Srinagar in May

May is late spring in Srinagar so you will beat the main crowds who arrive during the summer months of June through to August. The weather is pleasant (an average of 25 C) although you might still want to pack a light jumper for the evenings.

Of course Srinagar can be enjoyed throughout the bustling summer months and into the autumn. If travelling during peak season it is important to book your accommodation and any transport well in advance.

What to see in Srinagar

Here are our top five picks of how to spend your time in Srinagar if you are visiting this May.

1. Dal Lake – The Dal Lake is always featured in lists of things to do in Srinagar beacuse of its unparalleled beauty. Stay on the lake so you can enjoy the activity at close quarters. Watch how the water body comes alive with action with houses, shops, fruit sellers and school children, all aboard on boats in the mornings. This may be a unique sight for you but its business as usual in Srinagar.

2. Apple Orchards – The weather is just right to visit the apple orchards of Srinagar at this time of the year. The season is just starting at this time and there is plenty of activity in the farms. It is recommended to stay in a farm house to get an intimate experience of the farm life.

3. Saffron Fields – It is a little known fact that apart from apples, Kashmir is also one of the largest producers of saffron. This much coveted ingredient is a favourite in Indian puddings. Saffron is not only grown in large volumes but also in households. Though May not be the appropriate month for saffron flowers to bloom, you can still see the plush fields at this time. Get a local guide to show you the large expanse of fields – another natural element of Kashmir that you are going to love.

4. Cricket Bats – For a cricket crazy country, the production of bats happens in very small and choicest areas. Kashmir is one such limited source from where the bats are procured. A trip to the factory is going to be very exciting for children

5. Verinag and communities around Jhelum – Just a short ride away from Srinagar, a small unassuming town called Verinag sits at the source of the river Jhelum. It is a great weekend getaway at a short distance from the city. The scenic vistas are awe inspiring.

Where to stay in Srinagar

A visit to Srinagar is incomplete without a couple of nights in a houseboat. Srinagar and the life in it, revolves around the Dal Lake. The walks on the Boulevard, the shikara rides and the beautiful sunsets are best viewed with the lake in the foreground (see the view from a houseboat below). The Green Paradise offers a fleet of family owned houseboats, all falling within the super deluxe category. Each houseboat has its own crew that takes care of your food and any activities that you want.

Combine a houseboat with a few days in the mountains. Hillscape Inn offers a beautiful view of Dal Lake and you can spend your days trekking in the mountains before heading back to your homestay for a bonfire dinner.

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The first time I travelled in India, in 2005-06, I arrived with a treasure trove of fantasies and ideas about India — and my expectations were high. I knew about the fairytale desert forts, the sacred pilgrimage sites, the monumental metropolises and, of course, the quaint hill stations, fabled relics of a bygone era.

Every hill station in India lays claim to being the “queen of hill stations” and I am sure they all have their charms. I haven’t been to all of them, just two in fact — Simla and Darjeeling — but they both won my allegiance.

I arrived in Simla after a month of volunteering in Dharamsala, and I was looking forward to a few days of aimless respite. I had been ill in Dharamsala, and was worried the long drive to Simla — along narrow winding roads with heart-stopping drop-offs — would wear me down.

But as soon as I arrived in the hill top town, I felt my spirits lift. I have discovered after almost 15 months of travel in India, spread over five trips, that places either strongly agreed with me — or the opposite. Simla agreed with me. It turned out to be the perfect place for a break from it all. I found the mountain air and panoramic views reviving, and I loved to just stroll along the ridge-top Mall discovering historical sites like the former Viceregal Lodge (now an educational institute) and Scandal Point.

After a day or two in Simla, my boyfriend joined me, and when together we walked along the Mall I was aware that at one time we would have caused a scandal indeed: a woman of British descent walking with an Indian man. In fact, it would have been illegal for him to walk on the Mall before independence. Times do change for the better.

When it came time to leave our beloved sojourn in Simla, we took the toy train down to Kalka, where we were meeting the train back to Delhi. We stopped and ate snacks along the way, counted the 103 tunnels, joked about walking alongside the train (and probably getting to our destination faster) and had a delightful time.

It was several years before I travelled to my second hill station. I was approaching a red-letter birthday — a biggie! — and I pondered deeply about where I wanted to spend it. But even though I pondered, I knew: Watching the sunrise against the backdrop of the white wall of the Himalayas from Tiger Hill, outside of Darjeeling.

