7 Most Romantic Places in India

Two souls and an eternal bond for a lifetime, this beautiful relation is called marriage and a popular Hindu festival that celebrates this union is Karwachauth. It’s a one-day fast kept by Hindu women for long and healthy life of their husband. So, why not pamper the lovely wives this year and take them to an exquisite world of love and romance.

Here is The Suitcase’s recommendation of the 7 most romantic places in India.

1. Udaipur

The city of lakes is the proud owner of few most royal hotels in the world. The word luxury gets a new definition in Udaipur and the picturesque backdrop of majestic Aravalli hills and splendid lakes leaves you mesmerized. The city is also known as the “Venice of the East”.

2. Kashmir

Snow capped mountains, green countryside, rhythmic sound of fresh streams, fresh air and just the two of you – nothing can be more romantic than this. Known as the “Heaven on earth”, the beauty of Kashmir cannot be described in words. A ride in a Shikara in the Dal Lake is a must for every visitor.

3. Kerala

Popularly called as “God’s known country”, Kerala is probably one of the greenest states in India. You can choose from the silent ride in the houseboat in the backwaters of Alleppey & Kumarakom or the lush green hills of Munnar or the infinite ocean view from the serene beaches of Kovalam, these experiences will be cherished for a lifetime.

4. Darjeeling

The towering Mt.Kanchenjunga kisses the blue sky, the rolling mountains with flourishing green tea plantation and in between lays the ‘Queen of hills’ – Darjelling. The sunrise over the horizons of Tiger hills is absolutely captivating and so is the ride in the toy train which has got UNESCO World Heritage status.

5. Lakshadweep

One of the most untouched and relatively secluded beach destinations in India, Lakshadweep has the most pristine turquoise blue water and emerald green beaches. A delight for scuba divers, the place takes you to the unknown world of undersea life.

6. Coorg

Yet another romantic place that is popularly known as “Scotland of India” is also a famous destination for honeymoon. Coorg has the most beautiful falls, the unmitigated tea gardens, mystic fog, green forests and scintillating hills making it a sheer delight for travellers.

7. Havelock

A breathtaking 4 hours ferry journey from Port Blair is the immaculate island of Havelock. Clean blue water, silver sand and soft breeze are sure to set a perfect tune of romance. The island also has a lot of options for adventurous sports.

All images source: Wikipedia

The 5 famous Dussehra in India

Dussehra, also known as Vijay Dashmi, is celebration of victory of good over evil. It is one of the most important festivals of Hindu which is celebrated across India. Here is a list of 5 places in India where Dussehra is celebrated in a grand ceremony.

Image Source: Wikipedia

1. Kullu Dussehra

Kullu attract a lot of tourists during this time as Himachal Pradesh has given a status of international festival to Dussehra. Celebrated in the Dhalpur maidan of Kullu Valley, the festival is one of the most important for the folks of Kullu. Idols of gods are taken on the head of devotees to meet Lord Raghunath on the ground. In the last day of the 7 days festival, a procession where strangely shaped enormous flutes are carried is led to River Beas and the wood logs are set on fire as a mark of burning Ravana’s Lanka. All this is led by King of Kullu.

2. Mysore Dasara

Dasara in the Mysore district of Karanataka marks the end of the 10 days long state festival. Celebrated in a majestic style, the tradition is 400 years old where the Mysore palace is lit throughout the 10 days. The Dasara exhibition is held every year since 1880 which gives a taste of local food, shopping and fun rides. The elephant procession from the palace to the Dasara ground is a must watch.

3. Bastar Dushera

It is a unique cultural trait of Chattisgarh. Celebrated by the locals with a lot of vigor, the festival is to mark respect to the Goddess Danteswari. Bastar Dushera is celebrated in the kingdom of Dandakamya where Lord Rama is believed to have spent his 14 years of exile. The city of Jadalpur is famous for many sacred temples.

4. Barara Dusshera

The small city of Barara near Ambala is about 80-90kms from Chandigarh. The distinctive thing about the Barara Ravana is the height of its effigy. Every year, the height is increased by a few feet and the Ravana now stands tall at around 200 feet.

5. New Delhi

The most extravagant, dramatic and the entertaining Dusshera happens in the capital of India. The 9 days long Navratri festival culminates on the 10^th day of Dusshera by burning the huge effigies of Ravana and his two brothers. A lot of firework lit the sky and the darkness ends with the people celebrating the victory of good.

