Manipur – The Jewel of India

Manipur is a state in northeastern India , with the city Imphal as its capital. It is also known as the jewel of India.Surrounded by nine hills with an oval shaped valley at the center, a natural made Jewel and hence the name “A Jeweled land”. Apart from being a nature’s gift to India, It is also a melting pot of culture. It is the birthplace of Polo, the sport and the birthplace of Ras Lila, a classical dance form. It acts as India's "Gateway to the East" through Moreh and Tamu towns, the land route for trade between India and Burma and other Southeast Asian countries.It has the highest number of handicrafts units and the highest number of crafts persons in the northeastern region of India.

Top 5  Places to visit in Manipur

1. Loktak Lake:

 

Loktak Lake, the lifeline of Manipur, is considered the largest fresh water lake in the whole of Northeast India. It also owns the pride of being the only floating lake the world over as it has floating phumdis on it. Phumdis meaning, a series of floating islands, is seen only in Loktak Lake. The lake is the major source of drinking water, electricity and irrigation. You can find a wide range of endangered wildlife and plants in the lake.

2.Shirui hill:

Shirui Lily or Siroi lily and Botanical name Lilium Mackliniae Sealy, is known worldwide for its rare and modest beauty. It is found in the upper reaches on the third peak of Siroi hill ranges in the Ukhrul district of Manipur, India, at an elevation of 1730m-2590m above mean sea level. It is the State flower of Manipur since 21-3-1989 but has unfortunately become a rare and endangered species in India. A postal stamp was issued by the Indian Postal Department to commemorate this flower. 

3. Ima Market: The world's only all women run market place in manipur: 

an unique symbol of manipur's  history, ima keithel (which mean mothers's market) is believed to be the largest women market in the world. with  its vibrant array of textiles, spices, fresh fruits and vegetables, Ima Keithal can be mistaken for any other bustling bazaar in India but it has one distinct difference – the 5000 traders manning its stalls are exclusively women. Located in the heart of Imphal, this sprawling 500-year-old market has long been an important meeting ground and trading hub of Manipur.

4. Imphal war cemetry:

The Imphal War Cemetery is located in Imphal, the capital of the Indian state of Manipur, in Northeast India, which has an international border with upper Burma (now Myanmar). The cemetery has 1,600 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War and is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission

5. Kangla fort:

The Palace of Kangla is an old palace at Imphal in Manipur (Kangleipak). It was situated on both sides (western and eastern) of the bank of the Imphal River. But now it remains only on the western side of the bank. Only the ruins remain now. Kangla means "dry land" in old Meitei. It was the traditional seat of the past Meitei rulers of Manipur.

Famous Island to visit in India

India is a nation of astonishing contrasts that includes snow top peaks, one of the longest beaches, inactively desert and evergreen forest . India is surrounded by figures  water from three sides . Here is the list of famous and beautiful island in India.

1.Andaman and Nicobar Island

 

The Andaman Islands are an Indian archipelago in the Bay of Bengal. These roughly 300 islands are known for their palm-lined, white-sand beaches, mangroves and tropical rain forests. Coral reefs supporting marine life such as sharks and rays make for popular diving and snorkeling sites. Indigenous Andaman Islanders inhabit the more remote islands, many of which are off limits to visitors.

2 .Rameshwaram island

    

Pamban Island, also known as Rameswaram Island, is an island located between peninsular India and Sri Lanka. The island is a part of India and forms the Rameswaram taluk of the Ramanathapuram district of the state of Tamil Nadu.

3.Elephanta island

 Elephanta Island (also called Gharapuri Island or place of caves or Pory Island) is one of a number of islands in Mumbai Harbour, east of Mumbai, India.This island is a popular tourist destination because of the island's cave temples, the Elephanta Caves, that have been carved out of rock.

4.Diu island

 

Diu Island is lying off the south coast of Gujarat's Kathiawar peninsula, separated from the mainland by a tidal creek. It has an area of 40 km², and a population of 44,110. It belongs to Diu District and lies 5 km to the east of Diu Head.

