Every Twelve Year Kumbakonam Celebrates Mahamaham Festival

MAHAMAHAM FESTIVAL

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KUMBAKONAM

Mahamaham is a Hindu Kumbh Mela festival celebrated every 12 years in a town called Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, India. Hindus consider taking a holy dip at the Mahamaham tank on the day of Mahamaham as sacred. The last Mahamaham was celebrated on March 6, 2004, with people from various places taking the holy dip in the Mahamaham tank.

The Masimaham or Mahamaham is an annual event that occurs in the Tamil month of Masi (February-March) in the star of Magam in Kumbakanom, which is an ancient, beautiful and holy place.

This once in a 12 year gala event held from February 13-22nd of 2016. Vast crowds of more than forty six lakh pilgrims gathered at Kumbakonam had a dip in the tank, along with saints and philosophers.

The festival is celebrated at an interval of around eleven to twelve years. The festival takes place at a particular time as determined by astrological position: during the full moon of the Tamil month of Maasi (February-March) when the conjunction of the moon with the lunar asterism (Magha Nakshatra) and when Jupiter is in the constellation of Leo.

This Festival occurs when the sun is in the Zodiacal sign of Aquarius(Khumbha), Jupiter transits Leo(Simha) and the Moon is in conjunction with the constellation Maham. Generally all the these astronomical combination take place on a full moon day of the Tamil Month of Masi(Solar Kumbha Month) i.e. either in the latter half of February or in the first of March.

People are washing their sins on the holy rivers like Ganges, Yamuna, Sarasvati River, Sarayu, Godavari River, Mahanadi River, Narmada River, Pavoshnl and Kaveri River. These rivers wanted to get rid of their sins and approached Lord Brahma.

Lord Brahma advised these rivers if you meet together and take bath in Mahamaham would wash off all the sins. Hence, during the time of Mahamaham festival, it is also believed that taking bath in the holy stream of water from the famous rivers like Ganges, Yamuna, Sarasvati River, Sarayu, Godavari River, Mahanadi River, Narmada River, Pavoshnl and Kaveri River, which are mixed together in Mahamaham tank, would get rid of sins according to Hindu religion.

By having a holy dip in Varanasi, one can be relieved of all sins committed in holy place sand whereas sins committed in Varanasi can be washed off by a holy dip in Mahamaham Tank. Sins committed in Kumbakonam can be washed off in Kumbakonam itself by a holy dip in Mahamaham Tank.

Tamil Nadu Government made elaborate arrangements for the successful conduct of the Mahamaham. Tourism Department had put up Tourist Information Centres at Railway Station and Bus Stand to assist the tourists. A special booklet on Kumbakonam was also published and distributed to the Tourists.

Vajrai Waterfall – It Is An Ideal Destination For All And To Get Also The Tasty Maharastra Foods

VAJRAI WATERFALL

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SATARA

Vajrai waterfall is located just 27 kilometres from Satara.  This waterfall is the tallest waterfall of India.The waterfall is situated in district of Satara in western Maharashtra. It is about 5 km away from Kas Flower Valley.

The lush green mountains and the flowers in nearby flower valley please your senses. The pleasant weather actually relaxes you like anything. But the star attraction of this place is tranquility The place is simply deserted and there are no hawkers, unwanted guides and cameramen to disturb you.

The water of the Urmodi River comes down from the height of 1840 feet. It is the origin of Urmodi River. According to legend, Shree Saint Ramdas Swami has climbed this mountain in three steps therefore Water falls down at this waterfall in three steps.

Thousands of people from all over Maharashtra come here to visit this waterfall. The waterfall flows during entire year. You may experience the heavy rain fall during monsoon season at Vajrai waterfall. This is the place with full of natural beauty with great climate.

It is a perfect weekend destination for all age groups. Just come here, enjoy the greenery, have a delicious Maharashtrian food in the silky grain farms and most importantly forget everything in the tranquility of this place. While you go back to your places you will carry a hell lot of energy and enthusiasm with you.

