Winter Destinations: India

Winter is one of the best seasons in India for travel and vacationing. Breathtaking beauty of Himalayan mountains, ample snowfall, panoramic natural views, frozen lakes, bonfire, winter festivals, adventure sports, and skiing facilities make India a popular winter destination for all sections of tourists with diverse flavors. 

Broadly speaking there are two types of vacation preferences in winter- destinations which have a warm climate and destinations which have heavy snowfall during the winter season. The diversified land of India offers both the extremes at the same time, thus making it a prime attraction for both domestic and international tourists looking to revitalize their mind, body, and soul.

There are a wide array of options available for tourists who are looking to experience a dream winter vacation in India. Some of the famous tourist destinations to travel during the winter season are:

Auli

Auli is an important ski destination in the Himalayan mountains of Uttarakhand, India. Auli is also known as a 'bugyal' in the regional language which means meadow. Some experts consider Auli to be one of the best ski resorts in the world. Auli is less known ski destination than Shimla, Gulmarg or Manali. It was only in the recent time, after the creation of new state Uttarakhand(formerly Uttaranchal) carved out from Uttar Pradesh, Auli was marketed as a tourist destination. The state is called "Dev Bhoomi" which means "Land of Gods" as there are important pilgrimage destination in this state mainly the 'Char Dham'(Gangotri-Yamunotri-Kedarnath-Badrinath). Auli lies on the way to Badrinath. Auli is blessed with a breathtaking panoramic view of the lofty peaks of the greatest mountain range in the world, the Himalayas. The slopes here provide enough thrill to professional skier and novice as well. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited (GMVNL) a govt agency which takes care of this resort have imported snow beater to maintain slopes. Auli also boasts the Asia's longest - 4 km - cable car (Gondola). It also has a Chair Lift and a Ski-Lift. Apart from Skiing there is an interesting trek route also. There is a training facility of Indo-Tibetan Border Police. A small temple having connection to great epic Ramayana is also present. Best time to visit is last week of Jan to first week of March for skiing. Though weather is highly unpredictable.

  

Gulmarg

 

  Gulmarg popularly known as "Meadow of Flowers" is the most frequented winter destination of India. The gorgeous hill resort is easily accessible from Srinagar (56 kms from Srinagar) where regular bus services and tourist taxis are available to reach Gulmarg. The buses go till Tangmarg which is 11 kms from Gulmarg and the remaining distance can be covered by smaller vehicles and tourist taxis.

The journey to the Gulmarg offers nothing but a spectacular experience to travelers - wide roads, snow-clad mountains, thick forests, fruit laden orchards and picturesque villages holding vast expanses of rice and maize fields. No wonder that Gulmarg has been the venue of several films in the past.

Gulmarg is dotted with countless sites of interest for the tourists. Snow covered hills, splendid lakes, beautiful flower valley covered with colorful Daisies, Bluebells, wild flowers, Forget Me Not's and Buttercups, and scenic pastorals are perfect for sightseeing, adventure and relaxation. Gulmarg is also India's popular Ski Resort which hosts world's highest gondola ski lift. The skiing season lasts from November to February. Gulmarg also has the highest golf course in the world. Tourists are offered short term memberships by the golf club to play in the Golf Course. Other adventure sport available is Trekking, Horse riding.

Haflong

Haflong is a hill station in Assam also referred as the land of blue hills. Haflong is connected by road and air from Guwahati, around 353 kms. from Guwahati by road. Deluxe buses run from Main Road, Hamringdi cinema for Silchar and Guwahati. The other nearest metro for getting to Haflong is Kolkata. Lower Haflong has a railway station with a slow and scenic ride to Lumding, Silchar, and Dharmanagar.

