BEST MONTHS: July
FESTIVALS:Haa Summer Festival - 7 - 9 July 2022
Guru Purnima - 13 July 2022, Wednesday
Islamic New Year - 29-30 July 2022, Friday - Saturday
A lively and uplifting celebration, Haa Summer Festival is one of the most mesmerizing celebrations held in the beautiful tourist spot of Bhutan. On being here, one can get to learn about an unparalleled insight into the exclusive Bhutanese lifestyle, customs, tradition, heritage, religious performance, sports and unique home cooked cuisine. The dance and popular songs performed here by the natives gives an out of the world experience to the onlookers who can enjoy it with Ara, a local alcoholic drink. Besides enjoying the tourism festival, tourists can even get an eye on the artefacts and natural alpine flowers. For those who would love to spend a night here, homestays would be an ideal choice where one can enjoy the warm welcome of the people of Haa Valley.
Guru Purnima is celebrated on the full moon date of the Hindu month Ashadha. On this day, the Guru (teacher or mentor) in worshiped. In general terms, Guru is the person who brings us out to the light from the darkness by enlightening us with knowledge. This festival is celebrated with full faith and emotions throughout the nation. An eminent personality from the ancient times; the author of incredible texts like Brahma Sutra, Mahabharata, Shrimad Bhagvat, and 18 Puranas; Maharshi Veda Vyasa was born on the Ashadha Purnima, as per the beliefs. Ved Vyas was the son of Rishi Parashara. As per the Hindu Shastras, Veda Vyas was aware of all the Kaals (times - past, present, future). With his divine eye, he had witnessed that people will lose interest in religion in future. Due to which, humans will believe less in God, they will avoid responsibilities, and will have lesser age. Such a person cannot easily go through the entire Veda. Hence, Maharshi Vyasa divided the Vedas into 4 parts; so that people with less understanding and memory can utilize this knowledge.
The Islamic New Year — also known as the Arabic New Year or Hijri New Year — is the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar. The first year of this calendar began in Gregorian CE 622 when the Prophet Muhammad emigrated from Mecca to Medina with his companions.In the Islamic calendar, days begin at sunset. The event falls on a different day every year because the Islamic year is 11 to 12 days shorter. As rituals and prayers mark the occasion, Muharram is known as the month of remembrance and is sacred to Muslims across the world. The word Hijri is derived from Hijra meaning migration. The starting point of Islamic calendar is migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD.
Mountains guard, mountains keep, mountains whisper secrets to the closest acquaintance! But to listen to them you must walk into their embrace. It is here that you go chasing angels or fleeing demons, and when you are there already you wake up to some of the most surreal views ever. Haa Valley, nestled in the Himalayan land in Bhutan, is where nature looks its incredible best. The Valley is a nestled paradise connecting Paro, Chhukha, and Samtse districts of Bhutan. Located at a mere 13 miles’ distance from the disputed India-China border in Doklam, this place holds a strategic position stretching over 1700 sq km. It was in 2002 when it was made available to the public, yet the valley still doesn’t have too many conveyances. It can be reached from the nearest town of Paro most efficiently. Truly a cut above the rest, the Haa Valley takes you through to the magical place beyond mountains in Bhutan where the world is so serene, and light is pristine.
Overlooking the mesmerising Wang Chu river, Thimphu boasts a pristine environment, spellbinding scenery and architecture, and warm, hospitable people. Nestled in the heart of this valley lies the magnificent Taj Tashi, the gateway to a magical land brimming with fascinating mythology. Our 5 star hotel in Bhutan is ideally situated for you to explore the kingdom’s spectacular monasteries, centuries-old street festivals, scenic mountain passes and pristine wilderness. The international airport is situated at Paro, an hour from Thimphu. Staying true to Bhutan’s ancient and alluring ways, our hotel in Thimphu enchantingly blends Dzong architecture and modern design, and is adorned with classical hand-drawn Buddhist murals.
Delightfully adorned with classical hand-painted Buddhist murals, the sprawling Luxury Rooms feature arresting ambrosial valley views. The marble bathrooms serve to pamper with towel heaters.
If nature mesmerizes you, a visit to Trashiyangtse is going to be captivating, to say the least. Born out of Trashigang district in 1992 as a separate district, it sits in the middle of a small river valley making it an ideal place for long refreshing walks in the countryside. Another one of the best things to do in Bhutan is exploring one of the most important stupas – Chorten Kora, situated next to the Kulong Chu River in Trashiyangtse.
