These Honeymoon Destinations that Scream Romance

Planning your wedding and making it perfect requires a lot of work, you have to take care of every factor that make your marriage special. And the best way to celebrate your marriage is to go for a great honeymoon.

So, to help you out picking the right honeymoon destinations, we have tailored a list to let you know that there are amazing places in the country waiting for you and your partner to come visit.

1. Srinagar – Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar should be your first preference as the surreal beauty of the city will make your honeymoon moments magical in every way possible. Srinagar is home to sparkling lake, lush valleys, and high mountains which all make up for picturesque scenery.

The best perk of choosing Srinagar as your honeymoon destination is the city, unlike other honeymoon destinations, isn’t jam packed with tourists. The best time to visit Srinagar would be during the Autumn and Summer season as the weather becomes pleasant. Houseboats, shopping in local markets, skiing, and shikara rides are the popular experience in Srinagar that you shouldn’t miss out.

2. Darjeeling – West Bengal

Darjeeling is a town and hill station in India that has a natural beauty which is unlike any other. The picturesque town represents purity, humility and love while embracing an unparalleled reputation of being one of most favoured tourist destinations in the world.

What makes Darjeeling a special honeymoon destination is a surreal beauty bestowed by the king of mountains – the Himalayas. Some of the romantic attractions worth visiting in Darjeeling include Tiger Hill, Shrubbery Nightingale Park, Peace Pagoda, Mall Road, and Chowrasta.

Booking honeymoon hotels in Darjeeling

To best embrace your magical honeymoon vehemence and the natural beauty of the town, you’ve got to make your stay in a colonial hotel in Darjeeling and the best option is the Windamere Hotel, which is the finest in the town. Windamere has never been removed – just restored.  It was originally built in 1841 for the old Raj Tea Planters.  Since then many couple in love have experienced a true Himalayan charm and a sense of this being a very special time in their lives.

3. Nainital – Uttarakhand

Nainital is another perfect honeymoon destination for the newly weds. The quaint and romantic hill station doesn’t fail to mesmerise you with grand mountains and wonderful lakes.

Some of the must-visit attractions in Nainital include Sattal, Nainital Lake, Naina Peak, Eco Cave Gardens, and High Altitude Zoo. May to October is the best time to visit Nainital if you want to experience the magical pleasant weather of the city.

4. Lakshadweep Islands

Lakshadweep is home to some of the most exotic (and uninhabited) beaches in India. The white sands and a bluish-green tinge of the beaches’ shorelines will make your honeymoon moments priceless.

Lakshadweep is a perfect option for you if you prefer absolute solitude. The beaches in Lakshadweep are the closest to nature and you can celebrate the beginning of your life’s new chapter in the best way possible. Some of the top experiences in Lakshadweep include island shopping and water sports such as scuba diving, and snorkelling.

Love History? Check out These Hotels and Take a Walk Down the Memory Lane

Heritage hotels in India are a testimony to the rich historical past of the country. These hotels exude the exquisite culture, art and literature, and lifestyle of the days gone by. If you are a history buff, then you must visit these heritage hotels in India.

1. Windamere Hotel – Darjeeling
Windamere Hotel is reminiscent of the British Raj as it was built by English and Scottish tea planters as a summer boarding house (Ada Villa). The Colonial hotel in Darjeeling has an authentic old-world English charm (which is very rare) as it was restored and not renovated for commercial purpose.

The exterior and interior of the Colonial hotel speak for themselves as they feature vintage English embellishment; add that to the spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga which visitors can enjoy right from the porch/balconies.

Book your stay at the Windamere Hotel

Booking your stay in the finest Colonial Hotel in India, the Windamere Hotel, has two big perks – you’ll get to live the magical and authentic old-world English mores, and enjoy the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Darjeeling.

2. Fortune the Savoy – Mussoorie

Fortune the Savoy is an English Gothic country house that runs as a heritage hotel. The biggest fascination of Fortune the Savoy is the country-style rooms with wooden floors, coffee making machines, and minibars.

The vintage rooms feature a blend of modernism with facilities such as free internet connection (Wi-Fi) and HD TVs. Fortune the Savoy also gets credits for a wonderful hospitality as room services are available 24/7. Other features of the hotel include a spa (with steam rooms), a refined bar, and a polished restaurant.

