Have Feet, Will Travel

The Great Ocean Road Drive, Australia: Through the Lens

2013-05-23T10:30:00Z

So what does it take to start off on one of the world’s best coastal drives? I say, a map, to begin with. A 243-kilometre (151 miles) stretch of road along the south-eastern coast of Australia, a drive to the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne city will surely leave you speechless. Hence, I’ll let my camera do all the talking...

The International Film Festival of Marrakech

2013-05-23T10:23:29Z

The name Marrakech conjures up images of noisy bazaars, colourful souks and exotic spices. Yet, it is so much more than the stereotyped image in films. It’s the fourth largest city in Morocco, in northwest Africa. Though an ancient city (established in 1062), it is today an important economic and cultural centre of Morocco. The city hosts the annual International Film Festival of Marrakech – a festival that showcases and awards the best of Moroccan films as well as foreign feature films. This year, the festival will be held between November 30 and December 8.

Top Five Luxury Hotels in Mumbai

2013-05-23T09:43:58Z

Let’s cut to the chase. If you’re planning to visit Mumbai soon and want to experience the best of luxury accommodation in the City of Dreams, then you might want to consider the following five of our recommended 5 star hotels in Mumbai.

THE RISE AND RISE OF THE SUNRISERS

2013-05-23T08:00:00Z

What happened with Cameron White’s troops the night before does not convey the true potential and talent of the SunRisers Hyderabad. It was a battle well fought. It was a battle that claimed my nails as casualty. Though it left the fans and players of SunRisers Hyderabad disappointed, I think there’s more to cheer about than fret. IPL is here to stay, and so are the SunRisers.

The Best Hotels in Calangute, Goa

2013-05-23T06:13:27Z

The largest beach in North Goa, Calangute is popular with locals and tourists alike. Its popularity extends to the fact that even the Beatles used to come and hang out here in the 60s! Today, it is a bustling beach, frequented by tourists – both from India and abroad. Apart from just enjoying the sun and the sand, the ‘queen of the beaches’ also has water activities such as surfing, parasailing and water skiing. Being so popular, there is no dearth of places to stay in Calangute, however finding the best deals on hotels is a bit difficult. To simplify things, we have handpicked the best hotels in Calangute for you. So make your hotel bookings online on MakeMyTrip.com, and avail great last minute deals on these hotels.

5 Best Beach Resorts in Goa

2013-05-22T13:30:33Z

Mention Goa and the first thought that will come to anyone’s mind is that of stretches of sandy beaches lined with swaying palms. From north to south, this tiny state is dotted with beaches – some popular, some secluded, but all of them equally beautiful. Along most of these beaches there are hotels and resorts; some of which even boast of a private beach. From two-star hotels to five-star hotels in Goa, there are accommodations to suit every budget. We have lined up the best beach resorts in Goa for your next holiday. Avail great last minute deals on these hotels when you make your booking online with MakeMyTrip.

Hong Kong Nightlife through the Eyes of an Indian Traveller

2013-05-22T04:30:00Z

It’s almost like the song “All night long” was written for Hong Kong. With its vibrant nightlife, Hong Kong is undoubtedly the “party capital of Asia”. And to understand just how great it is I decided to let loose the party animal in me and explore the effervescent nightlife culture of this bustling destination.

Top 5 Hotels near Bangalore Airport

2013-05-22T04:29:14Z

Bangalore has become the hottest business destination in the past few years, especially for companies in technology and financial services. With this rapid growth and development, the city has morphed into a bustling metropolis. So if business takes you to Bangalore and you don’t have to travel to the city centre, finding hotels near Bangalore airport is your best option. Though there are very few hotels in Bangalore near the airport, we have picked out the best for your stay. Avail great last minute deals on these hotels when you book online on MakeMyTrip.com.

Olde Bangalore Hotel & Resort

Unlike most business hotels, Olde Bangalore lives up to its name and offers a trip back in time. Accommodation is provided in cottages – luxury tents, complete with all the modern amenities. Though room service is not available, due to the nature of the accommodation, South Parade, their restaurant offers fine dining in a charming, old-worldly ambience. You can even shake a leg at the hotel’s dance floor. The hotel has a bar, a coffee shop and a bakery, which churns out freshly-made breads, muffins & pastries every day. Olde Bangalore is 14 kilometres from the airport.

Olde Bangalore is a beautiful blend of old world charm and modern facilities

Fantasy Golf Resort

Located about 6 kilometres from Bangalore airport, Fantasy Golf Resort is an oasis of greenery and calm. The resort offers conference facilities and has a theatre style hall. It’s perfect for corporate off-sites, offering plenty of indoor and outdoor activities. Food is prepared fresh upon order. Unwind at the end of the day by playing a few rounds on their putting green or take a dip in the pool. The resort also has a club with an in-house DJ, so you can truly let your hair down.

