Jaisalmer: The Golden City in the Desert

Posted on November 21, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

Jaisalmer is a beautiful city near the Thar Desert and is 100 kilometres away from the Pakistan border. After our arrival at the train station, a car from the hotel picked us up and brought us to our accommodation. On the way, we saw Fort Jaisalmer for the first time and I felt like Aladdin in Disneyland.

The fort is amazing and gives you glimpses as a pretence of former times when kings ruled the country. The haveli built there, which is a traditional historic townhouse of Old India, is breathtaking. There are many wonderful things to do in Jaisalmer; that we were able to cover on our trip with the help of India Someday.

The Gadsisar Lake is definitely worth a visit, a beautiful oasis in the Thar Desert

Things we did in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort

If looking for things to do in Jaisalmer then I would suggest visiting the fort. In 1156, the fort was built by the Rajputana ruler called Jaisal. I would highly recommend visiting the Fort Palace.

There is an audio-guide included in the ticket that allows one to learn so much about the history of the city. The various rooms inside the palace are beautiful. You have amazing views when you walk into the gates, that reminded me of being in a fairytale.

Jain Temple

We saw two nice Jain temples inside the fort while we walked around (although it should be noted that the entry for this monument was quite expensive.) The relics made of sandstone were intricately detailed and interesting to see.

Camel Safari

One of the best things to do in Jaisalmer is the camel safari. This was one of the most exciting, romantic and a spectacular part of our trip to Jaisalmer. We started the trip at 15:00 hrs along with a Spanish couple and a man from Canada. To get to the tour, we drove for half an hour and made a pit stop at a nearby village; making it not very far to travel.

At 17:00 hrs, we began our camel safari in the Thar Desert from the Khuri Sand Dunes Resort. It was a little scary when the camel stood up as it was difficult to find my balance, but I soon was able to get a grip over it. To sit on a camel is not too comfortable and it is also very high. But once we headed off, the view was amazing.

An Unexpected Event

However, after 10 minutes a small herd of sheep crossed our way and two of the small sheep “attacked” two of the camels. One of the sheep was under my camel which made the animal really nervous and aggressive, because of which it became really difficult to stay put in the saddle. In the end, I had to jump off the camel before it escalated and could become a dangerous situation for me and the other rider.

I had to calm down and get my nerves together before I could jump back on. Marlene was also a little in shock. After a while, everyone was better and we continued our journey through the desert. We arrived at our camp in the sand dunes after an hour of riding.

It was an amazing view, as we enjoyed the sunset together in a secluded area, managing to take some great pictures in the meantime. After a delicious dinner, the cameleers sang us some folk-songs. We had a lot of fun together.

Our “beds” were also very comfortable, and we were given blankets to sleep with. It was amazing to sleep outside under the clear skies with the moon shining and the twinkling stars.

In the morning we enjoyed the beautiful sunrise and a delicious breakfast. After this, we rode the camels back through the sand dunes to the main street where a car picked us up.

Camel safari in Jaisalmer, India

Our Accommodation

In Jaisalmer, we stayed in a comfortable hotel called The Mystic Jaisalmer. This is a beautiful hotel with an amazing roof-top terrace view of the Golden Fort. Our room was clean, the beds were comfortable, and the room itself had nice furniture. The staff, especially the boss, were really friendly and gave us lots of good information about the camel safari in great detail.

Mystic Jaisalmer Rooftop (Picture Credit: Tripadvisor)

Restaurants

1. Mystic Jaisalmer

On the roof-top terrace, I enjoyed delicious Rajasthani food with naan and vegetables grown in the desert. The staff is very friendly and the service is quick. It had a nice ambience with an impressive view of the fort.

2. Sunset

This restaurant is located inside the fort. Here you can enjoy very good Indian food on a roof-top terrace, and everything is about the view of Jaisalmer Fort.

3. Jaisal Italy

This restaurant offers very good Italian pasta on par with international standards. I also ordered an orange juice. This one was unfit for consumption but there was no problem sending it back and ordering another drink. Marlene’s ice tea was of very good quality.

4. The Bhang Shop

Well, this one was very interesting! We were able to order crushed seeds and leaves of the cannabis plant (only legalised in certain regions of the country) mixed with milk, served as a traditional drink in India. The effects left us craving lots of food and parts of the day we cannot remember.

Explore More: The Pinnacle of Rajasthan’s Travel Destinations

The royal cenotaphs of the rulers of Jaisalmer (Picture Credit: Conde Nast Traveller India)

Kankarwa Haveli Udaipur

Posted on November 13, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

Kankarwa Haveli is a heritage hotel on the banks of Lake Pichola in the Lal Ghat area. Mr. Janardan Singh and his son Divyarishi have restored their ancestral home into a hotel. They have maintained the traditional charm of the original Haveli but refurbished it with modern amenities to appeal to the international audience. This, we felt is a very good mix.

We stayed in the Deluxe Lakefront Suite which had an amazing view of the Lake Pichola and the opulent Taj Lake Palace. The room was large, well lit and ventilated and had a very romantic air about it. That is the magic of a lake facing room. It’s worth spending the couple extra bucks (although we received a free upgrade!). It had a separate sitting area overlooking the lake which was a plus. The bathroom was white and spotlessly clean with modern European fittings.

