic architecture and significance, making it one of the top places to visit in Ladakh. Apart from being the largest gompa in central Ladakh, the structure houses several Buddhist art pieces such as stupas, statues and paintings. The Maitreya Temple that houses the largest statue of Maitreya in the district, is a major tourist attraction here.

    3. Hall of Fame

    A place that vividly represents the region’s rich history and culture, the Hall of Fame definitely deserves a spot on the list of places to visit in Ladakh. Constructed and maintained by the Indian Army, the place is a museum paying homage to soldiers who played an integral role in maintaining peace in the region and lost their lives during the Indo-Pak wars. Located near the airfield in Leh, the building also serves as a museum of sorts. Apart from allowing tourists to gain a perspective on the important historical events relevant to the region, like the Kargil War, it also lets gives you a glimpse of the life and contributions of the members of the Armed Forces.

    4. Spituk Monastery

    Around 8 km from Leh is this beautiful monastery which was founded by the Red Hat sect of Buddhists but later taken over by the Yellow Hat sect. The Spituk monastery is believed to have been completed by around the 11th century and is one of the most prominent religious locations in the region. Amongst the attractions here is a huge statue of Goddess Kali, unveiled only during the annual festival of the monastery. The monastery is particularly worth visiting during the festival time, which is held in the eleventh month of the Tibetan calendar year. Providing a unique insight into the religious lifestyle and heritage of the region and also offering incredible views at every step of the way, the Spituk Monastery is definitely worth including in your list of places to visit in Ladakh.

    5. Nubra Valley

    One of the most beautiful places in the entire region, situated around 150 km from Leh town, the Nubra Valley derives its name from a word that translates to ‘valley of flowers.’ What makes it a must-visit place, you wonder? The best part about visiting Nubra, apart from its beautiful flora, is the fact that you get to cross Khardung La, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Formed by the intersection of two major rivers, namely, the Shyok River – a tributary of the Indus river – and the Siachen river, this valley lies at an incredible altitude of over 10,000 feet above the sea level. Amongst the prominent attractions in this region, the Siachen Glacier, lying to the north of the valley, and the beautiful rivers flowing through are some of the most popular.

    6. Zorawar Fort

    Often listed among the places to visit in Ladakh, the Zorawar Fort, also known as the Riasi Fort, is a remarkable structure built with local clay, sun-dried bricks and stones. A reflection of the period of military conquests and exploits of General Zorawar Singh, after whom the fort was named, this entire structure is surrounded by a massive moat of 3-5 metres. While the structure includes what’s left of an old mosque and a temple as well, make sure you visit the Zorawar Museum which highlights the historic achievements of high altitude warfare soldiers of the region.

    7. Central Asian Museum

    Situated in the same courtyard as one of the oldest mosques in the region, the Central Asian Museum is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh if you want to take a peek at its rich history. Supposedly based on a historic Lhasa mansion, the tapered structure is a four-storied stone tower with a drawbridge, making it seem quite like a fortress of yore. Constructed with the aim of providing insights into the unique trade practices of Central Asia, the museum features different exhibits ranging from artifacts to an interesting photo-essay titled Faces of Ladakh. It is safe to say that it leaves you with a different perspective of the region which is predominantly known for tourism and travel.

    8. Sankar Monastery

    Situated near Leh town, Sankar Monastery or Sankar Gompa reflects Buddhist traditions in the midst of the stunning scenery that is characteristic of the region. Though home to only a few resident monks, this monastery is the residence of the Abbot of Spituk monastery, the senior incarnate lama of Ladakh. Particularly beautiful in the evening time when it is lit up, a visit to this monastery promises a serene experience with some incredible views. Consisting of a cluster of buildings constructed in traditional style with a hint of modern influence, the monastery offers a unique insight into the charm of the region, making it one of the top places to visit in Ladakh.

    9. Phyang Monastery

    Sacred shrines, frescoes from the royal period, a 900-year-old museum – there’s enough and more reasons why Phyang Monastery is considered a must-visit place while sightseeing in Ladakh. Located around 15 km from the main town of Leh, this beautiful Buddhist monastery dates back to the early 16th century and has different stories about how it was founded. While the treasures within the monastery are bound to leave you fascinated, another attraction here would be the annual festivals, particularly the Gang-Sngon Tsedup Festival.

