Tuesday 28 July 2015

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Thailand

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Thailand

Cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai are bustling hives of activity and commerce, but you haven't really seen the country until you've trekked in the mountains or enjoyed some face-time with elephants or the bold monkeys (who will steal your lunch as soon as look at you). Thailand's attractions are diverse and each provides a rewarding and memorable experience in its own way.

1 Railay Beach

Railay Beach
Krabi province is home to some of Thailand's most famous beach destinations, and Railay is the cream of the crop. Widely considered one of the best beaches in the country, Railay delivers on promises of white sand beaches, clear blue water, and a feeling that you've found a slice of paradise. You have to take a boat to reach the island getaway, with services available from Krabi town and Ao Nang.
The beaches are the main reason to visit Railay, but it's also a rock-climbing hotspot. Railay's karst peaks draw adventurers both experienced and novice to try their hand at climbing the towering limestone cliffs. Among the many other active things to do, you can go elephant trekking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and snorkeling, or take on some lighter options such as cooking classes and indulging in a massage. There's also the tourist-friendly Diamond Cave, with a convenient walkway to accommodate curious visitors looking to do some exploring between stretches of sunbathing.

2 Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi
The Phi Phi Islands, also in Krabi, are one of Thailand's most popular resort areas for a reason. Only Phi Phi Don is inhabited, with day trips available to the surrounding islands. One of the fun spots on Koh Phi Phi is Monkey Beach, where you'll come face-to-face, literally, with the namesake creatures. You can hire a guide to take you out on a small wooden boat or rent your own kayak. There's also a small stand where you can buy snacks and fruit shakes, but hang onto your treats. If you leave them unguarded, the monkeys will brazenly dig in and chow down right in front of you. Long Beach is another nice spot on the island; it's not a secluded place, but is great for watching the sunset. If you're lucky and the tide is out, it's a beautiful walk back toward the main part of the island.
Tour operators offer packages for snorkeling and diving trips, as well as excursions to the infamous Maya Bay, where the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach was filmed. Because Koh Phi Phi draws so many tourists, there are plenty of tour companies arranging tickets to other beach destinations, such as PhuketKoh Chang, and Koh Lanta. Though you would hardly know to see it now, Phi Phi Don was one of the areas hit hard by the 2004 tsunami. Guesthouses, restaurants, and markets have been rebuilt and crowds still come in droves to the resort island. There is a small, somber memorial park to honor those who died in the tragedy, yet the resort areas appear otherwise revived.

3 The Grand Palace, Bangkok
The Grand Palace, Bangkok
Even if your plans for Thailand mainly involve frolicking on a beach, cozying up to elephants, and eating as much Massaman curry and tom ka gai as humanly possible, you'll probably spend at least a day or two in Bangkok. There's plenty to see and do in the capital, but it's perhaps best to start with the Grand Palace. This is the number one sightseeing attraction in the city, and it's staggering in historical significance and craftsmanship. The grounds are a maze of royal halls, temples, and ancient relics, the most important being Wat Phra Kaeo, Temple of the Emerald Buddha. A relic within this temple is said to be a piece of bone or hair from the enlightened Buddha himself. Allow several hours to do the Grand Palace justice, but if you're up for more walking afterward, you can easily take in some of the city's other major landmarks. The famousWat Po and Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn (a great place to watch the sunset), are also nearby. And as Bangkok is a main hub for international travel, it's a great starting point for excursions throughout the country.

4 Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai
Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai
Every Thailand visitor looks forward to cheap and delicious food, and it can be found in abundance at Chiang Mai's Sunday Night Walking Street. Vendors sell all kinds of treats: pad Thai, chicken satay, samosas, crab cakes, fried bananas, sweet rotees, and fresh fruit shakes - often for less than $2 a piece. When you've satisfied your culinary cravings, you can peruse hundreds of stalls selling an array of unique goods such as all-natural soaps, hand-dyed textiles bearing the unique patterns of local hill tribes, incense and essential oils, musical instruments, paintings, wall hangings, and more.
The market gets crowded every week without fail, no matter what time of year you're visiting, so brace yourself and try to enjoy being part of the throng. This is a must-do in Chiang Mai, and is an essential part of the Thailand experience. If you're not around for the Sunday market, or just want to get a taste of other market experiences in Chiang Mai, check out the Saturday Night Walking Street or the Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road, a daily event. For something less touristy, check out the daytime Warorot Market, near Mae Ping River.

