Travel Category

Wildlife Tourism in India: A Golden Chance to Encounter the Wild

• By Debasree Chakraborty
• Sep 27, 2020

Wildlife tourism is a very important part of the Indian tourism. And, this World Tourism Day 2020, the incredible range of travel experiences needs to be explored with wildlife tour packages in India. And I would guess rightly so, given the fact that, after Africa, India perhaps has the most species of endangered wildlife that one could see in the wild. The star attraction of India's National parks is, of course, the Royal Bengal tiger, and this majestic animal is certainly the main draw for the wildlife tourism in India.

India now has almost 40 notified tiger reserves spread across the country, from Kaziranga and Manas in the east to Tadoba in the west, from Corbett in the north to Periyar and Bandipur in the south. Even the offbeat Sundarbans to the popular wildlife sanctuaries of Bandhavgarh National Park, Ranthambore, Pench  The big plus point of having so many Tiger reserves is that one can combine and include the nearest one into an India itinerary easily and even those not coming for a wildlife only focused trip, can easily fit in a few days at one India's many National parks.

Having been in the industry for almost 30 years now, I've been lucky to have had a chance to visit quite a few of the Tiger reserves, as well as interact with several wildlife enthusiasts from across the world. The general consensus is that the Tiger is definitely the most regal and majestic of all mammals, and irrespective of how many times one has seen a Tiger, the thrill of spotting a Tiger in the wild, remains and does not diminish with repeated sightings. After a recent trip to Africa, where we saw lions in the wild, I was actually wondering as to whether the Lion actually deserves its title of "King of the Jungle", in my view, and plenty of people actually agreed with me on this, that, the Tiger actually has a larger presence, and greater karishma.

The Indian wildlife experience is actually very different from the African safari experience, and it is extremely important for travelers to understand this fact. Africa has an abundance of wildlife, so a tourist traveling to lets say, Kruger, is sort of guaranteed sightings of all the big 5, perhaps within the first few hours of entering the reserve, whereas, even in Bandhavgarh, the National Park with a good Tiger population, it is possible to have done half a dozen safaris and still not having sighted the Tiger !! 

Not just the tigers, Indian wildlife tourism also covers sighting of Asiatic Lions, One-horned Rhincoeros, colorful birds including migratpry species, gharials and many other rare species.

In the last couple of months, there had been a lot of uncertainty regarding the opening of the National Parks in the Covid-19 Global Pandemic, which was subject to the decision f the Indian Supreme Court. Fortunately, the Courts did allow the Parks to open, and it is now backing to business as usual. As a consequence of this, there have been some changes in the rules and regulations. The number of vehicles allowed into the Parks has been further curtailed, thereby making advance reservations all the more important, and also, the Central Indian reserves of Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Pench are now completely closed every Wednesday.

One of the other positives in recent times has been the opening of several wildlife resorts  and boutique lodges in the vicinity of the National Parks. Unlike Africa, even the Luxury lodges are not situated within the forests, but are outside, but, there are now a few Jungle lodges and camps in India, that are at par with the finest in the world. In addition to the Taj Safari lodges in Pench, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh, others that stand out are, the Samode Safari Lodge in Bandhavgarh, Singinawa, Flame of the Forest and Shergarh in Kanha, Forsyth’s Lodge in Satpura, and there is, of course, the Sherbagh tented camp in Ranthambhore. 

Top Five Taj Safari Lodges in India

• By Debasree Chakraborty
• Sep 09, 2020

Wildlife safaris in India are not just about spotting the elusive Royal Bengal Tigers or spotting the majestic Lion or coming across elephants and other beats of the jungle, it is about basking in the mesmerizing wild. To make the most of a jungle safari, there is an extensive range of wildlife resorts in India that make the adventure worth cherishing. Taj Safaris offers the golden opportunity to experience the unparalleled beauty of the jungles. With the charming hospitality of the Taj, each of the resorts creates a magical experience unlike any other for guests in the enchanting forest and national parks in India.