Haflong is famous for its scenic features comprising of azure blue mountains, cascading waterfalls, emerald green rivers, pleasing orchards of oranges, pineapple gardens, unique orchids such as Blue Vanda, and rare species of birds. Jatinga, a popular bird watching center is a haven for hundreds of migratory birds in winter. November to February is the best season to spend some quality time at Haflong as Wild orchids, orange orchards and pineapple gardens are at their best. The green valley and the hilly treks at Borai hills are hotspots of adventure tourism events like hang gliding, Para-gliding and Trekking. 

Shimla

Nestled between the lofty snow-capped Himalayan peaks; draped in forests of pine, rhododendron, and oak; and surrounded by lush green pastures and lakes, Shimla offers an unforgettable travel experience. 

Shimla is well connected to major cities by air, rail, and road. There are connecting flights from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Kullu to Shimla. Delux bus services shuttle between Shimla and Delhi, Kalka, Chandigarh,Dehradun, Ludhiana, Ambala, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Jammu and other towns in Haryana and Punjab. Shimla is connected by train to Kalka which has direct rail connections with Delhi, Calcutta and Amritsar. There are taxi services available between Shimla and Kalka. 

Shimla enjoys heavy snowfall from December to January which make it a perfect destination for snow lover tourists and winter sports enthusiasts from across the world. One can savor gorgeous sights such as planes and hills covered with white blanket, cascading waterfalls, fruit laden orchards, and verdant hills. All in all Shimla gives you an excellent opportunity to reconnect with nature. For tourists Shimla boasts of a wide range of deluxe and budget hotels and accommodation options.

You can also plan to visit churches, temples, colonial mansions, and markets during your tour to the hill station. Tourists are presented with an unprecedented view of erstwhile colonial era in the city. The city retains its colonial charm in the form of ancient heritage buildings, museums and churches which are preserved in their original neo-gothic architecture. Shimla is also a major hub for major adventure sports activities such as Fishing, Golfing, Mountaineering, Paragliding, Ice Skating, Skiing , and Trekking.

Main tourist spots in Shimla are Himachal State Museum & Library, Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens, The Ridge, The Mall, Chadwick Falls, Elysium Hill, Annandale, The Mall, Dorje Drag Monastery, and Prospect Hill. Religious places to visit are Christ Church & St. Michael's Cathedral, Jakhoo Temple, Sankat Mochan, Kali Bari, and Tara Devi.

The city also offers an enjoyable shopping experience to shopaholics. Markets of Shimla offer some of the best collection of small souvenirs, knick-knacks, exclusive handmade decoratives, utility pieces, wooden shawls, sweaters, and other artifacts. Popular shopping places in Shimla are Mall Road, Himachal Emporium, Minchys, DOCKERS San Francisco, Minerva Book House, Lower Bazar, and Lakkar Bazar (for wooden souvenirs). To sum up, a magnificent destination for snow capped mountains, nature walks, religious and cultural feasts, and thrilling winter sports - Shimla is a million dollar worth of experience. 

Goa

This is the time of year when most of India is booking tickets for their winter vacations. And often their best option is Goa. Goa - the land of enchanting beaches is a winter destination which is second to none in India. The getaway beaches of Calangute, Baga, Vagatore and Palolem can help you escape winter and warm your spirit in the sun and relax your mind. Goa is a host to numerous winter festivals. You can indulge yourself in Goan festivities like the Goa Heritage Festival, Feast of the Three Kings, the Konkani Drama Festival and enjoy all the fun and frolic that happens. Goa is a heaven for ocean-lovers who could indulge in - sunbathing, swimming, yachting, surfing, or simply reclining on a lounger on the golden sands with a drink. 

Jaisalmer

The desert festival in Jaisalmer was started to attract foreign tourists, who always wanted to explore as many facets of Rajasthan as they could in the possible crunch of time. The three-day event stresses more on local elements and heritage. For example, this no-nonsense festival will only showcase Rajasthani folk songs and dance. These are presented by some of the best professionals of the art. Similarly, local customs such as Turban tying etc have been added to make it more exotic and colorful in its outlook. 'The moustache competition' is very popular among foreigners. This is simply because of the surprise value attached to this event. Foreigners can be seen posing for pictures with the winners. This is truly a moment worth preserving. 

