Weekend getaways from Mumbai

India’s commercial capital Mumbai is a very fast city and here people always remain in hurry. Of course, Mumbai is not having much options for providing some peaceful retreat to residents or visitors, but there are a number of place around Mumbai where one spend some good time. Close to Mumbai there are a number of places which offers excellent holidaying options. Some of the popular weekend getaways from Mumbai include :

Karjat (88 kms, Driving time +2 hours ) : Just 88 kms away from Mumbai, Karjat makes a perfect getaway. Set on the banks of the Ulhas river, Karjat is a beautiful place with the gushing river, verdant field and green-topped hills all around. Karjat is also famous for adventure sports, you can hop, skip and jump here.

Matheran (100 kms, Driving time +3 hours ) : A quiet and un-spoilt hill station, Matheran is located very close to Mumbai. You should remember that vehicles are not allowed in the hill station and you have to either walk or ride a horse or take a buggy ride to reach there.

Khandala-Lonavala (104 kms, Driving time +3 hours ) : The twin hill stations of Khandala and Lonavala are a excellent choice as weekend getaways from Mumbai. Bestowed with picturesque vistas and romantic aura, the twin hill resorts make a favoured destination for honeymooners and common travellers. Lonavala is set at a height of 625 m above sea level and Khandala is a little lower. You will really like the journey to Lonavala and Khandala as you have to reach by winding roads around the Western Ghats.

Alibag (108 kms, Driving time +3 hours ) : One of the most popular getaways of Mumbai, Alibag attracts large number of people. Those who are looking for some peace, Alibag is the perfect place. With its lush tropical beauty, palm fringed beaches, lush mango orchards, chikoo-wadis and paddy fields Alibag offers a pleasantly retreat. During the monsoons, Alibag becomes more beautiful it offers a romantic setting for honeymooners and common travellers as well.

Kamshet (110 kms, Driving time +3 hours ) : Kamshet is a picturesque destination and located very close to Mumbai. Nestled amidst fields and villages, with a beautiful lake in the vicinity, Kamshet offers a perfect getaway for tourists visiting Mumbai.Kamshet is also considered as one of the best places in India to undertake the adventure sport of para gliding in India. So during your Mumbai trip go for a holiday or honeymoon with a difference at Kamshet.

Malshej Ghat (150 kms, Driving time +3 hours ) : For those who want to experience nature at its best and looking for a memorable holiday, Malshej Ghat is a perfect place. Malshej Ghat has shimmering waterfalls, splendid green hillsides and amazing rock formations. Every year between July and September, the flamingoes come to Malshej Ghat all the way from Europe and add to the scenic vistas of the place.

Murud-Janjira (165 kms, Driving time +5 hours ) : A peaceful fishing village with a beautiful seashore, Murud-Janjira make a perfect getaway from Mumbai. In fact, Murud-Janjira is a holiday and honeymoon destination with a difference and it will surely mesmerize you. See the wooden cottages and relax at lovely beach edged with swaying betel palms, coconut fronds and groves of casuarinas. Also visit the temple of Dattatreya which provides commanding view of the entire bay.

Bhandardara (185 kms, Driving time +4 hours ) : If you are looking for an un-spoiled place, where you can connect directly to the nature, then Bhandardara may be a place for you. The pristine Arthur lake and the lush-green forests of the Sahyadrai hills add more to the beauty of Bhandardara. You will also get mesmerized by seeing the 150 m high Wilson dam which is not just an engineering marvel but is also the lifeblood for the paddy fields nearby. The ancient Agastya Rishi Ashram set on the banks of the Pravara River is another attraction of Bhandardara. It is said that the ashram is mentioned in the Hindu epic Ramayana as the spot where Ram met Agastya Rishi.


Shirdi (250 kms, Driving time +6 hours ) : A major pilgrimage centre, Shirdi is located close to Nasik and offers an aura of spiritual sanctity. Shirdi was the home of the saint Sai Baba who lived here for 80 years. People believe that Sai Baba himself calls his devotees to Shirdi and that his blessings can heal even the deepest wound.

