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The Clock Tower, Gurugram: Gastropub Full of Life

We all work hard to earn well, but it is equally important to relax and unwind; mentally and physically. So, this weekend, we thought to relax back and just visit the famous Gastropub – The Clock Tower in Gurugram.

The Clock Tower Gurugram

The clock Tower, Gurugram located on the golf course road, is the manifestation of concept of some great minds with a huge British style clock representing it. We felt the place is a “life” in itself; as it is not food alone that contributes to the experience, but it’s entire atmosphere and ambiance which makes one happy and this place is a perfect example of it. So, the combination of three words – Ambiance, Staff and Food, defines everything here.

The clock Tower, Gurugram

Ambiance

Loads of green and natural shades at the entrance makes the place look earthy and soothing. The statue at the entrance is an attraction it itself whereas the interiors are infused with the colonial designs. The high ceiling, tall windows, intelligently done wooden work around, plastered walls covered with the souvenirs and old time cartoons, and minimalist lights, makes the place look quite picturesque.

Charlie Chaplin at the entrance of The Clock Tower

Indeed, the mezzanine structure and decor is enough to lift up mood and spirit. The sofas, tall seating’s and table crafted on the old things perfectly gel in the atmosphere.

The Clock at The Clock Tower, Gurugram

The Clock tower Gastropub is divided into three floors and open terrace; with bar on each floor. The whole edifice is like a time machine as it takes you back to the boarding school days. The walls are covered with the memorabilia of India’s old and famous boarding schools.

The wall with souveniors of boarding schools at The Clock tower

And to add to it is the Alumnus corner on one side which has a large table with the comfortable seating to talk and relish the old days.

Staff

The dedicated, well-dressed perfectionist staff is what makes the place best and believe us the Clock Tower has it all. On the toes and with a big smile they guide and serve you the best of the menu, making you extremely comfortable.

Food

The extensive Menu of the clock tower, Gurugram serves (both vegetarian and non-vegetarian) Indian, Italian, Chinese, Tandoori cuisines. The presentation of the most of the items we ordered was simply gorgeous and appealing. The taste was at par including the serving size.

Chicken at The Clock Tower

We tried few items like Peanut salad, Grilled Fish Tikka,  Dahi Ke kabab, Pork, Dal Makhani Tart and loved all of them. The Peanut Salad was neither spicy nor bland and had a perfect aftertaste.

Dahi Ke Kabab at the Clock Tower, Gurugram

The Chicken was fresh, juicy, well-cooked and presented. The flavors too were a well fit. The Dahi Ke Kabab had a unique taste with a slight sweet tinge.

Fish Tikka at The Clock Tower, Gurugram

The another favorite to our list is Grilled Fish Tikka, which was fresh, soft, well grilled with light flavors added a crunch to the bite. The Dal Makhani Tart something new for us, had a Punjabi Tadka twist to the original Tart.

Dal Makhani Tart at The Clock Tower, Gurugram

In the main course, we ordered Veg Italian Queen Pizza. The thin crust pizza was of apt size, loaded with mozzarella, tomato sauce and basil. A bite and it was like love at first bite.

Chocolate Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream at the clock tower, Gurugram

We were almost full by this time but Chef Siddharth suggested to try the Dessert too. Agreeing to him, we tried Chocolate Cake Brownie with a Vanilla Ice- Cream. The cake was soft, spongy and the dark chocolate on the top made us say wow. Additionally, a choco-vanila ice cream with it, completely won our hearts.

Microbrewery

The Clock Tower, Gurugram has an in house brewery serving a variety of freshly brewed beers along with the finest collection of wines, liquor, single malts, cocktail and many more.

The Bar at the Clock Tower, Gurgaon

Starting with the beer, the place offers apple cider beer, German Wheat, Alphonso Mango flavored, strong/ light wheat and Chocolate Beer which are quiet liked by youngsters these days.

The menu also had a collection of classic as well as signature cocktails and mocktails.

