UPCOMING FESTIVALS AND CULTURAL EVENTS AN INDIA IN JUNE 2019

Home to more than a hundred million religions, India has been blessed with a rich cultural diversity. With such prolific cultural diversity, the denizens of this prosperous country enjoy the colors and flavors of every major religion in the world.

Due to the presence of a plethora of cultural ethnicities and religions, the people of the Indian subcontinent savour festivals that may be rare in other countries, but is a usual occurrence for the ‘land of diversity’.

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With a festival or a cultural event round the corner every month, India elucidates itself to be titled as the ‘Land of Festivals’. So, here goes an insight of some of the major festivals that take place in this ‘Land of Festivals’ in the month of June:

1. Eid Ul-Fitr

Being the second largest religion of India, in Islam Eid Ul-Fitr constitutes itself to be a major festival for Muslims all across the country. Eid Ul-Fitr marks the conclusion of Ramadan, that is, the period of fasting for a month and feasting just once during the day called Iftar, and hence Eid Ul-Fitr is celebrated with great grandeur on June 5^th.

This time of the year is earmarked with streets embellished with decorations and crowded with street hawkers and vendors selling their delicious delicacies of varieties of biryani and meat, which attracts tourists from all over the globe.

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The festival is celebrated all across the country, though there are certain places in which the festival is celebrated at full swing such as Hyderabad, Old Delhi and Lucknow. 

2. Shimla Summer Festival

The Shimla Summer Festival marks the arrival of summer and the joyous opportunity to celebrate a satisfied bounty of harvest.

With activities ranging from live music to folk dances and from the fashion shows to the much awaited flower show which immerses Shimla in the vibrant colors of flora, the Shimla Summer Festival surely does offer the perfect amalgamation of entertainment and serenity to the soul.

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Being celebrated since the 1960’s, the festival has never failed to attract tourists from across the world to turn up and feel this experience first hand. Providing recreation to the travelers for years, the festival is held between 2^nd to 7^th June.

3. Ganga Dussehra 

Providing the elixir of life for thousands of years, Ganga has been of paramount importance, for the well being of both the nature’s ecosystem as well as for the contentment for the soul.

Marking the day when Goddess Ganga came down upon earth from heaven, the festival is attended by thousand of devotees who take a dip in the ghats of the holy river to obliterate their sins.

The event attracts travelers who want to take a glimpse of the true Hindu culture.

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As Ganga flows through a number of places, Ganga Dussehra is celebrated all over the country but celebrated with full swing at Varanasi. The festival is celebrated on the 12^th of June.

4. Sindhu Darshan Festival

Celebrating unity in diversity and communal harmony, the Sindhu Darshan Festival is held at Shey Manla, 8 kilometers from Leh. With local artists coming to display their talents, the festival truly intrigues the foreign tourist.

Experiencing the local talent along with the mountainous landscape, is enough to inculcate the tourist to fall in love with the Indian culture.

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Being celebrated between 12^th June to 14^th June, the festival helps the tourist to beat the heat of the summer and as well as be mesmerized with the local talent.

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Rann of Kutch Festival 2019

Gujarat never fails to amaze and its amazement lies in a celebration at the largest tent city situated in the heart of Kutch District – The Rann of Kutch. This celebration is also known as “Rann Utsav”. It is one of the most stunning tourist destinations to travel to, with friends as well as family either on short weekends or on long sojourn.

When the Rann Utsav does starts?

Rann Utsav is organized by the tourism of Gujarat. It takes place when the air is crisp and the moon is at its fullest. The year 2018 – 19 version is scheduled from Nov 1^st, 2018 to Feb 20^th, 2019.

The festival begins in Bhuj, and the entire district goes gala during the celebrating months. The finale of the festival is put up at a tent city; a city made of more than 400 AC and non AC tents. It is set up near a small village called Dhordo, which is easily accessible from the Bhuj airport.

Things to do at Rann Utsav

The list is long when you’re at the greatest desert festival in Asia:

1.    Go on a date with the Moon

It gets more romantic than words with white expanse of serene sand under the full bloom of the moon.