Mahabaleshwar (290 kms, Driving time +6 hours ) : Mahabaleshwar is a beautiful hill station popular with couples on their honeymoon as well as families with kids in tow. Set at an altitude of 4,500 ft in the Sahyadri Mountains, Mahabaleshwar offers spectacular view of the lush valleys of the Deccan and the Konkan coast.

Panchgani (268 kms, Driving time +6 hours ) : Set amidst the five hills, Panchgani is a favourite getaway for those weary of Mumbai’s fast life. Blessed with the pristine natural beauty, Panchgani is a favourite destination for honeymooners and vacationers.

Weekend Getaways from Delhi

It is true that Delhi itself offers a number of options where you can enjoy your weekend to fullest. Delhi is home to adventure and water sports parks, lakes where you can enjoy boating and several other leisure options. However, the crowds and hustle and bustle of city, do not give you sufficient time to relax. For those who are looking for a perfect weekend, Delhi has a number of interesting getaways.

Some of the famous getaways from Delhi are :

Surajkund (11 kms) : Surajkund is situated at a distance of 11 km from Qutab Minar on the Mehrauli-Badarpur road. Here you will see a perennial lake flanked by rock-cut steps. Another attraction of the place is the Sun temple built by Surajpal, a Tomar chieftain during AD 1000, the remains of which can still be seen. Eeryear the Surajkund Crafts Mela is organized here which provides a glimpse of the centuries-old crafts traditions of India.

Badhkal Lake (30 kms) : A popular picnic spot, Badhkal Lake lies just 30 kms away from Delhi in the Faridabad district of Haryana. Badhkal Lake is a natural pool surrounded by vast lawns and lush greenery. The lake also offers boating facilities to tourists.

Sultanpur (46 kms) : Sultanpur is a small bird sanctuary, located 46 kms from Delhi in Haryana state. Around the bird sanctuary there is a shallow lake with reeds and other waterside plants. During the winter months of November-December the bird sanctuary becomes a hub of activity. Every year northern migratory birds arrive in Sultanpur bird sanctuary. The lake inside the sanctuary is also home to the only indigenous Indian crane - Sarus.

Pataudi Palace (60 kms) : A great weekend destination, Pataudi Palace is situated at a distance of 60 km from Delhi. Pataudi Palace is the home of the former Indian cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and actress Sharmila Tagore. Pataudi Palace is a perfect destination to spend good time with family and friends or celebrating a special event together. Take a drive from Delhi to reach Pataudi Palace and create some wonderful memories.

Tilyar Lake (70 kms) : A favourite getaway for tourists visiting to Delhi, Tilyar Lake lies 70 kms away from Delhi in Rohtak district of Harayana. Tilyar Lake offers facilities of accommodation, restaurants and bar. You can enjoy boating in Tilyar Lake. The lake also has children's park and a mini zoo.

Neemrana (122 kms) : Neemrana lies 122 kms away from Delhi, just atop a rocky outcrop above a quiet village. Neemrana is the site of a massive fort built by Prithiviraj Chauhan III in 1464. Few years back the Neemrana Fort has been converted into a heritage resort.



Mud Fort (80 kms) : For those who are looking for some peaceful moment, Mud Fort of Kuchesar is perfect destination. Set 80 kms away from Delhi, the Mud Fort was constructed in the mid-18th century by the Jat rulers. The Mud fort was built with seven turrets so as to withstand the attacks of enemies. Over the centuries the fort has bravely withstood the attacks of the Marathas, Sikhs, Rohillas, and Rajputs, as well as the French and the East India Company.

Kesroli (150 kms) : Take a three-hour drive from Delhi to reach Kesroli in Rajasthan. Kesroli is the site of the 16 th century seven-turreted fort. Perhaps built by the Yaduvanshi Rajputs, the ruined fort provides breathtaking views of the surroundings.

Bharatpur (176 kms) : Located at a distance of about 176 kms from Delhi, Bharatpur is famous for its birds sanctuary. A UNESCO WOrld Heritage Site, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park. One of India's premier wildlife sanctuaries, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a beautiful tree-shaded wonderland of water-bodies and marshes. Here you can see a variety of avian species including migratory birds as well.

