Showing posts with label Travel Blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel Blog. Show all posts
Travel | Countries where Indians can travel - All you need to know about Air Bubbles, Travel Restrictions and Relaxations
Most of us have been patiently waiting to get back to traveling (albeit, with strict precautions). However, looking at the current scenario, we can confirm that restrictions would be relaxed in an organised, phase-wise manner. The civil aviation ministry has entered into air bubbles with 14 countries, where Indian citizens can fly. Currently, talks are also on with several other countries, in order to facilitate two-way international travel. However, currently there are some countries where Indians are not allowed to fly, which means that no air bubble can be set up with these countries as of now.
So, what exactly does one mean by 'Air Bubbles'?: Air bubbles are temporary arrangements between two countries, which are aimed at re-starting commercial passenger service, at a time when regular international flights across the world are suspended. As we all know, International flights were suspended in March, as almost all countries had imposed a strict lockdown, in order to combat the spread of Covid-19. Repatriation flights resumed in May, but these flights are different from air bubble flights as repatriation flights can’t carry passengers both ways.
So, which countries can Indians not travel to (as of now) and why?: As several countries are opening international travel gradually, governments are in the process of identifying high-risk and safe countries.
- The European Union didn’t identify India as a safe country. However, India does have air bubble with Germany and France.
- South Africa: South Africa will resume international travels from October 1. However, it is likely that the government will not allow Indians to travel to the country.
- Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has barred all flights to and from India in its effort to keep a check on the Covid-19 situation in their own country.
- Hong Kong: Earlier this month, Hong Kong placed a bar on Air India flights, blaming Indian travellers for an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in Hong Kong. However, we hear the bar will be lifted soon. Also, just FYI - there are other airlines operating to Hong Kong.
So, which destinations can Indians fly to?
The 14 countries where Indian citizens can fly to include: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bhutan, Canada, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Maldives, Nigeria, Qatar, the UAE, the UK, and the US.
Current relaxations for domestic air travel: The government is gradually lifting certain restrictions such as relaxing the cap on number of flights from 45 per cent of pre-Covid number to 60 per cent. In addition, on-board meal services have been allowed on domestic sectors. From among the latest developments, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has allowed airlines to decide the baggage rules.
We highly urge all travellers to ensure they step out only in case of an emergency or urgent travel requirement. Ensure you take all necessary precautions and follow all strict hygiene measures.
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Love,
The Dancebee
A Cosy Getaway in the heart of Mumbai | Hotel Aureole
Imagine waking up on a breezy morning, with palm trees right outside your window, and a beautiful hammock, right next to your bed. You laze around with a cuppa in one hand, book in another and 'swing' away all the worries! And, what if I told you this wasn't a scene straight out of a sea facing, coast-side resort, but a beautiful little property, that's situated right in the heart of Mumbai?
Away from the noise, yet located right in the middle of all the action - Hotel Aureole is the perfect staycation or weekend getaway destination, for anyone who is looking for a quick break, or is planning to visit the city for a trip. In fact, it's a great choice for those who want a quick escape (without the additional worry of traveling to and fro), and relax with their family or loved ones, after a hectic week at work.
Tucked away in a quiet lane, right next to the super busy Western Express Highway and just 15 mins from the Mumbai International Airport; Hotel Aureole is a beautiful boutique property, which offers comfortable accommodation with excellent aesthetics, well designed rooms, scrumptious meals (Lume Restaurant deserves an exclusive post for it's unforgettable food and superb hospitality) - all this at an affordable price. What's better than a getaway that doesn't break your bank?
45 compact rooms with a marvellous view of the city skyline have our heart. Each floor has been designed as per a unique theme, which caught our eye. However, we highly recommend that you book a Suite on your next visit, which is not only affordable, but also come with some of the best amenities - including a spacious bathtub (placed right in the central area of your room), and a lovely hammock. We bet you will be spending most of your day swinging by the window, enjoying the lovely view! A getaway at Aureole is what you'd call - a relaxing time at home, away from home.
