Places to visit in Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is the third-largest island in Thailand by area, next to Phuket and Koh Chang. This beautiful island was a hidden treasure ….
Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is the third-largest island in Thailand by area, next to Phuket and Koh Chang. This beautiful island was a hidden treasure for travelers until the late 1980s. Post that, the international airport began its operations, attracting flocks of travelers, including families. Now, more than one and a half million travelers visit the island annually.
Why is Koh Samui so famous?
This island is special and famous for several unique reasons. One of the most distinguished reasons is its open, low-rise, resort-type international airport. The airport is privately owned, unlike other airports in Thailand. Moreover, the terminals will not look like a typical one—instead, the ambiance would give the feel of a greenery cafe or a garden with more open space.
Look out some Best Foreign Trip With Family From India
Additional reasons to visit the Island of Koh Samui include professional water activities, jungle hiking, sunrise or sunset at the pristine beaches, the holy Buddha temple, authentic Thai food, and many more.
The top 5 places to visit on Koh Samui island
- The Chaweng and Lamai beaches
Though a handful of beaches exist, tourists prefer Chaweng and Lamai beaches over other beaches Silver, Taling Ngam, Maenam, Laem, Lipa Noi, and Bophut. Chaweng is more vibrant, nightlife-oriented, and more suitable for a friend’s trip or parties. On the other hand, Lamai is more tranquil and suitable for families. Precisely, they are best for a more relaxed and serene experience.
- The Ang Thong National Marine Park
Certainly, this National Park is an archipelago of forty or more islands, including Koh Samui. You can explore the best and extinctible flora and wildlife here. Notably, only authorized tour operators can offer you the entry tickets. If required, you can plan for camping or staying at the Park accommodations. Thus, these are some of the best things to do in Samui Thailand.
- The Muay Thai training centre
It is referred to as Thai boxing, which is popular in the country. They teach every stance and combat style for the trainees. Visiting them and admiring the training can be unique when compared to usual sightseeing activities.
- The Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks
Hin Ta and Hin Yai are naturally formed granite rocks located on Lamai Beach. Surprisingly, these rocks resemble the anatomy of a male and a female, respectively. Also, local people of Samui quote and relate a tragic story of a grandfather and grandmother who drowned near the beach years ago. So, if you’re curious to know such history, do visit the island.
- The Big Buddha temple
No doubts, it is one of the top Koh Samui attractions. This temple houses a twelve metre long golden Buddha statue that holds cultural and spiritual significance. It is open from morning to evening, so try to include it in your itinerary.
Conclusion
Now you know why Samui is special, unique, and worth visiting over crowded Phuket or Bali tourist destinations. Get your personalized itinerary drafted for your budget and preferences from the best travel agency in India—Emperor Traveline. They also help get your passport and visa processed faster with the passport Tatkal scheme.
Schedule your discovery call and plan your Koh Samui trip now!
Places to Visit in Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is not a city that tries to impress you immediately. At first, it can feel loud, confusing, and messy. But once you slow down and stop trying to see everything at once, it starts to make sense…
Hanoi is not a city that tries to impress you immediately. At first, it can feel loud, confusing, and messy. But once you slow down and stop trying to see everything at once, it starts to make sense.
The charm of Hanoi is in everyday moments, not just landmarks. Still, there are some places you really should see to understand the city better.
Look at the Places to visit in Hanoi, Vietnam:
- Old Quarter
- Hoan Kiem Lake
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Area
- Temple of Literature
- West Lake
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Old Quarter. Where Daily Life Happens
The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi. This is where most visitors spend their time, and honestly, that makes sense. Streets are narrow, traffic feels nonstop, and food smells come from every direction.
Instead of treating it like a checklist, just walk. Sit on a plastic stool and have coffee. Watch shop owners open their stores. Try simple street food even if you do not know the name. Among all Hanoi tourist attractions, this area gives you the clearest picture of how people actually live.
If you want to understand the city, this is one of the most important places to see in Hanoi.
Hoan Kiem Lake. A Pause in the Middle of the City
Hoan Kiem Lake is right next to the Old Quarter, but the mood is completely different. People come here to walk, talk, and slow down. Early mornings are quiet and evenings feel social without being chaotic.