Cocktail at The Clock Tower, Gurugram

Just adjacent to the Bars are well defined Smoking Zones. One of the smoking area is open and gives a city views whereas the other one has transparent curtains giving the open feel and is well air conditioned. The dim light here adds a glory to the place.

House on Party at the Clock Tower Gurugram

Our View on The Clock Tower, Gurugram

So, whether it’s a solo visit, a date night with your spouse, or a family / friends get together, the Clock Tower Gurugram will set your mood and make you happy with its relaxed ambiance, wonderfully flavorsome food, music and amazing drinks. The place is definitely recommended for a visit, from AllGudThings.

Gurgaon views from the clock tower, Gurugram

If you do visit this place, appreciate its awesomeness and don’t forget to let us know too!

A Special Thanks to Mr. Devki, Ms. Ayushi and Chef Siddharth for taking care of us.

You can book a Table by calling 9599199314/ 9599199315 or Registering here.

5 winter destinations to see snowfall in Himachal

I don’t know how special the falling snowflakes are to you but for me, that whole moment is extremely thrilling. I love witnessing and capturing how the whole colored town gets painted in white color in minutes. It looks so heavenly. I can sit and gaze at the snowfall for hours. They seem like cotton candies of various sizes. Anyways, if you too feel the same and want to experience the live snowfall, then January and February are the right months to rush to satisfy your eyes and soul. And here are the five winter destinations to experience snowfall in Himachal.

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  1. Shimla – Kufri – Chail

Shimla, the queen of Himachal is a colonial town. In winters the slanting roofs of buildings get covered in snow sheets and dancing deodars around it give a Paradise feel. The whole scene is a perfect postcard picture. Kufri a small hill town lies 18 km ahead and it is a famous skiing hotspot in winters. Chail known for its quietness and birds lies further 27 km to Kufri. In winters during snowfall, there is only snow, greenery and the misty surroundings engulfing the whole environment.

Shimla Ridge - Snowfall in Himachal
Source: skymetweather.com

Distance from Delhi to Shimla: 350 km

Route: Delhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurukshetra -Ambala – Zirakpur- Pinjore – Solan – Shimla

Expected Lowest Temperature: -2 to 0 degree Celsius

What to do: Play and walk-in snowfall, build snowmen, enjoy snow games like skating, skiing, and party with bonfires

Difficulties you may face: Water shortage, power trips, road blocks, traffic jams

Special: Winter Sports festival happens around February in Kufri

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  1. Manali – Solang Valley

The Manali town is surrounded by snow clad mountains on one side and Beas River on the other It is beautiful during all the months and imagines how beautiful it will be in extreme winters (December, January, and February) when there is fresh snow with a fluffy texture. Everything gets white, more beautiful, and picturesque. The landscapes get more enhanced and are clearly demarcated.

Manali - Snowfall in himachal
Source – www.snow-forecast.com

The Solang valley lies 14 km ahead of Manali and is famous among tourists and travelers for ice skating, skiing, and zorbing. The cable car from Solang valley is a beautiful ride and it takes you to the snow point.

Distance to Manali from Delhi: 543 km

Route: Delhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurukshetra – Ambala – Rupnagar – Bilaspur – Sundernagar – Mandi – Bhuntar – Kullu – Manali

Expected Lowest Temperature: -6 to -8degree Celsius

What to do: Enjoy snow games, click lots of pictures, visit old Manali restaurants and party all night

Difficulties you may face during snowfall in Himachal: Water shortage, power trips, roadblocks, traffic jams and high chances of slipping on ice. So carry snowshoes or you can rent it from there.

Solang Valley - Snowfall in Himachal
Source – www.tourism-of-india.com
  1. Haripur Dhar

Haripur Dhar is a small town situated on a ridge overlooking deep valley in Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh. It is quiet, serene and not a common tourist destination. The temperature during summers in Haripur Dhar varies from 0 to 5 degree Celsius and in winters it is completely snowing. There are awesome views of snow clad mountains from the ridge top.

