Does anyone know if you have to buy/take beach towels for by the pool at Santana beach resort? Or do they supply you with towels??
Hi, they supply the large striped towels for guests. We are going today also, so see you there. There will be six of us old codgers.How are you travelling to the hotel from the airport? I saw on a recent post that they are starting to charge for the use of beds at their shack, the Calamari. I hope this doesn%26#39;t apply to guests.
Hello there.
Me and my father are planning a tour around North India between Saturday 25th July and 7th August. These are the only dates we can travel between and we are aware of and prepared for the monsoon season.
Basically i%26#39;m looking for suggestions of how to fill our time there? We would be staying in at least 4 star accomodation and would like to spend at least 2 nights in Delhi, 2 nights in Varanasi and pay a visit to the Taj Mahal. Beyond that we are open to suggestions! We%26#39;d like a bit of a mix of what we see if possible i.e. not always temples but don%26#39;t mind that if there are no alternatives. Obviously budget it a consideration but first we%26#39;d like to know what people suggest.
Could anybody suggest a possible route and suggestions for what we can fill these 13 days with?
Thankyou!
You may think of:
1. Varanasi - Temples, Ghats, Sadhus
2. Agra - Taj
3. Jaipur - Rajputana City, Palaces %26amp; Forts
4. Jodhpur - Very Nice fort, A hotel in a palace, where erstwhile King also has residence.
5. Jaisalmer - Desert Safari, Sand Dunes
6. Delhi - Capital city and a must
These all are cultural places and can be very well covered in 13 days. No crisscrossing is involved and they can be done in a series.
Thankyou for your reply. These ideas sound very interesting.
Is this set of places covered by flights,trains etc i.e. can it be completed in a circuit in 13 days?
Yes ! I%26#39;ve suggested you a doable circuit only as there are many other interesting places.
These places are well connected by trains/air. No problem in that.
When are you reaching Varanasi ? and exactly when do you want to leave...If you can tell me may be I can help you in planning an itinerary.
Just wondering which is the Beach Road in Candolim- is it the main road or a side road, only there seems to be a lot going on there!
Thanks to everyone for recommendations for eating places. Have written them all down and will be trying them in two weeks. Can%26#39;t wait
Oxford anne
It%26#39;s a side road that leads from the main Candolim High Street down to the beach and has lots of shops and restaurants.
As Gemma says, it%26#39;s a side road. It has a Chinese restaurant, Taste of China, on the corner.
Beach Road is opposite Newtons you cannot miss it; we were recommended to use the second shack on the left as you walk onto the beach ';Vincents';( no charge for sun beds if you have food or drinks) or I hear Bono%26#39;s further down on the right.
Peruna
Staying in Arpora was wondering if i could watch it in any bars around the area or in baga, its 4TH April at about 4pm GMT.. What time would that be in goa...
The clocks go forward at the end of March so it would be 8.30pm Indian time. Lots of places to watch football but I%26#39;m not sure about horse racing.
Robocop...there is a telly by the Barracuda Bar that was showing quite a few english football matches last year. IMHO I would guess that they will show the National if they can. You wont be the only person wanting it on!
There is also a telly in your room but I have no idea what channels are on it, as I never switched it on last year.
Any guaranteed tips then?...hehe!!
Sorry should have said..the Barracuda Bar is the late night bar at the MD.
Hi, There is a big screen in the %26#39;Dinosaur%26#39; bar on the other side of the lakes. You might be able to watch it over there. They were showing football over there.
not much of a tipster... infact dont think i have ever won anything on the National ha ha , I had tickets to go but then booked the holiday... Didnt take buch to sway me.. 1 Day in damp cold Aintree watching the race or 14 nights other side of the world with a tan and a beer... what would you do ha ha
not much of a tipster... infact dont think i have ever won anything on the National ha ha , I had tickets to go but then booked the holiday... Didnt take buch to sway me.. 1 Day in damp cold Aintree watching the race or 14 nights other side of the world with a tan and a beer... what would you do ha ha
Ooh, let me think about that for a millisecond!! Hope you have a great time even if you don%26#39;t win on the geegee%26#39;s.
OK,
i am trying to choose where to go in April (1st visit). my choices are:
Baga Beach, Arpora, Calangute, Condolim, Mabor beach, Anjuna.
would prefer the areas not quite as touristy if poss.
thanks
If you want it as touristy as poss then Calangute is the one....
We go there, and there are lots of quiet places dotted around the area...
Soz misread your post....doh....its is early....lol
Don%26#39;t do Calangute then....lol
Hi Janmal, You want Mober beach in the south. Cavalossim village lots nice shops and shack with good food and not too busy.
dave
Baga and Calangute are both - to my mind - horrendously touristy, but it%26#39;s as well we%26#39;re not all the same! Candolim likewise is quieter, but still too busy for me. I%26#39;d also go for Mobor in the south. Anjuna%26#39;s full of space cadets.
Would recommend the Marinha Dourada in Arpora. Quiet hotel, lots of lovely scenery from your balcony and only a short taxi ride to Baga. www.madogoa.com
Portland holidays have been an absolute disgrace, there customer service is diabolical, after being given totally miss leading info by E-mail (Attached below) from Portland / Thomson I called there customer help line and was told buy some guy called Tom the systems are down call back in an hour.. so I called only to be informed no system problems and nobody called Tom worked there, so I went on to advise that I had now sent 4 applications back to the visa company, 1st wrong address 2nd postal order made to wrong company 3rd wrong postal order amount 4th is till waiting for a response. Waited for a call back for 4 days Anyway to cut a long story short I asked if Thomson / Portland are willing to allow me to change the date of the holiday with not charge if the visa does not arrive in time as it was there error in sending this information. Answer was NO… what about some compensation toward the ££££ I have been changed in postal orders and recorded delivery answer was NO
I am so angry about the attitude of such a large organisation; I understand that the responsibility of a visa lies with the customer that’s not the point, it’s the fact of the miss information I was provided could result in me missing out on my holiday
I have attached my email for your perusal
Thanks for your email,
You do have to get the visa yourself and below id exactly how to go about it:
• You must have a valid passport and ensure that it is valid for at least 6 months from your intended return date.
• A visa is required to visit Goa and the rest of India. You can download an Indian visa application form from the link below.
• Fees are payable to obtain an Indian visa and these are shown on the application form.
• Please allow sufficient time to obtain your visa. Postal applications take at least 2 weeks to process. You can apply in person to the Indian Consulates in either London or Birmingham or Edinburgh and in most cases you can obtain a visa the same day.
• There are companies who can obtain a visa quickly for you. They will charge a fee for their services which is normally about £30 per person. This fee is on top of the charge made by the Indian Embassy.
We recommend Omnia Visa services in London. You can call them on 0207 837 5803
See their website at www.omniavisas.com/ and they can generally have a visa for you within a week.
• Two references are required for your visa application form and they must be contactable addresses in the UK.
• For two contactable addresses in India please state your hotel name for the first reference and either the ';British Embassy, Mumbai'; or the name of your tour operator if known for your second reference.
• Please note that no address or telephone number is needed for the Indian references.
Indian Visas can be obtained from the following offices:
High Commission of India
India House, Aldwych, London WC2B 4NA
Queue numbers are issued between 8.30 a.m. and 12.00 noon Mondays to Fridays, except holidays
Consulate General of India, Birmingham
20 Augusta Street, Jewellery Quarter, Hockley, Birmingham, B18 6JL. Tel: 0121 212 2782
Consulate General of India, Edinburgh
17 Rutland Square, Edinburgh, EH1 2BB. Tel: 0131 229 2144
WRONG WRONG WRONG….. Don’t listen to a word….
Don%26#39;t know when your going I did my online with great help from MEERKAT on here she won mastermind on her subject %26#39;completing visa%26#39;s for Goa%26#39;
We had our visas back the other day took 6 working days.
OMG how bad is that, I would you suggest you write a letter to Portland and then if you get no joy write to Abta or one of the holiday governing bodies. keep copies of all correspondence. Good Luck.
Definitely some incorrect information from Portland, you can only obtain a visa direct from VFS via the website, you can%26#39;t go to the Consulate General direct - that stopped last year. You must have some come-back if they%26#39;re giving our completely WRONG information - hope you get the Visas in time Rob.
