Mahindra Homestays » Featured

The India Coffee House; How India likes its coffee

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:00:54 +0000

The quick in and out espresso bar of Europe has yet to make its way to India, where people still like to spend hours over a cup of coffee. Chains of coffee shops have mushroomed all over the country. In fact, an urban neighbourhood is likely to have more than a dozen of such swanky outlets. The oldest name in the business, however, is a far cry from the modern-day cappuccino-selling shops.

The India Coffee House chain, founded more than 70 years ago, has a presence in all major cities and many small towns. There are close to 400 such outlets, with Kerala notching up the highest number with more than 50. Orderlies with cummerbunds and pointed turbans can be found in many of the Coffee House branches. The coffee menu is usually restricted to hot coffee (black or with milk), cold coffee (without ice-cream), tea, milk and a handful of sherbets and milk shakes. The accompaniments are what contribute to the high footfall, despite the fact that some of the outlets are in need of a makeover. Plates of mutton samosas, biryani, cutlets, omelettes, paranthas, dosas and pakoras fly off the counter as quickly as the coffee served in modest white cups and saucers.

The most legendary India Coffee House branch is the one opposite Presidency College in Kolkata. This is where film-makers, politicians, poets, writers and statesmen spend hours over coffee, making it the hotbed of intellectualism. They say that many a revolution was born, many a script written, many a deal struck and many a love affair blossomed over a cup at the ‘Coffee House on College Street’.

Breakfast in the south of India,usually idlis, upma, idiappam and suchlike, is incomplete without the signature filter coffee, served in stainless tumblers. Be it the legendary MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room) chain in Bangalore or the popular Murugan’s Idli Shop in Chennai’s T. Nagar, the filter coffee served is a mix of dark roasted coffee beans and chicory. Filter coffee mixes as well as the coffee maker, a set of two tumblers,are good souvenirs from a holiday in the south.

The moment a train enters the south, you will see vendors selling tea are far outnumbered from those with coffee. The coffee available on railway platforms is usually served in a small paper cup. The vendor almost always sprinkles coffee powder on the top, giving you as authentic a taste you can ask for Rs. 10 or even less. In some cases, you will find a vendor selling ‘chaffee’ a mix of coffee and tea.

WHILE ON THE MOVE….
Here’s a pick of good places to go for coffee, conversation and more:

India Coffee House on Shimla’s Mall. Also try the mutton dosa.
Devraj Coffee Corner, the only German bakery in Rishikesh. Have coffee with the brown bread and yak cheese.
Brown Bread Bakery in Varanasi, which is a great place to catch up with fellow travellers.
Matteo, Bangalore’s hottest new cafe.
Auroville Bakery in Pondicherry, which is also much known for its cakes and croissants.
Lila Cafe on Baga beach in Goa, also famous for the pumpernickel bread and apple pie.

COFFEE CARDAMOM KULFI RECIPE
Try this delicious coffee based recipe for an alternative but very popular way to get your coffee fix!

Ingredients:
Servings: 5

8 cups milk
3 tbsp sugar
12 cardamom pods
6 tbsp brewed espresso

Method
Heat the milk in a heavy-bottomed pan. When it reached boiling point, reduce to low heat and stir occasionally for 20 minutes.

Crush the cardamom and add to the milk. Simmer for 60 minutes (or untill the time the milk reduces to two cups). Pour the milk into a bowl, add espresso and sugar, and stir. Leave it to cool down.

Churn the mixture in an ice-cream maker until thick. Put the mixture into five kulfi moulds and refrigerate.

Add slivered almonds and a few strands of saffron before serving.

Places in Kottayam

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 20:00:53 +0000

An important Kerala centre for spices and rubber, Kottayam lies near the tourist hub, Alleppey, in the southern part of the state. The famous Keralan backwaters are accessible as the town is based at the basin of Meenachil River and the Vembanad Lake.

The weather here is cooler in comparison to Alleppey and the evergreen lush topography a great respite. Kottayam is also known for famous home-bred bakeries. With a large Syrian Christian community residing here, non vegetarian delicacies are in plenty. Look out for local jaunts to try some delicious beef, pork and sea food.

Kottayam is a fairly small town, spread over about 55 sq kms and is not traditionally a tourist hub, but there are some interesting places in Kottayam where you can choose to base yourself for a few days or visit during your trip.

