When is Holi Celebrated?

The festival marks the end of winter and beginning of spring. The day after the full moon in March each year. In West Bengal and Odisha, the festival falls on a day before. In some of the northern regions such as Mathura and Vrindavan, the festival is celebrated for a week long.

How is it celebrated?

At most of the places, people spend the day spreading colored powder and colored water on each other’s faces, having parties, having to get together, and dancing under water sprinklers. Many people consume drinks made from Bhang (AKA cannabis). In places, Mathura, Vrindavan, and surrounding areas, people celebrate the festival for over five days, during which along with throwing colors, ladies beat men with a stick. This is the festival full of fun, energy, and enthusiasm.

 Rituals of Holi

There is a story behind Holi. The word “Holi” has come from from “Holika”, the evil sister of demon king Hiranyakaship. Hiranyakaship was virtually immortal. Due to this power, he becomes arrogant and began to consider himself as god and asked everyone to worship him. However, Prahlada – Son of Hiranyakaship disagreed. He was the devotee to Lord Vishnu and continued to worship him only. So, in order to kill Prahlada, Holika – Prahlada’s evil aunt – tricked him into sitting on fire with her. As the fire roared, the cloak worn by Holika flew away from her and encased Prahlada. Eventually, Holika was burned, Prahlada survived. Therefore, the bonfire is the symbolic victory of good over evil. Holi is celebrated by burning of demoness Holika. On the eve of Holi day, a ritual named Holika Dahan, in which bon fire is created to burn away Holika and this process is believed to burn away all the negativity around. Along with this, a special puja is performed, people sing and dance around the fire, and walk around it three times.

In different parts of the country, this beautiful festival of colors is celebrated in different manners, however, the spirit remains the same. Holi is a very light-hearted festival that’s great fun to join. You’ll end up soaked in water, with colour all over your skin and clothes. Now-a-days, people use organic colours to play around during the festival. The whole idea is to have fun and saturate people with colours and love.

It’s a unique festival, which burns away the negativity and brings people closer. During this vibrant festival of colours, people forget about their grudges and pour their love in the form of colours. There is much more to the festival when is experienced.

Come, celebrate this vibrant festival of India. If you want to explore the amazing places where Holi is celebrated in a unique manner Destino’s India with being your partner to help you discover the Liveliness of this festival.

1. Don’t be alone at night

Indian cities do have a great nightlife but even in those cities, there are areas where you should not go at night alone. These areas could be even more dangerous if you are a woman. Try to be with someone trustworthy all the time after sunset.

2. Don’t go somewhere unknown

In a vast place like India, you will find spots and areas looking quite different. Even if the temptation arises, try not to be at the places where you are not supposed to be. Also, when going to places like these be sure that people close to you know where you are going.

3. Learn emergency numbers

There are some universal helpline numbers all over India, but sometimes you should be extra careful and try to learn the helpline numbers like a police department, etc. these local numbers will definitely help you in times of emergency or when you feel threatened.

4. Carry back-up devices

Whenever going on a trip anywhere in the world, this is a given. You should always be carrying a power bank and some emergency connecting devices. Don’t ever go out of your hotel room without your mobile phone that too with its battery almost full. The GPS features should also help your loved ones know where you are at that point in time.

5. Use public transport carefully

Since everywhere you go, you cannot get a rented vehicle. In those places, you have to travel by public transport. Now, in metro cities public transport is good but as you go deeper into India, public transport is a bit of a problem. Always try not to show that you might not belong there. Also, if you are a woman, you should travel only in a woman’s compartment in trains.

6. Don’t trust anyone

This is a life advice on every possible situation in life. Don’t ever trust some stranger and be complacent. Even when someone calls you and you don’t know the person, try to make the conversation as small as possible. Don’t try to get along with people who seem dangerous.

7. Try to gauge your surrounding

When in a new place, you always try to tend to look for certain things like what local people do in various situations. For example, people in India try not to escalate a situation when they are alone and women generally ignore the catcalling which is common in some other parts of the world. So, in a situation like these, it is better to follow certain things.

