Month: October 2017

Kullu and Manali in Himachal Pradesh Attractions

Kullu and Manali have always been one of the favorite hill stations for tourists. Located in the heart of Kullu valley, Manali is at the altitude of 1950 m. Whether it’s for honeymoon tour or for any holiday trip, these spellbinding cities of Himachal Pradesh have given great pleasure to visitors till now. The places are very popular due to its exciting attractions and adventure activities. People from all across the globe come to see the snow-capped mountains and natural beauty of the city. Visiting here is like being in the lap of nature. In every trip, it gives a new feeling and joy. Elegant flora and fauna surrounded by pine and cedar trees simply add glisters to landscape beauty. Kullu and Manali are beautiful places that have several tourist spots to discover and explore. Kullu and Manali in Himachal Pradesh Attractions Major Tourist Attractions in Kullu Kullu is the most striking & charming city, widely popular for its hot springs, snowy hills and scenic beauties. It’s a magical hill station known as ‘the valley of gods’. Right from newly married couples to adventure or nature lovers, all can explore the city and experience romantic & adventurous moments, enjoying amidst snow-clad valleys and mountains. There are some popular destinations in Kullu, which are must-see for tourists during their holiday trip. These include: Great Himalayan National Park This National Park gives unparallel ecological views of the western Himalaya headed to the formation of the Great Himalayan National Park in the district Kullu of Himachal Pradesh. This park is popular due to its wildlife species of Western Himalaya like Brown bear, Musk deer, Thar, Leopard, Goral, Bharal, Serow, Monal, Snow leopard, Kalij, Koklas, Tragopan, Cheer, etc. Tourists love to trek Rakti-Sar and for some camping in alpine pastures is memorable. Apart from these, there are many kinds of small mammals that include Giant Indian Flying Squirrel, Porcupine, Himalayan Weasel, Indian Pika and Yellow Throated Marten. The park remains open all throughout the year but huge rush is found from April- June and September-November. Bijli Mahadev Temple Bijli Mahadev, one of the famous sacred temples of Himachal Pradesh, is situated at the top of Kullu Valley (2,460 m). Many people from all across the world visit here to worship Lord Shiva. The main specialty of this temple is that the devotees or priests draw the divine blessing in the way of lightning. It is truly believed that the priest has to furbish up the Shiva Linga positioned inside the temple with the help of sattoo and butter after every lightning because it bursts into pieces with lightning flash. There are two statues of the bull, that is Nandi (Lord Shiva’s vehicle), which truly adorns the temple doors. The 60 feet high staff of this temple always sparkles in the sun like a silver needle. Undoubtedly, it is one of the favorite spots for tourists and the local populace too. Bhrigu Lake Popular as ‘Pool of the Gods’, Bhrigu Lake is the pleasing water body that attracts several visitors every year. Positioned at 4240 m altitude above sea level, this lake is amongst snow-capped mountains, where many legends and beliefs are associated. Nehru Kund adds extra beauty to this lake, which is fed by the Bhrigu Lake’s water. It is one of the striking lakes of Kullu Regions, extremely loved by nature lovers. One can get the best shots during sunrise while morning sun rays make a glary effect on the waters. Raghunathji Temple The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, which is located at an altitude of 2,050 m above sea level. There are many religious activities like Dusshera that brings huge crowds of tourists and pilgrims. During festivals, the temple is decorated with lights, which gives a different appeal. This temple is very old and popular in Himachal. Developed in a blend of Pahari and Pyramidal style, this temple is truly believed to be the safeguard of the entire valley. Many tourists visit here to enjoy the Dusshera festival and capture some unforgettable moments with them. Sultanpur Palace Sultanpur Palace, also popular as Rupi Palace, is situated nearby Ragunath Temple. Its architecture is a perfect blend of Pahari and colonial styles. It was rebuilt in the surrounding area of the old palace that was destroyed in earthquake. The entrance has wonderful look with large gates of wooden logs and overseeing the Lord Ganesha presence. The interior design is excellent and there are some wall paintings that always look fresh. The palace is especially popular for its miniature paintings, made on themes without any human figures. Basheshwar Mahadev Temple Just 15 kms away from Kullu, there is Basheshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is of pyramidal shape and houses a huge ‘Yoni-Lingam’ idol that highlights Lord Shiva and his wife Goddess Parvati. It’s a scenic religious place, extremely popular all across northern India for its flat shikhara. Akhara Bazaar This bazaar is one of the famous market and shopping areas of this valley. This market remains open all throughout the year and people from all across the globe come here to shop various collections of gudmas, puhlas, shawls, etc. Camping Site Raison Just 16 Kms away from Kulu, Camping Site Raison is one of the perfect spot to spend holidays for youths. Large numbers of orchards are found in this valley. Kasol Just 42 kms away from Kullu, Kasol is situated in the bank of Paravati River. It makes a good holiday destination for tourists. It is the main hang out spot for visitors. The place is quite popular for trout fishing. Huge numbers of internet cafes and travel agents are also available there for tourist’s assistance. Its scenic valley, snowy mountains and great climate enthrall trekkers, backpackers and nature enthusiasts. Katrain Here comes the central and the most extensive part of the valley ‘Katrain’, which is only 20 Kms away from Kullu. This tourist spot is quite popular for bee keeping and Government Trout Farm at Patilkulh. The scenic view of the Beas

