Mahindra Homestays » Inspiration

India Travel Tips: Managing Your Health in India

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 22:06:18 +0000

People travelling to India often have concerns about their health, no doubt having heard travellers tales involving bouts of sickness. While the pollution and dirt might make some paranoid on the other hand medical tourism is growing by leaps and bounds as people head to India for low cost treatments in first class facilities! Here are some tips and notes on basics of staying healthy when in India.

1. Vaccinations
Getting aptly vaccinated before you arrive is the best prevention. Your local health clinic will be able to guide you with their specific and professional recommendations. Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B are the most common vaccinations that travellers to India go for. Other special vaccinations like Yellow Fever, Meningococcal or Tetanus should be taken if advised.

2. Stay hydrated but treat water sources with caution
Water is of utmost concern wherever one travels. With diarrhea as one of the most common inflictions, staying hydrated is a key concern. The good thing is that mineral (packaged) water is available readily in all parts of the country and costs not more than Rs 15/- for a reliable brand. Just to be on the safe side, ensure that you are extremely careful and buy ONLY mineral water and check the seals carefully.

Portable water purification tablets are also available in the market if you are opting to go on remote treks. Portable Aqua is a popular brand but may not be available in India. Sporting Goods stores in some cities have these, so it’s better to pick it up before you come in. Alternatively Katadyn Micropur tablets are also available online.

3. Eat freshly cooked or food you can peel
Food being the next important thing on your list, rely on the adage ‘prevention is better than cure’ and only then dig in. India can be a gastronomic delight but to prevent it from becoming a nightmare later on do the best that you can to pick the cleanest options. Avoid eating raw substances from the street stalls, freshly cooked things are the most reliable. Problem areas to avoid are ice and fruit juice. Also, if you are travelling a lot, ensure that you keep your nails short and wash your hands before meals.

4. Treating minor ailments
‘Chemists’ (drug stores) in India are hard to miss. Every city and even smaller towns have plenty. Seek the store owner’s advice on what you can pick up over the counter. Medicines for head-aches, fever and diarrhea are available very easily.

5. Seasonal harshness
Seasonal harshness is another problem that many travellers face. In summers ensure that you are protected from the sun and hydrate sufficiently. On the other hand monsoons on the western coast can be unrelenting. If hiking during this time, be careful of leeches. Try and keep dry as skin infections are common due to the moist weather. Most Westerners find the winters very pleasant in India. The problem arises with not the extent of cold but altitude handling. Medicines like Diamox are said to reduce the chances, but the best way to stay fit in the mountains in acclimatise slowly, and keep hydrated.

Simple precautions will go a long way in having a healthy stay in India and before you know it, you can throw the obsessive worry to the winds and enjoy your travels. In the unfortunate event that you do get sick for minor treatments, there may be an option of exploring Ayurveda. If you are staying in a homestay your host will ensure you can get personal care, attention and sound advice on health and safety and assist you with contacting a medical professional.

Best Monsoon Destinations of India – Head Westward!

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 21:34:01 +0000

As the first shower of the season hits the coastal towns of India, off-beat traveller start planning a monsoon holiday. Not inhibited by clouds or even water wading moments, travelling during the Indian monsoons can be an invigorating experience. There is nothing better than a rain-washed, lush country side and of course discounted rates for many destinations. We take you through some of the best monsoon destinations in India and encourage you to head west!

Goa in monsoon season
Known for its sprawling beaches, an erstwhile legacy of hippy love and an alternative style made to fit, here’s Goa in a whole new light. There is such a distinct change in the environs of Goa between the hot summer months and the cloudy monsoons that it is even worth visiting twice in a year!

For those who want to feel the drizzle on their faces and have a different rendezvous with the sea, Goa should be on your list. While it rains ensure that you have a warm comfortable bed and some great conversation to bank on. Then take your weather beaten umbrella to the Vagator beach for a vantage view point at the Thallasa Greek Restaurant or sit at Fort Aguada to see the water from the skies and sea, mingle in a turbulent mess!

