Top 4 places to visit on a Myanmar Holiday

Myanmar tourism is known for its warm hospitality and culturally rich land, boasting of marvellous pagodas, serene beaches, nature and wildlife. Soak in the beaches, calm your soul by visiting some of the best Pagodas and Bagan temples. Myanmar is also known for its unspoiled forest areas which are home to some of the best national parks.

Bagan

You can’t afford to miss the hot-air balloon ride at Bagan enjoying a stunning view of over thousand of Pagodas in the soft light of dawn or dusk. Go shopping for lacquerware in many forms – handicrafts, bracelets and furniture. Myanmar travel will allow you to explore the archaeological sites in a unique way by renting a horse and carriage or the usual way of renting a car. The majestic monuments in Bagan are spread over vast lands and you may end up spending a day or two here exploring the stupas and pagodas which are a total architectural delight!

Inle Lake

Inle Lake is a beautiful water-body fringed by floating gardens and stilt-house villages. The people who dwell here are called “Intha” who reside in houses rising above the lake. Surrounding the lake are beautiful hills which is home to some of the Myriad minorities.

Shwedagon Pagoda

Your journey to Myanmar holiday cannot be complete without paying a visit to the beautiful Buddhist shrine of Shwedagon Pagoda. The Pagoda is covered with hundreds of gold plates and the top of the Stupa is encrusted with 4531 diamonds, the largest of which is a 72-carat diamond. This place is always bustling of devotees and monks offering flowers, worshipping and meditating.

Mandalay

Your Mandalay tour will surely be the one to cherish forever! Mandalay is Myanmar’s second-largest city which was built by King Mindon. The city houses countless monasteries, pagodas, workshops and teahouses. Throughout the colonial years, Mandalay was the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning. Also known as the last royal capital, it was regarded by the Burmese as a primary symbol of sovereignty and identity.
For a great Myanmar holiday book today with Kesari Tours and create the best memories of your lifetime.

New Zealand Trip – The clean green adventure playground & beyond

New Zealand, a country which boasts of many mystical experiences! Their historic Maori and European culture, adventure sports, ancient forests and stunning coastline, is a complete haven for a true traveler. Book New Zealand Trip with Kesari Tours and explore the uniqueness of this land, unfolding its diversity in the truest sense.

Bay of Islands

A New Zealand vacation is incomplete without visiting The iconic bay of islands, which are a complete delight for beach-lovers and water activities enthusiasts. It is a sub-tropical Northland region which stretches upwards from Auckland to top-most part of New Zealand. There’s a lot to do, when you’re in Bay of Islands! Relax with a massage or beauty treatment, relish the seafood at some of the renowned cafe’s, cruise to the hole in the rock. Or all you can do is relax and enjoy the beach, with indeed an overwhelming sight of the serene looking turquoise-blue waters.

Queenstown

Queenstown Travel will allow you to explore wineries, walking & hiking, scenic highlights, and cruising through the famous Lake Wakatipu. Queenstown is also known for the most breathtaking landscapes, which can be best seen from the air with a scenic flight. Shop in the most charming streets filled with quality boutiques, big brands and a captivating view of soaring mountains, making this the most scenic places to go shopping. Queenstown is home to the ultimate adventures with thrill-seeking activities – bungee jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging, jet boating and river rafting.

Auckland

Auckland city is all about scenic coastline, quaint beaches and some of the best known black sand beaches of Muriwai, Bethells, Piha, and Karekare. Auckland’s prominent island Rangitoto, a dormant volcanic cone, off the coast from the central city offers spectacular views, which can be enjoyed by a ferry. Apart from scenic pleasures, you can also tour up the city for a gastronomical delight as the region is home to world-class food producers.