2.    Wallow in the cultural fiesta in the desert

Experiencing cultural fiesta when in Kutch is a must. In the fest, artist from all corners of Gujarat gathers to perform. They perform almost everywhere and every moment.

3.    Sightseeing and adventurous tours

In the Rann utsav, one can enjoy range of innumerable experiences. One can go for solo ride on the desert on a DPV (Desert Patrol Vehicle). Desert safari is another exhilarating activity to look out for. The festival also offers moderate adventure for kids as well. Also, if you’ve a good budget for your vacation to Rann Utsa, you can also enjoy hot air balloon kutch.

4.    Birding above Kutch

Take a hot air balloon ride and get the experience of overlooking the vibrant hues of the salt sand from the top is so enchanting that you will develop a compulsion to talk and think about.

5.    Beaching in Mandvi

Don’t forget to visit the nearby villages of Bhirandiyra, Khavda and Gandghi – Nugam as they arrange workshops for amazing handcrafted textile and fabrics.

6.    Shopping

No vacation is complete without shopping. And Rann Utsav will offer you various options to quench your shopping thirst. Things to buy from Rann of Kutch are exotic handcrafted Gujarati articles, leather articles, splendid silverware, intricate kutchi embroidery, and beautifully crafted ornaments.

7.    Indulge in the food at Rann Utsav

To make your experience more memorable, it’s a must to try food at the fest. Indulging in Kutchi cuisines is a must. Besides, there are food corners that cater to the hunger calls at the odd hours at night.

How to reach the fest?

To make the travel convenient, Bhuj has an airport which is 86 km from Dhordo-the tent city. Bhuj is also the nearest railhead. However, if you’re travelling from Mumbai, Kutch Express will take you to Gandhi Dham and again, Dhordo is 135 km from here. The road connectivity is not an issue and all the major cities of Gujarat are well commuted by state-run transport buses.

Here are few more checks before you set your journey to Kutch:

1.    Book your accommodation at least 45 days in advance

2.    The temperature is usually extreme between day and night. Pack your bags accordingly

3.    You need to get a government pass in order to visit Kutch due to the border proximity. You can easily get these passes from the check post at Bhirandirya by producing your I-card

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International Kite Festival 2019

India is a melting pot of various culture and traditions. It’s a land of festival. Another most popular festival in India is International Kite Festival in Gujarat and is considered to be one of the most vibrant and multi-colored festivals which is celebrated since 1989 in India.

This festival is also known as Uttarayan and is one of the most important occasions for Indians. This day marks the change of winter season in to summers and signifies harvesting season for the farmers. It is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals and is celebrated with much fervor and enthusiasm within the Gujarat community while many visitors from across the world.

International Kite Festival Dates  

International Kite Festival is celebrated every year on 14^th January, on the day of Makar Sankranti as it is observed in North India or Uttarayan Gujarat. In Tamil Nadu, the day is celebrated as Pongal which is again a harvest festival and is observed with great fervor in South India.

How to reach?

There are various modes of transportation to reach International Kite Festival.

ü By Air – Sardar Vallabhai Patel international airport provides excellent air facilities for both domestic and international flights. Being a major destination, the airport is connected to all major destinations inside India like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai etc. and there are numerous regular flights from these locations

ü By Rail – In Gujarat, Ahmadabad is a major station which is well-connected to other parts of the country through railway lines and there are regular trains from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore

ü By Road – Roads are also in excellent conditions which are also well-maintained. The capital of the city is linked through all the important cities such as Surat, Pune, Mumbai, Shirdi, Udaipur, Bhavnagar and Gandhinagar.

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Dubare Elephant Camp

Dubare which is also popular for its elephant camp is one of the most fun things to do when in Karnataka. This place has over 150 elephants, where you can visit and get a chance to know these enchanting creatures.

This forest camp is situated on the banks of the river Kaveri in the district of Kodagu, Karnataka. It is an important base of Karnataka Forest Department’s elephants.