Didnt think about Abta or one of the holiday governing bodies, ill get onto that tonight, thanks
Absolutely disgraceful service (if you can call it that) from Portland. Agreed, it is up to the customer to get their own visa but the information they provided with the links and everything is all completely and totally out of date and wrong. Really hope it is fourth time lucky for you Rob. Like said above, keep copies of all the correspondence you have with them and good luck with everything.
When were you given this info because if you booked some time ago at the time of booking that would have been correct
I agree that you should contact ABTA - you%26#39;ve nothing to lose. I know it%26#39;s difficult to keep up to date as the visa information has changed but Thomsons are a major tour operator and should be giving out the correct information.
was sent email 3 days after i made my booking email came From: New Media Contact (newmediacontact@tui-uk.co.uk)
and was sent to me Sent 27 January 2009 at 11:21:11
Hi Robcop,
Sorry to hear that you have a terrible time with the visa application, i had the same problem myself in Dec.
In the end i had enough with the online thingy, and we found a company that sorts the application for you. (see link)
http://www.astrotravel.co.uk/
I have been going to Goa for 5 years and only know the ';old way'; for the visa applications, and this company does just that!
The company is based in Bolton, you take your application to them or by post, the turn around is about 10 days.
Good Luck!
Moggybrown
This is very bad advice and there is no excuse for them not having up to date info after all this time but I dont think you will have any comeback on them because always it says in the small print somewhere that visas are the sole responsibility of the holidaymaker. I still agree some strong complaints are in order though.
This may sound like a silly question, but I am in the Kochi/Ernakulam area and am looking for a restaurant that serves really good %26#39;kuppa biriyani%26#39; (kuppa mixed with erachi). I%26#39;m not interested in any ';thattu kadas'; (unless there%26#39;s one that%26#39;s fabulous). Can you point me in the right direction?
I am interested in the replies to this :) Made me curious.
But seriously, elj won%26#39;t just kappa and irachi curry served separately do?
if kappa served with erachi, seperately will do .. ?then Gramam restaurant near Mymoon theatre at chittoor road will be a one spot to be looked into
there is a reastaurant next to that called Fries , which also serves kerala dishes
best regards
Deepak Dayanandan
';Kappa'; cooked with beef is definitely different and better when eaten separately with erachi curry, so I think elj is asking for the genuine thing. I would have thought this is easily available! Why not ask the folks where you are staying. You need to check also at places like Grand Hotel on MG Road-if they dont serve it they may be able to guide you-they serve a good variety of ethnic food-their rice and fish curry is definitely among the better ones.
Thanks for all the replies. I have to say that personally, I think it tastes better mixed, rather than separate. :) I had a ';kothi'; when we went to Pala the other day, but we didn%26#39;t know where to stop, so that%26#39;s why I asked.
Anyway, we ended up making it here at home on our own after buying fresh kuppa from Pala, but thanks for the references. I know, it%26#39;s silly, but when you get a kothi, what else are you supposed to do but ask if you don%26#39;t know where to go? :)
did i see mentioned somewhere on here that its possible to walk along the coast from baga end to anjuna? am i imagining things or did someone say its a nice walk through coast and countryside? cheers
Hi Whilst everybody else is busy packing and saying goodbye or whatever I will tell you how to get to Anjuna.
Yes you can walk from Baga to Anjuna along the headland. Depending on what time of day you want to go you can wade over the Baga river when the tide is low or otherwise you have to walk down the new road and turn left when you have crossed the bridge and walk through the little village. This will bring you out on the other side the river at the end of Baga beach where you will see a shack and then a Hindu monument. After this there are a couple of steps and a path which, if you follow them, will take you all the way to Anjuna. The path is a little narrow in places and you have to be a sure footed to walk over some of the rocky bits but it is a nice peaceful walk.
On the way there is Cliff Shack where you can stop for a drink or even end your walk there!!
Always take a bottle of water and a hat with you and do make sure you are back before it starts to get dark as it can be pitch black over there.
cheers mate - thanks for the info!
Never did this last year but I am going to make sure I do this year.
Thanks for the info
We made it as far as Cliff Shack and decided to stop there as it was sooooo hot. We had a lovely day tho. It%26#39;s very peaceful We found the walk to be quite difficult in places, but well worth the effort. Next time we are going to try to make it all the way to Anjuna, but the shack was just too inviting.
Hi all
I new about walking over the cliff way we got to the point were you went round the corner and you see the shore line of Anjuna and my oh would not go another step so we had to turn back, but how for would you say it is in miles to walk through the little village way, may have ago at that one.
David
Just measured the distance between Baga Bridge and the southern tip of Anjuna beach in Google Earth and its 1 mile. It must seem much further!
Thanks iaintwoeyes
much apreciated going 4april i will have a go at that
We go on the 2nd so might see you in the shack half way round for a cool beeeeer!
It is def. more than a mile round that headland with all the twists and turns. The new road from Baga, over the bridge and through the village is much longer than you think.
We used Cliff shack quite alot last season to get away from the hassles on the beach. Cliff is the owner of the shack and he does not allow the sellers etc to stop on his bit of beach.
Guests from Marina Dourada seem to use the shack alot.
If you do have a bike you can park it next to the Hindu monument all day, it is quite safe there.
di d the whole walk seems further than 1 mile but worth it was ace and shack 1/2 way was great make sure you take sun protection ,hat and water.
HI ,
I am female aged 27 and was looking to fly into Delhi from Mumbai to catch a train straight to Agra!
I will be alone and was wondering if this is safe to do this , is there many Westerners as i really want to visit Taj Mahal ..
Is this far from Agra train Station
Emma
Yes it%26#39;s 100% safe, if you travel on a pre reserved ticket (official site www.irctc.co.in).
You may go by Bhopal Shatabdi Express, it%26#39;s an aircon train and starts at 6 AM from Delhi. It takes two hours to Agra. Or you make take Taj Express which starts at 7 AM and takes some 3 hours.
Returning trains are 6:55 PM (Taj Express) and 8:30 PM (Shatabdi Exp.). It will be a long day as you%26#39;ll return around 10:30 PM.
Taj Mahal is 6 Kms. from the Agra Cantt. Railway Station. A taxi should take Rs. 125 and an Auto (Tuk Tuk) should charge around Rs. 50 for taking you there.
Hi Emma,
You can say that going by train in India is always a little bit exciting....;))
If you buy a first class AC - ticket, you will not have any problems at all!
But if you buy a coach ticket - you will have a fight going on and off the train, and to find any room to sit! Do not even try that level of travelling, as a lonely woman!
I have been many times in India, and have never been met with any major problems, but often I have had help from many people. On the other side, I am over 1,90m and 130kg, so I will stick out a little bit.....
Good luck to you!
Dear Emma -
In general you should avoid train timings that have you alone in Delhi after 10 p.m. I don%26#39;t like the idea of being a solo woman travelling alone at night in Delhi city (or in Agra city).
If you are flying in from Mumbai, you will most likely need to split your journey into two days. Assuming you get into Delhi airport by 10:00 a.m., the earliest train you should think of taking is 11:30 a.m. and then you will be able to see the Taj at dusk. Make sure you get into the complex before 5 p.m. since that%26#39;s when the ticket counters close.
There is a return train from Agra to Delhi that departs 8:30 p.m., but I am suggesting you avoid it. Instead, spend the night in Agra and leave the next morning for Delhi after seeing Agra Fort.
- Deepa
Or do it the other way - see Agra Fort the previous day, and see the Taj Mahal at dawn.
I looked up the mid-morning trains:
2626 KERALA EXPRESS departs New Delhi 11:30 and arrives at Agra Cantonment 14:30 .
1078 JHELUM EXPRESS departs New Delhi 10:20 and arrives Agra Cantonment 13:50
8478 KALINGA UTKAL EXP departs H NIZAMUDDIN 12:30 and arrives Agra Cantonment 16:00
Dear Steve -
I believe trains are the safest mode of transport for solo women.
However, I don%26#39;t have the blithe confidence in my countrymen that you have, when it comes to women%26#39;s safety in Delhi after dark.
The plain truth is that Delhi doesn%26#39;t exactly have a stellar record when it comes to crimes against women.
As a traveller to Delhi, I have never seen local women walk out on the streets at night without an escort. This is not just because Indian women are subject to archaic patriarchal attitudes, it is also because it is genuinely not safe.
