Fringed with gurgling rivers, evergreen forests and fascinating hills, Mahabaleshwar is a magnificent hill station in Maharashtra and among the top monsoon destinations in India. This pristine hill station is known for its numerous tourist attractions and viewpoints that offer spectacular views of valleys and hills all around. Besides, there are also some stunning beaches that can be visited as a day trip along with this charming hill station. The picturesque view of turquoise waters lapping over the passive shores and breathtaking view of the sun setting below the horizon will take away all the stress and rejuvenate you.

Here are the 5 awesome beaches that can be visited along with Mahabaleshwar.

Harihareshwar Beach

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Surrounded by Harshinachal, Harihareshwar, Brahmadri and Pushpadri Hills, Harihareshwar Beach is a pristine beach situated on the Konkan coast of Maharashtra. This is one of the unspoiled beaches in Maharashtra and among the best beaches near Mahabaleshwar. Actually, Harihareshwar has two beaches – one is situated in front of Harihareshwar Temple, and the other beach is near MTDC Resort. This clean black sandy beach is relatively less crowded and can be visited as part of Mahabaleshwar Tour Packages. The sea here is always turbulent and the coast is rocky. Harihareshwar is also popular pilgrimage center in Maharashtra as it home to the ancient Harihareshwar Temple.

Diveagar Beach

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Diveagar Beach is a splendid beach on the shores of Arabian Sea in the Konkan coast of Maharashtra. This is one of the popular beaches in Maharashtra and among the top places to visit in Mahabaleshwar. Lined with palm and casuarina trees, Diveagar Beach stretches about 6 km long with white sand and crystal clear waters. The beach is perfect place for swimming, sun bathing and surfing. An evening stroll along the beach is particularly a relaxing experience with the light coastal breeze blowing by. The beach also has a sanctuary to the migratory Seagulls at one end.

Anjarle Beach

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Anjarle Beach is a beautiful and unspoilt white sand beach on the Coast of Arabian Sea in Maharashtra. It is one of the finest beaches in the Konkan region and also a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai. Situated near the estuary of River Jog, Anjarle Beach is about 2 km long and is surrounded by endless rows of coconut palms. The smooth coastline, the blue waters and the white sand create a pristine feel to the place and the ambience is perfect for a family weekend getaway. Kadyawarcha Ganapati Temple is another prime attraction in Anjarle along with the pristine Anjarle beach.

Kelshi Beach

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Located at the northern most part of Ratnagiri district, Kelshi Beach is a beautiful beach on the Western Coast of India. This secluded beach stretches for about 2.5 km across the Bankot creek. This calm and peaceful beach is an ideal place for people looking for a short beach getaway from the pristine hill station of Mahabaleshwar. With the Utambar hill meeting the sea at this location, Kelshi Beach is the perfect place to spend a relaxing evening while watching a spectacular sunset. The charming little village of Kelshi is also home to a well-known pilgrimage places like Mahalakshmi Temple and Yakub Baba dargah.

Guhagar Beach

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Guhagar Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in Maharashtra and is also the place where Vashishti River empties into Arabian Sea. Dotted with thick suru plantations and white sand, the beach extends for almost 6 km between two hillocks. The endless expanse of this virgin beach offers an unforgettable vibe of serenity along with the mesmerizing beauty of the Konkan coast. Guhagar Beach is noted for swimming, sunbathing, breathtaking sunset scenes, as well as its tranquil surroundings.

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With widespread rains in the coastal region and southern area, the much-awaited southwest monsoon has finally set in Karnataka. These monsoon rains brings the magic with lush green nature, flower carpet on the hills, stunning waterfalls and overflowing rivers. Nestled amidst the dense Western Ghats of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is one of those places that are blessed with lots of attractions which comes alive in monsoon. Here are the top 4 reasons to visit Chikmagalur during rainy season.

Scenic Drive through Western Ghats

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The rains in the Western Ghats create magic all around with green carpeted hills and beautiful cascades. Nothing can be more pleasurable than driving in monsoon in Western Ghats region of Chikmagalur when nature is at its best. The Charmadi Ghat near Chikmagalur is one of the beautiful monsoon scenic drives through Western Ghats as it is dotted with numerous waterfalls with few of them located right next to the highway. The real beauty of Charmadi Ghat lies in its countless spontaneous waterfalls cascading down the green hills in full flow during rainy season. From the top of the Ghat, one can get some stunning views of green hills blanketed in thick covers of mist and fog that leave you spellbound for few moments.

Gorgeous Waterfalls

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Positioned at the foothills of Mullayangiri range, Chikmagalur is an enchanting monsoon destination with full of scenic surprises like misty hills, hidden valleys, meandering streams and snow-white coffee blossoms. Besides, this pristine hill town also known for some spectacular waterfalls that spring to life during the monsoon season. Manikyadhara Falls, Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls and Honnamana Falls are the popular waterfalls in Chikmagalur. The thunderous sound of the gush of the water amidst dense forests will certainly refresh the mind and body.

Mist Clad Peaks & Valleys

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Chikmagalur is famous for its tall mountains and green valleys. Baba Budangiri, Mullayangiri and Kudremukh are the well-known mountain peaks in Western Ghat region of Karnataka. Standing at 6316 feet, Mullayangiri, Karnataka’s highest peak, is located in Chikmagalur and is among the top places to visit in Chikmagalur. During monsoon, these peaks are covered with mist and extremely green terrain around. It is an absolute delight for nature lovers as it has amazing trekking trails, among the best in the country. From the top, visitors have blessed with some astonishing views of nature in the form of hidden valleys, winding rivers and green meadows.

Expansive Lakes & Rivers

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Besides its highest peaks, gushing waterfalls and lush coffee plantations, Chikmagalur is also known for its numerous lakes and rivers. Ayyankere Lake, Hirekolale Lake, Yagachi River & Dam and Bhadra Reservoir are some popular water bodies in and around Chikmagalur which can be visited as part of Chikmagalur Tour Packages during monsoon as they look fresh and rejuvenated. Surrounded by high mountains and thick coffee plantations, Hirekolale Lake is a beautiful manmade lake and is one of those places where you can park your car and enjoy nature. One can also spend some peaceful time at Ayyanakere Lake, second largest lake in Karnataka or try some water sport activities at Yagachi Dam.

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The Konkan Region is a rugged section of western coastline of India which comprises of the coastal areas of Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka. Influenced by the traditions and culture of these three states, Konkan region has some of the best seafood recipes of India and has become one of the most popular cuisines of the recent times. Seafood like prawns, crabs and fish, coconut and local spices are some of the main ingredients used in Konkan recipes. Though Konkani food is closely associated with fish, the vegetarian version is also equally delicious. So, what are you waiting for, check the list of 10 best Konkani delicacies here that you should definitely try while visiting this region as part of Konkan Tour Packages.

Sol Kadi

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Famous throughout the Konkan region, Sol Kadi is a refreshing Konkani drink usually eaten with rice or sometimes served as a drink after meals. Also known as Aamsol, Sol Kadi is made from coconut milk and kokum. It is popular in the Konkan region of India especially in Goa as Goans drink Sol Kadhi at the end of every meal, like we South Indians drink buttermilk. This is used as a refreshing drink as it cools down the digestive system after eating spicy food and is a real saver during hot Indian summers. Besides, it also acts as an anti-carcinogenic and anti-ageing agent. You must try this refreshing Sol Kadi while your Goa Trip.

Konkani Fish Fry

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Boasts of 720 km long coastline, Konkan region is a paradise for sea food lovers. With its incredible aromas, tastes and textures, the authentic Konkani Cuisine would really appease one’s gastronomic desires. The Konkani Style Fish Fry is one such delicacy that one must try in Konkan coast of Maharashtra. The Konkani Fish Fry is a delicious, crunchy preparation usually made with mackerel or pomfret which is cooked in spicy masala made with red chilies, cloves, coriander seeds, pepper corns, cumin seeds, garlic, fennel seeds and lemon juice. Due to frying with sensational masala, it is very tasty and goes well with a bowl of rice and some lentil curry. So, don’t forget to taste this awesome dish while enjoying holidays as part of Maharashtra Tour Packages.

Goan Sorpotel

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Sorpotel is an Indian pork curry that is wonderfully tangy and spicy at the same time. Influenced by Portuguese, Sorpotel is now cooked in the Konkan region of India. Popular among Catholic households of Goa, Sorpotel is generally made using pork and also some internal organs like blood, liver, heart and tongue. The meat is cooked with lots of red chillies, spices and vinegar. The curry only tastes better after three to four days. Though originally intended to be made solely on the occasion of Christmas, it often appears at weddings and other festivities today. This dish is served with sannas, bread and plan rice.

Patholi

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Patholi or Patoli is a sweet dish mostly prepared on the Konkan Coast of India especially in Mangalore during Gowri Pooja, Ganesh Chaturthi and Naga Panchami festivals. Patholi is made of rice, grated coconut and jaggery which are steamed in turmeric leaves. The turmeric leaves add their heavenly fragrance and flavour to these rice dumplings. The sweet, inner coconut filling makes these rice dumplings absolutely delicious. Patholi are usually served as dessert during lunch or dinner.

Chicken Xacuti

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Chicken Xacuti is a classic and popular Goan recipe which encompasses rich flavors. Xacuti is actually pronounced as Shakuti derived from the Portuguese word Chacuti. It is a unique dish that consists of Kashmiri red chilies, poppy seeds, coconut, onion, cinnamon, tamarind and nutmeg. A wonderful blend of spices and coconut gives this curry a unique taste and rich aroma. This Shakuti curry tastes good with any kind of bread or even with steamed rice.

Bharli Vangi

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Bharli Vangi or Bhareli Vangi is a popular and traditional Maharashtrian dish. Literally translates to stuffed eggplants or stuffed brinjals, Bharli Vangi is a top ranked menu item for many functions and weddings in Maharashtra. This vegetarian recipe is extremely popular among the Marathi folks for its deep and robust flavors. In which baby eggplants or brinjals stuffed with the spicy mixture of sesame, dry coconut, & groundnuts. Usually this curry is served with roti, jowar roti or even with plain rice.

Shark Ambotik

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Ambotik is a lip smacking Portuguese influenced dish from Goa which will tickle your taste buds. In local language, Ambot’ means sour and ‘tik’ means spicy. This popular Goan dish is usually made with shark fish which is cooked with lots of local masalas, tamarind and red chillies. It tastes awesome with plain rice, appams, and sannas or even better with Goan pav. One can try this in restaurants, beach shacks in Goa.

Konkani Kurle Ambat

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Being a Coastal Region, Konkan area has no dearth of seafood, be it fish or crab or oysters and also has its own unique way to cook seafood delicacies. Kurle Ambat is a mild spiced crab curry which is very popular in Mangalore and Goa. This popular Konkani recipe is prepared by cooking crabs in a paste of roasted spice and freshly ground coconut. The careful balance of spices and the sweet taste from coconut milk makes this crab curry a lip-smacking dish and is served with rice or roti. One can try this awesome and less spicy dish while visiting this region as part of Mangalore Tour Packages.

Khatkhate

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Khatkhate is a delectable Konkani mixed vegetable curry and is common in almost all Konkani houses. It is a spiced vegetable stew/ gravy prepared with at least five seasonal vegetables, grated coconut, jaggery, kokum, triphala and some spices. Of these, triphala is the main ingredient of this recipe, which is a small fruit having particular aroma which enhances the flavor of this dish. It is very healthy and usually prepared for weddings, pujas, and other occasions. It is best eaten with plain rice and roti.

Clams Gravy

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Having legendary hospitality, the Maharashtrian cuisine has subtle variety and strong flavors. Wheat, rice, jowar, vegetables, and lentils are the important components of Maharashtrian diet. Seafood delicacies prepared from fish, crab, prawns and clams are so popular in coastal Maharashtra. Clams Gravy is one such lip-smacking dish of coastal Maharashtra especially Mumbai, in which clams are cooked in spicy gravy. This coconut based flavourful gravy is sure a delight and goes well with steamed rice, chapati or bhakri. One must try this delicacy while enjoying your beach holidays as part of Mumbai Tour Packages.

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Located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore is an island city-state in Southeast Asia.  Singapore is one of the most prosperous city states in the world and among the best tourist places to visit in Southeast Asia. Arguably the most expensive city in the world, this small island city-state has certain sheen of wealth in the form of high-end shopping malls, luxury hotels, and fine dining. Besides, Singapore also boasts an array of attractions like nature reserves, riverside quays, marine parks, nightlife, and more. Here is the list of 16 most popular tourist places which can be visit as part of Singapore Tour Packages that solace a restless mind and a wandering soul.

Merlion Park

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Located at One Fullerton, Merlion Park is one of the Singapore major tourist attractions as it houses the Merlion statue, the tourism icon of Singapore. The Merlion is a mythical creature with a lion’s head and the body of a fish that represents the city’s humble origin as a fishing village. Spouting water from its mouth, this iconic statue has a height of 28 feet and weighs 70 tonnes.  The park also houses a smaller Merlion statue known as ‘Merlion cub’ which stands at 2 meters tall and weighs three tonnes. Though there are 7 approved Merlion statues in Singapore, the original sculpture is the one in the Merlion Park.  There is a viewing deck from where one can enjoy breathtaking views of the Merlion against the city skyline and the scenic Marina Bay.

Marina Bay Sands

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An extraordinary feat of engineering and an architectural marvel, Marina Bay Sands is a resort complex in Singapore. This is the most expensive building at the time of its construction in 2010 and is now one of the top places to visit in Singapore as part of Singapore Tour. Designed by Moshe Safdie, the structure fascinates with its three sloping towers rising 200 m from the ground and linked at the top by the boat shaped SkyPark Hotel. Besides, this integrated park contains ArtScience Museum, a mall with a canal running through it, restaurants, theater, skating rink, a public observation deck and an infinity pool. Though the access to infinity pool remains only with the hotel guests, the observation desk is open for all. From the observation deck, visitors can get a bird’s eye view of the city’s impressive skyline.

Most Popular Singapore Tours

Gardens by the Bay

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Gardens by the Bay is a beautiful man-made garden that encompasses an area of about 250 acres of reclaimed land near Marina Bay Sands in central Singapore. This mechanical garden is an icon of Singapore Tourism and is the must include in Singapore Packages. It comprises three distinctive waterfront gardens namely, Bay Central Garden, Bay East Garden and Bay South Garden. Sprawling over an area of 130 acres, Bay South is the largest of the three gardens which showcases the best of tropical horticulture which includes Supertrees. Bay East is the second largest garden which offers a stunning view of the Singapore skyline. Bay Central is a garden with a waterfront walk that will eventually connect the other two gardens.

Besides, the park also has two conservatories, the Cloud Dome and the Forest Dome which houses an exceptional variety of flora right from the tropical rainforest species to the arid deserts. Every day, a light and sound show is organized underneath the Giant Supertrees that is worth to see. Though, the outer gardens are free for all but one need to buy tickets for visiting the different conservatories or the Skywalk.

Jurong Bird Park

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Jurong Bird Park is a giant aviary situated on the western slope of Jurong Hill in Singapore. Spread across 49 acres, Jurong Bird Park is Asia’s largest bird park and among the most popular Singapore Tourist Places. This sprawling park is home to over 5,000 birds ranging across 400 species housed in various habitats. Bird life from across the world can be seen in the park including golden breasted starling, flamingoes, turacos, hoopoe, ostriches, emus, lories, lorikeets, penguins, owls, and pelicans. The park boasts of the world’s largest walk-in aviaries where one can enjoy a close view of African birds. The Jurong Bird Park also organizes educational and entertaining bird shows throughout the day like The High Flyers, The Kings of the Skies, and Lunch with the Parrots.

