Sunday, February 25, 2018

5 Popular Street Food Joints in Ludhiana

Ludhiana street food is always seen as one of the best street foods in Punjab. Still, it had to stay in darkness for a very long period of time, may be because people never observed this city from another angle except for a major industrial center in India. Though the street food in Ludhiana is almost similar to other parts of Punjab, yet there are many dhabas and food centers in Ludhiana who are serving the same traditional food in a somewhat unique way. So let's take a trip to these eateries and get to know about the specialties.

Pandit Paranthe Wala Ludhiana Junction

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Parantha is a common breakfast item in North India, but Pandit Paranthe Wala serves it differently. It is a small roadside shop in Chaura Bazaar adjacent to Ludhiana Junction. Here you can relish a variety of paranthas made of real desi ghee (Clarified Butter). Apart from this, it is also famous for its other food items such as Upma, Channa Masala, tea and toast. Pandit Paranthe Wala is one of the oldest restaurants in Ludhiana which has been serving delicious food since 1950. The best part of this restaurant is it is open 24 hours, so whenever you feel you need to satisfy your midnight hunger, come here. The restaurant remains the first choice of the youngster who likes to roam throughout night and relish superb paranthas.

Rawal Pindi Chole Bhature Moti Nagar


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If you want to have the best chole bhature in Ludhiana, come to this very popular food corner of the city. It is situated in the main market of Moti Nagar. Chole Bhature is served here in a true Punjabi-style alongside heavenly chutney. So whenever you get a chance to visit Ludhiana do not forget to try mouth-watering spicy Chole Bhature from this shop.

Lyallpur Sweets Model Town 

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If you are a local you already know this, but if not ask any local for a famous sweet shop in Ludhiana, he will take you to Lyallpur Sweets of Model Town. It is one of the best street food joints in Ludhiana, especially for snacks and sweets. Their Ras Malai is awesome.

 Chawla Vegetarian Restaurant Ghumar Mandi 

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Located on Clock Tower Road, Chawala Vegetarian is one of the famous vegetarian restaurants in Ludhiana. It is a multi cuisine restaurant at very affordable price. Their ice creams are worth to taste.

Friends Dhaba Naulakha Cinema Road 

friends dhaba ludhiana
Friends Dhaba is a perfect place to catch with friends in the city. It is situated opposite the railway station on Naulkha Cinema Road. It is a heaven for veggie lovers. So whenever you feel you need to eat something delicious rush to this one of the popular vegetarian restaurants in Ludhiana. Here was the list of some of the best Street Food Joints in Ludhiana we gathered up as per the reviews of locals. Hope you liked them, please do comment what you think about them.

Thursday, February 22, 2018

Haunted Places in India-Real Ghost Stories


We Indians have grown listening to mysterious tales of Panchatantra. But have you ever experienced any paranormal activities in your surrounding or listened to real ghost story from someone in your village? I know every time when we discuss it, it gives us nightmares and goose bumps. However, In spite of this creepy feeling, we do not resist ourselves pulling toward such stories and want to know about them more and more.

Today we’re here to tell you about the sneakiest and haunted places in India which are associated with some real ghost stories.

Tunnel No 33 Barog, Himachal Pradesh


























No one would have ever thought that a tunnel, which passes one of the most popular mountain trains in India, could be so frightening. Barog is the longest tunnel on the Shimla-Kalka Railway route. According to a story, a British engineer colonel named Barog was appointed for the constructing of this tunnel but unfortunately he could not complete it due to his incorrect judgment and two ends of the tunnel did not meet. Therefore, he was fined with Rs 1. Embarrassed Barog committed suicide.  According to locals, Barog spirit still haunts the place and numerous people have witnessed paranormal activities here. As a result, it is considered one of the most haunted places in Himachal Pradesh, India. The grave of architect Barog is almost 3 km from the actual Barog Railway Station. Read the complete story about Shimla Tunnel No. 33.