You can walk around the lake in less than an hour, but most people stay longer. It is one of those Hanoi tourist spots that does not demand attention, which is exactly why people like it.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Area. Understanding Vietnam’s History
This part of Hanoi feels formal and structured. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important place for locals, and visitors are expected to behave respectfully.
Nearby, Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda are all within walking distance. Together, they offer context. Not flashy, but meaningful. If you are interested in history, this area is worth your time during Hanoi sightseeing.
Temple of Literature. Quiet and Thoughtful
The Temple of Literature is one of the calmer Hanoi tourist places. It was built as a university centuries ago, and the atmosphere still feels focused and peaceful.
There are gardens, courtyards, and old stone markers. It is not a place you rush through. Many visitors say this is one of the most beautiful parts of Hanoi simply because it feels balanced.
West Lake. A Different Side of the City
West Lake feels more open than the city center. Roads are wider, the pace is slower, and there are plenty of cafes along the water.
Tran Quoc Pagoda sits on the edge of the lake and is easy to visit without planning much. If you want a break from crowded streets, this area is a good choice.
Best Day Trips from Hanoi
If you stay longer, leaving the city for a day is a good idea. Popular options include Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and nearby villages. These trips show a quieter side of northern Vietnam and balance out the busy city experience.
FAQs
- What is Hanoi famous for?
Hanoi is known for its Old Quarter, street food, history, and everyday local life. - What is the most beautiful part of Hanoi?
Many people find West Lake and the Temple of Literature the most pleasant and visually calming areas. - What should we see in Hanoi?
Focus on the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, historical sites around Ba Dinh, and at least one calm area like West Lake.
Best Places to Celebrate the New Year
New Year’s Eve is my favorite time to dream big and hit the road, nothing beats that mix of saying goodbye to the old stuff and hello to what’s next. Last year ….
New Year’s Eve is everyone’s favorite time to dream big and hit the road; nothing beats that mix of saying goodbye to the old stuff and hello to what’s next. Last year, many spent it sleeping in their hometown, but this time? Many are craving something warmer, wilder, maybe a beach where the fireworks kiss the waves.
If you’re like us, scrolling for the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve, pull up a chair. We’ve hunted down spots around the world with epic New Year’s Eve parties, cozy New Year’s Eve dinners, and even chill corners for whispering your new year’s resolutions to the stars. We’ll start with a slice of paradise in India that stole my heart.
Places to go on New Year’s Eve
- Goa, India
- New York City, USA
- Sydney, Australia
- Paris, France
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Goa, India
Goa turns into a beach dream on New Year’s Eve. Anjuna and Baga beaches buzz with laughter and lights as waves roll in. Bonfires crackle, drawing folks for stories and dances, while fireworks burst like stars over the sea. Join the crowd at a lively party or hop on a boat for waveside cheers.
Grab spicy street eats like grilled corn or fresh fish, and let the warm night wrap you up. Goa is my pick for places to celebrate the New Year if you love sand, songs, and that easy joy to kick off the fresh start. What a way to toast the year ahead! Check out the Best place to celebrate New Year in India.
New York City, USA
Zoom across the ocean to New York. The streets buzz like a beehive. Times Square is the heart of it all. A giant shiny ball slides down a tall pole at midnight. Crowds shout “Ten! Nine! Eight!” till zero. Then, boom – confetti rains down like magic snow.
Everyone hugs and sings. If you like city energy, this is your spot for New Year’s celebrations. Grab hot dogs from a cart and watch the show. It’s the kind of New Year’s Eve party that sticks in your memory forever.
Sydney, Australia
Now, fly down to Australia. Sydney wakes up the new year first because of the clocks. The best view? Right by the big Harbour Bridge and the funny sail-shaped Opera House. Fireworks explode in two waves a family one at nine, then the huge midnight blast.
Boats sparkle on the water like floating stars. Kids run around with glow sticks. Sydney tops the list of best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve if you want ocean views and non-stop wow moments. Bring your swimsuit – the summer air feels like a warm blanket.