Vajrai is the devotional place for Bhambavli villagers. Due to this waterfall Bhambavli village has become very special. There are so many picnic spot around the waterfall like Tapola boating place, Kas flower valley. This is reason that the tourist attracts not just from India, but from all over the world.

Nearby other places to visit:

KAS FLOWER VALLEY in the month of July to October.

Bamnoli & Tapole – for boating.

Sajjangadh Fort – Samadhi of Saint Ramdas.

Thoseghar Waterfall.

Chalkewadi for Windmills,.

Mahabaalleshwar – Hill Station

Pachgani – Hill Station

Wai – Ganpati

Gondavale – Samadhi of Saint Gondvalekar Maharaj.

Koyna-Chandoli Tiger Sanctuary

Precautions to be taken by Tourists while visiting  Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall.

Visit only between 8.00 am to 5.00 pm every day.

Avoid visiting this place in heavy rains

Prohibited to eat non-veg one km nearby the waterfall

This is plastic free zone; don’t throw plastic bags, water bottles etc.

Prohibited consumption of Alcohol

Swimming is also prohibited (Ponds are quite deep)

The place is far from developmental activities. Hence you will not find any hotels in this area. You will have to stay in hotels at Satara. You may prefer to stay at village Bhambavli in their traditional homes; this stay will give you a chance to live a rural life. You will see how these people live and earn their bread and butter. The quality of food at these homes will also be delicious that you cannot resist it. Fresh vegetables, fruits will enhance your spirits. And all this is available at nominal cost.

By Air

Pune is the nearest Airport from Vajrai (137 km)

By Train

Nearest railway station is at Satara (27 km)

By Road

There is regular bus service from Satara to Vajrai & Satara is connected to Mumbai, Pune & Kolhapur by national highway.

While The Festival The Statue Of St. Sebastian Is Taken Out For Public Veneration

ATHIRAMPUZHA PERUNNAL 

AT 

KOTTAYAM

Start date: 19-01-2017

End date: 26-01-2017

Venue: St. Mary's Forane Church

Location: Athirampuzha

District: Kottayam

Blessed on 15th August 835 AD, the St. Mary’s Forane Church at Athirampuzha oozes with old world charm and is much reputed for its exquisite architecture and historical significance. The church which is dedicated to St. Mary is a noted pilgrim centre of St. Sebastian. Legend has it that the statue of St. Sebastian installed here was brought from Portugal. The church boasts of a rich historical legacy with its collection of objects like the granite cross, altar, bells, articles used in the Holy Mass etc. carved in granite and wood metal.

Thousands of devotees flock to the church for the feast of St. Sebastian which was started in the year 1647. During the festival days, the statue of St. Sebastian is taken out for public veneration. The procession sees a rich conflux of spiritual exercises and spectacular events. The spectacular display of fireworks, music of different band groups, beaded ornate umbrellas, different types of crosses made of gold, silver, bronze and wood make the procession an event cherished by people.

Nearest railway station: Kottayam about 11 km

World Travel Market Of London Was Given Award For Best Stand Feature To Kerala Snake Boat Replicas

Kerala snake boat replicas win WTM London award for Best Stand Feature

Union Minister of State for Tourism and Culture Mahesh Sharma and Union Tourism Secretary Vinod Zutshi were among those who visited the Kerala Tourism stall.

Replicas of Kerala’s famed snake boats, showcased at the Kerala Tourism pavilion at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2016 in London, have been adjudged the “Best Stand Feature”.

The three-day event ended late on Wednesday.

The stand featured three vibrant and visually appealing replicas of the snake boats along with images and a video of a “Vallam Kali” (snake boat race) that takes place on the Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha, in Kerala.

Spread over 120 square metres, the pavilion wooed curious visitors to take a closer look at the show-pieces.

The judges noted that the snake boats made them “want to go to Kerala just to see that in action”.

“The award and response to our stand is a reflection of Kerala’s stature on the world tourism map,” said State Minister for Tourism A.C. Moideen.

“Tourism remains one of the most important sectors for Kerala and we are keen to develop the potential of the state further by catering to foreign tourists through such prestigious events,” he added.

This edition of WTM featured 5,000 exhibitors from 182 countries.