5.Majuli island

Mājuli or Majoli is a river island in the Brahmaputra River, Assam, India and the 1st island district of the country.The island is formed by the Brahmaputra river in the south and the Kherkutia Xuti, an anabranch of the Brahmaputra, joined by the Subansiri River in the north. Mājuli island is accessible by ferries from the city of Jorhat. The island is about 300–400 kilometres  east from the state's largest city ,Guwahati. It was formed due to course changes by the river Brahmaputra and its tributaries, mainly the Lohit.

Spiritual places in India

India is woven with spiritual ethos. The more you travel to this sacred land the more your love will turn eternal. Your taste will change contributing to a change in your preferences, perspectives, life style and finally you change. Synonymous with ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, India is known for tourist coming repeatedly to this land of spiritual blessings. Probe deeper into India and you will find the land more than a physical territory, a land that gives you access to God. The spiritual places in India are diverse as the country’s different religions. One would find everything from sacred Hindu cities to ancient Buddhist monasteries. Spiritual India even offers much for individuals seeking awareness and Knowledge. You should visit the sacrosanct places to maximize your spiritual and religious experience in India.

Top 5 places to visit :

1.The Amritsar Golden Temple

Amritsar is the spiritual capital of the Sikhs and the major attraction is the Golden Temple. The temple looks mesmerizing at night and even worth a visit at day time for prayer. Pilgrims take a bath in the Amrit Sarovar, a scared water pool around the golden Temple. Volunteers prepare free meals for pilgrims and the temple is open to people from all religion and faiths. Also take a trip to Wagah Border between India and Pakistan. The parade of troops and the change of guard is a must watched ceremony.

2.Kedarnath:

Kedarnath is a holy town located in the state of Uttarakhand in the Rudra Himalaya range. It’s a thousand year old temple built of massive stone and a home to Lord Shiva in the form of ‘Jyotirlingam’ or the cosmic light. Kedarnath is highest among 12 Jyotirlingas. A journey to Kedarnath can be the most sacred and religious journey in any individual’s life. Outside the temple stands a large statue of Nandi Bull. The temple is very ancient and renovated over centuries.

3.Se Cathedral, Goa

Reckoned as one of the largest churches in India, Se Cathedral is dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria. This church was built in order to revel the victory of Portuguese under a Muslim army, which led to the capture of the city of Goa. Since this triumph coincidentally happened on the feast of St. Catherine, the cathedral was dedicated to her. The construction of the chutrch began in 1562 and was completed in 1619. The church measures 250m in height and 181 in breadth. The highlight of the church is its “Golden Bell”, which is said to be one of the best bells in the world . On the main Altar, there are a few old paintings that are dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria. On the right, there is a chapel, which is also known as Cross of Miracles.

4.Jama Masjid, Ajmer:

An exotic tourist destination built during the Mughal reign in India, Jama Masjid of Ajmer is located in Lohakhan Colony of Ajmer, Rajasthan. This grand mosque was constructed under the supervision of Shahjahan in 1638 as a sign of gratitude after his triumph in the battle against the Rana of Mewar. This 45m long mosque has 11 arches and bears Persian inscriptions on its walls. Built in pristine white marbles, this architectural marvel is divided into three parts. The prayer hall of this mosque is designed in a star shape. The mosque is close to the hallowed shrine of Moinuddin Chisti and is thronged by huge crowd during annual Urs festival.

5.Tawang Monastery:

The Tawang Monastery is the largest Monastery in India, located in the Tawang Town of Arunachal Pradesh state India. Tawang Monastery also known in Tibetan as Galden Namgey Lhatse is one of the biggest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in India and in the world too.

Exotic Wedding Destination in India

Do you want to marry me?”… “Yes!!!”So what comes next? Wedding planning…right! Most of the Indian couples want a grand wedding ceremony away from their hustle and bustle city life and so choosing a beautiful wedding destination has become a trend nowadays. But, to make your wedding day special and memorable for lifetime, you need to choose the best destination that would be your worth getting married at.
Let’s talk about India, a country of diverse races and communities. The country offers excellent wedding destinations with choices variegating from ceremonies in the Himalayas to the beach weddings all around the coast of Goa. It’s not that the tourists and foreigners are only fascinated by the exotic locations and urban places for destination weddings in India, but also the locals. India is a blend of breathtaking destinations that adorn the special occasion of human’s life with enamor and grandeur. So, whether you like snowy mountains, beautiful architecture, cooling backwaters, sandy beaches, historical cities, rich culture, fascinating traditions or rooted populace, India has all of these to make your wedding a cherished event.

