Category Archives: Travel

Thailand, Tourism, Travel

Three days at Patong Town, Phuket Thailand

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Beach: Best Escape Anyone Can Have – is what it stands for. Yes, and this is true for me too. I love beaches, not only for their vivid colors, views or waves but they help me get back to “me”. I can sit for hours, admiring and getting lost in the waves. Each coming wave tells me to come out of my comfort shell, expand the horizon and not to get tied away. They tell me that let the worries drift away and think deep. Beaches make me feel heaven is much closer. Ya Ya! A lot of philosophies. Let’s come straight to Patong town & the beaches in Phuket Thailand.

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Patong town is the center of attraction of Phuket and is famous for tourist nightlife and shopping. In fact, people often describe Patong town as a quiet relaxing place during the day which becomes a huge party town during nights. So, here in this post, I have listed the activities to do during day and night, which I explored recently.

Activities during Daytime at Patong Town

  1. Hop over to Beaches

I explored that in and around Patong Village there are many beaches. In fact, the whole of the Patong village is built around beaches. So you can spend days relaxing, sunbathing, taking views and enjoying water sports at beaches. The nearby ones are Patong beach, Freedom Beach, Kalim Beach etc.

The Patong beach is widest of all the beaches here. It spreads over 3 km with a wide strip of golden sand around it.  At the beach, one can explore parasailing, speed boating, cable skiing, target shooting etc and on the other side of the road, there are lots of vibrant shops which lure you to shop and restaurants to chill out.

Patong town, Phuket, Thailand
Patong Beach

Just next, to the Patong beach is the Kalim beach. It is an extension of the Patong beach and is rockier and surrounded by hills. No water sports or activities happen on Kalim beach. You can just take awesome views from here.

Freedom Beach at Patong Town , Phuket Thailand
Source – www.phuket101.net; Freedom beach

The freedom beach lies on Phuket’s west coast. It is difficult to access and is very quiet as compared to other beaches. There is hardly any noise except that of long tail boats. One can enjoy beach soccer, beach volleyball, and snorkeling here.

Also read: A complete guide to diving in Thailand

  1. Ride till Kathu Waterfall

Phuket is rich in waterfalls too. Few of them are Bang Pae, Tonsai, Layan Bay and Kathu Waterfall. I suggest you ride to Kathu Waterfall as it is near to Patong town. From Patong head towards Phuket town, then turn left at the traffic lights next to the Caltex gas station, pass the local Kathu market and you will reach the road following Kathu waterfall. There is a climb before you get to see the magnificent views. But I am sure, once you reach and see the view you will forget everything and will say it is worth climbing.

Kathu waterfall at Patong Town, Phuket, Thailand

  1. Explore Historic Old Phuket Town

Explore the 18th century old Phuket town on foot to take an authentic feel. Here, click pictures and admire lots of colorful buildings influenced by Sino- Portuguese architecture. Many of the old buildings have now been converted to hotels, restaurants, coffee shops etc. Besides this, you can explore nearby Chinese temple. The vegetarian festival  happens in September – October. During this festival, people refrain themselves from meat and other stimulants to obtain good health and peace of mind. Meat dishes are replaced by soya and protein substitutes.

Old Phuket Town; Patong Town, Phuket, Thailand

Also Check: The detailed post on Phuket Old town

  1. Get yourself massaged with Thai massage

Thailand trip is incomplete without Thai massage and Patong is a hub for the same. There are many small and large establishments offering various types of massage package which eases your aching foot and relax the body, mind, and soul. If you get a chance, also try an ancient massage at Temples such as at Wat Pho in Bangkok. (You can read my post on Bangkok here – 10 places not to miss during Bangkok trip).

 Activities during Night time at Patong Town

  1. Bangla Road/ Walking Street

The Bangla Road is the lifeline of Patong and it gets a life when the sun goes down. I mean it’s quiet and just like a normal road during the daytime and the actual activities come into action only during the evening. The road on both sides gets packed with bars, restaurants, clubs, and shops. The walking street gets colorful and flashy. Late night bars pump out music at full volumes and many places host live music. The touts are seen everywhere selling services of ping pong and strip shows. Strip poles are placed on the club edge and many pole dancers are seen dancing on the road itself. The best part of this place is – it is safe and you can hop to a party any time at night.

Bangla Road, Patong town; Phuket, Thailand

Also Read: The best areas to stay in Phuket Thailand

  1. Muay Thai Boxing

Boxing is a famous sport of Thailand. You will find many small and big fight rings in the town. But for a real experience, see Muay Thai Boxing at Bangla Boxing Stadium. There is a huge advertisement for the fight through loudspeakers and sometimes fighters themselves promote the event. The fight happens thrice a week from 9:00 pm – 11:30 pm on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Ticket for the boxing is priced between 1700 THB – 2500 THB.