Let%26#39;s face it - being a woman in India is not exactly easy. Statistics of rape and murder aside, I have lost count of the number of times I have been felt up and groped and ';accidentally'; brushed against. Delhi seems to specialise in roadside louts.
The only city in India where women travel solo at night currently is Mumbai. Of late, even this is becoming fraught with danger, and we have had several shocking incidents in the last 2 years.
Dear Emma -
I would avoid solo night travel if possible. I would not say the risks are significantly greater for foreigners - although different colouring and hair will attract more attention. Any woman on her own feels unsafe...and those of us who have on occassion walked alone at night have usually scurried quickly to the safety of our homes. I say this for certain - you will not find any lone women strolling along confidently!
I have a teenage daughter, and if she was travelling, I would not advise a train like the Shatabdi that has her on the Paharganj streets past 10:30 p.m.
It is a telling indicator of the sorry state of affairs, that one half of the population can%26#39;t trust the other half.
- Deepa
Emma,
Although you can choose for yourself. And if possible you should stay at Agra so that you may visit Fatehpur Sikri also and take some rest.
But New Delhi railway station where Agra-N. Delhi Shatabdi express comes, is situated bang in the middle of the city. It%26#39;s never empty rather it%26#39;s overflowing with people 24 hours.
And Paharganj, wher you have a range of budget hotels, is just opposite the exit gate of Railway Station.Connuaght Place(CP), the heart of the city is just 2 KMs from Rly Stn.
At 10:30 PM Paharganj is humming with activity, in fact there are many shops/restaurants that are open all night. CP at this time is full of families out for dinner at a restaurant or icecream.
Just follow normal precautions, no dark alleys in night (although all the alleys in Paharganj are residential areas) no eatables from strangers and walk confidently. All this is true for Indians as well as foreigners.
hope you enjoy your trip.
Well,its all safe here in India..but u need to keep ur eyes open and look confident, the best way to do it by Road,so u might have not to care about what to do next when u reach Agra, there is daily same day aircondition bus services from New Delhi to Agra,in which they will make u most of the monuments at agra including Taj Mahal and Red Fort,also u might can see birth place of lord Krishna at Mathura.thats also very cheap the to and fro price for bus would be app Rs 700/-
ATB
Paul
Hi Emma
As a solo female traveller ones needs to be totally ';switched on'; to travel in India. The trains are the best way to travel and you have some good advice from Steven Ber, a legend! Don%26#39;t worry! The TAJ is so fabulous you must not miss it!
The touts in Agra railway station are the worst in India %26amp; will try to take your luggage %26amp; grab you by the arm %26amp; hassle the hell out of you. Just smile %26amp; tell them to go away. Chale Jao in hindi! Yell it out loud %26amp; clear %26amp; walk confidently to the prepaid taxi or autorickshaw counters %26amp; ignore the buggers! Lose your Western manners and jossle along with the rest of us who love India.
Hi Everyone,
Arrive in Goa in the early hours next tuesday morning, and wondered if any one can advise where to obtain Rupees at the Airport ? or wait until we arrive at our Hotel in Betalbatim in South Goa.
Thanks in anticipation of valued information.
Regards Roger %26amp; Shirley
There is an ATM at the airport and you can exchange money there too, but you%26#39;ll get a lousy rate.
Which hotel are you staying at in Betalbatim? Most of the hotels there offer exchange, but at a not much better rate than you%26#39;ll get at the airport. The nearest ATM is in Colva.
Hi There,
Thanks for that, staying at the Alagoa ?
seems somewhere in a swamp near a lake YUK !! back and beyond somwhere else.
Have you any idea of distance / cost of getting to the nearest atm, this is all very very new teritory to me and ANY information would be very gratefully recieved.
Regards
Roger %26amp; Shirley
The Alagoa is a bit in the middle of nowhere, to be honest. It%26#39;s a pretty straightforward sort of place, but there%26#39;s not much around there.
Colva will really be your nearest ATM. Your nearest decent restaurant is 86HD in Betalbatim, about a 10-15 minute walk from your hotel - and if you want a taxi back, it%26#39;s probably best to book one.
Colva has a few OK bars and restaurants, but most of them in that area are a bit out of the way. Goodman%26#39;s is great for the odd bit of karaoke and that sort of thing. Tate%26#39;s is good for pre-dinner drinks and does quite good, fairly bland European food. The Sea Pearl in Colva does lovely fish and sea food. But honestly I%26#39;d probably head for Majorda and Palm Shades (great), Pentagon (food OK, service variable), or Crab Key, which used to be fabulous, but I thought this year was absolutely average. PM me if you want to know anything else.
My daughter stayed in Betalbatim at xmas and she would recommend 86HD, she went into Colva to change money and payed 200rps return, probably told taxi to come back for them. If you check on here she did a long report for someone eles a little while ago. Hope this helps Gel
Hi
I know this topic has been discussed quite a bit but I just wanted to confirm that I can change UK sterling pounds into Indian currency at Delhi Airport? Or does it have to be travellers cheques?
Cheers
Briony
Hi,
You can change Sterling in both TC and Currency notes at Delhi airport. Be also aware that you will probably get a better rate among money changers in the city proper, so maybe you should change not much more than what you require for immediate expenses.
Hi again,
We wil be staying in Candolim between December 21st and Jan 5th and would love to fit in a trip to the Taj Mahal at some point during our stay. As it will be the festive season and undoubtably busy, i was wondering if anyone could offer any advice on the better option.... booking the trip as soon as possible or simply leaving it to book when we arrive?
Thanks again everyone,
Sarah x
This is peak season for airflights in India so you may find it pretty expensive to do it at this time of year.
We looked to do it in December last year but these prices put us off.
Get in touch with www.daytrippergoa.com and ask Eddie, the owner, as he is the best person to ask.
It depends on how your international flights are booked - ideally you should fly internationally into Delhi or out of Delhi, and visit the Taj Mahal either at the beginning or at the end. That saves you the cost of additional domestic flights.
If you are booked into Goa through some route other than Delhi, then I recommend you fly on Jan 2 to Delhi. That way you will be spared all the incredibly high prices (and additional forced dinner supplements).
I suspect the cheapest tour operators for the Taj Mahal are Delhi based, although I am not sure. There are several posts in the Delhi forums recommending car rental companies. You can also book train tickets to Agra in advance. If you are on a very tight budget there is a company called Panicker Travels which does day trips to Agra by bus from Delhi, the cost is something like Rs 800 for the day. You could look up their website, they have online booking.
Take some warm clothing if you do get to the Taj. The temp was 4 deg c at 8 am when we were there on Jan 4 some years ago. Gets up to about 21 deg later in day.
Hi All,
Has anyone stayed at the Campal Beach Resort in Miramar, Goa recently? Any comments on cleanliness etc would be most appreciated.
Cheers
Mita
Yes I did stay in Campal Beach Resort in 2008 December. The place is really clean and the service is very good. I recommend this hotel.
Regards,
Jettan
Hi Jettan
Thanks for your review on Campal Beach Resort....much appreciated.
Cheers
Mita
Hi,
We have today booked flights going out on December 21st and returning on Jan 5th. We will be staying in Candolim as we went there in November last year and loved it!
I was just wondering what peoples experiences are of being there for Christmas and New Year and what sort of things go on?
Im so excited!!! :-) Only 9n months to go! Ha ha!
Sarah x
Hi Sarah
Not sure about Christmas (though I%26#39;ll find out for myself also this year!) but we were in Candolim for NYE two years ago and it was fantastic. We spent the night on the beach where all of the shacks had music, food, fireworks etc... and it was amazing!
There was an increase in domestic tourists for NYE so it was BUSY but there was just a lovely atmosphere.
This season we had 3 weeks in Candolim but came home a few days before Christmas. We were gutted to leave knowing that we%26#39;d miss the party so this time we%26#39;ve ended up booking for Christmas and New Year and can%26#39;t wait!
Christmas and new year are great in Goa nothing beats christmas day on the beach. It is busy with domestic tourists, but xmas just gone was very quiet compared to other years, probably to do with the terrorists attacts in Mumbai and Goa was also on high alert. But it was still great. who have you booked your flights with and how much have you got them for (if you dont mind me asking)
My flights are with Kingfisher and cost £435 return through Southall Travel. I booked just over a month ago. We fly out on 10th Dec to get there for the 11th then return on the 3rd Jan.
