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Sunday, February 9, 2020

Puri Darshan

 

Place:-                         Puri

Hotel Booked:-           Puri

How to Reach: Puri is well connected by railways. Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport.

Place to Visit:

Day-1,Morning

 

Jagannath Temple:  It is quite evident that your first destination during the Puri trip would be the Puri Jagannath Temple. While the temple remains flooded with devotees during the Rath Yatra, it is not necessarily one of the tourist places in Puri meant solely for the religious minded travelers. The temple gives a fascinating insight into India’s ancient temple architecture. Built back in the 11th century by the king of Kalinga, Chodaganga, this is the most revered Lord Jagannath temple in the world. This huge temple is decorated with intricate carvings throughout and has a mammoth 20 feet wall. There are more than 120 smaller shrines inside the temple’s complex. Puri Jagannath temple has one of the largest kitchens in the world and this space is needed to cook 56 different dishes (as a part of the Mahaprashad) every day! The dishes are not only cooked for the Lord, this Prashad can be booked by thousands of devotees. While millions of devotees would be visiting the Puri Jagannath temple during Rath Yatra festivities, even on an average day the temple is thronged by more than 2000 devotees!

  • Timings: 5 AM – 11 PM
  • Tip: The Prashad offered to Lord Jagannath can be booked from the Temple Trust’s office in the early hours of the morning. The earlier you visit, the better it would be!

 

Raghurajpur Craft Village: A mere twenty minute drive from Puri and I am ushered into a world of paint and colour in a small hamlet located barely 15 kms from Puri. Along the route you will come across groves of coconut, palm, mango and jack fruit apart from a view of rural Orissa.A Crafts Village , Raghurajpur is home to over 100 craftsmen who have been creating and preserving the 900 year old craft of patachitra, which literally means scroll paintings on cloth. Once you reach the village, you would be welcomed by 100 homes of artisans. The houses might be small but they are beautifully decorated with mural paintings. All the ancient arts and crafts of Orissa, including the 900 year old Patachitra, are practiced in this village. You can watch the artisans at work, talk to them and learn a few tricks from them. Patachitra is the real show stealer among the crafts items on display at Raghurajpur Crafts Village. This ancient craft form depicts mythological stories which are drawn so precisely that they are no less than visual depictions!

  • Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
  • Tip: These artisans have been preserving the local art since ages and it’s only wise to support them by buying a few pieces of their work from the village.

 

Puri Beach: Reach before sun set: There are 3 main beaches in Puri, Swrgadwar beach – this is the oldest beach area with fully crowded; Light House Beach – this is just next to the Puri light house, long stretch of sand and very good for bath, but now days it’s quite crowded. Golden Beach – this is the new beach area and less crowded, also good for bath.

Known for its gigantic waves, Puri beach is one of the most appealing reasons for tourists to head to this ever bustling town. Right after you have shopped to your heart’s fill, you can head to the beach for a bath. As mentioned before, Puri beach is characterized by gigantic waves and a slope at the beach (which can get quite steep. The beach is a lively place to be at, where you can either take a bath in the waters or relax at the shores watching different people doing myriad things. Puri beach is also the best destination to end your first day’s sightseeing, with a mesmerizing sunset view.

  • Trivia: During the months of November-December, Puri Beach Festival is organized. The festival features brilliant sand arts by the famous artist, Padma Shri Sudarshan Pattnaik.
  • Tip: As mentioned there is a steep slope at the Puri beach, so be careful while you take a bath.

 

 

Day 2

You can go for the local sight seen covering below mentioned plces. AC/ NON AC buses are available that can be booked previous day. Taxi can be also booked but record the whole conversation and keep it handy so that it can be used if there is any  dispute at the end.

 

Konark Sun Temple: Konark Sun Temple, located 35 KM away from Puri, is a not-to-miss attraction near Puri. This 13th century temple is known for its unique shape. The temple’s architecture resembles the chariot ridden by the Sun god. The chariot is driven by seven horses and has twelve intricately carved wheels on its sides. The walls of this temple are beautified with carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, plants, flowers, animals, etc. Each year during February, the temple witnesses a cultural extravaganza when the Konark Dance Festival is organized at the temple premises.

  • Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
  • Tip: Leave for Konark early in the morning to experience the rays of the sun falling directly on this beautiful structure.

 

Lingaraj temple:This is a very old and famous temple is Odisha.

 

Dhabalgiri: this place is for peace and clam, as it’s a Buddhas pagoda. A very well known place and pure white structure, must visit it

 

Nandan Kanan – this is a very famous zoo in India. Some sources are claiming, this is the best zoo in India. I love this place, this is very famous for his royal Bengal tiger and white tiger. Bags or food items are not allowed inside, but you can take your water bottle with you. Food joints are available inside of this park with limited food option. Request you to, please behave like a human here and not to tease any animal.