8. Stay in a safe hotel

All these things and suggestions are well and good only if the hotel you are living in is a safe one. It is very easy to find cheap accommodation in India but here the safety should take priority and the reviews and recommendations should be taken from a trusted source.

These are some of the tips which you should keep in mind when Traveling in India. These will help you to be safe in an exotic yet sometimes a little overwhelming country.

Apparently, the concept of hot air balloons is a relatively new one in India. It has created excitement and curiosity among people. As more people come to know about it, the more popular it became and is now getting a place as one of the rising tourist activities in the country. Despite the increasing popularity, there are very few places in India that offer an opportunity for ballooning.

Here is a list of destinations where you can have the best of the best experiences of Hot Air Balloon Rides in India

 1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

The exotic balloon ride is accorded at Taj Mahal. This is one of the dreamiest excursions with some enviable views. The amazing view of the magnificent Mughal monuments and of course, the visionary sight of the Taj in all its glory is something which cannot be put in words. Even though the rides are a little different here – the balloon is at a low height which rises to about 500m, provides a spectacular and close vision of magnificent structures.

Travel in Agra

 2. Pushkar, Rajasthan

Riding in a balloon at Pushkar during the famous annual Pushkar fair is an exciting and a must-do activity which is hugely popular among the travellers. A ride during such an event over soaring sky and watching the largest gathering of cattle on planes make this one of the finest experience of hot air balloon rides in India. The delight of travelling over hundreds of people, numerous camps over dunes, sight of the holy lake, and all the other beautiful destinations is awe-inspiring.

 3. Lonavala, Maharashtra

Lonavala, Maharashtra is an ideal getaway for Mumbaikars. Hot air balloon rides are available from Kamshet near Lonavala. Lonavala and its surroundings offer a scenic, quaint view. Adorned with dense greenery, sturdy forests, caves, lakes, and dams, Lonavala is the perfect destination to indulge in recreational activities.

 4. Jaipur, Rajasthan

When you fly over the most beautiful and breath-taking palaces, Haveli, forts, and buildings above the beautiful Pink City, it will turn out to be an amazing and incredible experience. It is one of the favourite pastimes for tourists from India and abroad as well. It is one of the must-do activities while you are visiting the capital of India’s most picturesque. This beautiful North-Western state beholds the awesome sight of palaces, forts, colourful bazaars, and ever-changing landscape which you will cherish forever.

Travel in Jaipur

 5. Goa

Besides being the perfect combination of sun, sand, and sea; Goa has a number of recreational activities to offer to its visitors. One of them being – Hot Air Ballooning.

This amazing ride will provide you with a 360-degree view of the gorgeous landscapes of Goa.You can also witness the unusual sight of sunrise or sunset from distant horizons of the sea which will surely be a memorable experience.

Travel in Goa

Besides the listed places, you can also experience this beautiful activity at Manali, Delhi, NCR, Bhopal, Darjeeling, and Karnataka. Grab the first opportunity and have the best time with your friends and family.

Travel in India

College is one phase where you are neither a small kid nor an adult. And thus, meeting new people, seeing new things, and traveling to different parts of the country can really shape you as a person.

Here’s a list of destinations that you should definitely visit with your college friends.

1. Live your Jawani in Manali

Although, Manali is more popular for honeymoon, however, this is the time when you certainly have someone special or better, a group of friends in your life. In such a scenario, a trip to Manali can turn out to be amazing. And of course, it is the favorite destination of Bollywood and you too will have a big suitcase filled with memories. You can experience thrilling activities with your friends like that of river rafting, skiing, and paragliding to name a few.

2. Hit the Roads of Leh

This is the perfect trip for a group of friends regardless of their choices in life. It’s evident that no one ever returns disappointed from Leh.

The best time to go is while you are in college because after college it becomes quite difficult to get everyone together at the same time. And also, this is the time where you can cut yourselves some slack and try to find some meaning in life.

3. Experience the Adrenaline Rush in Rishikesh

This can be a trip where you wash away all the sins in the sacred and thrilling Ganges. The rapids in Rishikesh bring adventure seekers from across the globe. Embarking on a raft in the rapids of Rishikesh takes up a lot of courage and spurt of adrenaline. And you have this courage in college years and not while you’re working with all the responsibilities on your shoulders.