Singapore Flyer

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Promoted as an observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer is a giant Ferris wheel located in the heart of downtown Marina Bay. With a height of 165 m, the Singapore Flyer is the world’s second largest Ferris wheel and Asia’s largest observation wheel. It has 28 fully air-conditioned capsules and can accommodate a group of 25 people each.  The ride lasts about 30 minutes which offers 360-degree of Singapore including the iconic sights of the Merlion statue, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Sands etc. Although the best time to experience the Singapore Flyer is after sunset, visitors can also get some panoramic views during the day.

Universal Studios Singapore

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Recognized worldwide, Universal Studios is a Theme Park located in the Singapore’s ever thrilling destination Sentosa Island. Occupies nearly 49 acres, it is the first ever Hollywood movie-themed park in Southeast Asia and among the best places to visit in Singapore with kids. This amusement park is home to seven themed zones like Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, Lost World, Far Far Away and Madagascar. Besides, it also features 24 rides and live shows throughout the day and night that promise thrill, lots of laughter and memories to cherish for a long time.

Singapore Night Safari

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Situated next to the Singapore Zoo, the Singapore Night Safari is the world’s first safari park for nocturnal animals which was opened in 1994. The park covers an area of 86 acres and is home to more than 2500 animals of 130 species. Of these, almost 40% come under the category of threatened. With 1.1 million visitors annually, this is one of the most famous tourist places in Singapore. The park is divided into four sections namely the Leopard Trail, the Fishing Cat Trail, East Lodge Trail and the Wallaby Trail. The nocturnal park is famous for its unique way of exhibiting the animals includes invisible glass walls, wet and dry moats. One can explore the park on the trams or taking a walk on one of the four walking under the artificial moonlight. Besides animal sightseeing, there are many shows organized during the Night Safari. The Singapore Night Safari is a lifetime memorable thing and can be experienced as part of Singapore – Malaysia Tour Packages.

Chinatown

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A Singapore Trip is mere incomplete if you haven’t been to Chinatown as it is a delightful blend of history, culture, modern cafes and stores. Earlier the residential area for several Chinese immigrants, the Singapore’s Chinatown is now proud of its heritage, and has so much on display.  This place also has impressive Sri Mariamman Hindu temple, the first and foremost temple of Singapore named- Thian Hock Keng Temple and Buddha Tooth Relic temple. Designed after Tang Dynasty architecture, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is a major tourist place in Chinatown. The Giant Stupa, in which the Buddha Tooth Relic is perched, weighs 3.5 tons and is made with 320 kg of pure gold, is located in the 4th floor of the temple. There is also a museum in the complex which houses various artifacts of Lord Buddha such as his Tongue and Bone Remnants. Besides, there are several eateries serving a variety of Chinese food at pocket friendly prices.

Sentosa Island

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Whether you want a thrilling experience or really craving some fun in the sun, Sentosa Island is the place for you. Sentosa Island is a man-made island just off the southern end of Singapore and can be reached by means of a scenic ride on a cable car. Sentosa Island is home to some of the major attractions of Singapore namely the Resorts World, the entertaining Universal Studios Singapore, Tiger Sky Tower, Butterfly & Insect Kingdom, Sentosa Merlion and SEA Aquarium. Besides, Sentosa Island is also home to 3.2 km long Siloso Beach, Madame Tussauds Singapore and Fort Siloso along with many outdoor facilities. Don’t miss the show named “The Wings of Time’ in the evening, which is a multimedia performance with pyrotechnics displays, water fountains, and laser projectors.

Little India

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Little India, the center of life for Singapore’s Indian community, is a buzzing neighborhood located opposite to Chinatown along the east bank of Singapore River. Commonly known as Tikka by the locals, a walk in the streets of Singapore’s Little India is sure to awaken all your senses as it is fitted with multi-coloured shop-houses, historical temples along with cozy cafes. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Sri Srinivasa Perumal temple, Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, Tekka Center, Little India are the top places to visit in Little India. Besides, Little India is also known for Indian cuisines. Diwali is the best time to visit this area when the streets light up with eye-catching colourful lights.

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After 12 long years, the most awaiting Neelakurinji Flowers are finally set to bloom in coming August 2018 and will lasts till October 2018. The last bloom of Neelakurinji flowers took place in the year 2006. During the blooming season, the green carpeted hills and valleys of Munnar turned into a dreamy shade of blue which will attracts thousands of tourists from all over the globe. If you are planning to visit Kerala then this is the best time to witness the Neelakurinji flowering in Munnar as part of Kerala Tour Packages.

About Neelakurinji

Locally known as Kurinji Poo, Neelakurinji is one of the most striking flower which blooms once in 12 years. The prime attracting factor of the flower is its eye-soothing blue color. First studied by Christian Gottfried Daniel Nees von Esenbeck, the scientific name of the flower is Strobilanthes kunthianus, which comes from River Kunthi that irrigates the grasslands and valleys around.

Neelakurinji is a Malayalam word which simply means blue flower. Around 250 species belong to the genus Strobilanthes and almost 46 of them are found in India. Grows at an altitude of 1300 to 2400 m, Neelakurinji plants are found exclusively in the mountain slopes of the Nilgiri Mountain Range and the Shola Forests of the Western Ghats. The plant grows 30 to 60 cm high in normal conditions and up to 180 cm in amiable environmental conditions.

The Neelakurinji flowering season coincides with the spring season of Kerala. The Kurinji flowers start flowering in limited numbers in the last phase of monsoon and as the monsoon clouds slowly recede, the blue florets carpet the valleys, mountains, and grasslands. The peak blooming period would be in September and October. With no smell or any medicinal value, the Neelakurinji bloom in long intervals and covers the hilly terrains that provides the best opportunities for sightseeing.

Places to witness the Bloom

To witness the delightful Neelakurinji flowers in all its glory during this year, head to Munnar, the most popular hill station of Kerala. Often referred as ‘Kashmir of Kerala’, Munnar looks stunning when the Neelakurinji flowers blossoms which covers the hills in a hue of blue and purple that draws huge number of tourists.

Though the Kurinji flowers bloom gregariously at several places near Kodaikanal and Munnar but the biggest flowering can happen at the Eravikulam National Park, one of the top places to visit in Munnar. Other places where one can find the blossoms near Munnar are Kovilur, Kadavari and Rajamala.

How to Visit

If you are planning to visit Eravikulam during the Kurinji season as part of Munnar Tour Packages, it is ideal to book the park entry tickets and stay in advance as the flowering season is a much-anticipated tourism event in Kerala and the Government has already started promoting the event. The entry to Eravikulam National Park is limited to 3,500 visitors per day. Private vehicles are not allowed into the park while the Government operated shuttle services are available to go inside the national park.

Trawell.in offers several affordable Kerala Packages and Munnar Tours for a hassle free vacation. Our Packages includes accommodation and vehicle along with a detailed tour itinerary.

Nearby Attractions

Though the major attraction is going to be Neelakurinji Bloom 2018, there are plenty of other places in and around Munnar that are also worth a visit. The green meadows, cascading waterfalls and the misty hills make Munnar one of the most popular summer destinations in India and among the top Kerala Tourist Places. Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake, Top Station, Anamudi Peak, Devikulam, Nyayamkad falls, Peermedu, Thoovanam falls, and Attukal Waterfalls, are the top places to visit as part of Munnar Packages. Besides, Munnar is also known for its trekking trails and beautiful tea gardens.

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Perched on the Gulf coastline, Dubai is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This luxurious city sits in the middle of the Arabian Desert, surrounded on one side by dry sand and the beautiful Persian Gulf on other side. Dubai is the business hub of the Middle East and also the fourth most visited tourist destination in the world. It is famous for booming businesses, high-rising architectural wonders, palm shaped islands, captivating attractions and colorful nightlife. Always bustling with energy, the fascinating city of Dubai offers several exciting activities for visitors of all ages as part of Dubai Tour Packages. Here is the list of 15 top things to do in Dubai.

Go up the Burj Khalifa

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Standing 828 m high, Burj Khalifa is the most iconic and tallest building in the world from where one can get the mesmerizing views of the Dubai City. Comprising of 163 floors, this mega tower displaying neo-futuristic architecture with two observation decks at 124th & 148th floor. Situated on 148th floor at a soaring height of 555 m, At the Top Sky is currently the highest observation deck in the world and delivers stunning view of the Dubai city, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina. The place draws hundreds of people daily to marvel at the views from this observation deck and it is said that, a Dubai tour is not complete without a visit to the wonderful Burj Khalifa.

Step back in time at Al Bastakia

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Also known as the Al Fahidi Historic District of Dubai, Bastakia Quarter in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest and most picturesque heritage sites in Dubai. Situated along the Dubai Creek, this village was built in the late 19th century by Persian merchants due to its relaxed trade tariffs. This place gets its name from Bastak, Iran, the origin of many of the traders who first plied their trades. Tourists will notice ancient style of houses with wind towers, beautifully carved wooden doors and wooden lattices while walking on the narrow winding lanes of Al Bastakia village. Now, many of the houses are open to public in the form of Dubai Museum, Arabian Tea House, Majlis Gallery and Ostra.

Popular Dubai Tours

Light and Sound Show at Dubai Fountain

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Situated at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain features the largest choreographed fountain system in the world equipped with 6600 lights and 25 coloured projectors. Submerged within the 30-acre Burj Lake in front of Dubai Mall, it consists of five circles of different sizes and two arcs of jets. During the show, these powerful jets shoot water sprays to a height of up to 150 meters in the air with the soothing music of traditional Arabic or contemporary style.  The Dubai Fountain offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for its visitors completely free and is a must include in all Dubai Packages.

Take a safari in the Desert

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Desert Safari, among the most popular activities to do in Dubai, is a mix of adventure, cultural entertainment and sumptuous dinner under the stars. A desert safari in Dubai offers the chance to get a flavor of the old Bedouin lifestyle. This ultimate safari is synonym for the adventurous ride in Red Dunes of Dubai in a typical 4 wheel vehicle. Once in the desert, you can also get the opportunity to ride a camel, walk over desert sand, Sand boarding, put on Arabic attire, adorn your hands with traditional henna designs, and take pictures of falcon sitting on your shoulder. During night safari, visitors will get a chance to enjoy the live shows such as Live Belly Dance, Tanura Dance and Fire Show, along with finest Arabian cuisine.

Shop at the Dubai Mall

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Situated next to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping mall which covers more than 1 million square meters. The mall features around 1200 stores, two anchor department stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets. Shopaholics will rejoice at the Dubai Mall as it offers everything from makeup to home furniture and from branded to regular outfits. Besides, the Dubai Mall is the ultimate family entertainment destination as it is home to an indoor theme park, an ice rink, a huge indoor waterfall, a choreographed outdoor fountain and the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

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Want to discover the marvels of underwater in Dubai then Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo located in Dubai Mall is the best place for you during Dubai Tour. This is one of the most iconic attractions in Dubai and among the largest indoor aquariums in the World. It has won a Guinness World Record for the world’s “Largest Acrylic Panel”. The 10-million litre Dubai Aquarium tank houses over 33,000 aquatic animals of nearly 140 species. Over 300 Sharks and Rays live in this aquarium including the largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world. The Underwater Zoo, situated just above the Dubai Aquarium, is home to penguins, piranhas, crabs, water rats, seahorses, jellyfish and many more.

Visit Jumeirah Mosque

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Also known as ‘the two minaret mosque’, Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in the United Arab Emirates and the most photographed mosque in all of Dubai. Besides, this is only mosque in Dubai which is open to non-Muslims. Built in 1976, the Mosque was constructed in Fatimid style, with towering twin minarets framing a large central dome. The Sheikh Mohammad Centre for Cultural Understanding has been organizing Jumeirah Mosque tours for non-Muslims over the past ten years as part of its Open Doors, Open Minds policy, designed to bring different nationalities together.

Abra Ride on the Creek Cruise

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Besides Dubai’s glitz and glamour of sky-high towers, crossing the Dubai Creek by Abra is one among the popular things to do in Dubai. Dubai Creek is the natural seawater estuary from the Arabian Gulf that divides the city into two main sections – Deira and Bur Dubai. Originally facilitating trade with India and Africa, the creek has played a major role in the history of Dubai. This is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe settled & established the Al Maktoum dynasty in the city during 19th century. Though there are several ways to explore the creek, travel along the water in a traditional style abra is memorable.

Visit Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort

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If you are a history lover then Dubai Museum is the right place to visit in Dubai as it offers a glimpse of the Emirate’s history and traditional culture. The Dubai Museum is housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest existing building in the city. Al Fahidi Fort was served as the residence of the local rulers until 1896 and was converted into museum in 1971. The museum features galleries that recreate historic Arab houses, Mosques, Souks, date farms, desert and marine life. Besides, there is also the astronomy and natural phenomena wing along with a sea wing that takes the visitor on a breathtaking tour to get to know shipbuilding and the manufacture of shipping equipment, the profession of pearl diving and the marine life.

Skydiving in Dubai

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Are you looking for an adrenaline adventure experience in the city of Dubai? Then, experience the ultimate aerial adventure in Dubai, by taking a sky dive over a thousand feet above the ground. With world class facilities, stunning locations and expert instructors, Skydiving in Dubai become the most captivating attractions of the city. No Dubai Trip is complete without this thrilling expedition. During Skidive, one can get the prominent views of Ain Dubai, the Palm Jumeirah Island, Atlantis Hotel, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Marina. All skydiving operations in Dubai are managed by Skydive Dubai and this is an extremely weather dependent sport.

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Renowned as one of the gorgeous islands in the world, Bali is an island and province of Indonesia situated at the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands with Java to the west and Lombok to the east. The island is home to an ancient culture that makes the island different from other destinations. Exotic temples and palaces set against stunning natural backdrops made Bali one of the top tourist destinations in Asia and among the best places to visit in Indonesia.

Known as the Land of Gods, Bali is known for its striking beaches, ancient temples, UNESCO heritage sites, volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, a vibrant shopping culture and some thrilling adventure sports activities. Bali is home to the Indonesian International Film Festival. This Indonesian island also offers endless choices of local or far-flung cuisine for food lovers.

Here is the list of 10 stunning places to visit in Bali as part of Bali Tour Packages.

Pura Tanah Lot

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Regarded as one of the Bali’s prime attractions, Pura Tanah Lot is an ancient Hindu Temple situated in the southern part of Bali. Built during the 15th century by Dang Hyang Nirartha, the temple sits on an outcrop amidst constantly crashing waves. There are caves underneath the rock that are inhabited by sea snakes, believed to be the guardians of the temples. Because of its unique offshore settings, Tanah Lot is considered as the most frequently featured temple on Bali’s postcards and among the must visit attractions during your Bali Trip.

Tanah Lot Temple is one of seven sea temples situated on the Balinese coast. The temple can only be visited during the low tide where as it is submerged during the high tide. Many tourists come here in the evening to witness the mesmerizing sunset and to watch the Kecak Dance that will be held every day after the sunset for 45 minutes.