I wish to go on trip to renowned 8 temples of Lord Ganesha in Maharashtra, so, Please tell me the appropriate time to visit these places and also advice all required information to the below mentioned address:
Mr. Dhananjay Kumar
Qrt.No.P/8/3
M.E.S. Colony
Harjinder Nager
Lal Bunglow,
Kanpur.
Pin 208007.
U.P.
E-mail address : dhanan.kumar@sbi.co.in
Thanks.
Dear Mr. Dhananjay -
The temples of Ashtavinayak are centred near and around Pune. If you make a base in Pune, you can cover these temples in 2 days.
You can also start from from Mumbai will be convenient for you to reach from Kanpur. Usually it is like this:
Day 1: Mumbai - Mahad - Pali - Ranjangaon. Overnight Pune.
Day 2: Theur - Siddhatek - Morgaon - Jejuri -Balaji. Overnight Pune
Day 3: Vaishnodevi - Ozar - Lenyadri - Mumbai
Here is a map:
…webshots.com/54/…520978740ZDBqJU_fs.jpg
If you google ';Ashtavinayak tours'; you will find several companies which organise these tours.
- Deepa
Are there Jain Temples at shmils, manali, kullu, dharamshala? If yes can i get its address and email i.d.
can i get its address and email id %26amp;telephone no
can i get the address email id%26amp;telephone no. as we are intrested in coming there for 8 to 9 days stay in the month of april after 17
Can someone please suggest what time we should leave from Jodhpur, plus the travelling times between the two sightseeing stops. I%26#39;d like to arrive in Udaipur before dinnertime if possible (i.e. don%26#39;t want to be on the road in the dark). Thanks.
from Jodhpur To Ranakpur drive takes 3hr., so good to start 8:30am from Jodhpur, temple at ranakpur open for foriegn visitors from 12noon onward, from Ranakpur to Kumbhalgarh it can take 1hr and half, becoz of small and hilly road. from Kumbhalgarh to Udaipur will take around 2hr and half.
cheers
guidedesert.
Also think of staying the night in Kumbhalgarh and cut a night in Udaipur. See www.hrhhotels.com for the Aodhi
Dear msmango u cen start from jodhpur near abaut 9.00am or 9.30 am the ranak pur temple will open for tourist at 12.00in after noon jast look temple then go for kumbhal gar fort after fort u cen reech at udaipur near abaut mex 6.00 evening then cheak in hotel take shaver then near abaut at 7.00 or 7.30 evening u cen go for dinner
thanks
As npjai has suggested, check out www.hrhhotels.com also for hotels in Udaipur and take advantage of their visit India 2009 offer - book one night at one of their hotels and get the second night free.
Hello Everyone,
I went on this trip during September 2008. Trip was awesome. This was the best time to visit LEH. I have uploaded my pictures at http://www.hillsindia.com/manali-leh-trip
I will also upload my videos of Leh trip soon. So far I have uploaded one video named Biking in Leh City at hillsindia.com/manali-leh-trip/videos-of-leh鈥?/a>
reply to this thread if anyone wanna know more about the trip.
Regards,
Jitendra
i am planning to go to leh by road to leh from manali then from there to srinagar via kargil. if you could give a bit of idea about the place and the tour though which you have been
At what time are you planning to go there? For this season roads are already closed.
Hi, nice to know that you are willing to make a biking trip to leh. ell at this point of time road are already closed now you can plan your trip for next year in somawhat Jume-Sep. I am also planing the same trip in 2009 June if you would like to join me then you are most welcome. You can get me on ashu_rohilla@yahoo.com or contact me on 9811411431.
Take care.....
Hi! i was acutally planning to go to leh this june.. i was wondering if you could give me some more information on your trip. What you did, how you got around, how many days would you recommend to stay there.
From the little that ive read, you can take a flight from delhi to leh, and there are plently of hotels. i was wondering if its cheap there, and if you can just find a hotel when you get there or mabye its better to book in advance..
any insight will help!
thank you very much!
Filipa.
Hi Jitendrakumr, I flew to Delhi Sep 08 Stayed there for 3 days , Then Flew up to Leh, Stayed in Ladakh for 2 weeks, It was the most Amazing Trip of my life, Hope to go back Again soon, but sorting my Trip out to Goa first, hoping to go Early March. Jane.
Hi All,
I am also planning a trip to Leh in May with my family. I have booked my air tickets. Please help me to finalise the Hotel. I know there are so many hotels but they all have mixed reviews so m a little confused, Please advise on hotel shambhala in Leh if someone has stayed there or any other with clean and comfortable atmosphere. Also please advise on the must do trip around Leh.
Regards
Hemant
I am from Mumbai. Planning to travel To Leh in May Via Delhi. I was thinking of hiring a self drive can in delhi for trip to Leh. Is it advisable if i rent a swift or zen ... or its imp for me to rent sumo or 4wd ?
Hi Jitendra
How much did your taxi to Leh cost?
Cheers
Gavin
Hi Jitendra
How much did your taxi to Leh cost?
Cheers
Gavin
Its very quiet on here has everyone gone.
One more sleep for me yipeeeeeeeee
Not everyone just 1 more sleep for us to flying from manchester tomorrow cant wait Arrrrrrrrrrrrrr so excited
I%26#39;m still around for another 11 days...then...woo hoo!!
mojo i thought it very quiet as well.bet gatwick airports not quiet!! Barbs
I bet Gatwick doesnt know whats happening lol
We also fly from Manchester tomorrow
Last nights market was very very busy and they are hoping to keep it going until the end of April.
HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just what I wanted to hear!
Good - thought that would make you all happy.
My friend said she did not have time to go for anything to eat and had to have it at her stall. She is always busy but said it was manic last night - also lots of domestic tourists who were spending well.
Hi, What night market is this. I stayed in the North last year and there are a couple up there. Is this one close to Calvelossim. Not going until next Feb though.
Elly
Sat night in Arpora.....North Goa
I was at the Arpora Sat Night Market last night and I agree, it was VERY busy - packed!!
I was jamming for a bit in the bar just outside the main entrance - singing Blues and Rock with some musician friends of mine who play there every Saturday night, whether the market is on or not.
A bit of a mixed bag on the main Market Stage, and then the Police stopped the Live Music at around 10.30pm, much to the annoyance of my Sound Engineer friends who were doing the P.A.. They managed to get the Fire Eaters on after that though, with taped music!! Does it make any sense at all??????
Sounds like the market is really worth a visit. Am looking forward to a really good mooch.
Charity - I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;ll have a guide to show you around....;-)
Talking to my taxi driver neighbour this morning and he said it took him more than an hour to get to the market on Saturday night due to the amount of traffic. The worst bit was the narrow bridge at Arpora (always is) where it is 1 way traffic. The second time he went a different route but the line of traffic would not let him join so he sat at the cross roads for the same amount of time he sat waiting to cross the bridge.
If it is taking this long PLEASE take a bottle of water (or something) with you - you will be glad of it as it can get hot in a standing taxi.
Jeera, thanks for the tip about the water.
Badgerlad, hope the guide won%26#39;t charge too much for the service and won%26#39;t let poor little me get coned (I can be very gullable at times).
I may get you coned but i won%26#39;t let you get conned....PMSl
Right, well today is THE day I%26#39;ve been waiting to arrive for 7 months now! Just wanna say to all, thanks so much for the chats, the laughs, PMSL many, many times, the banter and all the great fun we%26#39;ve had, especially recently with the build-up to our holidays! You are all great and luv ya to bits!
And to Badger, Charity, Suze and partners - see ya all Friday!!!
To everyone going out this weekend, on Monday, over the next few days and to those of you going out when we are still away - HAVE A SAFE TRIP AND AN ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC HOLIDAY!!!
Enjoy all that Goa has to offer!!! :) :) :)
x-x-x-x
Have a fantastic time! :-))
We will miss you lot on here, it%26#39;s going to be very quiet!
Take care and have a safe journey :-))
Linda
Hope you all have a brilliant time. As Linda says it will be very quiet on the forum over the next couple of weeks, unless you can drag yourself away from the beach for an hour to log on and give us a quick update.
I%26#39;ll have more time to do housework etc, instead of logging on here all the time trying to keep up to date with all the posts lol.
Aand we all luv you too......yuck.....gonna be sick..