I arrived the day before my birthday and it was love at first sight. I walked up to the top of Observatory Hill, to Mahakala Temple, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists and then had tea at the historic Windamere Hotel, one of Asia’s top heritage hotels. The views of swirling mist around the mountain top; the sound of the temple’s hundreds of prayer flags flapping; the taste of the light, fragrant, tea — I loved it all.

The next morning, I bound out of bed before dawn to make the drive up to Tiger Hill for the sunrise — knowing that we may or may not have a clear day (the odds seem to be about 3-to-1 against). Luckily for me, and a good augur for the decade to come, the morning dawned perfectly clear. And though the viewing area was crowded and noisy, and I was tired and cold, watching the sunrise light up the white wall of the Himalayas in the distance — colouring the mountains gold, rose pink and deep mauve by turn — was worth the effort. It was one of the most spectacular travel moments of my life.

My guide Paras and I walked part way down Tiger Hill, stopping at a tiny, ancient Durga temple, built literally into the side of the hill, with earth and tree roots forming the interior. We arrived just in time for puja — just Paras, me and three female devotees — and I received a blessing. As we walked further down, we continued to see the five massive peaks of mighty Kanchendzonga, the world’s third highest mountain, looming above the valley like a giant ocean liner sailing on a sea of clouds.

Back at the Windamere for breakfast and more Darjeeling tea, I was served on the terrace with the panoramic view. And as I watched the dance of the breaking sun vying with the swirling mists, and heard the prayer flags from the temple above flapping in the breeze, I felt serenely, majestically happy.

Images are of Darjeeling and the Makaibari Tea Company. See more of Mariellen’s photographs from this trip.

About the guest blogger: Mariellen Ward is a Canadian freelance writer and travel blogger, well-known on the Internet for her love of “all things India.” Mariellen has traveled for more than a year altogether in India and publishes an India-inspired travel blog Breathedreamgo. She writes about India, meaningful adventure travel and yoga for newspapers, magazines and many online sites and recently published her first book, Song of India: Tales of Travel and Transformation.

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If you are a keen photographer with an eye for a great photo then don’t miss out on the opportunity to win a three week photographic commission tour around India with our travel photography contest on Facebook.

Perhaps no other country is as photogenic, as multidimensional India. From ornate temples to crumbling fortresses, bustling spice markets to tranquil yoga retreats and population packed metropolises to quiet hill stations; India is a country of contrasts. Packed with colour and inquisitive people, India is a travel photographer’s dream destination.

If you are the lucky winner, we will fly you and your guest to Delhi to start your trip, which will take you to some of the most diverse sights of India. Please click here to see a route map of the journey you will take, which includes:

• The Tibetan settlements of Dharamshala in North India
• A houseboat experience in Jammu and Kashmir
• India’s most iconic building, the Taj Mahal in Agra
• The pink city of Jaipur, springing from the desert in royal Rajasthan
• A night time safari in the wildlife, and big cat haven of Pali.

We are looking for a talented photographer capable of capturing the essence of India. In order to enter you will need to submit three of your best travel images (which can be taken anywhere in the world). You will need to supply photos taken in each of the following categories:

1. Travel Icons
Photos from this category should be taken outside and can include portrait shots of people that represent local culture or iconic / typical buildings that represent a destination.

2. Indoor
Photos in this category should show how you manage with difficult lighting situations. Shots could include the interior of temples, interesting shops or restaurants or people in their home.

3. Landscape
Photos in this category should capture the visual glory of the destination; from brightly lit cityscapes to breathtaking valley views.

To find out more details or to submit your entry please visit our Facebook page. Entries can only be accepted via our official entry form.

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The prize for week three was a trip to Nainital, a hill station in North India. Once again we were looking for the lowest unique bid to secure the holiday.

The lucky winner was Manoj Kumar Aggarwal from New Delhi with a bid of 14 Rs. Manoj, pictured above with his family, was delighted to be declared our week three winner.

He said, “When I found the holiday auction contest for Mahindra Homestays on Facebook I started to dream of a vacation, now winning the contest has made that vacation a reality.

The prize for week four was a trip to lovely Matiana, in Himachal Pradesh.

The winner for week four was Navalkishore Chhawchharia from Ahmedabad (pictured above) with a winning bid of 10 Rs.