You will never forget marvels like the famous Gair and Fire dancers that are the major attraction of the desert festival celebrations. Interesting contests including a tying competition and a Mr. Desert contest further enhance the fun of the occasion. A trip to the Sam sand dunes marks the grand finale, where you will enjoy camel rides and brilliant performance by the folk artist under the full moon against the backdrop of picturesque dunes.

  

Backwaters of Kerala: 

Kerala is aptly called ‘God’s own country’.. Kerala also score high in tourism industry. Geographically Kerala can be divided into Eastern highlands, Central midlands and western lowlands. Such is the diversity of landforms. It is also in the biodiversity hot spot regions. Kerala entertains various kinds of tourist year round. But the famous Kerala Backwaters are most popular destination during this season. Backwaters are unique of Kerala.

Backwaters cover a network of 1500 km of canals both man made and natural, 38 rivers and 5 big lakes all over Kerala. It was traditionally used as means of transportation by the locals to navigate the unique water bodies. Today it is being used innovatively to give whole new experience of exploring the beautiful landscapes of Kerala while enjoying the peaceful stay inside the boat Hotels. The most popular and easily navigable Backwaters are Vembanad backwater, Astamudi Lake and Kannur-Valiyaparambu Backwaters.

Exclusive Thailand !!!!!

In the month of celebration.....Go and party on the most vibrant place near you....
Its Chirstmas time....
And Its Thailand calling!!!!!!

Spice up your life with INDIA!!!

We are very busy. Busy in home...in office…Always running short of time…Now these day we really get a very short time to spend with our family, friends and loved ones. In this case the only way to take out a sound time for all our own is VACATION!!! A sky high mountain or a deep blue sea or it also can be dark green forest...all these are very much mind refreshing as its own way. Personally I think, being a traveler...it’s very important for day to day life also. A regular life becomes very monotonous. Life should not be like that. It should be filling with every possible Spice. India is a country which is enriched with its enormous treasure. India always offers its visitors with different tastes every time. We can find everything in one place. Throughout ages many people from many races come and stay here. And India always embraces its visitant. Its cultural heritages always hypnotize everyone.

India is world’s largest, oldest civilization. Its also the largest English speaking nation. Its contain 28 states with 7 union territory with 2nd highest population in the world. Every states of India hold its own identity. It will be a visual treat to my readers that in coming posts I am going to give you all the best spots in India.

Traveling

All my bags are pack and I’m ready to go…”

It’s a famous song...And whenever I listen this...a nice destination comes in front of my eyes. Our mother nature is very much enriched with her exquisite beauty.  Being a true traveler..Always try o explore the hidden beauty.  Travelling is what we do best to spend our leisure time. It should be very special with every possible best thing. The hotels.Transport…food… and most importantly all in a good package is very much wanted for all travelers. There are few things we should always remember while traveling.

Staying Healthy

here are some general suggestions to help you keep in top shape while traveling:
Traveling is always a pleasure. Enjoy your holidays with us..As we serve our customer with their dreams only. And always in Royal Touch!!!!

·         Do some medical research before going overseas. Find out whether the countries you are visiting require vaccinations and whether preventive measures or inoculations are mandatory or advisable.

·         You can get international traveler's health information

·         Pack an extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses, and take along a copy of your prescription, written in metric measurements. Also take contact lens supplies, as they may not be available overseas.

·         Wear a bracelet or other medical identification if you have diabetes, an allergy to penicillin, or any other condition that may require emergency care.

·         Keep medicines in their original containers to avoid problems with customs duties.

·         Eat what you can digest easily.

Travel Health Insurance

·         Travel insurance is very much essential now these days.

·         Several companies now offer various health plans to cover emergency medical costs, emergency air-ambulance service, hotel and incidental expenses for those named in the insurance coverage, and outpatient treatment.

·         Check your insurance policy's overseas coverage.