Travelling during the monsoon season is a great time to mix with the locals during some of the lesser known festivals. Bonderam is one such festival, which is specific to Divar Island, off Old Goa. To commemorate old battles fought, young boys and girls re-enact the times in costumes. Don’t miss their mock missiles made of berries and weapons of bamboos. The festival ends with a parade which has everyone joining in the merriment.

The monsoon season is also a good time to explore the wildlife of Goa. Take in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which is is not too far from Usgaon. Alternatively, just off Canacona, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to spot wild boar, langurs, bisons and plenty of avian life. Watch out for the leeches and be sure to carry some sturdy boots.

Kerala in monsoon season
The Western Coast remains one of greenest and freshest at this time, so Kerala should definitely be on the list. Depart from the coast onto the Northern and Western regions of the state. The Kasargod area still remains un-tread upon and of course Wayanad is an established getaway for the rains. While in Wayanad, see if you can catch the Splash Carnival, a Kerala Government endeavour where cultural programmes, indoor and outdoor games, and variety of competitions await travellers.

Maharashtra in monsoon season
Wander about on the Western Coast of the country and the delights don’t stop. For all of you who want to get out of jammed Mumbai roads in the thick of the monsoons, all you need to do is head out a short distance away. In Maharashtra take your pick from short hikes or long stays at Matheran, the Kondana and Kanheri Caves or just plunge into the frothy waters for a rafting trip.

Karnataka in monsoon season
Likewise, as you keep heading northwards, coastal Karnataka gets its fair share of monsoon magic in places like Dandeli and the Brahamgiri ranges. Apart from the fact that this time of the year is rather cooler and free of tourists the monsoon months also make many places affordable.

So pack your flip-flops and a sturdy umbrella and head out to towards the West coast of India.

If you would like to travel in India during the monsoon season contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans. There is currently 50% discount on selected homestays so curl up with a book, listen to fascinating stories from your hosts and enjoy delicious home cooked food while you wait for a break in the rain to explore the countryside at it’s lushest best!

Things To Do in Yercaud, a near-pristine hillstation in Tamil Nadu

Mahindra Homestays — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 23:22:34 +0000

Yercaud is a quiet and near-pristine hillstation in Tamil Nadu. It is perched at an altitude of 1,500 m above sea level and is located in the Shevaroys range of hills in the Eastern Ghats. Yercaud is an enchanting and picturesque hill station and there are plenty of things to do in Yercaud for visitors.

1. FLORA: Much like the rest of the region, Yercaud is known for its coffee plantations. But here people can also find densely laid out orange trees. In Yercaud don’t miss the delightful orchidarium with a large collection of native orchids.

2. FAUNA: Wildlife loves will enjoy spotting bison, deer and more. Partridges, kites, swallows and more will thrill birdwatching enthusiasts. Trekking is one of the top things to do in Yercaud and offers good opportunities for wildlife spotting.

3. SERVARAYAN TEMPLE: Set at a height of 5326 feet, this is Yercaud’s highest point. So, it attracts people for more than its spiritual value. The view from here is a photographer’s delight, particularly at sunset.

4. THE YERCAUD LAKE: This usually uncrowded and clear lake is surrounded by greenery and thick woods. In May, Anna Park, the Lake’s beautifully manicured garden is the venue of a popular Summer Festival. Near the Lake you can find the Deer Park, where spotted deers are housed.

5. KILLIYUR WATERFALLS: This beautiful, 300 feet high waterfall is found in the Eastern ghats. Guests can join a visit to this waterfall along with a trip to the lake as they are merely 3kms apart. The final 500m stretch to the waterfall is steep and trying, but it is worth the effort.

6. THE LADY’S SEAT: This popular tourist site is shared by many nearby hillstations like Coonoor and Ooty. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the ghats around. At night, the bright lights of Salem town are a sight to behold. With a clear sky, it almost feels that there are stars both above and beneath you.

7. PAGODA POINT: This is also another popular viewpoint in Yercaud. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama here. But it is mostly an attraction for those looking for scenic vistas of the region.

