Top Visited Destinations of World in 2010

India
Say it because of Commonweath or otherwise, India had been one of the top travelling destinations . A rich repertoire of culture and heritage, India is one popular tourist hub visited for many reason. Festivals, Monuments, or culinary delights, India has array of things to showcase.

China
In the same run falls the much juvenile China. By hosting the popular Asian Games in 2010, China has went ahead of many destinations and easily claimed its presence in the list of being most visited. Fascinated by culture and people, China is again one of best tourist destination of the year 2010.

Switzerland
Better known as the romantic destination, Switzerland don't need any reasons for being explored. The god's heaven is an enticing paradise that could be visited any time of the year. Be it the Alps, nightlife or green meadows, the abode is mesmerizing enough to woo anybody.

Maldives
Those looking for serene beaches has opted for Maldives this year. Dazzling turquoise water with crystalline white sands makes Maldives a preferred destination of 2010. The destination is good enough for family beach holidays.

Srilanka
To our amazement, Srilanka, is this list. Yes Srilanka, better known for its terrorist activities has moved out of its image to become a hotspot in tourism world. With number of leading hotels, beaches, temples, Srilanka is has surprised us with its figures.

Things to See and Do in Kerala

What could be a more alluring fiesta? A delightful extraordinary holiday amidst the lush green landscapes and the marvellous ambience in God’s own country. The azure blue Arabian sea, the greenish backwaters, palm trees on the coast swaying to the silent breezy winds, enchanting white sandy beaches, dark green foliage, astounding varieties of birds and animals, and shimmering lagoons. Where on earth can one find such deadly combination of refreshment, apart from Kerala, India.

Kerala has numerous tourist spots and attractions which magnetise the visitors from far off lands. Kerala's architectural and cultural heritage especially the forts and palaces, the majestic temples shower an oriental ambiance. Lest to forget are the art and cultural forms that thrive in Kerala. The ancient martial art and dance forms performed in Kerala India are worth mention as they are the blend of regional instrumental and vocal music.

The colourful costumes of the dancers add to the visual beauty and charm of the performances that are part of all festivities in the state. The portrayal of mythological and historical legends, the facial expressions of artistes would really glue one to the seats. The most well-known dance forms of Kerala are Kathakali, Theyyam, Ottanthullal, Mohiniyattam, Oppanna, and Thiruvathirakali.

Caparisoned elephants are a special tourist attention in all cultural and traditional displays at Kerala. Ayurvedic treatments and spas of Kerala have commissioned their popularity all over the world.

Kerala Backwaters

The Backwaters of Kerala are a network of interconnected rivers, lakes, canals, and inlets. These backwaters are said to be an intricate channel system formed by more than 900km of waterways. The network has five large lakes, which are linked by canals, and are fed by 38 rivers. Half of the state is made up of backwaters. The Alleppey backwater is also known as the Venice of the East. This beautiful town of the state is globally famous for its awestruck backwaters, boat races, houseboat cruise, exotic beaches, and extra-ordinary scenic beauty.

Beaches of Kerala, India

Kerala is said to be gifted with lovely beaches famous throughout the world. Some of the alluring beaches of Kerala are Kappad beach, Kovalam Beach, Marari Beach, Varkala Beach, Beypore Beach, Alappuzha Beach and many more. Kovalam beach is one of the most beautiful and globally famous beaches in Kerala. Lined with innumerable coconut trees and endowed with natural splendor this is an exotic place for relaxation and holidays.

Kerala Hill Stations


Kerala's exotic appeal is much grounded in its highland area of the Western Ghats. Rising to an average height of 1520 m, the tropical forests of the Western Ghats house rich flora and fauna. The expansive plantations of tea, coffee, rubber and fragrant cardamom whiff the entire journey of a tourist .The popular hill stations of Kerala are Kannur, Kozhikode, Munnar , Idukki , Wayanad , Palakkad . Munnar as a Hill destination requires a special mention.This quaint but beautiful hill town of Kerala, set amongst the Kannan Devan Hills is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Kundala, Nallathanni, and Mudrapuzha. Thekkady, Silent Valley, Trivandrum, Kottayam, etc are other worth visiting tourist destinations of Kerala.

Wildlife of Kerala


God’s own country Kerala is an absolute paradise for the nature lovers as one can view the animals in their natural habitat while cruising on the Periyar Lake. Kerala is a home to many national parks and sanctuaries. The enchanting green forest with its rich flora and fauna makes Kerala a much sought after destination in India. Some of the famous wildlife tours of Kerala are Muthanga Wildlife Tour, Neyyar Wildlife Tour, Parambikulam Wildlife Tour, Periyar Wildlife Tour which add extra bit of enthusiasm in one’s tour.


