Faridabad Food Delicacies

How do I describe my bond with Faridabad.....except as deep, all encompassing and eternal. I was born and brought up here; did my schooling at Kendriya Vidyalaya; pursued graduation degree from Government College and then went to Pune Symbiosis for higher studies. My childhood friends and best buddies are from Faridabad itself, and time has come a full circle, for now my daughter and my two months old son is growing up here.

Having spent so many years here, I know the city so well and that makes me love and appreciate it all the more. I have visited almost all the parts of India, but its is here that I feel most relaxed and completely at ease.

And it is because I know the city like the back of my hand that I am thrilled about sharing with you all places where you can enjoy lip smacking specialties, Faridabad and otherwise. Infact, I must emphasize as the city enjoys mixed culture so you can never be gastronomically bored here.

Of the numerous eating places, I have zeroed in on the top five which happened to be my favorites, and which you must try out whenever you make a visit to Fariadabad. Sethi and Wimply's in sector 15 had won me over since I was in school. I am a big fan of burgers available over there. Next on my top-eats list is Mircheez at Crown Plaza in Sector 15.

I usually work late, so its bit difficult to take out time to go out and chill with my family and friends, but on rare occasions, when I do I prefer Moksh and Alle's Spice. I love the Grilled jumbo tortillas, Murg Makhanwala and Garlic Naan at Moksh. For spicy Chicken Lababdar - Alle's Spice is best recommended.

Street Food has always fascinated me and I am crazy about sizzling momos available at Bercos. Nothing beats the experience of Aalo ki tikki and Gol Gappas outside Moti Mahal in Sector 16. And not to miss is – Billu is Lassi (No.5) and Puri Sabji of Chaudhary Dhabe wala.

The one dining restaurant whose traditional food will tug at you heart strings is Pind Baluchi. What incredible about the place is that the taste has remained consistent all through. I usually run to the place to pamper and rejuvenate myself with some good food and murkily rustic ambiance. Masala Dosa at Sagar Ratna is my favorite haunt for the south Indian food.

The city has become increasingly vibrant and happening in the past few years. With more people from Faridabad moving globally (especially upwardly mobile corporate class) and experimenting with world cuisine, they want all the flavors available in their favorite city as well. I fact eating out has become a main source of recreation. Some of the popular hangout spots from the youths include Pizza Hut, Domino's, McDonalds,Big Daddy, Chickenette, Sanjha Chulha etc.

After having the pleasure of tantalizing meal, head for the sparkling night out at Dazzle at SRS World City Centre, Sector 12, Faridabad. Apart from that Haze, Aqua Bar, Savannah, Pegs n Pints and Swing are definitely worth a try.

Vivek Bhardwaj and Anuragg Singh

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Winter Travel Destinations in India

The climatic condition of India is highly influenced by the great Himalayas and the Thar desert. Irrespective of the unparallel climatic situation, dominating the different parts of the country, her panoramic view can be enjoyed anytime throughout the year. We provide you some handy tips to enjoy the vibrant winter seasons encircling India and its states.

Winter season calls for a delightful visit in various tourist destination in India.

Goa: Enjoy soothing sun-shine and chilly nights at India's smallest state, Goa. Coastlines in Anjuna, Candolim, Colva, Baga etc offers the joy of Christmas party, which stretches till the year comes to an end. Goa Carnival, held in the month of February is popular world-wide. It attracts revelers from different parts of the globe.

Himachal Pradesh: Visit popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh and experience snowfall adventure. Auli, Manali, Gulmarg and Shimla boast of the snow-clad mountains, that attracts adrenaline lovers from all over the world. Skiing in Asia's premier heli-skiing resort in Gulmarg promises to gift some memorable time to adventurers.

Rajasthan: A number of heritage buildings craved out in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan is worth a visit. The Pink City, Jaipur and the Golden City, Jaisamler invites for a monumental tour in winter season. Comfortable day-time calls for a hilarious camel safari, while nights suggest staying open-air on camps under the star-kissed skies.