Dusshera in Kullu. Source: Wikipedia

Enter Into a Different World of Nature through Mystical Bridges around the World

Our Earth has several beautiful natural places including spectacular bridges. Let’s have a look at some mystical bridges around the world that will take you to another world:

Root Bridge (India)

In the depths of North-Eastern India, in one of the wettest places on earth - Meghalaya, bridges are not built – they’re grown. On the slopes of Southern Jaintia and East Khasi hills, a species of Indian rubber tree (Ficus elastic) with an incredibly strong root system thrives and flourishes.

 Multnomah Falls Bridge (USA)

One the tallest waterfalls in the USA, Multnomah Falls could very well be Oregon’s prime waterfall attraction. There was an arched bridge (built in 1914) spanning across the waterfall’s lower 79ft drop that allow us to get a closer and mistier look at the 541ft upper tier of the waterfall.

Rakotzbrucke Bridge (Germany)

If you will search for the attractions in Kromlau (Germany), the Rakotzbrucke will certainly pop out. The Medieval looking bridge is outstanding and what is so breath-taking about this bridge is its view during sunset as it creates a beautiful water reflection of a full circle.

 Huangshan, Anhui Bridge (China)

Would you be brave enough to trek a pathway called the Bridge of Immortals? Located in Huangshan, Anhui bridge is at a vertigo-inducing height between two giant peaks that dares adventures to cross its path.

Gorge De L’areuse Bridge (Switzerland)

Whenever the Jura waters tried to carve their way through the pleats of the Jura, Gorge were created, and so it is with the Gorges de L’areuse. A daring hiking path has been pinned to the Cliffside to give hikers a good view of this natural wonder. 

All Images Source: Wikipedia

Go Pandal Hopping this Durga Puja: Where to go in these 5 cities?

Festivity is in the air. The colours, the lights, the cheerful mood and the craze for loads of food and shopping makes this month a much awaited time in the whole year. Durga Puja is celebrated in whole of India with a lot of gaiety and grandeur. Larger than life idols of Durga, uniquely decorated Pandals, music and performances will take over all the cities.

So, where to go for the Puja fun this time of the year? We bring a list of 3 Pandals each from the following 5 cities, where you can explore the essence of Durga Puja in 2015.

Delhi

1. Chittarnjan Park (C.R Park)

Delhi’s very own “Mini Kolkata” in South Delhi, is host to some of the best Pandals. The ambience, authentic food, costume, music, language - everything will make you feel you are in Kolkata. It has multiple Pandals and you can hop from one to another in a day.

2. Kashmere Gate

The oldest Durga Puja Pandal in Delhi, which is happening since 1909, the celebrations here are more traditional. Situated in the North Delhi, go hear for classic Bengali cuisines and religious activities.

3.  New Delhi Kali Bari

In the heart of Delhi, the celebrations started in 1925 which continues till date. The Mandir Marg Kali Bari is known of its Dhaaki(Dholak) performance during the evening anjali(aarti) for which spectators come from all across India and abroad.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Kolkata

1. Suruchi Sangha (New Alipore)

It is the award winning Pandal in the “City of Joy” on two occasions for the “most well decorated Pandals”. Known for its creativity, the uniqueness lies in depicting the idol as different state theme symbolizing different cultures in India. They have already done Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir, this year the theme state is Tamil Nadu.

2.  Jodhpur Park (Jadhavpur Thana)

The Pandals here are famous for wide variety of culture themes. The huge magnitude at which it is done, makes it “Not to miss” every year. The first of its kind idol made on a 3D printer out of biodegradable materials was the highlight in 2014.

3. Bagbazaar (Bagbazaar launch ghat)

In an era, when lakhs and crores are being spent on the decorations of the Pandals, the Bagbazaar Pandal is still known for its minimalism and lack of grandiose decorations. A visit to this Pandal will take you back in the time when the only thing that mattered was simplicity.

Mumbai

1. North Mumbai Sarbojanin Durgotsav (Juhu)

In its 68^th year now, it was founded by the “Mukherjee” family and hence the Pandal is famous for the celebrity quotient. Friends and family of Bollywood’s beloved Kajol, Rani Mukherjee etc. attend the feast. It is a 5 days celebration at the Tulip Star hotel (from 18^th Oct) and witness many celebrity performances so, if you want to spot your favourite superstar along with being spiritual, then head to Juhu.

2. Shivaji Park (Dadar)

For over 80 years old, in the oldest Pandal in Mumbai, the highlight is the food court. You can pick a wide range of things from Bengali food & sweets to Bengali Sarees and Artefacts even though the Pandal is not too big or ostentatious but have a unique theme each year. This year the Pandal is modelled on the famous Kalighat temple in Kolkata.

