Thursday 19 January 2017

10 Exciting Reasons That Will Convince You To Make Sri Lanka Your Honeymoon Destination


Sri Lanka is a land where everything comes together for a complete honeymoon experience. The beaches and sea together with the forests and the mountains allow couples to have the best of both the worlds in this country. And, this is the reason why it has become one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world.
It is often described as a magical island, and is a highly sought after destination for honeymooners from all over the world. The varied topography of this country means that there is something for everyone who visits here.

#1. Pristine beaches

sri lanka
With around 1,600 kms of beautiful coastlines surrounding this island country, Sri Lanka is a highly preferred honeymoon destination for the beach bums. Relax with your sweetheart on the deserted beaches, or take a lazy walk along the coastline. Some of the well-known beaches are Mirissa, Bentota, Uppuveli, and Tangalla.
sri lanka

#2. Exciting water activities

sri lanka
Sri Lanka packs a plethora of exciting activities on the small island. You can try some of them such as jet ski riding or boogie boarding in Bentota, surfing in Hikkaduwa, or kite surfing at Kalpitiya. These activities are available all through the year.
sri lanka

#3. Thrilling expeditions

sri lanka
For the keen trekkers, Sri Lanka has its fair share of activities. Try trekking near the waterfall at Bambarakanda waterfall, the highest in the country. There are also numerous forest and mountain trails to experience, especially the one through the Sinharaja Rainforest.

#4. Enchanting heritage

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With a history dating back to more than 3,000 years, it is a country flooded with ancient palaces, temples, theaters, monasteries, and hospitals delicately carved out of stone. Get mesmerised while discovering the rich history of the Kingdom of Anuradhapura, or visit some of the world’s oldest cities like Polonnaruwa, and Digamadulla.
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#5. Romantic landscape

sri lanka
Sri Lanka is blessed with rising mountains, lush greenery, gurgling waterfalls, and serene oceans. A walk through the thick green carpets of the tea gardens is a must, considering that Sri Lanka is counted among the top five producers of tea globally. You can visit the tea gardens at Kandy, Newara Eliya, Galle, and many other places.
sri lanka

#6. Vibrant wildlife

sri lanka
One of the top five biodiversity hotspots in the world, Sri Lanka boasts of housing more than 90 varieties of mammals in its dense jungles. You can see the world’s rarest species like toque macaque, red slender loris, and purple-faced langur at the Yala West National Park, Udawalawae National Park, Wasgamuwa National Park, and many more.
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#7. Blissful therapies

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Image Courtesy: Sri Lanka Hotels Online
Sri Lanka is known for its spa therapies using 5,000 year-old extensive knowledge of Ayurveda and herbs. Indulge in the spa experiences in Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort.
sri lanka

#8. Colourful festivals

sri lanka
You can truly know the heart of the people of a country by participating in their festivals. Since Sri Lanka is land of diverse religions and race, there are numerous festivals celebrated here. The Dalada Perahera or the Kandy Esala Perahera is the largest parade in the world.
sri lanka

#9. Delicious cuisine

sri lanka
No romantic holiday is complete without lip-smacking cuisine. Sri Lanka produces some of the world’s best spices and tea. Enjoy walking through the heady aromas of the spice gardens at Matale and Mawanella.
sri lanka

#10. Soothing climate

sri lanka
With an average temperature of 15 degrees on the mountains and about 30 degrees on the coast, Sri Lanka is the place to visit any time of the year. The mountains are always cool and pleasant with ample greenery and scenic beauty. You can even enrol for a trek at Belihuloya or Bandarawela.
sri lanka
Sri Lanka has something for everyone! It is truly a small package filled with the best of everything good. A couple can indulge in exciting water sports on the coast or undertake thrilling treks in the mountains. They can de-stress with the relaxing therapies, or laze around on the magnificent beaches. So, go ahead and soak yourself in the beauty of this exotic location.
Images Courtesy: Facebook (Tourism Sri Lanka), (Sri Lanka In My Eyes)
Source: bollywoodshaadis.com

Monday 16 January 2017

Want to boost your productivity? Take a travel break

Remember Ranbir Kapoor in `Ye Jawani Hai Deewani`? A flamboyant travel journalist! His role underlined an important truth: travel brings happiness, which is often infectious.