Winter Season Travel Tips

The wintry days are relaxing with a good preparation of how you wrap yourself against the cold temperature. Some remarkable tips to enjoy

• Beat winter with pull-overs and woolen accessories. Check out for trendy jacket and turn hot in cold.

• The best winter outfits lies in a spectrum of vibrant colors and a light make-up during day hours, while following a bit heavy polish at night.

• Dress yourself with junk items and do wrap your neck with trendy scarf or similar item.

• Increase your weight with wearing more clothes and spend some warm winter days.

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Tree House Tourism In India

How about staying at nest-like home? Wildlife tourism in Kerala offer you an alternative form of recreation at 'Tree Houses'. They are perfect shade for those who have a knack for checking out wild harbors. Places like Wayanad Sanctuary Vythiri, Mudumala, Munnar as well as in the district of Idukki in the State heartily welcomes wildlife lovers. The houses are built a top branched trees and are incorporated with all basic facilities, that a stayer looks for.

It is said that the concept of tree houses has been introduced in the Dooars region of North Bengal and was an hidden place for hunters. The watch-towers that used to be a favorite point for enthusiasts animal watchers, is being renovated to cozy houses.

Tree House Facilities

Homestays over 80 feet height is full of joy and excitement. The ideal locations are constructed in the ethnic style with well equipped bedroom, bathrooms, telephone connection, carpeted veranda and sit-out. Preparing food from Gobar gas and pampering taste bud with authentic Kerala delicacies reverberates life in Indian villages. Interestingly, meals are served on banana leaves, that one can enjoy a finger licking experience. The tree houses are taken care by the tribals, nestling in the forest areas

As of now, the type of Eco-friendly tourism is attracting tourists from different parts of the globe. Besides Kerala, home like experience in the midst of tranquil forest area in West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are selling like hot cakes. Tree houses in Bandhavgarh National Park is offering jungle living in a contemporary style. Catch-hold of the rare experience at least once in your life.

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Getting an Indian Visa

If you are traveling to India (or any other place for that matter), then without a doubt visa is a must. Visa procurement application, procedure, and attainment norms are different for different countries.

So, also for getting an Indian visa you need to follow certain guidelines so that your experience of visa procurement is hassle free. Now, let's solve this question of how to get an Indian visa in more detail.

First of all let us clarify, that for better communication and easy visa procurement that you need to apply for Indian visa as early as possible. You can either apply for an Indian visa in person or via mail. If you are applying to get an Indian visa in person then you are requested to fill in all the documents properly( without re writing or over writing) to your local embassy offices between 9 am to 12 pm or 2 pm to 4 pm.

The facility of document pick up is available from 4:30 pm to 6 pm. One thing that should be keenly noted is the fact that same day visa can only be applied in person and no mail application will be entertained in these cases. In general cases Indian visa application submitted online takes about 5 working days to process. It is generally advisable to sent your application via mail rather then personal application method as mail method is the more convenient and safe.

If you don't wish to take any trouble or want to stay away from the cross lining and confusing procedure of how to get an Indian visa then there are many visa consulars who will get it done for you. It is advisable that you choose your visa consular from your "visa applied for" land or your visiting destination. The consulars of that particular country are more equipped to handle different situations because of their knowledge and experience of working in that country for quite a period of time.

Another very important thing that should be kept in mind, on how to get an Indian visa, is the fact that you should always keep a cautious track of your visa and passport. Try and follow the procedure stages of the visa very carefully and make sure that your Indian visa procurement procedure is legal and upto the standards.

There are generally two broad categories while applying to get a visa in India. One is the business visa and the other is the tourist Visa. A tourist visa is valid from 6 months to 10 years while a business visa is valid for 6 months and more with a multiple entry facility for business person with keen interest in setting up their businesses and joint ventures in India.

Once you are through with your visa and are ready to visit India you should keep few things in mind. You should always keep your visa permission receipt xerox and your passport with you as they can be of high utility in case of an emergency. Make sure you have all the valid details about the visa consular or agent hired for visa procurement. This helps if any authority raises any questions or doubts about the authenticity of your visa.

If you can keep all these things in mind while you wish to get an Indian visa, you will perhaps have no trouble.