Clarks Exotica Resort & Spa

Nestled in 70 acres of greenery, Clarks Exotica is another great hotel near Bangalore airport (11 kilometres). There is a business centre and boardroom and the hotel offers video conferencing facilities. Their multi-cuisine restaurant, Blue Alps serves a variety of dishes and there is a poolside bar, Illusion. Room service is also available. Relax at the spa or the library or get active in the well-appointed gym or the games centre.

The multi-cuisine restaurant at Clarks serves a variety of delicious dishes

Hotel Presidency

This is a budget hotel in Bangalore, just 1 kilometre from the airport. Hotel Presidency is an ideal transit hotel and also offers a room for a 4-hour checkout if you’re just passing through the city. Even if you plan to stay longer, it’s a nice, cheap hotel in Bangalore that has a business centre as well as a rooftop venue for small events. Nandanvana, their multi-cuisine restaurant, serves freshly-prepared, delicious food. The rooms have all the modern amenities, with interesting old-fashioned wooden flat bolts on the doors.

Goldfinch Retreat

Goldfinch Retreat is one of the finest 4-star hotels near Bangalore airport (7 kilometres). The rooms are tastefully done up with all amenities; some suites are also available with a kitchenette. The hotel has a fully-equipped business centre and conference rooms. The restaurant, Banjara, serves traditionally cooked Indian food as well as Chinese & Mediterranean fare. Unwind at Aviator, the lounge bar, or at the massive, round pool. Service is hospitable and they provide a complimentary airport transfer on request.

Gorge on a variety of scrumptious delicacies from around the world at Goldfinch Retreat

Planning a trip to Bangalore? Book your flight and train tickets only on MakeMyTrip.com!

Celebrating the Birth of Bhagavad Gita in Kurukshetra

2013-05-22T03:00:00Z

There are several offbeat festivals in India and the Gita Jayanti Samaroh is one such unique celebration. This festival commemorates the birth of one of India’s most revered holy texts, the Bhagavad Gita. The festival takes place in Kurukshetra, Haryana and is usually held in November or December. It’s an annual event and is celebrated with much fanfare, with both the devotees and the curious descending upon Kurukshetra to be a part of this one-of-a-kind celebration. The festival is jointly organised by Haryana Tourism and the Kurukshetra Development Board. Lately, it is being celebrated as the week-long Kurukshetra Festival of Haryana. This year, the festival commences on December 13^th, 2013.

The holy text of the Bhagavad Gita

Mythological Roots

It is believed that Kurukshetra is the land where the real essence of Hinduism was founded. The area is named after King Kuru, who was the ancestor of the Pandavas and the Kauravas. It is also known as Dharmakshetra or the Holy City and this is where the epic battle of Mahabharata is said to have taken place. It’s the place where the Gita was preached, which became the philosophical guide for Arjuna as he battled not just the Kauravas but also his inner demons. The Bhagavad Gita provides answers to all the problems in life and it is the most sacred text of Hinduism. Other ancient texts such as Manusmriti, Rig Veda and Saam Veda are also said to have been composed in Kurukshetra. The Gita Jayanti festival celebrates the religious importance of this region as well as the holy text.

A scene from the Mahabharata | Photo Credit: Arnab Dutta / Wikimedia

The Festival

The festival is characterised by several spiritual activities such as recital of shlokas from the Gita, bhajans and katha readings (reading of stories from the Gita). Other activities include dance, dramatisation of scenes from the Mahabharata and Sufi music. There are book exhibitions and medical camps as well as discussions and talks by Hindu scholars and charity events. Local arts and crafts are also on sale. Devotees usually take a bath in the holy waters of two of the tanks in Kurukshetra – the Brahma Sarovar and the Sannihit Sarovar. The festival is held for a one week, with the Gita Jayanti being celebrated on the 11^th day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Margasheersh.

Getting there

Kurukshetra is well-connected by road and rail with major cities in northern India. Delhi is the nearest airport. There are couple of mid-range to budget hotels in the town and you can get great last minute deals on MakeMyTrip.com. Apart from attending the Gita Mahotsav, other places of interest include Jyotisar, a small town 12 kilometres from Kurukshetra, which is said to be the place where Krishna delivered the Gita to Arjuna. There are several temples, ghats and gurudwaras in Kurukshetra as well as the Krishna Museum and the Kalpana Chawla Planetarium. There are several other cultural and religious festivals celebrated in Haryana that may be of interest.

Immerse yourself in this historical festival celebrating the Bhagavad Gita. Book your train or bus tickets to Kurukshetra only on MakemyTrip.com!