Accommodation at the property is divided into three types - Deluxe, Suite and Presidential Suite. The hotel also has a pool and lounge area at the rooftop, called 'The Patch of Sky'. We spent a few hours enjoying the city view, over some good food and conversations (more on that in our food exclusive post). For those looking at organising events or meetings, Aureole has two well equipped halls - a banquet and conference hall each, complete with modern amenities. Lume Café serves some of the best chef curated dishes, and can easily be referred to as one of the best kept 'foodie' secrets of Mumbai. With unique offerings, great cuisine choices and lip-smacking meals; the café has already made it's way to our top 10 list of restaurants in Mumbai. In fact, they also have special comedy nights, karaoke, and events happening during the weekend. Keep an eye out for updates on their social pages.
Dancebee Recommends - Hotel Aureole
Location: Andheri (East) | Mumbai
Pricing: Rs 3000 onwards
What we love? - Aesthetically designed, compact rooms with amazing amenities. Quirky additions like a hammock makes the experience totally worth it. The in-house café serves excellent food, which is a huge plus for this property. Great stay, with affordable pricing, and the stunning roof top area (with the perfect view of Mumbai) is like a cherry on this impeccable cake!
Dancebee Verdict - ☆☆☆☆1/2
Your perfect, cosy getaway is right here!
Looking for a quick getaway for Valentine's Weekend? Aureole has got some great promotions and offers for weekend packages. So, head over and get your bookings confirmed at the earliest.
PS: Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! Enjoy the day with loved ones. Much love.
PS: Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! Enjoy the day with loved ones. Much love.
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Love,
The Dancebee
The Historical Charm of Vijayawada | Dancebee Travels
With the long weekend coming up, you might have some exciting plans chalked out already. However, if you are someone who is still clueless, don’t worry. We have got this sorted for you. During the upcoming ‘bada weekend’, ditch the same old local spots or tried and tested touristy ‘things to do’ at a nearby hill station. Pack your bags and take off to Vijayawada. Why? Well, we give you more reasons than one to explore this beautiful city, packed with the perfect blend of history, culture and technology.
Accommodation: Basic, mid - range to luxury; there are several hotels in Vijayawada that one can choose from. Most of them are located close to popular tourist destinations, including the Kanaka Durga Temple, Museum, Kondapalli among others.
Travel: Vijayawada airport is located 20kms away from the main city. The airport has direct flights to Hyderabad and Vishakapatnam at regular intervals. You can take a connecting flight from your city (most of which stop at Hyderabad) and reach Vijayawada. Since there are no direct international flights, one can choose to get a flight ticket for Hyderabad and then, catch a connecting flight. Another option would be to travel by train, as the Vijaywada railway station is very well connected to all major stations in the region and one can easily book a ticket by looking at the train schedule on IRCTC website. State transport buses also connect Hyderabad and Vishakapatnam to Vijayawada.
Undavalli Caves
One of the most popular and important examples of monolithic rock cut architecture in India, the Undavalli caves were carved out on solid sandstone around the 4th - 5th century. The caves are said to be found in the 7th century and the main cave is a fine example of the early Gupta style of architecture. It is said that the caves were used as a resting place by Buddhist monks. Located at Tadepalle Mandal in Guntur district, this marvellous slice of history is a must visit for its exceptional and beautiful surroundings. A sculpture of Lord Vishnu, made out of a single granite block, is one of the biggest attractions at the caves.
Kanaka Durga Temple
A popular temple dedicated to the Goddess, the Kanaka Durga Temple is situated Indrakeeldari Hill (on the banks of river Krishna). The idol is said to be swayambhu, and appears in the astha-bhuja form (eight handed) with a powerful weapon in each hand to destroy the demon. The temple has major significance and has been mentioned in several sacred vedic texts, including the Kaalika purana. Navratri is celebrate with great pomp, with hundreds of devotees thronging the temple everyday. It is the best time to visit the temple, especially with all the festivities and special programmes. Kanaka Durga is decorated as Balatripura Sundari, Gayathri Annapoorna. Mahalakshmi, Saraswathi, Lalitha Tripura Sundari, Durga Devi, Mahissura Mardini and Raja Rajeswari Devi on each day of the Navratri festival. On Vijaya Dasami day, the deities are taken in a swan-shaped boat around the Krishna river, popularity known as “Theppotsavam”. In order to plan a darshan or seva, you can pre-book a pass on their official website.