Lakeview Restaurant

What we love about Kankarwa Haveli

The rooms are done up really well and no two rooms are the same in terms of size and décor. Simple, classy interiors with clean and comfortable bedding. The partial lake facing rooms also have a decent view of the lake with a cushioned sitting area near the window.
Divyarishi is more than willing to have a quick chat and help you with directions and things to do. They can arrange a car or if you wish bicycles for you to get around Udaipur.

What we like about Kankarwa Haveli

The proximity to the City Palace and shopping spots.
Breakfast served at the rooftop was non-greasy and appetizing. You can choose anything from the menu even if already paid for with the room.

What we did not like

Although it wasn’t an issue for us, the staff speaks very little English and it can get difficult if you need help when the owners are not around.
The stairs are huge and steep which can be difficult to climb and risky for old persons or young kids.
They do not have room service. We would have loved to sit in the comfort of our rooms with a beer or even a hot cup of chai.
Rooms in heritage style

Kankara Haveli is ideal for

Couples
Perfect for a romantic stay and if looking for privacy.

Rates and details for Kankarwa Haveli

The hotel is moderately priced and the room rates start from INR 3,250 for a partial lake facing room. Lakefront suites are INR 5,000+
Contact Person: Mr Janardan Singh and Mr Divyarishi
Website: http://www.kankarwahaveli.com/
For TripAdvisor Reviews of Kankarwa Haveli: Click here

To plan your thoughtful and economical trip across Rajasthan, contact us.

Spic and span suite at Kankarwa Haveli

If you need our assistance in planning your trip to this beautiful region, do get in touch with us. We would be happy to help you plan a customized trip according to your need!

Luxury Redefined: India’s Top Hotel Picks

Jaipur from our point of view

Posted on November 8, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

A visit to Jaipur offers a lot, such as bustling markets, a stunning Fort, and amazing bars. If you are a movie lover, I would also suggest visiting the famous cinema, Raj Mandir, to get a taste of Bollywood action. My family and I liked the city a great deal and it makes for the perfect holiday destination. One of the best places to visit in Jaipur is the Amber Fort as it was a grand infrastructure surrounded by such a beautiful landscape. Alongside this, the city has many great sights for you to explore and is a holiday you will never forget.

Hawa Mahal

The best places to visit in Jaipur

The Pink City

Jaipur is known as the Pink City because of the terracotta pink colour scheme that dominates the area. This adds to the wonder, placing you in a fantasy as you wander around, gazing up at the historical architecture. We arrived at 09:00 hrs in the Pink City. At this time everything was still closed at as the markets do not open this “early in the morning”. But this suited me well as I wasn’t in the mood for shopping, or rather negotiating.

Jaipur City Palace

The City Palace is definitely one of the best places to visit in Jaipur. It is a beautiful palace with a fascinating museum and the most interesting historical exhibitions I have ever seen. There is a room where artists offer their traditional craftwork for you to view. I was impressed with the various handmade products like woodwork, carpets, jewellery and paintings. The artists showed us how they make their products and we had an interesting conversation with them about their work.

Jantar Mantar

Completed in 1734, the Jantar Mantar is one to visit if you are interested in astrology and physics. It is located near the City Palace and features the largest sundial in the world. Make sure you get a guide so that you have someone with the right knowledge to explain all the different instruments to you.

Hawa Mahal – Palace of Wind

Hawa Mahal is a beautiful site, especially when the fountains are turned on. When David and I were there the biggest challenges for me was the attention I got for being a white woman. Particularly in the tower, there is little space for everybody to fit through. A school class of 16-year-old boys followed us up the tower so it was quite crowded. I was bothered a little by the students trying to take pictures with me so make sure that you are prepared that you may be hassled. Apart from this, it was a very enjoyable experience to wander around this romantic, historic monument.

Amber Fort

Amber Fort is an awesome sight and one of the best places to visit in Jaipur, I highly recommend it! We hired a guide to show us around and were very happy to have done so because of how gigantic the Fort was. It also has a grand history! We were given detailed information that we would not have learned otherwise.

Jaigarh Fort

If you are an animal lover then I suggest you visit Jaigarh Fort. Here you have the chance to see an amazing group of monkeys that will come up close to you. The Fort itself was not really impressive, in my opinion, but the view is wonderful.

Nahargarh Fort

At Nahargarh Fort, you have the best view of Jaipur! It even has a restaurant from where you can perfectly see the capital of Rajasthan. There was such a beautiful view as we enjoyed the sunset with a kingfisher. I highly recommend you to do the same. Arrange in advance for a rickshaw to bring you back down the hill as it is difficult to find anybody once you are up there.

Jal Mahal – Water Palace

The water palace is a wonderful site to see. It is located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake and is a monument of 17^th Century architecture. You cannot enter the palace, but from across the lake, you get a lovely view of the sight. It is worth a quick stop to gaze at the building, particularly in the evening.

