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Essential Travel Tips for Canadians Visiting India   I hope that as your travel advisor you will find this information useful in the planning of your trip to India. This beautiful country has a lot to offer and having some level of readiness helps to maximize the fun that is encountered when on a trip. Below are some of the recommendations that can be given to any individual when it comes to traveling, moving around, getting transportation and eating out. We are going to share some travel tips for Canadians visiting India. Suggested Tour: Golden Triangle Tour of India Travel Preparations (Travel tips for Canadians) Visas and Documentation: Make sure you have the correct tourist Visa before you set out for the trip. The e-Visa for India is as follows: You may apply for an Indian e-Visa if you are a Canadian citizen. It is advisable to always have photocopies of passports, visas, and any other necessary documents. Health Precautions: The next thing that a visitor should do is to obtain the right vaccinations by visiting a travel clinic. Some of the popular tours suggest to take Hepatitis A and B vaccines, Typhoid and Tetanus. The patients should carry prescribed medicines and a simple emergency kit for minor emergencies. Travel Insurance: The travelers should ensure they take adequate travel insurance that includes health and accident covers, as well as loss of baggage and personal property. It is always wise to be safe than to be sorry! How to Travel  Flights: Most airlines offer cheap fares and this is usually the best time to book your flights. Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore are linked to many international destinations. Domestic Travel: India is a large country, so if you are going far, consider the time and include flights whenever possible. Indigo, Vistara and Air India are few of many airlines that have established multiple domestic flight connectivity. Train Travel: I can vouch for the Indian Railways and would recommend this as a great way to explore India. Tickets booking can be done through internet booking or through any authorized traveling agents from IRCTC website. Choose the AC classes when it comes to comfort and security. Local Transportation: For first and foremost, Uber and Ola are the best applications for availing taxi services. Auto-rickshaws are one of the most popular modes of transport in India but never settle for a fare without bargaining or always demand the use of the meter. Suggested Tour: Golden Triangle Tour of Shimla Exploring Places (Travel tips for Canadians) Guided Tours: It is sometimes useful to organize tours to popular places yourself, turning to the services of guides. Local guides are key assets that help not to overlook important points and navigate you through unknown territories. Cultural Etiquette: Avoid dressing provocatively and be cautious regarding the type of clothes worn in the villages and unpopular tourist attractions, religious institutions. This means that one has to respect the laws of the country, and part and parcel of these laws is to respect the customs and traditions of the local people. It is useful if you learn a few basic words in Hindi or any other local language that you are familiar with. Safety: Be careful when in and around the public places, do not walk alone, try to avoid lonely places, and be careful with your personal belongings at crowded places. Keep emergency contacts handy. Accommodation  Hotels and Guesthouses: India houses all sorts of accommodations from high end luxury hotels to basic guest houses for tourists. Read more about it on sites such as TripAdvisor or Booking to determine the particular hotel’s reputation. com before booking. Homestays: Since the most popular accommodations type are hostels, for a deeper cultural experience, it is only possible to stay in home-stays. Sure there are many accommodations available on website like Airbnb where you can get Indian ambiance and food as well. Suggested Tour: Leh Ladakh Tour Food and Dining (Travel tips for Canadians) Eating Safely: Indian food is quite varied and can be very tasty, however it is necessary to eat at a safe place. The first precaution is to only drink bottled or filtered water, steer clear of ice in drinks as well as freshly cooked food where possible. Street Food: Taste street foods but do so with utmost precaution. Select more stalls that are crowded and those which food items are sold out quickly. Some of the commonly chosen foods are pani puri, samosas, and dosas. Restaurants: Dine at popular, established restaurants to test the local food culture. India has regional specialities – Delhi’s butter chicken, Hyderabad’s biryani, and Kerala’s seafood are all must-tries. Money Matters  Currency: The currency used in India is called Rupee which has the international code symbol INR. Over-the-counter cash can be obtained from ATMs, and inform the bank of your travels to avoid problems with the cards. Digital Payments: The world is more and more digital and India is no exception to this evolution. The modern population uses such applications as Paytm and Google Pay, but carrying some cash is still reasonable. Tipping: The most popular form of gratuities