Union Minister of State for Tourism and Culture Mahesh Sharma and Union Tourism Secretary Vinod Zutshi were among those who visited the Kerala Tourism stall.

“The snake boats are synonymous with Kerala and have once again showed why they are a big attraction among visitors to the state from across the world,” said V. Venu, Kerala Tourism Principal Secretary, who led the Kerala delegation besides participating in a roundtable interview chaired by BBC presenter Aaron Hazelhurst to mark WTM Responsible Tourism Day.


Kerala received 1,66,792 tourists from Britain last year, accounting for 17 per cent of the total foreign tourist arrivals to the state.

Some Famed Foods For Foodie In Indian Destinations

SOME INDIAN DESTINATIONS EVERY 

FOODIE WOULD LOVE TO VISIT

India has arguably one of the biggest population of foodies. Right from each region to each state, we have a plethora of choices when it comes to food. And there's a major chunk of the population in this country that lives for the love of food. So much so that they can happily travel to other places to try out new flavours. Indeed, the variety of flavours available in this country is just too good to ignore. Given a chance, I would visit every corner of this country for the love of food.

Keeping that in mind, let’s take a quick look at some of the places where every foodie would love to visit just for trying our the local cuisines.

Kolkata

Of course, who can ignore the city of joy when the discussion is about food. When you start exploring the depth of it, each corner of this city would have something really special to offer. Being from the city myself, I can take the example of Tangra, often referred to as Chinatown due to its historic Chinese population, which has restaurants that offer Chinese cuisine that’s more authentic than most other places in this country. Besides, the city itself is held synonymous to a long list of delicacious that are offered right from the rolls to the fish fries to the Kolkata biryani, which comes with a distinct taste,thanks to the presence of potatoes and egg to add to the flavor of it.

Known for: Fuchka, egg and chicken rolls, biryani, sweets, jhal muri.

Lucknow

Apart from Bada Imambara and Bhool Bhulaiya, one thing that makes Lucknow an amazing place to visit is its food. Home to the famous Awadhi cuisine, this town in Uttar Pradesh owes its culinary brilliance to the age-old traditions of the Nawabi kitchen. While the different types of kebabs you get here are famous all over the world, there are many other things that attract foodies to this part of the country.

Known for: Biryani, tunday, galouti, burra, and kakori kebabs, golgappas, parathas, sheermal.

Hyderabad

The city of Charminar is not only about its authentic biryani. The local cuisine is essentially a fine blend of of Mughlai, Turkish and Arabic cooking styles, summed up beautifully with delightful touches of Telugu cuisine. What makes the flavours from this place so are the layers of ingredients and spices used for preparing the dishes.

Known for: Kachhe gosht ki biryani, haleem, paaya, Hyderabadi marag, Hyderabad biryani, Karachi biscuits.

Mumbai
The street food of Aamchi Mumbai is totally worth travelling for. But that doesn't mean the city of Bollywood, sea beaches, and the Gateway of India doesn't have anything more to offer. On one hand is the Maratha cuisine, and on the other, there's Parsi cuisine. Added to that is the amazing fusion food on offer by the restaurants, which has come up mainly due to a metropolitan population.

Known for: Vada pao, nalli nihari, boti kebab, paani puri, falooda.

Delhi

With a history dating back to the Mughal rule, the national capital of India has the ability to offer mini India on a platter, when it comes to food. Apart from its signature street food, which is best available within the lanes and bylanes of Chandni Chowk and the neighbouring areas of Delhi, the city gives a tough competition to any other Indian city in terms of the innovative cuisines, fusion food, and international cuisines offered by a plethora of restaurants and cafes that are at an ever-increasing rate. Also, this city is so full of foodies that it's almost impossible to not be in the waiting list of a restaurant on a weekend.

Known for: Chhole bhature, chhole kulche, stuffed parathas, Muradabadi biryani, nihari, kebabs, rajma chawal, chhole chawal, kadhi chawal

Some Festive Reasons Are Enormous For Travelling to Rajasthan In October

some festive reasons why you must travel to Rajasthan in October

This is a great time to travel to the state of forts and palaces. Not only because the heat is slowly drifting away, but also because the skies are clear and the views are majestic. The sun shines happily over the age-old bricks and stones, while the festive season makes the colourful state rejoice in full glory.