    10. Namgyal Tsemo Monastery

    One of the most beautiful sights in the region, the Namgyal Tsemo Monastery was constructed during the early 15th century by King Tashi Namgyal of Ladakh. This structure serves as a reflection of the rich heritage of the area, both in terms of its royal legacy as well as the prominent Buddhist culture here. The monastery is especially famous for its three-story-high solid gold statue of Maitreya Budha. Formerly a palace, the location is popular amongst tourists not just for the stunning view but also for the quiet and peaceful vibes of the space. Though it involves a bit of a climb to reach the site, the view and experience here are definitely worth it.

    Owing to its natural beauty and interesting spots, Ladakh is definitely one of the most stunning holiday destinations in India. And now that you know where to head to while here, go on and plan your getaway soon!

  • 10 Most beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling

    10 Most beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling

    ‘Queen of the Hills’ Darjeeling is situated in the northern part of West Bengal. This little hill station has picturesque sceneries to make an everlasting place in your hearts. Darjeeling is nestled among the grand ranges of Mount Kanchenjunga (K2). From all around the town, you can catch glimpses of mountains.

    This little town was originally set up by the British during the British reign over India as a health resort for the British soldiers. Over time, it developed into a tourist destination and it now attracts a great number of tourists around the year due to its mesmerizing beauty.

    Darjeeling is a perfect getaway for spending a memorable vacation with your loved ones or your family. The weather around the town is suitable for a visit throughout the year. There are a lot of things to do and places to visit in this part of West Bengal.

    It is the land where a great quality of muscatel flavoured tea is produced which is then exported to many countries due to its excellent quality. And let’s not forget the toy train rides of Darjeeling, which goes through tea plantations stretched over vast acres of land, and many other places to visit in Darjeeling!

    Darjeeling is the town which is still not affected by the hustle-bustle of advancing technology and pollution. A trip to this magical hill station will be a memorable one and will help you to brush away the fatigue from your mundane routine. You can even combine your trip to Darjeeling along with a trip to Gangtok since it is only a four hours ride from Darjeeling.

    Here are a few places to visit in Darjeeling that one must visit at least once in a lifetime.

    Tiger Hills

    It would be unfair to begin the list of the ‘places to visit in Darjeeling’ with anything other than the Tiger Hills. Tiger Hills is what you’re looking for if you seek to relax and spend time inquietude. These are most famous for the breathtaking view that it has to offer of the sunrise. It is Darjeeling’s highest point with an altitude of about 8,378 feet.

    Visiting them during the right season is very important so that you don’t miss out on anything. The best time to visit the Tiger Hills is from March to April and mid of October to December to catch the awe-inspiring sight of a replete snow cover. You can hire a taxi or travel via foot to reach the Tiger Hills as per your convenience. If you are lucky enough, your taxi driver can also act as your guide!

    Passenger Ropeway

    The Darjeeling Cable Car begins from a distance of just 3 kilometres from the Chowk Bazaar. This is Asia’s largest ropeway covering a distance of about 8 kilometres in 45 minutes. What makes it a must-visit destination is the splendid view from the ropeway. You get to see the Himalayan ranges, lush green tea gardens, and mountain peaks shrouded in clouds.

    Bring your kids to this mesmerizing journey and watch them get immersed in nature’s beauty. The Darjeeling Ropeway system is also India’s first cable car system set up in the year 1968. The journey begins from Singamarj and ends at the Singla Bazar. It is so beautiful that you’d want to visit it over and over again and would want to tell all your friends about it. It’s possibly the best way to catch a glimpse of the many vistas Darjeeling has to offer.

    Ghoom Monastery

    If you love peaceful places surrounded by nothing but trees, then Ghoom Monastery is one such place to visit in Darjeeling that you must visit. It is the oldest monastery in the region. This place is so peaceful that you’d wish to stay here forever.

    Outside the monastery are Bhutiyas, or vendors selling woollen clothes and eatables. The only demerit of this place is its size, which is quite small. However, apart from its small size, it has some great views of mountains to offer. You can even visit the roofs of the monastery for an even better view. It is located close to the Ghoom station, which makes it easy to visit. You can visit it with no prior planning since it will take only about forty-five minutes to visit it.

    Aloobari Gompa Monastery

    It is located close to the Darjeeling town, which makes it easily accessible. The monastery was established in the year 1914, due to which it is a loved site of history lovers. The gates of the monastery have two statues of a lion as a symbol of protection. The monastery has Lord Buddha’s statues along with a model of Padmasambhava, who was involved in spreading Buddhism in various regions. The walls of the monastery have carvings which depict the life of Lord Buddha in a beautiful manner.

    Shrubbery Nightingale Park

    A public park meant for relaxation and recreation. You get to look at some amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga while taking a stroll here.