8. ANNA PARK: This lovely Park is a favourite amongst families. It is located near Yercaud Lake and has activities which cater to children such as slides. Inside make sure you don’t miss the Japanese park, where flora is grown in traditional Japanese style.

Find out more about Yercaud and search for homestays.

If you are interested in trying some of these things to do in Yercaud then get in touch with our reservations team who can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

Opening the door to India – download your free brochure

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:49:33 +0000

Download your free brochure

Format PDF | Size 5.6 Mb

India is a country which imprints an unforgettable impression on visitors through its food, sights, sounds and most importantly, its people.

Staying in a property owned and run by a family, whether it be a palace or heritage estate;a colonial hilltop cottage or cosy plantation home, is a great way to find out more about (and be part of) everyday life in India.

Choosing a homestay allows your experience of India to be up close and personal. Choosing Mahindra Homestays ensures the highest quality, safety and comfort for the most discerning of guests.

Our new homestay brochure is available to download and is packed with inspirational images and ideas to help you plan your perfect trip.

With advice on when to visit, how to get to the most popular destinations and what unique experiences you might encounter the Mahindra Homestays brochure contains plenty of information for anyone planning a trip to or within India.

National Parks of India – Jim Corbett National Park

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 05:09:11 +0000

In our National Parks of India series we take a look at some of the vast areas that are protected as a national park, primarily to safeguard the habitats of conservation reliant wildlife. It is appropriate that the first park to feature in this series is Jim Corbett National Park, the oldest national park in India.

HISTORY
Jim Corbett National Park’s history can be traced back to the 1800s when it was the private property of Terhi Garhwal’s rulers. In the early 1860s the British forest department established control over the land and prohibited cultivation and the operation of cattle stations and established a reserve area known as Hailey National Park on August 6th 1936, making the area India’s first National Park and the world’s third.

In 1957, the park was renamed in memory of Jim Corbett, a legendary hunter turned conversationalist who played a key role in creating the reserve. This was one of the first national parks where Project Tiger was initiated.

HOW TO REACH JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK
The Jim Corbett National Park is situated in Ramnagar in the district of Nainital, Uttaranchal, which is 280 kms from Delhi. The nearest train station is in Ramnagar and daily trains from Delhi as well as smaller cities connects it to the country.

Driving down by via Moradabad is a popular option.

ATTRACTIONS
The best way to explore Jim Corbett National Park is by jeep or elephant safaris. Nature walks, photography opportunities and trekking trails are abundant. Himalayan birding tours, fishing, and tiger trails are most popular amongst visitors. River rafting and camping can also be arranged.

The wildlife here is Jim Corbett National Park’s biggest attraction. Tigers are spotted frequently here. Walking around you’ll come across elephant herds, 20 foot pythons, deer, rare birds and much more.

Find out more about things to do in Jim Corbett National Park.

WHERE TO STAY
There are several resorts in Ramnagar lining the Jim Corbett National Park. Some of these exceptional resorts and lavish homestays are Jagaar Village Resort, The Homestead, Emily Cottage, Camp Corbett and The Hive.

If you are interested in visiting Jim Corbett National Park yourself then our reservations team can help you plan a trip based on your interests. Get in touch to find out more!

Best place to see wild elephants in India

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 06:23:32 +0000

The magnificent elephant is found in many parts of India. If you want to see wild elephants in India there are some great places to spot herds of these large animals. A breathtaking sight and one that you will definitely want your camera ready for. Here are two options where you have a great chance of seeing wild elephants.

PERIYAR, KERALA
Periyar National Park (pictured above) is located in Thekkady, Kerala. It is one of the most unique Parks in the world, as its amazing landscapes were formed when a reservoir was created here. The most popular way to explore the Park is by mechanical boat rides. On the cruise, one will surely see a herd of elephants walking together. Their languid walk is almost hypnotic. The aww-inspiring sight of adorable calves playfully running about is forever etched in one’s mind.