 

Evening: View the amazing sunset at Chilka Lake

Chilka Lake, one of the largest brackish water lagoons in the world, is a famous Orissa tourism destination. And the sunset cruise on the Chilka Lake is the perfect way to pull curtains on your 2 day trip to Puri. Cruises on the lake are available from the jetty at Satpada village. The waters turn into numerous shades of red during the sunset hours and it’s not just a delight to the eyes but also to the mind. If you are lucky, you might even spot some Dolphins during your cruise! Boats take you to the Rajhans Island, where you can spot a lagoon on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other. It’s a sight to behold and you must not miss out on this experience.

  • Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
  • Cruise Costs: INR 80-250 (depending on the distance covered)
  • Tip: Chilka Lake is quite famous for its pearls. So, if you can identify the true pearls then go ahead and purchase some pearls here.

Note:-

Famous:-

Place to Stay:-

Best Time to Visit:- Winter months – October to February – are best time to visit as temperatures will be bearable. Summers will be very hot and humid.

Eat:- Khaja,

Purchase:-

Do:-

Next:-  Go back to home

Wednesday, January 1, 2020

Goa Tour and Murdeshwar Temple Darshan

Place :-                        Goa

Time of Arrival :-     Saturday,7.00am

Time of Departure:-  Monday 8.00 pm

Hotel Booked:-           Calangute (Saturday 7.00am to Sunday 11.00am)

                                    Hut/Hotel/Vila at Agoda/ Palolem

(Sunday 12.00am to Tuesday 11.00am)

 

How to Reach: Madgaon (MAO) and Vasco Da Gama (VSG) are the two major railway stations that connect Goa with rest of the country.

You can also go by airport and nearest airport is Dabolim

 Place to Visit:

Goa can be divided into three parts – North Goa, South Goa and Panji.

In one sentence, North Goa is for bachelor, South Goa is for Couple and Family. Panaji is the capital with plenty of old world charm. But who lives in Panaji when holidaying in Goa.

North Goa is for those who love to party and want to taste every pleasure Goa offers to tourists.

Almost everything is available. Multiple accommodation options, budget hostels, central bus station, public transport, bike rentals, car rentals, bustling nightlife, cheap and quirky cafes. Nice beach, but the beach is super crowded.

South Goa is quieter, cleaner and definitely way more peaceful from the hustle & bustle of North Goa. South Goa is that part of Goa that not many people talk about, and so you tend to miss it in the mix. It doesn’t belong to the typical Goa stereotype of loud music, parties, clubs and a line of restaurants catering more to the rest of India than offering authentic Goan cuisine. In south Goa, Colva, Benaulim, and Varca has multiple luxury resorts and upscale stay options. Further down south, Agonda and Patnem has better tourist infrastructures. Offbeat, serene place, less crowded, beautiful lagoon style beaches, authentic local experience. Good for Honeymoon Copules But not safe for Sole Girl/Girl Group :. Further away from central location. Long drive from airport/train station. Pricier in some cases.

 Back in 1510 the Portuguese took Goa as their own and set it up as an important control centre for the spice trade. You can still see the Portuguese influence today. The Portuguese controlled Goa until 1961, when India took over.

 Mosquito and insect repellents are must when you are packing for Goa.

 Let’s start to visit Goa

 North Goa Beach

 Time: 10am to 04pm

 

Calangute Beach: Titled as the ‘Queen of all Beaches’, Calangute Beach is one of the most crowded beaches in North Goa. This largest beach of Goa has all the characteristics of being a heaven for all the beach lovers. Parasailing, surfing and water skiing are some of the thrilling activities, which make it an exciting place for all adventure enthusiasts.

 

Baga Beach: Quiet in the morning and happening at night, Baga Beach is one of the beaches to visit in North Goa not only for youngsters but also for the elders. The exciting nightlife filled with parties and pubs makes it a perfect destination for the party animals. Dolphin rides are a must to experience while you are here. Don’t miss out on exploring the vibrant Saturday night market, Mickey’s Market, which is just 11 minutes away from Baga Beach.

 

Note:- Baga and Calangute Beach run into each other, with no clear boundary. Try to do all water sport activity.

