The most talked about beach in Mumbai

Its hard to imagine that admist the hustle and bustle of a busy city like Mumbai, one can still find such a beautiful beach. Be it summer, winter, spring or monsoons, this land of sun and sand has a huge number of visitors throughout the year. Each time you visit, It seems like a new day and a different place as the colours of the sky keeps changing in different hues and tones. A lot of memories have been created here. I too remember my childhood being spent there on holidays.

Back in the olden days it was much different. The beach was secluded with few shops here and there. It was also a famous spot for film shoots. One can also spot several celebrities now and then. Later as people got to know about the beach, the crowd started to fill in. Soon the beach lost its charm and within a few years it was filled with litter and stinks. Something had to be done. With the coming of the Clean Mumbai campaign and various other campaigns, the beach was restored again. A lot of changes and rules have been made since then, which included shifting the shops to end of the beach.

At day time, its all about the Sun rays reflecting on the glittering waves. In the evenings, its about the mesmerizing sunset. At night, its the cool breeze as people gorge on food from the stalls, engage in fortune tellers and watch colourful lasers lights spinning into the air. To grab your attention, hawkers spin light emitting toys into the air against the dark sky.
 

Juhu beach is a foodies paradise with local delicacies avaiable at affordable rates. You must try the special Falooda and Butter Pav Bhaji, something that Juhu was always famous for. Shop no. 58 is one of the oldest shops and has been there since 1965. The owner welcomes you with the name ‘Badhri’, commonly used for Badhrinath, another name of Lord Vishnu. When asked about the beach, he smiled and said, ” Even if its raining , you will still find the beach crowed. At 12 am the water reaches the shops but that doesn’t shop us from selling. This is what makes it unique from all the other beaches in Mumbai. People just love being here, no matter what".

The best way to enjoy this place is to sit back and relax. It also gets interesting when you interact with the people around. Being here is truly amazing, an experience you surely don’t want to miss.

Cycle Rickshaws around the world

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7 Magical Destinations Around The World

1. Cherry Blossom Tunnel, Japan

2. Vaadhoo Island, Maldives

3. Mendenhall Ice Caves, Juneau, Alaska

4. Tunnel of Love, Ukraine

5. Waitomo Glowworm Cave, New Zealand

6. Wisteria Flower Tunnel & Bamboo path, Japan

7. Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

7 Enchanting Forts In India

1. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Located 400 feet above the city, Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India. Beautifully maintained, the fort has treasured most of the historical remains. Guarded by a large boundary surrounded by 7 gates, a steep road lead you to the main fort. Brilliantly crafted with intricate details in its architecture. Within the fort are several magnificent palaces like Sheesha Mahal, Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana. The fort also holds a museum and galleries with mesmerizing paintings. Get a panoramic view of the entire city at highest level of fort, it will feel like paradise.

((Image courtesy- jfgfestival.com )

2. Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh
Several historic monuments including palaces, temples and water tanks are enclosed within the fort. One of the Main features are the eleven temples to the tirthankaras of Jainism and Gautama Buddha. Spectacular palaces and architecture are highlights. Connected by six huge towers, this fort is built around the edge of the hill. The view of this massive infrastructure may seem irregular due to the uneven ground beneath. If you're heading off to Madhya Pradesh, do plan a trip here.

(Image Courtesy www.theholidayindia.com)

3. Golconda fort, Hyderabad
A characteristic of the intelligent engineering marvels at Golconda. It is no doubt this forts architecture was planned in great detail. Merging together four distinct forts over different levels of the hill. Royal apartments, spiritual monuments, intricate designs on the doors and domes reflect a true sense of craftsmanship. One can witness a Hindu – Muslim culture through the designs and environment. The view at the highest level of this historical monument is truly breathtaking. The sound at light show held at the fort is a complete delight to watch.

4. Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan 
Situated in heart of Jaisalmer city, it is quoted as one amongst the largest forts in the world. Stamped as a World Heritage Site, the fort is also popularly known as the Golden Fort or Sonar Quila. Best known for its massive yellow sandstone walls and golden sunsets in the backdrop. Within the fort you will come across the Raj Mahal (Royal palace), Jain temples, Laxminath temple, 4 massive gateways & Merchant Havelis. The splendid beauty and marvelous architecture of this massive monument is sure to create a beautiful memory forever.

5. Kangra Fort, Himachal Pradesh
Situated in Northern India, this fort has historical evidence that leads back to the 4th century BC and was also mentioned in Alexander the Great's war records. Popularly known as one of the oldest forts in India, Kangra has orgins that were mentioned in the Mahabharata. Built during the Sikh period, the entrance to the fort is enclosed between two gates which appears from an inscription. A long and narrow passage leads up to the top of the fort. Proceeding further, you will pass through several Darwaza's that have significant importance. The Darsani Darwaza is surrounded by statues of well known Goddesses. In between these temples is a secret passage that leads up to the palace. Make sure you take a guide who will explain in great detail. Knowing the history of the fort and hidden elements will amuse you. If you want to trace the roots of ancient India, Kangra Fort is where you should be.

6 Cool Getaways This Summer

1. Poolside
Whats more better than diving into a icy pool. Beat the heat as you swim through the cool water. Refresh yourself instantly. Plan a trip with friends and hang out at the pool side this summer. Food and drinks always add up to the trip. It doesn't matter if you don't know how to swim, simply just wave around in the shallow section. 