Christchurch, Canterbury

If discovering the historic stories behind places interests you a lot, you have to visit the Canterbury Museum. The rare Maori artefacts and the stories behind them will quite fascinate you. The gallery also celebrates the heroic age of discovery and will transport you back in time with sights of pioneering days. The Canterbury region provides you eminent stretches when it comes to Skiing! Mt. Hutt is a popular Skiing destination here, which boasts of the longest ski season in New Zealand.

So, gear up for once in a lifetime, thrill-seeking, mind-boggling experience you must have ever had on a holiday. Book your New Zealand Trip today with Kesari Tours.

DIWALI – The Glorious & Sparkling Festival Of Lights

Diwali, the word comes from Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means rows of lighted clay lamps. The festival is based on Hindu scriptures, one of the richest elements of Indian culture. The celebration of Diwali festival enriches the values of these great scriptures even more. The two main reasons of celebrations according to the holy scriptures is the victory of Lord Rama & Lord Krishna over the prevailing evils of the olden times.

Five Glorious Days of Diwali

The first day of Diwali is Dhanvantari Trayodasi, when Lord Dhanvantari appeared, delivering Ayurvedic medicine for mankind. This day marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations. The second day of Diwali is Naraka Chaturdasi. On this day Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakasura and liberated 16,000 princesses the demon held captive. The third day, is the actual day of Diwali. The faithful cleanse themselves and join with their families and priests to worship the goddess Lakshmi, to receive blessings of wealth, prosperity. On the fourth day, Govardhana Puja is performed, a spiritual harvest festival. The fifth day is called as Bhai Dooj. Many moons ago in the Vedic era, Yamaraja, the Lord of Death, visited his sister Yamuna on this day. He gave Yamuna a boon that whoever visits her on this day shall be liberated from all sins, they will achieve Moksha, liberation. Since then, brothers visit their sisters on this day to inquire about their welfare.

Return of Rama to Ayodhya

Ages ago, in Northern India, when Lord  Rama returned to Ayodhya after spending 14 years in exile and defeated Ravana, the citizens of Ayodhya were overjoyed and lit lamps outside their homes to welcome their favourite prince back home. It has been a legendary tradition since then to light rows of clay lamps during this day and celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights.

Lord Krishna Defeats Demon Narakasura

Narakasura mercilessly killed many devas, which were spiritual beings. Unable to bear the torture inflicted by Narakasura, Indra sought the help of Lord Krishna, to avenge his defeat. Since then Lord Krishna’s victory is also one of the reasons for Diwali Celebration in Southern India.

Diwali Celebrations Go Beyond

Apart from the two substantial reasons of Diwali celebrations, other reasons to celebrate this festival are - In Jainism, it marks the nirvana or spiritual awakening of Lord Mahavira on October 15, 527 B.C. In Sikhism, it marks the day that Guru Hargobind Ji, the Sixth Sikh Guru was freed from imprisonment.
Amritsar’s Golden Temple, the most important shrine of the Sikhs is lit up and shines brighter than ever during Diwali.
In all interpretations, one common thread rings true, the festival of lights marks victory of good over evil.

Periyar National Park – A Glimpse into Magnificence

Haven’t you ever wondered at nature’s creativity and its true unfathomable wonders? Well, one of the best examples of natures’ artistry is the Periyar National Park in Thekkady. One of the most protected national parks and wildlife sanctuary in India, it is home to several elephants and tigers. Acclaimed, for its inexplicable scenic beauty this park is blessed with one of the richest biodiversity across the globe. Let’s take an everlasting peek into this sanctuary and create memories of a lifetime.

Peek into History

Under the Pandaya reign in the 12^th century, the Mullaperiyar dam was built across the west flowing river Periyar creating an artificial lake called the Periyar Lake, which is one of the most visited places in the wildlife sanctuary today. In the 18^th and 19^th century the Travancore kings hunted in this area, which covers most of south Kerala. In 1899 this area was declared protected land, to stop tea plantations from encroaching on the kings hunting grounds that became the Nellikkampatty Game Sanctuary in 1934.