When he found out he was the lucky winner he said, “I just saw an advert for the competition on Facebook and decided to try my luck with it. I used my date of birth to choose the number 10. Luckily I won the prize.

“I was planning to do a tour of Himachal next year in February; maybe God heard my wish to travel there. I am really happy to be the winner.”

We are launching a new contest next week where a lucky winner will win a three week tour of India for themselves and a partner. Make sure you like us on Facebook to be alerted when the contest goes live!

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Not too many countries on earth have a state budget made separately for the Railways, neither have they inspired authors and film-makers for ages. The Indian Railways, carrying 30 million passengers and joining 65,000 km of India, isn’t unique only for these numbers, but for the diversity it carries along. It joins the length and breadth of India and touches her heart like no one else does. Probably the best way to see India is by taking a train ride, sneaking into her undiscovered cultures, gazing into her unexplored landscapes and soaking in her invigorating air.

Being a passenger in the Indian Railways for over twenty years and having travelled on numerous routes, it isn’t an easy task to choose the best routes; still I will try and do my best.

The expensive special trains and their journeys will be kept out of this post for obvious reasons. Let the budget traveller rule the roost!

1. The Kashmir Railway (Jammu – Udhampur)

The Kashmir Railway is one of the most challenging engineering projects in India. The extremes of cold and heat along with the unfavorable terrain and political scenarios make this route one of the most thrilling of all Indian train routes. This route has 20 major tunnels and 158 bridges which offer awe inspiring views of the rivers and valleys around the beautiful Shivalik Mountain Ranges.

2. The Snow Sojourn (Qazigund-Srinagar-Baramulla)

This is a part of the Kashmir Railway, but currently work is going on the section between Jammu and Qazigund, thus making this another separate leg of the journey. When complete, this will be a part of the greater Kashmir railway which will connect Jammu to Baramulla, or rather the plains to the Valley.

The journey promises a refreshing ride through the Kashmir Valley, weaving through the snow capped peaks at a distance and the Chinar trees all around. The best part of taking this journey is during the winters when the surroundings are filled with snow.

There is only the option of an unreserved DEMU train currently on this route.

3. The Kangra Valley Odyssey ( Pathankot – Kangra-Palampur-Jogindernagar)

The Kangra Valley Railway belongs to the sub-Himalayan region in Himachal Pradesh. Starting from Pathankot in Punjab, it covers 164 kms to Jogindernagar in Himachal Pradesh, meandering through numerous passes, rivers and valleys. Even though it’s a laid back option of traveling across the Kangra valley, yet the views it offers compensates the speed. The sight of the snow capped Dhauladhar hills at a distance after Palampur rewards the tired soul exuberantly.

The journey of 165 km from Pathankot to Jogindernagar takes almost a whopping 10 hours.

The unreserved Kangra Valley Passenger is the only train on this route currently.

4. The Konkan Railway(Ratnagiri-Madgaon-Honnavar-Mangalore)

Amazing greeneries, plethora of water bodies, stunning curves and the magnificent Sahyadris join hands to make this one of the most sought after train travel experience for any railway enthusiast in India.

The Konkan Railway is also an example of the high spirits of the engineers of this country, who constructed this marvel battling against a hostile loose terrain with frequent landslide tendencies.

5. The Goan Experience ( Vasco Da Gama – Londa Jn)

Goa might be known for its pristine beaches and emerald waters, but there is another side of Goa which cannot be missed. The lush green villages, thick jungles and the abundant waterfalls constitute a charming world of Goan Rails. A train ride from Vasco takes you from the serene beaches to the precarious curves of Western Ghat Mountains offering a breathtaking sight of the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of India’s highest and most exquisite falls.

6. Nilgiri Mountain Railway(Mettupalayam-Udhagamandalam)

When the blue and cream coloured coaches chug up the blue mountains, even the crudest of all hearts will skip a beat. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, running for over a 110 years is another train journey, you simply cannot miss.

The steam engine covers the 46 km to Ooty in four and a half hours, twisting and turning through the rocky terrain, before slowly meandering into the sprawling tea estates. The familiar chuffing sound of the steam locomotive casts an old world charm and reminds of the legacies of the British Raj.

7. Himalayan Queen(Kalka – Shimla)

Being the only mountain railway in India, to be used by regular commuters, the heritage railway between Kalka and Shimla features in the Guinness Book of World Records for offering the steepest rise in altitude in the space of 96 kilometers.

