भारत स्थित एशिया का सबसे महंगा होटल - राज पैलेस

भारत का सबसे महंगा होटल ही एशिया का सबसे महंगा होटल भी है 

तथा विश्व मे 5वे स्थान पर है, उसका नाम है "राज महल या राज पैलेस" 

राज पैलेस राजस्थान के जयपुर मे स्थित है, जिसे 1727 ईस्वी मे तत्कालीन राज के प्रधानमंत्री "ठाकुर मोहन सिंह जी" ने बनवाया था। इस महल मे आज भी उनकी 16वी पीढ़ी के वंशज और वर्तमान मालिक "राजकुमारी जयेन्द्र कुमारी" निवास कर रही है।

इस होटल के "शाही महल सुइट" का 1 रात का किराया करीब 65,000 अमेरिकी डॉलर है। जिसे यदि आज के हिसाब से भारतीए रुपये मे देखे तो यह करीब 47 लाख 50 हजार होगा।

होटल को भारतीए सरकार द्वारा "भारत के सर्वश्रेष्ठ विरासती होटल" के रूप मे सम्मानित किया गया है, इतना ही नहीं यह होटल "विश्व यात्रा पुरस्कारों " द्वारा लगातार 7 बार "दुनिया के अग्रणी विरासती होटल" के रूप मे चुना जा चुका है।

1997 मे होटल के रूप मे खुले इस महल को सिर्फ 2 साल बाद 1999 मे "राष्ट्रीय रत्न पुरस्कार" से सम्मानित किया गया।

2002 मे बैंकॉक मे "इंटरनेशनल गोल्ड स्टार मिलेनियम अवॉर्ड" से सम्मानित किया गया।

2006 मे "स्पेन" के "मेड्रिड" मे होटल खान-पान और पर्यटन के लिए 32 वां "अंतराष्ट्रीयए पुरस्कार" और सर्वश्रेष्ठ विरासत होटल के लिए "राष्ट्रीय पर्यटन पुरस्कार" प्राप्त हुआ।

2007 - 2013 तक लगातार 7 बार विश्व के अग्रणी विरासत होटल का खिताब मिला।

2008 - 2014 तक लगातार 7 बार एशिया के अग्रणी होटल सुइट का खिताब मिला।

CNN ने राज पैलेस को दुनिया का सबसे शानदार डेस्टिनेशन बताया है तथा इसके प्रेसिडेंशियल सुइट को एशिया का सबसे अच्छा सुइट और दुनिया का पहला इन -सुइट संग्रहालय कहा है।

फिर भी कुछ लोग हमारे भारत को बहुत कम आँकते है, क्योंकि इसकी अखंडता और संस्कृति को आज लोग भूल चुके है। 

A Paradise on Earth - Kerala

They call it "God's Own Country." 

It could be the Pristine Beaches and Towering Cliffs rising high above them, or it could be the Endlessly Intricate Network of Rivers, Lagoons and Canals fringed by Palm Trees and Greenery that earned the Southwestern Indian State its nickname. 

Or it could be the Cultural Mix of Muslims, Hindus and Christians who all live peacefully side by side. Whatever the Origin of the Slogan, Kerala continues to fulfill and even exceed the expectation of Travelers who have been lured by the pull of A Paradise on Earth. 

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.