 


Khooni Nadi (River of Blood)Rohini, Delhi

haunted places in india

It is Delhi’s most haunted place, which falls in Rohini sector of New Delhi. According to people, anyone who goes near to this river is gulped by the water. Many incidents associated with this river have become the talk of the town. In past few years, many dead bodies have been found here. Even many paranormal investigators have confirmed paranormal activities here.


Writer’s Building Kolkata


Today, it is the secretariat of West Bengal government yet paranormal activities are still going on. No one dares to go here after sunset. There are numerous empty rooms in this building and are haunted from decades. Many people and workers have notice disappearing acts of woman here. Even some politician has noticed and felt some paranormal activities here.

Tower of Silence, Mumbai


Tower of Silence is another most popular haunted place in India situated in Malabar hills. In actual, it is allied with the Parsi ritual of leaving the body after death in open for birds to feed on. They believe that earth and fire are polluted by a dead body. Therefore, they keep dead bodies on these towers of silence. According to locals, many hairs raising paranormal activities are witnessed here at the tower. No one ventures to enter this site after dark.

 

Brij Raj Bhavan Palace, Rajasthan


Once the residence of the princely family of Kota, now Brij Raj Bhavan is considered one of the most haunted places in India. Though it has been converted into a heritage hotel, yet few paranormal activities have been felt here. However, the ghost does not harm anybody as per the reports. According to people, it is the spirit of Major Burton, who was killed along with his two sons in 1857 by Indian sepoys.  



Sunday, February 18, 2018

Rann of Kutch Gujarat- Your Own Moon on Earth

If I say, you can land on the moon without space suit, oxygen and other space necessities. Would you believe it? I am sure; you will call me eccentric or perhaps you would laugh on me. But it is possible in India; there is a place in Gujarat, called Kutch that can make you feel like you’re at moon. In actual, it is a white desert that looks like moon.


rann kutch looks like moon

Places to Visit in Kutch, Gujarat


Kutch is the largest district in Gujarat, in-fact in whole of India that attracts tourists from all over the globe- and why not, it has numerous points of interests along with its world-famous the great Rann of Kutch. So let’s find out something interesting about them.

Great Rann of Kutch

Every year, millions of people from all around the globe, head to Kutch to see this mesmerizing place. The Rann of Kutch is a large area of salt marshes which is parted into Great Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch. In actual, it is a shallow wetland which submerges into water in rainy season and turns into a large salty fields in dry months. Tourists visiting this place feel that they are on moon. In addition to this, it is the venue of the world famous Rann Utsav Festival, which lasts for 3 months and start from 1st November. The festival not only gives you chance to experience full moon on salt deserts but also allows tourists to taste authentic delicious local cuisine, enjoy lovely folk music and receive warm hospitality of lovely localities.

 Wildlife Sanctuary Kutch

flamingo birds in kutch

Along with tourists, thousands of pink flamingo head to this amazing white dessert every winter and live in Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary. In every two minutes you will encounter army personals, unseen wild animals and beautiful flamingos.

Mandvi Beach Bhuj

The beauty of Arabian Sea is unparallel and you can’t better feel it from anywhere then this serene beach. Located on the Northwestern shore, Mandvi beach is perfect place to enjoy vacations with friends and family, especially in winters.

Dholavira Kutch

Want to go back in 4500 years old Indus Valley Civilization era, and explore some unknown interesting facts of that time? If yes, come to Dholavira in kutch. It discloses the 7 different stages of Indus civilization, which starts from Early Harappan to Posturban Harappan B.  According to archaeologist, Harappan was one of the most modern cities of that era. Dholavira is located at khadirbet in Bhachau Taluka of Kutch District.

Kutch Museum

Kutch Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Kutch, Gujarat, which makes tourist familiar with amazing antics of Kutch history. One can see here a wide collection of old fossils, paintings, arms, musical instruments, sculpture, etc.


Timings:
All Days of the Week except Wednesday
9am to 11am
3pm to 5.30pm (Closed on 2nd &4th Saturday)


Aaina Mahal (Mirror Place)

Also known as the Hall of Mirror is a beautiful 18th century palace which was built during the rule of Lakhpatji. It houses a wide collection of local handicrafts from all over the Kutch. The palace has a picturesque architecture that includes beautiful carved doorways, elaborate window boxes and balconies.   

