2024: 5 Visa-free destinations for Indians

 

 2024: Visa-free destinations for Indians

Thailand

From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Phuket, Thailand is a popular destination for Indians and has a lot to offer to make your New Year's celebrations unforgettable.

The Indian government recently declared that, starting on November 10, 2023, and ending on May 10, 2024, holders of Indian passports will not need a tourist visa to enter Thailand. Travelers from India now find Thailand even more alluring as a result of this decision.

Vietnam

 Vietnam is yet another popular destination during New Year's, with direct flights available at lower prices from major Indian cities. Travelers can begin their adventure in the energetic capital city of Hanoi, where they can take a leisurely stroll around the Old Quarter and experience the lively ambiance of the street food lanes. Moreover, visitors have the option of a three-hour strolling culinary tour, during which they can try more than fifteen different foods and beverages.

Srilanka

Sri Lanka, an island country in South Asia, is surrounded by the blue waters of the Indian Ocean and attracts many Indian tourists during the new year. The capital city, Colombo, is bustling with activity as people from different countries come together to celebrate the new year, enjoying fireworks at Galle Face Green and exploring the lively year-end street markets.

This year, Indian tourists have the opportunity to travel to Sri Lanka without a visa and remain in the country for a maximum of one month.

Malayasia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is a popular tourist destination known for its lively nightlife all year round. On New Year's Eve, the city bursts with fireworks, lively festivities, live music, and street gatherings at popular venues such as KLCC Park and Bukit Bintang. Visitors can also explore the UNESCO-listed George Town in Penang or enjoy a tranquil retreat on Langkawi Island.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced that starting from December 1, Indian passport holders will be allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for up to 30 days. While in the country, visitors will have the opportunity to sample Malaysia's renowned cuisine, such as nasi lemak and satay.

Kenya

Kenya Now Offers Visa Free Entry for Indians Kenya has announced that foreign tourists will no longer need to obtain a visa to visit the country from January 2024. President William Ruto of Kenya announced that the country will no longer require a visa for foreign tourists to travel to the country. Iran has also removed visa requirements for visitors from 33 countries including India.

Puri - Sri Jagannath Dham

Puri

Puri, located in the eastern state of Odisha, India, is a captivating destination known for its rich cultural heritage and religious significance. The city is renowned for the Jagannath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra.

**Jagannath Temple:** This iconic temple, with its towering spires and intricate architecture, attracts millions of devotees and tourists. The annual Rath Yatra, or chariot festival, is a spectacle where colossal chariots carry the deities through the streets, drawing crowds from across the globe.

**Golden Beach:** Puri boasts a pristine coastline, and the Golden Beach is a major attraction. Visitors can enjoy serene sunrises, engage in water sports, or take a leisurely stroll along the expansive shoreline.

**Konark Sun Temple:** A short drive from Puri leads to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Konark Sun Temple. This architectural marvel is dedicated to the Sun God and is renowned for its intricate carvings depicting various aspects of life.

**Art and Handicrafts:** Puri is a hub for traditional arts and crafts. The city is famous for its Pattachitra paintings, appliqué work, and intricate silver filigree. Visitors can explore local markets to purchase these unique handicrafts as souvenirs.

**Culinary Delights:** The local cuisine offers a delectable experience with its emphasis on fresh seafood. Don't miss out on trying the iconic Puri Mahaprasad, the temple's sacred food offering, and savor other regional delicacies.

**Cultural Festivals:** Puri hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, providing a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of Odisha. The Beach Festival and the Puri Beach Carnival are popular events that showcase the region's cultural diversity.

**Chilika Lake:** Located nearby, Chilika Lake is Asia's largest brackish water lagoon. It's a haven for bird watchers, home to migratory birds, and offers boat rides to explore its tranquil waters.

In summary, Puri offers a unique blend of spirituality, art, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a culturally enriching and visually stunning experience.

Parswanath- Also known as Shikharji, Sammed Shikhar

 Destination Parswanath  

Parashanath Pahar, 4480 feet above sea level, is the highest mountain in Chotanagpur Malvumi- Jharkhand state and one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Jains. Of the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism, 23 (20 in Dvim) attained nirvana on this mountain. The 23rd Tirthankara was Parswanath Swami. After him the name of this hill is Parshanath Pahar. Also known as Shikharji, Sammed Shikhar. This hill is worshiped as Marang Buru by Santal community. This mountain tour starts from Madhuban, a small town down the hill. Madhuban is the gateway to this hill.  