Truly a tour to Kerala is considered a bliss as it gives a chance to visit the best beach resorts, a treat with the heart of unique wilderness, and a date with the misty hill retreats that pumps the desire for more.

Top 5 Summer Resorts of Italy

Italy is an enticing destination of Europe and there are number of travel attractions in Italy to unveil A place of pasta, olive oil, historical ruins, mafia, Italy seems to garner attentions of all itchy feets. Hailing from the Roman Cathlic roots, Italy has to offer exciting tourist attractions to travellers. The Alps and the po river adds to the beauty of the destination. With 7600 km coastline, Italy has number of summer resorts to popmpously show off.

1 The Amalfi Coast

Situated south of Naples, this breathtaking mountainous coastline was once the main fishing areas of the coast. The coast still retains the old fisherman villages with many travellers visiting just to see the old world charm. The main region is the Amalfi, with better accommodation options. Some of the awesome places to see here are the beaches, tasty restaurants, unique boutiques and ceramic shops.

Taormina

2. Taormina

One of the most popular summer destinations, Taormina is another place where you would find quality resorts. All you need to do is enquire months before your actual visit as generally these resorts are packed with travellers.

Portofino

3 Portofino

Being one of the oldest fishing village, Portofino now claims to offer exclusive resorts in Italy. Located in Ligurai, on the famous Italian Riviera, the accommodation could be majorly found near the old harbour. The nearest village to Portofino is the Paraggi, offering authentic and elite Italian trip.

Cinque Terre

4. Cinque Terre

This hub is a combo of five old fisherman villages- Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola or Riomaggiore, and again if you are looking for resorts, then tend to come out as best places. From number of things to do and see, Cinque Terre is a perfect retreat for Italian travellers.

Sorrento

5 Sorrento

Another spectacular place of Italy and very close to Naples and Amalfi. The hub doesnot have many attractions in itself but there are exciting tourist spots like the ruins of Pompeii or Herculaneum nearby. Basically Sorrento can serve as a starting point for one day trip to near by places.

Dal Batti Churma, Rajasthan India

Rajasthan, the land of Maharajas, is known for many reasons. Being one of the most spectacular place on earth, Rajasthan, India attracts hoardes of travellers from all across the world. There are number of travel attractions, things to do in Rajasthan but another added advantage of this place is its food. Yes, the spicy food of Rajasthan excites the taste buds of many travellers . Every ingrediants used  in the food is just spectacular.  Straight from the Rajasthani platter, we present the famous Dal Batti Churma, a dish not to be missed if you happen to be in Rajasthan.

How To Make Dal Batti Churma

DAL : Ingredients

• 2 cups rajma beans (soaked in water overnight with a pinch of soda bicarb)
• 3/4 cup whole black gram (urad) (soaked in water overnight with a pinch of soda bicarb)
• 3 onions, chopped finely. o 2 tomatoes, chopped finely.
• 2 tsps garam masala powder.
• 2 tsps chilli powder.
• 1 tsp turmeric powder.
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste.
• 2 green chillies, slit lengthwise.
• 2 tbsps cream
• 4 tbsps ghee.
• 1 cup coriander leaves, chopped finely.
• Oil.
• Salt to taste.

For dumplings

• 5 cups whole wheat flour, sieved.
• 1 cup ghee, melted.
• 2 tbsps curd.
• Salt to taste. Method:
• Pressure cook rajma and black gram till it becomes soft.
• Heat 4 tbsps oil. Add onions. Brown them.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and tomatoes. Fry.
• Add all the masalas, beans and salt. Simmer till well blended. The gravy should be thick.
• Pour over cream and ghee.
• Knead a soft dough with flour, ghee, curd, salt and just enough water. Roll into lemon-sized balls. Cover and keep for one hour.
• Then roast in batches on hot coals till puffed and golden outside and spongy inside.
• Keep hot. Garnish the dal with coriander leaves and slit green chillies.
• Dip hot dumplings in the dal while eating. CHURMA Ingredients :
• Wheat flour 200 gm
• Ghee 400 gm
• Khoya / Mawa 100 gm
• Sugar (grounded) 200 gm
• Soaked almond (finely chopped) 50 gm
• Cardamom (small) 4 o Dalchini 1" Method :
• Melt 150 gms. of ghee and mix it in wheat flour.
• Make a stiff dough using very little water.
• Heat the rest of the ghee in a kadahi. Make about 15-20 balls with the dough.
• Fry it on low flame till it becomes golden brown.
• Churn it in grinder after it cools down. Mix khoya.
• Heat 1 tbsp. ghee in kadahi. Add cardamom seeds and dalchini.
• Add the above mixture of wheat flour and khoya. Fry it for one minute.
• When it cools down, add sugar and chopped almonds.
• Mix well. Serve in a plate. o You can enjoy the taste of churma for 8-10 days if you keep it in an airtight box.