Experience Gujarat’s Unique Cultural Festival, the Rann Utsav

2013-05-21T08:09:36Z

Every December, one of India’s most unique cultural festivals is celebrated in Gujarat – the Rann Utsav. The festival proudly showcases the myriad arts and crafts of Gujarat, its folk song and dance and the Rann’s natural beauty. The festival begins on December 15th and continues till January 31st, 2014. In fact, the state tourism department is considering holding the festival for 90 days this year, given the huge jump in the number of visitors and the increasing interest in the festival. Online bookings for the Rann Utsav begin on May 1st.

The Best Hotels at Bangalore’s M G Road

2013-05-21T06:10:01Z

No visit to Bangalore is complete without going to M G Road, the bustling high street in the city. It’s lined with shops, restaurants and old-world book stores – do check out Gangaram’s and Higgin Bothams. There are several cafes to relax in, especially the iconic Koshy’s, which serves delicious bakery products. There are plenty of hotels nearby and you can definitely find something to suit your budget. We recommend 5 of the best hotels in and around M G Road for you. Book these hotels online on MakeMyTrip.com and also check out great last minute deals on these and other hotels around the country.

Bangalore has no dearth if interesting things to do and places to visit

Vivanta by Taj

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Bangalore, look no further than Vivanta by Taj. A great location coupled with the Taj hospitality, this hotel will ensure that you have a wonderful stay in the Garden City. Located at Trinity Circle on M G Road, the hotel is close to business areas as well commercial streets. Try and get a room with a view of the pool. The hotel has several top-class restaurants – Cafe Mozaic for pan-Indian, Memories of China that serves an inimitable Peking duck and the European restaurant, Graze. The hotel also has a business centre and a boardroom with all facilities.

The luxurious Vivanta by Taj in Bangalore

St. Mark’s Hotel

Another gem of a hotel, St Mark’s Hotel is located very close to M G Road and has a great view of the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore. The 4-star boutique hotel is known for its impeccable service and the rooms are large and equipped with modern amenities. Dine at Curry with a ‘K’, their fine dining restaurant or have a sundowner or two at Luscious, the resto bar. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace garden that serves snacks and drinks throughout the day.

The rooftop terrace garden at St. Mark’s offers beautiful views and delicious food

JuSTa The Residence

One of the boutique luxury hotels at M G Road Bangalore, juSTa The Residence has quiet rooms even though it’s just off the bustling commercial street. The interiors have seen the deft touch of a fashion designer, with hand-picked furniture and touches of contemporary art all around the hotel. The hotel has a multi-cuisine restaurant and offers a complimentary buffet breakfast. The metro station is close by as are the shopping and entertainment areas of M G Road & Brigade Road.

The Chancery

An opulent hotel at Lavelle Road, The Chancery is perfect for a business or leisure stay and it’s just off M G Road. The rooms and suites are large and tastefully done up, with all amenities, including Wi-Fi connectivity. The complimentary breakfast buffet is quite generous. The Khayal restaurant serves authentic Awadhi cuisine and you can also enjoy live ghazals as you dine. Their South Parade restaurant is open all day and also offers a sumptuous midnight buffet.

The Monarch

The Monarch is one of the budget hotels in Bangalore, located on the lively Brigade Road, off M G Road and is especially suitable if you’re planning a long stay in the city. The recently renovated rooms and suites are well-furnished and the bathrooms are fitted with a bathtub. Their kitchens serve up good Indian and Continental food. If you’re looking for variety, just step outside and you will have a range of good restaurants at walking distance. Despite its prime location, it’s one of the cheap hotels in Bangalore.

So book your flight and train tickets on MakeMyTrip.com and have a pleasant stay in Bangalore.

SunRisers Hyderabad reach the 'Last Four' in IPL 2013

2013-05-21T05:35:00Z

Photo Credit: Dilpreet Singh

While the opponents huffed and puffed, SunRisers Hyderabad rocked and rolled!

CSR Summit & Excellence Awards: Recognising Non-Economic Objectives of Organisations

2013-05-21T05:25:22Z

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has assumed great importance in the past few years. The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) has instituted the CSR Summit & Excellence Awards to recognise businesses that have been committed to CSR. The awards ceremony is held every year in Delhi. For the year 2012-2013, the ceremony was held on December 20^th 2012 at The Taj Mahal Hotel and former Indian President Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam was the chief guest. Other notable guests at the event were Mr. Sachin Pilot, the MoS for Corporate Affairs and former Chief Justice of India Mr. R C Lahoti. The event was well-attended by many stalwarts from the corporate world.

What is CSR?

CSR has a very broad definition, though anything that a company does beyond its economic objectives to improve the society in which it operates can be termed as CSR. The term is generally used interchangeably with philanthropy and sustainability. In India, given the country’s great divide between huge economic growth and large-scale poverty, CSR assumes greater importance as it gives companies a chance to give back to society in a sustainable and continuous manner. Many companies have internalised this philosophy and ASSOCHAM’s CSR Excellence Awards aims to appreciate these companies in a public forum so that more companies are encouraged to follow suit. For the year 2012-2013, India’s leading steel company, Tata Steel, was the recipient of CSR Excellence Awards in the Large Corporates category.