Visiting Rajasthan? Checkout our Full List of Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Learn More: Twenty Must-Visit Places in North India

Amber Fort

Accommodation in Jaipur

Zostel

Our accommodation was the Zostel, the first hostel chain in India. I loved my stay here. You have the chance to meet a lot of people from all over the world. The facilities are really nice and you can sit together on the terrace to get a view of the scurrying streets around you. Through the Zostel, we met a lot of people who we later travelled with. I would especially recommend this hostel to those travelling alone.

Advice on other hotels in the area can be found here.

The beautiful Jal Mahal in Jaipur stands in the backdrop of Aravalis

Jaipur food and drink

If you would like a taste of Jaipur food then consider these recommendations. They offer a great selection of local and international food for you to try.

LMB – Vegetarian Restaurant

Definitely worth a visit! The restaurant is in the Pink City and is famous for its desserts. I believe there is no wrong order at LMB, but the best was for sure the Kulfi, which was incredibly delicious! Overall the restaurant offers a great selection of vegetarian Jaipur food.

Niro’s – Indian Restaurant

Niro’s is quite expensive but also very good quality! David ate a fish in creamy sauce with spinach and I ate Chicken Hong Kong, which was also very tasty.

C’est Bon – Italian Restaurant

We went with some Indian friends to this restaurant. It was the best pasta I have ever had in India and was mixed with delicious ham and cheese. There was a great selection of desserts to choose from. Try the cheesecake, it was lovely!

100% Rocks – Bar and Restaurant

Nice location for going out on a Saturday night. They have great cocktails and the people are very welcoming and easy to get along with. The most important thing is: there are a lot of nice people to meet at the weekend.

Rajasthani Thali!

Our Stay at Chandra Niwas Homestay Udaipur

Posted on November 7, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

We chose Chandra Niwas as our first homestay whilst in Udaipur and weren’t we glad! After a long train journey from Mumbai, a heartfelt welcome at a very warm home is just what we needed. We instantly hit it off with Samvit and our trip across Rajasthan began on a high note!

Dr. Samvit Audichya runs Chandra Niwas homestay (named after his mother Chandra and Niwas meaning abode). He is also a philanthropist and is the founder of Daan Foundation, an initiative that helps in the development and education of rural children. We visited the learning centre and interacted with the kids who were engrossed in playing Uno and Carrom. Visiting the villages lets you into an entirely different Udaipur. If you would like to be involved and contribute to a social cause, you can either participate in the cultural exchange programme that Samvit organises or be a volunteer at the learning centre.

The most homely place to stay in Udaipur – Chandra Niwas Homestay (Picture Credit)

What we love about Chandra Niwas Homestay

*Read as ‘Absolute Highlights’

His collection of antiques! I just couldn’t stop admiring them. Most of them are old woodworks from old temples/forts modified into door panels, centre tables, jewellery boxes. Beautiful!
There is nothing fancy or over the top. It is a simple homestay with a lot of heart.
Samvit, himself! The ultimate chai-lover is the life of the place and such a great host.
You get to meet and hang out with other travellers.

Lovely artifacts at Chandra Niwas Homestay

What we like about Chandra Niwas Homestay

Read as the ‘Nice things about this place’

The rooms and bathrooms are very clean. All the basic requirements are available in each room.
The lovely breakfast served in the common area and the fact that you can have as many cups of chai as you please.
The homestay is just a rickshaw ride away from the main attractions of Udaipur.

Neat and Clean homely rooms (Photo Credit – Chandra Niwas Homestay)

What we did not like

You may want to be aware of these points

I had absolutely no complaints and definitely looking forward to another visit. But do bear in mind to keep your sightseeing schedule in check because if not, then you will only end up having long chats over pyaaz ki kachori (onion kachori) and chai with Samvit!
Being away from the city, you cannot sit on the rooftop and gaze at the glistening lake or the lit up city palace. But, then neither will you see so many other tourists

Cooking with Samvit (Photo Credit – Chandra Niwas Homestay)

Chandra Niwas is Ideal for

Backpackers
Single travellers
A long stay in Udaipur
Guests interested in visiting Samvit’s NGO and education centre

Daan Foundation (Photo Credit – Chandra Niwas Homestay)

Rates for Chandra Niwas

The room prices during season start from INR 1,500 including breakfast.
To Book – Contact Person: Samvit Audichya
Website: http://www.chandraniwas.com/
Daan Foundation: http://www.daanfoundation.org/
Reviews on TripAdvisor of Chandra Niwas: Click here

To plan a unique and economical trip across Rajasthan, contact us.

A day of travel, food and spirituality in Amritsar (India)

Posted on November 3, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

This weekend I went to Amritsar to do some research for our India Someday clients. The religious city in Punjab is famous for three things – The Golden Temple, delicious Amritsar food, and the Wagah Border. After a lot of exploring (and a lot of eating!), we’ve concluded that this is definitely one city you do not want to miss!