Have a good one....;-)
x-x-x-x-x-x
Have a fantastic time :-))
Meerkat and all who going today tomorrow or monday have a fab fab time.Enjoy Badgerlads big birthday and have a drink for me for him on the big day.I bet ther will be some sore heads in Goa next weekend.Good job parecetamol are cheap.LOL Once again have a fab time have a wonderful time and look forward to all your reports when you get back.Barbs ans hubby xx
We are all packed and ready to load the car.
Last thing to do is drive over the pennines and away we go.
See you in Candolim tomorrow.
Radioed
Have a great time everyone!
Helen xxx
Thankyou am going to the airport in an hour Woo-Hoo as meerkat says!!!!!!!:)
We will be joining in with the Goa experience, leaving tomorrow. Won%26#39;t be able to sleep tonight with excitement, but going to set two alarm clocks (just in case I do nod off)as I do not want to miss that plane!!!!
See you all there
hhi meerkat and friends hope u all have a brilliant time wishing u a safe journey and every thing u want from your trip regards carolxx
has anyone travelled on flight between london heathrow and amritsar
not yet will be in march scary as i keep hearing --air india say they have 7 flights and then cancel some any one else heard this
rani
sorry cant help you guys there have flown air india once and well that was it..heck it wasnt even on this sector but it was bad...
Hi,
I flew with Air India in December and the plane is quite comfortable and the service is good,Toilets are okay at the beginning of the journey, but please do not attempt to go towards the end of your journey,
Their timing is very bad, their flights seem to be the only ones that are delayed!
I%26#39;m sorry to alarm you but this flight is awful.My mum had a horrific experience in Oct 2008 where the flight to India from London was cancelled (and we had to be booked onto a Jet Airways straight to Amritsar which was a good flight but we had to be at the airport 6 hours before the flight which was an ordeal in itself!)
Then on the way back, the flight from Amritsar to Delhi was delayed, then it got to Delhi and waited a further 3 hours (delaying passengers joining at Delhi as well) and then finally got going - but food and service was awful and the flight arrived in London late, meaning passengers with connecting flights missed their connections.
I am sorry to post such a negative review but I implore you to change your airline if you can, it is much better to travel in relative comfort and with peace of mind rather than taking a chance with a dreadful airline.
please tell me where is post code in delhi its 110006 the exact location i m arriving to delhi by tuesday
Isn%26#39;t that the postcode for Old Delhi / Chandni Chowk? Did you not watch the new Abhishek Bachhan film, Delhi - 6 ?
Is there a particular address you are looking for?
- Deepa
Ankit,
It covers following areas:
Baratooti, Bhagirath Place, Chandni Chowk, Chawri Bazar, Dariba, Delhi Cloth Mill, Delhi GPO / HPO, Farash Khana, Fatehpuri, ISBT, Idgah Rd., Kashmere Gate, Naya Bazar, Red Fort, Sadar Bazar and Azad Market
Bye everyone see you in 2 weeks time. wont have time to check in tomorrow so this is my last post. everyone whos going shortly enjoy and those who arent what a shame. lol
Bye bye mojo have a brill time.Barbs
Have a great time Mojo! am mega jealous!
have a nice time mojo got any spare room in your suitcase
Bye Mojo have a great time and hope your flight is like those today without delay.
Have a great time mojo, look forward to a great trip report.
BOB.
Woo-hoo!!!
Leaving very, very shortly! Wey-hey Goa, here we come!!!
Checked the documents about a hundred times already and I know I will again several times more, in the car, at the airport bla, bla, bla! Same every year, I%26#39;m stunned I haven%26#39;t lost them yet!
Have a lovely fortnight in Blighty all of you staying behind and all of you going, have a great time!!!
Many, many thanks for all the good wishes and PM%26#39;s :)
See ya!!!
x-x-x-x
Has Meerkat left the Forum ???
I said it was the last post! Doh, this definitely is now lol!
In the word of Arnie - ';I%26#39;ll be back';!!!
See ya!!! x
Have a great time, or else!!!!
BOB
has anyone travelled down to kerala from goa possibly on the train
if so which train stations etc and a rough cost, timescale would be helpful
we are going to goa for 3 weeks so fancy a trip to see kerala agin if possible
thanks
Try here, http://www.cleartrip.com/trains. Put in the station details (Madgoan for Margao or Kochi for Cochin) 1st class is about £28.
you,ll need to get train from marago takes around 11rs to cochin or 14hrs to trivam sorry for spelling lol
I travelled by train from Goa (Tivim station) to Kerala (Ernakulam Jnct) which took about 16 hours overnight. I got a local mate to get the ticket and that was 345/- sleeper class...
do try the thread on the post below - it has some suggestions. you will find that deepak has gone out of his way to provide many details.
tripadvisor.in/ShowTopic-g297631-i5501-k2636…
Hi All
Can someone tell me what kind of night life in Mumbai? is there is an area in mumbai or some streets known for night clubs and entetermant.
Maney Thanks
There are several clubs; usually either in South Mumbai (where most of the sightseeing is clustered), or in central Mumbai (where around the reclaimed mill area of Lower Parel, several upscale clubs have come up), or in the Western Suburbs (Bandra, Juhu, Andheri). Where are you going to be staying?
My current favourite is a place called Blue Frog:
…blogspot.com/2008/05/finally-music-performa…
Other places I like are listed here:
…blogspot.com/2008/09/evening-on-marine-driv…
And here:
…blogspot.com/2008/09/evening-on-marine-driv…
- Deepa
Clubbing scene is hot in Bandra.....
You won%26#39;t believe you are in India.
Hi
I am getting married in Feb 2010 in India(jallundar), both me and my partner are from england.
Have not go a clue where to begin with shopping and more importanly hair make up and mehndi artists
has anyone got any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
thank you
If you fly into Delhi, you can stop for a few days there to shop for your entire trousseau, both bride and groom. Kinari Bazaar is a wedding market in Old Delhi, which sells all sorts of useful things for weddings. Clothes can be bought at a wide range of shops in Delhi, from budget to designer.
thanx for that
Plenty of ';beauty parlours'; around Jallandhar, so getting your hair eyc done shouldn%26#39;t be a problem.
The Model Town area is worth ckecking out for these sort of places. Best thing is to ask a local regarding wedding shopping, i.e. taxi driver or rickshaw driver.
Their answer may be a little vague, but they%26#39;ll get you to the right sort of area for whatever you%26#39;re looking for.
hi anyone any opinions on ';valentines retreat';, could you tell me where its situated etc.
hi sylv my friends sister came back 2 weeks ago and said she would%26#39;nt stop there again.Barbs
thanks Barbs, just can`t make up my mind where to go, we want a package possibly to Candolim, stayed at the Phoenix Park last year but the prices they are asking it isn`t worth it.
Hi sylve the friend i mentioned stayed at the prazeres(sister at valentines) she;d stayed there before.basic but clean.We staying at Lui Beach candolim for 3 weeks 拢1300ish for the 2 of us.booked with Thomas Cook.
sylv8
We%26#39;ve stayed at Valentine%26#39;s Retreat twice (Feb 2006 %26amp; Feb 2007).
We found it basic but clean.
You can find both my reviews here:
holiday-truth.com/holiday_truths/鈥?/a>
It%26#39;s about 150 yards up the Panjim Road, just after the Shantadurga Temple, on the left hand side there%26#39;s a lane that you go up.
If it helps, it%26#39;s nearer to the beach than Prazeres.
Really excited now, getting up early tomorrow for our first trip to Goa.
I have got 4.5 pages of invaluable information that I obtained from the Goa forum - what ever did we do before Tripadvisor. I feel I know Goa like the back of my hand and never set foot in the place!!!!!
Seems as though this weekend is busy with alot of fellow travellers heading of to Goa. Anyone I bump into, will have to ask who they are, might bump into Meerkat plus many others.
Will do trip report upon my return. See you all in two weeks.
Enjoy!
Drag yourdselves away from the beach for a day - Old Goa and Panjim are well worth it.
Hope you have a brilliant time and look forward to reading your report when you get back :-)
Definitely going to do Panjim and Old Goa. After reading all the forums, booked one night at Cola beach, also want to do river trip, waterfalls, spice plantation, elephant ride, markets etc. Think I should have booked 3 weeks although I usually get restless after two days sunbathing so hopefully I should be able to fit it all in!!