Over the years, the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been given high importance by corporates

Delhi Calling

If you plan to head over to the capital city for this event, there are many accommodation options especially since the venue of the event is in central Delhi. The venue itself, Hotel Taj Mahal on Mansingh Road, is the epitome of luxury and a great base for your trip. Le Meridien at Janpath is a good mid-range option, 2.2 kilometres from the venue. For the budget traveller, Hotel Janpath at Connaught Place (3.7 kilometres) is a great option. MakeMyTrip has several last minute deals on these and many other hotels in Delhi, so be sure to check them out.

The variety of food in Delhi is legendary and there are numerous places to eat at. Also, there are plenty of shopping options and things to do in the city. The city also has a buzzing nightlife, especially in the Connaught Place area.

Connaught Place, one of the liveliest areas in Delhi

Getting to the Venue

If you’re arriving at Delhi by train, the New Delhi railway station is about 6 kilometres from the hotel and you can easily get a taxi or rickshaw to the venue. Delhi’s airport is a good 15 kilometres away from the hotel and a prepaid taxi from the airport is the best way to get to the venue. The Delhi Metro has made it quite easy to get around the city. The closest metro station to The Taj Mahal Hotel is the Khan Market Metro Station, which is merely 550 metres from the hotel.

So, head over to Delhi for the next edition of the awards this December. Plan your trip and book your flight or train tickets only on MakeMyTrip.com!

Hong Kong’s Ultimate Nightlife – Bars, Pubs and Movies

2013-05-20T04:30:36Z

My keyboard is covered in dust and gives me a disapproving look. The computer screen has shut its doors and windows (literally!). The CPU is throwing a tantrum while the mouse refuses to move even an inch from its slumber. I have not written a blog for some time. All I have done is party, dance and enjoy the most thrilling nightlife in the most awesome city in the world. I have been in Hong Kong for some time.

Education Excellence Awards 2013 in Delhi: An ASSOCHAM Initiative

2013-05-20T04:30:00Z

Reform in education is the need of the hour and The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) has undertaken several initiatives, especially in the field of higher education. The apex body recently organised an International Conference on Excellence in Education to discuss how the quality of higher education can be enhanced to combat the problem of unemployable graduates. ASSOCHAM has also instituted the Education Excellence Awards 2013 to recognise and award institutes and universities that contribute significantly towards imparting quality education. Institutes that use technology effectively and also those that serve the underprivileged are also recognised. The awards ceremony was held on April 9^th, 2013 at The Imperial hotel in Delhi.

Transforming Education

The Awards were conferred in various categories, such as Best Higher Education Institute, Best Institute Promoting Research, Best School for Innovation & Value-based Education, Best Interactive Solution Provider and more. The awards were given by the Union Education Minister Mr. Pallam Raju. The eminent jury included former cabinet secretary Mr. Surendra Singh and former UGC Chairman Prof. Sukhdev Thorat, to name a few. The participating institutes were judged on the criteria of innovation, scalability, achievements and impact potential. Some of the winners include VIT University, Vellore (Best Higher Education Institute), Manav Rachna International University, Faridabad (Best Private Upcoming University) and TAPMI, Manipal (Best Business School in South Region). IIT Delhi’s Certificate Course in Business Management was awarded for the Best Use of Technology. This is a commendable initiative by ASSOCHAM to address the challenges faced by the education system and to bring about reforms.

Education Excellence Awards recognize the importance of higher education in India

Finding Your Bearings in Delhi

The award ceremony takes place in Delhi and the capital city offers many stay options to suit all budgets. The LaLiT New Delhi is a great place to stay at if you’re looking for a luxury hotel. It is located in Connaught Place, about 3 kilometres from the venue. The venue itself, The Imperial, is a good 5 star hotel. For a budget stay, try Hotel Janpath at Connaught Place (2.5 kilometres). MakeMyTrip has several last minute deals on these and many other hotels in Delhi, so check them out before booking your stay. There is a mind-boggling variety of food in Delhi and there are numerous places to eat at. Also, there is no dearth of shopping options and things to do in the city. Delhi’s nightlife, especially in the Connaught Place area, is worth experiencing.

The Imperial Hotel in Delhi, the venue of the event

Getting There

If you’re arriving in Delhi by train, the New Delhi railway station is about 3.7 kilometres from the venue and you can get a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to bring you to the hotel. The airport is 14 kilometres away from The Imperial. You can book a prepaid taxi from the airport to bring you to the venue. Getting around Delhi is quite easy, thanks to the excellent Metro services. The closest metro station to Hotel Imperial is the Udyog Bhavan Metro, which is less than a kilometre from the hotel.