You see, Rajasthan is not only about history. It is about culture. It is about ancient traditions. And it is about celebrating life in its purest form. That's what happens when the state of Rajasthan celebrates for the entire month of October in the form of various festivals.

Here are the four festivals for which you must travel to Rajasthan:

Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF), Jodhpur
When: October 13-17 

If Jodhpur's Mehrangarh Fort is beautiful, then the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) makes it more magnificent. This is one festival which receives an audience that stretches its arms far and wide to many parts of the world. Reason? Soulful Rajasthani folk music, like you have never heard before. Held at various venues within the Mehrangarh Fort every year, this music festival is championed by the Jodhpur's erstwhile Maharaja Gaj Singh II and The Rolling Stones' frontman Mick. This year's edition of the festival will see the participation of as many as 250 musicians performances by sarangi player Lakha Khan Manganiyar, Scottish saxophonist Brian Molley and his jazz quartet, and Greek lyra players Ross Daly and Kelly Thoma. The performances held during these five days start at dawn with the first rays of the sun lighting up the fort and last right upto the night, when the fort's walls gleam in the moonlight.

Adventure Festival, Kota
When: October 15-17

When you are done admiring the breathtaking landscape around the Chambal river in Kota, you can take part in the Adventure Festival that the place host every year. As the name suggests, the festival is dedicated to a melange of adventure activities including parasailing, rafting, wind surfing, water skiing, kayaking, rock climbing, gliding, trekking, angling and rural excursions.

Marwar Festival, Jodhpur
When: October 15-16 

One of the most popular annual festivals of Jodhpur, the Marwar Festival, formerly known as the Maand Festival, is held in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan--the erstwhile rulers of the state. The biggest thing that attracts travellers to this festival is the folk music and the folk dance to go along with it. These songs, dances and the entire revelry is dedicated to the romantic lifestyle of Rajasthan's rulers. The music and dance of the Marwar region is the main theme of this festival. The festival is held is places like the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Mandore Gardens, and the Mehrangarh Fort.

Dussehra Mela, Kota
When: October 15-17

Living in big towns and cities, we hardly get to enjoy the real fervour of Dussehra. But the Dussehra Mela held in Kota is an amazing way to go back to our roots and take part in celebrating Dussehra the traditional way. Apart from the Ramlila that is held here every year, a close to 75-foot-tall cracker-stuffed effigy of Ravana, along with his brother Kumbhkarana and his son Meghnadh, are set to fire. Held on the same venue is a traditional mela where you can go shopping and enjoy street food as well.

pichola lake – A boat ride on the Lake Pichola is a must while on a visit in dusk to Udaipur

PICHOLA LAKE

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UDAIPUR

Pichola Lake is one of the most gorgeous and pleasing lakes of Rajasthan, India. Located in the heart of the city, In 1362, the beautiful lake was built by Pichhu Banjara during the ruling period of Maharana Lakha. Talking about the dimensions of Pichhola Lake, it is extended to 3 miles in length, 2 miles in width and has depth of 30 feet. 

Surrounded by hills, gardens, temples and havelis, Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful lakes in India and a much sought-after tourist attraction in Udaipur. The famous Lake Palace hotel is situated in the middle of Lake Pichola and is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city. A boat ride on the Lake Pichola is a must while on a visit to Udaipur. Tourists can enjoy scenic views of the majestic City Palace complex and beautiful havelis that line the lake side.

Lake Pichola reflects the cool grey-blue mountains on its rippling mirror-like surface. The lake is now 4km long and 3km wide, but remains shallow and dries up completely during severe droughts. The City Palace complex, including the gardens at its southern end, extends nearly 1km along the lake’s eastern shore.

