My India

Kite Festival Uttarayan Ahmedabad Gujarat

2012-01-13T00:26:00.000-08:00

The International Kite Festival in India in Gujarat, known as the festival of Uttarayan, is an annual event hosted by Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It begins a few days before the Festival of Makar Sankranti and culminates on the Makar Sankranti day, which is 14th January. The main venue of the kite festival in Ahmedabad is the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.

In addition to kites from around the country, flying in the sky are unique kites from Malaysia, Indonesia, USA, Japan, China and other countries. Ever seen 500 kits on one single string? Well, you'll get to see it at the festival of Uttarayan! Whether it is a box kite or a sport kite, a kite with a digital image on it or a hand-painted one, you will see them all.

A unique aspect of he festival of Uttarayan is that kites are flown even at night. During the hours after sunset, the sky will be brightened with white kites and kites with tiny lit lanterns along the string. It is a truly beautiful sight to behold!

Visitors can even purchase kites from the famous kite bazaar known as Patang Bazaar, Ahmedabad. This is located in the city's center in an area called Jamalpur [see Google View Larger Map]

2012 Mukteswar Dance Festival

2012-01-11T00:12:00.000-08:00

The Mukteswar Temple at Bhubaneswar, Odisha will be hosting the 2012 Mukteswar Dance Festival this month.

Venue: Mukteswar Temple, Khordha, Gouri Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Orissa

Dates: 14^th to 16^th January 2012

Timings: 6p.m. to 8.30p.m.

2012 Mukteswar Dance Festival programs

14^th January 2012

Shiva Bandana (chorus): Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, Bhubaneswar

Odissi (Solo): Aloka Kanungo, Kolkata

Odissi (Duet): Pravat Swain & Arupa Gayatri Panda, Bhubaneswar

Odissi (Group): Art Vision, Ileana Citarist & Group, Bhubaneswar

15^th January 2012

Shiva Bandana (Chorus): Gopal Chandra Panda & Group

Odissi (Solo): Rahu Acharya, Bhubaneswar

Odissi (Duet): Chittaranjan Acharya & Asmita Acharya, Bhubaneswar

Odissi (Group): “Rudrakshya”, Guru Bichitrananda Swain, Bhubaneswar

16^th January 2012

Shiva Bandana (Chorus): Pt. Raghunath Panigrahi & Group, Bhubaneswar

Odissi (Solo): Madhusmita Mohanty, Bhubaneswar

Oddissi (Duet): Devraj & Ellora Pattnaik, Canada

Odissi (Group): Vaishali Kala Kendra, Jyoti Srivastav & Group, Noida, UP

Contact Information:
Tourist Officer
Paryatan Bhawan,
Lewis Road,
Bhubaneswar Pin - 751014
Ph: 0674-2431299
Toll free: 1800-2097-123
Email: oritour@gmail.com

Visiting Chowmahalla Palace Hyderabad

2011-11-16T01:07:00.001-08:00

The Chowmahalla Palace in Hyderabad is truly an eye-popping splendour. Begun in 1750 by Salabat Jung on a 45 acre site that successive Nizams expanded with additional palaces, the Chowmahalla Palace is the seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty as explained in the information given at the site. It also happens to be the first and most splendid of Asaf Jahi Palaces in Hyderabad.

Information about Mir Osman Ali Khan Asaf Jah VII

1911 abolished the death penalty from civilian criminal code.

1921 – Separated Judiciary from Executive. Took 53 yeas for it to be implemented in the rest of India.

Hyderabad was the only state in British India to coin its own money, have its own postal system and print its own stamps.
Free primary education in State. Set up Osmania University in 1917. It was the first University in the country to have Urdu as primary medium of education with English being the compulsory second language.
Donated to Aligarh Muslim University, Shantiniketan, Shivaji Vidyapeeth, Bhandarkar Institute, Lady Harding Medical College, Red Cross, Golden Temple in Amritsar. Donated last 14,000 acres to Vinoba Bhave’s Bhoodan movement.

What you should not miss: Selaih Khana – Arms & Armour Collection of Asaf Jahi Dynasty (1724 -1949 CE).

Chowmahalla Palace Timings for viewing: 10am -5pm (Closed on Fridays and National Holidays)

Chowmahalla Palace entry tickets price: Indian Visitor - Rs.30/- / International Visitor - Rs.150/-

Additional Facilities: You can book the venue for parties & other celebratory events.

Chowmahalla Palace Contact Information:
Khilwat, 20-4-236,
Motigalli
Hyderabad - 500 002
Ph: +91 40 24522032
E-mail: chowmahallapalace@yahoo.co.in

Visiting Birla Mandir Hyderabad

2011-07-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

One of the many well-know places of worship in Hyderabad is the Birla Mandir, so named because it has been established by the Birla Foundation. The marble temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, while there are individual shrines for the Lord's consorts, namely Andal and Padmavati.

A unique feature of the Birla Mandir, Hyderabad is that there are no traditional temple bells. It is said that the Swamiji who had consecrated this temple had insisted on the absence of bells so as not to disturb the meditative ambience of the temple premises.

Before you enter the temple complex, you need to leave your footwear as well as mobile phones at the counter near the entrance. After you have payed obeseiance to the deity, do climb up to the upper sections - you will get the best views of Hyderabad city from here.

Birla Mandir Hyderabad Temple Timings: 7a.m. to 12noon and 3p.m. to 9p.m.

Birla Mandir Address: The temple is located in the Adarsh Nagar area. You can reach there from Lakdi-ka-pul MMTS (Multi-Modal Transport System) station. The nearest railway station is the Nampally railway station (approx. 3kms.

South Food Corner Hyderabad restaurant review

2011-07-31T06:07:00.000-07:00

The South Food Corner (SFC) restaurant's name as well as its décor is meant to look like KFC. It is a vegetarian restaurant with self service. The restaurant is open 7 days a week, from 7a.m. to 11p.m. Home delivery and catering services for celebratory occasions is also provided by SFC.

South Food Corner Menu: Before you even take a bit of anything, make sure you order filter coffee. The filter coffee here is to die for! If you are looking for something really filling, don't look beyond the uttappa Rs.35/-) - heavy to digest, yes, but lovely to taste. It was large, full of crunchy onions, coriander & green chillies but not over spiced at all.
Besides southern Indian cuisine, a couple of Chinese & North Indian dishes as well as snacks are also served at SFC.