3. THE LaLit GREAT EASTERN Kolkata – Kolkata

Apart from being the first luxury hotel in all over Asia, the THE LaLit GREAT EASTERN Kolkata is also a heritage landmark in Kolkata. THE LaLit GREAT EASTERN Kolkata also has an unparalleled reputation of being the longest operating hotel for 165 years.

THE LaLit GREAT EASTERN Kolkata has been restored and doesn’t miss out on its original glory. The heritage hotel is an amalgamation of three different eras and their style – Victorian, Edwardian, and Contemporary. The LaLit Great Eastern Kolkata is referred to as “Jewel of the East.”  The hotel has had notable personalities as guests including Queen Elizabeth II, Mark Twain, Nikita Khrushchev, Rudyard Kipling, and Mahatma Gandhi.

4. The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel – Mumbai

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai is a prominent historical and architectural structure in all over India; it is also the first landmark harbour in Mumbai (earlier than the Gateway of India).

The conduct of The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is considered as “Heritage Grand” class. It is also the flagship property of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces (a chain of hotels and resorts).

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel was first opened by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamestji Nusserwanji Tata. The hotel is best recognised for its luxurious hospitality and intricate exterior work.

Explore these Romantic Destinations that are Simply Perfect

There are countless stunning destinations in the world that make up for perfect romantic getaways but only a few which truly embraces the beauty or romance.

Here are some of the perfect romantic destinations that you need to explore.

1) Paris – France

Paris, the city of love, is a must-visit romantic destination. The city is best popular for fine art, wine, charming cafes, and of course, the weather – all of which exude the aura of love in the city. The unmistakable grandiosity of the Eiffel Tower and the ever-beautiful weather are what draw honeymooners worldwide throughout the year.
Apart from the romantic aura, Paris is also popular for glorious food (particularly dining), and stylish shopping.

2) Santorini - Greece

It’s a bet that even if you are not familiar with Santorini you have seen the charming beauty of the island as several movies such as Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life have showcased the island.
Santorini is popular for having the most spectacular sunset on Earth and therefore the island attracts a number of visitors every year. Apart from the surreal sceneries, Santorini also fascinates visitors with delectable sea food.

3) Darjeeling – India

Although there are several romantic places in India, the one romantic destination that you shouldn’t miss out is Darjeeling. Surrounded by lush emerald-green tea plantation and the majestic Himalayas, romance oozes in every aspect of Darjeeling.

There are several romantic attractions to visit in Darjeeling; these include the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Chowrasta, Tiger Hill, Senchal Lake, and Chatakpur.

Book hotel in Darjeeling

As Darjeeling is also reminiscent of the British Raj, you’d definitely want to experience the vintage English charm. And to do this, you need to book your stay at the Windamere Hotel – a fine Colonial hotel in Darjeeling.

4) Bali – Indonesia

If you haven’t visited Bali, then go through some of the photos on the internet and it’s a bet that you will want to go there. The beauty of Bali is simply irresistible; the white sand beaches, lush forests and volcanic mountains will leave you mesmerised in every instant.

Some of the most popular and romantic places to visit in Bali include Kintamani, Gunung Agung, Nusa Dua, and Uluwatu.

5) London - United Kingdom

London is a city for lovers and is a most sought-after romantic destination. The cool and chilly weather of the city alone suffice for arousing the romance in you. Soaking up history and culture, lounging in cosy pubs, taking a stroll through the parks, and catching local shows/ act are what make spending time in London romantically worthwhile.
London is also home to some of the most popular marvels in the world including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London.

6) Venice - Italy

Venice is considered as the epitome of romance as the city’s sparkling disposition is unlike any other. Embracing the streets, waterways, historic buildings, and local food is the priceless joy you get to experience nowhere but in Italy.

Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Saint Mark’s Basilica, and Bridge of Sighs are some of the most popular attractions to visit in Venice.

4 Places in India you Can't Afford to Miss

Unity and warm bond in diversity – that’s what India is all about. The South Asian country is a one-of-its-kind as the geographical disparity is absolutely overwhelming. And it’s because of this divergence that there are places in India that you simply cannot miss to visit.