Have a lovely time.
Newball have a fantastic time.OLd Goa and Panjim well wortha visit.Deli Darba ofr lunch or evening meal in Panjim is a must do as well.Barbs
Definitely make a trip to the Delhi Darbar! The food is excellent %26amp; the waiters are the most attentive I%26#39;ve ever seen. We had a beautiful meal there on 11th March 2009 %26amp; whilst there our waiter took our photo (with their camera) so we now have a wonderful momento of me %26amp; my partner enjoying the most exquisite food in Panjim.
Thanks folks for the recommendations, I have just added them to my tips and advice list, it will be 5 pages by the end of the night!!!!
I%26#39;ve still got my folder I made from the first time we went to Goa. I start off with the hotel details at the front and add all the tips etc that I%26#39;ve picked up on here. It helped to keep me occupied on the plane re-reading through all the tips and great places to eat :-)
Have a great time Newball. hope you like it.
BOB
We have packed many times before, but right now we cant remember if aerosols go in suitcase or hand luggage
Hi hullwarrior if i remember right it,s suitcase they go in. Thats were i usually put them Barbs
Put them in your suitcase, you%26#39;re only allowed 100 mls in hand luggage (that includes make up, hand creams %26amp; aerosols)
Here is the latest on hand luggage security.
Travelling with liquids – 100ml rule
Only limited quantities of liquids may be carried through security control as hand baggage. This includes bottled drinks, suntan lotion, fragrances, cosmetics and toiletries.
The following restrictions apply to all liquids, creams, gels, pastes and aerosols taken through security control:
• Liquid items may only be carried in containers holding up to 100ml.
• They must be carried separately in a single transparent, resealable plastic bag.
• The bag must be no larger than 20cm x 20cm (8in x 8in) and all items must fit inside so that it closes properly.
• At security control the bag must be placed separately on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Liquid items larger than 100ml should be packed in your hold luggage – otherwise they will be confiscated.
Exceptions to the 100ml rule can be made for baby food or milk. However, you should only carry what you need for the flight, and you may be asked to taste these items at security control.
Exceptions may also be made for medicines. However, you may be asked to taste any liquid medicines, or to provide evidence (such as a doctor%26#39;s letter) that you need them for your journey.
thanks for that phil.really useful we can finish our packing now.
This link has all the info you require...
dft.gov.uk/transportforyou/…requirements
regards
T%26amp;J
Brief Report on November trip
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kashmir trip:19 November-2 December, 2008
I would like to thank all kind souls who posted on Kashmir before, your posts made my trip possible. Thank you.
We are a family of four, 2 adults and 2 kids (2 and 8 years) made a six day trip to Kashmir in mid November. We stayed 6 nights, visited Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonemarg, Gardens in Srinagar and Hajrat bal mosque. We finished our trip before the unfortunate terrorist bombing in Mumbai.
You all know what to visit in Kasmir etc, I will just give you some updates, hope you will find them useful.
We stayed in Chicago house boat as per recommendation from several online group. Our 6 night stay, breakfast and dinner and trip to above mentioned places, shikara rides etc all inclusive package cost us US$720.
We spoke to few Indian tourists; they paid about 10% less than us, which are expected.
Owner of Chicago house boat is a straight forward guy, he will clarify what is included and what is not, in the quoted price.
Few things to note for those who want to visit Kashmir:
1.Political/security situation: Pretty tense, even before the Mumbai carnage. As state election was going on in phases with call for boycott from some groups, there were 3 days of undeclared curfews.
On one Friday, the curfew was to prevent procession in the street after Friday prayer. It was undeclared; soldiers were trying to prevent us from going out of the city mentioning curfew. But our Kashmiri escort pleaded with soldiers in each check point for mercy (?) and seeing our passports and kids, they eventually let us go on our way. It is scary sight, all the gun totting soldiers! Anyone can shoot any time.
Another day, it was Election Day in a district 100km away from Srinagar, but curfew (again undeclared) made all the shops closed from Srinagar all the way to Gulmarg. On our last day, there was supposed to be curfew again as one of the political heavyweight was to visit the city. We managed to get to the airport showing air plane ticket and passport (what a relief).
2.Weather: It was pretty cold, average high was 10-12.C and low dropped to 0.C to -1.C. The problem was, the hitting heating houseboat provide is wood fire which dies down by 2am, for the rest of the night it was tough on our kids. House boat folks gave us (many) blankets and hot water bags. But not good enough for kids.
Power cut is a huge problem there; hot water comes only once a day.
3.People: Very warm, very nice people, except those who are involved in the travel industry. I presume they will not speak truth about 10% of the time. But then, I found it as a common thing in rest of the India as well. Guy who escorted us to all places, said “this is the first time in 18 years someone requested to go to the Kashmir government emporium for shopping”. I was bit a pissed of with that comment, but decided to keep quiet but firm with my request.
4.Shopping: As Lonely Planet suggested, you should go to the government emporium to get an idea about the market, then you can go shop in the regular shops.
There was pressure to buy expensive carpet from relative’s shop. Initially they will tell you, ”there is no pressure to buy, let’s go only to SEE”. But once you step in, pressure mounts. I saw a really nice carpet, hey asked Indian Rupee 120,000, the price then dropped to 90,000. By the time I walked out politely, the price dropped to 80,000, with offer of deferred payment and shipping by FedEx thrown in. I hate anyone pressuring me to buy anything. So I learnt my lesson and stated politely but firmly to all my drivers in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur that I will do shopping only when I want and whereever I wish to do it.
Everything closes down by sunset in Kashmir, so evenings are pretty boring.
5.Accommodation: It was comfortable enough. But at the end we thought staying 6 nights in a house boat was too much, so you can split the time between hotel and houseboat. The Dal lake is now somewhat polluted with polythin bags and other plastic materials.
6.Food: Excellent food, we had the best food in Shamiyana retaurent on the Boulevard. It was reasonably priced, the ‘Rogan Jush’ (mutton curry with tomato) was heavenly. Two dishes with rice, bread, bottled waer cost us only 400+rupee.
If you want to visit Kashmir, you have to be careful about the security situation, especially after the Mumbai bombing. It is sad that such a nice place is going through so much trouble for last 60 years and there is still no end in sight. Houseboat people will make sure that you are safe all the time including during the out of town trip.
I hope and pray that situation will get better; the nice people of Kashmir will have their biggest source of livelihood back soon.
Good review on kashmir. I am a kashmiri too. The place has a lot of natural beauty. Make sure to check the weathermans report before you come in. March to june would be the ideal months.
farook
Yes ! Kashmir is a beautiful place, the real heaven on earth...alas marred by politics.......
Although I visited it in 1998 at the height of militancy...
Right from Avantipura Airport, there was an army jawan at every 10 meters... I think there is more army in Kashmir than the whole population of Kashmir........
leavingtaht apart....It%26#39;s the most beautiful place in India.
Hello Again
That was at the peak of militancy. Now many of my freiends visite regularly. Apart from the borders and certain sensitive areas. The army has been moved out from everywhere.
farook
Has anybody been to this restaurant for steaks? what do you think and where exactly is it
Thanks
Foxes is just up a little lane on the way to Highland Beach Hotel. To the left of Fishermans Cove.
They do lovely steaks there, and in the peak season you normally have to book.
Thanks for that Kal, know where it is now, will give it a try, do they do anything else as well as steaks , curries etc?
Im sure they do, i remember my friend NOT recommending the spaghetti Bolagnaise, This year my favourite Steak was in Rising Waves nr Snow white laundry,%26amp; football pitch. Beautiful Fillet, with crispy fried onions,skewered mushroom %26amp; tomatoe, Bowl of proper salad, and bowl of chips.
Infact all of the food in Rising Waves is delicious and drinks are cheap too.
Bon Appettite..
Yum Yum sounds delicious, will have to try that also, heard so many reports about foxys but never tried it. We stay in calangute but love the restaurants in candolim
Thanks for that Kal
Hi Mojo I went to Foxys last year while staing in Candolim. The steaks are really excellent and very big!! loads of good chips too - the only thing I felt was that it was a bit like sitting on a building site! Even so very good value for money. It is situated just behind Fishermans cove restaurant.