On the Menu:
Idli - Rs.25/-
Vada - Rs.25/-
Idli-vada combo - Rs.30/-
Idli sambhar - Rs.25/-
Vada sambhar - Rs.30/-
Button idli - Rs.25/-
Button vada - Rs.30/-
Upma - Rs.25/-
Puri-kurma - Rs.30/-
Plain Dosa - Rs.30/-
Onion Dosa - Rs.35/-
Masala Dosa - Rs.35/-
Pesarattu - Rs.35/-
M.L.A. Pesarattu - Rs.40/-
Rava Dosa, Onion Rava Dosa, Steam Dosa, Set Dosa, Paneer Dosa - each Rs.40/-
Rava Paneer Dosa -Rs.45/-
70mm Dosa - Rs.65/-
Chapati Dal & kurma - Rs.35/-
Chola Batura - Rs.50/-

Rice dishes:
Flavoured rice - Rs.35/-
Pongal rice - Rs.35/-
Curd rice - Rs.40/-
Bisibele Bhath - Rs.45/-
Veg. Pulao / Dum Biryani - Rs.50/-
Curd rice & flavoured rice combo - Rs.40/-
South Indian meal - this includes 2 puris, 1 bowl of steamed rice, dal, veg. curry, sambar, rasam, curd, papad, pickle and a sweet - Rs. 60/-

Snacks:
Mysore bajji, Alu bonda, Mirchi bajji, Samosa - each Rs.20/- per plate.
Veg. Cutlet - Rs.40/-
Corn Toast - Rs. 40/-
Paneer Pakoda - Rs.25/-

Hot Beverages:
Tea - Rs.10/-
Ginger Tea - Rs. 15/-
Coffee - Rs.15/-
Nescafe - Rs.20/-
Milk - Rs.15/-
Horlicks - Rs.20/-
Bournvita - Rs.20/-

Cold Beverages:
Lassi - Rs.20/-
Buttermilk - Rs.15/-
Cold Coffee - Rs.25/-
300ml Soft drink - Rs.15/-
500ml Soft drink - Rs.25/-
Mineral water - Rs.15/-

South Food Corner Hyderabad Contact Information
Banjara Hills
Hyderabad - 500 034
Ph: 42000799
Contact person: Junaid - Mobile: 9985246522

Other dining options in Hyderabad:
1. Shri Rang restaurant

2. Chutney's

Visiting Salar Jung Museum Hyderabad

2011-07-10T06:21:00.000-07:00

Even if you are making a short trip to Hyderabad, you absolutely must squeeze in at least 2 hours to visit the extraordinary Salar Jung Museum. Of course, to see the entire musuem, 2 hours is just not enough!

Part of the entry ticket to the museum

Before you visit 3 hot tips:

Photographs strictly not allowed anywhere inside the premises. You will have to leave your camera/video-cam at the cloak room near the ticket booking counter.
As soon as you enter, you will see a souvenirs shop where you can buy postcards, keychains, coasters, pen holders, etc. Buy right away if you wish - do not keep it for the end of your museum tour, as you will not be allowed to come back around inside to enter!
Don't throw away the other half of your entry ticket which is given back after the perforated part is taken before you enter - it has a mini-map layout of the locations of the galleries in the Salar Jung museum, so it will help you to quickly locate the specific sections you wish to see.

Sections of the museum on rear part of entry ticket - as stated on it, you can use it as a bookmark!

Salar Jung Museum Review

Since there are more than 30 galleries, spread over 3 blocks - Indian, Western, and Eastern - if you are short of time, here's a list of sections which you absolutely must not miss:

1. Salar Jung Museum Clocks: As soon as you enter the museum on the ground floor there is a viewing gallery where you will see a clock on a pedestal. Another clock which you must rush to see if the hour is going to strike is the Salar Jung museum musical clock in the European Clocks Gallery in Room No. 4, Western Block, 1st floor. When the hour strikes, a tiny man pops out and strikes a gong the same number of times as the hour.

2. Jade Gallery: This is Room No. 28 in the main building on the first floor. Here, do read the info given about jade - It is made of 3 minerals – Jadeite, Nephrite and Chloromenalite. In Europe, there is a version of Jade that is Agate. Agate of alternative black and white bands is Onyx. Nephrite Jade was in use in China for past 3000 years. Jade carving developed in India during Mughal rule.

What to see: Backscratchers (those long stick-like implements to scratch the parts of your back you can’t reach!!!) made of Agate, Jambia (daggers) reputed to have been used by Noorjehan and Jahangir.

3. Arms and Armour Gallery: This is Room No.14 in the main building on the ground floor. Weaponry, fire-arms and even gunpowder containers are displayed here.

What to see: Sword of Salar Jung III encrusted with uncut diamonds from Jaipur and a curved sword (Abbasi) presented by Viceroy & Governor General of India Earl Canning to Nawab Salar Jung I in 1858 A.D.

4. European Paintings Gallery: This is Room No.1, Western Block, 1st floor.

What to see: Last hour of Marie Antoinette by Charles Muller; Gossip by EV Blass – 1845-1932; and Scolding.

5. European Porcelain Gallery: This is Room No.5, Western Block, 1st floor.

What to see: Sevres Porcelain - 1800-1814; Wedgwood Pottery of the 18^th century; Dresden Porcelain of the 18^th Century; Lovely porcelain figurines of Napoleon made in Germany; Souvenir Porcelains commemorating the British and Prussian victory over Napoleon in Waterloo in 1815.

6. Egyptian Gallery: This is Room No. 26, Central Block, 1st floor. Don't miss seeing the throne of Tutankhamen (of course, it is a replica!)

Entrance Ticket Fees of Salar Jung Museum

General public: Rs.10/-
Students with identity cards: 50% concession.
Armed Forces personnel in uniform, organized Kisan parties, children below 12 years: 50% concession.
Foreign visitors: Rs. 150/-
Children's Week (14th to 20th November every year) school children upto 12 years of age accompanied by teachers: free entry.
Museum Week (8th - 14th January every year) general public: concession in the entrance ticket.

Timings of Salar Jung Museum: 10a.m. to 5pm.

Holidays when Salar Jung Museum will be closed

Milad Un Nabi (Birthday of Prophet Mohammad)
Holi
Dr. BR Ambedkar's Birthday
Salar Jung Death Anniversary (May 5th)
Idu’l Fitr (Ramzan)
Dassehra
Idu’l Zuha (Bakrid)
Muharram

Map Location of Salar Jung Museum

View salarjungmuseum in a larger map

Address and Phone Numbers of Salar Jung Museum

Salar Jung Museum

Hyderabad - 500 002

Andhra Pradesh, India.