BEST ATTRACTIONS IN DUBAI

Things to do in Dubai From Burj Khalifa to Palm Jumeirah, here are must-see attractions in Dubai Dubai is a city that must be seen to be believed. Record-breaking architecture stands alongside traditional quarters, while man-made islands jut out of the coastline. Here are the top places to tick off your sightseeing list when you’re in town. Burj Khalifa Iconic Dubai DISCOVER A TRULY UNIQUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Standing 828 metres high, the Burj Khalifa is hard to miss. The world’s tallest tower naturally dominates the Dubai skyline, but the true majesty of the building is best appreciated up close or, even better, from inside. On a clear day, the view from the observation deck on level 124 is absolutely stunning, topped only by the view from the luxurious At The Top Sky Lounge on the 148th floor. And for those who would like to linger for a meal in the clouds, Atmosphere on level 122 is the place to be. The Dubai Mall A shopper’s paradise REDEFINE THE MEANING OF SHOPPING Right next to the Burj Khalifa is The Dubai Mall. To call the sprawling development merely a shopping mall is doing it a disservice. Even an entire day spent here isn’t enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue is home to an indoor theme park, an ice rink, a huge indoor waterfall, a choreographed outdoor fountain and the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. The Dubai Fountain An awe-inspiring show WITNESS WATER DANCE IN THE CENTRE OF DOWNTOWN DUBAI The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa and just outside the doors of the famous Dubai Mall, features the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. This popular dancing water show jets water streams as high as 150 metres in the air. Each colourful, illuminated jet sways in time to various musical numbers from around the world, producing what has become the one of the most popular shows in Dubai. Two showings occur in the afternoon (1pm and 1:30pm), except on Fridays (1:30pm to 2pm) and evening displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes until the final song plays at 11pm. Palm Jumeirah A palm-shaped island EXPLORE ONE OF DUBAI’S ARCHITECTURAL TRIUMPHS A man-made island in the shape of a palm tree – there’s a reason why locals say ‘only in Dubai.’ Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest artificial islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the Palm’s vast array of high-end hotels, including the Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and, perhaps most notably, the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. And with a monorail running down the ‘trunk’ that connects to the mainland’s tram system, getting there couldn’t be easier. Dubai Creek Ancient trade routes STEP INTO OLD DUBAI’S WINDING WATERWAYS AND SOUKS Dubai may be famous for the glitz and glamour of its sky-high towers, but the real heart of the city is, and always will be, the Creek. The saltwater estuary is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe settled, and its waters were vital for what used to be Dubai’s main forms of economy: pearl diving and fishing. Today, the area is awash with the history of the emirate, as it’s home to the Dubai Museum as well as the labyrinthine alleyways of the gold, spice and textile souks. While at the Creek, a ride across the water on a traditional abra is a must, and at an unbelievable AED1 per ticket, it’s easily the best value tourist attraction in the city.