Top 5 venues for a destination wedding in India.

1. Udaipur-“A Symbol of Royal Pre-eminence”

 Udaipur, the most loving and stunning place in Rajasthan is simply awesome for a traditional Indian wedding and so stands as one of the renowned Indian wedding destinations.The beautiful city has regal palace buildings that are designed in contemporary style. 

2.Kerala- “Tie the knot Amidst Serenity”

Kerala, being one of the best destinations for wedding, is commonly known as ‘God’s Own Country’. It offers a perfect beach point where you can have a romantic wedding. 

3.Andaman and Nicobar Islands- “Spectacularly Lovely and Cloistered”

 Andaman & Nicobar Islands would be the perfect destination where you can plan for your wedding. The soothing and pleasing climate of these islands is excellent for your romantic getaway. The coconut palms along the seashore of these islands add zing to your wedding voyage. 

4.Shimla-“A Perfect Ambience To Explore Your Married Life”

Shimla is considered to be one of the popular wedding destinations in India. Peaceful environment, pleasant climate, snowy hills, breathtaking scenery and natural beauty will simply make your wedding day memorable forever. Shimla tempts one who extremely loves to enjoy amidst mountains and fantasize of having a romantic wedding in the Himalayas. There are many resorts in Shimla that arrange grand wedding ceremonies.

5.Agra-“The Paradise of Lovers”

One of the oldest historical cities ‘Agra’ is a very beautiful place that needs no introduction at all. It’s a symbol of love and no other places like Agra could be more appropriate as it recalls the passionate love between the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. What could be more exciting and romantic than giving pledges with the symbol of love in the backdrop! For an opulent and royal wedding ceremony, this city of love is perfect for you

Mesmerizing facts of northeast India

India’s North East can be well described as another paradise on earth. North East India is famous for its biodiversity as well as for its unique culture. The Northeast is among the 34 biodiversity hot spots of the world. Its scenic beauty attracts the travelers from around the world. Here are few of the interesting, yet lesser known facts about North East India, which are worth knowing.

1. North East – A mix of Tibetan, South-East Asian and East Indian culture

There are nearly 220 languages spoken in the states of the Northeast. Interestingly, both language and culture of Northeast are a mix of Tibetan, South-East Asian and East Indian culture.

2.World’s largest and smallest river islands, both are in North East

 The world’s largest river island, the Majuli and the world’s smallest river island Umananda, both are in the Northeast. 

3. Hilly terrains

  

 Almost 70% North East India’s terrains is covered by hills, which makes it one of the beautiful destinations for the tourists.

4.Seven prominent national parks of India are located in North East

A total of seven prominent national parks of India are located in North East, including the famous world heritage sites Kaziranga and Manas.

5.Musically driven region of India

Northeast India is considered as one of the most musically driven regions in the country. Shillong in Meghalaya is considered as the rock capital of India. The Hornbill festival of Kohima, Nagaland, is India’s most well-known music and dance festival.

6.Wettest place on earth is in North East

Mawsynram in Meghalaya receives an annual average rainfall of 11,873 mm, for which it holds the Guinness World Record of being the wettest place on Earth.

7.Home to famous one-horned rhino

The famous one-horned rhino is exclusively found in the Northeastern part of India.

8.Muga – The golden silk of Assam which is not produced anywhere else in the world

Sualkuchi in Assam is one of the world largest weaving villages where the entire population is engaged in weaving silk fabrics. Muga, the golden silk of Assam which is not produced anywhere else in the world.

9.One of the cleanest regions in India

North East is considered as the most cleanest region in India. Mawlynnong in Meghalaya is the cleanest village in entire Asia.

10.Home to 70% of country’s orchid

Northeast India is a hub where nearly 70 per cent of the country’s orchids are found. A large number of them are ornamental and endangered.

11.Entire North East is dowry free

There is no dowry culture in the entire Northeast.