One of the most beautiful Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala, the Periyar National Park, is spread across 350 sq km inside the protected forest reserve of 925 km. Home to tropical evergreen trees, the trees grow to incredible heights of 130-140 feet, creating a canopy with zero sunlight penetration. In 1978 the reserve was included in the government protect tiger initiative and later included in the Project Elephant to preserve free-range wild Asian elephants in 1992.

Periyar Wildlife

The Periyar National Park is not just a reserve for tigers and elephants, but you can catch glimpses of magnificent animals like the Sambar, Dole or Barking deer, Wild boars, Mouse deer, Gaur, rare lions, and the tailed macaque. If you are lucky, you may get to see Gee’s Golden Langur, the Nilgiri Langur, the Bonnet Macaque, and Indian Wild Dogs. The sanctuary is home to the Nilgiri Tahr, but seen rarely.

Of course, not just wildlife, but this sanctuary boasts of fabulous flora and fauna right from the evergreen canopy to some of the rarest species of birds and reptiles. The Periyar National Park is one of the most visited Thekkady Tourist Places today. Ecologists and wildlife experts confirmed the existence of 246 bird species, 49 mammal species, 28 reptile species, 22 fish species, eight amphibian species, and 112 types of butterflies.

How to see it all?

Why the safaris of course. You can enjoy everything the national park offers when you sign up for a jeep safari, an elephant safari or a boat ride. Have a fantastic time cruising through the lake while you catch glimpses of the wild. Missing out on experiencing the wild when you are in Thekkady, Kerala is a strict no-no.

Why the safaris of course. You can enjoy everything the national park offers when you sign up for a jeep safari, an elephant safari or a boat ride. Have a fantastic time cruising through the lake while you catch glimpses of the wild. Missing out on experiencing the wild when you are in Thekkady, Kerala is a strict no-no.

10 Places to visit in India on a Small Budget

Have you ever imagined going to the most exotic places in India in what you call as the ‘month end savings’? As vast and as diverse as our country is, it is also very affordable. If planned properly you can travel almost half of India even when you are a miser who likes to budget everything. Here are 10 places one can visit on a budget.

1. Lonavala & Khandala

Lonavala also called the Jewel of the Sahayadri Hills is located on the Mumbai- Pune express highway .Just 5kms away is Khandala.  It is a favourite spot for all the Mumbaikars as well as the Bollywood filmmakers. Walk through the mist- clad, shimmering waterfalls, enjoy the freshness of the moist earth and abundance of scenic beauty not spending more than Rs. 6000 on hotel, food and transport.

2. Kodaikanal

 The food here in Kodaikanal is amazingly affordable, be it chicken or the South Indian cuisine you can eat a hell lot of food just by spending Rs. 200 and staying here is also not a great deal as you can book hotel rooms here which are not too expensive. This place located in the south of Palani Hills is covered in thick forests and waterfalls. It is not very difficult to reach there as bus and train are easily available.

3. Goa

Goa known for its beautiful beaches have visitors all over the world, ranging from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda. A mix of peaceful relaxation but also buzzing activity, which goes into making a fabulous place.

4. Jaipur

A one day trip to Jaipur can be amazingly good and satisfying. The architectural beauty of the Pink City offers great peace and tranquillity after which you can move towards your final destination.

5. Darjeeling

If you plan to travel to Darjeeling with your family you can book economical Holiday Homes a month prior to your trip. The journey can be done by train or by bus from Siliguri to Darjeeling. The town is endowed with rich cultural history, natural resources and due to its pleasant climate all year round, Darjeeling can be one of the best places to visit.

6. Leh Ladakh

There are a number of attractions at Leh Ladakh which are filled with extreme pristine beauty. It is well known for its monasteries, mountain peaks and wildlife safaris. With regard to accommodation, Ladakh offers several options from family run establishments to guest houses to budget hotel rooms in monasteries.