is a percentage of the bill which is usually around 10-15% in restaurants, hotels and for guides and drivers. Make sure that one of the extra fees mentioned above such as the service charge is not already factored into your bill. Connectivity (Travel tips for Canadians) SIM Cards: Buy a local SIM card upon arrival with the hope of making calls and have Internet access. The service providers such as Airtel and Jio are quite good and there are affordable tariff plans available. Internet: Internet connection particularly in hotels, cafes, and restaurants is easily accessible through the Wi-Fi connection. But it is helpful to have mobile data at least for navigation purposes and to stay connected with the rest of the world. Packing Essentials Clothing: Pack casual, comfortable and light wear that is suitable for the weather conditions in India. Carry a scarf or shawl when

Vallam Kali Boat Race: A Tradition Steeped in History and Culture     The Valam Kali boat race, commonly known as “Vallam Kali,” is a boat race athoped to be conducted in the Kerala state of India, backwaters. This sport event is not only a competition but also a cultural phenomenon which is a vivid demonstration of the soul of the people of the Kerala state and the historical continuity of their unity. Read also: Splendour Of Kerala Historical Origins (Vallam Kali Boat Race) The beginning of Vallam Kali can be traced to the early ages through stories and historical tales which are part of the lore of the region as well. Based on popular historical accounts, it is believed that the Kera races were born of an ancient custom where the kings of Kerala used to hold boat races to show off their military capabilities. These races frequently took place at the same time as the religious festivals and were a way to connect with gods, especially the festival of Onam, which glorifies the legendary king Bali Maharaj. The name “Vallam Kali” itself which is referred to as “the boat race” in Malayalam (with kali meaning game / race / and vallam meaning boat)The vessels used for these competitions are actually “Chundan Vallams”; these are name for the boats which are pointed at the front and are also more than 100 feet long. Snake boat race, pronounced so for its streamlined shape, is undoubtedly a marvel of engineering as well as a symbol of Kerala’s maritime heritage. The Spectacle of the Race (Vallam Kali Boat Race) The Vallam Kali is a huge spectacle with people hooked to the sport, ranging from the local audience to those who travel from other countries. The main one of these boat races is Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which takes place on the Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha. The torchbearer of the Vallam Kali season and has been given the name of India’s Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, by the one who visited there in 1952. It is after him that this event is entitled. The race preparations start in the days before the race itself, with local communities forming groups to make and repair the canoes. Each boat can have up to 150 oarsmen, who exactly follow the rhythm of the traditional tunes, which are called “Vanchipattu. ” Dropping overboard, the oarsmen in their traditional clothes represent the team spirit and the determination, which are extremely significant for their victory. On the race day, the crowd is as excited as everyone who is taking a part. A backwater canal goes alongside the waterfront and spectators on shore are shouting out contradictory remarks for their favorite team. The tune of the oars hitting the water, the melodious chants of the rowers, and the picturesque outlook of the boats combined add up to a uniquely interesting experience. The race is about both the speed and the synchronization of the rower’s movements and so the winner is determined by it. Cultural Significance (Vallam Kali Boat Race) Vallam Kali is not just a boat race but a pride to love and take care of which are part of Kerala’s cultural heritage. The event happens to be a quite common phenomenon that manages to attract the individuals that are from various social strata which in turn end up contributing to the communal spirit as well as identity. It is the time when the backwaters of Kerala appear filled with music, dance, and festivals, which show how nature is woven into its deep traditions and the region’s love for water. As part of this, the race also acts to protect and cultivate traditional methods of carvings and Vanchipattu art. The contribution of nearby artisans, artists, and village chieftains to these age-old movements guarantees that they will be passed down to the next generation, which creates a connection to cultural heritage of this particular place. Conclusion  Vallam Kali Boat Race is an event of cultural re-enactment and community gathering that represents the best part of Kerala’s traditions. It is an evidence of the area’s historical legacy which over the years has years brought about a sense of belonging and a cultural connection with the local people. The entire experience, whether you are a spectator or a participant, of witnessing Vallam Kali will be an unforgettable journey deep into the heart of the cultural roots of Kerala.          