5 Pai
Pai
Thailand's reputation as a country of beautiful landscapes and friendly people is thanks largely to the world-renowned southern beaches. Most people don't realize that the vast north is also home to breathtaking landscapes, though these are of a different nature entirely. Northern Thailand, particularly the western region near the Burmese border, is marked by mountainous jungle terrain that is both rugged and beautiful. Pai, in Mae Hong Son province, is a perfect place from which to enjoy the country's natural beauty as well as the famed Thai hospitality and cooking. This small town has developed a reputation as a mecca for hippies and backpackers, though you will see locals and families here as well. There is a small nightly walking street market, a variety of local and Western foods, and easy access to nearby temples, waterfalls, and the impressive Pai canyon. There is an air of cheerfulness and relaxation as you walk through the tiny town center, and it is this vibe that continues to draw crowds season after season.

6 Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai National Park
Elephants are revered in Thailand, and statues and paintings of them can be seen everywhere you go. There are many tour groups and elephant camps throughout the country allowing you to spend a day or more with the creatures, trekking through the jungle, bathing them, and even getting to help out with their morning feedings. But perhaps more exciting is the chance to see them in their natural environment, and Khao Yai National Park provides a great opportunity to do just that. You'll see elephants roaming near waterfalls, exotic birds of prey, monkeys, and plenty of other tropical creatures that call the park home. If a one-day stay isn't enough to take it all in, it's possible to camp out at the park and get up early enough to watch the sunrise over the lush landscape.

7 Sukhothai Old City
Sukhothai Old City
This is a favorite stop for history buffs and photography enthusiasts, as there are many lovely photo ops in this ancient capital of Thailand. Ruins of this old city still stand proud despite enduring centuries of battle and exposure to the elements. Sukhothai's Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and much has been invested to restore and preserve one of Thailand's most significant historical sites. Attractions here include many wats, which speak to the country's long history of Buddhist devotion. Each structure tells its own story of the old society, with relics and influences from other ancient civilizations appearing in the design of each.

8 Historic City of Ayutthaya
Historic City of Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya presents a glimpse into the glory of ancient Thailand, where visitors can wander the haunting but romantic ruins of the former capital. After the Sukhothai period, the city was the most important in Thailand, and the old palaces and temples stand as a testament to this. There are also several foreign settlements, where you can gain a greater understanding of the influence other countries had in Thailand at the time. Ayutthaya is located only a short bus trip or train ride from Bangkok, making it convenient for a day trip if you're pressed for time. If you're on a more leisurely schedule, plan on spending a few days in the ancient capital and rent a push-bike to tour both the old city and the new.

9 Doi Suthep
Doi Suthep
Perhaps the best-known wat in Chiang Mai sits atop Doi Suthep, a mountain overlooking Thailand's northern rose of a city. In a crowd of monks, devout Buddhist followers, and fellow travelers, you'll have a chance to marvel at intricate religious carvings, observe worship rituals, and gaze out over the ever-growing sprawl of Chiang Mai city. Just be sure to bring a bottle of water and your walking shoes - the staircase to the temple is steep. At the base of the stairs, vendors hawk everything from tasty local treats to goods handmade by villagers from the surrounding mountains. There's also a shop selling masks, elephant carvings, and home furnishings so you can do some shopping while recovering from the trek up and down the stairs.
You can combine your trip to Doi Suthep with excursions to Doi Pui, a small Hmong village in the mountains. It's far more touristy than other villages, but if you're on a tight schedule, this will give you a taste of Hmong culture and a chance to learn more about the hill tribe communities in the region, not to mention purchase some beautiful hand-woven textiles. The Bhubing Palace, open to tourists, is on the way to Doi Pui from Doi Suthep as well.
  • 10 Floating Markets
Floating Markets
A visit to one of the floating markets is a fun way to do some shopping and eating while supporting local vendors and observing local commerce in action. Some do seem to cater more to the tourist crowds than to be part of the fabric of local Thais' daily lives, but there are others that make for a nice authentic travel experience. You'll need to get up early to visit a floating market, as vendors are out in their long wooden boats first thing in the morning with their goods, fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and tasty dishes.
There are several floating markets near Bangkok, Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak being among the most popular. You can go it alone or join a guided tour, which can include visits to local houses and shops.