Ph: 91 040 24576443/ 91 040 24523211, 13 Ext: 301

Fax: 040-24572558

Email of Salar Jung Museum: salarjung@hotmail.com

Dining at Shri Rang restaurant Hyderabad

2011-05-15T23:28:00.000-07:00

The Hyderabad heat can be a real killer as it is extremely dry heat and your throat will feel constantly parched. If you happen to be in Begumpet, then quench your thirst at the Shri Rang restaurant in the Kamat Lingapur Hotel for the most extraordinary khara (salty) lassi that you have ever tasted. It is value for money at Rs.27/- and you will likely want to have a second glass!

Shri Rang restaurant Review

Location: The Kamat Lingapur Hotel is a 3-star hotel located in a quieter lane off a busy main road area of Begumpet in Hyderabad.

Menu: On the Shri Rang restaurant menu are Indian, Chinese, North Indian and Continental cuisine. Only vegetarian cuisine is served here. It also serves traditional Saraswat Konkani food like chanyachi ghashi and batatachisong (exorbitant price of Rs.70/- for each!) and there are specially made dishes for the calorie-conscious diner. Sizzlers, lasagna, macaroni, spaghetti, paneer-based food, variety of veggies, deserts & beverages are on the menu.

Food: It is cheaper to order a thali rather than individual items on the menu. The thali, though, is strictly Ok and nothing served in the thali really made a mark on the taste buds. Nevertheless, it was a reasonable Rs.70/- (Rs.88/- with tax) unlike Chutney’s restaurant which is way overpriced.

Served in the thali: dry lauki (dudhi), white rajma, gongura dal, plain rasam, brinjal sambhar, cabbage chutney, sabudana payasam. Prior to you meal, you can have the Tambolee, a coconut paste-based soup with spices (Rs.70/-).

You can opt for the business lunch with fixed courses for Rs.90/- (tax extra). The morning breakfast is of the buffet type, for Rs. 80/- (tax extra).

Contact Information of Shri Rang Restaurant Begumpet Hyderabad:

Kamat Lingapur Hotel
1-10-44/2, Chikoti Gardens
Begumpet,

Hyderabad - 500 016
Andhra Pradesh

India

Restaurant Ph: +91 40 2776 4242 Extn 252

Ganga Hot Chips Chennai

2011-05-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

Other than buying fabric and sarees, jewellery and handicrafts, one thing you must definitely buy to take back home are the unique wafers from Ganga Hot Chips at Adyar, Chennai.

Ganga Hot Chips

The nondescript store is well-known and its variety of wafers are equally famous. There are tapioca wafers, bananna wafers, tomato-flavoured wafers and, of course, potato wafers of both the plain and spicy types.

Location of Ganga Hot Chips, Chennai: The store is located exactly opposite Parasu Dental Hospital.

Parasu Dental Hospital opp. Ganga Hot Chips

If you are coming from the main road where Ambica Stores is located, just turn left, go straight and take the second left turn. You will see a Nallis shop on your right. Just ahead of it, in the same line on your right, is Ganga Hot Chips. The Parasu Denal Hospital will be on your left.

Beside wafers, you can also buy pickles and mithai (sweetmeats) including ladoos, chivdas and different types of muruku at Ganga Hot Chips.

A row of pickle bottles sets your mouth watering!

The store lives up to its tagline "Your Satisfaction is our Ambition" - satisfaction is definitely gauranteed!

Address and Contact Information of Ganga Hot Chips in Chennai

Old No.12, New No.22, 3rd Cross Street,
K. B. Nagar, Adyar,
Chennai - 600020.
Ph: 044 - 24402549
Mobile: 9841446791

Dining at Chutney's Hyderabad

2011-05-08T06:49:00.001-07:00

The chain of Chutney's restaurants is well known in Hyderabad and has 3 locations - Jubilee Hills; Banjara Hills; and Himayath Nagar. There is also one at Secunderabad.

Chutney's Restaurant Banjara Hills Hyderabad Review

The prices of some of the dishes at Chutney's is Somewhat like Murugan’s in Chennai, but the prices are way steeper. Service is smiling and impeccable. Seating pretty uncomfortable, as it is difficult to stretch legs due to table having a centre pedestal.

Pongal, which is the South version of the Maharashtrian phodni bhaat, but much heavier on the stomach. Comes with its own sambar plus all dishes have the 4 chutney accompaniments; the best was the basic white coconut with a slightly sweet taste.

Tips:

* Tax + Service charge of 5% on price mentioned in menu.

* Only if your bill exceeds Rs.250/-, debit & cedit cards are accepted for payment.

Cuisine: Noth Indian, South Indian, Tandoori, Chinese.

- Menu warns diners not to leave phones, cash, valuables and - this is a first! – specatacles in you car or anywhere in the restaurant.

Available at all times: Idly (Rs.45/-) and a variety of dosas (Rs.65/- to Rs.105/-); A 70mm long dosa can be enjoyed fro Rs.145/-

Dosas available during lunch & dinner only: Mixed veg. dosa, pudina dosa, palak paneer dosa, paneer tikka dosa, baby corn dosa, mushroom dosa (each is Rs. 110/-)

Beverages include: Tea (Rs.40/-), coffee (Rs.40/-), soft drinks (Rs.40/-), lassi (Rs.75/-), butter milk (Rs.55/-), fresh lime soda (Rs.55/-).

Available between 7.30a.m. to 11a.m. and 4pm.to 7p.m.:

* Vada (menu makes it clear that you will have to wait 10mins for this) – Rs.56/-

* Upma – Rs.46/-

* Pesarattu – Rs. 65/-

* Pongal (only available in the mornings) – Rs. 54/-

* Mysore/Mirchi/Arati Bajji (only available in the evenings) – Rs.68/-

* Chole Batura (11a.m. to 8.30p.m.) - Rs.110/-

* Dahi Vada (11a.m. to 8.30p.m.) – Rs. 82/-

Meals include:

* Soups (Rs.88/- each)

* Indian Starters (Rs. 200/-)

* Chinese Starters (Rs.175/Rs.195)

* Indian Main Course: Veggies, curries, kurmas, paneer dishes, and Jain specialitis (Rs.195/-)

* Chinese Main Course: Chow (Rs.175/-), Manchurian dishes (Rs.195/-)

* Rotis (Rs.32 to Rs.47/-); Pulka (Rs.28/-)

* Biryanis: Jeera rice (Rs.100/-); Veg. biryani (Rs.160/-); Curd rice (Rs.80/-)

* Thali: South Indian thali (Rs.150/-); if you order a takeaway it will cost Rs.155/-)

Note: you cannot share the thali; it is one thali per person.

* Desserts: Gulab jamun (Rs.60/-); Ice-creams.

