12 Places In India To Explore On 2-Wheels

 India is full of Potholed Roads, we admit. But then the thrill of taking A Road-Trip in The Country and exploring the Scenic Beauty of India by Road is unparalleled. What if we told you some of the Cities in India are best viewed on a two-wheeler? Feeling the Wind Whistle past your helmet, the thrill of snaking through Narrow Lanes and Twisty Roads, Zooming Past Trucks and Cars...

Some Thrills of a 2-Wheeler can only be felt, not described. And when you combine a love for Travel and a set of 2-Wheels, The World is your Oyster! 

But which Cities can you explore on your favourite set of Wheels? Read on to know!

1. South Mumbai, Mumbai

The never-ending expanse of Sea, amazing Victorian Architecture and Open Roads... South Mumbai is One of The Best Places within the City to explore on a 2-Wheeler. What's more, there are tons of Eateries to stop by and hog at. Make sure you ride along Fort and take in all the British Architecture. Or if you're tired of riding, just stop your Scooter by the Sea, stop, breathe in the Fresh Sea Air and take off again!

2. All of Goa

The Scooter and Bike Capital of India. Seriously. If you visit Goa and travel any way other than by 2-Wheeler, then you don't deserve to be in Goa. The Roads around Baga and Candolim are a riot with vacationers and locals zooming around on their 2-Wheelers. Getting a 2-Wheeler on Rent in Goa is the easiest thing ever. Most of the locals rent them out. What's best? The Petrol Rates in Goa are cheap too! Ideal, isn't it?

3. Hampi, Vijaynagar

The Little Village of Hampi is One of The Best Places to explore on your Scooter. It can save you a lot of trouble of walking, plus you can go along at your own pace and enjoy the ride with spectacular views. In fact, the Temples of Hampi are a site to see while you're riding around. There are even many Scooter Renting Stores right outside the ruins for you to hop on and explore. 

4. Chandni Chowk, Delhi

The Tiny Little Lanes will enthrall you with the local seller wares, the crazy confusion of the City and its true colourful form. The Roads and Lanes are narrow enough to easily allow you to roam on your Scooter and while you're in there, do not forget to sample the delicious parathas at Parathewali Galli! 

5. Ludara, Jaisalmer

While in Jaisalmer try taking your Scooter from the Fort Ruins to Ludara. On your way, stop by the Sand Dunes and take a short Camel Safari if you wish. Taking a Scooter through the narrow lanes, you will be able to experience the real Rajasthani Life. Do not forget to stop by a "Dhaba" for some lip-smacking Rajasthani Food!

6. Malleswaram, Bangalore

The go-to place for every Bangalorean for shopping, hanging out or just buying daily necessities. The Road also houses some of The Most Popular Malls and is honestly, the coolest place to hop on and explore on your scooter.

7. M.G Road, Pune

A delight for all foodies and people looking to chill their evenings, M.G Road is One of The Most Famous Hangout Places in the city of Pune. The Roads are perfect to explore on a Scooter as you can zoom past all the crowds, easily park by any stall and basically enjoy yourself with friends.

8. Sector 1, Chandigarh

A Beautiful Tourist Location in India, the Wide Roads, lots of spaces and sights like the Rock Garden make Chandigarh an ideal place to explore on a Scooter. Traveling along Sector 1, you will get an idea of just how the City is and its Touristy Attractions. If you are a guy you can also try out the "Gedi" Route on your scooter. 

9. Park Street, Kolkata

'THE' hangout for everyone from Kolkata, Park Street is The Most Happening Place in the City. Loved by the youth, hop onto your Scooters and go exploring the Intricacies of the Gastronomic Capital of The Country!

10. Hill Road, Mumbai

Leading straight to the heart of Mumbai, Bollywood and Beaches, Hill Road is One of The Most Popular Roads for Mumbaikars. Whether it's the shopping, the Chaat or the "crowd", Hill Road is just the place to explore on a Scooter as it let's you navigate the crowds easily. Just park your Scooter opposite Mannat or Sallu Bhai's House and wave like crazy!

11. Janpath Market, Delhi

Another great shopping destination, Janpath offers great sights and fun for locals as well as Tourists. Explore the place on your 2-Wheels and discover new facets of the City! If you want to shop, pick up something for your family and stow it away under the scooter seat. 

12. Race Course, Coimbatore

A Short Ride along the Race Course on your 2-Wheeler will let you experience the cool air, lots of trees, smiling faces and some quick roadside refreshments like soda or chips.