Dubare is also home to many moist deciduous forests, wild animals and birds. Here one can see wild Asiatic elephants are regular and so are spotting the sambhar, spotted deer, tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and gaur. Bears are also seen in these forests. Crocodiles can be seen in the river. The forests are also home to many reptiles and non-venomous snakes.

Birdlife in Dubare has peacocks, partridges, kingfishers and woodpeckers topping the list.

Pay a visit to the Dubare Elephant Camp and watch the elephants being given a bath, fed and trained by Mahouts. Also take a coracle ride on the River Cauvery and spot a crocodile, gaur, the wild dog, sloth bear, and peacocks.

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Must See Jaipur Attractions

Jaipur the capital of the Indian State of Rajasthan is one of three cities throughout India, also known as ‘Golden Triangle’. This city is surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains in the area. This was also ranked by Conde Nast as the 7^th best place to visit in Asia. However, the beautiful architecture and pink-painted avenues are really what makes Jaipur stunning.

Places to Visit in Jaipur

1.   Amer Fort

Recently, this fort has got a lot of spotlight on due to its popularity among Indian film industry. Apart from that this fort is famous for its endearing mirror work; the fort and its history come alive with the evening light and sound show.

Entry Fee –

ü Foreigners: INR 200 for adults, 100 for students (inclusive of entry and camera)

ü Indians: INR 25 for adults, INR 10 for students (inclusive of entry and camera)

ü Amber By Night: INR 100 per person

ü Light and Sound show: INR 200 for English show, INR 100 for Hindi show

Visiting Hours -  

ü Fort: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

ü Light and Sound Show: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm (English). 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

2.   Jaigarh Fort

Another must visit fort is Jaigarh fort, which is also famous for being world’s largest cannon on wheels. Also, a significant structure of the medieval period – Diwa Burj – has been maintained very well over the year. The watch tower offers a scintillating view over the plains.

Entry Fee –

ü Indians: INR 35

ü Foreigners: INR 85

Visiting Hours –

ü 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

3.   Nahargarh Fort  

Also known as the “the abode of the tigers”, this fort is situated high up on the Aravali hills. It is one of the most popular places in Jaipur. Its enchanting sunset views overlooking the entire Jaipur city is the most breathtaking view of Jaipur. It’s also a famous picnic spot as there is a café inside that serves snacks and drinks.

Entry Fee –

ü Foreigners: INR 50 for adults, INR 25 for students

ü Indians: INR 20 for adults, INR 5 for students

Visiting Hours –

ü 10:00 am – 5:30 pm

4.   City palace

Another most popular tourist place in Jaipur is the city palace. It’s famous for its serene amalgamation of rich Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace has vast courtyards, gardens, a museum, art gallery and a fascinating display of royal costumes old weapons

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Entry Fee –

ü Foreigners: INR 350 for adults

ü Indians: INR 75 for adults

Visiting Hours:

ü 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

5.   Jal Mahal

Located in the middle of Lake Man Sagar, Jal Mahal is one of the best places to be it when in Jaipur. This 5-storeys beneath the surface of water that offers unique underwater viewing experiences. The architecture of this palace is a fusion of Mughal and Rajput styles.

 

Entry Fee –

ü Foreigners: INR 50

ü Indians: INR 10

ü Camel Rides: INR 150

Visiting Hours –

Visiting the palace is restricted

6.   Hawa Mahal

Another most popular architecture to see in Jaipur is Hawa Mahal. As the name suggest (Hawa Mahal – Palace of winds), this immensely breezy palace provides a spectacular view of the city below. The panoramic views of the palace and the shimmering city are a treat to the eyes.

Entry Fee –

ü Foreigners: INR 50 for adults

ü Indians: INR 10 for adults

Visiting Hours –

ü 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

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5 Delicious Indian Sweets

India is a country full of festivities. And festivals are incomplete without the sweets. We have listed out top 5 sweet delicacies in India which are a must try when in India:  

1.   Moong Dal Laddu

Moong Dal laddu is a traditional Indian sweet which is prepared especially during festivals. To make this dish, one requires three ingredients such as moong dal or yellow dal, sugar, ghee or clarified butter. Moong dal laddus are perfect snacks which fulfills the entire carbs requirement.