See Ancient Art Come To Life, Bhutan focuses on preserving their culture, and their art is a major part of their culture. Bhutanese art is based on their religion and follows a certain style which is uniform. The craftworks follow traditional values rather than emphasizing innovation. The importance of their culture lies in their art and craft.
Unlike the regular river rafting in strong currents, rafting in Bhutan is a pleasurable ride while floating down the river. You will get to marvel at the lush greenery, rare birds, clear skies, and blue waters of Bhutan. The best time to do this activity is after the monsoon season as the flow of water increases. Thus, you can plan a vacation in October or November.
To answer the question as to what to buy in Bhutan, one can start from the most popular handicraft items that are available here – items made from cane and bamboo materials. There are a plethora of shops in the country that sell these items. There are floor mats, baskets, wall-hangings, utensils, and much more. There is a usage of natural dyes as well to help make these products
Out of the many things to buy in Bhutan are the colorful Dzi Beads. Also known as the Himalayan beads, they are used in the making of accessories like bracelets, necklaces, etc. There are different patterns to them as well – ovals, circles, squares, waves, stripes, zig zags, lines, dots, diamonds, and other symbolic patterns. You would be amazed to know that these beads are the most expensive beads found on the face of the earth. It is believed that these beads are the creations of god and they bring luck and ward off evil spirits. You can also find the cheaper versions in the local markets.
Out of the many things to buy in Bhutan, the hand-woven textiles are the most popular. Bhutanese people are known for their amazing artistry and craftsmanship. The people here use different materials like cotton, raw cotton, and silk to make different textiles.There are plenty of villages that make different kind of textiles using varied materials.
Ema Datshi is a traditional Bhutanese stew made using the ever so available Yak Cheese and lots and lots of chilies. Bhutanese people just love chilies and cheese, that’s why almost every dish you’ll find in Bhutan may turn out to be cheesy as well as spicy. Also known as the national dish of Bhutan Ema Datshi is made using Yak cheese, Garlic, oil, split chilies, onion, and tomatoes. This dish is normally eaten with red rice.
Shakam Paa is a magical Bhutanese dish made using ground beef, dried chilies, and radish. The beef in this dish is a bit chewy because beef is first dried and preserved before being used in this dish. Shakam Paa is an excellent source of protein and is one of the staple diets of the Bhutanese people. The technique of drying and preserving beef is also a part of the normal cooking style of Bhutan.
Another one of the famous Bhutanese dishes is the Jasha Maru. Prepared using chicken, garlic, onion, ginger, tomato, and onions, this dish is ready to take your taste buds. Considered to be one of the spiciest dishes in the Bhutanese cuisine, caution is advised before eating this served. It is best served with red rice just like any other authentic Bhutanese delicacy.
Aavo Padharo, words of welcome in the language of Gujarat because it is here that these words ring truly and the guest is 'God' and the people of Gujarat are gregariously friendly, inviting and will entice you to come again and again. Stretches out into the Arabian Sea, with a hint of the desert and with a coastline of 1600 kms long is Gujarat – the home state of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of Nation. It is renowned for its beaches, temple towns and historic capitals. Wildlife sanctuaries, hill resorts and natural grandeur are gifts of Gujarat. Sculpture, handicrafts, arts, festivals also make the state rich. Gujarat is also among the most technologically advanced, housing the largest petrochemical complex in the country. Gujarat has always been a major centre for the Jains and some of its most interesting locations are the Jain Temple centres at Palitana and Girnar Hills. Besides the Jain temples, the state’s major attractions include the only habitat of the Asiatic Lions in India (Gir Forests), a desert ride at the Wild Ass Sanctuary and the beautiful Indo-Saracenic Architecture of Ahmedabad. The colourful tribal villages of Kutch make a visit unforgettable.
Regency Lagoon Resort, an oasis in the city of Rajkot is a rejuvenating retreat promising the most exhilarating experience of a lifetime!A blissful sojourn in the lap of Mother Nature, the resort is spread over twenty-two acres of lush, picturesque milieu, resplendent with rich tropical garden, cascading waterfalls and a sparkling lagoon, the beauty of which instantly invigorates, entices and enthrals. Strategically nestled close to the airport and the Metoda industrial belt, Regency Lagoon Resort provides a perfect concoction of traditional British architecture, finest indulgences of modern life and momentous hospitality, which is truly Victorian. Exuding an intriguing mix of majesty and modern grandeur, the resort features unfathomed beauty, sheer splendour and opulence that will mesmerize your senses. For business travellers, we provide the best-in-class conference facilities and board meeting room, equipped with modern facilities. Best suited for a relaxing day away from mundane life. A paradise to tie knots of purity. With an enormous amount of artistically landscaped open space and huge welcoming gates, Regency Lagoon resort has emerged as a new it destination for marriages - destination weddings being the in thing. Culinary excellence and technical advancement give us an upper hand. Regency Lagoon resort offers the right setting for sophisticated and exclusive cordiality for all our guests.
