Lighten Up Your Weekend at Hauz Khas Village (Dine Out & Hangout Places)

It’s noisy but it’s happening, its broken but its built again!! That’s Hauz Khas Village. Considered as the most affluent part of Delhi, this destination is heart of people. Based in central Delhi, it features both urban and rural environment. The place flaunts of the best dining places which are often thronged by the localities and tourists. If you are a new bee in the city and exploring Hauz Khas Village (Dine out & hangout places), then here is your guide.

• Fork You: Popular for its feature of – build your own burger, this place allows you to personalize your meal, picking up from condiments to meat. This place is famous for their ladies night which is hosted every Tuesday where free cocktails and personalized glasses steal the show.
• The Rose: This destination is well lit and gorgeous that came into being few years back. Based and tucked in small back lane, this destination is far away from the crowd and other part of the village. It offers an air of freshness, live music and French food. Infact it is the only Hauz Khas Village (Dine out & hangout places) which serves emu.
• Elma’s Bakery: Also popular for its tea and cake, this destination is best known and thronged bakery in the village. Tourists are very often seen visiting this handout place and relishing on generous slice of cakes, authentic scones, high tea service etc. The best part of this place is that they discourage people from using mobiles and laptops so that you just enjoy your meal and the company. A hot chocolate with marshmallows is must try.
• Imperfecto: After you have climbed the 4 floors, we bet you would be tired. But on seeing this decorated place and terrace garden, you wouldn’t care for your running breath. This hangout place has excellent caipirinhas, terrazzo like atmosphere, and rippling waterfall.  What adds more to its beauty is the Spanish music which makes it best place where you must spend some time with your special one.
• Downstairs at Zo: This basement based restaurant is popular for hosting DL and live performance of artists. Apart from Jamaican rappers, Jazz bands, this place features occasional book and poetry readings.

So if you are looking for best place in Hauz Khas village to hang out, then this above list will help you. So take out time from your busy schedule, visit these destinations and spend some time with your best company. 

Shop in Gujarat for Cherished Shopping Experience

Gujarat is famed for its exquisite and picturesque handicrafts across India. It’s the handicraft, jewelry and clothes of this destination, that it one of the hottest and most popular shopping spot. Shopping in Gujarat is definitely a lifetime experience which one will cherish. Assorted items are showcased which include wall hangings, embroidered footwear patola silk saree, bandhnis, gagra cholis, lacquer furniture, embroidered marriage costumes, appliqued quilts, cradle cloth, curios, and the list is endless. All this can be found in different shopping places in Gujarat.

Best Shopping Areas

If you are a tourist in the city and have been looking for best shopping place around, then Rani Na Haziro, along with Sindhi Market and other nearby shopping destinations like Ratanpol, Panchkuva Fire Brigade etc. These places are considered good for bandhani products. You would find boutiques and saree shops too on SG road, CG road, Ashram road and relief road. These places are famous for dresses, dupattas and sarees.

Wondering what to buy from Gujarat?

Sarees: This city is best for known for its embroidered sarees for they are designed intricately loaded with inlaid zari work. Besides, there are silk sarees which can be found around in large part of the city. From gaghra to choli, bandhani to dresses, their craftsmanship is commendable. Hop on to Jamnagar for best sarees and bandhani collection.

Handicrafts: Handicrafts are considered signature of this city. Generally these items can be found anywhere on the side of the streets. The artisans exhibit their skills and talent of craftsmanship through these handicraft items. From bead work to clothes, shells to sequins, buttons to marriage costumes, these items are readily available.

For women, jewelry can be best purchased from Ahmedabad, Vadodra, while for handicrafts Vadodra must be explored. So get set go and explore these places for your best shopping experience.

Street Art on Delhi Roads Helps the Graffiti Artists Display Voice of Masses

Street art in India has undergone significant evolution over the past few years. It has been influenced by strong wave of aesthetic which flows from Bollywood and Indian art. At present there are many cities in India that have got their walls painted with the most innovative, colorful and imaginative murals. The so-called festival of street art on Delhi roads is named – St.Art Delhi Festival that brings talented Indian and International street artists together who further breath life in city’s walls. Main parts of city like Hauz Khas Village, Khirki Village and Shahpurjat are regions which get re-defined with street art.

The murals drafted on walls here remain permanent while with each street festival in Delhi, the limit of outdoor urban gallery stretches itself. The main reason behind this street art festival in Delhi is that artists get an experience of the street, imbibe it and then filter it via their though process which eventually results in personalized street art works. Major part of Delhi is covered with mural art, its principles and features which interact with the viewer. The event has always been big success for it beautifies and transforms the whole city.