Paris, France
Hop to France next. Paris turns into a fairy tale on New Year’s Eve. The tall Eiffel Tower glows gold against the dark sky. Fireworks pop around it like popcorn. Stroll the wide Champs-Élysées street with hot chocolate in hand. Street musicians play jolly tunes.
For a special touch, book a New Year’s Eve dinner on a boat floating down the Seine River. Candles flicker, chefs serve crepes and cakes. It’s romantic and cozy – great for places to visit in the New Year if you love pretty lights and sweet treats.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Last stop: Brazil’s sunny Rio. Copacabana Beach turns into a sea of white clothes – folks wear them for good luck. Millions squeeze in for samba beats that make your hips wiggle. Drums thump, dancers spin, and fireworks paint the sky red and gold. Look at some Best things to do in Rio de Janeiro!
Toss flowers into the waves to make wishes. This beach bash is the ultimate New Year’s celebration. It’s loud, warm, and full of heart. If parties are your thing, Rio will have you grinning ear to ear.
Don’t forget other cool spots! Bangkok has rooftop dances with city lights below. Edinburgh mixes old castle fireworks with street games. Dubai lights up its super-tall tower like a giant sparkler. Some kids pick quiet places to visit in the New Year, like snowy mountains or hidden coves, to jot down New Year’s resolutions.
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FAQs
- Which is the best place to go for the New Year?
Hey, it all depends on you! Love sand and sun? Goa or Rio rocks. Crave crowds and countdowns? New York calls your name. - Where is the best place to travel for New Year’s Eve?
Lots say Sydney for those early fireworks or Paris for the charm. Pick what makes your heart dance.
Wherever you end up, New Year’s Eve is about fresh starts and happy times. Share a laugh with pals, munch on cookies, and dream big. Here’s to a year packed with adventures. Happy New Year, friend!
Things to do in Gili Trawangan Islands, Indonesia
Gili Trawangan, or Gili T, is one of the three islands in the archipelago of Gili Indah…
Gili Trawangan, or Gili T, is one of the three islands in the archipelago of Gili Indah, the northwest region of Lombok, Indonesia. The meaning of the word ‘Gili Indah’ is ‘Small beautiful islands.’ Although all three islands (Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan) are serene, Gili T is quite special as it features emerald waters and picturesque photographic tourist spots.
The 5 best things to do in Gili T:
Enjoying the bicycle ride
- There are no motor-based vehicles for commuting inside the islands. So, take a bicycle and discover the island as you wish. Believe us, this will definitely remind you of your childhood cycling memories.
Visiting the mosque and the lighthouse
- Though the island is famous for its beach called ‘Gili Trawangan beach’, it features a mosque and a lighthouse, which have now become incredible tourist spots.
Traveling to other Gili’s in speedboats
- Island hopping is a great activity as all three Gili’s are close to each other and offer different experiences. Moreover, the speedboat ride is what you can enjoy with your peer tourists, be it friends or family members. Having said that, Gili Trawangan nightlife is always special and better than the other Gili’s nightlife.
Admiring the sunset with Bali in the backdrop
- Watching the sunrise and sunset in Gili T is one of the best things to do, as you can admire the breathtaking sunset amidst the Bali volcano mountains. Reach out to your tour operator immediately and add this spot to watch the sunsets if they’ve not included it in your Bali tour package.
Cherishing the water sports
- Kayaking: Couples and honeymooners will like this activity.
- Snorkeling: Any water or fish lover’s first choice is snorkeling.
- Scuba Diving: Honestly, this is an amazing choice for diving & expert divers are still exploring to find out how deep the beautiful sea is.
Willing to plan your next vacation at Gili T?
Just in case, if you’re running short of time to plan your vacation, then leave it to the best travel agencies like Emperor Travels. They guide you and get your tickets and accommodations sorted on behalf of yoy by applying under the Passport Tatkal Scheme.
Alternatively, if you have enough time, get your personalized itinerary to visit Gili T based on the number of days and start booking your tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many days are required to explore Gili T?
