Tacfftales

Rural Tourism: A Remedy for the Modern Mind

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 03:16:00 -0700

Rural tourism may not be the ideal vacation choice for everyone, but in today’s fast-paced world, it is becoming an essential need. Our hectic lifestyles and constant hustle are leading to increased stress, anxiety, and a range of lifestyle-related health issues—making the simplicity and calm of rural life more valuable than ever.

The Wellness We Didn't Know We Needed

Cities offer convenience, but they often come at the cost of peace. Noise pollution, air pollution, endless screen time, and tight schedules have created an epidemic of burnout. In contrast, rural destinations offer something modern life lacks—silence, space, and slowness.

Rural Travel is a Path to Reconnection with Nature and Ourselves. Whether it’s strolling barefoot on lush grass, savoring freshly harvested produce, or awakening to the gentle sounds of birds instead of alarms, rural travel allows us to reconnect with both nature and ourselves. Spending just a few days in a countryside setting can enhance sleep, lower stress levels, and foster a true sense of tranquility.

A Sustainable Choice for the Conscious Traveler

Rural tourism also encourages sustainable travel. Unlike mass tourism, which often puts pressure on natural resources and local culture, rural tourism is about giving back—to the land, the community, and the environment.

By choosing rural homestays or farm retreats, travelers directly support local livelihoods. They become part of the solution—helping to preserve traditional knowledge, protect biodiversity, and promote low-impact lifestyles. Many villages now practice eco-tourism by using solar energy, promoting organic farming, and reducing waste.

Farm Stays: A Growing Trend

One of the most sought-after types of rural tourism today is the farm stay experience. Visitors have the opportunity to reside on active farms and engage in daily activities such as feeding cattle, harvesting vegetables, or preparing traditional meals.

This hands-on approach not only brings joy and novelty but also educates travelers—especially children—about food, sustainability, and resilience. It’s an enriching, immersive alternative to commercial hotels or crowded cities.

The Future of Travel is Rooted in the Rural

As the tourism industry evolves post-pandemic, travelers are seeking more authentic, meaningful, and mindful experiences. Rural tourism offers all three. It has the power to heal—not just individuals but also communities and the planet.

We may not have dreamt of spending our holidays in a mud house, cooking with firewood, or watching stars under the open sky—but perhaps that’s exactly what we need.

Next time you plan a vacation, skip the skyscrapers. Choose the green fields, earthy smells, and human warmth of a rural retreat. Let it be not just a break from work—but a return to life.

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Cultural Festivals

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Mon, 7 Jul 2025 01:29:00 -0700

About Tai Ethnic Cultural Festival

I had the opportunity to attend the third Tai Ethnic Cultural Festival, which took place in Tengakhat, in upper Assam's Dibrugarh district.

The event celebrated the heritage and traditions of the Tai communities. The festival showcased and highlighted the Tai culture, fostering unity and pride while embracing visitors with warm hospitality.

Highlights of this festival

The cultural festival provided a platform for locals to showcase their homegrown products, highlighting sustainability, community engagement initiatives, and women's empowerment.

Women's self-help groups participated, offering a diverse array of local dishes that included rice beer, smoked meat, pickles, pita, and various traditional sweets. Additionally, local women-owned businesses were showcasing exquisite handloom and handicraft items, along with stunning paintings.

I had some truly extraordinary experiences while engaging with incredibly talented women, which deepened my appreciation for the resilient spirit of these dynamic individuals. They dedicated 15 to 16 hours each day to ensure their success and active involvement in the festival.

Visitors enjoyed a variety of cultural performances, featuring traditional dances, music, and art. Local artisans showcased their crafts, providing insight into the intricate designs and techniques that have been handed down through generations.

The event was a lively tribute to the rich heritage and traditions of the Tai communities.

A summer break

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:22:00 -0700

Enjoying the summer break by focusing on self-care, travel, and rejuvenation.

As I log into my social media account, it's clear that people in our country are fully embracing the summer vibes and getting into the holiday spirit. It's truly exciting to see how amazing and beautiful everything looks – simply breathtaking!

This must be a needed break for all of us, just to cherish the moment and hope to start a new journey as calendar dates shift. A break-free time from all the hassles and bustles, and leaving behind all the activity that we engaged in.

Here are some intriguing suggestions to spark your interest and consider visiting these stunning destinations throughout India.

Embark on a captivating journey through the diverse regions of India. Explore the country's rich heritage, vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes, and charming atmosphere.

As you traverse through these diverse landscapes, you will encounter warm hospitality and a tapestry of traditions that define the regions of India. Each destination will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this remarkable part of the world.

Take off on exciting journeys through the northeastern regions of India to uncover their vibrant culture, rich heritage, and stunning landscapes. Dive into the enchanting world of Assam, famous for its vast tea plantations and the majestic Brahmaputra River, offering picturesque views and tranquil riverbanks. Discover Meghalaya, known as the "Abode of Clouds," where you can marvel at the fascinating living root bridges and appreciate the pristine beauty of Cherrapunji, one of the rainiest places on Earth. Immerse yourself in the scenic mountains of Nagaland.

In Arunachal Pradesh, discover peaceful monasteries and the captivating Tawang Monastery that will immerse you in a world of serenity and spiritual essence. Sikkim's stunning scenery, featuring the majestic Kanchenjunga, is a perfect haven for both nature admirers and adventure seekers. Experience the unique floating phumdis on Manipur's Loktak Lake for a surreal adventure, and explore the wild beauty of Mizoram's verdant hills and valleys.

Explore the ancient temples and palaces of Tripura, uncovering its rich history. Then, journey to the serene beaches of Digha and Mandarmani in West Bengal, where the soothing waves and sandy shores offer a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Every state in the Northeast holds a wealth of experiences ready to be explored. From hiking in enchanting forests to enjoying local cuisine and engaging with friendly communities, this journey guarantees an unforgettable adventure that nurtures the spirit and expands perspectives.

Start a captivating exploration of the hill stations in Northern India. Delve into the region's rich heritage, lively culture, stunning river banks, and varied wildlife. Experience the stunning scenery of destinations like Manali, with its snow-covered mountains and verdant valleys, or venture into the peaceful charm of Shimla, where colonial structures blend with the serenity of pine forests.

Explore the delightful streets of McLeod Ganj, where the Dalai Lama resides and Tibetan culture and cuisine blend harmoniously. Experience a serene boat ride on the glistening Naini Lake in Nainital, encircled by lush hills and charming cottages, alongside vibrant markets.

Rishikesh provides an exciting experience for the adventurous, with exhilarating white-water rafting on the Ganges River and opportunities for spiritual renewal in its numerous ashrams. Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga in Darjeeling and savor the renowned tea from the local plantations.

While exploring these captivating hill stations, you will encounter a harmonious blend of nature, adventure, and spirituality. Each location has its distinctive allure, encouraging you to craft enduring memories.