Will you be heading to Delhi anytime soon? Book your flight or train tickets to Delhi only on MakeMyTrip.com!

Top Hotels in Goa by the Beach

2013-05-20T04:00:09Z

Picture this - glistening white sands, inviting blue waters and lazy evenings spent sipping cocktails. Lounging on the beaches of Goa has always been a top experience for many a traveller. Now you don’t need to travel to a beach to experience this joie de vivre, it comes straight to you!

Top Five Budget Hotels in Bangalore

2013-05-19T05:30:04Z

Visiting Bangalore on business but want to save on hotel costs? Then consider booking a service apartment or one of the cheap hotels in Bangalore. There are couple of hotels at M G Road Bangalore as well as some suites in the IT hub of Whitefield that offer a comfortable stay without putting a strain on your wallet. We have picked out the best budget hotels in Bangalore for your next stay in the Garden City.

Bangalore, the beautiful Garden City

Hotel Empire

Located on Central Street, just off Infantry Road, Hotel Empire is a nice, budget hotel in Bangalore. It is located at a walking distance from the major commercial areas of M G Road and Brigade Road. The hotel chain has two other properties – in Shivajinagar and in Koramangala – so you can choose a location that is most convenient to you. The hotel staff is friendly and will make sure you have a comfortable stay. Their kitchen is open till late, so ordering in food even at 2 AM would not be a problem! Don’t forget to try out their special chicken kebabs and biryani.

Sherwood Suites

Not too far from the IT hub of Whitefield is Sherwood Suites, a serviced apartment complex, which is just right for your budget business trip to Bangalore, especially if you plan on a slightly longer stay and don’t wish to splurge on accommodation. The suites have all the modern amenities as well as 24X7 housekeeping facilities. Complimentary buffet breakfast is included. Their kitchen serves delicious, freshly prepared food and there is also a dining hall, a coffee shop and two party lounges.

Trinity Suites

Trinity Suites are boutique serviced apartments located at the Trinity Circle on Bangalore’s high street, MG Road. Since it’s close to the army grounds, the rooms are quiet, despite the proximity to the bustling commercial areas nearby. The corporate office hubs of Richmond Road, CMH Road and Indranagar are close by, as are the shopping areas of M G Road, Brigade Road and Commercial Street. You can avail great discounts if you opt for a longer stay. The rooms are large and tastefully furnished; laundry services are available and breakfast is complimentary.

Hotel Bangalore Gate

If you’re looking for budget hotels near Bangalore railway station, Hotel Bangalore Gate would be your best bet. Merely one kilometre from the City Railway Station, the hotel is located on Kempe Gowda Road. It’s an ideal location for a short stay close to the city centre. The rooms have been recently renovated and are well-appointed. The staff is warm and professional; there’s a restaurant on the ground floor serving vegetarian food and you can use their high speed Wi-Fi free of cost.

Enjoy delicious South Indian food in Bangalore

Pai Comforts, J P Nagar

Another good budget hotel in Bangalore is Pai Comforts at J P Nagar. A part of the Pai group, this 2-star hotel offers multiple packages, including a day use room as well as long stay packages. The rooms are spacious and come with all the amenities you’d expect in a business hotel. The vegetarian restaurant, Princess, serves an excellent South Indian thali. The hotel has a rooftop banquet hall that is ideal for conferences. Complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the premises is also available.

Planning a trip to Bangalore? Book flights and trains only on MakeMyTrip.com and also avail great last minute deals on hotels!

Experience Tribal Culture at the Lokranjan Festival in Khajuraho

2013-05-19T04:30:02Z

Come December and there are so many cultural festivals in India that it is really hard to pick just one! The Lokranjan Festival in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh is one such not-to-be-missed festival. A tribal and folk dance festival, Lokranjan is organised by the Adivasi Lok Kala Academy along with the state tourist department. In 2013, the festival will be held between December 8^th and 12^th. Tickets for the festival are available from the Madhya Pradesh Tourist Department’s office in Khajuraho. The festival is extremely popular, so be sure to get your tickets in advance.

One of the many beautiful temples in Khajuraho

Celebrating Tribal Dance Forms

One of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, Khajuraho has become famous as the land of Kamasutra due to its medieval Hindu and Jain temples depicting erotic sculptures. But this sleepy town is so much more than that. It hosts the Lokranjan Festival annually, which is a celebration of the various tribal and folk dances of Madhya Pradesh. The festival is a big draw for dance enthusiasts and tourists alike. It is a platform for various tribes from the state to showcase their unique dance forms. The dance takes place amidst the remarkable temples of Khajuraho and juxtaposed with the temple sculptures, it’s truly a treat for the senses. The festival also makes an effort to preserve the Indian cultural heritage and several of its dying art forms. For the five days of the festival, this ancient town comes alive with music and dance.