The beauty of this lake has not separated anyone to attract towards it. The lake looks more enchanting with its scenic surroundings. Maharana Udai Singh must have been certainly captivated by the charm of this pristine lake with the perfect backdrop of lush green hills as when he founded the city of Udaipur, he enlarged this lake. He also constructed a dam made in stone that falls under the 'Badipol' region on the shore of this lake.

Pichola Lake is enveloped by lofty Palaces, temples, bathing ghats and elevated hills on all its sides. In the southern part of this lake, there is a hill that is known as Machhala Magra and one can see glimpse of Eklinggarh Fort from here. The City Palace of Udaipur broadens along the eastern banks of this lake. Built by Jagat Singh, Mohan Mandir is situated in the north-east corner of Lake Pichola.

Lake Pichola comprises several islands that accompany the calm waters of the lake. The world-renowned Lake Palace is perfectly located on the Jag Island of this tranquil lake. Even the Jag Mandir, another destination of tourists, is located on an island of this lake. Above all, a trip to Pichola Lake would be incomplete with a boat ride. The pristine blue waters of the lake leave a soothing impact on the spectator. At the time sun-set, a boat ride in this lake is sufficient to enthrall anyone.

Rudyard Kipling mentioned this lake in his Letters of Marque (1899), "If the Venetian owned the Pichola Lake, he might say with justice, `see it and die'". The beauty of Lake Pichola attracts people from all over the world. One can undeniably say for Pichola that once, if you see this lake, you would definitely fall in love with it. The mesmerizing beauty of Lake Pichola makes it worth visiting during your visit to Udaipur.

By Air

The Maharana Pratap International Airport or the Dabok airport is 25 km from the lake. It is 22km east of Udaipur on the National Highway 76. Spread over 504 acres it is an International airport.

By Train

Trains are run by the Indian railways to the Udaipur city Railway station from all the major railway stations of the country.

By Bus

Buses are available for Udaipur tourism at regular intervals from the national capital New Delhi to Udaipur .These buses are run by Rajasthan Tourism Department. 

India's First And Only Historical 7DX Movie, Pallava Dynasty

7DX THEATRE MAMMALLAPURAM

The 7DX Theatre located near Mahabalipuram bus stand screens India's first and only historical 7DX movie, Pallava Dynasty - A time travel. This 30 mins show not only revolves around Mahabalipuram but also traces the path of the Pallavas from Mamandur to Kancheepuram covering the early scriptures, marvellous temples and astounding time defying sculptures.

Tourists of all ages will love and understand this film because the stories behind the sculptures are presented using 7DX technology which makes the spectators to believe that they are watching the historical events as if they are happening in real time. 

The immersive movie experience is not just loaded with tons of visual effects, but also uses traditional art forms such as “Thol Paavai Koothu” in a digital avatar for the first time ever in the world to convey the Indian Myths.

 It elucidates how mythology relates to the sculptures of Mahabalipuram in an educative yet entertaining way. To get the complete experience of Mahabalipuram it is recommended to watch the show before site seeing. Open all days-9am to 9pm.. 

Kerala - Nehru Trophy Boat Race Packages Booking 2016

 NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE

Kerala boat race

NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE ONLINE BOOKING, NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE 

TICKETS

ACCOMMODATION IN ALLEPPEY FOR KERALA BOAT RACE

KERALA TOURS, TAXI ASSISTS FOR ALLEPPEY SNAKE BOAT RACE

9th season of organizing of this event

INTRODUCTION TO KERALA BOAT RACE OR VALLOMKALI

The Nehru trophy Alleppey snake boat race that falls annually on the second Saturday of August is a world famous boat race that still retains its amateur status. While other historic, traditional sports events similar to the Kerala boat race has turned wholly commercial over recent times, this unique Alappuzha boat race spectacle still retains its vibrant village festival spirit.

Among the many boat races held through the Kerala boat race season, the Nehru trophy boat race is the most popular. Thousands of locals, domestic and International tourists flock to Alleppey, Kerala for this particular race.

The Kerala snake boat race is reputed to be the largest team sport in the world. Over 100 rovers, drummers, cheer chanters are on board the only in Alappuzha built 'chundan' valloms for the Kerala vallamkali.