Thursday 23 July 2015

The Top 10 Tourist Destinations in India

The Top 10 Tourist Destinations in India

Agra

Taj-Mahal
Agra’s Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world, the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra.
Completed in 1653, the T?j Mahal was built by the Mughal king Sh?h Jah?n as the final resting place for his beloved wife, Mumt?z Mahal. Finished in marble, it is perhaps India’s most fascinating and beautiful monument. This perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years (1630-1652) of hard labour and 20,000 workers, masons and jewelers to build and is set amidst landscaped gardens.

Jaipur / Udaipur

Jaipur is also popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Jaipur is a very famous tourist and education destination in India.
Jaipur
Lots of people flock to Jaipur to view the various forts and monuments in Jaipur which reflect its glorious past. Tourism is a significant part of Jaipur’s economy. Some of the world’s best hotels are located here.
Forts & Monuments
  • Hawa Mahal
  • Amber Fort
  • Jaigarh Fort
  • Nahargarh Fort
  • City Palace
  • Jantar Mantar
  • Jal Mahal
  • Rambagh Palace
  • Chandra Mahal, The City Palace, Jaipur
  • Diwan-e-Aam, City Palace
  • Central Museum, (Albert Hall Museum)

Goa

Goa is Famous for its pristine beaches, infact 90% of all the tourism in Goa happens only for its beautiful beaches in Coastal Areas. Goa has two main tourist seasons: winter and summer. In the winter time, tourists from abroad (mainly Europe) come to Goa to enjoy the splendid climate. In the summertime (which, in Goa, is the rainy season), tourists from across India come to spend the holidays.
Goa
In 2008 there were more than three million tourists reported to have visited Goa, more than half million of whom were from Foreign visitors. Infact, many foreigners have made Goa as there home for its laid-back and relaxed lifestyle !

Kashmir

Kashmir was once called Heaven on Earth, and once of the most beautiful places in the world. However, in last couple of decades, terrorism has faded its charm – A place home to Himalayan Ranges.
kashmir
The State of Jammu & Kashmir has main three geographical regions known as “The Lesser Himalayas” or the “Jhelum Valley” (Kashmir), “The Inner Himalayas” or “The Indus Valley” (Ladakh & Frontier areas) also called “Trans-Himalayas”, and “The Outer-Himalayas” or “The Southern mountain range” (Jammu). The area of Jammu & Kashmir is 2, 22,236 square kilometers.

Kanyakumari

kanyakumari
Though there are several places of tourist-interest in the town and district, Kanyakumari is especially popular in India for its spectacular and unique sunrise and sunset. The confluence of three ocean bodies – the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea – makes the sunrise and sunset even more special. On balmy, full-moon evenings, one can also see the moon-rise and sunset at the same time – on either side of the horizon.

Kerala (Backwaters)

Kerala-backwaters
Kerala, situated on the lush and tropical Malabar Coast, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Named as one of the “ten paradises of the world” and “50 places of a lifetime” by the National Geographic Travelermagazine, Kerala is especially known for its ecotourism initiatives, Beautiful Backwaters and Alternative healing massages.

Old Delhi

Delhi, Capital of India has many attractions like mosques, forts and other monuments that represent India’s history. The important places in Old Delhi include the majestic Red Fort. New Delhi on the other hand houses many government buildings and embassies, apart from places of historical interest.
Qutub-Minar
The Qutub Minar, Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb have been declared World Heritage Sites.

Ajanta Ellora

Ajantha-Ellora
Ajantha & Ellora are 28 – 30 rock-cut cave monuments created during the first century BC and 5th century AD, containing paintings and sculptures considered to be masterpieces of both Buddhist religious art and universal pictorial art.
The caves are located just outside the village of Ajantha / Ellora in Aurangabad district in the Indian state of Maharashtra.
Since 1983, the Ajanta & Ellora Caves have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling in India owes’ its grandeur to its natural beauty, its clean fresh mountain air and above all, the smiling resilient people for whom it is a home. Known for its natural splendor, Darjeeling’s best gift to its’ visitors is the dawn of a new day. The mountains awaken first with a tentative peeking of the sun.
darjeeling
A steep ride, five kilometers from Ghoom, or an invigorating walk up a steep incline, leads sun worshippers to Tiger Hill. The air is chilly with darkness and damp. To the east, a dull orange sun emerged painting the sky with brilliant strokes of magenta, gold, orange and fuchsia. The snow capped Everest, Kabru, Kanchenjunga, Jannu and other peaks slowly emerge from slumber to start a new day. The sun worshippers gasp at the magnificent sight.