* Shakes: Mango/Pineapple/Vanilla/Strawberry (Rs.100/-)

* Fresh juices: Mosambi/Water melon/ Grape/ Pineapple (Rs.90/-)

Cheaper dining option & well worth a visit just for the lassi: Shri Rang restaurant

Staying at Vailankanni

2011-03-31T02:40:00.000-07:00

When visiting Vailankanni you can stay at the MGM Vailankanni Residency Resort. It is located about 1km from Our Lady of Vailankanni shrine. You can opt to stay in one of the 8 cottages or in a delux room or in a suite.

Room Tarriff at MGM Vailankanni Residency Resort:
* Delux room: Rs.2750/- + Taxes and Service Charge Single / Double occupancy
* Grandeur Suite: Rs.3250/- + Taxes and Service Charge Single / Double occupancy
* Cottage: Rs.3500/- + Taxes and Service Charge Occupancy: 4 people
Note: The rates include breakfast; an extra bed costs Rs. 700/- + tax
Check in Time 14:00 Hrs / Check out Time: 12:00 Noon.

Facilities at MGM Vailankanni Residency Resortinclude a swimming pool, mult-cuisine restaurant, a badminton court, and an indoor games room. Business travellers can avail of conference room facilities. The in-house Lotus restaurant offers Indian, Chinese and Continental food, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian.

The resort can arrange for transportation to the shrine.

MGM Vailankanni Residency Resort Address and Contact Information:
# 64 / F 2, Nagapattinam Main Road
Vailankanni-611111
Ph: 91-4365-263900 / 263979 / 263336
Email: mgmvlknresidency@mgm.co.in

Visiting Vailankanni

2011-03-31T02:08:00.000-07:00

When visiting Chennai, it is a good idea to keep 2 days on your itinerary to visit the holy town of Vailankanni. Vailankanni is famous for its Vailankanni shrine. It is believed that requests asked for through prayers at the shrine of Our Lady of Vailankanni are granted.

Legend has it that Mother Mary arrived at Vailankanni with baby Jesus and hence the shrine was established here. Devotees of all faiths visit the shrine throughout the year and make a return trip once their prayers are fulfilled. The annual 10 day feast, known as "Feast of Our Lady", begins on August 29th.

Location of Vailankanni: The small town of Vailankanni is located about 350 kms. from Chennai. You can hire private taxis to and fro from Chennai itself if you are staying in Chennai. It is also accessible by road from Bengaluru.
How to go to Vailankanni

* The nearest airport to Vailankanni is no the Chennai Airport, but the Tiruchirapalli airport (also known as Trichy airport).

Contact Phone Number of Tiruchirapalli Airport: 91-431-2340551, 91-431-2341810

* The nearest railway station to Vailankanni is at Nagappatinam. It is part of Southern Railways and is located on the Erode-Nagore rail route.

View Larger Map

Tips for Visitors when visiting Vallankanni:

* The Our Lady of Vailankanni shrine is not simply one single church, but a large complex. Hence, you should not assume that you will be able to complete your visit in one hour. There is plenty to see, so you should ideally have 4-5 hours for visiting the shrine.

Map of Vailankanni Shrine location and shrine complex

* You can stay in the town of Vailankanni itself and not find it necessary to make a quick dash to and fro from Chennai or other nearby cities. The local officials have set up simple accomodations in what is called 'The Mega Mahal'. You can also stay at the nearby MGM Resort.

* If you have not taken along any special offerings, but would like to offer something in the form of gold or silver, there is an Offering Center at the premises. Your own unique petition or letter can also be dropped into the large boxes kept for the purpose.

* Visit the museum to see the display of what devotees have been offering at the shrine over the years.

* Make sure you visit the old chapel near the enclosed water tank and not just the newer extensions which were built later - this is said to be the place where Mother Mary first appeared with baby Jesus.

Vailankanni shrine altar

Contact information of Our Lady of Vailankanni shrine

Very Rev. Fr. P. Xavier
Rector,Shrine Basilica

Vailankanni 611 111
Nagapattinam District
Tamilnadu, INDIA
04365 : 263 530 (Father's personal)
04365 : 263 517 (Father's Fax)
04365 : 263 423 (Shrine Number)
Email : info@vailankannishrine.org

Photos of Vailankanni Church

White Pepper restaurant Chennai review

2011-03-06T05:30:00.000-08:00

The White Pepper restaurant Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai identifies itself as 'Dim Sum Delicacy Restaurant'. Yes, they definitely do have dim sums, but their menu is much more expansive, covering a good variety of Asian cuisine. If you are looking for a meal that does not include the same old southern food of sambhar rice, vadas and thalis, head to the White Pepper restaurant for something different.

Before I tell you about this restaurant, though, here are a few tips: The portions are plentiful – and I mean really plentiful! – so it can definitely be shared between 2-3 people. Secondly, make very sure you have enough space to enjoy the lovely desserts at the end of the meal!

Location of White Pepper restaurant Chennai : As mentioned in the address of the restaurant, White Pepper is located near Jayanthi theatre. This theatre, however, comes on your right side on the opposite side of the road when approaching from Adyar so you need to keep your eyes glued to that side – look out for the small sign board of the restaurant perched atop a compound wall after you pass the Aiswariya Bhavan building (this is while approaching from Adyar side). The restaurant is located inside a small by-lane on your right so you could just miss it altogether if you miss the sign board on the main road.

The White Pepper restaurant is located in a bylane off the main L.B.Road

Interior: I was vastly revealed to see that the restaurant is not one of those types which are extremely dim (no pun intended on the word dim sum!) and you can barely see the menu, leave aside what are the ingredients in the food you have ordered. The White Pepper restaurant is bright and cheerful, with neatly spaced out tables and sofa seating arrangements too – groups of 2, 4, 6, 8 and even up to 12 can sit comfortably without elbows & knees knocking. The impeccably placed all-white plates and cutlery are ready for diners, as are toothpicks and salt/pepper/vinegar. When we dined here, the bright red heart-shaped balloons of Valentines Day were still in place, adding to the happy ambience.

White Pepper restaurant interiror

Service: Smiling waiters, quick service (except the first order of dessert took some time coming), hot food.

White Pepper restaurant Chennai Food: The menu of White Pepper Restaurant includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, including lamb, seafood and poultry items. Noodles, oriental grilled food, soups & starters, dim sums, rice, and beverages (fresh fruit juices, mocktails, soft drinks) & desserts completes the menu. As mentioned at the beginning, the portions are good enough to share. So you can order 1 one bowl of soup between 2 people (say one by two when ordering). If you order small bowl, it costs Rs.70/-; the large one costs Rs.110/-.