A temple in Khajuraho depicting erotic sculptures

Where to Stay

If you are visiting Khajuraho, there are several hotels for you to choose from. For a luxurious stay, look no further than The Lalit Temple View. As the name suggests, the hotel is a short walk (1 kilometre) from the temple, which is the venue of the Lokranjan Festival. Hotel Usha Bundela is a good mid-range option, about 1.2 kilometres from the venue. For the budget traveller, Hotel Lakeside is a great place to stay at and is practically next door to the venue. MakeMyTrip offers great last minute deals on hotels so check these out before you book your stay.

Getting There

Khajuraho airport is well-connected and operates direct flights to many parts of the country. The airport is 4.5 kilometres from the temple site. A prepaid taxi will bring you to the venue. If you’re arriving by train, the railway station is about 8 kilometres away and a bus or taxi will get you to the venue. Apart from the temples of Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh has many other attractions to offer. The national parks of Bandhavgarh, Kanha and Pench make great detours. Bandhavgarh has a large number of big cats and you have a high probability of sighting a tiger here. The national park is 232 kilometres from Khajuraho and easily accessible by road.

Also visit one of the national parks in Madhya Pradesh including Bandhavgarh and Pench

So get ready to witness the unique and fascinating tribal dance forms of Madhya Pradesh at the Lokranjan Festival this year. Book flights and trains to Khajuraho only on MakeMyTrip.com!

Pune’s Enchanting Drum Beats

2013-05-18T06:30:24Z

Every year, for three days, Pune reverberates with rhythmic drumbeats during India’s first and only drum festival – Damru. The annual festival, started in 2011, attracts maestros such as Pandit Kumar Bose, Pandit Anindo Chatterjee, Pandit Bickram Ghosh and Sivamani, to name a few. More than 25,000 drumming enthusiasts attended the first two editions of the festival. In 2013, the festival is scheduled to be held in December, though the dates and venue are yet to be decided.

WHAT DO CRICKETERS DO WHEN NOT PLAYING?

2013-05-17T09:03:00Z

You’ve only seen them batting, bowling, fielding and more recently, showcasing some Gangnam style dance moves during the IPL 2013 matches. Chris Gayle is a pro at it! Of course, cricket is their first love, but what is it that keeps these cricketers busy when they are not playing the gentleman’s game? Here’s bringing to you the other side of 5 of my favourite cricket devtas who are extremely passionate, both on and off the field.

Florence’s Tribute to Indian Cinema: River to River 2013

2013-05-17T08:00:20Z

River to River Florence Indian Film Festival 2013 is an international event scheduled to take place in Florence, Italy this November. Dedicated completely to movies from and about India, the festival is in its 13th year and has gained immense popularity over the last decade. The festival brings to the beautiful city of Florence, India’s rich culture of movies and art. Even the name of the festival symbolises a cultural journey from India’s river Ganges to Italy’s river Arno.

Assam Celebrates Harvest with Rice Beer

2013-05-17T04:30:38Z

The largest of the 7 Sister States of Northeast India, Assam is one of the most loved places by tourists. The sprawling tea-estates, patches of paddy fields and an endless Brahmaputra paint the landscape of Assam in the most beautiful hues. The land of the one-horned rhinoceros and elephants, Assam is the cradle of nature and a ‘hot’ holiday spot. Along with rich biodiversity, the beautiful valleys of Assam are also known to preserve some of the oldest and most varied traditions of the delta. The vibrant Assamese culture has several similarities to Bengali culture. Also surrounded by the rest of the Northeast states, Assam enjoys an infusion of their cultures too. Take for example, East Assam where every December the Rengma Nagas come together to celebrate the end of the agriculture season during the Nyada Festival. Marked with rituals and prayers to the ancestors, this tribal festival is an important part of the lives of the people who whose livelihoods depend on agriculture primarily.

How Safe is Kashmir for Tourists?

2013-05-16T09:54:00Z

“Idhar tourist log ko koi choo bhi nahi sakta” (No one can even lay a finger on a tourist here) These were the first words our driver uttered after we exchanged courtesies outside the airport and were now comfortably seated in a Tavera. Why? Because till this moment, my wife had asked him thrice about safety in Kashmir. We landed in Kashmir the same week the unfortunate skirmish between terrorists and CRPF soldiers took place. For a valley that jostles with characters like Jehadis, extremists, trespassers, locals, migrants, men from CRPF, BSF, BRO, and of course tourists, disturbance is clearly a euphemistic term.