10 Wildlife Sanctuaries of India

India has 515 Wildlife Sanctuaries. Out of these, 41 are Tiger Reserves. 

And then there are Others with Plenty of Birds and Lesser Known Species. 

Excited enough? Because we're bringing you 10 National Parks you need to visit right away! 

1. Desert National Park 

This is situated in the State of Rajasthan, close to Jaisalmer. 20% of this Park is covered with Sand Dunes. This Park has a wide variety of Birds, Both Migratory and Resident. But it is most famous for the Endangered Great Indian Bustard. Additionally, this Park has 180-million-year-Old Fossils including those of Dinosaurs (which are 6 million years old). Animals that you can spot here are the Blackbuck, Desert Fox and the Wolf. The best months to visit are from October to March. 

2. Gir National Park 

This Park is situated in the State of Gujrat, 65 km from Junagadh. It is The Only Home of the Asiatic Lions and that makes it one of the most protected areas in Asia. One can also find Indian leopards, crocodiles, cobras, jungle cats, golden jackals, striped hyenas and ratels. There are more than 300 species of birds in this park. The best time to visit is from December to March. 

3. Kanha National Park 

This National Park is not only the perfect place to spot Tigers, but is also a paradise for Nature Lovers. There are Sal and Bamboo Forests and Grassy Meadows all over the Forest. In fact, this Forest provided the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's famous novel Jungle Book. It has a substantial population of Bengal Tigers, Leopards, The Sloth Bear, Barasingha and Indian Wild Dog. Additionally, it is home to over 1000 species of Flowering Plants. The best time to visit this park is from February to June. 

4. Sunderbans National Park 

Besides being a National Park, this place is also a Tiger and Biosphere Reserve, located in West Bengal. The National Park is covered with Mangrove Forests and is one of The Largest Reserves of the Bengal Tiger in India. One can spot a variety of Birds and the Salt-Water Crocodile in this Park. The best part about this Park is that the only way to roam about the territory is by Boats. The best time to visit is from December to February. 

5. Mahatama Gandhi Marine National Park 

This is situated in Wandoor on the Andaman Islands, 29 kms from Port Blair. The Park is made up of 15 Islands and you can see Open Sea Creeks running through the area. During the season, Glass Bottom Boats are available to enjoy the Island along with activities like Scuba Diving and Snorkeling. The Park is famous for Coral Reefs and Sea Turtles. The best months to visit are from December to April. 

6. Namdapha National Park 

Located in the State of Arunachal Pradesh, this is The 3rd Largest National Park in India. This Park is a hotspot of Biodiversity. You can spot Snow Leopards, Common Leopards, Tigers and Red Foxes here. Additionally, it has about 425 Species of Birds including 5-Species of Hornbills. The best time to visit this park is from October to March. 

7. Balpakram National Park 

If you want to enjoy Wildlife with a little bit of culture thrown in, this is The National Park for you. Balpakram is situated in Meghalaya, near the Garo Hills. It is also referred to as the Abode of Perpetual Winds or the Land of Spirits. According to a Garo Myth, this Park is The Land of Eternal Death. It is rich in Biodiversity and is home to Barking Deer and the Golden Cat. Canyon is yet another attraction of this National Park. The best time to visit this place is from October to March. 

8. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary 

This Sanctuary is situated in Karnataka. It is an Ideal Vacation Spot for Tourists. The Sanctuary is located by the River surrounded by Deciduous Forests and Diverse Variety of Animals and Birds. One can spot Wild Pigs, Sloth Bears, Panthers and other Fascinating Species. There are about 200 Species of Birds in this Forest. The best time to visit this place is from November to June. 

9. Khangchendzonga National Park

This is located in Sikkim and gets its name from the Mountain Kanchenjunga, The 3rd Largest Peak in the World. This Park is full of Glaciers and one can spot Animals like Musk Deer, Snow Leopard and Himalayan Tahr. About 550 Species of Birds can be spotted in this Park, but sadly, you need a permit to visit. The best time to visit is from March to May. 

10. Kaziranga National Park 

This is situated in Assam and is A World Heritage Site. This Park is home to two-thirds of The World's 1-Horned Rhinoceroses. Apart from Animals, you can spot a variety of Birds here including Scavengers, Water Birds, Predators and Game Birds. In fact, Kaziranga's Rivers are also home to an Endangered Species of Dolphin. You can explore this Forest in a Jeep or opt for an Elephant Tour. The best time to visit this park is from November to April. 