Places to Visit in Rishikesh Rishikesh, located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a lovely town. Rishikesh, known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, attracts tourists from all over the world. But beyond its spiritual allure, Rishikesh offers an array of experiences among amazing natural splendor. Let’s take a virtual tour of best places to visit in Rishikesh.     Suggested Tour: Garhwal and Kumaon Tour Top 10 Places to Visit in Rishikesh 1. Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula, two famous suspension bridges that cross the sacred Ganges River, are not just architectural wonders, but also fundamental to Rishikesh’s spiritual and historical identity. As you walk over these bridges, taking in the panoramic views of the river and the surrounding hills, you’ll sense the peace that surrounds this holy town. 2. Triveni Ghat: (Places to Visit in Rishikesh) Triveni Ghat, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers merge, is a spiritual and devotional hot spot. Devotees come here to take holy baths, perform rituals, and see the captivating Ganga Aarti, a ritual of worshiping the river with lamps and prayers, held every evening. 3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located between greenery and tall mountains, is a respected Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva. According to popular belief, here is where Lord Shiva drank the poison, making it a spiritual significance. 4. Parmarth Niketan: (Places to Visit in Rishikesh) Parmarth Niketan, one of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, is a spiritual retreat. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere, participate in yoga and meditation programs, and see the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti performed here every evening. 5. Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia): Step back in time and discover the peaceful surroundings of the Beatles Ashram, also known as the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram. This retreat, where the Beatles once stayed, is covered with graffiti and artwork, providing a unique combination of history, art, and spirituality. 6. Neer Garh Waterfall: (Places to Visit in Rishikesh) Instead of being engulfed by the hustling and bustling of the town, escape from the chaos and witness the tranquility of the Neer Garh Waterfall on the wilderness. Placed in the middle of dense and vibrant forests, the cascade offers a delightful place for unwinding and renewal, contended and invigorated by the splendour of nature. 7. Rajaji National Park:  The park is a must-go for those nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Join a safari tour to look for the variegated vegetation and the animals, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and hundreds of bird species. 8. Gita Bhawan: (Places to Visit in Rishikesh) A wide building that provides a residential place for pilgrims and visitors, Gita Bhawan is not just for accommodation but is an assembly and a place for religious talks and activities as well. Find the tranquility by immersing in the Bhagavad Gita meditation and in the peaceful surrounding provided. 9. Vashistha Cave (Vashishta Gufa): As well as that, discover solitude and self-examination at Vashistha Cave, which is said to be the meditation place of Sage Vashistha. Amidst the naturally brewing quietness of the place, this cave is best for people who seek to get away from their usual everyday life to find inner peace. 10. Adventure Activities: (Places to Visit in Rishikesh) To be here in Rishikesh, it is not only spirituality that matters, but it is also the time for the adventurous ones. From an incredible river rafting on the Ganges to an amazing bungee jumping and giant swings, you can feel the thrill of the adrenaline through the activities which are not short in number that can do that. Finally, Rishikesh is a fusion of all these factors: spirituality, adventure, including nature. If you desire for a soulful journey, an adventure-filled life or a serene surreal experience amongst the mountains, Rishikesh offers its unique laidback aura for every traveler. Come up with your luggage, go on a search for wisdom, and finally, make the Rishikesh’s magic enchant your soul.    

Places to visit in Amritsar     Amritsar is a city in the northwest democratic nation of India in Punjab state. It is located close to the Pakistani border. It’s known for being the place of the Sikhs heritage including the part of one the best places to visit in Amritsar Golden Temple where Sikhs from all over the world hold in a special place in their hearts. The Gurdwara (also called Sri Harmandir Sahib) is a dazzling and unique structure which is surpassed only by a big holy lake (Sarovar) which surrounds it. Next to Golden temple, the city Amritsar is famous for its mouth watering food, and must mention the famous dishes from Punjab. The city has iconic landmarks such as bustling markets, historical monuments and Jallianwala Bagh, a spot where Britons killed innocent citizens in 1919. Suggested Tour: Golden Triangle With Amritsar Top 10 places to visit in Amritsar   1. Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) Without a doubt the most recognizable and spiritually inspiring site in Amritsar, the Golden Temple, portrays purity and non-discrimination. Its resplendent golden front, mix with the tranquil water of the Amrit Sarovar, brings forth a wonderful sight, more so with the appearance of the sun and the sunset. Furthermore, the Golden Temple does not just represent its architectural beauty but is also the representation of the Sikh values that involves equality, service, and community. The visitors have the opportunity of serving the langar, a free communal meal that is served to the guests with no consideration of their religion, race, or social class, which is a sign of Sikh teachings’ universality. 