RAJAJI, DEHRADUN
Rajaji National Park in Dehradun is one of India’s most underrated Parks. The Park is filled with elephants, leopards and more. In fact, there are so many elephants here that at night they often clog the roads, while crossing. Most drivers will refuse to cross the Park after dark.

If you are interested in seeing wild elephants in India or other Indian wildlife in it’s natural habitat then get in touch with our reservations team who can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

Destination of the Month: This March experience the Barsana Holi

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 04:55:00 +0000

March is all about the colours of spring, especially with India’s famous Holi festival. While celebrated throughout India the Barsana Holi is well known for a fervent celebration known as the Lath-maar Holi making it the can’t miss destination of the month!

WHAT IS HOLI
One of India’s most prominent festivals is Holi. It’s celebrated in many parts of India in various atypical and enchanting ways. As most people know, Holi is a festival of colours. It is widely celebrated in North India. In Rajasthan, the celebrations have a wild but regal flavour whereas in Uttar Pradesh things get downright chaotic. Urban Delhi presents a tame version of the festival and in the hills it is mostly a simple occasion.

WHEN IS HOLI
Holi usually falls in March around springtime. This year, the colourful two-day festival is on 20th of March.

BARSANA, MATHURA AND VRINDAVAN
As Holi led down from legends about Lord Krishna, people of Mathura and Vrindavan are most passionate about it. For them it’s a legacy and not just a festival to have a wild time, though there’s no scarcity of intoxicants, loud music and revelry.

Barsana is where the famous Barsana Holi is celebrated. Legend has it that Lord Krishna was chased away from the village of Barsana after playfully teasing Radha his Consort her and her and her friend gopis. In remembrance the day is celebrated as hundereds of women beat their brothers-in-law with sticks. Fortunately the men are allowed a shield to protect themselves.

REACHING THERE
Vrindavan-Mathura are approximately 110 kms from Delhi (International airport) and 60 kms from Agra. People from Delhi and Agra undertake same day to and fro journeys to Vrindavan-Mathura commonly.

WHERE TO STAY
On Holi one can expect these places to become a bit manic. So, having a reliable homestay arrange your journey is advised. Choose from a Delhi homestay or stay in Agra at Col. Lamba’s Lodge or Garden Villa

ALTERNATIVELY …
The Rajasthani Holi is a sophisticated version of the festival as by and large the people of the state are most polite. Beautiful Rajasthani folk music adds a rich flavour to the celebrations. Special events and music festivals are plentiful and there is a lot of festivities for tourists to take part in and enjoy. The Holi celebrations of Rajasthan attracts dignitaries and leaders from the world over.

Do you want to experience Holi in India or see the Barsana Holi? Get in touch with our reservations team who will be able to help you plan your trip.

Get married in India; Destinations for your dream day

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:09:47 +0000

One of the latest marriage trends is to celebrate in style with a destination wedding. The billion dollar Indian wedding industry is in overdrive during the winter months full of colour, celebration and lavish feasts. The Gods are awake and the planets are perfectly aligned for your special day. We bring you three dreamy locations ideal for your wedding destination if you want to get married in India!

Rajasthan
Every bride wants to feel like a princess on her big day, standing next to her knight in shining armour. So what location could be more suitable to create this fantasy than the royal state of Rajasthan? Palaces, Havelis, ancient temples are often rented by families to host the lavish event. Everything from the trousseau to the décor to the invites draws inspiration from the regal history and art of Rajasthan. Folk dancers, singers and musicians edge out DJs and their homogenous playlists.

Little wonder, it’s become the choice of venue for A-List celebrities like Liz Hurley and Arun Nayyar, Katy Perry and Russel Brand, and if rumours are to be believed even the ultimate celebrity couple, Brangelina.

Goa
While some couples love to be treated like royalty for a day, others prefer a more bohemian theme. Casual, serene, laidback and romantic; there’s no better place than the world renowned Goa.

Goa is most famous as a party place. But there’s a quiet, tender and intimate side to Goa as well. Look beyond the popular beaches like Baga, Calingute and Anjuna, there’s a host of flawless, private beaches perfect for a couple seeking a barefoot dreamy wedding on the sand. It’s particularly suitable for young couples who love the idea of exchanging their vows and then partying the night away in a beachside bar with their near and dear ones.