Haripur Dhar - 5 winter destinations to see snowfall in Himachal
Source – www.flickr.com

Distance to Haripur Dhar from Delhi: 337 Km

Route: Delhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurukshetra – Shahbad – Mullana – Nahan- Renukaji – Haripur Dhar

Expected Lowest Temperature: less than 0 and can go up to -6 degree Celsius

What to do: Leisure walks, photo shoot mesmerizing views and visit Maa Bhangayani Temple

Difficulties you may face: roadblocks due to excessive snowfall, extreme cold, power cuts and water shortage

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  1. Dharamshala – Mcleodganj

The Mcleodganj located at an altitude of 1700 meters is a home to Dalai Lamas and has a jumbled mix of shops, restaurants, hotels, and cafes strewn along the steep winding alleyway. It lies in the Dauladhar range, 10 km ahead of Dharamshala. Mcleodganj receives a good amount of snowfall in Himachal during winters in January and February. The environment is chilling with the cold breeze and is flocked by couples especially honeymooners.  The whole place is blessed, romantic and a tranquilizer in itself, quite different from summers.

Source – www.365hops.com

Distance to Dharamshala from Delhi: 476 km

Route: Delhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurukshetra – Ambala – Rupnagar – Anandpur Sahib – Nangal- Una – Amb- Kangra – Dharamshala- Mcleodganj

Expected Lowest Temperature: 0 to -2degree Celsius

What to do: Visit Bhagsu Waterfall, climb to Shiva Cafe, roam around the local colorful market, Buy local wood and metal artwork, enjoy Tibetan food

Difficulties you may face: Traffic jams, Parking problem, water shortage, extreme cold

  1. Dalhousie- Khajjiar

Dalhousie, a quiet colonial Hill station is named after British General Lord Dalhousie. It is a tourist destination throughout all seasons but in winters during January and February snowfall adds an extra charm and cream to its picturesque landscapes. The white sheet makes the combination of white and green nature more enchanting and beautiful.

Dalhousie - 5 winter destinations to see snowfall in Himachal
Source – www.traveltriangle.com

The Khajjiar town lies 21 km from Dalhousie and is known as Switzerland of India.  In winters its huge green meadows get covered with snow sheets and pine trees in backdrop look so poetic and it is like a dream come true.

Distance to Dalhousie from Delhi: 565 km

Route: Delhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurukshetra – Ambala – Ludhiana – Jalandhar – Pathankot – Dalhousie

Expected Lowest Temperature: 0 to -7 degree Celsius

What to do: Visit potato field, Dainkund Peak, Bakrota Hills, leisure walk at Cantonment area and Tibetan market, click pictures of snow clad mountains, and shop at Gandhi chowk

Difficulties you may face: Roadblocks and traffic jams, power cuts, carry extra clothing and take precautions for elderly and children

Khajjiar - 5 winter destinations to see snowfall in Himachal
Source – www.holidfy.com

Word of Caution while traveling to see snowfall in Himachal

  1. Pack well with enough of clothes, gloves, caps, food, and medication. Carry an extra blanket for an emergency
  2. If you are snowbound, stay in your vehicle. It will be easy for locals to locate you and don’t walk out in snow storm
  3. Drive slowly. Accelerating, stopping, turning all takes time on snow covered roads as compared to dry roads
  4. Make sure your vehicle and its tires are in peak operating condition
  5. Keep your gasoline tanks at least half full
  6. Clear snow from windows and lights and check your vehicle’s exhaust pipe is never clogged with snow or ice
  7. If your vehicle gets stuck, don’t overexert to dig it out from snow. Tie a colored cloth to the antenna to make your vehicle visible to rescuers
  8. Apply brakes carefully. As there are more chances of vehicle slipping during snowfall in Himachal
  9. Keep fog lights on and maintain some distance from the vehicles moving ahead of you
  10. Equip your vehicle with basic winter driving equipment like small shovel, tow chain, jumper cables etc when traveling to see snowfall in Himachal
  11. Always keep locals no and your cell phone handy, to call in distress situation
  12. Check the weather forecast before leaving if you don’t want to be struck
  13. Most important is – Don’t panic if you are struck. Calm down and think how to handle the situation.