History of Johnson's event for the Nehru trophy boat race.

Johnson Gilbert, tourism entrepreneur, based in Alleppey, Kerala runs a successful homestay and houseboat business over the last fifteen years.

9 years ago, after listening to complaints from his in house guests of the inconveniences on attending the Nehru trophy boat races, Johnson decided to tailor his alternative hassle free package for the tourists who visit Alleppey to watch the Kerala boat race. To this end, he custom designed an exclusive event, in which his guests watch the race from the comfort and safety of a houseboat.

As thousands of tourists visit Alappuzha for the race, Johnson decided to arrange accommodation for the tourists and combine it with his Kerala snake boat race package. Next, he included houseboat stays as a natural extension of his Nehru trophy boat race event. Every year, Johnson utilizes his experience to usher in key changes for the convenience of his guests. One such important facility is the opportunity for his guests to reach the race later than the specified time or to leave early. This is an important arrangement as in case of an emergency, his guests can leave any time they choose, at a nominal extra charge.

His first such Alleppey snake boat race event was held in 2008 with about 40 guests. Now, the number of guests has risen to more than 200.

The USP of his enterprise is that the guests are offered an exclusive, uninterrupted view in the safety and comfort of a houseboat. To and fro transportation is included, breakfast, lunch and hygienic drinking water is included. And this year, Johnson, for the first time offers an air conditioned houseboat for the discerning clientale. This is the only way a tourist can watch the race in air conditioned comfort.

JOHNSON ' S KERALA NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE PACKAGES

On the morning of the race, 8.15 am, those who have booked the Kerala snake boat race tickets through Johnson are requested to turn up at his guesthouse, Johnson's (easy to find). From there, they are in his hands. Transport is arranged - Taxi or rickshaw - to where the houseboats awaits. The houseboat cruises through the backwaters to the venue - punnamada lake - for Nehru trophy boat race 2016. Breakfast, lunch and hygienic drinking water is included, free. Vegetarian food for pure vegetarians. After the race, transport to the town centre is arranged free for all his guests, by rickshaw.

We can proudly declare that the above arrangements and conveniences can be only offered by us, till date, on a professional, yet friendly basis.

Highlights of Nehru trophy boat race 2016

• Aircon and non aircon houseboats for this season' s Kerala boat race. Aircon arrangements for the first time ever.
•  
• Special packages for those who wish to combine the Nehru trophy boat race, vallam kali, with other popular tourist destinations like Munnar, Athirapally, Fort Kochi, Periyar, etc.
• Four seater, eight seater taxi cabs, or a traveller buses arranged for our guests.
• As usual, accommodation or houseboat rentals are arranged.
• Very Important- for those who wish to arrive late, or leave early from the race, special motorised canoes are arranged -at extra cost.
• Tourists who arrange their own accommodation can still join Johnson's Nehru trophy boat race event, by buying the Kerala snake boat race tickets through him.

Buy the Kerala boat race tickets, by booking it online. Pay through online banking.

The excitement begins

Nehru trophy boat race is known by various different names. For example, to the locals, it is 'vallamkali' (canoe games). International tourists prefer to call it the - Alleppey snake boat race. Domestic tourists out of Kerala, call it the Kerala boat raceor Kerala snake boat race. Whatever one calls it, there is a common factor that drives all to attend the race on August 13th, Saturday 2016- it's a wonderful one of a kind sporting spectacle.

Nehru trophy boat race tickets - on full A/c houseboat - Rs.2700/- per person

(Includes welcome drink, b'fast, lunch, tea/snacks, hygienic drinking water, transport to boat and transport to town center after race is included)

Nehru trophy boat race tickets - on non A/c houseboat- Rs.1900/- per person

(Includes lunch and hygienic drinking water, transport to boat on morning of race and transport to town center after race included)

Please Visit Keralatoursim

Kolkatta - Long Weekend Tour To Go And Get The City Of Joy For August 13 to 15

You can gather pleasant and unforgettable joys after sightseeing beautiful places in kolkatta

Victoria Memorial

One of the eternal impressions that lingers much after you've left is the lustrous magnificent white Victoria Memorial bordered by lush greenery and wide roads. It was built in honour of Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee in 1901, but was completed only two decades later. It displays an impressive collection of colonial-era paintings, manuscripts and other souvenirs, which provide exciting insights into Indian history, right from the advent of the British, up to Independence.