Haridwar (200 kms) : One of the most important religious centres for the Hindus, Haridwar is situated at a distance of 200 kms from Delhi. Every year millions of devotees visit Haridwar to take bath in Holy Ganges to cleanse themselves of sins. Many people also reach the town to perform the last of the post funeral rites. Haridwar is dotted with innumerable ashrams and temples. Here you can see sadhus in saffron and white performing various rites or meditating by the river. Besides, the brightly lit temples, the river shimmering with thousand of diyas at night and the air filled with sound of temple bells and hymns make the town more lively. The Maha Kumbh will take place at Haridwar in 2010.

Agra (201 kms) : Situated at a distance of 201 kms from Delhi, Agra was the capital of mighty Mughals during 16th and 17th centuries. During their rule the Mughals constructed a number of interesting structures in Agra that include forts, palaces and tombs. Even today the forts and monuments of Agra draw tourists from all over the world. Mughal Emperor Akbar built the Agra Fort which still stands and tells the story of the bygone era through its grand palaces, mosques, entrances etc.

Just one km ahead of Agra Fort, is Taj Mahal which has been declared one of the seven wonders recently. Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra – 10 kms) and deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri (35 kms) are other interesting places related to Mughals. Agra also offers excellent opportunities for shopping. You may buy leather items, handicrafts marble items in Agra markets. For a weekend trip to Agra you may hire a taxi or cab. You may also reach Agra by bus or train.

Other Famous Weekend Getaways from Delhi :
Corbett National Park (Uttaranchal), Lansdowne (Uttaranchal), Mussoorie (Uttaranchal), Naukuchiatal (Uttaranchal), Rajaji National Park (Uttaranchal), Rishikesh (Uttaranchal), Sariska Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan), Ajmer (Rajasthan), Bikaner (Rajasthan), Nainital (Uttaranchal),Ranikhet (Uttaranchal) Ranthambhore (Rajasthan), Samode (Rajasthan) and Shimla (Himachal Pradesh).

Bed and Breakfast scheme by Ministry of Tourism India

India is a God gifted land boasts of a thousands of tourists attractions that draw tourists from all over the world. Today India is one of the world’s most visited tourist destination that have brought a unprecented boom in country’s tourism industry. Since the beginning of this decade the Indian tourism industry is rapidly growing and it always mover towards a new high. A number of important factors were behind such growth in tourism industry, but the Indian government has also contributed a lot to promote tourism globally. At the same time the hotels, resorts, lodges and other accomodation options deserves some plaudits as the world class services offered by them make tourists trip to India pleasant and memorable.

For attracting the tourists from world over and making their travel hassle-free the Indian government introduce new-new attractive plans. Bed and Breakfast scheme is a new scheme launched by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. With the moto of providing comfortable accommodation facilties and standardized world clas services to the global tourists, and to supplement the availability of accommodation in the Metros and tourist destinations, Ministry of Tourism will classify fully operational rooms of Home Stay Facilities as "Incredible India Bed and Breakfast (B&B) Establishments". Basic idea behind the ‘Bed and Breakfast scheme’ is to provide clean and affordabl accommodation place for foreigners and demestic tourists as well. Besides, the foreign tourists will also get an excellent opportunity to stay with an Indian family to experience Indian customs and traditions and relish authentic Indian
cuisine.

According to present plan the Bed and Breakfast facilities will be categorized into two categories namely (a) Siver (b) Gold). Bed and Breakfast establishments will have to apply for approval from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The Regional Classification Committee, as specified in the guidelines, will inspect and assess such establishments based on facilities and services offered. For approval of Bed and Breakfast establishments the details of the standards, facilities, services and the documents required will be as per these guidelines.

Once approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the Bed & Breakfast Establishments will be duly publicized. Further a directory of all such approved Bed & Breakfast establishments will also be prepared, so as to enable domestic as well as foreign tourists to live in a homely environment and to take advantage of the scheme. Efforts will also be made to organize short term training in hospitality trade to those who would opt for such training.