Take a captivating trip through the southern hill stations of India. Tucked away in the verdant Western Ghats, these hill stations provide a harmonious mix of nature's splendor, rich cultural heritage, and peaceful surroundings. Start your journey in Munnar, Kerala, where vast tea estates extend into the distance, and fog-clad mountains form a scenic panorama.

Next, you can consider travelling to Ooty in Tamil Nadu, often referred to as the "Queen of Hill Stations." The charming town is known for its colonial architecture, botanical gardens, and the iconic Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Enjoy a boat ride on the serene Ooty Lake or explore the vibrant local markets brimming with handcrafted souvenirs and aromatic spices.

You can plan your journey to Coorg, also known as Kodagu, in Karnataka. Famous for its coffee plantations and lush landscapes, Coorg is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

While exploring these captivating hill stations, you will experience genuine hospitality, vibrant traditions, and a variety of flora and fauna. Each location provides distinct experiences, including cultural festivals, scenic trails, and delightful cuisine. Whether you crave tranquility or exciting adventures, India's hill stations guarantee a remarkable voyage full of marvels and exploration.

The Perfect Combination: Winter and Biryani

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 21:44:00 -0800

Biryani is a perfect one-pot meal for lunch or dinner in winter.

If you're looking for hearty meals that don't require much cooking time, one-pot meals are the way to go. They provide a delicious and nutritious option that saves time while offering a wholesome and satisfying experience.

In this article, we take a look at the best biryani recipes across the country and uncover the secrets of the most delicious biryanis nationwide. From identifying core ingredients to savouring the unique flavours, this is an experience you won't want to miss.

Biryani is an excellent option for those who feel too lazy to cook and unsure what to order. The dish's intoxicating aroma and selection of styles make it a favourite one-pot meal among all age groups.

Did you know that the preparation style of biryani changes as you travel across different regions of the country? So, whether you prefer Hyderabadi Dum Biryani or Lucknawi Biryani, you can explore the unique preparation style of biryani from different regions of the country.

One of the most popular biryanis is the Lucknowi Biryani, also known as the "Awadhi biryani". This dish stands out due to its dum pukht cooking method, which involves slow-cooking the rice and mutton (or chicken) with a blend of spices such as saffron, star anise, and cinnamon. The rice is first partially cooked apart from the meat, and then combined to finish cooking together.

Moradabadi biryani, a fusion of Mughlai and Awadhi cuisines, with a unique blend of biryani masala and local spices. This dish is made by cooking tender chicken pieces with fragrant basmati rice, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and bay leaves.

One of the most beloved dishes in Hyderabad is the Hyderabadi biryani, which involves slow-cooking marinated raw meat with half-boiled rice. The dish is garnished with red-fried onions, mint, and coriander leaves. To achieve the perfect flavor, the cooking utensil is placed on a flat tawa and the slow cooking process allows the aroma of the spices to seep into the rice and meat.

In the east, Kolkata biryani is a popular variation made with aromatic rice, spices, and potatoes. It has a mild taste and is typically garnished with boiled eggs. Kolkata biryani has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other types of biryani.

The Kashmiri Biryani is a dish that is packed with flavour without being too spicy. Prepared with ghee, this dish is made with a mixture of yoghurt, saffron, aromatic spices, and a layer of soaked rice.

Malabar Biryani is a popular type of biryani with a unique cooking style that sets it apart from other types. The rice and meat are cooked separately and then layered together, resulting in a slightly milder taste. This biryani is typically made with local rice grains, giving it a distinct flavour.

Festivals in North East India you will love to explore this winter

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 01:57:00 -0700

North East India is set to host a series of incredible festivals this winter once again.

Around the corner, the festive mood is palpable, as we enjoy the amazing weather and clear blue sky. It's the perfect time to take a break and embark on a short trip.

In this blog, we thought of mentioning some of the most amazing cultural and travel festivals happening in North East India in the next few months. These festivals are becoming very popular among travellers and locals. A huge gathering is witnessed every year in all these festivals, and all of the locations are extremely beautiful, nature wonders and full of adventure activities.

Cherry Blossom Festival

Event dates: 17th November – 19th November, 2023. Venue: Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya is going to host Cherry Blossom Festival again this year. The winter festival is going to be a 3-day event starting on 17th November. The festival is organized to promote tourism in the region and is a great event for music lovers. This year also many famous international music bands are going to perform at the event. The festival also showcases the culture, food and heritage of the state of Meghalaya and its people. The festival hosts several competitions for singing, fashion shows, cosplay, local winemaking, food etc.
During the Cherry Blossom Festival, you will be amazed to see the mesmerizing beauty of the Cherry Blossom flowers, the warmth of the people, and the local culture.

Majuli Rass Mahotsav

Event dates: 21st November – 24th November, 2023. Venue: Majuli, Aassam

Majuli Raas Mahotsav is a four-day festival that celebrates the life of Lord Krishna through using folk dances, masks, songs and dance dramas. Every year it is organised on the largest river island in the world, located in Assam, Majuli. This world's largest river island on the Brahmaputra River attracts tourists from all over the world.

The festival is organized by the various satras of Majuli, which are the centres of Vaishnavite art and culture. The festival creates an atmosphere of devotional feelings among the visitors, with the surroundings, raas celebrations and performances. The festival attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the country and abroad, who come to witness the rich and colourful cultural heritage of Majuli.

Majuli Raas Mahotsav is not only a religious festival but also a celebration of the unique identity and diversity of Majuli. The festival also displays the craftsmanship and creativity of the local people, who make handmade props, costumes and decorations for the performances.

Hornbill Festival

Event dates: 1st December – 10th December, 2023. Venue: Kisama Heritage Village, Kohima, Nagaland

This mega event is organized every year to celebrate Naga Culture, traditions and Heritage. The Hornbill Festival is held in Nagaland, a state in the northeastern part of India for 10 days to showcase the culture and heritage of the Naga people, tribal culture, food, traditional dress and lifestyle. Many tribes from the Naga community participate in this festival, showcasing the diversity and unity of the Naga tribes.

The festival will start on the 1st of December at the Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. Apart from enjoying cultural performances, visitors can also enjoy and experience different adventure activities and indulge in traditional food and drinks.

Orange Festival Dambuk

Event dates: 14th December – 17th December, 2023. Venue: Dambuk, Arunachal Pradesh

The Orange Festival takes place in Dambuk, a small town situated in the Lower Dibang Valley district of the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. Located in the stunning hills of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh, Dambuk is famous for producing some of the best oranges in the country.

The Orange Festival Dambuk is a popular music and adventure festival in Northeast India, first celebrated in 2015.

Dambuk, located about 30 km from the district capital Roing in the Lower Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh, is known for its sweet, fragrant, and juicy oranges. It's also known as the orange bowl of the state and is gaining international recognition for producing some of the best oranges in the country.

How to plan your upcoming trip within India

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Tue, 7 Feb 2023 21:08:00 -0800

How to plan your upcoming trip to India

If you are planning a trip in the next few days or months, here are a few tips that might help design your dream vacation. Some Pre-planning can make a considerable difference in your upcoming tour.