Kuta

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Kuta is a famous beach destination situated in Southern Bali. With its long sandy beach, great waves for surfing as well as its swinging nightlife, plethora of bars & nightclubs, Kuta is considered as the center of tourism in Bali and attracts large number of travelers from all over the world. Also called as Sunset Beach, Kuta Beach is known for its soft golden sand and panoramic sunset views. The long promenade of the beach is lined with cafes and myriad restaurants. Besides Kuta Beach, this resort town also home to culturally rich markets, museums, restaurants, and swinging nightlife scene that keeps going into the wee hours.

Mount Batur

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Also known as Gunung Batur, Mount Batur is an active volcano positioned to the north west of Mount Agung in Kintamani district of Bali, Indonesia. At an altitude of 1717 m, this captivating volcano is surrounded by Batur Lake, which spreads over an area of about the 13 Sq. km. The sunrise trek to Mount Batur is one of the most popular things to do in Bali as part of Bali Packages as it offers a rare opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable sunrise from the top of an active volcano and also the stunning views of Lake Batur as well as Bali. Besides, one can also visit Toya Bungkah hot springs, Pancering Jagat Temple and the secluded old Balinese village of Trunyan which is known for its ancient burial traditions using an open graveyard.

Uluwatu Temple

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Uluwatu Temple or Pura Luhur Uluwatu is a well-known Balinese Hindu sea temple situated in Bali. Dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, the temple is regarded as one of the sad kahyangan or six directional temples of Bali. Perched at the edge of a 70 meter high cliff projecting into the Indian Ocean, The temple was built in traditional Balinese architectural style. Besides its pilgrimage, Uluwatu Temple is also a famous place to see the sunset like as the sunset view at Tanah Lot temple. So if you want to see a mesmerizing sunset over the Indian Ocean, magnificent Balinese architecture and traditional Kecak & fire dance performances in Bali then Uluwatu Temple is the best place for you.

Ubud Monkey Forest

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Officially named as Sacred Monkey Forest, Ubud Monkey Forest is a nature reserve and a Hindu temple complex situated near Ubud in Bali. Spread over an area of 27 acres, this is another popular tourist attraction in Bali and a must-see for animal lovers as it is home to huge number of long-tailed Balinese macaques. Besides watching playful monkeys in their natural habitat, the site offers cool walks along paved pathways through thick forests of banyan trees and nutmeg. It is also home to three Hindu temples- the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal Temple, the Pura Beji Temple and the Pura Prajapati Temple. The forest is intended to represent the harmonious relationship between humans and animals.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan

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Situated on the shores of Lake Bratan, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple or Pura Bratan is a major Shaivite water temple in Bali. Built by the King of Mengwi in 1633 CE, Pura Ulun Danu is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, lakes and rivers along with Hindu trinity, Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva. Set against the imposing backdrop of Gunung Bratan, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is the most photographed temple on the whole island and among the must visit places while in Bali Tour.

The temple complex consists of four sacred buildings named Linga Pura, Pura Puncak Mangu, PuraTeratai Bang, and Pura Dalem Purwa. The PuraTeratai Bang is the main temple and the architecture is truly awe-inspiring. There is also a Buddhist Stupa in the complex which reflects the adoption of Buddhist beliefs by Balinese Hindus. The sheer beauty of this magnificent structure can be best seen in the pleasant morning light amidst the calm waters of the lake and backdrop of misty mountains. One can also hire a canoe and paddle out on the lake to explore the shrines at close range.

Nusa Dua

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Nusa Dua is a beautiful upscale beach resort town in Southern Bali, Indonesia. Long stretches of white sands, clean beach fronts and serene surroundings make Nusa Dua a hot favourite Bali destination and among the must visit places in Bali. Covers an area of 350 hectares, it has an incredible collection of world-class, international-chain hotels facing a pristine beachfront. Although Nusa Dua is Bali’s most developed beach town but it is suitable for a relaxing family beach holiday, particularly with very young children, as there are fewer crowds, less traffic and calm beaches. Besides, one can also find temples, a museum, a golf course and a convention centre here.

Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida are also visited from Nusa Dua as they are a quick boat ride away. Nusa Lembongan comprises of pristine beaches with coarse white sand, crystal clear water, soaring cliff viewpoints, and sea views that can get very idyllic at sunset, overlooking the outline of Bali’s highest peak, Mount Agung on the horizon. The island offers many water sports activities like surfing, diving and snorkeling.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

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Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud is famous for its beautiful rice paddies across the valley which alone offers a splendid sight of nature and a valuable insight on the local culture and customs. These are called subak, a traditional Balinese irrigation system dating back to the 8^th century. Tegallalang frames the three most stunning terraced scenes in Ubud region, with the others being in the villages of Pejeng and Campuhan. The early hours of the morning is the perfect time to visit these rice terraces where tourists are allowed to visit the intricately designed rice terraces and take some photos. This is the paradise for painters and nature lovers as it offers some amazing scenic views.

Seminyak

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Positioned just to the north of Kuta, Seminyak is Bali’s most stylish and upscale beach resort area as it is home to number of luxury hotels, high-end boutiques and fancy restaurants. With a length of 3 km, the white sandy beach of Seminyak offers a more secluded ambiance than its neighboring Kuta beach. However, after sunset a livelier nightlife scene takes over which draws huge crowds. Although the surf is too unsafe for most swimmers, Seminyak Beach attracts professional surfers to ride the big waves too. Seminyak streets are lined with fashion stores and top eat outs where the international chefs cooking up world-class cuisine.

Besakih Temple

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Often called as the Mother Temple of Bali, Besakih Temple is a Hindu temple complex located in eastern Bali, Indonesia. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the largest temples in Bali and among the must visit places during your Bali Trip. Surrounded by scenic rice paddies, hills and streams, Pura Besakih was built on the slopes of Mount Agung, the principal volcano of Bali. It is an extensive complex of 23 separate temples. Of these, Pura Penataran Agung is the main one. Built in six levels, the entrance of the temple is marked by a candi bentar (split gateway). Visitors need to ascend a giant stairway, decorated by carved figures from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, in order to reach the temple. One can also found Pura Batu Madeg, devoted to Vishnu to the northwest of the main temple and Pura Kiduling Kreteg, devoted to Brahma here.

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Flanked by Thailand in the west and Laos & Vietnam in the east, Cambodia, officially the Kingdom of Cambodia is a sovereign country located in the southern portion of the Indo-China peninsula in Southeast Asia. Phnom Penh is the capital city as well as the political, economic and cultural center of Cambodia. This erstwhile Khmer Empire is one of the most visited tourist destinations of Asia as it boasts of stunning landscapes, exotic temples, rich culture, fascinating history, and pristine beaches. Because of its famous historical sites, Cambodia is the better options for travelers who are bored with the beaches of Thailand or the natural wonders of Vietnam.

Here is the list of 10 amazing places to visit in Cambodia as part of Cambodia Tour Packages here.

Temples of Angkor, Siem Reap

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Situated near Siem Reap, the Angkor Archaeological Park is an UNESCO World Heritage site in Cambodia. Encompasses more than 400 Sq. km, the Angkor Park is home to the magnificent Angkor Wat Temple, Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom and several other ancient ruins of Khmer Empire. It is one of the most significant architectural ruins in Southeast Asia and one among the greatest tourist attractions in Cambodia. Constructed between the 9th and 12th century AD, many of the temples at Angkor have been restored now as it attract millions of foreign tourists all through the year.

Built in traditional Khmer style of architecture, Angkor Wat Temple is considered to be the oldest temple as well as the largest religious monument in the world. Regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it was originally constructed as a Hindu temple under the Khmer Empire in the early 12th century, but transitioned into a Buddhist temple later. Surrounded by a huge rectangular reservoir and a 3 km long outer wall, the temple consists of three tiered galleries and five towers shaped like lotus buds. The walls of the temple feature a series of stone carvings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics Ramayana and the Mahabharata. One can also visit Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia near the town of Siem Reap.

Phnom Penh

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Located at the confluence of Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap Rivers, Phnom Penh is a vibrant bustling city and also the capital of Cambodia since French colonial days. Earlier known as ‘the pearl of Asia’, Phnom Penh is considered one of the prettiest French built cities in Indo-China peninsula. Though still recovering from war and revolution, the capital city of Cambodia attracts huge number of tourists as it is home to some magnificent palaces and exotic temples.

Built in Khmer style of architecture, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh still serves as the royal residence of King Norodom Sihamoni. At Phnom Penh one can also visit National Museum, Silver Pagoda, Tuol Seng Genocide Museum and Wat Phnom. Just outside of Phnom Penh are the Killing Fields where millions of people were tortured to death during the notorious Khmer Rouge rule in Cambodia which lasted from 1975 to 1979 CE.

Sihanoukville

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Flanked by an almost uninterrupted string of beaches and tiny islands, Sihanoukville is the most popular Cambodian beach resort on the Gulf of Thailand. Named after a former king, Norodom Sihanouk, Sihanoukville has great history as this was the place where the United States fought its last battle in the Vietnam War. Also known as Kampong Som, Sihanoukville has both sandy and rocky beaches. If you’re looking for a place to party, then Sihanoukville is the place to go while in Cambodia Trip as this seaside resort town offers a pretty good night life with a wide variety of bars open until late night.

Sokha Beach, Independence Beach, Brash Ochheuteal Beach and the Serendipity Beach are the popular beaches in Sihanoukville. The Sokha Beach and Independence Beach boast the luxury hotels while Brash Ochheuteal Beach and the Serendipity Beach are the popular backpacker party areas. For a much quieter scene, you can head to less-trodden Otres Beach nearby.

Battambang

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Battambang, the former capital of Monton Khmer, is the second-largest city in Cambodia and also the capital of Battambang Province. Until the war years, Battambang was the leading rice-producing province of Cambodia. The lush countryside and the quirky cafes make Battambang one of the top places to visit in Cambodia especially visitors who are interested in Cambodian history.  It is home to many Angkor-style temples, French colonial buildings and Buddhist shrines. The most popular things to do here is Bamboo Train ride between Battambang’s east bank and the tiny village of O Srav. Other attractions include the bat caves at the base of Mount Sampeau, where over 1 million bats depart the cliffside cave every evening. One can also visit nearby temples of Phnom Sampeau, Phnom Banan, and Wat Ek Phnom.

Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem

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Just off the Cambodia’s south coast lie a handful of islands just as beautiful as their Thai counterparts but less visited by tourists. Compared to popular islands of Koh Samui and Phuket, Cambodia’s islands are a slice of relaxed tropical paradise where sun and sand take center stage. Of all the islands, Koh Rong Samloem and Koh Rong are the most beautiful islands in Cambodia which can be accessed only by boat from Sihanoukville. These islands offer everything from clean white sand beaches to mesmerizing sunsets, palm groves, resorts and hotels for a pleasant beach vacation.

Koh Rong, the bigger of the two, is backpacker paradise packed with enough kickback party hostels and bars while Koh Rong Samloem, just a 45 minute boat ride away from Koh Rong, is undeveloped and offers something more peaceful atmosphere for its visitors. Both islands have exceptional stretches of white sand, especially Saracen Bay on Koh Rong Samloem and Long Beach on Koh Rong. Those looking for adventure, these islands also offer a lot of activities like snorkeling, diving and kayaking.

Prasat Preah Vihear

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Built during the period of the Khmer Empire, Prasat Preah Vihear is an ancient Hindu temple complex in the Preah Vihear province of Cambodia. Sitting atop a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains, Prasat Preah Vihear is originally dedicated to Lord Shiva. Having the most spectacular settings, this UNESCO world Heritage Site is considered as one of the top historical temples in Cambodia and among the must include in Cambodia Packages. Situated on the edge of the Cambodian-Thai border, this outstanding masterpiece of Khmer architecture is quite different from the other traditional Khmer temples as it was constructed along a long north-south axis, rather than having the conventional rectangular plan with orientation toward the east. The temple has a series of sanctuaries linked by a system of pavements and staircases. Witnessing the marvelous carved stone ornamentations and the picturesque view of surrounding plains from this temple is an amazing experience for every traveler.

Kratie

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Kratie is a little charming town spread along the banks of the mighty Mekong River in Cambodia and also a popular stopover between Cambodia and Laos. Though there is no large scale tourism but Kratie is thronged by plenty of backpackers during peak season as it is the best place to see rare Irrawaddy dolphins that are estimated to be nearly 86 dolphins in the Mekong River. Dominated by a central marketplace surrounded by old, French colonial buildings, Kratie is also the place where one can enjoy blissful sunsets along the Mekong River. It is also considered as an excellent base for exploring the river and the surrounding areas, including the pretty Koh Trong, a 3 km long Mekong River island.

Kampot

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Often called as the land of black peppercorns, Kampot is a scenic town on the banks of Preaek Teuk Chhu River in Cambodia. This quaint riverside town boasts some excellent colonial architecture as this was the former retreat for the French aristocracy during colonial times. Kampot is also the gateway to the abandoned French hill station of Bokor National Park, among the most famous tourist places in Cambodia. Kampot area also offers several other attractions including Kep Beach, Rabbit Island, pre-Angkorian ruins and caves, and pepper plantations. View ancient ruins at the Kampot Kampong Trach caves, river cruising and jungle trekking are the popular things to do in Kampot as part of Cambodia Tour.

Mondulkiri

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Situated in the eastern part of Cambodia, Mondulkiri is a rising destination for nature & Ecotourism. The vast and quiet province of Mondulkiri has abundant natural beauty with thickly forested mountains, multiple waterfalls and the lush green rolling hills of the western side. The Bou Sra, Sen Monorom Waterfalls, Romnea Waterfall and Memang Gold Mines are the must see tourist places in Mondulkiri. Considered as the largest waterfall in Cambodia, Bou Sra is a three-tiered natural waterfall but only the first two tiers accessible to public view. Besides, Mondulkiri is also boasts of several elephant & wildlife sanctuaries and conservation projects like Mondulkiri Project and the Elephant Valley Project. Sen Monorom, the capital town of Mondulkiri, is the base for travelers who want to explore the elephant projects and nearby waterfalls.

Koh Ker

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Situated near Siem Reap, Koh Ker is an ancient temple complex in Cambodia. Once the capital of the Khmer Empire from 928 AD to 944 AD, Koh Ker is the largest ancient temple town outside Angkor and among the most remote historical places in Cambodia. Earlier called as Chok Gargyar or Lingapura, Koh Ker complex is about 3 km long that consists of a number of temples. The most important structure here is Prasat Prang, a 98 feet tall temple pyramid. Another remarkable structure in Koh Ker is Prasat Thom which is one of the very few Khmer temples with a linear layout. The Pram temple, Chen temple, the Preng well, Kuk temple and Neang Khmao temple are the other important structures to see in Koh Ker Temple complex.

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Situated in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is a small Republican country known for its wonderful natural beauty in the form of stunning beaches, lush rice fields, forested mountains and picturesque valleys. Besides, Vietnam is also home to number of pagodas and temples, where travelers can have a detailed look at well-preserved architecture, rich history as well as cultural heritage of Vietnam. From Buddhist monasteries to Hindu shrines, these enchanting temples are a must visit for every traveler who visit Vietnam as these are among the top places to visit in Vietnam.

