15 Unique Travel Experiences in India to Check Out (2022)
India is a traveler’s paradise. There are both natural and man-made attractions, from arid deserts and spectacular mountains to the loveliest beaches that will blow your mind. There are some unusually unique and (some) challenging travel experiences that you’ll definitely want to try out! The memories made and the lessons discovered will undoubtedly stick with you for the rest of your life. Although you should know that some of these activities may push you outside of your comfort zone. There is a long list of unique travel experiences in India that you can choose from. Here are just a few of them: Stay at a 12th Century Fort Ride the Buddha Express Go for Night treks at Periyar Tour Kerala in a Houseboat Visit the Waterfall that Defies Gravity The Frozen River Trek World’s largest Camel Fair Kayak in Havelock to see the glowing streams Float through a National Park Farmstays at Leh Safaris with yaks at Tsomgo Lake Visit India’s highest Frozen Lake Dining in the dark Microlight Flying Chamba Camp Unique Travel Experiences in India Here is a little more about these unique and really interesting travel experiences and where you can find them. 1. Stay at a 12th Century Fort Image by Atul Panday Jaisalmer Fort is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan. It is also one of the rare forts on the planet where people still live. There is still a significant chunk of the old city’s inhabitants there. It makes perfect sense that a majority of visitors to Jaisalmer want to stay inside the fort given how fascinating it is. The fort is huge and it even has hostels and motels inside! This is definitely the place to live like a royal if you’ve ever had the desire to. Place: Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan 2. Ride the Buddha Express Image by Phan-Van Masanobu Thai-Binh The Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train, offered by IRCTC, is a very unique way to travel by train. It is a unique tourist train called the Mahaparinirvan Express. It takes travelers on a spiritual journey across Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in India, the birthplace of Buddhism. It passes through Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, Bodh Gaya, Varanasi, the site of his first sermon, and Kushinagar, the place of his awakening. After your prayer, the train will leave from Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi and travel back via Agra. The onboard amenities are modest, far from lavish, and cannot be compared to other luxury train trips because this train is designed for pilgrimage travelers. Place: Safdarjung Railway station, Delhi 3.Go for Night treks at Periyar Image by pch.vector Unquestionably, Periyar Tiger Reserve, also known as Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of those tourist destinations in Kerala that is very well-liked by visitors. One main thing that has contributed to its popularity Among the causes of it being so popular is night hiking, which enables tourists to travel far into the forest while being protected by experienced tribal guards. There is nothing that compares to a night of trekking in Periyar if you want to experience an adrenaline rush and be close to nature at the same time. Place: Periyar, Kerala 4. Tour Kerala in a Houseboat Image by Abhishek Prasad The Kerala Backwaters are a web of lakes and saltwater lagoons parallel to the Arabian Sea. The houseboats let you experience an extravagant environment in the wilderness. Discover the rural, uncharted Kerala that is normally hidden from visitors’ gaze by renting one of these luxurious houseboats that have bedrooms, a sitting area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. Honeymooners would love a trip like this for sure! Place: Alleppey, Kerala 5. Visit the Waterfall that defies gravity Image by Sonika Agarwal The Naneghat Waterfall is a stunning hideaway where an odd thing happens. Instead of falling down as it should, the cascading waterfall shoots up instead! During the monsoon, when the water is moving at such tremendous speeds and pressure, this occurrence takes occurs. The area’s vegetation and fauna come to life at this time, enhancing the fall’s splendor. The rich green vegetation that covers the mountains and the fluffy clouds that float above them also add to the natural beauty of the landscape. Place: Naneghat, Maharashtra 6. The Frozen River Trek Image by Arjun Kapoor Walking on the ice sheet of the Frozen Zanskar River is something that you remember for a lifetime. Ladakh is a dream location for anyone who loves to travel. During your trek, you can learn more about the Zanskari culture from the kind locals and witness some exotic wildlife. Aside from Ladakh’s enthralling beauty, hiking on a frozen river there can be a deeply freeing experience. Place: Zanskar River, Ladakh 7. World’s Largest Camel Fair Image by Ujjwal Jajoo Pushkar, a town in India, is home to the biggest camel fair in the world. If you ever have the chance to take part in this one-of-a-kind annual fair, don’t miss out on it. You can participate in this peculiar event and learn more about Rajasthani culture at the same time. This location attracts camel sellers who travel from all over to sell their animals, which really is rare in a modern time like ours. However, as tourists also enjoy traditional music, dance, camel races, and even camel beauty pageants, it has become increasingly popular over the years. Here is a guide you can check out to learn more about the Pushkar fair. Place: Pushkar, Rajasthan 8. Kayak in Havelock to see the glowing streams Image by Patrick Fore If you visit Havelock at the right time of the month, you can choose to go kayaking after sunset to view bioluminescence, one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena. This is caused by