The winter months are uplifting us to set some major goals, such as pre-planned winter trips which could give a sense of holiday mood and relaxation. We can do smooth planning with some pro tips on itinerary design and implementing them into reality.

Here are a few steps we can follow while planning a trip to India

Make a Wishlist & add destinations to your list
Contemplate your travel plan
Choose service providers
Read reviews of other travellers
Prebooking or the right time to confirm services
Some travel tips

Make a wishlist & add destinations to your list

A wishlist is a must-needed item in trip planning. It gives clarity to our thoughts, and we can manifest our dream destination into reality. A wish list cannot be made within a few days, some of us may have a wish list from many years and carry that with many evaluations.

Wishlist is a motivational factor to execute and push ourselves toward the desired goals. Many of us write about our dreams, goal, and plans. It is a good habit that boosts our inner belongings to exist and pursue something which may last for a long duration.

Contemplate your travel plan

A planning stage can start at any time or date, but we sometimes don’t have time to sit down to make a few serious decisions. Reading other travellers' blogs and gathering info beforehand is a great way to scan a few ideas and sketch our plans. We may keep multiple options open and decide on a trip according to our budget, and interest. We can look for the season’s trend and peep into the recent holiday Instagram images of peer groups.

Choose service providers

Looking for Service providers who can just manage everything is a critical process. A pro organiser who can provide multiple services under one roof sometimes gives carefree travel experiences. So, look for a known brand or can contact someone who is an expert in this field.

Few services can be fixed through hotels such as arrival & departure transfers, local sightseeing etc.

Read reviews of other travellers

Reading reviews of other travellers might be helpful before arrival. A quick virtual glimpse can be taken from other travellers’ shared experiences and photographs. Critical unheard information can be picked up from those reviews. Read at least 10 different reviews and check their opinions and advice to reach any conclusion.

Prebooking or the right time to confirm services

If you are travelling on highly demanding dates or seasons, booking 7-15 days in advance can give you a comfortable booking window and you can place most of the desired reservations as per choice and schedule. On normal days if there is a lean season it is always better to check last min deals and other special offers.

Some travel tips

Keep a checklist handy, add a few items to the list such as your passport, visa, international driving license, travel maps( google map can do the job), flight tickets, travel insurance, medical prescriptions, etc. Another important thing is a mini travel kit which includes travel essentials. An affordable mobile data pack for browsing and checking all necessary content when required. And then pack your bags.

Exploring the World of Roadside Dining: Highway Meals

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 23:07:00 -0700

Road food ideas and comfort foods

Highway food always fascinates many of us, whether hungry or not stopping at an outlet, especially at a roadside Dhaba to try some local delicacies is a way to indulge in a great trip experience.

When talking about a journey on a highway it is normally going to be a long journey, for any long journey, quickly fixing the early morning breakfast and leaving it on the go are ways for most of us.

This is always a priority in my travel planning and agenda, and also brings a lot of excitement to start a new trip.

I believe many households have their go-to meals for journeys, some prefer to keep dry-packed items to munch and some people love their home-cooked journey food recipes which are easy to carry and eat on a break during a journey. But eating at a highway outlet has advantages, and trying new dishes is another thing not to miss out on.

I normally search for some local delicacies from the menu while placing an order at a highway food outlet, which they prepare with locally grown/produced ingredients and vegetables or poultry.

I can't tell you how much I loved a freshwater fish curry at an eatery en route to Guwahati on the national highway.

Plenty of Dhaba provides locally grown rice, vegetables, freshwater fish, free-range chicken, etc. The free range of chickens is perfect for our health, and a great source of protein, vitamin D, and minerals.

I am especially fond of thali which comes with a few bhajis, salad, rice, dal, green herbs, pickles, fish, and a meat dish. Sweet dishes are normally not included in the thali but are not an issue that can be eaten later in the journey, which is another expedition searching for good sweet shops on the highway.

Just forgot to mention that some ethnic outlets serve rice wrapped in a unique leaf that holds the aroma of rice and keeps it warm for some time.

Normally preparing all seasonal vegetables in a single day and presenting them on a platter is a huge task and tiring too. Then why not just look for a place that serves the purpose, a special seasonal meal thali right before us.

Try some tandoori roti or naan along with dal Tarka or dal Makhani, which is a must in a Dhaba-like outlet. Another favourite is trying their tea if the milk is pure and locally sourced. Milk tea is not a healthy option for people with stomach ailments, but it is a way to relax and replenish energy for tea lovers.

Travel Tip

It is always good to carry a travel kit for self-hygiene such as a sensitizer, paper napkin, toilet sheet, spray, etc. Toilets are normally clean but can’t expect a 5-star facility so it is better to keep your travel-friendly kit for use.

Winter delights

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 03:45:00 -0800

Relish this winter with winter delights from mouth-watering tempting hot to sweet dishes.

A bowl of hot Thukpa, is the healthiest version of the noodle recipes that I prefer to eat. Some vegetables and some green herbs are added to fulfill the need for digestive fiber along with meat protein in it, a balanced diet meal for the winters. The soupy noodles can be eaten any time, can fit in breakfast, in lunch, and also for dinner. Some amazing Thukpas I tried in McLeod Ganj, Dilli Haat, and Tibetan market in North Delhi.

Gajar Ka Halwa is my favorite sweet dish in winter. My sweet tooth enjoys this and so I always expedite the search for this dish in the winter season. The taste of the Halwa matters a lot on the quality of Gajar, khowa, and of course on the ghee. A hot bowl of Gajar ka Halwa is a pure delight and irreplaceable on this list.

A hot bowl of Sarson ka saag with some butter in it and eating this combination with Makki ki roti is all about that I can ruminate for a healthy meal for lunch. Normally saag is advised to eat in the daytime. Green saag is extremely beneficial for our health and also a good source of fiber and minerals. The best way to enjoy it is by sitting at an open Dhaba on the highway under some sunlight.

Some juicy Kebabs are the ultimate delight in chilling winter nights. Don't miss a chance to eat sitting next to a fireplace or just next to the coal grill. Adding a rumali roti completes the dinner.

Ice cream in chilling December during the Christmas time, yes is awesome as the ice cream doesn't melt. Enjoy every bite of the ice cream. A rickshaw ride holding a cream in hand beating cold waves is a thrilling experience.

Momos are everyone's favorite Tibetan food. A variety of momos are being created as a fusion apart from a traditional recipe. But my choice is still the steam momos, which I feel are slightly healthier for the stomach, and light to eat at any time. My favorite is mutton steam momos. I tested some delicious and super juicy mutton momos at a Tibetan restaurant in McLeod Ganj.

How can I forget to mention a bowl of hot and sour soup in the list? In winter this is the best food to warm the body and beat the cold for a few hours. Have tested hot and sour soups in many restaurants but still remember the taste of the delicious soup enjoyed in Shillong.