Mysore

mysore-palace
Mysore is a tourism hot spot within the state of Karnataka and also acts as a base for other tourist places in the vicinity of the city. The city receives the maximum number of tourists during the period of the Dasara festival when festivities take place for a period of 10 days. One of the most visited monuments in India, the Ambavilas Palace (also known as Mysore Palace) is the center of the Dasara festivities.
New Additions [2014]

Leh / Ladakh

Leh Ladakh
Leh Ladakh
The Ladakh capital city of Leh lies near the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir, on the crossroads of the historic “Silk Route” from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India. The humbling monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thikse and Lamayuru will nurture your spiritual needs, and the landscape of Leh provides for a number of adventure activities including mountaineering, white-water rafting and trekking along the Markha Valley.

Gangtok

Gangtok
Gangtok
The capital of the state of Sikkim, Gangtok is an attractive tourist destination, reflecting a unique ambience which derives from its happy blend of tradition and modernity. Alongside the deeply felt presence of stupas and monasteries, Gangtok also bustles like any other thriving town. Some of the key places to visit include Rumtek Monastery, Do-Drul Chorten, Enchey Monastery, Tashi View Point and the local bazaar, Lal Bazaar.

Wednesday 22 July 2015

Breathtakingly Beautiful Places In India You Must Visit Before You Die

Breathtakingly Beautiful Places In India You Must Visit Before You Die

1. Yumthang Valley - Sikkim

Yumthang Valley is a grazing pasture surrounded by the Himalayan mountains in
 North Sikkim. At a height of 3,564 metres above sea level, it's popularly known as
 the 'Valley of Flowers'.

yumthank valley sikkim


2. Tea garden hill of Munnar

Munnar is a town that's situated in the southwestern region of Kerala. It's practically
 covered fully with Tea plantations, some as high as 7000 feet above sea level.

tea garden hill of munnar


3. Stok Range, Ladakh

At 11, 845 feet, Stok Kangri in Stok Range has is a popular mountain among 
climbers and mountaineers. It's often considered as a practice run for Everest.
stok range ladhak

4. Nubra Valley, Ladakh

Nubra is a high altitude cold desert with rare precipitation and scant vegetation.

Nubra_valley_hunder 

5. Nohkalikai Falls, Cherrapunji

Located near Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on earth, Nohkalikai Falls is
one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India. Name of the falls (in Khasi language - 
"Jump of Ka Likai") is linked to a legend about a local woman, Likai, who after
 a family tragedy became insane and jumped off the cliff next to the falls.
Nohkalikai falls_cherrapunji 

6. Nanda Devi

It's the second highest mountain in India. While the peak is not that easy 
to climb for regular folks like us, but the surrounding Nanda Devi National
Park is a must visit atleast once in a lifetime.

Nanda devi mountain


7. Mizoram

Mizoram is a land of rolling hills, valleys, rivers and lakes. As many as 21 major 
hill ranges or peaks of different heights run through the length and breadth of 
the state, with plains scattered here and there.

mizoram


8. Lonar Sarovar, Maharashtra

The Lonar Lake is a saline soda lake located at Lonar in Buldana district,
 Maharashtra, India which was created by a meteor impact.
Meteor impact at sonar

9. Matheran

The smallest hill station in India, Matheran which is only 90 km from Mumbai,
 provides a pretty dramatic view of the sunset and the sunrise.

matheran


10. Leh

Leh, the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh is best experienced via road
 trips from New Delhi.
leh


11. Key Monastery

Key Gompa is a Tibetian Buddhist Monastery located on top of a hill at an altitude
of 13, 668 feet above sea level close to the Spiti river in Himachal Pradesh. 
It reportedly, was started by 100 monks in 1855.

key monastery


12. Kashmir

It's not called paradise on Earth for nothing.
kashmir


13. Hoggenakal Falls

This waterfall in South India on the river Kaveri is sometimes also referred to as
 the "Niagara Falls" of India.

