Important
UAE Immigration Services will be closed from November 29th to December 04th, both days inclusive as those days are observed as UAE National Holidays.
Vis Renewal Services will not be accessible during these days and hence it is advised that you may complete your Visa renewal before the date to save yourself from fines.
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January is the month to prepare for the year… so here are some notes from my travels.
I made it to Jodhpur and Jaisalmer just before the year ended, and possibly my last travel of 2022.
This quick three-day trip put three things on top to take into the new year.
The following notes are insights into destinations like Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, traditionally promoted as desert and heritage destinations. RARE began with a focus on Destinations and Experiences and we continue to map remote destinations and how experiences can add value to programs even on often repeated routes.
This was early December of 2022 and my first stop was at Mharo Khet, which was a ‘Nutraceutical’ farm owned by the family for over 30 years is today a farm experience, just under an hour from Jodhpur airport and about 40 mins from the city. The idea is to help travelers discover the joy of freshly grown vegetables and fruits, reimagined along popular flavors but treated and plated to appeal to both itinerant travelers as well as this global tribe namely the ‘foodies’. Rajnush, young and articulate in what he has chosen to do at the farm, walks you through the poly-house growing a variety of vegetables and salad green, and the sun-kissed farms of carrots, baby corn, mustard, guava, moringa – his understanding is from knowing his land well and working on it with his team of women who come in from the nearby villages and lend a hand. It can be a short or long experience ( half a day ) as your interest dictates – but to finally end under the guava trees with sand underfoot for a sit-down multi-course meal can be the perfect day on a long or short holiday.
From here a quick stop at Kaner Retreat, Sapna Bhatia brings a unique perspective to a piece of land just off the highway en route to Jaisalmer. Building stories of the land, people and the wildlife of the desert is central to this ten room property which welcomes adults and children to enjoy and know the desert for its culture and its often harsh and unrelenting landscape. But for those who work here, there is much to be fascinated by. The arid landscape breathes a life of its own and Sapna can talk endlessly about it. She is a journalist and has spent her childhood here. Walking with her as she rather shyly shows off the little Gerbil park where meals are spread under the sky - the floor looks like a sandy carpet, as you wonder about the loose mounds in places – curios whiskers and beady eyes pop in and out. Just too cute you think while she proceeds to tell you how delighted the children find this space. There is more around like the lady farmer who is tending to an olive farm and has a brand of extra virgin oil called Olivia, all packaged, branded, and made right there. Each is a little or long story woven into Kaner.
Please note Mharo Khet and Kaner Retreat are our recommendations, But interesting experiences for those who are planning travel and itineraries in the region.
The purpose of this travel was to revisit the awesome new and now-renamed Manvar Kumat – Thar Serenity Camp and Killa Bhawan.
Eleven luxury tents set on one of the high dunes, is serenity on offer on some of the most secluded and picturesque dunes in the region, just under three hours from Jaisalmer. With its latest upgrade, Kumat Manvar Luxury Camp would be the best option for glamping in Rajasthan on the shifting desert sands, surrounded by scrub grassland and wild trees of Khejri, Rohida, Kumat, etc. The tents are beautiful, well insulated, and blend easily into the desert landscape, inside is a large living space cum lounge with an ensuite bath that leads to an outdoor shower. The bed and living are designed to be restful and elegant spaces, they open onto a shaded deck with a day bed and comfortable seating. A stunning bar and lounge - its design that celebrates the desert, its communities and performing arts is where magic happens every night. A small elevated stage sits alongside the infinity pool that flows visually into the desert sands, while the sunny deck is perfect for tall G&Ts and beer breaks. If yoga or Pilates is how you begin your day, it would probably be here as the sun hits you just perfectly to warm you gently into your asanas.
From Manvar it took me exactly three and a half hours to get to Jaisalmer. Lonely Planet many many years ago passed Killa Bhawan as one of the few hotels in the fort that contributed to the fort’s maintenance both in its operations and its voluntary care for the upkeep of the fort, one of the reasons why we are proud to have then on RARE.