2. Beach
A day at the beach doesn't need much planning. Just get out your shorts, tanks, summer shades and off you go! More the merrier, a big group is always fun. If you're into sports, enjoy playing various games on the wet sand. If relaxing is your style, simply carry a mat and lazy around as you watch the glittering water and birds flying. Take a long walk as the waves trickle over your feet. If it's tempting enough, you can dip into the sea or simply have a good time splashing water. 

3. Hill stations
Run away from this heat by going to a hill station. It is always much cooler on a higher altitude. Feel the freshness of purified air as you walk down the lanes. Panoramic landscapes and magnificent beauty of the town is sure to impress you. Various activities will keep you occupied. Do not forget to gorge on the local food and shop for souvenirs.

4. Rivers
Yes! Only hopefully they haven't dried up yet. You may find several rivers but need a lot of research. Sometimes the Dam overflows, thus creating artificial rivers. Lonely planet explorers, you will definitely enjoy this trip. Make sure you carry enough food and water as there may be problems finding shops in such areas. Also make sure you are not in the danger zone while swimming. Simply ask those around who have been there before. Sometimes you may find a few locals on their boats. Try out something new by paying them to take you for a boat ride. Have the most unpredictable trip ever!

5. Snow World 
It may not snow in most parts of India, but, I'm sure you always wished for it. With the invention of artificial snow you can now feel it in your own city. So what if there is no real snow, the experience is so cool. Snow world is one such place which is a must visit. Dress up like a Eskimo and explore the place for almost 1 hr. With fun and activities inside, there is also dance and a snow fall session. However, Snow world is available only in few cities. I know you are most excited for this trip. Go ahead and enjoy! 

6. Ice Lounges 
Now have your dinner in a icy cold restaurant. There are several line-ups of this concept these days. Most of the time menu packages are available. But, you can also choose something you like from the menu. It may seem too pricey for most of us, but, dining in ice give you the experience of a lifetime.  

7 Summer must haves while travelling

Summer is back! You may want to hide indoors, away from the scorching heat. But, Trust me it’s time to get out and make the most of the season. Let the warm sun soak into your skin. 
To keep up with the rising temperature, here is a list of the must haves while on a summer trip.

1. Plenty of water & energy drinks- The heat is sure to soak out your energy. This can be a real turn-off for as you lose out on all the enthusiasm. Don’t let the heat ruin your trip. Keep sipping on chilled water or energy drinks to stay hydrated. Keep all that energy going!

2. Sunscreen lotion- Carry your sunscreen lotion everywhere you go. You defiantly do not want to get tanned completely. Make sure the cream is perfect for your skin or else you will feel like a melted ice cream. Sunscreen lotion is a must have to protect your skin.

3. Comfortable clothing- Opting for cotton outfits would be the best. It’s time to wear those shorts with some funky tees. Wearing the right shoes is a must as your feet tend sore easily during summers. Flip flops or airy sandals would be best. Be comfy and stay stylish!

4. Sunglasses- Protect your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun. Moreover, sunglasses look cool and help you look around easily without straining. Sunglasses are a must!

5. Caps, scarfs & umbrellas- You may find it annoying at times, but, trust me they can be quite a life saver. Protect your head from direct sunlight which is sure to make it burning hot. Caps, scarfs & umbrellas will maintain your body temperature when it gets too hot. Stay cool, Stay calm!

6. Fruits and yogurt- Munching on some fruits or having yogurt will reduce your body temperature immediately. So, whenever you feel the heats getting too much, have some fresh fruits like watermelon to feel cool. Perhaps, you can also try some flavored yogurt smoothies. ;)

7. Hand towels- Hello! Its summer and its sure to be sweaty and sticky. Make sure you carry hand towels cause you don’t want to be wiping your sweat on your clothes. To freshen up, splash some cool water on your face from time to time & use the hand towel to wipe gently. It works wonders and you will feel fresh instantly!

Travel Diaries: Sun kissed road

Life's best moments are created when they are unplanned. In all the rush that we make to get life perfect, sometimes we just need to leave it on its own. Let life decide whats best for you. If one day goes cranky the other is the total opposite. Its just two sides of the same coin called life. You have to find it's worth yourself. what you do and how you create it depends on your experiences. It's like a knock on the door which will appear only when you agree to open the door and let it in. 

               On a warm sunny morning, took out the bike and set out on a long ride. Like crazing- zooming on the smooth- long stretch of road. In and out of lanes. Dodging traffic and the ones crossing the street. You land in a place where there's no one but just you. Just you, the plain road, brownish green grass on both sides, dried by the sun, open deep blue sky's with clouds moving all around. The warm sepia feeling as the rays of the Sun touch your skin. You can feel the heat burning your skin and the wind blowing against your direction, cooling it down evenly. The feeling is divine. All your worries, all your sorrows, all your pain. Everything disappears into the wilderness around you and even moving at the speed of 70-75 you feel the clock has stopped. You feel still, you feel motionless as everything around you is moving. Its like being in a trance after you pass through a blow of smoke from the dried twigs on the side of the road. In a world that doesn't seem like your own, but feels more like a dream.

" Search everywhere to find Yourself and suddenly 

In the middle of nowhere You will find yourself "