Hoggenakal Falls_south india_kaveri river


14. Tungnath, Uttarakhand

Located at an altitude of 12, 073 Feet, at Tungnath mountains you can also find 
the oldest Hindu shrine of Lord Shiva.
EP1


15. Drang Drung Glacier, Near Kargil

It takes about 2 days to get here from the Srinagar airport.
Drang Dung Glacier


16. Deodar Forest, Himachal Pradesh

deodar forest himachal pradesh


17. Andamans

It has 325 islands which cover an area of 6,408 km2, with the Andaman Sea to the
 east between the islands and the coast of Burma.

andamans

Friday 17 July 2015

Dubai Top 10 Tourist Attractions

Dubai Top 10 Tourist Attractions


New or moving to Dubai? We know there's so much to see and do so we've put together our 'favourites' list of the best things to do. 
 
Whether you're a resident  entertaining visitors, or even a tourist yourself, you'll be able to pull together a fabulous itinerary using our guide to Dubai's iconic and top attractions. 


1. Burj Al Arab

burj al arab dubai

The Burj Al Arab (Tower of the Arabs) is the world's only 7 star hotel and designed to resemble a billowing sail, the Burj Al Arab soars to a height of 321 metres, dominating the Dubai skyline making it the fourth tallest hotel in the world.

It truly is one of the most iconic symbols of Dubai and is a majestic building. No trip to Dubai would be complete without at least seeing it!

There are various view points you can take photos from but one of the best is from the public beach next to it... there you will get that Dubai shot of you on the beach with The Burj in the back ground.

It is one of the most photographed structures in the world, and consistently voted the worlds most luxurious hotel. It is illuminated at night by choreographed lighting making it an impressive building day or night!


2. Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa
 
The Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest tower and is an amazing feat of engineering- the story of which you can see if you take a trip to "At The Top"- the highest viewing platform in the world.

The high point of any Burj Khalifa experience is the view from At The Top. Located on level 124 of the world's tallest tower, this observatory is destined to be the highlight of any visit to the Middle East.

The journey begins in the lower ground level of The Dubai Mall. Throughout the journey to the top, visitors are entertained by a multi-media presentation of the exotic history of Dubai and the marvel that is the Burj Khalifa.

EW top tip is to buy your tickets online in advance as you can save about 300 Dhs per person doing this. The slots sell out fast though- especially the sun set ones so make sure you get booked in in time!


3. The Dubai Fountains

The Dubai Fountains
 
At the base of the world's tallest tower is one of the world's most amazing fountains! In fact it is the world's largest dancing fountain!

Set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake, the fountain shoots water jets as high as 500 ft, equivalent to that of a 50-storey building. The fountain is 900 ft  long and has five circles of varying sizes and two central arcs. It is designed by California-based WET, the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas.

The Dubai Fountain performs daily, with the performance repertoire including Sama Dubai; Baba Yetu, an award-winning song in Swahili; the Arab world’s top-selling dance number Shik Shak Shok; and the signature piece of world-renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, Con te partiro (Time to Say Goodbye).

Over 6,600 WET Superlights and 25 colour projectors create a visual spectrum of over 1,000 abstract attractions. The beam of light shining upward from the fountain can be seen from over 20 miles away, and will be visible from space making it the brightest spot in the Middle East, and quite possibly in the entire world.

4. Atlantis Hotel

atlantis hotel dubai

Atlantis is the majestic resort in Dubai situated on the Palm, a man-made island that has captured the world’s imagination with its magnificent scale and ingenuity.

From the moment you arrive, you will be immersed in a dazzling world of imagination, pleasure and luxury of 5-star hotels.

The resort offers relaxation and thrills for couples and families alike, including:
  • Unique marine habitats- The Lost Chambers
  • An exhilarating water park- Aquaventure
  • Pristine white beaches
  • World-class cuisine in 18 restaurants,
  • An indulgent spa (ShuiQi) to awaken your senses
  • Cosmopolitan boutiques to shop until your heart is content


5. Global Village

global village dubai

For the past 15 years, Global Village has been providing cultural entertainment along with an international shopping experience to millions of visitors.

Breathtaking live performances, mouth-watering cuisine, authentic handicrafts and merchandise from different countries await you at the many national pavilions in Global Village.