Kerala
Who could be a better host for a couple’s entry into holy matrimony than Kerala, God’s own country. There’s possibly no place like Kerala when it comes to combining serenity, natural beauty and the simplicity of life. Hiring houseboats for the wedding party and a farmhouse as the venue for the wedding ceremony is popular amongst artists and writers. The idea of an ostententatious wedding is fairly alien to Kerala’s way of living and celebrating. That’s why it draws couples looking to start their life together with simplicity and sophistication in one of the most beautiful spots on the Earth.

Want to get married in India? Get in touch with our reservations team who can help.

A dreamy day at the Kingdom of Dreams in Delhi

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 08:37:40 +0000

The latest addition to list of attraction around the capital is one that outshines its counterparts across the world. It’s a fantasy themed region inspired by traditional Indian architecture, costumes, music, gypsies and mysticism. This larger than life place is called Kingdom of Dreams and here’s what you need to know about it.

ZANGOORA
The star of Kingdom of Dreams is the spectacular Bollywood musical, Zangoora. The show is based on the life of a prince who was lost as a child and grows up amongst gypsies. The show’s pyrotechincs, acrobats, music, dance, colour and spirit have compelled people to place it above most Broadway productions. Absolutely stunning. Steve Wynn is amongst the shows admirers and it has been reported that he’s taking Zangoora to his hotels in Las Vegas.

FOOD
Almost all Indian states are represented at the Kingdom of Dreams’ Culture Gully. Extravagant havelis represent Rahasthan and Lucknow, a massive kettuvalam houses the Keralite restaurant and a small manmade beach sits pretty next to little Goa. Shopping for the products that are iconic of each region is popular amongst guests albeit they are priced steeply.

DANCES
While you’re enjoying your lunch or dinner you can enjoy periodic dances which are performed outside ‘Lucknow’. Various Indian folk dances are performed after every 30 minutes or so.

IIFA Buzz Cafe
For Hindi movie buffs the Bollywood centric IIFA Buzz Cafe is a good place to sit back and enjoy a few drinks. The competitive pricing and unique theme keeps the people coming in after sunset.
PRICING: On weekdays the entry ticket for an adult is INR 500, 70% of which is redeemable in the form of food. On weekends the entry ticket goes up to INR 750 per adult. Prices for Zangoora start at INR 750 and are not included in the entry charges. The doors of Kingdom of Dreams open at 1pm.

LOCATION
Kingdom of Dreams is located in Gurgaon. Once near the IFFCO Chowk Metro station, well placed boards direct people easily to the destination. One can take a metro to this station and then reach by rickshaw otherwise taxis can be hired from Delhi itself.

STAY
Browse our homestay collection in Delhi

Images supplied with kind permission from Kingdom of Dreams

Meet the hosts: Mr. Keshavendra Singh

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 08:06:40 +0000

Avid travellers will agree that a great adventure is incomplete without meeting great people, and it’s even better when you have the opportunity to stay with them. In our new blog series we will be meeting some of the extrodinary homestay hosts who have stories and backgrounds that are as interesting and unique as their homes.

Mr. Keshavendra Singh of Fort Rampura is a man of few words but one who has tons of stories to share.

Over a drink in the evening or while escorting guests across the fort premises, Keshav or his wife Padmini will share the dramatic history of the regions and their home. The Fort dates back over six hundred years and takes it name from Raja Ramshaha who first built the Fort. The Rampura family trace their lineage to the Kachawaha clan of Rajputs from Narwar, Madhya Pradesh and the history of the clan is over 900 years old.

From Chambal’s famous dacoits to miracle making sages, their home’s history is the stuff legends are made of. The young couple are the royals of Rampura and Keshav is now a politician. Their ancestors hunted man-eaters and collected unique treasures.

The Singhs are, clearly, no ordinary family.

Meet these hosts yourself with a stay at the majestic Fort Rampura homestay.