Up, Up and Away: India’s Best Hillside Retreats for Your October Pooja Holidays!

Up, Up and Away: India’s Best Hillside Retreats for Your October Pooja Holidays!

By Author

Published on October 9, 2023

Ah, the joy of October! It’s that beautiful time when the city lights seem a tad dimmer, and the call of the mountains, well, it becomes almost irresistible. It's like nature herself is sending out an engraved invitation, each leaf and twig beckoning us to step into a world where WiFi signals are replaced by the melodies of rustling leaves and flowing streams.

Jim Corbett National Park

In the heart of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is more than a retreat; it's a playground for the soul. October blesses it with a climate where the sun plays hide and seek, and the nights whisper the tales of the wild. The tigers, oh those majestic beings, roam free and wild, painting a picture so lively that even the most exquisite cameras may not do justice. And if you’ve an ear for the avian symphony, 650 species of birds are ready to perform live!

Mussoorie

A touch of snow, a dash of sun, and a whole lot of green - that's Mussoorie wrapped in nature’s embrace. There’s a waterfall named Kempty, not empty of course, filled with the melody of gushing waters. The trek trails are not just paths; they’re passages to heaven, especially the one leading to Lal Tibba, painted with views that make you question reality.

Lansdowne

Quietude finds its voice in Lansdowne. Here, the mountains and oak forests aren’t just sightseeing spots; they’re silent storytellers of tales untold. The weather in October? Think of a well-brewed coffee, warm, soothing, and absolutely invigorating.

Nainital

The ‘City of Lakes’ becomes a portrait of serenity in October. It’s a shopping spree set amidst the echoing beauty of peaks and waters. Here, every temple and viewpoint is a bookmark in the traveler’s diary, a moment frozen in the awe of nature’s spectacle.

Ranikhet

The ‘Queen of Meadows’ wears her greenest gowns in October. It’s a place where orchards aren’t just trees but the bearers of nature’s bounty and where colonial buildings stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, echoing the days of yore.

Kasauli

Nestled amidst pine and oak, Kasauli is where serenity finds its melody. Visit the Sunset Point where the golden hues dance to the tunes of silence or step into the historic embrace of the Gurkha Fort; every moment is a postcard from nature.

Gulmarg

Snow finds its haven in Gulmarg. In the lap of Himalayas, the ‘Meadow of Flowers’ blossoms under the pristine white shroud, making every view a canvas painted in heaven’s hues.

Chopta

In Chopta, every peak has a tale, every temple an ancient song. It’s a gateway to the ethereal, where Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Chaukhamba peaks stand as sentinels of the divine.

Shimla

The crown jewel of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is not just a destination; it’s an experience. It’s where the colonial echoes meet the modern hustle, where every street is a stroll down the heritage lane.

Auli

Chill takes a whole new meaning in Auli. October here isn’t just a month; it’s a spectacle of frosty delights, where peaks like Nanda Devi make a silent yet grand conversation with the skies.

Pahalgam

In the heart of Kashmir, Pahalgam is an ode to serenity. It’s where valleys echo the silent songs of the majestic mountains, where every dawn and dusk is a poem recited by the skies.

As we prepare to fold this enchanting catalogue of destinations, let’s embark on a silent pact. A pact to tread lightly, laugh heartily, and embrace these pristine abodes of nature with the respect and awe they command.

So, grab that backpack, pull out those untouched trekking boots, and let's commit the most wonderful crime - stealing moments of sheer bliss from the hands of time. And remember, the mountains are calling. It’s rude not to answer, isn’t it?


Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla Hosts Stunning Wedding Showcase

Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla Hosts Stunning Wedding Showcase

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on August 30, 2024

Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla recently hosted a remarkable Wedding Showcase, demonstrating the hotel’s capability to deliver exceptional wedding experiences. The event emphasized the hotel’s attention to detail, elegant decor, and world-class facilities, catering to the diverse needs of couples and showcasing a variety of stunning venues and personalized services.

The event featured several key highlights:

Grand Entrance: Guests were welcomed in a beautifully decorated lobby, designed to evoke the vibrant and colorful atmosphere of a wedding. The experience continued with a Red Wedding Hues Tunnel at the banquet porch, setting a magical tone for the evening.

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Emerald Ballroom: This grand ballroom, with a capacity of up to 400 guests, was transformed into an elegant cocktail venue. The room was illuminated by a stunning chandelier, and a soulful Sufi live band provided the perfect ambiance. Guests enjoyed a selection of global cuisines in the pre-function area, carefully curated by the hotel’s experienced chefs.

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Jade Lawn: The outdoor Jade Lawn, capable of hosting up to 500 guests, was adorned with beautiful floral decorations, making it an ideal setting for a wedding ceremony. The serene environment provided a picturesque backdrop for the bride and groom.