    Various cultural programs are held here during different times of the year. If you are lucky enough, you may even catch the shooting of some movie since a lot of Bollywood movies are shot here. The park was damaged in an earthquake in the year 1934. However, it was redeveloped and was opened to the public again. This park has some great scenic views of trees, waterfall, and mountains to offer. It will take you a long time to get over it!

    Toy Train Ride

    This happens to be one of the most sought-after activities by families. Covering a great amount of surface, this ride will take you to some magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga Mountain, and pine trees. What adds excitement to take a ride on the Toy Train is the fact that UNESCO has called it ‘the most outstanding example of hill passenger railway’.

    You will need to be patient during the journey since the train moves at a slow pace. You can sit back and savour the sights along the way. It will give you insight into other places to visit in Darjeeling. Take a ride on the Toy Train Ride and get ready to be surprised by the splendid views that it has to offer.

    Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Garden

    Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Garden is one of India’s best zoo and also one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. It is a home to a variety of endangered animals like the Siberian Tiger, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Red Panda, Snow Leopards, and much more.

    The zoo is well maintained and has a café inside it. It is situated on a hill which has to be walked in order to reach the zoo. Thus, it is, even more, a treat for nature lovers since the pathway to it is wonderfully surrounded by trees. The zoo has an aquarium inside, as well.

    Japanese Peace Pagoda

    One of the most peaceful places to visit in Darjeeling. A ‘Pagoda’ is a Buddhist temple, commonly in the form of a many-tiered tower. The Japanese Peace Pagoda is situated on top of hills making it even more beautiful. It was built as early as in the year 1972 under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fuji, who even laid its foundation stone.

    The temple showcases all the four avatars of Lord Buddha. People love visiting this place due to its uniqueness and peace.

    During the daily evening pooja, the visitors are asked to join it and are handed a hand drum to do so. The Pagoda was built with the aim to unite people from all walks of life. It even succeeds in doing so to the most extent. The pathway to the place is another scenic route, offering sights and sounds that include the Himalayan range and lush tea gardens. A walk on it will make a special place in people’s hearts.

    Joey’s Pub

    If you are looking for a place to spend an evening with some celebration, then Joey’s Pub is the place meant for you. This well-designed pub is famous for its old British beer and drinks. The interior of this pub is covered in wood and framed pictures. The pub boasts of an old yet classy look.

    What makes it even more exciting to visit this pub are the people from various walks of life. You will get to meet a lot of foreigners here. Also, if you are lucky enough, you can stumble across some famous Indian singer performing a little concert over here. Joey’s Pub is the best place in Darjeeling to drink some good quality beer and relax.

    Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

    The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is certainly to be added in the ‘places to visit in Darjeeling’ list. This is situated right behind the Darjeeling Zoo. Thus, you can plan a visit to it while visiting the zoo.

    It was built to celebrate the success of Edmund Hillary in his conquest to climb Mount Everest. He was the first Director of this institute who used to teach mountaineering to all those who were interested. It now has grown into much more than just a simple mountaineering institute. The museum was established here which has artefacts related to mountaineering.

    Apart from the museum, there is a restaurant, a tea parlour, and a souvenir shop. So, if you are thinking that visiting the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute would be a boring experience, then you are mistaken.

    You can spot the foundation stone which was laid by the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Just like every other place in Darjeeling, this too has some great views of tea gardens and Mount Kanchenjunga. You can even sit on a chair and admire the vast stretches of mountains and green fields.

    Other than these places to visit in Darjeeling, there are several other places to visit in Darjeeling which deserve a visit at least once in your lifetime like the Batasia Loop, the Happy Valley Tea Estate, Mahakali Temple, the village of Tinchuley. Apart from these, you can take part in various tours like biking tours, trekking tours, and a lot more.

    Darjeeling is a land of wonders which has some great views to offer.

    So pack your bags and head to this beautiful hill station called Darjeeling!

  • Exotic Bali Destination

    Exotic Bali Destination

    Bali Recommended Tours

    Ubud Village Tour

    Morning or afternoon half day tours. Spend a visit to Celuk, a well-known village of talented gold and silversmiths. Mas and UBUD villages, a center of wood carving, painting, handy-crafts and traditional Balinese art as well as famous for its rich culture and traditions

    Kintamani Highland Tour

    A full day tour, to visit a traditional hand made batik painting, visit a well known village of talented gold and silversmiths. Mas, a center of wood carving and painting village to view the traditional and modern art of Bali. The highlight of the trip is the breathtaking view from KINTAMANI of the smoking Mount Batur crater and its sister Batur Lake with surrounding scenery of green hills. At noon, on the way back will be passing to see spectacular view of rice terraces and the last visit is to see the holy water spring temple at Sebatu village.