Check out the top five Taj safari lodges in India:

Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari Lodge - Bandhavgarh National Park

Owned by the Taj Group, the Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari Lodge - Bandhavgarh National Park offers the ultimate in luxury. In fact, it offers the best of lodge accommodation in Bandhavgarh. The twelve charming suites or Kutiyas (jungle village huts) are newly built in the 40-acre grounds of the renowned tented camp formerly known as Churhat Kothi. The original Kothi (homestead) comprising the guest areas remains and has been extensively renovated, but the guest accommodation is all brand new.

The Taj Group has offers the best accommodation, top-class services, gourmet cuisine and the best naturalists for wildlife holidays in India and especially at Bandhavgarh.

Banjaar Tola, A Taj Safari-Kanha National Park

One of the most premier wildlife resorts in India, Banjaar Tola is situated along the banks of the Banjaar River close to the Kanha National Park. The Taj safari resort is settled on 90 acres of private Sal forest intermixed with grasslands and a seasonal lake. Accommodation comprise of the two intimate camps of nine tents each. While retaining the charm of its natural environs, the jungle lodge does not lack any of the modern amenities.

In the property is swimming pool with outdoor as well as indoor lounge options and interactive dining areas. The rich cultural heritage of the region is also proudly displayed. The cuisine at the camp also celebrates tribal flavours in the mouth-watering food. Stay at the Kanha luxury resort assures memorable experiences of wildlife viewing.

Baghvan, A Taj Safari - Pench National Park

Owned by the Taj Group, the Baghvan offers the ultimate in luxury, as far as lodge accommodation in Pench is concerned. The name Baghvan draws its inspiration from one of India's iconic symbols, the Bengal tiger. Even the name (bagh - tiger and van - forest) is inspired by the same. Pronounced baagh-vun, this charming lodge is located on the edge of Pench National Park. The Baghvan has 12 stand-alone suites, each charming individual suite has a contemporary bungalow feel with a cheeky 50's ambience.

All suites have a spacious air-conditioned bedroom with private shaded sit-outs. Bedrooms all have a Jharokha (wooden latticed bay window) that filters the soft early morning light and covered inter-leading link takes guests to generously proportioned bathrooms with double vanity, separate w.c, indoor and outdoor showers. Leisure facilities at the Baghvan include a large swimming pool, and large common guest areas, where talks and film shows on wildlife are held almost daily.

Pashan Garh, A Taj Safari - Panna National Park

Pashan Garh or ‘stone fortress’ is one of the luxury jungle lodges in India. Owned by the Taj Group, the lodge in the Panna National Park offers a comfortable stay and the thrill of the wild. Set in 200 acres of private wilderness, Pashan Garh has 12 stone cottages huddled atop a small hill, with a widespread view of dense foliage. The luxury jungle lodge draws inspiration from the stone houses of the Panna region and Khajuraho.

The jungle lodge has large and airy guest areas. Soak in the natural beauty all around while strolling through the open courtyards and a stone deck overlooking the expanse of the forest. A lookout tower in the premises offers the setup for bird watching by day and stargazing after sundown. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the rectangular pool under shady trees. Delicious Indian fare treating your taste buds are served. The venue is all the more amazing arranged at the most beautiful nooks and corners of the lodge beside the in-house dining. Discover the lavish comforts of the stone cottages at the Taj luxury jungle lodge.

Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa

A part of history and a unique experience, the Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa is among the best places to stay in the backwater town of Kumarakom. With only 28 exclusive villas or cottages, the Taj resort is set amidst almost 15 acres of natural greenery.

Dating back to 1881 when the Baker’s family, the founders of modern Kumarakom set up their residence here, the original bungalow still stands gracefully on the shore of the beautiful lagoon. The sprawling grounds are dotted with century-old trees, water bodies and the Kumarakom bird sanctuary-home to millions of birds and multitude of species.

The colonial charms are retained in the resort, in its layout, artefacts, and décor. The cuisine is a generous mix of Taj signature dishes, comfort food and location inspired farm and backwaters cuisine. Adhering to the traditions of Kerala- the origin of Ayurveda and the class of the Taj, the Jiva Spa pampers with secrets of wellness. Houseboat cruises, bird-watching excursions and more add to the memorable experience of stay the luxury Kumarakom Resort.