Things to Do in Kutch, Gujarat


Enjoy Local Cuisine- Kutch is paradise for food lovers, who always eager to try something authentic and delicious. Kutch is known for its local dishes that are known as Kutchi cuisine. Although, Kutch people prefer pure vegetarian food, but due rising demand for non-veg has given birth to numerous non-vegetarian restaurants around the city. Almost every restaurant in Kutch serves local Gujarati cuisine and other traditional food items. Some of the popular dishes of Kutch Gujarat are:


Dabeli- The mouthwatering dish is mixture of spicy potato which is made of infusion of peanut, sweet sauce, onion, and pomegranate. The mixture of all of these ingredients is stuffed between bread something similar to burger. In short we can say it is the desi version of burger, but somewhat is different manner, which is more delicious than regular burger for sure.

Lahsooni Aloo Parantha- The tasty appetite is the specialist of Bhuj cuisine. As the name suggests, garlic is the main ingredient of it and is which is used in fresh and crushed garlic along with some local spices. You can take this along with vegetables.

Other Famous Gujarati Cuisines

Ø  Dhokla
Ø  Khakhra
Ø  Thepla
Ø  Garlic Chutney

Shopping in Kutch, Gujarat

gujarat Shopping places

Similar to its culture, the bazaars (markets) of Kutch are colorful. Along with globally known white dessert, Kutch is famous for artistic handicrafts as well. If you’re visiting this place during Rann Utsav, do not forget to India’s finest artifacts made by locals. Most of the people in Kutch are in the business of craft.  Sarees, Lehangas, bedsheet and varieties of handwork embroideries are worth to buy here.

Some of the Major Markets Around Kutch
  1. Bhujodi Market
  2. Dhamkada Market
  3. Nirona Market
  4. Bhachua Market
So, this year amaze your family members, take them to Rann Utsav, India’s most happening festival of India.

Saturday, February 17, 2018

Manali-Plan Your Trip into The Eye Pleasing Valleys

Manali Tourist Places

Hello friends! Today, I am taking you to a majestic Himalayan resort town which will not only refresh your mood, but also lift your adrenaline rush by offering you some of the best adventurous activities in India.

Friends, I am talking about Manali, one of the most popular Indian hill stations situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The beautiful town is encircled with lofty Himalayan Mountains and the lush green forests. Apart from this, its rustic culture, colorful markets, adventure sports and delicious local cuisine are some of the major reasons that attract tourists to visit this amazing destination. So, I would suggest you to make aweekend trip to this wonderful spot. It is a perfect tourist destination to visit with friends and family and is budget-friendly too
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Places to Visit in Manali



Friends, it is important to plan in advance to make your Manali sightseeing more wonderful and interesting. It’s each and every place is worth watching. So here I am starting with pilgrimage sites in Manali and its surrounding.

Hadimba Devi Temple:


Actually, the temple is an ancient cave dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima. The temple is built in pagoda structure type, which it makes somewhat different to others temples in India. The place is associated with Mahabharata. It is said that the whole of the region was ruled by a demon who was the brother Hidimbi Devi. During their exile, Pandavas were passing through this place and on the request of locals, Bhima Killed demon and married his sister. Hidimbi and Bhima fell in love with each other. After marriage, Hadimba gave birth to son named Ghatotkachh. Wooden Carvings inside the temple are worth watching.


Key Points

-Temple is accessible by road; you can take your vehicle up-to temple’s stairs.
- To avoid annoying traffic, park your vehicle a KM. behind and walk to temple enjoying nature, if you can.
- Get your pictures clicked in traditional dresses, which are offered by nearby shopkeepers.
- Very important thing- To avoid heavy queue rush in temple, visit temple early morning.

Manali Bazaar:


Manali has its own beautiful bazaar that is parted into three major parts Mall road market, Old Manali market and Tibetan Market. So, if you want to buy a souvenir to keep your Manali trip memorable, Manali Bazaar gives you lots of options.