Phuket Muay Thai Boxing, Patong Town, Phuket, Thailand
Source: www.phuketstag.com

  1. Simon Cabaret Show

The Simon Cabaret located around the Patong beach hosts most respected and famous Lady Boy cabaret show in Phuket. The show hosts spectacular musical floor with impressive sets and ladyboys dressed in beautiful costumes. All the performances are well choreographed and songs are in Thai, Japanese, and Korean. The show has fixed timings and it happens for 70 minutes. The ticket costs for Simon Cabaret costs around 800 THB – 1000 THB. After the show members of cabaret pose outside for a photograph with the audience for a fee.

Phuket Simon Cabaret; Patong Town; Phuket; Thailand
Source: www.phuket-simoncabaret.com/

  1. Opt between Phuket Fantasea and Siam Niramit

Opt between Phuket Fantasea and Siam Niramit if you are on a family trip. The two are almost similar.

Phuket Fantasea is a night theme park complex which features circus performers and a large number of animals to depict the traditional Thai story. Space encompasses games, shopping village, bird cave and floating village. The dinner buffet is served before the show. The show happens for 1 -1:30 hrs and costs around 188 THB.

Phuket Fantasea Show; Patong town, Phuket, Thailand
Source: www.phuketthailandtrip.com

Siam Niramit also hosts another spectacular show on the world’s highest stage. The whole show is a delightful picture of Thai culture and beliefs mixed with humor, dazzling costumes, and spirituality. There are lots of incredible dancers giving their best.  Here also enjoy Thai buffet dinner is served before the show.  The show timings are from 5 pm – 10 pm and ticket costs between 1500- 2350 THB.

Siam Niramit, Patong town, Phuket, Thailand
Source: www.phuket.com

So, let us know which one of these you included in your Patong town, Phuket trip.

Apart from these options, there are many beautiful Islands around Phuket Town which can be explored taking a day trip. Do read the day trip to Khao phing kan James bond island here.

India, Tourism, Travel, Uttarakhand

4 Day-Treks worth adding to your Nainital Trip

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“The best views come after the hardest climb”

Nainital is the most famous tourist destination in Uttrakhand and it offers a lot to its visitors. Every traveler is aware of Naini Lake, Ropeway, Snow point, Tibetan market, Nainital Zoo etc.  But have you heard about the treks from Nainital? Yes, there are few of day treks which are unexplored and unexploited. Treks rush your adrenaline and pump up blood in the body. They let you see what others have not seen. How beautiful nature is? So, here I am listing the 4 adventurous treks which you can add to your Nainital trip.

  1. Trek to China Peak/ Cheena Peak /Naina Peak

The Naina or the China Peak is the highest point of Nainital. It is located at an altitude of 2612 meters above sea level. And one can trek, go by ponies or cabs to this point. The path for trek passes through thick pine, cypresses and deodar forests. On the way, rhododendron strewn path looks fantastic and is a delight to the trekkers. You also get to see waterfalls, water springs, natural beauty, various animals, and birds. The top offers the panoramic view of the Nainital town, the Himalayas, and the Kumaon region.

Naini Peak, China peak - Day Treks in Nainital trip

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance – 6 km from Mallital

Timings for Visit – 9:00am – 5:00pm

Time to complete trek – 3-4 hrs

Must Carry – Do carry food and water along as there are no restaurants on the way or on the top.

  1. Hike to Land’s End

Land’s end, as the name says itself is the dead end of the land.  It is located at an altitude of 2118 meters above sea level and the point can be reached by trekking or through ponies. The trek path first ascents and then descents. It passes through beautiful shaped cliffs and mountains slopes. The place offers you magnificent views of Khurpatal, nearby villages, and forests. You can also see plantation and fields over terraced fields giving the place its own charm.

Khurpatal View from Lands end - Day treks in nainital trip
Source – nainitalbuzz.com

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance – 5 km from Nainital Town and 1 km from Barapathar

Timings for Visit – 5:30am – 6:00pm

Time to complete trek – 1-2 hrs 

  1. Trek to Guano Hills

The Guano hills are situated in the Pangot village of scenic Nainital at an altitude of 1985 km. The place is away from the hustle bustle of city and offers a calm, relaxing and serene environment. The Guano hills can be reached by trekking, cab or auto rickshaw. The craggy and rocky hiking trail passes through dense forests of oak, bamboo, and deodar. The place offers you lush green spectacular views and can spot rare birds like gray woodpeckers.