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Opal Banquet: The intimate Opal Banquet, accommodating 180 guests, was designed as a lively Haldi zone, featuring a vibrant yellow and blue theme that reflected the joyous spirit of the occasion.

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Poolside: The poolside area, with a capacity of 60 guests, was decorated for a fun-filled Mehendi night. The colorful decor created a lively and festive atmosphere, perfect for an intimate celebration.

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ChaoBella: The evening concluded with a Bohemian-themed sit-down dinner at ChaoBella. The al fresco setup offered a stylish and intimate dining experience, where guests enjoyed the chic, outdoor wedding reception ambiance.

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The culinary offerings were a highlight of the event, featuring a diverse menu ranging from Indian to Oriental cuisines, all meticulously prepared by the hotel’s talented chefs. Each dish reflected the hotel’s commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience.

“At Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla, we believe in creating wedding experiences that are as unique and special as the couples themselves,” said Mr Shuvendu Banerjee, the General Manager of Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla. “This showcase was a glimpse into the endless possibilities we can offer, from personalized decor to gourmet cuisine, ensuring that every wedding is truly unforgettable.”

For couples planning their dream wedding, the team at Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla is ready to tailor every detail to match their vision, ensuring a celebration that reflects their love story.


Young Talent Takes the Spotlight at Pacific Mall NSP Pitampura's Inaugural Kids Fashion Show

Young Talent Takes the Spotlight at Pacific Mall NSP Pitampura's Inaugural Kids Fashion Show

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on August 14, 2024

Pacific Mall NSP Pitampura recently hosted its first-ever Kids Fashion Show, drawing attention to the creativity and talent of young fashion enthusiasts. The event, known as the Pacific Kids Fashion Show Season 1, featured children aged five and above, who took to the runway to showcase their unique styles.

The fashion show was divided into five distinct categories, each designed to allow the young participants to express their individuality. The categories ranged from traditional attire to modern fashion, giving the children a platform to explore and enjoy different styles.

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The event attracted a large crowd of families and fashion lovers, who came to support the young models. The atmosphere was lively, filled with cheers and applause as the children confidently walked down the runway. Parents and friends were seen celebrating the achievements of the participants, adding to the overall excitement of the event.

Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director of Pacific Group, shared his thoughts on the success of the event: "The Pacific Kids Fashion Show was a fantastic platform for our young talents to shine. We are proud to have provided an opportunity for children to showcase their creativity and confidence on such a grand stage. This event was a huge success, and we promise to organise more such events for the little ones. This event was our commitment to nurturing talent and providing memorable experiences for families at Pacific Mall NSP Pitampura."

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The fashion show not only highlighted the fashion sense of the young participants but also emphasized the importance of socialization and community support for emerging talent. The event concluded with awards for outstanding performances, ensuring that every child left with a sense of pride and accomplishment.


BBC Player Launches 'Great Indian Railway Journeys' Showcasing India's Cultural and Scenic Wonders

BBC Player Launches 'Great Indian Railway Journeys' Showcasing India's Cultural and Scenic Wonders

By Nithyakala NeelakandanNithyakala Neelakandan

Published on August 9, 2024

BBC Player, a streaming service from BBC Studios available on Prime Video Channels, is launching a new series titled Great Indian Railway Journeys on August 12. The four-part series, hosted by British broadcaster and railway enthusiast Michael Portillo, will explore India’s vast railway network, offering viewers a unique perspective on the country’s rich cultural diversity and scenic landscapes.

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The series promises an immersive experience, showcasing the bustling streets of Delhi, the serene backwaters of Kerala, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, and the golden sands of Rajasthan. Through these journeys, Great Indian Railway Journeys captures the diverse customs and lifestyles that define contemporary India.

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A notable aspect of the series is Portillo’s exploration of India’s royal heritage. He visits grand palaces and delves into the opulent lifestyles once enjoyed by the maharajas, offering insights into the grandeur of India’s imperial past. Additionally, the series highlights the technological advancements of Indian Railways, showcasing how the network has evolved from vintage locomotives to modern high-speed trains, reflecting the nation’s progress towards modernity.

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Stanley Fernandes, Vice President of Distribution, South Asia at BBC Studios, expressed excitement about the series’ debut, stating, “We are thrilled to bring audiences another gem that will take viewers along on this unforgettable journey through India’s soul-stirring landscapes and vibrant cultures in a unique travel format. Through Great Indian Railway Journeys, we aim to showcase the essence of new India fulfilled by its diversity, history, and enduring spirit.”

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The series will be available to Prime members who can subscribe to BBC Player for INR 599 annually, which also includes access to BBC Kids. Great Indian Railway Journeys is expected to attract viewers worldwide with its blend of travel, culture, and historical exploration.

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