No Passport Needed: 7 Foreign-Like Indian Locales (2025)
Have you ever wished to walk down picturesque French streets, ski the Swiss Alps, or glide in a gondola through the canals of Venice? Affording a holiday is hard enough, and the thought of visa application and long flights are a turn-off, the good news is you can enjoy an international holiday in India. “7 Foreign-Like Indian Locales” India is rich in diversity of culture and civilization. There are countless places in the country that look like the places in the world and would make you forget for a moment that you are in India. Too lazy to plan your Travel the World in India Trip? Try The Tarzan Way – it’s like having your own AI trip buddy that plans everything around your vibe. This guide will introduce you to a few of these gems. Get ready to explore the world without breaking the bank or needing a passport stamp: 1. Pondicherry: A Slice of France on the Coromandel Coast Located on the Coromandel Coast, Pondicherry (or Puducherry) was the site of French colonial settlements. This town still has a unique Gallo charm. Take a stroll in the French Quarters (or ‘White Town’) and take in the fossil era villas wrapped in bougainvillea, the cobble paths, and the cafes with French treats. Witness the puffed decor and the polite ambiance and you will believe that this town transports you to the southern coast of France. Best Time to Visit: October to March. Pro Tip: French Quarters are best explored on a bicycle or a motor scooter to your own speed. This will help you spot the hidden pastries and some nice places to check and photograph. 2. Gulmarg, Kashmir: India’s Answer to Switzerland Tourists are fascinated by the beauty of Kashmir, and Gulmarg is the finest of all the places. Like Switzerland, Gulmarg is covered by snow, laminates, and greenery. In the winter, Gulmarg is one of the snow resorts, and in the summer, it has one of the highest golf courses. Gulmarg has one of the finest postcard quality scenery and ambiance. Best to visit: January to February, April to June. Pro Tip: You should ride the Gondola, which is one of the highest in the world. You should book tickets online. 3. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The Ko Phi Phi of India The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are filled with tropical paradise, picturesque beaches, and are filled with the best beaches in India, which includes great snorkeling and scuba with tropical birds. Best Time to Visit: October to May. Pro Tip: Visit Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) at sunset. It’s consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in Asia and its beauty is truly breathtaking. 4. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh: The Original “Mini Switzerland” Officially christened the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Khajjiar is a small hill station that packs a scenic punch. The centerpiece is a stunning, saucer-shaped meadow surrounded by a dense forest of deodar and pine trees. With a serene lake in the middle and views of snow-capped mountains in the distance, it’s a picture-perfect replica of the European countryside. The cool mountain air and tranquil ambiance make it a perfect escape. Best Time to Visit: November to March (for a winter wonderland); March to June (for pleasant weather). Pro Tip: For a bit of fun, try zorbing (rolling downhill inside a giant orb) on the main meadow. It’s a unique activity that offers a thrilling perspective of the stunning landscape. 5. Srinagar, Kashmir: A Glimpse of Floating Markets Any trip to Srinagar wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous floating market on Dal Lake. It is picturesque in the same way, and can even be compared to, the floating markets in Bangkok and the canals of Amsterdam, albeit with the added beauty of the Himalayas. Here vendors on traditional shikara boats sell fresh vegetables, flowers, and other handicrafts, all while surrounded by the stunning, and majestic, view of the Himalayas. You have to see it to believe it. Best Time to Visit: April to October. Pro Tip: For the most memorable experience, spend the night on a traditional Kashmiri houseboat, rather than a hotel, on Dal or Nigeen Lake. It is unforgettable to wake up to the gentle lapping on the hull of the houseboat. 6. Alleppey, Kerala: The Venice of the East Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is known as the “Venice of the East” and for good reason. It is the centerpiece of the backwaters in Kerala, which consists of an elaborate system of interconnected lakes, canals, and lagoons. Instead of gondolas, you have traditional houseboats (kettuvallams) that take you through calm, palm tree-lined canals. Floating through the narrow canals is as magical and picturesque as a gondola ride, where you pass lush paddy fields and quaint villages. Best Time to Visit: Best time to visit is from November to February. Pro Tip: Go for an overnight houseboat cruise. You will get to see the backwaters sunsets and sunrises and get away from the crowds of the day. 7. Coorg, Karnataka: the Scotland of India Because of its mist-covered and rolling hills, and cool and crisp weather, Coorg (Kodagu) is frequently likened to the Scottish Highlands. This portion of Karnataka is well recognized for its coffee and spice cultivation. Blending with the foliage are the charming traditions of the Kodava people and the waterfalls tucked away in the hills, which provide a very charming surprise. Best Time to Visit: Best time to visit October to March. Pro Tip: Visit a coffee plantation, it is a must. You’ll find many coffee plantations that offer tours and let you taste coffee made from freshly picked beans. FAQs: Q. Why are these Indian places compared to foreign countries? A. This is due to architectural, landscape, and ambiance comparatives. For instance, Gulmarg has an alpine landscape that is a lot like the Swiss Alps and the old French colonies in Pondicherry are laden with French architecture. Q. Is it cheaper to visit these places than