4. City of Dreams – Mumbai

As the name is self-explanatory, Mumbai is where people come from across the country to make a name for their own. This trip will help you to understand the competition and the race of mankind in the truest way possible.

Your Mumbai trip will be incomplete if you do not hope on a local train – uncomfortable yet productive experience.

Plus, college years are the best time to come to terms with real-life struggles. Walk around the streets of Mumbai and you will be able to compare the glitz with the struggle.

5. Dil Chahta Hai? Mumbai-to-Goa Road trip

Goa – It is that one destination that is on the bucket list of every college student. A road Trip to Goa from Mumbai and mimicking the same shots from DilChahta Hai is actually fun. Goa is the perfect place for both kinds of friends – party lovers and peace seekers.

Goa is not a place to be visited with girlfriend/boyfriend, I mean it’s not that much fun. It is best with your college gang.

Traveling is a beautiful experience and as you go along the way you make friendships that will last a lifetime. These trips will not only make you feel independent but also will change you in away.

Tell your squad to stop planning and actually just go for it since you go to college once in your life and these golden days won’t come back.

Enjoy the time before it slips from your hand!

Travel in India

Well, to take this experience at a whole new level, you have the luxury trains of India at your disposal. These trains will glam up your trip and would take you back to the times of royalty.

These elite luxurious trains of India cater to tourists who are willing to explore the rich cultural heritage of India. The grandeur is evident from out of the box interiors, majestic ambiance, lavish gastronomical fare, stringent security arrangements, and everything you can ever imagine.

Journeys in the luxurious trains comfort travelers and allow them to explore popular tourist destinations of India. These trains will offer a one-of-a-kind experience to uncover the several facets of Indian culture.

Here is a list of luxury trains which run and are maintained by the Indian Railways -

 1. Maharajas’ Express

This is the most expensive luxury train in India, owned and operated by IRCTC. The train runs between October and April and covers around 12 destinations, most of which are in Rajasthan. It offers a range of five itineraries between the months of October and April. This includes the experience of meeting the members of the Royal Family, attending the elephant polo, visiting the temples of Khajuraho, and many more.

 2. Fairy Queen Express

This is one of the oldest trains in India which provides luxury. What makes this train unique is that it is powered by the oldest serving steam locomotive which was built around 1855. The train has its own charm as it rambles through Alwar in Rajasthan.

 3. Palace on Wheels

This train is the pride of royal Rajasthan with lavish interiors that speak volumes regarding the regal Rajasthan. This train started back in 1982, based on the royal train coaches of the British era. The coaches used to be the personal coaches of erstwhile rulers of the Princely States.

Travel in Rajasthan

 4. Royal Orient Train

This train has the best combination of absolute chivalry and unimaginable opulence. The palatial-style cabins, well-trained professionals, multi-cuisine restaurants, spacious baths, library, and almost all of the facilities which you will find in a 5-star hotel, can be found in the Royal Orient Train as well.

 5. The Golden Chariot

This luxurious train is popular among the spots of South India, in the states of Karnataka, Goa, Pondicherry, and Tamil Nadu. While passing through the beautiful surroundings of luxury green forests and amazing waterfalls, you can not only enjoy royal accommodation but also avail the amazing offers such as spa treatments, restaurants, bars, among other facilities.

 6. The Deccan Odyssey

This train is inspired by the traditional traveling style of the kings and the rulers during different eras of ancient India. It is a five-star hotel on wheels that would take you to the amazing destinations in India.

The royal treatment for passengers, palace-like interiors of the cabins, lounges, conference car, an onboard spa, multi-cuisine restaurants, and all the other amenities which one can think of.

Well, next time when you plan a trip make ensure to take a journey in one of these royal trains to understand and to know what’s so surreal about them.

After all, experiences have the best answers. Experience royalty in trains and have an experience of a lifetime.

Before we start with the list of winter treks in India, it is essential to know the elements of a trek. The key elements of a trek are an adventure, beautiful sights, and experience.