Here are some of these places:

1. Agra – home of the Taj Mahal

Yes, Agra comes first in this list for an obvious reason – it is the home of the Taj Mahal which (as you may know) is one of the seven wonders of the world. As Taj Mahal is one of the most beautiful structures in the world, Agra is amassed by tourists from all over the world throughout the year.

The mausoleum towers on the bank of the Yamuna River and fascinates visitor with its exquisite and intricate marble-ivory exterior work. Apart from the Taj Mahal, other popular attractions in Agra include the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah (a Mughal mausoleum), Agra Fort, and the Yamuna.

2. Darjeeling – The Queen of The Hills

To get such a reputation is obvious for Darjeeling as the town has a natural beauty which is not matched by other places in India. Darjeeling is popular for the three T’s – Tea, Tourism, and Toy Train.

The economy of the entire Hill region in Darjeeling depends upon tea plantation and tourism. Darjeeling is most popular for its tea as its brand, the Darjeeling Tea, which has an exquisite and unique aroma, is highly treasured in the West. If you haven’t been to Darjeeling, you should visit the town as you’ll definitely fall in love with the town’s magical and fairytale-like aura.

And as Darjeeling was a favourite summer retreat for the British officers, several summer boarding houses were built by English and Scottish tea planters in the town. One of the famous boarding house was Ada Villa – which has now been restored and turned into a Colonial hotel known as the Windamere Hotel.

Book hotels in Darjeeling near Mall Road

The best way to enjoy the most in Darjeeling is to stay in a hotel near the Mall Road (most happening place in the town). And guess what? The Windamere Hotel just happens to be located on the Mall Road (Observatory Hill) and you can book your stay there.

3. Jaipur – the pink city

Known as the “Pink City of India,” Jaipur is another place in India that you simply can’t afford to miss to visit. When you visit Jaipur, you’ll see that almost every wall in the city is painted in pink (which was done to welcome Queen Victoria and Edward VII in 1876).

Most tourists visit Jaipur to witness the grandiosity of the Amber Fort which was built by Raja Man Singh in 1600. Apart from the Amber Fort, Jaipur is also popular for other historic attractions including the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and City Palace.

4. Varanasi – the holiest of the holy

Varanasi is a city like no other; the city is an important pilgrimage for Hindu devotees as it is home to the River Ganges. Thousands of Hindus visit Varanasi to take a holy dip on the banks of Ganged (which, according to beliefs, washes sins).

Lively religious ceremonies, magical boat rides, and walk along the ghats are just what make the experience of visiting the holy city priceless.

Colonial Hotels that Take you Back to the Raj Era

The era of British rule in India has now become history, but the vestige of the old colonial years still remains. Colonial hotels (built by the British) are the most conspicuous reminiscent of the bygone British raj – one of the most important aspects of Indian history.

Here we unravel some of the colonial hotels that take you back to the British raj.

1) Windamere Hotel – Darjeeling

Darjeeling was the favourite summer retreat for the British officers and therefore many boarding houses (“homes away from homes”) were built in the town. One such was ‘Ada Villa’ –a boarding house which eventually was restored and named ‘Windamere Hotel’. We say “restored” and not “renovated”, as this would have changed the very intrinsic nature of the old British Raj establishment. Ada Villa has been transformed into a fine Colonial hotel for bestowing on visitors an opportunity to experience the vintage English mores. The Windamere Hotel is the only Colonial hotel in Darjeeling (and in India) which has a rare unspoiled Colonial authenticity.

Book hotel in Darjeeling

So, the next time you visit Darjeeling, make sure that you book your stay at the Windamere Hotel to experience the true British Colonial charm while enjoying the beauty of the Darjeeling hills.

2) Rambagh Palace – Jaipur

Rambagh Palace (not to be confused with Ram Bagh Palace Hotel) is the former residence of the Maharajah of Jaipur and now a hotel.

Initially, the building was started as a garden house in 1835. After being converted into a royal hunting lodge, the establishment was expanded and designed under the authority of Sir Samuel Swindon Jacob during the early 20th century.