Key Points:
-Hand-woven carpets, shawls, rugs are worth to buy in Mall Road Market
-If you’re decorative items, you can also buy Tibetan artifacts and souvenirs from Tibetan Market.

Manali Sanctuary:

Friends, if you’re on long vacation, then you have lots options around Manali, but if you have to limited time and want to visit best of Manali, head to its amazing sanctuary. Manali sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Manali in one day. It’s just a 2 kms distance from the main Manali where you can seek pleasure in Himalayan flora and fauna. 

Key Points:
-Sometimes you may have to go 10-15 kms ahead inside the park to see animals, depends on your luck.

Solang Valley:

Friends, as I said above, Manali is equally best place for adventure lovers along with nature lover; Solang valley is the place where you can enjoy ice skating and paragliding. Few Ski agencies are set up around the place which operates during winters. However, you can enjoy Para-gliding, horse riding, and ropeway all year around.

Key Points

For ice skating January is the best time
You can also head to an oldest temple Anjaani Mahadeve, located 2.5 Kms from here.
Recommended for honeymooners

Jogini Falls:

I personally liked this place so much in Manali. I find myself very close to Mother Nature. Serene atmosphere, natural sound of waterfall I think you can count yourself lucky, once you’re here. Sit near to this eye-pleasing waterfall and enjoy tiny droplets of water on your face.
-Best place for meditation as very less people go here.
-You need to trek 1.5 km from Vashishta temple to reach here.
-There is no shop for food here, so keep some snacks and water bottles with you.

Manikaran Shahib:

The sacred place is approximately 35 kms from Kullu and 80 kms from Manali. The founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Ji came to this place during third Udasi. There is a huge Gurudwara here on the right bank of river Parvati. Every day thousands of devotes come here to seek blessing.

Key Points
-Don’t forget to have bath in hot and holly springs of Manikaran before going for prayer
- Relish the mouth watering langar (God’s food).

Rohtang Pass:

32 Miles away from Manali on Eastern Pir Panjal Range, Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass that connects the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. It is located on an elevation of 13,051 ft that remains open only from May to November.

Key Points

- With enchanting and picturesque landscapes you may also face traffic in as lots of people head to this place in season. I would suggest you head to this place as early as you can in morning
- If you’re going through a local taxi service, beware they may insist you to rent local winter clothes. They would tell you that Rohtang pass is too cold; yes it is cold but not more than their intention.

Vashishta Temple:

It is almost 4000 years old ancient temple in old Manali. The beautiful temple is dedicated to Rishi Vashistha, one of the seven sages of Hindu.

Key Points
-       You can have an exceptional view of the Beas River from the temple.
-       Bathing in hot water springs is an amazing experience here.

What to Eat in Manali



Friends, visiting Manali and not having its local street food, is like you’re enjoying half of Manali trip. Believe me the town gives best mouthwatering authentic local food that you would hardly get in any 5 star hotels.

Trout Fish:

If you love to eat Non Veg trout fish is fantastic to have here, which is caught from the local river. The Johnson Café is a perfect place to have it where it is served with roasted almond sauce.

Italian Pizza:

Italian Pizza is another best food to eat in Manali. There are lots of small-big restaurants in Mall Road that serve Italian Pizza. I would personally recommend you to go to IL Forno Restaurant, which is located on Hadimba Road. It is run by a foreigner lady. The best part of their pizza is they use everything organic from their own garden.

Dham:

Dham is an authentic food of Manali that is cooked during wedding ceremonies in Himachal Pradesh. It includes rice, curry, and sweetened rice. There are many food eateries in Mall road that offer this amazing, mouth watering dish.


Chinese and Tibetan Food:

Chinese and Tibetan food is worth to taste in Manali. Some shops are really good, especially which are far from Mall road. May be because of they have less customer; they make it from their heart.

I hope you liked this post. Please do comment for your suggestions and stay connected to read our next travel blog.