Let's see what you need to know when visiting Pareshnath ------  

Location:- Madhuban is 24 km from Parshanath station in Jharkhand and 74 km from Dhanbad city. 

 Travel:- There are many trains from Howrah, Sealdah and Kolkata stations to Parasnath station. Madhuban can be reached by a shared car (Taka 70 per head) or reserve car (Taka 500) from the station. 

 Accommodation :- There are many Jain Dharamshalas for staying in Madhuban apart from two to four hotels. Room rent is roughly between 500 taka to 3000 taka. You will get all types of AC and non-AC rooms. 

Food:- Food is provided in Dharamshala. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. No food after 6 PM in Jain Dharamshala. (Jains do not eat after sunset). So if you want to eat at night, you have to eat outside the hotel.  

Now the main thing i.e. hill circumambulation trek :- 

  Starting from Madhuban, walking around the hills and returning to Madhuban, the total distance is 27 km. Starting the journey from Madhuban, one will first read Kalikund, Gandharva Nala and then Shitalanala (5km). From this Shitalanala the road splits into two - one towards Parshnath Swami Tonk.

 Only those who visit Parshnath Swami Tonk will take this road. The road is quite steep. Those who do the whole Parikrama will take the straight road from Shitalanala. Reach Gautam Swami Tonk, 9 km from Madhuban. This is the middle point of the hill circuit. There are 30 tonk/or samadhi temples all over the hill. These tonks are invincible. 

Each tonk has stone-carved footprints of various Tirthankaras. And there is a temple- named Jalmandir. Only here there are idols. Gautam Swami Tonk has 19 tonks to the east and 11 tonks to the west. Jal Mandir is 1 km south of Gautam Swami. 

 From Chandraprabhu Swami Tonk in the east to Parshanath Swami Tonk in the west--the road is about 9km to visit these 30 tonks and water temples. This road is uphill and downhill.  

After visiting all the tonks, one has to reach at the very end the 23rd Tirthankar Parshnath Swami Tonk, one of the attractions located at the highest point of the hill. Uttarai Road from Parshnath Swami Tonk to Madhuban is 9 km.  

It will take about 12-14 hours to complete this 30km road through mixed nature hilly forest (not in a hurry, slowly, healthy, with food and drink, rest). 

If you start walking at 3/4 in the morning, you can reach Madhuban by 7 in the evening.  

1) There are sometimes food stalls on the road. Sometimes you can see Hanuman, a group of monkeys having family with the trees. 

 2) Overnight accommodation on the hill is one. Beside Gautam Swami Tonka. If one wants to spend the night on the hill, permission must be obtained from the Jain Shetambar Society at Madhuban. You can stay only if that permission is shown above.

  3) If one does not want to walk, one can book a doli/bike from Madhuban. If you go by bike, Parshanath Swami will drop you near Parswanath Tonk. Now you have to walk the rest of the circuit.  

Dolly of two types:- Plane Dolly (2500 Taka) and Kursi Dolly (4500 Taka). Can bargain. This Parshanath hill is very sacred and beautiful to both pilgrims and travelers.

RAM MANDIR Inaguration on 22nd January,2024

RAM  MANDIR Inaguration on 

22nd January,2024

The Ram Mandir is a Hindu tabernacle that's under construction in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India. It's located at the point of Ram Janmabhoomi, the hypothecated motherland of Rama, a top deity of Hinduism. The tabernacle is being erected by a Hindu group under the supervision of Larsen & Toubro and other experts, and is anticipated to be completed on January 22, 2024.
 

 The Ram Mandir has been a major electoral issue for the Bharatiya Janata Party( BJP), which led the Ram Mandir movement along with other Hindu right- sect associations, claiming that the first Mughal emperor Babar had razed a Hindu tabernacle in Ayodhya to construct a synagogue over it in the 16th century. The deification of Hindu god Ram and Sita at the disputed point started when their icons were installed in 1949. 

 
 In 2019, the Supreme Court of India delivered an amicable verdict to give the disputed land to Hindus for a tabernacle of Ram, while Muslims would be given land away to construct a synagogue . The court substantiated a report from the Archaeological Survey of India( ASI) as substantiation suggesting the presence of a structure beneath the demolished Babri Masjid, that was supposed to benon-Islamic.
 

 The foundation gravestone laying form for the inception of the construction of  Ram Mandir was performed on August 5, 2020, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The tabernacle, presently under construction, is being supervised by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

 

 

All About Kedarnath Tour - Part-1

How to go?