There are many more attractions, including thrilling rides, games and firework displays, to complete your visit. Global Village is open from November to March every year, some year's the extravaganza is extended sometimes well into April - it's worth checking their website for more details if your trip falls over the March / April cut off.


6. Palm Island

Palm Jumeirah
 
Palm Jumeirah has everything you need to enjoy a wonderful holiday break. World famous hotel names, amazing tourist attractions, luxury fashion and shopping malls are starting to open up. Whether you just want to relax or immerse yourself in an exciting world of leisure and entertainment, this is a truly inspirational holiday destination in Dubai.

Visitors will come to enjoy the magnificent sunsets, unwind in the spas, pools and gardens and eat out at the fine selection of restaurants. There's a wide range of daytime activities, including water sports, aquariums, theme parks and of course miles of beautiful beaches. And at night, the bars, clubs and shows will offer plenty of fun and amusement.


7. Dubai Creek

dubai creek

The natural seawater inlet that cuts through the centre of the city is the historical part of Dubai where visitors can take an abra (small water taxi) and view the old trading port and the dhows from the water.

A cruise to Al Maktoum Bridge will pass many of the city's historic as well as modern landmarks. A stroll around the wharf offers a picturesque glimpse of Dubai's trading heritage, where dhows bound for distant places dock to unload their goods.

The Creek, a natural sea water inlet which cuts through the centre of the city, is the historic focal point of life in Dubai. A stroll along its banks evokes the city’s centuries-old trading traditions.

Visitors will be captivated by the colour and bustle of the loading and unloading of dhows which still ply ancient trade routes to places as distant as India and East Africa.


8. Ski Dubai

SKi Dubai
 
Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East and offers an amazing snow setting to enjoy skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing, or just playing in the snow. Young or old, there is something for everyone, from the beginner to the snow sport enthusiast. Ski Dubai is a unique mountain-themed attraction that offers you the opportunity to enjoy real snow in Dubai all year round.

You don't have to worry about ski clothing or equipment either. Ski Dubai has thought of it all and offers guests the use of winter clothing, ski and snowboard equipment. Your skis will carry you down the slope and our quad-chairlift and tow lift will promptly carry you back to the top for another run.


9. Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina
 
One of Dubai's newer tourist attractions is Dubai marina. The marina is set in the backdrop of the amazing buildings of JBR and has great views, walkways and boat rides available. It is amazing either during the day or in the evenings. Dubai Marina is the largest man-made marina in the world and is home to super yachts and also Dubai Marina Mall.

Set in the heart of ‘new Dubai’, Dubai Marina Yacht Club (DMYC) has rapidly gained a reputation as one of the renowned private yacht clubs of the region, with a purpose built clubhouse forming the centre-piece of four distinctive marinas. Arrayed along the length of a remarkable 3.5km canal, the marinas provide sheltered berthing for over five hundred yachts, in a setting that is simply unrivalled.

With a choice of casual or fine dining restaurants, a lively Sports Lounge, or the tranquillity of the club lounges, all ensure that the clubhouse is a place of refuge throughout the week and not just simply a weekend get-away. For the keen yachting enthusiast, the club organises the increasingly renowned ‘Cruising Club’, which offers exclusively to DMYC members the opportunity to explore regional yachting destinations, and to join the regular series of workshops and seminars with fellow yachtsmen.


10. Wild Wadi

Wild Wadi

Located in front of the  Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi offers 30 rides and attractions for all the family.

Wild Wadi is themed around the tale of Juha, a known character from the Arabian folklore.

Wednesday 15 July 2015

Places In Chhattisgarh

Places In Chhattisgarh

Every place has something unique; however, unique places have everything unique about them. It takes a lot of consideration while you look to decide on a travel destination. You may be trying your best to identify the spot that offers you what you need. You may love to reach out to a place that has great monuments or somewhere that gives you spectacular landscape. You may have a passion for palaces and you may be interested in a place that boasts of high cultural values and tradition. Your interests may be diversified and hence you may seek a place that offers the best of both worlds in which case, Chhattisgarh is the justified option for you. Tourist places in Chhattisgarh has a lot to offer including stunning waterfalls, scenic landscapes, caves, temples, heritage sites and paintings. It is indeed a tough task to choose the top 10 among the many places to visit in Chhattisgarh. Here is an attempt at identifying the top 10 places you need to visit on your tour to Chhattisgarh.