Grab a Bite at Snack Tec Ahmedabad 2013

2013-05-16T04:30:41Z

Just back from a trip to Gujarat, I have fond memories of this vibrant state in Western India. Ornate temples, beautiful roads, old banyan trees, sandy beaches, amiable people and the Gir forests, were all wonderful to see. But what I can’t seem to take off my mind is Gujarati food! Sweet, spicy and tangy, the flavours in a Gujarati thali are rich and distinct. In just four days I managed to relish dozens of delectable preparations made of just one key ingredient - besan or gram flour. Now, that’s variety! There was dhokla with sweet and tangy curry, thepla, the standard Gujarati breakfast fafda and jalebi, khandavi (smooth besan rolls that simply melt in your mouth), bhajia, pakodas, accompanied with too many lip-smacking chutneys and yummy aamras (a mango smoothie). Even during our road trips, we did not have to buy a bag of chips because Gujratis never travel without their delicious snacks! Mixtures of peanuts, rice puffs, dried spices, raw mango; not just a delight to the taste buds but good for health too.

Thepla, one of the many comfort foods of Gujarat

All those who have had the chance to relish a Gujarati meal will agree that food is definitely one of the biggest assets of this state. How I wish one could relish these flavours in just any part of the world! And there, we have Ahmedabad Sweet and Snack Tec, calling all restaurateurs and chefs from all over the world to be a part of this international conference on packaging and preserving food items. Gujarat was also one of the first places in the world to develop preservation techniques with salt. It is therefore befitting that India’s largest fair dedicated to the preservation and packaging of snacks, sweets and confectionery items, Ahmedabad Sweet and Snack Tec, is held here. Ahmedabad Sweet and Snack Tec is the leading international exhibition that is held annually and this year the dates of the event are December 10-12, 2013.

The mouthwatering dhokla, another one of Gujarat's most popular dishes

Covering the major areas in sweet, snack and confectionery industry, the exhibition is an excellent business opportunity for local brands to put forth their business ideas related to packaging and processing. The key areas that the exhibits shall cover are refrigeration, quality management, processing techniques and distribution. Whether you are looking for clients, new equipments and supplies for your business or just promoting your ideas, this event is the place to be. The venue of the event is Gujarat University, Convention and Exhibition Centre in Ahmedabad. This three-day long conference attracts exhibitioners and visitors from all over the world and the average footfall this year is estimated to be around 10,000.

MakeMyTrip offers cheap flights to Ahmedabad and several hotel deals that will make your trip not just comfortable but easy on the pocket too.

Your Guide to a Trip to Maldives

2013-05-15T06:47:13Z

Picture this: beautiful coral islands, cobalt blue waters, and white sandy beaches-that’s Maldives for you! The intriguing island nation is located 400 kilometres south-west of the Indian subcontinent, and boasts of an exciting mix of landscapes, cultures and cuisines. Regarded as one the world’s best beaches right across the border of India, it is a haven for honeymooners, beach bums and divers. An archipelago of over 1,000 islands, strategically located in the Indian Ocean, this year-round destination boasts of one of the world’s top diving and snorkelling experiences.

Mumbai Games: Ab Mumbai Khelega

2013-05-15T04:30:01Z

This January, Mumbai organised the first Mumbai Games. People played, exercised and got together for immense fun in various sports grounds and complexes throughout the city. ‘Ab Mumbai Khelega’ seemed to be the latest slogan on everyone’s lips and they marched to the sports grounds with their Mumbai Games bibs on. An amazing concept to bring the community together and encourage sports and good lifestyle amongst Mumbaikars, the Mumbai Games were evidently a huge success and are expected to hit the city soon. If you are living in Mumbai too, do not miss this sports extravaganza this time.

Can I experience altitude sickness in Bhutan?

2013-05-15T04:16:17Z

Nestled on the edge of a precariously high cliff, the iconic Taktsang Goemba (monastery) is the unofficial symbol of Bhutan

When travelling to high altitude destinations, altitude sickness is almost always a common concern. Having said that, travelers to Bhutan have nothing to fear since most valleys are under 2500 metres and majority of the tourist spots lie below 3000 metres. The maximum elevation one can reach by road is 3800 metres, a one and a half hour drive from Paro town, and is popularly known as Che le la Pass. The only time when you can experience altitude sickness is when you are trekking. Unlike Ladakh, where it takes a much longer time to get acclimatized, Bhutan is like any other hill station in India, with 70% forest area and breathtaking landscape, especially the rice fields and rivers flowing in every town. However, as a word of advice avoid trekking and climbing on the first day and carry medication as a precaution.

By Nishant Jain

Discovering India & The World: Mahabalipuram

2013-05-14T04:33:00Z

Just 60 kilometres from Chennai, Mahabalipuram does full justice to its UNESCO World Heritage site title courtesy the magnificent line of ancient stone carvings that both impress and intrigue. With its historical monuments, architectural stories, mysterious caves, cycling tours, beach side shopping, ayurveda massages and delicious seafood, the place packs in the punch of a great holiday destination.