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How to Choose Your Tour Package

Choosing a perfect tour package involves many a element, which should be taken care off while deciding your tour. The problem arises because of the fact that we are generally caught unaware of the causes which lead to a wrong choice of tour packages. Let us identify these problems one by one.

The first hurdle that comes to mind is your own interest and choice. We often see cases where there is a possible conflict between what you want to see and what you get to see. So, you should always have a clearcut perspective of where you want to spend your money.

Your ideal travel plan in geometric sense must be directly proportional to your interest. If beaches catch you then go for a package that gives you beaches the most. If adventure is close to you then we advice you to pick a package high on adrenaline, so that you feel a sense of relaxation on spending a reasonable amount of cash and getting the most out of your trip.

The next thing that should be on your mind is your budget. You can only pick a package that you can afford. Allocating your budget first, and then deciding on your tour package is feasible. There are many a tour packages that give you a lot without costing much. All you need to do is put your head down with your travel agent and discuss the possibilities of including your favorite tour package with minimum of cost.

Another issue that needs to be addressed is that of the source by which you are choosing a tour package. In order to make sure that you get the right tour package, it is advisable that you choose the travel agent of your non native land or in other words the place you are visiting. One straight away benefit you consume out of it, is the knowledge that agent has about the place. This piece of knowledge insures that the pattern, positioning and placement- (3p)s of a tour package are in the right place. Planned team of network amongst the locals is also another benefit that you will surely avail.

Another important factor in selecting your tour package can be checking and crosschecking various tour packages at place. As a traveler you should not blindingly follow the advice of a single pattern of tour packages. You should always spend some time in verifying the right tour packages. Checking, cross checking and often re crosschecking different tour packages helps in finding the right tour package at the best of cost.

The fifth and the most important thing that strikes, is choosing the place that can offer you the best. Many travelers these days want to travel with a free mind and that too without any pre conceive notions. This is the ideal thing to do and surely you will not be disappointed. Generally people prefer getting a bit of every thing in a tour package.

One such tour package can be visiting India. A tour package to India cannot be classified as a singular one. The country offers a variety of activities and tour packages to choose from. From beaches to wildlife, from adventure to heritage India gives it all.

As a traveler if you keep these three things in mind there is a strong possibility you will be able to choose the right tour package for yourself.

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Village Tourism in India

Despite all the development taking place in all spheres of India, village tourism in India still remains a strong trend for any tourist visiting India. Many culture and heritage lovers still prefer visiting villages instead of multi faced cities of India. And that too village tourism in India is not new.

For years the growth seen in the number of tourist visits to Indian villages has been immense. In fact it had doubled over the last decade or so. Ask anyone about village tourism in India and the two places that strike are Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. Let us now discuss both of them in some more detail.

First we discuss village tourism in Rajasthan. Mandawa village has always been the number one choice when it comes to Indian village tourism. The place is very famous for its painted Havelis or Mansions and many of its lovers call it the "open air gallery of Rajasthan". If you are keen on a visit to Mandawa, it is advised to take a cab from either Jaipur, Delhi or Bikaner.

The best time for a foreign tourist to visit this desert village of India is between September to February when the weather is cool as compared to rest of the months. Though it is recommended that you bring both warm and cool clothes as the temperature varies drastically between day and night. Also make sure that you are high on liquid intake as the scorching heat in the day time can really be energy sapping.

Let's now talk of tourism in the villages of Himachal Pradesh. Kinnaur village is a highly visited land if you are on a on a tour of Indian villages. The village is situated on the great heights of Himalayas. Often the route remains close for almost 6 months a year. If you are a trekking or adventure buff then Kinnuar village is an ideal destination for you.

The nature also showers its pride on the village with many beautiful orchards of apricots, peaches, chilgozas and apples. Places like Sangla Valley and Hangrang Valley are also at a close distance from this place. Villages are an important part of tourism in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Now a note of caution, come to these Indian villages in the months of May to October to explore it better. Always carry light to heavy clothes and make sure that you that you have your travel guides with you for any assistance during village tour of India.