Where to apply
Bed & Breakfast Establishments can send their applications along with the requisite fees to:-
1. Regional Director (North), Indiatourism,

88 Janpath, New Delhi
-110001.Tel: 011-23320005/8 (for States of Jammu &
Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttranchal, NCT
of Delhi, UT of Chandigarh and Uttar Pradesh except Agra and
Varanasi).

2. Regional Director (West), Indiatourism,

123 M. Karve Road,
Mumbai -400020.Tel: 022-22033144 (for States of Gujarat,
Chattisgarh, UT of Daman & Diu, Dadra Nagar Haveli and
Maharashtra except Aurangabad).

3 Regional Director (South), Indiatourism,

154 Anna Sallai,
Chennai -600002. Tel: 044- 28460193 (for States of Tamil
Nadu and UT of Lakshwadweep).

4 Regional Director (East), Indiatourism,

"Embassy", 4
Shakespeare Sarani, Kolkata -700071. Tel: 033 -22825813
(for States of West Bengal and Jharkhand).

5 Regional Director (North- East), Indiatourism,

Amravati Path,
Christian Basti, G.S. Road, Guwahati -781007. Tel: 0361-
2341603 (for States of Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Nagaland,
and Sikkim).

6. Director, Indiatourism,

KFC Building, 48 Church Street,
Bangalore -560001, Karnataka. Tel: 080-25585417 (for the
State of Karnataka).

7. Director, Indiatourism,

State Hotel, Khasa Kothi, Jaipur-
302001. Tel: 0141- 2372200 (for the State of Rajasthan).

8. Director, Indiatourism,

Sudama Palace, Kankar Bagh Road,
Patna-800020, Bihar. Tel: 0612-2345776 (for the State of
Bihar).

9. Manager, Indiatourism,

191, The Mall, Agra- 282001, Uttar
Pradesh. Tel: 0562-2226378 (for the city of Agra).

10. Manager, Indiatourism,

15-B, The Mall, Varanasi –
221001, Uttar Pradesh. Tel: 0542-2501784 (for the city of
Varanasi).

11. Manager, Indiatourism,

B/21B.J.B. Nagar,
Bhubaneshwar -751014, Orissa. Tel: 0674-2432203 (for the
State of Orissa).

12. Manager, Indiatourism,

Near Western Group of Temples,
Khajuraho -471606, Madhya Pradesh. Tel: 07686-
242347 (for the State of Madhya Pradesh).

13. Manager, Indiatourism,

VIP Road, 189, IInd Floor, Port
Blair-744103, Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Tel: 03192-
236348 (for the UT of Andaman & Nicobar Islands).

14. Manager, Indiatourism,

3-60-140, IInd floor, Netaji Bhawan,
Liberty Road, Himayat Nagar, Hyderabad -500029, Andhra
Pradesh. Tel: 040-23261360 (for the State of Andhra
Pradesh).

15. Manager, Indiatourism,

Willingdon Island, Kochi -682009,
Kerala. Tel: 0484-2668352 (for the State of Kerala).
16. Manager, Indiatourism, Communidade Building, Church
Square, Panaji -403001, Goa. Tel: 0832-2223412 (for the
State of Goa).

17. Manager, Indiatourism,

‘Krishna Vilas’, Station
Road, Aurangabad -431005, Maharashtra. Tel: 0240-
2364999 (for the city of Aurangabad).

18. Manager, Indiatourism,

U Tirot Singh Syiem Road, Police
Bazaar, Shillong -793001, Meghalaya. Tel: 0364-225632
(for the State of Meghalaya).

19. Manager, Indiatourism,

Sector ‘C’, Barapani Police Point,
Naharlagun -791110, Arunachal Pradesh. Tel: 0360-2244328
(for the State of Arunachal Pradesh).

20. Manager, Indiatourism,

Old Lambu Lane, Jail Road, Imphal -
795001, Manipur. Tel: 03852-221131 (for the State
of Manipur).