Mutton Paya Soup, this soup was super healthy and an energy booster. It instantly energizes the body and feels like I could climb a few 100 steps. This happened to me in McLeod Ganj, when I was suddenly discovered on the street. Initially, I was just looking at the vendor from a distance thinking 💭 that what is he selling. After some time I realized it was mutton legs soup. I couldn't resist and took a bowl of it. It was tasty and healthy.

Some sesame laddu, gajak, and gond laddu are the best bites with a cup of hot tea. They can replace biscuits and cookies during the winter months. Especially before and after the Lohri, they are prepared in households. And munching some mumfali in the evening is another favorite item to spend some time on chit-chat.

I tend to eat more during the winter months. As the liquid intake is less in winter, the inclination towards quick bites at intervals increases. Some chocolate cravings, eating some soft and sponge chocolate truffles, and also testing Christmas plum cake are a few tempting treats during winters.

The mighty Brahmaputra River

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 07:26:00 -0700

The Mighty Brahmaputra River

A tour covering a few famous bridges in Assam - Saraighat, Kalia Bhomora, Dhola Sadiya, and Bogibeel Bridge over the mighty Brahmaputra and its tributary Lohit River.

The Brahmaputra river is the lifeline of the region, people inhabiting both sides of the banks of the river are highly dependent on it for agriculture, fish, and irrigation.

About this mighty river

The Brahmaputra plain is a narrow valley surrounded by Arunachal hill, Bhutan, Patkai range, Naga hills, Karbi Plateau, and Meghalaya Plateau. 32 major tributaries of the Brahmaputra control the natural water distribution of the region.

The mighty river has a large number of tributaries both on the north and south banks. Saraighat bridge connects Guwahati city to other parts of India by surface, it is a double-decker bridge with both roadway and railway tracks allowing millions of people to reach the commercial hub of northeast India, Guwahati.

Important places on the bank of the river

Guwahati is situated on the bank of the river Brahmaputra and is surrounded by hills. Guwahati is one of the fastest developing cities in India for the last two decades, it is also a historically important place and was known as Pragjyotishpur in ancient India. Many ancient temples in and around Guwahati have historically been significant. Kamakhya temple, Navagraha temple, Doul Govinda, Basistha Ashram, and Umananda temple ( situated on the smallest river island of the world, peacock island) are the main attractions for pilgrimage tours. Ambubachi Mela is held every year in Kamakhya Temple and millions of devotees from all over the country attend this Mela.

Brahmaputra river cruises are gaining immense popularity among locals and travelers. Floating restaurants are some amazing attractions for evenings. For people who love to explore cultural sneak peek on a single visit then Sankardev Kalakshetra is the best place to see the displays.

Another bridge, Kalia Bhomora Setu on the Brahmaputra, connects Tezpur to other parts of the state. After a trip to Kaziranga National Park, one can do a day trip to Agnigarh, a hillock situated on the bank of Brahmaputra in Tezpur, very well known for its legendary stories of princess Usha and Aniruddha, the grandson of Lord Krishna.

The newly constructed Bogibeel bridge, inaugurated in 2018, has greatly impacted the localities of three districts in Assam Dibrugarh, Dhemaji, and Lakhimpur. Completion of the bridge has opened all possible accessibility between these places, another smooth connectivity to Arunachal Pradesh, and also given beautiful tourist spots. Many visitors come to see this picturesque location and enjoy the scenic beauty. We also explored a floating restaurant on the riverbank, another attraction of the visit.

Dibrugarh is a major commercial town in upper Assam. It is well connected to other places in the country by railway and air services. Dibrugarh District is famous for evergreen tea gardens and tea cultivations. The district has 177 tea gardens, which dominate a huge chunk of tea production in the state.

Image credit: Suman

10 interesting summer holiday ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 20:00:00 -0700

10 activities that may occupy you in the Summer holidays!

1. In summers most of us become early risers, so starting a day with morning rituals can improve our daily routines and lifestyles. Few activities can be included in the mornings such as yoga and meditation, morning walks, or some physical exercises.

2. Cooking is one of the best activities to engage ourselves and relax the mind from any chaotic situation or routine and also from boredom.

3. Some DIY projects can be explored with craft items to create or revamp decor pieces.

4. Reading a few new novels can be a great idea to enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

5. Photoshoots for your Instagram post 📷 and stories is also an interesting activity to love. During this phase of our life, it's great to get connected with our near and dear ones through social media platforms.

6. Connect with nature and utilize the leisurely time to enjoy the surroundings. Looking at trees, maintaining a flower garden, sitting under the clear sky, and breathing some fresh air.

7. We normally forget to list down our personal care routine. In summers our skin and body need extra care. So maintaining a skincare regime and pampering ourselves with different natural ingredients and treatment will be great endeavors.

8. Taking a drive to a nearby destination can break the monotony on long summer days.

9. Arranging our wardrobe and planning for new clothing ideas can also occupy us for some time.

10. Taking out some work that we missed on our busy schedules can motivate us to finish an unfinished task.

Heritage walk! Visit to four important monuments in India.

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 22:58:00 -0800

Having a long stay close to nature and living a life with daily rituals.

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Sat, 19 Dec 2020 04:45:00 -0800

Days are short and the nights are long, as we enjoy the winter season many things in our daily life need to be done promptly. Holiday bliss in a hill station or a remote location during the winters is the best way to enjoy the season fully. Small properties in the hill stations or any remote location can be considered as the best way to plan a long holiday without disturbing a budget and not spoiling the desired vacation experience. During the pandemic, many of us may have taken workation in a remote location and spent a long duration. Getting quality alternative accommodation with good facilities and a garden is an expectation for many of us.

Finding a place like that is wealth for people who believe in this concept. As we need our space and tranquility around us to focus on our work and daily routine along with health and fitness. A place where we don't have to compromise on our food habits or rituals, a comfortable place fulfilling basic daily needs such as a small kitchen, attached bathroom, small area for managing office work in the bedroom or living area, a small balcony or sitting area with an open and beautiful nature view. That's all we can expect when thinking of basic accommodation for workation.

Many of us might look for a long stay considering from one month to 6 months stay in a particular place so it could be a mini home. If a small garden area is attached to that mini home, nothing like that, it's an additional facility and benefit for the stay. In today's lifestyle, many people are concerned about health and fitness, performing morning walks, doing a yoga session, meditation, and daily exercise is a part of the everyday ritual.

Especially in hill stations, you have plenty of options to explore and engage yourself with different activities apart from your routine work. Nature can nourish us internally and give us immense happiness in life. We need to see that with an open mind and heart, our complete perception of life will be guided by nature and our surroundings. Perfect vacation at a quiet location can make our minds calm and help us to think positively about all the good or bad experiences in life.

Distance yourself from dedication towards work for a day, why not take a gadget-free break for a day and sit in the garden and have a meal besides, have a short story book or a popular novel that you might think to read. Why not sip a cup of tea or coffee sitting under the bright winter sun and revitalize with daily essential vitamin D. Why not enjoy some time talking to the trees, birds, and flowers around you.

How to search for accommodation that suits your requirements?