1. Vagamon
This is a hill station close to Kottayam, situated 1100 metres above sea level. Vagamon is not that well known on the tourist circuit so one enjoy the lush ravines, tree lined hills and an extensive carpet of bright green in a tranquil environment. The drive itself from Kottayam to Vagamon is magnificent with pine trees amidst solid rock. Thangal Para, the Indo-Swiss Project and Kurisumala Ashram are the highlights of this place.

2. Pallam
Pallam is a great place to see some of the different art forms of Kerala in their natural settings rather than in air conditioned auditoriums, offering a more authentic experience. The Anjaneya Kalari Marma Chikilsalayam is based in the Pallom region of Kottayam and gives the visitors a guided walk through the popular Kalaripayatu performance. There are limited entries and no fees, which makes this a great place to get acquainted with the ancient art. The establishment is also known for its Ayurvedic treatments. Pallom is also known for the first power house in Cochin and Munroe Lighthouse. It is associated with famous names like Haley Mathew (a great patron of the famous snake boats).

3. Pallikathodu
Kerala is known for its natural beauty in backwaters, lush forests and plantations. Amongst these, there are some spectacular waterfalls in the Kottayam region to visit. Just 18 kms from Kottayam, Pallikathodu is famous for the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, best seen after the rainfall in August. Crashing down from the mountains from a height of 100 ft this is a fantastic spot for a relaxing picnic.

4. Ettumanoor
Just 15 km away, Ettumanoor is famous for an old Shiva shrine. It is believed to be thousands of years old and houses ancient paintings and seven statues of half golden elephants. This is largely a historical destination with its lineage attributed to the times of Mahabharata, as the Pandavas are said to have established a temple here.

5. Poonjar Palace
Poonjar Palace has a royal connection to the history of Kottayam. Prince G.V Raja’s home is now a museum where antiques, rock-cut lamps, sculptures and other artefacts are displayed for public viewing. The palace stands as a testimony to an opulent time for the Prince, reflected in the richly carved furniture, chandeliers, jewel boxed, paintings and sculptures. Not far from the palace, is an extraordinary replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple, with intricate sculptures depicting stories from the Puranas. Poonjar Palace makes for a good off beat trip from Kottayam town.

6. Kumarakom
The pretty backwater village of Kumarakom is located just 16 kilometres from Kottayam. An ideal place for setting off on a backwater cruise, the village is set to the backdrop of Vembanad Lake where numerous traditional houseboats can be found plying the waterways.

Spices in Indian food

Mahindra Homestays — Sun, 18 Nov 2012 20:00:52 +0000

Spices in an Indian kitchen may very well be referred to as the heart of Indian cuisine. Each spice has its own distinct taste and flavour. However, when combined in the preparation of a dish they come together to create a unique flavour.

We take a look at the use of spices in Indian food.

Most Popular spices

Turmeric is usually used in powder form and adds a strong yellow colour to the food. Although it is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, it is still recommended to use sparingly, as even a little of it goes a long way!

Cumin Seeds are used in both forms; whole as well as powder. It has a distinct aroma and is used quite extensively.

Black pepper is the fruit of the black pepper plant and is used whole as well as split. Rich in a number of vitamins, it is also a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Pepper is indigenous to India.

Mustard and Coriander Seeds are both used to garnish dishes and are extremely popular in an Indian kitchen.

Red Chilli is a very important spice and is mainly used in the dry form. When grounded into a fine powder and sautéed in oil, it adds a fiery element to a dish. The degree of hotness depends on which part of India the spice originates. The Kashmiri red chilli is the most popular one that used in Indian cuisine followed by the Andhra red chillies.

Cardamom is a sweet spice having a very distinct aroma and is used in many North Indian as well as South Indian desserts.

Saffron is one of the most expensive spices. It is produced in very few regions of the world, Kashmir in India being one of them. Not only is saffron aromatic and delicious but it also adds a beautiful rich colour to the food.

Nutmeg and Mace are mainly used in desserts. Keeping in mind how strong and potent they are, it is strongly recommended to use them both sparingly!

Cloves are dried up flower buds and are a strong and heady spice. It is mainly used in North Indian dishes such as biryani and curry. They are barely used in South Indian delicacies.

Cinnamon is actually the dried bark of a tree. It is added to oil as its getting heated, in this manner the oil gets flavoured and the food gets cooked in this fragrant oil.

Staying on a spice plantation

Many spice plantations open their doors to guests, giving you the opportunity to explore a working plantation and see and taste the fresh spices. Find out more about plantation tours.