Opulence at its crowning highest! No stone has been left unturned with our private villas to bring the utmost comfort and luxury to our esteemed guests. The Royal Villa comes with personalised butler service, two master bedrooms, sit out with handsome patio furniture, a spacious living room, a dry kitchen, open air baths, a private dip pool and two expansive four fixture bathrooms.
Patola saris are known for their intricate designs and weaving techniques. Rightfully expensive and once worn only by aristocratic families, one of the best things to do in Rajkot Gujarat is to see how they’re made at Mayur Patola Art, near Virani High School and Sarvodaya Society. You can even buy them at shops like Pooja Patola Saree, located in the area, and shops farther along like Sindhoi Patola Art (Dr Yagnik Road) and Gohil Patola Art
One of the best things to do in Rajkot if you love being surrounded by greenery but aren’t too keen on a hike is to visit Aji Dam. With manicured gardens, seating areas and a children’s playground, this is another ideal destination for the whole family. It also has facilities like eateries, toilets and drinking water. While the park’s picturesqueness will certainly leave a lasting impression, you can make your visit even more memorable by packing a picnic and enjoying it amidst the pretty surroundings.
Hiking is a great way to explore Rajkot’s natural side and there’s no better place to head to than Osam Hill in the village of Patanvav. Although not large, it has religious significance as it’s believed that the Pandavas stayed here during their exile. The fort of the Pandavas is now in ruins and you can explore it when you get to the top. According to legend, the hill is also the site of the meeting between Bhima and Hidimbi. Try to stay until sunset to see the sky turn into a kaleidoscope of colors.
Made in Patan, Patola silk sarees are double ikat weaves made from fine silk. Patola sarees were traditionally worn only by royalty and those with noble blood. The creation of Patola silk sarees is quite labour-intensive. From start to finish, each saree takes at least six months to a year to be made. Available in most Gujarati city markets, Patola sarees tend to be priced high but are well worth the expense.
An iconic part of Gujarati culture and tradition, bandhani or bandhej material is tie-dyed with a crushed finish. With a variety of tie-dye patterns and colours, bandhani is a local favourite that is used to create garcholas and panetars for weddings, pagdis or turbans, salwar-kameez, dupattas, scarves, waistbands for men, kurtas, stoles, and sarees. Jamnagar is one of the cities well known for bandhani fabric with bright embroidery. Chokidal bandhani squares with animal motifs to use as scarves and stoles or kambaliya patterns with elegantly designed borders: take your pick!
Gujarat is known for its rich variety of traditional embroidery. You can get blouse pieces, embroidered stoles, as well as detailed inimitable cushion covers. Kutchi embroidery is done on Mushroo silk, and the mirrorwork on these cushion covers is exemplary. Other embroidery styles to look out for are Sakri, Bhavariyo, Abhlya mirrorwork, Neran, etc.
Dhokla is the flag-bearing dish of the Gujarati cuisine and is in fact a popular snack all over the country. It’s not just delicious, but is also healthy and is preferred by people who have to watch their weight. It’s savored with tea and is prepared from fermented rice and split chickpeas. It’s served with mint and coriander chutney or hari chutney and dates and tamarind chutney of meethi chutney. Although you can get quality dhoklas all over the country through various home chefs who package and sell them everywhere, the ones you will eat in Ahemadabad will definitely be the best
Theplas are basically parathas made from wheat, spices and the green leafy vegetable methi or fenugreek. They are served with pickle and are often consumed during train journeys by Indians who make sure they pack a good amount for when they’re travelling. Theplas are one of the top favorite travel foods of a lot of Indians. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, you will not be able to resist the lip-smacking thepla with sweet and tangy lemon pickle or chutney.
Khandvi is another famous Gujarati dish that is basically small moist rolls of baked gram flour sheets, served with green chutney and sometimes topped with coriander and shredded coconut. You’ll get to taste some amazing Khandvi in sweet shops or street food stalls in Ahemadabad. Lijjat Khaman in Mani Nagar, Ahmedabad is a great place to taste authentic khandvis and also most of Ahemadabad’s signature street foods
The city of Lucknow is its past that converted into a great present – which later laid foundations for the future – The NOW! The city gained prominence in the 18th-century Mughal rule and flourished under the Nawabs. We are talking about a culture that has survived over the years and one that has clearly left a mark at all the places to visit in Lucknow. It’s development, not just of the infrastructure but development in terms of architecture, religion, art and culture – one that is the true binding force of Lucknow. You will get the sheer cultural generosity in Lucknow’s food, establishments, monuments, and people! We’ll go over a few awesome places, some facts and how to reach the “city of Nawabs.