2.   Chocolate Burfi

Chocolate burfi is another most favorite type of sweet of Indians. It’s khoya burfi or mawa burfi. The chocolate is two layered burfi recipe, where the bottom layer is plain mawa layer and the top layer is chocolate flavored.

3.   Kalakand

 Kalakand is another Indian sweet which is relished by almost every Indian, made with sweetened milk and paneer. This soft fudgy and crumbly Indian dessert which is gluten-free as well is very easy to make with just two ingredients such as paneer and condensed milk.

4.   Motichoor Laddoo

Motichoor ladoo or Boondi Na Ladva is another popular sweet of India. It is made with chickpea pearls called boondi and saffron and cardamom flavored sugar syrup.

5.   Kesar Mohan Thal

Mohan Thal or also known as Gram Flour Fudge is a traditional Gujrati and Rajasthani sweet which is flavored with saffron and Nuts. It tastes delicious, soft, sweet and yum yum. A Perfect sweet for any festival to celebrate with.

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Things to Do in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a tehsil in Dehradun district of the state of Indian state, Uttarakhand. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, Rishikesh is surrounded by three districts: Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, and Haridwar. It is approximately 25 km north of the city Haridwar and 43 km southeast of the state capital Dehradun. It’s also known as the pilgrimage town and regarded as one of the holiest places to Hindu.

Here is a list of things which you can do on your next trip to Rishikesh:

1.   White Water Rafting

The stretch from Kaudiyala to Ram Jhula (Nim Beach) has a lot of rapids ranging from Grade I to IV making Rishikesh popular as a white water rafting destinations. Rafting is done in the following stretches:

ü Brahmpuri to Nim Beach (9 kms)

ü Shivpuri to Nim Beach (16 kms)

ü Marine Drive to Ni8m Beach (24 kms)

ü Kaudiyala to Nim Beach (32 kms)

Some of the major rapids which one can face are Cross Fire (Grade 3), Three Blind Mice (Grade 3), The Wall (Grade 4), Roller Coaster (Grade 3), Golf Course (Grade 3) etc.

Rafting Charges in Rishikesh: Rs 400 to 1300 (charges for river rafting in Rishikesh gets cheaper in packages)

2.   Bungee Jumping

Rishikesh has a lot to offer when it comes to adventure. Bungee Jumping is yet another of fun things to do in Rishikesh with friends. Feel your heart pound as you kiss gravity losing yourself in the air from a height    of more than 80 meters above the ground.

Where to do Bungee Jump in Rishikesh: Jumping Heights, Mohanchatti

Age Limit: Minimum 12 years

Weight Requirement for Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh: 35-110 kg

Timings: 9:30 am to 3:30 pm

3.   Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is another adventure in Rishikesh. It is something which will leave the adventure junkie in awe. Peddle through the rocky terrains, mud and woods and let the adrenaline flow through you.

There are various bicycles/bike which are available on rent. Many camps and tour agents also provide mountain biking as one of the activities in Rishikesh.

Mountain Biking Route: Rishikesh and surrounding areas are all yours to explore

Best Time for Mountain Biking in Rishikesh: Anytime is the best time. Try to avoid in monsoons

4.   Flying Fox       

With a harness tied to you, you roll down with the wire up to 7 meters from the ground at the speed of about 160 km/ hr, and then go back up. Usually flying fox in Rishikesh is done by 3 people together, but if someone wishes to do it alone it is possible by paying extra charges.

Minimum Age Requirement: Minimum 12 years

Weight Requirement: 10-130 kg

Charges for Flying Fox in Rishikesh: Rs 1199-1399

Where to Try Flying Fox in Rishikesh: Shivpuri

5.   Cliff Jumping

As Rishikesh falls in Shivalik region there are cliffs with varied heights, cliffs that are embraced by holy Ganges, this geographical phenomenon led to the introduction of cliff jumping in Rishikesh.

Average height of Cliffs: 20 feet (10 feet if the water level rises)

Where to do cliff jumping in Rishikesh: 2 km before Lakshman Jhula from Brahmapuri

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