Built in 1903, it passes through 102 tunnels and 864 bridges, flanked by the picturesque Shivalik Hills on both sides. The train guzzles along the track, built over viaducts which resemble the arch galleries of ancient Roman architecture. A morning ride on this stretch, wrapping the fresh air, whistling past the oak, pine and maple trees has all the ingredients to make it a journey of a lifetime.

8. The Toy Train-Darjeeling Himalayan Railway( New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling)

The oldest of all mountain railways in India, the Toy Train is also a World Heritage Site, declared by UNESCO in 1999.Loops are a special feature of this railway to give it a natural ascent. The most popular being the ‘Batasia Loop’ which offers stunning views of Darjeeling town and the snow capped Mt Kanchenjunga on a clear day.

On its ascent from Sukna, the train crosses a few settlements and towns weaving through the tea gardens, tea factories and small forests of maple, chestnut, pear and cherry. One can also sneak a peek into the hustle bustle of the Gorkha settlements on the way. Gorkhas are an ethnic group of this region with Mongolian features known for their valor and bravery.

The train chugs alongside the busy highway and often intrigues the traveller with its slow, yet effective pace.

9. Matheran Hill Railway (Neral-Matheran)

Matheran, nestled in the Western Ghats, is one of the favourite weekend destinations for busy Mumbaikars. It still holds its charm, thanks to no vehicles being allowed in the town. One has to take a pony ride or walk on the dusty and muddy roads to go around Matheran.

The Matheran Hill Railway is the only heritage railway in Maharashtra. This narrow gauge rail link between Neral and Matheran was built by Abdul Hussein Adamjee Peerbhoy between 1901 and 1907 at the cost of Rs.1600000. The route, through large swathes of forest territory, covers a distance of 20 kilometers in about one and half hours, is full of panoramic views .Any lone visitor will surely enjoy the tranquillity this ride offers.

10. Dooars Voyage (Siliguri – New Mal – Hasimara –Alipurduar)

A vast expanse of dense forests brimming with wildlife, murmur of streams trotting down from the hills of Sikkim and Bhutan, interwoven by tea gardens and dissected by the gorging Teesta River make Dooars a unique palette of nature.

The train route recently converted to broad gauge has minimum traffic but passes through notable wildlife sanctuaries abound in a fascinating diversity of flora and fauna. It crosses Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Chapramari Forest, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary and Buxa Tiger Reserve along with numerous stream crossings. You can get down at Chalsa, Hasimara or Rajabhatkhawa to get drenched in the Dooars experience.

11. Flavours of Assam (Guwahati-Lumding-Silchar)

The aroma of Assam runs into your senses as the train inches into the lush greenery of the adjoining valleys of Haflong, before joining the banks of River Jatinga and meandering along with it. A few hours later catch the flavour of the tea gardens of Barak valley, before running into the plains. This track now goes south and connects Agartala (the second largest city of North East India) to rest of the country.

12. Desert Queen ( Jaipur-Jaisalmer)

Jaisalmer is the gateway to all the camel safaris in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. A train journey from Jaipur to Jaisalmer can be a great experience of viewing the barren stretches of the Thar Desert. The vibrant settlements of colourful mud huts and stray camels grazing in the flat desert against the rising sun can be a sight to cherish forever in life.

13. Arakku Valley Railway ( Vizag – Arakku)

Arakku Valley is a popular hotspot for nature enthusiasts, boasting of thick forests and coffee plantations. Vishakhapatnam, an important port city of East India has a rail link to Arakku, which lies on the Kothavalasa and Kirandul (KK) Line. This is one of rare broad gauge hill railways of India, which was built to transport iron ore from the mines of Chattisgarh to the port city of Vizag, presently known as Vishakhapatnam.

The rail route is one of the better ways to travel to Arakku Valley, crossing quite a few caves and waterfalls on the way.

14. Malnad Magic (Hassan – Mangalore)

The picturesque green paddy fields and Areca nut palm trees of the Malnad region encompasses this route. The best stretch is the one between Sakleshpur and Subramanya stations, where the train chugs through 57 tunnels offering a stunning view of the misty mountains and the sparkling waterfalls all around.

15. The Sea Bridge Ride (Mandapam- Pamban- Rameswaram)

The bridge that connects Mandapam in TamilNadu to the Pamban island is the second longest sea bridge in India and even if you are not a pilgrim to the Varanasi of south, you will fall in love with this train ride crossing the Gulf of Mannar.

