| May 2016 unique ways to showcase the Indian subcontinent |
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| Discover,
Dream, Experience |
| India has myriad destinations, activities, experiences, colours and a vibrancy rarely experienced elsewhere in the world. In each newsletter we will focus on slightly more off beat destinations, experiences and hotels to showcase the best of what is off-beat in our destinations of India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and Maldives. |
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| Experience: Trek Between Two UNESCO Sights |
| The Kumbalgarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India with a perimeter wall which is 36 kms long. Surrounded by 13 mountain peaks, guarded by seven gates and ramparts and watchtowers, this fortress has witnessed many battles. The Ranakpur Temples, are one of the most significant Jain sites in India, three storeys high, in marble, with 27 halls and domes supported by over a thousand pillars. Between the two is a wildlife sanctuary, home to leopard, deer, rarely sighted Indian wolves and many bird species. There is a wonderful five hour walk through this reserve, starting at Kumbalgarh and ending at Ranakpur. |
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| Visit: Paro, Bhutan |
| The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates rich culture, scenic beauty, myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries though the town is very simple with just one main street. Mt. Chomolhari, at a height of 7,300m, reigns at the northern end of the valley and its glacial waters plunge through deep gorges to form the Paro River. Visit the Paro Dzong, the historic old town and witness the masters in a game of Archery, Bhutan’s national sport. No trip would be complete without taking the walk to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which appears to cling onto the cliffside, high above the Paro Valley. |
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| Festival: Perahera |
| Hundreds of richly caparisoned elephants, thousands of Kandyan drummers, a myriad performers, chiefs in gold and silver ceremonial dress and the famed Maligawa Tusker, combine to create one of Asia’s largest and most colourful festivals, the Kandy Esala Perahera. Held annually during July/August this is a ten day festival resplendent with history, religion and the vibrant culture of this extraordinary island. It takes place in the evenings when the colours and sounds are emphasized against the dark of the night, creating a magical atmosphere. The purpose of the festival is to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, which is housed at the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy. It will take place from 8th to 18th August 2016 |
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| Stay at: Amaryllis, Wayanad |
Set amidst the timeless beauty of Wayanad’s famed mist-shrouded hills, is Amaryllis, a beautiful homestay which looks down on the backwaters of the Karapuzha Reservoir. Surrounded by nature and with just five rooms and two luxury tree houses, it is the perfect place for those who love nature, peace & quiet. Your hosts, being coffee planters previously, provide an old world charm and the ambiance of a planter’s home.
Leisurely breakfasts,
lazing around the pool, sleepy afternoons and tea on the verandah, are followed by dinner and fascinating conversations. For the more adventurous, trek in the surrounding hills and stay in one of their luxury tree houses, a unique experience. |
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