4 Must Places to Enjoy Christmas in India

Christmas week in India has its own distinct flavour. If you are celebrating Christmas in India or even planning to do so, then check these places to soak into the Christmas spirit:

1. Manali

This Himalayan destination unfurls new hues and grandeur during the Christmas week celebrations. The snow capped mountains; pristine white landscape creates just the right ambience for enjoying a perfect Christmas. People decorate their houses with shimmering lights and colourful decorations. This Himalayan hill station dazzles during the night as the melange of shimmering light and colours present a dazzling view at the backdrop of the snowy landscape. Thanks to the December snowfall, you can enjoy a number of activities such as skiing and snowball fights during the Christmas week sojourn at Manali.

2. Bangalore

This tech-town gets a complete makeover during Christmas week. If you are celebrating Christmas week in India, a visit to Bangalore is a must. The roads are decorated with sparkling light and make you feel the spirit of Christmas in India. The age-old bakeries in Bangalore stock themselves with Christmas goodies. With brightly lit streets, homes decorated with wreaths, baubles and fairy lights, midnight masses and parties, Bangalore is at its glorious best during the Christmas week.

3. Delhi

The markets and malls in the capital city of India are flooded with lights during Christmas. The soft wafts of cakes fill its air and the strains of Christmas carols can be heard wherever you go in Delhi.  If you want to experience the traditional feeling of Christmas, visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Delhi. You can also get a taste of Indo-German Christmas celebrations by visiting the German Christmas Mela. Hundreds of brightly decorated stalls, live music, puddings and cakes, Christmas tree- this fair has it all. If you are visiting Delhi during Christmas, a visit to this fair is a must.

4. Darjeeling

Christmas means overindulgence and there is no other place than Darjeeling which can give you the best Yuletide flavour.  The weather is just perfect to soak yourself in celebrations. People in Darjeeling celebrate Christmas with much exuberance. If you are visiting Darjeeling during Christmas, then a visit to The Windamere is a must. This is one of the most authentic Colonial hotels in India that still retains the Raj-era flavour in its Christmas celebrations. The Windamere organises Christmas week (from December 20th- 31st) that witnesses performances by famous artisans from the West End Stage District in London. The celebrations here will give you the warmth of a house party, taking you back to the Colonial era. The Windamere is the only hotel where you can experience the Colonial era while enjoying world class performance by widely acclaimed international performers. If you are visiting Darjeeling during Christmas, then definitely stay at The Windamere.

4 Famous British Colonial Hotels

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Standing as the remnants of the bygone era, the colonial hotels across the globe trigger a sense of nostalgic luxury even in the 21st century. Their rich Victorian flavour has an old world charm that will transport you back to the era marked by opulence and grandeur. Here is a list of 4 famous and must visit British Colonial hotels across the world:

1. The Peninsula Hotel, Hong Kong

Nicknamed as The Pen, this hotel is a mute witness to the city’s rich colonial history. Opened in 1998, this hotel was built with the idea that it would be the finest hotels in the east of Suez. The hotel still follows the During the end of the Battle of Hong Kong in 1941, the British surrendered this territory in a meeting at the Room number 336 of it.

2. The Windamere, Darjeeling, India

Located on Observatory Hill in Darjeeling, The Windamere is a structure that stands as a witness of the Colonial era in India. Originally known as Ada Villa, this place was once used by the British planters as a boarding house.  was built in the mid-1800s. The Windamere still retains its original colonial flavour as each part of this place is carefully restored to preserve the old world charm. Take a walk down Memory Lane with a stay at The Windamere. If you are visiting Darjeeling, then book your stay with The Windamere, the only authentic British colonial hotel in Darjeeling.

3. Eastern and Oriental, Penang, Malaysia

Opened in 1885, the Eastern and Oriental Hotel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Being the first enterprise of the Sarkies Brothers, famous for founding a chain of luxury hotels across Southeast Asia, the hotel reflects the charming colonial past of Malaysia.

4. Pera Palace, Istanbul, Turkey

Located on a hill overlooking the magnificent Golden Horn, this place was opened in 1882. It was primarily built for passengers who travelled to Istanbul from Paris in the Oriental Express. Pera Palace is a place that has housed famous guests including Ernest Hemingway, Greta Garbo, Mata Hari, Agatha Christie, and so on.

7 Interesting Facts on Christmas Week

Do you know why Santa Claus comes down the chimney?  Or do you have any idea that where did the word Christmas come from? Or from where did the idea of hanging stockings come?  If no, then we have curated a list of interesting facts about Christmas for you. Read on to know more:

1. The word Christmas comes from the word Christes Maesse or Christ’s Mass in Old English. This word was first recorded in the year 1123. The term “X-mas” generates from Greece. The Greek symbol “X” represents Christ and thus, Christmas is also referred as X-mas.