                                    Registration is mandatory. Both online and offline. If you want to do offline, you have to reach Sonprayag. (Online registration is better) Website for online registration Click here 

                                    

From Sonprayag, walk 400 meters to Gaurikund jeep stand. Get here as soon as possible. Cover your luggage with plastic. Otherwise, you will get wet while going to Gaurikund. The car will pass under the fountain to two places. The driver will put the luggage on top of the car. After getting down at Gaurikund, you have to walk 500 meters to come to Gaurikund Bazar. All the hotels are here. All the hotels have cloakrooms for storing luggage.  

                                   There is no need to come to Gaurikund if you go to Kedarnath by helicopter. Heli service starts from Guptakashi, Phata and Sershi. Booking : Click here 

                                   You have to walk from Gaurikund without the helicopter. Sticks, raincoats are available at all shops. 

                                    If you don't want to walk, you have to take a horse / pittu / doli for this facility. Booking is done from Gaurikund. There is a government office for horse booking at 500 meters walk. Horses will go up to Kedarnath base camp Mild uphill and downhill road from Gaurikund to Bhimbali/Rambara..

                                  Mandakini River will be on the right side of the road. After crossing the river bridge at Bhimbali, the road is quite steep and a bit of a long uphill road. If you cross the river through Rambara, the road will be a little shorter. Rambara is 1 km from Bhimbali. 

                                 After crossing the Mandakini River at Bhimbali/Rambara, the road is steep all the way to Kedarnath Base Camp. If it is too high, there is a 100m down road. The last trail is very tough. 

 

 Where to eat?

                            There are many food stalls on the street. But the higher you go from Gaurikund, the higher the price of food, the higher the price of water. Those who are walking can rent a horse or pittu in the middle of the road if it is inconvenient. You have to bargain. 

                           Pujo Dali starting from Rs50 . Have to stand in line. Coupon/Ticket should be collected from temple office if going to VIP line.

   

Where will you stay?

                            There are many hotels around the Kedarnath temple. There are government guest houses near the helipad and in the Kedarnath base camp. There are many tents in the base camp. There are many hotels to eat. Swargarohini complex has a hot water dispenser for consumption. You can take hot water there for Free. 

 

 Some important points:- 

                          The road from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple is written as 16km but the road will probably be 22km+. Kedarnath is by no means a normal travel destination. It is absolutely High Altitude Trek.. Moderate Trek. While enjoying the natural beauty of Durgam Himalayas, walk slowly and at your own pace. No competition. 

There is a crowd of people on the road as well as a crowd of horses. The whole road is full of horse/dung. Although it is being cleaned sometimes. 

  Expensive place so take more than what you budget for.  

Those who are determined to walk - do not be afraid. Practice walking for a month before departure. Eat properly. Keep yourself fit. Prepare physically and mentally. Otherwise, you will have to get enough speed.  

With a healthy body, mind and hands, go ahead and let the sound of "Jai Kedar" sound. I say again, walk on the road carefully, slowly, according to your own convenience. It is not a competition. keep this in mind and proceed. You will reach your destination Kedarnath.

DZOUKU VALLEY NAGALAND

DZOUKU VALLEY, nestled on the border of Nagaland and Manipur in northeastern India, is a breathtaking expanse of rolling hills and lush greenery. Known for its diverse flora and fauna, the valley is a trekker's paradise, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

During the summer, the valley is adorned with a carpet of vibrant flowers, creating a picturesque landscape that attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The clear streams meandering through the valley add to its tranquility, providing a serene backdrop for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

The Dzukou Lily, a rare and enchanting flower, is a highlight of the valley's floral wealth. Trekking trails, often starting from the base in Viswema village, lead adventurers through dense forests and open meadows, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.

Campers can set up tents at designated camping sites and experience the valley's beauty under the starlit sky. The Dzukou Valley, with its unique blend of scenic charm and biodiversity, stands as a testament to the pristine beauty found in the northeastern region of India.

Arranging a trek to Dzukou Valley involves several steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

1. **Permits:**

   - Obtain necessary permits from the State Forest Department or relevant authorities in Nagaland. Check the current regulations and requirements for trekking in Dzukou Valley.

2. **Travel Plans:**

   - Plan your journey to Nagaland, considering factors like transportation to the base village (commonly Viswema), accommodation, and local transportation.

3. **Guide and Trekking Partners:**

   - Hiring a local guide is advisable for navigating the trails and understanding the area. Connect with reliable trekking agencies or locals who can assist you.

   - If trekking solo, inform someone about your plans and ensure you have trekking companions for safety.