Soup

Once you have finished slurping up the hot soup (nothing outstanding), move on to the starters. I had the Popiya (spring rolls) and the non-vegetarian members in our group ordered the Calamari (squid). Both were simply wonderful. The Popiya were value for money (Rs. 90/- for 6). They came served on a top of a few straggly strips of cabbage and carrot accompanied by a bowl of a tangy sauce (the sauces are one thing which are served in miniscule portions in really tiny bowls). The minute I bit into a Popiya, I was delighted by the crunchiness. It was not spicy or oily and the sauce was a perfect accompaniment.

Popiya

Calamari

We then ordered Momos, both vegetarian (Rs.110/- for a basket) and chicken (Rs.150/-). These were nothing exceptional and pretty bland in taste.

Cane box in which Momos were served

Next part of our meal was rice. We ordered the Five Coloured Fried Rice (you can order in varying portions depending on how many in your group, with the price varying depending on the portion (Rs.100/- / Rs.110/- / Rs.115/-). The rice did have 5 colours, incorporating baby corn, capsicum, carrot & mushrooms. It was not as tasty as I expected, due to the absence of any fancy spices. Those looking for less bland rice can opt for other varieties on the menu, such as the Thai Spicy Fried Rice or the Corn and Pepper fried rice. Incidentally, plain steamed rice is also available (Rs.70/-).

Five Coloured Friend Rice

To accompany the meal we had a mix of broccoli, mushroom and baby corn veggies (Rs.150/-). This was served in a gravy which was a tad watery, and was Ok.

Finally came the superb dessert: we ordered 3 different desserts – the Choco Mocha mousse, Chocolate mousse, and Mango mousse. Out of these, the Choco Mocha was definitely the best. Note that all these desserts are eggless and gelatin free.

Chocolate mousse

Choco Mocha mousse

Mango mousse

In-between our meal, we were served a complimentary platter of some fried snack resembling fried samosas – like the Popiya, these too were crunchy. At the end of the meal we were also served a plate of bite-sized fruits with toothpicks sticking out. These included watermelons, grapes, bananas, papayas, etc.

Fruity end to the meal!

Overall, the meal was very filling but not the heavy type where you feel the food is literally up to your neck and you just cannot move from your seat! It was a value for money meal, as good as a fancy meal in an up-market expensive hotel’s restaurant. Definitely worth a visit once in a while, especially if you are celebrating something special – we were celebrating my niece winning a talent award for writing at school. Cheers!

White Pepper restaurant Chennai Address and Phone Numbers

New no.76/1, L.B.Road, 3^rd street,

Near Jayanthi theatre,

Thiruvanmiyur

Chennai – 600 041

Ph: 044-43178366 / 43178367

Email: whitepepperchennai@gmail.com

White Pepper restaurant Chennai Timings:
11.30.m. to 3.30p.m. / 6.30p.m. to 11.00p.m.

Extra: The restaurant does free home delivery.

International Kite Festival in India

2011-01-09T01:17:00.000-08:00

The International Kite Festival in India is an annual event hosted by Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It generally begins a few days before the Festival of Makar Sankranti (Click here to know about this festival) and culminates on the Makar Sankranti day, which is 14th January.

Also read: Festival of Uttarayan in Ahmedabad, Gujarat

2011 International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad Gujarat

Venue of 2011 International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad: Sabarmati Riverfront

Dates of 2011 International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad
January 9th:
(1)International Kite Flying Competition. Time: 11a.m.
(2)Theme Pavilions on History of Kites and Adventure Sports. Inauguration. Time: 5p.m.

January 11th: Official inauguration of the Festival. Time: 8.30a.m.

January 12th: Kite flying at White Rann at Dhorda, Kutch

January 13th: Kite flying at Mandvi beach

January 14th: Kite flying in Ahmedabad

For more information contact: Gujarat Tourism Offices in India

Gangtok Sikkim Tourist Train Package

2010-12-17T22:34:00.000-08:00

IRCTC is offering low budget tourist packages to Sikkim, including Gangtok. The Tour Itinerary is: Gangtok-North Sikkim-Peling tour package. The itinerary includes visits to the Valley of Flowers and the Seven Sister Waterfalls, two of the best tourist attractions in Sikkim. Visits to a few monasteries is also included.

Gangtok Sikkim Tour Package Features:
* Non - AC Comfort accommodation on twin sharing basis.
* All transfer according to itinerary in Non AC vehicle (6 in one) or Comfort bus.
* Meals on MAP plan (breakfast & dinner)
* Train fare
* All taxes.
It does not include:
* Portage facility, tips, insurance, liquor, room service, mineral water, camera charge, telephone calls , herbal massage, etc
* Entry Fees, Guide Charges, etc.
* Train food.

Gangtok Sikkim Tour Package Prices
* Comfort (3AC): Rs. 13,750/- [Adult, double occupancy] / Child (5-11yrs.) with extra bed: Rs.10,750/-
* Standard (Sleeper): Rs.12,550/- [Adult, double occupancy] / Child (5-11yrs.) with extra bed: Rs.10,050/-

Important Note: You need to carry Identity proof and 2 photographs.
Click here for more details of Sikkim Tourism Package

Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train India

2010-12-15T22:40:00.001-08:00

Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC) is offering tourists special travel packages on the National Tourism Award winner Buddhist Circuit Special Train.

The journey covers: Bodhgaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, Sarnath, Varanasi, Kushinagar, Lumbini (Nepal), Sravasti & Agra.It is a 7 nights / 8 days trip, all inclusive trip in 2-AC.

Buddhist Circuit Special Train Package India includes:
* Journey by Exclusive Air-conditioned Train as per the Itinerary.
* Road transport by AC coaches as per the itinerary.
* Sightseeing as per the itinerary.
* Accommodation as per the itinerary.
* Meals as per the itinerary.
* English / Hindi speaking Tour Escort.
* Entrance fees of monuments/sightseeing trips as per the itinerary.
* Travel Insurance.

Buddhist Circuit Special Train Tour Dates (Commencement from Delhi)

SEP 2010 25th
OCT 2010 16th & 30th
NOV 2010 13th & 27th
DEC 2010 11th & 25th
JAN 2011 8th & 22nd
FEB 2011 12th & 26th
MAR 2011 12th & 26th

Buddhist Circuit Special Train Tour Itinerary
* Day I – Departure Delhi (Delhi Safdarjung Station in the afternoon) for Gaya.
* Day II - Arrive Gaya in the morning. Visit Bodhgaya. Over night stay at the hotel.
* Day III - Visit Rajgir & Nalanda. Departure for Varanasi in the evening.
* Day IV - Arrive Varanasi in the morning. Visit Sarnath. Visit the Ganges for the evening Aarti. Departure for Gorakhpur in the evening.
* Day V/VI - Arrive Gorakhpur in the morning. Visit Kushinagar/Lumbini. Overnight stay at hotel. Breakfast at hotel, Sightseeing.
* Lunch at hotel. Return to Gorakhpur. Departure for Gonda.
* Day VII - Arrive Gonda in the morning. Visit Sravasti. Departure Gonda for Agra in the evening.
* Day VIII - Arrive Agra in the morning. Visit Taj Mahal. Departure for Delhi in the afternoon.
* Arrive Delhi (Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station) in the evening.