Golden Temple lit up in the evening

Amritsar Food

Amritsar is a food lover’s paradise. From the moment you wake up, the amount of Amritsar food you will manage to eat is a revelation. Choose between aloo puris (potato curry served with deep fried Indian bread stuffed with cottage cheese), or chole puri (the same bread served with spicy lentils) for breakfast. Kanha Sweets or Munim di Hatti at Lawrence Road are the best places to try these.

For lunch I suggest you pay a visit to the Golden Temple Langar. Or try visiting Kulcha Land where for just INR 50 -100 they serve great stuffed kulchas and lassi. If you have room left for dinner head to Bharwan ka Dhaba or Kesar ka Dhaba, for some rajma (red beans) and rice, or tandoori roti and veggies. If you have not noticed yes there is a slight bias, I am vegetarian.

North Indian food in general is a little heavy on the stomach, but eating Amritsar food is so much fun you cannot stop. Every corner you go to or every street you visit you will always find something being cooked. From aloo tikkis to fresh fruit juice, it’s all so tasty and delicious that I cannot stop raving about it.

There is lots of butter, lots of fatty foods and loads of proteins and lentils. The few days you’re there, I would suggest throwing any diet out of the window.

Excluding the taste, the best part of eating in Punjab is the people. Punjabis are a jolly bunch of people who love only one other thing more than eating – feeding someone else. So enjoy your meals hot and served with lots of love and smiles.

You can view some of our two week travel routes across North India, we can include a trip to Amritsar in your trip.

Amritsar food will always leave you craving for more

The Golden Temple

The serenity and the beauty of the Golden Temple is mesmerising. People often compare visiting this temple to visiting the Taj Mahal. I can guarantee that it is equally as spectacular, probably even more so. Experience continuous spiritual chanting, the stillness of the water, and the thousands of people providing service for nothing in return.

The ornate beauty of the Golden Temple itself makes your visit here truly special. I would recommend also signing up and helping to cook in the Langar. The temple itself has a long line upon entry no matter what time of the day you visit.

A Langar is found in every single Gurudwara or Sikh Temple and has an element of religious belief. It is a 24 hour open kitchen. The food is free to all guests without any discrimination. You can donate a small sum of course and you should!

The entire kitchen is run by volunteers who work in shifts. Anyone can volunteer and be a part of this team. The food is healthy and nutritious and filled with love.

You should visit the Golden Temple in the morning or at night when the religious book is taken back into safe keeping. It happens around 2200 hrs.

The beautiful Golden Temple at a distance

Wagah Border: India’s patriotic pilgrimage

Palpable in the air of Amritsar is the feeling of patriotism invoked when you visit Jallianwala Bagh or the Wagah Border.

As sad and haunting as the tragedy of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre is, the Wagah Border is on the other end of the spectrum. Yet both are connected by a heavy sense of history and Indian strength. The border is the only entry point between India and Pakistan.

Every evening you can witness a fun and competitive beating retreat, or the ‘raising/ lowering of flags’, ceremony. The passion with which the soldiers fulfil this duty is incredible. Shouting, singing, the thumping of the feet, drums, dancing and trying to outshine the other side makes for a surreal experience.

Displays of patriotism at the Wagah Border

Accommodation

The stay in this city is not very expensive. Lower range budget hotels like Akaal Residency are clean and good value for money. And you even have a few unique options like Virasat Haveli.

But here we would recommend staying at a higher end property. Reason being, as you do want to go back to an empty shell after the hustle and bustle of the narrow streets. My pick would be a stay at the Hyatt in Amritsar – they have nice cosy rooms and the service is impeccable.

Overall, Amritsar is a destination you should visit if travelling to India. The Golden Temple, Amritsar food, and the patriotism and general spirituality of the area make for a warm and welcome stay. If you need help in seeing how you can fit Amritsar into your itinerary, let us know and we at India Someday can help you plan your trip.

Budget Backpacking Tour in North India

Posted on October 30, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

backpacking in north india: rajasthan – Agra – delhi

Here we have drafted a 14 to 16 day backpacking tour in North India. In this trip, you’ll travel across Rajasthan, stopping at the magical desert town of Jaisalmer, the beautiful blue town of Jodhpur, Udaipur the city of lakes, the spiritual and religious haven Pushkar and more.

If you’d like to go on a similar route but need help optimizing your time and money, get in touch with us and we’ll help plan your trip perfect for you.

Leather shopping (Photo Credit – Suket Dedhia from Pixabay)

the Route

Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Pushkar – Delhi

Modes of transport for North India budget tour

Because your primary transport will be trains, this tour is quite economic. Trains are fast, dependable and a great way to experience North India and interact with the locals.

Where will you stay?

A mix of hostels (always safe, fun, and very social), homestays and small guest houses. In Jaisalmer, you’ll be able to camp in the desert. The varied mix of accommodation ensures your trip is budget friendly whilst also giving you the full experience.

Cost of the tour

The cost of the tour would approximately be GBP 460 per person depending on the following:

What time of the year you are travelling
Preference to always travel by A/C train (or sleeper class is fine)
If you like having a private room at all times (or dorms are perfect)
Travelling alone or a couple/group

Read Further: Evaluating the Cost of a Trip to India

The cost includes

Overnight stay throughout your trip
All train tickets
Taxi and driver between cities when the train is not possible
India Someday planning and bookings fees
All taxes

Let us know how many travellers you would be and your wish list and we will help you plan your trip.

