Vacations in Himachal Pradesh: Where Snowy Peaks Beckon

Winter holidays can be best experienced in the northern region of India, especially in Himachal Pradesh which let you savor the myriad colors of nature in conifer clad mountains, thick pine forests, deep valleys, flower filled meadows and fruit-laden orchards. Draped along the north-west region of Himalaya, the state stands distinctive with its eclectic diversity and unspoiled natural largesse. With the onset of winters, Himachal Pradesh gets swathed in abundant snowfall. Add to this the fascinating variety manifest in snow-capped peaks, lakes, meandering rivers and verdant hill stations, tours to Himachal Pradesh are a mix of truly incredible and varied experiences.

White Holidays in Himachal Pradesh

Fondly referred to as the ‘Queen of Hills ‘, Shimla is one of the most picturesque hills stations in Himachal Pradesh and a favored destination in India recognized for its lush surroundings and quaint British Raj ambience witnessed in its Victorian architectures. A favored honeymoon destination in India owing to its location in the forested foothills of Himalayan range, Shimla with its serene environs, mesmerizing locales and a host of fun activities is an ideal destination for couples and honeymooners throughout the year.

Adventure Sports like paragliding are favored activities

Besides Shimla, other popular tourist destinations such as Kullu-Manali, Kufri, Kangra, Dharamshala, Lahual-Spiti and Palampur are inherent part of the Himachal Pradesh tour packages. Dalhousie hidden under the lush vegetation consisting of thick pine and deodar forests is an enchanting bucolic retreat in the lap of Himalayas. Offering stunning views of the snow-capped Dauladhar range and undulating Chamba valleys, Dalhousie with its old world charm of British era and verdant greenery is also referred to as the “Switzerland of India”.

Rolling Hills and Tibetan Buddhist Culture are intrinsic part of Himachal Pradesh

Any tour package to Himachal is incomplete without a mention of Manali. Burgeoning with breathtaking scenery, recreational activities and adventure sports, this snow laden town is a hot-favorite destination for honeymooners and an ideal haven for beautiful beginnings. While staying in Manali, tourists can experience different adventure activities such as trekking, mountaineering, mountain biking, rafting, biking and rock climbing.

Then there is Dharamshala, which truly lives up to its name, welcoming fatigued travelers in search of spiritual bliss. The scenic hill station is beautifully nestled in the foothills of Dhauladhar mountain range. Dharamshala is known as the center of Tibetan Buddhism and the bustling tourist center in upper Dharamshala - known as McLeod Ganj - is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile.

For many a traveler who flock this mesmerizing destination nestled along the Western Himalaya, Himachal Pradesh is often synonymous with North India. Blessed with natural abundance, ancient temples and monasteries, high altitude snow deserts, tranquil forests and rolling hills along with a range of adventure activities and trekking trains, only a few destinations, if anywhere, could match the incredible bounties and innate charm of Himachal Pradesh. With slopes of Himachal Pradesh draped in thick canopy of white snow with the advent of winter, Himachal is certainly a place to be this season.

Verdant valleys and undulating Himalaya add to the romance of Himachal tours

Indian Luxury Trains has come up with tastefully crafted luxury tour packages for inimitable vacations in Himachal Pradesh. Visit the website of Indian Luxury Trains to select from an array of exclusive holiday packages to Himachal of which a few states can match such incredible diversity - rolling foothills, lofty hill stations, madcap traveler towns, serene pine forests, endless apple orchards and the high-altitude deserts of Lahaul and Spiti. More images for tours to India could be found at the photostream of Indian Luxury Trains on Flickr.

All aboard Deccan Odyssey - Fascinating Rail Journeys in India

Deccan Odyssey offers a 7 nights/ 8 days journey across destination in Maharashtra with 2 days halt in tiny emerald Goa. Recently refurbished, this Indian luxury train offers a mesmerizing travel extravaganza across some of the most fascinating destinations along the West Coast in India. Quaint interiors and state of the art amenities which includes restaurants, bar, gymnasium and spa coupled with traditional Indian hospitality recreates a more elegant age of opulent traveling which once were exclusive domain of erstwhile Indian maharajas. The journey begins from 7th of December, 2011 and cost US Dollars 425 per person per night on triple occupancy basis.