If you’re able to spend at least two nights on this small island, you can enjoy all the mornings, evenings, and water games. If not, try spending at least one day and night so that you witness the day life and vibrant nightlife on the island.
2. Is Gili better than Bali?
Well, it depends on what you’re after. If you’re looking for privacy and nightlife, ‘Gili T’ is the best. On the other hand, Bali is more developed than the Gili’s and houses more cafes, restaurants, luxurious stays or accommodations, hosts more water sports, and features to-do activities. Moreover, while Gili is known for party vibes, Bali is known for its cultural heritage.
3. How to travel from Bali to Gili Trawangan?
Government ferries are available at affordable prices, but they take at least six hours to reach the Gili islands. On the other hand, taking private speedboats is slightly expensive but can drop you off in two hours.
4. Is Gili Trawangan a party island?
Yes, people call it the party island owing to the DJs, varied bar and pub events, scheduled parties, and amazing party ambiance.
Best islands in India
India, a peninsular country, encompasses thousands of islands, island groups, and archipelagos with alluring waters, sand, and surroundings…
India, a peninsular country, encompasses thousands of islands, island groups, and archipelagos with alluring waters, sand, and surroundings.
India’s best islands based on the categories
1. Size of the island
- Umananda Island, Assam:
This smallest island in India is located in Assam and in the middle of the River Brahmaputra. It is also known by the name of ‘Peacock Island’ and houses an ancient Shiva temple. - Great Nicobar Island, Andaman and Nicobar:
By area, this is found to be the largest and best island in the country, with a spread of about 920 square kilometres. People visit this island to explore the mesmerising rainforests.
2. Perfect for a honeymoon
- Neil Island, Andaman and Nicobar:
Such an offbeat island belonging to Ritchie’s Archipelago in the Andaman! Staying at a private cruise ship on this island can be the most romantic move of your life. - Bangaram Island, Lakshadweep:
Walking along the emerald waters, admiring the coral reefs, etc, are the best activities in this atoll in Lakshadweep. If you’re a newly married couple, then you must visit this island in India for your honeymoon and stay in one of their lovely cottages. - Agatti Island, Lakshadweep:
Imagine holding the hands of your life partner and gazing at the turquoise waters under the moonlight! Whoa! What an amazing gateway for intimacy and romance!
3. Beauty and serenity
- Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar:
Located between Andaman’s Neil and Peel islands, this houses Asia’s best beach—Radhanagar Beach. Being a part of eco-tourism in Andaman, this is the most beautiful and serene vacation destination. - Kadmat Island, Lakshadweep:
This island features lagoons with corals, sea turtles, seagrass, and exquisite beaches. No doubt, this tops the list of beautiful islands in India. - Majuli River Island, Assam:
This island holds the pride of being the first island to become a district in the country. Bird watching here on this island will make you a repeat visitor to this island. Handicrafts are quite famous here.
4. Water sports
- Kadmat Island, Lakshadweep:
The clear waters ensure amazing scuba diving experiences on this Lakshadweep island. People also like to experience snorkelling here. Notably, the first Water Sports Institute was established only on this island. Looking for scuba diving sites? Visit Kadmat in Lakshadweep. - Divar Island, Goa:
This is another river island in Goa that’s known for water sports, such as skiing, sailing, kayaking, and zorbing. So, visit this island with a large group of friends to maximise the fun.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the most beautiful island in India?
India has the most unique islands with unique features such as pristine waters, white sand, amazing corals, etc. Thus, each island is unique and beautiful in its characteristic features, and by any chance, no less than the others. However, online reports and unofficial statistics claim that people call Havelock Island the most beautiful one in the country.
- How many islands does India house?
Official reports claim that the country houses more than one thousand three hundred islands. The major group of islands includes Andaman and Nicobar, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, and the Lakshadweep Islands.
- Which is the cheapest island to visit in India?
According to the latest expert reports, the top three islands in India that are cheapest include Divar Island in Goa, Kavvayi Island in Kerala, and Little Andaman in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- How about ‘7 islands’?
‘The city of seven islands of India’ was a popular term for a particular city that houses a group of seven islands, unlike any other city in the country. However, today, people call this city by the name ‘Mumbai’ and not by ‘7 islands’ anymore.