Always carry your identity proof. And other important things which can be require while traveling.

Bangkok

My Holiday Makers India Pvt ltd comes with amazing deals for you. We offer best of Thailand as one requires. There are many exotic packagers with best price. And as you serve our customer since long we belief that Travel should be in a Royal way……

Bangkok is always being our strong point. Its Cultural phenomenon, shopping heaven and tourist treasure. Welcome to Bangkok; one of the most cosmopolitan, contrasting and, above all, compelling of Asian cities. A steamy, pulsating, yet smiling metropolis of more than ten million – intense at first, but addictive as anything. Come find your niche among dazzling temples, hotels of every breed and size, eclectic markets, gleaming palaces, ritzy shopping malls, a famous nightlife and the many things in between.

Enjoy a memorable dinner cruise adrift the Chao Phraya River. Bask in the city’s warm, affluent glow at a skyscraping rooftop bar. Experience all the things – tuk-tuk ride, ladyboy show, Muay Thai (kickboxing) match, Thai massage – everyone always comes home talking about.

Siam ocean world:

 Your journey into the Big Blue begins with a prelude at the ‘Weird and Wonderful’ zone, which houses an impressive collection of rare and bizarre-looking marine creatures, such as striped frogfish, garden eel, nautiluses and gigantic spider crabs.

  

Madame Tussauds:

 Here’s your chance to brush shoulders with your favourite Hollywood stars, local celebrities, sports heroes and heroines, even heads of state. Madame Tussauds has opened its 10th attraction in Bangkok, with a revolutionary concept – the wax museum with exhibits you can touch, hug, play with and even kiss.   

Bangkok City Tours:

 Discover the unique beauty of Bangkok with one of our specially picked sight-seeing tours. From the city's most splendid temples to its evocative floating markets, we have all the excursions you need to discover Bangkok's awe-inspiring beauty and endless charms.

Bangkok Dream World:

 With a day out at Dream World you and the kids will get to experience the spectacular atmosphere of this huge amusement park, and enjoy the exciting shows and rides at its four lands of dream. Set in beautifully landscaped gardens, there are linked paths, pools, legendary castles and more than 15 exciting rides for everyone to explore.

Tiger Temple:

 “Tiger Temple” is a nickname for Wat Pha Luang Ta Bua at Kanchanaburi, Thailand. It is one of the most fastinating wildlife sanctuary where humans and tigers can live together with peace and brotherhood.

Floating Markets:

Even though transactions are more concerned with tourists rather than locals these days, the floating market;boats are still piled high with tropical fruit and vegetables, fresh, ready-to-drink coconut juice and local food cooked from floating kitchens located right on the boat.

Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise:

 Being the first under the Chao Phraya Cruise family, this luxurious cruise ship of its kind has catered to guests from around the world, including foreign VIPs and dignitaries. Capable of welcoming up to 290 persons, the Chao Phraya Cruise offers one of the most memorable dinner cruise experiences down the spectacular Chao Phraya River.

  

PATTAYA

Alcazar Cabaret Show:

 Extravagant costumes, convincingly stunning ladyboys, spectacular stage sets are all part of a grander show that delights you with non-stop fantasmic entertainment, from the Russian stage to K-Pop to Persian harlem and even outer space. Whether you are in for the beautiful ‘ladies’ or the show, you’ll get your money worth at Alcazar.

Coral Island:

 Only two hours from Bangkok, the beautiful beaches of Koh Larn - an idyllic island located just west of Pattaya - make a perfect day-trip. Known as Coral Island and covering an area of about 4 square kilometres, you spend the day swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. Enjoy the abundant coral and underwater world, Price includes travel to and from Pattaya, transfer by boat to Koh Larn and Thai lunch.

Elephant village:

 The Elephant Village was opened in 1973 as a sanctuary for former working elephants. These elephants, through reasons of injury or ill health, can no longer be used as a part of the backbone of heavy work in the jungles of Thailand. Also because of their diminishing habitat, it is now longer possible to return them to the wild.