Deccan Odyssey Train Journey

During the 7 night journey, guests get to explore the picturesque Konkan, Colonial Goa and culture, heritage and art of Maharashtra in sheer opulence. The on board experience is simply remarkable owing to the ethnic interiors, state of the art amenities and impeccable hospitality. The Deccan Odyssey rail journey lets the guest explore the fabled land of Marathas along with tropical beach paradise Goa in panache previously unseen in train traveling or package tours in India.

Indian Luxury Trains (ILT) offers details of facilities, schedules, itinerary, tariff, images, reviews, news and booking to research and plan your luxury train travel in India. Visit the Flickr Stream of the Indian Luxury Trains for images of Deccan Odyssey train journey.

Embrace New Year in Style: All Aboard Maharajas Express Princely India Tour

As the year 2011 draws to a close, a grand way to welcome New Year 2012 in style is all aboard Maharajas’ Express. On 31st December, 2011, when the world would be eagerly waiting to welcome the advent of New Year 2012, guests on board Maharajas’ Express Princely India tour will embark on a weeklong sojourn. Maharajas Express, the most luxurious train in Asia, offers an inimitable way to kick-start New Year with a distinctive panache in sheer opulence.

Fine Dining on board Maharajas Express Train

Maharajas Express journey is all about exclusive experiences previously unheard of in luxury train travel. Specially crafted itinerary which includes sundowner cocktails in Sam sand dunes, folk performances, Elephant Polo matches and actually dining with the descendants of former Indian Maharajas in royal palaces make Maharajas Express a truly indulgent “journey like no other”.

To celebrate the occasion of New Year, Indian Luxury Trains (ILT) has announced exclusive discounts up to 10% on various luxury rail tours packages in India. Read more about this journey, Maharajas Express and offers at Indian Luxury Trains.

Goa Sunburn Festival: Holiday Season Carnival in Beach Paradise

The fifth annual edition of Goa’s Sunburn Festival is scheduled to be held from 27th December, 2011 to 29th December, 2011 at the Candolim beach in north Goa. The 3 days musical extravaganza will feature some top international performers such as Pete Tong and Laughing Buddha and bollywood personalities like Priyanka Chopra.

Come 27th December and Goa will groove to the tunes of Asia’s biggest electronic dance and music festival. The fifth annual edition of Goa’s Sunburn Festival is scheduled to be held from 27th December, 2011 to 29th December, 2011 at the Candolim beach in north Goa. The 3 days musical extravaganza which started in 2007 will be organized on a bigger scale and witness live performances by some top international performers such as Pete Tong, Shaan, Laughing Buddha and Avicii.

Commenting on the fifth edition of this musical fest, Mr. Shailendra Singh of Percept pictures organizers of this day event said “This year, three-fourth of Candolim Beach will be cordoned off for the fest and we will have three venues compared to one venue last year, seven stages as against two last year and over 100 international DJs as against 60 last year. This year, one stage will be equipped with high technology with video mapping and we are investing heavily in international lighting, sound engineering and design.”

Besides international bands and performers, this festival will also mark the entry of renowned bollywood personalities like Priyanka Chopra who is a big fan of Infected Mushroom. “This is the first time we have taken the festival to a much larger scale, also because it's Sunburn's fifth year. We have, therefore, included a special section called MIP (Most Important People), which will be totally secluded and exclusive to people who buy tables there", said a festival organizer.