To stay in Killa Bhawan in Jaisalmer was a long cherished dream, to wade through the shaded lanes in fort while resisting the temptation to look into the homes and lives of people for whom the fort is home and to finally duck unexpectedly to enter the small, storied hotel of eight rooms. Killa Bhawan has to be properly explored with Bhanu – the omnipresent manager and it comes into perspective and allows you to choose your favorite nook for the stay - from among the many colorful and shaded alcoves, courtyards, and balconies. My choice was this low seating on a Burj with cushions to sit on and bolsters for back support. You can look at Lego-block buildings stacked haphazardly, a sea of humanity sprawled at the feet of the fort, something about your relative exclusivity in the fort always overwhelms you. The nights especially are surreal as you look out from the turrets and terraces…. lights stay on till late, gradually dimming and dying. But it is the morning that unleashes the magic of these old settlements. It’s winter morning and the fog hangs like a collective breath to evaporate at the first hint of sun, soon the rays focus pointedly to illumine one turret after the other of the Jaisalmer fort. Walk through the lanes and watch it come alive, slowly - one shop, one home, one business, one restaurant at a time. Steaming tea shops first and cafés….temples already transmitting prayers, songs reverberating through the lanes. The city’s hygiene workers begin their relentless battle against litter, to retire tired each night defeated by what is a nationwide battle with no end in sight. Yet the lanes throb and charm, that is what has always pulled merchants and travelers, hawkers, musicians, and magicians - who have long forgotten who came seeking whom.
This is the charm of Jaisalmer - and a fort stay like Killa Bhawan is your window to all the magic.
Do write to us for bookings and any site visits you may require. A presentation can be planned online or in your office with me on request.
Our Feature this week....
Tipeshwar National Park
&
Tipai Luxury Resort
Abutting the buffer zone of the Tipeshwar National Park, Tipai Resort is a world away from the beaten path.
Every experience is designed for a true getaway.
Tucked away in a 34-acre sanctuary, Tipai offers guests a selection of private pool residences and forest villas. Designed in tune with the natural landscape, all the spaces are built with local materials using sustainable techniques like rammed earth construction and stone masonry.
At Tipai, you needn’t leave the lap of nature to enjoy that luxury.
Situated in Maharashtra, just a 2.5-hour drive from Nagpur and 5.5 hours from Hyderabad, the sanctuary covers an area of 148.63 sq km. Safaris in Tipeshwar There are 3 gates to enter the park:
❖ Sunna: 6 km and a 15 mins drive
❖ Mathani: 20 Km and a 45 mins drive
❖ Kodori: 20 km and 45 mins drive
Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Tipeshwar National Park is home to a plethora of flora and fauna with more than 180 species of birds, 75 species of butterflies, and many species of mammals including the Bengal tigers, leopard cats, sloth bears, Indian leopards, hyenas, sambar deer, chital, black bucks and wild dogs. The sanctuary in Maharashtra shares a tiger corridor with Kawal Tiger Reserve (KTR) in the former undivided Adilabad district in Telangana. Additionally, there are also corridors between Tipeshwar and Painganga (Yavatmal) & Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) (Chandrapur).Tipeshwar National Park is home to a plethora of flora and fauna with more than 180 species of birds, 75 species of butterflies, and many species of mammals including the Bengal tigers, leopard cats, sloth bears, Indian leopards, hyenas, sambar deer, chital, black bucks and wild dogs. The sanctuary in Maharashtra shares a tiger corridor with Kawal Tiger Reserve (KTR) in the former undivided Adilabad district in Telangana. Additionally, there are also corridors between Tipeshwar and Painganga (Yavatmal) & Tadoba-Andhari Tiger (TATR)
(Chandrapur).
Spotted Owlet
If you’re an adventurous traveler and want to discover China’s G216 Highway, a unique self-driving experience, then read on. This highway stretches from Tibet to Xinjiang and passes through some of the most diverse terrain in China. It crosses over mountains, glaciers, deserts and grasslands! You’ll need to plan your trip carefully if you want it go smoothly.
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about this epic road trip is how much fun it would be! But there are also many other benefits: learning more about Chinese culture; meeting new people; discovering hidden gems along the way; getting exercise while driving through beautiful landscapes…the list goes on!
On the first day of your self-driving adventure along the G216 Highway, you’ll start your journey in Barkam, a city in the western part of the Sichuan province, bordering Tibet. Barkam, also known as Ma’erkang, is the capital of the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. This region is known for its stunning landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and diverse ethnic communities.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast and gearing up for the day, you’ll set off from Barkam towards Sertar, a county in the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking views of the rugged mountains, and deep valleys that make this region so unique. As you drive, you’ll encounter various nomadic tribes and witness their traditional way of life.
Upon reaching Sertar, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the famous Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, one of the largest centers for the study of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. Here, you can observe the daily life of monks and nuns and learn about their spiritual practices. You may even have the chance to participate in a meditation session or attend a lecture on Buddhist philosophy.