4. **Trekking Gear:**

   - Pack appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, a backpack, sleeping bag, and essentials like a first aid kit, water bottles, and snacks.

5. **Weather Check:**

   - Be aware of the weather conditions during your planned trekking dates. Dzukou Valley experiences different seasons, and preparation should consider the climate during your visit.

6. **Accommodation:**

   - Arrange accommodation at the base village or nearby towns. Ensure reservations, especially during peak trekking seasons.

7. **Transportation:**

   - Confirm transportation options to reach the base village and back. Whether by road or air, plan your itinerary accordingly.

8. **Environmental Responsibility:**

   - Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Respect the local environment, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Carry back all your waste and dispose of it properly.

9. **Health and Fitness:**

   - Ensure you are physically fit for the trek. Consult a healthcare professional if needed. Acquaint yourself with the challenges of high-altitude trekking.

10. **Emergency Plans:**

    - Have a contingency plan for emergencies. Carry contact information for local authorities, emergency services, and your embassy.

11. **Local Customs and Etiquette:**

    - Familiarize yourself with the local customs and show respect for the indigenous communities. Seek permission before taking photographs of people.

Remember, preparation is key to a successful trek. Research thoroughly, stay informed, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Dzukou Valley responsibly.

VARANASI

KASHI- BANARAS- VARANASI

 
 Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is a megacity located on the banks of the Ganges swash in northern India. It's one of the oldest continually inhabited metropolises in the world, with a history that dates back to the 11th century BCE. The megacity is considered one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism and is a major center for passage and religious tourism.
 
 Varanasi is notorious for its ghats, which are a series of way leading down to the swash. The ghats are used for bathing, washing clothes, and performing religious rituals. The megacity is also home to several ancient tabernacles, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva.
 

 The megacity has a rich artistic heritage and is known for its music, cotillion , and literature. It has been a center for literacy and education for centuries and is home to the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest domestic universities in Asia.
 
 Varanasi is also notorious for its silk sarees and brocades, which are handwoven by original crafters. The megacity has a thriving crafts assiduity, with products ranging from fabrics to woodwork to metalwork.
 
 still, some of the popular sightseer lodestones include
 If you ’re planning a trip to Varanasi.
 Kashi Vishwanath Temple A notorious tabernacle devoted to Lord Shiva.
 Dashashwamedh Ghat One of the oldest and most important ghats in Varanasi.
 Sarnath A near city that's home to several Buddhist monuments and tabernacles.
 Ramnagar Fort A major stronghold located on the banks of the Ganges swash.
 
 
 
 
 
 How to go Varanasi from Delhi?

Varanasi how to reach?

 
 varanasi distance To travel from Delhi to Varanasi, you have the ensuing options
 
 By aeroplane
 You can take a flight from Delhi( DEL) to varanasi airport ( VNS).
 By train You can take a train from New Delhi to Varanasi railway station (BSB jn)
 By machine/ Auto You can take a machine/ Auto from Delhi to Varanasi.
 
 The stylish option is Flight and Train.
 

 What's the stylish time to visit Varanasi? 

 The stylish time to visit Varanasi is from October to March when the rainfall isn't so hot and it's dry. November to February is the peak season, when crowds and advanced prices are anticipated. Rainy season is from late June to September. It's still possible to travel Varanasi in these months, but get ready for the moisture and rain. 

 
 

 What are some popular road foods in Varanasi?

 

 Varanasi is notorious for its road food, which is a gastronomic paradise, offering a different array of flavors and delectables that can tantalize any food nut’s taste kids. Then are some popular road foods in Varanasi
 
 Kachori A deep- fried confection that tantalizes the senses with its crisp texture and scrumptious paddings.
 Puri Sabzi A popular breakfast dish conforming of deep- fried chuck
 served with a racy potato curry.
 Chhena Dahi Vada A sweet and savory dish made with lentil galettes, yogurt, and cabin rubbish.
 Paan A popular after- mess digestive made with betel leaves, areca nuts, and colorful spices.
 Malaiyyo A sweet dish made with milk, saffron, and sugar, outgunned with pistachios and almonds.
 Thandai A refreshing drink made with milk, almonds, and colorful spices, served cold.
 Baati Chokha A traditional dish from Bihar, conforming of baked dough balls served with a racy vegetable curry.
 
 still, you might want to consider taking a road food walking stint to sample some of the megacity’s stylish road food, If you ’re planning a trip to Varanasi.
 

 
 
 I hope this information helps. Let me know if you have any other questions!