Last to last year, in 2009, a tragedy occurred at this musical fest when a 23 year old girl died of a drug overdose. This year around 400 security personnel’s including 50 women guards along with a crisis management team and a disaster management team has been deployed at the fest to avoid any such incidents.
Visit the website of Indian Luxury Trains where you could choose from an array of Goa tour packages. The entry ticket costs Rs. 8,050 per person and VIP passes costs Rs. 14,950 for three consecutive days of this musical event. Looking at the amazing success and stature that Sunburn Festival has attained among global travelers, it is the best time to take up Goa tours to enjoy this musical extravaganza.

Goa Fiesta: Christmas and New Year Vacation Ideas

Once a simple, seaside retreat strung with resort hotels, Goa is graduating to a destination with a range of sophisticated lodging and world-class dining options aimed at the tasteful traveler. Goa with its serene beaches, exquisite crumbling architecture, vibrant nightlife, spa & yoga, distinct colonial charm and an openness seldom seen anywhere else in India is a tiny emerald cradled between Arabian Sea and Western Ghats. With a great balance between modernity evident in the party scenes, luxury hotels, spas and restaurants and the rustic charm of Old Goa with its Churches and Cathedrals and traditional villages reminiscent of its Portuguese legacy, Goa is a destination like no other in India.

Churches and Cathedral of Goa: Colonial legacy of Old Goa, a designated World Heritage Site

The tourist paradise, Goa is the ideal place for tourists to spend their vacations underneath the sun and rolling waves palm fringed beaches. With a number of deluxe 5 star hotels and resorts in Goa coming up at some of the most breathtaking locales, tours to Goa has an upper hand over other destinations not just in India but around the world. The most appealing aspect of Goa is the romance which suffuses the environs drawing romantic couples and honeymooners alike from around the world.

Sun and sand paradise Goa

Top Reason Why you should go to Goa

Beaches in Goa
Goa is regarded as a tropical paradise with an array of beaches draped along Arabian Sea coast. With an unparalleled languidness and cosmopolitan hospitality, beaches of Goa are irediscent beacon drawing millions of tourists from around the world. Some of the most visited beaches by tourists in the city are Baga, Anjuna, Calangute, Majorda, Colva, Bogmalo, Vagator, Dona Paula, Miramar and Sinquerim.

Glittering beaches of Goa are its most appealing aspect when it comes to Goa tours and holidays

Rustic Charm of Old Goa
Old Goa was once compared with Lisbon and London back in 1500s. Crumbling architecture which includes scores of Cathedrals and imposing Churches, some of which are largest in Asia, are reminiscent of the bygone splendor of this once fabled city. A visit to Old Goa is a must if you are looking for a glimpse into the colonial legacy of Goa evident in its streets, building, culture and exquisite landmarks.

Old basilica Bom Jesus in Old Goa: A part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Goa

Nightlife
Besides hotels in Goa and suave bars and restaurant, one of the most attractive aspects of Goa is its happening nightlife which is almost absent in other parts of India. Rave parties in Goa are synonymous with hippie culture. Goan trance scene is all about dancing under the stars or outdoors through the day, surrounded by Goa's enthralling beauty and energized by music, nature and good vibes.

Goa is known for its vibrant nightlife and rave party scenes

Hotels & Romantic Getaways in Goa
Owing to the irresistible allure of Goa which draws millions every year from around the globe, a number of deluxe properties from renowned name from hospitality industries have mushroomed in Goa. An array of luxury 5 star hotels in Goa of international standard and blending the best of east and west offer indulgent stays to the guests in this sun and sand paradise.

Goa is a favored destination of honeymooners and couples and these hotels are perfect avenues to provide flame to the romance of the lovers evident in their strategic location, pampering amenities and impeccable hospitality. And it doesn’t take away anything from those who can’t afford 5 star hotels, there’s a hotel in Goa for every budget and every occasion. Besides budget hotels and plush beach resorts in Goa, options of apartment and home stays are also available for the discerning travelers.