Hi, got back from candolim 6/3/09.We went to Foxy%26#39;s on recomendation and enjoed the steaks,but the mossies must have enjoyed their meal (hubby was badly bitten).lol
Try The Mermaid -opposite Whispering Palms, we found the staff really helpful,friendly we asked if they could cook garlic %26amp; mushrooms for a starter(not on the menu)no probs.Steak to die for.
Also Tonys for the best fishchips%26amp;peas-better than home.
hope you enjoy your holiday as much as we did.
Foxy%26#39;s is a GREAT steak house, we have been going here from the time he opened about eight years ago.Each year he tries to add on a few improvments,(must admit this is slow)it used to be all out side, he has now added a roof . But it is the steaks that are so great, the service is wonderful, you are made to feel important.Another nice thing is he does not charge the earth for a bottle of wine, or drinks .A really good night out, and mossie coils were always burnt under our table.
Hi, spent 2 weeks in feb at candolim, ate at foxes a couple of times also the rest of our 18 group had meals there,,,steaks are great,,we booked the day before as it gets really busy,, service is a bit slow if eating around 8pm,,lots of people tend to book that time,,when we booked earlier or later the service was quick,, mind you its worth the wait,
Red
Dear Advisors,
I am getting varying reports on the road and it%26#39;s condition between Jaipur and Agra/Taj area at this time. Has anyone been this route in the last few weeks to know if it is a good road, or if it is under-construction, or if it is usually too crowded to drive? Does any one who has driven over this road in the last feew weeks know how long it will usually take to drive from Jaipur to Agra? How many lane road is most of the way?
';Travelers'; are abundant on this sight and I value your response. Thank you.
Youll need 5 to 6 hours. Roads been four-laned in most part
Between Jaipur and Agra people often choose to stop for sightseeing at Fatehpur Sikri, which is another city.
If you add Sikri to your itinerary, then you will need 7-8 hours.
- Deepa
Yes, I did this route last week. With 2 hours at Sikri, plus a 45 minute lunch, I was travelling from 9.15-5.15. Admittedly we hit peak hour traffic coming into Jaipur which added a little more time.
FW
hello,
i will be goign to munnar with my family in the month of April. i dont know if it s peak period. i would like to know a few hotles which is reasonable and at the same time a good family hotel. i dont want a very expensive hotel but a moderate one which is decent.
thank you
Dear DK897
check the list of Munnar hotels , here on TA . top left hand side
also you can look into
www.munnartouristhome.com ( RS 1100 to Rs 2000 )
www.munnarinn.in ( Rs 1500 - Rs 1900 )
www.dhanyasree.in ( RS 1200 - Rs 2000)
www.marthomaretreathome.com ( Rs 2000 approx )
www.elysiumgarden.com ( Rs 1200 - Rs 2500 )
www.emmeldwellings.com ( Rs 1500- Rs 2500)
www.poopada.com ( Rs 1100 鈥?Rs 2500 )
www.springdaleresort.com ( Rs 900 鈥?Rs 2500 )
www.spicegardenresorts.com ( Rs 1500 鈥?Rs 2500 )
www.snmunnar.com
best regards
Deepak Dayanan
My vote would be for Windermere
www.windermeremunnar.com
thank you for the list....will check the hotels out!!
I%26#39;m looking to go to Goa in July. It will be our first time!
I%26#39;ve been looking at the weather and it seems to be monsoon season, has anyone been in July? I%26#39;m a bit concerned that everything might be shut!
We%26#39;re also looking to stay in Arpora has anyone stayed here? is it nice? We like to eat and drink out so want to stay somewhere that has a good night life - but not too made.
Is it easy to get to the different resorts from Arpora?
Also one last question, how much would a taxi cost to Arpora from the Airport?
Anyway thanks in advance for your help!
Tristram,
You will get nothing but rain, rain and more rain in Goa in July, one of the main monsoon months. There will be days when it will be dry but the humidity will be high and you feel like you are in a sweat box.
Everything will be shut down, no night life and only the odd beach shack will be open.
In July there will be nothing open for the Western tourist - a few places for the domestic tourists will be open though.
The weather will be wet, very wet. The rain will come down in buckets and can be anything from a few minutes on and off through the day to all day long without a break. Sunlight will of course be limited and due to the rain the temperature will be anywhere between 24c and 27c.
Personally I loved the monsoon, the rain was amazing, the way it lashed down and when the thunder and lightning kicked in, it really was incredible. It was especially amazing considering I had been there from November the year before so I saw the transition from the long dry sunny season through to the wet and humid!
Really brilliant when the electricity goes off for hours on end so no fans, the washing will not dry and the insects come out in their thousands :-)
Been there and done that and will not do it again.
Really brilliant when the electricity goes off for hours on end so no fans, the washing will not dry and the insects come out in their thousands :-)
Been there and done that when the monsoon was really bad (or good which ever way you look at it) and will not do it again.
Oh No! I will have to re think my plans. I dont mind a bit of rain but i do want some sun aswell.
What about mid June? or is that the same?
Thanks for the advice!
Tristram,
Charter flights run from November to the end of April for a reason! The rains usually start in June and go on until September or October.
The monsoon usually starts about the 1st week in June but it is not set in stone, it can late it can be early, the rain can be heavy or light. The answer can be likened to how long is a piece of string.
You could be lucky and find there is more sunshine than rain, friends there last year said it was a nice monsoon meaning there was not too much rain.
Google goa monsoon and see what other people think.
Hi there,
I have approximately three weeks to spend in India and would like to spend two of those weeks in Mysore for a yoga course. At the same time, I%26#39;d like to visit some other sights around the area, both while staying in Mysore, and then for another week, while travelling around. Please keep in mind that I am young female traveller going alone...first major international trip.
Some questions:
1. I%26#39;d like to go to Bylakupee. Should I think about staying overnight here or doing this as a day trip from Mysore? What other %26#39;day trips%26#39; can I do if I were to have a yoga class in the morning and want to get to bed early at night?
2. During my %26#39;free week,%26#39; I was hoping to explore Kerala. Is this close enough to travel to from Mysore? What are the transportation options?
3. I%26#39;d also like to see the Tiger Reserve (Thekkady) and do a trip along the Kerala backwaters, as well as visit a hill station and a beach area... Is it possible to leave Mysore and do these things in a week? Or tell me which hill station/beach to go to? I%26#39;d love to do some hiking...I hike the Rockies here in Canada but as I%26#39;m backpacking I%26#39;m not sure if I will be bringing my hiking shoes as they will be a huge weight.
4. Right now I%26#39;m flying in and out of Bangalore but I%26#39;m wondering if there is a closer city to fly out of? I am flying in from Canada but will be flying to Bangkok so perhaps there is another airport which does regional flights?
5. If anyone could offer any other tips for my intinerary, that would be wonderful! Thank you!
its good but
Hi,
Bylakuppe:
You can easily see Bylakuppe in a day. I think staying the night is not necessary. It%26#39;s just about 2 hours away, driving from Mysore.
Free week in Kerala / hill stations:
Yes, Kerala is quite close to Mysore. Depending on which part of Kerala you want to go to, driving could be 1 option. Else, you could take a train from Bangalore to Kerala. As far as I know, there are no direct trains from Mysore to Kerala....please verify this.
You could post in the Kerala forum for opinions on which hill station / beach to go to in Kerala. But, if you are also looking at hill station options in Karnataka or Tamil Nadu: There%26#39;s Coorg, which is quite relaxing (Bylakuppe is part of Coorg). Then, there%26#39;s Red hills, which is a quieter place in Tamil Nadu, offering lots of hiking possibilities as well. Ooty is another popular hill station near Mysore, but it%26#39;s a tad too crowded for my liking.
Another hiking option close to Mysore that%26#39;s been recommended to me, but I%26#39;ve never tried, is the Moyar Gorge. It%26#39;s lush, quiet %26amp; off the tourist track. Supposed to be beautiful! You can google it up...
Flying into India:
Bangalore is the closest option from Canada / Bangkok. Mysore too has an airport, but, it%26#39;s not internationally connected. Instead, fly into Bangalore like you plan to %26amp; then drive down to Mysore.....it takes just 90 to 120 minutes.
Hope this helps.
Pixie,
I think I know the place that you are coming to for Yoga in Mysore. There are lots of visitors from all over the world coming to this particular Yoga teacher.