After spending some time in Sertar, you’ll continue your journey towards Ganzi, another county in the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The drive to Ganzi offers more stunning sights, such as the Yala Snow Mountain and the vast grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see.
As the sun sets on Day One of your self-driving trip along the G216 Highway, you’ll find a comfortable place to rest and recharge for the exciting days ahead. The memories of the day’s journey, the people you met, and the breathtaking landscapes will stay with you for a lifetime.
On the second day of the self-driving trip, the journey continues along the G216 Highway, offering a picturesque and adventurous experience exploring the diverse landscapes of China.
Starting in Ganzi, a Tibetan cultural hub nestled among the mountains, travelers can marvel at the unique architecture of local monasteries and immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the region. While here, it is highly recommended to visit the Ganzi Monastery, a prominent religious site that showcases the region’s deep-rooted connection to Tibetan Buddhism.
As the journey progresses, the next stop is Baiyu, a quaint town that provides a glimpse into the daily lives of its residents. The town is known for its exquisite thangka paintings, a traditional Tibetan Buddhist art form that often depicts religious themes and motifs. Travelers can take the opportunity to learn about this intricate art and even purchase a painting as a souvenir to remember their journey.
The final destination for day two is Jomda, a location characterized by its alpine scenery and unique culture. Here, travelers can explore the lush forests, encounter native wildlife, and learn about local customs and traditions. In addition, Jomda is home to several prominent monasteries, such as the Palyul Monastery, which provide a serene and spiritual experience for visitors.
Chamdo is a larger town located in the eastern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region. It is known for its historical significance, as it was once the capital of the Chamdo Kingdom. Visitors can explore the Chamdo Old Town, which was built during the Ming Dynasty and is home to many traditional Tibetan houses and temples.
Dengqen is a small town located in the Lhoka Prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Zizhu Temple. Visitors can also explore the scenic countryside, which is home to many traditional Tibetan villages and stunning natural attractions.
After we leave Dengqen, we will continue our journey towards Banbar, which is a small town located about 150 kilometers west of Dengqen. Banbar is situated in a narrow valley surrounded by high mountains, and is known for its scenic beauty and fresh air. We can take a walk around the town and enjoy the local cuisine, which is a mix of Tibetan, Chinese, and Indian flavors.
The blue ice cave can be found in Banbar County, Chamdo, Tibet. Measuring 165 meters in length, 26 meters in width, and 15 meters in height, it’s one of the largest ice caves in the region. The cave is accessible from both ends, allowing passage in either direction.
As we continue our journey on the G216 Highway, we will pass through several other towns and villages, each with its own unique culture and traditions. We will also have the opportunity to admire the stunning natural scenery of the region, including snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and winding rivers.
Next, you will head to the majestic Sepu Kangri mountain range. This range is located in the eastern part of the Tibetan Plateau and is home to some of the highest peaks in the world. The mountain range is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including the rare snow leopard.
Finally, you will visit the town of Biru, which is located in the eastern part of Nagqu. Biru is known for its stunning scenery and is often called the “Switzerland of Tibet.” Here, you can take a walk around the town and enjoy the beautiful architecture and breathtaking views.
Next, we will pass through Nagqu, which is a county-level city in the northern part of Tibet. It is located at an elevation of around 4,500 meters and is the largest city in northern Tibet. Nagqu is known for its beautiful grasslands, which are home to many different animals, including yaks, sheep, and Tibetan antelopes. The city is also home to many hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties.
During the journey through Biru and Nagqu, there will be many opportunities to see the beautiful scenery and experience the unique culture of the region. However, it is important to keep in mind the high altitude and take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness. It is recommended to stay hydrated, eat light meals, and avoid strenuous activities. Additionally, it is important to have a reliable vehicle and be prepared for any unexpected situations that may occur during the journey.
Baingoin is a small town located in the Nagqu Prefecture of Tibet. It’s situated at an altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level and is known for its stunning natural scenery. The town is surrounded by beautiful lakes, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains. One of the most popular attractions in Baingoin is the Changtang Nature Reserve. This reserve is home to many rare and endangered species of animals such as Tibetan antelopes, wild yaks, and black-necked cranes. Visitors can take a tour of the reserve and learn about the unique ecosystem of the Tibetan plateau.