Here is the list of 9 fascinating temples in Vietnam that are must include as part of Vietnam Tour Packages.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

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Bai Dinh Temple is a spiritual and cultural complex on Bai Dinh Mountain in Ninh Binh Province of Vietnam. Consists of several old and new Buddhist temples, it is considered as the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam and also a popular site for Buddhist pilgrims. Covering an area of about 1700 acres, the new complex was built in 2010 while the original pagoda is at the foothills. Built in Vietnamese architectural style, the complex consists of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara temple, Phap Chu Temple devoted to the Shakyamuni Buddha, and a temple dedicated to Lord Buddha along with a bell tower. Besides, the temple is also home to largest bronze statue of Buddha and the largest well in Vietnam. The temple also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, trekking trails in the Ba Chua Thuong Ngan forest, and limestone caves exploration.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

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Dating back to the 6th century, Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi situated on the banks of West Lake. Built as Khai Quoc Pagoda in 6^th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De, this Buddhist pagoda was originally located on banks of Red River and was relocated to its present location in 1615 AD due to the river’s encroachment. Designed according to strict rules of Buddhist architecture, the main pagoda stands at a height of 15 m with 11 levels while its surrounding structures include an incense burning house and a museum housing historical relics. Besides, on the grounds of Tran Quoc is a Bodhi tree, a sapling of the original tree in Bodh Gaya, India under which the Buddha sat and achieved enlightenment. With its magnificent architecture and picturesque settings, Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the must visit places in Hanoi while in Vietnam Packages.

Emperor Jade Pagoda

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Located in Ho Chin Minh City, Emperor Jade Pagoda is another extravagant temple in Vietnam which was built in 1909 CE by a Cantonese community that migrated from Guangzhou province in Southwest China on behalf of Emperor Jade or King of Heaven. Also known as Tortoise Pagoda, this pagoda is a fine representation of Mahayanist branch of Buddhism that is practiced widely in Vietnam. The temple houses some intricate carvings of Taoist and Buddhist figure along with goddess of fertility Kim Hua, which is surrounded by figures of women and small children. Arguably one of the most historically important temples in Vietnam, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is even more famous in the news after former American President Barrack Obama visited the site in 2016.

Thien Hau Pagoda

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Officially called as the Ba Thien Hau Pagoda, the Thien Hau Temple is a Chinese-style temple located in the Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Thien Hau, or Lady of the sea, the temple was built in 1760 by Chinese immigrants but it has been renovated several times. Representing the Chinese architecture, the roof of the temple is decorated with small porcelain figures depicting scenes from Chinese religion and legends. The interior of the temple is actually a partially covered courtyard, at the end of which is the main altar of the ‘Lady of the Sea’ while the exposed portions of the courtyard contain large stone incense burners.

Cao Dai Temple

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Just outside Tay Nihn town, Cao Dai Temple is a significant landmark of Cao Dai, a syncretist Vietnamese religious movement that incorporates aspect of Catholic, Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhist worship. Also known as the Great Temple or Holy See, the temple was built during the 1930s in a unique architectural style that reflects the Neo-Gothic, Baroque and Oriental styles. Closely resembles a Christian cathedral, it has two square towers, a long central nave with upper gallery, and side aisles. The exterior and interior of the Great Temple of Cao Dai are both extravagantly decorated with abstract designs, images of saints, seven-headed cobras, and pillars wrapped with dragons. There is a huge sphere inside the temple which represents the left eye of God. The main highlight for those visiting the Cao Dai Temple is watching the Caodaist rituals, which is a great display of personal reflection and colour.

Thien Mu Pagoda

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Also called Linh Mu Pagoda, Thien Mu Pagoda is an ancient temple situated on the left bank of Perfume River in Hue city of Vietnam. Built in 1601 CE Nguyen Hoang, this seven storey pagoda is one of the oldest and tallest religious buildings in the country and among the must visit attractions during your Vietnam Trip. Literally translated to Heavenly Lady Pagoda, Thien Mu Pagoda is widely regarded as the symbol for the former Imperial Capital City, and is mentioned in many local folk songs. Originally built as a small pagoda but over time it was expanded with more intricate features. One can see Dai Hung shrine, 12 huge wooden sculptures of temple guardians, the great bell, a tortoise with inscribed stele from 1715 and a complex of monastic buildings inside the temple complex. The temple also houses the car that took the monk Thich Quang Duc to his self-immolation in 1963 Saigon in the temple compound. There is a large cemetery at the far north end of the temple complex.

Temple of Literature

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Situated in Hanoi, the Temple of Literature was the first national university in Vietnam which was established in 1706 CE under the rule of King Ly Thanh Tong as a place of learning rather than religion. Historically, it was used to teach and educate the local Vietnamese royalty, nobles and bureaucrats until 1779 CE. Dedicated to Chinese philosopher Confucius, the place still holds a spiritual significance to each generation of students and educators in Vietnam. Surrounded by lush-green landscaped gardens, the temple consists of five linear courtyards and an impressive twin-tiered Van Mieu gate. Being one of 23 special national monuments of Vietnam, the Temple of Literature is one of the popular temples in Vietnam and also must-see tourist attraction in Vietnam.

Van Thuy Tu Temple

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The Van Thuy Tu Temple is the oldest temple in Phan Thiet of Vietnam dedicated to whale worship, as the fishing communities in southern Vietnam revere whales as divine beings who protect against bad weather at sea. The temple was built in 1762 CE in honor of a legendary whale Ca Ong, which was believed to save fishermen caught in a storm.  Recognized as a national relic site in 1996, this temple is now home to nearly 100 whale skeletons and other strange species of fish, most of which are 100-150 years old. Most noteworthy of them is the 19m whale skeleton, which is the largest whale’s skeleton of Vietnam as well as in Southeast Asia. There is a large burial ground in the temple complex for dead whales and the Whale funerals always attract large crowds. Besides, one can also find numerous artefacts from the Nguyen Dynasty like written decrees by 24 former kings, terracotta statues, incense table, lacquered boards, and an antique bronze bell.

One Pillar Pagoda

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One Pillar Pagoda or Chua Mot Cot is a historic Buddhist temple situated next to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam.  Dedicated to Quan Am, the temple was originally built in 1049 CE by the Emperor Ly Thai Tong as a gratitude for having a son. Situated in center of a square shaped lotus pond, the One Pillar Pagoda is built of wood on a single stone pillar and it is designed to resemble a lotus flower growing up out of the water. Along with Perfume Temple, it is considered as one of two most iconic temples of Vietnam and among the must visit places during your Vietnam Tour.

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Sparkling like a gem in the southern Indian Ocean, Mauritius, officially known as the Republic of Mauritius, is an island nation located east of Madagascar and southeast of Seychelles. Port Louis is the capital city and the largest port of the nation. Exhilarating mountainous landscapes, pristine beaches and exciting water sports, Mauritius is considered as one of the top holiday destinations in the world and also among the best honeymoon destinations. If you want to travel and see some of the best tourist places in Mauritius as part of Mauritius Tour Packages then check the comprehensive Visa Guide for this exuberant tourist destination here.

About Mauritius Visa

Indian Nationals who are travelling to Mauritius for tourist or business purposes do not need Visa to stay up to 60 days but one need to provide their valid return tickets, a confirmed booking for accommodation in Mauritius, and sufficient funds for expenses during their stay. Persons, who are wishing to spend more than 60 days in Mauritius, will need to apply for a visa prior to departure.

Visa Requirements

Up to 60 Days:

Indian Nationals traveling to Mauritius do not need Visa to stay up to 60 days but one need to provide some valid documents. Here is the list of documents required to submit to enter in to Mauritius.

1. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your return date
2. Hotel Booking Confirmation in Mauritius
3. Confirmed Booking for Return Flight
4. Proof of adequate funds for expenses during their stay (minimum of USD 100 per day)

More than 60 Days:

Indians, who are staying more than 60 days in Mauritius, will need to apply for a visa from the Mauritius High Commission in Delhi or Consulate of the Republic of Mauritius in Mumbai prior to departure. The cost of the Visa is free for Indians and is valid for 90 days with single entry.

Here is the list of documents required to submit for the visa.

1. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your return date
2. Two visa forms (photocopy allowed) duly completed & two recent passport-size photographs
3. Hotel Booking Confirmation in Mauritius
4. Confirmed Booking for Return Flight
5. Sponsorship Letter if the stay is sponsored by a Mauritian citizen
6. Proof of adequate funds for expenses during their stay (minimum of USD 100 per day)
7. Bank statement for last 3 months
8. Copy of Credit card

Visa / Stay Tips for Mauritius

1. The currency of Mauritius is Mauritian rupee. It is better to change some money in the airport immediately on arrival. However, hotels, shops and most of the restaurants in the capital city accept credit cards.
2. Better to re-confirm your return ticket at least 72 hours before departure.
3. Store your valuables, passport and money in the safety deposit box provided by the hotel before going to shopping.
4. Mauritius enjoys a relatively mild climate throughout the year while the most pleasant time to visit the island is from April to June and September to December.
5. The official language of Mauritius is English while the main language of the island is Creole which is based on French. In addition, Chinese and Hindi are also spoken widely.
6. The power supply in Mauritius is 240 volts and if you bring electrical appliances then you will probably need an adaptor.

Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy nestled between Thailand and Indonesia. This enchanting Southeast Asian country is an incredible mixing pot of cultures which gives you a glimpse of the heritage of China, India, Sri Lanka and other Asian countries as well. From the rich cultural heritage of Penang to modernity in glittering Kuala Lumpur, from the stunning white sand beaches of Langkawi to pristine rainforests of Sarawak, and from the endless shopping destinations to authentic Malay cuisine, Malaysia Tour Packages offers everything that a traveller looks for.

Here are the top reasons why you should visit Malaysia on your next trip to Asia.

Affordable Destination

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Malaysia is considered as one of the best travel destinations in the world as well as in Asia mainly its affordable prices. It may not be the cheapest South East Asian country while compared to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, but still Malaysia is really an affordable place to spend your vacation. You can find great hotels, restaurants and hostels at really reasonable prices and the quality of accommodation is excellent. A luxurious 5 stars hotel stay start at around RM300 per room per night and a 4 stars hotel will start on an average cost of RM200 to RM300 per night. However, there are more than enough guesthouses which offer a stay at around RM70 per night. The food and transportations in Malaysia is also inexpensive. Besides, most of the tourist places in Malaysia charged reasonable entry fee.

Multicultural Cities

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Malaysia boasts some of the world’s most vibrant cities hosting a mix of old and new architecture, art, culture, cuisine and history. Malaysia’s cities have been attracting tourists for generations, especially Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital of Malaysia. Often considered as one of the world’s great cities, Kuala Lumpur has everything from the breath-taking Petronas Towers to KL Tower, trendy karaoke bars to authentic street food and from busy shopping centers to colourful nightlife. The Petronas Towers are among the most recognized landmarks in the world and offer incredible views of the city. It is also a great starting point for Batu Caves and Melaka.

For history buffs and art lovers, Penang is the must visit as it is home to historic George Town and rich culinary diversity. Often called as the Pearl of the Orient, Penang is famous for its soft sandy beaches and colonial architecture. The imposing city of Georgetown has plenty to offer in the way of landmark homes, fort, temples and museums. There are over 50 murals and sculptures on the walls of its 19th-century buildings and the best way to explore the town is to follow the mural trail. Long regarded as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang is considered one of the best places in Southeast Asia to sample incredible street food of all types.

Most Popular Malaysia Tour Packages

Pristine Beaches & Islands

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Malaysia is blessed with abundant natural beauty in the form of lush jungles, pristine beaches, islands, natural caves, and spectacular mountains. Of these, the beaches and islands are among the best places to visit in Malaysia. Whether it’s the backpacker hangout of the Perhentian Islands with their incredible snorkeling opportunities or the laid-back beach hub of Langkawi, Malaysia is the place to come for the sun, sand and sea. Langkawi, Perhentian Island, Tioman Island, Redang Island and Borneo are the top beach & island getaways in Malaysia. The tropical beaches of Malaysia are better than Thailand beaches as these are less touristy and the nature is still virgin.

Stunning Natural Landscape

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From tropical rainforests to mountains, hills to beaches, Malaysia, Truly Asia, is a land of astonishing natural beauty. It is one of the countries in the planet with the most magnificent natural landscapes and among the best honeymoon destinations in the world. One will surely fall in love with the jungle of Taman Negara, the tea plantations of Cameron Highlands, Gunung Mulu National Park, Borneo Island, the coastal areas of Sabah and the Perhentian Islands. Among these, the majestic island of Borneo is more popular as it is home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak of Southeast Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is extremely popular for hikers and mountain climbers from all over the world and can be visited as part of Malaysia Packages. The tropical jungles of Malaysia are some of the oldest in the world, more ancient than even the Amazon jungles.

Abundant Wildlife

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Almost two-third of Malaysia is covered with tropical rainforests which serves as a habitat to twenty percent of animal species in the world. The fauna of Malaysia is considered to be the most diverse on the planet and couldn’t found anywhere else. The National Park of Taman Negara and the jungle of Borneo are the perfect places to discover Malaysia’s authentic wildlife. Along with waterfalls and canopy walks, visitor can spot various animals such as the tapir, orangutans, gibbons, macaques, monkeys, langurs and countless birds and insects in wild jungles of Taman Negara. In Borneo, you may be able to see even bigger animals like Indochinese tiger, the Malayan tiger, Indochinese leopard, rhinoceros, and Asian elephants. There are guided tours for animal lovers who want to encounter the animals in close quarters.

Authentic Malaysian Cuisine

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A Malaysia Trip is not complete until you have sampled its authentic local cuisine. From Indian to Chinese and from Mexican to local Malay Cuisine, there is food from every cuisine in the world as Malaysia is a designated stop on the world’s spice trade route since ancient times. The traditional Malay food is also influenced by Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Indian culture and is often very spicy. George Town on the island of Penang is a great place to start your gastronomic adventure as it is famed as one of the street food capitals of the world. Among the plethora of food options, there are a few particularly delicious dishes that you must try in Malaysia like Laksa, Wan Tan Mee, Lor bak and Char koay teow. Nasi Lemak, the national dish of Malaysia, is also a must try one which offers really as exceptional taste and aroma.

Endless Shopping

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From the latest designer brands to elegant Malay garments and from the modern gadgets to meticulously hand-crafted wooden baskets, Malaysia is a shopper’s paradise as it offers a myriad of shopping opportunities to its visitors. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ipoh and Langkawi are the best places to do modern shopping while Malacca and the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia are suitable for cultural handicrafts. Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, has something for every taste and budget like designer labels, local indie brands, and street markets. The malls like Bukit Bintang, KLCC have branded stores like Zara, Armani and Gucci while the street markets such as Petaling Street and handicraft emporium Central Market offer pop-up style stores that sell clothes at wholesale prices.

Myriad of Activities

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Besides its incredible biodiversity and natural beauty, Malaysia also offers many activities for thrill seekers. Whether you want to go wild or simply relax in idyllic rainforest or in the unspoilt beaches, Malaysia is a great place to spend some time for yourself amidst the nature. Snorkel and scuba dive around the Perhenthian and Tioman Islands, go caving at Turtle Cave in Gunung Mulu National Park, trek through the dense jungle and verdant tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands, hiking the Malaysia’s highest peak Mount Kinabalu, bungee jump at Sunway Extreme Park and go white water rafting at Perak, there so many top activities one can try in Malaysia.

Favourable Climate

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Malaysia experiences favorable weather conditions almost throughout the year. This tropical country has a really hot and humid equatorial climate with high temperatures throughout the year, usually about 32-33 degrees during the day and about 23 – 25 °C at night. Generally, islands on the west side of Malaysia like Penang and Langkawi are better to visit in the winter months between December and February, while islands on the east side of Malaysia like the Perhenthian and Tioman Islands are more enjoyable during the summer months.