Hanif Kureshi, the creative director of street art on Delhi roads says that he strongly believes that such artists that use streets and buildings for showing their art, in actual help voice the masses. One doesn’t specially has to visit a gallery to see their art for it is right here, before you, making it impossible to ignore. More than twenty artists from different parts of the globe have revolutionized Delhi’s walls. Till now, these artists have painted nearly twelve murals and in coming days they are expected to paint more.

As per Hanif, he hopes that completion of this street art will fuel the growth of graffiti in India and will also widen the idea of selecting art as your career. New Delhi is advancing into street art capital city of world since many distinguished styles, creatives, artists, people and cultures of graffiti are showcased through this street art festival. Some renowned artists like Sergio Cordeiro, Ano, M-City, Tona, Alias, ECB, Bond, Artez, Mattia, Foe and Tofu show their creative side through this festival. Some Indian artists like Harshvardhan Kadam, Amitabh, Daku, Yantr, Harsh, Ranjit Dahiya, Anpu Varkey etc will also show their innovative and imaginative pieces of art. Visit Delhi and admire the street art of the city which is worth your praise.

Places Where You Can Witness India Going Crazy During Holi

Holi is one of the most important festivals in North India. It is a festival of colours and one of the major tourism revenue generators. This is the time when people of all age groups join together and have ultimate fun with each other. Lots of foreigners visit North India during this time to join in the fun and take back unforgettable memories to their respective countries. Here are some places where Holi celebrations are on a grand scale in India:

• Mumbai
• Delhi
• Uttar Pradesh
• West Bengal
• Rajasthan

Mumbai – blend of traditional & modern celebrations

Mumbai has its own unique flavour while celebrating festivals of national importance. Holi is no exception to this rule. There are many traditional households that are seen conducting Holi parties with card games, traditional bhang drinks (intoxicating drink made from cannabis buds & leaves) and water balloons filled with coloured powder thrown at each other. At the same time, there are modern clubs where reputed DJs play Holi songs.

Delhi – Escape the colours if you are clever

One of the highlights of Delhi is that you can never escape from the colours during Holi festival here. You will find lots of people (adults & kids) at every street waiting to throw non-toxic colours at unsuspecting strangers. Apart from the sheer thrill this provides, you can also enjoy Holi with authentic street food, which is another trademark of the national capital city.

Uttar Pradesh – Holi with a Religious Fervour

If you can visit Uttar Pradesh during Holi, you can witness Holi celebrations in their grandest forms. Barsana, Mathura and Vrindavan are the places to be to see the huge scale of celebrations of people. Barsana’s Lath Mar Holi (where women beat men who throw colour on them), Mathura’s 40 days long celebrations and Vrindavan’s Laddoo Holi (where sweetmeats are thrown around freely) are some experiences that you just cannot afford to miss in India during this time.

West Bengal – Amalgamation of Culture & Traditions

Holi is very auspicious in Shanti Niketan in West Bengal as it is also the Spring Festival. People celebre the day with the usual dash of colours and also conduct various cultural programs honouring the works of Rabindranath Tagore on this day.

Rajasthan– Royal Holi at its best

When you visit Rajasthan’s royal city of Udaipur during Holi, you will get a chance to be a part of the Holi celebrations of the royal Mewar family. The huge palace procession accompanied by well-decorated horses and professional bands are a must-watch at Udaipur.

Rajasthan Jewelry – True Essence and Reliable Source of India’s Art and Craft!

Throng of talents, Rajasthan in true essence is shopper’s delight when it comes to buying art and craft. The handicrafts and jewelry of this place is well known across the world. International and domestic tourists visiting Rajasthan always desire to buy and take back beautiful souvenirs of this state’s art and craft. The artisans here use patterned and bright colored crafts to adorn the items which serve as best interior décor piece. Amid the myriad of Rajathani handlooms and handicraft items includes Rajasthan jewelry hand crafted items like gold, silver, brass, glass, lac, ivory, wood, marble handicrafts, leather crafts, paintings, semi-precious stones, precious stones, handmade paper, textile, jewelry like meenakari, kundan and silver etc. 

Jewellery from Rajasthan

The Royal Rajasthan Handicrafts

Rajasthan can be well related to a treasure of crafts and art. One can become bedazzled by assorted range of vibrant paintings, wall hangings, leather goods etc. All these items are perfect for adding tint of color and class to any décor. Rajasthan is an abode to different kinds of time honored cultural crafts where the tourists stumble on year old artistic skills. All the artisans use their excellent imaginative skills and exhilarating commodities to produce some extraordinary stuff. 