For guidelines and other info visit : http://incredibleindia.org/pdf/Incredible_India_Bed_Breakfast_Scheme.pdf

Searching for a right travel agent in India

Before travelling to a new destination you should have a brief idea about the city and its nearby areas. But the fact is that, by reading about the destination in books, magazines or Internet you would not be able to get the complete information. Hence, for your safe and pleasant journey it is advised to consult a travel agent and tour operator of that destination. But getting the right travel agent is an important thing and you should always look for them, before booking a tour. Usually the travel agent and tour operators make tall claims, but in reality their offer very poor service and spoil your whole trip.


Very recently me and my family members visited Rajasthan to see the various marvelous forts, monuments and temples. As expected the attractions of the Rajasthan were stunning and we enjoyed the camel safari across the Thar Desert in Jaisalmer. However our experience during Rajasthan trip was spoilt due to the poor quality of services offered by our travel agent. All the staff including the driver was rude. Our driver was very terrible and often going missing for almost an hour. The hotels arranged for us were lacking basic hygiene causing us to have stomach upsets and indigestion problems. In short, Rajasthan was full of adventure and innumerable interesting tourists spots, but our travel agent made our vacation an unpleasant affair.

Hence, for a good and enjoyable trip to India, I always suggest you people to look for right travel agent. Of course, for first timers getting the authentic tour operator and travel agent in not an easy job. For your assistance I am giving a list of some of India’s authentic tour operator and travel agents.

A La -carte tours Pvt.Ltd - http://www.allindia-tours.com/
Anglo Indiago Travels Ltd. - http://www.angloindiago.com/
Beckon Tours Private Limited - http://www.beckontours.com/
Beyond Boundaries - http://www.beyondboundariesindia.com/
Capital City Travel and Tours - http://www.tourism-india.com/
Cox & Kings - http://www.coxandkings.com/
Caretaker Tours and Travels - http://www.caretakertours.com/
Dolphin Travels - http://dolphinindia.com/
Erco Travels - http://www.ercotravels.com/
Flo Travels - http://www.flotravels.com/
Highland Travels - http://www.highlandtravels-tours-india.com/
Indian Travel Consultant - http://www.indiantravelconsultant.com/
Kapil Tours and Travel - http://www.indiantravelinfo.com/
Max Holidays - http://www.allindiatravelinfo.com/
Minar Travels - http://www.minartravels.net/
Namaste Tours - http://www.namastetoursindia.com/
Pooja Tours and Travel - http://www.visitsouthindia.com/
Pearls Tours and Travels - http://www.pearlsindiatour.com/
Pk Tours and Travels - http://www.discoverindiatravel.com/
Royal Tours and Travels - http://www.adventuretraveltime.com/
Sita World Travels - http://www.sitatours.com/
Siddhartha Tour - http://www.siddharthatours.com/
SP Holidays Pvt. Limited - http://www.tours-packages-india.com/
Southern Travels Pvt. Ltd - http://www.southerntravelsindia.com/
SLS Tour Company - http://www.slstour.com/
Travel House - http://www.travelhouseindia.com/
Vasco Travel - http://www.vascotravel.net/
Zutsi Travel World Service - http://www.india-tours-operator.com/

Travel Tips for India

India is one of world’s most visited tourist destination and draws tourists from all corner of globe. World’s one of the biggest country, India offers plethora of options for tourist. You may chose your vacation according to your choice that is available in various themes like adventure, culture, history, romance, beach etc. For enjoying this vacation options you have to visit different parts of this vast country. Hence, for safe and hassle free journey across India you need to be aware about some basic facts. For your convenience and memorable vacation I am providing some handy travel tips here.


What to Buy
Shopping in India is delightful experience. You will find everything from A to Z in markets of India. Some of the shopping specialties of India include the art and crafts items, handloom, leather items, shoes, sweets, cotton clothes etc. Apart from these, do not forget to check out locally made items. Shop as much as possible during your trip to any destination of India. Always remember that good bargain if offered in most of the street side shops and small markets.


Where to Shop
India is a shopper’s paradise, all the cities and small towns have defined shopping areas. From the big shopping malls to small street shops you will find everything in India. Besides permanent shopping centres, you will also find weekly market places in India. So rush to nearest shopping centre to buy items of your choice.