1. Bylakuppe is a day trip
2. Kerala is very close to Mysore. I would not recommend driving in India given that you are from Canada (we drive on the left side, British legacy). Given that you are travelling alone, my suggestion would be to go in a group. It is more convenient, that%26#39;s all. Kerala%26#39;s north-east (see a India map online, or even better buy an India book, the ones by Donna Kerling-DK are pretty accurate) is known as Wayanad. This is hilly area, and has one of the oldest found caves in southern India - it is said that pre-historic man lived there. Stay at Edakkal Hermitage (www.edakkal.com), and try to get the tree house - though they mostly put honeymooners into it!
3. Thekkady is much further south - at least a 8-12 hour drive from Mysore. Lovely place to go to. The entire eastern strip of Kerala is mountain teritory, but nothing tough - so drop the heavy shoes. All the beaches are on the west side. North Kerala has some beaches that are rarely visited.
4. Bangalore is the closest airport, and from there you have to take a taxi diret to Mysore, or a taxi/bus to the Railway Station and then a train to Mysore. The second option may be too much of a shock to your system, as it is your first visit. :)
5. Closer to Mysore in Karnataka state is the Kabini River Lodge run by Jungle Lodges - you could spend a day or two there too. Another suggestion already provided is to visit Coorg. There are home stays available, search for them on google with the right key words and you could stay at a coffee estate owners home, and get a personal tour too of the cofee estate and spice gardens. Karnataka also has lots of beaches, but one very popular among visitors from abroad - Gokarna - about 8-12 hours drive from Mysore. Alternately, take a night train to Mangalore, and a connecting train towards Goa.
Please do take care of yourself. I wish you a pleasant stay in Mysore, and in India. All the best.
Hi,
Going in 22 days not that i%26#39;m counting or anything was just wondering if there are any bars that show sky football wanted to watch a match over there. I%26#39;m staying at Santa Monica in calungute so are there any bars near by that will have sky??
Marie.
Sportsman in Calangute, which isnt very far from Santa Monica hotel, Babutes on top in calangute which is quite near and the ther is the sports bar in Candolim, which has large screens but thats a taxi ride away. Stayed at the santa monica Hotel its a nice hotel
Would that go for the Formula 1 cars too? lol tis only the start of the season and can%26#39;t be missing any! x
Thanks,
Thats a great help at least i know that we won%26#39;t miss that football now.
Marie.
Well if the formula 1 is on sky and people want to watch it i can%26#39;t see why they won%26#39;t put it on. when you going???
Hi Marie
Prayjots Why Not is just around the corner from the Santa Monica.
Its opposite the Falcon Resort and is run by Terry %26amp; Angela from Nottingham.
Footy is shown......
Regards
T%26amp;J
Hi
I go on 13th April. There are races 19th and 26th April lol. They are only shown on BBC in uk this year, so hopefully an indian chanel or something will have it on. I will be having satellite tv in hotel room so if worst comes to worst might be able to see it there!
When/how long are you there?
Jane x
Hi Jane
We go tomorrow for 2 weeks..;-)
Don%26#39;t bother with the Sportsbar in Candolim, stick to the Sportsman or Why Not in Calangute. The one in Candolim doubles the price of his drinks when the football is on.
Hi,
We go on the 6th april for 2 weeks our fisrt time can%26#39;t wait!!!
Hope u all have a good time.
Marie.
I%26#39;m going to Delhi and Mombai in April. Do you know any unusual places there?
I will be grateful for advices.
Unusual..... What exactly are yo looking for...
What do you term as unusual....
The interesting places that I can%26#39;t find in guidebook
What are your interests Droota - we would be able to make more pointed suggestions then.
I have 3 suggestions:
1. Tomb of Jamali Kamali - This is a hidden gem of Delhi, which is unknown to many of the Delhites also. It is at Mehrauli near to Qutub Minar.
2. Ugrasen-Ki-Baoli - An ancient stepwell in the heart of Delhi at Hailey Road, Connaught Place.
3. Visit a seemingly chaotic market - My first choice will be Sadar Bazar, you%26#39;ll be amazed at the efficiency despite all the constraints. Or you may visit bazars behind Jama Masjid.....Khari Baoli, Kinari Bazar, Dariba etc....
Would I be right in thinking that Fresian Airlines basic baggage allowance is still 20kg including 5kg hand baggage ?
You are correct.
Hi! Does anyone know if it is possible to camp in Pushkar in January (2009)? I understand the camps are seasonal... but cannot locate the specifics.
Any help appreciated!
you can try at THE PUSHAKR BAGH, they have 08 luxury tents and 08 luxury air-conditioned tents.
you can visit www.pushkarfaircamps.com or www.pushkartents.com
Why this craving to camp in Pushkar? Cant you make it to the real desert beyond Jodhpur and camp there?
Dear Sir , you are requested to try out the Risala resort. I am sanguine that it will be an unforgettable experience. Contact at www.therisalaresort.com or +91 9001353591
Regards,
Hitesh Chandel
hitesh1221@rediffmail.com
The management at the Risala Resort has been changed. Please do not book the resort till further news is posted.We desire the best for our clients please give us a month to overcome the drawbacks you all posted in various forums. Regards
%26#39;On Friday, a set of taxi drivers stopped an Akbar Travels car as it made its way out of the airport, abused the passengers (two women and their children), roughed up the driver and smashed the windscreens of the vehicle.%26#39;
Full story at:-
hindu.com/2009/…2009032360460300.htm
Not a very good way to start the holiday. I just hope that these people are able to enjoy the rest of thier holiday. As a good gesture, we would like to invite them to our Home this Saturday as we are having a special end of term lunch, with payasum. So if anyone know them, please pass on the messege.
Regards
Paul
Happy Childrens%26#39;s Home - Helper
Hi,
I am planning to visit Darjeeling by the end of August 07 for five days with my family. I would like to visit Sandakphu by jeep. Can anyone advice me about the trip, accommodation there and the expenses?
Hi,
Firstly I would advise you to try and postpone your visit to Darjeeling , since August will be very wet a season. And even if you do manage to come in August, the roads to Sandakphu will be treacherous and perilous-- and should be avoided by all means.
You will have to take a land rover jeep from Darjeeling for your trip to Sandakphu. The approx all inclusive rates are Rs 4000- per day per vehicle. There are trekkers huts which are available in Sandakphu and those are not very costly ( approx Rs 400 to 600 per night).
However pls be warned that the road to Sandakphu is practically not a road in its true sense ---it is a way laden with boulders and stones..and so the maxm speed possible is approx 15 to 20 kmph. Therefore in case you have some elderly people in your party, pls ask them to stay back in Darjeeling. Ideally, the best way to reach Sandakphu is by an overnight trek -- if you are adept at that.
Hi
A groupd of four or five of us plan a trekking trip to Sandakphu, looking at the end of Sept or early October. Plan to travel from Calcutta to New Jalpaiguri by the overnight train and make our way.
Your ideas and advice welcome. How cold will it be, what are recommended places to stay, how many days each way, anything else that you might want to add.
Thanks in advance..
Hi,
I am planning to visit Darjeeling by the end of march 09 for five days with my family. I would like to visit Sandakphu by jeep. Can anyone advice me about the trip, accommodation there and the expenses?
Hi,
I am planning to visit Darjeeling by the end of march 2009 for five days with my family. I would like to visit Sandakphu by jeep. Can anyone advice me about the trip, accommodation there and the expenses?
Hi,
You can arrange a jeep from the bus stand below the Mall in Darjeeling.
Accomodation in Sandakhpu is very basic. You probably should not take children along. Its very high and very cold up there.
Cost, mm..it has been a very long time since I did this trip, but it will be fairly expensive. I am not aware of present prices for the jeep, so it would be improper of me to guess. Ask around, try 2-3 operators before you book.
I want to get the
BANGALORE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT DEDICATED BUS SERVICE BMTC from the aiport to Bangalore
VAYU VAJRA or SUVARNA
in the afternoon
Do I need to book in advance, or is there plenty of seat availability so I can get a ticket on the day?
Does it go to Kempe Gowda Bus Station?
Thank-you
Plenty of seats available, right through the day( and night) just get into the bus and the conductor will issue a ticket.
Route No. BIAS 9 starts from Kempegowda Bus Station. More information can be had here - http://www.bmtcinfo.com/english/bial.html
-Srik
Pls Click on www.geeneo.com. u ll get bus route from Bangalore to main places in Bangalore