Buddhist Circuit Special Train India Package Price: US$ 1176 / INR 55272[first A/C coupe] for Full Tour - for this only two passengers sharing a cabin during the train journey. Note: Package does not include visa fees and fees for camera/video at monuments/historic places. You will also have to make your own arrangements for Road Transfers to and from Delhi-Safdarjung Railway Station.
Price of package will vary depending on Train berths selected - there are 2-tier and 3-tier options too.

Contact Information for Buddhist Circuit Special Train Package India:
Tourism Facilitation Center,
Ground Floor Jawahar Vayapar Bhawan,
behind Central Industries Emporium,
Janpath,
New Delhi - 110001
Contact : 9717644798, 9717635909
Tel: +91-1123701100/45
Fax: +91-11-23701177
Web: www.railtourismindia.com/buddha
Email: buddhisttrain@irctc.com

Cell Phone Shops in India

2010-12-06T02:04:00.000-08:00

Looking for a cell phone shop in India for a specific brand? Don't know where to buy a mobile phone of a particular brand in India?

Here's a list of all the cell phone stores in India for every possible brand available in India. Simply click on the name of the mobile phone brands in India, and you will be linked to the cell phone store locator in India of that brand. [Note: this is not a comprehensive list. I will add more names in the coming days]

Click here if you want to locate a Mobile Phone Telecom Service Provider in India

Click here for Google Apps for your Cell Phone

Cell Phone Shops in India of Mobile Phone Brands in India

Apple iPhone

Accord

Blackberry

Dell

Karbonn

Lava

Motorola

MicroMax

Munoth

Nokia

Puma

Samsung

Sony Ericcsson

Videocon

Zen

Names of Cell Phone Service Providers and Customer Service Centers in India

2010-12-05T23:13:00.000-08:00

Mobile number portability (MNP) in India will soon be available across India. So you may want to check out the various Telecom Service Providers in India.

I have made a list in alphabetical order - just click on the name of the telecom service provider in India and you will be taken to the homepage of that company. Do let me know if any got left out of the list!

Complete List of Telecom Service Providers in India

Aircel India

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. India

Bharti Cellular Ltd. / Airtel India

BPL Mobile India [ now known as Loop Mobile India]

Etisalat India

Idea Cellular India

Loop India

Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) India

Reliance Telecom Ltd. India

Sistema Shyam TeleServices Limited (SSTL) India

Spice Telecom Ltd. India

Tata Teleservices India

Tata Docomo India

Tata Indicom India

Uninor India

Videocon India

Virgin Mobiles India

Vodafone Essar India

Click here to know How to Apply for Mobile Number Portability in India

Click here to know Why Mobile Number Portability is a headache!

Fairy Queen Tourist Train Online Booking Packages Prices

2010-12-01T00:34:00.000-08:00

If you love traveling in old-fashioned heritage trains, the Fairy Queen tourist train in India is for you! It chugs along merrily on a steam-powered engine, which is considered to be the oldest working engine in the world. You can enjoy a comfortable journey in the 60-seater air-conditioned Fairy Queen train and have lunch aboard and venture on a jeep safari in a National Park after an overnight stay in a resort. Note, though, that the months of operation of the Fairy Queen tourist train are from October to March only.

A little historical information about the Fairy Queen tourist train: Born in 1855 in the workshop of East Indian Railway, the Fairy Queen stopped commuting between stations in 1908. In 1971 it was showcased at the famous Railway Museum in New Delhi. Then, in 1996, the Fairy Queen train was given a new lease of life at the Perambur workshop of Southern Railway and got back on the tracks with a journey from Delhi to Alwar in 1997. A year later it steamrolled its way into the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's oldest working locomotive and later was honoured with the National Tourism Award for its unique tourist journeys.

Route of Fairy Queen Tourist Train
Delhi - Alwar - Sariska - Alwar – Delhi

- The train will stop for 10 minutes each at Garhi Harasuru, Pataudi Road, Rewari, Ajarka and Khairthal railway stations. After all, the hard-working locomotive does need a break!

Fairy Queen Tourist Train Itinerary

Day1

0830 hrs: Reporting at the Delhi Cantonment railway station

0900 hrs: Departure of Fairy Queen

1300 hrs: Lunch on board the train

1500 hrs: Arrival at Always railway station

1520 hrs: Arrival at Sariska by air-conditioned coach

1630 hrs: Arrival at Hotel Tiger Den

1930 hrs: Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel

Day 2

0630 hrs: Jeep safari in Sariska Tiger Reserve

0930 hrs: Return to Hotel for breakfast

1200 hrs.: Departure from Sariska by air-conditioned coach

1245 hrs: Arrival by coach at Always railway station

1300 hrs: Departure of Fairy Queen from Alwar

Months of Operation : October to March ( 2nd and 4th Saturday)

2010-2011 Dates Of Operation of Fairy Queen
December 2010 Dates of Fairy Queen Tourist Trip: 11^th and 25^th

January 2011 Dates of Fairy Queen Tourist Trip: 8^th and 22^nd

February 2011 Dates of Fairy Queen Tourist Trip: 12^th and 26^th

March 2011 Dates of Fairy Queen Tourist Trip: 12^th

Fairy Queen Tourist Train Packages and Tickets Prices

1. Full Package of Fairy Queen: This includes 2 way train journey + sight-seeing / stay at Sariska.

Adult Ticket: Rs.10,200/-

Child Ticket: Rs.5,100/-

2. One-way Trip Package of Fairy Queen: This includes 1 way journey between Delhi & Alwar + sight-seeing / stay at Sariska.

Adult Ticket: Rs. 7,100/-

Child Ticket: Rs. 3,550/-

3. One-Way Train Journey of Fairy Queen: This includes only traveling on the Fairy Queen one-way, between Delhi & Alwar.

Adult Ticket: Rs. 3,200/-

Child Ticket: Rs. 1,600/-

Important Notes:

* Half fare for children above 5 years but below 12 years of age

* Children below 5 years can travel Free

* Local transportation in Delhi (To & From the Station) is not included

* Entrance fees during sightseeing not included

* Full package cost has to be paid at the time of booking.