Probably, the youngest and the most talked about destination for village tourism in India is a land in Assam called Durgapur. On the sidelines of Kaziranga National Park, this village is unique in its own way. Durgapur tourism calls its visitors.

A distinctive village where the more than 70 families are trained exclusively just to cater the needs of tourists visiting their villages. Their training programme includes all, starting form catering till the entertainment part making it a must visit for your village tourism in India. Now you can imagine the amount of hospitality you are going to receive in this village of India. Durgapur village also proves as the mirror image of the the culture of Assam and nearby places.

Once you have made up your mind to be a part of village tourism in India then please make note of some useful suggestions. Villages in India are rich on culture and traditions and the locals take immense pride in being part of it. It is advisable that you hire tour guides having exclusive knowledge about tourism in India villages.

This not only makes you aware about the customs of the visited village but also helps you interact with the local people. It is hoped that you develop interest as you tour Indian villages as per a tourists interest and makes it a memorable experience. And always remember : India lives in its villages.

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Budget Tours to India

Deciding to travel to India is good but what is important is that you get the best of holiday deals, budget tours to India. Visitors mostly look for tour packages that have been packaged keeping their budget and interests in mind. You can get in touch with a number of travel management companies and they will all promise you to provide you with a more cost-efficient option.

This is the time when you will need to do your homework. Talk to 4-5 travel agents at one time and ask them for budget tours to India. The process will take up some time but with some good research you can end up having a tour to India matching your budget.

When you choose a budget tour to India, you should be rest assured it will be as good as a luxury one. It really depends on the caliber of the travel agent on how good he manages the budget of the tour to make it as affordable as possible. A lot depends on the contacts and the network of the travel agent.

It is advisable that you choose your travel agent very carefully for a budget package. As far as these budget tours are concerned, they are not confined to any particular region or state of India. You can enjoy affordable and low tour deals for visiting any part of India. Here is some information on choosing Indian budget tours and picking the best tour to India for your self.

First amongst the tourist choices is the Golden triangle tour. The main places included are Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. You must always cross verify the details with your travel agents. The main attractions here includes sightseeing places like Red Fort, Qutub Minar etc in Delhi and Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort etc in Jaipur. Not to forget Taj Mahal in Agra which is a must see.

Many budget tours also offer various other perks, along with these they may also add a tiger safari or any other excursions trip. Another preferred India budget tour is a Goa beach tour. Here you get to enjoy the best of beaches in Goa, along with this you may also get to see some famous temples and churches of Goa. Many budget tours to Goa also include special arrangements for a new year bash and other titles may include exclusive arrangements for night outs. More over there is something really special for adventure freaks.

You can also enjoy benefits of budget tour to India if you wish to travel to Himalayas or any other hill station in India. If wildlife safari is a priority in your travel planning then also budget tours are of high essence.

In India wildlife holidays are pretty much preferred because of the tiger reserves in the country. So, in the nutshell we can say that no matter what the choice of itinerary is, no matter what your tour plans, there are options available to match your budget for a tour to India. Now let's go through some useful details that could help you understand how to select your budget tour package in India.

You should always keep consulting your travel agent about the itinerary selected for your tour. First of all, make sure you are in conversation with not one but multi tour operators (4-5 at one time) in order to get one of the best budget tours to India. You should always keep in mind the ratio of travel covered and the quality of accommodation issued.

The reason for including these two factors are very simple as these factors contribute to more than 80% of your tour cost. If you have some knowledge about the travel plan then you can judge it for yourself or you can always ask the travel agent for a testimonial reference. This helps you get an overview of the authenticity of the budget tours in India on offer. Another important factor that helps you determine a good India budget tour is the amount spent on the aviation and internal transportation. You should always try and settle for the best of services at the lowest of costs.

Last but not the least any traveler visiting any place in the world should always be aware of the hidden taxes and charges that might be thrown at him from behind. Improper estimation of this at times can result on double the charges as planned by the travelers initially.

So, here it can be seen that the opportunities to explore India are plenty and the options available are also wide provided as a traveller you are smart enough to choose the best budget tour to India for yourself.

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