Top Wildlife Destinations in the World

Mother Earth has blessed us with an avid diversity of flora and fauna almost covering the whole world. Starting from the east in Asia to the extreme west in the Americas, from the Arctic Nordic countries to the African Continent.

More than half of our planet is covered with lush green vegetation, endangered wildlife species and millions of years old plantations. These dense forests and the wildlife in it provide ample scope for wild life enthusiasts.

Wildlife in Africa:

It is said there is no other place on this planet to see wild animals in their natural savanna habitat as that in Africa. If one is lucky enough, then he/ she can have a close encounter with the big five like that of lion, leopard, two horned rhinos, mammoth African elephants, wild buffaloes, along with those zebras, cheetahs and many others. Africa is said to be haven for wildlife buffs. In Africa, the major wildlife destinations are Chobe National park in Botswana, Kruger National park in South Africa and Serengeti National park in Tanzania. A must visit wildlife arena.

Wildlife in South America:

South America is said to be a granary in terms of priceless archaeological remains and also houses the great Amazon forests. This zone otherwise known as Amazonia is said to be the lungs of our planet and spreads over eight countries of the continent. The South American rainforest is a haven of biodiversity at its threshold and holds more than 70% of the wildlife of the entire planet. It consists of some very endangered flora and fauna. Apart from this, it nestles some exclusive wildlife like that of anacondas, jaguars, monkeys, lizards, turtles, giant anteaters and many more. These Amazon rainforests are also home to some almost extinct tribal groups of the world. The Galapagos islands and Ecuador are an icing on the cake where one views sea lions, furry seals and even Penguins.

Wildlife in Asia:

Asia boasts of some of the largest and thickest forests in the world. It is also home to some of the most fascinating wildlife galore. The Bactrian Camel is found in the Gobi desert of Mongolia and is known as the ship of the desert. This animal can survive extreme hot and dry climates. Bengal Tigers are predominantly found in Eastern India and the Sunderbans Mangrove forest of Bangladesh. The majestic golden eagle with a wingspan of 2 meters is to be found in India and Indonesia. India, basically, tops the list in Asian countries for its wild habitat. They are that of the one horned rhinos found in the Kaziranga national park, elephants found in South India, Asiatic lions found in the Gir Forest to name a few. Komodo Dragons are found in the Indonesian islands. The Siamang Gibbon, Gorillas, Orang Guttan swing high up in the rainforests of Malaysia and Sumatra. The red Pandas are to be found in the North East India and some parts of China.

Wildlife in North America :

The best places to view wildlife in North America are Alaska, Costa Rica, and lest we forget the Yellowstone national park. Pristine Alaskan waters are reckoned world wide for whale watching. Apart from whale watching, Alaska boasts of having some endangered species like that of Brown Bears, mountain goats, and innumerable species of birds. Costa Rica acts as a jewel on the crown having some endangered wild life species and flora of high medicinal utility. It also cuddles many volcanoes in its lap which enhance the picturesque beauty of the land. Yellowstone national park in USA completes the unforgettable wildlife tour.

Wildlife in Australia

Australia amazes one with its splendid wildlife diversity. It boasts of heralding the world's natural wonders like Great Barrier Reef. Wildlife attractions in Australia are most astonishing and captivating. The native marsupials, birds and monotremes like that of platypus offer a unique insight of the animal kingdom. Kangaroo is the national animal of the country. The red kangaroos are the largest marsupials in the world to be found here. This land is also famous for the koala bears, Wallaby (name given to 30 different species of marsupials), Dingo dogs who have reigned the land since 3500 years, Platypus, Ostrich, Emu(flightless bird) and Cockatoo, an extremely intelligent and beautiful bird. Lest we forget we have the Kookaburra bird which is said to be an amazing mimicry artist.

In Australia we have the Daintree rainforest which is said to be the more than 135 million years old and one of the oldest continuously living Rain forest in the world. Approximately 430 species of birds are found in the Daintree rain forest region which includes 13 species found nowhere in the world. The Daintree rainforest region was declared a world heritage site in 1988. A must visit wildlife destination.