Howrah Bridge

Howrah Bridge is a landmark that has come to symbolize the identity of Kolkata. Commonly referred to as Rabindra Setu and even the Gateway of Kolkata, this structure has become the face of the city owing to its grandeur and majestic appeal. Connecting the city to the Howrah district, this steel structure runs 705 metres long and has eight lanes for traffic. It is said that over a lakh vehicles and 20 lakh commuters cross over it every day. I was lucky enough to see it illuminated by night and it was a sight to behold.

Shopping at New Market

The  market reminded as  Sarojni Nagar in Delhi. With almost 2,000 stalls, New Market is a delight for those who like to hunt for a good bargain. Go straight to the rebuild section of the market, for the famous lal paar sarees, the ones with the white and red borders that women traditionally wear during Durga Puja. Also look out for tussar and vishnupuri silk. These fabrics are gorgeous to drape and make for lovely presents when you get home. There are also several Chinese leather shops where you will get bags, belts, wallets and other accessories at prices that will come as not a surprise, but a shock. Also head to Nahoum and Sons, run by a Jewish family, for their famous fudge (but be warned, it runs out by 12 noon) and other delectable confectioneries.

Boating at the Hooghly river

One of the important landmarks of Kolkata, the Hooghly River pulls a lot of crowd to its banks every day.  I would suggest you carry your camera and a picnic hamper because when you're on a boat on the Hooghly River, minutes can very easily turn into hours. Do capture a panoramic view of the city, and of the two amazing bridges while crossing the river--the Howrah Bridge and the Vidyasagar Setu.

Chinatown

Once home to several tanneries, Chinatown now has a unique character where residents have retained their lineage yet imbibed local customs. Not frequented by too many tourists, the area is now famous for the several Chinese restaurants that dot its periphery. If you want to experience a completely different aspect of the city and of course have some delectable Chinese delicacies--then remember to include Chinatown in your itinerary.

By air

 Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport or Kolkata Airport at Dumdum is among the busiest airports in the country. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, Jet Airways and SpiceJet operate regular flights connecting Kolkata to Mumbai, Delhi, Lucknow, Agartala, Bangalore, Patna, Ranchi, Aizwal and Chennai. At the airport, travellers can opt for prepaid taxis, autos or buses to reach anywhere in the city.

By train

Howrah and Sealdah railway stations are the two main railheads, serving the city of Kolkata. From Delhi, you can take the Howrah Rajdhani Express.

By road

You can also reach Kolkata via national highways and other motorable roads. There are a number of private buses too, that one can take from Puri (495 km) and Darjeeling (620 km) to reach Kolkata.

For More Destination In West Bengal

Nehru Trophy Boat Race - It Is The Mainly Well-Liked Of All Boat Races In The World

NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE

AT

ALAPPUZHA

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race named after Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru is conducted on the Punnamda Lake, near Alappuzha, on the second Saturday of August every year.

 On the day of this fiercely fought boat race, the tranquil lake front is transformed into a sea of humanity with an estimated two lakh people, including tourists from abroad for watching it.

For the people of each village in Kuttanad, a victory at this race for their village boat is something to be celebrated for months to come.

The Nehru trophy Boat Race, looked forward to by all and sundry, transforms the calm, serene waters of the Punnamada backwaters into a beehive of activities. It is a time when festivity and joy fill the air.

Held on the second Saturday of August every year, it is the most popular of all boat races in the world. Magnificent snake boats compete for the prized trophy, named after India’s first Prime Minister, Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru.The event commemorates his visit to Alappuzha.

Apart from the races of chundanvalloms (snake boats) and of smaller country crafts, the event has in store many fascinating moments like the ceremonial water procession, spectacular floats and decorated boats.

Nearest railway station: Alappuzha, about 8 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha town

For More Destination In Kerala