Monthly Archives: May 2017

Top attractions in the Royal City of Mysore, India

Mysore

Also known as the ‘City of Palaces’, Mysore is one of most exciting cities in South India. A former capital of the erstwhile Kingdom of Mysore, the city today is noted for its ancient monuments and royal palaces.

Mysuru Palace

A historical palace built by Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV, Mysore Palace is one must visit tourist attraction in the city. Located in Chamrajpura district, this ancient structure is a classic example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Within the palace there are numerous unique rooms and over 12 Hindu temples dating back to the early 14th century. The Someshvara Temple, Lakshmiramana Temple, Sri Bhuvaneshwari Temple and Kodi Someshwaraswami Temple are among the popular temples here. Sound and light shows are organized on a daily basis between 7 pm and 7:45 pm.

Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

One of the finest examples of Hoyasala architecture, Keshava Temple is a famous temple in Mysore. Housed inside a high walled enclosure, this popular 12th century construction is known for featuring amazing stone sculptures and paintings depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita. Relief carvings, decorative wall mouldings, pierced windows and other stone inscriptions add to the beauty of the temple. Within the temple there are three beautiful shrines of Lord Vishnu.

St. Philomena’s Cathedral

St. Philomena’s Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in India and tallest in Asia. Built in Gothic style with inspirations from Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, the popular church is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and paintings depicting important scenes from the life of the Christ. Wall images and sculptures showcasing the birth of the Christ, the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, Resurrection and the Ascension of Christ are all impressive. A holy mass and prayer meetings are held daily at the sanctum sanctorum of the complex.

Namdroling Monastery

Located in Bylakuppe district, Namdroling Monastery is a beautiful site in Mysore. Founded in 1963 by a group of pilgrims, the monastery today is home to over 5000 lamas including both monks and nuns. Constructed using ancient Buddhist architecture style, Namdroling Monastery is home to several Tibetan mythology paintings and numerous gold plated statues of Buddha. The three idols of Buddha in a seated position are major attractions here. Around the festival of Losar (Tibetan New Year), the monastery is packed with visitors and devotees. Don’t miss the Lama dance and other celebrations held here!

Jaganmohan Palace

Built in traditional Hindu style, Jaganmohan Palace is a must visit site in the city. A former residence of the Wodeyars (Kings of Mysore), this beautiful palace today is a famous art gallery featuring works of prominent artists and painters from across the world. The gallery is home to the largest collection of artefacts in South India. Japanese engravings and paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata are a major attraction here. The painting of a lady holding a white lamp is a big hit with the visitors.

5 of the Most Popular Museums from Across the World

Exhibiting a range of items, objects and artefacts, museums have always been a major attraction among the tourists. Located all over the world, they allow visitors to study and understand the rich past and traditions of different countries/cultures.

Museum

As per the World Museum Community, there are over 55,000 museums located in 202 countries. Here are just 5 of the most visited ones from across the world.

The British Museum, London

Dedicated to the human history, The British Museum is one of the largest in London. Established in 1753, it is home to a collection of over 71,000 objects of all kinds including painted books, manuscripts, prints and drawings by prominent artists and painters. Artefacts from the tomb of King Khasekhemwy from the 2nd dynasty, flint knife with an ivory handle (known as the Pit-Rivers Knife) from Sheikh Hamada, Egypt, Colossal limestone bust of Amenhotep III, Obelisks, and sarcophagus of Pharaoh Nectanebo II are among the popular exhibits displayed at the museum.

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Presenting over 5000 years of art from across the world, Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the United States and the most visited one in the world. It features an amazing collection of art and artefacts dating back to the early 18th century. The Statuette of Amun, Votive stela of Userhat, Marble Statue Group of the Three Graces and numerous ancient European paintings are displayed here. The museum is divided into 17 curatorial departments.

The Louvre, Paris

A prominent landmark in the city, The Louvre is the world’s largest museum and a historical monument in France. Located on the bank of river Seine, the structure is known for featuring a wide collection of objects and artefacts. Officially established in 1793, the museum is home to over 38,000 objects including 500 paintings and around 10,000 artefacts. Papyrus scrolls, tools, clothing, jewellery, musical instruments and weapons including the Gebel el-Arak Knife, and The Seated Scribe are among the popular exhibits here. Regular exhibitions and workshops are organised for the visitors at The Louvre.