Kondapalli Fort
Kondapalli is well known for its ancient fort and the locally-made toys. The fort was originally built as a business centre by Prolaya Vema Reddy of Kondaveedu during the 14th century. Over several centuries, the fort saw various invasions and wars. Later, it served as a training camp of the British Empire. Today, Kondapalli is among the most popular attractions in Vijayawada. While discovering the majestic architectural marvel of Kondapalli, don’t miss the popular sound and light show at the fort. Another attraction are the locally made toys. Don’t forget to pick up some of these Kondapalli toys, which are quite popular, thanks to it’s connect with ancient history. Poniki, a special type of light wood is used to make these toys, which generally resemble the characters of ancient myths and epics.
Gandhi Hill
Gandhi Hill is a special homage to Father of the Nation - Mahatma Gandhi. Located in Vijayawada (close to the Vijayawada railway station), Gandhi Hill is home to seven stupas. One of the stupas, known as High Gandhi Stupa, stands at a height of 500 feet and has inscriptions of Mahatma Gandhi's teachings, just like all the other stupas on the hill. You can also explore the Gandhi Memorial Library and planetarium. The sound and light show held at the hillock makes for a must watch. Gandhi Hill offers a breathtaking view of the city, especially post sunset. The memorial was inaugurated on October 1968 by the then president of India, Dr. Zakir Hussain.
Bapu Museum (Victoria Jubilee Museum)
This beautiful archaeological museum was established in the year 1887 in Vijayawada, and was created as part of the celebrations of the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria. It houses many artefacts and archaeological treasures that are very well preserved. The museum has exhibits of pre-historic tools, stone and copper plates, gold and silver coins, weaponry, textiles and pottery. The main attractions of the Museum are Mahishasura Mardhini (Goddess Durga) and Buddha images, especially a standing Buddha of white limestone that was excavated in Alluru (3rd–4th century). There are also some magnificent sculptures of Lord Shiva from the 4th and 5th century. Entry is free and the museum is open from Saturday to Thursday, 10.30 am - 5 pm.
So, are you ready to explore Vijayawada during the big weekend? Do let us know your thoughts / experience! Join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
The Wagah Border Vlog | Dancebee Travels
One of those posts where the video will speak louder than words. I got the golden opportunity to witness the Beating Retreat ceremony at the India - Pakistan border near Attari (Amritsar) earlier this year. The experience left my heart swelling with pride, with memories that I shall cherish for a lifetime! Salute to the Indian Army and Border Security Force.
Finally! Here's presenting The Wagah Border - Beating Retreat Ceremony Vlog.
An experience of a lifetime.
An experience of a lifetime.
Watch the full vlog here
Love,
The Dancebee
Things to do in Macao - The Cotai Strip
Visiting Macao anytime soon? The beautiful administrative region of China has got some excellent activities and entertainment options, that will keep you feeling excited and thrilled throughout the stay. During our recent visit, we explored some 'Must Visit' places in and around Cotai Strip, especially at the Sands Resorts, that has seven inter-connected properties, with a plethora of action packed, entertaining options to choose from. Here's a round up of our favourite activities and places to see in Macao, at the Cotai Strip.