11 Cycling Road Trips You Must Take In India

 Wanted to go on a Road Trip in India, but were left wondering how as Petrol Prices are Normally Crazy and Roads just too bad.

Hire a Cycle! 

That way you help the Environment, Get Loads of Exercise and also manage to Be Part of A Thrilling Adventure!!

1. Leh and Ladakh

Primarily considered the Motor Biker's Paradise, Leh and Ladakh can be a blessing for Cyclists too. The Rides are not for the Weak-Hearted, mind you. The Curving Lanes, the Scenes, the Crisp Mountain Air and the Heavenly Scenery just adds to the Thrill. There are Many Agencies who Offer Different Cycling Tours for Cycling Enthusiasts and if you haven't explored Leh-Ladakh on a Cycle, you've seriously missed out on something in life!

2. Hampi and Badami Ruins

The Little Village of Hampi is one of The Best Places to explore on your Bike. The Ruins are an Archaeological Site that are simply Mesmerizing and provide Narrow Lanes and By-Lanes to Traverse. The Kutcha Roads, Village-like feel and the Ruins in the backdrop call for a ride that will take your breath away. Literally. 

3. Rann of Kutch

Riding across a Flat Barren and Dried up Desert Land might not exactly sound appealing but the Sights the Desert has to offer are unparalleled by anything else. The Ride is challenging as the barren soil can test the skill and patience of even a Seasoned Rider. There are really no Roads to follow and you create your own. Beware of the Wildlife there though. A Perfect Cycle Tour for the Adventure Lover.

4. Shimla to Manali

A Very Touristy Place, the Passes of Manali can be extremely challenging for your Cycle. The Sights and the Snow will make you never want to stop Riding! All the while, the Curling Beas River will play alongside making you want to rush and dip your feet in the Cold, Clear Water. It is an Amazing ride. Just gear up and set off!

5. Jaisalmer

Another Desert to cross but this one is very different from the Rann of Kutch. While Kutch offers slightly Hardened Sand, Biking through Jaisalmer will mostly be over actual Sand and Sand Dunes. Don't forget The Rich Rajasthani Culture, The Palaces and the Food! The Heat, the Sandy Roads, the Rich Culture and Camel Tete-a-Tetes make a great setting for a Bicycle Ride.

6. Arunachal Pradesh

Not just Arunachal Pradesh but all of North East India is a delight for Riders. Being the North Eastern-most state, Arunachal Pradesh is often An Entry Spot into Bhutan. Being so distant from the rest of India, Arunachal Pradesh has its own Charm and a Unique Culture. You'll be stopping more to absorb the Scenes around you, than Riding, we bet you! Also, the Rides will be at High Altitudes and in the Cold, so there's no feeling better than feeling the Wind Whistle past.

7. Munnar

Situated in South India, this Beautiful Hill Station is Ethereal. With Mountain Slopes converted into Tea-Gardens and Abundant Greenery, The Hill Station is a salve to the eyes. And for Bike Tours, this forms the perfect place as it does offer some Adventure with lots of Sight-Seeing options. In fact, you can even try your hand at picking Tea-Leaves and brewing your own Chai!

8. Uttaranchal

From the Valley of Flowers to the Holy Abode of Lord Shiva, Uttaranchal boasts of some of The Most Beautiful Sights India has to offer. The State cannot be divided into regions as each and every part has so much on offer for a Cycling Enthusiast. One of The Most Testing Trips, Uttaranchal is a Cyclist's Dream.

9. Sikkim

Another beauty in North East India, Sikkim competes with Munnar when it comes to Tea-Train Sights. However, with The National Parks and Abundant Lifestyle, the 2 Trails are as different as Fire and Water. Pack your bags and go on a Cycling Trip in Sikkim with lots of Exquisite Cuisine and Nature to comfort you.

10. Western Coastline from Maharashtra to Goa

This can be one of The Most Arduous Journeys at times while at others, it can be simply Leisurely. The Cycling Trip along the Western Ghats is a mixed bag with each goodie better than the previous one. The Serene Coast-Line, Virgin Beaches, Delicious Local Cuisine and Twisty Roads... What more can any Cyclist ask for?