From the rich cultural heritage of Penang to modernity in glittering Kuala Lumpur, from the stunning white sand beaches of Langkawi to pristine rainforests of Sarawak, and from the endless shopping destinations to authentic Malay cuisine, there are indeed a million reasons to visit Malaysia on your next vacation. If you are planning a visit to this tropical paradise without any hustle and bustle, explore Malaysia Tour Packages offered by Trawell.in.

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Lapped by the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is known for its enchanting ancient ruins, endless soft-sand beaches, imposing mountains, colourful festivals and dense wild-life. Besides, this island country has a great history and treasured heritage as this is related to one of the most important scriptures of Hindu mythology, the great epic Ramayana. Right from the site of Seetha’s abduction to the killing place of Ravana, there are so many mythological and historical places in Sri Lanka that can be visited as part of Sri Lanka Tour Packages. Highly popular among the locals as well as the tourists, Ramayana Tour in Sri Lanka will give you a spiritual travel experience and also an immense knowledge about the rich Sri Lankan heritage.

Here is the list of 10 must visit Ramayana related sites in Sri Lanka.

Chilaw

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Chilaw is one of the popular and important Ramayana related places in Sri Lanka as it is home to popular Munneswara Temple and Manavari Temple. These two temples are the main Ramayana related places which can be visited as part of Sri Lanka Ramayana Tour. Munneswara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered as the oldest Hindu temple in Sri Lanka. It is believed that this temple was the place where King Rama prayed to Lord Shiva in order to get rid of Brahmahatya Dosha as he had killed king Ravana who was a Brahmin.

As advised by Lord Shiva, Lord Rama installed four Shivalingas at four different places namely Manavari, Thiru Koneshwaram, Thiru Ketheshwaram and Rameswaram in India to get rid of Brahmahatya Dosha. About 6 km from Chilaw, Manavari Temple is the first place where Lord Rama installed and prayed the Shivalinga. It is called as Ramalingam as it was erected by Lord Rama. Rameswaram in India is the only other lingam in the world named after Lord Rama.

Sigiriya

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Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is an ancient capital of Sri Lanka and arguably one of the most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites that one should not miss during your Sri Lanka Tour. Often considered as the Eighth Wonder of the World by locals, this ancient fortress has significant archaeological importance and attracts thousands of tourists every year. Besides its world famous rock fortress, Sigiriya is also the place that is related to Ramayana tales. According to the legend, Naguliya Cave in Sigiriya is believed to be one of the places where Ravana kept Seetha Devi captive in Sri Lanka.

Trincomalee

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Besides its golden sandy beaches, Trincomalee holds a significant role in the religious and cultural history of Sri Lanka as it is home to historical Thirukoneswaram Temple. Often regarded as Dakshina Kailasam, Koneswaram The temple is said to have been built by Agastya Rishi on the instructions of Lord Shiva who was impressed by King Ravana’s devotion. It is also believed that this was the place where Lord Rama installed the second lingam after Manavari Temple in order to get rid of the Brahmahathya Dosham. This temple is revered as one among the Pancha Iswarams in Sri Lanka. Sits idyllically at the edge of a cliff, it offers some brilliant views of nearby plains and the Indian Ocean.

Nuwara Eliya

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Nuwara Eliya, the popular hill station of Sri Lanka, is also a great destination for spiritual travelers as it is home to Divurumpola, Gayathri Peetham, and Seetha Amman Temple, among the popular places related to Ramayana tale in Sri Lanka. Situated inside Nuwara Eliya town, Gayathri Peetham is said to be the place where Ravana’s son Meghanath propitiated Lord Shiva with penance and in turn was granted super natural powers by the mighty god prior to the battle.

About 5 km from Nuwara Eliya, Seetha Amman Temple in Seetha Eliya is a unique temple dedicated to Seetha Devi, Lord Rama, Lakshmana and Hanuman. According to the legend, this temple is said to be the site of Ashok Vatika where Goddess Sita was held captive by Asura King Ravana and also believed that the river next to the temple is where Seetha bathed. One can also visit Hakgala Gardens at Nuwara Eliya which is believed to be Ashok Vatika where Ravana kept Sita captive.

At a distance of 20 km from Nuwara Eliya, Divurumpola is believed to be the place where Seetha Devi underwent the “Agni” test of fire where she proved her innocence and purity to Rama. In local Sinhala language Divurumpola means the ‘place of oath’.

Ella

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Ella is another significant place to be visited as part of Sri Lanka Packages as it boasts two locations linked to the great epic Ramayana. This small picturesque mountain village is known for Ravana Ella Falls & Ravana Caves. Falling from a height of about 25 m, Ravana Ella Falls is named after King Ravana and is believed that Seetha bathed in a pool that accumulated the water falling from this waterfall. Situated at a height of about 1370 m, there is also a small Ravana Ella Cave near the falls and is believed that this cave was used by King Ravana to hide princess Seetha. Because of its natural beauty and gushing waterfalls, this is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Colombo

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Colombo, the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka, is also home to two famous temples that are related to Indian epic Ramayana. They are Anjaneyar Temple and Kelaniya Temple. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Anjaneyar Temple is the first temple in Sri Lanka in his Panchamuga form and it is said to be the only temple in the world to have a chariot for Anjaneyar. The chariot festival of this temple is held annually in December or January and is a popular temple festival in Colombo.

Among the most important and closest sites to Colombo connected to Ramayana is the Kelani Raja Maha Viharaya or the Kelaniya Temple. Kelaniya is believed to be the place where Vibhishana was coronated as the king of Lanka by Lakshmana after the death of King Ravana. There are also some beautiful murals depicting the crowning of Vibhishana outside the Buddhist temple. Vibhishana is venerated by Sinhalese Buddhists as a god as they believe him to be one of the main protectors of the island. The Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is a sacred place of worship for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and it is one of the three places in the country where Lord Buddha is supposed to have visited.

Ramboda

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At a distance of 50 km from Kandy, Ramboda is a scenic village located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is well-known for its stunning Ramboda Falls and historical Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple. The temple of Bhakta Hanuman was built by Chinmaya Mission on the hills of Ramboda where Lord Hanuman is believed to have searched for Seetha. The temple has a 16 feet idol of Lord Hanuman along with Vinayakar, Rama, Seetha and Lakshmana. It is one among the must visit places that are related to Ramayana during your Sri Lanka Trip. The name Ramboda is also associated with Rama’s army as this was also the place where the two armies faced each other for the first time, Lord Rama’s army on the Ramboda hillside and Ravana’s on the other side, separated by the Ramboda Lake.

There is a pond called ‘Sita Tear Pond’ nearby, which is said to be formed from Seetha Devi’s tears. Situated at Ramboda Pass, Ramboda Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall which cascades down from a height of about 109 m. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Sri Lanka and among the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. Close to the Ramboda Falls, there is a Ramboda Tunnel which is currently the longest road tunnel in Sri Lanka with 225 m long.

Mannar

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Overlooking the Gulf of Mannar, Mannar is an island in the north western part of Sri Lanka and is home to the historic Ketheeswaram Temple, one of the five Sivan temples in Sri Lanka. Built my Mayan, father-in-law of Ravana, Thiru Ketheeswaram is also closely associated with Ramayana as it is one of the three Shivalingas installed by Lord Rama in Sri Lanka. Thiruketheeswaram is also believed to be the birth place of Ravana’s queen Mandodhari. One can also visit Adam’s Bridge or Rama Sethu in Talaimannar which is considered as an essential part of the Ramayana.  According to legend, Rama Sethu is a legendary bridge supposed to be built by Rama with the help of Hanuman and his army in order to reach Lanka.

Dolukanda Sanjeevani Mountain

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Located near Hiripitiya, Dolukanda is another famous place in Sri Lanka with strong links to the Indian epic Ramayana as it is one among the five places where Lord Hanuman accidentally dropped a piece of Sanjeevani Mountain. According to the legend, Lord Hanuman was asked by Rama to fetch herbs to save Lakshmana who were seriously wounded during the war with King Ravana. Hanuman had brought the whole Sanjeevani Mountain as he was unable to identify the herb. While flying, some parts of the mountain fell on five places in Lanka namely Dolukanda, Rumassala, Ritigala, Thalladi and Kachchativu. Now, there is a grand yet dilapidated monastery at the foothills of Dolukanda which was also served as a healing center during the Anuradhapura period.

Sita Kotuwa

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Situated close to Gurulupotha, Sita Kotuwa is one of the important places to visit in Sri Lanka as part of Ramayana Tour Packages. This is the first place where Sita was held captive by King Ravana after kidnapping her. Surrounded by waterfalls and streams, this was the place once the city of Lanakapura stood and Seetha Devi was kept at queen Mandodhari’s palace at Lankapura until she was moved to Ashoka Vatika. Seetha Kotuwa means Seetha’s Fort and got its name because of Seetha Devi was stayed here.

From endless soft-sand beaches to enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, imposing mountains to dense wildlife, and from popular Buddhist worship places to renowned Hindu temples , there are so many tourist places in Sri Lanka. Besides, this island country is also home to some ancient spiritual places that are related to the great Hindu epic Ramayana.  If you are fond of history and mythology, then Sri Lanka is the best place to experience some importent places associated  with Ramayana as part of Sri Lanka Tour Packages offered by Trawell.in.

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Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand is a bustling metropolis with a rich heritage and culture. Often called as the party capital of Southeast Asia, Bangkok is among the world’s top tourist destinations and also one of the top places to visit in Thailand as it is the gateway to Thai warmth and hospitality. From glittering temples to grand palaces, from floating markets to swanky shopping malls, and authentic Thai food, Bangkok has something for every traveller that can experience as part of Bangkok Tour Packages.

Here is the list of top 13 places to visit in Bangkok.

Wat Arun

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Situated opposite to the Grand Palace, across the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is a popular Buddhist temple in Bangkok that stands at 79 m tall. Also known as the ‘Temple of Dawn”, this is one of the stunning temples in Bangkok and among the best places to visit in Bangkok. Built in Khmer architectural style, the grand central prang at Wat Arun is surrounded by four smaller prangs. These five towers are beautifully decorated with vibrant porcelain and colorful ceramic tiles. The base of the grand prang is also adorned with sculptures of Chinese soldiers and animals. Despite its name, this magnificent temple looks more stunning during sunset as well as in the night when it lit up.

Grand Palace

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A Bangkok Trip is not complete without a visit to the magnificent Grand Palace in the heart of Bangkok city. Built in 1782, the Grand Palace was the erstwhile residence of the Kings of Siam and is still hosts royal ceremonies, state banquets and other official functions. A combination of Thai and European architecture, the complex consists of the several buildings, temples, gardens and courtyards. Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall and the Phra Maha Monthian are the two oldest buildings in the complex while Borom Phiman Mansion is the most recent addition which was built as a residence for future Kings. Visitors are not allowed into any of the buildings, but one can feel free to take a walk around the palace that displays exquisite decor with spiked pagoda styled roofs. Since this is a sacred place, visitors should cover their knees, shoulders and even feet.

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Wat Phra Kaew / Temple of the Emerald Buddha

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Situated within the Grand Palace grounds, Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is the most sacred Buddhist Temples in Bangkok and among the must include places during your Thailand Tour. Dating from the 15th century AD, the temple enshrines the highly revered Emerald Buddha image in meditating posture in the style of the Lanna School of the northern Thailand. This 66 cm tall Emerald Buddha housed in the temple is considered to be the protector of Thailand. No one is allowed to touch the statue except the Thai King. The King changes the robes of the statue corresponding to the summer, winter, and rainy seasons, and is an important ritual performed here to bring good fortune to the country during each season. The walls of the temple are covered with mural paintings depicting the events in the life of Lord Buddha.

Wat Pho

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Located to the south of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho or Wat Phra Chetuphon is one of the largest Buddhist temple complexes in Bangkok. Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, it is known worldwide for its giant reclining Buddha that measures 46 m long and is covered in gold leaf. The soles of the feet are decorated with numerous precious stones. In addition, the temple complex also houses 400 Buddha images, a colourful Chinese pavilion and a traditional Thai massage school. This is also a great place to get a Thai massage as it is regarded as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

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Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a floating market on Damneon Canal in Ratchaburi area of Thailand. Established primarily as a tourist attraction, it is the most famous floating market in Thailand which draws a lot of tourists. The market consists of a maze of narrow canals where the boat vendors sell organic vegetables, fruits, fresh coconut juice and local food cooked from floating kitchens. Even though the prices are high, a guided boat tour of Damnoen Saduak market will give you an insight into a bygone way of life in Thailand.

Wat Traimit

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Located at the end of Yaowarat Road in Chinatown, Wat Traimit or the Temple of Golden Buddha is one of the most noteworthy temples in the city of Bangkok as it houses the world’s largest massive gold Buddha idol. The Sukhothai-style statue is about five meters in height and weighing five and a half tons. The awe-inspiring, gleaming statue of Buddha is one of the most striking in the world and a must-visit tourist attraction as part of your Bangkok Tour. This beautiful Buddha is housed in a 3 storey building named Phra Maha Mondop. The first floor contains a museum, the Chinatown Heritage center, the second floor contains an exhibition on the history of the Golden Buddha while the top floor of the Phra Maha Mondop contains the Golden Buddha image which was discovered accidentally in 1950.

Chao Phraya River

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A Bangkok Tour is incomplete without sampling its distinctive traditional cuisine and Chao Phraya River cruise. Also known as the River of Kings, Chao Phraya, formed by four major tributaries including Ping, Wang, Yom, and Nan Rivers, has long been one of the most important waterways in Bangkok and also a source of livelihood for many locals. Taking a boat trip down the river is a fascinating experience as you will see some of the Bangkok’s most famous landmarks standing proudly on the banks of the river. Visitors can also experience the Chao Phraya River by taking a luxurious dinner cruise. The Dinner Cruises on the Chao Phraya River allow you to see the city from a different perspective as the sun goes down and the temples and palaces are lit up.

Safari World

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Spreads over an area of 480 acres, Safari World is an open zoo and leisure park in Bangkok. The park is divided into two parts namely Marine Park and Safari Park. Features hundreds of animals from all over the world, Safari World offers a great variety of entertainment for everyone from an exciting safari drive to an intimate encounter with friendly dolphins or an exhilarating fast-paced action stunt. Jungle Cruise, Wildlife Feeding Show, CDV War, Eggs World, Bollywood Cowboy Stunt Show and Orangutan Boxing Show are some of the major attractions here. Marine Park houses a rich variety of marine animals like dolphins, sea lions, and crocodiles.

Jim Thompson’s House

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Often counted amongst the top Bangkok Tourist Places, Jim Thompson House is a museum which housing the art collection of Jim Thompson, an American businessman, architect and also the owner of the house who disappeared mysteriously from Cameron Highlands in Malaysia. He was a prominent figure in the Thai silk industry and he was also awarded the Order of the White Elephant for his contribution to the development of Thai Silk Industry. Built in 1959, the museum consists of six traditional Thai-style houses. There is a wonderful collection of artifacts, artworks and other souvenirs that James H.W. Thompson collected from Thailand, Burma, Cambodia and Laos.

Chinatown

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Centered around Yaowarat road, Chinatown in Bangkok is a bustling place of narrow streets, busy markets, Chinese temples and bright lights. It is a heaven for foodies, a paradise for Shopaholics, and an abode for the religious ones. Expect to find gold shops, small restaurants and thousands of open air market stalls during the day, while at night the area was loud and bright and busy with street food vendors who sell some authentic traditional Chinese/Thai dishes at good prices. hinatown is one of the best places to try Thai cuisine in Bangkok. Plan your visit to Bangkok during Chinese New Year, be sure to visit Chinatown and watch the lion dancers and fireworks.