7. Varanasi

Varanasi also known as Benares or Kashi is one of India’s seven holy cities. The Ghats of this city are spiritually enlightening and fantastically photogenic. Staying there is very affordable as rooms in aashrams and dharamshalas are easily available.

8. Amritsar

The place where belief and faith is more important than money. Golden Temple, one of the holiest places of worship makes your stay worth at Amritsar. One can stay at the Gurudwara by paying a minimal amount.

9. Kerala

All worries disappear as you sit back and drift past riverbanks lined with coconut trees, verdant paddy fields and colourful lotuses. The Backwaters of Kerala are a bliss. Most houseboat trips start from Alleppey and are quite affordable.

10. Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer also known as the Golden City of India, is a land of fascinating sand dunes, magnificent havelis and stunning Jain Temples. It is located in the midst of the scenic Thar Desert. You can check out the Jaisalmer fort or visit the Desert National Park all at very low prices.

Revisiting the Bygone Era: The Beautiful City of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

The Ho Chi Minh City is also known as Saigon, is a destination, which is historically rich, with Khmer roots and French colonial imprints. While the Vietnam war, which ended over forty years ago, the war remnants are attractions for tourists visiting from the world over. So, to explore the city, which offers a moving history lesson trust Kesari Tours as your travel partner.

Here is a list of places to visit to understand the Saigon city

General Post Office: 

Visiting the fantastic architectural marvels is the best way to start your historical tour of Ho Chi Minh city. Established in the nineteenth century, the post office is located near the Notre Dame Cathedral. The building is an exemplary example of French architecture.

War Remnants Museum: 

The war museum depicts the horrid past, which ho chi Minh city has experienced. The terror of the various battles that the people of Vietnam underwent during each battle. The instruments of torture, pictures depicting violence and antipathy are displayed here. The major display is of the Vietnam war, but you can also see some of the displays of the first Indo-China war.

Jade Emperor Pagoda: 

One of the most popular pagodas, established in 1909 by the Cantonese community. Dedicated to the Taoist deities, it also houses many Buddhist pictures. Some of the major attractions are the beautiful statues, delicate woodwork, and magnificent tiles on the roof. Outside the temple is a small pond with turtles floating with inscriptions on their backs, which explains why it is sometimes referred to as the Tortoise Pagoda.

Reunification Palace: 

Also known as the Independence Palace, this palace displays the chronological events that occurred in history during a war. The Reunification Palace was designed with the help of Soviet architects. It is spread across a huge area of forty-four acres. One of the most fascinating things about this place is the series of underground tunnels showing the communication system. The palace is built on the site of Norodom Palace, which was destroyed by the North Vietnamese army in 1975.

Walking down the Ho chi Minh city is like the past come alive, with some truly fascinating historical sites. From the French architecture to the American warplanes, witness the best attractions of Saigon with Kesari Tours.

Indulge your sweet tooth with Desserts when in the Deserts of Rajasthan today

A meal isn’t complete without sweets, a hot or cold sweet sugary dessert, which melts into your mouth instantaneously. Everyone loves to indulge their craving for sweets especially when it means desserts from the desert. The sandy landscapes, the colorful culture, and history in this Indian desert have given Indians and others the world over a plethora of sweets that can satiate every sweet whim.

Craving sweets already? Don’t worry ask Kesari Tours to add one of these sweet dishes to your food every day when you vacay in the land of maharajas: Rajasthan.

Here are some of the popular sweets from the desert to give you a sugar rush you crave

Chena Malpua: 

Whether you are happy or sad, this hot sweet that is crisp on the outside and gooey inside will make your day happy. Made from fresh paneer, this sweet is quite a hit during festivals and is sure to transport you to some other land.

Dil khushal:

A chewy, sweet textured sweet, it is an instant treat for everyone. Garnished with fine chopped dry fruits and cardamom it is definitely heavenly.