Tiger Zoo:

 Zoo consists of more than 200 Bengal tigers and 100,000 crocodiles. In addition to various kinds of animals, it also provides many activities for tourists to enjoy. Visitors can experience natural touch and enjoy the company of tamed animals closely.

Nong Nooch:

Enjoy spectacular Thai cultural performances, featuring elegant costumes, music and graceful dance movements, parades and a string of talent shows by a lovely troupe of Thai elephants. A wide range of recreational activities, including elephant riding, bicycling, boat paddling, or simply strolling from one botanical garden to another, ensure a great time for everyone in your party.

Mini Siam Tour:

Around the world in 80 days? Make it one! See all the world's wonders as well as Thailand's popular attractions at Mini Siam, where nearly a hundred replicas of famous sites worldwide - from the Temple of the Emerald Buddha to the Statue of Liberty - are displayed.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not:

 Housed on the third floor of Royal Garden Plaza, the Ripley’s museum features more than 300 exhibits inside 10 individually themed galleries inspired by Robert Leroy Ripley’s books “Believe It or Not!”. Designed to balance among the three elements – strange, shocking and beautiful – the museum will blow your mind away with objects and people you never thought existed on this planet. And if you leave the museum doubting whether what you’ve just seen actually exist in real life, you haven’t seen enough of the world yet.

PHUKET

Phi Phi Island:

 The Phi Phi Islands are some of the world's most beautiful and even though they are almost always very busy with visitors from all around the world they still remain resolutely Thai. This means that things are very different from back home and that Thai traditions and cultural values very much apply. Have a look at our handy hints below to get a brief sketch of how things are on Phi Phi.

James Bond Island:

 James Bond Island is a ‘must see’ destination which many people recommend. Most people reach the island by tour. The tours do often include a lunch at Koh Panyi which is a step in the right direction. There are some genuinely beautiful sights to be seen. I advice Just Do it… despite everything, it’s an enjoyable trip!

Phuket Island & City Tour:

 This tour gives an insight into the highlights of the 'Pearl of the Andaman'. It also includes a leisurely drive around Phuket Town to view the Sino-Portuguese style buildings. Other attractions visited are Wang Thalang Lapidary gem factory, Mookda Herbal Centre, Wat Chalong, Phuket's most beautiful and renowned monastery, the Sea Gypsy Village at Rawai Beach, a Cashew Nut Factory where you may sample the culinary delights on offer and the famous sunset viewpoint at Promthep Cape one of the most beautiful panoramas on the island.

Fantacia Show:

 Phuket Fantasea is Thailand’s best attraction show it’s a big theme park located or Kamala Beach, just 9 kms from Patong Beach and 30 kms from Phuket town.

Phuket Fantasea was created by creators of Safari World, Thailand’s most popular animal and Leisure Park. Phuket Fantasea not only Showcases the charm and beauty of Thailand, but also enriches ancient Thai traditions with the wonder of cutting edge technology and special effect. The result is a stunning 140 – acre theme park, packed with a multitude of activities and entertainment.

Simon Cabaret:

It’s a spectacular display of colour, originality and fun. Phuket’s Simon Cabaret has become one of Southeast Asia’s outstanding entertainment attractions drawing a thousand enthused visitors from around the world each evening. A single show runs the entire range of musical theatre from cultures around the world.

Koh phangan:

Koh Phangan, is famous  for “Full Moon Party”; Natural beauty and crystal clear waters beautiful beaches, backed by dense forest, causing a variety of outdoor activities including diving, snorkeling, hiking and bird life to observe the living conditions of local villagers.

Koh Samui

 Twenty years ago, only a few intrepid backpackers visited the island. Today, Koh Samui is a cosmopolitan melting pot, attracting budget travelers staying for a month or two in simple beachside fan bungalows, to the mega rich, dropping in for a weekend at a luxury resort or villa on the beach. Koh Samui is unique among Thailand's islands in maintaining a broad appeal for everyone. This helps to give the distinctive relaxed atmosphere that sets it apart. Everyone is welcome.