Golden Triangle Tour:  Quintessential Introduction to India

• By Debasree Chakraborty
• Aug 19, 2020

The incredible India is not just one country but a country of million experiences. The land of ancient history, colorful heritage and even more vibrant culture is a traveller’s treasure box. Such is the vastness and diversity of the land that is pretty much impossible to explore and experience it all at one India tour. If India’s best could be put in a nutshell, then it is the brief and carefully-planned Golden Triangle Tour.

In north India, the three cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, 200-250 kms apart, become the three points of the Golden Triangle. These cities are home to great empires, fascinating chapters of history, colorful heritage, magnificent architecture including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bustling bazaars, enriching experiences and more. This is an ultimate experience of India, especially if you have never visited before, this is the ideal start.

The Glorious History & Heritage

Golden Triangle tour’s itinerary comprises of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and each of these cities are a treasure of glorious history & heritage.

The ‘City of Cities’ Delhi - To start with Delhi, the capital city of India is not one city but a city of eight cities. The oldest city of Delhi, Indraprastha dates back to 3000 years back mentioned in the epic Mahabharata while the name Old Delhi is given to the city of Mughals when they made Delhi their capital and the newest Delhi is planned during the British Raj by the architect Lutyens. Each of these settlements is a testimony of glorious history and heritage.

Of note in Delhi is the impressive architecture and craftsmanship that mark each of the different eras and harmoniously coexist with the city matching pace with the modern times. The UNESCO World heritage sites in Delhi- Red Fort, Qutub Minar Complex and Humayun’s Tomb are must visit. Other impressive attractions are- Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Raj Ghat, Lodhi Garden, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, etc.

‘Gem of the Mughal Era’ Agra - Moving on to Agra, the city of Taj; it is a city of Mughal splendor. The former capital of the Mughal Empire, the city is well-known for the beautiful Taj Mahal, a wonder of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The red-sandstone Agra Fort is another testament of the regal history. Other popular specimens of heritage are Itmad-ul-daulah ‘Baby Taj’, and Akbar’s Tomb. The marvelous Fatehpur Sikri is also a must-visit heritage site, on the outskirts of Agra. Once a glorious Mughal city, the city was abandoned and left in ruin.

‘Pride of the Rajputana’ Jaipur – Last stop of the Golden Triangle, Jaipur is a glorious city of Rajputana. Nicknamed as Pink City, the capital city of Rajasthan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Walled city of Jaipur dates back to the 17th century, where the entire city was built after proper planning and following of Vastu Shastra. Magnificent forts, royal palaces, incredible architecture are specimens of the royal heritage. Amer Fort and Jantar Mantar are inscribed among UNESCO World Heritage sites, while other masterpieces of architecture are Hawa Mahal-the Palace of Winds, the City Palace, Jal Mahal, Albert Hall Museum and more.

Rich culture

Culture is the legacy of the people and the Golden Triangle tour presents the culture of the Rajputs, Mughals and the multi-cultural Delhi. Festivals highlight the colorful culture and if you would like a brief introduction to the festivities the tour circuit offers the ideal opportunity.

Mouthwatering Tastes

Be it Delhi, Agra or Jaipur, each of these cities offers an opportunity to savor mouthwatering tastes. Delhi is well-known both for street food as well as luxury dining. Old Delhi is famous for its mouthwatering parathas, kachoris and other snacks while the top-notch hotels offer a fine dining experience. Agra specialized in Mughali cuisines and especially the sweet ‘petha’. Jaipur presents the ultimate Rajasthani cuisine with a delicious dishes including the ‘dal-bhati-churma’ and ‘laal maas’.

Royal Hospitality

Golden Triangle tours is crafted in a way that it captures the best of India and for that is also capture the experience of the royal hospitality of India. Luxury is a way of life for the guests. Luxury properties, heritage hotels transformed from royal palaces and the international resorts serve guests with a memorable stay. While the lodgings are heavenly, the services are personalized for the guests to feel right at home and enjoy Indian rituals and customs.