3. Ramkrishna Mission Puja (Khar)

The traditional kumara puja is performed here, in which a 8 year old girl is dressed as Goddess Durga on Ashtmi and is made to sit on the throne. Thousands of people worship her with flowers and seek her blessings. Authentic bhog is served here in the afternoon.

Image Source: Rediff

Bangalore

1. Sri Sri Durga Puja (RBANM School ground, Sivanchetti Gardens)

In its 66^th year, the Puja organised by Bengalee Association Bangalore, this one is not just the biggest in the city but amongst the top 5 in India. With the expected footfall of over 25,000 people every day, it is going to be a splendid affair.

2. Sammad 2015 (Mangala Kalyana Mantapa, South Bangalore)

5 days of non-stop music, dance and band performances, this is going to be the most pleasurable Puja Pandal. Along with mouth-watering food and majestic idols, who minds some entertainment.

3. UTSAV Durgapuja (JP Nagar)

The major attraction is the cultural program. Utsav team comes up with innovative programs which are amalgamations of Bengali culture with Indian and Global culture to celebrate the arrival of goddess amongst people from all religions, regions and walks of life.

Image source: www.urbanbinge.com

Pune

1. .Kali Bari (Khadki)

The first puja was held in 1940s and the Kali Bari Samiti was established in 1980 and since then the puja is held in the temple. Every year artists from Kolkata work on the Durga idols. A lot of hard work is put in for a variety of Bengali cuisines and numerous performances.

2. .Nandanik Kalyani Nagar Puja (Koregaon Park)

Nandanik is a group of like-minded people united by the common cause of community building and supporting the physically challenged. Aarti, pushpanjali, bhojan and culture programs will be the highlights from 18^th – 23^rd October followed by Laksmi Puja on 26^th October.

3. Banga Bharati Durga Puja (Pimpri)

Established in 1976, Banga Bharati is association of people across Pimpri Chinchwad. From Panchmi (18^th October) to Sindoor Utsav (23^rd October), there will be daily dose of culture programs with bhog and aarti. Look forward to the delicacies from Bengal being served here.

Image Source: http://punedurgapujas.blogspot.in/

15 BEAUTIFUL COUNTRIES INDIANS CAN TRAVEL TO WITHOUT A VISA

While planning an international vacation, the first thing that bothers us is the tedious procedure for Visa. The innumerable documents and the time required for the Visa can totally dampen the mood of the vacation and are also key deterrent factors for choosing a destination. But did you know there are 59 international destinations where Indians can travel visa free? To be precise there are three categories of Visa that Indians require in these countries – 1. No Visa, 2. e-Visa, 3. Visa on arrival.

Read more to know The Suitcase’s pick of favourite destinations where Indians should plan a trip right away, as these countries are inviting us with open arms! (Sans Visa)

No Visa:

1.Fiji

Fiji is an archipelago of 332 islands in the South Pacific. Famous for its rocky landscape of blue lagoons, palm swarming beaches, soft coral dive and pearly beaches, you cannot get more close to the nature. Accommodation options ranges from affordable to hotels to exclusive five star resorts and private islands as well. It’s a dream destination for weddings and honeymoons as the country takes you in a trance.

Image source: Wikipedia

2. Macau

Known as the Las Vegas of Asia because of enormous casinos and extravagant malls, the glitz and glamour of this country is contagious. Macau never sleeps and owns striking landmarks like Macau towers. A small peninsula in mainland China, Macau is across the Pearl River delta from Hongkong. The country also boasts of rich culture, temples, picturesque landscape, heritage monuments and oodles of adventurous activities.

Image Source: Wikipedia

3. Trinidad & Tobago

Republic of Trinidad & Tobago is a twin island country off the northern edge of South America. Part of Caribbean islands, it shares boundaries with exotic locations of Barbados, Venezuela, Grenada & Guyana. Untouched coastline with extraordinary beaches, deep gorges, humongous waterfalls and distinctive species of wildlife, the atmosphere will leave you asking for more!

Image Source: Wikipedia

4. Ecuador

Surrounded by Colombia, Peru and Pacific Ocean, Ecudor also includes the famous wildlife rich Galapagos Islands which lie in the north-western South America. The diverse landscape also encompasses Amazon jungle, Pacific coast & Andes highland. When you have four different worlds in one then “All You Need is Ecuador”.