    Kintamani Highland & Barong Dance

    A full day tour. with the first visit to see traditional of Bali’s fascinating Barong Dance at  Batubulan village, Its represent the eternal fight between good and evil. continue to visit a well known village of talented gold and silversmiths. Mas, a center of wood carving and painting village to view the traditional and modern art of Bali. The highlight of the trip is the breathtaking view from KINTAMANI of the smoking Mount Batur crater and its sister Batur Lake with surrounding scenery of green hills. At noon, on the way back will be passing to see spectacular view of rice terraces and the last visit is to see the holy spring water temple at Sebatu village.

    Besakih Mother Temple Tour

    A full day tour, to see the mother temple of Bali with the first routing stop is in the village of Gianyar to see a traditional hand weaving technique, and further east to the regency of Klungkung for a stop at the Hall Justice of Kertha Gosha. Continued to the north via Bukit Jambul to see a good scenery of the Indian ocean, rice terraces, clove plantations and the view of the neighboring villages. Finally to BESAKIH Temple located on the slove of mount AGUNG. Besakih is the mother temple of Hinduism in Bali and is actually a complex of many different temple structures dedicated to the Hindu trinity.

    Bedugul & Tanah Lot Temple Tour

    A full day tour, with the routing to visit Taman Ayun village (the Royal Family temple), BEDUGUL vegetable and flower plantations, Lake Beratan with the temple of Ulun Danu inside the Lake.

    At noon the visit will be continued to see a spectacular Tanah Lot temple. On this last stop there are some art shops selling Balinese handicrafts good for souvenirs & collection.

    Uluwatu Temple and Nusa Dua Tour

    Morning or afternoon half-day tours. Spend a visit to Nusa Dua and Tanjung beach to see some water sport activities, where you have the opportunity of participating in a variety of Optional marine sports including snorkeling, parasailing, jet skiing, banana boating and many others. The next, is visiting ancient temple of ULUWATU, located on top of the cliff jutting out to the sea, hundreds of meters above the Indian ocean. Some naughty monkeys are around the temple area. Suggested tour in the afternoon as might see the sun set from Uluwatu temple (it is subject to the weather conditions).

    Mengwi, Monkey Forest and Tanah Lot Tour 

    Half day afternoon tour to visit TAMAN AYUN (Royal Family temple), the next visit will be continued to ALAS KEDATON village (the sacred monkey forest and the ancient Bukit Sari temple) The nearby jungle hides is populated with fruit bats which hang in clusters from the trees. The final stop is the spectacular TANAH LOT temple which stands proudly above the ocean on its rocky platform and where you will see Bali’s most beautiful sunset. On these last two stops there are some art shops selling Balinese handicrafts good for souvenirs.

    Karangasem Tour (East of Bali)

    A morning full day tour. travel to northeast, the regency of Gianyar, to see a traditional hand weaving technique. Further east to the neighboring regency of Klungkung for a stop at the Hall Justice of Kertha Gosha, originating from the 17th century. On the way to Karangasem we stop at Goa Lawah, the bat cave temple, so called for the thousand of bats, which inhabit it, and the site of one of  Bali’s most significant temples. The village of  Kusamba lies still further east  to see traditional salt production methods and the local fishing industry. Our destination  is the capital city of  KARANGASEM to visit the Tirta Gangga bathing pool of the old Kings.

    Kintamani  Highlands & Besakih Temple (North east of Bali) 

    Full day tour, start our routing to visit a well known village of talented gold and silversmiths. Mas, a center of wood carving and painting village to view the traditional and modern art of Bali. The next stop to see the breath-taking view from KINTAMANI of the smoking Mount Batur crater and its sister Batur Lake with surrounding scenery of green hills. Noon : Continue to BESAKIH temple as the mother temple of Hinduism in Bali and is actually a complex of many different temple structures dedicated to the Hindu trinity. On the return journey we will be passing Bukit Jambul for a beautiful view of the Indian Ocean from the highlands of Bali.

    Bedugul to Singaraja  Lovina Beach (North of Bali)

    A full day tour. Visit the cool central highland region of Bedugul for a variety of unusual fruits, vegetables and flowers, which can be bought fresh at the local market, and view the Beratan Lake. Descend to the coast and the old Balinese capital SINGARAJA, on the way visit Bali’s highest waterfall at GITGIT village.  The next stop is LOVINA Beach, close to Singaraja, it is a popular swimming beach.  Return via Banjar Tega where there is  a natural hot spring and then through coffee plantations and stunning rice field terraces in Tabanan.