Kerala Village in Japan—Traditional Japanese Villages
We all know about ‘God’s own country’, which is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. But did you know there is a Kerala-style ‘veedu’ in Japan? Well, it may be a surprise that such a one exists..
We all know about ‘God’s own country’, which is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. But did you know there is a Kerala-style ‘veedu’ in Japan? Well, it may be a surprise that such a one exists, but it is no surprise that it has represented India.
No further delays. Let’s begin to learn more about this traditional Kerala house in Japan near Nayoga town.
Inuyama-City Little World Museum of Man
Located in central Japan, Inuyama City is known for its traditional and ancient castles. To add more beauty, the city first built an anthropological museum in the 1970s. Later, to reminisce about the castles and houses of different countries, in the 1980s, it built different houses representing each country. They call it “The Little World Museum of Man” and have transformed it into an amusement park encompassing more buildings from around twenty countries, including Micronesia, Germany (Munich Oktoberfest festival), India, Italy, Indonesia, France, Peru, the United States, Turkey, Thailand, etc.
Tourist visitors can pay the entry fee of one thousand and five hundred yen to explore all the traditional-style houses or buildings. The interesting fact is that it is the first open-air museum in the world.
The Kerala village in Japan
In Kerala-style homes and buildings that represent India in this museum, you can see several things adapted perfectly from Kerala and India. The details are damn perfect for the fact that even the laterite bricks are used to construct these houses. Notably, the name of the Kerala house in Japan is ‘Chanakathu Veedu’.
You can consider it a “Mini Kerala in Japan” as everything here got exported from India, from reclining chairs to kitchen utensils, cut-stones to terracotta roofs, a wide verandah model to tulsi madams, every aspect of the house and the buildings align with Indian-styles and transitions. Besides these, you can also see tea or chai shops like in Kerala, enjoy local Kerala or Indian-cuisine foods, and witness cultural programs emphasizing each country’s culture and heritage.
What else can you see in this Kerala house in Japan?
The private swimming pool in this house represents the kulams or house ponds in Kerala.
There are a lot of old photo frames with pictures of Indian people from the previous one or two centuries.
The museum also has some village signboards written in Malayalam (the regional language of Kerala). These details never fail to give the feeling that you’re standing in Kerala, India, and not in Inuyama, Japan.
The post office building in this ‘Japan Museum’ is another reflection of the villages in Kerala, India.
The large courtyards and verandahs remind us of the joint families and large gatherings for family functions and events.
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Conclusion
Kudos to the Japanese government for making such extensive efforts to recollect and reminisce about the traditions and cultures of other countries without deviating from their originalities—communities and lifestyles. Also, thanks to the YouTuber Jasim Moula Kiryat, who brought this to our attention through his live video in recent years.
To explore more such hidden places in Japan and get a customized Japan tour itinerary, reach out to the leading tour operators or travel experts.
Cheapest European Country to Visit from India
According to the European Tourism Trends & Prospects report by the ETC (European Travel Commission)
According to the European Tourism Trends & Prospects report by the ETC (European Travel Commission), foreign arrivals are on a 10–12% rise every year owing to a lot of factors like increased interest toward offbeat or less crowded destinations and non-traditional Mediterranean countries. Especially concerning Indian tourists, the numbers are doubling year on year. Thus, we have come up with a list of budget-friendly tourist places or the Cheapest European Countries for Indian travelers.
Cheapest European Countries from India: Top 7 picks
- Greece
- Poland
- Romania
- Czech Republic
- Hungary
- Slovakia
- Portugal
European Countries
European Country
The key reasons why Indians like to travel to Europe are shorter flight travel, economical expenses, and unique attractions. With these factors into consideration, we can see that Central European countries take the major share on the below list. Now, let’s dive into each of them.
Greece
Even a one-week-long trip from India to Greece seems cheaper (between INR 1 to 2 lacs), including flight travel, accommodation, food, and local commutation. Most importantly, the VISA processing for touring Greece takes 10–15 days maximum.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 13,000–17,000
- Best time to visit Greece: September, October, and November
- Attractions in Greece: Benaki Museum, Porto Katsiki, Balos and Myrtos Beach, National Archaeological Museum, Acropolis of Athens, etc.