Guano hills - Day treks in Nainital trip
Source -groupouting.com

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance – Pangot Village lies at a distance of 17-18 km from Nainital

Timings for Visit – 8:00 am – 6:00pm

Time to complete trek –2 – 3 hrs

Must Carry – Water and camera

  1. Trek to Tiffins Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

Tiffin Top also known as Dorothy’s seat is a stone bench built in the memory of English artist Dorothy Kellet on the hill top. The passage to the Tiffins top is a bit tricky and make sure to climb up and down with some local guy instead of getting lost in the jungle. The roads are cobbled so the trek is a bit tough than the others mentioned. The other option to reach can be through horses. The hilltop gives you the breathtaking spectacular views of Nainital town and Naini Lake. You will be counting the buildings and spending hours viewing the nature’s beauty. So it is worth adding to the Nainital trip.

Tiffin Top - Day treks in Naiinital trip
Source -holidfy.com

Difficulty Level: Moderate (as compared to others in Nainital)

Distance –4 km from Nainital Town

Timings for Visit – 9:00 am – 5:00pm

Time to complete trek –2 – 3 hrs

Must Carry – Water, camera, sunscreen and good walking shoes

The beauty of Uttarakhand state is unimaginable. The Himalayan ecology is well conserved and these treks offer a great retreat for nature lovers and bird watchers. So, add these treks too, when you plan your next Nainital trip.

Leave a comment to let us know which one you added to your Nainital Trip.

India, Tourism, Travel, Uttarakhand

5 places in Uttarakhand to experience snowfall near Delhi

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Winters are around. Imagine yourself walking on the white carpet of snowfall, in the fog with dew drops on your clothes; chilly fresh wind passing through you and touching your nose and soul. This sounds heavenly. Isn’t it? It is definitely giving me chills and pushing me to plan my next winter trip soon. How about you? I am sure even you want to experience it this winters at the destinations having snowfall near Delhi- what else you need. So here for everyone’s answer, we have shortlisted 5 hill stations in Uttrakhand to experience  snowfall near Delhi.

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  1. Auli Laga Joshimath, Uttarakhand

Distance from Delhi – 492 km

Route – Delhi – Meerut – Muzaffarnagar – Roorkee – Haridwar – Srinagar – Gopeshwar – Chamoli – Auli laga Joshimath

Best Months to experience snowfall – January – February

Expected Temperature – Min: -5degree Celsius; Max: 10 degree Celsius

Auli, Uttrakhand - Snowfall near Delhi
Source – www.uttarakhandtourpackages.com

In and Around – Gurso Bugyal, Chatrakund, Chenab Lake, Kwani Bugyal, Joshimath Temples

Not to miss– Skiing slopes (where winter games and national championships are organized); Auli Ropeway (Asia’s Highest Cable car of 4 km connecting Joshimath and Auli), Chair Lift and Ski- lift; Auli Lake (Highest man-made lake), Highest peaks of Nanda Devi, Mana, and Kamet.

  1. Munsyari/ Munsiari (Place of snow), Uttarakhand (Known as Mini Kashmir)

Distance from Delhi – 548 km

Route – Delhi – Moradabad – Rampur – Haldwani – Nainital – Almora – Kausani – Munsyari

Best Months to experience snowfall- Late December to March

Expected Temperature – Min: -12 degree Celsius; Max: 20 degree Celsius

Munsiyari, Uttarakhand - 5 Hill Stations to experience snowfall near Delhi
Source – www.gangavalleyadventure.com

In and Around – Thamari Kund, Darkot, Madkot (Hot water springs); Birthi falls; Thamari Kund; Maheshwari Kund; Potato farms

Not to miss – Skiing slopes; Picturesque beauty of Village; Munsyari Bhugyal; snow capped Panchauli peaks (5 in number); base for trekking to Milam, Ralam and Namik glaciers; and birds in dense forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron.

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  1. Chopta, Uttarakhand (Known as mini Switzerland)

Distance from Delhi – 393 km

Route – Delhi – Meerut – Roorkee – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Srinagar – Chopta

Best Months to experience snowfall- November to Late March

Expected Temperature – Min: -15degree Celsius; Max: 20 degree Celsius

Chopta, Uttrakhand - 5 hill stations to experience snowfall near delhi
Source -www.traveltriangle.com

In and Around – Dense forests of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary; grassland meadows; Tungnath temple; Deoria Tal; Chandrashilla Peak; Atrimuni falls, Dayara Bugyal

Not to miss – Camping; Snow trekking; Snow Skiing; Watching the Panoramic view of Himalayan range; Birds like Snow Partridge and photography of rare Himalayan species like musk deer.

  1. Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand

Distance from Delhi – 505 km

Route –Delhi – Ghaziabad – Hapur – Garhmukteshwar – Rampur – Bareilly – Pilibhit – Khatima – Champawat – Pithoragarh

Best Months to experience snowfall- December to February

Expected Temperature – Min: 0 degree Celsius; Max: 20 degree Celsius

Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand- 5 hill stations to experience snow near delhi
Source – www.holidfy.com

In and Around – Pithoragarh Fort; Dhwaj Temple; Kapileshwar Mahadev; Nakuleshwar Temple; Chandak; and Thal Keda

Not to miss –Camping; Trekking; getting mesmerized by the beauty of village; Views of Soar Valley, glaciers like Ralam, Milam; famous snow-covered peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nandakhat etc.