Lumphini Park

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Lumpini Park is the largest public park in Bangkok and is an ideal place for basking in the bliss of tranquility, fresh breeze, and nature’s shade. Covering an area of about 142 acres of land, the park offers rare open public space, trees, and playgrounds along with an artificial lake where visitors can rent boats. The park is popular for outdoor leisure activities such as exercising, doing Tai Chi, playing games and music, learning social dancing, reading books in the library and so on. Besides, this park is famed for monitor lizards. This lush green park is also an ideal place to hang out with friends or even plan for a picnic.

Bangkok National Museum

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Situated on the former grounds of Wang Na Palace near Grand Palace, the Bangkok National Museum is the first National Museum in Thailand and also one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia. The museum was originally established by King Rama V to exhibit the private collection of his father King Rama IV in 1874 at the Concordia Pavilion inside the Grand Palace and was moved to its present location in 1887. From the largest collection of Thai artifacts to a good sneak peek into the country’s history, the Bangkok National Museum exhibits so many things in its three permanent galleries. It also houses one of the best collections of Buddhist and devotional art along with some pieces belonging to the Thai royal family.

Madame Tussauds

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Madame Tussauds is a wax museum located in the Siam Discovery in Bangkok. This is the 10th Madam Tussauds museum in the World and is amongst the must include in your Bangkok Packages. Madame Tussauds museum in Bangkok gives you a chance to pose with the wax statues of world celebrities, heads of state, activists, sports persons, legendary artists, and even royalty. The museum is divided into 10 zones with a collection of 70 wax statues of famous people from across the world. The most elegant and famous among them is the Royal Room as it displays the wax figures of His Royal Highness, Prince Mahitala Thibed Adulyadej and Her Royal Highness, Princess Srinagarindra, the late parents of His Majesty, the King while the most photographed statue is that of the Oval Office, with the U.S. President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama.

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With 1,190 Islands, Maldives is an island country in the Indian Ocean located to the south-west of India and Sri Lanka.  With white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, abundant marine life and exotic bungalows perched over the sea, Maldives is regarded as one of the top beach destinations in the world and among the luxury honeymoon destinations in Asia. Unfortunately, Maldives has always been one of those luxury tropical destinations we’ve always dreamed of visiting but dismissed due to the high costs. However, things are starting to look up for the budget travellers since 2011 as the government allows tourists to stay on local islands. Now, you can visit the Maldives on a budget with careful planning & a few smart tips.

Here are some useful tips on how to travel Maldives on a Budget.

Travel in Off – Season

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Maldives entices millions of travellers from around the globe as it is dotted with numerous beaches, among the must include in Maldives Tour Packages. As a beach destination, the best time to visit the Maldives is from November and April where tourists from around the world flock to the archipelago for endless sunshine and prime weather. While May to October is considered as the low season and is suitable for budget travellers as the prices are lower.  Due to the onset of the monsoon and the lesser number of sunny days, many resorts and airlines offer drastic discounts as much as 40% during this time. Another big advantage of travelling to Maldives during the off-season is lesser crowds at various beaches and attractions.

Staying on a Local Island

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Staying on a local-inhabited island is perhaps the best way to experience the Maldives on a budget. There are around 200 inhabited islands in Maldives archipelago and 90 of them have been developed as privately owned tourist resorts which are highly expensive. Since 2009, the Maldivian government allowed locals to open up guesthouses on their islands as an alternative to the expensive resorts. Maafushi is the first island in the Maldives to introduce guesthouses and is an ideal destination for budget travelers.

Booking a guesthouse or a hotel on a local island is an ultimate way to experience Maldives Tourism on a budget where tourists won’t have the luxury resort experience but one will have the opportunity to experience Maldivian culture, local foods and have access to local ferries and public transport to explore the region. Thulusdhoo, Maafushi, Dhiffushi, Huraa, Himmafushi and Hulhumale, with Thulusdhoo are best places to visit in Maldives where one will get cheapest accommodation options. Also, tourists can enjoy exciting water sports like parasailing, Jet Ski or diving offered in local islands.

Group Travelling

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Group Travelling is another best way to explore Maldives in budget as you can split the expenses with someone. The more people you go with, the transport will be cheaper rather than hiring out the entire speedboat or private ferry. Try and organize excursions with other resort guests who want to share the similar itinerary, that way the transport costs are shared throughout the group rather than lumped on you. Also, one can opt for private residences where you might get a good deal on an entire apartment if you travel in a group.

Do a Day Trip to a Resort Island

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Staying in a luxury resort in Maldives? I think that is kind of impossible for a budget traveller in Maldives as they charge thousands of dollars per night. But you can go to one of the resort islands on a day trip by booking through your local guest house as part your Maldives Tour where you can enjoy the most unique island experiences in the world.  For a fraction of the cost of staying overnight, one can get a full day access to some of the Maldives most luxurious resort islands along with free-flow alcohol, buffet lunch/dinner and all-inclusive activities such as swimming, snorkeling, paddle-boarding. There are many different private resort tours in Maldives which start from $100 – $150 US depending on the duration.

Opt for Local Transport

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Transportation is one of the most prohibitive costs for holidaying in the Maldives. Transfers to your accommodation from Male can be expensive if arranged through your hotel or resort.  But if you’re not in a hurry, using local ferries or shared speed boats can potentially save you hundreds of dollars. Public ferries and speed boats often only run once a day on alternate days, but won’t cost you more than $5 USD per way. There will be no ferries on Fridays from Male to other islands, except for Hulhumale, because it is a rest day. But, travelers need to check online for the various ferry timetables, as they tend to leave at different times and on different days depending on which island you wish to go. For those who are in a hurry and do not want to spend more time in travel, there is also the option of taking a speedboat or a seaplane. If you choose a speedboat you will pay $25-35 for one way while flying by hydroplane it will cost you about $200-$500 for Person.

Spend on the Right Activities

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A Maldives Trip is not complete without experience the exciting water sports like surfing, sea diving and snorkeling. Many resorts provide non-motorized water sports free of charge, but they charge for specialist pursuits such as scuba diving. For those staying in local guesthouses, there are many local operators offer these activities for affordable prices. Each snorkeling trip is priced around $30 while an open-water diving course will cost you around $500 depending on your place of stay. Since every Maldivian island has an in-house reef, you could rent snorkel equipment and peep into the underwater life without having to go on a specific tour. If you’re seriously into diving or surfing, stay at a place that has an in-house diving or surfing center.

Eat Like a Local

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Besides overpriced Maldivian resorts and hotels, there are also several affordable cafes and restaurants on each island which serves delicious food that one must try as it is influenced by a mix of Arabic, Indian, Sri Lankan and Oriental. Fish and coconut are the staples of Maldivian food. Most local guesthouses have thier own restaurant serving classic Maldivian dishes for less than £10. On larger islands like Maafushi, there are also a handful of local restaurants which are not cheaper than the guesthouse, but offer more variety.

Book All-inclusive Packages

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Maldives is one of the world’s most beautiful island destinations, like a string of pearls dotting the Indian Ocean. If you are a budget traveler, then book your flight tickets in advance to find the best deals. Book the perfect Maldives Packages with all-inclusive like airport transfers, local sightseeing, accommodation, meals, drinks, and activities which will save you from additional expense.

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Dubai, one of the seven emirates of United Arab Emirates (UAE), is the largest and the luxurious city known for its booming businesses, high-rising architectural wonders, palm shaped islands, captivating attractions and colorful nightlife. Besides, Dubai is synonymous with shopping and is often considered as one of the top shopping destinations in the world. From ultramodern mega malls to traditional souks and local street outlets, Dubai offers ceaseless shopping options ranging from gold to electronics, designer labels and luxury items. The word tax-free has made it an instant magnet for all shopaholics from across the world. With huge discounts and great deals, Dubai is famous for its many shopping festivals where you can shop various items at lowest prices.

Here are few useful tips to save money in Dubai while shopping as part of Dubai Tour Packages.

Travel during Shopping Festival Seasons

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Often called as the shopping capital of the world, the bustling city of Dubai has many shopping festivals throughout the year. Dubai Shopping Festival is one of the longest running and most successful shopping festivals in Dubai. This is the best time to shop in Dubai as it provides one of the best shopping experiences in the world, which is unique and diverse, ranging from street markets to traditional souks and world-class shopping malls. Held in December and January, this festival offers huge discounts, crazy promotions, citywide sales, and raffles with Porsches as the prize. This is one of the best options to save money in Dubai while shopping. Dubai Summer Sale (DSS) and Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) are the other two major festivals in Dubai where you can get huge discounts and offers on various items.

Compare Prices in Multiple Places

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Dubai has plenty of options for shopaholics that boasts everything from ultra-modern mega-malls to traditional Arabic souks as it considered as the ‘Shopper’s Paradise’. Dubai Mall is one of the most popular shopping places in Dubai.Besides fantastic luxury fashion available in Dubai’s malls and shopping hubs, there are still plenty of spots to find delightful deals and discounts. So, one must do research in multiple places for a better price while shopping which always helps you to save some extra money on the purchase. If you have good bargain skills, then explore Dubai’s famous souks and haggle your way to get the best purchase at the lowest price while shopping in Dubai during your Dubai Trip.

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Buy Duty Free Products

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Dubai Duty Free (DDF) is the tax-free shopping haven located at Dubai International Airport and is the biggest single airport retailer in the world with sales of over $1.82 billion. Duty-free shops are only found in the airports and seaports, and at some overland border crossings. The biggest difference between duty-free shopping and regular shopping is you won’t be charged import duties or sales taxes. With the best-selling items like perfume and gold, one can also choose to shop for electronics, fashion, cosmetics, watches, handbags, leather goods, alcohol, cigars etc. It is also the best place where you can get rid of your leftover local currency as Dubai Duty Free accepts multiple currencies. Besides, Dubai Duty free runs regular promotions and lotteries, often with prestigious prizes, such as a luxury car in the Finest Surprises raffle, or $1 million in the Millennium Millionaire draw.

Check Freebies or Discount Coupons

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Shopping is one of the top things to do in Dubai for locals and visitors alike. One need to do research about freebies and discount coupons before heading to shopping in Dubai, so that you can grab the best deals from various shops that offer coupons/discount on purchase. If you are looking for hottest deals and best discounts in Dubai, Cobone and Groupon are the top sites that provide best deals in products like apparel, toys, furniture etc. Besides, many UAE based website offers discounts in various hotels, restaurants, salons, outdoor entertainment activities, concerts, events and lot more. Indeed, visitors cannot leave the place without buying and taking home something, be it designer items, souvenirs, gadgets, or local delicacies as part of their Dubai Tour.

Check Prices in Local Markets

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The souks or local markets of Dubai are one of the most renowned markets of the city. Known for their bustling atmosphere, eccentric variety and for giving an authentic flavor of Arabic culture, the local markets of the United Arab Emirates are a must-visit where you can get everything ranging from furniture, electronics, fabric, clothes, footwear, toys, stationary and building material at affordable prices than high-end malls. With more than 100 shops, local markets of Dubai offers goods of high quality at low prices.

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Travelling is among the most important activity in our life as it relaxes and rejunavates our mind and body. Especially, a holiday in a foreign land is an everlasting memory for everyone as there is always something that waits to be explored. A trip around the world seems beyond reach for a lot of Indians due to wary of budget woes. Don’t worry; there are many places across the world where you can have the most memorable vacations without making a hole in your pocket. Check below the list of 8 affordable international destinations for Indians presented by Trawell.in.

Bali, Indonesia

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Often called as the Land of Gods, Bali is known for its striking beaches, ancient temples, UNESCO heritage sites, volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, a vibrant shopping culture and some thrilling adventure sports activities. The natural beauty of this Indonesian island makes it one of the top tourist destinations in Asia and also one of the most popular inexpensive foreign trips from India. Pura Tanah Lot, Kuta, Mount Batur, Uluwatu Temple, Ubud Monkey Forest, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, Nusa Dua, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Seminyak and Besakih Temple are the top places to visit in Bali as part of Bali Tour Packages. This gorgeous Indonesian island also offers endless choices of local or far-flung cuisine for food lovers.

Cambodia

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Located in the southern portion of Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia, Cambodia, the erstwhile Khmer Empire is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Asia as it boasts of stunning landscapes, exotic temples, rich culture, fascinating history, and pristine beaches. Especially, Angkor Wat, the largest religious building, is one of the major tourist draw of Cambodia. Besides Angkor Wat, beguiling riverfronts of Phnom Penh, beaches of Sihanoukville, colonial towns of Battambang, endless rice fields of Mondulkiri, Bayon Temple, Koh Ker, Koh Rong Samleoum and Kampot are the other popular tourist places in Cambodia which can be visited as part of Cambodia Tour Packages. Once a tourist no-go zone, Cambodia today is one of the cheap international destinations for Indians as it offers fabulously priced accommodation options and even cheaper food.

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Vietnam

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If you’re planning a budget friendly foreign trip, Vietnam is probably the most affordable one. Lying on the eastern part of Indo-Chinese peninsula, Vietnam is adorned with breathtaking landscapes in the form of stunning beaches, lush rice fields, forested mountains and picturesque valleys. There are also several fascinating pagodas in Vietnam. Despite its growing popularity over the last few years, Vietnam is still undeveloped, unspoiled and most importantly, very affordable international destinations for Indian as it offers comfortable accommodation, delicious local food and transportation at reasonable prices. Sapa, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh are the top places to visit in Vietnam as part of Vietnam Tour Packages.

Sri Lanka

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The island country of Sri Lanka is just similar to India in terms of culture and landscape. Lapped by the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is dotted with mesmerizing beaches, imposing mountains, historical monuments, stunning hill stations and dense wild-life.  In view of its fascinating scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, Sri Lanka is one of the most admired tourist destinations in the world. Due to maritime borders with India, budget friendly accommodation, reasonable transportation and food make Sri Lanka one of the most affordable destinations for those looking forward to cheap foreign trips from India. Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Galle, Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Ella, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Bentota and Yala National Park are the top places to visit in Sri Lanka as part of Sri Lanka Tour Packages.

Nepal

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Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, the landscapes of our neighboring Nepal invite all sorts of travellers to an amazing experience of their culture and lifestyle. Nepal is home to world’s 8 tallest mountains including the world’s highest peak Mount Everest. From the soaring heights of the mountain peaks to pagoda style temples and ornate royal palaces, Nepal has something for everyone. Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, Annapurna range, Pokhra, Nagarkot, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath Temple and Chitwan National Park are the top places to visit in Nepal. Besides, Nepal is the best value destination for budget-conscious travelers from India. From food to adventure activities, everything in Nepal is suited for budget travelers. The best part is Indians have a Visa Free entry!

Bhutan

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Nestled amidst lofty peaks and breathtaking meadows, the quaint and rustic country of Bhutan is one of our neighboring nations and is regarded as the happiest country in Asia. This Buddhist kingdom on the Himalayas is known for its monasteries, fortresses and dramatic landscapes that range from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Haa Valley, National Memorial Chorten, Trashi Chhoe Dzong and the Taktshang Goemba also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery are the main tourist attractions of Bhutan. A paradise for serious trekkers, Bhutan can be an excellent and cheap vacation choice as it offers budget friendly accommodation along with free visa.