Acropolis Museum, Greece

Opened to the public in 2009, Acropolis Museum is a recent addition to the list of museums across the world. A former Turkish garrison built during the colonial period, the museum is home to ancient artefacts dating back to the era of the Byzantine Empire and Greek Bronze Age. Sculptures and figures of Kritios Boy, Goddess Nike, Peplos Kore and Moschophoros are among the popular items on display here. Be a part of the weekly exhibition and weekend workshop to understand the country’s rich history and culture.

Vatican Museum, Italy

Founded by Pope Julius II in 1506, Vatican Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world. Located in the beautiful Vatican City, the museum contains a total of 54 galleries displaying around 70,000 objects and over 20,000 paintings and sculptures. The works of Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Perugino and Raphael are displayed here. A collection of maps from different periods in history can be located at the popular Gallery of Maps.

Free and Fun-Packed Things to Do in Singapore

singapore

Singapore is a wonderland with plenty to do for adventure buffs. And much to the delight of budget holiday makers, some of these activities are absolutely free.

Enjoy an open-air movie experience

Enjoy a fantastic open-air movie experience with drinks, snacks and popcorn. Families and couples will love to spend time together watching their favourite films under the spectacular starry sky. For instance, MovieMob – an outdoor movie company – holds film screenings at different locations every fortnight thereby encouraging viewers to explore the spots. The viewers can either watch the movie from their cars or simply sit on the canvas sheet provided to them.
Tip: Reach the site early as the space is limited.

Enjoy a walking tour

A walking tour is one of the best ways to observe and absorb the native elements of a foreign land. You get to interact with the inhabitants who are willing to share their stories with others. Such walking tours are organised by different agents and comprise famous places and points, revealing facts and information that’ll interest and excite you. Few of them are linked with free downloadable mobile app guides with maps, photos and elaborate descriptions. If you are more interested in delectable cuisines, opt for the food tours.

Take part in the colourful festivals

Singapore hosts numerous festivals that celebrate customs, traditions and beliefs of the land. The popular festivals celebrated here are Singapore Arts Festival, Chinese New Year, Hungry Ghost Festival, Deepavali, Thaipusam etc. Events and festivals are celebrated in the city throughout the year, so no matter what time you choose to land in Singapore, you will have something to cheer about!

Fly a kite with kids at the Marina Barrage

Marina Barrage’s well-maintained Green Roof, a recreational area measuring nearly four football fields, is an ideal spot for the kite flyers. The gusty winds and the gorgeous backdrop inspire people to try their hands at this famous sport. On most days, you will be able to spot kites of all shapes and sizes. Barrage Cove, a shop on the ground floor, sells a range of kites. Line, reel, solar powered hats can also be purchased from here.

4 Interesting Tourist Attractions in Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok-Thailand

Popularly known as the ‘City of Angels’, Bangkok is one of the most sought after holiday destinations in the world. A former trading port, the beautiful city is home to ancient temples, traditional markets and other attractions. Here is a list on some of the must-visits in the city.

Weekend Markets

Shopping in Bangkok can be a unique experience. Although there are several malls in Bangkok, the traditional weekend markets offer a completely different shopping experience to the visitors. These markets offer a large collection of merchandise, items of daily use, accessories etc. Chatuchak Market, Pak Klong Talat, Klongsan Plaza Market and Klong Toey Market are the busiest weekend markets in the city. Also, there are several restaurants, food stalls and eateries around these markets, offering guests an authentic Thai culinary experience.

Floating Markets

Floating-Markets

Boats piled with fruits and vegetables and other daily essentials is a common sight in Bangkok! For someone visiting the city for the first time, the floating market is a major attraction. Boats are well decorated and divided into small sections and sub sections displaying a wide variety of items, fruits and vegetables and daily essentials. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Amphawa Floating Market are two of the most famous floating markets in the city.

Chinatown

Chinatown is a prominent tourist attraction that’s extremely popular with food lovers, shopaholics and photographers. Packed with numerous shops, stalls, restaurants and small eateries, Chinatown surely warrants a visit from every tourist in Bangkok and for someone who is interested in antiques and gold, this place is a must visit. Several famous Bangkok temples are located close to Chinatown.