2. The concept of Santa Claus is loosely based on the Bishop of Myra St. Nicholas who was born around the year 270. He gave anonymous gifts to impoverished kids, particularly during the night. After his death, he was canonised as the patron saint of the children.

3. An 1809 satire “A History of New York” written by Washington Irving first described Santa Claus as a pipe smoking bearded man who slides down the chimneys to distribute gifts. From there, the idea of Santa coming down the chimney developed further.

4. The tradition of hanging stockings during Christmas comes from the Old Dutch custom of leaving food in stockings for the donkeys of St. Nicholas. In return, St. Nicholas put small gifts in them.

5. Do you know that the song “Jingle Bells” was originally written for Thanksgiving Day? James Pierpont wrote this song in 1857 and was called “One horse open Sleigh.”

6. The Candy Cane is one of the most popular symbols of Christmas. It dates back to the year 1670 when it first appeared in Europe. It appeared in the USA during the 1800s. The shape resembles the hook that Jesus used to shepherd his lambs and the white and red stripes symbolise the purity and the sacrifice of Christ. The candy cane gained popularity in the mid-1990s.

7. Christmas is celebrated all around the world, including India. Christmas in India is celebrated with much vigour. The Windamere hotel, the only authentic colonial hotel in Darjeeling celebrates Christmas week from December 20th -31st. Famous entertainers from the West End Theatre District in London are invited to charm the audience with their performance. Christmas week at The Windamere is celebrated in the same way since 1939 and still maintains the warmth of a good old house party from the Raj days.

Enjoy the Era of Raj: Stay in These 4 Colonial Hotels

There are a number of colonial structures through which the Raj-era finds a resonance in the modern India. These buildings, mostly turned into hotels, take you back to the sepia-tinged reminiscence of the time when British ruled Cthis country. These structures still boast an historic connection with India and if you want to take a walk down Memory Lane, then stay in these colonial-era hotels:

1. The Claridges Nabha Residence, Mussoorie

Surrounded by the magnificent hills, this heritage hotel is located in the midst of a sprawling 13 acres silver oak and cedar forest. This was used as the summer residence of the Maharaja of Nabha. It was frequented by many British officials of the East India Company, Nawabs, and Maharajas. The rooms are aesthetically decorated to preserve the colonial feeling. It has 22 luxury rooms and is equipped with lavish comforts.

2. Vivenda dos Palhaços, Goa

The architecture of this place resembles traditional Portuguese-style Goan villa. Located in the Goan village of Majorca, the hotel is run by a British-family who preferred to stay back in India even after the Raj-era ended. The master bedroom is named “Konnagar” after the Calcutta-suburb (the then capital of the Raj) where the early generations of the family stayed when they first arrived in India. The rooms are decorated with exhibits that date back to the Raj-era and will add to your colonial recreation.

3. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

Located on Observatory hill, Darjeeling, Windamere Hotel is among the authentic colonial hotels in India. Built in the mid-1800s, this hotel was known as Ada Villa and was used as a residence by the British planters. The hotel carefully preserves its old-world charm and has restored, some years ago. If you want to experience the grandeur of the Colonial era, a staying at Windamere hotel is a must.

4. The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata

This is one of the oldest colonial hotels in India. The tranquillity of this colonial mansion is in stark contrast to the bustling city life. Dating back to the 1880s, the hotel features colonial-style decor that resonates the Raj-era. The hotel was once the residence of Colonel Grand which was later redeveloped into a hotel in 1911. During the World War II, this hotel was used by the British troops.

4 British Colonial Hotels in India that you Must Visit

India has transformed a lot since its independence. However, there are still a few places left where you can slip into the colonial past of the country and enjoy the grandeur and affable life enjoyed by the British during their hay days. If you want to take a detour in the past, then these British colonial hotels are a must visit for you:

1. Le Colonial, Fort Cochin

This British colonial hotel is considered the oldest hotel in Asia. Constructed in the year 1506, this was used by the Portuguese governor as his private residence.  Later, the Dutch governor, who conquered Fort Cochin, sold this place to the British in 1795. In 1947, the then British governor Lord Mountbatten and his wife Edwina Mountbatten visited this colonial structure. This colonial hotel boasts 7 rooms and suites that will take you back to the colonial era.

2. Windaremere Hotel, Darjeeling

Located in the picturesque setting of Darjeeling, Windamere Hotel is amongst the authentic British colonial hotels in India. Formerly known as “Ada Villa”, this hotel served as an English boarding house during the late 1880s. It was used by the British planters. Later, it was turned into a hotel. It still has the “Planter Suites” which are now known as the Royal Suites. If you want to get the real taste of Colonial India, a stay at Windamere hotel is a must.