Extending your trip

Track tigers in Ranthambhore or spot birds in Bharatpur

The Ranthambhore National Park was once a hunting ground for the maharajas and now protects a growing tiger population. Easy to get to by road, the park is known for incredible tiger sightings as well as other wildlife, including blackbucks and rare leopards. Embark on game drives in the mornings and evenings to increase your chances of seeing a tiger or a group of them.

Bharatpur is the home to Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to many colorful species of birds including migratory birds that seek refuge in the winters.

A Royal Rajasthan Tour

The Golden Triangle slots in to a longer tour of Rajasthan that can include the ‘City of Lakes’ Udaipur or the ‘Blue City’ Jodhpur or the ‘Golden City’ Jaisalmer. Each of these royal cities further enhance the thrill of exploring India.

Bask in the holy bliss of Varanasi

The ancient city of Varanasi is the perfect getaway with the holy River Ganga, sacred river Ghats, Ganga Aarti, temples and more.

Off to the beaches

Goa and Kerala offer a refreshing beach experience. Beaches, backwaters, Ayurveda massages, seafood, watersports and leisure time, this puts a very invigorating end to your India tour.

Best time to visit India’s Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle Tour is best suited between the months from October to April. The winter season in India is a pleasant time to go sightseeing, relish the Indian spicy food and have some incredible experiences.

13 UNESCO Listed Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of India

• By Debasree Chakraborty
• Aug 01, 2020

India’s cultural heritage is matchless. Cultural Heritage of India that does not limit itself to monuments, collections of objects or a particular places; it also includes traditions that have been passed through generations as a way of life. The Intangible Cultural Heritage of India includes social practices, festivals, rituals, oral traditions, knowledge, performing arts, and particular skills to produce traditional crafts. In India, in its centuries of existence, vast cultural diversity, heritage and population, intangible cultural heritage is found in every nook and very corner of the country.

In changing times, the cultural heritage is being lost and to preserve this vast wealth, UNESCO lists these cultural practices at Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For the tarveles exploring India, the cultural heritage is an incredible experience that makes you fall in love with the colourful kaleipdoscpe of the country.

India has a total of 13 such representative ones in the list:

1. Yoga

Yoga is an ancient art of health and wellness. It is a holistic knowledge of unifying the mind with body and soul. It is a traditional approach of spiritual, mental and physical well-being taught by the ascetics (rishis) who lead a life of discipline. Yoga comprises a series of poses, meditation, controlled breathing, word chanting, etc. The intangible cultural heritage is one of the reasons to visit India.

Where to go in India to learn about Yoga?

Rishikesh is the Yoga capital of the world and the must-visit place for yoga in India. Bangalore, Kerala, Goa and are the popular places.

2. Kumbh Mela

The holy gathering of Kumbh Mela is one of the largest human congregations in the world. The festival of the ‘sacred pitcher’ is a gathering where the pilgrims bathe or take dip in the holy rivers of India. As old as Indian civilization if not more, the festival is organized once in 12 years in four pilgrimage places on the banks of sacred rivers in Haridwar (River Ganga), Ujjain (River Kshipra), Nashik (River Narmada) and Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad (Triveni Sangam -confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati).

Where to go in India to learn about Kumbh Mela?

Haridwar, Allahabad, Nashik and Ujjain are the four sacred places where the Kumbh Mela is organized.

3. Kalbelia

Kalbelia is a folk dance form of Rajasthan that is a part of the culture of the nomadic community of the deserts of Rajasthan. The seductive dance form by the vibrantly attired women is performed on the melodies of ‘Khanjari’ percussion instrument and the ‘Poongi’, a woodwind instrument. The Kalbelia folk performances are based upon the myths and tales of the desert. The intangible cultural heritage is one of the best treasures of India.

Where to go in India to learn about Kalbelia?

The desert dunes of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan or at the major festivals of the state including Pushkar Mela, Bikaner Camel Festival, Jaisalmer Desert Festival, etc.