*Search for sites that sell long stays and give good deals for alternative accommodation.

*Look for hotels or resorts that also offer rooms for long durations.

* Find destinations that have plenty of available options for stay.

*Can look for a monastery that also runs lodging.

Serene and divine journey in the foothills of Himalaya and the gateway to the Garhwal.

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Thu, 26 Nov 2020 23:25:00 -0800

A boat ride to cross the holy River Ganges and find inner peace.

Again a work-related project landed me in Rishikesh, the city in the Himalayan foothills on the bank of the River Ganges. On this trip, I was aiming to see the famous Parmarth Ashram, cross the River Ganges on a motorboat, walk beside the holy river, and visit the local market apart from sightseeing. My whole trip occurred as per my expectations as I got a good tourist guide cum driver who helped me to complete all plannings that I noted before my trip.

It was a group tour as we all had an ABM in Rishikesh for that year. The tempo traveler was full with my co-workers from the Delhi office and other branch offices from different cities. As it was a long journey of almost 6 to 7 hours so we had stopped twice at roadside food outlets for refreshments and snacks. The tempo driver was finding it difficult to adjust the music as per various choices of my fellow travelers, we all had different likings and demands for songs.

With some amazing music and roadside treats like eating pakoras, masala tea, lassi, etc we finally reached the destination.

About the stay and overview from the resort, evening view, and local cuisine experience.

We all stayed at a riverside resort and experienced an incredible time during the stay. We all checked in there at around 4 pm and had some evening snacks and tea by the poolside restaurant. Then I observed an evening aarti performance on a riverbank just by standing at a corner of the garden area in the resort. Then a dinner party was being organized at a campsite adjacent to the resort. We all were taken to that on our respective vehicles that arrived from different zones and cities. Some wonderful live music performances enlightened the atmosphere. After dinner, we all headed back to the resort.

The next morning I thought of attending a yoga session but wasn't able to do so. Then after a walk in the garden and roaming at the infinity pool area, I returned to my room as I was required to get ready for the meet and presentation. I had a very nice lavish breakfast with a huge variety of items on the buffet.

After one full-day session on the first day, we had a half-day session on the second day. So all of us got some time to explore places in and around Rishikesh. I went to another hotel which was very near to the river and enjoyed some amazing views from their restaurant while enjoying some meals. They also organize meditation workshops and have an Ayurvedic spa.

The next day we had time for a half-day city tour or rafting, so I decided to do a city tour instead. I had planned to visit the Parmarth Ashram, so without any second thought, I started the day with a visit to the famous ashram.

I crossed the river on a motorboat and then had a long walk through narrow streets and markets. I had been guided inside the ashram to see the place. Many visitors came here to see the sunset Ganga aarti on the river bank. That is a divine experience for a lifetime. While returning I picked up 2 jute bags and a few small handmade souvenirs. Also took a walk on Laxman jhula. Walking on the ghat, eating some chana jor garam, was a relaxing moment that will remain refreshed in my mind for a long time.

I had a buffet lunch at the resort and checked out from there. We all returned on that day with lots of good memories and experiences.

Rishikesh is also known as the yoga capital of the world. International yoga festival is being celebrated in the city during March every year. Rishikesh hosts a large number of Indian and international tourists each year. Rishikesh is also very famous for white water rafting and adventure activities such as bungee jumping. The city is only 244 km away from the national capital Delhi, 46 km from Uttarakhand capital Dehradun, and 26 km from Haridwar. Few important places to visit in Rishikesh are Laxman jhula, Ram jhula, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, and evening aarti at Triveni Ghat.

Creamy Banana shake, Bhim banana (scientific name Musa balbisiana Colla)

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 06:58:00 -0800

RECIPE

Creamy Banana Shake

Ready in 10 minutes

Serves 3 people

Ingredients

6 Bhim Bananas
300 ml of milk
Few cashews
Raisins
Cherries

Creamy Banana shake, Bhim banana (scientific name Musa balbisiana Colla commonly known as Bhimkol or Athiyakol in Assamese)

Preparation

Use 6 medium-sized ripe Bhim bananas, wash all bananas before removing the peel then peel off the soft top layer with the help of a knife, leave seeds, and inside portion.
Keep all peeled soft top portions aside, and add that to the blending jar then pour 300 ml milk into the jar and blend well to get a good creamy consistency, if required extra milk can be added.
Garnish banana shake glasses with cashews, raisins, and cherries.
It can be served at room temperature or cold.

Tips

For smooth consistency use chilled milk or room temperature milk as per the season. Don't put it in the Refrigerator.

Top 10 Winter Holidays for you, amazing travel tips for this season!

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 05:33:00 -0700

1. Every year in Northern India all National Parks are being opened for visitors and park safaris. A winter break experiencing a wildlife safari vacation at one of the National Parks is an ideal holiday plan for the season.

2. Visiting a desert destination like Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Osian could be a great choice for the winter holidays. Enjoying the sunset in dune and a camel ride, residing in a tent, and visiting to see iconic palaces and monuments in and around will be some incredible experiences.

3. Skiing in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh is another winter activity that can be a great idea for people who love to do adventure activities. Places like Auli, Solang Valley are popular for Skiing.

4. Doing a village tour or a tribal tour expedition could be a new way to connect with nature and unexplored destinations. A tour to Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland for this kind of expedition is a lifetime experience.

5. River cruise tour on the mighty Brahmaputra River in Assam is one of the best River cruise tours in India. The tour is a delightful treat for any tourist, this luxury holiday offers a unique experience, eye-catching views of the world's broadest river and its surroundings.

6. Heritage walks- visiting Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Mandwa could be on the list as the winters are the best season for a trip to these destinations which are the epitome of cultural heritage.

7. Visiting a destination with colonial charm during winters is amazing, specifically at Christmas time. A destination like Shillong in Meghalaya can be imagined for this kind of experience.

8. Backwater houseboat trip in Alleppey and Kumarakom in Kerala is one of the best leisurely holidays to enjoy a cozy houseboat, local delicacies, and a soothing view of backwaters.

9. Short cycling trips from a resort or a hotel in winter are an excellent idea to have some adventure in life. Some cycling expeditions can be done in a tea garden area, on a destination in the Himalayan foothills, or down towards south India.

10. Farm tourism and homestays in remote locations are becoming more popular nowadays. People living in cities love to see and experience life in and around farming areas. Homestays are among the best available options for this kind of tour. Few resorts and hotels built upon these concepts also encourage farm tourism.

My favorite cup of tea, tea plantation and understanding Tea Tourism.

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Sun, 27 Sep 2020 09:30:00 -0700

Mornings with a cup of tea along with the choice of flavor in it has no replacement for many of us. Just to open the eyes wider and land in the real world from a dream world, the magic lies in a cup of tea. Tea is available in most households in some forms and is part of our lifestyles. Enjoying a cup of tea with biscuits or snacks is an everyday ritual for most of us.

Tea cultivation has a long history in our country. Way back in 1820 Britishers started the first tea plantation in Assam. In 1837 the first tea garden was established in Assam and then the tea company started commercial productions and distributions.