Here are some great choices for enjoying the lush green surrounds of an Indian spice plantation.

Pepper County in Thekkady is a modern and immaculate house with a sense of rural seclusion. The house looks out onto spectacular views across hills and plantations, consisting mainly of pepper and cardamom with many other spices and fruits, such as chillies, cashews, cinnamon and jackfruit. The hosts gladly show the guests around and inform them about the various kinds of plantations.
Ambady Estate in Munnar is of about 75 acres in size and is right behind the smoking house that is still used to dry the cardamom from the plantations. Activities here include learning the traditional Kerala style of cooking.
Glenora Homestays in Wayanad is located amidst a massive 90 acre plantation of coffee and betel nut with a whole variety of spices and fruit trees growing on the property. The hosts have been taking care of the plantations for over 40 years now and will take you on a plantation walk to show you and let you taste numerous fresh spices.

Popular Places in Alleppey, Kerala

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 20:00:32 +0000

Alleppey defines the quintessential Kerala experience in several ways. The placid backwaters which flow into narrow canals are the lifeblood of the small town which lies 60 kms south of Cochin. Life revolves around the water and most visitors will be here to explore the backwaters by boat, from the large elegant houseboats to small fishing canoes.

Also known as Alappuzha, the town has a rich history, a burgeoning home-stay culture for travellers and also serves as the venue for some of the most exciting festivals of the state.

Here are our five favourite places in Alleppey to visit.

1. Punnamada Jetty

You don’t need to take an entire house-boat to get the experience of the backwaters. Walk to the Punnamada Jetty point and watch the elaborate and well equipped house-boats dock on the banks. You can walk into some of them and have a look around. The jetty point is also a good spot to sight some rowers from a local sports school in the middle of the lake. Children from the school often whiz past the banks in canoes or hold swimming practices close by.

2. Alappuzha Beach

Though Alleppey is better known for its network of canals, it has a great stretch of sandy beach, often overlooked by visitors. There is 140 years old wharf which extends into the sea. Take some time to explore the sandy, palm-fringed shore line lapped by the Arabian Sea. Marari beach just before the town is a hot-spot for resort oriented holiday.

3. Kuttanad

Further towards the South, the Kuttanad region unfolds just after Alleppey. A fascinating area, this is well below the sea level and is known for its lush paddy fields. The topography is different from the backwaters and makes for an idyllic day out. You can see the locals at work in the fields as you cross vast patches of cultivation.

4. Vembanad Lake

Alleppey is sandwiched between Vembanad lake and the Arabian sea. The longest lake in India, Vembanad spans several districts in Kerala. The lake is stunning, covered in water hyacinth and home to a vast variety of bird life. Houseboats travel along the lake giving visitors the opportunity to see the many fishing villages clustered along its shores.

5. Pathiramanal

A small island on the backwaters, Pathiramanal is a bird watchers paradise as it is home to over 90 local species of birds and 50 migratory birds. About 13 km from Alleppey it can be reached in about 30 minutes by speed boat from the town.

Things to do in Matiana

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 20:00:52 +0000

Apple orchards stretch over the length and breadth of this small town on NH 22, between Shimla and Narkhanda in Himachal Pradesh. Perpetually pleasant weather, a strong connection with the Goddess Durga and businesses rooted in apple farms, makes this a verdant and relaxed place to visit.

A small town feel and easy pace of life makes Matiana an ideal base for travellers who wish to relax and explore the region away from the tourist crowds. Matiana has a number of things to offer for those who like to walk around and soak in the atmosphere.

Here are our favourite things to do in Matiana.

1. Birdwatching

This small town of Himachal gives a vast opportunity for birding enthusiasts to see plenty of different species. The varieties are distinctly different from that of other parts of India. Birds like Drongo, fly catcher, bar tailed tree creeper, black bulbul and Grosbeak can be spotted here.

2. Walking Trails

The hills are a perfect place to explore and there are plenty of local trails to follow. Small village settlements, old-towering trees and local life are found along some of the most beautiful trails here. A good way to see the destination and get acquainted to the local culture, this is highly recommended.

3. Explore the Apple Farms

You can’t escape the importance of the apple farms in the region. Most people here have small or big farms and the conversations invariable leads to the season’s production and other issues. Visit an apple orchard and enjoy the freshness of apples right off the tree. While most of the harvest is sent to local or larger distributors, many people have diversified into small units of chutneys (Indian condiment) and juices. Perfect souvenirs to take home!