5 Incredible Places for Trekking in Kashmir (2022 List)
Kashmir enjoys enormous fame for its scenic beauty and rightly so given its luscious spread of visually appealing corners all around its territory. It is famed for housing a good number of trekking sites around its lakes and valleys. Kashmir valley runs along the magnanimous Himalayan range which makes it a suitable route for exploring the mountains and valleys that fall along this route. Trekking is an outdoor physical activity that requires a lot of walking which can be for a day or several days or sometimes even weeks. This adventure sport is thoroughly enjoyed and holds a quality stature among hiking or trekking enthusiasts given its rewarding result. Treks that stretch on for days can feel extremely demanding to both the mind and body and so a little preparation goes a long way in sustaining anybody to last for the trek duration. Kashmir offers scores of trekking sites to explore given its large coverage of mountains, valleys, glaciers, and lakes. The natural environment surrounding Kashmir provides the adventure-seeking soul with the right kind of outdoor activity to fully relish. In this post, we will explore some of the best places for trekking in Kashmir along with their distance, duration, altitude & difficulty level. Best places for trekking in Kashmir The Kashmir Valley is a beautiful place to visit, and it has many places for trekking. Some of the best places for trekking in Kashmir valley are: Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Naranag Gangabal Trek Tarsar Marsar Trek Kolahoi Glacier Trek Tulian Lake Trek Let’s explore each of them! 1. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek Image Source: BMC Adventures The Kashmir Great Lakes trek is considered to be one of the most popular and beautiful treks in India. This can be credited to the fact that it offers exquisite panoramic views of a vast expanse of several lakes, valleys, alpine meadows, and glaciers. This trekking trail is also famously dotted as “Paradise on Earth” by locals and visitors alike. The lakes that follow along with this trail have immensely added to its grandiose trait. The campsites are equally magnificent as well. During the passage, you will be bestowed with the best picturesque views of the agrestal mountains, the glorious spread of meadows decorated with wildflowers, snow-capped mountain tops, and the illustrious alpine lakes. The best time to trek the trail is from July to early September during the monsoon showers. The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek may be physically challenging but it is definitely worth the effort as trekking is considered to be one of the best trekking experiences in India. The base of the camp is 2 km before Sonamarg and the first trek begins from Ninchai pass. From then on the trail proceeds to Vishansar lake and then on to Kishansar lake – Gadsar – Satsar – Nundkol lake – Narang. Distance Covered Duration Altitude Difficulty level Trek Cost 2. Naranag Gangabal Trek Photo by Thinkstock photos Naranag Gangabal Trek is another alluring trekking expedition that falls under the list of one of the most noteworthy treks in Kashmir. Gangabal Lake, located in the foothills of Mt. Haramukh in the Ganderbal district, this trek is believed to be extremely captivating to both the eyes and the soul. The Gangabal lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the region, whereas the Naranag is renowned for its scenic meadows and an ancient gem called Lord Shiva Temple. The trek is open most of the year but March – November is considered to be the most ideal time to walk the trek route. Distance Covered Duration Altitude Difficulty level Trek Cost 3. Tarsar Marsar Trek Photo by Tour My India The twin lakes of Tarsar Marsar have their own charm of being extremely bewitching and inviting as they host aesthetically delightful meadows, immaculate glacial lakes, pristine water bodies, and mesmerizing surroundings. Trekking along the lakes and en route, the clear blue afternoon sky creates an almost perfect state of dream-like beauty. The calming undertone that surrounds the trail holds an exemplary note for being loved and adored by all trekkers and visitors alike. The monsoon season of July – August is relatively the best time to enjoy the trek. Despite its duration, the route is pretty undemanding and so it can prove to be both tranquil to the body and the soul. Distance Covered Duration Altitude Difficulty level Trek Cost 4. Kolahoi Glacier Trek Photo by The Energy Resource of India The Kolahoi Glacier, usually referred to as the “Goddess of Light”, is a landmark valley glacier also iconic for being the highest glacier in Kashmir. Nestled below the Kolahoi mountain and above the Lidder valley, the 5 Km hanging glacier is truly magnificent in its own way. The trek takes you through the most riveting views of Kashmir valley. The journey along the trek will help you capture the true essence of the Himalayan valleys. The trek also provides an illustrious view of the sprawling green meadows, endearing waterfalls, and spellbinding coniferous forests. The trek route through lengthy can be said to be easy to moderate on a scale and hence fairly feasible to the body. The best time to experience the trek is from March – October. Distance Covered Duration Altitude Difficulty level Trek Cost 5. Tulian Lake Trek Image Source: Wikipedia Tulian Lake is a beautiful lake in Kashmir, India. It is situated in the Tulian Valley at an altitude of 12,086 feet. The lake is surrounded by towering peaks and snow-capped mountains, which makes it a perfect destination for trekkers and nature lovers alike. The Tulian Lake Trek is one of the most popular treks in Kashmir. It takes about 6 days to complete this trek which covers around 10 miles each day and can be done by anyone with a moderate level of fitness. The trail starts from the