Poland
If you ask us, “Which Europe country is best for Indians?” we would say “Poland” first. Because this place is known for its cultural and colonial architectural heritage. The Embassy takes about 20 to 25 days to process the VISA for this country from India. Do not miss their street food, especially their authentic Polish pierogi.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 17,000–22,000
- Best time to visit Poland: May to September
- Attractions in Poland: The Royal Castle in Warsaw, Market Hall, Energylandia, Sopot Brach, Stary Kleparz, Museum of Modern Art, and Brzezno Beach.
Romania
Besides the heritage, this country has a lot more to impress tourists like you—the black sea, bears alongside the beaches, magnificent castles, and painted monasteries. For a short stay in this country, the VISA processing takes only about 10-15 days.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 14,000–18,000, and this varies depending upon the city of arrival in this country.
- Best time to visit Romania: May to August
- Best places to visit in Europe—Romania: The Red Ravine, Plaja Eforie Nord, Salina Turda, Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, Sighișoara, Modern Beach, National Museum of Art, Poenari Citadel, and Relax Beach Mamaia.
Czech Republic
If you’re planning to visit this place, you have to apply for a VISA Appointment much earlier than other EU countries, as it takes more than 20-30 days for approval. Though the Czech Republic is a part of the European Union, they use a different currency called the Czech crown (CZK) instead of the usual Euro (EUR).
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 17,000–25,000
- Best time to visit Czech Republic: March, April, May, September, and October
- Attractions in the Czech Republic: The middle-aged Český Krumlov Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Prague Zoo, Lobkowicz Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, Dancing House, etc.
Hungary
If you’re wondering, “Which country in Europe is the cheapest to visit?” Hungary could be the most common answer. Yes, it is an extremely affordable tourist destination when compared to Western European countries. The VISA processing usually takes about 10-15 days.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 14,000–20,000
- The best time to visit Hungary is April to May and late August to October.
- Attractions in Hungary: The Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Fisherman’s Bastion, Hungarian State Opera, Western Pleasure Beach, and Lehel Market.
Slovakia
Unlike other countries that are rich in heritage and culture, Slovakia is quite different with many landscapes, rivers, mountains, and biodiverse-rich sites. So, irrespective of whether you’re planning for a solo travel to Europe or a family trip, this place has a lot of activities to impress you.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 18,000–22,000
- Best time to visit Slovakia: June to October
- Attractions in Slovakia: Orava Castle, Demanovska Cave of Liberty in Zilina, Tatras National Park, Strbske Pleso Lake, Lomnicky Peak, and the Sucha Bela Canyon.
Portugal
This is one of the Cheapest European Countries is abundant in historical sites, delightful authentic dishes, stunning landscapes, adventurous sporting activities, and architectural marvels. Besides everything, fine wine is special here. So, do not miss them when visiting here.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 18,000–27,000
- Best time to visit Portugal: September to February
- Attractions in Portugal: Luis I Bridge, Praia do Camilo, Casino Estoril, Quinta do Francês Winery, National Palace of Pena, Marinha Beach, Porto Cathedral, and a lot more.
Other budget-friendly or Cheapest European Countries to visit from India
Apart from the above-listed countries, there are other pocket-friendly EU countries that you can travel to from India—Bulgaria, Serbia, Denmark, Sweden, Austria, etc.
How to reach Lakshadweep?
In Sanskrit, the word “Lakshadweep” means one hundred thousand islands. Though it is the smallest U.T. (Union Territory) of India with 36 islands, the beauty of this small group of islands is equivalent to a hundred thousand islands. And hence the name “Lakshadweep.” The island lies between the two tranquil seas—the Arabian Sea and the Laccadive Sea. This serene archipelago of islands
In Sanskrit, the word “Lakshadweep” means one hundred thousand islands. Though it is the smallest U.T. (Union Territory) of India with 36 islands, the beauty of this small group of islands is equivalent to a hundred thousand islands. And hence the name “Lakshadweep.”