4. Hatu Peak

A little over 15 kms from Matiana, the Hatu peak towers over the Narkhanda town. It takes about an hour from the town to drive up to this serene spot with oak stands and bright green pastures in the middle. From here, you can get a good look at the Himalayas on a clear day. Try not to visit on a weekend – the number of visiting cars and bikes often end up in a jam.

5. Local Temples

Matiana has always been associated with its devotion to the Goddess Durga. Apart from her, the destination is also sprinkled with other smaller temples. You will find temples tucked away in nooks and crannies, below trees, by the road and some elaborate ones. The religious zeal in the people is commendable here.

Where to stay
Constructed on the edge of a hill facing a panoramic valley with far-off mountains views is Krish Rauni Resort. Situated in the upper reaches of Himachal Pradesh, this homestay in Matiana is at a height of about 8,000 feet from the sea level. The orchard around the house has benches painted in bright red, yellow and green where you can relax with a book, or spend time on the huge terrace which gives a wide view of the valley around.

Tea in the clouds; things to do in Darjeeling

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 20:00:46 +0000

Kanchendzonga, clouds, fragrant cups of tea and sumptuous food. Head to Darjeeling and live in the clouds for a while, literally.

This quaint hill station is located about 2150m above sea level and clouds tend to come down often enveloping you. The British loved the misty, mild-to-chilly climate of Darjeeling. So much so that they annexed it from Nepal and made it into their own special summer retreat to escape the heat of the plains. Among other things, they set up the tea plantations that today are responsible for the world-famous Darjeeling tea.

Here’s a list of things to do in Darjeeling:

1. Take a tea tour
Take a tea estate tour or stay on a plantation. On a tea tour, you will get to see what goes into making that perfect cuppa – you will go tea plucking with workers, get a round of the factory where leaves are processed and indulge in tea tasting.

The delicate flavour of Darjeeling tea is dependent on the climate and environment and the flavour and aroma of tea differs from hillside to hillside. Recommended is a tour of the Makaibari estate. Founded in the late 1850s, its tea fetches some of the highest prices in the world.

2. Visit a monastery
You can also go on a monastery tour. Darjeeling has several beautiful monasteries and temples. The Ghum Monastery (situated 8 km from Darjeeling in the town of Ghum) follows the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. It has a 15ft statue of Maitreya Buddha.

The Bhutia Busty monastery is in Darjeeling town, near Chowrasta. It belongs to the Red Sect of Buddhist Lamas and is credited with the origin of the name of the town, Darjeeling. The monastery used to be known as Dorje Ling and was originally located on Observatory Hill before the Nepalese destroyed it in 1815. It was later rebuilt on the present site. A must-see at the monasteries are the gorgeous wall murals made with colours derived from powdered stones.

3. Take a walk around town
Take some time to go for long walks around town. Get to know Darjeeling up close – take a guided tour with the folks at Darjeeling Heritage Walks. They’ll show you a Darjeeling that very few people get to see. You may find yourself taking part in prayer ceremonies at a Tibetan monastery, sipping hot cups of butter tea, meeting legendary sherpas, sampling the best local foods, visiting lesser-known treasures like Crookety, Russian artist Nicholas Roerich’s house in nearby Kalimpong, or being regaled with real-life stories from Darjeeling about Afghan princes and spies in monks’ clothing that will put a Bond thriller to shame.

4. View mountain peaks
Play a game of hide ‘n seek with the Kanchendzonga, the third-highest peak in the world. It is right there behind the mist, its snow-capped proximity like an invisible presence.

Sometimes it can remain resolutely, tantalisingly hidden. And then, sometimes you get lucky as the clouds lift like a theatre curtain. “Sometimes a tourist has waited 22 days and then been obliged to go away without a sight of it,” wrote Mark Twain from Darjeeling in 1896.

Tiger Hill is best known for the view of the dazzling sunrise over Kanchenjunga. On a clear day you can even see Mt Everest from here.

5. Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Take a ride on the Lilliputian Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), a 60 cm narrow-gauge railway that was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999 becoming only the second railway in the world to have this honour. It goes up to a height of 2,286 metres.