It was in 1931, when a number of royal suites were added as Maharajah Sawai Man Singh II made Rambagh, his main residence. Now, Rambagh, as a hotel, retains its elaborate splendour with pristine architecture and royal hospitality.

3) Clarkes Hotel – Shimla

Clarkes was built in 1898 and is recognised as a grand heritage/Colonial hotel. It is also one of the oldest hotels in Shimla and is located on Mall Road.

Clarkes Hotel embodies the charm of the Colonial yesteryears with the pristine architectural beauty and world class service. The hotel is also situated very near to popular attractions in Shimla including Rothney Castle, Gorton Castle, Gaiety Theatre, and several other Colonial era buildings.

The rooms and suites of the hotel have a unique British Colonial ambience. And they have been enhanced with modern facilities such as satellite TV and Wireless internet access. Accommodation options include Premier Rooms, Suites, Superior Rooms, and Deluxe Rooms.

4) The Imperial Hotel –New Delhi

The Imperial Hotel is a fine confluence of the old world Indian and English appeal. It was conceptualised by Blomfield, built by Sardar Bahadur Ranjit Singh, and inaugurated by Lord Willington in 1936.

The Imperial Hotel hashtag an unparalleled aura of the 19th century English Manor with Italian marble floors, tableware from London, silver tea service, and undulating green lawns.

These Indian Destinations are Popular with Bollywood Film Makers

Love it or hate it, Bollywood is the essence of India. As Bollywood is all about musicals, joy, and liveliness, the Indian filmmakers do an outstanding job by picking out just the right locations in the country and turn them into an international tourist destination overnight.

Here are some of the destinations that are popular with Bollywood filmmakers.

1. Manali – Himachal Pradesh

The prominent town in Himachal Pradesh is home to the beautiful ranges and it’s a top pick for Indian filmmakers. With the surreal beauty of Manali, the camera crew and cinematographers don’t face any challenge in getting breathtaking shots.

Ranbir Kapoor’s super hit movie “Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani” gave a major boost to the tourism of the town. Ever since then, Manali has become more popular and enjoys thousands of tourists every year.

2. Rohtang Pass – Himachal Pradesh

Situated around 51km from Manali is Rohtang Pass which is Indian filmmakers’ favourite.  And there’s a definite reason for that as there are a lot of geographical marvels in the mountain pass. Movies such as Dev D, Highway, and Jab We Met have glorified the raw/natural wonderment of Rohtang Pass.

3. Ladakh – Jammu and Kashmir

Ladakh is again another go-to shooting spot for Bollywood filmmakers. Pangong Lake in specific has become a favourite as it is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in India. Blockbuster movies such as Jab Tak Hai Jaan and 3 Idiots feature the unspoiled beauty of Pangong Lake.

4. Kashmir – Jammu and Kashmir

To capture the unadulterated beauty of Kashmir through the camera lens seems to have become some sort of a passion for Indian filmmakers. The snow capped mountains and green meadows of Kashmir have bestowed surreal backdrop to a number of songs and dance routines.

Super hit movies such as Rockstar, Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani, Haider, and Highway have reminded us that Kashmir is more than just Dal Lake.

5. Goa

We’ve all seen how Bollywood filmmakers embrace the beauty of Goa in many films such as Dil Chahta Hai, Rangeela, Dhoom, and Honeymoon Travels. Goa has been a muse of Bollywood with its enchanting waterfalls, mesmerising beaches and pristine churches.

6. Munnar – Kerala

There’s more to explore in Munnar than just the backwaters, and Bollywood has proved this by showcasing the sense tingling natural beauty of the town in movies such as Life of Pi, Nishabd, and Chennai Express.

7. Darjeeling – West Bengal

Darjeeling is the favourite hill station for Indian filmmakers and every movie that’s been shot in Darjeeling, including Aradhana, Main Hoon Na,  Parineeta, and Barfi, showcase the town’s iconic toy train. And you too cannot help but enjoy a ride in the toy train when you visit Darjeeling.

Book hotels in Darjeeling

Apart from the breathtaking natural beauty, Darjeeling is also home to some of the best heritage hotels in India. As Darjeeling is also popular with its old world English charm, you should book your stay at the Windamere Hotel – the finest colonial hotel in India.