The Eiffel Tower Experience
For someone who has always looked up to Paris as the ultimate dream destination, and loves to be in love with the Eiffel Tower, the experience of exploring South East Asia's very own Eiffel was surreal. The 1/2 scale tower is covered in 6000 individual bulbs and stands tall, right inside the Parisian Macao property. The tower is connected to the property with a love bridge, similar to the one in Paris. Visitors can buy love locks from the souvenir shop (located near the ticketing / entrance area of the tower) and lock them with a note or message at the bridge. The observation decks at Level 7 and 37 offer a breathtaking view of Macao, with gentle winds blowing in your hair and the sky looking dreamy as ever. And hey, you can even get to see a glimpse of the China border. The tower looks equally, or perhaps more beautiful at night. Don't miss the light show, where the Eiffel Tower dazzles and shimmers in style, turning visitors into paparazzi. If you can't get enough of the sheer beauty that is this tower, opt for the Eiffel Tower view suite (which I did). Trust me, the sheer joy of waking up to this gorgeous view is incomparable. If dining at the Eiffel is your thing, do visit La Chine on level 6 and enjoy the fine view, while you gorge on delicious Chinese food.
Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World
On our very first day in Macau, we were greeted by some of our favourite on-screen characters. Post a hearty (super late) lunch, we headed straight to Ice World - Asia’s largest indoor frozen wonderland, spanning over 1,600-square-metre, which has returned to The Venetian Macao’s Cotai Expo for the fifth year, with some new attractions and activities. Anyone traveling to Macao till July 9, 2017 can experience the coolest adventure in ice - titled Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars. It was mesmerising to see beautiful ice sculptures, made up of thousands of multi-coloured ice blocks, ice skilfully carved into amazingly detailed sculptures by a team of expert craftsmen from Harbin in northern China. This year, the added attractions have been divided into seven zones and include a host of colourful new DreamWorks Animation characters from films like Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, Shrek, How To Train Your Dragon, The Croods and Trolls. They have all been vibrantly brought to life with dazzling lights and stunning sound effects. Travellers and their loved ones can also enjoy new themed games, gorge on savoury snacks, choose from a wide range of merchandise and also hang out with the characters at meet-and-greets. The temperature inside is set at a chilly minus 8 degrees Celsius, so be prepared to enter with your long coats, gloves and closed shoes.
Monkey King Show
Monkey King – China Show is a large-scale fantasy stage play based on the Chinese legend of the famous monk – Xuan Zang from the Tang Dynasty (602 – 664), and is better known as “A Journey to the West.” After eight years in the making, the Beijing Huayan Group launched a stage show based on the legend at the Sands Cotai Theatre (Macao) in February earlier this year. The spectacular stage production breaks new ground in interpreting the classic tale, while appealing to a modern audience. We were mesmerised by the sheer beauty and scale of the dance, acrobatics, drama, martial arts and magic acts. The show also features the most advanced 3D effects, LED screen projections, video mapping and full surround sound, along with creative lighting effects, choreography (they’ve even got a sequence with characters performing on hover boards), music and stunning, colourful costumes.
Planet J
Our experience at the Planet J arena was quite interesting. It is the first-ever player-centric Live-Action-Role-Playing (LARP) Theme Park in the world. Interestingly, it is also the first theme park in Macao, covering an extensive area of 100,000 sq. ft., with 8 exquisite featured zones and over 200 whimsical game installations. FYI, there are no rides inside this theme park. Planet J is a legendary world, where each player takes up the role of a key character in their own fantasy adventure, and solves various quests involving intelligence and physical ability, in order to open treasure chests.
Venetian Gondola Rides
An iconic ride, straight from the European lagoon's islands. At the Venetian, one can experience a beautiful voyage through the indoor canals on an Italian gondola. 44 Gondolas with supremely talented, singing gondoliers entertain the guests, as they wind their way through the canals of Shoppes at Venetian. Sit back, relax and enjoy the lovely ride.
Shop at Sands Resorts
Complete with serenading gondoliers and colourful Venetian streetscapes, Shoppes at Venetian is a luxurious one-million-square-foot indoor mall with more than 350 stores featuring world-renowned brands and the best boutiques from New York, Paris, London and Milan. After exploring the shoppes at Venetian, visitors can also check out other malls that are a part of Sands Shoppes, connecting the malls at Four Seasons and Cotai Central, adding up to 650 more stores to choose from – the most in any one single location in all of Macao! So, all you shopaholics out there. We highly recommend that you don't miss the opportunity of enjoying the pleasure of shopping at Macao’s ultimate luxury duty-free shoppes. PS: They've just got a huge, swanky new Victoria's Secret store, that opened its doors to the public last fortnight.