Truly, this fascinating experience gives one a chance to enjoy nature and wildlife in their natural habitat. And visiting the residents of jungles with their natural charm has its own attraction. Therefore once in a while one gets a chance to shoo away from the hectic daily chore and get close to the natural world of nature.

Travel Attractions of Mauritius

Mauritius reckons the distinction of being one of the most alluring islands in the world. God found mankind getting completely bucked up from their daily chores, so he made Mauritius to chill out on the vacations. This mesmerizing island is beleaguered by a vast expanse of coral reefs and effulgent sandy beaches.

Port Louis :
Constructed in the year 1735, by noted French Governor, Mahe De labourdonnais. Port Louis is situated amidst mountain. With in the square, there are number of French Styled building that enhances the beauty of these tourist attractions. Apart from these, the other watchable attractions are Municipal Theatre, two churches, one mosque, Government house, Supreme court and so forth.

Black River George:
Spanning over an area of 6,574 hectares, this national park was constructed to save the natural vegetation of the island and make it one of the most important travel attractions in sightseeing tour of Mauritius. While enjoying the greens, you can reach the highest point of the island, the Black River Peak.

Pamplemonsses Garden:
Constructed by Pierre Poivre in the year 1767, Pamplemonsses Garden encompasses the famous Mon Plaisir, the chateau of Pierre Poivre that attracts thousands of visitors from all across the world. The main attractions here are the indigenous species of plants showcased in this garden that dates back to several decades.

Ile Anx Cerfs:
Situated near the east coast of the island Mauritius. Spanning over an area of 100 hectares the region encompasses some of the most beautiful beaches of the zone to be discovered. Known for their sandy beaches and beautiful lagoons, Ille Anx Cerfs are been visited for their bounteous beauty.

Popular Hill Stations of India

The salubrious nature of hill stations offer incredible beauty and are paradise for adventure freaks. Hill stations are mostly known for there ambiance, charm, solace, and sanctity. Listed below are some of the best hill resorts of India.

Gulmarg

Situtaed at an atltiture of 2730 meters, Gulmarg is an incredible hill resort described essentially as large meadow. Located at a distance of about 56 kms south west from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. Gulmarg is reffered as the 'meadow of flowers” that aptly described the abode.Gulmarg is a true sojourn with a sprint of rolling meadows and countless colorful bluebells, daisies and buttercups.

Gulmarg, India offers most enticing snow covered mountains and picture poastcard sceneries It is said to be a popular day trip from Srinagar to Gulmarg and is also famous for trekking. The rice and the maize fields add to the natural scenic beauty of this cool retreat. 

 Munnar

Situated in Kerala 'God's Own Country',Munnar silently nestles at 1600 m above sea level and is an exotic summer retreat of the South. A breathtaking beautiful haven, Munnar is a land of sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes with sweet aroma of spice perfuming the cool air.

The hill resort has confluence of three famous rivers – Madupetti , Nallathanni and Periavaru flow through this town. There are few famous national Parks, wildlife sanctuaries, lakes and waterfalls in Munnar are sights to behold . Therefore, Munnar, India is craved after for a great vacation destination.

Darjeeling 

 

Located in the state of West Bengal in India, Darjeeling is famous world over for its thrilling trek routes and sightseeing. From Darjeeling you have a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga peak- world's third highest peak.

Some of the famous travel attractions to see in and around Darjeeling are Batasia loop, Bhutia busty gompha, botanical gardens, Chowrasta , Dhoom gompha, Happy Valley Estate, Himalayan mountaineering institute & Museums, Natural History Museum, Observatory Hills, Tibetan Refugee self-Help Center and passenger ropeway.

Incase you are interested in travelling to Darjeeling, the option of boarding the toy trains comes first in mind. Board a train from New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. The long journey takes six to seven hours and it provides ample time for oneself to gaze pristine nature. The toy train passes through the lush forests, tea gardens, waterfalls, deep gorges and through the mountains and tunnels.

Manali

Nestled in the lower Himalayas, Manali is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Manali is town engulfed by snow capped peaks. This city has a close connection with the snowline of the majestic Himalayas. Another interesting thing to observe in Manali is the Orchard Industry. This tourist destination boasts its popularity for adventure sport enthusiasts, trekkers as well as honeymooners.

Manali offers the visitors some amazing natural site seeing like hot water springs, waterfalls and the river Beas (water of this river is said to have a look as pure as milk). There are number of beautiful temples and Monastery scattered all over Manali.

Therefore, this winter pack your bags for reliving a snow sensation amidst this picturesque places.