For a perfect backwater tour in Kerala, enjoy the scenic sites of lush paddy fields and coconut trees swaying, exotic village life right by your side while you sail through a network of canals that mix into the large patch of water in the Vembanad Lake.This region comes alive with various cultural performances and traditional competitions like Snake Boat racing.
Meghalaya's double-decker and single-decker root bridges are unique in the world and are a sight to behold. The bridges are tangles of massive thick roots, which have been intermingled to form a bridge that can hold several people at a time.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang (nunnery). Perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, gleams the magnificent structures of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang(Temple). The temple houses a 14-foot main bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrigzig chagtong chentong).
The sanctuary is one of the oldest parts of the Mount Abu mountain ranges and is the origin of numerous sightseeing points with exquisite views. It was given the status of a wildlife sanctuary in 1960 to preserve flora and fauna of the entire region and is, therefore, an important eco-tourism spot.
An exciting boat safari through the mingling waters of the Dhansari and Brahmaputra River with plenty of fresh water dolphin sightings. Get ready to spot swimming elephants, wild buffaloes, tigers, deer, occasionally rhinos, water monitor lizards, beavers, monkeys, turtles, eagles, vultures, storks, kingfishers and more.
Pangong Lake is located through Changla pass at 5486 Mtr. It is the highest land locked lake situated at 14,000 feet (4,350 m ). A long narrow basin of inland drainage, hardly six to seven kilometer at its widest point and over 130 km long, it is bisected by the international border between India and China.
The 1100-year-old stepwell may not be a large stepwell, but it is extraordinarily charming. Instead of a set of continuous steps designed to provide access to water to as many people as possible, this stepwell favors fewer steps, but strategically placed to create the biggest impact on onlookers.
Explore one of the most striking Kerala backwaters, which is in Alleppey. A locale both for tourists and travelers. The best way to go around and explore is either a modest houseboat or a budget-friendly local ferry. Wave to the local children and the passing coconut trees.
Elephant Falls was the British name of what the local Khasi people once referred to as Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew (or "Three Steps Waterfalls") since the falls actually consisted of three sections in succession.
The Haa Valley is one of the best lesser known valleys in Bhutan to visit, having only opened to tourism in 2002. It is hidden above Paro and the development of hotels has been banned for now in an effort to retain its rustic old world charms.
Sprawled in an area of 578 km², Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary encircles the massive fort of Kumbhalgarh. This wildlife park has imbibed its name from the same fort. Broadening across the Aravalli Range, Kumbhalgarh sanctuary covers parts of Rajsamand, Udaipur and Pali districts. The sanctuary makes home to many endangered species of wild-life.
Come face to face with a tradition fishermen tribe and their iconic bamboo homes built on stilts. The Mishing tribal community is a tribe of fishermen with some agriculture, animal husbandry to supplement their income. The women weave cotton fabric and brew the local apong beer.
MV Mahabaahu offers an expedition form of cruising on the mighty Brahmaputra that refuses to be tamed. Guwahati area experiences a surge of 35 ft in height of Brahmaputra waters during monsoons.
MV Mahabaahu offers an expedition form of cruising on the mighty Brahmaputra that refuses to be tamed. Guwahati area experiences a surge of 35 ft in height of Brahmaputra waters during monsoons.
Birdwatchers come to Kabini forest reserve in droves, some armed with powerful cameras, as they try to identify and record the various bird species that call this place home. Over 350 species of birds have been identified around this pristine riverine landscape. Some of the birds that can be viewed around the lake include grey-headed fish eagles and ospreys.
Residing in a houseboat (Backwater cruise) and sailing through the quaint and charming backwaters is one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. The jaw-dropping backdrop, lush green plantations along the banks, and gorgeous Vembanad Lake (formed by convergence of 10 Malabar Rivers) pulls plenty of tourists to rent a houseboat and voyage in it.
The main range of Nagarhole National Park is just a km away from Kabini reserve. Kabini is part of a larger protected wilderness area which includes Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. The Nagarhole River is the lifeline of the region and meets the Kabini River to form an extensive riverine area.
The Dutch had a love for canals, and the city of Negombo displays it with all pride. There are canals that extend all the way north to Puttalam and south to Colombo. Tourists can hire a cycle the ride the paths of the Hamilton Canal thereby enjoying the scenic views of the small villages along the way.
The peaceful glory of Kumarakom is enjoyed best by soothening of senses and relaxation of mind, body, and soul. With a plethora of Ayurvedic massages, Kumarakom is conceivably the idyllic rejuvenation destination.
17 km from Thiruvananthapuram City, is a world famous beach, noted being one of the finest. There are 2 large beaches and highly safe for swimming. A visit to Kovalam is must for Trivandrum.
Nagarkot is one of the best places that offer great mountain views nearby Kathmandu valley. Nagarkot is a resort village, 32 km east of Kathmandu. The elevation of this beautiful place is 2,175m from sea level. The views go from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east. On a clear day, one can see Mt. Everest (8848m), Manaslu (8,463m), Ganesh Himal (7,111m), and Langtang (7,246m).
Nature walking and leisurely strolls along the lakeside while enjoying the mesmerizing backwater landscape is a perfect treat for the mind and soul; and one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. The lush green plantations, blue lake water, picture-perfect rural landscape and chirping of birds intoxicates the mind completely.
Although Safari remains the prime attraction of the jungle, Nature Trails are for those who wish to explore nature closely on foot and for those who find joy in every little wonder of the jungle. Accompanied by a naturalist this is an amazing way to know about flora, butterflies, insects, birds and small mammals that come across your walk.
Nature walks are a fun activity in Kabini reserve where guests are accompanied by experts of the terrain. There are bicycle trails for some fun on two wheels. An interaction with some of the locals in nearby tribal villages adds a cultural flavour to this experience. Evening campfires set the stage for unforgettable memories of an unforgettable trip.