Sunset by the ocean

Highlights of travelling to North India

It is often said that India is not a holiday, but an experience. Travelling across North India will leave you with memories of a lifetime. Highlights of your India experience will vary from traveller to traveller, but here are some highlights that you can look forward to for this backpacking tour in North India – Rajasthan, Agra and Delhi.

1. The awe-inspiring New Delhi

New Delhi can be overwhelming but it’s definitely worth it. New Delhi has an incredibly rich history, interesting architecture, and great food (and we mean it). Expect to see a mix of charm and bustle in Old Delhi and glistening manicured lawns in New Delhi. Getting around can be surprisingly easy with the new amazing metro system.

Click here to read impressions of New Delhi as experienced by young travellers from Austria.

Red Fort

2. Endless Desert and its Golden City

Jaisalmer is truly incredible, but the effort to get there makes it all the more satisfying. You’ll take an overnight train from Jaipur to reach Jaisalmer. The old city is beautiful, crafted in stone, sand and rock. Nicknamed the ‘Golden City,’ it’s by the edge of the Thar Desert where you’ll spend a night after witnessing the stunning sunset.

Camel Safari in Jaisalmer

3. Riding the Indian Trains

Trains in India are a fascinating experience. There’s a distinct buzz of energy at the stations and you get lovely chai while on board. You get to see Indian families and often interact with them. Above all, you’ll see beautiful views of the countryside and little villages.

Trains are a great way to see the countryside if travelling by day, and by night, a great way to meet new people

4. Mouth-watering North Indian food

For a foodie, India is the ultimate paradise. Treat yourself to amazing naan, curry, lassi, Indian sweets and much more. Home cooked food is always better, so the homestays will have amazing food. Do remember, the food can get a little on the spicy side, so try to prepare yourself for that!

Explore More: Seizing the Right Time for India Exploration

North Indian Thali, a platter with different curries (Photo Credit – NoDurians)

5. Meet locals and fellow travellers

The hostels and hotels will allow you to meet a variety of interesting travellers along your backpacking tour in Rajasthan. This is always a plus, as you’ll make new friends and even stay with local families and soak in their traditions and culture.

You’ll find yourself meeting so many nice and helpful people along the way

6. The Taj Mahal

You would be visiting the Taj Mahal. Do not miss the Agra Fort or the Baby Taj while you are in Agra. Click here to read impressions of Agra as experienced by your young travellers from Austria.

Beautiful sights of the Taj Mahal

7. Udaipur – The Romantic Lake city

One of your last stops will be at the beautiful lake city of Udaipur in all its magnificence.

Learn More: Twenty Must-Visit Places in North India

Lake Pichola Udaipur

This tour can be customized to the number of days you are looking at travelling or specific places you’d like to see. In fact, we can help you plan trips to anywhere in India, irrespective of your budget. For more information about backpacking in North India, and planning your trip to India, feel free to get in touch with us! Don’t forget, solo travellers get a 20% discount on our fees!

Udaipur stay in Lake view v/s Non Lake view room

Posted on October 27, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

Udaipur is famously known as the ‘City of Lakes’ and it would seem like a moot point to even have this discussion.

The Majestic City Palace of Udaipur sits on the banks of Lake Pichola

A lovely homestay in Udaipur

On my last visit to Udaipur, I decided to check for myself the hoopla over the ‘lake view’. On our first day, we decided to stay in a homestay and chose Chandra Niwas. Chandra Niwas is on the other side of the old city. Samvit who owns and runs Chandra Niwas was there at the gate to greet us. He took us out for chai and samosa, we chatted for hours on end. We also met another traveller who was staying there and ended up spending the whole time in Udaipur together. It definitely didn’t feel like we were in a hotel or a stranger’s house, it felt like home! We nearly decided to stay there for the other two days because we were so at ease and comfortable at Chandra Niwas.

Chandra Niwas exudes a warm homely feeling

The Lake view experience in Udaipur!

The next day we checked into Kankarwa Haveli, where we were upgraded to a Lake-front Suite. We entered our room and I instantly fell in love with it! It all suddenly made sense. Being in Udaipur, right in the middle of all the action and being in a room that overlooks the flowing water glistening like gold under the rays of the sun…absolutely magical Udaipur was our first stop but it usually is the last destination when you start your trip from Delhi and travel across North India. Rajasthan is mostly deserts and forts and monuments but Udaipur at the end is like finding an oasis in the desert.

Not many hotels have rooms which offer a clear unparalleled view of the lake but nearly every hotel in the Lal Ghat area has a roof-top restaurant and having a meal in one is a definite must. Our favourite roof-top restaurants were Jagat Niwas and Zostel; for the view and for the lip-smacking food too.

The serene view of Lake Pichola from our suite in Kankarwa Haveli

A boutique hotel in Udaipur away from the city

The next day we went to Fateh Garh. Fateh Garh is located 7 kms away from the city perched on a hilltop commanding views of the city below. The Aravalli mountain ranges go as far as the eye can see. At Fateh Garh, it feels like you are in a completely different zone. Away from the crowd, in complete serenity, it is just you and the amazing view around you. The mountains beckon!