Tighten your seat belts and be ready to go through the list of some amazing winter treks in India.

 1. Chadar Trek – Frozen River Zanskar Trek

The word Chadar means a blanket of snow (locally) and thus, the name ‘ice sheet on the river’.

This trek will be one of the most surreal and out of the box experiences you will ever experience. The Chadar Trek in Ladakh is one of the most challenging, exciting, and picturesque treks, though it is one of the toughest and adventurous, it will be worth all the efforts.

The place is surrounded by massive and steep mountainous walls. And the weather! It is severely cold and thus, requires you to be prepared 100% for the excursion.

The approximate distance covered is 70-100 kilometers and it takes about 7-9 days to complete the trek.

 2. Kuari Pass Trek

This is one of the most amazing treks which affords the traveler with the most incredible views of majestic Himalayas. You will also see peaks such as the Changabang, Dunagiri, Nanda Ghuti, Dronagiri, Neelkanth, and Rishi Pahar as well.

This trek is also known as Lord Curzon Trail. Well, this name is in honor of former British Viceroy of India, who was the first person to hike through it. On your way, the trek will passes will present you with beautiful landscapes.

The distance covered is approximately 33 kilometers and it takes 4-6 days to complete the trek.

 3. Nag Tibba Trek

The serpent’s peak or Nag Tibba is the highest peak in the range of Nag Tibba. Nag Tibba is one of the three principal ranges of the Lower Himalayas. The trek is characterized by picturesque and will offer you all the scenic views. You will see clear and unhindered sight of the beautiful Bandarpooch peak along with the group of peaks of Gangotri, Kedarnath, snowy crests of Chanabang and Doon Valley.

For beginners, it is one of the best winter treks in India. The trek is filled with the most mesmerizing flora you will ever come across. You will also pass through mix forests of Oak and Deodar where you will hear humming with a rich diversity of birds and animals.

The distance covered is approximately 16 kilometers and it takes 2-3 days to complete the trek.

 4. Dodital Trek

It is the dramatic and picturesque trail which is located at an incredible height. This trek involves most of the trek through the forest and you will pass through the most beautiful thickets of Oak, Rhododendron, Deodar, and Fin. In winters, you will witness the landscape capped entirely in snow and you will come across the stunning scenery from all around. The campsites are easy to access.

I have been to Dodital myself, and needless to say, it is one of the best trips I have ever had.

And if you are lucky enough (just like us), you will witness snow even in the month of April.

Also, there’s a temple nearby the Doditallake. Do not, I repeat DO NOT believe any stories which people or local people will come and tell you. Those stories are fake.

What are you waiting for? Get ready to embark on some of the beautiful journeys of your life. Explore the world, and experience something which you have only read in fables and adventure stories.

This city will provide you with serenity and sanctity in its true sense. The calmness of the city, its urban architecture attracts people from all over the globe.

If you are planning a trip to Pondicherry, you should definitely try out the things which we will be listing. The point is if you are going far for a vacation, make it count and make countless memories which you can reminisce for the rest of your life. There’s a lot more to do in Pondicherry other than sightseeing. One fact remains that irrespective of what you seek in this city, Pondicherry will never disappoint you!

And now, we will get to the list. There you go…

1. Boating at Chunnambar Backwater

Apart from the water sports at the beach, you can experience boating at the Chunnambar River. The Chunnambar Boathouse offers boat rides along the namesake river. You will have ab ethereal experience while boating through the serene backwaters. Your experience will be completed with a stunning view of the verdant beauty and exotic birds around the area. You will get both kinds of boats here – pedal and motor as well.

2. Scuba Diving

This city boasts of impressive water clarity and a wider range of marine life, and thus, one of the best places to go for scuba diving. You can plunge to depths of five to 40 meters, the sites of diving are perfect for both, newbies and pros. The divers will come across the finest sea creatures, including sea snakes, moray eels, manta rays, angelfish, and parrotfish, to name a few.