Workation in Andaman: A Rejuvenating Experience (2022 Guide)
A vacation is something we all urge every year to rejoice. But, more than that, the ones who work from home need a workcation. A concept similar to vacation but much more professional in the sense. This allows a common ground for travel junkies who have been restricted to a strict 9-5 work schedule. A picture from the Vacationer Magazine As the word suggests, it is a combination between work and vacation. A workcation involves a destination that allows you to work there. Just imagine a beautiful beach view and you are relaxing and working from there. There is a certain sense of serenity that takes over, and in this state of calm, work productivity sure does increase. The best part about these workcations is that we can enjoy the environment of a certain region, without having to cut down on holidays. Another best thing is the weekends can be completely utilized for traveling and exploring the place you want. After all, is said and done, take a workcation at Andaman and Nicobar. This is ideal if you love traveling but are all caught up in work. Who even said that we could not move away and work remotely from a beautiful island while letting the scenic nature relax our work stress? Here’s all about the treasures of Andaman. A picture from Unsplash- Marissa Grootes Checkpoints before heading to the Workcation! Here are some things you should keep in mind before you pack your travel and work bags to change your work location! 01. Decide on a place: that is workcation friendly- as in do not choose a place where you will feel like traveling and exploring and will make you feel like you are missing out on things. So, you can either choose a place which has less tourism, or a place you have already visited. Also do not choose a location that has less network coverage, because we all know that is not very pleasing, especially when you are to receive a call from your office. Now if this is done, we move on. 02. Pack things of work that you might need even in the slightest chance. This is so that you do not miss out on anything and stress out the whole relaxation trip. 03. Make a schedule and dedicate specific hours to work, so that work isn’t at loss. Inform your colleagues as well about the specific work hours you will be available for work. 04. This said, while working, dedicate a specific workspace. With a workstation in place, nothing will ever let your work motivation go down the drain. 05. Get done with work as fast as you can, because even if you are working remotely, you are still on a vacation, so work it off and then relax and chill out at your location of choice. 06. The most important thing here is to have fun and explore, growth will come a long way. Also. keep yourself fit and healthy, by sticking to meals and staying hydrated. This is all you need to pack yourself a little fun and relax during work time, so take these workcations in Andaman, and get yourself ready for some serious relaxation and rejuvenation. Andaman and Nicobar is such a beautiful location with so many beautiful spots which are so ideal for a workcation. The scenic beaches and lush forests as well as small trails are a perfect companion for your relaxed time before or after work. You could chase a sunset after work, or even wait for the sunrise at the beach, it is all that you are comfortable with. This workcation is all about your comfort and relaxation, so that should be it. Also read about the other new travel trends amidst Covid-19. What kind of stay will you find in Andaman? A picture from the Unsplash-Alexander-Kaunas. Andaman and Nicobar Islands cater to a wide variety of users and visitors who range from one pole to another in their requirements. Yet, Andaman doesn’t fail to cater to all these requirements. Firstly, we see that there are all kinds of opportunities to stay, ranging from beachside resorts to hotels hidden in the jungles, and from authentic homestays to fusion hostels. So basically all kinds of requirements, which range from a low-cost budget stay to high-end spaces. One can also opt for a rental-based house if they choose a place to stay in the city for a longer time. Here are the locations where you will be relaxed by the beauty, but not so much lured into it to distract yourself. Perfect, right? A picture from the Unsplash-Nick-Kane-eal 1. Havelock Island How about a homestay on Havelock Island? Havelock Island is the main island and the most famous one. This island has a rich diversity of flora and fauna and also has very beautiful beaches. Most of the places here are well known, but certain rare locations are hidden and very less known. These are even more precious than the commonly known spaces, as they are untouched and beautiful in their charm. 2. Neil Island Neil island is also a very beautiful location. It is pure and scenic in its description and is very stunning. The white sands, with turquoise waters and lush green vegetation, are such a beautiful wonder. The sunsets and sunrises here are also some of the most picturesque along with their scenic wonders. 3. North Bay Island This island is a summer feel in the true sense. The beauty of the island lies in the gorgeous corals and marine life around the location. 4. Batarang Island Batarang island is known for its mangrove vegetation as well as other vegetation which makes it a truly scenic location. 5. Rutland Island The Island has a rich diversity of shrubs and trees and mountain