Thailand

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Popularly called as the Land of Smiles, Thailand is one of the top destinations in the world and among the best beach destinations in Asia. It possesses an eclectic mix of cultures, traditions, people, landscapes, and history. From high lime stone cliffs to structures sitting on extinct volcanoes and from the white sand beaches to beautiful wildlife reserves, Thailand’s attractions are diverse and each provides a rewarding and memorable experience in its own way. Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui, Krabi, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi, Sukhothai, and Floating markets are the top places to visit in Thailand. And the best part is, Thailand is the most affordable international destination for budget-friendly travellers from India that fits just within the budget for all as it has full of budget staying options and good budget meal options. There are so many affordable Thailand Tour Packages for travellers who want to visit a foreign country without burning their pocket.

Malaysia

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Malaysia, a federal constitutional monarchy nestled between Thailand and Indonesia,  is an incredible mixing pot of cultures which gives you a glimpse of the heritage of China, India, Sri Lanka and other Asian countries as well.  From the rich cultural heritage of Penang to modernity in glittering Kuala Lumpur, from the stunning white sand beaches of Langkawi to pristine rainforests of Sarawak, and from the endless shopping destinations to authentic Malay cuisine, there are so many places to visit in Malaysia as part of Malaysia Tour Packages. Besides, Malaysia is also considered as one of the best travel destinations in the world as well as in Asia mainly its affordable prices. You can find great hotels, restaurants and hostels at really reasonable prices and the quality of accommodation is excellent.  The food and transportation in Malaysia is also inexpensive.

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Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chavithi, is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in honour of the elephant-headed god Ganesha. It falls on the fourth day of the Hindu month Bhadrapada, usually in August or September. This year this festival will begin on 13th September. The festival generally lasts 10 days, ending on the fourteenth day of the fortnight (Anant Chaturdashi).

Ganesh Chaturthi festival is celebrated throughout India with great devotion. The festival is celebrated by families at home, by people at their places of work and in public. The public celebration involves installing clay images of Ganesha in public pandals and group worship. The seven to ten days long festival ends with the ‘Ganesh Visarjan’ where the idols are immersed in the water; it is done as a procession with millions of people accompanying the idol along with music and dance. Tourists from across the globe come to India to witness the holy celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi as part of India tour packages.

Here are 6 places to visit to celebrate a wonderful and unforgettable Ganesh Chaturthi festival.

Mumbai

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Ganesh Chaturthi, the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha, is one of the festivals which the people of Mumbai celebrate with great zeal and enthusiasm. Lord Ganesh is regarded as the patron deity of Maharashtra and over 6000 idols are commissioned in Mumbai every year. It is celebrated all over India, but the maximum grandeur is witnessed in Mumbai and across Maharashtra. Mumbai is one of the prime places to visit as part of Maharashtra Tour Packages. The great Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj promoted the celebration Ganesh Chaturthi which was popularizing again by freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak.

Colourfully decorated idols of Lord Ganesha are installed both at homes and in Sarvajanik Ganesh Pandals. Lalbaugcha Raja, Mumbaicha Raja, Siddivinayak Temple and KhetwadiGanraj are the famous Ganesh Pandals in Mumbai. Ganesh Chaturthi lasts from seven to ten days in Maharashtra. On the first day of the festival, the idol of Lord Ganesh is placed on a podium that symbolizes a throne and is worshipped. The festival ends with the ‘Ganesh Visarjan’ where the idols are immersed in the water. The most prominent of immersions occurs on Chowpatti Beach. A massive crowd assembles here to witness the event. The processions for Visarjan begin early in the morning and reach mid-night by the time the final rite is performed.

Pune

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Pune is known to be the cultural capital of Maharashtra and hosts one of the best Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in India. Though Mumbai is pretty darned famous for their 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, Pune isn’t too far behind. Ganesh worship is believed to have become widespread in Pune during the reign of the Peshwas, who considered the elephant-headed god as their patron deity. Today this festival is the most colourful and joyful event in the religious, social and cultural life of Pune which has its own tradition of Ganesh Festival. The festival goes for ten days – starts with the installation of idols of Lord Ganesha on the first day to immersion of the Lord’s idols on the tenth day.

Kasba Ganpati, Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganpati, Guruji Talim, Tulsi Baug Ganpati and the Kesariwada Ganpati are the top 5 Ganesh idols in Pune. This is the order in which these idols are immersed on the last day. Apart from these, another well-known mandal is the Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati that creates a replica of the many popular monuments and temples of India. The celebrations in Pune are done traditionally and they try their best to ensure that no citizen is disturbed in these celebrations.

Pune festival is also held during Ganesh Chaturthi and is mainly emphasized on the celebration of art and culture, song and dance, custom and tradition. Classical dance, music recitals, film, drama festival, automobile rallies and traditional sports are held as a part of the festival. Visitors can witness these grand festive celebrations as part of Pune Tour Packages.

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Hyderabad

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Like Mumbai and Pune, Hyderabad is also one of the famous places in India to witness the grand celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi. Ganapathi Navaratri utsavams in Hyderabad starts on Vinayaka Chavithi (Ganesh Chaturthi) and ends on Anantha Chaturdashi day with Ganesh Immersion. Hyderabad hosts nearly 75,000+ Ganesh pandals. The famous places where Ganesha idols are erected and decorated fascinatingly are Khairatabad, Balapur, Kamalanagar Chaitanyapuri, Durgam Cheruvu, Old City (Gowlipura) and New Nagole.

Khairatabad in Hyderabad hosts one of the largest Ganesh idols in the country. Khairatabad Ganesh Utsav Committee will be installing 58 feet Ganesha idol this year as it will complete 62 years since it started and named as Sri Sakthi Peeta Shiva Nagendra Maha Ganapathi. The construction of the idol started on 16 June 2016 and will be completed by 4th September 2016. Balapur Ganesha is known for its Laddu auction since 1994 and it was acquired for over Rs. 10 lakhs in 2015. In Old City of Hyderabad, Gowlipura Ganesh Pandal is one of the oldest and very popular Ganesh utsav samithi. Devotees immerse the idols of Lord Ganesh in the Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad. Lakhs of devotees join the procession and fill the whole atmosphere with chanting of Lord Ganesha as part of Hyderabad Tour Packages.

Goa

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Goa, the smallest state, is one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. Renowned for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture. The Ganesh festival is one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals all over India and holds a special place in the hearts of Goan people. It is an occasion of fun and frolic, a time of cleaning and decorating the place of worship of the elephant headed God. More importantly, it brings about a reunion of family and friends, exchanging gifts and overall rejoicing to celebrate the birth of Lord Ganesha.

There are various idols of Lord Ganesh in different shapes and sizes well adorned and installed in heavily decorated pandals by various merchant associations and other groups in different parts of Goa. The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi holds a special significance in Mapusa, which is famous for its Temples at Ganeshpuri and Khandola. Marcela is also one of the villages where this festival is celebrated the most as it is a village known for its wide number of Hindu temples. The artisans from the village are engaged in making many different idols of Lord Ganesh, with varied ideas springing in their creative minds. There are idols made of Arecanut, Coconut, Cane and Bamboo in this village. All over these festival days, there are hordes of devotees from different religions besides Hindus, scurrying at these places to worship and pay obeisance to the most loved God of Wisdom. This is the best time to witness the festivities as part of Goa Tour Packages.

Ganpatipule

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Ganpatipule is a small town located in Ratnagiri district on the Konkan coast of Maharashtra. It has a series of beaches and vantage points offering some stunning views of the sea. The 400 years old Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, on the Ganapatipule beach itself is the primary attraction in Ganapatipule that draws thousands of pilgrims every year and is the must include in Ganpatipule Tour Packages. The Swayambhu Ganapati Temple of Ganapatipule is known for its unique idol of Ganapati built on pule (white sand). It is believed to have originated by itself (swayambhu). It is one of the Ashta Ganapati temples of India and is known as Paschim Dwar Dewata. The idol of Ganapati here is made out of copper and depicts the God astride a lion. It is placed in the Sanctum Sanctorum and at sunrise and sunset a shaft of golden light penetrates and illuminates the idol.

The Temple of Ganapatipule becomes the center of grand activity for the 10 day celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi when villager’s and pilgrims join actively in a procession honoring Ganapati. A taller idol is placed in an ornate palanquin and carried on the shoulders of the devotees through the village accompanied by a priest and a drummer. This festival is marked by vibrant celebrations, prayers and feasting.

Kanipakam

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Kanipakam is a village and pilgrimage center located in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. This place is
famous for the Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple (Kanipakam Temple), which has a beautiful Vinayaka idol that
grows in size. The temple was constructed in the 11th century by Chola king Kulothunga Chola I and was expanded fu
rther in 1336 by Vijayanagara Kings. Kanipakam temple is a rare temple with a self-manifestation (swayambhu) idol of Lord Ganesha.

The Annual Festival (Brahmotsavam) is conducted for 21 day s starting on the Hindu festival Vinayaka Chavithi or Ganesh Chaturthi. Nijaroopa darshanam (without armor and decoration) is offered during early morning poojas. It is celebrated with all traditional pomp and gaiety. The Utsava Murthi (festive idol) is taken out in procession on all the days colourfully decked on different Vahanams (Carriages). The soulful participation of the devotees is praise worthy. There is a rare tradition to worship the Lord with various puja items each day during the festival. Devotees from surrounding villages of Kanipakam throng the temple and offer Abhishekam to Ganesha with water of their villages’ wells and lakes. Gramotsavam is the major event in Brahmotsavam festival during which the Lord is taken out in procession to surrounding villages.

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Besides cleanliness and non-corrupt governance, Singapore, the country of the Merlion, is known for its delicious cuisine that has become popular throughout the world. Singapore is a haven for food lovers as it offers a variety of cuisines incorporating a rich heritage of dishes consisting of Chinese, Indian, Malaysian and Indonesian influences. Often described as a national pastime, food is literally a way of life in Singapore. From lip-smacking dishes by time-tested hawker heroes to scrumptious creations by award-winning homegrown chefs, Singapore has diverse range of dining options. To go on a food adventure in this Merlion country, here are the top places to experience sumptuous food as part of Singapore Tour Packages.

Chinatown

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One of the top places to visit in Singapore, Chinatown in Singapore is a delightful blend of history and culture. Besides, Chinatown is one of the hottest dining enclaves in Singapore as it has endless choices from cheap, local Singaporean street food stalls to award winning restaurants and hip cafes serving up legendary bites at affordable prices. For a plethora of mouth-watering options, visit Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre, Chinatown Food Street, and Maxwell Food Centre in this part of Singapore. These spots are home to many stalls that serve up must-try classics like Tian Tian chicken rice, fried oyster omelette, and laksa. For delectable seafood creations, visit Chinatown Seafood Restaurant, which serves up chilly crab, black pepper crab, and cereal prawns.

Little India

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Just opposite to Chinatown along the east bank of Singapore River, Little India is the center of life for Singapore’s Indian community and is also one of the must include places in Singapore Packages. Often called as Tikka by the locals, a walk in the streets of Singapore’s Little India is sure to awaken all your senses as it is fitted with multi-coloured shop-houses, historical temples, mosques along with authentic Indian cuisine. Tekka Centre is one of the famous hawker centers in Little India with a wide variety of street food. One can fill their tummy with South Indian vegetarian food, North Indian tandoori dishes and local fare like roti prata and teh tarik here. Komala Vilas is one of the popular Indian restaurants serving an assortment of south Indian and north Indian cuisine on banana leaves to follow the culture of the Tanjore District in Tamil Nadu. Madras New Woodlands, The Banana Leaf Apolo, Ananda Bhavan Restaurant, Khansama Tandoori Restaurant, MTR1924, Taste of India are some of the popular restaurants that serve authentic Indian food here.

Kampong Glam

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Symbolized by the exquisite Sultan Mosque, the Kampong Glam in Singapore has been synonymous with Malay and Muslim culture since ages which can be experienced as part of Singapore – Malaysia Tour Packages. This neighborhood boasts many independent boutiques, traditional stores, restaurants as well as cafes popping up in the pretty shop houses that line the narrow lanes especially Bali Lane, Haji Lane and Kandahar Street. Nestled in Singapore’s Arab Quarter, Haji Lane is a great dining location ideal for exploring at night as a myriad of restaurants, cafes and informal dining outlets are scattered throughout the lane and serves everything from authentic Indonesian food to Mexican cuisine as well as local food. Cafe le Caire, The Singapura Club, I Am, Ciao, Bergs, Le Pont de Vie, Singapore Zam Zam Restaurant, Warong Nasi Pariaman, and Beirut Grill are some popular places to eat in Kampong Glam during your Singapore Tour.

Bukit Merah

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Located in the southernmost part of Singapore, Bukit Merah, also known as Redhill is a new planning town and one of the popular places to visit in Singapore as part of your Singapore Trip. This place got its name as it was supposedly stained by the blood of a very smart boy who was murdered by a jealous Raja. Now Bukit Merah is home to many great spots that offer quality food like Bukit Merah View Food Centre, labeled as one of the best food centers in Singapore and Keng Eng Kee along with hundreds of public hawker centers, coffee shops, cafes, as well as restaurants. Besides, Wow Wow West, Tian Tian Chicken Rice, Joe’s Kitchen, The Bakery Chef, Bukit Merah View Market, ABC Brickworks, Yan Fried Bee Hoon, Stew Kuche are some of the top and popular restaurants that serves both local and other cuisines.

Katong

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Katong, also known as Tanjong Katong, is a beautiful and historic-rich residential neighbourhood in the eastern portion of the Central Region of Singapore. Apart from its heritage museums and historical Peranakan influences, Katong has one of the most diverse foods to offer in Singapore as it is home to several cafes, traditional eateries and restaurants. Well-known for its Peranakan cuisine Katong Laksa, 328 Katong Laksa is the popular place for having one of the best laksas in Singapore and Guan Hoe Soon is Singapore’s oldest Peranakan restaurant that serves Peranakan cuisine which is fiery, complex and brimming with Chinese and Malay flavors. If you want to try local food, eat at the local hawker stalls at Marine Parade Market where you can also taste different types of cuisines like Indian, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Malay, Italian, and Mexican. Alibabar Coffee Shop, Chin Mee Chin Confectionery, Zaffron Kitchen, Rabbit Carrot Gun are some of the popular places that serves authentic food in Katong area.

Bukit Timah

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Bukit Timah, in the westernmost part of the Central Region of Singapore, is regarded as an exclusive and posh district of Singapore lined with several properties of high land value. Other than its rich bungalows, high rise condominiums, elite schools, the Bukit Timah Race Course, and Downtown Line 2, Bukit Timah is also home to many characteristic cafes and restaurants that offer local cuisine and international menus like Italian and Greek. Bukit Timah Hawker Center is one of the popular places to experience Singapore’s vibrant street food culture. The Fishball noodles and laksa noodles are must-try items at any Singaporean hawker center. If you are looking for an authentic Korean meal, Kim’s Family Food Korean Restaurant is the best places to eat where Haemul Pajeon and the Budae Jjigae are the must try dishes. La Petitie Cuisine, Sakurazaka, Fratini La Trattoria, Little Diner, Rubato, Ristorante Da Valentino are some of the popular places to experience the taste of different cuisines of Singapore.

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With 47 countries and a population of 742.5 million, Europe is the third most populated continent in the world and is also home to some of the world’s largest and most famous cities. From eternal Rome to playful Paris and from lovely Venice to bustling London, Europe travel destinations are some of the best in the world and offer something for everyone. A visit to the European continent is visually magnificent and historically significant as it attract visitors from all parts of the world especially Indians. So, what are you waiting for? Check below the list of 12 most prominent and captivating destinations of Europe as part of Europe Tour Packages.