16. The Western Ghat Saunter( Karjat – Lonavala)

As the train passes Karjat in Maharashtra, it enters the hinterland of the Western Ghats, not the mightiest in terms of height but extremely rich in biodiversity. During monsoons, this journey comes alive with numerous streams and cascading waterfalls on its way. The dense foliage with the backdrop of the hills will make you move out of your seat and enjoy the scenery at the door.

The train passes through the village settlements of Thakurwadi before hiking up Monkey Hill, then crossing the romantic Khandala reaches Lonavala.

17. Chambal Express (Agra to Gwalior)

The infamous Chambal region has been in the news for decades, thanks to the dacoits who might have created a record for the maximum number of extortions, robberies and murders in the region. But there is something about the ravines of Chambal that impresses the eye. The terrain has been supporting the sons of her soil since ages, with its unique diversity of undulations that makes it easier for the villains to rob and escape. A train ride through the Chambal ravines can bring a rush of adrenaline to the adventurous and a sense of curiosity to the landscape lover.

18. The Kerala Anubhavam (Ernakulam-Kollam-Trivandrum)

There isn’t a better way to experience the magic of Kerala, than by taking a train ride from Ernakulam(Cochin) to Trivandrum via Kollam (Quilon).It is like a holiday package which offers you all in one. The enchanting backwaters, the pristine lakes, the coconut palms fencing the water channels and a peek into the rural life of Kerala living in islands formed out of the backwaters.

19. The Travancore Railway (Kollam-Punalur-Sengottai)

The erstwhile Maharaja of Travancore had flagged off the first train on this route, way back in 1907.The section from Punalur to Sengottai crossing the beautiful Cardamom Hills is the best part of this journey in terms of the lushness of nature and the architectural marvels. The famous 13 arched bridge is a sight to remember on this route.

This section is currently closed for gauge conversion. Once complete this will connect Trivandrum to Chennai in the fastest way. Expected to complete by 2013.Currently one can take a ride up to Punalur only.

20. Unknown Andhra (Guntakal – Guntur)

The section between Dhone and Cumbum on the Guntakal – Guntur boasts of a scenic journey through the Eastern Ghats. Most of the express trains pass this stretch at night, but there are a few passenger trains that can be taken to experience the scenic beauty of this unexplored part of Andhra Pradesh. One can also alight at Cumbum station to see the Cumbum Lake, the oldest man-made lake of Asia.

21. Tribal Orissa Odyssey (Koraput – Rayagada)

Popularly known as the KR line, the Koraput-Rayagada line is an off shoot from the Kirandul- Kothavalasa (KK) line. Koraput is about 800 meters above sea level and the journey till Rayagada at 200 meters is an enchanting downhill experience. The dense forests and horse shoe curves add a charm to this unknown ride.

22. Lake View Chilika (Bhubaneswar- Brahmapur )

Take a morning ride from Bhubaneswar to Brahmapur in Orissa to experience the grandeur of the Chilika Lake on your left and the Eastern Ghats on your right. Chilika is the second largest lagoon on earth and a haven for migratory birds. If you are into bird watching, make sure you sit on the train window with a binocular.

23. Aravalli Adventure (Himmatnagar – Udaipur/Mavli – Marwar)

The Aravalli range runs across the state of Rajasthan from north to south. These old mountains consist of steep rocky ridges, formed due to erosion of an ancient folded mountain. They are rich in the history of Rajasthan which unfolds when a journey is taken to the interiors meeting the locals, listening to the folklores.

A train journey from Ahmedabad to Udaipur passes through a section of the hills and is a nice experience.To travel into the interiors of Aravalli, the meter gauge line from Mavli to Marwar is ideal. Mavli is 43 kms from Udaipur City and is waiting for a gauge conversion to be sanctioned between Mavli and Marwar.

24. Gir Safari (Junagarh-Delvada)

The Metre gauge railway from Junagadh to Delvada in Gujarat is an interesting journey through the wooded hills of Gir National Park. It is an extremely slow journey but for the laid back traveller planning for a stopover at Gir and looking to soak in the culture of Saurashtra (western region of Gujarat), this is a journey to look for. The train stops at Sasan Gir station, which leads to start of the National Park. One can also head to Diu using this train passing through the coastline of western Gujarat.