Goa is one of the most preferred honeymoon destinations and romantic getaway in India

Monuments
Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Catherine’s Chapel, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and Church and Convent of St Monica are some must visit attractions of Goa. The Churches and Convents of Old Goa are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site and had been influential in spreading both faith and the Portuguese style of architecture in Asia. These grandiose structures and remnants of humanity in the Old Goa which once was compared to Lisbon itself is one of the most distinctive and appealing feature of holidays in Goa.

Planning your trip to Goa
One of the most important determinants of unforgettable holidays in Goa is to plan for your vacation in advance. Goa can be very crowded during some seasons and it is almost impossible to find accommodations in any of the hotels in Goa. On some special occasion such as New Years and Christmas, hotels in Goa are booked a year in advance. Also Goa is divided into several tourist zones, each having their own distinct flavor. A travel expert goes a long away in planning that perfect holiday for you tailored to your requirements. So if you are planning to travel to Goa, plan away and have a regaling time in this tropical sun and sand paradise.

Visit the website of Indian Luxury Trains or contact us for more information and tour packages in Goa.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Delhi

It's a tough task when it comes to choose top 10 places to visit in a city as old as Delhi. Continually inhabited since 300 BCE with built destroyed and rebuilt 7 times, New Delhi is currently in its 8th avatar rising from its own ashes like a phoenix every time it was laid to waste. Rise and fall of mighty empires have ensured that Delhi is dotted with an array of monuments and relics of the past of this ancient city. Here's a list of the top 10 places to visit in Delhi (not necessarily in ascending or descending order).Although activities and things to do in Delhi are not limited to these destinations/attractions, but these 10 iconic places do present to visitors, the myriad hues of New Delhi, blending seamlessly the ancient and the modern.


Humayun’s Tomb

Probably not the iconic image of Delhi but unarguably the most splendid work of Mughal Architecture in the capital, Humayun’s Tomb is UNESCO recognized World Heritage Site and definitely tops the list of must visit place. The structure will give you a glimpse of the iconic Taj as it was here that the Persian Charbagh style was put to test by the Mughal architects and was later perfected in the construction of Taj Mahal in Agra.

Humayun's Tomb: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Dilli Haat

Dilli Haat is an open-air food plaza cum craft bazaar located in Delhi near INA (AIIMS), run by Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC). There are over 62 craft shops inside this plaza where artisans from every corner of this vast country gather to sell and showcase their handicraft. Then there are food stall offering savory cuisines for the platter of guests. Eat here to get an authentic taste of the pan-Indian cuisines in an enchanting ethnic setting.

Red Fort

Once the pivot of the mighty Mughal Empire, Red Fort, or what’s left of it, is stark reminder of ephemeral nature of empires and powers that be. Once a sprawling fortress complex with an array of palaces and grand structures, lush courtyards and cascading waterholes; Red Fort today is only a shadow of its majestic past. The significance of this structure is evident in the fact that it was here that the flag of India was hoisted when she gained independence from British Raj, a tradition which is still observed on each anniversary of Indian Independence Day.

View of the front facade of Red Fort

Akshardham Temple

One of the modern marvels of architecture, this sprawling temple complex by the bank of Yamuna is a sight to behold. The architecture and design of this temple complex is a manifestation of the time tested ancient traditions of Hindu culture, beliefs and spirituality which has percolated down the ages. The popularity of this temple is evident in the fact that 7 out of 10 people who visit Delhi pay their visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. The son-et-lumiere (musical fountain) show in the complex is the most popular attraction and most recommended too.

Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

Khan Market

A haven of overseas travelers throughout the year, Khan Market is all drenched in the hues of Christmas this time of the year. This high-end shoppers and foodies paradise is located at a short distance from Connaught Place and also well connected to Delhi Metro. Khan Market shopping complex houses an array of gourmet food joints and plush restaurants serving cuisines domestic and international cuisines. Then there are gift shops, bookshops, boutiques and fast food joints to keep the shoppers on their toes.

India Gate

Attribute it on the British or the location of this war memorial, India Gate is arguably the most iconic and enduring symbol of New Delhi. It was build to commemorate the Indian and British soldiers who lost their life during Second World War. Evening is perhaps the best time to visit this resplendent structure when it is floodlit while the fountains nearby make mesmerizing display of varied hues.