3. Explore French Colony on Two Wheels

Riding on two-wheelers is one of the best ways to explore Pondicherry. During the journey, you will see the diversity and rich cultural heritage and cycles through Tamil quarters, the French colonies, and Green quarters (Muslim quarters), followed by several historical and cultural places. You can also opt for the Heritage Walking Tour, which is given by English and French-speaking guides.

4. Pay Homage to the Valiant Soldiers at French War Memorial

French War Memorial, built-in 1971, is a tribute to all the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I. On July 14, every year, an annual remembrance is organized to honor the Bravehearts. You will see that this war memorial is one of the most impressive in our country.

5. Savor the Local Cuisine

Pondicherry is one of the best places for food lovers. The food scene, you will see is varied here, it is influenced by French, South India, European, and various other Western cuisines. Your trip will be incomplete if you won’t try its traditional South Indian fare and French cuisine.

6. Goubert Avenue

Pondicherry has a coastal location and the Goubert Avenue beach road is the perfect location for exciting and offbeat activities to do in Pondy, like strolling and leisure walking. You will see the seafront crowded with tourists, during sunrise and sunset. This is the best thing you can do for recreation, especially in the month of December when the weather is at its best. To ensure peaceful walking and hassle-free wandering for you, traffic is not allowed from 6:30 pm to 7:30 am.

Well, this was our list of things you should definitely try in Pondicherry. We hope you will have a great time there.

Have fun!

To make sure that you make the most of your holiday, we are today presenting you with a list of all the things which you will require at the beach.

Before enlisting, I will brief you with an overall plan. Light and breezy clothes should be the maximum among your wardrobe choices. Of course, you want to be comfortable, but it is a big NO to faded and ragged T-shirts. You should be aiming for a summer look which is polished and not at all dumpy. Take your time and think about how will you get wet and sandy items back home. The last thing you want is a suitcase full of sand!

On that note, let’s get directly to the list and ensure that you pack everything you require for a fun beach holiday.

1. Bikini/Swimsuit

Of course, this is an absolute must. However, we recommend you to pack two pairs of your bikini or swimsuit. Thus, you can wear one of them, while the other is getting dry.

2. Swim CoverUp or Sarong

This is another essential which is perfect for wearing down to the beach. Sarong, however, is more preferred since it covers up your shoulders as well as legs. The reason sarong is preferred in case you are visiting any temples or monasteries.

3. Flip Flops

Provided the fact that you will be spending most of your time at the beach or by the pool, a pair of flip flops become a must-have.

4. Water Shoes

At beaches, there can be a lot of rocks and coral. To protect your feet, it is recommended to pack a pair of slip-on mesh shoes.

5. Snorkel Set

If your destination has an amazing life underwater, you have to have a good quality snorkel kit. Of course, you can borrow or hire these kits, however, it is nice to have your own with the perfect fit.

6. Sunscreen

If your beach holiday is going to be all about spending time at the beach or by the pool, you need a good quality sunscreen to protect your face and body.

7. Sandals

These are perfect for walking around the town or if you are heading out for shopping or going out to dinner. A pair of sandals can also be used for light hikes.

8. Jacket

Since it gets a little cool and windy at night, you might also require a light jacket. A rain jacket can also be worth provided you are going to a location which often has downpours.

Well, this was our list of essentials which you will definitely require at the beach. You can also pack a floating device and sunglasses to capture the most amazing pictures of yours.

Take a great trip and wear off all the daily life tensions.

Have fun!

However, these are the ‘little creatures’ who can enhance the experience of your trip and also, it makes your trip even more fun. There are several places which you can visit with your kids to make the most out of their vacations. And one of the best places to make the most of with your kids is Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

However, even if people go to the Andaman Islands with their children, they aren’t sure of what to do with their kids there.

So here we are, presenting you with a list of possible fun activities which you can do with your kids in the Andaman Islands.

 1. Radhanagar Beach

This is one of the most splendid beaches in India with a scenic and forest-fringed stretch of sand. You can swim and snorkel here and also; you could escape the heat and relax in the shade of trees.

You will feel at peace while looking upon the turquoise waves splashing over the white powdery sand.

With all the necessary facilities available, there are not much of water sports or entertainment options available. Thus, you can sit back and enjoy the silence and let your kids have their own gala time.