2. Jallianwala Bagh (Places to visit in Amritsar) Walking through Jallianwala Garden is a very touching and emotional journey of India’s struggle for freedom. On a sunny day one can see people enjoying the serenity of the public garden where the shudder of the bloody massacre of April 13, 1919, when British troops under the command of General Dyer opened fire at a peaceful gathering killing hundreds of people, still lays heavy on the air. The gun-pocked walls, the well of the Tanimoult where many jumped in order to escape bullets, and the eternal flame all symbolize the sacrifice of those who were killed in duty. The memory of it will always be a reminder of the price that we paid for our freedom. Suggested Tour: Panj Takht Sahib Tour 3. Wagah Border The Wagah border, having a location where the two nations of India and Pakistan wildly sit, is the housed of the popular Wagah Border ceremony which is held on daily basis. On this special day the whole area around the city center gets occupied by many people from two countries. The spectacle of the patriotism-show and the military parade makes them excited. Visitors enjoy about half-hour drills, flag-lowering ceremony, and highly energized shows by the security forces of India and Pakistan, which make the celebrations at Wagah Border full of patriotism and emotions. 4. Partition Museum (Places to visit in Amritsar) To discover the harsh realities of one of the most troubled parts of the Indian history, the partition of 1947, the Partition Museum, housed in the historic Town Hall building, offers a deep and immersive insight. Through stories from individuals, artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays, the museum illustrates the impact the partition has on the people whose lives are affected, pointing out the tragedy that could result from the political decision and the ability of communities to remain resilient in adverse situations. 5. Akal Takht Akal Takht is one of the five pillars of authority in Sikhism, and it bears a prominent position in religious as well as historically. Placed quite near to the Sri Harmandir Sahib gurudwara and situated within the complex of the same, it is the place which is the secular seat of Sikhs’ governance and justice. First constructed by Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru, Akal Takht represents the power of Sikhs and the dominant. Being seen as the supreme religious authority for adjudicating disputes and advocating justice is the main purpose of Akal Takht. 6. Gobindgarh Fort (Places to visit in Amritsar) Originally constructed by Raja Jawand Singh Gurjra in the 18th century, Gobindgarh Fort has been carefully brought back life to represent the splendor of Punjab cultural legacy and past. Inside its walls, this temple unveils museums, galleries, and exhibitions that tell the story of the region: its military power, art, and ancient royal dynasties. The fort also arranges fascinating sound and light shows where times and actors are alive, putting visitors into a time-wrap. 7. Ram Bagh Gardens What is interesting is that Ram Bagh Gardens, named after Guru Ram Das, the founder of the city of Amritsar, offer a perfect option for a peaceful getaway amidst the green landscape and blooming flowers. At the heart of the gardens is the summer palace of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the architectural masterpiece embellished with stunning frescoes and intricate carvings. Visitors will relish the walk along the pathways, enjoy the view of water bodies and have the pleasure of seeing the historical structures scattered across the landscape. 8. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum (Places to visit in Amritsar) The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, which is situated in Amritsar, city of Punjab, India, commits itself to holding the memory of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who is the founder of the Sikh Kingdom in the beginning of the 19th century. The museum displays artefacts, paintings, arms, manuscripts and other ancient pieces related to Mharaja Ranjit Singh and his kingdom. 9. Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai This architectural miracles is a memorial of Baba Atal Rai, the son of Guru Hargobind Sahib who is admired for his devotion and compassion. The monumental nine-storeyed octagonal tower in honor of him is decorated with wonderful frescoes, marble inlays, and sumptuous domes. Sikhs come to the shrine to mark their respect and seek blessings. They immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere and deep Sikh culture. 10. Durgiana Temple (Places