Bangkok Corrections Museum

A former security prison, built in 1890, Bangkok Correction Museum remains a popular yet creepy tourist attraction in the city. Located on the Maha Chai Road, the structure is home to several ancient relics. On the 1st floor of the museum you will find a number of life-sized wax figures, and swords and other objects used by the jail masters. The quarters where prisoners would have their last meal and the execution chamber are among the most visited areas of the museum. Weapons used in the old penal system especially man-sized rattan ball are displayed here.

5 Reasons You Should Visit Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Comprising of over 1500 small islands, cays, and shoals, Raja Ampat is a popular Indonesian archipelago.

Indonesia

Often considered one of the best reef areas in the world, the isle is known for its pristine beaches, attractive corals, intriguing caves and beautiful hidden lagoons. Here are top five reasons why you should visit the beautiful Raja Ampat.

Beaches

Featuring miles and miles of beautiful golden-yellow sand, it is the beaches and tiny islets that promise a terrific time to the tourists. Corals and lagoons definitely add to the beauty of the island. There are several small shacks and eateries that serve a range of sumptuous delicacies to guests. Few nestaway and wooden guesthouses are available as well.

Snorkelling

Nestled amidst the Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean, Raja Ampat is one of the best destinations to enjoy the wondrous marine lifestyle. As the waves and ocean currents off the coast of West Papua are low, conditions here are favourable for snorkelling and underwater diving. There are special diving schools and dedicated instructors who train tourists. Apart from exploring the underwater aquatic animals, visitors here enjoy swimming and other adventure activities.

Nature

Staying in those tiny wooden huts, and waking up to the sound of the waves and the early morning musical melody created by the birds is an experience of a lifetime. Spending some time away from the glitz and glamour of the city, under nature’s ambit is something much loved by the visitors. There are not many fancy restaurants on the island, but there are several small shacks and cafes serving authentic cuisines prepared by the natives.

Welcoming locals

Although a little secluded, Raja Ampat is one of the most welcoming islands in the Indian Ocean. Featuring a long history of tribal invasion, it is home to some of the oldest aboriginal communities and native population. Festivals and celebrations in the remote villages of Arborek and Sawingrai offer an insight into the popular traditions and customs of the islands.

Souvenirs

Since there are no big gift shops here, seashells, pebbles and sometimes pearls are among the valuable collectables on the island. Available in different colours, shapes and sizes, seashells remain the top choice of many tourists. When the ocean current and waves are high, white pearls can sometimes be seen scattered on the beaches. If nothing is available, click some beautiful pictures of the island and the surrounding landscape for your friends, family and yourself!

5 Best Known Beaches in South Carolina, USA

beaches

Located on the south-eastern end of USA, South Carolina is one of the most sought after holiday destinations. Blessed with long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, the state is home to some of the most beautiful subtropical beaches. Here are five of them.

Folly Beach

Famously known as the ‘Edge of America’, Folly Beach is a must visit in South Carolina. Located a few miles from downtown Charleston, the place is perfect to enjoy adventure sports and swimming. The backwaters of Folly Islands and the Morris Island Lighthouse are among the popular attractions around the Folly beach. There are several restaurants and cafes nearby, promising the visitors a sumptuous range of delicacies and authentic cuisines.

Edisto Beach

Promising seclusion and privacy, Edisto Beach is loved by the couples. The place is a hit even among families and friends who are looking for clear waters, yellow sands and fewer crowds. Due to its low lying waves and weak ocean current, Edisto Beach is an apt spot to enjoy swimming and snowboarding. There are not many stalls around the beach, so you may want to carry your own food and drinks.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is one of the most famous beaches in South Carolina. With a wide strip of golden-yellow sand and clear ocean waters, it makes for a perfect spot to enjoy fun activities like swimming, scuba diving and snorkelling. The beautiful, picture-perfect cliffs and corals add to the splendour of the beach. Moreover, you can spot turtles here.

Hilton Head

Located on the east coast, Hilton Head is one of the largest islands in South Carolina. With miles of shoreline and aqua blue water, the island promises a delightful beach holiday to the visitors. There are several bike trails, golf courses and tennis courts for visitors who wish to enjoy something more than just the beach. Also, the beach is teeming with resort and hotels.

Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms is a popular attraction in South Carolina. With miles and miles of golden-yellow sand and blue ocean water, it is home to some of the most pristine beaches and several attractive corals. Deep sea diving and snorkelling are among the popular activities enjoyed by tourists here. Isle of Palms is easily accessible from the mainland and makes for an ideal spot for the ones looking for a quick getaway from the city.