Indian-grown tea was very popular among Britishers. In a very short period, it has gained popularity all over the world and India has become the largest tea producer in the world. India is famous for Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri teas.

The popularity of Organic tea and green tea has increased all over the world in the last few years for numerous health benefits. Organic tea is grown without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, etc. The tea is very rich in polyphenol, a natural compound that reduces inflammation and helps fight against cancer.

Green tea is now a necessity for every health-conscious person. Green tea is made from Camellia Sinensis leaves and buds. Different reports and medical experts say there are many benefits of drinking green tea such as help reduce weight, good for the skin, slow down aging, lower the risk of some types of cancer, and good for a healthy life.

In India, there are many variations of tea-making methods and flavors that are popular among tea lovers. Such as Masala Tea, Ginger Tea, Various types of herbal tea, Kawa Tea, Salted tea, black tea are a few to be mentioned.

A day visit to a tea garden, visit a tea factory, understand tea garden culture, tea tourism, and the popularity among tea enthusiasts and travelers.

It was a long drive on narrow lanes from the highway and then I saw greenery around me, a large land from there one can only see tea trees and nothing else. Tea garden workers plucking tea leaves can be seen at a distance, it is a completely different world and lifestyle from city, town, and village life. One can cut off from the rest of the world by spending time in isolation while roaming around the tea garden areas.

I had also got a chance to visit a tea garden factory as my family friends live there and so we went inside the premises to see tea processing units and how they are set inside the plantation. The lifestyle of tea garden workers still gives us a thought of the British era, colonial setup, and the beginning of tea cultivation in that regime. Whether it is their working hours, tea breaks, or the long siren that can be heard in fixed intervals.

Tea tourism has brought many tourists from all over the world to India. This segment has a huge potential to contribute to tourism growth in India. Assam, Darjeeling, and Munnar host a few thousand visitors every year who go there for tea tourism. Staying at a tea bungalow and visiting a tea plantation has its charm for visitors. Also, many other activities are being organized and showcase for this kind of tours such as interaction with local people to know more about tea garden culture, cycling expeditions, homestays, folk song, and dance performance, tea testing, etc are highlights of this kind of tours.

A few steps for revival of tourism industry!

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 00:33:00 -0700

The sudden change that arrived at the starting of this year had shaken some pillars of the tourism industry, the impact of the period is yet to be received in the coming few months. The Forecasts are not that great, experts from all over the world are hopeful and trying their level best to strengthen weak areas, revive, and smooth functioning of the entire system.

Analytics insert a ray of hope into our lives every single day, it carries a vision that is intangible but achievable in different phases, it compels different minds to work together and to move towards the betterment of a vision. Graphs always visualize trends, and it also pushes everyone to see minute details that have positive forecasts and can bring valuable outcomes. Great products, great thinkers, great proactive approaches, excellent forecasting abilities, dedication, excellent idea creators on marketing, a strong sales force, hard-working individuals, visionaries, excellent guidance, patience, wisdom, and 360-degree planners always keep the graphs moving. A flat line for a few months of the year can't stop these forces to overcome an unforeseen situation.

Prayers of many households and individuals are with the analytics. Analytics will do some magic and will brighten the spectrum.

As a basic exercise and recollecting some experiences from previous slowdown situations. I am looking at some steps which could come out to be beneficial for small to medium business establishments.
The pandemic has shaken the whole concept of tourism and travel trends. Every product needs to follow new norms. Whether it is hygiene, SOP (standard operating procedure), new gadgets (electronic as well as manual), amenities, etc, basically every product is experiencing a change under the new normal situations. Many management or product owners understand changes and demands related to the new normal scenario and bear the cost and supply to revive them-self in the long run. Maybe, most of them treat these as an additional cost not considered in any budget prepared before the year 2020, so hard to accommodate that at an extensive level. But the whole situation is such that they are bearing the cost to run and sustain their products in their existing markets.

Planning and working on the right data. Will the right data help?

New situations are surely affecting the seasonal pricing of most products in the tourism Industry. Whether it is mid-range establishments or a small business. A price that gives a customer to rethink a decision or investment is vital at this point. At any stage of the week, month, and year pricing strategies will play a crucial role to revive. Good revenue management is the backbone of an organization and the operating system. Understanding the correct sentiments and trends of the core customer base is a key component of revenue management policies and implementations. Whether offers, promotions, packages, customer benefits, reward programs all need to be re-exercised understanding the current customer focus and the ongoing situation in the phase.

Every pricing activity needs to be designed according to geographic depth as some of the existing markets are not performing during this period. A detailed exercise is needed for establishments to set up pricing as per the brand value with valuable input on demographic details. A revamp on the backend strategies and reworking on data to plan and decide new road maps could be an important exercise that most of the setups are looking at.

Creating product demand at the initial stage of inception is far more different from an existing and aged product. Promotion strategies cannot stick to only fixed patterns and schedules. Everything needs to be robust and dynamic. A 360-degree promotional activity calendar is needed to get the right campaign done at the right time. Whether it is digital or offline. Will offline promotions help? That is a big thing to review and monitor, specifically operating channels.

Traditional distribution channels cannot be ignored which are prominently associated with sales. At any change or circumstances, few channels will struggle to survive at their capacity (that is the emotional strength of the entire system which encourages them to survive) and those channels cannot be missed out for quickly channelizing distribution plans in place. In B2B channels, the distribution experiences have certain benefits, such as channelizing products into a larger sales circle and quick approaches to reach targeted customers with less expenditure. B2B channels always work when long-term benefits are given to channels such as good commission, incentives, and discounts on targeted sales. So many exercises can be performed within calls or email exchanges or on chats, approaches through B2B platforms are fast and cost-effective.

Consumer-centric activities generate awareness and better penetration of the market on their capacity. Consumers' tastes, understanding, interests, and behavior of procurement vary from time to time. Working on large data which can be divided further to generate and use in different product concepts is important for this segment. On direct sales consumer data plays a big role, the genuine and quality (fresh, up-to-date, old but quality data) also have the potential for productivity and larger benefits. At some point in time the data may look small, but channelizing that data with many valuable sales techniques can bring larger and regular potential customers.

Many tips and suggestions work depending on a close study of the data that has been identified and collected from different source points.

10 Tips for planning weekend getaways!

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 07:25:00 -0700

1.Choose a destination that is easily reachable and has good connectivity with your city/town.

2. Opt for a less crowded place and leisurely destination for ultimate relaxation, enjoyable holiday, and tranquility.

3. Go for online bookings to get last-minute offers which is the best way to get good deals for frequent travelers.

4. Can opt for alternative accommodations such as Luxury camps, Eco camps, Villas, Bungalows, Apartments, Homestays, Guesthouses, etc.

5. Use small luggage instead of heavy bags and trolleys. Backpack trolleys are a good choice for weekend getaways.

6. Try to book buffet meals instead of A` la carte for breakfast and dinner. This is a best practice for regular travelers visiting a leisure destination.