 

Time: 5.00pm to 9pm

 

Take taxi and move to Mandovi river, Panji for 1-hour Evening Cruise. One of the main attractions in Goa are the evening cruises. Enjoy an evening sail along the Mandovi river, packed with entertainment, folk song and dance performances; giving one the real feel of Goa's traditional culture. Also bask in the panoramic view of Panjim from the top-most deck of the cruise as the ship passes by busy markets and beautiful old buildings,  making it an unforgettable experience for all. You can book Cruise online but is easily available if you reach near to River also, If you are with family, select the Cruise selectively.

 

Timing; 10.00 pm to 3.00 am :

 

Only for Bachelors: Spend on any Night Club. You can also roam near Baga or Calangute for night life and party . You can also visit to Tito Night Club which is near from Baga Beach.

 

Timing 10.00 am to 12.00 pm and  2.00 pm to 6 pm

I will advise to go to Baga Beach/ Calangute Beach to complete all water activity if left first. Fresh Up in hotel. Leave the hotel after hiring a taxi, ask him to make you to visit local sightseeing in North Goa (some of them are mentioned below, Remember all beaches are almost same but you must visit the two fort. Try to cover maximum at minimum cost) and then drop you at South Goa Hotel

 

Chapora fort: Many movie shot here

 

Anjuna Beach: Trippy music, wild tides, and the hippie atmosphere, that’s how Anjuna Beach is to be described. Not only is it one of the top beaches in North Goa, but also a treasure trove for all the foodies and shopaholics.

 

Candolim Beach: Witnessing the most crowds during the month of December, Candolim Beach is where the happening SUNBURN festival, a trendy collaboration of music, dance, food and shopping, takes place. This not only is awaited by the young Indians but also by foreigners. During other months, its tranquility is a treat for the soul. The swinging palm trees, the white sand and the crystal clear water- here the mornings are very relaxing. Located 5.2 km away from Candolim Beach is Aguada Fort, which is a popular tourist attraction.

 

Aguada Fort:  Many movie shot here (It is tank which has been made for store drinking water)

 

Dolphin spotting trip is very popular on your visit to Goa. You hear lot about dolphins in Arabian sea. There are many different location where one can spot live crocodile jumping around you. One such location is near Fort Aguada. Dophin spotting trip starts from Candolim area. (Not advisable as mostly you are not going to see any Dolphin but yes they will make you to see of the Movie Shooting Area )

 

Vagator Beach: Vagator Beach is the northernmost beach of Bardez Taluka, Goa. It is located on the opposite bank of the Chapora River from Morjim in Pernem.The roads in Vegator Beach are tree lined just like you see in the movies and it is glorious to just zoom around on two wheller. (Not necessary to visit)

 

Dona Paul Beach: Named after Dona Paula de Menezes, the daughter of a viceroy of the colonial era, Dona Paul Beach has a famous story revolving around it. Forbidden by her father to never meet her lover (who was a fisherman’s son) again, she jumped off from the cliff to the Arabian Sea and killed herself on this beach. Besides the story, the Dona Paul Beach is also popular during the sports festival in November where a plethora of competitions such as cycle and water scooter race and surfing competitions are held. An impressive view of the Mormugao harbor, edged by the palm trees and casuarina woods makes it a paradise for nature buffs. (Not necessary to visit)

 

Morjim: (Not necessary to visit)

 

Arambol Beach: Arambol beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa, bordering Keri Beach to the north and Mandrem Beach to the south. It is also called Russian Beach. If you wish to stay at North Goa. It can be a royal place to stay. Book a hut and stay there for full day. Walk along side beach to reach Sweet Lake after Kalcha Beach. After a walk, one can find a small hill where you can find an Banyan Tree for all fun. During your route you will find Multani Mitti. There is standard night life.

 

Se Cathedral: Se Cathedral is among the largest of all churches in Goa, and also the most beautiful. It has a magnificent architecture and has great religious importance. The church was built to glorify the Portuguese rule over India.

 

Basilica of Bom Jesus: By far, the most famous church in Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus is a marvel of baroque architecture. This 16th-century church is a UNESCO Heritage site and contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, the famous Jesuit saint.

 

Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception: Situated in Panaji, this church is among the oldest church in Goa. It has an elegant outer structure, with a double flight of symmetrical stairs. A fine example of Baroque architecture, this church also has the second largest bell in Goa.Simba Shooting  (Not necessary to visit)

 

Church of Our Lady of the Mount : The Portuguese general, Afonso de Albuquerque, ordered the construction of this church in the year 1510. It is among the oldest chapels in Goa and is popular for its Monte Music Festival, a four-day celebration of Indian and Western Music performances by reputed and up-coming musicians. (Not necessary to visit)

 

South Goa Beach

If you are married couple, try to take hotel/hut at Palollem/Agonda Beach.