3. West View, Ranikhet

Witness the opulence and elegance of the colonial India with a stay at the West View hotel. Set amidst a picturesque landscape surrounded by fir and pine forest, this heritage structure dates back to 1918 and was turned into a hotel in 1957. This hotel has 7 suites and 11 double rooms, all designed to give you a rich feel of the colonial charm.

4. Holm Farm Heritage, Ranikhet

This luxurious hotel is a perfect amalgamation of old British era charm and modern comforts. This structure was constructed by a British Army officer in 1869. The officer used this place as his residence for long. Today, Holm Farm Heritage carefully preserves its old-world charm. The structure is mostly restored to preserve its original design and feel. Facing the enchanting Himalayas, this quaint colonial structure is a perfect hideout in the lap of nature. This place has 6 suites which preserve their colonial decor and helps the visitors slip back into colonial times.

5 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in India

From singing Christmas carols to participating in Nativity plays, there are a number of ways to soak in the Yuletide spirit. Christmas comes with a feeling of happiness and cheer. And here are a few ways to enjoy and celebrate Christmas in India or in any other country:

Learn about Christmas traditions across the world

Each country has their unique way of celebrating Christmas. Learning about local customs and traditions related to Christmas can be a fun way to spend the Christmas week. Research about the Christmas customs and traditions from around the world. You can also do a country-specific search. Learn the Christmas cuisines and try them at home.

Decorate your Home

Decorate your home with Christmas figurines. Hang mistletoe at your entrance. If you don’t get original mistletoe, try the fake ones available in the market. Decorate the walls with lights and keep figurines of Santa and Rudolph on your table tops or shelves. You can even buy a Christmas tree and wrap it with colourful decoration.

Arrange  a Get-together

Christmas is a good time to enjoy with friends and family. Arrange a small gathering at your home and invite your friends and family members. Prepare hearty Christmas dinner and enjoy a meal together while sharing stories and planning your holidays.

Travel to Places

Christmas is incomplete without a trip to your favourite holiday destination. There are a lot of spectacular tourist destinations around the world but if you are in India, then do take a trip to Darjeeling and attend the Christmas week celebrations at The Windamere. This is one of the oldest and authentic Colonial hotels in India. They have been celebrating Christmas week since 1939 and invite famous entertainers from the famed West End Theatre District in London.  This year, they have invited renowned cabaret performer, writer, and actress Sarah –Louise Young to enthral the audience with her performance. Moreover, Christmas celebrations at The Windamere will remind you of “the good old house party” of days gone by. Christmas week will be celebrated from December 20th – 31st this year at The Windamere.

Watch Christmas Movies

Arrange a movie night at your house and enjoy Christmas movies such as How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Polar Express, and The Nightmare before Christmas or Miracle on the 34th Street.

4 Winter Destinations in India

Come winters and people find themselves packing their bags to set out to explore places. With a string of festivals lined up for the month of December, it’s the ideal month to plan a vacation to destinations unknown. If you too are looking forward to an extensive holiday in December, here is our list of top winter destinations in India:

1. Rajasthan

The land of the Rajas and Maharajas is among the most popular winter holiday destinations in India. Both foreign and Indian tourists visit this place during winters to experience its stunning beauty. Explore history in the awe-inspiring palaces and the splendid fortresses, witness the culture of Rajasthan, titillate your taste buds with the delectable Rajasthani cuisine and gaze at the sand dunes of the Thar desert- Rajasthan has everything that appeals to one’s senses.

2. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Winter vacations are incomplete without a trip to the gorgeous and misty Darjeeling.  During the Christmas week, every street of Darjeeling is flooded with the sweet aroma of cakes and cookies, fresh out of the oven. Tourists gather in large number to enjoy the distinct flavour of Christmas at Darjeeling. When in Darjeeling, don’t miss to attend the Christmas week celebrations at The Windamere, the most authentic colonial hotel in Darjeeling. Christmas week will be celebrated from December 20th – 31st this year. They invite famous entertainers from London’s famed West End Theatre District. This year, famous cabaret performer Sarah-Louise Young will spread magic and entertain the audience with her performance. If you are planning to book a hotel in Darjeeling, then The Windamere is the finest and the ultimate choice.

3. Wayanad, Kerala

What’s could be fascinating than enjoying winters at God’s own country? Winter holidays are the best time to dive into the mystic and serene beauty of Kerala. Wayanad is the best place to relax and enjoy a quiet time. You can enjoy wildlife spotting, trekking in Wayanad or simply relax on the backwaters while taking a ride on the houseboat.

4. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

A trip to Gujarat during winters is a lifetime opportunity for any traveller. Take a trip to the Rann of Kutch during winters, particularly during the night. The pristine white desert comes alive with lights and songs and other cultural programmes during the night. You can even see the migratory Flamingos that arrive at Gujarat during winters.