11. Maikal Hills

Located in Chhatisgarh, Maikal Hills offer Amazing Sights and Adventure for Mountain Bike Lovers. Filled with Natural Beauty and Challenging Tracks, the Bike Ride is Thrilling. A part of Central India, Chhatisgarh has a Varied Landscape to offer from Hills to Flat Plateaus and you can stretch your Ride to include even other Tourist Locations.

Lesser Known 11 Forts In India With Fascinating History

Forts have played An Important Role in the Medieval History of India and perhaps the World. Just like the Medieval Kings of Europe who based their Kingdoms around Highly Secure Castles, Forts built by Chieftains, Clans and Rulers served as a Defense Mechanism against Invaders. Many of these Forts fortified Households and Entities that owed allegiance to the Ruler, so it was almost like a Small City of its own. The Archaeological Survey Of India has Numerous Forts listed as Heritage Monuments some which outdo the others. You may not have heard of These Medieval Monuments before, but they have played an Equally Important Role in the functioning of what used to be their domain once upon a time. 

1. Ahilya Fort, Maheswar, Madhya Pradesh

Maheswar is located 91 km from the Indore City on the northern bank of the Narmada River. It was once the Capital of the Malwa Region which was ruled by the Holkar Dynasty of the Maratha Clan for 4000 years. Queen Ahilyabai Holkar built the Fort along the banks of the River Narmada due to her devotion to Shiv as it was a product of his being. Even today you can see Ghats leading down from the Fort where Ceremonial Rituals are performed. 

The Fort houses a Temple Complex fully devoted to Shiv with distinct Maratha Architecture. The Queen is remembered for her excellent administrative abilities and patronage towards Cottage Industries that flourish today. A Room in the Fort houses her collection of Idols of Shiv cast in Gold and Silver. The most spectacular is the Golden Swing on which she would seat the Idols. Ahilyabai's Court, where she would consult her Generals, has been restored and gives an idea of her life in those days.

Currently the Ahilya Fort is run as A Heritage Hotel which is still owned by the descendants of the family. 

2. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan

Kumbhalgarh Fort was built by Rana Kumbha of Mewar in the 15th century and is said to resemble the Great Wall of China due to its 36 km long perimeter of Walls. The Fort separated Mewar from Marwar and was said to be impenetrable thereby allowing a safe refuge for Mewar Rulers who came under threat. The Fort fell due to a shortage of Water and a Joint Invasion by the Mughals, Raja Man Singh of Amber, Raja Udai Singh of Marwar and the Mirzas of Gujarat. 

The Fort Complex encloses upon fertile lands of the Kingdom as well as 360 Temples, 300 of which are Jain. The Thick Walls of the Fort (up to 15 feet wide) have 7 Gateways. Today the Fort is a Museum and some parts of the complex are off limits due to the fear of defense mechanisms and traps that may not have been disabled.  

3. Daulatabad Fort, Maharashtra

Originally built as the Devgiri Fort by the Yadavas, it was later renamed as Daulatabad Fort when it came under the possession of Muhamed-bin Tughluq in the 14th century. It is 11 km north-west of Aurangabad and is situated on an isolated Cone-Shaped hill rising abruptly from the Plain to the height of about 190 meters. The Fortification constitutes 3 Concentric Lines of Defensive Walls with a large number of Bastions. The noteworthy features of the Fort are the Moat, the Scarp and the Subterranean Passage, all made of Solid Rock. The upper outlet of the Passage was filled with an Iron Grating, on which a Large Fire could be used to prevent the progress of the Enemy. The Chand Minar, the Chini Mahal and the Baradari are the Important Structures within the Fort.

4. Bidar Fort, Karnataka

The City of Bidar on the Plateau of northern Karnataka was founded by the Bahmanid Dynasty when they shifted their Capital there. Bidar Fort was built by 1428 by Ahmed Shah Bahmani and takes up a high ridge of land which is enclosed by Double Rings of Wall with nearly 5 Darwazas.

A part of this Castle is partly carved out of Bedrock. The Fort houses The Ancient City of the Bahamani Dynasty along with its Palaces, Monuments and Structures. Of all the Rangin Mahal Palace is a Wonderful Monument built in the 16th century by Ali Shah Barid. The Main Attraction of this Rangin Mahal are the Wooden Columns displaying ornate brackets and beams. There is also a Walled Garden, Lal Bagh close to the Rangin Mahal with a Central Lobe-Fringed Pool.