A view of the floodlit India Gate after sunset

Rajghat (Gandhi Memorial)

Rajghat is the place where India’s ‘Father of the Nation’ Mahatma Gandhi’s remains are buried. Einstein when said that people years from now would find it impossible to believe that a person like Gandhi ever walked this earth. Mahatma Gandhi is best known for his philosophy of Non Violence or Amimsa. A visit to this serene memorial of Gandhi who inspired leaders like Martin Luther and Nelson Mandela is definitely recommended as one of the things to do in Delhi.

Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple or the Baha’i House of Worship located in Greater Kailash is a spectacular specimen of contemporary architecture and one of the must visit places in Delhi. The choice of Lotus was a conscious decision of the architect Furiburz Sabha as lotus is an important symbol common to Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam. Believers of any faith could visit this temple to pray and meditate.

Lotus Temple or the Baha'i House of Worship

Lodi Garden

Once known as the old Lady Wellington Park, Lodi Garden is a verdant refuge located indelhi renowned for monuments belonging to the Sultanate period in Delhi. The Tomb of Muhammad Shah and Sikander Lodi are the prime attraction in the park. The garden is well manicured and also offers ample opportunity to photographers. There’s a eponymous restaurant too located at the edge of park offering succulent cuisines in nonchalant ambience.

Jama Masjid

Located in the vicinity of Red Fort, Jama Majid in Delhi happens to be the largest mosque in Asia with courtyard large enough to accommodate 25,000 believers at a time. It is also considered to be the final architectural wonder built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan, a great patron of art who is also credited with building Red Fort and Taj Mahal.

Asia's Largest Mosque, Jama Masjid in New Delhi

Best Train Journeys in the World: Videos of most elegant luxury rail tours

In a world of cramped and unpleasant planes, trains actually may be the last respite of luxury. Sensing this demand, luxury travel companies like Orient-Express have invested in restoring the world's most famous train routes. And travelers are responding by packing new trains. Indian Luxury Trains (ILT) brings to you the selection of some of the most elegant and luxurious rail journeys from across the world. The most fascinating aspect of these train tours are that on each day of the itinerary, the guests on board experience"a day in the lives" as never before, the most appealing and exclusive aspect of these luxury rail tours.

Venice-Simplon Orient Express

A work of art in itself and a true Art Deco icon, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train offers a journey unlike any other. Step aboard and you enter a more gracious, elegant age of travel. Delightful vintage cabins, gastronomic cuisine and lively on-board entertainment make a journey aboard this iconic train one of the world’s finest travel experiences—a sequence of unforgettable moments.

Blue Train

The Blue Train has an aura of mystique about it. Kings and presidents have travelled on this magnificent moving five-star hotel. It’s very name has become synonymous with the ultimate in luxury and personal service. As the ever-changing scenery flashes past the windows, guests can savour exquisite meals freshly prepared on board by top chefs. Meals served on board are complemented by the best wines South Africa has to offer. The suites on The Blue Train live up to its reputation for magnificence and splendour. The finest bed linen, marble tiles and gold fittings in the bathrooms and sheer opulence all ensure that guests will never forget the time they spend on the Blue Train.

Palace on Wheels

This revered luxury trains in India is also recipient of the coveted World Travel Award for the 4th best luxury train in the world. A joint venture between Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Indian Railways, the luxury Palace on Wheels started its operation in 1982. The train showcases the splendid land of Rajasthan redolent with its royal past. A royal journey laden with story of romance and valor of Rajput Kings of yore unfurls as the train embarks on a whirlwind odyssey which span across Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Chittorgarh, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur.