Musicals
During our stay at the property, we got a chance to watch Bibap, a popular musical that was performed at the Parisian Theatre from April 7 to 23. Bibap tells the story of a cooking competition between two master chefs, Green Chef and Red Chef, at ‘BIBAP’ restaurant, alongside six other hyperactive performers also dressed as chefs, incorporating a cappella singing, beatbox sounds, b-boying (breakdancing) and acrobatics. Blending martial arts, singing, street dance and hip-hop, BIBAP was created to celebrate and promote Korean food culture worldwide. Currently, anyone of you planning a trip to Macao, anytime till September 3, will be welcomed by an even more ‘thrilling’ act. Thriller Live, a spectacular theatrical concert, has returned to The Parisian Macao due to popular demand. It pays the perfect tribute to world’s greatest artist ever - Michael Jackson.
How to get there? - From the Macao Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal and helicopter terminal, Sands Resorts is only a 10-minute journey. Macau International Airport and the Lotus Flower Bridge Border Checkpoint are just 5 minutes away. The Venetian Macao offers free shuttle bus transportation at the Macao Border Gate, the Macao Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, the Taipa Temporary Ferry Terminal and the Macao International Airport for travel to and from The Sands Resorts, Macao.
Love,
The Dancebee
Dancebee Travels | The Macao Food Trail
Most of you following us on our social media platforms already know that I had a great time in Macao last fortnight. From delightful activities to gorging on dainty dishes and exploring the stunning properties owned by Sands Resorts at the Cotai Strip; we did all this and so much more! This fortnight, I am super excited to share stories and exciting features from my Macao travel diaries. We kick off our #DancebeeInMacau series with some culinary feast.
During our stay, we got an opportunity to visit different restaurants, located within the connected properties (more information about the property to follow in upcoming posts). With a variety of restaurants dedicated to multiple cuisines from across the globe, there was something for everyone. We were spoilt for choice, as we explored some of the most popular restaurants, mainly at The Venetian and The Parisian Macao. There was a lot to like and love at each of these restaurants. While some stood out for its ambience, some others for its gorgeous decor. But, all of them had one thing in common - delicious food. Here's a round up of our favourite restaurants, that you must visit on your next trip to Macao.
Brasserie (The Parisian Macao)
After a long day of travel, we reached a few hours late, which resulted in a late lunch. However, the delicious French fare at the Brasserie ensured we leave the place with a smile on our face. This all day dining place is a favourite with those who enjoy signature French dishes. Brasserie's kitchen team is led by the experienced French chef Daniel Brolese, who ensures the dishes bring out authentic flavours. Featuring classic café favourites, straight from the streets of Paris, one must try some delectable crepes filled with cheese, shallot and cream sauce with french fries, soups with a basket full of fresh bread on the side or just some good ol' plate full of french fries (one of the best I have tried). Special mention of the amazing service at the restaurant, warm ambience and eye-catching decor.
Golden Peacock (The Venetian Macao)
You know that wonderful feeling when you find an Indian restaurant, miles away from home, serving lip smackingly good desi food? Say hello to Golden Peacock - a fine dining Indian cuisine restaurant at The Venetian Macao, that had has bowled over with it's supremely divine desi fare. The only Indian restaurant in Asia starred by Michelin for three consecutive years, Golden Peacock is known to have a comprehensive desi menu, with popular dishes from Northern and Southern India (Jain dishes are served too). Not only Indians, but you will also find other international tourists enjoying the scrumptious food at this restaurant. Our curated menu (separate for guests depending on Veg & Non-Veg preference) included Veg Starters, Tomato Shorba, mains including Egg Plant (Baingan) curry and more. We absolutely loved the dessert, which consisted of Mango Rasmalai and hot Gulab Jamuns. Right from the presentation to hospitality, choice of dishes on the menu to the wonderful ambience, Golden Peacock scores full points on our list and was definitely our favourite pick at the Sands Resorts, Macao.