The island lies between the two tranquil seas—the Arabian Sea and the Laccadive Sea. This serene archipelago of islands is divided into three sub-groups, namely the Laccadive Islands, the Amindivi Islands, and the atoll of Minicoy. Together, they comprise twelve atolls, ten untapped or uninhabited islands, three coral reefs, and five submerged banks. Breaking news on Lakshadweep: A diplomatic row between India and the Maldives!
An unopposed answer to “How to reach Lakshadweep?”
According to “the Administration of the UT of Lakshadweep,” Kochi or Cochin in Kerala, India, is declared to be the gateway for all tourist purposes. Tourists can reach Lakshadweep from Kochi either via air or waterways. The island is almost four hundred kilometres away from the Indian coastal area (western side).
Important note: Irrespective of any reason, by law, any non-native person is restricted from entering the Lakshadweep Islands. An entry permit is required from the authorities of the Lakshadweep Administration. Click here to download the permit rules!
Flights to Lakshadweep
Agatti is one of the most beautiful lagoons in Lakshadweep, with coral reefs. The reason why Agatti Island is so special is that it is the only island in Lakshadweep that has an airport. So, if you choose to travel via airlines, you have no choice but to book flights from Cochin to Agatti Island. The travel time takes around one hour and two to thirty minutes.
Flights are operating from Bangalore to this special island, but include Kochi as a mandatory stop. And there are no direct flights. So the travel time is more than three hours from Bangalore. Check the Agatti flight schedule released by the Airport Authority of India.
From Agatti, tourists can reach other islands either via ferry boats or helicopters. The best way to visit Kavaratti, Bangaram, Thinnakara, and Kadmat is via boat. Helicopter availability may vary based on the monsoon. Also, the only major helicopter transfer is from Agatti to Kavaratti.
Travel to Lakshadweep by ship or cruise
Traveling from Cochin to Lakshadweep by waterway could be the best voyage you can ever have. You can enjoy the emerald waters as well as explore the routes to various islands, including Minicoy, Kavaratti (the capital of Lakshadweep), Kadmat, etc. There are seven passenger ships from Cochin:
- MV Lakshadweep Sea Ship
- MV Kavaratti
- MV Amindivi
- MV Lagoon
- MV Corals
- MV Minicoy
- MV Arabian Sea Ship
The Kochi to Lakshadweep ship duration is about fourteen to twenty hours. To avail of tickets for the ship, Click here! Additionally, from Beypore Port, Kozhikode, Kerala, the following ships help you travel to the islands:
- MV Tipu Sultan
- MV Bharat Seema
- M.V.Dweep Setu
Particularly, the MV Tipu Sultan Ship can carry 650 passengers.
While all these ships are comfortable for tourists in South India, Mumbai Port helps travellers from North India. The Empress, a Cordelia Cruise ship to Lakshadweep, incurs a passage time of at least four nights. It also depends on the island you choose for your journey. Notably, Cordelia Cruise is one of India’s premium or luxury cruise lines.
Regardless of the ship you choose, you can revel in the different accommodation classes—A/C First Class, Second Class, and Bunk Class. Also, there are clinical cabins with doctors, cafeterias, entertainment events, snack bars, etc. For the best experiences at Lakshadweep, plan your travel with the Best Travel Agency Tour Packages >>>
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is the nearest airport to Lakshadweep?
Agatti is the only island in Lakshadweep with an airstrip to safely land the flights and hence it is the only nearest airport to reach this beautiful archipelago. Book cheaper flights with Emperor, the leading flight ticket booking agency in India.
- What is the procedure to visit Lakshadweep?
The first thing to do when visiting the island is to seek a permit from the respective authorities. Worry not; travel agencies can help you with permits and flight or cruise ticket bookings. So, you don’t need to break your head on these. Authorized quick links for the entry permit are here!
- Is Lakshadweep expensive?
The expense depends on how many days you’re resorting to these islands. For example, if you’re visiting the island just for two days, the cost would be less than INR 25,000. But if you want to explore at least two or three islands and stay for 3–4 days, it might cost INR 50,000–65,000.