Hiram Bingham
The Hiram Bingham train is the most luxurious way to journey between Cusco and Machu Picchu. For many visitors a trip to Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime experience, and the Hiram Bingham assures a magical journey, never to be forgotten. The Hiram Bingham is named after the explorer who discovered the fascinating remains of the Inca citadel, Machu Picchu on July 23rd 1911. The carriages are painted a distinctive blue and gold and the interiors are luxurious, warm and inviting with elegant decoration in the style of the 1920's Pullman trains.

Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail's unique train safaris through the heart of Africa combine some of the most magnificent scenery with the glamour and excitement of the golden age of rail travel. Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Step aboard the wood-paneled coaches - classics remodeled and refurbished to mint condition - and enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era, when privileged travelers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion.

Deccan Odyssey - A sneak peek into luxury train ride in Maharashtra

Deccan Odyssey is India's oldest luxury train after Palace on Wheels. The "Deccan Odyssey" leaves Mumbai's CST every Wednesday evening and return to its home base the following Wednesday morning. It makes two stops along the Konkan coast that allow tourists to discover the backwaters of Maharashtra and the golden beaches of Ganapatipule and Tarkarli Beach Resort and visit some of the State's famous sea forts. From here it runs south to Goa where guests explore the churches of Old Goa and relax on one of its sun kissed beaches before turning back again to cover more destinations in Maharashtra which include World Heritage Site of Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad.

Since the train runs through the night, guests get to relax in 5-star comfort and arrive fresh the next morning to explore the destination during the day. Breakfast and dinner are served on the train while lunch is provided at the destination.The fare of the 7 night itinerary starts from USD 425. per person per night on triple occupancy basis. Visit the website of Indian Luxury Trains for more information, reviews and booking of the Deccan Odyssey train.
You may also visit the online picture gallery of Indian Luxury Trains for images of Deccan Odyssey and luxury trains in India.

Rann Mahotsav 2011: Desert Festival of Gujarat

When: Full Moon Night between 9th December, 2011 to 15th January, 2012

Where: The celebratory festival begins in the Bhuj city and goes around the district with a grand finale again being held at the preliminary destination.

Traditional Dance performance during Rann Mahotsav in Gujarat

The Rann Utsav, organised by the State Tourism Department every year to promote tourism in Gujarat, is being held in Dhardo region of the Kutch district. The major attractions during this year’s festival are camel-safari, hot air ballooning, desert car rally, horse ride, all-terrain vehicle and food court in addition to the folk shows and performances to bring out the varied hue of vibrant Runn of Kutch region during the Rann Utsav 2011. The Rann Utsav Tour Packages which could last from 2 to 3 days will include destination around Bhuj. In the course of their itinerary, guests will be taken to Dhorado (White Runn), Hodko, Bhirandiyara and Ludiya village with an option to tour either Indo-Pak Border of Mandvi Beach Tour.

Cultural Folk Show - Rann Mahotsav 2011

Each year a three day festive extravaganza brimming with hospitality, vitality and traditional flavor of the area is hosted and known as the Kutch or Rann Mahotsav. This festival is a unique expression of varied cultural ethos of the Runn of Kutch region in Gujarat. This cultural fest is renowned for its ethnic flavor and celebrative gusto. Rann Utsav 2011, under the tutelage of Vibrant Gujarat, presents a unique opportunity to tourists and visitors from around the world to visit Kutch and experience the true essence of the region.

Read full post at Indian Luxury Trains.

Rann Utsav 2011: Cultural Fest in Gujarat

5 Great Ideas for Honeymoon and Romance in Kerala

Kerala in December is just perfect for the beautiful beginning. One of India’s most favored honeymoon destinations, Kerala’s natural largesse post monsoon recreates a magical ambience beckoning newlyweds, honeymooners and couples from around the globe. Time seems to stand still along the tranquil, palm fringed backwaters. Occasionally, one get a glimpse of the pastoral Kerala lifestyle, set against verdant green landscape of paddy fields, spice and tea plantations and coconut palm groves.