 2. Children’s Traffic park

This park is situated near Marina Park, where you can explore all the fun and adventurous activitieswith your kids.

This park features miniature streets replete with roads, speed breakers, traffic lights, and traffic police. All this is arranged for children to understand and follow the traffic rules.

This park is flooded with tourists all the time during dusk and dawn for long strolls or a fun learning session for kids.

3. Corbyn Cove

This destination is scenic and is lined with coconut palms. Corbyn Cove provides you with several options for entertainment, which makes it accessible and often a crowded place on the water. You can swim, soak up some sun and make the most of the bars and restaurants around the area.

4. Samudrika Marine Museum

You can head to Samudrika Marine Museum where you can explore a diverse range of exhibits on display. The Indian navy manages this museum, and thus, the museum’s objective is to spread awareness about the environment in the ocean and the difficulties being faced by it.

You’ll find various informative sections in the museum where your kids can learn the history of the Andaman Islands and tribal communities. In addition to it, there’s information and history of area’s marine, plant, and animal life.

5. Chatham Saw Mill

You can head up to Chatham Saw Mill with your kids to make them learn about how workers produce timber to meet the local construction requirements. Japanese bombs destroyed this place during World War II, but it revived in the 1950s, salvaging the functional and reparable.

You can still examine the place where the bomb was dropped and thus, hire yourself a guide to get yourself a long history about the mill. Later, you can head to the museum to observe the photographs and artefacts.

Well, this is it with the list of what you can do with your children in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Let us know where you went and share your experience with us as well. And if you explore any other place where you can visit with your kids, do let us know as well.

This festival is usually celebrated in the months of September or October. The festivity goes on for ten days. At the end of these ten days, the idols of Goddess Durga along with the idols of some other Gods is immersed in water, marking the end of the festival.

Since it’s one of the most celebrated festivals, we present you with a list where you could find the most enthusiastic Durga Puja celebrations in our country.

 1. Kolkata

This city celebrates Durga Puja like no other city in India or in fact, the world. It is not only a mere religious celebration but also a fanfare which includes each household. It is the artistically decorated pandals, vast idols of Maa Durga, mouth-watering street food, and mesmerizing illuminations, all this adds up and turns Kolkata into a cheerful fantasy for those five days. One of the other traditional practices which happen in Kolkata is that of Bonedi Bari Puja at least one of the locations.

 2.Mumbai

If you’re feeling homesick and are missing out on the grand festivities of Bengal, you don’t worry. Mumbai dazzles during the five days of Durga Puja. The celebrations are not only for Bengalis who are missing out but also for Mumbaikars who love to see the Goddess in all her splendor. Thus, making Durga Puja extremely special in the city.

The decorated pandals in Mumbai will leave you astonished with their majesty and illuminations.

You’ll almost feel at home. 

 3. Delhi

The enchanting decorations, enthusiastic crowds, and hypnotizing music wait for a long time for MaaDurga at various pandals across Delhi. To experience the age-old Durga Puja rituals, you should go to Kashmere Gate Durga Puja Pandal or Timarpur and Civil Lines Pandal. And, make sure to carry your cameras around because you definitely don’t want to miss these spellbinding moments.

 4. Guwahati

People at Guwahati welcome MaaDurga with much enthusiasm and exhilaration. Once you’re at Guwahati during this time of the year, you will witness alluring pandals adorn the city, and the aroma of authentic Bengali delicacies fill the air. If not Bengal, then Guwahati is one of the best places to spend your night at pandal hopping during Durga Puja.

 5. Varanasi

Banaras or Varanasi, the holy city on the banks of Ganga, is another place which will leave you mesmerized during this time of the year. Since Varanasi is the spiritual capital of India, it welcomes Maa Durga with an unmatched fervor. The organizers of the pandals ensure that they have a surprise theme to please the Goddess as well as her devotees.

So if you’re unable to be with your family on this auspicious festival, make a note to visit one of these places and enjoy these festivals with your friends.

Wherever you go, give your festival an emotional end by bidding goodbye to the Goddess and wait for her to come back the next year!