5. Jamaica

Another gem in the Caribbean Island nation, has a lush topography of mountains, rainforests & reef-lined beaches. Hometown of Bob Marley, the most popular destinations around Jamaica are Montego Bay, Ocho Rios & Negril that is famous for the best of resorts renowned for diving and snorkelling. At night Jamaica comes alive. With reggae beats, live music, dancing on the beach until dawn, this country knows how to live life.

e-Visa

1. Kenya

From Nairobi’s wildlife reserve to Tanzania’s Mt.Kilimanjaro, the country witnesses the annual great wildlife wild beast migration. The country in East Africa with coastline of Indian Ocean encompasses Savannah, Lakelands, Great Rift Valley and mountain highland with abundant flora and fauna.

2. Bahrain

Comprising of more than 30 islands in the middle eastern of Persian Gulf, the kingdom of Bahrain is flanked by Saudi Arabia and Qatar. With a rich history of kings and queens, the forts, museums & mosques are spectator’s delight. A shopper’s paradise, the food is lip smacking and motor sports are a favourite pastime of the people.

2. Myanmar

One of India’s neighbours, Myanmar shares its boundaries with Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. The city of Yangon (formerly known as Rangoon) is famous for bustling markets, abundant parks & lakes and plentiful of Pagodas as the history dates back to Buddhist relics. The Indian-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway will be one of its kind roadtrip for every traveller!

4. Zimbabwe

The thundering sound of Victoria falls is music to the ears when it cascade 108m into Batoka George making it ideal for white river rafting and bungee jumping. Home to hippos, rhinos and other diverse wildlife, Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. There are four different world heritage sites declared by UNESCO. The abundance of rock art and ruins bear dated Pre-Middle Stone Age, makes “The history of Zimbabwe rich”, an understatement.

5. Rwanda

The land of thousand hills – Rwanda is an East African country which got its name as a reason of green mountain landscape. The capital of the country Kigali is known for pulsating night life. Boarding Congo and Uganda, the famous Volcanoes National Park is home to mountain gorillas. The park has four other forested volcanoes.

Visa on Arrival

1. Jordan

A haven in the region of conflict, Jordan, an Arab nation has charmed visitors for centuries with its world heritage sites, ancient monuments, natural reserves and seaside resorts. You can experience the ancient ruins of Petra, the desert of Wadi Rum, the extraordinary Dead Sea and many such unique things in Jordan.

2. Tanzania

Abode to the big five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino) in the safari Mecca of Serengeti National Park, home to Africa’s highest mountain – Mt Kilimanjaro with the wilderness of Kilimanjaro National Park, the most exotic tropical islands of Zanzibar and the Mafia Marine Park where whales & sharks swim through the reefs; Tanzania, an East African country has all this and much more adventure wrapped in one country.

3. Seychelles

An archipelago of 100+ islands in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is loved for its beaches, coral reefs, natural reserves and the rare Aldabra tortoises. Victoria has mountain rainforest and Morne Seychellois National park with the beauty of white sand beaches in Beau Vallon.

4. Antarctica

Yes, you read it right. The white beauty of Antarctica, home to the joyous penguins along with other rich wildlife like seals and albatrosses, gives visa on arrival to Indians. Antarctica is in the South Pole of planet Earth and is virtually uninhabited with chunks of ice covered all around. Most cruises to the continent visit the Antarctica peninsula with stunning iceberg flanked passages, mountain ranges and nature’s grandeur. Antarctica’s peculiar beauty will haunt you forever!

5. Maldives

Unmatched luxury, pearly white beaches, blue lagoons and astonishing under water life makes Maldives, a tropical nation in Indian Ocean, an obvious choice for a pampered holiday. Proud owner of few of the world’s most extravagant hotels and resorts, Maldives will spoil you with choices.

This compilation of 15 countries is highly recommended as an addition to the bucket list of die-hard travellers or the beginners who want to travel a journey free of documentation hassles or unnecessary waste of time. However, it is important to note that there is usually a time limit to how long you can stay in each country which varies significantly. Depending on the purpose of travel & duration of stay, you could be eligible to apply for visa or extension of visa in case you were issued one on arrival.

Bon Voyage!

International Destinations That Will Cost You Less Than an iPhone

Today is the big day for the launch of iPhone 6s & iPhone 6s Plus. The crazy fans of Apple are leaving no stone unturned to get hand on their handheld. But does an iPhone last a lifetime? Sadly NO! Now, imagine yourself on a sun kissed beach, or on top of the highest building in the world or diving in the mysterious world of ocean or getting clicked with one of the wonders of the world – These are the memories that will last forever. Yes, there are a lot of international destinations than can cost you less than an iPhone. With some good research and advance planning, you can explore and have an experience of a lifetime. And, if this sounds unbelievable, check this list of 14 international destinations you can visit in more or less 65k.