Places to visit in Jaipur   Jaipur is one of the underrated places in India to visit by the visitors. It offers multiple places with different vibe and culture. If you’re thinking about visiting different and exciting places with peace and memories then, this city would be a pleasant surprise for you. So, In this blog we’ll cover the best places to visit in Jaipur. Jaipur being a prominent attraction of tourists has its palaces, temples and fortresses that entice the visitor. Among its most iconic tourist attractions are Hawa Mahal (Palace of the winds), Amer Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar (the monument that symbolizes astronomy) and book festival in Jaipur that joins the list of world’s largest literary festivals.     Best time to visit in Jaipur During the winter time, the best time of the year is October to March, places to visit in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, India. Moreover, during this period, the weather is sublime, having sunny days and nights that can be chilly. This is perfect for viewing the city’s sites. Together, this is when it is most likely that you will have the opportunity to participate in many festivals and cultural events such as Diwali and the Jaipur Literature Festival, both contributing to your cultural exploration.  In case you do not mind the heat and don’t love the crowds, you can fill the shoulder season of April to June, but keep in mind that the temperatures are getting pretty high in both May and June. Top 10 places to visit in Jaipur   Now, without wasting time dive into see the top 10 places to visit in Jaipur. Let’s start…   1. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) Jaipur’s most well known landmark is the Haw Mahal which represents the mastery of Rajput architecture. In 1799, Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh constructed this magnificent building, characterized by its beautiful pink sandstone facade adorned with 953 windows that are artistically carved out with the specific purpose of letting royal ladies observe street festivals and daily life without being seen by the people below.  Similar in structure to the ornate crown of Lord Krishna, the monument is five stories tall. It has a lattice work that allows for wind to circulate, and consequently the building’s name is “Palace of Winds”. Timings: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50 Foreign: INR 200 fee vary   2. City Palace The City Palace is the magnificent compound that consists of royal palaces, courts, beautiful gardens and museums. It was designed and developed by the great Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and it is a perfect representation of a harmonious mix of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles.  Visitors can check out the museums called Mubark Mahal, Chandra Mahal, and the Diwan-i-Khas, which store rare manuscripts and artifacts. The palace complex also provides an immense pleasure to the eyes too with its captivating view of the Pink City. Timings: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm Entry Fee: Indians: INR 200 Foreign: INR 700 fee vary   3. Amber Fort (Amer Fort) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amber Fort is a prominent symbol of the city’s royalty`s great height. Situated at the top of the hill with a panoramic view of Maota Lake, this majestic structure reflects the glory of the Rajput style of architecture.  Visitors can not only adore its stunning marble carving, frescoes, and mirror work in the Sheesh Mahal but also being interactive with its architecture. The grandeur is enhanced by the impressive gates serving as the entrance and exit points, such as the popular Suraj Pol and Ganesh Pol. Timings: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50 Foreign: INR 550 fee vary   Read also: Golden triangle with Amritsar 4. Jantar Mantar It was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, which is an astronomical observatory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It contains an exhibit that displays 19 architectural instruments intended for astronomical purposes. These instruments are meant to be used for precise observations of celestial objects.  The Sundial of Samrat, biggest sundial in the world and Jai Prakash Yantra, the instrument used for measuring altitudes, are among its noteworthy architectural features, revealing the ancient astronomical knowledge and scientific skill of the Indians. Timings: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50 Foreign: INR 200 fee vary   5. Jaigarh Fort Located just near Amar Fort on the top of a hill( fort), Jaigarh fort is considered to be one among the most fearsome buildings of its time. This is due to a gigantic cannon called Jaivana, which is the largest cannon on wheels in the entire world.  Designed for military function and observation, the fort provides a vast view of the Aravalli Hills and the Amber fort from its top-most point. Visitors go through the ramparts, the watchtowers and water reservoirs and they can learn about the bravery stories of many Jai Singh the warriors. Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Entry Fee: Indians: INR 70 Foreign: INR 150 fee vary   6. Nahargarh Fort Nestled in the scenic Aravalli Hills, Nahargarh Fort boast of captivating views of Jaipur city and its vicinity both from top of the hill and the palace within its premises.  Constructed as a defensive bastion, it attains acclaim for its pattern of walls and a peculiar place. Guests can wander past the palace’s enormous courtyards, palaces, and gardens, including the Madhavendra Bhawan, a set of interconnected chambers designed for the royal family, as well as other luxury suites. Timings: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm Entry Fee: Indians: INR 50 Foreign: INR 200 fee vary   7. Albert Hall Museum The Albert Hall Museum was founded in 1887 and it represents Indo-Saracenic architecture at its finest. This museum is situated amidst the green and calm Ram Niwas Gardens. Recently setted up in King Albert Edward VII’s name and gathering a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, carpets, and metal objects