Coming back to the point of discussion, having a room with a lake-view would be the highlight of your stay. If you are on a romantic holiday then without a doubt choose a hotel with the lake view. Travelling alone; go for a homestay and if you are the type who likes staying away from the crowd, then a place like Fateh Garh is for you. Spend more than two nights in Udaipur and you can split your stay. They are no pros and cons to either, it is just about choosing between different experiences.

Embrace Opulence: India’s Luxury Accommodations

We plan trips across all budgets. So just get in touch with us if you are interested in a tour similar to the one described in this blog.

Our Agra Impressions

Posted on October 17, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

Marlene and David’s Agra Impressions! – Written by Marlene Hofstatter. Follow their trip to Agra, their advice on what food to eat, where to stay and the various activities to try.

Here is also a practical guide for getting around Agra to help you plan your trip!

Agra is Impressive, Baby Taj

On Finally Viewing the Taj Mahal

On the second day of our trip to Agra, we got up early to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise. After a long check-in watching the monkeys steal chips from the tourists, we finally got in. Unfortunately, the sunrise was not that impressive because it was very foggy in the morning.

The Taj itself looked exactly like the innumerable pictures which I have seen of it. And I can’t figure out what I should think about the most famous historical sight of India. Was it nice? Yes of course, but to be honest, I wasn’t overwhelmed. The marble is beautiful, so is the whiteness, also the full details of the pietra dura technique (famous stonework in the area). Still, during our trip to Agra, it seems that our expectations were too high and the reason could be that we didn’t have the amazing history in mind. What I definitely know now: I would recommend getting a guide for the Taj, even when you know the background of it to reflect on the incredible history.

The interesting point of the Taj for me was that it seemed always so far away, not more surreal.

View of Taj Mahal (Photo Credit – neverbutterfly)

The delightful Red Fort

In our trip to Agra, we visited other monuments too. I highly recommend the Red Fort! It’s incredibly beautiful, and David and I liked it even more than the Taj Mahal. You can walk through the buildings, palaces and temples. Our impressions were that it was far better than the Red Fort in Delhi where we were not allowed to enter most of the facilities. In the Agra Red Fort, you can walk through history, which I really appreciated. You even have an awesome view of the Taj. Unfortunately, there are also some parts of the Red Fort closed for tourist which belong to the military. Nonetheless, our Agra impressions were heightened by visiting this attraction.

Great Fort to explore, lovely red stone and distant views of Taj Mahal

Our fantastic Rickshaw driver

At the beginning of our trip to Agra, we had the luck of meeting a very friendly and honest rickshaw driver at the pre-paid rickshaw stand. He struggled with other drivers who wanted to cheat us. His name is Manish, he talked a lot with us, joked and gave us very interesting information about Agra during the drive to the hotel. He even showed us a notebook with recommendations from travellers about him and his daily trips in many different languages. Of course, he offered us a daily tour throughout Agra. At first, we were not sure if we should do the daily tour, but we didn’t regret it.

He showed us the most important sights in Agra and craftsmen who made silver jewellery, textiles and also who worked with the interesting marble art pietra dura. We were never pressured into buying something and Manish even allowed David to drive his rickshaw one time.

David (pretend) riding our Rickshaw, tours around Agra

Touts and sellers in Agra

There are a lot of people who want to sell you things, and when I say things, I mean every kind of thing! We often heard in a loud voice: “Postcards, chai, water!”, and sometimes after that in a lower voice “ganja, ecstasy, speed, ketamine!” One of our answers was: “We are already happy, thanks.”

Maybe because we were used to the irritating sellers, we didn’t get very bothered by them. We often just ignored them, didn’t look at them, and went ahead. From time to time we even made jokes with them. You just have to say in a very insistent voice: “No!” or “No, thanks!”

Marble Shop (Photo Credit – Juggadery)

Places to eat in Agra

Our trip to Agra was not complete without tasting some very delicious Indian food offered at these suggested restaurants.

Hotel Sheela Restaurant

We had breakfast in our hotel. The menu is big, good for breakfast and the coffee is also very nice! The peaceful and beautiful atmosphere is framed by the garden.

Lakshmi Vilas: South Indian Food

It’s a cheap Indian restaurant with awesome food.

Saniya Palace Hotel: Rooftop restaurant

The view from the rooftop restaurant was okay, you can see the Taj from there but it was very dark in the evening. Nevertheless it was fine to eat there and to enjoy the romantic atmosphere!

Our Accommodation on our Agra trip: Hotel Sheela

The hotel where we stayed was near the Taj Mahal and in the heart of Agra. When you enter the Hotel Sheela you go directly from a hectic street life to a more peaceful garden facility where you also can visit the charming restaurant. The room is okay and our beds were clean enough. Generally we were happy with the quality of the hotel!

On our trip to Agra, we chose to stay at the Hotel Sheela (Photo Credit – PTWO)

Click on Plan Your Trip for your ideal itinerary.