Mark Twain described his trip on the railway in 1896 as “the most enjoyable day I have spent on the earth”. Among much-repeated stories about the DHR, one goes like this: A telegram sent from the line to headquarters in Calcutta during Mark Twain’s time allegedly said: “Tiger eating station master on front porch. Telegraph instructions.” Check out the website of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Society which has more than 800 members in 24 countries.

6. Go book shopping
Browse and pick up a book on Darjeeling at Oxford Book & Stationery in Chowrasta. This specialises in books on Darjeeling, Tibet, Bhutan, Sikkim, Nepal and the Himalayas.

7. Buy tea, tea sets and Himalayan honey
Sit down with your book and a cup of Darjeeling tea and watch the sunset at Nathmulls Lounge in Chowrasta. They are the oldest and the largest tea merchants here specializing in Darjeeling tea and source over 50 varieties of tea both from tea auction as well as directly from tea estates. They also stock an amazing variety of tea pots from miniature enamelled ones to intricately carved silver tea sets.

Pick up some excellent Himalayan Honey at the lovely little shop Life & Leaf on Chowrasta. They work with small farmers and local artisans and sell a variety of products. They stock tea sourced directly from farmers as opposed to the other shops that sell tea by the big companies. The advantage? Part of the profits is channelled back to farmers. They also stock bamboo products, earthenware, woven stoles and embroidered tea cosies and mats.

Hang out at the uber cool Gatty’s Café in the evenings and listen to some of the best live music India has to offer. Darjeeling is known for its music and local talent.

Interesting facts about Darjeeling

Darjeeling derives its name from Tibetan words ‘dorjé’ (thunderbolt) and ‘ling’ (place), and translates to Land of the Thunderbolt.
Nestled in the Mahabharat Range (or Lesser Himalayas) at an elevation of 6,710 ft, the town was taken from Nepal by the British in the mid-19th century and, because of its temperate climate, used as a sanatorium to escape the heat of the plains.
The man credited with building Darjeeling is Arthur Campbell, a surgeon with the East India Company.
The British gradually set up tea plantations and developed distinctive hybrids of black tea, created new fermenting techniques. Today Darjeeling tea is known as the champagne of teas.
Writer Mark Twain was 61 years of age when he came here in February, 1896. And became a huge fan. Here’s what he said of the town: “The one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once even by a glimpse would not give that glimpse for the shows of the rest of the world combined”.

No related posts.

Things to do in Amritsar

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 20:00:43 +0000

The city of Amritsar in the state of Punjab in Northern India has lots to offer visitors. People flock to see the glittering Golden Temple but also discover a city full of interesting sights and plenty of world-class restaurants. Here are some things to do in Amritsar to make the most of this vibrant destination.

1. The Golden Temple

The Harmandir Sahib commonly known as the Golden Temple is a prominent Sikh gurdwara. Construction of the Golden Temple began in 1574 on land donated by the Mughal emperor Akbar. The building project was overseen by the fourth and fifth Sikh Gurus.

The temple was completed in 1601, but restoration and embellishment continued over the years. The Golden Temple has unique architecture. It has been deliberately built at a level lower than that of the neighbouring land in order to teach the lesson of equality and humility. The shrine can be accessed from all four directions signifying that people belonging to every walk of life are equally welcome.

The only restrictions are that visitors must not drink alcohol, eat meat or smoke in the shrine. Visitors are asked to leave their footwear at a facility near the entrance, cover their head and wash their feet by wading through the shallow pool before entering. It is advised to come here keeping a few hours spare in order to soak in the magic of this divine temple.

2. Jalianwala Bagh

A historical monument telling the sad story of mass killing during India’s freedom struggle is another must visit in Amritsar. The site is famous for the memorial of the martyrs of the 1919 carnage carried out by British General Dyer. He was convinced that a major insurrection was going on and hence banned all meetings. On being informed that about 15,000 people had gathered at Jalianwala Bagh, he along with 50 riflemen opened fire and kept firing till all ammunition was exhausted. Although, Dyer was removed from duty and forced to retire, this tragic incident left a deep scar on the people and was a catalyst in quickening the struggle for Freedom. The place also has a park. The Martyr’s Gallery is open to all from 10 am to 4 pm during winters and from 9 am to 5 pm in summers.

3. Wagah Border

Wagah, on the Indo-Pakistan border, is 28 kms from Amritsar. Numerous visitors come to see the ceremonious change of guards and the flag hoisting and lowering activities done skillfully and with precision by the border security forces of both the countries. It is interesting to note that border security forces of both India and Pakistan undergo the elaborate ceremony jointly! The ceremony is impressive and one of its kind in India, and is a sure shot recipe to evoke feelings of patriotism. The flag down ceremony starts at 4:30pm and goes on till 5:00pm.