25. Shindavane and Ambale (Pune-Satara)

The ghats of Shindavane are known for the barren and lofty Sahyadri Mountains. The railway cuts deep through the mountains and passes through loose rocks on all sides. This lies in the Pune-Satara section of the Central Railways.

Notes:

• The routes mentioned here can be closed due to various reasons, like gauge conversions, landslides or other unavoidable circumstances.Be well informed about the train availability on the routes before you plan a ride.
• Do check the official website of Indian Railways for all train and route related information: www.indianrail.gov.in
• Image Credits : Wikimedia Commons and IRFCA
• Special thanks to Apurva Bahadur, Jay Balakrishna, Lalam , Mohan Bhuyan, Bharath M,Naren Damodaran and Tushar from IRFCA for their support.

About the Guest Blogger: Arnab Maity is an independent traveller and a documentary photographer. He says, “Creating new trails and following the unknown paths satisfies the traveler in me. I am also an avid history and culture enthusiast looking for stories and structures lost with time.” He runs his own blog at Arnab Maity Travel and Photography.

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Companies for Hiring Self Driven or Chauffeur Driven Vehicles:
Hiring a cab can be quite budget dependant on your travel plans. The difference between public transportation and hired cars is considerable; hence people prefer to use the former. If you still want to explore the roads by driving yourself, here is a list of companies that maybe useful:

1. Auto Riders – This Company gives you the option of self driven or hire cars, for long durations. The services are present in top cities of India. The choice of cars is also wide, so you can opt for something appropriate for the group size.
2. Eco Rent A Car – Another company which has a wider base of cities, offers self driven and hired cars across Tier 1 and 2 cities. The company has a fleet of over 550 cars and is accredited by the ministry of tourism. Long duration hiring options are also present.
3. Avis – Avis is one of the most popular choices of car hiring in India. A professional set up with a wide variety of cars, the company caters to pan Asia region and not only India. You can also book ahead with them before arrival in India.

Most often it is just as economical to hire cars with a driver than drive yourself as the rates are not too different. You also have the advantage that a local may know the ways and can take directions in the local language. Usual rates for AC and Non AC cars differ only by Rs 2 per km. Standard day cabs charge on basis of 8 hrs/ 80 kms or 4 hrs/ 40 kms. Small hatch backs are around Rs 7 – 9/- per km while sedans can be anywhere from Rs 9- 20/- per km. Make sure you fix a price before hand. For overnight stay in a place, the driver is given a fixed sum for stay and food.

Ask at your accommodation for a recommendation of a local driver. Homestay hosts will be happy to arrange a driver for the day for you, and will help you plan your excursion.

Tips on Driving in India:
While it is not recommended, here are some tips if you do decide to drive yourself.

1. Roads – Even there is a colossal road network in India only 60% of it is said to be paved. That too, most often, is not in the best of conditions. While highway roads are well paved, the local roads in town are dotted with pot-holes. Poor infrastructure and negligence is often the cause of accidents in India.
2. Multiple Drivers – It’s almost imperative to have multiple drivers on the Indian roads, so that you can share the wheel. Driving in new cities or countries can be unnerving and overwhelming and thus more exhausting.
3. License & Other Documents – Check if your license is valid internationally before arriving in India. India needs an IDL or an international driving license for you to be on the roads. You also may have to show the car registration papers if asked.
4. Local Rules & Regulations – There are number of one ways and city specific rules other than the right hand drive in India. Get a bearing of the place with a friend or a hired car before venturing to drive on your own. People often jump red lights so be on your guard. Hazards are caused by slower vehicles and cyclists, so cautious and aware of what is around you.
5. Maps – While GPS and Google Maps are reliable, smaller ways and the narrow networks of roads may not be identified quite easily. This is where a friendly chat for directions from locals might be of great use.
6. Road Sense – You will need to get used to the lack of traffic control in some cities. Unpredictability of drivers in India is an infamous yet real hazard that to face.
7. Directions by Public Services – Even though the highways are well signposted with boards and directions, but smaller routes may be difficult to explore.

Planning a trip to India? Check out our selection of homestays for an authentic, great value Indian experience. Our reservations team can assist with arranging car hire with a driver between homestays. Get in touch or leave a comment for help planning your trip.