One Rock Wonders

Intriguing monuments in rock

Mahabalipuram is known for its monolithic rock structures - monuments and temples - each carved out of one rock! Legend is that artisans would sit on top of a rock and carve out a temple from top to bottom unlike the conventional practice where the top is built at the end. Arjuna’s Penance, Mahishasurmardini Cave temple, Adhivarha Cave Temple, Tiger’s Cave, Pancha Ratha and the Shore temple are some of the famous monuments that should not be missed. Every one of these comes with an awe-inspiring tale that adds to the experience of being there. However, the Shore temple stands out with its brilliant Pallava architecture and masterful carvings, although most of it has gradually eroded away.

Legend of the Shore Temple

The magnificent Shore templeDating back to the 7^th century, the Shore Temple of Mahabalipuram is the oldest rock-cut wonder to reckon with. Making it even more unique is the fact that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu reside here together. In fact, it is the only temple in India where Lord Vishnu is found reclining on the floor enjoying the sea waves. All other temples have Lord Vishnu in a standing position.

The layout of the temple is patterned after the perfect cosmic body. It was believed that Shore temple is one of the seven temples that were built along the coastline but it was just a story until 2004 Tsunami unearthed remanants of sister structures that are now being dug up by archaeologists.

A huge rock wall protects the Shore Temple from further erosion. Don’t miss the temple in the evenings when floodlights bring back its grandeur full force!

Travel Tip

With every January comes the month long Mammallapuram Dance Festival set against the enchanting backdrop of the monuments here. Be there to experience an enthralling journey in to history, architecture and culture.

By Gitanjali Banerjee

Conference on Chromosomal Genetics and Evolution and More in Bangkok

2013-05-14T04:30:49Z

Bangkok, the glitzy city in the heart of Thailand has for long enjoyed immense tourist attraction from all over the world. Be it street shopping in Chinatown or finding the perfect international label at the flamboyant malls; coming face to face with nature or enjoying a die-hard party at a bar, Bangkok has never disappointed. Even in the business sphere, Bangkok is giving cut throat competition to other Southeast Asian cities like Macau and Singapore.

The dazzling city of Bangkok

The Conference

This December, Bangkok plays host to scholars and researchers from all over the world who come to attend the extremely informative and important International Conference on Chromosomal Genetics and Evolution. An unparalleled platform for researchers, scientists and scholars to discuss the latest findings of the researches and to dwell over the challenges in the sector, the conference will organise paper presentations, posters, short courses and other informative competitions during the two days of the event, which are 24^th and 25^th December, 2013. Some of the important issues of discussion will be speciation mechanism, computational genetics, chromatin dynamics and plant breeding. This conference is an excellent opportunity for biotechnology students and those in the field of genetics to be a part of the latest discussions in this field and to also share their own work.

The Conference is an excellent platform for scientists to discuss the latest in the field of Chromosomal Genetics

The Venue

The venue of the conference is the splendid, Amari Watergate, Bangkok. Furnished with state-of-the-art style, decor and facilities, this hotel is where the crème de la crème of the society stay. The hotel is centrally located, with the famous Siam Square just five minutes away. The airport is around 40 kilometres from the hotel. With lavish dining options, pool side bars, a multitude of recreational activities, the hotel offers a luxury stay, in one of the most luxurious cities of the world. Make your bookings at this marvellous hotel with MakeMyTrip well in advance. If you are in no mood for splurging on accommodation, do not fret. Bangkok has no dearth of comfortable hotels for every budget type and with MakeMyTrip, the choices are simply unlimited!

Exploring Thailand

After two days at the conference, do take out time to unwind in and explore Thailand. Start off your Bangkok holiday and begin with sightseeing and explore both the enchanting ancient Buddhist temples and the crowning, sleek skyscrapers. Also club your holiday with other tourist cities like Pattaya and Phuket and lose yourself to the marvels of nature. As the sun sets, get ready for unlimited partying at the several bars and even beaches. Food? Satiate your longing for sea food in Thailand, one of the leading exporters of quality sea food in the world.

Ancient temples and skyscrapers; Bangkok is where heritage meets modernity

Go as an attendee to the International Conference on Chromosomal Genetics and Evolution and come back rested, rejuvenated and with happy Memories Unlimited of Bangkok.

Hemis Festival: Yet another Reason to Visit Ladakh

2013-05-13T11:09:32Z

Ladakh, with its windswept beauty and incredible vistas, is in itself a “must see” destination for the traveler with even an iota, or more, of the love of nature and its wonders. And there couldn’t be a better time than the month of June to visit Ladakh. Why? Because it is the month with pleasant weather and the long days, perfect for sightseeing.