Siling Lake, also known as “Siling Co” in Tibetan, is a beautiful saltwater lake located about 100 kilometers southeast of Baingoin. The lake sits at an altitude of over 4,500 meters and covers an area of around 1,500 square kilometers. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grasslands, and it is home to many species of birds and other wildlife. It is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery and experience the local Tibetan culture.
After visiting Siling Lake, you will continue your journey to Nyima, another small town located in the northern part of Tibet. Nyima is situated at an altitude of over 4,600 meters, and it is known for its unique Tibetan architecture and beautiful natural scenery. The town is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grasslands, making it an ideal place for hiking and camping. Nyima is also home to several hot springs, which are popular among tourists who come to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
In summary, Day Eight of the self-driving trip on China’s G216 Highway from Tibet to Xinjiang will take you through the beautiful towns of Baingoin, Siling Lake, and Nyima. You will have the opportunity to experience the unique Tibetan culture, enjoy the stunning natural scenery, and relax in the hot springs.
Next, we will head towards Tangra Yumco, a stunning alpine lake located in the northern part of Tibet. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular spot for camping, hiking, and fishing. We can take a boat ride on the lake or hike around its shores to enjoy its natural beauty.
Our final stop for the day will be Gertse, a small town located in the northwest of Tibet. Gertse is a popular stop for travelers on the G216 Highway and is known for its unique architecture and culture. We can visit some of the local temples and monasteries to learn about the town’s history and religion.
Nyima is a county in the Nagchu prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. If you are planning a self-driving trip along the G216 highway, Nyima is a great place to stop and explore. The county is home to several scenic spots, including the Dang Reyongcuo, Daguo Snow Mountain. However, it is important to note that Nyima and the surrounding areas are located at very high altitudes, with elevations ranging from 4,500 to 5,000 meters above sea level. This means that visitors may experience altitude sickness or other health issues, and it is important to take precautions such as drinking plenty of water and getting adequate rest.
Gertse is a small town located in the Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, China. It is situated along the G216 highway, which runs from Tibet to Xinjiang. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the nearby Gangdise Mountains.
While Gertse itself may not have many notable attractions, it serves as an important stopover point for travelers making the journey along the G216 highway. The town has a number of restaurants, shops, and hotels where visitors can rest and refuel before continuing their journey.
For self-driving trips along the G216 highway, Gertse is an ideal place to take a break and explore the surrounding natural attractions. The nearby Gangdise Mountains offer breathtaking views and are home to a number of hiking trails for adventurous travelers.
Overall, the journey from Gertse to Niya is a challenging but rewarding experience that offers stunning views of Tibet’s natural beauty and the opportunity to explore the rich history of the Silk Road.
On Day Eleven of the self-driving trip on China’s G216 Highway from Tibet to Xinjiang, the route takes us from Niya to Luntai. Niya is a small oasis town located in the Taklamakan Desert, and it was once a bustling trading hub on the ancient Silk Road. Today, it is a relatively quiet town with a population of around 30,000 people.
As we leave Niya, we continue our journey westward along the G216 Highway, passing through the vast and barren desert landscape. The drive is long and monotonous, but the scenery is stunning, with towering sand dunes and distant mountains providing a dramatic backdrop.
After several hours on the road, we arrive in Luntai, a small city located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is known for its scenic beauty, with the Tarim River flowing through the county and the surrounding mountains providing a picturesque backdrop. Luntai is also famous for its grapes, which are grown in the area and are known for their sweet and juicy flavor. Luntai is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with many ancient ruins and historic sites located in and around the city.
Overall, Day Eleven of the self-driving trip on China’s G216 Highway from Tibet to Xinjiang is a long but rewarding journey that takes us through some of the most stunning and culturally rich landscapes in the region. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Niya and Luntai.
After leaving Luntai, the journey will continue on to Urumqi, which is the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Urumqi is a bustling city with a population of over 3 million people. It is known for its rich history and diverse culture, with influences from both the Chinese and Uygur ethnic groups.
One of the highlights of Urumqi is the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, which is one of the largest bazaars in the world. Here, visitors can find a wide variety of goods, including traditional Uygur handicrafts, textiles, spices, and food. The bazaar is also a great place to experience the local culture, with live music and dance performances taking place throughout the day.
Another must-see attraction in Urumqi is the Xinjiang Regional Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the region. Visitors can see traditional clothing, and weapons, as well as learn about the customs and traditions of the Uygur people.