    Kuta Beach Tour

    Half day tour to see the hustle and bustle of Kuta area the most famous tourist resort in Bali. The stretched beaches of Kuta with so many visitors from all over the world put on their swim suits enjoying their swimming, sun bathing, surfing, massage and any other activities. Along in Kuta area there are many art shops selling Balinese handicrafts good for souvenirs, department store money changers, banks, restaurants, bars, night life entertainments are also available.

    Bali Bird Park, Painting & Silver Village

    Situated in the village of Singapadu, Gianyar, The Bali Bird Park encompasses an area of two hectares, providing an environment for over 250 different bird species from around the world. A stroll through the park ensures a kaleidoscope of different colored birds enclosed in tropical habitats surrounded by a multitude of diverse palms and rich tropical flora. A perfect way to relax and certainly an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. On the way to the park, some stops will be done to visit a traditional hand made batik painting, continue to visit a well known village of talented gold and silversmiths at Celuk village and the stone carving village at Batubulan. Entrance fee to BALI BIRD park is a compulsory.

    BALI ZOO Park, Painting & Silver Village

    Situated in the village of Singapadu, Gianyar, It is a nature education centre for all ages, Get up close to some world’s most exotic animals and don’t miss chance to feed them as well as to take photo with many tame animals. On the way to the park, some stops will be done to visit a traditional hand-made batik painting, continue to visit a well known village of talented gold and silversmiths at Celuk village and the stone carving village at Batubulan.

    Entrance fee to BALI ZOO is a compulsory.

    Barong Dance and Kuta Beach Tour

    Half day morning tour to enjoy the performance of Balinese sacred dance called Barong Dance. Its represent the eternal fight between good and evil. Barong is a mythological animal represents good spirit while rangda is an evil one. Soon after the dance, will be accompanied to witness the hustle and bustle of Kuta area the most famous tourist resort in Bali. The stretched beaches of Kuta with so many visitors from all over the world enjoying their swimming, sun bathing, surfing, massage and any other activities. There are many art shops selling Balinese handicrafts good for souvenirs / collection, department stores, money changers, banks, restaurants, bars, night life entertainments.

    Uluwatu Temple + Kecak Dance 

    It is an ancient temple of ULUWATU, located on top of the cliff jutting out to the sea, hundreds of meters above the Indian ocean. At 6.15pm to see an evening performance of KECAK is Bali’s most dramatic dance performance popularly known as monkey dance, enacted by a group of over 100 men, dance is concentric circle. The story is taken from ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana. It starts at 18.00pm for one hour duration.

    Uluwatu Temple + Kecak Dance + BBQ set seafood Dinner & Lobster

    An evening performance of one hour duration starts at 6.00pm. Kecak is Bali’s most dramatic dance performance popularly known as monkey dance, enacted by a group of over 100 men, dance is concentric circle. The story is taken from ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Soon after the performance, You will be accompanied to have BBQ set seafood dinner includes Lobster on the beach of Jimbaran.

    Denpasar City 

    Morning tour to visit Museum of Struggle for Bali (Bajrasandi Museum) in Renon Denpasar located in front of Bali Governor office. Proceed to visit BALI MUSEUM to see a splendid collection of Balinese arts and artifacts from prehistoric to present times (Bali Museum close on Mondays).

    Bali Package Tour

    Are you looking for a perfect getaway to the island of Bali? Do you want to experience the rich culture, stunning scenery, and diverse activities that this destination has to offer? If so, then you should book a Bali package tour with us!

    A Bali package tour is a convenient and affordable way to explore the best of Bali without any hassle. You can choose from a variety of packages that suit your budget, preferences, and schedule. Whether you want to relax on the beach, visit ancient temples, enjoy nature, or have some adventure, we have a package for you!

    Some of the benefits of booking a Bali package tour with us are:

    • You get to stay in comfortable and well-equipped hotels that are located near the main attractions.
    • You get to enjoy delicious meals that showcase the local cuisine and flavors.
    • You get to travel with a friendly and knowledgeable guide who will show you around and share interesting facts and stories.
    • You get to participate in fun and exciting activities that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable.

    Some of the activities that you can expect from a Bali package tour are:

    • Snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters and discovering the colorful marine life.
    • Hiking or cycling through the lush green rice terraces and tropical forests.
    • Visiting the sacred and historical sites such as Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, and Besakih temples.
    • Watching the traditional dances and performances such as Kecak, Barong, and Legong.
    • Shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts at the local markets and villages.

    And much more!

    Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of Bali. Book your Bali package tour with us today and get ready for an unforgettable holiday!