La Chine (The Parisian Macao)
Always dreamt of enjoying a wonderful meal, while adoring the breathtaking view from Eiffel Tower? Well, The Parisian Macao fulfils your wish with La Chine - a Chinese cuisine restaurant situated on level 6 of the Eiffel Tower. Vibrant ambience, tastefully done up decor and the aroma of good authentic Chinese food; La Chine is an elegant fine dining restaurant in every way. What we love about this place is the fact that it creates a wonderful melange of two completely different cultures - Chinese and French, not only in the ambience, but also with its appetising fare. Where else would you find the delicious blend of red bean crepes with green tea ice cream? We loved our curated four course vegetarian fare. However, what won our heart has to be a summery fresh non-alcoholic drink called 'Eiffel Love' - packed with strawberries, coconut milk, mint and more (those following us on Instagram have seen a glimpse of this delicious drink). What's better than enjoying some Eiffel Love, while gazing at the stunning view from the famed tower?
Portofino (The Venetian Macao)
A slice of Italy in Macau. One of Venetian Macao's popular restaurants, Portofino serves delicious Italian dishes. Classic setting, beautiful ambience and stylish decor; Portofino is the kind of place where you would love to relax and chat with your friends over some really good food. If indoor dining is not your thing, you can also choose to dine at the patio, while enjoying the beautiful weather and overlooking the stunning pool. On Day 3, after an amazing tour of important tourist spots in the Macau region, we visited Portofino for lunch. And boy, it was so good! We loved every bit of the Caprese Salad (mozzarella with tomatoes, pesto and pine nuts) and vegetarian pasta specially curated for us. If you love classic Italian dishes and some good ambience, this place is a must visit!
From earlier today, delicious Italian lunch at Portofino @VenetianMacao Loved the presentation and hospitality 💕 #DancebeeInMacau pic.twitter.com/NsHZ15hqd3— Priya Adivarekar (@priyaadivarekar) April 12, 2017
Le Buffet (The Parisian Macao)
Everybody needs a solid brekkie to start their day. What better than a scrumptious buffet, with tons to breakfast options to choose from? Le Buffet at The Parisian Macao, located just 5 mins away from my room at the same property, offers all day buffet. The delightful breakfast spread includes salads, soups, fresh cut fruits, juice and a variety of different food items. Live counters at the buffet served eggs (prepared according to requirement), rice bowls and many more options, mostly non-vegetarian. We also spotted parathas, chole (reads as chickpea curry), egg fried rice, noodles and more. One could also take a pick from the wide variety of breads, croissants and cheese available at the restaurant. Some of our favourite picks during the stay (since being a vegetarian, I had limited options) were the crispy hash browns (my favourite), DIY salads, fresh breads and fruit juices.
We've got tons of updates coming up from the Dancebee Travel Diaries in Macau. Stay tuned!
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Things to do in Ratnagiri (Part I) | Travel
Ratnagiri - the land of Lord Parshurama. A beautiful district that houses scenic mountains and clean, virgin beaches. Situated on the Arabian coast, Ratnagiri is a part of the Konkan division; a place that has my heart (and soul). While most tourists and non-Maharashtrians think of Ratnagiri only when the Alphonso season arrives, there is more to this marvellous district than you could think of. Of late, several tourists have begun flocking to this district on long weekends, to soak in some sunshine and laze around on the virgin beaches (though, I secretly pray and hope they don't turn into another Calangute. Some tourists can certainly do with travel manners. Stop littering, please). As we celebrate World Tourism Day, I take this opportunity to talk about a district [and division of Mahahrashtra] that is close to my heart. A two part Feature series and detailed guide, that will help you plan your next trip to Ratnagiri, with must visit areas and more.