1. Chitrakot Waterfall

Chitrakot Waterfall
Famously known as Niagara Falls of India,Chitrakot Waterfalls is located 38 km away from Jagdalpur. The falls is the broadest in India, it falls from a height of 96 ft, and during the season, the width is above 1000 feet. The shape of the waterfalls resembles horseshoe. The forest area around the waterfalls offers spectacular views.

2. Kawardha Palace


The location of Kawardha Palace itself is amazing. It is located at 941 meters altitude above sea level on Maikal Ranges. It palace is in a massive 11 acre-land and you will be spellbound by the lovely garden. Italian marbles and stones were used in constructing the palace, which dates back to the 1930s. The palace is a glorious example of the culture of the place. The palace is declared as a heritage hotel and you will love to find yourself accommodated here. The lush gardens make you feel close to nature.

3. Achanakumar Wildlife Sanctuary

Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary
Achanakumar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at a distance of 60 km from Bilaspur. It was established in the year 1975. The dense forest is home to various wild animals, which include tiger, bison, leopard, bear, sambar, hyena and so on. Watchtowers are the best way to view wild animals in action as the density of the forest and its topography make it difficult to view wildlife.

4. Kailash And Kutumsar Caves


Kailash and Kotumsar Caves are located near Tiratgarh Waterfalls amidst the dense forests located at a distance of 40 kilometer from Jagdalpur. Ranked second in the list of longest natural caves all over the world, Kutumsar Caves are not accessible beyond a certain limit. The restriction of movement is owing to non-availability of oxygen inside the two-kilometer deep caves. Kailash Cave was discovered in the year 1993. Situated on a small hill, the important feature of the cave is the musical sounds created on striking of hand in the hollow walls.

5. Maitri Bagh

Maitri Bagh
Friendship. This is a result of cooperation between Indian and Russian governments. Maitri Bagh was established by Bhilai Steel Plant. The zoo cum park offers various attractions and it is one of the famous picnic spots in the state. There are beautiful lakes and gardens and the musical fountains in the garden is a feast to eyes. It is the biggest zoo in Chhattisgarh.

6. Bastar Palace



Bastar Palace is an ancient construction built when the kings of Bastar shifted their capital to Jagdalpur. The palace is rich in architecture and it tells tales of bravery of the rulers who ruled the land. The unique carvings on the walls of the palace are stunning. The monument constructed by the government inside the grounds of the palace offers artifacts and portraits of the rulers of the past. Do not miss the opportunity to ride on horse carriage when you are in the city.

7. Kanker Palace


Known earlier as Radhanivas Bagicha, Kanker Palace was built in the 20th century and rebuilt in the year 1937. The elegant palace reveals the influence of colonial architecture. The magnificent construction is located in the scenic landscape and the lush gardens surrounding the palace is awe inspiring. The place and the palace offer great views and you will find various activities to get involved in right from boat safaris, jeep safaris and many more.

8. Gadiya Mountain


Once in Chhattisgarh, you would not want to miss the highest mountain in Kanker and that is Gadiya Mountain. Gadiya Mountain served as capital to King Dharma Dev of Kandra dynasty after his victory here. The cave found here was the hideout for the royal family during war. The southern part of the great mountain houses another cave, which is known as Jogi Gufa. This cave was used by sages to meditate. The water tank here is famous as it is said that it never dries.

9. Rajpuri Waterfall


Rajpuri Waterfall is located near Bagicha, which is 90km from the headquarters. The natural beauty of the place attracts tourists from all around. The entire place is enchanting with tribal villages around it. The ancient touch associated with the rocks in the area and the rich natural beauty makes this place one among the important tourist destinations.

10. Bhoramdeo Temple

Bhoramdeo Temple

The ancient temple will necessitate a visit if you love the feeling of being amongst the glorious past. Constructed somewhere between the 7th and 11th centuries, the temple is called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. Located amidst the picturesque setting of Maikal mountains, Bhoramdeo Temple offers spectacular views. It is considered as the most beautifully decorated temple. It has religious sculptures as well as erotic sculptures.
Offering a perfect combination of ancient monuments, natural sceneries, palaces and temples, Chhattisgarh is the right place to be on a tour if you are looking for variety with a higher level of culture and heritage to go with it. Enjoy your stay at Chhattisgarh and ensure that you do not miss the top ten places mentioned here.