Stately. Elegant. Opulent. Taj Mahal Lucknow, our 5 star hotel in Lucknow inspires a romance with a coquette called Lucknow. If Delhi is the city of Djinns, then Lucknow is the city of soul. The Nawabs still haunt it, as do the British, with their fine taste for delicate craftsmanship, love for beauty, music, the arts and cuisine.
Experience royalty in the city of Nawabs. The elegantly designed capacious accommodation emphasizes on privacy and exceptional comfort for a senior delegate or a family. Spacious bedroom with Awadhi accents, a compact living room for a cosy tete-a-tete with an elegant dining facility and kitchenette, the suite offers the option of an additional adjoining twin-bedroom. Classic French patio doors lead to a charming veranda and verdant garden, the perfect place to enjoy your morning cuppa.
The famed archways of Rumi Darwaza stand tall and in all its grandeur to this day; despite the extra fittings of iron and steel to support its magnificent structure. Built in the year 1784, it is one of the most impressive historical places in Lucknow. Akin to the grand entrance gates of Constantinople (present day Istanbul), the Darwaza is an exemplary portrayal of Awadhi architecture, complete with its flowers and other intricate detailing. The entire structure is 60 feet tall and has a tower space where once lanterns used to light up at night to illuminate the pathway below. While you can always visit it during the day, visiting it at night is one of the must-do things in Lucknow. On full moon days, the sight is even surreal.
Remnants of colonisation can be seen in almost every part of the country. From the names of many streets to structures and terminals, but Bara Imambara is one iconic monument which is a true example of Mughal and Awadh architecture, devoid of any influence from the European elements of buildings.You can enter this humongous complex through two gates, both merging to the same colossal courtyard in the middle. Spend an entire day exploring its large courtyards, impressive gateways, intriguing step wells or simply bow down to Allah at the mosque.
See the living remnants of the rebellion of 1857 at The Residency, f history is your thing, especially the time pertaining to the rebellions that stirred patriotic nationalism, you cannot miss out 1857 British Memorial, an integral part of The Residency. Part of the top things to do in Lucknow is visiting its planetariums, memorials and museums. And what better way to take a stroll back in time than visiting these monuments? The gardens and various ruins of the structures inside this large complex is where everything started. The Uprising of 1857 started the First War for Independence from the British Raj. The Siege of Lucknow was an imperative part of that uprising and it took place here. The entire episode unfolded over 147 days claiming thousands of lives.
The Lucknowi Chikankari palazzo suits never go out of fashion. If you want to go for a vintage look then the Chikankari palazzo suit is perfect to dress up on festivals. Pairing Kurti with Chikankari pants or palazzo will enhance your beauty in a more mesmerizing way.
He understands the importance of attar (natural perfume) for Muslims during the holy month of Ramzan — a period of self purification, introspection and spirit of sacrifice. Ramzan sees devout Muslims zealously follow Sunnah, the way of life arising out of teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Zardozi is very expensive, owing to the use of expensive materials, and also because embroiderers take hourly wages for constructing raised-motifs in gold and silver zari, and doing other detailed work
This place defines Lucknow food in so many ways. Whoever visits this place, cannot forget the taste of these uniquely spiced kebabs for a very long time. The meat tends to dissolve in the mouth instantly and is best complimented with roomali rotis. The Chowk outlet serves only beef kebabs while the Aminabad outlet serves both mutton and beef kebabs at a very cheap price. So eat as much as you want without burning a hole in your pocket!
Imagine tender pieces of meat marinated in an exotic spice rub and cooked overnight, stuffed into freshly baked tandoori kulche. After tunday kebabs, nahari kulcha is the second most famous food jewel of Lucknow food and cuisine. All you need to do is imagine heaven on a plate.
Winters are incomplete without makhan malai. It is conceptually similar to Old Delhi’s daulat ki chaat, but much more intense and flavourful. The dish in itself is light and fluffy, but very creamy in texture. The sprinkling of khoya added on top by the vendors makes it irresistible. This seasonal dish is an integral part of Lucknow food.
From caves, temples and mosques to palaces and stupas, India boasts an architectural ...
A nations cultural and natural heritage embodied in buildings, monuments and natural