Beaches
Well known for it's long coastline and quiet, calm ambience, Ratnagiri beaches are a far cry from the commercial beaches that you often get to see. Take your pick from a variety of beaches including Bhatye, Ganpatipule, and the twin beaches - Aare, Ware.
Bhatye: Hardly 2kms away from the main city. The sight of white sand on one side and tall trees on the other is enough to let your stressful mind attain some peach.
Aare-Ware: For those who love scenic views, Aare-Ware is the place to be. Stunning view of the long coastline awaits, as you walk ahead. For photography lovers, drive along the Ganpatipule route and halt at the Aare-Ware junction on the top of the hill. Quench your thirst with a glass of home-made Kokam sarbat and click away. One end of the beach also houses some water sports facilities.
Mandvi: For commercial beach lovers, the Mandvi or Kala Samudra beach is a must visit, complete with food stalls, rides and one of a kind black sand beach.
Temples
Ratnagiri is home to some of the most popular and ancient temples. Spiritual tourists can dedicate an entire day to temple visits, and drive back feeling divine. Some of the most popular temples include the Mahakali temple at Adivare, Ganpati temple at Ganpatipule, the Pawas temple among others. Ratnagiri is also one of the rare districts in India that houses a temple dedicated to Lord Surya aka Sun.
Mahakali temple, Adivare: One of the oldest and most popular temples in Ratnagiri, the Mahakali temple [home to Goddess Kali] is situated approximately 35kms away from the main city, in a village called Adivare. Hundreds of devotees visit the temple daily, while the numbers hit over a lakh during the Navratri festival. The main temple area also houses two separate sanctum sanatoriums for Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Laxmi. Several celebrities are known visit the temple during their work trip to Ratnagiri.
Insider Tip: Take a halt at the tea centre situated next to the temple. They serve some lip smacking Vada Pav, Spicy Kanda Bhaji and cutting chai.
Swami Swaroopanand Temple, Pawas: A beautiful temple nestled in the quiet lanes of a village named Pawas, the Swami Swarupanand Temple is approximately 20kms away from Ratnagiri. Located inside a well maintained complex, the temple houses Swami's samadhi, as well as a beautiful idol of Lord Vitthal and Rakhumai. Several copies of the popular holy text - Gnayeshwari, as kept inside the temple. It is said, that you can pick up a copy and randomly open any page. The verses on that particular page shall have the perfect answer to a misery, doubt or problem faced by you. I have personally done this on several occasions, and trust me, it has worked. This is no superstition, but a matter of pure faith. Also, Dnayeshwari in general is a wonderful book. The trust serves delicious Khichdi as part of their Mahaprasad during lunch hours, everyday.
Insider Tip: Head to Vijay's opposite the temple complex, and stock up on your favourite Mango based food products.
Ganpatipule: A destination that is slowly becoming a favourite among Maharashtra and Gujarat based tourists, Ganpatipule is a small village located on the Konkan coastline. The village is well known for it's popular, wish fulfilling Ganesha temple, which is located on a beach which goes by the same name. This temple faces the Arabian sea, and a coastline, which is breathtakingly beautiful. The Swayambhu (self originated) idol placed inside the sanctum sanatorium is 400 years old. Instead of the usual temple pradiksahana, devotees perform a pradikshana via a special marg around the hill behind this temple. This distance of this marg is approximately one kilometre and the surroundings are absolutely beautiful. After a peaceful darshan at the temple, you can relax by the beach side. Sample some of the local Kanda Bhaji, Thalipeeth, or savour the never-ending fresh Coconut Water. With the popularity, the Ganpatipule beach has fast become a commercial area (at least, from what I have been noticing since the last decade). A sincere request to everyone though - please don't litter or leave the temple & beach premises dirty. Seeing the beach in a mess is such an eyesore!
Insider Tip: If you are around during Lunch time, don't leave without savouring the Bhog prasad (post afternoon Aarti, till 2 pm). The khichdi and fresh mango pickle served here is to die for!