5. Narwar Fort, Madhya Pradesh

Built in Rajput Style, this Fort is perched atop a hill 500 ft above ground level. It was built by the Kachwaha Clan of Rajputs in the 10th century and was later occupied by other Clans, the Mughals and finally the Scindias in the 19th century. 

Today the Narwar Fort stands in a dilapidated state but once stood second in magnificence to the Gwalior Fort. The flat ceilings, fluted columns and multifoil arches are typical in Construction. The Internal Walls are adorned with bright paint and glass beads. 

6. Dhandidhar Fort, Jammu and Kashmir

The Dhandidhar Fort is located 2 km from the District of Rajouri. This Fort offer Panoramic Views of the Verdant Valley. The Dhandidhar Fort was maintained under the supervision of Mian Hathu. Apart from the commanding view of the entire town, the Fort was used to store the Food Grains that were paid by the Farmers as revenues. 

This Fort had served the purpose of Defense to the Dogra Rulers who easily hid themselves inside this Fort for their safety. The History reveals that the Fort was The Best Place from where the Soldiers carried out their War Operations. It worked as a haven to provide regular training. 

7. Warangal Fort, Telangana 

The Warangal Fort was built in the 13th century by the Kakatiya Dynasty during the Reign of King Ganapatideva. It was destroyed by the Invaders and as such only the Ruins of the Fort can be seen. There is a Mud Wall of around 20 feet which surrounds the entire Fort while the IInd layer is of Granite. The Fort consists of Impressive Stone Gateways which have a height of around 30 feet. They are carved out of Single Rock. The Gateways are known as Kirti Toran and consist of beautiful carvings of Lord Vishnu carried by Garuda and surrounded by attendants. 45 Towers in the Fort and Pillars are spread over an area of 19 kms. There is a Temple of Mother Earth called 'Swayambhudevi Alayam'.

8. Qila Mubarak, Punjab

Qila Mubarak is The Oldest Fort in India as it is believed to have been built in 90-110 AD by the Kushana Emperor Kanishka. Today it stands near the City of Bhatinda in Punjab. It is also One of The Highest Forts in elevation despite being built with small bricks. Visitors today walk into the same entrance through which Historical Figures like Razia Sultana, Prithviraj Chauhan, Sultan Mahmud and Guru Gobind Singh had once entered. 

The Fort houses 2 Gurudwaras and the Prison built for Razia Sultana (the Ist Female Delhi Sultanate Ruler) where she was incarcerated by Malik Altunia, the Governor of Bhatinda.

9. Chiktan Fort, Jammu and Kashmir

The Chiktan Fort is located in the Kargil District of Ladakh by the River Indus. The Fort was built in the 16th century and was 9 storeys high. Unfortunately, today it stands in Ruins as just Walls and Rubble. It gives the image of a castle with the backdrop of snow capped mountains. The view from the fort is equally spectacular. 

10. Murud Janjira Fort, Maharashtra

This Fort is located in the port town of Murud which is 165 km south of Mumbai on a Small Island. Originally the Fort was a Small Wooden Structure built by a Koli Chief in the late 15th century.

It has a Small Gate towards the Open Sea for escape. The Fort has 19 rounded bastions which are still intact. There are many Canons of Native and European make rusting on the bastions. Now in Ruins, the Fort in its heyday had all necessary facilities, e.g., Palaces, Quarters for Officers, Mosque, a Big Fresh Water Tank etc. On the Outer Wall of the Main Gate, there is a Sculpture that depicts a Tiger clasping Elephants in its Claws. This Sculpture is difficult to interpret and appears on many Fort-Gates in Maharashtra.

11. Bekal Fort, Kerala

Bekal Fort is near the Pallikkara Village in the Kasargod District and is one of The Best Preserved in the Southern State. The Fort spreading over 40 acres, has Massive Walls about 12 meters in height and is built of Local Laterite Stones. It is a Large Fort, the Wall and Ramparts on the sea side being strong and interspersed by the bastions with openings for Guns. The Main Gate is towards the east and was protected by bastions. A ditch surrounds the Fort on the land side. The Important Features of this Fort are the Tank with its Flight of Steps, the opening of the Tunnel towards the south, the Magazine for keeping ammunition and a Wide Ramp leading to the Observation Tower.

This Tower provides a fascinating view of the surrounding area. From there one has ample view of all the important places in the Vicinity and also has the Strategic Significance in ascertaining the Safety of the Fort. The voids in the Massive Laterite Walls were used for Placing Guns.