Time 8.00am to 2.00pm

Bike Riding will give a different thrill to you. You can hire bikes, cars by depositing your licence. Do not forget to get a photo of the license which will can be further used at police check points on the road if any. You can also use Goa Miles App (as OLA and Uber does not work in Goa) if you are with family.

 

Colva Beach: 2.4 kilometers long Colva beach is just about 6-7 kilometers from Margao.If you are the kind of person who strongly believes in be Indian and be around Indians, well Colva should be your go to spot in South Goa. It’s a beach full of Indians and the beach in itself is very gorgeous. Warning, Colva Beach can get a little crowded as opposed to the rest of South Goa. Also, women may have to be a little more careful here and it’s preferable to stay in groups – especially by the beach.

 

Palolem Beach: Palolem is located in Canacona in South Goa and is about 40 minutes from Margao One of the best beaches in South Goa. It is coming up fast with many activities, local markets and food joints close by. It embraces you with natural beauty and rocky outfits covered by trees at one end - a part that is colloquially known as Green Island. The inhabitants here are the local fishermen and visitors who stay in the shacks. This beach is among the best beaches in Goa for couples as it is a less crowded shoreline.

 

Butterfly Beach: The Butterfly beach is almost a secret amongst the regular South Goa addicts here. That’s because it needs a boat ride to be accessed give the impression that its one of those long lost islands where you might bump into the might Kong one day. The sunsets here are to die for and the beach can be accessed by taking a boat from Palolem After Butterfly Beach, Honeymoon Beach, Monkey Island Beach. In this rise, you can see Dolphin.

 

Agonda Beach:  Agonda with its lovely souvenir market and some of the most amazing restaurants, is a beach where the day stays still while you are set free to do your own thing. And if you wish to party in the nights, there are quite a few options here.

 

Cola Beach : These are beaches too. As beautiful as any other but with just one rider – they’re really really quiet. And for any peace loving soul, these beaches can totally be compared to what we call in the ‘touristy parlance’ – paradise. Yes, paradise that is still not lost. Amongst them, Cola is quite off the track and reaching there is a bit of a task but once you step foot on Cola, you can live there forever!

 

Benaulim : Benaulim is literally the most chilled out place ever. It’s clean, pretty and there’s lots to do and love. Benaulim is a foodie haven. All the lanes to the beach are filled with delicious restaurants that will make you drool.

 

Utorda Utorda is in the Goldilocks zone of South Goa. It’s got the right vibe, the perfect mix of Indians and foreigners, a beautiful beach and amazing vibes. (Not necessary to visit)

 

Cavelossim Beach (Not necessary to visit)

 

Varca Beach: The Varca Beach in Goa is known for its delicate white sands and its cleanliness. It is one of the cleanest shorelines in Goa that enable allows the people to relax and spend some time in leisure. While at the Varca Beach one can witness the pristine nature and you can without much of a stretch spend some wonderful snapshots of peace. Decorated with vast greenery this shoreline is encompassed with palm trees and other vegetation. (Not necessary to visit)

 Famous:-

Place to Stay: -

If you decided to stay at North Goa, Baga or Calangute. Baga and Calangute Beach run into each other, with no clear boundary. Generally you can say that Calangute is the area around the main bus terminal and car park, so is a really busy working town with loads of domestic tourists, especially at the weekend. Baga is more upmarket, and has the classier clubs and nightlife especially around Tito's Rd.  Many agent will approach your near Main Bus Terminal for good hotels/Apartments. Bargain and select one for your stay

If you decided to stay at South Goa, Palolem/Agonda Beach

Best Time to Visit:- During Christmas & New Year Eve (Though it will cost you heavily)

The best time to visit Goa is from Mid-November to Mid-February when the weather is ideal for sightseeing. The temperature during this time ranges around 20 to 32 degrees Celcius. It is also the peak tourist season in GoaMonsoons from June to September are another great time to visit Goa if you love the beach during rains. Summer is not a good time to visit Goa. With the temperature fluctuating between 25 to 35 degrees Celcius, the weather from March to May is extremely hot and humid. 

Eat:- A bottle of Feni, Bibinca cake,  Bottle of Kokum Juice, Alcohol is cheaper in Goa than other states in India. The local moonshine, Feni, has earned a GI tag and is a must try when in Goa. However drunk driving is a punishable offence by law, anywhere in India. Buying alcohol in Goa and taking is to other states can also draw ire of the authority.

Purchase:-

Do: - Water Sport Activity like jet ski, banana boat rides, para sailing

Next:- Take your train and reach to your destination but one can also extend his journey to have darshan of Murdeshwar.

Site:- https://goa-tourism.com/