That's it for this part of the feature! In the next part, we shall explore some exciting sight seeing destinations and also fill you in with complete details on stay, travel and the areas to sample local cuisines.
Images Credit [except Swami Swaroopanand temple]: From the author's personal collection
Love,
The Dancebee
Beaches
Well known for it's long coastline and quiet, calm ambience, Ratnagiri beaches are a far cry from the commercial beaches that you often get to see. Take your pick from a variety of beaches including Bhatye, Ganpatipule, and the twin beaches - Aare, Ware.
Bhatye: Hardly 2kms away from the main city. The sight of white sand on one side and tall trees on the other is enough to let your stressful mind attain some peach.
 |
| Image captured outside Bhatye Beach using a regular point and shoot camera, while traveling in a car at 40kmph |
Mandvi: For commercial beach lovers, the Mandvi or Kala Samudra beach is a must visit, complete with food stalls, rides and one of a kind black sand beach.
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| Shot taken from Mandvi beach, moments before the fishermen wind up for the day |
Temples
Ratnagiri is home to some of the most popular and ancient temples. Spiritual tourists can dedicate an entire day to temple visits, and drive back feeling divine. Some of the most popular temples include the Mahakali temple at Adivare, Ganpati temple at Ganpatipule, the Pawas temple among others. Ratnagiri is also one of the rare districts in India that houses a temple dedicated to Lord Surya aka Sun.
Mahakali temple, Adivare: One of the oldest and most popular temples in Ratnagiri, the Mahakali temple [home to Goddess Kali] is situated approximately 35kms away from the main city, in a village called Adivare. Hundreds of devotees visit the temple daily, while the numbers hit over a lakh during the Navratri festival. The main temple area also houses two separate sanctum sanatoriums for Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Laxmi. Several celebrities are known visit the temple during their work trip to Ratnagiri.
Insider Tip: Take a halt at the tea centre situated next to the temple. They serve some lip smacking Vada Pav, Spicy Kanda Bhaji and cutting chai.
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| Captured during the temple renovation process, approximately 2 years ago |
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| While major parts of the temple were renovated, these ancient murals on the ceiling remain intact and have been given a colour makeover. These murals depict Hindu mythological stories |
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| The newly renovated temple area, including a dedicated space for Navratri Havan |
Kanikaditya Mandir, Kasheli: Situated in the Rajapur taluka of Ratnagiri district, in a small village named Kasheli; Kanikaditya temple is one of the very few temples in India that is dedicated to Lord Surya / Sun. Kasheli is approximately a 30km drive from Ratnagiri city. Like several temples in India, this too has an interesting story behind it and the locals are always eager to share mythological stories, facts and trivia with tourists.
Swami Swaroopanand Temple, Pawas: A beautiful temple nestled in the quiet lanes of a village named Pawas, the Swami Swarupanand Temple is approximately 20kms away from Ratnagiri. Located inside a well maintained complex, the temple houses Swami's samadhi, as well as a beautiful idol of Lord Vitthal and Rakhumai. Several copies of the popular holy text - Gnayeshwari, as kept inside the temple. It is said, that you can pick up a copy and randomly open any page. The verses on that particular page shall have the perfect answer to a misery, doubt or problem faced by you. I have personally done this on several occasions, and trust me, it has worked. This is no superstition, but a matter of pure faith. Also, Dnayeshwari in general is a wonderful book. The trust serves delicious Khichdi as part of their Mahaprasad during lunch hours, everyday.
Insider Tip: Head to Vijay's opposite the temple complex, and stock up on your favourite Mango based food products.
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| Image Credit: Ratnagiri Info |
Insider Tip: If you are around during Lunch time, don't leave without savouring the Bhog prasad (post afternoon Aarti, till 2 pm). The khichdi and fresh mango pickle served here is to die for!
That's it for this part of the feature! In the next part, we shall explore some exciting sight seeing destinations and also fill you in with complete details on stay, travel and the areas to sample local cuisines.
Images Credit [except Swami Swaroopanand temple]: From the author's personal collection
Love,
The Dancebee