4. Koodiyattam

Koodiyattam is an ancient Sanskrit theatrical tradition practiced in Kerala. The beautiful Kerala is an ancient land of history, heritage and culture. Fondly named “God’s Own Country’ the land is a paradise and the traditions are in reverence of the deities close to nature. Traditionally performed in theatres called as Kuttampalams located in the Hindu temples, the theatrical production is a treasured cultural heritage of Kerala.

Where to go in India to learn about Koodiyattam?

Cultural centers in Kerala, especially Kochi keeps the tradition alive. The many luxury resorts of Kerala also recreate for its guests.

5. Vedic Chanting

India’s vedic era was the base of civilization. The sacred texts of veds of the time are the holy texts of Indian culture. The tradition of Vedic chanting involves chanting during sacred rituals and recited daily by the Vedic communities known not only for the rich content of its oral literature but also for the ingenious techniques employed by the Brahmin priests.

Where to go in India to learn about Vedic chanting?

This experience is not very hard as the many temples all over India practice the tradition.

6. Ramlila

A theatrical performance of Ramayana, the Ramlila is performed across North India during the festival of Dussehra. What makes this special is the devotion for the characters of Ramayana, the dialogues and the lessons of life. It is a treasured cultural heritage of India.

Where to go in India to learn about Ramlila?

Vrindavan, Varanasi, Delhi and Ramnagar are the most popular places.

7. Ramman

Another religious festival of India that finds its mention among the elite list of cultural heritage of humanity in India is Ramman. Hailing from the mountains of Uttarakhand, the festivities involve one particular village where all the residents have specific roles.

Where to go in India to learn about Ramman?

The villages of Saloor and Dungra in Uttarakhand are the exclusive places to experience the festival.

8. Mudiyett

From the God’s Own Country, Kerala, Mudiyett is a ritual dance drama based on a mythological tale of the battle between Darika, the demon and Goddess Kali. The vibrant attire, the magnificent masks and the traditions make it a rare gem of Indian cultural heritage.

Where to go in India to learn about Mudiyett?

Cultural centers in Kerala, especially Kochi keeps the tradition alive. The many luxury resorts of Kerala also recreate for its guests.

9. Chhau Dance

Chhau Dance is a semi-classical form of tribal dance, combining martial arts, storytelling, martial arts, mock combat, acrobatics, and athletics and story-telling based in eastern India. Based on episodes from epics including the Mahabharata and Ramayana, local folklore and abstract themes, the dance form is a colorful cultural heritage. The incredible masks used in Chhau are worth admiring as are the vibrant attires, musical instruments and graceful dance is an experience to cherish.

Where to go in India to learn about Chhau Dance?

The origin of Chhau Dance is East India, in the cities of Kolkata, Purulia, Bhubaneswar, etc.

10. Buddhist Chanting

Buddhist chanting is a part of the prayers of the Buddhist lamas (priests) in the Ladakh region. There are several forms of chanting and what makes it special is the serenity it grants to the chanters and one who even listen to the chants. Accompanied with musical instruments, these chants are a melody that soothes the body, mind and soul.

Where to go in India to learn about Buddhist Chanting?

Monasteries in Ladakh keep the tradition alive.

11. Sankirtana

Hailing from the North East India, Sankirtana is a set of arts performed to mark religious occasions and various stages in the life of the Vaishnava people of the Manipur plains.

12. Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making

The craft of the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru constitutes the traditional technique of manufacturing brass and copper utensils in Punjab.

13. Nawrouz

The Persian New year celebrated worldwide. It involves street performances of music and dance, public rituals involving water and fire, traditional sports and the making of handicrafts.

The 10 Best Travel Books That Will Ignite Curiosity and Deepen your Love for India

• By Debasree Chakraborty
• Jul 21, 2020

There is a famous saying “the thing about books is they let you travel without moving your feet” and this is one of the best ways to travel when you are unable to do so. A way to satiate your travel lust till you can actually travel to India, travel books make you travel to places, uncover the deepest of secrets and enrich you with incredible experiences. India is a land of infinite travel experiences and the travel books capture the charms of the land that ignites curiosity and deepen your love for India.