Rajasthan has acquired gigantic ground and fame owing to the incredibly affluent handicrafts which make this state an outstanding one from the perspective of tourism. If you are a shopaholic and want to shop some exclusive relics of the country, then do not miss a chance to visit Rajasthan and shop over till you drop. Shop around the festivals, carnivals, and lively bazaars that flaunt the best of Art and Craft of Rajasthan. Some main cities where you can indulge in shopping are Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Kota, Ajmer, and Bikaner. Buy stuff which boasts of vibrant colors and intricate handwork of the artisan. After all, India is best known for the handicraft items it has in its embrace.

Handicrafts of Jammu & Kashmir – Face of the State’s Culture

The first word that comes to our mind when we think about Jammu & Kashmir is the state’s unique handicraft industry. Handicrafts of Jammu & Kashmir are considered as one of the best in the world. The state, with its unparalleled beauty all around, has been nicknamed rightly as “paradise on earth”. Creating handicrafts is an important occupation of the people of this state. Many people make handicrafts to earn their daily bread. The craftsmanship of local artisans is highly commendable. Many tourists from across the world come to the state to buy handicrafts from here. 

Excellent Varieties of Handicrafts 

While there are so many things that define the culture of the state, handicrafts clearly rule the roost. Here are some of the most famous types of handicrafts that are produced in the state:

• Wood carvings – Carvings made out of walnut and chinar wood form an important part of the state’s handicrafts. Furniture, decorative boxes and other items are intricately carved with wood by the local artisans and put on display at the innumerable handicraft stores here.
• Paper Mache – Items made of coloured paper pulp are in great demand in Jammu & Kashmir. The mould made from this paper mache is used to make items like dolls, souvenirs and the like.
• Carpets – Kashmiri carpets are world famous. These are fine yards of wool and silk woven personally by the artisans without the interference of any machines. Carpet making in Kashmir has been the tradition since many centuries now. The art was introduced to the state from Persia and even today, the carpets of Kashmir have a heavy Persian influence on them.

Essence of the State’s Culture 

It is not surprising then, that these handicrafts have grown on to become the true representation of the culture of Jammu and Kashmir. There are not many places in the world that have earned a name of themselves in the field of handicrafts. Jammu & Kashmir figures right on top of the list here. Once you visit the state and have a personal experience of the rich handicrafts here, you will understand as to why there is a huge international market for the goods manufactured here. Items like shawls and carpets are indeed quite expensive here; however it is worth every penny because the quality of these items is top-notch and unique. Spun and woven by artisans with their hands, these items are world-famous for their quality and durability.

Culture in Maharashtra – An Ode to the Old World Magical Charm

Maharashtra is one of those states that have a great legacy. Replete with ancient temples and monuments, the state is home to diverse religions. There are quite a few yardsticks based on which we define the culture in Maharashtra. They are religion, food, festivals, clothes and folk culture. Since Hindus form around 80% of the population, most of the festivals and folk performances are related to Hinduism.  The state is home to some reputed temples, historical monuments like the Ajanta & Ellora caves and innumerable forts that are great examples of the state’s unparalleled tryst with heritage and glory. 

Strong Aspects of the State’s Culture 

Food is one of the most important parts of Maharashtra’s culture. With its wide variety and a rich flavour, Maharashtrian dishes provide a wonderful treat to food lovers. Street food delicacies like Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Pani Puri etc. are one of the best in the state. Festivities are seen in full flow in the state eveyr year during the month of August/ September, because this is the time of Ganesh Chaturthi – the most important festival of the state. 

Folk Dances of the State

One of the striking features of the state’s culture is its rich and precious folk culture, which it has been preserving for ages together now. Dance is the face of folk culture in the state today. Some of the famous dances of Maharashtra are:

• Lavani – This is easily the most famous dance in the state.  The name of this dance is derived from the word,”Lavanya” meaning beauty or grace.  Performed by women in their gorgeous and colourful 9 yard sarees, Lavani dance is performed at almost every cultural fair in the state.
• Dhangari Gaja – This is a dance performed by the Dhangari (shepherd community) of Maharashtra. They dance merrily to the poetry named Ovi (composed by them) to offer prayers to their Biruba God.
• Koli – This is one of the most entertaining dance forms in Maharashtra.  Performed by the fishing folk of the state, this dance form usually celebrates events that are centred on the sea, fishing and all events related to their daily livelihood.
• Tamasha – This dance is full of fun and lively spirit. It is one of the well-known folk dance forms of Maharashtra and has a whole lot of musical instruments like drums and cymbals accompanying it.
• Povadas – These are beautiful ballads, through which people pay their respects to the greatest Maratha leader, Chhatrapati Shivaji.