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Thrissurpuram
One of the grandest events in the state of Kerala, Thrissurpuram is a photographer’s delight. Thirty ornate elephants parade in front of Thissur’s famous Vadakkumnathan Temple in this annual festival and spirited celebrations take over the city. The Thrissurpuram committee makes special arrangement for travellers to watch the proceedings from a special enclosure. If you are visiting here, ensure that you meet them to get a vantage point to shoot the festival.

Ooty Summer Festival
With the Nilgiris range of mountains eagerly awaiting fresh showers in May, the Ooty Summer festival marks the departure of Southern Summer with a flower show in the Botanical Gardens and other cultural activities like boat racing, trekking and culinary events.

Mt. Abu Summer Festival
May is when the state of Rajasthan celebrates its summer festival in the hill station of Mt. Abu. The festival celebrates regional music and dance in venues around the main Lake of the city. Fireworks, qawwalis, roller skating and boat racing all form part of the event programme during this time.

Buddha Purnima
The Eastern part of the country is a popular destination for Buddhist pilgrimages. Buddha Purnima in the month of May brings in a lot of pilgrims to the country. So much so that the Indian railways add extra trains in the regions to accommodate the influx of religious travellers. Bodh Gaya is the place to travel to if you want to see the fervour around this festival.

Banganga Fair
The full moon night of May celebrates the festival of Banganga in honour of Lord Krishna and his beau Radha. People travel across from different parts of the country to Jaipur in Rajasthan, to the Radha-Krishna temple on the banks of the Banganga River. This is a popular place for traders to showcase their wares while crowds take in the festival.

If you would like to join in with one of these Indian festivals in May yourself contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you plan a trip.

Homestays offer the perfect opportunity to get a local insight into festivals and your host family will be happy to provide guidance on the best way to experience the celebrations. Check out our Indian homestay collection.

Many thanks to the photographers who share their images under the Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source.

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Coorg or Kodagu is a fairly vast district and has places tucked away which are worth seeing. Here is a list of places in Coorg to visit.

Madikeri
Madikeri is one of the most popular places in Coorg to base yourself in. The largest town of Coorg, it is situated in the North of the district and is the hub for many visitors. There are plenty of sight-seeing opportunities near Madikeri like the Madikeri Fort, Raja’s Seat, Raja’s Tomb, Omkareshwara temple and the Nisargadhama Forest in the town. A good place to visit the local eating joints for some typical Coorgi food.
Getting There – Madikeri is well connected to all maijor transport hubs by local buses and cabs.

Abbi (Abby) and Iruppu Falls
Often spoken about in one breath, the Abbi and Iruppu Falls are near Madikeri. Gushing with water, especially in the monsoons, these are great picnic spots. Easy trekking trails run from the falls and those interested can veer off into the wilderness. Ensure that you watch out for leeches in the rains though.
Getting There – Regular buses run from Madikeri and Gonikoppal to these falls.

Somwarpet
Many people miss this haven of coffee and spices due to the distance from Madikeri. Somwarpet is in the North East part of the district and takes about two hours to reach from Madikeri. Cardamom, coffee, peppers, oranges, ginger, and other vegetables grow extensively here. Somwarpet lies close to the third highest peak in Coorg after Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri. It is known as Kotebetta and is a delight for trekkers. The other things to see here are Malemalleshwara Betta and the Beelur Gold Club.
Getting There – 42 kms from Madikeri, drive on the almost smooth roads in close to two hours or take us bus from the main stand at Madikeri.

Bylakuppe
The largest Tibetan settlement in South of India, Bylakuppe is spread over four regions just before Coorg. If driving from Bangalore, Bylakuppe is reached just before hitting Kushalnagar. There are a few places to stay here. Most people make a short stop, but it’s worth your while to stay for a night. See the young monks solemnly move about in the large courtyard of the Namdroling Monastery. Many visitors go there only in the mornings, but the lit up monastery in the evening is even more spectacular. Oil lamps are lit slowly through the evening, as monks line up to light the ritualistic lamp after dark.
Getting There – Bylakuppe is 40 kms from Madikeri, around a two hour drive or buses are available from the main stand at Madikeri.

Bhagamandala & Telecauvery
The Cauvery is one of the largest rivers in Karnataka and the convergence of a plethora of bio-diversity and activities. A touch of Kerala can be seen at Bhagamandala and Telecauvery with an ancient temple with a copper roof. Also known as Triveni Sangam, the spot is a semi religious destination, especially in mid October. Steps from here lead to the Brahamagiri Peak from here are essential to climb to get a panoramic view of the lush district.
Getting There – Over an hour’s drive from Madikeri, this is well connected by cabs and buses.