The boat rides on the calm waters of the lake provide a different and unique perspective of the forest. Visitors can marvel at the different avian species that nest around the waterways. Freshwater crocodiles can be seen sliding in and out of the water on the banks, basking in sun.
Ride, pet and play with an elephant! The local park allows tourists to ride on, pet and play with elephants. The animals are really friendly and if tourists jump into the water with them they spray them with water from the trunk. They also recycle elephant excreta to make paper and happen to be the only factory in the world that does this.
Ayurveda is not just a time-honoured medical science in Kerala. It’s a tradition, it’s a lifestyle and it’s a pivotal component that adds to the character of Kerala. The ancient philosophies of Ayurveda have travelled through thousands of years, introducing people to its remedial effect along the way.
Sunset is a time when the sky is painted in vibrant colors, lending an ethereal touch to nature. Backwaters in Kochi have been specially constructed for the leisure of the people. This promenade is the haunt of many people, who sit on the various benches provided and enjoy a beautiful sunset.
So when you are in the tea capital of India, indulge yourselves in the journey through the myriad colors, flavours and aromas of Assam tea. You will also get an insight into how the tea leaf evolves from the plant stage right through how it is manufactured in the factory.
Sri Lanka is one of the highest producers of tea in the world and the tea estate allows a tour inside and tourists can see how tea is made with machines. Furthermore they can also purchase tea at the very same place.
In case you want to go local and do something totally offbeat, which most tourists don’t do then go to Fish market near Chinese Fishing nets.
The fisherman catches the fishes all day in the Arabian sea near Kochi. They return to shore with a fresh catch around evening.
There is no better way to immerse oneself in the wilderness than a wildlife safari. Safaris are conducted twice a day in Kabini, as you enter the forests on designated routes. Early morning safaris are the best time to witness most of the animals of the reserve, who step out for water and food before the temperatures rise. Evening safaris are considered a good time to spot the spots, i.e.
Situated 9.8 kilometers from Athirapally waterfalls, Illithode is every nature lover’s ecstasy. This is the best eco-tourist spot for travellers who love adventure, bird watching, nature walking and photography. This exquisite place is bordered with giant lush green trees artistically interwoven with each other.
Located south of Nakki Lake in Mount Abu, the Toad Rock is a colossal rock piece which looks like a toad about to jump into the waters of the lake. Known as the mascot of Mount Abu. To see the panoramic beauty of the surrounding lake and greenish hilly regions you can climb up the rock and capture the breathtaking scenery.
The safari takes you on a 90 km tour across the Sholayar range through the rainforests of Kerala. The prominent attractions covered are Kauthuka Park, Thumboormuzhy Dam, Butterfly garden, Vazhachal falls, Athirapally falls, hills, valleys, rainforest full of resident wildlife, birds and tea gardens.
One of several working local tea factories open to the public, Lockhart dates from 1879 and sits 10km southeast of Munnar. Guided factory tours explain modern tea processing from picking to export. There's also a small museum, plus gardens and tastings.
The enchanting rain shadow village of Marayoor is home to naturally fragrant sandalwood forests. It is about 40 Km run from Munnar and lies on the eastern side of Western Ghats. It is unexplored, untouched and incredibly pristine. On either way to the Marayoor Sandalwood Forests, you will see numerous waterfalls.
The walk starts from Ajmer Fort to the hilltop, it is a 2-3 hrs walk, trail covers the walk on uneven terrain and little bit of steep slopes, however it is worth it when you reach at hill top and enjoy the breath-taking view from there, on return there is an arrangement refreshments.
Sholayar Dam is located 53.3 kilometers from Athirapally waterfalls. The Sholayar Dam is stretched at a distance of 20 kilometers, making it the second-largest and biggest rock dam in Asia. The gigantic structure with its alluring scenic beauty is counted among the few famous places to visit near Athirapally waterfalls.
Located inside the Eravikulam National Park is the Anamudi Peak. This is the highest peak in South India; standing at a height of over 2700 m. Treks to the peak are allowed with permission from the Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.
The precarious yet thrilling pathways up to the falls are a treat for mountaineers who are looking for a quick adventure. The trek routes are very well maintained and you get to savour a spectacular view of the falls thoughout.
7 Nights / 8 Days river cruise through the Kerala Backwaters
The most comprehensive river cruise experience in South India
Let us unravel the vista...India!
Travelling is not always about reaching your destination, a major chunk of the fun lies in the journey as well. If you happen to be a nature lover, road trips are a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings and soak it all in so that the memories linger for a long time to come.
The soul of our country lies in its interiors. Taking off from that, the Dera Village Retreat near the charming village of Kalakho is a property that provides an immersive and unique experience in the heart of Rajasthan.
Bhutan sounds exotic, mystical and almost otherworldly. Well, it feels that way too.
Most travellers are typically attracted to a destination by three things and Bhutan ticks each of these boxes and how:
The promise of delicious food and innate beauty
Waves come crashing on golden shores, cascading and caressing each grain of sand; a warm embrace between water and land. The sky turns a fiery orange and then a gentle flamingo pink. Sounds dreamy? Life in Andamans surely is.
Kerala has an extensive network of waterways that lace the interior coastline for a stretch of almost 600 km. This gorgeous labyrinthine network of rivers, canals, streams and lagoons formed by the inimitable craftsmanship of nature is known as the Backwaters.
The state of Uttarakhand wears the iconic twin peaks of Nanda Devi like a crown. And indeed this famous image is a fitting highlight for a province that is filled with abundant nature, flora, and fauna. Two of the five traditional divisions of the Himalayan range are found in Uttarakhand – Garhwal and Kumaon.