  1. Khirsu, Uttarakhand

Distance from Delhi – 321 km

Route – Delhi – Ghaziabad – Muradnagar – Daurala – Khatauli – Jansath – Miranpur – Bijnor – Nazibabad – Kotdwara- Lansdowne -Khirsu

Best Months to experience snowfall- December to January

Expected Temperature – Min: 0 degree Celsius; Max: 20 degree Celsius

Khirsu, Uttarakhand - 5 hill stations to experience snowfall near delhi
Source -www.uttarakhandvisit.com

In and Around – Ancient Temple of Ghandiyal Devi; Chaukhamba viewpoint, religious shrines, Tarakund, Pine forests

Not to miss – Apple Orchards, Snow covered mountain peaks, Thick oak and deodar forests, and birds

This is not the complete list. In my next post, I will be sharing with you the places in Himachal Pradesh to experience snowfall near Delhi.

So, check the post here 5 winter destinations to experience snowfall in Himachal

India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tourism, Travel

5 tips before finalising the exclusive honeymoon trip

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The wedding is the biggest event in everyone’s life and as soon as the wedding dates are decided we start working on our never-ending to-do list. We start planning for every single event to make it exclusive especially honeymoon trip. It is right to be thoughtful and plan these holidays well with your fiancé as it is surely going to be once in a lifetime trip.

Honeymoon Trip
Source -www.naturehillstation.in

I still remember when we had to plan ours; my husband asked me to do some research. Then he asked me few questions and my choices, to make it easier for choosing the final place among the shortlisted destinations. All this helped us in short listing and planning our holidays.

Now, these tips along with research can help newly hitched or to be hitched couples in narrowing and deciding  on their honeymoon trip.

  1. Determine how far and how much time you both can spare for your holidays

Discuss with your spouse openly how far you both can travel? How much time you both can spare for honeymoon trip? How many leaves you both have or can avail? Is travelling extensively comfortable with you and your fiancé? A destination like Europe and America require lot many hours of travelling and sometimes connecting flights. Throw in the fact of time zone too, to get mentally prepared to get acclimatised. Some of the places may be your dream destinations. But don’t panic or push on each other for that destination! You can plan a trip to your dream destination some other time.

Apa Villa Thalpe, Sri Lanka- Honeymoon Trip

  1. Choose a theme

Choose with your fiancé what type of trip you both want to take – relaxing, adventurous, romantic, peaceful, road trip, cultural or nature. A romantic relaxing honeymoon trip on the beach resort, getting suntanned and sipping wine can be on many couples list. So, one can consider Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bali, Bora-Bora etc from the long list. Streets of Paris and Gondola ride of Venice; dressed up like a princess are on the list of others. So, one can opt for them too, if looking for romantic, cultural spots.

Phi Phi Island, Thailand, Honeymoon Trip

  1. Fix up your budget

After short listing destinations according to the theme, next is to set up the budget for the decided number of days. This is where you and your partner need to sit and discuss frankly how much you should spend. There is no limit to spending but budgets always help. The other option can be to collect funding through honeymoon wedding registry . Some of the links for honeymoon holidays registry are: (https://www.honeyfund.com/; http://www.zankyou.com/us/honeymoon-wedding-registry )

Ranikhet Uttrakhand, India - Honeymoon Trip

  1. Decide on when to leave for honeymoon trip

Sometimes, leaving immediately for honeymoon trip after wedding doesn’t go well with your schedules or with the weather conditions of that place. So, do a quick research to know the weather conditions of the chosen destinations at the time of your travel. Also check for the local festivals, crowds at the time of your travel. For e.g. – If you are travelling to Europe in August, many of the towns are closed for vacations that time and in January, February it will be very cold. So, this all can change your decision. You can also consider travelling during off season to cut off the costs and experience more.

Honeymoon Trip
Source – www.destinationweddingmag.com

  1. Get Bookings done early 

Honeymoon holidays are not the time to experiment. Everything needs to be perfect. Don’t wait till last moment. At last moment, flights, hotels, everything will cost you much more than the actual amount. Look for the honeymoon packages, deals and check the hotel’s reviews and recommendations before booking. Read some travel blogs to get more insights.

Inform hotel about your honeymoon. They may charge you more but you will also get the room with better view and sometimes a complimentary dinner too.

So, planning honeymoon trip in not a big task. Talking everything candidly and planning together will act as a catalyst to your new married life. And I say travel solves every couple’s problem and it can save your marriage.