If you are a voracious reader and lived life through the books or just starting with reading, the travel books about India will take you to a world of wonders, inspire you, and in fact change you forever.

Let’s run down some of the best travel books about India that are a must read for the love of the country.

1. City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi - William Dalrymple

The City of Djinns is written with much love by William Dalrymple who has been enamored by India and especially the capital city, Delhi. The book narrates a curious tale of the centuries-long history of the eight cities of Delhi along with the legend of the djinn, the spirit that assures the restoration of the city like a phoenix, no matter the times it has been destroyed.

2. Chasing the Monsoon - Alexander Frater

As the name suggests the travelogue by Alexander Farter is all about Chasing the Monsoon in India and thereby exploring this vast and diverse land in all its glory. The beautiful descriptions of flooded paddy fields to rain-washed monuments, the blissful season of monsoons is lovingly captured in all its moods, soothing the reader and te traveller.

3. No Full Stops in India – Mark Tully

A must read for travellers in love with India, the book beautifully capture the love story between this BBC correspondent and India. The half-century long love affair with India is fondly captured with an account of travels through the country and his reflections. The everyday stories make you fall in love with India and experience affectionate feelings for the country.

4. Q&A – Vikas Swarup

A thought-provoking tale of the diversity of India, this novel is the script of multiple Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire. The story speaks about the contrasts which exist in the urban landscape of metropolitan India. The of various cultures, various people and all their stories and the hope that make India a true treasure to explore.

5. A Passage to India – E.M Forster

A must read for the tarvellers in love with India, a Passage to India is one of the 100 great works of 20th century English literature by the Modern Library and is considered to be one of the most beautiful accounts describing pre-Independence India. The story is set against the backdrop of the British Raj and the Indian independence movement in the 1920s. It paints the colourful and charming painting of vast and diverse India.

6. Butter Chicken in Ludhiana: Travels in Small Town India ­– Pankaj Mishra

A light-hearted book that narrates the tale of travelling in India, Butter Chicken in Ludhiana: Travels in Small Town India is a fascinating read. The name of the book is taken from one of India’s most favorite meal for non-vegetarians- the savory Butter Chicken. The tale is about the author’s encounters with the charming people of India and the fascinating culture while exploring places such as Mandi, Pushkar, Kottayam, Murshidabad, and extensive travel through small towns in India.

7. Wanderings in India and Other Sketches of Life in Hindostan – John Lang

A fascinating travelogue for travellers who are want to explore India or discover the country in a new light, the Wanderings in India and Other Sketches of Life in Hindostan is a must-read. The fantastic narrative of India during the colonial times and the many lifestyle habits of the British, this book helps travelers explore the colonial architecture of India in its various hill stations and cities now.

8. Nine Lives: In Search of the Sacred in Modern India – William Dalrymple

An Indian travelogue, the Nine Lives: In Search of the Sacred in Modern India is another masterpiece by William Dalrymple. The novel captures an experience of the spirituality of this diverse land through the narration of the lives of nine Indians from different religious backgrounds and the uniqueness that each exudes. This is a must-read for the ones who are in awe of the magical world of India.

9. Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found – Suketu Mehta

This Pulitzer Prize finalist, Maximum City is a must read for travellers curious about India or in deep love with India. The chronicle of India’s most vibrant metropolis, Mumbai, the novel captures the extremities of life, the colourful characters within the ‘the biggest, fastest, richest city in India’ and the unity and charms within the vast diversity.

10. All Roads Lead to Ganga – Ruskin Bond

A lovely piece of writing by the classic novelist Ruskin Bond, this is also a must read. It is a masterfully-crafted painting of the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand and the author who has lovingly made his home here. It reads like a love letter to the Indian countryside and especially the nature of Dehradun, Mussoorie, and the Char Dham pilgrimage routes to the source of the Ganga (Ganges) River.

While the list of travel books that deepens the love for India is vast, we specifically chose the top ten must reads.