It`s a fact of life- all of us want to be happy and enjoy life but pressures of life, work stress and deadlines, weigh us down and lead us to suppress our basic quest for happiness. This is one reason why periodic breaks from work and monotony are important for professional growth.
A recent research, by Mark Rose kind of Alertness Solutions, found that the respite effect of vacation can increase work performance by as much as 80 percent.
It`s to do with the brain`s refuelling mechanism. As we take a break, the body gets a chance to recover from the toll of chronic stress. Another study suggests that office workers who take frequent travel breaks return to work with better stamina and dedication.
Today, forward-looking organizations have come to accept the fact that regular travel breaks enhance workplace efficiency. While some are modifying their Human Resource policies to extend the leniency around leaves and travel allowances, there are others who are even paying their employees to take vacations. Not surprising.
Kapil Goswamy, the CEO and MD of BigBreaks.com brings forward some good reasons as to why regular travel breaks enhance productivity.
• Break=Mental Rejuvenation: A travel break refreshes your soul. As you travel, you do a lot of soul-searching and understand your own strengths and weaknesses in a comprehensive way which y helps you to be better person, and a better professional. If you have reached the bottom of your performance chart working on tough deadlines day after day, a travel break is all you need to recharge your battery.
• Builds Organizational Skill: French poet and novelist, Anatole France said: "Wandering re-establishes the original harmony which once existed between man and the universe." How true. Travel experiences build flexibility and raise the integrity of our thought process. Planning the itinerary and arranging. On the same note, travel-check-list builds our organizational skills. Collaborating and coordinating with friends and family on the trip makes us a team person. Team spirit is extremely important in professional life too.
• Helps You Stay Calm: Relaxation is an indispensable part of a travel break. It helps you break free from the robotic work atmosphere and live in the moment. More importantly, it teaches you to figure out solidarity amidst chaos. Travelers keep on meeting new people and destinations, but at the same time, they are always engrossed in a state of mental tranquility and do not panic when an emergency situation arises. Well, composure is all it takes to be cool in the workplace, right?
• Sharpens Curiosity and Awareness :Tourists are inquisitive about the places they visit. If you travel frequently, you become a good explorer. Great conversations are often the bonus while you take a road trip with your soul mates. Besides exploring new vistas and dimensions of your life, a travel break allows you to get some valuable insights which may help in your professional life.
• Gives Your Confidence a Boost: If you travel often, you may find a surprise turn in your journeys. Frequent travellers get used to this over time. Uncertainty is a part of our professional lives. Whatever the issue, knowing that you can deal with it, gives you a big-time confidence boost. This is crucial in professional life.
• Builds Soft Skills: Last but not the least, travel breaks can dramatically enhance soft skills such as managing emotions, recognizing opportunities and understanding the diversities of people and cultures. Avid travelers are forced to move out of their comfort zone and build better communication skills. Over a period of time, you build a sense of empathy for your co-travellers and become a more humane person, willing to embrace change. Besides, social interactions make you happier, as you get to learn new behavioural trends which can be significantly useful in professional life. Frequent travellers also acquire valuable coping skills which enable them to lead from the front in personal as well as professional life. 

Winter special: Take these treks before the snow melts

Winter is here and if slithering through the days in a hibernation mode is all you have planned for this winter, you might want to reconsider it.