What to Wear
Nudity is not allowed in India and married women prefer complete veil. Respect the Indian culture and women are suggested to maintain the modesty. India is a big country and the weather differs in different regions. Enquire about the weather in advance and carry sufficient clothes according the climatic conditions. During winter months of November to February, the weather remains cold so carry woolen clothes, jackets and blankets. During summers and rainy season light weight cotton is best. For foot wear – shoes and comfortable sandals are suitable. Do not move bare foot because you may get infected by disease.


Driving License
You need an International Driving License that can be obtained through the assistance of automobile association. Even if you are not planning to drive on your in India, carry your driving license with photo for identification.

Documents to Carry
Carry the original as well as xerox copy of your passport, travel visas, airline tickets and essential travel documents. Also prepare a list of any charge or credit cards you are carrying during your trip to India.

Purchase Travel Insurance Plans
You are advised to purchase special Travel insurance and medical evaluation plan programmes.

Food and Drinking Water
Always take food from good hotels or restaurant. Wash fruits before eating them. Avoid foods which have been laid out in the open, avoid sweets and candies from local markets. Try to avoid drinking water from an unknown source it may be contaminated. Better you ask for packaged drinking water like Bisleri, Aqua Fina, Kinley, Rail Neer, Kingfisher etc. always check the seal. For more precaution carry water purifying tablets.

Safety
Take utmost care of your belongings, as there are chances of stealing. Use the lock boxes or bags to keep your belongings and travel documents safe. Always take care of your wallet, purse, bags, suitcases and other things. Never leave your luggage, briefcase or other belongings unattended.

Travelling
Indian Railways offer several superfast and mail trains for all the important places of India. Avoid travelling in the Second Class, because the bogies remain crowded. AC or Sleeper bogies are good to travel. Buses including Deluxe, Volvo, Coach etc. also ply all over India. Cars, Taxis and Auto Rickshaws are modes of local transport and they are available from all hotels, railway stations and bus stands. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey. It is advised to use only authorized and properly identified taxis, auto rickshaws and buses. In case of complaints against taxi or auto-rickshaw driver for overcharging or cheating, note down the vehicle number and lodge a report with Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic). You can get the important Contact Phone Numbers in Telephone Directory.

Voltage
In India the standard voltage used in 220 volts. If your appliances do not match this standard, you can buy a converter from any of the electric shops. Current Spikes are very common in India so use a spike buster.

Chemists / Pharmacies
Chemists are available at almost every place (city, town, village etc.) where you can buy medicines. In case you fell ill and need to see a doctor, ask for help from your hotel or your tour operator. In India the cost of visiting a doctor is fairly low in comparison to western countries. Most importantly, in some areas of India Malaria is still prevalent. So, prior to your departure, get a prescription from your doctor for some anti malarial tablets.

Essential Things You Should Carry

Do remember to carry some insect repellent, mosquito coils or even an electronic repellent, because mosquitos can be fierce in India. Carry sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to avoid the sun burn and sun stork.

Respect Religious Shrines
Majority of the Indian people are religious and they have great respect for religious shrines and places of worship. Always respect the religious shrines and places of worship during your visit to India. You need a decent dress code for visiting some religious places. Always take care and do not try to violate any taboos in a mosque or a temple.

Money Exchange

Change currency only from authorized moneychangers in India. Do remember to keep the money exchange receipts after every transaction. You will need those receipts for re-exchange on departure.Offering TipTipping is a matter of your personal discretion. Usually bills include a service charge, it is customary to tip in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists.

Photography Rules
In India there are some rules regarding photography. Always look for notification before clicking the photos. Normally photography is prohibited in places of military importance, railway stations, bridges, airports etc.

What to do while in trouble
If you ever land in any kind of trouble, then immediately contact your Embassy and nearest police station. Always talk with the Senior Inspector in Charge of any police station, as he is the top officer.

Credit Cards Accepted in India
American Express, Master Charge, Visa and Diners Club credit cards are generally accepted by large establishments of India including hotels, shops, and airlines.



For Any Help Contact : Ministry of Tourism Help Desk.