Places for Solo women to vist in india

It's a time ladies to go out and explore our India. Be Independent, let go the insecurity , open your arms and feel free to travel. Fact as it remains, most people cut a figure of India as an unsafe place for female travellers, which is partially true, BUT it can by no means slice off the other fact away that India is one exceptionally beautiful destination. AND further adding to the glory, apparently a lot of single female travellers have been coming forward and sharing their Indian travel stories, tips and tricks for a safe and hassle free journey around the country.So, if you are ready to LET GO, we have a list of some great destinations in India, which are notable for their beauty and are undoubtedly safe:

 Nainital, Uttarakhand:

The charming city of Nainital in Uttarakhand attracts tourists with its sublime natural beauty and it being a quiet little haunt for piece of peace. Like other hill stations, Nainital is a popular tourist spot in India. Inhabited by the Kumaoni people, who are known for their warm smiles and helping nature makes this destination a safe place for single female traveller. Lake City, as it is popularly called, is a valley with a deep lake in the centre. It is in fact an excellent getaway for spending some time alone in sheer tranquility in the lap of Mother Nature.
Attractions: Snow View, Tiffin Top, China Peak, Bhimtal, Naukuchiyatal, Saattal, Lover’s Point, Himalaya Darshan, Ropeway (Cable Car), Nanda Devi Temple, Jama Masjid, Pangot, Corbett National Park, Cave Garden, Boat House Club
Things to Do:

• Trek to China Peak
• Shop at Tibetan Market
• Take a Boat Ride at Naini Lake
• Go for Horse Riding
• Take a Cable Car Ride to Snow View
• Eat at Sonam’s
• Sip on the Coffee by Lake Side
• Watch a game in Flatts
• Visit Balram Heritage Hotel
• 
  

Mysore, Karnataka:

  

Apparently, South India has been reckoned as a safer region for women travellers in India. If it is an overstatement…we don’t know. WHAT WE KNOW is that Mysore is one of the safest places for women travellers in India. The amicable gentry makes it easier for females to loiter around safely even after dusk (However, I would still insist on getting back to the hotel room before it gets dark). The City of Palaces as it is popularly called, Mysore takes one back to the times of the Chalukayas, Cholas and Hoysalas. In other words, the city is a delight for those who have this special thing for architecture. Mysore is also a hub of sandalwood, premium silk and incense, which means that you are going to have a gala time shopping here! Yoga and Ayurveda centres and the special flower market called Devraj Market adds to the grace of Mysore.
Attractions: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Government House, Rangacharlu, Jubilee Clock, Sri Chamundeswari Temple, Rail Museum, Indira Gandhi, Rashtriya Manav Sanghralaya, Mysore Zoo, Devraj Market, Karanji Lake and St. Philomena’s Cathedral
Things to Do:

• Visit Devraj Market
• Take Yoga Sessions
• Enjoy the Ayurvedic Spa
• Shop for Silk, Sandalwood and Incense

Hampi, Karnataka:

 

Hampi will simply change your mind set about India, as this small village destination has so much to impart to its urban counterparts! Hospitable, friendly and culturally wealthy people are what you are likely to encounter here and BELIEVE YOU ME when I say that Hampi will change all your perspectives about travelling solo in India. Once you are here, you will realize that the forlorn ruins of the Vijayanagara Kingdom are actually not a gloomy sight. Resonating majesty and the creative bend of mind, the relics of Hampi will incite an urge in you to go back to the history chapters that you once missed out on reading while you were in school. Situated near Hospet in Karnataka, Hampi is yet another place that has been recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are a backpacker type of person, you are surely going to love this place as it offers cheap accommodation, gives you the chance to meet with people from different countries and apparently makes you feel free without the fear of safety.

Attractions: Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Zenana Enclosure, Sule Bazaar and Achyutaraya Temple, Nandi Statue, Elephant Stables, Hemakuta Hill, Underground Shiva Temple, Queen’s Bath and Royal Centre
Things to Do:

• Eat at Mango Tree
• Have Tea at New Shanthi
• Try Rock Climbing
• Visit Hampi Bazaar
• Watch sunset from Matanga Hill
• Take a Ferry Ride in River Tungabhadra

 Pondicherry

If you want to spend some time by the seas here in India, Puducherry would be the perfect location for you. This place is vast, serene and has been designed by a French architect which makes it look like a modern Indian city. Puducherry is great for those who love to shop and try out delicious cuisine. It is filled with amiable people and is ideal for female solo travelers in India.