Click here to know more details about the Fairy Queen Tourist Train India

Click here for Online Booking of Tickets for Fairy Queen Train India

Road Routes to Gangtok Map

2010-11-29T22:41:00.000-08:00

This map shows various road routes of Eastern India.

Road Route from Kolkata to Gangtok
Road Route from Kolkata to Darjeeling
Road Route from Gangtok to Darjeeling
Road Route from Varanasi to Gangtok
Road Route from Patna to Gangtok
Road Route from Bhubaneshwar to Gangtok
Road Route from Shillong to Gangtok
Road Route from Ranchi to Kolkata
Road Route from Bhubaneshwar to Kolkata
Road Route from Ranchi to Kolkata

Shopping in Gangtok

2010-11-29T00:40:00.000-08:00

Your entire shopping expedition in Gangtok, Sikkim will likely be centered on one road: M.G.Road, named after the Father of the Nation, Gandhiji. This is because M.G.Road, Gangtok is the shopping hub for both locals and tourists. There are dozens and dozens of shops lining the street on both sides, selling goods from jackets to boots, wooden masks to dolls, tea to wines. Note though, that most of the goods are expensive and it is practically impossible to get the rates down even after hard bargaining. Most of the shopkeepers will just not bring down the rates.

However, during the off-season, you could definitely get huge discounts! One of the shops recommended is the Indo-Tibetan shop. If you have time, it is a good idea to compare the rates in the shops on M.G.Road with those in the State Handloom & Handicraft Emporium, Gangtok (located at Zero Point and accessible by taxi from M.G.Road).

What to buy in Gangtok: you absolutely must buy: the cute doll key-chains (see photo below)

The keychains are actually much smaller - I have taken a closeup to show details - don't you feel lik hugging them?!

The winter jackets are of very good quality but extremely expensive, so unless you are staying in a really cold region, don't reach for your wallet! You can, though, get woolens at lesser rates during the summer months in Sikkim. Also, unless you really have a craze for curios, it is not worth buying expensive curios which will simply gather dust in your home whether it is a pretty wall hanging or a figurine. You could, though, buy local tea and fruit squashes if you are so inclined.

Shop window stuffed with crockery, vases, figurines, and general curios

Don't forget to have a closer look at the artistic styles of the buildings and shops themselves, as well as the incredible views from the main shopping areas of Gangtok (see photos below). It is a photographer's delight to be there!

Tip: Due to the low excise duties, you can get wines at a lesser rate than if you were to buy in one of the major cities in India. However, do find out about Sikkim liquor permits, which are essential for taking out locally-made brews and wines outside Sikkim. Address for Liquor Permits in Gangtok: Excise office, M.G.Road, Gangtok.

Top 7 Reasons Why Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in India maybe a Headache!

2010-11-24T07:25:00.000-08:00

As every citizen in India know, trying to get anything done, whether applying for a birth certificate, a ration card, a bank account, etc is an excruciatingly s-l-o-w process, not to mention standing in long queues for hours/days/weeks/months and/or giving a bribe!

Now we have Mobile number portability (MNP) in India, which is going to be yet another long-haul procedure.

Here’s why Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in India is not as exciting as it sounds….

1. The procedure for applying for Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in India will itself take a number of days.

Click here to know How to Register for Mobile number portability (MNP) in India

2. The mobile portability of your cell phone number in India will be limited to a specific license service area / telecom circle within a specific zone. Mobile Number Portability between other circles (called Inter circle portability) is as yet not allowed. This means that if you switch from Airtel to Idea in Mumbai and then get a job transfer to Chennai, you cannot then use the mobile portability process for switching to a telecom service provider in Chennai. That is, you will not have the benefit of keeping the same mobile number when switching to another service provider in Chennai.

3. After sending a mobile phone porting request, you may change your mind and not wish to switch over to a new service provider. You can then cancel your request within 24 hours only by informing the new service provider (in the example above it is Idea). However, the charges you paid for cell phone porting will not be refunded to you.

4. In the event that you have not paid your outstanding dues, despite an undertaking to do so before you switch to a new provider, your mobile number is liable to be disconnected by the new service provider.

5. You can make a porting request only after 90 days (3 months) of the date of activation of your mobile connection.

6. If you again wish to change your telecom provider (let’s say from Idea back to Airtel or to another service provider), then you can do so only after 90 days from the date of the previous porting process.

7. The completion of the entire mobile number portability porting process in licensed service areas of the States of Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and North East States is likely to take longer (maximum permissible is 12 days) as compared to other States (maximum 4 days).

Unless you genuinely feel that you will get better and/or cheap cell phone services from the new telecom service provider, you should not needlessly switch over. Sometimes, old is gold!

Tips for Travelling in Public Cabs Mumbai

2010-11-14T00:59:00.000-08:00

When travelling in Mumbai in a public taxi [the yellow and black ones], keep in mind that you need to pay strictly by the meter tariff card. This is especially the case when you arrive at the Mumbai domestic or International airport or a railway station. The taxi driver may insist on quoting an outright sum when you take a taxi from the airport/station to your destination.In that case,ignore the taxi and take another one. You should pay ONLY as per the meter.

Secondly, as soon as you enter a Mumbai public taxi, make a discreet note of the taxi number. This is generally painted next to the glove comparment and sometimes on the back of the front seat(on the left side). So if (i) the taxi driver cheats you and charges you wrongly or (ii) you absentmindedly leave anything in the taxi when your reach your destination, you can in case no. (i) complain to the nearest traffic policeman and in the case of no. (ii) contact the main taxi lost property office [Ph.: 23090083 / 23861532 ].

Thirdly, keep an eye on the meter of the Mumbai public taxi. Some of the taxi drivers tamper with it, so it tends to 'jump'.The number at the beginning of your journey should read '1.00'. If it suddenly jumps to '2.00', then '3.00' and so on,you are looking at a tampered meter.There should be numbers in between that first 1.00 and the next [2.00],between 2.00 and the next 3.00, and so on like this: 1.01, 1.02, etc.

Fourthly, if you have just one or two bags, you can keep them on the floor behind the front seat and/or on the floor in the front.That way, you can avoid paying the luggage charges of Mumbai public taxis which you need to pay if you put it in the trunk or up on the carrier.Of course, if you have a lot of luggage, you will need to put it in the trunk! Note: the tariff card also shows the amount you have to pay for luggage.

Finally, on reaching your destination, first get out of the taxi with all your luggage and then insist on looking at the tariff card. If you feel that you have been cheated [example, you've noted that the meter jumped], refuse to pay what the driver says. Talk loudly and say that you will make a complaint to the police. Of course, make sure that you have an eye and hand on all your luggage as with the beginning of your argument it is guaranteed a large crowd will gather! If the meter was not jumping, you pay exactly what it says on the tariff card and not a rupee more. Naturally,the longer the distance the more you will pay.