Here's a great offer. It is time to be a winter jock this season. If you thought winter is not an ideal season for treks, ixigo the meta search engine recommends these beautiful and enthralling winter treks in India which will for sure prove you wrong.
These snow treks with all-white landscapes are going to provide you with some incredible experiences which you don't read about in the storybooks.
Chadar Trek, Leh-Ladakh
Because ice skating on the rink is too mainstream.
Hit the trekking experience of another level altogether with one of THE MOST DANGEROUS TREKS in the world. Walk on the snow blanket of frozen Zanskar River through the whirly passages of snow-clad mountains. The magical charm and beauty of the snowy valleys are unparalleled. The temperature of the region drops as low as -20-degree celsius by the night. You might want to work on your stamina before you embark on this exhilarating journey.
Altitude: 3,322 m
Level: Difficult
Duration: 9 days, 8 nights
Trek length: 70-100 km
Roopkund Trek, Uttarakhand
A trek to the mystery lake.
A lake filled with 200 human skeletons, perched in the lap of Mt. Trishul! You ought not to miss the spooky yet exciting trek to the Roopkund Lake. The mysterious meanderings of the skeleton lake have fascinated many trekkers and travellers. The trek trail goes through beautiful Rhododendron forests, mountain rivers, and scenic meadows. If you are an avid trekker, put this fascinating winter trek in Uttrakhand on your list.
Altitude: 5,029 m
Level: Moderate
Duration: 8 D/ 7N
Trek Length: 53 km
Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand
A whiplash with snowy delights.
One of the easiest treks in the Himalayas, Kedarkantha winter trek is a delight for those who like the snow. The trek spans through astounding landscape passing through beautiful hamlets, snowy courses, and breathtaking views of majestic Himalayas. Feel yourself lucky gazing at the great mountain ranges, such as Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Black Peak. It is a great getaway trek from Delhi. Do not forget to make a snowman.
Altitude: 3,850 m
Level: Easy
Duration: 6D/5N
Trek Length: 20 km
Nag Tibba Trek
Trek all the way to the humble abode of Nag Devta.
Humming with a rich diversity of birds and animal, Nag Tibba trek is a visual treat for the first time trekkers. Be a spectator to the splendid views of Chanabang and Doon Valley and the great Gangotri Peaks. It is a circular trek which at no point overlaps the trail. Hence, enjoy a myriad of delighting nature scenes. Another great thing about this trek is its exquisite camping sites.
Altitude: 3,050 m
Level: Easy
Duration: 3D/2N
Trek Length: 20 km
ChoptaChandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand
Lo, and behold the beautiful panoramas of the Garhwal region!
Chandrashila Trek is an all-season trek that provides you with all-embracing views of the Garhwal Himalayas and the beautiful views of Nanda Devi, Kedar, Trishul and Chaukhamba peaks. Chopta, 'the Mini Switzerland of India', is where you will get a chance to surpass breathtaking pastures laden with snow. This winter trek in India takes you through Tungnath, where the highest temple of Lord Shiva is situated.
Altitude: 4,023 m
Level: Easy
Duration: 5D/4N
Trek Length: 20 km
Brahma Tal Trek, Uttrakhand
Return to the blue lagoon!
A rare and exceptional winter trek, Brahmatal Trek could be the best trek of your life. A good dollop of snow and a beautiful lagoon nestled between the snow-capped mountains are enough reasons to go for this winter trek. The trails wind through verdant forests and beautiful meadows, which will sure take your breath away. The views that this trek offers will leave you gaping out of wonder and delight.
Altitude: 3,352 m
Level: Moderate
Duration: 6D/5N
Trek Length: 30 km
Harki Dun Trek, Uttrakhand
Arrive at the amphitheater of Gods!
Boy! This trek is a bundle of joy with its beautiful valleys and amazing views that feel straight out of a fairytale. The arduous trek is a delight in winter springs with everything covered in an ivory sheen. Walking through the snowy trail, one can see the lofty mountain peaks rising on either side of the valley. This winter trek should be on every trekking enthusiast's list.
Altitude: 3,566 m
Level: Difficult
Duration: 8D/7N
Trek Length: 77 km
Goecha La Trek, Sikkim
Perch in nature's lap.
Cradled between the imposing peaks of Sikkim, Nepal, China, and Bhutan, lies a land of unparalleled beauty which invites trekkers and adventurists. Embark on the daredevil Goecha La trek that passes through scenic Yuksom-Dzongri pass and grand views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Feel close to nature as you pass through the forests of Rhododendrons to the valleys wrapped with lichens and moss.
Altitude: 4,206 m
Level: Difficult
Duration: 10 D/9 N
Trek Length: 60 km on one side
Kauri Pass Trek, Uttarakhand
A snow-laden paradise!
The greatest discovery of Lord Curzon, Kauri Pass in Uttarakhand is one of the best places to trek in December. The trek begins from Joshimath which is an evolved hub for trekkers and pilgrims. Behold the imposing views of the stalwart Himalayan peaks and confluences of the buzzing rivers. Walk through the luxurious Himalayan meadows called 'Bugyals' and the verdant Oak and Deodar forests where you may even find the pug marks of a leopard or the Himalayan Black Bear.
Altitude: 4,268 m
Level: Moderate
Duration: 4 -6 days
Trek Length: 33 km
Still planning to stay indoors this winter? Let's hope not. Be a sport and build some endurance before you set about on these intriguing winter treks in India. If not now, when?

Saturday 14 January 2017

Most Romantic Honeymoon Destinations In India For Couples Who Love Snow


India offers a variety of stunning and breathtaking getaway destinations for newlywed couples in love. From relaxing and romantic beaches to alluring and exotic hills, we have it all here. And, if it is the cold, snow-capped mountains that beckon you, then too India will spoil you with options.
Well, there is nothing quite as romantic as curling up with your beloved in front of a fireplace as the chill breeze blows softly outside the room. Here are some amazing snow-covered destinations that newlyweds would find perfect for a romantic experience that they will never forget.

Auli, Uttarakhand

Image Courtesy: Rajesh- Flickr
Images Courtesy: Ajay Bhatt (via Himalayan Snow Runner Facebook Page)
Also known as “Bugyal” by the locals, Auli lies on the way to Badrinath. It is a beautiful spot offering panoramic sights ranging from snow-capped mountains to dense coniferous forests. If you are a fan of adventure sports, don’t forget to try your hand at skiing here. With slopes over 2500 to 3000 meters high, it is the perfect skiing destinations for experts and beginners alike.
Images Courtesy: Ajay Bhatt (via Himalayan Snow Runner Facebook Page)
What’s more? Auli is also the home to the world’s highest man-made lake, which is situated right next to the private hotel, Clifftop Club.
Image Courtesy: aceguide.blogspot.in

Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

There is nothing more spectacular or serene than the snow-covered Gulmarg. Visit this chilly hill station to steal the opportunity of cuddling up with your better half, in front of the fireplace as the temperature dips outside.
Image Courtesy: http://india-hill-stations1.blogspot.in/
The snow-covered peaks provide amazing skiing trails. Nature lovers can admire the beautiful flora and fauna here, especially in Khilanmarg. Also, visit Alpather Lake, which is about 13 kms from Gulmarg.
Alpather Lake, Gulmarg. Image Courtesy: Visit India Help
And, a Gondola ride must not be missed if you are visiting Gulmarg. Well, we don’t mean the kind of ‘gondola’ you would find in Venice. Gulmarg Gandola, is Asia’s highest and longest cable car project.
Images Courtesy: Gulmarg Gondola (Official Facebook Page)
What’s more? Gulmarg has made quite a mark in Bollywood as well. From Bobby to Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Highway and Haider, have all been shot in this hill station. Another exciting tit-bit that we are sure would excite you Bollywood fans is that there is a hut in Gulmarg where a scene from the movie Bobby was shot, and it is now known as Bobby Hut.
Gulmarg Golf Club. Image Courtesy: Gulmarg Kashmir (Facebook Page)

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

It has been a favourite honeymoon destination for couples since ages, yet it never seems to lose its appeal.
Spectacular view of snow-covered Manali. Image Via: Snow-Forecast
With options like skiing and ice-skating, Manali is the dreamland for those who love sports. For nature lovers, the snow-capped peaks, clear rivers and vast green meadows can be a sight to soothe the soul.
Image Courtesy: Old Manali (Facebook Page)
Images Via: http://india-hill-stations1.blogspot.in/
What’s more? In Manali, you can also indulge in adventurous activities like para gliding and river rafting. And yes, do head out to the Rohtang Pass to romance in the arms of snow-capped mountain as you enjoy hot noodles and soup with your sweetheart.
Snow Fall in Manali. Image Via: Himachal Live

Nainital, Uttarakhand

Not too far from the capital of the country, lies this gorgeous town that offers escape from the city life. Another popular spot amongst honeymooners in India, Nainital is a place you must visit during the colder months of December-January.
Images Courtesy: Anup Sah (Via: "Abhivyakti": Expression Through Photography Blog)
It is the best time to enjoy the trekking routes along snow-covered Nanda Devi Peak. And yes, not to forget the Snow View Point, which is known to be one of the coldest areas of Nainital, and is a perfect spot to view the snow-covered peaks here. You can also hire a pony or horse to visit the Snow View Point, Tiffin Top and Kilburi.
Image Courtesy: Anup Sah
What’s more? Nainital is also known as the ‘Lake District’, because of the several pristine lakes here. So, do make it a point to indulge in a boat ride in the Naini Lake and take a walk along the Bhimtal Lake. And then, there is Sattal Lake, Saritatal Lake, Sukha Tal Lake, Naukuchiatal Lake and Khurpatal Lake.
Image Courtesy: Maps Of India
Images Courtesy: Anup Sah

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Any list of popular hill station destinations for honeymoon cannot miss out on Shimla. Mid-December is the most favoured time for honeymooners and tourists to visit this place. It is also the time when the town is covered in white, giving it a surreal look.
Image Courtesy: Shimla Life
Image Courtesy: http://shanekaram.wordpress.com/
What’s more? You just can’t miss out on taking a ride on the popular Kalka-Shimla Toy Train, which is one of the most important highlights of Shimla. Also, do visit Summer Hill, which is a suburb of Shimla, situated about 5 kms west to Shimla Ridge. It is an off-beat tourist destination that you will love for its natural beauty. And, here you can also take a horse ride through the dense Cedar and Oak forests.
Image Courtesy: Maps Of India
Image Courtesy: Shashank Sharma (Via: Wikipedia)
Image Courtesy: https://indiatravelpackageblog.wordpress.com

Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

A place that is a paradise for skiing fans, Kufri offers snow covered skiing slopes during the winter months. It is just about 13 kms from Shimla. A visit to this place will convince you of the picture perfect beauty of this snow-covered valley and the coniferous trees in the backdrop.
Image Courtesy: Go2India
What’s more? Once there, do go hiking around the Mahasu Peak. Also, spend some time at the Indira Tourist Park that offers a panoramic view of Kufri and surrounding locations. And, visit Himalayan Nature Park, a small zoo that is the home to a variety of rare animals like Felines, Antelopes, and the state bird of Himachal Pradesh, Himalayan Monal, among others. 
Images Via: HolidayIQ
So, are you ready to make your honeymoon all the more romantic by visiting any of these destinations that promise snow, skiing and enough opportunities to snuggle up with your beloved?

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