4. Khair-ud-Din Masjid
Renowned for its architectural beauty, Jama Masjid Khairuddin is one of the most admired religious center of Amritsar. Famous among the tourists as well as the locals, this beautiful mosque was built by Muhammad Khairuddin in 1876. This holy place is where Tootie-e-Hind, Shah Attaullah Bukhari raised his voice against the British rule. This grand edifice of the freedom struggle displays one of a kind architectural elegance. Do note that being located in the midst of a busy market, this mosque is quite crowded.

5. Durgiana Mandir

Located in close proximity to the Golden temple is the Durgiana Mandir which was built during the 16th century. Although dedicated to Goddess Durga it also houses other deities such as Lakshmi and Narayana. Located in the middle of a pristine lake, it does not follow the typical temple architecture of ancient times. A renowned depository of Hindu scriptures, this temple displays an unusual grandeur and elegance of its own.

6. Akal Takht

The Akal Takht, next to the Golden Temple, is the seat of the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, the religious governing body of the Sikhs. The principal sacred text of Sikhism, Adi Granth is housed in the ground floor of the Akal Takht and is taken out in procession every morning to be placed at the Harmandir Sahib. Again at night, it is brought back to the Akal Takht. It also houses the 68 holy shrines of the Hindus and according to the teachings of Guru Arjan Dev. It was enough for the devout to visit these shrines and not visit all the original Hindu shrines which are spread all over the country so come visit the Akal takht if you’re seeking a short cut to your journey of spirituality!

7. Shopping
Shopping in Amritsar can be very exciting and you will be spoilt with the amount of choice that is available. Famous for its traditional Phulkari Embroidery, Amritsar can be quite a haven for shoppers. Also available are the beautiful Patiala Salwars worn by the women of this region. To team with them get the Punjabi Jutis, the traditional shoes of the people of this region. Considering that Amritsar does got quite chilly during the winters, you can also buy here some fantastic woollen garments, carpets and blankets woven by the people of Punjab.

The old city bazaars are the best places to go for shopping the traditional items. You can try out Guru Bazaar, Mochi Bazaar and Shastri Market to get hold of some elegant Patialas. The market places are abuzz with activity right from 11:00 in morning till 9:00 in the evening.

8. Food

Last but not the least, no write up of Amritsar could ever be complete without mention of food. Known for their fish fry, lassi, paranthas, puri channa, Kulfi, Sarson ka saag and makki ki roti you are going to need days if not weeks to sample all of it!

Kesar da dhaba in the heart of old city whips up some delicious but also quite heavy food. Surjeet food plaza located in a capacious basement on Lawrence Road is best known for its yellow daal, paneer dishes, and the tandoori fish. KulchaLand located at the District Shopping Complex serves up delicious Amritsari kulchas from morning till evening 4 p.m. The pickles, jams and jellies of Amritsar, made by the rural women are great to carry back home.

Related articles and links of interest
Amrisar destination guide
Amritsar homestay collection

India Winter Sun Destinations

Mahindra Homestays — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 20:00:40 +0000

Being a tropical country spread over a large area, India has the advantage of diverse weather conditions and it is always a good season to travel somewhere in India.

For many European and North American travellers looking to escape the often cold winter back home, the sandy coastal stretches of Southern India beckon. While Northern India shivers through the months of December and January, the southern states offer pleasant weather to bask in; the sun is at its brightest and perfect for those who like a good dose of it.

Here are some great places to head for some guaranteed sunshine this winter:

Goa
The smallest state of India needs little introduction to travellers. More than 80 kms of coast to boast about, this is India’s premier destination to catch some sun. The destination well equipped to warmly receive incoming travellers so there are plenty of places to stay and eat. During the winter months from October to March, the beaches are dotted with sunning travellers under bright umbrellas. Goa destination guide.

Varkala
An unexpected destination amidst the more traditional ones that Kerala has to offer, Varkala lies close to the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). The sandy white beach below a large drop from a high cliff, makes for a dramatic setting. Becoming increasingly popular with travellers over the last few years combine your dosage of sun with some fresh juices from the shacks on the cliff. A fantastic beach destination that can easily be combined with a few days in the iconic Keralan backwaters. Kerala destination guide.