Shopping Places in Chandigarh – A Paradise for Shopaholics!

Wouldn’t you feel elated to visit a city that is planned to precision? How about shopping in such a well-planned city where there are designated shopping areas to cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of shoppers? Though all of these sound too good to be true, that’s exactly how you will feel when you visit Chandigarh. There are unlimited shopping places in Chandigarh that are irresistible even for a person who loathes shopping. Need we say more about the glee that shopaholics get when they come here?

What is special about shopping in Chandigarh?

One of the most important features about Chandigarh is that it offers an incredible experience to all kinds of people who come here. While there are huge shopping complexes and malls at one part of the city, the other part of the city is buzzing with markets and street stalls, where you can shop for great quality of handicrafts at affordable rates. Come with an open mind to Chandigarh and be impressed with the state has got to offer you.

Famous places to shop in Chandigarh

Listed below are some of the famous shopping areas in Chandigarh and their special items. This will give you a broad idea to plan for your shopping.

• Sector 17 – Also known as City Centre, this is one of the best places to shop for everything from a pin to plane. You can buy electronics, books, clothes, shoes and everything else here.
• Sector 22 – Are you interested in buying some interesting pieces of fashion jewellery? Sector 22 is where you need to head to. Rehri market and stalls selling all kinds of Indian snacks are the specialities here.
• Sector 35 – Once you are tired with all your shopping expeditions, visit Sector 35 for this the place where you have a wide range of hotels to choose from for a relaxing bite.

Sector 17 is probably the biggest shopping hub in Chandigarh. During evenings, the place is a far cry from the serene picture it presents in the morning. With its coloured fountains and flashing neon lights, the place surely looks like an upmarket shopping destination. The experience of shopping in Chandigarh is quite unique from what you get in other places. Visit this well-constructed city with its neat shopping areas and take home excellent souvenirs like traditional footwear, clothes with traditional Phulkari embroidery work, handicrafts, woollen fabrics and different varieties of jams.

Experience the Divinity and Serenity in Himachal Pradesh – Land of Gods!

If there is one state in India that is wonderfully lapped in nature’s luxury and still has the brilliance of ancient temples in plenty, it is definitely the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh – Land of Gods. It is aptly known as Dev Bhumi as well in Hindi, because of the presence of close to 2000 temples in the state. Surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks all around and lush green farmlands, Himachal Pradesh is absolutely picture-perfect. It is also a famous holiday destination in the country. 

Why is the state known as Land of Gods? 

Nature is nothing but God’s creation. As per an old proverb in English, “those who can appreciate nature are the ones who see God”. This is absolutely true for Himachal Pradesh.  As far as your eyes can wander, you can see nothing but abundance of nature. Also, the state has its own connection with a great deal of Indian mythology as well, which has led to the place being called “Abode of the Gods”.  Some of the places that ought to be visited here are:

• Kinnaur – This ancient valley of Kinnaur is believed to be the place where the great Pandavas resided during their exile period. Surrounded by Tibet and great mountain ranges all over, Kinnaur is visited in large numbers by Hindus and Buddhists.
• Saraham – The 800 year old Bhimkali temple is an architectural marvel, indeed. This kingdom was believed to have been ruled by the son of Lord Krishna, Pradumna many centuries ago.
• Shakti Peeth Temples – The state houses two powerful Shakti Peeta temples, Naina Devi & Jwalamukhi , which attracts lots of Hindu devotees all over the year.

Some of the other significant temples in the state are Baijnath, Chamunda Mata, Bajeshwar, Masroor Rock, Kathgarh, Lakshmi Narayan, Chaurasi Temples of Bharmpur and the Hadimba. 

Best time to visit

Almost all the seasons in Himachal Pradesh present a picture that is worth visiting. Not many places have this feature in them. If you are a snow lover, visit the state during the months between November and February. This is the season when the state witnesses fresh snowfall in places like Kulu, Manali and Shimla, making it snow-skiing hub in the country.  Summer lasts from March to June and this is the time when you get to witness the lush green farmlands in their full glow. Make it a point to attend the Sipi Fair in Shimla during this time.