Nagarhole National Park
Nagarhole National Park is en-route from Bangalore. One of the most esteemed game parks in India, Nagarhole is a must for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the South of India. Summers is the best time to visit, when animals roam more freely in search of water. A couple of days make ideal time to soak in the verdant surroundings and make multiple trips into the jungle. These are organised by the government, as private vehicles are restricted to go in.
Getting There – Nagarhole is well connected to Mysore and Madikeri by buses or even by cab.

There are many places in Coorg to explore, check out our Coorg homestay collection to find a base to explore this region from. If you would like to visit Coorg contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.

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

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1. Mehrangarh Fort – An imposing landmark that can be seen from the entire city and is one of the most popular sights to see in Jodhpur. The Mehrangarh Fort is situated on a hill outside the city. It was built by the 15th century King, Rao Jodha but the construction was completed in the 17th century by one of his successors. A mammoth cannon peeps down from the high walls of the Fort from where you can view the city. The Fort also has a cafe and a zip-line adventure.
Opening Times: The Fort is open from 9.00 a.m to 5.00 p.m
Entry Fee: Rs 250/- (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

2. Umaid Bhavan – One of the few living palaces of the country, a part of Umaid Bhavan is retained by the now King, Jai Sigh Ji and part of it has been converted into a luxury hotel. The palace reflects the taste of grandeur that the royalty was so fond of. You can visit here to see the extensive gardens and coffee shop, if you are not staying here.
Opening Times: 09.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m, Closed on Gazetted Holidays.
Entry Fee: Foreign Nationals Rs 50/-, Indian Nationals – Rs 15/- (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

3. Jaswant Thada – Four kilometres from the city, on the way to the Mehrangarh Fort, a cenotaph in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh, is an architectural marvel. Visit here for the excellence in architecture and a good example of preserving history.
Opening Times: 09.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m
Entry Fee: Foreign Nationals Rs 20/-, Indian Nationals – Rs 10/-. Additional charges for cameras. (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

4. Zanana Deodi – The women’s building close to the Mehrangarh Fort is was said to be guarded by eunuchs and where the Queens spent most of their time.
Opening Times: 09.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m
Entry Fee: Rs 250/- Inclusive of camera charge and an audio guide. (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

5. Balsamand Lake – An artificial lake built as a reservoir for the city now serves as a picnic spot in Jodhpur. Though it might be too hot to spread out a picnic basket, visit the nearby Balsamand Lake Palace for a quiet dinner in the gardens. Also try the ‘kesar’ liquor, indigenous to the city.

6. Mandore Gardens and the Million Gods’ Shrine – Only 10 kilometres away from the city, visit the shrine dedicated to a large amount of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Probably one of the few places in India where one can orient themselves towards the colossal variety of divine presence in the country.
Opening Times: 09.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m
Entry Fee: Foreign Nationals Rs 20/-, Indian Nationals – Rs 10/-. Additional charges for cameras. (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

7. Markets of Jodhpur – Textiles, silver jewellery, cotton filled blankets & local shoes are some of the popular souvenirs you can find for sale. Explore the bustling markets of Clock Tower, Sojati Gate, Tripolia Bazaar, Sarafa Bazaar. Lac bangles and leather goods are also make light and interesting gifts for folks back home. Apart from the thrill of bargain filled shopping, these are also great places to photograph and see local life at an intimate perspective.

Homestays are a great place from which to explore the city and your hosts can advise you with further details on what to see in Jodhpur. Check out our Jodhpur homestay collection. If you would like to visit Jodhpur contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.

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Congratulations to Haresh Gidwani from Mumbai (pictured above with his wife) for being the lowest unique bidder and winning this great holiday. Haresh was delighted when we told him he was the winner:

“My wife and I are delighted to learn the news that our bid won the auction and eagerly look forward to planning our trip to Coorg.”

“We have stayed with Mahindra Homestays before and enjoyed the warmth, comfort and hospitality that a homestay offers as well as the opportunity to meet and spend time with the family and to learn their culture.”

It is not too late to be winner! This is the final week of our Homestay Holiday Auction contest which ends on Wednesday. This week you could win a great holiday in Matiana in North India. Place your bid now and you too could be a lucky winner!

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