Paris, France

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Paris is a picturesque dream destination spread on the banks of Seine River in Northern France. Often called as the City of Lights, Paris is one of the most visited cities in Europe as it is home to some iconic historical monuments, world-class museums, centuries-old churches, expansive landscaped gardens, and scrumptious food. Eiffel Tower in Paris is the most iconic monument in the world which draws millions of visitors every year with its unforgettable ambiance. Even though Paris is synonymous with Eiffel Tower, there are also some popular attractions like Louvre Art Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, Montmartre, Palace of Versailles, Palais Garnier, Quartier Latin, Disneyland, Place de la Concorde, Sainte-Chapelle and Musee d’Orsay. Besides, Paris is also known for its rich culture, haute couture, stylish shopping hubs, and gastronomy.

London, England

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Attracting 27 million visitors every year, London is the most popular tourist destination in Europe as well as in the world. The capital city of England is brimming with history and has been home to the Royal Family for a long time. From the historic Tower of London to the modern London Eye, the city has something for everyone and is a perennial favourite with Indian travellers. Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, National Gallery, British Museum, Tate and Tate Modern, Victoria and Albert Museum and Hyde Park are the famous attractions of London. With some of the world’s best art, culture, entertainment, shopping, dining, and history make London one of the most diverse and happening cities in the world.

Rome, Italy

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Regarded as one of world’s most photogenic cities, Rome is another favourite with travellers as it is a romantic blend of culture and history spiced up with a vibrant street and nightlife. Every year millions of tourists from around the world visit the capital city of Italy to admire the treasures and masterpieces of Roman art and architecture. From its iconic ruins of Roman Forum and the Colosseum, to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Cathedral, Rome has so many tourist places. Besides displaying captivating architecture, these ancient ruins are centers for tourist activity and a walk along the ruins will leave you in a historic trance. Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Square and Basilica are the other attractions in Rome.

Vienna, Austria

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Vienna, the capital of the Republic of Austria, is one of Europe’s most visited cities as it is packed with architectural wonders, rich culture, buzzing with melodious music, and streets are lined with most astounding restaurants and cafes.  It is ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world with its inhabitants enjoying a high quality of life. Set gracefully on the eastern banks of the Danube River, Vienna was once the center of sprawling Habsburg Empire, and to this day remains Austria’s most important commercial and cultural hub offering some remarkable historic sights, museums, live events and entertainment. Opera House, Hofburg Palace, Schonbrunn Palace, Museum of Fine Arts, St Stephen’s Cathedral, House of Music, Belvedere Complex, Wiener Rathaus, Burggarten, Ringstrasse and Hundertwasserhaus are some of the top places to visit in Vienna as part of Europe Packages.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

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With its picturesque canal network, rich history and vibrant culture, Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world as well as in Europe. Often called as the ‘Venice of the North’ for its more than 100 canals, it is a true delight for tourists of different ages coming from different parts of the world. Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam, Vondel Park, Begijnhof, Canal Belt, Bloemenmarkt and Amsterdam’s West Church are the top places to visit inn Amsterdam. Besides its photogenic canals, luscious parks and beautiful religious buildings, the city is also home to numerous, world-leading museums like Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and Scheepvaart Museum.

Venice, Italy

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Built on 117 small islands off the coast of northeastern Italy, Venice is a city of immense beauty and historical significance. It is one of the most unique cities in Italy and also one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The sinking city is attracting millions of tourist round the year especially lovebirds due to its romantic scenery, historical attractions and serene canals. The palaces and churches reflect the glorious past of Venice that was once a wealthy trading center. St. Mark’s Basilica, Doges Palace, the Grand Canal, Bridge of Sighs, Ponte di Rialto, Gallerie dell’Accademia, Venice Lido, San Giorgio Maggiore, Piazza San Marco, Teatro La Fenice, Scuola Grande di San Rocco and Santa Maria della Salute are the top places to visit in Venice while holidaying in Europe. Don’t forget to take a gondola ride down one of the canals or hop on a vaporetto and cruise the Grand Canal where you will see several Italian palazzos and museums, housed in pretty pink buildings.

Munich, Germany

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Munich, the capital of Bavaria is a fun loving city lies on the River Isar on the fringes of the Bavarian Alps. Began as a monastery, today Munich is the third largest city in Germany and among the top destinations to visit in Europe. This green city is known for its beautiful parks, opulent Baroque churches, many museums and beautiful palaces reflecting the architectural splendors of medieval Germany. The Frauenkirche or the Church of our Lady, St Peter’s Church, The Residenz, Marienplatz and the Neues Rathaus, Deutsches Museum, Alte Pinakothek, Englischer Garten, Nymphenburg Palace, St. Michael’s Church, and the Olympic Park are some of the must visit places in Munich. Munich is also the city of some world-famous German exports like BMW, FC Bayern and the incomparable Oktoberfest, a two week beer festival held in every autumn.

Budapest, Hungary

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Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a global city made up of 3 unified cities with Buda and Obuda on the west bank of the Danube and Pest on the east bank. Often called as the ‘Paris of the East’, much of the city has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and many visitors consider Budapest to be amongst the most beautiful cities in Europe. The Hungary’s capital is home to several attractions like the Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Parliament Building, the Danube Promenade, Gellért Baths, Heroes’ Square, Lake Balaton, Hungarian State Opera House, City Park, Stephen’s Basilica, Fisherman’s Bastion and Andrassy Avenue. Besides, Budapest is famous for its thermal springs, some of which have been used for therapeutic purposes since Stone Age.

Athens, Greece

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Established among seven historic hills, Athens is a sprawling city widely known as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. With its history of about 7000 years, the capital city of Greece presents a blend of historical and modern features. From ancient monuments and medieval churches to world-class museums and high-end boutiques, Athens offers everything to its visitors. Acropolis, Parthenon, Byzantine Museum, the ancient Agora, the National Archaeological Museum, Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Poseidon, Erechtheion, the Temple of Hephaestus, Daphni monastery, Cape Sounion and Syntagma Square are the top places to visit in Athens, Greece. Besides, the city is vibrant with colourful nightlife and diverse shopping options.

Zurich, Switzerland

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Situated on the northwestern tip of Lake Zurich, Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and also ranks as one of the most beautiful place to visit in Europe. Known worldwide for its banks, Zurich is Switzerland’s financial as well as cultural capital. Besides, Zurich has a lot of attractions including medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, cafes, museums, art galleries, and peaceful parks. Old Town, Bahnhofstrasse, Lake Zurich, Kunsthaus Zurich, Opera House, Schauspielhaus, Tonhalle, Uetliberg, Rieterpark and Swiss National Museum are some of the top attractions in Zurich. Zurich Zoo is considered to be the best in Europe and also has a separate petting zoo for the kids. Also, there are several churches in the city, notable amongst them are the Grossmunster Church and St. Peter Church.

Barcelona, Spain

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Located along the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is the vibrant capital city of Catalonia and also Spain’s second city. This modern metropolis is a favourite city for most travellers visiting Spain as it is packed with rich culture, fantastic art and architecture, tasty local cuisine, attractive beaches, buzzing nightlife and eye popping sightseeing attractions. This cosmopolitan and bustling heart of Catalonia has almost everything any holidaymaker would desire. Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, La Rambla, Barri Gòtic, Casa Batllo, Casa Mila, City Beaches, Park Guell, Barcelona City History Museum, Montjuic, and Monestir de Pedralbes are the top places to visit in Barcelona during your Europe Tour.

Brussels, Belgium

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Brussels is an easy going capital city of Belgium and the administrative hub of European Union. It is also the principal seat of the Belgian Royal Family. Brussels is a charming place with stunning architecture and fascinating history. Grand facades, magnificent cathedrals, some amazing museums and imposing Atomium, there are so many places in Brussels. The Grand Place, Atomium & Mini Europe, St. Michael Cathedral, Notre Dame Du Sablon, Le Botanique, Palais Royal, Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Manneken Pis, Jardin du Petit Sablon, and Mont De Arts are the popular Brussels Tourist Places. Besides, Brussels is also famous for its Belgium chocolates.

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Popularly called as the Land of Smiles, Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia as well as in the world. It draws millions of visitors every year as it boasts of stunning beaches, glittering temples, rich culture, famous Thai Massage and great food. Besides, Thailand also possesses some spectacular festivals that offer a glimpse of the rich Thai heritage and traditions. If you want to experience Thai culture at its best, plan to visit this wonderful country during these festival seasons. Here is the list of some vibrant festivals of Thailand that one must experience as part of Thailand Tour Packages.

Songkran / Water Festival

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Songkran, also known as Water Festival, is one of the biggest and most fun festivals in Thailand and possibly in the world. The Songkran festival is traditionally celebrated every year on April 13th and lasts about 3 days. The word Songkran originally comes from a Sanskrit term “saṃkranti” which means ‘to move into’. This festival is celebrated on the day when the sun changes its position in the zodiac which marks the end of the hottest months in Thailand, and the start of annual rains. In addition, Songkran is the welcoming of the Thai New Year and is symbolically a time for new beginnings and spiritual cleansing. During these days, families and friends come together to celebrate and rejoice by visiting temples, washing ther Buddha images in reverence, and throwing water on each other using  buckets, hose pipes, and water guns. Chiang Mai, one of the popular places to visit in Thailand, is the best place to experience this fun filled festival.

Phi Ta Khon / Ghost Festival

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Phi Ta Khon is one of the most colourful traditional festivals celebrated in Thailand. Also known as the Ghost Festival, Phi Ta Khon is a three-day event held in the first weekend after the sixth full moon (May / June) in Isaan. Peculiar to Dan Sai, the whole event is called Bun Luang, part of a Buddhist merit-making holiday also known as Bun Phawet. This festival is renowned for the colourful masks worn by thousands of locals. The masks are ghastly with stretched faces, phallic noses, decorated in bright and gaudy colours. Combines religious traditions, a fun-loving party atmosphere, and local handicrafts, it usually has the main parade on Friday, with pageants and music on Saturday and Buddhist ceremonies on Sunday.

Loi Krathong & Yi Peng Festival

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Loi Krathong is an important festival in the Thai Buddhist calendar observed every year on the 12th full moon day of the traditional Thai calendar.  This two-day event, normally celebrated in November, is one of the most beautiful festivals of Thailand. During this festival, people make offerings of krathongs, the boat-shaped flower baskets with burning candles, which are released and float along the river in honour of the Goddess of Water. As the boat is launched and drifts away, it is believed that people can be released from their sufferings and may wish for good fortune and luck. Loi Krathong coincides with another festival Yi Peng, and is a time to make merit and released hundreds of paper lanterns into the night sky. With bright krathongs floating in the river and glowing lanterns flying in the air, it is truly a spectacular sight. Chiang Mai is the best place to witness this spectacular festival during your Thailand Tour.

Chinese New Year

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Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival and Lunar New Year, is another significant festival celebrated by Thai people. Started in 2698 BC, the Chinese New Year marks the first day of the new moon and is a massive event that is celebrated by Chinese communities all over the world which usually falls on January or February. Chinatown, one of the top places to visit in Bangkok, is the place to witness the exuberant and colourful Chinese New Year celebrations in Thailand as each and every corner of this bustling area comes to life with dragon dancers, exploding firecrackers, iconic red Chinese lanterns, crowds of worshippers as well as locals who gather to participate in the fanfare and enjoy mouth-watering Chinese banquets. With its festive atmosphere, tasty food, and vibrant cultural performances, the Chinese New Year in Thailand draws a huge crowd of foreign visitors and it is the best time to experience the local Chinese culture at its best. Chinatown in Bangkok is the must include places in Bangkok Tour Packages.

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival

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The Candle Festival is the one of the most well-known religious festivals celebrated in Ubon Ratchathani of Isaan, Thailand. Usually held in July every year, it is a mix of art, culture and celebration. Asahna Bucha and Khao Phansa are the two important events celebrated during this festival. Asahna Bucha marks the day when Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Benares in India while Wan Khao Phansa marks the start of the Buddhist Lent, three-month rainy period. Originally, it is a tradition for Thai Buddhists to donate candles for monks at the start of the Lenten period to dispel gloom in their quarters and elsewhere within the wat during rainy days. Later, it is transformed in to a major event of many village celebrations especially in the Ubon Ratchathani. Huge and elaborately carved candles are prepared months in advance at temples across the region and then paraded through the city on floats. The procession starts from Sri Ubon Rattanaram temple and ends at Thung Si Muang temple accompanied by dancers and traditional folk music.

Chiang Mai Flower Festival

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Called as the ‘Rose of the North’, the Flower Festival is a three-day event held every year on the 1st weekend of February in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This is one of the must-see events in Thailand which draws thousands of visitors. Observed since 30 years, during this festival hundreds of flowers paint the city with different hues and shades especially the Suan Buak Hat Park. The park is beautifully decorated with flowers like orchids, chrysanthemums and the Damask Rose which is only found in Chiang Mai. During this festival, one can see the sculptures of temples, animals and even scenes from the Ramayana made from flowers. Besides, there is also a lively parade through the streets of Chiang Mai accompanied by dancers and the event finishes with the choosing of the Chiang Mai Flower Festival Queen.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

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One of the most bizarre festivals in Thailand, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival is an annual Taoist event celebrated primarily by the Chinese community in Thailand. Also known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival or the Kin Jay Festival, this 9 days event take place in the vicinity of the six Chinese temples scattered throughout Phuket in October or November every year and attracts huge number of foreigners because of the extreme acts undertaken by some locals. It coincides with the Taoist Lent period so devotees not only give up meat but also required to dress in white during the entire period as white signifies purity where as people in mourning and pregnant or menstruating women are not supposed to attend the ceremonies. A select few participants willingly pierce their faces with daggers or skewers, walk on hot coals, and lie on beds of knives in order to purify their minds and bodies. Plenty of firecrackers, chanting, and a dancing throng in the streets add to the chaos as volunteers perform acts of self-mutilation.

Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival

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Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival is one of the ancient and significant festivals to the farming communities of Isaan, Thailand, among the best affordable international destinations for Indians. Entire villages in the provinence attend the festival and pay homage to the rain gods and anticipate a good rice crops. During the festival the villagers shot the rockets up to encourage the Gods to send down plenty of rainfall. Villagers create huge elaborated rockets in different sizes and stuff them with large quantities of gunpowder. The decorated rockets are paraded on the first day of Boon Bang Fai, and then launched high into the air throughout the weekend accompanied by live folk music, beauty pageants, drinking of local rice wine, and a party full of fun and frolic. The rocket that reaches the greatest height is declared the winner.

Lopburi Monkey Banquet

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Lopburi Monkey Festival is considered as one of the most unique festivals in Thailand. The festival held on the last Sunday of November every year at the ruins of Phra Prang Sam Yot shrine, an 800 year old Khmer era Hindu temple in the town of Lopburi as it is home huge population of long tailed macaque monkeys. Arguably the world’s wildest dinner party, this is a mass feeding fiesta of more than 3000 macaque monkeys living in this area of Thailand. During this festival, a huge banquet can be arranged in a true buffet style, with the local chefs spending many hours preparing the vegetarian food, including delicious fruit salads, fruit carvings, sticky white rice and even traditional Thai desserts made from egg yolk. Started in 1989, this festival attracts huge number of locals as well as tourists from across the world to see this crazy feast as part of their Thailand Trip.

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