7. Get some quick snacks and dry fruits handy along with other travel essentials.

8. Keeping in mind while taking a break from busy life and schedules, try to include outdoor sports, hiking, adventure sports, etc on weekend trips.

9. If you are planning to do some meditation, and a healthy holistic approach in the stay, then search for accommodations with facilities like Spa, Yoga sessions, infinity swimming pool, Organic food, etc.

10. Read customer reviews online regarding the accommodation& facilities before confirming a booking with them to get better and actual facilities and value for money services.

360 degree view of Naini Lake, a Kumaoni style dinner and many more things on my two trips.

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Wed, 5 Aug 2020 07:01:00 -0700

Here I am remembering two very memorable journeys to the lake town Nainital. I experienced a solo journey and a small group tour. I normally don't prefer to travel alone but sometimes it works well for a single destination. Conducting training in Nainital had fulfilled my small desire to be on a solo trip. Train journey on a chair car was comfortable, as I reached on time by almost noon then a one hour journey by car from the Kathgodam railway station to the resort. When I opened the door of my lake view room, all the dos and don’ts had left my mind for a few hours. I couldn't stop myself sitting in the garden area and sipping a few cups of black coffee. I thoroughly enjoyed the sunset and also witnessed every single light of the town sparkled in the dark evening. As I was staying at a hilltop resort it gave me a beautiful 360-degree view around the Naini lake.

I couldn't resist sitting next to a bonfire and enjoying some live music performed by local musicians. There was no special playlist in my mind but the entire atmosphere was so mindful that any music can make you feel mixed with the vibe completely. A Kumaoni style dinner and some barbecue chicken had added the remaining flavor to my taste buds and mood.

Taking a morning walk and counting different varieties of flowers blooming in the property was the activity that I did after a long hectic schedule I had for the past few months. A day-long training and evening relaxation at the lakeside had made my day.

On my next visit, I had a great time exploring the town with my friend and fellow traveler. We were there to observe a sailing festival, got to see many excellent sailing performances from expert sailors coming from all over India. The Governor of the state was also there as a guest to encourage the event and present prizes to winners.

My friend and I had taken long walks on the streets, and enjoyed shopping and eating at the downtown market. While returning to the resort my friend realized that she left her mobile phone in the cafe. She found the mobile at the cafe and we headed back. Evening in the lakeside resort has the beauty to celebrate and enjoy. The next morning we did a short hike in the nearby hills with some packed breakfast.

Few lines about Nainital:

Nainital is famous for Naini Lake and the beautiful views of the Himalayan range of mountains. It’s a popular hill station in India, tourists from all over India love to come here and spend quality time and enjoy the scenic beauty of this Himalayan town. It has its old colonial charm and rich history. Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, Nainital is about 285 km away from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, and 345 km from Delhi.

Places to visit in Nainital:

For every tourist, a visit to Nainital Yacht Club is an important outdoor activity while exploring the town. The Nainital Yacht Club is situated by the Boat House Club and was founded in 1910. Tourists can enjoy a sailing session during the day. Other important tourist spots are Naini Peak, Naina Devi Temple, St. John’s Wilderness Church, Snow View Point, Tiffin Top, Mall road, Tibetan Market, etc.

Best time to visit Nainital:

From March to June is considered to be the peak period for tourist movement in Nainital, during monsoon it observes a lean period but again from September onward tourists movement increases. Nainital also gets snowfalls in winters, many people come to enjoy the winter vacations and the festive periods.

Retrieving my cooking skills during the lockdown period, having some special moments in year 2020!

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 07:45:00 -0700

The year 2020 has taken us on a roller coaster ride so far. Every second, minute, and hour on the clock is becoming longer as we are experiencing lockdown periods for more than 100 days. Life has changed for every individual since we started the phase and tried to understand the call of nature. Passing days are different from our expected ones.

The lockdown period has given all of us different experiences in life which we never thought of. We never imagined that we all will have such restrictions in our life suddenly because of an unforeseen situation. The whole world is moving towards the virtual world. In some movies, those kinds of imaginations happened but we never thought that we are the generation who will experience these situations. Whenever we thought that picture in mind that came out to be a future, which might happen 50 or 100 years later.

Every individual has skilled themselves again to beat boredom and loneliness. Social media, Tiktok, youtube are loaded with posts and videos. Everyone tried their unique ways to entertain and engage with each other.

I as an individual have not been able to gather some extraordinary skills. But after some posts on social media, I realized that I do have some skills in cooking and do my bit of gourmet techniques.

A culinary journey that starts reading about cuisines and their routes, preparation methods, uses of spices and herbs, and finally, the imagination of creating that in the kitchen is a wonderful feeling.

Starting from making different types of pakoras on rainy days to have with masala tea in the evening, a cold chocolate cake to celebrate my birthday during the lockdown period. Some authentic cuisines like shahi urad dal, Nargisi Kabab, Dahi Kabab, Shami Kabab, Chicken Dum Biryani, Shahi Paneer, etc. Made some tasty and healthy Falafel and egg rolls.

Also tried my hand in making sweet dishes such as Mung dal Halwa, Kaddu Kheer, Lauki Kheer, Atta Ka Halwa, Sweet Seviyan, Phirni, Black Rice Kheer, Rasgulla, Fruit Dessert with curd, etc.

Culinary journeys have their own stories to recite. My journey had started a long time back but I rediscovered it during the lockdown period. Every dish, each thali has its unique identity and tastes, and a lot more to explore. I would like to share my experiences in some of my upcoming blogs.

For now, cooking delicious food and reading culinary write-ups are some best activities that I can do to engage myself during this phase. It motivated me a lot and probably helped me to overcome any depressing situation that could have entered my life. We all have our hobbies and skills, now the time is to rediscover them and enjoy the beautiful life gifted by the almighty.

Here are a few glimpses of dishes that I prepared and enjoyed eating during the past few months.

Surajkund Mela. A visit to explore and buy my favorite handicraft items.

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Fri, 29 May 2020 06:12:00 -0700

I was always residing near the Surajkund area but had not received a chance to visit the Surajkund Mela extensively. Every time I planned it but due to some office hours and busy schedules, all my plans got dropped. I still remember how all my female colleagues planned to visit the mela from the office for a few hours but that never happened.

The mela has received immense popularity among all age groups of people because of its platform of displaying a vivid collection of handicrafts developed in different states of India and abroad. The colorful atmosphere is a good choice to spend a day observing and buying some unique handcrafted items as per our personal choices and needs.

If you are an admirer of bohemian decor ideas then this mela a perfect choice to explore beautiful pieces to decor each corner of your house. You name the item and you will get it here with unique work on it. My bargaining qualities are not that good but some skills can be applied to get better deals. I did that to buy some junk jewelry.

What can be done on a day visit to the Fair?

Apart from shopping, there are a few things which are relaxing and enjoyable. Like folk music and dance performances by artists from various states of India, and also different kinds of joy rides for adults and children. Special performances by renowned artists and music bands were also part of the event.