5 Winter Destinations to See Snowfall in Himachal

You can also check the places to experience snowfall in Uttarakhand near Delhi. 

5 Offbeat Monsoon Weekend Getaways from Delhi

As the sky pours some showers in Delhi, it becomes a nightmare. Humidity soars and roads get packed with traffic jams. But not to worry when the weekend getaways from Delhi are around only. The idyllic monsoons of Himachal invite you to get hypnotized by nature.

So, here are the top 5 monsoon weekend getaways from Delhi, that will make you fall in love with rain showers.

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  1. Garli Pragpur (Heritage Village), Himachal Pradesh

Distance form Delhi – 411 Kms

RouteDelhi- Panipat – Karnal – Kurkushetra – Ambala – Kharar –Rupnagar – Anandpur Sahib – Nangal – Amb – Pragpur

Garli Pragpur - weekend getaways from Delhi
Garli Pragpur, Himachal Pradesh (Source -www.oddroad.com)

In & Around – Pragpur Taal surrounded by heritage properties, Haripur Guler- The Kangra School of Painting, The Kangra Fort, Dada Siba Temple, The Judges Court,  pilgrimage places – Chintpurni, Jawalji, Chanunda Devi, Orchards of Lemon, Mango

 Not to miss – Narrow gauged train track; Village walk watching cobbled street, Rahat water tank and slate roofed houses; local craft, Kangra style paintings, treks, bird watching.

  1. Chindi, Himachal Pradesh

 Distance form Delhi – 419 Kms

RouteDelhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurkushetra – Ambala – Zirakpur – Pinjore– Dharampur – Arki – Tatapani – Alsindi – Chindi

Chindi - Weekend getaways from Delhi
Chindi, Karsog Valley (Source –devilonwheels.com)

In & Around – Bhima rock, Churag temple, Mamleshwara Mahadev, Kamakshya Mata, Sulphur springs at Tattapani

Not to miss– Eat, sleep, and relax, orchards of apples, dense woods of deodar and pine

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  1. Matiana, Himachal Pradesh

 Distance form Delhi – 387 Kms

RouteDelhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurkushetra – Ambala – Zirakpur –Kasauli – Solan – Shimla– Kufri – Matiana

Matiana- Weekend getaways from Delhi
Matiana, Himachal Pradesh (Source: www.youtube.com)

In & Around – Shiva Temple, Apple Orchards, Flower fields, Day trip to Narkanda, Hatu Peak

Not to miss– Nature walks, trekking, bird watching, from the hill top winding Hindustan Tibet Road

  1. Thanedar, (Birthplace of Himachali Apple) Himachal Pradesh

Distance form Delhi – 418 Kms

RouteDelhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurkushetra – Ambala – Zirakpur – Dharampur – Solan – Shimla – Matiana – Narkand – Thanedar

Thanedar - Weekend Getaway from Delhi
Thanedar, Himachal Pradesh (Source -www.tripzuki.com)

In & Around – Nag Devta Temple, Tani – Jubbar Lake, Hattu Peak, St. Mary’s Church, Parmjyotir Temple

 Not to miss – Sweet smell of apple orchards, Saroga forest walk, Himalayan walk, treks and adventures

  1. Kangojodi, Himachal Pradesh

 Distance form Delhi – 387 Kms

RouteDelhi – Panipat – Karnal – Kurkushetra – Shahbaad –Mullana –Nahan –Camp-Roxx Adventure Camp (Kangojodi)

Kangojodi - Weekend getaways from Delhi
Kangojodi, Himachal Pradesh (Source: www.vicinito.com)

In & AroundThick canopy of pine & Deodar trees, Natural Water Spring, River,  day activities like rope balancing, rappelling, flying fox, river crossing organised by Roxx Adventure Camp, Nahan, Renuka Lake, Suketi Fossil Park

Not to miss – Camping, trekking, relaxing, rejuvenating, bird watching and water splashing

So, which one are you choosing for the coming weekend getaways. Comment and let us know!

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