Pondicherry
This French colony of Tamil Nadu is a quaint little town with cobble stone streets and convenient proximity to the sea. While you can hop on a bicycle and explore the town on a sunny day, it is also a perfect getaway with quiet isolated sandy stretches of beach for sunbathing. Pondicherry is a much loved destination among the travellers who venture here to discover its idyllic colonial houses and aesthetically beautiful restaurants as well. Tamil Nadu destination guide.

Rajasthan
While the nights might be cold, the warm sun during the day offers perfect temperatures for exploring the many historical sights or glittering palaces of India’s desert state Rajasthan. Old havelis and well manicured gardens are great to sprawl in and catch up on a good book while planning an action packed itinerary with plenty of history and shopping to take in. Don’t miss the awe inspiring sights of Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur and Jodhpur. Rajasthan destination guide.

The Marwar festival in Jodhpur

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 20:00:25 +0000

Fairs and Festivals in Rajasthan are colourful and lively affairs. Normally mythological in nature the celebrations relate to Gods and Goddesses, while others are celebrated to commemorate the brave deeds of medieval heroes. The Marwar Festival, held in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan is one such example.

History of the Marwar Festival
The festival is celebrated in the Hindu month of Ashwin (Sept-Oct) in Jodhpur, the former capital of Marwar Province. It is a festival devoted to the music and dance of Marwar region. The festival was originally known as “Maand” Festival. During these two days the folk artists bring to life the myths, legend and folklore of the area.

Why Jodhpur is the best location for the Festival
Jodhpur celebrates the die-hard courage of the heroes of the land, the Rajputs, who are the sons of royal houses. The massive Meharangarh fort and the impressive Umaid Bhawan Palace which are symbols of might and valour of the Rajputs, make Jodhpur an ideal location for the festival. The humongous fort is an apt place to enjoy the beauty of the beautiful blue city.

What to expect at the Festival
Bringing to life the legendary folklores of the area, the folk artists do complete justice to it. Listening to the folk musicians singing praises of the bygone heroes may not be completely understood by all but the fierce intensity can be strongly felt in these songs whatever language you speak. Being in the audience to the buoyant and spirited performers of the folk dances is an immerse experience. Watching the folk dancers, who accurately balance the earthen pots on their heads and dance to the rhythm of the songs sung by the singers, leaves the spectators in awe.

The typical Kalbeliya dance has made a mark internationally and you can witness it here in its own land with the true Indian spirit.

Bringing alive the competitive spirit of Rajasthan
Other attractions of the festival include horse riding and horse polo. Various other competitions are also organized during the festival. Women participate in henna competition, which involves the art of making intricate designs on palms with henna. Rajasthani men take immense pride in their moustache. A turban-tying and moustache competition for men is one of the highlights of the day.

The concept of valour and courage is woven intricately in almost every historical epic of a country. The harshness of the so called fighters is part of their personality. Their stamina to endure any given situation is remarkable. The Rajputs have set a milestone and created a rich history and celebrating these heroic tales allows participants to recognise the toughness of these fighters and the richness of the past.

Souvenirs to bring back home
A small fete is organized by the state tourism and cultural board wherein a number of craftsmen display their skills, you can buy numerous craft items and souvenirs displayed at the stalls set up here, known as “Haats”.

Dates for the Festival
For 2012 the festival is being held on the 28th and 29th of October.In 2013 the festival will take place on the 17th and 18th October

It is only by witnessing a festival such as the Marwar that you can really appreciate the magnificent historical past of Rajasthan!

Thanks to the photographers who shared their images under Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source by way of credit.

Photos of Indian Markets

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 20:00:57 +0000

No matter where in India you are visiting, a trip to the local market will you plenty to point your camera lens at. From bright cones of die, colourful fresh fruit and vegetables to garlands of flowers and exotic spices Indian markets are a sensory overload.

Here are some of our favourite photos of Indian markets around the country. Share your own market shots on Facebook and we will add the best to this post.

Vegetable seller in Cochin, Kerala

Colourful dye in Mysore, Karnataka

Roses for sale at the flower market on Jamalpur Bridge, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Roses for sale at Koyambedu Market, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Vegetable seller at Koyambedu Market, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Busy Panjim Market in Goa

Hungry goat in Jaipur Market, Rajasthan

Flower market of Delhi

Thanks to the photographers who shared their images under Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source by way of credit.