- Is a passport required for Lakshadweep?
For Indian tourists, a passport is mandatory as it is a Union Territory of India. For foreign tourists, a visa is mandatory.
Tour around Turgen Waterfalls in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is a treasure of ice-capped mountain peaks, shining glaciers, susurrate rivers, evergreen forests, giant rocky canyons painted vibrantly by emerald mountain lakes, vivid rainbows, elegiac sunrises, and unique flora and fauna.
The Turgen Gorge in the Ili-Alatau National Park is 90 km from Almaty and blessed with abundant bounties of nature. The gorge has hot wells, a trout farm, cascades and thick forests. Full of coniferous and assorted trees, apine and sub-alpine bawns, springs and lakes, herbs and berries of medicinal value, the gorge descends 44 km into the expanse of Assy plateau (2,560m). In the bygone days, caravans from Asia and Europe crossed the Royal Gates en route to India and China. The broad valley extends 60 km east.
Wonders of Turgen in Kazakhstan
The Turgen Gorge is famous for its seven waterfalls: the Medvezhy (Bear) falls has a drop of 30 m flanked by massive cliffs and green fir trees; the Bozgul Falls is known for the sheer might of the water as it washes away an entire tunnel in the solid rough rocks. Another major attraction of the gorge is the earliest Chin Chin-Turgen mossy fir forests, which form a thick vegetation cover with a dense layer of trees.
A must-visit spot in the Turgen Gorge is Boten, the hunting base. The very place of the confluence of three rivers is the deepest point of the gorge – 920 meters. While the Kishi-Turgen flows southeast, the Turgen River runs southwest. The plateau also has an observatory. Prehistoric burial mounds and rock drawings are found along the River Asy. Also dotted are several Sacae and Usun graves in the gorge belonging to the period between 500 BC and 300 AD.
There are a couple of resorts located around the natural hot springs that discharge into the swift-flowing Turgen River. The Sinegorye, found at an altitude of 1500m above sea level in the picturesque Mirushino gorge (which is about 70 km from Almaty), gives you a wide choice of accommodations. The small mountain lakes above the Sinegorye offer good possibilities to fish and bathe; the lower down, a trout farm, allows you to test your fishing skills, and maybe catch a few fish if you’re lucky, for supper.
How to fly overseas? Tips to arrive more refreshed
Are you a first time air-traveller? Early nerves, jittery about the experience associated with air travel? May be you just need a quick refresher to shed all your fears and reservations about flying abroad. Here is a list of easy-to-do ideas you should do when flying overseas and arrive more refreshed:
Stay Hydrated:
Having a large unopened bottle of water in your carry helps in fighting against dehydration. Dehydration is one of the biggest reasons for fatigue. Yes there is water on the plane, but they are usually not enough.
Book a Premium Seat:
It is worth paying a tad extra to have a premium seat or exit row if you can afford it, so that you have a little extra leg room. If not try and go for another isle seat so that you can stand and stretch your body often.
Comfortable shoes:
Wearing comfy shoes will not only make check-in lot more comfortable, but they tend to give, and swelling of legs and feet are quite common when you’re travelling; go for a comfortable pair of shoes.
Bring things to do:
You can always carry things that help you while away the time: a good book, magazine, I-pad, tablet PC, etc. Don’t forget to bring your own earphones as they help block noise.
Snacks:
It is important to eat only healthy snacks and remember to pack some like nuts, dry fruits, etc. Remember most airline snacks are usually peanuts or chips that are full of sodium that are unhealthy.
Exercise:
If you are suffering from leg cramps, you can walk up and down the aisles or do simple leg and arm stretches while on the seat. Neck rolls, heal raises and foot circles can be preformed to relax a bit and for your body to be flexible.
Sleep:
It is important to get good sleep even though if it’s a short snap. Don’t forget to carry neck pillow, eye mask, ear phones or ear plugs. Your doctor may come to your help if you are having trouble sleeping during air travel.
Positive Attitude:
Travelling can be, more often than not, strenuous and taxing, but it’s worth your efforts if you have a positive attitude, and once you arrive safely at your destination.