Many food stalls were set up during the period to serve authentic Indian cuisine. Also one can venture into enjoying and buying food and craft items from different International participants displaying their traditional things. At least 20 countries participated in this year.

What can we buy for home decor?

The fair is a great choice for people who love to buy unique beautiful Craft items for home decorations. Wooden, Tera cotta, Clay, Ceramic, Cane, Bamboo, Metal all types of products are available here at reasonable prices.

Small coffee tables, chairs, stools, metal and wooden frame mirrors, wooden trays, pots, flower vases, handmade artificial flowers, lamps, Cane chairs, bamboo decorative items are a few to be mentioned. You will get a variety of items for patio and outdoor garden decorations.

I also checked pillow covers, bed sheets, rugs, quilts, cotton canvas printed table mats for my uses.

What can we buy from handloom stores and jewelry?

I saw almost all the states of India display their traditional handloom items. All products are fresh and of good quality. Kanchipuram silk sarees, Mysore silk sarees, Banarasi silk sarees, Assam silk mekhela chador, shawls, etc were displayed.

You will get fashionable junk jewelry collections. Beautiful neckpieces, earrings, studs, bracelets, thread work jewelry, etc were displayed at different stalls.

Another interesting thing was, I got a huge variety of jutis there to choose from. Also nice collections of jute bags.

What can we eat there?

I was amazed to enjoy a huge jalebi at the food stall available there. Many food stalls served favorite cuisines from all over India. Starting from Chole Bhature, Pani Puri, Pau Bhaji, Dahi Bhale, Aloo papri chaat, different kinds of sweets, drinks, fire pan, and chaats. Many International vendors also kept their traditional food items on display.

The mega festival is being organized every year in February. The dates are on 1-14 February.

Black Rice Kheer, a delicacy to treat your taste buds!

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Wed, 20 May 2020 02:35:00 -0700

RECIPE

Servings 4-5people| Prep Time 25 mins | Total Time 30 mins

INGREDIENTS

1 cup black rice ( black rice is rich in Antioxidants, Natural Detoxifier, a good source of Fiber, prevent the risk of Diabetes, prevent the risk of Obesity, protein Content, good for Heart Health)

6 tsp / Sugar (or as per taste)

1 cinnamon stick

2 cardamoms

Half liter milk

Few cashews

Few almonds

Few raisins

1 glass of water

DIRECTIONS

Wash the black rice four times, and add water. Put it on the pressure cooker and allow it to cook properly.

On a separate utensil boil the milk, into that added sugar, cinnamon stick, and cardamoms (quantity as mentioned above). After a few minutes add the cooked black rice to the milk, and boil the mixture until you get a slightly thick consistency. Turn off the flame, and add cashews, almonds, and raisins on the top. Keep the Kheer for a few hours and serve cold.

Refreshing Mint Drink for this summer

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Tue, 12 May 2020 00:34:00 -0700

MINT DRINK

RECIPE
Servings 4-5people| Prep Time 15min | Total Time 20 mins
INGREDIENTS

1 Lemon
2 tsp / Sugar
1 tsp / Black Pepper powder
1 tsp / roasted cumin powder
1 tsp / Black salt
1 small piece of Ginger
Few coriander leaves (optional)
Few fresh mint leaves
4 Glasses of water

DIRECTIONS

Wash all fresh ingredients carefully before use. Add all ingredients one by one to the blender jar and add water. Mix well and serve chilled by adding ice cubes.

Magh Bihu or Bhugali Bihu | This is the harvest festival celebrated by Assamese people.

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 08:42:00 -0700

Magh Bihu or Bhugali Bihu - this is the harvest festival celebrated by Assamese people.

Magh Bihu or Bhugali Bihu is the harvest festival celebrated by the Assamese people. The festival has much significance on its own and is one of the enjoyable celebrations for all age groups. The celebrations start on makar Sankranti which is called 'uruka', a day before the primary occasion.

In this winter festival, many sweets are prepared from rice flour, jaggery, sesame seeds, and coconut on the day of the Uruka. At night neighbors and family members get together in an open area, cook dinner for all and enjoy the meal with Bihu songs and dances.

The importance of this festival

Magh Bihu has equal importance to that of Bohag Bihu, which is celebrated in the month of April. On Magh Bihu traditional sweets are prepared to offer among the community gathering in front of the 'Mejii', with huge firewood built with the support of bamboo in a pointed pyramid shape.

Magh Bihu Memories

Magh Bihu's memories from childhood are still fresh in my mind. How we used to celebrate Magh Bihu in our colony along with aunties, uncles, and their children. We can see all of them arriving in the guest house complex a few days before the celebration to discuss the celebration expenses and contribution towards that. Also, they distribute the duties among themselves. Such as cooking duties, vegetable chopping, shopping, tent arrangements, gas arrangements, chairs, and other miscellaneous arrangements.

There was another interesting thing that popped up in my mind, on that occasion of dinner after finishing it some people used to stay overnight to guard the 'meji'. Those people have the liberty to steal anything from any household and to enjoy it during the night. Normally they used to steal vegetables from kitchen gardens, bamboo fencings, chickens and ducks, etc. No one used to get punishment for these offenses performed on that night. When we woke up in the morning and noticed that everyone discovered that something was missing from every household.

A few important practices

In the early morning the 'meji' is set on fire by a young boy, and people gather around the fireplace and offer prayers. Different types of traditional sweets are being served to people gathered during that time.

Photo credit: Preety

Alternative Accommodations

noreply@blogger.com (Tacfftales) — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 04:14:00 -0800

Alternative accommodation and its popularity have increased in the last few years especially among millennials. Home Stays, Villas, Bungalows, Guest Houses, Camps, Apartments, Tourist Lodges are few types to be mentioned in this category of accommodation.

There was a time when holidays were being planned well in advance on particular occasions and trends. But because of hectic life schedules and city life hassles, people are planning short vacations more often, especially to more remote areas, national parks, or hill stations. Not only are individual travels increasing, family vacations and group travels are also increasing significantly.

It is not always interesting to stay at hotels or resorts, for some travelers alternative accommodations are also preferred on their list. A lot of people do their bit of research while booking such types of stays. Normally people like to read reviews and follow recommendations before exploring such places. It’s always good to know about the place, what are the advantages or disadvantages of taking an alternative accommodation.

These types of Accommodations are not categorized by their standards, but by their unique identity. They are popular through recommendations by guests and selling agents. Some digital platforms have very good selling methods and they are aggregators of such types of inventories. A big name in this domain is AIRBNB. Many other Indian companies run different aggregated platforms to sell alternative Accommodations to customers.

Why are these sorts of companies preferred by customers?

Many facts drive customers towards them. Search for exploring offbeat destinations, staying with a bunch of family and friends, long stays are a few factors to be mentioned. On long stays where one can prepare meals on their own and in some cases, people want to carry their pet alongside, frequent travelers looking for budget accommodation, etc are few to add on the list.