In conclusion, the self-driving adventure along China’s G216 Highway from Tibet to Xinjiang is truly an unforgettable journey. With its vast, diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled opportunities for exploration, this once-in-a-lifetime experience should be on every road trip enthusiast’s bucket list. As you traverse the rugged terrain, marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, and immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of the local communities, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. So, whether you’re an experienced traveler or a curious novice, pack your bags, buckle up, and embark on a thrilling self-driving expedition through the picturesque landscapes of Tibet and Xinjiang on the G216 Highway – the ultimate road trip through the heart of China.
Taj Vivanta - Srinagar
As Shahjahan, the great Emperor once said, If Heaven exist somewhere, it is here in Kashmir!
This is so true as I know personally because I have stayed here for more than a year! Apart from the city, I like the lakes which you can float on in a romantic rowing boat called "Shikara" which look loke a gondola in Venice, Italy. Once can travel via the lake from the Dal Gate area to the Nagin Lake which is around a 40 minute rowing. Perched on the lakes are those lovely and beatiful houseboats. A little away from the town is the Wular Lake which is the largest lake in Asia. It has a different aura as it is not so crowded and looks amazingly serene.
If anyone will ask me, which are best accommodation there, I would classify it into two -
1) Hotels
2) Houseboats
If you like Luxury and can spend some extra money, the best are Vivanta by Taj Group and the Lalit Hotel, the erstwhile Palace and residence of the Maharaja of Kashmir, Hari Singh ji. The serenity of Kashmir could be felt more effectively while staying here for 4 or 5 nights. You may relax for 2 nights and 3 days you may spend moving around to Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam. You drive through the small hamlets near Srinagar and arrive in any of these places each day. It is also a choice to stay here in these places- there are hotels here as well but you cannot get the feel of The Lalit or Vivanta by Taj Hotel.
The Second Choice is extremely different where in you enjoy a Houseboat which is normally owned by a family and most of the time you get home cooked food but they are master craftsmen in cooking delicious Kashmiri Food. They are all Non Vegetarian there and hence best preparation or cuisines are mouth watering Gustava, Chicken Yakhni etc. There are various kinds of houseboats on the Dal and Nagin Lake. The latter is comparatively peaceful and tourist from the Western Countries prefer to stay on the Nagin Lake. These boats are of different tariffs
Deluxe Houseboats on the Dal Lake
Will write more on Kashmir later....
Hope you got some information on the Accommodation and Luxury in Srinagar.
#travel and #tourism #kashmir #India #Blogger #travelblogger
Village Tourism in South India ( Kerala and Tamil Nadu)
I would like to talk about a group of hotel and resorts in these states in India - The Anantya Group of beautiful resorts perched in the pristine surroundings of rural environment.
My endeavor is showcase Villages in India.
“Try your hand at native fishing. The local fisherman throw their nets into the water and roll in the fish. Trust us, it looks easy only when the fisherman does it!”
Ride in the country boat in Chittar lake.
One of the excellent way to stay there is to go and spend 2 nights and forget the World. A package with all meals ( Inclusions mentioned below in details ) can be hugely exhilarating for a Couple or even for a small family. 2 Nights holiday will prove to be a stay for a lifetime, I bet....
Delight your beloved with a ‘Floating Breakfast’ or a surprise ‘Romantic Private Dinner’ near the lake.
Calm your body with a relaxing Ayurveda massage.
The Villa where you can stay also has a private Pool.
Package inclusions:
• Welcome drink on arrival.
• Accommodation in the reserved category Villa for 2 adults.
• Breakfast (buffet), Lunch and Dinner (fixed menu).
• Plantation tour with a Guide with ‘Love Nest’ Photo op.
• ‘Floating Breakfast’ experience once during the stay.
• Romantic Candlelight Private Dinner once during the stay with 1 glass of beer/wine each.
(at the lakeside private dining area or pool hut, subject to availability).
• Full body massage for two people once during the stay at the well appointed Spa
• Access to all the In-house facilities and indoor recreation Center.
• Outdoor games like Badminton, Volleyball & Cycling.
• Bicycle ride for two.
• Good night Chocolates.
• Early check-in and late checkout facility (subject to availability).
Two Kinds of Villas are here -
Veda Pool Villas and Sadhna Pool Villas.
Cost for two person in each type of Villas is -
Rs 56000.00 and Rs 61000.00 for 2 people.
Of Course Taxes will be extra.
( for details and bookings, you may contact us, we would try and get you a discount)
I will discuss more on Village Tourism later in my Village Tourism Edition.
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