Backwaters/Alappuzza

Kerala Backwaters

One of the most romantic allure of “god’s own country” Kerala is Kettuvallams or the traditional houseboat, meandering along the serene palm fringed backwaters. There is nothing like being ashore on the boat in the middle of canal and dining and sleeping in the middle of backwaters with star spangled sky adding to the romance.

Fort Kochi

Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi, an unlikely blend of medieval Portugal, Holland and an English country village grafted on to the tropical Malabar Coast. Sprinkled with historical landmarks, Kochi fascinates visitors owing to its colonial charm, architectural marvels, eclectic seafood and refined hospitality, which make for a perfect romantic getaway. Promenading along the beach at sunset with the Chinese Fishing Nets and ships meandering in the background is a mesmerizing experience.

Homestays around Vembanad/Kumarakom
Another intimate alternative for a memorable honeymoon holiday in Kerala is a private homestay such as the harmonious Vembanad House, on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Homestays have become the preferred choice of the new generation of tourists who ensure that they travel responsibly. Homestays are affordable too and trendy and cost 2,000-10000 rupees per night, for a double including breakfast.

Kovalam
It is a favored destination of honeymooners and those looking forward to a rejuvenating time in sand and sun. Another important factor contributing to tourism in Kovalam is Ayurveda and wellness activities to invigorate your body, mind and soul. Apart from the stunning beaches which are the main highlight of the Kovalam town, the excellent hotels and beach resorts are also wonders which offer the couples great solitude moment and delightful stay.

Varkala
The magnificent cliffs of Varkala preserve with a poise, the kind of development that has left nearby Kovalam gasping for air. For those who love beaches yet want space and privacy - naturally the honeymooners and romantic couples - it’s well worth checking out Varkala. With a strand of golden beach nuzzling the cliff edge, the vibe here remains faithfully laid-back. Varkala’s beaches are protected by towering bluffs, while all the on-land action hangs precariously, yet mesmerizingly, along the crumbling precipice above.

Romantic Vacation Ideas in Kerala

Besides the aforementioned 5 major allure for honeymooners and romantic couples, Spa and Ayurveda definitely add to the spice. Various Spa Resorts in Kerala come with all the ingredients necessary for romance on your honeymoon in India. Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort, Kumarakom Resort & Spa, Coconut Lagoon along with Ayurvedic Spa facilities at luxury hotels are some of them which blend wellness with rejuvenation and romance.

For tailor made Kerala vacation packages, feel free to visit the website of Indian Luxury Trains.

6th CII-ITC Sustainability Awards on December 16, 2011 in Delhi

There is seldom a business leader in today's world who would argue against the need for sustainable growth. Know which companies serve you best by working responsibly on all fronts. Exercise your consumer choice, and be greener. Tailored to the Indian business environment, the CII-ITC Sustainability Awards organized by CII-ITC Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development, rewards companies which have successfully introduced sustainability into their way of doing business. The awards will be held at Stein Auditorium, Indian Habitat Center in New Delhi. The event will be organized between 16:00 hours to 20:00 hours on Friday, December 16, 2011.

In the last six years, over 400 organisations of various sizes and sectors have vied for the CII-ITC Sustainability Awards. Participants' triple bottom line performance is evaluated and top performers are identified through:

• A rigorous assessment process conducted by trained experts, both on ground and on paper.
• The appraisal of finalists by a distinguished jury, with prestigious international, corporate and government representation.

This event is being organized by the CII-ITC Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development.

Read more at the website of Indian Luxury Trains

or go to, http://sustainabledevelopment.in for details and registration for CII-ITC Sustainability Awards 2011.

About the CII-ITC Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development

A pioneering effort by CII, the Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development is the fountainhead of ideas and practices to promote sustainability in India. It enables businesses become sustainable, and channels the potential of Indian Industry to power India's agenda for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

INDIAN LUXURY TRAINS (ILT) CELEBRATES SECOND ANNIVERSARY

INDIAN LUXURY TRAINS (ILT) CELEBRATES SECOND ANNIVERSARY

Launched in 2009, www.indianluxurytrains.com successfully completed second year run of its operation. The Indian Luxury Train (ILT) was launched on 6th November 2009 by the Indian Holiday Pvt. Ltd. (IHPL) to focus exclusively on and cater to the rising demand of the travelers in luxury rail tours niche. India leads the world when it comes to luxury train traveling and her favored luxury train, the Palace on Wheels is renowned across the world.