Sugesstion: You could keep a map of mumbai with road markings with you, so that the taxi drivers don't literally take you for a ride by taking a circuitous route and thus increasing your fare charge unnecessarily.
That said,not ALL taxi drivers are dishonest! Some of them are really very helpful.

Meru Cabs

In addition to the public taxis, there are a number of private air-conditioned taxis, such as Meru Cabs Mumbai - Customer Service Center Ph: 4422 4422. [at night there is a higher charge]

Of course, if you can afford it, you can also rent a chauffeur-driven car !

Forshe private car

For the ladies, there is Forshe - it is managed and operated by women alone and the drivers are all ladies.
Contact Information of Forshe Mumbai: Ph: 24324161 / Mobile: 9892819245.

[Note: I am not endorsing any of the above-mentioned rental vehicle services - just providing some useful info.!]

Visiting Kapaleeswarar Temple and Shopping in Chennai

2010-10-28T08:28:00.000-07:00

I had heard a lot about the Kapaleeswarar temple, so made it a point to go there on my first visit to Chennai. It is well-known for its architectural beauty, especially its extremely tall pyramid structure (gopuram) that stretches towards the sky. It is located in Mylapore and is easily accessible by autos and cabs. As per a legendary lore, Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva here in the form of a peacock. The temple is also home to beautiful bronze figures of Lord Shiva’s devotees, numbering 63 saints in all.

So I was very excited to visit the temple. At the left side of the entrance, I handed over my footwear to the charge of a caretaker and got a token in return for collecting them later. I was truly awed by the tall gopuram and wondered at the superb mastery of the temple artisans who created the many idols and figures that grace the gopuram. I happily started clicking away and stepped over the threshold, camera at eye level to snap some pictures of the interior. A temple priest saw me, shouted something in Tamil and gestured with his hands, by which I understood that it was forbidden to take photos inside the temple precincts. Duly chastened, I put away my camera. Walking around the temple created an inner peace that is typical of a place of worship.

Best Places for Shopping in Chennai

After spending some time in prayer at this wonderful temple, after collecting my footwear I headed to the Radha Silk showroom. Located just a few footsteps from the temple, ‘Rasi’ as it is popularly known, has (naturally as it is south India!) extremely fine silk sarees. However, there is far more than sarees to attract the avid shopper at this emporium. I veered towards the children’s wear section, looking for something to gift my niece. I came across some adorable cotton skirts in various shades of blue and pink. I was happy to see the good quality fabrics and fine stitching work. Unfortunately, though, I did not get the size I wanted and I was sorely disappointed! Then I proceeded to the men’s wear section and, believe me, I came across some of the finest men’s kurtas I have ever seen to date. There was a vast range of colors and sizes and each one was impeccably designed. For the ladies, too, there are some lovely salwar-kameez sets for wearing at celebratory functions. Whether you are looking for casual or formal wear, Rasi is a definite shopping stop!

A major shopping destination in Chennai is the Saravanna Stores. It is not just a store, but a multi-storeyed building. Even in the early mornings, there will be a huge crowd of shoppers. By huge I mean really huge – it seems as though half the population of the city has converged here, not to mention visitors like me. Each floor is devoted to a particular type of goods – jewellery, clothes, bags, household provisions, sports items, stationery, etc. Many people rush here to buy their monthly provisions and gift items to take advantage of the low prices. There are plenty of tempting things to buy, but make sure you have some money left over to enjoy the equally low-priced food in the canteen. Try the dal-vadas and samosas and take some of the cake to try out later.

For bookworms, two places that are a must-visit are Crossword and Landmark. Both are beautifully designed spaces. The Crossword Shop has comfortably deep large chairs that you can sink into and read a book undisturbed – what bliss! Landmark’s larger outlet at Spencer’s Plaza is simply awesome. It is so vast that you will need an entire day just to browse through the whole space!

Then there are well-known garments / sarees / jewellery that are Chennai’s landmarks, once again occupying entire buildings, such as Pothy’s, Nalli’s, etc.
So there are no dearth of shops and malls to spend many happy hours in the shade away from the heat!

Kebab Court Chennai

2010-10-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

Kebab Court Restaurant Chennai

Just as it is difficult to locate a restaurant in North India that serves authentic dosas and sambhar, it is tough finding a dining establishment in the southern parts that serves authentic north-style kebabs and parathas. So it was a lovely surprise to feast on some really succulent kebabs and well-cooked parathas at Kebab Court, ECR, Chennai. The restaurant is open for dinner after 7 p.m. and it is a sensible idea to reserve a table in advance as diners start coming in large groups after 8.30p.m.

The waiter courteously draws out your chair if you are a lady and within seconds a small glass of cold lime and mint sherbet appears; the complimentary drink makes a refreshing start to your meal. Hindi film songs are played in the background without being annoyingly loud. It is easy to select from the menu, as it is not very vast, but nevertheless has something to tempt every palate. You can order simple Rotis or plain Naans or go for Vegetable Parathas. Before that, feast on the kebabs – six on one plate – that simply make you drool and tempt you to order more. The parathas too are made just right – not hard, and not burnt! For the main dish, you can select from the various rice varieties and finish your meal with a dessert. Though a meal for two could cost upwards of Rs. 1000/- (with both of you sharing each dish), it is value for money.

Note: Kebab Court also has branches at Velacherry and at Anna Nagar.

For information and reviews of restaurants visit India Review Channel

Light Art Store Chennai

2010-10-28T08:16:00.001-07:00

Lights enhance the décor of a house, the atmosphere of an office, the interior of an automobile and the ambience of a hotel or restaurant. At one time the options were limited to long white tube lights or round yellow bulbs. Today lighting systems are veritable art pieces in themselves, brightening up indoor places and outdoor sites in enlightening ways. Some lights are harsh, some soft and soothing, yet others keep you mesmerized.

Shopping for lights is fun! To enter a store that is devoted exclusively to lights and nothing else is even more enjoyable. One such showroom that I came across on my visit to Chennai is Light Art at Alwarpet. The ordinary-looking red and white exterior houses some of the most extraordinary lighting systems that I have ever seen. For those with small requirements to those looking for ways to light up spacious homes – every kind of customer can have their bright wishes at this one store. Tiny Swarovski-embedded ceiling bulbs, chandeliers with white Egyptian crystals, wall lamps of every hue, unique lotus-shaped lights suspended from the ceiling …all these and more will have you gasping in awe.