Chiang mai:

 The ancient city of Chiang Mai is a travel guide favorite, mainly because it oozes culture and history with its pretty moat, crumbling bastions and ruined pagodas at every turn. Staying among the old town lanes offers an authentic taste of provincial Thailand, with centuries-old temples, bustling street markets and cozy guesthouses and coffee shops on every corner. Then there are soft adventure trips to mountain national parks and waterfalls nearby, trekking, elephant riding, family attractions and more. Shopping is another notable advantage in Chiang Mai, along with very affordable hotels and restaurants.

Chiang rai:

 Mountainous and alluring, Chiang Rai is one of the best spots to do trekking in Thailand. The provincial capital of the same name is home to a wide range of excellent accommodation, from five-star international hotels to cheap backpacker guesthouses, as well as some great eating spots with most cuisines covered and swish Western/Thai style coffee houses.

The best and most suitable time to visit this exotic place is November to March. Though through out the whole year this place keeps it self very much welcomed to the visitors. Bangkok is located in the basin of the Chao Phraya River and has no mountains. The land is crisscrossed with canals and rivers.

As the capital of the country, Bangkok is the centre of administration, commerce and communications. The city is divided into 50 districts. Bangkok is the centre of all kinds of goods, both domestic and imported. Govt of Thailand is very strict about their rules and regulations. Travel insurance is also become a necessary part for travelling. Other rules must be follow during traveling in Bangkok like.

• Cigarette Smoking Scam

• Always Lock Up Your Motorbike

• Make Taxi Drivers Use the Meter

• Don’t Pay Entrance at the Full Moon Party

• Careful When Renting Motorbikes

• Don’t Ask for Recommendations

ü  Use Odd Amounts at the ATM

ü  Using Travelers Checks in Thailand

ü  Leave the Price Tag on Books

ü  Refuse Torn Notes

ü  Get Travel Insurance

ü  Wear Your Helmet

ü  Spoken language: Thai, English

ü  Phone/calling code: +66

 Bangkok is a City of colors,beaches and festivals..so...

ENJOY!!!

Malaysia

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia, located partly on a peninsula of the Asian mainland and partly on the northern third of the island of Borneo. West (peninsular) Malaysia shares a border with Thailand, is connected by a causeway and a bridge (the 'second link') to the island state of Singapore, and has coastlines on the South China Sea and the Straits of Malacca. East Malaysia (Borneo) shares borders with Brunei and Indonesia.

Kaula lampur City Tour

Despite the growing skyline of a modern metropolis, Kuala Lumpur has always been charming and full of character. 

  

Genting Island

Officially known as Resorts World Genting and a self-proclaimed City of Entertainment, Genting is Malaysia's low-budget, family-friendly, sanitized attempt at Las Vegas. The primary draw is that Genting is the only place where you can gamble legally in Malaysia, but there's also a theme park to keep the kids amused.

Sunway Theme Park

Sunway Lagoon, Malaysia's premier theme park is strategically
located in the township of Bandar Sunway in Petaling Jaya.
Spanning over 80 acres, the Lagoon offers fun seekers from all
over, fascinating lands of excitement. Visit World of Adventure, Wild
Wild West and the all-new Waters of Africa. A place for families and
friends.

  

Lankawi city tour

From mythical giants to giant crocodiles and duty-free shopping to traditional handicrafts, Langkawi holds many places of interest for the adventurous. There’s simply so much to see and do in Langkawi that it certainly warrants a return trip!

Penang City Tour

Penang has perhaps the largest and well preserved colonial-era old town, with excellent examples of Chinese clan houses, colonial homes, public buildings and private mansions. Visit Chew Jetty, Little India and exciting Chinatown, and make a stop at the world famous Royal Selangor. Before the day is over stop at Wat Chayamankalaram to see the big reclining Buddha.