Our Rishikesh Experience

Posted on October 10, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is a beautiful small city in the mountains. It is located at the foothills of the Himalayas in Northern India. Approximately 100,000 inhabitants live in this city. The streets are very crowded but only a few cars can be seen.

The vehicles are honking all the time, though, which is a bit annoying. It’s famous for its yoga and meditation education. The city is full of tourists who look for spiritual satisfaction, pilgrims, and sadhus (holy ascetic Hinduism men).

Here is a list of some of the things we did on our trip to Rishikesh.

A blog from David Schidl.

Marlene and myself ready for our Rishikesh adventure

Rafting on the Ganges

Our half-day rafting trip was a great experience. We (6 Indians, Marlene, and me) went at about 10:00 hrs in the car and approximately 20-30 minutes down the street next to the river. After short instructions on how to use the paddle, we started our trip to the rafts.

It was great to row through big waves. We made a short break at a cliff where we had the option to jump into the water (approximately 5 meters). During the boat trip, we were also swimming in the Ganga when there was no strong current.

Another city that has the divine Ganga flowing through the city is Varanasi. Another interesting city that can be covered after Rishikesh.

Shopping in Rishikesh

The shopping mile after the Lakshman Jhula Bridge is really nice and you can get a lot of gifts, for example, handcrafts, bags, clothes, cards, and many more presents.

If you are lucky you can take some pictures with monkeys. It is probably the most famous attraction in Rishikesh when you google images of the place, so get your cameras ready.

The Lakshman Jhula Bridge (Photo Credit – Anandamoy Chatterji)

Trekking & Waterfalls

Me taking a dip in a natural pool during our rafting trip

Our trekking trip was organized by the hotel. We woke up at 04:15 hrs and it took us and the guide about 1 hour to get to the Kunjaa Puri (height 4050 ft). It is about 15 kilometers away from Rishikesh.

There was a small, beautiful temple where you could watch the sunrise. Unfortunately, it was very foggy so the view was not the best. When you have a good view you can also see the Himalayas. After breakfast, we walked down the mountain and saw incredible rice fields and a beautiful waterfall called Neer-Ghar-waterfall.

We stayed there for about half an hour and we enjoyed a swim in the waterfall. If you are brave you can also climb up about 20 meters next to the waterfall and swim there.

Splashing around in the Neer Ghar waterfall (Photo Credit: Tripadvisor)

Our accommodation, Divine Ganga Cottage

The hotel, Divine Ganga Cottage, is surrounded by other houses and rice fields. You have a great view of the Ganga from the terrace. The staff is very friendly and helpful. They offer taxi services, rafting, trekking, spa/massage treatment, ayurvedic doctor consultation, yoga, wildlife safaris, bungee jumping, and of course, laundry.

On the terrace, you can enjoy different dishes and drinks from 07:00 hrs to 22:00 hrs. Marlene had a stress release head and body massage (Mardanam -1 hour) which she enjoyed a lot. Our room was quite nice including a TV, a little desk, a shower, and a western toilet. Wi-Fi is also available.

If you really enjoy staying with the locals, here is a list of the best homestays in North India.

The Rooftop of Divine Ganga Cottage

Places to eat in Rishikesh

Little Buddha Café

On our first day in Rishikesh, Marlene and I went to the Little Buddha Café. This restaurant looks like a treehouse and you find a lot of alternative people in this location. Marlene ordered a pizza and I got a plate of steamed vegetables. Both tasted bland. But the fruit and the mango lassi were delicious and fresh.

Devraj Coffee Corner

This little nice German bakery is next to the Lakshman Jhula Bridge. You have a nice view of the Ganga terrace. The coffee is okay. Our dessert, an apple flambé, was delicious. The breakfast is really good; they offer croissants, muesli, porridge and more.

Bhandari Restaurant

This small restaurant near the Lakshman Jhula is a restaurant with an open kitchen where you can see how they prepare the meals. You get South Indian food at a very cheap price. The meals are okay and a bit spicy.

Pyramid Café

This little restaurant is not very easy to find because it is not located on the main street. There we enjoyed the best food in Rishikesh. The vegetables are from their own organic garden and the drinks and the meals are delicious. They offer Indian, Mexican, Israeli, and Italian food. You can sit on cushions in a pyramid-shaped tent and the staff is really friendly.

Madras Café

It took us 45 minutes to come to this small, nice restaurant. It is near the second bridge called Ram Jhula. The café offers various great creamy lassis and the desserts are delicious. The staff is very friendly.

A beautiful selection of veggies and spices to feast upon (Photo Credit – Pyramid Café)

We hope that David Schidl’s experience in Rishikesh motivates you to take a trip to this beautiful town. You can know more by reading this blog of the things to do here for wider options. Get in touch with us and let’s start planning!

Ten Adventure Activities in India

Posted on October 8, 2014May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

Considering looking into adventure sports in India? In a land of culture and creations, travel and tradition, have you done enough to feel your pulse racing? Join a trek, scuba dive off the coast, ski in the mountains, or take part in various water sports. Whatever adventure activities you fancy, India has it all!