Ghevar Rabri: 

The divine exotic sweet is definitely the king of all Rajasthani sweets. Eat it with some cold rabri or just as it is, it’s a total sinful indulgence.

Gehun ka Doodhiya Kheench: 

An extremely rich, sweet dish, the kheench is in fact, an instant dish made from wheat. Meant to be served cold, this porridge garnished with slivers of dry fruit can keep you hooked till the last bite.

Sohan Halwa: 

This shiny, nutty sweet crackles with every bite you have. The best way to have this divine sweet is to pair it with a glass of cold milk.

Balushahi: 

Made in desi ghee and dipped in a saffron sugar syrup, it is definitely the queen of Indian sweets. The heavenly taste of crunchy layer outside coated with sugar syrup, with an inside of flavored khoya, the balushahi just melts in your mouth.

Imarti: 

Deep fried besan batter dipped in sugar syrup, is a soft, delectable sweet that is best enjoyed with a glass of cold milk. A favorite among Indians especially during marriages and festivals.

Moong Dal Halwa: 

Made from soaked and ground moong dal, this halwa is one of most flavorful sweets you can ever taste.

Churma Ladoo:

The indigenous sweet of Rajasthan served with dal-bati, can be on your must taste list of desserts if you happen to visit Rajasthan.

To get the best experience of desserts while in desert ask Kesari Tours to take you on a Dessert Safari!

Now Showing: Beauty & The Beach!

Part of India and yet closer to Southeast Asia, the amazing Andaman Islands are a bounty for the traveller in myriad ways. Whether you wish to simply vegetate on the pristine, palm-fringed sands or indulge your adventurous side, with Kesari Tours, the options are abundant.

Diving Delight

Dubbed the Traveller’s Paradise, what’s not to love about Havelock island? Silken beaches, turquoise waters and some of the most stunning dive sites in South Asia… Explore the multi-hued coral reefs of Elephant Island with Kesari Tours and watch the spectacular sunset at the crescent-shaped Radhanagar Beach. The Vijaynagar Beach on the east side with its long, tree-lined expanse will soothe the most frazzled nerves. And if still more therapy is needed, the chirping of the white-headed mynas and woodpeckers populating the forests in the interior should do the trick.

Raj Remembrance

Just 5 km from Port Blair in the Andamans, lies the fascinating Ross Island. Let Kesari Tours introduce you to its gorgeous virgin beach and crystal clear waters. This inhabitant-free island is equally famous for its historic British architecture, dating back to the time it was a British colony in the late 18^th century. Stroll amidst the Raj era houses and churches, share a picnic lunch with the resident rabbits or then simply say hello to the underwater flora and fauna as you go snorkelling or scuba-diving. Bliss guaranteed!

Coral Charm

Part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy Island charms with its serene beauty and multi-shaded blue waters. The real draw, though, is its fabulous underwater coral colonies. Choose between scuba diving, snorkelling or a glass-bottom boat – or simply do all three! - to view the multi-hued corals and exquisite marine life.

Freedom Fervour

The Cellular Jail at Port Blair, built in 1906, stands witness to India’s Freedom Struggle. The brave souls who fought for the country’s Independence had been incarcerated in this jail, made up of individual cells for solitary confinement. Now, declared a National Memorial, the historic Cellular Museum houses art and old photograph galleries, including a library on the Freedom Movement. The Swatantra Jyot burns day and night in eternal memory of those whose sacrifice we must never forget…

Tribal Fascination

Interaction with the hunting and gathering Negrito tribes, who live on the islands’ tribal reserves, is prohibited. However, with Kesari Tours, you can get a detailed portrait of the islands’ tribal communities – considered one of the oldest in the world – at the Anthropological Museum at Port Blair. A historical delight, it allows you to explore the life of the Paleolithic islanders – the Jarawas, the Onges, the Sentinelese, the Shompens and the Nicobarese. Fascinating!