1. Thailand

It is the one of the nearest and the cheapest international destinations from India. Beaches, mountains, shopping, culture, food, nightlife – you name it and they have it. If not the entire country, few key locations like Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Krabi can give you the desired break that too without burning a hole in your pocket.

2. Sri Lanka

Our southern neighbour is ideal for back packers and nature lovers. Rich in culture just like our own country, Sri Lanka owns quite a few pristine beaches, the greenest of the green hills with widespread tea estates, great ayurveda massages and finger licking food. A great option for pilgrimage as Sri Lanka is offers sightseeing to the locations where there is evidence of Ramayana.

3. Dubai

An architectural delight, Dubai is home away from home. With majority of Indians, there is no dearth of Indian food or locals. A shopper’s delight, Dubai has the best of the brands available in the world. There is so much to do in this country. Desert Safari, gold souks, amazing architecture, historical districts and abundant recreational activities & experiences, there is something to do for everyone!

4.  Malaysia

Turquoise water, marine life, rich heritage, stunning beaches, pleasant climate and modern architecture – This is Malaysia for you! Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Batu Caves, Langkawi, Mount Kinabalu, Taman Negara, Selangor, Sarawak are the few must visits when you plan for Malaysia. It’s a perfect scenic destination for you.

5. Bhutan

One of our beautiful neighbours, also known as Land of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan is a kaleidoscope destination for the tourists. The country is known for its untouched beauty and scenic locales. Trekking is a famous sport because of the quaint hilly terrain there. The good news is you don’t need a passport to travel to Bhutan!

Image Source: Wikipedia

6. Singapore

A perfect blend of variety of things, Singapore is known for nature, culture, beaches, cuisine, modern structure and architecture. The Sentosa Island is a man made wonder which cannot be explored in a single day.  World class hotels, cruises, latest amenities, shopping – you name it and they have it. Singapore is a country that celebrates culture.

7.  Indonesia

Land of volcanoes, flora fauna, tropical forests & blue green water; in other words land of immaculate beauty. Indonesia is rich in Hindu culture and has a lot of temples. It is considered as one of the best destinations for under water sports because of the astonishing marine life. Seafood and Spa lovers will fall in love with this country.

8. Hongkong

This place is always bustling with light and energy. A walk on the road to witness the glitzy lifestyle or the Disneyland, Hongkong has many options to make your stay entertaining. Shopping and yummy food is icing on the cake and not to forget, no Visa is required in Hongkong for 2 weeks so you can have free spirit holiday!

9. Maldives

Dream destination for honeymooners, the beauty of this place is flawless! Maldives offers the most spectacular views that will blow away your mind. The spa, the food, the water sports; this place will spoil you with choices. Do island hopping or just relax on pearly white beaches, a lifetime memory is guaranteed.

10. Vietnam

Independence, Freedom and Happiness – these 3 words defines the country Vietnam, infact this is the motto they abide to. From the jagged scenery to certain tropical islands, it has a timeless charm to it. Vietnam has a variety of seafood and the tours to local market, islands and wildlife is a must do! Yacht or boat cruise is the best way to save money and time!

11. Cambodia

House to Angor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, Cambodia is famous for rich history and culture. The rustic beauty that Cambodia showcases should not just be clicked, but should be captured in your heart forever. Also known as the “Kingdom of Wonder”, it has mountains that make Cambodia ideal for adventure lovers.

12. Seychelles

Gaining popularity as one of the most sought destinations for newlyweds, the direct flights from India has made Seychelles easy to reach and fairly affordable. With over 100 small islands, this country amidst the Indian Ocean is one of the most exotic and untouched destinations. The tranquil beaches can take your breath away.

13. Turkey

Rich heritage culture and host of monuments defines the city of Istanbul. Food lovers can have a treat with a variety of options available. Turkish art and shopping at the bazaars are an ideal escape for the tourists.

14. Egypt

Watching the pyramids and mummies can itself be a lifetime experience. Fascinating tales, eternal history and the culture makes Egypt a treasure trove for the tourists. The sunset over the pyramids is a spectacular experience, which should not be missed. No visit to Cairo is complete without seeing the majesty of the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Travel to even one of these destinations can make you rich (with experience) by many folds. With so many options to choose from, which will be your next destination?