Here’s rounding up in a beat, 10 adventure activities in India that we at India Someday recommend.

Read our top 10 adventure activities in India

1. Chadar Walk in Leh

If searching for adventure activities in India, then consider hiking across the beautiful Himalayas. Chadar hike in Leh is one unique trek located in Jammu and Kashmir. The trek connects villages to Chilling and Zanskar during the months when the mountains are snowy and too treacherous to cross. So if you are a lover of hiking, it’s time you make it a little extreme.

Take the excursion along the frozen Zanskar River, like locals have to during the winter months. Remember to bring warm clothes and heavy woollens with you as temperatures can get as low as -20°C! At an altitude of more than 10,000 ft and on a blanket of ice, you will witness unusual scenery, weather conditions, campsites and a walk to remember. The view of the Himalayan peaks on this nine-day trek is breath-taking!

Where Two Rivers Merge – Zanskar (Picture Credit: ABP Live- ABP News)

2. Heli-skiing in Gulmarg

The Himalayas are mighty and Kashmir is pristine. What can be more exciting than gliding down the snowy slopes here? Untouched terrain, remote slopes…this is an exceptional site to indulge in some serious skiing! Why not visit one of the most popular destinations for Heli-skiing in the world? Go to Gulmarg where you’ll fly to the top in a helicopter and slither down the mountains in an unimaginable frenzy!

Heli-Skiing (Photo Credit – Roderick Eime)

3. A Trek in Uttaranchal

This state is an absolute paradise for adventure sports in India! There are vast amount of treks on offer such as from Auden Col to Bali Pass, some of the most popular hikes. Accordingly, the mountains and valleys here offer breathtaking, enthralling trekking opportunities. Don’t let go of any chance to rush to the Himalayas and spend some time trekking through the panoramic beauty and de-stress in some of the most blessed hill stations in India.

Garhwal mountains (Photo Credit – Stefanos Nikologianis)

4. River Rafting in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is known for being a spiritually refreshing area in India, but it has further become an unmissable adventure destination in India. Rafting down the voluminous white waters of the meandering Ganges and its tributaries give you a rush of adrenalin like nothing else. Whether amateur or seasoned, the speedy rapids around Rishikesh will not let you down!

White water rafting (Picture Credit: The Travel Boat)

5. Bungee jump in Rishikesh

For an exhilarating chance at an adventure sport in India, gather your guts and jump down Mohan Chhati in Rishikesh, (harnessed of course). With all safety standards met, you will have a plunge in the valley and a rush you will never get over! Time to take the leap!

Rishikesh is considered the highest bungee jumping with a height of 83 meters (Picture Credit: Rudra Adventures)

6. Mountaineering in Sikkim

Sikkim can be dramatic with its rugged mountains, deep valleys, rivers, and waterfalls. It is also one of the best locations to release the spirit of mountaineering inside you! The mountains are known for their steep altitude and extreme adventure. Go for a climb in Sikkim, it’s sure to leave you high, among other effects!

There are some great mountaineering opportunities in India

7. Zip-lining in Rajasthan

Considering a variety of adventure activities in India? Become a flying fox as you zip down steel lines. Let gravity take care of everything as you zoom across lines, harnessed to safety and lost in awe. See Rajasthan like you never have before in its adventurous game, and it’s time you played it! Zip-line at Mehrangarh Fort in Alwar, Jodhpur, or Neemrana Fort is an adventure you won’t forget.

Zipline in Mehrangarh Fort (Picture Credit: Maharajas’ Express)

8. Skydiving in Dhana

For one of the most visually stunning adventure activities in India, consider skydiving. We suggest jumping out of a plane in Dhana, Madhya Pradesh. If you are an adventurer at heart, you just need a little push and a free fall like never before. With a little training here, you’ll experience a thrill that won’t leave you!

Sky-diving is considered as an extreme sport that takes a lot of courage and prior training

9. Scuba dive in the Andamans

There’s a world underwater waiting to be explored, and this is one of the best adventure activities in India to try; you just can’t stay away from it! Fly to the Andaman Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal just east of India and Sri Lanka, and discover an island paradise. The Andamans offer some of the best scuba diving locations in India. Dive into these worlds of stunning marine life, emerald waters, coral reefs, and depths beyond your reach. You may even spot turtles! Be assured you’ll be left captivated by this experience.

Snorkelling in Andaman waters

10. Kite surfing in Rameshwaram

Professional or first-timer, you have to give yourself up to the winds in Rameshwaram. This is one of the perfect adventure sports in India if you are looking for a thrill! Let them sweep the kite as you glide over the waves on your surfboard. Also, kiteboarding is the best mix of surfing, paragliding and wakeboarding and the waters at Rameshwaram are as good as it can get! Here’s one sure-shot adventure activity you shouldn’t miss.

Kite Surfing in Goa

Once you fill your bucket list with these adventure activities in India, we at India Someday will gladly help you with everything you need to tick them off. And once you tick them off, try them again! One can never have enough adventures in India!

Discover More: Immerse in India’s Vibrant Activity Scene