Besides luxury rail tours, indianluxurytrains.com also offers an array of add on tours to go with the train journeys and package tours independent of the rail journeys. Indian Luxury Trains (ILT) is an endeavor to offer one stop solution to the travelers looking forward to most wholesome luxury vacations in India” said Rahul Sharma, founder and Managing Director of the Indian Holidays Pvt. Ltd. “it has been a great year for us as we had earlier received National Tourism Award by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The successful second year of the indianluxurytrains.com has only added to the momentum” he added.

Palace on Wheels Video - India's Most Loved Luxury Rail Tour

The revival of that art of elegant travelling in India began with the introduction of Palace on Wheels to promote tourism in Rajasthan. Till date Palace on Wheels remains India's most loved luxury tourist train which is almost synonymous with luxury rail journeys in India.

Whereas the original train was composed entirely of the original personal carriages used by the erstwhile maharajahs of India, Palace on Wheels was later refurbished to accommodate the technological advancement for enhanced pampering and luxury.

Take a peek into a week long ethereal journey on board the Palace on Wheels where its quaint interiors, impeccable hospitality and red-carpet off train excursions sets it apart from other luxury trains in the world.



For more information on Palace on Wheels booking, facilities, journey, reviews, itinerary, images and schedules, feel free to visit the website of Indian Luxury Trains.

Kerala Shopping Festival to promote tours to Kerala

Come December, Kerala becomes a global tourist hotspot. Even as the Northeast Monson recedes by the mid of November, recouping the nature, this time is considered to be the best time of rejuvenation for human too. Add to this the lushness of nature, meandering backwaters, resuscitated beaches and a host of Ayurvedic treatments, December surely is one of the best time to travel to ‘god’s own country’, Kerala. The Grand Kerala Shopping festival only adds up to the abundance of options available for Kerala tours.

Grand Kerala Shopping Festival 

Besides the traditional stronghold of tourism in Kerala which include Fort Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Kovalam, Kumarakom and Wayanad which beckons overseas travels throughout the year, the 5th edition of Grand Kerala shopping festival (GKSF), scheduled to be held from1st December, 2011 to 15th January, 2012 in Kochi, is aimed to catch the eye of potential international buyers.

The 46-day annual Kerala shopping festival is also aimed to attract the traffic coming from Gulf and South East Asian countries and promote Kerala as a shopping and travel destination by reaching out to millions of visitors from this region through Grand Kerala Shopping Festival.

More than 7,000 retail outlets are participating in the GKSF event to sell out items like jewelry, textiles, electronics, automobiles and furnishing. The festival will also showcase handicrafts, hand-woven and Khadi products made in Kerala.

To woo the buyers from outside the state 100% VAT refund on purchase through credit cards will be provided. The concept of e-coupon gateway has been introduced for Non Residential Indians (NRI’s) and Non Residential Kerala (NRK’s). Introduction of night shopping for 10 days that will take place from December 20, 2011 to Jan 1, 2012 is another highlight of this year’s GKSF.

To add to the shopping bonanza, assured gifts from anywhere near Rs.100 to Rs.10, 000 and a grand prize of 101 kg of gold is also in the offering through scratch cards and gift vouchers.

Kathakali Dance Form - Icons of Kerala Tourism

Planning for tours to Kerala at this time of year would definitely look incomplete without the plans to include this grand fiesta in the offing in Kochi. Besides, tourists could easily retreat to some of the most mesmerizing destination nearby which include Fort Kochi, Alappuzza, Kumarakom and the ultimate beach and Ayurveda destination Kovalam.